Cincinnati Family magazine January 2023

PUBLISHER Stewart Day

EDITOR IN CHIEF

Susan Swindell Day susan@daycommedia.com

EDITOR

Amanda Hayward amandahayward@ daycommedia.com

THINGS TO DO/ ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Amanda Ciani amandaciani@ daycommedia.com

GRAPHIC DESIGN DayCom Associates

PRODUCTION

Tim Henard timhenard@ daycommedia.com

ACCOUNT MANAGERS

Theresa Cicchinelli theresa@daycommedia.com Stewart Day stewart@daycommedia.com

DISTRIBUTION MANAGER

Jonathan McCormack distributioncf@ daycommedia.com

Talking to your baby in full sentences and making eye contact is recommended by speech pathologists.

INTHISISSUE 2 Editor's Note

Babies are superheroes.

Subscribe to our Newsletter online and Join us on Facebook for Giveaways & more!

CINCINNATI FAMILY MAGAZINE is published monthly by DAYCOM MEDIA, INC. Although every precaution has been taken to ensure accuracy of published material, DAYCOM MEDIA cannot be held responsible for opinions expressed or facts supplied by its authors. Editorial and business offices are located at 10945 Reed Hartman Hwy., Ste 323, Cincinnati, OH 45242. The phone number is 513-322-5052.

CINCINNATI FAMILY MAGAZINE is copyright © 2023 by DayCom Media, Inc., a member of The Family Magazine Syndicate. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.

Win a prize pack from Urban Air Adventure Park Cincinnati; moms discuss whether or not they like a gap of years between their kids.

January and February bring Open Houses to area private schools; local news briefs just for parents.

9 Health

To raise a healthy eater, be a healthy eater. Plus: when snow days hit, be ready for sledding fun with safety in mind.

Babies benefit by being able to babble together. As much as possible, end isolation for your little one, get him socialized and get him the language development he needs.

cincinnatifamilymagazine.com

“If I had my way, I'd remove January from the calendar altogether and have an extra July instead. "

— Roald Dahl, British novelist, poet, short-story writer and screenwriter.

Post-holidays, have yourselves a comfy little January. There's still plenty of goings on to keep cabin fever at bay!

Shen Yun comes to Cincinnati for performances at Music Hall, January 28 & 29.

the little things

By Amanda Hayward

Babies are Superheros

Babies truly are incredible, aren’t they? I mean, they grow and develop in our belly, make a grand appearance then there they are, braving a whole new world. Something that amazes me the most is that they know exactly what to do - find the food supply, cling to those they love the most, sleep and repeat. A baby's natural instincts and vast ability to learn blows my mind.

Your little one is learning at a very rapid pace - did you know that in the first few years of your little one’s life, their brain nearly tripled in size? Not only is your baby’s brain going through a weight growth spurt, it’s filled with 100 billion neurons, able to soak up knowledge like a sponge. As your newborn develops into a toddler, you’ll see his super brain learn language, motion and emotion in a heck of a short time frame. Now, this is something we really need to think about when we find ourselves “rushing” our baby’s milestones worrying that they aren’t developmentally where they need to be. Your little one is doing things at his own pace, so be patient and know that your tiny babe has come a long way.

One day, Baby is a blob who doesn’t do much more than flail. About a month later, he is able to lift his head; at around five months, he is suddenly rolling over. By seven months, you may be surprised to find your once immoble baby now sitting up on his own. And as early as eight months, he is standing up, then climbing around your living room furniture. Magically, at 13 months (or earlier or even later), there he goes taking his first steps. (And think, in the decades we’ve been alive, most of us still haven’t figured out how to juggle!) Put this all into perspective for a moment - babies are like superheroes really!

The best thing we can do to help our baby’s development is to encourage them, talk to them and play with them. You may not think you are doing enough sometimes, but you are. Simply talking with Baby while you change their diaper or splashing during bathtime and smiling at them when they start their day is all enough. They learn a little each day and they are watching your every move. You don’t have to go to that weekly story time to introduce your baby to language and literature - simply reading books before bedtime is enough. You don’t have to sign up for 5 million play dates to socialize with your babyinteractions with family and friends will do!

Patience is key when it comes to your baby's growth and development - so sit back and enjoy the show. Don’t expect them to do too much too soon and don’t be disappointed if they are taking a little longer than expected. Your baby is a miniature superhero who can make even the gloomiest of days bright and happy just by smiling or cooing at you. As hard as it is to enjoy every little moment, they say, embrace your little one's unique super powers as often as you can. Every baby is different; one-of-a-kind and a unique little superhero, growing and learning at their own pace, in their own special way.

FEEDBACK

Question:

“I have an 11-year-old and a newborn. Honestly, I could not imagine having two close in age and both demanding me and my attention. Pros and cons to both, but I'm team age gap!"

Alexis Corinne Allen

“Mine are 15 years apart and so close! Bonus: when the youngest was little and I needed to go somewhere, I couldn't take her, free babysitting!"

months. The last one has been the biggest adjustment."

Holly Schulkers

“I have an only. So, I can't comment based on the parenting side of it. But for the sibling side, I say close together. My brother is 10 years older than me and we're not close. It would have been nice to have someone close to my age when we were younger and even now."

Cindy Hall

We are giving away a family four-pack of passes. Find your next adventure at Urban Air! They have fun attractions that cater to any level of adventurer. Urban Air features a large-scale indoor trampoline center that hosts open jump, parties and more. Find more information at urbanair.com/ohio-cincinnati. Enter to win under the "Contests" tab at cincinnatifamilymagazine.com through January 13.

“Three years between has been great! Enough of a gap where they don't feel too close to compete, but close enough in age to relate to each other and still like similar things. My sister and I were five years apart and it was so hard always being in different stages of childhood/ teenage years because we didn't have a lot in common."

Jessica Lehmann

"I have eight, ages 6 - 26. They tend to pair up as every other. Number two favors number four. Number six favors number eight. Number five favors number seven. So 18 months was too close, but four years was perfect."

“Definitely happy mine are close in age. They entertain each other pretty well, I can pass down clothes, shoes, toys, before they are too outdated or out of style. I have six kids so getting as much use out of things as possible is awesome."

Holly Kay

“Close. It was hard when they were little ... just seeing pics when they were tiny gives me heart palpitations. Now that they are 16, 15 and 12-and-a-half, it's fun!"

“I have a 13 year old and a 12 year old and sometimes I wish they were farther apart in age."

Amy Coleman

ON THE COVER

Cover Kid, Eric,

“Close in age. Mine are about two years apart and it's perfect. Easy to entertain them both as they have the same interest, enjoy the same type of activities still."

“We have them all over the place at ages 19, 15, 15, 14, 9, 5, 2

“Mine are five years apart and they get along and play together all of the time."

Amber Dixon-Harmon

“Close in age. I have 16, 13, 4 & 1.Never a dull moment!"

Amber Scott

Heather Henderson

Angie Tucker

Amanda Renderos

Rebekah Breech Erck

Would you either have your kids closer in age or more of a gap in between?

