Northeast Ohio Parent Magazine - August 2020

AUGUST 2020 • FREE!

NortheastOhioParent.com

SIMPLE s

y o J BUZZ AROUND NATURE WITH THE FAMILY BEFORE SUMMER ENDS

Choice Awards 2020

READERS PICK FAMILY-FRIENDLY HOT SPOTS

Inside

August 2020 - NortheastOhioParent.com

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2 | Family Living at Its Best

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August

insiDE24

NortheastOhioParent.com

features

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OPEN HOUSES Learn more about these local schools by attending an open house.

departments

GET CREATIVE

Kids, parents and arts educators discuss the benefits of the arts and the transition to virtual programming.

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EDITOR’S NOTE Exploring the joys of the last days of summer.

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EVERYDAY EDUCATION

When it comes to teaching your baby, keep it simple and have fun with music, reading and day-to-day activities.

DINE OUT ON LOCAL FLAVORS

Take a night off from cooking with these classic, familyfriendly restaurants.

WORTH NOTING COVID-19 advice for moms-to-be, free boredom busters to download and Reading Room.

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EDUCATION This year, it’s more important than ever to navigate start-of-theschool-year.

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FAMILY CALENDAR

Squeeze in some of these fun things to do as summer wraps up.

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AGING ANSWERS

We share reopening rules and resources for your aging loved ones.

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#CLEMAMA

Manners beyond your Ps and Qs.

ON THE COVER:

For our cover photo shoot, the O’Flanagan family had fun in the Myrtle S. Holden Wildflower Garden at Holden Arboretum in Kirtland, a 2020 Northeast Ohio Parent Award winner. The five-acre garden includes more than 400 native Ohio species displayed in representative habitats modeled after plant communities found in our state. holdenarb.org PHOTO BY KIM STAHNKE PHOTOGRAPHY KIMSTAHNKEPHOTOGRAPHY.COM

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Choice Awards 2020

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PARENT CHOICE AWARDS

Drumroll, please…

Here are the winners and finalists in our fifth annual Parent Choice Awards.

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AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITY GUIDE

A round up of activities and enrichment opportunities for your children.

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PHOTO BY PRELUDE PHOTOGRAPHY

Editor's NOTE

Hold on to simple joys

When doing the cover shoot this month with the O’Flanagan family at the Holden Arboretum in Kirtland, we were all wearing masks, celebrating summer. As the early morning rays began to heat up, we chatted about nature’s wonders and, to me, the world felt normal again.

That’s why we called this issue “Simple Joys.” As we think about togetherness it’s typically with our own families, but other times it’s little moments we share with others.

It’s not easy, I know. It feels like we are divided in our decisions and opinions. However, let’s all take a deep breath in, and then out again.

It’s finally August. What does that mean to me?

Well, for one thing, I get to have some fun in this issue and share the 2020 Northeast Ohio Parent Choice Award winners and finalists. This is one of my favorite times of the year as the readers, you, get to voice your opinions about what’s awesome for families in Northeast Ohio. You told us about kid-friendly spots, the best cities to raise a family and how we can help keep our kids healthy.

Yes, back-to-school is approaching, too, and I am worried. Are you? This is the most uncertain decision I have made about my two sons’ schooling. Like most of you, I have talked to other parents about school reopening. One mom told me “No one is judging your choice.” It was nice to hear because I have been in self-doubt, so for all of you, I am going to share her sentiment and add, let’s all keep being supportive of each other during this time.

For this month — and look for more in September in our Education Guide — I wanted to provide you with some insight into helping your kids get ready for school, whether it’s online learning or not. We have to prepare for whatever new normal we are facing this year.

Finally, I get a lot of emails, but my favorites are from readers who just want to let us in on their family fun in the region. Lisa Reiss (thanks for sharing!) sent us a photo of her 5-year-old son Asher at Headlands Beach State Park in Mentor at sunset. She says it began with him saying “Take the picture like I’m holding the sun.”

I think we all need to hold onto some light with love, even when it seems like it’s going down.

VOL. NO. 7 • ISSUE NO. 07

august 2020 Northeast Ohio Parent is a property of

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

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Photo by Lisa Reiss

6 | Family Living at Its Best

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Worth NOTING

Pandemic pregnancy Local doctors explain what to do if you’re expecting during the COVID-19 crisis

By Shana O’Malley-Smith

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eing pregnant induces a whole new set of worries for moms-to-be, and adding a global pandemic to the mix can be even more overwhelming. The worldwide spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) raises many concerns for pregnant women, such as how it could affect the health of mom and baby and how it may change your labor and delivery experience.

HOW IS COVID-19 AFFECTING PREGNANT WOMEN? The majority of current evidence suggests that expectant mothers are not more susceptible than any other person to getting COVID-19. The virus affects both men and women and people of all ages. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, symptoms include fever or chills, cough, fatigue, headaches, shortness of breath, body aches, loss of taste and smell, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, nausea or vomiting and diarrhea. There are no specific symptoms special to pregnant women.

Of the more than 4 million cases of COVID-19 in the U.S., pregnant women account for 12,969 cases, 3,524 hospitalizations and 35 deaths through July 21, according to the CDC. While pregnant women aren’t more likely than anyone else to get COVID-19, they might be at an increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19 compared to non-pregnant people, according to the CDC. “New information from the CDC suggests that pregnant women may be at increased risk for certain manifestation of severe illness due to COVID-19, such as intensive care unit admission and ventilation,” says Dr. Oluwatosin Goje, an OB-GYN at the Cleveland Clinic.

“But overall risk of these clinical interventions remains low and pregnant patients do not appear to be at increased risk of death compared with non-pregnant patients of the same age.”

CAN I GIVE COVID-19 TO MY BABY? “As far as we understand, this is not vertically transferred — you passing it on to your baby while pregnant does not occur,” says Dr. Nancy J. Cossler, chief of system quality for obstetrics at University Hospitals.

While it doesn’t appear that COVID-19 can be transferred to your baby in the womb, you can give it to your baby after delivery, which is why hospitals are testing every mother who comes into labor and delivery whether they show symptoms or not.

“One of the reasons we test asymptomatic women upon delivery is that moms who are COVID positive, we still want them to breastfeed and do kangaroo care, but they need to learn how to do it safely,” Cossler adds.

A big worry for moms is that they will be automatically separated from their newborn if they test positive

FamilyLiving Livingat atIts ItsBest Best 88 || Family

for COVID-19, but area hospitals have protocols in place that allow mothers to stay with their babies if they choose to do so.

“We don’t want moms to be afraid that we’re going to take their baby,” Cossler says.

“The pediatricians will talk to the mom who is COVID positive and will outline two possibilities. The mom can choose to have the baby stay in a separate room, but she can also choose to co-locate and keep the baby in her room. We keep the baby 6 feet away from mom, except when she’s breastfeeding, and we teach her how to breastfeed safely.”

LABOR AND DELIVERY EXPECTATIONS As you prepare for labor and delivery during this time, being flexible is essential.

Expectant mothers should work with their care teams to stay up to date on the latest hospital rules and regulations.

“Women have always had a special family bonding time during the delivery and can still have the same experience if it is planned ahead,” Goje says.

“They should have discussions with their providers about expectations and should discuss with their families also about expectations.”

A few things mothers should consider is how many support people are allowed to be with you during labor and delivery, what to do if your support person tests positive for COVID-19, visitor guidelines, breastfeeding support, and how to take precautions around family and friends after you’re discharged.

STAYING HEALTHY WHILE PREGNANT Pregnant women should take the same precautions as those who are not pregnant to protect themselves from COVID-19. According to the CDC, the best ways to protect yourself and to help reduce the spread of the virus are to: • Limit your interactions with other people as much as possible; • Avoid contact with people who are sick; • Wash your hands often; • Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth face cover when around others; • Cover coughs and sneezes; • Clean frequently touched surfaces; and • Monitor your health daily and call your doctor if you aren’t feeling well.

Free boredom busters from Let Grow We all want our kids to engage in unstructured, free play, but sometimes they need a little encouragement — especially with COVID-19 boredom in full force.

The folks at Let Grow, a nonprofit group dedicated to encouraging parents and schools to help kids develop independence, have created a resource for you: the free, downloadable Let Them Play Kit. It’s designed to “help adults take a backseat in organizing and planning kid free time.”

The kit includes a pledge for parents and kids, a list of 100 activities for bored kids and instructions for 20 backyard games.

Learn more and download the kit at letgrow.org/ let-them-play-kit.

— Marisa Palmieri Shugrue

READINGROOM Freedom, We Sing

By Amyra León, illustrated by Molly Mendoza Molly Mendoza’s immersive, lush illustrations invite kids to ponder singer/ songwriter Amyra León’s poem about what it means to be free. It’s the perfect book for parents who want a way to gently start the conversation with their kids about finding hope in the tense times we’re living in.

One Leaf Rides the Wind

By Celeste Mannis, illustrated by Susan Kathleen Hartung

Filled with lush illustrations, this counting book reveals both the pleasure and the tranquility of the Japanese garden, while introducing haiku poetry, with eleven poems that are simple and easy to follow.

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DINE OUT on

Local Flavors MOST RESTAURANTS ARE STILL OPEN FOR BUSINESS THIS SUMMER — TRY THESE CLASSIC, FAMILY-FRIENDLY OPTIONS

By Vince Guerrieri

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ometimes, a meal is just sustenance.

But sometimes, it’s part of the adventure. Who doesn’t have memories of finding a hole in the wall that led to a great dinner, or an alfresco lunch during a day at the beach?

With that in mind, here’s a sampling of a variety of kid- and budget-friendly places in the Cleveland area, each offering its own piece of local flavor.

Obviously, coronavirus has made everyone’s travel plans a little more tenuous, and nobody’s been hurt more by the pandemic than bars and restaurants. Dine-in options are available at most of these spots, as is carryout. And whenever possible, please remember to wear a mask, maintain proper social distancing and wash your hands frequently.

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Slyman’s

Corned beef is an art form in Cleveland, and Slyman’s is one of its foremost practitioners. The original (slymans.com), not far from downtown Cleveland but only open for breakfast and lunch, is a destination unto itself, with celebrities including Rachael Ray and President George W. Bush stopping in and opening wide for the mountainous sandwiches.

There are also locations in Independence, just off Interstate 77, Mentor and the Pinecrest shopping complex in Orange that are open for dinner and a drink (and their wall decorations will keep kids — and kids at heart — occupied). slymanstavern.com

Mama Santa’s

Up from University Circle, with Severance Hall and a variety of museums, is the city’s Little Italy, home to a variety of restaurants serving everything from pizza to fine dining, and bakeries offering all kinds of pastries, with recipes handed down for generations. But the best place to get a little bit of everything is Mama Santa’s. It looks like a typical Italian restaurant, right down to the comforting checkered tablecloths — and the pizza is the best in town. mamasantas.com

Swensons Drive-In

In 1933, Wesley Swenson started selling hamburgers out of the back of his car in Akron. A year later, he opened his first stand.

Generations later, Swensons (whose carside service is particularly relevant in these pandemic times) remains a destination for fans of hamburgers and milkshakes in the Cleveland and Akron areas — including Akron native LeBron James, who took his “Trainwreck” co-stars down to Akron for Galley Boys, the often-imitated, never-duplicated burger regularly regarded as one of the best burgers in the country. And, if you’re looking for convenience instead of experience, you can order ahead at orderswensons.com. swensonsdriveins.com

Bearden’s

TRAVEL BONUS

For more than 70 years, people in and around Rocky River have been coming to Bearden’s for hamburgers, onion rings and milkshakes. The retro décor makes you imagine the staff pushing the tables to the side and hosting a sock hop. Meals there are a bargain — particularly on the restaurant’s anniversary date in the fall, when they sell burgers for a special price corresponding to the number of years they’ve been open. beardens.com

Melt

What kid doesn’t love grilled cheese? The comfort food staple can be easy to overlook, but Melt makes it impossible to do so. With a variety of wild items on the menu — made from old album covers — amid an eclectic decor, the regional chain takes the dish to new heights. (There are locations outside of Northeast Ohio, including Columbus and Cedar Point.) melbarandgrilled.com

Dirty Frank’s, Columbus

Chicago has its own hot dog. Detroit has its coney dog. Dirty Frank’s in downtown Columbus takes its stab at an official state weiner with the Ohioana, topped with spicy corn relish and celery salt, a nod to the founder’s Windy City roots. dirtyfranks.com

Tommy’s

What began as a small milkshake stand in Cleveland Heights in 1972 has turned into an East Side landmark, with vegetarian, gluten-free and Middle Eastern dining options in addition to diner classics that draw people from miles around. And there’s still a full dessert menu — including the milkshakes that made them famous. tommyscoventry.com

Vince Guerrieri is a journalist and author in the Cleveland area. His work has appeared in a variety of places, including Cleveland Magazine, Ohio Magazine, Lake Erie Living magazine, POLITICO, Smithsonian and Popular Mechanics.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF SLYMAN’S TAVERN, MAMA SANTA’S AND SWENSONS.

