SEPTEMBER 2026
YOUR #1 HOMETOWN RESOURCE
The Therapy Generation
September Sniffles Explained
Getting to Know: The Grandparents
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The Rise of Therapy Kids Life can be hard, even for kids! But there is always help. Look into the increase in children receiving services and why it matters. 12 Questions Kids Should Ask Their Grandparents Children can get to know their grands with some serious, silly, and sweet q’s. 14
Talking About Suicide with Kids Discover tips on having this hard conversation. 16
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FALL FLAVORS AROUND TOWN Apple, pumpkin, and chai! Oh my! what’s on the web
Why Babies Get Sick More in September Find out the reasons and learn some great tips on staying healthy! 18
RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL Q+A Meet an infamous man of The Mudde Show . PUMPKIN PATCH PREVIEW Opening dates and need to know info. FOOTBALL FOUNDATIONS Find out which players have meaningful missions.
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THE Mama FILES
MEET OUR TEAM AMY L. FOREMAN PUBLISHER EDITORIAL AMANDA MILLER MANAGING EDITOR AMANDA CIANI REBECCA FAST MADELINE PISTORIUS AMELIA ROESSLER JULIANNA STEEN ASSOCIATE EDITORS KAILEY GREMILLION EDITORIAL ASSISTANT ART/PRODUCTION CHLOE ALLEN PRODUCTION MANAGER KAYLA DUPREE MADELINE MILETELLO ASAREL SMITH
MCKINNA SPROLES GRAPHIC DESIGNERS MORGAN ESPENAN DIGITAL CONTENT COORDINATOR NATALIE KAISER SOCIAL MEDIA CONTENT CREATOR MAIH MANUSO CONTENT MULTIPLICATION SPECIALIST TRINITY GRAYSON SARAH MILLER MERCEDES MITCHELL CLIENT SUCCESS REPRESENTATIVES ADVERTISING/MARKETING CRYSTAL BARRETT KAYLA FRICKS GOMEZ RYN WHITESIDE SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES CAMILLE CAVIN THOMAS DRYBURGH JENNIFER HOFFMANN JILLIAN WRAY ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT TERI HODGES DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS ROXANE VOORHIES COMMUNITY OUTREACH ADMINISTRATION BRANDON FOREMAN CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Happy September!
H appy September! Hopefully by now you’ve fallen into your school routine and finally have some sort of normal- cy around the house. I know those last few weeks of summer had me counting the hours until school starts. I love my kids to death, but man, those last few days are nothing but constant fights over everything. September also brings Grandparents Day, which is a little bittersweet for me these days. I was lucky enough to know my great-grand- parents, something I know not everyone gets the chance to do. My great-grandfather was 93 when he passed, and I was with him when he took his final breath. Many of our family traditions began with him, and one of his final comments to me is something I’ll never forget. When I told him I was engaged, his response was, “It’s about time!” Literally lying in his bed, with hospice nurses there and the pastor about to read him his final rites, that is what he had to say to me. And honestly, it was perfect. My children were lucky enough to meet two sets of their great-grandparents. They were too young to really remember them, but we have photos, and occasionally they’ll ask about them.
I’m also very blessed that my children have their grandparents in their lives. Sometimes they’re the first people they call with good news—or even bad news. They stalk them on Life360 just to see where they might be, espe- cially if they’re out somewhere and forgot to bring them! There’s something special about the bond between grandparents and grandchildren. I was always my Grandpa’s girl, while my sister was always Grandma’s. Now, my daughter is Papaw’s girl. She knows he is there anytime she needs him, and I hope she always knows how special that is. So this Grandparents Day, take the pictures. Make the phone call. Ask the questions. Write down the stories—even the ones you’ve heard a hundred times. One day, those stories may be some of the things you treasure most. Happy Grandparents Day to all the Mimis, Pa- pas, Nanas, KKs, Grandmas, Grandpas, Papaws and every other name they answer to. And to the ones we’re missing a little extra this month, Happy Grandparents Day in heaven.
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CONTACT US EDITORIAL@FRG.INC CORPORATE OFFICE (225) 292-0032 3636 S. SHERWOOD FOREST BLVD., STE. 540 BATON ROUGE, LA 70816
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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 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. Some content in this magazine was created with assistance from AI tools and has been reviewed and edited by our human editorial team. We cannot be held responsible for the return of any unsolicited material. CINCINNATI FAMILY MAGAZINE Copyright 2026. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission prohibited. Email amy@frg.inc to tell me about topics you’d like to see in future issues.
6 SEPTEMBER 2026 | CINCINNATIFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM
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Now enrolling for Fall Classes 3-18 yrs
600 Reading Rd, Mason 513.398.0353 MasonDance.com
CINCINNATIFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM | SEPTEMBER 2026 7
feedback
“I Quit!”
wanted to, and I resented them for it. If it is in-between seasons, my kids can decide to not continue an activity they previously did mid-season? Still maybe. It depends.” -Maggie N. “Kids love an activity until it gets hard. But hard practices make game days and perfor- mance days easy. I say: Toughen up.” Sean B. “I can’t handle the whining and I hate nag- ging my kids to get ready when they don’t want to go to practice or games. We end up late with kids crying. I don’t have the energy to fight toddlers about going to practice when they just don’t care about it. If they quit, I quit, too. Clearly we had a bad t-ball experience last year, and I am not over it.” -Stacy D. “Not happening. When you sign up for a sport, you sign up to be a part of a team.” -Chad F. “My daughter had a really hard experience in cheerleading with mean girls. We went to the coaches, and then to the principal. And then we let her quit. It was sad all around. Those mean girls are still mean, but my daughter
has moved onto other activities with more supportive friends.” -Lauren R. “I tell my kids to stick with things they start. Life is full of hard moments, and you can’t always quit.” -Tyler L. “If you don’t like your job, you quit. If you don’t like your house, you move. Life is too short to be unhappy doing anything trivial, so why force kids to do something they want to quit?” -Kelly S. “It has to be a discussion and they have to have good reasons to want to quit. Not just that they don’t like practice because it’s hot.” -Taylor J. “This is us right now! My nine-year old want- ed to play guitar, but is ‘over it’ just because it takes so much work and she isn’t playing full songs yet. We already paid for the sessions, so she is going to go until those run out. Even then, I am going to push her to keep going because learning a new skill doesn’t just happen overnight.” -Sara M.
