Wherever You Go (An All Are Welcome Book)
By Alexandra Penfold, Illustrated by Suzanne Kaufman
From the creators of the bestselling All Are Welcome comes a modern and inclusive picture book that celebrates the many milestones of a child’s life ranging from a school play to graduation with an emphasis on kindness and community.
Buy here for $18.99 

Dr. Seuss’s Oh, the Places You’ll Go! Coloring Book
By Random House
Celebrate new beginnings with Dr. Seuss! Featuring designs and patterns based on the best-selling Oh, the Places You’ll Go!, this coloring book for all ages is the perfect way to relax and exercise your imagination.
Buy here for $18.99

Oh, The Places You’ll Go! 
By Dr. Seuss
#1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • Dr. Seuss’s wonderfully wise Oh, the Places You’ll Go! is the perfect gift to celebrate all of our special milestones—from graduations to birthdays and beyond!
Buy here for $18.99

The Blur
By Minh Lê, Illustrated by Dan Santat
Meet a child with superhero-like abilities . . . and the parents who are racing to keep up with her in this sweetly funny picture book about the blur of childhood, from the award-winning creators of Drawn Together. A perfect gift to celebrate all of our special milestones–from graduations to birthdays and beyond!
Buy here for $18.99

The Wonderful Things You Will Be
By Emily Winfield Martin
The New York Times bestseller that celebrates the dreams, acceptance, and love that parents have for their children . . . now and forever. This is the perfect heartfelt gift for kids of all ages, plus a great choice for baby showers, birthdays, graduations, and other new beginnings!
Buy here for $17/99

June B. Jones Is a Graduation Girl
By Barbara Park
Meet the world’s funniest kindergartener, Junie B. Jones, as she gets ready to become the world’s funniest first grader! Barbara Park’s #1 New York Times bestselling chapter book series has been keeping kids laughing—and reading—for more than twenty-five years. Over 65 million copies sold!
Buy here for $6.99

Graduation Day in Adventure Bar
By Matt Huntley, Illustrated by Nate Lovett
A hardcover storybook featuring the pups from Nickelodeon’s PAW Patrol that’s perfect for graduation celebrations–and includes over 50 stickers.
Buy here for $10.99

Kindergarten Graduation! A Book for Soon-to-be First Graders
By Jennifer Liberts, Illustrated by Courtney Dawson
The perfect Little Golden Book to celebrate finishing kindergarten!
Buy here for $5.99

The Spark in You 
By Andrea Pippins
This jubilant picture book filled with powerful affirmations celebrates the beautiful magic that makes each of us special. This is the perfect heartfelt gift for a birthday, graduation or other new beginnings.
Buy here for $18.99

You and the Universe
By Stephen Hawkins and Lucy Hawking, Illustrated by Xin Li
Inspire kids to ask the big questions about Earth and the cosmos with this stunningly illustrated version of Professor Stephen Hawking’s final message to humankind.
Buy here for $19.99

It’s Not Bragging If It’s True
By Zaila Avant-garde
NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • Kids will be inspired to embrace their inner weirdness and persevere through obstacles after reading this empowering collection of true stories from teenage Scripps National Spelling Bee champ and Guinness World Record holder Zaila Avant-garde! Includes 8 pages of never-before-seen photos.
Buy here for $8.99

Do Your Best Every Day To Do Your Best Every Day 
By John Cena, Illustrated by Susanna Harrison
Bestselling author and entertainer John Cena motivates and inspires readers with this illustrated book of uplifting encouragements adapted from his popular Twitter feed. The perfect gift for graduations, birthdays, and life’s biggest celebrations!
Buy here for $14.99

The Teachers I Loved Best
By Taylor Mali, Illustrated by Erica Root
Educator and acclaimed poet Taylor Mali honors the magic of teachers and mentors in this joyful, energetic, uplifting gift book.
Buy here for $18.99

Dr. Seuss’s Oh, What I’ve Learned Thanks to MY Teachers
By Dr. Seuss
Say thank you to a teacher with this small hardcover gift book featuring art by Dr. Seuss! An ideal choice in place of a greeting card, this charming keepsake includes unrhymed lines of appreciation for the many different ways that teachers help shape our lives!
Buy here for $8.99

World’s #1 Teacher 
By Mike Berenstain
Say thank you to a teacher in your life with this Berenstain Bears gift book that celebrates teachers of all kinds!
Buy here for $9.99

Getting Ready for First Grade
By Vera Ahiyya, Illustrated by Debby Rahmalia
Get ready for first grade in this exciting new series for kids embarking on new adventures! Vera Ahiyya, the Tutu Teacher, knows everything your family needs to get ready… and to celebrate every precious moment!
Buy here for $10.99

Discover more great book roundups by clicking here.

The post Books for Graduates appeared first on Cincinnati Family Magazine.

