Northeast Ohio Parent Magazine - December 2019

BUILD ON DECEMBER 2019 • FREE!

PL AY 100

+

HOLIDAY INS & OUTS

GIFT IDEAS THIS SEASON

EVENTS, MOVIES & SHARING KINDNESS

FAMILY COOKING

Team Up with Kids in the Kitchen

OPEN YOUR HOME Host International Guests

NortheastOhioParent.com December 2019 - NortheastOhioParent.com | 1

2 | Family Living at Its Best

An immersive holiday adventure & personal visit with Mr. Kringle

December 2019 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 3

December

insiDE

NortheastOhioParent.com

departments

features

06

26

EDITOR’S NOTE Finding joy this holiday season — and building trust.

08

WORTH NOTING Small bites for your baby, Literacy Day at Akron Children’s Museum, Reading Room and more.

HOLIDAY FUN LISTINGS Whatever you are celebrating this season, find an event in this special section. We provide family-friendly options through New Year’s.

Plus, find sensory-friendly options for families who have children with special needs.

34

14

EDUCATION NEWS Noteworthy happenings from schools and more in the region.

FAMILY COOKING

Find easy and creative ways to team up with your kids in the kitchen.

25

WINTER BREAK CAMPS AND PROGRAMS Here’s a list of things for your kids to do in the region.

32

38

HOSTING THE WORLD IN YOUR OWN HOME

International hosting opportunities bring culture and curiosity to area homes.

19

BOOKS, TOYS AND GADGETS — OH MY!

The NPPA 2019 Holiday Gift Guide has suggestions for everyone on your list.

FAMILY FUN Everyone will enjoy these holiday movies that capture the spirit of the season.

41

FAMILY CALENDAR

Find events for all ages with these area happenings.

48

AGING ANSWERS

Twenty-five ways for kids to spend time with their grandparents over the winter break.

50

DAD MATTERS

ON THE COVER:

Luke and his mom, Shayleen, play with LeapFrog Leapbuilders ABC Smart House, a toy featured in this month’s gift guide.

PHOTO BY KIM STAHNKE PHOTOGRAPHY KIMSTAHNKEPHOTOGRAPHY.COM

4 | Family Living at Its Best

The benefits (and bruises) of having a karate kid.

✁

FRIDGEABLE FUN! Teach Your Kids About Kindness: cut-out on page 12.

December 2019 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 5

PHOTO BY PRELUDE PHOTOGRAPHY

Editor's NOTE

Finding Joy I don’t know about you, but I am ready for the holiday season. I want the lights, festivities with family and delicious food, but not my cooking.

My goal isn’t completely to dive into seemingly Hallmark moments, but really to find some joy.

Recently, I interviewed a local head of school for an article. She talked about looking at the concept of joy — “defining and creating additional spaces” for it. Her words stuck with me.

Can we all do that in our own lives?

As we begin a new decade, maybe it’s an opportunity to redefine things.

You hear it all the time in the news: a rise in hate, division and general distrust of each other.

In fact, according to “Americans’ trust in other Americans,” a 2019 Pew Research study, “about half (49 percent) think a major weight dragging down such trust is that Americans are not as reliable as they used to be.”

Some people “worry the swing toward interpersonal distrust is an overreaction. Seventy-nine percent think their fellow citizens have too little confidence in each other and 21 percent think personal confidence in the country has worsened for little good reason.”

Our social media feeds and other areas of our lives are filled with words or memes that might have us questioning what “the other side” is thinking, and it’s hard not to get a little down and joyless.

To combat this, some people get off social media and go into hiding or don’t talk to certain loved ones. However, I think there might be a simpler solution than that: just be kind to others.

A couple months ago, another obligation interfered with my hair appointment (for someone who has been going gray since age 18, this is something I refuse to cancel). I thought I couldn’t get in at all, but my hairdresser called her client, who was retired and had an early appointment. The woman agreed to switch her appointment with me. This was a small miracle to me and I was grateful, so I decided to pay for her haircut. I didn’t really think about it until I heard that the woman was overjoyed about the gesture. I had “made her day.”

The money it cost me wasn’t a big deal, but it felt good to pay it forward. It brought me joy.

So, I have a challenge for everyone this month. Find joy by helping others, even if it’s small — and not just for the people you love. For example, bring coffee to your daycare teacher, pay for someone’s order in the drive-thru or say kind and encouraging words to someone who needs it. You can get your kids involved, too; see our story on pg. 12 that you can cut out and put on your fridge as a long-term reminder.

It’s not just about doing something nice but more about being kind. Just maybe, this will help 2020 start off in a direction of improving trust with each other and bringing some more joy to everyone — and ‘tis the season to try.

Happy Holidays to all! See you next year!

VOL. NO. 6 • ISSUE NO. 12

December 2019 Northeast Ohio Parent is a property of

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

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

EDITOR - Angela Gartner

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

brandon@northeastohioparent.com DIGITAL CONTENT MANAGER - Denise Koeth

denise@northeastohioparent.com GRAPHIC DESIGNER - Sherry Lundberg

sherry@northeastohioparent.com ADVERTISING SALES:

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

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

PUBLISHER OF:

Proud member of

Parenting Media

Association

6 | Family Living at Its Best

A New Day for the Baldwin Wallace University Community Arts School It’s a new day at Baldwin Wallace’s Community Arts School (CAS). New programs for learners of all ages— designed with the community and its families in mind—carry the unmistakable handprint of the renowned BW faculty.

“Our main focus is to develop and implement quality programming that is vetted by BW faculty and focused on excellence both in instruction and in the curriculum,” says Adam Sheldon, Director of CAS, which now serves more than 4,000 households. The CAS faculty and staff have grown to meet expanding demand. New faculty in theatre, dance and visual arts bring the total roster to 84.

“We have a dual mission,” Sheldon says. “We serve a broad base of community members and remain committed to ensuring access to quality arts education regardless of age or ability. At the same time, we give BW students the chance to have hands-on, real-life experiences through internships and teaching opportunities. It is what distinguishes many of our students as they seek employment.”

EXPLORE OUR PROGRAMS:

DANCE

Ages 2-Adult

Field experiences have been offered to Music Education and Arts Management majors for over a decade. In 2010, the National Association for Schools of Music recognized this collaboration as a model throughout the nation. In the coming months, CAS intends to extend this programming to BW students in dance, theatre and visual art.

Other program offerings will evolve based on interests. To accommodate growing demand, CAS has already begun remodeling the newly acquired 7,000-square-foot satellite location at the Helwig WhistleStop Building, 611 Bagley Road in Berea. Three new dance floors have been added, and the new art studio and theatre classroom have new equipment. In addition, renovation has begun on a black box theatre, which will host CAS performances and rehearsals.

Sheldon notes, “We’re thrilled that these new programs allow CAS to deepen our engagement with the local community.”

Visit bw.edu/cas to stay up-to-date on news and events.

The Baldwin Wallace Community Arts School (CAS) provides a wide array of dance, music, theatre and visual art programming that connects individual ability with pathways for artistic growth.

For more information, visit bw.edu/cas or call 440-826-2365.

Programming includes classes in ballet, jazz, contemporary, lyrical, tap, acro and hip hop, providing comprehensive, focused dance training in a collaborative environment.

MUSIC

All Ages (infant through adult) We offer meaningful music opportunities for every level, including private lessons and classes as well as large and small ensembles for all ages and abilities.

THEATRE

Ages 4-17 Offering a variety of classes and 1-day masterclasses, our theatre program promotes student artistry through self-expression, theatre training and collaboration.

VISUAL ART Ages 6-Adult

Our visual art classes provide a creative outlet for students of all experience levels. Offerings include drawing, cartooning, painting, photography, jewelry making and art exploration.

SUMMER ARTS PROGRAMS Grades 4-12

Residential band, string and music theatre camps for middle school students, as well as college-prep intensive programs for high school students.

December 2019 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 7

Worth NOTING

U

Finger Foods for Babies

ntil now, feeding your baby has been your job. However, as your baby gets older, your little one will want to do this more and more on his or her own.

When babies begin feeding themselves — a new task most really enjoy — they’ll find that they like trying new tastes and textures. No longer are baby purees and mushy cereals the only things on the menu.

By the time they’re 9 months old, most babies have developed the fine motor skills — the small, precise movements — needed to pick up small pieces of food and feed themselves. You may notice that yours can take hold of food (and other small objects) between forefinger and thumb in a pincer grasp. The

pincer grasp starts out a little clumsy, but with practice soon evolves into a masterful and efficient skill.

Allow your child to self-feed as much as possible, though you’ll still be helping out by spoon-feeding cereal and other important dietary elements. Encouraging finger feeding helps your child develop independent, healthy eating habits.

Finger feeding — and using utensils a little later — gives babies a measure of control over what they eat and how much. Sometimes they’ll eat the food, sometimes not, and that’s all part of the process of learning self-regulation. Even little kids can tell when they’re hungry or full, so let them learn to recognize and respond to these cues.

WHAT SHOULD A BABY EAT?

Now that they’re joining the rest of the family for meals, older babies are ready — and often willing — to try more table foods.

This means more work for whoever is preparing the meals for the family, but dishes often can be adapted for the baby. For instance, your little one can have some of the zucchini you’re making for dinner as long as you cook that portion just a bit longer — until it’s soft — and cut it into pieces that are small enough for the baby to handle. Pieces of ripe banana, well-cooked pasta and small pieces of chicken are other good choices.

Before presenting your child with a finger food, try a bite first and ask yourself: Does it melt in the mouth? Some dry cereals and crackers that are light and flaky will melt in the mouth.

Is it cooked enough so that it mushes easily? Well-cooked veggies and fruits will mush easily, as will canned fruit and vegetables (choose ones without added sugar or salt).

Is it naturally soft? Cottage cheese, shredded cheese and small pieces of tofu are good examples.

Can it be gummed? Pieces of ripe banana and well-cooked pasta can be.

Is it small enough? Food should be cut into small pieces. The sizes will vary depending on the food’s texture. A piece of chicken, for instance, needs to be smaller than a piece of watermelon, which even a pair of baby gums will quickly smash.

If your child doesn’t like a food, don’t let that stop you from offering it at future meals. Kids are naturally slow to accept new tastes and textures. For example, some are more sensitive to texture and may reject coarse foods, such as meat.

When introducing meat, it’s helpful to start with well-cooked ground meats or shreds of thinly sliced deli meats, such as turkey.

Courtesy of The Nemours Foundation/KidsHealth® 1995-2019..

Reprinted with permission.

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

Akron Children’s Museum Celebrates Early Literacy, Plans Expansion

Present your baby with a variety of foods, even some that he or she didn’t seem to like the week before.

Don’t force your baby to eat, but realize that it can take 10 or more tries before a child will accept a new food.

FINGER FOODS TO AVOID

Finger feeding is fun and rewarding for older babies, but it’s important to avoid foods that can cause choking and those with little nutritional value.

Choking Hazards Parents and caregivers can help prevent choking by supervising the baby during eating. Foods that are choking hazards include: • pieces of raw vegetables or hard fruits • whole grapes, berries, cherry or grape tomatoes (instead, peel and slice or cut in quarters) • raisins and other dried fruit • peanuts, nuts and seeds • large scoops of peanut butter and other nut or seed butters (use only a thin layer) • whole hot dogs and kiddie sausages (peel and cut these in very small pieces) • untoasted bread, especially white bread that sticks together • chunks of cheese or meat • candy (hard candy, jelly beans, gummies, chewing gum, etc.)

• popcorn, pretzels, corn chips and other snack foods • marshmallows Hold the Sweets At first bite, your baby probably will love the taste of cookies, cake and other sweets, but do not introduce them now. Your little one needs to eat nutrient-rich foods instead of consuming empty calories found in desserts and high-fat snacks, such as potato chips.

It’s tempting to want to see the baby’s reactions to some of these foods, but now is not the time. Grandparents and others may want to rush your baby into trying triple-chocolate cake or some other family favorite.

Politely and firmly explain that the baby isn’t ready for those foods. You can blame this tough love on your child’s doctor — the doctor won’t mind.

Left: Authors Lana Wayne Koehler (left) and Gloria Adams read “Ah-Choo” to a group of young children during a celebration of National Family Literacy Day. Right: Author Lindsay Bonilla (left), with help from Akron Children’s Museum Education Coordinator Margaret Keller, does an interactive reading of “Polar Bear Island.”

Akron Children’s Museum last month welcomed local authors and community organizations in celebration of National Family Literacy Day. Museum visitors were treated to special appearances and interactive storytelling experiences with three local authors, who also were available for meet-and-greet sessions and book signings throughout the day.

The featured authors included: R.J. Davila, who shared his book “When Willie Got His Wheels”; Gloria Adams and her co-author on “Ah-Choo!,” Lana Wayne Koehler; and Lindsay Bonilla, who read her book, “Polar Bear Island.”

The National Family Literacy Day event also included a story walk, scavenger hunt and flannel board stories, in addition to the museum’s regular 22 interactive exhibits. Visitors were invited to dress as their favorite book character.

“Literacy is the foundation to success in society, so it’s important that we introduce it to the lives of young children as early as possible,” says Traci Buckner, the museum’s executive director.

Now in its fourth year, the Akron Children’s museum is on the verge of a significant expansion. According to Buckner, the museum’s existing 7,000-square-foot space will increase by an additional 3,000 square feet with the addition of more exhibits, a family restroom, a

party room and a STEAM learning lab. A recently opened Monster Mission ninja course adds to the fun for visitors while helping to raise funds for the expansion.

The Monster Mission course and STEAM learning lab both appeal to older children, giving the museum more offerings for the 8- to 12-year-old age range, Buckner says.

The Akron Children’s Museum, 216 S. Main St., is open Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and weekends from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The museum is closed on Mondays.

For more information, visit akronkids.org.

December 2019 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 9

Worth NOTING

‘Ultimate Dinosaurs’

ONLINE IN DECEMBER

at the Cleveland Museum of Natural History

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

LOCAL TOY & BOOK STORES

NEW TECHNOLOGY GIVES UP-CLOSE LOOK AT LITTLE-KNOWN SPECIES Come face to face with unique and bizarre dinosaurs of the Southern Hemisphere in Kahn Hall at the Cleveland Museum of Natural History with full-size reconstructions, real touchable fossils and augmented reality.

