Northeast Ohio Parent Magazine - March 2022

March 2022 FREE!

Summer Camp & Programs Pick an Adventure

Growing by

LEAPS bounds and

Toddler to Preschooler Stages

Healthy Family Time Together

Community Focus City of Mentor

Tech Trends Connect Safely

NortheastOhioParent.com

March 2022 - NortheastOhioParent.com

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2 | Family Living at Its Best

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March

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NortheastOhioParent.com

departments

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COMMUNITY FO MENTOR

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EDITOR’S NOTE Sleepless in Cleveland.

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CUS:

WORTH NOTING Healthy Family Living, Reading Room and more.

oose Why families ch y in cit is th e lov d an ty.

Lake Coun

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OPEN HOUSES Ask questions, take a tour and see if a particular school is the right fit at one of these open houses in the region.

features

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FAMILY CALENDAR

Put a spring in your family’s step with these happenings from around the region. Plus, it’s the sweetest time of year — check out pg. 58 for area maple syrup events!

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SAFER SOCIAL MEDIA

We highlight the importance of communicating with kids about the dangers of social media.

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CAMP AND SUMMER PROGRAMS

Continue your search for your kids’ summer adventure with this lineup of camps in and out of the region. Also, look for the Camp Finder on pg. 48, an easy-to-digest grid to view day camp offerings.

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ON THE COVER:

2021 Cover Kids Winner Logan Boone, age 3.5, shows us how much she’s grown in the past year.

PHOTO BY MEMORIES BY STEPHANIE

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YOUR AGING PARENTS

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GROWING UP

Milestones from toddler to preschool-aged, and how to help kids with socialization at these ages.

Plus, check out preschool offerings in the region, starting on pg. 12.

Helping caregivers navigate online issues for aging parents.

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#CLEMAMA

Columnist Sara Carnes discusses the sleepover question.

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EDITOR'S

NOTE

PHOTO BY PRELUDE PHOTOGRAPHY

SLEEPLESS IN CLEVELAND

VOL. NO. 9 • ISSUE NO. 3

March 2022

The joke around our house is that my younger son “never really wanted to be a baby.” This little guy, Northeast Ohio Parent is a property of from the first moment I met him, acted independently. It felt like he navigated what food he wanted, how long he wanted to be held, and when he felt it was time for bed. While he hit nearly every PO Box 1088 Hudson, OH 44236 330-822-4011 developmental milestone early — walking, potty NortheastOhioParent.com training, tying his shoes— there is one he never quite mastered: going to bed.

PUBLISHER - Brad Mitchell I guess I didn’t value the importance of sleep until I became a mother. I envy the parents who brad@northeastohioparent.com have their kids in their beds by 8 p.m., and while they might not be sleeping, their rooms are quiet.

330-714-7712 Mom and Dad can have a peaceful moment on the couch watching the latest Nextflix series.

EDITORIAL: EDITOR - Angela Gartner That is not a typical night for us. We are constantly in a sleep war called “The Battle of Staying angela@northeastohioparent.com in Your Room”’ or “The Bedtime Revolutionary” that carries on for hours. Instead, we should just 216-536-1914 be getting to bed a lot earlier.

ART DIRECTOR - Sherry Lundberg sherry@northeastohioparent.com According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, children ages 6-12 should be getting 9-12 hours of sleep, and kids 13 and older should be getting 8-10 hours. Preschoolers and MANAGING EDITOR - Janet Cho janet@northeastohioparent.com toddlers need even more, from 10-14 hours, with the younger ages needing the most sleep.

ASSISTANT EDITOR - Georgia Lattas For kids ages 9 and older who are struggling with sleep insomnia, a March study called, “Trageorgia@northeastohioparent.com jectories of Insomnia Symptoms from Childhood through Young Adulthood,” show these issues DIGITAL MARKETING SPECIALIST/ will trickle into adulthood.

SALES CONSULTANT - Samantha Olp, “The odds of insomnia symptoms worsening into adult insomnia were 2.6-fold and 5.5-fold 330-636-6127 sam@northeastohioparent.com among short-sleeping children and adolescents, respectively,” it said.

The authors note, “Early sleep interventions are a health priority, and pediatricians should not ADVERTISING SALES: Chris Geer, 330-614-8471 expect insomnia symptoms to resolve by themselves in a high proportion of children.” chris@northeastohioparent.com While there are treatments your child’s pediatrician could suggest to help with sleep, good Janyse Heidy, 330-671-3886 bedtime habits are often recommended. janyse@northeastohioparent.com Dr. Jason Sherman, a Cleveland Clinic pediatric specialist, wrote in a 2020 article on “How to Michelle Vacha, 440-463-0146 Sunday, March 28 michelle@northeastohioparent.com Get Your Child to Go to Bed and Actually Stay There” that “kids are curious and sometimes feel Acacia Clubhouse - Lyndhurst Sherrie Kantarovich, 216-299-5455 like they’re missing out – for whatever reason – when they go to sleep. Kids want to exploreIn-person and & Drive-through sherriek@northeastohioparent.com spend time with people. Getting out of bed or refusing to sleep might be signs that your child Yvonne Pelino, 440-971-0595 Eastyvonne@northeastohioparent.com needs more structure, or it could even point to signs that your child is stressed or worried and needs to be reassured.”

OFFICE MANAGER: 20 Mitchell, 440-533-1208 Kathleen He suggests having a set bedtime, one hour of quiet time before bed. He says to be consistentSaturday, March kathleen@northeastohioparent.com Square at Crocker Park - Westlake and reassuring, offering rewards and praise for staying in bed — and don’t dwell onMarket misbehavior EVENTS MANAGER: In-person & Drive-through from the previous night if it doesn’t go well.

Lilia Lipps, 440-724-0559 I think the most important advice Sherman provided was to be calm. It’s not easy, though, espe- West Lilia@northeastohioparent cially when you are feeling tired from your own day and had hoped to get the minimum 7 hours of DISTRIBUTION INQUIRIES: sleep the CDC recommends for adults. info@northeastohioparent.com Tuesday, March 9-31 So remember, be patient. And while every bedtime won’t be perfect New! (and it might take years for some kids to have good sleep habits), Virtual Proud member of Parenting Media when it does happen, it will be a dream come true.

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• Free admission • Dozens of Camps and Education-related businesses • Camp Scholarship Giveaways • Other Raffle Prize Giveaways • Come see Jungle Terry and many more!

2021

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Beat Cabin Fever

Turn up the heat - and fun - indoorsfrom busting a move to baking healthy dishes. By Lindsay McCoy

A great way to get the entire family moving is to turn up the music.

An at-home dance party is easy to pull off. All you need is a playlist with songs that are faster paced, some space for movement, your smartphone and a portable speaker if you have one. Set up a spot in your basement to dance or move the couches and chairs out of the way. Take turns going across the room doing hops on each foot, skipping, galloping and jumping jacks. Dancing gives your child the opportunity to work on their mind-body awareness. Repetition is key in having them master these movements.

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Top off the dance party with a bubble machine. Your children will love watching the bubbles fall to the floor or chasing the bubbles to pop them.

TIME SAVER TIP: Download some of your kid’s favorite albums and songs in advance. I suggest fun beats from Disney’s “Encanto” and “Tarzan” for younger children.

Little Shoes If you’re looking for a flavorful low-carb dinner, consider making “Little Shoes.”

Zucchini or eggplant boats filled with veggies and meat make for a healthy meal to put in your weekly rotation.

INGREDIENTS:

6 small zucchini ½ lb. ground beef or turkey ¼ cup parsley or mint 3 cloves crushed garlic 1 cup fine chopped onions ¾ cup chopped tomato or can of petite diced tomatoes 4 tablespoons olive oil grated parmesan cheese ¼ cup red wine (optional) salt and pepper to taste

How to Prevent Lead Poisoning In Your Home Lead poisoning remains a concern in many communities across the country.

If you’re unfamiliar, it is most commonly seen in children and can be extremely harmful to their health.

“What we know about lead poisoning is that kids who have lead exposure in the home are often at risk for behavior problems, learning difficulties and chronic health concerns as well, such as GI problems, headaches, abdominal pain, things like that,” said Dr. Roopa Thakur, pediatrician for Cleveland Clinic Children’s.

Thakur said lead can be found all over the place, including water and soil, as well as in some imported consumer products.

So, what can parents do to help prevent lead poisoning? She said if possible, remove any hazardous lead materials from your home. Also make sure to regularly clean dusty surfaces

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Cut your zucchini in half length-wise, then scoop out the pulp inside. Use what you remove and chop up the remnants. Set aside the pulp for later.

2. Lightly sauté the hollow zucchini in the four tablespoons of olive oil until soft. Remove them from the heat and arrange them in a glass baking dish.

3. In the same pan, mix up your filling by sautéing your onion and garlic until the onions are clear. Add your ground meat and brown.

Then add your chopped zucchini pulp, tomatoes, salt and pepper and wine.

Simmer until the sauce thickens. Let the filling cool.

4. Use the mixture to fill the zucchini shoes in the baking dish.

5. Once the zucchinis are filled, you sprinkle parsley or mint on top and some grated parmesan cheese – add as much cheese as you’d like.

6. Then bake the little shoes for 45 minutes at 350 degrees.

and mop your floors.

Another tip, leave your shoes at the door after being outside. And, if you have lead pipes, run the water on cold for at least two minutes before using.

Thakur said lead poisoning can be detected through blood tests. While it is treatable, there is no cure.

“It’s very hard for us to predict what the child’s outcome is going to be, but we know that the effects of lead poisoning are not reversible. Once we get the lead level down, we cannot necessarily reverse what’s already happened,” she explained.

Thakur adds research continues to better understand lead poisoning, especially when it comes to long-term effects and how it impacts pregnant women.

— Cleveland Clinic, my.clevelandclinic.org

Spring Has Sprung!

With the arrival of spring on March 20, check on NortheastOhioParent.com to find the region’s springtime events and activities throughout the month!

ENT PAR D

REA



READING ROOM Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art

by James Nestor

Nestor tracks down men and women exploring the hidden science behind ancient breathing practices like Pranayama, Sudarshan Kriya, and Tummo and teams up with pulmonary tinkerers to scientifically test long-held beliefs about how we breathe.

The Pigeon HAS to Go to School!

by Mo Willems

Why does the Pigeon have to go to school? He already knows everything!

And what if he doesn't like it? What if the teacher doesn't like him? What if he learns too much? In this celebrated series, the Pigeon helps get kids excited about school.

Eyes That Speak to the Stars

by Joanna Ho and illustrated by Dung Ho A young boy comes to recognize his own power and ability to change the future.

When a friend at school creates a hurtful drawing, the boy turns to his family for comfort. He realizes that his eyes rise to the skies and speak to the stars, shine like sunlit rays, and glimpse trails of light from those who came before him.

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Growing by Leaps and Bounds

PHOTO BY MEMORIES BY STEPHANIE

F

By Angela Gartner rom infants to toddlers, to toddlers to preschoolers… and the list goes on. We are watching our children change daily or even weekly. We look at what’s new in developmental milestones, child socialization, choosing a daycare or preschool during a pandemic, and a book list to help kids with school and life changes.

As parents, we are looking into the future, marking off our child’s important developmental milestones. Last month, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American Academy of Pediatrics updated those milestones.

According to the AAP study published in Pediatrics, “Evidence-Informed Milestones for Developmental Surveillance Tools,” the CDC’s and Prevention’s “Learn the Signs. Act Early.” program, funded by AAP to convene an expert working group to revise its developmental surveillance checklists. The goals of the group were to identify evidence-informed milestones to include in CDC checklists, clarify when most children can be expected to reach a milestone (to discourage a wait-and-see approach), and support clinical judgment regarding screening between recommended ages.

“The earlier a child is identified with a developmental delay the better, as treatment as well as learning interventions can begin,” says Dr. Paul Lipkin, who provides clinical services to patients at the Institute’s Center for Development and Learning. He is a professor of pediatrics at The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and assisted with the “Learn the Signs. Act Early.” revisions. “At the same time, we don’t want to cause unnecessary confusion for families or professionals. Revising the guidelines with expertise and data from clinicians in the field accomplishes these goals. Review of a child’s development with these milestones also opens up a continuous dialogue between a parent and the health care provider about their child’s present and future development.”

KEY CHANGES TO DEVELOPMENTAL MILESTONES

• Added checklists for ages 15 months and 30 months. Also, now there’s a checklist for every well-child visit from 2 months to 5 years.

• Identifies additional social and emotional milestones (Example: Smiles on their own to get your attention, age 4 months).

• Removed duplicate milestones.

• Removed vague language like “may” or “begins” when referring to certain milestones and using plain language instead.

• Provides new, open-ended questions to use in discussion with families.

• Revised and expanded tips and activities for developmental promotion and early relational health.

Visit cdc.gov/ncbddd/actearly/milestones for info.

Books About

Growing Up Everything Grows

By Raffi and illustrated by Nina Mata

From children to animals, from leaves on a tree to fish in the sea, everything grows. Raffi’s popular and catchy song encourages kids to take in the world around them and appreciate the way everything is growing together.

Bye-Bye Time

By Elizabeth Verdick and illustrated by Marieka Heinlen

Being dropped off at childcare or cared for by a babysitter means saying goodbye to Mom or Dad— and for many toddlers, bye-bye is a big deal. This gentle book helps ease the transition with simple rituals. Toddlers learn that good-bye isn’t forever, it’s just for a while.

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Lola Goes to School

By Anna McQuinn and illustrated by Rosalind Beardshaw

Lola and her family prepare for the first day of school. When she arrives, she puts her things in her cubby, chooses her activities, reads, plays, and has a snack. Before she knows it, it’s time to sing the good-bye song and rush into Mommy’s arms for a warm reunion.

When things get too loud: A story about sensory overload

By Anne Alcott

When the world gets to be too much, Bo feels his Feel-O-Meter go from 1 to 10. Noises, smells, sounds, the world can be an overwhelming place. One day, Bo’s numbers climb too quickly, and all he wants to do is hide. But then he makes a remarkable little friend.

Everyone Poops

By Taro Gomi

An elephant makes a big poop. A mouse makes a tiny poop. Everyone eats, so of course, everyone poops. The concept of going to the bathroom is made concrete through this illustrated narrative that is both verbally and visually engaging, which provides a helpful potty-training tool.

TODDLER AND PRESCHOOLER SOCIALIZATION AFTER A PANDEMIC Faith Boone, a mom of two girls in Shaker Heights, had to deal with sending young children to school and daycare during a global pandemic.

“Closings (permanent or temporary), constantly purchasing disposable masks, never seeing the inside of the (new school) building, increase in rate due to deep cleaning and other Covid-related protocols),” she says about the changes they experienced. “Some of these children don’t know what it’s like to go out of the house without a mask. I think the babies and toddlers today have settled on this being a way of life. Some of them are too young to remember otherwise.”

Many families also had to stay home, so children were unable to have playdates or participate in a daycare or preschool program.

Erin Reynolds, M.A., CCC-SLP, and Melissa Hille, speech-language pathologists at North Ridgeville City Schools’ Early Childhood Learning Center, says toddlers and preschool-aged children should learn social skills such as taking turns, waiting their turn, and making eye contact with others.

“Children need to learn to play cooperatively with others, problem solve, and express their emotions with peers (e.g. children need to ask peers for toys or things they want, rather than just taking them),” Reynolds and Hille said.

While the early days of the pandemic might have disrupted learning these skills, Reynolds says, “I think it’s important to note that children are resilient and for most typically developing children, this will be a small

bump in the road.”

