September 2021 | Southwest Ohio | Cincinnati

SEPTEMBER 2021

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fun fall activities

+ LET'S

GO!

3 fall break road trip destinations

YOUR #1 PARENTING RESOURCE IN CINCINNATI

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5

benefits of private schools

contents

// SEPTEMBER 2021

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22 features

departments

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In Every Issue

Sponsored Content

06 Letter from the Editor 08 Local Kids

10 News & Notes

11 Plan Your Visit to the

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Fall Fun in Southwest Ohio

Family-friendly ways to celebrate the season.

Top 5 Benefits of Private Schools Here are reasons why parents are choosing the unique experience of this type of education.

Louisville Jack O'Lantern Spectacular

19 Education for ALL Students

Around Town 09 Hidden Gems:

Tom Jones Commons in Eden Park

30 Local Spotlight: O2

Travel 14 Fall Break Road Trip Destinations

Urban Farms

38 Corn Mazes to Conquer this Fall

Resources & Calendars 28 Education Guide

Parenting 12 What Are Those

16

Mysterious Red Bumps?

26 What I've Learned from My Teen

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32 Things to Do in September

39 Fun & Wacky Calendar

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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

WORDS BY NICOLE SIPE

Publisher Mary Wynne Cox mary@ohparent.com Associate Publisher + Creative Director + Advertising Katie Clark katie@ohparent.com Editor Nicole Sipe nicolesipe@ohparent.com

Production Manager Karen Ring karen@ohparent.com

Calendar Editor Haley Paddock haley@ohparent.com

Autumn Days are Here Again While putting together this September issue of Southwest Ohio Parent, it was hard not to get really excited for fall. Not just because fall is my favorite season.

(Bring on the autumn skies and apple pies!) But also because I was reminded of all the fun things that happen in the fall that I look forward to each year. The family hikes to see the changing leaves. The fall festivals. And — yes, I’m saying it — the return of the pumpkin spice latte.

Ah, fall. I’m so glad you’re back.

In my family, we’re already making our fall break plans. Where do we want to go to spend our precious few vacation days enjoying the season this year? It’s a question that has many answers, because there are just so many places to explore in the Midwest.

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If you’re also wondering where to go and what to do, then turn to “Fall Break Road Trip Destinations” on page 14. We offer three road-trip-worthy places that are great for a quick trip out of town. All three places will have you feelin’ all the fall feelings.

And if you’re staying more local this fall, you have lots of options, too! Check out “Fall Fun in Southwest Ohio” on page 16 for some ideas for enjoying the season right here in southwest Ohio. From festivals to corn mazes, train rides to apple picking, there are lots of ways to celebrate locally.

Happy fall, y’all!

Digital Publisher Wendy Hasser wendy@ohparent.com

Administration + Digital Mary Mueller mmueller@ohparent.com

Administration + Calendar Editor Brooke Litherland brooke@ohparent.com Billing billing@ohparent.com

Contributing Writers Pam Freeman, Rebecca Matteson, Jennifer Thompson

Calendar of Events calendar@ohparent.com

SW Ohio Parent is published monthly. Copyright 2021 by Midwest Parenting Publications, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited. Distribution of this magazine does not constitute an endorsement of products, commentary or services herein.

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say cheese!

LOCAL kids

Nana, papaw, grammy, poppy. The names that grandchildren give their grandparents can be as unique and special as the bond they share with each other.

Grandparents Day is September 12, so to celebrate, we're featuring photos of local kids with their grandparents!

Krish (3), Ishaan (10) with Naani and Naanu Felicity (1 mo) with Papaw

Lily (1) and Ben (4) with Nana

Leo (11) and Keeli (7) with Gran Gran Julianna (5) with Papa

Want to see your cute kids on this page?

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Connor (3) and Mimi

Do you have an adorable pic of your child(ren) that you'd like to share with our readers?

Send it to us at editor@ohparent.com, with the child's first name and age, and your photo might be selected to appear here!

HIDDEN GEMS

WORDS BY REBECCA MATTESON

Tom Jones Commons in Eden Park The 3.5-acre Tom Jones Commons is an urban oasis waiting for families to explore, and features wetlands, a nature play area and boardwalk. Located in Eden Park, the commons is currently in Phase 1 with accessible walkways, picnic area, fresh landscaping, connection to Mirror Lake and welcome kiosk.

Eden Park is its own gem, with family-friendly activities such as the Cincinnati Art Museum, Krohn Conservatory, Twin Lakes with playground, Art Climb Steps at CAM and now a wetland commons for the lower reservoir. The Tom Jones Commons fulfills part of a 2007 master plan by Cincinnati Parks.

Bring the kiddos along for wildlife watching, swinging, jumping, balancing and gliding. The natural play area is designed for children ages 4-12 in mind. Tall logs, short stumps and rock boulders welcome a fun obstacle course for little nature ninjas.

A perfect spot for a picnic, older kiddos will love the nearby basketball courts as parents and grandparents enjoy a seat under the shelter. Full with picnic tables, benches, water fountain and shade, relax in serenity while time slows down.

Parkside Place and Martin Drive, Cincinnati cincinnatiparks.com

The paved path takes you on a tranquil walk around pollinators and wildlife, as many chickadees, butterflies and buzzing bees have made themselves at home. A boardwalk crosses over the growing wetlands, as hopes for more wildlife fills the space.

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NEWS & Notes

Our monthly roundup of news you can use

Get back to the theater The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati is ready to roll out the red carpet and welcome patrons home to the Taft Theatre in Downtown Cincinnati starting this October 2021. Disney’s Descendants: The Musical opens the season, followed by Junior versions of Elf the Musical, Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical, and a world-premiere adaptation of the Wiz. Single tickets are on sale now.

Purchase yours at thechildrenstheatre.com.

7,500 THAT’S HOW MANY APPLE VARIETIES EXIST IN THE WORLD – 2,500 OF WHICH ARE GROWN IN THE U.S. WHICH ONE IS YOUR FAVORITE?

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DID YOU KNOW? Pumpkin spice has nothing to do with pumpkins. It is actually the spice mix used for pumpkin pies.

Either way, we’re ready for it!

fall on the farm Beginning Saturday, Sept. 18 through October 31, head to Blooms & Berries for their annual Fall on the Farm Festival. One low admission price includes hayrides, pumpkin bounce pad, corn maze, bee train, play area, farm animals, Spookley the Square Pumpin and more! It’s fun for all ages.

Learn more at bloomsandberries.com/checkout-our-fall-fun-festival.

SPONSORED CONTENT

WORDS BY BEN WILSON

Plan Your Visit to the Louisville Jack O’Lantern Spectacular The perfect fall getaway, only 90 minutes away!

Come experience the Louisville Jack O’Lantern Spectacular. 5,000 artisticallycarved pumpkins set among the stunning woods of Louisville’s Iroquois Park. Each night from September 30 to October 31 - with discounted rates Sunday through Thursday.

With so many intricately-carved pumpkins and dozens of themed sections, you and your family will have a hard time choosing your favorites!

Entering through the Iroquois Amphitheatre, you’ll wander the wide, accessible walking paths through the historic woods, surrounded by thousands of intricately-carved pumpkins, all set among a “spooky-notscary” backdrop of decorations and light.

This year our theme is “Changing the Channel: A Timeline of Television History". Pumpkins are grouped together by theme, which will include the Golden Age of Television, MTV, ESPN, Disney Channel, and so much more. Which television series do you

hope to see enshrined on a Jack O’Lantern Spectacular pumpkin?

Tickets are available now! To avoid sell out nights, purchasing tickets in advance is suggested.

Friday and Saturday nights: Adults $20, Seniors (65+) $17, Children (3-12) $15. Sunday through Thursday nights offer discounted tickets: Adults $15, Seniors (65+) $13, Children (3-12) $12. Little ones under 2 are always free. Group rates are available!

Travelling from out of town? Make it a weekend! We have special rates available for local hotels - visit our website for more details. Iroquois Park offers a multitude of daytime activities - playgrounds, golf, disc golf, trails and more.

The Jack O’Lantern Spectacular is proudly presented by Thorntons and directly benefits the Parks Alliance of Louisville - supporting park projects in Louisville’s 100+ public parks.

Plan your visit today at jackolanternlouisville.org.

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PARENTING

BROUGHT TO YOU BY DAYTON CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL

What Are Those Mysterious Red Bumps?

Hand, foot, and mouth disease is on the rise.

Can my child go to school/ camp/childcare if they have HFM?

Over the last few weeks, Dayton Children’s has been seeing a common theme: kids with hand, foot, and mouth disease.