“Ultimate Dinosaurs,” open until April 26, reveals species of dinosaurs that evolved in isolation in South America, Madagascar and other parts of Africa and examines how and why are they are so different from their North American counterparts. The exhibit was created by the Science Museum of Minnesota.

The exhibit tells the origin story of continents, how they once were fully connected as a supercontinent called Pangea and how their separation resulted in massive evolutionary diversity in dinosaurs. Visitors will experience the awe-inspiring presence of these

creatures as they wander among 16 life-size casts and numerous prehistoric specimens, using augmented reality to imagine these beasts in the flesh.

“The exhibit’s use of new technology brings history to life like never before, allowing our visitors to ‘engage’ with dinosaurs they never knew existed and that were unknown even to scientists as recently as 30 years ago,” says Sonia Winner, president and CEO of the Cleveland Museum of Natural History. “‘Ultimate Dinosaurs’ is a great example of how we are using technology to advance our mission to educate and connect with our community in compelling ways.”

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit cmnh.org.

Still seeking the perfect gifts for the kids on your holiday shopping list?

Look no further than these locally owned toy, book and gift shops. We provide a list of stores in the region that can help you complete your shopping.

TOY DRIVES & DONATION SPOTS

Teach your kids the importance of helping those in need by donating gifts at an area toy collection event or drop-off location. We share several options in the Cleveland/Akron area.

FACEBOOK GIVEAWAYS

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

The Womb Wellness Center

READING ROOM ELEMENTARY

TEENS

Unicorn Wings

By Mallory Loehr

Unicorn books are in high demand and this cute little story will be perfect. This is a story about a unicorn that wanted wings, and the illustrations are vibrant and gorgeous and assist in the storytelling.

Submitted by Willoughby-Eastlake Public Library

EDITOR’S REVIEW

Suggested Reading

by Dave Connis

Clara Evans is horrified when she discovers her principal’s “prohibited media” hit list. The iconic books on the list have been pulled from the library and aren’t allowed anywhere on the school’s premises. Students caught with the contraband will be sternly punished. So Clara starts an underground library in her locker, doing a shady trade in titles like “Speak” and “The Chocolate War.” But when one of the books she loves most is connected to a tragedy she never saw coming, Clara’s forced to face her role in it.

Submitted by Willoughby-Eastlake Public Library

10 | Family Living at Its Best

Ladybird Favourite Stories (for boys or girls)

By Mandy Archer

There are two versions of this book, for girls and boys, with each featuring eight classic tales. My youngest son really enjoyed the book that has fables such as “Three Billy Goats Gruff,” “The Elves and the Shoemaker,” “Jack and the Beanstalk” and “Three Little Pigs.” While these stories are written during a different time, one without modern technologies, they seem to never lose appeal or go out of style for kids — or adults. This author’s version of these classic tales has a light, kid-friendly and cheery tone.

This is a book I chose randomly one day when going to the bookstore. I loved how it had all these classic stories in one binding.

Yes, since I have boys, I thought it would appease my all-boy youngest son. However, I think the only disappointing thing about the book is its split audience — I feel everyone could enjoy it.

— Angela Gartner

7 ILLNESSES YOUR CHILD - SPONSORED CONTENT -

meet our doc

MAY CATCH THIS WINTER 1. COMMON COLD

4. EAR INFECTIONS

Signs: Runny nose, sneezing, mild fever, poor appetite, cough, sore sore throat and/or swollen glands.

Signs: Fever, earache, fluid draining from the ear, trouble sleeping or balancing and/or hearing loss.

Home treatment: Clear nostrils with a suction bulb or saline drops. Place a cool-mist humidifier in the room at night to ease sleep.

Home treatment: Put a warm, moist cloth over the painful ear. Acetaminophen or ibuprofen can also ease the ache.

Call the doctor if: The child is 3 months of age or younger; the child has trouble breathing, blue lips or nails, a temperature of 102 degrees Fahrenheit or higher or ear pain; or the symptoms last more than one week.

Call the doctor if: The child has a fever greater than 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit; or, if there is blood and/or pus oozing from the child’s ear(s).

2. RESPIRATORY SYNCYTIAL VIRUS (RSV) Signs: Same as colds. There may also be wheezing or grunting with each breath.

Home treatment: Give fluids, use a cool-mist vaporizer and clear the nose. Acetaminophen or ibuprofen can relieve pain (always check labels for correct dosage, and never give a child aspirin).

Ibuprofen should not be given before 6 months of age.

Call the doctor for: The same reasons as for a cold or extreme fatigue, thick and colored nasal discharge or a worsening cough.

3. FLU Signs: Fever, fatigue, sore throat, stuffy nose, sometimes vomiting and diarrhea (this is more common in kids than adults), and aching head, body or muscles.

Home treatment: Practice prevention by having your child receive a yearly flu shot beginning at age 6 months. Once he or she is ill, rest and water work best.

Call the doctor if: The child is 5 years of age or younger or has a chronic illness; the child has trouble breathing, severe vomiting; lack of interaction or extreme irritability; or the symptoms improve and then come back.

CARMEN HANSFORD, MD Pediatrician, Elyria Pediatric Care Clinical Instructor, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine

5. GASTROENTERITIS (STOMACH FLU) Signs: Fever, stomach or abdominal pain, vomiting and/or watery diarrhea.

Home treatment: Encourage rest, provide plenty of fluids and try to get your child to eat his or her regular diet.

Call the doctor if: There is blood or brightlycolored bile in the vomit; there are signs of dehydration such as extreme thirst, less urine and fewer tears produced; or the child has sunken eyes and/or weight loss.

6. CROUP Signs: Barking, hacking cough that usually worsens at night.

Home treatment: Moist air helps. Use a humidifier or sit in a steamy bathroom with your child for 10 minutes.

Call the doctor if: The child has trouble breathing or makes a high-pitched noise when inhaling; or there is dark or bluish skin tone around the face or fingernails.

7. STREP THROAT Signs: Severe pain when swallowing, tiny red spots on the roof of the mouth, high fever, white patches on the tonsils, swollen lymph nodes in the neck and/ or decreased appetite.

Home treatment: Gargling with warm salt water.

Treat with acetaminophen or ibuprofen for pain.

Call the doctor if: Any of the symptoms listed above are present.

December |2019 - NortheastOhioParent.com | UHRainbow.org 216-877-8671

11

Ages & STAGES

for Kids

By Denise Koeth

T

o today’s kids, kindness is cool. With many schools and parents putting more emphasis on unity, empathy and caring for others, kids often are left with the desire to do good.

Since it can be hard to come up with concrete ways for small hands to make a big difference, here are 50 acts of kindness for kids of all ages to do year-round.

5 1. Let someone go ahead

5 18. If it’s raining, share your

5 5 3. Pick up litter at the park.

5 4. Talk to someone new

5 19. Write a thank-you note to

of you in line.

2. Set the table for dinner.

at school.

5 5. Write kind chalk messages on the sidewalk.

5

6. Donate a toy to children in need.

5 7. Bring in your neighbors’

umbrella with someone for a few blocks. someone who helps you.

5 38. Invite someone new over

of the armed services.

5

5

5 27. Tape change to a parking

5 12. Text a compliment to a friend.

5 13. Put change in the coin

return of a vending machine.

5 14. Hold open the door for someone.

to play.

for someone to discover.

5 10. Make a homemade gift 11. Dry the slides at the park with a towel after it rains.

a preschool class.

a kind note in a 5 22. Bury toys at the playground 5 39. Leave library book.

5 25. Rake a neighbor’s leaves

for someone.

while they are away.

5 21. Send a card to a member

and donate the profits.

5 9. Collect money or items for your favorite charity.

5 36. Water a neighbor’s plants 5 37. Make slime or playdough for

5 8. Clean up your room without being asked.

for the day.

5 20. Set up a lemonade stand

5 23. Make lunch for your family.

5 24. Ask for donations instead

garbage cans.

5 35. Do someone else’s chores

of birthday gifts.

or shovel their driveway.

26. Bring flowers to your teacher. meter.

5 40. Draw or color a picture for someone.

5 41. Bring board games to play at a nursing home.

5 42. Make a gift or card for a teacher.

5 43. Walk a neighbor’s dog.

5 44. Give away clothes you don’t wear.

5 28. Volunteer for a local charity.

5 45. Collect books for the library.

5 29. Take treats to a fire or police station.

5 46. Listen quietly and kindly to someone.

5 30. Read a book to someone.

5 47. Put away stray grocery 5 31. Sit with someone who carts at the store. is alone.

5 15. Help load or unload

5 32. Teach someone something 5 48. Invite a neighbor over for

5 16. Call your grandparents just

5 33. Smile at 10 people today.

5 34. Collect coats and blankets

someone’s groceries.

to say hello.

5 17. Tell someone why they are special to you.

12 | Family Living at Its Best

new.

for the homeless.

dinner.

5 49. Donate food and toys to an animal shelter.

5 50. Compliment a friend to their parents.

✁

50

Acts of Kindness

✳

Cut out and hang on your fridge.

December 2019 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 13

Education NEWS

Job Training Helps to Empower Teens with Special Needs Northcoast Corn Creations provides a learning environment for students to gain vocational skills outside of the classroom

T

By Angela Gartner

eenagers Logan, Ryan, While he had other business Matthew, Antonio and ideas, the gourmet popcorn seemed LaShawn work at Northto be a good fit for this learning encoast Corn Creations, a vironment. gourmet popcorn shop located In the shop, there are many flain Willoughby that provides emvors to choose from — if you love ployment training opportunities sweets, try caramel, banana and for students with autism and deblueberry, or go for the savory flavors velopmental disabilities. like cheddar and pizza, salt and vinOn the day we visited, some of egar, white cheddar and dill pickle. the teens were putting labels on A colorful signature mix, which the popcorn bags, while others is inspired by the autism awareness Fred Frisco is president of Re-Education Services a special needs school, and Northcoast Corn Creations, as well as an intervention worked on the shop’s latest prodpuzzle ribbon, is called “Embracing specialist. He developed the shop to provide a safe, constructive uct: dog treats.

Autism” and blends the fruit flavors. job training worksite for students with special needs.

Fred Frisco is president of There is also “Captain’s Crunch,” Re-Education Services, a spea caramel flavor, which is available “I am a teacher who fell in love with empowcial needs school, and Northcoast Corn Cre- ering others to understand special education as during baseball games at the Lake County ations, as well as an intervention specialist. He a whole,” he says. “The talk around special edu- Captains Classic Park in Eastlake. says he developed the shop around three years cation is all about what is next. We want to give The teens, who are from school districts ago to provide a safe, constructive job training them opportunities to want to try to go outside around the region, work under the guidance of worksite for students who need to learn em- those boundaries. The social skills are a critical occupational and speech therapists, intervenployability skills outside of the classroom. tion specialists, teachers and other support staff, piece.”

- CONTINUED ON PAGE 16 -

14 | Family Living at Its Best

December 2019 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 15

Education NEWS - CONTINUED FROM PAGE 14 -

and help to produce and package products, sell the popcorn during store hours and provide customer service for online orders.

Kaitlyn Lieb, an intervention specialist at Re-Education Services who works with the

students, says they are learning independence and vocational skills, but also the functional curriculum — math, science, reading, social studies — through basic job tasks.

“This is their last chance to work on this vocational aspect before they jump into

Above: Antonio learns how to bake dog treats at Northcoast Corn Creations.

after-school programs,” she says, noting most kids in the program are from ages 16-21. “(The students) are employable, but they just need additional support at the workplace. I think it’s important to have a diverse community in the workplace. They should have all the opportunities that we do — and they would really work hard and do a good job.”

Popcorn Gifts & “Coal” for the Holidays

If you are looking for a special treat, the retail shop has lots of options, including the new gourmet popcorn “Coal,” a black cherry flavor that you can provide to anyone who is on your “naughty” or “nice” gift list. Visit northcoastcorn.com for store hours and online ordering.

16 | Family Living at Its Best

Experience

excellence in education.

PRESCHOOL THROUGH EIGHTH GRADE

Call today for a personal tour!

Inspiring. Innovative. Intelligent.

1791 S. Jacoby Road Copley, OH 44321 330.666.0574 admissions@sgws.org blog.sgws.org

www.sgws.org

December 2019 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 17

- SPONSORED CONTENT -

Think Hudson for the Holidays!

Wherever your holiday travels may take you, there’s nothing quite like the feeling of warmth and charm you will find in the heart of Hudson during the holiday season.

Consistently named one of Ohio’s Best Hometowns, Hudson is home to more than 90 unique shops, restaurants and service businesses along Main Street, First & Main and throughout town.

The blend of locally owned boutiques and national retailers offers something for everyone on your holiday list. And nothing complements a day of shopping like a great meal. Hudson offers dozens of award-winning restaurants so you can refuel before you pick up those final items on your holiday list or enjoy time with family and friends.

Searching for a little piece of Hudson to take home with you or send to a loved one? Stop by the Destination Hudson Visitor Center at 27 East Main Street for exclusive clocktower ornaments, coffee mugs, t-shirts, local artwork, and Hudson-themed merchandise.

The members of the Merchants of Hudson invite you to come home to Hudson this holiday season and share in the experience of Hudson and all if has to offer.

Happy Holidays from your friends in Hudson!

18 | Family Living at Its Best

This Holiday Season...

Share the Experience of First & Main Hudson Make holiday memories that last a lifetime with a gift from First & Main Hudson.

Stroll through our blend of national chains, unique local shops and award winning restaurants as you enjoy Summit County’s premier shopping district.

Visit us online for a complete list of shops, restaurants and holiday events. www.FirstandMainHudson.com

THURSDAYS DEC 5 - DEC 19

FIRST AND MAIN HUDSON

Select businesses will be open until 8pm for a late night shopping experience. Visit merchantsofhudson.com for a list of the participating businesses.

