Northeast Ohio Parent | January 2024

JANUARY 2024

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10 Ye ar s

PRESCHOOL GUIDE

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January 2024 - NortheastOhioParent.com

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Tuesday, March 9-31 • Free admission

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4 | Family Living at Its Best

PHOTO BY PRELUDE PHOTOGRAPHY

Editor's Note

We Begin Again — While We Look Back

VOL. NO. 11 • ISSUE NO. 01

I remember the night before I had to work at my new job at Northeast Ohio Parent 10 years ago.

We were in the middle of a huge snow storm and polar vortex with the new year just beginning.

While I thought I was safe with my new snow tires, the flakes were thick and sticking to the roads that morning. I drove 30 miles in treacherous weather to our office and I was super late to work — on my first day.

From there, it all happened, from launching the first-ever issue in March 2014 with WKYC Channel 3 news anchor Kris Pickel and her family on the cover to now doing more than we ever have than just print — podcast, events, online and our social media platforms.

The decade has gone by fast — and honestly, I’ve had a lot of fun connecting with readers and their stories.

To celebrate 10 years of this magazine, this year, we will spotlight some of those stories and people.

But as we reflect back, it’s also time to move forward — and we start with this month.

I am hoping there is no snow apocalypse this year as I do want some playtime this winter. So that’s why we decided to give you plenty of options, whether you plan to do things indoors or outdoors. And, If you haven’t been to the theater lately, this is the perfect time to catch a show with your kids.

In this issue, it’s also back to class after that long winter break — and our articles provide some tips to get in the swing of things. My family — and likely yours — will get comfortable in that old routine —school, work and after school activities.

I do miss those preschool years where it was exciting to send my boys to school, because I know it was just the start of their educational journey.

It’s about making that right choice in a school and as parents, we don’t take that lightly. If you are looking for a preschool, check out our options in this magazine or at NortheastOhioParent.com.

In thinking about my own journey as a mom at the start of 2024, I feel eager and optimistic. I feel my kids have so many opportunities that maybe I didn’t have —it’s neat to see when they grab them, go and succeed.

As the Parent editor, I feel that same eagerness to keep going and see what new resources I can find to help you, the readers, wherever you are in your parenthood.

And, looking back at that day a decade ago, I’m just thankful that after arriving late, they let me stay.

January 2024 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 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 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 CUSTOMER SUCCESS MANAGER/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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Worth Noting

WHY do babies SMILE in their sleep?

By Lori Orlinsky

Y

ou know the saying never wake a sleeping baby? Perhaps a partial reason for that is because babies simply look adorable when they are asleep — they are always smiling. Seeing those sweet smiles makes it easy to wonder what they are dreaming about. Their next feeding?

Their parents? Or, is this simply just gas? We sat down with Dr. Shelly Senders, founder and CEO of Senders Pediatrics in South Euclid to shed some light on the mystery of the newborn smile.

When smiling starts Believe it or not, babies actually start learning and practicing how to smile in utero, around 33 weeks. Since they are still continuing to master this reflexive skill after birth, sleep is one of the most common times to see a baby smile during the newborn period. These infant smiles are almost always accompanied by squinted eyes, slow blinks and a slow cooing or gurgling sound.

It is important to make the distinction that unlike

6 | Family Living at Its Best

reflexive smiles, social smiles (in response to someone or something) tend to come around three months of age.

However, both types of smiles indicate normal development for a baby.

They’re in active sleep Senders says that while adults have four stages of sleep, infants have only three —quiet sleep, indeterminate sleep and active sleep. Active sleep is similar to Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep in adults, during which time, most dreams originate. Babies spend about 50 percent of their sleep time in active sleep while adults spend only 20 percent in REM sleep.

“Most smiles occur during this active sleep phase which leads some researchers to believe that they are smiling in response to positive dream imagery,” Senders says.

Unlike REM sleep in adults where the body is paralyzed, during active sleep in a newborn, they will often twitch, make sucking motions and move their limbs, Senders says.

They are practicing using their facial muscles Researchers believe spontaneous smiles that occur during sleep may help develop the muscles used to smile.

“Smiling may serve as a precursor to complex facial expressions and social skills during daytime,” Senders says.

“Infants are remarkably capable of learning.”

Smiling relieves stress on the body In babies, children and adults, smiling releases the neurochemicals serotonin, dopamine and endorphins, which cause relaxation, lower heart rate and reduce blood pressure.

“Smiling during sleep may serve as a natural painkiller to help deal with the stresses on the body during infant development,” Senders says. “Moreover, serotonin levels in the newborn brain may modulate the infant sleep wake cycle and help the body shift from the in-utero pattern of sleeping more during the day to the desired infant pattern of sleeping more at night.”

NEO Parent Crafting with Kids: FINGERPRINT SNOWMAN By: Krystin Fletcher

READIN

G ROOM

January is the time for resolutions.

Commit or recommit to reading with your child every night. But make sure to keep it fun for you and for them.

Did you know that rereading a story with your child is beneficial? Make a pile of your favorites or theirs and read through the long winter nights. Karen Kelly Grasso, Children’s Librarian at Jefferson Campus of Cleveland Public Library, suggests these popular favorite books to get you started. (cpl.org)

The Velveteen Rabbit

by Margery Williams Bianco, illustrated by William Nicholson This is the story of a toy rabbit who longs, above else, to be real. Through the love of a child, he is loved until he is battered and worn, and discovers what it takes to become real.

Green Eggs and Ham

by Dr. Seuss This Dr. Seuss classic uses only 50 words to create a lively adventure as Sam tries to convince a friend to try something new. The limited vocabulary makes it great for an early reader and the lively use of adverbs helps a youngster learn concepts like “here,” “there” and “anywhere.”

The Little Engine that Could

by Watty Piper, illustrated by George and Doris Hauman This classic tale of the small engine that takes on a task rejected by larger, more powerful engines demonstrates the power of believing in yourself. We can all take a lesson from “I think I can.” The bright illustrations provide a lot to talk about and share.

Frog and Toad are Friends

by Arnold Lobel This book of short stories is perfect for a young reader. With the gentle friendship between two talking creatures, there will be lots of opportunities to share stories together.

Build the perfect snowman while staying warm and cozy inside.

MATERIALS:

• Sturdy White Paper • Construction Paper • Markers • Scissors • Masking Tape • Glue • Round Items for Tracing

• White & Blue Craft Paints

OPTIONAL ADDITIONAL MATERIALS:

• Q-Tips • Glitter/Glitter Glue • Mod Podge to add a glossy finish`

STEPS: Start by tracing and cutting out three different sized circles on a piece of construction paper. The color of the paper for this does not matter, these circles will act as a barrier for the paint and will be thrown out after.

• Once the outline is painted, you can con-

three circles to the white paper in the shape of your snowman.

• Allow your paint to dry for a little while

•

• Using masking tape loops, attach the

• Now it’s time to start painting! Dip one

finger into the paint and start making thumbprints or fingerprints. Be sure to do fingerprints all along the edge of the shape first. This will make the outline of the snowman show up. If you prefer to

REC

avoid messy hands or have a kiddo who isn’t a fan of painted fingers, q-tips work great for this too. tinue to fill the remaining white paper with painted fingerprints. I like to use a variety of blues and the white so it looks like snow falling.

before removing the paper circles. When removing be sure not to rip the white paper underneath.

• To finish your snowman, use the other

construction paper colors to cut out decorations such as coal eyes/buttons and a carrot nose.

IPE OF THE MONTH

Make-Ahead Breakfast: Easy Egg Cups

By Melissa Koski Carney

Getting back into the swing of things after the holiday season can be hard. One thing that makes it easier for us is pre-made, healthy breakfasts. These egg cups can be prepped over the weekend and reheated in the morning to be enjoyed all week long.

HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED:

• 12 eggs • 12 slices of medium-sliced deli ham • Salt and pepper, to taste • About 1 cup of your preferred optional topping: 1 cup cheese, 1 cup canned black or pinto beans, 1 cup cooked veggies (we love a combo of spinach and mushrooms)

HERE’S WHAT YOU DO:

1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees and liberally spray a 12-cup muffin tin with nonstick cooking spray.

2. Line each muffin cup with a slice of ham, shaping it as if it were a muffin cup.

3. Crack an egg into each ham cup and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Tip: If you’re having your kids help, crack eggs in a bowl first before pouring them into your ham cup if you need to inspect for shells.

4. Optional: Add your toppings. We like to sprinkle black beans and sauteed spinach

and mushrooms over each egg, about 1 cup total sprinkled evenly over 12 eggs.

5. Bake until eggs are cooked to your liking, about 15-20 minutes. I prefer my eggs runnier and take them out closer to 15 minutes.

6. Enjoy immediately or store in the fridge to enjoy later in the week. Reheat cold eggs in the microwave or enjoy cold.

January 2024 - NortheastOhioParent.com

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Hawken School

OPEN H OUSES Cleveland Montessori School January 17 12510 Mayfield Road, Cleveland clevelandmontessori.org, 216-421-0700

Hathaway Brown School January 10: Early Childhood January 10: Upper School January 11: K-8 19600 N. Park Blvd., Shaker Hts. hb.edu, 216-932-4214

hawken.edu, 440-423-4446 Lower & Middle Schools April 7 5000 Clubside Road, Lyndhurst Upper School April 14 12465 County Line Road, Gates Mills Mastery School April 21 11025 Magnolia Dr., Cleveland Birchwood School of Hawken birchwoodschool.org, 216-251-2321 January 14 & April 28 4400 W. 140th St., Cleveland

Hershey Montessori hershey-montessori.org Lower School January 27, February 7, 24, March 13, 23, April 17, 20 10229 Prouty Road, Concord Twp. 440-357-0918 Upper School January 22, 26, February 5, 9, March 4, 8, April 12, 15 11530 Madison Road, Huntsburg Twp. 440-636-6290

Julie Billiart Schools

juliebilliartschool.org Akron February 14, April 22 380 Mineola Ave., 330-333-5280 Brecksville January 11, February 8, March 25, April 19 8611 Wiese Road Westlake January 23, March 23 3600 Crocker Road, 440-471-4150

Lakewood Catholic Academy January 28 14808 Lake Ave., Lakewood lcasaints.com, 216-521-0559

Laurel School

Lyman Campus January 6 & April 13 1 Lyman Circle, Shaker Hts. laurelschool.org, 216-464-1441

Lawrence School lawrenceschool.org, 440-526-0717 Lower School January 12, February 26, April 15 1551 E. Wallings Road, Broadview Hts. Upper School January 11, February 29, April 18 10036 Olde Eight Road, Sagamore Hills

The Music Settlement's Center For Early Childhood themusicsettlement.org University Circle Campus January 21 11125 Magnolia Dr., Cleveland 216-421-5806 Ohio City Campus January 21 2610 Detroit Ave., Cleveland 216-377-1410

Old Trail School April 11 2315 Ira Road, Bath oldtrail.org, 330-666-1118

Our Lady Of The Elms

January 28 1375 W. Exchange St., Akron theelms.org, 330-836-9384

Our Lady Of The Lake School January 31 East 200th St., Euclid olleuclidSchool.org, 216-481-6824

