Northeast Ohio Parent - October 2019

Hair-raising fun

INDEPENDENT SCHOOL GUIDE

22 +

halloween diy

OCTOBER 2019 • FREE!

Choices for Your Child’s Future

Fall in EMBRACE THIS SEASON’S COLORS

COLLEGE CREDITS NOW Classes Before Graduation NortheastOhioParent.com

THE POWER OF PETS Helps Home and Heart October 2019 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 1

2 | Family Living at Its Best

October 2019 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 3

October

features

insiDE

NortheastOhioParent.com

16

Gather information for your child’s next educational step at these area events.

GET (POST-SECONDARY) CREDIT

Students can earn credits toward college through programs offered in high school. Knowing the ins and outs can guide you in choosing the right path for your child.

34

BEST ‘FRIGHT AND FUN’ FACE FORWARD

Tips and tricks that use everyday makeup products to turn your child’s last-minute Halloween costume into a smash hit.

19

INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DIRECTORY

A guide to help parents research a new school for their child’s educational journey.

28

EDUCATION NEWS Noteworthy happenings at schools in the region.

54

50

FAMILY CALENDAR

Find fun for all ages with these area events, including Parent and Me storytimes and activities, ongoing attractions and more.

BLENDED JOURNEY

Learn how one couple makes an effort to bring two families together — five kids and a ever-growing number of farm animals under one roof.

62

39

4 | Family Living at Its Best

08

WORTH NOTING Pet Power, Highland Springs changes mental health outpatient clinic, Reading Room.

EDUCATION CORNER Interpreting your child’s results on Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) tests can help you gauge their progress and pace of growth.

Get the most out of the beautiful fall foliage on the way, whether sightseeing with your kids or unpacking the science of leaves. Plus, find places to see the fall leaf changes starting on pg. 47

PHOTOS BY KIM STAHNKE PHOTOGRAPHY

06

12

44

Evangeline, 5, of Bay Village, was a 2018 Cover Kids winner.

This photo was taken last year during the fall season on the walking trails behind Barlow Community Center in Hudson.

departments EDITOR’S NOTE Climbing Out of the Technology Abyss

TAKE A LEAF

ON THE COVER:

31

OPEN HOUSES

HALLOWEEN FAMILY FROLIC & FALL FUN

Find spooktacular fun and fall events near you with our guide to family-friendly happenings in the region.

AGING ANSWERS

Resources to help you care for an aging loved one.

66

#CLEMAMA

Health issues serve as a reminder that “friend power” is stronger than willpower.

October 2019 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 5

PHOTO BY PRELUDE PHOTOGRAPHY

Editor's NOTE

Climbing Out of the Technology Abyss “Mom, can I have your phone?” asks my 10-year-old son daily since he doesn’t have his own device yet. All of his games are on my phone, as is YouTube, which he uses to watch hockey-related videos.

My soon-to-be teenager, who has had a phone since sixth grade, now has Snapchat and Instagram.

Lately it feels like all I do — even though my kids participate in several sports and school activities — is argue with them about screen time.

I am sure it wouldn’t surprise you that, according to a 2018 Pew Research Center study, “Teens and Social Media,” YouTube, Instagram and Snapchat are the most popular online platforms among teens ages 13-17. Also, 95 percent of teens have access to a smartphone and 45 percent say they are online “almost constantly.”

However, technology isn’t just for kids.

According to the same research, 36 percent of parents say they spend too much time on their phones, 39 percent said they lose focus at work because of checking their phones and 59 percent said they feel obligated to respond to messages immediately.

I don’t know about you, but I have been down the video “rabbit hole,” as I like to call it, where I get lost between blooper videos and heartwarming stories.

Our lives of streaming, watching, reading, and responding to emails and messages isn’t going away anytime soon. While everyone preaches about spending less time on our phones — for kids and parents — most of us don’t know, or at least don’t want to admit, how much time we actually use our devices. If using technology is inevitable, why not make a family pact to use it responsibly?

Common Sense Media, a nonprofit organization that provides information and ratings for entertainment and technology for families and kids, provides digital citizenship curriculum for kids up to age 17. Lessons are based on five core dispositions: slow down and self reflect; explore perspectives; see facts and evidence; envision options and possible impacts; and take action.

Some recommended steps to take based on the five areas include: push beyond your first impression; weigh different people’s values and priorities as well as your own; seek and evaluate information from multiple credible sources; consider how different choices reflect your values and goals; decide on a course of action that feels positive and productive; and make changes in digital habits to support well-being.

While I will try to keep my kids — and myself — away from the abyss of our phones and devices, maybe it’s important to consider not just the amount of screen time, but also how we are using it.

VOL. NO. 6 • ISSUE NO. 10

october 2019 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:

EDITOR - Angela Gartner

angela@northeastohioparent.com 216-536-1914 ASSISTANT EDITOR - Brandon Szuminsky

brandon@northeastohioparent.com DIGITAL CONTENT MANAGER - Denise Koeth

denise@northeastohioparent.com GRAPHIC DESIGNER - Sherry Lundberg

sherry@northeastohioparent.com ADVERTISING SALES:

Chris Geer, 330-614-8471 chris@northeastohioparent.com Janyse Heidy, 330-671-3886 janyse@northeastohioparent.com Michelle Vacha, 440-463-0146 michelle@northeastohioparent.com Samantha Olp, 330-636-6127 sam@northeastohioparent.com Sherrie Kantarovich, 216-299-5455 sherriek@northeastohioparent.com Yvonne Pelino, 440-971-0595 yvonne@northeastohioparent.com OFFICE MANAGER:

Kathleen Mitchell, 440-533-1208 kathleen@northeastohioparent.com EVENT MANAGER: Tara Tonsetic, 330-819-7280 tara@northeastohioparent.com DISTRIBUTION INQUIRIES: info@northeastohioparent.com

PUBLISHER OF:

Proud member of

Parenting Media

Association

6 | Family Living at Its Best

October 2019 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 7

Pet Power Helping kids and furry friends cohabitate safely

By Malia Jacobson

Worth NOTING

I

f your child’s first friend has four legs, here’s good news: per a recent study in Pediatrics, kids living in homes with dogs get sick less often than those in pet-free homes. Another study found that babies who lived with cats or dogs had fewer allergies later in life. And living with a pet can help curious little ones begin to develop empathy and kindness toward others.

New research shows that kids even prefer their pets to their siblings. Here’s what to know to help kids and pets live together peacefully, from birth through the teen years.

EARLY YEARS

PET PREP Your child may begin asking for a new pet during preschool, but that doesn’t mean he or she is ready to begin caring for one. If your family decides to take the pet plunge with a small child in the home, a smooth transition to pet ownership will involve plenty of preparation. Begin with a picture book about adding a new pet to the family, like “Lola Gets a Cat” by Anna McQuinn or “Our Very Own Dog” by Amanda McCardie.

Talk about safety guidelines — young children should not be alone with pets, particularly fragile young puppies or kittens — and who will handle which pet chores. While tots and preschoolers shouldn’t feed or walk new pets alone, your child may enjoy selecting toys, gently brushing the pet’s coat, or playing with the pet (under close caregiver supervision, of course).

Another must: take your pet to the veterinarian for a routine health examination and necessary vaccinations. While you’re there, make plans to spay or neuter.

The Humane Society reports that sterilized pets are healthier, calmer, and less likely to bite — making them better companions for little humans.

ELEMENTARY YEARS

BEHAVIOR BASICS By grade school, kids may be ready for a larger role in walking, training and feeding the family pet.

Animals pay attention to the people who feed them, so when kids are old enough, it’s a good idea to get them involved, says certified trainer Wynona Karbo of Seattle’s Ahimsa Dog Training.

“When a young child feeds a pet, keep the pet out of the area, if possible — using a baby gate, if necessary — so the animal doesn’t jump on the child during

8 | Family Living at Its Best

feeding and create negative habits,” she says.

If your new pet is a dog, teach kids vital safety guidelines to avoid bites; more than half of the country’s 4.7 million annual dog bites happen to children under age 14.

“Far too many children (and many adults) get away with completely unacceptable behavior toward dogs,” says Brad Howell, of Red Beard Dog Training, based in Greensboro, N.C. “Pulling ears, climbing and jumping on, or any invasion of space isn’t a position a lot of dogs want to be in, even if they don’t always give a clear sign they are annoyed. When dogs do show teeth, growl or even nip, we need to take a step back and examine what triggered the behavior.”

Teach children to observe and respect a dog’s cues, and they’ll be safer not only around your family dog, but any other dog they meet.

TEEN YEARS

TEEN’S BEST FRIEND Whether you’re ready to add another animal to the family or your older child wants his or her own bundle of fur, the teen years can be a great time to adopt a pet. Teens are old enough to walk and feed a pet independently, participate in training, even pick up pet food and ferry the animal to the vet or groomer’s. ( Just know that you might end up with full custody of the pet once your child heads off to college.)

What’s the right pet for your family? Your local climate, favorite pastimes and activity level should factor into your choice, Howell says. Families who travel often or spend long stretches away from home may want to consider a cat instead of a dog. Those with a passion for sailing or watersports might be good candidates for a dog breed that enjoys water; if you or your teen wants to hike or run with your pet, choose an active dog that can handle exertion. If your teen’s heart is set on a dog or a puppy, plan to commit hours to training, socialization and exercise. And don’t overlook an older dog or cat as a companion for a busy teen, Howell says, adding, “sweet, lazy old pets are the most underrated and overlooked.”

Malia Jacobson is an award-winning health and parenting journalist and mom of three. Her latest book is “Sleep Tight, Every Night: Helping Toddlers and Preschoolers Sleep Well Without Tears, Tricks, or Tirades.”

READING ROOM Young Adult New Release!

His Hideous Heart: 13 of Edgar Allan Poe’s Most Unsettling Tales Reimagined

Readers Share Their

Last month, we asked our followers to name their family’s favorite fall activities. Here’s what a few of them had to say:

Edited by Dahlia Adler

Edgar Allan Poe may be 150 years beyond this world, but the themes of his beloved works have much in common with modern young adult fiction. Whether the stories are familiar to readers or discovered for the first time, readers will revel in Edgar Allan Poe’s classic tales and how they’ve been brought to life in 13 unique and unforgettable ways.

— Recommended by Willoughby-Eastlake Public Library, we247.org

Hey Grandude!

By Paul McCartney

Beatles legend Paul McCartney brings us a fantastic picture book adventure about what kinds of outrageous fun grandparents and grandkids can get into. From dodging stampedes to escaping avalanches, this crazy family never has a dull moment.

— Recommended by Willoughby-Eastlake Public Library, we247.org

“Fall is our favorite! Decorating the house, pumpkin patches and apple farms, trick-or-treating, playing in the leaves and watching the joy on my children’s faces.”

— Molly “Harvesting the last of our vegetable garden, apple picking, fall walks and hikes in the Metroparks. Enjoying fall’s color and beauty and spending more time in the kitchen making yummy things.”

— Adria “My family is looking forward to cooler weather, campfires, the leaves changing colors and Halloween.”

— Jess “Fall is wonderful for cooler weather, cozy sweaters and laughter around the outdoor fire pit.”

— Robin

“Pumpkin patches, hayrides, cooler weather, leaves changing color and pumpkin spice everything.”

— Kate “Excited to go to ‘Boo at the Zoo’ for the first time.”

— Jessica “We love the pumpkin and apple festival at Patterson’s. We stop by there often for cider and apple fritters, too.”

— Diana “Can’t wait for Halloween and doing our first family costume.”

— Jackie “(Cleveland) Browns, cider and pumpkin patches.”

— Toni “Apple orchards, bonfires and trick-or-treating!”

— Kristy

Paint by Sticker Kids: Halloween

By Workman Publishing

GIVEAWAY

Enter to win this month at / facebook.com t NEOhioParen

The activity series includes everything kids need to create 10 vibrant images, including jacko-lanterns, a haunted house, a mummy and a pair of friendly ghosts.

October 2019 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 9

Worth NOTING

‘Changes’ Outpatient Facility Helps Kids Struggling with Mental Health and Addiction Story and photos by Angela Gartner Children and teens who are experiencing mental health and addiction issues now have a place to go.

Located in Solon, Changes is a new state-of-the-art outpatient facility from Springstone, a behavioral health services organization that also operates Highland Springs, a hospital and adult treatment center in Highland Hills. The adolescent clinic, which opened in September, partnered with University Hospitals Rainbow Babies & Children’s to provide intensive therapy options for ages 8-17. Treatment is offered to adolescents with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, substance abuse issues and other common mental health conditions.

“This is more intensive and this level of care is not readily available, especially for younger children,” says Jennifer Reed, licensed professional clinical counselor, registered art therapist and clinical program manager. “This is going to fill a huge need.”

The services that will be provided are partial hospitalization, which is an intensive day treatment Monday through Friday, and intensive outpatient, which is four days a week for three hours per day.

10 | Family Living at Its Best

Children will attend group therapies and have access to family support services and a sensory area. Kids in partial hospitalization will be able to continue their academics during the daytime programming.

“This newly renovated facility will allow University Hospitals Rainbow Babies & Children’s providers to combine dialectical, cognitive, music, art and recreational therapies, plus yoga, with medication management to help children and teens address mental health conditions and substance abuse disorders,” Patti DePompei, president of UH Rainbow Babies & Children’s and MacDonald Women’s hospitals, stated in a press release.

The program’s art therapy is one of the ways to help kids explore how they are feeling and their options for support.

“People are able to communicate through media and creative expression,” Reed says about art therapy.

“You can get a snapshot of what’s going on and that enables the therapist to ask the questions to bring the words out.”

The center is open Monday through Friday and serves all communities in the region. If a family

needs assistance, they can call 216-302-3070 for a 24/7 helpline to have a confidential assessment by a qualified mental health professional.

Johni Fiber, director of clinical services, says this is a good opportunity for the nurse, doctor and therapist to all work together on the same treatment team, which also includes a teacher communicating with the child’s home school district.

“Everything will be in an all-in-one place to help during a really critical time,” Fiber says. “We are obviously short-term for the partial outpatient hospitalization, (but) we are helping that family and that kiddo manage the crisis (and) have a team approach to have these needs met.

That is where you are going to see our ability to make an impact and create a safer situation for a kid.”

Visit highlandspringshealth.com for more information. If you or someone you know is feeling suicidal, reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 or the Crisis Text Line at 741-741; or in Ohio, text “4HOPE” or visit the Lifeline Crisis Chat at crisischat.org.

ONLINE IN OCTOBER 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!

TECH TOOLS FOR APPLYING TO COLLEGE

Many high school seniors begin applying to colleges in the fall. Tech writer Mike Daugherty reviews some helpful technology that can aid in the application process.

SPOOKY SWEETS

Northeast Ohio Parent blogger Abby Thome, of The Thome Home, shares some simple, seasonal desserts kids will love for Halloween: decorated pumpkin cake, mummy brownies and googly-eyed matcha Rice Krispie treats.

FACEBOOK GIVEAWAYS

Visit facebook.com/NEOhioParent throughout the month for giveaways to local events and attractions! Here’s a sneak peek at October’s contest calendar: Greater Cleveland Aquarium Goldfish Swim School

Paint by Sticker book giveaway

October 2019 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 11

Education CORNER

Helpful Tips for Parents on

Understanding

MAP Scores

By Ginny McCabe

B

y understanding Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) scores, parents can be better equipped to provide support to their children throughout the school year. We spoke with several experts to find out more about the assessments and how parents, teachers and administrators can work together to benefit each child.

According to Nate Jensen, director of the Center for School and Student Progress at Northwest Evaluation Association (NWEA), MAP Growth assessments are adaptive assessments that measure student achievement and growth in mathematics, reading, language usage and science. These assessments can be administered multiple times throughout the year (typically fall, winter and spring) and can be used to track student progress over time, both within and across school years.

Jensen says the goal of an adaptive test — which adjusts the difficulty of items a student sees based on if the student answers correctly or not — is to provide test items to students at a level commensurate with their achievement level and allow them to best demonstrate what they know and have learned.

Because the test is tailored to students, the results are “highly valid and reliable” estimates of student achievement levels, Jensen says.

“This adaptive process helps us to find the balance between what students know and what they don’t know,” he says, “which is useful for

12 | Family Living at Its Best

teachers in understanding what concepts and content areas students are currently ready to learn, what needs to be reinforced and what students are ready to learn next.”

