Northeast Ohio Parent Magazine - March 2020

MARCH 2020 FREE!

BEACHWOOD

COMMUNITY FOCUS Explore the City’s Culture, Family Fun & More!

BABY'S FIRST YEAR

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Celebrating Your Littlest One

68+

SUMMER CAMPS & PROGRAMS See Inside

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FROM HORSES, COWS AND SHEEP — ­ SUMMER CAMP FOSTERS A LOVE OF CARE

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2 | Family Living at Its Best

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MAPLE MADNESS

Find events on pg. 68

March insiDE NortheastOhioParent.com

features

departments

61

06

EDITOR'S NOTE Everyone Counts

GEAR FOR YOU AND BABY

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National Parenting Product Awards provides the new products in the market.

Plus, check out the area’s baby events on pg. 64

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BABY FOOD BLENDS

Some helpful tips on how to start making homemade baby foods.

Listings 14

WINTER OPEN HOUSES A full list of open houses for schools in the region.

WORTH NOTING Making sense of social apps for kids, Reading Room and what’s happening on NortheastOhioParent.com

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EVERYTHING ANIMALS

Camps that feature animals bring added benefits during your child’s summer fun.

AGES & STAGES What to know when your child wants an ear piercing.

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EDUCATION Generation Lockdown: Today’s students are growing up with the threat of violence as part of the curriculum.

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EDUCATION NEWS Noteworthy happenings from area schools.

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FAMILY CALENDAR Find events for all ages with these area happenings. Plus, Early Spring, Ongoing Attractions and Parent & Me special sections.

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AGING ANSWERS

CAMP GUIDE Plan a summer adventure for your child with this list of camps in the region.

BEACHWOOD BUSINESSES Find family-friendly places and services.

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Healthy local produce available for area seniors.

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ON THE COVER: Our on-the-farm photo shoot with Isa and Logan took place at Hiram House Camp, where Logan attends and interacts with horses, goats, sheep and chickens.

It was Isa’s first experience at the Chagrin Falls camp, where she learned about animal care and horses. hiramhousecamp.org PHOTOS BY KIM STAHNKE PHOTOGRAPHY

4 | Family Living at Its Best

#CLEMAMA Treasured lessons in mother-daughter moments.

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March 2020 - NortheastOhioParent.com

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Editor's NOTE

Everyone Counts PHOTO BY PRELUDE PHOTOGRAPHY

A decade ago, I was a mother of two young boys (a 1 year-old and 4-year-old) in my first home. Also, during this time, it was the 2010 U.S. Census, which aims to count every person in U.S. households.

Well, it’s happening again: the 2020 U.S. Census will be sent out later this month.

Now, some of you might have heard about the debate and chatter in the past year regarding changes to the 2020 questionnaire (it was decided the citizenship question will not be on the forms). However, have you heard about why it’s important to get an accurate count, especially for parents and children?

There is a movement for the 2020 U.S.Census to make sure to count every child, especially the youngest ages, infant to 5. In the previous census, an estimated 4 percent, or 1 million children, were missed.

Surprisingly, this isn’t a new issue, according to Steven Dillingham, director of the U.S. Census Bureau. It dates back to the 1970s; however, little research has been done to document why this was occuring.

A Task Force on the Undercount of Young Children Research team in 2013 studied data and issued a report in 2015 on this topic.

While the study couldn’t pinpoint an exact reason or cause, the results did provide potential problem areas — one factor could be a complex family life.

For example, kids might have been missed or not counted because they were living in households with multiple families, or living with grandparents or relatives or those who are adopted or homeless, children who move between households or living in rentals or young children who were born a few months prior to census. Also, children in minority groups such as Hispanic families were at high risk for going uncounted.

The Great Lakes Science Center hosted an event last month to bring awareness of the impact of an undercount.

“In general agreement, the more complex a household is, the greater risk a child may not be included in the completion census questionnaire,” Dillingham says. “(The undercount) impacts the community in different ways.”

This includes determinations for funding for programs such as Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), housing and education programs, National School Lunch program, Head Start, foster care and child care programs.

Augie Napoli, president and CEO of United Way of Greater Cleveland, says an accurate count helps low-income families.

“We here in Cleveland have a crisis in our community — approximately 51 percent of children live in poverty,” he says. “The count helps families stay healthy, stay fed and stay ready to succeed.”

Dillingham says to help better address the undercounted children, they did change the wording of the 2020 Census and improved training.

So, what could you do, as parents, to help with the count? Stay informed and when the Census questionnaire comes to your door (it can be done by online, mail, or phone), make sure everyone in your household is counted.

6 | Family Living at Its Best

VOL. NO. 7 • ISSUE NO. 03

March 2020 Northeast Ohio Parent is a property of

PO Box 1088 Hudson, OH 44236 330-822-4011 NortheastOhioParent.com PUBLISHER - Brad Mitchell

brad@northeastohioparent.com 330-714-7712 EDITORIAL:

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March 2020 - NortheastOhioParent.com

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Worth NOTING

Do You Know Your Child’s

Social Apps?

By Michèle L. Bailey

M

ost of us know this familiar routine.

Your son or daughter often may ask, “Can I have your phone?” Or maybe you have teenagers who disappear into their rooms or the folds of the couch on their own devices.

Kids just aren’t using text messages to communicate with friends; instead, there are many social apps to download — for chatting, sharing video and photos, or playing games. As a parent, do you know what your kids are using? We provide some popular communication apps, how kids are using them and ways parents can monitor what their kids are up to online.

Discord . . . is most likely

used by your kid if he or she is a gamer. This free voice, video and text app is designed for teens and adults ages 13 and older. It allows users to send direct messages to one another and/or engage in group chats when they are playing together. Teens can join public groups, ask to join private groups or start a group on their own. Some groups are more moderated than others, some are meant for adults and some may even share explicit and inappropriate content. There are parental controls, however, to set your child’s account so that they are only joining private groups with people they know in real life, as opposed to strangers.

Kik . . . a free messaging

app that features exclusive emojis, ecards and minigames.

Kik offers users anonymity and a platform that makes it easy for them to connect with strangers. Teens can join public chats centered around any topic in which they have an interest. Signing up is very easy and doesn’t require much information.

Parents should know that it is an app where inappropriate behavior can flourish.

Keep Kids Safe Online The Cuyahoga County Prosecutor’s Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force has been in operation for nearly 20 years. According to Special Investigations Chief Richard Bell, who oversees the ICAC Task Force, over the years there has been a steady increase in the number of predators attempting to entice kids online.

“The number of tips we’ve received has exploded from 2,000 to 7,000 per year,” Bell says. “Unmonitored access to online apps is a quick path to opening a

Family Living Living at at Its Its Best Best 8 | Family

Snapchat . . . is hugely

popular among those from ages 13-24. It allows users to exchange photos and videos with others online, but once the content is viewed, it disappears within seconds. However, the receiver can take a screenshot of the picture before it disappears and create a permanent copy — though the sender is notified when this happens. Users also can create private messaging threads and group chats among themselves. Parents should know that snapchat offers location sharing options. Users can make their location public, choose specific friends to share their location with or hide their location altogether by going into Ghost Mode.

Houseparty . . . a

video-focused social media app that is another way for kids to stay connected. This app allows kids to connect with up to eight friends at the same time, via live video and texts. The idea is for kids to add people they know to the party. Parents should know that if a child doesn’t “lock” their chat room and choose private settings, random strangers can join the video chat.

TikTok . . . boasts more

than 100 million users and is fast becoming the new kid craze. It’s a free social media app that allows users to watch, create and share short videos. The most popular videos highlight users lip syncing or dancing to popular music. Parents should know that when their child signs up for TikTok the account is public by default, meaning anyone can see your child’s video and location, as well as send them messages. To prevent this, you must turn on the privacy settings for your child’s account.

door for your child to become a victim.”

Bell adds that ICAC is concerned about the random person that your children might be talking to on the apps loaded on their phones, computers, XBox or Playstation.

“The problem is that parents don’t understand the apps their children are using,” Bell says. “There’s a risk of danger with just about any app used where you can share information and have a private conversation with a random person that you’ve never talked to before. It’s not just the TikTok, Whisper or Houseparty app that can quickly put you in touch with strangers, but also the old standby apps, such as Facebook and Instagram.”

“Kids are using apps and meeting people that are

WhatsApp . . . provides

a quick and easy way to text and make a video or voice call over the internet for free. This app is a big draw for those who need to keep up with family members traveling out of the country. As long as you are connected to the internet, you can share pictures, audio and video messages without cost. Kids love the app because it makes group messaging easy. Users can take part in chats consisting of friends, family and even complete strangers. A group can consist of 256 people at once, making it easy for information to go viral quickly, even if it is false information, inappropriate pictures or videos.

Whisper . . . a social

media app that offers posters complete anonymity. Users post either real or fake thoughts, confessions or secrets using a random nickname that the app assigns when they join. The app was originally intended for college-age students, but has trickled down to younger users.

Parents should know that Whisper is rated for ages 17 and older due to mature and suggestive themes. Also, users can grant location permissions, which means their locations will show up with their posts.

Instagram . . . a

mobile-friendly photo sharing social networking app. Kids love this app because it is image driven. Users can share pictures and add filters to make them more appealing. Others are then able to comment on the photos. Parents should know that photos and videos shared on Instagram are made public by default unless privacy settings are adjusted. Keeping the page public could open possibilities of cyber-bullying via the comments posted.

talking them into doing things that compromises their safety,” Dr. Jay Berk, psychologist at Jay Berk Ph.D, and Associates says.

According to Berk, some kids are more susceptible to danger than others. For example, children who are impulsive, depressed and anxious can go online and build relationships with people who are suffering from similar issues, and as a result, their challenges can deepen.

The Internet, he says, also is very enticing to children who have social anxiety because they can pretend to be whoever they want as they connect with people whom they haven’t met in real life. He adds keeping kids safe starts with parents being proactive.

ONLINE IN MARCH

NORTHEASTOHIOPARENT.COM If you love our monthly magazine, be sure to visit our website for even more great content you won’t find anywhere else.

FAMILY FINANCE

Local experts provide insight into relevant topics to help you bolster your family’s budget.

EGG HUNTS & EASTER EVENTS

Find a complete listing of egg hunts, breakfasts with the bunny and other Easter events happening throughout the region in March and April.

SOCIAL MEDIA GIVEAWAYS

Follow @NEOhioParent on Facebook and Instagram for giveaways to local events and attractions! Here’s a sample of March’s contest calendar: Cleveland Monsters

Get Refreshed! 2020

Goldfish Swim School

Greater Cleveland Aquarium Sesame Street Live!

READINGROOM EDITORS PICK “If You Give a Pig a Party”

By Laura Numeroff Follow the adventure of pig and all her friends, who she invites to her party that includes a pillow fight, a game of hideand-seek, balloons and more.

It’s a book to read out loud to kids of all ages.

“Facts vs. Opinions vs. Robots”

By Michael Rex

Berk and Bell offer a few steps parents can take to ensure the safety of their children while on a variety of apps: ● Have a conversation with your children about online safety. ● Require your child to gain your permission before accessing new apps. ● Limit the amount of time your child spends on the internet. ● Teach kids to balance their time between real life connections and Internet apps.

● Spend time with your children online; know their online friends and habits. ● Visit websites, such as ICAC’s, that offer updated safety information about various Internet apps. ● Put monitoring apps on your child’s phone and let them know that the app will track their Internet activity. ● Lobby your neighborhood school to provide digital education in the elementary school years.

Do you know the difference between a fact and an opinion? It can be a hard thing to understand. Some things are facts, like the number of robots in this book. Other things are opinions, like which robot would make the best friend or which robot dances best.

“Big Nate: Blow the Roof Off “

By Lincoln Pierce Nate is back in this new comic strip collection of his latest hijinks this month. Making it to middle school has certainly increased the drama in his life.

-Recommended by Willoughby-Eastlake Public Library

March 2020 - NortheastOhioParent.com

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Ages & STAGES

So your kid wants a

piercing...

EXPERTS SHARE INSIGHT INTO GETTING YOUR CHILD’S EARS PIERCED, FROM TINY TOT TO TEEN

By Sara Macho Hill

I

f you’re the parent of a little girl, chances are the subject of ear piercing has or will come up.

And if you’re the parent of a teenage girl or boy, be prepared for the conversation to possibly resurface again, this time perhaps with a different part of the body, such as a nose or lip piercing.

While there isn’t necessarily a “perfect age” to get a piercing — after all, we see babies with their teeny-tiny earlobes pierced — there are points to consider and discuss with your child, whether it’s a 5-year-old girl asking to get her ears pierced with sparkly studs or a 16-year-old wanting to make a statement about his or her individuality with a nose piercing.

Experts like Jeremiah Currier, owner of Good Life Body Piercing and Fine Jewelry in Akron, and a longtime member of the Association of Professional Piercers, frequently bring up the word “consent” when discussing piercing, referring to the concept of the child actually being ready and willing to make the life-changing choice to get a piercing.

“When I do get the opportunity to talk to parents ahead of time, that’s usually my opportunity to weed out some people who maybe aren’t actually ready [to get an ear piercing],” Currier says. “I’m not going to talk about pain or needles, but I do want you to talk about it with them and to be responsible by maybe watching videos with your kids of kids getting pierced. You know, sometimes kids walk in the door and everything changes. I’ll tell parents that a big part of what we do, a big theme, is that we have to have consent from the kids, and

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PHOTO COURTESY OF MASTER PIERCER JULIE SEMOCK (PICTURED), OF WAR HORSE INK

when these kids are ready, we don’t really have to do too much.”

Natasa Agatonovic, owner of Stranci Tattoo & Piercing Co. in Cleveland, says she always makes a point to have a conversation with the parents about piercings for children.

“The first thing I ask the parent is how the child does at the doctor’s office,” Stranci says.

“Do they want this done? When people are adamant, I recommend they talk to their pediatricians.”

Getting a piercing is considered a rite of passage for many children and anything new is always a little scary. For parents of children who want to get their ears pierced, the experience very often is one of the first times they must sit on the sidelines and watch their children take the reins. For adolescents, there’s all the unfamiliar sensations that come along with the experience, like the pungent smell of rubbing alcohol; the feel of stiff, sharp piercing equipment; and the mixed emotions of suddenly having to put trust into a stranger. A teen may counteract their nervousness with overdramatic actions and behavior.

“I always tell parents to be prepared to not really be the parent and to just be your kid’s fan,” Currier says. “You’re going to be in the bleachers watching this big moment in your kid’s life.

When they are nervous or shy, you don’t need to step in. We take those moments and we get on their level.”

When emotions run high, piercing professionals have tons of ways to keep things calm and cool. Currier, for example, plays the “Frozen” soundtrack on the shop’s speakers. Aga-

tonovic tells parents to bring along their child’s favorite stuffed animal so she can pierce its ears, as well.

“I set aside two hours for a child’s piercing and if they’re too nervous, I would refuse service,” Agatonovic says. “It’s not something you have to do; it should be something you want to do. It’s this big thing in a child’s life and it should be a fun, welcoming experience.”

Master Piercer Julie Semock, of War Horse Ink, with locations in Kent and Ravenna, says she makes sure to explain everything that is happening and schedules children’s ear-piercing appointments for evenings or on quiet Sundays.

“We’re big on making sure the person consents to what we are doing,” Semock says. “If another staff person is available, we offer tandem piercing so it’s a nice, easy experience. It’s very cool watching these kids make adult decisions and for them to learn at a young age, especially little girls, that they are in charge of their own bodies.”

Parents, too, can take a cue from Semock and take the time to explain to their child what it means to have a piercing and the choices they are making with their body.

When it comes to the piercing procedure itself, that can depend on where you go. Stores in the mall likely are using piercing guns for ear piercing, while body piercing shops use single-use needles. At Piercing Pagoda, a chain with hundreds of locations across the country, professionals undergo training recertification each year, says Michelle Dellow, manager of store operations. She recommends that par-

ents discuss the piercing thoroughly before coming to the store and that the child brings along a favorite toy or stuffed animal. Piercing Pagoda professionals also make sure to bond with the child and have conversations about the procedure.

In many parent circles, it’s becoming increasingly popular to go to a body piercing/ tattoo studio. Semock credits the internet for the shift.

“It’s more popular today for parents to do online research and read online reviews,” Semock says. “I think society in general is more aware of where they are taking their business. It’s really cool to see the industry changing and parents more understanding of it.”

Currier acknowledged the shift, as well.

“We talk about it in my industry, that piercing kids is really like more of a cause,” he

says. “Piercing kids is a lot tougher, it’s more involved and their appointments take time, but we want to create a healthy, safe option that historically hasn’t been there.”

Currier thinks a piercing can serve as a template for any life-changing parent/child moment.

“When you see the moment to want to coddle them, don’t do it,” Currier says. “You’re just watching what’s going down.”

Ear Piercing After-Care Reminders and Tips from the Professionals

◗ Initial healing takes about eight weeks. Full healing can take roughly six months or up to a year. ◗ Cleansing tips can vary, with professionals recommending either a saline spray/wound wash, a soap-and-water cleanse, a salt-water rinse or an ear care solution. Regardless of where you take your child, expect to receive take-home material and a thorough explanation of how to clean the piercing. Many places include cleaning solutions in their piercing packages. ◗ Advise your child not to touch or play with their new piercing and jewelry, no matter how tempting.

Hands off ! ◗ Twisting or “turning” the earring throughout the day is generally not recommended by body piercers, as it works to constantly contradict the body’s natural response to heal around the hole and piercing. ◗ Jewelry should generally not be changed until after six to eight weeks. Always opt for nickel-free earrings.

Avoid inexpensive earrings, shopping instead at a jewelry store until you learn what metals agree and don’t agree with your child. ◗ Practice care when your child changes clothes/gets dressed, wears headphones, combs or brushes their hair around the piercing and uses a heavy bath towel.

Have your child avoid wearing thick, knitted sweaters and frequently swap out their pillowcase for a new, clean one. Do not swim for at least two months. ◗ Some immediate redness, heat and soreness is normal, but watch for any signs of infection like itchiness, swollen skin and/or dark-colored discharge.

Many places offer a four-week check-up following the piercing.

March 2020 - NortheastOhioParent.com

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Students on

LOCKDOWN TODAY’S STUDENTS ARE GROWING UP IN A TIME WHEN PREPARING FOR A VIOLENT INTRUDER IS PART OF THE CURRICULUM

By Heather Tunstall

She remembers it started around sixth grade.

Emma Shelnutt, of Olmsted Falls, says this new kind of safety drill was something the school called a “lockdown drill.” The students were told that in case of a lockdown, they were to stay quiet, turn off the lights, lock and barricade the door, spread throughout the room and hide.

As these drills became a regular part of the school year, the concept of having an active shooter or violent intruder enter the school was frightening to Emma. It was upsetting for Amanda Shelnutt, Emma’s mother, too, but she was grateful that the school district was at least doing something.

“As a parent, it’s very scary to raise children these days,” she says. “Every generation has their thing. But this is something new, and you are entrusting your children to be kept safe by people who are with them every day. It was nice to know that the school district was taking it seriously and trying to prepare both the faculty and the kids to the best of their ability.”

As of Nov. 17, there had been 369 mass shootings in the U.S. in 2019, on pace to average more than one mass shooting per day, according to data from Gun Violence Archive, which tracks mass shootings in the country. Twenty-eight of those shootings were mass murders, defined as incidents in which at least four people were killed.