“Hand, foot and mouth usually hits our area in May and June, but it is hitting a little later this year than normal,” says Dr. Lisa Ziemnik, division chief of Dayton Children’s Kids Express and urgent care. “I believe we are seeing more of it this year because fewer kids have natural immunity to the virus due to last year’s quarantine. This is making them more susceptible as they are exposed to germs this summer.”

Here’s what you need to know about this pesky virus.

What is hand, foot and mouth disease (HFM)?

HFM is a common viral infection that causes painful red blisters in the mouth and throat, and on the hands, feet, and diaper area. It is contagious and easily spreads to others through contact with unwashed hands, feces, saliva, mucus from the nose, or fluid from the blisters. Kids under age 5 are most at risk for HFM, as infections are common in childcare centers, preschools, and other places where kids are in close quarters.

To prevent the spread of HFM, keep kids home from school and childcare while they have a fever or open blisters on the skin and in the mouth.

Can adults get HFM?

Besides the blisters, kids often have a fever for a few days and can get dehydrated because it hurts to swallow liquids. Symptoms usually clear up within a week and kids recover completely.

There's no cure for HFM and no vaccine to prevent it, but your doctor can recommend home care to make your child more comfortable during recovery.

What are the signs?

The telltale sign of HFM are red blisters that usually develop one to two days into the illness. They may appear on the soles of the feet or the palms of the hand and look like flat red spots or red blisters. The rash may also appear on other

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parts of the body such as the buttocks, thighs and arms. However, some kids will have no problems other than sores in the back of the throat.

How is it treated?

Unfortunately, there is no specific treatment or antibiotic that can be given for hand, foot and mouth. Do your best to keep your child comfortable and let the virus run its course. HFM can last one to two weeks.

While not as common, adults can get HFM. They usually experience milder symptoms but sometimes have severe symptoms as well. The treatment is the same for adults as it is for children.

Can HFM be prevented?

Hand washing is the best protection. Remind everyone in your family to wash their hands well and often, especially after using the toilet or changing a diaper, and before preparing or eating food.

Shared toys in childcare centers should be cleaned often with a disinfectant because many viruses can live on objects for a few days.

If your child has been exposed, symptoms of the disease will appear within three to six days if they have contracted the disease.

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TRAVEL

WORDS BY NICOLE SIPE

Fall Break Road Trip Destinations Three great places to get out of town and enjoy the season.

Want to hit the road for fall break? These roadtrip-worthy destinations are perfect for families!

waterfalls, creeks and caves.

Families can also enjoy outdoorsy adventures like zip lining, climbing and rappelling, horseback riding and more.

Hocking Hills, Ohio

Fridays and weekends in October, hop a ride on the Hocking Valley’s Scenic Railway for the Fall Foliage tour, which will take you on a cozy and leisurely train ride to experience southern Ohio’s fall colors.

If you are looking for a place where you’ll be surrounded by fall foliage, you will find it in Hocking Hills. Located in the southeastern region of Ohio, this area hits peak-season autumn glory right around fall break — typically the first couple of weeks of October.

Drive through Hocking Hills State Park’s scenic byways, then stop and explore the area by foot to get an up-close look at the area’s natural beauty. Hocking Hills has seven major hiking trails, each with unique features to see and explore, including

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Santa Claus, Indiana If the cooler temperatures are making you want to deck the halls, then Santa Claus, Indiana, should be on your destination list. As the name suggests, this southwest Indiana town is all Christmas, all the time. Treat

your family to a cup of the famous frozen hot chocolate at Santa’s Candy Castle, and then visit the Santa Claus Museum & Village to write a letter to Santa.

But Santa Claus is much more than just Christmas. Thrills await you at Holiday World & Slashin’ Safari, the area’s largest amusement park. On weekends starting September 25 through

October 31, enjoy the park’s Happy Halloween Weekends for fun Halloween shows and activities for kids, including trick-or-treating, corn mazes and hayrides.

A few miles away from Santa Claus is Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial, one of the three National Parks in Indiana.

Pick up a junior rangers activity book at the memorial visitor center, then hike through the park and complete the activities while learning about our 16th president. As you explore the living historical farm, you’ll meet park rangers dressed in period clothing, performing activities typical of daily life in the 1820s.

More than 80% of the island is preserved as a state park, and one of the best ways to see it is by foot or by bicycle. Mackinac Island State Park offers trails through woods to see limestone formations, historic cemeteries, and local f lora and fauna.

Carriage rides are another popular mode of transportation on the island, and they’ll give you a behind-the-scenes look into the neighborhoods of Mackinac Island residents who call the island their home.

Mackinac Island, Michigan

No trip to Mackinac Island is complete without sampling some world-famous fudge at one of the seven fudge shops downtown.

Mackinac Island shops make 10,000 pounds of fudge each day during peak tourist season, and if you’re lucky, you might even get to see it being made!

Insiders know that fall is one of the best times to visit Mackinac Island: the crowds are fewer, and the forests surrounding the island are sporting pictureperfect hues of red, orange and gold. Plan to visit before the island ferry service ends for the season — typically at the end of October.

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Family-friendly ways to celebrate the season.

WORDS BY NICOLE SIPE

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S

ummer is

slowly turning

into fall,

and the number of fun activities and events for families is not slowing down one bit.

Ohio really shines during this season — there are just so many ways to celebrate autumn with your family. Here are some great ideas to make the most of this wonderful season!

Enjoy the changing colors by train Ohio is at its most beautiful in the fall, and seeing the fall foliage on a train takes the fall feeling to a whole other level.

Lebanon-Mason Monroe Railroad’s Turtle Creek Flyer runs through October 27 and will take you through the picturesque countryside of Southwest Ohio. And if you’re up for a road trip into Indiana, Whitewater Valley Railroad’s Valley Flyer takes riders on a tour of Indiana’s historic and beautiful canal town, Metamora.

Go for a hike Take advantage of fall’s cooler temps by going on a family hike. Between the Great Parks of Hamilton County, Cincinnati Parks and Five Rivers MetroParks in Dayton, there are lots of kid-friendly ways to get your steps in.

Pick apples There’s something about fall that makes you want to pick your own produce. Fortunately, there are plenty of U-pick opportunities in the area.

Iron’s Fruit Farm in Lebanon is one of the finest in the tristate; their U-pick season runs into October and features Paula Red, McIntosh and Gala varieties. Meanwhile, A&M Farm Orchard is a Midland gem, and Peifer Orchards in Yellow Springs is open on the weekends to satisfy your produce-picking needs.

Visit a pumpkin patch Watching your kids trudge across an orange-speckled field of pumpkins is a parental rite of passage. Shaw Farms, Burwinkel Farms, Bonnybrook Farms and Brown’s Family Farm all boast a beautiful selection of fall’s unofficial mascot. And if you’re looking for an Insta-worthy background for your pumpkin pics, Young’s Jersey Dairy in Yellow Springs has one of the most picturesque pumpkin patches in Ohio!

Do a fall festival It just isn’t fall without festivals. Local favorites include Dayton Fall Festival on September 25, Gorman Heritage Farm’s famous Sunf lower Festival in Evendale and Autumn Fest at

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Learning Tree Farm in Dayton on September 18. Don't miss the Art and Music Festival at Pyramid Hill's Sculpture Park on September 25 with live music.

straight to the action (the pumpkin patch!), and Neltner’s Farm takes guests on one of the most beautiful wagon rides in the tristate. The covered wagon rides at Bonnybrook Farms are also a fun ride!

Conquer a corn maze Why not get a little corny this season? Blooms & Berries has two corn mazes: a 7-acre labyrinth that takes an hour to conquer and a smaller, more kid-friendly, 15-minute maze.

Over in Milford, Shaw Farms boasts a 15-acre maze that’s challenging but doable.

Take a hayride Hayrides are a must-do in the fall. The hay rides at Schappacher Farms in Wilmington will take you

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Go trick-or-treating before Halloween Can’t wait for the big night?

There are plenty of opportunities to go trick-ortreating before October 31.

HallZOOween at the Zoo is a family favorite (don’t forget to bring your own treat bag!)

Sharonville’s Haunted Village at Heritage Village Museum features trick-or-treating in a slightly frightening setting that’s great for kids.

SPONSORED CONTENT

Education for ALL Students Unique Programs and Partnerships at Bishop Leibold School

Bishop Leibold also has established a partnership with the University of Dayton’s Empowering Children with Hope and Opportunity (ECHO). In addition to student, staff and parent information sessions, beginning in our 2021-22 school year, an ECHO counselor will be on site at Bishop Leibold part time helping the families and staff to more effectively address the mental health needs of our students.