However, not all schools are using the MAP assessment. Some area schools use alternative assessment and growth measures like iReady, which is used, for example, by Hudson City Schools and Chagrin Falls Exempted Village Schools.

INTERPRETING RESULTS

MAP Growth results can be used when making decisions about the instructional and aspirational needs and goals of individual students, Jensen says.

For example, a teacher can differentiate classroom instruction to meet the needs of students who may be struggling in a certain area or for those students who are high-achieving but need to continue to be challenged.

NWEA has launched a new Family Report to help teachers have conversations with families about how their child is performing and growing. The report leverages MAP Growth data to illustrate achievement and growth in the subject areas tested, such as math, reading and science.

The Family Report will be a helpful tool for teachers during school conferences with families, and for students to help them understand their performance and set goals.

“These projections can also be the starting

point for a conversation with a student about his or her goals and aspirations, and can lead to a deep dive into what steps both the teacher and student need to take to make sure the goals that are set are both meaningful and attainable,” Jensen says.

ASSESSING GROWTH

LaTisha Grimes, executive director of assessments, testing and logistics for Cleveland Metropolitan School District (CMSD), says that when students finish their MAP Growth test, they receive a number called a RIT score for each area in which they are tested (reading, language usage, math or science). This score can help gauge a student’s pace and progress.

“This score represents a student’s achievement level at any given moment and helps measure their academic growth over time,” she says. “The RIT scale is a stable scale, like feet and inches, that accurately measures student performance, regardless of age, grades or grade level. Like marking height on a growth chart and being able to see how tall your child is at various points in time, you can also see how much they have grown between tests.”

Grimes says the purpose of MAP Growth is to determine what the student knows and is ready to learn next. MAP Growth can track students’ individual growth over time — wherever they are starting from and regardless of the grade they are in.

“For instance, if a second grader is actually reading like a sixth grader, MAP Growth will be able to identify that. Or, if a sixth grader is doing math like a second grader, MAP Growth will identify that, too,” Grimes says. “Both things are incredibly important for a teacher to know so that they can plan instruction efficiently.”

Christopher Broughton, Ph.D., executive director of data and accountability for Cleveland Metropolitan School District, says about 28,000 students annually take the test district-wide.

“What we’re seeing on state scores is pretty aligned with the NWEA (MAP Growth), and we know where the students are going to end up landing,” Broughton says. “Now, as far as the various grade levels, in our district, overall, we’ve been showing slight improvements each year.

“Where we do see (more significant growth) trends is within the year,” he continues. “During the year, however a student scores in the fall, they do show improvement at the end of the year.

There’s a lot of that kind of improvement at all schools.”

As of this year, CMSD administers the test to grades first through 10th in the fall and winter. Second- and third-graders will take the test in the fall, winter and spring. Summer testing is available for students who need additional assistance with their learning.

MAP Growth tests include multiple choice, drag and drop, and other types of questions.

Grimes says there are a number of common questions parents ask about MAP, including what the test measures and what can be learned from it, how often it’s administered and strategies to help students improve.

Grimes says one great place to start the dialogue is with the MAP Growth Student Profile report. The Student Profile report shows how the student did compared to national norms and projected proficiency on state summative tests.

“Just as a doctor has a chart indicating the most common heights and weights of people at certain ages, NWEA has put together charts showing the median RIT scores for students at various grade levels,” Grimes says. “NWEA researchers examined the scores of millions of students to find the average scores for students in various grades.”

It also highlights the instructional areas that represent the greatest opportunities for each student, so they can set and track growth goals going forward. For students and families interested in working toward growth goals over the summer, it provides specific instructional areas for which the student is ready.

SCORES AND READINESS

According to Jensen, MAP Growth results also can be used to predict proficiency on a state’s end-of-year summative test, or predict performance on measures of college readiness (ACT/

SAT). Using the latter information, a parent or teacher can use NWEA’s College Explorer tool to help a student see how his or her RIT score compares with the average student who gets accepted into colleges and universities across the country.

MAP Growth stats: (From NWEA)

● 172 partners use MAP Growth in the Cleveland metro area (both public and private schools) ● 10.2 million students nationwide: 47,500 regular school districts; 1,200 charter schools; 1,300 Catholic schools; and approximately 2,500 schools that are independent/not affiliated with a public school district, charter or Catholic church

HELPING YOUR KIDS

Parents can use the teacher’s feedback regarding the Parent Report’s strengths and areas of improvement given during student conferences, Grimes says. Parents also can continue to work at home with the child by utilizing Khan Academy and/or any other supplemental resources the teacher may have presented. Parents should always ask questions and be an active partner in their child’s learning process.

“Parents can use the resource of our ‘Academic Playbook — A Publication for CMSD Families’ created by our Family and Community Engagement Department within CMSD to assist parents on navigating their student through the year and the assessment process,” Grimes says.

Parents also can access short sample tests at warmup.nwea.org.

Communication and trust are key to fostering student success, according to Grimes.

Some teachers are always discovering ways to create meaningful parent-teacher relationships — from opening a clear channel of communication with their household to drawing parents into the school community through events and programs, such as text messaging, weekly notes, reminder apps and Google Docs.

She adds it’s important to note that growth scores are just one data point teachers use to determine how a student is performing. Grimes also encourages parents to discuss any questions they have about a child’s performance with the child’s teacher.

“When I talk to parents and teachers, I talk about how important it is that parents and teachers support each other, and help the child,”

says Dr. Sylvia Rimm, of Menlo Park Academy.

Rimm, a practicing psychologist specializing in gifted children, spends one day a week at the school. Previously, Rimm was a contributing correspondent to NBC’s “Today” show.

“What the attempt is, is to clearly measure children’s progress and the academic requirements of the school,” Rimm says. “The purpose is to measure growth, and that’s what parents are looking for.”

Although it’s not an exact science, she says from the parents’ perspective it becomes very important for them to look over the results to see what the child is doing and that there’s a reasonable consistency in the growth.

“It’s also important for them not to overreact if somehow the growth isn’t there, but to ask questions,” Rimm says.

If the growth is not there — for example, if there was a projected growth of 15 RITs and the actual growth was 13 — that would be nothing to worry about.

“However, if there was projected growth of 15 and the child’s actual growth was only five, then you would ask, ‘what happened?’ and the ‘what happened?’ could be many different things,” she says.

Rimm explains it could be that the child didn’t understand the material. It could be that the child is so far ahead, they were totally bored.

Or it could be that the child felt so unchallenged, they just couldn’t follow it.

“There’s so many possible interpretations of when there’s negative growth,” Rimm says.

“When there’s positive growth, there could be many interpretations, too. (If) the child actually grew as much as projected, or even more, you could say, ‘well, the child is really excited about this,’ or ‘the child needs more challenges,’ or ‘this is easy.’”

There are a lot of different ways that the growth can be projected, she says, but once a parent understands their own child and gets the pattern over the years, they can get the idea when something goes wrong.

“If there is a problem, they can’t just say it’s the teachers fault, or if the child says it’s boring, just accept it,” she says. “They have to really get underneath what’s gone wrong. That would be a time to set up a parent/teacher conference to get a better feel of what might be happening.”

The key issue for parents is to emphasize reasonable growth, because kids have all kinds of abilities, according to Rimm.

“We don’t expect everybody to be at the 95th percentile,” she says. “Some kids will be at the 50th percentile, but if they keep that 50th percentile, you know they are making the growth that fits with their abilities.”

October 2019 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 13

- SPONSORED CONTENT -

OCTOBER

NATIONAL DISABILITIES EMPLOYMENT AWARENESS MONTH

October is known for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. But did you know that October is also National Disability Employment Awareness Month? National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) is a time to recognize and celebrate what people of all abilities have to offer in the workforce.

14 | Family Living at Its Best

Employing People of All Abilities NDEAM began in 1945.

It was created to make our workforce inclusive for all Americans. Summit DD believes that workplace opportunities for people with disabilities not only ensures a diverse workforce, but also helps strengthen communities – now and into the future. That ’s why Summit DD, along with our community partners, is helping to create employment opportunities for people of all abilities.

This October, we encourage you to join us in celebrating National Disability Employment Awareness Month. Together, let’s build better workplaces for ever yone!

Get Inspired at SummitDD.org/NDEAM Read and share stories about programs that strengthen our community, people taking steps toward their career goals, and employees who are already making a difference in the workforce here in Summit County.

SummitDD.org/NDEAM

October 2019 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 15

Students can earn credits toward postsecondary education through programs offered in high school 16 | Family Living at Its Best

A

By Heather Tunstall

drianna Lakatos graduated this past May from Chardon High School. Like her classmates, she had spent her high school days doing the things she loved: drama club, attending football games and class events, and hanging out with her friends. But, as many of her class of 2019 classmates were just starting to think about going off to college, Adrianna was already looking at career opportunities.

That’s because Adrianna graduated high school already having completed her associate’s and bachelor’s degrees at local colleges.

She was 16 when she earned her associate of arts from Lakeland Community College in Kirtland. Just two weeks prior to walking with her Chardon High School graduating class at the age of 18, she earned her bachelor’s degree in communications with a minor in marketing from Lake Erie College in Painesville Township.

SET ON AN EARLY PATH Chardon High School offers College Credit Plus programming that allowed Adrianna to start taking college courses during her freshman year. College Credit Plus (CCP) is a dual-enrollment program in the state of Ohio that enables students from grades seventh through 12th to earn both high school and college credits simultaneously. Classes may be offered at the high school, online or on the college campus.

“I started off slowly my freshman year,” Adrianna says. “I took three classes at Chardon High School and two or three classes at Lakeland the first semester. I sort of eased into it to make sure I liked it.”

Adrianna Lakatos, a Chardon High School graduate, also earned an associate’s degree from Lakeland Community College in Kirtland and a bachelor’s degree from Lake Erie College in Panesville Township through the College Credit Plus program.

As she became accustomed to the rigor and schedule of the CCP program, she began to spend more and more time in college classrooms or completing courses online. She was accepted into Lake Erie College just before her junior year at Chardon, and she spent her last two years without a class at Chardon High School.

“It worked out better with my schedule, and there was a lot more responsibility and a lot more class offerings [on campus],” Adrianna says.

“What kind of helped me through that to keep some of the normal high school experience was that I was in the drama club all four years and did the all-age shows and stage crews. I was at my school, talking to kids my age, and at school functions. It kept me in the loop of what was going on.”

OPTIONS ABOUND While Adrianna’s path was anything but typical, it shows what’s possible for students who take advantage of the programs available for early college credit.

Depending on your school district, there may be several options that you and your child can explore.

CCP is offered to all students in the state of Ohio, including public, homeschool and non-public high school students. Other programs include Advanced Placement (AP) coursework, which enables college credit for a designated high school course that has been audited by the College Board; International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IB), which is available for 16- to 19-year-olds and is globally recognized for its focus on personal, professional and academic development; and Career Technical programming, which often is a partnership with technical institutions to further coursework in that field of study.

The availability of AP, IB and Career Tech programming varies across school districts, so the best route to take if you and your student are interested in earning post-secondary credit is to talk with your school’s guidance counselor.

IS IT RIGHT FOR YOUR STUDENT? There are a lot of things to consider when you and your child start thinking about post-secondary education. The most important is to know whether they are college-ready on both an academic and maturity level.

“Adrianna had always been involved, and even as early as elementary school she was taking advanced classes,” says Lisa Lakatos, Adrianna’s mother. “She always did her homework, she liked school, she was excited about school. So I always kind of knew that she was probably going to be involved with the program.”

To qualify for CCP, a student has to be accepted into the college where they’ll be taking classes, and meet all the entry requirements for courses, (just like they would if they were applying after high school,) Therefore, while there may not be a certain GPA for a given organization, there may be testing standards and placements that must be met.

Parents should remember that qualification and actual readiness can be two different things though, according to Heike Heinrich, director of student success programs at Cleveland State University.

“In CCP, the student is creating an academic record that will follow them wherever they go,” she says. “Students need to take their college classes seriously and do well in their coursework.

There are programs in which there is no ‘do-over’ or ‘starting from scratch.’ A bad grade in biology or chemistry can potentially disqualify students from highly selective programs in the future — like nursing, for example.”

Even though students as young as seventh grade can qualify for CCP, that may not be the best time to start them, she says.

“The actual time to sign up for CCP really depends on the student’s maturity level and the course location,” Heinrich says. “If the student physically takes the course on a college campus, parents should ask themselves: Is my child academically ready to complete college-level coursework? Is my child ready to commute to campus? Is my child emotionally ready to deal with adult and mature course content? Is my child ready to independently follow the social and academic rules and regulations in a college environment? If the answers to these questions are ‘yes,’ and their high school counselor has been consulted and concurs, it is time to sign up.”

Likewise, it’s equally important to know whether and how credits will transfer so that there aren’t any surprises after high school graduation.

“With any of these options — AP, IB, Career Technical courses, or CCP — it is important for students to consult with the college or university where they plan to attend to determine not only whether that institution will accept any or all of these options for college credit, but how that credit will apply to their intended college degree program,” says Johanna Pionke, director of alternative credit and articulation agreements at Kent State University.

BENEFITS OF EARLY COLLEGE CREDIT The advantages are huge if your student is a good fit for one of the programs — and it goes way beyond just getting college degrees faster.

“These courses provide opportunities for students to explore career interests, are academically challenging, and may enhance their college readiness and success,” Pionke says. “Some colleges with competitive admissions processes may weight applicants who have taken challenging coursework higher than applicants who choose not to take any of these. Depending upon the number of college credits earned, these options may reduce the time needed to earn a college degree, thus saving the student and their family money.”

- CONTINUED ON PAGE 18 -

October 2019 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 17

PREP WORK

“

YOU DEFINITELY DON’T NEED TO BE A VALEDICTORIAN, STRAIGHT-A, PERFECT STUDENT TO DO THIS. EVEN FOR ME, I WAS NEVER THAT STUDENT. AS LONG AS YOUR GPA MEETS YOUR HIGH SCHOOL’S REQUIREMENTS AND IT’S SOMETHING YOU WANT TO DO, YOU CAN DO IT.

”

— Adrianna Lakatos, Chardon High School graduate

Earning post-secondary credit through public high school programs often is tuition-free — including textbooks — up to a certain number of credits. That translates to incredible cost savings that could impact how a graduate starts off their adult life.

While the students are still in high school, these types of courses also can shape their study habits and help them decide what they’d like to do as a career.

“There’s also the experience,” says Karen Brown, director of strategic initiatives for

FamilyLiving Livingat atIts ItsBest Best 18 || Family 18

Euclid City School District. “How many college students change majors? How many decide what may or may not be for them and end up having an extended stay in college? With CCP, students are able to experiment a bit without the cost of that experimentation.”

Brown notes that there are several basic courses that all college students need to take that are particularly suited for CCP, particularly for those who aren’t positive about which career path they’d like to pursue.

The best resource available to parents and students when considering post-secondary education is their high school guidance counselor. They should work with you to understand the requirements and options available for your given school district, as well as the right fit for your student in terms of courses, workload and institutions.

Meeting with a high school counselor is the best way to talk through readiness and requirements, says Gabrielle Perrin, CCP coordinator for Shaker Heights High School and administrative assistant for the counseling department.

“You have to take a little time with your counselor to assess whether you can be admitted and then what courses you have to take,” she says. “You have to follow any prerequisites the college sets forth for any course. There’s also where your student is in their own personal growth and maturity, which is important as well. That’s up to the family to decide whether a student is ready or not.”

Brown advises that students, when talking with their counselors, “establish some goals and those goals should be around what the student’s interests are in both short-term and long-term.”

Also, counselors are connected to the contacts at universities, to whom they can refer you for specific questions about transferring credits and pursuing degrees.

“The high school counselor is great, but their knowledge (can be) limited,” Brown says. “The resources at the college understand the different pathways available at the college level and can help students navigate what needs to be done to maximize the number of credits they can get.

There are resources from both the college and high school that (students) can use.”

Adrianna offers advice to those who may think they’re not “good enough” students to pursue post-secondary education in high school.

“You definitely don’t need to be a valedictorian, straight-A, perfect student to do this,” she says. “Even for me, I was never that student. As long as your GPA meets your high school’s requirements and it’s something you want to do, you can do it.”

INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DIRECTORY

These schools across Northeast Ohio offer families many opportunities for academics, sports and more.

Check out the directory to see if a particular school is the right fit for your child.