Mass shootings are defined as an incident in which four or more people (excluding the gunman) are shot.

The Center for Homeland Defense and

12 | Family Living at Its Best

Security at the Naval Postgraduate School in California has tracked 86 shootings at K-12 schools in 2019 as of this writing, with 22 deaths (including the shooters) and 107 total injured or killed.

Even still, the odds of being killed in a school shooting are extremely low — about one in 2 million. Yet, school shootings rank as the second most common worry among children ages 6 to 17, according to a 2018 survey by the Children’s Defense Fund, a nonprofit child advocacy group.

Today, Emma is a high school sophomore and says the feeling that “this can’t happen to us” has diminished with each new report that comes out of a school shooting.

“The school environment as a whole, no matter what district you are in, has changed,” Emma says. “Not just because the drills have been added in, but just because it’s becoming a reality for every student everywhere. And knowing that we have to add in these drills just to make sure that we can continue our education safely, it’s scary.

It’s overwhelming and it’s scary.”

DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVES

Emma started school before the lockdown drills became prevalent and was jolted by their arrival. However, for students who have always had lockdown drills as part of their school experience, it may not be as frightening. Younger students often think of the lockdown drills in a similar way that they think of fire drills or tornado drills — they’re just a regular part of a school day for them.

Research suggests that the vast majority of violent intruders are current or former students of the school. One of the most important things to talk with your kids about is how to identify a student who may be a threat, and what to do if they hear something about a potential attack.

Emma and her classmates understand the gravity of the drills they perform — a training program called ALICE (Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter, Evacuate), which includes instruction on when to try to escape, when to defend yourself and fight back, or how to communicate a situation — and that no matter where they are in the country, there is a possibility of violence on school grounds. Most schools are using ALICE or a type of safety training measures for students and teachers.

The drills Emma and her classmates undergo include how to defend themselves against the intruder if it came to it. Emma says they were told to throw objects, punch, grab anything they can get their hands on to use as a weapon, and prepare to protect themselves. Teachers also were instructed to put wallpaper on the door windows as a deterrent in case of an intruder.

Riley Phillips,12, a seventh grader in Ellet, doesn’t think too much about the drills.

“It just feels fun, because we know it’s fake,” Riley says. “The boys grab scissors and weapons that we can defend ourselves with.

The girls are actually taking it seriously, and we all have scissors and it’s more like a game.

But we’re not supposed to talk.”

Riley was quick to note that when a real

Mental Health America says that knowing how to talk with your kids about school safety issues could be critical in recognizing and preventing acts of violence, while playing an important role in managing students’ fears, anxiety and sense of personal risk. It offers the following suggestions: lockdown occurred when he was in third grade, he was terrified at the time. Luckily, it turned out to be a false alarm.

His mother, Julie Phillips, is in her 20th year of teaching in Akron, currently teaching sixth grade language arts at Hyre CLC. Her students also consider the lockdown drills to be no big deal — unless they have one that’s unannounced.

“When we’re on lockdown and the kids know it’s not a drill and we don’t know what’s going on, then they panic,” she says. “Because they think this could be real, and they are old enough to know what ‘real’ is. It’s a lot worse when there’s a lockdown that wasn’t planned, because in their mind, it’s a shooter.”

Many schools also are working toward securing their buildings.

Willoughby-Eastlake School District, for example, has worked on improving designs to secure school access and other safety features on the windows and doors.

Olmsted Falls School District has a mental health reporting system in place to check on students’ well-being. It’s an anonymous reporting system through which students or parents can text, call or go in directly to give the guidance office information if a student is having a hard time, has been missing a lot of class, has an altercation or in any way looks like they need help. It enables the guidance office to reach out to that student or their family to check on them and make sure that everything’s okay.

TALKING TO YOUR KIDS

ABOUT VIOLENCE IN SCHOOL

It can be a difficult decision to make as a parent whether or not to broach the topic of mass violence in school. On one hand, you don’t want your kids to be fearful of going to school or anxious about something that is statistically improbable. On the other hand, they’ll be going through ALICE or lockdown drills and will be discussing it with teachers and friends, so it’s best for

parents to be in the conversation.

For most preschoolers and elementary school students that have taken part in lockdown drills, schools tend to soften the description, with no mention of “shooters” or violence. The scenario is presented as there may be a time when someone who’s not supposed to be in the building is there, and they’re practicing hiding and staying quiet. The school usually sends a note or email home to let parents know that a lockdown drill will be happening.

“With the note, I automatically ask my kids about it — I bring it up to them, but they’ve never really felt like it’s a big deal,” says Amanda Funk, parent to three elementary-aged children in Olmsted Falls. “I was a little caught off guard and it did scare me a little bit the first time I saw the letter. But once I talked to my kids about it and they didn’t look at it as a big deal, I had to look at it as a safety measure that the schools need to take so that they don’t have kids in chaos if that ever does unfortunately happen at one of our schools.”

According to an “age-by-age guide” for talking to children about shootings published by the “Today Show,” author Meghan Holohan recommends talking with your children about intruders, shootings and other violence in schools in age-appropriate ways.

For example, Holohan writes “Preschool aged kids should have one-sentence, high-level explanations that are in line with your beliefs as a parent. For elementary school kids, ask a question first, like, “How do you prepare for emergencies at school?’ and hear the language they’re using at school so that you can address it at their level. For older students in middle school and high school, avoid dismissing or trying to solve the problem. They are looking for empathy and understanding, and trying to fix the problem for them will make you lose credibility. Listen, and ask how they feel.”

• Encourage children to talk about their concerns and to express their feelings. Make sure to do so in an age-appropriate way.

• Talk honestly about your own feelings regarding school violence. It’s important they know they’re not dealing with their fears alone.

• Validate the child’s feelings. Do not minimize a child’s concerns, but let him/her know that serious school violence is not common.

Stress that schools are safe places.

• Empower children to take action regarding school safety. Encourage them to report incidents such as bullying, threats or talk of suicide, and work with them on problem solving and conflict-resolution skills. If your older student’s school has student-run anti-violence programs, encourage your child to participate if they feel comfortable.

• Discuss the safety procedures that are in place at your child’s school. Help your child understand that they are in place to keep them all safe and stress the importance of following school rules and policies.

• Create safety plans with your child. Help identify which adults (a friendly secretary, trusted teacher or approachable administrator) your child can talk to if they feel scared or threatened at school. Also ensure that your child knows how to reach you (or another family member or friend) in case of crisis during the school day. Remind your child that they can talk to you any time they feel threatened.

• Recognize behavior that may indicate your child is concerned about returning to school.

Younger children might not want to go to school or participate in school-based activities. Teens may not outwardly show their anxiety, but may become argumentative, withdrawn or allow their school performance to decline.

• Keep the dialogue going and make school safety a common topic in family discussions, rather than just a response to an immediate crisis. Open dialogue will encourage children to share their concerns.

• Seek help when necessary. If you are worried about a child’s reaction or have ongoing concerns about their behavior or emotions, contact a mental health professional at school or at your community mental health center. Your local Mental Health Association or the National Mental Health Association’s Information Center can direct you to resources in your community.

March 2020 - NortheastOhioParent.com

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MONTESSORI SCHOOL OF

UNIVERSITY HEIGHTS FOUNDED 1968

SCHOOL OPEN HOUSES BEAUMONT SCHOOL 3301 N. Park Blvd., Cleveland Hts. 216-321-2954, beaumontschool.org April 29: 5:30-7 p.m.

CLEVELAND MONTESSORI SCHOOL 12510 Mayfield Road, Cleveland 216-421-0700, clevelandmontessori.org March 14: 9:30-11 a.m.

GILMOUR ACADEMY 34001 Cedar Road, Gates Mills 440-473-8050, gilmour.org/visit April 19: noon-2 p.m.

(Middle/Upper School) HANNA PERKINS SCHOOL 19910 Malvern Road, Shaker Hts. 216-991-4472, hannaperkins.org April 1: 4-6 p.m.

THREE YEAR PROGRAM BEGINNING AT AGE THREE

HAWKEN SCHOOL

Lower & Middle Schools 5000 Clubside Road, Lyndhurst 440-423-4446, hawken.edu April 19: 1 p.m.

Upper School 12465 County Line Road, Gates Mills 440-423-4446, hawken.edu April 26: 1 p.m.

CALL FOR A

PERSONAL TOUR

216-381-8388 23599 CEDAR ROAD BEACHWOOD, OH

WWW.MS-UH.ORG “The most important period of life is not the age of university studies, but the first one, the period of birth to age six. For that is the time when man’s intelligence itself, his greatest implement, is being formed.”

-Dr. Maria Montessori

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Mastery School Magnolia Drive, University Circle 440-423-2955, hawken.edu May 3: 1 p.m.

HERSHEY MONTESSORI

Upper School 11530 Madison Road, Huntsburg Twp. 440-636-6290, hershey-montessori.org March 9, April 6 & May 4: 9-11 a.m.

Lower School 10229 Prouty Road, Concord Twp. 440-357-0918, hershey-montessori.org March 11 & May 6: 9-11 a.m.

JULIE BILLIART SCHOOLS

4982 Clubside Road, Lyndhurst 216-381-1191, juliebilliartschool.org April 23: 9 a.m.

380 Mineola Ave., Akron 330-333-5280, juliebilliartschool.org April 1: 9 a.m.

LAKE RIDGE ACADEMY 37501 Center Ridge Road, North Ridgeville 440-327-1175, lakeridgeacademy.org April 5: 1 p.m.

LAUREL SCHOOL 1 Lyman Circle, Shaker Hts. 216-464-1441, laurelschool.org April 18: 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

(Middle and Upper School) LAWRENCE SCHOOL

Lower School 1551 E. Wallings Road, Broadview Hts. 440-526-0717, lawrenceschool.org April 15: 8:30-10:30 a.m.

MENLO PARK ACADEMY 2149 W. 53rd St., Cleveland 440-925-6365, menloparkacademy.com March 7: 10-11:30 a.m. (open house) April 28: 6-7:30 p.m. (information night) OLD TRAIL SCHOOL 2315 Ira Road, Bath 330-666-1118, oldtrail.org April 19: 1-2:30 p.m.

OUR LADY OF THE ELMS 1375 W. Exchange St., Akron 330-836-9384, theelms.org March 29: noon-2 p.m.

VILLA ANGELA-ST. JOSEPH HIGH SCHOOL 18491 Lakeshore Blvd., Cleveland 216-481-8414, vasj.com March 12: 6 p.m.

March 2020 - NortheastOhioParent.com

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- SPONSORED CONTENT -

March

ARN THROUGH PLAY 3 EASY TIPS TO LE

By Eric Bailey

B

first few years abies grow and develop so much in the ies become bab as es of life. This development continu e toys to nsiv expe toddlers. Fortunately, it doesn’t take you can help them learn help your child progress. Better yet, our Early Intervention though play using these easy tips from toys do I need to buy’ [for experts. “I get asked, ‘What kinds of tal Specialist Melissa my child]?” Summit DD Developmen you don’t have to buy Jarvis began. “The good news is that ady have.” Jarvis went special toys. You can use items you alre ut the toy, and more about on to explain that it becomes less abo can use everyday items how an item is presented and used. You as kitchen utensils, pots that you may have laying around, such not, these common items and pans, cups or boxes. Believe it or munication skills. can help your child’s motor and com

BELOW ARE A FEW TIPS MELISSA OFFERED THAT YOU CAN USE AT HOME TO HELP YOUR CHILD LEARN THROUGH

1. START A BAND

It’s hard to always be quiet, so give your child a chance to let their inner rock star out. Let your child bang on a pot or pan with a plastic or wooden kitchen utensil. You can pair any number of words or sounds, such as “bang.”

2. KNOCK IT DOWN

Every child likes to tip things over. This is your chance to use it as a learning game. Have your child help you stack empty boxes or blocks. You can make towers, pyramids, or any shape you choose. While building your tower, say things like, “Up, up, up,” that can help narrate the action.

Then you and your child can have fun knocking everything over while yelling, “boom!”

Check out additional Interested in more tips from the experts? articles on SummitDD.org.

16 | Family Living at Its Best

3. PLAY BALL

Sit on the floor with your child.

Show them a ball and gently roll it toward them. Pair the phrase, “roll the ball” as you begin to roll the ball. You can add a sound like, “weeeee” while the ball is rolling to help add additional communication with the action.

Encourage your child to follow your lead, and “cheer” the ball on together as it rolls.

March 2020 - NortheastOhioParent.com

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Education NEWS

Kathryn Purcell Named Next President of Saint Joseph Academy

The Saint Joseph Academy Board of Directors announced Kathryn Purcell as its next president, beginning the 2020-21 academic year. Purcell is succeeding Mary Ann Corrigan-Davis, the school’s first president, who will retire at the end of June.

“With gratitude to Mary Ann Corrigan-Davis for her 14 years of strong leadership, we warmly welcome Kathryn Purcell and look forward to the many

contributions she will bring to Saint Joseph Academy in her role as the next president,” says Kelly Hancock, board of directors chair.

Purcell joins Saint Joseph Academy, an all-girls Catholic high school Cleveland, after a 24-year tenure at Laurel School, most recently as the associate head of school. Prior to that position, she served in various leadership, administrative, teaching and coaching roles.

“In addition to the strong and innovative academic program, Saint Joseph Academy’s commitment to faith, service, character development and community is particularly compelling to me,” Purcell says in a press release. “We want young women to feel empowered, confident and comfortable with people like and unlike themselves. We want them to ask questions and to stand up for what they believe. The Saint Joseph Academy community is organized to help deliver this mission in a faith-filled setting, and I feel inspired to serve as its new leader.”

— Submitted by Saint Joseph Academy, sja1890.org

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Ohio Department of Education Awards Schools for Commitment to Military Families

State Superintendent of Public Instruction Paolo DeMaria announced that 94 Ohio schools, including in districts from Northeast Ohio, received the Purple Star Award this school year. The Purple Star designation recognizes schools that demonstrate a major commitment to serving students and families connected to the U.S. armed forces.

Approximately 35,000 Ohio students, including the children of active duty, reserve and Ohio National Guard families, have one or more parents serving in the military. Some of these students will attend six to nine different schools from kindergarten through high school.

Among the requirements a school must meet to receive the Purple Star

Award are designating a liaison between military-connected students and their families and the school, and making certain the liaison informs teachers of the military-connected students in their classrooms and the special considerations military families and students should receive.

The Purple Star Advisory Board — formed by the Ohio departments of Education, Higher Education, Veterans Services and Adjutant General — helps determine school eligibility.

The 2019-20 Purple Star recipients include North Royalton Schools —Albion Elementary, High School, Middle, Royal View Elementary, Valley Vista; Kenston Middle School in Chagrin Falls; Cloverleaf High School in Medina; East Woods Elementary in Hudson; Green High School; Herberich Primary School in Fairlawn; Manchester Local Schools —

Middle and Nolley Elementary; Richardson Elementary School in Cuyahoga Falls; Springfield High School and Junior High School; Tallmadge High School; Rootstown Elementary; and Waterloo High School in Atwater.

“We are grateful for the individuals who serve in our nation’s armed forces, and we recognize the unique challenges students of military families face during their learning journeys,” DeMaria says in a press release. “Our school communities are in a unique position to offer essential supports to ensure these students are prepared for success and their families are cared for and appreciated. We recognize the schools showcasing these supports and inspiring all of us by their commitment to our military families.”

— Courtesy of Ohio Department of Education, education.ohio.gov

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Horses are a key attraction for campers at Hiram House Camp and many other camps in the region. Some programs only offer riding, while others let kids get handson with horse care.

PHOTO BY KIM STAHNKE

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EVERYTHING

a

s n ima l

FROM HORSES TO BUNNIES AND EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN, ANIMALS MAKE SUMMER CAMP EVEN BETTER

T

BY BRANDON SZUMINSKY

hinking about fun at summer camp might conjure up activities like archery, canoeing, crafts, swimming or hiking in the woods. But for many campers in Northeast Ohio, summer camp isn’t summer camp unless there are animals.

Whether learning to ride a horse or wrangling a goat, shearing a sheep or snuggling with a bunny, summer camps in the region have plenty of opportunities for your family to get back to nature. There are plenty of options from which to choose, but one thing is certain: if there are animals as part of summer camp, local camp directors say it likely means campers will benefit in a number of ways.

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PHOTO COURTESY OF HIRAM HOUSE CAMP

Campers in Northeast Ohio can learn to ride horses at a number of summer camps.

Hiram House, which also features a farmstead program, includes other animals like donkeys, sheep, chicken and bunnies for campers to get up close and personal with.

PHOTO COURTESY OF HIRAM HOUSE CAMP

PHOTO COURTESY OF FALCON CAMP

S

PERSONAL GROWTH

ummer camp often is a chance for kids to grow and learn to be more independent versions of themselves, and camp staff in the area say they see animals as an integral part of that process.

Horses are a common activity at camps because they can be such an effective teaching tool. Dave Devey, camp director and owner of Falcon Camp, says working with horses can teach campers confidence, responsibility, communication and patience, and make them “overall a more-rounded individual.”

In fact, the sheer size of horses often makes them a good confidence booster for campers; Devey says horse riding can help younger kids feel like a “superhero.”

“When you get on a thousand-pound horse, you know, as an 8- or 9-year-old and that horse is listening to every little thing that you're asking it to do, there's no better self-esteem and confidence booster than that,” he says. “There’s a sense of accomplishment when you get down off that horse and that horse starts rubbing on you, showing affection and showing love.”

Working with animals at camp also can be a chance to face the unknown or overcome fears in a low-risk setting, and spending time working with animals produces an obvious effect on campers, says Brent Grundke, ranch manager at Hiram House Camp.

“You can see self-esteem improvements right away,” he says. “And by the end of the week, you can see a difference. I've seen children that come in as quiet as a mouse walking away like they're about to do Broadway.”

T

RECONNECT WITH NATURE

he onsite farmstead at Hiram House Camp in Chagrin Falls means animal interactions go way beyond a few horse riding sessions.

“The kids are going to participate in shearing our sheep. We collect eggs.

When we have baby cows, they'll feed baby cows their milk; take care of bunnies and rabbits. They help wrangle goats,” Grundke says. “They all get a chance to do this hands-on.”

This is all by design, Grundke says, to help combat the fact that for some children in Northeast Ohio, going to summer camp is just about the only time they can directly interact with the natural world. Campers may have pets at home, or see squirrels or the occasional deer, but Grundke says spending time at the farmstead

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strips away some of the everyday barriers erected between kids and nature. This is particularly true for the kinds of animals found on a farm, and eventually a plate, he says, as he regularly has campers who don’t realize that their McDonald’s hamburger came from a cow or that eggs came from a chicken. Of course, young campers can have typically large reactions to such realizations, Grundke says.

“Some are a little grossed out and some are overly excited — ‘oh my gosh this is where it's coming from,’” he says with a laugh.

Humorous reactions aside, Courtney Guzy, executive director of Hiram House Camp, says these are sometimes “massive growth moments” for some campers.

“You get this feeling that we really, really open their eyes to something new,” she says.

PHOTO BY KIM STAHNKE

A C

BARN BENEFITS LOGAN, 12, ATTENDS HIRAM HOUSE HOUSE CAMP in the summer and works with the farm animals on the camp’s Double H Ranch.

His mom, Lindsey Auerbach, who also attended the camp as a child, says the activities are unlike those offered at traditional day camps.

