Cincinnati Parent // September 2010

Mission Possible: Private Schools Captivating Students with Unique Programs

SEPTEMBER 2010 * CINCINNATIPARENT.com

* Commentary & Parenting

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eDITOR’s NOTE: We’re Working for You, Cincinnati!

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DEAR TEACHER: Setting a Good Foundation, Reading to Middle Schoolers and Learning Numbers 12

Cooking Up a recipe for healthy living

* NEWS & SHOPPING

NEWS YOU CAN USE: Announcements, Sales, Presentations, Freebies & More 06

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* Around Town

PROFILE: Getting to Know the SAT

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arts & enrichment: Kicking Up Confidence

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* HEALTH & WELLNESS

Pediatric health: Be Prepared for Flu Season

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special needs awareness: Gauging an IEP’s Effectiveness

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* RESOURCES

arts & enrichment guide

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field trip directory

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Fall FUn Guide

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Childcare & education directory

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open house guide

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Calendar

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Classifieds

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fun & wacky calendar

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FANTastic field trips

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mission possible: Captivating students

Ask the Staff:

What did you want to be when you grew up?

When I was young, I wanted to be a teacher!

Child l a n o i t E x ce p

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A teacher

An astronaut

K at i e Pfier

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KARA BLU

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An artist

aN

expert tips for creating good ieps for children with autism

An artist

M

ROXANN

A teacher

A ballerina, of course!

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ERIN TUL

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EY

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h e at h e r

I wanted to be the next Judy Blume!

ski

A teacher

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jennica za

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KAREN RING

co mmentary & parentin g

Publisher & President of Sales & Business Development Mary Wynne Cox publisher@cincinnatiparent.com

Associate Publisher & Editor-in-Chief Lynette Rowland editor@cincinnatiparent.com

Art Direction & DESIGN Heather Lipe

heather@cincinnatiparent.com

director of MARKETING & business development Katie Pfierman katie@cincinnatiparent.com

SALES AND Business Development Jennica Zalewski jennica@cincinnatiparent.com

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Kara Blum kara@cincinnatiparent.com

Public Relations and Advertising Coordinator Erin Tulley erin@cincinnatiparent.com

ACCOUNTANT Roxanne Burns

roxanne@cincinnatiparent.com

OFFICE MANAGER Karen Ring

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Editor’s Note

We’re Working For You, Cincinnati!

What We’re Covering and What’s Going On September in Cincinnati signals the beginning of fall, festivals and fantastic events for the whole family—or just for you and your partner. Here’s what you’ll find in this issue…

e-mail editor@cincinnatiparent. com and I will make it my mission to help get the answers you’re looking for.

THE REST: We’re also covering the importance of IEPs (individual

FIELD TRIPS: I’d venture to say education plans) for children with

that every one of you remember your favorite field trip growing up.

Mine had to be horseback riding, OBESITY: Obesity is an epidemic factory tours and maybe even the of grave proportions, so much so circus. Times have changed and that we are shortening the lifespan the options for education outside of our children (and ourselves) by of the classroom are endless. From decades. In our feature “Cooking farms and museums to factories up a Recipe for Healthy Living,” and more, you’ll find some of the we spoke with local specialists most interesting field trips right and doctors about ways you can in your own state. Who knows, introduce fresh foods and exercise you might learn a thing or two, into the lives of your children as well. (and yours, too). It might seem difficult to get the wheels turning, PRIVATE SCHOOLS: In but think about all of the things our feature “Mission Possible: that you and your children have Captivating Students,” we went to accomplish in life—is it really undercover to f ind some of the worth losing it over junk food or most intriguing options available video games? I hope we’ll hear a at local private schools—what we resounding NO! found was incredible. Theatrical

In This Issue

Tell us what your biggest concerns are with feeding the family healthy meals and snacks, curbing the use of electronics or just getting off the couch and exercising. If we can’t find an answer for you, chances are that we can find someone else out there who can. It takes a village and we’re here to help make your journey easier. Just

available, there are def initely options worth looking into.

per for mance for youngsters, karate, ballet and tap, integrated second languages, fencing, mock historical events and even laptop programs are available at some of the top schools in the TriState area. Private education has more to offer than you might know about, so we did a little digging to show you. And with scholarships and support

special needs, how SAT testing has changed, myths about food, how martial arts is good for mind and body, education questions from teachers and much more.

What’s

Going

On?

Of course, you’ll want to know what’s going on in September, and we have you covered. Why not visit the UniverSoul Circus starting on September 3rd at Jordon Crossing? Is your family full of wrestling fans? Then you’ll want to visit the US Bank Arena on September 13th for the WWE presents Monday Night Raw event. Hey mom or dad, are you an Aerosmith fan? Visit the Riverbend Music Center on September 2nd for a concert from the legends themselves. Of course, staples to any close to a summer include a trip to a Cincinnati Reds game on September 10th. If your teen is a fan (or maybe you are, too), Kings of Leon will be at Riverbend Music Center on September 4th. If you have little ones who adore Thomas the Train, then you won’t want to miss Day Out with Thomas on September

10, 11, 12 and 17 at Lebanon Mason Monroe Railroad. If you and the hubby want to put on your dancing shoes, why not head out to Salsa Wednesdays at Mynt Martini on September 1-2 at 8 p.m.? If music is your thing, head out to the Midpoint Music Festival September 23-25 for dozens of great local and nationwide acts.

This is just a handful of the hundreds of fantastic events going on right here in Cincinnati. Make sure you check out our Calendar of Events in this month’s issue, sign up for our e-newsletter for to-your-inbox events at www. cincinnatiparent.com or peruse our up-to-date calendar on our Web site.

I’d love to read your letters, event ideas, editorial suggestions and questions for our experts. Just send your emails to editor@ cincinnatiparent.com today!

Have a fantastic September, Cincinnati!

-Lynet te Rowland Editor-in-Chief

karen@cincinnatiparent.com

ON THE COVER Kayla Bell and Chef Dwight Simmons from Kiss Z Cook. Information on classes, cafe and meals to go at www.kisszcook.com COVER PHOTOGRAPHY Sara Morris COVER GIRL OUTFIT Aeromax Toys available at www.aeromaxtoys.com.

Cincinnati Parent 9435 Waterstone Blvd, Suite 140 Cincinnati, OH 45249 513.444.2015 (ph) 513.444.2099 (fx) info@cincinnatiparent.com Copyright: Cincinnati Parent Magazine is published monthly. Copyright 2008 by Cincinnati Parent and Midwest Parenting Publications, LLC. All rights reserved.

Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited. Distribution of this magazine does not constitute an endorsement of products, commentary or services herein. For information on subscriptions, editorial guidelines, advertising rates and more visit www.

cincinnatiparent.com

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM 5

N E WS & SH O PPI N G

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news you can use

Acting Up Young PerformerS Celebrates 5th Anniversary by Presenting “The Wizard of Oz” September 24, 25, & 26 One of the greatest family musicals of all time will be touching down as Acting Up Young Performers Theater of Mason celebrates their 5th anniversary by bringing back it’s premier production, “The Wizard of Oz” to Mason, September 24, 25, and 26. Join Dorothy, the Scarecrow, Tin Man, and Cowardly Lion as they travel through Oz in search of the Great Wizard.

The Summit Country Day School Announces Early Childhood Education Symposium Come listen to nationally acclaimed educator, psychologist and author, JoAnn Deak, Ph.D., as she discusses an array of today’s most intriguing topics for children from birth to age 10. Dr. Deak has spent more than thirty years as an educator and psychologist, helping children develop into confident and competent adults. The latter half of that period has also focused on working with adults, parents and teachers in their roles as guides or ‘neurosculptors’ of children. She describes her perspective on her work as “Every interaction a child has, during the course of a day, influences the adult that child will become.” Event is free and open to the public. For session topics and pre-registration, visit www.summitcds.org. Complimentary box lunch is provided for those who pre-register by 10/14.

Tri-State Multiples to Host Children’s Clothing, Toys and Equipment Sale Come visit Princeton Community Middle School at 11157 Chester Road in Cincinnati on October 2, 2010 from 8:30 am – 11:30 am to find clothing, holiday outfits, coats, car seats, strollers (including multiple strollers), swings, exersaucers, pack-n-plays, beds, bottles, bedding, high chairs, shoes, books, videos, seasonal items and more! Only $1 per adult. Cash only and all sales are final. For complete details or to sign up for e-mail notices, visit www.tristatemultiples.com.

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There will be four shows of “The Wizard of Oz” at the Mason High School Theater, 6100 Mason Montgomery Road. This show will feature a cast of approximately 100 talented youngsters ages 6 to 18, hailing from all over the Cincinnati area.

Performances of “The Wizard of Oz” will be held at 7 p.m. Friday, September 24; 2 p.m., (sign language interpreter will be provided) and 7 p.m., Saturday, September 26; and at 2 p.m. Sunday, September 27.

Tickets are $10 each ($8 seniors) and are available online at www.ActingUp.com or at the box off ice starting one hour before the show. For more information call 513-494-6062.

EnterTRAINment Junction Perfect for Field Trips EnterTRAINment Junction in West Chester -- It’s the perfect field trip, both fun and educational! Voted Ohio’s best family entertainment center, EnterTRAINment Junction is an unforgettable destination for school groups, churches, scouts, daycares and campers of all ages. 80,000 square feet of fantastic attractions under one roof and all climate-controlled.

There’s so much to see and do, including the world’s largest indoor model train display, a giant kids’ interactive play area, a remarkable American Railroading Museum, fun walk-through mazes, crafts and scavenger hunts. Call Claire at (513) 898-8000 to book your greatest field trip ever! www.entertrainmentjunction.com

Experience Nature at the 2010 Great Outdoor Weekend Ever wondered what lives in a pond, what a PawPaw tastes like, how to climb a tree or what it takes to make a sustainable garden? How about making paper, sampling water or fly casting? Well, here’s your chance! These are just a few of the many unique, fun and interesting programs you and your family can experience during the 2010 Great Outdoor Weekend on Saturday and Sunday, September 25 and 26.

Fall Fun at Sunrock Farm!

Over 50 hands-on programs from more than 30 environmental and recreation organizations to choose from—all for FREE! Some of the organizations involved include Cincinnati Nature Center, Hamilton County Park District, Cincinnati Observatory Center, Ohio Department of Nature Resources (ODNR), Kenton County Parks & Recreation and much more.

From Union to Lawrenceburg and College Hill to Sharonville, there is something for everyone, everywhere during the Great Outdoor Weekend!

Sunrock farm is a 113 acre farm built in 1848 which for the past 30 years has offered farm education and enjoyment to many children and their parents. Its attractive park-like setting and warm child-friendly atmosphere make it an ideal place for families to visit and enjoy a taste of old-fashioned farm life.

The clean, sanitary environment enhances the enjoyment of the many baby farm animals, larger cows and horses, as well.

Sunrock even allows families hold and brush all kinds of farm animals, milk goats, help gather eggs and TONS more. Then take a hayride to the pumpkin patch to pick your favorite

For more info visit www.CincyGreatOutdoorWeekend. org. Also, feel free to stop by any participating organization locations, your local library or nature outfitter for a free color brochure that includes a map of program locations and a list of dates and times that programs are being offered. We look forward to seeing you there!

The Great Outdoor Weekend is an initiative of Green Umbrella, a local non-profit organization that promotes and facilitates the preservation, restoration, awareness, understanding, and enjoyment of the natural environment of the Greater Cincinnati area. To find out more about Green Umbrella and its mission, go to www.GreenUmbrella.org.

pumpkin! Weekends at the farm includes free apple cider and cookies for your enjoyment. Plus, the farm is easy to get to and only 10 minutes from downtown Cincinnati!

Make sure your cameras have lots of memory space available for great photos which will last a lifetime.

Space is limited. Call today for times/prices and to make your reservation. See you at the farm!

Red Cross Encourages Family Preparedness September is National Preparedness Month and the Cincinnati Region of the American Red Cross understands that disasters take many forms and can occur at any time, but there are steps that your family can take in advance if the unthinkable were to occur.

“Here at the Red Cross, we have so many great opportunities to get children involved in preparedness,” says Jane Wiehe, Health and Safety Training Coordinator for the Cincinnati Area Chapter. “We provide safety education to children and parents alike, so that in case of an emergency the entire family is prepared.”

Get a Kit: When disasters require a quick evacuation, a “Go Bag”—backpack with emergency supplies/important documents for each household member—is essential Make a Plan: Develop a family communication plan so that everyone knows where to go and whom to call in case of an emergency. Practice your plan to be sure that children are comfortable with it.

Be Informed: Stay informed of continuing emergencies by listening to community leaders and official recommendations. Pay attention to emergency weather watches and warnings.

During the 2nd and 3rd week of September the Cincinnati Region of the American Red Cross has planned special outreach and activities to help schools and families understand the importance of preparedness. American Red Cross youth preparedness programs engage students with age-appropriate information, activities and materials that empower them with knowledge and skills they will need to prevent, prepare for and respond to the emergencies.

On Our Own: A class offered to 3rd-5th graders that provides resources and tips to aid families as their children take on the new responsibility of staying home alone. The class is being offered on September 13, 2010 from 6-8 p.m.at the Red Cross office in Blue Ash, 10870 Kenwood Rd. Cincinnati, OH 45242. The cost for the class is $10.

First Aid for Little People: First Aid classes for elementary age students will be offered in fall 2010.

Children’s Events: The Cincinnati Red Cross will be offering activities at the Cincinnati Museum Center during their Free Fridays event on September 17, 2010. The activities promote safety and preparedness and are geared toward children from preschool to elementary age.

Babysitting Training: Youth ages 11-15 will learn accident prevention, diapering, feeding and emergency first aid. Youth are taught to interact with children through appropriate games and activities. September 4 & 25, 2010.

Pet First Aid: Please don’t forget your pet! We offer first aid courses that provide training in rescuing your furry friends. Please visit our website for the next class offering.

To book programs please visit our website at www.cincinnatiredcross.org or call 513.792.4000. To receive more information surrounding the events of September Preparedness Month please contact Nikki Williams at 513-579-3910.

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM 7

Getting to Know the

Times Have Changed, Be Aware of New SAT Guidelines Many parents might remember taking the SAT in high school. It was

usually taken just once, the score was out of 1600 and the testing was organized by the school. Times have definitely changed and parents now find themselves clueless when helping guide their child through the test-taking process. Luckily, knowing just a few key aspects of the test will help send your child down the path of success.

Know the Content and Format: The SAT evaluates skills learned in school in three areas: Critical Reading, Math and Writing. These skills are tested to determine a student’s readiness for college level work. The Critical Reading section tests comprehension; analogies are no longer a part of this section—thank goodness! Math tests arithmetic, algebra, geometry and statistics and Writing assesses knowledge of grammar and usage. Most questions are multiple choice, with the exception of 10 student-produced responses in Math and an essay in Writing. The SAT is made up of 10 sections and the test takes a total of 3 hours and 45 minutes to complete.