October 2019 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 19

INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DIRECTORY

BEAUMONT SCHOOL

Beaumont School is the only all-girls’ high school in Northeast Ohio to offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme.

Sponsored by the Ursuline Sisters of Cleveland, Beaumont educates women for life, leadership and service.

Beaumont is where women learn to change the world. 3301 N. Park Blvd., Cleveland Hts., 216-325-1661, beaumontschool.org

BUCKEYE ONLINE SCHOOL FOR SUCCESS

Public, kindergarten through 12th grade, entirely tuition-free, online school open to all students from Ohio regardless of race, religion or financial status. The school provides every student with a computer to use throughout their duration enrolled.

While it typically follows a normal bell schedule, all students attend classes right from their computers in their own homes and classes are all live with stateaccredited teachers. go2boss.com

CLEVELAND METROPOLITAN SCHOOL DISTRICT

Yes, you can go to college or technical school after high school graduation!

CMSD or Cleveland residents who enroll as freshmen in a district high school and continue through graduation are eligible for Say Yes scholarships to college or technical school after graduation. sayyescleveland.org

CLEVELAND MONTESSORI SCHOOL

Cleveland Montessori has been serving the Little Italy and Greater Cleveland Community for 25 years.

Students from preschool through eighth grade are met with respect and compassion as they strive to meet their individual potential. Montessori provides an education for life and celebrates diversity, growth and joy. 12510 Mayfield Road, Cleveland, 216-421-0700, clevelandmontessori.org

CUYAHOGA VALLEY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

Cuyahoga Valley Christian Academy is a 6th-12th grade college-prep middle and high school committed to academic excellence in a supportive, distinctively Christian environment. Our biblically-integrated curriculum is delivered by a dedicated faculty serving students from seven counties on a 70-acre campus in Cuyahoga Falls. With more than $1.3 million given in financial assistant this year, a CVCA education is more affordable than you think. cvcaroyals.org

EDUCATION ALTERNATIVES

Education Alternatives is a therapeutic alternative program that provides special education and mental health services for children and adolescents in kindergarten through 12th grade in nine locations across Northeast Ohio. 5445 Smith Road, Cleveland, 216-332-9360, easchools.org, enrollment@easchools.org - CONTINUED ON PAGE 22 -

20 | Family Living at Its Best

October 2019 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 21

INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DIRECTORY

GESU CATHOLIC SCHOOL

Gesu Catholic School is an educational community created in partnership with students, their families and the Church of the Gesu. The school is proud to be part of the Diocese of Cleveland’s “Better Together: Exceptional Catholic education for every student” initiative and a “Designated STEM School” by the state of Ohio. 2450 Miramar Blvd., University Hts., 216-932-0620, gesu.com

GILMOUR ACADEMY

Gilmour Academy is a Catholic, independent, coeducational, college-preparatory school for day and resident students (18 mos.-12th grade).

Through small class sizes and strategic programming that facilitates faculty mentorship of students, the Gilmour experience is personalized. Whether through leadership initiatives, speech and debate training or off-campus internships, Gilmour students discover who they are called to be. 440-473-8000, gilmour.org/visit

22 | Family Living at Its Best

GROSS SCHECHTER DAY SCHOOL

Gross Schechter is a coed, Jewish independent school in Pepper Pike for children from 6 weeks through eighth grade. Gross Schechter inspires its students to love learning, become their best selves and embrace Jewish practice, values and community in a challenging and encouraging academic environment. 27601 Fairmount Blvd., Pepper Pike, 216-763-1400, grossschechter.org

HANNA PERKINS SCHOOL Hanna Perkins School preschool and kindergarten offers a nurturing environment, great academics and a focus on healthy social-emotional development. It also supports parents in the hard work they do.

In addition to the regular classrooms, offerings include parent-toddler group and an integrative program for young children with autism spectrum disorders.

19910 Malvern Road, Shaker Hts., 216-9914472, hannaperkins.org

HAWKEN SCHOOL

A coed, independent day school for toddlers through 12th grade. Hawken’s innovative schedule, early childhood center, 8,000 square feet of maker space and nationally recognized programming help to build the skills and confidence needed to thrive in a complex world. The Mastery School of Hawken, opening in University Circle in 2020, takes Hawken’s innovative high school programming to scale. Hawken Upper School, 12465 County Line Road, Gates Mills; Mastery School of Hawken, 11025 Magnolia Drive, Cleveland; Lower/Middle School, 5000 Clubside Road, Lyndhurst; 440-423-4446, hawken.edu

- CONTINUED ON PAGE 24 -

October 2019 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 23

INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DIRECTORY

LAKE RIDGE ACADEMY

Lake Ridge Academy is an independent kindergarten through 12th grade college preparatory school.

Families are drawn to the strong academic programs, engaging faculty, and 8:1 student to teacher ratio, which creates an educational environment that fuels a student’s passion for learning. Kindergarten includes learning through educational play, outdoor enrichment, and world languages. 37501 Center Ridge Road, North Ridgeville, 440-327-1175, lakeridgeacademy.org

MENLO PARK ACADEMY Menlo Park Academy is Northeast Ohio’s only tuition-free school for gifted children in grades kindergarten through 8th grade. The school offers an innovative, accelerated curriculum; flexible learning spaces; and the opportunity to find like-minded peers. Students maximize their talents while achieving academic, emotional and social success. Menlo Park Academy is ranked as one of Niche.com’s 250 Best Schools in the Nation. 2149 W. 53rd St., Cleveland, 440-925-6365, menloparkacademy.com

MONTESSORI SCHOOL OF UNIVERSITY HEIGHTS

Montessori School of University Heights is dedicated to helping each child become the unique person his/her Creator intended in a Christian atmosphere of peace, love and respect. The school provides individualized opportunities for growth that assist the child in developing concentration, independence, selfdiscipline, compassion, confidence and joy in learning. 23599 Cedar Road, 216-381-8388, ms-uh.org

24 | Family Living at Its Best

OHDELA

The Ohio Distance and Electronic Learning Academy is a tuition-free online public school for kindergarten through 12th grade. OHDELA empowers students to be their best by enabling them to learn in ways that are right for them — at home, at their proper level and at their own pace. 888-878-4530, OHDELA.com

OLD TRAIL SCHOOL

Old Trail School is an independent, coeducational day school for students age 2 through eighth grade situated on a picturesque, 62-acre campus in the heart of Cuyahoga Valley National Park. With a commitment to a dynamic environment of academic excellence, service learning and global sustainability, the school has inspired the best and brightest young people in the region for nearly 100 years. 2315 Ira Road, Bath, 330-666-1118, oldtrail.org

OUR SHEPHERD LUTHERAN

Joyfully serving Lake, Geauga and Ashtabula counties for 40 years, Our Shepherd is a kindergarten through eighth grade nationally accredited school of highly educated and caring staff. Full-day, five-day kindergarten; middle school enrichment program; computer technology with iPads, Chromebooks, and a dedicated computer lab; Smartboards in the classrooms; science lab; and enhanced library/media center.

508 Mentor Ave., Painesville, 440-3577776, oslpainesville.org, admissions@ oslpainesville.org

SPRING GARDEN WALDORF SCHOOL

The Waldorf philosophy is a developmental approach to education, which addresses the whole child — cognitive, social and creative — while meeting the needs of each individual through a challenging and multi-sensory environment. Preschool through eighth grade. 1791 S. Jacoby Road, Copley, 330-666-0574, sgws.org - CONTINUED ON PAGE 26 -

October 2019 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 25

INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DIRECTORY

ST. BARNABAS CATHOLIC SCHOOL

St. Barnabas Catholic School is a National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence ranging from preschool through eighth grade. St. Barnabas is a family, fostering lifelong relationships and a spirit of loyalty and pride. The school is dedicated to the spiritual, academic, social, physical and emotional development of all students. 9200 Olde Eight Road, Northfield, 330-467-7921, sbcatholicschool.com

ST. SEBASTIAN PARISH SCHOOL

Educating students from preschool through eighth grade, St. Sebastian is celebrating its 90th anniversary. The school continues to focus on the directive outlined in its mission statement of “excellence in education and commitment to Christ.” Students participate in handson, problem-based learning that is cross-curricular and features collaboration.

Outside the classroom, students can participate in many extracurricular activities. 500 Mull Ave., Akron, 330-8369107, stsebastian.org/school

KEEP READING... for more education information and open house events.

26 | Family Living at Its Best

THE LILLIAN AND BETTY RATNER MONTESSORI SCHOOL

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

VALLEY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

Valley Christian Academy is a private, pre-K through eighth grade school in Aurora. VCA offers a Christ-centered, loving environment with challenging academics.

Its quiet and caring environment is home to enrichment programs, a one-of-a-kind STEAM strategy, extracurriculars and so much more. 1037 East Blvd., Aurora, 330-562-8191, valleychristian.com

October 2019 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 27

Education NEWS

Western Reserve Academy’s New Head of School Brings a Sense of Home to Students

E

By Angela Gartner

ducation was everything in Suzanne Walker Buck’s family childhood home.

The recently named head of school at Western Reserve Academy says her parents were first-generation high school and college graduates.

Buck also had some milestones in her life.

She and her brother were the first in their family to attend a boarding school. She graduated from Miss Porter’s School in Connecticut and Fay School in Massachusetts.

“My parents saw the value of what a boarding school could offer to me,” she says. “It was an opportunity to live with students from all over the world and to meet people who were different than those who lived in my community. That just opened my eyes to a world that was so much bigger.”

She adds the school provided her with the benefits and opportunities to engage with teachers about different ideas and to learn in a much more extensive way.

“That really influenced me and my desire to work at a boarding school environment,” Buck says. “I wanted to be in a school that was holistic and all-encompassing.”

She also is the first woman appointed to the position of head of school at the coeducation preparatory school in Hudson.

“I am super honored to be a part of Western Reserve Academy and at a school

28 | Family Living at Its Best

that has been in existence for nearly 200 years,” Buck says. “My predecessors did incredible work to bring the school to where it is today. I don’t know if I think it’s remarkable that I am a woman. I just think I am the right leader for the school at this point.

I am proud to be a woman. I am excited to break a barrier, but I just want to be seen as a strong leader.”

When asked why she chose Western Reserve Academy for her new home after serving as head of school at Chatham Hall in Virginia, she says, “I fell in love with the spirit of the school. The values of the institution align with who I am as an educator and person.”

For students, Buck says she wants to bring a sense of welcoming and inclusion whether they are a boarder or a day student, adding there are plans for hosting fireside chats, movies and other events to help the kids feel like they belong.

“We want to create a sense of home for everyone,” she says. “We want to look at the concept of joy — how do we define joy, where does it exist and how can we acknowledge and create additional space for it to emerge.

“I see (joy) as not just an emotion, but a state of being,” Buck says, adding the school will think about joy when planning

Su

za n

u n e W a lk e r B

ck

curriculum and activities for students.

“The benefits for boarders are the same ones for day students,” she adds. “They, too, have the opportunity to go to school with kids from all over the world whose ideas are different from their own perspective. They get to benefit from the global community and they also get to contribute to it by sharing about themselves, their families and their local environment.”

Buck hopes to create more partnerships with the Hudson community and show how Western Reserve Academy can be a good neighbor by collaborating with local organizations for different purposes.

“We are loving Northeast Ohio,” she says of her family, husband Johnny Buck, an art teacher, coach and advisor at Western Reserve Academy, and their daughter Halsey who moved to the region this summer. Buck also has two stepchildren, Oliver, 19, and Nina, 21. “We look at Cleveland as a vibrant, exciting city. There is a cultural scene, arts, athletics, national parks — there is just so much to do.”

MONTESSORI SCHOOL OF

UNIVERSITY HEIGHTS FOUNDED 1968

THREE YEAR PROGRAM BEGINNING AT AGE THREE

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

October 2019 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 29

30 | Family Living at Its Best

OPEN HOUSES FALL 2019

ANDREWS OSBORNE ACADEMY 38588 Mentor Ave., Willoughby 440-942-3600, andrewsosborne.org Oct. 17-20: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. (Drop In Days) BEAUMONT SCHOOL 3301 N. Park Blvd., Cleveland Hts. 216-321-2954, beaumontschool.org Nov. 13: 5:30-7 p.m.

CLEVELAND MONTESSORI SCHOOL 12510 Mayfield Road, Cleveland 216-421-0700, clevelandmontessori.org Nov. 2: 2-4 p.m.

CUYAHOGA VALLEY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 4687 Wyoga Lake Road, Cuyahoga Falls 330-929-0575, cvcaroyals.org Oct. 18: 5-7 p.m.

GILMOUR ACADEMY 34001 Cedar Road, Gates Mills 440-473-8050, gilmour.org/visit Oct. 27: noon (Upper School) HANNA PERKINS SCHOOL 19910 Malvern Road, Shaker Hts. 216-991-4472, hannaperkins.org Nov. 6: 4-6 p.m.

JOSEPH & FLORENCE MANDEL JEWISH DAY SCHOOL 26500 Shaker Blvd., Beachwood 216-464-4055, lsimon@mandeljds.org Nov. 14: 8:30 a.m.

(Sneak-a-Peek at Kindergarten) LAKE RIDGE ACADEMY 37501 Center Ridge Road, North Ridgeville 440-327-1175, lakeridgeacademy.org Oct. 20: 1 p.m.

LAKEWOOD CATHOLIC ACADEMY 14808 Lake Ave., Lakewood 216-521-0559, lakewoodcatholicacademy.com Oct. 20: noon-2 p.m.

(Early Childhood & Kindergarten) LAWRENCE SCHOOL

Lower School 1551 E. Wallings Road, Broadview Hts. 440-526-0717, lawrenceschool.org Oct. 16: 8:30-10:30 a.m.

Upper School 10036 Olde Eight Road, Sagamore Hills 440-526-0717, lawrenceschool.org Oct. 24: 6-8 p.m.

LAUREL SCHOOL

Lyman Campus 1 Lyman Circle, Shaker Hts. Oct. 3: 5-7 p.m. (Open House) Butler Campus 7420 Fairmount Road, Novelty 216-464-1441, laurelschool.org Oct. 3: 5-7 p.m.

THE LILLIAN AND BETTY RATNER SCHOOL 27575 Shaker Blvd., Pepper Pike 216-464-0033, theratnerschool.org Oct. 28: 6-7 p.m.

(Elementary and Middle School) Oct. 11 & 25, Nov. 8: 9-10:30 a.m.

(Toddler and Children’s House) THE LIPPMAN SCHOOL 750 White Pond Drive, Akron 330-836-0419, thelippmanschool.org Nov. 7: 9-11 Nov. 10: 1-3 p.m.

LITTLEST ANGELS PRESCHOOL 923 Pearl Road, Brunswick 330-460-7301, saintambroseschool.us Nov. 10: 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

HATHAWAY BROWN SCHOOL 19600 N. Park Blvd., Shaker Hts. 216-932-4214, hb.edu/openhouse Monthly (Middle and Upper School) Nov. 2: 10-11:30 a.m. (Infant, Toddler, Early Childhood, Primary School) HAWKEN SCHOOL

Lower & Middle Schools 5000 Clubside Road, Lyndhurst 440-423-4446, hawken.edu Oct. 15: 9 a.m. (Parent Visit) Nov. 10: 1 p.m. (Open House)

Upper School 12465 County Line Road, Gates Mills 440-423-4446, hawken.edu Oct. 17: 8:30 a.m. (Parent Visit) Nov. 3: 1-3 p.m. (Open House)

Mastery School Magnolia Drive, University Circle 440-423-2955, hawken.edu Oct. 13: 1 p.m. (Informational Session) Nov. 17 (Open House) HERSHEY MONTESSORI Upper School - Huntsburg Campus 11530 Madison Road, Huntsburg Twp. 440-636-6290, hershey-montessori.org Oct. 7, Nov. 4: 9-11 a.m.

(Visitors’ Days) HOLY NAME HIGH SCHOOL 6000 Queens Hwy., Parma Hts. 440-886-0300, holynamehs.com Oct. 5: noon-3 p.m.

Visit NortheastOhioParent.com to subscribe to Monday’s “The Buzz” e-newsletter to learn about the featured “School of the Week.

