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Deciphering Dyslexia To School or Not
Family Fall Fun
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What’s on the Web
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Fire Prevention Week Discover life-saving fire safety tips and learn all about the Cincinnati Fire Museum. This non-profit is home to historic artifacts, interactive exhibits and hosts fun family
events all year long. Breast Cancer Awareness Month
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A variety of Cincinnati and NKY events will take place in October to promote breast cancer awareness, find the nearest to you in this digital feature! Plus, gain insight on early detection. Cool Character Costumes Have an avid reader at home? Check out this festive roundup of literary Halloween costume ideas. Candy Donation Roundup After the initial excitement about trick- or-treat candy wears off, bags and bags of candy remain. Say “bye” to the sugar, and check out this list of dental practices participating in candy buy-back or donation events.
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Contents
Features Exceptional Resource Guide Learn about the many local services and supports available for exceptional children! Be sure to head online in October for a list of local attractions which offer social narratives, sensory bag use, events and more. Fall Family Fun Whether your family enjoys pumpkin patches, ghoulish community gatherings or downright frightful festivities, this roundup of local happenings has your October BOOked full with fall fun. Sunsets and Smiles in Riviera Nayarit Understanding Dyslexia: What Parents Need to Know Discover helpful definitions, information on the diagnosis process, resources and more. Relaxation, rejuvenation and lots of time making memories together; read all about the Foreman family’s trip to Riviera Nayarit.
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To School or Not to School: A Sickness Checklist
“Achoo!” rings out over the tri-state! Are your student’s sniffles enough to warrant a day home from school? Use this checklist to help you decide.
In Every Issue 4 8 What’s on the Web Publisher’s Note Feedback Cincy Buzz Things to Do The Last Word Things We Love 10 12 21 28 30
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Publisher’s Note
MEET OURTEAM AMY L. FOREMAN PUBLISHER EDITORIAL AMANDA MILLER Managing Editor SANONNA AL TAWEEL AMANDA CIANI JULIANNA STEEN Associate Editors ART/PRODUCTION TOM GONZALES MADELINE MILETELLO ASAREL SMITH MCKINNA SPROLES Graphic Designers
ADVERTISING/MARKETING STEVEN BEACHUM Sales Manager
CRYSTAL BARRETT KAYLA FRICKS GOMEZ RYN WHITESIDE Senior Account Executives CAMILLE CAVIN JENNIFER HOFFMANN MARTINE MELANCON KAYLEIGH MONTANA
Parenting Through Learning Differences
JILLIAN WRAY Account Executives
ELISABETH BARRETT Marketing Coordinator
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT TERI HODGES Director of Community Partnerships
P arenting a child with a learning disability is a daily challenge, no matter where on the spectrum those struggles may fall. In our family, the odds were always high. My husband has dyslexia and ADHD, and while all of our children inherited my anxiety, two also carry the learning-disability gene. Life as a busy mom already feels like a juggling act, and the added layers of schoolwork and self-doubt can stretch me thin. We made a family decision not to medicate—for now.That choice isn’t universal, but it works for us at this stage. If the time comes when it feels necessary, we’ll reconsider. In the meantime, our focus is on patience and flexibility. ADHD brings with it a storm of energy, humor, and spontaneity.Those qualities are exhausting at times, but they’re also part of what makes my child who he is. Homework, though, is our battleground. One long session never works, so we break it into smaller pieces—
two or three rounds, sometimes more. If reading is required, it usually means sitting together and sharing the load, one page at a time. Math is another story. I finally told the school, “Please send him home with his math already done, because it won’t happen otherwise.” It was one of the best boundaries I’ve set. The hardest part isn’t the work itself. It’s watching my child wrestle with the awareness that he is different. He is his own toughest critic. We remind him daily that his strengths outweigh his struggles, that the very qualities that frustrate him now will serve him well later, and that these challenges won’t last forever. Parenting through learning differences means accepting that progress won’t look like anyone else’s chart or report card. Some days we stumble, some days we soar. Most days, it’s simply about walking beside our children, steadying their steps until they can steady their own.
ROXANE VOORHIES Community Outreach ADMINISTRATION BRANDON FOREMAN Chief Executive Officer
LAURIE ACOSTA Director of Operations
GAYLE GAUTHREAUX Director of Accounting ALEXIS ALEXANDER Senior Executive Administrator BREE WRAY Website & Digital Content Strategist
SARAH MILLER Client Success Manager
CINCINNATI FAMILY MAGAZINE is published monthly by FAMILY RESOURCE GROUP INC. (FRG) and distributed free of charge. Subscriptions accepted. Only authorized distributors may deliver and pick up the magazine. Paid advertisements appear in FAMILY RESOURCE GROUP INC. (FRG) publications, including print and other digital formats. FRG does not endorse or evaluate the product, service, or company, nor any claims made by the advertisement. We reserve the right to edit, reject, or comment editorially on all materials contributed. We cannot be held responsible for the return of any unsolicited material. CINCINNATI FAMILY MAGAZINE Copyright 2025. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission prohibited.
Amy L. Foreman Publisher
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Feedback
We asked, and you answered ... C ult classic movie Hocus Pocus perfectly depicts 90’s (and 00’s) teen attitudes towards trick or treating—they were simply “too cool” to wear
a costume. Whether they were stealing candy from younger kids or lighting candles to awaken the dead, teens were out wreaking havoc and getting into trouble—anything but trick or treating. However, it seems like there may have been a cultural shift, with many teens going out on Halloween night with friends. Some teens even wear elaborate themed group costumes in hopes of getting maximum candy loot. It got us thinking… Is there a certain age that kids should stop trick or treating?
“Never. Stay young forever and have some fun. Life is so serious; if there is an opportunity to embrace the silly, do it. Wear the costume, get that candy. Happiest of Halloweens to you all!” -Amanda C., Associate Editor of Cincinnati Family Magazine “No. I probably went trick or treating until I was 15 or 16.” -Jennifer C. “No! Let kids be kids as long as they want to be.” -Charla S. “No. I love seeing the teen- agers out and some of their costumes are super creative. Let them be kids while they can.” -Jennifer M. “There isn’t a specific age. If they are dressed up and be- ing polite, I am giving them candy. I stopped sometime in high school.” -Abby S.