At Bishop Leibold School, our goal has always been to meet students where they are and help them reach the academic success that is specific to their individual needs.

In 2019, we adopted an approach that helps us more accurately identify the needs and strengths of our students in order to better serve them. Utilizing Multi-Tiered Student Support (MTSS), our team of intervention specialists, teachers, counselors, aides, and parents are able to come together and work as a unified team to meet students’ needs. Through differentiated classroom instruction and small group instructional support, individual strengths are fostered and praised while additional needs are addressed.

“MTSS is vital for us to be consistent as an entire staff,” says Dr. Theodore Wallace, principal of Bishop Leibold “in doing so, we are able to work with our students that need the most help, and our highest achievers so that they are being appropriately challenged in the classroom.”

MTSS is just one component of the strides that Bishop Leibold is taking to best meet our student's needs.

Bishop Leibold is also an official provider of the Jon Peterson Special

It is enhancements to our programming through initiatives like those listed above, constant communication and collaboration among our staff, and commitment from our school families that make Bishop Leibold School a wonderful place for every student.

Needs Scholarship (JPSN), a K-12 program that provides scholarships to students who have an Individualized Education Program (IEP) from their local district but prefer to attend a participating private school.

Bishop Leibold is proud of our unique collaboration with specialized community partners.

One such partnership is with The Reading Lab, a program that provides dyslexia testing, training & tutoring services to “bright but struggling” readers during the school day. “Our partnership with Bishop Leibold is quite unique since we have the opportunity to serve students during the school day. Families really appreciate this in addition to the impact it is having on helping unlock the full potential of their children.” says Donna

Donahue, director of The Reading Lab. “It is also a wonderful opportunity for our tutors, parents, and teachers at Bishop Leibold to work together for these students.”

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Here are reasons why parents are choosing the unique experience of this type of education.

WORDS BY JENNIFER THOMPSON

I

f you’ve laid in bed with the words

public, private, charter, Montessori,

Waldorf, Reggio Emilia and more swimming through your head — you aren’t alone. For many parents, one of the biggest decisions to make is figuring out where to send their child to school, and with so many options it can feel very overwhelming. If you’re thinking about private school for your child, here are some of the things you should consider, and the unique benefits of a private school education.

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#1:

Smaller Classrooms

Typically, private schools will offer smaller classes, which means more opportunities for one-on-one time with the student and the teacher. In this environment, it may be easier for students to participate in class discussions, and have their questions answered as they arise.

With fewer classmates, the teacher is also able to get to know the students strengths and weaknesses better than they may in a large classroom setting, and help to facilitate growth for the student on a more individual level. Smaller classes also can create more of a sense of community within the classroom and with peers.

#2:

#4:

Aligns with Personal Beliefs

A Strong Sense of Community

Some may choose a private school that aligns with their personal beliefs. There are many religions represented in the private school sector. In these schools, the students will receive excellent academic instruction in a faith-based environment that supports the values that are being taught at home.

#3: Exposure to the Arts and Extracurricular Activities Many private schools have a strong emphasis on the arts and offer their students exposure to a wide range of opportunities.

With fewer students, there is a potential for more opportunities for the students to participate in the activities they would like to try.

Because of the smaller class sizes and school enrollment, a strong sense of community is developed within the school. There is an emphasis placed on the teacher and parent relationship with many opportunities for parents and teachers to connect throughout the year. This also helps the parents to be involved in their child’s education when they are at home, as they encourage them to learn and foster a relationship that values and encourages their education. In addition, parents are easily able to, and are encouraged to, participate in school activities and events. Many private schools also encourage students and families to serve in the community, extending the community feel outside of the building and into the neighborhood where the school is located. Some schools may even require their students to complete a certain number of community service hours.

#5: Provide an Enriched Education Another benefit of private schooling is that many schools will offer classes or courses that are unique to their school, with a focus not only on education, but also on the child as a whole. Character development, personal growth, respect, empathy, self-control and

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wellness are just a few of the things that may be emphasized.

In high school, they often will offer a wide variety of AP level courses, and encourage students to pursue a degree of choice upon completion of high school.

Another plus is that private school students typically do very well on standardized tests and college entrance exams.

Finding the school that is the best fit for your child can feel like a daunting and overwhelming task. Be sure to visit the schools you are considering and ask questions that are pertinent to your family’s unique values, interests and priorities. Talk to friends and join online groups and communities for more personal information. And lastly, take a deep breath and find confidence in the fact that you know what’s best for your child, because nobody knows your child better than you do.

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Charter Schools vs Private Schools Charter schools are another educational option that many parents consider for their children. Although charter schools and private schools share many similarities, there are also some differences between the two.

Both private schools and charter schools have similar classroom sizes, a goal of developing student-teacher relationships, and an emphasis on academic achievement. Both options offer parents a choice beyond their child's assigned neighborhood public school, allowing a family to choose the school that best aligns with their child's needs or strengths.

However, unlike most private schools, charter schools are tuition-free. Charter schools are public schools, and they don’t require an admission process or entrance exam. These factors can be appealing to some parents who are looking for these options in a school for their child.

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PARENTING

WORDS BY JENNIFER THOMPSON

What I’ve Learned from My Teen My children will be returning to school in the fall. And while they are ready to go back, they do talk about the things they will miss.

The relaxed schedule. The extra sleep. The snacks throughout the day. The ability to go on a family walk mid-day, or watch a show together.

This past year has been one that none of us ever could have anticipated or imagined. Words that weren’t part of our regular vocabulary, like masks, social distancing, toilet paper shortage, remote learning and Zoom gatherings became number-one topics of conversation.

We came into our homes and families gathered around the table for dinners, maybe for the first time in weeks. Games were taken off shelves, instruments were dusted off, and parents mulled over the difficult decision of whether to send their children to school online or in-person.

All the while, we wondered how this was affecting our children.

How would they deal with this abrupt change in life? And for parents of tweens and teens, we suddenly found ourselves in situations where we were spending more time with them then we maybe have in years.

That has definitely been the case for my family.

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We made the decision to have our four children learn remotely, which means I have spent more time with my children than I usually would in this phase of life.

And while this year has had its challenges, it has also been one of the greatest years for growth in our family. Our relationships have been stretched and they have grown. And in all of our time spent together at home, I have learned a lot about my tween and teens that I’m not sure I would have learned otherwise. And I believe they have learned a lot about themselves.

I’ve seen how they faced obstacles head on. I’ve seen how they have dealt with challenges as they have arisen. I’ve seen how they have grieved unexpected losses and closed chapters without goodbyes.

And I have seen how they have risen to the occasion and tackled

things they have never dealt with before, like online schooling and visiting with friends outdoors in socially distanced circles.

They have missed things we never imagined them missing. But they have gained things we never anticipated, too. Our 15 and 13 year old daughters have had to navigate online schooling without Zoom classes or regular schedules.

They are self-paced and attendance isn’t taken. They are learning skills that many don’t learn until college. Has it been easy? No. But they also get to sleep in and are incredibly proud of themselves when they get the grades they worked so hard for.

Our lives have slowed down tremendously this year. And as more people are being vaccinated and the world is slowly beginning to open back up, this is something I hope we take with us. I hope we choose the things we will participate in wisely. I hope my daughter will continue to keep her eyes up, and not begin to spend so much time looking down at her phone again. I hope to still hear the piano being played and that family dinners will continue to be prioritized. I also look forward to hearing my girls' laughter carry down the stairs as they giggle in their rooms with friends sleeping over.

I hope they carry what they have learned in this past year with them, and that they know they can face hard and unexpected obstacles, and rise to whatever challenges come their way. And I always hope they know how proud of them I am.

So very proud.

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EDUCATION GUIDE CHARTER

Chai Tots Early Childhood Center

MONTESSORI

Citizens of the World Charter School Academic excellence via a unique

Central Montessori Academy

Our model focuses on social and emotional learning, project based learning, and difference and inclusion.

We empower children to think critically and learn to engage respectfully and productively with fellow students by developing their capacity to enter into and understand the lives of others. •

Authentic Montessori environment, serving toddler through 6th grade.

Small class sizes allow each student to progress at an individual pace.

