Northeast Ohio Parent Magazine - November 2020

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Women’s Fashion, Health & More

FOR HOME FOR

TEACHING RESILIENCE

THRIVING IN UNCERTAINTY

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FAMILIES TELL THEIR ADOPTION STORIES

SCHOOL/WORK JUGGLE LEARNING TOGETHER

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EDITOR’S NOTE Essential Hugs

JUGGLING SCHOOL, WORK & LIFE

In the final installment of our back-to-school series, we learn how families are getting everything done and staying mentally healthy in the COVID-19 environment.

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YOUTH THEATER COMES BACK

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WORTH NOTING Improve family resiliency, Reading Room and more.

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Helping kids with special needs stay social with virtual activities.

The new section, refresh, helps women practice self care and inspires moms to be all they can be. This month we cover two all-important topics: fashion and sleep.

EDUCATION NEWS

SPECIAL NEEDS

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Local arts and community centers share how they’re moving forward with virtual programming.

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What’s happening at schools and educational organizations across the region.

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FAMILY CALENDAR

What’s to do around town this month? Check out the schedule of local events, including Thanksgiving and early holiday activities.

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TRIM THE TREE

Start a new holiday tradition of cutting down your own Christmas tree with these tips. Plus, find a farm near you starting on page 53.

ON THE COVER:

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Kinley, who was adopted from Colombia, and her parents, Chris and Laura, enjoy a fall day at Cleveland Metroparks Huntington Reservation in Bay Village.

PHOTO BY KIM STAHNKE PHOTOGRAPHY KIMSTAHNKEPHOTOGRAPHY.COM

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AGING ANSWERS

One writer’s perspective on gracefully moving your loved one to longterm care.

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#CLEMAMA

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WISHING FOR HOME

Northeast Ohio families with inspiring adoption stories give us a peek into their lives.

Plus, in honor of National Adoption Month, adoption agencies share their stories starting on page 26.

Learn how to play the Glad Game from one of Sara Carnes’ favorite movies.

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OPEN HOU SES

School shop ping?

Learn when to visit these sc hools virtually and in person.

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PHOTO BY PRELUDE PHOTOGRAPHY

Editor's NOTE

Essential Hugs

MY FAMILY, FIVE YEARS YOUNGER. I MISS THOSE DAYS.

“I finally get to hug my mom,” my youngest son says to me mid-squeeze after a COVID-19 scare in our household last month. I feel a little tug in my chest. As we head into the holidays — Thanksgiving might be a little different this year with smaller or fewer gatherings — I remember how connecting through touch is still an essential part of being human.

According to an October Cleveland Clinic Health Essentials article, psychologist Dr. Joe Rock says hugs have more than a therapeutic effect.

“Hugs cause a decrease in the release of cortisol, a stress hormone, and other research indicates that hugs decrease your blood pressure and heart rate in stressful situations,” he

says.

While hugging is good for your health and state of mind, in a global pandemic, it may not seem safe. Many of us have missed out on hugging someone we love.

Cleveland Clinic recommends some safe ways to give and receive affection, such as hugging a pet, investing in a body pillow and giving extra hugs to those within your own household.

In a June New York Times article, “How to Hug During a Pandemic,” health experts suggested hugging with faces turned in opposite directions while wearing a mask rather than hugging face to face or cheek to cheek. Also, make it quick, don’t talk or cough, and obviously, don’t hug those who are showing symptoms.

For some of you, I know it seems like a lot of extra caution, but we all want to keep others safe as much as possible. My hope is by next November, we will be talking about something different and normal — maybe how we all feel like a nap after our big Thanksgiving meal.

So, this year, I think I will just be thankful for the extra hugs I can get from my husband and sons, plus how lucky we are to have each other during these times.

VOL. NO. 7 • ISSUE NO. 10

november 2020 Northeast Ohio Parent is a property of

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

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P.S. In this issue, we learn about families who are lucky enough to bring some extra love into their lives through adoption. Learn about our cover family, the Blakes, who shared what a wishbone really means to them.

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Worth

NOTING

g n i c n u o B f back

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By Marisa Palmieri Shugrue

WHAT YOUR FAMILY CAN LEARN FROM THE MILITARY’S RESILIENCY MINDSET

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t’s been a stressful year for many people, to say the least. I’m grateful that the people in my circle have been lucky when it comes to the COVID-19 pandemic; still, I see uncertainty and social isolation causing anxiety and weighing heavily on family and friends.

At times I’ve struggled, too, but for the most part my husband, two daughters and I have rolled with the punches, adapting to changes and navigating the unknowns as best as we can. It struck me recently that our outlook and ability to respond this way comes in part from our experiences as a military family. My husband is a sergeant first class in the Ohio National Guard.

Over the years, we’ve attended many training sessions, workshops and retreats that have helped us build resiliency. We’ve also put the tactics we’ve learned to the test when coping with difficult situations like deployments.

“The military does a lot of training to help our servicemembers and their families be resilient,” says Col. Daniel Burris, state chaplain for the Ohio National Guard.

He points to Strong Bonds enrichment weekends for couples, families and single service members as one example. “(Being in the military) has not necessarily been easy on myself and my family, with two deployments in a five-year period, but we are definitely stronger because of it because of our resiliency,” he says.

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To better understand resiliency, why it’s important and how to foster it in any family, I asked Burris for some advice. Here’s what he recommends.

HOW DO YOU DEFINE FAMILY RESILIENCY?

Burris: It’s that ability to stretch, learn and grow from change and from negative situations in our lives. It’s the ability to bounce back, like a rubber band.

All families face stress. This year, 2020, especially, has been extremely stressful for families, financially and emotionally. Even through this COVID stuff, hopefully families have found a lot of positives to focus on.

WHAT RESILIENCY STRATEGIES DO YOU RECOMMEND FAMILIES EMPLOY?

Burris: One strategy is to learn that every person handles stress in a different way. It’s important for families to recognize that, so they can learn coping skills. Sometimes mom or dad may need to take a walk to cool off. Other people may need to talk through things and not necessarily hear your opinion. Some people need alone time. It’s also very important to know how your children handle stress. Maybe biting fingernails is a sign, and when you see it you can help them get what they need to deal with it.

You can recognize how your loved ones manage stress through observation or books about dealing with stress.

There’s a great book called “The Five Love Languages,” which talks about how different people give and receive love. It’s so important to continue to educate yourself on your relationships.

“Always be growing” is another strategy.

When I was pastor at a local church, we’d have marriage retreats. Some couples wouldn’t come because it would be like tearing off a Band-Aid. They had never done anything to make their marriage resilient, so it was painful. But the only way to turn it around is to admit what needs to be fixed. It’s painful, but in the long term it’s helpful. You need to be willing to make an investment and not be afraid.

“HUNT THE GOOD STUFF” IS A CONCEPT I REMEMBER FROM A MILITARY RESILIENCY EVENT I ATTENDED. WHY IS THAT IDEA SO IMPORTANT?

Burris: It’s amazing how an optimistic attitude shapes everything. There’s a great Charles Swindoll quote, “Life is 10 percent what happens to you and 90 percent how you react to it.”

Hunting the good stuff is a great strategy in life. I can complain all day about COVID and what it’s done, or I could talk about the positives, like how much time my two kids at home are spending together, talking and laughing.

WHAT BEHAVIORS CAN PARENTS DISCUSS WITH OR MODEL FOR THEIR KIDS?

Burris: Parents need to have open communication with their kids, so they’re able to ask questions and not feel like they’re alone in dealing with their lives.

Kids who feel like they can talk about anything with their parents have a huge advantage right there. One of the things my wife and I have seen — her being a child psychologist and me seeing it in young soldiers — is there’s a high anxiety level in children these days. Our lives are so crazy busy and with social media and always being connected, it’s natural our kids would have anxiety.

Another thing we can do as parents is to model balance in our lives — physical, mental and spiritual. I don’t think resiliency is caught; I think it has to be taught. We have to explain that when dad goes fishing, it’s not that he wants to be away from the family, but maybe he needs a few hours alone on a Saturday morning to be a healthy person. Kids need to be taught why we do things; we should not just assume they’re naturally catching on to it.

The Name Game Top Baby Names in 2020

BabyCenter revealed its top baby names in 2020. Sophia took the No. 1 spot for girls and Liam held on to the No. 1 status for boys for a second year. BabyCenter’s Top 100 Names is based on more than a half million babies born in 2020.

Names in the top 10 this year were Olivia, Noah, Riley, Jackson, Emma, Aiden, Ava, Elijah, Isabella, Grayson, Aria, Lucas, Aaliyah, Oliver, Ameila, Caden, Mia and Mateo.

—Angela Gartner

Make Sure Your Child’s Workspace is Comfortable Many kids are learning from home due to the COVID-19 pandemic. As children adjust to their new “classroom,” it’s important to make sure they have a comfortable setup.

“In a little, tiny person we think, ‘Oh they’re made of rubber, they’re OK,’” says Chad Adams, a chiropractor at Cleveland Clinic. “‘We can throw them in these chairs, they can slouch — they’re young, they can deal with it.’ When, in fact, this is the most important time in their lives to be structurally aware of keeping that bio flow in check.”

Bad posture can have negative longterm effects for a child, Adams says. So, what can parents do to help avoid it?

If your children have to sit in adult chairs, he suggests adding some pillows and a foot stool, so they’re not hunched over with their feet dangling. Computer monitors should be at eye level and their arms at a 90 degree angle when using a keyboard, he says.

If they’re using a laptop, he recommends getting an external keyboard which can help keep wrists and elbows in the right position.

Kids also should be taking little breaks to stretch throughout the day.

“Rather than just looking side-to-side, now I am going to draw big circles, as big of circles as I can, with my neck and my arms and my wrists and fingers,” Adams says. “I am going to try to include every single part of me. And you can absolutely do that in as little as 30 seconds.”

Parents also should pay attention to their children’s behavior. Most of the time, they’ll tell you if they’re uncomfortable. But if they’re slouching a lot or shifting around, that’s probably a sign they need more support from their chair.

—ClevelandClinic.org

READING ROOM My Teacher’s in the Computer!

By Shelby Hoefling and illustrator Stephanie Hider

This year is different for Haley as she embarks on an adventure of virtual learning and finds her teacher in her computer! With bring-a-bear-to-school day just around the corner, Haley teaches her No. 1 pal, Eddy the Teddy, how to be a gold-star virtual student with her special checklist and school routine.

’Twas the Night Before Thanksgiving

NOV EMBE R BO GIVE OK On the day before Thanksgiving, a group of AWA Y! children visit a turkey farm and meet Farmer Mack Nuggett and his coop of cockerels: Ollie, Stanley, Larry, Moe, Wally, Beaver, Shemp and Groucho.

The children and turkeys giggle and gobble, and everything is gravy — reminding people and poultry alike that there is much to be thankful for.

By Dav Pilkey

Democracy for Dinosaurs: A Guide for Young Citizens

By Laurie Krasny Brown

The book explores key civic values on every adult’s mind and shows young readers how the things they do every single day can be guided by principles we must share in a democratic society: freedom, fairness, the rule of law, equality, respect for free speech, and respect for the truth.

By modeling accessible ways to practice being a good citizen, children will understand they are part of their country and that they have an important role to play.

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Special

NEEDS

Working to Keep Kids Together — Virtually How to help kids with special needs stay social this winter

By Rosemarie Griffin

A

s every family deals with the COVID-19 pandemic in its own unique way, many of the natural opportunities to socialize with others — in-person storytimes, dine-in restaurants or birthday celebrations — have decreased or gone away for students with special needs and those who have social goals on their individualized education programs (IEPs).

Ensuring all children have contact with friends and family on a regular basis, even in a virtual manner, is important.

With winter looming, here are some ways to get the most out of virtual social opportunities.

VIRTUAL PLAYDATE

If you are invited to or initiate a virtual playdate on Zoom or another platform, consider whether your child uses a visual schedule at school or as a part of his or her IEP. If so, your child may benefit from making a schedule for the playdate. One activity could be telling everyone to bring his or her favorite toy and sharing it with their friends.

You may want to practice these skills before the virtual playdate. Practice what toy your child will bring, how he or she will show or demonstrate it to friends and what he or she will say about it. Taking a break during a virtual meeting may be a good idea for students who have difficulty staying engaged. If it’s difficult for your child to wait while the other children share their toys, mute his mic and allow him to get up from the computer area and walk around a bit. If the children are older, they can take turns sharing their favorite online videos. For example, your child could tell her friends what YouTube channels she subscribes to and why she likes the videos.

GET ACTIVE WITH VIRTUAL YOGA

INTERACTIVE EDUCATIONAL TRIPS

A fun way to work on language and get away without leaving the comfort of your home is to take virtual field trips. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is one attraction that offers this opportunity.

Consider reading a book about the aquarium with your child and visiting the live jellyfish cam!

Or are you more into an adventure to Alaska?

Watch the live bear cam at Katmai National Park & Preserve. You can see the bears eating salmon, walking through the water and interacting with one another. Then have your child work on recalling details for family members who could not join the virtual field trip.

