It might sound too good to be true, but your adoration for ‘man’s best friend’ could open the door to an amazing opportunity for helping people.

Your family could be the key to providing a well-loved and socialized puppy to veterans and children who need them.

4 Paws for Ability places task-trained service dogs for children and veterans with disabilities. Our mission would not be possible without the help of families who are willing to foster and socialize our dogs in the early stages of their development.

4 Paws for Ability is a growing nonprofit located in Xenia and is in need of more families willing to foster service dogs in training. Families can foster dogs with ages that range from eight weeks old to two years old. Your primary responsibility would be to socialize our service dogs in training in public and at home.

Because the majority of our service dogs are placed with children, families with children are particularly well-suited to provide basic training and essential socialization. Children and youth volunteers learn about the responsibility of raising a confident, well-trained dog and the impact their work will have on another child or veteran with disabilities.

We are committed to providing all volunteer trainers with regular training, as well as free medical care and supplies for your service dog in training. Service dogs in training typically return to 4 Paws for Ability at around one to two years old to begin their task-training for a specific child or veteran with disabilities.

You can learn more or submit an application to volunteer by visiting  https://4pawsforability.org/puppy-trainer/.

Contact KaLynn Clark at [email protected].

The post 4 Paws for Ability appeared first on Dayton Parent Magazine.

Five Rivers MetroParks is accepting nominations for its sixth annual OUTStanding Teacher Award, open to Dayton-area classroom educators who teach any subject from pre-K through high school. Nominations are due Jan 31, 2021.

A winner will be selected from each of the following categories:

• Rising Star (less than 10 years of teaching experience)
• Leader (10 to 20 years of teaching experience)
• Lifetime Achievement (more than 20 years of teaching experience)

“During these unprecedented times, nature is integral for mental and physical wellness, and also a perfect venue for students to safely learn about the natural world,” said MetroParks education coordinator Joshua York. “Whether some teachers have pivoted to incorporate more outdoors time in their classroom or have always utilized nature in their curriculum, educators who connect children to the outdoors deserve special recognition.”

Awardees will be announced and celebrated in a virtual format this spring. Winning teachers will also receive an award package containing:

• Outdoor educational materials to assist in connecting students to the environment
• Plant kit with plants selected for the winning teacher’s school
• EECO (Environmental Education Council of Ohio) membership and money to use toward the 101 Conference at Camp Kern, held annually the first weekend of October
• A one-year membership to the James M. Cox, Jr. Arboretum Foundation and transportation for their class for a field trip to Cox Arboretum MetroPark (or an alternative experience if an in-person field trip is not an option)

Funded through the James M. Cox Jr. Arboretum Foundation, the award is for teachers providing students with outdoor, environmental experiences that inspire an interest in and positive attitudes about nature.

“Research has shown that kids who spend time in nature are happier, healthier and smarter, and so it’s important to celebrate teachers who utilize the outdoors as an education resource,” York said.

This photo was taken prior to the pandemic and does not reflect current best practices for COVID-19. Visit metroparks.org to learn how to stay safe while using your parks and trails.

Anyone can nominate a teacher by writing a short essay or producing a video (less than five minutes long) that answers the following:

• Why do you feel this teacher is deserving of the OUTstanding Teacher Award?
• In what ways does this teacher get students outside during the school day?
• In what ways does this teacher weave nature into the curriculum?
• Does this teacher get students outdoors after typical school hours? Please provide specifics about what the teacher does.
• What are the most significant positive impacts the nominee has made on other teachers and the school community?
• How does your candidate go above and beyond leading his/her students in outdoor experiences? Please provide specific examples of what the teacher does.
• How does this teacher utilize outdoor space at the school? Has he/she created or enhanced a green school yard?
• Why are you nominating this person?

Additionally, award submissions should include two photos of the teacher that capture the great work he/she is doing getting kids outside and bringing nature into the curriculum and classroom.

Teachers can self-nominate. Nominations can be submitted by completing an online form and either posting a video to YouTube or uploading the written essay. Information on judging criteria can be found online at metroparks.org/outstanding. Videos do not have to be professionally produced, as the content of the message is what will be judged. Please be as specific as possible in your nomination, so judges have a clear understanding of the amazing work and the impact of your award nominee.

Community volunteers with a background in outdoor education will judge the awards. Five Rivers MetroParks employees and board members of the James M. Cox Jr. Foundation, Wegerzyn Gardens Foundation and Five Rivers MetroParks Foundation and their immediate families are not eligible.

The post OUTstanding Teacher Awards From Five Rivers MetroParks appeared first on Dayton Parent Magazine.

2021 is looking bright for so many reasons — not least of all, the Cincinnati Zoo’s Penguin Parade!

