May 2022 FREE!
NortheastOhioParent.com
Summer Fun Guide
20
Your Sunny Season Resource
Ways to Thank Teachers Last Chance for Camp! Mom Makers Gifts You'll Love
Next Steps Families Celebrating New Adventures
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Congratulations to Grads!
May 2022 - NortheastOhioParent.com
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2 | Family Living at Its Best
May 2022 - NortheastOhioParent.com
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May SUMMER FUN GUIDE
Starting after page 18, check out this 32-page resource to get your family plugged in to this summer’s adventures.
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EDITOR’S NOTE Step Outside: Sunny Season
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features
08
Summer
WORTH NOTING Schools creating gardens, National Foster Care Month Reading Room, and Meet this year’s ‘Stop the Hate’ grand prize scholarship winner.
FFuun Guide
12
EDUCATION CORNER
200 + Cool Thing
HIT THE BEACH Ways to Play in the Sand
WHEEL SAFETY Get Kids to Wear Helmets & Pads
2022 Summer FUN
s To Do
Guide - NortheastO hioParent.c
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What’s to do around town this month? There’s plenty of happenings, whether you want to take your family outdoors or inside the area’s attractions.
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How to support your parents with dementia.
FOR ALL MOMS
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#CLEMAMA
A Mom’s note to her younger self offering some advice on parenting.
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NEXT STEPS: CONGRATULATIONS, GRADS!
With pandemic restrictions easing, find ways to celebrate with your child, no matter their age.
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FAMILY CALENDAR
YOUR AGING PARENTS
Local moms provide handcrafted product ideas this Mother’s Day to help honor — and cherish Moms. Also, check out our Mother’s Day events on pg. 18
Our final list to help families still deciding on where to send their kids this camp season.
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TEENS OFF SCREENS Balancing Time In and Outdoors
19
LAST CHANCE FOR CAMP AND SUMMER PROGRAMS
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Sponsored by:
We provide 20 ideas to thank your child’s teachers before the school year ends.
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ON THE COVER:
Emma, a graduating senior at Berea-Midpark High School, helps us celebrate grads! PHOTO BY MEMORIES BY STEPHANIE
May 2022 - NortheastOhioParent.com
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EDITOR'S
NOTE
PHOTO BY PRELUDE PHOTOGRAPHY
VOL. NO. 9 • ISSUE NO. 5
STEP OUTSIDE: THE SUNNY SEASON Let’s face it. We live in Northeast Ohio, where the weather is mostly unpredictable. I am sure you have seen the meme “We are here,” with all 12 of Ohio’s seasons. As I am writing this, we are at “Actual Spring,” where it went from 40 degrees to 80 degrees in one evening. I’m baking under the big yellow ball at my son’s baseball game, and all I see is blue skies with a hint of clouds. My mood is lighter, and things don’t seem so bad (the team is winning, so that helps, too.) But I’m thinking that the only weather we can count on is that the gray skies will return, eventually. Maybe even tomorrow. In Ohio, it’s well known we have a vitamin D deficiency issue. In fact, according to the Cleveland Clinic, “in areas such as Cleveland, the UV-B light does not reach the earth for six months out of the year, due to the ozone layer and the zenith of the sun.” Although you still have to protect yourself from the sun, it does have its benefits, including keeping your immune system healthy. Before the pandemic, my blood work showed that I was low in vitamin D. It had a lot to do with not taking advantage of the weather. Other than eating certain foods, spending about 15-20 minutes of sunshine three days per week is usually sufficient, according to the Cleveland Clinic. With so many parents still working from home — and some kids who prefer indoor games on their devices — take time to look out your window. Can you fit in 20 minutes of sun, if you sit outside with your computer? Pandemic restrictions are easing, and while I’m not going to completely push aside all health precautions, I’m loosening the reins a bit with my teens. That’s why in this issue, we wanted to give you ideas to get the whole family outside in this upcoming sunny season. Also, in this “new normal,” we are looking at next steps, from how we spend our time this summer to the graduation adventures of our kids. I can’t go without mentioning that May is Mom’s month, so take a few minutes to celebrate ourselves and each other. We provide some gift ideas for all Moms. Honestly, it’s been a tough second half of the winter, so looking around to see kids on swings, a kite flying high, and people cheering for a base hit reminds me just how lucky we are to get to enjoy these sun-filled days.
May 2022 Northeast Ohio Parent is a property of
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Worth
NOTING
Planting a Seed with
School Gardens
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ore than 12,334 school gardening programs around the country support classroom curricula and build healthy eating habits. With farm-to-table rooted in the public domain, farm-toschool programs are growing in new ways. “We garden to teach kids where food comes from,” says Emily Felderman, visual arts teacher at Laurel School in Shaker Heights, who along with music teacher Cara Tweed, started a garden program for third through fifth graders. “The girls experience great joy in growing their own food. Watching a seed begin to germinate and transform into a mature plant is a magical process.” They’ve grown radishes, spinach, lettuce mix, garlic, peas, collards, daffodils, basil, oregano, thyme, tomatoes, peppers, eggplant, pumpkins, beans, corn, and rye. They start seedlings using a light cart and use a cold frame to grow produce year-round. “The girls take tremendous pride and ownership in the garden,” Tweed says.
8 | Family Living at Its Best
By Paris Wolfe
“Every two weeks, different students are assigned to be horticulturists. They lead the work that needs to be accomplished during their tenure. The horticulturists make announcements regarding the progress of the plants’ growth. They talk to the chefs about how they might use the garden’s produce in our meals.” The dining staff uses the produce for daily lunches. “They also incorporate the garden into lessons,” Felderman says. “Gardening also allows for great opportunities to teach math,” she adds. “Predicting, estimating, graphing, and determining perimeter are concepts we have integrated into this curriculum.” This spring, the fifth-grade girls are designing and building new accessible garden beds for a planned expansion of the garden. As part of the design process, they consider the needs of those with limited mobility, calculating the cost of the necessary materials, and constructing the beds themselves using a variety of tools. To provide tools for educators, programs from organizations in and around the region are stepping up to fill the gaps. Local Lessons for Growing Minds is a USDA grant-funded collaboration among regional educators, nutritionists, and the public sector that meets state standards and STEM requirements. The free, new curriculum, available from Spice Field Kitchen in Cleveland, includes 10 lessons — is designed for schools, educators and community organizations to engage students in kindergarten through fifth grade with
multimedia and hands-on learning experiences. Through the lessons, students learn about local food systems and how to make healthy food choices. “We’ve done all the lesson planning,” says Alison Patrick, program manager at Feed Our Future from Cuyahoga County Board of Health. “All teachers and students have to do is plug it in.” Spice Field Kitchen partners with school and community organizations to deliver agricultural and culinary experiences, from the classroom to school garden spaces. Spice Field Kitchen’s Chief Operating Officer Steven Baker oversaw development of the curriculum. A licensed educator for 20 years, he spent 16 years as a teacher in Lorain and has dual licensure in integrated social studies and special education as an intervention specialist. “Anybody at any age can learn something new about food and cooking. Exposure at a young age leads to foundational changes in a person’s relationship with food,” says Baker. “We want to show everyone how simple, fun and rewarding it can be to be more involved in your food system.” Spice Field Kitchen has been working with different Northeast Ohio classrooms since 2017, including Parma City Schools, Tremont Montessori, Welsh Academy at St. Ignatius High School, and more. “We find it so important for students to learn about fresh and healthy foods,” Patrick says. “They’re creating their eating habits at a young age. This helps them develop healthier habits throughout life.”
Celebrating National Foster Care Month Home For
Northeast Ohio Parent Blogger Recipe Picks
READING ROOM
(
A While
Melissa Koski Carney, Northeast Ohio Parent blogger of “I Crashed the Web “ shares her Chocolate Energy Bites (no tree nuts!) Makes 20-24 balls.
By Lauren Kerstein and illustrated by Natalia Moore
Calvin is in foster care, and he wants to trust someone, anyone, but is afraid to open his heart. He has lived in a lot of houses, but he still hasn’t found his home. When he moves in with Maggie, she shows him respect, offers him kindness, and makes him see things in himself that he’s never noticed before.
Kinda Like Brothers By Coe Booth
Jarrett doesn’t trust Kevon. But he’s got to share a room with him anyway. It was one thing when Jarrett’s mom took care of foster babies who needed help. But this time it’s different. This time the baby who needs help has an older brother — a kid Jarrett’s age named Kevon. Everyone thinks Jarrett and Kevon should be friends — but that’s not gonna happen. This is a story of two boys who really don’t get along — but have to find a way to figure it out.
CHOCOLATE ENERGY BITES (no tree nuts!) Here’s what you need: 1/2 cup oats 1/2 cup shredded coconut 1/4 cup flaxseed 1/4 cup cocoa powder 12 ounces pitted Medjool dates (if dates are dry, you may need to soak in water for 15 minutes before making the recipe) 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
Here’s what you do: Place oatmeal and coconut in the bowl of a food processor and pulse until finely ground. Add flaxseed, cocoa powder, dates and sunflower seeds. Pulse to combine until the mixture comes together into a very sticky dough. Roll into small balls, and store at room temperature. If they won’t be eaten in a few days, feel free to keep in freezer or fridge to last longer.
“My son is at a nut-free school, so we’re always looking for fun and easy tree-nut-free snack ideas,” Koski Carney says. “These are easy to make and a fun treat. To make them extra kid-friendly, feel free to roll in sprinkles or add mini M&Ms for a sweet treat.” “NOTE: These contain coconut, a common allergen, so check with your friends before sharing.”
Reshuffled: Stories of Hope and Resilience from Foster Care By Tracy Gharbo and Linda Palmer
Within “Reshuffled,” former foster children share their trials and strategies to gain footing in their unpredictable lives with the hope that their stories can model, inspire, and encourage youth facing similar situations today.
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Worth
NOTING
Winners Announced for Maltz Museum of Jewish Heritage ‘Stop the Hate’ Contest
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acqueline Hudak, junior at Lakewood High School, was sitting in the basement with her family, watching the Maltz Museum of Jewish Heritage’s “Stop the Hate” Awards Ceremony over Zoom. As a contest finalist, she could receive the scholarship for high school students who wrote essays speaking out against bias and bigotry. But she didn’t have much hope for a win until her name was announced as the grand prize winner, awarding her a $20,000 scholarship. “We were jumping up and down,” she said after hearing she’d won the contest. “It was really cool.” Jacqueline was one of the top 20 high school finalists who read their contest essays in the Maltz Museum’s first online ceremony in its 14-year history. The ‘Youth Speak Out,’ essay writing contest for students, and Youth Sing Out, songwriting for classrooms provides scholarships and grants for middle school and high school students, and their schools. Her essay was about advocating for body positivity for girls, specifically calling out
10 | Family Living at Its Best
By Angela Gartner
body-shaming of female athletes in sports. She provided an example of her high school volleyball team tryouts, where the coach picked the team based on the athletes’ weight and height rather than their playing skill. According to Jacqueline, this coach’s actions were traumatizing for the players, which led her to advocate for his dismissal and promote body positivity for others. “There were so many good stories,” Jacqueline says of the finalists’ essays. She says her biggest goal was to start a conversation, to get people thinking about the topic.
“I think it’s important, especially now with all the comparisons on social media,” she says. “People need to feel comfortable enough in their own skin, especially teens. It’s a timely topic.” Amy Garritano, English teacher at Lakewood High School, says her class is all about finding voice and confidence in and through writing. “Jacquie’s success in this contest is well-earned and much deserved,” she says. “By offering our students the opportunity to use their voice to reach an audience beyond the classroom, I hope to instill in them the realization that their voice matters, their story matters – the realization that they matter. The Maltz Museum’s Stop the Hate Contest is the perfect vehicle through which to do this. The stories of each and every single student who enters matter, and I love that Jacquie is able to use hers to support and inspire those whose voices may never be heard.” Visit maltzmuseum.org for contest winners.
2022! f o s s a l c congrats GO MAKE A DIFFERENCE!
May 2022 - NortheastOhioParent.com
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20
Education
CORNER
Ways to Thank Teachers There’s no doubt teachers hold a special place in most parents’ hearts. After all, they’re the ones getting to know our kids — and teaching children what they need to know in order to succeed. How can we let teachers know how much they mean to our kids and families? When it comes to thanking teachers, small meaningful gestures can mean the most. Here are 20 ways to thank teachers before summer break begins. By Denise Koeth
1. Have Kids Create. Whether it’s a handmade craft at the preschool level, writing a poem of thanks at the elementary level, or a silly video produced at the high school level.
2. Send Sweet Treats Try to find out a teacher’s favorite indulgent treat, then gift them with a local option.
3. Lighten Their Load The last
day of school for students is typically not the last day for teachers. Ask the teacher if there’s anything you and your child can do to help.
4. Make a Classroom Donation. Ask your
11. Give Handwritten Thanks Often, the most
meaningful gift is a note of heartfelt thanks. Write a note telling them why you appreciate them and how they helped your child thrive.
12. Help Them Plan Ahead Help your
child’s teacher get a jump start on planning by giving them a calendar for the upcoming year.
13. Give a Monthly Gift There are many subscription boxes that give recipients a monthly surprise. Find out some of the teacher’s interests, then select a subscription to match.
child’s teacher if they need anything for next year’s classroom, or if they have a wish list of special items they hope to purchase some day then donate.
14. Organize a Card Shower Coordinate with
5. Provide a Meal Bring in breakfast or lunch
for your child’s teacher — or if your budget allows, bring coffee and bagels for the entire staff and place them in the teachers’ lounge.
school parents as possible and have kids meet at the school one evening, with the school’s permission, write encouraging messages to teachers and draw pictures.
6. Give a Gift Card While this may not be
16. Donate to a Charity If there’s a cause you
unique, it’s always appreciated.
7. Praise Them If your child’s teacher did
an amazing job, speak up! Tell the school’s administrator how much you appreciate them.
8. Send in Flowers Fresh flowers are always
appreciated. Send them in with your child or have them delivered to the school. If a store-bought arrangement isn’t in your budget, help your child pick a simple wildflower bouquet — it’s the thought that counts.
9. Send Fresh Fruit Whether it’s a delivered
arrangement or a fruit basket assembled at home, giving your child’s teacher a healthy boost of energy will brighten their day.
10. Keep Them Caffeinated If your child’s
teacher is a coffee or tea drinker, put together a gift bag filled with coffee beans or tea leaves, plus accessories like an insulated mug, tea diffuser, chocolate stirrers and more.
12 | Family Living at Its Best
all the parents in your child’s class to mail or have the kids bring in cards of thanks on the same day.
15. Chalk the Walk Get in touch with as many
know your child’s teacher is passionate about, consider making a donation in their honor.
17. Stock Their Stationery From kind
messages to thank-you notes, teachers send a lot of cards. Restock their supply.
18. Help Them Relax. Help them find their zen with a gift card to a local spa or a gift bag filled with items to pamper themselves at home.
19. Curate a Playlist If you know the teacher’s
favorite kind of music, have your child create a Spotify playlist. Not sure about their favorites? Use classic hits or create a few playlists with different genres, so they can match the music to their mood.
20. Help Them Haul Teachers haul around a
lot of stuff. Find a fun tote bag or order a canvas one as a gift that will help them get from school to home — and back — in style.