October 2019 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 31

MAGNIFICAT 20770 Hilliard Blvd., Rocky River 440-331-1572, magnificaths.org Oct. 6: 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

MENLO PARK ACADEMY 2149 W. 53rd St., Cleveland 440-925-6365, menloparkacademy.com Oct. 19: 10-11:30 a.m. (Open House) Nov. 12: 5:30-7 p.m. (Information Night) THE MUSIC SETTLEMENT

University Circle Campus 11125 Magnolia Drive, Cleveland 216-421-5806, themusicsettlement.org Nov. 10: 1-2:30 p.m. (Early Childhood)

Ohio City Campus 2610 Detroit Ave., Cleveland 216-377-1410, themusicsettlement.org Oct. 2: 4-6 p.m. (Therapy Open House) Nov. 10: 1-2:30 p.m. (Early Childhood) NOTRE DAME-CATHEDRAL LATIN SCHOOL 13000 Auburn Road, Chardon 440-286-6226, ndcl.org Oct. 2 & 29: 6-8 p.m.

OLD TRAIL SCHOOL 2315 Ira Road, Bath 330-666-1118, oldtrail.org Nov. 10: 1-2:30 p.m.

OUR LADY OF THE ELMS SCHOOL 1375 W. Exchange St., Akron 330-836-9384, theelms.org Oct. 20, Nov. 10: noon-2 p.m.

32 | Family Living at Its Best

PADUA FRANCISCAN HIGH SCHOOL 6740 State Road, Parma 440-845-2444, paduafranciscan.com Oct. 20: 1-4 p.m.

Oct. 21: 6-8 p.m.

St. Basil Campus 8700 Brecksville Road, Brecksville 440-717-0398, stmichaelschoolinfo.com/st-basil-campus Nov. 3: 1-3 p.m. (Both Campuses)

SAINT AMBROSE SCHOOL 923 Pearl Road, Brunswick 330-460-7301, saintambroseschool.us Nov. 10: 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

TRINITY HIGH SCHOOL 12425 Granger Road, Garfield Hts. 216-581-1644, ths.org Oct. 27: 10 a.m.-12:45 p.m.

SAINT JOSEPH ACADEMY 3470 Rocky River Drive, Cleveland 216-251-6788, sja1890.org Oct. 20: 1-4 p.m.

UNIVERSITY SCHOOL

SETON CATHOLIC SCHOOL 6923 Stow Road, Hudson 330-342-4200, setoncatholicschool.org Nov. 10: 2-4 p.m.

ST. BARNABAS SCHOOL 9200 Olde 8 Road, Northfield 330-467-7921, sbcatholicschool.com Oct. 30: 5:30-7 p.m.

Hunting Valley Campus (Grades 9-12) 2785 SOM Center Road, Hunting Valley 216-831-2200, us.edu Oct. 20: 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Shaker Heights Campus (Junior Kindergarten-Grade 8) 20701 Brantley Road, Shaker Hts. 216-321-8260, us.edu Oct. 20: 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

ST. SEBASTIAN PARISH SCHOOL

VILLA ANGELA-ST. JOSEPH HIGH SCHOOL 18491 Lakeshore Blvd., Cleveland 216-481-8414, vasj.com Oct. 13: 1 p.m.

Nov. 6: 6 p.m.

ST. MICHAEL SCHOOL

WESTERN RESERVE ACADEMY 115 College St., Hudson 330-650-9717, wra.net Nov. 2: 10 a.m.

Day School 500 Mull Ave., West Akron 330-836-9107, stsebastian.org/school Nov. 8: 8:15-10:30 a.m. (Explorer Day) St. Michael Campus 6906 Chestnut Road, Independence 216-524-6405, stmichaelschoolinfo.com

October 2019 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 33

34 | Family Living at Its Best

PUT best

FRIGHT FACE story by

MICHÉLE BAILEY

photos by

ANGELA GARTNER

October October 2019 2019 -- NortheastOhioParent.com NortheastOhioParent.com

|| 35 35

H

Halloween is right around the corner — and there is still so much to do!

Shopping for candy, decorations and apple cider. Picking and carving pumpkins. Deciding if the kids will trick-or-treat in the neighborhood, throw a party, or do both. Then there’s the timeconsuming effort of helping the kids design their fright-night look.

And let’s not forget that all of this has to be done while attending to other needs at home, work and school.

The truth is that most often, you just run out of time and have to throw together last-minute costumes — but last-minute looks don’t have to be boring. To make your kids’ Halloween looks unique, fun and exciting, all you need are simple make-up products that you likely have at home and a bit of imagination.

Cleveland Makeup Artistry Founder Karin Dodge (clevelandmakeupartistry.com) says black liquid eyeliner, white COMIC BOOK eyeliner, neutral foundations CHARACTER, and concealers, and red age 4, Shaker Heights lipsticks are all great products to use to create Halloween Makeup / makeup looks for kids. Her KARIN DODGE hair /Jess Bueno company, which is known for providing wedding and event You can get this comic book look in just a few simple steps. makeup, also offers services for You’ll need two foundations, one several shades lighter and Halloween. one several shades darker than natural skin tone. Contour Dodge and her team provide the sides of the face, nose and eyes using the darker shade. us with four ways to use at-home Contour the center of the face, forehead, nose and chin with makeup products to create fun and the lighter color. Then use a black eyeliner pen to draw lines memorable Halloween looks for on the face. Be sure to color in nostrils black, line the lips, kids — and find tips that make the fill in the eyebrows, draw on ears and re-create the hairline process quick and easy! to create the illusion. Use colored hair spray to change the color of the hair.

Hunter

36 | Family Living at Its Best

Melora

cat, age 4, Shaker Heights Makeup / K arin Dodge hair / Jess Bueno

Ready to leap into the Halloween spirit with this cat look?

Use a white eyeliner to draw around the mouth and set with powder highlighter. Then, use a black liquid eyeliner to make dots on the cheeks. Add a triangle on the nose and connect it by lining it to the top lip, which you should color black. Cover the eyelid with black eyeliner, and extend it outward to create a cat-eye. Draw eyelashes above the crease, and along the lower lash line. To accentuate the cat eye, draw triangles on the inner corners of the eyes. Lastly, draw tabby marks in between the eyebrows with a liquid eyeliner pen. pro tip For the most comfortable work position, make sure you’re sitting eye-to-eye with your child while doing the makeup.

Penelope spider, age 4, Shaker Heights

Makeup / mylinh zagorsky hair / Jess Bueno

Cute creepy crawler on call. First, paint a vertical line on the face starting at the forehead and then two more vertical lines on the sides of the forehead. Then, draw curved swooped lines to connect the vertical lines. Use the liquid eyeliner pen to draw the spider.

To create the body of the spider, draw a small oval and then a large oval underneath and fill it in. When drawing the legs of the spider, make sure to start from the middle of the ovals, which is where they connect. For the hair, gather a hair donut, bobby pins, googly eyes, glue, black pipe cleaner, and a craft pom pom. Slick the hair back into a tight ponytail. Create a perfect bun by using a hair donut and bobby pins. Glue googly eyes on the pom pom and pin to the center of the bun. Bend six pipe cleaners to look like spider legs, and secure into the sides of the bun.

October2019 2019--NortheastOhioParent.com NortheastOhioParent.com October

37 || 37

Grey

PRO TIP

Achieving a consistent

skeleton, age 4, cleveland

look using white is

shimmering highlighter or loose powder over it to make it more even.

Dare to terrify with this fun and spooky skeletal face. First start by making a large black circle around the eyes and fill the circle in with black eyeshadow all the way over the eyelids. Paint the lines on the nose black, make a triangle on the nose and then fill it in with black. Next, paint black stitches around the lips and paint them black. Lastly, paint the face white with Halloween makeup using a brush or your fingers. Set it with a little compact makeup powder. Use gel and a fine tooth comb to slick the hair back. If desired, use colored hair spray to change the color of the hair.

HALLOWEEN

K

SAFETY

Kooky and spooky Halloween will soon be here, bringing giggles, laughter and nightmarish scares. Witches with candy are at the kids’ service, but some parents are feeling quite nervous.

“I am very nervous about trick-or-treating every year,” says Brianne Fullen, of Wellington.

This year, she is taking her 7- and 8-year-olds around the neighborhood and has plans to keep her kids safe.

“We choose local streets that we are familiar with so that at the very least, we know the people a little bit,” she says. “Before the kids eat the candy, we check the wrappers and cut the candy bars in half to make sure no one slipped anything inside.”

While tainted candy is a fear for many parents, the likelihood of kids getting hit by a car increases on Halloween. According to the National Safety Council, children are twice as likely to be hit by a car and killed on Halloween than on any other day of the year. Akron Police Department’s Sergeant Brent Baukenecht offers safety tips for drivers.

“If you are driving, use caution when entering and exiting driveways,” he says. “Watch for children walking on roadways, medians and curbs.

Slow down and take your time because there is increased pedestrian traffic ... Lastly, turn your headlights on even in the early evening and eliminate all distractions, including your cell phone.”

To help ensure that Northeast Ohioans have a spooktacular and safe Halloween celebration, Baukenecht offers a list of Halloween safety tips for trick-or-treaters and those passing out candy.

allergy-safe 38 | Family Living at Its Best

For more information about makeup tips, visit clevelandmakeupartistry.com

Makeup / mylinh zagorsky hair / Jess Bueno

tricky. Try dusting a

before leaving the house: • Make sure the costumes fit well to prevent tripping.

• Ensure masks don't restrict vision.

• Consider having everyone in your party wear reflectors.

on the trail:

• Never go trick-or-treating alone.

• Plan your entire route. If your older kids go out, be sure to know where they are going.

• Take your cell phone with you.

• Cross streets at crosswalks only.

• Walk against the traffic on sidewalks.

• Go only to houses with lights on, but never go into anyone’s house, garage, car, camper or vehicle.

passing out candy:

• Restrain your pets.

• Check that your lights are in good working order.

• Keep your walkway free of clutter.

• Put candle-lit pumpkins on a steady surface and/or consider lighting pumpkins by flashlights.

before eating candy:

• Discard candy with strange markings.

• Throw out homemade candy.

— MICHÈLE L. BAILEY

aiming to be peanut-free?

Keep Halloween safe and fun for all with the Teal Pumpkin Project. Find out more online at NortheastOhioParent.com

FAMILY FROLIC & FALL FUN PICK YOUR DAY FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS Halloween Hayrides. Travel down a one-mile trail on a Halloween hayride filled with family-oriented thrills, chills and adventure. Beginning 10/11. 6:30-8:30 p.m Lake Metroparks Farmpark, 8800 Euclid Chardon Road, Kirtland, 440-256-2122, lakemetroparks.com Halloween Fair. Haunted trail, Choo and wagon rides, food, games, fun and entertainment. 4:30-10 p.m.

Carlisle Reservation, 12882 Diagonal Road, Lagrange, metroparks.cc

FRIDAYS-SUNDAYS

Boo at the Zoo. Cleveland’s sweetest Halloween tradition featuring unlimited 4-D Theater movies, carousel and train rides, hay maze, Trick-or-Treat Street, plus three weekends to choose from beginning 10/11. 5-9 p.m.

Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, 3900 Wildlife Way, 216-661-6500. futureforwildlife.org/boo

Boo at the Zoo. Bring the whole family out to this “merry-not-scary” Halloween event of heroic proportions.

Beginning 10/11. Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, 4850 Powell Road, Powell, columbuszoo.org Captain NEO’S Hauntaquarium. With welcoming bandana-andbreeches-wearing stilt walkers and an indoor trickor-treat treasure trail, Captain NEO’s Hauntaquarium is a warm, protected and notso-spooky way to celebrate Halloween. Oct. 18, 19, 25, 26 & 27. Greater Cleveland Aquarium, 2000 Sycamore St., Cleveland, 216-862-8803, greaterclevelandaquarium. com

SATURDAYS

Hayrides at the Chalet. Enjoy tractor drawn public hayrides.

6-10 p.m. Mill Stream Reservation, The Chalet, 16200 Valley Pkwy., Strongsville, clevelandmetroparks.com

SATURDAYS & SUNDAYS

Boo at the Zoo. Dress your little ghosts and goblins in their costumes for everyone’s favorite non-scary Halloween event. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Beginning 10/12. Akron Zoo, 504 Euclid Ave., 330-375-2550, akronzoo.org Old West Pumpkin Fest. Includes unlimited activities for one low price: hayrides, pony rides, live costume character show, petting farm, Children’s Haunted House in 3D, etc. Rockin’-RRanch, 19066 E. River Road, Columbia Station, 440-2365454, clevelandhayride.com Pumpkin Festival. Hay maze, corn maze, wagon ride with live scarecrows, all-you-can-carry pumpkins and face painting.

Red Wagon Farm, 16081 E. River Road, Columbia Station, redwagonfarm.com I-X Trick or Treat Street. Park rides, candy stations and more for little ghosts and goblins. 10/19-20 and 10/26-27 11 a.m.-7 p.m. I-X Center, 6200 Riverside Drive, Cleveland, ixtrickortreatstreet.com

THROUGH 10/6

Fall Fun. Celebrate the onset of fall with an old-fashioned hay wagon ride and try your navigation skills through the six-acre corn maze. Noon3:30. Equestrian Center, 13630 Diagonal Road, LaGrange, metroparks.cc

THROUGH 10/27

Fun Fest. Play in the hay stacks and corn crib, climb the tree house in the woods, slide down the 50-foot double slide, wander through the corn maze and more. Patterson Farms, 8765 Mulberry Road, Chesterland, 440-729-9809, pattersonfarm.com

THROUGH 10/29

Pumpkin Pandemonium.

Bring the family to go on a scavenger hunt, get lost in the Harvest Maze and take a relaxing hayride touring around the farm. Heritage Farms, 6050 Riverview Road, Peninsula, heritagefarms.com

THROUGH 10/31

Spooky Ranch. Extreme Nightmares Haunted House, Famous Haunted Hayride, Haunted Barn, Monster Visions in 3D Haunted House, and Zombie Paint Ball Hunt in 3D. Rockin’-R-Ranch 19066 E. River Road, Columbia Station, spookyranch.com Family Fun on the Farm.

Four-acre corn maze, crate maze, straw maze, new barrel train, new gigantic sandbox and much more. Hillcrest Orchards, 50336 Telegraph Road, Amherst, 440-965-8884, hillcrestfunfarm.com

October 2019 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 39

FAMILY FROLIC & FALL FUN THROUGH 10/31

LAKE METROPARKS FARMPARK

Corn & Pumpkin Festival October 5 & 6, 12 & 13 9 am to 5 pm

Fall Festival at Nickajack Farms.

Discovery Barn, farm animals, Rascal Round Up, tire dragons, obstacle course, hay maze and much more.

2955 Manchester Ave. NW, North Lawrence, nickajackfarms.com

THROUGH 11/30

Fall Hiking Spree. Get out and explore. Complete at least eight designated hikes to earn hiking staff (first-year hikers) and shield. summitmetroparks.org Trekking Through Autumn. Get out and explore your Medina County parks through this self-guided hiking program. First-year hikers earn a backpack, and veteran hikers earn a pin. medinacountyparks.com

THROUGH 12/31

LAKEMETROPARKS.COM

Wild Hikes Challenge 2019.

Walk, hike, skip, jog, run or stroll on eight designated trails before Dec. 31 to earn a hiking staff (first year) and/or a 2019 Wild Hikes medallion. portgageparkdistrict.org

DAY-BY-DAY 10/2

Fall Photography Walk. Join Ohio landscape photographer, writer and educator Ian Adams for a photography walk in the gardens during the peak of fall color and hear tips on garden and fall photography. 2-4 p.m. Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, 714 N. Portage Path, Akron, 330-863-5533, stanhywet.org Fall Festival at Our Shepherd Lutheran School. Pumpkin decorating contest, crafts, storywalk, games, prizes and much more.

6-8 p.m. 508 Mentor Ave., Painesville, oslpainesville.org

10/4

Fall Family Night. Gather everyone up and enjoy hands-on fall activities for the kids, dinner, planetarium programs, live wildlife encounters and hayrides for all ages. 6-9 p.m. Lake Erie Nature & Science Center, 28728 Wolf Road, Bay Village, 440-871-2900, lensc.org

10/5

Fall Fest and Horse Show. This family-friendly event will include a horse show, Halloween activities and contests, bake sale and clam bake. Noon-5 p.m. Medina Creative Therapy Ranch, 5200 Lake Road, medinacreativehousing.com Scarecrow Extravaganza. Families use imagination to build a life-sized scarecrow for the autumn season.

