1. Get Outside Every Day: Even if it’s just for a short walk or playing in the yard, getting outdoors is key. The fresh air, natural light, and physical movement are great for their health. In Bedford, we’re lucky to have beautiful parks and nature trails, so taking advantage of these spaces helps make outdoor time a regular part of our routine.
2. Incorporate Nature into Learning: Whether it’s identifying different kinds of trees or looking for wildlife, I’ve found that outdoor learning is an effective way to keep kids engaged. A fun activity like leaf collection, where we identify and press leaves, can turn into a mini science lesson.
3. Lead by Example: Children learn by watching their parents, so I try to be a good role model by spending time outdoors, whether it’s gardening, hiking, or just sitting outside enjoying the view.
4. Create Nature-Based Play Activities: Organize scavenger hunts, bird watching, or even cloud watching. These activities are a fun way to engage their curiosity and help them develop a deeper connection to the world around them.

By making nature a regular part of their lives, we give our kids the tools to develop a lifelong appreciation for the environment, while boosting their overall health and happiness.

The post Connecting Kids with Nature: Simple Tips for a Healthier, Happier Childhood first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

HIGHLAND HILLS, OH — The Eastern Cuyahoga County Resource Fair on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. at Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C) Eastern Campus Student Services Building, 4250 Richmond Road, Highland Hills, provides local resources for those 0-22 years who are experiencing anxiety, depression, behavioral problems, academic struggles, developmental delays or disabilities. This is one of the largest resource fairs offered in Northeast Ohio.

According to a Health Policy Institute of Ohio December 2024 study, approximately one in four children, ages 3-17, across the country reported one or more mental, emotional, developmental or behavioral problems in 2021 and 2022.  In Ohio, that same study reports that a fifth (20%) of middle school students and a third (33%) of high school students in 2023 reported that their mental health was not good most or all of the time.

With more than 70 providers, the free Eastern Cuyahoga County Resource Fair offers a number of options for families looking for help. To register, visit https://www.connectingforkids.org/east-cuyahoga-fair or call/text: 440-570-5908.

Families who pre-register and attend the in-person event will be entered to win a $100 Amazon gift card. In addition, the first 100 families who stop by the Connecting for Kids table at the fair will receive a free stuffed animal courtesy of Wild Republic with a disability awareness pin and bookmark. Those who have limited time can drive up to the tent in front of the Tri-C Eastern Campus Student Services Building during fair hours to receive a grab & go bag of resources.

The process of finding help for a struggling child can be overwhelming. Parents and caregivers may not know where to start or what resources they need, so Connecting for Kids will have a table at the entrance of the fair staffed by those who can answer questions, narrow down options and point them in the right direction of the service providers that can help. There will also be a quiet/sensory area that will allow caregivers to take a break, if needed.

Attending a resource fair will actually save time for families in the long run. Rather than having to scour the internet or spend hours making phone calls, the resource fair offers a one-stop shop. Attendees can discuss insurance, services provided and explore program options directly with the provider. Having face-to-face conversations allows families to assess whether a provider is a good fit.

At the fair, families will find help for:

• Mental Health Concerns – A report by the Annie E. Casey Foundation found that nearly 1 in 8 Ohio kids received a diagnosis of anxiety or depression in 2020, up 42% from 2016 — the 10th-highest increase nationwide. The fair will provide mental health and behavioral health providers.
• Academic Issues – For students who are struggling, families can find tutors, academic programs, alternative schools and educational advocates.
• Disabilities & Developmental Delays – Find occupational, physical, speech and music therapists. Also represented will be adapted camps, sports, recreational programs and transition services. Presented in partnership with The Rotary Club of Cleveland. Platinum sponsors of the event include Community Fund Ohio, Cuyahoga Community College, Cuyahoga County Public Library and New Heights ABA.

Other resource fairs offered by Connecting for Kids this spring include:

Lorain County Resource Fair
Tuesday, March 18, 2025
6:00 – 8:00 p.m. 
Lorain County Community College (LCCC) Spitzer Conference Center, 1005 Abbe Road N., Elyria

The post Connecting For Kids Offers Free Easter Cuyahoga County Resource Fair NEXT WEEK on Wednesday, April 2 in Highland Hills first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

Taking a camera or even a smartphone outdoors for a nature photography session allows kids to explore their surroundings while learning about the world around them. This activity not only gets them outside, but it also sharpens their observation skills and boosts their creativity. Whether it’s capturing the first signs of spring or photographing local wildlife, the process of looking for interesting subjects in nature makes kids pay attention to details they might otherwise overlook.

To make it more educational, we’ve turned it into a learning project by researching different plants, animals, and insects we find in the area. For example, we use apps to identify flowers, trees, and birds we encounter during our walks around Bedford’s parks. The kids enjoy using their devices for something productive and hands-on, like creating a nature album or compiling a digital scrapbook.

This combination of outdoor activity and technology offers the perfect balance. It’s a great way to teach kids about the environment while incorporating the benefits of technology in a positive way. By the time spring rolls around, we’ll have a fun collection of images and even more appreciation for the natural world around us.

