Northeast Ohio Parent Magazine - August 2022

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Preschool through senior year: Op

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PRESCHOOL GUIDE: Everything you need to know for your littlest student NortheastOhioParent.com August 2022 - NortheastOhioParent.com | 1

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August

insiDE

NortheastOhioParent.com

features

This is our

SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE S Looking for a school? Find times to visit this fa ll. pg. 18

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departments 06

EDITOR’S NOTE Back to everything and moving forward.

Issue!

MAKE ROOM FOR BABY

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WORTH NOTING How breastfeeding moms need support and Reading Room.

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Here’s ideas on convenient and versatile baby furniture and gear for expectant parents. Plus, Parent & Me Fun events on pg. 23.

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AFTER SCHOOL Managing the after-school madness when everyone has an activity to do. Also, check out the after school guide on pg. 12.

100TH ISSUE LOOK BACK

Northeast Ohio Parent celebrates our 100th issue by checking in with people we’ve featured in the past.

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FAMILY CALENDAR Find fun things to do in this month, including Labor Day festivities and Last Chance for Summer Festivals on pg. 48.

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PRESCHOOL GUIDE

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THE ABC’S OF PRESCHOOL

Help to make an easy transition.

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August 2022

Get Ready

Learning Games, Potty training & More

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LEARN & PLAY

At-home ideas for your kids to have some fun while learning.

32

GET READY

Get the basics, potty training and more!

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FULL-OR-PART TIME PRESCHOOL

What decision is best for your child?

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Part or Full Time

Making Decisions

PRESCHOOL GUIDE

The first of our four Fall Education Guides focuses on preschool.

Here’s everything you need to know for your littlest student.

Check the digital edition this month for education extras.

The ABC’s

What You Need to Know

Fall

US

FOC N O I T A EDUC

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AGING ANSWERS Is your mom and dad’s diet impacting their health?

50

#CLEMAMA Mom Columnist Sara Carnes shares why you should check in with your kids while you check off your back to school list.

ON THE COVER:

Cover Kids Grace, 6; Dwight, 13; Heath, 17 and preschooler Magnolia on the steps of Emerson Elementary in the Lakewood School district.

Each one will be featured in our fall education guides!

PHOTOS BY MEMORIES BY STEPHANIE

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PHOTO BY PRELUDE PHOTOGRAPHY

Editor's NOTE

Back to Everything and Moving Forward “Mom, that smells so bad,” my teenage son says to me pointing at the table.

I look down — (and no, it’s not my cooking, but I do burn a lot of stuff) —, to my nail polish.

All the colors are out and uncapped — yellow, blue, pink, green and purple.

Lately, I have been experimenting with my nails. For years, I didn’t wear any colors, or if I did it would only be on my toes. I just didn’t have time to paint and let them dry before they chipped. However, recently, I was inspired to paint them. I guess living in a house, which sports —hockey, baseball and we just added basketball —dominate our media and outdoor play, I wanted to insert a little bit of mom (me) in the mix.

While I’m the only one who cares about what I do with my nails, it makes me happy to look at them, and I feel slightly less stressed for a moment.

It’s August, and that means the lounge days of the summer are almost over. We have to head back into our cars for drop-off, pick-up, after school activities, parent-teacher meetings, and then at-home homework and go-to-sleep battles.

So, as we think about what’s coming next, preparing for our back-to-school routine doesn’t always have to be about the kids — splurge on a new water bottle or key chain with an inspirational saying or image you love, or if you don’t have the cash, recycle an old purse to put in your rotation, change your lock screen photo to something that makes you happy.

Start the year off right, not just for the kids, but for you, too.

In this issue, we cover plenty of education topics to kick-off the season, including our Fall Education Guides — each month through November, we cover a specific school level, preschool in August, elementary in September, middle school in October, and high school in November. Also, check out the digital issues on NortheastOhioParent.com, which will be filled with education extras.

For those just starting out in parenthood or having their second or third and beyond child, we provide info on making room for babies. The recent formula shortage has everyone thinking differently on how to feed their infants. We cover breastfeeding and why it could be an option.

For Northeast Ohio Parent, we are celebrating our 100th issue! It’s been an amazing experience as editor to see families and the stories they’ve shared on our pages over the years.

I’m excited to bring you up-to-date on some past Cover Kids and stories that we loved.

As I’m typing this note, I can’t help to glance at the colors of my not-so-perfect nail polish. Like the colors of my nails, it makes me happy to provide you with resources for whatever parent stage you’re in — so in the next 100 issues, feel free to reach out and share your ideas and stories with us!

Please feel free to email at angela@northeastohioparent.com, we would love to hear from you!

VOL. NO. 9 • ISSUE NO. 7

august 2022 Northeast Ohio Parent is a property of

PO Box 1088 Hudson, OH 44236 330-822-4011 NortheastOhioParent.com PUBLISHER - Brad Mitchell brad@northeastohioparent.com 330-714-7712 EDITORIAL: EDITOR - Angela Gartner angela@northeastohioparent.com 216-536-1914 ART DIRECTOR - Sherry Lundberg sherry@northeastohioparent.com MANAGING/DIGITAL EDITOR Shana O’Malley-Smith shana@northeastohioparent.com ASSISTANT EDITOR - Georgia Lattas georgia@northeastohioparent.com ADVERTISING SALES: Chris Geer, 330-614-8471 chris@northeastohioparent.com Janyse Heidy, 330-671-3886 janyse@northeastohioparent.com Michelle Vacha, 440-463-0146 michelle@northeastohioparent.com Sherrie Kantarovich, 216-299-5455 sherriek@northeastohioparent.com Yvonne Pelino, 440-971-0595 yvonne@northeastohioparent.com DIGITAL MARKETING SPECIALIST/ SALES CONSULTANT - Samantha Olp, 330-636-6127, sam@ northeastohioparent.com OFFICE MANAGER: Kathleen Mitchell, 440-533-1208 kathleen@northeastohioparent.com EVENTS MANAGER: Lilia Lipps, 440-724-0559 , Lilia@northeastohioparent DISTRIBUTION INQUIRIES: info@northeastohioparent.com

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Proud member of

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Worth NOTING

Formula Shortage Highlights Importance of Breastfeeding Support

T

here’s been a choice between breast milk and formula since canned milk was invented and manufactured just for babies. Formula has been pretty simple, measure the powder based on the instructions, mix with water in a bottle and feed.

Formula does have its benefits and mothers who choose it, do for different reasons.

However, with the recent formula shortage, newly pregnant moms, whether it’s their first or third child, might be weighing their infant feeding choices carefully.

Some who thought breastfeeding wouldn’t be an option, could now be choosing it exclusively, — and there’s a lot of benefits for their child.

According to the July report in Pediatrics from the American Academy of Pediatrics, AAP, “it recommends exclusive breastfeeding of infants for the first six months of life before introducing nutritious complementary foods, while encouraging social and systemic changes to support mothers who choose to breastfeed.”

“Research has shown that breastfeeding is linked to decreased rates of lower respiratory tract infections, severe diarrhea, ear infections and obesity. Breastfeeding is associated with lower risk of sudden infant death syndrome, as well as other protective effects,” the AAP report states. “There

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By Angela Gartner

are continued benefits from breastfeeding beyond 1 year, and up to 2 years especially in the mother. Long-term breastfeeding is associated with protections against diabetes, high blood pressure, and cancers of the breast and ovaries.”

Amy Berry, nurse, certified lactation consultant and manager of the OB unit at Mercy Health agrees, and adds breast milk is perfectly designed for an infant.

“It is a commitment,” Berry says, who helps moms with their vision of feeding their newborns and helps them get the support they need to make it happen.

There are ways parents can learn how to breastfeed before and after their baby is born.

Berry says to reach out for prenatal classes, which now have virtual options, and many are at hospitals. The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), also provides services for low-income pregnant, breastfeeding and non-breastfeeding women and families.

However, once moms are in the hospital and want to breastfeed, it’s best not to get discouraged if things don’t go as planned.

“I tell moms don’t be alarmed if the babies don’t latch,” Berry says. “it’s not uncommon for them to not get it right away.”

The nurses and lactation consultants help

moms with the transition — milk supply and latching support.

“What I usually tell moms is to watch their babies output and how many times they have wet or dirty diapers,” Berry says. “The breast milk is not measured on how much it goes in, but they will start to see how much the baby grows and gains.”

If parents have further concerns, they can contact their pediatricians in between their typical infant visits. Berry recommends finding a breastfeeding support group or other moms to lean on to help manage feeding. Most hospitals also have outpatient services.

If you are struggling when you get home, it’s easy to reach for that bottle of formula,” Berry says. “Try to (plan) early on, make sure you have (the right support) in place to be successful. As time goes on, it does get to be less work, more efficient and less challenging. It’s getting you through those early weeks and getting those supports.”

For parents going back to work, being prepared, taking care of yourself will lead to a greater chance of success to continue to breastfeed.

“You can do a combination,” Berry says, adding parents can find ways to breastfeed, pump or supplement with formula, whatever works for them and is tolerable. “For a lot of moms, it doesn’t have to be all or nothing.”

READING ROOM

Merriam-Webster’s Ready-for-School Words: 1,000 Words for Big Kids

By Ailie Busby

before they start school.

We Say Goodnight

Enter the world of Merriam-Webster’s Ready-for-School Words and discover the words needed to describe the people, places, and things in your community and beyond!

Featuring 1,000 words children should know

Word Play

By Adam Lehraupt and illustrated by Jared Chapman When the parts of speech gather on the playground, Verb is always the star. She can climb! She can frolic! She can do anything!

Her friends Adjective, Adverb, and Interjection all watch admiringly.

Five Little Ducks Nursery Games

Spend time with your toddler exploring this book of nursery games. Here you’ll find many well-known games, with a sprinkling of modern variations, for every occasion in a young child’s day.

By Salina Yoon This book features the faces of children from many nations speaking seven languages: English, Chinese, Spanish, Hindi, Arabic, French, and Tagalog. Readers can lift a flap to discover a speech bubble with a familiar phrase translated. Includes phonetic pronunciations for each language, as well as characters for Arabic, Hindi, and Mandarin Chinese.

According to the July report in Pediatrics from the American Academy of Pediatrics, AAP, “it recommends exclusive breastfeeding of infants for the first six months of life before introducing nutritious complementary foods, while encouraging social and systemic changes to support mothers who choose to breastfeed.”

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Juggling Your Kids After-School Activities

By Lydia Mockensturm Feel like you’re being pulled in opposite directions? You’re not alone.

Read on for advice on managing the after-school activity madness.