Part-time preschool and extended day are available. Our school is a place of discovery, curiosity, respect and enthusiasm. Come take a tour and see for yourself. • 1904 Springdale Rd.,

4324 Homer Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45227, Contact: Executive Director, Phone: (513) 445-4793, Email: recruitment@cwcschools. org, cwccincinnati.org

blend of Jewish and Montessori education offering strong academics, stressing life skills, interpersonal relationship skills and nurturing a love for life-long learning. Individualized curriculum customized for each student, expansive naturally lit rooms, low student ratio. Specials include yoga, music, Hebrew, Spanish, dance, drama, art and Tae Kwon Do. Flexible schedules, before and aftercare, web cams and after-school enrichment available. Transportation available to/ from Mason schools. Limited space - now enrolling! • 7587 Central Parke

Cincinnati, OH 45231, Contact: Denise Ott, Phone: 513-742-5800, Email: info@ centralmontessoriacademy.com, CentralMontessoriAcademy.com, Grades: Toddler-Grade 6, Enrollment: 100

A Million Dreams Learning Center

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

New Learning Center now open in Milford, OH! Now Enrolling ages 6 weeks - School Age! We strive to provide an environment, staff, and programs that will enhance and encourage the million dreams of each child, family, and staff member. Through our classroom design, playground design and Christian curriculum, it is this Center’s desire to maintain a joy-filled, peaceful, creative environment for infants and children.

We are committed to furnishing such an environment and adding a quality of childcare that is desirable and much needed in our community. • 541 Main

Children's Meeting House Montessori School has been proudly educating Cincinnati Christian students from preschool through 6th Schools grade using the principles of the Montessori philosophy since 1972.

CCS has been creating lifelong CMH offers a variety of preschool, learners, creative thinkers, passionate enrichment and before/after school disciples, and visionary leaders for over options to meet each family’s needs.

40 years. Our graduates are welcomed Partner with our devoted staff of at universities because they’ve become experienced and Montessori trained the natural learners and inquisitive teachers throughout your child’s most students that God created them to be. developmental years. CMH – where CCS knows that faith and learning go learning happens, naturally. Find out hand-in-hand. Outstanding. Proven. • more or schedule a tour on our Elementary Campus: 7350 Dixie Hwy, website. • 927 O’Bannonville Rd, Loveland, Fairfield, OH, 45014, Junior/Senior High

CHILDCARE & PRESCHOOL

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

Campus: 7474 Morris Rd., Fairfield, OH, 45011, (513) 892-8500, Contact: Peggy Head, Director of Admissions, Email: peggyhead@ cincinnatichristian.org, cincinnatichristian. org, Grades: PS - 12

The Campus at Kids First We have FULL DAY Kindergarten!

Located inside the nationally acclaimed Kids First Sports Center, The Campus offers the premier early learning experience for children ages 6 weeks through Kindergarten. As the only early learning center in the area that makes physical education a top priority, The Campus at Kids First gives your child an academic edge by integrating a world class physical education (including gymnastics, basketball, yoga and soccer!) curriculum in to the daily schedule, at NO additional cost! Our carefully selected and loving teachers utilize a relevance-based curriculum combined with child-directed play to make learning FUN and start each child on their journey to becoming a life-long learner. • 7900 E Kemper Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45249, theCampusKF.com, Phone: (513) 629-KIDS, Email: info@ theCampusKF.com

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Creative Tots, Mason Our holistic approach allows children (18 months - 5 1/2 years) the opportunity to learn, explore, play and grow while engaging in the fine arts, science, music, yoga and a modernized curriculum. We provide opportunities to use creativity, solve problems, use language, develop new vocabulary and reading skills, while engaging in intellectual activities. There are elements of STEAM education, bilingual education, arts education, as well as lots of physical activities to strengthen the mind and body. • 6408

Thornberry Ct., Mason, OH 45040, Contact: Emilie Parry, Phone: 513-770-6776, Email: creativetotsmason@gmail.com, creativetotsmason.com, Grades: Toddler: 18 months-3 yrs, Preschool: 3-4 yrs; Pre-K: 4-5 yrs

Children’s Meeting House Montessori School

OH 45140, Contact: Casey Reed, Director, Phone: 513-683-4757, Email: reed@ cmhschool.com, cmhschool.com, Grades: Preschool - 6th grade, Enrollment: 150

Mercy Montessori Center Mercy Montessori is Cincinnati's first Catholic Montessori elementary school and provides students with a personalized education. Mercy offers a sliding scale tuition model, in-school swimming instruction starting at age three, and attracts students from over 60 zip codes. Mercy educates the whole child and develops a strong foundation for learning. • 2335 Grandview Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45206, Contact: Amanda Grimm, Admissions Director, Phone: (513) 475-6700 ext. 210, Email: agrimm@mercymontessori.org, mercymontessori.org, Grades: Preschool 8th Grade, Enrollment: 296

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

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

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

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

NON–PUBLIC Bishop Leibold School

Little Sprouts Montessori Preschool & Kindergarten Little Sprouts Montessori nurtures the natural curiosity and enthusiasm of children, helping them develop a lifetime love of learning. Our goal is to empower children to discover and hone their strengths as they explore the world. We recognize the importance of individualized education, and maintain a 1:6 ratio. • 7131 Plainfield Road, Deer Park, OH 45236, Contact: Christie Sawyer, Phone: 513-697-9021, Email: csawyer@ leavesoflearning.org, little-sprouts.org, Grades: Preschool & Kindergarten, Enrollment: Families choose mornings two to four days per week (T/TH and/or W/F), and/ or afternoon sessions on Tuesday and Thursday.

When you join the Bishop Leibold Family, you join a community of students and families, a caring staff, and three parishes dedicated to providing your child with an excellent Christ-centered education. We serve students in preschool (3 years old) through eighth grade! Contact us today to learn more. • 6666 N Springboro Pike Dayton, OH 45449 | 24 S. Third St. Miamisburg, OH 45342, 937-434-9343 | 937-866-3021, bishopleibold.org

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

* SPONSORED LISTINGS

6539 Beechmont Ave., Cincinnati 45230, Contact: Mr. Corey Stoops, Principal, Phone: 513-624-3141, gaschool.org, Grades: Preschool - Grade 8

Catholic independent school. • 2161

Grandin Road (Hyde Park), Cincinnati, OH 45208, Phone: 513-871-4700, ext. 261, Email: pearl_e@summitcds.org, summitcds.org

The Miami Valley School At The Miami Valley School's Early Childhood School, a lifetime love of learning begins for students age 3-4.

Here, seasoned teachers create a safe environment where a child’s learning and imagination take flight. Since 1964, MVS has been Dayton's top private school for grades EC-12. Schedule your tour: www.miamivalleyschool.org/ admissions. • 5151 Denise Drive, Dayton, OH 45429, Phone: (937) 434-4444, mvschool.com/

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

Full- and half-day Montessori programs for ages 18 months-age 6 begin the academic journey followed by a college-preparatory program (Grades 1-12). The Summit educates students spiritually, academically, physically, socially and artistically while offering the academic excellence and one-on-one guidance of a top-tier

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

The Springer Experience. Success Starts Here. • 2121 Madison Road,

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

BE PART OF OUR MONTHLY GUIDE CONTACT KATIE@OHPARENT.COM

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AROUND TOWN

WORDS BY PAM FREEMAN

Local Spotlight: O2 Urban Farms

This unique Cincy nonprofit grows opportunities for disabled and marginalized communities.

What fish do you raise and what do you do with the harvested fish?

Aquaponics combines fish and plants in a closed and soil-less ecosystem to grow produce. If you combine aquaponic farming with employment opportunities for adults with disabilities, then you have O2 Urban Farms, a Cincinnati nonprofit that’s a win-win for the community. Specializing in growing artisan lettuces, adults with disabilities at O2 Urban Farms work in almost every aspect of the business to gain employable skills while giving local folks a palatepleasing farm-to-table option.

Our fish are the workhorses that drive our closed-loop aquaponics system. We have about 600 tilapia and hybrid striped bass. Their waste products become nutrients for our plants. We do plan to harvest the fish in the future.

What are your goals for 2022 and beyond?

We are looking for new opportunities to expand our retail sector. As we emerge from the pandemic, we are reworking and expanding our school and community education initiatives.

Our partnership with the Ken Anderson Alliance continues to grow as they begin construction on a new live community for adults with disabilities with plans for an onsite aquaponics farm.

Southwest Ohio Parent spoke with Tim Sundrup, director of operations at O2 Urban Farms to learn about this unique non-profit that’s growing opportunities in the community.

How did you come up with this concept?

The idea started when one of our founders, Mark Ruberg, read about aquaponics during a cross-country flight. He began experimenting with the process at home and shared his interest with a colleague of his, Tom Mendel. They decided to create a nonprofit to focus on sustainable farming techniques, environmental education and employment for marginalized communities.

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Can you describe some of the jobs that your participants perform?

Most of the farming process is handled by our participants, including seeding, transplanting, harvesting and cleaning. One participant delivers to our wholesale and retail locations, others work at the farm and farmers markets which includes working directly with customers. While our staff assists our work participants as needed, we do push the workers to autonomy and ownership of their job.

