Unlock Winter Fun with Your Family in Northeast Ohio
Visit Your Local Library
Don't forget about your local library! It's a fantastic free destination for kids of all ages. Alongside a vast collection of books, you can check out an array of freebies like movies, video games, board games, craft supplies, and instruments. Pop in for story time or craft sessions and make learning and fun blend seamlessly.
Imagine the joy on your child's face as they discover a new world through books or engage in creative activities. The library truly is a treasure trove of experiences.
Learn about a New Country
Embark on a virtual journey around the world without leaving your living room. Select a country that intrigues your family and gather educational materials. Practice native language phrases, savor snacks from that country, prepare a cultural dish, or hunt for an authentic restaurant in Northeast Ohio.
This exploration not only broadens your children's horizons but also adds a touch of excitement and cultural diversity to your winter break. It's a learning experience like no other.
Visit a Local Attraction
Northeast Ohio is a haven of unique attractions. Dive into our list of Indoor Play Places and Ongoing Attractions to find something that suits your family's interests. Whether it's a fun-filled indoor play area or a captivating ongoing attraction, there's always something to discover.
Imagine the laughter and excitement as your kids explore these local gems. It's a great way to make memories and create a sense of community.
Enjoy Outdoor Seasonal Fun
As winter blankets Northeast Ohio in a beautiful wonderland, there are numerous ways to enjoy the outdoors. Bundle up and try tobogganing, glide across the ice at an outdoor skating rink, hit the slopes for skiing, or dine in a cozy igloo. The possibilities are endless.
Feeling the cold air on your face and engaging in these outdoor activities together creates unforgettable moments that will stay with your family for years to come.
Feed the Birds
Purchase some seed and a feeder for your yard or get creative and make your own. Keep a notebook to track the different types of birds that visit. It's a simple yet rewarding activity that connects your family with nature.
Watching the birds flutter around and chirping happily is a soothing sight that brings a sense of peace to your winter days.
Host a Family Board Game Night
Invite some family members or friends over for a night of classic fun. Set up a cozy corner with a variety of board games and let the games begin. It's a great way to bond and create lasting memories.
The laughter and friendly competition during a family board game night are truly priceless. It's a time when everyone can relax and enjoy each other's company.
Do a Large Puzzle
Are you up for a challenge? Grab a large puzzle and designate a special puzzle table in your house. Each day, have family members contribute a few pieces until the puzzle is complete. It's a great way to develop problem-solving skills and teamwork.
Watching the puzzle come together piece by piece is a satisfying experience that keeps your family engaged and focused.
Use a Free Trial of Something
While everyone is at home, take advantage of free trials for new streaming services, mobile apps, or games. Explore and enjoy these offerings without any financial commitment. Just remember to cancel when the trial ends to avoid any surprises.
It's a great way to discover new things and keep everyone entertained during the winter break.
Go to a Sporting Event
Cheer on your favorite teams at a Cleveland Monsters hockey game or a Cavaliers basketball game. You can also catch the area's college teams in action, such as men's or women's basketball. The energy and excitement of a sporting event are infectious.
Being part of the crowd and supporting your team creates a sense of unity and shared experience among family members.
Visit a Nature Center
Many local parks have free nature centers that are open year-round. Discover native animals, participate in educational activities, and chat with park rangers. It's a great way to connect with nature and learn about the environment.
Walking through the nature center and observing the natural world around you is a peaceful and educational experience.
Stroll Holiday Lights
Put on your warm holiday attire, load up the car, and turn up the festive music as you head to your favorite holiday lights displays. Most community holiday light displays stay on until at least New Year's Day, so you have plenty of time to enjoy them.
The twinkling lights and holiday spirit create a magical atmosphere that will fill your hearts with joy.
Grab a Sweet Treat
Indulge in some delicious treats at family-friendly shops. At B.A. Sweeties in Cleveland, you can shop the massive warehouse for candy or enjoy a milkshake or ice cream. In Canton, visit the Fannie May Chocolate Factory and take a free factory tour (advance reservations required). And in Northeast Ohio, Malley's Chocolates has multiple stores and four ice cream parlors to explore.
Treating yourself to a sweet treat is a wonderful way to add a little extra happiness to your winter break.