100 GIFT

s a e id Story By Elena Epstein,

Director of the

National Parenting Product Awards Photo By Kim Stahnke

T

his holiday season, National Parenting Product Awards provides a 2019 Holiday Gift Guide with something for everyone. Grouped by category, these gift options can help you spark imagination and creativity in your kids while learning, laughing and creating memories with your whole family.

December 2019 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 19

100 GIFTeas id

➌

➋

➊ ➍

FUN & LEARNING

1. Botzees: An augmented reality robotics kit that combines construction, coding and creativity. Kit contains 130 uniquely shaped, easyto-grip blocks, plus 30 interactive augmented reality puzzles. $99.99, ages 4+, pai.technology. 2. Moving Creations with K’nex: Learn to apply STEM principles just like an engineer using experiments and “Think Bigger” challenges. $39.99, ages 8-14, hand2mind.com. 3. PAW Patrol Learning Watch: Chase, Marshall, Skye: Interactive watches include four exciting games you can play to recognize patterns and identify animal tracks. It’s also a clock, timer, stopwatch and alarm. $14.99, ages 3-6, vtechkids.com. 4. Remote-Control Gear-Bot: Create and control your robot by connecting any combination of gears, claws and heads to a motorized base. $49.99, ages 4+, lakeshorelearning.com. 5. Novie: Train the Interactive robot to do more than 12 awesome tricks. $24.99, ages 6+, spinmaster.com. 6.Osmo Little Genius Starter Kit: Combines hands-on play of Friedrich Froebel’s and Maria Montessori’s manipulatives with advanced computer vision for a personalized and highly engaging experience. $79, ages 3-5, playosmo.com. 7. LeapBuilders ABC Smart House: Build, create and learn with this interactive 61-piece house-themed block set. $39.99, ages 2-5, leapfrog.com. 8. Beaker Creatures Alien Experiment Lab: Mix up some fun with slime science, fizz science and more. $19.99, ages 5+, beakercreatures.com. 9. Marbleocity 4-Bar Link: Use the hand crank or attach a motor (sold separately) to watch the marbles ascend and then flip-flop down again in this Monster brand toy. $24.99, ages 9+, playmonster.com. 10. Coding Critters: These interactive pets introduce critical-thinking, problem-solving and STEM skills. $39.99, ages 4+, learningresources.com. 11. Learn & Groove Shakin’ Colors Maracas: Includes three play modes that introduce colors, numbers and music in English and Spanish. $14.99, ages 6+ months, leapfrog.com.

12

13

GET CREATIVE

14 15

12. Playfoam Pluffle: The Squishologists have formulated a brand new squish-sation that never dries out. $29.99, ages 5+, educationalinsights.com. 13. Crayola Spin and Spiral Art Station: Create spiralized art and spin art in a 2-in-1 kid-powered station. $19.99, ages 6+, shop.crayola.com. 14.Y’Art: Create amazing works of textured yarn art with the ease of coloring. $14.99, ages 8+, kahootz.com.

15. Kinetic Sand Sandisfying Set: Everything you need to create your own mesmerizing sand effects and make oddly satisfying videos. $19.99, ages 3+, kineticsand.com. 16. Cool Maker KumiKreator 2-in-1 Maker: Load the colorful spools into the machine, spin and create friendship bracelets and necklaces in minutes. $24.99, ages 8+, coolmaker.com. 17. Make Your Own Cross Stitch Wood Jewelry: Put a modern twist on the simple craft. $19.95, ages 8+, mindware.com. 18. Scribble Scrubbie Safari Oasis: Adorable, colorable and washable pet figures that kids can customize. $19.99, ages 3+, shop.crayola.com. 19. Blinger Diamond Collection: This new glam styling tool allows you to add gems to your hair, clothes and more. $19.99, ages 6+, wickedcooltoys.com. 20. Aquabeads Deluxe Studio: Set contains more than 1,300 jewel and solid beads in 24 colors to create 3D designs. $29.95, ages 4+, aquabeadsart.com. 21. Gifeez: Draw, color and customize your own GIFs. $19.99, ages 6+, spinmaster.com. 22.Cool Maker Go Glam Nail Stamper: Ultimate at-home nail kit to easily stamp and style custom manicures in minutes. $24.99, ages 8+, coolmaker.com. 23. My Fairy Garden Nature Cottage: Use the included seeds to grow a real garden on top and along the bottom. $29.99, ages 4+, playmonster.com.

20 | Family Living at Its Best

25 24

26

27

IMAGINATIVE PLAY

24. Treasure Seekers Pirate Ship: Raise the anchor and search for hidden treasure. $39.99, ages 1.5+, vtechkids.com. 25. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Adventures Playset: Create your own Hot Dog Hills adventures. $34.99, ages 3+, justplayproducts.com. 26. DreamWorks ‘Spirit Riding Free’ Spirit & Lucky Grooming Paddock: Features an upstairs loft to drop hay into the nursery corral and washing station to give Spirit a bath. $39.88, ages 3+, justplayproducts.com. 27. Ariel Music & Lights Vanity: Includes a vanity, Flounder jar with lid and foam pad, play perfume bottle, tiara, earrings, play curling iron, dinglehopper brush, comb and four bands. $59.99, ages 3+, shopdisney.com. 28. American Girl Bowling Alley: Fully functional doll-sized alley, complete with lights, bowling sounds and score-keeping. $150, ages 8+, americangirl.com. 29. Build & Play Treehouse: Each charming piece is molded with realistic textures and vibrant details, snapping together with ease for frustration-free building. $49.99, ages 3+, lakeshorelearning.com. 30. KaBlocks Blast: Uses kinetic force, rather than air power, to blast soft foam blocks over 6 feet into the air. $39.95, ages 3+, mindware.com.

31. KidiGo Walkie Talkies: Keep in touch anywhere with these kid-safe, two-way radios. Include two-player games for real-time gaming between devices. $34.99, ages 4+, vtechkids.com. 32. Let’s Pretend Shopkeeper: With a chalkboard top, hanging sign and magnetic menu, this setup has plenty of opportunities for personalization. $129.99, ages 3+, kidkraft.com. 33. Disney Princess Style Collection Play Suitcase: Features real working wheels, a retractable handle and storage for included travel accessories.$39.99, ages 3+, jakks.com. 34. Dig It Up! Discoveries: Dragons: Chip and chisel to release 12 fantastical creatures from their golden eggs and learn about each one’s mystical powers in the discovery guide. $25.95, ages 4+, mindware.com. 35. Smart Sizzlin’ BBQ Grill: Attach the food pieces on the skewer and the grill will introduce food and colors. Turn the skewer lever to count along from 1-10. $39.99, ages 2+, leapfrog.com. 36. PLAYMOBIL Mars Space Station: All the tools needed for space exploration. $79.99, ages 6+, playmobil.us.

37. Toy Story 4’ Buzz Lightyear Star Command Center: Have a blast in launch mode (upright) or flight mode (horizontal). Console panel converts into a desk. $119.99, ages 4+, jakks.com. 38. Automoblox: An innovative reinvention of the classic wooden toy car with buildable and mixable parts. $29.99, ages 4+, playmonster.com. 39. Sweet Raspberry Home: Newest addition to the Calico Critters’ Village, perfectly matching the detail and design of the Red Roof Cozy Cottage and Red Roof Country Home. $24.95 ages, 3+, calicocritters.com. 40. Croco Jungle Research Station: Set off on a mission to discover rare species and secret treasures. $99.99, ages 5+, schleich-s.com.

43 41

42

FUN WITH FRIENDS

45 44

41. Gigantosaurus Roar & Stomp Giganto: Features six points of articulation. $29.99, ages 3+, jakks.com. 42. Potter Hedwig Interactive Creature: This owl makes 12 unique sounds and responds to sounds by turning her head. $19.99, ages 4+, jakks.com. 43. Juno My Baby Elephant: With over 150 lifelike movements and sounds. $99.99, ages 5+, junomybabyelephant.com. 44. Disney Junior Minnie Walk & Dance Unicorn Feature Plush: Press Minnie’s hand to see Penelope dance. Attach Minnie’s hand to Penelope’s back and watch them walk together. $39.99, ages 3+, justplayproducts.com. 45. Playdate Ariel: She is beautiful and 32-inches tall. Lightweight and easy to carry around. $59.99, ages 3+, jakks.com. 46. Harry Monti Kids: A unique at-home Montessori-based program designed and safety tested by experts, containing toys, parent guides, free access to online classes, one-on-one support and a private community moderated by internationally certified Montessori experts. $297 per level, ages birth-36 months, montikids.com. 47. Boppi the Booty Shakin’ Llama: Get the whole family dancing and laughing with Boppi, who shakes it like nobody is watching. $19.99, ages 3+, zuru.com. 48. Julie’s Pinball Machine: Go retro with this working, doll-size arcade game. $150, ages 8+, americangirl.com. 49. PJ Masks PJ Seeker: Be on the lookout for the Nighttime Villains and save the day. $59.99, ages 3+, justplayproducts.com. 50. JoJo Siwa Singing JoJo Doll D.R.E.A.M.: Sporting her signature double bow, this 10-inch doll sings her newest hit song, “D.R.E.A.M.” $19.99, ages 6+, justplayproducts.com. 51. #SNAPSTAR: Squad includes Lola, Aspen, Dawn, Yuki, Echo and Izzy. Use the app to glam up your doll and share with friends on social. $14.47, ages 5+, snapstartworld.com. 52. DreamWorks ‘Dragons’: Hatching Baby Toothless: Toothless comes to life inside the egg. Outside the egg, he plays games, moves, roars and purrs. $59.99, ages 5+. 53. Myla the Magical Unicorn: This unicorn glitters with lights as she talks and sings. Use the wand to change her colors. $59.99, ages 4+, vtechkids.com. 54. Disney Junior T.O.T.S. Nursery Headquarters Playset: Care for these baby animals until they’re ready to be delivered to their forever homes. $39.99, ages 3+, justplayproducts.com.

December 2019 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 21

100 GIFTeas id

56 55

GAME ON!

57

58

55. Cheeky Butts: A hot potato style family game of spot and match. $14.99, ages 6+, bananagrams.com. 56. Mad Moves: Perform ballet as a T-Rex or limbo like a baby. Get ready to dance like you’ve never before. $19.99, ages 8+, playmonster.com. 57. My First Memory Game Ocean: Learn about ocean animals as you match the pictures. $9.99, ages 2+, tlji.com. 58. Friends of a Feather: Add feathers to your bird each turn by drawing from the deck or trading away your unwanted ones to the nest. $19.99, ages 3+, ravensburger.us. 59. The Tonight Show starring Jimmy Fallon Box of Lies Party Game: Challenge friends to the bluffing game of hilarious objects. $19.99, ages 10+, hasbrogaming.hasbro.com. 60. Pick Me Up, Piggy!: Tell stories, remember where to find hidden farm friends, take turns and work cooperatively to win the game. $19.9, ages 3+, mindware.com. 61. Meltdown: The ooey-gooey game of skill. Stack cubes on the putty goop that shifts and moves. $17.99, ages 7+, playmonster.com. 62. Butts Up: A fun twist on musical chairs. Fess up about things you’ve done, stuff you like and things you wish. $22.99, ages 7+ playmonster.com. 63. Marble Circuit: It’s logic, strategy and a brain game all in one. $24.95, ages 8+, mindware.com. 64. JAWS: A Game of Strategy and Suspense: A suspenseful tabletop strategy game that captures the edge-of your-seat excitement of the classic movie. $29.99, ages 10+, ravensburger.us. 65. Fish for Fish: Campers race against their friends to catch the most fish with their plastic spear. $19.99, ages 4+, yulutoys.com. 66. Disney Villainous: Wicked to the Core: Discover your unique abilities while dealing twists of fate to your opponents. $24.99, ages 10+, ravensburger.us. 67. KIC-Start – Kids in Conversation: A fun get-to-know-you card game with 150 conversation-starter questions great for kids and adults. $19.95, ages 13+, contenderbrands.com. 68. Heads Talk Tails Walk: Can you hop like a frog while clucking like a chicken? Have a blast trying. $14.99, ages, 3+, thinkfun.com. 69. Orangutwang: How much can you hang before he goes twaaang? Take turns hanging fruit and jungle friends on the orangutan. $22.99, ages 4+, playmonster.com. 70. Pencil Nose: A hilarious game where players have to use their sniffers to sketch the prompt. $24.95, ages 8+, fatbraintoyco.com.

72

73

71

STOCKING STUFFERS & COLLECTIBLES

74

71. Awesome Bloss’ems: Plant a seed and grow your very own doll. $6.99, ages 5+, spinmaster.com. 72. My Singing Monsters Exclusive 3 Pack of Musical Collectible Figures: Sing and harmonize with one another just as they do in the game. $34.99, ages 6+. 73. Pomsies Lumies: These interactive unicorn-like pets change colors to match the object they are sitting on. $19.99, ages 3+, skyrocketon.com.

74. Dragamonz Multipack: Smash and build a dragon army. $9.99, ages 5+, spinmaster.com. 75. Twisty Petz Cuddlez: Transform your animal by pulling the head and tail and now you have a wearable and fashionable boa. $12.99, ages 4+, twistypetz.com. 76. Rainbocorns Sequin Surprise Series 2 Plush: Features a unique gem heart and other surprises. $9.99, ages 3+, zuru.com. 77. Ryan’s World Super Surprise Safe: Push and reveal, smash and surprise, decode and discover all of the amazing surprises inside. $39.99, ages 3+, justplayproducts.com. 78. Pixie Belles: Enchanting interactive pets featuring multiple play modes and a Magnetic Power Pod that lets you attach them to your clothing. $12.99, ages 5+, wowwee.com. 79. Crayola Glitter Dots: Just squish each dot to create glitter-infused outputs for any craft or project. $4.99-$19.99, ages 5+, shop.crayola.com. 80. Shopkins Real Littles: Miniature versions of classic household brands with an iconic matching Shopkin inside. There are 52 miniature versions to collect. $9.99, ages 5+, moosetoys.com. 81. Rainbocorns Big Bow Surprise: Packed with more than 25 layers of fun and a giant cuddly surprise. $49.99, ages 3+, zuru.com. 82. Pinata Fiesta: There’s a party in every piñata. Surprises include charms, bracelets, rings and tons of confetti. $7.99, ages 4+, jakks.com. 83. Blume Doll: These dolls mix imaginative, over-the-top hairstyles with an awesome blooming effect for a surprising toy “reveal.” $9.99, ages 5+, blumedolls.com.

