Ohio Military Kids

4 Ways to Manage Holiday Stress for Military Youth

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The holiday season can be stressful for anyone, but especially for military kids. Whether it’s being separated from family or getting the perfect gifts for your family, those stressors are valid. Check out these stress management tips for military kids during the holiday season.

 

Maintain traditions or start new ones

Military youth may face a lot of uncertainty during the holiday season, and it may seem hard for them to stay grounded among the stress. To keep things consistent, be sure to maintain traditions with your friends and families during the holiday season! This can provide youth with a sense of community and continuity.

 

If you’re an older youth and are looking for ways to shake up the holidays (within reason, not Home Alone style), consider looking for new traditions for you and your family to enjoy. Check out this post from Parents to get some ideas for you and your family. 

 

Stay active

Staying active is a key role in improving mental health during any time of the year, but can prove to be difficult during the colder months. By participating in physical activity or exercise, your body releases endorphins that improves mood and emotions. It might be hard for youth to find the opportunity to prioritize physical activity during the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. This article by the CDC dives into ways to remain healthy and active during the holidays.

 

Look into ways to volunteer and give back

It’s easy to get caught up in your own holiday responsibilities, but a good way for youth to reduce their stress is by volunteering and giving back. Whether it’s a local, regional, or state level event, volunteering not only gives youth a sense of purpose but also benefits those the volunteerism is directed toward. Look into local volunteer opportunities or find state-wide events. Homeless shelters, food banks, and dog shelters are just a few of the organizations that need help more than ever during this time of year.

 

Practice mindfulness

The holidays are a fast paced time of the year, and it can seem like things are moving at the speed of light. One way for youth to remain grounded and in the moment is through the use of mindfulness. Mindfulness is the practice of being aware and in the moment via your thoughts and emotions. This is an intentional form of meditation that can help kids feel less overwhelmed during this busy season.

 

Check out these mindfulness exercises for kids from Waterford that are easy to implement during the holiday season.

Holiday Travel Hacks for Families

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Although the holiday day season is full of fun and joy, it can oftentimes be stressful for families for a number of reasons. One of the biggest stressors is travel. Jumping from city to city or state to state for holiday meals and traditions can cause a lot of unwanted stress on families. To mitigate some of that stress, check out this list of holiday travel hacks for families.

Use packing cubes
Whether you are flying or road tripping, packing cubes can be a great space saver when it comes to travel. If you’re looking for a cost-effective choice, check out Amazon’s 8 Set Packing Cubes for Suitcases. If you want to splurge a little, look into CalPak’s Packing Cubes Set (5 Pieces).

Save money on food and snacks by packing your own
You may dread the food options when it comes to traveling, endless drive throughs and fast-food restaurants. Avoid those less-than-desirable options by taking the initiative to plan and pack food/snacks for your family. Not only may you save money, but you’re giving your family more healthy options.

This can look different depending on the type of trip your family is taking. For short-term car rides, consider SELEWARE Portable Stackable Food Storage Containers for Snacks. However, if you’re traveling long distances and need something to hold larger amounts of food, check out the XXL-Large Insulated Cooler Bags with Zipper Closure.

Use laundry bags to keep dirty clothes separate
It can be frustrating trying to keep dirty clothes separate or organized when staying in hotel rooms or other spaces when traveling. To better organize laundry when away from home, take some laundry bags with you on your trip!

These laundry bags from Amazon don’t take up much space and are cost effective! Use them to reduce clutter and keep things separate when traveling.

Travel during “sleep time”
Young kids can get antsy and anxious during car rides and flights. To reduce the stress on them (and yourself), consider scheduling flights/car rides during times that they normally sleep during. Not only are you saving them some stress, but you’re not wasting any daylight during travel!

Look into discounts for military families
Regardless of any travel hacks, traveling can be expensive. American Forces Travel provides a comprehensive guide to all military discounts when it comes to travel. Check out their service to see what you and your family qualify for!

