A Note From Our President:
June 1st, 2023
The end of the school year also marks the end of my time as HPP President (and my other volunteer role as McDowell PTO Head Rep). I am grateful for the time I have had to serve as leader of these two groups over the past two years and all of the relationships I have formed as a result. As a former kindergarten teacher and children’s librarian that most often worked with babies, toddlers, and preschoolers, I’m feeling a little unsure about what the future will hold for me; my daughters are growing up and have quickly moved out of this stage of early childhood that I am most familiar with. You know what they say: “Babies don’t keep!”
Fortunately, I will serve on this board for another year as advisor and also get to oversee our 50th Anniversary fundraising project to build a safety town playground at McDowell, so I’m not completely out of the early childhood scene just yet. And after that, who knows? You may see Miss Amy out reading to children again one day. In the meantime, be sure to keep cuddling your little one(s) and reading them all of their favorites again (and again and again)!
While June and July don't hold any officially planned events for our group, join our private Facebook group to make plans and meet up with other member families at the many local libraries, playgrounds, and splash pads in the area. Also be sure to check out the Feature of the Month below to find out about some of the family friendly events that will be taking place around town.
Finally, I want to say welcome, thank you, and best wishes for a wonderful year to Rachael DeStefanis, our new President, and Rachel Joyce, who has taken on the newly created Vice President role. You two are going to do a wonderful job leading this organization. I am excited to see what the future holds for HPP and families with young children in our community.
- Amy Andrews, HPP Advisor
advisor@hudsonpreschoolparents.org
The end of the school year also marks the end of my time as HPP President (and my other volunteer role as McDowell PTO Head Rep). I am grateful for the time I have had to serve as leader of these two groups over the past two years and all of the relationships I have formed as a result. As a former kindergarten teacher and children’s librarian that most often worked with babies, toddlers, and preschoolers, I’m feeling a little unsure about what the future will hold for me; my daughters are growing up and have quickly moved out of this stage of early childhood that I am most familiar with. You know what they say: “Babies don’t keep!”
Fortunately, I will serve on this board for another year as advisor and also get to oversee our 50th Anniversary fundraising project to build a safety town playground at McDowell, so I’m not completely out of the early childhood scene just yet. And after that, who knows? You may see Miss Amy out reading to children again one day. In the meantime, be sure to keep cuddling your little one(s) and reading them all of their favorites again (and again and again)!
While June and July don't hold any officially planned events for our group, join our private Facebook group to make plans and meet up with other member families at the many local libraries, playgrounds, and splash pads in the area. Also be sure to check out the Feature of the Month below to find out about some of the family friendly events that will be taking place around town.
Finally, I want to say welcome, thank you, and best wishes for a wonderful year to Rachael DeStefanis, our new President, and Rachel Joyce, who has taken on the newly created Vice President role. You two are going to do a wonderful job leading this organization. I am excited to see what the future holds for HPP and families with young children in our community.
- Amy Andrews, HPP Advisor
advisor@hudsonpreschoolparents.org
Introducing our 2023-2024 Hudson Preschool Parents Board:
President
Rachael DeStefanis
Vice President
Rachel Joyce
Advisor
Amy Andrews
Advertising Chair
Shaun Castillo
Event Coordinators
Ashley Chaffee
Stephanie Hardie
Jackie Manson
Ashley Rispinto
Hospitality Chair
Bridget Braham
Membership Coordinator
Sarah Louise Gribble
Newsletter Editor
Ashton Roberts
Philanthropy Co-Chair
Ali Augsburger
Emily Brady
Shannon Eizenberg
Leslie Strachan
Publicity Chair
Lindsey Meyer
Secretary & Sunshine
Meghan Kestner
Social Co-Chair
Sarah Goel
Maureen Miezin
Special Projects Co-Chair
Molly Grove
Megan Kirby
Treasurer
Emily Pleat
Website
Erin Graessle
With tremendous gratitude to our outgoing board members:
Janie Augsburger
Laura Claxton
Kalyn Dohner
Katie Gallagher
Lavanya Govindarajan
Justin Hayes
Charlotte Herscher
Julia Jolliff
Jaimie Kokrak
Stephanie Kokrak
Terry Lance
President
Rachael DeStefanis
Vice President
Rachel Joyce
Advisor
Amy Andrews
Advertising Chair
Shaun Castillo
Event Coordinators
Ashley Chaffee
Stephanie Hardie
Jackie Manson
Ashley Rispinto
Hospitality Chair
Bridget Braham
Membership Coordinator
Sarah Louise Gribble
Newsletter Editor
Ashton Roberts
Philanthropy Co-Chair
Ali Augsburger
Emily Brady
Shannon Eizenberg
Leslie Strachan
Publicity Chair
Lindsey Meyer
Secretary & Sunshine
Meghan Kestner
Social Co-Chair
Sarah Goel
Maureen Miezin
Special Projects Co-Chair
Molly Grove
Megan Kirby
Treasurer
Emily Pleat
Website
Erin Graessle
With tremendous gratitude to our outgoing board members:
Janie Augsburger
Laura Claxton
Kalyn Dohner
Katie Gallagher
Lavanya Govindarajan
Justin Hayes
Charlotte Herscher
Julia Jolliff
Jaimie Kokrak
Stephanie Kokrak
Terry Lance
May 1st, 2023
Even though my time as President of Hudson Preschool Parents is coming to an end, you'll still hear from me occasionally, as I'm fortunate to continue serving on the board as Advisor and chairing our 50th Anniversary Committee.