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- Foster Profile • Sponsored Content -
(330) 379-1990 inquiry@summitkids.org
summitkids.org
T
here are more than 800 children in the custody of SCCS and all need a safe, loving, caring home. Nearly 40% of these children are placed with kinship families; however, the remaining children need foster homes. SCCS currently has about 170 foster homes. Not nearly enough. So, the need is ongoing and urgent! We need families to care for all ages of children, but especially infants, sibling groups, and teenagers. We need families who will care for children like their own and help their families get healthy again so the children can safely return home.
Be the Reason Children
are Safe!
Become a
Foster Parent.
o
14 | Family Living at Its Best
Joe and Elizabeth Marcello Joe and Elizabeth Marcello have been licensed foster parents for Summit County Children Services (SCCS) for approximately six years. The Marcello’s have a 12-year-old biological daughter, a 9-year-old biological son and a 4-yearold son who they adopted in February 2021. Currently, the Marcello’s have placement of a one-year-old foster son who has been with them since April 2021. Over the past six years, the Marcello family have fostered a total of four children and have continued to have relationships with all of them after they reunified with family. Joe and Elizabeth believe that children are a true blessing! They had always thought about fostering, but it wasn’t until they went to an informa-
tional meeting that they decided to “take a leap of faith” and give fostering a go. They love the idea of having a positive impact on a child’s life even if it’s for a short amount of time. They are strong advocates for the children in their home, as well as being advocates for the biological parents. The Marcello’s shared that “the entire process has been incredibly humbling, and we are so lucky to have established lifelong relationships not only with the children, but their biological families as well.” The Marcello’s SCCS Foster Home Coordinator Amy Peresta commented, “I just enjoy the Marcello family! They are very responsive, flexible and are committed to working with and supporting birth families.”
MAY IS NATIONAL
Foster Care
Month
THANK YOU TO OUR FOSTER PARENTS for BEING THE REASON KIDS are SAFE. Become a foster parent today! 330.379.1990 | summitkids.org | May 2022 - NortheastOhioParent.com
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GRADUATING FROM THE
Pandemic TEENS AND THEIR FAMILIES FIND WAYS TO CELEBRATE THE NEXT STEPS
By Georgia Lattas
R
achel Bowser has seen the toll COVID took on her daughter Emma’s high school experience – this is the first year Emma has had all in-person classes since the pandemic began. “Emma has had remote classes since 2020,” Rachel Bowser says. “It’s really bittersweet for her, because on one hand, she gets to be in-person her last year with all her friends. But on the other hand, she has to focus on graduating and going to college and being an adult.” Emma, a senior at Berea-Midpark High School, says the pandemic has had a huge effect on her senior class and her classmates’ dynamics with one another. “The pandemic definitely made us all antisocial,” Emma says. “It really made us all break away from each other. I think if we [had been] all together in-person, I think the senior class would be a lot closer.”
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This year, Berea-Midpark High School is celebrating graduation outdoors for the second straight year. Masks are optional, and students are allowed to bring seven people or fewer to the ceremony. Commencement will take place in the front yard of the high school, and bleachers will be set up in a U-shape for parents and families. That way, graduates will be seated in the center. The ceremony will also be live streamed. “Commencement will be different as well as some senior traditions,” Rachel Bowser says. While graduation remains outdoors, other activities are back to normal: the spring musical will take place in-person, and prom will be in-person indoors. For families, they are deciding how to safely celebrate their graduates after their teens step across the stage and grab their diplomas. The Bowser family plans to have a family dinner after graduation and will throw a graduation party for Emma. Bowser says she knows some families who are choosing not to throw a graduation party and are instead taking their graduate out of state for vacation. “Our family is looking into getting a food truck for Emma’s graduation party,” she says. “That is definitely the new trend. Emma was thinking of a taco bar and Kona Ice to cater shaved ice.” Emma has been a cheerleader since the seventh grade, so the family will center the party around her love for cheerleading.
Cap & Gown CELEBRATIONS
Graduation is a time to celebrate one’s achievement – from preschool graduation to college commencement. For many, school and graduation plans have looked differently due to COVID over the past few years. Families are hoping to make their loved one’s big day extra special. Here are some fun ways to celebrate your graduates. Create a photo album
Take your child’s school photos and organize them in a photo album. If you are throwing a graduation party, leave a blank page next to each school photo and have your loved ones write their favorite memory with the graduate that year.
Brag about them on social media
Share your graduate’s accomplishments on social media. Post them in their cap and gown with diploma in hand. Let your family and friends know about your graduate’s hard work!
Letters of Love
Have loved ones write a letter to your graduate. If your child is graduating eighth grade and is age 14, have 8 or 14 people write your graduate a letter on tips to succeed in high school. If your child is 18 and graduating from high school, have 12 or 18 people write them a letter sending them well wishes for college.
Decorate their cap
If your child is receiving a cap and gown, find unique ways to decorate their cap. Use school colors, funny phrases, or meaningful words of wisdom. Have your child wear this on their big day.
PHOTOS BY MEMORIES BY STEPHANIE
Childhood Clothesline
While graduation is bittersweet for Emma, she is looking forward to enrolling in college. She hopes to spend her freshman and sophomore years at Cuyahoga Community College’s Western Campus in Parma and her junior and senior years at Cleveland State University. While Tri-C does offer hybrid, in-person and 100% online classes, for Emma, she will be online in her first semester unless there is a lab, in which she will go in person. “It is kind of sad, because I got used to in-person high school and now I will be online again for college,” Emma says. “Hopefully by next year, things are back to normal,” Rachel Bowser says.
Create a childhood clothesline that represents their time in school. If your child wore uniforms, hang up their uniforms from over the years. If your child wore dress-down clothes, display their favorite outfit from each year. Childhood clotheslines make for great photo ops.
Buy them a ticket to their favorite concert
Many concerts have been canceled in the last few years due to COVID. Surprise your grad by buying them a ticket to their favorite music star. Get creative with the delivery – hand them an envelope with lyrics written on them, send them on a scavenger hunt to find clues about the artist.
Take them on vacation
Celebrate your graduate by taking them to their favorite vacation spot. Send them clues throughout the week of where they are going — if you are going somewhere with a beach, place sand buckets, sunscreen and other goodies in different areas of your house. Have your child piece together where they will be heading!
Throw a graduation party
Invite family and friends to celebrate your graduate. Let your child choose what food will be served. Choose a theme – if your child was involved with a band, have instrument decorations, balloons the color of their instrument, and so forth.
Display their diploma or cap and gown
As simple as it seems, celebrate your graduate by displaying their cap and gown or diploma in the home. Show them that you are proud of all they have accomplished.
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18 Family Living Living at at Its Its Best Best 18 | Family
NortheastOhioParent.com
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200 + Cool Things To Do
HIT THE BEACH Ways to Play in the Sand
WHEEL SAFETY Get Kids to Wear Helmets & Pads
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Sponsored by:
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TEENS OFF SCREENS Balancing Time In and Outdoors
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HIT THE BEACH Northeast Ohio provides plenty of opportunities to play in and enjoy the water.
Summe r
Fun Guide
PHOTO SUBMITTED BY CLEVELAND METROPARKS
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50 WAYS TO EXPLORE THE NATURE CENTER Park systems around the region have inside and outdoor spaces to enjoy. Find ways your family can make the most of their visits.
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SUMMER HELMET SAFETY Akron Children’s Hospital shares the importance of wearing safety equipment like pads and helmets.
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TEARING TEENS AWAY FROM SCREENS With the pandemic, teens got used to being indoors. Here are some ways to help balance their time.
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SUMMER FUN LISTINGS Plan your family’s ultimate summer with our lineup of spots for fun, from outdoor recreation to indoor play places, and everything in between.
S-20 SU M M E R FUN E N HAN C E D LISTINGS
For More Summer Fun, visit NortheastOhioParent.com
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Sponsored by:
e h t g n i k a M Most of a
Family Beach Day
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By Ginny McCabe
amilies don’t have to go out of town to plan a fun day at the beach. Northeast Ohio has plenty of places to play in the sand, go boating, fishing and more. Here’s how to get prepared for the beach day, along with some of the things you might find once you arrive. A SUMMERTIME DESTINATION
“The beaches are clean, safe and popular, and there are lots of things to do in the area. Some activities may not be available on the beach, but they are available in the neighboring towns,” says Jill Bauer, public relations manager of Shores & Islands Ohio. For example, you may visit Nickel Plate Beach during the day, and then head over to the boat basin just on the other side of the water. That’s where they are going to have the outdoor concert series or movies. There are also restaurants and a pier to visit. So there are a lot of things to do in the nearby towns. East Harbor is part of a state park, so they have a campground and a nature center, as well as ongoing activities for families and kids. “A lot of our beaches are destinations,” Bauer says. She advises families to plan ahead and be prepared for what you’re hoping to get out of the day. “It’s a good idea to look ahead at what beach you’re visiting and know what amenities they have,” Bauer says. “So you know if they have snacks available, or if you’re allowed to bring your own. Or if you are going to leave and grab a bite to eat, if there are restaurants within walking distance and things like that. Just be prepared for those kinds of things.” Rentals are available at some area beaches, but at others, you may have to bring your
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Edgewater Beach Photo submitted by Cleveland Metroparks
own equipment to play. Families will also want to make a checklist, so they don’t forget essentials like towels, sunscreen, flip flops, an umbrella, and a first-aid kit, she says. “It’s knowing if those things are going to be available there or not. For example, they are at Nickel Plate,” Bauer says. “You don’t want to end up somewhere and realize you forgot something major. Being prepared, planning ahead, and knowing what to expect, or if you’re going to need cash with you for any kind of parking fee, and how far you’re going to have to walk from the parking lot. Those are some of the key things to keep in mind.” Generally, the top things guests want to know is if there are restrooms, changing rooms, and if there are food options available. Amenities and rules may vary from one beach to another.
Keep SAFETY in Mind
INSIDER TIPS
“We have thousands of people per day at the beach on those classic summer days,” says Gary Gerrone, state park manager of Geneva State Park and Headlands Beach State Park. “We have plenty of beaches to accommodate everybody.” He said Headlands Beach State Park, a recreational beach, and its neighbors, Headlands Dunes State Nature Preserve and Mentor Marsh, a state nature preserve, create a complex that is unlike any other place in Ohio. “It’s one of the best places in Ohio for bird-watching,” Gerrone says. “It’s also one of the best butterfly migration sites. It’s unbelievable what you see in late August through September, especially on certain weather days when the light, north wind is blowing, the monarchs come by the thou-
Jacqueline Gerling, director of communications at Cleveland Metroparks, recommends that guests swim only during guarded hours at all Metroparks beaches. She said swimming and beach conditions are regularly updated during guarded swimming hours and can be found on the Cleveland Metroparks website. Whatever beach you choose to visit, follow the posted signage and be advised of any warnings prior to swimming. There could be high winds, storms, or times when it’s advised that guests do not swim in a particular area. Many beaches also ask that guests bring their own trash bag or container
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sands, if not tens of thousands. It’s amazing. It’s a beautiful sight.” He said the City of Mentor presents Headlands BeachFest on July 16 with sandcastles and sand sculptures, which will be on view at the beach for the rest of the summer. Beach-glass hunting at Headlands Beach State Park and Geneva State Park Beach is another popular activity. Amy Cossick, village administrator for Fairport Harbor, says it’s good to know the communities the beaches are in, so you know what else is nearby, or what else you can take advantage of, such as restaurants, ice cream shops, museums and other area attractions. Locals can help lead you to hidden gems like a skating rink or an arcade. Arrive early to get the best parking space, or to find a spot in the shade, if you prefer not being in the direct sun.
to pack up and dispose of any items they bring with them to the beach. “Cleveland Metroparks works hard to keep up with maintenance across the park district,” she says. “We encourage guests to ‘pack in, pack out’: bring a suitable trash bag for any disposable items you may have. Please help our team by taking home the disposable items you bring into the parks. Guests will be fined for littering.” Bauer adds that beachgoers should leave valuables such as phones at home, or else they could get left on the beach or broken. They should also remember to bring any needed medications. If they have questions, or need additional information, they can also stop by a local visitors center.
HERE ARE A FEW AREA BEACHES FOR FAMILIES TO CHECK OUT: Cedar Point Beach
Headlands Beach State Park
1 Cedar Point Dr., Sandusky 419- 627-2350 • cedarpoint.com
Located next to Cedar Point and operated by the park, this popular beach stretches about a mile along Lake Erie. Guests can play volleyball, build sandcastles, or take in some rays. Lifeguards are on site. Plus, there’s a boardwalk with restaurants on the beach. Cedar Point beach is accessible to all amusement and water park guests, overnight visitors staying at a Cedar Point property, and season passholders. Guests can enhance their beach visit with add-on experiences, such as parasailing, jet skiing, kayaking, or paddle boarding. Boat rentals and boardwalk tours are also available.
East Harbor State Park
1169 N. Buck Rd. (SR 269 N), Marblehead 419-734-4424 ext. 2 • ohiodnr.gov Part of the state park system, Marblehead offers a 1,500-foot sandy beach. It’s one of the largest and most popular publicly-accessible beaches in the area. There is a bathhouse on site, with restrooms and changing areas. Pets are permitted in designated areas. East Harbor State Park also features 11 hiking and biking trails and an onsite campground. Bike rentals are available. Free admission, no parking fees. Beach space may be limited when water levels are high. There’s also a nature center nearby. Various activities, classes and animal programs are available through East Harbor State Park. There’s a lighthouse in Marblehead.
Edgewater Beach
Lakefront Reservation, Cleveland 216-635-3200 • clevelandmetroparks.com
Edgewater Beach, located in lower Edgewater Park, has something for everyone. Make a day of it and rent a cabana along the shoreline, or join a pick-up game of beach volleyball. Stroll along the beach while enjoying a delicious scoop of Honey Hut ice cream from the Edgewater Beach House. The 2,400-foot beach features 1,000 feet of swimming access. The westernmost portion of the beach is dog-friendly. Guests can explore the nearby trails, grab a bite from The Noshery or Edgewater Beach House, enjoy the sunrise and sunset. Programming opportunities are available at all locations. Download the free Cleveland Metroparks mobile app to view upcoming programs.
Fairport Harbor Lakefront Park Beach 301 Huntington Beach Drive, Fairport Harbor, 440-256-2118 fairportharbor.org • lakemetroparks.com
Maintained by Lake Metroparks, this park with a family-friendly beach is open year-round, including the beach off-season. Boardwalk is easily accessible to the beachfront where guests can view the harbor, see a sunset and the lighthouse. Other amenities include a playground, portable restrooms, benches, pavilion areas with picnic tables, paved trails and more. Fairport Harbor Lakefront Park also serves as a sanctuary for wildlife, and guests alike. Boating, kayaking and fishing are among the popular activities at the beach. In addition to the live activities on the beach, guests can take a break, walk up the hill to the Fairport Harbor Creamery, or take a tour of one of the museums, such as the Fairport Harbor Marine Museum and Lighthouse and the Finnish Heritage Museum.
Geneva State Park Beach
9601 Headlands Road, Mentor • 440-466-8400 • ohiodnr.gov Headlands Beach State Park is 35 acres of beach on Lake Erie. There’s a paved trail that runs along the back dunes of the beach. Beach mats allow people with mobility issues to better reach the water line. This lakeshore sand dune habitat supports rare and unique plants, and the park is one of Ohio’s premier birding locations. Headlands Beach State Park is a recreational beach, but it has some neighbors that are quite different, such as Headlands Dunes State Nature Preserve, and Mentor Marsh, a state nature preserve. (Ohio State Parks do not have admission fees.)