8 Winter Activites for Ohio Families

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OHIO WINTER ACTIVITIES FOR FAMILIES

Thanksgiving Break has passed and kids are on the downhill slope before Winter Break. Are you wondering what kind of opportunities Ohio has to offer to make this winter special for you and your family? Look no further than this list of Ohio winter activities for your family!

 

Mad River Mountain; Zanesfield, OH

“Located in Central Ohio, Mad River Mtn is Ohio’s largest ski resort and the perfect place to learn to ski.”

“Explore our expansive terrain offering, enjoy The Loft Music Series & après, indulge in a Buckeye S’more (free on Sundays!), or visit our family-friend bubly Tubing Park. Your winter staycation starts here, at Mad River Mtn.”

Learn more: https://www.skimadriver.com/ 

 

Woodland Lights; Dayton, OH

“Woodland Lights offers a fantasy land of holiday lights and displays along the half-mile paved path. The month-long festival has more lights, more vignettes, and the same winter whimsy that enchants thousands of visitors each year.”

Learn More: https://www.washingtontwp.org/recreation/woodland_lights/about_woodland_lights 

 

A Christmas Story House; Cleveland, OH

“A Christmas Story House, now restored to its movie splendor, is open year round to the public for tours and overnight stays. Directly across the street from the House is A Christmas Story Museum, which features original props, costumes and memorabilia from the film, as well as hundreds of rare behind-the-scenes photos. Among the props and costumes are the toys from the Higbee’s window, Randy’s snowsuit, the chalkboard from Miss Shields’ classroom and the family car. After reliving the movie at Ralphie’s house don’t forget to visit the museum gift shop for your own Major Award Leg Lamp and other great movie memorabilia. You can even shop through our online gift shop here. Proceeds from the gift shop and overnight stays help support and maintain A Christmas Story House & Museum”

Learn More: https://www.achristmasstoryhouse.com/ 

 

The Christmas Ranch; Morrow, OH

“Christmas is about making memories, and The Christmas Ranch is the perfect place to add that special touch to your holiday season. The lights, the music and the bonfires combine to create a place that is fun for every member of your family. But there is so much more to see and do! We have created a special place for Christmas celebrations in Morrow, Ohio. When you visit us, make sure you take some time to enjoy everything we have to offer! Visit our Christmas shops for gifts, decorations and mementos that you will treasure and pass down through your family! Watch your children’s eyes light up as they take in the lights, and tell Santa what they want for Christmas this year. Enjoy a treat made especially for you by Mrs. Claus at Santa’s Bakery and Cafe! There are so many ways to make this season bright!”

Learn More: https://www.thechristmasranch.com/ 

 

Winter Solstice Hike; Burr Oak State Park

“Join the naturalist for a 1.5-mile hike to enjoy evergreen plants on this shortest day of the year.  Enjoy hot chocolate and homemade cookies by the fire after the hike.  Wear sturdy hiking boots and dress for the weather.”

Learn More: https://ohiodnr.gov/home/news-and-events/all-events/parks-wc-events/SE-Ohio/WinterSolsticeHike-BurrOak-12-21-23 

 

The Legendary Lights of Historic Clifton Mill; Clifton, OH

“For 36 years Clifton Mill has celebrated the Christmas season in a very special way. Our light display, featured in Midwest Living and Ohio Magazine, is one of the country’s finest with over 4 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 which includes a Miniature Village, a Santa Claus Museum, a Toy Collection and a spectacular synchronized lights and music show that features the old Covered Bridge.”

Learn More: https://cliftonmill.com/christmas-lights/ 

 

Butch Bando’s Fantasy of Lights; Delaware, OH

This drive through light display in Delaware, OH allows you to stay in your car and enjoy the magic of Christmas time. During Military Appreciation Week (December 18th – 22nd), all active duty military members and spouses get in free.

Learn more: https://butchbandosfantasyoflights.com/ 

 

Castle Noel; Medina, OH

“Step into the fantasy world of Mark Klaus, creator of CASTLE NOEL. “America’s Largest Year Round Indoor Christmas Entertainment Attraction.” Experience 40,000 square feet of amazing installations, as seen on “Entertainment Tonight,” “PBS,” National, SyFy channels: “Profiles in History,” “The Today Show,” “Treasurer Hunters Road Show,” Fox8: “Kenny Crumpton,” WKYC, WOIO, WEWS and many more.”

