We are giving away three copies of “Rayne Climbs Up” by local author Tasha L. Wilburn.
This story, inspired by Wilburn’s daughter Rayne who was diagnosed with Eby’s Palsy, celebrates courage, determination and the power of doing things differently. It supports early readers while gently introducing themes of resilience, empathy, sibling support, and self-confidence.

We will announce the winners on Thursday, May 21.

Go to Northeast Ohio Parent Facebook page to enter. We will be announcing the winners on Thursday, May 21.

Learn more about author Tasha Wilburn and the book on the Northeast Ohio Parent Talk Podcast here.  

Learn more about the author at her website: tashalwilburn.com

Editor’s Note: There is no purchase necessary to enter. We would never ask you for payment or contact you via Facebook messenger.

The post Book Giveaway: ‘Rayne Climbs Up” from Local Author Tasha Wilburn appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

Learn more about Tasha Wilburn or get her book “Rayne Climbs Up” on her website or Amazon 

Watch or listen to the recording below:

You can also listen to the recording!

The post Video Podcast #1: A Conversation with Tasha L Wilburn About Her New Book “Rayne Climbs Up” appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

by Cuts N Curls Staff

For some children, a haircut is routine. For others, it can feel overwhelming long before they walk through the door. Families raising children with sensory sensitivities or developmental differences often know this feeling well. What may seem like a simple trim can trigger anxiety, tears, or even panic.

At Cuts N Curls, these experiences are not unusual. Over nearly 20 years of working with children of all abilities, the team has seen how deeply sensory input can affect a child’s comfort and behavior during everyday grooming tasks. Understanding why this happens is an important step toward making haircuts more manageable for both children and parents.

Why Grooming Can Be Overstimulating

Haircuts involve multiple sensory elements happening at once. There is the sound of clippers or scissors, the vibration against the scalp, the sensation of loose hair touching the neck and face, the smell of products, bright lighting, and close personal space. For children with sensoryprocessing differences, each of these stimuli may be heightened.

Sensory processing challenges are common among children with autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, anxiety disorders, and other developmental conditions. However, not every child who struggles during a haircut has a diagnosis. Some children are simply more sensitive to tactile or auditory input.

More often, it is about regulation. When a child’s nervous system becomes overloaded, their response may be to cry, pull away, freeze, or attempt to escape the situation. Recognizing this as a sensory response rather than a behavioral issue shifts the approach entirely.

The Role of Environment

Environment can significantly influence how a child experiences a haircut. Traditional salon settings are often busy, loud, and visually stimulating. For some children, this level of activity can immediately elevate stress.

For example, Cuts N Curls addressed this need by incorporating a private sensory room within the salon. The purpose of the space is not to isolate, but to reduce external stimulation. A quieter environment allows children to focus on one experience at a time, rather than processing multiple sounds and movements simultaneously.

Preparing Children in Advance

Many professionals recommend preparing children ahead of grooming appointments. Visual schedules, social stories, or even practicing sitting still at home can help reduce unpredictability. Some children benefit from watching a sibling receive a haircut first. Others may need to visit the space briefly before scheduling a full appointment.

Families are encouraged to share what works best for their child. This collaborative approach helps create a plan that feels supportive rather than rushed. Over time, familiarity with the environment and staff can build trust.

Supporting Parents Without Judgment

Parents of children with sensory challenges often carry a quiet stress when entering public spaces. They may worry about how others perceive their child’s behavior. They may brace themselves for a difficult moment. A compassionate response from professionals can ease that burden.

. The common thread is understanding. When a child needs a break, extra time, or a modified approach, flexibility becomes more important than speed.

It is also important to acknowledge that progress can look different for every child. One appointment may go smoothly; the next may not. Sensoryregulation is influenced by sleep, hunger, transitions, and countless other factors. Families benefit most when expectations remain realistic and adaptable.

A Community Approach

As awareness has increased, so has the importance of inclusive community spaces.

Haircuts may never be effortless for every child, but they can become more predictable and less intimidating when approached with patience and informed care. Sensory-aware environments, trained professionals, and open communication all contribute to better experiences.

For families navigating sensory sensitivities, knowing that Cuts N Curls recognizes and respects these challenges can provide reassurance. The goal is not perfection. It is progress, comfort, and dignity for every child who sits in the chair. Visit cutsncurls.net for more info.

The post The Importance of Sensory-Aware Haircare for Children appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

I’m not a first-person writer, but I’m an expert in self-care. My eldest was diagnosed with a developmental disability at age 17  — late enough that for years, we just thought he was lazy or unmotivated. The diagnosis helped us understand household stressors more than I imagined.

Here’s what I learned from the second MFA (Make Fun Again) I earned during that time:

Technology: The best thing I own is a pair of bone-conduction headphones. The no-name version I bought a couple of years ago cost less than $30. They rest on either side of my head, mostly hidden by my hair, and send sound directly to the inner ear instead of going through the eardrum. Because they don’t block the ear canal, you can still hear what’s going on around you. Also, my friend who uses hearing aids tried my bone-conduction headphones and they worked for him without interference! #AccessibilityBenefitsEveryone

In-house hobbies: Hobbies that benefit more than just you are a great way to keep it together. Particularly when they are also household arts: sewing (the VisibleMending subreddit!), fiberwork, playing ukulele. Personally, I enjoy cooking. Sourdough bread takes a max of 15 active minutes at any time and is pretty forgiving even if you can’t manage that. Once you have a starter — ask your Facebook friends — you can make tasty, preservative-free food while also making your house smell like fresh warm bread. Win-Win. Cost: flour (I like King Arthur, and their Sourdough English Muffin recipe is #1 in my heart).

Online: Stop the doomscrolling. Find a game or other app that you can get good at; Candy Crush doesn’t count. I like online poker, which I play with fake dollars. Stream new-to-you stuff instead of relying on the old to keep your queue, and by extension yourself, fresh. I watched all of Grey’s Anatomy during COVID; these days, it’s Private Practice. Oh, and instead of online news or social media, I look at listings for cute convertible cars I won’t buy, or sparkly jewelry that I match to my different friends and send them the photos. It’s like window shopping; I call it “black-mirror shopping.”

Creatively: Journal. Write a haiku about how the laundry and dishes never end. Write jokes about how hard your day was. Sing a song about how it feels to drive away from school with nobody in your car but you. Dare to be silly.

Accountability: At the end of the day, it can be hard to remember something good you did. Not remembering the good things is what leads to and/or compounds burnout. So at least make a point to satisfy yourself, and then, remember you cared enough for yourself to do so. Like the saying goes, you can’t pour from an empty cup. “I read three pages of a book” or “I learned the bridge of ‘The Rainbow Connection’ on my ukulele” is better for you than having not. So, your final 5-second task: write the day’s success(es) on a new Post-it Note on your nightstand.

Keep it up and you’ll have a stack of good memories to smile at amid it all.

Visit cuyahogadd.org

The post Self-Care for Parents of Children with Disabilities appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

The structure and predictability of school days fall away quickly, and many families are left trying to recreate that support at home while balancing work, camps and changing routines.

Needs and experiences vary widely, from mild to more complex disabilities, but many of the challenges around structure, sensory input and routine are shared across the spectrum.

Start with simple, consistent routines

A full school-day schedule is not necessary, but having predictable anchors in the day can make a meaningful difference.

Consistent wake-up times, meals and bedtimes help create stability. Some families use a simple visual schedule or outline the day on a whiteboard.Even knowing that a walk happens every morning or quiet time happens every afternoon can reduce anxiety.

Plan ahead for outings

New environments can be overwhelming, especially in the summer, when spaces are more crowded and louder.

Preview where you are going by looking at photos or videos and talking through what to expect.

Bring familiar items such as headphones, snacks or comfort objects, and think ahead about where you can take a break if needed.

 Going earlier in the day or choosing off-peak hours can make many places more manageable. Weekdays are often easier than weekends.

 Keep in mind that a short visit that goes well is more valuable than staying longer and pushing past a comfort level.

Choose the right environments

Summer does not have to mean high-stimulation activities. Quieter or more predictable environments often work best.

 Libraries offer inclusive programming and calmer spaces to explore. Nature-based activities such as parks and trails can provide lower-stimulation options.

 For many families, options like the Akron Zoo and The Cleveland Museum of Natural History are good options because they’re smaller and easier to navigate.

 There are also many inclusive playgrounds around the region.

Keep skills going through daily life

Summer is an opportunity to maintain skills without making it feel like school.

Everyday routines like cooking, organizing and simple chores reinforce independence. Short, consistent practice of therapy-related activities can help maintain progress.

There is also value in allowing choice. Summer can be a time to try new things and explore interests in a low-pressure way.

Stay connected and supported

It is important not to become isolated. Northeast Ohio offers resources such as adaptive camps and community programs. Many organizations share calendars of sensory-friendly events, and connecting with other families can help.

 LiveSpecial.com, a project of the National Council of Jewish Women/Cleveland, connects families navigating disabilities to local resources, events and support.

 Additional updates and ideas are shared regularly on its Facebook page.

Make space for yourself

Summer can be demanding for caregivers. Building in breaks, sharing responsibilities and setting realistic expectations are essential.

 A successful summer does not have to be full or perfectly planned. Quiet days, repeated favorite activities and small moments of progress all count.

Guest columnist Wendy Spitz is the LiveSpecial.com (a project of NCJW/CLE) coordinator. The LiveSpecial.com magazines and online database serves as a resource for families and individuals navigating special needs in Northeast Ohio.

The post Tips For Navigating Summer With Loved Ones Who Have Disabilities appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

Summer is often thought of as the season of fun and flexibility including sleeping in, relaxed schedules, and a welcome break from the demands of the school year. But for families of children with special learning and social needs, the lack of routine that makes summer exciting can also make it challenging and have a profound effect on the return to school in the fall.

Without the predictable structure of school days, many children struggle. Parents and caregivers may notice increased anxiety, irritability or difficulty managing expectations. What feels like “down time” can quickly become overwhelming for everyone. Children with social and learning differences often thrive on consistency and predictability. During the school year, routines help create a sense of security. Students know what to expect, understand transitions and benefit from clear schedules and support systems throughout the day. When summer arrives and those routines change drastically, many children can feel dysregulated.

The good news is that maintaining structure during the summer does not mean recreating the school day at home. In fact, the most successful summer routines often strike a balance between flexibility and predictability. Children can still enjoy the freedom and fun of summer while benefiting from a loose framework that supports their social-emotional, behavioral and academic well-being.

One of the simplest and most effective ways to maintain stability is through consistent morning and bedtime routines. Regular sleep schedules help children regulate emotions, improve focus and ease the transition back to school in the fall. Even small habits like waking up around the same time or reading before bed can provide comfort and consistency (while also keeping reading skills sharp).

Creating visual schedules for the day can also help reduce anxiety and dysregulation. Children often respond well when they know what is coming next. A simple structure such as breakfast, outdoor time, learning activity, free play and quiet time can provide enough predictability without making the day feel overly rigid.

Summer is also an ideal opportunity to reinforce learning in natural ways. Academic practice does not have to look like worksheets or formal lessons with wrong or right answers. Everyday activities can build important skills while still feeling fun and engaging. Gardening, playing board games, and journaling are just a few examples that encourage learning through real-world experiences.

These types of activities also help combat the “summer slide,” when children lose some of the academic progress they made during the school year. For students with learning differences, even small amounts of consistent practice can make a meaningful difference when returning to school in the fall.

Social connection is another important piece of summer planning. During the school year, students have daily opportunities to practice communication, cooperation and problem-solving with peers. Scheduling regular playdates, camps, and family activities can help children continue developing social-emotional skills in comfortable and supportive settings. 

For parents and caregivers, flexibility and realistic expectations are key. Some days will go smoothly, while others may feel challenging. What matters most is consistency over perfection. Small routines and manageable expectations often have a greater impact than elaborate schedules or highly structured plans.

A simple daily framework can often help children feel more secure and successful:

• Consistent wake-up and bedtime routines
• Opportunities for movement and outdoor play
• Reading or hands-on learning activities
• Social interaction with peers or family
• Quiet time to recharge
• Clear expectations

When children feel safe, supported and connected, they are better able to enjoy summer experiences while continuing to grow socially, emotionally and academically.

Summer should still feel like summer, more relaxed, positive and opportunities for fun. By maintaining gentle structure and routines, families can help children with special learning and social needs navigate the season with greater confidence, comfort and success.

The post How to Maintain Routines During the Summer Months appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

For many families, raising a child with a disability has challenges, not only for the child with the disability, but for their siblings as well. Siblings need to feel they are just as important as their brother or sister with a disability. They need to know the people in their lives care about them and understand what they are going through too.

So, what can you do to help siblings of children with disabilities?

1. Talk about feelings — By talking you send a message that it’s okay for a sibling to have many and varied feelings about their sibling with a disability. Encourage siblings to share their feelings and, most importantly, listen without judgment. Acknowledge their feelings by saying things like “It sounds like you felt really sad about Max getting all the attention. It’s okay to feel sad.” Assure them it’s okay to ask for help with any feelings they have about their family.

2. Spend time with them — If a child with a disability needs extra time and care, sometimes it impacts the activities and quality time of their siblings. Spending quality time with siblings sends the message that they are important to you. It also gives you the chance to find out what is happening in their lives. Try planning one-on-one time with siblings and even let them choose the activities you do together. For example, ‘Hannah, I’m looking forward to spending time with you after school today. I thought we could do some drawing, or is there something you really want to do?’

3. Help them understand and connect to their brother or sister with a disability — A child’s understanding of disability varies depending on their own age. Some wonder, ‘Did I cause it?’, ‘Will it go away?’ or ‘Will I catch it?’ It’s best to answer a child’s questions as honestly as possible in language they understand. For example, ‘Tom has cerebral palsy, which means the muscles in his legs work differently than you and me. He needs to use a wheelchair right now, but he has people helping his legs work better’. Encouraging a child to take part in a sibling’s therapy activities sometimes helps them better understand their sibling’s disability.

Visit: mcbdd.org  

The post 3 Ways to Help Siblings of Children with Disabilities appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

Some examples of scams include:

• Phishing emails and unsolicited texts or phone calls asking for banking, credit card or other financial information.
• Fraudsters trying to get older adults to convert retirement assets into so-called “safer, guaranteed investments.”
• Imposters or hackers posing as friends or family members, asking older adults to send money immediately, usually by email or social media.

Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost’s office (ohioattorneygeneral.gov), provides some consumer tips on “signs of a scam,” which include:

• Being asked to wire money to a stranger or friend in need
• Being selected for a mystery shopping job, especially if you never applied
• Pressure to “act now!”
• Being asked to buy a prepaid money card
• Sending money in advance to secure or insure a loan 
• Winning a contest you’ve never heard of or entered
• Having to pay a fee to receive your “prize”
• Requests for your personal information
• Requests for a large down-payment
• A company that refuses to provide written information

In March 2026, AGE alerted Ohioans to reports of a phone scam involving individuals falsely claiming to represent the Golden Buckeye program. Residents reported receiving unsolicited calls from scammers attempting to obtain personal information, including protected data such as Social Security numbers. These calls are not from the Ohio Department of Aging.

“Fraud targeting older Ohioans isn’t just a financial threat, it’s an attack on their security and peace of mind,” says AGE Director Ursel McElroy. “Protecting older adults from scams is a responsibility we take seriously. When we empower people with the tools to recognize and report fraud, we help ensure that every older Ohioan can age with confidence and safety.”

Ohioans can report scam attempts to the Federal Trade Commission at reportfraud.ftc.gov or the Ohio Attorney General’s Office at inquiries.ohioattorneygeneral.gov. Anyone who believes they may have been a victim of a scam should contact their local law enforcement agency. The Ohio Department of Commerce is also a resource for information and tips about how to avoid fraud.

Source: Ohio Department of Aging, aging.ohio.gov

The post Help Your Aging Parents Avoid Scams appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

(Before attending, be sure to check venues  for updates.)

May 15-17
Cleveland Guardians Play Cincinnati Reds. Find tickets and game promotions at mlb.com/guardians/tickets

May 16-17

May 15

Beats and Bounces. Toddlers 12-24 months can jump, dance, sing and move. 9:30-10 a.m. Stow-Munroe Falls Public Library, 3512 Darrow Road, smfpl.org

May 15-31

Matilda, The Musical. A thrilling tale of a brilliant young girl, the power of courage, and standing up to injustice. Player’s Guild Theatre, 6000 Frank Ave. NW, N. Canton, playersguildtheatre.com

May 16

Sensory-Friendly Saturday at Cleveland Museum of Art events offer adaptations to meet diverse sensory-processing needs every third Saturday of each month from 9 to 10 a.m. Visit here for info.

The Everland – Family Princess Yoga. Join us for some family-friendly yoga with a princess. Learn fun yoga poses, practice breathing, and have fun with songs, games, and more. End the session with a photo opportunity and meet and greet with a princess from Northeast Ohio Creatives. Great Northern Mall. These sessions are intentionally designed for children 2-5, but all are welcome. Tickets are $15 for one child and one adult, $8 – additional children and $5 – additional adult. 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Visit here for more information.

Northeast Ohio Adventure Fest. Kid zone, speakers, skill sessions, outdoor organizations and more. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Downtown Cuyahoga Falls, opentrailcollective.org

Touch a Truck
Here’s your chance to see and touch all kinds of big trucks — fire truck, dump truck, police car, garbage truck, and much, much more.  Event held in the parking lot next to the Cuyahoga Library’s Brook Park Branch. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Visit here for info. Visit here for info.

Super Science Saturday. Learn more about resilient reptiles. 10:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Akron Fossils & Science Center, 2080 S. Cleveland Massillon Road, Copley,  akronfossils.com

Teen D&D. The third Saturday of the month is dedicated to a world of the unknown. Explore, collaborate, and use problem-solving skills to create adventures and solutions in a Dungeons & Dragons campaign that’s sure to be magical. Registration is recommended. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Cuyahoga Falls Library. Visit here for info.

May 16-17

Hornets, Wasps, and Bees, Oh My! at Susan Hambley Nature Center  12 to 5 p.m.  All ages are welcome. No registration is required. Free. 1473 Parschen Boulevard
Brunswick, Visit here for more info about this Medina County Metro Parks program

Cleveland Metroparks Annual Children’s Fishing Derbies. Attend free on  Saturday, May 16 at Wallace Lake, Millstream Run Reservation, Berea and Sunday, May 17  at Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation, Cuyahoga Heights  Kids can reel in big fun! Two sessions each day:  Children, ages 4 to 8 fish from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and  Youth, ages 9 to 15, fish from 12:30 to 2:00 p.m. Visit here for info

May 17

Bicycle Fun Day. Celebrate National Bicycle Safety Month with the City of Cuyahoga Falls at the 3rd Annual Bicycle Fun Day on Saturday, May 16 from 10-12 p.m.. All ages are welcome to ride, walk, or drive to this free event being held at Cuyahoga Falls City Hall parking lot. Get a free bicycle safety check provided by Wheel and Wrench, decorate a license plate or your helmet with Mobile Rec, and test your skills with bike challenges.  For more info, check Facebook event here or follow Cuyahoga Falls Parks and Recreation

Kids Nature Yoga. Join Happy Me Kids Yoga for our bi-monthly Kids Nature Yoga class.  Created to help kids feel confident, connected, and comfortable being themselves, this class gives them tools to manage stress, build self-esteem, and embrace rest and self-care. Following yoga, we will lead a craft and/or mindfulness activity in nature, such as a hike or nature-based project. Geared for ages 7 and over w/ adult. 12:15 to 1:45 p.m. Watershed Stewardship Center Confluence Room – West Creek Reservation. $5. Visit here for this Cleveland Metroparks program.

Kids Doing Comedy. A comedy extravaganza presented by kids ages 4-12. 3-4:30 p.m. Canton Comedy Boom, 324 Cleveland Ave., NE, Canton, cantoncomedyboom.com

Family (Get Out and Fish) Fishing at Hubbard Valley Park. Stop by any time between 1 ‑ 4 p.m. No fishing experience is necessary; we’ll have staff and volunteer fishermen to assist you and your family. A limited amount of rods and reels and bait will be available for use. Children must come with an adult companion. All ages are welcome. No registration is required. 8600 Hubbard Valley Road
Seville. Free. Visit here for more info about this Medina County Metro Parks program.

Spring into Nature (SPIN) with STEM is a free, family‑friendly event for K–8 students at the University of Akron’s Field Station that introduces them to the Bath Nature Preserve through fun, interactive activities and hands‑on stations focused on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. 1 to 4 p.m. Visit here for info about the event or follow on Facebook at Bath Township and Visit Bath Parks

Want to add your event this month? Email editor@northeastohioparent.com 

The post Things to Do with Kids this Weekend: May 15-17 appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

AKRON ART MUSEUM
Transfiguration: Rachel Libeskind and the Tiffany Window. Experience a restored historic Tiffany stained glass window depicting the Transfiguration of Christ, alongside new work. Through 7/5/26. 1 S. High St., akronartmuseum.org

AKRON CHILDREN’S MUSEUM
Farm to Table. Kids pick apples, gather eggs and pick vegetables; buy and sell from each other at the farmer’s market; and then put on a chef hat and make lunch. Akron Children’s Museum, 216 S. Main St., akronkids.org

AKRON FOSSILS & SCIENCE CENTER
Two-Acre Outdoor Play Park. A 60-foot giant slide, a four-person helicopter swing, a 200-foot zip line, a mini challenge course and an old-fashioned merry-go-round. 2080 S. Cleveland-Massillon Road, Copley, akronfossils.com

AKRON ZOO
Penguin Point. Look at the zoo’s Humboldt penguins on land, underwater, at water level and above the water, looking down into the penguin pool. 505 Euclid Ave., Akron, akronzoo.org

CANTON MUSEUM OF ART
On the Threshold of the Great Lakes. Geo Rutherford’s work uses collected Great Lakes materials and experimental printmaking to reveal the hidden ecological impacts of climate change, pollution and invasive species beneath deceptively clear waters. Through 7/26. 1001 Market Ave. N, cantonart.org

CHILDREN’S MUSEUM CLEVELAND
Making Miniatures. Children discover a fascinating collection of dollhouses and search through hands-on play. 3813 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, cmcleveland.org

CLEVELAND BOTANICAL GARDEN
Hershey Children’s Garden. Search for fish, frogs and turtles in the pond, learn about gardens, create in the sand box, care for plants with the water pump, and more. 11030 East Blvd., University Circle, cbgarden.org

CLEVELAND HISTORY CENTER
Hollywood on the Cuyahoga: Northeast Ohio and the Movies. Showcases the region’s important contributions to the movie industry, which brings over $100 million to the local economy each year. Through 10/31. 10825 East Blvd., wrhs.org

CLEVELAND METROPARKS ZOO
Asian Highlands. This immersive addition is home to Amur and snow leopards, red panda and a new species to the zoo, takin. 3900 Wildlife Way, futureforwildlife.org

THE CLEVELAND MUSEUM OF ART
ArtLens Gallery. A multifaceted, innovative experience that allows families and friends to look closer, dive deeper, and have fun discovering the museum’s collection. 11150 East Blvd., clevelandart.org

CLEVELAND MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY
Planetarium Show: Pop Stars of the Universe. With the aid of the James Webb Space Telescope, look deeper into the universe than ever before. Through 6/20/26. 1 Wade Oval Drive, cmnh.org

D&R INDOOR PLAYLAND
Two levels of indoor structure covering over 6,500 square feet. 6700 Biddulph Road, Brooklyn, drplayland.com

GREAT LAKES SCIENCE CENTER
Handle with Care. This immersive 2,000-square-foot early childhood exhibit is designed to support early experiences with empathy and engineering for the Science Center’s youngest guests. 601 Erieside Ave., Cleveland, greatscience.com

GREATER CLEVELAND AQUARIUM
Asia and Indonesia Gallery. Entering this gallery almost sends visitors into a zen serenity, and with those heightened senses you’ll love seeing some of the newest species — if you can find them. 2000 Sycamore St., greaterclevelandaquarium.com

HALE FARM & VILLAGE
Living History Museum. Explore 19th century life in the Western Reserve, including 32 historic structures, craft and trade demonstrations, farm animals and gardens. 2686 Oak Hill Village, Bath, wrhs.org

HOLDEN ARBORETUM
Murch Canopy Walk and Kalberer Emergent Tower. A 500-foot-long elevated walkway that’s 65 feet above the forest floor and a tower 12 stories tall provide a breathtaking view. 9500 Sperry Road, Kirtland, holdenarb.org 

LAKE ERIE NATURE & SCIENCE CENTER
Schuele Planetarium. An immersive learning experience through high-resolution, 360 degree images and a breathtaking display of stars. Lake Erie Nature & Science Center, 28728 Wolf Road, Bay Village, lensc.org

LAKE METROPARKS FARMPARK
The Arena/Well Bred Shed. Meet the sheep, pigs, goats, chickens and rabbits. See draft, light and miniature horses. 8800 Euclid Chardon Road, Kirtland, lakemetroparks.com

LITTLE DIGGERS PLAY SPACE
Your Neighborhood’s Largest Indoor Sandbox. Dig, build and explore with the magic of sand play with hundreds of toys and tons of sand. 3020 Westgate Mall Dr., Fairview Park, littlediggersplayspace.com

MALTZ MUSEUM OF JEWISH HERITAGE
Icons in Ink: The Jewish Comics Experience. Examines a wide range of Jewish themes and identities in comics, recognizing the diverse roots that have contributed to this unique art form. 5/7-8/23. 2929 Richmond Road, Beachwood, maltzmuseum.org

MCKINLEY PRESIDENTIAL MUSEUM
Frances Benjamin Johnston: White House Photographer. Learn about the photographer for Benjamin Harrison, Grover Cleveland, William McKinley and Theodore Roosevelt. Through 6/30. 800 McKinley Monument Drive NW, Canton, mckinleymuseum.org 

MUSEUM OF ILLUSIONS CLEVELAND
Illusion Rooms & Installations. Visitors can immerse themselves into the fascinating world of illusions and let these captivating rooms play tricks on their minds. 186 Euclid Ave., Suite 130, moicleveland.com

STAN HYWET HALL & GARDENS
Guided Manor House Tours. Experience the Manor House through the eyes of a trained tour guide and learn more about what life was like at the estate when the Seiberling family lived here. 714 N. Portage Path, Akron, stanhywet.org

The post Ongoing Attractions: Museum Exhibits, Features in Northeast Ohio appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

That love of books never left me, and as an adult, I felt like an avid reader.

However, when I became a parent and when the kids were little, my reading time became theirs.

I didn’t mind that my personal yearly book counts decreased, as it was time well spent with my sons.

They learned literacy skills and we laughed and snuggled when reading favorite stories or discovering new ones. When they became preteens and I was a mom chauffeur, I “read” my first audiobook. Honestly, at first, audiobooks were something I thought I wouldn’t do. I guess I felt I was cheating on the written word.

However, it’s been a game-changer, as it allows me to get through my book list faster.

We talk a lot about mom self-care and burnout in this issue. For me, self-care can be about remembering who you are and that it’s OK to immerse yourself in things you love, especially as our busy parenting life gets in the way. I think it also shows our kids that we are not just Mom and Dad, but we are people, too.

That’s why in this issue we highlight not just one, but three local mom authors who inspire us and show that anything can be accomplished.

I don’t know about you, but I am so happy for summer — not just because I am ready for the sunshine, but I also want the school year to be done.