Parma Heights Christian Academy

Grades K-7th February 3 8971 West Ridgewood Dr., Parma Heights phcawarriors.com, 440-845-8668

Ruffing Montessori School January 20 3380 Fairmount Blvd., Cleveland Heights ruffingmontessori.net, 216-321-7571

Saint Columbkille School

February 4 6740 Broadview Road, Parma stcolumbkilleschool.org, 216-524-4816

8 | Family Living at Its Best

Saint Joseph Academy

St. Hilary School

March 21 3470 Rocky River Dr., Cleveland sja1890.org, 216-251-6788

January 28 645 Moorfield Road, Fairlawn st-hilaryschool.org, 330-867-8720

Seton Catholic School

St. Thomas More School

January 28 (Early Childhood) 4180 North Amber Dr., Brooklyn stmschool.com, 216-749-1660

January 28 6923 Stow Road, Hudson setoncatholicschool.org, 330-342-4200

St. Paul Westlake

Spring Garden Waldorf School

February 14 1791 S. Jacoby Road, Copley sgws.org, 330-666-0574

St. Francis Of Assisi School

January 28 6850 Mayfield Road, Gates Mills sfaschoolgm.org, 440-442-7450

St. Sebastian Parish School

January 28 (Preschool-8th grade) 500 Mull Avenue, West Akron stsebastian.org/school, 330-836-9107

January 21 27981 Detroit Ave., Westlake stpaulwestlake.school, 440-835-3051

Villa AngelaSt. Joseph High School March 6 18491 Lakeshore Blvd., Cleveland vasj.com, 216-481-8414

Westside Christian Academy February 6 23096 Center Ridge Road, Westlake westsideacademy.org, 440-331-1300

Submit your open house to openhouse@northeastohioparent.com • Sponsored Content •

Stop the Hate Scholarship Contest deadlines approaching.

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Through the generosity of a donor, $100,000 is awarded in support of standing up and speaking out against hate.

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How can a student enter the Stop the Hate contest?

Students are invited to pen a personal essay in 500 words or less about bias they have witnessed or experienced and share what they have done or will do in response. Essays can be submitted by an individual independent of their school’s involvement.

How can a teacher bring a school group for a Stop the Hate tour?

School groups are invited at a discounted rate of only $3 per student. CMSD schools are admitted at no cost, with pre-registration.

For details, and more information, please email tours@mmjh.org.

New anti-bias grants for educators and schools New this year is the opportunity to apply for one of three Stop the Hate Anti-Bias Community Grants of $5,000 each for schools in the participating 12 counties. For more information on applications, please contact ckrieger@mmjh.org.

Stop the Hate Essay Contest deadlines Essays for grades 6–10 are due Thursday, February 8, 2024.

Essays for grades 11–12 are due Thursday, February 15, 2024.

For complete details, visit Learn.MaltzMuseum.org.

January 2024 - NortheastOhioParent.com

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Family Matters

Striking the right chord in the New Year

Music can strengthen

M

any people ring in a new year with a fresh set of resolutions such as to pursue a long-held interest in music. They may suddenly have the gumption to learn the guitar or a predilection for the piano in 2024.

With a little fine-tuning, a musical resolution could become a family affair.

Just as mutual interests in hobbies and sports can strengthen parent-child relations, a love of music is another potential bonding experience at just about any age.

Beth Hankins, the orchestra director at Lakewood High School, suggests that a familial love of music may begin even before a child is born.

10 | Family Living at Its Best

family harmony

By Kerry Prater “Mothers, when they sing to their child, they usually hear music while they’re in the womb and that automatically kind of creates a connection,” Hankins says.

She cites the Suzuki method of learning music as a potential approach to building a musical bond between parent and child.

Hankins explains under this method, the parent learns the same stringed instrument as their child at the same time. Advocates of this method compare a child’s ability to learn music to how they instinctively learn the language of their parents through listening and mimicking.

Children can begin the method with their parents as early as age 3.

Dr. Jen Yensel, clinical director with The Cole Center in Brecksville and Cuyahoga Falls, adds that parent-child bonding over music can begin at an early age by making sounds together with spoons, pots, and pans. That bond may carry through adolescence by talking about musicians or attending concerts together.

Music also provides a platform to build a child’s self-esteem and to foster empathy between a parent and child.

Yensel explains a parent asking their child to describe what they have learned in their music lessons allows the child to become the “expert” in a subject. The child then becomes the

teacher to their parent, which is a role reversal opportunity that they might enjoy while boosting their confidence.

If a parent is learning an instrument, it might provide them with a degree of insight as to what their child experiences in rehearsing for a school recital or concert.

Early exposure to music offers other benefits to children beyond them developing a good ear for tunes.

Julie Chabola, owner of Kindermusik at Western Reserve, says encouraging a child’s musical interest in their formative years helps them develop vital cognitive, motor, speech and socialization skills.

While some families may want to jump right into their musical pursuits, Chabola advises parents to weigh the three “Cs” of cost, commitment and cusp beforehand. Can families afford the cost? Do their schedules permit the necessary commitment? What is the appropriate age-level class for their child if they’re on the transitional cusp of ages?

Families who pursue their love of music together may discover a learning

and leisure activity that can bind generations of any age.

Devon Caskey, the music lessons coordinator at Woodsy’s Music in Kent, and Vera Holczer-Waroquet, the founder and director of the Aurora School of Music, both agree about the power of parental involvement.

Caskey is teaching viola lessons to a father while his daughter is taking violin lessons with another instructor at Woodsy’s Music.

“I know that it has helped both with practicing,” he says. “Because they’re both beginners, they can kind of lean on each other.” The father-daughter duo is enjoying their joint learning experience so much that they share the goal of performing holiday duets someday.

The Aurora School of Music is the alma mater of another unique musical duo. Holczer-Waroquet says that a 95-year-old mother and her 65-yearold daughter recently took dual piano lessons at the school. “That was the coolest thing ever."

Musical pursuits tend to lead to more parental involvement in a child’s dayto-day life than if the child was not par-

ticipating in an extracurricular activity, Caskey says. Music opens opportunities for a parent to engage their child in discussions regarding their lessons, recitals and experiences overall.

While parental involvement can take many forms, from instrument rental to chauffeuring to lessons, Caskey and Holczer-Waroquet urge parents to accommodate at-home practice sessions.

Caskey cautions that weekly music lessons span a mere half hour.

“While that half-hour lesson is important for that one-on-one check-in with the instructor, most of the magic happens at home,” she adds.

Holczer-Waroquet suggests parents be their child’s biggest cheerleader and allow them to experiment musically.

Practicing together should be fun and not a controlled, disciplined time under the parent, she says.

“Families that have parents involved in music and children involved in music and playing together – if that happens at home - that’s magical. When you start doing ensembles as a family, that’s really, truly magical,” Holczer-Waroquet says.

January 2024 - NortheastOhioParent.com

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Preschooler's LIFE

Put Color in Your Preschooler's Life Using crayons or colored pencils to draw on pages is meaningful for early childhood education.

T

he old adage says that coloring outside the lines symbolizes creativity and free thinking.

Child development research says that the exercise and motion — the how — behind a child’s coloring is far more important than where they’re doing the coloring.

Those tiny little movements your child makes as they color are vital to their development of fine motor skills — defined by the Cleveland Clinic as "small, precise movements we make with our hands, fingers, feet and toes. They involve the complex coordination of your muscles, joints and nerves.”

In other words, we may take for granted our children’s ability to grasp a crayon, colored pencil or marker and create a piece of art. That process actually involves precision as well as “awareness and planning, coordination, (and) muscle strength,” according to the Cleveland Clinic.

The activity also supports spatial skills and reasoning, says Amy Jackson, chief early learning strategy officer at Primrose Schools, which has eight Cleveland-area locations.

Jackson explains that coloring can be a tool through which children

12 | Family Living at Its Best

By Joel Hammond understand what’s happening around them.

Starting at a new school? A new classroom? A new daycare? Kids can color a sheet dedicated to that event, either with a classroom, or new friends, or other applicable situations.

“Children can also learn from what they are coloring, and parents can use coloring to help explain concepts,” she says. “If preparing for a big trip, consider a coloring page of an airplane and discuss how it flies through the sky.”

Not only is coloring key for fine motor skills and reasoning skills, but according to Jacob Olesen, founder of Color Meaning — whose work centers around understanding how colors affect human emotion and behavior ­— color can “influence mood and behavior, stimulate the brain and body, and even affect children’s health.”

“When kids are exposed to their favorite color, it’s more likely to boost their mood and make it easier for them to learn,” he writes on his website.

Knowing the benefits of coloring, for fine motor skill development and even a child’s mood and behavior, but how do you best go about teaching

them to color?

Colleen Beck, an occupational therapist for 20 years and founder of theottoolbox.com writes, “Don’t push them too hard. The act can be difficult at first, for several reasons: It can hurt a child’s hands. It can make children’s hands tired.”

Jackson says the next step is to ensure kids are having fun while coloring — and for grownups in kids’ lives to practice with them, supporting them on their journey.

“Coloring pages of favorite characters or interests are a great place to start; just be sure the images have thick outlines and are not overly complex or large so that children can feel successful early,” Jackson says.

“Above all, the best thing parents can do to help their child learn to color is to practice with them. Children love when their parents show interest and engage in activities with them. Participating in the activity gives parents the opportunity to demonstrate an interest in coloring and experience the fun of creating something beautiful together.”

ST. SEBASTIAN PARISH SCHOOL INSPIRING THE CRITICAL THINKERS OF TOMORROW

2023 NATIONAL BLUE RIBBON SCHOOL

Join us for this year’s Catholic Schools Week

OPEN HOUSE

Sunday, January 28, 2024 • 10 a.m. - Noon • Preschool – 8th Grade Registrations will be accepted online beginning January 28th

• A Faith-Based whole child approach

• State-of-the-art Science Lab and Technology

• Governor’s Thomas Edison Award Winner for

• STREAM (Science, Technology, Religion,

STEM Education, 5th Straight Year • A State of Ohio designated STEM school • High Achievement, High Growth in Math,

and laptops

• Our School Garden, an outdoor classroom for

our students

• SMARTboards in every classroom, including

5 0 0 M U L L AV E .

Engineering, Art and Math) lessons in every grade • Innovation Lab • Auxiliary tutoring and classroom aides

Science and Language Usage • Technology consisting of iPads, Chromebooks

kindergarten

Learning Lab

• Before and After Care Program, Daily Hot

Lunch Program

A K RO N , O H I O 4 4 3 2 0

• Extracurricular programs such as Power of

the Pen, Robotics and Drone Club, Genius Project, Lego Club, MathCounts, Gravity Racing Challenge, Student Council, Student Ambassadors, School Band, CYO Sports, Youth Ministry, Community Service Projects and many more. * Scholarships and Financial Aid including the EdChoice Scholarship are available for all students

330.836.9107

STSEBASTIAN.ORG

January 2024 - NortheastOhioParent.com

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PRESCHOOL GUIDE Listings GILMOUR ACADEMY CREATIVE PLAYROOMS CLEVELAND MONTESSORI SCHOOL

Cleveland Montessori has been serving the Little Italy and Greater Cleveland community for almost 30 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 2024-25. 216-421-0700, info@clevelandmontessori.org, clevelandmontessori.org

14 | Family Living at Its Best

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

Gilmour’s Montessori Preschool Program serves toddlers (18 months to age 3) three or five days/week; half-or full-day and prekindergarten (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 K-12, where they continue to develop as curious learners. gilmour.org

- Continued on page 16 -

Kindergarten Readiness Starts Here!