Huntington Beach
Lake Road, Bay Village 216-635-3200 • clevelandmetroparks.com
Situated in Huntington Reservation and located on Cleveland’s west side in Bay Village, enjoy the beauty of Lake Erie from this scenic beach. While you’re there, check out The Noshery, featuring food, traditional concessions, and Honey Hut ice cream. The Noshery offers cocktails and craft beer for guests to enjoy in the Sunset Picnic Plaza.
Kelleys Island State Park
920 N. Division St., Kelleys Island, 419-746-2546 • ohiodnr.gov
Located on an island in the middle of Lake Erie, Kelleys Island State Park Beach is another popular beach in Ohio. The beach also offers kid-friendly, gradual water depth. The beachfront area stretches about 100 ft. long. Other amenities include a small boat launch, and a walking and fishing pier. For added fun, kayak rentals are available on the beach. This is also a great place to search for beach glass. Near the state park campground, which includes a playground, hiking trails and a picnic shelter. No lifeguards. Dogs are permitted if they are on a leash.
Lakeside Beach — Lakeside Chautauqua
236 Walnut Ave., Lakeside 419-798-4461 • lakesideohio.com
Lakeside Beach is a perfect location to swim or sunbathe. In-season, lifeguards are on duty throughout the week. A gate fee is required Memorial Day through Labor Day. Adjacent to the main beach area, families with small children can also visit a separate, fenced-in kiddie pool and splash park, which runs along the shoreline. A parent or guardian must accompany children.
Main Street Beach
Main St. (off US 6), Vermilion 440-204-2490 • cityofvermilion.com
This sandy Lake Erie beach features an observation platform, a concession stand, and the Vermilion Lighthouse. The beach also offers chair and umbrella rentals, as well as a mobile snack bar. (The park is currently undergoing an expansion.) Guests will want to visit the nearby shops and restaurants. The beach is also within walking distance from Downtown Vermilion. In Vermilion, you can rent fishing poles from the library with a valid driver’s license.
Nickel Plate Beach
4499 Padanarum Road, Geneva • 440-466-8400 • ohiodnr.gov Located on Ohio’s northeastern shoreline, Geneva State Park’s 698 acres reflect the beauty of Lake Erie. The lake attracts vacationers who enjoy fishing and boating. Swimmers enjoy the beautiful sand beach, while nature enthusiasts retreat to the park’s freshwater marshes and estuaries. Rentals are available such as kayaks, jet skis and charter boats for Walleye fishing opportunities. There are also hiking trails and forested areas. Geneva State Park is a classic state park with overnight accommodations that include a family campground, cedar cabins, rooms at the lodge, and cottages. (If you’re planning an overnight stay, book early.) There’s a lot to do in the park, as well as in the surrounding community, such as Geneva on the Lake, with its restaurants, shops, bars and live music.
Nickel Plate Dr. (off US 6 E), Huron 419-433-8487 • cityofhuron.org
Operated by the City of Huron, Nickel Plate Beach is an expansive sandy beach with scenic views of Lake Erie sunrises, sunsets, and the Huron Lighthouse. Other amenities include a picnic shelter, picnic tables, grills, a playground, portable restrooms, ping pong tables, corn hole boards, and beach volleyball courts (guests should bring their own game equipment). Guests can also rent rafts, paddle boards, kayaks and other beach gear like chairs and blankets from The Paddle Shack. Memorial Day-Labor Day, No lifeguard on duty; swim at your own risk. Things not to miss are the lighthouse and pier as well as the shops and restaurants in the area.
Villa Angela Beach
Euclid Creek Reservation • 440-331-8111 • clevelandmetroparks.com A favorite location for swimming, Villa Angela Beach in Euclid Creek Reservation offers scenic views of Lake Erie with plenty of shorefront access. The beach is also a popular destination for bird and monarch butterfly watching.
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50
Ways
Explore and Adore
to
NATURE
T
By Angela Gartner
he region’s park systems have many offerings for families. Travel to one of their nature centers and farms, which often provide an in-depth look at the park’s history, animals, and interactive exhibits for all ages to enjoy. There are also plenty of outdoor activities around or near the centers. With summer break, these provide a perfect opportunity for a family day of exploration in nature. Here are 50 ways to make the most of your time outdoors.
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1. Grab a nature book and read outdoors. 2. Pick a spot for nature drawing. 3. Attend a nature program. 4. Practice reading in the wildlife viewing areas. 5. See the stars. 6. Have an outdoor picnic. 7. Play and learn in indoor play places. 8. Help kids identify spring and summer birds. 9. Take a blanket and sing songs outside. 10. Have kids take nature photos. 11. Bring a walking stick for a hike. 12. Play a ‘Nature ABC’ or ‘I Spy’ game. 13. Ask about volunteer opportunities. 14. Learn about insects seen in parks. 15. Visit the gift shop. 16. Identify what animals eat in the park. 17. Bring a stuffed animal to a self-guided tour. 18. Hike the unpaved trail with your teens. 19. Ask about the baby animals. 20. Visit the water spaces near centers (just leave the rocks alone). 21. Look for animal tracks or scat. 22. Ask a naturalist a question. 23. Put on a nature play. 24. Talk to kids about Ohio’s natural habitats. 25. Learn about the pond’s wildlife. 26. Teach the kids how to read a trail map. 27. Identify the native flowers and plants. 28. Ask about nature art exhibits. 29. Go geocaching. 30. Create a nature scavenger hunt. 31. Stop and listen to nature. 32. Walk on a stroller-friendly trail. 33. Grab binoculars for nature viewing. 34. Explore the center’s history. 35. Identify the trees. 36. Visit a center planetarium. 37. Check out at-home printables and programs. 38. Write a family park story. 39. Go on a bike-friendly trail. 40. Visit the live-animal exhibits. 41. Play in the outdoor spaces. 42. Count the nature items. 43. Plan an outdoor family photo. 44. Go fishing, where permitted. 45. See the butterflies. 46. Learn how to donate to park wildlife. 47. Book an outdoor party space. 48. Use the exercise stations. 49. Learn about wildlife rehabilitation programs. 50. Make a list of the animals seen in the park.
LORAIN COUNTY METRO PARKS’
Summer
CONCERT S E R I E S
F R E E T O AT T E N D ! LAKEVIEW SUNSET CONCERTS Lakeview Park, 1800 W. Erie Ave., Lorain Friday evenings in July | 6:00 p.m.
MUSIC UNDER THE STARS
Lakeview Park, 1800 W. Erie Ave., Lorain Sun., Aug. 14 & Sun., Sept. 11 | 6:00 p.m.
VERMILION RIVER RESERVATION SUMMER CONCERT SERIES 51211 N. Ridge Rd., Vermilion Sunday evenings | June 12-Aug. 14 | 6:30 p.m.
MUSIC ON THE PATIO
Miller Nature Preserve, 2739 Center Rd., Avon 2nd & 4th Thursday of the month | June 9-Sept. 8 6:30 p.m.
F U L L S C H E D U L E AVA I L A B L E O N L I N E AT:
WWW.LORAINCOUNTYMETROPARKS.COM/WHATS-HAPPENING
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SUMMER HELMET SAFETY By Akron Children’s Hospital Summer is the time for outdoor play — capture the flag, hideand-seek, and any number of new games kids make up with friends and neighbors. Running, skating and cycling are healthy activities that build muscle and strengthen bones. Hopefully, they will set kids on a course of living active lifestyles for life. Warm weather also means kids will be arriving in ERs after bicycle accidents, skateboard and scooter mishaps, and rollerblade wipe-outs, and with injuries from minor to life-threatening. According to Safe Kids Worldwide, 40 percent of parents surveyed admitted that their children don’t always wear a helmet while riding, even though more than 426,000 children — nearly 50 an hour — visited an emergency department due to a wheeled-sport injury. In 2021, Akron Children’s treated 58 patients for all-terrain vehicle-related injuries, with 55 percent not wearing a helmet. Of the 80 children treated for bicycle-related injuries, 89 percent were not wearing a helmet. And of the 22 patients treated for skateboarding injuries, none wore a helmet. “My standard comment to parents is ‘Most parts of the body you hurt will heal — except the brain,’” says Dr. Joseph Iocono, pediatric surgeon at Akron Children’s Hospital. “That’s the bad news. The good news is helmets are 85 to 87 percent effective in reducing your risk of a brain injury. It’s imperative that all kids wear helmets all the time on bikes and other wheeled vehicles.” About 30 percent of these children had some type of head injury (most likely their primary diagnosis), and more than a third required surgery.
“Scrapes and scratches mend,” Iocono says. “Broken bones heal, and other injuries typically have good outcomes, especially in childhood. But traumatic brain injuries can have life-long consequences.” Heather Trnka, injury prevention coalition supervisor for Akron Children’s, offers these tips to avoid helmet hassles and keep kids safe: • Make it a habit. Start at the youngest age, and require the helmet each and every time, from the shortest ride on the cul-de-sac to the hours-long ride on the trails. • Practice what you preach. Adults should wear proper fitting helmets all the time also. • Let kids have a say in their helmet color and style. • To make sure your child’s helmet fits correctly, they should have about two finger-widths between their eyebrows and the rim of the helmet. The strap should be slightly tight, but comfortable. • Always do a quick bike check before riding. Look for proper air in tires and working brakes and chains.
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• Wear closed-toed shoes when cycling. • Keep a few extra helmets on hand for your kids’ friends who arrive on bikes without head protection. • Don’t ride wearing earbuds. • As a general rule, children should not ride alone in streets until at least age 13. • When riding on sidewalks, watch for cars backing out of driveways. • Bicycle deaths are most likely to occur in the summer or fall, and are most likely to happen during dusk, at times when both vehicle and bicycle traffic is higher and visibility decreases. • Teach your child about hand signals and other traffic rules. Akron Children’s has partnered with the Goodyear Foundation to create the Safe Mobility Project, expanding child safety programs focusing on child passenger seats, bike helmets and teen drivers. A helmet fit test and information about proper correct usage of child passenger safety seats and tips for teen drivers can be found here: safemobilityproject.com
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Navigating Electronics with Kids in the Summer
Y
By Dr. Jay Berk
ears ago, parents had to “drag” their child inside when the streetlights clicked on. Nowadays, many parents struggle to get their child outside. The pandemic has kept children and adolescents inside for almost two years. They have lost social skills and other skills, such as gross motor. They also have become accustomed to a dopamine rush, a proven fact from video games. It’s hard to get that same dopamine rush from other activities, and thus one must be diligent and aware of the reinforcement schedule that video games provide young people nowadays. Video game gross revenue greatly outpaces that of the music and movie industries combined. Video games became extremely popular, especially when two things happened: gaming became mobile, but more importantly, gaming became social. Perhaps you have heard a thousand times from your child, “All my friends are on the games, too.” Parents don’t want their child to miss out, so if all their friends are on games, many parents give in and let them play games they don’t want them to play, or at times when they want them to do other activities. Navigating electronics in summer can be difficult for parents. It is difficult because parents are busy, and children and adolescents can be very stubborn in not wanting to get off the games and sneaky in how they get on the games. It is hard to control when they have access to their games. Honesty and integrity are issues to be concerned with, and much more. Here are some tips that might be helpful to you as a parent if you are working on getting a balance this summer: • Talk to your child about honesty and integrity. Work on continuing to build a relationship with your child or adolescent so that if they make a promise regarding games or social media, they will stick to it. If they break it, don’t get angry, get investigative. In other words, figure out why they broke the agreement. Was it something going on on social media that they were embarrassed about? Are they addicted to the games? Be a good detective, not a yelling parent.
• Get the whole family involved. If your entire family is included, it’s more likely the child or adolescent is going to be involved in the process. For example, make a list of activities, put them in a hat, and have someone pick one out. That way, you can rotate who picks the activities and what activities are available. A second idea is to get the family involved in a new family activity that everyone can do. Pick something that may be different, that they normally wouldn’t do, such as archery, fishing, boating, or hiking. Make it a family affair, and make it fun.
• Consistency of parenting is the key. Most of the time when I am working with children and adolescents with electronic problems, I find inconsistency in parenting in the home. All parental figures must be united in what the rules are and enforce the rules equally. I suggest having a basic amount of electronics time that a child or adolescent can have in a day and then doing “pay to play,” i.e., if they do extra things, such as volunteer in the community, they can earn extra time. • Don’t make electronics evil; make them just part of the day. Electronics themselves can be an interesting hobby. For example, nowadays there are esports teams forming in schools. It is when things are out of balance that there is a problem. Keeping the balance is the key. Therefore, don’t have an argument with your child or adolescent about not playing electronics or games at all, but try to work on a problem-solving agreement about what is reasonable. Include all electronics in the deal: phones, TV, iPads, computers, etc. Otherwise, the child or adolescent will just switch from one device to another.
• Research activities the child or adolescent can do in the summer. After researching, have them pick one of maybe three that you agree are good picks. This gives them a
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feeling of some control over what they are doing, rather than being told they must do one particular activity. • Look at camps and programs. There are many unique programs available now for children, young adolescents, and even older adolescents that were not available years ago. For example, at my office we have a day program that works on social skills and STEM activities, as well as an overnight camp that works on social skills and electronic reduction. • Have a plan ahead of time. Oftentimes parents are caught in a pressured situation where they make an impulsive decision and then are stuck with it. If you are caught in such a pressured situation where you don’t know what to do, tell your child or adolescent: “I need to think about this before I answer you.” Generally it’s not an emergency, so take a deep breath, take some time, and reflect. • Seek professional help, if needed. Some children and adolescents can become very aggressive, verbally abusive, oppositional, and difficult about getting off electronics in the summer. If you are having this problem, seek professional help. Even if your child won’t go, you can go yourself and get advice. Dr. Berk is a psychologist, author, and coach who works with clients including children, adolescents, adults, and families locally and around the world. He is the author of two books, “Parent’s Guide to Electronic Addiction,” and “Code-Shifting: Social Skills for the Screen Age”. For more information, visit jayberkphd.com
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SUMMER EVENTS ARE BACK! Presents
CROCKER KIDS
Crocker Park in Westlake
FUN AT FIRST & MAIN First & Main – Hudson
presents
A Northeast Ohio Parent Event
PINECREST PLAY DAYS
I-271 & Harvard Road - Orange Village
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Join us for 2 hours of Fun in the Sun!
3 VENUES AND 12 DATES • REGISTRATION OPENS IN APRIL Keep watching our digital and social media for more announcements
SAVE THE DATES! TUESDAYS FROM 11 A.M. TO 1 P.M. May 17 - Princess/Superhero Dress-up Party June 7 - Animal Fun with Jungle Terry
July 12 - CLE Rocks Dance Party
August 2 - Foam Party Fun!
TUESDAYS FROM 10 A.M. TO 12 P.M. May 24 - Superheroes and Princesses! Oh My!
June 14 - Animal Facts with the Metroparks! July 19 - Dance Party at First and Main!
August 9 - Fantastic Foam Party!
TUESDAYS FROM 11 A.M. TO 1 P.M. May 31 - Dress-Up! Princess/Superhero Day
June 21 - Jungle Terry and His Animal Friends July 26 - Concert on the Green
August 16 - Splish Splashing Away!
