Cincinnati Parent // 11.2010

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Families Building

Siblings of children with special needs deserve quality time, too

November 2010 * CINCINNATIPARENT.com

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BUILDING FAMILIES

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* Commentary & Parenting

eDITOR’s NOTE: Being Thankful by Teaching Tolerance

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mommy magic: Doing LIfe Together

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DEAR TEACHER: Your Questions of Teachers­—Answered

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* NEWS & SHOPPING

NEWS YOU CAN USE: Donations, Innovations, Walk/Runs & Authors

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* Around Town

arts & enrichment: Off the Beaten Path

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* HEALTH & WELLNESS

pediatric health: A Pediatrician’s Perspective on Childhood Obesity

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* RESOURCES

childcare & Education Directory

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OPEN HOUSE GUIDE

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arts & enrichment directory

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calendar

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fun & wacky calendar

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What about me?

Ask the Staff: Besides family and friends, what are you thankful for?

That our magazine continues to thrive in this economy.

My two favorite things... good food and my dogs!

The great weather we’ve had all summer and fall!

K at i e Pfier

m

KARA BLU

BU

RN

S

My 10 year wedding anniversary!

aN

My career!

And google.

M

MINT flavored M&Ms that are only sold over the holidays!!!

l

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ew

e

ip

h e at h e r

E

My bicycle.

My daily rides keep me sane!

ski

My awesome church!

ROXANN

jennica za

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KAREN RING

co mm e nta ry & pa r e ntin 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

ACCOUNTANT Roxanne Burns

roxanne@cincinnatiparent.com

OFFICE MANAGER Karen Ring

karen@cincinnatiparent.com

COVER PHOTOGRAPHY © ISTOCKPHOTO

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Pubisher’s Note

Being Thankful by Teaching Tolerance

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Using the Holidays to Teach Life Lessons

can’t believe it is already November! The holiday season officially begins this month. This is a great time of year to plan celebrations with family and friends and to reflect on the past year. Thanksgiving is a wonderful holiday as it is a time to give thanks without the gifts and trappings and to truly enjoy the season with our families.

Up” campaign to educate the 75-85% of children who are witnesses to bullying. So why should they target witnesses to bullies? Because strength in numbers is a vital part to combating bullying.

Over 160,000 elementary students stayed home from school last year because they were afraid of a bully. 19% of all elementary students are bullied each year. It is time that we teach our children right from wrong — bullying is not acceptable—ever. We need to teach children that if they witness an incident, whether towards themselves or others, they need to report it to a teacher or parent as many times as it takes to put an end to bullying. Many children are afraid that they will become a target of the bully if they report the problem, but you must teach your child to take the high road and be a good citizen by not allowing anyone to be bullied in their presence.

This is the perfect time to teach your children the lesson of being thankful. As many of you are aware, bullying has come to the forefront of the media and is escalating in epidemic proportions. You’ve heard about the recent suicides of Asher Brown, 13; Justin Aaberg, 15; Tyler Clementi, 18 and Billy Lucas, 15. The fact of the matter is that for every 25 children who attempt to commit suicide, one child succeeds. This means that for each of these four children, 100 other children have attempted suicide.

Being bullied to the point that a child takes his or her life is heart-wrenching and we, as parents, should make The best prevention for bullying is teaching your children the lesson of being thankful and grateful an important the meaning of tolerance. As parents, the lesson of accepting all people regardless of their differences is the message this holiday season. right way to conduct your life. Lessons on tolerance can Last month, the Mayerson Academy hosted a series begin as young as three years old. Teaching your child on bullying and the attendance rate was beyond their to treat others with respect and to never treat someone expectations. Parents are so worried that their child negatively simply because of their race, gender, skin color, could be a target or even possibly a bully themselves that disability or otherwise is imperative. What a boring place schools are initiating new policies to protect children this world would be if we were all alike! Make a point against bullies. I believe that the children, too, must all of introducing them to others who are different than he be taught about bullying at a very young age. Cartoon or she is. Remember the lesson in To Kill a Mockingbird: Network recently launched their “Stop Bullying: Speak Always think about how you would feel in the other

person’s shoes. Most importantly, be sure to practice what you preach. Don’t say negative things about other people in front of your children. Believe it or not, much of their future actions and beliefs are forged at home—you are your child’s best teacher—first and foremost.

We will be covering the topic of bullying in our March issue called “March Against Bullying” where we will cover this issue much more thoroughly. If you have suggestions or would like to help us in this initiative, e-mail your ideas to editor@cincinnatiparent.com.

In the meantime, during this season of giving thanks, make sure that you instill the message of being thankful for your family, friends, and all people in our world (regardless of their unique differences). If we, as parents, encourage our children to be kind at a young age, to be aware of how they are treating others (and how they are being treated) our children will not only avoid bullying, but they will also pass on the torch of tolerance to others they encounter throughout their lifetime.

We would like to wish all of our readers a Happy Thanksgiving! We are thankful to have you as a reader and welcome your feedback and comments. Please feel free to contact me directly at mary@cincinnatiparent.com.

—Mary Cox Publisher and President

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.

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CINCINNATIPARENT.COM 5

N E WS & SH O PPI N G

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news you can use

100+ 1 Thanksgiving Day 10k Walk and Run It’s time to add one more fun thing to your calendar—the 100+1. Thanksgiving Day 10k. In fact, add it to everyone’s calendar—your family, friends, colleagues. It all adds up to a good healthy life—your best life. That is why it’s the theme of the 2010 walk and run.

We all know that it’s the little changes in life that make a big difference—one tiny humble step at a time—each and every day. Suddenly, you awake one fine morning and notice you have changed; and, you have changed your world.

Molly Maid Accepting Donations to Warm Others

So, join us on Thanksgiving day (Thursday, November 25) at 9 a.m. at Paul Brown Stadium in downtown Cincinnati. For more information visit www.thanksgivingdayrace.com.

Soon the cold and snow will be upon us, but not all of us will be prepared. Please join Molly Maid in helping those in need stay warm this winter. In partnership with The Welcome House of Northern Kentucky, Molly Maid will be accepting donations of new or gently used hats, gloves and scarves, so that we all can be warm this year.

Accepting paper products and toiletries, as well. Help Molly Maid help others and receive a little holiday help for yourself. See ad on page 27 of this issue of Cincinnati Parent for details or call 859-341-2110.

Drake Planetarium Installs Weather Station for Student Use: Students Can Observe Tornados and Lightning Storms at a Distance Drake Planetarium kicked off installation of their new WeatherBug Weather Station in October. This Weather Station is the centerpiece of the new “Forces Of Weather” program offered to Kindergarten through Grade 12 students throughout the tri-state. With the WeatherBug Weather Station, students can compare live weather data in any geographic region where there is a WeatherBug site receiving data. So, if there is a forest fire in

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Colorado, students can go to that area to retrieve actual pictures and data from that local WeatherBug site.

The “Forces Of Weather” program is part of Drake Planetarium’s STEM Programming that uses cuttingedge technology to help the community gain a deeper understanding of space and earth sciences. To support this innovative program, the Best Buy Co., Inc. has provided Drake Planetarium with a $5,000 Community Grant. Drake Planetarium was chosen as a grant recipient because of their dedication to empowering young people to excel in school, engage in their community, and develop leadership skills.

For more information visit www.drakeplanetarium.org

Author Coming to Cincinnati to Share Hilarious Camp Letters Diane Falanga, author of PS I Hate It Here: Kids Letters from Camp, is coming to Cincinnati to share her story and the story of how this hilarious collection of letters came into being. Anyone who has been to summer camp or sent their children will relate to Diane’s tales of nervous parents and camper’s complaints. All of the letters in the book are written by 8 to 16 year old campers sharing their experiences with friends and family and will have you reminiscing about your camp days and sharing a good laugh. This is a FREE event sponsored

by Camp Livingston and the Mayerson JCC on Tuesday, November 9th at 7pm at the Mayerson JCC, 8485 Ridge Road. Books will be available for purchase.

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mommy magic

Doing Life Together

Creating a Friendship Network

With Thanksgiving right around the corner, I find myself taking stock in what I am grateful for as a mother. Of course, at the top of my list is family. It is easy to forget between folding laundry and endless hours of running the kids to practices and lessons that, as moms, having a support system outside of our children is vital to maintaining our sanity in the daily chaos of motherhood. Sometimes we forget to be thankful for those who make us feel like, you know—ourselves. When I am in my most worn down or exhausted state, a phone call or an evening out with a special friend can give me the boost I need to have a fresh and new perspective. As I get older, I realize that it is not the quantity of friends that I have, but the quality.

of us “DID LIFE TOGETHER.” I was taken aback by her choice of words – “did life together”—that phrase moved me and I quickly began to tear up.

These four women, now in their mid sixties, had decided 40 years ago to lock arms and probably made an unspoken pack to “do life together.”

They leaned on one another when someone lost a job, they fixed a meal for one another when someone lost a loved one, and they helped babysit each other’s children when needed over the years. They laughed in the good times and huddled together and cried during the bad times. No matter what the circumstance, it was apparent to everyone in that room that they had each other’s back. No questions asked – they knew who they could count on. There they stood with sullen faces, missing their lifelong friend, but dedicated to honoring her memory and making a difference in her name.

I recently went to a fundraiser that honored a woman who battled Ovarian Cancer. Her four best friends stood up in front of hundreds of attendees to talk about their dear friend that they had lost to Ovarian Cancer. There they stood on a stage, locked arm-in-arm, facing the crowd. One took the microphone and said, “We are here to honor our friend, Susie. You see, the five

For daily Mommy Magic tips become a fan of Mommy Upon leaving that event, it made me reflect on who are the Magic on Face Book! individuals in my life that I “lock arms” with to “do life.” In the Mary Susan Buhner is a Life Coach for Moms and author madness of motherhood today, we moms need to lock arms with of “Mommy Magic: Tricks for Staying Sane in the Midst those we trust and love as we raise our children. I am thankful, of Insanity” Visit www.Mommy-Magic.com for more information. Become a Fan of Mommy Magic on FaceBook! of course, for my family. I am equally thankful for those few special friends who help me with the journey of motherhood.

...this Thanksgiving season, I encourage you to connect with those friends who inspire you, make you laugh and just flat out understand you.

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I have to admit, it is easy to get caught up and invest in casual friendships out of convenience. It seems that I see a lot of the same “mom friends” due to my children’s activities. Much of the time it feels like I have connected to a lot of different people. At the end of the day, I am too tired or it is too busy with my kids to make the effort and make plans with those friends that truly understand, love and inspire me to be my best, both as a mom and a friend.

Seeing these women locked arm and arm at this fundraiser reminded me that now more than ever, during this busy time of my life as a mom, I must make the time with those special friends. So, with that, this Thanksgiving season, I encourage you to connect with those friends who inspire you, make you laugh and just f lat out understand you. It may be a phone call to a friend in another city, it may be a lunch with a friend who lives close by—whatever it is, make that connection with them, thank them for their special friendship and decide to lock arms with them as you “do life together” as friends. May you have a blessed and wonderful Thanksgiving season!

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Families Building

very child deserves a home and family. Unfortunately, not every child receives the love, nurturing and support they want and need. According to a 2005 report completed by Casey Family Services, a national philanthropic organization, there are more than 500,000 American youth and young adults in foster care. That’s an appalling number of children searching for love and acceptance and a home to call their own.

Becoming an adoptive or foster parent is a huge decision and incredible responsibility.

Welcoming a child into your home can be rewarding for the parents, but the most important issue is what will be right for the child. Fortunately, there are many places locally to provide prospective parents with the information, knowledge, tools, and education they need.

How do I become a Foster Parent?

In Ohio, on any given day, there were 22,000 children in need of foster care. Of that, approximately 3,000 are waiting to be adopted (according to study completed in 2004). The goal of foster care is to provide a safe, protective and therapeutic atmosphere for children who have been traumatized in some way until which time they can either be reunited with their family or become ready to find a new permanent home.

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Foster-parenting is a huge undertaking and is not at all the uncaring “ just in it for the money” situation it is often considered. In fact, fostering a child is a very unselfish act and families are paid a low daily per diem to cover basic needs of the child. Foster families go through extensive training, education and background checks and must be dedicated to doing what is right for the child, first and foremost. According to state guidelines, potential foster parents must complete 36 hours of core training and 40-60 hours of additional training per certification period.

Persons must be at least 21 years of age and pass a criminal history, background and BMV check. They must demonstrate financial stability and rent or own a home that meets physical safety standards. All family members must be in good medical condition and must provide statements from a physician.

Lastly, a licensed social worker will conduct a Home Study with the family. This consists of a personal assessment of each member of the family to determine the sturdiness of relationships, upbringing and philosophies.

The Home Study is updated each year the family stays in the fostering program.

The National Youth Advocate Program (NYAP) has provided community-based services and support to children and families since 1978, and currently works with 55 homes in the Cincinnati area. According to Kandi Staples, Regional Manager of the South Region, the main focus of NYAP is placing a child with the right family that will

be a lasting, safe home for that child. She also stresses the importance of keeping a child in his or her own community. “It’s important to keep kids in their own area,” she says.