With Creative Playrooms Montessori and Child Care Centers’ 50+ years of experience across six convenient locations, your child will learn the skills needed to develop into a confident, strong, social little person!

• Early learning programs for children ages six weeks to 12 years • Traditional and Montessori options • Free Preschool and PreK • Junior Kindergarten

RESERVE YOUR SPOT TODAY!

Visit: Creativeplayrooms.com Call: 440-349-9111 January 2024 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 15

PRESCHOOL GUIDE HAWKEN SCHOOL

LOOKING FOR A SCHOOL? SUMMER CAMP? FUN THINGS TO DO WITH YOUR KIDS? Visit NortheastOhioParent.com for Listings and Monthly Calendar Events

16 | Family Living at Its Best

Hawken’s Early Childhood program allows your child to experience the joys of childhood while developing foundational knowledge, creative and critical thinking skills, citizenship, and the habits of mind to support lifelong learning. Highlights include introduction to Spanish and Chinese in kindergarten and afternoon enrichment classes in science, movement, visual and dramatic arts, language and culture, and music. Applications are now being accepted for 2024-25. Applicants must be 18 months by September 30. For more information, visit hawken.edu.

- Continued on page 18 -

January 2024 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 17

MONTESSORI SCHOOL OF

UNIVERSITY HEIGHTS

PRESCHOOL GUIDE

FOUNDED 1968

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. lensc.org/preschool-programs

THREE YEAR PROGRAM BEGINNING AT AGE THREE

MONTESSORI SCHOOL OF UNIVERSITY HEIGHTS

Montessori School of University Heights, established in 1968, is a pre-primary school dedicated to helping each child become the unique person his/her creator intended in a Christian atmosphere of peace, love and respect. Children enter at age 3 and remain through their kindergarten year.

The Montessori approach involves: providing comprehensive, individualized opportunities for growth; engaging children in a caring, supportive community; and developing concentration, independence, self-discipline, compassion, confidence, and joy in learning. 216-381-8388, ms-uh.org

- Continued on page 20 -

CALL FOR A

PERSONAL TOUR

216-381-8388 23599 CEDAR ROAD BEACHWOOD, OH

WWW.MS-UH.ORG “The most important period of life is not the age of university studies, but the first one, the period of birth to age six. For that is the time when man’s intelligence itself, his greatest implement, is being formed.”

-Dr. Maria Montessori

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January 2024 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 19

PRESCHOOL GUIDE

PIONEER CHRISTIAN PRESCHOOL

Pioneer Christian Preschool provides a car ing, loving environment which encourages children to learn and grow. They have been serving children from ages 2-5 for over 40 years. Their students enjoy occupational play in the large indoor gym, outdoor classroom, and playground. They provide music and movement, Spanish, interactive school assemblies, field trips, and an annual Christmas pageant. Your child will be well prepared for kindergarten. Preschool hours are 9-11:30 a.m. and extended day 11 a.m.-2 p.m. pioneerpreschool.org

RUFFING MONTESSORI SCHOOL

Ruffing Montessori School in Cleveland Heights is a vibrant school community for children ages 18 months to eighth grade.

Join them for an admissions event or personal tour to explore Ruffing’s beautiful classrooms and spacious outdoor play spaces, meet their Montessori-trained teachers, and learn about Ruffing’s rigorous curriculum that prepares students to lead and excel academically. Schedule a tour today by calling Julie or Rosie at 216321-7571 or visit ruffingmontessori.net

SETON CATHOLIC SCHOOL

Seton Catholic School (pre-kindergarten through eighth grade) is a U.S. Department of Education National Blue Ribbon School. A lifetime love of learning starts here. Young hearts and minds develop into thoughtful, educated students — ready to thrive and grow. Immersed in the humanities, arts and sciences, foreign languages, mathematics, and environmental education — students are nurtured in a setting of constructive and personalized learning. Innovation and tradition unite with guided responsible use of technology, successfully integrated with time-honored instruction. setoncatholicschool.org

setoncatholicschool.org

SPRING GARDEN WALDORF SCHOOL

Spring Garden Waldorf School has been educating children for over 40 years and is one of two accredited Waldorf schools in Ohio. Their play-based preschool serves children ages 3-6 and focuses on developing cognitive, social, and creative capacities. Their youngest students are surrounded by friends and warmth in beautiful spaces that feel like home. Children are outdoors as often indoors and go outside in all weather. Email admissions@ sgws.org for more information.

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ST. BARNABAS SCHOOL

St. Barnabas Catholic School is a National Blue Ribbon School of excellence ranging from preschool through eighth grade.

Their preschool and full-day pre-kindergarten provides many options for ages 3, 4 and 5. They offer before and after care in their early learning center as well as summer childcare for enrolled students. The school is dedicated to the spiritual, academic, physical and emotional development of students.

Apply today for the 2024-2025 school year! 330-467-7921, sbcatholicschool.com

ST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI SCHOOL

St. Francis of Assisi School, a 3 year old preschool - eighth grade school, is centered on their faith. Students learn about God’s world and what we can do to make it an even better place. While academics are their core, they see their mission as serving the individual students and their God-given gifts and talents. As a result, their students help drive their programs such as the broadcast studio, aquaponics area and service projects. sfaschoolgm.org

ST. PAUL WESTLAKE

St. Paul has served the Westlake community for 165 years. The preschool teachers are highly educated specialists who provide a rich academic environment and share the love of Jesus with students every day. They offer a preschool 3-year-old program for both full and half days and a pre-kindergarten program for 4-year-olds full day. Extended care services are available. Contact admissions@stpaulwestlake.org or visit at stpaulwestlake.school

ST. THOMAS MORE

St. Thomas More is sensitive to each child’s social, emotional, intellectual, and physical needs. Each child’s unique development growth is nurtured through age-appropriate activities that emphasize a hands-on learning process. Through exploration, the child discovers God in the world around him or her. Their program is designed to develop in children a sense of independence and responsibility. They encourage not just learning, but also the love of learning. St. Thomas More offers part-time, full-time, and extended-day programs for ages 3 to 5. 216-749-1660, sschultz@stmschool.com

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PRESCHOOL GUIDE

THE ST. SEBASTIAN PARISH CENTER FOR EARLY LEARNING

Established in 2001, the St. Sebastian Parish Center for Early Learning, a Catholic preschool in West Akron, provides a safe, nurturing and stimulating environment for the enhancement of each child’s social, emotional, cognitive, spiritual and physical potential. Offering full day and half day programs ages 3 to 5. All classes taught by degreed teachers. 330-8369107, stsebastian.org/school

WESTSIDE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

We offer content for kids, too!

View KidStream videos online at NortheastOhioParent.com 22 | Family Living at Its Best

Westside Christian Academy's Pre-K engages children in play-based learning activities to prepare them for kindergarten and beyond. Introducing students to the subjects of literacy, math, and science through hands-on activities, teachers cultivate a joyful atmosphere where children are taught according to Biblical principles. Their program instills a love for school, a love learning, and a love for God. The program accepts students ages 4 through young 5’s. Morning or afternoon classes available. To schedule a tour go to westsideacademy.org

ELEMENTARY

Spelling Out Ways

to Help Kids with Writing

By Aisha Taylor

W

hile spelling and grammar seem to be made easy due to technological advancements, people may wonder if technology is a replacement for knowing spelling and grammar. Amy Rosenbluth, executive director of Lake Erie Ink, disagrees.

“No, we're in the world of AI, but if you don’t know what is correct, then you don't even know if what's corrected is correct,” she says. “Technology can help in the revision process. But, students still need to understand what makes a complete sentence.”

Jan Sixt, a tutor, recommends that parents help their children to learn spelling and grammar by focusing on phonics. Phonics is a method of cor-

relating sounds with letters or groups of letters.

“Children who struggle with spelling tend to have missed some piece of the basics,” she says. “Our brain works so fast — we talk faster than we can write.

With phonics, you're really slowing yourself down so you hear all of those sounds. It's an analytical approach to writing that breaks the word down piece by piece.”

Once the children learn the sounds, they are more equipped to spell unfamiliar words because they have already learned how to analyze the word sounds.

Many students tend to write the way that they think or talk. One of the best ways to correct grammar is by reading

the student’s work out loud.

“Reading the work first or asking your child to read it to you and then going in and reading it and seeing if there's a disconnect,” Rosenbluth says.

“Sometimes kids know what they're trying to say, so when parents read the child’s work they can notice if there is a missing word or if the punctuation is correct.”

There are many creative ways to help your child with spelling. If a child is struggling, you don't want them to end up just feeling bad by repeatedly reviewing the same thing. This can lead to frustration that disrupts the learning process. Therefore, finding a creative way to learn spelling helps to reinforce - Continued on page 24 -

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what the child learned in school while making it fun.

Rosenbluth surveyed some of the teachers at Lake Erie Ink and here are some of the popular suggestions.

• A family poetry night. The child has

to use four of the words from the spelling list.

• A funny comic panel. Create a little comic strip where you have to include words from the list.

• Write a letter. The letter doesn't have to be a letter to grandma. It could be to anyone including someone imaginary like their favorite character.

• Write note cards.

• Have a child help you write the menu for the week using the spelling words.

• Create a shopping list. Use the spelling words to make a funny shopping list.

• Review the spelling words in a game show format.

• Write a blank story with words left out.

Then the kids have to fill in the right word. This helps with spelling, recognizing

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the parts of speech, and application of the actual use of the word.

• Playing games like Bananagrams.

You can even help your child turn their doodling, which is a picture story, into a written story. Rosenbluth suggests that parents ask their children, “Tell me about this picture story in one to six words. The story has to include a verb and a noun. This allows the student to include parts of speech and introduce storytelling and sequencing.”

Then ask further questions about the story to encourage more discussion.

If your child is struggling with

writing, ask your child to tell the story while you write it down or type it.

“Type the story really big so the kid can see the letters on the screen,” Rosenbluth says. “It's not a cheat. The child is still giving you the information.

But, you're allowing them to work without being stressed out. This helps them to begin to recognize how words and ideas translate into writing.”

Some parents may be wondering if they can support their child in learning spelling, writing, and grammar without an education degree.

“You are your children’s first teacher and you are capable of helping them learn their spelling, writing, and grammar,” Sixt says. “You’re always teaching something, even if it's just to put their socks in the hamper. You can do this too.”

“The more your child sees how words and language are used, the more they will become familiar with it and the context of the words,” Rosenbluth adds.

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Back to Class: SPECIAL NEEDS

T

Toys Like Us

By Angela Gartner

oys and dolls provide opportunities for children, including those with special needs to learn through play, but also provide support for emotional and social skills.

