Each family picks different names to call their grandparents. Find out what’s trending. Also, helpful tips on how to choose.
40 Community Focus: Summit County Nestled in the heart of Northeast Ohio, Summit County
a big city with the charm of small-town life.
6 Editor’s Note Season(s) of sports.
8
Worth Noting Why do kids hate veggies? Plus, reading room, eye exams for kids, homeschool events and more.
10 Ages and Stages Learn the dos and don’ts of bedtime routines from preschool to teens.
12 Open Houses Explore education options for your child by attending a fall school visit.
43 Calendar Find kid-friendly things-to-do all month long for all ages and stages of your family life.
46 Dad Matters Dad matters columnist Jason Lee shares how to help kids learn in a museum.
Season(s) of Sports
For anyone who knows me, they understand during certain seasons, I am unavailable most weekends and nights. (OK, at one point, it was all seasons, but not anymore). That’s what a sports mom’s life is like. We are either taking our kids to games, practices or training.
As a seasoned sports mom, when I see parents who are just getting their kids in these activities, I can’t help but to activate my warning signal.
I’m not saying it’s bad, actually I quite enjoy my time watching my kids and their teammates play. As someone who tried to play sports, but wasn’t very good, I’m amazed with all the kids’ ability to hit a ball, make a basket, and skate and shoot a puck at the same time.
The warning is about the investment and intensity of sports, if that ends up in your family’s direction.
Dr. Timotheus Watson, pediatric cardiologist at Akron Children’s says from a cardiovascular standpoint, “I feel like youth sports, the amount of time and intensity and commitment, has increased compared to when I was growing up.”
It’s not just one sport, either.
Dr. Derrick Eddy, director of sports medicine at Akron Children’s says “The trend, it’s been going on for the past several years, is specialization. We’re seeing kids specialize early or earlier in sport. And, so they’re doing the same sport year round. That (can) lead to overuse injuries because you’re doing the same kind of motions movements patterns.”
As parents, we might ask how our kids’ bodies react to sports activities and are they being safe?
You have to start with the right questions, especially as they progress into more high level training and practices. Are they using exercise equipment properly or taking the right precautions? Are they staying hydrated during practice? Are they eating enough throughout the day and replenishing after workouts or practices? Are they getting enough sleep at night?
There is so much more to know about sports and kid safety. So NortheastOhioParent.com asked Eddy and Watson to provide tips about training and more. Check it out on our website this month.
It’s not just about our kids, but parents have to understand their interactions with others on the sports fields and with youth coaches. I admit, I get excited, and love to see my kid make the big play, but I also try to be a cheerleader for the other kids, too.
Speaking of rooting for things, I know it’s September, but does anyone else want to get rid of the summer decorations and break out the harvest decor. I kept saying, it’s too early in August, but the store fall aisles were enticing me. Something better than decor is food. Check out the family-friendly meal plan that’s ripe for the season.
I know a lot of sports activities intertwine with back-to-school for most families. So you are likely tackling schedules that have to fit in homework, games, practice, work, etc. Also, when to eat, when to sleep for everyone is the name of the game. As we head into the cozy sleep season (cooler temps means fuzzier blankets and pjs), it might be time to rethink your family’s sleep routine. Check out the dos and don’ts of bedtime in this issue.
For me, I know I will be sleeping a bit easier by the end of the month, that’s when I feel we will be more settled into a new routine. And maybe, my house will look a bit more fall-like.
September 2025
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Why Do Most Kids
If your child treats spinach like it’s toxic, you’re not alone. From weird textures to ancient instincts, there are surprising reasons kids push veggies off their plates. We spoke with Hanna Leikin, a dietitian with Cleveland Clinic Children’s, about what’s really going on — and how to turn the veggie battle into a win.
UNPREDICTABLE TASTE AND TEXTURE
Children thrive on routine — especially when it comes to food. That’s why snacks like crackers or cereal are such a hit: they look, feel and taste the same every time.
“Vegetables are highly variable in taste, texture and color. The variability is not only between each vegetable type but can also be from the same exact vegetable,” Leikin says. “For example, a bell pepper tastes, looks and feels nothing like broccoli, but also when comparing one bell pepper to another, there can be differences.”
Beyond just flavor, Leikin says texture can be a major turnoff. Kids may find mushy peas gross or slimy spinach unpleasant, even if the taste isn’t that bad. A vegetable’s feel in the mouth can often matter more than how it tastes.
“The resistance to eating vegetables can stem from their fear of the unknown and consuming something that is very unfamiliar to their palate,” Leikin says.
ANCESTRY INFLUENCE
Many kids don’t like vegetables because they’re naturally cautious around unfamiliar foods — and there may be an evolutionary reason for that.
Believe it or not, Leikin says there is a theory that because fruits and vegetables were likely to be poisonous to our ancestors, children may have a natural inclination to avoid them for safety. What’s more, that survival instinct may still linger in children today, making them more hesitant to try vegetables, especially ones with strong or bitter flavors like spinach or Brussels sprouts.
LIMITED EXPOSURE
Leikin says that in her practice, she has found that most often a child does not like vegetables due to limited exposure.
“It can take up to 10 to 15 exposures for a child to accept new food,” she says. “Often, parents stop offering new food after one or two exposures if the child does not prefer it, which can significantly impact the number of vegetables in their diet.
Leikin notes that at initial exposure, a child may be overwhelmed with the sense of taste, smell, texture and sight if it is a new experience for them.
As the child becomes more com-
Hate Veggies?
By Lori Orlinsky
fortable or familiar with the food, they are more likely to accept the food and enjoy it.
MISSING THE COLORFUL PLATE
Even if your child resists, vegetables are essential for growth, immunity and overall health. That’s why Leikin encourages families to “eat the rainbow,” offering a colorful variety of vegetables to ensure kids get a broad range of nutrients.
In addition to food variety, food quantity also matters. From ages 4-8, it is recommended kids eat 1 ½ to 2 ½ cups of vegetables per day and for ages 9 to 18, 2 to 3 cups per day.
“The general guideline I give to families is to make half your child’s plate vegetables at meals to get in the recommended serving of vegetables per day,” Leikin says.
CREATIVE STRATEGIES THAT WORK
If your child is struggling to get vegetables, don’t give up — just get creative. Leikin says some ways parents can hide vegetables are through smoothies; pureeing vegetables (carrots, onions, butternut squash) into marinara sauce or mac and cheese; cauliflower crust pizza or adding vegetables into meatballs (spinach, carrots, green onions).
Is it Time for Your Kids to Get Their Eyes Checked?
With school starting back up, now is a good time to get your child in for an eye exam — especially since vision is so important for learning.
“When kids are starting school, we want to make sure that they can see well enough, so they are able to focus on learning, and that their vision isn’t getting in the way of their ability to learn and communicate with others,” says Dr. Allison Babiuch, pediatric ophthalmologist at Cleveland Clinic. “If a child isn’t able to see well enough, that might hold them back and get them behind in school.”
Babiuch adds children don’t always know if they’re having vision issues since that’s what they’ve always been used to, or maybe the changes were gradual. So, what are some signs a child has trouble seeing?
She said often they will squint while trying to read something, or maybe tilt
their head, or move closer to an object to get a better look.
While every state has different recommendations for eye exams, screenings for children normally begin around 3 years old.
“When you’re at the pediatrician, or the schools, and they do a vision screen, that is just checking their vision,” she says. “When you come for a full eye exam with an eye doctor, typically you’re getting dilated. That’s the eye drops that make the pupils big and your vision blurry. But it allows us to see inside the eyes to make sure everything’s healthy and also allows us to get an accurate glasses prescription.”
Babiuch notes if your family has a history of vision issues, like a lazy eye, be sure to let your child’s pediatrician know. The sooner they can catch it, the better.
— my.clevelandclinic.org
Outdoor Homeschool Adventures
Here are some learning opportunities for your homeschooler. Find more events and activities for at-home students at NortheastOhioParent.com
September 16
Homeschoolers Outdoor Education: Butterflies. Attend natural science classes in the classroom and the outdoors and tag monarch butterflies. Ages 7-12. 10 a.m-12 p.m. Oenslager Nature Center, 6100 Ridge Road, Sharon Ctr., medinacountyparks.com
September 18
Homeschoolers: Amazing Ants. Ages 7-12
learn about the fascinating world of ants. 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Liberty Park Nature Center, 9999 Liberty Road, Twinsburg, summitmetroparks.org
September 17
Outdoor Adventures for Teen Homeschoolers. Try stand up paddleboarding under the guidance of certified instructors. 10 a.m. or 1 p.m. Wallace Lake, Mill Stream Run
Reservation, 10749 Pearl Road, Strongsville, clevelandmetroparks.com
September 19
Homeschool Field Trip: Animals in History. Learn about the different ways animals have impacted Ohio history, from transportation, to politics, to the environment. 10 a.m.12 p.m. Cleveland History Center, 10825 East Blvd., wrhs.org
Local Children’s Musician Mr. Jeff Releases Third Full-Length
Album: Big Kid Stuff
Award-winning children’s music artist and educator Mr. Jeff Klemm of Akron is back with a new collection of songs aimed to guide kids through the ups, downs, and big feelings of growing up. The album features collaborations, including Ronnie Boy Kids, FYÜTCH, Miss Jessica, Tara Trudel and Mega Ran. Each track is written, performed, produced, mixed and mastered entirely by Jeff Klemm himself, with additional vocals from his own children Silas, Juniper and Jonah, and cover art lovingly created by his wife Jillian Klemm. Physical CDs, digital downloads, and special bundles, including limited-edition merch, are available at mrjeffisfun.com
RE A D I N G R O O M
Ready, the Reading Dinosaur, loves books. Here’s a few for your little ones to elementary school age. Find other options at NortheastOhioParent.com
TOUCH AND TRACE NURSERY RHYMES: ITSY BITSY SPIDER FINGER PUPPET BOOK
By Emily Bannister
This super sweet finger puppet book with adorable illustrations will keep little ones engaged as they sing along with the beloved rhyme. It features a soft plush spider finger puppet built into the book that brings the Itsy Bitsy rhyme to life.