“And we are in need of good stable homes in all neighborhoods.” Visit the NYAP website at nyap.org for more information on the services they offer.

Hamilton County Job and Family Services ( JFS) offers both fostering and adoption services. JFS contracts with several private agencies to provide needed foster care services. According to Brian Gregg, JFS Chief Communications Officer, there are currently approximately 850 foster children in the Cincinnati area.

Brian stresses the need in Cincinnati for people willing to foster and adopt teens.

“People feel they can make a bigger impact by adopting a younger child, but that’s not always the case,” he says. “You could drastically turn the life of a teen around. They just need to feel that someone cares for them; that someone is there to say ‘I’m not going to leave you.’” A plethora of information and resources for those interested in foster or adopting in the Hamilton County area is available at HCKids.org.

Beech Acres Parenting Center specializes in both Family and Treatment foster care.

Though Family or “traditional” treatment is often considered less intense than Treatment foster care, Julie Knueven of the Center stresses that families considering fostering

understand that all children in foster care need some kind of specialized care. “Even though it’s called traditional, all children who have been displaced from their home will have some issues,” she says. The staff provides guidance and support through training, home visits and an emergency crisis system for both parents and children in the fostering program.

In addition, Beech Acres offers parenting education classes for all parents, not just fostering parents and stresses their mission to strengthen families for children. For more information, visit Beachacres.org.

Focus on Youth is a faith-based foster care and adoption agency founded in 1992

by Executive Director Cindy Skinner.

Focus on Youth currently serves 61 foster families and has served over 1200 children over the past 18 years.

Cindy also stresses the real need for families willing to foster teens. Cindy has fostered teens for about 20 years herself and this is the real reason she started Focus. She felt like if people were better trained, they would be more willing and able to tr y fostering teens. Therefore, Focus also offers on-going training classes and support year round to keep families informed and allow them the opportunity to seek guidance. For more information visit Focusonyouth.com Another great oppor tunit y for those wishing to help foster children is ProKids, a nonprof it organization that trains and supports volunteers to help keep abused and neglected children from “slipping through

To become a foster fam ily, Cindy recommends carefully researching local agencies to f ind one that best f its your needs. “The private agencies are all so different. It’s important to interview each one carefully and f ind out which one f its your needs and expectations the best,” she says. Check the social workers’ licenses, their licensing program, their training program and their support system. But, most of all, says Cindy, “Make sure you are doing it for the right reasons. It’s not about your needs. It’s about the needs of the child.”

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the cracks of the foster care system.”

ProK ids trains volunteers to become CASAs, or Court Appointed Special Advocates. Each volunteer is then assigned to a child or a set of siblings to make sure his or her needs are being met and that the child is safe.

“These volunteers go through extensive background checks including, but not lim ited to, local, count y, state and national, 15 two hour classes, one-hour court observation, interview and reference checks,” says Regina Germano, CASA Universit y Manager/CASA Manager.

“Additional ly, each year, the CASA volunteer must do 12 hours of continuing educational classes.”

Currently, ProKids have approximately 160 active CASA volunteers. “They come from all walks of life – and they volunteer for us because they are concerned about the outcomes for these children,” says Regina. “In 2009, ProKids served 436 children, thanks to the generosity of our volunteers’ time.”

Regina stresses the need for more CASA volunteers. “If we are to ser ve more children, we need to have more volunteers,” she says. “The f irst step to learning more is to come to the off ice for a Snapshot.

These are one-hour informational events we do ever y week.” To sign up, or for more information, visit www.prokids.org.

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Are you ready to adopt?

Everyone considering adoption has no doubt heard the horror stories; the high prices, the long waits. However, this is not necessarily always the case. Adoption can often take less than a year and through many agencies and services, the cost does not have to be outrageous.

The adoption process includes selecting an adoption agency, searching for a child, filing a petition to adopt and finalizing the adoption.

Most Agencies require the adoptive parents to attend training in which potential parents learn about issues that arise during and after adoption, as well as any disabilities or cultural differences their child may have.

The state of Ohio also requires a Family Preparation Assessment, also called a Home Study. A social worker will meet with the adoptive family to learn more about them and their home. They will write a Home Study Report based on their meeting with the adoptive family and various required documents such as birth certificates, divorce decrees and child abuse and criminal record clearances. Adoptive families also will need to verify their income, get a statement of health from their doctor, get fingerprinted and provide references.

Adoption Connection is a private, non-profit Ohio-licensed adoption agency that has been in business since 1943 and facilitates

both domestic and international adoptions.

Director Samantha Tebelman is very proud of her staff which consists of 8 master level social workers with over 100 years combined experience in adoption.

“All are very passionate about the work they do,” says Samantha. “We offer supportive services for families and provide them guidance and good information throughout the process.” In addition, Adoption Connection offers birth parent counseling for life.

Whether you are beginning your adoption journey or just starting to explore adoption, Adoption Connection offers free adoption or ientations, providing introductor y information about the adoption process and answering questions. For more information, visit adoptioncincinnati.org.

adopted children bring with them unique and complex health, developmental and mental issues. IAC offers support with these issues including educational programs, pre-adoption health reviews with the family and a post adoption clinic to examine, treat and get the children off to a good start in their new home.

They are also constantly researching trends and issues to better understand the problems internationally adopted children may face.

For those who have or are planning to adopt internationally, the International Adoption Center (IAC) at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital offers care and support for immigrant children, their adoptive parents and the doctors who treat them.

“The IAC staff is knowledgeable about the unique medical and social conditions of children from other countries, is skilled in managing infectious diseases, and understands the developmental and psychological impact of institutionalization. International Adoption Center offers ready access to highly qualified specialists in numerous fields.”

IAC Director and pediatrician, Dr. Mary Staat, states that often these internationally

To contact the International Adoption Center at Cincinnati Children’s, you may call 513-

636-2877 or visit CincinnatiChildrens. org for more information.

Celebrate Adoption was formed in 1989 by Adoption Connection to provide support and resources for adoptive families. Patty Bonem, adoption social worker and facilitator of Celebrate Adoption says that the entire organization is run by dedicated volunteers, and membership is open to both adoptive and potential adoptive families, as well as extended families.

“It’s a wonderful resource for everyone touched by adoption,” she says.

In honor of National Adoption Month, a special workshop will be held on Sunday, November 14 from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Attendance is open to both members and non-members. Family membership for Celebrate Adoption is $35 a year. You can download a membership form on the website at celebrateadoptioncincinnati.com Regardless of whether you are considering adoption or fostering, it’s an extraordinary way to build a family that requires patience, per severa nce a nd ded icat ion. Most importantly, you can make the difference in the life of a child in need. And that’s what matters most.

Rebecca Todd is a freelance writer and author of the book What’s the Point? -- Looking for Logic in Modern America.

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Co mm e nta ry & Pa r e ntin g

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dear teacher

How to Handle an Underachiever, Parents’ Role in Teaching Children, Handling a Misbehaving First Grader Your Questions of Teachers—Answered

How to Handle an Underachiever Question: We have been struggling with our 10-year-old son, who is definitely an underachiever. He has been evaluated/tested recently and was not found to have any learning disabilities. His IQ tested in the gifted range.

Last year, it was a nightmare trying to get him to do his homework. The same thing is happening already this year. Punishment/rewards simply don’t work. I could “wax” forever over the struggles we have had with him. Do you have any recommendations to help him? - Defeated Answer: Ask him what it about his homework that he doesn’t want to do. He may say that he doesn’t want to do what he already knows. In this case, both of you should talk to his teacher or teachers about making a deal to reduce the homework load provided he is succeeding on tests without this practice. Another alternative is to have him be given more challenging assignments.

On the other hand, if your son says homework is boring but he is not doing well on tests, ask

what is holding him back on tests. He may say that he has trouble writing out the answers to test questions. In that case, he needs to be taught to organize his answers. Whatever he says is the problem, see that he gets help in this area.

High IQ scores are not always predictive of success in school. Many bright students need help in learning how to study or have areas of weakness that need to be worked on. Your son needs to learn the discipline of handling appropriate homework assignments. Look for the help that he needs now.

What Is Parents’ Role in Teaching Children?

Question: Our school says to leave the teaching of students to the teachers in our daughter’s preschool. Should we not supplement the learning experience at home as well? - Would-be Teacher Answer: We’re not 100 percent sure what the school means by this. They are probably referring to formal teaching of reading and math. This could include teaching your children phonics and sight words and

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basic addition. Why don’t you ask them exactly what e-mail from his teacher almost every day about his they mean? constant talking, making funny noises and getting out of his seat.The teacher has tried sending him Parents are their children’s first teachers. It is to the principal, eliminating recess and putting definitely your job to encourage and guide their him in the hall. I have taken away privileges, from learning. You do this by seeing that they have an TV time to play dates with friends. What can be adequate supply of play things, taking them on all done to change his behavior? The teacher says he kinds of adventures to help them learn as much appears to be gifted academically. - Misbehaving as possible about the world, and giving them the opportunity to play with other children and engage Answer: What your son is doing in the classroom is not unusual behavior for a firstin both indoor and outdoor activities. grader. It would be best handled in the classroom.

You prepare them to read by reading to them and Since the teacher doesn’t seem to know how to talking to them about stories.This is essential.You read handle the child, she should ask for help. One words on signs, menus, and lists so they get the idea of or more experienced teachers could visit the what reading is.You definitely can teach them to count classroom and make suggestions. and recognize the number of objects in small groups of objects.What you don’t have to do is to use workbooks You are too removed from your son’s behavior and worksheets to prepare your children to read and do to be punishing him after he has misbehaved.

Instead, do state that you expect him to behave math, this may be what the preschool means. well in the classroom. Also, it would be wise for Handling a Misbehaving you to visit the classroom and observe what First Grader he is doing. You might come up with some Question: My son, a first-grader, is a saint at good suggestions for the teacher based on your home, but he behaves terribly at school. I get an knowledge of what type of discipline works

with your child. For example, a behavior chart is helpful for some children.Your son might check each time he talks to classmates. Then the goal would be to reduce this number each day until it is at an appropriate level. Also, seating him in the back of the room could make his behavior less noticeable.

There is always the possibility that your bright child is misbehaving out of boredom. Perhaps he could be assigned more challenging work after he has completed routine assignments.This might turn things around. Also, he may need work on his social maturity in order to handle being in the classroom environment.

This teacher is spending an inordinate amount of time e-mailing you about your son. She also may not have good classroom-management skills.

While it is rarely possible to change teachers, a different teacher might be a better fit for him.

Parents should send questions and comments to dearteacher@dearteacher.com or ask them on the columnists’ Web site at www.dearteacher.com.

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GET ON

“BOARD”

Is Boarding School a Viable Education Option for Your Child?

When one hears “boarding school,” the association is usually with “high-priced school,” and “elite institution.” However, this is an antiquated idea that has been perpetuated by media and movies and is not necessarily the case in modern society. If a private education is something you are considering for your child, a boarding school may actually be an option.

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Why Boarding School?

A boarding school is an independent school where both the students and the faculty members live on campus. Today, there are many types of boarding schools including military, performing arts, religious, aeronautic, schools for troubled teens and countless others.

Boarding school students enjoy smaller class sizes and more individualized attention. The average teacher to student ratio is 1 to 6. Because teachers are always on hand, students needing additional assistance have an easier time contacting teachers and receiving one-on-one consultations. In addition, teachers and faculty usually have advanced degrees in education and other specialties.

Students attending boarding school can expect a broader selection of courses and extracurricular activities. A wide range of athletic and artistic options are also available. Students are encouraged to try new things. Many schools also offer study abroad.

The mission of boarding schools is not just to educate, but to create well-rounded individuals.

Though daily regimens are usually firmly enforced, boarding schools are not the strict, authoritative institutions they are often considered and students receive plenty of free time with an equal balance between work and play. Students attending boarding schools often have better attendance and behavior and due to the structure of the schools and through campus life, students learn responsibility, accountability, self-sufficiency, independence and citizenship in addition to their educational studies.

Additionally, because classes are usually longer and occasional half day Saturday classes are offered, the school year of many boarding schools is much shorter than that of day schools.

Summer breaks are longer and several long breaks are enjoyed throughout the year.

Boarding schools recruit students from a wide range of racial, geographic and economic backgrounds. Therefore, students enjoy forming a diverse range of friendships. Students also learn more about many different cultures and societies.

The Association of Boarding Schools (TABS) serves approximately 300 schools and offers a plethora of information on boarding school life, financial aid, as well as information on each school. Visit their website at tabs.org.

For more information on boarding schools in the immediate area, Midwest Boarding Schools (mwbs.org) offers information on 31 member schools throughout Arkansas, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio and Wisconsin.

Can I afford boarding school for my child?

The cost of boarding school tuition in America ranges from approximately $10,000 to $60,000 annually, with additional fees for activities, books and supplies. However, thanks to advances in financial aid, boarding schools can be an option for every child, not just those who are financially well-off. In fact, statistics show that at least one-third of all children attending boarding school are receiving some sort of financial aid.

When you are ready to apply for financial aid, begin by calculating your overall financial situation. Sites such as FinAid.org offer calculators to determine your Expected Family Contribution (EFC) and estimate your financial need. Another resource is the School and Student Service for Financial Aid, a service of the National Association of Independent Schools.

