Local Thyme: Hidden Gem No More!

By

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February 28, 2019

The Short Course

Kid-friendly: Yes! There is a large selection of toys, books, coloring books etc.
To avoid wait: Anytime, but dinner hours can be busier.
Noise level: Moderate to loud depending on how busy they are.
Bathroom amenities: No changing station.
High Chairs: Yes.
Got milk? Yes.
Kids’ menu? Yes, and kids 10 and under eat free on Tuesdays with purchase of an entrée.
Allergy info: Be sure to alert your server prior to ordering so they can be sure there is no cross contamination.

Trying out new restaurants never gets old for me and the kids. That being said, I will continue to conger up my own preconceived notions about a place, good or bad, and I will continue being spot on only fifty percent of the time. Recently, the boys and I stopped by a local restaurant that I had thought might be a local dive. This would prove to be one of those times I was very wrong.

A local hidden gem

The Local Thyme Restaurant and Bar (Local Thyme for short), has been a staple in downtown Whitehouse for years. Though it opened in 2007, Skip Walker bought it in 2013 and made it his own.

According to general manager Kristopher Bailey, “He (Skip) painted, stained, decorated, and remodeled the entire store mostly by himself. In my opinion he is an all American example of what a little hard work and heartfelt passion will get you when you set a goal and expect no other outcome than that of perfection.”

Not long ago Toledo City Paper readers voted Local Thyme a hidden gem. And to be honest, I’m not sure a lot of my friends are familiar with it; other than the ones that live out that direction and eat there regularly. So regularly, that when I asked them last minute to join us for dinner they said, “Unfortunately we already have plans, but we ate there last night! You’ll love it!” The word is out and I’m thinking it may soon lose the “hidden gem” status. That’s not a bad thing.

Friendly service and delicious eats

Along with a few food suggestions, my friend was also sure to tell me the people are nice and the service is great. We were looking forward to checking it out. It was a Sunday evening about 6pm when we arrived. The place was hopping and filled with families.There is a separate dining area away from the bar that is especially nice for families or anyone wanting a quieter evening. There is even a dedicated area for the kids to choose books, toys, coloring books, and more to keep them occupied. As Mr. Bailey put it, they really look to be a family restaurant, yet they want the parents to feel like they have a little bit of a break as well.

Tory was our fabulous and friendly server. She was very helpful as we struggled to select our entrees. The boys and I planned to try three things and share them all equally. Can you guess where this is going? A couple bites were shared and then they laid claim to their plates and that was the end of the sharing. One thing we did share was their GIANT soft pretzel served with a variety of dipping sauces and cheese. We had to set it aside during dinner, but ate the rest of it for dessert and dipped it in the cinnamon butter. Delicious!

Their chicken chunks, fresh and flavorful, are prepared a variety of ways. We also tried a fresh made burger and fries as well as their homemade mac ‘n cheese with pork belly on top. Mr. Bailey pointed out that they smoke their meats in house, as well as most everything else. They have a smoker outside and he told me the smoked corned beef Rueben is amazing.

Kids also eat free on Tuesdays. However, most meals are about $5.99 and include drink, applesauce, and fries. That’s a pretty good deal, even if it isn’t Tuesday.

Small town, big fun

Check out their calendar for live music and special events such as their 80’s party, or the summer family friendly beach party. Last year they unloaded five tons of sand in the parking lot. I think that’s a party I won’t want to miss this year. They are open late and open seven days a week so there is always some kind of fun (or friendly face) awaiting you.

Bottom Line:
You will be made to feel like one of the locals, whether you are or not, at Local Thyme. The great service and food will be reason enough to return. But the fact you don’t have to BYOT (bring your own toys) for the kids is a bonus. Parents may actually relax even with the little ones in tow. And kids eat free on Tuesday!