“Kids are forced to grow up too fast, and I think it is awesome that they are out having wholesome fun. I ful- ly recommend buying a big wholesale box of Ramen and handing it out to the teens who come to your house. It’s super inexpensive and worth every penny when you see their reactions.” –Channing K. “No way! Keep the fun alive. I was probably 13 when I stopped, but if kids have a good attitude about it, why not let them have some fun.” -Laura P. “No. I stopped after high school.” -Erin C. “No certain age. I was 12 though and stopped because I wanted to.” -Amber W.
giving them something. I don’t remember at what age I stopped, but now at 58, I still love the treats!” -Jennifer A. “As long as they dress up and act respectfully, I think it’s great to have teenagers still being kids.” -Michelle M. “All ages are welcome to trick or treat!” -Kelsey K. “Absolutely not. If they are behaving themselves, let them trick or treat for as long as they want.” -Beth R. “I feel like when I was 12-13, kids were kind of looked down on if they wanted to keep trick or treating and it wasn’t cool. I felt sad when none of my friends wanted to go out with me anymore. But now, you see like hoards of teenagers out together just laughing and having fun. It’s healing my inner child! Ha. So no. I don’t think there is an age when kids should
stop.” -Sarah L.
“Nope! Let them have fun!” -Amanda C.
“Anything that keeps kids out of trouble is good in my book. Come get your candy, teens.” -Ashley P. “No. My reasoning might be a little different though. We have a really long driveway, so anyone who comes to my door on Halloween night earns a full size candy bar.” -Megan B. “If anyone answers this question with anything other than “No.”, they are seriously a buzz kill. Let the teens be kids. It’s candy; it’s not that serious. Don’t gatekeep fun.” -Lauren H. “Probably around 13. It’s just part of growing up and phasing out kid stuff.” -Mike S.
“Middle school.” -Sarah L.
“I don’t care how old they are—if they’re in a costume and say trick or treat, I’m
“I seriously love seeing teenagers trick or treating.
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Cincinnati Buzz
SEEYOUR CHILD IN CINCINNATI FAMILY MAGAZINE During Kidchella 2025, we saw SO many smiling, happy faces posing for snapshots at our photo station.Those smiles genuinely made us smile.To keep the sheer joy and good vibes going, Cincinnati Family Magazine is creating a monthly snapshots page that will be featured in our print publication starting in January of 2026.To submit your kiddo’s smiling face for our first ever snapshots page, visit cincinnatifamilymagazine.com , click on “Promotions,” then select “Upload Snapshots.” We can’t wait to see your little stars shining in our pages soon!
FUN CITY ADVENTURE PARK NOW IN CINCINNATI Fun-loving families have a new place to play in West Chester, Ohio. Fun City Adventure Park is now open. More than just a trampoline park, there are foam pits, a ninja warrior course, climbing walls and slides to be explored, too. Whether families are having a play day out or planning a birthday party for their child, this new adventure destination is tons of fun—it’s right there in the name, after all. Visit funcityadventurepark.com for all of the details.
NKY PERSPECTIVES GRAND OPENING
PINS MECHANICAL OPENS NEW LOCATION
A one-of-a-kind facility will open their doors for the first time on October 15th, with a celebration planned from 4-6:30 p.m. NKY Perspectives aims to empower teens and young adults with developmental differences like Autism, Down Syndrome and ADHD through evidence- based programs, social opportunities and life skills training. Filling a need in the community, NKY Perspectives creates opportunities for a vulnerable community to thrive and succeed beyond the time when their traditional schooling ends. NKY Perspectives: Skills for Life is located at 45 Cavalier Boulevard in Florence; visit nkyperspectives.com to learn more about programming, make a donation and more.
“Proudly made with midwest grit”, Pins Mechanical is truly a prime example of what Ohio family life is all about. Parents can kick back and catch up with their pals, while the kids play games nearby. And no one will think to murmur “I’m bored” because there are so many activities to partake in. From duckpin bowling, pinball machines, arcade games, hookie, patio pong, bocce, ping pong and giant jenga, there is no shortage of fun things to do.There is also a literal slide in this unique venue! Pack some snacks or have food delivered, because you’re sure to want to settle in and hang out for a while. Pay Pins Mechanical a visit at 5272 District Park Drive in Mason, Oh; check out pinsbar.com for even more info.
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Exceptional Needs Resource Guide BY: AMANDA CIANI
513-583-8333 | smilestherapy.com
Therapy Works 4757 Cornell Road, #4, Blue Ash, OH 75 Cavalier Blvd., Suite 118, Florence 513-489-4919 | therapyworkscincy.com YMCA of Greater Cincinnati Autism Learning Center Clippard FamilyYMCA, serves ages 3-6 8920 Cheviot Road, Cincinnati 513-923-4466 | myy.org AUTISM SUPPORT Autism Connections 513-561-2300 x. 101 | autismcincy.com
Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky are great places to live and raise kids, with plenty of resources for all children— including those with unique needs. Explore this roundup of local services and support groups that will help every family thrive.
abcpediatrictherapy.com
Applied Behavioral Services 3700 Park 42 Drive, Sharonville 513-861-0300 7413 Squire Court, West Chester, 513-847-4685 appliedbehavioralservices.com Big Blue Canopy 11230 Cornell Park Drive, Cincinnati 513-880-6800 | bigbluecanopy.com Best Point Education & Behavioral Health + Heidt Center of Excellence Autism Center 5050 Madison Road, Cincinnati 513-272-2800 | bestpoint.org Bluesprig Autism 3611 Socialville-Foster Road, Suite 101, Mason 513-322-5779 | bluesprigautism.com Cincinnati Center for Autism 100 Commercial Drive, Fairfield 513-874-6789 | cincinnaticenterforautism.org Elite Kids Therapy 6860Tylersville Road, Suite 5, Mason 8520 E. Kemper Road, Suite 201, Cincinnati 513-444-0770 | elitekidstherapy.com Hopebridge Autism Therapy Centers 7312 Central Parke Blvd., Mason 513-402-1711 1001 Ford Cir., Suite A, Milford 513-831-2578 2904 Flotz Drive, Edgewood 859-795-3000 hopebridge.com The Kelly O’Leary Center at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital and Medical Center 3333 Burnet Ave., Cincinnati 513-636-4611 | cincinnatichildrens.org NKY Perspectives 45 Cavalier Blvd., Florence 859-980-3930 | nkyperspectives.com Ruby ABA Therapy 2940 Glendale Milford Road, Cincinnati 513-401-8953 | rubyaba.com S.M.I.L.E.S. Integrative Therapy Services 1120 Cottonwood Drive, Suit 4, Loveland