Home Life

Managing Activities 1. HAVE A SUPPORT SYSTEM. Having a network of support can be sanity saving for busy parents—whether this means asking for help from extended family, forming a carpool group for soccer practice, or connecting with other parents.

“Connect with other families who have kids the same age,” says Susan Richardson, a high school social studies teacher and mom of four. “But also connect with people who are older and can relate to all of the challenges you’ve gone through or will face.”

2. SET BOUNDARIES. To avoid burn-out, set boundaries as far as what you’re willing and able to commit to.

“Carefully consider the teams and activities you are saying yes to,” Richardson says, who at times finds the amount of travel that her older kids do for sports to be too much.

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Dr. Syma Dar, a psychiatrist with Cleveland Clinic, suggests picking activities closer to home when possible.

“Sometimes you have to turn things down,” she says, adding that something else will come along.

3. PLAN AHEAD. It may take a bit of trial and error to find what works for your family.

“We have a giant dry erase three-month calendar in our kitchen,” Richardson says.

“When my husband first bought that, none of the kids had cell phones so I referred to it often. Now, we text reminders and schedules to the three oldest (kids).”

Ed Gallagher, Director of Education at Beck Center for the Arts in Lakewood, recommends looking at your schedule and finding where you might run into trouble.

Ask yourself if you can make it from point A to point B safely and on time, he says,

“and be prepared so that you don’t leave a child waiting too long or arrive late frequently.”

This is where asking for help from family members might come in handy.

4. DON’T COMPARE YOURSELF TO OTHERS. While it may seem like other families have it all figured out, Dar says to be mindful of how you measure your success.

“Don’t fall into the trap of comparing yourself to others and what they are doing,” she says.

Gallagher adds that it’s important not to get too caught up in what you see on social media, since most people don’t share their struggles or how they make it all happen.

“Instead it may just be the curtain call photo, the big game photo, or something along those lines,” he says.

When you have a full schedule of activities after school, meal planning, housework, and finding a moment to relax might seem nearly impossible. But taking shortcuts whenever possible and letting older kids chip in can go a long way.

Dar recommends using a slow cooker and planning meals at a time that works for you.

Likewise, Richardson uses her mornings to catch up on housework and get things organized for the day.

“I try to make the most of my mornings,” she says.

If you’re struggling to find time to connect, make the most of family time, as rare as it may be, says Richardson, adding making it a rule not to have phones at the dinner table and talking to each other about your day.

“But most importantly, don’t be too hard on yourself, your partner, or your kids,” she says. “Enjoy these moments while they last because they’ll be gone before you know it.”

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AFTER SCHOOL • Activities Guide •

Visit the Family Calendar for more fun and learning activities at NortheastOhioParent.com

BECK CENTER FOR THE ARTS

Beck Center for the Arts is a non-profit performing arts and arts education organization located in Lakewood.

Beck Center combines professional theater productions with comprehensive, curriculum-based arts education to create arts experiences for all ages and abilities as individual as the people they serve. Beck Center is the largest theater and arts facility on Cleveland’s west side, housing multiple performance spaces and producing live theater performances for children, teens, and adults; visual art gallery spaces; and newly renovated classrooms for programming for all ages, accessible for everyone. Beck Center, educating and entertaining over sixty-five thousand people annually, also hosts the longest-running youth theater program in the United States, and offers classes for all ages and abilities in creative arts therapies, music, theater, dance, and visual art while fostering a diverse, inclusive, and safe environment for all artists and audiences. Dedicated to inspiring and enriching the quality of life for all in Northeast Ohio, Beck Center proudly connects people, communities, and cultures through the arts. beckcenter.org

CENTER STAGE DANCE STUDIO

Learn and grow at Center Stage Dance Studio by registering now for fall classes. As they celebrate their 35th anniversary in Northfield, Center Stage provides a positive and supportive environment.

From beginner through advanced, the studio offers high quality instruction from professional and fun teachers. Take classes in ballet, jazz, hip hop, acrobatics, tap, and more. centerstageohio.com

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CENTER STAGE DANCE STUDIO

WHY CHOOSE US?  Dance for all ages and levels  Safe environment with professional staff  Classes for children and adults  Flexible schedule options

FALL REGISTRATION NOW OPEN CenterStageOhio.com 330-467-1414

 Ballet  Jazz  Hip Hop  Tap  Contemporary  Acrobatics  Boys Classes

VISIT OUR STUDIO

FOLLOW US @CENTERSTAGEOHIO

10211 Northfield Road Northfield, OH August 2022 - NortheastOhioParent.com |

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AFTER SCHOOL • Activities Guide •

CLEVELAND CITY DANCE

Confidence, Camaraderie and Community.

Watch your child’s eyes sparkle with delight as their confidence grows in a safe and family-friendly community.

Students flourish as they are engaged and supported in classes. Friendships blossom while poise and technique grow with inspiring and compassionate teachers. Nurture mind and body for ages 3 to 85 with ballet, jazz, tap, modern, musical theater and more. Yes, they have adult classes too. Performance opportunities include The Uniquely Cleveland Nutcracker.

Home of City Ballet of Cleveland, 13108 Shaker Square, 216-295-2222, info@clevelandcitydance.com or visit clevelandcitydance.com presents:

EDUCATION & STEM EXPO

2022

MARK YOUR CALENDARS! The fifth annual

Education & STEM Expo will be on Saturday, September 24 at the Great Lakes Science Center from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Look for more info on

NortheastOhioParent.com or on pg. 42 of this issue!

CLEVELAND HEARING & SPEECH CENTER Ultrasound Speech Therapy is a new, noninvasive method that helps children and adults who still have trouble with certain speech sounds, most commonly “r” and “s.” This state-of-the-art speech therapy uses ultrasound to visualize tongue position and offers immediate feedback to the client. After-school appointments are now available at Cleveland Hearing & Speech Center. Call 216-231-8787 or visit chsc.org

FAIRMOUNT CENTER FOR THE ARTS

Fairmount Center for the Arts, located in Russell Township, offers award-winning children’s classes in dance, music, theatre, and visual arts. Dance instruction for everything from ballet to hip-hop ranges from beginner to advanced, taught by professional dancers. Private music instruction in piano, violin, guitar, brass, and more. Fall session begins September 7. Get 5 % off registration using code EarlyReg through August 15.

Visit fairmountcenter.org or call 440-338-3171 to register.

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GIRL SCOUTS OF NORTH EAST OHIO

Girl Scouts is a way of life that brings out the best in your girl and helps her bring out the best in everyone around her. While she’s learning about STEM, the outdoors, entrepreneurship, and important life skills, she’s also discovering new ways to make your family and community stronger, kinder, and better for everyone.

Girl Scouts of North East Ohio is excited to welcome you and your girl. Register for Girl Scouts at gsneo.org/join.

HUNTINGTON LEARNING CENTER

With locations in Broadview Heights, Mayfield Heights, and Mentor, Huntington Learning Center provides individualized tutoring for K-12 students to help them succeed in school with reading, phonics, writing, math and study skills, as well as exam prep services for the ACT, SAT, PSAT, ISEE, HSPT, ASVAB and more. 1-800-CAN-LEARN, HuntingtonHelps.com

MARTELL SCHOOL OF DANCE

Join Martell School of Dance for the 43rd season. Offering preschool through adult classes at beginner through advanced levels, their highly qualified and dedicated faculty provide educational dance instruction in ballet, pointe, jazz, tap, lyrical, modern, acro, fusion/contemporary, hip-hop, clogging, and musical theatre. With a newly renovated facility and family friendly studio environment, Martell School of Dance is ready to make you a part of their dance family.

Visit martellschoolofdance.com

Located in the beautiful Russell Township, Fairmount Center for the Arts offers introductory and advanced classes and workshops for children and adults.

Voted Cleveland Magazine's "Best of the East" WINNER in dance and music instruction!

Classes begin September 7!

8400 Fairmount Rd. Novelty, OH 44072 (440) 338- 3171 FairmountCenter.org

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AFTER SCHOOL • Activities Guide •

PROGRESS WITH CHESS

Sunday chess class — register your child to participate in the premier chess training program on Sundays, Sept. 11 through Dec .11 in Beachwood and Rocky River.

There are three class options that offer a learning experience for all skill levels, from beginner to advanced. Students thrive in interactive group settings, where experienced instructors offer skill appropriate lectures, puzzle solving, game analysis and plenty of supervised open play. Register at progresswithchess.org/sunday

TUTTI MUSIC PROGRAM

The Tutti Music Program is a bilingual (English/Spanish) music school that offers multi-genre cello lessons and customized early childhood music programs. Instructor, Carolina Borja, is a Fulbright Scholar and Suzuki certified educator with a masters in cello performance pedagogy from Ohio University. Ms. Borja’s lessons are a fun combination of techniques, improvisation, composition and exploration for students to boost connection with creativity and artistry. tuttiprogram@gmail.com or call 216-816-0164 or visit tuttimusicprogram.com

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FALL OPEN HOUSES

Open house events are an ideal way for parents and students to ask questions, meet faculty and see if a particular school is the right fit. Private and other schools across Northeast Ohio offer families many opportunities to visit their campuses. Check the following schools in the Greater Cleveland area for open houses and private tours during the 2022-23 school year.

Before attending an open house, please check the school’s website for event registration or RSVP requirements and to verify times and dates of in-person open houses. Also, any health guidelines for visitors.

CLEVELAND MONTESSORI SCHOOL

12510 Mayfield Road, Cleveland 216-421-0700, clevelandmontessori.org Nov. 2: 5:30-7 p.m.

GLOBAL AMBASSADORS LANGUAGE ACADEMY (GALA)

13442 Lorain Ave., Cleveland 216-315-7942, galacleveland.org Aug. 6, Sept. 10, Oct. 8, Nov. 12: 10-11:30 a.m.

Aug. 9, Sept. 13, Oct. 11, Nov. 15: 5-6:30 p.m.

HAWKEN SCHOOL

Lower & Middle Schools 5000 Clubside Road, Lyndhurst 440-423-4446, hawken.edu Nov. 20: 1 p.m.

Upper School 12465 County Line Road, Gates Mills 440-423-4446, hawken.edu Nov. 6: 1 p.m.

Birchwood School of Hawken 4400 W. 140th St., Cleveland 216-251-2321, birchwoodschool.org Oct. 23: 2 p.m.

Mastery School 11025 Magnolia Dr., Cleveland 440-423-4446, hawken.edu Nov. 13: 1 p.m.