From their website (sss.nais.org), you can access the forms needed to apply for financial aid.

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Believe it or not, some boarding schools even offer free tuition.

A handful of boarding schools have pledged to cover the entire cost of attendance for low-income families.

In addition, you should contact the Financial Aid Officer at each school you are considering to find out what types of aid are offered by the school. “Our Admission Office encourages families to talk to schools early,” says Russ Morrison of Western Reserve Academy in Hudson, Ohio.

“Applying early means you have the best chance to receive aid.” Ask questions and pursue all avenues whether or not you feel you are qualified. Don’t forget to mention any extenuating circumstances your family may have such as older children in college or other special needs children.

Scholarships are one of the most popular forms of financial aid and virtually all schools offer them to some degree. Merit-based scholarships are scholarships that are awarded by the individual college or university and also by outside organizations not directly affiliated.

These scholarships are usually awarded for achievements in academics, but some offer merit scholarships in athletics, art, performance and citizenship. Scholarships are awarded despite the financial situation of the student and, of course; do not need to be paid back.

Families with lower incomes may qualify for help from the school in the form of need-based grants, which also do not need to be repaid. Schools typically require families to complete an application to determine the family’s ability to meet educational expenses. Families who demonstrate need may be provided with a grant to lower tuition, residence fees and supplies.

Grant amounts are dependent upon school budgets and costs and vary greatly from school to school.

Payment plans are another option often offered by boarding schools. These again vary school to school. Payment plans allow families to pay tuition on a weekly or, more often, monthly basis throughout the school year.

When grants and scholarships don’t fully cover the cost of tuition, student loans may also be an option for families in need of financial assistance. A private student loan will allow you to spread out payments over a longer period of time than a school’s personal payment plan.

20 CINCINNATI PARENT * NOVEMBER 2010

Some even offer a deferment plan, allowing you to begin payment after the education period is complete. Loans are independent of the schools, however, Financial Aid Officers should be able to direct you to financial institutions that offer K-12 student loans. Research specific details such as interest rates and payment schedules and compare deals between several different financial institutions.

Believe it or not, some boarding schools even offer free tuition. A handful of boarding schools have pledged to cover the entire cost of attendance for low-income families. For example, In November, 2007, Phillips Exeter Academy in New Hampshire began a new financial aid initiative that offers an education free to any accepted or current student whose family income is $75,000 or less. Groton School in Massachusetts has been offering the same plan since 2008.

Last but not least, if a boarding school education is important to you or your child, you might need to consider trimming your budget. A few less vacations, dinners out and extracurricular activities might make the difference. If you feel a private, boarding school education is the right option for your child, isn’t any sacrifice worth it?

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.

Childtime 100 West Plume Street, Norfolk, VA 23510 877-624-2602 www.childtime.com Empower your child.

Whatever path your child takes in life, a good starting place is essential.

At Childtime®, we encourage kids to explore, express themselves and learn through their own curiosity.

Start your child’s journey towards a lifetime love of learning at Childtime.

For information, call 877-624-2602 or visit www.childtime.com.

The Compass School 9370 Waterstone Blvd., Cincinnati, OH 45249 Contact: Laura Carr Phone: 513-683-8833 Fax: 513-683-8456 Email: CompassLC@yahoo.com www.TheCompassSchool.com Ages 6 weeks-6 years plus after school & summer camp up to age 12. Offering outstanding Reggio-Inspired full and parttime 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

22 CINCINNATI PARENT * NOVEMBER 2010

learning readiness where your child can prepare for academic achievement and lifelong success.

Kinder Garden School Blue Ash - 10969 Reed Hartman Highway, Blue Ash, OH 45242 Contact: Tami Lanham Phone: 513-791-4300 Email: tami@ kindergardenschool.com West Chester - 5900 West Chester Road, Ste. C, West Chester, OHIO 45069.

Contact: Trudi Simpson Phone: 513-874-3100 Email: trudi@ kindergardenschool.com www.kindergardenschool.com Grades: 6 weeks through kindergarten Enrollment: Please call or email.

Together with interaction of child, staff and family, we develop the complete child. In our Kinder Garden, we provide formative encouragement and knowledge with hands-on staff taking a personal interest in family and holistic education decisions for the child. Kinder Garden School is devoted to growing a child’s wish to flourish and learn by cultivating curiosity and problemsolving proficiency in a full supportive, fertile, fun setting. ENLIGHTENMENT IS OUR MISSION.

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. criticalthinking & 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: Ages 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 on-site.

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

Founded on Montessori principles in 1970, our wooded playgrounds, home-cooked meals and family-like setting in North Avondale’s Mitchell Mansion provide a stimulating and nurturing environment for learning.

We value diversity and create a caring and supportive community. Our graduates excel academically, but more importantly are empowered as citizens of our global community.

(Accredited by AMS and ISACS).

Upcoming Open House Dates: Sunday, November 14 (2-4PM), Sunday, January 30 (2-4PM) 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 Parttime available. AMS Affiliate

Non-Public

Cincinnati Country Day School 6905 Given Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45243 Phone: (513)979-0220 www.countryday.net Grades: Early Childhood

(18 months); 12th grade Enrollment: 800

CCDS is an independent, coeducational 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.

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, co-ed, 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.

Rockwern Academy 8401 Montgomery Road, Cincinnati, OH 45236 Contact: Gail Sperling Phone: 984-3770 x3112 Email: gasperling@ rockwernacademy.org 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.

Special Needs

Springer School and Center 2121 Madison Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45208 Phone: (513)871-6080

http://www.springer-ld.org Grades: 1st - 8th grade Enrollment: 200

For 40 years, Springer School and Center has empowered students with learning disabilities to become strategic learners, helping them to achieve success. Springer offers a day school for students ages 6-13 and outreach programs and learning disability resources for students, parents and teachers in the Greater Cincinnati area.

The Springer Experience. Success Changes Everything.

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

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

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

Are You Interested in Montessori Education?

Visit our website for...

- Information on the Montessori Philosophy - A Directory of Local Montessori Schools - What To Look For When Choosing A Montessori Program For Your Child - Register For Free E-newsletter and Information - Events Calendar

www.cincinnatimontessorisociety.org

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM 23

Open House Guide Archbishop McNicholas High School

Phone: 513-247-0900 Email: kimberly.siman@chca-oh.org www.chca-oh.org Open House Date: November 6, 2010 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

6536 Beechmont Avenue, Cincinnati, Oh 45230 Phone: 513-231-3500 www.mcnhs.org Open House Dates: Sunday, Cincinnati Waldorf School November 7, 2010 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Address: 5555 Little Flower Archbishop McNicholas High School promotes a Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45239 Christ-centered, Catholic community. Each student Phone: 541-0220 x103 is embraced spiritually, intellectually, and morally www.cincinnatiwaldorfschool.org in a safe, nurturing, and challenging campus that Open House Dates: November 13, 2010; offers 13 Advanced Placement courses, 25 fine and February 5, 2011; April 9, 2011 10am-1pm performing arts electives, and 23 different sports.

The average class size is 19 and 99% of graduates CPS Magnet School Showcase further their education.

2561 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45219 Phone: 513-363-023 Bethany School www.cps-k12.org 555 Albion Ave., Glendale, OH 45246 Open House Dates: Thursday, Phone: 513-771-7462 October 28, 2010 www.bethanyschool.org Cincinnati Public Schools – Ohio’s highest-rated Open House Dates: Sunday, November urban district – offers many innovative programs, at 7, 2010 from 2:00pm-4:00pm Sunday, no cost to you, that will help your child succeed.

February 13, 2011 from 2:00pm-4:00pm More rigor, expanded foreign language programs and new enrichment opportunities keep learning Cardinal Pacelli challenging and fun. Small class sizes help students 927 Ellison Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45226 get the individualized attention they deserve.

Contact: Alisa Fisher Phone: (513) 321-1048 John XXIII Catholic School Email: fisher_a@cardinalpacelli.org 3806 Manchester Road, www.cardinalpacelli.org Middletown, OH 45042 Open House Dates: Sunday, Contact: Brenda Neu November 7, 10:30 am-1:30 pm Phone: 513-424-1196 Open House Dates: Thursday, February 3rd Cincinnati Country Day School with a snow date of Thursday, February 10th.

6905 Given Road, Cincinnati, OH 45243 Phone: (513) 979-0220 Kennedy Heights Email: admission@countryday.net Montessori Center www.countryday.net 6120 Ridge Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45213 Open House Dates: November 3, 2010 Phone: (513) 631-8135 November 10, 2010 February 16, 2011 kennedyheightsmontessori.org May 11, 2011. Individual appointments Open House Dates: Wed. Feb. 2, 2011 are available M-F, 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Cincinnati Hills Christian Academy 11525 Snider Road, Cincinnati, OH 45249 Contact: Kim Siman

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Kinder Garden School Blue Ash - 10969 Reed Hartman Highway, Blue Ash, OH 45242 Contact: Tami Lanham

Phone: 513-791-4300 Email: tami@kindergardenschool.com West Chester - 5900 West Chester Road, Ste. C, West Chester, OHIO 45069.

Contact: Trudi Simpson Phone: 513-874-3100 Email: trudi@kindergardenschool.com www.kindergardenschool.com Open House Dates: Thursdays in November 4, 11, 18

Montessori Academy of Cincinnati 8293 Duke Blvd., Mason, OH 45040 Phone: 513-398-7773 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

PLEASANT RIDGE PRESBYTERIAN NURSERY SCHOOL 5950 Montgomery Road, Cincinnati, OH 45213 Phone: 513-631-0170 www.prpc.org Open House Date: Sunday, January 24, 2011 at 2pm

Rockwern Academy 8401 Montgomery Road, Cincinnati, OH 45236 Contact: Gail Sperling Phone: 513-984-3770

Email: gasperling@rockwernacademy.org www.rockwernacademy.org Open House Dates: October 26, November 18, November 30, December 15, December 16, and January 19. Open House appointments or personalized tours can be arranged by calling 513-984-3770 ext.3112.

Springer School and Center 2121 Madison Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45208 Phone: 513-871-6080 Email: info@springer-ld.org www.springer-ld.org Open House Date: Wednesday, November 3rd. 9:00am Introduction & Video; 9:30am Student Led Tours

The Summit Country Day School 2161 Grandin Road, Cincinnati (Hyde Park), OH 45208 Phone: 513-871-4700 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

St. Ursula Academy 1339 E. McMillan, Cincinnati, OH 45206 Phone: 513-961-3410 www.saintursula.org Open House Dates: November 7th, 10:30am-1:00pm

H E A LT H & W Elln e ss

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pediatric health

A Pediatrician’s Perspective on Childhood Obesity Making the Most of the 5-2-1-0 Guidelines remain obese as adults. Obesity often leads to serious health concerns, such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea and high cholesterol. All of these factors greatly increase the risk of early-onset heart disease.

drinks like Gatorade, heavily marketed to teenagers, can result in a 20-pound gain in one year. Even worse, a daily 20-ounce Mountain Dew results in 26 pounds of fat gain in a year. On the other hand, water, the ideal drink for thirst, has zero calories and results in no weight gain, no matter Overweight children are at increased risk of liver disease how much is consumed. and orthopedic problems with ankles, hips and knees, not to mention depression and low self-esteem. Indeed, many Based on scientific evidence, the AAP has pediatricians and epidemiologists fear that, due to these formulated the “5-2-1-0 guidelines:” rates of obesity, the average life expectancy for today’s children could actually be lower than that of their parents. daily servings of vegetables and fruits

If you seem to be noticing more overweight children these days, you are not mistaken. Childhood obesity has become an all too common problem over the past 25 years. Rates of obesity among children in the United States have increased by three- to four-fold since the 1960s, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control f igures.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has been working to def ine the factors that contribute to childhood obesity. We know heredity determines the rate at which calories are burned at rest and can account for mild overweight. True obesity comes from a combination of heredity, overeating and lack of exercise. Those with this inherited tendency will gain signif icant weight when they overeat and don’t exercise.

The increasing availability of sedentary activities, such as video games, computers, and cable TV, has clearly played a role in childhood obesity. Sugar-sweetened drinks and the intense marketing which promotes them are another recognized factor. As an example, daily consumption of a 20-ounce bottle of “vitamin water” with 290 calories results The problem is much more than just a concern about in an 11-pound fat gain over the course of a year if exercise external appearances. Obese children are highly likely to doesn’t compensate to burn these calories. Sports electrolyte The latest data shows 34 percent of Ohio’s children are overweight and 18.5 percent are obese. This places Ohio in 12th place among the 50 states in ranking of childhood obesity. Kentucky is rated the seventh most overweight state, Indiana the 17th.

26 CINCINNATI PARENT * NOVEMBER 2010

5 hours or less in sedentary “screen time” 2 (TV, computer and video games) 1 hour of physical exercise consumption of calorie-containing 0 drinks between meals.

Your child’s health and well-being, now and as a springboard into adulthood, are the primary concerns of your pediatrician. He or she will be happy to assist you in measuring your child’s BMI, accessing the “5-2-1-0 guidelines,” and encouraging your child to avoid or reverse the problems of childhood obesity.