The post Combining Technology and Nature: Fun Outdoor Activities for Kids first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

Teaching children about love and kindness goes beyond just saying “I love you.” It’s about showing them how to express affection, care for others, and demonstrate empathy in everyday actions. Children learn best by example, so I try to practice kindness in my own actions, whether it’s offering a helping hand to a neighbor or complimenting someone. This helps them understand that love and kindness aren’t just for special occasions, but something to practice daily.

Activities to Teach Love and Kindness:

1. Kindness Jar: Have your kids participate in a “Kindness Jar” where they write down acts of kindness they’ve done each day. These could include helping a friend, sharing, or saying something positive. At the end of the week, read them aloud as a family to celebrate their efforts.
2. Heart-Shaped Cards: Let your children create homemade cards for their friends, family, or even local senior homes. This simple act teaches them the joy of giving.

Heart Health Activities: Encourage heart-healthy habits by getting your kids involved in fun activities like a family walk, dance party, or obstacle course. Explain how exercise helps keep their hearts strong. As we focus on kindness, we can also show them how to take care of the heart physically and emotionally.

By teaching love, kindness, and heart health this February, we can nurture our children’s well-being and foster positive habits for years to come.

The post Teaching Love and Kindness: February Activities for Kids in Bedford first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

1. Establish a Consistent Routine: After the holidays, getting back into a regular routine is key. Children thrive on consistency, so set up a daily schedule that includes time for homework, chores, play, and rest. This structure will help your kids feel secure and organized, especially after the disruption of holiday excitement.
2. Set Goals Together: The new year is a great time to set goals, and you can involve your kids in the process. Ask them what they’d like to achieve in the upcoming year, whether it’s learning something new, reading more books, or completing a craft project. Setting achievable goals helps teach them the value of planning and perseverance.
3. Encourage Indoor Physical Activity: The cold winter months can make it tough to keep kids active. Try to incorporate indoor activities, such as dance parties, scavenger hunts, or simple exercises like stretching and yoga. Not only will this help burn off energy, but it also fosters a healthy lifestyle.
4. Practice Self-Care: As we settle into the new year, don’t forget about your own well-being. Take moments for self-care, even if it’s just a few minutes of quiet time or a walk in one of Bedford’s parks. When you feel recharged, it’s easier to care for your family.

By starting the new year with these simple tips, you can set a positive tone for the months ahead and ensure your family thrives in 2025!

The post Starting the New Year Right: Childcare Tips for a Fresh Beginning in Bedford first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

With all the activities surrounding Christmas, keeping a consistent routine can help provide structure and stability for your kids. Set aside time for daily activities like meals, naps, and quiet time, while also building in holiday traditions like decorating the tree or baking cookies. This balance will help manage the holiday chaos and keep kids feeling grounded.

Get your children involved in holiday preparations to make them feel part of the excitement. Let them help with decorating the house, wrapping gifts, or selecting holiday music. Simple tasks, like setting the table or picking out ornaments, will keep them busy and give them a sense of accomplishment.

The holidays can get overwhelming, and it’s important to set realistic expectations. It’s okay if everything isn’t perfect. Embrace the imperfections and enjoy the time spent with loved ones. Explain to your kids the true meaning of Christmas, focusing on family time and creating memories over the commercial side of the holiday.

Amid the holiday hustle, don’t forget to take care of yourself. Schedule moments to relax, whether it’s enjoying a cup of hot cocoa or taking a walk in Bedford’s winter beauty. A happy parent means a happier holiday for everyone.

By preparing for Christmas with these tips, you can ensure a holiday season full of joy, love, and cherished memories with your family in Bedford.

The post Childcare Tips for a Fun and Stress-Free Holiday in Bedford first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

Share & Support Group: Parenting is Lonely

Join the Connecting for Kids staff to discuss the article, “Why Parenting Can Be Lonely, Even When You’re Rarely Alone.” We will explore the theme of isolation when raising a child with disabilities or mental health issues and how to build a village of support. For in-person programs, free, supervised children’s activities are available, but adults and children must register separately. connectingforkids.org/support
Wednesday, Nov. 6, 6:30 p.m.
Solon Branch of Cuyahoga County Public Library

Music Therapy & More

Join us for a hands-on program designed to teach families how to use music to improve their child’s academic, motor, communication, and social skills, as well as behavior. This program is designed for families and their children, ages 0–6 years, who have concerns about development. connectingforkids.org/music
Wednesday, Dec. 11, 6:30 p.m.
Solon Branch of Cuyahoga County Public Library

Virtual Sessions

Speaker Series: Autism 101

Nathan Morgan, MSSA, LSW, of Milestones Autism Resources, will present facts, debunk myths, and provide the most up-to-date terminology available on ASD, informed by experiences as both a licensed social worker and autism self-advocate. Learn about differing strengths, lagging skills, and accommodating ever-changing support needs. connectingforkids.org/speakerseries
Tuesday, Nov. 19, 6:30 p.m.
Virtual

Share & Support Group: Parenting is Lonely For Families of Children with Complex Needs