10 a.m.-1 p.m. Cleveland Botanical Garden, 11030 East Blvd., 216-721-1600, cbgarden.org

40 | Family Living at Its Best

Fall Family Outing. Fall into autumn fun with free hayrides, bonfires, naturalist activities, live music, apple cider and more. 5-9 p.m. Goodyear Hts. Metropark, 2077 Newton St., Akron, summitmetroparks.org Bauman Orchards Fall Festival. Live music, pony rides, hay maze, petting zoo, wagon rides and more. Bauman Orchards, 161 Rittman Ave., Rittman, baumanorchards.com DeBord’s 24th Annual Halloween Festival. Free, family-friendly community event open to the public.

Noon-9 p.m. Derby Downs, 789 Derby Downs, Akron, debordhalloweenfestival.com

10/5-6

Jump into Fall Days. Horsedrawn wagon rides, kayaking, fishing, face painting, balloon creations and more. 1-5 p.m.

Swine Creek Reservation, 16004 Hayes Road, Middlefield Twp., geaugaparkdistrict.org Goblins in the Garden. Bring your children in costumes to trick or treat during daylight hours in decorated gardens. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Holden Arboretum, 9500 Sperry Road, Kirtland, 440-946-4400, holdenarb.org Horse-Drawn Fall Hay Wagon Rides and Corn Maze. What better way to enjoy the sights of fall than with an afternoon of family-oriented fun? Noon3:30 p.m. Equestrian Center of Carlisle Reservation, 13630 Diagonal Road, LaGrange, metroparks.cc

10/5-6 & 12-13

Hale Harvest Festival.

Celebrate the fall bounty amid the sights, smells and tastes of the Cuyahoga Valley. 10 a.m.5 p.m. Hale Farm & Village, 2686 Oak Hill Road, Bath, 330666-3711, wrhs.org Corn & Pumpkin Festival.

Help husk, shell and grind the corn or plow behind draft horses while younger visitors make handmade corn husk dolls and paint pumpkins. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Lake Metroparks Farmpark, 8800 Euclid Chardon Road, Kirtland, 440256-2122, lakemetroparks.com

10/11

The Lifecycle of a Pumpkin.

How does a pumpkin grow and change? Let’s explore the lifecycle of a pumpkin with hands-on experiments and activities. Ages 4-6. 4 p.m.

Westlake Porter Public Library, 27333 Center Ridge Road, 440871-2600, westlakelibrary.org

10/11-12 & 18-19

Spooky Science. A unique, fun and educational event.

What a perfect time of year to celebrate and educate about the natural world.

4:30-8:30 p.m. Beech Creek Gardens, 1929 Beech St. NE, Alliance, 330-829-7050, beechcreekgardens.org

10/12

Family Fall Fest. Costumes are encouraged for Stark Parks’ free, non-scary seasonal event featuring a .25-mile Treat Trail, inflatables and Critter Carnival with live animals. 2-6 p.m. Petros Lake Park, Perry Drive North Entrance, Canton, starkparks.com

10/13

Pumpkin Festival. Enjoy beautiful autumn foliage, food, rides, animals, entertainment, games, crafts and fun for the whole family.

10 a.m.-4 p.m. Hiram House Camp, 33775 Hiram Trail, Chagrin Falls, 216-831-5045, hiramhousecamp.org Not-So-Spooky Stories & Campfire. Sit beneath the light of the moon to enjoy marshmallows and hear nighttime tales. 7-8 p.m. F. A. Seiberling Nature Realm, 1828 Smith Road, Akron, 330-8658065, summitmetroparks.org

10/14

Pumpkin Decorating Contest.

Bring the whole family to the Lake Branch to decorate a pumpkin and enter it into a contest for a chance to win a prize. Dress for a mess. 6:30 p.m. 5642 Andrews Road, Mentor-on-the-Lake, 440257-2512, mentorpl.org

Spooktober Night at the Movies. Dress up in your Halloween costume and enjoy an outdoor showing of “Hocus Pocus.” 7-9 p.m. Mentor Public Library, 8215 Mentor Ave., 440-255-8811, mentorpl.org

10/18-19

Magical Whooloween.

Celebrate all things owl as you take a guided night hike, make a craft, listen to fireside tales, join a costume parade and more. 5:30-10 p.m.

Penitentiary Glen Reservation, 8668 Kirtland Chardon Road, Willoughby, 440-256-1404, lakemetroparks.com Boo-tanical Bash. Boo-tanical Bash is back with a witches’ brew of new family-friendly fun, experiencing Halloween in the gardens. Cleveland Botanical Garden, 11030 East Blvd., Cleveland, 216-721-1600, cbgarden.org

10/18-20

Fall Festival of Leaves.

Festivities include arts, crafts, entertainment, flea markets, midways, parades, and a pedal tractor pull. Bainbridge, fallfestivalofleaves.com

10/19

Haunted Gingerbread Houses. Families are invited to assemble and decorate a haunted gingerbread house together. 11 a.m.-noon and noon-1 p.m. Kent Free Library, 312 W. Main St., Kent, 330-6734414, kentfreelibrary.org

October 2019 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 41

FAMILY FROLIC & FALL FUN 10/19

Spooky Pooch Parade.

The downtown area will be filled with proud pet owners parading their dogs dressed in the finest Halloween fashions.

12:30-3:30 p.m. Kauffman Park, 15450 Detroit Ave., Lakewood, lakewoodalive.com Halloween All Aboard! Bring your family and friends to this “spooktacular” event and ride the train in costume.

6:30-8:30 p.m. Lester Rail Trail, 3654 Lester Road, Medina, medinaparks.com

10/20

Fall Color Hike. Hike in search of the beautiful colors of the season. 2-3 p.m. Miller Nature Preserve, 2739 Center Road, Avon, 440-937-0764, metroparks.cc

10/24

Scare on the Square. Zombie Thriller dance, trick or treat, contests and more. 5-8 p.m. Downtown Wadsworth, mainstreetwadsworth.org Trick or Treat on South High Street. Break out your costume early for a family-friendly Halloween party where you can explore the museum in surprising ways. 6-8:30 p.m.

Akron Art Museum, 1 S. High St., 330-376-9185, akronartmuseum.org Halloween Fashion Show.

All ages are encouraged to walk the red carpet to show off your costumes. 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Medina County District Library, 210 S. Broadway St., 330-7250588, mcdl.info

Boo-tique Trick-or-Treating.

Bring the kids in costume for some Halloween fun inside the mall. 5-7 p.m.

Eton Chagrin Blvd., 28601 Chagrin Blvd., Woodmere, etonchagrinblvd.com BLAST Halloween Celebration.

BLAST’S mission is to provide safe social and recreational activities to people with developmental disabilities.

6-8:30 p.m. Temple Israel, 91 Springside Drive, Akron, summitdd.org

10/25

Trunk-or-Treat. Enjoy trick-ortreating with a twist. Park your decorated car in the library parking lot and bring candy to pass out to the kids.

6 p.m. Bainbridge Library, 17222 Snyder Road, Chagrin Falls, 440-543-5611, geaugalibrary.net Halloween Celebration & Hayride. Trick or treat through the Wildlife Gardens, make a craft, hop on a hayride, enjoy a holiday show in the planetarium and more.

6-9 p.m. Lake Erie Nature & Science Center, 28728 Wolf Road, Bay Village, 440-8712900, lensc.org Halloween at the “Boo-seum.”

Annual Halloween party and trick or treat in the Street of Shops and Discover World, plus hayrides, scavenger hunt and science shows. 6-8:30 p.m. McKinley Museum, 800 McKinley Monument Drive NW, Canton, 330-455-7043, mckinleymuseum.org

42 | Family Living at Its Best

10/25-27

Spooktacular Science. Bring along your witch or wizard hat as you experiment with spooky hands-on activities and Halloween-themed demonstrations. Guests of all ages are sure to enjoy this family-friendly party. Great Lakes Science Center, 601 Erieside Ave., Cleveland, 216694-2000, greatscience.com

10/26

10/27

Hocking Halloween Campout.

Join the Haunted Hocking team as they search for the unexplained at Ash Cave or try your hand at pumpkin decorating, hayride, a family fun spooky movie and more.

Hocking Hills State Park, Old Man’s Cave, 19852 State Rt. 664, Logan, thehockinghills.org Halloween Skate Costume Party. Bring the kids in costume to this family-friendly fun event. 8:30-10:30 p.m. Mentor Civic Ice Arena, 8600 Munson Road, cityofmentor.com Tricks & Treats. Celebrate Halloween with a day full of fall fun, including food trucks, The Halloween Express, pet costume contest and trick-ortreating. Noon-4 p.m. Crocker Park, 189 Crocker Park Blvd., Westlake, crockerpark.com Haunted Gingerbread Houses.

Bring your family to this fun, festive program to build your own haunted gingerbread house. 1 or 3 p.m. Hudson Library & Historical Society, 96 Library St., 330-653-6658, hudsonlibrary.org

10/26-27

Spooky Fest. Kids are invited to dress up in their costumes and enjoy pumpkin village to the fullest. 10 a.m.-9 p.m. & 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Mapleside Farms, 294 Pearl Road, Brunswick, mapleside.com

Mysteries of the Manor Trail Hayride. Enjoy a hayride and hear the “mysteries of the Manor Trail,” decorate a pumpkin, hunt for treatfilled pumpkins, climb a hay pyramid, dance to a DJ and more. 2-4 p.m. Wildwood Cultural Center, 7645 Little Mountain Road, Mentor, cityofmentor.com Family Concert Halloween Spooktacular. An afternoon of deliciously frightening musical fun. Come dressed in your Halloween best for a costume contest for audience members. 2 p.m. Severance Hall, 11001 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, clevelandorchestra.com Pinecrest Pumpkin Palooza.

Trick or treat throughout the district, plus pumpkin decorating, an outdoor movie showing of “Monsters, Inc.” and interactive stations.

1-3 p.m. Pinecrest, I-271 & Harvard Road, Orange Village, discoverpinecrest.com

10/27-29

Haunted Playhouse Play Time. Stop in and explore a large haunted playhouse completed by children and their caregivers. Stow-Munroe Falls Public Library, 3512 Darrow Road, 330-688-3295, smfpl.org

10/29

Haunted Studio. Create spooky haunted house sound effects in the audio recording studio. Ages 10-18.

7-8:30 p.m. Strongsville Branch Library, 18700 Westwood Drive, 440238-5530, cuyahogalibrary.org Halloween Carnival. Games, face painting, balloon animals and so much more. Don’t forget to wear your costume. 6:30-8 p.m. Eastlake Public Library, 36706 Lake Shore Blvd., 440-942-7880, we247.org Spooktacular Hike. Put on your best Halloween costume and take a leisurely two-mile hike through the woods, then top off your evening the right way — with delicious s’mores. 6:30-8 p.m. Sippo Lake Park West, 800 Genoa Ave., Massillon, starkparks.com

10/30

Halloween Fun with Tech. Have some hands-on fun exploring new tech devices while helping librarians develop new programs. 5:30-7:30 p.m. Akron Public Library, 60 High St., 330-643-9050, akronlibrary.org

10/31

Halloween Karaoke Party. Come dressed in costume and sing your favorite songs. Light snacks will be provided. Program designed for individuals with disabilities.

6-8 p.m. Environmental Learning Center, 7250 Alexander Road, Painesville, lakemetroparks.com

October 2019 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 43

tak

[

MAKE A CRAFT!

[

On a nature walk (or romp around the yard), collect leaves of all shapes, sizes and colors, then get creative.

44 | Family Living at Its Best

DO A LEAF RUBBING.

Place fresh leaves (dry ones can be too brittle) on a flat, hard surface (tip: use press and seal plastic wrap to hold the leaves and paper in place), cover with paper, turn a crayon on its side and rub it across until leaf images appear.

PLAY A COLOR MATCHING GAME.

Place pieces of colored construction paper — red, orange, yellow, green and/or brown — on the floor or table. Help your child sort the leaves into color piles. Count the leaves and ask questions such as, “which pile has more or less?”

leaf

ke a

FUN WITH FALL COLORS & LEARNING WITH LEAVES

BY LINDSEY GEISS

Bring on the flannel and fall foliage! As autumn days grow shorter and perennials prepare for a long winter’s rest, trees will paint Northeast Ohio in a palette of brilliant reds, golds, oranges and yellows. Colors are expected to peak here mid-month (Oct. 19-26, according to the smokymountains.com prediction tool), though many factors affect timing and intensity. Looking to go leaf-peeping with the littles? Whether you want to learn about the science of it all or simply take pretty pictures, here is a list of family-friendly activities across the region, plus some festive crafts for the enjoyment and education of your youngest explorers.

SORT BY SHAPE.

Show your child that trees have differently shaped leaves. Print out free coloring sheets like birch, elm, maple and oak leaf images from smokymountains.com, and sort your collection.

MAKE LEAF PRINTS. Cover your table with a plastic table cloth or scrap paper. Dip leaves in craft paint or use a foam brush to paint one side, then stamp the leaves onto paper.

CREATE LEAF CRITTERS.

How about a lion or hedgehog?

Easypeasyandfun.com offers a free printable lion image you can cut, color and glue colorful leaves around to create the mane. Or glue beech, elm, birch or similar leaves onto paper and use a black marker to draw on hedgehog faces and paws.

October 2019 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 45

CREATING FALL TRADITIONS

B

Bay Village mother of two Jen Krueger embraces fall with a mix of family traditions and spontaneous outings with her husband, Dan, daughter, Frankie, 5, and son, Charlie, 4.

“Fall hosts many of our favorite traditions — colorful hikes, apple-picking, bonfires with s’mores and clam bakes with friends — but it is also a great time to get out and challenge yourself to explore places you’ve never gone before,” she says. “Our family is outside more now than any other season.”

They document their activities using fill-in-theblank keepsake “adventure cards” and seasonal scrapbooks, which have become so popular among friends and family that she now sells them through her custom paper goods business, Minor Details CLE. Want to create your own? Download the free printable carton cover image and colors worksheet at minordetailscle.com, then have kids label their finds with pictures or words inside the lid.

46 | Family Living at Its Best

The Krueger family creates fall color treasure boxes by painting the inside of egg cartons and searching for colorful items along their hikes to fill them. Frankie, 5, labels her treasures.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE KRUEGER FAMILY

FALL FUN & HALLOWEEN FROLIC EVENTS

see the leaves Some programs need registration; please check park websites for registration and other information. For more leafy events, visit us at NortheastOhioParent.com

10/6

Color Float. Join a naturalist on the water to enjoy the fall colors unfolding around us. Bring your kayak, paddle and personal flotation device to the program. 1-3 p.m.

Hubbard Valley Park, 8600 Hubbard Valley Road, Seville, medinacountyparks.com

PHOTO BY KIM STAHNKE

ONGOING

Leaf Trail. All ages can walk the trail through the gardens and practice tree identification.

Pick up a map at the visitor center and take advantage of the only time leaf collecting is permitted on the grounds. Free.

Holden Arboretum, 9550 Sperry Road, Kirtland, holdenarb.org StoryWalk Trail at Bath Community Park. Parents and children enjoy an interactive experience reading book pages mounted along a trail.

Books change monthly through fall. 1615 N. Cleveland-Massillon Road, summitmetroparks.org StoryWalk Trail at Carolyn Ludwig Mugrage Park. Stop at sign posts along this onemile paved trail through the woods to read pages of the book “Now” by Antoinette Portis. Books change quarterly.

4985 Windfall Road, Medina, medinacountyparks.com

10/2

Animal Crackers. Explore the world of leaves and trees with a hike and craft for ages 3-5 with an adult. 11:15 a.m.-2:15 p.m. Brecksville Reservation Trailside Program Center, 9000 Chippewa Road, clevelandmetroparks.com

10/5

Pre-K Nature Play. Indoor/ outdoor sensory exploration of nature’s wonder with physical movement, language and fine motor exercises.

Terrain: natural surface, some off-trail, up to 0.5 miles. 10 a.m. North Chagrin Nature Center, 401 Buttermilk Falls Pkwy., Willoughby, clevelandmetroparks.com Nature Stories. Interactive, nature-inspired storytime for ages 18 months to 3 years with an adult. Registration is required. 9:30-10 a.m. Liberty Park Nature Center, 9999 Liberty Road, Twinsburg, summitmetroparks.org

10/5 & 6

Jump Into Fall Days. Celebrate autumn with hands-on activities: horse-drawn wagon rides, a new “Homespun Market,” kayaking, fishing, face painting, a food truck, seasonal treats and more.