Medela Launches New Products

By

Kimberly Feldkamp

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February 28, 2019

The first 30 days of breastfeeding can be the toughest for a mom, with many moms stopping earlier than planned. To help moms reach their breastfeeding goals, Medela has launched new products and services, including the PersonalFit Flex breast shield to help moms pump over 11% more breast milk, faster. Medela has also expanded access to 24/7 LC, an around-the-clock lactation service that provides live, on-demand lactation support for moms anytime there are questions, need for support or just encouragement.

You can find Medela on the My Medla app.

Signs, Symptoms and Statistics of Sibling Sexual Abuse

By

Jamie Lober

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February 28, 2019

What you need to know

Sibling Sexual Abuse isn’t something we want to think about, much less talk about. But it’s actually more common than you might know and it’s important to be educated on what to watch for. When families hear the term sex offender they think of an adult. The reality is that, according to the U.S. Department of Justice, one-third of sex offenses against kids are committed by minors. Mothers of Sexually Abused Children defined sibling sexual abuse as a more powerful sibling who is older and/or stronger coercing a younger sibling into sexual activity through force, the threat of force, bribes or a promise of special attention or gift to make the victim keep the abuse secret.

“Sibling sexual abuse has been around for a very long time and statistics show it has increased because of exposure to pornography as well as the prevalence of adult to child sexual abuse,” said Dr. Mel Lengston, counselor with Mothers of Sexually Abused Children in Astoria, Oregon.

What to do

It’s important to know signs to watch for, what kinds of conversations to have and what is considered normal childhood curiosity versus crossing the line.

“After a child has been sexually abused by a sibling they may exhibit a variety of behavioral changes such as poor self-esteem, PTSD symptoms, self-blame, nightmares, aggressiveness, age-inappropriate sexual behaviors and unhealthy coping habits such as drug use or self-harm,” said Tristin Crawley, program coordinator of the child abuse prevention program at the Family and Child Abuse Prevention Center in Toledo.

If you think one of your children could be an abuser or a victim, ask yourself if the behavior is age-appropriate, how long it has been going on, if one of the siblings is forced to participate and what the purpose may be. “There is normal sexual exploration but when a child shows specific behaviors, they are showing knowledge that should not be present (without exposure to that information),” said Lengston.

Trust your child

The biggest thing you can do is take your child’s word for it. “Very few children lie about sibling sexual abuse so I have a mantra that says believe, support and protect,” said Lengston. Even though it is a family member, sibling sexual abuse must be reported. “If a sibling abuses a sibling that is as serious as him abusing anybody else because it sets up a pattern for abusive behaviors.”

By keeping open lines of communication, your child should feel more comfortable coming to you to discuss serious issues like sexual abuse. “It is complex because the child will always love that family member and not want to get them in trouble so he will be confused,” said Lengston.

Communicate and prevent

It’s never too early to talk to your child about what behavior is okay and what is not. Teach your child not to keep secrets from you. “Know that it is okay to talk about sexual abuse because you do not have secrets. A lot of times the offender says this is just between us and this is our secret,” said Sarah Hall, counselor.

Experts also suggest that your child has a safe space. Talk about and review safety strategies with your child. “Teach your children to ask permission before they hug someone; do not force him to show affection to friends or family members; talk openly about sexual matters in a developmentally appropriate and respectful way; talk about the difference between safe and unsafe touches and allow children to help themselves in the bathroom or shower if they can,” said Crawley.

Be informed

“The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention did a study that people did not want to believe but in a predominantly college-educated neighborhood 1 out of every 4 girls and 1 out of every 6 boys has been sexually abused by the age of 18,” said Lengston.

Monitoring screen time and having filters on devices can have a positive impact. “22 percent of all pornography that was viewed by children under 18 was viewed by children under 10 because they have phones with internet connections,” said Lengston.

Seek help

If your family is affected by sibling sexual abuse, it’s important to bring it out in the open, talk about it and seek help.

“A lot of times people are afraid to seek professional guidance but more times than not we are able to give guidance and help them with the behaviors,” said Michelle Coutcher, a local clinical social worker/therapist with an office in Oregon. “That professional guidance is necessary for the whole family to heal.”