THE BAKERY DRAGON By
Devin Elle
Kurtz Ember fears he’ll never collect a respectable hoard of gold until a chance encounter with a baker causes his fortunes to turn (and his stomach to grumble). As the little dragon soon discovers, the gold you make is way better than the gold you steal — and gold that is shared? That’s best of all.
TINY T. REX AND THE FIRST-DAY OOPSIES: A BACK-TOSCHOOL BOOK By
Jonathan Stutzman
and illustrated by
Jay Fleck
Despite being a little dino in a big world, Tiny doesn’t mind taking on a new challenge, even when it’s the first day at a brand-new school. From his giant backpack to his good-luck bow tie, Tiny is prepared for anything, and that means nothing can go wrong . . . right?
The Dos and Don’ts of Bedtime Routines
From preschoolers to teens, crafting the right bedtime routine can make all the difference
Bedtime can be a daunting part of nighttime routines for many families. As children grow through new stages of life, it’s common for them to go through phases where they struggle to fall asleep or stay asleep.
Dr. Brian Chen, of the Cleveland Clinic Sleep Disorders Center, says good bedtime routines are crucial to regulating a child’s internal body clock, or circadian rhythm.
“During sleep, the body releases growth hormones and the brain consolidates memories and processes information,” he says. “Children who have good quality sleep are more well-rested and are generally happier.”
This guide of dos and don’ts can help parents in crafting the perfect bedtime routine for their children at every stage.
SAME TIME, EVERY TIME
For younger kids, having a fixed bedtime and wake up time can be integral to cementing a routine sleep schedule. Going to bed and waking up at the same time helps to regularly reset a child’s circadian rhythm, which will help them get adequate rest and lessen sleep interruptions.
“Have a routine, whatever that may be,” Chen says. “Often including brushing teeth, bath time and story time. Be sure to maintain strict (boundaries) and not let the bedtime routine get pushed too late with curtain calls.”
ENCOURAGING INDEPENDENCE
As children reach elementary age, the amount of sleep they need slightly decreases. Kids at this age are weaned off naptimes as they attend full days of school. Bedtimes can be pushed back slightly later, but it is important to maintain a wake-up time that is not too early. In this new stage, let children discover what works for them regarding sleep and nighttime routines.
“This is also the time to encourage independence, including in the bedtime routine,” Chen says.
TEEN SLEEP STRUGGLES
By Lainey Novak
Teens often face a distinctive set of challenges regarding sleep due to physiological and lifestyle shifts. Teenagers should be maintaining 8-10 hours of sleep a night, even with busy school and social schedules.
Chen says teenagers should not be napping and if it’s occurring, it could be a sign of insufficient sleep. He also suggests children consume caffeine with caution.
“Caffeine can have very significant side effects for teenagers including anxiety, palpitations (fast heartbeats), and insomnia,” he says.
UNPLUG TO UNWIND
Excessive screentime at night can interrupt sleep and pushback bedtimes for people of all ages.
“The light from our screens delays our natural melatonin production and can push bedtime later,” Chen says. “The fun people and things on our screens tend to keep us awake as well.”
He adds it’s important for parents to lead by example. Set up engaging, screen-free family activities in the evening to help calm the brain as bedtime approaches. He also suggests having a designated space for all electronics outside the bedroom, where kids know they will be waiting for them in the morning.
The New Wave of Grandparent Names: Why “Grandma” and “Grandpa” Are Getting a Makeover
Grandma and Papa
Grandma, Papa Rapsik, Carson and Austin
Mama Ouse
“We would frequently ask our firstborn if he wanted to visit Grandma’s house. As he began to speak he would call Grandma “Mama Ouse” as a title. Now our second born is beginning to say the same!”
- Kimberly DiCarlo of Willoughby
In photo: Mama Ouse, with Luca, Noah and Kimberly
Becoming a grandparent no longer means being automatically called “Grandma” or “Grandpa.” Today’s grandparents are increasingly choosing more unique and personalized grandparent names — ones that reflect their personality or style.
From the popular “Gigi” and “Mimi” for grandmothers to playful nicknames like “Coach” or “Boss” for grandfathers, grandparents are opting for names that match how they see themselves in their new role.
By Shana O’Malley-Smith
Northeast Ohio Parent readers
shared their grandparents’ monikers with us.
Papa and Granny
“They called my mom and dad granny, and papa to distinguish between my husband’s parents who are grandma and grandpa.”
- Bridgette Smith of Cleveland
In photo: Bridgette, Zavien, Granny Belinda, Papa Linus, Zaiden and Zariah.
Grammy and Grampy
“Grammy and Grampy are vibrant, energetic, and full of joy—always bringing fun and laughter wherever they go. They truly deserved titles as lively and spirited as they are.”
- Dakota Stadnik of Bay Village
In photo: Grampy, Sloan, Mackenzie, Grammy, Clara, Madelyn, Owen and Clayton.
Gamby & Gamp
“The first grandkid started it! Everybody has followed.”
- Renee Pengov of Madison
In photo: Gamp, Gamby, Maeve, and Freya
“It becomes this big identity choice, which at a time in life when you’re usually not remaking your identity,” says Sophie Kihm, editor-in-chief at Nameberry.com. “So, I think that’s part of the fun, too. You know who you are by the time you’re a grandparent, and now you get to pick this grandma or grandpa name that really fits who you want to be as a grandparent.” Choosing your grandparent name can be a fun, family affair and be a meaningful way to prepare for this new chapter togeth-
er. Kihm encourages grandparents and parents-to-be to have an open conversation about the name selection and offers a few tips to help guide the process.
Avoid Confusion: Try not to pick a name too similar to the baby’s name or to the names the parents might want to use for future siblings.
Coordinate With Co-Grand parents: Consider the names the other set of grandparents will be using. Having two “Nanas”
- CONTINUED ON PAGE 14 -
Popeye and Mimi
“Popeye has a sailboat and is therefore a sailor man, and it turns out that ‘Popeye’ is very easy for a toddler to pronounce. They also add “toot toot” on cue when the chorus of the Popeye theme song is sung. Mimi is how the first grandchild pronounced Grammy.”
- Meghan Ellery of Lakewood. In photos; Photo 1: Popeye and Alaina.
2: Mimi and Adam
or “Poppys” in the family might create confusion.
Keep It Baby-Friendly: Some sounds are easier for babies to pronounce, especially ones with lots of vowels or soft consonants like B, M, P, D, T, N, and G. Think “Nana,” “Baba,” “Gaga” or “Papa.”
Even the best-laid grandparent-naming plans can be undone by one tiny, babbling voice. And that’s OK!
“Sometimes you are named by your grandchild. If they can’t pronounce certain things, they might use a different pronunciation, they might use a different name and that just sticks,” Kihm says. “So, I think some amount of flexibility is really key here.”
Those spontaneous, toddler-coined names are often the most cherished. They reflect the unique bond between grandparent and grandchild.
“My son, Carson, started calling my dad ‘Papa’ when he learned to talk,” says Marissa Rapsik, of Aurora. “We were surprised because no one in our family used the term previously, but after he said it, it stuck, and we’ve been using it ever since. My dad loves it because it sets him apart and is a special connection to his little boys.”
Photo
Kid-Friendly Harvest Meals
Harvest Grain Bowls, Recipe on page 17
Fall is the perfect time to refresh your dinner routine with dinners that are comforting and seasonal.
Story by Melissa Koski Carney
AAs the leaves turn and the school year kicks into gear, fall in Northeast Ohio brings a variety of kid-approved ingredients like apples, sweet potatoes, squash and more. Whether you're juggling homework, extracurriculars or just trying to get everyone to the table at the same time, these five easy recipes will help you fit in a quick and nourishing meal that celebrates the flavors of fall.
Sweet Potato Black Bean Quesadillas
WHY IT’S GREAT: T hese are a favorite in our house because they’re a great way to use leftovers from the grain bowls on pg. 17 and are so customizable. My pickiest eater may turn his nose at black beans, but sometimes we can sneak in the sweet potato. My oldest calls these “fancy” quesadillas and enjoys them dipped in plain Greek yogurt or mashed avocado.
HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED:
1 medium-to-large sweet potato, diced and roasted
4 8-inch tortillas
8 ounces shredded cheddar or Colby Jack cheese
1 cup cooked black beans (about half of a 15-ounce can of black beans, rinsed)
HERE’S WHAT YOU DO: Heat a skillet on medium-to-medium-low heat. Lightly grease with olive oil. Place a tortilla on the skillet and spread with about 2 ounces of cheese. Spoon about 3/4 cup total of sweet potatoes, black beans and corn (about 1/4 cup of each) onto half of the tortilla. Fold the tortilla in half to cover the filling. Cook tortilla for about 4-5 minutes on each side. or until cheese is melted. Repeat for each tortilla. Let it cool a little, then cut into triangles and dip into your favorite sauce.
Apple Cinnamon Protein Pancakes
(MAKES 8 PANCAKES)
WHY IT’S GREAT: These pancakes are versatile — you can top them with anything from honey to peanut butter to fruit — and they are pleasing to babies and teens alike. Double the recipe if you want to have leftovers or are feeding hungry adolescents.
HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED:
1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
1 large egg
1/4 cup applesauce
3/4 cup cottage cheese
2 teaspoons cinnamon
1 teaspoon baking powder
3/4 cup shredded apples
Toppings: Cinnamon and sugar, honey and diced apples.
HERE’S WHAT YOU DO:
Add oats, egg, applesauce and cottage cheese to a food processor and blend until the batter is smooth. Remove from the blender and pour into a bowl. Fold in cinnamon, baking powder and shredded apples. Heat a nonstick griddle to medium-low and coat with butter. Fry pancakes (both sides) on the griddle until the edges start to brown. Serve warm and top with cinnamon and sugar, diced apples and drizzle of honey. Serve with a side of Greek yogurt.
Harvest Grain Bowls
(SERVES 4)
WHY IT’S GREAT: Kids can build their own bowls with grains, veggies and proteins, making it interactive, fun and customizable. You can prepare most of it ahead of time, so dinner is ready when you get home from work or before you head out to practice. This “recipe” is more of a choose-your-own adventure type of meal, where you can put together some of your favorite vegetables, proteins and grains to make your own bowl. Here’s what I recommend:
HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED:
3 cups cooked quinoa or farro
3-4 cups roasted vegetables, such as sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, butternut squash, cauliflower, broccoli, beets
2 cups protein of your choice, such as chopped grilled chicken, canned/ rinsed chickpeas, black beans
1 cup cheese, like feta or goat cheese
Dressing of your choice. (My favorite for this recipe is a Dijon vinaigrette)
HERE’S WHAT YOU DO: Prepare all ingredients and combine your favorites to make your own bowl. Top with the dressing of your choice. Enjoy! Makes about four servings of 3/4 cup grains plus toppings.