HERSHEY MONTESSORI

Upper School Huntsburg Campus 11530 Madison Road, Huntsburg Twp., 440-636-6290, hershey-montessori.org Oct. 10, Nov. 14: 9-11 a.m.

(Visitors’ Day) Nov. 16: 7-8 p.m.

(Virtual Info Session)

Lower School - Concord Campus 10229 Prouty Road, Concord Twp. 440-357-0918, hershey-montessori.org Sept. 17: 1-2:15 p.m. or 2:30-3:15 p.m.

(Info Session/Tour)

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RUFFING MONTESSORI SCHOOL

Oct. 12, Nov. 9: 9-11 a.m.

(Open House)

3380 Fairmount Blvd., Cleveland Heights 216-321-7571, ruffingmontessori.net Nov. 12 & Jan. 21

JULIE BILLIART SCHOOLS Akron Campus 380 Mineola Ave., Akron 330-333-5280, juliebilliartschool.org Sept. 1: 6 p.m. & Nov. 10: 9 a.m.

UNIVERSITY SCHOOL

Lyndhurst Campus 4982 Clubside Road, Lyndhurst 216-381-1191, juliebilliartschool.org Oct.13: 9 a.m. & Dec. 12: 6 p.m.

Westlake Campus 3600 Crocker Road, Westlake 440-471-4150, juliebilliartschool.org Sept. 8: 9 a.m. & Nov. 8: 6 p.m.

SETON CATHOLIC SCHOOL 6923 Stow Road, Hudson 330-342-4200, setoncatholicschool.org Nov. 13: 2-4 p.m.

SAINT IGNATIUS HIGH SCHOOL

1911 West 30th St., Cleveland 216-651-0222, ignatius.edu Sept. 25: Noon-4 p.m.

Hunting Valley Campus (Grades 9-12) 2785 SOM Center Road, Hunting Valley 216-831-2200, us.edu Oct. 18: 8:30-11 a.m.

Nov. 6: 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

Shaker Heights Campus (Junior Kindergarten-Grade 8) 20701 Brantley Road, Shaker Heights, 216-321-8260, us.edu Nov. 6: 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

VILLA ANGELA-ST. JOSEPH HIGH SCHOOL 18491 Lakeshore Blvd., Cleveland 216-481-8414, vasj.com Oct. 9 & Nov. 3

Submit your open house to us at: openhouse@northeastohioparent.com

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m Roo

MAKING

Expectant parents seek quality, convenience and versatility from baby furniture and gear

By Shana O’Malley-Smith

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FOR BABY

There are so many big and important decisions that need to be made when you’re expecting a new baby – from picking the baby's name to deciding what pediatrician’s office you’ll use. Some of the more fun decisions for expectant parents are planning the nursery and registering for baby gear. Whether it’s furniture or baby essentials, many of today’s baby items are designed to grow with your child from infancy through preschool and beyond.

T

NURSERY FURNITURE

here are some basic staples that most parents purchase when furnishing a nursery.

“You have a crib, a low dresser for storage, that can also double as a changing space by adding a changing try and a changing pad, and then a comfortable place to sit such as a glider or rocker for when you’re keeping those unusual hours when baby needs you,” says Dave Brodsky, owner of Bergs Baby and Teen Furniture in Lyndhurst.

Brodsky adds that many cribs convert to a toddler bed and a full-size bed, so parents are shopping with the long-term in mind.

“Most of our customers are searching out quality with the expectation of holding on to this furniture well beyond the baby and toddler years,” Brodsky says.

Trends for 2022 baby and children’s rooms are reflective of the latest interior design styles – rustic modern, farmhouse, and minimalistic top the list.

When it comes to colors, shades of white and gray have dominated the market for the past sev-

eral years but Brodsky says warm tones are being more requested.

With supply chain shortages, plan to order custom furniture sooner rather than later for the best chance of receiving everything before the baby's arrival.

W

BABY GEAR

hen it comes to big ticket items, such as bassinets, strollers and car seats, parents want quality and convenience.

The American Academy of Pediatrics “recommends that parents sleep in the same room – but not in the same bed as a baby, preferably for at least the first six months,” which means a good quality bassinet is essential for a peaceful night’s sleep.

One of the most popular bassinets on the market is the Halo BassiNest Swivel Sleeper. This bassinet comes standard with a 360-degree swivel, adjustable height, breathable material and lowering sidewall for quick access to the baby without bending over. It is

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PHOTOS: Halo BassiNest Swivel Sleepers (halosleep.com); Kyte BABY sleep bags, (kytebaby.com); Zutano booties (zutano.com).

also available in different colors and added features such as a night light, music and vibration.

The Halo brand also makes sleep sacks and newborn swaddles and their products are used in many hospitals across the U.S., according to their website.

There’s a lot to consider when it comes to choosing a stroller and car seat and there’s a wide spectrum of options and price ranges on the market.

Stroller and baby gear maker Uppababy is a top pick for parents and it’s not hard to see why.

The brand’s popular Vista stroller can expand from a single to a double stroller, has multi-position seats and you can add a piggyback board for older children to ride.

“The versatility of having a stroller that can accommodate your family and their growing needs, that has become a priority of most of our customers,” Brodsky adds. He says Uppababy is a top seller in his store.

Uppababy also carries its own line of car seats and makes attachments so other car seat brands are compatible with their strollers.

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N

BABY ESSENTIALS

umber one on this mom’s list is the Kyte BABY sleep bag, according to Kate Horne, store owner of Babycakes Children’s Boutique in Rocky River and mother of three.

“When people come into the store, it’s the first thing we take them to,” she says.

These buttery soft wearable blankets are made from bamboo and help regulate baby’s temperature at night.

“There’s also a baby blanket and there’s a toddler blanket, so what’s nice is when they grow out of the sleep bag, you can get them a blanket for their crib or first bed,” Horne adds.

Other top picks in the store are Zutano booties (they actually stay on your wiggly baby’s feet), silicone tethers and bibs that are easy to wash in the dishwasher, and Copper Pearl burp cloths.

If you can’t resist those sweet little baby outfits, Babycakes carries several adorable brands of baby and children’s clothing and even offers embroidery for a personal touch.

My Family Storytime.

Introduce your littlest darling to books, bouncy rhymes, and musical beats. 10:30 a.m.

Beginning 8/18. Brunswick Library, 3649 Center Rd., mcdl.info Family Circle Time. Stories, songs and fingerplays. 5 p.m.

South Branch Library, 3096 Scranton Rd., Cleveland, cpl.org

FRIDAYS

Parent & Me Fun Pick-A-DAY

MONDAYS

Baby & Me Story Time.

Interactive session using songs, rhymes, puppets and musical instruments. 10 a.m.

Wadsworth Public Library, 132 Broad St., wadsworthlibrary. com

TUESDAYS

Family Storytime. Stories, music and fun for ages 0 to 6.

11 a.m. Administrative Center Branch Library, 12701 Ravenwood Dr., Chardon, divi.geaugalibrary.net Tuesday Lapsit. Bounce, sing, rhyme, hear a story and play.

10 a.m. Kirtland Public Library, 9267 Chillicothe Rd., Kirtland, kirtland.lib.oh.us

TUESDAYS & THURSDAY

Willoughby Young & Restless. Outdoor movement and music class on Citizen’s Bank lawn. 6:30-7 p.m. Willoughby Public Library, 30 Public Square, we247.org

SELECT WEDNESDAYS & SATURDAYS

Seiberling Explorers. Kids, ages 3-6, with an adult enjoy a variety of interactive adventures. 10:30 a.m. Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, 714 N. Portage Path, Akron, stanhywet.org

THURSDAYS

Family Fun Storytime.

Toe-tapping, hand-clapping good time of stories, songs and rhymes. 11:30 a.m.-noon.

Euclid Public Library, 631 E. 222nd St., euclidlibrary.org Preschool Storytime. Songs, stories, activities and rhymes.

11-11:30 a.m. Rockport Branch Library, 4421 W. 140th St., cpl.org Story Time at the Maltz Museum. Hear stories about creativity and inspiration and play with multi-sensory stations. 10:30 a.m. 2929 Richmond Road, Beachwood, maltzmuseum.org Wee Ones Storytime. Stories, songs, rhymes and playtime.

Beginning 9/8. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Barberton Public Library, 602 W. Park Ave., barberton. lib.oh.us

Story Stop. Story, songs, and dancing. 10:30-11 a.m. Noble Neighborhood Library, 2800 Noble Rd., Cleveland Heights, heightslibrary.org Storytime at the Park.

Stories, songs, and playground fun. 10 a.m. Cuyahoga Falls Library, 2015 Third St., cuyahogafallslibrary.org Finger Paint Fridays. Bring your little one to explore their creativity. 10 a.m.-noon. Mentor Headlands Branch Library, 4669 Corduroy Road, Mentor, mentorpl.org

DAY-BY-DAY

8/10

Jumping Beans Play Time.

Meet new friends, bond with your little one and explore.

10:30-11:30 a.m. Mogadore Branch Library, 144 S. Cleveland Ave., akronlibrary.org

8/16

Storytime: Life Under a Log. Enjoy a special storytime and craft. 10:30-11:15 a.m. Miller Nature Preserve, 2739 Center Rd., Avon, loraincountymetroparks.com

Get Social Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter @NEOhioParent

8/26

Storytime: The Bugliest Bug. Hear a story about a damselfly who saves the day.

Ages 3-7 with an adult. West Creek Reservation, 2277 W. Ridgewood Dr., Parma, clevelandmetroparks.com

NORTHEAST OHIO PARENTS EVENT SERIES

TUESDAYS - Free, family-friendly entertainment with interactive activities for kids ages 2-9, northeastohioparent.com

Crocker Kids.

11 a.m.-1 p.m.

Crocker Park, 189 Crocker Park Blvd., Westlake August 2

Fun At First & Main.

10 a.m.-noon, First and Main, Hudson August 9

Pinecrest Play Days.

11 a.m.-1 p.m., Park Avenue, Orange Village, August 16

August 2022 202 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 23

This is our

100

th

! e u s Is Story by Angela Gartner

Photos submitted by families

WE Take a Look back at a few Stories we’ve Covered Over the Years

C

an you believe it? Northeast Ohio Parent celebrates our 100th print issue in August. The editorial staff has featured several Northeast Ohio families and children since our first issue in 2014. We decided to pick a few to follow up with, but it was difficult as there are many wonderful stories we’ve covered in the region. We want to thank everyone who was willing to share their stories, advice and lend a hand in making the magazine adorable in and outside the pages.

24 | Family Living at Its Best

Bundle of Joy,

DECEMBER 2015

The holiday season is always a special time for parents. Northeast Ohio Parent staff hoped to bring some joy to readers.