Pediatric Dentist Profiles

By

Toledo Parent Staff

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February 13, 2019

Special Advertising Section

February is National Children’s Dental Health month. The American Dental Association encourages parents and caregivers to promote healthy habits and talk about the benefits of good oral health from a young age. If you’re looking for a pediatric dentist in town, or need some tips for keeping your child’s smile bright, we’ve rounded up advice from some of the best in town.

Sylvania Pediatric Dental Care

5860 Alexis Rd. | 419-882-7187
sylvaniapediatricdentalcare.com

What is different about a pediatric dentist?
Being a pediatric dentist is SO FUN! We get to be silly and turn what can be a stressful situation into a fun and enjoyable experience at the dentist! We have video games, books and puzzles to keep everyone busy!

What sets your practice apart from others?
Our office’s number one concern is the experience we give our patients. We strive to create a dental home where children enjoy coming to the dentist.

What is one thing you want parents to know about their child’s oral health?
Children’s diets are so important. Studies show over 90% of kids’ cavities are related to the frequency their teeth are exposed to sugar and acid. Sodas and juices, even the all-natural or 100% juices, dramatically increase a child’s cavity risk.

Dr. Erin Knierim

3036 W. Sylvania Ave.
419-474-0733 | drknierim.com

What made you want to be a pediatric dentist?
Providing children with positive experiences early on helps them to develop a good relationship with dental health. I didn’t start out as a pediatric dentist, however I found the most joy in the days where my schedule had primarily children, so I went back to school so I could learn how to best care for them. Kids feel so much pride and accomplishment when they complete a dental visit with flying colors and facilitating that is such a rewarding feeling.

What is different about a pediatric dentist?
A pediatric dentist has a minimum of two additional years of specialized training where we learn to treat the unique needs of your growing child. We love hanging out with kids all day (and their parents, too) as a focus of our practice.

What sets your practice apart from others in town?
Toledo is a great town with many highly qualified providers to treat your child. My practice is small, which allows us to get to know our families well, and they get to know us. Patients can expect to see the same smiling faces at each visits, which can help them feel comfortable in the dental environment.

Frankel Dentistry

5012 Talmadge Road #100 | 419-474-9611
jonfrankeldentistry.com

Why should parents chose Frankel Dentistry?
We want each visit to be the best dental experience from infancy to old age. Frankel Dentistry has served the Toledo community since 1946. Our patients are our dental family. Patients have celebrated 60 to 70 year anniversaries with us. We have cared for families of 3 to 5 generations!

What sets your practice apart from others in town?
Dr. Frankel gives his person cell phone number to patients. This unique access to the doctor along with two convenient locations and evening and Saturday hours sets Frankel Dentistry apart.

What is one thing you want parents to know about their child’s oral health?
Start healthy habits early to set them up for life. The initial visit should be scheduled right after the first tooth pops through the gums. Infants even receive a Frankel Dentistry bib on their first visit! Kids love Frankel Dentistry and Frankel Dentistry loves kids.

Dr. Andre Haerian
HLS Orthodontics

Sylvania: 6407 Monroe St. | 419-882-1017
Lambertville: 7928 Secor Rd. | 734-854-6221
Maumee: 4359 Keystone Dr., Suite 200 | 419-887-1247
perfectbraces.com

What made you want to be an orthodontist?
There are multiple reasons but a few are the fact that I was and still am interested in the mechanics (forces, vectors, moments) used in the bio-mechanical systems in Orthodontics. I also love to see the transformation that comes with successful treatment.

What is different about an orthodontist compared to a dentist?
All orthodontists and dentists graduate from a dental school, but from there, orthodontists take a different path. They take on additional work and further their education to specialize in straightening teeth. After dental school, there is an additional selective process to determine those that will be able to continue their education toward a specialty in orthodontics. Once accepted, orthodontists undergo an additional two to three years of full-time training concentrating on orthodontia including bite problems, dentofacial orthopeodics, occlusion and bio mechanics to become experts in straightening teeth.

What is one thing you want parents to know about their child’s oral health?
Healthy habits and proper care can help children avoid many problems.