What skills is your child working on at school with teachers and speech therapists? If he’s working on labeling, have him label the different things he saw on the trip. If you come across something he doesn’t know the label for, provide a model and name it for him, then have him repeat it back. This also is a good practice for introducing new vocabulary.

Miss those opportunities for group activities? Invite your child’s friends to an online yoga session. Cosmic Kids Yoga (youtube.com/user/cosmickidsyoga) has themed yoga videos that engage children. A virtual yoga class allows your child to work on participating in a group activity with others, following directions and learning a new leisure skill. Students with special needs may be working on following one- and two-step directions. A yoga class will allow you to generalize those skills to the home environment. Working on play and leisure skills is another area that may be addressed with your child at school. If your child is having difficulty following along, guide her by providing prompts and showing her how to do the poses.

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MANAGING VIRTUAL CELEBRATIONS

If you’re hosting a remote party, invite family and friends and let your child know that the Zoom celebration will be taking place. Priming your child for the event, providing a schedule and practicing the language he or she may use to participate will ensure a positive experience.

Be sure to have a schedule for the online celebration; children can get antsy when things are not planned or run too long. Practice ways to interact prior to the session. If your child is working on conversation skills, start the celebration with this skill. Is your child working on answering specific conversation questions (i.e. “How’s it going?”

“What did you have for lunch?”)? If your child is working on answering or asking social questions, tell your friends and family prior to the virtual celebration. Working on these skills with individuals outside of school will allow your child to generalize those skills to a natural environment.

If your child is working on greetings, have him greet family members who are logged on for the virtual celebration.

Rosemarie Griffin, MA, CCC/SLP BCBA, is a speech therapist and board certified behavior analyst.

She is the founder of ABA Speech (abaspeech.org), which provides speech therapy services and educational products for students with autism and other complex needs.

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PART THREE

THE MION CHILDREN SPENDING TIME OUTDOORS. PHOTO SUBMITTED

BY SARA MION

and Life Juggling School, Work Q HOW FAMILIES ARE NAVIGATING DAILY LIFE AND HELPING THEIR KIDS COPE DURING THE PANDEMIC

By Sara Macho Hill

I

n this special three-part series, Northeast Ohio Parent magazine concludes its coverage tracking the back-to-school experiences of four Ohio families: the Mions, the Hopkinses, the Hawks and the Rawsons.

In this final segment, the four families discuss the dynamics of coping with their new normal of school, work and life, along with how they help their kids navigate the mental stress during these times.

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Mion Family Update Medina Various schooling options “Right now, I’m talking to you from inside my car where I know the kids won’t be playing and running around,” Sara Mion says as she begins our phone interview.

Like many parents balancing school and career during the pandemic, the Medina mom and preschool teacher is juggling many roles, and sometimes the family car is the only place to find solitude. She returned to the classroom in September after a 10-year hiatus from working.

As a family, it’s taken a lot of learning to respect one another’s boundaries and give one another intentional space, Mion says.

The Mion family is implementing a traditional homeschooling program for their elementary-aged daughters, a district-provided online learning platform for their two middle school boys and in-person preschool where Mion teaches for their younger son. Since the pandemic began, Mion says she has noticed a shift in her children and a collective realization that household tasks don’t just magically get done — that it takes a team approach.

The older children earn money by babysitting their youngest siblings and pitch in by tidying up the kitchen, folding laundry and performing other duties that mom and dad typically shouldered

Hopkins Family Update Willowick Virtual school option After direct exposure to COVID-19 at elementary schools in the Willoughby-Eastlake City School District, Superintendent Steve Thompson closed all buildings and transitioned the entire student body to virtual learning in October. Extracurricular activities also were suspended during that time; however, some resumed. Teens Juliana Hopkins, 15, and her brother, John-Michael, 13, have been enrolled in remote learning since the school year started. (At the time this article was printed, the school district voted for students who were in-person classes to return to the school building on October 26, however, parents were given the option to keep their students virtually.)

“I’m relieved because everyone will be safer, but I’m also worried that we’ll go at a much slower pace because everyone is virtual, and there will be a learning curve for the students who went in-person before,” Juliana says.

Having everyone in remote learning will bring a greater sense of camaraderie and belonging, says John-Michael, who has battled feelings of isolation and boredom during his time as a virtual learner.

“Remote learning feels the same every day,” he says. “It’s not as active. I will say that I have gotten more comfortable with it, except there is a lot of work that comes with it.

in pre-COVID-19 life.

And while the family is still busy, it’s a different kind of busy that’s more about finding balance and taking stock of what’s important and what serves one another, Mion says.

Her two homeschooled daughters are doing a supplemental writing assignment using the “American Girl” book series that features the fictional stories of girls growing up in various time periods. Her daughters have invented stories for a doll who is growing up during the global coronavirus pandemic.

“They wrote that the girl had said, ‘See

Now, with everybody going to school in the same way, everybody will feel the same way and they’ll know what we’ve had to do.”

Their mom, Sally, a longtime art teacher at Memorial School in Cleveland, says her family members are doing the best they can since the pandemic changed schooling.

They frequently “check in” with one another and spend their days in different areas of their home to help break up tension and cope. Being all together under the same roof weighs on her.

“Let’s face it, as much as we love each other, we need time and space apart,” Hopkins says. “We aren’t getting that. My concern is that although we have separate workspaces, we end up in that same space for the duration of the day into night. For example, John-Michael is in his bedroom during school hours.

He comes up for air for lunch and dinner and then retreats to his room for homework and down time. There is not enough movement and change of scenery. He does have karate three times a week, which offers him a new space, but that’s only three hours a week.”

So far, at least, the weather has been nice enough for the family to be outside in the fresh air some of the time, but Hopkins says she’s concerned about what will happen when winter weather sets in.

“How will we manage the constant indoors? They say people suffer from depression during the winter months because of the lack of sun and exposure,” she says. “How will that affect us this year?”

The teens stay connected

by texting, gaming and video chatting with friends and keeping in mind that their situation is temporary. Hopkins gets support from educational groups on Facebook and her teacher coworkers, who connect through texts, calls and virtual meetings. Teaching during a pandemic has forced everyone out of their comfort zones and given her school family the opportunity to grow as educators, she says. The constant support provides much-needed relief, but the family still has tough days like everyone else.

“We also know that this new normal is always changing, so it’s hard to adjust to a normal that doesn’t stay the same,” Hopkins says. “As a mom and a teacher, I have to remind myself to stay positive. There are certainly times that I feel overwhelmed and struggle, but I know that I’m not alone in feeling this way. I think people get frustrated in the ever-changing status of COVID and the unknown of what’s yet to come.”

you Monday!’ to her friend at the end of the school day, and then that she never saw her friend again on Monday,” Mion says. “They are remembering their own experiences and what life has been like. It’s a good outlet for them to turn it into a school assignment.”

The family also has taken learning on the road, visiting the Serpent Mound, a prehistoric effigy in southern Ohio, and going to parks for hiking, running and outdoor play as part of physical education requirements.

While it has been difficult for the family not to see many other people and to remind their youngest children about social distanc-

ing (“I wish it’s something they didn’t have to think about,” notes Mion), the pandemic has taught the family many positives.

“It’s a time to slow down and do things as a family that we didn’t make time for before or have the time to do before,” Mion says.

“We’ve had more game nights, movie nights, and right now my kids are inside tasting popcorn seasonings because on Fridays we now do popcorn night, and they’re picking out what we’re having tonight. We’re focusing on the things we didn’t have time for while still acknowledging the normalcy that we miss.”

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE HOPKINS FAMILY

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Hawk Family Update Chagrin Falls Hybrid and remote options

“I’m lucky that our teens still like us. We haven’t had hard times in that way.We get along well, and we all have distinctive places at home that we’ve carved out for ourselves. My kids will shut their bedroom doors or go down to the basement to watch a movie. We don’t come together for dinner anymore … we have enough together time all day.”

—Carrie Hawk

14 | Family Living at Its Best

At press time, the Chagrin Falls Exempted Village Schools were surveying families, asking them whether they would pursue full-time, in-person classes if given the choice. In October, Chagrin Falls High School had two confirmed cases of COVID-19 and more than 20 high schoolers quarantined, says parent Carrie Hawk. Her daughter Celia, 16, would pursue going back full time, while Theo, 14, would continue his studies virtually. Celia’s school schedule has her dividing time between in-class instruction and virtual learning at home on the computer. Both teens have grown and matured in the time since school began, their mom says.

“Celia has gotten more independent and braver with her driving,” Hawk says. “For example, on the way home from school, she’ll stop at the library without asking me if she can.

My son definitely has his schedule down and has the ability to be where he needs to be without being reminded.”

The family members have different parts of their home they retreat to, she says.

“I’m lucky that our teens still like us,” she says, jokingly. “We haven’t had hard times in that way. We get along well, and we all have distinctive places at home that we’ve carved out for ourselves. My kids will shut their bedroom doors or go down to the basement to watch a movie. We don’t come together for dinner anymore … we have enough together time all day.”

Their time at home has made the days stretch longer and has changed the way Hawk divides her time working and parenting.

If she steps away from her home desk midafternoon, she’ll pick up where she left off with work later in the evening. She’ll also work a few hours over the weekend if she wrapped up a workday early during the week.

“I think this time is both a curse and a blessing,” she says.

“It’s nice to be able to wake up, have coffee, do some work, do a load of laundry, and then get back to work. But then there’s the distractions, like at lunchtime knowing the kids are going to ask me what’s to eat. My son does his virtual schooling at the dining room table, and every once in a while I’ll hear him sigh just out of frustration and I immediately go into my mom role, thinking how can I help him, and that weighs on you.”

Carrie follows Facebook groups like “Camp Quarantine” for parental support and has recently begun getting together with some fellow mom friends, but it’s not enough.

“I don’t feel the schools have been great at providing support for the noneducational part of school to the all-virtual kids,” she says.

“There’s really no time factored in where the kids can just get together to have a virtual hangout. The social support hasn’t been there for the adults, either, but it’s easier for me as an adult to handle that. It’s harder for the kids.”

Rawson Family Update Cuyahoga Falls Virtual school option

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE RAWSON FAMILY

Stephanie Rawson is starting to second guess her choice to do remote learning with her daughters, Mayla, 13, and Lilah, 12. The girls are in gifted, accelerated classes and the workload is mounting.

Tension is building among parents.

“This semester has been hard,” Rawson says. “The amount of work that is falling on their shoulders is upsetting.”

The arrival of colder temperatures also concerns Rawson. Like many families, the Rawsons spend some of their time socializing outdoors with a limited number of friends. She worries her daughters will feel trapped inside once it’s too cold to be outdoors. Lilah has an autoimmune disorder that prompted the family to sign up for their school district’s remote learning program. When it comes to socializing and finding support from others, the family has been selective.

“There are two families that we have decided to include in our close social circle,” Rawson says. “I feel like the very limited contact that we have with them is helping, but I’m scared that once the weather turns that we will be limited. I honestly feel for my sweet girls. At ages 13 and 12, they should be surrounded by friends and at school. I know that they are missing out on some very important social milestones right now.”

As Northeast Ohio Parent magazine’s time with the family draws to a close, Rawson concludes that the last several months have taken a toll on her family.

“I hope that we have more information regarding the virus soon because we are ready to move on,” she says. “I am ready for this mess to be over.”

Sara Macho Hill is a journalist living in North Royalton with her husband and three daughters. A contributor to Northeast Ohio Parent magazine, she also serves as a staff reporter for the Royalton Recorder local newspaper, writing feature articles and penning a parenting and family lifestyle column. She enjoys reading, spending time with her family at the Lake Erie Islands and exercising at her local YMCA. If she’s lucky, she catches a 20-minute power nap each afternoon and frequently spends her time reheating the morning coffee she was too busy to drink.

THANK YOU to all participants, sponsors and exhibitors that attended the Northeast Ohio Parent Education & STEM Expo 2020!

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Connecting Through

•

s t r A

By Ginny McCabe

COMMUNITY ARTS ORGANIZATIONS EMBRACE VIRTUAL AND IN-PERSON OPPORTUNITIES FOR YOUTH

T

he joys of youth theater are endless, whether they are experienced in person or in a virtual world. Although the arts community has been hit hard by the pandemic, local arts organizations and community centers throughout the Greater Cleveland area have continued to find innovative ways to offer a hybrid of virtual and in-person classes and productions that engage youth and their families.

“I think everybody recognizes these are unprecedented times,” says Jeannie Fleming-Gifford, executive director of Fairmount Center for the Arts.

“What we’ve learned is that the arts are important in our children’s lives, in our families’ lives and in our community. So, with that, I think we are all grateful to be a part of making theater happen, even if it’s not in the traditional way we know and love. We’re just saying, ‘Well, we need to pivot and do things differently, because this is important.’”

About 15 kids in the Fairmount Youth Theatre program, for kids ages 7-14, have been meeting for Saturday morning classes on Zoom to create a debut fall show, “Big Radio Broadcast of 2020,” which will be performed on Zoom. The show will consist largely of short skits and songs, and it will be a non-ticketed performance that will be

16 | Family Living at Its Best

recorded and shared on Fairmount’s YouTube channel with family and friends after the Nov. 21 performance. An online holiday story-telling production also is planned for December. In-person classes will host a Sharing Day following the completion of each class to showcase what kids learned.