Know How it’s Scored and How to Strategize: Understanding the SAT scoring can be very confusing. For each question correctly answered, one point is earned. For an incorrect answer, a quarter of a point is deducted, but for an omitted answer, points are neither earned nor deducted. These raw points are then converted to a score that will fall between 200 and 800 for each section, making the highest possible score 2400. Because of the way the SAT is scored, it’s a good idea to have a strategy for deciding whether or not to answer a question. A simple rule of thumb is, if you can eliminate two answer choices, then go ahead and take a guess. If you have no clue of the answer, skip it. That is very hard to do, but following this strategy can positively impact your score.

Know How to Prepare: The best preparation for the SAT is to work hard in school by taking challenging courses and giving consistent effort. A strong grasp of vocabulary is also important for the SAT, and reading as much as possible is a great way to strengthen it. Most schools do require students to take the PSAT in October of their Junior year; this is excellent practice for the SAT and a good predictor of the SAT score. After receiving the PSAT score, add a zero to the end of the total and that will turn it into an SAT score. When researching colleges, f ind out if this score falls in the range necessary for admission. If it doesn’t, there are several prep options, ranging from books, to group sessions, to one-on-one instruction.

Preparation methods vary in cost and levels of improvement, so do some research and f ind the option that best suits your child and family.

Andrea Limke is the Center Director for Huntington Learning Center at Harper’s Point.

For more information on Huntington Learning Center, or its SAT and ACT one on one instruction, please call 513-489-5777 or hlchpt@yahoo.com.

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM 9

A ro und town

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arts & enrichment

Kicking Up Confidence

Martial Arts Teach More than Self-Esteem The phenomenon of martial arts for children is sweeping across the nation. Parents recognize the benefits of building self-confidence while developing core strength and motor skills.

Parents need to gather information and observe classes for each of the different styles available.When doing this, understand the benefits and advantages of each martial art discipline before enrolling their children to a martial art studio or “dojo.”

Why Martial Arts According to a study by University of West Florida, “The Effects of martial arts Instruction on Preadolescents’ and Early Adolescents’ Self-Esteem,” researchers discovered that self-esteem was higher after the first instructional cycle of taekwondo training. Teacher instructions, expectations and assessments were clear. Students, therefore, gained confidence to master defined goals—that is, students intrinsically valued the instructional process of taekwondo, and thus, applied the necessary effort to achieve. Learning environments that promote students’ taking control of their own learning through structured and ritualistic activities create for students an intrinsic purpose for learning. In the taekwondo learning environment, students increased their feelings about themselves and reduced fear of failing after applying effort.

“I believe it is important for children to participate in martial arts because of the life skills that they learn.

We teach traditional martial arts, stranger awareness and bully proofing. For our bully-proofing, we teach a program called verbal judo, which by itself teaches the students everything they need to know about how to stay safe,” said McDuffie Strickland, master instructor at Cincinnati Martial Arts Club (CMAC).

Children benefit from martial arts by learning discipline, focus and the realization of strength through patience and determination.

Build confidence, learn life skills According to Greg Lewis, owner of Cincinnati Taekwondo Academy, they are a school that is all about children. “We teach life-skills and personal development. For example, teaching a simple punch for an entire class is part of what we do. However,

as we are teaching the punch, we are teaching the children how to focus their eyes on a target, their teacher at school or on mom and dad. We can use the punch to teach them how to focus their eyes, their minds, and their bodies. From concentration and focus to how to look someone in the eyes and shake their hand. Our art is all encompassing.”

This is the appeal with martial arts. Parents recognize that having focus at an early age is important in school and at home. If negative situations occur on the bus or at school, some parents are proactive and enroll children to combat the backlash of bullying.

“In our life skills program we teach respect, discipline, focus, honor and much more. With verbal judo, students learn how to handle bullying by staying calm and learning how to deescalate the situation without physical contact. This program was created by Dr. George Thompson and is, by far, the best program for children I have found since I started researching the effects of bullying in 1981. The physical self-defense is always age specific and geared for the student to get away safely,” said Strickland. “We also have a leadership program where we teach the student how to be leaders at school, on the playground and home.”

What could be more important than maintaining focus than building self-respect?

“Shorinryu is the karate most popular with kids, consisting of our mighty mite program for ages four to six years old. The focus there is respect and teaching them how to focus. We keep them moving and it’s a high-energy class, so the life skills are built into the class. When they hear key words they say yes, sir; no, sir; yes, ma’am; no ma’am.This goes from beginner, intermediate and advanced.They get tested and pass like everyone else does. We set them up for success before they are in front of 100 people for their test, so that boosts confidence,” said Sensei Ben Nishime with Nishime Family Karate, located at Kids Sports and three additional locations. Teaching martial arts is not for fighting, but an art that involves discipline, balance and exercise.

A complete body workout At the CMAC, they offer strength and flexibility training using the body, stability balls and tubes.

“When it comes to the physical martial arts, students learn how to take care of their bodies through proper exercise and nutrition,” said Strickland.

Having a healthy image of yourself, strong body and self-awareness at an early age will increase your likelihood for success. “I remember being on team sports, yet never getting to play. I went to a more individualized sport, running, and took it to a prestigious university. Sometimes people can get lost in a group sport,” said Mark Tracy, owner of Tracy’s Karate.

Mark Tracy will push his students, demand greatness, but it’s at their level of understanding and ability that they will experience personal success. “Introductory classes at my dojo include four half-hour private lessons where I teach them how to respect the art.

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From there, it is private instruction and group classes,” he said. “Parents say, ‘I want my son or daughter to be safe. You make them safe.’ There’s an awesome privilege to do this. I’m teaching second generations now. One of the big things over the past couple of years has been the increase in female students. The female population in class is starting to grow and they are really good. Some are better than boys.”

Lewis shares you can teach an old dog new tricks.

However, between “I believe it is important for children to participate in martial the ages of four arts because of the life skills that they learn.­” — McDuffie and six, Strickland, master instructor at Cincinnati Martial Arts Club (CMAC). children are being shaped into who they will be. Children are a product of their From Japan, Karatedo is a popular style for kids environments and we want to expose them to the as it uses both defensive and offensive moves best possible environments possible. Traditional tae while also focusing on balance. It centers on the kwon do is great for being structured, disciplined, and kata, which revolves around the inner strength fun. Ho-am tae kwon do expands upon this to teach of an individual in being able to defend against social competence, understanding of biomechanics, an enemy. It involves punches, kicks, blocking, and creates mindfulness in training and in life. techniques, sparring and chopping. This style is well-recommended as it will develop the child’s inner strength.

Attaining the black belt Rank and belts are not equivalent between arts, styles, or even within some organizations. In some arts, a Ju jitsu is another Japanese style that has its black belt is quite easy to obtain, usually expected influence from Chinese Martial Arts. Originally in three years, while in others ten years may be designed for women, ju jitsu uses several defensive common.Testing for a black belt is commonly more and offensive techniques in self-defense using a rigorous and more centralized than for lower grades. fair amount of sparring.

It is a common belief that belts are handed out more loosely in the West than in Asia, where the custom of Aikido is a style with its roots based on a spiritual using the color of the belt to indicate a practitioner’s teaching of the ki, a central force that moderates rank originated. In Japan, however, rank often comes the flow of energy in the human body.This martial more or less automatically with time done and the art harnesses energy and finds a way to redirect it black belt has little to do with the master level which as a defensive martial art. westerners often think of when they hear the term black belt.

Kung fu is perhaps the most popular martial art style, originating from China. Kung-fu involves “Each style of martial arts is different. In kenpo, the various attack movements and defensive styles style I teach, there will be a lot of different colored which can be similar to a dance. Practitioners belts before the black belt. People will learn self usually engage in sparring competitions. Some defense techniques, then learn kata, which is the style used in Kung-Fu is derived from animal techniques put together while working up the movement and defense such as the “tiger claw”, color ladder. They will learn basic blocks, kicks “crane” and “snake”. and punches, and that’s usually about three months to get a yellow belt. People should be in a purple Korean martial arts, such as tae kwon do, involve belt within a year,” said Tracy. “There are degrees in using ones legs in elaborate footwork and kick brown and black belts. For an adult, that is usually combinations.This style had been widely accepted the four year mark.” in competitions and children have been receptive to its complex approach.

Determining which martial art is best for your child depends on the quality of instruction of the style, Judo utilizes movement, which can be closely the moral values of your family and the goals you associated to wrestling, also considered a very want to attain, whether it’s self defense or gross safe style. It focuses on mental development motor skills to compliment other activities, overall and the use of physical foundation in order health or rehabilitation, or to become your child’s to get an advantage over the opponent. This discipline teaches that size is not a deciding area of passion. factor in a match, but technique and skill acquired at the dojo.

Different types of Martial Art There are different approaches in learning the Nikki Keever is a freelance wide variety of martial arts. These styles are writer, wife and mother of three based on techniques developed in Japan, China living in Noblesville, Indiana. and Korea.

Arts & Enrichment Guide Music Baldwin Music Education Center 3799 Hyde Park Ave/Hyde Park, Cincinnati, OH 45209 Contact: Rachel Kramer Phone: 351-1109 Fax: 351-3934 Email: rachelkramer@ baldwinmusiceducenter.com www.baldwinmusiceducenter.com Keyboard-based group music programs for ages 6-months to 4-years. Piano classes ages 5 and up. Specially designed curriculum taught by trained, degreed music educators.

Family discounts, convenient location.

Cincinnati Boychoir 4501 Allison St., Cincinnati, OH 45212 Contact: Christopher Eanes Phone: 513-396-7664 Email: sing@cincinnatiboychoir www.cincinnatiboychoir.org The Cincinnati Boychoir provides vocal training and ensemble experience in the traditional art of boychoir singing. Founded in 1965, the Boychoir seeks to enhance the

social, emotional and musical development of young boys through dedication, selfdiscipline and respect. By striving for artistic excellence and learning a diverse repertory of choral literature, the boys are prepared for a lifelong love of music and ensemble singing.

Cincinnati Children’s Choir University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music, Cincinnati, OH 45221-0236 Contact: Robyn Lana Phone: (513) 556-0338 Email: choir@cincinnatichoir.org Website: http://www. cincinnatichoir.org The Cincinnati Children’s Choir offers children of all backgrounds the opportunity to experience musical excellence in a creative environment. CCC welcomes children of all abilities in grades 2 - 12 to audition in September to become a member. All choirs perform for local and international audiences throughout the year.

Piano Lessons In Your Home 5513-860-3540 cincinnati@ pianolessonsinyourhome.com

Piano, Voice and Guitar Lessons in Your Home -Learn to play piano, guitar or receive voice lessons in the comfort of your home. PLYH offers highly qualified teachers, flexible schedules, optional recitals, and a lending library. Serving students ages 4 to adult from Lebanon, Ohio to Northern Kentucky.

West chester academy of music 8374 Princeton Glendale Rd, West Chester, OH 45069 (513)829-2345 www.wcaom.com Quality private lessons in piano, voice, guitar, violin, cello, clarinet, saxophone, flute, drums, harp, trumpet and steel drums.

Also offers nationally acclaimed Music for Young Children, a group keyboard curriculum for ages 5 and up, and Music Pups, a music and movement class for birth to 4. Call for FREE trial class.

Dance Ballet Theatre Midwest 3833 Eastern Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45226 Phone: (513)520-2334

Email: ballettheatremidwest@ fuse.net www.ballettheatremidwest.com Open House Dates: FREE Open House August 30-September 4; Stop in and visit our brand new location! Free classes available, register for Fall 2010.

“Grace, beauty creativity, movement!

Experience the joy of dance at Ballet Theatre Midwest. Our nurturing environment, professional faculty and lovely facility offers the finest in classical dance training for ages 3 - adult. Age appropriate training and performance opportunities for all students.”

Learn more about our new class offerings and programs. Excellence in training, performance and community outreach.

Theatre Cincinnati Playhouse In The Park 404 Ludlow Avenue, Clifton, OH 45220 Phone: 513-861-(SHOW) 7469 www.cliftonperformancetheatre. com EXPRESS YOURSELF! Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park offers acting and drama

classes for toddlers, children, teens and adults at multiple locations. Call 513/421.3888 for information and registration or visit www. cincyplay.com.

Clifton Performance Theatre P.O. Box 6537, Cincinnati, OH 45206-0537 Contact: Mark Lutwak Phone: 513-345-2242 Email: mark.lutwak@ cincyplay.com Website: http://cincyplay.com Clifton Performance Theatre offers performance workshops for ages 4 to 16 (four weeks long with full-show production at the end) and theatre classes (ballet, vocal and acting). The studio is a black box theatre, where the magic of CPT’s Children’s Repertory happens every Sunday at 2 pm as the all-child casts present musicals appropriate and entertaining for all ages. For registration, more information and adult event scheduling please visit our web site.

Your Listing Here!

Contact Katie at Katie@CincinnatiParent.com

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM 11

Co mmentary & Parentin g

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dear teacher

Setting a Good Foundation for the School Year, Reading to Middle Schoolers and Learning Numbers Setting a Good Foundation for this School Year Parents: The new school year has started. The first few weeks are very important for setting a good foundation for the rest of the year. Here are some steps that you should take right away.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Make sure that the family calendar is in sync with the school calendar. This will help in planning vacation times and times when you may need to arrange for extra care for your children.

acquainted with teachers, staff and other parents. Find an area where you are able to participate. Since many parents work, most schools now have functions for parents before school, in the evening and on weekends. Schools also offer opportunities to help with one-day activities such as field trips, sports days and science-fair days. our Web site (www.dearteacher.com) and 6. Visit search for “back to school” to find additional things that should be done at the start of the school year.

It’s a Great Idea to Read to Middle Schoolers

Attend back-to-school or meet-the-teacher evenings, along with any other special meetings that affect your Question: My son just started middle school. Is it children. It’s a quick way to become acquainted with your still a good idea to read to him every night? – Avid Reader children’s teachers and find out what will be expected of your children.

ANSWER: Don’t quit reading to your son. All the experts Read the school handbook so that you are familiar with recommend it. Studies even show that it is likely to increase your school procedures. You will learn how to report absences, child’s reading scores and his interest in reading. Furthermore, handle medical appointments, drop off or pick your child up at school, and contact teachers to arrange for conferences or to he is being exposed to a more advanced vocabulary. It is also discuss any problems that might be going on at home. When a great way to communicate with him on a wide variety of everyone follows the same procedures, it definitely makes life subjects. And frankly, everyone enjoys listening to stories. a lot easier for the office staff and will help you avoid making mistakes in dealing with the school.

Here are some hints to make your reading sessions as successful Take the time to fill out all parent information cards. as possible: Make the appropriate changes if you move, change jobs or get Be consistent in reading to your son every night. a new phone number. Schools need to be able to get in contact You needn’t read for more than 15 minutes. with you quickly if there is an emergency. If these cards are out-of-date, time may be wasted in trying to contact you.

Don’t just read books. Magazine articles on Get involved in some school activity. You will learn so topics that interest him are a good choice. much more about how the school operates and become better

12 CINCINNATI PARENT * SEPTEMBER 2010

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Have him make suggestions about what he would like to hear.

together. Matching fosters the ideas of likenesses and non-likenesses between objects.

Be sure to choose age-appropriate materials (no childish stories).