ADHD SERVICES 513 ADHD
5720 A Signal Hill Ct., Milford 513-831-9408 | 513adhd.com
Autism Rocks Cincinnati autismrockscincy.org
The Affinity Center, Inc. 11804 Conrey Road, Suit 100, Cincinnati 513-984-1000 | theaffinitycenter.com Brain Balance Center 12084 Montgomery Road, Cincinnati 513-707-0125 | brainbalancecenters.com Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center’s Center for ADHD 2800 Winslow Ave., Cincinnati 513-636-4336 | cincinnatichildrens.org ESD Pediatric Group 4000 Smith Road, Suite 175, Norwood 905 Main St., Milford 513-248-1210 | esdpeds.com Northeast Cincinnati Pediatric Associates, Inc. 8185 Corporate Way, Mason 513-398-7171 | cincinnatipediatrics.com
BLIND AND VISUALLY IMPAIRED SERVICES Cincinnati Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired
2045 Gilbert Ave., Cincinnati 513-221-8558 | cincyblind.org
Clovernook Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired 7000 Hamilton Ave., Cincinnati 513-522-3860 | clovernook.org
DEAFNESS AND HARD OF HEARING SERVICES Hands & Voices ohiohandsandvoices.org
Hearing Speech + Deaf Center 2825 Burnet Ave., Suite 330, Cincinnati 513-221-0527 4440 Glen-Este Withamsville Road, Suite 475, Cincinnati | 513-947-8470 5900 West Chester Road, Suite J, West
Springer Center and School 2121 Madison Road, Cincinnati 513-871-6080 | springer-ld.org Thriveworks 2300 Montana Ave., Cincinnati 513-657-1981 | thriveworks.com
Chester | 513-942-3350 hearingspeechdeaf.org
St. Rita School for the Deaf 1720 Glendale Milford Road, Evendale 513-771-7600 | srsdeaf.org DOWN SYNDROME SERVICES AND SUPPORT Down Syndrome Association of Greater Cincinnati 4623 Wesley Ave., Suite A., Cincinnati 513-761-5400 | dsagc.com GiGi’s Playhouse CIncinnati 732 Middleton Way, Suite 200, Loveland 513-888-1653 | gigisplayhouse.org Thomas Center for Down Syndrome 3430 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati 513-636-4611 | cincinnatichildrens.org
ADHD SUPPORT ADDitude additudemag.com
CHADD (Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity
Disorder) chadd.org
AUTISM SERVICES ABC PediatricTherapy
Locations on Red Bank Road, Wester Hills, Loveland, West Chester, Milford and Hamilton See website for location phone numbers
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Fall Family Fun
FALL FUN DOWN ONTHE FARM
Station Road Express (formerly located at EnterTRAINment Junction)
10052 Reading Road, Evendale, OH | 513-563-6663 | gormanfarm.org
Blooms & Berries Farm Market— Fall on the Farm 9669 S. St. Rt. 48, Loveland, Oh | 513- 697-9173 | bloomsandberries.com What’s NEW in 2025: + Tracks Through Time 5-Acre Corn Maze theme + Free train rides everyThursday + Coffee Trailer + Barnyard Adventures Low Ropes Course Brown’s Family Farm Market— Fall Family Fun Weekends 11620 Hamilton Cleves Road, Hamilton, OH | 513-738-0404 | brownsfarmmarket.com Burger Farm—51st Annual Fall Festival 7849 Main St., Newtown, OH | 513-561-8634 | burgerfarms.com Burwinkel Farms Fall Fun 4359 Hamilton Cleves Road, Hamilton, OH | 513-738-1145 | burwinkelfarms.com Country Pumpkins 1835 Sherman Mt. Zion Road, Dry Ridge, KY | 859-905-9656 | countrypumpkinsky.com What’s NEW in 2025: + Brand new paintball shooting range
Sunflower Festival: October 4-5 Fall Farm Days: Saturdays and Sundays, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Hidden Valley Orchards 5474 OH-48, Lebanon, OH | 513-513- 5686 | hiddenvalleyorchards.com What’s NEW in 2025: + Brand newTinyTown kid’s village Kinman Farm Fall Festival 4175 Burlington Pike, Burlington, KY | 859-918-1682 | kinmanfarmmarket.com Neltner’s Farm Fall Fest 6922 4 Mile Road, Melbourne, KY | 859- 496-7535 | neltnersfarm.com Niederman Family Farm 5110 Lesourdsville West Chester Road, LibertyTownship, OH | 513-779-3228 | niedermanfamilyfarm.com Shaw Farm 1737 Ohio 131, Milford, OH | 513-575- 2022 | shawfarmmarket.com Station Road Farm 6749 Station Road, West Chester, OH | 513-777- 3650 | stationroadlandscaping.com What’s NEW in 2025: + Little engineers can take a ride on the
AUTUMN ACTIVITIES AROUND TOWN
Newport Aquarium Underwater Pumpkin Glow 1 Aquarium Way, Newport, KY | 1-800- 406-3474 | newportaquarium.com Daily through October 31, 2025 Jack O’ Lantern Glow at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden 3400 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH | 513-281- 4700 | jack-o-lanternglow.com October 3-5, 7-12, 6:30-9:45 p.m. and October 14-19, 21-26, 28-30, 6-9:45 p.m. What’s NEW in 2025: + Now featuring over 6,000 hand- carved jack-o-lanterns, carved by local artists + New themes including video games,
reptiles and more + New soundtrack + More special effects
Kings Island Tricks and Treats Fall Fest 6300 Kings Island Drive, Mason, OH | 513-754-5700 | visitkingsisland.com October 4-5, 11-12, 18-19, 25-26 and November 1-2, see website for hours of operation
Great ParksTrunk orTreat Sharon Woods, 11450 Lebanon Road,
Gorman Heritage Farm
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19th, 4-6 p.m.
Sharonville, OH | 513-563-4513 | see website to register for this free event: greatparks.org Tuesday, October 21 | 5-6:30 p.m. Haunted Village at Heritage Village 11500 Lebanon Road, Sharonville, OH | 513-564-9484 | heritagevillagecincinnati.org October 10-11, 17-18 and 24-25 | 6-10 p.m. HallZOOween 3400 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH | 513-281- 4700 | cincinnatizoo.org October 11-12, 18-19, 25-26 | noon-5 p.m.
double feature. 6:30-11 p.m. | see website for details and movie lineup | washingtonpark.org Horror on the Hill Movie Screening Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum, 1763 Hamilton Cleves, Road, Hamilton, OH | 513-868-8336 | pyramidhill.org Sunday, October 26 | 6-9:15 p.m. Take a nostalgic trip to Camp Crystal Lake with a spooky viewing of Friday the 13th (Rated R) Land of Illusion Scream Park 8762Thomas Road, Middletown, OH | 513-423-9960 | landofillusion.com FREETrunk orTreat: October 26th, 6-8 p.m. What’s NEW in 2025: + Themed weekends + New and reimagined attractions Twisted Trails Haunted Attraction 5719 W State Route 73, Wilmington, OH | 937-382-3535 | gokirkwood.com The USS Nightmare 101 Riverboat Row, Newport, KY | 859-740-2293 | ussnightmare.com Light’s On Matinee: Sunday, October 27th, 4-6 p.m.