Learn More: https://castlenoel.com/ 

For more ideas for activities during  the holiday season, visit https://ohio.org/travel-inspiration/articles/ohios-guide-to-winter-break-with-the-kids.

Thanksgiving Leftover Recipes for Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

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We’re counting down the days until Thanksgiving, but you might be wondering what you’re going to do with all of that leftover food. Don’t want to eat the same meal ever night for the next week? Luckily you’ve made it to a complete list for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, leftover meals for after the big feast.

 

Breakfast – Leftover Stuffing Waffles

Leftover Stuffing Waffles

Are you wanting to make the stuffing last a little bit longer past Thanksgiving Day? Throw that stuffing batter in the waffle maker, and you’ll have yourself some leftover stuffing waffles! Top your waffles off with mashed potatoes, gravy, and cranberry sauce.

Get the full recipe: https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchen/leftover-stuffing-waffles-5478358 

 

Lunch – Leftover Turkey and Stuffing Reubens

Leftover Turkey and Stuffing Reubens

Make the perfect lunch sandwich by incorporating your leftover turkey and stuffing. Pair the turkey and stuffing with sauerkraut, Russian dressing and Swiss cheese and you have a classic Reuben sandwich.

Get the full recipe: https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchen/leftover-turkey-and-stuffing-reubens-5478357 

 

Dinner – Giada’s Turkey Bolognese

Giada's Turkey Bolognese

Make an entirely new meal with this Turkey Bolognese! Incorporate shredded turkey with a classic bolognese sauce. 

Get the full recipe: https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/giada-de-laurentiis/turkey-bolognese-recipe-1944775c 

 

Bite Size Snack – Fried Stuffing Bites with Cranberry Sauce Pesto

Fried Stuffing Bites with Cranberry Sauce Pesto

Looking for an easy recipe that will create a yummy snack for you and your family? Check out these deep-fried stuffing bites that are served with cranberry pesto.

Check out the recipe: https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/sunny-anderson/second-day-fried-stuffing-bites-with-cranberry-sauce-pesto-recipe-2013854 

Listed adapted from The Food Network. For more recipes, visit https://www.foodnetwork.com/thanksgiving/leftovers/best-thanksgiving-leftover-recipes

6 Activities for Ohio Families During Thanksgiving Break

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The end of the year is quickly approaching, but not before the holiday rush! First up, we have Thanksgiving, and you might be looking for fun things to do with your family during the break. Here is a list of activities throughout Ohio for you and your family to enjoy.

 

Columbus Turkey Trot 

November 23rd, 9:00AM

“We are proud to partner with Easterseals Central and Southeast Ohio to bring you a fun and rewarding experience that brings together family and friends from across the country. A great Homage designed t-shirt, handsome finisher’s medal, and more.

Participants have their choice of a 5 mile or 2.5 mile course, plus a special “Dick’s Tot Trot” for kids 9 and under. Those who wish to participate remotely can also register through our virtual option. Bring a camera and a smile and we look forward to seeing you Thanksgiving morning!”

Learn more: https://www.columbusturkeytrot.com/ 

 

Tobogganing – Cleveland Metroparks

Opening November 24th

“The 2023-2024 Toboggan Season is scheduled to open Friday November 24, 2023. Reservations will begin Friday November 17 at Noon. Experience the icy thrill of tobogganing at The Chalet in Mill Stream Run Reservation, 16200 Valley Parkway Strongsville, OH 44136, located on Valley Parkway between Routes 42 and 82 in Strongsville (a short distance from both I-71 and the Ohio Turnpike). The twin, 700-foot refrigerated ice chutes operate with or without snow through late February, weather permitting.”