At the Children's Fair last month, $1,036 was raised from the sale of concessions and raffle tickets for the Hudson Preschool Parents 50th Anniversary Fund. Thank you so much for your donations! Hopefully while you were at the fair you were able to take a peek at the spec house that was on display. Last month, the fund received a $3,000 grant from the HudsonCommunity Foundation and as of today, the fund has raised just over $18,000. Click here to learn more about the safety village project or make a donation to the fund.
- Amy Andrews, HPP President
president@hudsonpreschoolparents.org
Even though my time as President of Hudson Preschool Parents is coming to an end, you'll still hear from me occasionally, as I'm fortunate to continue serving on the board as Advisor and chairing our 50th Anniversary Committee.
At the Children's Fair last month, $1,036 was raised from the sale of concessions and raffle tickets for the Hudson Preschool Parents 50th Anniversary Fund. Thank you so much for your donations! Hopefully while you were at the fair you were able to take a peek at the spec house that was on display. Last month, the fund received a $3,000 grant from the HudsonCommunity Foundation and as of today, the fund has raised just over $18,000. Click here to learn more about the safety village project or make a donation to the fund.
- Amy Andrews, HPP President
president@hudsonpreschoolparents.org
April 1st, 2023
Our annual Week of the Young Child will be celebrated by Hudson Preschool Parents from Monday, April 17-Friday, April 21. We will be hosting outings at a number of locations in town and nearby, including fun on the farm at Hidden Pastures, introductory ninja, gymnastics, yoga and dance classes, making tasty treats at Zeppe’s Pizzeria and Coldstone, as well as a members-only story time and so much more! We hope you can join us for this fun filled week, which concludes with our 36th Annual Children's Fair!
The Children's Fair is free and open to all families. (If you'd like, come prepared with cash for raffle or vendors with purchases available.) With a DJ, food, entertainment such as a bounce house and face painter, raffle items, familiar characters and local vendors with informational booths, it’s sure to be a fun-filled outing for the entire family! Visit our website for a listing of the entertainment schedule, participating vendors, and raffle donors. We can't wait to see you there!
Between Week of the Young Child and the Children's Fair, it's all hands on deck for our board members this time of year and collaboration is key. I appreciate their willingness to take time out of their already busy schedules (let's not forget, parents with young children of their own are making all of this fun happen) to plan and coordinate a variety of events for all of us. Extra special thanks to our Events and Children's Fair teams! We wouldn't be enjoying any of this without your time and effort.
- Amy Andrews, HPP President
president@hudsonpreschoolparents.org
Our annual Week of the Young Child will be celebrated by Hudson Preschool Parents from Monday, April 17-Friday, April 21. We will be hosting outings at a number of locations in town and nearby, including fun on the farm at Hidden Pastures, introductory ninja, gymnastics, yoga and dance classes, making tasty treats at Zeppe’s Pizzeria and Coldstone, as well as a members-only story time and so much more! We hope you can join us for this fun filled week, which concludes with our 36th Annual Children's Fair!
