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.

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.

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.

Looking for that perfect holiday experience this season? Visit Downtown Dayton and enjoy the beautiful lights, shop at locally owned boutiques and enjoy delicious cuisine only found in Dayton, Ohio!

HOLIDAY LIGHTS ON MAIN
New this year! Main Street in downtown Dayton has been transformed into an interactive light show! Tune your radio to 97.1 FM and drive along Main Street between Monument Avenue and Fifth Street, and watch more than 100 trees light up to a synchronized “dance” to holiday music! Light shows run continuously from 5pm until midnight daily. This attraction is free and will continue through early 2021. Click here to see a preview of the show.

TAKEOUT AND CURBSIDE PICKUP
Make it a complete evening by ordering takeout food or drinks from your favorite downtown eateries and pubs, and pick it up on your way home! Looking for downtown Dayton restaurants hours and service options? Find them here.

CHECK OUT OUR HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE!
You can find the same old stuff at the big box stores, or you can give something truly unique this holiday season by shopping at downtown’s independent, locally-owned retailers. Shopping small and shopping local not only is the best way to find great gifts – it’s also a great way to help small businesses survive the pandemic when they need your support more than ever. We’ve made the giving easy by assembling some fantastic gift ideas from downtown businesses. Find ideas for everyone on your list in our Downtown Dayton Holiday Gift Guide!

GIVE DOWNTOWN DOLLARS!
Need a great, one-size-fits-all gift? Downtown Dollars is a new e-gift card that is accepted at more than 50 local, independent downtown Dayton businesses. Find information at https://www.downtowndayton.org/dollars/
.

The post Support Downtown Dayton this Holiday Season appeared first on Dayton Parent Magazine.

The Downtown Dayton Partnership is excited to announce a new holiday feature in downtown Dayton, Holiday Lights on Main. This free attraction features hundreds of illuminated trees lighting up Main Street from Monument Avenue to Fifth Street and will be on display every night through the holiday season.

Part of the Dayton Holiday Festival, presented by DP&L, the Holiday Lights on Main will run through January 2021. See the lights come to life as they “dance” to music. Tune your radio to 97.1 FM while you drive down Main Street to enjoy a light show synchronized to holiday music. A rotating selection of holiday music will be played on this station. Main Street in downtown Dayton has hundreds of on-street parking spaces that you can stop and watch the light display from a safe, parked position.

Park along Main Street between the blocks of Second and Third streets for a full view of dozens of dancing lights on Courthouse Square, and a view of the 2020 Dayton Holiday Festival tree, illuminated by hundreds of thousands of lights.

This holiday attraction is free and open to anyone to enjoy. The lights can also be observed as a pedestrian, also, but don’t forget you can tune a radio to 97.1 FM to listen to the music that accompanies the light show.

The Holiday Lights on Main are a great start or ending to your family’s visit in downtown Dayton this holiday season! Take the scenic route on your way to pick up your to-go order, or drive through the display and then stick around and pick up a gift from a downtown retailer, or order food and drinks from a downtown restaurant.

Make Holiday Lights on Main your first stop in a list of other downtown attractions, including seeing the decorated storefront in businesses’ Whimsical Windows displays, or the Kettering Family Train at Stratacache Tower. For more information on other downtown Dayton holiday attractions, visit www.daytonholidayfestival.org.

For a complete list of downtown’s restaurants, retailers, and attractions visit www.downtowndayton.org/open, and follow the DDP on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram to keep up with downtown events and news.

The post Downtown Dayton Illuminated by Holiday Lights on Main appeared first on Dayton Parent Magazine.

Filled with holidays, traditions, and cozying up in front of a fire, it’s no wonder winter is dubbed the most wonderful time of the year. While there is a lot to look forward to this season, colder weather also brings its own set of risks. There are steps you can take to prepare your home and worry less this winter. Follow these tips to protect you and your loved ones this season.