In fact, according to Reynolds and Hille, “classrooms now look similar to how they did prior to the pandemic, and children have more opportunities to socialize.”

However, if parents are still worried about their child’s social skills, there are opportunities inside and outside of the home to learn.

Reynolds and Hille recommend reducing screen time, playing with their children, discussing and reading about social situations in picture books, modeling social skills and talking about emotions and perspective-taking (example, “Look, he is crying. What can we do to make him feel better?”).

“If parents are unable to get their children immersed in a preschool or daycare setting, they can simulate play scenarios at home to build those skills before their child transitions to a preschool or daycare program,” Reynolds says. “There have been many parents who have gotten creative and set up playdates over Zoom. Parents can seek social groups for children and/or get their children involved in the free activities offered at their local libraries. This would allow children to experience structured social situations with the guidance of their parents or caregiver.”

Boone says she tries to supplement learning with fun workbooks and coloring sessions at home.

“The pandemic may have prepared the kiddos better than anything,” she says.”I feel they may enter kindergarten with better awareness, a better sense of mindfulness, more generosity, and they will be more polite.”



Preschool/Daycare Question Checklist

We asked Boone to help us with questions to ask a preschool and daycare facility during an open house visit, especially as parents adjust to the “new normal” of pandemic conditions. Here’s what she suggested to discuss with preschool educators and daycare providers: ✔ What COVID-19 protocols do you have in place? Temperature checks, regular cleaning, shutdown plans, etc.? ✔ How has the business changed in the last two years? Have you lost or gained staff? Have you stopped taking new children, or are you taking more children? ✔ Do you have regular day hours that accommodate working parents’ schedules? (Will you be open by 7 a.m. and will you close at 5 p.m. or after?) ✔ What is the vacation schedule, and what are the payment requirements when the facility is closed? (If the building closes for deep cleaning or health reasons, do you still have to pay to keep your spot?) ✔ Are there discounts for enrolling multiple children? ✔ What kind of social-emotional learning curriculum do you offer, and is it relevant to current events? ✔ What are you doing in terms of DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives) for your staff and the children?

Concerned about your child’s speech and language development?

Don’t Wait – Evaluate!

An evaluation with a professional Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) can give you peace of mind.

You may find that your child’s communication skills are on-target, or be connected with the speech and language therapy they need, making it a win-win situation.

Make an appointment for an evaluation today!

www.chsc.org

216-231-8787

University Circle • Broadview Heights • Lyndhurst • Westlake (All CHSC locations follow COVID safety guidelines including masks and social distancing)

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PRESCHOOL LISTINGS ACCEL SCHOOLS

ACCEL Schools is expanding its premier Early Learning program to Montessori locations in Solon, Strongsville, and Westlake. Similar to Parma Academy, the brand new, premier schools are tuition-free and serve Kindergarten through Second Grade. Visit accelschools.com/ our-schools to find a school near you.

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CLEVELAND MONTESSORI SCHOOL

Cleveland Montessori has been serving the Little Italy and Greater Cleveland Community for over 25 years, providing an education for life, which celebrates diversity, growth and joy. Students from preschool through 8th grade are met with respect and compassion as they strive to meet their individual potential in beautifully prepared classrooms that offer social, emotional and academic experiences in a unique urban setting. Apply now for 2022-23. 216-421-0700, info@clevelandmontessori.org, clevelandmontessori.org

COMMUNION OF SAINTS PRESCHOOL

Communion of Saints Preschool provides a welcoming, caring, and safe environment.

Students enjoy fun, hands-on educational activities while following Diocesan standards and guidelines. Well-trained college-degreed professional teachers guide experiences which enable your child to grow spiritually, socially, emotionally, intellectually, and physically. Children experience large group, small group, and individual learning experiences in mathematics, language arts, science, religion, art, music and dramatic play through a variety of learning centers. Social and gross motor skills are enhanced on the preschool playground and indoor large muscle room. communionofsaintsschool.org

FIT BY FIVE

We love getting children ready for Kindergarten. It’s our mission! At Fit by Five, academics & school readiness skills are presented through group activities, relays, concept obstacles, table time & station time. It’s the most all-inclusive-curriculum you’ll find in the area!

And we have a lot of fast paced fun.

You will also find plenty of pre-math concepts, numbers & letters, colors & associations, and reading readiness.

Please visit Cuyahoga County’s most popular family owned preschool, since 1969. 440-835-8558, fitbyfive.com

HANNA PERKINS SCHOOL

Hanna Perkins School is a play-based preschool and kindergarten focused on healthy social-emotional development for success in school and life. It’s the right school for kids who need a little extra, and parents who could use some extra support. In a nurturing environment of trust and mutual respect, children receive excellent academic fundamentals while developing the emotional foundation for lifelong learning and good relationships. For more than 70 years, the school’s approach has been used to train educators across Northeast Ohio. hannaperkins.org - CONTINUED ON PAGE 14 -

The 23rd Annual KidShow at the Great Lakes Mall in Mentor will be on Saturday, March 26 (11 a.m. to 6 p.m.), and Sunday, March 27 (12 p.m. to -5 p.m.).

Visit kidshowinfo.com

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PRESCHOOL LISTINGS HAWKEN SCHOOL

Hawken School, a coed toddler - 12 day school, offers an Early Childhood program on its Lyndhurst campus. With a dual commitment to academic and social curricula, its nationally recognized programming puts students at the center of learning by focusing on language development, science inquiry, math awareness, creative arts exploration, and social and emotional growth. For more information, visit hawken.edu.

LAKE ERIE NATURE & SCIENCE CENTER

As one of the first and largest nature-based preschool programs in the region, Lake Erie Nature & Science Center serves children ages 1 to 6 with age-appropriate activities to support social, physical and academic development. Children explore the wonders of science and nature with hands-on activities, crafts, music, live animal encounters, and planetarium shows. The surrounding 100-acre parkland and access to Lake Erie serve as an extended classroom for outdoor adventures. Learn more at lensc.org/preschool-programs.

LAUREL SCHOOL

Laurel School’s Pre-Primary school educates girls and boys ages 18 months to 5 years. The cognitively rich and play-based curriculum fosters creativity while laying a foundation for academic success. Students are focused on developing skills, nurturing talents, building confidence and cultivating each child in small classes. Open House on April 9 from 9 a.m.-noon for age 18 months through 12th grade. 1 Lyman Circle, Shaker Hts., 216-464-0946, laurelschool.org

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

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THE NEST SCHOOLS

At The Nest Schools, they believe involving children in hands-on experiences is the true definition of teaching.

Each day, they’re re-imagining learning through creative play opportunities where they encourage children to wonder, question, work with their peers, and experiment with different possibilities. Each element of their Nest Play curriculum shares one goal: to help children love to learn. The Nest Schools’ preschool program will prepare children for the Kindergarten Readiness Assessment (KRA). thenestschool.com

ST. BARNABAS CATHOLIC SCHOOL

St. Barnabas Catholic School is a National Blue Ribbon School of excellence ranging from preschool through 8th grade. Their preschool and full-day prekindergarten 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, emotional, physical and emotional development of students. Apply today for the 2022-2023 school year.

330-467-7921, sbcatholicschool.com

SAINT JOSEPH PARISH’S EARLY CHILDHOOD LEARNING CENTER

MONTESSORI SCHOOL OF

Located in Cuyahoga Falls, Saint Joseph Parish’s Early Childhood Learning Center creates a safe and nurturing learning experience for students in preschool through kindergarten. In addition to the standard curriculum, students have weekly classes in music, art, Spanish, P.E., and religion. Students spend time with iPads in the technology center and have a makerspace for hands-on experience with the concepts learned in class. Full-day and half-day programs are available.

330-928-2151, saintjoe.org/preschool

UNIVERSITY HEIGHTS FOUNDED 1968

- CONTINUED ON PAGE 16 -

THREE YEAR PROGRAM BEGINNING AT AGE THREE

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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PRESCHOOL LISTINGS 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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URBAN COMMUNITY SCHOOL

Urban Community School (UCS) strives to break social and economic barriers to success for Cleveland’s near west side children by providing an individualized, innovative, and challenging education. Rooted in the Ursuline Sisters’ tradition of faith, character, and educational excellence, UCS engages their faculty, families, and community partners in the successful whole child development of their students. urbancommunityschool.org

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

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

Also, check for any health guidelines for visitors.

CHAPEL HILL CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

South Campus 1639 Killian Rd, Akron 330-583-4922, chapelhillchristianschool.org March 12: 10 a.m.-Noon March 15: 9:30-11:30 a.m. and 6-7:30 p.m.

North Campus 1090 Howe Ave., Cuyahoga Falls 330-583-1949, chapelhillchristianschool.org March 12: 10 a.m.-Noon March 15: 9:30-11:30 a.m. and 6-7:30 p.m.

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COMMUNION OF SAINTS SCHOOL 2160 Stillman Road, Cleveland Heights 216-932-4117, communionofsaintsschool.org March 5: 11 a.m. (Preschool & Kindergarten Info Session)

GESU CATHOLIC SCHOOL 2450 Miramar Blvd., University Hts. 216-932-0620, gesu.com March 27: 12:30-2:30 p.m.

GILMOUR ACADEMY

34001 Cedar Road, Gates Mills 440-473-8050, gilmour.org/visit April 24: Noon

HAWKEN SCHOOL

Lower & Middle Schools 5000 Clubside Road, Lyndhurst 440-423-4446, hawken.edu April 10: 1 p.m.

Upper School 12465 County Line Road, Gates Mills 440-423-4446, hawken.edu April 24: 1 p.m.

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

HERSHEY MONTESSORI Upper School Huntsburg Campus 11530 Madison Road, Huntsburg Twp. 440-636-6290, hershey-montessori.org March 5, April 9, May 7: 10 a.m.-Noon

Lower School Concord Campus 10229 Prouty Road, Concord Twp. 440-357-0918, hershey-montessori.org March 5, April 9, May 7: 1-3 p.m.

JULIE BILLIART SCHOOLS Akron 380 Mineola Ave., Akron 330-333-5280, juliebilliartschool.org March 15: 9-10:30 a.m Lyndhurst 4982 Clubside Road, Lyndhurst 216-381-1191, juliebilliartschool.org April 12: 6-7:30 p.m.

Westlake Campus 3600 Crocker Road, Westlake 440-471-4150, juliebilliartschool.org March 29, April 26: 9-10:30 a.m.

LAKE RIDGE ACADEMY 37501 Center Ridge Road, North Ridgeville 440-327-1175, Lakeridgeacademy.org April 24: 1 p.m.

(Spring Preview Day)

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LAUREL SCHOOL

SPRING OPEN HOUSES Cont.

Lyman Campus 1 Lyman Circle, Shaker Hts. 216-464-1441, laurelschool.org March 7: 9 a.m.

(18 Early Learners-PreK) March 8: 8:30 a.m.

(Grades K-5) March 9: 8:30 a.m.

(Grades 6-8) March 10: 8:30 a.m.

(Grades 9-12) April 9: 9 a.m.-Noon (All-School Open House) Butler Campus 7420 Fairmount Road, Novelty 216-464-1441, laurelschool.org March 8: 8:30 a.m.

(Grades K-5) April 9: 9 a.m.-Noon (All School Open House)

NEW STORY SCHOOLS 600 West Resource Dr., Independence 888-202-0067, newstoryschools.com/ ohcommunity April 1: 3-5 p.m.

20 | Family Living at Its Best

NOTRE DAMECATHEDRAL LATIN SCHOOL

13000 Auburn Road, Chardon 440-286-6226, ndcl.org April 12: 6-8 p.m.

OLD TRAIL SCHOOL

2315 Ira Road, Bath 330-666-1118, oldtrail.org April 14: 5:30-7 p.m.

(Toddler - 1st Grade)

OPEN DOOR CHRISTIAN SCHOOLS

8287 W. Ridge Road, Elyria 440-322-6386, odcs.org March 24, April 19 & May 12 Call to Schedule visit

OUR LADY OF THE ELMS 1375 W Exchange St., Akron 330-836-9384, theelms.org March 13: Noon

OUR SHEPHERD LUTHERAN SCHOOL

508 Mentor Ave., Painesville 440-357-7776, oslpainesville.org Call to schedule a private tour

SAINT IGNATIUS

Welsh Academy (Grades 6-8) 1944 West 32nd St., Cleveland 216-651-0222, ignatius.edu March 13: 2-4 p.m.

SAINT JOSEPH ACADEMY 3470 Rocky River Dr., Cleveland 216-251-6788, sja1890.org April 7: 6-8 p.m.

SAINT JOSEPH PARISH SCHOOL

1909 Third St., Cuyahoga Falls 330-928-2151, saintjoe.org/tour March 5 & April 9: 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

RSVP Required: saintjoe.org/openhouse

SPRING GARDEN WALDORF SCHOOL

UNIVERSITY SCHOOL Hunting Valley Campus (Grades 9-12) 2785 SOM Center Road, Hunting Valley 216-831-2200, us.edu April 7: 8:30-11 a.m.

Shaker Heights Campus (Junior Kindergarten-Grade 8) 20701 Brantley Road, Shaker Heights 216-321-8260, us.edu April 3: 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

VILLA ANGELAST. JOSEPH HIGH SCHOOL

18491 Lakeshore Blvd., Cleveland 216-481-8414, vasj.com March 9: 6-8 p.m.

1791 S. Jacoby Road, Copley 330-666-0574, sgws.org Private Tours: Contact Amy Hecky at admissions@sgws.org

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

March 2022 - NortheastOhioParent.com

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with disabilities?

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March 2022 munity more National Disability part of THE CHANGE Help us make our com is at Wh ing join GET INVOLVED and BE every ability by s Month? nes inclusive for people of are Aw ation. Need ideas? al Disabilities our month-long celebr National Development cially began in offi : nth out Mo s se nes the are ck Aw Che (DD) nt the President pai us from p Hel tion : ma Day cla ion pro Inclus 1987 with a 2022, to kick s and 7, nes rch are Ma aw on g E brin NG county ORA Reagan to help Since nth and promote people of every ability. for e anc off DD Awareness Mo ept acc e Check out our websit ates, advocacy voc -ad self , ilies fam community inclusion. then, ideas – SummitDD. nty Boards have for downloadables and groups and Ohio’s Cou se opportunities for rea inc org been working to mit Sum Join : Zoo the at But there’s still more Inclusion Day(s) people with disabilities. for some good de. ma be to ss DD and the Akron Zoo progre mention it’s on us?? inclusive fun! Did we Get Started! g orange arin we se tho to free helping people Admission is s We are committed to SummitDD.org/Event ugh meaningful thro ial ent March 5-7, 2022. Visit pot full reach their r help to make you d nee for details we connections, but ast and Awards akf Bre yourself on ask , iati rch rec Ma App lasting progress. This on March 29, as we to make your can you Celebration: Join us all ng doi are if you who continue to g for people of every honor everyday heroes community welcomin our community ge at SummitDD. ssa make a difference in me ability. Send us a

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22 | Family Living at Its Best

PHOTOS COURTESY OF SUMMIT DD

areness Month ntact-Us March is DD Aw org/Co reciation Award

March 2022 - NortheastOhioParent.com

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SOCIAL Safety Pre-teens and teens are no strangers to social media and all its features.