David Malinowski, the Roger and Anne Clapp Chair of Performing Arts at The Fine Arts Association, shares a few of the ways the organization is keeping theater in the hearts and minds of kids across the region.

“The biggest reason is that theater is the chance for the participant to become someone and something other than themselves for a little while, and in a lot of ways, that helps our younger students be able to deal with the new emotions that they are feeling through this time,” Malinowski says. “Kids can use their theater skills in uncertain times like these MISS DORIANNE’S “FROZEN” to deal with emotions like THEATRE EDUCATION CLASS. fear and anxiety, or express PHOTO SUBMITTED BY themThe selves through the THE FINE ARTS ASSOCIATION characters they’re playing.”

The Fine Arts Association offered virtual classes from March through the summer semester. Starting with the fall semester, patrons could choose whether they wanted classes in-person, virtual or a hybrid of both.

“The popularity seemed to be in-person classes at least for the fall, so that’s why all of our theater classes are in-person,” Ma-

“ZOPP” REHEARSAL PHOTO BY BECK CENTER FOR THE ARTS

linowski says. “The dance, visual arts and our music lessons are split in that hybrid model with some classes in-person and others virtual. Many of the students had a strong desire to return to in-person classes because they missed the camaraderie and being with friends and teachers. They’re just so excited to be somewhere other than home for a little bit, and to see their teachers in person that they’ve been seeing on a screen for so long,” Beck Center for the Arts also has offered in-person and online courses in the fall, including theater, music, dance, Creative Arts Therapies and visual arts.

“Theater is one of those areas where we are definitely seeing more students in our in-person classes,” says Sarah Clare, associate director of theater education at Beck Center for the Arts. “Summer camps and classes have been working really well online. We have been able to see a lot of progress online, but I do think that slight difference of being able to look over at their neighbor and say something is huge for students of all ages.”

Beck Center for the Arts recently performed a virtual Youth Theater production of “Zopp,” for which patrons could set their own ticketing price by donation. Written and directed by Russel Stich, the show is a parody on video conference calls like Zoom and WebEx and it was created to reflect what youth theater is like during a pandemic. There were 34 students in the cast.

“The students are doing an amazing job,” Clare says. “They are not only doing the acting side of things — and rocking it that way — but they are becoming prop masters, costumers and make-up artists, lighting designers and technicians, and they are doing all of it from home. I love that aspect of it. We are releasing some beautiful creativity from our students.”

Even as some organizations struggle with continued delays or cancellations of certain aspects of their programs, the arts community has embraced keeping kids — and adults — engaged in theater and arts, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The arts — and theater, specifically — are important during this time because it provides our youth with a healthy way of expressing themselves, communicating, and connecting with other people during a time which many of us feel alone,” Fleming-Gifford says.

YOUTH THEATRE PRE-COVID-19 PHOTO SUBMITTED BY FAIRMOUNT CENTER FOR THE ARTS

November 2020 - NortheastOhioParent.com

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Education

NEWS

Notre Dame College helps Students Strained

by COVID-19 with a Surprise Day

STUDENTS ENJOY GAMES AND CRAFTS DURING FALCON COMMUNITY DAY. PHOTOS BY DAVE E. HALL

Notre Dame College held its first Falcon Community Day on Oct. 7, which meant all on-campus and synchronous classes were canceled for students. Faculty and staff were notified of the special event prior but kept the secret from their students. The day was planned by Notre Dame’s COVID-19 committee with support from the college’s administrative cabinet. Notre Dame is conducting courses and campus activities in person, while following social distancing and related health and safety guidelines.

The day featured a series of events, including a live, outdoor musical performance from Notre Dame President J. Michael Pressimone. Pressimone, a baritone, performed classics on guitar, including “The River” by Bruce Springsteen.

He was accompanied by Gerald “Jerry” Hayes, director of the college’s counseling center, also on guitar.

“Falcon Community Day is a day for the campus community to focus on wellness and balance,” says Tera Johnson, dean of students. “It is a day with no classes, where students, faculty and staff can come together without the stresses imposed on everyone during a typical weekday during the semester.”

The day started with cider and donuts on the lawn and featured tie dying face masks, t-shirts and pillowcases; lawn games like cornhole and spikeball; and the opportunity to craft gift bags as part of a service project. Apples and grilled hot dogs were offered at lunch, along with the chance to interact with therapy dogs. Information tents provided details about resources from the college’s Counseling Center, Student Success Center and First Generation, or FirstGen, Center. Popcorn snacks were shared in the afternoon, and “cupcakes and canvas” art projects took place at dusk.

Compliance with social distancing and other Ohio Department of Health guidelines was required during all Falcon Community Day programs. Students, faculty and staff are required to wear facial coverings in campus buildings at all times. The typical college academic calendar calls for two days off in October for fall break, but this year Notre Dame condensed its semester as part of COVID-19 protocols.

“This day is about coming together as a community during this challenging time, recognizing that we can support one another,” Johnson says.

—Submitted by Notre Dame College

18 | Family Living at Its Best

NOTRE DAME COLLEGE PRESIDENT DR. MICHAEL PRESSIMONE ON THE GUITAR. PHOTO BY DAVE E. HALL

PICTURED: 5TH GRADERS AT ST. JOSEPH PARISH SCHOOL PARTICIPATING IN THE FIRST PROGRAM OF THE SERIES. PHOTOS COURTESY OF CUYAHOGA FALLS LIBRARY

Library Hosts Virtual Classes for Local Schools

The Cuyahoga Falls Library launched a new virtual program series for local schools.

Missy Littell, customer experience manager at Cuyahoga Falls Library, is leading the 3D Print and MakerSpace program along with Carolanne Tkach, technology trainer. St. Joseph Parish School piloted the program that other local schools can replicate.

The library held the first class remotely in early October. Subsequent programs will continue through November for grades fifth through eighth. The classes were virtual tours of the MakerSpace with a paper circuit activity at the end. The library dis-

tributed kits ahead of time so students could follow along live. November classes are 3D print design where all students will make a bookmark. Bookmarks will be printed and then delivered to the school after the course ends.

“We are excited to bring the MakerSpace to students,” says Littell, who organized the program and leads the library’s MakerSpace and tech classes. “We know teachers face new challenges with COVID-19. This partnership is one of many ways the library can offer critical support and variety to the

lesson plans. We strive to be a continued resource for STEM growth and educational development.”

Teachers interested in offering similar programs to their classes may contact Littell at mlittell@cuyahogafallslibrary.org or 330928-2117 ext. 112. Virtual classes can be customized to suit the needs of grades 2-12.

For more information on virtual MakerSpace programs for all ages, visit cuyahogafallslibrary.org/calendar.

—Submitted by Cuyahoga Falls Library

November 2020 - NortheastOhioParent.com

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FALL OPEN HOUSES

Mastery School 11025 Magnolia Drive, Cleveland 440-423-4446, hawken.edu Nov. 22: 1 p.m.

(Open House)

CLEVELAND MONTESSORI SCHOOL

12510 Mayfield Road, Cleveland 216-421-0700, clevelandmontessori.org Nov. 4: 5 p.m.

(Virtual Open House) Nov. 7 (Schedule in-person tour)

HAWKEN SCHOOL

Lower & Middle Schools 5000 Clubside Road, Lyndhurst 440-423-4446, hawken.edu Nov. 15: 1 p.m. (Open House) Upper School 12465 County Line Road, Gates Mills 440-423-4446, hawken.edu Nov. 8: 1 p.m. (Open House)

Birchwood School 4400 W. 140th St., Cleveland 216-251-2321, birchwoodschool.org Nov. 18: 2 p.m. (Open House)

LAKE RIDGE ACADEMY 37501 Center Ridge Road, North Ridgeville 440-327-1175, lakeridgeacademy.org Lower School, Middle School & Upper School Nov. 17: 5:30 p.m. (Virtual) Dec. 8: 5:30 p.m. (Virtual) Kindergarten Readiness Nov. 16: 5:30 p.m. (Virtual) Dec. 7: 5:30 p.m. (Virtual)

JULIE BILLIART SCHOOLS Akron 380 Mineola Ave., Akron 330-333-5280, juliebilliartschool.org Nov. 11: 6-7:30 p.m. (Virtual) Dec. 2: 9-10:30 a.m. (Virtual)

Lyndhurst 4982 Clubside Road, Lyndhurst 216-381-1191, juliebilliartschool.org Nov. 4: 6-7:30 p.m. (Virtual) Dec. 9: 9-10:30 a.m. (Virtual)

20 | Family Living at Its Best

Westlake 3600 Crocker Road, Westlake 440-471-4150, juliebilliartschool.org Nov. 18: 9-10:30 a.m. (In-Person) Nov. 18: 6-7:30 p.m. (Virtual) Dec. 16: 9-10:30 a.m. (In-Person) Dec. 16: 6-7:30 p.m. (Virtual)

RUFFING MONTESSORI SCHOOL

3380 Fairmount Blvd., Cleveland Heights 216-321-7571, ruffingmontessori.net Nov. 14: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. (pre-registration required) Jan. 23

SETON CATHOLIC SCHOOL 6923 Stow Road, Hudson 330-342-4200, setoncatholicschool.org Nov. 15: 2-4 p.m.

Jan. 31: 2-4 p.m.

ST. HILARY SCHOOL

645 Moorfield Road, Fairlawn 330-867-8720 ext. 343, st-hilaryschool.org Kindergarten Kaleidoscope Virtual Open House Register by 12/31/20: dsinopoli@st-hilary.org K-8 Virtual Open House Register by 1/15/21: dsinopoli@st-hilary.org

ST. SEBASTIAN PARISH SCHOOL

500 Mull Ave., West Akron 330-836-9107, stsebastian.org/school Nov. 20: 8:30-9:30 a.m. (Virtual) Jan. 31: 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

UNIVERSITY SCHOOL Hunting Valley Campus (Grades 9-12) 2785 SOM Center Road, Hunting Valley 216-831-2200, us.edu

Shaker Heights Campus (Junior Kindergarten-Grade 8) 20701 Brantley Road, Shaker Heights 216-321-8260, us.edu Virtual campus tours available.

November 2020 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 21

w Kinley and her parents, Chris and Laura, having fun with a wishbone at Cleveland Metroparks Huntington Reservation in Bay Village.

22 | Family Living at Its Best 22 | Family Living at Its Best

ishes w FOR HOME

NORTHEAST OHIOANS SHARE INSPIRING ADOPTION STORIES STORY BY ANGELA GARTNER PHOTO BY KIM STAHNKE

Family happens in all different ways.

You bring someone in your life because you want them to be there. That’s how adoption works. It’s about opening your home and making room for love. In these challenging times, it might make it difficult to think about the possibility of adoption or foster care. Most families who have gone through the process of adoption say it’s worth it, although it takes time, some patience and, often, a few heartaches to complete.

Kinley Blake’s Story Laura Watilo Blake and her husband, Chris Blake, of Bay Village, met at the University of Missouri in their Spanish classes. Both have been immersed in South American culture over the years, whether traveling or working overseas.

Years later, the married couple decided to pursue adoption — domestically and internationally, specifically in the Spanish-speaking countries of Colombia and Ecuador.

“Chris and I always had the intention to grow our family through adoption ever since we were in college,” Laura says. “It was always ‘someday we will adopt.’ It was only when we started reaching the end of our 30s that we said, ‘maybe someday is now.’’

“We investigated very carefully what agency to use — domestic and international,” Chris Blake says. “Laura was the first one to stir the possibility (of adoption) in my mind. It’s just another way to start a family.”

November November 2020 2020 -- NortheastOhioParent.com NortheastOhioParent.com

23 || 23

“Chris was on the board of Adoption Network Cleveland, which was instrumental in helping us start the process, find an agency and offer support.” Laura says.

Chris Blake adds the process — which includes volumes of personal disclosures, background checks, home studies, travel and expenses — took six years for the couple, who used international agency Children’s Home Society of Minnesota.

Waiting to hear if a child is available can be heart-breaking for most families, including the Blakes.

“We were keeping all our options open at that point,” Laura Blake says, adding international adoption has become harder to do.

“We are not ones to give up easily,” Chris Blake says. He notes couples should carefully research their options and be their own best advocates because no one will have your best interests at heart more than you.

Once the couple did get a referral, it was from Colombia.

Laura says the Blakes’ social worker told them the referral was a special needs case. However, when they met their daughter, Kinley, 2 at the time, that wasn’t the case. Although, she was ill with pneumonia.

“We went on faith — this is who we wanted,” Laura Blake says.

Chris Blake says he’s never been more excited in his life than when the couple was traveling to meet their daughter, and he had to keep his emotions in check.

“I really wanted to be a father,” he says. “Right when we met Kinley, I remember turning to Laura and saying, ‘That’s it, I am done.’ Kinley already had me wrapped around her finger.”

Kinley, who’s now 6, has parents who also help her embrace her Colombian culture.

Chris, Laura and Kinley have traveled to Colombia every year since the adoption, seeing friends they met during the process.

