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What’s On Our Bookshelf this September

The cover of a book.

Ava the Monster Slayer: Sleepover Superheroes

By Lisa Maggiore

The cover of a book.

At their school’s sleepover event, Ava and her friends must rescue their beloved stuffies after they’ve been taken by a group of older girls. But that means they must enter the school hallways, rumored to be haunted with ghosts and mythical creatures! This imaginative graphic-novel style picture book keeps youngsters on the edge of their seats while showing them how to face their fears. Ages 3-6.

The Legend of the Serpent Witch

By F.P. LaRue

The cover of a book.

Just in time for Halloween comes a new Scary Shivers Mystery adventure where young readers can solve mysteries alongside Ollie, Mellie and Scotty. In the third edition, they stumble upon clothing in the woods that belongs to a group of boys who went missing. Through their quest to find the missing kids, they encounter an evil witch who casts scary spells and wicked curses on the whole town! Ages 9-12

Willard DoGooder and the Trail of Friends

By Jen Kirkley

The cover of a book.

Willard DoGooder has trouble making friends because he feels different. One day, he sets off on a magical trail that leads him to meet new friends who are also different from their peers. Each friend that Willard DoGooder meets teaches him exactly how to approach differences, learn from one another, and appreciate each other’s gifts. A much-needed reminder that everyone has something “different” about them, but we all can be included and bring our talents to share! Ages 3-8


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I’m Sorry You Got Mad

By Kyle Lukoff

The cover of a book.

Kids aren’t the best at making apologies, and Jack is no different. When asked to apologize to his classmate, Zoe, for knocking over her castle, he has trouble finding the right words. But with some help from his teacher, Jack recognizes that an apology is more than words – it is about feelings. A great book to share with kids to discuss what sincere and meaningful apology looks like. Ages 3-6.

Show Up and Vote

By Ani DiFranco

The cover of a book.

Grammy-winning artist Ani DiFranco has penned a relevant and timely story about the importance of voting. This story follows a wide-eyed young girl who accompanies her mother to their local polling station on Election Day. The young girl takes in all the emotions and learns, in an age-appropriate way, of why voting matters. A tool for parents to get kids excited about being voters themselves someday.

This collection of books was gathered by freelance writer Lori Orlinsky, an award-winning, bestselling children’s book author and industry expert who lives and breathes children’s books.

New Kids on the Block: September/October 2024

Full day kindergarten now offered at Ohio Virtual Academy

Ohio Virtual Academy will be offering full-day kindergarten in the 2024-2025 school year. Through Ohio Virtual Academy, students will have the opportunity to have a tuition-free full-day education, led by Ohio-certified teachers powered by Stride K12. 

1690 Woodlands Dr STE 100, Maumee. 866-339-9071. ohva.k12.com


Jermain Park Gets Updated Amenities 

A photo of a Tennis court at Jermain park.

Jermain Park, located at the corner of Upton Ave. and Kenwood Ave., was recently renovated. The park now includes six tennis courts and four new pickleball courts. Tennis court #4 is dedicated in memory of Zacharias Barden “for his years of service to the tennis community.” Updated public restrooms and a replaced parking lot are other improvements that were included in the Jermain Park renovations. Jermain Park is adjacent to Ottawa Park. For more information on Jermain Park, visit ottawapark.org. 

Ottawa Park Opens Inclusive Playground

A new inclusive playground recently opened at Ottawa Park near the Liz Pearson open-air shelter house. This $1 million investment will provide a resource for local families to play. This playground qualifies as a national demonstration site for inclusive play, thanks to the involvement of The Ability Center of aGreater Toledo and the Toledo/Lucas County Disability Commission. The design of the new playground celebrates iconic aspects of Toledo’s heritage including Jeep Wrangler and the High Level Bridge architecture. The American Recovery Plan funded this project. For more information on Ottawa Park, visit ottawapark.org.


Kidstrong opens Toledo Location

A photo of a child.

Kidstrong is a local program which offers children the tools they need to succeed mentally and physically. They have locations all over the country and they recently opened in Toledo. In Kidstrong’s science based training program, kids learn physical skills such as how to walk a balance beam and how to do a pull-up, in addition to working on character development. Kidstrong also offers kids camps and birthday parties. 