By Georgia Lattas

According to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, 90% of teens ages 13-17 have used social media, and 75% report having at least one active social media profile. Having access to the internet and social media also presents the opportunity to encounter danger online. Eliza McCoy, Executive Director of Outreach, Training and Prevention at the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, explains how parents can help their children safely navigate the internet and social media accounts.

1

Set Healthy Online Boundaries

social media and the parent to have oversight of the account.

Parents and children can then have ongoing conversations According to the Pew Research Center, in a spring 2018 survey, roughly sevenabout what content their child is posting and what content in-ten U.S. teens ages 13 to 17 (72%) said they used Instagram. According to cnbc. their child is seeing. com, in 2021, 63% of Americans between the ages of 12 and 17 used TikTok on a weekly basis. To register for apps such as Instagram and TikTok, users must be at Review safety features within apps least 13 years old.

Because children of all ages are engaging with social me“The age of 13 came about because of early privacy laws about what companies dia platforms, it is important that children and parents spend can track of children’s private information,” McCoy says. “The age of 13 is a consistime reviewing the safety features within tent age for many of the social media apps. I would argue that apps and what privacy settings are offered. we need to really be focusing more on developmentally what’s “Most of the major apps do have safety appropriate for kids, which doesn’t always correspond to a set “There must be centers within their application or on their age. It’s why you'll see some parents deciding to allow their ongoing conversations website that have user guides about what’s children to have access earlier than 13.” available, and what options they may have, McCoy recommends that parents not regard 13 as the perbetween the parent and suggestions particularly for parents,” fect age for all children to register for social media; parents and child ... It must be McCoy says. “Before signing up your child, should instead focus on what is developmentally appropriate I would look at those in the particular app for each child. McCoy compares this to getting a driver’s lian active and ongoing to help guide the decision about whether or cense – just because your child is 16 years old doesn’t mean conversation in which not you’re going to allow them to have that you automatically hand them the car keys. app.”

“There must be ongoing conversations between the parent the parent puts very Children should avoid contact with and child,” McCoy says. “Parents should allow their children realistic appropriate unknown users. Parents should be sure online access and discuss the scenarios that their child enlimits along the way.” to check privacy settings, be aware of any counters online. It must be an active and ongoing conversageolocation elements that may be involved tion in which the parent puts very realistic appropriate limits within the app, and see who is and isn’t alalong the way.” lowed to message your child.

McCoy has a rule in her home that her kids are not allowed to lie about their age “All of these apps do feature updates constantly,” McCoy in order to register for a social media account. says. “It can be overwhelming, even as an adult, to stay aware She says several companies, such as TikTok and Google, now have family-paired of what in-app updates are happening. You have to be an acaccounts designed for users aged 11 to 13, where the child can have the account tive and proactive user.” with limitations and it’s paired with an adult account. This allows the child access to

24 | Family Living at Its Best

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It is important for parents to have conversations with their children and be aware of safety features within apps, such as the “block” button or the “report” button. Typically, the “block” feature means the other user cannot contact or interact with your child in any capacity. The “report” feature typically allows users to report inappropriate behavior or interactions to the app.

3

Be aware of potential predators Parents may teach their children to be fearful of strangers.

However, children will then not be able to identify someone they’ve formed a close relationship with as someone who could be harming them, according to McCoy. Situations are often not as black and white as when a predator messages a child and asks for inappropriate photos. More likely, a child can play a video game and develop a friendship with an online player, and then that person pushes boundaries.

“Kids don’t often identify what is the most important behavior to identify, which is someone who has established rapport with you, and then takes advantage,” she says. “Just changing safety settings isn’t going to keep your kid from being at risk. Yes, the safety settings keep away that stranger who can private-message your child out of nowhere, but it’s not going to keep away individuals that your kid ‘friends’ and then starts a friendship with. That’s why we have to talk to kids about behaviors.”

4

Focus on behaviors of online profiles, not characteristics There are some profiles that may seem illegitimate online, such as profiles with common names such as “Adam Smith,” or long usernames with many numbers, or profiles that don’t have any photos or a profile picture. McCoy says children should focus on behaviors, not characteristics.

“Be careful when there is a scenario where someone is trying to establish rapport with you,” McCoy says. “You may find that everything you say, they agree with. Or they’re asking deeper and deeper questions about your interests, your family, your networks, etc. People who are really intent on victimizing children online know that they’re going to have a kid’s picture or profile picture. They're going to put their school as a school in the same state that you’re in. They're getting around that stuff.”

Just because a user may be from the same state or the same school does not mean they are who they say they are. Be mindful of behaviors coming from these specific users.

Have conversations and communicate with your child about these behaviors. Even if kids are using a variety of online platforms, it’s still good for parents to know what their children are using and whom they are interacting with on a daily basis.

“We know that the average age of victimization for online sexual exploitation is usually between 8 and 14,” McCoy says.

“So we want to be talking to children earlier than that about safe behaviors and dangerous behaviors.”

“Think about the online space in terms of healthy boundaries that you want to set for your kids, and values you want to instill in them,” she adds. “It’s not easy, but I think changing that mindset of parents to think about the online world as just another environment where they’re doing the same type of parenting that’s best in real life. I would say the process of increasing privacy and boundaries as they get older and focusing on ‘What are the values they want their child to uphold in that space?’ just like they would in the real world, is so important.”

Dangers of Social Media Trends It is important to be aware of apps and features that can help a user depict a false reality of their life, leading other users to compare themselves to what they see on the screen. Additionally, social media is a place of creativity and innovation – often leading to new challenges for users to try and perfect. While some challenges are harmless and playful, others can have detrimental effects. Here are a few trending social media challenges:

According to techtimes.com, Facetune and Facetune 2 have been downloaded over 30 million times in 2021. For the original Facetune Facetune app, this is the seventh consecutive year it has appeared in Apple's yearly top five paid apps. Facetune is a photo-editing app that allows users to refine their jawline, erase blemishes, color their hair and more. While some people use Facetune to erase a blemish or two, many content creators have pushed photo-editing to the extreme, transforming their generic image into an illusion of who they really are. Before allowing your child to sign up for social media, assure them that 71% of people edit their selfies before posting them (according to themodems.com).

Walk Challenge

Miami-based rapper Saucy Santana has achieved national stardom after his hit song “Material Girl” blew up on TikTok the last few months. In late 2020, Santana released his song “Walk” and a challenge ensued.

In this challenge, TikTok users strut to the song, usually exiting a pool and wearing a swimsuit. While this challenge may be harmless, many users often compare themselves to the person strutting in the video, and may feel insecure after viewing.

Walk Challenge

TikTok "baggy clothes"

In a new TikTok trend, users caption their post saying people mistake them for being overweight because they wear baggy clothes. Then, the users lift up their baggy sweatshirt to reveal a slimmer physique.

This trend is extremely dangerous for young children, as the trend claims that baggy clothes restrict a person’s physique and are “less desirable” than form-fitting clothes. The trend puts out a negative notion that one must be slimmer under their baggy clothes and reveal a “more desirable” physique once their baggy sweatshirt is lifted.

While your child engages with TikTok content, be sure to monitor the trends they are watching and intaking.

March2022 2022 -- NortheastOhioParent.com NortheastOhioParent.com March

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26 | Family Living at Its Best

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CO

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T UNI Y FO M

M e ntor

BETTER IN MENTOR

Why residents stay in this family-friendly town in Lake County

MEET THE COMMUNITY Why Families Love It

SEASONAL ADVENTURES What’s Happening in City

PARTNERING TOGETHER Better Living for All

March 2022 - NortheastOhioParent.com

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Meet the Lund Ziegler Family

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hen Melissa and Michael Lund Ziegler, director of education at the Fine Arts Association in Willoughby, relocated to Northeast Ohio from Cincinnati a few years ago, they chose to make a home and raise their three children in Mentor.

We talked to the family about their decision to move to the city in Lake County.

WHY MENTOR?

Melissa Lund Ziegler says Mentor’s proximity to parks and beaches (including Headlands Beach, Ohio’s longest natural beach and also a state park), access to the highway, and easy drive to Buffalo (to visit grandparents), plus the music program in Mentor Schools, was attractive. Melissa and her husband, Michael, are both musicians, so the music instruction in the schools was definitely a value to the area.

28 | Family Living at Its Best

AND WHEN THIS FAMILY IS OUT AND ABOUT….

Though the timing wasn’t ideal (the Lund Ziegler family moved to Mentor in spring 2020), they wanted to explore things to do in their new community. From the ice skating arena to the pool to concerts at the Mentor Civic Amphitheater, the family was excited to take advantage of all the recreational resources the city offers.

Adding to the adventures in the great outdoors, Melissa Lund Ziegler is looking forward to storytimes at the library with her children Abigail, 5, Joseph, 3, and William, 1, as things open back up for in-person programs.

In the meantime, this family finds joy everywhere in their community, even at the grocery store! Lund Ziegler said her son takes the responsibility of putting the quarter into the cart at Aldi and taking it out very seriously.

They quickly found a lot they loved about the area, including the weather. With three

Photos Submitted by the Lund Ziegler Family

By Jeannie Fleming-Gifford

young children in tow, the Lund Zieglers say they love making their way through all Lake Metroparks. Some other family favorites?

Penitentiary Glen Reservation and Chagrin River Park (not in Mentor, but great proximity to this young family’s neighborhood). Additionally, this family has enjoyed supporting local farms in and around the Mentor area as they make memories picking strawberries and apples.

Jeannie Fleming-Gifford has a MA in family and consumer sciences with a specialization in child development and is the vice president of programming at Lakeside Chautauqua. Her passions include outdoor adventures, volunteering to raise potential autism service dogs, and writing.

She recently published her first children’s book, “SymFUNNY,” and a memoir called “The Gift I Never Wanted.”

WHY IS MENTOR A GREAT PLACE FOR FAMILIES ?

MENTOR CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS SHARE WHAT THE CITY OFFERS RESIDENTS Mentor has all of the amenities ❝ that you could ask for. There are

a wide variety of options when it comes to shopping, dining, athletic and recreation facilities, and the many ways to enjoy our thriving music and arts community. It’s all about choice. Mentor is also a place that offers a sense of belonging. The people of Mentor take pride in our city and welcome all who want to be a part of our great community.

❞

— Matthew E Donovan, President of Council, Ward 2 Councilperson Mentor as a community ❝ places a strong emphasis on

economic development and the amenities that people want and need on an everyday basis.

❞

— Scott Marn, Vice-President of Council, Councilperson-at-Large

Mentor offers something for ❝ everyone, including great recre-

ational amenities, highly rated safety forces, low taxes, supportive city services, a wide selection of shopping and dining options, and top-rated schools.

❞

— Ray Kirchner, Councilperson-at-Large Mentor is not just a great place ❝ to live, but a fantastic place to live,

with something for everyone. With all the amenities and activities available, nobody can be bored.

With Blackbrook Golf Course, the ice arena, pickleball courts, skate parks, and the newly acquired Mentor Rec Center, you can feed your inner athlete. For quieter times, you have numerous parks to choose from, including Wildwood Cultural Center and the largest lakefront beach in Ohio – Mentor Headlands.

❞

— John Krueger, Ward 4 Councilperson

Mentor Public Library has convenience on ‘lock’

By Jason Lea

Parenting has never been simple, but it’s been spectacularly unpredictable for the last two years. So, Mentor Public Library has added a new service to make it as convenient as possible for all patrons, including parents, to pick up their next book or movie.

The library recently installed hold lockers outside of Mentor High School that are available 24/7. That means no more rushing to beat closing time! The lockers are ideal for busy souls who have no idea when they’ll have free time.

Anyone with a CLEVNET library card can have their holds sent to a locker. All they need to do is pick “Mentor High School lockers” as their pick-up location when putting something on hold either in person or online at mentorpl.org. And the lockers are secure. They can only be opened with a patron’s library-card number.

It’s convenient too. Once your locker’s open, the items are automatically checked out to your card.

Visit mentorpl.org

Patty Perry Talks About the 23rd Annual KidShow at Great Lakes Mall in Mentor The KidShow, held at Great Lakes Mall, is a product of owner and producer Patty Perry of ProMark Enterprises. When creating the event, she wanted a venue that would offer free attendance and plenty of free parking for event guests. We talk to Perry about this event and why it’s been a Mentor staple over the past 23 years.

Q: Why did you decide to host the KidShow in Mentor?

Perry: “As a young parent at the time with our first child, we began to wonder what products and services were available for our new family. It seemed as though all of the parent resources were scattered, and I got to thinking, ‘Wouldn’t it be wonderful if there was a one-stop shop for information and products related to kids?’ As an event planner, I realized quickly that I could be the solution and create an event. Thus the KidShow was born!”

Q: Tell us about the KidShow twoday event on March 26 and 27 at the Great Lakes Mall in Mentor.

Perry: “The KidShow will be on Saturday, March 26 (11 a.m. to 6 p.m.), and Sunday, March 27 (12 p.m. to -5 p.m.). It is built around anything and everything having to do with kids and family. Its purpose is to get good information into busy parents’ hands and to provide a free opportunity to spend time and have fun with your children.”

Q: What type of activities can families expect this year?

Perry: “The KidShow is filled with exhibitors up and down the mall who will be demonstrating products, providing service information and offering activities at their booth. As the show producer, we also provide activities such as ‘The Kids Counter,’ which is a craft center offering every two hours a different creative craft, photos at the Green Screen, a backyard play area, a balloon twister, roaming costumed characters, Snack Attacks for treats four times a day, impromptu stage trivia for prizes, and continuous stage entertainment.”

Q: Why host the event in the City of Mentor?

Perry: “This is our hometown.

We have been members in the residential and business community for the past 33 years.

There is no better place than your own backyard to put on an event for the community. The KidShow draws attendees from all

over Northeast Ohio, with strong support from Mentor and Lake County residents. It works here in Mentor, and the 23-year longevity of the KidShow is evidence of that.”

Q: Is there anything new happening this year at the KidShow?

Perry: “There will be new stage entertainment so make sure you check out the schedule at kidshowinfo.com We plan to have a couple new areas, which include the backyard play area, an area to focus on pets, and an author corner, where we have invited local authors to participate by reading their book and being on hand for attendees to get signed purchased copies. There will be a cookie-decorating contest for local bakers and bakeries to enter, with KidShow guests voting on their favorite designer. The Goody Bag giveaway is not new this year, but the red envelope prize is!

250 goody bags will be given out daily to the first 250 families who register at the Registration Center at the top of the Food Court. One

lucky bag will hold a red envelope with a certificate for a Bounce Party for your child and 15 of his or her friends at the recently opened Eastlake facility, The Jump Yard.

Prior to the KidShow weekend, we are running a contest on Facebook. Like us on Facebook (KidShow) through March 17, and you could be the lucky one to win a KidShow family fun pack! The winner will be picked on March 18 and notified via Facebook.”

Q: Why is it important for families in the community to attend the KidShow?

Perry: “The wealth of resources the KidShow provides is unbelievable. The value to attend is the opportunity to talk with company representatives and get your questions answered. The fun we build into the KidShow creates time to spend with your kids at a free event filled with hours of activities and fun.“

March March 2022 2022 -- NortheastOhioParent.com NortheastOhioParent.com

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Mentor Schools Team Up with Community Partners

School Opportunities in Mentor

THE DISTRICT WORKS WITH LOCAL ORGANIZATIONS TO HELP STUDENTS LEARN BEYOND THE CLASSROOM

There are plenty of ways children can find education in the city to fit their needs. Here are just a few options.