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Education CORNER

Managing Back-to-School Anxiety The start of the school year usually comes with at least a touch of trepidation, but this year, it’s more important than ever to navigate end-of-summer anxiety

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his time of year has a familiar cadence to it. By the beginning of August, a bit of excitement mixed with anticipation and yes, probably some anxiety, begins to creep up as the new school year approaches.

“Anything that might be new, like new teachers, new school or new building, brings with it some anticipatory anxiety,” says Dr. Kimberly Bell, clinical director, at Hanna Perkins Center for Child Development in Shaker Heights. “Usually for kids, the anxiety sounds something like, ‘Am I going to look stupid? Am I not going to know where I’m going? Will I have any of my friends in my classes?’ Those are unknowns.”

THE COVID-19 FACTOR

Of course, this is 2020, and the COVID-19 pandemic has taken back-to-school anxiety to a whole new level. Today’s students, parents, teachers and school administrators are faced with more uncertainty than ever, and no matter how a given school district is

Family Living Living at at Its Its Best Best 12 12 || Family

By Heather Tunstall

handling the current situation, education will certainly look different this year than in years past.

It’s a complex time, with families responding to the pandemic in a variety of ways. This situation makes it difficult to have a consensus about the “right” way to move forward with the 2020-21 school year.

“This is a new virus, a new experience for all of us, and it’s all changing,” says Ruta Maciulis, director of academic services and school psychologist at Lake Ridge Academy in North Ridgeville. “Some students are afraid they’re going to catch it, some have had family members who have been sick or have passed away, so it’s a lot more internalized. There are some families that don’t believe it even exists and that it’s not going to touch their family. It’s going to be a lot of melding of different people coming together with different views, different beliefs.”

The contrasting opinions on what’s appropriate for this time can create tension between kids as they come together in a revised school setting, adding layers to typical social anxieties and the need to “fit in” for many students.

Grace Dooley, 13, attends a private

school in Elyria that educates preschool through eighth graders. Her family has been cautious, wearing masks and limiting exposure to COVID-19 by quarantining and practicing social distancing. She is to start eighth grade this fall, her final year at her school.

“I’d like to be able to go back to school and have a normal eighth grade year with my friends because I might not ever see them after next year,” she says. “But I’m not really sure how the schools will be able to open safely without getting sick, just because there’s so many people that they’ll have to keep separate.”

Grace’s mother, Megan Dooley, shares the same concern. She has four children ranging from kindergarten to eighth grade. In a typical year, they have a routine to prepare for the school year that includes picking out backpacks, getting school supplies ready, and starting conversations about going back to school.

This year, her kids seem to be handling the uncertainty well overall, she says. While they have questions and concerns about what will happen, they aren’t visibly suffering from major anxiety over it. For Megan Dooley, it’s more difficult.

“I’ll be honest, I’m worried,” she says.

“Rationally, I know our school will do what they can to protect our kids. Logically, I understand why some parents need school to open. Psychologically, I understand why the American Academy of Pediatrics says schools should do what they can to open. But, scientifically, it seems like based on the science and medical info we have so far, no school can open safely based on the guidelines.

Trying to make all those concepts make sense together in my head is a driving force of my stress and anxiety.”

A HEALTHY START

Trying to manage the anxiety in both children and parents is imperative as the school year approaches. Depending on the age of the child, conversations can be as specific or as high-level as appropriate to get them comfortable with what to expect, whether that’s wearing a mask, keeping distance from other people, or even a modified learning environment.

“As crazy as the world is right now, the best thing you can do is talk and verbalize everybody’s feelings about it, and to be as prepared as you can be,” Bell says. “You can prepare kids for things they might not expect by simply explaining that some things may come up that will be surprising. Then you’ve actually inoculated them because you’ve prepared them that there may be some unexpected things that you just can’t know yet, but if they happen, you’ll talk about them and you’ll get through them.”

Part of that preparation is ongoing communication with the school system to know what they’re planning to do, and then sharing that information with your children.

“Buy your school supplies early,” Maciulis says. “Hand sanitizers, masks, tissues and wipes will likely be on every list. I would say to buy

supplies as soon as possible and don’t wait for the last minute with that list.”

Establishing a routine early will help reduce stress and anxiety for parents and students alike, Maciulis adds.

“Start with getting into the swing of it, getting good rest and eating good food, talking about why they may need to wear masks, why they may see plexiglass, why they may need to be home part of the time in a way that doesn’t induce fear,” she says.

Some children, particularly younger ones, can be overexposed to news and information that is developmentally above their heads and not appropriate for them, and they may absorb fears from their family and peers, Maciulis says.

Bell agrees, recommending that parents reduce the overall household anxiety by starting with managing their own coping mechanisms and demonstrating a healthy lifestyle for the kids.

“I think we need to practice increasing our bubble in bearable bits, in manageable pieces for ourselves and for our kids,” Bell says. “Parents need to set aside a time in the evening when kids are in bed, or in their rooms if they’re older or not around, to support and discuss worries and fears with each other, because we can get through anything that can be talked about. And whether that’s a spouse or whether that’s extended family, I would hold those conversations

until the evening when you don’t have your kids around, so that they’re not hearing multiple anxiety-filled discussions.”

If you recognize signs that anxiety is getting in the way of daily life — for example, if symptoms and behavior changes are severe or last for longer than a few days — it’s important to talk with a mental health professional. For younger children, you may not need to involve them in therapy sessions, but rather opt for parent guidance work to help them navigate their anxiety.

“Bodily anxiety symptoms like stomach aches, headaches and not sleeping well will happen all the way through adolescence,” Bell says. “Whenever a child doesn’t have words to describe their feelings, their body will do the talking for them. Any major changes in any kind of behavior is a good reason to sit down and ask, ‘Is there something on your mind?’”

“The thing about consulting with a therapist is that you talk about your child, and you talk about how to apply these various things to your specific situation,” she adds. “And there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. There’s just too many different personality traits. Talking to a therapist as a parent just gives you help in what’s going to work best for your kid.”

Heather Tunstall is a freelance writer who lives in Lakewood.

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Education CORNER

Get Ready for Online School Tips for preparing your child’s workspace and getting devices ready for the new school year

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By Michèle L. Bailey

ost Northeast Ohio schools have unveiled reopening plans that include some form of remote learning due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Some students are starting their first nine weeks online, while others are returning to a hybrid in-person and online curriculum.

Parents and kids already experienced online learning last school quarter, but no one had time to prepare.

With school almost here in this new environment, Jeanette Brossmann, communication studies department chair and professor at Lakeland Community College in Kirtland, shares how parents can create an at-home kid-friendly learning space.

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GET THEM IN THE BACK-TO-SCHOOL MINDSET

Find or buy back-to school supplies off the list, even if your family will be doing school at home, to help get into the “normal” school mindset. Also, Brossmann says let your child make the workspace creative and cool. Keep the area stocked with bottled water, paper, pencils, crayons, highlighters, erasers and so on. It’ll be fun and your kid will take personal pride in the space. Don’t forget to have your student create, design and post a daily work schedule that also includes break times.

Teach your kid that keeping the workspace organized will save time. Organization eliminates wasting time looking for items

GET KIDS’ TECH STRAIGHT In the new online learning environment, most kids will need some basics besides pen and paper. For starters, they’ll need a laptop, tablet or computer that allows them to learn easily with any other distractions. Here are some ways to set up for back-to-school technology.

Family Controls — Before the school year begins, check your family controls on the smart device or through your internet provider. Are there ways to limit distractions during school hours? For example, new Apple products have a screentime monitor built-in. Also, look for the Google Chrome Screentime Extension app or the Google Family Link app to monitor screentime on those devices.

Some internet providers help parents monitor devices with services like Verizon Smart Family.

Internet Providers — For those seeking internet access, providers like Cox have a Connect2Compete program through September 30 for the first two months free and $9.95 per month access for those who qualify. AT&T and other internet providers also offer low-cost options.

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DEDICATE ONE AREA IN THE HOME TO YOUR CHILD’S LEARNING

Choosing a dedicated space for your child to work gets tricky. Often, parents have children work at the kitchen table; however, when it’s meal time the kidshave to move the work out the way. It’s better to find an area that doesn’t have to be used for multiple purposes. This way their materials are always in one place and are not disrupted by the family. To maximize your child’s focus, select a workspace located in an area with minimal distractions. Also, stay away from the TV, video games and toys. Your child will learn more quickly and effectively in a distraction-free zone.

14 | Family Living at Its Best

needed. Every time your child gets up to look for an item, it can break a train of thought that might have led to understanding an idea or concept.

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POSITION THE WORKSPACE IN AN AREA WHERE YOU CAN MONITOR YOUR CHILD.

Designate a space that allows you to clearly see that your child is on task rather than being drawn into activities instead of television or their smart devices. Sure you can reduce the noise distractions if your child is working in the bedroom with the door closed, but you can’t easily check on him or her.

Online Classrooms — Most schools use Google Classroom or other online learning applications. As schools introduce their plans for the school year, have the kids get an early start on how to use the technology by logging in to all their school accounts. For parents, check out the short video tutorials on Google Classroom for Parents on YouTube.com, if that’s the preferred method for their school.

Find internet access options and other helpful learning links at education.ohio.gov/ Topics/Student-Supports/ Coronavirus.

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t e G tiv� a e Cr

By Ginny McCabe

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PHOTO COURTESY OF FAIRMOUNT CENTER FOR THE ARTS

Kids, parents and arts educators discuss the benefits of the arts and the transition to virtual programming 16 | Family Living at Its Best

hen you talk with Maddie Kish about dance, you can hear the passion in her voice.

“The thing I love the most about dance is the bonds that I have with all of my friends, and especially with my teachers,” says 13-year-old Maddie.

“They taught me a lot this year about how to be well rounded and respectful. It’s so much more than just dancing; it’s really a life lesson.”

Maddie started as a dance student at Fine Arts Association in Willoughby as a small child. Now, she’s a teenager and an incoming freshman at Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin High School in Chardon.

Kish has taken classes in jazz, ballet, tap, hip-hop and contemporary dance, and she’s involved in several teen performance groups.

Pre-COVID-19, she spent five days a week, and more than three hours a day in the studio at Fine Arts Association. Her mom says she’s been in ballet since she was 3, and she’s performed with the Moscow Ballet. Even during the quarantine, she has continued to take virtual classes online.

“For us, it’s always been an artistic outlet for her to be able to be creative and she explored every aspect of the fine arts,” says Maddie’s mother, Marcia Kish, who

also serves as a special projects coordinator at Fine Arts Association. “For me, it’s important for my daughter to be well rounded and engaged. There are a lot of pressures in life on kids in general, and for her to be able to have that creative outlet is vital.”

Bridging Gaps

Children and adults learn differently, obtain information differently and communicate differently, says Jeannie Fleming-Gifford, executive director, Fairmount Center for the Arts.

The arts can help people bridge those communication gaps.

“We know the arts are the gateway that open the door that will allow us to communicate with each other,” she says. “The other thing is we know that the arts simply provide opportunities for children to learn academic skills. If we’re in theater, we learn things about expression, building confidence, characterization and reading comprehension. All of those things are skills you learn.”

The arts also help children understand and express themselves better, Fleming-Gifford says.

“The arts are another tool in our lives that we can help people, and specifically children, grow and become the best selves that they can be,” she says. “Plus, there’s that

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connection with each other, the connection to work as a group to accomplish a common goal, whether we are working on a dance piece collaboratively, or whether we are creating a mural.”

Josh Vasko, 11, is a dancer at Fairmount Center for the Arts.

He’s been taking dance classes for two years. He’s taken hip-hop, ballet, contemporary and jazz.

Going into the sixth grade this year in Chagrin Falls, he became interested in dance when his sister, Lauren, 13, started taking hip-hop classes and encouraged him to try them.

“I know not a lot of boys do dance, and the biggest thing I’ve learned is that even if people make fun of you, it’s OK to do what you like,” Josh Vasko says.