This month, we look back and thank a few teachers who are making a difference in our children’s lives. We also look beyond May by giving tips to parents on how to get their kids engaged in summer activities.

For your little ones, starting in May we kick off our free summer event series at three different locations on Tuesdays: Little Legacy, Crocker Kids, and Fun at First & Main. Find the monthly themes for these family-friendly happenings at NortheastOhioParent.com.

With summer on the horizon, I admittedly am not looking forward to the “summer break fights” that occur between my two sons. If you have similar concerns, look at the story “Why do siblings annoy each other?”

Hopefully it helps.

While I was hoping my teens would latch onto my love of reading, they didn’t. Books don’t matter as much to them. Luckily, I have my mom. We made a pact this year to both read a certain number of books. I feel I’ve been doing pretty well, but I think she is still winning.

Happy Mother’s Day to all our mom readers, and especially to my own mom. Without her love and support, I couldn’t be the mom I am today.

The post Build Your Own Self Nook appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

ACHIEVEMENT CENTERS
achievementcenters.org/summercamps

ARCHBISHOP HOBAN HIGH SCHOOL
hoban.org/summer-camp

BECK CENTER FOR THE ARTS, LAKEWOOD
beckcenter.org/arts-education

BELLWETHER FARM CAMP
bellwetherfarm.com

BENEDICTINE SPORTS AND ACADEMIC CAMPS
cbhs.edu/camps

BEYOND WORDS: MUSIC, ART & DANCE CENTER
beyondwordscenter.org

BRAIN ENRICHMENT INITIATIVE (BEI)
Ready to level up this summer?  Bring your energy and join Brain Enrichment Initiative’s Brain Boot Camp in Richfield, Ohio — where growth meets fun. Designed to build confidence, resilience and brain wellness through hands-on experiences and learning. Develop social-emotional tools and mental health prevention strategies in a supportive environment. Open to motivated students in grades 6-10 who are ready to grow and connect. Spots are limited; secure your place today by registering here:
bit.ly/beibrainbootcamp

CAMP CANOPY
campcanopy.com

CAMP CARL SUMMER CAMP
campcarl.life

CAMP FITCH YMCA
campfitchymca.org

CAMP GILMOUR
gilmour.org/summercamp

CAMP INVENTION
Camp Invention® is coming to curious kids in Northeast Ohio this summer. Rising K-6 campers will collaborate with friends to tackle hands-on, open-ended challenges. They’ll ride the waves of entrepreneurship, build a DIY space rocket and more. Each experience is designed to inspire innovative thinking with fun-filled STEM experiences that spark creativity and a love for learning. Visit invent.org/save/summer-camp to secure your spot. Use promo code MYCAMP25 to save $25! Payment plans are available.

CAMP JCC OF AKRON
June 8-Aug. 14. Different weekly experiences allow campers to discover new hobbies and explore favorite interests. Specialty camp offerings include a variety of sports, creative arts, STEM and counselor-in-training sessions. All are welcome at the JCC, regardless of religious preference. Whether you choose a specialty or traditional camp, all campers attend from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. daily (aftercare available until 5:30 p.m.). Daily activities include swimming, art and games. Available for grades 1-12. Register at shawjcc.org/camp-j

CAMP NUHOP
nuhop.org

CHAGRIN VALLEY LITTLE THEATRE
cvlt.org/youth 

CLEVELAND CITY DANCE 
clevelandcitydance.com

CLEVELAND FOUNDRY COMMUNITY ROWING & SAILING ORGANIZATION
Cleveland Foundry Summer Camp offers hands-on rowing and sailing experiences on Lake Erie and the Cuyahoga River. Campers learn to row and sail through expert instruction, building confidence, teamwork, and leadership skills on the water. With a focus on safety, skill development and fun, programs combine outdoor adventure with real-world learning. Whether beginners or experienced, kids gain lifelong skills and unforgettable experiences at Cleveland’s premier community rowing and sailing center. clevelandfoundry.org

CLEVELAND HISTORY CENTER
wrhs.org

CLEVELAND METROPARKS
clevelandmetroparks.com/camps

CLEVELAND PLAY HOUSE SUMMER CAMPS
Dive into the world of theatre at Cleveland Play House Summer Camp. Your child or teen can discover and build upon their creative skills in a vibrant and exciting hands-on environment. Camps are available for all grades K-12, with offerings catered to different skill levels. Aftercare is available for grades K-8. Visit clevelandplayhouse.com/camps to sign up.

COMMON GROUND SUMMER CAMPS
Common Ground Center Summer Camps offer outdoor, adventure-filled day camps for ages 6-15 on a beautiful 30-acre campus in Oberlin, Ohio. Campers explore nature through hiking, art, music, ziplining and team-building activities designed to foster confidence, creativity and connection. With programs for all ages, including leadership opportunities for teens, Common Ground emphasizes inclusion, personal growth and hands-on learning in a safe, supportive environment. Financial aid is available. commongroundcenter.org/summer-camps

CREATIVE PLAYROOMS
creativeplayrooms.com

CUYAHOGA COMMUNITY COLLEGE
tri-c.edu/summercamps 

EARTHOLOGY 
earthologykids.org

FAIRMOUNT EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER
Fairmount Early Childhood Center Summer Camp accommodates children ages 3-5 years old. It includes weekly themes, outdoor activities, on-site learning experiences, art, water activities, and lots more fun in the sun. Seven weeks of camp are offered between June 15-July 31. Registration is currently open for residents and non residents. For more information and registration, please visit the website or contact Camp Director Jennifer Kobylski at 216-464-2600 or email jkobylski@beachwoodschools.org.
fairmount.beachwoodschools.org/summer-camp

FALCON CAMP
falconcamp.com

FARMER FOR A DAY CAMP
nickajackfarms.com

A SUMMER OF ARTFUL EXPRESSION AT THE FINE ARTS ASSOCIATION
fineartsassociation.org

FORGE THE FUTURE CAMP CLEVELAND
forging.org

FRIENDSHIP CIRCLE OF CLEVELAND
friendscleveland.com/programs

GEAUGA PARK DISTRICT
Geauga Park District is hosting its 14th annual summer camps this year, with space still available for youth entering grades 5 through 7 in week-long camps the weeks of June 1, June 8, June 22, July 13 and July 27. Fee: $150 for Geauga residents, $175 for others. bit.ly/gpdcamps2026

GELFAND STEM CENTER
The Gelfand STEM Center leverages the resources of Case Western Reserve University to engage preK-12 students in activities that introduce them to scientific practices and concepts and inspire a lasting interest in science and engineering.  The Center will change students’ lives in Northeast Ohio and beyond by preparing them to succeed in STEM-based careers, enabling them to make informed contributions to public discussions of important scientific issues, and fostering lifelong learning in science and engineering. Applications are now available for: Shipwreck Camp  2026:  July 6-17. Fun Science and Exploration for 12-16 year olds; Hands-on day camp includes shipwreck research,  canoe experience, introduction to SCUBA and more. gelfand.case.edu

GIRL SCOUTS OF NORTH EAST OHIO
gsneo.org/summercamp

HAWKEN SUMMER PROGRAMS
Hawken Summer Programs offer a variety of activities led by experienced professionals for boys and girls ages 3 to 18. Camps run between June and August, and offerings include day camps, passport camps, athletics camps and summer studies. These opportunities enable children to develop existing passions and discover new ones; they also provide exposure to new people and new skills, which helps build self-esteem, independence and confidence. For more information, contact summerprograms@hawken.edu, 440-423-2940, or visit summer.hawken.edu

NIKE YOUTH SPORTS CAMP
i9sports.com

JUMONVILLE CAMP & RETREAT CENTER
Jumonville Camp & Retreat Center is located 50 miles south of Pittsburgh in Pennsylvania’s beautiful Laurel Highlands. At Jumonville, kids learn to feel with their hearts, do with their hands, and live together in Christian community. Our campers are taught to appreciate life’s simplicity, the value of friendship, respect for our natural environment, and the thrill of adventure! With programs for a variety of ages and interests, families have been choosing Jumonville for 85 years. jumonville.org

JUMP START SPORTS SUMMER CAMPS
Jump Start Sports summer camps offer a fun, engaging experience for kids at convenient locations all over Northeast Ohio. The creative curriculum features fun weekly themes and a wide variety of sports, with a strong focus on FUNdamentals, character building, values, friendships and sports fundamentals. Camps are led by well-qualified, well-trained staff and designed with flexible schedules to meet family needs — so every child can learn, grow and have fun all summer long. linktr.ee/jumpstartsportsclevelandakron

LAKE COUNTY YMCA SUMMER CAMPS
There’s no place like YMCA Summer Camp: a home away from home where kids laugh, learn, explore and grow, all while creating memories and friendships that last a lifetime. The YMCA knows that every kid is different. That’s why it offers camps for your child’s needs. Financial assistance is available for those who qualify. Locations in Willoughby, Painesville and Madison. Learn about their sites and curriculum at lakecountyymca.org

LAKE ERIE NATURE & SCIENCE CENTER
lensc.org/summer-camps

LAKE RIDGE ACADEMY SUMMER CAMP
Make this summer unforgettable at Lake Ridge Academy. Held on its beautiful 93-acre campus, campers in grades K-8 can choose full- or half-day options that inspire curiosity, creativity and fun. From its signature Play @ LRA adventure and recreation program to enrichment camps in STEM, fine arts, athletics and outdoor exploration, there’s something for everyone. Experienced faculty and trusted partners lead activities that build new skills, friendships and memories. Register now. lakeridgeacademy.org/student-life/summer-programs

LIGHTS, CAMERA, CONNECTION!!
Campers use favorite film clips, games and creative projects to explore feelings, friendships and real-world social skills. Join them in Beachwood for 4 weeks of sessions from June 8 to July 3. Master communication, conflict resolution, problem-solving and teamwork through an exciting movie-themed adventure. Weekly sessions available. Early registration and multi-week discounts offered; $450 per week. Offered by Perspectives Academy and Jay H. Berk, Ph.D. & Associates. Contact: pasummercamp@jayberkphd.com or call 216-320-0180.

LUTHERAN WEST SUMMER CAMPS
lutheranwest.com/camps

MAGNIFICAT
magnificaths.org 

NATURE CENTER AT SHAKER LAKES
shakerlakes.org/camp

OBERLIN CHORISTERS WORLD MUSIC CAMP
ochoristers.org

ODYSSEY FILM CAMPS
csufilmodyssey.com

OHIO 529 COLLEGE ADVANTAGE
collegeadvantage.com

PROGRESS WITH CHESS
Enrich your child’s summer break with chess camp. Players receive plenty of individual attention in small groups of 10 or less, divided by age and skill level. Its instructors provide an organized and diverse schedule of chess activities. All camp schedules include breaks with outdoor recess. All participants receive a chess medal and Progress With Chess workbook, and all camps include a traditional “last day of chess camp” pizza party for players and their families.
progresswithchess.org

SCHOOL OF ROCK SUMMER MUSIC CAMPS
schoolofrock.com/music-camps

SNAPOLOGY OF CLEVELAND
snapology.com/ohio-cleveland

SOCIAL SKILLS 360
Social Skills 360 Overnight Camp (ages 8-20) runs July 26-Aug. 4 at Camp Aldersgate in Carrollton, Ohio. Directed by licensed clinical psychologist Dr. Jay Berk, the program focuses on building social skills, forming friendships, and reducing electronic overuse. Campers enjoy activities like swimming, fishing, archery, rock climbing and more, along with nightly structured, goal-oriented social skills groups. For more information or to register, visit socialskills360.com or call 216-223-3070. 

SPIRE ACADEMY
Give your athlete an unforgettable summer at SPIRE Camps! Set on a world-class facility situated on 850+ acres in Geneva, Ohio, SPIRE offers elite training in basketball, soccer, swimming, volleyball, wrestling, and track & field for athletes ages 8-18. With coaching from Olympic medalists and former collegiate D1 athletes, your child will build skills, confidence and character in a safe, supervised boarding or day camp environment designed to help them reach their full potential. Register today. spireacademy.com

TALESPINNER CHILDREN’S THEATRE SUMMER CAMP
Talespinner Children’s Theatre Summer Camps offer young performers a creative, engaging space to explore acting, musical theatre, storytelling and more. Led by experienced teaching artists, campers build confidence and develop performance skills in a supportive environment. With both weeklong themed camps and two full production camps, every child has a chance to shine on stage. Join them for a summer filled with imagination, growth and fun. Learn more at talespinnercle.org/camps

THE MUSIC SETTLEMENT
Give your child a summer filled with creativity at The Music Settlement (TMS)! TMS summer camps offer engaging music and arts experiences for every age and skill level. Campers discover new talents, build confidence, and explore self‑expression while strengthening skills in a supportive, inspiring environment. With programs for kids, teens and even adults, The Music Settlement makes it easy for families to find the perfect fit. Enroll your child in a summer that sparks joy and growth. musicsettlement.org

TOTAL EDUCATION SOLUTIONS OHIO
tesidea.com 

UNIVERSITY SCHOOL
us.edu/summer

WEST SIDE GYMNASTICS
westsidegymnastics.net

WILLOUGHBY-EASTLAKE PUBLIC LIBRARY
we247.org

YMCA CAMP TIPPECANOE
camptipp.org

YMCA HAYO-WENT-HA CAMPS 
hayowentha.org

The post Last Chance for Camp and Summer Programs: May 2026 Listings appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

May 21-24

Chagrin Falls Blossom Time Festival. Carnival games, food, rides, hot air balloon launch, live music and parade. cvjc.org

May 22-25

Berea Rib Cook-Off. A family-friendly environment with a picnic-style atmosphere. Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds, 164 Eastland Road, Berea, 440-234-5181, berearib.com

May 23-24

Soap Box Derby. Anyone between 7 and 20 years of age is eligible to compete. Derby Downs, 789 Derby Downs, Akron, akron.soapboxderby.org 

May 23-25

Renaissance Faire. Majestic creatures of the zoo meet the magic of a bygone age. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Akron Zoo, 505 Euclid Ave., Akron, akronzoo.org

Hartville Marketplace & Flea Market. Visit more than 1,000 indoor and outdoor vendors. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. 1289 Edison St. NW, Hartville, hartvillemarketplace.com

Free Passenger Fare for Active Military & Veterans. Miller Ferry to Put-in-Bay or Middle Bass Island. Miller Ferry, 5174 E. Water St., Port Clinton, millerferry.com

May 25

Hudson Memorial Day Parade & Ceremony. 10 a.m. Celebrate with family events, a parade and ceremony. hudson.oh.us

Green Memorial Day Parade, Ceremony & Car Show. Parade at 10 a.m. from Green High School. Ceremony at 12 p.m. at Green Veterans Memorial Park. Picnic and Car Show begins at 12:30 p.m. at John Torok Community Center. cityofgreen.org

Mentor Memorial Day Parade & Ceremony. Begins at Memorial Middle School, located at 8979 Mentor Ave., at 9:30 a.m. and continues north to the cemetery, arriving at the Mentor Memorial Promenade. cityofmentor.com

Tallmadge Memorial Day Parade & Service. Begins at 30 Wright Road at 9:30 a.m., moving onto West Ave. at 10 a.m. tallmadge-ohio.org

Warrensville Heights Memorial Day Parade. The parade proceeds along  Warrensville Center Road from Halifax Road to Old City Hall. 10 a.m.-12 p.m., cityofwarrensville.com

The post 2025 Memorial Day Weekend Events in Northeast Ohio appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

sponsored by

May is National Water Safety Awareness Month and the water safety experts at Goldfish Swim School want every family to have the skills that they need to be safer in and around the water all year round.

But first the facts – did you know that:

• Drowning remains the #1 cause of death for children ages 1-4, and the second leading cause of unintentional injury death for children 5-14
• More children ages 1–4 die from drowning than any other cause of death
• 70% of toddler drownings happen when the child isn’t expected to be in the water (non-swim time)
• Children younger than 1 year old are more likely to drown at home, and for children younger than 5, 87% of drowning fatalities happen in home pools or hot tubs
• 50% of children drown within 25 yards of a parent or other adult
• 88% of child drownings occur with at least one adult present
• Taking formal swim lessons can reduce the risk of drowning by up to 88%

Enrolling in swim lessons is just the first step on your family’s water safety journey. Keep these safety tips in mind:

• Ditch the floaties! Instead, seek out Coast Guard-Approved life jackets! These regulated and consistent floatation devices, when fitted correctly, allow for proper breathing and swimming for kiddos of all ages.
• Follow the rules! Review rules together as a family before letting your kids loose to enjoy the water. Pay special attention to pool hours, and always schedule your swims when lifeguards are present, if possible. Throw a life preserver first before jumping to a person’s aid!
• Wear bright colors! The best swimsuit colors are bright and can be distinguished in the water – lean towards pink, purple, orange, yellow and green for the clearest view of your child no matter how wavy the water.
• Designate a water watcher – an adult, whose responsibility needs to be keeping an eye on the swimmers is a must this summer. Vigilance is key – no chatting, no checking your phone, no distractions.
• Utilize layers of protection around pools including fences and door alarms. Many drowning incidents occur during non-swim times.

As you review these  water safety reminders with your kids, it’s a great time to ask yourself if your kids are water-ready?! If not, swim by one of the 5 Cleveland-area Goldfish Swim School locations (Cleveland East Side, Fairview Park, Hudson, North Canton and Strongsville) to learn more about signing up for swim lessons. Goldfish Swim School offers year-round, indoor swim lessons for kids ages 4 months through 12 years-old.

Visit the Goldfish Swim School website for more water safety information, helpful checklists and other resources to keep your family safe in and around water.

The post Water Safety Isn’t a ‘May’ It’s a MUST! appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

Serves 4

Here’s what you need:

1¼ pounds boneless, skinless chicken tenders
2 eggs
1¼ cups Italian breadcrumbs
¾ cup all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons salt
1 Tablespoon garlic powder

Here’s what you do:

Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper or foil sprayed with non-stick cooking spray.

In a medium bowl, mix the   flour, salt and garlic powder.

In a small bowl, beat the eggs.

In another medium bowl, add the breadcrumbs.

Taking one piece at a time, coat each chicken tender in the flour mixture, then dip it in the egg, and then coat it fully in breadcrumbs.

Place the breaded chicken tenders on the sheet pan, leaving space between each piece and being careful not to overcrowd the pan.

When all chicken tenders are on the pan, lightly spray the breaded tenders with oil or non-stick spray.

Bake for 15 minutes, flip the chicken, then bake another 10 to 15 minutes, or until cooked through and crisp.

Serve with your favorite dipping sauce. Some examples: ranch dressing, ketchup, mustard, buffalo sauce or honey.

The post Recipe of the Month: Oven Baked Chicken Tenders appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

(Before visiting, be sure to check each market for updates.)

Cuyahoga County

Chagrin Falls/North Union Farmers Market
Band Stand Triangle Park, at N. Franklin St. & N. Main St., Chagrin Falls
Sundays, 9 a.m.-noon
June 7 – October 25
northunionfarmersmarket.org

Cleveland Clinic/North Union Farmers Market
Across from the Crile Building at 2049 E. 100th St., between Carnegie and Euclid avenues, Cleveland
Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
June 3 – October 28
northunionfarmersmarket.org

Crocker Park/North Union Farmers Market
At the corner of Crocker and Detroit roads in the parking lot of Fidelity Investments, 1800 Crocker Road, Westlake
Saturdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Through December 19 (indoor location in the winter, check crockerpark.com)
northunionfarmersmarket.org

Frostville Museum Farmers Market
24101 Cedar Point Road, North Olmsted
Saturdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
May-October
frostvillefarmersmarket.com

Glenville Gateway 105 Market
1322 E. 105th St., Cleveland
Fridays, 3-7 p.m.
Saturdays, 1-4 p.m.
May-September
famicos.org/gateway105

Kamm’s Corners Farmers Market
16906 Albers Ave., Cleveland
Sundays, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Mid-June to mid-October
westparkkamms.org/market

Lakewood/North Union Farmers Market
Madison Park, 13201 Madison Ave.
Wednesdays, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
June 10 – October 14
northunionfarmersmarket.org

LEAF Community Farmers Market
In front of Lakewood Public Library, 15425 Detroit Ave.
Thursdays, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
June-October
leafcommunity.org

Legacy Village/North Union Farmers Market
25001 Cedar Road, Lyndhurst
Sundays, 9 a.m.-noon
June-September
northunionfarmersmarket.org

Old Brooklyn Farmers Market
Loew Park, parking lot on the corner of West 30th St. and Oak Park Ave., Cleveland
Thursdays, 5-8 p.m.
July 9-September 24
oldbrooklyn.com/market

Shaker Square/North Union Farmers Market
13209 Shaker Square, Cleveland
Saturdays, 8 a.m.-noon
Through December 19
northunionfarmersmarket.org

StoneWater Farmer & Provision Market
StoneWater Golf Club, 1 Club Drive, Highland Heights
TBA
stonewatergolf.com

Tremont Farmers Market
Lincoln Park, W. 14th St. between Kenilworth and Starkweather, Cleveland
Tuesdays, 4-7 p.m.
May 19 – September 29
tremontfarmersmarket.com

University Hospitals/North Union Farmers Market
2074 Adelbert Road, Cleveland
Thursdays, 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
June 4 – October 15
northunionfarmersmarket.org

Van Aken District/North Union Farmers Market
Parking lot next to Brassica and Market Hall, Shaker Heights
Thursdays, 4-7 p.m.
June 11 – September 17
northunionfarmersmarket.org

Geauga County

Chardon Family Market
Chardon square
Saturdays, 8:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
June 6 – August 29
chardonsquareassociation.org

Geauga Fresh Farmers Market
5205 Chillicothe Road, South Russell
Saturdays, 9 a.m.-noon
Through October 10
geaugafarmersmarket.com

Lake County

Madison Village Outdoor Market
Madison Village Square, 60 Park St.
Thursdays, 5-8 p.m.
June 4 – August 13
Click here for information

Mentor Farmers Market
Eleanor Garfield Park, 7967 Mentor Ave.
Fridays, 2-6 p.m.
June 12-September 11
mentorfarmersmarket.com

Painesville Farmers Market
Veteran’s Park on the Square
Thursdays, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
May 28-September 17
painesville.com/farmersmarket

Willoughby Outdoor Market
City Hall parking lot, 1 Public Square
Saturdays, 8 a.m.-noon
May-October
heartofwilloughby.com

Lorain County

Oberlin Farmers Market
69-85 S. Main St.
Saturdays, 9 a.m.-noon
May 16-October 10
oberlinfarmersmarket.info

Medina County

Farmers Market of Medina County
Cornerstone Chapel, 3939 Granger Road, Medina
Saturdays, 9 a.m.-noon
Through  November 14
farmersmarketofmedina.com

Medina Square Farmers Market
Medina Public Square
Saturdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
May 16 – October 10
mainstreetmedina.com

Seville Farm Market
Maria Stanhope Park, 73 W. Main St.
Saturdays, 9 a.m.-noon
May-September
facebook.com/sevillefarmmarket

Main Street Wadsworth Farmers Market
Central Intermediate School, 151 Main St.
Saturdays 9 a.m.-noon, July 11 – September 26
Wednesdays 5-8 p.m., July 8, August 12 & September 9
mainstreetwadsworth.org

Portage County

Garrettsville Farmers’ Market
Main Street
Thursdays, 4-7 p.m.
June 4 -August 27
garrettsvillefarmermarket.org

Haymaker Farmers Market
Franklin Ave. between Main St. and Summit St., Kent
Saturdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. May-November
haymakermarket.com

Stark County

Canton Farmers Market
340 4th St. NW
Saturdays, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
June-October
cantonfarmersmarket.com

Hartville MarketPlace & Flea Market
1289 Edison St. NW, Hartville
Indoor Shops & Farmers Market open 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday, Thursday, Friday & Saturday
hartvillemarketplace.com

Jackson Township Farmers Market
North Park, 7454 Community Pkwy., Massillon
Thursdays, 3-6 p.m.
July-September
jacksontwp.com/farmers-market

Summit County

Cuyahoga Valley Farmers Market
Howe Meadow, 4040 Riverview Road, Peninsula
Saturdays, 9 a.m.-noon
May-October
cuyahogavalleyfarmersmarket.org

Farmers’ Market in the Falls
Cuyahoga Falls
Times/season TBA
cityofcf.com

City of Green Farmers Market
Times/season TBA
cityofgreen.org

Hudson Farmers Market
Village Greens, corner of SR 303 and SR 91
Saturdays, 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
June 6-October 10
hudsonfarmersmarket.org

Stow Community Farmers Market
1567 Pilgrim Drive
Saturdays, 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
May 30-October 3
stowfarmersmarket.com

Tallmadge Farmers Market
Tallmadge Recreation Center Parking Lot, 46 N. Munroe Road
Thursdays, 4-7 p.m.
June 11-October 8
tallmadge-ohio.org/190/farmers-market

The post Discover Northeast Ohio Farmers Markets appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

To have your VBS or VBC program included in this list please submit your info to calendar@northeastohioparent.com

CUYAHOGA COUNTY

Divinity Lutheran Church
Food Truck Party: On a Roll with God!
June 15-19, 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
11877 Blossom Ave., Parma Heights
440-885-2060
divinitylutheran.com
Ages 4 through grade 6

New Hope Reformed Church
Theme TBA
July 27-31, 9:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
22960 Lorain Road, Fairview Park
440-779-4766
newhoperca.com
Ages Pre-K thru 6th grade
Cost $5 child/$8 family for the whole week

New Life Church Lakewood
TBA
14224 Detroit Ave, Lakewood, 216-221-6174
lnlc.org
Ages 4-11, Free

NEO Church
June 22-25, 6-8:30 p.m.
7593 Elmhurst Dr., Seven Hills
440-895-7373
neo.churchcenter.com

Our Redeemer Lutheran Church
TBA
7196 SOM Center Road, Solon, 440-248-4066
orlcsolon.org/vbs, $30

Parkside Church
June 8-12, 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
7100 Pettibone Road, Chagrin Falls
parksidechurch.com
440-543-1212
Ages 4 through grade 5 (completed)

Parma Park Church of God
TBA
12000 Huffman, Parma, 440-884-7900
parmaparkchurch.com
Free

Pioneer Memorial Presbyterian Church
Rainforest Falls: Exploring the Nature of God
June 22-26, 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
35100 Solon Road, Solon
440-248-5260
pioneersolon.org/vbs
Ages 3 through 6th grade, $35 per child

Rocky River United Methodist Church
Rainforest Falls: Exploring the Nature of God
June 22-26, 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
19414 Detroit Road, Rocky River
440-331-7676
rrumc.org/vbs
5 years old through 6th grade, $70 per child

Saint Rita Church
Rainforest Falls: Exploring the Nature of God
June 8-12, 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
32820 Baldwin Road, Solon
440-248-1350
stritaparish.com/vacation-bible-school
Ages 4 through grade 4, $60 per child; $150 maximum per family

Ss. Robert & William Catholic Parish
God is Good: Set Sail With Jesus
June 22-26, 9:30 a.m.-12 p.m. OR June 23, 6-8 p.m.
367 E. 260th St., Euclid, 216-731-1515
srweuclid.cc/vbs
Kindergarten through 4th grade, free

St. Brendan Parish
SonTreasure Island
June 22-26
4242 Brendan Lane, North Olmsted
440- 777-7222
stbrendannortholmsted.org/vacationbibleschool.aspx
Kindergarten through 6th grade

St. Dominic Parish
TBA
3450 Norwood Road, Shaker Heights, 216-991-1444
stdominicchurch.net
Ages 3 through 3rd grade, $50

United Methodist of Chagrin Falls
Hero Hotline: Called Together to Serve God
June 15-19, 5:30-8 p.m
20 S. Franklin St., Chagrin Falls
440- 247-5848
chagrinfallsumc.org
$15 per child ($5 add-on for early drop-off)

GEAUGA COUNTY

Chesterland Baptist Church
Rome VBS
June 14-18, 6-8 p.m.
12670 Chillicothe Road, Chesterland, 440-729-7101
chesterlandbaptist.org
Ages 4 through 5th grade, free

Cornerstone Bible Church
TBA
15029 Enterprise Way, Middlefield, 440-834-1925
cornerstoneneo.com

Horizons Christian Assembly
Emerald Crossing: An Irish Adventure Through Psalm 23
June 15-19, 5:30-8 p.m.
14920 White Road, Middlefield
440-834-4776
horizons4you.com
Kindergarten through 5th grade

St. Mary Catholic Parish
Rainforest Falls: Exploring the Nature of God
June 15-19, 9:15 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
401 North St., Chardon
440-285-7051
stmarychardon.org/vbs
Kindergarten through 7th grade, $45 per child; $80 two children; $110 three or more children

LAKE COUNTY

Erieside Church
Illumination Station: Shining a Light on Who Jesus Really Is
June 15-19, 5:30-8:30 p.m.
221 E. 320th St., Willowick,
440-943-0151
erieside.org
Preschool-7th grade, free

Immaculate Conception Church
Rainforest Falls: Exploring the Nature of God
June 8-12, 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
2846 Hubbard Road, Madison
440-428-5164
iccmadison.com/vbs
Kindergarten through 5th grade, free

Mentor Baptist Church
M.P. Wiggleworth’s Three Ring Circus
June 1-5, 6:30-8:15 p.m.
7500 Johnnycake Ridge Rd., Mentor
440-942-8278
mentorbaptist.org
Potty-trained 3 year olds – completed 5th grade, free

Mentor United Methodist Church
Road Trip: On the Road with God
June 22-26, 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
8600 Mentor Ave, Mentor
440-255-3496
mentorumc.org
Ages 4 through 6th grade, $20 per child

Grace Church of Mentor
Emerald Crossing: An Irish Adventure Through Psalm 23
July 6-9, 9 a.m.-12 p.m. (Junior; ages 4 through completed kindergarten); $5 per child
July 13-17, 9 a.m.-3:15 p.m. (Grades 1-6); $25 per child
6883 Reynolds Road, Mentor
440-255-7045
gracechurchmentor.org

St. Mary Magdalene
Be a Hero: Joining Forces With Jesus
July 13-17, 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
32114 Vine St., Willowick
440-943-2133
smmwillowick.org/vacation-bible-school
Ages 4 through 5th grade, $25 per child registered before 6/8; $35 per child registered after 6/8.