Keen eyes may have seen some massive mammoths at the Reds Opening Day Parade! This exciting happening kicked off a mammoth move, literally. The Cincinnati Museum Center’s (CMC) collection of four wooly mammoths are moving from their most recent home, outside of the Geier Collections and Research Center, to right next to the museum center at 1518 Dalton Avenue. The mammoths will mark the new home of CMC’s collections, the Treasure Facility, which includes over six million artifacts! The new, state-of-the-art 200,000-square-foot facility will undergo renovations through 2027 and once complete will span 11 acres and house education, research and collections initiatives. Stay in-the-know by visiting cincymuseum.org.

More on this mammoth move!

The Vontz Family Education, Research and Collections Center will house many of CMC’s collections.

Per Cincinnati Museum Center (CMC):

CMC cares for over six million historic artifacts and scientific specimens cataloged into over a dozen collections, including both vertebrate and invertebrate paleontology, zoology, mineralogy, archaeology, history objects, fine art, manuscripts, moving images and photographs. Among those treasures, CMC boasts the world’s largest and finest collection of Ordovician fossils from over 420 million years ago, the world’s largest collection of sauropod dinosaur skulls – both critical to ongoing scientific research – and the most complete collection of photographs from Cincinnati-based Black photographer and abolitionist J.P. Ball. The region’s treasures within CMC’s collections include objects with national and global significance, including a July 9, 1776 printing of the Declaration of Independence known as the Holt Broadside – one of only five surviving copies – and the remains of the last living great auk. From local students to international researchers, local genealogists to amateur historians, CMC receives over 1,000 research visits each year with another 8,000 online collections portal searches. Dozens of collections items are loaned out each year to museums across the globe, demonstrating the global impact of Cincinnati’s local stories.

The Vontz Family has hired SmithGroup to make designs turn to construction and conclude in  a finished product in late 2027.

Additional funds are being raised for this project. Those interested in making a donating can visit supportcmc.org

The post Cincinnati Museum Center Collection Making Moves appeared first on Cincinnati Family Magazine.

Mother’s Day is THIS SUNDAY, May 11th, 2025. Random House Children’s Books has rounded up some reads that moms will rave about! Check them out, below:

Elmo’s Mommy Day
By Andrea Posner-Sanchez, Illustrated by Adua Hernandez
Sesame Street‘s Elmo and his mommy play a fun game of hide-and-seek in this lift-the-flap board book that’s perfect for Mother’s Day or celebrating mothers all year long!
$8.99 on Amazon 

ABC’s of Love for Mom
By Patricia Hegarty, Illustrated by Summer Macon
Making Mom feel loved is as easy as A-B-C with this sweet board book that fosters social emotional development—the perfect gift!
$8.99 on Amazon

Diggers Love Their Mommies!
By Brianna Caplan Sayres, Illustrated by Christian Slade
Mommies are so special! Join your favorite diggers (and more!) as they celebrate their mommies and all they do. Perfect for new mommies, Mother’s Day, and every day!
$8.99 on Amazon

To the Moon and Back for You
By Emilia Bechrakis Serhant, Illustrated by EG Keller
A perfect gift for any parent who has struggled on their journey to have a baby, Million Dollar Listing star Emilia Bechrakis Serhant’s debut picture book poignantly explores her own difficulty conceiving and her life-changing experiences with IVF.
$8.99 on Amazon

My Mom is a Superhero!
By Rachel Chlebowski, Illustrated by Red Central LTD
Celebrate superhero moms this Mother’s Day with this extra cute version of Wonder Woman in this sturdy board book!
$6.99 on Amazon

Can You See My Mommy?
By Becky Davies, Illustrated by Mel Armstrong
Children can turn the peek-through pages to help the little critters find their mommies — a perfect bedtime read-along!
$9.99 on Amazon

Are You My Mother?
By P.D. Eastman
NATIONAL BESTSELLER • The must-have, heartwarming and hilarious classic about a baby bird in search of his mother!
$9.99 on Amazon

My Little Brave Girl
By Hillary Dogg, Illustrated by Kelsey Garrity-Riley
NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • Actress, singer, and mother Hilary Duff offers a beautiful and inspiring picture book about bravery and love — a perfect mother-daughter read-aloud!
The world is big, my little brave girl.
It’s all here for you.
$8.99 on Amazon 

My Two Moms and Me
By Micheal Joosten, Illustrated by Izak Zenou
Celebrate Pride every day with this adorable board book for the babies and toddlers of lesbian mothers, featuring a variety of diverse, loving families with two moms.
$8.99 on Amazon

We Love You, Mummy Pig!
By Courtney Carbone, Illustrated by Zoe Waring
We Love You, Mummy Pig! (Peppa Pig) is a part of the Little Golden Book collection.Celebrate Mother’s Day with Peppa Pig, George, and Mummy Pig in this all-new Little Golden Book!
$5.99 on Amazon

Mama’s Home
By Shay Youngblood, Illustrated by Lo Harris
A gorgeously illustrated picture book that is a powerful love letter to chosen families and the village that raises us. A young girl basks in the love of her community–which includes not only her mother but the many different women who make up her world.
$18.99 on Amazon