The Dent Schoolhouse 5963 Harrison Ave., Cincinnati, OH | dentschoolhouse.com Light OnTrick-or-Treat: October 19th, 4-6 p.m.
What’s NEW in 2025: + Longest show ever
+ New Scenes including kitchen, extended laboratory and more
Kings IslandTricks Halloween Haunt 6300 Kings Island Drive, Mason, OH | 513-754-5700 | visitkingsisland.com October 2-5, 9-12, 16-19. 23-26, 30-21, November 1 What’s NEW in 2025: + Haunts require additional haunted attraction pass for all guests ($10+) + Order of the Dragon haunt experience
Fall Fest Weekend Washington Park, 1230 Elm St., Cincinnati, OH
Saturday, October 25-Sunday, October 26 | 11 a.m.-4 p.m.| washingtonpark.org Live music, animal encounters with Good Green Earth Farm, pumpkin patch and more.
+ The Conjuring: Beyond Fear experience (+ additional $15)
OTR Fright Fest 10.24: Washington Park, 1230 Elm St., Cincinnati, OH 10.25: Imagination Alley, 1317 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 10.26: Ziegler Park, 1322 Sycamore St., Cincinnati, OH Have a scream at this free movie fes- tival; each night of movies includes a
FRIGHTFUL FUN FOR FAMILIES
Brimstone Haunt 525 Brimstone Road, Wilmington, OH | 513-409-0644 | brimstonehaunt.com Family NightTrick orTreating, October
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Understanding DYSLEXIA: What Parents Need to Know
BY JULIANNA STEEN I t’s natural for your kid to struggle when learning to read, but what about when they’re still learning the alphabet after the other kids have moved on? “In first grade, I didn’t know all my letters, and everyone else was on sight words, and that’s when we started to realize something was wrong,” Gigi Casadaban, a friend with dyslexia, recalls. Hearing the diagnosis “dyslex- ia” might feel scary or intimidating as a parent, but you’re not alone: Dyslexia is actually pretty common—it affects 20 percent of the population and rep- resents 80–90 percent of all those with learning disabilities. Moreover, early support can make a huge difference. DYSLEXIA DEFINED The International Dyslexia Association (IDA) defines dyslexia as “a specific learning disability that is neurobio- logical in origin. It is characterized by difficulties with accurate and/or fluent word recognition and by poor spelling and decoding abilities.” In essence, your brain jumbles letters, words, and even the command from your parents to go clean your room. “Most people think it’s just a reading or spelling thing,” Casad- aban explains. “Mainly, it’s a short-term memory problem.There’s really no such thing as memorizing something ‘for the test.’ I really do have to learn it.” The IDA explains that though the exact cause of dyslexia is still unclear, it affects the way the brain functions and develops, leading to unexpected deficits in cognitive abilities, reading comprehension, and a “reduced read- ing experience that can impede growth of vocabulary and background knowl- edge.” It’s not about a child’s vision or level of intelligence.TheYale Center for Dyslexia & Creativity claims it is “most commonly due to a difficulty in phonological processing (the apprecia-
DYSLEXIA SUPPORTTEAM “My parents were so supportive and never made me feel embarrassed,” Casadaban shares. “They were a real blessing in that they never hid it or act- ed like we shouldn’t tell people about my dyslexia.” Her advice to parents with a child with dyslexia is to embrace it and support your child—don’t be embarrassed by their dyslexia, because it will lead your kid to be embarrassed by it too. “I know it’s scary to find out something’s wrong with your kid and that you want them to do so well, but they’re going to be fine,” she assures parents. “School’s gonna be tough, but you know, that’s just sort of how it’s going to be, and your kid can do all the things you can do; It might just take them more time to do it. Ultimately they’re going to be great people with all kinds of opportunities for jobs and careers, especially with your help.” While it may feel hard to receive a di- agnosis, consider how freeing it might be for your child. “Before we knew I had dyslexia, it was hard and frustrat- ing for my parents and for me because I couldn’t get it together,” Casadaban says. “After, there was more of a plan, and my school really focused on getting stuff into my long-term memory.” Un- derstanding the problem is the key to figuring out how to take steps to fix it! Try incorporating read-aloud time (even for older kids), using audiobooks and assistive tech (like speech-to-text) and praising your child’s effort, not just their achievements. DYSLEXIA TIMELINE There is no “cure” for dyslexia—it’s a lifelong journey. However, early inter- vention can be instrumental in helping your child learn. “Early intervention or additional direct instruction should begin as early as kindergarten or first
tion of the individual sounds of spoken language), which affects the ability of an individual to speak, read, spell and often, learn a second language.” DYSLEXIA DIAGNOSED Dyslexia is typically diagnosed by a comprehensive exam, which involves “intellectual and academic achievement testing, as well as an assessment of the critical underlying language skills that are closely linked to dyslexia,” accord- ing to the IDA.The testing is more than checking your child’s current reading level: It covers literary challenges like phonological awareness, decoding, reading fluency and comprehension, and rapid naming to evaluate your
child’s cognitive and language processes.
If you believe your child might have dyslexia, begin by talking to their teacher or pediatrician. Signs to watch for include: ■ Difficulty learning letters and sounds ■ Trouble rhyming or remembering sequences ■ Slow, effortful reading If they attend public school, you can also request a free school evaluation under IDEA. Often, if a student fails a dyslexia screening test, they will be referred to the school-based prob- lem-solving team, who will review the student’s data and develop an IEP (Individualized Education Program) plan for the student.The Student Action Plan can include dyslexia specific interven- tions, accommodations like extra time on tests and/or assistive technology to assist the student in accessing content materials. Private testing is also an option, available for a cost. ■ Avoidance of reading aloud ■ Poor spelling despite strong verbal skills
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grade for struggling readers when the gap is small and students benefit from brain plasticity advantages for learning language-based information,” the IDA recommends. When you first notice your child’s struggles, be proactive in advocating for them. DYSLEXIA REFRAMED Although there are certainly challeng- es that your child will face because of dyslexia, there are also advantages. “When I was little, I just wanted it to go away,” Casadaban remembers. “But now, even on the days I’m more aware of my dyslexia, I wouldn’t change that about myself.” Casadaban’s parents would tell her growing up that it would both hurt and help her brain to have dyslexia—and now she finally understands what they meant. “It’s made me smarter. Academ- ically, I can solve problems faster, I can make decisions based on less informa- tion and I’m more creative, coming up with new ways to do things. I can teach others really well and explain how to do things better because I had to teach myself my entire life.” Other benefits to dyslexia include developing more patience for others and yourself, as well as increased compassion, sympathy and awareness toward others. “It makes me more aware of others in friendships because I know what it’s like to have something invisible that’s wrong with me,” Casadaban says. “There are days I wish I didn’t have dyslexia, but some days when I problem-solve, I know it’s because I grew up doing that.” Encour- age your child to see the ways their dyslexia will grow them into a better person over time. DYSLEXIA TECH TIP Technology is a person with dyslexia’s best friend. For example, “Textbooks read to me, which can be really helpful,” Casadaban states. “Spellcheck is awe- some, especially because it would take a lot of time when I was young.”You can also set reminders and to-do lists on your phone to help with their short- term memory struggles. Programs like Grammarly can also read everything your child types and highlight potential mistakes, which can help them to better process information. Speech-to-text typing and texting can also be a helpful tool. Plus, many e-readers like Kindles have a dyslexic font that is easier to read.
