Southwest Ohio Parent October 2023

ENRICHMENT OPTIONS

13

Taking Control of Your Breast Health

Tips for maintaining good breast health and helping to reduce your risk.

16

Beyond ABC and 123: Enrichment Options for Preschoolers

Extracurriculars for young kids offer fun ways for littles to learn and grow.

22 30

SW Ohio Parent's 2023 Fall Fun Guide

Fall in love with Ohio this autumn.

Side Hustles for Busy Parents

Parents share how they created successful streams of extra income.

Celebrations, Surprises & Challenges

Surprise! You're hearing from me this month instead of our wonderful editor, Nicole. I decided to include my voice here because October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and I had a personal scare with it this past summer.

On page 13 of this issue is an article on the importance of self-exams and regular health screenings. I went in for my regular mammogram screening on May 10, 2023. A few days later, I was asked to come back for an ultrasound. A week later, it was discovered that there was definitely something there, and I needed to have a biopsy. Then, I got the dreaded phone call: they found cancer cells. My heart stopped, the tears flowed, and I was scared of the uncertainty facing me.

Walking into the Cancer Center for my first appointment was one of the loneliest and scariest moments of my life. I walked in to face dozens of patients who were going through their battles with cancer and thought to myself, “I am one of them now.” I told my husband that I could barely breathe — my heart was pounding a million beats a minute. When they finally called my name, I hesitantly followed the nurse down a long hall to find out my fate. After meeting with my doctor, I felt relieved that my small lump was the size of a pea and she was confident that it would be an easy road to recovery.

On July 11, I had a lumpectomy. Everything went smoothly and I was home within hours to recuperate. After a few weeks, I was allowed to return to normal activities, and soon, I made it back to one of my favorite places: the pickleball court.

I am blessed to have so many loving and caring people around me who were with me every step of the way. I am also grateful that I am on top of my annual mammograms. If I hadn't gone in for this routine appointment, I would be in such a different predicament. My message to all of you is to get your baseline by the time you turn 40, and be vigilant about your annual screenings.

This month is full of fall fun and now that I'm fully recovered, I plan to enjoy many of the great activities and festivals. On page 22, you will find our Fall Fun Guide which highlights many of the fun events taking place in Southwest Ohio this month. As your publisher of many years, I wish each of you good health and happiness.

PUBLISHER

Mary Wynne Cox mary@ohparent.com

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER + ADVERTISING

Katie Clark katie@ohparent.com

EDITOR Nicole Sipe nicolesipe@ohparent.com

PRODUCTION MANAGER Becca Reynolds becca@ohparent.com

DIGITAL PUBLISHER

Wendy Hasser wendy@ohparent.com

DIGITAL EDITOR + DISTRIBUTION

Rebecca Matteson rebecca@ohparent.com

ADMINISTRATION

Emily Kirchmann emily@ohparent.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Pam Freeman, Michelle Mastro, Steffy McCourt, Jennifer Thompson

BILLING billing@ohparent.com

CALENDAR OF EVENTS calendar@ohparent.com

say cheese! Local kids

WE LOVE SEEING YOUR PHOTOS OF LOCAL KIDS LIVING THEIR BEST LIVES! HERE ARE SOME OF OUR FAVORITE SUBMISSIONS WE RECEIVED THIS MONTH.

Want to see your cute kids on this page?

We're looking for photos of cute kids for the November issue of SW Ohio Parent! Email your photos (with the first name and age of the child) to editor@ohparent.com, and your photos might appear here!

Noelle (3)

Jocelyn (5)

Olivia (4.5)

Addie (2) and Jonah (5)

Nora (8) and Teddy (5)

Jaxon (7) and Ava (5)

Maxwell (10 mos) and Alexander (5)

Gavin (4)

Bennett (7)

WORDS BY REBECCA MATTESON

School’s Out Camp at Kids First Too

School is back in session! But, with fall break and teacher in-service days, the kids need somewhere fun to go on those days off. Kids First Too offers “School’s Out, Camp’s In” single day camps with daily activities for kids like gymnastics, ninja, arts & crafts, outdoor play, games, and playtime inside Recreations Outlet.

In October and November, Kids First Too offers six day camps including Fall Break. Kids can expect to make themed crafts, friendship bracelets, create with kinetic sand, play gaga or basketball, dodgeball, capture the flag, run the ninja course and more. Daily hours are from 8:45 a.m.- 4:15 p.m. with before and after care offered for an additional fee. Siblings receive a 20% discount with registration open now.

Kids First Too has kids and parents in mind when planning their epic day camps and events. Parent’s Night Out is held once a month on Friday evenings from 6 p.m.- 9 p.m. to give adults a night out while their kids have a blast with friends. At Parent’s Night Out, kids will have

three hours of gym time, pizza, drink, snack and a craft. October’s PNO will be extra exciting with a Halloween costume party on Friday, October 27th.

Kids First Too has awesome programs if your child enjoyed School’s Out Camp or Parent’s Night Out. The new ninja course is popular, as ‘Fly Kids' develop strength skills in swinging, climbing, balancing, and healthy competition with other ninjas. Recreational and competitive gymnastic programs at Kids First Too teach children the fundamentals of gymnastics and beyond with learning independence, problem solving, decision making, persistence and positive self esteem.

Located inside Recreations Outlet in Milford, consider Kids First Too for your next birthday party, athletic classes, summer camps, single day camps, Parents Night Out and more.

885 State Route 28, Milford kidsfirsttoo.com

Source: pizzatoday.com

™ ™ Barbie You Can Be Anything : The Experience

From career dolls to real-world role models, Barbie has been inspiring children since 1959 — and she isn't done yet! Now is your chance to celebrate 60 years of Barbie with Barbie™ You Can Be Anything™: The Experience, opening at COSI on October 4.

This exhibit showcases the iconic Barbie doll and encourages the kind of imaginative play that teaches us that we can all make the world a better place by doing work that excites us, challenges us, and brings us fulfillment. View various Barbie dolls through history and the stories behind them, explore 11 different careers and learn about the more than 200 careers Barbie has had over the years, learn from powerful women throughout history who have broken down career barriers for women, and much more.

Barbie™ You Can Be Anything™: The Experience is included with general admission to COSI. Learn more at cosi.org/exhibits/barbie

Explore the Outdoors at the Wagner Subaru Outdoor Experience

Connect to nature on October 7 and 8 at the Wagner Subaru Outdoor Experience, happening at Eastwood MetroPark in Dayton. Presented by Huffy and produced by Five Rivers MetroParks, this is your chance to camp, compete and experience dozens of outdoor activities during a two-day event that celebrates the outdoors and all of the adventures available in the Midwest. Enjoy food, music and workshops, plus a plethora of opportunities to bike, slackline, climb and get out on the water. This is a great event to try out an activity for the first time or sign up for a competition. There is something for everyone... even the dog!

Find out more about the Wagner Subaru Outdoor Experience at outdoorx.metroparks.org

WORDS BY REBECCA MATTESON

Troll Pub

Fall is here, which means bring on all the hearty, filling food. Troll Pub is just that — a warm, inviting brick-exposed gastropub with a yummy menu of pot roast poutine, Philly cheesesteaks, ruebens, Kentucky Hot Brown and all the kid basics. Kids will especially love the silly giant trolls that welcome you into Troll Pub at the Wheelhouse.

Part of the Oregon District in downtown Dayton, Troll Pub is located in the original Wuesthoff & Getz Factory. The gorgeous features inside the building reflect that of 1868 when the factory was built. Tall red brick walls, dark wooden rafters and rustic wood accents throughout provide a cozy lunch or dinner. In 2017, Troll Pub at the Wheelhouse made its debut with repurposed wood table tops taken from the ceiling and custom chandeliers made of old wagon wheels.

The menu has a little bit of everything, making it a perfect spot for the entire family. Kids will love the trollthemed menu of cheeseburgers, grilled cheese, chicken tenders, wings, and pasta. For parents, Louie the Troll’s Signature Beer Cheese with Shiner Bock and Sierra Nevada Pale Ale is a must, whether on top of loaded fries or with warm soft pretzel sticks. Chicken wings, burgers, salads, chili, and a wide variety of sandwiches like fried chicken and waffle, fleur de lis dip, fried fish, buffalo chicken and more fill the rest of the menu.

For adults who may want to make a solo trip to Troll Pub, fun treats like boozy cheesecake and hard root beer floats are one-of-a-kind. Troll’s Drunken Cheesecake is served with a shot of Mellow Corn Bourbon or skip the liquor and divulge in a huge Mokah Stout Brownie served warm with chocolate ganache and vanilla ice cream. With a beautiful outdoor patio at the restored factory, Troll Pub is a fun, delicious place to celebrate fall with family and friends.