The Children's Fair is free and open to all families. (If you'd like, come prepared with cash for raffle or vendors with purchases available.) With a DJ, food, entertainment such as a bounce house and face painter, raffle items, familiar characters and local vendors with informational booths, it’s sure to be a fun-filled outing for the entire family! Visit our website for a listing of the entertainment schedule, participating vendors, and raffle donors. We can't wait to see you there!
Between Week of the Young Child and the Children's Fair, it's all hands on deck for our board members this time of year and collaboration is key. I appreciate their willingness to take time out of their already busy schedules (let's not forget, parents with young children of their own are making all of this fun happen) to plan and coordinate a variety of events for all of us. Extra special thanks to our Events and Children's Fair teams! We wouldn't be enjoying any of this without your time and effort.
- Amy Andrews, HPP President
president@hudsonpreschoolparents.org
March 1st, 2023
The seasons are changing this month and so is HPP! I’m excited to announce we have a few board member openings for the 2023-2024 school year with some updated position titles. Click through the linked position descriptions to read a quick blurb for each role and reach out to myself or Laura Claxton at advisor@hudsonpreschoolparents.org if you’re interested in learning more! We would love to discuss open positions and find a place for you on the board.
Save the date for the Children’s Fair, happening on Saturday, April 22 at East Woods Intermediate School from 9 am-12 pm. We’re celebrating the 50th anniversary of our organization with lots of fun planned for the kiddos!
In the last month, I read three books for myself (Remarkably Bright Creaturesby Shelby Van Pelt, Spare by Prince Harry and We All Want Impossible Thingsby Catherine Newman if you’re looking for any new reads - I enjoyed them all for very different reasons!), which caused me to spend much less time browsing articles on my phone.
Here’s just a couple links I’ve been reading lately:
This headline caught my eye because lets be honest, this can be a tricky time to navigate! 15 of the Best Quiet Time Toys for Kids Who Have Dropped Their Naps (Cubby)
Play therapy right at the dining room table! (The author’s children are older but I love the suggestion to continue using a beloved children’s toy in this way.) A Surprising Way to Help Kids Open Up About Feelings (Cup of Jo)
- Amy Andrews, HPP President
president@hudsonpreschoolparents.org
The seasons are changing this month and so is HPP! I’m excited to announce we have a few board member openings for the 2023-2024 school year with some updated position titles. Click through the linked position descriptions to read a quick blurb for each role and reach out to myself or Laura Claxton at advisor@hudsonpreschoolparents.org if you’re interested in learning more! We would love to discuss open positions and find a place for you on the board.
- Membership Coordinator
- Newsletter Editor
- Philanthropy Co-Chair (1)
- Social Co-Chair (1)
- Special Projects Co-Chairs (2)
- Treasurer
Save the date for the Children’s Fair, happening on Saturday, April 22 at East Woods Intermediate School from 9 am-12 pm. We’re celebrating the 50th anniversary of our organization with lots of fun planned for the kiddos!
In the last month, I read three books for myself (Remarkably Bright Creaturesby Shelby Van Pelt, Spare by Prince Harry and We All Want Impossible Thingsby Catherine Newman if you’re looking for any new reads - I enjoyed them all for very different reasons!), which caused me to spend much less time browsing articles on my phone.
Here’s just a couple links I’ve been reading lately:
This headline caught my eye because lets be honest, this can be a tricky time to navigate! 15 of the Best Quiet Time Toys for Kids Who Have Dropped Their Naps (Cubby)
Play therapy right at the dining room table! (The author’s children are older but I love the suggestion to continue using a beloved children’s toy in this way.) A Surprising Way to Help Kids Open Up About Feelings (Cup of Jo)
- Amy Andrews, HPP President
president@hudsonpreschoolparents.org
February 1st, 2023
There is a lot happening behind the HPP scenes these days! Our Advisor has been busy discussing the 2023-2024 board with current board members, planning for the annual Children’s Fair (happening on Saturday, April 22) is underway with the committee, and the Events team is already coordinating outings and field trips with local businesses for Week of the Young Child (happening Monday, April 17-Friday, April 21).
If you’re new to Hudson Preschool Parents, or joined us in the last couple years, let me be one of the first to tell you that these events are special to our community and getting back to them in a post-pandemic world hasn’t always been easy but our board members have made it happen! I am grateful for all of their time and dedication.
Since I have been working on a couple of events that celebrate literacy for the school district, most of what I have been reading recently has to do with that topic. You can celebrate at home by doing something you’re likely already doing: reading to your child! World Read Aloud Day takes place on Wednesday, February 1.