The Cincinnati Zoo may have fallen off your radar after the Festival of Lights — but it shouldn’t. Going to the Zoo when it’s cold is magical — you see lots of animals that you wouldn’t normally get to see. Bears! Big cats! And penguins. Lots of penguins.

In fact, these little tuxedo-clad creatures are the stars of the show in the winter during Penguin Days at the Cincinnati Zoo.

On Saturdays and Sundays through March 12, check out the Cincinnati Zoo’s Penguin Parade, which happens at 11 am as long as temps fall below 50 degrees. You’ll delight as the Zoo’s colony of King Penguins waddles in perfect formation between the Wings of Wonder and Children’s Zoo. It’s truly a sight to behold. Note there are special walks on MLK Day (Jan. 18) and Presidents’ Day (Feb. 15).

To see this parade in person is pure magic. You’ll admire these adorable animals up close and their signature waddle will surely make you smile. The Penguin Parade is the most delightful thing  you’ll see this winter and a definite reason to bundle up and pay a visit to the Zoo!

In addition, penguin encounters with Rockhopper and Magellanic penguins will take place on each non-holiday Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday at 11 am.

As an added incentive to visit the Zoo this winter, every day from Jan. 18-March 12, enjoy discounted admission in honor of these cold-weather creatures. Discounts vary by day. Find more information on Penguin Days tickets, as well as the Zoo’s COVID-19 safety procedures and guidelines, here.

And of course, be sure to check the calendar for winter-weather animal encounters before you go. Penguin Days features a variety of seasonal activities you won’t get any other time of the year.

Penguin Days are happening now through March 12 at the Cincinnati Zoo.

The post The Cincinnati Zoo’s Penguin Parade appeared first on Dayton Parent Magazine.

Five Rivers MetroParks’ parks and conservation team will work with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) to collect 450 used holiday trees for important conservation projects in local state parks.

Trees can be dropped off at Eastwood MetroPark, 1401 Harshman Road, from December 26th through December 31st and January 2nd through January 31st. The park will be closed on the 1st.

Trees should be free of decorations, paint and artificial snow and those dropping off trees should follow CDC guidelines, especially as it pertains to social distancing and wearing face masks.

Once collected, ODNR will bundle the trees and sink them into lakes to help foster aquatic habitats, which has proved to be successful.

“I can say from personal experience and from talking to countless anglers that these trees provide quality angling opportunities in our public bodies of water,” said Michael Porto, ODNR fisheries biologist. “They give novice and experienced anglers alike someplace specific they can expect to catch fish. ODNR completed a tree-sinking project at Cowan Lake State Park last year, and the results have been very popular.”

Five Rivers MetroParks and ODNR participated in a similar conservation project in early 2019, when MetroParks’ parks and conservation staff and volunteers and ODNR sunk nearly 750 trees into Eastwood Lake. The results of that project also have been successful, improving Eastwood Lake’s aquatic habitat and opportunities for anglers.

If you have any questions about this project, please contact MetroParks community engagement coordinator, Lauren Lemons at 937-275-PARK or [email protected]

The post Donate Holiday Trees for State Parks Conservation Projects appeared first on Dayton Parent Magazine.

Tour the dazzling garden of lights, reflect on the true meaning of the season at the live nativity, and more during our free annual ChristmasTown at Creation Museum event to celebrate Christmas in Cincinnati/NKY. Enjoy all this for only the cost of parking. the experience is FREE!

ChristmasTown at Creation Museum runs every night from 5:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., November 27 through December 30, 2020, in addition to the museum’s regular hours from 10:00 a.m. Closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

What to see?

You can stroll through the museum’s botanical gardens amid the breathtaking display of thousands of multi-colored lights. Each year, we add new designs and more color throughout the garden trails, so your experience is never the same!

Photo Credit: Creation Museum

Kids of all ages love the petting zoo, designed to give guests a hands-on experience with God’s amazing creatures. Complete the evening with a ride on our friendly camels.

Photo Credit: Creation Museum

Zip Lines

Get a bird’s-eye view of the colorful lights as you soar down the Screaming Raptor’s special 3-line Christmas course.Learn more and book today.

Photo Credit: Creation Museum

Tips for your visit:

• Visit on a weekday for fewer crowds.
• Arrive early to get a good parking spot, and carpool if possible.
• Dress in layers. It can get quite cold

Want to upgrade your experience at ChristmasTown at Creation Museum? You can upgrade your ChristmasTown experience by touring the Creation Museum’s stunning exhibits and enjoying a delicious turkey or roast beef dinner with exclusive holiday pricing.