1-5 p.m. Woods Edge Shelter at Swine Creek Reservation, 16004 Hayes Road, Middlefield, geaugaparkdistrict.org

Colors of Fall Open House.

Autumn brings colorful leaves, animals preparing for winter and southward migration of birds and monarch butterflies. Fun family activities include train rides. Free. 1-3 p.m., weather permitting. Noon-4 p.m.

Penitentiary Glen Reservation, 8668 Kirtland-Chardon Road, Kirtland, lakemetroparks.com Lake Shore Live Steamers: Colors of Fall. Take a scenic miniature train ride through the woods. For safety reasons, pregnant women are not permitted to ride. 1-3 p.m.

Penitentiary Glen Reservation, 8668 Kirtland-Chardon Road, Kirtland, lakemetroparks.com

10/6, 12, 20 & 26

Fall Colors Hike. Search for beautiful fall foliage. Level 2/ moderate. 1-3 pm. Wellington Reservation, 535 Jones Road, Wellington, metroparks.cc

10/9

Fall Leaf Stroll. Join the park staff to learn about and enjoy the fall colors along the trail. 6-7 p.m. Towner’s Woods Park, 2264 Ravenna Road, Kent, co.portage.oh.us/ portage-park-district Yoga for Preschoolers. Learn about nature, the seasons and animals through yoga poses, a story, songs and a game. Bring a yoga mat or small rug to sit on and prepare to be barefoot.

Ages 3-6 with an adult.

10:30-11:15 a.m. Susan Hambley Nature Center, 1473 Parschen Road, Brunswick, medinacountyparks.com

Preschool Explorers.

Get outside with this monthly series for ages 3-5.

Seasonal topics engage the senses and selfexploration. 10-11 a.m. Liberty Park Nature Center, 9999 Liberty Road, Twinsburg, summitmetroparks.org

10/10

Preschool Fall Hike. Ages 2-5 with adult enjoy fall leaves and explore nature with a hike. Terrain: natural surface, 1 mile. 10 a.m. Bedford Reservation, Egbert Picnic Area, 18753 Egbert Road, clevelandmetroparks.com Garden Sprouts Program: Fall Leaves. Preschoolers ages 3-5 with an adult will learn about the fall leaves through outdoor exploration, a story and a craft. Meet in the lobby; no registration required. 10:15-11 a.m. Miller Nature Preserve, 2739 Center Road, Avon, metroparks.cc

10/12

Fall Colors Hike. Discover why the leaves change colors and what other plants and animals are doing to get ready for winter. 1-2:30 p.m.

Chapin Forest ReservationTwin Ponds, Hobart Road, Kirtland, lakemetroparks.com Flower/Leaf Suncatchers for Families. Design a suncatcher for your favorite window using flowers and leaves found in nature.

1:30-2:30 p.m. Odom Branch Library, 600 Vernon Odom Blvd., Akron, 330-434-8726, akronlibrary.org Fall into Nature. Family fun and seasonal activities, including hayrides, face painting, pumpkin patch, community booths, refreshments and tours, and demonstrations in the UA field station. 11:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

Bath Nature Preserve, 4160 Ira Road, bathtownship.org

October 2019 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 47

48 | Family Living at Its Best

see the leaves 10/12

10/16

10/13

Young Explorers. Ages 3-5 with adult discuss what happens to plants and animals and go exploring for signs outside.

Terrain: paved, 0.5-1 mile.

1 p.m. Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation CanalWay Center, 4524 E. 49th St., Cuyahoga Hts., clevelandmetroparks. com

Creative Kids: Fall Leaves.

Autumn leaf creations for ages 3-8. Cost: $5 for one child with one adult; $5 per additional sibling. 10 a.m.-noon. Children’s Schoolhouse Nature Park, 9045 Baldwin Road, Mentor, lakemetroparks.com

Fall Colors Hike. Search for beautiful fall foliage. Level 1/ easy. 3-4:30 p.m. Kopf Family Reservation Trailhead, Avon Lake (behind Avon Lake Public Library), metroparks.cc

10/15 Into the Wilds: Fall Puppet Trees & Leaves. Ages 2-3 can listen to a puppet tree tell a story about how its leaves change colors, make a puppet tree craft and enjoy fall leaves.

Cost: $5 for one child with one adult. 10 a.m. Children’s Schoolhouse Nature Park, 9045 Baldwin Road, Mentor, lakemetroparks.com

10/17

Nurture with Nature. Ages 3 and older with adult learn why leaves change color and explore nature through books, games, hikes and other activities. 6:30-7:30 p.m. Brecksville Reservation Trailside Program Center, 9000 Chippewa Road, clevelandmetroparks.com

10/23

Leaf Party. Ages 6 and younger can come for stories, songs and crafts all about leaves. 10:30 a.m. South Lorain Branch Library, 2121 Homewood Drive, 440-2775672, lorainpubliclibrary.org

10/23 & 26

Nature’s Expressions: Fall Leaf Sun Catcher. Ages 2-3 enjoy role-playing fall trees with a rhyme and song, then take a hike to collect leaves to make a stained-glass-looking suncatcher. Cost: $5 for one child with one adult. 10 a.m.

Chapin Forest Reservation, 9938 Chillicothe Road, Kirtland, lakemetroparks.com

10/24

Fall Leaf Stroll. Join the park staff to learn about and enjoy the fall colors along the trail. 5:30-6:30 p.m. Shaw Woods Park, 7075 Beery Road, Ravenna, co.portage.oh.us/ portage-park-district

10/24 & 25

Tales for Tots. Ages 3-6 with an adult listen to a story about what animals do to prepare for wintry weather, followed by a short hike. Oct. 24, 10-11 a.m. & 1-2 p.m.; Oct. 25, 10-11 a.m. Wolf Creek Environmental Center, 6100 Ridge Road, Wadsworth, medinacountyparks.com

10/26

Trailside Tales: Fall Magic!

Ages 4-6 will learn how nature works its fall magic, then perform fall color and art tricks of their own. Cost: $5 for one child with one adult. 1 p.m.

Chapin Forest Reservation, 9938 Chillicothe Road, Kirtland, lakemetroparks.com Fall Night Hike for Little Kids.

Enjoy nature at night without staying up late. Join a naturalist to meet a live animal and go on a night hike. Terrain: paved surface, 0.5 mile. 6:45-7:45 p.m.

North Chagrin Reservation Nature Center, 401 Buttermilk Falls Pkwy., Mayfield Village, clevelandmetroparks.com

11/2

Fall Family Hike. All ages can enjoy the sights and sounds of late fall. No registration required. 2-3 p.m. Carolyn Ludwig Mugrage Park, 4985 Windfall Road, Medina, medinacountyparks.com

October 2019 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 49

e y n r u o J BLENDED How one couple makes a home together with kids, animals and lots of love

c

Story by Michelle Dickstein

50 | Family Living at Its Best

Photos by Kim Stahnke

y

I

t’s 6 a.m. in Wadsworth and Dr. Jenn Popovsky and her husband, JP ( John Paul) Paxton, are listening for the sounds of her three teenagers — 17-year-old Roxanne and 16-year-olds Jordan and JD ( Julian David) — getting ready for the school day. Their alarms go off at 5:45 a.m., but if she doesn’t hear them by now, pulling covers and tickling feet are her go-to tactics to get them moving so they can get to school on time.

While the teenagers dash out the door, satisfied with breakfast on-the-go like a protein bar or smoothie, their younger stepbrothers, Nicholas, 11, and Nathan, 10, enjoy a more substantial meal like eggs, fruit, cinnamon rolls or a bagel and cream cheese.

By 7:15 a.m., JP’s sons are off to school, too. This leaves Jenn and JP time to tend to a veritable menagerie of animals on their farm before they start their work days as a dermasurgeon and a sales and marketing professional for medical devices.

Jenn and JP met over five years ago and married last winter, effectively blending their families into a home with five children and an ever-growing number of farm animals — from horses, donkeys, chickens and goats to cats, dogs and bunnies.

When the couple was dating, they immediately recognized the sensitivity and innate tenderness involved in bringing two families together. Jenn and JP blended their families slowly and deliberately.

“We could not force it and I am sensitive to how acceptance of a new family structure is different for each of our children,” Jenn says. “We waited to introduce our families until we were sure we

were committed to each other. At first, we introduced the kids with non-threatening group activities.

We both continued to spend quality time alone with our children, but at the same time began to spend some holidays and birthdays together.”

“It was a gradual progression,” JP says. “You just spend so much time together, in time it doesn’t make sense to be apart at the end of the day.”

According to the Pew Research Center, about 60 years ago, 37 percent of households included a married couple raising their own children.

According to the Pew Research Center, Blended families are much more common now, especially since the number of remarried adults has tripled since 1960.

“Families today are more blended and differently constructed,” reports the Pew Research Center. “Nearly half (44 percent) of young people ages 18 to 29 have a stepsibling. About half as many (23 percent) of those ages 50 to 64 — and just 16 percent of those 65 or older — have a stepsibling.”

According to a nationwide Pew survey, today more than four in 10 American adults have at least one step-relative in their family — either a stepparent, a step or half sibling, or a stepchild.

BECOMING A STEPPARENT

Jenn is a down-to-earth mom who jokingly describes herself as a ‘70s parent.

“I am certainly not a helicopter parent,” she says. “I give my kids a lot of freedom and they are very independent. I work hard to foster their independence. I have made sure that we have really open and honest lines of communication.

My kids know they can come to me to talk about anything without judgement or any worry about punishment. It’s the only way to keep them safe in today’s world.”

Jenn never questioned getting involved with a man whose kids were younger than her own children.

“When we met, (his kids) were still wearing pull-ups at night, drinking out of sippy cups and had car seats,” she says. “My kids were in middle school and independent.

JP is worth it. The children are adorable and I have all the extra love in my heart for these kids.

When you do it for the second time, it was like revisiting what I’ve already done and it’s much easier the second time around. I am much more relaxed with stepchildren. You don’t have the pressure of ‘what if I’m doing it wrong?’ You get to be the extra parent.”

Jenn concedes, “It’s a different world now with the internet and how open everyone is. I like how protective JP is of the girls and how emotionally connected he is to all the kids, including the girls. He’s a great, warm father figure role model for the girls.”

JP admits he was more cautious, saying, “I was hesitant in taking on girls. Little kids, little drama; big kids, big drama. Girls are challenging. Even though I’m the stepfather, you hear them talking about stuff…”

At this point, JP’s hand goes to his forehead and he woefully shakes it back and forth muttering, “No, no.”

JP goes on to say, “Hearing them talk about boys makes me want to ban boys from the house and put them in an all-girls school. I feel protective of the girls to an extent.

No one is good enough for the

October 2019 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 51

girls. I want to tell these high school boys to go to college, then come back and see us.

“Having JD (his stepson) is easier,” JP adds. “I can relate to a teenage boy because I was there. I’ll even ask my mom about what I did as a teenager.”

With this, Jenn laments, “My son never talks to me.”

JP quickly fires back, “He talks plenty.”

in survival-mode,” Jenn says. “There’s a lot of take-out.”

Not to mention the ever-growing brood of farm animals requires care, feeding and cleaning.

“I put in an hour either before or after work feeding everyone, cleaning stalls or cages and then do the big maintenance on the weekend,” she says.

BLENDING A FAMILY WITH TWO WORKING PARENTS

Both Jenn and JP have shared custody of their kids with their exes. Jenn and JP purposely set up their custody schedules so they have all five kids together on weekends.

“We want the kids to have a sibling experience together,” JP says. “When we have the kids on the weekend, that’s our priority. We focus on being together as a family and schedule adults-only dates or activities on the other weekend.”

Additionally, one night a week they each have one set of kids alone. The teenagers are at the farm on Mondays and JP’s boys are with them on Wednesdays.

Jenn readily admits that their individual work situations complement one another. As a dermasurgeon, Jenn’s job does not have much flexibility since she is seeing patients throughout the week and appointments get booked months in advance. If she needs a day out of the office, she needs to plan far in advance for it.

As a sales and marketing professional, JP mostly works out of his home office and has the flexibility to set his schedule and appointments based on his and the family’s needs.

“We have different ages of kids in many different schools and lots of different activities — it can be challenging,” Jenn says. “When there is a kid emergency, JP can rearrange his schedule a lot easier.”

Evenings are just as busy as mornings. After-school activities include football and soccer practices and games, play rehearsal, voice lessons and cello lessons.

“Everyone is coming and going at different times like Grand Central Station,” JP says.

As for dinner each night? “We are

52 | Family Living at Its Best

WHEN KIDS HAVE MORE THAN ONE HOME

CO-PARENTING AND BEING A STEPPARENT

Pew Research Center reports having a stepfamily is not something most people anticipate or plan for, and that is reflected in the survey findings. When asked whether their family life has turned out about as they expected or if it is different than they expected, a 54 percent majority of those who have at least one step-relative say things have turned out differently than they expected.

This sentiment is reflected as JP says, “This is totally outside of the scope of what I pictured for myself growing up as an only child with a small family.

Now we have seven people in the house and I wonder how we make it all work, but we do. It’s totally outside of my comfort zone and actually a lot of fun.”

“I understand my stepsons have a mom and their circumstances are difficult for them,” Jenn says. “I am sensitive to the fact that they sometimes struggle with a loyalty issue: if they are close with me, do they feel like they are being disloyal to their mom?

They are too young to be able to totally rationalize these feelings, so when they need it, I give them some space and reassurance. I’ve told both of them I know they have a mom and I want us all to get along and they should think of me as an extra mom. It’s OK to love both of us and no one will be jealous.

Putting it in little kid terms really helps.

“Furthermore, it is not my place to get in the middle of disagreements between their mom and dad,” she adds.

“In fact, those are none of my business.

I am certainly here to support them and their dad when they need support, but I otherwise mind my own business.

I do not create drama for them.”

JP notes, “Your role as the partner/ spouse is to support your partner/ spouse, be supportive when they are struggling and be a sounding board during difficult times when emotions are charged between exes.”

“Sometimes you have to let the kids work it out themselves,” Jenn says.

“Split custody and split parenting are

DR. JENN POPOVSKY AND HER HUSBAND, JP (JOHN PAUL), AT THEIR HOME IN WADSWORTH, WHICH THEY SHARE WITH THEIR CHILDREN, ROXANNE, 17, 16-YEAR-OLDS JORDAN AND JD (JULIAN DAVID), NICHOLAS, 11, AND NATHAN, 10, ALONG WITH THEIR MANY PETS AND FARM ANIMALS.

really hard when you do not have a say in what happens in the home of your ex. You have to accept when kids go to their other parent’s home, they are there and you need to step back. ” THE CHALLENGES OF BRINGING TWO FAMILIES TOGETHER

Discipline can be a challenge and both parents need to really communicate what their expectations are for how much or how little the other parent should be involved or participate. Children will have expectations, too, and the parents need to present a unified front.

“My husband’s boys look to him as the first line of help, and mine look at me similarly,” Jenn says. “I have noticed that I can be standing in the kitchen and his boys will come in and ask, ‘where’s dad?’ instead of asking for my help with an issue. At the same time, my older teen children, interestingly, do it, too. They will ask, ‘where’s mom?’ for help first. At first, I took it personally and felt a little sad that my stepsons didn’t want my help with things, but once I realized my kids do the same exact thing, I realized it’s just normal for them. The children never refuse help or guidance from their stepparent if it is offered, they just look for their primary parent first.”

Furthermore, Jenn personally saw her son struggle the most because he went from being the only boy, and her youngest, to being one of three boys with two younger stepbrothers.

“He was only 10 years old when my husband and I became seriously committed as a couple,” she says. “In one conversation, he sadly stated he

wasn’t my baby anymore. JP’s son was only 5 years old at the time and my son was just 5 years old when his dad and I separated. I reminded him of how hard it was for him to spend weekends away from me at such a young age. Little kids need extra help and attention to do things like tie shoes, which my 10-year-old son could do on his own. I reassured my son that even though I was helping Nathan with these things, he would always be my baby. Giving our kids a lot of honesty, love and communication went a long way toward helping our kids blend.”

LESSONS LEARNED: TIPS FOR BLENDING FAMILIES

It’s important to be really open and honest with kids on an age-appropriate level, Jenn says.

“We never hid our relationship from the kids as things grew and became more serious,” she says.