216 Wayne Ave., Dayton trollpub.com

WORDS BY STEFFY MCCOURT

TAKING CONTROL OF YOUR BREAST HEALTH

Tips for maintaining

There's an old proverb that remains relevant today: Prevention is better than cure. When it comes to breast health, this couldn’t be more true. Breast cancer prevention — or catching it in the early stages — hinges largely on proactive measures, including breast self-exams, yearly mammograms and an awareness of one’s body.

According to statistics from the National Cancer Institute, 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer during their lifetime.

When breast cancer is detected early (for instance, when it is in the localized stage), the five-year survival rate is almost 100%.

good breast health and helping to reduce your risk.

That’s why it’s important to take the time to learn the facts and take charge of your breast health.

Here are just a few of the tools you can use and measures you can take to reduce your risk of breast cancer, and detect any potential problems early on.

BREAST SELF-EXAMS: THE FIRST LINE OF DEFENSE

While many medical procedures require appointments, specialized tools and sometimes even medical insurance, the breast self-exam is relatively easy, personal, simple and free.

This hands-on approach encourages women to become familiar with how their breasts feel. While it might feel funny at first, if you are not used to self-exams, intentionally feeling your breasts is the best way to get to know them. Knowing your breasts well enables you to detect any unusual changes, lumps or abnormalities.

Though breast self-exams are not a substitute for mammograms, they act as a crucial initial step. The Mayo Clinic encourages women to ask their doctors for a demonstration on how best and when best to conduct self-exams. If you detect anything unusual, be safe and contact your doctor.

MAMMOGRAMS: THE PROACTIVE RADIOGRAPH

The mammogram — or an X-ray of the breast — is an essential tool in the breast health toolkit. Yearly mammograms can detect tumors that are too small to be felt and can identify cancers before symptoms develop, making it easier to treat.

Mary Cox, the publisher of Indy’s Child and Southwest Ohio Parent , was one of the lucky ones. Her mammogram revealed a tiny lump — the size of a grain of rice. It was cancerous.

However, in just a few short months, the cancer was removed, and she was given the all-clear. Cox is grateful that she went to her yearly mammogram on time, so that they were able to catch it early.

There's a cloud of myths surrounding mammograms, with fears about radiation exposure or discomfort. But modern mammography uses low radiation doses, and while there might be slight discomfort, it's very brief. The benefits of early detection far outweigh these concerns.

BEYOND SELF-EXAMS AND MAMMOGRAMS

A lesser-known tool — comprehensive breast health awareness — encompasses a wider spectrum than self-exams and mammograms.

Clinical Breast Exams: Performed by healthcare professionals. These exams are a more thorough manual check and can often detect abnormalities missed during self-exams.

Genetic Testing: For those with a strong family history of breast cancer, genetic tests like the BRCA1 and BRCA2 can provide insights into potential inherited risks.

Breast MRI: Generally reserved for those at high risk, this imaging method offers a more detailed picture than mammograms, particularly beneficial for women with dense breast tissue.

A HOLISTIC APPROACH: LIFESTYLE AND AWARENESS

Examinations and screenings are essential for breast health, but

those shouldn’t be the only tools in your breast-health arsenal.

As part of your preventive care, it helps to make informed lifestyle choices. Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, a sedentary lifestyle, and obesity are some known risk enhancers. On the flip side, eating well, exercising regularly and visiting the doctor yearly are all proactive ways to take care of your health.

A PERSONAL INVESTMENT

Breast health is a deeply personal commitment. Cox explained how traumatic it was to walk into the breast cancer medical office for the very first time. She saw women at every stage of their breast cancer journey. She felt herself break down.

She didn’t want to be there. She didn’t want to be sick. And because Cox was proactive about her breast health, doesn’t have to visit that medical office anymore.

Using these tools to take care of your health is a statement of empowerment. It’s a declaration of power and an embrace of agency over one's own body. Through regular self-exams, mammograms, and a commitment to understanding and advocating for one's health, women everywhere can create a shield against breast cancer.

In this collective effort, every self-exam performed, every mammogram taken, and every story shared adds up to a tapestry of prevention and hope.

From music to movement, swimming to art, and so much more — there are lots of enrichment programs available for preschoolers. There are so many options that it can be hard to know where to begin. The good news is that at this age, you can’t really go wrong. Give something a try, and if it’s not a good fit, that’s OK. Pick another one and try again!

WORDS BY JENNIFER THOMPSON

Beyond ABC and 123: ENRICHMENT OPTIONS FOR PRESCHOOLERS

EXTRACURRICULARS FOR YOUNG KIDS OFFER FUN WAYS FOR LITTLES TO LEARN AND GROW.

TODDLERS & KIDS UNDER 5

This is a unique time of exploration and development in your child’s life that can have lifelong benefits. Take a swimming program, for example. Not only will your child have fun splashing in the water (hopefully), but they will also learn a potentially lifesaving skill that they can enjoy for years to come.

There are also exceptional music programs available for children in this age group, such as Kindermusik. In many music classes, your child will sing, be introduced to different instruments, and also have an opportunity to move their body. If your child enjoys art, look into programs at art studios around town.

Many preschoolers will begin taking dance lessons or gymnastics, and discover a passion that they carry with them for years — possibly into high school or beyond. And let’s not forget the one-time classes that are often offered at libraries, museums, and parks departments, such as story time, nature walks, themed craft experiences, educational opportunities and more.

SEARCHING FOR A PRESCHOOL PROGRAM

With nap times, schedules, work and life in general to consider, it can feel overwhelming to know where to start searching for a preschool enrichment program. As you begin your search, some things to consider are time, location, convenience, cost and what you are hoping your child will gain from this program.

You will want a program that works with your child’s schedule as well as the rest of your family’s schedule. A good way to start to narrow down your search is to know what time slot you are looking for and how far away the program is from home.

Another thing to consider is the duration and cost of the program. Some programs, like those offered at the library, may be one-time with no fee, while a swim class may be more of a lengthy, and expensive, commitment.

If teaching your child to swim is a goal right now, that may supersede some of the other activities. Or if your focus is to get your child to try something new and socialize with peers, then a group class focused on movement and play might be

more of what you are looking for. Remember, you can always mix and match, too.

THE IMPORTANCE OF ENRICHMENT FOR YOUNG CHILDREN

A child’s brain develops quickly. By age 3, the average child’s brain has reached about 75% of its adult weight, and by age 5, that goes up to 90%. Children take in the world around them and are at a unique time in life when they can learn a great deal. This is one of the many reasons enrichment programs are so beneficial for children this age — not only are they fun, but they are introducing kids to skills they can use for life.

The great thing about enrichment programs at this age is that you can try a lot of different things and start to see what your child might be drawn to. The time commitment for preschool programs usually is not too long. And if you are unsure about where to start or if the program will be a good fit, many places offer a trial class so you can see if your preschooler has interest before commiting to the entire class. Enrichment programs are also a great way for your child to begin to learn how to follow directions from other adults, and learn what it’s like to be in a classroom type setting before venturing off to preschool or kindergarten.

This is an exciting time in your child’s life and there are so many options to explore. Overall, enrichment programs offer your child a chance to try something new, socialize with peers, learn more about what their interests may be, and develop skills that they will carry with them for years to come.

Local Spotlight: Sharonville Cultural Arts Center

A home for visual and performing arts in southwest Ohio, the Sharonville Cultural Arts Center has been operating in the community for more than a decade. Southwest Ohio Parent sat down with Michelle Taylor, executive director for the Sharonville Cultural Arts Center, to learn about the history and offerings of this non-profit creative hub.

With over a decade in operation, how has the Center been received in the community?

From our volunteer board of Sharonville business owners and program parents, to our local vendors and patrons, we love being a part of the Sharonville community. Yet it still surprises me how many folks visit us and say, “I had no idea this was here!” We have regulars on both the visual and performing arts sides that make this place feel like home, but we’re always excited to show newcomers who we are.

What theater programs do you offer for the community?

Our theater programs are produced by Performing Arts Inc (PAI). We are one of several of their venues in the Greater Cincinnati area, and they work with people ages 4 and older. We host PAI productions on an ongoing rotation, with each age group (including adult and family troupes) performing roughly four times per year. Sharonville Center Stage is our new adult troupe,

which started with parents of our young performers who decided they wanted to play, too! They completed their inaugural season over the summer, and we’re thrilled to see new faces in every production. Audition notices and signups for all age groups, including Sharonville Center Stage, can be found at PAI’s website: performingartsinc.net.

You have artist competitions and exhibits. Tell us how artists can get involved.

The Westheimer Gallery offers solo and group exhibitions monthly from February to June and August to October, typically opening on the first Friday of the month. For several years, we’ve partnered with Princeton High School on a student exhibition in one of those spots, and each November, we present Art North, our juried competition which

draws artists in all forms of visual art from across the tri-state. Artists interested in showing with us can visit our website to submit exhibit request forms, which are reviewed by a committee at the end of each summer to select the following year’s season.

What events do you have coming up this fall and winter?