Kim Stahnke of Kim Stahnke Photography has done many Northeast Ohio Parent cover photo shoots and recalls the session of a sleeping baby, Sawyer Skubak, who was four months old at the time.

“We spent about two hours getting this little guy to sleep and got two photo options and that was it,” Stahnke says. “Ashley Skubak, his mom, and I took turns walking him around the studio trying to rock him to sleep. She even took him on a drive in the car but every time we laid him down he woke up until the very last time in which case we got the two photo options.”

The December cover won a national gold award at the 2017 Parent Media Association Design & Editorial Awards Ashley Skubak says Sawyer, who is now 7, loves to tell visitors that the baby in the picture is actually him.

“And it is a fun story for him to hear and share with others all these years later,” she says. “Sawyer's great grandpa was so proud. He got so many copies and gave them to everyone he knew. Sawyer was the first great grandchild, so it was a very special memory to share with his great grandpa (they had an amazing connection, even when he was a little baby).”

She says Sawyer is smart, funny, sensitive, and a great big brother to his two siblings, Sidney, 4, and Sloane, 2.

“He plays baseball and soccer, as well as the piano/keyboard,” she says.

“He will be starting first grade in August. He made so many great new friends last year and is excited to go back and see everyone. He enjoys playing video games, currently obsessed with Zelda. He also likes reading Zelda books, as well as the Harry Potter series. He learned how to ride a bike (no training wheels) this summer, too. He is a sweet kid who thinks of others and just tries to have fun.”

Home Spun Halloween, OCTOBER 2016

Brooklyn Wells, 1, the 2015 Cover Kids winner, stole our hearts and was chosen to grace the cover in a homemade, lion tutu costume from an Etsy shop. Brooklyn’s mom Jennifer Wells says they still have it. She was a happy toddler throughout the cover shoot with photographer Kim Stahnke and made it fun and easy to get the perfect Halloween look.

Brooklyn, who is now age 7, has had many costumes over the years.

“Since the homemade costume cover, Brooklyn has been a strawberry, a rainbow, Dorothy from the “Wizard of Oz,” a unicorn princess, and a super hero girl,” Jennifer Wells says. “With Brooklyn's Dorothy costume, she decorated a tin can to represent the Tin Man and she was able to collect her candy when she went trick-or-treating. Now as Brooklyn gets older, I let her choose her own costume, but we try to make it personalized so that her costume is one-of-a-kind.”

Her mom says the family was so excited to see Brooklyn on the cover.

"Brooklyn looked so happy and they loved her little smile,” Wells says.

“My husband and I were so excited to see our little girl on the cover of the magazine. We went to every library in Akron to get enough copies to share with our family and friends.

As Brooklyn has gotten older, she keeps a copy of her magazine on her bookshelf in her room. She says, ‘she cannot believe she was on the cover of a magazine, this is so awesome.’”

August 2022 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 25

Sense of Belonging, NOVEMBER 2017

Northeast Ohio Parent was introduced to the Belles family, and freelance writer Michelle Dickstein captured the work of parents Amy and Jeff Belles. They were inspired by their son Carson, who has autism, to help the community provide sensory-friendly and inclusive experiences for people with special needs. Over the years, they have worked with KultureCity, a national nonprofit, to make those connections around Northeast Ohio.

“So much has changed since 2017, sometimes it is hard to keep up in the best possible way,” Amy Belles says. “There are now over 40 venues in Ohio that are certified KultureCity sensory inclusive, stretching from Akron to Cleveland to Canton and Columbus.”

When we did the photo shoot with photographer Kim Stahnke at the Akron Zoo, we featured their sensory spaces and sensory bags through their collaboration with KultureCity and the Belles. Carson, 12 at the time, was featured on the cover and in photos, along with his family, to show us some of the sensory spaces.

Carson is now 17 and his parents Jeff and Amy says he is doing great.

“He loves school and being a part of his community,” Amy Belles says.

“He loves riding his scooter, hiking, going to the beach and his family. It was a wonderful feeling seeing Carson on the cover of Northeast Ohio Parent Magazine, knowing he is valued and celebrated for exactly who he is.”

To learn more about KultureCity and the Belles family work, visit kulturecity.org

Fighting for Jett, MAY 2019 When we met the Burke family of Kent, they were in the middle of adopting 22-month-old Jett.

Jett, who has multiple sulfatase deficiency (MSD), a rare genetic disorder, which leads to loss of motor skills, speech, neurological function, difficulty eating and swallowing. With no cure, symptoms will gradually get worse.

“Jett started to experience some disease-related regression during COVID,” his mom Amanda Burke says. “This last year has been really hard on him. He can no longer walk independently, isn’t able to form words, and becomes fatigued quicker. Through it all, though, he is the happiest, most pleasant kid to be around. He has not lost his spunk, spark, smile, or sense of humor. His life expectancy was 2 to 4 years. This year he turned 5 and we hope to enroll him in home-based kindergarten. A milestone we never imagined he would be able to reach. This is all due to the dedication of his home nurses, his specialists, therapists, his personal drive, and some even say just from pure love from those all around him.”

However, COVID had been difficult for the family and they had to do therapy virtually.

“Doing physical therapy in person is far more valuable,” Burke says. “His therapist worked so hard to keep him engaged, keep our spirits up, and to teach us as best they could virtually. On the positive side, because people were masking, out less, and stores were sanitizing more, he didn’t get sick at all during COVID until the mask mandate was lifted. We also had the chance to spend more quality time with him and his sisters

26 | Family Family Living Living at at Its Its Best Best

since we were all home.”

Amanda and Vanessa Burke are still fighting for Jett, in fact, Amanda Burke serves as the current president for the Board of Directors of the United MSD Foundation.

“While there is still no publicly available treatment for MSD, the data from the gene replacement therapy work that has been taking place for years was finalized this year,” Amanda Burke says. “Those data proved the efficacy of this treatment option in slowing disease progression. This treatment will save the lives of children with MSD. The United MSD Foundation just announced their “30 Who Cure” campaign. Jett has played his part in changing the world and helping to get this clinical trial moving forward by donating urine to the Mayo Clinic to help confirm MSD diagnosis for other children. He has also given urine and blood to help scientists understand more about the disease from a biological level. We are fortunate to get to speak directly with these researchers and see how much they care about the children living with this disease. We can’t predict how much time we have left with our boy, but we know for certainty his life has impacted the future for other children born with MSD. Because of Jett’s mere existence families down the road will one day hear ‘there is a treatment’ not the message we received ‘there is nothing you can do.”’

To learn more, visit curemsd.org or follow their Instagram or Facebook accounts. You can follow Jett’s personal experience on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok @ReadySetSaveJett

g Fightin r fo

Jett

THE BURKE FAMILY COMES TOGETHER TO HELP JETT, WHO THEY ARE IN THE PROCESS OF ADOPTING, DEAL WITH A RARE TERMINAL DISEASE. Writing and photography by Angela Gartner

50 50 Family FamilyLiving LivingAt AtItsItsBest Best

PRESCHOOL GUIDE

August 2022

Get Ready

Learning Games, Potty training & More

Part or Full Time

Making Decisions The ABC’s

What You Need to Know

l l a F

S U C N FO

O I T A C U D E

NortheastOhioParent.com August 2022 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 27

BCs A 0f Presch00l Preparing Your Child for Preschool

By Ginny McCabe

P

arents often have questions about how to best prepare their child for preschool. Here are the biggest benefits of preschool as well as how to make the transition easy and fun for you and your child. Here are some tips on how to prepare your child for preschool.

Allow Children to Thrive Tina Schneider, executive director at Cleveland Montessori School says one of the biggest benefits is exposing children to social activities and giving them the chance to be with other children their age.

Another benefit is kids gain exposure to basic skills and they have opportunities to build upon their academic abilities early on.

“In Montessori, our focus isn’t just on the academics, but more about the whole child, so it’s helping to develop their concentration, independence and coordination, and all the things that will help them be successful in the

28 | PRESCHOOL GUIDE

academic areas down the road,” Schneider says.

Kids can start with activities that are going to help them develop fine motor skills, such as being able to dress themselves, or scrub a table and work with water.

Preschool also exposes kids to other people outside of the family setting, including teachers and their peers. Preschool allows kids to experience other personalities, and they can learn to make connections with a variety of people in a different environment.

“The three areas that I talk to parents about as far as getting their children ready for school are really about helping them to be independent, helping them to develop confidence, and then, exposure to the basic skills, and being ready to do some reading and math, and so forth,” Schneider says.

Reading, Playing and Exploring are Key Janice Silvaroli, lead teacher, Little Saints Preschool at All Saints School of St. John Vianney in Wickliffe says parents often ask how to best prepare a child for preschool.

“By simply reading, playing, and exploring together with your child, you are helping your child get ready for preschool activities,” she says. “Spend time with kids away from devices.”

Silvaroli suggests going for nature walks often and participating in the Metroparks summer programs. Families can

also work on puzzles together or play board games that allow your child to learn to take turns and count. She also encourages families to visit the library and attend children’s programs at the local library.

Another helpful tip is to offer your child a variety of active, playful experiences as well as quieter, more focused activities such as painting, either watercolor or finger painting, working with modeling clay, stringing beads together or using age-appropriate building blocks to build. All these activities help to strengthen a child’s fine motor skills.

Reading with your child also has multiple benefits, Silvaroli says, such as building his/her vocabulary. There are all kinds of books from rhyming books and nursery rhymes to fairytales and non-fiction books.

Additionally, she says, there are several fun books about preschool that parents and children can enjoy reading together such as “Preschool Day Hooray!” by Linda Strauss, “Llama Llama Misses Mama” by Anna Dewdney, “What to Expect at Preschool” by Heidi Murkoff, “Monsters Love School,” by Mike Austin and “First Day at Zoo School” by Sarah Dillard, to name a few.

Practice and Encourage Independence

Talking with Your Child Miller encourages parents to have conversations with their children.

Whether that’s talking to them about their day while they are driving home in the car, counting the number of trucks as they go by, or the stop signs you meet.

Parents can also engage with their children by making a grocery list when they go to the store, so the child has to practice, even if it’s just a scribbled list.

Kids can help make a list, read the list when they get to the store, and then help their parents go to the shelves and find the items on the list.

“Those kinds of things really build a lot of what the child will need when they enter the preschool classroom. They build curiosity and expand their vocabulary, and all those kinds of things, and then, they’re ready. They don’t need to have knowledge of the ABC’s and 123’s, they just need to have their curiosity going and then they are ready to step in the door,” Miller says.