Mom for a Day
By Random House
Celebrate Mother’s Day with Tag, Scooch, and all their friends in this all-new storybook based on the Netflix Go, Dog. Go! animated series!
$5.99 on Amazon

A Gift for Nana
By Lane Smith
Two-time Caldecott Honor author/illustrator Lane Smith tells a whimsical story about a little rabbit searching for the best gift for someone very special.
$18.99 on Amazon

World’s Wisest Mama Bear
By Mike Berenstain
Celebrate Mom’s special day with this inspirational Berenstain Bears gift book—it’s perfect for the Mama Bear in your life!
$9.99 on Amazon

Mother’s Day in Adventure Bay
By Matt Huntley, Illustrated by Fabrizio Petrossi
Celebrate Mother’s Day with the pups of Nickelodeon’s PAW Patrol in this charming Little Golden Book.
$5.99 on Amazon

Kisses from Space 
By Anna Menon and Keri Vasek, Illustrated by Andy Harkness
As Polaris Dawn crewmember, engineer, and mother Anna Menon gets ready to take off into space, she penned this sweet picture book as a love letter to her kids—reimagining their family as a tight-knit clan of adventurous dragons who love each other across any distance!
$14.50 on Amazon

Taking Care of Mom
By Mercer Mayer
When Mom gets sick, Little Critter and his sister come to the rescue in this classic Little Golden Book perfect for a Mother’s Day gift!
$16.10 on Amazon

How to Raise a Mom 
By Jean Reagan and Lee Wildish
Celebrate the bond between moms and children with this humorous New York Times-bestseller that invites the kids to do the hard work of raising their mom…if just for a day!
$8.99 on Amazon

Always Your Stepmom
By Stephanie Stansbie, Illustrated by Tatiana Kamshilina
A heartwarming picture book about the unique bond between a stepmother and her stepchild.
$16.90 on Amazon

We Leap Together
By Christopher Silas Neal
An awe-inspiring nonfiction picture book, perfect for animal lovers, that reveals how a mama whale and a mama person care for their young in remarkably similar ways, from the illustrator of Over and Under the Snow.
$19.99 on Amazon

Grump Monkey! Mom for a Day
By Suzanne Lang, Illustrated by Max Lang
NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • The Grumpy Monkey series returns with a celebration of relationships between mothers and their children. Grumpy Monkey offers to babysit the little animals in the jungle but when things go haywire, help comes from an unexpected source. Includes two bonus pages of stickers!
$12.99 on Amazon

My Mom is a Mermaid
By Bill Canterbury, Illustrated by Jeff Harter
You think your family is strange? What if your mom was a mermaid?! Fans of the magical creatures in the “How to Catch a” series will love this new super-silly picture book that celebrates how ALL families are weird. Includes two pages of stickers!
$12.99 on Amazon

The Jade Bracelet
By Hà Dinh, Illustrated by Yong Ling Kang
When the girls at school show off their shiny new bracelets, newly arrived immigrant Tien is embarrassed by the plain jade bracelet she wears as a symbol of her Vietnamese heritage.
$18.99 on Amazon

The post Mother’s Day Books appeared first on Cincinnati Family Magazine.

What Are Standardized Tests?
Standardized tests are assessments that are administered and scored in a consistent, uniform manner across all test-takers. The goal of these tests is to evaluate a student’s academic abilities, knowledge, or potential in specific subjects under controlled conditions. They are designed to ensure that every student takes the same test, under the same conditions, and is scored according to the same criteria.

The SAT & ACT
The two nationally recognized standardized tests for college admissions are the SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test) and the ACT (American College Test). Both exams are used by colleges and universities across the United States to assess a student’s readiness for higher education, helping admissions officers make objective decisions about applicants.

The SAT is broken down into three main sections.

1. Evidence-Based Reading and Writing
This section tests reading comprehension and writing skills, focusing on the student’s ability to analyze written passages and answer questions about them.

2. Math
The math section covers a range of topics, including algebra, problem-solving, and data analysis. Some questions require a calculator, while others are “no-calculator” questions.

3. Essay (Optional)
The essay portion is optional, but some colleges require it. In this section, students are asked to analyze a passage and construct an essay that explains how the author builds their argument.

The SAT is scored on a scale from 400 to 1600, with separate scores given for the reading and writing section (up to 800) and the math section (up to 800). The essay score is separate and is graded based on a rubric that assesses writing skills and argumentation.

The ACT is structured similarly to the SAT but with a few differences. The ACT assesses students in four areas:

1. English
This section tests grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, and rhetorical skills. 

2. Math
The math section covers topics such as algebra, geometry, and trigonometry. It is more focused on mathematical problem-solving than the SAT.

3. Reading
This section tests reading comprehension, similar to the SAT, where students must analyze passages and answer questions about them.