By Kristen Kirby

Andrews Osborne Academy A co-educational boarding and day school for preschool through 12th grade in Willoughby (City next to Mentor). andrewsosborne.org Broadmoor School Students from birth through age 22 years who have developmental disabilities and are residents of Lake County. lakebdd.org/ childrens-services Lake Catholic High School Serves ninth through 12th grades. lakecatholic.org Lake Shore Compact They have 23 different Career Technical Education programs available to Mentor Schools students. lakeshorecompact.org Mentor Christian School Serving ages 4 through 12th grade. mentorchristian.com Mentor United Methodist Preschool Ages 3-4, a parttime preschool and prekindergarten and ages 2.5 with caregiver program. mentorumc.org/preschool St. Gabriel School and St. Gabriel Learning Loft Preschool School Catholic part-time preschool to full time kindergarten through eighth grade.

St-gabrielschool.org St. Mary of the Assumption School Serving preschool through eighth grade. stmarymentorschool.org

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early 7,500 of our community’s children attend Mentor Public Schools each day. The school district operates seven elementary schools, two middle schools, one of the largest high schools in Ohio, a specialized school for students with autism, an online school and preschool programs.

While Mentor Schools has long been known for providing a well-rounded and high-quality education for its students, in recent years, the Mentor team has worked diligently with community partners to expand opportunities for the community’s children in non-traditional ways.

Teaming up with Laketran, and using grant funding, at the beginning of this school year all Mentor High School students were given the chance to sign-up for a bus pass at no cost to them through a new program called Cardinal GO. Students now have access to Laketran’s local routes one through nine, which greatly improves access to campus, internships, activities, local resources, after school jobs, Lakeland Community College and more.

Cardinal GO is already benefiting many students by removing a transportation barrier and creating a reliable way for students to get from point A to point B using public transit instead of relying solely on their parents.

Connecting with Cardinal Credit Union, Mentor High School is now operating a bank branch right inside Mentor High School. This is a great opportunity for some of the business students to experience real-world, hands-on learning by working side-by-side with professionals from Cardinal Credit Union. Students are learning an array of important skill sets through their work running the branch. This

initiative also benefits all students by providing learning tools about personal finance and students can even open up their own checking account. The partnership also expands into the classrooms with a series of lessons being shared in economics class for students. The local roots of these lessons are especially valuable because they can be tailored to meet current needs of our community and adjusted as the industry can change and evolve quickly Ohio Treasurer Robert Sprague, made a special visit to Mentor to learn more about the program earlier this school year.

Another longtime partnership that continues to grow for the greater good of the community is between Mentor Public Schools and Mentor Public Library.

For several years now, the library has opened the high school’s freshly (grant-funded) renovated media center, called The Hub, to the public by operating it as a branch location on weeknights.

This includes giving the community access to a state-of-the-art makerspace and a lineup of fun activities for people of all ages. T This year, the partnership expanded to give all students library cards. Opting in for a library card is a parental choice for each child, but one that’s been made easy and convenient with a click of a button. Having a library card opens a plethora of resources for children and their families.

While these are small example of newly launched community initiatives within the public school system, all of the partnerships and support are vital to the success of Mentor Public Schools. These partnerships include everyone from parents and neighbors to empty-nesters and senior citizens to the safety forces and community leaders to local businesses and organizations and beyond. These partnerships are helping to shape the next generation through the various roles of influencing the community’s youth. Mentor Schools remains committed to continuing to cultivate and nurture strong community partnerships to provide the best opportunities for all.

Visit mentorschools.net for more info.

March 2022 - NortheastOhioParent.com

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MENTOR’S

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By Georgia Lattas

IF YOU ARE LOOKING TO SPEND TIME IN MENTOR, THERE ARE PLENTY OF FAMILY-FRIENDLY PLACES TO VISIT. HERE ARE 10 DESTINATIONS TO TRY:

REYNOLDS ROAD AND MENTOR AVE. RESTAURANTS

There’s an abundance of restaurants in the city for every palate from Quaker Steak and Lube, (Reynolds Road), Melt Bar and Grill (Mentor Ave.), BJ’s Restaurant and Brewery (Mentor Ave.), Mission BBQ (Reynolds Road), Smokey Bones (Reynolds Road), and Don Tequila (Mentor Ave.), to just name a few. Visit cityofmentor.com for more options beyond these streets.

FROYO TWIST SOFT SERVE & BUBBLE TEA

Mix and match any combination of frozen yogurt flavors and 60+ topping selections exactly to your liking. They also offer pineapple dole whip, soft serve gelato, frozen custard, smoothies and bubble tea. myfroyotwist.com

MENTOR LAGOONS NATURE PRESERVE & MARINA

Located on the shores of Lake Erie with multiple hiking and biking trails giving views to the

Mentor Marsh, marina, shoreline, and rare dune plants.

The property encompasses 450 acres and includes a 230-acre nature preserve with rare dune plants, a riverine marsh and oak bluff. The marina can accommodate up to 500 boats. cityofmentor.com

JAMES A. GARFIELD NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE

The site preserves the Lawnfield estate and surrounding property of James Abram Garfield, the 20th president of the United States, and includes the first presidential library established in the United States. nps.gov/jaga

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Great Lakes Mall has lots of shopping and food options, a Planet Fitness, Round 1 Bowling, Cleveland Clinic Children’s Play Area, which is a newly renovated indoor kids’ space area, events and more family-friendly fun. shopgreatlakesmall.com

ESCAPE IN MENTOR

HEADLANDS BEACH STATE PARK

Headlands Beach State Park is a public beach in Mentor and the longest natural beach in Ohio. It attracts 2 million visitors annually. The park features a 35-acre beach for sunbathing and swimming, along with picnicking facilities and a seasonal concessionaire. ohiodnr.gov

GREAT LAKES MALL

Escape Room in Mentor (7468 Tyler Blvd., escaperoomclev.com/ecape-room-mentor/) and Escapology.

(7300 Palisades Pkwy, escapology.com/en/mentor-oh), provide opportunities for family-friendly groups to solve mysteries within the rooms.

BOOKS, ART AND MORE!

For book lovers, there’s Barnes and Noble (barnesandnoble.com) with a Starbucks cafe to grab a treat or sit down for a chat with friends. For those interested in the arts, Busy Bee Pottery in Mentor provides families and parents with opportunities to create art. (mentor.busybeesart.com).

Nearby, enjoy theater and arts at The Fine Arts Association in Willoughby on Mentor Ave. (fineartsassociation.org)

WONDER CLEVELAND IN GREAT LAKES MALL

Crumbl Cookies is a popular national cookie chain known for their cute pink boxes, their popularity on TikTok (3.5 million TikTok followers), and their weekly rotating menu (new cookie flavors every week). None of the flavors remain the same each week besides two flavors. crumblcookies.com/ohmentor

PHOTOS BY CITY OF MENTOR, WONDER CLEVELAND, PATTY PERRY. PROMARK ENTERPRISES.

PHOTOS: Mentor Lagoons Nature Preserve & Marina, Headlands BeachFest State Park, Annual KidShow at Great Lakes Mall, Wonder Museum in Great Lakes Mall.

The Cleveland-themed museum now includes 16 full sensory-interactive art exhibits. It invites guests to explore, touch, climb, solve.

This experiential museum is at the Great Lakes Mall in Mentor. For tickets, info wondercleveland.com

CRUMBL COOKIES

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Mentor’s Seasons of

(Adventure]

By The Mentor Parks, Recreation & Public Facilities Department

M

entor Parks and Recreation offers more than 1,200 ways for families to play each year. From art workshops, fitness classes, trips, day camps, golf instruction, kayaking tours, nature walks and hockey leagues, the department offers something for everyone. One of the best things about living in Mentor is the wealth of recreational opportunities and facilities available to the community. Mentor is home to 14 parks, as well as the Mentor Marsh State Nature Preserve.

Explore a new experience, which is always just around the corner. Here are some happenings over the seasons you won’t want to miss.

(Spring] Black Brook Golf Course, a beautiful 18-hole public course, opened in 1929 and has been owned and operated by the City of Mentor since 2005. The course has been steadily upgraded with major improvements, including a state-of-the-art practice facility, new tees, extensive drainage, and more.

Whether you would like to play the course or just practice, come out and give us a try.

The course offers golf schools, private lessons and a Junior Golf League serving more TOP FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: Mentor Recreation Summer Day Camp and snowy fun at Mentor Chill Out. BELOW: Performances at Mentor Amphitheater and take a Golf Cart Ride on Mysteries of the Manor Trail.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF CITY OF MENTOR.

34 | Family Living at Its Best

than 100 young golfers each summer. Black Brook offers a variety of leagues for men, women, coed, couples and juniors.

Wildwood Micro Con at Wildwood Cultural Center will host Micro Con on Saturday, March 26, from 11 a.m.

– 5 p.m. This multi-genre entertainment and comic micro convention has a lot to offer. This micro con is tightly packed with appearances from various pop culture movies, shows and books. Local comic and gaming vendors, kids and adult activities, costume contests, music, strolling magic, food for purchase, and much more.

Just Kids’ Stuff Garage Sale. The city’s Just Kids Garage Sale will be Thursday, May 12, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. at Garfield Park Pavilion.

Clean out the toy boxes, closets, and attics, and get ready for the Just Kids’ Stuff Garage Sale. A sale of children’s items often featuring more than 70 vendors and more than 1,000 buyers. Reserve a city-owned table beginning April 4 for residents and April 5 for nonresidents.

(Summer]

Come splash around in the Civic Center Pool, (8600 Munson Road) at Mentor’s premier water facility, Civic Center Waterpark, features a heated Olympic-sized outdoor swimming pool, zero-depth entry, wireless internet access, snack bar, and bathhouse with restrooms and changing facilities.

Shop local at Mentor Farmers Market, held on Fridays from 2 – 6 p.m. at Eleanor B. Garfield Park from mid-June through September. At the market, enjoy an afternoon under century-old shade trees while you shop for delicious fresh-picked fruits and vegetables, specialty baked goods, plant starts, honey, maple products and other farm-related products.

Headlands BeachFest returns to the Headlands Beach State Park on Saturday, July 16, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. The “ultimate beach party” features all-day entertainment, hands-on activities, food trucks, arts and crafts vendors, and is highlighted by the Ohio Master Sand Sculpting Competition, featuring three world champion sand sculptors who will build their larger-than-life creations over three days. Kids of all ages will have plenty of opportunities to get their hands dirty as well by competing in the Family Sandcastle Building Contest. Nearly a dozen food trucks will be offering everything from wood-fired pizza to kettle corn. Arts and crafts vendors will be selling a variety of beach-themed items.

]

Mentor CityFest, presented by University Hospitals, returns to Mentor Civic Center Park on Friday, August 19, from 4 to 11 p.m. and Saturday, August 20, from noon to 11 p.m. This two-day family-friendly festival is packed with activities, games, food and more. Enjoy live music on the Mentor Civic Amphitheater stage Friday and Saturday evenings. The CityFest Kids Zone is bigger and better than before, with giant inflatables and interactive games for kids of all ages.

Enjoy all-day interactive entertainment and activities, including strolling performers, the “Fest Money” game, plus community-sponsored activities and games. With over 20 food vendors, we will have every type of festival food your tastebuds desire. The Mentor CityFest Parade will kick off from Shore Middle School Saturday at 10 a.m. and make its way to the festival grounds via Hopkins, Center Street and Civic Center Boulevard. The parade typically features over 100 groups For those trailblazers looking for a colorful thrill, register for CityFest Color Dash & Walk on Saturday night starting at 6 p.m. This 2.5-mile run and fun walk starts and finishes at CityFest.

(Fall] Wildwood Cultural Center & Park is Mentor’s finest cultural gem. The estate and manor house were built by the John G. Oliver family in 1908 and purchased by the City of Mentor in 1980, giving us the beautiful Wildwood Cultural Center. The cultural center was placed on the National Register of Historic Homes in 1981. Wildwood Cultural Center is a wonderful site for weddings, seminars, business functions, parties and showers. The 34-acre estate, filled with stately trees and

beautiful gardens, includes hiking trails, barrier-free restrooms, picnic and wildlife area.

A hayride event celebrates fall at Wildwood’s one-of-a-kind Golf Cart Hayride. Cozy up with your family in a golf cart as you view the sights and sounds of the Mysteries of the Manor Trail. Families are invited to also enjoy games, pumpkin decorating, hay pyramid, dancing, glowsticks, bonfire or visit the indoor Wildwood O’ Gauge train display in the Craft Room, food for purchase and more.

(Winter] Slide on into the coolest place in town at the Mentor Ice Arena, which is open year-round and offers something for everyone who enjoys skating. Whether you’re planning a tournament, hosting a party, or just want to chill out, the Mentor Ice Arena is ready to welcome you.

Mentor Chill Out! This winter-themed event features all-day attractions and activities including wagon rides, ice sculpting demonstrations, popsicle-eating contests, ice skating on an outdoor skating rink, snow-

man-building competitions, sled riding and much more. Ice sculptures will be on display throughout the amphitheater grounds in addition to several sculptures created onsite as guests view the ice artists at work. Come hungry and take part in the Chili Cook Off, or partake in some delicious fare from some of the area’s favorite food trucks.

Those 21-and-over can slide over to the whiskey-tasting bar and experience a selection of bourbons, ryes, and vodkas. Festivities will be capped off by a fabulous fireworks show.

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MENTOR

Businesses and Organizations Special Advertiser Listings CARDINAL CREDIT UNION

Organized in 1953, Cardinal Credit Union has been providing financial services to employees of various companies and organizations in the Mentor/Cleveland area for more than half a century. Cardinal members always have a financial counselor in their corner to help make sound financial decisions. Visit cardinalcu.com to apply for Instant Membership in three simple steps and learn more about the ways we support you.

HUNTINGTON LEARNING CENTER OF MENTOR

A brighter future begins at Huntington Learning Center! For over 40 years, they have tailored their tutoring programs to fit each student’s unique needs. Their method begins with a full academic evaluation to develop a personalized program that builds skills, confidence, and motivation. Be it kindergarten through 12th subject tutoring or ACT/SAT test prep, we can help your student thrive and reach their academic goals. Locations in Mentor (440-205-8283) and Mayfield Heights (440-683-1784) or visit huntingtonhelps.com

THE INDIAN MUSEUM OF LAKE COUNTY

See prehistoric Native American items from 12,000 B.C. to 1650 A.D. Many local historic items are from all of North America. Try the hands-on activities. Visit the Indian Museum at 7519

36 | Family Living at Its Best

Mentor Ave., Suite A112, lower level in the back.

Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays and 1 to 4 p.m. on weekends. Cost: Adults, $4.00; Seniors, $3.00; K-12 Students, $2.00; Preschool, free.

Organized groups need reservations. Special programs available. Phone: 440 951-3813. indianmuseumoflakecounty.org

KARATE INSTITUTE OF MENTOR

Karate Institute of Mentor is a family-oriented school where children and adults gain the amazing benefits of martial arts at their own pace. Children develop solid character through traditional values, while gaining a sense of achievement through learning practical self-defense and anti-bullying skills. Become Stronger outside and in with their fun, supportive classes. Karate Institute of Mentor 7667 Mentor Avenue, Ste. 102. 440-951-0463, mentorkarate.com

LAKE SHORE COMPACT

The Lake Shore Compact is a career technical education consortium serving the Euclid, Mentor and Wickliffe school systems. Our primary objective is to help prepare students to become career ready and college prepared! Students have the opportunity to participate in over 23 unique programs, and over 800 students participate in some form of career technical education supported by Lake Shore Compact. Visit lakeshorecompact.org to learn more.