Kinley also has attended the Mi Pueblo Culture Camp, a local summer camp created to give adopted children from Latin America an opportunity to learn about Latino culture through music, dance, art and language. Also, the Blakes are involved in the Ohio Colombian Foundation, which is the sponsoring organization for the first Latino garden in the Cleveland Cultural Gardens along Martin Luther King Drive.

“We participate in events like One World Day and Hispanic Heritage Month,” Laura says. “One of the teachers from Mi Pueblo, Luzelena Klopp, is from Colombia and has taught Kinley traditional dances from Colombia, and eventually we’d like to put a troupe together (after the pandemic) to help raise funds for the garden project. I can’t wait for Kinley to have a public space in Cleveland to call her own, where she can show off her Colombia pride.”

The COVID-19 pandemic has limited their travel to Colombia, but Laura Blake says they were able to have other virtual opportunities to connect with friends and attend camp.

“I have never been a part of something so special,” Laura Blake says about her daughter’s dual citizenship. “There is another whole country we adopted. Colombia is like a second home to us.”

24 | Family Living at Its Best

PHOTOS SUBMITTED BY LAURA WATILO BLAKE

Top: Kinley and her doll Anna Guatape.

Center: Kinley in a field in Colombia.

Below: The family staying connected in Colombia, and Chris and Kinley in Cartagena, Colombia.

lucky wishbone Laura Watilo Blake and her husband, Chris Blake, of Bay Village, sent a wishbone necklace with a thank you and a poem to the Colombian liaison after adopting Kinley. “I wrote it using good luck symbols as my inspiration,” says Laura Watilo Blake, who wrote the poem before leaving their three-week stay in Colombia. “It was part of a thank you gift to my liaison who has since become a great friend and godmother to Kinley.

It comes down to the fact that we were so lucky to have grown our family through adoption and to have found our daughter. She was meant to be with us.”

Thanks to the furcula, most birds can fly.

So, make your wish.

Come on, give it a try.

You have the power to make dreams come true.

Fly after them and and they'll come into view.

The more you believe, the luckier you will be.

We should know, becuase you helped us find our family.

— Laura Watilo Blake

Daniel Ramos' Story

PHOTO BY ANNA WELCH

For Gertrudis (Trudy) and Jose Ramos of North Olmsted, July 30 represented the end of a long journey. The COVID-19 pandemic hindered their opportunity to stand before the judge with family and friends for the adoption of their son, Daniel; instead, the ceremony was held virtually. Still, Trudy Ramos says there was a flood of emotions when signing the papers.

The couple, who have two daughters, began the process of foster and adoption as a licensed foster family in 2015 through the Cuyahoga County Division of Children and Family Services. Within a few weeks, the agency placed a baby girl with their family; however, after several months of fostering, she was united with a family member.

It caused a lot of emotional stress for the immediate and extended Ramos family. They began to think of the impact foster care has on everyone.

Trudy Ramos says they thought they were done fostering until they got a call in January 2017 about a premature 4-week-old boy who needed to be placed.

November 2020 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 25

“I called my husband and I told him I felt like we needed to pick him up,” she says.

The baby, Daniel, who was exposed to drugs, had issues with feeding as an infant. Now, at almost age 4, he has developmental delays and other challenges.

Trudy Ramos says in each milestone, he works harder to learn the next task he has to master.

“First healing, getting to that acceptance, (and) putting your heart out there again,” Trudy Ramos says. Adoption and foster care can be difficult, but to her family, the rewards GERTRUDIS (TRUDY) AND JOSE RAMOS, OF NORTH OLMSTED, MEET DANIEL FOR have been worth the heartTHE FIRST TIME AT THE HOSPITAL WHEN ache. Daniel and every child HE WAS 4 WEEKS OLD. they have brought into their home as a foster family have brought joy and love to their immediate and extended family.

“Your whole world changes for the better,” she says. “Things do get more hectic with one more child, but what you get in return is so much more.

It’s the greatest thing we’ve ever done.”

Adjusting to COVID-19 Foster care and adoption agencies work to overcome the challenges the pandemic has brought to children and families.

The COVID-19 pandemic has certainly changed many lives and daily routines. For foster care and adoption care agencies, there has been an adjustment to the challenges, but there also is still a need to serve families in the community.

“The biggest hurdles that our foster/adoptive caregivers have to overcome is twofold,” says Gene Tetrick, supervisor, substitute care unit at Lake County Department of Job and Family Services. “Oftentimes, our caregivers accept placement of children with a lot of unknowns to their history, and being exposed to COVID-19 was another unknown that they considered when accepting placement in their home. The other hurdle is getting children entering into custody tested for the virus. Despite this, the foster and adoptive caregivers in Lake County have been willing to bring children into their home when they need a safe place.”

The pandemic has affected how many children are entering the system, with some agencies like Cuyahoga County and Summit County decreasing slightly at

- Adoption Profiles • Sponsored Content -

264 S. Arlington Street Akron 24-Hour Foster Care & Adoption Inquiry Line: 330-379-1990 summitkids.org

“The number of children in the custody of the

agency has increased by

more than 45 percent since 2013, and our need for

n

foster and adoptive homes is greater than ever.”

— Julie Barnes, Executive Director.

26 | Family Living at Its Best

THE HUBBERT FAMILY

A

t Summit County Children Services (SCCS), adoption helps to provide what children need most … a permanent, forever family.

There are 155 children in permanent custody of SCCS with 40 children with no specific plan for permanency. They are boys and girls of various ages and siblings who want to remain together.

You must be 18 years old to adopt.

You can also: • Be married, single, widowed, divorced or have a domestic partner.

• Be a homeowner or renter.

• Have other children currently in the home, be never parented or be an ‘empty nester.’

The process to adopt includes attending an information meeting; completing the required training and paperwork; having a background check done; and a home study completed.

Agency staff is with you every step of the process.

Adoption is permanent, lifelong and life-changing. The benefits are many, but the most important is providing a child with a forever family.

first, but their numbers are moving back up. Lake County has seen an increase in children over the past year.

“At the start of the COVID-19 crisis, when children were suddenly not in school, we saw a significant drop in referrals to our hotline,” says Beverly Torres, senior manager of permanency support, Cuyahoga County Division of Children and Family Services. “However, those numbers are returning to normal.”

With the kids entering the system and children still needing placement, the cancellations of in-person events have taken a toll on agencies.

“Most, if not all, activities including recruitment and adoption mixers have been canceled or could not move forward,” says Ann Ream, department director of community relations and foster care for Summit County Children Services. “The face-to-face activities have ceased due to safety concerns, which has made ongoing engagement and recruitment a bit more challenging in some respects.”

Some children and families who were hoping to be in court to sign adoption papers weren’t able to attend in person.

While adoptions are still taking place, many are being held virtually, or if they are at the courthouse, there are a limited number of family members who can attend the hearing.

“Families have to come up with creative ways to celebrate their adoption day and make the most of their special occasion in providing a permanent, forever family to children in need,” Ream says.

However, technology also has offered virtual opportunities for prospective adoptive parents to get started with the process.

This scenario has provided some unexpected benefits for families.

“The process for training has been quicker due to offering virtual options,” Ream says. “By using technology, we are still able to provide quality services in the best interest of the child, while continuing to offer support, including virtual options, which in many cases has been a time saver.”

The main issue is safety and exposure to the virus, which agencies have been addressing to keep families safe, along with helping their current foster parents with different supports.

“We looked at flexibility and doing Zoom visits where possible with our caregivers or meeting outside with them to ensure social distancing to keep them safe,” Tetrick says. “We also simplified vis-

its where we could to limit the children’s and our caregiver’s exposure to multiple people to increase their safety. The social workers for the foster/adoptive caregivers also provided more supports over the phone and checked in more often to see how our caregivers were doing and to process out any concerns they might be having.”

The agencies advise families who are in-

terested in foster care/adoption to continue with the process because there are many virtual platforms to help and follow the health guidelines.

“Families in general are struggling with managing jobs, virtual school, closed daycares and keeping kids busy,” Torres adds. “But, resiliency has been the key to moving forward with finalizing adoptions.”

November 2020 - NortheastOhioParent.com

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- Adoption Profiles • Sponsored Content -

10427 Detroit Avenue Cleveland 216-521-6511 applewoodcenters.org

“A family is

having someone

Foster Care and Foster-to-Adopt at Applewood Centers

who cares about

q

you and loves you.

Living with my foster family, I am home.”

—Cheyenne, age 15

H

ere in Northeast Ohio, thousands of children are in need of foster care each year. As a foster parent, you can help keep children safe, provide them with a loving home, and allow them to be children.

If reunification with a child’s biological family is not possible and you would like to provide a forever home, the Foster-toAdopt program can guide you through the process.

Training and Support We provide the all the training and support needed for our parents to be successful, including: • Monthly stipend to support the foster youth in your home • Ongoing training • In-home support for caregivers and youth • 24/7 on-call service • Priority access to counseling and psychiatry services at Applewood • Foster parent support group, social events and educational seminars

If you are interested in helping a child in need, visit applewoodcenters.org or call Margot Williams at 216-521-6511.

275 Martinel Drive, Kent 330-673-6339

T

he Bair Foundation provides Christ-centered quality care and services dedicated to the treatment, restoration and empowerment of children, youth and families. The Bair Foundation Child & Family Ministries is a national organization that has successfully cared for and treated children, teens and families since 1967. It supports foster families through the certification process and after the placement is made.

Families are well trained to ensure their success as they foster children and teens. Bair believes that foster families are the agents of change and wants them to feel loved, appreciated and valued. Knowing every child is unique, Bair facilitates Individual Service Plans for every child in care to address the

28 | Family Living at Its Best

individual needs of each child using input from every member of the treatment team. With 32 offices in nine states Bair offers a myriad of community-based services which include: therapeutic & specialized foster care, traditional foster care, foster-to-adoption services, medically-needy foster care, in-home services, assessment home, and outpatient services. The Bair Foundation has been accredited by Council on Accreditation since 2002 and is a member of Alliance for Children and Families; Christian Alliance for Orphans; Family Focused Treatment Association; National Foster Parent Association; and the National Association of Christian Child and Family Agencies.

n

“ Kids come first…

Always; because they are God’s

greatest gift!”

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Our mission is to provide a loving, stable home to every child in need. We work tirelessly

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to create an environment that embraces the

unique set of circumstances each of our birth parents, prospective adoptive parents and children bring to us. Our goal is to create

families who can successfully meet the long term needs of our nation’s unseen children.

O

9205 State Route 43; Suite 208 Streetsboro 330-697-4751 openarmsadopt.com

pen Arms Adoptions believes that every child deserves a permanent family. This includes more than 3,000 foster care children in Ohio who are available for adoption. Open Arms Adoptions works tirelessly to meet the unique circumstances that our adoptive families and children present them. As a full-service, nonprofit agency, they work with birth parents, adoptive families and the foster care system to create forever families. Their highly trained and experienced social workers provide ongoing support to ensure success for all families, long after the adoptions are finalized.

Open Arms Adoptions’ key initiative is Keeping Siblings Together by Adoption. Seventy percent of children in foster care have one or more siblings also in foster care, and sometimes they are separated. You can support this initiative through participation in the Annual Wine Pull on Nov. 7. The event is virtual this year. For more information, visit openarmsadopt.com/events.

November 2020 - NortheastOhioParent.com

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- Adoption Profiles • Sponsored Content -

Bellefaire JCB One Pollock Circle 22001 Fairmount Boulevard Shaker Heights 216-932-2800 InfoADP@bellefairejcb.org

Bellefaire JCB: Creating Forever Families

o

30 | Family Living at Its Best

A

doption provides children with the love and permanency they need and deserve. It can also fill the longing that many families have to complete or expand their circle of love, or help birth parents find a loving and stable home for their baby.

Bellefaire JCB was founded as an orphanage in 1868 and, since those first experiences caring for children without permanent homes, has become one of the nation’s longest-established child placement/adoption agency. It’s a HagueAccredited International Adoption Program and the adoption specialists are degreed,

licensed social workers and certified adoption assessors. Each is committed to delivering individualized support and counsel to address the needs of children, adoptive families and birth parents.

Bellefaire JCB’s services and support extend through every step of the adoption process and includes: • Pre-and post-adoption counseling • Facilitating adoptive placements • Counseling to birth parents • Home study for domestic and international adoptions

refresh.

I N S P I R AT I O N F O R W O M E N I N TO DAY ’ S B U S Y W O R L D

CAREER

WELLNESS STYLE & BEAUTY

HOME

FUN RELATIONSHIPS

A SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO

November 2020 - NortheastOhioParent.com

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refresh.

EDITOR’S NOTE

Hello, ladies, and welcome to refresh!

THE YEAR 2020 has been challenging, right? We’ve experienced a lot of ups and a lot of downs. But guess what? Through it all, we prevailed.

If there is any group who can turn a negative into a positive, it’s women! This year we were told we needed to live, work and teach from home due to coronavirus stay-athome orders. Of course we listened, but we also made sure to make it fun.

Leave it to us to create “quarantine chic” and make loungewear the new fashion trend.

TikTok is the teenager’s app, right? Not in 2020. We took that over real fast and even started a #MomsofTikTok viral hashtag.