4. Science
The ACT includes a unique science section that evaluates a student’s ability to interpret, analyze, and reason through scientific data and experiments. This is the ACT’s most distinctive feature from the SAT.

The ACT is scored on a scale, with each section scoring between 1 and 36. The average of these four sections gives the overall composite score, which ranges from 1 to 36. The ACT also offers an optional writing section (the essay), which is scored separately.

Benefits of Standardized Testing
While standardized testing often gets a bad rap, there are significant benefits that these exams provide to students and schools. 

Measuring Student Knowledge and Skills
One of the biggest advantages of standardized testing is its ability to objectively measure a student’s academic knowledge and skills. These tests provide clear data about where a student stands academically in comparison to national or regional standards. This allows educators to identify strengths and areas for improvement in their students.

College and Career Readiness
Standardized tests like the SAT and ACT are crucial tools in assessing whether a student is ready for the challenges of higher education. College admissions officers rely on these tests to get an objective measure of academic ability and preparedness. Similarly, many employers use standardized tests as part of their hiring process to assess job-related skills.

Identifying Learning Gaps
For students, standardized tests can help pinpoint gaps in knowledge. Recognizing these gaps allows for targeted interventions, helping students stay on track academically.

How to Prep for the SAT and ACT
Preparation is key to performing well on these tests. Here are some proven strategies that can help students get ready:

Know the Test Format
Take time to research the specific test you will be taking. Understand the format, timing, and types of questions you will encounter. This will allow you to feel more confident and less anxious on the test day.

Make a Study Plan
A well-organized study plan can make a huge difference in preparing for standardized tests. Set aside regular study time in your schedule, and divide your study sessions into manageable chunks. 

Practice with Sample Questions
One of the best ways to prepare is by practicing with sample questions and past test papers. You can find official practice tests and questions through the test administrators’ websites. Take these practice tests under timed conditions to simulate the actual test experience and to help build familiarity with the content.

Test Prep Resources
Luckily for students, here’s a wealth of resources available to help prepare for the SAT and ACT. Here are some of the best options:

Official Test Prep Materials
Start with the official prep materials provided by test creators. The College Board (for SAT) and ACT offer free and paid resources, including practice tests, study guides, and prep courses on their websites.

Online Study Platforms
Platforms like Khan Academy offer free video lessons and practice exercises tailored to the SAT. Magoosh and Quizlet also provide comprehensive study resources, including practice questions, flashcards, and video explanations.

Test Prep Books
Books from trusted publishers like Kaplan, The Princeton Review, and Barron’s are widely used for standardized test preparation. Copies of these books are often available to check out for free at your local library!

Tutors and Prep Courses
If you prefer one-on-one attention, consider hiring a tutor or enrolling in a prep course. Tutors can provide personalized help, focusing on your specific weaknesses. 

Study Groups and Peer Support
Don’t underestimate the power of studying with others. Joining a study group or participating in online forums can provide motivation, helpful tips, and different perspectives on problem-solving.

Standardized testing is a challenging yet essential part of the educational journey. Whether preparing for college admissions, state assessments, or subject-specific tests, understanding the types of exams, the benefits they offer, and how to best prepare for them can set students up for success.

Click here to discover even more college prep resources.

The post SAT & ACT 101 appeared first on Cincinnati Family Magazine.

In honor of spring, Penguin Random House has rounded up some superb stories showcasing all things NATURE! Read all about the terrific tales, below:

A Peek Out Your Window: My First Book of Weather
By Dylan Dreyer, Illustrated by Rosie Butcher
TODAY Show co-host, New York Times bestselling author, and meteorologist Dylan Dreyer has the perfect introduction to weather for your little reader. With rhyming language and lift-the-flap surprises, this interactive board book’s forecast calls for all smiles!
Buy here for $8.99

You Are a Wildlife Warrior!: Saving Animals & the Planet
By Bindi Irwin, Illustrated by Ramona Kaulitzki with Smriti Prasadam-Halls
World-renowned conservationist Bindi Irwin has a message for animal-loving kids: You can help protect the planet and all who call it home! Featuring exclusive Irwin family photos and animal fun facts.
Buy here for $19.99

Otto and the Story Tree
By Vivien Mildenberger
In this love letter to the magic of storytelling and connection, a lonely old bird tells stories to a seed, which eventually grows into a tree where animals gather to listen.
Buy here for $18.99

Rose Weaves a Garden
By Rashin Kheiriyeh
This heartfelt picture book about the love shared between generations–and the traditions that bind them–shows how a grandfather teaches his grandchild to weave a beautiful rug.
Buy here for $18.99

A Gift of Dust: How Saharan Plumes Feed the Planet
By Martha Brockenbrough, Illustrated by Juana Martinez-Neal
From two award-winning creators comes a picture book that reveals the hidden wonders of how Saharan Dust impacts the world: from slowing a hurricane to nourishing a rainforest.
Buy here for $19.99