84. TLC Kritters: Take home the incubator and open to reveal which baby animal you’ve received. $9.99, ages 6+, redwood-ventures.com.

85. Dino Smashers Epic Egg: Explore the Jurassic world of the wackiest dinosaurs. $24.99, ages 3+, smashersworld.zuru.com. 86. Hatchimals Pixies: Feature super glittery hair, wiggling wings, poseable heads and sculpted fashion inspired by their Hatchtopia homes. $9.99, ages 5+, hatchimals.com. 87. HairDUDEables BFF 2-Pack: Introducing an all-new #dudesqaud with “big hair don’t care” attitude. $24.99, ages 3+, justplayproducts.com. 88. Jurassic World Snap Squad Assortment: Featuring fan-favorite dinosaurs with mouths that open to snap on to backpacks, lunch bags and more. $4.99, ages 4+.

22 | Family Living at Its Best

December 2019 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 23

100 GIFTeas id

91

90 89

OUTDOOR FUN

92

89. Primo Foldable Lights Fold-Up Scooter: New dual-color, wide deck design and extra-large, wide integrated brakes. $79.99, ages 3+, globber.com. 90. Crazy Bocce: A new take on the classic game with erratic bounces and rolls. $19.99, ages 3+, funsparks.com. 91. Wild Ones: Dino and Unicorn kick scooters designed to help new riders learn to balance and build motor skills. $34.99, 30+ months, razor.com.

92. Kid Trax Rideamals Dino: Tot-sized triceratops featuring multiple types of interactive play: feed, pet, walk and ride. With a maximum speed of 1.5 MPH. $129, 18-30 months, kidtraxtoys.com. 93. Crazy Cart Shift: Features a simplified drift system, small, light frame and a speed control switch. $199.99, ages 6+, razor.com. 94. Free Wheelin’ Rider Sport Convertible Balance Bike: Start off as a 3-wheel push bike, then convert into a 2-wheel balance bike. $59.99, ages 1+, playmonster.com. 95. Fold & Go Rally Racer: Parent-powered and folds in three easy steps. $59.99, ages 1.5- 4, simplay3.com. 96. E-Punk: Electric-powered mini bike. Compact and portable, perfect for rolling and trolling the neighborhood. $159.99, 8+, razor.com. 97. X-Power Dozer: Kids can plow through rocks, dirt, wood, snow and toys. $59.99, ages 6+, jakks.com. 98. Turbo A Black Label: Kick your ride into high gear with this Razor electric scooter hitting speeds of up to 10 mph with up to 25 minutes of continuous riding. $129.99, ages 8+, razor.com. 99. EzyRoller Drifter Pro X: Curve your way longer with X-series seat, accessories and drifting mechanism. $139, ages 10+, ezyroller.com. 100. The Globber One K E-Motion – E10: A fast electric scooter for urban explorers and a fun ride for teens and adults. $299.99, ages 14+, globber.com.

For more product reviews, visit nappaawards.com Angela Gartner, Editor

Northeast Ohio Parent magazine editorial team gift suggestions:

Get Real Gear

“Playing dress-up is something every kid loves to do. However, if your kid is like mine, who really loves firefighters and a ‘toy’ costume is not enough, Get Real Gear has what you need.

Thanks to his grandparents, my 10-year-old son has had different versions (black and tan) and sizes of this firefighter suit, which looks and feels like real bunker gear. The quality of the coat provides the perfect costume for anytime. He has visited fire stations in this gear, which now is filled with sewn-on station patches. It also has become his Halloween costume for several years.

Not interested in firefighters? There’s a lot of different career suits for everyone.” $23-$58, ages 6 months-10 years, aeromaxtoys.com Denise Koeth, Digital Content Manager

Magna-Tiles

“If I had to pick a favorite toy out of those my boys have received over the years, it would be Magna-Tiles, hands down. We’ve spent countless hours playing with these STEM superstars, from building skyscrapers to constructing parking garages for toy cars. The colorful shapes have builtin magnets that make the pieces snap together, resulting in fun, educational play: motor skills, shapes and colors, geometry, engineering and more. Depending on the set, Magna-Tiles can be somewhat pricey, but I have found them to be well worth the investment.” $15-$130, ages 3+, magnatiles.com Brandon Szuminsky, Assistant Editor

Strider Balance Bike

24 | Family Living at Its Best

“The Strider Balance Bike is the best gift my son ever got. Built for little bodies, this pedal-less bike is a perfect way to introduce the concept of balancing on two wheels, which makes the later transition to a ‘real’ pedal bike a breeze. Plus, with adjustable seat and handlebars, it can grow with your child, making it a gift that won’t get shoved in the back of the garage, like tricycles and scooters. The ability to balance on two wheels he learned on the Strider meant that this summer, at age 4, my son easily started riding a pedal bike — without ever needing training wheels.” $89.99, ages 18 months-5 years, striderbikes.com

WINTER BREAK CAMPS AND PROGRAMS Winter Day Camp: Winter Trackers 12/20

Kids ages 7-10 can enjoy this winter adventure with fun, hands-on experiences as they explore the park and look for signs of winter animals. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Liberty Park Nature Center, 9999 Liberty Road, Twinsburg, summitmetroparks.org

Make Believe Camp 12/20-1/3

Kids can explore the “Ballocity� three-story indoor playground, climbing the ropes course, conquering the rock wall, mastering the Ninja Wall, letting loose with bumper cars and more. Make Believe Parma, 8303 Day Drive, Parma. makebelieve parma.com/camp-2

Jr. Lego Robotics Camp 12/21-22, 12/28-29

Students (ages 5-8) will learn how to program computers to do their bidding. Lego Robotics for older kids (ages 8-11) combines Lego building, computer programming, design, teamwork and problem-solving skills in a fun and challenging environment. Math Monkey of Cleveland, 26801 Miles Road, Cleveland, mathmonkey cleveland.com/winter-camps

Winter Break Camp 12/23-1/3

Kids can spend their winter break enjoying gym games, swimming, rock wall climbing and much more. Ages 5-14. Bath, Stow and Green Health & Wellness Centers, myclevelandclinic.org

Winter Vacation Camp 12/23-1/3

Come for jam-packed, J-Day Camps-style fun with swimming, gym time, arts and crafts, movies and a field trip to the Great Lakes Science Center.

Mandell JCC of Cleveland, 26001 S. Woodland Road, Beachwood, mandeljcc.org

Winter Break at Winter Camp JCC 12/23-1/3

Field trips, swimming, movies, arts, crafts, games and more.

Shaw JCC of Akron, 750 White Pond Dr., Akron, shawjcc.org

Camp Curiosity 12/26-27, 12/30-31 & 1/2-3

Get the kids to put down their screens and gadgets over winter break with a hands-on, interactive Camp Curiosity science camp at Great Lakes Science Center. 601 Erieside Ave., Cleveland, 216-694-2000, greatscience.com

Winter Break Art Camp at Busy Bees Pottery 12/27

Busy Bees Winter Art Camp is a three- hour long camp where kids (age 5 and older) will create various art projects ranging from painted pottery to glass fusing to canvas painting. They will learn new mediums and new techniques as they create fun winter and non-winter themed projects. 12/27 from 9 a.m.noon; 12/30 from 9 a.m.-noon.

440-571-5201 mentor. busybeesart.com

Ghostly Manor Thrill Center in Sandusky Have a very merry holiday this year with a visit to Ghostly Manor Thrill Center in Sandusky. Every Wednesday features a $5 deal which includes a meet and greet with Santa Claus, roller skating, bounce houses, jungle gym and two slices of pizza and a drink. Pull up and park any night of the week and tune into 99.7 FM and enjoy their free unbelievably magical Christmas Light Show.

3319 Milan Road Sandusky,

419-626-4467

visit ghostlymanor.com

Creative Play Days at Lake Erie Ink 12/30 & 1/2

Fire up your creativity over holiday break and attend a morning of activities. Cozy up for hot cocoa, writing and art.

9 a.m.-noon. Lake Erie Ink, 2843 Washington Blvd., Cleveland Hts., lakeerieink.org

For more fun ideas of things to do during winter break, visit NortheastOhioParent.com

Winter Break Camp 12/30-31 & 1/2-3

Children ages 5-10 will explore the zoo, focusing on how active our animals are during the winter and what we do to keep them comfortable year round.

Get-Close encounters with small animals, arts and crafts and conservation-themed games and stories. Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, 3900 Wildlife Way, 216-635-3391, clevelandmetroparks.com/zoo

School Break Day Camp 12/30, 1/2-3

Ages 7-14 enjoy mini art camps of Mixed Media Adventure, Figure Drawing and Paint Exploration.

Half- or full-day sessions. Akron Art Works, 1720 Merriman Road, Studio A, Akron, akronartworks.com

December 2019 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 25

Holiday Happenings PICK YOUR DAY FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS

Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides.

Step into a vintage white carriage and take a ride through the beautiful Gervasi estate. 6-9 p.m. 1700 55th St. NE, Canton, gervasivineyard.com

FRIDAYSSUNDAYS

Scuba Claus. See Scuba Claus dive in 230,000 gallons of water and ask him questions while he visits a porcupine pufferfish, green moray eel, goliath grouper and other aquatic friends. 1 p.m. Greater Cleveland Aquarium, 2000 Sycamore St., Cleveland, 216-862-8803, greaterclevelandaquarium.com

SATURDAYS

Elf Labs: Fun with Santa. A team of exuberant elves will escort your children through six unique stations where they will experience the magic of Christmas.

Through 12/14. Castle Noel, 260 S. Court St., Medina, castlenoel.com

❅

❄

SATURDAYS & SUNDAYS

Breakfast with Santa at Merwin’s Wharf. Enjoy breakfast with Santa at Merwin’s

26 | Family Living at Its Best

Wharf every Saturday and Sunday through 12/22. 1785 Merwin Ave., Cleveland, 216-664-5696, clevelandmetroparks.com Breakfast with Santa.

Includes breakfast, entrance to the Akron Children’s Museum, ice skating, skate rental, photo with Santa and more. 9:30-11:30 a.m. Lock 3, 200 S. Main St., Akron, lock3live.com

SUNDAYS

Sunday Brunch with Santa.

Bring in the family to meet Santa while enjoying a delicious brunch spread this holiday season on Sundays 12/8-22. Pinstripes, 111 Park Ave., Orange Village, 216415-8010, pinstripes.com

Ongoing THROUGH 12/8

Ballet Theatre of Ohio presents ‘The Nutcracker.’ This classic has become a treasured holiday tradition for families of all ages.

Akron Civic Theatre, 182 S. Main St., 330-253-2488, akroncivic.com

THROUGH 12/23

Country Lights. Live lighted trees deck the halls that lead to Santa’s Workshop and the Little Elf Corner. Take a wagon to see operating model trains, farm animals and holiday horses.

4:45-9 p.m. Lake Metroparks Farmpark, 8800 Euclid Chardon Road, Kirtland, 440-256-2122, lakemetroparks.com

Elf on the Library Shelf. The silly Elf on the Library Shelf will be back for some mischievous fun. Come in each day to try and find him and win a prize if you do. Mentor Public Library, 8215 Mentor Ave., 440-255-8811, mentorpl.org ‘A Christmas Story.’ The record-breaking show returns to the Cleveland Playhouse stage in all its pink-bunny-suit, glowing-leg-lamp, triple-dog-daring glory. Allen Theatre at Playhouse Square, 1407 Euclid Ave., clevelandplayhouse.com Holiday Lantern Tours. Take a charming lantern-lit tour of the village and visit historic houses delightfully decorated for the season. Hale Farm & Village, 2686 Oak Hill Road, Bath, 3 30-666-3711, wrhs.org Festival of Trees. Get into the spirit of the season with this beloved annual holiday tradition.

Allen Theatre at Playhouse Square, 1407 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, playhousesquare.org

THROUGH 12/24

Santa’s House at Crocker Park.

Take a photo with Santa Claus, sit in Santa’s sleigh, walk through Toy Train Town and shop at the Polar X ornament and gift shop.

Santa’s Village, 228 Market St., Westlake, crockerpark.com Kringle’s Inventionasium. Treat your family to an unforgettable holiday adventure and create memories that will last a lifetime.

230 W. Huron Road, Cleveland, 855-675-7464, mrkringle.com

THROUGH 12/30

Wild Lights at Akron Zoo. Come enjoy the wildest lighting display this holiday season. Nearly the entire zoo will be decorated, and several animals will be out. Akron Zoo, 505 Euclid Ave., Akron, 330375-2550, akronzoo.org Deck the Hall 2019: A Classic Comic Hero Christmas. Nineteen rooms in the Manor House will be themed with the stories of classic comic heroes. Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, 714 N. Portage Path, Akron, 330-836-5533, stanhywet.org

❆

Holiday Lights. From walking the decorated “holiday movie & song themed” half-mile paved trail and riding the Holiday Express to heading inside to enjoy a night-specific activity, there is plenty of entertainment for you and your family. Carlisle Reservation, 12882 Diagonal Road, LaGrange Township, metroparks.cc

THROUGH 1/1

Bethlehem Hills Christmas Light Park. The magic and wonder of the Christmas season is captured at this new 1.25-mile drive-through park on 240 acres featuring 40 spectacular light displays. Berkshire Hills Golf Course, 9760 Mayfield Road, Chesterland, 440-862-4735, bethlehemhillslights.fun

❆

THROUGH 1/4

Glow. This annual event transports you to a world full of seasonal cheer, where all-new wonders and returning traditions await you.