Sharonville Center Stage begins its second season with The Wedding Singer through October 1, followed by an interactive Murder Mystery October 20-21. Art North 2023 opens Friday, November 3 with an opening reception and awards ceremony, and we have many children’s programs left this year, including Elf Jr December 8-9.

How can people get involved with the Cultural Arts Center?

We are always looking for volunteers, from gallery and box office attendants to assistance with maintaining our historic building. Please visit us at sharonvilleculturalarts.org or e-mail sharonvillecac@gmail. com if you’re interested in lending a hand. To keep up with our events, follow on Facebook (Sharonville Cultural Arts Center) and Instagram (@ scac_ohio), and sign up for our email newsletter on our website.

This hidden gem non-profit provides opportunities for the community to get creative.

WORDS BY PAM FREEMAN

SW OHIO PARENT'S 2023

FALL FUN GUIDE

Blooms & Berries Farm Market

Voted “Best Pumpkin Farm” by CityBeat, Fall on the Farm is an amazing family destination! With paid admission, each guest is welcome to the 40 animal petting farm, unlimited hay rides the pumpkin bounce pad, Bee Train rides, treks through a 5-acre corn maze, races around the Barnyard 500 trike track, and more! Stop in the bakery for tasty treats available for purchase and Farmer Frank’s Hot Dog Stand offers a quick lunch. Browse the Market Barn and Garden Center for unique finds, fun gifts, and fall color. The Beer Garden returns Fridays - Sundays! Fall On The Farm often SELLS OUT, we strongly recommend securing your tickets online in advance. Gate sales cannot be guaranteed and will be an additional $5 on site Saturday and Sunday.

Dates: September 16 October 31, Open Daily

(513) 697-9173 | FallOnTheFarm.com

9669 S. St. Rt. 48, Loveland, OH 45140

Gorman Heritage Farm

Celebrate fall on the Farm at our annual Sunflower Festival this October 7th and 8th! Wander through fields of cut-your-own-sunflowers ($1 per stem), visit education stations, enjoy live music, hop on a hayride or mule carriage ride, and peruse local goods from craft vendors and food trucks at Gorman Heritage Farm. Adults can enjoy a local HighGrain beer while kids will have a blast meeting the friendly farm animals. There’s something for everyone at this local event!

Want to keep the fun going? Special offerings available Saturdays & Sundays 10-3 through October 22nd during our Fall Farm Fun Days!

Dates: September 30 – October 22

(513) 563-6663 | gormanfarm.org

10052 Reading Rd., Evendale, OH 45241

Five Rivers MetroParks

Five Rivers MetroParks manages 18 clean, safe parks, which are free to use and open year-round, in the Dayton area. Enjoy the cooler autumn weather and celebrate the harvest season with seasonal programs, and new vendors at the 2nd Street Market this fall. MetroParks provides programs for families such as Conservation Kids, and many MetroParks include family-friendly amenities, such as nature play areas. Learn more about fall kid-friendly activities in your MetroParks by visiting metroparks.org/outdoor-play

Dates: Open Year-Round

(937) 275-7275 | metroparks.org

Multiple Locations

Burger Farm Fall Festival

Celebrating our 50th Annual Fall Festival! Burger Farm is the perfect place to spend time enjoying a number of Fall family-fun activities where kids and adults can run, jump, climb and play. Weekends only in October. Come out and enjoy unlimited access to our Hayride, Pumpkinland, Straw maze, Puppet show, Peddle cars, Challenge course, Mini zip lines, Giant jumping pillow, Vine climb, Farm animal viewing, Cow train ride, Live music, all included with admission fee. Amusement rides, Carnival games, Face painting, Pony rides, Paintball shoot available for an additional fee.

Dates: Sept. 30 & October 1, 7-8, 14-15, 21-22, 28-29

(513) 561-8634 | burgerfarms.com

7849 Main St., Cincinnati, OH 45244

Waynesville Fall Fest

If you’re looking for a new family tradition, Waynesville Fall Fest has you covered! We’re excited to return this season with more attractions and entertainment than ever before. Get ready for a corn maze, two mini golf courses, gem mining, the Wildwater Mining Company mega playset, carnival games, a petting farm, pedal cars, Water Wars, disc golf, pumpkin painting, S.L. Expeditions adventure trucks, and so much more! Enjoy delicious food and treats and make memories with special events throughout the season. Visit us at waynesvillefallfest.com or on Facebook @waynesvillefallfest.

Dates: Saturdays & Sundays, Sep 16 – Oct 29

(937) 790-0036 | waynesvillefallfest.com

7392 East State Route 73, Waynesville, OH 45068

Your Park After Dark at Chrisholm MetroPark Historic Farmstead

Experience your parks after dark at the Chrisholm MetroPark Historic Farmstead from 7:30-8:30pm. Enjoy the light of the full moon by a campfire, chow down on some smores, listen to stories about the stars and visit with the park's farm animals at nighttime. Cost is $5/person, all ages are welcome. RSVP required at online or by phone.

Date: Friday, October 27th

(513) 867-5835 | yourmetroparks.net

2051 Timberman Rd., Hamilton, OH 45013

Heritage Village Museum's Haunted Village

Heritage Village Museum will transform into a Haunted Village for a family-friendly, slight-fright event. Our 19th century village inside Sharon Woods is the perfect setting for a spooky October evening! Trick-ortreat through the village meeting ghosts, witches, and a fortune teller along the way. Walk through the haunted woods... if you dare! Enjoy a maze, a creepy critter zoo, balloon art, games, theater, storytelling, and more! $12 per person for advance tickets available through Oct. 6 on our website or $15 per person at the door. Museum members and children ages 2 and under are free.

Dates: October 13-14, 20-21, 27 & 28

(513) 563-9484 | heritagevillagecincinnati.org

11500 Lebanon Road, Sharonville, OH 45241

Brown's Family Farm Market

Fall brings the fun at Brown’s Family Farm Market! Fall Family Fun Weekends are every Saturday and Sunday through October! Affordable family fun activities including Hayrides, pick your own pumpkin patch, barrel train rides, corn maze, farm animals, picnic area, multiple free play areas, photo opportunities and food trucks! At Brown’s, we grow much of our fall décor like corn stalk bundles, Indian corn, squash, gourds, beautiful mums, and of course, pumpkins in all shapes and sizes! Plus a full assortment of home grown apples, sweet cider, caramel apples, Amish Fry Pies, bakery items and more! Open daily 9am-7pm!

Dates: Every weekend through October

(513) 738-0404 | brownsfarmmarket.com

11620 Hamilton Cleves Rd., Hamilton, OH 45013

Jack O' Lantern Junction

Halloween fun for the whole family at EnterTRAINment Junction! Kids can trick-or-treat thru our indoor, kid friendly maze and see friendly ghosts, skeletons and more. Plus, see our new Halloween mini scenes and a Halloween themed train display! Weather permitting the little ones can ride our Halloween themed outdoor train rides. Plus, it’s the perfect place to have a Halloween Party! Don’t worry about the weather, it’s all indoors!

Dates: September 23 – October 31

(513) 898-8000 | entertrainmentjunction.com

7379 Squire Court, West Chester, OH 45069

The Pumpkin Patch Express at LM&M Railroad

Join the LM&M Railroad in a celebration of all things Autumn! Just as the Fall leaves change and blow away, our Pumpkin Patch Express is here for the entire month of October! Order your tickets early to avoid missing out!

During the journey Scarecrow hosts will be making balloon pumpkins for passengers to enjoy as they take in the sights of fall outside. After a 20 minute ride, the train will stop at the Pumpkin Patch (Lebanon Sports Complex) for a layover. At this time, all ticketed passengers will receive a small pie pumpkin. While at the Pumpkin Patch, passengers will enjoy a variety of fall activities.

Upon departing the Pumpkin Patch, you will enjoy the remainder of your train ride before heading back to the Lebanon Station. We hope you can join us on this special event!

Dates: Weekends in October

(513) 933-8022 | lebanonrr.com | 16 E South St., Lebanon, OH 45036

Station Road Farm

Fourth-generation family farm, located in Old West Chester, open daily! It’s a tradition to pick a pumpkin, hundreds to choose from! The farm has, all the décor to decorate your home: Mums, Stalks, Indian Corn, Straw Bales, Gourds & much more! Enjoy our fresh fall apples, cider, local fall produce, Amish foods. Open hayrides in Sat. & Sun. from 12-3:00pm. Call to book private weekend hayrides, events or the campfire areas September 30th – October 29th, weather permitting. Extra weekend activities include play on barnyard playground, feed the chickens and hold the kittens. Amish food tastings, sip on hot chocolate, cider, coffee and tea bar! Station Road Farm has all you need to enjoy fall nearby and stop by the gift shop to see what’s new.

Dates: Open Daily – Check website for hours!