The Boy and the Elephant
By Freya Blackwood
From an award-winning illustrator comes a tender, magical, and gorgeously rendered wordless picture book about a boy who saves the trees in the lot next door from being cut down.
Buy here for $19.99

Tate’s Wild Rescue
By Jenny Turnbull, Illustrated by Izzy Burton
A sweet, funny picture book about an animal-loving girl who invites wild animals to live in her house and be her best friend—with mixed results! A tale told through letters that is perfect for all animal enthusiasts!
Buy here for $18.99

Baba’s Peach Tree
By Marie Tang, Illustrated by See Kim
In this moving picture book, a migrant worker and his daughter, find good fortune in the form of a peach tree growing behind their house in rural China. Filled with stunning illustrations, this is a unique and poignant story about love, perseverance, and family.
Buy here for $19.99

The Great Lakes: Our Freshwater Treasure
By Barb Rosenstock, Illustrated by Jamey Cristoph
A stunning picture book about the five largest lakes in North America – how they formed, the importance of their abundant freshwater, and how they’ve become a national treasure – in the latest book from the author of Caldecott Honor book The Noisy Paint Box.
Buy here for $19.99

The World Is Ours to Cherish: A Letter to a Child
ByMary Annaïse Heglar, Illustrated by Vivian Mineker
This hopeful picture book–written in the style of a letter–gives kids an honest take on climate change and urges them to band together to help the planet.
Buy here for $18.99

The Wild
By Yuval Zommer
An exquisitely illustrated modern fable about protecting our planet, in which Earth is imagined as a beautiful, precious, and vulnerable creature called the Wild. From the author-illustrator of The Tree That’s Meant to Be.
Buy here for $18.99

Wacky Weather: All About Odd Weather Events
By Todd Tartly, Illustrated by Aristedes Ruiz and Alan Batson
Laugh and learn with fun facts about seasons, oddball weather events, space weather, and more—all told in Dr. Seuss’s beloved rhyming style and starring the Cat in the Hat!
Buy here for $9.99

The Lorax
By Dr. Seuss
Celebrate nature and the environment with Dr. Seuss and the Lorax in this classic picture book about sustainability and protecting the environment!
Buy here for $16.99

Hello, Sun!
By Lala Watkins
Inspired by never-before-seen sketches by Dr. Seuss, creator Lala Watkins builds a bright and playful story about a worm in this brand-new beginning reader that is the first in the Seuss Studios line of Beginner Books.
Buy here for $9.99

History Smashers: Earth Day and the Environment
By Kate Messner
Myths! Lies! Recycling scams? Discover the real story behind the first Earth Day celebration and some of the biggest US climate catastrophes–and their solutions! Don’t miss the award-winning History Smashers series as they get to the truth on the biggest environmental fibs!
Buy here for $9.99

Climate is Just the Start
By Mikaela Loach
A guide to tackling the climate crisis from a prominent activist working on the front lines! Mikaela Loach’s approach is one of HOPE and big-hearted optimism, inspiring kids and making them feel truly empowered to change the world.
Buy here for $17.99

An Immense World: Young Readers Edition
By Ed Yong, Illustrated by Rebecca Mills
The New York Times bestseller now available with beautiful full-color illustrations for young readers! Explore the amazing ways animals see, hear, and feel the world, with Pulitzer Prize winner Ed Yong.
Buy here for $24.99

Wrecker
By Carl Hiaasen
Wrecker needs to deal with smugglers, grave robbers, and pooping iguanas—just as soon as he finishes Zoom school. Another wild adventure in Carl Hiaasen’s Florida, now in paperback!
Buy here for $9.99

Turtles of the Midnight Moon
By Maria José Fitzgerald
When poachers threaten the island they love, two girls team up to save the turtles—and each other. An eco-mystery with an unforgettable friendship story at its heart from a fresh new voice in middle grade.
Buy here for $8.99

The Uninhabitable Earth: Life After Warming (Adapted for Young Adults)
By David Wallace-Wells
An exploration of the devastating effects of global warming—current and future—adapted for young adults from the #1 New York Times bestseller. This is not only an assessment on how the future will look to those living through it, but also a dire overview and an impassioned and hopeful call to action to change the trajectory while there is still time.
Buy here for $11.99

The post Nature Reads appeared first on Cincinnati Family Magazine.

Deciding what college you want to attend is a really big deal, so visiting colleges is a must. It’s crucial to get a feel for the campus, encounter the student life, learn about the academics and more. But how do you know if you’re covering all of your bases while you’re there? Here’s how to make the most of your college visits.

Plan Your Visit
To get the fullest college visit experience, plan your visit early and around your future college priorities. For example, if you love SEC football and that is an important factor in your college decision, try to visit that university on a Friday in the fall so you can stay and attend a home game on Saturday. If you’re visiting in the spring, view other types of sporting event schedules like basketball, baseball, and gymnastics on the school’s website. Many colleges offer an official “tour” day, and some even have “College for a Weekend” events. Colleges often close for federal holidays, which can largely impact your overall experience, so try to avoid holidays if possible. 