Butternut Squash Chicken Chili
(SERVES 6)
WHY IT’S GREAT: Kids can customize their chili with sour cream, Greek yogurt, cheese and their other favorite toppings. The vegetables blend in, so you can sneak them in for the pickiest eaters. The recipe can also be made ahead of time and reheated.
HERE’S WHAT YOU DO: Brown the ground chicken over olive oil. Season with about 1/3 of the chili powder and cumin as it cooks. After chicken is cooked, add squash, garlic, onion and pepper and the next third of the cumin and chili powder. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Add the can of tomatoes with chilies, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce and beans. Add the rest of the cumin and chili powder. Stir mixture to combine. Simmer the chili over mediumlow heat for about 30-40 minutes or until the squash is soft and fully cooked. Stir often so it doesn’t stick to the bottom. Serve with your favorite chili toppings.
We love leftovers in our house! Here are some ways to make sure nothing goes to waste: The grain bowl components can be tossed into salads or soups, or used in the quesadillas. The chili freezes well for future busy nights. Leftovers can also be eaten on top of leftover quinoa from the grain bowl. My oldest also enjoys leftover chili on top of pasta, Cincinnati style. The pancakes can be frozen and popped in the toaster for a fast breakfast. You can also make mini pancake sandwiches by using two pancakes instead of bread and filling them with peanut butter or peanut butter and jelly.
Family Fall Fun
Ongoing
THROUGH MID OCTOBER
Pick Your Own Apples. Pick some great Ohio apples and take a wagon ride. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Patterson Farms, 8765 Mulberry Road, Chesterland, pattersonfarm.com
THROUGH 10/5
Corn Maze: Paul Revere’s Run. Make your way through the corn maze to avoid the British Colonial Army and find the lanterns Revere used as a signal for the colonists. Lake Metroparks Farmpark, 8800 Euclid Chardon Road, Kirtland, lakemetroparks.com
THROUGH 11/2
U-Pick Apples & Fun Farm Activities. U-pick, maze and other activities. Weekends, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. 50336 Telegraph Road. Amherst, hillcrestfunfarm.com
Day-by-Day
9/5-6
Cleveland Oktoberfest. An exciting menu of activities and entertainment to delight young and old alike. Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds, 1 19201 E. Bagley Road, Middleburg Hts., clevelandoktoberfest.com
9/13-10/31
Pumpkin Days at Nickajack Farms. Pumpkin bowling, paintball and a wagon ride to the pumpkin patch. 11 a.m-7 p.m. 2955 Manchester Ave., Canal Fulton, nickajackfarms.com
9/16
Apple Harvest Celebration. Learn about apple harvesting through stories, games and crafts. Registration required. 6:30-8 p.m. Mentor Public Library, 8215 Mentor Ave., mentorpl.org
9/19-21
Elyria Apple Festival. Three days of family fun, food, entertainment, corn hole, children’s activities and more. Ely Square, Broad St. & Middle Ave., Elyria, elyriaapplefestival.com
Super Science
Saturday: Fall Fun. Take a look at the science of fall while having some fun. 10:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Akron Fossils & Science Center, 2080 S. Cleveland Massillon Road, Copley, akronfossils.com
9/20-21
Horsepower Weekend. Witness history unfolding from animal-powered agriculture to thunderous muscle cars. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Lake Metroparks Farmpark, 8800 Euclid Chardon Road, Kirtland, lakemetroparks.com
9/20, 9/27 & 10/4
Fall Festival. U-pick apples, live music, farm animals, pony rides and more. 8 a.m-5 p.m. Bauman Orchards, 161 Rittman Ave., Rittman, baumanorchards.com
9/27
Medina Fall Festival. Hay bale maze, pet parade, pumpkin painting, games, face painting and more. 9 a.m. -2 p.m. Medina’s Public Square, mainstreetmedina.com
9/27-28
Apple & Honey Harvest Weekend. Witness many traditional harvest activities, and discover how apple butter and cider are made, and learn about bees. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Lake Metroparks Farmpark, 8800 Euclid Chardon Rd., Kirtland, lakemetroparks.com
9/27-10/25
Pumpkin Pandemonium. Scavenger hunt, harvest maze, hayride and more. Heritage Farms, 6050 Riverview Road, Peninsula, heritagefarms.com
10/3-5
Norton Cider Festival. Apple decorating, train rides, inflatables, fireworks and more. Columbia Woods Park, 4060 Columbia Woods Dr., Norton, nortonciderfestival.com
10/3-25
Pumpkins and Ponies. Pony rides, horse rides, hayrides and more. Fridays and Saturdays. Spring Mist Farms, 691 Pearl Road, Brunswick Hills, springmistfarms.com
10/4-5
Hale Farm Harvest Festival. Experience the seasonal work of a 19th century farm like cider pressing and fermentation. 2686 Oak Hill Road, Bath, wrhs.org
10/10-11
Enchanted Forest. Meet costumed volunteers such as black bear, dirt, luna moth, and slug along the pumpkin-lit trails. 6:30-8:30 p.m. The Wilderness Center, 9877 Alabama Ave. SW, Wilmot, wildernesscenter.org
Fall Fun Places to Go
Camp Carl Summer Camp and Retreat Center
Experience Christ-centered, relationally focused, incredible fun at Camp Carl all year round. Its fall, winter and spring retreats are designed to develop spiritual community and connection with fun activities, refreshing sessions and delicious meals — all in a beautiful, spacious setting. More than 4,500 retreat guests and 2,800 summer campers experience personal growth, friendship and adventure at Camp Carl each year. 8054 Calvin Rd, Ravenna, 330-315-5665, campcarl.life
Lake Metroparks
In addition to protecting watersheds and open space, Lake Metroparks annually provides more than four million visitors with countless recreational and educational experiences at diverse facilities including an agriculturally-themed park, a nature center, state-ofthe-art education and wildlife rehabilitation center, two golf courses, six parks on Lake Erie’s shoreline and a cross-country ski center. With more than 60 miles of trails and 39 parks to explore, there’s plenty for you and your family to explore. 11211 Spear Rd., Concord Twp., 440-639-7275, lakemetroparks.com
Lorain County Metro Parks
Join the Lorain County Metro Parks to celebrate a half century of Halloween fun! The 50th Halloween Fair will be held October 10, 11, 17, 18, 25, and 26, with a special sensory-friendly, all-ability day on Thursday, October 9. Tickets go on-sale on September 23 at loraincountymetroparks.com/halloween Admission is $7 per person and available through presale only, no onsite ticket sales.
NickaJack Farms
Pumpkin Days at NickaJack Farms is open every day 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. from September 13 through October 31. Purchase your tickets online or at the door. Activities include wagon rides, corn maze, pony rides, animals, corn crib, peddle carts and much more. Interested in only pumpkins and decor? The perfect non-admission area is full of fall fun. The farm grows 75 varieties of pumpkins, gourds and squash. Mums, large and small straw bales, corn and corn stalk bundles available for sale. nickajackfarms.com
Olentangy Caverns | Olentangy Rock & Gem Shop
Explore a kid-friendly cave. Mine for gems. Start your rock collection at the rock and gem shop. Hunt for treasure in the maze. Play on the real fire truck at the playground, then walk the Bigfoot Walking Trail. Enjoy a round of mini-golf. Plus, visit goats, cows, pigs and deer at Columbus’s largest petting zoo. Open daily through October 31, locally-owned since 1935. Located just 10 minutes from the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. olentangycaverns.com
Patterson Fruit Farm
Patterson Farm hosts their Family Fun Fest, a young-family oriented creative farm outdoor play area, daily from Sept. 13 through Nov. 2 at 8765 Mulberry Road in Chesterland. Reached by a wagon ride, it includes a huge pavilion of straw, corn maze, climbing tractor, tree house, homemade go-carts, pumpkin painting, PYO apples and pumpkins available. Food concession on week-ends. Call 440-7297144 for updates on weather conditions and closings. Visit the Farm Market at 11414 Caves Road, open daily year round. pattersonfarm.com
Summit County Metro Parks
There are countless opportunities to celebrate the arrival of autumn with Summit Metro Parks. Watch lumberjack glitter (otherwise known as sawdust) fly at Fall Family Outing on October 4 from 2 to 7 p.m. at Munroe Falls Metro Park, 521 S River Rd, Munroe Falls. You’ll have the chance to watch lumberjacks and jills speed climb poles, perform springboard chops and more. Enjoy kids’ activities, food trucks, seasonal refreshments, hayrides, bonfires and other delights of the season. View this and other activities at summitmetroparks.org
Laying the Foundation: Fostering a Healthy, Self-Focused Relationship with Food and Body for Your Kids
By Valerie Nicholson, Adolescent Program Dietitian, The Emily Program
As parents, we know how sponge-like our children’s minds can really be. Even with offhanded comments, we can’t predict what will imprint in their brains for years to come. When it comes to food and body image, children and adolescents are not immune to the barrage of language we, as adults, experience and share through social interactions, television, and both print and social media.
In an era of nonstop diet rhetoric— and in this time when up to 50% of the population engages in disordered eating behaviors and at least 30 million will suffer from an eating disorder at some point in their lives—parents can serve as a safe space for helping kids build a foundational relationship with food and self, that is grounded in listening to their bodies and their needs.
First, when teaching about food, parents should aim for an objective, neutral stance which informs kids about the specific ways our bodies use it. For example, that protein makes our muscles grow, that carbohydrates and sugars give us energy, that fruits and vegetables contain vitamins that help us battle sicknesses, and that fats help our brains function. Avoid framing any foods as “good” or “bad,” and leading by example around how to use foods based on our body’s needs.
For example, saying “Wow, I’m going to be running a lot today – I should make sure to have plenty of water and maybe some pancakes to help fuel my energy!”