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Next, diarrhea. Simply put, a student cannot learn if they are in the bathroom instead of the classroom. Beyond not feeling well and not being capable of learning, diarrhea is also a symptom of contagious sicknesses such as viral gastroenteritis. Likewise, students who have vomit- ed more than twice within a 24-hour period need rest and hydration from the comforts of home. Vomiting at school spreads germs and is downright stress- ful for the student. Finally, sniffles and coughs happen. A mild case of the sniffles is probably okay for a child to go to school. How- ever, Scaggs Huang suggests that, “ if your child was up all night with a bad cough, he or she may not feel well enough to learn in class.”. If the sniffles and cough are accompanied by a fever? That, too, means some time spent learning at home. KEEPYOUR SICK KID FROM GETTING EVEN SICKER Ever notice that sicknesses sometimes fall like dominoes, one after the other? A cold, then a stomach thing, and then now a bout of pink eye?! Unfortunately, misery loves company. Sick children have weakened immune systems, which means they are more likely to pick up additional sicknesses. Keeping sick kids at home keeps them from catching even more sicknesses. RETURNINGTO SCHOOL Many schools have a 24-hour rule when it comes to coming back to school. Once a student is 24-hours fever-free and their symptoms are decreasing, it is probably okay to head back to school. Go by the book and “check with your school about its illness policy, as (those) can vary,” says Scaggs Huang. A checklist and checking the school handbook is helpful in knowing when kids should stay home sick. But also, parents just know their kids, right? As a parent, you know the glassy eye look, the clammy feeling on their skin, a certain tone of voice, and yes, some parents report they can even smell when their kid is sick. So of course, go by the books when it comes to keeping home your sick kid… but also… trust your gut!
To School, or Not to School: A Sickness Checklist BY AMANDA CIANI S chool is in full swing! Which means lots of laughs in the lunch room, fun science class experiments, way to keep germs at bay.
Dr. Felicia Scaggs Huang, MD, MS, is a Cincinnati Children’s Hospital and Med- ical Center pediatrician who also serves as the system’s medical director for In- fection Prevention Control. As someone who specializes in infectious diseases, she also notes that, “ It’s important to make sure your kids are up-to-date on vaccines before going back to school. This includes getting an annual flu vaccine in the fall. Vaccines are safe and effective.” Furthermore, Dr. Scaggs Huang is a mom who relays, “I know that my children are much less likely to get a serious infection from germs that cause bacterial pneumonia or meningi- tis, chickenpox or measles because they are vaccinated.” THE STAY-HOME CHECKLIST There are a few indisputable, “You are definitely staying home from school today” situations.These include: • Fever • Diarrhea • Vomiting Severe cough and cold symptoms First up, fever. “A fever is a temperature greater than 100.4 Fahrenheit. When your child’s body detects an infection, their temperature may rise to help fight it.”, Scaggs Huang informs. “Daily fever for more than a few days, breathing hard and fast, and difficulty staying hy- drated are all signs that there might be something more serious going on that your doctor should check out.”
games in the gym, field trips, lots of ex- tracurriculars and more. It also, unfortu- nately, means little grubby hands pass- ing around germs during all of those activities.There are some preventative measures that can be taken to keep kiddos healthy, but once a sickness begins to rear its ugly heads, a choice has to be made: to send them to school or to not send them to school. Afterall, it could just be autumnal allergies! And what about if they aren’t even running a fever?! What if they are faking because they are worried about taking a test?! Don’t worry, we chatted with an expert and have answers to the most asked school-related sickness questions. Staying Healthy as Preventative Care There are a few everyday habits that can help children maintain good overall health. Eating a balanced diet, drinking plenty of fluids and taking a multivita- min is a good start! Staying active while also getting enough sleep are also helpful habits that benefit everyone’s health. It isn’t a bad idea to remind children (regardless of their age) that handwashing, and more specifically proper handwashing is very important! This means wetting the hands, apply- ing soap, and scrubbing all surfaces of the hands—fingertips, too—for at least 20 seconds before rinsing and drying. Finally, a tricky one for younger kiddos: avoiding touching one’s face is a good
Be well and wash those hands! Cincinnati Family Magazine
20 OCTOBER 2025 | CINCINNATIFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM
Things to Do OCTOBER
10- 26
The Wizard of Oz: Youth Edition Follow the yellow brick road! Look out for lions, tigers, and bears (oh my!) while joining The Children’sTheatre of Cincinnati during their first production on their new home stage, the newly reimagined EmeryTheatre.