Preschool allows kids to experience other personalities, and they can learn to make connections with a variety of people in a different environment.

Preschool teaches kids how to communicate with other kids and how to express themselves with words.

Kids can also learn to do things more independently and explore the world in a safe way.

Silvaroli says parents can encourage their children to practice independent skills through activities such as washing their hands or putting on his/her own clothing and shoes. Other activities kids can do to build independence include packing a backpack, setting a table, putting away their toys or climbing up and down the stairs.

Children love pretend play, so parents can also use it to prepare a child for preschool. Pretend with your child that you're going to school, hang up your backpack, and sit down for circle time,” she says.

Families can do simple things like playing games or making a snack.

Then, they can talk about how to ask for someone's attention, practice taking turns, or join in the play.

Daniel Tiger has many songs and stories about preparing and attending preschool. Families looking for ideas for music can check out Laurie Berkner and Jim Gill on YouTube, among others.

Schneider says the children have a reciprocal relationship, where they help and learn from each other. The older children are role models and leaders for the younger children, for example.

One way to help kids develop independence, she says, is letting them make some choices at home – like what they are going to wear, or what they’ll have for a snack on a particular day.

“In the classroom, we offer them choices, so it’s not just an adult telling them what to do,” she says. “It’s saying, you can choose to do this activity, or that activity, and letting them have that opportunity to make a decision and them feeling comfortable and confident with the decision.”

Parents Help to Shape Kids Classroom Experiences Sara Miller, director at Carol Nursery School in Shaker Heights says parents are often invited into the classroom and they have an opportunity to share their talents. Parents that love to garden come to the learning garden and help the children garden. For example, parents that love to cook, come in and cook with the students in the classroom. Then, the students eat what they made for a snack that day.

When it comes to what kids walk away with after preschool, Miller agrees that socialization skills and how to be independent are a few of the most important things they’ll learn.

Preschool teaches kids other important things like self-help skills, she says.

Children learn that different people have different feelings about things, and they begin to understand the importance of respecting each other’s space as well as their thoughts and ideas.

Kids Are Expected to Know More in Kindergarten

“When we talk with a lot of parents, and they come in to see what kindergarten looks like, they are pretty surprised at where kindergarten has gone over the years, and what kids are expected to know when they walk through the doors into kindergarten,” says Abby Kassel, director of student services at Revere Local Schools in Richfield.

It’s imperative that children get preschool opportunities that show them what school looks like, and feels like, so they can be better prepared as learners and as students, she adds.

Another consideration is that parents continue to get their children involved in school earlier on, and more young students continue to engage with preschool opportunities.

Putting away their own toys helps children build independence.

“I’ve seen our needs in preschool grow significantly, just the number of students that we’ve seen come through, that we’re able to support and give an early childhood experience to has just exponentially increased,” Kassel says.

For those looking at preschool, Kassel encourages families to learn more about what preschool programs are available in the community. She also stresses the importance of not waiting until the last minute to sign kids up.

“We have parents that come in June, saying my child needs to be enrolled for the fall, and I know a lot of programs, not just in the district, but many of the local programs have been filled up for several months now. So, it’s important to be prepared and to enter a preschool program with an open mind,” Kassel says.

August 2022 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 29

P

Learn and Play with Preschoolers

By Elena Epstein, Director of the National Parenting Product Awards

Need some ideas to play at-home with your preschoolers? Here are game and product ideas from the

National Parenting Product Awards (NAPPA), which evaluates and tests all these play-ready for families.

Preschool Genius A set of dry-erase activities and games with a genius twist.

Includes beautifully illustrated activities that cover core learning outcomes as well as offering challenges like code-breaking and mapmaking that stimulate open-ended problem solving and creativity. $27.95, ages 3-6, Find at various retailers

Unlock It! Number Match These corresponding keys and locks give children hands-on practice with number recognition, matching and counting from 1 to 20—while building motor skills.

Match the number on a key to the number word or stars on a lock to open for instant reinforcement. $39.99, preschool-first grade, lakeshorelearning.com

My First Puzzle – Dinosaur The perfect first puzzle for kids.

The number of pieces is increased step by step to promote learning and engagement. $13.99, ages 2+, toiworld.com

Lift & Learn Inside of Me Kids can use their own x-ray vision to look inside the human body with this puzzle. As you peel away the layers, kids will be introduced to the body’s organs, muscles, the skeletal system and more. $14.99, ages 3 and older, tlji.com

Play Smart Challenging Series Help children develop the skills necessary to thrive with problem-solving in different ways, independence and awareness of environmental issues. $7.95, ages 2 and older, gakkenplusna.com

30 | PRESCHOOL GUIDE

Hazel’s Helpers This game helps develop decision-making, construction craft and planning capabilities in young learners. Play while practicing fine motor skills. $34, ages 4 and older, simplyfun.com

Techno Tiles Gives kids creative freedom in building their own masterpieces they can play with. From rockets to castles, vehicles, and abstract structures, imagination is limitless. $19.99, ages 4 and older, tlji.com

Design & Drill Toolbox Kids can build anywhere with this super creative learning set. The bolts and drill fit easily inside the bucket for on-the-go fun. $64.99, ages 3 and older, Find at various retailers

Numberblocks MathLink Cubes Activity Sets Use the special edition set to build your own friendly characters.

Through building, children see how numbers really work as they master counting, adding, subtracting, multiplying and dividing through handson discovery play. $24.99, ages 3 and older, Find at various retailers

Musical Farm Playset Sing, spin, dance, and play with these barnyard friends. Great for developing fine motor skills and handeye coordination. $29.95, ages 2 and older, battattoys.com

Ironing Time Learning Set Press into learning about shapes, colors and counting. This interactive iron plays songs, silly phrases and sound effects when kids move it back and forth. 10 plus learning activities. $14.99, ages 18 months and older, store.leapfrog.com

Poppy the Count & Stack Flower Pot Grow all new fine motor, color identification and counting skills.

Each flower comes with different colors and numbers for added learning fun. $14.99, ages 18 months and older, Find at various retailers

100 Things That Go Take a road trip to the land of learning with the interactive book. Hear 100+ words about modes of transportation from dog sleds and dump trucks to skates and school buses. $14.99, ages 18 months+, store.leapfrog.com

Luca & Friends Combine learning and fitness via cutting-edge AI motion technology. Using basic movements, players might stretch or jump in order to “touch” or “catch” the right answers. $14.99/month or $99.99/year, ages 4, lucafriends.com

Tac Tac Jack Be the best lumberjack by hitting the tree with the axe to gather bark blocks. But be careful not to remove the core blocks. $24.99, ages 3 and older, foxmind.com

OuiSi Nature A set of 210 visually-connecting photo cards. Features activities that foster creativity and ignite curiosity about our beautiful planet. $35, ages 4 and older, shop.ouisi.com

Toniebox Starter Bundle Using magnetic figures, toddlers and young children can navigate storytelling and music independently, opening up their world to a library of education and entertainment. Filled with content from premium partners including National Geographic, Penguin Random House and Levar Burton. Plus original content offering hours of storytelling, songs, mindfulness activities and more. $129.99, ages 3 and older, us.tonies.com

August 2022 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 31

PREPPING FOR

PRESCHOOL:

! e r o M & S POTTY TRAINING

By Lydia Mockensturm

tarting preschool is a big milestone for your child, so it’s understandable if you’re feeling a little nervous about the transition. Here’s what you can do to prepare your little one — and yourself — for the big day.

GETTING READY

“First, it’s a good idea to talk to your child a little bit about preschool, but try not to make it a big deal,” says Teece Lester, preschool coordinator at Lake Erie Nature and Science Center in Bay Village.“You don’t even have to say the word ‘school.’”

Instead, talk about some of the things they’ll be doing, like playing with friends or playing with new toys.

“Relate it to something they’re familiar with,” Lester says. If they’ve been to storytime at the library, it may be helpful to say: “It’s kind of like storytime, but you’ll get to stay and play with other kids.”

If your child hasn’t yet visited their preschool in person, schedule a tour.

This will help to familiarize them with the space and their teacher. Plus, your little one will see all of the toys they’ll get to play with in preschool, which can help get them excited about it.

SEPARATION ANXIETY

Having a short goodbye routine can be helpful if your child is anxious during the first few days of preschool.

Jennifer Jackson-Ausperk, LEAPS preschool supervisor at Avon

32 PRESCHOOLGUIDE GUIDE 32 || PRESCHOOL

!

g n i d Rea SUGGESTED

Lake City Schools, suggests using a special goodbye dance, a handshake, or even something as simple as blowing a few kisses before you leave.

“Of course, even with all of this preparation, some preschoolers will get upset and may cry at drop-off, but it’s important for you to stay calm,” she says. “Parents, please do not match their emotion. The longer the parent stays, the longer the child stays upset. Your best bet is to stay positive, stick with your routine, and keep the goodbye short.”

As a parent, it’s hard to see your little one cry when you leave, and their preschool teacher understands that. But most children calm down within a few minutes.

“They calm down really fast,” Lester says, adding, “much quicker than parents would like to believe.”

POTTY TRAINING

Most preschools require children to be potty trained before school starts. And while some preschools have a strict no pull-ups policy, others are a bit more flexible, especially during those first few weeks of school.

However, even a child that wears pull-ups normally may have no problem making it through their preschool class accident-free, says Jan Lorko, director of Suburban Cooperative Nursery School in Rocky River.

“We’re only here for two hours,” Lorko says, adding that most preschool aged children have the control to make it an hour or two (with reminders, of course). Still, accidents do happen, so pack an extra outfit with your child each day.

For state licensing, though, most preschool programs require children to be independent when it comes to using the toilet, wiping, and other potty training skills — you’ll want them to have these down before school starts.

If your child is starting preschool soon and isn’t quite there yet, Jackson-Ausperk recommends clearing your calendar for about a week to focus on potty training. Using incentives like prizes, sticker charts, or a bathroom bin filled with special toys and books can all be great motivators

to help move the process along.

“There are a lot of tactics,” Jackson-Ausperk says. “It depends on the kid and what motivates him or her.”

LEARNING THROUGH PLAY

Aside from being potty trained, there aren’t any special requirements for starting preschool. Rather than focusing on specific skills, spend some time really being present with your child and having fun together.“Children learn so much through play,” Lorko says, stressing the importance of making learning fun.

She suggests reading together every day, going for walks, playing board games, or cooking and baking together. Simple activities like these will teach your child helpful skills for preschool and beyond.