Join us on Facebook for contests giveaways and more!

photographed by Sienna Photography at Mill Street Studios wearing apparel from Castle House in Cincinnati.

by Amanda Ciani

Private School Winter Open Houses

Explore a variety of campuses, meet faculty and staff and learn more about each school's approach when you attend a private school open house this winter. In selecting a school for your child, if private school is where

Bethany School bethanyschool.org 513-771-7462

555 Albion Ave., Glendale, Oh 513-771-7462 February 5, 2 - 4 p.m.

Calvary Christian School ccsky.org 859-356-9201

5955 Taylor Mill Road Covington, Ky

January 21, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. February 25, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Children’s Meeting House cmhschool.com 513-683-4757

927 O’Bannonville Road Loveland, Oh January 29, 2 - 4 p.m.

Cincinnati Christian Schools cincinnatichristian.org 513-892-8500

7474 Morris Road, Fairfield, Oh 7350 Dixie Highway Fairfield, Oh January 28

Elementary: 1 - 3 p.m. JH/SH: 3 - 5 p.m.

Covington Latin School covingtonlatin.org 859-291-7044

21 E 11th St., Covington, Ky Parent Info Session and Student Game Night, January 17, 6 p.m.; Meet the Trojans Student Activities and Sports Fair, March 8, 6 p.m.

Cincinnati Hills Christian Academy chca-oh.org 513-247-0900

8283 East Kemper Road Cincinnati, Oh Open House: January 28, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Mars Hill Academy marshill.edu 513-770-3223

4230 Aero Drive, Mason, Oh PK- 2nd Grade Open House: February 3 (see website for more details)

you're heading, then take this opportunity to learn as much as you can. Discover all of the open houses happening in the new year and make due diligence a part of your new year mission!

Mercy Montessori Center mercymontessori.org 513-475-6700

2335 Grandview Ave. Cincinnati, Oh February 5, 1 - 3 p.m.

Seven Hills School 7hills.org 513-728-2400

Hillsdale Campus: 5400 Red Bank Road Cincinnati, Oh Doherty Campus: 2726 Johnstone Place Cincinnati, Oh Virtual Student and Parent Panel: January 19, 7 - 8 p.m.

St. Gertrude stgertrudesch.org 513-561-8020

6543 Miami Ave., Madeira, Oh January 29, 1 - 3 p.m.

St. Ursula Villa School stursulavilla.org 513-871-7218

3660 Vineyard Place Cincinnati, Oh

All-School Open House: January 22, 12 - 2 p.m.

The Summit Country Day School summitcds.org 513-871-4700

2161 Grandin Road Cincinnati, Oh

Montessori Information Session: January 12, 8:30 - 10:15 a.m.

Lower School Parent Preview Day: January 24, 8:30 - 10 a.m.

Middle School Parent Preview Day: January 24, 8:30 - 10 a.m.

West Chester Cooperative Nursery School wwcns.net 513-779-5827

9463 Cincinnati Columbus Road, West Chester, Oh

Open House January 21, 10 a.m.12 p.m.

A young student at Summit Country Day school works on the computer keyboard.

Urban Air in Cincinnati has added laser tag for all ages at their location.

Urban Air Boasts New Laser Tag

Family-favorite play destination, Urban Air, just got even more fun! A brand-new attraction is now available at the 3321 Alamo Ave. location. Kids of all ages will love running, hiding and blasting their way through the new Laser Tag attraction. With obstacles, dark lightning and a little smoke, this course is a challenging and fun way to bond with friends and family. Other popular features of Urban Air Adventure Park include the Adventure Hub, climbing walls, ropes course, sky rider, warrior course and so much more. All of these amazing activities make Urban Air the 2022 Best of Parenting Away-From-Home-Party destination. Learn more by visiting urbanair.com/ohio-cincinnati or call 513-322-3130.

NEWSY BITS

WRTS NKY Now Open

Families in NKY now have a new safe and fun destination for learning and play. We Rock the Spectrum is a wonderful play place option for families with special needs and neurotypical kids alike; the new location opened at 332 Kenton Lands Road in Erlanger, Kentucky last month. This completely renovated facility is home to many fun attractions for kids to explore like swings, cash mats, a zip line, trampoline, indoor play structure, sensory toys, crafts area, calming room and more! This amazing gym for kids promises families of all abilities, “A place where you never have to say, ‘I’m Sorry!’” Along with daily open play, this location will also offer special events like birthday parties, field trips, parents’ night out and even summer camps.

Find out more by calling 859727-9787 or by visiting werockthespectrumnorthernkentucky. com.

TOCA Soccer Grand Opening

The next generation of soccer players have a new location to train and play. TOCA Football’s Cincinnati center is located at 5999 Meijer Drive in Milford where services will be available for kids as young as 18 months. TOCA is an official soccer training partner of Major League Soccer, and TOCA Cincinnati’s state-of-the-art training studios will be available for individuals, small groups, teams, clubs and schools, too.

Visit TOCAfootball.com for more information.

New at Metro Parks of Butler Country

MetroParks of Butler County no longer requires a vehicle parking permit for entry. MetroParks of BC boasts 14 parks with more than 5,000 acres of land for families to explore together. The parks also offer regular events for children including the popular “Show and Tell on the Farm” series and the brand-new “Ears are for Reading” children’s program. Ears are for Reading allows little ones to practice their literacy skills by reading to the Historic Farmstead’s furry and feathered friends.

Find more programming and explore all that MetroParks of Butler Country has to offer by calling 513-867-5835 or visit yourmetroparks.net.

Free Family Fun at The Acres Cincinnati

Ring in the New Year with some nostalgic family-fun for FREE. The Acres is offering Cincinnati Family magazine readers one free game of mini-golf during the month of January if they mention “Cincinnati Family magazine” when they check in. Open year-round and boasting mini-golf, a driving range, heated tent, fire pit and great food and drink, The Acres is an amazing destination for families, friends and “kids” of all ages. Eat, drink and play like yesterday. The Acres is located at 9941 Reading Road in Cincinnati and is open daily for golf 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. For more information, call 513-733-1100 or visit acrescincinnati.com.

It’s official — the days have grown shorter and colder, subsequently leading to more time indoors. This means more access to food and couch time. For kids, this also leaves time for extra snacks and TV time galore.

Catherine Anthony, registered dietitian at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center HealthWorks, says along with these chilly winter months comes rich foods that may be delicious, but not so much nutritious.

“These foods can end up being around the house all season long, providing extra opportunities for choosing these foods for meals or snacks,” says Anthony.

According to Anthony, obesity has increased significantly over the past few years. Recent research shows that the rate of rise in obesity in kids ages 2 - 19 has nearly doubled during the pandemic, which means kids in this age range were gaining weight almost twice as fast as they were from January 2018February 2020. The cause? The study cites that this could be caused by “increased stress, irregular mealtimes, less access to nutritious

Make EatingHealthy Stick

by Amanda Hayward

foods, increased screen time, and fewer opportunities for physical activity (e.g., no recreational sports),” (ncbi. nlm.nih.gov/ pmc/articles/ PMC8445379).