Cleveland Botanical Garden, 11030 East Blvd., Cleveland, 216-721-1600, cbgarden.org

THROUGH 1/5

Wild Winter Lights. Wild Winter Lights will feature more than a dozen diverse and interactive zones including Snow Safari, Glacier Glade and Santa’s North Pole Lodge. Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, 3900 Wildlife Way, 216-635-3391, clevelandmetroparks.com/zoo.

THROUGH 2/17

The Rink at Wade Oval. Lace up your skates and enjoy the fresh ice on picturesque Wade Oval. 10820 East Blvd., Cleveland, universitycircle.org

day - by - day 12/1

Wildwood Holiday Display & Craft Show. Live entertainment and a huge variety of fine arts and crafts. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Wildwood Cultural Center & Park, 7645 Little Mountain Road, Mentor, 440-974-5735, cityofmentor.com

12/3 & 12/10

Baby Christmas Ornament. Press baby’s feet or hands into salt dough to create an awesome holiday ornament and then decorate them. 9 a.m. Morley Library, 184 Phelps St., Painesville, 440-352-3383, morleylibrary.org

12/5-23

‘A Christmas Story.’ He’s back! One boy, one holiday wish and a world that seems to be conspiring to make certain it doesn’t come true. Cleveland Play House, Allen Theatre, 1407 Euclid Ave., clevelandplayhouse.com

12/5-29

‘Black Nativity.’ A Karamu Classic. Langston Hughes’ famed retelling of the Nativity Story, performed in a gospel style and including popular Christmas carols. Karamu House, 2355 E. 89th St., Cleveland, karamuhouse.org

12/6

Multicultural Holiday Celebration. International performances, culture, food, fashion, music, community resource tables and more.

6-10 p.m. Cuyahoga Community College, Metropolitan Campus Center, 2900 Community College Ave., Cleveland, icc-win.org

12/6-12/22

‘A Christmas Carol.’ Christmas would not be complete without Charles Dickens’ classic tale.

French Creek Theatre, 4530 Colorado Ave., Sheffield Village, metroparks.cc/theatre.php - CONTINUED ON PAGE 28 -

December 2019 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 27

Holiday Happenings 12/7

Light Up Lakewood. Free family-friendly event on Detroit Avenue featuring a holiday parade, lighting ceremony, winter fireworks, live music, ice carvings and more. 4-8 p.m. 14701 Detroit Ave., Lakewood, lakewoodalive.com Festival of Lights. Kent’s winter wonderland will include a visit from Santa, the Dickens Carolers, horsedrawn wagon rides, extended business hours and more. 5:308:30 p.m. Hometown Bank Plaza, Gazebo and Main Street Bridge, Kent, kentbiz.com Elf School. Instruction in toy making, cookie decorating and all things “elfish.” 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. Avon Lake Public Library, 32649 Electric Blvd., 440-933-8128, alpl.org Christmas on the Canal. Stroll through the streets of historic downtown Canal Fulton, visit Santa, see an electric lights

28 | Family Living at Its Best

parade and more. Noon-6 p.m.

125 Tuscarawas St., Canal Fulton, 330-854-6835, cityofcanalfulton-oh.gov Family Program: Holiday Open House. Celebrate the holidays at the library. Magic Bob will entertain with magic and balloon creations.

10 a.m.-3 p.m. Kenmore Branch, 969 Kenmore Blvd., Akron, akronlibrary.org Old-Fashioned Christmas. Enjoy product demos, food samples, live music and children’s activities at this annual fun-for-all-ages event.

Find the perfect gift for everyone on your list. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Lehman’s, 4779 Kidron Road, Dalton, lehmans.com Downtown River’s Holiday Walk.

This family day of holiday activities, shop promotions, food and fun has become a tradition for Downtown River’s visitors from near and far. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Old Detroit Road, Rocky River, rrcity.com

Lunch with Santa at the Bistro.

Visit Gervasi Vineyard for some lunch and meet the man in red.

11 a.m.-3 p.m. Gervasi Vineyard, 1700 55th Street NE, Canton, gervasivineyard.com

Live Nativity on The Green. A live nativity with animals and characters. 10:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

Clocktower Green, 27 E. Main St., Hudson, 330-653-8230, hudson.oh.us

Greens for Giving. Join this make-and-give event to create evergreen decorations for Geauga County Department on Aging’s home-delivered meals for seniors. Noon-3 p.m.

The West Woods, 9465 Kinsman Road, Russell Township, 440286-9516, geaugaparkdistrict.org

12/8

Santa on the Green. Ushered into town in a shiny red fire engine, Santa and Mrs. Claus welcome all the good girls and boys to the gazebo on the green.

9 a.m.-3 p.m. firstandmainhudson.com/play

12/7-8

The Polar Express Sleepover & Breakfast with Santa. Spend a magical Christmas weekend with your family with a movie in the evening and wake up to breakfast with Santa from 8-10 a.m. Springhill Suites

By Marriott, 30100 Aurora Road, Solon, eventbrite. com

❄

Hudson Holiday Walk. Horse and carriage rides, kids’ activities, caroling and more. Bring a new unwrapped toy and help Stuff the Humvee with the Northeast Ohio Foundation for Patriotism to assist local military families. Noon-5 p.m. firstandmainhudson.com Pet Photos with Santa.

Noon-5 p.m. Paws by the Lake, 33757 Lake Road, Avon Lake, loveastraydog.com

Christmas on Hoover Farm.

Visit with Santa, hear live music, watch ladies in vintage attire baking cookies, and hear Christmas carols on a horse-drawn wagon. 1-4 p.m. Hoover Park, 1875 E. Maple St., North Canton, 330-244-4667, walsh.edu Magic Toyshop Story Time Yoga. Bring holiday toys to life through imaginative yoga poses and a Christmas story.

For children ages 3-6 years with a caregiver. 2-3 p.m. Twinsburg Public Library, 10050 Ravenna Road, 330-425-4268, twinsburglibrary.org Holiday CircleFest. Circle-wide celebration with activities, entertainment and a procession led by community lantern artists, illuminated dancers and giant puppets. 1-5 p.m. The Cleveland Museum of Art, 11150 East Blvd., 216-707-2483, clevelandart.org

❅

❄

❅

Holiday Happenings Hands-On Holiday. Enjoy holiday characters, art workshops, kids dance party, games, interactive session, music and more. 11 a.m.4 p.m. Akron Children’s Museum, 216 S. Main St., akronkids.org

12/8, 15 & 22

Sunday Brunch with Santa. Bring the family to meet Santa while enjoying a delicious brunch, plus bowling and bocce. Kids can a photo with Santa and make requests from their holiday wish lists. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Pinstripes, 111 Park Ave, Ste. 105, Orange Village, pinstripes.com/cleveland-ohio

Doggy Howliday in the Park.

Bring your dog-friendly pooch to celebrate the holiday season. Enter the dog sweater contest, take a picture with your pooch, or join your fellow canine lovers for a hike. 10 a.m.

Towner’s Woods, Switch Tower, 2264 Ravenna Road, Kent, portageparkdistrict.org

12/14-15

Breakfast with Blitzen. Enjoy breakfast, visit with Santa and one of his favorite reindeer and take a guided hike while sipping on hot chocolate. 9 a.m-noon. Holden Arboretum, 9500 Sperry Road, Kirtland, 440-946-4400, holdenarb.org

The Uniquely Cleveland Nutcracker. Dancers from Verb Ballets and other guest artists will join City Ballet of Cleveland to whisk audience members away to a magical land of a young girl’s dreams.

Breen Center for Performing Arts, 2008 W. 30th St., Cleveland, 216-848-9088, cityballetofcleveland.org

12/12

Frosty Fest. Chill out with the Snow Queen and her sister with some winter family fun and cookie decorating. 6 p.m. Medina County District Library, 210 S. Broadway St., 330-725-0588, mcdl.info

12/13

Solstice with Santa. Take a lantern hike, create a craft, make a special treat for wildlife in your backyard, encounter live animals and visit the Planetarium to learn about the solstice. 6-8:30 p.m. Lake Erie Nature & Science Center, 28728 Wolf Road, Bay Village, lensc.org Meet and Greet with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Meet Santa and Mrs. Claus to tell them what you want for Christmas. 6 p.m. Bainbridge Library, 17222 Snyder Road, Chagrin Falls, 440-543-5611, geaugalibrary.net

12/13-16

A Christmas Cabaret. The annual holiday treat is back. The show isn’t complete until everyone joins in on “White Christmas.”

12/13-14 Stocker Arts Center, Lorain County Community College, 1005 N. Abbe Road, Elyria. 12/15-16 Nighttown, 12383 Cedar Road, Cleveland Hts. musicaltheaterproject.org

12/14

North Pole Tea Party. You don’t have to be from the North Pole to love a sweet treat, and nothing sweetens up the holidays like cookies. 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Old Colony Farm, 3283 Foskett Road, Medina, oldcolonyfarm.com North Pole Meet and Greet. Meet furry and sweet North Pole reindeer. While Santa’s busy this time of year, you can meet the charming Mrs. Claus and enjoy live music. 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. Lehman’s, 4779 Kidron Road, Dalton, lehmans.com Splash Party. Celebrate the holidays with a Dive-In Movie, swimming, crafts and cookies with milk. There may even be a special visitor from the North Pole. 5:30 p.m. Splash Zone, 95 West Hamilton Road, Oberlin, metroparks.cc

- CONTINUED ON PAGE 30 -

December 2019 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 29

❄

Holiday Happenings ❅

12/15

‘Elf.’ Join in for a showing of the movie “Elf” presented by Wayside Furniture. 2 p.m. Akron Civic Theatre, 182 S. Main St., Akron, 330-5353179, akroncivic.com Holiday Family Skate. Welcome the holiday season and spend quality time with your family at this fun event. 1:30-3:30 p.m. Mentor Civic Ice Arena, 8600 Munson Road, Mentor, cityofmentor.com Kid’s Shopping Afternoon & ‘Polar Express’ Pajama Party Movie. Bring your little ones in to pick out special gifts for the family.

Cocoa, cookies and free gift wrapping from 1-3 p.m. then from 3-5 p.m. cozy up for a movie. BAYarts, 28795 Lake Road, Bay Village, bayarts.net Jingle Bell Run/Walk for Arthritis. Be one of the thousands of runners and walkers who hit the nation’s pavements, pathways and parks this winter to fight arthritis, the nation’s most common cause of disability. 8:30 a.m.

Legacy Village, 25001 Cedar Rd, Lyndhurst, legacy-village.com

12/17

Broken Ornaments: A Holiday Concert with An Impulse Towards Destruktion. This is the inaugural winter warmer with some dear old holiday favorites with an exotic flair. 8-10:30 p.m. BOP STOP at The Music Settlement, 2920 Detroit Ave., Cleveland, themusicsettlement.org Pet Photos with Santa. Bring your favorite furry friend for a photo with Santa. 5:30-8:30 p.m. Legacy Village, 25001 Cedar Rd, Lyndhurst, legacy-village.com

30 | Family Living at Its Best

SENSORY - FRIENDLY

12/3, 5 & 7

Nutcracker Dreams. Enjoy the story and music of Tchaikovsky’s famous, beloved Nutcracker ballet. 4 p.m. Chardon Branch Library, 110 E. Park St., 440-285-7601, divi.geaugalibrary.net

12/20

Hanukkah Rock Shabbat. Come for a rockin’ good time. 6:15-7:15 p.m. Temple Israel, 91 Springside Drive, Akron, jewishakron.org

12/21

Super Science Saturday: A Dinosaur Christmas. Take a look at the frozen world of paleontology that will keep dinosaurs present for the most wonderful time of the year. 10:30 a.m. Akron Fossils & Science Center, 2080 S. Cleveland Massillon Road, Copley, 330665-3466, akronfossils.com

12/22

Chanukah Candle Lighting.

Celebrate the Jewish holiday of Chanukah, also known as the miracle of lights, which historically took place in Jerusalem.

Hear the story, sing traditional songs and make holiday crafts.

1:30-3 p.m. Maltz Museum of Jewish Heritage, 2929 Richmond Road, Beachwood, 216-593-0575, maltzmuseum.org

12/4

Sensory Friendly Santa. A Santa morning visit for families with special needs, autism/sensory integration challenges. 10 a.m.-noon.

Brunswick Library, 3649 Center Road, 330-273-4150, mcdl.info

12/7

Christmas Party. Enjoy fellowship, fun, food, games and a special appearance by St. Nick. 1-3 p.m. St. Rita School, 33200 Baldwin Road, Solon, 440-248-1350, stritaparish.com

12/9

Santa’s Wild Workshop For Kids with Sensory or Developmental Disabilities. Make a toy, ride the Wildwood Express, see outdoor displays, visit with Santa and dec-

12/13

BLAST Holiday Dinner & Dance.

An evening of fun for people with developmental disabilities. 6-8:30 p.m. Temple Israel, 91 Springside Drive, Akron, summitdd.org

12/14

‘The Nutcracker Ballet’ Sensory-Friendly Performance. To provide a supportive and welcoming environment for children and families, performance includes reduction of loud or jarring sounds, flashing or strobe lights, and modification of the house lights.

2-4 p.m. Lorain Palace Theatre, 617 Broadway, Lorain, 440-723-8598, northpointballet.org Adapted Holiday Workshop. Build your own wooden toy to paint and decorate with your own personal elf at this fun and festive afternoon for individuals with disabilities.

3-4:30 p.m. Lake Metroparks Farmpark, 8800 Euclid Chardon Road, Kirtland, 440-256-2122, lakemetroparks.com

12/15

Respite Night. Children with special needs and their siblings are invited for supervised activities, pizza and fun while parents and caretakers take a break from their everyday lives. 1-3 p.m. Fairview Park Recreation Ctr., 21225 Lorain Road, activityreg.com

12/17

Holiday Toddler Sensory Play.

Families with children ages 2 to 4 years old are invited for messy and creative holiday fun. 10:30 a.m.

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

12/24

Soothing Santa. An opportunity for children with autism and other special needs and their siblings to visit with Santa in a more calm and sensory-friendly environment before the mall opens. 8-10 a.m.