Sorting Sorting involves such simple activities as putting oranges and apples in different piles. When children can place a number of objects together because Try to complete a chapter a night when reading for some reason they belong together, those children chapter books. have started down the road to mathematical and logical For a treat, watch movies or videos of books thought. after finishing them.

Ordering Children first learn about ordering by physically putting objects in size order. Then they The First Steps in Teaching Children are ready to extend this concept to number. Begin by about Numbers having your child find which object is larger or smaller Question: My preschooler is having a difficult time of two paired items varying in size, such as shoes, cups with understanding numbers. He sees a group of apples or spoons. but does not know that the group he is looking at is the same as the number 3. What activities can I do with Counting Teach your child to count so he’ll learn the him to help him learn more about numbers? – Challenge names of the numbers. Then have him count a small number of similar items such as pennies, shoes or plates.

Answer: Number concept development involves learning words and symbols to describe quantities. Matching You can’t assume that your son understands Children best learn to do this when they handle everyday numbers until he can match sets of the same size. If you objects. Sorting activities will help him develop an have five cups and five saucers then you have one cup understanding of collections -- how objects can be joined for each saucer. in collections or separated out and moved into other Parents should send questions and comments to collections. Ordering activities emphasize the concepts of Peggy Gisler and Marge Eberts at dearteacher@ “less” and “more.” Through counting, children come to dearteacher.com or ask them on the columnists’ understand the connections joining the number concepts Web site at www.dearteacher.com.

Hey, you!

Yes, you with the bag of chips

and cell phone to your ear.

P ut

those down

and

listen

to me for a moment.

It might save your life.

Not only that, it might save the life of your child.

Childhood obesity is running rampant throughout the U.S. Over the past thirty years, the problem has grown by leaps and bounds with approximately one-third of America’s children now falling into the overweight or obese categories. In addition, a recent study found that Ohio children are less likely than their counterparts nationwide to be physically active for at least four days per week, and more likely to spend two hours or more in front of a television or computer screen. The consequences of this sedentary lifestyle can include high cholesterol, edema, diabetes, skin darkening (called acanthosis, it is due to an insulin resistance and inability to metabolize sugars), heart problems, high blood pressure, sleep apnea and depression.

rcise e x E d ng an i t tine a u E o y R h t y l a e Hea veryd k E a r M u o of Yo t How t r a P a resulting in kids home alone eating diet and enforcing rules. It’s about being an exercise,” she says. “Positive reinforcement is unhealthy snacks adds to the dilemma. advocate for a healthy lifestyle and setting an absolutely essential. With younger children, example. “Parents need to emphasize fun, not simple stickers or privileges are a In an effort to combat the problem on the school level, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital has developed obesity prevention programming for Cincinnati Public Schools and com mun it y organ izations titled Focused Understanding of Nutrition & Fitness In Teens (FUN & FIT). FUN & FIT is a six-week health education curriculum designed to promote the healthy eating and physical activity behaviors recommended by the Expert Comm ittee from the Childhood Obesity Action Network. Teens in the program focus on the basic nutrition and physical activity concepts as well as overcoming barriers and bad habits. (For more information on FUN & FIT, visit www.cincinnatichildrens.org).

It’s been said that it takes a community to raise a child, and while there may be problems with community schools, such as highly processed lunches and fewer physical education offerings, the fact of the matter is, good habits begin at home and parents need to step up and set a healthy example for their children. “Parents need to start when children are young, setting limits and modeling behavior,” says Dr. Jennifer B. Hillman, Assistant Professor of Pediatrics in the Division of Adolescent Medicine at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital. “Whether it be simply playing a family game or helping with yard work, make it a part of the family culture.”

The growing problem can be attributed to m a ny d i f ferent behav iora l a nd environmental causes combining to create an epidemic. Growing dependence on and accessibility to technolog y (one recent survey found that four out of f ive American teens—nearly 17 million—carry a wireless device, a 40 % increase since 2004), and busy lifestyles requiring fast and easy meals and less time for family activities are just part of the problem. Increased portion sizes, Yet, how do you motivate your child to get up the availability and marketing of heavily and get moving? According to Dr. Hillman, processed foods and both parents working it is not about putting children on a strict

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM 13

Approximately

one-third of America’s children now fall into the

overweight or obese categories.

nice incentive.

T hey a re usua l ly just happy to make their parents happy. Older kids and adolescents sometimes need more motivation. They are old enough to understand that it is about their health.

However, somet i me s , just talking to a doctor about possible consequences of being overweight can help.”

and tap it in the direction of anyone in your family. I guarantee they will hit it back. It’s a proven fact that even the most mature, sedate adult cannot resist and high-spirited game of balloon tap!

As your child’s activity grows, begin to chart progress and set goals. Make them simple and reward achievements with non-food related awards such as a half hour of screen time or even better, an activity-related outing to a favorite park, zoo or swimming pool.

Local options abound for families and children wanting to get involved in programs outside the home. Personal Trainer Elyse Jarard, owner of Venus Fitness for Her, hosts several programs for young girls ages 8 to 16. Girls are often referred by their physician, but programs are offered for all girls at all age levels.

“I assess each girl’s specif ic needs and address them in either oneon-one or group settings,” says Elyse, who also holds a degree in biology and spent 12 years in the f ield of medical research. “I’m not trying to teach athletics,” she says. Instead, Elyse works on the basics of exercise, building a foundation and core stabilization. She also works with parents, teaching them to be an example and help their children learn life exercise skills. “These kids will likely not be out on the soccer f ield when they are forty, but they need to understand the basic importance of an active lifestyle.” Elyse also offers after school programs on occasion and will be presenting a series of clinics for young girls beginning in the fall designed to “empower girls to love themselves, their bodies and know how to be healthy their whole lives.” The f irst clinic will be held on October 3 and will include f itness, nutrition, cooking and skin care. For more information, email Elyse at elysej@venus4her.com.

YMCA of Greater Cincinnati branches also offer affordable, family-oriented f itness classes. In addition, the R.C. Durr YMCA, located in Burlington, Kentucky, has instituted a “Walking Works” program, made possible by a grant from the American Academy of Pediatrics, for children ages 9-14 who are considered to be overweight or obese (as determined by a physician). The program includes f itness coaching sessions, nutrition sessions, a health coach and free membership to the YMCA. Family cardio f itness and information is also available. “It’s important for the parents to get involved and commit to supporting their children,” says Kari Holland, Wellness Coordinator at the R.C. Durr branch. “All of the children who have had success with the program have had parents who were involved and cheering them on. Positive reinforcement is the key.” For more information on YMCA programs, email Kari at kholland@cincinnatiymca.org.

Begin by creating an atmosphere that is conducive to exercise.

Cut back on access to screen time and provide more access to fun opportunities to exercise. A few simple outdoor games and activities can be the only motivation a child needs to get active. Toss a Frisbee or a ball, set up a sprinkler to run through or provide a hula hoop, jump rope or bean bag toss. Inside, clear a space for tumbling type fun. It doesn’t have to be fancy; just a “free action space” where it It’s not always easy to talk yourself into putting down the chips and the cell phone and get motivated, but once you’ve done it, the is okay to jump, roll a ball or turn on the radio and dance. benef its are undeniable for both you and your family. You’ll be so However, don’t just set up the space and walk away. Get involved and glad you did. instigate activities with your child. In short, if you make exercise a Rebecca Todd is a freelance writer and author of the priority in your own life, your children will mimic your behavior. book What’s the Point? -- Looking for Logic in Modern Go on family walks before dinner or dance to a favorite song. Your America.m. activity can be infectious for your child. Try this: blow up a balloon

14 CINCINNATI PARENT * September 2010

H E A LT H & W E LLN E SS

*

pediatric health

Be Prepared for Flu Season Common Myths and Facts about Flu

Children can sometimes have a low-grade with a history of adverse reactions to vaccine fever with a cold, but most will continue components. normal activities.

Since 2004, the American College of Conversely, the f lu has a much more Obstetrics and Gynecology has recommended significant fever, a hacking cough and body flu shots for pregnant women in any trimester. aches. These symptoms usually start suddenly Pregnant women, anyone in the home and with no feeling that “a cold is coming on.” any other caregivers should be vaccinated Infected kids appear quite ill and do not want before the baby arrives. The vaccine may be safely given during breastfeeding as well. to play or eat.

Influenza is a virus. Like most viral illnesses, few medications can treat it. Symptomatic t reat ment is recom mended instead.

Acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be used to treat the fever and body aches. Kids and seniors are particularly prone to dehydration when they have a fever, so encouraging them to drink more is equally important, especially if they do not have much of an appetite.

As the dog days of summer fade to the crisp days of fall, it’s time to prepare for a familiar winter foe – the flu.

The flu is different from the common cold and 24-hour stomach bugs commonly called “flu.” A cold generally starts as a runny nose, productive cough and nasal congestion.

The flu shot does NOT contain a live virus vaccine and CANNOT give you the flu as is commonly believed. Overcoming the myth that getting a flu shot can give you the flu remains the biggest obstacle to vaccination.

However, Flumist does contain live virus, so it is not appropriate for children younger than two, people with compromised immune systems or with a history of asthma. Pregnant women also should not take Flumist.

To manage the flu season, the CDC recommends following the WATCH protocol:

* * * * *

Wash hands often for 20 seconds.

Avoid sick people and avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.

Teach others how to prevent the flu.

Cover your cough or sneeze.

Have an emergency plan in case you Flu shots contain very low levels of thimerosol, get the flu. which the CDC has advised is safe, even for pregnant women. Some doctor’s offices There is little question that flu vaccines and pharmacies will stock preservative-free have significantly lessened the burden of Vaccination remains the best way to versions of the vaccine. the disease. Check with your doctor about minimize the impact of the flu season, which getting vaccinated before the season begins. usually lasts October through March. The This year, the seasonal flu vaccine will Theresa Derickson MD is a Group Centers for Disease Control and Prevention include the H1N1 strain; a separate vaccine Health Associates pediatrician.

(CDC) recommends everyone over 6 months is no longer necessary.

SARAH LEWIS, MD is an be vaccinated against flu. Generally, the only obstetrician/gynecologist people who should not receive the vaccine A nasal spray version of the vaccine, or and department direcotr at Group Health Associates. are those with severe egg allergies and those Flumist, is a painless alternative to the shot.

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM 15

What are your favorite memories as a child? Do some of them include family vacations, school field trips, summer camp and special events at the theatre, museum or national park? As our lives fill with routine tasks, professional trips and a few weeks for family vacation, families depend on the creativity of schools and caretakers to ensure children get the same experiential experiences we had to compliment our own education.

Field trips in the formative years are one of the most important things teachers can provide for their students.

As we all know, children learn by doing. They remember what they have personally experienced. Field trips are a type of experiential learning that takes children away from the traditional classroom setting and into a new style of learning. They can be as simple as taking a class of children out on the school grounds for a lesson in observation or as detailed as an out-of-state visit to a particular field site.

of Natural History covers unlimited admission to all three. Family memberships include two adults and all the children under 21 living in one household. Because we are a nationally accredited zoo, children’s museum and a science-technology center (AZA, ASTC and ACM), our members can also receive free or reduced admission to various venues across the nation,” she said.

“Downtown Cincinnati has an abundance of familyfriendly and educational options ranging from the Cincinnati Fire Museum to the Reds Hall of Fame and the Freedom Center to the UnMuseum at the Contemporary Arts Center. A visit to any one of these wonderful institutions, coupled with a stop at Fountain Square to have lunch or enjoy the water wall, makes for a great outing,” said Emilie Johnson, associate vice president of marketing and communications Downtown Cincinnati, Inc.

The Toledo Museum of Art and The Cleveland Museum of Art have family programs both offer free entry and integrate educational, social and youthspecific activities.

Museums

The Boonshoft Museum of Discovery in Dayton is the premier regional provider of interactive science learning experiences, which enrich the lives of children and adults, enhance the quality of life in our community, and promotes a broad understanding of the world.

“Families can experience a science center, children’s museum, natural history museum, and zoo – with the added bonus of the only public planetarium and observatory in the region. Traveling exhibitions that change three times a year with permanent exhibits like Science On a Sphere. This is all under one roof, 90,000 square feet of fun,” said Kristy D. Creel, Manager, Marketing and Public Relations, Dayton Society of Natural History, which includes The Boonshoft Museum, SunWatch Indian Village and Fort Ancient.

“All three of our venues are a great family destination. The bonus is that one membership with the Dayton Society

Cincinnati’s own Museum of Natural History and Science has been providing educational experiences for students for over 10 years. Their comprehensive programming provides many options for students and teachers, and our special exhibits and films create an ever-changing experience for all.

If your school is on a limited budget, consider Programson-Wheels. This brings the excitement of the Cincinnati History Museum and the Museum of Natural History & Science to you. Choose from an array of educational and entertaining science, natural history and social studies programs-all of which reflect national, Ohio and Kentucky curriculum standards, as well as proficiency test outcomes for science or social studies.

The McKinley Museum in Canton is an interactive history and science museum encouraging visitors of all ages to explore fossils, dinosaurs and the lives of historic people.

This fall, the Museum is celebrating the grand opening of the one million dollar exhibition The Stark County Story. This means exciting things are happening in the

Education Department. In addition to the McKinley Gallery and the Street of Shops, the American Heritage Tour will now include The Stark County Story.”

Whether you choose to visit the Museum and experience Discover World, the Planetarium, an American Heritage Tour, Ohio & You, or Destination Stark County, or you choose one of our outreach programs staffed by a Museum professional, be assured that your students will have a rewarding, fun and educational experience that will have them wanting to come back for more.

Rural life & history

Johnny Appleseed Heritage Center in Mifflin, holds their annual Apple Festival on Saturday, September 11, 2010 from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. with story tellers, singing and a large birthday cake.

Johnny Appleseed will be there to spin some true tall tales of his own and handing out apples to all as they leave the center. The Heritage Center encourages visitors to visit www.ohioapples.org before visiting to equip themselves with educational tools for students and teachers.

Blooms and Berries Farm Market is celebrating their 10th anniversary this year. Field trip packages last about 2 hours and costs about $5.50 per person.

Each tour provide a hayride tour of the farm, visiting animals, a small pumpkin (picked while on the farm tour), apple juice and popcorn snack and unlimited time in the farm-themed play area for each guest. Depending on the group, demonstrations have included changes in the season on the farm, life cycles of plants and everyday farm life. This fall, visitors will enjoy the 7-acre “Explore Cincy” corn maze every weekend from September 25 through Oct 31 during their Fall on the Farm. Everything from hayrides, pumpkin patch featuring pumpkin-palooza and even activities like

paintball pumpkin will be available. Concessions include everything from caramel apples to cheese burgers. For more information visit www.fallonthefarm.com.

SunWatch Indian Village in Dayton offers exploration and learning both indoors and out. Visitors will enjoy watching an introductory film in the indoor theatre, viewing artifacts and learning about the history of the village and its inhabitants in the interpretive center and immersing themselves in the 800-year-old lifestyle by visiting the reconstructed structures, located in their original, exact locations. An enhanced audio tour of the grounds is available for a nominal fee.

