Still the Same vs. What’s Changed

By

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September 1, 2017

It all started in the fall of 1992, when two mothers with young children recognized a need in the community – to share information about all things parenting. At the time, founder Collette Jacobs and business partner Becky Harris would exchange information and give each each support over the back fence. They realized other moms needed to know they weren’t alone as they held screaming newborns, battled the terrible twos and learned to live with dramatic teens. Toledo Area Parent was born, and here we are 25 years later, still providing information to parents on everything from tips on finding quality childcare to navigating the world of technology to fun, free activities in the community.

In that time, Ann Arbor Family, The City Paper, Findlay Area Family, M Living and Current have all published, too.

“I never envisioned all this when we started,” Collette said. “But a lot of the topics we covered back then – working moms, healthy snacks for kids, family-friendly activities – it’s all still relevant today.”

And today we continue to strive to provide valuable information, to support parents and to have a positive impact on the community. Cheers to 25 more years!

toledo-area-parent-publishers — *(from the Publisher’s Letter in the Sept/Oct 1992 issue)*

The Goals of Toledo Area Parent

In our very first issue, we laid out the goals of this publication.
25 years later, they still ring true.

“First, we will be an extensive resource for families and children by spotlighting activities and all sorts of useful information in our community calendar.

Second, we will provide information and help to the growing number of parents who face difficult choices about day care, child health, safety and education. Most importantly, we are committed to bettering our children and our community. Parenting requires a balanced approach: discipline with caring, support with independence, learning with fun. We look forward to providing you with the resources to make the job of being a parent a little easier.”

The Mother’s Center, where it all began.

A nonprofit organization for mothers and their families. It’s a place where moms come together for education, support, friendship, advice and positive reinforcement in their roles as parents and as women. This is the place where our founders met two and a half decades ago. Together, Collette Jacobs and Becky Harris, decided local moms were hungry for information on everything from keeping kids healthy to making sure they were physically active and engaged in the world around them. Thus, Toledo Area Parent was born. Today the Mother’s Center of Toledo is still around, providing moms of newborns, toddlers, and school-aged children a welcoming, non-judgmental support network.

The Toledo Art Museum

We ran a story about The Toledo Art Museum and offered a handy, interactive map to help parents navigate the museum and show their kids some of the highlights. It was highly controversial when we did — then museum director, Roger Berkowitz, didn’t have such an open-door policy for kids. Fast forward 25 years and today the Art Museum embraces children, offering kids art classes, outdoor games and open spaces to foster creative play and even a Family Center where families are encouraged to roll up their sleeves and get a little messy, all while enjoying the arts.

To Work or Not to Work?

25 years later and women are still facing some of the same tough decisions, especially when it comes to balancing motherhood with a career. After having a baby, many women may find themselves asking: should I work? Should I stay home? What’s best for my baby? For me?

In our first issue 25 years ago, we ran a column about this dilemma,
and it still rings true today.

FIELD TRIP & AFTER SCHOOL GUIDE 2017

By

Emily Remaklus

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September 1, 2017

School may be back in session, but that doesn’t mean the fun needs to end! With these great after school programs and field trips, the fun of summer is still going strong. Plus, you’ll know your children are engaged and entertained after the bell rings, but before dinner is served!

After School Programs

American Academy of Martial Arts
5020 Lewis Ave. Toledo
419-726-8388
https://americanacademymartialarts.com/
American Academy of Martial Arts helps promote martial arts such as judo, ju jitsu, aikido, and self defense to the Toledo youth. With a focus on values such as honor, loyalty, and respect, this organization helps give area kids the necessary skills to become productive members in society.

Hope Learning Academy
4234 Monroe St. Toledo
419-297-6313
https://hopelearningacademy.org/
For some children with mild learning disabilities, a traditional classroom environment can be a struggle. That’s where Hope Learning Academy comes in. This local parochial school focuses on ensuring that these students have a positive experience in school. With sensory and social skills programs, Hope Learning Academy provides the extra support students may need.