Include the kids in big decisions to foster a feeling of inclusion and importance. Allow kids to have an opinion, and to discuss and share their concerns, says JP, who adds, “The children were involved in any big decisions we made. When you approach it in that manner, it doesn’t create resentment.”

When introducing the kids, start off slow by doing appropriate activities for the kids and rotating what the activities are by age. Do not overlook the kids based on the ages of new stepsiblings.

“Prioritize and focus on the kids when you are all together,” Jenn says.

“Because we have all the kids together

every other weekend, we do not schedule date night or things with other couples. When we have kids, it’s really all about the kids. It really helps a lot.”

Be thoughtful about calendars and how split custody is shared. Jenn and JP noted that county court systems view holidays differently. Some courts view holidays as just the day of (like Memorial Day is only one day), while other courts view holidays as the whole weekend.

Jenn adds, “The more the merrier — it’s a lot of fun and the rewards of having a blended family are plentiful.

When we blended the family, we didn’t have kids of the same ages and sexes, so because the kids were at different ages of development and school, no one felt challenged or [like they needed to] compete for attention.

“It is fun seeing them call one another stepsiblings, cheering for one another at sporting events,” she adds.

“Having a big family is really fun. there are more children to love, more smiles, more hugs and kisses, more fun as a family. Some of my friends have said they don’t think they could raise someone else’s children. I have never felt this way. I find I have so much love in my heart to give that it doesn’t matter they are not my biological children. And I have found that when I love a man deeply, my love extends to his children, as well.”

October 2019 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 53

OCTOBER CAlenDAR Find more events at NortheastOhioParent.com

Ourcks Pi

10/17

Connecting for Kids Sensory Consults. Does your child hate “itchy” clothes, is bothered by noises, or has frequent meltdowns and difficulty interacting with others? Meet with a pediatric occupational therapist for a consult. 6-7:30 p.m. West River Library, 1194 W. River Road N., Elyria, 440-3242270, elyrialibrary.org

Fun Sensory rning and Lea son ea for the S

Pick your DAY

MONDAYS

Little Engineers Group. Kids 5 years and older test their brickmaster skills. 3:30-5:30 p.m. Oberlin Public Library, 65 S. Main St., 440-775-4790, oberlinpl.lib.oh.us Tinkergarten. Tinkergarten is on a mission to elevate childhood. A growing technology-enabled network of leaders that bring families together in a natural place where kids can learn through play. 1-2:30 p.m. Coventry Peace Park, 2843 Washington Blvd., Cleveland Hts., heightslibrary.org

Family Fun Time. Familes with children ages 3 and older enjoy a different theme each week. 6-7 p.m. South Lorain Branch Library, 2121 Homewood Drive, 440-2775672, lorainpubliclibrary.org

TUESDAYS

Club Create. Join Club Create with Lake Erie Ink to make comics, poetry, science fiction, playwriting, mysteries and more. 3:30-5 p.m. Martin Luther King, Jr. Branch Library, 1962 Stokes Blvd., Cleveland, cpl.org Teen Cuisine. Do you love cooking? Teen Cuisine helps teens become self sufficient in the kitchen while building healthy habits that will last a lifetime. 3:30-4:40 p.m.

Lee Road Branch Library, 2345 Lee Road, Cleveland Hts., 216-9323600, heightslibrary.org

54 | Family Living at Its Best

10/26

American Sign Language and Deaf Cultures Program for Kids. Children in grades third through sixth are invited to learn about the deaf community and basic American Sign Language. 11 a.m. Kent Free Library, 312 W. Main St., 330673-4414, kentfreelibrary.org

WEDNESDAYS

Preschool STEAM Stations.

Explore various activities that will build your child’s early literacy skills. 10:30-11 a.m. Morley Library, 184 Phelps St., Painesville, 440352-3383, morleylibrary.org N B Tween. Crafts, games and activities geared specifically toward tweens. 4:15-5 p.m. Morley Library, 184 Phelps St., Painesville, 440352-3383, morleylibrary.org

SATURDAYS

Raising Readers Family Story Time. A unique, drop-in storytime for readers of all ages. Laugh, sing and share a love of literacy and language. 11 a.m. & 2 p.m. Jefferson Branch Library, 850 Jefferson Ave., Cleveland, 216-623-7004, cpl.org

10/31

Pumpkin Sensory Play. Children engage their senses as they explore pumpkins. 10-11 a.m. Liberty Park Nature Center, 9999 Liberty Road, Twinsburg, summitmetroparks.org

Ongoing

THROUGH 10/6

Himalayan Dreams. A young Sherpa boy, living in the Himalayan mountains, dreams of climbing the tallest mountain in the world with his hero. Talespinner Children’s Theatre, 5209 Detroit Ave., Cleveland, talespinnerchildrenstheatre.org

day - by - DAY

10/3-6

Ohio Mart. Enjoy gorgeous autumn weather and major retail therapy with talented artisans and exhibitors. Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, 714 N. Portage Path, Akron, 330-863-5533, stanhywet.org

10/5

LLA Therapy Grand Re-Opening.

Food and activities for the whole family and therapists will be available to answer questions, provide tours and give screenings. 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. 105 Executive Pkwy., Ste. 100, Hudson, llatherapy.org Harvest Homecoming. A celebration of community in support of Hanna Perkins Center for Child Development. 7 p.m. 19910 Malvern Road, Shaker Hts., hannaperkins.org Oscar the Grouch Recycling Make and Take. Have fun creating crafts with recycled materials. 2-3 p.m. Reed Memorial Library, 167 E. Main St., Ravenna, 330-296-2827, reedlibrary.org Masterchef Junior Live! Featuring head-to-head cooking competitions with past MasterChef Junior all-stars and fan favorites, Q&A sessions and an overall immersive audience experience that’s fun for all ages. 7 p.m. State Theatre at Playhouse Square, 1519 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, 216-241-6000, playhousesquare.org Peninsula’s Peddler’s Day. A village-wide, community event where one person’s “junk” is another person’s treasure. Downtown Peninsula, explorepeninsula.com International Cleveland Community Day. A free festival featuring more than 50 groups and organizations that present their rich diversity through music, dance and cultural displays. 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

The Cleveland Museum of Art, 11150 East Blvd., 216-421-7350, clevelandart.org

10/8

Kids in the Kitchen. Ages 7-12 create your own snack of tea and sandwiches. 4-4:45 p.m. West River Library, 1194 W. River Road N., Elyria, 440-324-2270, elyrialibrary.org DiscoveryWorks Jr. Tree House Club: Candy Creations. Explore the art of building using sweet candy treats. 4-5 p.m. Avon Lake Public Library, 32649 Electric Blvd., 440-933-8128, alpl.org

10/9

It’s OK, Your Child Will Get There.

Connect with educators and fellow parents to share your hopes and fears about your own child’s development. 6:30-7:30 p.m. Shaker Library, 16500 Van Aken Blvd., 216991-2030, shakerlibrary.org

10/10

Half-Pint Homecoming. Children ages 2-6 and their caregivers are invited to the first Half-Pint Homecoming dance. 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Willoughby Public Library, 30 Public Square, 440-942-3200, we247.org

VE SA DATE E TH

10/11

Family Campfire Night. Bring your family for a fun evening of hiking, crafts, campfires and s’mores.

6:30-8:30 p.m. The Nature Center at Shaker Lakes, 2600 S. Park Blvd., 216-231-5935, shakerlakes.org Fire Safety Program. The Randolph Fire Department will visit the Randolph Branch Library to help children learn about fire safety.

11 a.m.-1 p.m. Randolph Branch Library, 1639 State Route 44, 330325-7003, portagelibrary.org

10/12

Family Fishing Fest. Children and families are invited to a fun fishing event along the Ohio River and Erie Canal just down the hill from CanalWay Center. Rainbow trout and catfish will be stocked prior to the event. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. clevelandmetroparks.com

10/12-13

10/13 “Fiesta de Baile”

An Afternoon of Spanish Dance Special Event Celebrates Libby Lubinger Libby Lubinger, Spanish dance artistic director at Fairmount Center for the Arts in Novelty, born in Brooklyn, N.Y., began studying Spanish dance at age 12. After moving to the Cleveland area in the early 1970s, FCA founder, Jan Kumin, invited her to teach dance at the center. She become an artist-in-residence by the Ohio Arts Council and taught Spanish dance at the Cleveland School of Ballet. Proceeds from this event support the launch of the Libby Lubinger Scholarship Fund. 3-5 p.m. Tickets $35. 8400 Fairmount Road, Novelty, 440-338-3171 or fairmountcenter.org

Apple Butter Festival. Apple butter stirring and canning, broom making, weaving, rug hooking, blacksmithing, children’s train, crafters, music and food. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Century Village Museum, 14653 E. Park St., Burton, 440-834-1492, centuryvillagemuseum.org

10/12-28

Little Shop of Horrors. Seymour Krelborn, a failing florist’s assistant, dreams of escaping his luckless life on skid row. After he stumbles upon a first-of-its-kind flower, his fortunes start to turn around.

French Creek Theatre, 4530 Colorado Ave., Sheffield Village, metroparks.cc/theatre.php

10/13

Family Hike to Little Mountain.

Little Mountain is the perfect forest to explore rock crevices. Help locate the sites of historic hotels, find names carved in rock more than 100 years ago and search for the old spring house. 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Holden Arboretum, 9500 Sperry Road, Kirtland, 440-946-4400, holdenarb.org - CONTINUED ON PAGE 57 -

October 2019 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 55

Parent and Me STORYTIMES & ACTIVITIES MONDAYS

Messy Mondays. Children ages 3-8 years with a caregiver enjoy stories, songs and a fun, creative and messy activity. 7-8 p.m. Through 1/18. Maple Heights Branch Library, 5225 Library Lane, 216-475-5000, cuyahogalibrary.org Fall Baby & Me. For babies and toddlers and their caregivers.

9:15 and 10:15 a.m. Through 10/21.

Rocky River Public Library, 1600 Hampton Road, 440-333-7610, rrpl.org Tales for Twos. Stories, music, fingerplays and activities for 2-year-olds and their caregivers. 10:45-11 a.m. North Ridgeville Branch Library, 37500 Bainbridge Road, 440-327-8326, lorainpubliclibrary.org Toddler Storytime. Rhymes, songs, movement, fingerplays and books for 2- to 3-year-olds and their caregivers. 11 a.m.

10/7-11/4. Brunswick Library, 3649 Center Road, 330-273-4150, mcdl.info Toddler Tales & Playtime.

Join caregivers and children ages 3 and younger for stories, rhymes and fingerplays followed by open playtime. 10-11 a.m.

Through 10/21. Morley Library, 184 Phelps St., Painesville, 440-3523383, morleylibrary.org Story Stop. Hear stories, sing songs and do a little dancing, too. 10-10:30 and 11-11:30 a.m. Through 11/25. Lee Road Branch Library, 2345 Lee Road, Cleveland Hts., 216-932-3600, heightslibrary.org

MONDAYS, WEDNESDAYS & FRIDAYS

Stroller Strides. A functional, total-body conditioning workout designed for moms with kids in tow comprised of strength training, cardio and core restoration, all while entertaining little ones.

9:30-10:30 a.m. Beachwood City Park West, Shaker Blvd. east and west of Richmond Road, beachwood.fit4mom.com

Twinkle Tots. Enjoy a light show set to lively music and learn what we can see up in the sky. 11:30 a.m. Lake Erie Nature & Science Center, 28728 Wolf Road, Bay Village, 440-871-2900, lensc.org

MONDAYS & THURSDAYS

Preschool Story Time. Miss Chris will share stories, songs, dance, playtime and snack. 10 a.m. Through 11/21. Peninsula Library, 6105 Riverview Road, 330-467-7323, peninsulalibrary.org

MONDAYSTHURSDAYS

Just Baby N’ Me. For you and your birth to 24-month-old baby. Enjoy books, songs and fingerplays while meeting other parents. 9:30 a.m. Through 10/30.

Madison Branch Library, 13229 Madison Ave., Lakewood, 216228-7428, lakewoodpubliclibrary.org Tales Alive. A fun storytime for children ages 2-5. 10:15-11 a.m.

Through 10/31. Cuyahoga Falls Library, 2015 Third St., 330-9282117, cuyahogafallslibrary.org

TUESDAYS

Lapsit. Families with children age 2 and younger enjoy bounces, songs, rhymes and a book, with a big finish of bubbles. 10:45 a.m. Kirtland Public Library, 9267 Chillicothe Road, Kirtland, 440-256-7323, kirtland.lib.oh.us Baby Play & Learn. Come and have fun with your baby and enjoy stories, songs, rhymes, bounces and play. 6-6:45 p.m.

Through 11/12. Elyria Central Library, 320 Washington Ave., 440-322-0287, elyrialibrary.org Storytime in the Treehouse.

Enjoy storytime in the treehouse at the Hershey Children’s Garden. 11 a.m. Cleveland Botanical Garden, 11030 East Blvd., 216-7211600, cbgarden.org

56 | Family Living at Its Best

Thrillin’ Threes Storytime.

Stories, music, fingerplays and activities for 3-year-olds and their caregivers. 10:15-10:45 a.m.

Through 10/8. North Ridgeville Branch Library, 37500 Bainbridge Road, 440-327-8326, lorainpubliclibrary.org Baby Bonanza. Bring your not-yet-walking babies and blankets in for books, bopping and bouncing at this lap-sit program. 10-10:30 a.m. Through 11/27. Lee Road Branch Library, 2345 Lee Road, Cleveland Hts., heightslibrary.org Tiddlywinks. An interactive storytime filled with stories, songs and rhymes just right for little listeners. Birth-36 months. 10 a.m. Through 11/12. Mentor Public Library, 8215 Mentor Ave., 440255-8811, mentorpl.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. 11:30 a.m. Through 12/24. Garrettsville Branch Library, 10482 South St., portagelibrary.org

WEDNESDAYS

Mid-Week Mommy Mix & Mingle. Once you drop your school-aged children off at school, bring your babies and preschoolers to the museum to enjoy some awesome playtime while you meet other moms.

First Wednesday of each month.

10 a.m.-noon. Akron Children’s Museum, 216 S. Main St., akronkids.org Let’s Sing and Dance. Sing and move to the music with Miss Nancy. Ages 2-6. 9:30 & 10:15 a.m. Westlake Porter Public Library, 27333 Center Ridge Road, 440-871-2600, westlakelibrary.org

WEDNESDAYS & THURSDAYS

Preschool Storytime. Stories, songs, flannel board stories, fingerplays and a craft that encourage development of early literacy skills in young children.

10:30 a.m. Reed Memorial Library, 167 E. Main St., Ravenna, 330296-2827, reedlibrary.org

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. 10-11:30 a.m.

Through 11/21. Goodyear Branch Library, 60 Goodyear Blvd., Akron, 330-784-7522, akronlibrary.org Wee Ones. Storytime for ages birth to 2 with caregiver. 10:30 a.m. Through 11/30. Barberton Public Library, 602 W. Park Ave., 330-745-1194, barberton.lib.oh.us Pre-K Storytime. Join Miss Sue for stories, music, crafts and dancing. 11:30 a.m.-noon.

Through 11/21. Newbury Station Branch Library, 14775 Auburn Road, Newbury, divi.geaugalibrary.net Fall Baby N’ Me. Caregivers and their children ages birth to 18 months. Rhymes, songs, fingerplays and books. Through 11/21.

Chagrin Falls Branch Library, 100 E. Orange St., 440-247-3556, cuyahogalibrary.org

FRIDAYS

Family Story Time. Children of all ages with a favorite adult are invited to join for songs, stories, fingerplays and more. 1 p.m.

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

SATURDAYS

Silly Saturdays. Stories, songs and so much more geared toward ages 2-6, but all ages are welcome. 10:30 a.m. Through 11/16. Stow-Munroe Falls Public Library, 3512 Darrow Road, 330688-3295, smfpl.org

- CONTINUED FROM PAGE 55 -

10/18

Kids Move Into Fitness. Get the kids out of the house and moving at this fun, high-energy kids program where they’ll dance and jump and run. 9-10 a.m.

Exploration Gateway, 5710-5712 12th St., Canton, 330-409-8096, starkparks.com

10/18-27

Harriet the Spy. A funny and headstrong 11-year-old is caught by her classmates writing brutal observations about them. What lessons do they learn about anger, kindness and forgiveness?