(513) 777-3650 | stationroadfarm.com

6749 Station Road, West Chester, OH 45069

Fall Farm Fun at Burwinkel Farms

Join Burwinkel Farms this fall for some Family Farm Fun! Enjoy a sunflower hayride to our pumpkin patches, corn mazes, and sunflower fields. Explore a punch-card maze, Halloween scavenger hunt, animals, plus much more! Fun for all ages, kids and adults alike! Hayrides run Saturdays and Sundays from 10am-6pm (weather permitting), all other activities are open during normal business hours. Watch our FB page for updates about weekday hayride opportunities. We also welcome scheduled weekday hayride groups of 10+, visit our website for more information. After the fun, shop tons of homegrown pumpkins, gourds, straw, apples, cider, and all other items fall!

Dates: September 28 ̶ October 31

(513) 738-1145 | burwinkelfarms.com

4359 Hamilton Cleves Rd., Hamilton, OH 45013

EDUCATION GUIDE

CHILDCARE & PRESCHOOL

The Campus at Kids First

We have FULL DAY Kindergarten!

Located inside the nationally acclaimed Kids First Sports Center, The Campus offers the premier early learning experience for children ages 6 weeks through Kindergarten. As the only early learning center in the area that makes physical education a top priority, The Campus at Kids First gives your child an academic edge by integrating a world class physical education (including gymnastics, basketball, yoga and soccer!) curriculum in to the daily schedule, at NO additional cost! Our carefully selected and loving teachers utilize a relevancebased curriculum combined with child-directed play to make learning FUN and start each child on their journey to becoming a life-long learner. • 7900 E Kemper Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45249, theCampusKF.com , Phone: (513) 629-KIDS, Email: info@theCampusKF.com

Chai Tots Early Childhood Center

Academic excellence via a unique blend of Jewish and Montessori education offering strong academics, stressing life skills, interpersonal relationship skills and nurturing a love for life-long learning. Individualized curriculum customized for each student, expansive naturally lit rooms, low student ratio. Specials include yoga, music, Hebrew, Spanish, dance, drama, art and Tae Kwon Do. Flexible schedules, before and aftercare, web cams and after-school enrichment available. Transportation available to/from Mason schools. Limited space - now enrolling! • 7587 Central Parke Blvd., Mason, OH 45040, Phone: (513) 234-0600, ChaiTots.com , Ages/ Grades: Infant, Toddler, Preschool, Kindergarten (6 weeks-6 years), Enrollment: 60

Creative Tots, Mason

Our holistic approach allows children (18 months - 5 1/2 years) the opportunity to learn, explore, play and grow while engaging in the fine arts, science, music, yoga and a modernized curriculum. We provide opportunities to use creativity, solve problems, use language, develop new vocabulary and reading skills, while engaging in intellectual activities. There are elements of STEAM education, bilingual education, arts education, as well as lots of physical activities to strengthen the mind and body. • 6408 Thornberry Ct., Mason, OH 45040, Contact: Emilie Parry, Phone: 513-770-6776, Email: creativetotsmason@gmail.com, creativetotsmason.com , Grades: Toddler: 18 months-3 yrs, Preschool: 3-4 yrs; Pre-K: 4-5 yrs

MONTESSORI

Little Sprouts Montessori Preschool & Kindergarten

Little Sprouts Montessori nurtures the natural curiosity and enthusiasm of children, helping them develop a lifetime love of learning. Our goal is to empower children to discover and hone their strengths as they explore the world. We recognize the importance of individualized education, and maintain a 1:6 ratio. • 7131 Plainfield Road, Deer Park, OH 45236, Contact: Christie Sawyer, Phone: 513-697-9021, Email: csawyer@ leavesoflearning.org, little-sprouts.org , Grades: Preschool & Kindergarten, Enrollment: Families choose mornings two to four days per week (T/TH and/or W/F), and/or afternoon sessions on Tuesday and Thursday.

Mercy Montessori Center

Mercy Montessori is Cincinnati's first Catholic Montessori elementary school and provides students with a personalized education. Mercy offers a sliding scale tuition model, in-school swimming instruction starting at age three, and attracts students from over 60 zip codes. Mercy educates the whole child and develops a strong foundation for learning. • 2335 Grandview Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45206, Contact: Amanda Grimm, Admissions Director, Phone: (513) 475-6700 ext. 210, Email: agrimm@ mercymontessori.org, mercymontessori.org , Grades: Preschool - 8th Grade, Enrollment: 296

The New School Montessori

Cincinnati's only school accredited by the American Montessori Society. Centrally located and surrounded by wooded play yards and gardens, students benefit from a nurturing environment where Montessoricredentialed staff support high academic and personal achievement. Full-day, half-day with healthy lunches included in tuition. ISACS and AMS accredited program. • 3 Burton Woods Lane, Cincinnati, OH 45229, Contact: Ceara Comstock, Phone: (513) 281-7999, Email: ceara.c@newschoolmontessori.com, newschool montessori.com , Grades: 3-year-olds through Grade 6, Enrollment: 144

NON–PUBLIC Bethany School

A warm and diverse community that has served Ohio families for 125 years. We believe in the joy of learning. Serving students K-8th grade, our curriculum along with small class sizes of no more than 15 students spark curiosity, encourage play, and make discovery an exciting journey. Our graduates continue to experience academic success in

Cincinnati’s premier high schools. Bethany School’s students experience a vibrant array of activities including weekly chapel, fine arts, athletics, travel, and community service. Our beautiful, nature-filled, 23-acre campus features two LEED Platinum certified buildings offering an eco-friendly learning space where your child can grow and create wonderful memories. Choose Bethany School for your child’s enriching educational journey. • 555 Albion Avenue, Glendale, OH 45246 Phone: (513) 771-2462, Email: admissions@bethanyschool.org, bethanyschool.org

Cincinnati Christian Schools

CCS has been creating lifelong learners, creative thinkers, passionate disciples, and visionary leaders for over 40 years. Our graduates are welcomed at universities because they’ve become the natural learners and inquisitive students that God created them to be. CCS knows that faith and learning go hand-in-hand. Outstanding. Proven. • Elementary Campus: 7350 Dixie Hwy, Fairfield, OH, 45014, Junior/Senior High Campus: 7474 Morris Rd., Fairfield, OH, 45011, (513) 892-8500, Contact: Peggy Head, Director of Admissions, Email: peggyhead@ cincinnatichristian.org, cincinnatichristian. org , Grades: PS - 12

Guardian Angels School

Guardian Angels School provides students in preschool through eighth grade with a faith-filled experience focused on academic excellence, whole child education, and attention to each child’s unique learning needs. As a school, we push all of our students to earn their HALO through being Honest, Accountable, and a Leader to Others .

• 6539 Beechmont Ave., Cincinnati 45230, Contact: Mr. Corey Stoops, Principal, Phone: 513-624-3141, gaschool.org , Grades: Preschool - Grade 8

St. Helen School

Welcome to St. Helen where an amazing sense of community leads to academic excellence! Every day we strive to build character by living virtuously. Our ministry to model Catholic morals, values, and traditions while providing a structured, nurturing environment for each student to grow spiritually, academically, and emotionally. Our focus on faith formation and academic excellence prepares students to be life-long learners. A community that celebrates diversity, we welcome families all over the Miami Valley including military families from WPAFB.

• 5086 Burkhardt Road Riverside, OH 45431, Phone: (937) 256.1761, sainthelenschool.org

Rockwern Academy

Rockwern Academy provides academic excellence within a welcoming community. We ensure that students feel safe to take intellectual risks and each child reaches their full potential. We offer before and after-care. Our after-school activities such as dance, sports, art, and STEAM are open to our students and others. • 8401 Montgomery Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45236 Phone: 513-9843770, Contact: Sarah Shmoel, Email: admissions@rockwern academy.org, RockwernAcademy.org

The Summit Country Day School

Founded in 1890, The Summit serves students from 18 months to Grade 12. Full- and half-day Montessori programs for ages 18 months-age 6 begin the academic journey followed by a college-preparatory program (Grades 1-12). The Summit educates students spiritually, academically, physically, socially and artistically while offering the academic excellence and one-on-one guidance of a top-tier Catholic independent school. • 2161 Grandin Road (Hyde Park), Cincinnati, OH 45208, Phone: 513-871-4700, ext. 261, Email: pearl_e@ summitcds.org, summitcds.org

LEARNING DIFFERENCES Springer School and Center

For 50 years, Springer School and Center has empowered students with learning disabilities to lead successful lives. Springer offers a day school for students ages 6-14 and outreach programs and learning disability resources for students, parents and teachers in the Greater Cincinnati area. The Springer Experience. Success Starts Here. • 2121 Madison Road, Cincinnati, OH 45208, Contact: Jill Wieging, Associate Admissions Director, Phone: 513 871-6080 ext. 211, Fax: 513-871-6428, Email: jwieging@springer-ld.org, springer-LD.org , Grades: 1 through 8, Enrollment: 200 BE

2023 SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE GUIDE

CONSIDERING A NEW SCHOOL FOR YOUR STUDENT? OUR AREA HAS PLENTY TO CHOOSE FROM!