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These attractions operating hours could be subject to change. Please check with venues before attending to ensure times and availability are valid and to understand health guidelines. Please visit northeastohioparent.com for more information
Historical Sites CENTURY VILLAGE MUSEUM
14653 E. Park St., Burton 440-834-1492, centuryvillagemuseum.org
A CHRISTMAS STORY HOUSE
3159 W. 11th St., Cleveland 216-298-4919, achristmasstoryhouse.com
& Tours
CUYAHOGA VALLEY SCENIC RAILROAD
GRAYS ARMORY MUSEUM
HISTORIC ZOAR VILLAGE
DUNHAM TAVERN MUSEUM
HALE FARM & VILLAGE
HOOVER HISTORICAL CENTER
Office: 1630 W. Mill St., Peninsula 330-439-5708, cvsr.com
6709 Euclid Ave., Cleveland 216-431-1060, dunhamtavern.org
GOODTIME III EXCURSION SHIP
825 E. 9th St. Pier, North Coast Harbor, Cleveland 216-861-5110, goodtimeiii.com
1234 Bolivar Road, Cleveland 216-621-5938, graysarmory.com 2686 Oak Hill Road, Bath 330-666-3711, halefarm.org
HASTINGS DAIRY
13181 Claridon Troy Road, Burton 440-635-0313, hastingsdairy.com
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198 Main St., Zoar 330-874-3011, historiczoarvillage.com
1875 E. Maple St., N. Canton 330-490-7435, walsh.edu/ hoover-historical-center.html
JAMES A. GARFIELD NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE 8095 Mentor Ave., Mentor 440-255-8722, nps.gov/jaga
Historical Sites & Tours LAKE ERIE CANOPY TOURS
Museums
AKRON ART MUSEUM 1 S. High St., Akron 330-376-9185, akronartmuseum.org
4888 N. Broadway (State Route 534), Geneva-on-the-Lake 866-601-1973, lakeeriecanopytours.com
AKRON CHILDREN’S MUSEUM
MAPLESIDE FARMS
1710 Euclid Ave., Cleveland 216-621-0178, bonfoey.com
294 Pearl Road, Brunswick 330-225-5577, mapleside.com
ROSCOE VILLAGE
600 N. Whitewoman St., Coshocton, 740-622-7644, roscoevillage.com
SAUDER VILLAGE
22611 State Route 2, Archbold 800-590-9755, saudervillage.org
ST. HELENA III CANAL BOAT RIDES
Canal Fulton Canalway Center 125 Tuscarawas St., Canal Fulton 330-854-6835, cityofcanalfulton-oh.gov
STAN HYWET HALL & GARDENS
714 N. Portage Path, Akron 330-836-5533, stanhywet.org
THE STEAMSHIP MATHER
601 Erieside Ave., Cleveland 216-694-2000, glsc.org
TREE FROG CANOPY TOURS
21899 Wally Road, Glenmont 740-599-2662, treefrogcanopytours.com
WILDWOOD CULTURAL CENTER
7645 Little Mountain Road, Mentor, 440-974-5735, cityofmentor.com
216 S. Main St. 330-396-6103, akronkids.org
INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S AIR & SPACE MUSEUM 1501 N. Marginal Road, Cleveland 216-623-1111, iwasm.org
KENT STATE UNIVERSITY MUSEUM
THE BONFOEY GALLERY
515 Hilltop Drive, Kent 330-672-3450, kent.edu/museum
CANTON CLASSIC CAR MUSEUM
LEARNING CENTER AND MONEY MUSEUM (FEDERAL RESERVE BANK OF CLEVELAND)
123 6th St. SW, Canton 330-455-3603, cantonclassiccar.org
1455 E. 6th St., Cleveland 216-579-3188, clevelandfed. org/en/learningcenter.aspx
CANTON MUSEUM OF ART
MALTZ MUSEUM OF JEWISH HERITAGE
CASTLE NOEL
MAPS AIR MUSEUM
1001 Market Ave. N, Canton 330-453-7666, cantonart.org 260 S. Court St., Medina 330-721-6635, castlenoel.com
CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF CLEVELAND
3813 Euclid Ave., Cleveland 216-791-7114, cmcleveland.org
CLEVELAND HISTORY CENTER
10825 East Blvd., Cleveland 216-721-5722, wrhs.org
CLEVELAND MUSEUM OF ART
11150 East Blvd., Cleveland 216-421-7350, clevelandart.org
CLEVELAND MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY
1 Wade Oval Drive, Cleveland 216-231-4600, cmnh.org
FAIRPORT HARBOR MARINE MUSEUM
129 Second St., Fairport Harbor 440-354-4825, fairportharborlighthouse.org
2929 Richmond Road, Beachwood, 216-593-0575, maltzmuseum.org
2260 International Parkway, N. Canton 330-896-6332, mapsairmuseum.org
MCKINLEY PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY & MUSEUM 800 McKinley Monument Drive NW, Canton 330-455-7043, mckinleymuseum.org
THE MERRY-GO-ROUND MUSEUM 301 Jackson St., Sandusky 419-626-6111, merrygoroundmuseum.org
MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART CLEVELAND 11400 Euclid Ave., Cleveland 216-421-8671, mocacleveland.org
NORTHERN OHIO RAILWAY MUSEUM
5515 Buffham Road, Seville 330-769-5501, trainweb.org/norm
PRO FOOTBALL HALL OF FAME
2121 George Halas Drive NW, Canton , 330-456-8207, profootballhof.com
THE ROCK & ROLL HALL OF FAME AND MUSEUM 1100 Rock and Roll Blvd., Cleveland 216-781-7625, rockhall.com
TRANSFORMER STATION 1460 W. 29th St., Cleveland 216-938-5429, transformerstation.org
THE TROLL HOLE MUSEUM
228 E. Main St., Alliance 330-596-1157, thetrollhole.com
Sporting Events
AKRON RUBBERDUCKS Canal Park, 300 S. Main St., Akron 330-253-5151, akronrubberducks.com
CLEVELAND GUARDIANS
Progressive Field, 2401 Ontario St., Cleveland, 216-420-4487, mlb.com/guardians
LAKE COUNTY CAPTAINS
Classic Park, 35300 Vine St., Eastlake 440-975-8085, captainsbaseball.com
LAKE ERIE CRUSHERS Mercy Health Stadium, 2009 Baseball Blvd., Avon 440-934-3636, lakeeriecrushers.com
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Nature & Science Centers
AKRON FOSSILS AND SCIENCE CENTER
2080 S. Cleveland-Massillon Road, Copley, 330-665-3466, akronfossils.com
BRECKSVILLE NATURE CENTER
9000 Chippewa Creek Drive, Brecksville, 440-526-1012, clevelandmetroparks.com
CANALWAY CENTER
4524 E. 49th St., Cuyahoga Heights 216-206-1000, clevelandmetroparks.com
COSI (CENTER OF SCIENCE & INDUSTRY) 333 W. Broad St., Columbus 614-228-2674, cosi.org
CROWN POINT ECOLOGY CENTER
3220 Ira Road, Bath 330-668-8992, crownpointecology.org
F.A. SEIBERLING NATURE REALM
1828 Smith Road, Akron 330-865-8065, summitmetroparks.org
GREAT LAKES SCIENCE CENTER
601 Erieside Ave., Cleveland 216-694-2000, greatscience.org
HOLDEN ARBORETUM
9500 Sperry Road, Kirtland 440-946-4400, holdenfg.org
LAKE ERIE NATURE AND SCIENCE CENTER
28728 Wolf Road, Bay Village 440-871-2900, lensc.org
THE NATURE CENTER AT SHAKER LAKES
2600 S. Park Blvd., Cleveland 216-321-5935, shakerlakes.org
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NORTH CHAGRIN NATURE CENTER
401 Buttermilk Falls Pkwy., Mayfield Village 440-473-3370, clevelandmetroparks.com
OENSLAGER NATURE CENTER
6100 Ridge Road, Sharon Center 330-722-9364, medinacountyparks.com
OH WOW! CHILDREN’S CENTER FOR SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
15 Central Square, Youngstown 330-744-5914, ohwowkids.org
OHIO BIRD SANCTUARY 3774 Orweiler Road, Mansfield 419-884-4295, ohiobirdsanctuary.com
ROCKY RIVER NATURE CENTER
24000 Valley Parkway, N. Olmsted 440-734-6660, clevelandmetroparks.com
SUSAN HAMBLEY NATURE CENTER
1473 Parschen Blvd., Brunswick 330-722-9364, medinacountyparks.com
THE WILDERNESS CENTER 9877 Alabama Ave. S.W., Wilmot 330-359-5235, wildernesscenter.org
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CLEVELAND CITY DANCE
AFRICAN SAFARI WILDLIFE PARK
African Safari Wildlife Park is celebrating its 54th WILD Season. They offer a one-of-a-kind opportunity to feed giraffe, zebra, bison, alpaca and more from the comfort of your own vehicle. Meet and feed hundreds of exotic animals in the 65-acre outdoor drive-thru Safari. Take a walk on the WILD side in the walk-thru Safari, and enjoy the EdZOOcation animal programs, HogWILD experience, and Aviary Adventure. Located at 267 S. Lightner Rd, Port Clinton, 1-800-5212660, africansafariwildlifepark.com
CAMP HI CANOE & KAYAK
Come paddle the State Scenic Cuyahoga River. Celebrating 50 years, Camp Hi has canoes, kayaks and stand-up paddle boards for beginners to experienced boaters. Choose a trip lasting from one to six hours. Paddles, life jackets and transportation are provided. Bring your friends and family to experience this beautiful, unspoiled river. Have an adventure in your own backyard! 12274 Abbott Road, Hiram, 330-569-7621, camphiadventure.com
CANTON PALACE THEATRE
The Canton Palace Theatre presents summer movies on Canton’s largest screen! Summer Kids Movies are Mondays at 1 p.m., open to the public, and group reservations are available. Sensory Cinema is a theater experience tailored to patrons with sensory processing disorders and their families: the lights are dimmed, the sound is lower, and dietary-sensitive offerings are available at the concession stand. Showtimes are at 6:30 p.m., box office/doors open at 6 p.m. $2 general admission for either showtime. 605 Market Ave. N., Canton, cantonpalacetheatre.org
Nurture your child’s passion, grow friendships, and build confidence, poise, and technique in inspiring camps and classes for children. Storybook-themed camps available for ages 3-8. Small classes with patient and experienced teachers, offering individual attention and encouraging each student to excel. Classes and camps include: ballet, jazz, tap, dance history and film and more. Opportunities may include museum visits, guest presentations, and performances. Looking for something for you? We have you covered, too. Home of City Ballet of Cleveland, 13108 Shaker Square, Cleveland, 216-295-2222, clevelandcitydance.com
CLAY’S PARK RESORT
Clay’s Park Resort is a destination for outdoor fun in Northeast Ohio. Spend your day swimming at the Adventure Water Park, bouncing high on jumping pillows, or putting around an 18-hole mini golf course. Spend your nights relaxing at your premium campsite or cabin, around a crackling fire. With 500 acres and just a short drive from Cuyahoga Valley National Park and historic Canal Fulton, Clay’s Park offers a breathtaking camping experience for everyone. 12951 Patterson St. NW, North Lawrence, clayspark.com
CLEVELAND METROPARKS ZOO
Visit Cleveland Metroparks Zoo and find your wild side. Connect with animals from around the world including giraffes, elephants and rhinos. See the gorillas and hand-feed a giraffe. Get close with compelling education programs like Keeper for a Day (ages 12 and older) and the Inside Tracks (ages 5 and older) behind-the-scenes tour. Get inspired and help Secure a Future For Wildlife. Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is open seven days a week. Visit FutureForWildlife.org
CLEVELAND ORCHESTRA
Tickets on sale now for the 2022 Blossom Music Festival. Northeast Ohio’s favorite summer tradition returns for 10 weeks of concerts and picnics at Blossom Music Center. The
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Cleveland Orchestra will present a mix of classical and pops concerts, along with movie presentations for audiences in its scenic summer home, Blossom Music Center, 145 W. Steels Corners Rd., Cuyahoga Falls. Visit clevelandorchestra.com for the full Blossom Music Festival schedule and health and safety protocols.
EUCLID PUBLIC LIBRARY
‘Read Beyond the Beaten Path’ this summer with the Euclid Public Library’s Summer Reading Program from June 6 to July 30. Children in sixth grade and younger are challenged to read 15 minutes a day, while teens are challenged to read 30 to 45 minutes a day. The more you read, the more entries you earn for our grand prize drawing, 631 E. 222nd St, Euclid. Visit euclidlibrary. beanstack.org or download the Beanstack Tracker app available on all app stores to get started.
GREAT LAKES SCIENCE CENTER
Get ready for an all-access backstage pass to the scientific innovations that shaped rock ‘n’ roll in The Science of Rock N’ Roll at Great Lakes Science Center, open now through September 5. Channel your inner rock star in the instruments gallery, explore the recording experience as you mix tracks, step into the karaoke booth for your turn in the spotlight, and so much more! Experience science in the key of rock, and plan your visit at greatscience.com
GREATER CLEVELAND AQUARIUM
Have you seen the suction cups on a poison dart frog’s toes? Ever watched a garden eel stretch to snatch passing prey? When did you last count the suckers on an octopus’ arm? Get up-close views of moon jellyfish, weedy seadragons, cownose stingrays, sand tiger sharks and other amazing aquatic life (but not other guests) at the Greater Cleveland Aquarium. Timed entry, limited capacity and advance reservations. Learn more at greaterclevelandaquarium.com
HERITAGE FARMS
Get away from it all without going too far. They have primitive camping sites in their tree fields to get a bit of country peace and quiet, and Shelter Camping Sites offering a bit more weather protection from April 23 to October 30. Their garden apartment offers a one-bedroom suite adjoining the farmhouse where you can relax in a private country-style suite packed with charm. Visit HeritageFarms.com or heritagefarms.com/camping-rentalprivate-events
LORAIN COUNTY METRO PARKS
The Lorain County Metro Parks offers a variety of public programs, including hikes, outdoor concerts, animal encounters, educational opportunities, and more! Lorain County Metro Parks has been caring for the landscape of your family traditions since 1957. With more than 11,000 acres of protected and public land, everyone can find a park to enjoy. Visit loraincountymetroparks.com to see what’s happening and to find your chance to enjoy nature nearby.
MAGICAL THEATRE
Professional teaching artists working in the field lovingly share their skills and knowledge with your kids. Building up their confidence and self-esteem, along 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
NATURE CENTER AT SHAKER LAKES
What will you discover when you unplug and reconnect with the outdoors? Step into the outdoor classroom nestled in the heart of the Shaker Parklands on Cleveland’s East Side. Unleash your curiosity and explore all that Northeast Ohio native habitats have to offer. The Nature Center at Shaker Lakes is free and open to the public. With over two miles of trails, and connecting trails throughout the Shaker Parklands, adventure and discovery await. 2600 South Park Blvd., Cleveland. shakerlakes.org
PINSTRIPES
Pinstripes Cleveland, located in Pinecrest, is the perfect choice for a family summer activity. Their Kid’s club offers weekday specials for dining and gaming. For ages 12 and younger, kid’s meal choices are $5, and bowling and bocce is $5 per person, per hour. Available Mondays through Thursdays, open to close. Pinstripes is open seven days a week for lunch, dinner, weekend brunch, bowling and bocce ball. Located at 111 Park Ave., Beachwood. Reservations are available at 216-415-8010 or at pinstripes.com/cleveland Where magic strikes
PORTAGE PARK DISTRICT
Find Adventure in your Portage Park District! Explore over 2,700 acres of parkland and 14 miles of hike and bike trails. You’ll find so many great opportunities for recreation and respite in nature. Join them this year for both in-person and virtual education programs, park “pop-ups”, year-round Wild Hikes Challenge, and more. Check out Owlbert’s Adventures – programs designed specifically for 3- to 6-year-old nature lovers. Visit portageparkdistrict.org for program registration and online education resources.