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ID70: CONSTELLATIONS Fascinated by the night sky? The stars have occupied the minds of humans as far back as history exists. Join Met- roParks educators to learn how to identify seven fan favorite autumn constella- tions. Chrisholm MetroPark, 7-8 p.m. Free; registration required—designed for 13+. yourmetroparks.net JACK-O-LANTERN GLOW PRESENTED BY MEDPACE Embark on an immersive walkthrough experience with more than 6,000 hand-carved pumpkins and fall displays along a half-mile trail.The largest of its kind in theTri- state area, this jack o’lantern lit trail, coupled with special effects, is a unique way to experience the grandeur of fall with the family! Cincin- nati Zoo & Botanical Garden, 6:30-9:30 p.m., runs October 3-5, 7-12, 14-19, 21-26, 28-30. $10-25, Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden member discount available. jack-o-lanternglow.com Celebrate Sandyland Acres 20th anniversary with a walk through their haunted maze and a trip on the haunted hayride. Sandylandacres Farm, 8 p.m.-midnight; Fridays and Saturdays in October. $15-30. sandylandacres.com Little sprouts can help in the garden, read stories, make crafts, meet animal friends and more. Glenwood Gardens, Highfield Discovery Garden, 10:30 a.m. $7. greatparks.org Grab those clubs and get ready to hit the links for a fantastic cause! T1D War- riors is thrilled to announce their first annual golf outing fundraiser.The Golf Courses of Kenton County, 7:30 a.m.- SANDYLANDACRES HAUNTED HAYRIDE SUPER SPROUTS GARDEN CLUB TEE OFF FORTYPE 1 GOLF OUTING
2 p.m. $600 per foursome. t1dw.org/golfouting
WWE FRIDAY NIGHT SMACKDOWN See WWE superstars, includ- ing John Cena (well, you can’t *see* him, right?) as they battle it out in the ring. Heritage Bank Center, 7:30 p.m. $79+. heritagebankcenter.com
Disney on Ice presents Mickey’s Search Party October 9-12th
SAT 4
WED 1
16+. Washington Park, 5:30-7 p.m. Free. contemporaryartscenter.org FRI 3 CINCINNATI SYMPHONY: CHRISTIAN MACELARU A new era begins with Music Director Christian Macelaru’s debut. Cincinnati Music Hall, October 3rd and 4th: 7:30 p.m. $15+. cincinnatisymphony.org CRAFTINGTHE COSMOS Grab some friends and a pair of celestial pj’s—it is time to get cozy during this fun eve- ning.There will be embroi- dering, adult coloring sheets, friendship bracelet making, a s’mores station, mocktails, hot chocolate, and viewing through the telescopes (if clear). Best for adults and teens ages 16+. Cincinnati Observatory, 7-9 p.m. $30-40. c incinnatiobservatory.org DRACULA: A COMEDY OF TERRORS Grown-ups can sink their teeth into a hilarious new take on the world’s most famous vampire. PG-13. The Otto M. BudigTheater, 7:30 p.m., production runs through November 1st. $22-78. cincyshakes.com HOMESCHOOL SCIENCE: FOOD FINDERS Discover how animals in the park find, collect and store their food. Sharon Woods, 10 a.m.-noon. $9 per student, guardians must stay with children for program dura- tion. greatparks.org
DAYTON FALL FEST Spend an evening in the community painting pump- kins, listening to live music, checking out vendors and more.There will be a kid’s fun and games zone, food and drink trucks will be onsite, too. Monument Park of Dayton, KY, 5-10 p.m. Free. daytonky.com DOG MAN:THE MUSICAL Based on the worldwide bestselling hit series by Dav Pilkey, Dog Man:The Musical is a hilarious and heartwarm- ing production following the chronicles of Dog Man, who with the head of a dog and the body of a policeman, loves to fight crime and chew on the furniture. Aronoff Center for the Arts, October 4th: 2 and 6:30 p.m., October
A HEALING GARDEN This fall show draws inspiration from the Padua Botanical Garden in Italy. Families can learn how plants play an important role in human well-being and use a map to identify medically significant plants. Krohn Conservatory, 10 a.m.- 8 p.m. through October 12. Free-$12. cincinnatiparks.com CELEBRATING SELF: ONE CITY ONE BOOK 1C1B is back this fall with Lisa See’s LadyTan’s Circle of Women . Delve into themes withTheresa Mhanna of Red Dragon Oriental Medicine who will be sharing infor- mation on ancient Chinese healing arts. Fitton Center for Creative Arts, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. $35. fittoncenter.org MYTHIC Making its US premier, this show flips the Greek myth of Persephone on its ear with a hit album’s worth of pop songs. Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park, 7:30 p.m., production runs through October 19. $35-85. cincyplay.com
5th: 2 p.m. $35+. cincinnatiarts.org
THE GREAT PUMPKIN FEST
Free family fun includes a puppet show, petting zoo, costume contest, not-so- scary haunted trail, games and more. Keehner Park, 2-6 p.m. Free. westchesteroh.org IOWA STATE VS. UNIVER- SITY OF CINCINNATI It’s family weekend at the big football game;be sure to check seating to partici- pate in “Stripe the Stadium”. Nippert Stadium, timeTBA, see website for ticket pricing. gobearcats.com GIANT STEPS:THE MUSIC OF JOHN COLTRANE
THU 2
OPEN SKETCHBOOK SESSIONS Meet under the gazebo to bring work to share or come with ideas to sketch out with the company of others. Materials provided. For ages
22 OCTOBER 2025 | CINCINNATIFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM
Nature Preserve | Ellenwood Nature Barn, 1 p.m. Free. greatparks.org SOCCER UNITES This two-day program will have players ages 6-12 elevating their soccer skills with the help of FC Cincinna- ti! Miami Whitewater Soccer Complex, October 4 and 5, noon-2 p.m. Free; registra- tion required. greatparks.org SUNFLOWER FESTIVAL Roam through breathtaking fields of sunflowers, explore education stations, listen to live music and be sure to take a hayride to meet the mules and miniature horses. There will be craft vendors, food trucks and more. Gor- man Heritage Farm, October 4 and 5, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. $10- 15. gormanfarm.org THE ROADTRIP MARKET Two days of shopping with 100+ local small businesses. There will be live music and fabulous food trucks, too. Boone County Fairgrounds, October 4: 11 a.m.-4 p.m., October 5: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. $8.27+. theroadtripmarket.com WHITE WATER SHAKER VILLAGE - OPEN HOUSE The theme of this outstand- ing open house is “Passport to the Past”. Additional histor- ical sites in the community will also be open (Harrison Village Historical Society Mu- seum, Othneil Looker House, Fernald Feed Materials Feed Production Center (Fernald Preserve), and Passmore Cabin). Get ready to step back in time and explore the Shake community and way of life. White Water Shaker
jungle. Paycor Stadium, 4:25 p.m. see website for ticket pricing details. bengals.com FALL FOOD FEST Sample savory and sweet harvest dishes prepared by merchants.There will be live music and lots of fun for families. Findlay Market, 10
Saxophonist extraordinaire Chris Andrews returns to the Fitton Center with his quintet to honor jazz legend John Coltrane. Fitton Center for Creative Arts, 7:30-10 p.m. $44-54. fittoncenter.org KIDFEST The Loveland-Symmes Com- munity Firefighters’ Associ- ation annual event is tons of fun for kids of all ages! Nis- bet Park & Amphitheater, 2-4 p.m. Free. lovelandoh.gov KIDS FIRST FALL FEST Families will fall for Kids First Sports during this exciting event.There will be open play, open gym, a petting farm, carnival games, a pumpkin patch, bounce houses, a touch-a-bus area and so much more! Kids First Sports, 4-6 p.m. $35-75. kidsfirstsports.com NATIVE PLANT SALE Shop a wide selection of rea- sonably priced, well-grown, hard-to-find and ecologically important native plants. Cin- cinnati Zoo & Botanical Gar- den’s Bowyer Farm, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Registration required. Free; plants available for pur- chase. cincinnatizoo.org MONARCH TAGGING Learn what makes mon- archs unique, as well as how to safely capture, tag and release them. Become a part of an international effort to contribute valuable data, protecting this endangered phenomenon and learn what can be done to promote their success.Timberman Ridge MetroPark, 1-2 p.m. Free;
liberty-center.com
MON 6
FULL MOON WALKS Witness the night’s magic transform the trails while marveling at the full harvest moon during this quiet, guided hike. Preregistration required. Cincinnati Nature Center, 7:30-9 p.m. $8-16, preregistration required. cincynature.org. NURSE BLAKE: BUT DID YOU DIE? COMEDYTOUR Nurse Blake is back with his hilarious new comedy tour with all new content, diving into the wildest things pa- tients and their families say and do.TaftTheatre, 8 p.m. $46+. tafttheatre.org
a.m.-4 p.m. $20-40. findlaymarket.org
FLEA INTHE FORT Celebrate a great season with the last flea of 2025. There will be a wide variety of artisan craft vendors, live music, food trucks and so much more. Mess Hall, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. ftthomas.org MAD HATTER DAY The PlayScape is celebrating Mad Hatter Day with a tea party in the mud zone! Spot the pesky Cheshire Cat to win a special prize. Cincin- nati Nature Center, 1-2 p.m. Free-$12. cincynature.org MOVIE NIGHT Grab the family and snag some freshly popped pop- corn before enjoying the fea- ture film of the night, Shrek . Imagination Alley, 8:30-10:30 p.m. Free. imaginationalleyotr.com SPOT-A-TRUCK Get an exclusive look at ter- rific trucks and vehicles from the LibertyTownship Fire Department, LibertyTown- ship Services Department, Butler County Sheriff’s Office and more.There will even be a helicopter! Liberty Center, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Free.