BY AMANDA CIANI PHOTO BY MAGNIFIC.COM
T he kids are starting to settle into their back-to-school routines, and now it is time to tack on some evening practices and weekend games to the already-busy fam- ily schedule. New cleats for soccer, fresh drum sticks for the budding rock star, fresh ballet slippers for those tiny dancers! The excite- ment is real! Until it isn’t. Sometimes kids go from enthusiastic to dreadful “I don’t want to go!” cries within weeks of starting an extracur- ricular. So we asked, and you answered:
How do you handle when your kid wants to quit an activity before it’s supposed to “end”?
“I think it depends. If they have a bad coach or teacher they don’t like, that’s something I would consider letting them quit. But if it’s just because they are bored of it, it’s going to
be a no.” -Dave R.
“Did I already pay for all of the season or lessons?” -Lacy W.
“My parents didn’t let me quit dance when I
8 SEPTEMBER 2026 | CINCINNATIFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM
CINCINNATIFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM | SEPTEMBER 2026 9
community
So Much to Do at the Zoo!
There’s so much happening at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden this September! First up is Senior SepTENber, where adults ages 62 and older can visit the zoo for $10 on weekdays all month long—a perfect outing for National Grandparents Day on Sept. 13! Next, firefighters, EMTs, police officers, state troopers and other first responders receive free admission Sept. 11- 13 during First Responders Days. The zoo’s annual FUNdraiser, Zoofari, takes place the evening of Sept. 18, and teachers can attend the free Ultimate Educator Expo on Sept. 23. Learn more at cincinnatizoo.org.
PHOTO BY MAGNIFIC.COM
New Museum Wine Pairing Event
Doscher’s Brings Back Candy Tours
A taste of nostalgia awaits visitors at Doscher’s Candy Co. Since opening in 1871, this iconic candy shop has been mak- ing sweets the old-fashioned way—by hand. Now, families can see the process up close during a guided tour! Tours are offered Tuesdays and Thursdays at 8:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m., showcasing the magic behind America’s oldest candy cane company. See candy being made and learn a little sweet history! Walking tours, which include tastings, are $10 for children (12 and under) and $15 for adults. See it. Smell it. Taste it. Learn more at doscherscandies.com.
Cincinnati Museum Center is offering an adults-only evening designed to feel like a culinary trip through the vineyards of coastal Italy! The Intro to Wine Pairings class will take place Sept. 9 from 6-8 p.m., with wine expert Joe Zappasodi of Regional Imports and Executive Chef Jessica Cunning- ham guiding the experience. Participants will savor the flavors of Italy with a six-wine flight and culinary accompaniments while learning why each pairing works so well together. Seating is limited for this ticketed event; learn more at cincymuseum.org.
Cincinnati Observatory Renovation
The Cincinnati Observatory is getting even better! To make that happen, the Herget Building, which houses the Clark Telescope and observatory museum spaces, will be unavailable during renovations. Planned improvements include expanded collections and archive space, addition- al viewing areas for previously undisplayed collection items, and the installation of ADA-com- pliant restrooms. Even though some spaces will be unavailable, don’t fret! Programming and tours will continue in the Mitchel Dome, home to the Mitchel Telescope—the oldest public telescope still available for viewing in this hemisphere. Don’t miss family astronomy nights and telescope viewings; visit cincinnatiobservatory.org for details.
10 SEPTEMBER 2026 | CINCINNATIFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM
community
Goodbye, JumpZone! Hello, Amped Up Fun Factory
When one door closes, another—much better—door opens. JumpZone! in Florence, Ky., closed its doors in August with one final bounce-house sendoff. While the indoor inflatable attraction has come to an end, a new business is quickly taking its place. With two additional units being purchased and renovated, Amped Up Fun Factory will nearly double the square footage of this family destination. Everything is getting an upgrade, including one-of-a-kind playscapes, additional party rooms, expanded play areas and a redesigned entrance and check-in space. Amped Up Fun Factory is expected to open in late 2026. Follow along on Face- book by searching “Amped Up Fun Factory.”
New Oktoberfest Zinzinnati Attraction!
New Covington Skyline
With a taste that’s so divine, you know what time it is—it’s Skyline time! Northern Kentucky families have a brand-new Skyline Chili to add to their rotation. Covington is the newest Skyline Chili location, serving up 3-, 4-, and 5-ways, coneys, salads, bowls, wraps, burritos and more. And this location isn’t your average Cincinnati chili parlor. The re-imagined restaurant features retro diner vibes with checkered floors, a shiny metal ceiling, indoor trees and teal booths. Find your nearest location, browse the menu (and try not to drool!) at skylinechili.com.
Celebrating its milestone 50th anniversary, Oktoberfest Zinzinnati will once again take over Sawyer Point and Yeatman’s Cove this month with music, food, drinks and fun for all ages! Taking place Sept. 17-20, this FREE festival celebrates Cincinnati’s rich German heritage. New this year is a 31-foot clock tower that will become a festival centerpiece, featuring a biergarten on the lower level, a second-story performance stage and a two-story glockenspiel with bells chiming every hour. Find more festival information at oktoberfestzinzinnati.com.
The Bagelry to Open Third Location
Fresh bagels served up every day! With seven types of bagels, an assortment of spreads, plus delicious breakfast and lunch sandwiches, The Bagelry brings tasty NYC flavor with a heaping side of Cincinnati passion. There are currently two locations open, one in Oakley and another in Over-the-Rhine. Bagel-lovers, rejoice! A third location is coming to Montgomery in the fall of 2026. Follow along on social media for construction and opening date updates, and plan your next order at bagelrycincy.com.
CINCINNATIFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM | SEPTEMBER 2026 11
The Rise of Therapy Kids BY JULIANNA STEEN PHOTO BY MAGNIFIC.COM
T he percentage of kids who go to coun- seling is on the rise, according to the CDC. “About one in five adolescents have a current, diagnosed mental or behav- ioral health condition,” the National Library of Medicine’s 2024 survey reports. The same data highlights that between 2016 and 2023, the percentage of kids ages 12–17 who were diagnosed with mental or behavioral issues leaped from 15 percent to 20.3. Not long ago, admitting you go to therapy was taboo. Fortunately, the cultural conver- sation has slowly shifted, normalizing the importance of mental health. One of the few benefits we’ve seen from Covid-19 was that it revealed people need an outlet to process what is going on in their lives. Which begs the question: Does your child need therapy? WHEN KIDS CAN BENEFIT FROM THERAPY Having a safe space is so necessary, but don’t discredit yourself: You have the tools you need to help your kid! There are tons of amaz- ing parental resources out there that can help you navigate different coping mechanisms. Having open, honest conversations with your kids can normalize sharing emotions and feelings so they feel safe to open up and say they need help. But sometimes, you just need
additional resources—or your kid needs to hear it from a third party instead of a parent.
more on your child’s age range or develop- mental stage.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN CHOOSING A THERAPIST
It can be hard to distinguish between normal childhood struggles and something that warrants professional support because every child is different. However, if it’s a persistent struggle at home or a teacher notices issues in the classroom, that might be your cue. Another sign a child could genuinely benefit from therapy is if they ask for it. “Certain life events—divorce, grief, bullying, moving, anxiety, ADHD, trauma—create diffi- cult life stressors” shares adolescent therapist Chatham Kennedy. “Therapy can provide your children with the right tools to navigate all of the emotions that come with these cir- cumstances.” Similarly, traumatic experiences can lead to overwhelming emotions that are important for children to work through and process while in a safe space. HOW EARLY IS TOO EARLY? There’s not an official age range when it comes to starting therapy. However, you want to make sure to work with someone who specializes in your child’s age. Zero to 17 is quite the age gap—even if a therapist’s speciality is children, make sure they focus
“Look for someone that meets your child’s specific needs,” Kennedy says. Whether your child needs help with trauma, ADHD coping skills, or ways to help their anxiety and de- pression, their therapist should be someone they can relate to, making them a safe space. While it is never the therapist’s job to push their beliefs on someone, you may also want to find a therapist whose values align with your own. Moreover, listen to your child to determine if they’re connecting or not. Sometimes an amazing therapist may be the wrong therapist for your child because their specialty or personality doesn’t fit. NORMALIZING EMOTIONS It is really important for children to experi- ence some level of disappointment or failure without immediately trying to “fix” it. “Our nervous system isn’t meant to be a straight line,” Kennedy explains. “It will be filled with positive highs and unfortunately, some difficult lows, and our goal is to teach kids how to deal with these changes in a healthy way.”
12 SEPTEMBER 2026 | CINCINNATIFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM
The aim of therapy isn’t to remove the “bad” emotions: none of our emotions are bad, they all serve a purpose. Rather, it is to help kids learn to care for their emotions instead of shying away from the hard or painful feelings. “A therapist’s job isn’t ever to fix the prob- lem—it’s to empower their client to know they already have all the tools inside of them to tackle the situation at hand, and it’s our job to teach them how to do it,” she adds. SOCIAL MEDIA There are hundreds of studies that point to the fact that despite living in the most connected age ever, people are lonelier than ever. Add puberty to the mix, and it gets a whole lot worse. “Social media often gives you a false sense of connection,” Kennedy warns. “It tears away the vital benefits of in-person connection.” Even if you don’t allow your child to use social media, they have group chats with their friends—they know when they’re not invited to things. The key thing to remember is that what we have access to can foster mental health or be detri- mental to it. The old adage is true: garbage in, garbage out.
situation and age of your child. Nevertheless, there are several things you can do to com- plement therapy at home: • Read books: Seek out resources and do your research! • Ask questions: Figure out the heart behind your child’s actions by asking “Why?”
therapy, open up and share how it’s helped you. Additionally, you can practice vulnerabil- ity at home by sharing things like ‘Mom had a bad day, and this is what I did to feel better.’” Don’t make it a big deal, and don’t be afraid to ask about the hard things. If you have littles, explain that just like how they go to the doctor for their physical health, they are going to see a cool new friend with skills to take care of their mental health. (Except it’s more fun because they play games!) HOW LONG SHOULD THERAPY LAST? Remember, therapy doesn’t have to last for- ever. “My goal as a clinician is for my clients to have the right tools to help navigate complex feelings. We work toward their goals so they can thrive without therapy. When difficult situations arise, they can come back to ther- apy for additional support,” Kennedy states. Equipping your kids with the opportunity to go to therapy now is like putting tools in their toolbox so that they’ll be prepared when they need them down the road. TOOLS & RESOURCES: Watch Toy Story 5 , Inside Out , & Inside Out 2 Read The Anxious Generation , Raising Worry-Free Girls , & Raising Emotionally Strong Boys: Tools Your Son Can Build On for Life.