He says more girls than boys take dance, but he knows some boys like him really enjoy doing dance and they want to keep doing it.

Miriam Vasko, Josh’s mom, says dance is a good discipline for her son. It allows him to practice following instructions and fosters a love of learning.

PHOTO COURTESY OF LAKE ERIE INK

“The kids always want to perfect their art, so they are always striving to do better,” says Miriam Vasko.

She says that could apply to painting, music or any of the other arts the Fairmount Center offers. Josh’s sister, Lauren has also taken hip-hop, ballet and contemporary at Fairmount Center for the Arts. Josh also has a twin brother Jacob, 11, who loves sports.

“The arts definitely allow them to express their creativity. If you watch one of their performances, for instance, they all express it just a little bit differently, even though they all are doing the same dance, and they’re all in unison, but you can see little personal touches about each of them, which I think is nice to see,” says Miriam Vasko, “It’s nice to see a little bit of their personality in their dance.”

With the Beck Center’s Creative Arts Therapies program, for example, students, parents and teachers have experienced various benefits as a result of being involved in the arts. Students learn the art skill as well as other daily living skills.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE FINE ARTS ASSOCIATION

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Creative Outlets

Learn more about opportunities for enrolling your child in the arts at one of these local organizations.

• Beck Center for the Arts, Lakewood, beckcenter.org • Cleveland Clinic’s Arts & Medicine Institute, various locations, my.clevelandclinic.org/departments/arts-medicine • Lake Erie Ink, Cleveland Heights, lakeerieink.org • Fairmount Center for the Arts, Novelty, fairmountcenter.org • Fine Arts Association, Willoughby, fineartsassociation.org

“They are using the art form to improve their quality of life, and it’s an outlet for that, or it’s teaching them a skill,” says Ed Gallagher, director of education, at Beck Center for the Arts in Lakewood. Beck Center offers classes in dance, Creative Arts Therapies, music, theater, visual arts as well as early childhood arts education courses.

Students learn communication, academic, motor, emotional and social skills, which often complement their in-school curriculum.

Other benefits include building confidence, allowing for self-expression and providing a sense of belonging.

“The thing that I’m excited about with the arts and proud of in the arts is it’s a place for so many people with so many interest levels that come together and be themselves,” Gallagher says.

Graeme Ogilvy, 8, has been a part of the Creative Arts Therapies program for three years and looks forward to his weekly lessons with Music Therapist Michael Simile.

He enjoys music and has played the guitar, ukulele, drums and keyboard. Ogilvy was also recently featured in a YouTube video that

promotes the Beck Center’s Creative Arts Therapies program.

“Music has become a big part of our family, helping Graeme regulate his emotions, and it has also been a big help with his confidence, too,” says Dan Ogilvy, Graeme’s dad.

Graeme is a rising third grader.

Three years ago, his parents were looking for ways to meet his sensory needs and manage his anxiety as he transitioned out of occupational therapy.

Since he was an infant, Graeme has connected with music. He started taking lessons at the Beck Center when he was 5, and now music has become an important part of his daily routine.

“We were thinking this is something he can do all through his adult life, whether he’s on a stage or not,” says his mother, Emily Ogilvy. “If he has the instrument and the tools, it creates access for him no matter what age he is. It’s something he can take with him forever.”

The Ogilvys have three children: Graeme, Annabelle, 5, and Rory, 1. Annabelle takes ballet classes at Beck Center and started taking classes when she was three.

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Writing as Art

Creative writing and expression are the focus at Lake Erie Ink: A Writing Space for Youth, which typically offers on-site after school writing programs, where kids can also work on and get support with their homework.

“We try to take writing and put it in a playful zone, so kids are having fun while they are becoming better communicators,” says Cynthia Larsen, education director at Lake Erie Ink, which also offers weekend programs, in-person summer camps, evening programs for teens and college essay programs. It also hosts an annual Kids’ Comic Con. “One of the best ways to engage kids who don’t think they want to be involved in creative writing is to start with comics,” she says.

Much of what kids do at Lake Erie Ink is about choice and diverse types of writing that are not offered during the school day, such as creating comics, writing a play,

acting in a play, creating puppets and telling their stories.

“What we do, whether it’s in school or outside of school, is we try to give kids as many choices as we can in terms of what they say and how they say it,” Larsen says, “If you have a kid that loves science-fiction and fantasy, they are not going to get to write that very often, because it’s not on the (standardized) test. If you have kids who like to draw comics, they may be respected as an artist by all their peers, but it’s very hard for anyone to ever see their work published, unless they are involved in a program like ours, where we can get their work into anthologies and post their work on our website, social media channels and things like that,” says Larsen.

Get Engaged

As part of the art therapy program of the Arts & Medicine Institute at Cleveland Clinic, kids also have experienced benefits by

MADDIE KISH PHOTO SUBMITTED

BY MARCIA KISH

engaging with the arts.

“We found a need for art therapy services in our children’s hospital because art is such a universal way that children communicate,” says Meredith McCulloch, art therapist at Cleveland Clinic. “We do see patients from both within the community and around the world, so language and cultural barriers that otherwise might make it difficult to help children aren’t as much of an impediment when you are using art and music. Those are ways

•

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kids express themselves around the world.”

In addition to helping children express themselves and self regulate, art helps them develop a positive association to being in the hospital and receiving medical treatment, McCulloch says. They don’t associate the hospital only with a place that they’re experiencing fear and pain, so it’s helpful for them to be more cooperative with their care when they are relaxed and trust their caregivers.

Virtual and In-Person Class Options

Options abound in the age of COVID-19. Most arts organizations are offering both in-person and virtual class options.

“We’re going to do a hybrid mix between in-person and online classes, and depending on which program, that might look a little differently,” says Jackie DiFrangia, education coordinator, Fine Arts Association.

For example, music lessons are typically one-onone with an instructor and a student.

“Each student will have the option,” says DiFrangia. “If they are comfortable coming into the building and their teacher is also comfortable coming into the building, they are welcome to come in, but then again, if somebody wants to stay online and stay home, they also can do that.”

For in-person offerings, arts centers are following state guidelines for social distancing and increasing cleaning.

“In all of our classrooms, we have measured out how many students can be in each class, while still keeping social distancing, so maybe, the in-person classes will be much smaller, but we’re still going to open it up for students,” DiFrangia says.

Parents should check with each arts facility to find out more about class schedules and options for virtual and in-person offerings. Most arts centers have expanded their reach and engaged new audiences with the addition of the virtual programming.

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AFTER SCHOOL

Busy Bees Pottery & Art Studio

With a variety of projects to express your artistic side, you’ll treasure each one — along with the memories you made creating them. Choose to walk in, book a private party or join a scheduled workshop. Projects include pottery painting, candle making, glass fusing, canvas painting, mosaics and more. 440-571-5201, mentor.busybeesart.com

Cleveland City Dance

You will love watching your child’s eyes sparkle with delight as they experience the magic of dance in nurturing and inspiring classes. Small class sizes offer personal attention, building confidence, poise, technique and camaraderie in classes for boys and girls ages 3 and older. In-person and virtual classes available.

216-295-2222, clevelandcitydance.com

Effective Leadership Academy

Through a variety of hands-on, engaging activities, ELA students take a “journey of self-discovery” and gain essential tools for success along the way. The timeless skills that ELA teaches, such as time management, goal-setting and outside-the-box thinking, lay the groundwork for resilience, future employment, productivity and achievement. 216-2928775, effectivela.org

Etiquette Consulting Services

Good behavior opens doors. Etiquette Consulting Services’ programs for children and teens focus on skills to help them succeed in the classroom, at home, on the job and with peers. Application of these skills leads to increased opportunities, greater confidence and improved self-esteem. 216-292-8888, etiquetteconsultingservices.com

Fairmount Center for the Arts

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Fairmount Center for the Arts’ fall session begins August 31 and includes on-site and online dance, music, art, theatre and fitness programs for all ages. Fairmount’s ArtsyoU program offers customized, flexible, individual and small group experiences. Perfect for those schooling differently or a great gift idea. 440-338-3171, fairmountcenter.org

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AFTER SCHOOL

Gelfand STEM Center

We are in a climate emergency. Action on climate change is everyone’s responsibility. The pre-college students in Environmental Heroes at CWRU’s Gelfand STEM Center invite you to take action in their statewide Climate Action Summit on Sept. 26 from 4-6 p.m., urging the state legislature to act now for Ohio. gelfand.case.edu

Girl Scouts of North East Ohio

With the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak, we are sharing news and events for families who are parenting through the pandemic.

Visit NortheastOhioParent.com for more information and updates.

Social and emotional learning and development are strong predictors of academic success and healthy relationships, and Girl Scouts has designed fun activities to fill this critical need. In a four-part event series, GSNEO will help girls practice interaction, explore emotions, practice reasoning and problem-solving skills, and more.

Register at girlscouts.org/ready.

Kindermusik of Western Reserve

Kindermusik is the world’s leading provider of music-based education for children from birth through age 7. For three generations, Kindermusik has helped millions of children around the world build a strong foundation for a lifetime of learning. Classes offered at Hudson School of Music. 330-655-8499, hudsonkindermusik.com

Mandel Jewish Community Center

The Mandel JCC offers quality rated preschool and toddler care from 18 months to Pre-K. Experienced educators provide an enriching environment filled with play and exploration, including visits to the outdoor garden and play area. It offers lower child-to-staff ratios than mandated by the state and exceeds safety/ health guidelines. Children flourish within a cultural and academic setting. 26001 S. Woodland Road, Beachwood, 216-871-0700, ext.

1375, mandeljcc.org/preschool

March Into Kindergarten

If your child is entering kindergarten this year, log on to marchintokinder garten.com or call 2-1-1.

There, you can connect to your local school district to find out how to register, when school will start and all the information you need to ensure the best start for your child.

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Fall Open Houses HAWKEN SCHOOL

Lower & Middle Schools 5000 Clubside Road, Lyndhurst 440-423-4446, hawken.edu Sept. 30 & Oct. 22: 8:30 am (Parent Visits) Nov. 15: 1 p.m. (Open House) Upper School 12465 County Line Road, Gates Mills 440-423-4446, hawken.edu Sept. 24: 12:30 p.m.

(Parent Visit) Oct. 15: 8:30 a.m. (Parent Visit) Nov. 8: 1 p.m. (Open House)

HERITAGE CLASSICAL ACADEMY

Bainbridge Campus 7100 Pettibone Road, Chagrin Falls 330-548-1738, heritageclassicalacademy.org Sept. 24: 10 a.m.

Peninsula Campus 1930 Bronson St., Peninsula 330-548-1738, heritageclassicalacademy.org Sept. 25: 10 a.m.

Birchwood School 4400 W. 140th St., Cleveland 216-251-2321, birchwoodschool.org Nov. 18: 2 p.m. (Open House) Mastery School 11025 Magnolia Drive, Cleveland 440-423-4446, hawken.edu Sept. 29: 8:30 a.m.

(Parent Visit) Oct. 20: 12:30 p.m.

(Parent Visit) Nov. 22: 1 p.m. (Open House)

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Submit your open house to us at openhouse@ northeastohio parent.com

LAWRENCE SCHOOL

Lower School 1551 E. Wallings Road, Broadview Hts. 440-526-0717, lawrenceschool.org Aug. 5: noon (Virtual Open House) Upper School 10036 Olde Eight Road, Sagamore Hills 440-526-0717, lawrenceschool.org Aug. 11: noon (Virtual Open House - Grades 7-8) Aug. 14: noon (Virtual Open House - High School)

MENLO PARK ACADEMY 2149 W. 53rd St., Cleveland 440-925-6365, menloparkacademy.com Oct. 17: 10-11:30 a.m.

SAINT IGNATIUS

1911 West 30th St., Cleveland 216-651-0222, ignatius.edu Oct. 11: noon-6 p.m.

Education NEWS

Great Lakes Science Center Launches Program to Fill Gaps in School Week

A

s school districts across Northeast Ohio adapt to the pandemic, many parents may be left wondering how a virtual or hybrid week of at-school classroom instruction and at-home online learning will impact their family and schedule.

Great Lakes Science Center’s new Learning Lab program is designed to support working parents who need daytime childcare for their school-age children. According to GLSC, the program provides a safe, supportive environment where children can do their schoolwork virtually.

“Learning Lab is school-day support for families, like a bridge between the classroom and home,” said Vice President of STEM Learning Scott Vollmer. “Parents are facing significant challenges as they manage new schedules and expectations for their children’s education. With the Learning Lab, we’re looking to ease that worry by offering a safe, supportive alternative.”