- Amy Andrews, HPP President
president@hudsonpreschoolparents.org
There is a lot happening behind the HPP scenes these days! Our Advisor has been busy discussing the 2023-2024 board with current board members, planning for the annual Children’s Fair (happening on Saturday, April 22) is underway with the committee, and the Events team is already coordinating outings and field trips with local businesses for Week of the Young Child (happening Monday, April 17-Friday, April 21).
If you’re new to Hudson Preschool Parents, or joined us in the last couple years, let me be one of the first to tell you that these events are special to our community and getting back to them in a post-pandemic world hasn’t always been easy but our board members have made it happen! I am grateful for all of their time and dedication.
Since I have been working on a couple of events that celebrate literacy for the school district, most of what I have been reading recently has to do with that topic. You can celebrate at home by doing something you’re likely already doing: reading to your child! World Read Aloud Day takes place on Wednesday, February 1.
- Reading tips by age or grade level, as well as for parents of children with disabilities, in multiple languages. Reading Tips for Parents (in Multiple Languages) (Reading Rockets)
- The article title explains it all. 6 Ways to Make Reading with Kids Even More Fun (Cubby)
- A little dated, but the content still applies! Top 5 Tips Every Parent Needs to Rock the Read-A-Loud (Scholastic)
- Wondering about the origin story of this "new" holiday? Read more here: Why World Read Aloud Day? (LitWorld)
- Amy Andrews, HPP President
president@hudsonpreschoolparents.org
January 1st, 2023
Happy New Year, families! I hope your holidays were exactly what you and your family needed at the end of the year. Our break was full of travel, changed plans, illnesses, rest, and joy. All of the thing you can expect for a family with young children during the holidays, right?
More details about the Safety Village at McDowell will also be shared as they become available. We hope to have architect renderings by the end of the month. If you or someone you know would be interested in supporting this project, please email me at anniversary@hudsonpreschoolparents.org.
Here’s a few links I’ve been reading, listening to, (even watching!) and thinking about lately:
- Amy Andrews, HPP President
president@hudsonpreschoolparents.org
Happy New Year, families! I hope your holidays were exactly what you and your family needed at the end of the year. Our break was full of travel, changed plans, illnesses, rest, and joy. All of the thing you can expect for a family with young children during the holidays, right?
More details about the Safety Village at McDowell will also be shared as they become available. We hope to have architect renderings by the end of the month. If you or someone you know would be interested in supporting this project, please email me at anniversary@hudsonpreschoolparents.org.
Here’s a few links I’ve been reading, listening to, (even watching!) and thinking about lately:
- A very manageable purge list. 3 Kids Things You Can Get Rid of In the New Year (Cubby)
- I'm still reading, but think this book should required reading for parents in the US. Essential Labor: Mothering as Social Change by Angela Garbes (See an interview with the author discussing the book on The Daily Show with Trevor Noah here.)
- An online craft kit company turned local (to St. Paul, Minnesota) business that sells clever and unique toys. I know, you can’t possibly imagine buying your kids another thing right now, but hear me out - Valentine’s Day will be here before you know it! Fair Play Projects and Toys (Fair Play Projects)
- If you only listen to one (2-part) parenting podcast this year, make it this one. Happier Parents, Happier Kids Pt 1: Your Child Isn’t a VIP or a Fragile Vase and Happier Parents, Happier Kids Pt 2: Letting Children Try and Fail (The Happiness Lab with Dr. Laurie Santos)
- Sure it did, but how? File this under: Things that make me go, “Hmm…” The Year Without Germs Changed Kids (The Atlantic)
- Amy Andrews, HPP President
president@hudsonpreschoolparents.org
December 1st, 2022
Last month, I watched, learned, and supported my friend Megan Higgins, children’s author and advocate for people with disabilities, as she presented her proposal for the construction of an inclusive playground at the Hudson Park Board meeting. She was incredible as she spoke from the heart and explained why this project was important to her.
If you haven’t read it already, be sure to check out her book Super Special Magic Shoes, written after Megan’s own daughter, Isabella, began wearing braces on her feet.