SunWatch offers five unique, all-age appropriate guided tours designed to complement classroom and home school curriculum guidelines to provide students with a unique educational experience.

Did you know the National Inventors Hall of Fame is located in Akron? A number of the featured inventors are inductees in the National Inventors Hall of Fame for their work that has created new industries and innumerable jobs. Inductee Lorenzo Langstroth was a 19th century inventor who created the modern beehive used in honey production, and inductee Roy Plunkett was a DuPont scientist who created the Teflon® coating used in today’s nonstick pans.

“The new food inventions exhibit is a great exhibit and one that everyone in the entire family will enjoy as they learn more about the incredible innovations that have made the food we eat safer, healthier, easier to prepare and more economical,” stated David Kappos, Under Secretary of Commerce and Director of the United States Patent and Trademark Office. Under Secretary Kappos was joined by Alexandria Mayor Bill Euille at the opening of the exhibit.

Visitors to the exhibit will be able to see the first microwave oven from 1955 made for home use, the original 1869 patent model for the Mason canning jar, an antique can opener collection, a display of a 1950’s era kitchen, and learn the story behind the original Tollhouse Chocolate Chip Cookie. Also featured are additional inductees whose inventions revolutionized the way we eat, such as Luther Burbank who worked to create new varieties of fruits and vegetables, George Washington Carver who worked with peanuts and found uses for the crop and Norbert Rillieux, who revolutionized the sugar production industry.

Get out while you can!

Free field trip? Keep Cincinnati Beautiful offers free field trips for both elementary and high school students.

They are an excellent way to educate students on waste management and recycling issues. Students visit a landfill 16 CINCINNATI PARENT * SEPTEMBER 2010

and Burnet Woods Trailside Nature Centers. They learn a lot about the issues of garbage and how it pertains to the environment when they actually see where garbage goes.

At the Mohican Leadership Challenge Course, all ages are welcome to test their strength, will power and determination. The toughest age for them is high school.

High school students terrific emotional needs take more instructors, more of our time, and more patience. But, the successes make it all worth the effort. The chip-onthe-shoulder is frequently a big hug by the time they finish the course.

Queen City walking tours offer three different downtown experiences, testimony to how much there is to see and learn in Cincinnati. Each tour has from 12 to 24 stops to visit everything from the Reds Hall of Fame and Museum to the City Hall.

Field trips are the first to go

Field trips not only expand children’s learning and experiences by providing them with handson experiences, they also increase children’s knowledge and understanding of the world in which they live.

The recent fuel crisis and educational cutbacks have forced most school districts to reevaluate the instructional importance of field trips. Mobile field trips have increased in popularity as these concerns often force educators to think outside the box to meet the experiential needs of students.

Nikki Keever is a freelance writer living in Noblesville, Indiana with her husband and three children.

Field Trip Guide Blooms & Berries Farm Market Address: 9669 South State Rt. 48, Loveland, OH 45140 Contact: Jeff Probst Directions to facility: On St. Rt. 48 3 mi N. of Loveland, 2 mi S. of Maineville Phone Number: 513 697-9173 E-mail: Jeff@BloomsAndBerriesFarmMarket.com

Admission Price: about $5.50 per person Hours and Dates: Weekdays Sept 27th through Oct 31st Ages Welcome: All Wheel Chair Accessibility: Limited Entertainment Available: Field trips include a hayride tour of the farm, a snack, unlimited time in the play area and a personal pumpkin to take home.

We offer educational talks for our larger groups if desired. Dress for the weather and be prepared to take your pumpkin home. To schedule a field trip, call Jeff at (513) 312-0340. We accept groups from 10 to 300 with reservation only.

Drake Planetarium 2020 Sherman Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45212 Contact: Pam Bowers, Director Phone: (513) 396-5578 pbowers@drakeplanetarium.org www.drakeplanetarium.org

We offer standards-based Science Programs to children ages 4 and up. Our interactive Planetarium programs encourage children to use critical thinking skills as they explore the universe. Our Engineering Lego Labs challenge students to put their science

knowledge into practice in hands-on environment.

All programs are age and curriculum appropriate.

Gorman Heritage Farm 10052 Reading Rd., Evendale, OH 45241 Contact: Michael Roman, Education Manager Phone: 513-563-6663 Fax: 513-563-6659 mroman@gormanfarm.org www.gormanfarm.org

Gorman Heritage Farm is a non-profit educational working family farm. We provide countless opportunities for exploring the natural world, food systems, sustainability and local history. Programs are designed to be hands-on, multidisciplinary, and multi-sensory. All programs address Ohio State standards and are led by passionate, well-trained volunteers and staff.

Heritage Village 11450 Lebanon Rd., Sharonville, OH 45241 Contact: Lisa Egan/Education Director Phone: 513-563-9484 legan@heritagevillagecincinnati.org www.heritagevillagecincinnati.org

Heritage Village Museum, an historical village located in Sharon Woods Park, offers a wide variety of field trips for all grades. Students get a handson look at how life was lived in Southwest Ohio during the 1800s. Programs based on Academic Content Standards. Scouting programs also available.

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM 17

Fall Fun Guide McGlasson Farms 5832 River Road, Hebron, KY 41048 Contact: Lon & Ginny McGlasson Phone: (859) 689-5229 www.mcglassonfarms.com Type of Event: Pumpkin Patch Directions to Facility: 3 miles west of the Anderson Ferry on Ky Route 8 Admission Price: FREE Hours/Dates: Mon-Fri 9-6pm, SatSun 9-5pm open until November 1 Ages Welcome: ALL Wheel Chair Accessibility Fall music schedule (live bands outdoors), pick your own pumpkins Food Available: apple cider, caramel apples, apple fritters, fresh produce What to Expect: pick your own pumpkins (or ready picked), fresh home-grown produce, fall decorations & live music on weekends in October

Our roadside farm market has been in family operation for six generations.

We proudly grow all of our fresh fruits & vegetables right here on the farm, available daily from July through October at our roadside stand. For a complete list of our produce and dates of availability, please call ahead.

Type of Event: Pumpkin Patch Directions to Facility: On St. Rt. 48 3 mi N. of Loveland, 2 mi S. of Maineville Admission Price: FREE Hours/Dates: Sat 10am-6pm, Sun 11am6pm Sept 25th & 26th, Oct Weekends Ages Welcome: ALL Wheel Chair Accessibility: Limited Entertainment Available: Pumpkin Palooza Hayride to the U-Pick Patch, 7 acre Cincinnati Themed Corn Maze, Kids Play Area and Animals Food Available: Burgers, Hot Dogs, Drinks, Caramel Apples, Popcorn and Snacks.

What to Expect: Admission, Parking and the Play area are FREE. Pumpkin Palooza Hayrides are $4 Adult, $3 Child. Corn Maze tickets are $5 Adult, $4 Child. Unlimited Combo Tickets for both attractions are $8 Adult, $6 Child.

Take a Hayride around our farm and through pumpkin palooza, the biggest pumpkin party around. Explore the many stops in Cincinnati as you traverse our local themed corn maze and enjoy a hand dipped caramel apple during your visit!

Sunrock Farm

Ozone Zipline Adventures at YMCA Camp Kern 5291 St Rt 350, Oregonia, OH 45054 Contact: Chris Addison Ozone Zipline Director Phone: 513-932-3756 ext. 1520 Fax: 513-932-8607 Email: caddison@daytonymca.org www.ozonezips.org Directions to Facility: Take I-71 to exit 32. Take 123 East and take first left onto St Rt 350. 2 miles down the road.

Admission Price: $75 - $100 per person Hours/Dates: 7 days a week, April 1st through December. Tours run throughout the day.

Ages Welcome: 10 years + What to Expect: A 3 - 4 hour zipping experience through wooded areas.

Groups of up to 8 with 2 guides.

Restrictions: All guests must be 10 years old and between 80 and 260lbs.

A great activity for the whole family!

Enjoy our Educational Zipline Canopy Tour through and above the tree’s of the Little Miami River Valley. We offer 2 tour options: A Traditional tour of 7 lines (3 hours) and an Extended tour of 10 lines (4 hours).

Blooms & Berries Farm Market 9669 South State Rt. 48, Loveland, OH 45140 Contact: Jeff Probst Phone: 513 697-9173 Email: Jeff@BloomsAndBerriesFarmMarket.com www.FallOnTheFarm.com 18 CINCINNATI PARENT * SEPTEMBER 2010

Address: 103 Gibson Lane, Wilder, KY 41076 Contact: Frank Traina Phone: (859)781-5502 Fax: (859)572-0260 Email: email@sunrockfarm.org Website: www.sunrockfarm.org Type of Event: Pumpkin Patch Directions to Facility: Check website for details Admission Price: $10 Hours/Dates: September & October--call ahead Ages Welcome: All Ages Wheel Chair Accessibility: Limited Entertainment Available: Hayride & Farm Activities Food Available: No Vendors: Farm Store What to Expect: Hayride to pumpkin field, milk goat, hold bunnies, brush horse, wash cow, feed sheep & goats, walk kids, take lots of great photos of children with animals

Sunrock farm is a 113 acre farm built in 1848 which for the past 30 years has offered farm education and enjoyment to many children and their parents. Ten minutes from downtown Cincinnati in Campbell county, Kentucky, the farm is easy to get to from I-275 and I-471. Its attractive park-like setting and warm child-friendly atmosphere make it an ideal place for families to visit and enjoy a taste of old-fashioned farm life. The clean, sanitary environment enhance the enjoyment of the many baby farm animals and larger cows and horses as well. Make sure your cameras have lots of memory space available for great photos which will last a lifetime. See you at the farm.

From the moment one decides to have children, the questions begin.

How should they be raised, disciplined and educated?

Options abound in the Cincinnati area for quality education, but when the time arrives to send your young ones off to school, should you go with a public or private education? According to a 2009 GreatSchools.com and Harris Interactive poll, nearly one in four parents are currently considering switching their child’s school either from private to public or public to private as a result of the economy. It’s a personal decision that shouldn’t be made based on generalizations. Many factors, of course, must be considered when making this very important decision for your child’s future. What are the costs? What are the advantages? What are the challenges?

Cincinnati private schools offer a plethora of opportunities for your children at all educational levels. From preschool to pre-college, the qualities of a private education could set your child on a positive path.

Preschool Power The early years of a child’s education will set the course for their educational future. Studies consistently show that children who attend preschool are more likely to graduate from high school and attend college.

The Montessori Academy of Cincinnati offers education from preschool through middle school. Dr. Maria Montessori, the Italian pediatrician who founded the philosophy, believed self-motivation to be the key to learning. Therefore, the Montessori teacher acts as a facilitator whose role is to stimulate interest in all facets of the child-centered learning environment. The preschool and kindergarten at the Montessori Academy is a three-year program for children ages 3 to 6. Program areas of study for this age group include sensorial, every day living, language, math, art, geography, science, music and gross motor skills. In addition, special guests and presenters visit the school every year and two or more f ield trips are scheduled each year.

Cincinnati Country Day School welcomes students from 18 months to 18 years. The early childhood “house” program provides a literal house for students 18 months through 3 years. Teachers document progress through records and digital photographs. A classic Montessori program is used for students ages 3 through 5 allowing students to cultivate a love of learning through collaboration, exploration and multi-sensor y approaches. An alternative, traditional pre-k program is also offered in a more structured classroom environment.

Summit Countr y Day School is an independent, Catholic, coeducational, college-preparator y school, that serves grades preschool through 12. The preschool program is Montessori-based and offers multiple options for 2-6 year olds that include half-day, full-day academic and enrichment programs that consist of cultural studies, geography, science and art. Phonics instruction begins at age 2 and world language instruction begins in Kindergarten. Public speaking, theatrical performances and small group collaboration projects are also introduced in preschool. Private piano and violin lessons for kindergartners are also available.

The Gardner School offers early childhood programs for children ages 6 weeks to 5 years. Their unique learning atmosphere incorporates

a blend of traditional and Montessori styles of learning. All lead teachers must have a degree in early childhood education or elementary education. A general day includes learning activities, outside play and supplemental enrichment activities such as tap, ballet, gymnastics, music, karate, and computer instruction. Health conscious breakfast, lunch and snacks are included.

The Seven Hills School is an independent, nonsectarian, nonprofit, coeducational school serving students in grades preschool through 12. Preschool and kindergarten children areas of study include creative writing/grammar, drama, foreign language, handwriting, math, music, physical education, reading, science, social studies and basic computer skills.

St. Ursula Villa offers both traditional and Montessori preschool and kindergarten. Both also include field trips and guest presenters/ programs, classes with specialty teachers in art, music, library science, physical education and computer, French and LEAP (Learning Enrichment Activities Programs).

The Good Shepherd Catholic Montessori (formerly, Queen of Angel’s Montessori) strives to integrate Montessori practices with children’s spiritual and moral formation. The early education program consists of eight 3-year-olds, eight 4-year-olds, and eight kindergarten students. Preschool children attend half days while kindergartners stay for full days. Curriculum covers The Skills of Daily Living, Exploring the World, and Working Outdoors: Expanding the Classroom Boundaries, in addition to math, language, science, geography, art and music.

The Rockwern Academy is a Jewish private school with a mission to “integrate Jewish values, history, literacy and culture into a rich general and Judaic curriculum which fosters a passion for life-long learning, a strong Jewish identity, and a connection to Israel.”

Serving children from age 2 to 4, the preschool classes are small, and there are opportunities for gym, music and Hebrew enrichment.

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A local private school may offer your child the advantages he or she needs to forge ahead at an accelerated pace thus placing them in a position for further achievement in the world of higher education.

Elementary Advantages At the elementary and middle school level, kids can go above and beyond the ordinary with the following private school options.

The elementary and middle school programs at the Montessori Academy of Cincinnati feature intensive study in math, language arts, science, cultural studies, history and geography. Art, computer, music, physical education, Spanish and science enrichment are also offered as are a wide variety of after-school clubs and activities such as drama, volleyball, soccer, art, Spanish, Latin, fencing, chess, flag football, basketball and tennis. The school also holds a science and fine arts fairs each year.

Cincinnati Country Day School elementary education focuses on increasing a love of learning and gaining self confidence through hands-on experiences, increased independence, collaboration, self exploration, self-discovery, risk taking, and more advanced reasoning/critical thinking skills. In grades 5-8, educators strive to keep emotional and social development entwined with intellectual development. As a result, students learn in a wide variety of unique ways, engaging in mock simulations of historical events, serving as “junior naturalists” to help first graders understand botany, creating “selfless self-portraits” in art and acting out skits to explore character issues in drama.

In grades 1-4 at Summit Country Day School, literacy concentration includes systematic phonics instruction and exposure to rich literature. A writing program teaches writing mechanics are develops research skills. The math program focuses on critical thinking, problem-solving and conceptual understanding. A science specialist leads curriculum in state of the art science labs. In addition, Spanish and French languages and numerous athletic programs are also available, as is a fine arts facility and music studio.

In grades 5-8 an extensive writing program is offered and the “Language of Literature Program” strengthens comprehension, evaluation, appreciation and creative thinking. Students enjoy inquiryled science instruction within state of the art laboratories and beyond to include Cincinnati Zoo, Woodland Altars and Ohio state champion Science Olympiad teams. A “World Language Program,”

music, art, leadership and character education programming and competitive athletics are also available.