If there’s one thing that all preschool teachers can agree on, it’s that every child is different. As long as your child is potty trained and the right age for the program, you don’t need to worry too much about readiness, says Lester. “They come because they’re going to learn all of these skills.”

The Invisible String

by Patrice Karst

In this story, twins Jeremy and Liza learn about the invisible string made of love that connects us with our loved ones even when we’re apart.

The Kissing Hand

by Audrey Penn

When Chester Raccoon doesn’t want to go to school, his mother shares with him the secret of the Kissing Hand.

Llama Llama Misses Mama

by Anna Dewdney

Llama Llama doesn’t want to say goodbye to Mama Llama on his first day of preschool, but his new friends show him how fun school can be.

August August2022 2022--NortheastOhioParent.com NortheastOhioParent.com

|| 33 33

Is Your Child Ready for Full-or-Part Time Preschool?

by Georgia Lattas

L

et’s face it – deciding whether to send your preschooler to full time or part time preschool is a challenging choice. For some parents who work or have other obligations, full time preschool may be the only option – but what is the difference between full time and part time preschool? How can parents make the best decision for their 3-year-old?

CONSIDER OPTIONS

Each preschool program is different – some schools may only offer mornings and some schools might not offer a five-day schedule. Be sure to ask what different options are available for your preschooler and how frequently your child can attend preschool.

“Many families now are two-parent working households, so they need to have the full time care for them,” says Mary Beth Hilborn, interim co-director of Hawken Lower School.

“But if you’re a parent who has the option of keeping your child at home with you, then I think it is important to consider, how are they during the day? How is their stamina? When you’re thinking about length of day, if you have an option to keep your child at home, you want to think about what does their afternoon look like currently at the house? If they’re sleeping for a good portion of the afternoon, then it’s probably a good idea just to have them attend school in the morning.”

Children who have spent time away from their parents, such as by attending a camp or by attending daycare, may be better equipped to handle time away from their parents, but this is not always the case. Be sure to explain to your little one the process of preschool and that they will not see Mom or Dad for a little while.

34 | PRESCHOOL GUIDE

“Children who have experienced time away from their parents prior to entering preschool in some ways do come better equipped to manage full time preschool,” Danielle Hunter, director of education at The Nest Schools, says.

“For these children, they have had the chance to learn how to trust and build quality relationships with other caring adults, they feel safe in classroom environments, and they have learned to be around larger groups of children where they have likely experienced social struggles such as sharing toys, taking turns, and speaking up for themselves. Exposure to these things listed above provide a solid foundation of skills necessary for thriving in a preschool environment. Without them children wonder: am I safe here? Is this a place or person I can trust to care for me when I am away from my parents?

What is my role in this environment?”

PREPARE TO LEARN

A full day of school is a long day for children of all ages, and it can be an endurance test for children of preschool age.

“There are a lot of things children need to learn in preschool,” says Bob Rosenbaum, who manages communications for Hanna Perkins Center. “At the top of the list is that we want them to learn to enjoy school — so it becomes their choice to go, rather than something they’re compelled to do. Families can’t always accommodate a half-day preschool schedule in today’s world. But for young children, it’s a more manageable length of time. And no matter how long the day is, if the first school experience is of mom or dad disappearing and worrying if they’re coming back, it’s not a step in the right direction.”

For some children, engaging in this social environment may be especially challenging due to the pandemic.

“It’s interesting to see this group of children and see if masking has had an effect on their ability to read social cues from friends,” Hilborn says.“Depending on how many people they interacted with and who was masked, we’ll see how that affected them. So it’s kind of a question mark if the pandemic affected these children.”

“The pandemic has had a drastic impact on the social and emotional development of our youth,” Hunter says. “Those that either never attended a childcare setting or experienced prolonged absence at one point and time during the last few years really lost out on opportunities to learn and practice new social skills in the most authentic way possible: with and amongst their fellow peers. For many children they lost this time during the pandemic, but it is not impossible to rebuild. It is important for preschools to place as much value on these skills and the overall social-emotional well being and development of their children as they do any other area. Children without solid social-emotional development and skills will struggle to master the more academic pieces too. It all works together – when one area is lacking, they all will be affected.”

BEFORE YOU GO

While the pandemic raises lots of concerns for parents and can factor into whether your child attends part time or full time preschool, always be sure to ask your school for protocol relating to COVID-19 and what steps are in place to make your child more comfortable and

safe at school.

Determining whether your child is ready for full time or part time preschool can be a challenge. Most pre-kindergarteners, who are usually 4 years old, typically attend a five-day schedule.

“Some people may be wondering what makes a 4-year-old more equipped to handle a full-day schedule rather than a 3-year-old,” Hilborn says. “I just think it’s a developmental readiness. If they’ve been in our program for preschool, they’ve been here at least three mornings a week. Adding just another two mornings is a really good step for 4-year-olds.”

Most parents are concerned that their preschooler won’t be able to handle a full-day schedule because their child is too attached and doesn’t like to spend time away from Mom or Dad. “Children are often more comfortable in situations that present familiar environments, so bringing your child to the preschool and having them see the classroom and meet the teacher can calm their nerves.”

“Showing children that you feel this is a safe place and that you are excited is going to help them feel safe and ready,” Hunter says, “When we save the first visit for the very first day, tension is already high because you know that the drop off is going to be hard and those feelings spill over onto your child.”

While it may be difficult to know for certain if your child is ready for preschool, Hilborn and Hunter say parents should be aware of these telltale signs.

“See how they are during unstructured play time,” Hilborn says. “Do they have the attention to focus on something for a little bit more than five minutes at a time? There’s an indicator that they might be ready to be in a focused environment. Can they be around children,

have they been around children and been able to socially navigate and work alongside other children? Have they had experiences playing on a playground or going to a storytime or having some other kind of interaction with other children and do they seem to positively enjoy that? Can they stop one activity and move to another? Are they able to transition from one activity to another and feel good about that?

Are they independent? Those are telltale signs that a child might be ready for a school experience.”

“While we would love to provide a “one size fits all” model that determines preschool readiness, this is not the case,” Hunter says.

“Every child is going to be different when de-

termining if they are “ready” for preschool.

There are, however, some general things you may want to consider: Do they have the stamina to withstand a preschool schedule? Do they enjoy being around other children? Can they participate in group experiences? Can they work independently? Are they relatively independent? Have they expressed interest in going to school? How do they feel being away from you during the day? How do you, as their parent, feel about them entering school? The most important advice for knowing when your child is ready for preschool is to trust your instincts as their parent. You will know when the right time is and what the right program is for your child.”

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Listings

B

36 | PRESCHOOL GUIDE

Curiosity, Collaboration & Joyful Learning We are excited to share the Ruffing Montessori community with you. Schedule your tour today by calling Julie or Rosie at 216.321.7571.

Save the date : OPEN HOUSE NOVEMBER 12

18 months–8th grade

3380 Fairmount Boulevard, Cleveland Heights

ruffingmontessori.net

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Listings CANTON COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

Canton Country Day School is Canton’s premier private school providing superior academics, social, wellness and community support to students, preschool to eighth grade. Nestled onto a breathtaking 40-acre campus in the heart of Stark County, Canton Country Day provides individualized education to its students.

They seek to ignite students’ confidence and character, while developing academic responsibility and rigor in an interactive and innovative environment. cantoncountryday.org

CLEVELAND MONTESSORI SCHOOL

Cleveland Montessori has been serving the Little Italy and Greater Cleveland Community for over 25 years, providing an education for life, which celebrates diversity, growth and joy. Students from preschool through eighth grade are met with respect and compassion as they strive to meet their individual potential in beautifully prepared classrooms that offer social, emotional and academic experiences in a unique urban setting. Apply now for 2022-23. 216-421-0700, info@clevelandmontessori.org, clevelandmontessori.org

CREATIVE PLAYROOMS

Creative Playrooms Montessori and Child Care Centers give children a leg up as they begin to climb the ladder of lifetime learning. Their gifted educators help kids fall in love with learning, and their centers focus on enriching the whole child — physically, emotionally, and cognitively — through their traditional and play-based Montessori approach. As an award-winning childcare provider with six locations and 50-plus years of experience in the Greater Cleveland area, Creative Playrooms offers multiple programs for infants through school-age, but also provides families an additional choice of traditional or montessori programs. creativeplayrooms.com

EMPOWERED EARLY LEARNING ACADEMY

The Empowered Early Learning Academy provides high quality preschool for ages 3 to 5. We believe that empowering children happens when families, community, and educators support the whole child. At EELA, the curriculum is STEAM based and individualized for the success of each student: socially, emotionally, and academically. We educate the whole child and family in a hands-on, play-based, inclusive, and fun-filled preschool. EELA welcomes you and your child! empoweredacademies.com

FAIRMOUNT EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER

Fairmount Early Childhood Center creates an environment where learning is fun and play is important. Hands-on learning activities stimulate and challenge the students to encourage social, emotional, intellectual and physical growth. The curriculum is aligned with the Ohio Early Learning & Development Standards and developmentally appropriate practices.It balances both teacher-directed and child-initiated learning, with an emphasis on responding to children’s learning style.

Fairmount offers half-day and all-day programs for ages 3 to 5. beachwoodschools.org/fairmount.aspx

GILMOUR’S MONTESSORI PRESCHOOL PROGRAM

Toddler (18 months to age 3) —three or five days/week; half-or full-day.

Pre-kindergarten (ages 3-4)— five days/week; half-,three-quarter- or full-day.

Montessori students enjoy unique opportunities including Spanish instruction and experiential learning opportunities such as collecting eggs from their chicken coop.

Before and after care available for those who would like to extend their day. Students then move seamlessly into the Lower School for grades kindergarten through 12th, where they continue to develop as curious learners. gilmour.org

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Listings HAWKEN

Hawken School, a co-ed toddler through 12th grade day school, offers a nationally recognized early childhood program on its Lyndhurst campus. The school’s forward-focused mission of preparation through the development of character and intellect applies to even its youngest students through a dual commitment to academic and social curricula.

Teachers put students at the center of learning by focusing on language development, science inquiry, math awareness, creative arts exploration, and social and emotional growth. hawken.edu

LAKE ERIE NATURE & SCIENCE CENTER

As one of the first and largest nature-based preschool programs in the region, Lake Erie Nature & Science Center serves children ages 1 to 6 with age-appropriate activities to support social, physical and academic development. Children explore the wonders of science and nature with hands-on activities, crafts, music, live animal encounters, and planetarium shows.

The surrounding 100-acre parkland and access to Lake Erie serve as an extended classroom for outdoor adventures. Learn more at lensc.org/preschool-programs.