5203 Monroe St, Toledo. 567-250-6000. kidstrong.com.


Education Opportunities in the Toledo Area

A teacher with a group of kids.

From preschool to high school, finding the right educational path for your family can be tough. Fortunately Toledo has a lot of options, and we have rounded up some local schools to help you make the best decision for your kids. 

Educare Academy

Multiple locations

419-704-2009

[email protected]

With over 50 years of experience, Educare Academy Child Development Centers provide a safe and nurturing education for your children. Programs are a fit for a variety of ages, from infants to school agers. The infant room provides peace of mind for parents, with a strong focus on communication with parents and a loving environment. The toddler room uses play as a primary way of learning with a variety of toys and crafts, while also prioritizing the development of social emotional skills like sharing, discovery and independence. For both the infant and toddler programs, parents can sign up for Cuties Care which is only $10 a week and covers the cost of diapers and wipes for the week, making it one less thing parents need to worry about. 

The PreK program focuses on kindergarten readiness skills by increasing vocabulary, beginning writing, reading basic words, identifying patterns and following multiple step instructions. The program is no cost for families that meet certain income guidelines. Students from low-income homes can also be enrolled in the Early Head Start and Head Start programs which are made available through a partnership with Lucas County Family Council and Great Lakes Community Action Partnership. 

For school age students, Educare Academies provide before and after school care with homework assistance, games, crafts and enrichment activities. With ten locations in the area, all of which have received 5-star ratings in Ohio’s rating and improvement system, parents have a convenient option for a top tier education for their children.


RELATED:Head of the Class: Getting to Know Toledo’s Educational Leaders


Hope Learning Academy

4234 Monroe St., Toledo

419-297-6313

[email protected]

Hope Learning Academy of Toledo is a K-8 school that is committed to individualized learning to ensure that each student reaches their full potential. Class sizes are very small at Hope Learning Academy, with 10 students, or less, per class, allowing teachers to provide individualized attention to each student to accommodate differing learning styles. Additionally the school offers reading and math interventions for those students who might need a little extra support in those areas. Specialized programs also address needs such as dyslexia support, social skills development and sensory integration. 

Hope Learning Academy holds high expectations for their students and instills a growth mindset that helps students overcome challenges and celebrate successes. For a school that will provide the individualized attention your child needs, consider Hope Learning Academy of Toledo.

Children’s Discovery Center

6450 Weatherfield Ct. Suite 3, Maumee

419-867-8570

[email protected]

A teacher with a group of kids.Discover the best in early childhood education at Children’s Discovery Center! With five convenient locations throughout the Toledo area, Children’s Discovery Center (CDC) offers an exceptional choice for families seeking quality early childhood education, with a mission rooted in respect for each student, promoting learning through exploration and supporting the whole family in a creative and nurturing Christian environment.

Offering programs for every age, with infants, safety is a top priority, while also allowing infants to explore, play and grow. Dedicated caregivers foster the development of motor and sensory skills through consistent and loving interactions. Toddlers discover themselves and gain confidence in the nurturing learning environments. Emphasizing consistency, encouraging exploration and development in language, social and emotional skills and independence, the programs embrace the Reggio Emilia philosophy, adapting preschool/pre-k learning to the interests of each child while adhering to Ohio educational standards. 

With a focus on enhancing creative problem-solving, conflict resolution and collaboration skills, for children who have already completed kindergarten, engaging summer camps and after-school programs are also available. The after-school program caters to children in kindergarten through 4th grade, providing transportation options and a nurturing, educational environment.

Why choose Children’s Discovery Center? Children’s Discovery Center is proud to provide world-renowned learning environments led by an exceptional educational team. Experience the difference in a program that supports your child’s development and your family’s needs. Join in fostering a love for learning and exploration in a caring and consistent setting.