Secondly, when establishing this foundation, it’s important to separate kids’ value as a person from their appearance. Even when used encouragingly, repeating or overemphasizing sentiments like “You’re going to break hearts when you’re older,” or “Look how [thin/small/beautiful] you are, I wish I still looked like that,” can reinforce the idea that their appearance directly correlates to their value. When that is the case, kids can grow up to believe they need to maintain a certain appearance to be liked, respected, or loved. So, instead of overusing phrases like “You’re so cute,” evenly incorporate compliments and praise for traits like intelligence, kindness, creativity, honesty, generosity, athleticism, etc., in addition to appearance. Finally, avoid drawing correlations between food consumption and appearance, and rather, encourage kids to observe how foods make their minds, bodies, and selves feel rather than look – “drinking water is helping my headache go away,” or “eating cake makes me feel energetic,” and “eating steak makes me feel full and satisfied.”
Even if our own relationships with
Valerie is a Registered Dietitian with over a decade of experience in eating disorder treatment. For the past seven years she’s worked with The Emily Program, supporting clients in Ohio with compassionate, evidence-based nutrition care. Valerie is passionate about helping individuals rebuild a peaceful relationship with food.
food and our bodies aren’t perfect, parents should be mindful of perpetuating negativity around food and weight. For example, avoid saying things like “My arms look fat – I need to stick to my diet better,” or “Ugh, my jeans don’t fit – I’m cutting out carbs this week.” This isn’t to say you shouldn’t be open about your struggles – but instead, focus on things that are within your control, like, “I’ve been noticing myself comparing a lot, I think I need a break from social media this week,” or “My mind isn’t feeling its sharpest, I want to make sure I'm drinking lots of water and eating foods that are nutrient- and vitamin-dense.”
Ultimately, if kids are never taught to use food as a tool to manipulate appearance and are instead taught about food as a tool that informs how their bodies feel and function, diet culture won’t be nearly as impactful on them. As parents, we can’t shield them from all of the external toxicity they might come into contact with. However, we can provide them with a solid foundation and understanding to help them tune out the noise.
Reading for Meaning: Supporting Reading Comprehension Skills
By Dr. Jennifer Murphy
If you’re an elementary school parent in Ohio, you’ve likely been hearing a lot about the science of reading — a body of research that shows how children learn to read through evidence-based instruction in word recognition and language comprehension — thanks to Ohio’s dyslexia laws.
As we work with our children, we spend a lot of time helping them learn how to accurately read words. But our main goal isn’t just reading accurately. We also want to help them understand what they read.
COMPONENTS OF READING COMPREHENSION
If reading comprehension is the goal, what do we need to do to get there?
While decoding skills are very important, we don’t want to wait until students are fluent readers to work on comprehension. Starting early, we also need to focus on language comprehension skills that support understanding, even as children are still learning to read. These skills include things like:
• Background Knowledge. Your child’s understanding of the world. The more they know about how the world works, the easier it is to understand what they’re reading.
• Vocabulary. The words your child understands and uses. A rich vocabulary helps them understand what words mean in context.
• Language Structures. Understanding how sentences are put together helps children follow more complex texts.
• Verbal Reasoning. The way your child thinks about and understands what words mean can help them make inferences, solve riddles, get jokes, and understand figurative language.
• Literacy Knowledge. Knowing how books and written language work, like recognizing story elements and understanding how different genres are organized, helps children make sense of what they’re reading.
READING COMPREHENSION STRATEGIES TO USE AT HOME
With intentional moments, you can create experiences that help build the language skills needed for strong reading comprehension over time.
• Notice Print in the Environment. For young children, point out and talk about familiar signs, labels and logos they see in everyday life. Rec ognizing environmental print helps them understand that words carry meaning.
• Read Aloud to Your Child your child can read independently, reading aloud helps model fluent reading, exposes them to more complex language, and gives you an opportunity to connect.
• Talk About the Books You’re Reading. Reading aloud to your child is fun, but don’t stop there. Talk about what you’re reading. Ask your child questions and discuss new vocabulary words.
• Model Your Thinking. Let your child know how you make sense of what you read. Talk through your process about how you made an inference, visualized a scene, or summarized the story.
• Highlight Similarities and Differences. Encourage your child to compare and contrast characters, events, settings, or vocabulary words. You can also support their understanding by helping them group related ideas into categories.
Not only can these strategies help build the language comprehension your child needs to be a strong reader, but they will also build emotional connections with positive reading experiences — and with you.
• Build Background Knowledge. Expose your child to new ideas and information. Watch a documentary, visit a new place, talk about current events, or choose a read aloud on an unfamiliar topic.
Dr. Jennifer Murphy is an independently licensed school psychologist and the Director of Assessment at Achievement Advantage Assessment & Services. She specializes in psychoeducational assessments, focusing on learning differences and executive functioning. Dr. Murphy also volunteers on the advisory council of the Northern Ohio Branch of the International Dyslexia Association (NOBIDA).
Dealing With ELEMENTARY SCHOOL FRIENDSHIPS
By Aisha Taylor
Elementary school friendships are far more than just play — they are crucial building blocks for a child’s social and emotional development. Yet, these early connections often present complex challenges for both kids and parents. So, how can families navigate the world of elementary school friendships?
FRIENDSHIPS EVOLVE AND CHANGE
Friendships change significantly as children grow. Elizabeth Viiberg, a therapist and licensed social worker, says, “When you’re itty bitty, friendships are more about shared toys and space, rather than attachment and shared interests. In elementary school, friendships become more selective, a little more stable, and have greater emotional investment as they gain more complex social-emotional and critical thinking skills.”
As kids mature, their interests shift, and sometimes friends move away. This can be difficult for children still learning to manage big emotions.
Samantha Good, a perinatal and nutrition specialized psychotherapist, suggests framing this by explaining that friendships
often last “for a reason, a season, or a lifetime. Very few friendships fall into that last category, and that’s perfectly OK.”
Parents can support their children by validating their feelings and teaching them how to grieve these changes. Feeling sad or unsettled about evolving friendships is natural and OK.
Good recommends parents model resilience in their own relationships and by sharing experiences with evolving friendships. This helps children understand that change is a normal part of life, and that the kindness and skills they develop through friendships are what truly last.
NAVIGATING FRIENDSHIP DIFFICULTIES
Most human relationships face challenges, and elementary school friendships are no different.
Viiberg notes a significant gap in social skill development due to the pandemic, which now impacts current friendships. This comes in addition to the “extraordinary amount of emotional growth that brings about new challenges.”
“For example, elementary friendships have a bigger influence on identity than
earlier relationships,” she says. “This is the first time exclusion, peer pressure, friendship breakups, etc. Top all that with different parenting styles, can easily lead to miscommunication and hurt feelings.”
Good highlights common challenges she observes: “exclusive ‘best friend’ dynamics, misunderstandings due to developing social awareness, and learning how to manage emotions like jealousy or disappointment.”
She adds that children at this age often exhibit all-or-nothing thinking, which is developmentally appropriate. For instance, a child might get stuck believing she can only have one friend. If that friend decides not to play with her one day, the child might conclude they’re no longer best friends. This can trigger friendship jealousy, insecurity, and even low self-esteem.
Good emphasizes that young elementary school children lack the “cognitive development, frontal lobe processing to say, ‘Joey probably just wanted to play with Sally today, and it’s not a big deal. I can play with Joey tomorrow.’”
She’s seen a significant rise in insecurity and low self-esteem at younger ages.
“Many kids today seem to struggle with a lack of social skills and confidence, which can make it harder for them to initiate or maintain friendships,” she adds. “I’m seeing children internalize negative self-beliefs much sooner — things like ‘I’m not good enough’ or ‘no one wants to play with me.’”
THE IMPACT OF SOCIAL MEDIA ON FRIENDSHIPS Technology and social media are increasingly part of many children’s lives, even at the elementary level. While these tools can help kids stay connected,
they also bring challenges. Viiberg wants parents to understand that technology is a privilege, not owed. It’s OK to place limits, expect responsible use, and set clear expectations for behavior online.
Drawing from her work with teens, Good has seen how social media can become overwhelming or toxic. For younger children, she gently encourages parents to delay introducing technology and social media for as long as possible to support healthy development.
“We aren’t naturally designed for nonstop, surface-level interactions, and this can affect their ability to think critically, impact their self-esteem, and stir up feelings like envy,” she says. “If you think about how social media can affect you as an adult, it’s even more intense for a child whose brain and emotions are still growing.”
Technology can be a helpful tool when used thoughtfully. Parents should stay involved by knowing what their kids are doing online, having open conversations about their experiences, and teaching values like kindness and empathy both online and offline.
Good recommends parents set clear boundaries around screen time and make space for face-to-face interactions. While this may feel overwhelming, she encourages parents that, “It’s possible that technology can support friendships instead of getting in the way. It’s all about balance and thoughtful involvement.”
KEY SIGNS OF HEALTHY VS. UNHEALTHY FRIENDSHIPS
As elementary school children grow, it’s important for them to recognize the signs of both healthy and unhealthy friendships. Viiberg notes that children she works with identified indicators of healthy friendships as: kind words and actions, similar interests, being helpful or supportive, honesty, respect for their things, safe hands and body, listening, being a shoulder for tears, taking turns, and respecting their words. Conversely, unhealthy friendships, according to these children, include: not listening, being unable to handle emotions, selfishness, and hurtful behavior.
“Unhealthy friendships often involve a subtle but consistent power imbalance where one child is always in control,” Good says. “Your child feels anxious before interactions or she comes home feeling small, excluded, or confused by repeated ‘jokes’ at her expense.”
Sometimes children will try to earn friendship by going along with things that
don’t feel good, or they’ll be afraid to say no.
“That’s when it starts to move into unhealthy territory,” she adds.
HOW PARENTS CAN HELP
Awareness is key. If you notice your child’s friendship trending toward unhealthy, trust your parental gut. If something feels off, it probably is.
“Be a safe, calm place for your child to talk, and then help them isolate what’s not feeling right,” Good says. “Sometimes, it’s easier for kids to see it clearly when they’re taken out of the situation.”
She recommends asking questions like:
“If Mommy said that to you, how would you feel?”“If you saw Daddy (or someone else) talk to me that way, what would your body do?”These small role-plays can help children identify uncomfortable dynamics without feeling defensive. If a friendship is veering into harmful territory.