Trinity Church
Kingdom Quest: An Epic Journey to Discover God’s Kingdom!
June 22-25, 9 a.m-12 p.m.
9225 Johnnycake Ridge Road, Mentor
trinitymentor.com
440-974-9614
Kindergarten through 5th grade, $12 per child 

Willoughby Hills United Methodist Church
Illumination Station: Shining a Light on Who Jesus Really Is
July 6-10, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Campbell Park, 35405 Chardon Road, Willoughby Hills
440-585-9462
whumc.us
Ages 3 years to 12th grade, $135 per child for youth participants; $90 per junior counselor participant (rising 8th-12th graders)

Zion Lutheran Church
Tropical Trek: Jesus Comes to Seek and Save
June 8-12, 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
508 Mentor Ave., Painesville
440-357-5174
zionpainesville.com
Ages 4 through 5th grade, free

LORAIN COUNTY

A Fresh Wind Church
Illumination Station: Shining a Light on Who Jesus Really Is
June 13-17, 6-8:30 p.m.
45155 Telegraph Road, Elyria
440-636-8300
afreshwind.org
Kindergarten through 6th grade, free

Avon Lake Presbyterian Church
TBA
32340 Electric Blvd, Avon Lake,440-934-2567
avonlakechurch.com
$40 

Harvest Ridge Church
Emerald Crossing: An Irish Adventure Through Psalm 23
June 8-11, 6-8 p.m.
35600 Lorain Road, North Ridgeville
440-327-0024
harvestridge.net
Pre-K through 5th grade, free

Henrietta United Methodist Church
Road Trip: On the Go With God
July 15 & 16, 6-8:30 p.m.
52148 Telegraph Road, Amherst
440-965-2400
henriettaumc.org/vbs
Family VBS: kids ages 3+ through adults welcome, free

Hope Christian Church
Rainforest Falls: Exploring the Nature of God
June 22-26, 6-8 p.m.
32625 Detroit Road, Avon, 440-937-9602
hopechristianchurch.com
Ages 3 through 6th grade, $25 per child

House of Praise International Church
Rainforest Falls: Exploring the Nature of God
June 24-26, 6-8:30 p.m.
4321 Elyria Ave., Lorain
440-233-6433
hopchurch.org
PreK through 5th grade

MEDINA COUNTY

Bethel Church Cleveland
Illumination Station: Shining a Light on Who Jesus Really Is
June 17-19, 6-8:30 p.m.
197 N. Carpenter Rodd, Brunswick
440-243-9001
bethelcleveland.com/vbs
Kindergarten through 5th grade, free

Grace Church, Medina East Campus
TBA
2325 Medina Road, Medina, 330-239-2600
medinaeast.gracechurches.org
Ages 4 through 5th grade, Free

Medina United Methodist Church
Rainforest Falls: Exploring the Nature of God
July 12-16, 6-9 p.m.
4747 Foote Road, Medina
330-725-4943
medinaumc.com
Ages 4 through 6th grade, free

Northside Christian Church
TBA
4281 Ridge Road, Wadsworth, 330-336-4622
northsideweb.org
K-6th grade

Prince of Peace Lutheran Church
Emerald Crossing: An Irish Adventure Through Psalm 23
June 8-11,  9 a.m. -12 p.m.
3355 Medina Road, Medina
330-723-8293
princepeace.org
Pre-K through 5th grade, free

Saint Ambrose Catholic Parish
Rainforest Falls: Exploring the Nature of God
July 6-10, 9 a.m.-12 p.m. or 1-4 p.m
929 Pearl Road, Brunswick
stambrose.us/vbs
330-460-7300
Children 4 years old by September 30th
$35/first child, $20/second, $65 per family

Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church
To Mars and Beyond
June 8-12, 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
2233 Abbeyville Road, Valley City
330-483-3873
zionvc.org
Pre-K through 6th grade, free

PORTAGE COUNTY

Cornerstone Church of Aurora
Rainforest Falls: Exploring the Nature of God
June 22-26, 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
79 E. Mennonite Road, Aurora
330-562-8233
cornerstoneaurora.com
Ages 3 through 3rd grade, $20

HIS Ministry
TBA
3051 State Route 82, Aurora, 330-562-1212
hisministrychurch.com

Kent United Methodist Church
TBA
1435 E. Main St., Kent, 330-678-5879
kentmethodist.org

Riverwood Chapel
Rainforest Falls: Exploring the Nature of God
July 8-11, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
1407 Fairchild Ave., Kent
330-678-7000
riverwoodchapel.org
Ages 5 through 4th grade, free

Silver Creek Church
Connect
June 8-11, 9 a.m.-12 p.m. (Kick-Off Night June 7, 6:30-7:30 p.m.)
252 N. Chillicothe Road, Aurora, 330-562-3438
silvercreekchurch.com
Ages 4-11, $20

Streetsboro United Methodist Church
Snowball Mountain Challenge: Find Your Strength in God
July 6-10, 9:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
8940 St. Rt. 43 , Streetsboro
330-626-4393
streetsboroumc.com
Kindergarten through 6th grade, $35 per child; $50 max per family

SUMMIT COUNTY

Christ Community Chapel
Wave Maker
June 22-25
750 W. Streetsboro St., Hudson
330-650-9533
ccchapel.com/kidscamp
Ages 4 through 4th grade, $15

Connect Church
Camp Connect and the Mushroom Kingdom
July 12-15, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
578 Killian Road, Coventry Twp.
330-745-8824
connectchurch.xyz/vbs
Ages 3 through 5th grade, free

New Life Church
From Kid to King and Everything in Between: Stories From the Life of David
June 22-25, 6:15-8:30 p.m.
4415 Darrow Road, Stow, 330-562-6285
newlifechurchonline.com
Ages 4 through 5th grade, free

Northampton United Methodist Church
TBA
852 W Bath Rd, Cuyahoga Falls, 330-929-0015
numchurch.org
Ages 4 through 5th grade

Queen of Heaven Parish
Rainforest Falls: Exploring the Nature of God
June 22-26, 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
1800 Steese Road, Green
330-896-2345
queenofheavenparish.org/vacation-bible-school
Kindergarten through 5th grade, $25 per child; $40 per family

Saint Joseph Parish
TBA
1905 Portage Trail, Cuyahoga Falls, 330-928-2173
saintjoe.org/vbs
PreK-5th grade, $35

Saint Sebastian Parish
The Great Journey With Jesus
July 20-24, 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
476 Mull Ave., Akron
330-836-2233
stsebastian.org/church/vacation-bible-school
Ages 4 through 5th grade, $25 

Saints Cosmas and Damian Catholic Church
Starry Night, Holy Words
June 15-19, 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
10419 Ravenna Road, Twinsburg
330-425-8141
catholictwinsburg.org/vbs
Pre-K through 5th grade, $40 per child; discounts for multiple children 

Springfield Assembly of God
TBA
1551 Canton Road, Akron, 330-733-8701
springfieldassembly.net/event/true-north-vacation-bible-school

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church
Rainforest Falls: Exploring the Nature of God
June 15-17, 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
1361 W. Market St., Akron
330-836-9327
stpaulsakron.org/vacation-bible-school
Ages 4-12, Free

Tallmadge Lutheran Church
Rainforest Falls: Exploring the Nature of God
June 8-12, 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
759 East Ave., Tallmadge
330-633-4775
tlcoh.org/vbs
Ages 4 through 6th grade, Free

The post Vacation Bible Schools (VBS) and Camps (VBC) for Summer 2026 appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

The thing is, although these things might work fine, they won’t work as well as having the right tools would, and you’re probably wasting time, money, and energy when it’s far easier to invest in the right tools and do the work correctly the first time. With that in mind, here are some reasons to do just that. 

You’ll Be Less Frustrated 

You can usually tell quite easily when a business has basically outgrown its own systems because tasks that shouldn’t take very long end up taking ages – and the time they take might even be increasing as you get busier and the systems you’ve put in place are under more pressure. 

When that happens, people start to get frustrated, and they’ll create workarounds for everything, which might work temporarily, but the overall result is usually chaos and confusion, especially for anyone new coming into the business. 

Staff End Up Doing Two Jobs At Once 

Have you really looked into what your team’s doing? Could it be that a lot of your employees are doing more than one job when they don’t need to? It could be that they’re doing one actual job, but they’re also doing another job because they’ve got to manage the systems around the first job. 

So if someone spends half their day chasing missed documents, converting files manually, reorganizing folders, and so on, they’re not really focusing on their work anymore – their attention is always split between the task and the process around it. If you’ve got the right tools in place, like a file transfer tool to make sending large files quick and easy without needing any special and secret steps in place, then things speed up and everyone’s much happier. 

Tools Don’t Have To Be Complicated 

It’s easy to just assume that better tools are going to be complicated and expensive, and that you’ll need to take ages to train everyone to use them properly, but that’s not necessarily the case. A lot of the time you’ll be able to find simple fixes to the problems you’ve got, and as long as that fix works whenever people need it to, they’ll use it. That’s really the key at the end of the day. 

Final Thoughts 

The right tools are crucial in business because they mean work can be done faster, better, more efficiently, and with few mistakes, and that’s something all business owners and their employees are going to want. So if you’ve been holding onto the wrong tools for too long, it’s time to make some changes and put the right ones in place because the difference is sure to be a big one.

The post Why You Need To Use The Right Tools In Business  appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

Karmi has her own YouTube channel, Play in the CLE with Karmi. She’s also an affiliate of Cleveland 13 News, making her their youngest news reporter.

You will see Karmi on @NEOhioParent social media channels as she shares her experiences around the region. 

With a little help from her mom, Nikkie Brown, learn more about Karmi:

What’s your favorite food? Cheese pizza

What’s your favorite ice cream flavor? Birthday cake 

What’s your favorite place in the Cleveland area to visit? The zoo

What sports or activities do you enjoy doing? Competitive Irish dancing

If you could have any superpower, which one would you choose? Breathing underwater

Who is your favorite character from a movie or book? Winifred Sanderson from “Hocus Pocus” 

What is your favorite subject in school? Library

What is your favorite thing about being a kid reporter? Interviewing people and getting to know them

What do you want to be when you grow up? Be famous and a YouTuber

TikTok: @playintheclewithkarmi,  Instagram: @cle_karmi

The post Meet the New Kid Ambassador for Northeast Ohio Parent appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

Take Care Of Your Health First

Safety is your first priority. If your car is blocking traffic and can be moved, pull over to a safe location, turn on your hazard lights, and make sure that everyone is ok. Call emergency services if anyone is hurt, and do not consider pursuing the fleeing driver, as it can put you at further risk and even complicate your insurance claim down the line. Make sure that you see a doctor, even if no injuries are immediately visible, as some symptoms, like dizziness or neck pain, might not appear immediately.

Call The Police

When everyone’s immediate safety is confirmed, call 911 or the local police. Give the dispatcher your location, vehicle description, direction the other driver traveled, and any details you remember, such as license plate numbers, color, make, model, damage, stickers, or the driver’s appearance. The more you’re able to provide, the better the chance that the perpetrator will be caught, and make sure that you get a copy of the accident report for your insurance company.

Notify Your Insurance Company

Consider how you’re going to cover the costs of any medical treatment or necessary repairs. Does insurance cover hit and run? In the vast majority of cases, yes, they do, but you should still be careful when reporting to your insurance company. Avoid admitting any fault or minimizing injuries before you’ve had the chance to see the doctor, and keep copies of all emails, claim numbers, and estimates. 

Gather Evidence At The Scene

If it’s safe, take the time to collect what evidence you can before leaving the scene. This can include photos of the accident scene, the surrounding road, and your vehicle, documenting damage, skid marks, debris, road signs, and any visible injuries. Check for nearby cameras on homes, businesses, or dashcams that you could potentially use for a claim later, and ask witnesses for their names or contact information. Do not get into any arguments or pressure them if they don’t want to cooperate, however.

Should You Call A Lawyer?

It may be tricky to decide whether or not to get a lawyer involved, especially if there’s no other driver to press a claim on. However, they can help you if your insurance company disputes coverage or to determine if any other parties were responsible. For example, there may be claims involving defective road design, negligent security, or commercial vehicles that can be tracked.

A hit and run can leave you feeling confused, panicked, and deeply upset. Hopefully, the tips above help you find the next step to take, even while you’re dealing with the emotional fallout, to increase your chances of seeing justice and to take care of yourself.

The post The First Steps To Take After A Hit And Run appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

Also, congratulations to Michelle from Twinsburg who won the four-pack of tickets to the Greater Cleveland Aquarium!

We will be announcing the winners and runner-ups in early June on our website and social media and it will published in the June/July issue of Northeast Ohio Parent magazine!

The post Thank You for Voting in the Northeast Ohio Parent Choice Awards! appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

For young athletes hungry to level up, that environment is everything. Exposure to elite-level expectations changes how athletes carry themselves, how they compete, and what they believe is possible.

Whether your athlete is refining fundamentals or chasing a college roster spot, SPIRE meets them where they are and pushes them further than they expected to go.

Why SPIRE?

• 750,000+ sq. ft. of elite athletic facilities
• Multi-sport programming for athletes ages 8–18
• Coaching staff with professional and collegiate credentials
• Residential campus with full athlete support

The question isn’t whether your athlete is ready for SPIRE. It’s whether they’re ready to find out what they’re capable of.

Visit here to learn more about SPIRE Academy.

The post Camp of the Week: SPIRE Academy appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

This was last May, and guess what? I survived. In fact, I am getting ready for summer number two on the Cuyahoga River, rowing with the Western Reserve Rowing Association.

As a mom, I’d forgotten how it felt to be the kid showing up, knowing nothing and knowing no one. Standing there trying to find my team and not knowing what to do, the pit in my stomach reminded me how resilient my kiddo was time after time in summer camp after summer camp, musical theater audition after musical theater audition, first day of school, last day of school, etc.

Somewhere along my journey of parenthood, I had stopped pursuing the experiences that stretched me as I watched my child grow into an amazing young human.

Something else happened last year; my daughter graduated from high school and left for college. Every mama heart feels all the feels of watching our child achieve milestones. When that happened, I began the hard work of writing my next chapter, too.

It’s been a year of growth and change for both her and me. And, just like every season of parenthood, I’m learning and continuing to grow. 

I’m still worried about screen time and where she is hanging out, but I’ve also grown in confidence in her decision-making. And, as I’ve let go a little of the day-to-day parenting, I’ve searched for new purposes and other passions.

That purpose and passion I now refer to as “texture” in my life. It’s truly the little things — whether experiences or simple observations — that complement my life, not just as a mom, but as a human.

Parenthood has been all-consuming — 24/7 — and there was a lot of magic in those years. At times, though, I got lost — even a little bored — in the routine.

In January, as the calendar turned to another year, I launched the “texture project,” my own little venture as I tried to remain cool or hip or whatever the current word is, and I subscribed to a “word of the year” fad. I’m leaning into texture. Not texture in my outfits (though they could use some help!), or in my home decor (again, could use some expertise), but texture in my life. I’m leaning into a life designed with moments.

I’m curating experiences that complement the many blessings I have — from my child to the dreams that I put on a shelf at times during my years in parenthood. I’ve been stretching myself to open that door a bit wider and to live a little bit more. In some ways, this is my self-care…it’s perhaps the best self-care.

What would you add if you could add a little texture to your life? It might just be the best self-care you can give yourself this month. Perhaps I’ll see you on the dock down by the Cuyahoga River. I promise, we’ll be okay as we stretch ourselves outside our comfort zones. Us mamas have to stick together.

Fleming-Gifford holds a master’s degree in family and consumer sciences with a specialization in child development. Equal parts strategist and storyteller, she’s passionate about the intersection of people, purpose and possibility. When she’s not connecting communities or championing big ideas, you’ll likely find her outdoors, immersed in the arts, listening to (or making) music, or writing. She is the author of “SymFUNNY,” a children’s book, and “The Gift I Never Wanted,” a memoir that explores resilience and growth. Visit her blog “Simplicity Soup” at northeastohioparent.com/bloggers.

The post Life in Texture…This Mama’s Solution appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

That uncomfortable emotional and physical shift is sometimes described as oxytocin withdrawal. While not an official medical diagnosis, it’s a real experience for many people who go through major changes in relationships, hormones, or life circumstances.

Understanding oxytocin withdrawal can help explain why breakups hurt so deeply, why post-pregnancy mood changes feel so intense, and why certain transitions in life can feel emotionally destabilizing.

What Is Oxytocin?

Oxytocin is released during moments of bonding, such as hugging, kissing, sexual intimacy, and even deep conversations. It surges during childbirth and breastfeeding, reinforcing attachment between parent and baby. 

Over time, the brain learns to associate oxytocin with safety and emotional reward. When those sources of connection suddenly stop or decrease, the body can react in ways that feel similar to withdrawal from other feel-good chemicals, such as dopamine.

Interestingly, some people become more aware of hormone shifts when managing other aspects of their health, including vaginal care products like boric acid suppositories, which are sometimes used to support vaginal balance. While these products don’t directly affect oxytocin, the overall theme is the same: when the body’s chemistry changes, the mind often feels it, too.

Oxytocin withdrawal doesn’t mean the hormone disappears completely. Instead, it reflects a noticeable dip from a previously high level. The brain, accustomed to regular surges of bonding hormones, may struggle to rebalance. This can make emotional pain feel sharper and more personal, even when the trigger is a normal life change.

What Are Common Symptoms of Oxytocin Withdrawal?

Symptoms of oxytocin withdrawal are largely emotional, but physical sensations can show up too. People often describe feelings of loneliness, sadness, or emptiness after losing a close connection. Anxiety may increase, especially in social situations that once felt comforting. Sleep can be disrupted, and some people report changes in appetite or energy levels.

Emotionally, there may be a craving for reassurance or physical closeness. You might feel unusually sensitive to rejection or conflict. This happens because oxytocin helps regulate stress responses, so when it dips, cortisol and other stress hormones can feel more dominant.

In certain life stages, such as postpartum recovery or the end of a relationship, these symptoms can overlap with depression or anxiety. That overlap is why oxytocin withdrawal can be confusing. It feels real and intense, but it’s not always obvious what’s causing it.

What Causes Oxytocin Withdrawal?

One of the most common triggers is the loss of a close bond. Breakups, divorce, or even moving away from loved ones can reduce regular oxytocin release. The brain has been wired to expect comfort from that person, so their absence creates both emotional and chemical disruption.

Another cause is changes related to pregnancy and breastfeeding. During these periods, oxytocin levels are naturally high. When breastfeeding stops or postpartum hormones shift, the sudden change can leave someone feeling emotionally unmoored.

Even lifestyle changes can contribute. A decrease in physical touch, social interaction, or intimacy can gradually lower oxytocin levels. People who become isolated due to work, stress, or illness may feel this shift without realizing why their mood has changed.

How Does Oxytocin Withdrawal Affect Mental Health?

Oxytocin supports emotional resilience. It helps the brain interpret social cues more positively and reduces fear-based reactions. When it drops, people may feel more suspicious, disconnected, or emotionally raw. Small stressors can feel overwhelming, and negative thoughts may spiral more easily.

This is especially important because oxytocin interacts with other neurotransmitters, including dopamine and serotonin. When bonding hormones fall, the brain’s reward system can feel under-stimulated. That’s one reason heartbreak or postpartum mood changes can feel physically painful, not just emotionally difficult.

It’s also why self-care during these times matters so much. Supporting overall hormonal balance, sleep, and nutrition can make it easier for the brain to adjust.

Coping With Oxytocin Withdrawal

The good news is that oxytocin can be naturally boosted through everyday actions. Physical touch, exercise, and regular contact with loved ones can increase levels. Meaningful conversations and social connections also help the brain reestablish a sense of safety.

If feelings of sadness or anxiety become overwhelming or long-lasting, professional support can be crucial. Therapy can help process emotional loss while also encouraging habits that promote healthy hormone regulation.

Why Oxytocin Withdrawal Matters

Oxytocin withdrawal highlights how deeply human connection is woven into our biology. When bonds change or disappear, the body reacts just as strongly as the heart does. Recognizing this can make emotional pain feel more understandable and manageable.

By supporting social connection, practicing self-care, and being patient with the healing process, it’s possible to move through oxytocin withdrawal with greater clarity and compassion. And while daily health routines won’t change your hormones directly, they can support a sense of balance during times of transition.

Ultimately, oxytocin withdrawal reminds us that connection isn’t just emotional; it’s chemical, physical, and deeply human.

The post What Is Oxytocin Withdrawal? appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

The following list highlights playgrounds in the Cleveland/Akron area that are intentionally designed to welcome all kids, so families can spend less time searching and more time playing together. 

Carolyn Ludwig Mugrage Park
4985 Windfall Road, Medina
medinacountyparks.com
 Features double-sized ramps for wheelchair users and a poured-in-place rubber safety surface.

Cascade Park
387 Furnace St., Elyria
loraincountymetroparks.com
Features accessible ramps, pathways and play structures; inclusive slides; ground-level play activities; sensory-rich activities; and adaptive Swings.

Clague Park
1500 Clague Road, Westlake
cityofwestlake.org
Features ADA-accessible ramps, adaptive swings, paved paths, multiple musical elements, and a rubberized surface

Coe Lake Park
85 S. Rocky River Drive, Berea
cityofberea.org
Features ADA-accessible equipment and paved paths; adaptive swings and ramps; an accessible treehouse with wheelchair lift; and a partial rubberized surface.

James Day Park
11828 W. Pleasant Valley Road, Parma
cityofparma-oh.gov
Features ADA transfer stations, ramps, and wide bridges and walkways; adaptive swing seats with an optional adjustable safety harness; and a Cruiser with room for two wheelchairs and two full benches.

John F. Kennedy Park
17095 Sylvia Drive, Brook Park
cityofbrookpark.com
A fully ADA-accessible playground with ramps and inclusive surfacing that features adaptive swings with high backs and harness support; a multi-seat spinner and wheelchair-accessible merry-go-round; a monkey bar/glider track system; and more.

Karen’s Way Play Space
Huntington Reservation, 28728 Wolf Road, Bay Village
clevelandmetroparks.com
Features a nature-based design, musical play components, two separate swing sets and a zipline. The swing set and zipline feature ADA inclusive seating. There are also parent + child swings.

Lakewood Park
14532 Lake Ave., Lakewood
lakewoodoh.gov
Features ADA-accessible equipment and paths, including ramps and adaptive swings. The Solstice Steps offer paths and ramps that make the lakefront accessible. 

Liberty Playground
6363 Selig Blvd., Independence
independenceohio.org
Features wheelchair-accessible sand tables and musical panels in the toddler section; adaptive swings and fully-accessible surfacing for all abilities; and a partially-rubberized surface.

Mayfield Heights Playground
6080 Marsol Road, Mayfield Heights
mayfieldheightsohio.gov
A fully fenced-in, ADA-accessible playground designed for all abilities that features wide ramps, adaptive swings, and sensory-friendly elements such as musical play stations and interactive panels, with a rubberized surface.

Miracle League Playground
35200 Vine St., Eastlake (adjacent to Classic Park)
miracleleagueoflakecounty.org
Features a latex-free surface, ramps, zipline, musical items and a quiet “igloo” area.

Neura Park
4637 Center Road, Brunswick
brunswick.oh.us
Features inclusive swings, ziplines, a spinner, an orbit, an orb rocker and a rubberized surface. 

Parkview Playground
425 N. Commons Blvd., Mayfield Village
mayfieldvillage.com
Features multiple climbing structures, a separate toddler area with gentle slides and low platforms, wide ramps and adaptive swings, and a rubberized surface.

Playground of Possibilities
1630 Wrenford Road, South Euclid
southeuclid.gov
This castle-themed, fully-accessible playground features a variety of playhouses, a treehouse, animal spring toys, and ADA swings.

Preston’s H.O.P.E.
26001 S. Woodland Road, Beachwood
prestonshope.com
Fully-fenced with gated entry, this 60,000-square-foot, fully-accessible playground features a play village, sand area, adaptive swings, rubberized surfaces, and specialized structures designed for children with and without disabilities.

Sebastian’s Playground
6679 SOM Center Road, Stow
sebastiansplaygrounds.org
This all-inclusive playground is fully-fenced, mulch-free and features multi-sensory playground equipment such as a glider, telescope, sensory play wall, rain sound wheel, adapted swings, music features and more.

S.O.A.R. Boundless Playground
Silver Springs Park, 5027 Stow Road, Stow
stowohio.gov
Features an accessible play structure and swings, with a rubberized surface

Surrarrer Park
14625 Whitney Road, Strongsville
strongsville.org
Features a parent-child swing, ADA-accessible ramps, wheelchair-friendly Cruiser, numerous interactive play panels, and a Freedom Swing.