Magical Theatre Company, 565 W. Tuscarawas Ave., Barberton, 330-848-3708, magicaltheatre.org

10/26

Curiosity Open: Robotics Challenge. The Great Lakes Science Center is excited to launch its first ever tournament for area high school robotics teams. 10 a.m. 601 Erieside Ave., Cleveland, 216-694-2000, greatscience.com

10/29

Date Night: Paint Pouring. Create a one-of-a-kind marbled masterpiece. You will be doing what is called a “dirty pour,” where flow medium is added to acrylic paint, colors are stacked in a cup and then poured onto a canvas to create a flowing effect. Sippo Lake Park, Exploration Gateway, 5710-5712 12th St., Canton, 330-409-8096, starkparks.com

10/19

Elementary Experiences: Improve Focus & Reduce Anxiety: BAAM! Ages 7-12 with parents/caregivers learn self-care techniques: breathing, aromatherapy, accupressure and movement. 1-2 p.m.

Middleburg Heights Branch Library, 15600 E. Bagley Road, 440-234-3600, cuyahogalibrary.org

10/20

BAY-CON. The talented students of BAYarts are inviting you to come celebrate all things nerdy and geeky at BAY-CON, BAYarts’ first student-based, family-friendly comic and art convention. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. BAYarts, 28795 Lake Road, Bay Village, 440-871-6543, bayarts.net Family Fun: Magic Show at the Maltz Museum of Jewish Heritage. A spectacular magic show with master magician Scott Shuller. In addition, make music-themed crafts and do your own tricks when you make the tasty snacks disappear. 1:30-3 p.m. 2929 Richmond Road, Beachwood, 216-593-0575, maltzmuseum.org

10/23

Teen Art Night. Apply alcohol ink to washers and other hardware to create extraordinary jewelry for everyone.

6-7:30 p.m. Brunswick Library, 3649 Center Road, 330-273-4150, mcdl.info

Send Calendar Listing Submissions to:

calendar@ northeastohioparent.com

at n u F l l a F ! s t r A e n Fi

s• e • therapie r t a e h t • t r la usic • visua One Roof!

• dance • m r e d n U s t r All of the A

CHECK OUT ALL OUR NEW CLASSES!

Art for Homeschool Families. Learn about the Renaissance artist, mathematician and inventor Leonardo Da Vinci. Each student will make their own version of the “Mona Lisa.” 2-3 p.m.

Wadsworth Public Library, 132 Broad St., 330-334-5761, wadsworthlibrary.com

10/24

Lakewood Chocolate Walk. The Chocolate Walk is a delectable and decadent evening all about chocolate. Visit a wide variety of shops and eateries that are sweet stops for a unique chocolate treat. 6-9 p.m. Downtown Lakewood, 14701 Detroit Ave., 216-521-0655, lakewoodalive.com

tion.org artsassocia

7500 • 440-951-

N IATI4O C O S 94 S 0 4 A y, OH E ARTS Willoughb

visit us at fi

ne

THE FIN38660 Mentor Avenue •

NEW! $25 referral credit

October 2019 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 57

ONGOING AKRON ZOO AKRON ART MUSEUM

THROUGH 10/27 Joe Vitone: Family Records.

An ongoing series of portraits of photographer Joe Vitone’s relatives living in and around Akron. 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 & 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, 330-6653466, akronfossils.com

ONGOING Get Up Close to 700 Animals 361 Days a Year. Explore Komodo Kingdom, Grizzly Ridge, Penguin Point, and much more. Pride of Africa now open. 500 Edgewood Ave., 330-375-2550, akronzoo.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 The Kidzibits Playzone at the Cleveland History Center inspires guest of all ages to explore and experience history.

So bring the whole family and get your hands on history! 10825 East Blvd., 216-721-5722, wrhs.org

CLEVELAND METROPARKS ZOO

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

58 | Family Living at Its Best

Attractions

THE CLEVELAND MUSEUM OF ART

THROUGH 1/5/20 Michelangelo: Mind of the Master. An unprecedented opportunity for museum visitors to experience the brilliance of Michelangelo’s achievements on an intimate scale through more than two dozen original drawings. 11150 East Blvd., clevelandart.org

THE CLEVELAND MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY

THROUGH 10/28 Fossil Hunters: The Search for our Past. Visitors will be virtually transported to the Afar desert of Ethiopia, where they will see how teams of fossil hunters search for clues to our evolutionary puzzle. They will learn where fossils are found and how they are detected and extracted from the surface. 1 Wade Oval Drive, cmnh.org

GREAT LAKES SCIENCE CENTER

ONGOING Vroom! A Car Adventure.

From a Tot Garage area for the youngest tinkerers to an exhibit that demonstrates how self-driving cars are able to see using a LIDAR sensor, Vroom! is sure to get every guest’s curiosity racing. 601 Erieside Ave., Cleveland, 216-694-2000, 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

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, 440-871-2900, lensc.org

MALTZ MUSEUM OF JEWISH HERITAGE

THROUGH 3/1/20 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.

This exhibition will 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

NATURE CENTER AT SHAKER LAKES

THROUGH 1/6/20 “Fragments” by Paula Zinsmeister. Artist Paula Zinsmeister uses a variety of printmaking

and mixed media techniques to portray the beauty of natural plants and grasses. In some instances, paper was made by hand or dyed using plants.

2600 S. Park Blvd., 216-231-5935, shakerlakes.org

ROCK & ROLL HALL OF FAME

ONGOING The Garage: It’s Your Turn to Play. Pick up an instrument, crank up the volume and make your own music in the museum.

Designed to evoke the birthplace of rock bands for decades, The Garage is where it’s your

turn to play. 1100 Rock & Roll Blvd., Cleveland, rockhall.com

THE SHAKER HISTORICAL SOCIETY

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

Northeast Ohio Parent

STAN HYWET HALL & GARDENS

ONGOING Lasting Impressions. Celebrating Gertrude Seiberling’s passion for painting, which she rediscovered at age 64, and passionately pursued for the next 16 years.

Her paintings will be on display in the Manor House. 714 N. Portage Path, Akron, 330-836-5533, stanhywet.org

MARKETPLACE

TO PLACE YOUR AD HERE Contact

Samantha Olp

330-636-6127 or Sam@northeastohioparent.com

October 2019 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 59

Travel the World

in VIP Style with Disney

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA BACKSTAGE MAGIC

By Tricia Scott, owner of Visit Mickey Vacations

I

often write about the various locations available for your family’s trips. When you think of a family vacation, of course the list is going to include Walt Disney World, Universal Studios and all the different cruise lines. However, if you are looking for the “next level” of family travels and a truly VIP experience, it’s time to turn to Adventures

by Disney.

I’m sure you are thinking, “VIP with Disney?” YES! Adventures by Disney travels the world and seeks out the most stunning destinations around the globe — then studies them for opportunities and creates amazing packages. Disney has developed more than 30 Adventures in 23 countries and six continents. Nine of these tours are right here in North America.

Adventures by Disney travels around the world with the service and quality that all have come to expect from Disney. However, it’s not about rides, character visits, autographs, castles and princesses — it’s about the Disney brand offering you the best of the best.

This summer, I embarked on three different Adventures by Disney trips and I’d like to share some stories and pictures with you, to show you just how VIP these can be for your family, too.

This trip is different than all the other Adventures by Disney trips, as it is very much geared for the Disney Lover. It’s affectionately known as “Backstage Magic” and the access we were given was just awesome. There are so many insider opportunities, including entrance into the parks a full 40 minutes before anyone else. Who doesn’t love the chance to get your picture in front of Sleeping Beauty’s Castle with nobody else in your picture?

Above: Muppet - The only way to step foot in the Muppet Studios is to take the Backstage Magic tour, as this is a private property with no tours allowed. There was a private lesson on how manipulate a muppet for a show.

Below: Access to Emmys and Oscars - Some of the backstage access included trips to Disney Studios and Disney archives. Guests were each able to take a turn at living in an Emmy and Oscar fantasy.

NEW YORK CITY DOES YOUR FAMILY LOVE BROADWAY? If so, this is absolutely the adventure for you. This Short Escape takes place over a long weekend (Thursday through Sunday) in NYC. Highlights include: a backstage and in-studio experience at Good Morning America; a special tour of NYC on The RIDE; backstage tour and photo ops at the Amsterdam Theater; trip to the 9/11 Museum and One World Trade Center; and a special dinner on the last evening followed by the most amazing seats for “Frozen: The Broadway Musical” at the St. James Theater.

60 Family Living Living at at Its Its Best Best 60 || Family

Above: Mary Poppins and Newsie - As part of the New Amsterdam theater tour, Tricia Scott was able to get into costume (Mary Poppins’ coat, umbrella and carpet bag) from a closed show.

Below: Times Square - Good Morning America had both onstage and green room access for the New York City adventure.

DANUBE RIVER CRUISE BUDAPEST, HUNGARY TO VILSHOFEN, GERMANY This is a weeklong trip along the Danube River on an absolutely stunning AmaWaterway ship. Each river cruise is guided by six Disney tour guides offering the VIP experiences.

Go to visitmickey.com/quote-neoparent

Far Left: Salzburg Sound of Music steps - Guests spend a day in Salzburg, where they can live out their “Sound of Music” dreams at Mirabelle Gardens, where it was filmed.

Above: Making Strudel - Adventures by Disney provides unique, authentic and immersive experiences, like handson strudel lessons in Budapest.

Left: Treetop Explore - A kid favorite, travel to the famous Tree Path Kopfing, where you view the Austrian Alps from treetop paths.

October 2019 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 61

AGING ANSWERS

October 2019 Resources for Helping the Ones you Love

62 | Family Living at Its Best

October 2019 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 63

AGING ANSWERS

❶

❷

❹

❸

CARING RESOURCES

❺

HERE ARE SOME HELPFUL ACTIVITIES AND BOOKS FOR CAREGIVERS

By Angela Gartner

1

Conversation Cards for Adults, Nostalgic Items — Reminiscence Activity for Alzheimer’s / Dementia / Memory Loss Patients and Caregivers

By Shadowbox Press Shadowbox Conversation Cards were developed by an activity director to encourage individuals experiencing memory loss to reminisce and converse about a particular aspect or experience from their lives.

— Recommended by the Alzheimer’s Association Green-Field Library, alz.org

2

Jan’s Story: Love Lost to the Long Goodbye of Alzheimer’s

By Barry Petersen

When CBS News Correspondent Barry Petersen married the love of his life 25 years ago, he never thought his vow, “until death do us part,” would have an expiration date. But early onset Alzheimer’s claimed Jan Petersen, Barry’s beautiful wife, at 55, leaving her unable to remember Barry or their life together.

— Recommended by the Alzheimer’s Association Green-Field Library, alz.org

3

The 36-Hour Day, sixth edition: A Family Guide to Caring for People Who Have Alzheimer Disease, Other Dementias, and Memory Loss (A Johns Hopkins Press Health Book)

By Nancy L. Mace and Peter V. Rabins

The guide is a resource for families who love and care for people with Alzheimer’s disease. Whether a person has Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia, he or she will face a host of problems. The book helps family members and caregivers address these challenges and simultaneously cope with their own emotions and needs.

— Recommended by the Alzheimer’s Association Green-Field Library, alz.org

NEW LOOK NEW SEARCH NEW RESOURCES

for caregiving support

COME EXPLORE THE NEW BENROSE.ORG

64 | Family Living at Its Best

4

AGING ANSWERS

❻

❼

Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia: What Everyone Needs to Know

By Steven R. Sabat

The book provides information on dementia and Alzheimer’s, which are two distinct conditions, and how to understand memory dysfunction and many other significant abilities that people have even in the moderate to severe stages of these disorders. From years spent exploring and observing the points of view and experiences of people diagnosed, the author strives to inform as well as to remind readers of the respect and empathy owed to those diagnosed and living with dementia.

— Recommended by the Alzheimer’s Association Green-Field Library, alz.org

5

My Mother, Your Mother: Embracing “Slow Medicine,” the Compassionate Approach to Caring for Your Aging Loved Ones

By Dennis McCullough

Shaped by common sense and kindness, it advocates for careful anticipatory “attending” to your loved one’s changing needs rather than waiting for crises that force acute medical interventions — thereby improving the quality of their extended late lives without bankrupting families financially or emotionally. This is not a plan for preparing for death; it is a plan for understanding, for caring and for helping those you love live well during their final years.

6

Role Reversal: How to Take Care of Yourself and Your Aging Parents

By Iris Waichler

A comprehensive guide to navigating the enormous daily challenges faced by caregivers.

In these pages, Waichler blends her personal experience caring for her beloved father with her 40 years of expertise as a patient advocate and clinical social worker. The book offers information on topics including estate planning, grief and anger, building a support network and finding the right level of care for your loved one.

7

The Conscious Caregiver: A Mindful Approach to Caring for Your Loved One Without Losing Yourself

By Linda Abbit

While it may be a rewarding experience to care for a loved one, the emotional and physical stress of caregiving can lead to burnout and exhaustion — causing caregivers to put themselves and their own well-being in the background. Abbit, author and founder of “Tender Loving Eldercare” and a veteran of the caregiving industry, shares her advice on taking care of an older parent or loved one and how to handle everything that goes along with this dramatic life change.

October 2019 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 65

#CLE

MAMA

FRIEND POWER is Stronger than

SARA CARNES Sara Carnes

Willpower!

SaraCarnes

W

hen something feels hard to accomplish, it’s hard to stick to it. We’ve all probably had a diet that didn’t work out, a fitness routine that fizzled, or great ambitions that you just couldn’t carry out on your own. This was me.

Recently, though, I think I found the solution to fix it: friendship.

It all hit me after reading a quote from Dr. Mark Hyman, who said, “Friend power is far more powerful than willpower.” I just sat there and thought, wow...ain’t that the truth.

Anything in life at which I’ve been successful came from having great people supporting me, loving me and encouraging me. And I believe this is exactly why I’ve been able to learn so much on my most recent journey to get healthy again.

A few years ago, I started not feeling well. A variety of health issues hit me, including digestion issues, fatigue, sleep issues, etc. I went from being healthy to feeling lost, alone and miserable. I went from doctor to doctor trying to find answers for a year. At that point, I was told I had fibromyalgia and they gave me some drug options to try, but I didn’t want to go that route.

Deep down, I knew there was something more I could do. Long story short, I finally found a division of medicine called functional medicine, which drills down on your symptoms a little deeper to find the root causes — and I finally found answers. I learned I was sensitive to gluten, plus a few other things I needed to address related to gut issues and mold toxicity.

66 | Family Living at Its Best

I finally had some answers, but these were things I needed to do in order to heal and they weren’t going to be quick, easy fixes.

All of this meant big changes in my diet and lifestyle.

Let me preface this next part by saying that 10 years ago, I didn’t even eat salads. I was Miss Hamburger Helper and Taco Bell Queen. So for me to change my diet was a big deal.

So, what did I do? I immediately cut out gluten and felt so much better.

And then little by little, I started to learn from others how to keep incorporating positive changes. I started cooking more at home, too.

It was all still really hard, but I think what kept me going was connecting with people who had the same goals as I did — friend power is stronger than willpower. It’s just not easy to do anything alone. We’re designed for human connection.

I followed healthy influencers on social media. I asked friends to go to the gym with me. I started having lunch dates with friends who also wanted to start living healthy — anything I could do.

I’m doing really great now and am almost symptom-free. It’s pretty amazing. Now, because I’ve started to share my story, I have people reach out to me all the time — and I love it. Because I know exactly how it feels to be overwhelmed when it comes to learning about keeping our bodies healthy and really working hard to live our best life.

It’s OK to take it slow and start small, to just learn a little bit at a

time.

Throughout my health journey, I’ve been blessed to meet several people and have conversations with them that have helped me tremendously. I felt like I couldn’t keep these conversations bottled up and wanted to share them with you, too.

I wanted to figure out a way for us all to connect and learn together, so I created a podcast! Each episode of “Conversations with Sara” will cover all kinds of things that will help us live our best lives. We could all use a message to inspire us, right? You’ll hear episodes on everything from using food as medicine, benefits of infrared sauna and knowing progress instead of perfection, just to name a few.

My goal is to create community.

We need each other — to feel loved, to learn and to share. When we come together, we can create real, long-lasting change.

Learn more about the podcast and get healthy tips at conversationswithsara.com.

Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts or Spotify.

- SPONSORED CONTENT -

October 2019 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 67

68 | Family Living at Its Best