Join the Connecting for Kids staff to discuss the article, “Why Parenting Can Be Lonely, Even When You’re Rarely Alone.” We will explore the theme of isolation when raising a child with disabilities or mental health issues and how to build a village of support. For in-person programs, free, supervised children’s activities are available, but adults and children must register separately. connectingforkids.org/support
Tuesday, Dec. 3, 6:30 p.m.
Sponsored by United Cerebral Palsy of Greater Cleveland (UCP)
Virtual

Behavior Chat

Ochanya McRoberts-Wells, MEd, will lead a discussion guided by your questions on various behavior topics. Each session will focus on a new tool from our free Behavior Toolkit, but questions on any behavior concern are welcome. Content is geared toward children 18 months–6 years.
How Structure Can Prevent Meltdowns
Monday, Dec. 16, 6:30 p.m.
Virtual

About Connecting for Kids

Connecting for Kids provides resources, support, and community to families in Northeast Ohio who have concerns about their child. We support families who have children with mental health concerns, developmental delays, and disabilities as well as those facing major life changes. We offer programs, Resource Fairs, and a Family Resource Specialist (FRS) Program. Programs include support groups for adults, presentations by professionals, and hands-on programs that caregivers attend with their child. The FRS program offers a CFK staff member who meets with families and assists them in navigating resources. All programs are offered free to families.

The post Connecting for Kids November & December Programs in Solon & Three Virtual Opportunities first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

1. Costume Safety: When selecting or making costumes, prioritize safety. Choose costumes that are visible in the dark—bright colors or reflective materials are great options. Avoid long capes or accessories that could cause tripping. Make sure masks fit properly and allow for clear vision and breathing. Consider using face paint as a safer alternative.
2. Pumpkin Carving: Carving pumpkins is a fun tradition, but it’s important to supervise your children closely. For younger kids, consider using markers or stickers to decorate pumpkins instead of carving. For older kids, provide them with child-safe tools and assist them as needed.
3. Planning Trick-or-Treating: Discuss safety rules with your kids before heading out. Set a specific route that is well-lit and familiar, and consider going in groups. Make sure they know to wait for you at street corners and to look both ways before crossing the street.
4. Food Safety: Check all treats before letting your kids indulge. Discard any unwrapped or suspicious-looking items. If your child has food allergies, have a conversation about what is safe for them to eat.
5. Fun Activities: Beyond trick-or-treating, plan fun Halloween activities at home, such as watching spooky movies, making Halloween-themed snacks, or hosting a costume party.

By keeping these tips in mind, we can ensure that Halloween is not only fun but also safe for our children in Bedford. Happy Halloween!

The post Halloween Prep: Essential Childcare Tips for a Fun and Safe Celebration first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

Music Therapy & More

Join us for a hands-on program designed to teach families how to use music to improve their child’s academic, motor, communication, and social skills, as well as behavior. This program is designed for families and their children, ages 0 – 6 years, who have concerns about development.
connectingforkids.org/music
Solon Branch of Cuyahoga County Public Library
Wednesday, Oct. 23, 6:30 p.m.

Virtual Workshop

Adolescence and Advocacy: Healthcare Transition Planning for Puberty
Nikki Montgomery, MA, MEd, GPAC, will lead a discussion on how to begin to involve your child in planning and decision-making now to prepare for adolescent healthcare self-advocacy. She will also address how race, disability, and special health needs can affect healthcare outcomes.
connectingforkids.org/workshops
Monday, Oct. 21, 6:00 p.m.
Virtual

About Connecting for Kids

Connecting for Kids provides resources, support, and community to families in Northeast Ohio who have concerns about their child. We support families who have children with mental health concerns, developmental delays, and disabilities, as well as those facing major life changes. We offer programs, Resource Fairs, and a Family Resource Specialist (FRS) Program. Programs include support groups for adults, presentations by professionals, and hands-on programs that caregivers attend with their children. The FRS program offers a CFK staff member who meets with families and assists them in navigating resources. All programs are offered free to families.

The post Connecting for Kids October 2024 Programs in Solon & Virtual first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

Start by creating a simple daily schedule that includes time for meals, schoolwork, extracurricular activities, and rest. For example, having set times for breakfast, school drop-off, homework, and bedtime can help children understand what to expect and when. This not only helps with managing their behavior but also builds a sense of responsibility and self-discipline.

One practical approach is to use visual schedules for younger children. You can create a chart with pictures representing different activities and their times. This visual aid helps children anticipate what comes next and makes transitions smoother. For older kids, involving them in the creation of their own schedule can increase their engagement and willingness to follow it.

For instance, I’ve found that sticking to a bedtime routine has made bedtime a lot less stressful, especially with the new school schedule. We have a set sequence of activities—bath, storytime, and then lights out—that signals to my children that it’s time to wind down for the night. This routine has not only improved their sleep but also made our evenings much more peaceful.

Incorporating a routine into your daily life can make a significant difference, providing a calm and structured environment that benefits both parents and children as they navigate the school year.

The post The Power of Routine: A Simple Childcare Tip for a Smooth School Year first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.