SUMMIT COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY
See “ewe” on Mutton Hill! The Summit County Historical Society of Akron welcomes you to join us this summer each Friday, June 3 through Sept. 2, at 10:30 a.m. Farm Fridays are for preschool through 6th grade students. Free programming is provided on the grounds of the Perkins Stone Mansion with visits to the John Brown House. Join us for stories, songs and fun activities! 550 Copley Road, Akron, 330-535-1120, summithistory.org
SUMMIT METRO PARKS
At Summit Metro Parks, they conserve, sustainably manage and value natural resources for the health and enjoyment of the community, and inspire people to connect with nature through clean and safe parks. Explore 15,000 acres throughout 16 parks, three nature centers, and more than 150 miles of trails. Now through June 30, join for the award-winning, self-guided “Spree for All” event on flat, easy trails! Visit spreeforall.summitmetroparks.org to learn more.
STAN HYWET
Learn and play at Stan Hywet. Included free with admission are educational programs like Seiberling Explorers, where families experience a guided adventure throughout the estate. Get up close and personal at the Butterfly exhibit. Seek out hidden clues with geocaching. Climb through the Home of Nature installations. The Playgarden includes a splash pad, playhouse and more. Discovery Days is an informal way to explore the grounds. Scout programs available. Visit stanhywet.org for dates and details.
TRIKEABLE TREATS
Trikeable Treats is Northeast Ohio’s one-of-a-kind ice cream bike that’s guaranteed to bring out the 8-year-old in everybody. Imagine the “The Ice Cream Man” playing the classic “Ice Cream Music” pedaling and serving all the nostalgic frozen ice creams that you know, love and remember. They promise to make your indoor or outdoor adult or kid party fun, unique and memorable for both you and your guests. 216-931-0224, trikeabletreats. com, Facebook.com/TrikeableTreats/ or Instagram.com/trikeabletreats/
THE WILDERNESS CENTER
The Wilderness Center connects the community to conservation through education, and features 12 miles of scenic trails for hiking and enjoyment, picnic shelters, Nature Playscape for kids, educational programs, and a Nature Center with interactive exhibits and gift shop. The Wilderness Center relies on memberships and donations to keep our trails free and open to the public and our programs affordable for all. Please consider making a donation or becoming a member when you visit. 9877 Alabama Ave. SW, Wilmot. wildernesscenter.org
WILLOUGHBY-EASTLAKE PUBLIC LIBRARY — SUMMER READING PROGRAM 2022
Celebrate summer by joining the Willoughby-Eastlake Public Library’s summer reading program: “Oceans of Possibilities,” from May 31 through July 23. Track your reading online through the library’s Beanstack app, or come into the library to participate in person. Children, teens, and adults have a chance to win awesome prizes. Registration begins May 23. Visit we247.org for all the details.
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5404-A Lake Road E., Geneva-on-the-Lake 440-466-0333, bestcoastwatersports.com
GREAT LAKES KAYAKING
14th Street and Broadway, Lorain 440-396-5887, facebook.com Great-LakesKayaking-471961172948960
RIVER CRUISER KAYAKING
Various locations in Cleveland facebook.com/ rivercruiserkayaking
GREAT LAKES WATERSPORTS
ROUNDUP LAKE CAMPGROUND
CAMP HI CANOE LIVERY
HINCKLEY LAKE BOATHOUSE & STORE
SILVER CREEK BOATHOUSE
CANAL FULTON CANOE LIVERY
JELLYSTONE PARK
219 W. Cherry St., Canal Fulton 330-854-4008, cfcanoe.com
12712 Hoover Ave. NW, Uniontown 330-877-9800, akroncantonjellystone.com
TIMBER RIDGE CAMPGROUND
COUNTRYSIDE CAMPGROUND
KAYAK THE BAY
BREAKAWAY EXCURSIONS
17759 Valley Road, Auburn Twp. 440-773-2465, breakawayexcursions.com 12274 Abbott Road, Hiram 330-569-7621, camphiadventure.com
2687 State Route 43, Mogadore 330-628-1212, countrysidecampgrounds.com
CROOKED RIVER ADVENTURES
13468 Main Market Road, Burton 440-834-1778, crookedriveradventures.com
41 DEGREES NORTH COASTAL KAYAK ADVENTURES 1500 Scenic Park Drive, Lakewood, 866-529-2541, kayak41north.com
GRAND RIVER CANOE LIVERY
3825 Fobes Road, Rock Creek 800-632-2663, grandrivercanoe.com
1148 Main Ave., Cleveland 216-644-0272, glwatersports.com
1 West Drive, Hinckley 330-278-2160, clevelandmetroparks.com
760 Bayview Ave., Put-in-Bay 419-967-0796, kayakthebay.net
LAKE METROPARKS FISHING Various locations 440-639-7275, lakemetroparks.com
NORTH COAST OUTPOST 6308 Lake Road W., Geneva 440-251-8048, thenorthcoastoutpost.com
OHIO DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES, DIVISION OF STATE PARKS & WATERCRAFT Operates 74 state parks throughout Ohio 866-OHIOPARKS, ohiodnr.gov
PINE LAKES CAMPGROUND
3001 Hague Road, Orwell 440-437-6218, pinelakescampground.net
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3392 State Route 82, Mantua 330-562-9100, rounduplakecampground.com
5171 S. Medina Line Road, Norton 330-867-5511, summitmetroparks.org
51900 Portman Road, Amherst 440-965-4113, timberridgecamping.com
TRAILHEAD CANOE LIVERY
135 Lake Ave. NW, Massillon 800-226-6349, trailheadcanoelivery.com
WALBORN RESERVOIR MARINA 11324 Price St. NE, Alliance 330-935-0367, starkparks.com/shops/ walborn-marina
WEST RIVER PADDLING CO.
655 W. River Road, Vermilion 440-967-5292, westriverkayak.com
WILLOW LAKE CAMPGROUND
3935 N. Broadway, Geneva 440-466-0150, willowlakecamping.com
Water Parks BAYLOR BEACH PARK 8777 Manchester Ave. SW, Navarre 330-767-3031, baylorbeachpark.com
CASTAWAY BAY 2001 Cleveland Road, Sandusky 419-627-2106, castawaybay.com
CEDAR POINT SHORES 1 Cedar Point Drive, Sandusky 419-627-2350, cedarpoint.com
CLAY’S PARK
12951 Patterson St. NW, North Lawrence 330-854-6691, clayspark.com
CLEARWATER PARK AT AKRON/CANTON JELLYSTONE PARK
12712 Hoover Ave. NW, Uniontown 330-877-9800, akroncantonjellystone.com
GREAT WOLF LODGE
4600 Milan Road, Sandusky 800-641-9653, greatwolf.com
KALAHARI RESORT
7000 Kalahari Drive, Sandusky 844-389-6837, kalahariresorts.com
Zoos, Aquariums & Farm Parks AFRICAN SAFARI WILDLIFE PARK
267 S. Lightner Road, Port Clinton 419-732-3606, africansafariwildlifepark. com
DERTHICK’S FARM
5182 State Route 82, Mantua 330-569-8661, derthickcornmaze.com
GREATER CLEVELAND AQUARIUM
505 Euclid Ave., Akron 330-375-2550, akronzoo.org
2000 Sycamore St., Cleveland 216-862-8803, greatercleve landaquarium.com
CLEVELAND METROPARKS ZOO
THE FARM AT WALNUT CREEK
AKRON ZOO
3900 Wildlife Way, Cleveland 216-661-6500, clevelandmetroparks.com/ zoo
4147 County Road 114, Sugarcreek 330-893-4200, thefarmatwalnutcreek.com
LAKE METROPARKS FARMPARK
8800 Euclid Chardon Road, Kirtland 440-256-2122, lakemetroparks.com
NICKAJACK FARMS
2955 Manchester Ave. NW, N. Lawrence 330-323-9714, nickajackfarms.com
WAGON TRAILS ANIMAL PARK
907 Youngstown Kingsville Road SE, Vienna 330-539-4494, wagontrails.com
NORTHEAST OHIO PARENTS EVENT SERIES Free, family-friendly entertainment with interactive activities for kids ages 2-9, northeastohioparent.com
Crocker Kids. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Crocker Park, 189 Crocker Park Blvd., Westlake May 17: Princess/ Superhero Dress-up Party
Pinecrest Play Days. 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Park Avenue, Orange Village, May 31: Dress-Up! Princess/Superhero Day
Fun At First & Main. 10 a.m.-noon, First and Main, Hudson May 24: Superheroes and Princesses! Oh My!
PIONEER WATERLAND 10661 Kile Road, Chardon 440-285-0910, pioneerwaterland.com
TWINSBURG WATER PARK
10260 1/2 Ravenna Road, Twinsburg 330-963-8710, mytwinsburg.com
WALDAMEER WATER WORLD
220 Peninsula Drive, Erie, Pa. 814-838-3591, waldameer.com
WATER WORKS FAMILY AQUATIC CENTER 2025 Munroe Falls Ave., Cuyahoga Falls 330-971-8433, cityofcf.com
WATERING HOLE SAFARI & WATERPARK
1530 S. Danbury Road, Port Clinton 419-732-6671, wateringholeatmonsoon.com
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Parks, Gardens & Trails
BEECH CREEK BOTANICAL GARDEN & NATURE PRESERVE 11929 Beech St. NE, Alliance 330-829-7050, beechcreekgardens.org
CANTON GARDEN CENTER
1615 Stadium Park Drive NW, Canton, 330-455-6172, cantongardencenter.com
CLEVELAND CULTURAL GARDENS IN ROCKEFELLER PARK 750 E. 88th St., Cleveland culturalgardens.org
CLEVELAND BOTANICAL GARDEN 11030 East Blvd., Cleveland 216-721-1600, holdenfg.org
CLEVELAND METROPARKS
4101 Fulton Parkway, Cleveland 216-635-3200, clevelandmetroparks.com
CUYAHOGA VALLEY NATIONAL PARK
15610 Vaughn Road, Brecksville 440-717-3890, nps.gov/cuva
GEAUGA PARK DISTRICT 9160 Robinson Road, Chardon 440-286-9516, geaugaparkdistrict.org
HOLDEN ARBORETUM
9550 Sperry Road, Kirtland 440-946-4400, holdenfg.org
LAKE METROPARKS
OHIO & ERIE CANALWAY
Cuyahoga County: 6801 Brecksville Road, Ste. 185, Independence, 216-520-1825 Summit, Stark & Tuscarawas counties: 47 W. Exchange St., Akron 330-374-5657 ohioanderiecanalway.com
OHIO DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES, DIVISION OF STATE PARKS & WATERCRAFT Operates 74 state parks throughout Ohio 866-OHIOPARKS, parks.ohiodnr.gov
PORTAGE PARK DISTRICT
705 Oakwood St., Ste. G-4, Ravenna, 330-297-7728, portageparkdistrict.org
PRESTON’S H.O.P.E. PLAYGROUND PARK 26001 S. Woodland Road, Beachwood prestonshope.com
11211 Spear Road, Concord Township 440-358-7275, lakemetroparks.com
SECREST ARBORETUM & GARDENS
LORAIN COUNTY METRO PARKS
STAN HYWET HALL & GARDENS
12882 Diagonal Road, LaGrange 800-LCM-PARK, loraincountymetroparks.com
MEDINA COUNTY PARK DISTRICT
6364 Deerview Lane 330-722-9364, medinacountyparks.com
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1680 Madison Ave., Wooster 330-263-3761, secrest.osu.edu
714 N. Portage Path, Akron 330-836-5533, stanhywet.org
STARK PARKS
5712 12th St. NW, Canton 330-477-3552, starkparks.com
SUMMIT COUNTY METRO PARKS
975 Treaty Line Road, Akron 330-867-5511, summitmetroparks.org
Theaters & Concerts AKRON CIVIC THEATRE
MAGICAL THEATRE COMPANY
TALESPINNER CHILDREN’S THEATRE
BECK CENTER FOR THE ARTS
PLAYHOUSE SQUARE
WEATHERVANE PLAYHOUSE
182 S. Main St., Akron 330-253-2488, akroncivic.com
17801 Detroit Ave., Lakewood 216-521-2540, beckcenter.org
565 W. Tuscarawas Ave., Barberton 330-848-3708, magicaltheatre.org
1501 Euclid Ave., Cleveland 216-241-6000, playhousesquare.org
5209 Detroit Ave., Cleveland 216-264-9680, talespinnercle.org
1301 Weathervane Lane, Akron 330-836-2626, weathervaneplayhouse.com
BLOSSOM MUSIC CENTER
1145 W. Steels Corners Road, Cuyahoga Falls 330-920-8040, clevelandamphitheater.com
CAIN PARK — EVANS AMPHITHEATER 14591 Superior Road, Cleveland Hts. 216-371-3000, cainpark.com
CANTON PALACE THEATRE
605 Market Ave. N., Canton 330-454-8172, cantonpalacetheatre.org
CLEVELAND METROPARKS EDGEWATER LIVE & EUCLID BEACH LIVE clevelandmetroparks.com
CLEVELAND PLAYHOUSE THE ALLEN, OUTCALT AND HELEN THEATRES 1407 Euclid Ave., Cleveland 216-241-6000, clevelandplayhouse.com
E.J. THOMAS HALL 198 Hill St., Akron 330-972-7570, uakron.edu/ej
THE FINE ARTS ASSOCIATION
38660 Mentor Ave., Willoughby 440-951-7500, fineartsassociation.org
GREAT LAKES THEATER AT THE HANNA THEATRE 2067 E. 14th St., Cleveland 216-241-6000, greatlakestheater.org
LOCK 3
200 S. Main St., Akron 330-375-2877, lock3live.com
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Skate Parks Indoor/Outdoor
BRUNSWICK SKATESTATION
1261 Industrial Parkway N., Brunswick, 330-225-9842, skatestation.net
CHAGRIN VALLEY ROLLER RINK