According to the Pacer Center’s “Toys Universal Tools for Learning, Communication and Inclusion for Children with Disabilities,” "toys are not only a wonderful educational tool, but they can provide a unique opportunity for communication, self expression, and, especially, inclusion."

If you are looking for a doll, toy or figure, whether it’s for sensory needs or general play, below are toys with inclusive aspects for kids with special needs.

JoJo the Weighted Doll

This weighted baby doll from Fun and Function provides a cuddly and calm friend for children 18 months and older, weighing 15 plus pounds. JoJo’s soft, 1.5-pound body features a bright color and simple design that appeals to everyone. Other weighted toy options are available including a teddy bear, lion and more. funandfunction.com

American Girl Doll

In 2020, the American Girl's "Girl of the Year" doll was Joss Kendrick, who was born with the disability of congenital hearing loss. The popular doll company provides options for their dolls such as a wheelchair, a service dog vest, and arm crutches. There is also an option to order a doll with a hearing aid. Follow age ranges for purchases. Visit americangirl.com Barbie Fashionist. Photo courtesy of mattel.com

Barbie

Barbie Fashionistas celebrate diversity with fashion dolls in a variety of body types. In 2023, Barbie collaborated with the National Down Syndrome Society to ensure the doll accurately represents a person with Down syndrome, according to Mattel's news release. For ages 3 and older, families can get Fashionistas Barbie and Ken dolls with vitiligo, dolls that use a wheelchair or a prosthetic limb, a doll with hearing aids and a doll without hair. shop.mattel.com

Little People

Fisher-Price sells Josh and Mia and Barbie party sets. Both sets provide a figure using a wheelchair. The toys are for toddlers and preschool kids ages 18 months to 5 years. Check retail stores and Amazon to purchase.

Little People Barbie Party Set. Photo courtesy of mattel.com

Chloe the Comfort Cat. Photo courtesy of fatbraintoys.com

JoJo the weighted doll Photo Courtesy of funandfunction.com

Chloe the Comfort Cat

The cat weighs 2.5-pounds, perfect for providing a calming sense of security to children with sensory input needs. Its soft, floppy body can lay across your lap or shoulders for perfect snuggles. For ages 3 and older. fatbraintoys.com

SPIKE Silicone Fidget Play Gripper Toppers

Bonus and Fij-It Toy! These silicone fidgets offers pencil Grippers, Toppers and Fij-

it discs that help kids of all ages stay focused at school, home and work. These 100% silicone fidget toys are quiet, mess-free and can be sanitized for unlimited play. spiketoys.com —Source National Parenting Product Awards

26 | Family Living at Its Best

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| 27

Back to class

AI at School: How schools use AI to save time and personalize education

by Rachel Abbey McCafferty

G

enerative AI tools could be used by students to cheat or cut corners, sure. But the potential implications of the technology on education go much further.

Rennie Greenfield, a librarian and instructional technologist at Hawken School, compared the concerns about artificial intelligence in education to the panic caused by the introduction of internet search engines in the ’90s – and, much earlier, by the publication of the first encyclopedias.

“I think we’re at another one of those inflection points,” he says. “This is just another new technology that is going to completely disrupt things, just like the internet did. And it’s going to disrupt things in a huge, huge way. We have to learn to teach them to use it as a tool, so that it does not drive a wedge between us and our students.”

The state of Ohio doesn’t have a set policy for AI use in schools. An email from a spokesperson noted that the Department of Education and Workforce is considering putting together guidance, but policies will be left to local districts.

In the Chagrin Falls Schools, instructional technology coach Molly Klodor has been running short training sessions on different AI tools for teachers and going into classrooms to help. One of the main benefits to AI is that it can serve as a “guide on the side,” Klodor says, offering tutoring-type services so students can check their work and understanding. AI allows students to find explanations for different concepts at their grade level, which can be tougher to do when searching for help on an internet search engine.

Corey Hoynacke, director of curriculum at the Summit Educational Service

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Center, which works to support local school districts through services like professional development, says the goal is to show students when to use AI and how to use it ethically. Students shouldn’t just be asking chatbots to write their essays for them. Hoynacke questions the value of assignments that can be completed by AI these days. “We are at this really amazing point in education where kids don’t need to know the answers anymore; they need to know how to evaluate them,” he says.

One way teachers have been doing this is having students show their work and the process they used, Hoynacke says.

Eric Curts, technology integration specialist at the Stark Portage Area Computer Consortium, says he’s encouraging teachers to have their students cite any use of AI in their work, whether that’s a formal MLA citation or just a link to the chat they had with a tool. The transparency is important.

AI use isn’t something to hide, he says, it just needs to be within a class’s guidelines of appropriate use.

It’s also important for students to understand what AI can’t do. It “hallucinates” all the time, Klodor adds, so students need to double-check any answers they receive.

It’s biased, based on whatever inputs it receives, so students need to read answers critically. And students shouldn’t skip learning “the basics.”

“It’s about using AI as a tool to assist you and not as a tool to cut a corner,” she says.

For teachers, AI can help with time-consuming tasks like writing emails or even creating the wrong answers for a multiple choice quiz. Freeing up their time for more productive uses.

And they can use it to help them better differentiate education for each student.

Hoynacke shared an example. A teacher had been looking for a version of an assessment for a student who had recently come to the U.S. and primarily spoke Spanish. Hoynacke helped the teacher put some of the assessment questions into an AI chatbot to be translated. Those questions were then checked by a teacher who could read Spanish and fed back into the chatbot to adjust the reading level. The process took minutes, instead of hours.

“This, I think, will essentially put a personalized tutor in the hands of every kid,” Hoynacke says.

TIPS FOR PARENTS: For parents looking to help their children navigate the new world of AI, some research is required.

• Klodor suggests if parents are

helping with homework, it could be useful to walk through using an AI chat tool for support. Talk about what you’re asking the chatbot and why you’re asking it the way you are.

After it gives an answer, talk about whether that answer makes sense to the student and why or why not.

• Finding reputable and ethical AI tools is also important. Greenfield suggests looking into the technology companies behind the tools and learning about their mission statements, “guardrails” for output and policies on things like data use.

• It’s also important to just have the “hard” conversations about how the internet —and the tools that use it — is flawed and biased, Klodor says.

And talk to children about how to sift through information and find the right answers.

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stem Showcase

Great Lakes Science Center

Great Lakes Science Center is home to the NASA Glenn Visitor Center and makes science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) come alive for more than 300,000 visitors a year through hundreds of hands-on exhibits, temporary exhibitions, the Cleveland Clinic DOME Theater, historic Steamship William G. Mather, daily science demonstrations, seasonal camps, and more. The Science Center is Northeast Ohio’s STEM HQ! Visit greatscience. com to plan your visit today.

Hawken School — STEMM

Hawken’s STEMM program provides guided research in science, technology, engineering, math, and medicine. Scientific Research I and II develop scientific reading comprehension, critical thinking, and research skills; Scientific Research III develops skills in scientific writing and oral presentation in preparation for Hawken’s annual STEMM Research Symposium and the Northeast Ohio Science and Engineering Fair (NEOSEF), where students have garnered many accolades.

Numerous times over the last several years, at least one Hawken student has received a Grand Prize at the NEOSEF, earning an all-expense paid trip to the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair. For more information, visit hawken.edu.

St. Barnabas Catholic School

S

T

E

A M

St. Barnabas offers a technology-rich environment where students are empowered by project-based learning across multiple disciplines in fields such as robotics and computer science.

Lake Ridge Academy

Lake Ridge Academy’s K-12 STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts/ design,mathematics) curriculum encourages innovative thinking and problem solving and is augmented by extensive hands-on learning opportunities delivered inside one of the most advanced science and engineering facilities in the area. Its graduates are often sought by leading engineering and research universities.

37501 Center Ridge Road, North Ridgeville, 440-327-11755. lakeridgeacademy.org

St. Barnabas Catholic School

St. Barnabas Catholic School is a National Blue Ribbon School Preschool - Pre-K and Grades K-8 9200 Olde 8 Road | Northfield, OH 44067 www.sbcatholicschool.com | 330.467.7921

30 | Family Living at Its Best

St. Barnabas Catholic School is a National Blue Ribbon School of excellence ranging from preschool through eighth grade. The STEAM program is passionate about preparing students for high school by exposing them to multiple engineering and technology fields. Students are immersed in a technology-rich environment where they learn basic robotics, 3D design, and computer science.

The program combines the fundamental teaching of science, technology, engineering, and math with a hands-on learning approach.

Open Enrollment begins Jan. 28 for the 2024-2025 school year. sbcatholicschool.com

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Culture Town

By Shana O’Malley-Smith

Northeast Ohio is hub of family-friendly live performances

T

aking in a live show isn’t something that only adults can enjoy. The lights, the sounds and the fellowship with other audience members can be an exciting experience for all ages. There are many productions that are made just for kids or are family-friendly.

And, you can experience many types of live performances right in your own backyard— no need to venture to Broadway. Northeast Ohio boasts an array of performing arts venues, offering everything from community productions to hit Broadway titles to music concerts and other performances.

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If your child is interested in going to a show, here are a few helpful tips to make the most of their experience.

Pick an age-appropriate show. Look for shows that have familiar characters or have a storyline that is appropriate for a child.

Look for shows that have a shorter duration and/or are interactive such as encouraging children to sing along or dance in their seats to keep their attention.

Prepare for the show ahead of time by talking about it, listening to songs that may be part of the production, or even watching videos so children know what to expect.

Check the venue’s website for parking information, find out when doors open, food and drink options and other accommodations. Some family-friendly productions might offer showtimes with special accessibility or are sensory -friendly.

Practice theater etiquette at home.

Watch a movie together or stream a theatrical performance or concert. Dim the lights, sit quietly and show your child to clap when appropriate.

Here’s a look at some of the family-friendly live performances and programs scheduled in 2024.

January 2024 Jan. 10-14

Disney on Ice: Magic in the Stars.

Featuring the most Disney characters in one show including the onice debuts of Frozen 2 and Raya and the Last Dragon. The all-star cast includes 56 of your favorite Disney stars, including Mirabel, Woody and Buzz, Tiana, Moana, and more.

Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse. rocketmortgagefieldhouse.com

Now through Jan. 14

3D Movie: Titanosaur. Discover the majesty and magnificence of the largest animal ever to walk the Earth. Titanosaur takes you on a journey to the Southern Hemisphere during the Late Cretaceous Period to explore the life history and environment of these longnecked sauropods—from egg to towering titan. Murch Auditorium at the Cleveland Museum of Natural History. cmnh.org

Eclipse Fever. This show is the perfect way to kick off the excitement for the total solar eclipse set to occur on April 8, 2024. This event only occurs in a given location about once every 375 years—and on April 8, the city of Cleveland will lie within the path of totality, experiencing nearly four minutes of darkness.

Nathan and Fannye Shafran Planetarium at the Cleveland Museum of Natural History. cmnh.org

Jan. 11, 12, 14 & 15

Barbie. See one of the year’s top award nominated films on Canton’s largest screen. Barbie suffers a crisis that leads her to question her world and her existence. Canton Palace Theater. cantonpalacetheatre.org - Continued on page 34 -

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Jan. 14

Weathervane Musical Theatre Concert Showcase. This program consists of talented students who gain competitive musical theatre training to better prepare them for college auditions and the professional theatre world. Weathervane Playhouse. weathervaneplayhouse.com

Jan. 20-21

“The Frozen Realm.” This story follows a young girl named Bianca as she journeys through a peculiar forest with an evil witch. She sees many fascinating things while in the forest before a warm-hearted fairy saves her and takes her to a magical castle.