The Science Center has designed the program to be appropriate for school-age children who will spend part of their day participating in school virtually or doing homework. The STEM Learning team will facilitate the day,

providing an experience that is more social and structured than what might be typically offered in childcare.

“The Learning Lab will be much closer to a typical day in the classroom,” Vollmer said. “We will provide children with the supports of a school day — an educator to facilitate the work provided by their school, workspace, internet access, a lunch break, and supervised, outdoor recess.”

There also will be fun, “non-screen,” STEM-related activities when there is downtime from their online school work, with opportunities to meet new friends and to experience social and emotional growth.

Complete health and safety measures for the program are available at greatscience.com. The program requires a daily wellness check and masks for children and staff. Social distancing measures will be in place with small class sizes and ample spacing between work stations. Children will be supported to maintain proper mask hygiene and frequent hand washing.

The program is open to children in kindergarten through eighth grade, and registration begins Wednesday, July 29, at greatscience. com. Opening day is Monday, Aug. 24, and the

program will initially run through Dec. 22. The Learning Lab is available Monday through Friday, with drop-off available 7:30-9 a.m. and pick up from 2:30-3:30 p.m. After-care from 3:30-5:30 p.m. will be available for an additional fee. Children may be registered for as little as one day per week and may vary their schedule week by week.

Children can bring a lunch, or order a boxed lunch in advance for $7.50 a day. The Learning Lab costs $59 per day, with a 10 percent discount for science center members. After-care will be available for an additional $15 per day.

—Submitted by Great Lakes Science Center

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Everyday Education

By Jessica Dill

I

t’s just about that time to put away the swimsuits and beach towels. The first day of school is right around the corner for older kiddos.

What about our babies? Obviously babies can’t head to the classroom yet, but there are a lot of ways moms and dads can educate their infants.

The best part is you don’t even have to leave your home.

“Even from birth, a lot of the best learning that happens for our babies happens through simply living,” says Dr. Kimberly Churbock, a board certified primary care pediatrician at the Cleveland Clinic.

“Examples would be a parent talking to a baby, getting at the face level and engaging, smiling, making faces and allowing the baby to take in that face. Over time your baby will start to copy those facial expressions.”

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When it comes to teaching your baby, keep it simple and have fun with music, reading and day-to-day activities

Parents don’t need to buy expensive toys and contraptions to teach their babies.

In fact, Churbock says the best tool is the parent’s voice, and some of the best resources are the simple toys or household objects we already have. For example, pots and pans make great musical toys.

“Everything is new to our babies,” Churbock says. “They are really just discovering the world around them, so take a walk around the house and point out the pictures or go outside and look at the plants and birds and animals.”

Have a long “to do” list? That’s great because you can incorporate your childrens’ education into your day-to-day activities.

Take laundry, for example. Your little one can be working on “tummy time” while feeling the different textures of the clothing you’re folding. If your baby is older than 6 months old, you can fill

the laundry basket to weigh it down, and have your child practice pulling himself or herself up.

Even though your baby may not be able to talk yet, it’s never too early to start reading with your infants.

“A good general rule of thumb is to read as much and as often as you can,” Churbock says. “Your baby is going to love hearing your voice when you talk and when you sing songs. Those are wonderful ways to foster learning.”

Music can be an important part of your baby’s education. There are many musical resources around Northeast Ohio for your little one.

For example, Music Together Summit in Fairlawn provides music classes for infants, toddlers and preschoolers with their parents or caregivers.

“Research tells us that children are

wired for tone and rhythm just as they are for language and motor skills,” says David Palomo, director of Music Together Summit. “Not only does music engage a child’s emotional development, it also engages their vocal and motor development. This all happens while helping them lay the foundation to be lifelong music makers, making music from the inside out.”

These classes aren’t just beneficial for your baby. Palomo has two graduate degrees in counseling and says he decided to teach Music Together classes because he saw how music supported bonding between parents and children. He says it’s a way of weaving family ties through music.

Palomo’s classes are in Summit County, but there are also similar classes for families who live in Cuyahoga County.

For example, Sing & Swing NEO offers music and yoga classes to families on the East and West Sides of Cleveland.

Take a look around your own city while you’re researching. Many local public libraries provide educational classes for infants and babies, too.

For example, libraries such as Rocky River had a program called “Baby and Me” that’s a lap-sit involving board books, songs and rhymes. They also have “Play, Learn and Grow,” which is a free play time with a huge selection of toys, building bricks and puzzles.

Puzzles can really help educate little minds. That’s one of the many items Amanda Stone of Avon uses for her two children, Lucas, 3, and 1-year-old Audrey.

“We read books every night before bed,” Stone says. “With Lucas, at about 18 months we started to do flash cards, sight words, alphabet and numbers. This really helped him, and he loved when we celebrated getting each flash card right.”

Currently, many libraries and other programs are offering virtual interactive

opportunities for families. There are also online resources, too. Stone says the app Starfall ABCs was beneficial for Lucas’ development, so she plans to use it again with Audrey, although she’s aware that every baby is different.

“When I was a first-time mom I was so concerned about what other babies my son’s age were doing, what milestones they were hitting and he wasn’t,” Stone says. “My biggest piece of advice to a new mom is try not to compare your baby’s progress with other children. Comparing will just take away from the amazing things that your baby does every day.”

Churbock agrees. “Normal development is such a spectrum, and every child has their own timeline for developing,” she says. “Try to avoid comparing your child to other children in the same age group or even siblings because every child is going to be a little different and unique.

Also, don’t compare yourself to other parents.”

Most importantly, always remember the amazing job you’re already doing.

“I think parents don’t hear often enough how good (of ) a job they are doing,” Churbock says. “Classes are a wonderful way to engage and expose babies to new things, but I hope parents realize all the good things they’re already doing at home that promote their baby’s development and learning.”

Don’t forget, you can make education fun. Being a parent is no easy task. So, moms and dads, make sure you have a blast along the way.

Jessica Dill is a broadcast journalist turned blogger. The Cleveland native, an award-winning TV news anchor and reporter, is taking a quick break from television to be home with her husband, Michael, and their new baby, Vivian. Learn more at jessicalynndill.com.

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HEY PARENTS

HWe hear you.

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We asked our readers and online followers to weigh in on their favorite family-friendly spots — local businesses, attractions, family services and more — in the fIfth annual Northeast Ohio Parent Choice Awards. A record number of parents voiced their opinions during the nomination period in March and the final voting period in May. While some longtime favorites topped the ballots once again this year, they’re joined by several new honorees. Some of these locations may be closed or currently offer restricted services, but we are still highlighting them here as family favorites to look forward to in the future. Here they are: this year’s winners and finalists.

BY DENISE KOETH

Choice Awards Winner Family Living Living at at Its Its Best Best 28 || Family 28

2020

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BEST OHIO STAYCATION DESTINATION WINNER: Hocking Hills Connect with nature — and your family — with a trip to Hocking Hills, located in nearby Logan, where you can hike, canoe and zip line, plus explore caves, waterfalls and more.

Not sure where to start? Check out favorites like Old Man’s Cave, Ash Cave or Cedar Falls hiking trail.

There’s also shops, restaurants and plenty of attractions that cater to families. Lodging options vary between camping, glamping and hotel stays, with a slew of campgrounds, cabin rentals and nearby hotels from which to choose. explorehockinghills.com FINALISTS:

Cedar Point H An overnight or long weekend trip to Sandusky’s Cedar Point feels like worlds away, with picturesque sandy beaches along the shores of Lake Erie, the wet and wild Cedar Point Shores water park, and the entertainment and thrill rides offered by the amusement park itself. While older kids and teens will enjoy the park’s highspeed thrills, there’s plenty of fun for the littlest guests, too. Stay at Hotel Breakers, rent a cottage at Lighthouse Point or book a room at a Cedar Point resort to get special packages and exclusive park benefits. cedarpoint.com

Kalahari H Kalahari’s Sandusky

location features a mix of rides, slides and adventures, plus accommodations that will please the whole family. The resort offers indoor and outdoor water parks, an Outdoor Adventure Park and an array of attractions for children of all ages, plus amenities such as Spa Kalahari & Salon and dining options. kalahariresorts.com/ohio

Put-in-Bay H Off the shores of Lake Erie on South Bass Island lies Put-inBay, a close-to-home getaway with a lively entertainment scene, historic sites, breathtaking water views and plenty of lodging options. Summer weekends offer different themes, including Pyrate Fest, booming fireworks, art fairs and historical reenactments. putinbay.com

PHOTO COURTESY OF CITY OF SHAKER HEIGHTS

BEST TOWN TO RAISE A FAMILY

WINNER: Shaker Heights

Walkable neighborhoods, exceptional schools, ample parks and bike trails, and a unique mix of suburban and urban living are just a few of the assets residents of historic Shaker Heights love. Located close to downtown Cleveland and the city’s beloved cultural institutions, Shaker Heights itself boasts a blend of quiet, tree-lined streets and vibrant retail and dining areas. From Shaker Square to the Van Aken District, the community offers a blend of chain and locally owned shops, restaurants and businesses. Add in amenities like a library, arts council, historical society, nature center and more, and it’s no wonder Shaker Heights took the top honors in this category. shakeronline.com FINALISTS:

Lakewood H With its Lake Erie shoreline, proximity to downtown Cleveland and the cool vibes of its retail and dining scene, Lakewood is a happening place that a new generation of parents calls home. It’s also family-focused, from its schools, libraries and parks to great annual events both kids and adults love. onelakewood.com

Solon H Solon is no stranger to “best of” lists, with Solon City Schools

consistently rated as one of the top public school districts in Ohio and the nation. Add a plethora of shopping and dining options, plus playgrounds, parks and golf courses, and there are ample family-friendly amenities available to residents and visitors alike. solonohio.org

Westlake H Home to the best of both worlds — shopping mecca Crocker

Park, plus city park and metroparks green spaces — this vibrant city on the West Side of Cleveland offers plenty to do. A bustling dining and entertainment scene, plus a strong business community, make Westlake an ideal place for families to work, shop and play. cityofwestlake.org

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H H H H H H H

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Stay Active!

BEST PLACE FOR FAMILY FITNESS WINNER: YMCA

With dozens of locations in the region, the YMCA’s fitness facilities, swimming pools, camps, programming and more are convenient and close to home. At every age and every level of activity, you’ll find people just like you looking to live a little bit healthier. Members and program participants often cite the support and enthusiasm of fellow participants and staff as some of the key factors in their achievement of greater well-being. ymca.net FINALISTS:

Adrenaline Monkey H People of all ages and fitness

levels can get in a good workout at Adrenaline Monkey, located in Warrensville Heights. A two- or three-hour Adventure Pass grants access to the heart-pumping ninja courses, parkour-inspired courses, aerial ropes and rock climbing walls. adrenalinemonkeyfun.com PHOTO COURTESY OF GOLDFISH SWIM SCHOOL

BEST PLACE FOR SWIM LESSONS WINNER: Goldfish Swim School

Created by parents, for parents, five Northeast Ohio locations share a common goal: to give kids the platform to build essential life skills that will help them make waves in life. Kids ages 4 months to 12 years enjoy the award-winning tropical environment and shiver-free, 90-degree pools where they overcome their fears, learn to swim, respect the water and have lots of fun while doing it. Goldfish also offers special family swim events, hosts children’s birthday parties and more. goldfishswimschool.com FINALISTS:

Aqua-Tots H Located in Westlake, Aqua-Tots offers year-

round, indoor swim lessons for ages 4 months to 12 years, plus family-focused details like a comfortable waiting area, fully stocked changing room, flexible schedules, makeup lessons and much more. aqua-tots.com

Mandel JCC H At its indoor and outdoor pools, the Mandel

JCC of Cleveland, located in Beachwood, offers American Red Cross-certified swim lessons with a 1:5 teacher to student ratio, as well as water exercise classes and aquatics personal training. There’s something for all members of the family to enjoy. mandeljcc.org

YMCA H With dozens of Northeast Ohio locations, the YMCA

has long been a staple for swim lessons and family fitness.