“The outdoor experiences, as well as the outdoor education, places kids in an adventurous environment that enables them to discover new things,” she says.

Logan has always had a love of animals, and his mom says he is a great example of the benefits of animal therapy.

“He always loved to pet, hug and learn about any animal he encountered,” she says. “When Logan is with animals, he is able to calmly focus on the animal’s need, feels incredibly happy and very confident. His personal experiences with the animals at Hiram House has really fostered that growth. He has learned how to care for animals but even more so, he learned how to sense the needs and communication of the animals.”

She says riding horses has taught him how to sense and respect what the animal is communicating.

“He has developed a true sense of self confidence and trust in his skills through his interactions and the incredibly supportive environment at the barn,” she says. ­— ­By Angela Gartner

WORKING WITH OTHERS

t camp, a few four-legged friends can be a real asset in helping shy campers make camp buddies. In particular, animals can bring together kids who might otherwise struggle to find a connection — “it's the ultimate ice breaker,” Grundke says.

“When you get four kids who don’t know each other on horses, that's the time, when they're going to start talking to each other, because they're experiencing something new for the first time but together,” he says.

At Chagrin Valley Farm’s Horsemanship Camp, the focus on horses and riding makes finding common ground with new friends easy, says Camp Manager Sue Ford. The result often is friends that last far longer than one summer. “(Camp friendship) crosses barriers and boundaries,” she says, “and they’re friends, you know, often for life, because they have that horse thing in common.”

EMOTIONAL BENEFITS

amp, no matter how fun the activities and how great the facilities, also has the potential for big emotions — fights with friends, homesickness, loneliness. When a camp features animals, however, it can be a secret weapon for camp staff.

“Sometimes when you have a homesick camper, when you have a camper who’s having a tough day, and they come to you and they want to talk,” says Devey of Falcon Camp, “it’s not unusual for one of us to take a walk with them and end up out at the stables. Because you can stand there next to a horse, and while you’re talking, you can pet it or get a little bit of grain and feed them a little bit. It helps you feel better about yourself when you’re taking care of someone else.”

Beyond helping staff soothe campers’ raw emotions, though, horses give campers a chance to learn how to better navigate their own relationships in a hands-on manner.

“When they overcome an issue with a horse — maybe the horse is being stubborn, maybe the horse is just having a bad day — you can do a lesson with these children that even animals have bad days. And when you get the opportunity for these kids to realize that every horse has a different personality, just like humans do, it's a significant life lesson,” Devey says.

“And when they leave here, they're going to recognize that and it's going to translate to other human interactions, as well. Not just with animals.”

Chagrin Valley Farm’s Ford, who also has experience with using ponies and dogs for therapeutic work, agrees. She says there’s something “sort of magical” about children getting hands-on contact with horses.

“The horses don't wake up and say, ‘okay, I'm going to set out to make somebody's day,’” Ford says. “They just naturally emanate something that helps make our day.”

Over the years, Ford says she’s noticed a greater need for the value a relationship with a horse can provide.

“Teenagers today — it just seems like they have so much more anger, anxiety and things that they're worried about and things that consume them emotionally,” she says. “And I just can't even tell you how many times I have watched the horses’ presence here treat that, make that go away, even if just temporarily.”

W

ON-THE-FARM BONDS

hile it may seem strange, one of the benefits of summer camps with animals is that they involve a good bit of hard work. Campers at Hiram House help wrangle goats. At Falcon Camp, they volunteer to clean horse stalls. Before riding at Chagrin Valley Horse Camp, the campers tack their own horses.

After all, at these camps the animals are not a novelty. They’re not an attraction. They’re something that takes work, and Ford says that’s an aspect of camp that parents tend to appreciate.

“Parents really loved the fact that we're teaching them to do, the tasks, if you will, and learning the responsibility involved (with animals),” she says.

Guzy says the staff at Hiram House Camp often hears from parents who are appreciative the camp gets their kids to do physical work with animals — washing, brushing and cleaning stalls — and away from screens. Hiram House Camp, like many camps that feature animals, is a technology-free camp.

“We like it that way because it gives kids a chance to unplug, to get outside and interact with each other, interact with animals, to be a kid, you know?” Guzy says. “We take a lot of pride in doing that.”

By keeping kids off their phones, it opens them up to things they might otherwise miss while trying to record it for posterity, she says.

“What we see happening is, especially with our smaller animals, kids just cuddling up and loving on them and really taking their time and getting to know them,” Guzy says.

“Otherwise, I think if we let the kids have their cellphones, they’d be videotaping them, taking selfies and you lose that bond.”

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SUMMER OPTIONS FOR YOUR CHILD

AKRON ARTWORKS Visit akronartworks.com

AKRON CHILDREN’S MUSEUM

Visit akronkids.org/calendar/programs

AR WORKSHOP

Now offering camps in two locations: Hudson and Strongsville. AR Workshop offers creative and crafty Summer ARt Camps. Its single day or full week sessions are designed for girls and boys ages 6-14. Kids create DIY wood, canvas and yarn projects along with camp t-shirts. Visit arworkshop.com

BALDWIN WALLACE COMMUNITY ARTS SCHOOL Visit bw.edu/sap

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Guide

BECK CENTER FOR THE ARTS

Beck Center offers half-day and full-day camps for ages 5-19 in dance, music, theater and visual arts. Students learn new skills and build self-esteem as they create unique works of art, develop new friendships, discover hidden talents, stimulate their imagination and have fun. Beck Center also will offer more than 140 arts education classes and lessons for people of all ages and abilities. Call 216-521-2540 or visit beckcenter.org

BUSY BEES POTTERY & ARTS STUDIO

Busy Bees Pottery & Arts Studio, located in Mentor, offers weekly themed summer art camps for kids ages 5-12. Full- or half-day camps will keep them busy learning various art methods while creating multiple projects each day.

Call 440-571-5201 or visit mentor.busybeesart.com

CAMP ASBURY

For 62 years, Camp Asbury has been forming faith and connecting people to nature. Resident camp for grades first through 12th: June 14-July 24.

Day camp for grades first through sixth: June 15-July 24. Register online for oneweek sessions at eocsummercamps.org.

Call 330-569-3171 or visit campasbury.org

CAMP CARL

Get ready for the loudest, funniest and most impactful week of your kid’s summer! At Camp Carl, campers jump high, dance silly, explore the great outdoors and learn all about Jesus Christ.

From incredible activities and exciting theme nights to deep friendships and outdoor challenges, you’ll find that Camp Carl is an amazing camp. Call 330-3155665 or visit campcarl.life

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Guide

CAMP CURIOSITY SCIENCE DAY CAMPS Visit greatscience.com

CAMP FITCH YMCA

Camp Fitch’s century-old, classic sleep-away summer camp provides boys and girls ages 6-17 with a holistically safe, values-driven community where they discover friendship and achievement. Kids feel like they belong among the camp’s carefully vetted, highly committed and caring staff, who create transformative experiences on the shore of Lake Erie.

North Springfield, Pa., Call 814-922-3219 or visit campfitchymca.org

CAMP INVENTION

Imaginations will soar in the all-new Camp Invention program “Elevate!”

Campers in kindergarten through sixth grade will collaborate in hands-on STEM activities exploring concepts of flight, Earth’s ecosystems and sports innovations.

Use promo code LOCAL25 to save $25 (expires 3/31) or LOCAL15 to save $15 (expires 5/12). Call 800-968-4332 or visit invent.org/camp

CAMP LEAD

Camp LEAD: “The Amazing Chase” is a week-long day camp with high-energy activities promoting leadership and social emotional learning. Inspired by the TV show “The Amazing Race,” campers learn about healthy competition, collaboration and accomplishing goals. Campers will stretch personal limits to become effective leaders. Call 216-292-8775 or visit effectivela.org

CAMP WHITEWOOD

Since 1940, ACA accredited Camp Whitewood fosters a safe, fun and engaging environment for children to learn and grow, providing quality summer camps at economical prices.

Any child can attend its day and overnight programs, regardless of 4-H membership. Call to schedule a personal tour. Call 440-272-5275 or visit 4hcampwhitewood.com - CONTINUED ON PAGE 28 -

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C A M P

Guide

CAVS ACADEMY SUMMER CAMPS Visit cavsyouth.com

CHAGRIN VALLEY FARMS Visit chagrinvalleyfarms.com

CHALLENGE ISLAND STEAMTASTIC SUMMER CAMPS

nt!

Eve Free

Meet dozens of camps at the 2020 Northeast Ohio Parent Camp & Summer Programs Fair!

East and West locations. March 7-8.

Learn more at NortheastOhioParent.com or see page 83 in this issue for details.

Challenge Island is a high-energy, hands-on fusion of STEAM, 21st century skills, problem-solving and adventure.

Campers embark on fantastical themed STEAM journeys where they work in collaborative teams to tackle various exciting challenges using only the materials in their treasure chest and their boundless imaginations.

Visit challenge-island.com/ summit-medina or challenge-island. com/clevelandeast

CLASSROOM ANTICS STEAM CAMPS Visit classroomantics.com/ cleveland-summer-camps

CLEVELAND CITY DANCE Visit clevelandcitydance.com

CLEVELAND HEARING & SPEECH CENTER – FACEtime Camp

The FACEtime Summer Camp at Cleveland Hearing & Speech Center is designed for older children and young teens who stutter.

Campers will participate in individual and group therapy at the University Circle location and will practice their skills in real-life situations at restaurants and Cleveland-area attractions. Transportation will be required for some offsite activities.

Visit chsc.org

CLEVELAND METROPARKS GOLF JUNIOR DAY CAMPS

Visit clevelandmetroparks.com/golf

CLEVELAND METROPARKS SUMMER NATURE CAMPS Visit clevelandmetroparks.com

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Guide

CLEVELAND METROPARKS ZOO SUMMER DAY CAMPS Visit futureforwildlife.org

COMMON GROUND

Visit commongroundcenter.org

CPH SUMMER ACADEMY

Join Cleveland Play House for CPH Summer Academy. Students ages 4-18 can participate in half-day, weeklong or two-week intensives in June and July.

Classes are open to students of all abilities and experience levels.

Scholarships and aftercare are available.

Call 216-414-7111 or visit clevelandplayhouse.com/academy

CREATIVE PLAYROOMS

Creative Playrooms is the perfect solution for your summer camp needs with on-site swimming pools at most locations, hot meals, full-day care, field trips and so much more. Six locations: Independence, Maple Heights, Parma, Solon, Strongsville and Westlake. Convenient locations, great programming. Call 440-349-9111 or visit creativeplayrooms.com

CUYAHOGA COMMUNITY COLLEGE (TRI-C)

Whether your child is a young performer or a budding engineer, Tri-C Summer Camps will help them discover their passions and talents. Choose from more than 30 camps offered at five locations across the region, featuring culinary, film, game design, music, performing arts, recreation and STEM. Call 216-987-3075 and select option 1 or visit tri-c.edu/summercamps

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DISCOVER CAMP 2020

Medina Community Recreation Center has camps to keep kids active all summer.

Discover Camp, a day camp for ages 6-11, engages kids with swimming, reading, enrichment, crafts, games and a weekly field trip. Adventure Camp gets that 11 to 14 age group away from their screens and outside to explore. Play Camp for ages 3-5 meets two afternoons a week and engages preschoolers in crafts, creative play and meeting new friends. Sports camps also are available. Call 330-721-6901 or visit medinarec.org

ETIQUETTE KINDNESS SPECIALITY CAMPS

This summer at Gilmour Academy, Beachwood Recreation, Orange Continuing Ed and Westlake Recreation, kids will have confidence, fun character-building and hands-on learning during these camps.

Learn the tricks of first impressions, become a dining expert and discover the art of a well-written thank-you note. Call 216-2928888

FAIRMOUNT CENTER FOR THE ARTS

Visit fairmountcenter.org/special-events

FALCON CAMP

Recognized throughout the Midwest as Ohio’s premier private camp.

Independently selected “Top Ten Camp in USA” and Ohio’s “Coolest Camp.” Beautiful lakefront setting, talented staff, wide variety of activities and great food. Outstanding opportunity for fun and growth in a safe, healthy environment. ACA accredited. Boys and girls, ages 6-16. Call 800-837-CAMP or visit falconcamp.com - CONTINUED ON PAGE 32 -

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C A M P THE FINE ARTS ASSOCIATION

The Fine Arts Association offers camps, classes and private instruction for all ages and ability levels. With a combination of indoor and outdoor activities, campers are immersed in the arts. Choose between one-week, half-day, and six-week camps. Before and after camp care also is available. Visit fineartsassociation.org

GEAUGA PARK DISTRICT Visit bit.ly/gpdcamps

GILMOUR DAY CAMPS

Camp Gilmour offers Preschool Camp (ages 3-5), Day Camp (ages 5-12), sports and experiential camps such as nature, outdoor adventure, robotics and theater camps. Camps offered June 1-July 31. Enrichment courses available.

Optional complimentary enrichment offered each morning for day campers. Before/after care: 7:15 a.m-6 p.m. Call 440-473-8000 ext.

2267, email summercamp@gilmour.org or visit gilmour.org/summercamp

GIRL SCOUTS OF NORTH EAST OHIO

Summer’s just around the corner, and it’s time to start planning your girl’s next big adventure. The best part? All girls are welcome — no Girl Scout experience necessary. There’s a camp for every girl: Lady Engineers, DIY-namite, Mermaids and Machine Mania, to name a few. Camp like a girl. Visit gsneo.org/camplife

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Guide

GOLDFISH SWIM SCHOOL

Goldfish offers year-round lessons for kids 4 months to age 12 in a family-friendly environment with highly trained instructors, small class sizes and shiver-free 90-degree pools.

During the summer months, Goldfish also offers weeklong Jump Start Clinics where kids make a month’s worth of progress in only one week. Find a Goldfish near you: Cleveland East Side, Fairview Park, Hudson, North Canton and Strongsville (coming soon). Visit goldfishswimschool.com

GRAND RIVER ACADEMY Visit grandriver.org

HATHAWAY BROWN SCHOOL Visit hb.edu/summer

HAWKEN SUMMER PROGRAMS

Hawken Summer Programs offer a variety of activities led by experienced professionals for boys and girls ages 4-18. Camp offerings include day camps, one-week Passport Camps, Innovation Camps, Athletics Camps and Summer Studies. Camps run between June and August. Call 440-423-2940, email summerprograms@hawken.edu or visit summer.hawken.edu

HOLDEN FORESTS & GARDENS SUMMER CAMPS Visit holdenarb.org

ID TECH CAMP

iD Tech is the world leader in STEM education, with 450,000 alumni and over 20 years of experience.

Summer programs for ages 7-19 are held at 150 prestigious campuses including NYU, Caltech and Imperial College London.

Students build in-demand skills for futures in coding, game development, robotics and creative arts. Call 1-888-709-8324 or visit idtech.com

LAKE ERIE NATURE & SCIENCE CENTER

Summer camps at Lake Erie Nature & Science Center offer preschoolers and students of all ages the opportunity to explore and connect with the outdoors, meet new friends, encounter local wildlife and discover the wonders of the night sky in Schuele Planetarium. Registration is open and ongoing. Visit lensc.org

LAKE METROPARKS SUMMER DAY CAMPS

Join Lake Metroparks as it prepares for another fun-filled and adventure-packed summer for kids to explore the natural world. It offers a variety of summer day camp experiences for children ages 4-16. Pre-registration is required to participate in Lake Metroparks Day Camps and extended care offerings. Call 440-3587275 or visit lakemetroparks.com - CONTINUED ON PAGE 34 -

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Guide

LAKE RIDGE ACADEMY

Open to all area students in grades first through 12th, the summer program includes full- and half-day experiences from June 8-July 17. Camps and classes offered include themed discovery camps, fine arts, technology/STEAM, environmental and experiential, academic, athletics and chess. Most programs are taught by experienced Lake Ridge Academy faculty. Call 440-327-1175 ext. 9141 or visit lakeridgeacademy.org/summer

LAKELAND 2020 COLLEGE FOR KIDS

Visit lakelandcc.edu/camps

LAKESHORE DANCE & GYMNASTICS SUMMER CAMPS Visit lakeshoregym.com

SUMMER AT LAUREL

Visit laurelschool.org/summer

LE CHAPERON ROUGE

Le Chaperon Rouge’s Summer Camp is a fun, educational and engaging program. It implements reading, writing, math, computers, Spanish and French into its weekly curriculum.

Additionally, it offers swimming, karate, soccer, dance, gymnastics, stretch-ngrow and other extracurricular activities. Locations include Westlake, Solon, Rocky River, Hudson, Avon, Strongsville, Amherst, Independence, Bath, Brecksville and Shaker Heights.

Visit lechaperonrouge.com

LEARNING ABOUT BUSINESS (LAB)

Visit learningaboutbusiness.org

LORAIN COUNTY METRO PARKS

Offering summer camps for kids of all ages with a variety of interests, including fishing, sports, outdoor adventure, boating, birding and more. Registration for Lorain County residents opens Feb. 21 via phone at 440-458-5121. Register by calling 440-458-5121 or visiting loraincountymetroparks.com

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C A M P MAD SCIENCE AND CRAYOLA IMAGE ARTS ACADEMY

Guide

Visit northeastohio.madscience.org, imagineartsacademy.com

MAGICAL THEATRE

Dedicated to providing memorable theatre experiences for kids, families and schools. Magical Theatre Company’s summer camps will provide children and young people an invigorating, inspiring and challenging adventure as they build both their personal and performance skills.

Drama without trauma! magicaltheatre.org

MAGNIFICAT

Visit magnificaths.org

MANDEL JCC

Mandel JCC J-day Camps & Camp Wise Overnight Camp — summer happens here.

Helping children learn new skills, develop confidence and gain self-esteem, all while having a blast, is what spending a summer at Mandel JCC camps is all about. By the end of summer, campers will have gained independence, developed a host of new interests and made lifelong friendships. Call 216-831-0700 or visit mandeljcc.org/camps or campwise.org

MATHNASIUM

Visit mathnasium.com

MCC TECH KEY KIDS KAMP

MCC Tech Key Kids Kamp has seven one-week tech sessions to choose from. Kids will learn LEGOs, Arduino Board programming, video game design, robotics and 3D printing.

Sessions meet from 9 a.m.-3:30 pm.

Hands-on learning for children ages 7-12 and 13-17. Registration begins on March 31. Call 440-561-0618 or visit mosscard.com/techkeyregistration

NATURE CENTER AT SHAKER LAKES

Visit shakerlakes.org/camp

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OHIO TUITION TRUST

Summer camps can open new worlds for your child. The same is true for a higher education. For more than 30 years, Ohio’s 529 Plan, CollegeAdvantage, has helped families nationwide save tax-free for education after high school. Someday your child is going to college. Someday starts today with collegeadvantage.com

OLD TRAIL SCHOOL

As the nation’s only independent school located in a national park, Old Trail School offers children ages 3-14 an unforgettable summer camp experience. Explore the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, build forts and tunnels and hunt for treasure in the outdoors, and so much more.

Learn more at oldtrail.org/summer

PERSPECTIVES ACADEMY Visit jayberkphd.com/summer

PROGRESS WITH CHESS

Enrich your child’s summer with Summer Chess Camps. Eight camps are offered with full- and half-day options.