We were told we weren’t allowed to get together at restaurants with our friends. No problem. We created Zoom Happy Hour. Grab a glass of your favorite wine and make sure you’re logged on at 8 p.m. to chat with your girls.

Women rule. We are strong, we are ingenious and we are so funny.

As moms, we’re balancing a lot. Let’s be honest, we are doing the hardest, albeit most rewarding, job in the world. But we need to remember it’s also important to take care of ourselves!

That’s why we’re excited to bring you refresh: a lifestyle magazine just for us. From fashion and food to home decor and fitness, we’re covering all the topics women love and need.

This month’s introductory edition is just a snippet, but it’s packed with information you can use. Read about the latest winter fashion trends, try out our tips for getting a better night’s rest, and keep up with the latest binge-worthy shows.

Remember, while it’s good to be independent women, it’s also important to have a tribe of ladies with us! Take it from someone who went to an all-girl high school and lived with 40 women in her sorority house at college — it really is true that when women support one another, incredible things happen!

So join us, will you? Take a load off your feet and let yourself be catered to for once.

Sit back, relax and refresh!

Jessica Dill refresh.

IN THIS ISSUE

33

What’s Trending

32 Family Living at Its Best 32 || refresh.

34

Comfy, Cozy Winter Wear

38

Make the Most of Your Sleep

refresh.

trending What’s

TRENDS

Our favorite finds in beauty, home, entertainment and more. By Shana O’Malley-Smith

BINGE-WORTHY:

FOR THE HOME:

Watch as organizing experts Clea and Joanna transform messy closets, overflowing pantries and garbage-collecting garages into beautiful and functional spaces for their celebrity clients. The Nashville-based BFFs work their magic by categorizing and storing similar things together, and editing (donating and tossing) things that aren’t used or needed anymore. The show will have you decluttering, rearranging and rainbow color coding every closet, drawer and shelf in your home. The inspiration is worth the binge.

NETFLIX

Taking inspiration from “The Home Edit,” we’re obsessed with the idea of see-through storage containers featured in the show. Organizing gurus Clea and Joanna highly recommend clear containers to help keep track of your home inventory. Here are a few items on our wish list.

GET ORGANIZED WITH “THE HOME EDIT”

IDESIGN LINUS DIVIDED TURNTABLE CLEAR – 11-inch $24.99 or 9-inch $17.99 containerstore.com CHEF’S PATH 14-PIECE AIRTIGHT STORAGE CONTAINER SET - $44.97 amazon.com

SUBSCRIBE:

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There’s a subscription for everything nowadays and this one is pretty genius. Give the photos on your phone a permanent home with monthly mini Chatbooks. Easily upload 30 of your favorite photos of the month onto the Chatbooks app, and they’ll take care of the rest! Each month you’ll receive a 5-inch by 5-inch photobook of all your favorite snaps in the mail. They also make great gifts for grandparents! $5 a month.

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SAMLA 12-GALLON BOX – $5.99 ikea.com

PLANNING FOR THE HOLIDAYS: GIVE GIFTED

BEAUTY BUY:

OLAY WRINKLE CORRECTION SERUM WITH VITAMIN B3 + PEPTIDES

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We love a good drug store beauty find, and this affordable Olay serum is getting all the top reviews. Treat your skin to this ultra-concentrated serum that has the power to renew a million skin cells 10 layers deep. Penetrate your skin’s surface and treat wrinkles at the source with a serum that’s free from parabens, phthalates, mineral oil and synthetic dyes. $28.99.

OLAY.COM

COVID-19 hit small businesses especially hard this year, making it more important than ever to shop locally this holiday season. Take the stress out of gift giving and support local by letting the pros of Give Gifted help! This Cleveland-based company will hand pick custom gifts from Ohio vendors like food and beverage makers, clothing companies, photographers, artists and more. We love that they work with local small businesses to provide unique, personalized gifts for everyone on your list.

GIVEGIFTED.COM

WORTH THE READ:

“THE GOOD FIGHT: WANTING TO LEAVE, CHOOSING TO STAY, AND THE POWERFUL PRACTICE FOR LOVING FAITHFULLY” BY JANNA KRAMER AND MICHAEL CAUSSIN

Country music singer, actress and “Dancing with the Stars” alum Janna Kramer and her husband, former NFL player Michael Caussin, provide an honest account of the ups and downs of their five-year marriage. The 36-yearold mother of two has been outspoken about her marriage struggles, including career jealousy, raising small children and dealing with infidelity. In a time where everything (including your marriage) is supposed to look Instagram perfect, Kramer and Caussin provide a raw and relatable look at their relationship struggles and successes. Their book provides helpful tips they learned from working through their own personal issues, as well as advice from their marriage therapist.

NOVEMBER 2020 - NORTHEASTOHIOPARENT.COM November 2020 - NortheastOhioParent.com

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FA S H I O N

COMFY, COZY

Winter Wear Women want comfortable, chic fashion as we head into the chilly season.

I

By Jessica Dill

t’s time to say goodbye to what many would call the most fashionable season, fall. Winter is just around the corner, and while that does mean more layers, it doesn’t mean we can’t make them look fabulous.

To say the year 2020 has been interesting would be an understatement. The pandemic changed everything for us, including fashion.

To find out what’s trending this year we spoke with two fashionable Northeast Ohio women, Nicole Marcellino and Isabel Pritchett.

If you recognize the name Nicole Marcellino, you may be a big Cleveland Cavaliers fan. Marcellino has been the Cavs in-arena announcer for the past 15 seasons. She’s also the founder and owner of Bleu Chic Boutique in Strongsville.

“Bleu Chic Boutique is a women’s clothing and accessories boutique that carries adorable and affordable clothing for the always-on-the-go woman with a fierce and fabulous sense of style,” Marcellino says.

Sanity is a boutique in Chagrin Falls owned by Isabel Pritchett.

“From comfy to cute to classy, we have the favorite go-tos for every closet,” Pritchett says.

Both Marcellino and Pritchett say the biggest trend is now comfort.

Marcellino says women are choosing to invest in pieces that are casual and versatile. Ditch the high heels and grab the sneakers.

“Comfy joggers, a kick-butt pair of faux leather leggings, cozy pullovers and cardigans,” Marcellino says. “These are all items that with the simple swap of a tee for a blouse, jeans for joggers, or high boots for slippers, you can mix and match to get you from carpool to your Zoom meeting to date night.”

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FA S H I O N

PHOTOS COURTESY OF BLEU CHIC BOUTIQUE

Bleu Chic Boutique in Strongsville carries the latest in 2020 winter fashion, focusing on transitional pieces to carry you from playtime to a work meeting to a date night, and everywhere in between. Owner Nicole Marcellino models a few of these pieces, like a great blazer.

Pritchett agrees, saying winter fashion is all about the “comfy cozy.”

“We’re seeing tons of lounge wear in different styles,” she says. “From leopard print to tie dye and beyond, lots of matching sets that you can mix and match with jeans and leggings and basic tops.”

Seasonal Prints

While tie dye has been a huge trend for women this year, there are a few other colors and prints to look out for when you’re shopping.

Marcellino says deep magenta is the hot color right now.

“We have seen this pop up in the fall, and this rich color will continue to make its presence throughout the rest of the year,” she says. “Paired with cream and with hints of silver or gold, it will really stand out this holiday season.”

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Another popular pattern is buffalo plaid.

“Buffalo plaid has been popular the last few years, and we’ll continue to see a lot of that, especially in the accessories world,” Marcellino says. “Think mittens, beanies, scarves, tops and blankets.”

Speaking of accessories, Pritchett says versatility is key when you accessorize.

“Pick pieces that you can wear several ways and with several different items in your closet,” she says.

For example, a brim hat. “It’s super chic and takes any outfit you’re wearing up a notch,” Pritchett says. “We carry a beautiful hat line, ASN, that was created by two sisters and a brother. These hats are handmade and timeless.”

Marcellino says it’s always a good idea to choose accessories and clothing that you can bring with you year to year. Her ex-

amples are high quality denim, an amazing pair of leggings and a great everyday purse or backpack.

“These are a few items that will be slightly higher priced, but when made well and properly taken care of, will last you several years,” Marcellino says. “Be willing to invest in these great pieces, but only if you love them.”

Marcellino also advises women to start their winter shopping by purchasing a few staple pieces, such as a great pair of jeans, leggings, boots and a well-fitted blazer.

You’ll feel better about spending the money on these items since they easily transition into the next season.

Invest in Layers

Alright, let’s talk about layers. We do live in Cleveland, where one hour it’s 30 degrees and the next it’s 60 degrees.

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FA S H I O N

PHOTOS COURTESY OF SANITY

Sanity owner Isabel Pritchett says loungewear is in. She also recommends picking pieces with lots of versatility to add to your closet.

“Invest in a great new cardigan or two and something a little more out of the box, like a puffer vest,” Marcellino says. “Then, try pairing with a pocket tee, long sleeve top or graphic tee you already own. It’s a great way to get additional use out of items already in your closet and when paired with something new, brings it back to life.”

Of course we’re not all fashionistas, so that’s why Marcellino and Pritchett say they’re always available to help us.

“Fashion isn’t one size fits all and not every trend is going to work on every person,” Marcellino says. “Find the things you love and make them work for you.”

You can see more of the fashion Marcellino and Pritchett as they both have active social media accounts where they show off the latest styles. Check out their Instagram accounts, @bleuchicboutique and @sanitystyle.

Jessica Dill is an award-winning TV news anchor and reporter turned blogger at jessicalynndill. com. She is taking a quick break from television to be home with her husband, Michael, and their baby, Vivian. She writes about everything, including family, food, travel, fashion, motherhood and, of course, baby Vivian. Jessica grew up on the West Side of Cleveland while her husband grew up on the East Side, so the pair loves to spend time all over Northeast Ohio.

Coming 4x in 2021!

February May August November

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WELLNESS

Make the Most of Your

SLEEP How to wake up feeling rested and refreshed

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By Jamie Winebrenner

P

arents sacrifice their sleep to late night feedings, monsters under the bed, work deadlines or our own to-do lists after bedtime.

Add in the stresses and responsibilities of the global pandemic — homeschooling, changes in routine and more — and a restful night’s sleep may seem like something only in your (limited) dreams.

If you’ve found yourself lying awake once you finally get to bed, you’re not alone. According to a study published by the Journal of Sleep Research, 11 percent of mothers reported insomnia in the one to two months leading up to the pandemic.

That number has more than doubled, reaching a reported 23 percent, in the months during the COVID-19 pandemic. Another 80 percent of women also reported mid or

high levels of anxiety at the same time.

Sleep is a critical part of caring for our mental health and it’s an integral part of self-care. So how can we get the most from our sleep when it seems that rest has fallen off our priority lists?

Whether you get four or eight hours each night, here are a few tips to wake up feeling rested and refreshed.

Stop the scroll early. Speaking of screen time, many studies link eye strain and the decreased ability to sleep to scrolling social media. Remove the temptation by charging your phone away from your bed, or at least out of reach. This move has an added benefit if you use your phone as an alarm clock. You’ll have to get out of bed to turn it off, and you’re less likely to snooze through your morning.

Make a routine for yourself. If you’ve ever had a newborn, you might have been given the advice to create a bedtime routine.

Maybe that included doing a bath, a story, snuggles and a lullaby in that order every night to signal the end of the day and the start of bedtime. Try doing the same thing for yourself. Whatever your wind-down routine entails, try doing it in the same order, around the same time, every night.

Consider incorporating essential oils like lavender, sandalwood or vanilla into your bedtime routine to ease any anxious feelings and signal your brain that the shutdown is coming. Instead of leaving on the TV, listen to a relaxing playlist while you pick up toys or clean up the kitchen.

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WELLNESS

Easy Restorative Yoga Poses People of all ages all over the world practice yoga to increase feelings of relaxation and rebalance the nervous system. Try these three easy restorative poses for enhanced sleep.

Legs Up The Wall (Viparita Karani)

This one is just like it sounds. Lie on the floor, with your tailbone close to the wall and your legs extended up toward the ceiling. Rest your arms at your sides, or overhead, and close your eyes for five to 10 minutes. By elevating your legs, you can increase your circulation and decrease any fluid buildup that may have occurred throughout the day. You also may feel release in lower back tension and a gentle stretch in your hamstrings. If your hamstrings are tight, scoot yourself away from the wall a few inches.

Child’s Pose (Balasana)

Take a restorative approach to this classic yoga pose by incorporating a pillow or two. Sit with your knees wide, toes touching, and rest your upper body on the pillow. This pose is a great choice if you’re experiencing tension in your hips or lower back.

You might also feel opening in your shoulders. Take long inhales and exhales to calm your mind.

Corpse Pose (Savasana)

Lie on your back, legs extended out long and arms resting at your sides. Feel yourself being fully grounded and supported.

Close your eyes and try to calm your thoughts. This is a great pose to practice meditation, or clearing your thoughts in favor of an emotionally calm state. Don’t worry if meditation doesn’t come easy to you, it can take months or even years of practice.

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Earn your advanced degree in one of our flexible programs designed for working adults or take courses for enrichment, lifelong learning and/or certificates. Learn more at ursuline.edu.