LAKETRAN

More and more high school students are relying on Laketran to get where they need to go. Mentor Public Schools, Wickliffe City Schools, and Painesville Local Schools have recently collaborated with Laketran to offer free transportation on Local Route 1-9 with the goal to improve access to after-school jobs, internships, activities and local resources.

Students can register at their school’s main office or contact Laketran, Lake County’s public transit agency, at 440-350-1008.

WALKER ROOFING & CONSTRUCTION, LLC

If you’ve been looking for a roofing company in Mentor, you already know you have a lot of options. It can be difficult to decide which one is best for you. That’s why it’s important to consider all the details before making a final decision. They’re confident that Walker Roofing & Construction LLC is the right roofing contractor for you, but don’t just take our word for it. They are: Experienced-the founder has over twenty years of industry experience as a general contractor and an insurance adjuster Versatile-they handle both residential and commercial roofing projects, from leaf guard installation to complete roof replacement Customer-oriented-they put you first, offering free roof evaluations and always returning phone calls. Visit walkerroofingandconstruction.com

SUMMER CAMPS and PROGRAMS Guide ADRENALINE MONKEY Adrenalinemonkeyfun.com

AKRON ARTWORKS

Akron ArtWorks, family-owned art studio, offers fine art instruction for children, teenagers, and adults. This summer we are offering half day and full day art themed camps. Need extended care? - they have that too. Camp themes include painting, 3D sculpture, Upcycling, fantasy, and art exploration. The studio’s teaching philosophy emphasizes the artistic process, teaching students to focus on exploration and skill development, so that the final product can be a true expression of their unique point of view. akronartworks.com

AKRON ROTARY CAMP

Akron Rotary Camp is a place where disabilities and limits do not hold our campers back from enjoying programs that develop their self-confidence, independence and social skills. We offer nine weeks of summer programs (day and overnight), where campers can participate in traditional camp activities such as swimming, kayaking, campfires, songs, crafts, zip-lining, and more. Register today at gotcamp.org

BECK CENTER FOR THE ARTS

Beck Center offers classes at the Lakewood campus in dance, theater, visual arts, private music lessons, and group lessons. Students of all ages and abilities learn as they create unique works of art, discover hidden talents, and have loads of fun with new friends. They have something for every interest in visual and performing arts, and every skill level. Looking for entertainment? Beck Center is producing the hilarious musical comedy, fun for all, Something Rotten! Please call 216-521-2540 x10 or visit beckcenter.org for more details today.

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SUMMER CAMPS and PROGRAMS Guide CAMP ASBURY

For 65 years, Camp Asbury has been forming faith and connecting people to nature through small-group camping. Resident camp is available for kids in 1st through 12th grade, June 19-July 29. Summer 2022 explores how God speaks to us through creation! We’re following current Covid-19 protocols to keep campers and staff safe and healthy. Register online for one-week sessions at eocsummercamps.org This ministry of the United Methodist Church welcomes all. Learn more at 330-569-3171 or campasbury.org.

CAMP CARL

As one of Ohio’s leading Christian camps, each summer Camp Carl provides 2,200+ children and students with the opportunity to discover their God-given purpose and potential, experience incredible adventures, foster relationships that could last a lifetime, and not just hear the Gospel but experience the Gospel through their staff.

They hire thoroughly trained college students so that your camper will be surrounded by the finest young Christian role models that colleges around the country have to campcarl.life

CAMP CURIOSITY: SUMMER SCIENCE CAMPS GREAT LAKES SCIENCE CENTER greatscience.com

CAMP FITCH campfitchymca.org

CAMP GILMOUR

Camp Gilmour is back and safer than ever, with a variety of STEM- and arts-focused camps. Try fun with drones, CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, Cleveland Ballet dance intensive, technical theatre, digital photography and more. These specialty camps are in addition to preschool camp (ages 3-5), day camp (5-12) and sports camps. Optional complimentary enrichment offered each morning for day campers.

Before/after care available 7:15 a.m.-6 p.m.

Camps offered June 7-August 6. gilmour. org/campus-life/camp-programs.

CAMP HO MITA KODA camphomitakoda.org

CAMP INVENTION

Unlock your child’s potential at Camp Invention. This inspiring experience has received rave reviews from campers, parents and teachers, and now it’s returning with an all-new program, Explore.

Children in kindergarten through 6th grade will team up with friends for fun, hands-on STEM adventures, from adopting a robotic fish to exploring space to building robotic artists and marble arcades. Each activity sparks creativity and builds confidence.

Secure your spot at invent.org/local

CAMP JCC IN AKRON

June 6-Aug 12. Different weekly experiences allow campers to discover new hobbies and explore favorite interests.

Specialty camp offerings include a variety of sports, creative arts, STEM and (new this year!) their pre-teen experience. Whether you choose a Specialty or Traditional Camp, all campers attend from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. daily (aftercare available). Daily activities include swimming, art, and games. Available for kids in K through 8th grade. Learn more and register at shawjcc.org/camp-j

CENTER STAGE DANCE STUDIO centerstageohio.com

CHALLENGE ISLAND

Set sail for a fantastic adventure with Challenge Island®! Challenge Island is a one-of-a-kind S.T.E.A.M. (science, technology, engineering, art and math) program full of hands-on fun.

Children embark on a unique “island” adventure, where they complete STEM/STEAM challenges using only the materials in their treasure chest and their own creativity to build structures, create games and more.

The wide variety of pop-culture camp themes include wizardry, slime, arcade games, space and travel. Learn more at challenge-island.com/neo - CONTINUED ON PAGE 40 -

38 | Family Living at Its Best

CLEVELAND STATE UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF FILM & MEDIA ARTS

ODYSSEY PROGRAM FILMMAKING SUMMER CAMPS FOR TEENS LEARN ACTING, DIRECTING, CINEMATOGRAPHY, EDITING, PRODUCING, SCREENWRITING, AND MORE FROM THE STUDENTS AND FACULTY AT THE SCHOOL OF FILM & MEDIA ARTS! • Create your own original films using professional equipment in our sound stages and Mac editing labs • Four sessions for ages 13–18 • 1 week and 3-week camps • Residential and day camp options — Choose to commute or stay in CSU dorms!

MAKE FRIENDS AND GAIN SKILLS FOR LIFE! Odyssey Program Experiential Three Week Summer Camp || June 13 – July 1, 2022 Odyssey Intensive: Acting and Directing || July 11 – July 17, 2022 Odyssey Intensive: Documentary Production || July 18 – July 24, 2022 Odyssey Intensive: Screenwriting || July 25 – July 31, 2022

ALSO AVAILABLE: ONE-DAY SKILL BUILDING WORKSHOPS IN SPRING 2022!

For more information or to register, please contact the program coordinator by phone 216.687.5087, email odyssey@csuohio.edu, or visit csufilmodyssey.com.

CSUFILMODYSSEY.COM March 2022 - NortheastOhioParent.com

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SUMMER CAMPS and PROGRAMS Guide CLEVELAND METROPARKS

Cleveland Metroparks Summer Nature Camps connect children with the natural world. From hikes in the woods, kayaking, crafts and games, a variety of Summer Nature Camps offer compelling outdoor adventures. Cleveland Metroparks Zoo Summer Day Camps connect campers with wildlife and inspire the next generation of conservationists. Campers can spend their summer days at the zoo, participating in special activities like giraffe feeding, carousel rides, educational games and crafts. Cleveland Metroparks Golf Junior Day Camps offer activities and instruction for junior golfers of several ages and skill levels.

Learn more at clevelandmetroparks.com/camps

CORNERSTONE OF HOPE

Cornerstone of Hope offers two camps for grieving children and teens, where they will participate in age-appropriate grief activities led by professionals, play fun, high-energy games and experience challenging activities in a safe environment.

Campers are encouraged to explore their grief, learn essential coping skills, and make friends with peers who are also grieving.

Camp Cornerstone (ages 6-12): July 11-15.

Camp Erin (ages 8-17): Aug. 5-7. cornerstoneofhope.org/cleveland

CREATIVE PLAYROOMS

Get Creative for Summer Camp!

Summer’s coming, which means longer days, fun in the sun and great friends! Join the “Voyagers” at Creative Playrooms Montessori and Child Care Centers for the best summer ever—full of adventure, imagination and engagement to keep campers ages 5 through 12 busy and active. Themed activities and programs and explorations around famous people, places and things.

They believe in encouraging children to explore more deeply through doing, asking questions, and having a great time. Join them this summer as they heat up the fun factor: Save your space today. creativeplayrooms.com or 440-349-9111

CUYAHOGA COMMUNITY COLLEGE tri-c.edu/summercamps

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SUMMER CAMPS and PROGRAMS Guide ETIQUETTE KINDNESS SPECIALITY CAMPS

This summer at Beachwood Recreation, Gilmour Academy, Orange Continuing Ed and Westlake Recreation, young ladies and young men will get expert training from etiquette guru Catherine Holloway, who has been teaching Clevelanders the ins and outs

FAIRMOUNT EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER of social graces since 1994. Participants will work on their confidence and character-building. Learn the tricks of first impressions, become a dining expert and discover the art of a well-written thank-you note, plus many more skills. Registration is handled through each recreation center’s website; please verify for their dates for the etiquette summer camp. Looking forward to meeting your family members.

beachwoodschools.org/SummerCamp. aspx

FALCON CAMP

Recognized throughout the Midwest as Ohio’s premier summer camp since 1959, Falcon offers a beautiful lakefront setting; talented, experienced staff; and a wide variety of activities. Campers choose their own schedules within the general framework. Most of all, it’s great fun! Special introductory camp for ages 6-10. ACA accredited. At Falcon, good things happen by design. 800-837-CAMP, falconcamp.com

FORMAN SCHOOL

Forman School offers a four-week, co-ed boarding and day program for students entering grades 7-11 who would benefit from the individualized approach to learning. Students discover their learning styles, self-advocacy, research-proven strategies, and executive function skills. Afternoon activities include jewelry making, boat building, athletics, ropes course, theater, horseback riding, fishing, and more! For over 80 years, Forman has focused exclusively on teaching students with learning differences while building specific skills and strategies for success. 860-567-1808, formanschool.org

42 | Family Living at Its Best

THE FOUNDRY

Foundry summer camp is a fun and hands-on introduction to rowing or sailing for anyone and everyone. With the Cuyahoga River and Lake Erie as your playground, explore the opportunities for being active, finding your balance, working as a team, and discovering new hobbies with the water. Summer water exploration is for everyone - let us show you how! clevelandfoundry.org

GEAUGA PARK DISTRICT bit.ly/gpdcamps

GIRL SCOUTS OF NORTH EAST OHIO

Summer is just around the corner, and it’s time to start planning your girl’s next big adventure. The best part is, all girls are welcome — no Girl Scout experience necessary. Girl Scouts are a force of nature. They were meant for outdoor adventures. Your girl is ready to rediscover the world, to disconnect from technology, and embrace the freedom of the woods, the sky, and water. For more information visit gsneo.org/camplife or call Customer Care at 800-852-4474.

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SUMMER CAMPS and PROGRAMS Guide HAWKEN SCHOOL

Hawken Summer Programs offer a variety of activities led by experienced professionals for boys and girls ages 4-18.

Camps run between June and August, and offerings include Day Camps, Passport Camps, Athletics Camps, and Summer Studies. These opportunities enable children to develop existing passions and discover new ones; they also provide exposure to new people and new skills, which helps build self-esteem, independence, and confidence. For more information, email summerprograms@hawken.edu, call 440-423-2940, or visit summer.hawken.edu. Please note: COVID-19 protocols will be determined as we get closer to camp dates.

HOLDEN FORESTS & GARDENS holdenfg.org

J-DAY CAMPS

mandeljcc.org/daycamps

JULIE BILLIART SCHOOLS juliebilliartschool.org

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SUMMER CAMPS and PROGRAMS Guide LAKE ERIE NATURE & SCIENCE CENTER lensc.org/summer-camps

LAKE RIDGE ACADEMY lakeridgeacademy.org/summer

THE LITTLE GYM OF SHAKER HEIGHTS

Flexibility at The Little Gym’s Summer Camp will make you flip. Rain or shine, The Little Gym of Shaker Heights offers a summer full of fun and excitement. Your child will participate in gymnastics, imaginative play and build friendships.

Parents love their flexible schedule. Choose the days and weeks that work for you. Half- and full-day options available Monday through Friday, June 13 through August 26 for ages 3-9. Call 216-752-9049 or visit tlgshakerheightsoh.com

LORAIN COUNTY METRO PARKS

Lorain County Metro Parks offers summer camps for kids in pre-kindergarten through 12th grade.

Camps include a wide variety of activities to promote learning, recreation, and FUN outdoors!

Camp registration is open now at loraincountymetroparks.com/summer-camps or by calling 800-LCM-PARK. Pricing ranges from free up to $200 per camper for more extensive camps. Camp activities include sports, survival training, theatre, boating, and so much more!

Grab your child’s spot today! Questions may be sent to pr@loraincountymetroparks.com - CONTINUED ON PAGE 52 -

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 DAY

Northeast Ohio Camp and Summer Programs

CAMP FINDER

Camp name

Location

Phone

Website

Founded

Description

Ages Served

Religious, Cultural or HealthRelated Affiliation

Akron Zoo Camp

Akron, Ohio

330-375-2550

akronzoo.org

NA

ZooCamp is a great way for children ages 6-16 to learn about zoo animals, animal behaviors and wildlife in general. Plus, check out our camp for families, ages 3 and older.

Ages 6-16

No

Beaumont Summer Enrichment and Athletic Camps

Cleveland Heights, Ohio

216-321-2954

beaumontschool.org

NA

Summer camp focused on art, culinary and STEM.

Grades 5-8, girls

Catholic

Camp Carl

Ravenna, Ohio

330-315-5665

campcarl.life

1964

We offer a day camp for campers entering first through fifth grade. Campers will swim, ride horses, go on a creek walk, take a speed boat ride, make crafts and learn about Jesus.

Program runs Monday through Thursday.

Entering grades 1-5

Christian

Camp Country Day

Canton, Ohio

330-453-8279

cantoncountryday.org/ events

NA

Camp Country Day provides experiences that allow children to explore technology, athletics, nature and arts in a non-competitive atmosphere. Contact camp@cantoncountryday.org for more information.

Ages 3 through entering grade 6

NA

Camp I.D.E.A.S.

Lorain, Ohio

440-258-9090

campideas.wix.com/ camp-ideas

1998

Camp serves children on IEPs attending school in Lorain County

3-15 working at an elementary level

NA

Camp JCC

Akron, Ohio

330-835-0064

shawjcc.org/camp-j

NA

Different weekly experiences allow campers to discover new hobbies and explore favorite interests! Specialty camp offerings include a variety of sports, creative arts, STEM, and our Pre-Teen Camp.

Grades K-8

Based on Jewish Values

Choristers' World Music Camp

Oberlin, Ohio

440-774-4079

ochoristers.org

1990

Music of the Pacific Islands. Choristers’ music professionals will feature songs, instruments, games, cultural study, crafts, and food of the islands! Register today at ochoristers.org.

Grades K-8

None

Classroom Antics

Various Locations across Northeast Ohio

800-595-3776

classroomantics.com/

2007

STEAM summer camps for kids ages 7-13 in video game design, robotics, coding, animation, and video production. Run by local teachers with small class sizes that are close to home.