FIND THE RIGHT MATCH BY VISITING AN UPCOMING OPEN HOUSE TO GET ALL YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED.

ART ACADEMY OF CINCINNATI

1212 Jackson St., Cincinnati (513) 562-6262

artacademy.edu

Call to schedule a tour.

BETHANY SCHOOL

555 Albion Ave., Glendale (513) 771-7462

bethanyschool.org

Call to schedule a tour.

CHAI TOTS EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER

7587 Central Parke Blvd., Mason (513) 234-0600

chaitots.com

Call for a personal tour.

CINCINNATI HILLS CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

8283 East Kemper Rd., Cincinnati (513) 706-7019

chca-oh.org

Open Houses: November

4 & January 27 from 10am - 1pm (All Grades)

GUARDIAN ANGELS SCHOOL

6539 Beechmont Ave., Cincinnati (513) 624-3141

gaschool.org

Schedule a Personal Tour

Today!

HILLEL ACADEMY OF GREATER DAYTON

305 Sugar Camp Circle, Dayton (937) 277-8966

daytonhillel.org

Always open for an in person tour. Please give us a call.

MERCY MONTESSORI CENTER

2335 Grandview Ave., Cincinnati (513) 475-6700

mercymontessori.org

Open House: February

4, 2024 from 1-3pm

Mercy Meet-Ups (Virtual): Tuesdays at 9am on October 17, November 7, December 12, January 9, and March 12 and Wednesdays at 6:30pm on October 18, November 8, December 13, January 10, and March 13

THE NEW SCHOOL MONTESSORI

3 Burton Woods Ln., Cincinnati (513) 281-7999

newschoolmontessori.com

Open House (inperson): Sunday, October 8 from 2-4:00 pm

Virtual Open House: Tuesday, January 23 at Noon

ROCKWERN ACADEMY

8401 Montgomery Rd, Cincinnati (513) 984-3770

rockwernacademy.org

All preview events are for incoming students in those grade levels. Each event starts at 8:30am

Rising Kindergarten: November 6

Rising First & Second Grades: November 7

Rising Third & Fourth Grades: November 13

Rising Fifth & Sixth Grades: November 14

Call to schedule a personal tour anytime.

SAINT URSULA ACADEMY

1339 E. McMillian St., Cincinnati (513) 961-3410

saintursula.org

Open House: Sunday, October 22 from 1-4:00 pm

SPRINGER SCHOOL AND CENTER

2121 Madison Rd., Cincinnati (513) 871-6080

springer-ld.org

Tours available both in person and virtually.

ST. HELEN SCHOOL

5086 Burkhardt Road, Riverside (937) 256-1761

sainthelenschool.org

Open House: Thursday, February 22, 2024 from 6-8pm

ST. URSULA VILLA

3660 Vineyard Place & 2081 Anderson Cove Ln., Cincinnati (513) 871-7218

stursulavilla.org

All-School Open House: Sat. November 4 from 10am - 12pm

Main School Open House: Thurs., January 11, 2024 from 4:30 - 6:30 pm

SEVEN HILLS SCHOOL

Hillsdale Campus: 5400 Red Bank Rd., Cincinnati; Doherty Campus: 2726 Johnstone Pl., Cincinnati (513) 728-2400

7hills.org/welcome

EARLY CHILDHOOD & LOWER SCHOOL

ADMISSION EVENTS

*Virtual Event (Early Childhood Info Session): Pre-k for 2-yr-olds through K: Tues., Sept. 26, 1:30-2:15 pm

*Walk & Talk: Doherty: Pre-k for 2-yr-olds through grade

5: Tues., Oct. 10, 9-10 am

*Walk & Talk: Lotspeich: Pre-k for 2-yr-olds through grade 5 , Thurs., Oct. 12, 9-10 am

*Virtual Event (Lower School Info Session): Pre-k for 2-yr-olds through grade

5: Thurs., Oct. 26, 9-10 am

MIDDLE SCHOOL & UPPER SCHOOL

ADMISSION EVENTS

*Walk & Talk: Middle School, Upper School: Grades 6-12, Thurs., Oct. 19, 9-10 am

*Virtual Events: Middle School & Upper School Info Sessions: Grades 6-8, Grades 9-12): Tues., Oct. 24, 6:30-8 pm

*Walk & Talk: Middle School, Upper School: Grades 6-12, Thurs., Nov. 2, 9-10 a.m.

*Virtual Event: Student & Parent Panel: Grades 6-12, Thurs., Jan. 18, 7-7:45 pm All virtual events presented via Zoom

THE SUMMIT COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

2161 Grandin Road, Hyde Park (513) 871-4700, ext. 261 summitcds.org

Parent Preview Days (Ages 18 mos. - Grade 8): October 19 & November 9 at 8:30am

Parent Preview Days (Grades 9-12): September 27, October 4 and October 18 at 8:30am RSVP required. Register online, or email admissions@ summitcds.org.

BE PART OF NEXT MONTH'S GUIDE CONTACT

KATIE@ OHPARENT.COM

SIDE HUSTLES FOR BUSY PARENTS

Raising a child is already a full-time gig. But what can parents do to increase their cash flow while still being present in their young kids’ lives? For many parents in Southwest Ohio, finding the right side hustle has been the answer. Though certainly not full-time, side hustles aren’t quite part-time either (and are usually done from home), cementing their appeal among our city’s busy moms and dads. Here are some ideas from other our area's parents for creating a side hustle all your own.

Turn Your Creative Outlet into Income

Consider your strengths and interests, and explore opportunities that allow you to leverage those skills. For instance, if you enjoy writing, look for freelance opportunities or start a blog. If you're a crafty person, consider selling handmade goods online or at local craft fairs. If you have more time than anything and don’t mind driving, becoming a driver for a ride service might fit the bill. Like shopping? Working a couple of hours a day grocery shopping for others might be enough to add some extra fun money into your account.

One Parent’s Experience with a Successful Side Hustle

Angela Kuehnle works as a BabyQuip quality provider for Columbus, Ohio and surrounding areas. Quality providers rent, deliver and set up clean, safe and insured baby gear for other parents while they stay at hotels, Airbnbs, vacation rentals, and private residences. There are over 1,700 quality providers, many of whom are based in Ohio or Indiana. “I first heard about BabyQuip in 2019 on Shark Tank,” says Kuehnle, who thought the program sounded like the perfect fit for her.

Many quality providers start their businesses with the gear they already own and build inventory as they get orders. “I used to be a nanny, and our twins were 2 years old, so I had acquired a lot of baby gear,” Kuehnle says.

Indeed, having all the gear already made it easy to transform it all into rental pieces for other parents on holiday. But what really solidified the move to BabyQuip as a side hustle for Kuehnle was when her family relocated to a larger city. “I was waiting until we moved to a bigger city where I thought I would be more successful,” she says. There, she was able to acquire the types of vacationing or busy clientele who could rely on services.

For Kuehnle, a side hustle is something she takes seriously. “Side hustles take time and money to start,” Kuehnle says. Ask yourself the following questions before beginning, she says:

How much time and resources do you have?

Do you have enough available time in your schedule to make your business successful?

Can you afford the startup cost?

Plus, putting yourself out there can be half the battle. Kuehnle says she would like to put in more time to advertise her services. “I hope to invest more time into this once my twins are in school full time,” she says. As an already busy mom, sometimes she is unable to deliver full size cribs with her kids, “so my husband, a family member, or a sitter has to watch the kids,” she says. One day, she hopes to make enough to off-set the cost of a van. “Then I will be able to do all deliveries with my kids.”

Finding the Right Fit

For busy parents, finding time to pursue additional income opportunities can seem daunting, but a side hustle can provide a multitude of benefits. It can supplement your income, provide a creative outlet and help bolster professional skills. The key is finding a side hustle that fits into your already demanding schedule.

With a little ingenuity and determination, balancing a side hustle with parenting responsibilities is definitely achievable, and may even help you and your family in the long run. So don't shy away from exploring this route and see what opportunities await you!

Parents share how they created successful streams of extra income.

THINGS TO DO

SUN 01 Hyde Park Art Show The show features more than 200 fine artists from throughout Greater Cincinnati and across the country, exhibiting and selling works in a wide variety of mediums, including painting, photography, glass, jewelry, wood, fiber/leather, and ceramics. • Location: Hyde Park Square, Time: 10a-5p, hydeparkartshow.com FREE

Art on Vine Come Eat Shop and Enjoy All things local, from 80 local artists and makers selling fine art and handmade goods. • Location: Court Street Plaza, Time: 12p-6p, courtstreetcincy.com

Clodbuster Baseball Enjoy Vintage Base Ball matches with 1860 rules and uniforms featuring the Clodbuster BBC vs Iron Horses of the Erie Railway & Monarchs BBC. • Location: Carillon Historical Park, Time: 12p, daytonhistory.org FREE

Bowling for Rhinos Please join us for a night of bowling, silent auction, a raffle and drinks with friends to help conserve wild rhinos. In addition to bowling, we will have merchandise for sale, a silent auction, and a raffle with some amazing prizes. • Location: Oakley Bowl, Time: 5p, cincinnatizoo.org

Ring of Fire: The Music of Johnny Cash Celebrate the music of Johnny Cash in this toe-tapping, soul-stirring musical biography.