The post Sensory-Friendly & Inclusive Playgrounds in Northeast Ohio appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

Little updates can completely shift how a room feels without forcing you to rip everything apart. And the best part is that many of them can be finished over a single weekend with a basic tool kit and a bit of patience.

If your space has started feeling flat, cluttered, or slightly unfinished, then we’ve put together four small DIY ideas that can make your home feel far more personal and inviting without turning into a giant renovation project.

1. Swap out your hardware for a quick style upgrade

One of the easiest ways to refresh a room is by changing the details you touch every single day. Cabinet handles, drawer pulls, door knobs, and light switch covers often come in generic builder-grade finishes that make the entire room feel kind of bland. Swapping them for warmer finishes like brushed brass or matte black instantly changes the atmosphere.

A lot of homeowners now shop brass door hardware online because it adds warmth without feeling overly trendy. Brass works especially well if you’re aiming for softer, more natural interiors instead of cold, ultra-modern spaces.

It’s also one of the simplest ways to start designing a minimalist home because cleaner hardware instantly makes kitchens, bathrooms, and hallways feel more polished without adding clutter.

2. Add softer lighting to create a calmer atmosphere

Lighting has the power to completely change how your home feels at night. Harsh overhead lights can make even beautifully decorated rooms feel cold and uncomfortable, while softer layered lighting instantly creates warmth. One of the easiest weekend projects is adding battery-powered sconces, LED strip lighting, or warm-toned table lamps in darker corners.

LED strips hidden behind headboards, under cabinets, or behind floating shelves create a soft diffused glow that makes rooms feel far more relaxing in the evenings. If you’re trying to create a cozy family room, this kind of lighting makes a massive difference because it softens shadows and creates a much calmer atmosphere without requiring expensive rewiring.

3. Build a simple coffee station that feels intentional

Sometimes homes feel cluttered simply because everyday items don’t have a dedicated place. Creating a small coffee station or drink area can instantly make your kitchen feel more organized and thoughtful.

It sounds small, but creating little zones throughout your house helps the entire space feel less chaotic. These tiny routines often make homes feel more luxurious than expensive furniture ever could.

4. Refresh textures to make rooms feel warmer and more lived in

Sometimes a room doesn’t need more decor. It just needs softer layers. Adding heavier curtains, textured throws, woven baskets, linen cushion covers, or thicker rugs can completely change the energy of a room. Mixing textures helps spaces feel more relaxed and comfortable instead of overly flat or staged.

The best DIY home updates usually aren’t the most expensive or time-consuming ones. They’re the small little changes that can make your space feel more comfortable, functional, and genuinely yours.

The post Small Weekend DIY Projects That Could Transform Your Home’s Feel appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

Getting Started 

Ethan Sawyer, aka College Essay Guy, suggests parents help teens figure out what truly brings them happiness and will help them grow toward a life they desire. 

Parents can ask teens: What’s outside their comfort zone that they’d like to try? What makes them happy?

Sawyer finds that teens gravitate toward activities where they can engage and build relationships, meaning and accomplishment. 

For college-bound teens, it’s key to develop qualities that colleges value, like collaboration, intellectual curiosity, initiative, and contributing to the community. But most importantly, it’s about getting them to engage in activities that align with their interests and values. 

Get a Job

A job is an excellent way to build useful skills. Instead of opting for the typical fast food gig, teens can consider something that aligns with their talents. Here are some ideas:

Entrepreneurship: Start a service business.

Creative projects: Makers can sell their creations on platforms like Etsy.

Practical services: Offer gardening, painting or organizing services for neighbors.

Tech help: Set up their devices or teach basic tech skills to neighbors.

Retail or tutoring: Apply to a favorite retail store or tutor in subjects at which they excel.

Camp counselors: Check local camps to see who is hiring for the summer.

Internships

Summer internships offer real-world experience, helping teens develop valuable skills and pushing them to step outside their comfort zone, boosting confidence.

How to Land an Internship

Create a resume: Ensure their resume includes relevant experience and skills.

Social media: Post about their interests and achievements on platforms like Instagram, asking if anyone has internship leads.

Call local businesses: Making a phone call can be nerve-racking, but it helps you stand out. Teens can call nearby businesses, explain why they admire their work, and offer their skills for an internship opportunity.

Propose a project: Offer to improve a small business’s website or social media.

Classes, Camps and Workshops

Consider workshops or classes to explore new interests or deepen existing ones.

Robotics: For the teen interested in coding, robotics, AI and more. Learn about STEM careers. Consider looking for programs at a college campus or regional summer camps.

Library workshops: Great for creative teens. Today’s libraries offer much more than books, including makerspaces, 3D printers, recording studios, and hands-on workshops that spark creativity and skill-building.

Regional park and rec systems: These can be hidden gems, offering career exploration with life science professionals, outdoor learning experiences, and opportunities for teens to design and lead environmental service projects.

Film production: For thinkers and risk-takers. Check to see if there is a nearby media arts center or college offering camps. 

Arts programs: Develop skills in any arts genre, from writing to dance to art. Look to art centers around the region or places such as Lake Erie Ink (lakeerieink.org) for teen programming.

College-Bound Teens

For rising seniors, the best use of summer is getting a head start on the college essay process before senior year begins. Gain peace of mind, time to think deeply, and room for senior year fun.

Avoid “pay-to-play” programs. Instead, focus on authentic experiences that align with skills and interests.

Volunteer Opportunities  

Volunteering is a fantastic way to give back while gaining valuable experience. Here are ideas to match a variety of interests:

Animal Lovers

Conservation center, zoo or aquarium: Many offer volunteer roles for older teens that combine hands-on animal care and conservation efforts with opportunities to develop people skills. 

Live near water? Try beach cleanups, water quality testing, and climate action initiatives. 

Humane society or animal rescue: Organize a pet supply drive in the community to gather donations. Or, donate time by walking or playing with animals. 

Creatives

Assist with community theater: Design sets, costumes, lighting, playbills or social media ads.

Create short videos: Explain a nonprofit’s mission or promote an event. This is a great way to develop communication skills, too.

Artists: Ask schools, businesses, etc. to help beautify your community. 

Future Doctors, Nurses

Red Cross: The Red Cross urgently needs blood donations. Teens can help by becoming a Blood Donor Ambassador. Create awareness, register donors and help organize drives. 

Community Emergency Response Team (CERT): Join teams nationwide to help with disaster preparedness. Training equips people with skills to assist in major disasters such as fire preparedness, and search and rescue emergencies.

Helpers

Check out food banks, local nonprofit opportunities: Volunteer for food distribution or other community events that give back.

Senior care facilities: Offer to play an instrument, assist with social events or simply visit.

Create Your Own Adventure

For teens who like to work at their own pace on something they love, there are many ways to develop leadership and skills.

Whatever your teen chooses, just encourage them to get out there, gain new skills and make a lasting impact.

The post Unlock Summer Opportunities for Teens to Grow, Explore and Give Back appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

The post Reader Giveaway: Abby Dosen’s book ‘Realistic Self Care for Moms’ & The Empowered Mom Event appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

Build a Cash Flow Plan Before You Chase Funding

Growth starts with clarity, not capital. A simple 6 to 12 month cash flow forecast helps you see when money gets tight and when you can safely invest in expansion.

Before applying for a loan, map out fixed costs, variable costs, and realistic revenue targets. A clear plan makes lenders more confident and helps you borrow only what you actually need.

Explore Flexible Financing Options 

Traditional bank loans are often a great option. But they are not the only path forward, especially when you need funding that moves quickly and adapts to unpredictable schedules.

If a traditional bank is not the right fit, business owners can look to online lenders, private financing companies, or specialized commercial finance firms that focus exclusively on small businesses. 

These providers often streamline applications and shorten approval timelines compared to large banks. 

Government-backed loans are another alternative worth considering. The SBA 2024 Capital Impact Report shows the agency supported more than 100,000 financings in 2024, highlighting how widely their programs are used. 

Each option comes with different requirements and timelines. So, matching the lender type to your urgency and documentation readiness is key.

When cash flow gaps or expansion opportunities cannot wait, many small business owners look for fast approval funding to cover equipment purchases, payroll, inventory, or working capital without long approval delays

Strengthen Your Business Credit and Documentation

Many entrepreneurs still rely on personal savings or credit cards to launch and sustain operations. Findings from NORC at the University of Chicago in 2024 show that personal assets and credit cards dominated startup funding, with limited access to institutional capital.

Leaning too heavily on personal credit can blur the line between family risk and business risk. Building a separate business credit profile helps protect your household and improves approval odds.

Invest in Smart Growth Instead of Fast Growth

Scaling while raising kids demands balance. Growth should increase stability, not chaos.

Economic growth alone does not guarantee easier access to capital for small businesses. Higher borrowing costs and cautious lending standards mean many entrepreneurs face stricter approval requirements and closer scrutiny of their financials. 

In this environment, expansion should be based on proven demand, stable margins, and measurable returns rather than assumptions about readily available funding.

Focus on improvements that increase profit per customer rather than just chasing new leads. Consider:

• Raising prices strategically to protect margins
• Automating repetitive admin tasks
• Expanding into adjacent services for existing clients

Turning Funding Into Long-Term Stability 

Parent entrepreneurs must approach funding with clear cash flow planning, careful lender selection, and disciplined growth decisions. Every financing choice should support sustainable expansion while protecting household financial stability. 

Has this article been helpful? If so, take a look at our other relevant content!

The post How Parent Entrepreneurs Can Fund and Grow Small Businesses in Today’s Economy appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

The post ‘The Empowered Mom’ Event on Thursday, May 7 appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

May 8

Mother’s Day ‘Drop Off Date Night’ Workshop. Drop the kids off and enjoy a night out! Kids will create two handmade gifts, get glammed up, and enjoy pizza with friends. 5-7 p.m. Cuts N Curls, 6025 Kruse Drive, Solon, cutsncurls.net

May 9

A Garden Gift for Mom. Children ages 8-12 will learn the art of “random weave” basketry. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Canton Museum of Art, 1001 Market Ave. N., Canton, cantonart.org

Mother’s Day Photo Frames. Children will design creative picture frames for Mother’s Day. 3:30-4:30 p.m. Cleveland Main Library, 325 Superior Ave., cpl.org

May 9-10

Mother’s Day Weekend at the Greater Cleveland Aquarium. Enjoy parenting-themed activities, an early opening and 50% off admission for moms, stepmoms, foster moms and grandmas. 2000 Sycamore St., Cleveland, greaterclevelandaquarium.com

May 10

Have a Catch with Mom. Have a catch with mom in Cleveland’s Historic League Park. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. The Baseball Heritage Museum, 6601 Lexington Ave., Cleveland, baseballheritagemuseum.org

Bring Mom to the Farm. Meet animals and their babies, and make precious memories. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Party at the Barn, 945 Bartlett Road, Aurora, partyatthebarn.farm

Mother’s Day at Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens. Mothers and an accompanying family member can enjoy complimentary self-guided tours. 714 N. Portage Path, Akron, stanhywet.org

Mother’s Day Brunch at Cleveland Botanical Garden. Enjoy a delicious meal surrounded by the beauty of the Cleveland Botanical Garden. 9 a.m. & 11:30 a.m. 11030 East Blvd., holdenfg.org

Mother’s Day Brunch at StoneWater. Special brunch featuring a menu curated by Executive Chef Kathryn Neidus, which includes an adult station, carving station, kids station, dessert station, and special mom’s sundae social bar. 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. The Rustic Grill at StoneWater, 1 Club Drive, Highland Heights, stonewatergolf.com 

Free Admission to the Akron Zoo. Free admission for all moms and grandmas. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 505 Euclid Ave., akronzoo.org

Free Admission to the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. Mothers receive free zoo admission. Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, 3900 Wildlife Way, clevelandmetroparks.com/zoo

Mother’s Day Brunch Cruise. Start a new holiday tradition aboard Lady Caroline. 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. 1153 Main Ave., Cleveland, ladycaroline.com 

Painting with a Twist. Enjoy a family-friendly painting session. 12-2 p.m. 2955 W. Market St., Fairlawn, paintingwithatwist.com

Mothers Day Explosion. Celebrate mom with fun, music and good vibes starring Emonae & Von James. 2-5 p.m. Sam Sylks, Libby Road, Maple Heights, ssylks.com

May 15

Mother & Son Dance. Music, games, snacks, DJ and more. 7-9 p.m. Wildwood Cultural Center, 7645 Little Mountain Road, Mentor, cityofmentor.com

The post Mother’s Day Events in Northeast Ohio appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

Explore a New Interest

Summer offers a low-pressure window for kids to try something new without the long-term commitment of a full school-year activity.

For example, Fairmont Center for the Arts offers summer classes and camps for “dabblers” as well as those who are looking to go “in-depth,” according to Executive Director Elizabeth Bolander.

“I love summer art classes and art camps, because they are usually shorter sessions,” she says. “If your student is exploring a new medium or is curious about something, but doesn’t want to commit to a whole school year or a semester of classes, summer is a great time to do it because it is only a couple of weeks. It’s a fun, relaxed environment and it’s welcoming for beginners.”

Bethany Beshire, senior manager of center operations at Cleveland Metroparks, says there are so many options for parents and caregivers to explore. 

“You can look between single-day or multi-day experiences and offer varying half- and full-day options,” Beshire says, “There are activities like archery, golf, paddle sports, focused nature and music camps, zoo camps, and rugged camps that include lots of active exploring. We try to offer camps that are inclusive and appeal to kids of all interests and abilities.”

She adds that parents can check out each camp online to get an idea of activities that will be offered and gauge if they will be a good fit for your child. 

Victoria Joslin, camp and curriculum manager at Great Lakes Science Center, says parents should look at all the options that are available and consider everything that is included. 

“It’s great when you find something your camper is already interested in and you find a camp that aligns with that, but summer camp is also such a fantastic opportunity to find new interests,” she says. “If you end up not liking it, it’s only a week of your time. However, if you end up loving it, you might get a whole new point of interest.”

Participate in Summer Reading 

When combating the “summer slide,” families across Northeast Ohio can incorporate library programs.

“Almost all libraries across the country do a summer reading program to prevent the summer slide, when kids lose the momentum that they have gained throughout the school year, especially when it comes to literacy,” says Bob Harrison, marketing and communications director at Elyria Public Library. “It’s so important to maintain that momentum, especially for younger kids. Reading at or above grade level is critical in their success at school and later in life.”

Joan Spoerl, director of the Imagination Library at The Literacy Cooperative, the program partner for Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library in Cuyahoga County, says, “We know that the number of books in the home is more important than the parents’ education level or family income for predicting a child’s success in school, because with having those books around, children are more likely to go towards them when they are bored. We know that screens are not optimal at building young children’s brains.”

Kids should be actively engaged in reading during the summer, even if only for a few minutes each day, according to Lisa Sherlock, ancillary services coordinator at Wickliffe Public Library.

“Summer reading programs get kids excited about reading, which sometimes is hard for some kids,” Sherlock says. “Parents have said they see a difference in children when they return to school. They are eager to read new and different things.”

“When children spend their summer reading, a lot of things happen,” says Eileen Meehan, a retired longtime primary educator and a volunteer at the Imagination Library at The Literacy Cooperative. “One is they learn to see reading as not only educational, but a recreational source of pursuit, which is wonderful for lifelong learning.” 

Meehan adds there are a lot of summer learning activities kids can do at home, too, such as reading, writing and implementing practical life skills, like making a shopping list or cooking a basic meal.

Additional Resources for Families:

The Connecting for Kids Inclusive Summer Directory lists camps and programs for children with disabilities, mental health needs, or those experiencing life changes at connectingforkids.org/summer. Programs run June through August. Parents can use the directory’s map/zip code search to find nearby options.

The Ohio Department of Education and Workforce (education.ohio.gov) recommends contacting a child’s school or local school district to find out about area tutoring programs. 

The Ohio Statewide Family Engagement Center (ohiofamiliesengage.osu.edu) offers free tools and other family-friendly resources. Online, families can take advantage of the Digital Citizenship Curriculum, which offers interactive lessons and activities for all students. 

The Boys and Girls Club (bgcneo.org) offers programming and academic support to enhance and accelerate classroom learning. Contact a local Boys and Girls Club location in Northeast Ohio to inquire about tutoring opportunities.

Summer Learning Action Steps for Families: 

1. Set up a daily time to focus on learning, from 30-60 minutes, with a variety of activities. 
2. Enroll in a local library’s summer reading program. Kids read diverse books, participate in a guided program and receive prizes. 
3. Tutoring is also a beneficial choice for some children. Parents can start by reaching out to a child’s teachers.
4. Explore area summer camps that focus on nature exploration or STEAM-focused initiatives.
5. Take advantage of free internet curriculum, apps and other resources that reinforce learning.
6. Make learning a part of daily life by cooking, working on creative projects and finding new outdoor activities like hiking. 

The post Plan Your Child’s Summer Learning to Prevent the ‘Summer Slide’ appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

Suddenly, you’re googling in the middle of the night, still none the wiser, just more confused with random form names, numbers, and acronyms spinning around in your head. It’s not helpful in the slightest. So you think you’ll speak to a local accountant or the one your family uses back home.

The thing is, when you find yourself in this situation, you need experts who are proficient in dealing with expat taxes and know exactly what you need to do to file your return correctly and avoid any mistakes or penalties that come from not understanding your obligations regarding taxes, regardless of where you are in the world.

This is where Universal Tax Professionals come into the picture. This is exactly what they were built for.

Who are Universal Tax Professionals?

Universal Tax Professionals is a US expat tax firm based in Chagrin Falls, Ohio. They’ve been doing one thing and one thing alone: helping expats file their taxes correctly on time. There’s no street, no jargon, no guesswork, just professionals who know exactly what needs to be done and can help you make sure you do too.

The firm is staffed with experienced American accountants, CPAs, and Enrolled agents. They are all special in the specific idling requirements that come with living aboard.

This firm operates in more than 100 countries, and they handle everything from straightforward annual returns to complex situations involving foreign corporations, overseas investments, and years of missed filings.

Such is the scope of their expertise that they’ve been featured in publications such as Yahoo Finance, MSN Money, Go BankingRates, Expert Expat, and Newsbreak. They are also authorized by the IRS for e-filing.

But what makes them different from other expat tax firms?

Everything here is done in-house. Nothing is outsourced. They won’t hand your paperwork or other details to any other parties or automated software. Every signal return is prepared by a real licensed member of their own team. And you know exactly who that person is as the firm matches each client with a dedicated accountant based on their specific situation.

A Service Model Built for Real People

The process is straightforward by design; you make the contact first. The Universal Tax Professionals send their price list and a client questionnaire upfront. This removes any shock bills or fees you aren’t expecting. Then you upload your documents to a secure file-sharing portal.

From here, your matched accountant takes over, preparing your return over a two to three week window. Crucially, you review a full draft to receive before you pay anything. This is paramount as it means you know exactly what is going to be filed on your behalf, so you can make any changes if there’s been a mistake made by either party. Once you’re happy with everything, you make the payment, and the return is e-filed or sent for mailing.

Sounds too simple? That’s because it is. You’re paying for a service to make life easier, and that’s exactly what happens here. Flat rate pricing, a transparent price list, a real accountant who knows your name and situation, and a pay after review model that puts the burden of quality firmly on the firm, not you as the client.

The Full Picture

Beyond the standard annual return, Universal Tax Professionals covers the full range of situations that come with an international life: FBAR filing for foreign bank accounts, FATCA reporting, corporate taxes for Americans with overseas business interests, non-resident tax reporting, self-employed returns, state tax returns, amended returns, and tax resolution. For those who haven’t filed in years, the firm handles IRS Streamlined Filing Compliance Procedures. This is the amnesty program that allows expats to get back on track without the standard penalty exposure. They also offer a Global Mobility Tax service and maintain partnerships with foreign tax firms and legal advisors for situations that cross into other jurisdictions.

Why Customers Love Universal Tax Professionals

It’s simple, really. They love consistency. They know what they’re getting. Reviews mention this time and time again. They name team members directly, and reviews point to details that prove their cases were handled properly. — stimulus payments they didn’t know they could claim, or errors on previous returns being caught and corrected.

It’s the attention to detail that sets them apart and brings customers back time and again. In fact, around 30% of their clients were referred by existing clients who had a good experience. And this matters so much more than anything else in relation to customer satisfaction.

What Else Do You Need to Know?

To be fair, nothing is perfect. Not all of the time, and there are some caveats to this type of service that might mean it’s not quite right for you.

The service is entirely virtual, meaning there’s no physical office for you to frequent. This can be a deal breaker for some, but as most clients are expats, it’s not usually an issue. 

The 2-3 week preparation window might be too long for late filers, resulting in it being submitted too late. And the firm exclusively advises Americans living abroad, so if your situation involves non-US citizens with US obligations in a more complex structure, then it’s worth confirming the scope before you commit to this service.

There’s no real deal breakers here, sure, there are some limitations to the services, this is the case with everything, and it’s not a one-size-fits-all operation.

But Universal Tax Professionals operate in a very niche space. If you find yourself circling this exact situation, then they could be the resolution you need to make your life much easier come tax time.

The post Universal Tax Professionals Review 2026: The Ohio-Based Expat Tax Firm Proving That a Real Person Still Makes All the Difference appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

1. Home for a While 

By Lauren H. Kerstein and illustrated by Natalia Moore  

This picture book follows Calvin, a young boy in foster care who wants to trust but feels unsure how. Having lived in many different houses, Calvin carries his worries with him as he moves once again, this time into Maggie’s home. Through patience, respect and everyday kindness, Maggie helps Calvin begin to see himself in a new way and imagine the possibility of connection.

2. One Day at a Time: A Story About Big Feelings, Foster Care, and Finding Hope 

By Maria Roy 

Meet Lily, a young girl learning to navigate the changing seasons of life and the swirl of emotions that come with foster care. With her loyal friend, a yellow bird named Sparrow, by her side, she learns simple calming strategies that help her feel grounded, brave and cared for.

3. 
   

   Pup and Bear 

By Katie Banks

This read-aloud is about a lost wolf pup who is raised by a loving polar bear resonates with families — particularly non-traditional ones. “You are not my mother,” said the wolf pup. “I am not your mother,” said the polar bear, “but I can cuddle you and keep you safe.” The picture book celebrates differences and promotes kindness.

4. What I Carry

By Jennifer Longo 

Muiriel (Muir) is a teen in the foster care system who learns to pack light and avoid emotional attachments. But as she nears aging out at 18, she finds her world changing when she moves to a new foster home on an island near Seattle, where she forms unexpected connections and discovers the meaning of home and chosen family.

5. Wish

By Barbara O’Connor 

Eleven-year-old Charlie Reese is sent to live with her aunt and uncle in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina after her parents’ instability. The story follows her journey as she navigates a new life.

6. You Weren’t with Me 

By Chandra Ippen and illustrated by Erich Ippen 

Little Rabbit and Big Rabbit are together again after a difficult separation, but Little Rabbit is not ready to cuddle up and receive Big Rabbit’s love. Little Rabbit needs Big Rabbit to understand what it felt like when they were apart. Through this heartfelt story, parents and children are guided to talk about difficult separations, reconnect, and find their way back to each other.

7. 
   

   Kids Need to Be Safe: A Book for Children in Foster Care

By Julie Nelson and illustrated by Mary Gallagher 

Kids are important; they need safe places to live and safe places to play. For some kids, this means living with foster parents. In simple words and full-color illustrations, this book explains why some kids move to foster homes, what foster parents do, and ways kids might feel during foster care. 

The post Fostering Understanding: 7 Books to Help Foster Care Families  appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

Dosen’s book, “Realistic Self Care for Moms: A Guided Journal for Taking Care of You While Taking Care of Them,” grew out of a deeply personal realization: that the version of self-care many moms chase isn’t the one that actually sustains them.

“When you take care of yourself regularly, you don’t necessarily feel like you’re crawling to those huge forms of what everyone thinks of as self-care, the spa day or the girls trip or night out,” explains the mom of three. “Real self-care is what’s happening on a day-to-day basis; this is realistic self-care.”

The idea that self-care should shift from an occasional indulgence to consistent, daily support is at the heart of her message. Dosen emphasizes that small, everyday choices — what you eat, how you move, how you manage stress — build over time. Ignoring them, she says, can lead to burnout, resentment and bitterness.

Her motivation to write the book started long before motherhood, when she questioned the common narrative that moms must lose themselves entirely. But it became urgent during the early years of raising her daughters Zoey, Mia and Emma, who are now ages
6, 4 and 3, respectively. 

“I felt like I was in survival mode,” she says of the summer after Emma was born. “I was at a place where the kids would be kids, and
I felt like I was ready to snap at all times.”

Determined to change, Dosen began identifying her own needs — basic, emotional, social, etc. — and noticed how meeting them affected her patience and presence. “I started just making a list of my needs,” she recalls. “And I thought, wow, this could really help other moms.”

That realization shaped both the message and format of “Motherhood Reimagined.” Rather than a traditional advice book, it’s designed to be interactive and highly personalized. 

“I really wanted to guide people on the journaling process to get them to have the opportunity to actually think about these things in terms of their own life,” Dosen says. “I wanted moms to be able to interact with everything they read as they read it.”

Each chapter covers the self-care topic, then ends with a reflection practice that allows the reader to think about how that topic shows up in their life. From there, readers move into a visualization phase in which they examine what they want that self-care to look like. The final step is the growth practice, in which Dosen gives moms an actual plan and a challenge.

“That is the most important part and is what sets my book apart from other parenting books because it is holding you a little accountable for it,” she explains. “I think that’s where actual, sustainable change
can happen.”

In addition to her book, Dosen also hosts Empowered Mom workshops for public events or private groups, in both virtual and in-person formats. 

“We get to know each other, connect and share personal stories, but really the goal is to kickstart this whole process and get participants comfortable with thinking about self-care in a way that removes the stigma of it being selfish,” she says. “A lot of times, moms think that time for themselves is a disservice to their kids, and I could not disagree more. When you care for yourself, you are more regulated and you have more energy. All of these positive side effects are actually going to help your children or your partner or your spouse in so many ways.”

Through her book and her work with other moms, Dosen’s goal is simple but powerful: to help women move beyond survival mode, reconnect with themselves, and show up more fully for the life they’re already living.

For more information about Dosen’s book, Empowered Mom events and more, visit adosenbooks.com.

The post Local Mom’s Book Guides Mothers to Realistic Self-Care appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

But the conversation usually focuses only on salary or job titles. What gets overlooked are the long-term advantages that can change your career over time. The benefits often show up later through adaptability, networking, confidence, and opportunities that aren’t always obvious when you first graduate.

Degrees still matter more than people like to admit

Even with companies talking more about skills-based hiring, degrees still carry weight in a surprising number of industries. A qualification often acts as the first filter before employers even look deeper into applications.

That doesn’t necessarily mean someone without a degree can’t succeed. Plenty of people do. But degrees still create a kind of professional shorthand. Employers often associate them with reliability, discipline, and the ability to commit to long-term goals.

This becomes even more useful during economic uncertainty. Industries change quickly, companies restructure, and layoffs happen. Having qualifications can sometimes create a safety net that makes finding the next opportunity slightly easier when things feel unstable.

The networking advantage nobody talks about enough

People usually focus on coursework when discussing university, but the network built around education can end up being just as valuable as the qualification itself.

Alumni groups, internships, professors, classmates, and industry contacts all become part of your long-term professional ecosystem. Someone who shares a university background is often far more likely to answer your message or recommend you for a role.