Canton Palace Theatre. cantonpalacetheatre.org

Jan. 27-28

Shen Yun. A brilliant artistic revival and celebration of China’s rich cultural heritage. Each performance consists of about 20 pieces, quickly moving from one legend, region, or dynasty to the next. *Children age 3 and younger are not permitted. The State Theatre at Playhouse Square. shenyun.com

Jan. 27-28

The Rainbow Fish. The Rainbow Fish will enchant even the youngest child with his silver scales and heart of gold in this award-winning book about the beautiful fish who learned to share his most prized possession.

Mimi Ohio Theatre. playhousesquare.org

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February 2024 February 10-19

School of Fish. Children and families will join a school of fish and explore the ocean and get to know its creatures in this immersive, interactive play for our youngest audiences. Ideal for children ages 0-5.

Accessible performances are during the second weekend of each production. Talespinner Children’s Theatre, talespinnercle.org

The Arctic: Our last great wilderness. Experience a world that has evolved intact and untamed since the beginning of time. Journey with Florian Schulz on his five-year quest to film the elusive 200,000 strong Porcupine Caribou herd as it migrates to the Arctic Coastal Plain, one of the longest animal migrations on earth.

Cleveland Clinic DOME theater at the Great Lakes Science Center. greatscience.com

Feb. 16-18

Monster Jam. This fun-filled experience is the only place to get an insider's look at how these 12,000-pound trucks are built to stand up to the competition. Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse. monsterjam.com

The Peking Acrobats

Feb. 24

The Peking Acrobats. The Peking Acrobats have revitalized Chinese acrobatics, fusing ancient athletic discipline with modern special effects to create a kaleidoscopic marvel for all ages. These world-class gymnasts, jugglers, cyclists, and tumblers provide a gravity-defying spectacle with amazing displays of contortion, flexibility, and control. Akron Civic Theatre. akroncivic.com

Now through Feb 22

Sea Lions. Enjoy a classic coming-ofage tale filled with hope, humor, and wonder told through a vast ocean that connects us all. Between a jagged cliff face and a roaring ocean lives one of the rarest marine mammals on the planet, the Australian Sea Lion, and one very special pup named Otto. Cleveland Clinic DOME theater at the Great Lakes Science Center. great science.com

March 2024 March 1

The Price is Right Live. A hit interactive stage show that gives eligible individuals the chance to hear their names called and "Come On Down" to win. If you’re a fan of The Price Is Right on TV, you’ll no doubt love this exciting, live (non-televised), onstage version of the show. All ages are welcome to attend but only 18 and older are eligible to be a contestant.

KeyBank State Theatre. playhousesquare.org

March 9

Ballet Excel Ohio Presents: Snow White and Miss Spider’s Tea Party. See these stories spring to life on stage through costumes, sets and dance choreography. Akron Civic Theatre. akroncivic.com

March 19-24

Paw Patrol Live

March 9-10

Paw Patrol Live!: The Great Pirate Adventure. X marks the spot. It’s Pirate Day in Adventure Bay, and Mayor Goodway is getting ready for a big celebration, But first, Ryder and his team of pirate pups must rescue Cap’n Turbot from a mysterious cavern. KeyBank State Theatre. pawpatrollive.com Rosie Revere, Engineer & Friends.

A fun musical based on the books Rosie Revere, Engineer; Iggy Peck, Architect, and Ada Twist, Scientist by Andrea Beaty, spotlighting the STEM curriculum. Miami Ohio Theatre.

The 11 a.m. performance on March 9 will have a sign language interpreter.

Recommended for ages 4-9. playhousesquare.org

Annie. Little Orphan Annie has reminded generations of theatergoers that sunshine is always right around the corner, and now the best-loved musical of all time is set to return in a new production–just as you remember it and just when we need it most. Connor Palace, playhousesquare.org Annie - Photo courtesy of Playhouse Square

March 21-23

Who Ate the Sun? This play will entertain and educate audiences of all ages about the upcoming total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024. Stocker Arts Center, lorainccc.edu/stocker Rosie Revere, Engineer & Friends Photo courtesy of Playhouse Square

March 28

Blippi Live. Dance, sing, and learn with Blippi and special guest Meekah as they discover what makes different cities unique and special. Akron Civic Theatre. blippithewonderfulworldtour.com - Continued on page 36 -

March 9-17

Last Stop on Market Street. Six-yearold CJ is staying with his Nana, in a world considerably different from the one he’s used to. This is a hiphop, eclectic, heart-thumpin’, toetapppin’ joy ride. For ages 6 and up. *Accessible performances during the second weekend of each production. Talespinner Children’s Theatre. talespinnercle.org

Puppy Pals Live

March 17

Puppy Pals Live! Puppy Pals is a family fun action-packed show where adopted and rescued dogs perform spectacular stunts and breathtaking feats. Watch as we lead the puppies and audience through challenging and comical tricks as the pooches show everyone who is really boss!

Akron Civic Theatre. akroncivic.com

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Sesame Street Live

May 18-26

The Toothpaste Millionaire.

Sixth-grader Rufus Mayflower is aghast when he sees that the price of toothpaste has gone up.

He and his friends try to solve this real-life math problem. For kids 8 and older. Accessible performances during the second weekend of each production.

Talespinner Children’s Theatre. talespinnercle.org

April 2024 April 24

Sesame Street Live! Elmo, Abby Cadabby, Cookie Monster, and their friends from Sesame Street are coming to your neighborhood to say hello. Sing and dance with your favorite furry friends while enjoying fun surprises along the way. KeyBank State Theatre, sesamestreetlive.com

May 2024 May 3-11

Judy Moody and the Stink: The Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad Treasure Hunt. Pirates! Hidden clues! Secret codes and tricky puzzles! A hilarious adventure as the very moody Judy Moody and her little brother Stink embark on a crazy treasure hunt. Most enjoyed by families ages 6 and up. Magical Theatre Co. magicaltheatre.org

May 4-5

Beauty and the Beast. Ballet Theatre of Ohio presents the company premiere. Glistening costumes, breathtaking choreography, and sweeping sets have this new, full-length ballet promising to be a visual delight for all. Akron Civic Theatre. akroncivic.com

May 10-19

The Wizard of Oz. This charming musical features students ages 6-19, with Little Dorothy Gale of Kansas who dreams of what lies beyond the rainbow. Together they learn about friendship, bravery, and ultimately, that There’s No Place Like Home. Beck Center for the Arts. beckcenter.org

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March 15-24

Mean Girls (High School Version).

Follow Cady Heron as she navigates the transition from growing up on an African savanna, to the wild and vicious ways of suburban Illinois.

She takes on The Plastics, led by the vicious and beautiful Regina George.

Senney Theater. beckcenter.org Fine Arts Association

June 7-9

The Little Mermaid. This Disney favorite features a cast and musicians made up of our area’s most talented high school aged performers and supported by a professional creative team and crew. Based on one of Hans Christian Andersen's most beloved stories and the classic animated film, Akron Civic Theatre. akroncivic.com

June 11- July 7

Back to the Future Musical. When Marty McFly finds himself transported back to 1955 in a time machine built by the eccentric scientist Doc Brown. For children ages 6 and up.

KeyBank State Theatre. playhousesquare.org

Performances for Tweens, Teens and Young Adults Best for ages 12 and older

Jan 12-28

Legally Blonde the Musical. A fabulously fun award-winning musical based on the adored movie, Legally Blonde The Musical, follows the transformation of Elle Woods as she tackles stereotypes and scandal in pursuit of her dreams. Akron Civic Theatre. akroncivic.com

Feb. 2-4

Twelve Angry Jurors. What begins as an open-and-shut murder case evolves into a tense exploration of personal prejudices as jurors clash and tangle to reach what they perceive as justice.

Perhaps more relevant now than it ever has been. Magical Theatre Co. magicaltheatre.org

Feb 3 & May 4

Chili Con Comedy. This teen improv troupe delivers a different performance each time you see them.

Responding to prompts from the audience, this group of trained improvisers create scenes in front of your very eyes. Fine Arts Association. fineartsassociation.org

Feb 9-25

Cats. Based on T.S. Eliot’s whimsical collection of poems, Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s popular musical brings together a tribe of Jellicle Cats on a moonlit evening, who must make the “Jellicle choice” Fine Arts Association. fineartsassociation.org

Check out these venues around Northeast Ohio for additional shows and programs in 2024.

Mentor Rocks - mentorrocks.info Cain Park - cainpark.com Lock 3 Park Downtown Akron akronohio.gov Jacobs Pavilion - jacobspavilion.com Blossom Music Center clevelandamphitheater.com Cleveland Pops Orchestra clevelandpops.com Cleveland Orchestra clevelandorchestra.com Akron Symphony Orchestraakronsymphony.org Dobama Theater - dobama.org Maltz Museum - maltzmuseum.org Cleveland History Center - wrhs.org Local high school or city theater clubs

ONGOING ATTRACTIONS ONGOING ATTRACTIONS AKRON ART MUSEUM

CLEVELAND BOTANICAL GARDEN

GREAT LAKES SCIENCE CENTER

transform a museum gallery into an immersive, colorful, sensory experience. United by bold color and pattern, the installation promises to be a feast for the eyes. 1 S. High St., akronartmuseum.org

Experience the year-round exuberance you can find only in a Central American rainforest with towering trees, ever-blooming shrubs, and more. 11030 East Blvd., University Circle, cbgarden.org

your inner scientist as you explore electricity and magnetism; light and optics; motion and mechanics; sound and resonance; and more. 601 Erieside Ave., Cleveland, greatscience.com

THROUGH 5/12 LAND JAM. Two Ohio artists

AKRON FOSSILS & SCIENCE CENTER

ONGOING CREATION EDUCATION MUSEUM. Compares and

contrasts scientific models like Intelligent Design and Evolution on the origin of the Universe, and Catastrophism and Uniformitarianism models on the geologic record. 2080 S. Cleveland-Massillon Road, Copley, akronfossils.com

AKRON ZOO

ONGOING LEHNER FAMILY FOUNDATION WILD ASIA. Recreates the

Southeast Asia jungles and Himalayan forests. Lush tree canopies add to the ambiance while offering shade as guests roam throughout this exotic adventure. 505 Euclid Ave., Akron, akronzoo.org

ONGOING COSTA RICA GLASSHOUSE.

CLEVELAND METROPARKS ZOO

ONGOING SUSIE’S BEAR HOLLOW. The

state-of-the art tropical bear habitat is home to the zoo’s male Andean bear and male and female sloth bears. 3900 Wildlife Way, futureforwildlife.org

CLEVELAND MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY

THROUGH 3/17 3D MOVIE: FLIGHT OF THE BUTTERFLIES. Be captivated by the

ONGOING SCIENCE PHENOMENA. meet

GREATER CLEVELAND AQUARIUM

ONGOING SHARK GALLERY & SEA TUBE.