“Help kids name the behavior, express how it makes them feel, and state what they want to be different,” Good says. “When children feel empowered to use their voice, they’re less likely to tolerate mistreatment.”
When a child feels left out, it’s particularly tough.
“As a mom, our instinct is to jump in and fix it to protect our kids from pain,” Good says. “That’s only natural.”
However, she cautions against sending the message that sadness or disappointment are emotions to avoid, as this can hinder resilience.
“This is where emotional regulation and distress tolerance skills come into play,” she says. “Helping kids learn to sit with difficult emotions, name them, and process them gives them lifelong tools.”
Good emphasizes the importance of not being a helicopter parent or a social engineer when it comes to friendships.
“Kids need space to navigate social dynamics and learn from their own experiences,” she says. “That said, parents should always be a listening ear and offer suggestions when asked.”
ESTABLISHING BOUNDARIES AND FORGIVENESS
Boundaries are crucial for friendships and in life. To teach children about boundaries, parents can explain that they are rules and limits we set to protect ourselves within relationships — including body safety.
“While boundaries are important, flexibility allows you to adapt and grow, creating healthier connections with others,” Viiberg says. Assertiveness skills balance
rigid and porous boundaries, helping a person create healthy boundaries that respect both their own needs and the needs of others. Role-playing, stories, books, and media are excellent visual aids. It’s important to have a communication plan, such as the Trusted Circle approach (identifying 3-5 adults they can turn to) or creating a “Friend’s House Safety Checklist.”
Safety is the non-negotiable boundary.
“If your child is not emotionally safe, or if you notice signs of depression or distress, it’s time to step in,” Good says, adding that for younger children, she encourages reaching out to other parents to work through challenges together.
While ending a friendship can be difficult, Good adds. “It’s also OK, and sometimes necessary, to help kids walk away from friendships that aren’t healthy.”
However, it’s equally important to teach them to stick it out when conflicts are just misunderstandings.
“In today’s culture, where ‘canceling’ is common, we risk teaching kids to cut ties too quickly instead of working through tough emotions or disagreements,” she says. “I’ll never encourage anyone to stay in an unsafe relationship, but it’s also vital to pause, listen, and try to understand the other person’s heart before deciding to walk away.”
Nicole Levy, executive director of Luther Memorial School, highlights the importance of actively teaching and practicing reconciliation.
“Giving them the words to say is one thing, but helping them to understand that forgiveness doesn’t just make the hurt go away is an important part of it, too,” she says.
Levy emphasizes that “forgiveness is something that we do even if it is something that we don’t feel right away. It can take time and effort to move past being hurt.”
It’s also important in reconciliation for children to learn how to make a meaningful apology if they wronged another person and understand what they are apologizing for.
WHEN A CHILD STRUGGLES TO MAKE FRIENDS
Every child is different, and it’s natural for parents to worry when their child prefers solitude or isn’t as outgoing as others. “If your child isn’t showing signs of depression or anxiety, there’s usually no cause for concern,” Good says.
Many children thrive with smaller social circles or solitary play, and that’s perfectly healthy. Regularly check in with your child about how he feels in social settings. Most
importantly, respect your child’s unique temperament and pace. Pushing too hard can increase anxiety and resistance. The goal is to offer support, create opportunities, and provide acceptance, helping your child build meaningful connections on his own terms.
MODEL HEALTHY BEHAVIOR
Viiberg reminds parents, “You can’t teach your kids what you don’t know.” If parents struggle with emotional regulation, communication or conflict resolution, their children likely will, too, as “behavior is learned.” Therefore, learning how to react with intentionality and responsiveness instead of on autopilot is an important skill.
“A calm and curious response will always yield a better outcome than a knee-jerk reaction driven by stress or habit,” she advises.
“As parents, we can model good communication and gently guide them through tricky moments, helping them learn how to resolve conflicts and offering comfort when they’re sad or grieving,” Good says. She acknowledges that it won’t be perfect, and “that’s OK. They’re learning, just like we all do, but with a developing brain and limited life experience.”
Her final advice is to “allow children to experience the ups and downs of friendship with gentle support, rather than stepping in to fix everything. Patience and compassion, for your child and yourself, are key, as these early lessons set the stage for all future relationships. Your role is to support, not control, by listening, modeling kindness and offering guidance when needed.”
TECH SAFETY for Elementary Kids
By Shana O’Malley-Smith
Finding the right technology for elementary-aged kids can be a balancing act —parents want devices that are educational and engaging, but also safe, age-appropriate and easy to manage.
From devices with built-in parental controls to smartwatches that encourage independence while keeping families connected, here are some of the best tech tools that support learning and creativity while giving parents peace of mind.
AMAZON FIRE KIDS PRO TABLET
Features built-in safeguards that protect your children’s privacy and prevent malware and spyware, ensuring a safe and secure online experience. Kids can enjoy ad-free videos, games, apps, books and interactive experiences that help kids play, create and learn. amazon.com
VERIZON GIZMO WATCH
Only parent-approved contacts can call or text your child’s watch, and the watch can’t access any internet content. Use the GizmoHub app on your phone to easily keep up on your child’s location on the map. With an SOS button, voice and video calling, and text messaging, staying in touch with your child is as close as their wrist. And now, Gizmo Watch 3 includes a touchscreen keyboard for kids to type precisely what they want to say in their messages. verizon.com
GABB PHONE
With no social media or internet access, smart message filtration, and GPS tracking, it’s the phone that keeps your kids connected, not addicted. gabb.com
SPOTIFY KIDS APP
Enjoy kid-friendly content handpicked just for them. Listen to music, audiobooks and more. Available with the Spotify premium family subscription. spotify.com
ECHO DOT KIDS
Kids can ask Alexa to play music, read a bedtime story, get help with their homework, stream songs and more. Alexa will automatically give kid-friendly responses and filter explicit songs. You can also set daily time limits and review activity in the Amazon Parent Dashboard. amazon.com
JBL KIDS WIRELESS HEADPHONES
These Bluetooth enabled safe sound headphones are designed to never exceed 85db making them safe for even the youngest music fans. Plus, child-friendly control buttons make it easy and safe for children to operate. various retailers
Grades 7-12 School Open House Sunday, October 26 - 12:30-2:30 p.m. Optional Information session - 11 a.m. - noon
Students and families interested in the Upper and Middle School (Grades 7-12) can attend an optional information session from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. in The Lorraine and Bill Dodero Center for Performing Arts. Beginning at 12:30 p.m., you will have the opportunity to speak with current faculty, administrators and families, learn more about tuition assistance, tour campus with a student ambassador and meet the athletic coaches. Join for either portion or both.
Gilmour Academy is home to students from 18 months to 18 years and its mission is to educate the mind and empower the heart of every student. Founded by the Brothers of Holy Cross, Gilmour encourages students of all faiths to ask tough questions, think critically and grow spiritually. Following the independent school model, Gilmour’s small class sizes and variety of real-world learning opportunities provide a personalized education for every student. Through a rigorous academic program, religious studies, social service and an emphasis on leadership, Gilmour educates the whole person.
Gilmour’s Montessori Toddler and preschool programs promote self-directed learning and an interdisciplinary approach, teaching children how to learn instead of just what to learn. Students in Gilmour’s Lower School (traditional Kindergarten - Grade 6) learn to formulate their own ideas and questions about the world around them. Class activities range from working in the greenhouse, to researching ways to reduce energy consumption, building houses to scale from blueprints they’ve created, and learning to play a variety of musical instruments.
At Gilmour’s Middle School, seventh and eighth graders are afforded every opportunity to explore new passions and develop their talents in an individualized learning environment. They may take advanced courses at the
Upper School and join their older peers in a variety of club offerings, making for a smooth transition into high school.
Upper School students benefit from a wide range of electives — from molecular genetics and forensic science to digital marketing and entrepreneurship — as well as unique real-world experiences. One standout opportunity is the semester-long science research internship, which places students alongside industry professionals in a professional lab setting.
Gilmour also offers the VECTOR program, a signature academic track that combines coursework, mentoring and professional networking in areas such as engineering, entrepreneurship and civic engagement. VECTOR students graduate with a robust portfolio and real-world experience aligned with their passions.
As both an independent and Catholic school, Gilmour inspires students to realize that they have both the talent and the responsibility to make the world a better place. Ranked the #1 Catholic high school in Northeast Ohio by niche.com, at Gilmour, we know If you educate the mind and empower the heart, students do more than succeed - they thrive.
37501 Center Ridge Road, North Ridgeville 440-327-1175
lakeridgeacademy.org
K-12 Preview Days: September 19, November 14, and April 17
Enrollment: 400
Grades served: Jr. K-12
Student to teacher ratio: 8:1
Tuition: $11,600-$22,000
Power Points:
The Only Jr. K-12 Private School on Cleveland’s West Side
Lake Ridge Academy is a unique educational oasis on a stunning 93-acre campus in North Ridgeville. Students from over 35 communities and 13 countries flock here for our exceptional learning experience, where relationships, wellness, and belonging are at the heart of everything we do.
Small Classes, Big Impact
Our commitment to small classes and exceptional teachers means your child will receive personal attention and a deep understanding of their unique learning style. Our teachers are passionate about their subjects and dedicated to inspiring a love of learning.
A Community of Learners
Lake Ridge Academy isn’t just a school; it’s a community. Our students have the opportunity to interact with peers from all grade levels, fostering leadership, collaboration, and lifelong friendships.
Academic Excellence Meets Individual Needs
We believe every student is an individual with unique abilities, strengths, and interests. Our rigorous curriculum is designed to challenge and inspire, while our personal approach ensures each student can reach their full potential.
• 100% of graduates attend a four-year college or university
• 73% of students receive financial aid
• Students travel from 35 communities and 13 countries to attend Lake Ridge
Beyond the Classroom
At Lake Ridge Academy, we believe in a wellrounded education. Our beautiful campus offers a serene setting for exploration and discovery, while our extracurricular programs cater to various interests, from athletics and arts to STEM and community service.
A Place Where Everyone Belongs
We’re committed to creating a supportive and inclusive environment where every student feels valued and respected. Our focus on wellness, both physical and emotional, ensures that our students can thrive academically and socially.
Ready to Join Our Community?