Belden Village Mall, 4220 Belden Village St. NW, Canton, shoppingbeldenvillagemall.com

❆

❅

12/19

Adapted Polar Express Train Rides. The Autism Society of Greater Akron has partnered with the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad to offer an Autism Friendly Polar Express. Departs from Rockside Station, 7900 Old Rockside Road, Independence, autismakron.org

orate cookies. 2-4 p.m. Wildwood Cultural Center & Park, 7645 Little Mountain Road, Mentor, 440-9745735, cityofmentor.com

❄

HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS

12/23

Menorah Lighting Ceremony.

Family and friends are welcome to this special Chanukah celebration which will include the traditional foods including latkes, jelly donuts, activities and much more. 6-8 p.m. 28699 Chagrin Blvd., Woodmere, etonchagrinblvd.com

12/25

Annual Christmas Day CanCan. Bring a canned donation and/or pay what you can toward museum admission. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Maltz Museum of Jewish Heritage, 2929 Richmond Road, Beachwood, 216-593-0575, maltzmuseum.org

December 2019 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 31

p

Queue u

y a d i l o H e Th Classics

t

ovie Nigh

ily M for a Fam

EVERYONE WILL ENJOY THESE MOVIES THAT CAPTURE THE SPIRIT OF THE SEASON

By Rini Jeffers

T

he holidays are a delight for the senses.

The scent of pine trees and smells of baking, lights aglow, cold weather, the taste of cookies — and watching holiday movies with the family. No matter what your tastes, here are some great ways to get you started. Bring on the popcorn and the cocoa, put on your fuzziest jammies and settle in for a winter’s night.

BEGIN WITH CLASSICS

Great for watching after the annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, “Miracle on 34th Street” (1947), takes place from Thanksgiving to Christmas, when a little girl is skeptical of a department store Santa, Kris Kringle, who claims to be the real thing. The movie was remade in 1994 and in various stage and television productions, but the original is still the best.

For many people, the yuletide season doesn’t begin until you watch classic flicks such as “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” (1964), “Frosty the Snowman” (1969), “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” (1966) or “A Charlie Brown Christmas” (1965).

Weeknights while school is still in session are perfect for Rudolph, the Peanuts gang and Frosty. They’re short, usually in rotation on television and the timeless themes still hold up for children of all ages. Rudolph knows what it’s like to be bullied and left out. Charlie Brown sees the beauty in a pitiful, unpicked tree.

Plus, you can let the kiddos make their own beautiful tree out of pine scraps or construction paper trees, strung with popcorn and paper garlands.

Also, don’t overlook the original Grinch movie, with its delightful narration by Boris Karloff and a wizened old heart that grew three times bigger when exposed to kindness. A new animated version was just released last year and

32 | Family Living at Its Best

is closer in tone to the original than the live-action 2000 remake starring Jim Carrey.

Or perhaps you’re more in the mood for the more adult-oriented, slightly skewed comedy of “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” (1989) or “Scrooged” (1988)? Or maybe the fantastical-but-a-little-odd animation of “The Polar Express” (2004)? Or the old school standards like “White Christmas” (1954) or “It’s A Wonderful Life” (1946)?

Treat your kids to the vintage wonder of Jim Henson with “The Muppets Christmas Carol” (1992) while learning the classic Charles Dickens’ story — only with fur, frogs and rats. While perhaps not as well known, Henson may even have topped his “Christmas Carol” with “Emmet Otter’s Jug-Band Christmas” (1977). This riff on the “Gift of the Magi” tale is told with otters and an endearing soundtrack. (Plus, a remake is in the works, so you can be ahead of the curve.)

Younger children might get a kick out of making their own “Muppets” with sock puppets and singing along.

Maybe your family’s favorite is the original “Home Alone” (1990) or the insta-classic “Elf ” (2003)? Laugh along with the exuberant manchild played by Will Ferrell, whose innocence is topped only by his unabashed love of Christmas.

The bravest in your family can then challenge each other to try spaghetti with syrup or make elaborate 3-D snowflakes or troop outside for impromptu snowball fights.

WANT TO GET OUT OF THE HOUSE?

“The Polar Express” is on the big screen on Dec. 14 at 1 p.m. at Regal Crocker Park and IMAX, 30147 Detroit Rd., Westlake. Tickets are $5. Visit regmovies.com.

“A Charlie Brown Christmas: Live on Stage” brings classic characters to life on Dec. 10 at 7 p.m. at the Agora Theatre, 5000 Euclid Ave.,

Cleveland. Tickets are $25 to $50. Visit agoracleveland.com.

“National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” on the big screen, as intended, followed by a chat with star and ‘80s comedy legend Chevy Chase.

Dec. 20 at 7 p.m. at Akron Civic Theatre, 182 S. Main St., Akron. Tickets are $39 to $69 and VIP tickets are $200. Visit akroncivic.com.

EXPERIENCE A CLEVELAND CLASSIC

There is no shortage of ways to experience “A Christmas Story” in Cleveland. There’s Ralphie’s iconic house — well, technically, the house used for exterior and some interior scenes of Ralphie’s house — at 3159 W. 11th St. that is the year-round “A Christmas Story” House Museum, where you can take a tour, wear the oversized bunny pajamas, see memorabilia and even stay the night. The owners also now give tours of the next door Bumpus House, the home of the smelly, Christmas-dinner-turkey-stealiing hounds. Visit achristmasstoryhouse.com.

The live stage show of “A Christmas Story,” also is an annual Cleveland tradition, is running through Dec. 23 at the Allen Theatre, 1407 Euclid Ave. Tickets are $20 to $97. Visit playhousesquare.org.

Of course, you can always stay home and watch the movie during the annual 24-hour cable marathon over Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Order Chinese takeout and celebrate with a Nerf war so nobody will get their “eye shot out.”

HOLIDAY STREAM

Get on Netflix and chill with “Klaus,” an animated tale of a postal worker who is banished to the North Pole where he meets a gruff-seeming toymaker, Mr. Klaus. It was released in November and it will have a limited run in theaters.

December 2019 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 33

FAMILY

Cooking Easy ways to team up with your kids in the kitchen Story by Jen Picciano Photography by Angela Gartner

34 | Family Living at Its Best

N

ew devices may be at the top of your kids’ wish lists this season, and you may be regrettably attached to yours, but put ‘em down. Get ahead of your inevitable New Year’s resolution to unplug (well, except for small kitchen appliances) and get busy cooking with your kids.

Grandma’s Cookbook

Take a trip down memory lane and dig up some old family recipes. Once in a while, especially around the holidays, it’s nice to thumb through treasured family cookbooks and recipe collections.

My Slovenian grandma left me some wonderful ethnic cookbooks, and those smells and tastes are so familiar. Her chicken liver dumpling soup, roast beef and buttery rolls…mmmm. It’s fun to try and recreate those flavors. My dad’s mother made great pies: pumpkin, lemon meringue, strawberry rhubarb.

Roll out some dough and share some memories.

Noodle Fun

Build a pasta bar and let everyone make it their own.

Cook short and long pasta and offer up two or three sauce options — say, red sauce, white and garlic and olive oil, perhaps. When it comes to sauces, keep it simple and make one from scratch, then buy one from some of the great local chefs who jar their recipes. (I like Dante Boccuzzi’s and Ohio City Pasta.) Think making your own sauce is too much work? Garlic and olive oil is as simple as it sounds.

Invite your kids to do some of the prep work. For the younger ones, try the kid-safe nylon knives from Curious Chef. Have them rough chop red pepper, broccoli, onion, tomato, spinach, mushrooms, etc. You can sauté up some shrimp, chicken and sausage, all with a blend of Italian seasoning and let them choose their own protein. Have them build a bowl then toss it with their sauce of their choice.

“ Cooking and baking are my favorite

ways to bond with my three daughters.”

December 2019 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 35

“

I’ve always found that kids are more likely to eat what they’ve helped prepare, so this is always a great way to outsmart picky eaters.

36 | Family Living at Its Best

“

Sweet Edible Gifts

For a sweeter but messy experience, try making candy with the kids. You can create boxes or gift bags of treats to give to teachers, neighbors and friends. Head to a cake and candy supply shop for a few molds and chocolate wafers. Chocolate-covered pretzels are also a super easy crowd pleaser. It’s a combination of arts and crafts, baking and a whole lot of fun.

I dare you not to lick your fingers.

Storybook Menu

Make something inspired by a favorite book or story. We’re fond of the book “Stone Soup,” where three hungry soldiers find a clever way to get the villagers to share their food and create a soup that feeds the whole town. Try your hand at your own stone soup and teach the value of sharing. Start with some broth and throw in various vegetables, noodles or proteins you might have around the house.

My girls love the “Fancy Nancy” series and all that it implies, like dressing up and tea parties. Make tea sandwiches and small muffins or cookies and have a tea party. “Dragons Love Tacos” is another one of our favorites — and, no, tacos shouldn’t be limited to Tuesdays.

Empower Kids With Cooking

Cooking and baking are my favorite way to bond with my three daughters. They feel empowered when they learn a new skill, even if it’s as simple as cleanly cracking an egg. They are even more pleased when they can build on those simple skills, like learning to make their own scrambled eggs for breakfast. And they’re proud to present a complete dish that they’ve helped make. Bonus: I’ve always found that kids are more likely to eat what they’ve helped prepare, so this is always a great way to outsmart picky eaters.

Jen Picciano is an Emmy-winning reporter at WOIO-TV, Cleveland 19 News. Each week she dons an apron and gets messy in the kitchen with chefs all over the city to produce and host a cooking segment, Cleveland Cooks, for Cleveland 19 News. She also produces and hosts a weekly video podcast, Taste Buds, with local chefs Matt Mytro and David Kocab (available through WOIO), and appears on WQAL 104.1FM each week on “The Cleveland Feed,” to share the city’s latest food and dining news. She is also a regular contributor to the television station’s morning talk show, Sunny Side Up, and a special projects reporter there. In her “spare” time she writes a blog, Cheftovers, to showcase her clever use of leftovers and share her foodie adventures. She resides in Mayfield Heights with her husband and three daughters.

December 2019 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 37

t Fa s o H

m

ilies

Explore the World with your Child — Without Leaving the House

International hosting opportunity brings culture and curiosity to area homes

By Shana O’Malley-Smith

Scott and Cheree Aspelin of Shaker Heights have hosted dinners for international visitors from Pakistan. The trip theme was “Promoting Peace and Tolerance Among Educated Youth.“ Photo courtesy of Scott Aspelin

38 | Family Living at Its Best

T

hroughout the year, the Cleveland Council on World Affairs hosts a number of international groups from countries around the world.

As part of the program, CCWA relies on local volunteers to open up their homes and host international guests for an evening for dinner or for a short overnight stay so they can experience a traditional American home.

In 2019, Marissa Siebert and Alesya of Belarus at “Belarusian Day.” Alesya and her colleagues hosted a party for all of the host families where they shared Belarusian music, dance, culture and cuisine.

Photo courtesy of Marissa Siebert

The local volunteers have a lot to gain from the short visits, says Katie Ferman, senior program officer for international visitor programs at Cleveland Council of World Affairs “Just the act of sitting down at the dinner table, sharing a meal and conversation with someone from another culture or country or ethnicity can open your world view up tremendously,” she says.

These experiences give international guests a chance to learn about family culture in the United States, and they don’t have to be elaborate. Guests don’t mind tagging along to the grocery store or a sporting event or just watching American movies and dining in at home, says Marissa Seibert, who has hosted for the past three years.

“There’s really no standard experience that you need to provide for your guests when they come,” Seibert says. “For us, we enjoy doing touristy things in our own town, going to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the zoo and things like that.”

While the main goal is to provide international visitors with the chance to learn about American culture, there’s also many benefits for the local host families.

“My husband and I really like traveling and it’s hard to travel when you have young children,” Siebert says.

“We have a 4-year-old and a 1-year-old and it’s not as easy to travel as it was before we had children. In hosting, we found was an opportunity to ‘travel’ but not have to leave your home. You get to learn about culture and language and customs without leaving, so I think that was an amazing benefit of hosting.”

Scott and Cheree Aspelin of Shaker Heights have done both overnight hosting as well as several dinner parties over the last few years. In doing so, they’ve managed to expose their family to parts of the world they’d never have been able to visit in person.

“We’ve probably done eight or nine a year and we’ve had 35 countries represented here,” Scott Aspelin says.

- Continued on page 40 -

December 2019 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 39

“We can only travel so much in a year, so hosting is a really cool opportunity to bring the world to us.”

Top: In 2018, Paulina of Mexico and the Siebert family at the Asian Lantern Festival at the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. Below: In 2017, Denise of Mexico, Siebert and her son Bobby at the Cleveland History Center.

Connecting with people from other countries and other cultures brings many different topics to the dinner table, but host families say most of the time they realize they’re not as different from their visitors as they think.

“When we sit around the table together and we eat a meal together, we realize we have so much in common,” Cheree Aspelin says. “Everybody wants their family to be healthy and happy and wants an education and so it’s just fun to discover that every time people come.”

Photos courtesy of Marissa Siebert

Hosting isn’t just for adults, kids at home can also get into the fun of entertaining international guests, Cheree Aspelin says.

“Our son is a sophomore in high school, and he has a huge map of the world on one of his bedroom walls, and one of the things that he does when we have an international visitor is he gives them a tour of our house,” she says. “There’s always a stop around the map in his room. If they’re Spanish speakers, he practices his Spanish and gives his little tour in Spanish.”

Even if you don’t speak the same language, children are especially curious and find ways to engage international visitors, Siebert says.

urtesy of

Scott Asp

elin

“Young kids just want to play and be silly and it doesn’t really matter what language is being spoken,” Siebert says. “Bobby, my 4-year-old, doesn’t speak Russian and Alesya doesn’t speak English but yet they could play and goof around or play with different toys around the house or point at books and tell each other what the words were in each other’s languages.”

Photo co

Thanks to social media, many host families are able to keep in touch with their international guests and some even get the chance to go and visit them in their native country.