Set Up a Tour (or Three!)
As a former student recruiter, I can testify to the importance of scheduling a tour in advance. Look on the university’s website or call the admissions office to see what tour options are available. There will likely be a specific tour offered with your college, whether you are looking at Engineering, Liberal Arts, Agriculture, etc., in addition to the general campus tour. Sign up for both, because one will give you an overview of the school and campus whereas the other will focus on particular buildings you might frequent and/or the curriculum you will be taking in your major and/or minor. Check to see if you can schedule a tour at other buildings on campus you might frequent, too, like the recreation center or the residence halls.

Make Connections
One of the biggest perks of visiting a college is that you are literally surrounding yourself with students who attend the school you are considering. Eat at the food hall, walk through the student center, wander around campus and don’t be shy—make a friend or two while you explore! Ask them about their experience, as well as their favorite and least favorite aspects of the college. While everyone has a different experience, their comments can be revealing. It can be especially helpful down the road when you have specific questions that they might be able to answer.

Explore the Town
Some colleges are in the heart of a college town, and others are in the middle of the city. While the first year of your college experience may be spent primarily on campus, you will likely venture outside to the surrounding area at some point. The best way to decide if you’re a “city” or a “small town” kind of person is to see what each holds. Plus, it can be fun to peruse cute shops, vibey coffee shops and other popular local spots.

Maximize Your Time
Once you narrow down your list of colleges you want to visit, consult a map to see if you can knock out several visits in one trip. Not only will this likely be cost-effective, it can also prove helpful as you compare each campus to each other with a fresh eye. Another tip to making the most of your time is to prepare a list of questions beforehand, and add to it as you go. Knowing what’s valuable to your college experience and what factors weigh into your decision can help guide your questions and your visit. For instance, checking with the financial aid office about the cost of tuition and boarding and scholarship opportunities might be extremely impactful on your decision and your visit.

Keep Notes
The more colleges you visit, the more they’ll likely begin to all blur together. You might find yourself thinking, “How did I feel about the campus again?” or “Did I like their dorm room style?” To help prevent a few of the million little questions you may have for yourself, jot down your initial thoughts in a notebook or your phone’s notes app. Be honest with yourself about what you like, don’t like, are hesitant about and what makes you excited about the college. That way you can more fairly assess the colleges even if you aren’t viewing them the same week.

Remember: At the end of the day, college visits should be about envisioning your future. While it is easy to put a lot of pressure on your college visits, no visit will go “perfectly,” even if you plan it months in advance. Enjoy this season of discovery and have fun with it!

Discover even more College Prep information by clicking here.

The post Making College Visits Count appeared first on Cincinnati Family Magazine.

Spring Break has officially arrived here in the tri-state. If your family is looking for something fun and educational to get into this week (and beyond!), Cincinnati Family Magazine suggests planning a visit to the Cincinnati Fire Museum. With the dreary and chilly weather, the CFM is a wonderful adventure destination to stay warm and dry- it is actually housed within a historical, once operational, fire house— Engine House #45!

Did you know that Cincinnati is actually the birthplace of professional firefighting, which began in 1853!? Since then, many initiatives and contributions to fire safety have taken place right here in the Queen City. The Fire Museum is rich with a diverse array of historical artifacts that showcase the traditions and advancements of this unique field. There is so much to learn and the CFM is constantly making upgrades! Note from a been-there-done-that Momma: I love that there are little signs to denote what can and can’t be touched- no guess work needed.

Speaking of little hands that want to touch everything…  there are many, many opportunities for hands-on learning at this museum. A real highlight of the CFM for kids (and kids-at-heart) is the chance to go down a fire pole while wearing a firefighter costume, helmet and all! There is also a perfect little play area with books and fire house playsets. There is definitely plenty for kids to get into and stay engaged. In fact, another enticing activity is the monthly scavenger hunt where themed images are hidden amongst artifacts for families to find together. Find them all and receive a small prize from the gift store!

Of course fire prevention is an important lesson for children to learn, too. A visit to The Safe House allows kids the chance to reflect on what dangers are present in the average household, how to avoid fires and what escape plan to follow in case a fire does break out. Discussing escape plans and learning fire-safety tips now can save lives! So yes, a visit to this museum could pay off in the most meaningful of ways… by saving your life!

Upcoming Cincinnati Fire Museum event:
The CFM Egg Hunt will take place on Saturday, April 12th, 2025 from 9-10:30 a.m.
Join the Fire Museum to hunt for eggs amongst artifacts. Keep an eye out for the Easter Bunny, who will be hopping around to take photos with museum patrons.
Cost: $10, includes admission. Please bring a basket to hunt for eggs.

Enter-to-win a family four-pack of tickets to the Cincinnati Fire Museum Egg Hunt, here!