Discover why Lake Ridge Academy is the perfect choice for your child. Schedule a tour today at lakeridgeacademy.org/admissions/visit.
• 93-acre campus 25 miles outside of Cleveland
• The class of 2025 received over $9.4 million in merit scholarships
• 70% of the class of 2025 was accepted to their top-choice school
• Five Graduation Certificate programs offered, including Business and Entrepreneurship, Fine Arts, Global and International Studies, Engineering and Innovation, and Scientific Research.
School
CREATIVE PLAYROOMS
CONSTELLATION SCHOOLS
More than academics — A place for them to shine. Imagine your child’s educational journey beginning in a place of pure joy and belonging. At Constellation Schools: Parma Community Day Drive Elementary & Parma Community Pearl Road Elementary they believe in more than academics. Their caring teachers and hands-on learning nurture students’ spirits, creating a safe haven where curiosity blossoms. They help students learn, grow and confidently be their best selves, ready for a lifetime of learning. Visit constellationschools.com
Creative Playrooms Mon-
tessori and Child Care Centers provide children with a strong foundation for their lifelong learning journey. Their gifted educators inspire children to develop a love for learning, focusing on the development of each child — physically, emotionally and cognitively — through both traditional and play-based Montessori approaches. As an award-winning provider with six locations and 50+ years of experience in the Cleveland area, Creative Playrooms offers a variety of programs for infants through school-age children. Visit creativeplayrooms.com
GILMOUR ACADEMY
As an independent and Catholic school, Gilmour is uniquely able to educate the mind and the heart of every student. After beginning their personalized academic journey at Gilmour’s Lower School, students transition seamlessly to the Middle School. There, seventh and eighth graders explore new passions, continue their faith journey and develop their talents in a highly individualized learning environment. They are also able to take advanced courses at the Upper School, making for a smooth transition into high school. gilmour.org
HAWKEN SCHOOL
Hawken’s Lower School program embodies the school’s dual commitment to academic excellence and social-emotional growth. Students develop a strong foundation in core skills while learning to be more independent and responsible. Recent renovations support not only Hawken’s commitment to truly knowing each student as a learner and individual, but also the school’s evolving personalized learning model. Each grade-level cluster features a learning commons to support flexible grouping, differentiated instruction, and collaborative, project-based experiences. hawken.edu
LAKE RIDGE ACADEMY
Lake Ridge Academy is the only independent college preparatory school on Cleveland’s West Side. Its Jr. K-12 co-educational curriculum offers a unique blend of rigorous academics, extracurricular activities, and a focus on wellness and character development. With a student-teacher ratio of 8:1, their devoted faculty provides personal attention to help every student thrive. Come visit the 93-acre campus and see the Lake Ridge difference. The next Preview Day is September 19. Register at lakeridgeacademy.org
MENLO PARK ACADEMY
Menlo Park Academy is the state’s only tuition-free school for gifted children in kindergarten through eighth grade. The school offers an innovative, accelerated curriculum, including nine high-school-credit classes, the opportunity to learn alongside like-minded peers and a faculty dedicated to meeting the unique needs of gifted children. Students can explore their passions, build friendships and find belonging, as well as academic and social-emotional success. Menlo Park Academy is the #1 charter elementary, #1 charter middle school, ranked #13 of all kindergarten through fifth grade Ohio public schools (niche.com). menloparkacademy.com
PAINESVILLE
CHRISTIAN ACADEMY
Painesville Christian Academy provides a safe, nurturing, and Christ-centered environment where children grow academically, spiritually and socially. Its dedicated staff fosters a love for learning through hands-on experiences, structured curriculum and faith-based values. From preschool to school-age care, it partners with families to develop confident, compassionate learners. Discover the difference a Christian education can make — enroll today and watch your child thrive at Painesville Christian Academy.
painesvillechristianacademy.com
SPRING GARDEN WALDORF SCHOOL
Spring Garden Waldorf School is one of
only two accredited Waldorf schools in Ohio, and has been educating children from the surrounding five-county area for 44 years. Families come to Waldorf education because they’re ready for something different. Their curriculum challenges students with hands-on learning, critical thinking and creative expression. By engaging the whole child with a multi-disciplinary approach, they nurture a lifelong passion for learning. Discover education that engages, inspires and empowers. sgws.org
ST. HILARY SCHOOL
The Future Begins Here. St. Hilary School in Fairlawn serves students in grades K-8 in a faith-based environment with a curriculum that challenges and accommodates diverse learning abilities. The average student-teacher ratio is 20:1. Special offerings include Spanish, French, Chinese, religion, art, music, physical education, technology, advanced math and enrichment opportunities. Many extracurricular activities, as well as auxiliary, remedial, clinic, lunch and extended care services, are available. 645 Moorfield Road, Fairlawn, 330-867-8720, ext. 343, st-hilaryschool.org
SAINT JOAN OF ARC CATHOLIC SCHOOL K-8
Best-in-class academics, vibrant programming in technology, science, music and life skills, a safe and secure campus in the heart of Chagrin Falls, and a community of faith that is actually part of a parish — St. Joan of Arc School is everything your student needs to develop a lifelong love of learning and grow as a person of faith. St. Joan of Arc School. Driven by excellence. Guided by faith. stjoanofarc.org
UNIVERSITY SCHOOL
At University School, each boy is free and supported to let his true self thrive. The faculty at University School are invested in every boy’s interests, his mental and emotional health, as well as his academic development. Built to match how boys learn best, their renovated and expanded Middle School building opened in Fall 2025. US is ranked Ohio’s No. 1 Private K–12 School by Niche. Its Open House is November 2. Learn more at us.edu/visit
WESTLAKE ACADEMY
Serving grades K–2, Westlake Academy offers a nurturing, family-first environment where every child is known, supported and celebrated. Located alongside Creative Playrooms, the school provides wraparound care and enrichment — from world languages to STEM to movement — all rooted in multicultural, whole-child learning. With joyful school traditions, a positive behavior system, and a welcoming culture, Westlake Academy is where young students take confident first steps in their educational journey. accelschools.com
C OMMU N I T Y FOCU S Su mmit Co.
By Denise Koeth
Nestled in the heart of Northeast Ohio, Summit County is a dynamic destination that blends the energy of a big city with the charm of small-town life. Whether you’re raising a family there or just visiting for the day, there’s something for everyone: lush parks and scenic trails for nature lovers, interactive museums and play spaces for curious kids, and a thriving arts and culture scene that offers both fun and enrichment.
From the urban charm of Akron to the peaceful beauty of the Cuyahoga Valley, Summit County offers a surprising mix of adventure, learning and relaxation — all in one family-friendly package. Check out these highlights to plan a visit or explore your own backyard further.
URBAN CHARM, FAMILY FUN
Centrally located within Summit County, Akron offers families a big city experience at a budget-friendly price. Compared to larger metro areas, the city offers a lower cost of living while still providing access to quality schools, healthcare and family amenities. From neighborhood festivals like PorchRokr and Taste of Akron, plus outdoor movies and farmers markets, Akron’s tight-knit communities create welcoming spaces where families feel connected.
IN THE DOWNTOWN AREA, FAMILIES CAN ENJOY THE FOLLOWING HOT SPOTS:
The Akron Art Museum (akronartmuseum.org) is a family-friendly gem that offers free admission to children ages 17 and younger, and free admission to all every Thursday. Interactive fun includes drop-in Family Days, Mess Makers, “Art Babes” and creative open-studio stations. With sensory guides, activity bingo, and tactile “Touch Points” throughout, it’s educational, inclusive and endlessly engaging for all ages.
The Akron Children’s Museum (akronkids.org) is a hands-on space that’s perfect for families. With 25+ interactive STEAM exhibits — including Lego derby car races, rocket-launch zones, obstacle courses, sensory rooms, art studios and more — it inspires curiosity, creativity and bonding in a bright, welcoming destination.
The Akron Civic Theatre (akroncivic.com) is a stunning family-friendly destination. Built in 1929 and fashioned after a Moorish castle, the theatre features a twinkling star-lit sky and drifting clouds over its auditorium, offering a magical escape for kids and adults alike. Its live shows, musicals and sensory-rich architecture create a memorable experience for every visitor.
The Akron Zoo (akronzoo.org) offers families an up-close look at wildlife from around the world in a walkable setting. From majestic snow leopards to playful otters, the zoo’s thoughtfully designed habitats spark curiosity and connection. Its manageable size, engaging exhibits and seasonal family events ensure a perfect day out for all ages.
Canal Park, home of the Akron RubberDucks (akronrubberducks.com) — the Double-A affiliate of the Cleveland Guardians — offers families a fun and affordable way to enjoy America’s pastime. With kid-friendly activities, lively theme nights and occasional post-game fireworks, it’s more than just baseball — it’s a downtown Akron tradition full of energy and charm.
EJ Thomas Hall (uakron.edu/ej) is Akron’s premier performing arts venue, seating nearly 3,000 and showcasing everything from Broadway tours to symphony concerts in soaring, adjustable-acoustic spaces. Families love it for its diverse, high-quality programming — concerts, lectures, youth orchestra performances and more — that create shared moments of entertainment and inspiration.
Set on the historic Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath in the middle of downtown, Lock 3 (downtownakron.com) hosts concerts, festivals, outdoor movie nights and lawn games perfect for all ages during the summer. When winter rolls in, the park transforms into a festive wonderland with Ohio’s largest outdoor ice rink, bumper cars, ice bikes and more.
COURTESY OF SUMMIT METRO PARKS
ESCAPE INTO NATURE
Summit County offers families a wealth of opportunities to get outside and explore.
With more than 16 parks and over 150 miles of trails, Summit Metro Parks (summitmetroparks.org) is a highlight for locals and visitors alike. From wooded hikes to playgrounds and picnic shelters, each park has its own unique appeal. Visit the F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm in Akron for interactive exhibits, paved trails, a suspension bridge, and tranquil gardens. For more rugged adventures, try the forested trails at Furnace Run or Cascade Valley, where kids can spot wildlife and explore creeks and ravines. Don’t miss the Fall Hiking Spree, a popular local tradition that encourages families to explore multiple trails and earn a hiking staff or shield.