For students choosing flexible options like an MBA non-thesis online program, this network still matters even in digital learning environments. A lot of online programs now create strong professional communities that continue helping graduates years after finishing their studies.

A degree can make career changes less stressful

One thing people rarely mention is how qualifications can support a more flexible career path later in life. Experience alone sometimes becomes very narrow. If you spend years working with one system, one platform, or one process, adapting to industry changes can feel difficult when technology moves on quickly.

A degree often povides broader theory and foundational thinking that helps people pivot into different industries more smoothly. Instead of only knowing how one tool works, you understand the principles underneath it. That becomes useful when entire industries evolve or new opportunities suddenly appear.

Human skills are becoming more valuable again

Ironically, as AI becomes more common in workplaces, human skills are starting to stand out more. Critical thinking, communication, ethical judgment, collaboration, and problem-solving are becoming harder to replace. University environments tend to build those skills naturally through projects, presentations, deadlines, and group work.

Even the frustrating parts of higher education can help long-term. Managing pressure, handling criticism, working with difficult personalities, and juggling competing priorities all mirror real workplace situations surprisingly well. That preparation becomes more obvious later in management roles where technical knowledge alone isn’t enough anymore.

The post The Lesser-Known Advantages of Having a Degree in Today’s Job Market appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

Looking after yourself is not something that should be considered selfish; it is something that helps you stay physically and emotionally present for the people who rely on you every single day.

Good health habits do not need to be complicated or time-consuming. Small routines and practical changes often make the biggest difference over time.

Small Health Issues Can Become Bigger Problems

How many parents are dealing with minor health concerns because they are focused on keeping family life moving? A small issue can easily turn into something more difficult when it is ignored for too long.

Hearing is one area that most people overlook. Changes in hearing could happen gradually, making them easy to dismiss at first, but if you are struggling to hear conversations clearly, it can become exhausting, especially in busy family environments filled with noise and distractions.

Winter can also create extra challenges for people who rely on hearing aids. Moisture and indoor heating can all affect how devices perform. Learning more about keeping hearing aids working in winter can help people avoid unnecessary problems during the colder months.

Taking small steps early is something that’s going to prevent bigger issues later on. This applies to all areas such as hearing, sleep, stress, and many other aspects of health.

Parents Need Rest Too

Many parents become used to functioning while tired. Late nights, interrupted sleep, and busy schedules can make exhaustion feel like a normal part of your life. Over time, though, constant stress and fatigue begin to affect both physical and mental well-being.

Rest does not always mean taking long breaks or expensive holidays. Sometimes it’s just creating a few small moments during the day to slow down and reset. A short walk, eating properly, limiting screen time before bed, or simply sitting quietly for 10 minutes can help more than you might actually realize.

That is why many people now focus on realistic self-care rather than setting impossible standards.

Healthy Parents Support Healthy Families

Children often learn health habits by watching the adults who are around them. When parents prioritize their sleep, healthy meals, movement, and stress management, children are going to notice those behaviors.

There’s no need for you to be perfect to have a nice, healthy home environment. What matters is that you are showing them that your health deserves attention and care. Even small routines can help to improve family well-being.

Conclusion

Parenting places heavy demands on both physical and mental health. While caring for children naturally comes with a lot of time, you also need to make sure they are getting the right support, rest, and attention for their own well-being.

The post Why Parents Need to Prioritize Their Own Health Too appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

Linda Valenti
Streetsboro City Schools
4th Grade and Special Education

“I am in my 30th year.of teaching and still love being in the classroom. It’s where I’ve laughed, learned and grown right alongside my students. I love teaching because of the relationships I have built and for the privilege of being even a small part of each student’s story.”

Raeann Campayne
Garden Christian Academy
Kindergarten 

“I see teaching as a calling and a gift, that’s why I love it. Every school day, I have the beautiful opportunity to see a love for learning grow in the hearts of students. Teaching matters to me because I know the children I pour into every day will one day become adults that have a foundation of more than just knowledge. Especially working at GCA, a school that offers classical, Christian education, I am able to set the table for children to learn not only about knowledge, but also what is virtuous, good, true and beautiful.”

Dr. Jason Valley
Heritage Classical Academy
7th and 8th Grades

Jason Valley has spent the past six years serving as an Upper School teacher, teaching seventh grade humanities and eighth grade composition/capstone. He describes his time at HCA as one of God’s greatest gifts, cherishing the daily opportunity to share with students about the King, His Kingdom, and His immeasurable love. Valley finds the greatest joy in building meaningful relationships with both students and colleagues, whether through deep conversations or moments of shared laughter. His passion for connection and faith-filled teaching continues to leave a lasting impact on the HCA community.

Kris Sutton

Brecksville-Broadview Heights City Schools
Fifth Grade

“I love teaching because it is a way to invest in the future by working with students. The kids are amazing, and they inspire me to learn new ideas and be my best in order to get the best out of them. We work hard together, and we practice living with integrity and building one another up. I love when, as a class, we go from a group of people to an integrated community of learners. The rewards in teaching are immeasurable and more than I ever could have hoped for in my career.” 

Bryan McKenzie

Kent City Schools
Elementary Teaching Librarian, K-5 at Davey and Walls Elementary Schools

“This year marks my 30th year in education, and the thing I love the most about teaching is seeing my students excited about learning and their reactions to great stories. As a special area teacher at two buildings, it makes my day when the kids see me in the morning and ask if it’s their library day.”

Dr. Neena Goel
Gilmour Academy
Upper School Science Instructor and Director of the Catalyst Program

Dr. Neena Goel, a member of the Gilmour community for nearly 20 years, inspires students through her engaging and rigorous instruction as a human anatomy, physiology and biology teacher, while also serving as director of Gilmour’s esteemed Catalyst program. Through immersive, research-based learning, she helps students build critical thinking, confidence and real-world skills that extend far beyond the classroom.

“Teaching allows me to spark curiosity and help students discover their potential,” she says. “Watching them grow into better versions of themselves and gain confidence is the most meaningful part of what I do.”

The post Celebrating Teachers Who Shape the Community appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

Experts agree that as AI use grows, parents must understand its impact on mental health, educate children on appropriate use, and remain vigilant in their monitoring.

Impact on Resilience and Social-Emotional Development

While AI can be an incredible tool for finding recipes or doing research, there are concerns regarding its impact on children developing resiliency. 

Elizabeth Joyce, a parent and administrator at Heritage Classical Academy, warns that AI can tempt students to skip the vital discipline of hard work by bypassing the healthy struggle of learning. She says that children can treat AI as an “all-knowing genie.” Instead of taking the time to think through a question, students may simply think, “I’ll just check AI.”

This convenience comes at a cost to what Daniel Bond, parent and vice principal at Heritage Classical Academy, calls “sturdiness.” He argues that children need to learn how to labor for an achievement to build true mental resilience.

Bond believes AI tools may fight against this sturdiness by providing instant gratification, rather than allowing the students to enjoy the fruits of their labor after working to solve a problem.

Dr. Felipe Amunategui, a child and adolescent psychologist at University Hospitals UH Rainbow Babies & Children’s echoes this concern, noting that AI can become a companion that stunts emotional growth. In the real world, children learn by negotiating with “difficult people” on the playground. However, AI can create what he calls an “unusually friendly environment” where children aren’t exposed to difficult growth opportunities after experiencing the name-calling or unkindness found in real life. 

Amunategui points out that AI can be a beneficial tool for a child who is shy or withdrawn to practice social skills in a safe, controlled setting. He emphasizes that while there are benefits, there is a potential for “derailing things” if we are not thoughtful about accessibility.
He warns that if children choose the “safer” interaction of a machine, it can “absolutely hinder social development” in a way we don’t yet understand.

Prioritizing Human Connection

There has been a rise of AI companionship, where chatbots are designed to act as friends, which is dangerous for children. In addition to the social isolation piece and the unusually friendly, agreeable programming, there have been cases where AI bots have encouraged a person to engage in harmful behavior. Children seeking connection and friendship can be vulnerable to these risks.

“We were made for community and connection with one another,” Bond says. “We have a deep human longing to be known and loved.” 

However, if that longing is being diverted from human relationships into technology, then that can, according to Bond, “de-incentivize children to invest in real relationships with people.” There are numerous downsides to this.

In a world of technology, the most powerful tool a parent has is being present. Bond concludes that prioritizing family dinners and regular engagement helps children understand what a healthy relationship looks like. Strong, healthy families act as a protective force for children. This is built through purposeful daily conversations and meaningful connections upon which parents place a high priority.

Impact on Bullying and Health

Amunategui warns that AI has “provided a whole new weaponry to people that have tendencies to be cruel.” Bullying through “deepfakes” allows real people to be falsely depicted engaging in horrible behaviors, causing devastating harm to the victim and creating criminal culpability for the creator. Because the internet makes it difficult to erase information, this can have a significant impact on a child’s mental health and future.

Self-image is also at risk. Joyce notes that AI-driven filters on platforms like Snapchat distort appearance, often making children “dissatisfied with how they were created” as they compare their actual selves to “improved” versions of themselves.

Furthermore, Amunategui adds that algorithms prioritize engagement, often feeding children content that exacerbates existing mental health conditions like eating disorders, substance use or depression. Because these tools are designed to be attractive and entertaining, he maintains that “expecting a child to self-regulate is not reasonable.”

Red Flags: Identifying Problematic Dependency

Amunategui shares that he works with families of kids who have access to technology that makes that child “absolutely dysregulated, and has created visible harm.” 

Although the research is still being conducted to identify how AI is impacting children, it’s still important for parents to be aware of the signs that a child’s relationship with technology and AI has become problematic. 

Amunategui says these signs are similar to substance addiction:

• There’s not a lot of interest in other activities. 
• Motivation is centered entirely on getting tasks out of the way to access the device. 
• Neglected responsibilities and strained relationships.
• Mood gets bad-tempered, unfriendly or irritated day in and day out unless they are on the device. “They’re not happy with the device, they’re just not miserable,” he adds.

Bond and Joyce both emphasize that isolation is a primary red flag. Bond observes that when kids pull away, become reclusive and cut off friendships, many times that is linked to their increased use of technology, social media or AI. 

“When kids are actively isolating themselves, I think that is a tell that we should be on the lookout for in our classrooms and in our own homes,” Bond says. 

Joyce adds that, “Truth has no problem with being in the light.” Therefore, when a child starts going behind closed doors to use technology, it is also a cause for concern.

Teaching Healthy Usage

“Prohibition is never the answer,” Amunategui says. “You have to figure out how to integrate it and bring it to our kids in a way that’s not harmful.” 

He suggests a “driving privilege” framework, where technology is treated like a license that can be granted based on responsibility, but suspended for misuse.

Joyce recommends that parents model intentional, appropriate usage. If parents want their children to stay off phones during mealtime, they must also model that behavior and not check their own phones. She cautions against demonizing technology, as that turns it into what she calls a “forbidden treasure.” Instead, she focuses on having open conversations about intentional and appropriate use of technology and AI, because there can be great elements to it.

Bond encourages parents to train and equip children to prevent secret usage. He suggests delaying the introduction of these technologies for little kids, because there is no value to it, especially considering the dangers that exist. As children grow into adolescence, he recommends walking with them to help them understand how to use this tool in a healthy way.

For parents looking to learn more, Bond recommended the following resources:

• “The Anxious Generation” by Jonathan Haidt. This book tracks the rise of technology and its correlation with anxiety and other mental health concerns in children.
• “The Wolf in Their Pockets” by Chris Martin. This book discusses healthy boundaries and how to navigate the threats of the social internet.

Note: If parents are looking for phones that are more appropriate for children and have AI limits, they can try the Gabb or Bark phone.

The post How AI Can Impact Children’s Mental Health appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

The new species include:

White-faced saki: These monkeys are native to northern South America and weigh four to five pounds. The zoo is welcoming male Toumi, female Clementine and their female one-year-old, Ripley. 

Sun conures: These parrots, named Vega and Archimedes, are colorful and vocal. They are native to the rainforest of northern Brazil and surrounding areas and are classified as endangered.    

Green aracari: Aracaris are native to the rainforest in South America and are colorful birds with a long, serrated bill. The Akron Zoo is now home to two females.  

Species that previously called the Akron Zoo home and will be returning:

Axolotl: The zoo is welcoming two axolotls, male Neo and female Xochi (zo-chee). This salamander species is only found in two lakes in Mexico, Lake Xochimilco and Lake Chalco. They are classified as critically endangered. 

Cotton-top tamarins: This monkey species is recognizable for their white-colored crest of hair and small size, weighing around one pound. Cotton-topped tamarins are listed as critically endangered and are native to tropical forests of Columbia. Two brothers now call the Akron Zoo home, Chestnut and Clark.

Golden lion tamarins: Another small monkey species, golden lion tamarins weigh one and a half pounds. The fur surrounding their face is long, giving them the appearance of a lion mane. Golden lion tamarins are native to the rainforest in Brazil and are listed as endangered. The Akron Zoo is home to two siblings, male Mico and female Coco.
These species will reside in the Tom and Shelley Koutnik Primate Passage, which previously was home to the zoo’s three lemur species.

The Akron Zoo previously announced additional new species in Legends of the Wild: mountain lion cubs, prehensile-tailed porcupine, green-crested basilisk and chinchillas.

The zoo also welcomed a new antelope species this spring in the Landon & Cynthia Knight Pride of Africa mixed species habitat, yellow-backed duikers. 

The Akron Zoo is open 361 days a year. Peak season hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission rates are $11 – $21. Children under two are free and parking is free. For more information visit akronzoo.org or call 330- 375-2550.  

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Visit akronzoo.org for more details

The post Akron Zoo Introduces Multiple New Species appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

This FREE, open-to-all event is designed especially for families with children ages 3–13 and offers a chance to explore, play, and connect.

• Scavenger hunt through the beautiful Camp Y-Noah grounds
• Canoeing adventures on the water
• Archery and high ropes challenges for all skill levels
• Horse demonstration and petting zoo experience
• Make-n-take healthy snacks the whole family can enjoy
• Family fitness activities, including a high-energy BEATS class
• Plus games, activities, and surprises around every corner
• And, a fire circle with S’mores!

The post Akron Area YMCA Healthy Kids Day 2026 appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

If you’re an ADN-prepared nurse wondering whether a BSN is worth the investment, or a prospective student trying to decide where to start, the career outcome data is worth understanding clearly. The differences are real, but so is the path to closing the gap.

The Hiring Landscape Has Shifted Toward the BSN

A decade ago, most hospitals hired associate-degree nurses without hesitation. The credentials were equivalent for licensure purposes — both ADN and BSN graduates sit for the same NCLEX exam — and the nursing shortage created demand that outpaced educational preferences. That’s changed, particularly in acute care and hospital settings.

The American Association of Colleges of Nursing reports that a significant and growing percentage of hospitals and healthcare systems now prefer or require BSN preparation for entry-level nursing positions. In competitive urban markets, this preference has hardened into a baseline expectation. Nurses without a bachelor’s degree increasingly find themselves screened out of positions that were open to them five years ago — not because their clinical skills are lacking, but because the credential has become a hiring filter.

Magnet-designated hospitals — recognized for nursing excellence and consistently strong patient outcomes — are among the most explicit about this preference. Many have set institutional targets for BSN-prepared nurses on their clinical staff, which affects both hiring and, in some cases, advancement eligibility for existing employees.

What the Research Says About Patient Outcomes

The hiring trend would matter less if it were purely credentialist. But the research connecting nurse education level to patient outcomes is substantial enough that it’s moved beyond academic debate.

A landmark study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that a 10-percentage-point increase in the proportion of BSN nurses on a hospital unit was associated with a meaningful reduction in patient mortality. Subsequent research has replicated similar patterns — connecting bachelor-level nursing education to lower rates of failure-to-rescue events, medication errors, and hospital-acquired complications.

The mechanism isn’t mysterious. BSN programs extend the clinical curriculum to include more public health content, leadership development, evidence-based practice training, and systems thinking. These competencies affect how nurses catch deterioration early, communicate across care teams, and navigate complex discharge planning — all of which have direct implications for patient safety. The degree isn’t just a credential signal; it represents a substantively different educational preparation.

Career Mobility and Advancement Look Different at Each Level

Beyond initial hiring, the differences in career trajectory between ADN and BSN nurses become more pronounced over time. Graduate-level nursing programs — nurse practitioner tracks, clinical nurse specialist preparation, nursing leadership and administration — almost universally require a bachelor’s degree for admission. An ADN-prepared nurse who wants to pursue nurse practitioner certification or a master’s in nursing administration has to complete a BSN first, which adds time and cost to an already extended educational path.

Leadership roles within clinical settings increasingly reflect the same pattern. Charge nurse positions, unit manager roles, and clinical education responsibilities that once went to the most experienced nurse available are now more frequently tied to educational requirements. That ceiling isn’t universal, but it’s prevalent enough to matter for long-term career planning.

For ADN nurses who want to remove this barrier without stepping away from work, online accelerated BSN programs are specifically designed for licensed nurses looking to complete their bachelor’s degree efficiently. These programs build on existing clinical knowledge rather than restarting from scratch, which keeps the workload manageable while delivering the credential and the expanded curriculum that employers recognize.

The ADN Still Has a Place — But the Ceiling Is Lower

None of this makes the associate degree a poor choice in every context. ADN programs offer a faster, less expensive entry into nursing practice, and in shortage-affected regions or community health settings, ADN nurses fill essential roles without the hiring restrictions common in large health systems.

The honest framing is this: the ADN gets you into the profession; the BSN keeps more doors open within it. For nurses who started with an associate degree and are feeling that ceiling, the pathway to a bachelor’s is more accessible than it’s ever been. The question isn’t whether the degree is worth pursuing — the evidence is fairly settled on that — but when and how to fit it into a life that’s already full with clinical work.

The post Your Nursing Degree Level Affects More Than Your Resume appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

If you’ve recently got a hearing aid, then you should soon notice that they allow for a noticeable improvement in quality of life, making conversations and everyday life much easier to manage. Still, the journey from getting your device to getting all of the benefits can take a bit of time. In this post, we’ll run through a few handy tips that can make integrating your new device into your life more straightforward. 

It Can Take a Little Time to Adjust

Your hearing aid will be full of advanced technology that can have an immediate positive impact, but some first-time users can find the process a little bit overwhelming at first. After having lived so long without full hearing — in some cases, years — the brain often needs a little bit of time to get used to the new auditory input. Some new wearers find that some things, such as their own footsteps or voice, can sound a little too loud. It’s just your brain getting used to the new reality; within a month or so, you should find that the initial teething problems have passed.

Daily Cleaning Can Make All The Difference

Want to make sure that your device continues to work great? Then invest in daily cleaning. This is really important for keeping your device at high functionality, and it’s especially important for keeping hearing aids working in cold weather and hot weather. The winter months see additional movement between warm and cold environments, which can lead to a build-up of debris and moisture on the device. The summer months bring heat and sweat build-up. Spending a minute or so wiping down the device at the end of the day can help to keep it working correctly.

In addition to daily cleaning, it’s also recommended to have your hearing device cleaned professionally every 3 – 6 months, so that the internal components don’t become damaged by moisture, sweat, and other debris. 

Put Them Through Their Paces 

As we said above, modern hearing aids are full of advanced technology that allows them to perform exceptionally well. Once you’re used to them, it’s recommended to put them through their paces and see what the device is capable of. Spending some time in environments you used to avoid, such as loud cafes or restaurants, can confirm that you made the right decision getting fitted for a hearing aid. 

Your Audiologist Is There To Help You 

While it’s likely that your hearing device will perform exactly as expected, it’s also important to take action if anything feels a little off. Your audiologist will be there to help you if you have any issues, such as concerns about performance or the fit. If anything changes, then get in touch and make an appointment, and they should take care of it promptly. 

The post Just Got Hearing Aids? Here’s What You Need To Know appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

Constant Proximity Leads to Conflict

According to Nicole Leach, APRN-CNP, a nurse practitioner with Mercy Health, sibling irritation often isn’t tied to one specific trigger.

“Most of the time, siblings aren’t really annoyed with each other for one specific reason — it most likely stems from them being around each other constantly,” she explains.

Young children are still developing emotional regulation skills. As a result, frustration can build quickly and be expressed just as quickly. According to Northeastern University, sibling conflicts can occur up to eight times per hour in early childhood, highlighting just how common these interactions are.

A Normal Part Of development

Sibling “bugging” is typically not a red flag. Instead, it reflects children learning important social and emotional skills.

“Kids are learning boundaries, impulse control and how to get along with others first-hand,” Leach says.

However, when behaviors become consistently aggressive, frequent or distressing to one child, it may signal the need for closer attention and support.

The Role of Attention

Attention — whether from parents or others — can play a significant role in sibling conflict.

“If one sibling gets more time, praise or reassurance, it can spark tension and resentment over time,” Leach notes.

Importantly, children don’t need everything to be equal, but they do need it to feel fair. When children feel seen and heard, competition between siblings often decreases.

Age Gaps and Personality Differences

Certain sibling dynamics may naturally lead to more frequent irritation.

Siblings who are close in age are more likely to compete for the same resources, including attention, space and belongings. Larger age gaps can reduce day-to-day conflict, as children are in different developmental stages.

Personality also plays a role. A more assertive child paired with a more sensitive sibling can create a dynamic where one feels dominant and the other feels targeted, even unintentionally.

Teasing vs. Harmful Behavior

Not all sibling interactions are equal. Understanding the difference between playful teasing and harmful behavior is key.

“Playful teasing usually goes both ways and stops when someone asks for it to stop,” says Leach. “Harmful behavior pushes boundaries and leaves a child feeling upset or scared.”

Parents should pay close attention to how their child responds, as consistent distress can indicate that the behavior has crossed a line.

Helping Kids Handle Frustration

While it may be tempting to step in and resolve every disagreement, experts suggest a more hands-off approach when possible.

“Parents don’t have to solve every argument,” Leach says. “Setting clear rules and coaching children through problem-solving helps them build critical thinking skills.”

She adds that many day-to-day sibling conflicts are low-level and developmentally normal. In those moments, parents can take on a coaching role by staying calm, acknowledging feelings on both sides and guiding their kids through solutions rather than immediately fixing the problem for them. This helps prevent escalation while still teaching them important skills like communication and compromise.  

However, safety always comes first and parents should step in immediately if the situation escalates, whether it’s physical force, hurtful name calling or one child struggling to advocate for themselves.

Teaching children simple ways to express their feelings — such as asking for space or stating when they feel frustrated — can help reduce conflict over time and give them tools to manage disagreements more independently.

“Coaching siblings through problem-solving means giving them tools they can use independently,” Leach says. “An example of this is naming the problem, each child sharing one idea for a solution, and agreeing on a temporary solution together. I suggest teaching these skills outside the heat of the moment because when tensions are high, the likelihood of effective communication is lower.”

“However, if siblings can practice these skills in their everyday arguments, over time they’ll learn how to regulate emotions, communicate their needs and work through larger disagreements on their own,” she adds. 

The post Why do Siblings Annoy Each Other? appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

Between managing schedules, remembering school forms, coordinating meals and keeping track of everyone else’s needs, modern motherhood often comes with an invisible checklist that never really turns off. For a growing number of moms, self-care isn’t about occasional pampering — it’s about finding creative, sometimes unexpected ways to make daily life more sustainable.

Increasingly, experts say that meaningful self-care is less about spa days and more about practical shifts that help prevent burnout in the first place. So, in honor of Mother’s Day, we share six outside-the-box ways moms can redefine self-care — and find ways to protect their time, energy and sense of self.

1. Perform a Mental Load Audit

For Sarah, a mom of three from Medina, everything came crashing down one day out of the blue when she couldn’t remember if it was her youngest daughter’s school spirit week or picture day. 

“I remember standing in the kitchen, staring at a box of granola bars, and I started crying because mentally, I was short-circuiting,” she says. “My operating system was full.”

According to Kristen Horvath-Broda, M.Ed., LPCC-S, a member of the behavioral health team at Senders Pediatrics, the “mental load” is the constant, behind-the-scenes thinking that keeps family life running. This includes planning schedules, remembering details, anticipating needs, managing emotions, and feeling responsible for how things turn out. 

“During matrescence, the developmental transition into motherhood, it is very common for women to feel more mentally alert and deeply tuned in to their family’s needs,” she says. “Some increase in mental load is a normal part of this adjustment. It becomes more concerning when the responsibility stays unshared for long periods of time and begins to affect mood, energy or a parent’s overall sense of well-being.”

Horvath-Broda says that many mothers experience both biological and social pressure to step into the role of emotional organizer and daily planner, while at the same time their partners are often navigating their own transition into parenthood (sometimes called patrescence), which can involve redefining identity, responsibility and expectations. 

“Without intentional conversations, mothers can become the default managers of family life,” she notes. “Over time, carrying this invisible responsibility alone can lead to ongoing stress, resentment, anxiety and eventually burnout.”

For Sarah, this meant shouldering the bulk of her family’s “invisible inventory.” 

“I wasn’t just thinking about what was for dinner; I was thinking about which kid had outgrown their soccer cleats, who needed a permission slip signed by Tuesday, and whether we were low on trash bags,” she says. “It was a constant stream of logistics running 24/7. It wasn’t just the big stuff either, it was the micro-management of everyone’s emotional and physical needs. I felt like a human Google Calendar, but with way more anxiety and no snooze button.

“I realized I wasn’t actually living my life; I was just managing a series of crises,” Sarah adds. “I was snapping at the kids for being kids because their needs felt like a personal attack on my schedule.”

To redistribute that mental load, Sarah and her husband sat down and had a conversation about how they could better share responsibilities — and how she could give up some control.

“I realized I had been gatekeeping — I’d complain he didn’t help, but then I’d criticize how he did things,” Sarah says. “We had a very raw, very honest talk where I told him, ‘I am drowning, and I need you to own the outcome, not just take orders.’

“He owns the kitchen now: groceries, meal planning and dishes,” she adds. “I don’t even think about what’s for dinner anymore. I don’t remind him. If we run out of milk, that’s on him to solve. Giving up that control was terrifying, but it saved my sanity.”

Horvath-Broda says one helpful step to reducing a mom’s mental load is making responsibilities more visible and collaborative by using shared calendars, simple routines, and written task lists so that planning is not held by one person alone. 

“Reducing daily decision-making through predictable systems can also ease mental strain,” she says. “It is important to move away from one partner ‘helping’ and toward both adults fully owning different areas of family life. Letting go of perfection and aiming for what is realistic and sustainable can make a meaningful difference.”

2. Take Steps to Prevent Burnout

While the terms “stress” and “burnout” are often used interchangeably, they are very different — and impact parents and families in significantly different ways. Stress is typically a short-term response to pressure or demands, while burnout is physical, emotional or mental exhaustion, accompanied by decreased motivation, lowered performance and negative attitudes toward oneself and others, according to the American Psychological Association.

“Stress in parenting often rises and falls with circumstances. Burnout tends to feel more constant,” Horvath-Broda says. “Early signs can include feeling emotionally drained most days, losing enjoyment in parenting, becoming more irritable or withdrawn, struggling to focus, or feeling stuck even after rest. Some level of fatigue and emotional intensity is normal during major life transitions like matrescence and patrescence; burnout is more likely when a parent no longer feels able to recover.”

Implementing simple structure can help parents protect their mental and emotional energy, according to Horvath-Broda. This can include prioritizing sleep, creating predictable routines, and taking short reset pauses throughout the day to help feel more grounded and steady. 