Do you grow other things besides lettuce?

We have experimented with other crops on our system, like bok choy, basil and other herbs. We found varying success commercially and on the system. As we were trying out different crops, we found we had begun to make a name for ourselves by offering excellent salad greens. So, we decided to focus on what we were known for and doing well. We grow six lettuce varieties that we blend into an artisan mix.

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THINGS TO DO //

WED 01 Free Entry Days at Great

Parks: Free First Great Parks is celebrating special days with free entry for all! Get outside and enjoy your favorite Great Parks all year long! With more than 17,700 acres of natural habitat, 78 miles of trails, dog parks, disc golf courses, boating, playgrounds and more, there is something for everyone at a Great Park. • Location: Great Parks of Hamilton County, Time: 8 am, greatparks.org FREE

Outdoor Storytime: Movers and Shakers You and your child will shake it together! Sing, dance and enjoy music, movement and fun. Recommended for ages 1-4. • Location: Nisbet Park

SEPTEMBER 2021

FRI 03 Pickin' in the Park Come out

and enjoy Pickin' in the Park, it will be a great night of progressive bluegrass music with performances by Stringus Khan and Whiskey Bent Valley Boys! Grab some food from a variety of food trucks and then dance the night away under the pavilion! Weather Dependent. • Location: RiverScape MetroPark, Time: 6-10 pm, metroparks.org FREE

FRI 03 – SUN 05 Alter Fest! Rides,

children's games, children's entertainment, corn hole tournament, food and great music! • Location: Alter High School, Time: see website for time, alterhs.org/ alterfest

in Loveland, Time: 10- 10:30 am, cincinnatilibrary.org

THURS 02 Blippi the Musical

The energetic and loveable character Blippi comes to the stage with world-class production, audience engagement and amazing music. Recommended for ages 2-7. • Location: BB&T Arena, Time: 6 pm,

FRI 03 – MON 06 Labor Day

Family Value Weekend at Youngs Dairy Take advantage of a special value wristband good for all day, unlimited family fun at Young’s this Labor Day Weekend. • Location: Young’s Jersey Dairy,

youngsdairy.com/labor-day-family-value-weekend

thebbtarena.com

THURS 02 – THURS 30 Big Blue Blocks What can you do with Big Blue Blocks?

Big, lightweight shapes inspire children to design their own inventions, environments, and activities.

Child-directed and open-ended, Big Blue Blocks encourage self-expression through deep, joyful play.

Bring your children and join in the fun during open Library hours. • Location: Wilmington-Stroop Library,

SAT 04 CAM Kids Day Spend the

morning in their galleries with hands-on preschool activities, then enjoy a family-friendly performance at 1:30 p.m. Don't miss out on the hands-on art-making in the Rosenthal Education Center or the My CAM custom scavenger hunts available all day. • Location: Cincinnati Art Museum, Time: 11 am- 5 pm, cincinnatiartmuseum.org

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Ohio Renaissance Festival Opening Weekend Visit a 16th century village filled with thrilling shows, food & drink, unique shops, and a fantasy adventure like no other! • Location: Ohio Renaissance Festival, Time: 10:30 am- 6 pm renfestival.com *ONGOING

SAT 04 – SUN 05 Lunken Airport Days Airport Open House featuring dozens of aircraft on display, rides available in historic military aircraft, helicopter rides, classic car displays, military vehicles on display, educational exhibits, food vendors, and a patriotic flag ceremony at Noon each day. • Location: Lunken Airport, Time: 10 am - 4 pm, warbirds.clubexpress.com FREE

SUN 05 Paws in the Park Enjoy a

fun-filled day all about your four-legged friends! Stop

by Simmonds Family Dog Park to learn about local pet services and businesses. Come meet Cincinnati’s most adoptable (and adorable!) dogs that are looking for their furever homes. • Location: Simmonds Family Dog Park, Time: 1- 5 pm, greatparks.org FREE

Time: All-day, daytonmetrolibrary.org FREE

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Kettering Holiday @ Home Packed with exciting, fun, safe, family-oriented activities designed to encourage people to stay at home and enjoy their family and friends over Labor Day weekend, Holiday at Home is a great way for the family to enjoy the ending of the summer activities together. • Location: Fraze Pavilion, holidayathome.org

FREE / free for families!

*ONGOING /a recurring event

*SN / special needs friendly

/ a SW Ohio Parent favorite!

Cincinnati Hispanic Fest Food, entertainment, Hispanic culture, dancing, and more.

• Location: St. Boniface Church, Time: Noon- 10 pm, cincinnatihispanicfest.org FREE

Western & Southern WEBN Fireworks An all-day affair with music, food and family fun and entertainment all day. On both sides of the river, nearly a half-million people view the choreographed Rozzi's Fireworks show while listening to the soundtrack on WEBN (102.7 FM) starting just after 9 p.m. and lasting for about 30 minutes. Hosted by the cities of Newport, Cincinnati, Covington and Bellevue. The show will also broadcast on WKRC Local 12. • Location: Sawyer Point, Time: 12:00 pm FREE

THURS 09 – SUN 12

Harvest Home Fair The "biggest little fair in Ohio" dates back to the 1860s and kicks off with the annual parade on the 9th. The Reds Hall of Fame and Museum 1869 Reds Stockings vintage baseball team is hosting special events including kids’ activities, food trucks, artisan market and more! • Location: Harvest Home Park, Time: see website for times, harvesthomefair.com

FRI 10 – SAT 11 Balloon Fest - A

Hot Air Affair Bring your folding chairs and enjoy an awesome display of light and color. Fun for the entire family with food trucks, contests and vendors! The balloon activities are weather dependent. • Location: Historic Grimes Field, Time: 4-9 pm, balloonfestohio.com

MON 06 Storytime: Library

Babies Fun for you and your baby with songs, rhymes, stories and movement. Recommended for ages birth – 18 months. • Location: Symmes Branch Library, Time: 11- 11:15 am, cincinnatilibrary.org FREE

TUES 07 Pop Up Family

Storytime Crafts, music, stories, STEM experiments - you never know what will POP UP outside your Library, weather-permitting (and following all health and safety guidelines). Feel free to bring lawn chairs and or a blanket. • Location: Northmont Library, Time: 10:30-11 am, daytonmetrolibrary.org FREE

STEM Activity Kids and Teens are invited to join them on Tuesdays during the school year to practice some STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) skills with fun and creative hands-on activities. • Location: St. Bernard Branch

FRI 10 – SUN 12 Clinton County

Corn Festival Come to the 43rd annual Clinton County Corn Festival. Help us celebrate our agricultural heritage as we honor one of the area's biggest industries with a three-day extravaganza. The festival features antique farm machinery, a parade, games, all types of food made from corn, a quilt show, musical entertainment, antiques and crafts and the Corn Olympics! • Location: Clinton County Fairgrounds, Time: See Website, cornfestivalonline.com

SAT 11 Crazy Cardboard Regatta BOATS! BOATS! BOATS! Cardboard boats, that is. Do you think you’ve got what it takes? Then, sign your team up to build your own cardboard boat and join the amazing race around the lake! Sea legs aren’t quite ready; you say?

No problem! Vendors, entertainment, activities, and more await you upon shore. • Location: Voice of

America MetroPark, Time: 11 am-3 pm, yourmetroparks. net

Library, Time: 4-5 pm, cincinnatilibrary.org FREE

Summer Concerts in the Park Take in the serenity of Sharon Woods for this free, outdoor evening concert in the park. Enjoy the uplifting sounds of reggae rock from local band Jamwave. • Location: Sharon Woods, Time: 7-9 pm, greatparks.org/ calendar# FREE

The O.F.F. Market A monthly marketplace brings together small businesses, artisans, brewers, bakers, farmers and more to provide a unique shopping experience that supports strong community connections and strives to grow a hearty local economy. • Location: Summit Park Blue Ash, Time: 10:00 am- 4:00 pm, theoffmarket.org FREE

Deerfield Township’s Touch-ATruck Climb in a variety of vehicles, inflatables and receive fun giveaways at this FREE community event! Kids are encouraged to come dressed like their favorite community hero! Enjoy booths with fun activities from Deerfield Parks & Recreation, Skidaddles AnyTime Kid Care, Piano Players, and Girl Scouts of Western Ohio! Fun for the whole family! • Location: Deerfield Towne Center, Time: 10 am - 1 pm, deerfieldrec.com/info/activities/ program_details.aspx?ProgramID=29856 FREE

SAT 11 – SUN 12

Beavercreek Popcorn Festival Enjoy festival foods, continuous live entertainment, 5K popcorn run, tantalizing treats, crafts, and sensational specialties made with Popcorn. The festival includes a children's area with games, inflatables, contests and other activities to delight younger children. • Location: Intersection of Dayton-Xenia and North Fairfield roads in Beavercreek, Time: see website for times, beavercreekpopcornfestival.org

SAT 11 – FRI 17 First Responders

Week Cincinnati Zoo is honoring those who protect our community by offering free admission to all active fire, police and safety personnel for the week. • Location: Cincinnati Zoo, Time: 10 am- 5pm,

WED 08 Storytime:

KinderBridge Get ready for kindergarten with stories, songs, and hands-on STEM activities.