TUE 7
ANIMAL TALES Nature has many stories to tell. Families are invit- ed to join together for a nature-themed story and activity. Woodland Mound, 10 a.m.-noon. Free. greatparks.org JAZZ AT THE SQUARE Featuring the Brooks Giles Quartet. Fountain Square, 5 p.m. Free. myfountainsquare.com SPIRIT OF AMERICA Kick-off America’s River Roots Festival with this gala that features the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, Cincinnati Ballet and the Cincinnati
registration required. yourmetroparks.net
THE MAGIC OF MONARCHS
Village, 2-5p.m. Free. whitewatervillage.org
Learn about the amazing life cycle of monarch butterflies and join in a citizen science project to learn how to tag them. Families can explore the native wildlife garden and also take home some milkweed to help support monarch butterflies even more. Farbach-Werner
SUN 5
Stricker’s Grove Customer Appreciation Day October 12th
CINCINNATI BENGALS VS. DETROIT LIONS Happy Who Dey day! Wear some orange and black and get ready for a rumble in the
CINCINNATIFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM | OCTOBER 2025 23
special animal enrichment, illusion shows and more. Cincinnati Zoo & Botani- cal Garden, noon-5 p.m. HallZOOween runs October 11-12, 18-19 and 25-26. Free for members-included with General Admission tickets. cincinnatizoo.org WIZARD OF OZ Follow the yellow brick road in this delightful stage ad- aptation of L. Frank Baum’s beloved tale in which young Dorothy Gale travels from Kansas over the rainbow to the magical Land of Oz! Ma- son High School, 2 or 5 p.m., production runs through October 12th. $18-28. royaltheatrecompany.com SATURNDAY The ringed planet is the star of the show today.There will be informative talks, face painting, building tours, food trucks, permanent jewelry available from Arch&Charm and more. Cincinnati Obser- vatory, 7 p.m. $10-15. cincinnatiobservatory.org TP20 The “Celebrating 20Years ofT-Pain” tour is coming to town, featuring EARTHGANG and Armani White. All ages show. MegaCorp Pavilion, 7 p.m. See website for ticket pricing details. promowestlive.com UCF VS. UNIVERSITY OF CINCINNATI Wear black and cheer on the bearcats football team! Nippert Stadium, timeTBA. See website for ticket pricing. gobearcats.com
There will be over 100 artisan and food vendors, live enter- tainment, pageants and so much more. October 10 and 11th: 11 a.m.-10 p.m., October 12th: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. operation-pumpkin.org RAPHAEL SAADIQ One man, one night, three decades of music.The “No Bandwidth!” tour is coming to downtown Cincy.TaftThe- atre, 8 p.m. $66+. tafttheatre.org THE WIZARD OF OZ: YOUTH EDITION Kicking off the season and the return toThe Emery Theatre,TCT will present a one-hour “youth edition” of this timeless tale. Follow along as Dorothy and friends make their journey down the Yellow Brick Road!The Em- eryTheatre, 7 p.m., produc- tion runs through October 26. $12.96-59.40. thechildrenstheatre.com
The Notebook October 14-26th
Opera. Cincinnati Music Hall, 7:30 p.m. $51.25+. cincinnatiarts.org
Join Mickey Mouse and friends on an adventure filled with world-class skating, high-flying acrobatics and unexpected stunts! Look for clues in the search forTinker Bell through immersive, fantastic worlds with familiar and beloved Disney pals. Heritage Bank Center, 7 p.m. production runs through October 12th. $30+. heritagebankcenter.com
WED 8 AMERICA’S RIVER ROOTS FESTIVAL
This five-day experience highlights river city life with music, cuisine, culture and cruises. Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky Riverfronts, see website for time, location and pricing details. americasriverroots.com SAFETY TOWN Join the Great Parks Rangers for a “wheelie” fun eve- ning all about traffic safety! Through interactive stations along the driving course, kids (ages 4-12) explore the rules of the road in fun, en- gaging ways while learning to stay safe as both pedestri- ans and passengers. Miami Whitewater Forest, 5-7 p.m. Free. greatparks.org TODDLER STORYTIME IN THE NATURE PLAYSCAPE Come experience a unique, outdoor storytime in the Nature PlayScape. A story expert will lead move- ments, songs and read nature-themed books. Each week is a new nature topic. Cincinnati Nature Center, 10:30-11 a.m. Free-$16. cincynature.org
FRI 10
CHIPPIE’S SENSATIONAL KIDS CLUB Pre-schoolers will love this monthly program that focus- es on science, technology, reading, engineering, art and math. October’s themed event will be “Pumpkin Patch Adventure”. Behringer-Craw- ford Museum, 11 a.m.-noon. $3 material fee + museum admission; pre-registration required. bcmuseum.org FALL FUN NIGHT Head to the farm for a spe- cial evening of fall festivities like hayrides, the corn maze, yummy food and a bonfire, too! Country Pumpkins, 2-9 p.m. see website for details. countrypumpkinsky.com JOHNNYSWIM The “When the War is Over” tour is coming to Cincy! All ages show. Bogart’s, 7 p.m. $48+. bogarts.com OPERATION PUMPKIN With giant carved pumpkins and a pumpkin weigh-off, this pumpkin and art festival is not just big, it is huge!