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “The prevalence of obesity for children and adolescents aged 2 - 19 years in 2017 - 2020 was 19.7 percent and affected about 14.7 million children and adolescents,” (cdc.gov/obesity/data/childhood. html).

START THEM YOUNG

Introducing kids to healthy foods right from the get-go (aka babyhood) can instill lifelong habits.

“It is very important to introduce your baby to a variety of healthy foods from the beginning,” says Anthony. “Starting with exposures to whole food flavors and textures such as fruits, vegetables, meat, beans, lentils, eggs, fish and whole grains.”

Opting for wholesome foods versus highly processed foods is key to help set the stage for not only healthy habits, but for disease prevention as well, says Anthony.

“Having family meals from the beginning and modeling healthy, balanced eating is also recommended and has shown to have positive effects on the development of children,” she adds.

Also, having healthy foods readily available in the home will be the food that your kids eat.

Eating healthy is just plain hard for some families. It is easy to get stuck in a rut and pointing fingers and convincing someone to eat better is easier said than done. So let’s think realistically about helping our kids eat better, one baby step at a time. Anthony offers some helpful, real ways to get started:

START SMALL - Real change comes from small realistic, sustainable changes that can build on one another. Ex: Aim for one veggie a day rather than committing to having five vegetables per day (when you currently eat none).

ADDING INSTEAD OF TAKING AWAYPeople, especially kids, are often resistant when their favorite foods and drinks are taken away. Instead, consider adding something. For example, add a piece of fruit with breakfast and a vegetable with dinner.

INVOLVE YOUR KIDS - Get your kids involved in making healthy changes; give them options as to what you could work on together. For example, try asking, “Would you like to choose a fruit to add to your breakfast?”

“Research shows that involving kids in the planning, preparation, and cooking process can be especially helpful in getting them to try new vegetables,” says Anthony (pubmed.ncbi. nlm.nih.gov/24709485).

Kids follow what you do. If you eat better, so will they. Remember it’s about baby steps; now go set your family up for success on their health journey!

Amanda Hayward is editor of this magazine and a mom of three kids.

When YOU eat healthy, so will your kids. Start small and make realistic changes to set a lifelong example.

Sledding Safety for Kids

by Nyketa Gaffney

Sledding dates back to the late 1800s in America, so there is a long history and love for this sport ingrained in our country from generation to generation. It’s enthusiastic, self-driven fun the entire family can enjoy around the neighborhood - should the landscape permit - or by taking a quick trip to the nearest winter-theme park.

Although sledding is thrilling, it can also be problematic. What has held true through the years is a deep concern for sled safety. Although ranked behind skiing, snowboarding and ice skating, sledding accidents cause tens of thousands of kids to be seen in the emergency room on an annual basis. Some of the most common sled injuries include: fractures, strains and sprains – primarily to the head, shoulders and knees.

“People have ended up in the (Intensive Care Unit), had to have a breathing tube from striking their head,” UC physician Dr. Woods Curry told Channel 9, WCPO in 2016. “That’s why it’s incredibly important to protect your head.” Collisions are the lead culprit! The speed in which you obtain by sledding is a risk factor for colliding into other people and objects in the surrounding environment that may cause concussions or other head trauma.

In a study conducted at the Center for Injury Research and Policy at Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus, Ohio, they uncovered in nearly a decade of research that more than 220,000 patients were seen in the emergency room from 2008 to 2017 as a result of sledding. Children were seven times more likely to be the patient as compared to

adults, 63 percent of all patients were injured as a result of a collision and 82 percent of the children seen in the hospital were specifically treated for head trauma.

Before sending your kids out to sled, be sure to teach them the rules of the slopes.

What are the necessary precautions this winter? How do we indulge in the excitement of sled season while maintaining the highest level of safety for our children and for ourselves? Here is what parents should keep in mind before bundling up the family and heading out the door:

WEAR THE RIGHT GEAR - Helmets, shoulder pads and knee pads are protective equipment that reduce the possibility of injury altogether. Remember to dress for the weather. A winter jacket, hat, gloves, snow pants and snow boots are appropriate to combat the elements – especially the cold air when picking up speed down a hill.

CHECK YOUR ENVIRONMENT FIRSTWhether at home or at a theme park, be sure that there is nothing obstructing the sled course or that there are dangerous objects in line for potential collision. The pathway of

sledding should never end in the street, a parking lot, or near large bodies of “frozen” water.

FOLLOW BEST PRACTICES - Seat your children, and yourself, feet first on the sled. Sled during good daylight hours. Choose sleds that have steering and braking features. Teach your children how to eject themselves from a sled by rolling over if going too fast. Each practice prevents an accident.

Sledding is an American tradition. Families bond over fun interactive activities which provide lifelong memories. Above all, the goal is to protect our loved ones in the midst of creating these unforgettable moments. Have fun and be safe out there!

Nyketa Gaffney is an award-winning writer and a frequent contributor to Cincinnati Family. She resides in Cincinnati.

Baby Talk ... and How

In addition to feeling overwhelmed with work/home balance, ensuring our kids have a proper education and being overloaded with an abundance of information these days, parents tend to also be more and more concerned about their child’s speech and language development. The worry of your baby being developmentally delayed is common and there are many reasons why you shouldn’t be. Here’s why.

Concern is Normal

“All babies and toddlers are different and meet their milestones at different times,” says

Jessica Silverman, MA, CCC-SLP, director of Speech & Language Services at Big Blue Canopy Pediatric Gym & Therapy Services. “I have many kiddos that are late talkers but early walkers, and vice versa. Their little brains are working overtime to meet these milestones and often one gets put on hold while another is mastered/achieved.”

If you find your baby isn’t babbling all of the words you had hoped, or that baby at the weekly playdate meetup is already trying to sing “Happy Birthday,” before yours, first things first, do not compare. Parents will immediately jump to Google, aimlessly reading

up on language delays and disorders if they even think for a second their baby is “behind.” Before you jump to conclusions, know that although a vast majority of kids learn language quickly, learning at such a young age does take time and practice. If you look at the big picture, it is quite amazing how they pick up words and phrases so quickly in the first place. Give them a little grace (and yourself), and if you find that time isn’t on your side, you can always turn to your pediatrician.

“I always try to let parents know that the early intervention age is incredible when it comes to listening to spoken language and

You’re not alone if you have second-guesed whether your baby is up to speed on his speech and language development. Try not to worry yourself to death, and know that every child meets their milestones at their own time.

learning to speak,” says Silverman. “I often make the analogy that our 0 - 3 age kiddos are like little sponges, soaking up the language that they hear and that they are exposed to on a daily basis.”

If you have turned to speech therapy and you are worried your little one is quiet initially at the start of treatment, don’t panic, assures Silverman. This is common with toddlers, and they are being far more productive than you may think.