OUR LADY OF MOUNT CARMEL

Start your child’s education off right at Our Lady of Mount Carmel School. Their full-day preschool program is located on the West Side of Cleveland and services both 3 and 4-year-olds. They adapt programs to the needs of their students, providing a unique experience for all of their preschoolers. Their preschool program collaborates directly with their school, providing a seamless transition into kindergarten. For more information please contact, reynoldsj@olmc-cleveland.org or call 216-281-7146.

OUR LADY OF THE ELMS

For 100 years, Elms students have been encouraged to explore through play-based learning and hands-on activities. Preschoolers develop kindergarten readiness skills with a focus on pre literacy through the scholastic curriculum. Their co-ed preschool program is designed for ages 3-5. Small class sizes allow for personalized instruction. On their 33-acre campus in West Akron students enjoy STEAM projects, playground activities, and urban farming. 1375 West Exchange St., Akron, 330-836-9384, theelms.org

PRE4CLE

PRE4CLE is a collective impact initiative implementing Cleveland’s plan to expand access to high-quality preschool to all 3- and 4-year-olds in the city. PRE4CLE helps families find and enroll in high-quality preschool programs; connects preschool providers to tools, resources, and key partners to increase their quality and serve more children; and provides strategic leadership and advocacy to accelerate the availability of high-quality preschool in Cleveland. For more information, visit pre4cle.org

RUFFING MONTESSORI SCHOOL

Ruffing Montessori School in Cleveland Heights is more than just a school for children ages 18 months through eighth grade. It is a beloved community where bright, curious children are guided by experienced Montessori-trained teachers and immersed in a rigorous curriculum.

Boasting beautifully curated indoor and outdoor classroom spaces, see for yourself why Ruffing is the compelling school of choice for so many. Schedule a tour today by calling Julie or Rosie at 216-321-7571, ruffingmontessori.net

We offer content for

kids, too!

View KidStream videos online at NortheastOhioParent.com 40 | PRESCHOOL GUIDE

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42 | Family Living at Its Best

August CAlenDAR

Find more events at NortheastOhioParent.com

Fun Ways to Cool Off

pick - a - day TUESDAYS & THURSDAYS

Summer Days at Nickajack Farms. Enjoy the summer fun thru 8/18. 2955 Manchester Ave., Canal Fulton, nickajackfarms.com

WEDNESDAYS

Centennial Plaza Movie Series.

Free outdoor family-friendly movies. thru 8/17 at 7 p.m. Centennial Plaza, Downtown Canton, cantonpalacetheatre.org Fun on the Farm. Pony, cart and horse rides. 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Spring Mist Farms, 691 Pearl Road, Brunswick Hills, springmistfarms.com Teen Zone Pop-Up. Stop by for a different craft, game or activity each week. 3:30-5 p.m. Noble Neighborhood Branch Library, 2800 Noble Rd., Cleveland, heightslibrary.org

THROUGH 8/31

Dinosaurs of Antarctica. Roam the primitive forests and thick swamps with bizarre dinosaurs and colossal amphibians.

Great Lakes Science Center, 601 Erieside Ave., Cleveland, greatscience.com

THURSDAYS

Tween & Tween Night. Games, trivia, movies and pizza. First and third Thursdays. 6-9 p.m. Thompson Branch Library, 6645 Madison Rd., divi.geaugalibrary.net

SATURDAYS

Family Gardening. Enjoy a story, working in the community garden followed by a snack. 4-5:30 p.m.

South Lorain Branch Library, 2121 Homewood Dr., lorainpubliclibrary.org

SUNDAYS

Family FUNday. Family-friendly games, movement-based activities, art, and more. First Sunday of the month. 1-4 p.m. Community Arts Center, West 25th St., Cleveland, clevelandart.org

8/11-9/11

Disney’s Frozen. An unforgettable, magical adventure. State Theatre at Playhouse Square, 1519 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, playhousesquare.org

day - by - day 8/4

Chardon KidsFest & Flea Market.

10 a.m.-1 p.m. (Flea Market). Noon3 p.m. (KidsFest). Chardon Square, chardonsquareassociation.org

8/5

Teen Tea. Youth who are adopted or living with extended family or in foster care ages 11+ are invited to this peer support group. 5 p.m.

12200 Fairhill Road, Cleveland, adoptionnetwork.org

8/5-7 & 8/12-14

Shrek the Musical, Jr. Everyone’s favorite ogre is back in this hilarious stage spectacle. French Creek Theatre, 4530 Colorado Ave., Sheffield Village, loraincountymetroparks.com

8/14

Ice Cream Social. Lorain Historical Society is holding its annual social, with hand-scooped ice cream sundaes, pony rides, games, music and more. 1-4 p.m. Carnegie Center 329 W 10th Street Lorain, lorainhistory.org

8/7

Zoothing Hour. Open early for guests with different abilities who do not like loud noises and/or crowds. 9-10- a.m. Akron Zoo, 505 Euclid Ave., Akron, akronzoo.org Meet the Machines. Explore construction equipment, emergency and service vehicles, and machines of all sizes. Noon-4 p.m.

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

8/8

Pre-K Social Emotional Learning.

Help your preschoolers begin to develop social emotional skills. 11 a.m. Domonkas Branch Library, 4125 E. Lake Road, Sheffield Lake, lorainpubliclibrary.org Reach for Your Dreams. Celebrate going back to school by making a dream board. Ages 10-14. 6:30-7:30 p.m. Willoughby Public Library, 30 Public Square, we247.org

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August CALENDAR

8/9

Intro to Archery for Kids. Ages 9-16 Learn the basics of archery.

1-2:30 p.m. Chickagami Park, 17957 Tavern Road, Parkman Twp., geaugaparkdistrict.org

Kindergarten Club. For children who do not attend preschool, Head Start or childcare. 12:301:30 p.m. North Olmsted Branch Library, 27403 Lorain Rd., cuyahogalibrary.org

8/10

Nature Play. Cultivate your young one’s natural curiosity while joining a naturalist. 10-11:30 a.m. Goodyear Heights Pioneer Area, 550 Frazier Ave., Akron, summitmetroparks.org

8/11

Eating the Alphabet.

Children learn about fruits and vegetables for each letter of the alphabet. 2-3 p.m. Hough Branch Library, 1566 Crawford Rd., Cleveland, cpl.org

8/12

Petting Zoo2Go. Come see some fun barnyard friends. 1 p.m. Hudson Library & Historical Society, 96 Library St., hudsonlibrary.org

8/12-13

Moths & Meteors Overnight Event. 9 p.m.-6 a.m. Observatory Park, 10610 Clay St., Montville Township, geaugaparkdistrict.org

44 | Family Living at Its Best

8/13

Loveable Bugs. Learn about the diversity of insects. Noon-5 p.m.

Susan Hambley Nature Center,1473 Parschen Blvd., Brunswick, medinacountyparks.com Super Star Party. A far-out celebration. 7-11 p.m. Penitentiary Glen Reservation, 8668 Kirtland Chardon Rd., Willoughby, lakemetroparks.com Touch-A-Truck. Sit in and explore more than a dozen Summit Metro Parks and local emergency response vehicles. 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Munroe Falls Lake Area, 521 S. River Rd., summitmetroparks.org Daddy & Daughter Hair Factory. Spend the day with your child and learn some easy hairstyles. 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Mentor Public Library, 8215 Mentor Ave., mentorpl.org

8/13-14

Civil War Weekend. Travel back in time and interact with soldiers, cavalry and civilians of the 1960’s. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Hale Farm & Village, 2686 Oak Hill Rd., Bath, wrhs.org

8/14

Family Fun Craft Experience.

Get crafty with upcycle buffet.

1:30 p.m. Maltz Museum of Jewish Heritage, 2929 Richmond Rd., Beachwood, maltzmuseum.org Richfield Community Day. Entertainment, children’s games, food, fireworks, community activities and more. 1 p.m. richfieldvillageohio.org

Family Movie Night: Lilo & Stitch.

Enjoy a movie under the stars.

8:45-11:45 p.m. Lock 3, 200 S. Main St., Akron, lock3live.com Akron Family Recipes. Author Judy James will share her stories of compiling family recipes. 2-3 p.m. Akron Public Library, 60 High St., akronlibrary.org

8/16

Craftasticon for Teens. Enjoy this craft that uses beautiful sea glass stones. 5-6 p.m. Reed Memorial Library, 167 E. Main St., Ravenna, reedlibrary.org Curious Kids. STEAM club for 3rd5th graders to explore, create, work as a team, problem-solve.

7-8 p.m. Westlake Porter Public Library, 27333 Center Ridge Rd., westlakelibrary.org VolunTEENS. Have fun, make friends while helping at the mobile food pantry. 12:30-2:30 p.m. Bedford Branch Library, 70 Columbus Rd., Bedford, cuyahogalibrary.org

8/17

Outdoor Gaming. A video gaming truck, oversized board games and more. 3-6 p.m. Euclid Public Library, 631 E. 222nd St., euclidlibrary.org

8/18

Owl Cry if I Want To. Listen for this year’s babies figuring out how to be an owl! 9-10 a.m. Quail Hollow Park, 13480 Congress Lake Ave., Hartville, starkparks.com

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August CALENDAR

8/19

Bat Night. Keep your eyes to the skies to catch bats in flight. 7:309:30 p.m. Lakeview Cemetery, 12316 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, shakerlakes.org Sensory STEAM. Story time, experiments, and sensory experiences.

11-11:30 a.m. Twinsburg Public Library, 10050 Ravenna Rd., twinsburglibrary.org

8/21

Meet an Owl. Enjoy the chance to see feathers, skulls, and talons.

Noon-1 p.m. North Chagrin Reservation Nature Center, 401 Buttermilk Falls Pkwy., Mayfield Village, clevelandmetroparks.com

Reading with Rover. Designed to help readers of all ages build confidence. 10-11 a.m. Thompson Branch Library, 6645 Madison Rd., Thompson, geaugalibrary.net

8/27-28

Milk & Honey Weekend. Explore the world of milk and honey at the Lake Metroparks Farmpark. 9 a.m.5 p.m. 8800 Euclid Chardon Rd., Kirtland, lakemetroparks.com

8/28

Family Hike: Monarch Mania. Learn about monarch butterflies and hike to look for and tag them. 2 p.m. Mentor Marsh, 5185 Corduroy Rd., Mentor, cmnh.org

8/27

8/31

Hudson Screen on the Green: Spider-Man: No Way Home. 8:30 p.m. First & Main Green, First Street, firstandmainhudson.com

9/6

Family Fun Day. Music, art activities, fishing, hiking and field games. Noon-4 pm. Kendall Lake Shelter, 1000 Truxell Rd., Peninsula, conservancyforcvnp.org

Solon Pop-Up in the Park. Artisans, food trucks and more. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Solon Community Park, 6679 SOM Center Rd., solonohio.org

Finding Fungi. Learn the basics of mycology and enjoy a hike to look for some common species.