• Don’t jump to conclusions • Create a space to process
• Expand therapy’s safe space to the home • If teens use clinical terms like “trauma,”“trig- gered,” or “anxiety,” ask them why they are using that language, what those things mean to them, and what that looks like? Get specific. While the intention of therapy is to help your child, it is also to help equip you to parent well. “So much of therapy with kids involves equipping parents with tools and resources to help their children thrive,” explains Kennedy. HOW TO TALK ABOUT THERAPY Many teachers are leading the way in teach- ing kids how to talk about emotions. Even still, it can be intimidating to be vulnerable, share your feelings, and admit you need help. So normalize it in your home. Personally, I felt safe to go to counseling because I saw my dad go and open up about it. “Create space for vulnerability and practice healthy trans- parency,” Kennedy encourages. “If you go to
A PARENT’S ROLE IN APPROACHING THERAPY
Every situation is subjective, so the appro- priate involvement for you depends on the
CINCINNATIFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM | SEPTEMBER 2026 13
Questions Kids Should Ask Their Grandparents (While They Still Can)
BY MADELINE PISTORIUS PHOTO BY MAGNIFIC.COM
B efore they were Grandma and Grand- pa, they were kids, teenagers, stu- dents, and young adults with dreams, adventures, and plenty of stories to tell. This conversation guide will help your kids discover the moments that shaped the grandparents they know today. Sometimes, all it takes is one question to hear a story that changes the way a child sees the person they love—or even the way they see the world. As you chat, hit record. Whether you use your phone’s video camera or a voice recorder, capture the stories, laughs, and little details that can fade with time. Before you begin, say the date, everyone’s names, and each person’s age. Years from now, you’ll be glad these details were recorded, too.
Find a cozy spot, press record, and enjoy the trip down memory lane! TELL ME ABOUT YOUR CHILDHOOD… What street did you grow up on, and what is your favorite memory from there? What games did you play when you were my age? Did you have a family pet? What were your parents and grandparents like? What were holidays like when you were growing up? Were you in any sports, clubs, or activities? TELL ME ABOUT YOUR LOVE STORY… How did you meet Grandma/Grandpa, and
When did you know you wanted to get married? What do you remember about your wedding day? What is the funniest thing that has happened in your relationship? What is something you admire about each other? TELL ME ABOUT LIFE GROWING UP… What major historical events happened during your young adult years? What fashion trend did you love living through (or regret being a part of)? Have you ever been on television or in the newspaper? Who were your best friends growing up? What was your very first job?
what was your first impression? What was your first date like?
14 SEPTEMBER 2026 | CINCINNATIFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM
TELL ME ABOUT YOUR LIFE BEFORE ME… What is something you were passionate
about when you were young? Do you have a secret talent?
Did you ever call another place home? What’s the hardest thing you’ve ever had to do? What did you want to be when you grew up? If you could relive one day, which day would it be? TELL ME YOUR FAVORITES… Do you have a favorite family recipe? Who is your role model? What is something you could never get tired of doing? What is your favorite time of day and why? What was your favorite movie, book, and song? TELL ME ABOUT OUR FAMILY… Do you have any funny stories about my mom/dad when they were growing up? What family story should never be forgotten? What is your favorite family tradition? What was my parent’s first word or favorite toy? Who in our family is most like you? TELL ME ABOUT YOUR ADVENTURES… When was the longest you’ve been away from home? What is your favorite place you’ve ever visited? What is something brave you did? What is a memory that always makes you smile? What is one experience that changed your life? TELL ME WHAT YOU’VE LEARNED… What do you wish you knew when you were my age? What makes someone a good friend? What is something you think is worth spending my time on? What is something people worry about that they shouldn’t? What is a mistake you’ve made that taught
you something important? What is one thing you hope I always remember?
Grandparents are an important part of our families, and taking the time to reminisce can uncover memories, life lessons, and family stories you may have never heard before. One day, these recordings may become some of your family’s most treasured keepsakes!
From all of us at Cincinnati Family Magazine , Happy Grandparents Day!
CINCINNATIFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM | SEPTEMBER 2026 15
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Feeling sad or irritable more often than normal Sleeping or eating more or less than usual Showing little to no interest in pleasur- able activities
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Withdrawing from others
Participating in reckless behavior that is out of character Engaging in self-injurious behavior
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Note: According to Child Mind Institute, a family history of suicide, bullying, and access to things like firearms and pills can also all be factors that may put a child at risk. Knowing the Age Difference Ages 3–6 Can young children understand death? Should you mention suicide to them? What if they overhear adults talking? How honest should I be? Questions like that are asked by parents all the time. Experts advise to use simple language when talking to young children and avoid euphemisms like “went to sleep.” Make sure to reassure children that they are safe, and encourage questions. Ages 7–10 Kids this age may hear about suicide at school, on YouTube, or from classmates. Now, parents might have more questions like: What if my child hears about suicide at school? How much detail should I give? Can talking about suicide plant the idea? Experts say that talking about suicide does not increase suicide thoughts, and that it’s important to correct misinformation. Ask them what they’ve already heard about the topic and go from there. Ages 11–13 (Tweens) What if my child mentions self-harm? How do I know if they’re joking? When should I worry? At this stage, parents should familiarize themselves with the warning signs and ways to help emotional regulation. Check online influences and peer pressure, but make sure your child knows they are loved and can receive help. Ages 14–18 (Teens) Parents of teens know that emotions are complicated and understanding them can be even more difficult. Questions like, “Should I ask directly if they’re thinking about suicide?” or “What if they say yes?” can float around. Here, some experts recommend asking di- rectly and calmly. Listen without judgement. Take every mention seriously.
Talking About Suicide With Kids BY AMELIA ROESSLER
T here may be no conversation a parent fears more than asking, “Are you thinking about hurting yourself?” It’s a question parents hope they will never have to ask—but mental health experts say asking directly, calmly, and without judgment can save a child’s life. Suicide is the second leading cause of death for 10- to 19-year-olds. Most children and ad- olescents who attempt suicide show warning signs, and it is vital that families are aware of these signs and discuss concerns, ideally prior to a life-threatening mental health crisis. Understanding Suicide According to research by the Nationwide Children’s Hospital, suicide attempts are far more common than deaths by suicide, but any suicidal behavior is serious and can have lasting consequences. Most teens who are suicidal do not actually wish to die, but are in severe emotional pain and want the pain to stop. They may not know how to move forward and are unsure of ways to feel better. The good news is that suicides are largely preventable through early identification, timely treatment, and support. Suicide exists on a spectrum. From thoughts about dying (suicidal ideation) to suicide attempts and death by suicide, experts emphasize that any mention of sui- cide should be taken seriously with immedi- ate attention. While the prevalence of mental health disorders and rates of suicide increase as children grow older, research suggests that about five percent of 9- and 10-year-olds have experienced thoughts of suicide.
