Your guide to activities and fun things to do with your preschoolers, toddlers and kids in cincinnati, OH

What's Going on This Weekend?

by Amy Mumper

May 28, 2009

Preschool just ended this week and it feels like summer.  But, perhaps you find yourself, as I do, trying to explain that "IT'S SUMMER!" but "summer doesn't really start until June, but, IT'S SUMMER!"  Well, I sure feel like it is.  Many area pools are open and ready for business.  So, officially, it's summer!

A perennial favorite of mine is the Summer Reading program at the Cincinnati Library.  All locations are hosting a kickoff event from 2-4 pm on Saturday, May 30. (but, if you're swift, you might get to see Zak Morgan at the Erlanger Library "Cookout Kickoff" Friday the 29^th.  In Hamilton County, the kick off event is decorating your own tote bag and getting a first peek at the prizes and of course, you pick up your official game card.  It doesn't matter how young your children are - you can count by how many books you've read (together or independently) or by how many hours, so it's fun for all involved.  I also noticed yesterday at a stop by my library that they have an adult summer reading program, too.  I thought I might check that out for myself and encourage a little friendly competition with Mommy around my house.  (Lately, I'm the proverbial "rotten egg" all the time.  Shh - don't tell them that I let them win!)

Summerfair is another venue to check out this weekend.  It's hosted at Coney Island and what's better than feelin' that you're by the river on the weekend?  (Ever go "tubing" in the Ohio River?  What a blast!!  Ok, I was 10 and had no idea The River shouldn't be brown.)  Anyhow... Summerfair.  Lots of fun, cool crafts for kids (painting flower pots, creating your own t-shirt or your own ant house!)  There is also a "Youth Arts" performance stage where your little ones might get inspired to try the arts!

Of course, with Cincy humidity, there's always the sprinkler!  Have a good one!

Can't Live Without Spots

by Amy Mumper

March 03, 2009

Spots we can't live without here at Being Savvy Cincinnati.  Of course, there are always more than we can mention, but after this weekend, I've got a great place to start:

1.  Ok, after my amazing experience with all three Littles at the Children's Theatre this weekend, I just have to SHOUT about it!  I took my 6, 4 and 3 year olds to the High School Musical 2 performance this weekend.  It was PERFECT.  Amazing talent (local high school students, no less!)  It didn't last too long and everybody seems fine with minimal noise.  So, I know it's hard to spend extra bucks on the arts at this time, but do the best you can to find a discount or encourage them to come to your school.  It's worth it.

2.  Free places to enjoy books, pass the time and play...  and, if you're really strong, you don't buy any books.  Enjoy your local bookstores.

3.  Parks... after encouraging the big bucks on the arts, I can enjoy something free.  J  I will love being outside just as soon as it's warmer.

4.  More free stuff!  If you aren't already enjoying the library, now is the time.  CDs, DVDs, books, of course.  It's a great way to feed your family's literacy appetite without the mullah!

Welcome to our new feature: Weekend Roundup!

by Amy Mumper

February 06, 2009

I'm excited to try out our new feature, so let's get right to it: Need a reason to start thinking spring ? Visit the "Greater Cincinnati Summer Camp Adventure Fair" and get a free admission to one of the museums! From 12-4 pm on Sunday February 8 at the Museum Center , you can dream yourself all the way to summer camp. To get a free ticket, just stop by the Cincinnati  Read more...

A List of Great Story Times...

by Amy Mumper

November 11, 2008

A list of great story times? Hmmm... Traveling to book stores with my Littles is like a dream come true for this bookworm! So, when it comes time to write a list of favorite story times I can talk your arm off! I love the enticing displays and three-times-a-week storytellings at my favorite local bookstore like Joseph Beth Booksellers in Norwood or the twice weekly, music-complemented  Read more...

Book Nooks for Tots

by Amy Mumper

October 06, 2008

A self declared bookworm and former elementary school teacher, this mama's got you covered when it comes to book nooks for your little folks! Topping the list in Cincy HAS to be Joseph Beth Booksellers in the Rookwood Pavilion in Norwood! They actually have a free preschool story time 3 times a week (MWF)! Go anytime and entice The Littles into reading after theyve had their fill of the  Read more...

The Budding Art Critic

by Amy Mumper

October 06, 2008

My friend Kari and I recently proved that kids are indeed art critics! And you know what else? They REALLY enjoy it! Your Little can gain an appreciation of any type of art. First, visit the art museum or get books to find an interesting subset of art (Sculpture, photography, impressionism, etc). Then, stock up at the library and learn what you can by checking out the web. Allow your  Read more...

Rain, Rain, Go Away!

by Shannan Boyer

September 18, 2008

As a parent of young children you know there's nothing worse than when the kids come down with "cabin fever." You know how it goes - kids bouncing off walls, driving each other (and you) crazy because they're desperate to get out of the house. But what do you do when the weather just isn't cooperating? Well, never fear my friends, because one of the great things about living in the Cincinnati  Read more...