Stephen G. Bird, MD, FAAP, is a pediatrician with Group Health Associates. He sees patients in the Finneytown and Mason offices.

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A RO U N D TOW N

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arts & enrcihment

Off the Beaten Path

Teaching Children to Embrace Culture Through Local Programs Behringer-Crawford Museum’s mission is to promote the cultural heritage of the area through displays and programming.

“You cannot teach a man only help him find it within

“It is important to know what influences the development of the region where we anything; you can live and the cultures that settled in this area.

We have a room devoted to the immigrants himself.” –Galileo who settled in this region. Also, this year we are co-sponsoring a presentation at the Kenton County Library Erlanger Branch on Las Posadas, a Mexican Christmas tradition, on December 7 at 7:00 p.m.,” said Regina Siegrist, education director at the BehringerCrawford Museum, History in Motion in Covington, Kentucky.

Siegrist continues, “The regional history of Northern Kentucky as part of the Ohio Valley must be preserved for the benefit of present and future generations. The Behringer-Crawford Museum is a center for the collection, presentation, study and enjoyment of our natural, cultural, visual and performing arts heritage.”

By visiting a museum like Behringer-Crawford, guests will look at their immediate surroundings and see what it takes to live a prolific, civilized life in Ohio with greater appreciation.

The museum features exhibits and programs about Northern Kentucky and surrounding areas.

“You cannot teach a man anything; you can only help him find it within himself.” –Galileo

As human beings, we often seek comfort in an identity, a label or mental picture personif ied. We look to our family, our hobbies and interests to help def ine who we are and where we are going. Discovering the lives of those who’ve walked before us can enrich our lives and help us understand more about ourselves. Discovering other avenues of artist expression allows us to grow as people.

The best thing about appreciating culture and our heritage is that there are no wrong answers to how we interpret what the legacy of those before us means to us. Cincinnati is rich in culture and offers a wide range of opportunities for families and children to broaden their horizons.

The Harriet Beecher Stowe House The Harriet Beecher Stowe House welcomes over 1,000 visitors annually.

“A great deal of our guests come from large tour groups and homeschoolers from around the state,” said Barbara Furr, volunteer coordinator with Friends of the

28 CINCINNATI PARENT * NOVEMBER 2010

Harriet Beecher Stowe House, Inc. “We seem to be popular with families on their way to or from the Underground Railroad Freedom Center and the Creation Museum.”

Now, if you don’t know who Harriet Beecher Stowe is or why it’s important to learn about her, here’s some history.

According to Furr, this was the home of the President of Lane Seminary. The Seminary is an important factor since it is the reason Harriet’s father came to Cincinnati. He was hired as the first President of Lane Seminary. So when people come, they don’t just learn about Harriet in a vacuum, they learn about her father and family and why Cincinnati played such an important role in her stature as an author.

Whether you visit a theatre, local museum or nationally recognized historic home, families can gleen even the slightest aspect of something that is a part of our own history, if not an appreciation for someone else’s.

The BehringerCrawford Museum The Behringer-Crawford Museum is in the historic 19th century Devou family home, set amongst the rolling hills of Covington, Kentucky’s Devou Park. There are panoramic views of the Ohio River, Cincinnati and Covington, as well as nature trails focusing on Northern Kentucky’s natural heritage. The museum is a steward for Civil War sites located in Devou Park and is included on the Civil War Discovery Trail linking more than 500 sites in 28 states.

Clifton Performance Theatre Per for m ing ar ts add elements of entertainment to interpreting local culture, both present and past. Such classic performances as Mary Poppins and the Christmas Carol, set decades ago, create opportunities for families to discuss the differences in today’s world and years gone by.

Performers benefit by being a part of the art of performance as well as those that patronize the arts.

“Involving yourself in the performing arts: singing, acting and dancing help children realize they have, in their possession, a tool of self expression that builds confidence and self-esteem.

It’s an important element of character building regardless of what career path a child will choose,” said Carol Brammer co-owner of Clifton Performance Theatre (CPT), “CPT is a place for every kid, regardless of talent or experience.

In addition to our open-admission policy, our workshops are short. All kids who complete workshops are eligible to become a member of our Children’s Repertory Company (the only all-child cast repertory company in Cincinnati).”

In my visits to museums, I always leave with a great appreciation for the artists and their talents. I leave thankful, though it’s a love-hate relationship, of the advances in technology our culture gets to experience. Even more so, I remind those with me that we are living longer, happier lives because we have learned from the past, taken leaps and bounds in medicine and do not have to experience constant death of loved ones and children as those who lived during the turn of the century. America is truly a melting pot of cultures and history which makes it all the more adventurous for families to embrace one true sense of their history.

Nikki Keever is a freelance writer, wife and mother of three living in Noblesville, Indiana.

Arts & Enrichment Guide

Music

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.

513/421.3888 for information and registration or visit www.cincyplay.com.

Cultural Arts

Evendale Cultural Arts Center 10500 Reading Rd, Evendale, OH 45241 Contact: Susan Gordy Phone: 513-563-1350 evendaleculturalarts@ gmail.com www.evendalearts.org Art, Photography, Film and Video Editing, Pottery, Sculpture, Ballet, Music Lessons and more are available at the Evendale Cultural Arts Center.

Theatre

Cincinnati Playhouse In The Park P.O. Box 6537, Cincinnati, OH 45206-0537 Contact: Mark Lutwak 513-345-2242 Email: mark.lutwak@cincyplay.com http://cincyplay.com EXPRESS YOURSELF! Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park offers acting and drama classes for toddlers, children, teens and adults at multiple locations. Call

CINCINNATIPARENT.COM 29

d l i h e xceptional C

Siblings of children with special needs deserve quality time, too

“It’s hard because I don’t think they’re listening, and I think they just say ‘OK’ to say it and move on.”

Gionna Paulin, 14, of Alabaster is like many teen girls: She likes volleyball, track and field, pop star Nick Jonas and walking her dog, Rocco. However, unlike her peers, she also knows what it means to be “the other one.” Her 4-year-old brother, Joey, has a rare, and terminal, mitochondrial disease, which has left him unable to walk, talk, sit, stand or swallow.

30 CINCINNATI PARENT * NOVEMBER 2010

right to their own life and a right to who wheelchair?’ ” Gionna says. “I just say, ‘That’s my brother.’ ” Much of Gionna’s parents’ they are.” time is spent caring for Joey, and she says she sometimes feels forgotten.

Balancing act However, she says most of the time her So what can parents do to keep these lines friends are supportive, coming over for According to the Sibling Support Project of communication open, to prevent their big birthday bashes, pumpkin-carving in Seattle, Wash., there are more than 6 healthy child from becoming frustrated parties and Christmas caroling gatherings that Roseanna plans as a way to make million Americans with special physical, and shutting the family out?

Gionna feel special. developmental or mental health concerns.

Most of them have typically developing Howard says balancing the needs of both siblings. The organization works to children is important. “If you put too But it’s not always easy. “Sometimes it boost peer support and information for much attention on the child with extra bothers me when friends come over and brothers and sisters of those with special needs, the healthy child will become they go play with Joey, because they’re needs, and to increase awareness of resentful, even to the point of having supposed to be here to see me,” Gionna sibling issues. physical symptoms that mimic those of says. “But I never say anything to them because I’d feel guilty.” the special needs child.”

Don Meyer, director of Sibling Support, says, “These brothers and sisters will Roseanna says one of the best things to do Meyer says it’s a good idea for siblings to be in the lives of family members with is “listen. It sounds simple but when you meet other children on a similar path so special needs longer than almost anyone. have feedings, meds, going to the doctor they don’t feel so isolated. “Our Sibshops If they are provided with support and for illnesses, it’s easy to let the healthy child bring brothers and sisters together in a information, they can help their siblings get lost in the shuffle. They may be self- recreational context and gets them live dignified lives from childhood to sufficient, but they still need attention.” talking about their siblings and their their senior years.” feelings so they know they are not alone.”

She says she tries to do spend time with Gionna on the weekends, when dad Keeping it in perspective Learning to speak up Gionna’s mom, Roseanna Paulin, says, “I Larry or Roseanna’s parents can care for For Gionna, the hardest part is that have missed school functions, play dates Joey. “We might get our nails done or we Joey is not like a typical kid she can and just one-on-one time with Gionna just go for a walk. When I have time with play with, she says. Many of her friends because of the constant care Joey requires.” her, I try to make the most of it.” have brothers Joey’s age who are now in school, and that makes it especially She says that lack of time has sometimes Howard offers some other tips. “Set aside time tough, her mom says. caused Gionna to become frustrated and each day or at least each week for the healthy say things like, “In this family you have child. Even 10 minutes a day will work; it’s “We just remind her that Joey was to be sick to get attention.” not so much about quantity as quality. put here for a reason and we just have to consider ourselves blessed that God Debbie Howard, R.N., and coordinator “Many of the kids we see say, ‘I wish Mommy chose us to care for him,” Roseanna says. of Children’s Hospital’s hematology and or Daddy would color a picture with me.’ It’s oncology clinic, says those feelings are the simple things you forget when you’re so Gionna adds, “I have a new perspective normal. “We encourage siblings of kids into caring for a special needs child.” on people and how to focus on the (in our unit) to just tell their parents that person. I appreciate my family more they need more time from them,” she says. Sibling Support’s Meyer says parents need and take things for granted less.”

“It’s OK to say you need special time. We to educate themselves about siblings’ want to prevent the kids from acting out by issues. “Brothers and sisters share many And that makes it much easier to enjoy making sure they can express openly when of the concerns that parents of children the time she has with her little brother. they feel left out.” with special needs experience, including Tiffani Hill-Patterson writes about isolation, a need for information, guilt, parenting, health and fitness. She blogs Gion n a , who concerns about the future and care- about her family’s experience with deafness and cochlear implants at soundcheckmama. d resses, feed s giving demands,” he says. blogspot.com. Contact her at patterson1723@ and gets Joey’s mac.com or at www.tiffanihillpatterson.com. medications ready “Brothers and sisters also face issues ever y morning, that are uniquely theirs, including says she has learned resentment, peer issues, embarrassment, Resources to speak up more and pressure to achieve.” often. “I just keep On the Web: telling my parents ‘That’s my brother’ The Sibling Support Project what I need. I tell Like Meyer mentioned, siblings of those www.siblingsupport.org them when I need with special needs can sometimes feel a break, and they resentment or embarrassment about Books: will let me go to their situation. Relationships with How to Talk So Your a friend’s house or schoolmates can sometimes be difficult, Kids Will Listen and go have time to and many teens vacillate from being Listen So Your Kids Will myself.” uncomfortable to being protective when Talk, by Adele Faber, their siblings are around. available at amazon.com.

Meyer says the bottom line is, “I get embarrassed sometimes when “Siblings have a kids at school say, ‘Who’s the kid in the

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Monday 1

Let’s Make a Movie Explore the many aspects of making a movie including conception, storyboarding, performing, costume, prop and scene designing and filming.

Ages: 7-15, Pre-registration required. $10 refundable deposit. Eva G. Farris Education Center, at The Carnegie Visual and Performing Arts Center. 028 Scott Boulevard, Covington KY. www.thecarnegie.com. (859) 4912030.

Cupcake Kids Finger Lickin’ Fun!

public; J Member advantage: $45; public: $60; Price.

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

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. Free. Essex Studios.

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

Wednesday 3

Designed to accommodate our littlest chefs, each u p - t o -you r - e l b ow s in-fun cooking class is designed to familiarize children with diverse foods, provide an opportunity to learn about where food comes from (besides the supermarket!), and to show that healthy eating can be fun and tasty! $70/7-class package or $13/class. Cincinnati Family Enrichment Center. 4244 Hamilton Ave., Cincinnati OH. www.theplaceforfamilies. com. (513)591-CFEC.

Drs. Alan Weber and Kinneth Morris, of Northeast Orthodontic Specialists, will be an official site for the Smiles Change Lives National Candy Exchange. This FREE event is to encourage kids of the community to think about healthier alternatives to candy and become more aware of the importance of oral health and oral hygiene. FREE. Northeast Orthodontic Specialists. 3284 Montgomery Rd., Loveland OH. www.smileschangelives.org/ candyexchange. 888-900-3445.

“Wicked” Vocal Workshop

FAMILY CLAY CLASS

Clifton Performance Theatre offers unique workshops for children and young-adults ages 5-16. In four weeks, students learn, rehearse and perform a full-length musical. This handson learning of all aspects of musical theatre will give each student an opportunity to sing/ dance/act as well as participate in costume and set design. Clifton Performance Theatre.

404 Ludlow Avenue, Cincinnati OH. www. cliftonperformancetheatre.com.

513-861SHOW.

Experience the whole ceramic process! In the 1st class, you’ll make some really cool pieces that will be fired in the kiln. Then, in week 2, you’ll paint them using mega-fun painting techniques.

No need to be an artist. Designed for parents and children to participate together. Ages 5+. $15 per adult. $25 for each Miami Township resident child. $30 for each non-resident child. All supplies provided. Call 513-474-6364 or e-mail ann@starglazers.com to register. All pieces are returned to the class location 2 weeks after they’re completed. 6-8:00PM. Miami Township Civic Center. 6101 Meijer Drive, Milford, OH. starglazers.whatthefin.com. 513-474-6364.