Kay & Paulus Orthodontics

5655 Monclova Rd., Maumee
419-893-3376 | kayandpaulus.com

What is different about an orthodontist compared to a dentist?
An orthodontist is a dental specialist that receives two to three years of additional training beyond dental school. This training focuses on facial growth, tooth movement, and aesthetics.

What sets your practice apart from others in town?
That’s an easy one, our incredible team. At Kay & Paulus Orthodontics, we take great pride in our work and love what we do. We hope our passion of creating an exceptional smile is contagious and strive to exceed our patient’s expectations at each visit. Together we create beautiful smiles that promote happiness, confidence, and self esteem.

What is one thing you want parents to know about their child’s oral health?
Establishing good habits early is the best way to prevent future problems. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends every child establish a dental home by age one. This will help prevent dental problems as children grow and develop. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends children get their first check-up with an orthodontist by the age of seven. Around that age, facial growth and eruption patterns are evaluated. Getting teeth to function well is a very important part of your child’s overall oral health.

We Love Mail: The Joy of Snail Mail

By

April Huard

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February 13, 2019

Is there anything better than finding a fun piece of mail in the mailbox? Children who are growing up in the twenty-first century may rarely receive letters through the US Postal Service. Fortunately, there are several options for kids to experience the thrill of real, old fashioned mail.

Flying Trunk

flyingtrunkstories.com

What’s inside

Joanna Hastings, an Ann Arbor author and educator, puts her impressive storytelling skills to use in these interactive subscription boxes. Once you choose an experience for your child, perhaps a story about a magical genie or a lonely rabbit, a package will arrive weekly for four to six weeks from your child’s fictional correspondent. Boxes contain a chapter-length letter, addressed directly to your child, and several artifacts, which make the story come fully alive. Children can even write back to the hero of their story, making Flying Trunk a remarkably personal experience.

What we loved

We loved the imaginative element of these letters. The heroes of the story are completely believable and unique; we were immediately drawn into the stories and were convinced that we were part of the plots. The artifacts sent in each box add a layer of mystery and delight to each letter.

Cost $124-$180, depending on which experience is chosen
5 out of 5 stamps

Polar Pen Pal

etsy.com (search PolarPenPal)

What’s inside

Monthly envelopes full of fun surprises come directly from the Arctic location of Iqaluit, Nunavut. Each postcard explains a different aspect of Inuit culture (igloos or inuksuks, for example). In addition to the postcard, each letter also contains stickers, a fun souvenir from the North, and access to a website that extends the learning. Children are encouraged to write back to Mark and Meeka with questions about life in the Arctic.

What we loved

Each letter contains a boarding pass with access to a password-protected website. The website has lots of extra information about that week’s topic, including printables, videos, crafts, a book list and much more. We enjoyed exploring the topics more fully and allowing our curiosity to guide us.

Cost $29.55 for a 6 month subscription
4.8 out of 5 stamps

Snail Mail for Kids

snailmailforkids.com

What’s inside

The first box from Sunny the Mail Snail contains your child’s first letter along with a large plush snail and a small poster featuring the world map. Each letter from Sunny describes his adventures delivering mail around the world to various animals. As kids read the letters, they learn animal facts, geography and new vocabulary. The colorful envelopes also hold fun extras like stickers and trading cards, which contain clues to a secret message.

What we loved

As animal lovers, we enjoyed learning more about a different animal each week. As we pored over the letters, the map, and the extras, we were effortlessly collecting facts and information about the world.

Cost $14-$20 dollars/month, depending on package chosen
4.5 out of 5 stamps

Postcrossing

postcrossing.com

What’s inside

Postcrossing is a postcard exchange program that adults and kids alike will enjoy. Once registered, members can request an address and send a postcard to another member somewhere in the world. Our first postcard went to Germany, but yours may go to any of the 248 countries represented on the website.