Students engage in learning and playing the intriguing game of chess. All skills receive individual attention in small groups, divided by age and level. A healthy mix of interactive lessons and supervised play. Visit progresswithchess.org

RED OAK CAMP Visit redoakcamp.org

SAINT JOSEPH ACADEMY

Your daughter will have a blast at Saint Joseph Academy’s action-packed summer camps. Girls entering grades second through ninth can learn and explore at a variety of camps including STEM, leadership, engineering, the arts, medical, yoga, athletics and much more. Visit sja1890.org

SHAW JCC

Camp JCC offers a traditional summer day camp experience along with a variety of weekly specialty camps for campers entering grades first through eighth grade. Mix and match camp programs, come early and stay late with optional a.m. or p.m. care and enjoy daily swimming. Unmatched facilities include full-size gym, indoor and outdoor pools, and 50-plus acres of open space for your child to explore, learn new skills and build friendships and lasting memories.

Visit shawjcc.org/camp-j

SHIPWRECK CAMP 2020

SUMMER RUFFING IT! 2020

Camp Dates: June 15-July 24.

Art, cooking, music, movement, water play and outdoor playground fill the mornings with child-centered activities guided by Montessori-certified teaching staff. Six-week or three-week half-day programs are available. Half-day program runs 9 a.m.-noon. Three- and six-week options available. Visit ruffingmontessori.net

SUMMER WIND STABLES

Co-ed day camp with horseback riding and swimming.

Instructors have two to three groups each week divided by ability level. SWS has 15 school horses for a wide variety of ability levels. Campers ride twice each day for an hour or more each time. They also have a hands-on ground lesson. Each camper has their own horse for the week, and learns total care of that horse.

Chesterland, Call 440-729-1849, or visit summerwindstables.com, summerwindtack.com - CONTINUED ON PAGE 38 -

This two-week day camp (July 6-17) for ages 12-15 will engage campers in a virtual search for a Lake Erie shipwreck. Campers conduct field research, have an introduction to scuba and snorkeling, read a novel, develop navigation skills, develop a plan, virtually find a wreck and travel to a wreck site. Call 216-368-5075, email kmk21@case.edu or visit gelfand.case.edu

SNAPOLOGY

Snapology’s Discovery Center in Beachwood is an amazing place to build and create with Lego bricks.

Half- and full-day summer camps for ages 4-12. Your camper will have a blast building memories and learning through play with fun Lego themes. Its moved to 23645 Mercantile Road, Suite H. Visit cleveland.snapology.com

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Experience the fun at

Resident and Day Camps

Resident Camps: June 7 - July 31 Day Camps: June 8 - Aug. 14 Campfires Boating Games Shooting Sports Singing Team Building Activities Hiking Crafts Swimming Lifelong Memories Much, Much More!

C A M P

Guide

UNIVERSITY SCHOOL

Summer 2020 programs include many new enrichment camps and academic courses, along with its popular sports clinics and day camps.

Held at Shaker Heights and Hunting Valley campuses, US camps are led by experienced teachers and coaches. It offers camps for preschool-age kids through high school.

Visit us.edu/summer

YMCA OF CENTRAL STARK COUNTY Visit ymcastark.org

7983 S. Wiswell Rd. Windsor, Ohio 44099 440-272-5275 · http://www.4hcampwhitewood.com

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40 | Family Living at Its Best

JOIN

AT THE KIDSHOW MARCH 28-29

Visit these and many more wonderful organizations and businesses!

INTEGRATED SERVICES FOR RECOVERY AND MENTAL HEALTH

Main: 440-255-1700 Crisis Hotline: 440-953-8255 Crossroadshealth.org

Mentor | Painesville | Willoughby | Perry An affiliate of New Directions

WE ARE PROUD TO SPONSOR THE

WHO CAN PROVIDE FOSTER/ADOPTIVE CARE? Geauga Conty Job and Family Services

• CanOH be44024 married or single • Must be at least 21 years Drive, of ageChardon 12480 Ravenwood • Can own or rent 440-285-9141 • Must be financially stable & able to meet your • Must live within 30 miles of household expenses the agency

ENTERTAINMENT

STAGE ALL WEEKEND!

GEAUGA COUNTY JOB AND FAMILY SERVICES 12480 Ravenwood Drive, Chardon, OH 44024

440-285-9141

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BEACHWOOD LIVING Find out why residents love this family-friendly town

GET OUT AND GO Fun Places to Explore

SCHOOL FACTS

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S

FACTS

Beachwood was originally spelled “Beechwood,” like the Beech Tree. A clerical error was made during the City’s incorporation at which time the “e” was swapped for an “a.”

According to the city, the median household income in Beachwood is more than $

66,000

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During the day, the city and its businesses welcome more than 100,000 commuters and

The City of Beachwood covers an area of about six square miles.

—D

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shoppers.

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There are more than 2,900 homes and 2,500 apartment and condominium units throughout the city.

Beachwood is located just 11 miles east of downtown Cleveland and offers easy access to three interstate highways.

Beachwood is also 30 minutes from Cleveland Hopkins Airport.

u n-

In 2015, the average sale price of a home in Beachwood was $277,514

52%

of Beachwood’s population has a college degree or higher and 65 percent of the population are employed in executive, managerial or professional positions.

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More than 2,500 businesses call Beachwood home, ranging from high-tech start-ups to Fortune 500 companies.

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THE ALLAMBY FAMILY AT BEACHWOOD PARK. PHOTO BY ANGELA GARTNER

Education, Parks and Cultural Diversity Draw Families to Beachwood

By Ginny McCabe NORTHEAST OHIO PARENT MAGAZINE SPOKE WITH TWO FAMILIES THAT LIVE, WORK, GO TO SCHOOL AND PLAY IN BEACHWOOD ABOUT DAILY LIFE AND WHAT IT’S LIKE TO RAISE A FAMILY IN THE COMMUNITY.

The Allamby Family Reflects on the Quality of Life One young family, the Allambys, moved to Beachwood about five years ago. Native Clevelanders Kim Allamby and her husband, Carl, brought their two daughters, Kayla, 10, and Kennedy, 8, to the area from a nearby east-side suburb.

Carl works as resident physician at a local hospital, and Kim is a physical therapist at a nearby nursing home.

The couple’s children attend Hilltop Elementary School. Kayla is in fifth grade, plays violin and is involved in diversity club. She enjoys reading, math and science. Kennedy is in third grade and takes piano lessons. Her favorite subject is math.

She is involved in an after school math

program, the diversity club and a coding for girls club. Both girls are involved in gymnastics and junior cheerleading. They also both started taking skiing lessons this year at Boston Mills.

As far as life in Beachwood, Kim Allamby talked about the quality of the education, the value of spending time in the city parks and the importance of cultural diversity.

“What attracted us was the school system,” Allamby says. “There were a lot of things that attracted us, but the schools had to be the biggest draw.”

She shared that the community has low taxes, plenty of business opportunities and recreational activities.

“It feels like this is a community that

draws families with children,” she says.

“I do believe it’s because of the school system. It is somewhat affluent, but still affordable, so you have a variety of homes to choose from. People are upwardly mobile here…So, the focus is education and safety. I think it draws people who want a safe environment to bring up their kids.”

“Then, the other part is everybody is involved,” she adds. “It’s such a small community, at least with school-age children, that it almost feels like a large extended family. Everybody in this area supports the schools. So, if there’s a play your kid is in, or the orchestra, or ‘Honkin Haulin Hands-On Trucks,’ an annual event in the fall, where you can see the service vehicles, you’ll see all the same people there. So,

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just the fact that it’s small and interconnected, it’s like extended family. I really like that about Beachwood.”

At Honkin Haulin Hands-On Trucks, guests can see the fire trucks, ambulances and snow plows up close. Kids can climb inside the trucks and meet the people who drive the trucks.

“Once you get here, you realize what a well-run city it is,” Allamby says. “I didn’t even know about that. I knew Beachwood was well taken care of, because of the streets, homes and things like that, but the services here are amazing, like how fast the snow is removed, or if a tree falls, it’s immediately addressed. Some of those things are appealing, but you don’t always know about those kinds of things until you get settled into a community.”

Embracing Cultural Diversity

Living in Beachwood, Allamby says her family has been exposed to cultural diversity, including people from different ethnic backgrounds and religions.

“When we go to school, it’s really refreshing, because my daughter will say, ‘That’s my friend; she’s from Pakistan,’ or ‘That’s my friend; she’s from China,” Allamby says. There are a lot of kids that come to the school, and they don’t know a lot of English when they first start. Then, my daughters will say, ‘I learned Chinese today from my friend.’ I think that’s exciting…My kids are experiencing different cultures, and so are the other children.”

She says cultural diversity is something that has been celebrated at school. Her family has experienced it at the primary and elementary school levels in an informative, relaxed and fun way.

“It doesn’t feel like it’s any big deal if someone is from another place — it almost feels like the norm,” she says.

“The schools try to help families embrace their diversity.”

The Beachwood PTO hosts the annual, district-wide Bison Feast and Fest event where the students, parents and staff have an opportunity to celebrate a culturally PHOTO COURTESY OF diverse school communiTHE ALLAMBY FAMILY ty “One of my favorite events to go to every year THE GOLOVAN FAMILY is the Bison Feast and Fest,” Allamby says. “Attendees get exposure to different kinds of foods: Russian, Indian and Italian. They also get to experience performances such as traditional Indian dance, and the kids who perform are amazing.”

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Parks, Outdoors & Camps One thing the Allamby family enjoys on the weekends or in their free time is going on a bike ride or a walk to the park. On a typical trip to the park, the family starts just west of Richmond, near the pavilion, and heads east, past Barkwood Dog Park and into Pepper Pike and back.

“We often like to go up there and ride our bikes, or walk. Sometimes, we will walk the paths, because they are paved, smooth paths, and they just added a dog park, Barkwood Dog Park,” Allamby says.

Local families regularly frequent Beachwood City Park East or Beachwood City Park West. Many families also enjoy Preston’s H.O.P.E. Playground Park, which is the first fully accessible playground park of its kind in Northeast Ohio.

Also, there are a lot of annual events the Allamby family doesn’t miss, such as the Beachwood Fall Festival, which is open to all communities, not just Beachwood. Held in Beachwood City Hall Parking Lot, the event features a variety of family-friendly activities, including a pumpkin patch, live entertainment, a ninja obstacle course, games, inflatables and much more.

During the winter months, everyone in the family enjoys skiing together, and Kim and her daughters enjoy belly dancing together as part of a mother-daughter belly dancing group that meets on Friday nights.

Kayla and Kennedy also attend Beachwood Theater Camp in the summer.

“The camps are fantastic,” Allamby says.

“There’s a wide variety and they are right down the street. My kids have attended theater camp for the past several years. The camps are open to neighboring districts, as well.

“I love Beachwood because I feel like I’m putting our family, and especially my children, in the most fertile environment for growth, and exposure to different things,” she adds. “I think that’s the best way I can put it. As a parent, you try to bring your kids up so they can do better than you did. I feel like here, they have a lot of exposure to cultures, they have good exposure to excellent teachers who care, they have a responsive school system, and a responsive local government. There are all kinds of things that play into it. It’s walkable, safe and our neighbors care for each other.”

The Golovans Established Roots in Beachwood

Lisa and Ron Golovan have raised their family in Beachwood.

Ron is a native Clevelander. The couple knew they wanted to stay in the Cleveland area and moved to Beachwood in 1992.

“We moved specifically for the schools,” Lisa Golovan says. “We knew we wanted to send our children to a public school, if possible. We only had one child at the time. My oldest, Samantha, was 1 year old, and I was pregnant with my second child, and that’s when we moved to Beachwood.”

The family has lived in the same home for 28 years. At one point, the couple looked at the possibility of moving within Beachwood, but they decided to stay in the same place.

“We wanted to stay put in the schools, because the girls were happy and everything was going well,” Golovan says.

Three of the couple’s four children – Samantha, 28, Chase, 27, and Isabelle, 25 – have graduated from the Beachwood City School District. Their son Eric is a senior this year at Beachwood High

School. He has been involved in cross country, choir, theater and National Honor Society. He will graduate in 2020 and currently is in the process of applying to colleges.

“As our family grew, one of the reasons we stayed in our home, even though it was a little tight, is because we didn’t want to pull our kids out of the school,” she says. They were settled, they were happy, and we felt strongly that they were getting a good education in Beachwood.”

Beachwood City School District is a small, close-knit school district, she says. Each of the Golovan children were involved in different activities at school.

Samantha was involved in sports, was a member of the cross-country team and played softball. All three girls played softball.

Chase was involved with track and she played tennis for Beachwood. She also was involved in Excel TECC and part of the culinary program at Beachwood.

“She loved that it was housed at Beachwood, so she was able to be in Beachwood for part of the day, and then she also participated in the culinary program,” says Golovan.

Isabelle also played girls lacrosse. She was a cheerleader and a member of the drill team.

“Eric is also an Excel TECC, and he is in the Performing Arts Academy,” Golovan says. “He is at Beachwood half a day, and he goes to Chagrin Falls for the Performing Arts. So, he’s been more of our arts kid, compared to the other children.”

For about 15 years, when the girls were at Bryden Elementary School, Lisa worked in the office at Bryden and at Hilltop Elementary School. She currently holds another full-time job outside of the school district, but she remains on the substitute teachers list.

“I worked in the office for many years, and served as a substitute teacher at Beachwood Schools,” she says. “I was also very involved as a room parent. Working in the schools, I was able to connect with a lot of the staff. It’s a small school, so I got to know a lot of the families that were going through the schools at the time, but being such a small district and having such high standards, academically, socially, and in sports, I think that you’re able to communicate with who you need

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to – to help your kids become successful.”

If one child is having an issue, in some aspect, whether it’s emotionally, or academically, she says, it’s easy to connect with the right people, who can help your child become successful.

“If families are moving into the district with children, I would suggest joining PTO immediately, and becoming involved in the Parent Teacher Organization,” Golovan says. “There are a lot of different committees and ways to get involved with your child.

From participating in different programs, or being involved in the classroom. It’s also a great way to meet other parents.”

Conveniences for Residents “As far as being a resident, I think our services are phenomenal, from our streets to our garbage pick-up,” Golovan says. “It’s convenient, and we have easy access to so many things. From where we live, we can walk to the mall, or the grocery store, in many different directions, so that’s one of the things we love about being in this neighborhood is the convenience.”

It’s easy to get to the highways. The Golovans also like to walk, and it’s about a 10-to-15-minute walk to the mall, or a three-minute drive. Beachwood also is home to a shopping destination, Beachwood Place.

“My husband works right past downtown, in Ohio City, so it’s easy access for him to get to work,” she says. “We are accessible to freeways, the mall, the grocery store, and we also like the lower taxes. Because we have a lot of industry in Beachwood, our taxes are lower than some of the other communities nearby.

And, the schools have been well-funded because of that. That’s something that has kept our schools strong, along with an excellent staff and parents that are very involved.”

Golovan says for professionals and businesspeople moving into the community, the Beachwood Chamber of Commerce is a wonderful way to network. The chamber hosts a number of events, including monthly luncheons, “Networking After Five” and “Beachwood Women’s Connection,” among others.

Additionally, the Beachwood Branch of the Cuyahoga County Public Library has many different programs for students, families and senior citizens.

They host guest speakers and an array of ongoing programming.

In summer months, many Beachwood residents gather at the Beachwood Family Aquatic Center. The Golovans recently have enjoyed spending time at the new Barkwood Dog Park.

“All around, there are high standards and families that care about their kids and their families…We just feel like everyone has high standards in Beachwood, and that’s why we’ve stayed all of these years,” Golovan says.

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A day in

Beachwood

By Angela Gartner

W

hile the interstates make it easy to travel around Northeast Ohio, the cityscapes in the east, south and west are uniquely different no matter where you go. The city of Beachwood is no exception to the rule. Its diverse, culturally rich places are perfect for families to explore.

So how do you spend the day in Beachwood?

Breakfast is a great way to start! Try The Nervous Dog Coffee Bar (La Place, 2101 Richmond Road, nervousdog.com). Settle in with the family in a cushy booth seat or grab a table. This is a quick spot that provides a more homey feel with fun cold or hot coffee blends and easy grab-and-go eats, vegetarian options and more. Get the kids a hot cocoa, made with dark chocolate, cocoa powder and steamed milk.

If you are looking for a historic place for breakfast, go to the first Yours Truly Restaurant (25300 Chagrin Blvd., ytr.com/beachwood) for a family sit-down meal. It has kids’ and gluten-free options.

The restaurant doesn’t feel like a chain because of its quaint diner feel.

If you are looking for places to help kids get educated about the past, there are some interesting cultural sites in the city.

This summer is the 2020 Olympic games, which will be held in Toyko. The events and athletes will be celebrated on the world-stage; however, that wasn’t the case for the 1972 Summer Olympic Games in Munich, Germany. A tragedy occured in which 11 Israeli athletes were taken hostage in the Olympic Village by terrorists and then murdered. David Berger, a weightlifting competitor and a Shaker Heights native who emigrated to Israel, was one of those killed. You can visit the The David Berger Memorial at the Mandel Jewish Community Center (26001 S. Woodland mandeljcc.org).

While you are at Mandel JCC, if you want the kids to have some playtime, too, Preston’s H.O.P.E. Playground Park is right on the property. The all-abilities playground provides accessible, family-friendly equipment and is free to the public (prestonshope.com).

MALTZ MUSEUM OF JEWISH HERITAGE PHOTO BY ANGELA GARTNER KIDS MENU AT BOMBA TACO + BAR

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PRESTON’S H.O.P.E

“Beachwood is a wonderful place to raise a family. I know this from experience because I grew up here and my wife and I raised our own children here. Between the excellent schools, municipal services, and community resources, a move to Beachwood is a great move for your family’s future.”

— Mayor Martin Horwitz

Not too far from the playground is Maltz Museum of Jewish Heritage (2929 Richmond Road, maltzmuseum.org). In addition to its exhibits that help people understand Jewish history, the museum also has an extensive calendar of events for families. In the summer, it offers kids hands-on sensory experiences.

Families also like spending their time together shopping — and Beachwood Place (26300 Cedar Road, (beachwood place.com) provides offerings for both kids and their parents.

“Beachwood Place is a great place for families,” says Beachwood Place General Manager Heidi Yanok. “Not only do we offer hands-on learning opportunities for

kids at retailers like Microsoft and The LEGO Store, but we also host free, family-friendly events like movie nights and performances that are open to the entire community. Did we also mention that we have the only Nordstrom and Saks Fifth Avenue in the region for moms?”

Also, coming soon to Beachwood Place is H&M Home, which offers modern interior design and decorations; Carters, a brand of children’s clothing, gifts and accessories; Journeys Kidz, a youth shoes, apparel and accessories brand from infant to tweens; and new food court option Baja Bistro Tex-Mex Grille, specializing in fresh Mexican and Southwestern food.

La Place at Beachwood Place (2101

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THE LEGO STORE BEACHWOOD PLACE PHOTO COURTESY OF BROOKFIELD PROPERTIES

Looking for medical services in Beachwood?