Fact: Research consistently shows asking directly does not increase suicidal thoughts. For children who have a hard time admitting they need help, having a conversation sends the message that a parent cares very much about them, and that struggling and asking for help is okay—asking can be lifesaving. See the Signs When a child talks about or posts online or on social media about wanting to die or hurt themselves on purpose, response should be immediate. Children expressing themselves through such ideas are typically experiencing emotional distress and may not know how to navigate these stressful experiences. The following warning signs, provided by the Nationwide Children’s Hospital, indicate that a youth is severely depressed or at risk for suicide:
Talking to others or posting on social media about: •
Suicide or wanting to die or feeling hopeless, trapped, or like they are “a burden” to others Looking for ways to kill themselves by gathering medications, sharp objects, or firearms or searching online for ways to end their life Expressing unbearable emotional pain Visiting, calling, or reaching out to people to say “goodbye.” Giving away prized possessions Suddenly becoming calm or cheerful after a long period of depression
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The following warning signs indicate that a youth may be struggling with depression, which requires evaluation by a mental health professional:
Myth: Talking about suicide puts the idea in a child’s head.
16 SEPTEMBER 2026 | CINCINNATIFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM
College Age/Young Adults Your child has now probably moved out of the house at this stage—how can you tell if they’re struggling? How often should you check in? What if they stop responding? Show interest and be supportive. Be direct, and ask them if they are consider- ing suicide. Don’t be judgmental, give advice, or try to talk them out of suicide (and don’t swear to secrecy). What to Do Now? Say you’ve approached your child directly about where they are at mentally. You’ve taken an important first step! Great guided follow-up questions include: How have you been feeling lately? I’ve noticed you’ve been down; can you tell me more about that? It seems like you’ve been sad. Did something happen at school? Sometimes when people are feeling the way you are, they think about suicide—have you ever had those thoughts before?
“I’m here with you.” “We’re going to figure this out together.”
children in the awareness that help is always available are key roles in building a child’s mental health.
After expressing thoughts of suicide, creating a safety plan with your child for those days that they’re having suicidal thoughts or feeling sad and lonely can be imporant. Take practical safety measures like removing access to guns and conducting room checks, but also make sure to look for ways to lean into the things that they love or even avoid things that aren’t helpful. Therapy is another solid option to introduce. While having conversations at home will help you better understand where your child is at, a licensed therapist who specializes in child psychiatry and mental health could help make sense of your child’s emotions and work one-on-one with your family. Not quite ready for this step? That’s okay! Speaking to a pediatrician or a primary care provider can be another great step for navigating where your child is at and accessing helpful resources in your area. Prevention & Resources By educating ourselves, we can learn what puts kids at the greatest risk for suicide and what protects them most strongly. Aware- ness of risk factors and warning signs, making ourselves available, and practicing assisting
Parents should seek immediate help if a child: • Talks about wanting to die or kill themselves •
Has a plan or access to lethal means Gives away possessions or says goodbye Expresses hopelessness or feeling like a burden Shows sudden, dramatic behavioral changes after a period of depression If someone is in immediate danger, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department. Anyone experiencing emotional distress or concerned about someone else can also contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988 for immediate support.
• •
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Parents don’t need to have perfect answers. They simply need to be willing to ask hard questions, listen without judgment, and remind their children that they never have to face life’s hardest moments alone. Conversa- tions about suicide can feel overwhelming— but they can also be the first step towards hope and healing.
What not to say: “You have nothing to be sad about.” “Other kids have it worse.” “You’re just looking for attention.” “Don’t be dramatic.”
Instead, say: “I’m glad you told me.”
There are many effective ways to reduce stuttering. Doing nothing is not one of them.
We can help, but you have to take the first step. We’re here for you.
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CINCINNATIFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM | SEPTEMBER 2026 17
Why Babies Get Sick More in September (and Why It’s Usually Normal) BY AMANDA MILLER I f it feels like your baby has had a runny nose since Labor Day, you’re not imagining it.
can help parents feel more prepared during the fall months. Here’s what experts want families to know about September’s “sick season” and how to keep little ones healthy. WHY SEPTEMBER IS THE PERFECT STORM FOR GERMS So why does September seem to kick off “sick season” every year? Dr. Michael Bolton, a pediatric infectious dis- ease specialist with FMOL Health | Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Health, says, “It is mostly because the temperature becomes more hospitable to viruses, allowing them to survive and replicate more easily as temperatures decrease. Additionally, cooler temperatures tend to dry out the nasal passages, making it more difficult for the body to clear viruses after exposure. Going back to school is often thought of as a major contributor, and while there are some trends to support that, it is not the only reason.” BABIES VERSUS OLDER KIDS Babies do tend to get sick more often than older children, and there’s a good reason why. Their immune systems are still learning
how to recognize and fight off the many viruses they encounter for the first time.
Babies are born with some protection from antibodies passed along from their moth- ers during pregnancy, but that protection doesn’t last forever. Dr. Bolton explains that those maternal antibodies gradually decrease during the first year of life as babies begin building their own immune responses. Every cold, cough, or virus exposure gives a baby’s immune system a chance to learn. Dr. Robert Frenck, a pediatrician at Cincinnati Children’s and director of the health system’s Vaccine Research Center, says, “A child’s immune system becomes better, some say trained, by being exposed to infections and developing its own antibodies.” WHAT PARENTS CAN EXPECT As fall respiratory season begins, parents are likely to see a variety of viruses, including the common cold, croup, RSV, influenza, and COVID-19. Ear infections can also become more common after viral infections, and stomach bugs like rotavirus and norovirus tend to circulate more often during the fall and winter months.