What we loved

This is a completely organic and natural way of helping kids learn about the world and its people. It’s not scripted or formulaic, so you never know where your next postcard will come from, and that’s part of the fun! You can also choose your level of involvement. You may want to send and receive one postcard a month, or you may have several postcards traveling around the world at once.

Cost: Free!
4 out of 5 stamps

A few more options for getting mail in your box! If you’re not ready to commit to several weeks or months of mail correspondence, try one of these one-time options and receive a special piece of mail. Be sure to include a return address on both your envelope and your letter.

Write to the White House
The White House | 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW
Washington, DC 20500

Kids can write and send a letter to the President of the
United States. Someone from the President’s staff is
guaranteed to read it and respond.

Write to an astronaut
NASA/Johnson Space Center | CB/Astronaut Office
Houston, TX 77058

Space-loving kids can send letters to NASA and request
an autographed photo of an astronaut in return.

Write to a Disney character or princess
Walt Disney World Communications | P.O Box 10040
Lake Buena Vista, Florida 32830-0040

When kids write to a favorite Disney character, they will
receive an autographed postcard. The response may come
from one of several princesses or other Disney favorites.

2019 Education Guide

By

Kimberly Feldkamp

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February 13, 2019

Special Advertising Section

The Toledo area has a wide variety of education options for students, from kindergarten through high school, to help your child learn, grow and thrive. But how do you know which one might be the best fit for your student? Which one offers everything you’re looking for in your child’s education? We can help! Our Education Guide looks at different schools in the area, and what sets them apart, to help you find the best place for your little learner.

Maumee Valley Country Day School

1715 S. Reynolds Rd., Toledo
419-381-1313 | mvcds.org

Maumee Valley Country Day School is the only Preschool – 12th grade accredited, co-educational, independent school in Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan. Maumee Valley’s rich tradition of excellence in education, as measured by the strongest test scores in the region, remains at the core of its program. Students learn in an environment where each is challenged to think creatively and work collaboratively to find answers to relevant, real-world problems. Along with academics, arts, and athletics, Maumee Valley provides students with the opportunity to develop their personal narratives, which help give them a leg up when applying to colleges. One hundred percent of graduates are admitted into a four year college, and most get into their first choice school.

Horizon Science Academy

630 S. Reynolds Rd., Toledo
419-535-0524 | horizonspringfield.org

Horizon Science Academy is a Toledo Charter School that prepares students for post-secondary education by focusing greatly on math, science, and technology. The STEM-focused curriculum leads students to become inquirers, problem solvers, and leaders that are prepared for today’s world. With smaller classroom settings, students receive more one-on-one attention and families experience strong parent-school relationships. Horizon Science Academy is tuition free and provides transportation for students.

Ottawa Hills

3600 Indian Rd., Ottawa Hills, OH
419-536-6371 | ohschools.k12.oh.us

Ottawa Hills Local Schools is the only school district in Ohio to have earned all A’s four consecutive years on the state’s Local Report Card. This achievement continues our tradition of excellence, which we embrace at all grade levels and both inside and outside the classroom. We measure success daily through the combined efforts of teachers, administrators, and support staff in helping students achieve at levels equal to or exceeding measured ability. In partnership with our community, Ottawa Hills Local Schools challenges and inspires each student to realize his or her unique potential; to embrace learning as a lifelong process; and to become an active, responsible citizen.

iLead School

1615 Timberwolf Dr., Holland
419-491-7423 | ileadspringmeadows.org

iLEAD Spring Meadows offers a project-based K-8 curriculum and student-led assessment with global and culturally diverse influences. Through an inquiry-based approach to education, the students at the school learn 21st century skills such as collaboration, communication, independence and social responsibility. iLead Spring Meadows creates open, fun, multi-age K-8 learning environments that promote deeper understanding and celebrate critical thinking. The primary goal is to help learners lead a successful and fulfilled life while contributing to the world around them.

Toledo Junior Academy

4909 W Sylvania Ave., Toledo
419-841-0082 | toledojunioracademy.org

Toledo Junior Academy is a Christ-centered, Seventh-day Adventist private school serving students from kindergarten through eighth grade. The school offers small class sizes, multi-grade classrooms, art and STEM classes. Providing a safe, nurturing, and creative environment, Toledo Junior Academy challenges students to reach their highest potential.