University Hospitals Ahuja Medical Center 3999 Richmond Rd, Beachwood, 216-593-5500, uhhospitals.org Akron Children's Hospital Pediatric Offices 3733 Park East Drive, Suite 230, Beachwood, 216-896-0351, akronchildrens.org Cleveland Clinic Beachwood Family Health and Surgery Center (Urgent Care) 26900 Cedar Rd. Beachwood, 216-839-3000, clevelandclinic.org MetroHealth Beachwood Health Center (Urgent Care) 3609 Park East Drive North, Building - Floor 3, Beachwood, 216-957-9959, metrohealth.org Lake Health Beachwood Medical Center 25501 Chagrin Boulevard, Beachwood, 216-545-4800 lakehealth.org

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Richmond Road, beachwoodplace. com/en/visit/la-place), which is a plaza right on the mall’s property, also offers unique shopping and dining, such as the only The Container Store in Northeast Ohio.

If you and your kids are getting hungry for lunch or dinner — or if you are planning a date night soon — La Place is a perfect spot for a sitdown meal or quick ice cream fix.

You can try Bomba Taco + Bar has a kids’ menu and gluten-free offerings.

You also can wake up late on Saturday and Sunday and from 11 a.m-3 p.m. order from the brunch menu — and maybe add a mimosa (the kids have their own brunch options, too). For dinner or lunch, craft your own guacamole or get a sharable. Also, your Picky eaters will have kids’ staples like chicken tenders, but the menu offers plenty of other options for them to try.

At La Place, there are other family-friendly eats and treats such as Lindey’s Lake House (lindeyslake house.com) and Mitchell’s Ice Cream (mitchellshomemade.com/shops) If you are hoping to drop off the kids at a sitter to get some steak and/or seafood, Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse (26300 Chagrin Blvd., hydeparkrestaurants.com) and Blu (3355 Richmond Road, blutherestau rant.com) are both easily accessible from Chagrin Boulevard & I-271.

Did you know there is a comedy club in Beachwood? Bogey’s Comedy Club at The Embassy Suites Hotel (3775 Park East Drive, bogeyscom edyclub.com) is a reasonably priced way to have some laughs from local and national comedians on a fun parents’ night out. Take in dinner and a show in one location by dining at Embassy Suites’ Park East Grill, which won a 2013 “Taste of Beachwood People’s Choice Award” from the Beachwood Chamber of Commerce.

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By Denise Koeth

hen it comes to family-friendly fun, Beachwood has plenty to offer. The city is culturally rich and boasts a wide variety of parks and amenities, as well as museums, arts experiences and a vibrant library. Check the list below to help plan your family’s visit.

BARKWOOD DOG PARK

Located at City Park East, Barkwood is available from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily to Beachwood residents and their dogs via annual registration and keyfob. As the only 100% synthetic turf dog park in Ohio, Barkwood prevents muddy paws and helps dogs stay clean while safely stretching their legs. Split into two sections — one for small dogs that are less than 30 pounds and one for larger dogs — the roughly half-acre dog park also offers water fountains for both human and canine visitors. beachwoodohio.com

BEACHWOOD ARTS COUNCIL

The council’s goal — to encourage the development and appreciation of the visual and performing arts and provide access to quality art reflecting the diversity of Beachwood and Northeast Ohio — is achieved through various events and shows that take place at the Beachwood Community Center, where an art gallery is free and open to the public daily. BAC hosts the Beachwood K-12 Art Show and the Ileen Kelner Juried High School Art Show, as well as sponsoring a DiversityFEST featuring the artwork, food, music and dance of local cultural groups. beachwoodartscouncil. org

BEACHWOOD BRANCH OF THE CUYAHOGA COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY

As one of 27 CCPL locations, the Beachwood Branch has access to the lending library — including books, digital materials, music, movies, devices, toys and much more — of one of the nation’s top-rated public library systems. Families can participate in a variety of activities and programs in the library’s Debra Ann November Children’s Area, including storytimes in Hebrew and Chinese, after-school homework mentoring, teen book clubs, art exploration programs for homeschool students, family movie nights and more. cuyahogalibrary.org

BEACHWOOD FAMILY AQUATIC CENTER

The 99,000-square-foot facility welcomes Beachwood residents, employees and their guests, and includes four water slides, a current channel, diving boards, splash pads, a zero depth entry, adult relaxation area, lap lanes, a tot pool, a concession stand and more. Available lessons include public swimming lessons, synchronized swimming and a diving program. The aquatic center also is home to summertime concerts, which are free and open to the public, on Tuesday nights. beachwoodohio.com

BEACHWOOD CITY PLAYGROUND

Located adjacent to the Family Aquatic Center, this public playground offers multiple structures for children of varying ages, as well as a sand pit, swings and plenty of space to run and play. There’s also picnic tables, benches and shade trees for when families need to rest and refuel. beachwoodohio.com

BEACHWOOD PLACE

Enjoy a retail experience unlike any other in the Cleveland area at this massive indoor shopping mall, which offers more than 120 retail stores and 22 restaurants to fit every budget, from kid-friendly snacks to full-service meals. Kids love the games in Center Court, including air hockey and giant Connect Four, and parents appreciate amenities like family restrooms and a nursing lounge. Special entertainment and events take place throughout the year. beachwoodplace.com

CITY PARK EAST & WEST

Located in the city’s center at Shaker Boulevard and Richmond Road, Beachwood City Park West and East offer plenty of green space to enjoy nature.

City Park West is home to 1.6 miles of trails, including hard surface, multi-purpose trails for bicycling, walking, running and skating; and gravel trails for hiking. It also features a sledding hill, two parking areas and an open-air shelter. City Park East features one mile of paved trails,

benches, a parking area and the recently opened Barkwood Dog Park. beachwoodohio.com

MANDEL JCC

Mandel JCC offers a new stateof-the-art fitness center and gym with swimming, preschool programs, camps and more. Fitness-focused visitors value the certified personal trainers, basketball and racquetball courts, indoor track and more than 80 weekly group fitness classes.

Families with kids in tow love the indoor and outdoor pools, Red Cross-certified swim instruction, plus special programming like family-focused events, after school care, childcare and preschool, Playmakers Youth Theatre, J-Day camps and Camp Wise overnight camp, and film and book festivals. mandeljcc.org

PRESTON’S H.O.P.E.

This mega-playground offers 60,000 square feet of fun for children of all ages and abilities, created with inspiration from the friends and family of a little boy born with spinal muscular atrophy. Located at the Mandel JCC, Preston’s H.O.P.E. offers several play areas, including Imagination Village, with make-believe houses that are connected by a raised walkway; Play Theatre; and Sand Area, as well as play areas with swings, tunnels and slides. prestonshope.com

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Schools: Get to Know

By Dahlia Fisher Beachwood City Schools: Here are some facts from beachwoodschools.org Enrollment: 1,700 students

Average Class Size: 125 students (per grade) Pupil/Teacher Ratio: 12:1

Faculty: 161 certificated teachers, 85 percent with master’s degrees and/or higher

“I’m impressed with the cutting-edge opportunities available to the students, both in academics and extracurricular activities.”

– Ann Epstein, Beachwood City Schools parent

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Average Teaching Experience: 12.4 years (in Beachwood) Counseling Service: K-12

Library Program: Pre-K-12

Advanced Placement:

28 AP courses; 2018 91 AP Scholars in 2019 27 National AP Scholars 47 AP Scholars with Distinction 17 AP Scholars with Honor 19 AP Scholars Athletics: 23 varsity sports; 82 percent of high school and middle school students play one or more sports; 88 percent maintain a B average or better.

Fine Arts: Nationally recognized program includes elementary, middle school and high school choirs; orchestra and symphonic bands; comprehensive arts curriculum; and dramatic and musical productions.

Special Programs:

• University Hospitals - Beachwood Medical Academy - partnership with UH Hospital System

• Design & Innovation Program - Partnership with Cleveland State University’s Washkewicz College of Engineering • High school honors program (Grades 9-12); 28

• Advanced Placement courses; 21 honors classes at the high school leve; three college dual-enrollment classes

FAIRMOUNT EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER Noteworthy: This private, district-sponsored learning center offers school-year education and summer preschool camp.

Open to Beachwood residents and non-residents. There is a fee to attend.

MORE TO KNOW IN OR NEAR BEACHWOOD

PRIVATE SCHOOLS in Beachwood or in neighboring communities :

9 academic tutoring centers 8 dance and gymnastics studios

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4 venues for kids’ cooking classes 3 karate or taekwondo studios 2 community centers with pools

• Joseph and Florence Mandel Jewish Day School, Beachwood “Cleveland’s only Jewish community day school” serving toddlers through grade 8, which has a mission to develop ethical leadership, confident critical thinking and a lifelong love of learning. mandeljds.org • Fuchs Mizrachi School, Beachwood

Pre-K–12 private Modern Orthodox Jewish, co-educational college-preparatory day school. fuchsmizrachi.org • The Beatrice J. Stone Yavne High School, Beachwood State-chartered, non-public school for girls, grades 7-12, offering a dual program of Judaic and General Studies. hac1.org • Gross Schechter Day School, Pepper Pike Private, co-ed Jewish day school located in Pepper Pike, begins in infant care and continues through grade 8. grossschechter.org

• Le Chaperon Rouge, Shaker Heights Infant care, preschool, K-5, private elementary with gifted student program with locations across Northeast Ohio. lechaperonrouge.com • Beaumont School, Cleveland Heights Private, all-girls, International Baccalaureate, Catholic school located in Cleveland Heights. beaumontschool.org • The Lillian and Betty Ratner Montessori School, Pepper Pike Private, co-ed Montessori school in Pepper Pike serving toddlers through grade 8. theratnerschool.org

• University School, Shaker Heights Private school for boys, junior kindergarten to grade 8, on campuses in two locations: Shaker Heights (Junior-K -grade 8) and Hunting Valley (grades 9-12). us.edu • Hawken School, Lyndhurst Hawken School is a coeducational private day school with campuses in Gates Mills (grades 9 – 12), Lyndhurst (preschool – grade 8), Cleveland’s west side (preschool – grade 8), and an urban extension center in University Circle. hawken.edu • Hathaway Brown, Shaker Heights All-girls private school in Shaker Heights and Ohio’s oldest continuously operating college preparatory school for girls, offering early childhood programs, primary school, middle school and upper school. hb.edu

• Laurel School, Shaker Heights Private school for girls, pre-K through grade 12, operates on two campuses; the Lyman Campus in Shaker Heights and the Butler Campus in Novelty. laurelschool.org • Julie Billiart Schools, Lyndhurst A network of schools, with campuses in Lyndhurst and Akron, embracing and celebrating the learning differences of children in grades K-8. juliebilliartschool.org

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Directory

THE ASTER APARTMENTS

CITY OF BEACHWOOD

The Aster is the new standard in upscale living, featuring a sophisticated and unique community that offers the opportunity for upscale living in Beachwood. You’re sure to feel right at home in one of the gorgeous apartments, each of which comes with the amenities that today’s residents have come to expect from an exclusive contemporary residence. Each apartment offers a feel that is both modern and timeless, providing residents with the best of luxury living in a comfortable and intimate setting. 3600 E. Park Drive, Beachwood, 216-539-1162, theasterapts.com

Recently named one of America’s 50 best cities to live, Beachwood welcomes new residents and visitors. Enjoy a variety of shopping, dining and healthcare options.

Beachwood City School District received an A grade from the State of Ohio. facebook. com/beachwoodoh, twitter.com/ beachwoodoh and beachwoodohio.com

BOMBA TACO + BAR

Bomba Taco + Bar is a premium-casual taco concept offering guests a variety of chef-driven tacos and bowls, in an exciting, stylish environment that is warm and welcoming. Bomba offers lunch, dinner, weekend brunch, happy hour, children’s menus, and has an energetic and fun bar. Visit all Northeast Ohio locations. bombatacos.com

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BEACHWOOD CITY SCHOOLS

Beachwood City Schools is one of Ohio’s finest districts.

It strives to develop students who are creative, altruistic and reflective seekers of knowledge. Its offerings match those of larger schools, while simultaneously being relatively small in size, which is why it’s compared to the finest private schools in the area. beachwoodschools.org

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B e a c hwo o d BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HOMESERVICES PROFESSIONAL REALTY

Serving the eastern suburbs as a Realtor with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Professional Realty, Sharon Friedman caters to clients from first-time buyers to seniors. Her 40-year-plus career gives her an expert’s insight into the neighborhoods and market. “I pride myself on knowing the area intimately,” she says.

“My clients have brought me to where I am today, and I am very grateful for that.” sfriedman@bhhspro.com, 216-338-3233 or sharonfriedmanhomes.com

CLEVELAND HEARING & SPEECH CENTER

Cleveland Hearing & Speech Center is the premier provider of hearing, speech-language and deaf services for children and adults. It offers evaluations, individual and group therapy options, and programs and services for those who struggle to communicate. Four convenient locations: University Circle, Broadview Heights, Westlake and the new Lyndhurst office at 5084 Mayfield Road. chsc.org

- SPONSORED CONTENT -

Sing into Spring!

There’s a silent auction and 50/50 Raffle for grown-up!

Sing into Spring benefits the Mandel Jewish Community Center’s Early Childhood Program by providing support for continuing education

programs for our staff to ensure that we provide the best experience for the children and families that participate in our programs. Make some new friends at Sing into Spring.

Learn more at mandeljcc.org

C

alling all kids, parents and grandparents!

Join the Mandel Jewish Community Center March 15 for Sing into Spring a fun-filled morning featuring kid’s activities, dancing, face painting, carnival games, light refreshments and more!

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Beachwood

Business Directory

CUTS N CURLS

Cuts N Curls is a unique adult and children’s hair salon, toy boutique and party place, all wrapped up into one very neat package. The mission at Cuts N Curls is to take the stress out of getting your and your child’s hair cut in a safe and worry-free environment. It provides a positive and enjoyable experience where children and their parents can kick back and relax. Shop in the retail store or play the one-of-kind Skee ball or basketball while you or your child get a haircut. 6025 Kruse Drive, Solon, 440-542-1750, cutsncurls.net

FROMOVITZ CHABAD CENTER

Chef-Driven Tacos, Build-Your-Own Guac, Snacks, Rice Bowls, Salads + More • HAPPY HOUR • Monday-Friday from 3-6:30PM • KIDS EAT FREE • Every Tuesday from 4PM-Close

2101 Richmond Rd. Beachwood, OH 44122 216.755.5907 BombaTacos.com

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Fromovitz Chabad Center, led by Rabbi Moshe Gancz, Add Rabbi Moshe and Rivky Gancz of Beachwood, provides a welcoming and non-judgmental environment to Jews of all backgrounds. Through a variety of weekly classes, services, holiday programs and children’s programming, it offers Jewish education on all levels. 23711 Chagrin Blvd., Beachwood, 216-647-4884

THE GATHERING PLACE

The Gathering Place is a cancer support center providing free programs and services to individuals and families throughout Northeast Ohio coping with a cancer diagnosis. The programs help children, teens and adults cope with the emotional, social, physical and spiritual impact of cancer. touchedbycancer.org

FAIRMOUNT EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER

Fairmount Early Childhood Center creates an environment where learning is fun and play is important.

Hands-on learning activities stimulate and challenge the students to encourage social, emotional, intellectual and physical growth. Fairmount offers programs for children ages 3-5 years. Half-day, all-day and extended day programs are available.

24601 Fairmount Blvd., Beachwood, 216-464-2600, beachwoodschools.org/fairmount

HW FINANCIAL ADVISORS HW Financial Advisors is an independent, fee-based comprehensive wealth management firm. For more than 20 years, the mission has been to bring clarity and confidence to clients’ lives by achieving the highest standard in client service and comprehensive wealth management. hwfa.com

JEWISH FEDERATION OF CLEVELAND

PJ Library — through the Jewish Federation of Cleveland — provides free Jewish-themed books each month to children ages six months to 8 years. Leah Taylor, ltaylor@jcfcleve.org or 216-593-2853 jewishcleveland.org/pjlibrary

THE LILLIAN AND BETTY RATNER MONTESSORI SCHOOL The Lillian and Betty

Ratner Montessori School

Curious. Creative. Caring.

Ratner Montessori offers programs for students, age 18 months through eighth grade, that meet the needs of individual learners in a welcoming, caring, global community. Ratner empowers students to find joy in learning and to become their best selves. The school encourages you to visit and experience Ratner’s unique educational environment first-hand. 27575 Shaker Blvd., Pepper Pike, 216-464-0033, theratnerschool.org

THE DAVID BERGER MEMORIAL AT THE MANDEL JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER, MANDELJCC.ORG

LOKAL REAL ESTATE COMPANY

Jennifer is a full-time agent focusing on residential real estate. At the age of 19, Jennifer sold her first house. She works with buyers, sellers and investors and especially enjoys working with first time home buyers. Jennifer is a Beachwood resident of more than 20 years and is the proud mother of two Beachwood High School graduates — Bennett, 2016, and Julia, 2019. 216-337-0107

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LULLABY EARTH BREEZE 2-STAGE CRIB MATTRESS This crib mattress provides maximum breathability (per Intertek test), using a removable and washable pad. It has no seam binding, making it easy to clean at the edges and completely hygienic. $259, birth to 5 years, lullabyearth.com

Gear for You and

BABY

WANT TO KNOW WHAT’S NEW IN THE MARKET? FIND SOME FIELD-TESTED BUYS FOR PARENTS, BABIES AND TODDLERS

T

By Elena Epstein, director of the National Parenting Product Awards

rying to make sense of the latest baby products? Whether you’re expecting your first, second or maybe more, here are the 2020 National Parenting Product Awards winners to help you find the best products for parents, babies and toddlers.

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“BUMPIN’: THE MODERN GUIDE TO PREGNANCY” Tech investor and new mom Leslie Schrock offers a thoroughly modern guide to pregnancy — from the preparations of “trimester zero” to the challenges of the newborn months.

With the frank, funny warmth of a trusted friend, she delves into everything from in vitro fertilization and prenatal testing to lactation consultants, debunking pregnancy myths and citing the latest science to help you make the best decisions every step of the way — for both you and your baby. $16.99

MAEBAND Mom-invented Maeband is designed to encourage pregnant women to keep wearing and doing what they love while pregnant. Gone are the days of pregnancy restrictions. The Maeband provides a stylish, functional and comfortable way to transform your regular jeans into maternity jeans by covering up the unbuttoned area and adding stretch to your waistband. It’s also perfect for postpartum. $21.95, maeband.com

ZUTANO BOOTIES Soft, comfy and designed to stay on even the most wiggly little feet. Zutano booties feature their signature twosnap secure fit that helps the booties stay on while allowing them to shape well to the contours of your baby’s foot.

Designed for durability, these booties maintain their shape and feel after extended wash and wear. Available in cozy fleece and organic cotton. $21-25, birth to 24 months, zutano.com

ORGANIC BREATHABLE 2-STAGE CRIB MATTRESS The Organic Breathable 2-Stage Crib Mattress features a 3D mesh surface, 252 coil innerspring support and organic cotton fabric and filling certified by Gots & Greenguard for non-toxic sleep.

The luxurious quilted surface layer can be removed and is machine washable. Does not contain flame retardants, latex, PU Foam, soy, vinyl/PVC, phthalates, formaldehyde, GMOs or glues/ adhesives. $349, birth to 5 years, naturepedic.com/organic-breathable-baby-crib-mattress-buy

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POTTY TRAINING FIX Potty Training Fix is an easy-tofollow, fool-proof potty training method for toddlers in one kit, including a travel potty. $49, ages 1 to 4 years pottytrainingfix.com

KIDS N’ SUCH DIAPER CADDY ORGANIZER The Kids N’ Such Diaper Caddy Organizer is stylish with a large capacity (15”x12”x7”) to hold everything you need. Made with a premium canvas that’s easy to clean, it features sturdy dividers so your baby’s essentials stay protected inside. $19.99, birth to 4 years, kidsnsuch. com

NATUREBOND SILICONE BREAST PUMP WITH SILICONE STOPPER AND STRAP The NatureBond Silicone Breast Pump is designed to collect milk that leaks out of the unused breast while breastfeeding through natural suction.