With 230,000 gallons of water, this impressive space features three species of sharks, stingrays, eels and many other species of fish. 2000 Sycamore St., Cleveland, greaterclevelandaquarium. com

LAKE ERIE NATURE & SCIENCE CENTER

ONGOING OUTDOOR ANIMAL EXHIBIT. Due

to disabilities that prevent their survival in the wild, these animals receive quality care from the center’s highly trained staff and serve as ambassadors for their species. Lake Erie Nature & Science Center, 28728 Wolf Road, Bay Village, lensc.org

MALTZ MUSEUM

THROUGH 4/28 THE GIRL IN THE DIARY: SEARCHING FOR RYWKA FROM THE LODZ GHETTO. In 1945, a

diary was found in the ashes of a destroyed crematorium in the liberated Auschwitz-Birkenau Camp. Rywka’s diary told stories of a young girl who lost her siblings and parents, but never lost hope or her faith.

2929 Richmond Road, Beachwood, maltzmuseum.org

true and compelling story of an intrepid scientist’s 40-year search to find the monarchs’ secret hideaway. 1 Wade Oval Drive, Cleveland, cmnh.org

CANTON MUSEUM OF ART THROUGH 3/3 WITHOUT A NET. Artist Susan

Else merges divergent images and conflicting human responses explored in the old-fashioned circus and slideshow. 1001 Market Ave. N., Canton, cantonart.org

CHILDREN’S MUSEUM CLEVELAND

ONGOING THE MEADOW. Step into a tran-

quil space, designed specifically for children ages birth-3.

Infants, crawlers, and early walkers have a bright, clean, sensory-rich environment to explore, as they make sense of this fascinating world. 3813 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, cmccleveland.org

January 2024 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 37

❅ 38 | Family Living at Its Best

❅

59. Learn how to knit or sew 60. Learn a new dance 61. Send a card or letter to a friend 62. Call a relative 63. Have a spa day 64. Make paper snowflakes 65. Perform a random act of kindness 66. Make maple syrup snow candy 67. Read stories about winter 68. Make wildflower seed bombs to plant in spring 69. Visit a mall play place 70. Make suncatchers to hang in your windows 71. Create a winter bucket list 72. Have a family dance party or competition 73. Make and enjoy a sensory bin 74. Decorate a gingerbread house 75. Have a Nerf battle 76. Make paper airplanes 77. Create a seasonal playlist 78. Host a slumber party 79. Make snow globes 80. Select old clothes or toys to donate 81. Have a family cooking competition 82. Browse an antique store 83. Complete a jigsaw puzzle

Area Attractions 84. Stroll through the Cleveland Cultural Gardens 85. Visit the Rockefeller Greenhouse 86. Attend a maple syrup event 87. Window shop at the local mall 88. Browse an independent bookstore 89. Explore the Cleveland Museum of Art 90. Spend time at downtown events in Cleveland or Akron 91. Visit a local toy shop to make wish lists 92. Pick up small treats at West Side Market 93. Explore Lake View Cemetery 94. Visit the closest destination shopping center, like Crocker Park or Pinecrest 95. Explore your nearest neighborhood town square 96. Try tobogganing in Cleveland Metroparks 97. Visit a museum, science center or aquarium on a free/discount day 98. Attend a local library event 99. Experience a Winter festival 100. Attend a local park district event

❄

❄ ❅ January 2024 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 39

camp

8 Reasons

to Start Your Summer Camp Search Now

By Shana O’Malley-Smith

E

ven though we’re still crunching through snow covered sidewalks and enjoying winter activities in Northeast Ohio, summer break will be on the horizon before we know it. Now is the time to start thinking about summer camp options for your child. Starting your search now will help you (and your child) decide on the best fit, plan your budget and get the best price, make accommodations and more.

1. Evaluate your child’s interests and hobbies. A lot can change in a year. Did your child start a new sport or extracurricular that they’d like to spend more time on this summer?

Maybe a specialized camp is the right fit this year. Your child is another year older, so maybe they meet an age or grade level requirement for a camp they showed interest in. Start the conversation with your child now to begin your search.

2. Make sure it’s the right fit. Looking at camps now will give you plenty of time to learn all about the camp and what it offers. You can read reviews, talk to other parents who have had children attend the camp and make sure it’s the best fit for your child. A few important questions you may want to ask are:

• What is the ratio of adult supervision to children enrolled and how are

40 | Family Living at Its Best

children grouped together?

• What type of training and education does the camp staff have that makes them suited to work with young children?

• What is the schedule of the camp and what is a typical day like?

3. Special requests or accommodations. If you’re interested in a camp but not sure if they would be able to manage your child’s special needs, allergies, dietary restrictions, religious practices, etc., this would be a good time to reach out and see if they can accommodate. Giving the camp proper notice allows them to make adjustments to be inclusive.

4. Early bird pricing. You know the “early bird gets the worm” and the early registrations usually get the best price. Take advantage of early deals, coupon codes and special offers. Sign up for camp emails, follow their social media accounts and reach out to them directly to stay in the loop about pricing and deals.

5. Grab your spot while it’s available. Once you have decided on the camps you’re interested in, make sure you know when registration begins.

Some camps, especially specialized camps, will sell out quickly. There’s usually a limited number of spots available and once those are full, there

might be a waitlist and no guarantee that your child will be able to attend.

6. Financing and payment. Camp can be costly. Looking at the price of camp now can give your family time to plan financially. Camps may offer payment plans, financial aid or scholarships to help with the cost. Check with the camp to see what their financing options are and if you’re eligible for aid.

7. Get paperwork and forms completed early. Summer camps will require some paperwork such as medical forms, emergency contact information, pick up/drop off information, dietary and allergy information, etc. Some camps may also require a physical and copies of your child’s immunization records before they can attend.

8. Coordinate with other families.

If your child is interested in attending camp with relatives or friends, it’s best to coordinate early. Maybe it makes sense so you can carpool together, or just having a sense of comfort knowing there’s another familiar face there. If your child is attending with a buddy, make the camp aware as soon as possible so they can make sure your children have the proper accommodations together.

January 2024 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 41

January Calendar

Creative Kids

1/6

Super Saturday at Beck Center for the Arts. You and your young aspiring artists explore music, dance theater and visual arts. Ages 2-7. 10 a.m. 17801 Detroit Ave., Lakewood, beckcenter.org

1/11

Creative Kids in the Kitchen.

Ages 8-15 will have a fun afternoon of hands-on, plant-based cooking. 6:30 p.m. Wildwood Cultural Center, Willoughby, allevents.in/willoughby/ creative-kids-in-the-kitchen

1/17

Mess Makers: Texture Day - Akron Art Museum. Little

ones will create texture-based artworks as they engage their senses through touch.

11 a.m.-1 p.m. 1 S. High St., akronartmuseum.org

Find more events at NortheastOhioParent.com

42 | Family Living at Its Best

Pick - A - Day

MONDAYS

Campus Life: Teens. Food,

games, and conversations that matter to teens. 6:30-8:30 p.m. That Place for Teens, 1480 Pearl Road, #10, Brunswick, thatplace4teens.com

Middle School Makers. A

club for middle schoolers who love to create, craft, explore and discover. 7 p.m. Kent Free Library, 312 W. Main St., kentfreelibrary.org

TUESDAYS

WEDNESDAYS

Create an assortment of handmade crafts while learning the basic hand sewing skills. Ages 7-11. 1/16-3/19. 4:30-6 p.m. Bay Arts, 28795 Lake Road, Bay Village, bayarts.net

world of astronomy in a fun, social environment on the third Wednesday of each month.

6:30 p.m. Lake Erie Nature & Science Center, 28728 Wolf Road, Bay Village, lensc.org

Wonderful Winter Sewing.

Read-Aloud Club. Discover

great new books with friends and read aloud. Through 2/27. 5 p.m. Shaker Library, 16500 Van Aken Blvd., shakerlibrary.org

Astronomy Club. Explore the

THURSDAYS

BioClub. Teens explore the

world of biology through the preparation of experiments, discussions and more. 1/16 & 2/20. 6:30 p.m. Environmental Learning Center, 7250 Alexander Road, Concord Twp., lakemetroparks.com

FRIDAYS

Kids’ Pickleball. Learn dinks,

groundstrokes, volleys and serves as well as the rules and etiquette of the game. 1/26-3/8. Moreland Hills Elementary School, orangerec.com

SATURDAYS

Animal Care. Behind the scenes

look at the animal care at The Nature Center at Shaker Lakes.

Second Saturday of each month.

Through 4/13/2024. 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

2600 South Park Blvd., Cleveland, shakerlakes.org

STEAM Team Saturdays. On the second and fourth Saturday of each month, children, ages 5-11 discover the wonder of S.T.E.A.M. Noon. Akron Children’s Museum, 216 S. Main St., akronkids.org

Family Saturdays at Skylight Park-Tower City. Games, crafts,

live entertainment and more. First and third Saturdays. Noon-4 p.m.

230 W. Huron Road, Cleveland, towercitycenter.com

Comic Club. Work in the company of others to create a page of comics, drawings, or poetry. 1/6 and 2/3. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Community Arts Center, 2937 W. 25th St., clevelandart.org

Young Improvisors. Learn

and perform a wide range of improvisation skills and games.

Ages 9-12. 10 a.m. Talespinner Children’s Theatre, 5209 Detroit Ave., Cleveland, talespinnerchildrenstheatre.org

SUNDAYS

Family FUNday. Family-friendly

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

PROGRESS WITH CHESS Class.

1/7-3/24 at Beachwood Community Center, 25325 Fairmount Blvd., progresswithchess.org. 1/213/24 at Lakewood High School, recreation. lakewoodcityschool.org

Mentor Marsh Family Hike.

Come explore the forest. 2-3:30 p.m. Cleveland Museum of Natural History, The Carol H. Sweet Nature Center, 5185 Corduroy Road, Mentor, cmnh.org

1/12

1/19

dren ages 4-8 learn Spanish with games, crafts, songs and more. 4 p.m. Avon Branch Library, 37485 Harvest Drive, lorainpubliclibrary.org

for communal singing and musical accompaniment followed by a potluck dinner. 6-8 p.m. 750 White Pond Dr., jewishakron.org

Beginner Spanish for Kids. Chil-

1/14

Friday with Friends. Join Bel El

1/20

Preschool Park Pals. Learn

Sensory-Friendly Day at the Cleveland Museum of Art.

1/7

1/15

1/26-28

learn names and properties of the stones and how to use them.

Noon. Namaste Life Center, 620 E. Smith Road, Medina, namastelifecenter.org

Calling all kids: Become #1 at identifying #2 and learn about tracks along the way. 10-11:30 a.m. F. A. Seiberling Nature Realm, 1828 Smith Road, Akron, summitmetroparks.org

Junie B.’s first day of first grade, and a lot of things have changed for her. The Players Guild at Kent State University, 6000 Frank Ave. NW., North Canton, playersguildtheatre.com

Day - By - Day Crystals R 4 Kids. Kids 6 and up

1/9-28

Mrs. Doubtfire. The hysterical

and heartfelt story of an out-ofwork actor who will do anything for his kids. Connor Palace at Playhouse Square, 1615 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, playhousesquare.org

1/10

Modern Farming and Conservation in CVNP. The Trapp Family Farm is part of the Countryside Initiative farms and Mark Trapp will be your speaker. 4:30-6:30 p.m. Happy Days Lodge, 500 W. Streetsboro St., Peninsula, conservancyforcvnp.org

1/11

Comics Lab. Tweens and teens

xplore exercises making comics.