Little Wonders Child Care Center
2534 Woodville Rd. Northwood, OH.
419-691-3783
https://www.littlewonderschildcarecenter.com/
Little Wonders Child Care Center provides care for infants up to grade school children. Parents who work late will appreciate the late hours that the center remains open. The center has a focus on helping children build self-confidence and ensures an enriching environment for all children where they can develop socially, emotionally, and cognitively.

2437 Tremainsville Rd. Toledo
419-473-0999
minimotionsdance.com
Offering a variety of dance classes, Mini Motions has something for all ages and levels of experience. Additionally, they offer local daycares the option to set up programs so that children can participate in dance and motor skills at their usual after school location. So if you have a little one who can’t stop moving to the beat, Mini Motions could be
the perfect after school option for you!

YMCA of Greater Toledo
1500 N. Superior St., Toledo
419-729-8135 | ymcatoledo.org
With over 25 centers in Northwest Ohio and located in 16 different schools, it is easy to find after school care nearby. For schools that do not have a YMCA located inside, transportation is provided so that children can easily get from school to a YMCA after care program. For parents that work second shift, two area YMCAs offer late night care.
Care is offered for children as young as 6 weeks old up to 12 years old.

Toledo Volleyball Club
2901 Key St. #2, Maumee
419.794.4656
toledovolleyballclub.com
Spend some time courtside learning new skills and having fun with the Toledo Volleyball Club’s (TVC) popular “in-house” leagues. Youth, Junior High and High School league teams all get to train with TVC coaches, benefit from practices and play in competitive games, including all-day events, without traveling to out-of-town tournaments. Players can also opt for private lessons, small group training, and more. To learn more about the TVC’s expansive offerings, see online.

Indian Creek Zoo
2744 Consear Rd., Lambertville, MI
419-279-0390
https://indiancreekzoo.com
Indian Creek Zoo is a great way to spend a day being educated and engaged. With educational messages near the natural exhibits, students have a wonderful opportunity to learn all about the hundreds of beautiful creatures in an up-close and personal way. School field trips are catered to specific grade levels and teachers get in free! Pricing for students is $5 and $7 for parents and chaperones.

American Academy of Martial Arts
5020 Lewis Ave. Toledo
419-726-8388
https://americanacademymartialarts.com/
American Academy of Martial Arts helps promote martial arts such as judo, ju jitsu, aikido, and self defense to the Toledo youth. With a focus on values such as honor, loyalty, and respect, this organization helps give area kids the necessary skills to become productive members in society.

Hope Learning Academy
4234 Monroe St. Toledo
419-297-6313
https://hopelearningacademy.org/
For some children with mild learning disabilities, a traditional classroom environment can be a struggle. That’s where Hope Learning Academy comes in. This local parochial school focuses on ensuring that these students have a positive experience in school. With sensory and social skills programs, Hope Learning Academy provides the extra support students may need.

Little Wonders Child Care Center
2534 Woodville Rd. Northwood, OH.
419-691-3783
https://www.littlewonderschildcarecenter.com/
Little Wonders Child Care Center provides care for infants up to grade school children. Parents who work late will appreciate the late hours that the center remains open. The center has a focus on helping children build self-confidence and ensures an enriching environment for all children where they can develop socially, emotionally, and cognitively.

Imagination Station
1 Discovery Way
419-244-2674
imaginationstationtoledo.org
All their programs are aligned with state standards for Ohio and Michigan, so the Imagination Station makes a perfect location for a field trip. Just $6 per participants from Lucas County ($6.50 if outside), there is a host of activities for students that are so fun, they might not realize they’re learning. Think Tank Workshops are available for an additional fee that allow stundents to dissect a cow’s eye, get hands on with the life cycle and more.

Rosenbloom’s Farm
2738 Shetland Rd. Toledo
419-841-3320
https://rosenbloomsfarm.weebly.com/
The animal lover in your family will love a visit to Rosenbloom’s Farm. Rosenbloom’s offers a variety of activities including hosting birthday parties, giving tours, offering crafts, providing hayrides, and offering a beautiful picnic area. The farm makes sure to accommodate everyone interested in the farm experience including school groups, families, and children and adults with disabilities.