6-7:30 p.m. Quail Hollow Park, 13480 Congress Lake Ave., Hartville, starkparks.com

Student Advocacy Team. Students are invited to discuss teen issues related to community and library. 3:30 p.m. Rocky River Public Library, 1600 Hampton Rd., rrpl.org

- SPONSORED CONTENT -

WHERE KIDS CAN TOUCH THE ART!

YOUNG FAMILY AUDIENCES GET ARTSY AT MALTZ MUSEUM’S NEW SPECIAL EXHIBITION, CHAGALL FOR CHILDREN: WHERE KIDS CAN TOUCH THE ART

BEACHWOOD (May 17, 2022) – A new interactive children’s exhibition has arrived in Beachwood! Chagall for Children: Where Kids Can Touch the Art launched at the Maltz Museum of Jewish Heritage with an all-day event celebrating the art of theater, music, and magic. An estimated 350 guests, of all ages and backgrounds, joined together at the opening to enjoy featured guests Mandel Jewish Community Center’s Playmakers Youth Theater, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s Mike Abbadini, and master magician Scott Shuller. The special exhibition is on view through August 28. Weekly morning story times at the museum will occur every Thursday through August 18. Plus, monthly family events will include interactive art projects with the Children’s Museum of Cleveland, Spirit of Clay Art Studio, and Upcycle Parts Shop For information about the exhibition, any family or adult programs, or to buy tickets, call 216-593-0575 or visit www.maltzmuseum.org.

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Last Days of Summer Festivals

8/5-7

Twins Days Festival. The world’s largest gathering of twins and other multiples. Glenn Chamberlin Park, 10260 Ravenna Rd., Twinsburg, twinsdays.org

8/6

Lakewood Arts Festival.

A festival of local and national artists, musical entertainment, and more.

10 a.m.-6 p.m. Downtown Lakewood, lakewoodartsfest.org

8/6-7

Arts in the Park. More than 100 artists from around the midwest and beyond, children’s make and take, and more.

Lakeview Park, Port Clinton, portclintonartistsclub. com/59-2

8/6-21

Sunflower Festival. Three acres of sunflowers, flower cutting, live music, and more. Coshocton KOA, 24688 County Rd. 10, Coshocton, coshoctonsun flowerfestival.com

8/7

The FEST. Performances by national Christian musical artists, Kids Zone, and more. Center for Pastoral Leadership, 28700 Euclid Ave., Wickliffe, thefest.us Chardon Square Arts Festival. Over 100 artists both local and out of state. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Chardon Square, chardon squareassociation.org/ events/arts-festival

8/12-13

Bath/Richfield Community Day Weekend. Entertainment, games, food, community activities, fireworks and more. richfieldvillageohio.org/ 376/Community-Day

8/12-14

North Ridgeville Corn Festival. Fireworks, corn eating contest, kids’ games, and live entertainment. North Ridgeville School Campus, 34600 Bainbridge Rd., nrcornfest.org

8/12-15

8/19-20

Mentor CityFest. Color Dash & Walk, CityFest Parade, arts and crafts vendors, food and more.

Civic Center Park, 8500 Civic Center Blvd., Mentor, mentorcityfest.com

8/21 & 8/28

Sunflower Festival. Acres of sunflowers, artisans and more. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Maize Valley Winery & Craft Brewery, 6193 Edison St., Hartville, maizevalley.com

8/27-28

Little Italy’s Feast of the Assumption. Italian foods, live music, and rides.

Holy Rosary Church, 12021 Mayfield Road, Cleveland, holy-rosary.org

Cleveland Garlic Festival.

Garlic cook off, music, vendors, kids area, and more. North Union Farmers Market, 13111 Shaker Square, Cleveland, clevelandgarlicfestival.org

8/13

9/2-5 & 9/9-10

Fun Fest. Free family festival with arts, crafts, music, and more. 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Downtown Massillon, massillonmuseum.org/ fun-fest The Fairmount Fun Festival. Performances, arts activities, and more!

Noon-4 p.m. Fairmount Center for the Arts, 8400 Fairmount Road, Novelty, fairmountcenter.org

8/14

Affair on the Square.

Over 140 makers of the finest handmade crafts, great music and delicious treats. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Medina Public Square, affaironthesquare.net

8/9-14

125th Annual Cuyahoga County Fair. Rides, farm animals, bake-off, circus, dog shows and much more. Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds, 19201 E. Bagley Rd., Berea, cuyfair.com

Cleveland Oktoberfest.

An exciting menu of activities and entertainment to delight young and old alike. Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds, 19201 E. Bagley Rd., Middleburg Hts., clevelandoktoberfest.com

9/17

Cleveland Pickle Fest.

Noon-7 p.m. Mall B, 300 St. Clair Ave. NE, Cleveland, clevelandpicklefest.com

Labor Day Weekend events 9/2-4

Akron Pizza Fest. A 3-day food and music festival including pizza-eating contests, kids activities and live music. Lock 3, 200 S. Main St., Akron, akronpizzafest.com Made in Ohio Arts & Crafts Festival. Ohio artisans, local food and entertainment. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Hale Farm & Village, 2686 Oak Hill Rd., Bath, wrhs.org

9/2-5

Cleveland Oktoberfest. An exciting menu of activities and entertainment to delight young and old alike.

Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds, 19201 E. Bagley Road, Middleburg Hts., clevelandoktoberfest.com Barberton Labor Day BBQ & Music Fest. Family activities, rib burn-off and live music. Lake Anna Gazebo, 615 W. Park Ave. barbertonlaborday.com

9/3

Peninsula Flea at Heritage Farms.

Upscale flea market. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

6050 Riverview Rd., Peninsula, heritagefarms.com

9/3-4

Stow Summer Sunset Blast. Fireworks, community picnic, games and more. 5-10 p.m. Silver Springs Park, 5238 Young Rd., Stow, stowohio.org The Sound of Music. The treasured musical by the legendary Rodgers and Hammerstein. 7 p.m. Blossom Music Center, 1145 W. Steels Corners Rd., Cuyahoga Falls, clevelandorchestra.com Ukrainian Festival. Live music, raffle, ethnic food and children’s activities.

St. Andrew Ukrainian Catholic Church, 7700 Hoertz Rd., Parma, standrewucc.org

9/3-5

Cleveland National AirShow. Featuring the U.S. Navy Blue Angels. Burke Lakefront Airport, Downtown Cleveland between East Ninth and East 55th streets, clevelandairshow.com

9/4 & 9/6

Labor Day Flea Market. Over 12 acres of outdoor vendors. 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Hartville Marketplace & Flea Market, 1289 Edison St. NW, Hartville, hartvillemarketplace.com

48 | Family Living at Its Best

Your Aging PARENTS

Is Dad and Mom’s Diet Impacting their Health?

A

recent study found that the quality of diets for older adults has declined.

Some insight into why that is and what can be done about it.

A recent 2022 study shows the quality of diets for adults, who are 65 and older, declined between 2001 and 2018.

So, what is causing this concerning trend?

Dr. Ronan Factora from the Cleveland Clinic, who was not a part of the study, says there are a number of issues that could be playing a role.

“As you get older, your sense of smell goes down, sense of taste is affected and you don’t tend to like food as much as before – your memory of the way food tastes is not the same

as when you eat,” Factora says. “There are medical problems that can affect your sense of taste and smell and affect your appetite.”

He adds other reasons may include the type of medication they’re taking, they may have lost their spouse who normally cooked for them, or there could be financial issues which are preventing them from buying healthier foods.

The quality of diet is important for older adults because it can impact their physical and mental health.

Factora knows it may be difficult to improve a person’s diet if they have different barriers standing in the way, but there are some easy things they can do. For example, eating more

fruits and vegetables, along with lean meats, or adding more color in the diet, the better.

If you are concerned about a loved one’s diet, try to gently remind them about the importance of a healthy diet. You could also encourage them to speak with their physician for advice.

“You can always get the benefit of good nutrition at any time of your life,” he says. “And there’s always the daily impact of good nutrition on your health, on your gut health, on your mobility. And then down the line, the more that you adhere to these good dietary habits, the better off you’re going to be,” — Cleveland Clinic News Wire, visit my.clevelandclinic.org

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#CLE MAMA

SARA CARNES • Facebook = Sara Carnes • Instagram = saracarnes4

Check in While You Check

SARA CARNES DAUGHTER, REAGAN, SHARES HOW SHE FEELS ABOUT BACK-TO-SCHOOL TIME. PHOTO BY SARA CARNES

Off Your Back to School List

FROM THE STUDENT’S DESK: A PERSPECTIVE ON THE UPCOMING SCHOOL YEAR

I

can’t believe it... we’re already heading back to school soon. I remember always being excited for school, but always maybe a little nervous too. I got to thinking... I wonder how my daughter is feeling about going back to school this year. Sometimes I get so caught up in checking off items on the school supply list, or my to do list that I forget to ask her how she is feeling about the upcoming year. My youngest daughter Reagan is now entering the seventh grade. Time really does fly.... and with each year it brings so many new wonderful things.

So, here is my daughter’s perspective on going back to school this year...You can use these prompt questions to gauge how your kids are feeling too!

50 | Family Living at Its Best

WHAT ARE YOU

LOOKING FORWARD TO THE MOST?

WHAT ARE YOU DOING THIS SUMMER TO PREPARE FOR THE UPCOMING SCHOOL

HOW DO YOU THINK SCHOOL WILL BE

Reagan: “This summer I am doing a few things to prepare for the school year.

First, I am going shopping for supplies that I need during the year. I’m also creating an organized place to do studying and homework. Another thing I have been doing is reading a lot. I have been using audiobooks to get through more books.”

Reagan: “What I am looking forward to the most about going back to school is trying new things. I personally am excited to learn a foreign language and play oboe in my school band. I love trying new things so that’s what I’m most excited for.”

DIFFERENT IN THE 2022–2023 YEAR?

Reagan: “The most different things will probably be all the Covid restrictions, hopefully by now most, if not all, school Covid restrictions will be gone.”

YEAR?

WHAT ARE YOUR

BACK TO SCHOOL MUST-HAVES?

Reagan: “My biggest back to school must-have is a positive attitude. If you don’t have a positive attitude you most likely won’t succeed.”

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