6 p.m. Reed Memorial Library, 167 E. Main St., Ravenna, reedlibrary.org

about turtles and enjoy hot chocolate. 1-2 p.m. Carlisle Reservation, 12882 Diagonal Road, LaGrange, loraincountymetroparks.com

School’s Out: Tracks & Scat.

“Hear Our Voices” Annual MLK Day Celebration. An all-

day celebration including free admission, hands-on activities, and more. Maltz Museum of Jewish Heritage, 2929 Richmond Road, Beachwood, maltzmuseum.org

Those with intellectual or developmental disabilities participate with less stimulation before they open to the public. 9 a.m. 11150 East Blvd., clevelandart.org

Junie B. Jones, The Musical. It’s

2/2

Groundhog Day Open House.

Live animal viewing, woodchuck games, crafts, and listening for nighttime animal calls. 5-7 p.m.

Sippo Lake Park Wildlife Conservation Center, 800 Genoa Ave., Massillon, starkparks.com

2024 MLK Free Community Day. Performances by The Cleveland Orchestra, the Cleveland Orchestra Youth Orchestra, and more. 1 p.m. Severance Hall, 11001 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, clevelandorchestra.com

Discovery Day - Cleveland Museum of Natural History.

Enjoy free general admission, connect with scientists, take part in hands-on activities and more.

10 a.m. 1 Wade Oval Dr., Cleveland, cmnh.org

✱ SUBMIT YOUR EVENT TO US! northeastohioparent.com/events/community/add

January 2024 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 43

Check out these Advertisers for more Winter Fun! BECK CENTER FOR THE ARTS

Beck Center for the Arts is a non-profit performing arts and arts education organization located in Lakewood. The 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 we 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. The center educates and entertains over 65,000 people annually, also hosts the longest-running youth theater program in the U.S. It 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. Visit beckcenter.org

FINE ARTS ASSOCIATION

Embrace the enchantment of winter with immersive art, music, dance, theatre and creative arts therapies classes. Unleash your creativity in an inspiring atmosphere, where talented instructors guide you through the magic of expression. FAA offers a unique blend of warmth and artistic exploration. Elevate your winter experience with them — where passion meets the chill, and creativity knows no bounds. Join now for a season of artistic brilliance. Visit fineartsassociation.org or call 440-951-7500.

LORAIN COUNTY METRO PARKS

The Lorain County Metro Parks is the place to be this winter. Hide from the stress of the world and escape to the outdoors to explore the sights of the season. With sledding hills, snowshoe rentals, miles of trails and a chance to see wildlife in winter — there’s something for everyone. Come enjoy nature nearby. For more information on programs, events, opportunities for take-home crafts and virtual programming, visit loraincountymetroparks.com or follow on Facebook.

POP CULTURE CLE

Pop Culture is Cleveland’s best kept secret for ice cream and desserts. Birthday parties, corporate catering, event catering, food truck, ice cream cart rentals, breakfast catering, fundraising, and dessert catering are all available as well. 33549 Solon Rd. Solon, 216-245-7316, popculturecle.com

44 | Family Family Living Living at at Its Its Best Best

Winter Fun Events FRIDAY-SUNDAY

Polar Blast Tubing. An adrenaline pumping experience that is perfect for children and adults of all ages.

1146 West Highland Rd., Sagamore Hills, bmbw.com

THROUGH 2/19

Crocker Park Ice Skating. The rink will be in Union Square in front of Regal Cinemas. Crocker Park, 30147 Detroit Road, Westlake, crockerpark.com Cuyahoga Falls Ice Skating. Friday: 3-8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday: 12-8 p.m. Downtown Pavilion and Amphitheater, 2085 Front St. cityofcf.com Winter Blast Lock3. Ice skating, igloos, bumper cars, indoor putt-putt golf, Archie the talking snowman, firepits, ice bikes and more. Lock 3, 200 S. Main St., Akron, lock3live.com

THROUGH 2/25

The Rink at Wade Oval. Take winter out for a spin on the fresh ice.

Friday-Sunday. Cleveland, universitycircle.org Tobogganing at The Chalet in Mill Stream Run Reservation. Experience the icy thrill of tobogganing at the twin, 700-foot refrigerated ice chutes.16200 Valley Pkwy., Strongsville, clevelandmetroparks.com Cool Adventures. Bundle up, get outside, explore, enjoy and connect. Beech Creek Botanical Garden and Nature Preserve, 11929 Beech St. NE, Alliance, beechcreekgardens.org

1/10-14

Disney on Ice: Magic in the Stars.

Experience the dynamic moments that take place on the ice and in the air. Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse, 1 Center Court, Cleveland, feldentertainment.com

1/11

Wintertime Hike & Fire. Families with young children enjoy a winter walk and a story around the fire.

5:30-6:30 p.m. F. A. Seiberling Nature Realm, 1828 Smith Road, Akron, summitmetroparks.org

1/13

Downtown Willoughby Ice Fest.

Beautiful ice block decor will be lining Erie Street and Point Park. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. dtwilloughby.com

1/15

Winter is for the Birds. Learn about the fascinating world of birds with hands-on activities and real bird feathers, skulls, and eggs. 2-3 p.m.

Silver Springs Park, 5027 Stow Road, stowohio.org

1/18

Snowshoe Glow Hike. Glow up the night as we strap on our snowshoes and learn about our park's nocturnal creatures on this glow-in-thedark hike. 6:30-7:30 p.m. Sippo Lake Park-North, 5712 12th St., Canton, starkparks.com

1/20

Mentor Chill Out. A full-day of family-friendly fun as the main grounds are transformed into a winter wonderland. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Mentor Civic Amphitheater, 8600 Munson Road, cityofmentor.com

1/21

Family Day: Let it Snow, Pick your Snowman. Step-by-step instruction with local artists.

1-3 p.m. Painting with a Twist, 2955 W Market St., Fairlawn, paintingwithatwist.com

1/23

Winter Wildlife Walk. Join a naturalist to learn about local winter wildlife. 10- a.m.

Oenslager Nature Center, 6100 Ridge Road, Sharon Ctr., medinacountyparks.com

1/26-28

Crocker Park Ice Festival.

Shopping, dining and winter magic with 3D ice displays, live demonstrations, and more. Crocker Park, Westlake, crockerpark.com

1/27

Family Snowshoe Lesson 101.

Discover what snowshoeing is all about. 11 a.m.-noon.

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

1/31

Discovery Days: It’s Winter.

Let’s unwrap the cold blanket of snow to see what wintery things we can find. Ages 3-6. 11 a.m. Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation, 4524 E. 49th St., Cuyahoga Hts., clevelandmetroparks.com

• Sponsored Content •

A Community Event!

HEAR OUR VOICES: ANNUAL MLK DAY CELEBRATION MONDAY, JANUARY 15, 11AM – 5PM Free & open to the public

-------------

-------------

,--------.

Join us for free all day at the Maltz Museum!

Honor iconic civil rights leader the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and everyday citizens who fought against discrimination while celebrating the everyday hero in you. Tour the Maltz Museum’s permanent collections and special exhibition, The Girl in the Diary: Searching for Rywka from the Lodz Ghetto, while enjoying hands-on activities on this family-friendly day!

For more information or to register visit maltzmuseum.org/mlk Sponsored by the Jewish Federation of Cleveland’s Community Relations Committee.

January 2024 - NortheastOhioParent.com

| 45

,--------.

MONDAYS

PARENTk & CHILD

Baby and Me Story Time. A fun

interactive session using songs, rhymes, puppets and instruments.

10-10:30 a.m. Through 5/13. Wadsworth Public Library, 132 Broad St., wadsworthlibrary.com

Leapin’ Literature. Little ones,

with a caregiver, explore nursery rhymes through music and art experiences. Ages 2-6. 2/6-27.

10-11:15 a.m. Fine Arts Association, Euclid, fineartsassociation.org

Music Makers. Join for stories with a beat, instruments and dancing.

Through 2/26. 5:45 p.m. Avon Branch Library, 37485 Harvest Drive, lorainpubliclibrary.org

MONDAY & WEDNESDAY

Stroller Strides at Crocker Park. A functional, total-body conditioning workout designed for moms with kids in tow. 9:30-10:30 a.m.

Westlake, crockerpark.com

Sing & Swing. An engaging early

childhood music and movement program for young children and an adult. 1/6 -3/24. 9:15, 10:15 or 11:15 a.m. The Music Settlement, 11125 Magnolia Dr., Cleveland, themusicsettlement.org

TUESDAYS

WEDNESDAYS

songs and fingerplays. 10:30-11 a.m. Brunswick Library, 3649 Center Road, mcdl.info

and movement class for preschoolers. Through 5/1. 10-11 a.m.

Bainbridge Library, 17222 Snyder Road, Chagrin Falls, divi.geaugalibrary.net

Family Storytime. Books, rhymes,

Winter Storytime. Come read

stories with Miss Robin. Through 2/27. 10-10:30 a.m. Garrettsville Branch Library, 10482 South St., Garrettsville, portagelibrary.org

Tales for Twos. Stories, songs and movements. 1/23-4/23. 11 a.m.

North Canton Public Library, 185 N. Main St., ncantonlibrary.com

Rhythm & Rhyme. A story, music

Music in Motion. Stories, rhymes,

music & instruments for children 2-5 with caregiver. Through 4/24.

10:30 a.m. Morley Library, 184 Phelps St., Painesville, morleylibrary.org

Baby Bonanza. Books, bopping

and bouncing. 9:30 a.m. Through 5/29. Coventry Village Branch Library, 1925 Coventry Road, Cleveland Hts., heightslibrary.org

THURSDAYS

Bedtime Stories for Families. Hear relaxing stories, stretch a little and sing calming songs. Through 2/14. 6:30-7:15 p.m. Firestone Park Branch Library, 1486 Aster Ave., Akron, akronlibrary.org

0 to 3: Read to Me Playdate.

Read engaging books and sing lively songs with plenty of time for playing and talking. Through 2/23.

10:30-11:15 a.m. Jefferson Branch Library, 850 Jefferson Ave., Cleveland, cpl.org

FRIDAYS

Finger Paint Fridays. Bring your

little one to explore their creativity.

Year-round. 10 a.m. Mentor Headlands Branch Library, 4669 Corduroy Road, Mentor, mentorpl.org

Family Storytime at the Great Northern Mall. Family storytime

with the Cuyahoga County Public Library on the first Friday of each month. 11:30 a.m.-12 p.m. 4954 Great Northern Mall, North Olmsted, greatnorthernohio.com

SATURDAYS

Family Storytime. Rhymes, Toddler Tales. Stories, songs, and rhymes for children 2-3 years old and their caregivers. 10 a.m.