Mothers can customize suction force according to their individual comfort level by squeezing the pump body at various positions. It is made of BPAfree and FDA-approved food-grade silicone and is lab tested by Bureau Veritas. The package includes a velvet pouch, dust coverlid and a tight-fitting stopper and strap to prevent spilt milk. $16.99, naturebondglobal.com/products/naturebond-silicone-breast-pump

PERSONALIZED BOTTLE BANDS Never lose track of another bottle or cup again. Personalized Bottle Bands from Mabel’s Labels are a great way to quickly label your kid’s bottles, sippy cups and snack containers because they’re easy to put on and can be reused endlessly. These silicone bottle name bands are designed to stretch and fit snugly over most drinkware and you can swap them on and off items as many times as needed. They’re easy to grip, attention grabbing and available in four beautiful colors. Bottle Bands are also dishwasher-, microwave- and sterilizer-safe, so once they’re on you won’t have to worry about them breaking or falling off. $12.99, mabelslabels.com/en_US/personalized-bottle-bands.html

JOOLZ DAY³ The Joolz Day³’s premium design and features cleverly blend style and functionality. Suitable from birth, it comes with a bassinet and seat to grow with your child. Bassinet ventilation allows a flow of fresh air, while the adjustable footrest provides extra support for your growing child. The seat at table height can be used as a highchair, and thanks to the compact fold, the Joolz Day³ can easily be stored upright in the smallest of spaces. $999, birth to 50 lbs., us.joolz.com/ model/joolz-day3

For more product reviews and gift ideas, visit nappaawards.com

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PREGNANCY & BABY

Calendar MONDAYS

Parent Infant Classes. Learn the benefits of observing your baby in an intentional way. Participants will learn how to recognize stages of child development and how to best stimulate a child’s growing brain. 8:30-10 a.m. Hudson Montessori School, 7545 Darrow Road, 330-650-0424, hudsonmontessori.org

MONDAYS, WEDNESDAYS & FRIDAYS

Stroller Strides. Functional, total-body conditioning workout designed for moms with kids in tow. Beginning 4/1.

9-10:30 a.m. Market Square at Crocker Park, 239 Market St., Westlake, crockerpark.com

WEDNESDAYS

Shalom Baby. Gross Schechter Day School and Alexandria School for Nannies’ Founder and Executive Director, Carolyn Stulberg, welcome expectant parents to participate in Shalom Baby.

Additional experts, including pediatricians, day care providers, baby gear retailers, rabbis and mohels will join us to help you get the most of the course.

Wednesdays at 7p.m. Register at grossschechter.org/shalom-baby

3/7

Boot Camp for New Dads. New fathers learn how to prepare for the important role they will play with their new baby and family. 9 a.m.-noon. Hillcrest Hospital, North Campus, 6777 Mayfield Road, Mayfield Hts., events.clevelandclinic.org

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3/11, 18 & 25

Childbirth Preparation. The class provides information on labor and delivery, breathing and relaxation, comfort measures, medications, C-section and postpartum. 6:30-9 p.m. TriPoint Physician Pavilion, 7580 Auburn Road, Concord Twp., lakehealth.org

3/18

Ask a Doula! Find out more about what doulas do to assist pregnancy and labor, and ask any questions that you may have about the profession or birth. 6:30-7:30 p.m. Domonkas Branch Library, 4125 E. Lake Road, Sheffield Lake, 440-949-7410, lorainpubliclibrary.org

3/19

Art Babes. Park the stroller and cozy up in our circle of babies for sensory play, face-to-face bouncy rhymes and social games to inspire baby’s curiosity and build first relationships. 10-11:30 a.m.

Akron Art Museum, 1 S. High St., 330376-9185, akronartmuseum.org

3/21

Kiddie Kloset. Gently used baby items, maternity clothes, toys and games, baby and kid furniture and more. 8 a.m.-noon. Westlake High School, 27830 Hilliard Blvd., Westlake. wecpta.org/ kiddiekloset

events Baby Cuddle Club. Baby Cuddles is a special class for our tiniest babies and their adult cuddlers. Enjoy lap bounces, movement songs and instrument play.

9:15 a.m. Avon Lake Public Library, 32649 Electric Blvd., 440-933-8128, alpl.org

3/22 & 29

Birth Boot Camp. Designed for couples who desire the optimal birth experience. Participants will gain valuable information, insights, tools and exceptional communication skills to prepare for labor and birth. 1-5:30 p.m.

The Womb Wellness Center, 6200 SOM Center Road A-24, Solon, thewombwellnesscenter.com

3/23 & 24

Breastfeeding Preparation. This class is for you and your partner to prepare to breastfeed your newborn with confidence. 6:30-9 p.m. Fairview Hospital Wellness Center, 3035 Wooster Road, Rocky River, events.clevelandclinic.org

3/28

New Parent Resource Fair. New parents and caregivers can meet local organizations that offer resources to help you care for your children. 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Medina County District Library, 210 S. Broadway St., 330-725-0588, mcdl.info Big Brothers/Big Sisters-To-Be. This sibling class helps older children develop positive acceptance toward the new baby. 1:30 p.m. UH Cleveland Medical Center, 11100 Euclid Ave., uhhospitals.org

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b A b y food blends You made the choice to create homemade baby food, here's how to get started

BY JEN PICCIANO

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As the saying goes, “You are what you eat.”

That goes for all of us, no matter how young or how tiny. So why not give your baby the very best — and save some money while you’re at it?

Since I like to show love with food, I made the choice to make all my own baby food for my three daughters.

Now, that may sound like a serious commitment and an overwhelming undertaking; however, trust me — it’s not. And it’s not an “all-or-nothing” choice.

Much like breastfeeding, where many mothers feed their infants a combination of breast milk and formula to make up for production limitations, you can supplement with store-bought baby food if you need to.

I don’t know about you, but I don’t have the resources or time to ensure that every morsel that goes into my kids’ mouths is healthy and/or organic. I do the best I can. And that’s all your baby expects of you. If you get a couple of meals a week made from scratch, that’s great. If you are able to feed your baby exclusively homemade baby food, even better. You’ll save money, reduce disposable packaging and food waste and know exactly what is going into your child’s food. I personally believe that it leads to healthier kids who get sick less and who are not picky eaters as they grow.

Start with a few helpful tools. You’ve got to have a great blender. I’m partial to my Vitamix, but if you have a different one that works for you, go with it.

You also can use a food mill, but I found those to be cumbersome.

Then, find yourself a good resource for reliable produce, preferably organic. I know there can be some sticker shock with organic produce, but a little goes a long way with babies. One organic sweet potato can provide several days’ worth of meals (as compared to about a dollar a serving with prepackaged baby food). Resources like Perfectly Imperfect Produce make fantastic use of “ugly” yet healthy and edible fruits and veggies (with some organic options) that would otherwise be thrown out. Bonus: they’ll deliver, which is great for those of you who want to avoid dragging your infant out into the cold to shop.

Now it’s time to experiment. Start simple with a single ingredient to make sure your child likes the flavor before you “mass produce” anything — and to identify any potential aversions or allergies. Then you can start combining fruits and vegetables.

Bake, roast, steam or microwave the produce until it’s tender and easy to blend. When your baby is first beginning solids, make sure to strain the puree to prevent any chunks of unblended pieces that might be a choking hazard.

Eventually, you can start adding grains and proteins like chicken, rice, quinoa, oats, lentils or ground beef, for example. To get some ideas, I did a little bit of recon and made note of food and flavor combinations sold by commercial baby food manufacturers when I went to the grocery store. I also got cookbooks out from the library to start a list of blends to try.

Where to start? Pretty much every kid likes applesauce, right? It makes a great first food. To give it some more nutrients, I add carrots. Utilize your slow cooker here. Rough chop some apples and carrots. Add a little water and a pinch of cinnamon and some brown sugar if you want. Once the apples and carrots are fork tender, transfer to your blender and add water, if necessary, to thin it out.

After you’ve made your baby food, it’s time to store it. I like freezing it in portion sizes with silicone ice cube trays, then popping them out into freezer safe bags (making sure to label the contents and date).

For feeding on the go, I love the Baby Brezza reusable food pouches.

They’re easy to load and easy to wash. Fresh baby food is good for about four days. Frozen will be good for several months.

starter blends Protein Packed Puree Sweet Potato & Chickpea INGREDIENTS: 1 can (15 oz.) chickpeas, with liquid 1 medium-large sweet potato, baked, skin on METHOD: •Add the entire can of chickpeas, with liquid, to your blender.

•Quarter the potato and add to the container.

•Blend on high until smooth (add water, formula or breast milk to thin texture, if necessary).

•Optional: add cooked chicken for more texture and protein when your child is ready.

Super Food Puree Spinach, Kale & Sweet Pea INGREDIENTS: 1 cup cooked spinach (roughly 5 oz. before steaming) 1 cup cooked kale (roughly 5 oz. before steaming) 1 cup frozen sweet peas, steamed ½ tsp. salt METHOD: •Add ingredients, in order listed, into blender.

•Blend on high until smooth.

•Toddler version: Toss with cooked pasta and add grated cheese and crumbled sausage or shredded chicken.

Jen Picciano is a two time Emmy winning reporter at WOIO-TV, 19 News. Each week she dons an apron and gets messy in the kitchen with chefs all over the city, to produce and host a cooking segment, “Cleveland Cooks,” for 19 News. She also produces and hosts a weekly video podcast, “Taste Buds,” with Chef David Kocab, from Ushabu, (available through WOIO), and appears on WMJI Majic 105.7FM each Friday on “Cleveland Bites,” to share the city’s latest food and dining news. She is also a regular contributor to the television station’s morning talk show, “Sunny Side Up,” and “The Cribbs Show: Josh and Maria Live” with Josh and Maria Cribbs. She is special projects reporter/producer at WOIO-TV. And, in her “spare” time she writes a blog, “Cheftovers,” to showcase her clever use of leftovers and share her foodie adventures.

She resides in Mayfield Heights, with her husband and three daughters.

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MAPLE SUGAR EVENTS 3/1, 7, 8, 14 & 15

3/1

Tappin’ Sunday. This ceremonial tapping of the maple trees on Chardon Square is the first chance of the season to buy maple stirs. The official “tapper” will tap the tree with a commemorative bucket. 1 p.m. 111 E. Park St., maplefestival.com

3/1, 7 & 8

Maple Sugaring at Carlisle Reservation. Explore the history and science of maple sugaring through hands-on activities for all ages. Discover the secrets of maple sugaring in a brief indoor lecture, hiking to the sugar bush and collecting sap with a naturalist, and visiting the Sugar Shack to see the sap being converted into syrup. Train rides through a second sugar bush may also be available, weather permitting. 11:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

12882 Diagonal Road, LaGrange, 440-458-5121, loraincountymetroparks.com

History of Maple Sugaring. Walk through time along the Sugarbush Trail to see sap-collecting methods and syrup-making processes used throughout history and today. You’ll end at the sugar house to watch sap boiled into maple syrup. Guided hikes leave the sugar house every 30 minutes (last hike leaves at 2:30 p.m.). 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Maple Grove Picnic Area in Rocky River Reservation, 24000 Valley Pkwy., North Olmsted, 440-734-6660, clevelandmetroparks.com

3/1, 8 & 15

Sap’s-a-Risin’! Visit Geauga Park District’s sugar house, sugar bush and lodge for a sweet taste of how maple sugaring methods have evolved from the Native American tradition to modern methods. Gather sap in the sugar bush with a horse-drawn sap sled, experience the tapping, gathering and boiling methods used throughout history, see sap boiling in the sugar house, taste maple syrup, then warm up with maple treats and live music in the lodge. Noon-4 p.m. Swine Creek Reservation, 16004 Hayes Road, Middlefield, 440-286-9516, geaugaparkdistrict.org

3/1, 8, 15, 22 & 29

Pancake Town USA Breakfasts.

On Sundays in March, pancake breakfasts are served in different locations around Burton to benefit different local organizations.

8 a.m.-3 p.m. burtonchamberofcommerce.org Rotary Club of Burton Middlefield Pancake Breakfast. Allyou-can-eat pancake breakfast, plus famous omelets. Ages 4-10, $5; ages 11 and older, $8; $12 pancake breakfast and omelet. 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Berkshire High School, 14510 N. Cheshire St., Burton, burtonmiddlefieldrotary.com

3/6

Family Friday Night: The Science of Maple Sugar. Discover the science of maple syrup through hands-on experiments, demonstrations and a taste test.

6:30-8 p.m. North Chagrin Nature Center, 401 Buttermilk Falls Pkwy., Willoughby, 440-473-3370, clevelandmetroparks.com Nature Baby: Maple Sugaring.

Nature is awaiting, so let’s get baby out to explore. Learn how maple syrup is made through stories and songs. Rocky River Nature Center, 24000 Valley Pkwy., North Olmsted, 440-7346660, clevelandmetroparks.com

Maple Sugaring Pairing Dinner. Come for an evening of good wine, food and maple sugaring. Take a tour of the sugar bush and learn how maple syrup is made. Then enjoy a meal prepared

by J&J Catering with wine pairing by Debonné Vineyards. Ages 21 and older.

5:30-9 p.m. Lake Metroparks Farmpark, 8800 Euclid Chardon Road, Kirtland, 440-256-2122, lakemetroparks.com

3/7

Veterans Hike: Maple Sugaring.

Veterans, join for an inside look at a sugar bush and a trail walk to discover the history of maple sugaring. Samples included. 1-2 p.m. Swine Creek Reservation, 16004 Hayes Road, Middlefield, 440-286-9516, geaugaparkdistrict.org

3/7, 8, 14 & 15

Maple Sugaring Weekends at Lake Metroparks Farmpark. Discover how maple syrup is produced through hands-on demonstrations and crafts.

Take a wagon ride to the Woodland Center to see how maple syrup is made.

Sample maple syrup and candy, make a maple craft, help gather sap, learn how to tap trees and make maple syrup in your own backyard. 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

8800 Euclid Chardon Road, Kirtland, 440-256-2122, lakemetroparks.com Maple Syrup Gatherings. “Pa” hitches up the horses and takes visitors into the woods through the sugar bush to collect the sweet stuff, then brings it back to the sugar shack to demonstrate how it is all done. Sample some maple coffee and candy, and various other maple treats in the log cabin. Horses go out Saturdays from 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Sundays at 2 p.m. only. Weather permitting. Ma & Pa’s Gift Shack, 15161 Main Market Road, Burton, 440-548-5521, maandpas.com Maple Tour of Northeast Ohio. Twenty sugar houses and businesses across the region participate in this driveit-yourself tour. Meet the producers, see the process, and taste the sweet products. Syrup and other items are available for sale at each location. Each sugar house has different operating hours, which can be found online (in addition to a tour map). mpneoh.com Ohio Maple Madness Driving Trail.

Statewide drive-it-yourself tour organized by the Ohio Maple Producers Association that includes open house events at many area sugar houses. ohiomaple.org

3/7 & 9

Family Living Living at at Its Its Best Best 68 | Family

Timbertots: Maple Sugar Time! Ages 3-5 with an adult will explore outdoors and enjoy hands-on activities to discover where and how we get real maple syrup. Dress for the weather. Registration required. 10 a.m. on 3/7; 10 a.m. & 1

p.m. on 3/9. The Sugar House at Geauga Park District’s Swine Creek Reservation, 16004 Hayes Road, Middlefield, 440-2869516, geaugaparkdistrict.org

3/8, 15 & 22

Goodell Family Farm’s Pancake Breakfast. Come for delicious pancakes and sausage topped with the farm’s own Pure Ohio Maple Syrup. $8.50 adults; $4.50 children, ages 4-12; free for children ages 3 and younger. 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m. 9090 OH 44, Ravenna, goodellfamilyfarm.com

3/8, 15, 22 & 29

Pancake Breakfast at Century Village Museum. A Geauga County tradition!

All-you-can-eat pancakes with fresh, local maple syrup. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. 14653 E. Park St., Burton, centuryvillagemuseum.org

3/14, 15, 21 & 22

Maple Sugar Festival & Pancake Breakfast. Enjoy a pancake breakfast and then head out into the Sugaring Camp to learn about tree tapping, the maple sugar process and experience oxen demonstrations.

View period arts and crafts demonstrations such as glassblowing, blacksmithing, pottery and spinning and weaving. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. (breakfast served until 3 p.m.) Hale Farm & Village, 2686 Oak Hill Road, Bath, halefarm.org

3/21

Fulton Farm Maple Syrup Tour & Pancake Breakfast. Take a wagon tour of the Fulton family’s Maple Valley Farm sugar woods, owned and operated by five generations of the Fulton family. See the entire syrup-making process from gathering the sap to boiling and bottling in the sugar house. Ninety-minute tours will begin and end at Buffalo Creek Retreat, where you can enjoy a pancake breakfast and warm refreshments. Register by 3/10. 8708 Hubbard Valley Road, Seville, medinacountyparks.com Maple Cook-Off. individuals or teams prepare maple-inspired dishes and compete against other maple chefs for a prize. Entry is limited to 15 chef contestants, first come first serve, and contestants must register

by March 1 in person at the Carlisle Visitor Center to compete. Register by March 16 to attend as a taster. Noon-3 p.m. Henry’s Barn, 46223 U.S. Rt. 20, Oberlin, loraincountymetroparks.com

4/23-26

Geauga County Maple Festival. The oldest maple festival in the U.S. celebrates the production of pure maple syrup in Geauga County and Northeast Ohio. Four days of fun, food and “everything maple.” Events include arts and crafts, bathtub races, concessions, continuous grandstand entertainment, invitational lumberjack competition, pancakes in the park, two grand parades and more. Chardon Square, 111 E. Park St., 440-286-3007, maplefestival.com

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MARCH CAlenDAR Find more events at NortheastOhioParent.com

s: Our Pick Have Super Family Fun!

Pick your DAY

MONDAYS

Teen Lounge. Need a place to hang out after school? Enjoy computers, video games, board games, snacks and more. 3:30-5:30 p.m. Westlake Porter Public Library, 27333 Center Ridge Road, 440-8712600, westlakelibrary.org Monday Mischief. Scamper in and enjoy some art, science, cooking, music, mischief and fun. All ages with a participating caregiver. 10:30 a.m.

Fairport Harbor Library, 335 Vine St, 440-354-8191, fairportlibrary.com

3/6-8

3/22

LunchBox Kids Cooking Class. Allows kids to explore global recipes and try their hand as the chef. 2-2:30 p.m. Children’s Museum of Cleveland, 3813 Euclid Ave., cmcleveland.org

will engage in hands-on experimentation using math and science in fun, educational activities. 4:15-5:15 p.m.

Carnegie West Branch Library, 1900 Fulton Road, Cleveland, 216-623-6927, cpl.org

TUESDAYS

Art Therapy Open Studio.

This therapeutic art group offers time for self-expression.