Ironically, at the end of the summer, Megan and I learned that we were both working on playground proposals with similar goals. I am thrilled to announce, in honor of the 50th anniversary of Hudson Preschool Parents, we will be raising funds for the construction of a permanent safety village to be built adjacent to the existing playground at McDowell Early Learning School throughout 2023. This area will be used by preschool and kindergarten students for learning and play opportunities throughout the school day, Hudson Community Education & Recreation for Safety Town classes in the summer, and families that visit the playground outside of these times. Children will be able to learn traffic signals and the rules of the road as they move around the town.
Our hope is to include elements such as miniature buildings and shops recognizable from around Hudson, painting to mimic roadways and crosswalks, signage for streets and traffic safety, and working traffic signals such as a stoplight in the design of the project.
The overall design of the safety village will be inclusive, and we plan to work with the intervention team at McDowell to include accessible, interactive elements for all children to explore, play with, and practice motor skills.
Our initial goal is to fundraise $100,000. A designated fund at Hudson Community Foundation has been created to assist us in reaching our goal. This money will be used for grading and concrete, painting, electrical, construction of buildings and shops, seating, and landscaping. Any additional funds raised will be used for the ongoing maintenance of the safety village.
Your support of this project is appreciated and I can’t wait to one day see your children learning and playing in the safety village! Visit our website for updates on this project. Finally, I want to wish you and your family a very happy everything, with the hope that your holiday season is filled with continued health and happiness.
- Amy Andrews, HPP President
president@hudsonpreschoolparents.org
Last month, I watched, learned, and supported my friend Megan Higgins, children’s author and advocate for people with disabilities, as she presented her proposal for the construction of an inclusive playground at the Hudson Park Board meeting. She was incredible as she spoke from the heart and explained why this project was important to her.
If you haven’t read it already, be sure to check out her book Super Special Magic Shoes, written after Megan’s own daughter, Isabella, began wearing braces on her feet.
Ironically, at the end of the summer, Megan and I learned that we were both working on playground proposals with similar goals. I am thrilled to announce, in honor of the 50th anniversary of Hudson Preschool Parents, we will be raising funds for the construction of a permanent safety village to be built adjacent to the existing playground at McDowell Early Learning School throughout 2023. This area will be used by preschool and kindergarten students for learning and play opportunities throughout the school day, Hudson Community Education & Recreation for Safety Town classes in the summer, and families that visit the playground outside of these times. Children will be able to learn traffic signals and the rules of the road as they move around the town.
Our hope is to include elements such as miniature buildings and shops recognizable from around Hudson, painting to mimic roadways and crosswalks, signage for streets and traffic safety, and working traffic signals such as a stoplight in the design of the project.
The overall design of the safety village will be inclusive, and we plan to work with the intervention team at McDowell to include accessible, interactive elements for all children to explore, play with, and practice motor skills.
Our initial goal is to fundraise $100,000. A designated fund at Hudson Community Foundation has been created to assist us in reaching our goal. This money will be used for grading and concrete, painting, electrical, construction of buildings and shops, seating, and landscaping. Any additional funds raised will be used for the ongoing maintenance of the safety village.
Your support of this project is appreciated and I can’t wait to one day see your children learning and playing in the safety village! Visit our website for updates on this project. Finally, I want to wish you and your family a very happy everything, with the hope that your holiday season is filled with continued health and happiness.
- Amy Andrews, HPP President
president@hudsonpreschoolparents.org
November 1st, 2022
We brought home a puppy at the beginning of October (a sweet golden retriever my daughters named Benjamin) and while I am no where close to the exhaustion I felt after bringing home babies, I do feel as if I merely survived October. It was a busy month and rumor has it, it’s about to be even busier in the months ahead! I’m choosing to shift my focus and look at the good that happened this month though: a successful school fundraiser, gazing in wonder at the vastness of space on my late night walks (and watching the sun rise when puppy brother woke to meet it in the mornings), stellar reports from teachers at conferences, and children with more candy in their possession than they could possibly consume before the end of the year. That last one could really go either way but I do have a lot to be grateful for!
Here are a few links I’ve been reading and thinking about lately:
- Amy Andrews, HPP President
president@hudsonpreschoolparents.org
We brought home a puppy at the beginning of October (a sweet golden retriever my daughters named Benjamin) and while I am no where close to the exhaustion I felt after bringing home babies, I do feel as if I merely survived October. It was a busy month and rumor has it, it’s about to be even busier in the months ahead! I’m choosing to shift my focus and look at the good that happened this month though: a successful school fundraiser, gazing in wonder at the vastness of space on my late night walks (and watching the sun rise when puppy brother woke to meet it in the mornings), stellar reports from teachers at conferences, and children with more candy in their possession than they could possibly consume before the end of the year. That last one could really go either way but I do have a lot to be grateful for!