“These kiddos are constantly soaking up the language during tasks,” she continues. “ I have had many parents tell me, ‘He/she was so quiet the entire 30 minutes with you but after we left, they said many of the words you used in therapy on the drive home.’”

How Babies Learn

Simply said, babies learn from you (and everyone else around them). One tip on helping your baby speak, is to talk, talk talk! The more you interact and speak with your baby throughout the day, the more your baby will pick up the language.

Just because language appears to be instinctive it doesn’t mean babies and toddlers don’t benefit greatly from interaction with their parents and caregivers. In fact, a baby’s day-to-day experience is so important to the process. For example, when starting the day, talk through each step at a time - every little word matters! Try saying, “We need to get dressed. First, we need to take off your jammies. I need to pull your shirt over your head …” says Silverman.

Another activity that I tell parents to engage with at home would be narrative play or language bombardment tasks,” she continues. “This involves playing with your child and talking/narrating throughout play.”

You can say phrases such as, “The cow is hungry. Can you feed him his food? Here comes the farmer. He needs to open the gate…” Each task you engage in throughout the day provides more opportunities to expose your developing baby to new words and language concepts.

Babies are very visual as well. Drawing attention to your mouth as you say words is a great way for Baby to learn to sound them out. Have you ever watched your little’s tiny mouth try to mimic yours? They are watching and learning more than you may think. Try to hold preferred objects close to your mouth so that Baby can see how your mouth is moving to produce sounds. Repeat back sounds that your child makes to teach early conversational turn-taking.

“Making silly faces, sounds, etc. will be a fun activity for your child but also show them how your mouth is moving to make the sounds,” explains Silverman. “When your child makes sounds, try to repeat them back. This will teach them early conversational turn-tak-

ing. For example, you talk and I listen, then you say something back and I listen.”

Encouraging Baby to Talk

The earlier you expose your baby to language the better. Most babies at 3 or 4 months will be making mostly vowel sounds, for example. So this is a great time to start making repetitive consonant sounds, such as pointing to pictures and talking about “the cat, the cow and the canary,” during reading time.

If your baby isn’t speaking just yet, Silverman suggests providing pictures of preferred items. This way, your little one can grab the picture of the item they want even though they aren’t able to express that through words.

“This may help decrease frustration the child might be feeling because they are not able to communicate verbally,” she says.

Teaching simple baby signs may be helpful as well. This can provide a means of communication if your child is not yet verbalizing words, she continues.

“Babies typically are able to imitate motor patterns with the body before speech/oral motor patterns with the mouth,” she explains. “I always try to pair the initial sounds (exaggerated) or words with the signs so that the child does not solely rely on only the sign to communicate.”

Speech and Language Delays

If you are worried about your baby’s speech or language development, first things first, try not to panic and ring up your pediatrician. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics’ website, healthychildren.org, there is a difference between a language and a speech. A kid with a language delay might say words well but only be able to put two words together, whereas a child with a speech delay might use words and phrases to express ideas but be hard to understand. If you are seeing this, then don’t be afraid to pick up the phone and make the call. Early intervention is key to helping your kid and a better chance for success. If your pediatrician thinks that there may be a delay, they may refer you to a speechlanguage pathologist (SLP). The SLP will check your child’s speech and language skills and go from there.

Resources for Baby and You

Silverman provides helpful resources you can use as you go on your language journey with Baby.

YOUTUBE: Cocomelon, Little Baby Bum, Mrs. Rachel - Great sing-along videos and more to help encourage speech development, learning ABC’s and I23’s and more.

LANGUAGE BOOKS: First 100 Words books for example - contain a variety of common objects, various language concepts, action words, etc.; great for teaching new vocabulary.

Behind-the-flap Books: Helpful with targeting “what” and “where” questions while reading aloud.

TOYS: These particular toys are great with the early intervention population:

POTATO HEAD - Teaches body parts, following directions, requesting (e.g. “put on”, “take off”, etc.)

LITTLE PEOPLE FIGURES/ANIMALS - Teaches a variety of language concepts, producing animal sounds, identifying common objects and more.

BUBBLES - You can use a variety of simple words with early developing speech sounds during play (e.g. “pop”, “bubble”, “go”, “open”, “up”, “down”).

CARS/TRAINS - Work on imitating environmental sounds for the vehicles (e.g. “choo choo”, “vroom”, etc.), different spatial concepts (up, down, under, etc.) and more.

BALL MAZE TOYS - Can request colors/objects (balls), make requests for actions (e.g. “go”, “push”, “pull”, “move”, etc).

LOCK AND KEY TOYS - Requires kids to request help with opening doors, responding to “wh” questions (e.g. “what is in there?”, “where was the…?”, or “who was behind the door?”).

Amanda Hayward is editor of this publication and a mom of three

LANGUAGE MILESTONES DURING

YEAR 1

Watch for these predictable signs of language development:

3 MONTHS: Cooing, smiling, and crying for different reasons (e.g. hungry versus tired cry).

6 MONTHS: Babbling and using a variety of speech sounds such as /m/, /d/, /b/, and a variety of vowels. Babies should also show interest in listening to you speak with them.

9 MONTHS: Imitating modeled sounds, making vocal exchanges with others, starting to follow some routine commands and understanding some common objects when named.

12 MONTHS: Using a few words (twofive), producing longer strings of jargon/ gibberish (using a variety of sounds), understanding being told “no”, etc.

SOURCE: Silverman.

ACTIVITIES AND AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAMS

BUCKNER MARTIAL ARTS

8216 Highland Pointe Drive, West Chester 513-779-2413 | bucknermartialarts.com

Voted one the best martial arts studios in Cincinnati, we combine defense skills with personal development. Students progress quickly while learning leadership and strong values under the teaching of master instructors. Free uniform with class sign-up.

CCM PREP 290 CCM Blvd., Cincinnati 513-556-2595 | ccm.uc.edu/arts4all/prep.html

CCM Prep offers music, dance and theatre arts for students of all ages and abilities — including classes for adults, children, teens and pre-professional students preparing careers in the performing arts. Both at CCM and through satellite locations and partnerships, we provide excellent, enjoyable and accessible performing arts opportunities that educate and inspire the whole student and serve as a catalyst for transforming lives and empowering communities.

MASON DANCE CENTER 600-B Reading Road, Mason 513-398-0353 | masondance.com

We provide an opportunity for anyone ages 3 - adult to discover the joys of dance. Ballet, tap, jazz, hip-hop, modern, pre-professional ballet, pre-dance combos, adult classes. We offer summer and mini-camps!