Seven Hills School for the middle school student is a process of self-discovery. Classrooms are laboratories where children are encouraged to venture into the unknown and ask probing questions, design experiments and get their hands dirty in the process. Athletics, writing labs, art studios and musical performances, assemblies, field trips and service projects are also part of the learning process.

Additional clubs and activities such as Roots and Shoots (an environmental and humanitarian service club), Science Club, Student Senate and intramural sports are also offered.

Rockwern Academy’s lower school consists of kindergarten through grade 4. Academic curriculum includes general studies, Judaic studies, and fine arts. Teachers work collaboratively to integrate learning experiences across subject areas and activities. The focus for students in grades 5-8 is grounded in academic offerings, however, the middle school is where there is increased emphasis on leadership and Judaic studies. The culmination of the middle school experience is a 2-week trip to Israel.

St. Ursula Villa students in grades 1-3 enjoy a strong literature-based language arts program including reading, writing, speaking, spelling and grammar. Math, science, social studies and daily religious education are also part of the curriculum. Grades 4-6 receive daily instruction in religious education and opportunities for prayer, worship and service to community. Besides core curriculum, field trips and guest presenters also enrich learning. Students in grades 7-8 move into an academically rigorous program with an emphasis on responsibility, independence and leadership. Students also enjoy opportunities for leadership development, field trips, guest presenters, an eighth grade musical and participation in clubs and social activities.

Reaching High in High School The most challenging time in a young man or woman’s life is often their first step into high school. A local private school may offer your child the advantages he or she needs to forge ahead at an accelerated pace, placing them in a position for further achievement in the world of higher education.

High school students at Cincinnati Country Day School are encouraged to think independently as they make decisions about their own areas of study and extra activities. On any given day, students might be developing pictures in a darkroom, putting Hamlet on trial in an English class or discussing Candide in French. All students are assigned to a teacher advisor who mentors the student throughout their high school career and keeps track of their academic, athletic, artistic and personal progress.

Summit Country Day School High School course offerings include a nationally recognized writing program where students are often published in the Concord Review, a literary guide that publishes the top 3% of papers submitted nationally from high school students. A philosophy program, in which students share, discuss and discover subjects on their own, without lectures, is also offered. A comprehensive fine arts program that includes graphic design, photography, sculpture, AP music theory, vocal performance, instrumental music and theater arts is available as is a 21st Century Leadership Program.

St. Ursula Academy is a Catholic, college-preparatory, secondary school for young women.

The administrators, faculty and staff are dedicated to “unleashing the potential of each student to become a woman of faith, integrity and courage committed to building a better world.”

Beyond the college-preparatory curriculum, SUA has an extensive fine arts academic program that then extends into nationally recognized co-curricular programs. St. Ursula also offers community service and service learning, a wide range of athletics and dozens of clubs to fit any interest. Every student in grades 9-12 works on a Tablet PC. St. Ursula is a leader in education technology and was the first girls high school in the area to start at Tablet PC program. Students are taught how to gather, organize, and share information as part of their comprehensive education.

Archbishop Moeller High School is a Catholic school for young men. Moeller offers a comprehensive college prep curriculum as well as honors and advanced placement programs.

Their one-to-one tablet laptop program provides laptops to all students. With on-going technology training for students and faculty, the laptop has become an important tool for the learning process at Moeller. Along with research, the laptop is used for numerous tasks including communication, digital texts, and specialized software applications.

Rebecca Todd is a freelance writer and author of the book What’s the Point?

-- Looking for Logic in Modern America.

22 CINCINNATI PARENT * SEPTEMBER 2010

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM 23

Childcare & Education Directory Child Care/Preschool Chai Tots Early Childhood Center

7587 Central Parke Blvd., Mason, OH 45040 (513)234-0600 www.chaitots.com Grades: 6 weeks - 6 years Enrollment: 40 Academic excellence via unique blend of Montessori method and traditional Jewish education. Chai Tots teaches children the culture and traditions of Judaism, while developing their creativity skills and promoting independence. Flexible schedule. Before and Aftercare.

the compass school 9370 Waterstone Blvd., Cincinnati, OH 45249 Contact: Laura Carr Phone: 513-683-8833 Email: CompassLC@yahoo.com URL: www.TheCompassSchool.com Ages 6 weeks-6 years plus after school & summer camp up to age 12. Offering outstanding ReggioInspired full and part-time Infant, Toddler, Two’s, and Preschool programs, as well as Kindergarten, After School, and Summer Camp for schoolage children. Degreed teachers, extensive parent communication, and welcoming family environment. Setting the standard in early care and education. Call today for your personal tour.

the gardner school of blue ash 9920 Carver Road, Cincinnati, OH 45242 513-985-9444 www.TheGardnerSchool.com ages 6 weeks - Pre-K

This award-winning, academically focused preschool has recently opened in the Blue Ash Community. You want the best for your child, and so do we. With our nationally-recognized curriculum taught by our degreed teaching faculty, we are committed to providing a nurturing environment for learning readiness where your child can prepare for academic achievement and lifelong success.

24 CINCINNATI PARENT * SEPTEMBER 2010

JELC - Jewish Early Learning Cooperative 3101 Clifton Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45220 Contact: Janella Johnson Phone: 513-221-1979 Email: jelchuc@yahoo.com Website: http://www.jelconline.org Grades: 3 months to 3 years Enrollment: 25 Nonprofit cooperative, open to public

The JELC Early Learning Cooperative provides childcare for infants and children ages 3 months to 3 years. Experienced staff provide a nurturing and stimulating environment with parents onsite during the day to help keep the center clean and safe.

JELC values a diverse community. While we enjoy access to HUC’s campus and celebrate Jewish holidays and traditions, children and families of any (or no) faith, race, and ethnicity make up JELC’s current enrollment and are welcome at JELC. Pleasant Ridge Presbyterian Nursery School 5950 Montgomery Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45213 (513)631-0170 www.prpc.org Grades: 2 1/2 - 5 years, Parent/Child classes birth to 32 months Enrollment: 65

Professionally qualified teachers provide active, expressive, childcentered learning experiences at this 3-star award-winning program. Choose 2, 3, 4, or 5 day AM or PM sessions. Excellent ratios, degreed teachers and spacious, sunny, classrooms await your preschooler. Parent and child classes also available for babies and toddlers.

Montessori Central Montessori Academy 1904 Springdale Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45231 Laura Saylor 513-742-5800 laura@centralmontessoriacademy.com www.centralmontessoriacademy.com

Infancy through Sixth Grade Enrollment: 110

At C.M.A., children (infants through sixth-graders) learn at their pace, building self-esteem while being taught as individuals.

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

Country hills montessori 4400 Glen Este Withamsville, Cincinnati, OH 45236 Susan Schreiber, Owner 513-793-2808 sschreiberchm@yahoo.com www.chmschools.com Grades: 3 - K Providing half day programs for 3 to K. Small, individualized classes with low student-teacher ratios, under the guidance of Montessori certified teachers, in an inter-generational enviornment. Multiple Locations in Cincinnati, Harrison and West Chester Ohio and in Ft. Thomas and Erlanger KY. Visit chmschools.com for all location addresses & phone numbers.

Montessori Academy of Cincinnati 8293 Duke Blvd., Mason, OH 45040 (513)398-7773 www.montacademy.org Grades: 3 years – 8th grade Enrollment: 300

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

State Chartered. AMS Affiliated. Extended Care available onsite.

The New School Montessori 3 Burton Woods Lane, Cincinnati, OH 45229 (513)281-7999 www.thenewschool.cc Grades: 3 year-olds through 6th Grade Enrollment: 150

Founded on Montessori principles in 1970, our wooded playgrounds, home-cooked meals and family-like setting in

North Avondale’s Mitchell Mansion provide a stimulating and nurturing environment for learning. We value diversity and create a caring and supportive community. Our graduates excel academically, but more importantly are empowered as citizens of our global community. (Accredited by AMS and ISACS).

Summit Country Day School 2161 Grandin Road, Cincinnati, OH 45208 (513)871-4700 www.summitcds.org Montessori Age 2 - Grade 12 Enrollment: 1100

The state-of-the-art Lower School is home to the Montessori Program where children ages 2 to 6 receive a world-class academic and enrichment curriculum. Multiple programs include a new Montessori Toddler Program for 2 yr. olds and full and half-day programs for ages 3-6. Before- and aftercare, and holiday care available.

The Child’s Place 4936 Old Irwin Simpson Rd, Mason, OH 45040 (513)398-6928 www.montacademy.org Grades: 6 weeks through 4 years Enrollment: 150

Montessori Early Childhood Program! Exceptionally low ratios in a nurturing environment! Our 2-acre campus provides bike and cart paths. Separate play areas for toddlers and preschoolers.

Spanish and Music classes offered! Full-time and Part-time available. AMS Affiliate

Non-Public Cincinnati Country Day School 6905 Given Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45243 Phone: (513)979-0220 Grades: Early Childhood (18 months) – 12th grade Enrollment: 800

CCDS is an independent, co-educational school dedicated to educational excellence serving students 18 months through Grade 12. The School is nationally recognized for its innovative, integrated laptop computer program. Extended day and tuition assistance is available.

Rockwern Academy 8401 Montgomery Road, Cincinnati, OH 45236 Contact: Gail Sperling Phone: 984-3770 x3112 Email: gasperling@rockwernacademy.org Website: http://www.rockwernacademy.org Grades: Preschool (age 2) through grade 8.

Rockwern Academy, founded in 1952 as Cincinnati’s community Jewish day school, offers a superior and balanced academic program that is integrated with and informed by Jewish culture, values and identity. Small class sizes and individualized instruction allow students to be intellectually engaged, spiritually aware, and socially responsible. New innovative Tuition Assistance Initiatives in place for preschool through grade 6. Call 984-3770, x3112 for enrollment information or to schedule a tour.

St. Ursula Villa 3660 Vineyard Place, Cincinnati, OH 45226 (513)871-7218 Preschool – 8th grade Enrollment: 496

Academic excellence in the Ursuline tradition for boys and girls in preschool through 8th grade. Whole-child development, family atmosphere, dedicated faculty, Montessori or Traditional preschool options, small class size, individual attention, outstanding high school preparation Summit Country Day School 2161 Grandin Road (513)871-4700 www.summitcds.org Grades: Age 2 - Grade 12 Enrollment: 1100

Founded in 1890, the area’s only independent, Catholic, coed, college-prep school serving students age 2 - Grade 12 is recognized as a leader in formalized Character Education, Credo.

A diverse community of students benefit from a rich, classical and challenging curriculum within three contiguous divisions.

Extensive athletic and visual arts programs campus-wide.

Special Needs Linden Grove School, Specialized Learning for the Whole Child 4122 Myrtle Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45236 (513)984-2215

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM 25

www.lindengroveschool.org Special Needs Grades: Kindergarten - 8th grade We provide a unique environment that focuses on serving children who are on the autism spectrum, have ADD/ADHD, learning disabilities, and communication disorders. Linden Grove provides a quality school environment to children who aren’t “fitting in” their current school’s program and thus are not learning and developing to their full potential.

Working in partnership with families is a vital component in creating an integrated K-8 learning environment that combines academics, social skills and therapies in order to help the whole child achieve academically and socially.

Springer School and Center 2121 Madison Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45208 Phone: (513)871-6080 Website: http://www.springer-ld.org Grades: 1st - 8th grade Enrollment: 190

Since 1971, Springer School & Center has empowered students with learning disabilities to lead successful lives. Today, Springer teaches learning strategies to day-school students, provides information and referral services to the community, and offers programs for students, parents, and teachers. Springer School & Center is the only resource in the region dedicated entirely to learning disabilities. For more info, call (513)871-6080 or go to www.springer-ld.org.

The Springer Experience. Success Changes Everything.

Virtual/Distance Ohio Virtual Academy Best performing eSchool in Ohio (866)339-9072 www.ohva.org Grades: Kindergarten – 10th grade Enrollment: 3,300

Ohio Virtual Academy helps your K-10 children obtain an excellent public school education, tuition free! Under the guidance of licensed teachers, parents help their children learn at home using K12’s comprehensive curriculum and educational materials.

26 CINCINNATI PARENT * SEPTEMBER 2010

Open House Guide Archbishop McNicholas High School 6536 Beechmont Avenue, Cincinnati, Oh 45230 Phone: 513-231-3500 Website: http://www.mcnhs.org Open House Dates: Sunday, November 7, 2010 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Archbishop McNicholas High School promotes a Christ-centered, Catholic community. Each student is embraced spiritually, intellectually, and morally in a safe, nurturing, and challenging campus that offers 13 Advanced Placement courses, 25 fine and performing arts electives, and 23 different sports. The average class size is 19 and 99% of graduates further their education.

Ballet Theatre Midwest at Spencer Township Hall 3833 Eastern Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45226 Phone: (513)520-2334 Email: ballettheatremidwest@fuse.net /www.ballettheatremidwest.com Open House Dates: FREE Open House August 30-September 4 Stop in and visit our brand new location!

Free classes available, register for Fall 2010.

“Grace, beauty creativity, movement!

Experience the joy of dance at Ballet Theatre Midwest. Our nurturing environment, professional faculty and lovely facility offers the finest in classical dance training for ages 3 adult. Age appropriate training and performance opportunities for all students.”

The Summit Country Day School 2161 Grandin Road, Cincinnati (Hyde Park), OH 45208 Phone: 513-871-4700 Website: http://www.summitcds.org Open House Dates: PARENT PREVIEW DAYS Montessori PreK-K (ages 2-6) Tues., Oct. 26, 2010, 8:45 a.m.

Tues., Nov. 9,2010, 8:45 a.m.

Lower School & Middle School (Grades 1-8) Thurs., Nov. 11, 2010, 8:45 a.m.

Upper School Open House (Grades 9-12) Thurs., Nov. 18, 2010, 6:30 p.m.

Founded in 1890, The Summit is the areas only Catholic, independent, college-preparatory school serving 1100 students from age 2 -Gr.12. A nationally recognized character-building program, Credo, focuses upon the qualities of respect, responsibility and honesty. Through scholarship, service, creativity, and physical drive, graduates distinguish themselves nationally. Tuition assistance is available to qualifying families from PreK–12; merit-based scholarships are available in Gr. 7-12

Cincinnati Country Day School 6905 Given Road, Cincinnati, OH 45243 Phone: (513) 979-0220 Email: admission@countryday.net Website: http://www.countryday.net Open House Dates: November 3, 2010 November 10, 2010 February 16, 2011 May 11, 2011. Individual appointments are available M-F, 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Bethany School 555 Albion Ave., Glendale, OH 45246 Phone: 513-771-7462 www.bethanyschool.org Open House Dates: Sunday, Nov. 7, 2010 from 2:00pm-4:00pm Sunday, Feb. 13, 2011 from 2:00pm-4:00pm

Seven Hills School 5400 Red Bank Road, Cincinnati, OH 45227 Phone: (513) 271-9027 Website: www.7hills.org Open House: October 17 The Seven Hills School is an independent, nonsectarian, nonprofit, coeducational school serving students in grades PK-12 from 65 Greater Cincinnati zip codes. Located on two campuses, Seven Hills provides an education of superior quality in a college preparatory program which emphasizes academic excellence, individual expression and development, and service to school and community.