Here are a few links I’ve been reading and thinking about lately:
- I'm sure many of us already know this but methods for cultivating gratitude at conclusion are helpful reminders of ways to make it happen. Giving thanks can make you happier (Harvard Health)
- This one doesn’t need much explaining, right? The Strong Willed Child (Maisonette)
- Child-led play for the win. (Especially with those strong-willed children, am I right?) The 5-minute daily playtime ritual that can get your kids to listen better (NPR)
- Amy Andrews, HPP President
president@hudsonpreschoolparents.org
October 1st, 2022
Thank you so much for being a member of our group for the 2022-2023 school year. I hope that you take advantage of your family’s membership and all of the benefits Hudson Preschool Parents offers.
Here are a few links I’ve been reading and thinking about lately.
- Amy Andrews, HPP President
president@hudsonpreschoolparents.org
Thank you so much for being a member of our group for the 2022-2023 school year. I hope that you take advantage of your family’s membership and all of the benefits Hudson Preschool Parents offers.
Here are a few links I’ve been reading and thinking about lately.
- I'm not postpartum but with the crisp fall weather we've had lately, this soup sounded delicious to me. This Green Vegetable Soup is the Perfect Postpartum Recovery Recipe (MINI)
- Ever wondered about the IEP process for school-age children? This is a helpful and succinct explanation with additional resources. How to help your special needs child achieve school success (Akron Children's Hospital)
- Can you guess what we're getting ready to do?! How to - Safely! - Introduce a Dog to Your Children (Rover)
- Amy Andrews, HPP President
president@hudsonpreschoolparents.org
September 1st, 2022
I hope everyone’s back to school time has been as fun-filled and sweet as it looks in the first day of school pictures that have been shared online!
A couple sign ups are coming to a close this month. Read below for information about joining a playgroup (registration closes on September 17) and don’t forget to renew your HPP membership by September 30 to retain access to our events and activities.
Thank you to everyone that attended, and volunteered at, our Membership Picnic last month. We were fortunate to have twelve incredible vendors sharing their businesses with us and it was great to see how many places support families and young children in our community.
If you weren’t a member last school year, I was on a reading kick and shared a new parenting book each month but as I’m in a busier season of life currently, I’m going to be sharing more articles I’ve been reading and thinking about lately than books.
- Amy Andrews, HPP President
president@hudsonpreschoolparents.org
I hope everyone’s back to school time has been as fun-filled and sweet as it looks in the first day of school pictures that have been shared online!
A couple sign ups are coming to a close this month. Read below for information about joining a playgroup (registration closes on September 17) and don’t forget to renew your HPP membership by September 30 to retain access to our events and activities.
Thank you to everyone that attended, and volunteered at, our Membership Picnic last month. We were fortunate to have twelve incredible vendors sharing their businesses with us and it was great to see how many places support families and young children in our community.
If you weren’t a member last school year, I was on a reading kick and shared a new parenting book each month but as I’m in a busier season of life currently, I’m going to be sharing more articles I’ve been reading and thinking about lately than books.
- I'm a Dietitian and My Kid Has Eaten the Same Lunch for 3 Years - Here's Why That's OK (cubby)
- The Less-is-More Rules of "Simplicity Parenting" (MOTHER)
- 10 tips to help kids deal with school anxiety (Akron Children's Hospital)
- Amy Andrews, HPP President
president@hudsonpreschoolparents.org
August 1st, 2022
The sticky, sweet days of summer are slowly coming to a close and school will be starting in just a couple weeks which also means it’s time to begin another year of fun with Hudson Preschool Parents. My name is Amy Andrews, and I am beginning my second year as president of HPP. My husband and I have lived in Hudson for seven years with our daughters (ages 7 and 5). I’m a children’s librarian, turned stay at home mom, and joined the board five years ago as a field trip chair. Planning children’s activities had been such a big part of my work life and I was excited for the opportunity to have something to focus my creative energy on (not to mention have a reason to leave my house in the evenings to attend board meetings). As time went on, I was grateful to develop friendships with other moms in a similar season of life at our meetings and play group as well as connect with other families at the organization’s many activities and outings. My hope is that Hudson Preschool Parents provides you and your family with similar opportunities and memories as you are in these early years of life with young children. When I’m not volunteering, I love to curl up with a book to find inspiration for our upcoming home renovation and go out to eat in search of the best places to eat in northeast Ohio with my family.