Tuesday 2

Smiles Change Lives Candy Exchange

Cincinnati Cyclones Hockey vs. Elmira. $13-$25.50. US Bank Arena. 100 Broadway, Cincinnati OH. www.usbankarena. com. 800-745-3000.

Puppet-Making Family Workshop at the JCC For ages 6-15 & a parent/guardian. Learn to make some wild puppets! Create animal sock puppets like a dragon with big teeth. Make a rod puppet from a wooden spoon, gadget puppets from kitchen utensils, and a simple string puppet. Open to the 32 CINCINNATI PARENT * NOVEMBER 2010

Cincinnati Nature Center Herpetology Program Learn more about reptiles and amphibians with the Greater Cincinnati Herpetological Society. Monthly programs are held the first Wednesday of each month in the auditorium at 7 p.m.. members free; nonmembers pay daily admission. Cincinnati Nature Center.

4949 Tealtown Road, Milford OH. www. cincynature.org/. 513-831-1711.

Baby Play Group Come join our baby play group Lots of developmentally appropriate toys for babies of all ages. Parent or guardian must stay with their child. FREE. Rockwern Academy Room 208.

8401 Montgomery Road, Cincinnati OH. www. rockwernacademy.org. 513-984-3770.

Thursday 4

Imagine...then do it Cincinnati’s Premier Women’s Event. “I imagined” are powerful words that begin the stories of countless extraordinary women who are realizing their visions and dreams. And you can be one of them. Join us for a fun and motivating morning; and be inspired by the stories of how our remarkable speakers turned “I imagined” into personal triumph. $35.

Mayerson JCC. 8485 Ridge Road, Cincinnati OH. www.imaginethendoit.com. 513-5633505.

Disney LIVE: Mickey’s Magic Show

Cincinnati. $40. Young Chefs Academy.

6649 Western Row Rd, Mason OH. www. youngchefsacademy.com/cincinnati. 513549-CHEF (2433).

Kidz Nite - Be Thankful!

Celebrate Thanksgiving with a great pottery piece ready in time for Thanksgiving Day. A fun night just for your little artists! Drop off your 6- 12 yr old for pizza, games, crafts, and Pottery Painting! Reservations requested. Sign up today. $25 per child/ $20 addl. Sibling. The Mad Potter. 7754 Camargo Rd., Madeira OH. www.mymadpotter.com/Madeira/. 513561-1888.

Wiggle Worm Dance and stomp, clap and tap - creative movements where it’s at! Join us as we explore movement utilizing yoga, games, songs and different music styles from around the world through creative movement, dance, and simple musical instruments. The use of silly props and the acting-out-of-stories will spark your child’s imagination, encourage self-expression, and enhance their self-esteem. Come prepared to ‘shake those sillies out’! Starts at 9:45am. $70/7class package or $13/class. Cincinnati Family Enrichment Center. 4244 Hamilton Ave., Cincinnati OH. www.theplaceforfamilies. com. (513)591-CFEC.

Saturday 6

4th Annual Craft Show

Master Magician Mickey Mouse joins forces with Donald Duck, Goofy, Alice in Wonderland, Disney princess Jasmine and others. Doors open an hour before show. Shows start at 3pm and 6:30pm. $22, $17. U.S. Bank Arena. 100 Broadway, Cincinnati OH. www. usbankarena.com/. 800-745-3000.

The Lunch Box Enjoy playing with your food. Using papiermâché techniques create the coolest lunch box complete with a healthy lunch inside. $10 refundable deposit. Eva G. Farris Education Center, at The Carnegie Visual and Performing Arts Center. 028 Scott Boulevard, Covington KY. www.thecarnegie.com. (859) 491-2030.

Friday 5

Family Favorites!

Learn to make some Thanksgiving favorites!

We will make some awesome recipes with a Thanksgiving theme! AGES:5-18.

Registration and reservation required. JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: Young Chefs Academy

Local crafters will be in the Rowe Visitor Center auditorium to showcase natural materials and nature-themed works all day. It’s a great time to buy holiday gifts and support our local artists!.

10 a.m.- 5 p.m. Members free; nonmembers pay daily admission. Cincinnati Nature Center/ Rowe Woods. 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford OH. www.CincyNature.org. 513-831-1711.

FALL GATHERING Come and join us for a weekend full of festivities. Browse through our many wares, watch the blacksmith at work, and enjoy many other activities. There is sure to be plenty for all to enjoy. Saturday 10AM-5PM, Sunday 10AM-4PM. $7, $3 children; free ages 2 and under. Caesar’s Creek Pioneer Village. 3999 Pioneer Village Road, Waynesville, OH. www. caesarscreekpioneervillage.com. 513-8971120.

CSO Presents: Peter & the Wolf (with the Cincinnati Ballet) A bird, a cat, a duck and a boy come face to face with the big, bad wolf. Grandfather will not be amused! Join the CSO and the Cincinnati Ballet for Prokofiev’s fun and fabled musical tale.

Be sure to come early to the Kid’s Zone in the Music Hall Ballroom before the concert where members of the Cincinnati Ballet will get you CINCINNATIPARENT.COM 32

moving. Ticket prices vary - see website for details.

Music Hall. 1241 Elm St, Cincinnati OH. www. cincinnatisymphony.org. 513-381-3300.

First Family Saturday Celebrate fashion and wearable art with the help of Madcap Puppets, Happen Inc. and local fiber artist Elizabeth Smith. Don’t miss the trendy scavenger hunt and stylish art activities! Free, no reservations required.. Parking $4.00; Art Museum members park free. Cincinnati Art Museum. 953 Eden Park Drive, Cincinnati OH. www.cincinnatiartmuseum.org. (513) 6392984.

items and offers from area businesses, Seconds Table, Bowl Decorating Table, Throwing and hand-building demonstrations. $5.00 to hand paint a bowl!. The Verdin Bell Event Centre.

444 Reading Road, Cincinnati OH. www. clayalliance.org/empty_bowls.html. (513) 852-2787.

Global Day of Jewish Learning at the JCC All ages are welcome to share in a day of Jewish learning, dialogue and exploration. Free & open to the public. Mayerson JCC. 8485 Ridge Rd., Cincinnati OH. www.JointheJ.org.

513.761.7500.

Autumn Air Art Fair

Trail Mix

Features 40 juried artists exhibiting work including ceramics, fiber, glass, jewelry, painting, paper, photography, wood and mixed media. Includes silent auction to benefit Autumn Air Scholarship Fund. 11:00 AM. Clifton Cultural Arts Center.

3711 Clifton Ave., Cincinnati, OH. www. cliftonculturalarts.org. 513-497-2860.

Sample local craft drinks and savory Granola 4 the People, listen to live tunes and meet cool people at Trail Mix, a monthly gathering that connects single granola-minded folk and their wing buddies. Definitions vary, but we’re talking about peace-loving types who’d rather drink water out of a Mason jar than a plastic bottle.

Naturalist and author Tamara York will be on hand to sign her book, 60 Hikes Within 60 Miles: Cincinnati. Tarot card readings with Kimberley Caplinger McAninch.

Park + Vine. 1109 Vine Street, Cincinnati OH. www.parkandvine. com. 513-721-7275.

Kids First Sports Fair...

Don’t Sit Be Fit SAMPLE CLASSES of all Kids First’s unbeatably awesome programs for kids! Gymnastics, Swimming, Karate, Dance, Trampoline &Tumbling, Cheerleading, Soccer, Basketball, Volleyball.

Adult Dance & Karate classes. Learn about our Camps, Preschool Workshops and Birthday Parties. All under one roof! $10 donation per family.

All net proceeds to the Children’s Miracle Network. 2:00 PM -5:00PM at Kids First Sports Center, 7900 E. Kemper Rd. w w w.k id s f i r st spor t s. com (513) 489-7575.

Novemberfest - Indoor Fall Festival All the activities of an outdoor festival - INSIDE Giant inflatables, program demonstrations, skill games, music, food, entertainment, interactive activities with local businesses, community mascot appearances and more. FREE. FREE. Cincinnati Sports Club. 3950 Red Bank Road, Cincinnati OH. www.cincinnatisportsclub. com. 513-527-4000.

The Emperor’s New Clothes Hans Christian Andersen’s timeless fable is brought to hilarious life in this adaptation by Kathryn Schultz Miller. When it comes to fashion this emperor knows it all, or so he thinks. A clever trickster tailors a magical wardrobe that shows off the emperor’s foolishness. A hilarious romp that includes several fun magic tricks, juggling and audience participation. Ideal for Grades K-5. $7.00 for Adults and $5.00 for Children.

The Covedale Center for the Performing Arts.

4990 Glenway Ave., Cincinnati OH. www. covedalecenter.com. 513.241.6550.

SUnday 7

TriState Foster Care & Adoption Fair A tri-state cooperative to be held at the Syndicate in Newport. Newport Syndicate. 18 East 5th St, Newport KY. FosterCareCooperative.com.

859-331-2040.

FALL GATHERING Come and join us for a weekend full of festivities. Browse through our many wares, watch the blacksmith at work, and enjoy many other activities. There is sure to be plenty for all to enjoy. Saturday 10AM5PM, Sunday 10AM-4PM. $7, $3 children; free ages 2 and under. Caesar’s Creek Pioneer Village. 3999 Pioneer Village Road, Waynesville, OH. www.caesarscreekpioneervillage.com.

513-897-1120.

Monday 8

Cincinnati Bengals VS Pittsburgh Steelers Come to Paul Brown Stadium and Cheer on the Cincinnati Bengals as they taken on the Steelers!.

8:30PM. Varies Per Ticket. Paul Brown Stadium.

1 Paul Brown Stadium, Cincinnati OH. www. bengals.com. 513-621-TDTD.

Baby’s Amazing Journey Babies have approximately 200 billion brain cells at birth - twice the number of stars in our galaxy! This eye-opening workshop helps parents navigate the challenging waters of infancy by offering effective strategies for dealing with typical eating, sleeping, & fussiness issues, as well as sharing insightful tips that will guide you through expected developmental milestones, assisting you in helping your child reach their fullest potential. $35/parenting team.

Bethesda North Hospital. 10500 Montgomery Rd, Cincinnati OH. www.signingsafari.com.

(513)475-4500.

Empty Bowls Project

Ballet Basics

Potters from the Clay Alliance create and donate handmade ceramic bowls. You purchase tickets, show up at your scheduled seating, choose your favorite bowl (from 100’s of bowls!), decide on which soup you’re in the mood for - so hard to choose! Then, top it off with some good bread, a drink and dessert. Benefits Freestore Foodbank.

Live entertainment, Great deals on handcrafted

Children and young adults ages 4-12. Introducing ballet terminology and figures at barre and on floor. Proper ballet attire required (ballet slippers, tights and leotards). Only $84 for a 7-week session!. Clifton Performance Theatre.

404 Ludlow Avenue, Cincinnati OH. www. cliftonperformancetheatre.com.

513-861SHOW.

Tuesday 9

“Authors Out Loud” speaker series at the JCC: Diane Falanga, “P.S. I Hate It Here: Letters from Camp” A compilation of 150 hilarious letters written by kids at summer camp - captures a childhood experience shared by millions. There real letters written by children ages 8- 16 are laugh-outloud funny and will have you reminiscing about your own camp days. In partnership with Camp Livingston. Free & open to the public. Mayerson JCC. 8485 Ridge Rd., Cincinnati OH. www.

JointheJ.org. 513.761.7500.

Puppet-Making Family Workshop at the JCC For ages 6-15 & a parent/guardian. Learn to make some wild puppets! Create animal sock puppets like a dragon with big teeth. Make a rod puppet from a wooden spoon, gadget puppets from kitchen utensils, and a simple string puppet. Instructor: Judy Workman, artist and art educator. Open to the public; J Member advantage: $45; public: $60; Price.

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

Half Pint Kids Club - Let’s Learn about Apples!

Half Pints age 3-8 are invited with a caregiver to explore and try new foods in a fun environment. Join us in the café for this fun food treat. Today we’ll learn why apples are so darn good for you while making an apple pie dip! 10AM. Whole Foods. 5805 Deerfield Blvd, Mason, OH. www.wholefoodsmarket. com/mason. (513) 398-9358.

Wednesday 10

Cincinnati Bengals VS Cincinnati Cyclones Hockey vs. Toledo. $13-$25.50. US Bank Arena.

100 Broadway, Cincinnati OH. www. usbankarena.com. 800-745-3000.

6-8:00PM. Miami Township Civic Center.

6101 Meijer Drive, Milford, OH. starglazers. whatthefin.com. 513-474-6364.

Harper Art Show Fabulous Frames & Art and Nature’s Niche Gifts & Books present the art of the Harper Family from November 10-14. The exhibition and sale will take place in the beautifully decorated Ellenwood Nature Barn. Charley Harper’s white-breasted nuthatch is featured on the new, collectible brass adornment and glass ornament. Charle’ys designs can be found in 2011 calendars, boxed holiday and everyday note cards, jigsaw puzzles, shirts, jewelry, books, mugs and a number of other collectible items. Farbach-Werner Nature Preserve/ Ellenwood Nature Barn. 3455 Poole Road, Colerain Township OH. www.greatparks. org. (513) 521-7275.