John XXIII Catholic School 3806 Manchester Road, Middletown, OH 45042 Contact: Brenda Neu Phone: 513-424-1196 Open House Dates: Thursday, February 3rd with a snow date of Thursday, February 10th.

Kennedy Heights Montessori Center 6120 Ridge Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45213 Phone: (513) 631-8135

kennedyheightsmontessori.org Open House Dates: Wed. Feb. 2, 2011

Kinder Garden School Blue Ash 10969 Reed Hartman Hwy, Blue Ash, OH 45242 Phone: 513-791-4300 www.kindergardenschool.com Open House Dates: Thursdays in September October 7, 14, 21, 28 November 4, 11, 18

Montessori Academy of Cincinnati 8293 Duke Blvd., Mason, OH 45040 Phone: 513-398-7773 Website: http://www.montacademy.org Open House Dates: January 23, 2011 1-3 p.m.

Montessori Center Room 2505 Riverside Drive, Cincinnati, OH 45202 Phone: 513-321-3282 www.montessoricenterroom.com Open House Dates: Sunday, November 7, 2010, 1-3PM

The New School Montessori 3 Burton Woods Lane, Cincinnati, OH 45229 Phone: (513)281-7999 www.thenewschool.cc Open House Dates: Sunday, November 14, 2010 2PM-4PM Sunday, January 30, 2011 2PM-4PM

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM 27

d l i h E xceptional C on Creating Good IEP’s for Kids with Autism

Embracing the "Individual" Focus of Individual Education Plans What makes an IEP successful for kids with autism and other special needs? By all accounts, measurable goals and a collaborative IEP team environment are two giant steps in the right direction. There is still more parents should know about developing this important plan for their child.

Following are key tips on how to create a successful IEP.

Know present levels of performance.

To know where a child is going, the IEP team must know where the child is. Present levels of performance should be clear, measurable and written into the IEP. Write measurable goals into plan. ”The most important aspects of an IEP are the goals and objectives. They drive the education of the child,” says Amanda Tipkemper-Sparks, executive director for the Cincinnati Center for Autism. Measurable goals ensure a child’s progress can be well tracked in order to determine if the goal has been mastered or not within the allotted time identified within the IEP. If the goal has been mastered, then a new goal can be put in its place to expand upon that skill area. If the goal has not been mastered, steps can be taken to determine why the goal has not been achieved, and as a result, different teaching methods can be assessed.

Make it a comprehensive plan. Parents can help create a comprehensive IEP for their child with autism with goals that address many areas of academic development.

These may include speech/language goals, direction following goals, social and play goals, and any academic goals that are appropriate for the child’s age and development level. In short, the plan should look at a child’s diagnosis, break it down and address those issues.

Attach a timeframe to goals. Parents should require that timeframes more specific than a sweeping 2010/2011 school year placed on each goal.

This will help the child continue to progress rather than plateau or regress in the event they master a skill early 28 CINCINNATI PARENT * SEPTEMBER 2010

in the year. If no specific timeframe is attached to a mastered goal, then the child risks losing the achievement because the school’s focus may shift away from that task.

Be specific with goals. Parents need to know what skill they want their child with autism to master and explain it well on the IEP. Simply saying the child should work on social skills tells the teacher nothing. It is better to be specific: Johnny needs to work on responding to initiations for attention.

Keep the “individualized” in the IEP. Parents should ask during the IEP team meeting if other kids in the classroom have the same goal or goals as their child. This will help the child avoid working toward cookie cutter goals that are not specific enough to his or her unique needs.

Of course, the team cannot disclose who has what goals, but they can say whether or not another student has the same goal.

Track goals alongside state standards. Goals written into the IEP should connect to statewide standards for students at the child’s grade level.

Say no to rollover goals. Parents should not allow the same goals to rollover from one IEP to the next.

Even if a goal is not yet mastered, write different methodology for achieving the goal into the plan. Tipkemper-Sparks suggests the IEP include what methods have been tried, failed and need to change so there is a paper trail. “Rollover goals are a huge red flag,” she says.

Sleep on it. If parents aren’t comfortable signing the IEP at the annual IEP meeting, then they shouldn’t do it. They can take it home, review it and bring suggestions or questions back to the IEP team as necessary. Parents should, however, let the team know their intention to not sign it at the meeting so everyone is prepared.

Not signing the IEP is an option.

What if a parent doesn’t agree with an IEP? Then don’t sign it. The worstcase scenario is the school will have to fall back on the expired IEP, which the school and the state don’t want to do.

Call a trained advocate. Parents should call a trained advocate if they are concerned their child is not making progress, feel as though the teachers or school are not supporting what they want for their child, or are just overall anxious or confused about the IEP process. Support services from private agencies like the Cincinnati Center for Autism or nonprofits such as the Ohio Coalition for the Education of Children with Disabilities are ready and able to support parents through the process.

Recognize the team. A collaborative and positive team environment is an important part of building a solid IEP. “Parents should absolutely take the time with the team to recognize the work they’ve done and tell them great job. Celebrate successes,” says Tipkemper-Sparks.

Carrie Bishop is a freelance writer and mother of two young sons whose daily antics inspire her work and her life. Contact her at

freelancewritercarrie@gmail.com

Gauging an IEP’s Effectiveness Individualized Education Programs — Making the Most of a Living Document Meet with IEP team in spring. Check. Sign off on agreed-upon IEP. Check. Enjoy summer, go back to school, and see that IEP is in effect. Check. Check. Check. Leave IEP on autopilot—not so fast.

A good IEP, or individualized education plan, is a living document, not an annual permission slip to sign and forget. In fact, it is not uncommon for IEPs to be revised throughout the year as dictated by the child’s unique and evolving needs. Parents must also know their involvement and advocacy throughout the special education process is critical to their child’s performance.

That is where good working relationships come in. An IEP team should be able to address the value or thought behind the goal and it should tie back to standards set for all kids at the student’s grade level.

In other words, parents need to understand how their child’s goals and subsequently the progress toward the goals stack up to Ohio’s standards for all children.

A good IEP, or individualized education plan, is a living document, not an annual permission

Data ARE King Whether the stated goals within the IEP are academic, functional, behavioral or social, a child must consistently work toward the written goals and his or her progress is to be reported back to the parent on a regular basis, typically every nine weeks or per the school’s standard report card cycle. Ideally the goals written into the IEP are measurable. If not, make that a priority. Repeat: make measurable goals a priority. Measurable goals based on a child’s present levels of performance and written into an IEP add a level of accountability to the plan and provide insight into the effectiveness of the program. Loose goals, however well intentioned, can lead to substandard support.

Fortunately parents are becoming more sophisticated in their approach to IEPs and now know that data are the best way to gauge their child’s progress. The schools are required by law to report on the progress of the goal until it’s mastered.

So, how does a parent know if a measurable goal is worthwhile?

After all, what does it really mean if a goal says the student will label a certain six shapes with 80 percent accuracy three out of five times?

slip to sign and forget.

Bill Bogdan, assistant superintendent at Hamilton County Educational Service Center, takes it a step further. If there is no connection to what a child who is receiving special education is doing back to core standards, then it could be said the child is being handicapped by being removed from what is expected of all kids. Teachers, or the IEP team, may modify what is expected or taught of the child, but there still should be a connection back to core standards. In other words if a child is doing more community-based or functional curriculum, schools should connect what that child is doing to statewide standards.

Status Check So, when should you check in on the progress your child is making toward his or her goals? Officially parents are required to meet with the IEP team once a year and a school is to report progress toward goals on the same timeline that typical students receive reports. Bogdan, however, says it should be more fluid than that. Regular ongoing communication may

be appropriate depending on what is agreed to amongst the IEP team members.

“Even though, by law, you are required to do an annual meeting, it does not mean there isn’t an agreement for more frequent meetings. The parent and IEP team may see a need to meet quarterly to make sure we’re making progress on goals,” says Bogdan.

So, there really is no one answer. The progress each child makes is as individual as the plan and will vary; yet, some goals simply need to move faster than others.

“There’s no magic timeline to it. A parent has the right to call an IEP meeting any time they want. They don’t have to wait until the first quarter is over,” says Kim Hauck, director of children’s services for the Hamilton County Developmental Disabilities Services.

For instance, an academic goal may be given more time than a behavioral goal. If a student is exhibiting behavior that is escalating, then waiting nine weeks for a progress report does not make sense. Of course, both Bogdan and Hauck say anytime a parent feels like their child is struggling and not making progress, they have the right to request a meeting with the team.

This is a point all experts stress. Parents can call an IEP meeting whenever they see fit. Legally, parents are as much a part of the IEP team as school personnel. After all, an IEP is not a contract until the parent signs off on it and the state wants that signature.

Plus who knows the child better than his or her parent? Insights of parents are an essential part of the process.

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM 29

The main thing is parents should feel empowered to bring everyone on the IEP team together to discuss their child’s progress or lack thereof. It is in the best interest of the child for details of the discussion, particularly what teaching methods are or are not working, to be documented. Then, discuss what changes need to be made in order to help the child progress.

A paper trail will leave less room for personal interpretation of the IEP. Should school data show a child is making progress, yet the parent questions the findings, then the parent has the right to request an independent evaluation be done at the expense of the school to collect more data. The school, of course, does not have to agree to move forward with the request. The parent can then escalate their case and move toward resolving the dispute with the school district through due process; though this can be expensive, emotional and time consuming. Not ideal, but sometimes necessary.

Eyes on the Prize Throughout the day-to-day and year-to-year trials associated with an IEP, it’s important for parents to remember their ultimate goal for their child. Even in elementary school, parents should focus on high school and beyond so they build an IEP that will help their child on into adulthood. Look to the time when the school bus stops coming.

“How does this [IEP] scaffold fit into the journey throughout education that will give my child the most opportunity to be independent as an adult, in the work environment, living environment, recreation environment. How does it build my child’s success,” says Bogdan.

Carrie Bishop is a freelance writer and mother of two young sons whose daily antics inspire her work and her life. Contact her at freelancewritercarrie@gmail.com

Check out what’s happening in Greater Cincinnati this month for the special needs community...

5th Annual Autism Expo When: Sat., Sept. 5, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Where: Live Oaks Campus, Milford Cost: Free Contact:Visit www.autismexpo. org for more information Rising Star Studios open house and new classroom tour When: Wed., Sept. 8, 5 - 7 p.m.

Where: New Perceptions, One Sperti Dr., Edgewood Cost: Free Contact: Brenda Zechmeister at 859-344-9322

Resource Center, 5989 Meijer Drive Suite #9, Milford Cost: Free Contact: 513-444-4979

Cost: Free and open to the public Contact: Register at www.WeTeachReading. com or 513-531-7400

What Parents Should Know...About Reading & Comprehension, part of a Langsford Learning Center educational series When: Tues., Sept. 14, 4:30 - 6 p.m.; Tues., Sept. 28, 9:30 - 11 a.m.

Where: Langsford Learning Acceleration Centers, Blue Ash 9402 Towne Square Ave., Cincinnati

When: Sat., Sept. 18, 9 a.m.

Where: Riverboat Row, Newport Cost: No registration fees Contact: Register at www. walk.jdrf.org

Walk to Cure Diabetes

Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities’ Family Fun Day When: Sat., September

18, noon - 4 p.m.

Where: Warren County Miracle Field Ball Park, 1605 S. Main St., Springboro Cost: Free Contact: Dawn McKenna, 513-695-1857, Dawn.

McKenna@co.warren.oh.us Know of an upcoming event benefitting Greater Cincinnati’s special needs community?

Email Carrie Bishop at freelancewritercarrie@ gmail.com.

4th Annual Ride for a Cause and Family Party, benefiting the Butler County Board of Developmental Disabilities When: Sat., Sept. 11, 11 a.m.

Where: Tri-County Harley Davidson Store, 5960 Dixie Highway, Fairfield Cost: $20 Contact: Call 513-867-5962 ext.

22 or email info@butlerdd.org

Families with ASD Single Parent Support Group When: Sat., Sept. 11, 2 - 3:30 p.m.

Where: Families with ASD Autism

An IEP is as individual as the child for which it is written. Yet, there are a few general rules you can abide by to make the long and winding IEP road a success for your child.

ways

to Make Your IEP

WORK

30 CINCINNATI PARENT * SEPTEMBER 2010

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Be an involved parent and advocate for your child

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Build good working relationships with IEP team members

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Make sure the IEP team understands your child’s present levels of performance before drafting IEP goals

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Ensure all IEP goals are documented and measurable

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Request data to prove progress toward IEP goals

6.

Meet with IEP team if progress toward IEP goals is in question

7.

Document what is and is not helping your child progress

8.

Always monitor your child’s progress toward goals

9.

Request an independent evaluation if necessary

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Always keep long-term goals for your child in mind

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Se p tem b e r 2010 Wednesday 1 Cincinnati Reds VS Milwaukee Brewers

Come support the Reds at home as they take on the Brewers! 7:10 pm. Ticket Prices Vary. Great American Ballpark. 100 Nuxhall Way, Cincinnati OH. www.reds.com. 513-381-7337.

Homeschool Network of Greater Cincinnati Parent Networking Meeting Find out about Homeschooling in Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana at these network information meetings.

Please see our web site for monthly meeting date, time, and topics. Also, contact information is available on the web. www.hsncincy.com.

Thursday 2

Anderson Hills MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) Join other moms of children of ages birth through kindergarten in a fun, relaxing, helpful atmosphere.

Each month a new topic is discussed relating to the world of motherhood. 9:30-11:30. Anderson Hills United Methodist Church. 7515 Forest Rd (Corner of Beechmont and Forest), Anderson Township OH. www.andersonhillsumc.org/mops.php.

(513) 231-4172.

Friday 3

Creek Romp and Canoe Exploration at Long Branch Farm and Trails: Discover the marvels of the stream on this guided, in-the-stream hybrid hike and canoe exploration at Long Branch Farm & Trails. 1- 3 p.m. or 4-6 p.m.

Members free; nonmember adults $6, children $3.

Cincinnati Nature Center. 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford OH. www.CincyNature.org. 513-8311711.

Saturday 4 Cirque Devou

The KSO teams up with Circus Mojo for high-wire high-jinx. The Devou bandshell transforming into a multi-ring circus with trapeze artists, acrobats, daring feats of skill and those zany clowns. Ringling Bros. veterans will appear to the traditional sounds

of the circus, courtesy of the KSO. 7:30 p.m.

FREE! Devou Park Bandshell. www.kyso.org.

859-431-6216.

Garden Railroading “Track and Trackwork” Workshop Join Us! This workshop will cover - manufacturers and what they offer, to cut or not to cut?, sectional vs. flexible, rail joints and electrical continuity plus “Mother Nature’s Tricks”. 10:30am. FREE. EnterTRAINment Junction. 7379 Squire Road, West Chester OH. entertrainmentjunction.com.