Educare Academy

806 Starr Ave., Toledo
419-704-2009 | [email protected]

Educare Academy Child Development Centers operates 11 locations throughout Northwest Ohio. Each location has been awarded the highest “5-star Rating” available by the Ohio Department of Education for going above and beyond the state requirements to children currently served. Educare Academy offers free preschool and kindergarten readiness programs, with low child-to-staff ratios to maximize each child’s growth and learning experience. Serving ages six weeks through 12 years, Educare Academy Child Development Centers are dedicated to ensuring the health, safety, education and development of each individual child and their family. Educare Academy is currently enrolling – call today to reserve your spot!

YWCA Child Care Resource and Referral

1018 Jefferson Ave., Toledo
419-255-5519 | ywcanwo.org

The YWCA Child Care Resource and Referral provides professional development training and coaching to child care providers as well as child care referral services to parents and families. The YWCA CCR&R has been tasked with assisting providers in earning their Step Up to Quality star ratings. Step Up to Quality is Ohio’s quality rating initiative, ensuring that children receive the highest quality early childhood experiences available. Providers who are star rated go above and beyond child care licensing requirements by providing intentional lesson plans, child screenings and assessments, higher staff qualifications and supports, and family engagement and education opportunities. We provide free assistance to providers in the form of guiding them through the application process and supporting them as they implement higher quality practices in the classroom.

Meadow Montessori

1670 S. Raisinville Rd., Monroe, MI.
734-241-9496 | meadowmontessori.org

Following the Montessori approach, Meadow Montessori provides students with an environment to explore interests and develop physically, socially, emotionally, and cognitively. Meadow Montessori is accredited at every level and serves students from infant through high school. Unique to Meadow Montessori is the 110-acre farm that is utilized by the students, organic gardens and hoop house maintained by students, and the opportunity for dual enrollment in Monroe County Community College classes. Meadow Montessori is committed to creating compassionate, community-oriented, globally responsible students who are prepared not only for higher education, but the greater world beyond graduation.

West Side Montessori School

7115 W. Bancroft St., Toledo
419-866-1931 | montessoritoledo.org

For a more individualized approach, West Side Montessori is an excellent option. This school works to help each child discover their full potential, and creates lessons that are specific to each child’s learning style and interests. At West Side Montessori, children are able to work at their own pace, allowing students to fully understand the subject matter. The Montessori classroom is a highly organized learning environment that gives children countless opportunities to move, make choices, and take charge of their own learning. The enriched curriculum includes French and Spanish, introduced at age 3, leading to a world language immersion program in the upper grades. West Side Montessori is a family-oriented educational community engaging and inspiring children to discover their potential within an environment promoting mutual respect, social responsibility, natural curiosity, and a love of learning.

Local Thyme: Hidden Gem No More!

The Short Course

A local hidden gem

Friendly service and delicious eats

Small town, big fun

Medela Launches New Products

Signs, Symptoms and Statistics of Sibling Sexual Abuse

What you need to know

What to do

Trust your child

Communicate and prevent

Be informed

Seek help

Pediatric Dentist Profiles

Sylvania Pediatric Dental Care

Dr. Erin Knierim

Frankel Dentistry

Dr. Andre Haerian HLS Orthodontics

Kay & Paulus Orthodontics

We Love Mail: The Joy of Snail Mail

Flying Trunk

What’s inside

What we loved

Polar Pen Pal

What’s inside

What we loved

Snail Mail for Kids

What’s inside

What we loved

Postcrossing

What’s inside

What we loved

2019 Education Guide

Maumee Valley Country Day School

Horizon Science Academy

Ottawa Hills

iLead School

Toledo Junior Academy

Educare Academy

YWCA Child Care Resource and Referral

Meadow Montessori

West Side Montessori School

Dr. Andre Haerian
HLS Orthodontics