Codeword: CFMHUNT

Cincinnati Fire Museum
Located at 315 West Court Street in Cincinnati, OH
513-621-5553 | www.cincyfiremuseum.com  

Open Tuesdays-Saturdays: 10 a.m.-4p.m.
$10 Adults | $9 Seniors (65+) | $8 Children (7-17) | $5 Children (2-6)

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Spring has officially sprung and to greet the new season we’ve compiled a great list of stories from Michael Sampson Books and Brown Books Kids. From charming park-filled picnics and scenic bicycle rides, to butterflies, music shows and fashion, there is something on this list for everyone.

Max and Mama
By Laura Numeroff
Illustrated by Masha Sudovykh
Perfectly timed for Mother’s Day, New York Times best-selling children’s book author, Laura Numeroff delivers a fun-filled book about the special bond between a mother and son. Max and Mama are spending the day together! A delicious breakfast, a game of hide-and-seek, and a picnic at the park. But as they ride their bikes home, one of Max’s training wheels falls off—suddenly, this special day has a whole new adventure for Max and Mama to tackle!

A Maker of Dresses
By Violet Lemay and Michael Sampson
Award-winning authors, Violet Lemay and Michael Sampson present a colorful tale of joyful rhymes. Monday to Sunday, each day of the week is a new opportunity for fashion! Mondays are for dresses, Tuesdays for sports-jerseys and costumes, sweatpants and shorts! Young readers will delight as dressmaker Alexis leads them through a week of stitching, twirling, and big fashion dreams.

The Distraction Monster
By Ryan K. Woodall
Illustrated by Stevie Mahardhika
Ollie’s distraction monster brings him plenty of new ideas and adventures, like flying on the back of his dragon drawing to saving the passengers of a make-believe train-but he also takes Ollie’s attention away from his chores. How can he get anything done with the Distraction Monster making things even messier than before? Join Ollie as he learns to work with his distraction monster to have adventures while still completing tasks in this fun-filled story about managing ADHD.

Annabelle Bee and Now There are Three
By Debra Raso O’Connor
Illustrated by Stephen Lomazzo
Annabelle Bee and Benjamin Butterfly’s friendship is put to the test when Annabelle has to share Benjamin’s time with his little brother, Bailey. Bailey doesn’t even look like Benjamin — he’s a green and black caterpillar, and eats milkweed instead of nectar. How strange! But with just a little bit of patience, Annabelle may see that Bailey has more in common with her and Benjamin than she thought, and she may learn that sharing friendship can help bonds grow even stronger.

Dinky Donky Doo: A Brave Boy, His Loyal Protector, and a Journey of Hope
By David P. Kavanaugh
Illustrated by Albert Arrayás
When Jack has a hard time healing from a fall, he goes to the hospital and finds out that he has leukemia, a cancer of the blood. That’s when a donkey named Dinky Donkey Doo comes to stay at his house! Over three years, Jack battles cancer with Dinky right by his side, providing support to make the battle a little less scary each day. Based on the author’s son’s own life, Dinky Donkey Doo will help young readers learn about cancer, hockey, and the positive impact of therapy animals for kids.

Rainbow Bear
ByBill Martin Jr., Michael Sampson
Illustrated by Nathalie Beauvois
In the latest addition to New York Timesbestselling authors Bill Martin Jr and Michael Sampson’s beloved collection, Rainbow Bear is sure to delight both old fans and new with its vivid illustrations and charming characters. Young readers can learn the names of every color of the rainbow while following Little Bear as he wakes up from his hibernation and fills his hungry belly with berries!

You Can Throw a Party!
By Jan Gniffke
Illustrated by Rebecca Pintos
In You Can Throw a Party! Jan Gniffke inspires children to use their imagination and creativity to celebrate with others. From dressing up with your cat to having a party pretending it’s on Mars, this charming and vibrant book is perfect for social and emotional learning activities and serves as an important reminder that you’re worth celebrating.

Mommy, Will You Rub my Feet?
By Jessica Jones
Illustrated by Susana Ramírez Solís
Mommy, Will You Rub My Feet? helps parents and children learn to identify growing pains. Even after completing his usual getting-ready-for-bed routine, Taj can’t fall asleep. He tosses and turns and watches his clock, but nothing works. He goes to Mommy to figure out what’s wrong, because the aches and pains he feels aren’t like the usual scrapes and bruises from playing outside. Sweet and full of fun, this book is perfect for a before-bedtime read.

Puppy Dog, Puppy Dog, Do You Want to Play? 
By Bill Martin Jr., Michael Sampson
Illustrated by Marilyn Janovitz
A great read for Father’s Day, Puppy Dog, Puppy Dog illustrates a fun-filled day spent by a puppy dog and his dad. From hide and seek to dancing to tag, the duo decides to spend the day in each other’s company and make the very most of it. In doing so, they might just realize that the best parts of any day are the moments they get to spend with one another.

Find even more Brown Books Kids stories by CLICKING HERE.