513-898-8000.

Guinness Oyster Festival An all-day event celebrating Irish heritage with an aphrodisiac cuisine! Noon-11pm. Free Admission.

Fountain Square. Fifth and Vine Streets, Cincinnati OH. myfountainsquare.com/oyster.

513-763-8036.

Sunday 5 16th Annual Rubber Duck Regatta

Duck Season is Open! Do you know what 100,000 rubber ducks looks like? Come down to the river and find out!

100,000 ducks will be dropped into the Ohio River to race 100 yards along the Serpentine Wall during the 16th Annual Rubber Duck Regatta, the Freestore Foodbank’s largest fundraiser. Starts at 3:00PM. $5 Per Duck. Sawyer Point & Yeatman’s Cove. www. rubberduckregatta.org. 513-929-DUCK.

Cheetah Run Running and Cincinnati Zoo enthusiasts alike will enjoy a stunning NEW course that winds its way through the Zoo, highlighting our brilliant gardens and exotic animal exhibits. Also NEW this year, each runner will be equipped with chip-timing at the start and finish line that will give real-time, accurate race results. NEW Dri-Fit shirts will be included in each runners pre-registration fee, with a limited number of shirts available for purchase the day of the race. *Race day registration does not

include a shirt. Back by popular demand, the FREE Cheetah Cub Fun Run for children 12 and under!

The NEW course starts and ends at Vine Street Village. All participants will receive a ribbon as they cross the finish line. No pre-registration required.

8AM. Registration Fees: $30 (Nonmembers) and $25 (Members). Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden. 3400 Vine Street, Cincinnati OH. www. cincinnatizoo.org. (513) 281-4700.

Monday of every month. Please RSVP by phone to 513-921-5454. Check us out at www. amazingportablecircus.com . 7:30pm. Free.

Essex Studios. 501 Minnesota Street, Cincinnati Ohio. www.amazingportablecircus.com.

513-921-5454.

Tuesday 7

Happiest Baby on the Block!

Riverfest/ WEBN Labor Day Fireworks In Cincinnati, the big holiday for fireworks is not the Fourth of July but Labor Day weekend.

Cincinnatians bid farewell to summer with a pyrotechnic blowout on the banks of the Ohio River. Hundreds of thousands of people come to see the waterskiing, sky diving, and air shows. The party ends with a spectacular 30-minute fireworks display over the river. Hanging flowers of light and waterfalls of sparks are choreographed to music broadcast live on the local WEBN radio station.

Noon - End of Fireworks. FREE. Sawyer Point & Yeatman’s Cove. www.riverfestcincinnati.com.

(513) 352-4000.

Monday 6

Doggie Doo-Athlon and Festival Presented by Blue Ash Recreation Department. Run and swim with your dog. Run 1.5 miles and swim 25 yards in shallow end of the pool to compete for prizes. Registration includes human t-shirt, doggie bandana and free admission to open swim and festival all day. Benefits HART and Therapy Pets of Greater Cincinnati. Come and join us for a friendly competition with your best friend in the Doo-Athlon or just come to the Festival to swim in the pool and visit pet-oriented retailers. 9:30AM. $20-$25. Blue Ash Recreation Department. 4343 Cooper Road, Cincinnati OH. www.blueash.com. 513.745.8500.

Amazing Portable Circus presents Magic Mondays The Amazing Portable Circus is offering a free Magic show in our studio on the first

Learn how to turn on your newborn’s Calming Reflex — the extraordinary “off-switch” for crying all babies are born with! New babies are such a blessing, but they can also bring with them sleepless nights, crying, & sometimes quite a bit of stress! In this 2-hour innovative workshop you will be taught step-by-step how to help your newborn sleep better & how to soothe even the fussiest baby in minutes!

Magic? A miracle? No, it’s a reflex! 6:45pm.

Registration is $50/couple. University Hospital.

234 Goodman Street, Cincinnati OH. www. universityhospitalcincinnati.com. 513-5841000.

Learn about Volunteering!

This fall, attend a Volunteer Exploration Session to discover the many volunteer opportunities available at CNC. Find a good fit for your talents, interests and schedule. 10- 11 a.m. members free; nonmembers pay daily admission. Cincinnati Nature Center/ Rowe Woods. 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford OH. www.CincyNature.org.

513-831-1711.

Wednesday 8

Back to School: New School Group Leader Orientation CNC is gearing up for another great year of school group field trips. We need YOUR help! If you think you might enjoy sharing nature with students, come to our New School Group Leader Orientation to find out what happens during a typical field trip and what type of training and resources are available to you as a guide. 10 a.m.- 12 p.m. members free; nonmembers pay daily admission. Cincinnati Nature Center/ Rowe Woods. 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford OH. www.CincyNature.org.

513-831-1711.

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Thursday 9

More Signing, Less Whining! teach your child to sign (in Spanish!)

age! Benefits include preverbal communication, earlier speech development, enhanced intellectual development, and less frustration (less crying, fewer tantrums!). SmallTalk, a 2- hour parent workshop is taught by a Spanish speaking Child Sign Language Specialist. A pictorial dictionary of over 100 signs and Signing Safari’s “Teach Your Child to Sign” DVD (a $20 value) are included.

6:45 pm. Registration is $45/couple. University Hospital. 234 Goodman Street, Cincinnati OH. universityhospitalcincinnati.com. (513)584-1000.

Thursday Art Play: Depth Defying Art

“Talk” to your hearing baby or toddler with American Sign Language -as early as 6 months of

Turn that flat paper into art that jumps out at you.

Rick Malette’s work, See Saw Seen, glows and jumps off the wall. Make your own depth defying artwork using natural, household items. 10:30-11:30am.

Free with CAC Admission. Contemporary Arts

Center. 44 E Sixth Street, Cincinnati Oh. www. contemporaryartscenter.org/UnMuseum/ ThursdayArtPlay. 513.345.8400.

Friday 10

Preparing for Night Discover Cincinnati Nature Center at night! Bring your picnic dinner and flashlight to enjoy bluegrass music, ice cream from United Dairy Farmers and a challenging adventure for the whole family along the Edge Trail. This year, explore all new fun and educational stations and a new route! Complete the challenge and receive a prize . 6 p.m.- 10 p.m.

Member adult $5, child $1; nonmember adult $10, child $5. Cincinnati Nature Center/ Rowe Woods. 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford OH. www.

CincyNature.org. 513-831-1711.

fee for audition; Open to the public; $50 for acting-program. Mayerson JCC. 8485 Ridge Road, Cincinnati OH. www.JointheJ.org.

513.761.7500.

Mayerson JCC hosts kids musical performance by Marc Rossio, “The Marvelous Toy” (as part of the 1st Annual Community Arts Centers Day) Open to the public, all ages. The JCC will host fun activities, music, an art exhibit, and a special kidoriented musical performance by Marc Rossio, “The Marvelous Toy.” Contact Info: Courtney Cummings, 513.761.7500, ccummings@ mayersonjcc.org, www.JointheJ.org. 1pm. Free.

Mayerson JCC. 8485 Ridge Rd., Cincinnati OH. www.JointheJ.org. 513.761.7500.

Saturday 11

Monday 13

Join hundreds for Fire Fest! Features a worldqualifying Chili Fest competition and the seventh annual A Ride to Remember Motorcycle Ride.

12 p.m. — 4 p.m. Adults: $7, Seniors (65+): $6, Children (6—17): $5, Children (5. Cincinnati Fire Museum. 315 West Court Street, Cincinnati OH. www.cincyfiremuseum.com. (513) 621-5553.

Tuesday 14

Fire Fest

GRAND OPENING PERFORMANCE & RECEPTION! Please join Ballet Theatre Midwest in celebration of their new location. Performance, tour of new studio space and reception. Excellence in training, performance and community outreach. 5PM. Spencer Township Hall. 3833 Eastern Avenue, Cincinnati OH. www.ballettheatremidwest. com. 513-520-2334.

Semi-Annual MOPS Baby Kids Sale The Semi-Annual MOPS Baby and Kids Sale will be held at Faith Church (5910 Price Rd - Milford) on Saturday, September 11 from 9 - noon. There will be 45+ sellers with gently used, consignment quality children’s clothing, baby furniture, strollers, toys, books, strollers and more. We will open the doors at 850 for the first 10 people in line.

Admission is $1 All sales are CASH ONLY!! You can check out on Facebook at Faith MOPS Baby and Kids Sale. $1. 5910 Price Rd, Milford OH. www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/pages/ mopsbksalegmailcom/Faith-MOPS-Babyand-Kids-Sale/395217840012.

FIND MORE EVENTS AT CINCINNATIPARENT.COM OR SUBSCRIBE TO OUR FREE WEEKLY NEWSLETTER!

Young Chefs Academy Welcomes A Special Guest!

Join us as we welcome Guest Chef Kathy Lehr!

She has an impressive resume, a lot of experience, and has studied under some extremely talented individuals. We are extremely excited to have her at Young Chefs Academy for a Pizzas and Strombolis class. This is a hands on class. You will get to take dough home to try out your new skills to make sure you were paying attention in class!

You will learn how to shape this yummy Italian dough into one of our all time favorites...pizza!!!

There will be a selection of toppings for you to add to your individual size pizza. After making the pizza, you will take the same dough, roll it out, and then fill it with pepperoni and cheeses.

This makes a great treat for all your friends at your weekend sleepover!! . 6:30PM - 8:30PM. $60 each. Young Chefs Academy - Mason.

6649 Western Row Rd., Mason OH. www. youngchefsacademy.com/cincinnati. (513) 770-4267.

Wednesday 15 Meditainment

Sunday 12

Galaxy A-Glow-Go Calling All Space Cadets! Shalom Family, a program of the Jewish community, presents Galaxy A-Glow-Go, a Planetarium and DJ Dance Party!

Featuring Drake Planetariums’ giant domed star lab, laser light show, and painting and space balloons. Plus, make-your-own constellation viewer and party like you’re from another planet at the Kiddie Dance Club, featuring DJ Terry Macklin and DJ Dancer Crazy Legs. This event is open to families with children 10 and younger, in which at least one parent is Jewish. Please note that space is limited and will fill up. Online reservations are mandatory and must be received by September 4th. Sign up today! 4:00PM-6:00PM. FREE. The 20th Century Theatre. 3201 Madison Road, Oakley OH. www.myshalomfamily.org. 513407-8992.

JCC Center Stage Auditions Act, sing, and dance in an original production called “A Great Miracle Happened Here” in the JCC’s professional theater. Rehearsals are Tuesday and Thursday, 4:15 - 6:15pm; additional rehearsals will be scheduled as needed. 1pm. No 32 CINCINNATI PARENT * SEPTEMBER 2010

Leave your worries about the economy behind.

Join us for guided meditation under the stars at Drake Planetarium for a time to relax and rejuvenate with our Meditainment specialists. 7 p.m. $7 in advance, $8 at the door. Discount for Planetarium Members. Drake Science Center.

4557 Montgomery Rd, Cincinnati OH. www. drakeplanetarium.org. (513)396-5578.

Museum Day on the Square Museums & Historic Sites of Greater Cincinnati invites residents and visitors to explore the many historic and cultural gems of the Greater Cincinnati region at Museum Day on Fountain Square. Come and learn about attractions from across the tri-state in one, convenient downtown Cincinnati location. More than two dozen museums and historic sites will be on hand to showcase their programs with costumed interpreters, objects from their collections, and hands-on activities. In the tri-state region, over sixty museums and historic sites are open to the public, each with a unique story to tell. Guests of Museum Day will have the opportunity to explore a variety of interests, such as local history, art, and preservation. 10:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Fountain Square. Fifth and Vine Streets, Cincinnati OH. www.myfountainsquare.com. 513-621-4400.

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Third Thursday Wine Walk - Local Harvest (A benefit for Ohio Valley FoodShed Project ) Each Third Thursday of the month O’Bryonville businesses offer extended hours so prospective buyers can sample complimentary wines and refreshments, while browsing the unique shops of O’Bryonville. Businesses participating in the Wine Walk are open from 5:00 to 8:00 pm. This year not only do the Wine Walks bring fun and friends together, but each month recognizes a charitable organization and every purchase you make during the events is a donation to that special cause. So enjoy the party, the buying, and the giving! 5-8pm. O’Bryonville Business District. 1971-2128 Madison Road, Cincinnati OH. www.obryonville.com. 513-871-2466.

Friday 17

Free Friday at the Cincinnati Museum Center!

Now entering its eighth year, the popular program invites the general public to come experience three major attractions — the Duke Energy Children’s Museum, the Cincinnati History Museum and the Museum of Natural History & Science. As an added bonus, this year’s Free Fridays will include access to Cincinnati Museum Center’s upcoming blockbuster exhibition America I AM: The African American Imprint! Featuring more than 200 rare historic objects, photographs, documents and multimedia detailing nearly five centuries of African Americans’ economic, socio-political, cultural and spiritual contributions, America I AM explores the ways African Americans have contributed to and shaped American culture. And did we mention that each Free Friday will also feature live jazz music as part of Cincinnati Museum Center’s Summer Performance Series? It’s true! 4:00PM - 8:00PM. FREE. Cincinnati Museum Center.

1301 Western Avenue, Cincinnati OH. www. cincymuseum.org. 1.800.733.2077.

Saturday 18

WANT WEEKEND EVENTS? SIGN UP FOR OUR FREE E-NEWSLETTER AND GET WEEKEND EVENTS TO YOUR EMAIL EVERY WEEK! SUBSCRIBE NOW AT CINCINNATIPARENT.COM!

Sunday 19 Cincinnati Bengals VS Baltimore Ravens

Come to Paul Brown Stadium and Cheer on the Cincinnati Bengals as they taken on the Ravens!

1:00PM. Varies Per Ticket. Paul Brown Stadium. 1 Paul Brown Stadium, Cincinnati OH. www.bengals.com. 513-621-TDTD.

Mason Arts Festival Guests will enjoy the work of over 120 local and regional artists. Demonstrating artists working in glass and clay will also be on site. Great food and performing musical arts are a big part of the day, all day. Includes a Children’s Activity Tent, Chalk Walk area and Student Art Exhibit.

Rain or shine. 11am - 5pm. Mason Municipal Building. 6000 Mason-Montgomery Road, Mason OH. www.masonarts.org. (513)5730007.

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Monday 20

Happiest Baby on the Block!

Learn how to turn on your newborn’s Calming Reflex — the extraordinary “off-switch” for crying all babies are born with! New babies are such a blessing, but they can also bring with them sleepless nights, crying, & sometimes quite a bit of stress! In this 2-hour innovative workshop you will be taught step-by-step how to help your newborn sleep better & how to soothe even the fussiest baby in minutes!

Magic? A miracle? No, it’s a reflex! 6:45pm.

Registration is $50/couple. Bethesda Hospital.

10500 Montgomery Road, Cincinnati OH. www. trihealth.com. 513-475-4500.

Tuesday 21

More Signing, Less Whining! teach your child to sign “Talk” to your hearing baby or toddler with American Sign Language -as early as 6 months of age! Benefits include preverbal communication, earlier speech development, enhanced intellectual development, and less frustration (less crying, fewer tantrums!).