Just north of Akron, Cuyahoga Valley National Park (nps.gov/cuva) offers wide-open green space, scenic waterfalls, and miles of trails. Families can hike the Brandywine Gorge Trail or explore the marsh boardwalks at Beaver Marsh, a great spot for birdwatching. The Towpath Trail follows the historic Ohio & Erie Canalway (ohioanderiecanalway.com) and is ideal for walking, biking and spotting turtles sunning themselves on logs.
For fun on the water, head to Portage Lakes State Park (ohiodnr.gov), where families can swim at the beach, rent a paddleboat or kayak, and enjoy lunch at a lakeside picnic table. As temperatures drop, look for local events like fall festivals, nature crafts, and campfire nights hosted in or near the park.
Boston Mills and Brandywine Ski Resorts
Located within Cuyahoga Valley National Park, these neighboring resorts feature 18 trails suitable for all skill levels, from gentle beginner slopes to challenging runs like Boston Mills’ “Tiger,” Ohio’s steepest slope. For beginners, the Ski & Ride School provides group and private lessons for all ages. Equipment rentals are available on-site, ensuring a hassle-free experience. Families also can enjoy the Polar Blast Snow Tubing Park, offering 20 lanes of tubing excitement. bmbw.com
HISTORY & ARTS
Summit County blends rich history with a vibrant arts scene, offering families a variety of ways to learn, explore and be inspired. From historic estates and handson museums to live theater and world-class music, there’s something for every age and interest.
Set in the rolling hills of Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Blossom Music Center (blossommusic.com) is the summer home of The Cleveland Orchestra (clevelandorchestra.com) and also hosts popular concerts and festivals. Families can enjoy world-class music under the stars with spacious lawn seating perfect for picnics. The Cleveland Orchestra’s Under 18s Free program makes it a memorable and affordable cultural outing for all ages.
Step back in time at a living history museum in the heart of the Cuyahoga Valley. Hale Farm & Village (halefarm.org) brings the 1800s to life with costumed interpreters, working farm animals, historic buildings, and artisan demonstrations like blacksmithing and candle-making. Seasonal events and hands-on experiences make it a great educational stop for kids.
Located in Barberton, Magical Theatre Company (magicaltheatre.org) specializes in professional live performances for young audiences. The intimate theater setting and age-appropriate productions — from fairy tales to thought-provoking plays for teens — create a welcoming introduction to the performing arts. Educational workshops, summer camps and school matinees are also part of its outreach.
Located at the Akron-Canton Airport, the MAPS Air Museum (mapsairmuseum.org) is a hands-on destination for aviation enthusiasts of all ages where kids can climb into cockpits, view artifacts and experience the stories behind the planes. Families can explore over 50 aircraft, from fighter jets to helicopters, and learn about military history through interactive exhibits and veteran-guided tours.
Built in 1915, Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens (stanhywet.org) is a grand, 65-room Tudor Revival mansion that was once home to Goodyear co-founder F.A. Seiberling. Families can tour the historic home, stroll through 70 acres of lush gardens, and enjoy interactive exhibits in the Gate Lodge. Seasonal events like the fall-themed Ohio Mart and the festive Deck the Hall holiday lights make Stan Hywet a must-see year-round.
A beloved Akron institution, Weathervane Playhouse (weathervaneplayhouse.com) offers a mix of community theater, musicals and youth productions year-round. With a focus on family-friendly programming, it’s a great place to introduce kids to the stage — either from the audience or through classes and camps. Its seasonal shows, including holiday favorites, are local traditions.
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Cuyahoga
Valley Scenic Railroad
Ride the rails for a fun and relaxing way to explore Cuyahoga Valley National Park with your family. Hop aboard the National Park Scenic ride for beautiful views and wildlife spotting. During the holiday season, the train gets decked out for the North Pole Adventure, which features Santa, hot cocoa and storytime. Other family favorites include the Family Fun Loop with crafts and themed characters, and the Maple Sugar Express during spring. With rides that combine nature, history and holiday magic, the railroad is a must-do for families year-round. cvsr.org
COURTESY OF AKRON ART MUSEUM
COURTESY OF AKRON CHILDREN’S MUSEUM
COURTESY OF AKRON ZOO
COURTESY OF MAGICAL THEATRE COMPANY
COURTESY OF SUMMIT METRO PARKS
COURTESY OF CUYAHOGA VALLEY SCENIC RAILROAD
KID-FOCUSED FUN
When children need to move, bounce, splash or play, Summit County delivers with indoor thrills, outdoor excitement, and plenty of places to burn off energy. Score extra points with your kiddos by planning a stop at one of the following spots:
Akron Fossils & Science Center — Dig into hands-on exhibits, fossil replicas, and even walk a prehistoric “nature trail” at this interactive museum in Copley. akronfossils.org
Fun ‘n’ Stuff — Go-karts, mini golf, laser tag, and arcade games make this indoor-outdoor spot in Macedonia a kid favorite year-round. fun-n-stuff.com
Get Air Trampoline Park — Wall-to-wall trampolines, foam pits and a ninja course let kids bounce off energy in the best way at this Akron location. getairsports.com/akron
Magic City Drive-In Theater — During fair weather months, catch a double feature under the stars at this classic drive-in with popcorn, retro vibes and family-friendly flicks. magiccitydrive-in.com
Sky Zone — From dodgeball to freestyle jumps, this trampoline park in Boston Heights delivers high-flying fun for kids and teens alike. skyzone.com
Urban Air — Bounce, climb and soar through obstacle courses, trampolines and a sky rider zip line at this indoor adventure park in Copley. urbanair.com
Water Works Family Aquatic Center — Zoom down waterslides, float the lazy river, or splash in the zero-depth entry pool to achieve summer fun for all ages at this Cuyahoga Falls hot spot. cityofcf.com/places/water-works
Finding a Forever Home in Summit County
By Denise Koeth
For Britt Andrews Petro and her husband, Artie Petro, Summit County offers the perfect combination of family-friendly entertainment, important amenities and a close-knit neighborhood feel.
The couple currently is raising their three children — ages 10, 7 and 4 — in Bath, although they’ve lived in Summit County for 19 years, since graduating from Kent State University.
“We love that we get that small neighborhood feel with the convenience of all of the amenities of Fairlawn just around the corner,” Andrews Petro says. “We have sidewalks, the local primary school is just up the road, we have a great community of neighbors — and yet we are so close to an abundance of shopping, restaurants, grocery stores and more.”
Some of her family’s favorite area hot spots include Szalay’s Farm & Market, Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail, and the F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm. Strickland’s Frozen Custard and Skyway Drive-In Restaurant are favorite food stops with the kids in tow.
“In downtown Akron, we have enjoyed the Akron Children’s Museum, Stan Hywet Hall’s children’s play area, the kids programming and RubberDucks games, and the Akron Zoo (including the Wild Lights and Boo at the Zoo events),” Andrews Petro says. “During the holiday season, we have enjoyed the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad’s North Pole Adventure train ride and the Nutcracker performance at Akron Civic Theatre.”
Good school ratings, access to parks and top-notch health care have also kept the Petro family in Summit County.
“We appreciate that Akron Children’s Hospital is close and we don’t always need to go to Cleveland for great pediatric care,” Andrews Petro says. “We have had positive experiences with their NICU staff and several specialists.”
Andrews Petro says that first moving to Summit county for her husband’s job nearly two decades ago turned out to be a lucky coincidence: “We weren’t specifically looking to move to this area. We kind of accidentally ended up in this area, but ended up loving it.”
THE PETRO FAMILY, FROM LEFT: ARTIE; HAZEL, 7; EVERETT, 4; WYATT, 10; AND BRITT.
COURTESY OF SKY ZONE
September Calendar
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Discover, Explore & Fun Days!