Thurday 11

Thursday Art Play: Hometown Pride Stay Up Cincinnati shows how Powell Crosley changed the world through radio. Come to the CAC’s UnMuseum and use your own voice to tell a Cincinnati story. *Please note the updated fall Thursday Art Play time. 10:30-11:30am.

Free with CAC Admission. Contemporary Arts Center. 44 E Sixth Street, Cincinnati Oh. www.contemporaryartscenter. o r g / U n M u s e u m / T h u r s d a yA r t P l a y.

513.345.8400.

Head & Shoulder, Knees & Toes Creative play and sensory activities abound in this one-of-kind class for pre-crawlers.

Our infant behavioral specialist will share specific techniques to promote your baby’s awareness and thinking skills, as well as activities to enhance sensory development and promote the brain-body connection, all through “play”!. $60/6 class package or $13/ class. Cincinnati Family Enrichment Center.

4244 Hamilton Ave., Cincinnati OH. www. theplaceforfamilies.com. (513)591-CFEC.

Friday 12

FAMILY CLAY CLASS

Future Rock Stars Music Class at Children’s Museum

Experience the whole ceramic process! In the 1st class, you’ll make some really cool pieces that will be fired in the kiln. Then, in week 2, you’ll paint them using mega-fun painting techniques. No need to be an artist. Designed for parents and children to participate together.

Ages 5+. $15 per adult. $25 for each Miami Township resident child. $30 for each nonresident child. All supplies provided. Call 513-474-6364 or e-mail ann@starglazers. com to register. All pieces are returned to the class location 2 weeks after they’re completed.

Interactive high-energy introduction to music & voice lessons for preschoolers through playing, singing, and dancing to rock-nroll, jazz, traditional nursery rhymes, and more. Introducing piano, guitar, percussion instruments, and vocal exercises in a rockin’ fun way for boys, girls, Moms, and Dads!.

Sprouts Institute workshops are $5 per child, per session for me. Duke Energy Children’s Museum. 1301 Western Avenue, Cincinnati OH. www.cincymuseum.org. (513) 2877021.

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Ladies’ Night Thanksgiving Bounty!

Our Ladies Night is the perfect Girlfriends Getaway! We supply appetizers and you can BYOB! Sorry, no kiddies- this night is just for the ladies. Create a beautiful serving tray or bowl for your Thanksgiving dinner. $4 studio fees. The Mad Potter. 7754 Camargo Rd., Madeira OH. www.mymadpotter.com/Madeira/.

513561-1888.

Veterans Day School Break Camp at the J Grades K-6 (open to the public). When school is out, the JCC is in! Splash in the waterpark, play games in the gym, create great art projects, and have fun and exercise in the Exertainment Game Room. Optional before & after camp programs are available; before care: 8-9:30am; after care: 3:30-6pm. J Member Advantage: $48; Public: $62; Add $6 for before care and. Mayerson JCC. 8485 Ridge Rd., Cincinnati OH. www.

JointheJ.org. 513.761.7500.

Vienna Boys Choir The world’s greatest boy choir returns to Music Hall! The famed Vienna Boys Choir continue to delight music-lovers of all ages across the globe with their purity of tone, distinctive charm and a diverse, crowd pleasing repertoire that encompasses Austrian folk songs and waltzes, classical masterpieces, beloved pop songs, holiday favorites and medieval chant. $25 and Up. Cincinnati Music Hall. 1241 Elm Street, Cincinnati OH. www.cincinnatiARTS.org.

513-621-ARTS.

Seasons in Wonderland Discover the ever-changing seasons of an imaginary wonderland in a large, collaborative

34 CINCINNATI PARENT * NOVEMBER 2010

mural. Explore painting, sketching and collage.

Ages 7-15, Pre-Registration required. $10 refundable deposit. Eva G. Farris Education Center, at The Carnegie Visual and Performing Arts Center. 028 Scott Boulevard, Covington KY. www.thecarnegie.com. (859) 491-2030.

Saturday 13

moderate. Distance is approximately five miles.

Pack a lunch and water bottle to stop for lunch midway. Ages 12 and up. No dogs please. Park in the Creekside Parking Lot and meet at the Creekside Barn. Preregistration is required. 10 a.m.- 1 p.m. Members free; nonmembers $5.

Cincinnati Nature Center/ Long Branch Farm and Trails. 6926 Gaynor Road, Goshen OH. www.CincyNature.org. 513-831-1711.

Cincinnati Cyclones Hockey vs. Gwinnett. $13-$25.50. US Bank Arena. 100 Broadway, Cincinnati OH. www.usbankarena. com. 800-745-3000.

Tea Party Mystery Train

Perimeter Hike at Long Branch Farm and Trails Come for a hike on the ‘Perimeter Trail’ at Long Branch Farm & Trails with Executive Director Bill Hopple. Start and end at the Creekside Barn, staying on the outer trails. Terrain is

Stretch a line at the Turkey Day Open tournament.

Registration begins one hour prior to the start.

Prizes include boathouse gift certificates and awards courtesy of Bass Pro Shops. See page 6 for details. $40.00 per team. Miami Whitewater Forest/Boathouse. 9001 Mt. Hope Rd, Crosby Township OH. www.greatparks.org. (513) 521-7275.

Thanksgiving on the Ohio Frontier

Linton Music’s Peanut Butter & Jam Sessions: Music for 2 to 6-year-olds and their families It’s a String Thing - The wonderful sounds of the violin, viola and cello will “string you along” as you listen, dance and sing to the music of the string family! Children’s chamber music series for preschoolers and their families.

Interactive, Educational, and Fun! Tickets available at the door or by calling 513.381.6868.

Free Graeter’s cookies at every concert! 10am and 11:30am. $4.00 per person or $12.00 for Flex-Book of 4 tickets good at any PB&J concert. $4.00 per person or $12.00 for FlexBook of 4 tickets good at an. Wyoming Fine Arts Center. 322 Wyoming Avenue, Wyoming OH. www.lintonmusic.org. 513.381.6868.

Turkey Day Open Fishing Tournament

Bring your favorite doll and join the LM&M Railroad and Warren County Museum for a day filled with history, mystery and tea! Take a train ride with American Girl Dolls Felicity & Elizabeth and watch as a mystery unfolds right in front of your very eyes. By the end of the train ride, the mystery will be solved, and one lucky guest will win either a Felicity or an Elizabeth doll! Coupon: $2 Off Each Ride Ticket for 2010 LM&M Rides. Use access code: CP1110. Must present coupon at time of purchase to receive discount. 11am; 1pm; 3pm. Ride Only: Adults $15; Seniors (62+) & Children (5-16): $10; Tod. LM&M Railroad. 127 S. Mechanic St., Lebanon OH. www.lebanonrr.com

Step back in time 200 years to the first day of public thanksgiving on the Ohio frontier. Talk with historical interpreters of the Society of Northwest Longhunters dressed as Shawnee Native Americans, early European settlers and military personnel. The whole family will truly enjoy this journey through time. Special exchanges between Native Americans and settlers will occur at 2 pm, 3 pm, 4 pm and 5 pm. Samples of period fare will be available from 2:30 pm - 5:30 pm.

Shawnee Lookout/Historic Cabin-School Area.

2008 Lawrenceburg Rd, Miami Township OH. www.greatparks.org. (513) 521-7275.

Half Pint Kids Club - Let’s Learn about Pumpkin!

Website: Every Saturday, we will take kids age 5-12 on a fun food adventure while teaching them about good nutrition!

Today we’ll learn why pumpkin is so darn good for

r e so u rc e s you while making a pumpkin dip! 10AM. Whole Foods. 5805 Deerfield Blvd, Mason, OH. www. wholefoodsmarket.com/mason. (513) 3989358.

SECOND SATURDAY AT MOUNT WASHINGTON ARTWORKS Join us for an exhibit and free class at our beautiful art studio the Second Saturday of every month.

Make an art project, enjoy refreshments, and view an art class in session. All free. All ages welcome.

11:00 -3:00. Free. Mount Washington ArtWorks.

6450 Sherman, Anderson Township OH. www. cincinnatiartclasses.com. 513 232-3738.

Sunday 14

various parks around the community on Monday mornings. Please RSVP online. Free. Cincinnati Family Enrichment Center. 4244 Hamilton Ave, Cincinnati OH. www.theplaceforfamilies. com. 513-591-2332.

session following presentation. Reservations required

by Nov. 12 to asgc@cinci.rr.com or 513-561-2300.

FREE. Drake Conference Center. 151 W. Galbraith Road, Cincinnati OH. www.autismcincy.org.

513-561-2300.

Tuesday 16

Third Thursday Wine Walk - Holiday Walk

Basketball Turkey Shoot Children ages 5-12 team up with adult family member to compete in basketball competitions to win Thanksgiving dinner. $12. Beech Acres RecPlex. 6915 Beechmont Ave., Cincinnati OH. www.andersonparks.com. 513-388-4515.

Family Pottery Painting

National Adoption Month Workshops....”Answering Questions” In celebration of November as National Adoption Month, three workshops will address common questions regarding adoption by adoptive and prospective adoptive parents and their extended family and friends, as well as those related to attachment in adoption. $15 for one individual $20 for group -Free for Celebrate Adoptio. Celebrate Adoption -Mayerson Jewish Community Center.

8485 Ridge Road, Cincinnati OH. www. celebrateadoptioncincinnati.com.

513373-1324.

Wizard of Oz

Friday 19

Seasons in Wonderland

Come to paint pieces already created. Lots of great pieces to choose from. All ages welcome.

Designed for parents and children to participate together. No need to be an artist. All supplies provided. Prices are by the piece and range from $8 per piece and higher. Cash or check only.

Call 513-474-6364 or e-mail ann@starglazers. com to register. All pieces are returned to the class location 2 weeks after they’re completed.

6-8:00PM. Blue Ash Recreation Center. 4433 Cooper Road, Blue Ash, OH. starglazers. whatthefin.com. 513-474-6364.

Wednesday 17

Learn to become a volunteer Come to Clifton Performance Theatre to see the wizard! The wonderful Wizard of Oz! On Sunday, November 7th and Sunday, November 14th, the children of Clifton Performance Theatre Repertory will be performing the Wizard of Oz.. Tickets are $7 for kids and $10 for adults. Clifton Performance Theatre.

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

Cloth Diapering Cuteness Park + Vine hosts an informal class on all aspects of cloth diapering the first Sunday of each month at 2 p.m. One of our in-house mamas, Elizabeth Whitton, tailors each discussion to the specific questions of present parents. Afterward, browse the best selection of cloth diapers in Cincinnati and take advantage of Park + Vine’s package discounts. Pick up our new Cloth Diapering Guide, designed by the awesome Chris Heckman, while you’re at it!. Park + Vine. 1109 Vine Street, Cincinnati OH. www.parkandvine.com. 513721-7275.

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.

Savory Sizzle Teens Techniques Class AGES 13-18. We are always cookin up fun in our kitchen! You provide the chefs, we provide the rest!. $45.00. Young Chefs Academy. 6649 Western Row Rd, Mason OH. www.youngchefsacademy. com/cincinnati. 513-549-CHEF (2433).

T hursday 18 Art Explorers

Monday 15

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 by 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.

FREE. Diocesan Catholic Children’s Home.

75 Orphanage Rd., Ft. Mitchell KY. www. dcchome.org. 859-331-2040 ext 241.

Autism Society Free Lecture: “Now is the Time for Life Planning”

Stroller Club - Socialize While You Exercise!

A panel of local experts, including Chuck Locy, Mature Strategies, LLC; Dick Dusterberg Esq.; and Stacy Martz, PLAN, will lead a conversation about the importance of life planning at all stages of life. The Fall Autism Lecture Series is FREE to all participants. A light supper is provided. QandA

Free Informational meeting on Foster Care & Adoption

Tired of exercising alone? Can’t even get motivated to exercise at all? Join the CFEC Stroller Club! Whether you’re a walker or a runner we’d be excited to have you join us at

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.

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.

Discover the ever-changing seasons of an imaginary wonderland in a large, collaborative mural. Explore painting, sketching and collage. Ages 7-15, PreRegistration required. $10 refundable deposit. Eva G. Farris Education Center, at The Carnegie Visual and Performing Arts Center. 028 Scott Boulevard, Covington KY. www.thecarnegie.com. (859) 491-2030.

Saturday 20

Get Into the Spin this Hanukkah with a Special Couples Night Out on us!

Join others just like you for this Hanukkah party featuring a high stakes night of dreidel, drinks and a traditional Hanukkah dinner, including a Potato Pancake Bar with brisket and all the trimmings.

You might win a prize in our dreidel tournament where you’ll face off against other guests in this ancient game of chance. Open to the first 50 couples to RSVP...but hurry, space is limited!. Art of Entertaining. 2019 Madison Rd, Cincinnati OH. www.fusionnati.org.