Sarah realizes she’s close to burnout when she gets “prickly,” saying, “I stop finding things funny, and I start viewing my kids’ needs as interruptions rather than just life. When I realize I’m sighing every time someone says ‘Mom,’ I know I’m in the red zone.”

She uses a “10-minute reset” during which she goes into her bedroom, locks the door, and puts on noise-canceling headphones. “No phone, no scrolling, just quiet,” Sarah says. “It’s like hitting the refresh button.”

She adds that lowering some expectations has helped her stay sane, as well.

“In my 30s, I wanted the Pinterest house. Now? I’ve embraced the ‘good enough’ standard,” Sarah says. “The laundry might stay in the dryer for three days, and we eat breakfast for dinner at least once a week. My kids won’t remember the folded laundry, but they’ll remember a mom who wasn’t snapping at them.”

It may be time for parents to seek professional support when stress begins to interfere with daily functioning, relationships or overall mental health, according to Horvath-Broda. 

“Ongoing anxiety, low mood, intrusive thoughts, or feeling unable to cope are important signals,” she says. “Therapy can help parents understand what is a typical adjustment to parenthood and what may need additional support and care.”

3. Practice Everyday Stress Management

When it comes to self-care, it’s the small, everyday routines that tend to be more effective at managing stress than an occasional night out or a massage every few months. It’s less about luxury and more about staying emotionally balanced and physically supported, according to Horvath-Broda.

“Effective self care is often simple and practical. It may look like eating regular meals, stepping outside for fresh air, asking for help, setting boundaries, or protecting small pockets of personal time,” she says.

She recommends short breathing exercises, noticing your surroundings, gently stretching tense muscles, or taking a brief pause between tasks to help the body and mind settle. “Even a minute of intentional slowing can help parents feel more steady and able to cope,” Horvath-Broda adds.

Sarah anchors her day with simple morning and nighttime habits that help her feel more grounded.  

“I’m a photographer, so I’m visual. Every morning, I spend five minutes with my coffee just looking out the window — not at a screen. It’s a micro-break that anchors me before the chaos starts,” she says. “Before bed, I do a brain dump where I write down everything I’m worried about for the next day on a notepad. Once it’s on paper, my brain feels permission to stop looping it, and I can actually sleep.”

Horvath-Broda says these small, daily resets are important because they prevent stress from quietly building up. 

“Larger breaks are helpful and restorative, but they cannot fully make up for constant daily overload,” she says. “Regular moments of recovery support long-term emotional well-being.”

4. Reclaim Your Identity

With all the demands that motherhood brings, it’s easy to put so much focus on your children and family that your own hobbies and interests get lost in the shuffle. Reclaiming the things you were once passionate about is, in itself, a form of self-care.

“Becoming a parent is one of the most significant life transitions a person can experience. While it is natural for parenting to take center stage for a period of time, maintaining other parts of identity helps protect mental health,” Horvath-Broda says. “Having interests, goals and relationships outside of parenting can strengthen resilience and provide perspective during stressful seasons.”

She says that starting small is key: “Parents can return to hobbies in simple ways, schedule personal time like any other important commitment, connect with friends, or pursue learning and growth opportunities. Even brief and consistent engagement in meaningful activities can help rebuild confidence and emotional balance.”

“About four years ago, I realized I hadn’t picked up my camera for fun in years,” Sarah says. “It had become just ‘work’ or ‘taking photos of the kids.’ I missed the girl who used to wander downtown just to capture interesting shadows.”

Since then, she makes time for “Creative Fridays.”

“Even if it’s just two hours, I go somewhere solo to shoot whatever I want,” Sarah says. “No clients, no kids. It reminds me that I’m an artist who happens to be a mom, not just a mom or a professional.”

5. Form a Support Network

As it turns out, the phrase “it takes a village” not only applies to raising children, but to self-care as well. Connection and shared support are especially important for mothers. 

“People cope with stress best when they feel connected and understood. Talking with other parents, sharing experiences, and feeling less alone can ease pressure and normalize the challenges of early parenthood,” Horvath-Broda says. “Many parents become very self-reliant during times of transition. While this can feel necessary in the moment, it is not sustainable over time. Healthy families function best when responsibilities are shared. Accepting help is not a sign of weakness. It is a way of protecting both personal well-being and family stability.”

Sarah, who does not have family close by, has formed her own support network of friends and neighbors upon whom she can rely.

“I have my ‘business bestie,’ another photographer friend that I check in with every couple weeks,” she says. “We don’t just talk about gear; we talk about the struggle of doing it all. Knowing someone else is also trying to edit 400 photos while their kid has the stomach flu makes me feel less alone.”

She also has a carpool group with two other moms, with whom she created a rotating schedule for soccer practices. “It means I only have to drive my middle child to practice one night a week, instead of three,” Sarah says. “We don’t over-complicate it with spreadsheets, we just trust each other.”

6. Budget Your Energy

When you’re stretched thin, managing your time isn’t always enough — what matters just as much is how you’re spending your energy. Taking a closer look at what fuels you versus what drains you can help you make small, meaningful shifts that protect your well-being and support your family.

“One helpful approach is to notice which daily activities leave you feeling energized, neutral or depleted,” Horvath-Broda says. “Writing this down for several days can reveal patterns and help parents understand where changes may be needed.”

Once you have a clearer picture of your energy patterns, the next step is being intentional about where that energy goes — and where it doesn’t.

“Parents can begin by clarifying what matters most during this stage of family life. From there, they can reduce unnecessary commitments, communicate needs clearly, and focus energy on routines and relationships that support stability and connection,” Horvath-Broda says. “Boundaries are not about shutting people out, they are about using energy thoughtfully.”

The post Outside-the-Box Self-Care for Moms appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

Plus, learn about how AI can impact children’s mental health, celebrate area teachers, prepare for a summer of learning fun, and more!

The post Read the May 2026 Issue of Northeast Ohio Parent appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

But it doesn’t need to be complicated. When you focus on a few key decisions, your trip becomes much easier to manage and a lot more enjoyable.

Start with Comfort, Not Just the Destination

It’s tempting to pick the destination first and then figure everything else out at a later date, but when you are traveling with family, comfort is as important as the location. Long journeys, cramped spaces, and poor planning can turn even the best destination into a stressful experience.

If you are planning to drive, take the time to choose the right family car for the trip. Space, fuel efficiency, and reliability can make a huge difference, especially if you are heading on a longer route.

You need to think about things like legroom, storage, and how easy it is to get in and out. These small details are factors that everyone feels during the whole journey. When the travel itself is comfortable, the whole trip starts on a much better note.

Keep Your Schedule Flexible

Overplanning is one of the easiest ways to add stress to a family trip. You might want to make sure you see everything, but having a full-packed schedule leaves very little room for rest or unexpected changes. With kids or larger groups, you are almost guaranteed to get a delay.

Instead, plan 1 or 2 key activities each day and leave plenty of space in between for breaks, meals, or simply relaxing. This gives you plenty of room to adjust without feeling like you are falling behind or missing out. Some of the best moments on your trip will usually happen when you’re not rushing to the next stop, too.

Make Food Part of the Experience

Food can have a huge impact on how you remember a place that you visit. Rather than treating meals as a quick break, use them as part of the experience. Look for places that feel welcoming and relaxed, especially when you are traveling with your family.

There’s no need for you to head out for fine dining. You need good food in a setting where everybody feels comfortable. If you come across an award-winning pizza restaurant, it’s worth slowing down and enjoying it. Meals like that often become the highlights of the trip.

Let everybody take turns choosing where to eat. It makes the experience more engaging and gives every single person something to look forward to and enjoy.

Conclusion

Planning a family trip does not need to be overwhelming or too complicated. You just need to focus on things like comfort, keeping your schedule flexible, and making space for simple moments like the food. Pay attention to how you travel, not just the destination you’re visiting.

Small decisions are something that shape the entire experience. When you keep things simple and stay flexible, your trip will be very easy to manage and enjoyable for everyone involved.

The post How to Plan a Relaxed Family Trip Without Overcomplicating It appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

Not all healthcare careers are created equally, though, and not everyone has the time or resources to go to medical school. Here are six fast-track health paths that high schoolers can consider after graduation.

1. Medical Assistant

One of the most popular fast-track healthcare paths is for graduates to get into a clinical assistant certification program. It can be completed in about 9-12 months, and accelerated options can take just a few months. Common certifications include the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) or Certified Medical Assistant (CMA).

Medical assistants work in:

• Physician offices
• Outpatient clinics
• Hospitals

Their responsibilities include:

• Taking vital signs
• Scheduling appointments
• Assisting with exams

2. Pharmacy Technician

A pharmacy technician supports pharmacists by:

• Preparing medications
• Managing prescriptions
• Assisting customers

Training is relatively short; it often lasts 3-12 months through certification programs or on-the-job training. However, most employers prefer or require certification, such as the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE).

Pharmacy technicians typically work in retail pharmacies, although they can also work in hospitals or mail-order pharmacy services, too. Since there’s increasing prescription demand and an aging population, pharmacy tech jobs will remain steady and accessible for entry-level candidates.

3. EKG Technician

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that the job outlook for cardiovascular technologists and technicians from 2024 to 2034 is 3%, which shows that there’s a growing demand as cardiovascular issues remain a leading health concern. EKG technicians can work in hospitals’ cardiology clinics, and diagnostic labs.

Training programs often last 4-6 months and focus on:

• Cardiac anatomy
• Rhythm interpretation
• Equipment use

Most people get certified as a Certified EKG Technician (CET).

4. Phlebotomy Technician

Phlebotomy technicians are trained to draw blood for testing, transfusions, or research. Training programs are among the fastest in healthcare; you can complete them in as little as 4-12 weeks, followed by certification such as the Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT).

These professionals work in:

• Hospitals
• Laboratories
• Blood donation centers
• Clinics

5. Dental Assistant

Dental assistants help dentists with:

• Procedures
• Patient preparation
• Office management tasks

Training usually takes 9-12 months through a certificate or diploma program. However, some states allow on-the-job training. Certification, such as the Certified Dental Assistant (CDA), may be required, depending on the location.

Dental assistants typically work in:

• Private dental offices
• Orthodontic clinics
• Specialty practices

6. Patient Care Technician (PCT)

PCTs provide direct support to patients, and they often assist with:

• Daily care
• Vital signs
• Basic medical procedures

Training programs usually take 4-12 months and often include skills like phlebotomy and EKG, which makes PCTs highly versatile. They can improve job prospects with additional certifications.

Workplaces for these professionals include:

• Hospitals
• Nursing homes
• Long-term care facilities

Get Into Healthcare Fast After Graduation

Many high school students want to get a job fast after graduating, and the healthcare industry is perfect for this. There are many career paths that only take a year of training (or less), so they have many choices to find a fulfilling future.

Browse our website for more information on raising kids.

The post 6 Fast-Track Health Paths After High School appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

The Stop the Hate contest includes multiple components: Youth Speak Out essay and poetry writing and Youth Sing Out songwriting for classrooms. Together, they celebrate Northeast Ohio students in grades 6-12 who are committed to building a more accepting and inclusive world.

With more than 300 attendees, the ceremony—hosted by Gabriella Kreuz, founder of Love Doesn’t Shove.

“To me, Stop the Hate is about reflecting on our own lives and choices, and choosing to lead with love—the true opposite of hate,
Kreuz shared at the event, according to the press release. “It’s about being a leader through our actions, guided by compassion, empathy, and respect for others. Participation in this program is so important because young people inspire us. Seeing the next generation commit to kindness, integrity, and doing what’s right gives us all a renewed sense of hope for the future.”

Reneé Chelm, Board Chair of the Maltz Museum, opened the ceremony by reflecting on the legacy of the program and reaffirming the organization’s commitment to expanding the impact of Stop the Hate.

“This has been a milestone year for the Maltz Museum as we celebrate 20 years of the institution and 18 years of Stop the Hate,” Chelm said. “As we look ahead to the next 20 years, our commitment to this work is stronger than ever. We are investing in the future of Stop the Hate—expanding it into a year-round, mission-defining initiative that will reach broader audiences and deepen its impact across our community.”

She also shared updates on the programing, including an increase to the grand prize essay scholarship to $30,00o.  In partnership with Cuyahoga County Public Library, the 2026 Stop the Hate finalists’ essays, poems, and songs will be printed and made available at all library locations throughout the county.

See the 2026 Youth Speak Out: Essay & Poetry Contest Winners below. For more information on the winners, visit: maltzmuseum.org

Youth Speak Out Essays: 11th – 12th Grade

Grand Prize: $30,000 scholarship + $4,000 educational grant for their school

Manasvi Gurajala, Grade 11, Solon High School

First Runner-Up: $15,000 scholarship + $2,000 educational grant for their school

Elizabeth Chen, Grade 12, Berea-Midpark High School

Second Runner Up: $10,000 scholarship + $1,000 educational grant for their school

2Ayesha Faruki, Grade 12, Mentor High School

Third Runner Up: $5,000 scholarship + $500 educational grant for their school

Liam Hernandez, Grade 12, Aurora High School

Honorable Mentions: All receive a $1,000 cash prize + a $500 educational grant for their schools

Sophie Frissore, Grade 12, Aurora High School

Autumn Ladner, Grade 12, Aurora High School

Madeline Roisman, Grade 12, Saint Joseph Academy

Austin Rule, Grade 11, Aurora High School

Asher Sullivan, Grade 11, Shaker Heights High School

Ann Varghese, Grade 12, Aurora High School

Youth Speak Out Essays: 6th – 10th Grade

10th Grade:

First Place: $400 cash prize

Samipa Patel, Solon High School

Runner Up: $100 cash prize

Younes Tajik, Natividad Pagan International Newcomers Academy

9th Grade:

First Place: $400 cash prize

Eva Jones, Avon Lake High School

Runner Up: $100 cash prize

Fatima Shah, Hathaway Brown School

8th Grade:

First Place: $400 cash prize

Karson Kirth, Independence Middle School

Runner Up: $100 cash prize

Raegan Eichenlaub, North Ridgeville Academic Center

7th Grade:

First Place: $400 cash prize

June Weaver, Garfield Middle School

3Runner Up: $100 cash prize

Kylie King-Woods, Hathaway Brown School

6th Grade:

First Place: $400 cash prize

Peter Metoki, Hudson Middle School

Runner Up: $100 cash prize

Caleb Lehman, North Ridgeville Academic Center

Youth Speak Out Poetry: High School

First Place: $2,000 cash prize + $1,000 educational grant for their school

Myka Steggall, Grade 10, Oberlin High School

Second Place: $1,500 cash prize + $500 educational grant for their school

Zoe Pierce, Grade 11, Lakewood High School

Third Place: $1,000 cash prize + $500 educational grant for their school

Linh Nguyen, Grade 12, Aurora High School

Honorable Mentions: ALL receive a $500 cash prize

Ave Myers, Grade 10, Oberlin High School

Don’Nae Sanford, Grade 10, Walsh Jesuit High School

Youth Speak Out Poetry: Middle School

First Place: $400 cash prize

Anna Kellermann, Grade 7, Ballard Brady Middle School

Second Place: $300 cash prize

Maya Bourguignon, Grade 8, Beachwood Middle School

Third Place: $200 cash prize

Christina Chhetri, Grade 8, Bolich Middle School

Honorable Mentions: ALL receive a $100 cash prize

Khloee Booth, Grade 8, Almira Pre-K Academy

Farai Chiunda, Grade 8, Beachwood Middle School

2026 Youth Sing Out: Song Contest Winners

First Place High School: $3,000 educational grant for their school

Title: “You Don’t Know Me”

Lewis Treece’s 11th & 12th Grade Class

Rhodes School of Environmental Studies

ROOTS of American Music Teaching Artist: Matt “Cutty” Banner

Runner Up High School: $1,500 educational grant for their school

Title: “Break the Chain”

Janet Creamer’s Extra-Curricular/After School Class

Walsh Jesuit High School

ROOTS of American Music Teaching Artist: Kennedy Nagel

First Place Middle School: $3,000 educational grant for their school

Title: “We Will Rise”

Kelly Koehler’s 2nd Period Class

North Ridgeville Academic Center

ROOTS of American Music Teaching Artist: Kennedy Nagel

Runner Up Middle School: $1,500 educational grant for their school

Title: “Mystery of Iniquity”

Mary Matisak’s 5th Period Class

Milkovich Middle School

ROOTS of American Music Teaching Artist: Esther Fitz

Stop the Hate: Teachers of the Year

Together, with its partners, the Maltz Museum named two recipients of the Stop the Hate Teacher of

the Year award. Each received a $1,000 cash prize in recognition of their commitment to fostering

inclusive learning environments. Congratulations to Kelly Koehler of North Ridgeville Academic Center

and Janet Creamer of Walsh Jesuit High School.

Stop the Hate: Educational Grant

This year, Northeast Ohio educators dedicated to creating inclusive learning environments were invited

to apply for a $1,400 educational grant. The Maltz Museum awarded the grant to Garfield Heights

Middle School to support a reading club and project centered on The Hate You Give by Angie Thomas.

The post Maltz Museum Announces Winners of 2026 Stop the Hate Youth Speak Out and Youth Sing Out Contest appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

Still looking for a summer program for your child? Here’s our 2026 listings from the April edition of the Camp and Summer Programs Guide. It’s time to decide on where to send your kids this camp season, whether you are looking for day or overnight adventures.

ACHIEVEMENT CENTERS
Achievement Centers for Children hosts several summer camps on its beautiful 52-acre Camp Cheerful campus in Strongsville. Cheerful Day Camp provides a traditional camp experience for campers with disabilities ages 5-22 from June 8-Aug. 14 (single week options available). Other camps include Sensational Extended School Year (in partnership with school districts for students K-12) and Summer Overnight Camp (5 nights) for campers 16 and older. Activities include swimming, arts and crafts, adapted recreation, and horse barn visits. achievementcenters.org/summercamps

ARCHBISHOP HOBAN HIGH SCHOOL
Register for Hoban’s Summer Camps to experience life as a Hoban Knight, gain additional instruction and have tons of fun during Hoban’s academic and athletic camps. Hoban’s academic summer camp programs, held June 22-25 and July 13-16, offer morning and afternoon sessions for kids to enjoy a full day of adventure. Athletic camps are led by Hoban coaches and student-athletes to help kids develop technical skills, game knowledge and love of the sport.
hoban.org/summer-camp

BECK CENTER FOR THE ARTS, LAKEWOOD
Kids ages 5 to 19 discover endless creative possibilities at Beck Center for the Arts. Students of all abilities explore theater, dance, music and visual arts through year-round classes, summer camps, private music lessons, early childhood programs and inclusive creative arts therapies. With engaging options for beginners through advanced learners, Beck Center offers a welcoming environment to grow skills, build confidence and have fun.
beckcenter.org/arts-education

BELLWETHER FARM CAMP
Looking for a screen-free, adventure-filled summer experience where your child can explore, learn and build lifelong friendships? Bellwether Farm Camp is a week-long, overnight experience where children grow in confidence, creativity and connection. Set on 137-acres of forest, farm, meadows and water, the camp blends outdoor adventure with meaningful community, offering kids space to explore, reflect, and simply be themselves in a welcoming and supportive environment. They have a camp session for everyone.
bellwetherfarm.com

BENEDICTINE SPORTS AND ACADEMIC CAMPS
Benedictine athletic camps provide top-notch training, helping young athletes improve their skills in a fun, supportive environment. Participants learn teamwork, sportsmanship and discipline, which are essential both on and off the field. Its academic camps allow students to delve deeper into subjects they enjoy or want to improve in beyond the regular classroom curriculum. Students develop new skills — from critical thinking and problem-solving to teamwork and communication — essential for academic and personal growth. cbhs.edu/camps

BEYOND WORDS: MUSIC, ART & DANCE CENTER 
beyondwordscenter.org

CAMP CANOPY
Registration is open for Ohio’s premier forestry camp for high school students. Combining traditional summer camp amusements and hands-on forestry and wildlife management activities, this week-long experience from June 7-12 in beautiful Muskingum, Ohio, is not to be missed. Its industry-leading camp counselors have developed an enriching schedule of fun and interactive classes that can even lead to a college scholarship! Register now to secure early-bird prices and make sure your camper has a spot.
campcanopy.com

CAMP CARL SUMMER CAMP
campcarl.life

CAMP FITCH YMCA
campfitchymca.org

CAMP GILMOUR
gilmour.org/summercamp

CAMP INVENTION
Camp Invention® is coming to curious kids in Northeast Ohio this summer. Rising K-6 campers will collaborate with friends to tackle hands-on, open-ended challenges. They’ll ride the waves of entrepreneurship, build a DIY space rocket and more! Each experience is designed to inspire innovative thinking with fun-filled STEM experiences that spark creativity and a love for learning. Visit invent.org/save/summer-camp to secure your spot! Use promo code MYCAMP25 to save $25. Payment plans are available.

CAMP JCC OF AKRON
June 8-Aug. 14. Different weekly experiences allow campers to discover new hobbies and explore favorite interests. Specialty camp offerings include a variety of sports, creative arts, STEM and counselor-in-training sessions. All are welcome at the JCC, regardless of religious preference. Whether you choose a specialty or traditional camp, all campers attend from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. daily (aftercare available until 5:30pm). Daily activities include swimming, art and games. Available for grades 1-12. Register at shawjcc.org/camp-j

CAMP NUHOP
nuhop.org

CHAGRIN VALLEY LITTLE THEATRE
Chagrin Valley Little Theatre, now in its 96th Season, offers youth theater programs that help students build confidence, creativity and teamwork skills in a supportive environment. CVLT’s Summer Theatre Camp for grades K-8 runs weekdays July 8-25. Registration is now open for camp and our after-school theater workshop programs for children and teens of all experience levels. Join in the fun here in Chagrin Falls. For details, see cvlt.org/youth

CLEVELAND CITY DANCE
clevelandcitydance.com

CLEVELAND FOUNDRY COMMUNITY ROWING & SAILING ORGANIZATION
Cleveland Foundry Summer Camp offers hands-on rowing and sailing experiences on Lake Erie and the Cuyahoga River. Campers learn to row and sail through expert instruction, building confidence, teamwork, and leadership skills on the water. With a focus on safety, skill development and fun, programs combine outdoor adventure with real-world learning. Whether beginners or experienced, kids gain lifelong skills and unforgettable experiences at Cleveland’s premier community rowing and sailing center.
clevelandfoundry.org

CLEVELAND HISTORY CENTER
wrhs.org

CLEVELAND METROPARKS
clevelandmetroparks.com/camps

CLEVELAND PLAY HOUSE SUMMER CAMPS
Dive into the world of theatre at Cleveland Play House Summer Camp. For ages K-12, your child or teen can discover and build upon their creative skills in a vibrant and exciting hands-on environment. Camps available for all grades K-12 with offerings catered to different skill levels. Aftercare is available for grades K-8. Visit clevelandplayhouse.com/camps to sign up.

CREATIVE PLAYROOMS
Get creative for summer camp. Summer’s coming, which means longer days, fun in the sun and great friends. Join the “Voyagers” at Creative Playrooms Montessori and Child Care Centers for the best summer ever — full of adventure, imagination and engagement to keep campers ages 5-12 busy and active. Themed activities and programs. Explorations around famous people, places and things. They believe in encouraging children to explore more deeply through doing, asking questions and having a great time. Join them this summer as they heat up the fun factor. Save your space today. Several locations throughout Northeast Ohio. Call 440-349-9111, or visit creativeplayrooms.com

CUYAHOGA COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Whether your child is a young performer or a budding engineer, Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C) Summer Camps will help them realize their full potential. Choose from more than 20 camps for ages 4-18 at one of its campuses or online. Nuts and Bolts Academy provides an opportunity to design and create objects using state-of-the-art manufacturing equipment. Creative Arts Academy offers dance, vocal arts mastery, orchestra and JazzFest Academy. A variety of athletics camps are also available. Visit tri-c.edu/summercamps for descriptions and registration.

EARTHOLOGY 
Explore. Learn. Thrive. Its nature-based program fosters growth through exploration, mindfulness and play. Guided nature walks, sustainable crafts, animal visits, and free play help kids build skills and resilience all while boosting their immunity and mood. Join them for adventures in all weather, where learning and playing meet the beauty of the natural world. Weekly summer sessions (June–August) promote confidence and a love for nature. Immerse your child in the wonders of Earthology. earthologykids.org

FAIRMOUNT EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER
Fairmount Early Childhood Center Summer Camp accommodates children ages 3-5 years old. It includes weekly themes, outdoor activities, on-site learning experiences, art, water activities, and lots more fun in the sun. Seven weeks of camp are offered between June 15-July 31. Registration is currently open for residents and non-residents. For more information and registration, please visit the website or contact Camp Director Jennifer Kobylski at 216-464-2600 or email jkobylski@beachwoodschools.org.
fairmount.beachwoodschools.org/summer-camp

FALCON CAMP
Recognized throughout the Midwest as Ohio’s premier summer camp since 1959. Falcon offers a beautiful lakefront setting; talented, experienced staff; and a wide variety of activities. Campers choose their own schedules within the general framework. Most of all, it’s great fun. Special introductory camp for ages 6-10. ACA accredited. At Falcon, good things happen by design. 330-627-4269, falconcamp.com

FARMER FOR A DAY CAMP
Spend the day at Nickajack Farms, “Farmer for a Day” Camp. Designed for kids ages 6–12, campers will enjoy hands-on farm chores, meeting friendly farm animals, wagon rides, games, playground time, and fun crafts. It’s a perfect mix of learning and play in the fresh country air. Registration is required and available online at nickajackfarms.com. Questions? Call our office 330-323-9714. Spaces are limited, so register early for an unforgettable farm experience your kids will love.