Nationally certified instructors teach youth, teens and adults to swim, so they can stay safe around water and learn the skills they need to make swimming a lifelong pursuit for staying healthy. ymca.net

Lifetime Fitness H With a location in Beachwood, this

fitness facility is more than a gym — it’s a luxury athletic resort. You’ll find indoor and outdoor pools, group fitness studios, dedicated kids spaces, a cafe and more. lifetime.life

Mandel JCC H The Mandel JCC, located in

Beachwood, offers a comprehensive approach to fitness, with classes, weights, cardio equipment, pilates and yoga studios, an indoor track, racquetball courts, and a gymnasium. It also offers on-staff trainers, plus massages, whirlpools, steam rooms and saunas. mandeljcc.org

BEST FAMILY SPORTS OUTING WINNER: Cleveland Indians

Clevelanders can’t wait to head back to Progressive field so they can root for the home team. Catching a Tribe game with the family in tow makes for great memories, especially if you pay a visit to the Kids Clubhouse, located on the Family Deck. Be sure to check the schedule for games that feature discounted kids tickets, concession deals or fun giveaways. indians.com FINALISTS:

Cleveland Cavaliers H Cheer on the Wine & Gold

at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse and instill a love of the game in your kiddos. Join the Cavs Kids Club, for ages 12 and younger, and get an activity book, plus access to exclusive events and behind-the-scenes programs. cavs.com

Cleveland Monsters H From Family Days games

to the Monsters Kid Nation club, there are plenty of family-focused perks to enjoy with our local American Hockey League team. It’s also an exciting, in-person way to introduce your kiddos to the sport of hockey. clevelandmonsters.com

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BEST PARK OR PLACE TO EXPLORE NATURE WINNER: Holden Arboretum

Named as an Important Bird Area by the Audubon Society, with more than 20 miles of hiking trails, the Holden Arboretum is a haven for bird watchers as well hikers, gardeners and nature enthusiasts. Become one with the trees by trekking the Murch Canopy Walk and take in breathtaking views of the surrounding area — all the way to Lake Erie — atop the Kalberer Emergent Tower.

Families shouldn’t miss the Habitat Hut, filled with activities to help young children explore a bog, prairie, stream and woodland.

With 3,500 acres and more than 120,000 documented plants, there’s something for everyone to discover. holdenarb.org FINALISTS:

Lake Erie Nature & Science Center H

Providing free admission seven days a week and performing wildlife rehabilitation at no charge to the public, LENSC offers nature, environmental and science experiences through school field trips; preschool, family and scouting programs; its planetarium; nature hikes; a variety of wildlife exhibits; and domestic and wildlife close encounters. lensc.org

Lake Metroparks Farmpark H Experience a

real, interactive farm by touring the dairy parlor and processing room; meeting goats, pigs and sheep in the Well Bred Shed; and seeing different breeds and sizes of horses in the stables. Horse or tractor-drawn wagons offer visitors rides to all destinations throughout the park, located in Kirtland. lakemetroparks.com/parks-trails/ farmpark

Nature Center at Shaker Lakes H Founded

in 1966 to prevent a highway from destroying treasured green space, today the nature center welcomes more than 40,000 annual visitors to its 20 acres. See native species in their natural habitats, participate in family-focused events, hike serene trails and enjoy the new ADAaccessible All People’s Trail. shakerlakes.org

North Chagrin Reservation H Located in

Mayfield Village, Willoughby Hills and Gates Mills, this Cleveland Metroparks reservation includes a nature center and nature education building.

The center features a variety of native liveanimal exhibits, a children’s play area, multiple wildlife viewing areas, and a Nature Shop.

Also check out Sanctuary Marsh and Sunset Pond, popular areas to observe waterfowl. clevelandmetroparks.com

32 | Family Living at Its Best

BEST POOL OR SPLASH PAD WINNER: Beachwood Family Aquatic Center

This 99,000-square-foot facility welcomes Beachwood residents, employees and their guests, and it includes an impressive array of family-friendly amenities: four water slides, a current channel, diving boards, splash pads, a zero-depth entry, an adult relaxation area, lap lanes, a tot pool, a concession stand and more. Available lessons include public swimming lessons, synchronized swimming and a diving program. beachwoodohio.com FINALISTS: Crocker Park Splash Pad H Splash Zone, located in the lifestyle center’s West Park area and sponsored by Lake Ridge Academy, lets parents take a break from shopping while kids cool off and have fun. The splash pad also is home to light shows on Friday and Saturday evenings. crockerpark.com

BEST PLAYGROUND WINNER: Lakewood Park

The crown jewel of the Lakewood Parks system, this 31-acre lakefront park offers pools, tennis courts, sand volleyball courts, a playground area, bandstand, Lakefront Promenade, picnic areas, pavilions, softball fields, and the Lakewood Skatepark. When your children are done burning off energy at the Kid Cove Playground area, don’t miss the chance to catch a sunset at the awe-inspiring Solstice Steps, which curve along the park’s shoreline and offer spectacular views of Lake Erie. onelakewood.com FINALISTS:

Liberty Playground, Independence H Renovated in 2018, Liberty Playground boasts several slides, climbing walls, a rope venture vertex, comet spinners and two racing ziplines — in fact, it’s the first facility in Ohio to have dual lines. The equipment is placed in a contiguous line to simulate an obstacle course. independenceohio.org

Preston’s H.O.P.E H This Beachwood mega-playground is for PHOTO COURTESY OF HOLDEN ARBORETUM

children of all ages and abilities. Located at the Mandel JCC, Preston’s H.O.P.E. includes Imagination Village, with makebelieve houses that are connected by a raised walkway; Play Theatre; and Sand Area, as well as play areas with swings, tunnels and slides. prestonshope.com

BEST ANIMAL VISIT

Goldfish Swim School H The bright colors,

friendly atmosphere and shiver-free 90 degree pool let kids focus on having fun, while they’re actually learning lifesaving swimming skills. Goldfish, with five area locations, offers year-round swim lessons for children ages 4 months to 12 years, plus open swim sessions and special events. goldfishswimschool.com

Water Works Family Aquatic Center H Keep cool in the lazy river, work out in the deep end, or find fun on the exhilarating slides in this close-to-home water park in Cuyahoga Falls. Memberships or daily passes are available to residents and nonresidents alike. cityofcf.com

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE CITY OF BEACHWOOD

WINNER:

Cleveland Metroparks Zoo

Meet animals from around the world and learn how you can secure a future for wildlife at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. Feed a giraffe right out of your hand, get close to Amur tigers, trek through the RainForest, or check out the all-new Daniel Maltz Rhino Reserve. Unlock your adventure with KeyBank ZooKeys to learn more about your favorite animals. Give your feet a rest on the Circle of Wildlife Carousel or Boomerang Line. clevelandmetroparks.com/zoo FINALISTS:

Akron Zoo H The tagline “You’ve Never Been This Close”

couldn’t be more true, as the Akron Zoo’s layout and exhibit spaces let visitors get nose-to-nose with hundreds of rare and exotic animals from around the world. Families won’t want to miss Grizzly Ridge, Pride of Africa and the upcoming opening of Wild Asia. akronzoo.org

Lake Metroparks Farmpark H Kids can learn about where

their food and clothing comes from, as well as the care required for farm animals, at this popular spot in Kirtland.

In addition to the arena, barnyard, shepherd’s field and more facilities, the cafe, wagon rides and Showman’s Circle playground will make you want to spend the whole day at the Farmpark. lakemetroparks.com/parks-trails/farmpark

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Can't Miss

BEST INDOOR PLAY PLACE WINNER: Children’s Museum of Cleveland

CMC has been welcoming energetics kids — and their parents — for nearly three years after reopening at its new home, the historic Stager-Beckwith mansion in Cleveland’s Midtown neighborhood. There’s ample room to run, climb, discover and just have fun in the museum’s seven exhibit spaces: Wonder Lab, Adventure City, Making Miniatures, Arts & Parts, The Meadow, Playlist and Theater. Its interactive staff, storytimes and special events add to the experience. cmcleveland.org FINALISTS:

Cafe O’Play H Located in Stow, this elaborate play place’s main

attraction is the climbing structure, which consists of colorful tubes, slides, obstacle courses, ramps and stairs. A toddler play area entertains kids up to age 4 and offers cushions, ramps, toys and a small climbing structure. cafeoplay.com

Play Day Cafe H This Solon play spot offers a multilevel

playground, toddler playground, interactive game floor, ball blaster area, Wiggle Car track and more. Refuel in the cafe and recharge in the lounge area to extend your visit. playdaycafe.com

PHOTO COURTESY OF CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF CLEVELAND

Wittle Town H Designed for children ages 5 and younger, this

Sheffield Village play space focuses on imaginative and cognitive play, while incorporating the charm of Main Street U.S.A. Kids can cruise down the street in one of the provided cars and visit the diner, grocery store, animal hospital and more. wittletown.com PHOTO COURTESY OF CLEVELAND

METROPARKS ZOO, PHOTO CREDIT

KYLE LANZER

BEST SENSORYFRIENDLY OUTING WINNER: Cleveland Metroparks Zoo

In partnership with KultureCity, the zoo offers additional tools for guests with sensory needs, including the designation of six “quiet zones,” marking on the map several “headphone zones” where loud noises are present, and providing guests with sensory bags. The bags contain optional identification cards, fidget tools and noise-reducing headphones. clevelandmetroparks.com/zoo FINALISTS:

Akron Zoo H The zoo has partnered with KultureCity to

provide amenities like sensory bags containing fidget tools, noise-canceling headphones and other resources; weighted lap pads; quiet zones and headphone zones; and a social story that can be viewed and printed from its website. akronzoo.org

Children’s Museum of Cleveland H CMC has

partnered with Monarch Center for Autism’s Welcoming Spaces Program to develop customized visual, social, communicative, sensory and behavioral supports throughout the museum. There’s also a dedicated SensoryFriendly Room. cmcleveland.org

34 | Family Living at Its Best

BEST MUSEUM WINNER: Cleveland Museum of Art

This top-rated art museum, an anchor in the culturallyrich University Circle neighborhood, lets visitors explore the expansive galleries or check out a family-focused event like Saturday Art Stories or Sunday Open Studios for Families.

General admission to tour the roughly 4,500 pieces on view (from the 61,000 total objects in CMA’s collection) is free, while ticketed special exhibitions rotate regularly. It’s easy to spend an entire day at the museum, especially when you factor in time to browse the Art Store and grab a meal at the delectable Provenance or Provenance Cafe. clevelandart.org FINALISTS:

Children’s Museum of Cleveland H CMC lets kids splash,

climb, build, create, explore and more — all while learning and having fun. Exhibits include Wonder Lab, where water and science combine; Adventure City, which encourages pretend play and limitless imagination; Making Miniatures, a fascinating collection of dollhouses; the Arts & Parts art studio; the Meadow for ages birth through 3; and the Playlist and Theater rooms for imaginative play and performance. cmcleveland.org

Cleveland Museum of Natural History H Families delve deep

into the past in the dinosaur hall, discover the outer reaches of the universe in Shafran Planetarium, and experience natural wonders and creature features in the Perkins Wildlife Center. Children can experience hands-on learning in Smead Discovery Center, where the motto is “please touch!” cmnh.org

Great Lakes Science Center H Science, technology,

engineering and math come alive and encourage all ages to “stay curious.” In addition to special traveling exhibitions and hundreds of hands-on exhibits, GLSC is home to the NASA Glenn Visitor Center, the Cleveland Clinic DOME Theater, the historic Steamship William G. Mather, the Cleveland Creates Zone, and the kid-focused Polymer Funhouse. greatscience.com

BEST PLACE TO HAVE A PARTY

BEST PLACE FOR TWEEN/TEEN ADVENTURE WINNER: Cedar Point

PHOTO COURTESY OF SKYZONE

WINNER: Sky Zone Four area Sky Zone locations offer several out-ofthis-world birthday and special event party packages to elevate any party — literally. Each includes jump time, refreshments and a staff coordinator to help with planning. A Sky Zone party leaves the kids, not the parents, worn out. All mom and dad have to do is show up and have a great time — one that the birthday child and their friends will remember for years. skyzone.com FINALISTS:

Goldfish Swim School H Nothing says “party” like

a 90-degree swimming pool decked out exclusively for a little boy or girl on their special day. For parents, nothing says “easy” like having the Goldfish team at one of five area locations handle all the details and cleanup. goldfishswimschool.com

RollHouse H With private party suites, premium

bowling lanes, a massive arcade and escape rooms, four Northeast Ohio Rollhouse locations are the perfect backdrop for a party. Packages of varying levels include bowling, shoe rental, video game cards and refreshments for guests, all coordinated by an in-house party planner. therollhouse.com

Thrive Arts Center H You bring the kids and the

food, and Thrive, located in Beachwood, provides the fun. A two-hour party for up to 20 children includes Kindermusik, dance or art activities followed by food, drink, cake and laughter. thrivearts.center

Wittle Town H Enjoy two hours in a dedicated party room, pizza and drinks, and all the fun you can have in the indoor play space for ages 5 and younger at this facility, located in Sheffield Village. Three different birthday party packages ensure a fit for all budgets and guest lists, and a number of special customizations are available. wittletown.com

Affectionately known as “America’s Roller Coast,” Cedar Point offers teens and tweens independence while navigating the park themselves, making their way through more than a dozen high-speed roller coasters, experiencing thrill rides, and even taking a splash break at Cedar Point Shores water park.