BLUE MARBLE BOOKS 1356 S. Fort Thomas Ave., Fort Thomas, KY 859-781-0602 | bluemarblebooks.com

Blue Marble Books was founded in 1979 as a way to promote youth literacy and a joy for reading. We continue that legacy to this day, curating a space where children can discover the magic of books and the adventures to be found therein. We also enjoy special ordering for adult books, kid-friendly events, virtual Story Times every Saturday, and customer rewards. We also work closely with schools,

building, to STEM and robotics - it’s an unforgettable experience!

by Amanda Ciani

THINGS TO DO JANUARY

Broadway in Cincinnati

— presents —

Anastasia

Jan. 3 - 15 Aronoff Center 650 Walnut St., Cincinnati 513-621-2787 or cincinnatiarts.org

A romantic, adventure-filled new musical inspired by the popular film everyone adores! Be ready to be dazzled as this production transports you from the twilight of the Russian Empire to the euphoria of Paris in the 1920s; recommended for ages 7 and older, ages 4 and younger will not be admitted.

Veronica Stern portrays Anya in the national tour of Anastasia

sun 1

CHRISTMAS AT THE JUNCTION

Last day. The world’s largest train display. EnterTRAINment Junction, 7379 Squire Court, West Chester; 12 - 6 p.m.; see website for ticket details; 513-898-8000 or entertrainmentjunction.com.

CONEY ISLAND’S NIGHTS OF LIGHTS

Ends Jan 2. Driving through the region’s largest synchronized holiday light spectacular. Coney Island, 6201 Kellogg Ave., Cincinnati; 6 - 10 p.m.; $30 Fri - Sun, $25 Mon - Thu (one to eight person vehicles); coneyislandpark.com/event/nightsof-lights.

HOLIDAY JUNCTION

Ends Jan 2. Don’t miss out on this family holiday tradition. Cincinnati Museum Center, 1301 Western Ave., Cincinnati; 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.; $10 general admission OR add Holiday Junction to any museum experience for $5, free for members; 513-2877000 or cincymuseum.org/holidayjunction.

HOLIDAY WHOPLA ICE RINK

Hit the ice with family this winter at the Holiday Whopla skating rink. Whoville Ice Rink, 39 North Broad Street, Middletown; Skate times available Jan. 1 - 16, see website for schedule.; $10 admission, group discount available; middletownholidaywhopla@gmail. com or holidaywhopla.com.

JOURNEY BOREALIS

Ends Jan 2. Journey Borealis showcases over 1 million lights and holiday installations by independent artists. Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park, 1763 Hamilton Cleves Road, Hamilton; 6 - 9 p.m.; $25 per carload for non-members,$15 per carload for members; 513-868-8663 or journeyborealis.com.

KROHN WINTER SHOW:

CELESTIAL

HOLIDAY

Ends Jan. 7. Trains and Celestial Holiday featuring white poinsettia. Krohn Conservatory, 1501 Eden Park Drive, Cincinnati; 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.; $10 adults, $7 children 5 - 17 years old, free for ages 4 and younger; 513421-4086 or cincinnatiparks.com.

KIDSPACE OPEN STUDIO

Combine science, play and art to create something new in the KidSPACE studio. Cincinnati Museum Center, 1301 Western Ave., Cincinnati; 2 p.m.; program included

with admission: $16.50 adults, $12.50 seniors and ages 3 - 12, free for members; 513-287-7000 or cincymuseum.org.

NEW YEAR’S DAY ORIENTEERING

Start the year off with an adventure in orienteering. Governor Bebb MetroPark, 1979 Bebb Park Lane, Okeana; 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.; $15 nonmembers, $10 OCIN members; 513867-5835 or yourmetroparks.net.

THE STATION ON THE LEVEE

All aboard The Station on the Levee! Families are invited to take a ride on the holiday train inside The Gallery. Newport on the Levee, 1 Levee Way, Newport; 12 - 6 p.m.; $5 per person; 859-291-0550 or newportonthelevee. com/the-station-on-the-levee.

mon 2

CINCINNATI BENGALS HOME GAME

Tonight’s Monday Night Football game will be against the Buffalo Bills. Paycor Stadium, 1 Paul Brown Stadium, Cincinnati; 8:30 p.m.; see website for ticket details; 513-6218383 or bengals.com/tickets.

SUMMIT PARK ICE RINK

Get gliding, practice a pirouette and have lots of family fun on the ice at the Summit Park Warm 98.5 Ice Rink. Summit Park Warm 98.5 Ice Rink, 4335 Glendale Milford Road, Blue Ash; open daily through January 8, 12 - 2 p.m., 3 - 5 p.m. OR 6 - 8

p.m.; $7 per person, 3 and younger free. Price includes skate rental; 513-745-6259 or summitparkblueash. com.

FREE SUPER SPROUTS: MARBLE PAPER

Head to the Children’s Museum KIDSPACE to create a fun preschoolfriendly art project using marble, paint and paper. Cincinnati Museum Center, 1301 Western Ave., Cincinnati; 10:30 a.m.; included with daily admission, $17.50 adults, $13.50 for ages 3 - 12; free for members; 513-287-7000 or cincymuseum.org

tue 3

ANASTASIA

See opener on page 17.

FREE ART PLAY HIKE (register)

Cincinnati Parks and the Contemporary Arts Center have teamed up for this exciting toddler program. Children ages 2 - 7 can get outside and get moving as they get to know the great outdoors with a naturalist. After some outdoor exploring, families can keep the nature-themed fun going by picking up an Art-2-Go bag to create a masterpiece at home. French Park, 3012 Section Road, Cincinnati; 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.; 513-345-8400 or contemporaryartscenter.org/ programs/family-programs/art-playhike.

CINCINNATI FIRE MUSEUM SCAVENGER HUNT

Pick up a scavenger card upon entry and search throughout museum exhibits to find important fire-related artifacts. Find all 12 artifacts to win a fun, wintry prize! Cincinnati Fire Museum, 315 West Court St., Cincinnati; Tuesday - Saturday, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.; $8 adults, $6 ages 7 - 17 years old, free for ages 6 and younger with admission of an adult; 513-621-5553 or cincyfiremuseum. com.

JUMPEROO AT URBAN AIR

Little ones 5 years old and younger will have big fun jumping, bouncing and crawling the morning away. Urban Air Adventure Park, 3321 Alamo Ave., Cincinnati; 10 a.m.12 p.m.; $10.99 for ages five and younger (taxes/jump socks not included); 513-322-3130 or urbanair. com.

ZOO TROOP – COLD CRITTERS (register)

Brr! It is getting cold this month! Zoo troopers can explore how wildlife survives across the globe during this four-week immersive and interactive program. Zoo troopers will visit the zoo one day a week for four weeks of hiking, animal encounters, games, activities and crafts. Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, 3400 Vine St., Cincinnati; 9:30 a.m.; $75 - 100; 513559-7767 or cincinnatizoo.org.

Encounter all of the “cold critters” at the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden. Photo by Mark Dumont.

wed 4

FREE WINTER WOODLAND: BRINGING THE OUTSIDE IN

Step out of the cold and warm up by a cozy log fire; families can make crafts and enjoy a winter woodland scene in the Ellenwood Nature Barn. Farbach-Werner Nature Preserve, 3455 Poole Road, Cincinnati; 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.; valid vehicle permit required for park entry; 513-521-7275 or greatparks. org.

thu 5

DISCOVERY ON THE FARM: SNOW TAILS

Winter is snow much fun! Head to the park to explore all things snow with a scavenger hunt, “snowball” game, a craft and even making snow. Families will enjoy a snack and meet farm friends, too. Chrisholm MetroPark Historic Farmstead, 2070 Woodsdale Road, Trenton; 10 - 11 a.m.; $5 per household with up to two children, $1 additional child from the same household; 513-867-5835 or yourmetroparks.net.