7151 S. Main St., Chagrin Falls 440-247-4224, skate.cvrr.com
CITY SKATE CENTER
63 W. Walnut Ave., Painesville 440-352-2002, cityskatecenter.com
JOY’S ROLLER RINK
5615 Andrews Road, Mentor-on-the-Lake 440-257-3631, joysrollerrink.wixsite.com/ joysrollerrink
LAKEWOOD SKATE PARK
MEDINA SKATELAND 3789 Pearl Road, Medina 330-723-5859, medinaskateland.com
NORTH CANTON SKATE & ENTERTAINMENT CENTER
14532 Lake Ave., Lakewood lakewoodskatepark.com
5475 Whipple Ave. NW, N. Canton 330-499-7170, northcantonskatecenter.com
LORAIN SKATE WORLD
ROLL ARENA
4952 W. Erie Ave., Lorain 440-282-2567, lorainskateworld.com
908 Cleveland St., Elyria 440-366-6581, rollarena.biz
Pools, Swimming & Splash Parks BEACHWOOD FAMILY AQUATIC CENTER 25125 Fairmount Blvd., Beachwood 216-292-1973, beachwoodohio.com
CUYAHOGA FALLS WADING POOLS
Lions Park, Linden Park, Indian Mountain Park, Quirk Cultural Center, Valley Vista and Oak Park. cityofcf.com
EAGLE PARK SPLASH PAD 14730 N. Springdale Ave., Middlefield 440-632-5248, middlefieldohio.com
FALLS RIVER SQUARE INTERACTIVE FOUNTAINS
2085 Front St., Cuyahoga Falls 330-971-8225, cityofcf.com
GEMINI CENTER SPRAYGROUND
21225 Lorain Road, Fairview Park 440-356-4444, fairviewparkrec.com
HINCKLEY RESERVATION — SPILLWAY SWIM AND LEDGE POOL Near intersection of State and Bellus roads, Hinckley Twp. 330-278-4544, clevelandmetroparks.com
KIWANIS-MOORE PARK 35 W. Pioneer Trail, Aurora 330-562-6131, auroraoh.com
KNIGHTS FIELD PARK SPRAYGROUND 701 Rebecca St., Wooster 330-262-8468, woosteroh.com
LYNDHURST SPRAY PARK Brainard Park, 1840 Brainard Road, Lyndhurst, 440-442-5844 lyndhurst-oh.com
MORTON PARK SPLASH PAD
22301 Morton Ave., Fairview Park 440-356-4444, fairviewparkrec.com
MORTON POOL & SPRAYPARK
9325 Rosemary Lane, Mentor 440-257-5719, cityofmentor.com
ORLANDO SPRAY PARK
30100 Twin Lakes Drive, Wickliffe 440-943-7100, cityofwickliffe.com
QUARRY SPLASH PARK
Quarry Park South, South Euclid 216-381-7674, cityofsoutheuclid.com
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ROLLER HUTT
10268 Hewins Road, Garrettsville 330-527-4633, rollerhutt.com
TRI-STAR SKATEBOARDS 5360 Brookpark Road, Cleveland 216-459-9000, tristarskateboards.com
UNITED SKATES OF AMERICA
Wickliffe: 440-944-5301 Cleveland: 216-420-8821 unitedskates.com
SPRAYGROUND AT RICHMOND HEIGHTS COMMUNITY PARK
27285 Highland Road, Richmond Heights, 216-383-6313 richmondheightsohio.org
VETERANS WAY PARK SPLASH PAD 55 Veterans Way, Hudson 330-653-5201, hudson.oh.us
WALSH SPRAY PARK
7221 Bellflower Road, Mentor 440-974-5720, cityofmentor.com
WATER WORKS FAMILY AQUATIC CENTER 2025 Munroe Falls Ave., Cuyahoga Falls 330-971-8433, cityofcf.com
YMCA
Various locations ymca.org
Indoor P lay
WITTLE TOWN
ADRENALINE MONKEY
PLAY DAY CAFE
ALTITUDE TRAMPOLINE PARK
PLAYGROUND WORLD
110 Market Drive, Elyria 440-281-9999, altitudeelyria.com
Warrensville Hts.: 440-729-0909 Avon: 440-937-5760 playgroundworld.com
CAFE O’PLAY
PUMP IT UP
26800 Renaissance Pkwy., Cleveland 216-282-3100, adrenalinemonkeyfun.com
911 Graham Road, Ste. 27, Stow 330-928-7517, cafeoplay.com
CHUCK E. CHEESE
5296 Detroit Road, Sheffield Village 440-683-6635, wittletown.com
6200 Enterprise Pkwy. #1, Solon 440-248-5790, playdaycafe.com
SCENE75 CLEVELAND
3688 Center Road, Brunswick 234-803-1100, scene75.com/cleveland
GET AIR TRAMPOLINE PARK
SKY ZONE TRAMPOLINE PARK
GHOSTLY MANOR THRILL CENTER 3319 Milan Road, Sandusky 419-626-4467, ghostlymanor.com
JUMP N SHOUT
887 W. Main St., Smithville 330-464-2385, jumpnshout.com
THE JUMP YARD
34675 Melinz Pkwy., Unit 101, Eastlake 440-488-2598, jumpyardcleveland.com
JURASSIC MOUNTAIN 2789 Medina Road, Medina 330-974-1300, jurassicmountain.com
1255 N. Carpenter Road, Brunswick 330-227-4335, xtremeninjawarrior.com
1135 W. Maple St., Hartville 330-877-7867, pumpitupparty.com
Various locations chuckecheese.com
Akron: 330-368-2139 Middleburg Heights: 440-591-6520 getairsports.com
XTREME NINJA WARRIOR
Boston Heights: 234-249-3030 Highland Heights: 440-467-5867 Westlake: 440-467-5867 skyzone.com
SPINS BOWL
Akron: 330-628-4822 Independence: 216-524-4833 Kent: 330-673-1800 spinsbowl.com
TOP GOLF
5820 Rockside Woods Blvd. N., Independence 216-619-2464, topgolf.com/cleveland
URBAN AIR ADVENTURE PARK
160 Rothrock Loop, Akron 330-532-7116, urbanairakron.com
KIDDIE JUNGLE
Locations in Lyndhurst, Mentor and Parma 440-373-7765, kiddiejungle.com
MAIN EVENT ENTERTAINMENT
35605 Chester Road, Avon 440-398-0611, mainevent.com
MAKE BELIEVE FAMILY FUN CENTER 8303 Day Drive, Parma 440-385-5500, makebelieveparma.com
PLAY: CLE
38525 Chester Road, Avon 440-695-3565, playcle.com
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Go Karts, Putt-Putt Golf & More
ACRES OF FUN
3889 Friendsville Road, Wooster 330-345-4386, acresoffun.com
ADVENTURE ZONE
5600 Lake Road E., Geneva-on-the-Lake 440-466-3555, adventurezonefun.com
AIRPORT GO-KARTS 16208 Brookpark Road, Cleveland 216-265-0750, airportgokarts.com
ALIEN VACATION MINI GOLF
260 S. Court St., Medina 330-721-1224, alienvacationminigolf.com
BASEBALL BATTING CAGES AT BRECKSVILLE 7033 Mill Road, Brecksville 440-838-5138, brecksvillebatting.com
BOSS PRO KARTING 18301 Brookpark Road, Cleveland 216-938-6335, bossprokarting.com
BUZZARD COVE
1053 Bellus Road, Hinckley 330-278-2384, buzzardcove.com
CHIP’S CLUBHOUSE 214 5th Ave., Chardon 440-285-3456, chipsclubhouse.com
DOWNVIEW SPORTS CENTER
1621 Bailey Road, Cuyahoga Falls 330-971-8418, cityofcf.com
FUN-N-STUFF AMUSEMENT PARK
661 Highland Road, Macedonia 330-467-0820, fun-n-stuff.com
THE GOLF DOME
8198 E. Washington St., Chagrin Falls 440-543-1211, thegolfdome.com
HIGH VOLTAGE INDOOR KARTING
333 Foundry St., Medina 330-333-9000, highvoltagekarting.com
SCENE75 CLEVELAND
3688 Center Road, Brunswick 234-803-1100, scene75.com/cleveland
SLUGGERS & PUTTERS 333 Lafayette Drive NW, Canal Fulton 330-854-6999, sluggers-putters.com
SWEETIES GOLFLAND 6770 Brookpark Road, Cleveland 216-472-1340, sweetiesgolfland.com
SWINGS-N-THINGS
8501 Stearns Road, Olmsted Falls 440-235-4420, sntfun.com
Drive-In
Theaters AUT-O-RAMA TWIN DRIVE-IN THEATRE
33395 Lorain Road, North Ridgeville 440-327-9595, autoramadrivein.com
BLUE SKY DRIVE-IN THEATER
959 Broad St., Wadsworth 330-334-1809, blueskydrive-in.com
MAGIC CITY DRIVE-IN THEATER 5602 S. ClevelandMassillon Road, Barberton 330-825-4333, magiccitydrive-in.com
MAYFIELD ROAD DRIVE-IN THEATER 12100 State Route 322, Chardon 440-286-7173, funflick.com/mayfield
MIDWAY TWIN DRIVE-IN THEATER 2736 State Route 59, Ravenna 330-296-9829, funflick.com/midway
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Lessons & Learning BECK CENTER FOR THE ARTS
17801 Detroit Ave., Lakewood 216-521-2540, beckcenter.org
FAIRMOUNT CENTER FOR THE ARTS
8400 Fairmount Road, Novelty 440-338-3171, fairmountcenter.org
FINE ARTS ASSOCIATION
38660 Mentor Ave., Willoughby 440-951-7500, fineartsassociation.org
MAGICAL THEATRE COMPANY 565 W. Tuscarawas Ave., Barberton 330-848-3708, magicaltheatre.org
THE MUSIC SETTLEMENT 11125 Magnolia Drive, Cleveland, 216-421-5806, themusicsettlement.org
ROYALTON MUSIC CENTER 10167 Royalton Road, N. Royalton 440-237-9400, royaltonmusic.com
SCHOOL OF ROCK
Highland Heights: 440-684-7625 Strongsville: 440-572-7655 Westlake: 440-333-7625 schoolofrock.com
YMCA OF GREATER CLEVELAND
Various locations clevelandymca.org
YOUNG CHEFS ACADEMY
Locations in Solon and Strongsville 440-853-5004, youngchefsacademy.com
- SPONSORED CONTENT -
WHERE KIDS CAN TOUCH THE ART! Chagall for Children (May 11 – August 28 2022) is a multisensory, hands-on exploration of one of the best-known and best-loved artists of the twentieth century, Marc Chagall. This world class special exhibition is specifically designed to engage ages 2 – 12 and features 14 multi-sensory exploration stations, each incorporating a high-quality reproduction of one of Marc Chagall’s works encouraging children to explore art principles such as color, composition, light and texture. Be sure to save the date for the May 15th Chagall for Children Kick-off event. Join us for an exciting day of family fun at the Maltz Museum as we kick off our new special exhibition, Chagall for Children. Explore Chagall’s life and art through our new hands-on special exhibition, and enjoy live performances throughout the day, from Mandel JCC’s Playmakers Youth Theater to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and more.
Learn more about the exhibition at maltzmuseum.org
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CATAWBA ISLAND STATE PARK
2O22
er Summ
Fun Guide
County Fairs
CUYAHOGA COUNTY FAIR Aug. 9-14 19201 East Bagley Road, Middleburg Heights, cuyfair.com
GREAT GEAUGA COUNTY FAIR
Aug. 31-Sept. 5 14373 N. Cheshire St., Burton geaugafair.com
LAKE COUNTY FAIR
July 26-31 1301 Mentor Ave., Painesville lakecountyfair.org
LORAIN COUNTY FAIR Aug. 21-28 23000 Fairgrounds Road, Wellington loraincountyfair.com
Beaches
EDGEWATER BEACH
Lakefront Reservation, Cleveland 216-635-3200, clevelandmetroparks.com
FAIRPORT HARBOR LAKEFRONT PARK BEACH 301 Huntington Beach Drive, Fairport Harbor 440-256-2118, fairportharbor.org
GENEVA STATE PARK BEACH 4499 Padanarum Road, Geneva 440-466-8400, ohiodnr.gov
HEADLANDS BEACH STATE PARK
9601 Headlands Road, Mentor 440-466-8400, ohiodnr.gov
HUNTINGTON BEACH Lake Road, Bay Village 216-635-3200, clevelandmetroparks.com
LAKE ERIE SHORES & ISLANDS
MEDINA COUNTY FAIR
125 E. Water St., Sandusky 419-625-2984, shoresandislands.com
OHIO STATE FAIR
OHIO DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES, DIVISION OF STATE PARKS & WATERCRAFT
Aug. 1-7 720 W. Smith Road, Medina medinaohiofair.com July 27-Aug. 7 717 E. 17th Ave., Columbus ohiostatefair.com
PORTAGE COUNTY RANDOLPH FAIR
Aug. 23-28 4215 Fairground Road, Atwater randolphfair.com
STARK COUNTY FAIR
TBD, check website for dates 305 Wertz Ave., Canton starkcountyfair.com
SUMMIT COUNTY FAIR
July 26-31 229 E. Howe Road, Tallmadge summitfair.com
S30 | 2022 Summer FUN Guide - Family Living at Its Best
Operates 74 state parks throughout Ohio 866-OHIOPARKS, ohiodnr.gov
Amusement
Parks CEDAR POINT
1 Cedar Point Drive, Sandusky 419-627-2350, cedarpoint.com
MEMPHIS KIDDIE PARK
10340 Memphis Ave., Brooklyn 216-941-5995, memphiskiddiepark.com
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S32 | 2022 Summer FUN Guide - Family Living at Its Best
What Moms Want
9
FEEL-GOOD GIFT IDEAS
Mother’s Day is a time to honor the sacrifices of moms, show our love and appreciation, and celebrate
them with time together as a family. But, how can you brighten the day of a lady who shines her light on everyone around her? Who knows moms better than a mom? We talked to local mom makers who share their favorite confidence-boosting, joy-inducing gifts for the moms in your life. BY LINDSEY GEISS
PHOTOS COURTESY OF: SARA MARINO, SARAH MARIE PHOTOGRAPHY OF MEDINA, YELLOWCAKE SHOP
for mom with a teen girl
Green Girl Goods Spring Box (or Yearly Subscription) MEET THE MAKER: Sara Marino, mother of three in Avon Lake, M.Ed., Natural Health Specialist, Founder and Owner, Green Girl Goods
A
curated collection of clean beauty, self-care and eco-friendly products for teen and tween girls that moms will want to share – the Green Girl Goods Spring Box includes mascara, invisible acne-fighting spot covers, a guided journal, glow balm, an eyelash curler, sparkle gloss and a Green Girl Goods custom pin, along with an insert detailing why each product was selected.