Enjoy a new theme each month. Recommended for ages 4 – 6, with a caregiver. • Location: Green Township

cincinnatizoo.org/events/hometown-heroes

Library, Time: 1:30- 2:15, cincinnatilibrary.org FREE

SAT, SEPT 11 THROUGH SUN, SEPT 12

Summer Cinema Bring a blanket or lawn chair for free weekly movies at Washington Park!

Food trucks on site for families to enjoy. This week’s movie features Soul! • Location: Washington Park,

BEAVERCREEK POPCORN FESTIVAL IN DOWNTOWN BEAVERCREEK

Time: 9:00 pm, washingtonpark.org/series/ summer-cinema-2 FREE

THURS 09 Family Storytime on

the Terrace An opportunity for quality family time with books, songs and activities that parents and their children can enjoy together. Will be canceled in inclement weather. • Location: Dayton Metro Main Library, Time: 10-11 am, daytonmetrolibrary.org FREE

FRI, SEPT 10 THROUGH SAT, SEPT 11 BALLOON FEST - A HOT AIR AFFAIR AT GRIMES FIELD IN URBANA

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SUN 12 Shakespeare in the Park:

"Romeo and Juliet" One of the most beloved romantic tragedies of star-crossed lovers, William Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet,” comes to life in this production performed by the Cincinnati Shakespeare Company. Arrive early to enjoy the festivities, including local food trucks, pop-up art shops and children’s crafts and activities. • Location: Sharon Woods, Time: 11 am- 3pm, greatparks.org/ calendar#

THURS 16 Wiggle Worms –

Carnival Fun Step right up! Preschoolers ages 2-5, will enjoy all things carnival, can toss, Ring toss, Skeeball, Popcorn, Photo Booth, Cotton Candy, Train Rides and more! • Location: Greene County Parks-Fairgrounds Recreation Center, Time: 10 am- Noon, gcparks trails.com FREE

THURS 16 – MON 19 Gran & Me Play Date Calling all grandmas, grandpas, grammys and pop-pops! Scoop up the little ones and join them to celebrate Grandparent’s Day with an array of games, new and old. Enjoy light refreshments and play the day away together. • Location: Bellbrook Park District Headquarters, Time: 2-4 pm, bellbrooksugarcreekparks.org

MON 13 Rock Your Homework

Got homework? Dayton Metro Library can help!

Bring it to the Northwest Library and our friendly Homework Helpers can guide you in the right direction. There are also free STEM activities for students without homework or who finish their homework early. • Location: Northwest Branch Library, Time: 3-6 pm, daytonmetrolibrary.org FREE

TUES 14 Pop Up Preschool Story Time Crafts, music, stories - you never know what will POP UP outside your Library, weatherpermitting (and following all health and safety guidelines). • Location: Miami Township Library, Time: 10:30- 11 am, daytonmetrolibrary.org FREE

Oktoberfest-Zinzinnati The second-largest Oktoberfest celebration in the world (the first being the original in Munich, Germany), Oktoberfest Zinzinnati

is a multi-day celebration of German heritage, beer, and food held each September. Prost!

• Location: Downtown Cincinnati’s 2nd and 3rd St., Time:

Park, Time: 10:30- 11 am, daytonmetrolibrary.org FREE

OKTOBERFESTZINZINNATI, DOWNTOWN CINCINNATI

Check website for details, oktoberfestzinzinnati.com/

FRI 17 Family Game Night: Bingo

Are you ready for an exciting night out with your family? Join them for a night of fun and games that everyone can enjoy! Each family unit will be spaced out at their own table during the program. You will play bingo combinations such as 4 Corners, Crazy H, Goal Post and 5 in a row! Prizes will be awarded to the winners. • Location: Bellbrook Park District Headquarters, Time: 6:30- 7:30 pm, bellbrooksugarcreekparks.org

FRI 17 – SUN 19 Cincinnati

Comic Expo Annual show celebrating all periods and genres of pop culture with emphasis on comics. Latest and greatest in comics, graphic novels, artwork, games, toys, movies and TV. • Location: Duke Energy Convention Center, Time: see website times, cincinnaticomicexpo.com

WED 15 Storytime in the Park

Meet them at Gary Sherman Park for stories and songs (weather-permitting). Children, ages birth to 5, and their caregivers are welcome. Please bring a blanket or towel to sit on. • Location: Gary Sherman

THURS, SEPT 16 THROUGH MON, SEPT 19

SAT 18 Autumn Fest Learning Tree Farm’s main fundraiser is a full day of outdoor Fall fun – pony rides, hayrides, kids crafts, historic and nature-based games and activities, animal interactions, vendors, food trucks, and more! • Location: Learning Tree Farm, Time: 10 am- 4 pm, learningtreefarm.org/autumn-fest/

Fall on the Farm at Blooms and Berries Farm Market: Opening Weekend! Fall Activities – Fall is for FAMILY! Hayrides, Pumpkin Bounce Pad, Pumpkin Patch Hayrides, 5-Acre Corn Maze, Mini Corn Maze, Bee Train, Play Area, Farm Animals, Bakery Goodies, Caramel Apples, Spookley’s Storybook Trail & MORE! Online ticket purchasing required. • Location: Bloom & Berries Farm, Time: 9:30 am – 7 pm, bloomsandberries.com/check-out-ourfall-fun-festival *ONGOING

Jack O’Lantern Junction Halloween fun for the whole family! Walk thru the indoor, kid friendly maze and see friendly ghosts, skeletons and more. Each child will receive a bag of trick-or-treat candy! Plus, see the new Halloween mini scenes and a Halloween themed train display. • Location: EnterTRAINment Junction, entertrainmentjunction. com *ONGOING

SAT 18 – SUN 19 Aullwood Fall Festival Come out to Aullwood Farm and enjoy the traditional ambiance of our farm festival.

Many of your favorite foods will be back, including Dutch oven apple pie, fresh-pressed cider, apple butter, steamed corn and chili. Bella Sorella brick oven pizza and other food trucks will round out the menu. Fun and exciting children’s activities will keep the little ones entertained with games and crafts.

Visit farm animal friends and enjoy musical entertainment in the bank barn. Don’t miss the artisan and craft exhibitors offering needle crafts, animal masks, sand art, painted pumpkins, garden ornaments, wood craft, jewelry, hand-made soap and more. • Location: Aullwood Aububon Farm, Time: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm, aullwood.org

DAILY, BEGINNING SAT, SEPT 18 FALL ON THE FARM AT BLOOMS & BERRIES FARM MARKET

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SUN 19 PJ Library Snacks and

Cinema in the Sukkah Calling all PJ Library families and friends! Let’s gather together under the sukkah for an afternoon filled with snacks and a movie! For families with children ages 8 & under. • Location: Mayerson JCC, Time: 3:30 pm, mayersonjcc.org FREE (with RSVP)

Ault in Bloom Enjoy rose exhibits, flower arranging demonstrations, kids’ crafts, live music, free ice-cream treats, and fresh-cut rose blooms for sale.

Consulting Rosarians and Master Gardeners will be available to answer your questions, and Doscher’s Candy truck will be in attendance. • Location: Ault Park, Time: 1- 4 pm, rosesgcra.org/events/ault-inbloom FREE

Hispanic Heritage Festival Join Great Parks in celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month at our inaugural Hispanic Heritage Festival! Enjoy dancing, performances, live music, crafts, food trucks and more. Local organizations will also be in attendance sharing more on the programs they provide our community. Food and beverage will be available for purchase. • Location: Sharon Woods, Time: Noon- 5 pm, greatparks.org

MON 20 Jump, Wiggle and Shout This program is all about silly wiggles, goofy babbles, and having fun and making friends. Your little one will have a blast movin' and groovin' to music while developing coordination, balance, listening skills, and gross motor skills. An adult companion must attend.

The program will take place outdoors; rain cancels.