Toledo Zoo
2 Hippo Way, Toledo
419-385-5721
https://www.toledozoo.org/
The Toledo Zoo is an excellent place for an educational and enjoyable time. This “must do zoo” is fun for any age and gives visitors an up-close look at animals from around the world. As if that’s not fun enough, an aerial adventure course was recently added which allows visitors to see the zoo from a new angle. Additionally, the beautiful aquarium is included with all zoo admission. For many school districts, The Toledo Zoo is a perfect field trip choice.

Splash Universe
100 Whitetail Dr. Dundee, MI
734-606-0149
splashuniverse.com
Just because summer is done doesn’t mean all waterparks have closed. Splash Universe in Dundee is an indoor water park that offers a ton of fun! In addition to water slides, a lazy river, and the 500 gallon splash bucket, the water park has just opened their new Breakout Room, an escape room that requires participants to solve a series of puzzles in one hour to break out. Unlike other escape rooms, the Breakout Room is not just for adults. Kids ages 7 and older can test their critical thinking and communication skills as they work to breakout. Field trips booked by November receive one free splash room overnight stay to use as a giveaway at a school function.

Kids meet goals with The Right Direction

By

Emily Remaklus

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September 1, 2017

If you have been to any of the festivals happening in Northwest Ohio in the last few months there is a chance you may have seen The Right Direction. From scooters to wakeboards, The Right Direction is the ultimate organization in Northwest Ohio for bringing action sports to the community.

Support for non-traditional sports

The Right Direction Youth Development Program is a non-profit youth development program that focuses on engaging and supporting kids in action sports such as motocross, BMX, and skateboarding. The organization not only teaches young athletes the skills necessary to succeed in their particular sport, but it also focuses on developing necessary life skills to ensure they have a bright future.

The organization was founded in 2010 by professionally sponsored rider Don DiBartolomeo who had been involved in action sports since he was a kid. Having had the experience of working as a professional rider at a young age, DiBartolomeo understands the importance sports can play in the development of values and skills for kids. In Northwest Ohio there is a great amount of endorsement and recognition for the more traditional sports, such as football and baseball. However, action sports do not generally receive the same support. DiBartolomeo founded The Right Direction as a way to help support local kids in their interest for non-traditional sports.

DiBartolomeo has been very involved in the community throughout his professional career, so The Right Direction is also focused greatly on giving back to the community, through mentoring kids. DiBartolomeo instills the importance of giving back and provides multiple ways which young athletes can make a positive impact, stating, “Everything we do has some community give back.”

Community involvement

One initiative created by The Right Direction is their Impact Program. With a focus on community and the development of life skills, The Right Direction helps young athletes plan and enact fundraisers for charities of their choice. In the past, athletes have brought action sports demonstrations to their schools where the student population can pay $1 to get out of class to watch the demo. The money raised then goes towards a charity of the athlete’s choice. However, it is also the responsibility of the athlete to take over the marketing and planning for the fundraiser. After the event, the athlete creates a story, through video or written, that can be shared by the school and The Right Direction.

Along with fundraisers, The Right Direction hosts a number of contests throughout the year at local parks. There are many kids who spend countless hours in skate parks working to improve, but often do not have the chance to showcase their skills. By participating in the contests, kids create their own 1-2 minute run set to music and are then judged and awarded prizes. It’s a way to recognize the athletes for their hard work. The contests are free, but The Right Direction asks for a donation of a canned good which goes to a local food bank.

Additionally, the organization offers demos across Northwest Ohio throughout the year. The demonstrations are given by instructors and young athletes who participate in the Action Sports Demo Team. Along with showcasing action sports, the demonstrations incorporate positive messages about safety, anti-bullying, the dangers of drugs and tobacco, and the importance of healthy living.

By participating in The Right Direction, young athletes not only see how they can positively impact their community, but they are also developing team work, communication, time management, and leadership skills, all which are necessary to succeed as a professional athlete or in any career field they may choose.