Stay at Cedar Point all day, and it’s likely that you’ll still run out of time to do it all. cedarpoint.com FINALISTS:

Adrenaline Monkey H

BEST KID’S HAIRCUT

WINNER: Cookie Cutters

From the slide and touchscreen play unit in the waiting area to the TVs, video games and fantasy chairs on the cutting floor, expert staff is waiting to provide kids with a oneof-a-kind experience at this Brunswick salon. Save when you bring in multiple children on the same day, and earn points with each visit through the loyalty program. Services offered include cuts and styles for mom and dad, too. haircutsarefun.com

An Adventure Pass lets guests of all ages and fitness levels put their skills to the test at this Warrensville Heights spot, but teens and tweens will especially love the ninja courses, parkour, aerial ropes and rock climbing walls.

Check out additional options like camps, the after school program, Warrior League and more. adrenalinemonkeyfun. com

FINALISTS:

Sky Zone H Teens and tweens

Great Clips H Several area

love stretching boundaries, and that includes testing the limits of gravity. At four area Sky Zone locations, kids can experience a Skyslam dunk contest, enjoy the zipline and trapeze, compete in Ultimate Dodgeball, or just plain jump the day away. skyzone.com

Topgolf H At Topgolf

Cleveland, located in Independence, guests can enjoy 100 climate-controlled hitting bays, full-service dining, a rooftop terrace, more than 200 HDTVs and free Wi-Fi. Tween and teen sports enthusiasts will enjoy perfecting their swing in this laid-back environment. topgolf.com/us/cleveland

Cuts N Curls H This Solon

adult and children’s hair salon also is a toy boutique and party place all wrapped up into one package. Kids pass the time with snacks, video games and movies, and younger guests sit in specially equipped car salon chairs. Services also include ear piercing, nails and more. cutsncurls.net locations and convenient online check-in make this walk-in hair care salon great for busy families.

Services include haircuts, trims and styling for all ages. greatclips.com

Snip-Its H When kids check

in at the Avon or Hudson locations, they receive a Snip-Its Adventure Club card and are welcomed with an interactive Snip-Its sing-along video. From there, amenities include kid-sized styling chairs, kid-friendly products, games and movies, magic box prizes and more. snipits.com

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Explore the Arts

H

FINALISTS:

Beck Center for the Arts H This Lakewood nonprofit organization

BEST PLACE TO EXPLORE MUSIC

WINNER:

The Music Settlement

TMS is a centuriesold community music school forged out of the settlement movement as a way to welcome immigrants to Cleveland and unite them through the common language of music. Since its founding in 1912, it has grown from its foundation of music instruction to also offering early childhood education and music therapy services.

Through locations in University Circle and Ohio City, as well as its Bop Stop performance venue, TMS caters to a diverse clientele, from children as young as 3 weeks old to retired adults and veterans. themusicsettlement.org

combines professional theater with arts education to create art experiences as individual as the people it serves. It offers 300-plus classes, lessons and programs for all ages and abilities in dance, music, theater and visual arts, as well as offerings in outreach education and creative arts therapies. beckcenter.org

Kindermusik H With classes available at several area venues,

Kindermusik’s active music-making helps children develop balance, coordination, listening skills and literacy. Its music and movement programs are available for infants through age 7, including special needs sessions. kindermusik.com

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame H Head downtown and give your kiddos a proper music education at the “house that rock built,” whose mission it is to engage, teach and inspire through the power of rock and roll. Kids can learn the stories of the people, events and songs that shape our world through exhibits, innovative programs and concerts. rockhall.com

Thrive Arts Center H In addition to Kindermusik classes,

Beachwood’s Thrive Arts Center offers instrument and voice lessons that encourage, foster and nurture a young musician’s personal growth. Instructors are trained to understand each child’s learning style and personality for a true student-centered experience. thrivearts.center

PHOTO COURTESY OF

THE MUSIC SETTLEMENT, PHOTO CREDIT

SHARON HUGHES

36 | Family Living at Its Best

H H H H H H H

BEST LIVE THEATER EXPERIENCE FOR KIDS BEST DANCE STUDIO WINNER: Cleveland City Dance Cleveland City Dance has offered quality dance instruction since 1965 to nurture students’ talents and passions in ballet, jazz, tap, modern and more.

Classes run six days a week and include in-studio and virtual instruction year-round. Parents and supporters can observe classes through viewing windows in the state-ofthe-art facility in Cleveland’s Shaker Square. Students of all ages celebrate their hard work through annual spring performances, including in-studio and larger theater venues. clevelandcitydance.net FINALISTS:

Arlene Cassara Dance & Theater Center H Located in

North Olmsted, the studio’s goal is to encourage all students, instill confidence, and develop strong stage and theater presence. Classes are available for kids, teens and adults at all levels in ballet, combo, contemporary, hip hop, jazz, musical theater, pointe and tap. arlenecassaradance.com

PHOTO COURTESY OF PLAYHOUSE SQUARE

FINALISTS:

Beck Center for the Arts H Located

in Lakewood, Beck Center for the Arts is a performing arts and arts education organization that combines professional theatrical productions with comprehensive curriculum-based arts education in creative arts therapies, dance, music, theater and visual arts. The nonprofit serves more than 60,000 in five Northeast Ohio counties. beckcenter.org

Magical Theatre Co. H This award-

WINNER: Playhouse Square Look for the larger-than-life GE Chandelier hanging over Euclid Avenue and you’ll know your family has arrived at Playhouse Square, the country’s largest performing arts center outside of New York.

Each year, the not-for-profit performing arts center in Cleveland attracts more than 1 million guests, making it a hotspot for parent date nights and family outings alike. Don’t miss the annual Family Theater Day, designed to introduce the world of live theater to the next generation. playhousesquare.org

winning Barberton company is committed to artistic excellence by employing professional actors, designers and directors whose credentials include work from Broadway to Hollywood. Its resident productions, touring shows, camps and educational programming are created to nurture the mind and spirit of young people. magicaltheatre.org

Talespinner Children’s Theatre H This professional children’s theater

in Cleveland develops and produces imaginative, interactive, professional works for children. At any time, these pieces may involve acting, dance, music, puppetry, tumbling, drumming and numerous other artistic disciplines. talespinnerchildrenstheatre.org

Grace in Motion Dance Studio H Grace in Motion, located in

Stow, offers an environment centered around encouragement, artistry and grace. Serving ages 2.5 to adult, the studio uses only family-friendly music and ageappropriate costumes during class and in costumed recitals at the end of the dance year. graceinmotionstudio.com

Thrive Arts Center H In addition to music and art lessons, this Beachwood arts center offers a variety of dance classes for kids of all ages. With more than 20 years of expertise in music and movement, its dedicated staff is focused on nurturing personal growth and offers individuallycurated experiences that allow children to grow and learn. thrivearts.center

PHOTO COURTESY OF CLEVELAND CITY DANCE

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Going the extra mile for good medicine.

For over 30 years, Senders Pediatrics has combined exceptional care and toplevel experience with a warm, welcoming environment and parent-friendly hours.

Extended weekday hours Open weekends | Walk-in hours Senders Pediatrics also offers a O P T 1 range of unique support services BRIGHT VERSIONS under one roof.

CO LO R

Once upon a child

Clinical trials to make tomorrow’s medicine available today.

- full color WE’RE ALWAYS ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS.

38 | Family Living at Its Best

Tools to encourage a self-assured approach to parenting.

Choice Awards

Choice Awards Winner 2019 2020

Medical solutions that help make breastfeeding work for mother and baby.

Providing quality care and adhering to the highest value based standards.

Connect with our online resources: www. senderspediatrics.com - black & white Senders Pediatrics 2054 S. Green Road South Euclid, OH 44121 Phone: 216-291-9210 Fax: 216-291-9422

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Stay Healthy

+

BEST PEDIATRICIAN

WINNER: Senders Pediatrics

BEST PREGNANCY/POSTPARTUM CARE FOR MOMS AND FAMILIES

This independent practice in South Euclid is kid-friendly with the goal of easing anxieties about coming to the doctor. Its lobby houses a two-story tree house — complete with a 16-foot wavy slide — and has a separate waiting room equipped with computers for teens. Each exam room has its own age-specific decor, books and toys that make visits fun and comfortable. senderspediatrics.com

WINNER: Pink Newborn Services

FINALISTS:

FINALISTS:

thorough, caring and has a sense of humor, which puts parents and kids at ease at Cleveland Clinic’s Independence Family Health Center. my.clevelandclinic.org

education, doula support and placenta encapsulation. Once a baby is born, parents can receive physical and emotional support during postpartum recovery. clebaby.com

Dr. Eva Kubiczek-Love H Dr. Eva Kubiczek-Love is

Dr. Stephen Wexberg H Dr. Stephen Wexberg provides

knowledgeable, expert care while relating to patients on a personal level at the Cleveland Clinic’s Beachwood Family Health Center. my.clevelandclinic.org

Kids in the Sun H Kids in the Sun is a Broadview Heights

practice in University Hospitals Rainbow Care Network that uses state-of-the-art medicine to provide advanced care along with advanced caring. kidsinthesun.com

BEST FAMILY DENTIST WINNER (TIE):

The company empowers families by providing information, education and resources through its meticulously selected team, including newborn care specialist, overnight newborn care/night nanny, postpartum doula, certified lactation counselor, sleep specialist, parenting educator, nannies and more. pinknewbornservices.com

CLEBaby H Services for expectant parents include childbirth

Katie DiMonico Sleep Consulting H With an approach that’s

nonjudgmental, encouraging and customized to fit individual children and families, mother of two and Certified Sleep Sense Consultant DiMonico is committed to helping families achieve the sleep their minds and bodies need. kdsleepconsulting.com

Nurtured Foundation H Nurtured Foundation strives to provide

the nonjudgmental support and education needed to navigate through pregnancy, childbirth and postpartum. Its services include birth and postpartum doulas, newborn care specialists, overnight care, placenta encapsulation, in-home lactation support, in-home postpartum and prenatal massage, and more. nurturedfoundation.com

Dr. Trista’s Children’s Dentistry

Specializing in small smiles, at this Lyndhurst pediatric dentist office, Dr. Trista Onesti and her staff help children create an early foundation for strong dental health. Because they specialize in pediatric dentistry, the staff is uniquely able to meet the needs of children in a fun, safe, encouraging and familyfriendly environment. The newly remodeled space is clean, bright and modern with nautical accents. drtristasmiles.com

Solon Pediatric Dentistry

Dr. Jackie Beard and her staff take pride in providing a good experience for both parents and children.