CEO Monica Kelsey's Inspiring Journey
Monica Kelsey, the CEO and founder of Safe Haven Baby Boxes, has a remarkable story. She was in the military and then became a firefighter and medic. Meeting her biological mother and learning about her past led her to take action. Her organization aims to prevent illegal abandonment by raising awareness and offering a 24-hour hotline. Safe Haven Baby Boxes serve as a last resort for women seeking anonymity.First responders can request these boxes at their departments, ensuring the safety of surrendered newborns. Currently, there is one box at the Fort Dodge Fire Department and another at MercyOne in Des Moines.The Foundation of Four Oaks
Four Oaks, an Iowa-based organization, has a rich history. Originally founded in 1973 as "Boys Acres" with a small building in Cedar Rapids for 10 boys, it has grown significantly over 50 years. Now, it serves all 99 counties in Iowa, providing resources for at-risk youth, housing, and family assistance.Jen Royer, the vice president of operations, has been with the organization for 26 years. When she joined, there were 200 staff concentrated in Cedar Rapids. Now, there are 800 staff members, and over 20,000 people are using their services.With a degree in social work, Royer initially thought her stay at Four Oaks would be a year. But she couldn't leave because of the important work they do for Iowa's kids.President Mary Beth O'Neill's Perspective
Mary Beth O'Neill, the president and CEO of Four Oaks, has been with the organization for only three years. But she is committed to the work due to the need across the state. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she witnessed the impact on foster families and the increased need for their services.Four Oaks actively recruits foster families every day. They need diverse families across the state to keep children in their current school systems and close to their communities.O'Neill and Royer understand that not everyone can foster a child, but the organization always needs help with donations and building relationships. Their staff work hard to identify natural supports like coaches and teachers.Whether it's a gas card, a lunch outing, or a long-term placement, Iowa's children need homes. Community support is essential for the betterment of all communities.The Role of Safe Haven Laws
Iowa has a safe haven law that allows parents to surrender their newborns at specific facilities without fear of prosecution. Since its enactment in 2002, more than 60 children have been surrendered using this law. After surrender, children may go through organizations like Four Oaks to find a safe family or be placed in custody.The law was created to prevent newborns from being killed due to unsafe surrenders. An example is the case of a baby found in the Iowa City landfill in 1992 with the umbilical cord still attached.Kelsey emphasizes that Safe Haven is a last resort and not the first choice. But it provides a safe option for parents.In conclusion, both Safe Haven Baby Boxes and Four Oaks are making a significant impact on child welfare in Iowa. Their efforts ensure the safety and well-being of children and at-risk youth."Socioeconomics and Childhood MS: Uncovering the Link"
MS in Childhood: A Rare Phenomenon
MS developing in childhood is indeed a rare occurrence. However, recent studies have brought to light an intriguing connection between socioeconomics and the disease's progression. This finding opens up new avenues for research and understanding.
Just 5% of MS cases arise before the age of 18, emphasizing the uniqueness of this population. The study of 138 MS patients diagnosed before 18 years old revealed some astonishing differences.
Neighborhood Disadvantage and Brain Tissue Damage
Kids from 'disadvantaged' neighborhoods were found to have more brain tissue damage compared to those from affluent areas. This disparity highlights the impact of the environment on the disease. The study showed that children in less advantaged neighborhoods exhibited larger volumes of inflammation and brain tissue loss.
It's a concerning finding that suggests socioeconomics can have lasting effects on MS severity. Childhood is a critical time for exposure to various environmental factors, and these may contribute to increased susceptibility to MS.
The Role of Insurance and Health Care Access
Interestingly, relying on public health insurance was strongly linked to more MS-linked brain inflammation and tissue loss. This indicates that access to health care may play a role in the severity of the disease.
Despite the fact that factors such as how quickly a child was seen by a neurologist or the effectiveness of medications did not explain the differences, it's clear that more research is needed. The root causes of these disparities remain unclear.
As O'Neill's team pointed out, many groups have been underrepresented in MS research. This study is just the beginning of a larger effort to understand and address these issues.
For more information about multiple sclerosis, visit the National MS Society. The American Academy of Neurology also provides valuable resources.