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WELLNESS

Brain dump. Write down the thoughts floating around in your head prior to starting your bedtime routine. That could be to-dos, things you want to remember, ideas you have, or a reminder for someone in your family about tomorrow’s schedule. Get these things out of your mind and onto paper, so they’re not crossing your thoughts as you lay in bed trying to sleep.

Move your body. Even if you exercise during the day, try some gentle stretches or yoga poses (see sidebar on page 40) in the 10-15 minutes before you crawl into bed. Not only is this great for your muscles and physical health, but it also can help calm your nervous system.

Not everyone will experience the same benefits from the same routine, and trial and error is important in figuring out what will work for you. Give yourself a week or two to test different routines until you find the steps that work best for you, and look forward to getting a good night’s rest.

Jamie Winebrenner is a 200-hour registered yoga teacher and teaches in Medina and Wadsworth. She also is trained in reiki, and when she is not teaching, she works as a content marketing and graphic design consultant. She resides in Medina with her husband and two young children.

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Looking for the perfect way to Create Joy this holiday season?

Look no further than Legacy Village­— where you can take a photo with our life-sized JOY sign on stage — using your own body to create the “Y” in Joy! The Joy sign is the ideal backdrop for anything from holiday cards to a festive social media post — and who knows — if you tag @legacyvillage in your social media post- you might just win a Legacy Village gift card! The Joy sign is located on the stage between Bar Louie and California Pizza Kitchen. Shop. Eat. Play.

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Visit Legacy-Village.com for details on holiday shopping, gift card promotions, curbside pickup, virtual shopping, gift card contesting and everything else happening at Legacy Village this holiday season!

NOVEMBER 2020- -NortheastOhioParent.com NORTHEASTOHIOPARENT.COM November 2020

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42 | Family Living at Its Best

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November 2020 - NortheastOhioParent.com

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S C HO L A R

TE SHIP CON

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N F OR NOW OP E E RS D 6 -12 GR A

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44 | Family Living at Its Best

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NOVEMBER CAlenDAR Find more events at NortheastOhioParent.com

Reach for the Stars

Pick your DAY MONDAYS

Mental Health Mondays. We want to make sure you’re feeling OK (and it’s OK not to feel OK right now). Lisa Goodwin from LCADA will help you through anything you have going on. 3-4 p.m. Avon Lake Public Library, 32649 Electric Blvd., 440-933-8128, alpl.org Family Storytime. Join the library staff for books, rhymes, songs and fingerplays online. All children and their caregivers are welcome.

10:30-11 a.m. Medina County District Library, mcdl.info

11/7

Astrotots: International Space Station. Come discover fun facts about the gigantic, amazing spaceship that’s been traveling round and round above us for a long time. 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Observatory Park, 10610 Clay St., Montville Township, 440-279-0820, geaugaparkdistrict.org

11/13

Lunar Look-See. Come investigate the moon and all of its craters. Feel free to bring a comfortable chair, a telescope and your binoculars from home. 7-9 p.m. Girdled Road Reservation - South, 12926 Radcliffe Road, Concord Township, lakemetroparks.com

ONGOING

Space Adventures at Schuele Planetarium. Enjoy a personalized planetarium program based on your family’s interests.

Choose between an extended Twinkle Tots show, a Stellar Stars show featuring the planet of your choice or a Night Sky presentation. Lake Erie Nature & Science Center, 28728 Wolf Road, Bay Village, 440-8712900, lensc.org

*Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, these events are subject to change. Please check with venues before attending an event to ensure times and availability are valid and to understand health guidelines. Please follow state guidelines, including wearing face coverings, maintaining 6 feet apart from others and washing hands. Please visit northeastohioparent.com for more upcoming events.

MONDAYS, WEDNESDAYS & FRIDAYS

Busy Bees Art Club for Kids. Enroll your young artist in one, two or three sessions per week. Children must be between the ages of 5-14 (your child must be enrolled in kindergarten and know how to cut with scissors). 3-6 p.m. Busy Bees Pottery & Arts Studio, 7860 Mentor Ave., #554B, Mentor, mentor.busybeesart.com

MONDAYTHURSDAY

Young Scholars Academy.

Cleveland’s youngest students (ages 3 to 6) and their families now have their own place to learn, grow and get ready for kindergarten with fun, online activities each week. Mondays at 10 a.m., Tuesdays at 6 p.m., Wednesdays at 11 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., and Thursdays at 4:30 p.m. Cleveland Public Library, cpl.org

TUESDAYS

Preschool Clay. Little hands, big projects! Young children explore clay as they create seasonal-themed items. 4:30-5:15 p.m.

The Fine Arts Association, 38660 Mentor Ave., Willoughby, 440-951-7500, fineartsassociation.org Virtual Girls Who Code Club.

Use computer science to solve a problem you care about and learn from facilitators with experience in the field of computer science. Grades 6-12. 6 p.m.

Lakewood Public Library, lakewoodpubliclibrary.org

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November CALENDAR

TUESDAYS

Virtual Artpocalypse. Mr. Josh from the Headlands Branch is sharing a different craft that kids or adults can make with their family every Tuesday at noon. Mentor Public Library, mentorpl.libcal.com/ event/7041579

TUESDAYS & THURSDAYS

Express Yourself Youth Art Workshops. Let your voice be heard and tell your story through art. These virtual workshops are for you, whether you’re a beginner or ready to take your art to the next level.

4:15-5:15 p.m. Cleveland Public Library, cpl.org

WEDNESDAYS

Baby Zoom Storytime. Entertaining, age-appropriate stories and activities that encourage literacy development and help your child prepare to be a skilled reader. 10-10:30 a.m. Willoughby-Eastlake Public Library, we247.org

THURSDAYS

Kinderdance. Come join Mr. Moodie online where he introduces dancers to the basics of ballet and tap with a focus on rhythm, basic movement, music, listening skills and expression.

4:30-5:15 p.m. Fairmount Center for the Arts, 8400 Fairmount Road, Novelty,fairmountcenter.org

FRIDAYS

Friday Fun Day. Join the after-school Zoom hangout where you will chat, play music, play Kahoot trivia and create crafts. For students in grades 4-6. 4-5 p.m. Rocky River Public Library, rrpl.org Simcha Shabbat for Preschoolers.

Simcha means joy, and joy fills the room at this Shabbat experience for preschoolers and their families. Following a brief service, kids can enjoy an optional light meal and a craft.

First Friday of each month at 6 p.m.

Anshe Chesed Fairmount Temple, 23737 Fairmount Blvd., Beachwood, 216-464-1330, fairmounttemple.org Stories & STEAM. Stories and science, technology, engineering, art and math for grades K-2 on the library’s Facebook page and YouTube channel. 4-5:15 p.m. Morley Library, morleylibrary.org Family Fridays with RBP. Join violinist Rachel Barton Pine for 20-minute free weekly shows streamed live on Facebook and YouTube. 12:30 p.m. facebook.com/RBPviolinist. youtube. com/user/RachelBartonPine Got Science? Students in grades 1 and 2 are invited to learn about Newton’s Law of Motion. Kits will be available beginning Nov. 6. Westlake Porter Public Library, 27333 Center Ridge Road, 440-871-2600, westlakelibrary.org

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11/10

TURKEY DAY FUN

Thankful for Turkeys. Gobble!

Gobble! It’s turkey season! Connect with Stark Parks to talk some turkey via Zoom. 6-6:30 p.m., reservations. starkparks.com/program/2408

11/16-21

Grab & Go Turkey Craft. Pick up supplies while they last. 1 p.m. Domonkas Branch Library, 4125 E. Lake Road, Sheffield Lake, 440-949-7410, lorainpubliclibrary.org

11/17-21

Monthly Makers: Hand Turkeys.

Take the opportunity this fall to get creative and showcase your artistic endeavors along the trail. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Wolf Creek Environmental Center, 6100 Ridge Road, Sharon Center, medinacountyparks.com

11/21

Super Science Saturday: Microbes and the Mayflower. With Thanksgiving approaching, what better time to study the journey of the Mayflower than now? You will take a look at the little creatures that might have helped them and the ones that might have harmed them.

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

11/24

An Attitude of Gratitude. Chalk the Lee Road Library walk and tell us what you are grateful for this year.

You can draw a picture or write a poem or a word. 2345 Lee Road, Cleveland Heights, 216-932-3600, heightslibrary.org

SATURDAYS

Young Entrepreneurs Marketplace. Real-world selling opportunities for K-12 students where they gain important skills and knowledge about product development, customer interaction, pricing and pitching.

11 a.m.-3 p.m. Cafe O’Play, 911 Graham Road, Stow, cafeoplay.com Kids Cafe Grab and Go Meal.

Youth ages 0-18 or their adults can pick up a free, nutritious meal courtesy of the Greater Cleveland Food Bank. 1:30-2:30 p.m. Lee Road Branch Library, 2345 Lee Road, Cleveland Heights, 216-932-3600, heightslibrary.org

ongoing

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: Hiker’s Choice. Call it hiking, walking, strolling, rambling, wandering or trekking, it’s good for body, mind and spirit — maybe now more than ever.

Get out and explore the Medina County parks through this self-guided hiking program.

First-year hikers earn a backpack; veteran hikers earn a pin. medinacountyparks.com

day - by - day 11/7

Cosmic Kids. Constellations, planets, light show and music.10-11 a.m. & 11 a.m.noon. McKinley Museum, 800 McKinley Monument Drive NW, Canton, 330-455-7043, mckinleymuseum.org

11/8

Anxiety & Stress Reduction: Conflict & Communication.

Ages 11-15 learn to destress through art using drawing and collage to facilitate coping and communication skills. 5:30-6:45 p.m. Akron ArtWorks, 1684 Merriman Road, Akron, akronartworks.com

11/9-14

Kindergarten Readiness Home Activity Series. Prepare your 4- or 5-year-old child for kindergarten success by practicing the necessary skills at home. Every month, stories, songs and tips will be posted on smfpl.org/kindergarten, and activity kits will be available to pick up. Stow-Munroe Falls Public Library, 3512 Darrow Road, 330-688-3295, smfpl.org

11/10

Family Trivia Night. Tuesday trivia fun for all ages. Join us online for museum-themed trivia and a chance to win fun prizes. 6:30 p.m. Cleveland Museum of Natural History, 1 Wade Oval Drive, Cleveland, cmnh.org

11/11

Nature Masks. Hike through the woods to gather your own pieces of nature to create a mask of your liking. 2-3 p.m. and 3:30-4:30 p.m. Environmental Learning Center, 7250 Alexander Road, Concord Township, lakemetroparks.com

11/12

Read to a Dog. Sochi is a certified therapy dog who loves to listen to stories. Register for a 15-minute time slot and read to Sochi via Zoom. 4:15 and 5:15 p.m. Shaker Library, shakerlibrary.org

11/14

Caturday. Meet adoptable cats and kittens. 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

North Canton Public Library, 185 N. Main St., 330-499-4712, ncantonlibrary.com Realm of the Reptile LIVE. Bring the joy of reptiles to your screen. Learn about various reptiles during this LIVE online presentation. 11 a.m.-noon.

Reed Memorial Library, reedlibrary.org

11/17

Hogwarts Digital Escape Room, Tween and Teens. Have you ever wanted to join Harry and friends on an adventure in the wizarding world? Join online and travel through the Hogwarts Digital Escape Room.

3-4 p.m. geaugalibrary.libcal. com/event/7157386 - CONTINUED ON PAGE 51 -

Thanksgiving Fun. Gobble, gobble, gobble! Join this virtual program full of stories, games and crafts all about Thanksgiving. 6:30 p.m. Wadsworth Public Library, wadsworthlibrary.com Turkey Trot. The Turkey Trot has been a hallmark event in Cleveland since 1982 and a Thanksgiving morning tradition for the entire family. 8:45 a.m. Public Hall, 500 Lakeside Ave., Cleveland, turkeytrotcleveland.com

11/27

Hike Your Turkey Off. With Thanksgiving leaving us feeling a bit overstuffed, it’s time to hike that turkey off with a steady-paced, calorie-burning eight-mile hike. 9 a.m.-noon. The West Woods, 9465 Kinsman Road, Russell, 440-286-9516, geaugaparkdistrict.org

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* EARLY HOLIDAY EVENTS * ONGOING

Leave the World Behind and Visit Castle Noel. Santa will be on-site with the magic of Mark Klaus. Featuring personal, interactive moments with Santa to lift your heart. It’s all captured live.

Alien Vacation Mini Golf is open.

New for 2020, The Polar Bear Club, an immersive environment for adults. Castle Noel, 260 S. Court St., Medina, castlenoel.com

11/5-8

Marketplace Holiday Gala. Let the festivities begin as Gervasi Vineyard kicks off the holiday season at the Marketplace’s annual Holiday Gala. Gervasi Vineyard, 1700 55th St. NE, Canton, 330-497-1000, gervasivineyard.com

11/19-12/27

Wild Winter Lights. Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is again transforming into a winter wonderland this holiday season. Experience

this year’s all-new lighting display, with more than one million individual lights & unique twists on holiday traditions. Thursdays-Sundays. 5:30-9:30 p.m.