For many families, September marks the beginning of what can feel like an endless cycle of sniffles, coughs, fevers, and doctor visits. All it takes is one child bringing home a virus from daycare before the entire family is fighting off the same bug. And just as every- one starts to feel better, another illness seems to make its way through the house. While it can be frustrating and exhausting, experts say there’s a reason so many babies and young children seem to get sick as soon as fall arrives. September brings together the perfect combination of back-to-school germs and cooler weather, making it easier for viruses to spread. Dr. Gary Grosel, Chief Medical Officer of Unit- edHealthcare, explains, “Babies’ immune sys- tems are still developing. They have not yet been exposed to many everyday viruses, so their bodies are building protection (known as antibodies) one illness at a time.”
Understanding why these illnesses happen
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Dr. Frenck says young children can experi- ence an average of 8–10 respiratory infec- tions each year during their first two years of life. Many of these illnesses can look similar at first. Dr. Grosel explains that symptoms may include a runny nose, cough, fever, fussiness, or poor feeding. For parents, it is often less about identifying the exact virus and more about paying attention to how their baby is doing overall, especially their breathing, hydration, and energy level. HELPING BABIES STAY HEALTHY While there’s no way to avoid every sniffle or cough, there are simple steps families can take to help reduce the spread of germs and support their baby’s health during sick season. The experts share that the basics still matter: wash hands often, clean frequently touched toys and surfaces, keep children home when they are sick, avoid sharing cups or utensils, and stay up to date on recommended vac- cines. Healthy routines also play an important role. Adequate sleep, hydration, and consistent schedules help babies’ bodies function and recover when illness does happen.
constantly after starting daycare or pre- school, Dr. Grosel offers reassurance: “The first year in daycare or preschool often feels like one illness after another because a child is meeting many viruses for the first time. Most healthy children recover well and build immune memory over time.” WHEN TO CALL THE PEDIATRICIAN Most childhood illnesses can be managed with rest, fluids, and plenty of cuddles, but parents should contact their pediatrician if their baby has: a fever in a baby younger than three months, trouble breathing, signs of dehydration, unusual sleepiness or difficul- ty waking, and symptoms that are getting worse instead of better. Above all, trust your instincts. Dr. Grosel reminds parents that they should always call their pediatrician if they are worried. THE BOTTOM LINE While no parent enjoys seeing their little one sick, these first years won’t always be filled with back-to-back illnesses. As babies grow, so do their immune systems, and with time, many families find that the sick season becomes a little easier to manage. IMMUNE-SUPPORTING FOODS FOR BABIES AND TODDLERS Good nutrition can’t stop every cold, but it
can help support your child’s developing immune system year-round. Malina Malkani, MS, RDN, CDN, LDN, BLW, a child feeding expert and author of Safe and Simple Food Allergy Prevention , encourages parents to focus on variety by offering fruits, vegetables, protein-rich foods, whole grains, healthy fats, and dairy products throughout the week. Some nutrient-rich foods to keep in rotation include: Sweet potatoes, pumpkin, and butternut squash: Rich in beta-carotene, which sup- ports immune function.
Berries, oranges, kiwi, and broccoli: Provide vitamin C and other important nutrients.
Eggs, meat, beans, and dairy: Offer protein, iron, and zinc to support growth and immunity. Avocado, olive oil, and nut butters: Provide healthy fats important for development. Yogurt and kefir: Probiotic-rich foods that support a healthy gut microbiome. Small additions can make a big difference. Try mixing berries into oatmeal, adding yogurt to snacks, or pairing a new food with a familiar favorite.
For parents whose babies seem to be sick
CINCINNATIFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM | SEPTEMBER 2026 19
Things to Do SEPTEMBER
Super Sprouts 1 Garden Club
This fun garden club is short, sweet and packed full of discovery and play. Glenwood Gardens Highfield Discovery Center, 10:30 a.m. Fridays. Fee waived for highfield discovery garden passholders. greatparks.org
20 SEPTEMBER 2026 | CINCINNATIFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM
Riverfest 3
WEBN and Western/Southern’s annual spectacle of light, color, and sound. Families can spend time on the banks of the Ohio River before taking in a Rozzi’s Fireworks show. Sawyer Point/ Newport Festival Park, September 6. Free. webn.iheart.com
2 Hear ye, hear ye! Head to the ORF for fantasy and his- tory in the form of 67 shows, 169 daily performances, 215 shops, fabulous food, and 9 themed weekends of fun. Renaissance Park, Sat-Sun through Nov. 1. $10- 39. renfestival.com Ohio Renaissance Festival
5 Steam Train Days
First Responders Day 4
Choo, choo! Experience a historic train ride on a real working steam engine! Lebanon Train Fest will also be happening Septem- ber 12-13, too. LM&M Railroad, Sep 12-13, 19-20. $20+. lebanonrr.com
Those who protect the community, including active fire, police, safety per- sonnel and active and retired military, can enjoy free admission to the zoo. Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, September 11-13. Free for qualifying personnel + 50% off for up to six family members. cincinnatizoo.org
HEADS UP!
Events may change after publication deadline. Please phone ahead to confirm important information.
CINCINNATIFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM | SEPTEMBER 2026 21
6 The Great Gatsby The Roaring Twenties take to the stage with an explosion of life, energy, and a jazz- and pop-in- fluenced original score. Aronoff Center, September 15-27. $41+. cincinnatiarts.org
Cliftonfest 9
Take to the streets for a full day of live music, local art including 25+ chalk artists, food, and community spirit. Clifton Gaslight District, September
26: noon-11 p.m. Free. cliftonculturalarts.org
7 Educator
Open House
Educators and homeschool co-ops are welcomed to learn about Newport Aquarium field trips. Newport Aquarium, Sep- tember 17, 4-6 p.m. Free; RSVP. newportaquarium.com
10
Sign Crafting Saturday
Children can play with different materials while learning about different elements of sign mak- ing. American Sign Museum, September 26: 1-3 p.m. $10-20, free for children 12 and younger. americansignmuseum.org
8
A long-standing Cincinnati tradition, this fun family festival will feature a perfor- mance by The Foles Band, kids’ crafts and activities, food and drink trucks. Ault Park Pavilion, September 19: 6-10 p.m. Free. aultparkac.org Summer Music Festival
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FLORENCE Y’ALLS VS. WINDY CITY THUNDERBOLTS Fan Appreciation Night and Firework Friday! Thomas More Stadium, 6:44 p.m. $13+. florenceyalls.com POP-UP PLAY ~ With Cincinnati Public Library. Ziegler Park, 3-6 p.m. zieglerpark.org STORYTIME ON THE FARM ~ This weekly storytime will put the spotlight on a new nature story, followed by activities based on the week’s book! Winton Woods, 10:30-11:15 a.m. greatparks.org
Farm Encounters Walk see September 5
~ = FREE EVENT
SUPER SPROUTS GARDEN CLUB
to do today
This weekly garden club is tons of fun for little naturalists. Glenwood Gardens, 10:30 a.m. $7. greatparks.org sat 5 ARTISANFEST 513 ~ Browse handmade goods, original artwork, jewelry, home décor and more from local artisans during this outdoor marketplace. Washington Park, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. washingtonpark.org ART ON THE RISE ~ Venture to the Art Climb for a fun morning of live performances and art-making activities. Cincinnati Art Museum, 9-11 a.m. cincinnatiartmuseum.org CIN REDS VS. MIL BREWERS Get to the game early to snag a Elly De La Cruz City Connect 2.0 Bobblehead giveaway, while sup- plies last. Great American Ball Park, 6:40 p.m. $14+. mlb.com/reds
Cincinnati Art Museum, 11 a.m.-5 p.m., exhibition runs through October 18. $17. cincinnatiartmuseum.org wed 2 DELHI CONCERT IN THE PARK ~ Featuring Forever Diamond. Delhi Park Performance Pavilion, 7-9:30 p.m. delhi.oh.us FAIRFIELD FARMERS MARKET ~ Shop fresh produce, baked goods, handmade crafts and seasonal finds from local vendors. Fairfield Community Arts Center Parking Lot, 4-7 p.m. Free. fairfield-city.org POP-UP PLAY ~ Drop in for an afternoon of hands- on crafts, games and creative activities designed to spark young imaginations. Imagination Alley, 4-6 p.m. imaginationalleyotr.com YOUTH MOUNTAIN BIKE RIDE ~ Beginners welcome; come test out the new Mt. Airy Bike Skills Course with the Adventure Crew. Mt. Airy Park, 5-7 p.m. cincinnatiparksfoundation.org thu 3 THE GOLDEN ERA, DECLINE AND RENAISSANCE OF THE AMERICAN CAROUSEL With Danielle Benningnus. Learn about the history of the American carousel, from its golden age to
its modern-day revival. American Sign Museum, 7-8 p.m. $5-25. americansignmuseum.org HIDE & SEEK BINGO ~ Fill out bingo squares and go on an epic nature challenge to see what can be found on the farm. Winton Woods Farm, 10:30-11:30 a.m. or 1:30-2:30 p.m. registration required. greatparks.org OPEN HOUSE WITH FRIENDS ~ Meet the park district and community organizations while enjoying live music, refreshments and lawn games. Pattison Park
tue 1
ANIMAL TALES ~ Enjoy a nature-themed story and hands-on activity designed to spark curiosity about the outdoors. Woodland Mound, 10-11 a.m. greatparks.org CINEMA ~ Head online to see what the fea- ture film will be! Washington Park, 9 p.m. washingtonpark.org CIN REDS VS. SD PADRES Enjoy savings during 3-2-1 Tuesday. Great American Ball Park, 6:40 p.m. $8+. mlb.com/reds POP UP PLAY ~ Get moving with Brandi Bee Yoga. Washington Park, 11 a.m., washingtonpark.org ALL THE ETERNAL LOVE I HAVE FOR THE PUMPKINS Experience the immersive Infinity Mirror Room installation featuring glowing polka-dotted pumpkins.