• Location: Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park, Time: 2p, cincyplay.com

MON 02 Youth/Teen Pick-up

Basketball Get your game on at the Youth/ Teen Pick-Up Basketball event at the Ziegler Park Basketball Courts. Bring your A-game and join Cincinnati Public Schools for an evening of hoops and friendly competition! • Location: Ziegler Park, Time: 5p, zieglerpark.org FREE

TUES 03 Resident Raptors Join our staff outside of the Rowe Visitor Center for a 10-20 minute mini-program on our resident raptors. • Location: Cincinnati Nature Center, Time: 11a, cincynature.org

WED 04 Stroller Striders Moms and Dads, grandparents as well! Grab your sneakers and a coffee, sippy cups too as you join staff for Stroller Striders. This one-hour walking program will get you and your little one(s) out in nature while enjoying the company of others. • Location: James Ranch Park, Time: 10a, gcparkstrails.com FREE

REC Reads Bring your toddler or preschooler to the Rosenthal Education Center for a morning of art-themed story books, songs, and sensory activities.

• Location: Cincinnati Art Museum, Time: 11:30a, cincinnatiartmuseum.org FREE

Pre-Match at the Park Festivities will include music and family-friendly activities in the park. Food trucks will be parked on Elm street serving up delicious grub. • Location: Washington Park, Time: 4:30p, washingtonpark.org FREE

THURS 05 Library Babies Fun for you and your baby with songs, rhymes, stories and movement. Then optional socializing and playtime. Recommended for ages birth – 18 months. •

Location: Wyoming Library Branch, Time: 10:30a, chpl.org FREE

FRI 06 –SAT 07 Laser Light Show

The Laser Light Show USA Tour promises a thrilling family-friendly experience with 360-degree laser projections across the night sky, concert-quality sound, vendors, and mouth-watering delights from fabulous food trucks! Drive in, park, and tune in your car radio to a designated radio frequency to immerse yourselves in a world of mesmerizing visuals and pulsating beats, all from the comfort of your vehicle. • Location: Coney Island, Time: 8p, coneyislandpark.com

FRI 06 First Friday This art hop features exhibit openings at the galleries, along with a variety of entertainment options, including street performances and roaming entertainers, arts demonstrations, live music, dining and shopping specials, and more. • Location: Downtown Dayton, Time: 5-10p, downtowndayton.org FREE

Pumpkin Patch Hop on a wagon ride to pick out the perfect pumpkin from Parky's Patch! After you pick your pumpkin, check out the fruitful fall crops and autumn activities. • Location: Parky’s Farm, Time: 11a, greatparks.org

First Friday First Friday is a free art hop featuring exhibit openings at the galleries, along with a variety of entertainment options, arts demonstrations, live music and more. Add to that everything going on at the restaurants, bars, nightclubs, theaters, comedy club, movie theater and more that make up the downtown mix. • Location: Downtown Dayton, Time 5p-9p, downtowndayton.org

FREE

Back to Nature Join us at our annual fundraiser at Krippendorf Lodge for cocktails, gourmet dinner stations, and an online naturethemed art and silent auction! Adults only. • Location: Cincinnati Nature Center, Time: 6p, cincynature.org

SAT 07–SUN 08 Wagner-Subaru

SUN 08 Tri-State Antique Market

This final market features over 200 vendors selling a wide variety of antique, vintage and retro goods spanning the last several decades with rare finds and exceptional bargains around every corner. Merchandise from virtually every time period will be represented, from early 1800s furnishings to pop culture memorabilia from the 1980s, with everything in between. • Location: Tri-State Antique Market, Time:7a- 3p, lawrenceburgantiqueshow.com

MON 09 Customer Appreciation

Day at Loveland

The Cincinnati Public Library is hosting this celebration to show appreciation for the community and give the opportunity to get to know your branch better! Drop in any time for food, fun and activities! • Location: Loveland Library Branch, Time: 10a-6p, chpl.org FREE

Outdoor Experience

The Midwest’s premier outdoor adventure festival dubbed the “The Outdoor Adventure Capital of the Midwest!” where you can camp, connect, compete, and experience dozens of outdoor activities. • Location: Eastwood MetroPark, Time: 6a-6p, outdoorx.metroparks.org

FREE

Sunflower Festival Wander through fields of cut-your-own-sunflowers ($1 per stem), visit education stations, enjoy live music, hop on a hayride or mule carriage ride, and peruse local goods from craft vendors and food trucks • Location: Gorman Farm, Time: 10a-6p, gormanfarm.org

SAT 07 Fall Harvest Series: Corn

Now that autumn is here, it's harvest time on the farm as we celebrate a different fall crop each week. This week we celebrate all things Corn! Enjoy a wagon ride through the woods and join us for familyfriendly fall harvest activities in the garden, including cooking demonstrations and tastings. • Location: Parky’s Farm, Time: 10a, greatparks.org

TUES 10 Baby Bounce It’s never too early to grow a child’s love of learning. This early literacy-based program features music, rhymes, stories, and more. For babies 0 to 24 months with a caregiver. • Location: Southeast Branch, Time: 10a, daytonmetrolibrary.org FREE

WED 11 The Great Pumpkin Patch

Hundreds of pumpkins will be hidden along the trails at the Russ Nature Reserve and your child, age 2-9, will have to search and find pumpkins that match images on the cards we provide. Each child will be given a card with 10 different objects to find, painted on the pumpkins. • Location: Russ Nature Reserve, Time: 5:30p, gcparkstrails.com FREE

THURS 12 Creature Chronicles

Calling all young explorers! Wiggle around with us and our animal friends, learn about them through story time, and waddle through the forest to make neat discoveries. Ages 2-5. • Location: Miami Whitewater Forest, Time: 10a, greatparks.org

Make a Hiking Stick

Choose your own pre-harvested honeysuckle branch, and craft it into a customized hiking stick. • Location: Cincinnati Nature Center, Time: 9 and 11a, cincynature.org

CAM Kids Enjoy a day full of art activities for the whole family! • Location: Cincinnati Art Museum, Time: 10a, cincinnatiartmuseum.org FREE

Princess Cruise We respectfully request that all Royal Princesses join us for an enchanting afternoon aboard our Princess Cruise. Enjoy a unique cruise featuring a DJ, dancing, and appearances by some of your favorite fairy tale princesses that we all love. • Location: BB Riverboats, Time: 11a, bbriverboats.com

Open House at the Patterson Homestead Learn about the Patterson Family and how they influenced the Dayton area. • Location: Patterson Homestead, Time: 12p-5p, daytonhistory.org

Discovery on the Farm

Why do farmers put scarecrows in fields? Ever wonder what we grow on the farm that is in candy corn? Find out these answers and build your very own scarecrow to take home for decoration. Fun activities, snack and live animal demonstrations included in program. • Location: Chrisholm MetroPark, Time: 10a, yourmetroparks.net FREE

Backyard Bingo

Join us for a friendly neighborhood game of bingo with a chance to win prizes! • Location: Imagination Alley, Time: 5p, imaginationalleyotr.com

FRI 13–SUN 15 Operation Pumpkin

Giant pumpkins, live entertainment, a familyfriendly atmosphere, and many costumes at this year's festival. • Location: Hamilton, Time: 11a-10p, operation-pumpkin.org FREE

FRI 13 Pumpkin Patch Hop on a wagon ride to pick out the perfect pumpkin from Parky's Patch! After you pick your pumpkin, check out the fruitful fall crops and autumn activities. • Location: Parky’s Farm, Time: 11a, greatparks.org

Growing Snacks The veggie garden has been growing all summer and lots of tasty foods are ready to be turned into yummy snacks. Drop in and find out what snack we are making today and prepare your own garden produce snack to try. • Location: Glenwood Gardens, Time: 10a, greatparks.org

Wild with my Child: Spooky Nature

During this self-paced discovery program, young children and their caregivers will explore nature together through multiple senses and outdoor exploration. • Location: Cincinnati Nature Center, Time: 9:15a and 10:30a, cincynature.org

Family Night Out! Bring the kids and enjoy a family-friendly Hayride, Pumpkinland, Giant jumping pillow, Obstacle course, Witches broom zipline, peddle carts, cow train, photo opts, corn crib, bonfire, vine climb s'mores, music, dancing, popcorn and lots of Autumn treats. Soft drinks, apple cider slushies, face painting not included with admission/ available for purchase. • Location: Burger Farm, Time: 7-10pm, Cost: $15 per person, burgerfarms.com