Beard provides specialized care for infants, children and teens in a warm and compassionate environment and is dedicated to walking alongside families in establishing healthy habits. The office’s location and hours were chosen while keeping in mind the convenience desired by busy families. solonpediatricdentistry.com FINALISTS:

Brunswick KiDDS H Board certified pediatric dentists

Milton Ntragatakis and Brittany Heffernan, and the staff of Brunswick KiDDs, place patient care as the top priority, regularly attending seminars and conferences devoted to new treatments and technologies. brunswickkidds.com

Explorer Pediatric Dentistry H With services tailored to

meet the specific needs of kids, Dr. Julie Rudgers Croft and her staff see children from infancy through their teenage years in this Hudson practice. Services include preventive care, restorative dentistry, sedation dentistry, limited orthodontics, laser dentistry and more. explorerdentistry.com

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til ' p op o r Sh u D Yo

H

HH

BEST STORE TO BUY CHILDREN’S BOOKS WINNER: The Learned Owl Book Shop

This locally owned bookseller in Hudson offers three floors of books for all ages and interests. If a book is not in stock, it usually can be ordered; the store also offers an out-of-print search service. The Learned Owl also hosts special events and offers several Wise Readers Club options, each of which provide newly released books on a monthly subscription basis for club members. learnedowl.com

FINALISTS:

Appletree Books H Since 1975, Appletree Books has been

offering an eclectic, well-curated selection of new book titles in multiple genres for both children and adults. The Cleveland Heights store also carries greeting cards, journals, letterpress cards and notecards, in addition to puzzles, bookends, candles and small gift items. appletree-books.com

Fireside Book Shop H This downtown Chagrin Falls staple

offers three floors of books for all ages, plus puzzles, gifts and more, with a special focus on regional and local authors. A trade-in program helps to stock the used book section of the store. firesidebookshop.com

Loganberry Books H This bookstore in the historic

Larchmere neighborhood of Cleveland features a carefully curated collection of new, used and rare books in all genres for both readers and collectors. With an inventory of more than 100,000 volumes, the store also offers a perks program, book of the month club and more. loganberrybooks.com

BEST KID-FRIENDLY SHOPPING AREA WINNER: Crocker Park

Parents love the nearly 100 retail stores, while kids love the splash pad, train rides and wide open green spaces throughout this shopping paradise in Westlake. When everyone’s worked up an appetite, choose from more than 35 eateries and restaurants that cater to every taste and price point. Frequent special events include kid-friendly activities, live music, a farmers market, food trucks, outdoor movies and more. crockerpark.com FINALISTS:

Hudson First & Main H Located in the heart of historic

downtown Hudson, this picturesque shopping center offers a blend of national chains, locally owned shops and awardwinning restaurants. Summer brings live music, familyfriendly events and more, all nestled among 25 retail stores and eight restaurants and eateries. firstandmainhudson.com

Legacy Village H Shop, eat and play at this Lyndhurst hot spot, which also offers great family-friendly events like live music, a farmers market, touch-a-truck days, Food Truck Mondays and more. Parents and kids will enjoy its 35-plus retail stores and a dozen spots to grab a quick snack or a meal. legacyvillage.com

Pinecrest H Located in Orange Village, Pinecrest blends the best national and emerging brands to showcase soughtafter apparel, home and specialty stores, chef-driven restaurants and incredible entertainment venues. Shop ’til you drop, grab a bite to eat, see a movie, play bocce and more, as well as attend unique family-focused events. discoverpinecrest.com

Summit Mall H While many traditional malls across the

country are losing tenants, Summit Mall, located in Fairlawn, has grown by leaps and bounds in recent years. In addition to its nearly 100 retail stores and 16 restaurants, familyfriendly amenities include a kids’ play area, carousel, family restrooms, special events and the Family at Summit Mall program. simon.com/mall/summit-mall PHOTO COURTESY OF STARK ENTERPRISES

FamilyLiving Livingat atIts ItsBest Best 40 || Family 40

BEST LOCAL PLACE TO FIND

BEST TOY STORE WINNER: Playmatters At its locations in Pepper Pike and Solon, friendly and expert staff help shoppers choose the perfect toy for every age and interest. Playmatters carries building toys, puzzles, dolls, games and more from the best toymakers around the globe, all of which encourage a broad range of learning and skill sets to help children develop. For gift ideas, check out the company’s seasonal catalogs online or in store. playmatterstoys.com FINALISTS:

Lakeshore Learning H

Educators and parents alike love Lakeshore Learning for its wide array of products, including art supplies, books, games, imaginary play, active play and more. At its Beachwood location, you’re sure to find something that’s perfect for all the children on your shopping list, no matter their age or interests. lakeshorelearning.com

Learning Express H With

locations in Westlake and Strongsville, the goal of Learning Express is to help children learn through play. The unmatched toy selection, including the most popular toy brands, is paired with colorful decor and sample products for kids to play with while mom and dad shop. learningexpress.com

Off the Wagon H Parents will

feel nostalgic and kids will be thoroughly entertained with a visit to this one-of-a-kind shop in Kent. Specializing in gag gifts, pop culture paraphernalia and unique games, Off the Wagon also carries a large selection of toys, both new and retro, for kids of all ages. offthewagonshop.com

PHOTO COURTESY OF PLAYMATTERS

A BABYSITTER/CHILDCARE WINNER: The Nanny Connection

BEST CHILDREN’S RESALE SHOP WINNER:

Once Upon a Child

With several locations in Northeast Ohio, Once Upon a Child carries brand name, gently used clothing, shoes, baby gear, furniture, toys and games, and more — so you can recycle your children's nearly new items and get paid on the spot.

Cleaning out your kids’ closets is easy: Just check out what Once Upon a Child is looking to buy, visit your nearest location and turn those items into cash.

Or, trade them in for things you need now. onceuponachild.com

The Nanny Connection opened its doors in Hudson in 2004 with the goal of finding qualified local nannies for local families needing full- or part-time child care.

Since then, its services have expanded to include an on-call babysitting service, nanny share and summer nanny placements, as well as a la carte background screening, business back-up care and event care. yournannyconnection.com FINALISTS:

Pink Nannies H In order to continue to support its

clients and their changing needs, the company’s care extended to include nanny services for children of all ages: full- and part-time, newborn care, sitters, mother’s helper and wedding/event care. pinknannies. com

Sitting Made Simple H Whether you need a last

minute babysitter, summer sitting, or before and after school care, SMS has you covered. The locally owned and operated service offers the perfect balance of access to online software and a local office for support. sittingmadesimple.com

Ondecare H Care services for newborns, infants,

children, the elderly and individuals with special needs, in addition to offering respite care. Providers undergo certification verifications, reference checks, interviews and proprietary security checks. ondecare.com

FINALISTS:

Revolve Kids H Sell

your gently used kids’ clothing, footwear, accessories, equipment and toys to the brickand-mortar location in Lyndhurst and receive cash or credit for shopping in-person or on the company’s website. Find something for your own closet at Revolve Fashion, located next door. cleupscaleresale.com

Savers H Reuse,

recycle and upcycle at this thrift store chain with three area locations that offer quality clothing, accessories and household goods.

Items for the store are purchased from local nonprofit organizations, after which they are sorted and value priced for resale. savers.com

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AUGUST CAlenDAR Find more events at NortheastOhioParent.com

8/7, 14 & 21 s: Our Pick e Fun At-Hom al tu with Vir s Activitie

Virtual Front Porch Concert Series. A talented lineup of musical performers comprising the 10th Annual Front Porch Concert Series offer something for every musical taste. The weekly concert series from Lakewood Alive.

7 p.m. virtual concert at Facebook.com/ LakewoodAlive

Pick your DAY

MONDAY-FRIDAY

Summer Lunch for Kids. The Main Library is participating in the Summer Food Service Program. Ages 18 and under are invited to come to lunch Monday through Friday all summer long. 1-2 p.m.

Lorain Public Library, 351 W. Sixth St., 440244-1192, lorainpubliclibrary.org

TUESDAYS

Songs and Rhymes for LIttle Ones. Enjoy and follow along as Shaker Library presents Songs & Rhymes for Little Ones during the Nestlings and Fledglings storytimes, featuring Ms. Nicki & Snowball the bunny.

Visit the library’s YouTube Channel. 16500 Van Aken Blvd., 216-991-2030, shakerlibrary.org

42 | Family Living at Its Best

8/10-16

Virtual Brick Battle. So you think you’re a master builder?

Show off your original plastic brick creation (using Legos or similar building toys) in the library’s first-ever Virtual Brick Battle. Enter as an individual or as a team. Stow-Munroe Falls Public Library, 3512 Darrow Road, 330-688-3295, smfpl.org

*Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic situation, these events are subject to change. Please check with all event venues before attending to ensure times and availability are valid and to understand any health guidelines that are required.

Please follow state guidelines, including face coverings, maintaining six-feet apart from others and hand washing.

Please visit northeastohioparent.com for more upcoming events.

WEDNESDAYS

Tai Chi and Qigong. Socially distanced outdoor classes for all ages. A mask is required. These gentle forms of exercise bring about a total union of mind, body and spirit. 10-11 a.m. Coventry P.E.A.C.E. Park, 2843 Washington Blvd, Cleveland Heights, 216-321-3400, heightslibrary.org

8/26

Virtual Craft Connections.

Craft to your heart’s content.

Get creative with fun crafts you can make at home. An instructional video will explain how to make the crafts. For all ages and abilities. 10 a.m.

Barberton Public Library, 602 W. Park Ave., 330-745-1194, barberton.lib.oh.us

FRIDAYS

African Dance. Ages 5 and older have fun exploring the rhythms and expressive culture found in this art form. No previous training required. 6:05-6:55 p.m. The Fine Arts Association, 38660 Mentor Ave., Room 212, Willoughby, 440-951-7500, fineartsassociation.org

SATURDAYS

Boulevard Beats. Live music outside of Barnes & Noble with a new group, duo or soloist every week to provide an array of genres. 6-8 p.m. Eton Chagrin Boulevard, 28601 Chagrin Blvd., Woodmere, etonchagrinblvd.com Saturday Songs. A short virtual singalong for the whole family via Facebook or YouTube channel. 10-10:15 p.m. Morley Library, 184 Phelps St., Painesville, 440-352-3383, morleylibrary.org

day - by - DAY 8/3-8

Grab and Go STEAM Kit: Animal DNA Beading. As supplies last. Please call for availability. 1 p.m. South Lorain Branch Library, 2121 Homewood Drive, 440-277-5672, lorainpubliclibrary.org

8/4

Online Pictionary. Amp up the traditional Pictionary with this online version called Skribbl.

Use your finger, stylus or computer mouse to draw. Register to receive the link to join and instructions on how to play. 4-5 p.m. Wadsworth Public Library, 132 Broad St., 330-334-5761, wadsworthlibrary.com

8/4-11

Learn Spanish Through Music.

Young children ages 3-6 are invited to learn Spanish through music, which combines music and language with songs, rhythmic patterns, specific melodies and live instruments.

11 a.m.-noon. Hudson Library & Historical Society, 96 Library St., 330-653-6658, hudsonlibrary.org

8/6

Medina County Foster Care Open House. Ever thought about becoming a foster parent? To comply with current social distancing and building capacity guidelines, families must make an appointment by calling 330-635-9165. Medina County Job & Family Services, 232 Northland Drive, Medina, mcjfs.us/social-services/ fosteradopt/

Orchid Café 2739 Center Rd., Avon

8/8

8/12

8/9

River Dog Food Truck.

Grab dinner from the River Dog Food Truck.

Check the library’s website for a preorder link in the days before the event. Walk up orders are also welcome. 5-7 p.m.

Rocky River Public Library, 1600 Hampton Road, 440-333-7610, rrpl.org

Ice Cream Making Workshop. Join the son of founder Jay Lehman and president of Lehman’s, Galen Lehman, in this interactive workshop that will give you the real scoop on how to make delicious homemade ice cream. Ages 10 and up. 2-3 p.m. Lehman’s, 4779 Kidron Road, Kidon, lehmans.com

Superhero Assembly.

Join Spidey, Black Panther and Cosmic Heroine for a celebration of super strength and super skills.

5-7 p.m. Cafe O’Play, 911 Graham Road, Stow, 330-928-7517, cafeoplay.com The FEST @home. An experience that will keep everyone safe while still bringing you a high quality FEST with the same music, sponsors, entertainment, crafts and activities that you’ve come to love. 4 p.m. thefest.us

Creative Canvas for Families. Create amazing works of art using nature as your inspiration and repurposed materials as your medium via Zoom. 1-2:30 p.m. summitmetroparks.org.

Little Legacy at Legacy Village. Fun and unique programming for your little ones, in partnership with The Real PopFusion.

Located on The Lawn in between Bar Louie and California Pizza Kitchen.

10:30 a.m.-noon. 25001 Cedar Road, Lyndhurst, legacy-village.com

Now Open!

The Orchid Café at Miller Nature Preserve and the Sunset Café at Lakeview are now open for lunch!

ORCHID CAFÉ: Tues.-Sat. 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

SUNSET CAFÉ: Mon.-Fri. 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Sunset Café 1800 W. Erie Ave., Lorain

LorainCountyMetroParks.com

8/6-8

Carnation Days at Beech Creek Gardens. Celebrate Carnation Days by touring the Dr. Levi Lamborn Carnation Museum, which pays homage to Ohio’s state flower, the red carnation. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 11929 Beech St. NE, Alliance, 330-8297050, beechcreekgardens.org

8/7

Rock Painting. Pick up a kit of materials and paint a rock to hide on a trail, in a park or in your own neighborhood. Register to find out when kits are ready. 1-2 p.m. Cuyahoga Falls Library, 2015 Third St., 330-9282117, cuyahogafallslibrary.org

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August CALENDAR

8/16

Doggie Dip Day. Bring your favorite four-legged pal for a dip and enjoy some good family fun. 1-4 p.m. Civic Center Pool, 8500 Civic Center Blvd., Mentor, cityofmentor.com

8/17

Curbside Crafters: Expert Crafters. Designed for independent crafters generally aged 8-12. Avon Lake Public Library, 32649 Electric Blvd., 440-933-8128, alpl.org

8/21

Homeschool Days: Family Learning Fair. Drop in anytime to participate in fun activities and get information from Geauga County Public Library and Burton Library, Geauga Soil and Water Conservation District, Fairmount Center for the Arts and many others.