9/7
Bug Day. Bring the kids for a free afternoon of bug activities, crafts, games and more. 12-4 p.m. Penitentiary Glen Reservation, 8668 Kirtland Chardon Road, Kirtland, lakemetroparks.com
9/12-13
Ohio Space Week: Discovery Days. Learn how NASA Glenn works to transform aviation, revolutionize space exploration and inspire new discoveries. Great Lakes Science Center, 601 Erieside Ave., Cleveland, greatscience.com
9/20-21
Chalk Festival. Children and adults join professional artists to create a color canvas on the walkways around the Fine Arts Garden. 12-5 p.m. The Cleveland Museum of Art, Fine Arts Garden, 11150 East Blvd., cleveland-art.org
Pick - A - Day
SUNDAYS
Family FUNday. Family-friendly games, movement-based activities, art and more. First Sunday of each month. 1-4 p.m. Community Arts Center, West 25th St., Cleveland, clevelandart.org
MONDAYS
Beat Busters Hip Hop Dance Sessions. Have fun while honing creativity, coordination, musicality and listening skills. Ages 4-7. 12 p.m. North Ridgeville Parks & Recreation, 7327 Avon Belden Road, North Ridgeville, nridgeville.org
WEDNESDAYS
GEE! I AM A TREE! A science and art themed class designed to help children get to know nature’s building blocks and create art to reflect their findings. Ages 3-5. 10 a.m.-12 p.m. BAYarts, 28795 Lake Road, Bay Village, bayarts.net
THURSDAYS
Adapted Arts Sampler: Special Needs. Learn different art forms by engaging in movement to music, instrument play, creative dramatics and more. Ages 7-10. 4 p.m. Beck Center for the Arts, 17801 Detroit Ave., Lakewood, beckcenter.org
Pre-K Explorers. Weekly dropoff program that gives junior naturalists the opportunity to explore, create, and play. Ages 3.5-5. 9/18-12/1. 8:30-10:30 a.m. The Nature Center at Shaker Lakes, 2600 S. Park Blvd., Cleveland, shakerlakes.org
Kids Mixed Aerial. Students build strength, flexibility and confidence while learning the foundations of aerial arts. Through 11/6. 6:15 p.m. Sky Circus Cleveland, 4700 Lakeside Avenue East, skycircuscleveland.com
SATURDAYS
STEAM Team Saturdays. On the second and fourth Saturday of each month, children, ages 5-11 discover the wonder of S.T.E.A.M. 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Akron Children’s Museum, 216 S. Main St., akronkids.org
Second Saturday Science. A naturalist answers questions and helps spot marsh wildlife, including birds, bees and butterflies. 8 a.m.-12 p.m. Mentor Marsh, 88528928 Woodridge Ln., Mentor, cmnh.org
Gears and Gadgets: Children’s Studio. Young artists engage with the museum’s collection while building idea-generation and critical-thinking skills. 9/6-27. Ages 5-10. 10-11:30 a.m. The Cleveland Museum of Art, 11150 East Blvd., clevelandart.org
Junior Chamber Orchestra. Prepare young musicians for advanced ensembles through instruction in ensemble playing and musicality. Ages 7-12. 11:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m. BOP STOP, Music Settlement, 2920 Detroit Ave., Cleveland, themusicsettlement.org
Broadway Tots. Learn all aspects of musical theatre technique and performance skills by learning the building blocks. Ages 4-6. 9/20-11/22. 9-10 a.m. Weathervane Playhouse, 1301 Weathervane Lane, Akron, weathervaneplayhouse.com
Ongoing THROUGH 9/7
Butterflies. The exhibit is housed in a screened habitat next to the Corbin Conservatory. Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, 714 N. Portage Path, Akron, stanhywet.org
Our Town. A magical staging of Thornton Wilder’s Pulitzer Prize-winning masterpiece. Allen Theatre at Playhouse Square, 1407 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, playhousesquare.org
Day - By - Day
9/5
Beekeeping 101. Discover the amazing world of bees and learn the essentials of beekeeping in this interactive, hands-on class. Ages 13+. 6-7:30 p.m. Quail Hollow Park, 13480 Congress Lake Ave., Hartville, starkparks.com
End of Summer Bash. Sample mocktails and build-your-own mocktail station, special animal experiences, free caricatures, good music and more. 6-9 p.m. Akron Zoo, 505 Euclid Ave., Akron, akronzoo.org
9/6
Grand Times. Celebrating grandparents and creating memories. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Eton, 28867 Chagrin Blvd., Woodmere, etonchagrinblvd.com
9/7
Grandparents Day and Community Celebration. 2-4 p.m. Orange Branch Library, 31975 Chagrin Boulevard, Pepper Pike, cuyahogalibrary.org
9/8
Cardboard Construction Company. Read books about builders, then dream and build a cardboard creation. 6-7 p.m. Avon Branch Library, 37485 Harvest Drive, lorainpubliclibrary.org
Parachute Drop Day. Make and drop a parachute from the library’s 3rd floor skylight. Ages 4 and up. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Medina County District Library, 210 S. Broadway St., mcdl.info
9/10
Youth Adventure Seekers. Kids can try stand-up paddleboarding, rock climbing, biking and more. Ages 10-15. 4:30-6:30 p.m. Quarry Park North, Corner of Monticello Boulevard And South Belvoir Boulevard, clevelandmetroparks.com
Let’s Make Ice Cream! Grades K-6 can drop in and make their own ice cream by hand. 3:30-5 p.m. Westlake Porter Public Library, 27333 Center Ridge Road, westlakelibrary.org
9/12-13
Stark County Bird Quest. This 24-hour challenge has two goals in mind - get people into the outdoors using birds as a catalyst, and to accumulate data about bird populations in Stark County. starkparks.com
9/13
Waterloo Arts Fest. Multiple stages of a great mix of local music, art vendors, food trucks, street performers and unique art activities. Noon -7 p.m. Waterloo Road between Calcutta Ave. and E. 161st St., waterlooarts.org
Rocky River Arts Festival. A festival to celebrate the talents of Rocky River residents and highlight the merchants in the Old Detroit Shopping area. 10 a.m. -5 p.m. rrparksandrecfoundation.com
Free Hispanic Heritage Month Concert. Come early to socialize and dance in the Grand Foyer with DJ IamYulissa. 7 p.m. Severance Music Center, 11001 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, clevelandorchestra.com
Family Fishing. Staff and volunteer fishermen will assist families, regardless of experience level. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Hubbard Valley Park, 8600 Hubbard Valley Road, Seville, medinacountyparks.com
Tent Camping Workshop. A fun introductory camping experience including fishing, hiking, upcycled crafting, simple campfire cooking, and more. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Silver Creek Lake House, 5000 Hametown Road, Norton, summitmetroparks.org
Build it Festival. Build with blocks, toothpicks, marshmallows and newspaper rolls to make towers, cardboard constructions and more. Ages 4-9. 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. Goodyear Branch Library, 60 Goodyear Blvd., Akron, akronlibrary.org
9/13-14
Butterfly Release. 12 and 2 p.m. Beech Creek Botanical Garden, 11929 Beech St. NE, Alliance, beechcreekgardens.org
9/14
Bob Meister Special Needs Fishing Derby. Exclusively for individuals with special needs. 8 a.m. -12 p.m. Sippo Lake Park East, 5300 Tyner St., Canton, starkparks.com
Introduction to Archery for Kids. Children ages 9-16 can learn the basics of target archery. 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. Chickagami Park, 17957 Tavern Road, Burton, geaugaparkdistrict.org
Understanding Art. Learn about famous artists and make some art. 4-4:30 p.m. Memorial Nottingham Branch Library, 17109 Lake Shore Blvd., Cleveland, cpl.org
Family Clay Play: Pinch Pot Party. Learn various hand-building techniques and receive instruction to create a piece of pottery, regardless of skill level. 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Valley Art Center, 155 Bell St., Chagrin Falls, valleyartcenter.org
Brushes & Books. Staff will read books and kids will work on a simple themed art project inspired by the story. 2-3 p.m. Parma-Snow Branch Library, 2121 Snow Road, Parma, cuyahogalibrary.org
9/21
J Family Day: Rosh Hashanah. Families will celebrate Rosh Hashanah together at the Mandel JCC. 10-11:30 a.m. Mandel JCC of Cleveland, 26001 S. Woodland Road, Beachwood, mandeljcc.org
9/22
Write to Your Favorite Author. Young readers sit and pen a letter to their favorite author to be mailed to them. 3:30-5 p.m. Noble Neighborhood Branch Library, 2800 Noble Road, Cleveland, heightslibrary.org
Color Explorers. Young coloring enthusiasts explore exciting themes and techniques through crayons, markers and more. 5:30-6:30 p.m. Reed Memorial Library, 167 E. Main St., Ravenna, reedlibrary.org
9/26
Twilight Zone Film Fest 2025. A selection of four classic “Twilight Zone” episodes on Canton’s largest screen. 6:30-7:30 p.m. Canton Palace Theatre, 605 Market Ave. North, Canton, cantonpalacetheatre.org
9/26-28
Rotary Camp Respite Weekend. A great way for a first-time camper to gain a short overnight experience. 4460 Rex Lake Drive, Akron, gotcamp.org
9/27
Junior Firefighters: Safety First! Meet a real-life firefighter, make a craft, explore the inside of a firetruck and more. 1-2 p.m. Aurora Memorial Library, 115 E. Pioneer Trail, portagelibrary.org
9/28
Babies & Bumps. Learn from experts and discover great resources for every new-parent situation. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Cleveland Marriott East, 26300 Harvard Rd, Beachwood, babies-and-bumps.com
10/7
CoComelon: Sing-A-Long LIVE. This interactive live show brings CoComelon’s world to life, inviting families to sing, dance and play together. 6 p.m. Akron Civic Theatre, 182 S. Main St., Akron, akroncivic.com
By Jason Lea
Jason Lea has a son, a daughter and a full-time job at the Mentor Public Library. He also blogs for Northeast Ohio Parent in his nonexistent free time. You can find this East sider on Twitter at @jasonmarklea or read his blog at northeastohioparent. com/bloggers
Make a Game Out of Learning
Hidden cheeseburgers lurk inside the Cleveland Museum of Natural History.
I’m not talking about the Balto Burgers in the cafe, either. I mean plasticine artificial cheeseburgers.
The joke dates back at least as long as my kids have been alive.
Carl Jara — a fabrication specialist at CMNH and, coincidentally, a world-class sand sculptor — thought it would be funny to hide a leftover cheeseburger prop from a previous exhibit elsewhere in the museum.
He was right. This errant cheeseburger — birthed a tradition.
Of course, my kids didn’t know that when they found their first cheeseburger hidden inside [redacted because I’m not a snitch.]* They just thought it was fun and wanted to know if there were more.
They spent the rest of the afternoon scouring exhibits — even ones they typically glazed over — to find the mystery meat.
They learned about geology, cosmology, and snowy owls while on their burger hunt. Of course, they didn’t intend to.
PHOTOGRAPHED AT THE CLEVELAND MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY: THREE SMILODONS; NO CHEESEBURGERS
for you, but it’s the rare kid that always wants it.
The trick is in persuading the child who might feel like learning. That’s where the cheeseburgers come in. They transform a visit to the museum into a scavenger hunt. When you turn the trip into a game, the indifferent become the interested.
Many museums, zoos and the like already know the value of a good game. If you’re visiting somewhere — especially for the first time — ask if they have a scavenger hunt. If not, it’s easy to create one of your own.
Scale it to their age:
• Let’s find at least one thing for each color of the rainbow.
• We’re looking for one placental mammal, one marsupial, and one monotreme.
It also helps to tie it into what they’ve been learning at preschool or school:
• Let’s see if we can locate something that starts with each letter of the alphabet.
• Let’s take a bunch of photos during our hike. Then we can make a list of what lives in this habitat.
Of course, there’s the question of prizes. You can already hear your kid asking, “What do I get if I do it?”
The learning was coincidental — like Jara’s sand sculpting — but it was still learning. If a kid wants to explore a subject, they don’t need any additional motivation.
I work at a library and have watched children become self-taught experts in stop-motion animation, fashion design, and literal rocket science.
Meanwhile, no child will learn if they’re feeling hostile about it. In this way, learning is like asparagus. It’s good
Some children will play a game just to see if the princess is in the castle. Others need that incentive. I leave it to you to know what motivation is appropriate for your kids.
I’ll conclude by acknowledging the obvious. If your child isn’t in the mood for a trip to the park/museum/zoo/arboretum/aquarium, turning the outing into a scavenger hunt may not salvage the afternoon. If they need a nap, snack, or a couple of hours alone in their room, then that’s what you should give them.
However, if you want your children to look a little closer at their surroundings, then a game might be exactly what they need.
*I won’t tell you where any of the cheeseburgers are. But I’ll offer this hint: Even an herbivore can’t resist the burger’s savory call.