Learn more: https://www.clevelandmetroparks.com/parks/visit/activities/activity-types/tobogganing

 

Wildlights at the Columbus Zoo

November 17-January 7  |  Sunday-Thursday: 5:00PM-9:00PM  |  Friday-Saturday: 5:00PM-10:00PM

“The yuletide season comes alive as we celebrate the 35th Anniversary of Wildlights! This holiday event features millions of LED lights, animated musical light shows, and other holiday festivities that can only be found at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. 

Admission to Wildlights is included with your Zoo admission or with your Columbus Zoo and Aquarium Membership.”

Learn more: https://www.columbuszoo.org/wildlights?gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQiAmNeqBhD4ARIsADsYfTfugNldwJv05jiCijg2tFOPEmBwwm95JBWnhrSEHkchek-1AwaH9cUaAiBBEALw_wcB 

 

Cleveland Pops Orchestra Concert: Holiday Cheer!

November 26 2:00PM-4:00PM

 “Get in the holiday spirit with the Cleveland Pops and Pops Chorus! Listen to your favorite tunes, join in the sing-along and enjoy the famous Dancing Santas. Don’t forget to stop by the lobby to visit Santa Claus and adoptable puppies and kittens from area shelters plus more holiday magic!”

Learn more: https://www.thisiscleveland.com/events/event-calendar/cleveland-pops-orchestra-concert-holiday-cheer! 

 

Portsmouth Winterfest

November 17-December 31, 2023

“Open skating will be from Thursday to Sunday. Private Parties on Monday to Wednesday (click here to email for more info on party bookings). Ice hockey school is from Monday to Wednesday. Vendor booths and food trucks on weekends. FOP Christmas Store. Merchant Saturdays featuring 20 to 30 booths leading up to Christmas setup on National Church Residences Square. Choirs and bands on Sunday afternoons. Vehicle props and Manger Scene. Downtown lights on 2nd and Market Streets. Old-time trucks at 2nd and Courts streets. Grinch hut with hot chocolate, coffee, sweets, and s’mores. Jingle Bell 5k run/walk. Character Saturdays in December at the ice rink. Visit Winterfest and create memories. Click the links above for more information.”

Learn more: https://www.ohiotraveler.com/portsmouth-winterfest/ 

 

Dayton Holiday Festival

November 24th

“Dayton Holiday Festival in Dayton, Ohio:  The holiday season is everyone’s favorite time of year! With family, food, and entertainment, what’s not to love? Throw in some gingerbread homes, carriage rides, a holiday village, and one of the largest tree lighting ceremonies in the region and that’s only a taste of what the Dayton Holiday Festival has to offer! The Dayton Holiday Festival was started by Mrs. Virginia Kettering so that everyone in the community, regardless of their economic means, could enjoy the holiday season. And today, it still offers most activities to all for free. The festival has since expanded to include carnival and horse drawn carriage rides, holiday crafts in the Holiday Village and Gingerbread homes on display in the Old Courthouse! The fun doesn’t end there! The tree lighting will occur on Courthouse Square at 7:45pm and the Dayton Children’s Parade Spectacular and Lights will immediately follow. All this and much more at the Holiday Festival in downtown Dayton. Other activities are featured throughout December.”

Learn more: https://www.ohiotraveler.com/dayton-holiday-festival/ 

 

A Crock Pot Recipe to Keep You Warm this Fall – Gluten Free Lasagna Soup

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The weather is getting cooler and the days are shorter. Use this easy and cost efficient lasagna soup recipe to keep you and your family warm this fall!

Close up image of Lasagna Soup in a black bowl with a side of bread.

Ingredients:

  • Ground Beef
  • Onion 
  • Red Bell Pepper 
  • Petite Diced Tomatoes 
  • Crushed Tomatoes 
  • Minced Garlic
  • Italian Seasoning
  • Beef Broth (use chicken broth, if you prefer)
  • Gluten Free Rotini Pasta
  • Ricotta Cheese
  • Mozzarella Cheese 
  • Parmesan Cheese

Directions:

  1. Brown your ground beef by your preferred method. Drain the excess grease.
  2. Place your ground beef, onion, red bell pepper, diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, garlic, Italian seasoning and beef broth in the crock pot.
  3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours.
  4. Stir in the uncooked rotini pasta. Cover and cook on a medium high heat setting for 20-40 minutes until the noodles are cooked through to a tenderness you prefer.
  5. When serving your gluten free lasagna soup, top it off with a tablespoon of ricotta cheese, and a handful of mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
  6. Enjoy your yummy meal!