1-3 p.m. Emily Cooper Welty Expressive Therapy Center, Akron Children’s Hospital, 1 Perkins Sq., Akron, mkrager@akronchildrens.org, akronchildrens.org

Wizard World Comic Con. Fans converge at Wizard World Comic Con Cleveland to celebrate the best in pop culture. Friday 4-9 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.-7 p.m., and Sunday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Huntington Convention Center of Cleveland, 300 Lakeside Ave., wizardworld.com/comiccon/ cleveland

Toddler Art Zone. Families with children ages 2-4 years old are invited to drop in to explore different art materials and create masterpieces.11:15 a.m.-noon. Kent Free Library, 312 W. Main St., 330-673-4414, kentfreelibrary.org Mean Green Math Machine.

Through math-based activities like “Mr. Archimedes Bath” and “Oh Can You Say? What’s the Weather Today?” children

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Superheroes on the Train.

Entertainment from superhero characters on a 90-minute long trip. Departs at 12:55 p.m. from Peninsula Station.

Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad. cvsr.org

WEDNESDAYS

Builder’s Club. Children ages 4-14 are invited to build creations with their preferred material following the

3/28

Wildwood Micro Con. Enjoy a multi-genre entertainment and comic micro-convention. Local comic and gaming vendors, kids activities, costumes and more. 10 a.m.4 p.m. Wildwood Cultural Center & Park, 7645 Little Mountain Road, Mentor, cityofmentor.com

prompts for each session.

4-4:45 p.m. Kent Free Library, 312 W. Main St., 330-673-4414, kentfreelibrary.org Teen Cosplay. Learn how to craft props, gizmos and gadgets to enhance your cosplay experience. 4-5 p.m. Garrettsville Branch Library, 10482 South St., portagelibrary.org

THURSDAYS

Homework Helpers. Need help with your homework or a class project? Want some quiet time to read? Grades K-5 just drop in for help. 4-5 p.m. Lee Road Branch Library, 2345 Lee Road, Cleveland Hts., heightslibrary.org

JOIN US STEAM Studio. Explore science, technology, engineering, math and the arts in each hands-on program. Discover, imagine, create. 4:15-5 p.m.

Rocky River Public Library, 1600 Hampton Road, 440333-7610, rrpl.org

FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS

Family Weekend Wonders Drop-In Story Time. Make the Library a part of your family weekend time with programs featuring stories, activities, music and crafts. 10:30-11:15 a.m. Lakewood Library, Main Branch, 15425 Detroit Ave., 216-226-8275, lakewoodpubliclibrary.org

SATURDAYS

Early Childhood Workshops.

Jumpstart your young scientist’s education. Drop in on the first Saturday of the month and enjoy age-appropriate tinkering activities. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Great Lakes Science Center, 601 Erieside Ave., Cleveland, 216-694-2000, greatscience.com

SUNDAYS

Open Studio. Drop-in art making where you will imagine, experiment and create.

1-4 p.m. The Cleveland Museum of Art, 11150 East Blvd., 216421-7350, clevelandart.org

ongoing THROUGH 3/8

‘Mockingbird.’ Caitlin is an 11-year-old girl on the autism spectrum. Suddenly, she must grapple with the unthinkable: a mass shooting has taken her brother away. He was the one person who helped her cope. Beck Center for the Arts, 17801 Detroit Ave., Lakewood, 216-521-2540, beckcenter.org

3/7-29

‘The King of the Animals (a Tale of Cameroon).’ When Anansi the spider comes to town and announces that he is going to be the new ruler, the rightful King of the Animals must be clever in showing him the error of his ways and retaining his own crown. Talespinner Children’s Theatre, 5209 Detroit Ave., Cleveland, 216-264-9680, talespinnerchildrenstheatre. org

3/10-29

‘Jesus Christ Superstar.’ Set against the backdrop of an extraordinary series of events during the final weeks in the life of Jesus Christ as seen through the eyes of Judas.

Connor Palace, 1615 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, 216-241-6000, playhousesquare.org

3/26-4/19

I-X Indoor Amusement Park.

This annual springtime event offers a full day of smiles, thrills and family fun, all at a budget-friendly price. 1 I-X Center Drive, Cleveland, ixamusementpark.com

At these Northeast Ohio Parent Camp Fair Events!

day - by - DAY 3/1

‘Blippi Live.’ Children have quickly taken a liking to Blippi’s charismatic personality and innovative teaching lessons. In the live show, they will continue to learn about the world around them while singing and dancing along with this one-of-a-kind show.

2 p.m. Akron Civic Theatre, 182 S. Main St., Akron, 330-5353179, akroncivic.com

3/6-7

PNC Music Explorers: ‘ The Cheerful Cello.’ An energetic host leads the audience in singing, clapping and moving to the music while musicians from the Cleveland Orchestra and guests perform short solo selections and kid-friendly tunes. For ages 3-6 and their families. Severance Hall, 11001 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, clevelandorchestra.com

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3/7

Camp Fair West 2020.

Saturday, March 7, meet with dozens of camps under one roof at the largest camp fair in the region.

Camp scholarships awarded. Entertainment: Jesse Jukebox, Mad Science, music and science fun. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Market Square at Crocker Park, Westlake, campfairwest2020. eventbrite.com

3/8

Camp Fair East 2020.

Sunday, March 8, meet with dozens of camps under one roof at the largest camp fair in the region. Camp scholarships awarded.

Entertainment: Jesse Jukebox, Mad Science, music and science fun. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Hawken School, 5000 Clubside Road, Lyndhurst, campfaireast2020. eventbrite.com

St. Barnabas School is a special place!

A National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence

KINDERGARTEN ORIENTATION AND REGISTRATION NIGHT! Wednesday March 25th, 6:30 PM

COME EXPERIENCE THE SAINT BARNABAS DIFFERENCE

Any NEW Kindergarten Student who enrolls between now and March 25th will receive a 300.00 credit towards tuition.

9200 Olde Eight Rd, Northfield, OH 44067 • 330-467-7921

www.sbcatholicschool.com Contact STB Admissions for a personal tour or shadow: sfarber@barnabasohio.org

#WEARESTBARNABAS #BEGENTLETOALL

March 2020 - NortheastOhioParent.com

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March CALENDAR

3/6-8

March Party 2020. Annual three-day stamp collecting extravaganza for all ages featuring exhibits and an introduction to stamp collecting to children and beginners. Holiday Inn Strongsville, 15471 Royalton Road, 440-937-0069, garfieldperry.org

3/7

Great Lakes Theater Classics on Tour: ‘Sherlock Holmes Meets the Bully of Baker Street.’

A funny, family-friendly musical production with a message.

Recommended for students in grades 1-8. 10-11 a.m. Hudson Library, 96 Library St., 330-6536658, hudsonlibrary.org

3/8

Cavs Academy All-Girls Clinic.

Learn and develop skills in the areas of shooting, passing, defense, ball-handling and live games. 1:30-3 p.m. Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse, 1 Center Court, Cleveland, cavsyouth.com/clinics

GOT AN EVENT? Submit your calendar listings at calendar@northeastohioparent.com

Pot-O-Gold Cauldron Family Pottery Painting. Come join the Bees in making your very own Pot-O-Gold. 3-4:30 p.m. Busy Bees Pottery & Arts Studio, 7850 Mentor Ave., Mentor, 440-5715201, mentor.busybeesart.com

Career Day at the Zoo. Explore the professional fields of animal care, veterinary medicine, education and more. Get close to small animals, meet with zoo staff and take a behindthe-scenes tour. 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, 3900 Wildlife Way, 216-635-3391, clevelandmetroparks.com/zoo

3/9

Family Science Night. Fun, hands-on science activities.

6-7:30 p.m. Environmental Learning Center, 7250 Alexander Road, Concord Twp., lakemetroparks.com

3/10

Homeschoolers Outdoor Education: Rock and Minerals.

From building material and jewelry to electricity and even food, you will be surrounded by rocks and the products we make from them. Ages 7-10. 1011:30 a.m. and 1-2:30 p.m. Wolf Creek Environmental Center, 6100 Ridge Road, Sharon Ctr., medinacountyparks.com Kids in the Kitchen. Ages 7-12 create your own St. Patrick’s Day popcorn snack. 4 p.m. West River Branch Library, 1194 W. River Road N., Elyria, 440-324-2270, elyrialibrary.org Read to Bernie the Therapy Dog. Practice your reading skills by reading out loud to Bernie the therapy dog. 4-5 p.m. Middlefield Branch Library, 16167 E. High St., 440-632-1961, divi.geaugalibrary.net

3/11

Karaoke Dance-Off. Test your singing and dancing skills at the Karaoke Dance-Off. Choose your favorite song and sing solo or with friends. 4-5 p.m.

Kenmore Branch Library, 969 Kenmore Blvd., Akron, akronlibrary.org Forest Guardians. Take your love of exploring to the next level by studying and preserving our local forest. Work as a research team, investigating Huntington Reservation to identify potential threats to its ecosystem. Grades 3-5. 4-5:30 p.m. Lake Erie Nature & Science Center, 28728 Wolf Road, Bay Village, 440-871-2900, lensc.org - CONTINUED ON PAGE 77 -

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Parent and Me MONDAYS

Spring Baby & Me. For babies and toddlers and their caregivers. Join a 20-minute lapsit program of songs, stories and rhymes. 9:15 & 10:15 a.m. Rocky River Public Library, 1600 Hampton Road, 440-333-7610, rrpl.org Music and Movement. Put on your dancing shoes and get ready to shake your sillies out.

Ages 2-5 and their caregivers.

10:30-11:30 a.m. Akron Public Library, 60 High St., 330-6439050, akronlibrary.org Preschool Story Time. After reading fun stories, singing songs and repeating rhymes, Super Sleuths will further explore their stories through play and crafts. Through 5/4. 11:30 a.m.noon. Woodland Branch Library, 5806 Woodland Ave., Cleveland, 216-623-7109, cpl.org Spring Toddler Storytime.

Caregivers and their little ones from 19-35 months join for rhymes, songs, fingerplays and books. 10-10:30 a.m. Chagrin Falls Branch Library, 100 E. Orange St., 440-247-3556, cuyahogalibrary.org Tales for Tykes. Stories, movement and rhymes for active walkers through 3-year-olds with their caregivers. 3/16-5/4.

North Ridgeville Branch Library, 37500 Bainbridge Road, 440327-8326, lorainpubliclibrary.org Family Storytime. Books, rhymes, songs and fingerplays.

All children and their caregivers are welcome. 3/16-4/13. 10:30 a.m. Buckeye Library, 6625 Wolff Road, Medina, 330-725-4415, mcdl.info Preschool Story Hour. Join Miss Chris for a morning of stories, songs, dance and snacks. 3/24/27. 10 a.m. Peninsula Library, 6105 Riverview Road, 330-4677323, peninsulalibrary.org Eastlake Preschool Storytime. Help your preschooler develop the literacy and social skills needed for Kindergarten.

10-10:30 a.m. Eastlake Public Library, 36706 Lakeshore Blvd., 440-942-7880, we247.org

Garrettsville Storytime. A great opportunity for children to interact with other children and adults while fostering a love of reading and showcasing great books for little listeners. 11-11:45 a.m. Garrettsville Branch Library, 10482 South St., portagelibrary.org

TUESDAYS

Lapsit Storytime. Rhymes, song and play for children ages birth-24 months with adult caregiver. Westlake Porter Public Library, 27333 Center Ridge Road, 440-871-2600, westlakelibrary.org Caregiver & Me at the Children’s Museum of Cleveland.

A morning of singing, dancing and movement. Bond with your baby as you learn new things to try at home. 3813 Euclid Ave., cmcleveland.org

STORYTIMES & ACTIVITIES Play and Learn Stations. Preschool literacy program offering interactive opportunities for parents or caregivers to explore with their children, ages birth to 5 years. 10 a.m.-noon. Shaker Library, 16500 Van Aken Blvd., 216-991-2030, shakerlibrary.org

WEDNESDAYS

Mommy Mix & Mingle at the Akron Children’s Museum.

Drop your school-aged children off at school, bring your babies and preschoolers and enjoy some playtime and meet other moms. First Wednesday of the month. 10 a.m.-noon. 216 S. Main St., akronkids.org Tales for Twos. Stories, songs, fingerplays and more. Through 3/10. 10:30 a.m. North Canton Public Library, 185 N. Main St., 330-499-4712, ncantonlibrary.com

Waddlers. Share books and bubbling activities during this program designed for ages 1224 months and their caregivers.

6 p.m. Amherst Public Library, 221 Spring St., 440-988-4230, amherst.lib.oh.us

Rhythm & Rhyme. A story, music and movement for preschoolers. Ages 3-5 with caregiver. Through 5/6. Bainbridge Branch Library, 17222 Snyder Road, Chagrin Falls, 440-5435611, divi.geaugalibrary.net

Baby Bonanza. Bring your not-yet-walking babies and blankets in for books, bopping and bouncing at this yearround lap-sit program. 10-10:30 a.m. Lee Road Branch Library, 2345 Lee Road, Cleveland Hts., heightslibrary.org

Walking Babies Story Time.

Through 4/22. 9:45 a.m.

Stow-Munroe Falls Public Library, 3512 Darrow Road, 330688-3295, smfpl.org

Rock-A-Bye Tales. Lapsit storytime for babies 6-24 months and a caregiver. Through 4/28.

9:30-10 a.m. Cuyahoga Falls Library, 2015 Third St., 330-9282117, cuyahogafallslibrary.org Baby Bookworms. Enjoy one-on-one lap time engaging in stories, songs, rhymes, fingerplays and more. Spend some time cuddling with your baby and connecting with other caregivers. 3/17-3/31. 10 a.m.

Morley Library, 184 Phelps St., Painesville, 440-352-3383, morleylibrary.org Toddler Tuesday at the Mall.

Come to the Lake Health Children’s Play Area the first Tuesday of each month for fun, seasonal-themed activities. 11 a.m.-noon. Great Lakes Mall, 7850 Mentor Ave., Mentor, shopgreatlakesmall.com

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THURSDAYS

Stories and Play. Enjoy stories, movement and songs for young children. Stay and play afterward with toys and a chance for parents to chat. 10:15-11:30 a.m.

Goodyear Branch Library, 60 Goodyear Blvd., Akron, 330-7847522, akronlibrary.org

Wee Ones. Songs, rhymes and simple stories for ages birth-36 months. Through 4/16. 10:30 a.m.

Barberton Public Library, 602 W. Park Ave., 330-745-1194, barberton.lib.oh.us Baby Signs. Baby sign language is all about using simple gestures with babies and toddlers that allow parents and caregivers the opportunity to communicate with youngsters long before they have begun speaking. Through 3/19. 6-6:30 p.m. Twinsburg Public Library, 10050 Ravenna Road, 330-4254268, twinsburglibrary.org Babies and Books. Lapsit storytime with rhymes, bouncing songs, books and activities.

10-10:30 a.m. Reed Memorial Library, 167 E. Main St., Ravenna, 330-296-2827, reedlibrary.org Movers and Shakers. Preschoolers and their caregivers will enjoy singing, playing, talking, listening and moving together. 10-10:30 a.m. Bertram Woods Branch Library, 20600 Fayette Road, Shaker Hts., shakerlibrary.org

FRIDAYS

Family Story Time. Children of all ages with a favorite adult are invited to join for songs, stories, fingerplays and more. 10:30 a.m.

Kent Free Library, 312 W. Main St., 330-673-4414, kentfreelibrary.org

SATURDAYS

Art Stories at The Cleveland Museum of Art. Enjoy this weekly story time that combines children’s books, CMA artworks and interactive fun. Designed for children and their favorite grown-up. 11-11:30 a.m. 11150 East Blvd., 216-421-7350, clevelandart.org

EARLY SPRING SATURDAYS

Spring Nature Adventure.

Engage all your senses to explore and discover the full array of nature’s spring delights in Holden’s Working Woods, such as fort building, animal tracking and free play. 3/14-4/25. 10 a.m.-noon.

Holden Arboretum, 9500 Sperry Road, Kirtland, 440-946-4400, holdenarb.org

3/3

Preschoolers in the Garden: Let’s Play with Plants. Apples, strawberries, corn, maple syrup, mint and almonds. We all love to eat plants, but find out what else we can do with plants. 10-11:30 a.m.

Krabill Lodge at Chippewa Lake, 7597 Ballash Road, Medina, medinacountyparks.com

3/14

Early Spring Wildflowers Hike.

Explore the Sugar Creek valley in search of early blooms. 2-3 p.m. French Creek Sugar Creek Trailhead, 4530 Colorado Ave., Sheffield Village, loraincountymetroparks.com

3/15

Hinckley Buzzard Sunday. See buzzards come home to roost in the rock cliffs and ledges in Hinckley. Includes an early bird hike; skits, songs and stories; displays, crafts, contests and more. 9 a.m.2:30 p.m. Hinckley Reservation near Hinckley Lake, off Bellus and State roads, ohiotraveler.com/ hinckley-buzzard-sunday

3/16

Spring Sensory Stations. Engage your child’s senses by scooping, pouring, sorting and more with a variety of fun materials. For children ages 2-7 with special needs, their families and their siblings or peers. 3-4:30 p.m. Westlake Porter Public Library, 27333 Center Ridge Road, 440-871-2600, westlakelibrary.org Spring Sprouts Camp. Get out and enjoy the natural world and discover the wonders that spring holds. Ages 5-6. 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Children’s Schoolhouse Nature Park, 9045 Baldwin Road, Kirtland Hills, lakemetroparks.com

3/20

Signs of Spring. Beat the winter blues by hitting the trails and seeing what plants and animals

are starting to stir. 1-2 p.m. Acacia Reservation, 26899 Cedar Road, Lyndhurst, clevelandmetroparks.com Springtime Hike & Fire. Enjoy the sights and sounds of a spring evening while hiking. Afterward, gather around a campfire to roast marshmallows. 7-8:30 p.m. Twinsburg Ledges, 9999 Liberty Road, Twinsburg, summitmetroparks.org

3/21-4/5

Meet and Greet with the Easter Bunny. Hop aboard the Easter Bunny Express Train and meet the Easter Bunny. Saturdays and Sundays, 11:30 a.m. Ohio Station Outlets, 9911 Avon Lake Road, Burbank, ohiostationoutlets.com

3/24

Think Spring: Fun Painting Techniques. You’ll have fun trying out several easy and fun painting techniques and go home with a one-of-a-kind canvas original that you’ve painted. Kindergarten to grade 5. 11 a.m.-noon. Brook Park Branch Library, 6155 Engle Road, 216-267-5250, cuyahogalibrary.org

3/28

Junior Ranger, Jr.: Here Comes Spring. Explore what is changing

as the cold weather ends and spring arrives. Go on a hike to search for signs of new life. 10 a.m.noon. Cuyahoga Valley National Park, conservancyforcvnp.org Families Hop Into Spring. Celebrate spring and eat breakfast with the Easter Bunny, jump into a eggtastic craft and enjoy stories and treats. It’s sure to be an “eggcellent” time. Domonkas Branch Library, 4125 E. Lake Road, Sheffield Lake, 440-949-7410, lorainpubliclibrary.org

3/28-29

Breakfast with the Bunny. Enjoy a breakfast buffet, crafts, activities, visits with the Easter Bunny and an egg hunt with prizes. Bring your own camera for pictures with the bunny and a basket to collect eggs. 8:30-10 a.m. Akron Zoo, 505 Euclid Ave., 330-375-2550, akronzoo.org

4/4

Spring Fling. Visit with lambs, ducklings and bunnies, watch the flock be sheared, see sheep herding demonstrations and see a short theatre performance. Noon4 p.m. The Spicy Lamb Farm, 6560 Akron-Peninsula Road, Peninsula, thespicylamb.com

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ONGOING CLEVELAND METROPARKS ZOO AKRON ART MUSEUM

THROUGH 3/15 ‘The Distance of the Moon.’ On the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the moon landing, this exhibition examines the moon through the lens of photography and video. 1 S. High St., 330-376-9185, akronartmuseum.org

AKRON CHILDREN’S MUSEUM

ONGOING SmART Saturdays. Exploratory art experiences and creative opportunities for all ages. 1-2 p.m. on the third Saturday of each month.