Amherst Public Library, 221 Spring St., amherst.lib.oh.us

Baby Time. Infants and their fa-

vorite adults are invited for stories, songs and activities. 11:15 a.m.

Twinsburg Public Library, 10050 Ravenna Road, twinsburglibrary.org

MONDAYTHURSDAY

TUESDAYS & THURSDAYS

tivities, music, games and simple crafts. Ages 2-3 with an adult. 9:30 or 11 a.m. Monday-Wednesday, and 9:30 a.m. Thursday. Lake Erie Nature & Science Center, 28728 Wolf Road, Bay Village, lensc.org

songs and rhymes. Through 4/25.

10:30 & 11:30 a.m. Euclid Public Library, 631 E 222nd St, Euclid, euclidlibrary.org

Frogs & Polliwogs. Hands-on ac-

46 | Family Living at Its Best

Family Fun Storytime. Stories,

songs and play. Ages 2-6 with a caregiver. Westlake Porter Public Library, 27333 Center Ridge Road, westlakelibrary.org

Mini and Me. Intergenerational

class to explore movement, music and acting. 9 a.m. Talespinner Children’s Theatre, 5209 Detroit Ave., Cleveland, talespinnerchildrenstheatre.org

Everything you planned on

MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. DAY EVENTS

11/11

Celebration of Martin Luther King Jr. Learn

about Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr's life and legacy, then write your own autobiography. 4-5:30 p.m. Union Branch Library, 3463 E. 93rd St., Cleveland, cpl.org

Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Recital.

and more!

1/15

You’ve planned for your senior living needs.

So have we!

1/14

Celebrate the life and mission of the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. 3 p.m. The Music Settlement, 11125 Magnolia Dr., Cleveland, themusicsettlement.org

Martin Luther King Jr. Day at the Akron Zoo. Enjoy

free admission for all guests. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. 505 Euclid Ave., Akron, akronzoo.org

MLK Day Camp. Bring the kids to Fine Arts to explore

With five levels of care, you won’t have to look any further than McGregor.

Our goal is to keep you living independently as long as possible.

We are a life plan community that can provide more attentive lifestyle amenities and healthcare services as your needs evolve.

Youth Day Camp. Kids ages 5-14 spend their day off

Five Levels of Care. One Place.

McGregor Senior Living.

“Hear Our Voices” Annual MLK Day Celebration.

An all-day celebration including free admission, hands-on activities, and more. Maltz Museum of Jewish Heritage, 2929 Richmond Road, Beachwood, maltzmuseum.org

Discovery Day - Cleveland Museum of Natural History. Enjoy free general admission, connect with

scientists, take part in hands-on activities and more.

10 a.m. 1 Wade Oval Dr., Cleveland, cmnh.org

dance, music, visual arts and theatre. 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

38660 Mentor Ave., Willoughby, finartsassociation.org

enjoying gym games, swimming, rock climbing and more. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Cleveland Clinic Akron General LifeStyles: Bath, Green & Stow, my.clevelandclinic.org

2024 MLK Free Community Day. Performances by The Cleveland Orchestra, the Cleveland Orchestra Youth Orchestra, and more. 1 p.m. Severance Hall, 11001 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, clevelandorchestra.com

Martin Luther King Jr. Day - Akron Art Museum.

Celebrate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. with free admission. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 1 S. High St., akronartmuseum.org

School’s Out: Fiber Arts Carnival. Learn basic

techniques for transforming fabric scraps into 3-dimensional, whimsical scenes.10 a.m.-4 p.m. Canton Museum of Art, 1001 Market Ave. N., Canton, cantonart.org

14900 Private Drive Cleveland OH 44112 216.851.8200 • mcgregoramasa.org January 2024 - NortheastOhioParent.com

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JUST FOR HOMESCHOOLERS PICK - A - DAY

MONDAYS

Simply Science: Chemistry.

Measurements, properties, elements, compounds, atomic structure and more. 1/8-4/22.

Grades 7-12. 9 a.m. Akron Fossils & Science Center, 2080 S. Cleveland Massillon Rd., Copley, akronfossils.com

TUESDAYS

Homeschool Book Club. Home-

schoolers ages 8-12 join weekly meetings to read together, discuss and have fun. 1/9-5/7.

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

WEDNESDAYS

Homeschool Fine Arts Medley.

Rotate through four artistic disciplines: art, music, dance, and theatre. 1/8-2/19. Ages 5-8 and 9-12.

10 a.m.-3 p.m. Fairmount Center for the Arts, 8400 Fairmount Road, Novelty, fairmountcenter.org

FRIDAYS

Homeschool Hops. 90-min-

Homeschool Skate. Exciting and

beneficial form of recreation for home school children. 10:30 a.m.-Noon. Mentor Ice Area, 8600 Munson Road, mentoricearena. com

DAY - BY - DAY

1/8

Homeschool Family Day.

Self-guided experience with themed activities for grades K-3 & 4-8. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Greater Cleveland Aquarium, 2000 Sycamore St., Cleveland, greaterclevelandaquarium.com

1/11

Climbing and Fitness. Meet

up with other homeschoolers and get your climbing on. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. High Point Climbing and Fitness, 2499 Keith St. NW, Cleveland, highpointclimbing.com

Homeschool Group. Meet and

discuss ideas and share what you would like to get out of the library. 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Randolph Branch Library, 1639 State Route 44, Randolph, portagelibrary.org

ute jump just for homeschool students. 4-6 p.m. SkyZone, 6217 Chittenden Road, Boston Hts., skyzone.com/bostonheights

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Homeschool Explorers: Wildlife

Tracks. Learn about native wildlife tracks and how to find them.

Ages 7-12. 10-11:30 a.m. Columbia Reservation, 25145 Royalton Road, Columbia Station, loraincountymetroparks.com

1/15

Homeschool STEM JR. Ages 7-9

learn about sources of renewable energy and make a solar powered updraft tower. 2-3 p.m. West River Library, 1194 W. River Rd. N., Elyria, elyrialibrary.org

1/18

Creative Writing for Homeschoolers. Nature will serve as the inspiration for homeschoolers to improve their writing skills. Ages 8-12. 2-3:15 p.m. Oenslager Nature Center, 6100 Ridge Road, Sharon Ctr., medinacountyparks.com

Homeschoolers: Birds of Prey.

Ages 7-12 explore the lives of owls, hawks, eagles and falcons. 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. or 1:30-3:30 p.m.

Liberty Park Nature Center, 9999 Liberty Road, Twinsburg, summitmetroparks.org

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Homeschool Readers. Come

prepared to talk about a book you have read. 10:30 a.m.-noon.

Richfield Branch Library, 3761 S. Grant St., akronlibrary.org

Art for Homeschool Families.

Learn about the art of American abstract painter, Jackson Pollock.

2-3 p.m. Wadsworth Public Library, 132 Broad St., wadsworthlibrary.com

1/30

Pie Baking for Homeschoolers. Learn the basics of making

homemade apple pie. 9:30-11:30 a.m. Lehman’s, 4779 Kidron Road, Dalton, lehmans.com

2/24-3/3

Colonial Williamsburg Homeschool Days. Homeschoolers and their families discover history brought to life. 101 Visitor Center Dr., Williamsburg, VA, colonialwilliamsburg.org

Sensory-Friendly Activities Cleveland Museum of Art Sensory-Friendly Saturdays The Museum of Art offers adaptations to meet diverse sensory-processing needs every third Saturday from 9-10 a.m. Museum visitors on the autism spectrum, along with those experiencing dementia and any guests of all ages who have intellectual or developmental disabilities can participate in a calm museum experience with less stimulation prior to the building’s opening to the public. The Museum also features a calming corner. 11150 East Blvd., Cleveland, clevelandart.org

Cleveland Cavaliers/ Cleveland Monsters As you take in a basketball or hockey game this winter, know that Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse has developed several offerings that accommodate guests’ special needs. Those include a sensory sensitivity in which the Cavs and many other pro sports teams have partnered with KultureCity, an organization that advises venues, organizations and small businesses on sensory needs and how to better engage with individuals with sensory needs.

At the venue, the team offers KultureCity Sensory Bags, which contain special KCVIP badges, fidget toys, noise-canceling headphones and other resources.

Also, weighted lap pads and sensory room for individuals who need to regroup after becoming overstimulated. rocketmortgagefieldhouse.com

Children’s Museum of Cleveland This popular destination for area children features several accommodations for neurodiverse guests. Those include noise-canceling headphones, sensory toys and visual supports upon requests.

The museum also includes a sensory-friendly room on the building’s first level, across from the Arts and Parts exhibit. This private space contains special lighting, calming music and other sensory-support resources designed to create a space for respite if a visitor becomes overwhelmed or overstimulated. cmcleveland.org Playhouse Square PlayhouseSquare will host a sensory-friendly performance of “The Rainbow Fish” on Jan. 28 at the Mimi Ohio Theatre. Sensory-friendly performances at PlayhouseSquare include lower sound levels, especially for startling or loud sounds; low lights; and designated calming areas staffed by volunteer specialists. playhousesquare.org

Akron Children’s Museum The museum partners with Akron-area agencies, including the University of Akron’s Inclusioneers, to spread awareness of inclusion and the importance of providing every child a chance to engage fully, contribute and participate in their community. The museum also has partnered with KultureCity to offer the organization’s sensory bags. akronkids.org Akron Zoo The Akron Zoo launched its sensory-inclusive programming in 2017, and was the second zoo in the United States to be certified sensory inclusive. In addition to sensory bags in partnership with KultureCity, the zoo also provides quiet areas, which typically have less activity and more spaces to sit and regroup after becoming overstimulated. akronzoo.org

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Tech talk

GOT STEM? LEARNING TOYS TO HELP INTRODUCE YOUR CHILD TO SCIENCE ADVENTURES.

By Elena Epstein, Director of the National Parenting Product Awards Science, technology, engineering and math is a big part of our lives. Whether doing everyday things or in career paths. These toys provide more than just play, but STEM-fun for ages 2 and younger.

1. SURPRISE POWERZ TALKING STEM DOLL – ASTRO THE ASTRONAUT This talking doll is full of knowledge about planets, moons and stars. With 75+ phrases, sound effects, and singalongs, Astro helps build STEM vocabulary and ignites imaginative play for budding young astronauts. $49.99, ages 2-5, surprisepowerz.com

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2. PYXEL A CODER’S BEST FRIEND A pet that teaches coding. Use a computer or tablet to code this four-legged friend and learn up to two coding languages: Blockly and Python. Kids can code PYXEL to perform tricks, change colors, make and react to sounds, and express emotions. $124.99, ages 8+, educationalinsights.com 3. TINKERING LABS ELECTRIC MOTORS CATALYST STEM KIT Ignite curiosity and innovation in your young inventor. With 50+ components and 10 engaging challenges, kids can invent their own unique creations. $65, ages 8-13, tinkeringlabs.com 4. SUMOLOGY A fast-paced tile placement game where you build equations by combining new and existing tiles. Sharpens math and strategy skills. $40, ages 8+, simplyfun.com NAPPA Awards has been celebrating the best in family products for 34 years. For more product reviews and gift ideas visit nappaawards.com

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