It isn’t necessary to cook the pasta before adding it to the sauce, as it will cook in the sauce. You can freeze the gluten free lasagna soup and reheat it for some delicious leftovers. 

Adapted from Eating on a Dime

Events and Celebrations for National Veterans and Military Families Month

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November is National Veterans and Military Families Month. During this month we recognize and pay homage to the sacrifices and services of our nation’s veterans and military families.

Throughout November there are many events and celebrations across the state of Ohio for veterans and military families. Continue reading to learn more about the events offered for National Veterans and Military Families Month.

 

Veterans Day Ride – Akron, OH

November 7

“Join us for a heartfelt appreciation of duty and service! Depart from the Akron Depot and embark on a memorable 90 minute excursion. As you journey through the picturesque Cuyahoga Valley National Park, spanning 26 miles of track, take in the beauty of nature while honoring those who have bravely served our nation. This special train ride is exclusively for veterans and up to three family members, and it’s absolutely free!”

Learn More: https://www.cvsr.org/national-park-scenic-3/ 

 

USO Wright-Patt Coffee Connections-Playdate Edition – Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Center

Nov 8, 2023 10:00 am

“Military spouses are encouraged to gather at the USO to hang out with other mil spouses, meet new friends, enjoy coffee and tasty treats! Children welcome, but not required! 10am-12pm Wednesday, 8 Nov, USO Wright-Patterson.”

Learn More: https://ohio.uso.org/events/313 

 

Veterans Day Event & Expo – Canton, OH

Nov 11, 2023, 9:00 am – 1:00 pm 

“The day will include:

  • Free admission to all U.S. Service Members, National Guard members and Veterans plus one (1) guest.
  • Free admission for Blue Star Mothers and Gold Star Families.
  • A free commemorative Veterans Day pin, while supplies last.
  • 20% discount at the Hall of Fame Store.
  • The Hall will also present a Veterans Day Expo from 9:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. featuring Veteran-based services and organizations.

A special giveaway of a Salute to Service helmet will be raffled off. Guests will receive a checklist at the point of entry — every booth must be visited to enter the raffle.”

Learn More: https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/62062/ 

 

Veterans Day Ceremony at the National Veterans Memorial and Museum – Columbus, OH

Sat. Nov 11, 2023, 11:00 am – 12:00 pm 

“Join us to honor and celebrate the selfless service of millions of Veterans who have defended our freedoms and way of life during our annual Veterans Day Ceremony.”

Learn More: https://www.va.gov/outreach-and-events/events/61777/ 

 

Veterans Day Ceremony – Beavercreek, OH

Saturday, November 11, 2023 2:00 p.m.

“Every year, the City of Beavercreek hosts a special Veterans Day Ceremony to honor the brave men and women who have served our country.”

Learn More: https://www.beavercreekohio.gov/810/Veterans-Day-Ceremony 

 

USO Ohio Dandelion Club Virtual Book Club – “Otto Tales – Today is Thanksgiving” – Virtual

Nov 18th, 2023 11:00 am

“Join us for the USO Military Child Youth Dandelion Club Book Club – Virtual -Saturday, November 18, 2023, at 11 am. This month’s book is “Otto’s Tales – Today is Thanksgiving” by Prager U. This program is for Military Kids (dependents) of currently serving (active, guard and reserve) military members. Please contact tkarabanovs@uso.org with any questions”

Learn More: https://ohio.uso.org/events/305 

 

For more events and celebrations, visit:

https://news.va.gov/125526/find-your-veterans-day-events/ 

https://ohio.uso.org/events 

Safety Tips for Families This Halloween

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The ghouls and goblins out and about on Halloween are all in good fun, but no one wants to be spooked when it comes to their kids on the upcoming holiday. Here are some tips and tricks to keep your family safe this trick-or-treating season.