Gingerbread Shoppe The Gingerbread Shoppe is a fun crafter’s fair featuring over 80 crafters, a gourmet luncheon, and kids craft table. Come enjoy a free cup of wassail (spiced cider) as you browse the booths!. 9:30am3:30pm. $1 donation requested. College Hill Presbyterian Church. 5742 Hamilton Ave, Cincinnati OH. www.3csonshine.org. 5138538489.

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bengals.com. 513-621-TDTD.

St. Boniface Thanksgiving Festival Food, booths, games, rides, raffles and entertainment.

Turkey and roast beef dinner available. St. Boniface School. 4305 Pitts Ave., Cincinnati OH. www. stbonifaceschool.net. 513-541-1563.

Superhero Hanukkah!

CALLING ALL SUPERHEROES FOR AN AFTERNOON OF ACTION AND ADVENTURE! Come in costume or create your own with supplies available to purchase at the event ($3/cape or 2/$5). For families with children 10 and younger. Older siblings and grandparents welcome!.

FREE with Advance reservations. Performance Lexus (Mason). 4328 Kings Water Drive, Mason OH. www.myshalomfamily.org. 513-407-8992.

Family ARTventures Take a docent-led interactive tour with fun facts and hands-on activities for the whole family. Saturday Themes change from week to week and feature titles such as Art Safari, Museum Pick-a-Mix, Color Me Contemporary, Shapely Art, and Crazy about Color.

These weekend tours feature touchable objects and ARTSHOPS. $0. Cincinnati Art Museum.

953 Eden Park Drive, Cincinnati OH. www/ cincinnatiartmuseum.org. 513-721-2787.

Sunday Fun Day with All the Fixings!

Get ready for Thanksgiving at the Museum! Join acclaimed musician Russ Childers and storyteller Barb Childers for songs and stories, look for images of celebration in the Taft collection, and make a special holiday craft. 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM. FREE. Taft Museum of Art. 316 Pike Street Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH. www.taftmuseum.org/. (513) 684-4524.

Monday 22

Let’s Make a Movie Explore the many aspects of making a movie including conception, storyboarding, performing, costume, prop and scene designing and filming.

Ages: 7-15, Pre-registration required. $10 refundable deposit. Eva G. Farris Education Center, at The Carnegie Visual and Performing Arts Center.

028 Scott Boulevard, Covington KY. www. thecarnegie.com. (859) 491-2030.

Ballet Basics

Peter and the Wolf & The Frog Prince! at ARTrageous Saturdays The Frisch Marionette Company’s beautiful, hand-crafted puppets act out Sergei Prokofiev’s tale of Peter and the Wolf, and classic fairy tale The Frog Prince, set to the lively music of Dmitri Kabalevsky. $5. Muntz Theatre. 9555 Plainfield Rd., Blue Ash, OH. www.rwc.uc.edu/ alumni/artcultural/artrageous.html. 513745-5705.

Kids Club Krafts Children learn basic elements of art, design and style.

Ages 4-12. New projects monthly. $10. Scrap-Ink. 5515 Bridgetown Road, Cincinnati OH. www. scrap-ink.com. 513-389-0826.

Sunday 21

Cincinnati Bengals VS Buffalo Bills Come to Paul Brown Stadium and Cheer on the Cincinnati Bengals as they taken on the Bills!.

1:00PM. Varies Per Ticket. Paul Brown Stadium.

1 Paul Brown Stadium, Cincinnati OH. www.

Children and young adults ages 4-12. Introducing ballet terminology and figures at barre and on floor. Proper ballet attire required (ballet slippers, tights and leotards). Only $84 for a 7-week session!. Clifton Performance Theatre.

404 Ludlow Avenue, Cincinnati OH. www. cliftonperformancetheatre.com.

513-861SHOW.

“WICKED” VOCAL WORKSHOP Clifton Performance Theatre offers unique workshops for children and young-adults ages 5-16.

In four weeks, students learn, rehearse and perform a full-length musical. This hands-on learning of all aspects of musical theatre will give each student an CINCINNATIPARENT.COM 35

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opportunity to sing/dance/act as well as participate in costume and set design.. Clifton Performance Theatre. 404 Ludlow Avenue, Cincinnati OH. www.cliftonperformancetheatre.com.

513861-SHOW.

required. We are always cookin up fun in our kitchen! You provide the chefs, we provide the rest!. $30. Young Chefs Academy.

6649 Western Row Rd, Mason OH. www. youngchefsacademy.com/cincinnati. 513549-CHEF (2433).

Tuesday 23

de la Dance Company’s The Nutcraker...All Jazzed Up

Card Making Workshop at the JCC

T hursday 25

As the ballet opens you’ll be invited to a party in New York City during the 1940’s with dancers swinging and bopping through the Ellington Free meal and celebration hosted by score. In the second act, the stage is transformed a group of partners including Give Back Cincinnati from 10 a.m to 2 p.m. Patrons into a magical Kingdom of sweets and fantasy enjoy meals prepared by some of the city’s in which the full cast of ballet dancers will finest chefs while listening to live local music. enchant the audience with a seasonal tradition.

Entertainment, games, and crafts in KidZone Performances are November 26 at 8PM and for children. FREE. Duke Energy Convention November 27, 2PM and 8PM. $25 orchestra Center. 525 Elm St., Cincinnati OH. www. /$18 /$12 seniors, students (with ID). JarsonKaplan Theatre at The Arnoff Center for the duke-energycenter.com. 513-227-7929.

Arts. 650 Walnut St., Cincinnati OH. 513-6212787.

101st Thanksgiving Day

Fall Feast

Race 10K Walk/Run Ages 16 & older (open to the public). Make thank you cards, birthday cards, and holiday cards! Use brush markers to color stamps, do simple embossing, & make sponge backgrounds. Make cards with unique shapes and add stickers, ribbons & jewels. J Member Advantage: $20; Public: $28; $10 supply fee paid at fir. Mayerson JCC. 8485 Ridge Rd., Cincinnati OH. www.JointheJ.org. 513.761.7500.

Christmas Carol Don’t be a Scrooge this Christmas! Get into the holiday spirit with Clifton Performance theatre’s performance of Christmas Carol!. Tickets are $7 children/$10 adults. Clifton Performance Theatre.

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

It’s time to add one more fun thing to your calendar---the 100+1 Thanksgiving Day 10k. It all adds up to a good healthy life. Your best life. That is why it’s the theme of the 2010 walk and run. Pick up your Race Number, T-shirt and Chip at The Running Spot in O’Bryonville (513-3213006). See you on the starting line. Times: 9:00 AM. Paul Brown Stadium. One Paul Brown Stadium, Cincinnati, OH. thanksgivingdayrace.com.

Friday 26

Baby Adventurers

Baby Adventurers is an eight-week program for children ages 1-2 who attend with an adult caregiver! During each hour-long session, adult and child will share in the wonders of nature Basketball Turkey Shoot while enjoying simple sensory experiences and Children ages 5-12 team up with adult family fun indoor and outdoor play. Children must member to compete in basketball competitions be the designated age for each program within to win Thanksgiving dinner. $12. Beech Acres the program dates. Other arrangements must RecPlex. 6915 Beechmont Ave., Cincinnati OH. be made for unregistered siblings, as they will www.andersonparks.com. 513-388-4515. not be permitted to attend the class. Member discounts on children’s programs require Family Membership level or above, active during date(s) of program. Members $80, nonmembers $100. Cincinnati Nature Center Thanksgiving Break at Rowe Woods. 4949 Tealtown Rd., Milford Camp at the J OH. www.cincynature.org. (513)831-1711.

Grades K-6 (open to the public). When school is out, the JCC is in! Splash in the waterpark, play games in PNC’s Festival of the gym, create great art projects, and have fun and Lights Opening exercise in the Exertainment Game Room. Optional before & after camp programs are available; before Night care: 8-9:30am; after care: 3:30-6pm. J Member Come and enjoy Advantage: $48; Public: $62. Mayerson JCC. 8485 the 28th year Ridge Rd., Cincinnati OH. www.JointheJ.org. of the PNC Festival of Lights, 513.761.7500. the region’s largest Wee Wednesdays and most anticipated Get ready for creepy crawlers, ghosts and goblins! holiday event. This we continue Explore Halloween inspired art in this open-house year program featuring interactive storytelling by specially to “glow green” as we add trained docents. This open house for preschoolers and more color and lights around the his parents is held on the last Wednesday of the month Zoo! Features: Visit with Santa & and offers storytelling and touchable objects. Free, no Reindeer, “Winter Wonders” - Madcap Puppet reservations required, unable to accommodate school Theater Black Light Show, Storytelling with Mrs. groups.. Parking $4.00; Art Museum members park Claus, Holiday Character Meet & Greet, Holiday free. Cincinnati Art Museum. 953 Eden Park Drive, Post Office, Wild Lights Show on Swan Lake, Cincinnati OH. www.cincinnatiartmuseum.org. Gingerbread Village, Nativity Scene & Menorah Display. Through Sunday, January 02, 2011.

(513) 639-2984.

Cincinnati Zoo. 3400 Vine Street, Cincinnati, OH. www.cincinnatizoo.org. (513) 281-4700.

Mommy & Me Time Unlimited bowling, shoe rental and soft drinks. PLUS fresh popcorn and cheese pizza! Cartoons and movies Kindercooks ABC’s and 123’s shown on lane screens. Sign up your child today!. Our weekly Kindercook classes are from 10$15 per child with same day purchase, $10 advance. 11:30am for ages 3-6. Each class involves Stars Lanes on the Levee. 1 Levee Way, Newport KY. learning how to measure,chop,and mix www.starlaneslevee.com. 859-625-7250. with a focus on ABCs and 123s !!! AGES:3-

Wednesday 24

6 COST:$30 Reservation and Registration

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‘Tis the Season A more traditional Planetarium show, ‘Tis The Season explores the diversity of festivities and customs of the season under the stars. Learn the history behind Santa Claus and the Christmas tree, the Hanukkah Menorah, as well as Norse customs, like the Yule log and mistletoe. A perfect event for the entire family. See website for times. Individual tickets $8 in advance $9 at door, family 4-pack $30 i. Drake Planetarium.

2020 Sherman Ave., 4th floor of Norwood High School, Cincinnati OH. drakeplanetarium. org. 513-396-5578.

Final Friday Do you think of galleries as stuffy places where snooty people walk around with their nose up in the air and mutter to each other? That’s not what Final Fridays are all about, and it’s definitely not what it’s like at Enjoy the Arts!

We think of Final Friday as a celebration of art, where you can meet new people, have a bite to eat, and even converse with the artist currently showing in our gallery. Every month (except December and August) we open a new artist’s show with a big party, often with live music.

So stop by, have a bite to eat, grab a map, see some great art, and meet some cool people! See you there!. 6pm to 10 pm. FREE. Main Street. finalfriday.cincinnatiArts.com. 513-2608434.

Laser Holiday Skies This popular program features a mix of everyone’s favorite holiday music, from the classical to the modern, choreographed to colorful laser light. Laser Holiday Skies is a fun experience for everyone and gives new meaning to the term “holiday lights”. See website for times. Individual tickets $8 in advance $9 at door, family 4-pack $30 i. Drake Planetarium. 2020 Sherman Ave., 4th floor of Norwood High School, Cincinnati OH. drakeplanetarium.org. 513-396-5578.

Saturday 27

Shocking Chapeau!

Looking for something creative to do after the Thanksgiving holiday? Join us at the CAC’s UnMuseum anytime between 1-4pm to create your own Rosson Crow inspired hat. 1-4pm.

Free with CAC Admission. Contemporary Arts Center. 44 E Sixth Street, Cincinnati Oh. www.contemporaryartscenter. o r g / U n M u s e u m / F a m i l y S a t u r d a y.

513.345.8400.

Bird Walks Fall migration is underway as summer visitors from the tropics begin to head back south.

Grab your binoculars and dress appropriately for a two-hour walk. Meet your leader in the Rowe Woods parking lot at 8 a.m. Beginners are welcome.. members free; nonmembers pay daily admission. Cincinnati Nature Center.

4949 Tealtown Road, Milford OH. www.

CincyNature.org. 513-831-1711.

Tree of Life - Prenatal Yoga Yoga is an ideal way for pregnant moms (and partners!) to powerfully connect emotionally and physically with their little ones. You’ll increase your flexibility, strength, circulation, balance, and inner peace, allowing Mom to adapt more gracefully to the many physical and emotional changes of pregnancy. Enjoy the unique camaraderie with other women and couples that only parenthood brings!. $10/ Class. Cincinnati Family Enrichment Center.

4244 Hamilton Ave., Cincinnati OH. www. theplaceforfamilies.com. (513)591-CFEC.

‘Tis the Season A more traditional Planetarium show, ‘Tis The Season explores the diversity of festivities and customs of the season under the stars. Learn the history behind Santa Claus and the Christmas tree, the Hanukkah Menorah, as well as Norse customs, like the Yule log and mistletoe. A perfect event for the entire family. See website for times. Individual tickets $8 in advance $9 at door, family 4-pack $30 i. Drake Planetarium.