Ages 7-13

None

Code Ninjas Avon Summer Camps

Avon, Ohio

440-834-2749

codeninjas.com/oh-avon/ camps#form

2019

Transform your child’s love for technology into an exciting learning adventure. Guided by our team of Code Senseis, Code Ninjas Camps empower kids to gain valuable tech skills and make new friends.

Ages 5-15

None

Cuyahoga Valley Christian Academy

Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio

1968

CVCA offers summer camps for children ages 7-16. Led

by CVCA coaches and varsity athletes, campers enjoy learning new skills and making friends in a Christ-centered environment.

Ages 7-16

Christian (interdenominational)

Dance All Summer Long — Cleveland City Dance

Ages 3-22

None

No

330-929-0575

cvcaroyals.org

Cleveland, Ohio

216-295-2222

www.clevelandcitydance. com

1963

Grow confidence, camaraderie, community and technique for all ages. Two-hour magical-themed camps for ages 3-8, and all day camps for ages 9 and older including ballet, jazz, musical theater and more.

Fairmount Center for the Arts

Novelty, Ohio

440-338-3171

fairmountcenter.org

1971

ARTS CAMPS! Fairmount’s half and full day programs provide children ages 3 and older the opportunity to dance, sing, create, act and have fun.

Ages 3 and older

Fit by Five Summer Camp

Westlake, Ohio

440-835-8558

fitbyfive.com

1969

Seven different age bracketed classes (ages 2 - 7). Sports & gymnastics, arts & crafts, academics, activity-based theme weeks and lots of outdoor fun on four private acres!

Ages 2 - 7

Goldenrod Montessori Summer Camp

Cleveland, Ohio

216-200-6931

Goldenrodmontessori.org

2020

We are offering a series of camps led by local artists and staff.

Gardening, art, music, dance and STEAM.

Ages 3-8

Hathaway Brown Summer Camp

Shaker Heights, Ohio

216-924-4214

HB.edu/Summer

NA

Hathaway Brown offers camps for boys and girls, toddlers through college. Register for academic, athletics, adventure, and specialty camps to have the best summer ever.

Toddler through College

48 Family Living Living at at Its Its Best Best 48 || Family

Multicultural Diversity

♫⚛

Exploring day camp options for summer 2022?

 H

We’ve got you covered with the Northeast Ohio Parent Day Damp Finder! Use this grid to compare your options side by side. Check back in future issues for details about Sports Camps (April) and Academic Camps (May). To have your camp listed in future Northeast Ohio Parent Camp Finders, please contact Brad Mitchell at brad@northeastohioparent.com.

H

H

Genders Served

Cost Per Week ($)

Offers Financial Aid

Virtual Option

Early-Bird Sign-Up Deadline

Session Length

Specializes in Special Needs

Co-Ed

$140$225

No

No

NA

Daily, Weekly

No

No

No

4/15/22

Weekly, Varies

NA

Girls Only

Hours

Offers Before/ After Care

Provides Meals

ACA Accredited

Half day: 9 a.m. - Noon; Full day: 9 a.m. 4 p.m.

Yes

None

No

No

No

Snack

No

Weekly

No

No

Lunch, Snack

No

Weekly

No

No

Lunch, Snack

No

Co-Ed

$250.00

Yes

No

Co-Ed

$180.00

No

No

Co-Ed

$50 for 4 weeks

Yes

No

5/2/22

Daily

No

9:30 a.m. 2:30 p.m.

No

Lunch, Snack

No

Co-Ed

Starting at $240/Week

Yes

No

2/17/22

Weekly

No

8 a.m.3 p.m.

No

Lunch, Snack

No

Co-Ed

$175 full day, $100 half day

Yes

No

6/1/22

Daily

No

9 a.m. - 12 p.m., or 9 a.m.- 4 p.m.

No

None

No

Co-Ed

$259

Yes

No

Weekly

No

9 a.m.-12 p.m. and 1-4 p.m.

No

None

No

Co-Ed

$229$458

No

No

Weekly

No

8:3011:30 a.m. and 12:303:30 p.m.

No

None

No

Co-Ed

$90$250

No

No

Daily, Weekly

No

Varies

No

None

No

Co-Ed

Varies based on Camp

No

Yes

Daily Weekly Monthly Varies

No

Varies from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

No

None

No

Co-Ed

$125-$200

Yes

Yes

Daily Weekly Varies

No

8:30 a.m. 4 p.m.

No

None

No

Co-Ed

Varies

No

No

Weekly Monthy

No

NR

Snack

No

Co-Ed

$115

Yes

No

Biweekly

No

Yes

None

No

No

Yes

Weekly/ Varies

Yes

Co-Ed

5/1/22

8:30 a.m. 1 p.m.

No

Sponsored by:

Silver Sponsors:

No NR = NOT REPORTED

March March2022 2022 -- NortheastOhioParent.com NortheastOhioParent.com

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Northeast Ohio Camp and Summer Programs

CAMP FINDER

Camp name

Location

Phone

Website

Founded

Description

Ages Served

Hawken Summer Programs

Lyndhurst, Ohio

440-423-2930

summer.hawken.edu

NA

Hawken Summer Programs offer a variety of activities for boys and girls ages 4-18. Camp offerings include Day Camps, Passport Camps, Athletics Camps and Summer Studies.

Ages 4-18

5-12 (children age 5 must be entering kindergarten in the fall).

Religious, Cultural or HealthRelated Affiliation

CAMP FINDER

Hiram House Camp

Moreland Hills, Ohio

216-831-5045

hiramhousecamp.org

1896

Hiram House offers Summer Day Camp Mon-Fri, 9 a.m.4 p.m. Our campers will participate in a variety of outdoor activities such as swimming, hiking, horseback riding, climbing wall, ropes courses, and more.

Ivy Camps USA

Aspen, Colo.

970-557-5155

ivycampsusa.com

NA

Ivy Camps USA provides live, online summer camps for students around the world to learn together. Our camps cover topics such as STEM, public speaking, business, and more!

Ages 6-14

J-Day Camps and Performing Arts Camp

Beachwood, Ohio

216-831-0700

NA

J-Day Camps is more than a place it’s a feeling. It’s a place to find your fun, adventure, friends & passion. We are athletics, creative arts, horseback riding, lake fun, performing arts & lots more.

Grades K-8

K.I.D. Camp, Magical Theatre Company

Barberton, Ohio

330-848-3708

magicaltheatre.org

1972

Singing! Dancing! Acting! Professional instruction builds these skills so campers can rehearse and perform an original musical theatre production. It’s drama without trauma!

Ages 7 - 17

Orange Community Education & Recreation Camps

Pepper Pike, Ohio

216-831-8601

orangerec.ce.eleyo.com

NA

Baking, Star Wars, Minions, Master Crafters, Karate, hip, hop, superheroes, animals, etiquette camp, fencing, Hogwarts Summer Camp, "I Dream of Disney" Camp and Snapology.

Grades K-5

Old Trail School Summer Camp

Akron, Ohio

330-666-1118

NA

2022's summer programs will run for nine weeks, running from June 6 - August 5. We offer an exciting array of camps for every interest located right in the heart of the Cuyahoga Valley National Park.

Ages 3-14

Perspectives Academy Summer Program

Beachwood, Ohio

216-293-7170

2010

Located in Beachwood, the perfect blend of academics (remedial or advanced), social skills, and fun.

Ages 6-16

1947

Archery, canoeing, kayaking, ropes course, climbing wall, tree-climbing, field games, tennis, fishing, woodworking, environmental science, rifle range, service learning and horseback riding.

Ages 6-18

2019

Kids who have energy to burn will have fun-filled days packed with top rope climbing, bouldering, slacklining, team-building games, and much more at Northeast Ohio’s premier indoor rock climbing gym.

Grades 1-8

1890

Saint Joseph Academy offers a wide variety of camps that focus on the arts (photography, art, theater), sciences (makerspace, medical applications) and wellness (yoga, global), athletic camps for girls in grades 3-9 (including basketball, crew, cross country, golf, lacrosse, rugby, soccer, softball, tennis and volleyball). Summer Enrichment Program cultivates scholastic, social and cultural enrichment opportunities for girls entering 7th and 8th grades for the 2022-23 school year.

Red Oak Camp

Kirtland, Ohio

Rock Climbing Camp at Shaker Rocks

Shaker Heights, Ohio

440-527-4584

216-848-0460

mandeljcc.org/daycamps

oldtrail.org/beyondthe-classroom/ summer-camp jayberkphd.com/ summer-at-pa

redoakcamp.org

shakerrocksclimbing.com

Saint Joseph Academy Arts, Sciences and Wellness, Athletic Camps

Cleveland, Ohio

216-251-6788

Shipwreck Camp 2022

Cleveland, Ohio

216-368-5075

gelfand.case.edu

NA

Shipwreck Camp 2022 camp for students ages 12-16. Campers learn about shipwrecks in Lake Erie, develop research skills, use tools of an explorer, dive to a wreck.

Ages 12-16

Summer at the Elms

Akron, Ohio

330-836-9384

theelms.org

1923

Explore the great outdoors and make new friends. Each day offers campers scheduled activities and free play opportunities for children to grow while having fun.

Ages 3 - 13

The Edge Summer Arts Camp

Twinsburg, Ohio

330-487-0452

theedgetwinsburg.org

2015

Children will be challenged with visual and performing arts taught by a professional artist. Projects include canvas painting, clay, pastels, mosaic, spoken word, music and more.

Ages 6-13

YMCA of Greater Cleveland

Cleveland, Ohio

330-421-3178

clevelandymca.org

1854

There's no place like the YMCA Camp, a home away from home where kids laugh, learn and explore while creating memories for a lifetime.

Ages 6-12

FamilyLiving Livingat atIts ItsBest Best 50 50 || Family

sja1890.org/summer

Grades 3-9 and Grades 7-8

No

Catholic

Catholic

NA

Genders Served

Cost Per Week ($)

Co-Ed

Offers Financial Aid

Virtual Option

No

Yes

Early-Bird Sign-Up Deadline

Session Length

Specializes in Special Needs

Hours

Offers Before/ After Care

No

Varies

Yes

Provides Meals

ACA Accredited

No

♫⚛

Boys and girls, separately

$800 for a two week session

Yes

No

Co-Ed

$194.50

No

Yes

Co-Ed

Varies by Camp Major

Yes

No

Co-Ed

$450 (two week camp)

No

No

Co-Ed

Cost varies

No

No

1/3/22

1/31/22

Early Bird Varies

Daily

Yes

Yes

Yes

Weekly

No

No

No

Weekly Biweekly

No

9 a.m.4 p.m. / Before & After Care Available

Yes

Yes

Daily Weekly

No

9 a.m. 4 p.m.

Yes

No

Weekly

No

Time varies

No

No

No

No

Weekly

No

9 a.m.3 p.m.

Yes

Lunch

No

Co-Ed

Yes

No

Weekly

No

Time varies

Yes

None

No

Yes

No

Weekly

No

9 a.m.4 p.m.

Yes

None

Yes

9 -a.m. 12 p.m., 9 a.m.3 p.m., or 9 a.m. 5 p.m..

No

None

No

No

None

no

Boys and girls, separately

$375.00

Co-Ed

$215 half day, $365 full day, or $415 extended day

No

No

Weekly

No

Girls Only

$100 -$150 (arts, science and wellness camps) $125-$200 (athletic camps) $165 (summer enrichment camps)

No

No

Weekly

No

Co-Ed

$535 for two weeks

Yes

No

Daily

No

9:30 a.m.3:30 p.m.

No

Lunch, Snack

No

Girls Only

$175

No

No

Weekly

No

9 a.m.3:30 p.m.

Yes

None

No

Co-Ed

$185

No

No

Weekly

No

9 a.m.3 p.m.

No

None

No

Co-Ed

$145 members; $165 non-members

Yes

No

Weekly

No

7 a.m. 6 p.m.

No

Snack

No

NA

H

H

H

Sponsored by:

Silver Sponsors:

Co-Ed

3/18/22

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March March2022 2022--NortheastOhioParent.com NortheastOhioParent.com

51 || 51

SUMMER CAMPS and PROGRAMS Guide MAGICAL THEATRE COMPANY

Professional teaching artists working in the field lovingly share their skills and knowledge with your kids, building up their confidence and self-esteem, with a hearty work ethic in an atmosphere of support and inclusion. Your kids will sing, dance, and act their way to joy, self-improvement, and success. Drama without trauma for your kids! magicaltheatre.org

MALTZ MUSEUM OF JEWISH HERITAGE Maltzmuseum.org

MARTELL SCHOOL OF DANCE

Martell School of Dance is offering three unique summer dance camps that are sure to spark your child’s creativity! At Princess Day Camp (ages 4-6) your child can explore magical movement and songs this June. Musical Theatre Summer Camp (1st-4th grade) includes training in dance, vocal, and acting techniques. June 13-17. At Acro Summer Camp (K-4th grade), they will learn bridges, back bends, handstands, cartwheels and more! June 20-23.

Register by calling 330-805-4854 or martelldance1@gmail.com

THE MUSIC SETTLEMENT

TMS Summer Camps provide creative experiences for kids, teens and adults of all ages and skill levels. Through music and the arts, offerings through TMS’ Centers for Music, Early Childhood, and Music Therapy provide fun opportunities for all to discover new talents and interests, build confidence, explore self-expression and improve skills and techniques. Camps are offered at the Ohio City and University Circle campuses. For more details about all camp offerings, visit TheMusicSettlement.org/camps

NATURE CENTER AT SHAKER LAKES shakerlakes.org/camp

52 | Family Living at Its Best

THE ODYSSEY PROGRAM

The Odyssey Program at Cleveland State University’s School of Film & Media Arts offers a variety of immersive summer camps for teens of all skill levels interested in filmmaking. The summer includes an experiential three-week camp from June 13-July 1, followed by three one-week intensive camps that focus on acting and directing (July 11-17), documentary production (July 18-24), and screenwriting (July 25-31). Day camp and residential options are available.

Learn more at csufilmodyssey.com

OHIO TUITION TRUST

Summer camps open new worlds for your child, as does a higher education. For over 30 years, Ohio’s 529 Plan has been helping families nationwide save tax-free for education, whether at a four-year or two-year college, a trade or technical school, or an apprenticeship. Learn, plan, and start with Ohio’s 529 Plan today at CollegeAdvantage.com.

PARK DAY CAMP

Park Day Camp offers campers entering Pre-K through 6th grade the authentic experiences that have made it a cherished camp for generations. Their program is designed to foster self-esteem, camaraderie and lots of fun. They have developed an engaging array of activities to appropriately challenge campers to grow inside and out. Their counselors are trained to be kind, caring and safe while having fun. Learn more about Park Day Camp at parksynagogue.org/park-day-camp.

LOOKING FOR MORE CAMPS?

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PARENT E-NEWSLETTERS TO VIEW “CAMP OF THE WEEK” OR CHECK THE ONLINE CAMP DIRECTORY, VISIT NORTHEASTOHIOPARENT.COM

- CONTINUED ON PAGE 54 -

March 2022 - NortheastOhioParent.com

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SUMMER CAMPS and PROGRAMS Guide PROGRESS WITH CHESS

Enrich your child’s summer with chess camp. Students learn and improve at the intriguing game of chess. Camps conducted by PWC, experienced provider of after-school chess programs in 50+ Northeast Ohio locations. Players of all levels, beginner to advanced, will receive plenty of individual attention in small groups divided by age and skill level.