A SUMMER OF ARTFUL EXPRESSION AT THE FINE ARTS ASSOCIATION
Give your child a summer filled with self-expression, confidence, and discovery through FAA’s exciting summer camps and classes. From theatre, music and dance to visual arts and creative arts therapies, kids of all abilities can explore new skills and make new friends in a welcoming environment. Opportunities to perform on stage, and camps where a child can explore all of the arts are our specialty. Don’t miss out spots fill fast. Register today at fineartsassociation.org

FORGE THE FUTURE CAMP CLEVELAND
forging.org

FRIENDSHIP CIRCLE OF CLEVELAND
Friendship Circle of Cleveland brings children and teens with social needs together to build real friendships and have fun in an inclusive, welcoming environment. Through camps and programs, participants are paired with teen FriendMakers or small groups to build friendships, develop social skills, try new activities and have fun. It’s a place to feel confident, included and excited to belong. Contact them at 216-377-3000 or hello@friendscleveland.com and register for one of its programs at
friendscleveland.com/programs

GIRL SCOUTS OF NORTH EAST OHIO
gsneo.org/summercamp

HAWKEN SUMMER PROGRAMS
Hawken Summer Programs offer a variety of activities led by experienced professionals for boys and girls ages 3 to 18. Camps run between June and August, and offerings include day camps, passport camps, athletics camps and summer studies. These opportunities enable children to develop existing passions and discover new ones; they also provide exposure to new people and new skills, which helps build self-esteem, independence and confidence. For more information, contact summerprograms@hawken.edu, 440-423-2940, or visit summer.hawken.edu

NIKE YOUTH SPORTS CAMP
i9sports.com

JUMONVILLE CAMP & RETREAT CENTER
Jumonville Camp & Retreat Center is located 50 miles south of Pittsburgh in Pennsylvania’s beautiful Laurel Highlands. At Jumonville, kids learn to feel with their hearts, do with their hands, and live together in Christian community. Campers are taught to appreciate life’s simplicity, the value of friendship, respect for the natural environment, and the thrill of adventure! With programs for a variety of ages and interests, families have been choosing Jumonville for 85 years. jumonville.org

JUMP START SPORTS SUMMER CAMPS
Jump Start Sports summer camps offer a fun, engaging experience for kids at convenient locations all over Northeast Ohio. The creative curriculum features fun weekly themes and a wide variety of sports, with a strong focus on FUNdamentals, character building, values, friendships and sports fundamentals. Camps are led by well-qualified, well-trained staff and designed with flexible schedules to meet family needs — so every child can learn, grow and have fun all summer long. linktr.ee/jumpstartsportsclevelandakron

LAKE COUNTY YMCA SUMMER CAMPS 
There’s no place like YMCA Summer Camp: a home away from home where kids laugh, learn, explore and grow, all while creating memories and friendships that last a lifetime. The YMCA knows that every kid is different. That’s why it offers camps for your child’s needs. Financial assistance is available for those who qualify. Locations in Willoughby, Painesville and Madison. Learn about their sites and curriculum at
lakecountyymca.org

LAKE ERIE NATURE & SCIENCE CENTER
lensc.org/summer-camps

LAKE RIDGE ACADEMY SUMMER CAMP
Make this summer unforgettable at Lake Ridge Academy. Held on its beautiful 93-acre campus, campers in grades K–8 can choose full- or half-day options that inspire curiosity, creativity and fun. From its signature Play @ LRA adventure and recreation program to enrichment camps in STEM, fine arts, athletics and outdoor exploration, there’s something for everyone. Experienced faculty and trusted partners lead activities that build new skills, friendships and memories. Register now. lakeridgeacademy.org/student-life/summer-programs

LIGHTS, CAMERA, CONNECTION!!  
Campers use favorite film clips, games and creative projects to explore feelings, friendships and real-world social skills. Join them in Beachwood for 4 weeks of sessions from June 8 to July 3. Master communication, conflict resolution, problem-solving and teamwork through an exciting movie-themed adventure. Weekly sessions available. Early registration and multi-week discounts offered; $450 per week. Offered by Perspectives Academy and Jay H. Berk, Ph.D. & Associates. Contact pasummercamp@jayberkphd.com or call 216-320-0180.

LUTHERAN WEST SUMMER CAMPS
This summer, go West. Lutheran West Summer Camps combine fun, learning and skill development with camps in basketball, soccer, volleyball, football, baseball, cooking and baking, art, and Camp Invention. Spots fill quickly; register now at lutheranwest.com/camps. See you this summer. lutheranwest.com/camps

MAGNIFICAT
magnificaths.org 

NATURE CENTER AT SHAKER LAKES
Children swap screen time for nature to learn and explore in the outdoor classroom. Campers will love their one-of-a-kind, week-long camp experiences taught by teachers and highly trained naturalists. Find an outdoor adventure to inspire an appreciation for the natural world, unlocking a summer full of learning, reflection, friends and fun. Register early, as camp sessions often sell out. Financial assistance available. 216-321-5935, shakerlakes.org/camp

OBERLIN CHORISTERS WORLD MUSIC CAMP
The Oberlin Choristers’ World Music Camp invites children to explore the vibrant music and culture of Eastern Europe through singing, dancing, art, games and hands-on musical discovery. Campers will learn about language, customs, peoples and traditions from this region under the guidance of Oberlin Choristers faculty and special guests. World Music Camp is sure to be a rich, confidence-building summer experience. June 8-12, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. ochoristers.org

ODYSSEY FILM CAMPS
Odyssey Film Camps at Cleveland State University’s School of Film & Media Arts offers four different residential or day camps for teens (age 13-18) interested in filmmaking. With access to the film school’s professional soundstages and production equipment, Odyssey participants learn screenwriting, acting, directing, cinematography, editing and complete their own individual film projects, including a college admissions interview video. Odyssey Camps offer a unique pre-college experience on CSU Arts Campus in the heart of Playhouse Square. csufilmodyssey.com

OHIO 529 COLLEGE ADVANTAGE
Summer camps can open new worlds for your child. So does college and career training after high school. Ohio 529 CollegeAdvantage helps families save tax-free for education at four-year or two-year colleges; trade, technical or vocational schools; and apprenticeships nationwide. You can also use an Ohio 529 account to pay for K-12 tuition and repay student loan debt. Learn, plan and start for as little as $25 with Ohio 529 today at collegeadvantage.com

PROGRESS WITH CHESS
Enrich your child’s summer break with chess camp. Players receive plenty of individual attention in small groups of 10 or less, divided by age and skill level. Its instructors provide an organized and diverse schedule of chess activities. All camp schedules include breaks with outdoor recess. All participants receive a chess medal and Progress With Chess workbook, and all camps include a traditional “last day of chess camp” pizza party for players and their families. progresswithchess.org

SCHOOL OF ROCK SUMMER MUSIC CAMPS
Give your child a summer they’ll never forget at School of Rock Cleveland! Its music camps for ages 5-18 offer hands-on experience in guitar, drums, keys, bass and vocals. No experience needed for beginner programs. Campers learn songs, form bands, make friends, and perform live by the end of the week. With themed camps across its Cleveland locations, there’s something for everyone! Use code NEO10 for 10% off through May 31. schoolofrock.com/music-camps

SNAPOLOGY OF CLEVELAND 
snapology.com/ohio-cleveland

SOCIAL SKILLS 360
Social Skills 360 overnight camp for ages 8-20 runs July 26-Aug. 4 at Camp Aldersgate in Carrollton, Ohio, with a focus on learning and making new friends. Directed by a licensed clinical psychologist, campers take part in fun activities such as fishing, swimming, gaga, archery, paint wars, sports court, canoeing, slip-n-slide, rock climbing, high ropes, dunk tank, and so much more.  With social skills groups every night in a structured, goal-oriented environment.  To register or information, visit socialskills360.com or call 216-223-3070.

TALESPINNER CHILDREN’S THEATRE SUMMER CAMP
Talespinner Children’s Theatre Summer Camps offer young performers a creative, engaging space to explore acting, musical theatre, storytelling and more. Led by experienced teaching artists, campers build confidence and develop performance skills in a supportive environment. With both weeklong themed camps and two full production camps, every child has a chance to shine on stage. Join them for a summer filled with imagination, growth and fun. Learn more at
talespinnercle.org/camps

TOTAL EDUCATION SOLUTIONS
Helping Children Build Skills for Life. Confidence grows when children have the right support. Total Education Solutions Ohio is offering summer programs designed to help children strengthen important life skills. Social Skills Groups help children connect with peers. Feeding Therapy Groups create positive, successful mealtime experiences. Executive Functioning Coaching builds focus, organization, and independence for school and daily life. Serving families throughout Ohio. Learn more at tesidea.com

UNIVERSITY SCHOOL
us.edu/summer

WEST SIDE GYMNASTICS
Get ready for some serious fun. West Side Gymnastics in Copley is offering themed camps for ages 3+ from June-August. All camps include gymnastics, crafts, summertime games, STEM activities and much more. There will be some magical guests and very special activities throughout the summer, including a bounce house, field trip to the fire/police station, visit from Akron’s First Tee, and some sweet treats. Check out the website for more details:
westsidegymnastics.net

WILLOUGHBY-EASTLAKE PUBLIC LIBRARY
we247.org

YMCA CAMP TIPPECANOE
At YMCA Camp Tippecanoe, summer feels like the adventure every child imagines. Campers soar through the trees on a zip line, guide horses along wooded trails and paddle canoes across Lake Clendening’s calm waters. Days are filled with archery, swimming and laughter, while evenings bring everyone together around glowing campfires beneath the stars. Trying something new, building confidence, and making lifelong friends, create memories that last well beyond summer. Learn more or register at camptipp.org

YMCA HAYO-WENT-HA CAMPS 
With 122 years of premier wilderness adventure balanced with traditional overnight camp, YMCA Hayo-Went-Ha Camps proudly offer transformative outdoor experiences for ages 8-17 in two- or four-week sessions. Their progressive, age-appropriate trips span iconic destinations — from Sleeping Bear Dunes and Isle Royale to their capstone expedition in Alaska — challenging, inspiring and building confidence in campers. Their single-gender camps provide an unplugged summer rooted in tradition, exploration and next-level achievement. Each for All, All for Each. Traverse City: 231-946-8589 and Central Lake:
231-544-5915. hayowentha.org

The post Northeast Ohio Parent Camp and Summer Program Guide Listings appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

The Northeast Ohio Parent Choice Awards seeks to gather the opinions of local parents on everything family-friendly in the region. Winners and runner-ups will be published in the June/July issue of Northeast Ohio Parent magazine.

In April, our readers will submit their favorites in more than 35 categories, naming businesses, attractions, family services, and more.

During the voting period, through April 30, you’ll get to submit your family-friendly favorites in Northeast Ohio!

Participants who complete a ballot and vote in at least 25 categories will be entered into a drawing to win a family 4-pack to the Greater Cleveland Aquarium

Click here to vote for your favorites! 

Here are this year’s categories:

• Best town to raise a family

• Best museum to visit with your family

• Best live theater experience for kids

• Best playground (provide specific location) 

• Best park or place to take a nature walk with kids (provide specific location) 

• Best splash pad

• Best family water adventure

• Best family sports outing (location/team)

• Best indoor play place

• Best animal encounter

• Best place for tween/teen adventure

• Best sensory-friendly outing (special needs)

• Best Northeast Ohio staycation destination

• Best summer camp/program 

•  Best library 

• Best thrift/consignment for children’s clothing

• Best local independent store to buy toys, games and learning products

• Best kid-friendly shopping destination

• Best place for kids’ swim lessons

• Best dance studio

• Best place for gymnastics

• Best place for family fitness

• Best place for children to explore music 

• Best place to have a birthday party

• Best local place for a kid’s haircut

• Best kid-friendly dental practice

• Best orthodontist practice

• Best pediatrics practice 

• Best hospital in a child emergency 

• Best hospital to have a baby

• Best pregnancy/postpartum care for moms and families

• Best daycare/preschool 

• Best local place to find a babysitter/childcare

• Best Parent’s Night Out destination

• Favorite Northeast Ohio Professional Athlete (current teams)

• Best Northeast Ohio Parent Influencer 

• Best locally-owned place to get coffee/tea

The post Last Call! 2026 Northeast Ohio Parent Choice Awards: Vote for Your Favorites! appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

They expand your audience, create social proof and provide genuine content that you can’t manufacture. A solution to this is strategic incentive to reward your customers for behavior you would like to observe.

This article outlines nine tested strategies of rewarding customers for social media follows, share, follows, and content created by users. You will also learn you can design rewards for social shares that will actually increase participation. 

Why Reward Social Media Engagement?

Members of loyalty programs have high levels of interest. An American thrift store discovered that 53% of all new Instagram followers originate from loyal members. 

The followers are active and spend more. This is one of the most tested loyalty program ideas that work; using the existing members of loyalty to encourage social growth. This draws quality followers, not the flimsiest of metrics.

Beyond that, user-generated media (UGC) produced via rewards can build trust advertising can’t match. 88% of consumers are influenced by recommendations from relatives and friends greater than any other form of marketing. 

Unlock 45,000+ New Eyes: 9 Ways to Reward Customers for Social Media Follows

Method 1: Award Points for Following

One of the easiest ways to get started is by offering loyalty points to customers adhering to your social media accounts. This will require little work from the customers and provides an unbeatable value to your business.

The way to do it: How to set up an incentive program where loyal users earn points by following the page on Instagram, TikTok, or the Facebook page.

In order to verify, request for them to send a text message with a number of characters such as “FAN2026” after following. This is a way to confirm the operation without any manual following.

Optional customization options: Provide single-time points onboarding blasts to greet new members of loyalty. Create recurring campaigns for ongoing engagement. Create limited-time seasonal campaigns at times of the year or during new product launches to increase an atmosphere of urgency.

Method 2: Reward Tagging and Mentions

If customers mention your brand on stories, posts, and reels they reveal your product to the whole social media networks. It’s a form of word-of-mouth advertising at size.

The way it works: is to award rewards every time a loyal customer tags or mentions your brand through social content. You are able to customize the frequency the rewards are awarded–once per day, indefinitely, or in specific time intervals.

The reason it works: The national thrift store employing this method had 12 loyal customers identify their company within a month, increasing brand awareness by more than 45,000 new customers and earning over 3,000 followers.

Method 3: Launch Branded Hashtag Challenges

Challenges with hashtags transform social interaction into a communal game. If customers take part, they produce a flood of authentic UGC and compete to win rewards.

The way it works: It  is to launch the hashtag with a brand name and earn points for each post made using the hashtag. For example, a fitness brand could run a “#TrainWith[YourBrand]” campaign and reward members for sharing workout posts.

What works: This campaign is a self-perpetuating cycle. Participants post their entries on social media that encourage participants to share their entries, increasing the reach of your campaign by a huge amount.

Method 4: Hold Photo Contests that require points to enter

Photo contests create excellent UGC because customers are able to invest their time into attractive material. Giving rewards for social shares; points or store credits or entry into prizes, turns customers into content makers. Each entry can be reused as a marketing tool, resulting in an endless cycle of engagement as well as UGC.

What it does: Inspire users to share photos featuring your brand for a chance to win prizes, each participant earning loyalty points in exchange for their participation. Highlight the top UGC images on your Instagram feed, to highlight the members as well as encourage them to sign up.

The reason it works: It is that participants are promoted, sharing their contest entries in order to get votes. Each contest entry can be a reusable marketing resource. Contests for photos are tested loyalty program ideas that work; rewarding participants, rather than just buying, encourages excitement that is fun rather than transactional.

Pro tip: Mix people’s votes to determine an “Fan Favorite” winner with judges’-selected winners in specific categories such as “Most Creative” or “Best Lifestyle Shot.” 

Method 5: Create “Tag Us Tuesdays” Weekly Campaigns

Regular campaigns help build habits. Once customers realize that each Tuesday offers the chance to earn points, participation is made normal.

The way to do it: Start an ongoing campaign each week where participants receive bonus points for including your company in their articles or posts. Regularity builds anticipation, and encourages regular involvement.

What makes it work: Predictable campaigns demand less energy from customers. They know exactly what they need to do and when and eliminate the hassle of making a mental note to be engaged.

Method 6: Offer Exclusive Perks for Member Spotlights

The recognition of a brand’s name is an effective motivational factor. People who are prominently featured on your company’s social media channels feel appreciated and are more committed.

What it does: Highlight customers’ stories, testimonials, or pictures in your Instagram feed or in your stories. Provide bonus points for members who have been selected to be featured. Make an Instagram page that highlights your loyalty members. Share behind-the scenes content, early product previews, or exclusive promotions that give them the impression of the most prestigious members.

The reason it works: 79% of consumers are active in interacting with brands via actions like liking on social media platforms, posting feedback or engaging with brand-related content. Recognition converts followers who are passive to active users.

An example: Lululemon hosted a “Members Weekend” in their fitness studio to the most loyal customers giving them an unforgettable experience with brand-name giveaways. The attendees shared their experiences through Instagram to create buzz, increasing the reach of Lululemon’s brand by sharing genuine UGC.

Method 7: Host Instagram Live Events for Members

Live events provide real-time participation as well as exclusivity. Customers are informed that they can gain points simply for participating, the participation rate increases.

How it works: You can host Instagram Live Q&A as well as product launches or training sessions exclusively for loyal members. You can offer bonus points to those who attend. Participate in polls and ask questions throughout the live session to collect immediate feedback.

The reason it works: It is that live events trigger FOMO (fear of being left out). People who go to the event feel special. People who don’t attend are inspired to attend the next show.

Pro tip: Make a recording of the live event and reuse the footage into Reels. In the comments so that they can be tagged and promote sharing.

Method 8: Implement Milestone Celebrations

Customers would like to be acknowledged as they have earned their trust throughout time. The celebrations that mark milestones honor the bonds and not only individual transactions.

What happens: Mark members’ milestones such as their one-year loyalty anniversary by giving them special announcements, or rewards. Provide random surprises to members who are active on Instagram for a sense of delight and anticipation.

How it works: Random reward triggers dopamine. Since customers are not aware of the time when surprises could be waiting for them, they are in constant engagement, rather than just whenever they need to buy something.

Implementation Tip: Make use of your loyalty statistics to find members who are nearing thresholds. Create automated posts on social media featuring them (with their permission) and then automatically add points bonus to the accounts of those who have reached milestones.

Method 9: Create Experiential Perks for Top Sharers

The most engaged advocates should be able to enjoy perks like private gatherings with the founders, meet-and-greets and early access. These rewards for social shares create feelings of loyalty, and the costs for switching cannot be beat by any discount. In the event that the reward becomes remembered, loyalty increases.

The way it works: Rewards those who are loyal members and share the often with you exclusive opportunities they’ll enjoy. Some examples include private shopping events, meet-and-greets with the founders of the company, early access to new products and invitations to events hosted by brands.

Based on Forrester’s customer value model, the concept of experiential and symbolic value results in the creation of the need for switching expenses that value by itself cannot meet. If a customer has been acknowledged as an advocate of top quality has not left the 5% difference in price.

For example, outdoor brands may give points for sharing pictures of trail cleanups. Beauty companies can offer rewards to customers who recycle empty bottles. What is crucial is to align the reward to your brand’s principles.

Conclusion

Rewards for customers who use social media turns passive interaction into quantifiable economic worth. Give points to followers who follow you in order to build a following of people who are highly engaged. Rewards for tagging and mentions turn customers into content creators. 

Set up hashtag challenges in order to build socially-driven marketing campaigns. Create photo contests that generate top-quality UGC. Set up recurring events such as “Tag Us Tuesdays” to create a habit. Give exclusive perks for member spotlights for the recognition. 

Create Instagram Live events to increase engagement. Honor milestones in order to recognize long-term friendships. Develop perks that are experiential for the prominent advocates in order to create emotional bonds. 

The most effective loyalty program ideas that work by 2026 incorporate social rewards in your retention strategies. Most effective rewards for social shares are transparent, automated and linked to data about customers.

The post 9 Best Ways to Reward Customers for Social Media Follows (2026)  appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

Prioritize Expert Support with a Concierge Pediatrician

You don’t have to rush to overcrowded doctor’s offices or wait hours for a callback. Concierge pediatricians offer parents an amazing source of relief. Giving parents access to personalized, 24/7 medical advice quickly for issues regarding their newborn’s health such as an unusual rash or concerns over feeding schedules. Having a concierge pediatrician on speed dial ensures less unnecessary stress. Investing in this direct support allows parents to stop second-guessing themselves on every decision and receive trusted, immediate guidance, offering immense peace of mind at an economical cost.

Redefine the Night Shift

Newborns don’t come with an instruction manual, but their care requires constant monitoring. Sleeplessness is one of the more taxing parts of parenthood and often fuels anxiety. To combat it, plan shifts that enable both parents (or a combination of caregivers) to rest sufficiently during each night shift. Don’t hesitate to enlist help from nighttime doulas or newborn care specialists, as these professionals can help with feedings, diaper changes, and soothing your baby while giving you some much-needed nights’ sleep. A well-rested parent is an easier parent.

Filter Out the “Advice Overload”

People love giving unsolicited advice to new parents. While some tips might be beneficial, too much information can be overwhelming. Instead of trying to absorb all the advice that is shared with you, find reliable sources for parenting guidance, like books written by pediatric experts or official organizations or direct consultations with healthcare providers as great starting points. Politely tune out conflicting opinions that don’t align with your family values. Focusing on a narrowed pool of reliable resources can drastically decrease decision fatigue.

Practice Self-Care Without Guilt

There’s an assumption that good parenting means sacrificing all personal needs for their baby, but one of the greatest gifts parents can do for their child is taking care of themselves. Set aside some time for showering, exercising, or enjoying quiet coffee. Taking time out for yourself doesn’t count as selfish but as necessary. Mindful exercises such as deep breathing or meditation can help parents rebalance in times of stress. Accepting help from family or friends frees up time for self-care so you have enough emotional energy left over to support your baby.

Conclusion

Parenting a newborn may be challenging, but they don’t need to be anxiety-inducing. With the right tools, resources, and perspectives in place, parents can regain their composure as parents of newcomers. Using concierge pediatricians for expert guidance, creating practical rest schedules, and being selective when accepting advice, small changes can make a big difference. Remember that happy and grounded parents nurture happy and growing babies so don’t stress too much over this incredible chapter in your lives. Enjoy every minute.

The post Life With a Newborn: Stress Less with These Tips appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

Jumonville is located about 50 miles south of Pittsburgh in Pennsylvania’s beautiful Laurel Highlands. With programs for a wide range of ages (including adults!) and interests.

Most programs run Sunday-Friday. They also offer mini camps for 6-8 year olds, multiple programs for youth and adults with cognitive disabilities, as well as events for families to attend together. Find more information about Jumonville Camp & Retreat Center here

The post Camp of the Week: Jumonville Camp & Retreat Center appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

Observe the Worms

Worms are interesting. They move around in the soil while they transport nutrients and minerals from below to the surface, according to National Geographic Kids. They have ringlike segments called annuli, which are covered in setae, or small bristles. 

Want your kids to get an up-close look? Try this observation activity from I’m The Chef Too. 

Worm Observation Stations
Materials:
Clear plastic jar or container (e.g., a large pickle jar)
Layers of soil and sand (alternating light and dark layers)
A few earthworms (gently collected from your garden)
A few small food scraps (e.g., a piece of carrot, apple peel)
Dark paper or cloth to cover the jar

Process:
Layer the soil and sand in the jar, moistening each layer.
Gently place the worms on top. They will soon burrow down.
Add a few small food scraps on the surface.
Cover the outside of the jar with dark paper or cloth. This encourages the worms to tunnel along the edges of the jar, making their movements visible when the cover is removed.
Observe daily, noting new tunnels and how the food scraps diminish.
After a few days of observation, gently return the worms to your garden.

Source: imthecheftoo.com

Have Kids Engage All the Senses

We are typically taught the senses: sight, sound, smell, taste and touch. Take the kids outdoors, at home or to a local park to go on a nature sensory scavenger hunt.

There are plenty of resources online if you want to print sheets so they can mark which sense they found, or you can create your own.

According to a blog from Claire Heffron from InspiredTreehouse.com, she suggests to make it picture perfect and take a photo of each find or make it a group activity, with teams competing against each other. 

Explore the World of Bugs

There are many ways parents and their children can discover nature’s littlest creatures, including going to the local nature center, as many offer hands-on experiences, and reading books at-home. Here are a few to try.

Bug Hotel
by Libby Walden

Welcome to the Bug Hotel, a homemade habitat where creepy crawlies of all shapes and sizes can find a place to stay! Discover how a bug hotel can create a sustainable, safe environment for insects and mini-beasts by exploring each section, lifting the flaps and finding out facts about your favourite garden insects.

STEM Starters for Kids Insects Activity Book: Activities about Bugs and Entomology
by Sam Hutchinson and illustrated by Ste Johnson  

This book includes what insects look like, how they behave, and where they live. Future entomologists will love the mix of non-fiction and activities as they discover how ants build their homes, the different types of wings that exist and, most importantly, what an insect is and what it isn’t!

The post Spring STEM for Kids appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

Most families face the same question at some point. Stay and adjust, or move to something that fits better.

Recognizing When Your Current Home No Longer Works

The first step is being honest about how your current home functions day to day. It is not about square footage alone. It is about how the space is used.

Common signs that a home is no longer working include:

• Lack of storage for growing household needs
• Limited bedroom space as children get older
• No separation between living, working, and sleeping areas
• Increased clutter that cannot be managed with better organization

These issues tend to build over time. Small inconveniences become daily stress points, especially when routines get busier.

Space vs Location Tradeoffs

One of the biggest decisions is choosing between more space and staying in a preferred location. For many families, proximity to schools, childcare, and work matters as much as the home itself.

Moving to a larger home may mean a longer commute or leaving a familiar neighborhood. Staying in place may require making do with less space or investing in renovations.

This tradeoff should be evaluated based on daily impact. A longer commute affects time and energy. Limited space affects comfort and organization. There is no universal answer, but the decision should reflect how the family actually lives.

Financial Planning for a Growing Household

Housing decisions are closely tied to financial stability. A larger home often means higher mortgage payments, property taxes, and maintenance costs.

Families should account for:

• Monthly housing costs including utilities and upkeep
• Future expenses such as childcare, education, and healthcare
• Emergency savings after housing costs are covered

It is easy to focus on what you can afford today. The better approach is to consider how expenses will change over the next few years.

A home that stretches the budget too far can create long-term pressure, even if it solves short-term space issues.

When Selling Becomes the Practical Option

For some families, adapting the current home is not realistic. Layout limitations, zoning restrictions, or rising costs can make staying less practical than moving.

In these cases, timing matters. Selling before conditions become urgent gives more flexibility and better control over the process.

Some homeowners prioritize speed over maximizing sale price, especially when coordinating a move with school schedules or job changes. In situations like this, options to sell a house fast Columbus Ohio can simplify the transition and reduce the stress of managing two properties at once.

The goal is not just to sell. It is to move into a situation that better supports the family’s needs.

Evaluating Layout and Functionality

A larger home does not automatically solve problems if the layout does not work.

Open spaces may look appealing but can create noise and distraction. Separate rooms may provide better structure for families with school-age children.

Consider how different areas will be used:

• Dedicated spaces for homework or remote work
• Common areas for family time that do not interfere with other activities
• Storage that supports daily routines without constant reorganization

Function matters more than size. A well-designed smaller home can work better than a larger one with poor layout.

Planning for Future Needs

A growing family means changing needs. What works for toddlers will not work for teenagers.

Think beyond immediate requirements. Consider how the home will function in five to ten years.

This includes:

• Bedroom flexibility for growing children
• Outdoor space for activities
• Proximity to schools and community resources

Planning ahead reduces the need for another move in the near future. It also helps avoid short-term decisions that create long-term inconvenience.

Managing the Transition

Moving is not just a financial decision. It affects routines, schools, and social connections.

Preparation helps reduce disruption. This includes organizing belongings, planning timelines, and coordinating with schools or childcare providers.

Families should also consider the emotional side. Children may need time to adjust to a new environment. Keeping routines consistent during the transition helps maintain stability.

Clear communication about the move and what to expect can make the process easier for everyone involved.

Balancing Practical Needs With Lifestyle

At the core, housing decisions come down to how a family wants to live.

Some families prioritize space and privacy. Others focus on location and access to community resources. Neither approach is wrong, but the decision should align with daily priorities.

A home should support routines, reduce stress, and provide enough flexibility to handle change. It does not need to be perfect. It needs to work consistently.

Making a well-informed decision now can prevent repeated moves and ongoing adjustments later.

The post Making Big Home Decisions as a Growing Family appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

The Financial Logic of Shorter Healthcare Tracks

A traditional four-year public university degree now averages nearly $38,000 in tuition alone, often leading to significant student debt that can take decades to repay. In contrast, vocational healthcare certificates and diplomas typically cost between $3,800 and $16,000. This dramatic price difference allows students to enter the workforce with a significantly higher return on investment from day one.

Shorter programs allow students to bypass general education requirements like advanced calculus or creative writing, focusing instead on the specific clinical and administrative skills required for the job. By entering the workforce two to three years earlier than their university peers, these graduates gain a massive head start on earning potential. This early entry enables immediate wealth-building rather than debt accumulation during the most critical years of financial growth.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that approximately 1.9 million healthcare openings are projected annually through 2034. This demand is driven largely by the fact that 23% of the U.S. population is expected to be 65 or older by 2054. As a result, the healthcare industry is increasingly looking toward specialized training centers to fill these gaps quickly and effectively.