1:30-3:30 p.m. The West Woods, 9465 Kinsman Road, Russell, 440-286-9516, geaugaparkdistrict.org

With the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak, we are sharing news and events for families who are parenting through the pandemic.

Visit NortheastOhioParent.com for more information and updates.

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Paddle the Parks Sunset Cruise. Join a naturalist on the water for this paddle to take in a late summer sunset over the lake. Bring your own kayak, paddle and personal floatation device. All ages welcome.

7-8:30 p.m. Killbuck Lakes, Burbank, medinacountyparks.com

8/23

Furry Friend Fest. Enjoy an outdoor adventure with your pet through guided hikes, a

talent contest, training demos, pet vendors and services, food trucks, adoption organizations and more. All leashed pets welcome, whether a dog, cat, bird, reptile or another furry friend. Noon-4 p.m. Beech Creek Gardens, 11929 Beech St. NE, Alliance, 330-829-7050, beechcreekgardens.org

8/27

STEAM Camp Challenges.

Sign up each month to receive a STEAM Challenge Kit. The kit will contain some of the supplies to complete the various challenges. Grades K-5. 1-1:30 p.m. Reed Memorial Library, 167 E. Main St., Ravenna, 330-2962827, reedlibrary.org

8/27-29

Canton Greek Fest: DriveThru Version. Welcome to a celebration of Greek culture in greater Canton and Stark County. St. Haralambos Greek Orthodox Church, 251 25th N.W., Canton, cantongreekfest.com

THROUGH 8/31

Sips & Bites. Sip, sample and taste your way around 21 different Hudson restaurants with the new “Sips & Bites ~ A Taste of Hudson” event. Pick up a passport at any participating restaurant, City Hall or the Hudson Visitor Center & Gift Shop and begin your tour of Hudson’s culinary scene at your own pace. Hudson Library & Historical Society, 96 Library St., 330-653-6658, hudsonlibrary.org

EXHIBITS CLEVELAND BOTANICAL GARDEN

ONGOING Hershey Children’s Garden. Activate the young explorer within your children as they search for frogs and fish, observe a honeybee hive or play within an imaginative treehouse at The Hershey Children’s Garden. As your child discovers plant and animal life around them, he or she also can learn why caring for the environment is vital for everyone.11030 East Blvd., 216-721-1600, cbgarden.org

CLEVELAND METROPARKS ZOO

THROUGH 8/23 Asian Lantern Festival. Back by popular demand, the Asian Lantern Festival presented by Cleveland Clinic Children’s is returning with over 70 allnew, larger-than-life, colorful lantern displays and live performances on the Fifth Third Stage. 6:30-10:30 p.m. 3900 Wildlife Way, futureforwildlife.org

THE CLEVELAND MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY

THROUGH 10/4 “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 “Body Worlds Rx.” Through the process of Plastination, a complex preservation method that removes the fluids from the body and replaces them with reactive resins and elastomers, the specimens in this special exhibition offer guests the unique opportunity to be inspired and amazed by the inner workings of the human body. 601 Erieside Ave., Cleveland, 216-694-2000, greatscience.com

HOLDEN ARBORETUM

ONGOING Canopy Walk and Emergent Tower.

The Canopy Walk, a 500-foot-long elevated walkway built 65 feet above the forest floor, will give you a unique perspective on forests and the animals.

The Emergent Tower will take you above the trees to a height of 120 feet, where on a clear day you can see all the way to Lake Erie. 9500 Sperry Road, Kirtland, 440-946-4400, holdenarb.org

STAN HYWET HALL & GARDENS

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

THE CLEVELAND MUSEUM OF ART

THROUGH 10/4 Tiffany in Bloom: Stained Glass Lamps of Louis Comfort Tiffany. Tiffany in Bloom introduces visitors to the magic that Tiffany created with thousands of shards of glass and the “newfangled” power of electric light. 11150 East Blvd., 216-421-7350, clevelandart.org

CLEVELAND PUBLIC LIBRARY

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

GREATER CLEVELAND AQUARIUM

ONGOING Aquarist for a Day, Stingray Art Experience, Zzzs in the Seas Overnights.

2000 Sycamore St., Cleveland, 216-8628803, greaterclevelandaquarium.com

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TRAVEL ADVENTURES (Virtual or In-Person) 8/3

St. Lucia: The Gem of the Caribbean. From the abundant natural beauty with jungles, the Caribbean’s only drive-in volcano and beaches to the fun at Rodney Bay and amazing cuisine everywhere, learn about the island from frequent visitors. 12-12:30 p.m. trouvailletravel.org

8/4

Virtual Cruise Night. Discuss new, exciting itineraries and onboard amenities to give you an idea of what an ocean or river cruise experience will look

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like. Learn about historic and cultural destinations throughout the world and more. 5-6 p.m. eventbrite.com/e/virtualcruise-night-with-expediacruises-and-crystal-cruisestickets-112129698948

8/8

Torchlight Canoe Trip. Grab a tiki torch and enjoy a paddle after dark on the Hocking River.

The trip starts at sunset and concludes at the canoe livery, where your car is parked. The fun continues all night, live music is scheduled following the paddle. hockinghills canoeing.com/torchlight.html

8/10-14

Take-Home Globe Trotter’s Carry-On. Take your taste buds on a road trip. Make and enjoy healthy appetizers and sweet desserts using recipes from the Southern region of the U.S. There are opportunities to brush up on your geography skills in each adventure box. Elyria Central Library, 320 Washington Ave., Elyria, 440322-0287, elyrialibrary.org Virtual Travel Adventure to Israel. Enjoy a side of Israel you have never seen with the help of a licensed tour guide. Join a “busload” of participants and experience biblical and modern Israel, famous tourist sites, off-the-beaten-path sites, Jewish National Fund projects and places and hidden gems. Jewish National Fund, jnf.org/travel-pages/jnf-virtual-tours-to-israel#

8/14-16

Flag City BalloonFest. The Flag City BalloonFest committee is working diligently to present a festival that’s safe for everyone involved with regulations including social distancing and capacity restrictions.

Emory Adams Park, 1861 South Blanchard St., Findlay, flagcityballoonfest.com

8/28-30

Bigfoot Adventure Weekend.

This three-day, two-night family adventure is sure to pique your curiosity as you explore one of Ohio’s Bigfoot hotspots.

Experienced Bigfoot investigators are geared up and ready to share their knowledge and take you on an investigation for the legendary Sasquatch. Salt Fork State Park, Lore City, bigfootadventureweekends. com

Northeast Ohio Parent

MARKETPLACE

TO PLACE YOUR AD HERE

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

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COVID-19 Rules & Resources THE LATEST GUIDELINES AND PROGRAMS TO CONSIDER FOR YOUR LOVED ONES

By Marisa Palmieri Shugrue

L

ike so many areas of our lives, COVID-19 is having an impact on how we care for and relate to our aging loved ones. Restrictions are changing often.

Here’s a look at the latest guidelines and programs affecting seniors.

VISITORS WELCOME

As of July 20, Governor DeWine permits nursing homes to allow outdoor visitation as long as all safety standards are met. Similar

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visitation has been allowed for assisted living facilities and intermediate care facilities for individuals with intellectual disabilities since June.

Safety requirements include temperature checks and symptom reporting for residents and visitors, hand sanitizer use, social distancing and mask wearing, among other things.

State officials decided to allow outdoor visitation considering requests from families

and residents and the impact on the quality of life that a prolonged loss of connection can have on an individual.

“We are confident that our approach provides each facility the flexibility needed to assess their readiness to safely facilitate outdoor visitation and to do so in a transparent way that keeps residents and families informed,” says Governor DeWine in a statement.

For more information on the order and related guidance, visit coronavirus.ohio.gov.

MEAL SUPPORT AVAILABLE

The Ohio Department of Aging launched the Staying Healthy program, a partnership with local agencies on aging and restaurants to provide free meals to older Ohioans who are unable to prepare meals and lack meal support at home or in their communities.

The program is supported by funding from the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. Restaurants participating in the program receive reimbursement from these funds for the meals they provide to eligible participants.

“This program serves three purposes,” says ODA Director Ursel McElroy in a news release. “It spurs local investment in an economic sector significantly impacted

by COVID-19; it increases small-business restaurant investment; and it meets the increased demand of older adults needing nutrition services.”

The short-term program is designed to serve older adults with the greatest economic and social need. It places special emphasis on low-income older adults. It also focuses on older Ohioans living in rural areas; those with severe disabilities; those with limited English-speaking ability; and those with Alzheimer’s disease or related disorders.

SIGN UP FOR AUTOMATIC CHECK-INS

Going hand in hand with Staying Healthy, ODA launched Staying Connected, a free, daily phone check-in for Ohio’s older residents. Staying Connected is open to Ohio residents age 60 or older who have a valid phone number.

“During a time when physical distancing has become necessary, we must create ways to maintain social connectedness,” McElroy says in a statement. “The impact of isolation has been linked to higher risks for serious physical and mental conditions, so I am pleased we can provide these check-ins at a

critical time.”

The automated service contacts participants during a one-hour window of their choice between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. Participants receive a daily, automated check-in call. They can confirm that they are OK and end the call, or they can choose to be connected to their local area agency on aging for information about services or assistance. The participant also can request a friendly chat. Staff are available 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, to engage in a brief, informal conversation with the participant.

The service also acts as a safety net. If a participant does not answer after three attempts, the system calls the participant’s alternative contact, if provided. If attempts to reach the participant or alternative contact are unsuccessful, the system will notify area nonemergency services, such as the local sheriff ’s office.

Learn more or sign up at aging.ohio.gov/stayingconnected or 833-632-2428. For more information about the Staying Healthy program or nutrition services for older adults, contact your area agency on aging. Call 866-243-5678 to be connected to the agency serving your community or visit aging.ohio.gov/f indservices to look up agency contact information.

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#CLE MAMA

10 Ideas SARA CARNES • Facebook = Sara Carnes • Instagram = saracarnes4

S

for Raising Polite Kids

PHOTO BY SARA CARNES

omething that’s been on my mind is raising polite kids. In the business of life, we don’t always have the time or energy to focus on teaching our kids manners, how to be polite or how to interact with others.

Maybe it’s because we’ve been around one another a lot more recently during these months of quarantine, and I’m noticing things I may not have noticed before. I mean, we all know the basics — please and thank you — right?

Those are super important, but for the most part I think we have those covered.

It’s when we dig into manners and what they mean a little more that we can uncover some great things to teach our kids in addition to what I call “manner basics.”

What things get our kids noticed for the right reasons? How do you raise a well-liked kid? What are some things we can teach our kids about talking to people, being polite and having good manners that will help them stand out? I decided to poll my friends on Facebook, and I got some great ideas. Here are 10 suggestions I’d like to share.

1 2

Keep negative opinions to themselves (unless they’re with close friends or family).

3

Not to interrupt adults when they’re talking, but if they need your attention, “Excuse me” is the right way to get it. This one takes patience, too.

4 5

TEACH YOUR KIDS TO DO THE G: FOLLOWIN

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Respond when adults ask them how they’re doing.

And then ask the adult how they’re doing, too.

Write thank-you notes for gifts and gestures.

Order politely at a restaurant. (Mom and Dad don’t always have to do the ordering.)

6 7 8

Help the elderly if they see an opportunity.

Thank their friends’ parents for having them over after a play date.

Have respect for themselves and others. Google doesn’t know everything.

9 10

Be nice to everyone.

If you see someone playing or sitting alone, talk to them.

And last, but certainly not least — cover your mouth when you sneeze or cough.

Another opportunity we noticed during homeschooling and quarantine was teaching our 9-year-old how to write polite emails (address the email, write in the proper tone and sign off ).

Of course, probably the most important thing we can do as parents is set a good example. Am I right? How do our kids see us treat strangers? And family? Did we remember to say thank you? Remember, we set the standard.

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