Above: Scott and Cheree Aspelin of Shaker Heights host dinners for international visitors from Panama, Peru, Honduras. The trip theme was “Transparency and Accountability.” Left: In 2008, Paulina of Mexico and Siebert’s son Bobby.

The Aspelins’ son, for example, recently visited Taiwan with a group from CCWA and got to meet up with Taiwanese friends he had made when they previously visited his home in the U.S. Siebert says she hopes hosting will help her two young sons develop a lifelong curiosity for other cultures.

“They’re a little young to understand it now, but I think it’s planting the seed in their minds that opening your door to people who are different than you is important and fulfilling,” she says.

“I hope it sparks their curiosity about travel and language learning and also exposes them to service to others.”

For more information about becoming a host family, visit ccwa.org.

Photo courtesy

rt

of Marissa Siebe

40 | Family Living at Its Best

DECEMBER CAlenDAR Find more events at NortheastOhioParent.com

12/12 Our Picks al Season Science

Pick your DAY

THURSDAYS

After School Anime Awesomeness. Hang out with other teens and watch some shows. Feel free to draw, chat and have an “anime-zing” time. 3:30-4:30 p.m. Willowick Public Library, 263 E. 305th St., 440-943-4151, we247.org Girls’ Got Swag. Girls in fifth to eighth grade learn how to design and create fashion, work closely with mentors and build lasting friendships. 4-5:30 p.m. Oaks Family Care Ctr., 4196 Center Road, Brunswick, oaks-family-care.org

The Science of Cookies.

Discover the science behind how cookies work and why they are so delicious through hands-on experiments. 4-5 p.m. Chardon Branch Library, 110 E. Park St., 440-285-7601, divi.geaugalibrary.net

FRIDAYS

STEM Pop Up Program. Learn about chemical reactions, launching rockets or maybe mixing colors and exploring light. 2 p.m. Children’s Museum Cleveland, 3813 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, cmcleveland.org

Ongoing

THROUGH 12/15

‘Annie.’ Everyone’s favorite orphan returns to the stage for the holiday season, delighting families with Charles Strouse’s classic songs, including the enduring ballad “Tomorrow.”

Chagrin Valley Little Theatre, 40 River Street, Chagrin Falls, 440247-8955, cvlt.org

12/17

3D Paper Snowflake Engineering. Build a giant snowflake and put it on display at home for the winter. For grades two and up. 6:30-7:30 p.m. Highland Library, 4160 Ridge Road, Medina, 330-2392674, mcdl.info

THROUGH 12/22

‘Tonic Tomte & the Trolls.’ A tale of Sweden by Eric Cable.

Talespinner Children’s Theatre, 5209 Detroit Ave., Cleveland, 216-264-9680, talespinnerchildrenstheatre.org ‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.’ The Biblical saga of Joseph and his coat of many colors vibrantly comes to life in this delightful musical parable. Weathervane Playhouse, 1301 Weathervane Lane, Akron, 330-836-2626, weathervaneplayhouse.com

12/30

Retro-Techno Touch and Feel. Step back in time and explore the technology of yesteryear. Type a note on a typewriter, see photos in 3D through a View-Master, or listen to music on a phonograph. 2-3 p.m. Shaker Library, 16500 Van Aken Blvd., 216-991-2030, shakerlibrary.org

12/1-22

‘The Sound of Music.’ The spirited, romantic, and beloved story of Maria and the von Trapp Family. The Fine Arts Association, 38660 Mentor Ave., Willoughby, 440-951-7500, fineartsassociation.org

12/6-15

‘The Neverending Story.’ An epic tale of wonder where reality and fantasy intertwine. A boy is immersed in a magical book and finds himself on a quest to save the people of Fantastica.

Magical Theatre Company, 565 W. Tuscarawas Ave., Barberton, 330-848-3708, magicaltheatre.org - CONTINUED ON PAGE 42 -

December 2019 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 41

December CALENDAR

12/6-1/5

‘Shrek The Musical.’ Based on the smash-hit DreamWorks Animation film, “Shrek The Musical” is a Tony Award-winning fairy tale adventure. Beck Center for the Arts, 17801 Detroit Road, Lakewood, beckcenter.org

day - by - DAY

12/4

Volunteer Youth Crew. Students in grades 4-6 make a difference at the library by volunteering to work in the Children’s Department. 4-5 p.m. Rocky River Public Library, 1600 Hampton Road, 440-333-7610, rrpl.org

12/5

Busy Parent Meet-Up: The Family Budget. What are the best ways to track your family’s budget? Pen and paper? Software? Nickel and dime? 6:45-7:30 p.m. Keystone-LaGrange Branch Library, 101 West St., LaGrange, 440-355-6323, elyrialibrary.org Essay Help. Need help with writing your school reports? Drop in for assistance. 4-5 p.m. Warrensville Hts. Branch Library, 4415 Northfield Road, cuyahogalibrary.org

12/7

A Healthy Dose of Nature. Join a naturalist for a hike with beautiful views, fresh air and the sounds and sights of nature. 9-11 a.m. Lake Medina, Route 18 Entrance, medinacountyparks.com Kids’ Nature Hour. Join the fun with a live animal, a craft and songs about our monthly featured friend, the southern flying squirrel. 1 p.m.

North Chagrin Reservation, 3037 SOM Center Road, Willoughby Hills, clevelandmetroparks.com

42 | Family Living at Its Best

Open World Arcade. For one day, the galleries and lobby will transform into the Open World Arcade, a family-friendly event for everyone. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Akron Art Museum, 1 S. High St., 330-376-9185, akronartmuseum.org Park Dreams. A place where kids grow up and adults relive their youth, all from the love of baseball. Come for a talk and signing by author Melvin L. Jones. 1-3 p.m. The Baseball Heritage Museum, 6601 Lexington Ave., Cleveland, 216-789-1083, baseballheritagemuseum.org Infant/Child CPR. Learn CPR techniques, choking management and rescue breathing utilizing hands-on practice.

9 a.m -1 p.m. TriPoint Medical Center, 7590 Auburn Road, Concord Twp., weblink.lakehealth.org

12/9

Geauga Skywatchers Club: Constellations, Hop-Skip & Jump. A breathtaking guided tour of how to star-hop from place to place by identifying the constellations. 6:30 p.m.

Observatory Park, 10610 Clay St., Montville Township, 440279-0820, geaugaparkdistrict.org Look and See: Doe A Deer. It’s December and the whitetailed deer can be found wandering through a winter wonderland. Join in for some fun at Schoolhouse and look for signs of deer. 10 a.m.

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

12/10

Family Engineering Night.

Fun, family-friendly engineering competition that challenges your STEM skills. 6:30-7:30 p.m. Avon Branch Library, 37485 Harvest Drive, 440-9344743, lorainpubliclibrary.org

12/11

Teen Art Day. A local artist teaches tweens and teens how to make different kinds of art. 4 p.m. Firestone Park Branch Library, 1486 Aster Ave, Akron, 330-724-2126, akronlibrary.org

12/11 & 15

Stingray Art. After learning all about enrichment and daily care from an animal care expert, you’ll help our stingrays create an original piece of art in the palette of your choosing. 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Greater Cleveland Aquarium, 2000 Sycamore St., Cleveland, 216-862-8803, greaterclevelandaquarium. com

12/12

Connecting for Kids: Music Therapy and More.

Program designed for families and their children, ages birth to 6, who are struggling in an area of development. 6-7:30 p.m.

West River Branch Library at 1194 W River Rd N, Elyria, elyrialibrary.libcal.com Full Moon Hike and Power.

Under the glow of a full moon, enjoy the sights, sounds and crisp air walking the trail. Following the hike, enjoy some hot chocolate and perhaps a campfire. 7 p.m. Springfield Bog Metropark, 1400 Portage Line Road, Springfield Twp., summitmetroparks.org The Dancing Wheels Company at MoCa. The Dancing Wheels Company will premiere East Meets West, choreographic works based on their experiences in China. 7:30-10 p.m. Museum of Contemporary Art (MoCa), 11400 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, mocacleveland.org The Science of Cookies.

Discover the science behind how cookies work and why they are so delicious through hands-on experiments. 4-5 p.m. Chardon Branch Library, 110 E. Park St., 440-285-7601, divi.geaugalibrary.net

12/13

Music Therapy & More.

Join in for a program that teaches families how to use music to improve their child’s motor, communication and social skills. 9:30 a.m. Westlake Porter Public Library, 27333 Center Ridge Road, 440-871-2600, westlakelibrary.org

12/14

Caturday at the Library.

Come meet some adorable, adoptable kitties from Cats Cradle of Stark County. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. North Canton Public Library, 185 N. Main St., 330-499-4712, ncantonlibrary.com Chickadee Feeding Campfire. Experience the wonder of hand-feeding blackcapped chickadees and discover the fascinating features of this tiny, feathered friend. 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. F. A. Seiberling Nature Realm, 1828 Smith Road, Akron, 330-865-8065, summitmetroparks.org

12/18

Story Time In The Parks: ‘Mouse’s First Snow.’

“Mouse’s First Snow” by Laura Thompson makes everyone hope for a snow day. Adorable illustrations accompany this sweet story of little Mouse and his Poppa enjoying winter fun.

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

The Grandparent Connection. Winter is a great time to explore nature with your grandchild. Program includes specially designed activities, hike, story, craft and snack. 10-11 a.m. Children’s Schoolhouse Nature Park, 9045 Baldwin Road, Kirtland Hills, lakemetroparks.com

12/19

My Five Senses. Children with a caregiver will enjoy stories, songs and a chance to explore their senses.

10:30-11:30 a.m. Berea Branch Library, 7 Berea Commons, 440-234-5475, cuyahogalibrary.org

12/20

Skywalker Adventure.

Come meet your favorite characters from beyond the stars before “Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker” comes out on Dec. 20. 6-8 p.m. Belden Village Mall, 4220 Belden Village St. NW, Canton, shoppingbelden villagemall.com

Astronomy: December Skies. Enjoy a night looking for stars in the December skies. 7 p.m. Carlisle Reservation, 12882 Diagonal Road, Lagrange, metroparks.cc

- CONTINUED ON PAGE 45 -

December 2019 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 43

Parent and Me STORYTIMES & ACTIVITIES MONDAYS, WEDNESDAYS & FRIDAYS

MONDAYS

Messy Mondays. Children ages 3-8 years with a caregiver enjoy stories, songs and a fun, creative and messy activity. 7-8 p.m. Through 1/18. Maple Heights Branch Library, 5225 Library Lane, 216-475-5000, cuyahogalibrary.org Story Stop. Hear stories, sing songs and do a little dancing too. 10 and 11 a.m. Lee Road Branch Library, 2345 Lee Road, Cleveland Hts., 216-932-3600, heightslibrary.org

Stroller Strides. A functional, total-body conditioning workout designed for moms with kids in tow comprised of strength training, cardio and core while entertaining little ones. 9:30-10:30 a.m.

Beachwood City Park West, Shaker Blvd. East, beachwood. fit4mom.com Twinkle Tots. Enjoy a light show set to lively music and learn what can be seen up in the sky. 11:30 a.m. Lake Erie Nature & Science Center, 28728 Wolf Road, Bay Village, 440-871-2900, lensc.org

TUESDAYS

Baby Bonanza. Bring your not-yet-walking babies and blankets in for books, bopping and bouncing at this lap-sit program. 10-10:30 a.m. Lee Road Branch Library, 2345 Lee Road, Cleveland Hts., heightslibrary.org Lapsit. Families with children ages 2 and younger enjoy bounces, songs, rhymes and a book, with a big finish of bubbles. 10:45 a.m. Kirtland Public Library, 9267 Chillicothe Road, Kirtland, 440-256-7323, kirtland.lib.oh.us Discovery Storytimes.

Stories, songs and rhymes, followed by a simple craft and playtime with a variety of fun and educational toys.

10:30-11:30 a.m. Through 12/10.

Barberton Public Library, 602 W. Park Ave., 330-745-1194, barberton.lib.oh.us Caregiver and Me at the Children’s Museum Cleveland. Grab your littlest learners, ages birth to 3 and enjoy a morning of singing, dancing, movement and more with other parents and children. 9:30 a.m. 3813 Euclid Ave., cmcleveland.org

44 FamilyLiving Livingat atIts ItsBest Best 44 | | Family

Garrettsville Storytime. A great opportunity for children to interact with other children and adults while fostering a love of reading and showcasing great books for little listeners. 11:30 a.m. Through 12/24. Garrettsville Branch Library, 10482 South St., portagelibrary.org

Play and Learn Stations.

Preschool literacy program offering interactive opportunities for parents or caregivers to explore with their children, ages birth to five years.

10 a.m.-noon Shaker Library, 16500 Van Aken Blvd., 216-9912030, shakerlibrary.org

WEDNESDAYS

THURSDAYS

Stories and Play. Enjoy stories, movement and songs for young children. Stay and play afterward with toys and a chance for parents to chat.

10:15-11:30 a.m. Goodyear Branch Library, 60 Goodyear Blvd., Akron, 330-784-7522, akronlibrary.org

Let’s Sing and Dance. Sing and move to the music with Miss Nancy. Ages 2-6. 9:30 and 10:15 a.m. Through 12/18.

Westlake Porter Public Library, 27333 Center Ridge Road, 440-871-2600, westlakelibrary.org

Preschool Storytime. For ages 3-5 years, independent attendance while parent remains in the building.

9:30-10:30 a.m. Through 12/12.

Chardon Branch Library, 110 E. Park St., 440-285-7601, divi. geaugalibrary.net

Mommy Mix & Mingle at the Akron Children’s Museum. Drop your school-aged children off at school, bring your babies and preschoolers and enjoy some awesome playtime and meet other moms. First Wednesday of the month. 10 a.m.-noon. 216 S. Main St., akronkids.org

Tyke Time. Tykes and caregivers hear stories, sing songs and make a craft. 11-11:30 a.m.