2020 Sherman Ave., 4th floor of Norwood High School, Cincinnati OH. drakeplanetarium. org. 513-396-5578.

Sunday 28

Laser Holiday Skies This popular program features a mix of everyone’s favorite holiday music, from the classical to the modern, choreographed to colorful laser light. Laser Holiday Skies is a fun experience for everyone and gives new meaning to the term “holiday lights”. See website for times. Individual tickets $8 in advance $9 at door, family 4-pack $30 i. Drake Planetarium. 2020 Sherman Ave., 4th floor of Norwood High School, Cincinnati OH. drakeplanetarium.org. 513-396-5578.

Monday 29

FOR MORE EVENTS, CHECK OUT CINCINNATIPARENT.COM!

Tuesday 30

Drumline LIVE! Show transports African-American marching band tradition from playing field to stage. $40, $32, $25. Procter & Gamble Hall. 650 Walnut Street, Cincinnati OH. www.cincinnatiarts. org. 513-621-2787.

Vocal Performance 2 Workshop Clifton Performance Theatre offers unique workshops for children and young-adults ages 5-16. In four weeks, students learn, rehearse and perform a full-length musical. This handson learning of all aspects of musical theatre will give each student an opportunity to sing/ dance/act as well as participate in costume and set design. 4-4:45pm. Clifton Performance Theatre. 404 Ludlow Avenue, Cincinnati OH. w w w.cliftonper formancetheatre.com.

513-861-SHOW.

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“Honoring Our Past, Inspiring Our Future” Occurring Daily (except Mon) Beginning Saturday, October 16, 2010 Through Sunday, January 16, 2011. This exhibit is dedicated to exploring the founding of healthcare in Northern Kentucky and includes an in-depth look at the St. Elizabeth Healthcare network and its roots in helping the underserved including Confederate prisoners of war, immigrant cultures and those in need. This exhibit also explores the floods, fires, epidemics and other disaters that have tested and shaped our region’s healthcare system. Closed Mondays - Please call for hours.. This exhibit is included in the cost of admission, $7 Adults, $6.

Behringer Crawford Museum. 1600 Montague Road, Covington KY. www.bcmuseum.org.

(859) 491-4003.

Holiday Toy Train Display Occurring Daily (except Mon) Beginning Saturday, November 13, 2010 Through Sunday, January 16, 2011. All Aboard! Enjoy fun for the whole family at BCM’s 19th Annual Holiday Toy Trains. Over 250 feet of track, 6 working Lionel trains and 25 accessories including being able to operate your own train await the young and young at heart at this year’s exhibit. Experience the joy of model railroading up close and in person without the hectic crowds. Check the museum’s website and calendar of event for special holiday hours including the day after Thanksgiving. This exhibit is included in the cost of admission, $7 Adults, $6. Behringer Crawford Museum. 1600 Montague Road, Covington KY. www.bcmuseum.org. (859) 491-4003.

Holiday in Lights Occurring Daily Beginning Friday, November 19, 2010 Through Saturday, January 01, 2011.

Make this season most memorable with a visit to one of the tri-states most popular holiday attractions - Holiday in Lights! Sharon Woods will be transformed into a winter wonderland full of twinkling lights, dancing displays and holiday cheer that families will enjoy from the warmth of the car. Holiday in Lights is a mile of festive light displays that wind through beautiful the trees in Sharon Woods. Sunday-Thursday 6pm9pm, Friday and Saturday 6 pm-10pm. Admission is $12.00 per car. A $2.00 discount coupon can be foun. Sharon Woods. 11450 Lebanon Road, Sharonville OH. HolidayinLights.com. (513) 769-0393.

Christmas at EnterTRAINment Junction Occurring Daily Beginning Saturday, November 20, 2010 Through Sunday, January 02, 2011.

Create a holiday tradition for your family! See the magic of Christmas at the home of the World’s Largest Indoor Train Display.Take a walk through “Christmas Journey” featuring “A Christmas Carol” & “Journey to the North Pole”. This 2 part walk thru presents a hilarious re-telling of the popular Dickens classic and ends with a stroll through a winter wonderland on your way to North Pole where you can can meet Mrs. Claus and Santa himself. The Junction also offers some beautiful winter train displays that are FREE to the public.The Junction is closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas day. EnterTRAINment Junction.

7379 Squire Ct., West Chester OH. www. entertrainmentjunction.com. (513) 8988000.

SANTALAND Occurring Daily Beginning Thursday, November 25, 2010 Through Friday, December 23, 2011.

Visit this magical wonderland inside Sharon Centre, Sunday-Thursday 6 pm-9pm, Friday and Saturday 6pm-10pm Entertainment and activities inside Santaland include: Photos with Santa Claus Dicken’s Carolers Jennifer Ellis, Kids Music Kyle Meadows, Hammered Dulcimer Tisa McGraw, Harpist Ebenezer Scrooge, Interactive Puppet Everett Greene, the Talking Christmas Tree Holiday Train Depot Indoor Play Land Santa’s Confectionaries - Bring your sweet tooth and enjoy your favorite holiday treat!. FREE. Sharon Woods. 11450 Lebanon Road, Sharonville OH. greatparks.org. (513) 521-7275.

Light Up Middletown Occurring Daily Beginning Friday, November 26, 2010 Through Friday, December 31, 2010.

The very affordable(admission by donation of any amount) family tour around the 100 acre park includes the new candy-cane lane entrance,the tunnel of lights, floating sea serpent, huge Santa’s Workshop, penguin village,airplane, hot air balloon and much more -all in animated lights.

Every Friday & Saturday evening Dec 19 from 7-9pm , Santa and Mrs. Claus will greet children in the Santa House. Photos with Santa are available ($10 suggested donation for photo.) On Tuesday, Dec 8, the annual hot air balloon glow takes place.

Ten hot air balloons will inflate and “glow” as giant holiday ornaments. Light Up Middletown -Smith Park. 500 Tytus Avenue, Middletown OH. www.middletownusa.com. 513-423-1877.

Legends of Flight

Occurring Daily 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.. 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 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. $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.

Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park’s “YOU CAN’T TAKE IT WITH YOU” Ongoing from November 1, 2010 to November 13, 2010. When the rich, straight-laced parents of

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Tony Kirby encounter the delightfully eccentric family of his fiancé, Alice Sycamore, the result is a wildly funny clash of family values in which fireworks erupt - literally! YOU CAN’T TAKE IT WITH YOU is a light-hearted romp about love, family and what’s really important in life.

Pricing and times vary. Call or visit website for details. Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park. 962 Mt. Adams Circle, Cincinnati OH. www.cincyplay. com. 513-421-3888.

reception and learn more about their work at www.MasterworksForNature.org.. 9 a.m.5 p.m. Members fre; nonmembers pay daily admission. Cincinnati Nature Center/ Rowe Woods. 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford OH. www.

CincyNature.org. 513-831-1711.

Omnimax Theatre: HUBBLE Ongoing starting November 1, 2010. For 20 years, the Hubble Space Telescope has dazzled us with unprecedented views of the cosmos- from the splendor of our celestial neighborhood to galaxies billions of light years away. Recounting the amazing journey of the most important scientific instrument since Galileo’s original telescope, Hubble will immerse moviegoers in the great wonders and astounding beauty of our universe. Narrated by Leonardo Di Caprio, Hubble is a gripping story full of hope, crushing disappointment, dazzling ingenuity, bravery, and triumph! See website for hours. $7.50 Adult, $6.50 Senior, $5.50 Child (3-12). Cincinnati Museum Center. 1301 Western Avenue, Cincinnati OH. www.cincymuseum.org. (513) 287-7000.

Occurring Daily Beginning Saturday, November 20, 2010 Through Sunday, January 02, 2011.

Bring your family to enjoy the holidays at Krohn.

Hundreds of poinsettias and a train display make this show a holiday favorite. Krohn Conservatory.

1501 Eden Park Drive, Cincinnati OH. www. cincyparks.com/krohn-conservatory/. (513) 421.5707.

North Pole Express Occurring Every Sun & Sat Beginning Saturday, November 27, 2010 Through Sunday, December 19, 2010. Take a ride on our vintage train to visit Santa and Mrs. Claus! Bring kids, grandparents, or a friend, but don’t forget your camera because this event is filled with fun! Coupon: $2 Off Each Ride Ticket for 2010 LM&M Rides. Use access code: CP1210. Must present coupon at time of purchase to receive discount. Not valid on Day Out With Thomas or DARE rides. May not be used with any other discount or offer. Exp: 12/19/2010. 10am; 12:15pm; 2:30pm; 4:45pm.

Adults: $20.50; Senior (62+) & Children (516): $15.50; Toddlers. LM&M Railroad. 127 S. Mechanic St., Lebanon OH. www.LebanonRR. com. 513-933-8022.

Holiday Floral Show: Home for the Holidays

Come

Ride the Ducks Newport Occurring Daily Beginning Monday, November 01, 2010 Through Friday, November 19, 2010.

A 60-minute amphibious sightseeing tour of Newport, Covington and Cincinnati waterfronts.

All ages. $15, $11 children. Ride the Ducks Newport. 1 Levee Way, Newport KY. www. newportducks.com. (859)815-1439.

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Next Birthday, have a

Music Pups® Party!

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

West Chester Academy of Music www.wcaom.com

829-2345

Fun! Ages 1 to 5!

PNC’s Festival of Lights Occurring Daily Beginning Friday, November 26, 2010 Through Sunday, January 02, 2011. Come and enjoy the 28th year of the PNC Festival of Lights, the region’s largest and most anticipated holiday event. This year we continue to “glow green” as we add more color and lights around the Zoo! Features:Visit with Santa & his Reindeer, “Winter Wonders” - Madcap Puppet Theater Black Light Show, Storytelling with Mrs. Claus, Holiday Character Meet & Greet, Holiday Post Office,Wild Lights Show on Swan Lake, Gingerbread Village, Nativity Scene & Menorah Display. Cincinnati Zoo. 3400 Vine Street, Cincinnati, OH. www. cincinnatizoo.org. (513) 281-4700.

Earthly Treasures: Masterworks for Nature Art Show Occurring Daily Beginning Saturday, November 20, 2010 Through Sunday, November 28, 2010.

Opening Reception: Sunday, Nov. 21 2-4:30 p.m. Twelve regional artists, some of national and international acclaim, comprise Masterworks for Nature. The exhibit, featuring artwork depicting nature’s bounty and beauty, includes original oil, acrylic and watercolor paintings and woodcarving and bronze sculptures. Prints will also be available. Meet the artists at the opening CINCINNATIPARENT.COM 37

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Day!

13

Mom & Dad 's Day

Celebration Idea: Kids - celebrate your parents today! Help around the house. Make them a card. Tell them just how great they are!

19

20

On this day in 1863,

Abraham Lincoln delivered the Gettysburg Address.

Name Your Computer Day

BLAC K 26 F RI D A Y

Happy Shopping!

DID YOU KNOW???

Black Friday is also "Buy Nothing" Day. So, go ahead and skip the mall - it's a holiday!

30

ay

S t a y At H o m e Be c aus e You ’re Well Day

LIKE this calendar?

Let us know! E-mail editor@cincinnatiparent.com with your suggestions and comments!

(Not recomm eneded for school kid s!!!)

38 CINCINNATI PARENT * NOVEMBER 2010

6

B a sk et ba l l Day

Donut Day!

18

Celebration Idea: Today's a great day to clean out things you don't need!

Get ready for a garage sale this spring or donate items to a local shelter.

Button D ay

Celebration Idea: Learn how to say and or write "Hello" in a new language.

28

17

Homem a de Brea d Da y

Eat A ry Cranber Day

11

Saturday

Celebration Idea: Make origami! There are several sites online if you need help or ideas!

16

23

Use Your mo n m o C e Sens Day

Friday

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

onal g Na t iLi ste n i n Da y of

21

4

Origami Day

Don't forget to FALL BACK!

Lo o se n Unp, Pack Your Mom or Dad Lunch Day Light e Up Day

Thursday

27

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K12.com YOU CAN STILL ENROLL FOR THE 2010–2011 SCHOOL YEAR! School has started, but we’re still accepting applications for grades K–8 for an immediate start, and second semester applications for high school. Find complete details and a list of upcoming events—both in-person and online— at K12.com/OH, or call 866.339.9074.

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Beautiful Portraits! Beautiful Gifts!

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Name: Date:

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The Harper Family Holiday 2010 www.portraitinnovations.com

Holiday Portrait Package Special Package Includes: Four – 3 x 5s

One – 10 x 13 Four – 5 x 7s

Two – 8 x 10s 32 Wallets

No Sitting Fees or Charges • Gift Certificates Available You're welcome to bring a change of clothes for you and your family.

Sessions Book Quickly. Hurry, Call for an Appointment Today!

Voice of America Centre • West Chester • 513.759.1910 Crestview Hills • Crestview Hills • 859.344.1310 Stone Creek Towne Center • Cincinnati • 513.245.9295

Studio Hours: Open Everyday 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. • PortraitInnovations.com Appointments Highly Recommended. Walk-ins are welcome but may be limited based on availability. No subject fee or additional charges. Only one $9.95 Holiday Portrait Special of your favorite pose per family or group from October 26, 2010 - January 2, 2011. Offer not valid for business purposes, individual adult subjects or unaccompanied minors. Offer subject to change at any time. Promotional and seasonal backgrounds may vary by studio location. Some studios closed on Mondays.