THURSDAY ART PLAY: FLOAT ON

Will it sink? Will it float? Experiment with items to discover their buoyancy all while learning about the Creativity Center work, Buoyant. Stick around for some kid-friendly yoga after Art Play. Contemporary Arts Center, 44 East 6th St., Cincinnati; 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.; $5 per non-member child; free for members; 513-345-8400 or contemporaryartscenter.org.

fri 6

FULL MOON WALK (register)

Hit the trails at night and enjoy the full moon, natural history moments and special readings. January’s sky will feature a Wolf Moon! Recommended for adults and children 12 and older. Cincinnati

Nature Center, 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford; 7:30 - 9 p.m.; $13 nonmembers, includes daily admission; $7 members; 513-831-1711 or cincynature.org.

NKU BASKETBALL HOME GAME

Head to Truist Arena to cheer on the Norse during an NKU men’s basketball home game. Truist

Arena, 500 Louie B Nunn Drive, Newport; 7 p.m.; see website for ticket information; 859-442-2652 or nkunorse.com.

SCHOOL DAY PLAY AT URBAN AIR

Homeschoolers can climb, jump, zip and slide at Urban Air during these monthly play days! Urban Air Adventure Park, 3321 Alamo Ave., Cincinnati; 12 - 3 p.m.; $17.49 pp + tax/socks; 513-322-3130 or urbanairtrampolinepark.com/ locations/ohio/cincinnati.

FREE STORIES BY THE FIRESIDE

Little ones can enjoy big winter fun through stories, songs and awesome activities with friends! Farbach-Werner Nature Preserve, 3455 Poole Road, Cincinnati; 10:30 a.m.; valid vehicle permit required for park entry; 513-923-3665 or greatparks.org.

sat 7

FREE CAM KIDS DAY

Creative kids and their families can enjoy a day of art-making activities, performances and a fun scavenger hunt! The January event theme is “Winter Wonderland.” Families are welcomed to step out of the cold and into the warm and wonderful art museum. There will be a scavenger hunt and activity stations located throughout the museum. The Price Hill Duo will be performing in the Great Hall at 1:30 p.m. Cincinnati Art Museum, 953 Eden Park Drive, Cincinnati;

11 a.m. - 3 p.m.; 513-721-2787 or cincinnatiartmuseum.org.

CINCINNATI CYCLONES HOME GAME

Head to Heritage Bank Center for an exciting Cincinnati Cyclones home game. It is the popular “Throwback Night” so get ready to toss those teddies! Bring new or gently loved stuffed animals to throw on the ice after the Cyclones first goal. All stuffed animals will be given to the Cincinnati Police Department. Heritage Bank Center, 100 Broadway, Cincinnati; 7:30 p.m.; $23 preferred day-of ($21 advanced); $35 front row day-of ($33 advanced); 513-421-4111 or cycloneshockey.com.

EARS ARE FOR READING

Little ones can practice their reading skills to a farm animal in this stressfree, non-judgmental and FUN environment. Children can bring a favorite book from home or choose one from the park’s little library. Whether young readers choose a furry or feathery friend to read to, this early reader program will be one to remember. Chrisholm MetroPark Historic Farmstead, 2070 Woodsdale Road, Trenton; 11 a.m.; $5 for up to two readers (same time, from the same family); 513867-5835 or yourmetroparks.net.

sun 8

NKU BASKETBALL GAME

Head to Truist Arena to cheer on the Norse during an NKU men’s basketball home game. Truist

Arena, 500 Louie B Nunn Drive, Newport; 2 p.m.; see website for ticket information; 859-442-2652 or nkunorse.com.

UC BEARCATS BASKETBALL HOME GAME

Cheer Cincinnati, Cincy will win! Fight to the finish, never give in. Head to Fifth Third Arena to cheer on the Bearcats men’s basketball team during an exciting home game. Fifth Third Arena, 2700 Bearcat Way, Cincinnati; 3 p.m.; see website for ticket pricing; 513-5562287 or gobearcats.com.

mon 9

FREE GET ARTISTIC WITH MS. MELINDA

Join Ms. Melinda to get artistic! Each month, there will be a new craft theme for kids to enjoy. Support provided by the Wyoming Fine Arts Center and ArtsWave. Elmwood Place, 6120 Vine St., Cincinnati; 4 - 5 p.m.; 513-369-4452 or chpl.org.

MUSIC MONDAY AT HAPPY HANGOUTS

Monday means music to your child’s ears. Come explore Happy Hangout’s collection of instruments, giant indoor playscape, the cool kid’s city and more. Happy Hangout Westside, 2041 Anderson Ferry Road, Cincinnati; 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.; included with playpass; 513-4581470 or happyhangoutws.com.

It’s “Throwback Night” on Jan. 6 with the Cincinnati Cyclones.

SUPER SPROUTS: SWIRLING SNOWFLAKES

Head to the Children’s Museum’s KIDSPACE to make a fun, preschool-friendly art project featuring swirling snowflakes. Cincinnati Museum Center, 1301 Western Ave., Cincinnati; 10:30 a.m.; included with daily admission, $17.50 adults, $13.50 for ages 312; free for members; 513-287-7000 or cincymuseum.org.

tue 10

WILD SENSES

Venture to Rowe Woods Visitor Center to discover senses and feed the center’s resident non-venomous snake. Cincinnati Nature Center, Rowe Woods, 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford; 11 a.m.; included with daily admission, $10 adults, $6 children; free for members; 513-831-1711 or cincynature.org.

wed 11

CINCINNATI CYCLONES HOME GAME

Head to Heritage Bank Center for a Cincinnati Cyclones home game T-shirt giveaway. Need a new shirt for the new year? Be one of the first 2,000 fans into Heritage Bank Center to receive a free Cyclones T-shirt. Heritage Bank Center, 100 Broadway, Cincinnati; 7:30 p.m.; $23 preferred day-of ($21 advanced); $35 front row day-of ($33 advanced); 513-421-4111 or cycloneshockey.com.

NATURE IN WINTER STORY TIME

Ages 4 and younger can visit the Rowe Visitor Center’s Whittaker Library to “chill” with new friends, enjoy a winter-themed story time and make a simple craft. Cincinnati Nature Center, 4949 Tealtown Road, Cincinnati; 10:30 - 11 a.m.; included with daily admission ($10 adult, $6 children); free for members; 513831-1711 or cincynature.org.