Halloween Bash Halloween is almost here! Come celebrate with your family & friends. We'll have food, games, prizes, a pumpkin patch, pumpkin decorating, balloon animals, music & more. • Location: Covington Branch Library, Time: 6p-8p, kentonlibrary.org FREE

SAT & SUN, OCTOBER 07-08

SUNFLOWER FESTIVAL AT GORMAN HERITAGE FARM

GREEN GRASSHOPPERS HALLOWEEN PARTY AT FAIRGROUNDS REC CENTER

SAT 14 City Flea The City Flea is Cincinnati’s original curated, urban flea market that takes place once a month at Washington Park. • Location: Washington Park, Time: 10a-4p, washingtonpark.org FREE

The Queen Bee The Queen Bee Half Marathon is on a mission: to promote the fun of fitness while raising support and funds for local charities that focus on women. Race weekend will include plenty of pampering, swag, and fun—the perfect ingredients for a great girls’ weekend. • Location: Downtown Cincinnati, Time: 7:30a, flyingpigmarathon.com

Kids Fish or Treat Free activities include pumpkin painting, a fishing competition, and a costume contest! Kids fish for free but will need to bring their own equipment. • Location: Lake Isabella, Time: 11a, greatparks.org FREE

Leaf Printing in the Nature Playscape Capture fall colors by printing with leaves gathered from the Nature PlayScape at our Rowe Woods location. This is a fun art project for children of all ages that includes pounding with mallets and stamping with paint! • Location: Cincinnati Nature Center, Time: 2p, cincynature.org

SUN 15 Fall Food Fest This tasting event lets you sample some of the very best fall dishes from merchants, vendors and farmers at Findlay Market. There will also be a Children’s Spooky Scavenger Hunt, a fall-themed photo booth, and live music from Wild Carrot and Tracy Walker & Friends • Location: Findlay Market, Time: 10a-4p, findlaymarket.org

Family Fun Day Explore the Taft’s newest exhibition, Sporting Fashion, with the whole family! Discover the vibrant history of women’s athletic fashion with a day at the museum full of fun, musical performances, art-making, and more to inspire your young creators! • Location: Taft Museum of Art, Time: 10a-4p, taftmuseum.org FREE

Bengals Tailgate and Watch Party Show your stripes! Join us for a Bengals Tailgate & Watch Party on the Square before Bengals Home Games. Get hyped before the games with live music, drink specials, and games! The game will be playing on the Fifth Third LED Board with audio on. • Location: Fountain Square, Time: 10a-1p, myfountainsquare.com FREE

Deeds Carillon Concert Join for a free, family-friendly concert located at Deeds Carillon performed by Dr. Larry Weinstein. • Location: Deeds Carillon, Time: 3p, daytonhistory. org FREE

MON 16 Kinderbridge Storytime

Get ready for Kindergarten with stories, songs, and hands-on activities. Recommended for ages 4-6 with a caregiver. • Location: Harrison Library Branch, Time: 1:30p, chpl.org FREE

TUES 17 Resident Raptors Join our staff outside of the Rowe Visitor Center for a 10-20 minute mini-program on our resident raptors. • Location: Cincinnati Nature Center, Time: 11a, cincynature.org

Calling all Homeschoolers!

Pioneers Homeschoolers and their families are invited out to the Governor Bebb Pioneer Village for a chance to experience life in the early 1800s. Dip candles, cook a meal, and go to school like the settlers did. • Location: Governor Bebb MetroPark, Time: 10a, yourmetroparks.net

Green Grasshoppers Halloween Party Our popular Greene Grasshoppers programming is back for another year of fun! These once-a-month programs are designed to get kids, ages 6-9, out into the parks having fun while doing so. • Location: Fairgrounds Recreation Center, Time: 5:30p, gcparkstrails.com FREE

WED 18 Create and Play: Competition Clothing Bring your young one to the Taft! Explore the galleries together while learning about art through guided activities and interactive games. Then get creative in the studio and make your own masterpiece to take home. • Location: Taft Museum of Art, Time: 10:15a, taftmuseum.org

THURS 19 Wiggle Worms

Halloween Bash Our Wiggle Worms program is back again for another year of fun! What will we get into next? • Location: Fairgrounds Recreation Center, Time: 10a, gcparkstrails.com FREE

Chippie's Sensational Kids Club: Witches and Goblins Tots and caregivers enjoy seasonal books, crafts and experiments in science, technology, reading, engineering and math.

• Location: Behringer-Crawford Museum, Time: 11a, bcmuseum.org

Food Truck Rodeo Round up your friends and family because there's a new, delicious event in town! This delectable event will feature a mouthwatering variety of food trucks, ranging from American classics, Indian fare, Jamaican eats, and live music! • Location: Court Street Plaza, Time: 11a-2p, courtstreetcincy.com FREE

Discovery on the Farm: Pumpkin Hunt Pumpkin hunting, bowling, decorating and eating are some of the fun activities during this program. Take home a pumpkin, enjoy a snack and share pumpkins with the farm animals too.

• Location: Chrisholm MetroPark, Time: 10a, yourmetroparks.net

FRI 20–SAT 21 Family Flashlight

Scavenger Hunt During this exciting night hike we’ll use our senses and our flashlights to experience nature in a new way. • Location: Cincinnati Nature Center Long Branch Farm, Time: 7:30p, cincynature.org

FRI 20–SUN 22 Charm at the Farm Vintage Market This open-air vintage market is located on a 56-acre farm in quaint, Lebanon, OH. The best local artisans and shops from across the region come together exclusively at Charm at the Farm to create an exciting, outdoor shopping experience like no other only 3 weekends per year. Charm features rustic gifts, furniture, home décor and more, and is the perfect girls' day out!

• Location: 4953 Bunnell Hill Rd., Lebanon, OH 4503, charmatthefarm.com

SAT 21–SUN 22 Storybook

Weekend: Thomas and the Runaway Pumpkins Celebrate all things pumpkins and trains this weekend. Participate in story time, make crafts, play with trains and other fun garden adventures.

• Location: Glenwood Gardens, Time: Saturday 10a, Sunday 12:30p, greatparks.org

SAT 21 The Howl "Bark" your calendars for a fun filled day celebrating the cute canine friends in our community. Look forward to a costume contest, an obstacle course, vendors, and more! • Location: Voice of America MetroPark, Time: 4-7p, yourmetroparks.net

Cyclones First Face Off Hockey is back in the Queen City! Pack the rink and get loud as the Cyclones raise a Division Title Banner to the rafters!

• Location: Heritage Bank Center, Time: 6:30p, cycloneshockey.com

SUN 22 Animaniacs in Concert

It’s time for Animaniacs…IN CONCERT! Join the voices of Animaniacs – the iconic animated Warner Bros series (produced by Steven Spielberg) – for a “zany, animany and totally insaney” evening as they perform the world-famous songs from the beloved cartoon. • Location: Memorial Hall, Time: 7p, memorialhallotr.com

MON 23 Family Storytime Bring your family to enjoy books, songs and other activities while building early literacy skills. Storytime is inside the library and includes a craft or activity. • Location: Green Hills Library Branch, Time: 10:30a, chpl.org FREE

TUES 24 Preschool

Storytime Join us for stories, songs, and other fun learning activities designed to develop the language, literacy, and social skills your preschooler needs for school success. For ages 3-5. • Location: New Lebanon Library Branch, Time: 10:30a, daytonmetrolibrary.org FREE

WED 25 Halloween Storytime Join for stories, songs, and other fun learning activities designed to develop the language, literacy, and social skills your preschooler needs for school success. Wear your costume for a costume parade in the library and treats will be handed out. • Location: Miami Township Library Branch, Time: 10:30a, daytonmetrolibrary.org FREE

THURS 26 –SAT 28 Pumpkin Glow

The trails of Caesar Ford Park will be lined with hundreds of hand-painted pumpkins covering everything from cartoons to music to horror shows, animals, and more. Once illuminated with the black light, the pumpkin comes to life! • Location: Caesar Ford Park, Time: 6-9p, gcparkstrails.com FREE

THURS 26 Thursday Art Play: Halloween Party Join us for a super spooky Halloween-themed Art Play! Costumes are welcome as we create art inspired by this eerie day. Stop by the CAC to create some “scary” artwork, then trick-ortreat throughout the museum offices. Stick around for some spine-tingling yoga. • Location: Contemporary Arts Center, Time: 10:30-11:30a, contemporaryartscenter.org/experience/ calendar/2023/10/26/thursday-art-playhalloween-party