Pre-registration is required. • Location: Bellbrook Park District Headquarters, Time: 11 am- Noon, bellbrooksugarcreekparks.org

TUES 21 Storytime: Library

WED 22 Outdoor Storytime:

Family Join Ms. Kelly outside and enjoy books, songs, and activities, while building early literacy skills. Please bring a blanket or chair to sit on.

Weather permitting. • Location: Reading Branch Library, Time: 10:30- 11:15 am, cincinnatilibrary.org FREE

Chipmunk Adventures for Preschool Children: Animals Make Bubbles Too Classes for preschool children, ages 2-5 years old, accompanied by an adult. Every session offers nature hands-on activities, artworks, songs, stories, visits with the animals, and always special hikes! By exploring, stretching our imaginations and much more, we continue to increase our sense of wonder! Individual classes are $25 for members, $30 for nonmembers. Register by calling 937-890-7360 or in person at Aullwood. • Location: Charity A. Krueger Farm Discovery Center at Aullwood Aububon Farm, Time: 10:00-11:45 pm, aullwood.org

FRI 24 – SAT 25 Loveland

Oktoberfest Head to historic Loveland for German fun and food including a stein hoist competition, weiner dog races, Nisbet Park Biergarten featuring Warsteiner (tips to benefit Cancer Free Kids!), lederhosen competition. • Location: Downtown Loveland, Time: 5-11 pm, facebook.com/ events/338166157760701/

FRI 24 – SUN 26 Oktoberfest at

Dayton Art Institute A Dayton tradition since 1972, Oktoberfest includes artisans, unique international foods, one of the best selections of domestic, international and craft beers in the area, family-friendly art activities, live music, a Weingarten with a variety of international wines, and much more!

• Location: Dayton Art Institute, Time: Fri/ Sat: Noon11:30 pm, Sun: Noon- 7pm, daytonartinstitute.org

SAT 25 PawPaw Ice Cream Day THURS 23 Footloose Based on the hit

1984 film, tells the story of Ren, as he moves from the big city of Chicago to small town U.S.A. Unprepared for religious local edicts, including a ban on dancing instituted by the local pastor, Ren sets out to bring forgotten joy to his new friends. • Location: La Comedia Dinner Theatre, lacomedia.com *ONGOING

THURS 23 – SUN 26

Kaplan New Works in the Park Kaplan New Works in the Park will be a ‘breath of fresh air,’ featuring groundbreaking choreography in a welcoming community space. This ambitious program will include world premieres from DANCEFIX phenom Heather Britt and three company dancers. • Location: Seasongood Pavilion in Eden Park, Time: see website for times, cballet.org/kaplan-new-works-in-the-park

for Families Calling all ice cream connoisseurs! Join them for a fun afternoon of learning about Pawpaw trees and their fruit. • Location: Cincinnati Nature Center, Time: 1-2 pm, cincynature.org

Classic Car Show & Drive-In… KID STYLE Does your child own a Power Wheels? How about a pedal car? Any other unique riding toy? Bring them out for this one-of-a-kind car show event for kids only. • Location: Greene County Parks, Time: Noon- 3pm, gcparkstrails.com

Things that Flutter: Monarch & Butterfly Hunt Let’s search for butterflies!

This park is full of wonderful plants for pollinators, and tons of butterflies. • Location: Forest Run MetroPark, Time: 11 am- 1 pm, yourmetroparks.net FREE

Babies Fun for you and your baby with songs, rhymes, stories and movement. Recommended for ages birth – 18 months. • Location: Blue Ash Branch

Art Waves Enjoy the Arts @ Parks: Fernbank Park Enjoy free, live performances from Madcap Puppets, Cultural Centre of India, Revolution of Dance Theatre and The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati. • Location: Fernbank

Library, Time: 10:30-11 am, cincinnatilibrary.org FREE

Park, Time: 1-5 pm, greatparks.org

Family Fall Fest The festival is an opportunity for families to enjoy an evening of fun.

Children of all ages will enjoy a petting zoo, pony rides, carnival games, inflatables, balloon artist, rock wall, hayride, family crafts and much more. EVERY ACTIVITY IS FREE. Food trucks will be available to purchase dinner or snacks. Overflow parking is available with shuttle. • Location: The Gathering in Centerville, Time: 4:00-7:00 pm, daytonfallfest.com FREE

SAT, SEPT 25 THROUGH SUN, SEPT 26 COUNTRY APPLEFEST AT WARREN COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS

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SAT 25 – SUN 26 Ish Festival The

festival brings artists and communities together to explore Jewish and Israeli cultural traditions through the arts. Saturday night is a ticketed night market and concert. Sunday is open and free to the public. • Location: Washington Park, ishfestival.org

Art & Music Festival Featuring the 19th Annual Art Fair, this juried show brings together artists and vendors who sell their handmade creations throughout the weekend. Booths are set amongst the monumental modern and contemporary sculptures around the grounds. Plus, enjoy live music, family activities, local food trucks and the Fretboard Beer Garden. • Location: Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum, Time: See website for details, pyramidhill.org/ events

Country Applefest Lebanon's only 2 day arts and crafts festival! The festival features over 300 arts, crafts and food vendors, as well as live entertainment each day. • Location: Warren County

Fairgrounds, Time: 10 am, countryapplefest.com FREE

Great Outdoor Weekend 2021 Get outdoors! Throughout the weekend of September 25 and 26, kids and adults of all ages can sample a wide range of the best outdoor recreation and nature awareness programs available across Southwest Ohio, Northern Kentucky and Southeast Indiana. Paddle the Mill Creek or canoe the Little Miami River, learn outdoor survival skills, enjoy birdwatching, take a free 10-minute golf lesson, wake up with a Sunday morning rooftop yoga class, or venture out on a self-directed nature scavenger hunt. Check our website for the full schedule! • Location: Multiple Locations, greatoutdoorweekend.org

SUN 26 Cincinnati Reds Baseball

Watch as the Cincinnati Reds take on the Washington Nationals at the Great American Ballpark! • Location:

ONGOING EVENTS Fall on the Farm at Blooms & Berries Farm Market September 18 through October 31 - Open Daily! Fall Activities – Fall is for FAMILY! Hayrides, Pumpkin Bounce Pad, Pumpkin Patch Hayrides, 5-Acre Corn Maze, Mini Corn Maze, Bee Train, Play Area, Farm Animals, Bakery Goodies, Caramel Apples, Spookley’s Storybook Trail & MORE! Online ticket purchasing required. • Location: Bloom & Berries Farm Market, bloomsandberries.com/check-out-our-fall-fun-festival

Butterflies of Bali Through Sept. 6.

Each spring, thousands of free-flying butterflies flutter among visitors and throughout the tropical landscape inside Krohn Conservatory. This year marks the 25th anniversary and features Butterflies of Bali. Visitors will also encounter a bit of Bali, referred to as “the island of 1000 Temples," with a mountainous interior full of lush forests, iconic rice paddies, clear lakes and gorgeous beaches surrounding the island. • Location: Krohn Conservatory, Time: timed ticket entry, cincinnatiparks.com/krohn/

Everything Thomas Through September Join them for our celebration of Thomas the Train with Thomas-themed train layouts, videos, scavenger hunt, coloring and crafts. Enjoy our kid’s train ride PLUS see all our Thomas & Friends merchandise all 15%-50% off! • Location: EnterTRAINment Junction, 6.

entertrainmentjunction.com

Great American Ballpark, Time: 1 pm, mlb.com/reds

MON 27 Pop Up Family Storytime Crafts, music, stories, STEM experiments - you never know what will POP UP outside your Library, weather-permitting (and following all health and safety guidelines). • Location: Vandalia Branch Library, Time: 12:30-1:30 pm, daytonmetrolibrary.org FREE

TUES 28 Pop Up Program: Baby & Toddler Storytime Parents and caregivers, bring your little ones to the library for stories, songs, nursery rhymes and fingerplays. For children up to 36 months. This program will be outside (weather permitting). • Location: West Carrollton Branch Library, Time: 10:30- 11 am, daytonmetrolibrary.org FREE

WED 29 Summer Cinema Bring a

blanket or lawn chair for free weekly movies at Washington Park. Food trucks will be on site for families to enjoy! This week’s movie features Coco! •

Location: Washington Park, Time: 9 pm, washingtonpark. org/series/summer-cinema-2 FREE

THURS 30 Wild with My Child

During this self-paced discovery program, young children and their caregivers will explore nature together through multiple senses and outdoor exploration. • Location: Cincinnati Nature Center, Time: 10 am, cincynature.org

Summer Concerts in the Park Saturdays Through September. Whether you’re a fan of rock, the blues, reggae or anything in between, get outside to enjoy a lineup of popular local bands.