3900 Wildlife Way, 216-635-3391, futureforwildlife.org

11/20-21

Virtual Holiday Tree Festival.

Kick off the holiday season at this festival featuring more than 200 decorated trees, 85,000 strings of lights and countless other holiday creations. htfmary@yahoo.com, akronchildrens.org/treefestival

11/20-22

Medina Candlelight Walk. Shops and restaurants of the nine-block Medina historic district will be open later into the evening to welcome local and visiting guests from around the region. Medina Public Square, mainstreetmedina.com

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11/20-12/26

Holiday Nights. Discover dazzling festive displays and awaken your senses as you wander through the enchanted gardens. Get creative with a fun make-andtake craft in Santa’s workshop and spread Christmas joy at the elf dance party. Friday and Saturdays 5-9 p.m. Beech Creek Botanical Garden and Nature Preserve, 11929 Beech St. NE, Alliance, beechcreekgardens.org

11/22-2/15

Winter Wonderland. Both the inside and outside mall will be decorated with beautiful artwork made by Monarch’s students using inspiration from winter animals and imagery. Eton Chagrin Blvd., 28601 Chagrin Blvd., Woodmere, etonchagrinblvd.com

11/23-12/22

Tween Take and Make: Holiday Decorations. Craft instructions will go live with a link to the YouTube video when it’s time to pick up the supplies. Avon Lake Public Library, 32649 Electric Blvd., 440933-8128, alpl.org

11/27-12/27

Holiday Lights Cruise-Thru.

Drive-thru family event. Please bring one nonperishable food item to donate to the Second Harvest Food Bank. 5:30-9:30 p.m.

Carlisle Reservation: Equestrian Center, 13630 Diagonal Road, LaGrange, metroparks.cc

11/27-12/30

Wild Lights. Come enjoy the wildest lighting display this holiday season. Nearly the entire zoo is decorated and several animals will be out. 5-9 p.m. Akron Zoo, 505 Euclid Ave., Akron, 330-3752550, akronzoo.org

Deck the Hall. Come see the estate illuminated inside and out with over one million lights with the Manor House interiors decorated to reflect the theme of “We Wish You a Merry Christmas.” Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, 714 N. Portage Path, Akron, 330-863-5533, stanhywet.org

12/1-15

The Magical Santa Experience.

Personalized video invitation from Santa’s head elf, a private Zoom conversation with Santa, plus an old fashioned letter mailed to your kids from St. Nick. Register by 11/2.

Magical Theatre Co., 565 W. Tuscarawas Ave., Barberton, 330-8483708, magicaltheatre.org

12/1-22

Country Lights Drive-Thru.

Experience some new and some familiar lighting displays throughout the Farmpark as you enjoy the festivities from the warmth of your own vehicles. 5-9 p.m. Lake Metroparks Farmpark, 8800 Euclid Chardon Road, Kirtland, 440-2562122, lakemetroparks.com

12/2, 6, 19, 13 & 16

Santa Nights. Visit with Santa Claus from the comfort of your car at this drive-thru holiday event.

6:30-8:30 p.m. Lakeview Park, 1800 West Erie Ave., Lorain, metroparks.cc

12/4

Holiday Card Making. Create homemade nature-themed holiday cards to spread some cheer this season. 6:30-8 p.m.

F. A. Seiberling Nature Realm, 1828 Smith Road, Akron, 330-865-8065, summitmetroparks.org

12/4, 11, 12 & 18

Miller Woods Holiday Express.

Grab your ticket for a special ride on the Little Green Choo through the woods to Santa’s workshop.

Enjoy the lighted displays, sounds of the season and possibly a glimpse of the man in red. 6:308:30 p.m. Miller Nature Preserve, 2739 Center Road, Avon, loraincountymetroparks.com

12/5

Light Up Lakewood. Glittering lights illuminate our city, fireworks sparkle overhead and an aura of merriment puts smiles on faces.

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and you’re invited to partake in the festive cheer. 4-8 p.m. 14701 Detroit Ave., Lakewood, lakewoodalive.com

Old-Fashioned Christmas. Meet Santa and recapture the simple joys of the holiday season with live music throughout the store, delicious Christmas treats, simple crafts to make your season bright and wonderful holiday shopping.

10 a.m.-2 p.m. Lehman’s, 4779 Kidron Road, Dalton, lehmans.com

12/6

Holiday CircleFest. A free annual Circle-wide celebration with activities, entertainment and a procession led by community lantern artists, illuminated dancers and giant puppets. 1-7 p.m. Wade Oval, 10820 East Blvd., Cleveland, universitycircle.org

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ONGOING EXHIBITS AKRON ART MUSEUM

THROUGH 2/21/21 Akron Art Mail. A project aimed to put art and writing into people’s hands. The project has three main components: commissioned art cards offered free for patrons; a community exhibition of art cards; and an e-book catalog of the project. 1 S. High St., 330-376-9185, akronartmuseum.org

CLEVELAND BOTANICAL GARDEN

ONGOING Hershey Children’s Garden.

Activate the young explorers within your children as they search for frogs and fish, observe a honeybee hive or play within an imaginative treehouse at The Hershey Children’s Garden. As your child discovers plant and animal life around them, he or she also can learn why caring for the environment is vital for everyone. 11030 East Blvd., 216721-1600, cbgarden.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

THE CLEVELAND MUSEUM OF ART

THROUGH 11/29 PROOF: Photography in the Era of the Contact Sheet. The photographer first saw positive images on the contact sheet. Digital technology has put an end to that era. The photographer now sees the image instantly, and systems of storage, retrieval and editing have become increasingly sophisticated. 11150 East Blvd., clevelandart.org

CLEVELAND PUBLIC LIBRARY

ONGOING Cleveland 20/20: A Photographic Exploration. In honor of Cleveland Public Library’s 150th anniversary year, library staff, community partners, patrons and Cleveland residents alike are stepping up to help document Cleveland. A diverse range of local and teen photographers snapped photos throughout the city to ensure Cleveland was documented like never before. 325 Superior Ave., cpl.org

CLEVELAND MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY

ONGOING Discover a new “Lucy.” The new Human Origins Gallery explores the evolution of various early human ancestor species and outlines the physical changes through time leading to modern humans. The exhibition is organized into seven thematic stages based on milestones. 1 Wade Oval Drive, cmnh.org

GREAT LAKES SCIENCE CENTER

THROUGH 1/3/2021 “Body Worlds Rx.” Through the process of Plastination, a complex preservation method that removes the fluids from the body and replaces them with reactive resins and elastomers, the specimens in this special exhibition offer guests the unique opportunity to be inspired and amazed by the inner workings of the human body. 601 Erieside Ave., Cleveland, 216-6942000, greatscience.com

GREATER CLEVELAND AQUARIUM

ONGOING Shark Gallery & Seatube. Big sharks with lots of teeth. What else do you need to know? With 230,000 gallons of water, this impressive space features three species of sharks, stingrays, eels and many other species of fish. Walk through the 175-foot underwater seatube and you’ll feel like you are scuba diving without all the heavy equipment. 2000 Sycamore St., Cleveland, 216-862-8803, greaterclevelandaquarium.com

HOLDEN ARBORETUM

ONGOING Patrick Dougherty’s “Stickwork.”

Twisting mazes, towering castles and hedges full of faces that have been featured in more than 300 locations around the world, including Scotland, Japan and Brussels, and all over the U.S. 9500 Sperry Road, Kirtland, 440-946-4400, holdenarb.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

MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART

THROUGH 8/29/21 Martin Creed: Work No. 3398 EVERYTHING IS GOING TO BE ALRIGHT. One of his most iconic works, variations of the site-responsive neon continue to appear in different sizes and colors throughout the world.

11400 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, mocacleveland.org

ROCK & ROLL HALL OF FAME

ONGOING Class of 2020 Inductees. Explore artifacts, instruments and a collaborative installation featuring items from each of the 2020 inductees, including Doobie Brothers, Depeche Mode, Whitney Houston, Nine Inch Nails, The Notorious B.I.G. and more.

1100 Rock and Roll Blvd., Cleveland, 216-781-7625, rockhall.com

STAN HYWET HALL & GARDENS

ONGOING “The Winds of Change.” Both dynamic and nuanced, the theme will be captured in a colorful garden exhibit of the same name. Made up of whimsical wind catchers and designed by an all-female group of local artists. 714 N. Portage Path, Akron, 330-836-5533, stanhywet.org

Experience the zoo aglow with dazzling lights, lights colorful lighted animal displays and lights dancing to cheerful holiday music. See amazing animals as you stroll through the zoo enjoying tasty holiday treats & beverages. A trip to Akron Zoo’s Wild Lights is sure to put you in the holiday spirit!

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November CALENDAR - CONTINUED FROM PAGE 47 -

11/17

Evening Chat for Grandparents Zoom Webinar. The Autism Society of Greater Akron is excited to provide a time for grandparents to network and talk about their children and grandchildren who are living with a disability. 7 p.m. autismakron.org/index.php/support/grandparents-nov-2020

11/19

Where the Wild Things Are. See behind the scenes of this month’s highlighted patients and releases from Stark Parks Wildlife Conservation Center online. 6-6:30 p.m. reservations.starkparks.com/ program/2419

11/21

International Games Day: Mario Kart Mayhem. It’s time to start your engines for a Mario Kart Tournament. Young racers are welcome to sign up and claim their place in the bracket. Try your hand on the Switch or Wii U systems, and bring along your DS if you’d like. Noon-1:30 p.m. Mentor Public Library, 8215 Mentor Ave., 440-255-8811, mentorpl.org

Start Stopping the Hate: Online Workshop. Come learn, discuss and write about acts of injustice, racism, bigotry or discrimination as you have witnessed or experienced them. Explore responses to these problems and write an essay to enter in the Stop the Hate essay contest. 6-7:30 p.m. Maltz Museum of Jewish Heritage, 2929 Richmond Road, Beachwood, 216593-0575, maltzmuseum.org

11/23

Teen Biology Challenge: Lungs.

Use your kit to make a lung model via Facebook Live. 6-7 p.m. Reed Memorial Library, reedlibrary.org

11/30

Volunteer Youth Crew. Students in grades 4-6 help with projects to benefit the library. Promote reading through creating book reviews, library displays and ornaments for the children’s department holiday tree. 4-5 p.m. Rocky River Public Library, 1600 Hampton Road, 440-333-7610, rrpl.org

11/13

✳

Observe World Kindness Day. Help us make the world a better place by promoting acts of good kindness through stories, songs, crafts and activities that can be shared with others in the community during this Zoom event. 11-11:45 a.m. Rocky River Public Library, rrpl.org

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Trim Tree the

How to start a new tradition of cutting down your own Christmas tree

By Amy Brown

S

ure, an artificial spruce might be a clean, low-maintenance route for your home’s holiday focal point. But where’s the fun in that?

Although live holiday trees require more care and attention, they also offer more vivid childhood memories, like the scent of fresh pine wafting through the house, or the character of imperfect boughs holding cherished, handmade ornaments.

This year, for the ultimate DIY in holiday décor, choose to chop your own from one of Northeast Ohio’s local tree farms. This safe, socially distanced activity supports our local farmers, as well as our environment — and you don’t need to be a full-blown lumberjack to do it.

For families looking to start a fresh, new holiday tradition, consider the real deal.

WHAT TO BRING

Saw. While many tree farms provide you with a hand saw, confirm this is the case with the farm before leaving the house to avoid pulling a Clark Griswold.

Tape measure. Measure the height and width of the tree before making your first cut to ensure it will appropriately fit in your house — and the vehicle that will be hauling it home.

Leather work gloves. To escape sap-soaked palms, swap out your warm ski gloves or favorite wool mittens with work gloves or a pair you’re not attached to before handling the tree.

At least two adults. The average tree is 6-8 feet tall and can be tricky to wrangle on your own. Work together to be sure the experience is as safe and hassle-free as possible.

Tie-down straps. Don’t forget durable ropes or flexible cables to secure the tree for a safe transport home.

Blanket. This is a family event, after all, so get cozy. Bring a warm, waterproof throw on which the kids or anyone not actively chopping down the tree can relax.

52 | Family Living at Its Best

MEASURE TWICE, CUT ONCE

A tree’s size in its natural element may appear larger or smaller compared to where it will reside in your living room. First, measure the floor space and ceiling height of where your fresh-cut evergreen will stand, allowing some extra space for the tree stand and a tree topper, like a star or angel. Second, when the perfect tree catches your eye on the farm, measure its height and widest diameter beneath the bottom branches to be sure you’ll have a perfect fit.

SHAKE, BALE & HAUL

Once the tree is cut, the farm will use a tree shaker to remove any loose needles and debris. Staff can assist with trimming any rogue branches, provide a straight cut at the bottom (best for absorbing water and added stability in the tree stand), and bale or wrap the tree for convenient transport. You can either tie the tree to the top of the car or toss in the back of a pickup truck or large van.

START A TRADITION

This year has challenged us to find simple joys anywhere we can.

Choosing the family’s perfect tree should be no exception. Make it an event. Bundle up and take time to stroll the lanes, carefully comparing the short and plumps to the long and leans before settling on “the one.”