Headlands Branch Library, 4669 Corduroy Road, Mentor, 440-257-2000, mentorpl.org

Shalom Baby. Jump into the joys, surprises and preparations of parenthood with Shalom Baby. All are welcome to participate. 7 p.m. Through 12/4. Gross Schechter Day School, 27601 Fairmount Blvd., Pepper Pike, 216-763-1400, grossschechter.org/calendar Willowick Young & Restless.

Join this popular music and movement class for toddlers with shakers, bubbles, parachute and more. 10 and 11 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. Through 12/18. Willowick Public Library, 263 E. 305th St., 440-943-4151, we247.org

WEDNESDAYS & THURSDAYS

Preschool Storytime. Stories, songs, flannel board stories, fingerplays and a craft that encourages development of early literacy skills in young children. 10:30 a.m. Through 12/12. Reed Memorial Library, 167 E. Main St., Ravenna, 330296-2827, reedlibrary.org

FRIDAYS

Family Story Time. Children of all ages with a favorite adult are invited to join for songs, stories, fingerplays and more. 10:30 a.m. Kent Free Library, 312 W. Main St., 330673-4414, kentfreelibrary.org Wee Read and Play. Stories, active songs, rhymes and time for play. 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Jefferson Branch Library, 850 Jefferson Ave., Cleveland, 216623-7004, cpl.org Movie & Craft. For all ages with a caregiver. The craft will begin at 10:30 a.m., and the movie will begin at 11 a.m.

Through 12/20. Twinsburg Public Library, 10050 Ravenna Road, 330-425-4268, twinsburglibrary.org

SATURDAYS

Family Weekend Wonders.

Stories, activities, music and crafts for the whole family.

10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. Lakewood Library, Main Branch, 15425 Detroit Ave., 216-2268275, lakewoodpubliclibrary.org

December CALENDAR

12/20

Little Learners. Children ages 3 to 5 are invited to stop by the story room to explore and learn about letters, numbers, shapes, colors, patterns and more. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. North Ridgeville Branch Library, 37500 Bainbridge Road, 440-327-8326, lorainpubliclibrary.org Winter Animal Signs. Join a volunteer naturalist on a hike to learn about and search for the winter tracks and signs of our local wildlife. 4 p.m. Towner’s Woods, 2264 Ravenna Road, Kent, portageparkdistrict.org Willy Wonka Escape Room.

Someone has stolen Willy Wonka’s newest flavor formula.

Can you find it before Slugworth catches you? Beware, you don’t want to get distracted by all the Wonka candies. 2 p.m.

Stow-Munroe Falls Public Library, 3512 Darrow Road, 330-688-3295, smfpl.org

12/21

Celebrate the Solstice. Celebrate the longest night of the year and learn about cultural traditions from past and present.

Enjoy solstice‑themed crafts and activities, hot beverages, tasty treats and music. 6-9 p.m. Wolf Creek Environmental Center, 6100 Ridge Road, Sharon Ctr., medinacountyparks.com

12/22

Family Adventures in Space.

Take a trip that’s completely out of this world. Traveling through space, you’ll visit different objects in the solar system, explore constellations in the night sky and learn about NASA’s missions. 11:30 a.m. Lake Erie Nature & Science Center, 28728 Wolf Road, Bay Village, 440-871-2900, lensc.org Winter Concert. Renovare Music presents an interactive, family-friendly string quartet performance featuring music from around the globe. 2 p.m. Lee Road Branch Library, 2345 Lee Road, Cleveland Hts., 216-9323600, heightslibrary.org

12/26-31

Winter Break Chill Zone. Drop in at the library during winter break for a different craft of activity every day. Elyria Central Library, 320 Washington Ave., Elyria, 440322-0287, elyrialibrary.org

12/28

Reading with Reptiles. Four tame lizards from the Herps Alive Foundation in South Euclid are visiting for you to pet/hold as you read your favorite picture book to them. 10:30 a.m.- 12 p.m. Morley Library, 184 Phelps St., Painesville, 440-352-3383, morleylibrary.org Play With Your Food! Nutrition For Preschoolers. Children will explore food groups, the MyPlate system, and the fruit-n-veggie rainbow at hands-on activity stations. 3 p.m. Solon Branch Library, 34125 Portz Pkwy., 440-2488777, cuyahogalibrary.org

12/30

Homeschool Technology. Explore different facets of technology starting with the very basics.

Ages 10 and older. 1:30-2:30 p.m.

Willowick Public Library, 263 E. 305th St., 440-943-4151, we247.org Retro-Techno Touch and Feel.

Step back in time and explore the technology of yesteryear. Type a note on a typewriter, see photos in 3D through a View-Master, or listen to music on a phonograph.

2-3 p.m. Shaker Library, 16500 Van Aken Blvd., 216-991-2030, shakerlibrary.org

1/4

Wild & Scenic Film Festival.

See awe-inspiring films that showcase the work scientists, educators, and communities around the world are doing to protect the environment. 6 p.m.

Cleveland Museum of Natural History, 1 Wade Oval Drive, Cleveland, cmnh.org

December 2019 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 45

ONGOING AKRON FOSSILS & SCIENCE CENTER AKRON ART MUSEUM

THROUGH 2/2/20 ‘Open World’: Video Games and Contemporary Art. Visual artists are gamers too, yet video games are rarely examined as a major influence on contemporary art. “Open World” draws attention to this phenomenon.

1 S. High St., 330-376-9185, akronartmuseum.org

AKRON CHILDREN’S MUSEUM

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

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

ONGOING Creation Education Museum.

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

AKRON ZOO

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

CLEVELAND METROPARKS ZOO

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

CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF CLEVELAND

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

CLEVELAND HISTORY CENTER

ONGOING Cleveland Starts Here.

A place for Northeast Ohioans to locate their own stories and place themselves in the rich story of Cleveland and Northeast Ohio and for school children to experience firsthand

Family Living Living at at Its Its Best Best 46 | Family

Attractions

the history of Cleveland and the region. 10825 East Blvd., 216-7215722, wrhs.org

THE CLEVELAND MUSEUM OF ART

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

THE CLEVELAND MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY

THROUGH 4/26/20 ‘Ultimate Dinosaurs: Meet a New Breed of Bite.’ Explore the dinosaurs of the Southern Hemisphere who evolved in isolation from the dinosaurs we know and love. 1 Wade Oval Drive, cmnh.org

GREAT LAKES SCIENCE CENTER

ONGOING Curiosity Carnival. Ladies and gentlemen, children of all ages, step right up for a special exhibition like no other, featuring amazing feats of science. All the sights and sounds of the carnival, from the spectacles to the midway games, are based on science. 601 Erieside Ave., Cleveland, 216-694-2000, greatscience.com

GREATER CLEVELAND AQUARIUM

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

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S AIR & SPACE MUSEUM

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

LAKE ERIE NATURE & SCIENCE CENTER

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

MALTZ MUSEUM OF JEWISH HERITAGE

THROUGH 3/1/20 ‘Leonard Bernstein: The Power Of Music.’ The first large-scale museum exhibition to illustrate Leonard Bernstein’s life, Jewish identity and social activism.

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

MCKINLEY MUSEUM

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

NATURE CENTER AT SHAKER LAKES

THROUGH 1/6/20 ‘Fragments’ by Paula Zinsmeister. Zinsmeister uses a variety of printmaking and mixed-media techniques to portray the beauty of natural plants and grasses.

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

ROCK & ROLL HALL OF FAME

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

1100 Rock & Roll Blvd., Cleveland, rockhall.com

THE SHAKER HISTORICAL SOCIETY

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

Northeast Ohio Parent

MARKETPLACE

TOXIC FREE PRODUCTS FOR YOUR FAMILY, PETS & HOME The largest online wellness company with over 400 products to choose from. melaleuca.com/bernadettekolar

Nannies Like Family

Phenomenal care provided by our nannies and babysitters, you’ll feel like they’re a part of your family!

Contact us today for specials 440-363-1132

Call 330-554-5083 or email bmarie1122@gmail.com to make an appointment at my Stow office to view products and samples.

TO PLACE YOUR AD HERE Samantha Olp 330-636-6127

Contact

or Sam@northeastohioparent.com

December 2019 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 47

AGING ANSWERS

25

Ways to Spend Time with Grandpa and Grandma During Winter Break

By Angela Gartner

W

inter break means many kids will spend time relaxing at home, on their devices, hanging out with friends and playing with their new toys. There will be lots of family time with the holidays, too. This is also a perfect time for kids to spend extra time with their grandparents — whether they are still at home or in an assisted living community.

Here are 25 ways kids — and their parents — can make a day with grandparents extra special.

NEW LOOK NEW SEARCH NEW RESOURCES

for caregiving support

COME EXPLORE THE NEW BENROSE.ORG

48 | Family Living at Its Best

AGING ANSWERS

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.

13.

14.

15.

16.

17.

18.

19.

20.

21.

22.

23.

24.

25.

Ask them to share some stories about their childhood Do a puzzle or crossword with them Go through their photo albums with them and ask them about the family history Ask them about their favorite things to read Watch a favorite TV show of theirs with them Ask them about their favorite hobby and have them show or teach you Surprise them with an unplanned visit Find out their favorite food and then bring it to them Read a book together Help them do the dishes after a meal together (or do their dishes for them) Have grandparents help kids write out the family’s tree and history For little ones, have a little tea party; for the older teens, share a coffee and cookies with grandma and grandpa Take them shopping at their favorite place Go through their recipe cards and have them explain family favorites Make a craft, paint or draw together For little kids, create a play just for grandma and grandpa and perform it at their house Have the kids ask their grandparents how and where they met, got married and how they decided on mom’s (or dad’s) name Have each of your kids write a letter to their grandparents and have them read it outloud to them Buy tickets to a local attraction and have the whole family attend, includ ing grandma and grandpa Buy materials to create a scrapbook and have the family work on it together Have the kids do a pretend inter view with their grandparents and record it for future viewing Bring over board games or cards and have the whole family play Get materials for a fleece tie blanket in grandma or grandpa’s favorite color to work on together Have grandma or grandpa teach them something new (such as a recipe, different saying in the family’s lan- guage, etc) Grandma or grandpa can help the kids point out or draw out on a map where they grew up

December 2019 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 49

Dad

By Jason Lea

Jason Lea has a son, daughter, and a full-time job at the Mentor Public Library. He also blogs for Northeast Ohio Parent in his nonexistent free time. You can find this East-sider on Twitter at @jasonmarklea or read his blog at northeastohioparent. com/bloggers

MATTERS

Can We Kick It?

A

year ago, my wife and I entered my son into karate classes hoping that it would teach him discipline and patience.

Thus far, it’s mostly improved his

aim.

If I had a dollar for every playtime that ended with me crumpled on the ground and murmuring “good shot,” I could afford to buy my son nunchucks.

But he likes it. He likes kicking and rolling and swinging his kamas. Of course, children can be capricious, and he may change his mind before the New Year. But — if only for now — he looks forward to karate class like I look forward to carbohydrates.

I can’t remember exactly how we landed upon karate for my son. Some parents compose lists, weigh pros and cons and even consider scholarship prospects when suggesting hobbies to their children. By comparison, my wife and I enrolled our son on a lark.

But in the last year, we’ve come to appreciate several things about raising a karate kid.

EXERCISE

PHOTO BY JASON LEA

50 | Family Living at Its Best

Let’s state the obvious first. Active sports can be good for your kid’s health.

I’m not here to argue for karate over swimming, football, baseball, volleyball or cross-country. In general, it’s good for our kids to have interests that keep them moving. It doesn’t just keep them healthier, it improves their socialization and can even decrease the likelihood of depression.

Also, dojos are a great place for kids with an overabundance of exuberance. If you think your child is wild, bring them to a karate class. They’ll be surrounded by kids who’ve learned how to harness that feral energy — or, at least, are in the process of learning how to harness it.

EVERYONE’S WELCOME IN THE DOJO

We’ve had a national conversation in the last few years about what qualifies as “locker room talk” and if it’s ever acceptable. While I’m unqualified to critique the discussion as a whole, I’ll add this: The talk in the locker room is more respectful when there are boys and girls on the team.

Especially if those girls also know how to roundhouse kick you in the jaw.

THE LEADER LADDER

Your typical dojo is a case study in delegation.

You may have a 10th dan karate master running the place, but he or she isn’t the one teaching the little dragons how to tie their belts or throw a punch.

No, more often it’s the bigger kids who guide the younger kids. And pretty soon those younger kids are teaching the next generation of whitebelts. It’s a ladder of leaders where each student teaches the pupils on the rungs beneath them.

THEY GET TO BREAK THINGS THAT AREN’T YOURS

Tired of your child shattering your stuff ? Take him or her to the dojo and have them break some boards instead.

THE WHOLE DISCIPLINE AND PATIENCE THING

Sure, sometimes my son resembles a hummingbird on his fourth shot of espresso, but it’s remarkable to see him — or almost any of these young kids — when they hit the karate mat.

Children who were all jumps and jitters a few months ago are listening and waiting and performing all sorts of other tasks that seem impossible for a 5-year-old. Nowadays, there are times when I only need to tell my son to do something one time and he does it.

(I had assumed that sort of compliance would require a taser or military school.)

To be honest, I don’t know where my son’s interest in karate will go. He could quit next year or end up starring in buddy-cop films with Chris Tucker. He could open his own dojo one of these days or swap his kamas for a hockey stick.

For now, though, he likes it. And there are few joys greater than watching your kid like something that’s good for him.

Now, if he could only be a little more careful when we’re roughhousing.

December 2019 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 51

AND OUR LOWEST MONTHLY RATE YET!* *SIGN UP FOR 12 MONTHS TO GET OUR SPECIAL PRICING

WHAT COMES WITH A YMCA OF GREATER CLEVELAND MEMBERSHIP? • • • • •

FREE Open Gym FREE Open Swim FREE Group Exercise Classes FREE Wellness Consultation FREE Child Watch Services

• • • • •

Membership Reciprocity Youth & Adult Leagues & Classes 11 Branches around Cleveland Volunteer Opportunities and much more!

OFFER AVAILABLE UNTIL DECEMBER 31st 52 | FIND OUT MORE AT CLEVELANDYMCA.ORG/JOIN Family Living at Its Best