“
$43 per box (subscription includes 4 shipped seasonally), beagreengirl.com
Age-appropriate self-care items, like the guided journal that girls are loving, help encourage taking time for mental and emotional wellbeing, in addition to supporting overall health and the environment.” — SARA
for the stylish DIY-mom
for mom who needs pampered
MEET THE MAKER: Holly Krieger, mom of three in Medina, owner and maker of Mae Bee Honey Company
Self-Care Saturday Shopping Event and Personalized Tassel Keychain or Rope Belt Making Class
T
MEET THE MAKER: Valerie Mayèn, Founder and Chief of Awesome, Yellowcake Shop Detroit Shoreway Neighborhood Mother of Two
Mae Bee Honey Company Gift Box
reat mom to local honey and handmade soaps, candles and cosmetics that are good for her and the planet. The Mae Bee Honey Company Just Relax Gift Box, $50, includes small Hand-poured 100% beeswax candle of choice, two cold process soaps of choice, Bath Soak (bath tea or bath bomb), lotion bar or intense repair balm, body Butter, lip balm and a solid scrub Bar, Also, check out the Luxury Gift Box, $70, which includes locally handmade candle pot (made from 100% beeswax and therapeutic grade essential oils) that doubles as a planter once burning is complete and more. Select Mae Bee products can be found at Boyert’s Greenhouse & Farm and Centerra Co-Op Country Store in Medina. hhscience.com/store/c132/
Mae_Bee_Honey_Co and at four boutiques inside Trillium Creek Dermatology offices in Medina, Brunswick, Wadsworth and Wooster
J
oin Project Runway’s alumna and Yellowcake Shop’s owner and head dress baker, Valeri Mayen, for a three-hour Mother’s Day shopping celebration or a one-hour class where you, mama, or you and mama can enjoy snacks and bubbly and hand make either a personalized leather tassel keychain or a custom rope belt in your (or mama’s) color of choice. Invite the mother figure in your life for a fun Mother’s Day experience May 7. Attend the Self-Care Saturday to enjoy a BOGO Sale and shop handmade products. (11 am. to 5 p.m. $5 ticket applied to purchase on arrival class 5-6 p.m.: $60 for one attendee, $100 for two attendees. Register online.) Shop online at yellowcakeshop.com or during studio hours Tuesday through Friday 11 a.m.-7 p.m. with private shopping appointments available 12-6 p.m. at the 78th St. Studios home base in Cleveland
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for mom on the go
Ellie Jane Bags Maggie Bucket Bag MEET THE MAKER: Sarah Larson, Owner and Maker, Ellie Jane Bags, Bay Village Mother of three
H
🔍
Find spots for year-round family fun in our online directories. for summer, fall and winter fun — and more!
Go to NortheastOhioParent.com 20 | Family Living at Its Best
and-crafted of full grain leather, this versatile drawstring bag converts from a comfortable shoulder or crossbody bag to a backpack with two detachable straps. The Maggie Bucket Bag is unlined and has two pockets, one interior slip pocket and one exterior slip pocket with a snap closure. Aside from the leather drawstring closure, the turn-lock feature keeps the bag secure, especially when worn as a backpack. You’ll find a convenient key clasp inside. Leather color options may change as supply availability dictates. Dimensions: 12” tall, 13” wide at opening (tapers slightly at bottom), 4.5” deep.
for mom with a boho edge
2 ODD BIRDS Raw Natural Stone Necklace MEET THE MAKER: Sara Rockburn, Owner and Jewelry Designer, 2 Odd Birds, Olmsted Falls Mother of a Daughter
A
perfect layering piece, this raw natural aquamarine, amethyst or moonstone necklace is light and comfortable to wear all day long. Available in 14”, 15”, 16”, 18”, 20” or 22” lengths with optional 2” extender, stones vary in size and range from 0.25” to 0.75” depending on type. Each unique piece is complimented with brass oxidized for an aged and weathered appeal. $28-$30+, Can be purchased online at 2oddbirds.com and Tart Boutique in Rocky River and Pretty Things Salon in Cleveland.
$315, Ellie Jane Bags and gift cards are sold online at elliejanehandmade.com
for the essential oils-loving mom
Self-Love Diffuser Bracelet MEET THE MAKER: Melissa Jackson, Owner and Designer, Gold Arrow Studios, Avon Mother of four
S
tylishly and discreetly diffuse oils on the go with this multi-purpose aromatherapy bracelet featuring 10mm natural pink opal stones and porous gold lava rocks, a strong elastic stretch cord and gold spacers. Bracelets come in a standard size of medium (7.25”) unless otherwise noted at checkout. Other sizing options available.. To find your size, wrap a piece of string around your wrist, measure it with a ruler, then add ½”. Simply add a drop or two of your favorite oil onto the lava rocks to diffuse for up to three hours, at which point you can replenish with the same oil or a new one. $44, goldarrowstudios.com with shipping and local pickup available, and products can be found at local boutiques.
for the modern farmhouse mom
Awake Your Soul Watercolor & Wood Sign Art MEET THE MAKER: Jill Glad, Co-Owner, Awake Your Soul Watercolor & Wood, Brunswick Mom of three
A
wake Your Soul Watercolor & Wood products feature light and airy color schemes that seamlessly meld with modern design aesthetics to deliver farmhouse vibes or boho eclectic looks for home décor. Made from plywood, pine, paper and a lot of love, these versatile and lovely signs framed out in rustic pine with a light gray stain display positive affirmations and darling sentiments for all the moms in your life and come in a range of sizes and prices, starting at $12 for tiny 3.5x3.5-inch signs to $20 for popular 5x5 or 8x10-inch signs and $48+ for larger 12x15, 16x16 or 17x21inch signs. $12-$35+, awakeyoursoulwatercolor. com. Signs are also available at monthly marketplace weekends at Ivory Barn in Pataskala, Ohio.
for mom who pairs wine & candles
Furbish & Fire Upcycled Wine Bottle Candle MEET THE MAKER: Michelle Liller, Owner, Furbish & Fire Candle Co., Avon Lake Mother of two
C
elebrate the special moms in your life with upcycled wine bottle candles with fun, witty or personalized label designs. Hand-poured in small batches inside the Furbish & Fire Avon Lake studio, the candles are all hand-cut and polished, made from 100% soy wax with lead-free, cotton wicks and include premium, phthalatefree fragrances. Personalize with your choice of signature fragrances to help calm, energize or freshen her space in style.
“
$27 each, Candles are sold online at furbishandfire.com and local boutiques.
Moms are constantly giving to all the people around them. Sometimes we just need to sit back and take care of ourselves in order to give the best of ourselves to others. — MELISSA
PHOTOS COURTESY OF: KAILEY MARIE PHOTOGRAPHY AND SARAH LARSON, MICHELLE LILLER, SARA ROCKBURN, JILL GLAD, MELISSA JACKSON
for mom who appreciates the little things
Pint-Sized Pegs MEET THE MAKER: Amie Kanengeiser, Owner and Artist, Sagamore Hills Mother of three
P
int-Sized Pegs are hand-crafted and handpainted custom wooden peg dolls modeled after anything you can imagine, from Trailblazing Women and Inspired Artists to beloved cartoon characters and customized family members or pets for collectibles. Trailblazing women are sporting their own graphic t-shirts include Ruth Bader Ginsberg, Greta Thunberg and Kamala Harris. Each Bob Ross peg doll from the Inspired Artists collection comes with a hand painted canvas painted in Bob’s style and a mini easel to display it. Custom people or families start at $25 per person and vary based on level of detail, clay work add-ons, number of family members, pets, etc. Prices vary, etsy.com/shop/PintSizedPegs, at River Light Gallery in Peninsula and Forage and Feather in Aurora.
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Camp and Summer Programs Guide Last Call for Camps!
ADRENALINE MONKEY adrenalinemonkeyfun.com
AKRON ARTWORKS akronartworks.com
AKRON ROTARY CAMP gotcamp.org
22 | Family Living at Its Best
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.
CAMP ASBURY eocsummercamps.org
CAMP CARL
campcarl.lifecampasbury.org
CAMP CURIOSITY: SUMMER SCIENCE CAMPS greatscience.com
CAMP FITCH campfitchymca.org
CAMP GILMOUR
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 sixth 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
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!) our 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 K-8. Learn more and register at shawjcc.org/camp-j
CAMPING AT HERITAGE FARMS heritagefarms.com
CAVS ACADEMY SUMMER TOUR
cavsyouth.com/summertour
CENTER STAGE DANCE STUDIO Centerstageohio.com
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Camp and Summer Programs Guide CHALLENGE ISLAND
challenge-island.com/neo
CHILDTIME
Childtime.com/summer
CLEVELAND FENCING ACADEMY clevelandfencingacademy.com
CLEVELAND METROPARKS
clevelandmetroparks.com/camps
CLEVELAND PUBLIC LIBRARY cpl.beanstack.org
COMMON GROUND SUMMER CAMPS commongroundcenter.org/ summer-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 creativeplayrooms.com
CUYAHOGA COMMUNITY COLLEGE tri-c.edu/summercamps
CUYAHOGA VALLEY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY cvcaroyals.org/summer-camps
24 | Family Living at Its Best
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 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.
FAIRMOUNT EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER 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
FIT BY FIVE fitbyfive.com
FORMAN SCHOOL
Forman School offers a four-week, coed boarding and day program for students entering grades 7-11 who would benefit from our 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
THE FOUNDRY clevelandfoundry.org
GEAUGA PARK DISTRICT
Geauga Park District’s 10th annual summer camps are slated for youth entering 3rd and 4th grades the week of July 11; youth entering 5th through 7th grades the weeks of June 13, 27, July 18, 25, and August 1; and teens entering 8th through 10th grades the weeks of June 20 and July 11. Registration opens March 20 for Junior Naturalist Day Camp the week of June 6, and “X-TREME” adventures July 20 (high ropes) and July 27 (kayaks). bit.ly/gpdcamps
GIRL SCOUTS OF NORTH EAST OHIO Gsneo.org/camplife
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.
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 May 2022 - NortheastOhioParent.com
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Camp and Summer Programs Guide HOLDEN FORESTS & GARDENS holdenfg.org
J-DAY CAMPS
mandeljcc.org/daycamps
JULIE BILLIART SCHOOLS juliebilliartschool.org
science. Have fun. Environmental Heroes: Free field research program for middle and high school students. Two-year commitment meeting Wednesdays, 4:30-6:30 p.m., two-week summer session 7/26-8/9, Doan Brook Watershed. University Circle. 216-368-5075, gelfand.case.edu
THE LITTLE GYM OF SHAKER HEIGHTS tlgshakerheightsoh.com
LAKE ERIE NATURE & SCIENCE CENTER
LORAIN COUNTY METRO PARKS
LAKE RIDGE ACADEMY
MAGICAL THEATRE COMPANY
lensc.org/summer-camps
lakeridgeacademy.org/summer
LEONARD GELFAND STEM CENTER
Applications are now available for Case Western Reserve University Gelfand STEM Center Programs 2022-2023. Shipwreck Camp 2022: 7/11-22, ages 2-15. $535. Engage in the work of explorers and researchers to find Lake Erie shipwrecks. Discover SCUBA. Build a remotely-operated vehicle. Explore a wreck. Learn the history of lake commerce and lake
26 | Family Living at Its Best
loraincountymetroparks.com
magicaltheatre.org
MALTZ MUSEUM OF JEWISH HERITAGE Maltzmuseum.org
MARTELL SCHOOL OF DANCE martellschoolofdance.com
THE MUSIC SETTLEMENT themusicsettlement.org/camps
NATURE CENTER AT SHAKER LAKES shakerlakes.org/camp
THE NEST SCHOOLS TheNestSchool.com
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 threeweek 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
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Camp and Summer Programs Guide OHIO TUITION TRUST
Summer camps open new worlds for your child – So does a higher education! Since 1989, Ohio’s 529 Plan, CollegeAdvantage, has been helping families nationwide save for education after high school — at four-year universities, two-year community and technical colleges, trade or vocational schools, apprenticeships, and certificate programs. Ohio’s 529 Plan offers tax-free earnings, tax-free withdrawals, and a state of Ohio income tax deduction for Ohioans. Learn, plan, and start with Ohio’s 529 Plan at CollegeAdvantage.com
PARK DAY CAMP
parksynagogue.org/park-day-camp
PROGRESS WITH CHESS
UNIVERSITY OF AKRON uakron.edu/summer
UNIVERSITY SCHOOL
For decades, University School has been the place for boys and girls to develop skills and forge friendships that extend beyond the summer. Greater Cleveland’s quintessential six-week Boys’ Day Camp experience now offers a coed extended week option. Explorer Programs are for the child with an adventurous spirit and inquisitive mind. Sports Camps are for beginning athletes looking for an introduction to a sport, or for athletes wanting to take their talents to a higher level. us.edu
YMCA SUMMER CAMPS
SUMMER RUFFING IT!