Art Studio Sundays. Artwork make-and-take with a different project each week. Every Sunday, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 216 S. Main St., akronkids.org

AKRON FOSSILS & SCIENCE CENTER

ONGOING Creation Education Museum.

Dedicated to comparing and contrasting scientific models like intelligent design and evolution on the origin of the universe and catastrophism and uniformitarianism models on the geologic record. 2080 S. Cleveland-Massillon Road, Copley, 330-665-3466, akronfossils.com

AKRON ZOO

ONGOING Get up close to 700 animals 361 days a year. Explore Komodo Kingdom, Grizzly Ridge, Penguin Point and much more. Pride of Africa is now open. 500 Edgewood Ave., 330-375-2550, akronzoo.org

CLEVELAND BOTANICAL GARDEN

ONGOING Glasshouse Exploration. Meet and greet the animals in the Madagascar biome. Butterfly release in the Costa Rica biome, Glasshouse tours. 11030 East Blvd., 216-721-1600, cbgarden.org

ONGOING Meet animals from around the world and create unforgettable memories. Tour the zoo and the RainForest for an afternoon or the entire day. 3900 Wildlife Way, 216-661-6500, futureforwildlife.org

CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF CLEVELAND

ONGOING Wonder Lab, Adventure City, Making Miniatures, Arts & Parts, The Meadow, Playlist and Theater. Visitors with autism spectrum disorder and developmental, sensory and learning differences will find support throughout the museum. 3813 Euclid Ave., cmcleveland.org

CLEVELAND HISTORY CENTER

ONGOING Cleveland Starts Here. A place for Northeast Ohioans to locate their own stories and place themselves in the rich story of Cleveland and Northeast Ohio and for school children to experience firsthand the history of Cleveland and the region. 10825 East Blvd., 216-721-5722, wrhs.org

THE CLEVELAND MUSEUM OF ART

THROUGH 4/12 PROOF: Photography in the Era of the Contact Sheet. The photographer first saw positive images on the contact sheet. Digital technology has put an end to that era: the photographer now sees the image instantly, and systems of storage, retrieval and editing have become increasingly sophisticated. 11150 East Blvd., clevelandart.org

THE CLEVELAND MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY

THROUGH 4/26 ‘Ultimate Dinosaurs: Meet a New Breed of Bite.’ Explore the dinosaurs of the Southern Hemisphere who evolved in isolation from the dinosaurs we know and love. 1 Wade Oval Drive, cmnh.org

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Attractions

GREAT LAKES SCIENCE CENTER

BEGINNING 3/20 Body Worlds Rx. Through the process of Plastination, a complex preservation method that removes the fluids from the body and replaces them with reactive resins and elastomers, the specimens in this special exhibition offer guests the unique opportunity to be inspired and amazed by the inner workings of the human body.

601 Erieside Ave., Cleveland, 216694-2000, greatscience.com

GREATER CLEVELAND AQUARIUM

ONGOING Aquarist for a Day, Stingray Art Experience, Zzzs in the Seas Overnights. 2000 Sycamore St., Cleveland, 216-862-8803, greaterclevelandaquarium.com

HOLDEN ARBORETUM

BEGINNING 4/1 Canopy Walk and Emergent Tower. The Canopy Walk, a 500-foot-long elevated walkway built 65 feet above the forest floor, will give you a unique perspective on forests and the animals. The Emergent Tower will take you above the trees to a height of 120 feet, where on a clear day you can see all the way to Lake Erie. 9500 Sperry Road, Kirtland, 440-946-4400, holdenarb.org

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S AIR & SPACE MUSEUM

ONGOING Amelia Earhart, Ruth Nichols, Bessie Coleman, Harriet Quimby, Katharine Wright, the WASP, Jackie Cochran and more. Burke Lakefront Airport, 1501 N. Marginal Road, Cleveland, 216-623-1111, iwasm.org

LAKE ERIE NATURE & SCIENCE CENTER

ONGOING Schuele Planetarium: Twinkle Tots, Stellar Stars, Family Adventures in Space, Sky Tonight and Full Dome Show. 28728 Wolf Road, Bay Village, 440-8712900, lensc.org

MALTZ MUSEUM OF JEWISH HERITAGE

THROUGH 3/1 ‘Leonard Bernstein: The Power Of Music.’ The first large-scale museum exhibition to illustrate Leonard Bernstein’s life, Jewish identity and social activism.

2929 Richmond Road, Beachwood, 216-593-0575, maltzmuseum.org

MCKINLEY MUSEUM

ONGOING Stark County Food: From Early Farming to Modern Meals. Explore food history in Stark County, from the earliest orchards and farms to today’s culinary tourism scene. 800 McKinley Monument Drive NW, Canton, 330-455-7043, mckinleymuseum.org

STAN HYWET HALL & GARDENS

BEGINNING 4/1 ‘The Winds of Change.’ Both dynamic and nuanced, the theme will be captured in a colorful garden exhibit of the same name, “Winds of Change,” comprised of whimsical wind catchers and designed by an all-female group of local artists.

714 N. Portage Path, Akron, 330836-5533, stanhywet.org

THE SHAKER HISTORICAL SOCIETY

ONGOING First Saturday. Visit the Shaker Historical Museum the first Saturday of the month and discover exhibits of Shaker life, the development of Shaker Heights, art and architecture. 16740 S. Park Blvd., shakerhistory.org

March CALENDAR

3/12

Financial Planning for Students with Disabilities. Learn, discuss and plan for the important transition milestones your young adult will experience as they transition from school to adult life. 5:30 p.m.

Summit ESC, 420 Washington Ave., Cuyahoga Falls, summitdd.org 2020 World Kidney Day: Little Heroes, Big Voices. Akron Children’s Hospital collaborates with the National Kidney Foundation for the 3rd annual event to honor children and families with chronic kidney disease. 4-6 p.m. Considine Auditorium, Akron Children’s Hospital, 215 W. Bowery St., Akron, akronchildrens.org

3/14

Shamrock Fields Family Canvas Painting. Bring your family and join the Bees at the studio for the canvas painting workshop of shamrocks swaying in the night breeze, “Shamrock Fields.” 10-11:00 a.m. Busy Bees Pottery & Arts Studio, 7850 Mentor Ave., Mentor, 440-571-5201, mentor.busybeesart.com Cleveland Chocolate Fest. An event for everyone with chocolate vendors throughout providing samples of all their goodies, a chocolate fountain and more. 5-8 p.m. Lago Custom Events, 1091 W. 10th St., chocolatefestcleveland.com Kitchen Connections: Travel the World with Food. Ages 11+ with Autism or similar diagnosis will travel without leaving the kitchen by creating recipes from all over the world. 9:30-11:30 a.m. The KIDnections Group, North Olmsted Recreation Center, 26000 Lorain Road, North Olmsted, thekidnectionsgroup@gmail.com

3/14-15

Railfest Train Show. Railfest has grown into one the largest model railroad train shows in Ohio with an emphasis on making it a family activity. Lakeland Community College, 770 Clocktower Drive, Kirtland, railfest.org Ballet Excel Ohio Presents ‘The Snow Queen.’ A world premier ballet choreographed by renowned NYC choreographer Tom Gold and inspired by one of Hans Christian Andersen’s most beloved children’s stories. 2 p.m.

Akron Civic Theatre, 182 S. Main St., Akron, 330-535-3179, akroncivic.com

3/17

St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Cleveland’s parade is the oldest and finest, comprising approximately 10,000 participants in 125 units. 1:04 p.m. East 18th and Superior, stpatricksdaycleveland.com Homeschool Field Trip Day: Native American Culture. Discover how we learn about prehistoric peoples and their cultures, about groups of Native Americans that have called Cleveland and Ohio home from past to present, and compare and contrast these different historic cultures. 10 a.m.-noon. The Cleveland History Center, 10825 East Blvd., wrhs.org

3/19

Curious Keen-Ager Sentimental Memories: Show & Tell. Remember the enjoyment you got showing your class some prized possession and telling them all about what made it special?

Here’s your chance to do it again.

11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Sippo Lake Park, Exploration Gateway, 5710-5712 12th St., Canton, 330-409-8096, starkparks.com

3/20

Three Stooges Film Fest. See a collection of four Three Stooges film shorts, and join in the Curly Shuffle competition during intermission. 7:30 p.m. Canton Palace Theatre, 605 Market Ave. N., Canton, cantonpalacetheatre.org Parry at The Palace. First annual Smash Bros. Ultimate Tournament. 5:30 p.m. The Lorain Palace Theater, 617 Broadway, Lorain, lorainpalace.org

3/21

Nassau Astronomy Night. Join members of the Chagrin Valley Astronomical Society to take in the wonders of the night sky using a newly restored telescope. 7-11 p.m.

Observatory Park, 10610 Clay St., Montville Township, 440-279-0820, geaugaparkdistrict.org Super Science Saturday: Mineral Madness. A hands-on learning opportunity for the whole family.

10:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Akron Fossils & Science Center, 2080 S. Cleveland Massillon Road, Copley, 330-6653466, akronfossils.com

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March CALENDAR

3/21

Teen Investing 101. From buying low and selling high to bear and bull markets, this hands-on program, presented by a former finance professional, will help teens learn the ins and outs of investing.

3-5 p.m. Solon Branch Library, 34125 Portz Pkwy., 440-2488777, cuyahogalibrary.org Family Film Fest. Award-winning, family-friendly short films from the 2019 New York International Children’s Film Festival. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Akron Art Museum, 1 S. High St., 330-3769185, akronartmuseum.org

Rising Aquatic Scientists.

Middle school students interested in exploring a career in marine biology can spend a day with aquarium team members, including guest experience associates, aquarists, SCUBA divers and others. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Greater Cleveland Aquarium, 2000 Sycamore St., Cleveland, 216-862-8803, greaterclevelandaquarium. com

3/22

Archery Games for Families.

Families with children ages 9 and older will play different games to build archery skills together in a fun and exciting way. 12:30-2 p.m. Firestone Metro Park, Coventry Oaks Area, 40 Axline Ave., Akron, 330-865-8065, summitmetroparks.org

Northeast Ohio Parent

3/24

Grandparents in the Park: Spring Break. Grandparents and their grandchildren are invited out for a day of fun indoor and outdoor nature activities for all ages. 1:30-3 p.m.

Big Creek Park, Meyer Center, 9160 Robinson Road, Chardon, geaugaparkdistrict.org Homeschool Days: Amazing Animals of Ohio. Learn to distinguish between mammal, bird, amphibian and reptile groups using concepts about what makes each of these groups special. 9:30-11:30 a.m.

Lehman’s, 4779 Kidron Road, Dalton, lehmans.com

MARKETPLACE

3/25-4/5

44th Cleveland International Film Festival. The Cleveland International Film Festival promotes artistically and culturally significant film arts through education and exhibition to enrich the life of the community. clevelandfilm.org

3/25

‘Big Stories Little Actors.’ “Big stories little actors” will keep things lucky with a class reading of “How to Catch a Leprechaun” by Adam Wallace followed by a fun game about taking up space on the stage. 10-11 a.m. French Creek Theatre, 4530 Colorado Ave., Sheffield Village, loraincountymetroparks.com/theatre

3/28

Chocolate Stroll. Stroll across the Gervasi estate, stopping at multiple venues for treats along the way. 1 p.m. Gervasi Vineyard, 1700 55th St. NE, Canton, 330-497-1000, gervasivineyard.com All Aboard the Akron Express. Funfilled family event which features a large model train display, “Be an Engineer” where you take the controls, build your own railroad and much more. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Akron Children’s Museum, 216 S. Main St., akronkids.org

3/28-29

Buckeye Alpaca Show. Vendors with luxurious garments made from alpaca, custom jewelry, toys for children and tack for alpaca owners.

9 a.m.-5 p.m. Summit County Fairgrounds, 229 E. Howe Ave., Tallmadge, buckeyealpacashow.com 22nd Annual KidShow. Hours of fun for the whole family. Anything and everything about kids. Great Lakes Mall, 7850 Mentor Ave., Mentor, shopgreatlakesmall.com Girls Take Flight. NASA’s Glenn Research Center and Case Western Reserve University have teamed up to offer this day of fun geared at aerospace science. Hands-on activities, demonstrations and exhibits will get you up, up and away. International Women’s Air & Space Museum, Burke Lakefront Airport, 1501 N. Marginal Road, Cleveland, iwasm.org

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March 2020

Resources for Helping the Ones you Love

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Ohio Department of Aging provides Grants to Increase Access to Healthy, Local Produce for Older Ohioans

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he Ohio Department of Aging announced it is awarding 11 grants totaling $440,000 to Ohio’s area agencies on aging to build or expand partnerships increasing access to nutritious food for low-income older Ohioans.

The ODA’s Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) provides income-eligible older adults with access to fresh, nutritious, unprepared, locally grown

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fruits, vegetables, herbs and honey through farmers’ markets and roadside stands. The program, previously available in 45 of Ohio’s 88 counties, is in high demand. In 2018, nearly 35,000 older Ohioans redeemed more than 65,000 cash-based coupons to purchase local produce from 440 local farmers. The program is made possible by funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, as well as state and local funds.

“Access to healthy and nutritious food influences life expectancy and health outcomes,” says Ursel McElroy, director of Ohio Department of Aging in a press release. “Since 2001, the SFMNP has connected older Ohioans and farmers. We are supporting and expanding healthy eating and being engaged in communities.”

Am. Sub. House Bill 166, Ohio’s SFY 2020-21 operating budget, includes additional general revenue funds to expand the SFMNP. Through a program called “Producing Healthy Seniors,” the department is awarding grants to area agencies on aging and contracted SFMNP partners who will develop, implement, monitor, and evaluate new and expanded efforts during the 2020 growing season.

“Producing Healthy Seniors” projects must support at least two sites within their service areas, including making produce available in non-traditional locations such as senior housing communities, local senior centers and congregate meal sites. In addition, area agencies will partner with local food advocacy networks and established community partners to provide food and additional services and resources, such as on-site nutrition education, cooking demonstrations and healthy recipes for participants.

Three $40,000 checks were provided to three Ohio agencies for their “Producing Healthy Seniors” projects, including Direction Home Akron Canton Area Agency on Aging and Disabilities’ Mobile Markets and Senior Housing program that will launch in Summit and Stark counties. The program will provide convenient delivery methods

for fresh produce. Contracting with two local partners, StarkFresh and Fox Family Farms, mobile markets will be set up at senior housing communities for individuals who would otherwise be unable to travel to traditional farmers’ markets The grant awards encourage innovative approaches to increase food access and target areas of the state with high rates of older adult poverty and food insecurity.

The grants will expand the program into counties not currently participating in Ohio’s SFMNP, as well as add new services and benefits where the program already operates.

“Producing Healthy Seniors” will extend local produce access to more than 6,700 older adults across Ohio.

“Visiting farmers’ markets are often part of Ohio families’ routines in the summer and fall, and this funding ensures that older Ohioans continue to have access to fresh, local produce,” says Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, according to the press release.

— Courtesy of Ohio Department of Aging, aging.ohio.gov

Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program

The Department of Aging partners with area agencies on aging to offer Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program in 45 counties. Participants can receive coupons, which can be redeemed for Ohio-grown fresh vegetables, fruits, herbs and honey, to use at participating farmers markets and roadside stands. Some restrictions may apply.

The following is the regional contacts SFMNPavailability and area markets, reach out to the following regional contacts: Cuyahoga, Geauga, Lake, Lorain and Medina counties: Western Reserve Area Agency on Aging Karen Webb, 216-727-2624, kwebb@areaagingsolutions.org

Connie Benedum, 216-539-9211, cbenedum@areaagingsolutions.org

Ann Stahlheber, 216-586-3412, astahlheber@areaagingsolutions.org Portage, Stark, Summit and Wayne counties: Direction Home Akron Canton Area Agency on Aging & Disabilities Jill Riffle, 330-899-5229, jriffle@dhad.org For more information, visit aging.ohio.gov

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#CLE MAMA

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Treasured Moments SARA CARNES • Facebook = Sara Carnes • Instagram = saracarnes4

FamilyLiving Livingat atIts ItsBest Best 82 || Family 82

( Even When They’re Not Perfect )

W

hile we try to teach our kids all about life, our kids teach us what life is all about. I’m not sure who first said that, but it’s so true. I’ve been living it first-hand with my daughters, but most recently my daughter taught me something really important. I love making memories with my kids.

I love sharing in their first experiences: first time riding a bike, losing a tooth, doing things on their own — and getting their ears pierced. My youngest daughter has been asking for a while about getting them pierced, and I thought, ya know, I think she’s ready — let’s have a mother-daughter day and make a day of it!

I’m thinking let’s make great memory, like I did with my oldest daughter when she had hers done.

Let’s make it an allour-girls day. So, first we went and got her a haircut. How perfect to have a new “do” to show off your new pierced ears, right?

Well, after getting her haircut, we headed over to the mall to get her ears pierced. I can still picture her super nervous little face as she was sitting in the chair trying to calm her nerves. I held her hand and told her everything would be ok, it’s no big deal.

She opted for doing both ears at one time, and I held her hand. And then — boom, it was done. Beautiful new earrings.

Except... it wasn’t. There was a big mistake: the earrings were off-center. No joke, I couldn’t believe it. They were not even. Yes, they drew the dots. But somehow that didn’t matter, they were off. What?!

I didn’t know what to say. My picture perfect day — her special milestone — now tainted. I’ll leave out the details about what happened next, but thankfully we were smart enough to leave and not let them pierce them again right away.

We left, went to lunch (because I had promised a mother-daughter lunch) and tried to not think about it.

Well, my daughter was good letting it go, but I couldn’t shake it. Could we get away with uneven earrings?! These will be for life. What do I do? I was pretty worked up about it.

Ultimately, I spoke with someone later that day who encouraged us to take the new earrings out, let the holes grow over and then we could get them done again in a few weeks. So sad — after getting them done, having to take them out.

My daughter took it so well though. You’ve maybe heard the phrase “out of the mouth of babes”? Well, later that night, after we had taken them out, I was getting frustrated while making dinner. I said something like, “wow, today just isn’t my day.” My daughter looked up at me and said, “Mom, it’s been a great day. We had a nice lunch together, got my hair done, spent time together — it was great.”

Not one mention of having to take out her brand new earrings or needing to go through the pain again. Nothing. Wow, I thought, even though this wasn’t the perfect experience I wanted it to be, it’s still a treasured day. Every day, every experience, isn’t going to be perfect.

Sometimes they’ll be downright terrible. But they’re experiences we’re blessed to have. I’m so glad my daughter reminded me of this. And, now we tease her that she has a great story to share that we can laugh about in the future.

(And yes, we plan to get her ears re-pierced in the near future.)

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