Lodgeside, 4-7 p.m. clermontparks.org
THURSDAY ART PLAY Little ones can experiment with watercolor and mixed materials. Contemporary Arts Center, noon. Free for members, $5 per child. contemporaryartscenter.org ZIEGLER PARK TEEN SERIES ~ Teens can connect with friends through activities like talent shows, career fairs, creative work- shops, sports and more. Ziegler Park, 4-7 p.m. zieglerpark.org fri 4 CIN REDS VS. MIL BREWERS Stick around for a post-game fireworks show. Great American Ball Park, 6:10 p.m. $23+. mlb.com/reds
FAMILY FAIRY GARDEN TEA PARTY
Spend a magical morning in the garden sampling herbal tea with fresh honey, playing lawn games, going on a scavenger hunt, and making a fairy-inspired craft. Win- ton Woods, 10:30 a.m.-noon. $15 per child. greatparks.org FARM ENCOUNTERS WALK Take a guided tour to meet the animals, explore the gardens and learn about seasonal life on the farm. Gorman Heritage Farm, 10
VISIT OUR DIGITAL CALENDAR FOR MORE EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES
CINCINNATIFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM | SEPTEMBER 2026 23
WESTERN & SOUTHERN WEBN RIVERFEST ~
9/11 MEMORIAL RUN/WALK AND
REMEMBRANCE CEREMONY ~ Remember and honor the victims and heroes of September 11, 2001. Summit Park of Blue Ash, 9 a.m.- noon. summitparkblueash.com FIRST RESPONDERS DAYS ~ Active first responders and military members receive free admission, with discounted tickets available for eligible family members during this appreciation weekend at the zoo. Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, Sep. 11-13. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free for eligible first responders and military. cincinnatizoo.org
Put your blankets and towels out early, and get ready for the 50th annual riveting Rozzi’s famous fireworks show that takes over the NKY and Cincinnati riverfronts. Sawyer Point, Newport Festival Park, 3-10 p.m. webn.iheart.com mon 7 ZIEGLER HOOPS ~ Teens can hit the court for 3-on-3 pickup basketball and friendly competition. Ziegler Park, 5-7 p.m. zieglerpark.org tue 8 WILD SENSES Make nature discoveries and feed the Rowe Visitor Center’s resident non-venomous snake! Cincinnati Nature Center, 11-11:15 a.m. $8-12, free with membership. cincynature.org wed 9 ZUMBINI Little ones can move their bodies and have tons of fun during this weekly high-energy singing, dancing, instrument-playing class. Lilypad Play Cincinnati, Wednes- days, 9:15-10 a.m. $18, includes daily play pass. queencityzbini.com thu 10 HARVEST HOME FAIR Head to the west side for four days of live music, festival food, a 4-H tent, games galore, and rides! Harvest Home Park Lodge, Sep. 10-13. $5 admission; Free for 12 and younger and first responders/ Veterans. harvesthomefair.com ROCKIN’THE ROEBLING ~ Featuring Noah Smith. Schmidlapp Event Lawn, 6:30-9:30 p.m. cincinnati-oh.gov THURSDAY ART PLAY Creatives kids can use recycled and repurposed materials to create sculpture and collage masterpiec- es. Contemporary Arts Center, noon. Free for members, $5 per child. contemporaryartscenter.org fri 11
Zumbini see September 9
a.m. or 12:30 p.m. $10-15. gormanfarm.org
Town Hall, 10 a.m. westsidemarketcincy.com sun 6
HEART OF COUNTRY MUSIC FESTIVAL
FC CINCINNATI PRE-MATCH AT THE PARK ~ Get game-day ready with music, food trucks, inflatable games, vendors and family-friendly activ- ities. Washington Park, 4-6:30 p.m. washingtonpark.org FLORENCE Y’ALLS VS. WINDY CITY THUNDERBOLTS Oktoberfest and Rockin’ Saturday. Thomas More Stadium, 6:44 p.m. $13+. florenceyalls.com HOMECOMING WEEKEND @ ORF Step back in time to the 16th cen- tury during the opening weekend of the Ohio Renaissance Festival! Ohio Renaissance Festival, 10:30 a.m. -7:30 p.m. Sep 5-7. $10-33. renfestival.com LA LA LAND IN CONCERT Celebrate the 10th anniversary of this fan fave with a swoon-worthy live-to-film concert. Music Hall,
Two nights of terrific country mu- sic performances! Kenton County Fairgrounds, Sep. 11-12, 4 p.m. $89+. heartofcountryfest.com HORRORHOUND WEEKEND Meet celebrity guests, browse vendors and celebrate all things frightful during this fan-favorite convention. Sharonville Convention Center, 5-10 p.m. $30+, free for children 12 and younger. horrorhoundweekend.com MAKE WAVES GALA Support WAVE Foundation during this adults-only evening featuring food, drinks, animal encounters, and live entertainment. Newport Aquarium, 7:30-11:30 p.m. $90+. wavefoundation.org MUSIC UNDER THE MOON This grown-ups only concert fea- tures Jim Tace & The Makers, food trucks, and drinks, too! Cincinnati Nature Center, 7-10 p.m. $25-37. cincynature.org sat 12 FANTASY WEEKEND @ ORF Ohio Renaissance Festival, 10:30 a.m.-7:30 p.m.. Sep 12-13. $10-33. renfestival.com FISHING FOR BEGINNERS Learn fishing basics including safety, casting, baiting hooks and identifying fish during this beginner-friendly outdoor program. Lake Isabella, 1-3 p.m. $10-13. greatparks.org
ART ON VINE ~ Shop handmade jewelry, fine art, apparel, home décor and more from more than 80 local artists and makers during this weekly artisan market. Elm Street Plaza, noon-6 p.m. artonvinecincy.com CIN REDS VS. MIL BREWERS Great American Ball Park, 12:10 p.m. $8+. mlb.com/reds FLORENCE Y’ALLS VS. WINDY CITY THUNDERBOLTS Family Sunday and Bark in the Park! Bring the pooches and the whole family for a ballgame. Thomas More Stadium, 1:07 p.m. $13+. florenceyalls.com
HYDE PARK FARMERS MARKET ~
Browse fresh produce, flowers, baked goods and locally made foods from regional farmers and artisans. Hyde Park Square, 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. hydeparkfarmersmarket.com MOVIE NIGHT ~ Bring the family for an outdoor movie under the stars with freshly popped popcorn. Imagination Alley, 8:30-10:30 p.m. imaginationalleyotr.com STEM FAMILY SUNDAY Families can explore hands-on STEM activities before experienc- ing the thrill of indoor skydiving together. iFLY Indoor Skydiving Cincinnati, 4-6:30 p.m. $52. iflyworld.com
7:30 p.m., Sep. 6: 2 p.m. cincinnatisymphony.org
OUTDOOR ART PARTY ~ Teens can find inspiration in the great outdoors while creating nature art! Nature Center at The Summit, 3-4 p.m. greatparks.org STORYTIME IN THE GARDEN Enjoy the whimsical tale Wiggling Worms at Work by Wendy Pfeffer before themed activities that bring the book to life! Glenwood Gardens, 11-11:30 a.m. $7. greatparks.org
WESTSIDE MARKET ~ Eat and shop local! Westwood
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