SAT, OCTOBER 21

THE HOWL AT VOICE OF AMERICA METROPARK

FRI-SUN, OCTOBER 27-29

RINGLING BROS. AND BARNUM & BAILEY® PRESENTS THE GREATEST SHOW ON EARTH AT HERITAGE BANK CENTER

FRI 27 Pumpkin Patch

Hop on a wagon ride to pick out the perfect pumpkin from Parky's Patch! After you pick your pumpkin, check out the fruitful fall crops and autumn activities. • Location: Parky’s Farm, Time: 11a, greatparks.org

Your Park After Dark Experience Your Park After Dark at Chrisholm. Ever wonder what our farm animals do at night? Enjoy the light of a full moon with a fun campfire, smore's, astronomy stories and visit with the animals Registration is required. • Location: Chrisholm MetroPark Historic Farmstead, Time: 7:30-8:30p, yourmetroparks.net

FRI 27–SUN 29 Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® presents The Greatest Show on Earth Children Of All Ages are invited to a spectacle of superhuman feats, pushing the limits of possibility and thrilling families and fans of all generations. Feel part of the show with an immersive, 360-degree environment and new technology that creates real connections between you and unforgettable performers from all over the world. Witness daring and never-beforeseen acts on a highwire, trapeze, bicycle, and much, much more. Share the laughter and awe-inspiring spirit of the circus and ignite your family’s spark of fun at The Greatest Show On Earth®. Come fun, come all! • Location: Heritage Bank Center, Times: Vary, Ringling.com

SAT 28–SUN 29 Fall Fest Weekend

Carve out some good times at Washington Park’s weekend of fall family fun! • L ocation: Washington Park, Time: 11a-4p, washingtonpark.org FREE

SAT 28 Fall Harvest Series:

Pumpkins Now that autumn is here, it's harvest time on the farm as we celebrate a different fall crop each week. This week we celebrate all things Pumpkin! Enjoy a wagon ride through the woods and join us for family-friendly fall harvest activities in the garden, including cooking demonstrations and tastings. • Location: Winton Woods, Time: 10a, greatparks.org

Nature at Night Pumpkin Hike Jack-o’-lanterns will light your path as you discover the wonder of nature at night along the Pin Oak Trail. Bring a flashlight and arrive any time between 6:30 and 7:30 p.m. for this self-guided hike. When you’re finished, enjoy some fall fun around the campfire! • Location: Farbach-Werner, Time: 6:30p, greatparks.org

Boos and Brews on the Levee

Calling all ghouls and goblins! Enjoy a spooktacular Halloween celebration for kids of all ages during our Trick or Treating event. The adults are invited to stay late for a BOOzy night out! • Location: Newport on the Levee, Time: 5-9p, newportonthelevee.com FREE

SUN 29 Celebrating Halloween with RAPTOR, Inc. Educators will be available to welcome guests, lead tours, conduct educational programs with our avian ambassadors, share biological artifacts, and answer questions. Visit various educational stations, see and learn about the birds of prey native to our area and the work that RAPTOR Inc. does to protect them. • Location: RAPTOR, Inc., Time: 1p-3p, raptorinc.org FREE

Howl-o-Ween Monster Mash dance party, trick or treat trail and more! • Location: Boonshoft Museum, Time: 5:30p, boonshoft.org

MON 30 Family Storytime Bring the entire family to enjoy books, songs, and activities while building literacy skills with Ms. Krista! All are welcome, recommended for children ages 1- 5. • Location: Cheviot Library Branch, Time: 10:30a, chpl.org FREE

TUES 31 Trick or Treat at the Market Welcome in neighborhood families and schools to trick or treat at Findlay Market. There will be children’s story time & crafts, games, a spooky haunted house, and more! • Location: Findlay Market, Time: 4-6p, findlaymarket.org

ONGOING

BooFest at the Y Select Days in October. Join the YMCA of Greater Cincinnati's 9 family branches for this free family event. Costumes are encouraged. Get ready to spend quality family time doing activities, dancing, and visiting all stations. The events are open to the community so we encourage our members to invite friends to join them! • Location: 9 Cincinnati YMCA branches, Times: Check website for each branch's specific date and time, myy. org/boo-fest-free-family-events/

Ohio Renaissance Festival Weekends through October 29. Immerse yourself in a world of lively shows, tantalizing food & drink, and unique shops that transport you back in time to the days of knights and queens. • Location: Renaissance Festival, renfestival.com

SELECT DAYS IN OCTOBER

HALLZOOWEEN AT THE CINCINNATI ZOO

Fall Fun on the Farm Daily through October 31. Fall On The Farm in Loveland is open daily with Hayrides, Corn Mazes, a 40 Animal Petting Farm, Pumpkin Bounce Pad, Barnyard 500 trike track, Farm Games, Photo Opts, Pumpkins, Bakery Treats and enjoy the Beer Garden Friday – Sunday. • Location: Blooms and Berries Farm Market, bloomsandberries.com

Waynesville Fall Fest Through October 29. Get ready for a 5-acre corn maze, two mini golf courses, gem mining, the Wildwater Mining Company mega playset, carnival games, a petting farm, pedal cars, Water Wars, disc golf, pumpkin painting, S.L. Expedition adventure trucks, and so much more! • Location: Waynesville, waynesvillefallfest.com

Jack-o-Lantern Junction Through October 31. Halloween fun for the whole family! Kids can Trick-or-Treat thru our indoor, kid friendly maze and see friendly ghosts, skeletons and more. Plus, see our new Halloween mini scenes and a Halloween themed train display! • Location: EnterTRAINment Junction, entertrainment junction.com

HallZOOween October 14-15, 21-22, 28-29. HallZOOween is free with Zoo Admission! Guests will be treated to a day of fun at the Cincinnati Zoo! Help the Zoo go green, please bring your own treat bag! Trick or Treat Stations, Special Animal Enrichment, Phil Dalton’s Theater of Illusion Shows at 1pm & 3pm, Hogwarts Express Train Ride, Scare-ousel. • Location: Cincinnati Zoo, Time: 12p-5p, cincinnatizoo.org

The Spongebob Musical October 14-22. Plunge into this stunning all-singing, all-dancing, dynamic stage show! When the citizens of Bikini Bottom discover that a volcano will soon erupt and destroy their humble home, SpongeBob and his friends must come together to save the fate of their undersea world. • Location: Taft Theatre, showtimes vary thechildrenstheatre.com

Game Day on the Levee October 1, 8, 15, 29. Catch every major sporting event on the jumbo LED during Game Day on the Levee! Put on your favorite jersey and cheer on the Cincinnati Bengals while enjoying food and drink from Bridgeview Box Park. • Location: Newport on the Levee, newportonthelevee.com FREE

Pumpkin Patch Express October 7-8, 14-15, 21-22, 28-29. During the journey Scarecrow hosts will be making balloon pumpkins for passengers to enjoy as they take in the sights of fall outside. After a 20 minute ride, the train will stop at the Pumpkin Patch to receive a small pie pumpkin. • Location: Lebanon Mason Monroe Railroad, Time: 10a, 12p and 3p, lebanonrr.com

Get Outside Book Club October 1-31. The Get Outside Book Club is a Dayton Metro Library and Five Rivers MetroParks program designed for preschoolers and their parents and includes three types of activities: Storytimes and adventures in MetroParks, live animal experiences in Dayton Metro Library Branches, and at-home reading and family adventures. • Location: Vary, refer to website, daytonmetrolibrary.org FREE

Tricks and Treats Fall Fest Weekends, October 1-29. Make no bones about it, Kings Island's Tricks and Treats Fall Fest is set to be the area’s favorite Halloween event. Everyone in the family— from tots to tweens to grown-ups—will have a spooktacular time with fun fall activities, specialty food and craft beers, games and game shows, music entertainment, trick-or-treating, and so much more! • Location: Kings Island, visitkingsisland.com

Haunted Village October 13-14, 20-21, 27-28. Heritage Village Museum will transform into a Haunted Village for a family-friendly, slight-fright event. Explore the village meeting ghosts, witches, and a fortune teller along the way. Walk through the haunted woods, enjoy balloon art, games, a creepy critter zoo, face painting, storytelling, and more! • Location: Heritage Village Museum, Time: 6-10p, heritagevillagecincinnati.org

Fall Farm Fun Days October 7-8, 14-15, 21-22, 28-29. Gorman Heritage Farm is staying open later to enjoy hayrides, pumpkins, cut your own sunflowers, and treats from the farm shop. • Location: Gorman Heritage Farm, Time: 9a-3p, gormanfarm.org

Burger Farm Fall Festival

Weekends in October. Families are invited to take a hayride, walk through pumpkin land, jump on the giant pillow, ride the barrel cow train, watch a puppet show, pedal a cart and more! • Location: Burger Farm, Time: 10a-6p, burgerfarms.com

PLEASE NOTE We work hard to ensure our calendar and guide information is accurate. Occasionally, event specifics change after we go to press. Therefore, we encourage our readers to call locations or visit them on the web to verify information.

CALENDAR SW OHIO PARENT