SmallTalk, a 2- hour parent workshop is taught by a Child Sign Language Specialist. A pictorial dictionary of over 100 signs and Signing Safari’s “Teach Your Child to Sign” DVD (a $20 value) are included. 6:45 pm. Registration is $45/couple. University Hospital.

234 Goodman Street, Cincinnati OH. www. signingsafari.com. (513) 584-1000.

Circus Experience: Join the Circus for a night Bring your child to join the circus for a night at our Studio in Clifton Ohio. He can learn and see some of the skills that we perform on a daily basis like ballooning and juggling. Please RSVP by phone to 513-921-5454 . 5:45pm - 7:45pm. Free. Essex Studios.

501 Minnesota Street, Cincinnati Ohio. www. amazingportablecircus.com. 513-921-5454.

Wednesday 22

Planetarium Show — Mysteries Of The Universe Come to Drake Planetarium and explore many of the mysteries of our vast universe. Learn to identify the constellations in our fall skies and the stories behind them. A great experience for kids and adults alike. 7 p.m. $6.00 in advance, $7 at the door. Free for Planetarium Members w. Drake Science Center.

4557 Montgomery Rd, Cincinnati OH. www. drakeplanetarium.org. (513)396-5578.

Thursday 23

Happiest Baby on the Block! In Spanish!

Learn how to turn on your newborn’s Calming Reflex — the extraordinary “off-switch” for crying all babies are born with! New babies are such a blessing, but they can also bring with them sleepless nights, crying, & sometimes quite a bit of stress! In this 2-hour innovative workshop, taught in Spanish, you will be taught step-by-step how to help your newborn sleep better & how to soothe even the fussiest baby in minutes! Magic? A miracle? No, it’s a reflex! Class fee includes a Parent Kit containing the HBOB dvd.

6:45pm. Registration is $50/couple. University Hospital. 234 Goodman Street, Cincinnati OH. www.universityhospitalcincinnati.com. 513584-1000.

Friday 24

Leaf Your Worries Behind Fall Fun Celebrate Autumn by painting pottery with the Gals! Our Ladies Night is the perfect Girlfriends Getaway! We supply appetizers and you can BYOB! CINCINNATIPARENT.COM 33

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Sorry, no kiddies- this night is just for the ladies. Call to reserve your space, as they are limited. Sign Up Today!! 6:30- 10 pm. $4 studio fees. The Mad Potter. 7754 Camargo Road, Madeira OH. www.mymadpotter.com. 513-561-1888.

Aladdin: A Musical

Saturday 25

Lebanon Country Applefest

Occurring Each Sunday Beginning Sunday, September 12, 2010 Through Sunday, September 19, 2010. 2 p.m. - 3:30 pm. $7 kids, $12 adults. Clifton Performance Theatre.

404 Ludlow Avenue, Cincinnati OH. www. cliftonperformancetheatre.com. 513-861SHOW (7469).

America I Am: The African American Imprint

Over 100 booths of homemade crafts, food, live entertainment, good apple products to eat, and an Applefest Bake Off! 10AM - 7PM -- Rain or Shine! FREE. Downtown Lebanon. 1-877933-APPL.

Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure Susan G. Komen for the Cure is the world’s largest grassroots network of breast cancer survivors and activists fighting to save lives, empower people, ensure quality care for all and energize science to find the cures. Thanks to events like the Komen Race for the Cure, we have invested nearly $1 billion to fulfill our promise, becoming the largest source of nonprofit funds dedicated to the fight against breast cancer in the world.

WALK. RUN. CHEER. DONATE. VOLUNTEER. Race Expo Opens at 7AM. Registration Prices Vary ($20 and Up).

Downtown Cincinnati. 100 Joe Nuxhall Way, Cincinnati OH. www.komencincinnati.org. 513-671-9100.

SUNDAY 26

DOZENS MORE EVENTS AVAILABLE AT CINCINNATIPARENT.COM OR SIGN UP FOR OUR FREE E-NEWSLETTER TO GET TOYOUR-EMAIL WEEKLY EVENT UPDATES!

Monday 27

MOMS club of Hamilton/Fairfield Township-- Open House Come to our open house to see what we are all about! We are a support group designed just for you, the at-home mother of today! You are interested in the world around you, want a variety of activities for you and your children, and are proud of your choice of at-home mothering for your families! We know, because we’re at-home mothers, too! You need a support group that understands your special needs as an at-home mother and we’re it! We are the first, largest and fastest growing support group specifically for ALL at-home mothers. 10:00am. FREE! Trinity Episcopal Church. 115 N 6th St, Hamilton OH. www. freewebs.com/momsclubhamiltonfairfieldtownship/.

Tuesday 28

Cincinnati Reds VS Houston Astros Come support the Reds at home as they take on the Astros! 7:10 pm. Ticket Prices Vary. Great American Ballpark. 100 Nuxhall Way, Cincinnati OH. www.reds.com. 513-381-7337.

Wednesday 29

Cincinnati Reds VS Houston Astros Come support the Reds at home as they take on the Astros! 7:10 pm. Ticket Prices Vary. Great American Ballpark. 100 Nuxhall Way, Cincinnati OH. www.reds.com. 513-381-7337.

Thursday 30 Art Explorers

Includes story-time led by the Lane Public Library children’s department followed by a related craft. The program is intended for children ages 3-5, accompanied by an adult. Co-Sponsored with the Lane Public Library Children’s Department. 10:00 am - 12:00 pm. Free. Miami University Art Museum. 801 S. Patterson Ave., Oxford OH. arts.muohio.edu/art-museum/ education/community-engagement. 513-529-2232.

34 CINCINNATI PARENT * SEPTEMBER 2010

Occurring Daily Beginning Wednesday, September 01, 2010 Through Saturday, October 02, 2010. Discover five centuries of African American history. It’s the American story, like it’s never been told before, through more than 250 rare and stunning artifacts from all over the globe. Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Adult $12, Senior $11, Child $8, (Member) Adult $8, (Member) Chi. Cincinnati Museum Center.

1301 Western Avenue, Cincinnati OH. www. cincymuseum.org. 1.800.733.2077.

Apple Daze Festival

Occurring Daily Beginning Saturday, September 18, 2010 Through Sunday, September 19, 2010. Apple festival, homegrown apples, fresh apple sundaes, apple pies and turnovers, apple milkshakes, and much more! Activities include hayrides, barnyard animals, train ride, and bounce house. Bring the kids to the farm for a fun filled day! 11am-6pm. FREE. Hidden Valley Fruit Farm. 5474 North State Rt 48, Lebanon OH. www.hiddenvalleyfruitfarm.com.

513-932-1869.

Day Out With Thomas

Occurring Every Sun, Fri & Sat Beginning Friday, September 10, 2010 Through Sunday, September 19, 2010.Take a 25 minute ride with a full size Thomas the Tank Engineô Meet Sir Topham Hatt. Enjoy storytelling, Live Music

by Zak Morgan, Magic by Brett Sears, build with Mega Bloks© and Much More! Every 45 minutes from 9:45am to 3:45pm. $18 (ages 2 & up). LM&M Railroad. 127 S. Mechanic St., Lebanon OH. www.LebanonRR.com. 513933-8022.

Fall on the Farm

Occurring Every Sun & Sat Beginning Saturday, September 25, 2010 Through Sunday, October 31, 2010. Our favorite time of year!

Bring the whole family for hayrides to the Pumpkin Patch through Scarecrow woods, a “Jack in the Beanstalk” themed a-MAIZ-ing Corn Maze, a Giant Slide, Pumpkin Paintball & Egg throw, Picnic area, Kids’ Corn Box (sand box with corn kernals instead of sand), Feed and pet the farm animals, and more! Don’t forget to eat a fresh made caramel apple or pick up just some delicious cider! . Saturday 10 am to 6 pm; Sunday 11 am to 6. free admission. Blooms & Berries Farm Market. 9669 St. Rt. 48, Loveland OH. www.bloomsandberriesfarmmarket. com. 513-691-9173.

GREAT OUTDOOR WEEKEND

Occuring September 25 and 26. Just imagine… an entire weekend filled with an array of nature activities and programs going on all over the tri-state area - all for FREE! Get the family together for a fantastic nature experience!

Feel free to attend one or a handful of the great nature programs being offered.To find out details, please visit our website. There you will find programs listed by location, date/ time and organization as well as a detailed description of each program. We look forward to seeing you there!The Cincinnati Nature Center at Rowe Woods. 4949 Tealtown

Road, Milford, Ohio 45150. http://www. cincygreatoutdoorweekend.org. (513)8311711

Harvest Home Fair

Occurring Daily Beginning Thursday, September 09, 2010 Through Sunday, September 12, 2010. Sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Cheviot-Westwood, the 151st Annual Green Township Harvest Home Fair is the BIGGEST little fair in Ohio! Come for some delicious food and see over 7,250 exhibitors share their talents and accomplishments, peddling their wares or entertaining with games and music. Events and activities include:Thursday Night Parade, 1 Mile Run, Annual 5k Run/Walk & Dog Walk, Stage Shows, Horse Show, Art Exhibits, Annual Flower Show, 4-H Livestock Exhibits & Auction/ Petting Zoo, Playground, Rides, and Games for EVERYONE! There is something for everyone here -- see you at the Fair! . Thurs: Parade Starts at 6pm; Fri: 5-11:00pm; Sat: Noon-11pm; Sun: Noon-10:00pm. $5.00 Adults, Children under 12 FREE! Saturday and Sunday, FREE. Harvest Home Park. 3961 North Bend Road, Cincinnati OH. harvesthomefair.com. 513-662-0524.

Ohio Renaissance Festival

Occurring Daily Beginning Saturday, September 04, 2010 Through Sunday, October 17, 2010.

Over 150 costumed characters welcome you to the village! Rub elbows with Royalty as you cheer your favorite knight to victory in the thrilling Full-armored Tournament Joust.

Welcoming you to a festive day in the village are dueling swordsmen, rowdy pirates, nobles, and peasants. Ohio’s premier family event features 11 stages of continuous entertainment, 7 food and beverage buildings, and more than 130 arts and crafts shops. Knights, comedy, daring stunt shows, giant roasted turkey legs, bread bowl stews, handmade arts and crafts abound in the authentically recreated 30-acre 16th Century English village.

Saturdays & Sundays PLUS Labor Day Open 10:30AM - 6:00PM, Rain or Shine.

Adult: $16.99, Child(5-12): $8.99, Children Under 5: FREE. Renaissance Park. 10542 E State Route 73, Harveysburg OH. www.renfestival.com. 513-897-7000.

Omnimax Film: Legends of Flight

Occurring Daily Beginning Wednesday, September 01, 2010 Through Thursday, November 11, 2010. See how the airplanes of the 20th century helped influence the radical new designs of the 21st century. See how high tech manufacturers around the world use modern technology. Fly in the cockpit with chief test pilot, Mike Carriker, as he takes the new 787 Dreamliner on its first flight test. It’s a wild ride!

Scheduled Show times:* Monday through Wednesday: 12, 2 and 4 p.m. Thursday: 10 a.m., 12, 2 and 4 p.m. Friday: 10 a.m., 12, 2, 4, 6 and 9 p.m. Saturday: 12, 2, 4, 6 and 9 p.m. Sunday: 12, 2, 4 and 6 p.m.

Varies Daily. 50 Child (3-12); Discounts for Groups and with Other Museum Tick. Cincinnati Museum Center. 1301 Western Avenue, Cincinnati OH. www. cincymuseum.org. 1.800.733.2077.

Omnimax Film: Mysteries of the Great Lakes

Occurring Daily Beginning Wednesday, September 01, 2010 Through Thursday, November 11, 2010. It takes a drop of water nearly 400 years to travel from the headwaters of Lake Superior to the edge

of Lake Ontario. It’s a dramatic journey past towering cliffs, over giant prehistoric sturgeon lurking among thousands of shipwrecks, and past nearly 40 million people who live along the coastline. See some of the most spectacular scenery in the world, and uncover the Mysteries of the Great Lakes. Scheduled Show times: Monday through Wednesday: 11 a.m., 1, 3 and 5 p.m. Thursday: 11 a.m., 1, 3, 5 and 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday: 11 a.m., 1, 3, 5 and 7 p.m. Sunday: 11 a.m., 1, 3 and 5 p.m.Varies Daily. $7.50 Adult, $6.50 Senior, $5.50 Child (3-12); Discounts for Gro. Cincinnati Museum Center. 1301 Western Avenue, Cincinnati OH. www.cincymuseum. org. 1.800.733.2077.

Riverfest/ WEBN Labor Day Fireworks Date: Sunday, September 05, 2010. In Cincinnati, the big holiday for fireworks is not the Fourth of July but Labor Day weekend. Cincinnatians bid farewell to summer with a pyrotechnic blowout on the banks of the Ohio River. Hundreds of thousands of people come to see the waterskiing, sky diving, and air shows. The party ends with a spectacular 30-minute fireworks display over the river. Hanging flowers of light and waterfalls of sparks are choreographed to music broadcast live on the local WEBN radio station. Noon - End of Fireworks. FREE. Sawyer Point & Yeatman’s Cove. www.riverfestcincinnati.com. (513) 352-4000.JointheJ.org. 513.761.7500.

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Music Pups® Party!

Singing, Dancing, Instruments, Bubbles, Parachutes, More!

West Chester Academy of Music www.wcaom.com

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Fun! Ages 1 to 5!

reso urces

Tuesday Wednesday Thursday

with your suggestions and comments!

Labor Day!

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Grandparent 's Day

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Good Neighbor D ay

m la

i day

Positive Thinking Day!

RAILROAD DAY

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14 On this day in 1848,

the first department store opened.

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WONDERFUL Weirdos Day

Rosh Hashanah

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Ma ke a H at Da y

re u t a i n i M Da y Gol f

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Saturday 3

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Don't National Drive Your lazy mom's Studebaker Da y Day!

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PATRIOT DAY

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A u t u mn Eq uinox

Swanson sold the first T.V. Dinner 17

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Nationa l Constitution RESPECT Day Da y Celebration Idea: Treat EVERYONE with respect today, and every day for that matter!

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W hite C hocolate D ay 29

On this day IN HISTORY,

the first airport opened.

Celebration Idea: Visit the airport and watch planes take off. Make paper airplanes. Discuss where you'd fly if you could go anywhere in the world.

am

o l e day

Celebration Idea: Make a hat, of course! Try to make a hat out of balloons, paper bags or whatever other materials you can come up with!

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Eat Dinner With Your Family Day

ry p o p ci c l

Friday

fun & wacky calendar

On this day in 1954,

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Celebration Idea: Try to go an entire day without complaining!

Focus on the good in every situation!

Talk Like A Pirate Day

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6 sa

5

NATIONAL C H E ES E PIZZA DAY

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Let us know! E-mail editor@cincinnatiparent.com

2 y da

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No Rhyme Nor Reason Day

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Monday

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Sunday

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National Coffee Day

Love Note Day

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Nation al Museum Day

Celebration Idea: Indianapolis is FULL of great museums!

Why not visit one you've never been to today?

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BROADWAY MUSICALS DA Y

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

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