Creation Museum is located at 2800 Bullittsburg Church Rd., Petersburg, KY 4108 (7 miles from the Cincinnati Airport. Visit their website for more information: https://creationmuseum.org/christmas/

The post ChristmasTown at Creation Museum appeared first on Dayton Parent Magazine.

Even in the winter months, there is no shortage of memories to make or experiences to be had in Columbus, Ohio. Leading up to the holiday season, the city is literally aglow with thousands of lights, and the local family-friendly attractions eagerly participate in adding to the joy of the season.  

Covid guidelines are in place wherever you venture and most places have gone above and beyond to ensure everyone’s safety. Things may look a little different than they have in the past, but we were still able to find plenty of adventure despite the new socially distanced, masked up atmosphere.

If you’re looking for a weekend getaway that’s not too far away, or even just a day trip to create new family traditions, Columbus is the perfect place to go! Check out some of our kid and parent approved suggestions for making your trip to Columbus well worth the drive.

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium:

We spent the majority of a day exploring the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. There was so much to see and do! Even though some of the rides and exhibits close during the winter months, we stayed busy visiting all the attractions and animals that were out to enjoy. We were able to see so many of our favorites–zebras, gorillas, elephants, turtles and even reindeer. We rode on camels, fed and pet the stingrays, and “played around” with the seals and sea lions.

The train ride is open, and gave us an up close and personal look at animals like the giant moose, as well as some of the ‘Zoo Wildlights’ displays. Speaking of Wildlights, you won’t want to miss this amazing holiday experience in the evenings. Bundle up, grab a cup of hot cocoa and take in all the incredible lights while visiting with the animals.

Franklin Park Conservatory:

We dedicated one of our evenings to ‘Conservatory Aglow’ at the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, and it did not disappoint! Thousands of lights are on display throughout the gardens, creating a stunning, interactive adventure. New this year, guests are also able to experience a Candy-land scene with life-sized gingerbread house, as well as a magical Garden Railway display. Kids young and old will enjoy every part of this family-friendly event. Holiday Blooms, which boasts a 10-foot tall poinsettia tree, is also a favorite exhibit, and there are so many gorgeous photo ops throughout the Conservatory!

German Village:

Although you are never very far from a delicious pub, bistro or cafe in Columbus, German Village was our favorite place to stop and eat this weekend. Schmidt’s provided our whole crew with amazing food and equally amazing service. There was a full kids menu with options for even the pickiest eater, and irresistible authentic German cuisine for the more adventurous. But really, who could turn down their famous cream puffs??

If you’re still looking to satisfy a sweet tooth, or are shopping for unique gifts, be sure to visit Schmidt’s Fudge Haus just down the road. They have several mouth-watering varieties of handmade fudge as well as so many other treats to choose from. Paula Deen herself has even stated they have some of the best fudge she’s ever tasted!

Walk or drive along the 19th century brick streets, and you’ll find unique shops and historic houses lit up and glowing for the holidays.

Other notable (and free) holiday experiences:

Columbus Commons

The Columbus Commons holiday lights are beautiful and kids will enjoy roaming (or running) along all the pathways and open spaces.

Christmas Corner

Walk through a historic life-sized Nativity scene!

Scioto Mile

Stroll along the river for even more stunning outdoor light displays.

As always, make sure to check event websites or call before you visit. Some attractions are limiting guests, or require reservations due to new Covid guidelines. But no matter where you go, stay or eat while you’re there, enjoy your Columbus experience!

The post Worth The Drive: Experience Columbus! appeared first on Dayton Parent Magazine.

With the winter season officially here, many Ohioans are hopeful for snow. Check out our list of the top 6 spots to go sledding in and around Dayton!

 

Wright Memorial Park
2380 Memorial Rd., Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Dayton
The hill is an area favorite. Located off of Route 444 on Kaufman Avenue next to Wright Patterson Air Force Base, this hill has great access and parking. The designated sledding area is a grass surface ranging from smooth to bumpy. The slope is approximately 40 degrees with a lengthy run of about 700 to 800 feet. Many great spots act as ramps for those who like catching air. The only real obstacles are trees, but they’re at the top of the hill — well out of the way of a good run.

Englewood MetroPark
100 E. National Rd. entrance (US 40 at R 48), Dayton
Englewood MetroPark’s sledding hill is located in the West Park. Use the 100 E. National Road entrance (U.S. 40 at State Route 48) and follow the park road for parking. There is a short walk through the woods to the hill from the parking lot. The entrance to the wooded trail is signed at the south end of the parking lot. There’s lots of room to have multiple launches for races or stunt competitions.