Activities include a healthy mixture of interactive lessons and supervised open play. Register by April 1 for $30 off at progresswithchess.org/camps

PSI

Psi-solutions.org

SCHOOL OF ROCK

School of Rock music camps offer an incredible selection of experiences from beginner music camps to intermediate and advanced sessions at three different locations: Westlake, Strongsville, and Highland Heights. There’s a camp for every interest and skill level. Check the School of Rock website (schoolofrock.com/music-camps) for upcoming music camps that teach students not only how to play and perform music, but also music theory, songwriting, and Rock ‘n’ Roll appreciation.

SUMMER RUFFING IT! ruffingmontessori.net

YMCA SUMMER CAMPS

There’s no place like the YMCA Summer Camp: a home away from home where kids laugh, learn, explore and grow, all while creating memories and friendships that last a lifetime. The YMCA knows that every kid is different. That’s why it offers camps for your child’s needs. Financial assistance is available for those who qualify. Learn about sites, curriculum and COVID-19 safety precautions at neoymcas.org

YOUNG CHEFS ACADEMY CULINARY CAMP youngchefsacademy.com

CA&MP

SUMMER 20 PROGRAMS 22

FA I R 54 | Family Living at Its Best

3/13

Northeast Ohio Parent Camp & Summer Programs Fair.

Meet representatives from a variety of camps and summer program options for the grandkids to help get the planning started.

See Jungle Terry, enter camp scholarship giveaways, win raffle prizes and more. 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Summit Mall.

Northeastohioparent.com

March CAlenDAR

Find more events at NortheastOhioParent.com

Day s ’ y t t a P .

St FUN F O K C U L

3/12

Luck of Green Eggs and Ham Celebration. Bring the whole family to celebrate Dr. Seuss and enjoy some Green eggs and ham. Sticking with the “green” spirit, you will hear your favorite St. Patrick’s day stories. 10-11 a.m. Geauga West Library, 13455 Chillicothe Road, Chesterland, 440-729-4250, divi.geaugalibrary.net

PICK - A - DAY MONDAYS

Simply Science: Marine Biology.

Learn about oceans, life in the sea, the marine kingdoms, marine invertebrates, marine ecology, intertidal zone, and much more.

Through 4/25. Grades 7-12. 1-3:30 p.m. Akron Fossils & Science Center, 2080 S. Cleveland Massillon Rd., Copley, 330-665-3466, akronfossils.com

WEDNESDAYFRIDAY

Nature Nuts. Introducing children to the wonders of science and nature with hands-on activities, crafts, music, games, live animal encounters and planetarium shows. Through 5/13. Ages 3-5.

12:30-2:30 p.m. Lake Erie Nature & Science Center, Porter Creek Room, 28728 Wolf Rd., Bay Village, 440-871-2900, lensc.org

WEDNESDAY

Totally Teen Wednesdays. Each week, there will be crafts and board games. Hang out with friends for a while before heading home. Through 5/18. 3-4:30 p.m.

Cuyahoga Falls Library, 2015 Third St., 330-928-2117, cuyahogafallslibrary.org

FRIDAYS

Kindergarten Readiness. Come for kindergarten readiness activities focused on math, science, literacy, play, and socio-emotional learning. Caregivers will learn simple ways to continue practicing these skills at home. 3/11 and 4/8.

3/12

How To Catch a Leprechaun.

Come together and help build a trap for this mischievous creature. Grades K-2. 10:30-11 a.m. Brunswick Library, 3649 Center Road, 330-273-4150, mcdl.info

11 a.m.-noon. Stow-Munroe Falls Public Library, 3512 Darrow Rd., 330-688-3295, smfpl.org Family Skate Friday. Family fun at the rink every Friday from 6-9 p.m. United Skates of America, 30325 Palisades Pkwy., Wickliffe, unitedskates.com

FRIDAYS-SUNDAYS

Golf Cart Cruise. Join a knowledgeable staff member for a 60-minute golf cart journey through the African Savanna, on a Wilderness Trek, and finishing up on the back roads of Australia.

April-October. Fridays at 11 a.m., Saturdays 11 a.m. or 1:30 p.m. and Sundays at 1:30 p.m. Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, 3900 Wildlife Way, 216-635-3391, futureforwildlife.org

3/16

Randolph St. Patrick’s Day Crafts. Celebrate by enjoying various St. Patrick’s Day crafts at the Randolph Branch Library.

Noon-1 p.m. 1639 State Route 44, Randolph, 330-325-7003, portagelibrary.org

SATURDAYS

S.T.E.A.M. Team Saturdays. Take the challenge and explore this fun approach to science, technology, engineering, art and math learning. First Saturday of the month: ages 7 and up. Second Saturday: Ages 3-6. Third and fourth Saturdays: all ages. 1-2 p.m. Akron Children’s Museum, 216 S. Main St., akronkids.org Chess Club. A drop-in activity for chess players of all ages and skill levels. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Twinsburg Public Library, 10050 Ravenna Road, 330-425-4268, twinsburglibrary.org

✱ Submit Your Event to Us! northeastohioparent.com/events/community/add March 2022 - NortheastOhioParent.com

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March CALENDAR High School Rock Off at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Bands will perform during one of three competition rounds in front of industry judges. Three bands from each round will advance to the Final Exam on 3/26. 6-10 p.m. 1100 Rock and Roll Blvd., Cleveland, rockhall.com

SUNDAYS

Family FUNdays at the Community Arts Center. Featuring family-friendly games, movement-based activities, art making, and even a family parade. Every first Sunday of the month. 1-4 p.m.

2937 West 25th St., Cleveland, clevelandart.org

DAY - BY - DAY 3/5

4th Annual Chocolate Fest Cleveland 2022. Chocolate vendors will provide samples of all their goodies, plus wine & chocolate pairing classes, truffle-making classes, chocolate martini bar, craft beer, wine and food. 5-9 p.m.

1091 W. 10th St., Cleveland, chocolatefestcleveland.com

3/5-7

Inclusion Day at the Zoo. Back by popular demand, Summit DD and the Akron Zoo have partnered for Inclusion Day at Zoo, in celebration of March DD Awareness Month.

Admission is free for visitors wearing orange (the color of inclusion).

There will be free developmental screenings for children from birth

to age 3. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Akron Zoo, 505 Euclid Ave., Akron, 330-3752550, akronzoo.org

3/6

K-9 Kapers. Dog owners are given an opportunity to socialize with other dogs and owners through fun hikes and other means. 4-3 p.m. River Styx Park, 8200 River Styx Road, Wadsworth, medinaparks.com

3/9

Rain Barrels 101. Learn what a rain barrel is, how to use collected rainwater, what makes a rain barrel well designed, potential problems, troubleshooting and more. Willowick Public Library, 263 E. 305th St., 440-943-4151, we247.org

3/10

Sensory Consult. Is your child bothered by noises, constantly spinning or crashing into things, or unable to wear certain clothing?

If so, come and meet with a pediatric occupational therapist for a 15-minute consult. 6-8:30 p.m.

Middleburg Heights Branch Library, 15600 E. Bagley Roclead, 440-2343600, cuyahogalibrary.org

3/11 & 3/18

Intro to Archery for Families.

Families with children age 9 and older can learn international-style target archery together at our indoor range. Beginning and practiced archers are welcome.

7-8:30 p.m. Firestone Metro Park,

Coventry Oaks Area, 40 Axline Ave., Akron, summitmetroparks.org

3/12

Night Sky Viewing. If skies are clear, observe the night sky through the Oberle telescope and other telescopes spaced out around the plaza. Planetarium presentation if cloudy. 7-11 p.m.

Observatory Park, 10610 Clay St., Montville Township, 440-279-0820, geaugaparkdistrict.org DIY Crystal Suncatcher. Come make a beaded suncatcher. On a sunny day, enjoy the reflection of colors as the sun shines through the suncatcher. Ages 8+. 2-3 p.m. Reed Memorial Library, 167 E. Main St., Ravenna, 330-296-2827, reedlibrary.org Do You Hear What I Hear? Listen and learn about the early spring frogs and salamanders. 5 p.m.

Morgan Park, 8828 SR 44, Ravenna, portageparkdistrict.org

3/13

Family Clay. Families are invited to this all-ages workshop to make clay masterpieces in the Ceramics Studio. 2:30-3:30 p.m. Massillon Museum, 121 Lincoln Way East, Massillon, massillonmuseum.org

3/14

Bookmaking. Construct a beautiful book with simple materials inspired by Joy Harjo’s An American Sunrise. In the books, participants will have the option to illustrate and write responses to provided

prompts that empower us to envision an inclusive future. Any age or ability. 3-6 p.m. Kent Free Library, 312 W. Main St., 330-6734414, kentfreelibrary.org

3/15

Book Babble. Waiting to be old enough for book clubs? Join now.

Discuss such titles as The True Story of the 3 Little Pigs, By A. Wolf; Mr. Mergler, Beethoven, and Me, and The Dog. Grades 2-3. 7-7:45 p.m. Rocky River Public Library, 1600 Hampton Road, 440-3337610, rrpl.org

3/17

Homeschool Fitness and Rhythm. Children will enjoy a variety of different learning experiences each month. Ages 6-12.

2-3 p.m. Willoughby Public Library, 30 Public Square, 440-942-3200, we247.org

3/18

Culinary Creators Cooking Kit. Stop by each month to pick up a culinary cooking kit complete with almost everything you need to make a meal for 2. March’s kit: Tonkotsu Style Vegetarian Ramen.

Ages 7 and up. University Heights Branch Library, 13866 Cedar Road, 216-932-3600, heightslibrary.org

3/18-27

Disney High School Musical. The students of East High must deal with issues of first love, friends, and family while balancing their classes, and extracurricular activities.

Basketball team captain and the brainy new girl cause an upheaval when they decide to audition for their high school musical. 7:30 p.m.

Fridays and Saturdays and 3 p.m.

Sundays. Beck Center for the Arts, 17801 Detroit Ave., Lakewood, 216521-2540, beckcenter.org

3/19

American Girl Club. Celebrate American Girl dolls and learn about historical America. For 2nd6th graders. 10:45 a.m.-noon. North Canton Public Library, 185 N. Main St., 330-499-4712, ncantonlibrary.com Play Day at The Cleveland Museum of Art: Make Your Mark. Play Days at the CMA are opportunities for the whole family to be creative, be curious, and connect through art. Noon-4 p.m. 11150 East Blvd., 216-421-7350, clevelandart.org

56 | Family Living at Its Best

Super Science Saturday: Exciting Engineering. Love to build? Excited to design?

Explore the world of engineering. 10:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Akron Fossils & Science Center, 2080 S. Cleveland Massillon Road, Copley, 330-665-3466, akronfossils.com AROC Music Production for Teens and Young Adults.

Learn to make computer-based music in this hands-on experience. Be introduced to production equipment and software as you are guided through the creation of personalized song writing, make a recording, and have a spot on stage at a community event. Noon-2 p.m. Shaker Library, 16500 Van Aken Blvd., 216-991-2030, shakerlibrary.org Story Improv. Celebrate World Storytelling Day with an interactive family program of stories we will make up as we go along, using puppets, props, and take-home crafts.

3-4 p.m. Solon Branch Library, 34125 Portz Pkwy., 440-2488777, cuyahogalibrary.org

3/20

Zap’s Magic Show. Enjoy a little Spring Break Magic with your favorite magician, Mr. Zap. 11:45 a.m. Avon Lake Public Library, 32649 Electric Blvd., 440-933-8128, alpl.org

3/21

Tail Waggin Tutors. Kids are invited to visit the library and practice their reading skills with a real certified therapy dog. 4:30-5:30 p.m. Hudson Library & Historical Society, 96 Library St., 330-653-6658, hudsonlibrary.org

3/23

Hybrid Homeschool: Ohio Conservation. Journey through the Aquarium’s freshwater galleries, with an emphasis on the animals from Ohio and another conservation story involving the spotted turtle. Grades 4-8.1010:45 a.m. Greater Cleveland Aquarium, 2000 Sycamore St., Cleveland, 216-862-8803, greaterclevelandaquarium. com

3/24

Scooby-Doo Live! “Scooby-Doo! and The Lost City of Gold” is an all-new live stage spectacular coming to Akron in March. Featuring an original story, new characters, acrobatics, puppets, and stage magic, this show is perfect for all ages. 7:30 p.m.

The University of Akron, E.J. Thomas Performing Arts Hall, 198 Hill St., Akron, uakron.edu.ej

3/25

Kids Craft/Parent Date Night. Drop the kids off for a night of crafting and creativity. 6-8 p.m. Bay Arts, 28795 Lake Road, Bay Village, bayarts.net

3/27

Ride a Draft Horse. They pull wagons and plows, now here is a chance to groom, saddle and ride a mighty draft horse.

Ages 10+. 11 a.m.-Noon. Lake Metroparks Farmpark, 8800 Euclid Chardon Road, Kirtland, 440-256-2122, lakemetroparks.com

3/28

Teen Gaming. Video games, board games, card games, and more. The library will provide some gaming options to choose from, but teens are welcome to bring their own games to play, too.

3:30-5 p.m. North Canton Public Library, 185 N. Main St., 330-499-4712, ncantonlibrary.com

3/26

3/29

World Water Day. Travel the blue planet at this family-friendly event. Grab a passport to explore the global importance of fresh water.

Learn about traditional crafts, folk music, and ethnic foods.

Noon-4 p.m. West Creek Reservation, Watershed Stewardship Center, 2277 W. Ridgewood Drive, Parma, 440-887-1968, clevelandmetroparks.com

3/30

Plant a Patch with your little Pumpkin. Enjoy a story about an ugly pumpkin, create personalized seed starting craft (bean necklace), and takehome pumpkin and squash seedlings for the garden. 10-11 a.m. Holden Arboretum, 9500 Sperry Road, Kirtland, 440946-4400, holdenarb.org

Ready Set Create! Building Challenges for Kids: Engineering Disasters. Hands-on building and technology challenges give you the chance to solve problems, be creative and work with real engineers from the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE). Grades 2-5. 2-3:15 p.m. Parma-Powers Branch Library, 6996 Powers Blvd., Parma, cuyahogalibrary.org LEGO Super Saturday.

Children (Kindergarten-4th grade) will explore building concepts and stories every last Saturday of the month.

11 a.m. Wickliffe Public Library, 1713 Lincoln Road, 440-9446010, wickliffepl.org

Virtual Pet Show and Tell. Share a silly pet book together, then show off pets, and tell stories of their funny antics, what makes them so special, and any tricks or fun facts about them. 2-3 p.m.

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

Birds: Just for Homeschoolers. In this exploration of feathered friends, learn about bird anatomy, bird identification, and how to keep a life list of birds one has seen.