Toledo Alliance for the Performing Arts

1838 Parkwood Ave. UNIT 310, Toledo

419-246-8000

Looking for some additional educational opportunities for your children? The Toledo Alliance for the Performing Arts (TAPA) is a performing arts collective comprised of the Toledo Symphony, Toledo Ballet, Toledo Symphony School of Music, Toledo Symphony Youth Orchestras and the Toledo Jazz Orchestra. TAPA offers education opportunities in dance and music for all ages. The Toledo Ballet offers various curriculum in ballet and other dance styles starting with children who are having their first encounters with music and movement to students considered advanced dancers. The classes focus on helping students develop confidence, discipline and a love for dancing. Students also have the opportunity to audition for seasonal ballet productions throughout the year which are performed with live music by the Toledo Symphony Orchestra!

The Toledo Symphony School of Music believes in helping students develop musicianship, determination, adaptation and teamwork all in an inclusive environment. Using the Suzuki approach to education, children as young as 3 years old can begin selecting instruments for their music education. And there are even music education options for children younger than 3 years old with the Musically Me classes. These classes are offered so that the youngest of children can enjoy music and movement in a group setting. As your child grows, they can participate in private lessons and/or group classes with expert educators focusing on the instrument of their choice. And as they advance as musicians, they may even be able to join The Toledo Symphony Youth Orchestras!

Davis University

433 N. Summit St., Toledo

419-473-2700 

Davis University in Toledo, Ohio, is dedicated to providing exceptional career training through hands-on instruction led by expert educators. With a 10:1 student-teacher ratio, the university offers personalized support to help students succeed in their chosen careers. The modern campus, knowledgeable faculty, and vibrant student community create an ideal environment for learning. Accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and registered with the Ohio State Board of Career Colleges and Schools, Davis University upholds high standards of innovation and excellence.  

Contact an admissions representative for program details and class schedules to explore if Davis University is the right fit.

Davis University Homepage: davisuniversity.edu

Davis University Program Page: davisuniversity.edu/programs

Davis University Application Form: davisuniversity.edu/apply-on-line

Forté Music School

3208 W Sylvania Ave, Toledo,

419-471-2100

Forté Music School offers flexible scheduling to accommodate busy lives. Their programs cater to both children and adults, with lessons tailored to each student’s unique schedule and goals. This flexibility ensures that every student can enjoy the profound benefits of music without compromising other extracurricular commitments. All in one location, Forté Music School offers all instruments and all ages. With over 50 music teachers and a large facility, there are plenty of opportunities for students to learn seven days a week. All students pay on a month-to-month basis, meaning, it is not a long term commitment if you want to try it out. Students are given many performance opportunities while they are at Forté Music School, including two free Student Showcases where they can show friends and family what they have been learning.  

Toledo Junior Academy

419-841-0082

4909 West Sylvania Avenue, Toledo

A teacher working with a child.xWith a hands-on, ‘whole child’ approach, Toledo Junior Academy offers programs for students 5–14 years old. At this fully accredited academy, students get personalized attention in small class sizes that average between 10 to 20 students per classroom. It is a Christian environment where students provided daily Bible classes and weekly Friday worships. Toledo Junior Academy has high academic expectations for students. Students are also given many opportunities in art and STEM including music classes, art classes, science fairs, music festivals and more. They value frequent parental communication and involvement.  Additional programs include the outdoor learning program and kindergarten forest program. At Toledo Junior Academy, they put an emphasis on the physical, mental, spiritual and emotional aspect of the whole child. 


Back to School Photo Contest 2024

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Join the First Ever Put-in-Bay Monarch Festival

Monarch festival graphic

For the first year, Lake Erie Islands Nature and Wildlife Center (LEINWC) will be hosting Monarch Fest, a family friendly event celebrating Monarch butterflies at Put-in-Bay. The event will be held on Saturday September 14 from 11am to 2pm at Duggan’s Field on Put-in-Bay.

Every year, Monarch butterflies migrate up to 3,000 miles from North American breeding grounds to Mexico. At this event, families are encouraged to grab a net and help catch butterflies to be tagged and set free. This is part of the Monarch tagging research effort that spans the continent from Canada to Mexico, contributing to Monarch conservation efforts.


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At this family-friendly event, there will also be kids activities, games, food and music. Duggan’s Field on Put-in-Bay is located near the South Bass Island Lighthouse, which will be open to the public for tours.

Details and updates can be found at lakeerieislandswildlife.com/monarch-fest. For any inquiries about the festival, reach out via phone at 419-285-3037 or email at [email protected].