For kids 12 and under

  • Dress your kids in clothing that is easily visible at night time or add features to make them visible. Light-colored costumes will make it easy to keep an eye on your kiddos. Furthermore, you can give them glow-in-the-dark bracelets or add reflective tape to their trick-or-treat bags to make sure they’re visible.
  • Masks, wigs, and beards can make it hard for kids to breathe and see. Consider alternatives like face paint and makeup!
  • Make sure your kids’ costumes fit well in order to prevent falls. Oversize shoes and long costumes can be a tripping hazard.
  • In the case that you and your kids do get separated, make sure they are equipped with a name tag that includes your contact information. 

For kids 12 and up

  • Check with your older kids who are trick-or-treating alone and ensure they know their planned route. Familiarize yourself with the route in the case of an emergency.
  • Make sure older kids who plan on going trick-or-treating without adult supervision go with a group and stay with that group for the duration of the evening.
  • Let them know that they should never enter a stranger’s house or car while trick-or-treating. Additionally, encourage them to only go to houses with porch lights on.
  • Consider letting your older kids carry cell phones or other communication devices. This way, they can get in contact with you at any point while they’re trick-or-treating.

For all kids

  • On Halloween, kids are more likely to get hit by cars than any other day of the year. With this in mind, make sure your kids know to stay on sidewalks, only cross streets at crosswalks, and walk facing traffic if they absolutely have to walk on roads.
  • Supply your kids with flashlights or glow bracelets/necklaces.
  • Stay local and trick-or-treat in neighborhoods/communities that you are familiar with.
  • Check to make sure all the treats they receive are sealed, and throw out anything that looks to be tampered with or damaged. Pay attention to candy that may be a choking hazard for younger kids.

Adapted from:

“Halloween Safety Tips (for Parents) – Nemours Kidshealth.” Edited by Melanie L. Pitone, KidsHealth, The Nemours Foundation, Oct. 2022, kidshealth.org/en/parents/halloween.html.

4 Tips on Getting Through The Mid-Semester Slump

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Are you a high school or college student that is feeling overwhelmed? Are you spending all your time studying for midterms and feeling burnt out? Do you just have a lack of motivation when it comes to school? You might be experiencing a phenomena known as the “Mid-Semester Slump.” According to UC Berkeley, the Mid-Semester Slump is the point of semester when students start to lose momentum in their classes, and heavy work loads begin to catch up with them.

So how can you overcome the Mid-Semester Slump? This blog features ideas and methods for students to get their head back in the game for the back-half of the semester!

–

Prioritize Selfcare

According to The Auburn Plainsmen, an important step to combating the Mid  Semester Slump is taking time for selfcare. Endless hours spent studying and doing homework can cause a lot of tension. So, it can be helpful to schedule a massage or spa day. Afterwards, you might feel fresh with a new perspective on the rest of the school year!

If a spa day or massage isn’t for you, Tulane University suggests taking a walk or utilizing at-home selfcare. A simple 20-minute break from your computer screen or textbooks allows you to come back rejuvenated!

 

Be Okay With Logging Off

Distractions come from all over, but especially from cellphones and internet usage. You might be prolonging your study sessions with by scrolling on social media as a procrastination tool. Tulane University explains its important to put your phone away during study/homework time. To fully increase productivity, consider putting your phone in an entirely different room when you’re doing school work.

 

Hold Yourself Accountable

Actively finding time to study with peers or having progress check-ins with family members can help you achieve your goals, according to Tulane University. This method of accountability makes your goals feel real. Similarly, Tulane University suggests writing down a to-do list or reminders. Take time to speak to your  guidance counselor or advisor about your goals and academics. These professionals can help you make sense of your stressors and get you back on track.