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New Dino Buddies Program

Dino Buddies is now offering a program that really highlights their namesake! The brand-new Dinosaur Encounter Program will educate and entertain by putting a spotlight on prehistoric pals like T-Rex and Pachycephalosaurus. Participants will meet life-sized puppets and see real dinosaur fossils during this new encounter. Exciting add-ons include fossil dig kits, face painting and more. This encounter is ideal for parties, festivals, camps, classrooms and more. Visit Dino Buddies LLC. Facebook page or the new Dino Buddies website, dinobuddiesllc.org, to explore the new Dinosaur Encounter.

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Be sure to enter-to-win a $50 Gift Card to Gold Star Chili, February 19 and 20! Click here!!!

An annual partnership entering its sixth year, The Gold Star Teacher Award is a way to honor exemplary teachers in our community. This year’s campaign saw 1,068 nominations come in from the Tri-State from over 575 different public and private schools – from preschool to high school, a clear indication of just how valuable and appreciated our region’s educators are. This year’s grand prize winner will take home a prize pack worthy of the Gold Star Teacher of the Year title and more than $7,000 in prizes and experiences.

“The work teachers do daily extends beyond the classroom and truly leaves a lasting effect on the success of all students. These amazing educators deserve to be recognized,” said Gold Star President and CEO Roger David. “Every year, more and more incredible teachers are nominated, showcasing the hard work and devotion of teachers from across our region. With the help of our friends at The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati, we’re proud to be able to celebrate these remarkable teachers for inspiring students to be life-long learners and for helping them to fulfill their dreams.”

“Education lays the groundwork for a thriving future, and an inspiring educator who brings learning to life is essential to that students’ journey,” said Kim Kern, President and CEO of The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati. “Just as we at The Children’s Theatre strive to make stories leap off the page, our dedicated educators empower children to see their own potential, leading to an even bigger impact.”

Meet this year’s 10 finalists for the Gold Star Teacher Award:

Ms. Elizabeth Bravo

Newport Primary School

Second Grade

Mrs. Katie Colonel

Anderson High School

English Language Arts

Ms. Angelle Greene-Edwards

Mt. Airy Elementary School

Fourth Grade

Mrs. Kelly Moorman

Three Rivers Elementary School

Kindergarten – Fourth Grade STEM

Mrs. Jennifer Norsworthy

Milford High School

Teaching Professions

Ms. Hayley Powers

Cincinnati College Preparatory Academy

First Grade

Mrs. Tricia Richardson

St. Mary’s School

Kindergarten

Ms. Leigh Terry

Fairfield Central Elementary

Fourth and Fifth Grade Intervention Specialist

Mrs. Becky Torbeck

Indian Hill Elementary

Intervention Specialist

Mr. Chris Wheeler

Bellevue Middle and High School

Band Director

Voting runs through Friday, Feb. 28, 2025 and this year’s winner will be announced in late March 2025. Limit one (1) vote per person per email address and/or phone number per day during through 2/28/25.

To cast your vote for this year’s winner and/or for more information about the finalists, visit goldstarchili.com/goldstarteacher today.

WINSDAY CODEWORD:
WeLoveTeachers

ABOUT GOLD STAR

At Gold Star, we’ve been serving our guests delicious Cincinnati-style Chili since 1965 when the Daoud brothers bought a restaurant in the Cincinnati neighborhood of Mt. Washington. They wanted to make chili the right way: always fresh, never frozen and made in small batches to ensure quality. Crafted from our founders’ secret family recipe of 13 perfectly blended spices to make Cincinnati’s classic chili favorites

the Cheese Coney, and 3-, 4- and 5-Way Chili Spaghetti. Our menu offers something to make everyone happy from fresh grilled-to-order burgers, southern-style chicken sandwiches, vegetarian chili, double-decker deli sandwiches to loaded French fries, hand-tossed salads and 100% real ice cream shakes. It may not be what you would expect from a neighborhood chili parlor, but we’re not big on labels anyway. We invite all of our guests to come as you are, like what you like, and follow your own recipe. 

Today, Gold Star has 65 corporate- and franchise-owned locations throughout Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana and is actively developing new franchise opportunities in the region. For more information, visit www.goldstarchili.com. Gold Star is hiring for all positions with competitive pay and benefits; apply to join our team at: https://www.goldstarchili.com/careers. 

ABOUT THE CHILDREN’S THEATRE OF CINCINNATI

Now in our 105th season, The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati is the oldest professional theatre for young audiences in the country and is considered one of the top four children’s theatres in the nation. The mission of The Children’s of Cincinnati is to educate, entertain and engage audiences of all ages through professional theatrical productions and arts education programming. Our vision is to awaken a lifelong love of theatre in children and the young at heart. TCT brings art to life through three divisions, TCT MainStage at the Taft Theatre, TCT on Tour/WorkShops, and TCT Academy, serving more than 200,000 people each year. For more information visit www.thechildrenstheatre.com.

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