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 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
SYLVAN WESTLAKE DAY CAMP
YOUNG CHEFS ACADEMY CULINARY CAMP
progresswithchess.org/camps
PSI
Psi-solutions.org
SCHOOL OF ROCK
schoolofrock.com/music-camps
ruffingmontessori.net
locations.sylvanlearning.com/ us/Westlake-oh
Youngchefsacademy.com
ZEN & THE ARTS CAMP FOR “ALL” KIDS insightwellness.org
28 | Family Living at Its Best
May CAlenDAR
Find more events at NortheastOhioParent.com
s e s o e erro ! e H rr H FUUNN! e e p SSuu p p err F u SSu
5/7
Comic Book Day. Activities, cartooning demonstrations and workshops. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Beck Center for the Arts, 17801 Detroit Ave., Lakewood, beckcenter.org Comic Book Day Activities. Make your own cape or fold a comic character. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Orange Branch Library, 31975 Chagrin Blvd., Pepper Pike, cuyahogalibrary.org
5/14
Choose Your Character: Teens. Learn how to create a believable character when writing your own works. 2-3 p.m. Wickliffe Public Library, 1713 Lincoln Road, wickliffepl.org
5/21
Author and Illustrator Hike. Hike with local author Mary E. Ciesa and illustrator Kristina Tartara as they read their book. 10:30 a.m.-noon. Richfield Branch Library, 3761 S. Grant St., akronlibrary.org
Pick - a - DAY MONDAYS
Simply Science: Marine Biology. Learn about oceans, life in the sea, the marine kingdoms, and more. Grades 7-12. 1-3:30 p.m. Akron Fossils & Science Center, 2080 S. Cleveland Massillon Rd., Copley, akronfossils.com
TUESDAYS
Preschool Clay. Young children explore clay as they create seasonal themed items. Through 5/17. 3:45-5:30 p.m. The Fine Arts Association, 38660 Mentor Ave., Willoughby, fineartsassociation.org
WEDNESDAYS
Totally Teen Wednesdays. Hang out with friends for a while before heading home. Through 5/18. 3-4:30 p.m. Cuyahoga Falls Library, 2015 Third St., cuyahogafallslibrary.org
Centennial Plaza Movie Series. Free outdoor, big-screen, family-friendly movies. Through 8/17. 7 p.m. Centennial Plaza, downtown Canton, cantonpalacetheatre.org Fun on the Farm. Pony and pony cart rides, horse rides and more. June-August. 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Spring Mist Farms, 691 Pearl Road, Brunswick Hills, springmistfarms.com
WEDNESDAYFRIDAY
Nature Nuts. Introduce children to the wonders of science and nature. Through 5/13. Ages 3-5. 12:30-2:30 p.m. Lake Erie Nature & Science Center, 28728 Wolf Rd., Bay Village, lensc.org
THURSDAYS
Tween & Tween Night. Games, trivia, movies and pizza. First and third Thursday of the month. 6-9 p.m. Thompson Branch Library,
6645 Madison Road, divi.geaugalibrary.net
FRIDAYS
Finger Paint Fridays. Bring your little one to explore their creativity. Perfect for Pre-K. 10 a.m.-noon. Mentor Headlands Branch Library, 4669 Corduroy Road, Mentor, mentorpl.org
FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS
Wonder: Canton Light Festival. Enjoy six unique light installations. 8-10 p.m. Court Avenue between 5th Street NW and 2nd Street NW., cantonlightfestival.com
FRIDAYS-SUNDAYS
Golf Cart Cruise. Golf cart journey through the African Savanna, on a Wilderness Trek, and the back roads of Australia. Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, 3900 Wildlife Way, futureforwildlife.org
SATURDAYS
S.T.E.A.M. Team Saturdays. Explore this fun approach to science, technology, engineering, art and math learning. 1-2 p.m. Akron Children’s Museum, 216 S. Main St., akronkids.org Art Exploration. Introduces students (ages 4-7) to a range of art making mediums and techniques. 5/7-6/18. 9-10 a.m. Akron ArtWorks, 1684 Merriman Road, Akron, akronartworks.com 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, twinsburglibrary.org Strawberry Festival. U-pick strawberries, food trucks, music and more. 6/11 & 6/18. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Bauman Orchards, 161 Rittman Avenue., Rittman, baumanorchards.com
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SATURDAYS & SUNDAYS
Live Animal Encounter. Meet a live animal and learn about the habits and adaptations of our native wildlife. Noon-12:30 p.m. Rocky River Nature Center, 24000 Valley Pkwy., North Olmsted, clevelandmetroparks.com
SUNDAYS
Family FUNday. Family-friendly games, movement-based activities, art, and more. First Sunday of the month. 1-4 p.m. Community Arts Center, West 25th St., Cleveland, clevelandart.org
day - by - DAY
THROUGH 5/22
The Three Musketeers. Fast, fun, and fresh reimagining of the timeless novel. Cleveland Play House, Allen Theatre, 1407 Euclid Ave., clevelandplayhouse.com
5/6-15
Winnie-the-Pooh. Fridays 7:30 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays 2 p.m. Magical Theatre Company, 565 W. Tuscarawas Ave., Barberton, magicaltheatre.org
5/7
May CALENDAR
Family Concert: The Chevalier. The music and true story of 18th century Black composer Joseph Bologne. 11 a.m. Severance Hall, 11001 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, clevelandorchestra.com TWC’S Astronomy Day. Telescope displays and children’s activities including building a paper model, making a galaxy pinwheel and more. Noon-4:30 p.m. The Wilderness Center, 9877 Alabama Ave. SW, Wilmot, wildernesscenter.org
5/10
Lego Lab. They have Legos. You bring creativity. 5:30-7 p.m. Northwest Akron Branch Library, 1720 Shatto Ave., akronlibrary.org
5/10-11
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Get ready for Oompa-Loompas, incredible inventions, and the great glass elevator at this everlasting showstopper. 7:30 p.m. E.J. Thomas Hall, 198 Hill St., Akron, uakron.edu/ej
5/11
5/14
5/12
High School Career Day at the Aquarium. Meet the team members who keep the aquarium running and find how their careers began. 9 a.m.-noon. 2000 Sycamore St., Cleveland, greaterclevelandaquarium.com
Teen Cooking Class. Mix-up a southwestern chicken salad. 6-7 p.m. South Lorain Branch Library, 2121 Homewood Drive, lorainpubliclibrary.org
Rock Climbing: Anchor Building. An exploration of anchor building techniques. 6-9 p.m. Ages 14+. Hinckley Reservation, Top O’ Ledges Picnic Area, clevelandmetroparks.com Bird Bash. Join the naturalists as they search for rare birds. 9-10 a.m. Punderson State Park, Manor House, 11755 Kinsman Road, Newbury Twp., ohiodnr.gov
5/13
Teen Taste Test. Taste test snacks. 3:30-5 p.m. Twinsburg Public Library, 10050 Ravenna Road, twinsburglibrary.org
5/13-15
The Wizard of Oz. North Pointe Ballet will premiere a new ballet interpretation of the story of Dorothy and her new friends. Lorain Palace Theatre, 617 Broadway, Lorain, lorainpalace.com
Night Sky Viewing. Observe the night sky through telescopes. 8-11 p.m. Observatory Park, 10610 Clay St., Montville Township, geaugaparkdistrict.org
5/14-15
Shearing Weekend. Discover the wonders of wool! 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Lake Metroparks Farmpark, 8800 Euclid Chardon Road, Kirtland, lakemetroparks.com
5/15
Playscape Playdate: Soil and Stuff. Come experiment and have some muddy fun! 1-3 p.m. The Wilderness Center, 9877 Alabama Ave. SW, Wilmot, wildernesscenter.org
5/17
KinderPrep Crafts. Make a fun cupcake flower craft to introduce scissors skills. 2:30 p.m. Parma-Powers Branch Library, 6996 Powers Blvd., cuyahogalibrary.org Youth Archery. Learn about equipment, technique and safety. 6-7 p.m. Sippo Lake Park, Exploration Gateway, 5710-5712 12th St., Canton, starkparks.com
5/18
VolunTEENS. Have fun and make friends while volunteering at the mobile food pantry. 2:30-4:30 p.m. Bedford Branch Library, 70 Columbus Road, cuyahogalibrary.org
5/20
The Wizard of Oz: A Ballet in the Park. Experience this outdoor performance with lawn seating. 7 p.m. Lakeview Park, 1800 West Erie Ave., Lorain, lorainmetroparks.com
5/20-21
Cleveland Asian Festival. Highlights Cleveland’s AsiaTown, diversity, Asian foods, performances and cultures. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. E. 27th St. & Payne Ave., clevelandasianfestival.org
5/20-22
Schoolhouse Rock Live! Jr. Youth Theatre’s spring performance. Fairmount Center for the Arts, 8400 Fairmount Road, Novelty, fairmountcenter.org
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NORTHEAST OHIO PARENTS EVENT SERIES
5/21
Kids’ Fishing. Learn the basics of fishing. 10-11:30 a.m. Goodyear Heights Metro Park, Pioneer Area, 550 Frazier Ave., Akron, summitmetroparks.org The Science of Sound. Grab your instruments and listen up as you discover the science behind sound. 10:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Akron Fossils & Science Center, 2080 S. Cleveland Massillon Road, Copley, akronfossils.com Bark in the Park. Rescue Walk, food trucks, vendors, demonstrations and more. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Lock3, Akron, summithumane.org/bitp Ready, Set, Grow! Children ages 3 and up learn about backyard gardening. 2-3 p.m. North Ridgeville Branch Library, 37500 Bainbridge Road, lorainpubliclibrary.org
5/21-22
Horsefest. Be transported to a time when horses were vital to transportation and working. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Lake Metroparks Farmpark, 8800 Euclid Chardon Road, Kirtland, lakemetroparks.com
5/22
Thrive’s Cinderella. A magical experience for the whole family. 3-5 p.m. Geauga Theater Community Arts Center, 101 Water St., Chardon, geauga.theater
Free, family-friendly entertainment with interactive activities for kids ages 2-9, northeastohioparent.com
Crocker Kids. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Crocker Park, 189 Crocker Park Blvd., Westlake May 17: Princess/ Superhero Dress-up Party
Pinecrest Play Days. 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Park Avenue, Orange Village, May 31: Dress-Up! Princess/Superhero Day
5/23
World Turtle Day. Come out of your shell and wander down to celebrate these radical reptiles. 6-7 p.m. Sippo Lake Park, Exploration Gateway, 5710-5712 12th St., Canton, starkparks.com Bright Builders. Build and control robots and other electronic projects. 4:30-5:30 p.m. Glenville Branch Library, 11900 St. Clair Ave., Cleveland, cpl.org
5/25
Tech for Kids Mini-Workshop: Sphero Robots. Programming a robot is easier than you think. 3:305 p.m. Noble Neighborhood Library, 2800 Noble Road, Cleveland Hts., heightslibrary.org
6/2
The Very Hungry Caterpillar Visit. Grab some popcorn, make a craft and sign up for Summer Reading. 6-7:30 p.m. Mentor Library Lawn, 8215 Mentor Ave., mentorpl.org
6/2-26
Disney’s Newsies. A musical based on the Disney film. Weathervane Playhouse, 1301 Weathervane Lane, Akron, weathervaneplayhouse.com
Fun At First & Main. 10 a.m.-noon, First and Main, Hudson May 24: Superheroes and Princesses! Oh My!
6/4
Bald Eagle & Osprey Kayak. Ages 10+ with an adult. 1-3 p.m. Headwaters Park Boat Launch, 13365 Old State Road, Huntsburg, geaugaparkdistrict.org Kids Day of Safety and Play. Summer reading kick-off, KidArt, physical fitness challenge, toucha-truck and more. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Mainstreet Medina, mainstreetmedina.com Touch a Truck. Get up close and personal with awesome trucks and vehicles. 11 a.m.-noon. Morley Library, 184 Phelps St., Painesville, morleylibrary.org
6/4-5
Art in the Village. Legacy Village will transform into an art lovers’ paradise with an eclectic mix of artists. 25001 Cedar Rd, Lyndhurst, legacy-village.com
6/5
Zoothing Hour. For guests with different abilities who do not like loud noises or crowds. 9-10 a.m. Akron Zoo, 505 Euclid Ave., Akron, akronzoo.org
Family Day at the Akron Art Museum. Games, projects and videos about art. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 1 S. High St., akronartmuseum.org
6/9-11
Coshocton Hot Air Balloon Festival. Kiddie rides, entertainment balloon launches and more. 707 Kenilworth Ave., Coshocton, coshoctonhotairballoonfestival. com
6/11
Royalty on the Rails. An afternoon on the train with Polynesian Princess, Ocean DemiGod and more. Noon. Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, Rockside Station, cvsr.org
6/11-12
Sow & Grow Pollinator Festival. Experience the past and present farming lifestyle. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Hale Farm & Village, 2686 Oak Hill Road, Bath, wrhs.org Fairy Days Festival. Magical family play day where rolling fields are transformed into a country fairyland. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Heritage Farms, 6050 Riverview Road, Peninsula, heritagefarms.com
6/13-17
Gadzooks! For Kids. Music and creative art to develop greater appreciation for animals and nature. 10-11:30 a.m. Peninsula Art Academy, 1600 Mill St. West, Peninsula, peninsulaartacademy.org
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Your Aging
PARENTS
Dealing with a Parent’s Dementia Diagnosis
F
or the last seven years, I have navigated the world of dementia with my Mom. Specifically, vascular dementia, which was caused by a stroke that damaged blood vessels in her brain. There are also several types of dementia, not all of which are caused by sudden illness or events such as my Mom’s stroke. Although there is no known cure for dementia, recognizing the symptoms and common concerns will help you support a parent who is diagnosed with this condition. WHAT IS DEMENTIA
What is dementia? The National Institute on Aging from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services defines dementia as “the loss of cognitive functioning — thinking, remembering, and reasoning — to such an extent that it interferes with a person’s daily life and activities.”
Though it is normal to forget where something is or take longer to complete a task, especially as we age, there are signals and signs that something may be more significant than a moment of forgetfulness. Nancy Sutula, vice president of residential services at Menorah Park in Beachwood, says one of the most common concerns she hears from families is in regards to driving issues. For instance, when a parent shares that it “took them longer to get there, or they got turned around,” these may signal changes that are worth further investigation. Significant and consistent changes in thinking, behavior and movement may be signs of dementia. WHAT DO THOSE CHANGES LOOK LIKE?
Some examples of behaviors that have been documented to be related to dementia include: ■ Memory loss, poor decision-making skills, or confusion ■ Challenges with speech, understanding and expressing thoughts, or reading and writing ■ Getting lost or wandering in familiar areas ■ Challenges with finances such as handling money or paying bills ■ Repetition of questions ■ Use of unusual words to refer to familiar objects
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By Jeannie Fleming-Gifford ■ Taking an abnormal amount of time to complete regular tasks ■ Loss of interest in daily activities or events ■ Hallucinations, delusions or paranoia ■ Lack of self-control ■ Lack of empathy ■ Loss of balance or other challenge with movement WHERE TO START?
With many symptoms — that may or may not be dementia — and several different types of dementia, it can feel overwhelming when you are concerned about an aging loved one. Sutula says that the best place to start is by making an appointment with your loved one’s primary care physician. Use caution and kindness, and remember that this is no time for arguing with a parent. In fact, brain changes may be preventing a loved one from reasoning and talking calmly about the changes, which may be causing you concern. One of the most common tests is the MMSE, or Mini Mental State Examination. This is an 11 question measure that tests five areas of cognition. After the initial appointment with the physician, there may be referrals to specialists. These could include neurologists, psychiatrists or geriatric specialists. SUPPORT FOR YOUR PARENTS
Health issues can be overwhelming to diagnose and work through at any age. Sutula says it may be especially hard to see a once strong and independent parent show signs of decline. How can you support your parent(s) if or when you believe symptoms may be pointing to an onset of dementia?
■ Keep calm and positive. ■ Be thoughtful but thorough when identifying the challenges that your parent is having which are cause for concern.
■ Finally, be proactive and work to have your parent assessed by a medical professional.
Sutula also recommends education and connections to resources in the community. Though this can feel like an overwhelming and even lonely journey, there are many who are navigating the same path. Work with and lean on local and national resources such as the Alzheimer’s Association. The process of diagnosis may take time, and there are different degrees and types of dementia. Early diagnosis will provide an opportunity to explore resources and support, which will help both our parent(s) and ourselves maintain the best quality of living, even with a difficult diagnosis. Sutula reminds us that as we care for our parents, be sure to take care of ourselves. 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. She has spent the last seven years learning about dementia and wrote a memoir called “The Gift I Never Wanted,” which chronicles her mother’s journey living with vascular dementia.
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#CLE MAMA
. . . e M er g n u o Y r a e D SARA CARNES • Facebook = Sara Carnes • Instagram = saracarnes4
5
Things I’d Tell Myself with Younger Children
O
ne of my favorite songs is called “Dear Younger Me,” by Mercy Me. We play it on air, and everytime I hear it, the song makes me think. I know we all have things we’d probably do differently if our “older self ” could give us some advice. And that’s what the song is all about. My daughters are 10 years apart, so I feel like I’ve had a little opportunity to see things play out with my first daughter, and then learn and maybe do things differently with my younger daughter. And now... looking back, now that my younger daughter is in the sixth grade, these are a few things I’d tell my “younger me” as a parent. Maybe they’ll be helpful to you, too.
1
It’s OK for Your Kids to be Bored. Try to curb the need to entertain kids, or always have an activity planned for them. Kids need some boredom. Don’t constantly give them electronics. For example, when you’re out on a drive, have them look out the window or just think, instead of watching a DVR or playing on the iPad. I’ve learned boredom is important in building creativity and imagination in my kids (and myself ).
2
Make Them Practice. I can’t tell you how many times my older daughter has reminded me and said... “I can’t believe you let me quit piano!” I get it; kids don’t like to practice. But we’ve found that if you get through the hard stretch and offer incentives, they’ll get through it. My younger daughter doesn’t like practicing, either, but as parents we’ve decided playing an instrument is important. So having them stick to it – even when they complain – is key.
Pictured: Sara and her daughters, Makayla and Reagan
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3
It’s OK to be Last. I’d remind my kids they don’t have to be first at everything. Winning is wonderful and important in many ways... but it’s not everything. I’d teach them that it’s more important in life to step back and help others than worry about being first or the best.
4
Play Outside When You Can. My girls have always played outside a lot, but I think this is an important one. There are so many things to learn about nature. There’s so much to explore, and it helps give kids a sense of adventure. Make them play outside more.
5
Make Your Kids Do Chores. Even when they’re young, kids can learn so much by doing their own chores. I’ve also learned that having kids help make their own lunch is very beneficial. For example, my daughters started making their own school lunches around fourth or fifth grade. For us, it was a great way for them to learn how to make healthy, creative lunches that they actually wanted to eat. Both my kids started doing their own laundry at about age 10. Kids who learn to do chores at early ages really learn a sense of responsibility and important life skills that will take them through life.
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36 | Family Living at Its Best