Indian Riffle Park
2801 E. Stroop Rd., Kettering
Hidden behind Kettering Middle School off of Glengarry Dr. and Stroop Rd. is a beautiful sledding secret. The Indian Riffle Park hill is more of a mound, giving sliders more than one side to slide down. No obstacles with pretty smooth rides.Perfect for all ages.

Taylorsville MetroPark
2000 SR 40, Vandalia
With sufficient snowfall, glide down the sledding hill at the Taylorsville West Park, 1200 South Brown School Road. Bumpy, grass turf with a gentle grade, this obstacle-free hill offers safe long-distance sledding down a slope of 30 degrees with a 400- to 500-foot run. Sledding is not permitted on the dam.

Germantown MetroPark
7101 Conservancy Rd., Germantown
Kids will love the sledding hill! The hill is located at 6206 Boomershine Road, just north of Manning Road. This big hill is well worth the drive for sledders, tubers and beginning snowboarders alike.

John Bryant State Park
3790 State Route 370Yellow Springs, Ohio 45387
Under the proper winter conditions, park guests can enjoy sledding and cross-country skiing.

Community Golf Course 
917 Berkely St., Kettering
Located next to Hills & Dales MetroPark at Community Golf Course.

Other parks with good sledding hills: 

Triangle Park, 1700 Embury Park Rd., Dayton

Washington Park, 100 N. Wright Ave., Dayton

Bomberger Park at the corner of E. Fifth and Keowee Streets, Dayton

Stubbs Park, 255 West Spring Valley Pike, Centerville

The post Where To Go Sledding in Dayton appeared first on Dayton Parent Magazine.

Celebrate the season at The Christmas Glow, over 3.8 million lights at the 2-mile long Christmas Around the World drive-thru experience, visit Santa at the Christmas Village Santa Workshop or just take in the majestic lights of the 45-foot Christmas Tree as you and yours warm by the gas fire pits.

Are you excited to come to visit Southwest Ohio’s largest Christmas Lights Drive-thru event? The Christmas Glow welcomes visitors from all over – Cincinnati, Dayton, Lebanon and Columbus, Ohio, as well as Kentucky and Indiana. You can make this Christmas season special with the lights, shops, covered fire pits!

Explore the Christmas Village

MAGICAL. Start your holiday tradition here! There is no better word for all of the joy that Christmas brings. Our kids (and who are we kidding, us too!) wait anxiously all year – dreaming of Santa, the presents, the singing, the treats, the laughter, the traditions, hot cocoa or stroll around the 45-foot tree. Let us be part of the magic of your Christmas this year – and add a few more smiles, a few more laughs, a few more oohs and aahs to the wonder of the season. From our family to yours, Merry Christmas – we look forward to celebrating with you.

After you complete the drive-thru portion your vehicle arrives at the Christmas Village, complete with a gorgeous Christmas tree, a huge fire pit, Santa photo ops and more!

Christmas Glow at Land of Illusion is definitely a tradition you will want to start with your family this year and runs until December 30th! (Closed Christmas Day) For more information visit https://www.landofillusion.com/glow/

The post Experience Christmas Glow at Land of Illusion appeared first on Dayton Parent Magazine.

For over 30 years, Clifton Mill has celebrated the Christmas season in a very special way. Our light display is one of the country’s finest with over 3.5 million lights illuminating the mill, the gorge, the riverbanks, trees, and bridges.

There is even a 100-foot “waterfall” of twinkling lights. The flip of one switch turns all the lights on at once transforming night into a fantastical winter wonderland.

The lights have been featured in Midwest Living and Ohio Magazine. There is a Miniature Village, a Santa Claus Museum and spectacular synchronized lights and music show that features the old Covered Bridge. Every night until Christmas you can peek into Santa’s Workshop to see a live Santa at work and then, every 15 minutes or so, watch him check his list and go up the chimney to load his sleigh!

So gather your family and head out to see The Legendary Lights of Clifton Mill for an instant “Christmas Spirit” boost.

What You Should Know:

• The gates open at 5pm, the lights come on at 6pm
• The gates close at 9pm, light go off 30 minutes later
• Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, they close at 8pm
• Parking is free
• Santa is busy working and not available for photos
• Admission is $10 per person for everyone age 4 and older. Children 3 and under get in FREE!
• Mastercard & Visa are accepted

COVID 19 Updates

We are taking enhanced health and safety measures for our guests and we are going to do our best under the circumstances. Below are a few things to keep your visit safe and enjoyable.

• Limited Capacity – crowds will be held at 25% – there may be longer lines
• Masks are Mandatory – no exception – social distancing is highly encouraged
• No Inside Restrooms
• No Inside Dining – a food truck will be outside for hot chocolate & snacks
• Follow state health department guidelines if you are feeling under the weather