SAT 11
BURNET WOODS FALL FEST
Celebrate the season with pumpkin carving, music, a puppet show, food trucks and nature encounters. Bur- net Woods, noon-4 p.m. Free. cincinnati-oh.gov
THE CITY FLEA Shop local and support
small businesses during this fabulous flea. Washington Park, 10 a.m. Free admission. washingtonpark.org FISHING FOR BEGINNERS Learn all about fishing safety, casting, how to bait hooks and even how to identify caught fish. Fishing rods pro- vided on a first-come, first served basis. Lake Isabella Boathouse, 1-3 p.m. $10-13. greatparks.org HALLZOOWEEN Wear a costume, bring a treat bag and get ready to go trick or treating throughout the zoo.There will also be
SUN 12
FAMILY FLYING SQUIRREL WATCH
Venture to the flying squirrel viewing area to learn how to spot these seldom-seen forest residents as they glide in for their evening meal. Cincinnati Nature Center, 8-9:15 p.m. $8-16. cincynature.org
THU 9
DISNEY ON ICE PRESENTS MICKEY’S SEARCH PARTY
24 OCTOBER 2025 | CINCINNATIFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM
FAMILY WORKSHOPS: ROBOT SCULPTURE GARDEN Don’t let the garden look lonely, craft a sculptural ro- bot—the plants will be grate- ful for the company! Clifton Cultural Arts Center, 3 p.m. $5-80. cliftonculturalarts.org SECOND SUNDAY SHOWTIME Henny Penny’s Adventure is an immersive, “cluck-out- loud” one-person show. Audiences will be “heehaw- ing” with barnyard charm and on-stage antics. Clifton Cultural Arts Center, 2-3 p.m. Free. cliftonculturalarts.org STRICKER’S GROVE CUSTOMER APPRECIATION DAY Enjoy unlimited rides, roller coasters, mini-golf, soft drinks, popcorn, cotton can- dy and snow cones all day! Stricker’s Grove, noon-8 p.m. $20 per person + $5 per car. strickersgrove.com
Hall, 7:30 p.m., production runs through October 26. $47.25+. cincinnatiarts.org
89.89 jurassicquest.com
scavenger hunts and ani- mal ambassador meet and greets. Newport Aquarium, 7:15-11p.m. $59.99. newportaquarium.com
LITTLE SCIENTISTS Pre-schoolers can discov- er creeks and ponds while going on aquatic adventures. Cincinnati Nature Center, 10-
TUE 15
WHO WANTS TO BE A DANCER?
CREEPY CRITTER MYSTERY Curious kiddos can get
11:15 a.m. $8-16. cincynature.org
Leaps, spins and lifts. Cos- tumes, makeup and music. They all come together to create mesmerizing mo- ments and electrify your senses.The Dayton Ballet asks who wants to be a dancer and answers with a hands-on, how-to perfor- mance to engage and inspire everyone’s inner ballerina. Fitton Center for Creative Arts, 7:30-9 p.m. $14. fittoncenter.org ID70: HISTORY From the fossil-filled creeks to the tops of the towering trees and constellations beyond, get an inside view of what makes the history and nature of MetroParks so unique. Program for ages 13+. Governor Bebb MetroPark, 7-8 p.m. Free;
MAGIC FOREST HALLOWEEN HIKES Walk through a pumpkin-lit trail and meet costumed characters on this non- scary holiday walk. Caldwell Nature Preserve, 6-8 p.m. $8, free for 2 and younger; registration required. cincinnati-oh.gov Surprise! An additional sum- mit cinema has been added to the calendar. So bring a lawn chair and grab some free popcorn before enjoy- ing a family-friendly spooky movie. Summit Park, Dusk. Free. blueashparksandrec.com FRI 18 ARTISANFEST Shop small and support local at this awesome open air market.Washington Park, 10 a.m. Free. washingtonpark.org AUSCHWITZ Not long ago. Not far away. This exhibition shares a SPOOKY SUMMIT CINEMA daunting selection of more than 500 original artifacts alongside firsthand stories
on this whodunnit case to solve who has been stealing the park’s pumpkins. Meet creepy critters, solve puzzles and learn all about animals while cracking the case. Glenwood Gardens, Cots- wold Visitor Center, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $9. greatparks.org
WED 16
CINCINNATI BENGALS VS. PITTSBURGH STEELERS Happy Who Dey!This rivalry runs deep, so be sure to grab a seat. Paycor Stadium, 8:15 p.m. see website for ticket pricing. bengals.com PICASSO PUMPKINS Take a hayride to the pump- kin patch, pick out a pumpkin and paint it with glow-in- the-dark paint. Chrisholm Historic Farmstead,The Augspurger House, 10-11:30 a.m. $7, registration required. yourmetroparks.net
MON 13
registration required. yourmetroparks.net
JAZZ AT THE PARK Featuring SophiaTroyer. Washington Park, 6 p.m. Free. washingtonpark.org
JURASSIC QUEST X BRICK FEST
Jurassic Quest—the world’s most popular dinosaur ex- perience—joins forces with Brick Fest Live, the ultimate event for brick builders and LEGO® fans, to bring you the ULTIMATE day of discov- ery, play and imagination! Northern Kentucky Conven- tion Center, noon, event runs through October 19. $28.41-
SCHOOL’S OUT! CREEK DAY CAMP
Campers can spend a day immersing themselves in the watery worlds around Rowe Woods finding fossils and looking for creek critters. Cincinnati Nature Center, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. See website for
WEE WONDER ABOUT SPIDERS
Crawl in to learn all about spiders. Families can weave their way through a web of activity stations. Sharon Woods, 10-11 a.m. Free. greatparks.org
pricing details. cincynature.org
THU 17
TUE 14
AQUARIUM AFTER DARK 21+ | PUMPKIN BASH Sorry kids, this aquarium ad- venture is just for the adults! This after-hours excursion, which is perfect for a date night or girls night out, in- cludes lots of fun like enjoy- ing a variety of food stations, playing games, glowstick-lit
THE NOTEBOOK Based on the best-selling novel that inspired the iconic film,The Notebook tells the story of Allie and Noah, both from different worlds, who share a lifetime of love de- spite the forces that threaten to pull them apart. Aronoff Center, Procter & Gamble
Jurassic Quest X Brick Fest October 17-20th
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