Bring hot chocolate, build a snowman, slow down and breathe in the crisp air. Hold each other a little tighter knowing, this year, you may have worked a little harder, but we’re all a little closer for it and it’s one we won’t soon forget.

An Indiana native, Amy Brown is a freelance writer and voice actor with a degree in Hospitality & Tourism Management from Purdue University. She has a background in travel PR and nonprofit marketing, loves all things outdoors, and lives in Northeast Ohio with her family.

CHRISTMAS TREE GUIDE 2020

CHECK OUT THESE FEATURED TREE FARMS Heritage Farms

330-657-2330 heritagefarms.com

6050 Riverview Road, Peninsula

Open Nov. 21-Dec. 24 (or until sold out); Friday, Saturday and Sunday, 9 a.m.-7 p.m. and Monday-Thursday, noon-7 p.m. Cut-yourown fields close at 5 p.m.

Medina Christmas Tree Farm

330-723-2106 medinatrees.com

Main Farm: 3301 Hamilton Road, Medina

Open at 9:30 a.m. on Nov. 27 and will be open daily through Dec. 21.

Butler Farm: Open weekends at 10 a.m. beginning Nov. 21.

Pioneer Trails Tree Farm

4222 Center Road, Poland 330-757-0884 pioneertrails treefarm.com

Open Nov. 22-Dec. 22, from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. on weekends and 11 a.m.6 p.m. during the week.

River Run Tree Farm

330-888-9005 riverruntreefarm.com 5620 Streeter Road, Mantua Fields and gift shop are open Nov. 27-Dec. 13, Friday-Sunday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Sugar Pines Farm

440-729-1019 sugarpinesfarm.com

9500 Mulberry Road, Chesterland Open daily beginning Nov. 27; weekends and Nov. 27 from 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; weekdays from noon-5:30 p.m.

Visit NortheastOhioParent.com for more holiday fun things to do with your family.

November 2020 - NortheastOhioParent.com

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MORE CHRISTMAS TREE FARMS Adolph Tree Farm

Howling Pines Tree Farm

950 Waterloo Road, Mogadore 330-603-4265 facebook.com/adolphtreefarm

10480 E. Washington St., Chagrin Falls, 216-410-6341 howlingpinestreefarm.com

Bender Christmas Tree Farm

Kall Christmas Tree Farm

3381 Sheffield Road, Jefferson 440-944-5240 bendertree.com

3605 Foskett Road, Medina 330-725-8870 kallxmastreefarm.com

Big Run Evergreens 635 Twp. Road 2724, Loudonville, 419-994-3600 bigrunevergreens.com

Kurtz Christmas Tree Farm

2350 Quarry Road, Wellington 440-328-9140 kurtzchristmastrees.com

Braden Christmas Tree Farm

5801 Knox School Road, Homeworth, 330-525-7103 facebook.com/bradentrees

Log Barn Farm

8711 Stanhope-Kelloggsville Road, Williamsfield 440-293-7330 logbarnfarm.com

Cowan Tree Farm

2754 Dawley Road, Ravenna 330-296-5752 cowantreefarm.com

Diversified Tree Farm 8546 Nichols Road, Windham 330-527-7409 facebook.com/ diversifiedtreefarm

Doc Miller’s Christmas Tree Farm 2666 German Church Road, Alliance, 717-706-5565 millerschristmastrees.com

Manners Christmas Tree Farm

780 Dodgeville Road, New Lyme 440-294-2444 facebook.com/ mannerschristmastreefarm

McKosky Tree Farm

14740 Leroy Center Road, Mentor 440-298-1412 facebook.com/ mckoskystreefarm

Flower Family Christmas Tree Farm 1236 Hudson Road, Kent 330-678-8967 flowertreefarm.com

Galehouse Tree Farms

11762 Coal Bank Road, Doylestown, 330-658-2480 galehousetreefarms.com

Greig Christmas Tree Farm 35900 Eddy Road, Willoughby Hills 440-487-7158

Moore’s Christmas Tree Farm 6767 Edison St., Hartville 330-877-6520 moorestreefarm.com

Mountain Creek Tree Farm

7185 Williams Road, Concord 440-354-8928 mountaincreektrees.com

North Corner Farm

13800 Butternut Road, Burton 440-785-3692 northcornerfarm.com

Pauley’s Tree Farm

721 Benedict Leavittsburg Road, Leavittsburg, 330-360-3794 pauleystreefarm.com

Pine Tree Barn & Farms

Pine Tree Original Farmstead: 4374 Shreve Road, Wooster Valley Road Tree Farm: 4485 Valley Road, Wooster 330-264-1014 pinetreebarn.com

Rauh Christmas Tree Farm

3001 N. River Road, Stow 330-678-7474 rauh-tree-farm.business.site

Rhodes Sisters Christmas Tree Farm 12020 Clay St., Huntsburg 440-636-5498 facebook.com/rhodessisters-christmas-treefarm-166931600072603

Sarna’s Christmas Tree Farm

1137 E. Jefferson St., Jefferson 440-576-3450 sarnastreefarm.com

Shawnee Trail Tree Farm

896 Terex Road, Hudson 330-486-7024 facebook.com/ shawneetrailtreefarm

Skylar Brook Farm 12853 Bair Road, Orrville 330-641-8877 skylarbrookfarm.com

Soubusta Farms

11380 Thwing Road, Chardon 440-289-1026 soubustafarms.com

Stone Garden Farm & Village

2891 Southern Road, Richfield 330-212-9934 stonegardenfarm.com

Storeyland Christmas Tree Farm 5148 State Rt. 7, Burghill 330-772-8733 storeyland.com

Sugargrove Tree Farm

1619 Township Road 1455, Ashland, 419-282-5151 sugargrovefarm.com

Swan Farm

11721 Tinkers Creek Road, Valley View, 216-524-2536 facebook.com/swanfarmohio

Timber Valley Christmas Tree Farm 4250 Bagdad Road, Medina 330-722-3832 timbervalley.biz

Twinsberry Tree Farm

8916 S. Jefferson Road, Shreve 330-567-3902 twinsberrytreefarm.com

Wilcox Tree Farm 17620 Diagonal Road, LaGrange, 440-355-4027 wilcoxtreefarm.com

Williams Tree Farm

1926 Battlesburg Road SW, East Sparta 330-484-5306 williamstreefarm.business.site

Wintergreen Tree Farm

3898 Winchell Road, Mantua 330-221-3835 wintergreentreefarmohio.com

For more holiday adventures and ideas in the region, visit NortheastOhioParent.com 54 | Family Living at Its Best

Northeast Ohio Parent

MARKETPLACE

TO PLACE YOUR AD HERE

Contact Samantha Olp 330-636-6127 or Sam@northeastohioparent.com

đ&#x;”?

Find spots for year-round family fun in our online directories.

Go to NortheastOhioParent.com for summer, fall and winter fun — and more!

November 2020 - NortheastOhioParent.com

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November 2020

Resources for Helping the Ones You Love

»»»

Transitioning to Long-Term Care RECOMMENDATIONS TO EASE YOUR LOVED ONE’S MOVE TO A LONG-TERM CARE FACILITY

By Jeannie Fleming-Gifford

Family Living Living at at Its Its Best Best 56 | Family

T

he journey of caregiving for a loved one can be complicated. It is even more complicated in the time of COVID-19. However much we want to believe that time and rehabilitation may cure our loved ones and help them return to normalcy, sometimes they do not. Sometimes, we must make the hard decision to transition a loved one to long-term care.

Long-term care is defined as a variety of services that help meet both the medical and personal needs of people with chronic illnesses or disabilities who cannot care for themselves for extended time periods. Long-term care facilities also are often referred to as nursing homes.

Following my mother’s stroke and months of rehabilitation a few years ago, I realized my mom’s medical care was too much for me to handle alone. Physically, I knew I could not manage her care because she now needed assistance to move from wheelchair to toilet or bed, and she also needed daily injections and multiple medications. Additionally, she lacked the ability to safely be by herself for any period of time. We opted to move her to a long-term care facility.

Selecting a long-term care facility can be time consuming. In the end, you

should identify the most clean, safe and home-like environment where dedicated professionals are passionate about caring for your loved one, both physically and emotionally.

TIPS TO EASE THE TRANSITION

The move to a long-term facility can be challenging. The reality is that sadness, fear and even confusion may be part of this change for a loved one. The COVID-19 pandemic may be amplifying these challenges and affecting how you interact with your loved ones and the protocols at health care facilities.

WHEN MAKING THE TRANSITION,

HERE ARE A FEW THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND:

• Communicate with the administrative and health care team to understand what the admissions and visitation procedures are during COVID-19. Though many of the policies are dictated by state and local governments, don’t be afraid to ask questions about how you can be with your loved one during the transition.

• Intense feelings from your loved one are normal and to be expected.

Be mindful of your own feelings and respectful of your loved one’s. Turn

»»»

Jeannie Fleming-Gifford has a master’s degree in family an specialization in child development and is the executive dir Arts. Her passions include outdoor adventures, volunteerin THE AUTHOR, JEANNIE to experts like social workers or medical FLEMING-GIFFORD, WITH dogs and writing. professionals for strategies that may be HER WITH MOTHER, CAROL, specific to your loved one’s needs. Use language that is empathetic and kind (“I understand…”).

• Focus on the positive. With every change, there are challenges, but there also are opportunities. Seek out the positives, such as the activities that are offered within the long-term care facility and amenities, such as access to the outdoors (i.e., optimal window viewing areas or safe garden spaces that residents can access).

ENJOYING SOME MUSIC TOGETHER IN THE COURTYARD OF A LONG-TERM CARE FACILITY .

• Help make it home. Where feasible, integrate a few items such as pictures, a blanket, a radio or CD player, or a door decoration that provide the comfort and familiarity of home.

• Help make connections. Your loved one may need your help meeting and interacting with others. Take the time to introduce him or her to both staff and residents. If you can’t personally help, be sure to ask the facility’s administration for assistance. Many facilities have activity or other health care personnel who are helpful and kind with these types of requests.

• Explore together as feasible. Walk (or or wheel) your loved one around the new facility. Take time to look at things like the calendar of events or activity bulletin boards, as well as where there may be opportunities for independent interactions (i.e., a fish tank, bird aviary or simply a community room where people gather).

Jeannie Fleming-Gifford has a master’s degree in family and consumer sciences with a specialization in child development and is the executive director at Fairmount Center for the Arts. Her passions include outdoor adventures, volunteering to raise potential autism service dogs and writing.

{

The author, Jeannie Fleming-Gifford, with her with mother, in the courtyard of a long-term care facility.

The transition may be challenging and

may take time. However, with kindness, effective communications and time, longterm care may provide the support that will be best for your loved one.

November 2020 - NortheastOhioParent.com

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#CLE MAMA

SARA CARNES • Facebook = Sara Carnes • Instagram = saracarnes4

Retrain your brain with the Glad Game

T

hanks to Disney+, my family is getting all the nostalgic feels from some of our favorite old movies.

My favorite that I just shared with my daughter is “Pollyanna.” Do you remember this one? Ahhh, I loved this movie so much growing up. It’s an oldie, but boy is it a goodie.

This statement may sound a little bold, but I’m gonna say it: I think it’s impossible to watch this movie and not feel encouraged. It’s just that good. Let me recap for you. The movie, based on the book “Pollyanna,” shares Pollyanna’s life after her missionary parents pass away and she is sent to live with her old, mean Aunt Polly.

It’s no doubt a big life change and hard-todeal-with situation, but the movie focuses on Pollyanna’s positivity even though she goes through rough times (like we all do!).

A special part of the movie comes when she shares the Glad Game with her aunt

58 | Family Living at Its Best

AFTER A HECTIC, BUSY WEEK, I’M GLAD TO HAVE “FAMILY TIME WITH MY DAUGHTER.“ —SARA CARNES

and the entire town, and it transforms everyone.

So, what’s the Glad Game? Well, it was a game her missionary father created.

Years before, the mission board sent him a letter asking what they could send to his little girl as a gift. Pollyanna really wanted a doll. When the package arrived just before Christmas, she was so excited to see her doll, but instead there was a pair of crutches inside. Talk about disappointment. Thinking quickly, her father made up the Glad Game. Any time something happens in life to bring you down, think of something you’re glad about. Pollyanna and her father decided they were glad they didn’t have to use the crutches. What a great perspective, right?

I know it’s not always easy to do this, but this mindset can be so wonderful for your kids — and for you. Just like Pollyanna saw what her dad did and

copied him, our kids do the same to us.

We’re always going to have frustrations and letdowns, but the Glad Game is a great way to share your thankfulness for all that we have instead. It helps make all those frustrations a little more tolerable.

Don’t get me wrong, a healthy dose of venting can be good for us all, but I think you might agree we all can take it too far sometimes. The Glad Game may sound a little crazy at first, but it is something small you can do to help retrain your brain from being a complainer to being more thankful.

I’ve been trying to catch myself more, because “more is caught than taught” when it comes to our kids, right?

I’m going to try and be more like Pollyanna this month and moving forward.

Try it with me. You’ve heard positivity is contagious, so pass it on! What are you glad about this month?

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60 | Family Living at Its Best