In addition, conduct a few experiments, play a matching game, and make a bird feeder. 2-3 p.m. Wadsworth Public Library, 132 Broad St., 330-334-5761, wadsworthlibrary.com

3/31

Teen Job Fair. If you’re looking for summer employment in the Avon Lake area, visit this job fair. They are partnering with OhioMeansJobs Lorain County to connect employers with prospective employees aged 16-18 looking for general information about jobs. 3-7 p.m. Waugaman Gallery, 32649 Electric Blvd., Avon Lake, alpl.org Owlbert’s Adventures: Birding for Kids Hike. Birding program designed for kids ages 3-6. 10 a.m. Trail Lake Park, 605 Ravenna Road, Streetsboro, portageparkdistrict.org

March 2022 - NortheastOhioParent.com

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Maple Happenings MONDAYS & THURSDAYS

SUNDAYS

Sap’s-a’Risin’. Help gather sap in the sugarbush with a horse-drawn sap sled, experience the tapping, gathering and boiling methods used throughout history, see sap boiling in the sugar house, and try a taste of pure maple syrup. Through 3/20. Noon-4 p.m. Swine Creek Reservation, 16004 Hayes Road, Middlefield Twp, geaugaparkdistrict.org

3/5 & 3/12

Ohio Maple Madness Tour. “Pa” hitches up the horses and takes visitors into the woods through the sugar bush to collect the sweet stuff, then brings it back to the sugar shack to demonstrate how it is all done. Sample some maple coffee, candy, and various other treats in the log cabin. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Ma & Pa’s Gift Shack, 15161 Main Market Road, Burton, 440-548-5521, maandpas.com

3/5-6, 3/12-13

Maple Sugaring Weekends.

Visitors take a wagon ride to the Woodland Center to witness the maple-producing process as sap is collected from a network of tubing and 1,000 taps. After collection, watch as the sap is boiled and turned into maple syrup and candy. 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Lake Metroparks Farmpark, 8800 Euclid Chardon Road, Kirtland, 440-256-2122, lakemetroparks. com

3/12

Maple Sugaring Indoors. Enjoy the story of maple sugaring from inside the classroom. Follow the season of maple sugaring from the first drip of sap to the bursting open of the maple tree buds with the help of photos and stories.

1-1:45 p.m. Carlisle Reservation, 12882 Diagonal Road, Lagrange, loraincountymetroparks.com

3/12-13, 3/19-20

Maple Sugaring Days. Explore how maple sap processing changed through the 19th century on the historic grounds. Guests are encouraged to explore the natural beauty of Hale Farm maple sugar bush with outdoor demonstrations including tree tapping and a pioneer-style sugar camp. Museum open 9 a.m.-4 p. m. Pancake breakfast is served until 3 p.m. Hale Farm & Village, 2686 Oak Hill Road, Bath, 330-666-3711, wrhs.org

3/14

Storybook Stroll Story Time: Maple Syrup from the Sugar House. Bundle up and keep warm with a story and a stroll. An outdoor story time and activities at the Storybook Stroll located at the Children’s Nature Discovery Trail. Featured story: Maple Syrup from the Sugar House by Laurie Knowlton. 10:30-11 a.m. Carlisle Reservation, 12882 Diagonal Road, Lagrange, loraincountymetroparks.com

3/19

Maple Madness Open House.

Join a naturalist and learn the ins and outs of maple syrup production. See how the trees are tapped, how sap is collected, and how it is boiled down to that sweet amber syrup we all enjoy on our pancakes, waffles or ice cream. Noon- 4 p.m. Liberty Park Nature Center, 9999 Liberty Road, Twinsburg, summitmetroparks. org

4/21-24

Geauga County Maple Festival.

The oldest maple festival in the U.S. celebrates the production of pure maple syrup in Geauga County and Northeast Ohio. Four days of fun, food and “everything maple.” Chardon Square, 111 E. Park St., 440-286-3007, maplefestival.com

Sponsored by:

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SPRING BREAK ACTIVITIES

One Day Art Camp. Each camp differs with activities exploring dance, theater, arts and more. 3/21: UnBirthday Party, 3/24: Beach Party, 3/28: Around the Word Arts Adventures, and 3/31: Upcycled Arts.

Ages 5-10. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Fairmount Center for the Arts, 8400 Fairmount Road, Novelty, 440-338-3171, fairmountcenter.org

3/12-13

Weekend Day Camp at Camp Cheerful. Children with disabilities enjoy a variety of fun camp activities that help promote independence, confidence, and friendship in a unique setting with caring, supportive staff. Saturday 9 a.m.-7 p.m. and Sunday 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

15000 Cheerful Lane, Strongsville, campcheerful.achievement centers.org

3/14-17

Spring Break Public Skates. Have fun over Spring Break and skate at the Mentor Civic Arena. Noon-1:30 p.m. and 3-4:30 p.m. 8600 Munson Road, Mentor, cityofmentor.com

3/15-17, 3/21, 3/23 & 3/25

Spring Break Art Camp. Your child(ren) will explore different mediums, play games, and have fun during camp. Ages 6-14. Noon3 p.m. Busy Bees Pottery & Arts Studio, 7850 Mentor Ave., Mentor, 440-571-5201, mentor.busybeesart.com

3/23-24 & 4/20-21

Kindergarten through 8th grade.

8:15 a.m.-3:15 p.m. Explore new, standalone themes each day, or join them all week. 601 Erieside Ave., Cleveland, 216-694-2000, greatscience.com

Mobile DJ Camp. Get ready to load out, set up and get the party started with this hands-on, immersive learning experience and the opportunity to host a mobile DJ event start to finish. Track 1: Ages 10-13. Track 2: Ages 14-17. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. City of Cuyahoga Falls Downtown Pavilion, 2085 Front St., cityofcf.com/events/mobile-djcamp

3/29

Spring Break Out Escape Room.

Escape the latest fiendish escape room for teens in less than an hour. Teens must work together to follow a trail of clues to solve fiendish puzzles and avoid deadly traps. 6-7 p.m. Medina County District Library, 210 S. Broadway St., 330-725-0588, mcdl.info

3/30-31 & 4/13-14

Spring Break Adventure Day Camp. Children aged 7-12 years will get up-close views of local wildlife, try their hand at STEMbased science experiments, and explore the trails of Beech Creek Botanical Gardens and Nature Preserve. Campers will participate in enriching activities that will foster their creativity and curiosity about nature. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 11929 Beech St. NE, Alliance, 330-8297050, beachcreekgardens.org

4/5-9

Spring Break Adventure Camp.

Learn about surviving in the wild and the basics of finding your way when lost. Become your own survivalist utilizing your outdoor living skills. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Common Ground, 14240 Baird Road, Oberlin, commongroundcenter.org

Spring Break Camp at Peak Potential Therapy. A recreational speech therapy camp filled with plenty of fun, adventure and activity, where every child with a disability can be successful. Ages 10-16. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. 7689 Sagamore Hills Blvd., Northfield, peakpotentialtherapy.com

3/28-29

4/20

Civil War Encampment. Infantry, cannons, battles, living history, confederate camps, blanket talks, President Abraham Lincoln, and so much more. Century Village Museum, 14653 E. Park St., Burton, 440-834-1492, centuryvillagemuseum.org

3/28-4/1

Camp Curiosity. Campers can experience hands-on robotics workshops, learn about engineering through Minecraft, get creative with spy science, and more.

Mixed Media Spring Break Camp.

Mixed Media camp will explore the art of combining different art materials and techniques to create new kinds of art. Your artist will explore printmaking, t-shirt design, and collage during this day of camp. 8:30 a.m.-Noon or 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Ages 7-14. AkronArtWorks, 1684 Merriman Road, Akron, akronartworks.com

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MARCH 2022

TECH SUPPORT Helping to navigate the world of smart devices and ward off scammers.

60 | Family Living at Its Best

A

s the oldest continually operating African American-founded long-term care facility in the United States, Eliza Bryant Village was established to care for the aging African American community of Greater Cleveland. Here at the Village, our residents are the decision makers regarding their day-to-day activities.

Deciding when to eat, what activities they want to attend and when to go to bed - that’s

Photo courtesy of Eliza Bryant Village

- SPONSORED CONTENT -

person-centered care.

Skilled nursing is the perfect solution for individuals who require professional 24hour care. As a small-care, 99-bed facility, we are able to offer person-centered, individualized care like family.

Under the guidance of leading African American care expert Dr. Gregory Hall, our Skilled

Nursing facility is a leader in culturally-competent care.

In addition to our 24/7 skilled care, we offer outpatient rehabilitation, independent senior housing, adult day services and home care options. Learn more by calling us at 216-361-6141 or visiting ElizaBryant.org.

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Helping Mom and Dad Avoid

SCAMMERS Help your parents avoid the dangers of scammers, whether via phone calls or through email.

By Jeannie Fleming-Gifford

T

he recent passing of her husband had already made life challenging. Then the call came from a scammer posing as an insurance company. Because her husband had handled their insurance policies, this widow provided the financial information that was requested. It wasn’t until it was too late that she realized that the scenario was a scam.

Bruce Fedor, community involvement officer for the Willoughby Police Department, shared this story and the fact that unfortunately, this type of scam happens all too often to aging individuals in the community.

SCAMS TO KNOW Some common scams include insurance (especially common around the Medicare renewal period), and pulling at

62 | Family Living at Its Best

the heartstrings of grandparents who are told that a grandchild is sick, in an accident or even in jail. All of these types of stories lead to asking for a commitment of money, most often through the disclosure of bank account information or a credit card number.

Fedor says scammers will take any angle to deceive potential victims. With many senior citizens, the pitch to engage is usually fear-based and high pressure.

There is usually some sort of bait, a hook, and then a need for financial information in order to resolve. They may try to hook seniors via phone, email or mail.

With a phone call, scammers work to get people talking. Once that conversation has started, they now have an “in.”

To complicate matters, many aging loved ones welcome the interaction and conversations from perceived friendly voices on the other end of a phone line.

Also, emails can often be designed to look authentic and unless carefully scrutinized, can be another way senior citizens easily become part of a scam. Email scams are often followed up with phone calls, once the scammer sees an individual has engaged with an email that has been sent as an initial connection.

SUPPORT FOR YOUR PARENTS Scams can be overwhelming to spot and work through at any age, but how can you support your parents in remaining safe and vigilant against scammers? Some basic tips are hanging up or not answering phone calls from unknown callers, not opening or deleting emails from unknown sources, and always checking first or investigating further before disclosing any private information.

Fedor also shares the following tips:

• Keep the lines of communication open with your parents. Be wary of a parent talking about a new “best friend” or a connection that seems to have interest in building a relationship with them.

• Consider having your parents freeze their credit. A credit freeze is also called a security freeze and prevents new accounts from being opened up. It is one of the best ways to prevent new accounts from being opened in someone’s name, and it does not affect a credit score. Because many people are not actively making large purchases, this can be an effective way of stopping scammers even when people have inadvertently provided financial information.

• Educate yourself about scams so you can educate your parents. Additional resources and workshops can be found by looking at such websites as the Ohio Attorney General (ohioattorneygeneral.gov) and the FBI (fbi. gov crime prevention). Fedor said even a simple note hung on the refrigerator can be the perfect reminder about staying vigilant against scammers.

• Request access to your parents’ accounts to help keep an eye on things. Yes, financials

often are confidential, but as parents age, they may need additional support to ensure all is in good standing. Working in cooperation with banks, credit card companies and your parents, levels of access can be granted, so they can have additional support — and, most importantly — another set of eyes on all. Additionally, help support them in updating their passwords regularly.

What should you do when you believe your parents may have been scammed? First, remember that scammers can be tricky, and sometimes parents who are victims of scams can be embarrassed or feel guilty. It is important to be supportive and help them navigate a resolution to this type of incident.

Fedor recommends filing a police report first.

“Most financial institutions generally won’t do anything

until the police report is filed,” Fedor says.

“But of course, the best protection is to be proactive and follow the tips above, so a scam never occurs in the first place.”

Jeannie Fleming-Gifford has a MA in family and consumer sciences with a specialization in child development and is the vice president of programming at Lakeside Chautauqua. Her passions include outdoor adventures, volunteering to raise potential autism service dogs, and writing. She recently published her first children’s book, “SymFUNNY,” and a memoir called “The Gift I Never Wanted.”

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- Sponsored Content -

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A Better Way to stay in your home

our aging parent is determined to keep living at home, but you’re concerned about their physical and financial safety. What do you do?

Imagine if they could stay in their home, stop worrying about home maintenance, and access funds to cover home services and other expenses. That’s what Truehold, a new company, is offering Cleveland-area residents.

92 percent of older adults want to remain in their homes for the long term, yet many people have difficulty managing home upkeep or covering rising medical costs as they age.

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Residents then rent their home for as long as they’d like, with Truehold

64 | Family Living at Its Best

covering maintenance, property tax and home insurance.

“We started Truehold after watching loved ones face difficult decisions about where to live and how to afford care.

Some moved to assisted living, only to suffer health declines due to the jarring change,” said Brian Haardecker, founder and CEO of Truehold. “Others stayed in their homes but encountered surprise hardships that made it challenging for them to truly enjoy their retirement.

There needed to be a better option for those who want to stay in their home— so we created one.”

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Truehold provides a comprehensive solution from its experienced team of experts in senior living, occupational therapy, care management, real estate, financial services, and customer experience. The company is passionate about bringing an honest, human and helpful approach to an antiquated, sometimes predatory industry.

“We’re committed to responsibly serving seniors and always putting their interests first. We try to only suggest solutions that help improve their wellbeing—whether that be with us or someone else,” Hardecker said.

“We’re excited to build a long-term, trusted service for Cleveland seniors and their families.”

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#CLE MAMA

When is the Right Age

for a

SARA CARNES • Facebook = Sara Carnes • Instagram = saracarnes4

Sleepover?

Sleepovers were the best growing up. I actually had a ton of sleepovers growing up. I have the best memories of setting up stage shows in the basement and lip syncing to Paula Abdul and popping on our favorite movie and popcorn to end the night. As they say... those were the days.

Fast forward to me as a mom and hosting the sleepovers, with two daughters, 21 and 11. So with the little age gap, I’ve had time to learn when is the right age for your kids to start having or attending

sleepovers. Well, I’ll tell you a story. Years ago, when my older daughter was turning 7, I thought it would be a brilliant idea to host a sleepover for her birthday and invite her friends. I was a new young mom, and I only had amazing memories of my sleepovers, so I thought this would be so fun. I didn’t really stop to think about how having six 7-year-olds over for the night was gonna be a ton of work.

Actually, it wasn’t that bad… It could’ve been worse. Nobody got homesick, and everyone had fun, but looking back, I said, “Never again.” It was honestly more about all the hard work with kids that young.

What was I thinking!? Eh, but we made a memory.

Here’s the thing. I think it really depends on your kids what age sleepovers should start. For us, 10 seems to be a good age. I think sleepovers can be good for kids. In our family, though, the No. 1 rule for sleepovers is that we have to know the parents. And I have to know them really well. My daughter has only been allowed to stay with friends where we personally know the parents on a friendship level. I do think it’s a big deal to let your kids stay in someone else’s home, so unless you really know the parents, I would personally caution.

Here are a few tips I found for hosting sleepovers throughout the years: 1. Keep it simple.

No need to go overboard with activities, crafts, and foods.

Kids just enjoy their company and hanging out and playing.

Don’t pressure yourself to go overboard. If you have something fun or creative to do, great... but don’t feel pressure to make it perfect.

2. Don’t

3. Do ask

over-invite.

about food

Especially when they’re younger, start small with one friend. As they get older they’re more self-sufficient, and adding more isn’t as challenging. And most of you know this already, but don’t forget the rule of 2s.

Always have an even number... you don’t want anyone feeling left out.

restrictions.

So many kids today have food restrictions, and you want to be prepared.

4. Talk with your kids about rules before their

friends get there.

I don’t know about you, but when friends arrive, my kids lose their minds, and a new level of hyper sets in. Having a talk beforehand about bedtime, rules, etc., always seems to help.

❝Again, I think it’s different for every family.

Trust your gut. What age do you think

66 | Family Living at Its Best

is right for sleepovers?

❞

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68 | Family Living at Its Best