High-Demand Roles You Can Start Now

The shift toward outpatient care centers and specialized diagnostic facilities has created a surge in demand for technical roles that do not require a bachelor’s degree. These positions offer a blend of patient interaction and technical proficiency, often starting with salaries that rival or exceed those of general liberal arts degree holders.

• Medical Assistants handle both clinical and administrative tasks and can often complete their training in as little as 12 months
• Cardiac Medical Technicians can see salaries reaching over $130,000, depending on their specific certifications and location
• Radiation Therapists represent another high-earning path with median salaries often exceeding $101,000 with just an associate degree

Focused healthcare education, including comprehensive medical diploma programs, is helping bridge this gap, with  specialized limited scope radiologic technology training as one example of how students gain the technical foundation needed for diagnostic imaging and clinical support roles. This type of focused education ensures that graduates are not just entering the workforce; they are entering it with a highly marketable, specific skill set that employers currently struggle to find. By focusing on diagnostic support, students position themselves at the heart of modern medical decision-making.

Identifying Quality in Vocational Programs

Not all certificates are created equal, and families must be diligent when evaluating where to invest their time and money. The most critical factor is accreditation, which ensures the curriculum meets national standards and qualifies students for mandatory certification exams. Without proper accreditation, a diploma may not be recognized by major hospital systems or insurance providers.

As well as planning to support students as they gear up for their next step on the career ladder, parents should look for programs that offer robust job placement support and integrated clinical rotations. These hands-on experiences are where the real learning happens, allowing students to apply classroom knowledge to real patients in a supervised environment. Programs that maintain strong relationships with local clinics often have much higher employment rates for their graduates.

Furthermore, reviewing a school’s “gainful employment” data is essential. This data tracks how much graduates earn relative to the debt they took on to complete the program. High-quality vocational schools are transparent about these outcomes because their success is directly tied to their students’ career success.

Finding Your Path in Modern Medicine

The healthcare landscape is evolving rapidly, and the demand for skilled technicians is only increasing as technology becomes more integrated into patient care. Choosing a vocational path is a strategic decision to focus on expertise rather than generalities. For more insights into how to help your child get on a career track that’s rewarding and financially justifiable, check out the other guides on our site.

The post Healthcare Careers Without the Four-Year Degree: Smart Paths for Today’s Students appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

“We proudly support the people we serve,” says Amber C. Gibbs, Superintendent & CEO of Cuyahoga DD. “To support them by partnering with CIFF on their 50th anniversary — it’s an incredible opportunity for all.”

The”Relaxed Family-Friendly Screening”, held at Playhouse Square’s Allen Theater, was for two films, “Stick Man and Room on the Broom, Tabby McTat” and “The Gruffalo, The Snail and the Whale, Tabby McTat.” 

A calming space for attendees was set up in the lobby. The Cuyahoga DD staff and volunteers were also on hand to help and provided travel-size sensory kits for families to be used during the Relaxed Screening. Each sensory kit included calming tools to manage overstimulation and engaging items for focus and enjoyment, and was packed in an accessible bag for on-the-go support.

The screenings also featured:
ASL interpretation
Assistive listening devices
Fidget and noise-cancelling headphones available
House lights in the theater are left on low
Lower sound level or advance notice for startling or loud sounds
Judgement-free zone

Guests were free to talk, leave their seats and move freely during the performance and doors to the theater were left open.

For more sensory-friendly events, visit cuyahogadd.org. Also Playhouse Square provides sensory-friendly programming for all ages and abilities. For more about offerings, visit their accessibility information.  If you missed this year’s film festival, find movies through the streams at https://www.clevelandfilm.org/festival/streaming/#films through April 26.                                                                                  

The post Cleveland International Film Festival and Cuyahoga DD Partnered for ‘Relaxed Screening’ appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

Who can attend?
The event supports transition‑aged youth with disabilities and their families who want to connect with organizations that provide essential life skills training, employment, recreation, and independent‑living resource. It welcomes individuals with disabilities, families and caregivers, students and professionals.

With more than 75 vendors expected at the Expo, here are the topics of interest:
Adaptive Sports; Advocacy: Skills Training, After School Programs;  Art: Programs, Therapy;  Career: Development, Planning, Counseling; College Experience; Community Connections;  Counseling Services; Day Programs for Adults; Direct Care Support; Employment Services; Financial Planning; Fitness; Group Homes; In-Home Care; Independent Living Support;  Jobs: Skill Training, Readiness, Assistance; Life Skills Training;  Music: Programs Therapy;  Recreation Therapy; Recreational Activities; Respite Care; Shared Living; Social Opportunities; Social Skills Group; Speech Therapy; Summer Camp Options; Supported Living;  TBS Services; Transition Services; Transportation; Tutoring; Vocational Training and Voting.

What activities should I know about?
This year’s Expo will feature On My Way, a panel discussion at 12 p.m. highlighting the lived experiences of youth and adults with disabilities as they navigate adulthood.

is there a cost to attend?
No, this event is free to the public.

How do I park?
There is free and accessible public parking.

What will be the Transition Expo environment be like for attendees and their families?
The event can get loud and sometimes crowded, so plan accordingly. There will be a sensory friendly room off of the main room with calming activities available.

Will there be a sensory room?
Yes, there will be a sensory-friendly room off of the main room with calming activities available. 

Will lunch be provided?
Boxed lunches provided to audience members (while supplies last).

Will there be a Universal Changing Table at the event?
Yes, there will is a permanent one at the family.

How do I prepare myself for a visit to the Transition Exp?
We have a social story and pictures to help prepare you or your family member to visit the Expo. See link here.

Visit livespecial.com for more information. 

The post ‘Before You Go’ Checklist for the 2026 Transition Expo on Saturday, April 25 appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

1. Decide Where You’re Going

First of all, in order to get things underway, you need to make sure that you know where you’re going. If you’re doing this because you got a job opportunity, then maybe the location has already been decided for you. However, if you love the idea of moving or having a fresh start, then you need to begin by working out where that might be. It’s important to come up with a shortlist of locations to begin with before you make the final decision.

2. Do Your Research

When you have an idea of where you’d like to go, you then need to make sure that you’re doing your research. Choosing a neighborhood can be tough, so you need to get it right. Not only does this mean that you need to research different states, cities, and towns online, but you also need to head out there and get a feel for them. Moving to a new place that you’ve never even seen before could be a huge risk!

3. Find the Perfect Property

When you think you’re set on a location, the next thing that you need to do here is make sure that you’re looking at places to live. Finding the right property can take a while, but you’ll often know when something feels right and meets your needs. With that in mind, you then also need to seek out expert companies like Southside Moving and Storage professional movers to help you get from your current home to the new state. Having experienced movers for your relocation can take a lot of the stress out of it.

4. Secure Great Schools

The next step is to make sure that you’re finding schools for your children. Picking a great school can also be tough, but it doesn’t have to be a disaster. In fact, you may even choose a specific neighborhood or area based on the schools. This will often make the process a lot easier for you.

5. Choose Great Companies to Work For

Alongside that, you also need to make sure that there are great companies nearby, too. Again, if you aren’t moving for work, then you really do need to make sure that you’re applying to companies that you want to work for and that will be able to provide you with the salary and benefits you’re looking for.

6. Wrap Up Everything at Home

However, alongside making sure that you’re getting everything in line in the new state, you also need to take care of a bunch of stuff at home too! When it comes to moving across the country like this, there’s a lot that you need to tie up at home. Not only do you need to make sure that your home sells, but you may also need to sell or donate items from your home or put them into storage. Things like getting your medical records in line, finishing up with work, and even saying goodbye to friends and family are important here.

7. Enjoy a Smooth Move

When everything is all in line and you’re ready to go, the next thing you need to do is make sure that the move goes smoothly. Whether you’re driving across the country or flying, you want to make sure that all of your stuff arrives on time and that you’re there to welcome it. You also want to make sure that you’re getting settled in on moving day and getting the essentials set up in your new home. Moving can also stir up a range of emotions, but when you have a long journey as part of that, it can do so even more so! So just bear in mind that things might feel emotional for you.

8. Get to Know Your New Neighborhood

Even though you may have a lot to unpack and you might want to get a head start on it, you also need to make sure that you’re getting out and exploring your new neighborhood. Even though you will have been doing this during your research, now it’s time to explore for real. You want to acquaint yourself with your new hometown and find all your new favourites. Doing so will help you to start making a new life for yourself and help you to fit in.

9. Make Friends

Alongside that, you may also want to start making some new friends too. Making friends as adults can feel really tough, but there are ways to do it. From joining new classes locally to talking to other parents at your children’s school to being sociable at work, you will find a new way to do it that works best for you. Even striking up a conversation with your new neighbours can be great. Your children may want to do this with any locals too. Here, it’s all about trying to immerse yourself in your new life as quickly as possible.

10. Settle into a New Rhythm and Routine

With that in mind, you also want to make sure that you’re settling into a new rhythm of life as soon as you can. Creating a new life in a new state can feel strange or unsettling, but it also gets to be exciting too! Before long, things won’t feel new anymore either! Instead, you’ll have a new routine in place and things will feel like they’ve always been that way. When you know that you really want this to work and you throw yourself into the process, you may even wonder why you didn’t do it sooner!

The post 10 Steps to Creating a New Life in Another State appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

The leap from middle school to high school can feel daunting for any family. When your child navigates the world with unique learning and social needs, that transition can feel especially overwhelming for the child and their family. The key to a smoother transition isn’t just preparing for a new academic workload; it’s about fostering the social-emotional well-being that allows them to put their best foot forward in a new environment.

Executive Functioning Skills: Think of these as the mental toolkit your child uses to manage their day. Because some of the biggest gaps in middle school appear in executive functioning, focus on creating good habits in the following areas:

• Organization: Developing a simple, reliable system for lockers, school supplies, and digital files so they don’t lose their hard work.
• Task Initiation: Approaching projects with confidence and knowing how to take that first small step.
• Time Management: Learning how to track deadlines and arriving at class with the right tools in hand.
• Following Directions: Feeling confident enough to follow a series of instructions with minimal prompting.

Meeting Them Where They Are: Gaps are expected for middle schoolers. Being observant and supportive in areas like working memory or emotional regulation is vital for high school prep. You may notice your child works hard on an assignment only to forget to hit “submit,” or they might exhibit frustration if a project seems too large.

Small Steps That Make a Big Difference:

• Visual Anchors: Use checklists or micro-schedules on a desk or whiteboard. These act as an “external brain,” taking the pressure off their working memory.
• Daily Rhythms: Build in time each day to get ready for the tasks ahead. Start each morning with two minutes to check their bookbag for completed assignments, school supplies, and even their lunch or snack. When this becomes a habit, it stops feeling like a chore.
• Low-Stakes Practice: Give kids the chance to try new things in a safe, supportive environment where it’s okay to make a mistake. This builds the muscle memory they’ll need for high school.

Supporting the Heart and Mind: High school is just as much about social navigation as it is about biology or algebra. For a student who feels anxious or struggles with social cues, learning to manage their feelings is the foundation for everything else. We like to remind our students that all feelings are valid. The goal is simply to help them find a reaction that is appropriate and helps them feel connected to their peers.

How to Encourage Growth at Home and School:

• Practice: Role-play simple moments, such as how to ask a teacher for a quiet place to work or how to join a group at lunch.
• Find Their Tribe: Encourage participation in clubs, sports, or local social groups where they can practice social skills while doing something they enjoy.
• Validate the Effort: Acknowledge how much energy it takes for them to stay organized and regulated. A little bit of encouragement goes a long way in building their self-advocacy.

The goal isn’t perfection; it’s progress. It is important to be flexible and find what works best for your specific child. Progress is progress, no matter how small the step. Remember, the transition to high school is a marathon, not a sprint. By focusing on these small, daily wins in middle school, we aren’t just preparing them for a new building, we’re giving them the tools to be their own best advocates for their future.

The post Helping Your Middle Schooler Feel High School-Ready: What to Prioritize for the Educational Transition appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

“Around 15 months, I would say, she just completely stopped talking. No more mama, no more dada, even basic words,” said Dani’s mom, Jackie.

Jackie said she and her husband thought it was just a phase, but then they started to notice some other concerns.

“She would kind of stare off. She wouldn’t look at anybody,” Jackie recalls.

Dani was eventually diagnosed with autism and has been in applied behavioral analysis therapy at Cleveland Clinic Children’s ever since.

“With ABA, we use prompting and reinforcement to help teach children ways to manage more challenging behavior, improve communication, and help them build independence,” explained Chiara Graver, MS, behavior analyst at Cleveland Clinic Children’s.

Graver said it’s remarkable to see how far the four-year-old has come.

“Dani has a strong foundation for those early academic skills: letters, numbers, handwriting. She loves art, drawing, and playing. She has made progress from this quiet little girl who maybe couldn’t manage some harder feelings to a social butterfly,” Graver says.

Jackie said they are grateful for all the help and cherish their daily chats with Dani.

“Some people complain that they’re kids are always talking, but I have a different feeling about that — when your kid goes from saying mom to not at all,” said Jackie. “So, we just hoped every day for her to talk again, and we’re there.”

 — Source: Cleveland Clinic Newsroom, my.clevelandclinic.org

The post Local Family Shares Experience with Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) Therapy appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

Stop by for a day of free, fun-filled interactive activities and create memorable moments as kids meet their favorite superheroes and princesses, and don’t forget to dress up! Families can enjoy giveaways, a variety of kids’ activities, special meet-and-greets with beloved characters, and the splash pad will also be open for the season, adding even more summer fun to the day.

Register Now!

This event marks the first of four in the Crocker Kids summer event series, with additional events taking place on Tuesdays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the following dates:

• May 26 – Dress-Up! Superhero & Princess Day
• June 23 – Talent Show
• July 21 – Water Party Fun
• Saturday, August 8 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. – Back to School Bash

Children will have the opportunity to enjoy an unforgettable day meeting, interacting with, and taking photos with their favorite superheroes and princesses. Special guests are sure to include favorites like Spider-Gwen and Princess Moana. Guests can also enjoy an interactive storytime featuring dancing and singing, bringing stories to life through movement with Halle Bo Bally.

Families can join in on the fun, too! Enjoy free glitter tattoos, bounce houses, vendor tables, giveaways, and more. Kids can take part in hands-on activities while parents connect with local businesses and community resources, from summer camps to educational programs, making this an event with so much to offer.

This free event is open to all families, and registration is easy! By registering, you’ll also have a chance to win exciting prizes. Register and attend any of our May or June Summer Events, for a chance to win a family four-pack of tickets to The Lion King at Playhouse Square this July!

Additional prizes include a family four-pack to an Akron RubberDucks game, tickets to the Greater Cleveland Aquarium, African Safari Wildlife Park, and more.

We are so excited to welcome families to Crocker Kids for an unforgettable day of fun, imagination, and connection. Come dressed up, bring your family, and enjoy a magical experience you won’t want to miss!

The post A Magical Day Awaits at Crocker Kids: Dress-Up Superhero & Princess Day appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

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Did you know your child can learn to sail or row this summer, without owning a boat or having any prior experience?

Right here in Northeast Ohio, there’s a place where kids can get on the water, build confidence, and learn lifelong skills in a safe, supportive environment.

That place is The Cleveland Foundry Community Rowing and Sailing Center.

The Foundry is Cleveland’s community rowing and sailing center, a local nonprofit serving Greater Cleveland youth since 2017. Located in the Flats on Columbus Road along the Cuyahoga River, with sailing operations at the Historic Coast Guard Station off Wendy Park, The Foundry is on a mission to make these sports accessible to every kid, regardless of background or experience level.

And this year, they’re expanding even further with the opening of the brand-new Patrick S. Parker Community Sailing Center, bringing unprecedented public access to

sailing on Lake Erie to all of Northeast Ohio.

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You may think that getting on the water requires owning a boat or belonging to a private club. For families who aren’t already comfortable around water, it can feel even further out of reach. In reality, programs like those at The Foundry are designed to be accessible, beginner-friendly, and welcoming to kids of all backgrounds and skill levels, pairing the excitement of rowing and sailing with hands-on STEM education that connects students to science, the environment, and future career opportunities.

The Numbers Speak for Themselves

In 2025 alone, The Foundry engaged 521 students in on-water programming, reaching youth from 98 different schools, 78 cities, and 63 zip codes across Northeast Ohio.

 Summer Programs for Every Age and Skill Level

Whether your child is brand new to the water or a high schooler ready to build advanced skills, The Foundry has a program designed for them. Kids gain confidence, learn teamwork, and spend their days active and outdoors guided by experienced instructors in a safe, supportive environment.

Explore Sailing Camps for rising 3rd through 8th graders, running Monday through Thursday from 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM out of the Historic Coast Guard Station. Campers learn to sail at beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels under the guidance of certified US Sailing coaches, with a strong focus on safety, skill-building, and fun.

Sailing Clinics for rising 9th–12th graders on July 10th run out of the Historic Coast Guard Station. Students sail in two-person E420 boats, the same boats used in high school interscholastic racing, while learning essentials like points of sail, boat parts, steering with a tiller, sail trim, and more.

On the rowing side, The Foundry’s recreational rowing programs give young athletes the opportunity to get out on the Cuyahoga

River, build fitness, and discover the sport in a welcoming, no-pressure environment.

For students who face financial barriers, Row. Sail. Dream. provides introductory programming for 6th through 12th graders from public school districts across the county, combining water sports with STEM education and real exposure to scholarship and career opportunities.

Sign Up Today

Summer spots fill quickly and programs are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit clevelandfoundry.org/summer-programs to explore available options and register your child.

Give them a summer they’ll never forget, building confidence, friendships, and skills that last far beyond the water.

Financial assistance is available for qualifying families.

The post Your Child Doesn’t Need a Boat to Get on the Water This Summer appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

But is that actually true?

“Birth order is just one piece of the puzzle,” says Susan Albers, PsyD, psychologist at Cleveland Clinic. “The development of personality is a complex mix of genetics, parenting style and your environment.”

 Albers adds while birth order doesn’t define an individual, there are personality traits that seem to be common among each of the groups.

For example, first born children tend to be leaders, successful, and perfectionistic, while middle children are natural negotiators.

They are highly adaptive because they know how to navigate between siblings.

The youngest are often creative, risk takers and may even be more relaxed due to their environment.

“It is helpful for parents to understand birth order theory because it helps them to be more mindful of the unconscious ways in which they may have different expectations for their children or allocate attention,” Albers says. “It’s a reminder that each child is an individual, not just a role that they play in the family.”

So, what about only children?

Albers said they are usually a lot like first born children when it comes to maturity and independence.

— Cleveland Clinic Daily Health Stories, my.clevelandclinic.org

The post Does Birth Order Play A Role With Personality? appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

In 2026, most people have vast amounts of personal data online. Social media has greatly increased the everyday person’s digital footprint, and given that most shop extensively online, participate in regular file sharing between friends and family, and conduct their banking through digital applications, there’s a greater need for security than ever before. 

As a response, VPNs have become much more mainstream; a quick search online will show you that there are thousands of options available. Although this is great to see, it’s important to be aware that not all packages are created equal. There’s a huge gulf between a poor VPN and a great one, and it can be difficult to tell the two apart. 

In today’s review, you’ll gain insight into Mysterium VPN, one of the most popular options on the market at the moment. But does it truly offer what you need to stay safe in the modern age? Or is it another forgettable package that barely scratches the surface? Read on to find out.

What Makes Mysterium Stand Out?

Mysterium’s main selling point is that it uses a decentralized network for sourcing IPs for you to connect to. This isn’t to be confused with a decentralized VPN, which uses other VPN users to make the connection (introducing inherent security risks). Instead, Mysterium uses its own entirely separate ecosystem for gathering IPs, meaning you get the benefit of decentralization without the downsides. 

Their method enables a shift in focus away from data center IPs and towards residential IPs, which makes for greater flexibility in what a VPN can do for you. Traditionally, a private network service like this would lead to a more broken or fragmented user experience, because many major websites and streaming services restrict usage and block access once a data center VPN is flagged. With Mysterium’s way, however, your activity appears much more like a regular user to these sites, meaning you won’t run into issues like this anywhere near as much. The only drawback here is that understanding the workings of residential IPs may take a little getting used to if you’re only familiar with traditional models, but you’ll quickly get up to speed. 

Practical Benefits for Everyday Users

Beyond the major benefit of connecting to residential IPs, there are many other reasons you might want to choose Mysterium VPN. 

Firstly, the company is very liberal with their connectivity options. Many of the top providers only allow up to 5 users to connect simultaneously, whereas with Mysterium, you’re allowed up to 15. This is great if you live in a large household and don’t have the budget for everyone to have an account, and it’s also beneficial for those running a business. 

Of course, it’s important to address price. For many years, VPNs were simply out of budget for the average person, making something that should be a necessity into an unaffordable luxury. Mysterium’s pricing starts at $2.59/month, making for up to 82% savings, which feels very reasonable for what you’re getting. 

The company is also a member of the i2Coalition – an organization that seeks to ensure developers have a say in the creation of policy – as well as the VPN Trust Initiative. It’s nice to know that the service you’re entrusting your internet activity to has the consumer’s best interest at heart. 

Network Coverage and Performance

Network coverage and performance are essential components of any functioning VPN, as a poor connection will make even the most basic tasks a chore.

You’ll have coverage for over 100 countries with this VPN, meaning that if you find one, two, three, or more connections to be unstable for your needs, you’ll always be able to find an option that works flawlessly. Given support for foundational protocols like OpenVPN and WireGuard, Mysterium also offers great upload and download speeds. These speeds are supported by extensions for the most popular browsers, too, and the platform works with all major operating systems (though Linux users will have to wait for the time being). 

Another nice feature is having DNS and IP leak protection to ensure your data never gets into the wrong hands, and going a step further is the company’s kill switch feature, which means that if your connection drops for whatever reason (which is when you’re most vulnerable), the VPN cuts immediately. 

Pros and Cons

You should now have a good idea of what Mysterium is all about. Here are the pros and cons concisely reiterated so that you have a clear picture.  

Pros

A bespoke ecosystem: The most interesting thing about Mysterium VPN is its bespoke ecosystem. You get the best of both worlds, experiencing the benefits of decentralized VPN usage without the risk to your security. 

Extensive multi-device support: If you need to use a large number of devices with your VPN, or simply want the flexibility in case you need to in the future, Mysterium’s support for up to 15 simultaneous devices should serve you very well. 

A privacy-first approach: Mysterium VPN is very fast, but thankfully, it doesn’t compromise on privacy to facilitate that speed. DNS and IP leak protection, along with the kill switch function, make for a water-tight system. 

Cons

No Linux support yet: While Linux support is in the pipeline and set to be available soon, for now, you’ll have to choose another VPN. 

User Interface might take some time to learn: It’s a little different than what you’ll be used to in some ways.

Possibility of minor connection issues: Sometimes, small blips can occur when connecting to nodes with this sort of framework, but these are relatively uncommon. 

The Verdict

For most people, Mysterium is exactly what’s needed to ensure you have a fast, safe, and reliable anonymous browsing experience. While it’s not perfect, no system truly is, and this platform gets enough things right with the strong balance it strikes to be a serious contender.

The post Digital Safety Made Easy: Is Mysterium the Right VPN for Your Home? appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

MONDAYS

Adapted Sports Nights. Individuals with disabilities throw mini javelins & softballs, run the obstacle course, kick soccer balls and more. Through 5/18. 5:30-6:30 p.m. Lake Metroparks Farmpark, 8800 Euclid Chardon Road, Kirtland,  lakemetroparks.com

Sensory Cinema. A theater environment for guests with sensory processing challenges and their families. 6/22-7/27. 6:30 p.m. Canton Palace Theatre, 605 Market Ave. N., Canton, cantonpalacetheatre.org

THURSDAYS

Growing and Grounded. Learn grounding skills through expressive arts, gain self-awareness, develop coping skills, and learn how to navigate challenges. Ages 7-11. Fairmount Center for the Arts, 8400 Fairmount Road, Novelty, fairmountcenter.org

SATURDAYS
Friendship Club. Judgment-free social opportunity where caregivers and children with autism connect. 2nd and 4th Saturdays. Ages 7-12. 10:30 a.m. Autism Society of Greater Akron, 2858 W. Market St., autismakron.org

Sensory-Friendly Saturdays. Every 3rd Saturday, enjoy adapted events to meet diverse sensory-processing needs. 9-10 a.m. The Cleveland Museum of Art, 11150 East Blvd., clevelandart.org

May 21 through August 5

Adapted Horseback Riding. Learn horsemanship and riding skills in an environment tailored to each child’s specific needs, goals and learning styles. Camp Cheerful, 15000 Cheerful Lane, Strongsville, campcheerful.achievementcenters.org

May 23

Inclusive Creative Movement Workshop. A fun, inclusive creative movement and dance class for ages 5-8. 10:30-11 a.m. Reed Memorial Library, 167 E. Main St., Ravenna, reedlibrary.org

May 30

P.A.L.S. Sensory Friendly Movie: How to Train Your Dragon. The sound is lower, the lights are brighter and talking is acceptable. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Parma-Snow Branch Library, 2121 Snow Road, cuyahogalibrary.org

SuperKids Classic All Inclusive Soapbox Derby Race. Children of all abilities can race gravity-powered cars. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Derby Downs, 789 Derby Downs Drive, Akron, superkidsohio.org/racers

Through May 18

Adapted Sports Nights. Individuals with disabilities will throw mini javelins & softballs, run the obstacle course, kick soccer balls and more. Mondays 5:30-6:30 p.m. Lake Metroparks Farmpark, 8800 Euclid Chardon Road, Kirtland, lakemetroparks.com

June 7

Sensory-Friendly Hours. A calmer, low-stimulation museum experience with reduced noise, lighting and crowds. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, 1100 Rock & Roll Blvd., Cleveland, rockhall.com

June 8 through August 14
Creative Living Unlimited: Life Steps. A unique educational day camp with a therapeutic component designed for children (ages 8+) and adults with cognitive and functional disabilities. Creative Therapy Ranch, 5200 Lake Road, Medina, mcbdd.org

Want your event or resource added to this list? Email angela@northeastohioparent.com 

The post Sensory-Friendly and Inclusive Events for Kids & Teens in Northeast Ohio appeared first on Northeast Ohio Parent.

Here, we break down the best pet insurance options available to Ohio residents in 2026. We have analyzed the top providers, comparing their coverage, pricing, customer experience, and claims processes to help you make an informed decision.

What is pet insurance and why do Ohio pet parents need it?

Pet insurance functions similarly to human health insurance, but it is specifically designed for your pets. It helps cover the costs of unexpected veterinary bills resulting from accidents, illnesses, and sometimes routine care, depending on the policy you choose.

For Ohio pet parents, the need for pet insurance is clear. The state experiences a range of weather conditions, from hot, humid summers to freezing winters, which can expose pets to various risks. Additionally, urban environments like Cincinnati and rural areas alike present unique hazards, from traffic accidents to encounters with wildlife.

A robust pet insurance policy provides financial protection, ensuring that you can make medical decisions based on your pet’s care needs rather than the cost of treatment. It prevents you from having to drain your savings for major vet bills, offering peace of mind when the unexpected happens.

Best pet insurance in Ohio summary

Before we explore the detailed reviews, here is a quick summary of our top picks for the best pet insurance in Ohio.