Don DiBartolomeo shows tricks are for kids with The Right Direction Youth Development Program

Q&A with Don DiBartolomeo

What’s your favorite activity to do with your family/kids? Sharing a meal with them, everyone’s there at the same time and place.
What’s your go-to activity when you finally have a few minutes to yourself? Riding my bike.
Name one thing you swore you’d never do as a parent, but totally did……. Tell them, “Oooohhh I would take you to McDonald’s but they’re closed on (whatever day it happened to be)….because they’re cleaning.
Describe your life in five words Always love what you’re doing.

Want to learn more or see The Right Direction’s work in action?

What? September demonstrations
Where? Waterville’s Roche De Boeuf Festival and BGSU’s STEM in the Park
When? Sat., September 23rd 2017 at 10:30am and 1:45pm
Why? Come see The Right Direction Action Sports Demo Team as they share their talents, and a positive message about living a healthy lifestyle.

For more information about The Right Direction and how to get
involved, please visit therightdirection.org

PRIZM Youth Art Exhibit Event

By

Emily Modrowski

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September 1, 2017

prizm-youth-art-winners — *Tapping into their creative side, these youth art winners, aged 3 through junior high, crafted art in a range of mediums.*

Children have a refreshing view of the world. Things often look a lot different from their eyes, making their creativity even more interesting and valuable. PRIZM, a non-profit organization created to inspire artistic expression in literary and visual arts, is a firm believer in children’s creative expression.

This summer, PRIZM, partnered with Way Library for the 3rd annual Northwest Ohio Youth Art Summer Invitational. The “Color My World” youth art exhibit featured works of art from children ages three through junior high. Children and teens crafted two and three dimensional works in all artistic medias.

Local artists, adults, friends and family members mentored young students and encouraged them to submit work into PRIZM’s visual arts event. Categories for art submissions were “Breaking Ground” creative theme, a library theme, a recycle theme, a Way Library summer read theme, a general category and an age category.

Imagination was clearly on display by the clever use of recycled materials in many of the entries. This was demonstrated by 1st place recycle category winner April Switzenberg’s diorama that was made with stone and cardboard. In the Library theme cateogy, 2nd place winner Ritodeep Roy used a recycled jug as the base of his piece. On top of recyclables, there were many entries made with acrylics, paper collages and more.

Each participant received certificates as well as a chance to win other prizes, and the winners of the age and theme categories combined won hundreds of dollars worth of art supplies to help continue their creativity.

Congratulations to all of the winners!

goodnight-moon — *This work by R. Jensen, pays homage to popular children’s book Goodnight Moon.*

Cops & Kids Event is Back

By

Kimberly Feldkamp

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September 1, 2017

Get ready to hit the bowling lanes for a good cause. The Toledo Bowling Senate Junior League’s Build A-Trust Bowl- A-Thon will be back at the end of the month. At Toledo Sports Center on Saturday, September 30 at 11am kids, tweens and teens are invited to bowl with local police officers, firefighters and members of the military. George Hayes, event coordinator, said the purpose behind this event is to break down barriers and build the trust level with law enforcement in Toledo and surrounding areas. The fourth event of this kind, Hayes sees the numbers continue to grow. Those under 17 bowl free. All others pay $5 for three games, shoe rental included.

Toledo Sports Center
1516 Starr Avenue
Toledo | 419-693-0687

New guidelines for fruit juice

By

Kimberly Feldkamp

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September 1, 2017

Fruit juice might seem like an excellent means of quenching your child’s thirst, but the American Academy of Pediatrics has new guidelines for fruit juices and children: No juice before age 1. For toddlers ages 1-3, up to half a cup per day (4 oz). For children ages 4-6, up to three-quarters cup per day (6 oz). For children and teens ages 7-18, up to one cup per day (8 oz). Do not put juice in a sippy cup or bottle that the child carries around. Offer your child whole fruit, which has both the vitamins and fiber that children need.