UC BEARCATS BASKETBALL HOME GAME

Cheer Cincinnati, Cincy will win! Fight to the finish, never give in. Head to Fifth Third Arena to cheer on the Bearcats men’s basketball team during an exciting home game. Fifth Third Arena, 2700 Bearcat Way, Cincinnati; 9 p.m.; see website for ticket pricing; 513-5562287 or gobearcats.com.

thu 12

DISCOVERY ON THE FARM: WINTER PAJAMA AND MITTEN PARTY

Wear PJs and mittens to celebrate winter with fun activities, takehome crafts and by meeting live animals. A snack will be provided. Chrisholm MetroPark Historic Farmstead, 2070 Woodsdale Road, Trenton; 10 - 11 a.m.; $5 per household with up to two children, $1 additional child from the same household; 513-867-5835 or yourmetroparks.net.

THURSDAY ART PLAY: GAME ON

Learn about the Creativity Center work, Soft Bones, and work together with friends to design a giant maze! Stick around for some kid-friendly yoga following Art Play. Contemporary Arts Center, 44 East 6th St., Cincinnati; 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.; $5 per non-member child; free for members; 513-345-8400 or contemporaryartscenter.org.

fri 13

CINCINNATI CYCLONES HOME GAME

Head to Heritage Bank Center for an exciting Cincinnati Cyclones home game. Dragonfly Foundation Night: Help raise awareness and funds for the Dragonfly Foundation. Specialty jerseys will be auctioned off after the game. Heritage Bank Center, 100 Broadway, Cincinnati;

7:30 p.m.; $23 preferred day-of ($21 advanced); $35 front row day-of ($33 advanced); 513-421-4111 or cycloneshockey.com.

NATIONAL FISHING EXPO

Get ready for a “reely” fun fishing convention; there will be vendor booths, autographs with anglers, seminars, a kids zone and more. Sharonville Convention Center, 11355 Chester Road, Cincinnati; Fri Jan.13: 12 - 7 p.m., Sat Jan.14: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., Sun Jan.15: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.; tickets starting at $12; two free children admitted (ages 2 - 17) with each paid adult; nationalfishingexpos.com/cincinnati/ about.

sat 14

FREE CREATIVE REUSE

One person’s trash is an artist’s new treasure; head to the Rosenthal Education Center for an art-making project using reclaimed materials with Indigo Hippo! Cincinnati Art Museum, 953 Eden Park Drive, Cincinnati; 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.; 513-7212787 or cincinnatiartmuseum.org/ events-programs/events-list.

GARDEN ADVENTURES: WINTER CREATURES (register)

Sip hot cocoa and learn all about what animals do during winter. Participants will meet animal ambassadors, make a winter creature craft and discover why animals act differently during winter. Glenwood Gardens Highfield Discovery Garden, 10397 Springfield

cincinnatifamilymagazine.com

Pike, Cincinnati; 10:45 a.m. - 12 p.m.; $9 child non-member, $3 adult non-member, $7 child memberincludes one adult caregiver with child + valid vehicle permit required for park entry; 513-771-8733 or greatparks.org.

MAPLE TREE TAPPING DAY (register)

During Maple Tree Tapping Day, families will head into the sugarbush with a maple guide to identify trees, drill holes, set taps and hang sap buckets. After all that hard work, warm up by a fire and sip hot cocoa as a reward.

Cincinnati Nature Center, 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford; 2 p.m.; $13 non-members (includes daily admission), $7 members; most appropriate for adults or interested youth 8 and older with a caretaker; 513-831-1711 or cincynature.org.

FREE WINTER WOODLAND: MUSIC IN THE BARN

Warm up by a fire, listen to live music from the Cincinnati Dulcimer Society and explore the wonders of nature with a visit to the Winter Woodland exhibit. Farbach-Werner Nature Preserve, 3455 Poole Road, Cincinnati; 2 - 4 p.m.; valid vehicle permit required for park entry; 513521-7275 or greatparks.org/calendar.

mon 16

ZOO PLAY DATE (register)

Play is just as important to kids as it is to the animals at the zoo! Campers will learn the importance

Preschoolers can enjoy a snow art project during Super Sprouts on the 9th.

of play while creating special enrichment items to keep the zoo’s animals happy and healthy.

Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, 3400 Vine St., Cincinnati; 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.; $75 non-members, $60 members; 513-559-7730 or cincinnatizoo.org/education/kidsfamilies/zoo-camp.

thu 19

DISCOVERY ON THE FARM: NAPPERS, SNACKERS AND MOVERS

Enjoy napping during the winter months, like a groundhog? Get hungry when it is chilly out, like a skunk? During this program, families can discover how animals adapt to survive, tolerate and hibernate during the winter months. Chrisholm MetroPark Historic Farmstead, 2070 Woodsdale Road, Trenton; 10 - 11 a.m.; $5 per household with up to two children, $1 additional child from the same household; 513-8675835 or yourmetroparks.net.

NKU BASKETBALL HOME GAME (See Fri 6).

fri 20

CINCINNATI BOAT, SPORT & TRAVEL SHOW

From travel destinations, boating, hunting and fishing, help plan your families next outdoor adventure all under one roof! Jan. 20 - 22, 25 - 29, see website for hours and pricing; Duke Energy Convention Center, 525 Elm St., Cincinnati; 765-641-7712 or cincinnatiboatsportandtravelshow. com.

THE SECRET LIFE OF STARS

Twinkle, twinkle, little star! Ages 5 and older will learn all about big stars, little stars, stars that eat their neighbors and stars that go out with a bang. Wolff Planetarium at Burnet Woods, 3251 Brookline Ave., Cincinnati; 7 - 8 p.m.; $5 per person; 513-751-3679 or cincinnatiparks.com.

sat 21

ARTIST WORKSHOP: DANCE MASKS (register)

Join the CAM for this workshop led by a local artist; children will learn about techniques and materials

used during this fun, educational and hands-on workshop. Cincinnati Art Museum, 953 Eden Park Drive, Cincinnati; 1 - 3 p.m.; $12 general admission, $6 Art Museum members; 513-721-2787 or cincinnatiartmuseum.org.

MAPLE SYRUP MAKING AND GUIDED SAP COLLECTING HIKES IN THE SUGARBUSH (register)

Families, head to Cincinnati Nature Center to experience the whole process of producing liquid gold from maple sap. Cincinnati Nature Center, 4949 Tealtown Road, Cincinnati; 10 a.m.; included with park admission $10 adult, $6 children; free for members; 513831-1711 or cincynature.org/eventsand-programs.

NKU BASKETBALL HOME GAME

Head to Truist Arena to cheer on the Norse during an NKU men’s basketball home game. Truist Arena, 500 Louie B Nunn Drive, Newport; 6 p.m.; see website for ticket information; 859-442-2652 or nkunorse.com.

FREE WCCNS OPEN HOUSE

Families are welcome to visit the WCCNS Open House to experience everything this place of learning has to offer. West Chester Cooperative Nursery School, 9463 Cincinnati Columbus Road, West Chester; 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.; 513-7795827 or wccns.net.

sun 22

FREE CHAMBER MUSIC SERIES (register)

Head to the Taft Museum of Art to join the Cincinnati Chamber Orchestra to celebrate a new season of the arts with the Cincinnati Chamber Orchestra. Taft Museum of Art, 316 Pike St., Cincinnati; 2:30 - 3:30 p.m.; free program, reservations required; museum and special exhibition admission sold separately; 513-2410343 or taftmuseum.org.