Catch these free summer concerts at four of your favorite Great Parks, featuring talented bands from across Greater Cincinnati! • Location: Various Locations, greatparks.org/calendar/special-events/summerconcerts-in-the-park

Free Concerts at Levitt Pavilion Thursday-Saturdays through September. Live returns to the Levitt Dayton stage this summer with a diverse array of genres including bluegrass, hip hop, jazz, blues, funk, R&B, gospel, Christian, Celtic, classical, rock, country, Latin, reggae, ska, and psychobilly. • Location: Levitt Pavillion, levittdayton. org/

Asteroid Hunters Venture into deep space for a fascinating look at asteroids, their cosmic origins and the potential threat they pose to our world with the film Asteroid Hunters. Narrated by Daisy Ridley, Asteroid Hunters introduces asteroid scientists and reveals the cutting-edge tools and techniques they use to detect and track asteroids, and the technology that may one day protect our planet. Witness the latest in planetary defense and how science, ingenuity and determination combine to explore the world’s most preventable natural disaster. Narrated by Daisy Ridley.

• Location: Cincinnati Museum Center, cincymuseum.org/ asteroid-hunters/

Ohio Renaissance Festival

Saturday & Sundays September 04 through October 31. Visit

a 16th century village filled with thrilling shows, food & drink, unique shops, and a fantasy adventure like no other! • Location: Ohio Renaissance Festival, renfestival. com

Jack O’Lantern Junction September 18 through October 31. Halloween fun for the whole family! Walk thru their indoor, kid friendly maze and see friendly ghosts, skeletons and more. Each child will receive a bag of trick-or-treat candy! Plus, see the new Halloween mini scenes and a Halloween themed train display. • Location: EnterTRAINment Junction, entertrainmentjunction.com

Footloose September 23 through October 31. Based on the hit 1984 film, tells the story of Ren, as he moves from the big city of Chicago to small town U.S.A. Unprepared for religious local edicts, including a ban on dancing instituted by the local pastor, Ren sets out to bring forgotten joy to his new friends. • Location: La Comedia Dinner Theatre, lacomedia.com

Tricks And Treats Fall Fest

Saturdays and Sundays only, September 25 Through October 31. Make no bones about it, Kings Island’s

Tricks And Treats Fall Fest is Cincinnati’s favorite event for family-friendly Halloween activities and fall fun. Join us at this one-of-a-kind fall festival to make special memories and enjoy the spooky season.

Everyone in the family will have a great time with amazing food, activities, live entertainment, more than a dozen trick-or-treat stops, costume contests, crafts, games, seasonal merchandise and so much more. All of the park's rides and attractions are open during the fall event (except for water attractions), which adds to the fun for guests of all ages. • Location: Kings Island, visitkingsisland.com/events/tricks-and-treats-fall-fest

Great Bear Rainforest

Thursdays through Sundays, 10am-4pm. Travel to the land of

grizzlies, coastal wolves, sea otters, humpback whales and the fabled white Spirit Bear – one of the rarest animals on Earth. Set in one of the planet’s most exquisite and secluded wildernesses on Canada’s rugged Pacific coast, Great Bear Rainforest is a story of wilderness and balance, belief and preservation.

Narrated by Ryan Reynolds. • Location: Cincinnati

PLEASE NOTE WE WORK HARD TO ENSURE OUR CALENDAR AND GUIDE INFORMATION IS ACCURATE. OCCASIONALLY, EVENT SPECIFICS CHANGE AFTER WE GO TO PRESS. THEREFORE, WE ENCOURAGE OUR READERS TO CALL LOCATIONS OR VISIT THEM ON THE WEB TO VERIFY INFORMATION.

Museum Center, cincymuseum.org/great-bearrainforest/

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AROUND TOWN

Corn Mazes to Conquer this Fall Get lost in one of these 8 great southwest Ohio corn mazes.

Fall may just be the busiest time of year around Ohio when it comes to outdoor fun.

Everywhere you turn, there’s a pumpkin patch, apple orchard or epic corn maze to discover. As far as corn mazes go, we’ve got a list that will lead you in the right direction. Of course, once you enter one of these 9 awesome corn mazes, it’s up to you to make your way out!

Here are 8 corn mazes in Southwest Ohio you must conquer this fall:

Young’s Jersey Dairy A trip to Young’s is the ultimate fall family fun destination and their adorable “Cowvin’s Corn Maze” is part of the excitement. It’s 3.5 acres of winding paths that are worth conquering, especially if it means a scoop of Young’s famous ice cream afterward. The maze is open for weekends August 7th, then daily starting September 18th from 11 am-6 pm.

6880 Springfield Xenia Road, Yellow Springs

Blooms & Berries Farm Market

Neltner's Farm At just over three acres, the corn maze at Neltner’s is perfect for families. The maze is open weekends, as well as during the week, and it’s the perfect place to spend a lovely fall afternoon.

Blooms and Berries in Loveland is a one-stop-shop when it comes to fall fun. Each year Blooms & Berries gets creative with two themed mazes: a larger maze that’s not for the faint of heart, and also a smaller maze for young ones who want to get in on the fun.

6922 Four Mile Road, Melbourne, KY

9669 S. OH-48 Loveland

Niederman Farm

Brown's Family Farm Market This hidden gem is quite possibly the best-kept secret for fall fun in Southwest Ohio. Fall is the best time to visit Brown’s; kids can visit u-pick pumpkin patch, go on hayrides, tackle the corn and straw mazes, visit the farm animals and enjoy several play areas. There is plenty of good, old-fashioned farm fun to be had, making Browns a welcome change-of-pace from some of the area’s busier fall festivals. The corn maze at Brown’s is two acres, so it’s very doable to young families.

11620 Hamilton Cleves Road, Hamilton

Burwinkel Farms A trip to the corn maze at Burwinkel Farms will have you smiling from start to finish. Why? Because it’s a corn-and-sunflower maze comprised of tall, smiling sunflowers This small, familyowned farm is a delightful spot to try out the maze, as well as take a nostalgic hayride to the patch to find that perfect pumpkin.

4359 Hamilton Cleves Road, Ross

Irons Fruit Farm This Warren County gem isn’t just an awesome place for U-Pick fun.

The epic 12-acre corn maze at Irons Fruit Farm is always a fun time each fall. The themes change each year and are unique and exciting to wander through. (2021 dates TBD)

Located in West Chester, Niederman Family Farm captures the country beauty of Butler County. Niederman’s corn mazes are stunning visual masterpieces.

The four-acre corn maze is just the right size for adventurous families, who will love this laid-back fall festival.

5110 Lesourdsville West Chester Road, Liberty Township

Tom's Maze and Pumpkin Farm This award winning corn maze is one you can’t miss this fall. Don’t settle for a cookie-cutter corn MAZE that only looks good from the air but leaves little to the imagination on the ground. Tom’s Maze is grown from the ground up.

8 fun-filled acres of corn on the cob.

It’s more than just a regular Corn Maze. Solve the Puzzle and Escape the Maze!

4881 Germantown-Liberty Road, Germantown

1640 Stubbs-Mill Road, Lebanon

LEFT // BURWINKEL FARMS TOP // NELTNER'S FARM

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These 8 great corn mazes are sure to add some excitement to your fall calendar this year. We challenge you to try them all!

SOUTHWEST OHIO PARENT'S

fun & SUN

WACKY calendar 09.2021

MON

TUES

WEDS

THURS

FRI

2

1 LETTER WRITING DAY

5

6

CHEESE PIZZA DAY

7 BUY A BOOK DAY

12

13

14

PEANUT DAY

9 TEDDY BEAR DAY

15

4

3 SKYSCRAPER DAY

BEARD DAY

11

10 ALPACA DAY MAKE YOUR BED DAY

16

17

YOM KIPPUR GOBSTOPPER DAY

VIDEO GAMES DAY

APPLE DUMPLING DAY

18 GYMNASTIC DAY

PLAY DOH DAY

19 TALK LIKE A PIRATE DAY

BLUEBERRY POPSICLE DAY

8 QUIET DAY

SAT

20 PEPPERONI PIZZA DAY

26

27

21 MINIATURE GOLF DAY

28

22 FIRST DAY OF FALL

29

FAMILY DAY RIVERS DAY

SOURCE: daysoftheyear.com

GOOD NEIGHBOR DAY

23 EDUCATION TECHNOLOGY DAY

25

24 NATIVE AMERICAN DAY

COMIC BOOK DAY

30 INTERNATIONAL PODCAST DAY

BISCOTTI DAY

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