1. Check your carbon monoxide detector. Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless, flammable gas that can be fatal when inhaled in large quantities. Carbon monoxide is produced whenever fuel is burned, such as when you use a gas grill, run your car, use a gas-burning fireplace, gas stove, or have a gas-powered hot water heater. “Carbon monoxide is so dangerous because it is silent,” says Kettering Health Network Emergency Medicine Coordinator Ryan Konkel, MS, NRP. “You can’t smell it or taste it. You often won’t know there is a problem until you start to experience symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning.” Every home should have a working carbon monoxide detector. Check to see if your detector is operational, never run your car in the garage to warm it up, and make sure all gas valves are closed on fireplaces, stoves, and grills when not in use. If your carbon monoxide detector goes off, immediately leave the house and call 911.
2. Be smart with space heaters. Dropping temperatures outside can require extra heat inside. If you use a space heater in your home, purchase one with an anti-switch tip. This safeguard automatically shuts off a heater if it is tipped over. Make sure you are using the correct space heater for the size room you need heated, and place the heater away from furniture, curtains, and other flammable items.
3. Fix up your fireplace. Fireplaces are the heart of the home during the winter months. While you are decorating the mantle, make a point to have the inside of your chimney checked too. Soot and debris can build up in the fireplace and flue, which can lead to heat entrapment and a fire. Make sure your fireplace is safe by scheduling a professional inspection and cleaning.
4. Be careful with candles and holiday lights. Twinkling trees, pre-lit garland, and candles are all part of holiday traditions that add a warm glow to the season. They can also pose a serious safety hazard. “Make sure you are using newer strands of lights when decorating,” says Ryan. “Lights that have been recently manufactured are designed to protect against overheating. If you are lighting candles, place them away from curtains, furniture and other flammable objects and out of reach of children. Finally, make sure to never leave lights on or candles lit when you leave home or go to sleep.”
5. Vamp up protection against viral infections. From influenza to COVID-19, viral infections surge in the winter months because people spend more time indoors and in closer contact with each other. “If you or someone who lives in your home is sick, stay home and consult your doctor before returning to work or school,” says Ryan. “Make sure you are regularly disinfecting high-touch surfaces in your home, that members of your household are frequently washing their hands, and that your HVAC system is serviced so it properly filters out particulates and you are getting fresh moving into your home.”

Do your part to prepare for a safe season indoors and make sure you know where the closest emergency center is, should an emergency arise.

Find your nearest emergency center at ketteringhealth.org/emergency

The post 5 Steps to a Safer Season appeared first on Dayton Parent Magazine.

The best gifts for our children do not come in pretty gift boxes – they come in giving experiences that will impact their lives. With the unique challenges that 2020 has brought, our kiddos need activity, normalcy, safety and FUN more than ever!

The Aqua-Tots motto continues to hold strong: “Safety FIRST, FUN Every Second!” With a modified swim school environment, Aqua-Tots’ Full Circle of Safety Program allows for continued swimming instruction of life-saving skills while keeping its facility clean and safe for families.

Now is the perfect time to gift the child in your life a gift they will never forget, a gift they will take with them for the rest of their life. Aqua-Tots Holiday Swim Bundles are now available for purchase! Holiday Swim Bundles start with three months of swim lessons and include an embroidered lush cabana towel, a large tote bag, a drawstring bag for carrying your swim gear,  an Ollie the Otter T-Shirt, and more!

Aqua-Tots offers small group classes, with no more than 4 children per class, starting as young as just 4 months old. The indoor heated pool environment creates a comfortable environment conducive to learning through 30 minute weekly swim lessons. Aqua-Tots Water Safety Instructors go through 50+ hours of intensive online and in-water training, are CPR certified and passionate about working with children.

Purchase your Holiday Swim Bundle by calling the closest Aqua-Tots near you, or visiting our website to purchase online:

Aqua-Tots Beavercreek

2451 Lakeview Dr Ste. 106, Beavercreek, OH 45431

(937) 200-1120

Aqua-Tots Springboro

716 N Main St, Springboro, OH 45066

(937) 886-4321

The post Peace of Mind at Holiday Time: Give the Gift of Swimming with Aqua-Tots Swim Schools! appeared first on Dayton Parent Magazine.