UC BEARCATS BASKETBALL HOME GAME

Cheer Cincinnati, Cincy will win! Fight to the finish, never give in. Head to Fifth Third Arena to cheer on the Bearcats men’s basketball team during an exciting home game. Fifth Third Arena, 2700 Bearcat Way, Cincinnati; 1 p.m.; see website for ticket pricing; 513-5562287 or gobearcats.com.

mon 23

SUPER SPROUTS: ROCK AND ROLL ART

Head to the Children’s Museum’s KIDSPACE for a fun super sprout program featuring rock and roll art. Cincinnati Museum Center, 1301 Western Ave., Cincinnati; 10:30 a.m.; included with daily admission, $17.50 adults, $13.50 for ages 3 - 12; free for members; 513-2877000 or cincymuseum.org.

wed 25

CINCINNATI CYCLONES HOME GAME

Head to Heritage Bank Center for an exciting Cincinnati Cyclones home game. Heritage Bank Center, 100 Broadway, Cincinnati; 7:30 p.m.; $23 preferred day-of ($21 advanced); $35 front row day-of ($33 advanced); 513-421-4111 or cycloneshockey.com.

KIDS ADVENTURE

CHALLENGE: WINTER WORLD (register)

Bundle up and get ready to face unique winter-themed challenges through fun activities with friends. Glenwood Gardens, 10397 Springfield Pike, Cincinnati; 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.; $8 per child + valid vehicle permit required for park entry; 513-771-8733 or greatparks. org.

thu 26

DISCOVERY ON THE FARM: BRR IT’S COLD AS ICE

Ever heard of an ice farmer? Meet a first-person character from the 1800s who will share stories about collecting ice from a local pond. Chrisholm MetroPark Historic Farmstead, 2070 Woodsdale Road, Trenton; 10 - 11 a.m.; $5 per household with up to two children, $1 additional child from the same household; 513-867-5835 or yourmetroparks.net.

Maple syrup making is what’s it’s all about at the Cincinnati Nature Center beginning Saturday, Jan. 21.

NKU BASKETBALL HOME GAME

Head to Truist Arena to cheer on the Norse during an NKU men’s basketball home game. Truist Arena, 500 Louie B Nunn Drive, Newport; 7 p.m.; see website for ticket information; 859-442-2652 or nkunorse.com.

THURSDAY ART PLAY: THE NATURE OF IT

Explore the complex relationship that humans have with nature by creating natural self-portraits and more! Stick around for some kidfriendly yoga after the program. Contemporary Arts Center, 44 East 6th St., Cincinnati; 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.; $5 per non-member child; free for members; 513-345-8400 or contemporaryartscenter.org.

fri 27

CINCINNATI CYCLONES HOME GAME

Head to Heritage Bank Center for an exciting Cincinnati Cyclones home game. Superhero fans assemble! It is Marvel Super Hero Weekend. Head to the rink to meet some fan-favorite Marvel superheroes. Heritage Bank Center, 100 Broadway, Cincinnati; Friday,

Jan. 27 OR Saturday, Jan. 28, 7:30 p.m.; $23 preferred day-of ($21 advanced); $35 front row day-of ($33 advanced); 513-421-4111 or cycloneshockey.com.

FREE LUNCH & LEARN (register)

Discover art and history during a fun lunch and learn event; participants will discover the Queen City’s culture in collaboration with local experts. Taft Museum of Art, 316 Pike St., Cincinnati; 12 - 1 p.m.; free lecture; optional box lunch available; $15 non-members, $10 Taft Members; museum admission sold separately; 513-241-0343 or taftmuseum.org.

sat 28

FREE BACKYARD DIY MAPLE 101 (register)

Learn how to live off the land and make maple syrup this winter. Discover which trees to tap, how to collect and cook the sap into syrup. Caldwell Nature Preserve, 430 West North Bend Road, Cincinnati; 1 - 3 p.m.; 513-761-4313 or cincinnatioh.gov/cincyparks/visit-a-park/ parks-events-calendar/backyard-diymaple-101.

NKU BASKETBALL HOME GAME

Head to Truist Arena to cheer on the Norse during an NKU men’s basketball home game. Truist Arena, 500 Louie B Nunn Drive, Newport; 4 p.m.; see website for ticket information; 859-442-2652 or nkunorse.com.

OWL PROWL (register)

Experience the park at night to learn about native owls; enjoy a fire and hot chocolate, too. Governor Bebb MetroPark, 1979 Bebb Park Lane, Okeana; 6 - 7:30 p.m.; $3 per person; 513-867-5835 or yourmetroparks.net.

FREE SENSORY SATURDAY

Experience a less crowded visit to the Cincinnati Art Museum during this accessibility program. Children can borrow a bag with hands-on materials and investigate learning centers. For social narratives and more information about accessibility, visit cincinnatiartmuseum.org/ visit; please contact access@ cincyart.org with any questions or concerns. Cincinnati Art Museum, 953 Eden Park Drive, Cincinnati; 9:30 - 11:30 a.m.; 513-721-2787 or cincinnatiartmuseum.org.

YUN: CHINA BEFORE COMMUNISM

Embark on a theatrical journey featuring alloriginal orchestral work and lavish backdrops; audiences can explore 5,000 years of traditional Chinese culture and heritage through stories, dance and music. Aronoff Center, 650 Walnut St., Cincinnati; today at and 7:30 p.m..; Jan. 29 at 2 p.m.; tickets starting at $84.25; 513621-2787 or cincinnatiarts.org.

SIGN CRAFTING SATURDAY

Kids can explore the skills needed to become an expert sign-maker while playing with different materials and learning about different elements of sign making! American Sign Museum, 1 - 3 p.m.; included with admission: $15 adult, $10 youth 13 -18, three children (12 and younger) free with each paid adult; 513-541-6366 or americansignmuseum.org.

SINGIN’ IN THE RAIN

Head to the Carnegie to see the “Greatest Movie Musical of All Time” as it hits the stage with its popular tunes and beloved characters. The Carnegie, 1028 Scott St., Covington; 7:30 p.m. additional showtimes available, see website for details; tickets starting at $15; thecarnegie.com.

sun 29

TOOLS OF THE SUGAR HOUSE (register)

A behind-the-scenes tour to investigate the maple syrup evaporator and more. Cincinnati Nature Center, 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford; 11 a.m. - 12 p.m.; $11 nonmembers, includes daily admission’ $5 members; 513-831-1711 or cincynature.org.

SHEN

Shen Yun’s new show explores Chinese culture through stories, dance and music on Jan. 28 and 29.

Rebecca A. Dandoy, MD

Kenton A. Pate, MD

James M. Komer, MD

Diana E. Small, MD Jennifer Thornicroft, FNP