 

Ask For Help

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, it can be useful to have someone by your side to help you out and put things into perspective. According to Truett McConnell  University, asking for help from teachers and professors can be significant aid when getting through the Mid-Semester Slump. Similarly, taking advantage of  free student services (on a school-by-school basis), can push you through the slump.

–

This isn’t a comprehensive list, and there are so many more methods to getting through the Mid-Semester Slump. It’s important to remember you’re never the only one struggling, and the people in your life are there as a support system. Plus, don’t forget that Winter Break is right around the corner!

 

References:

“Overcoming Midsemester Slump.” Overcoming Midsemester Slump | Center for Teaching & Learning, teaching.berkeley.edu/overcoming-midsemester-slump. Accessed 19 Oct. 2023.

Parson, Mackenzie. “Ways to Avoid the Mid-Semester Slump.” The Auburn Plainsman, 1 Mar. 2023, www.theplainsman.com/article/2023/03/ways-to-avoid-the-mid-semester-slump#:~:text=The%20%E2%80%9Cmid%2Dsemester%20slump%E2%80%9D,easy%20to%20get%20burned%20out.

“Preventing the Mid-Semester Slump.” Tulane School of Professional Advancement, 10 June 2020, sopa.tulane.edu/blog/preventing-mid-semester-slump#:~:text=This%20is%20the%20time%20in,practices%20and%20tips%20can%20help.

Walker, Zach. “8 Ways to Conquer the Mid-Semester Slump.” Truett McConnell University, truett.edu/blog/archive/8-ways-to-conquer-the-mid-semester-slump/. Accessed 19 Oct. 2023.

Free 4-H Project Books For Ohio Military Families – Order by 10/20

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We are excited to announce that once again, Ohio Military Kids is offering free projects books for you and your family! Continue reading to learn more about how you can get your hands on a free project activity book.
Our partners at Ohio 4-H are proud to present a collection of project books to military families – at no cost to you! Ohio Military Kids is an organization that benefits from the youth development education offered from Ohio 4-H and the organization resources contributed from Ohio National Guard Family Readiness and Warrior Support. Together, we hope that your families may benefit from the education opportunities found in the collection of project book titles listed in this survey.
Here are the books we are offering:
  • Scrapbooking: A 4-H Guide to Preserving Memories – “This project is designed for youth with limited or no experience in scrapbooking. Requires completion of project activities and creation of a scrapbook. Can be repeated by completing additional activities and a new scrapbook each year.”
  • Superhero You – “Who are you? What makes you unique? Find your superpowers and those of your family and friends. Discover your super future by exploring how to put your super skills to work. Have fun and learn about your self-identity.”
  • Let’s Start Cooking – “This project takes a fresh look at basic cooking and baking skills. You’ll learn about kitchen equipment and food prep, and how to read recipes and measure ingredients. Then you’ll tackle how to slice and dice food, and how to cook in a microwave oven, on the stove and in a conventional oven, all while keeping safety in mind. Appropriate for members of all ages with little or no cooking or baking experience.”
  • Science Fun with Kitchen Chemistry – “Join the Terrestrial Alien Defense Academy and figure out how to outsmart the aliens by doing experiments in your kitchen. Learn about what matter is and how it changes form; explore the different properties of matter; find out about acids and bases; and discover how everyday items and kitchen ingredients can be used in cool tests!”
  • Pantry Panic – “This advanced-level project is for community-minded youth who want to take a step back and look at food in a broader context. “Food insecurity” is an issue affecting much of the world’s population and many people right here in our own communities. Learn about hunger in your community and develop the skill and imagination to prepare healthful meals from ingredients you have on hand or might receive from a food pantry. Consider it a challenge!”
Please note that we have very limited supply of each book. You may only select one of each book per order. If a book has “sold out” it will not be displayed as an option.
Requests must be placed by Friday, October 20. Orders will then be processed and sent to families approximately 3-5 weeks after the order deadline.
For additional information about this program or enrollment in Ohio 4-H, please contact State 4-H Healthy Living and Ohio Military Kids Student Assistant, Matthew Swearingen (swearingen.96s@osu.edu)