Meet the rest of our board members. We’re fortunate to have a group of 25 parents dedicating their time to guiding the organization.
We hope to see you at a meet up or the annual HPP Membership Picnic on Sunday, August 21st as we kick off a new year!
- Amy Andrews, HPP President
president@hudsonpreschoolparents.org
The sticky, sweet days of summer are slowly coming to a close and school will be starting in just a couple weeks which also means it’s time to begin another year of fun with Hudson Preschool Parents. My name is Amy Andrews, and I am beginning my second year as president of HPP. My husband and I have lived in Hudson for seven years with our daughters (ages 7 and 5). I’m a children’s librarian, turned stay at home mom, and joined the board five years ago as a field trip chair. Planning children’s activities had been such a big part of my work life and I was excited for the opportunity to have something to focus my creative energy on (not to mention have a reason to leave my house in the evenings to attend board meetings). As time went on, I was grateful to develop friendships with other moms in a similar season of life at our meetings and play group as well as connect with other families at the organization’s many activities and outings. My hope is that Hudson Preschool Parents provides you and your family with similar opportunities and memories as you are in these early years of life with young children. When I’m not volunteering, I love to curl up with a book to find inspiration for our upcoming home renovation and go out to eat in search of the best places to eat in northeast Ohio with my family.
Meet the rest of our board members. We’re fortunate to have a group of 25 parents dedicating their time to guiding the organization.
We hope to see you at a meet up or the annual HPP Membership Picnic on Sunday, August 21st as we kick off a new year!
- Amy Andrews, HPP President
president@hudsonpreschoolparents.org
June 1st, 2022
Sweet summertime is nearly upon us! I wanted to begin by saying thank you again to our 2021-2022 board members. I am grateful for the time you spent volunteering for the organization. I'm also excited to see what the future holds as many familiar faces, and ten new ones, will be joining us on the 2022-2023 board. Thank you for signing on for what is sure to be a big year; 2023 marks the 50th anniversary of Hudson Preschool Parents!
While our typical summer months don't hold many officially planned events, I encourage you to join our private Facebook group and schedule a meet up with other member families at the many local parks, playgrounds, and splash pads in the area. We're also fortunate to live in or near a town that hosts many family friendly events throughout the summer. Be sure to visit the City of Hudson Special Events Calendar to learn about summer happenings. (You can also sign up to receive updates via the City's newsletter here.) Our family loves to visit the Hudson Farmer's Market on Saturday mornings, beginning Saturday, June 4. Another great place to check for family favorite activities are local libraries. We're surrounded by some great ones where we live. (If you didn't know, many local libraries have reciprocal benefits and you should be able to check out materials at other libraries in the area or easily open a library card at that location if you are an Ohio resident with required ID.) I also want to be sure to mention Fun at First & Main, a monthly summer event series for children and families hosted by Northeast Ohio Parent. Each month features a different theme with related activities, games, and more. For more information, visit First & Main. I hope to see you and your children around town in the weeks ahead, soaking up all that summer has to offer!
- Amy Andrews, HPP President
president@hudsonpreschoolparents.org
Sweet summertime is nearly upon us! I wanted to begin by saying thank you again to our 2021-2022 board members. I am grateful for the time you spent volunteering for the organization. I'm also excited to see what the future holds as many familiar faces, and ten new ones, will be joining us on the 2022-2023 board. Thank you for signing on for what is sure to be a big year; 2023 marks the 50th anniversary of Hudson Preschool Parents!
While our typical summer months don't hold many officially planned events, I encourage you to join our private Facebook group and schedule a meet up with other member families at the many local parks, playgrounds, and splash pads in the area. We're also fortunate to live in or near a town that hosts many family friendly events throughout the summer. Be sure to visit the City of Hudson Special Events Calendar to learn about summer happenings. (You can also sign up to receive updates via the City's newsletter here.) Our family loves to visit the Hudson Farmer's Market on Saturday mornings, beginning Saturday, June 4. Another great place to check for family favorite activities are local libraries. We're surrounded by some great ones where we live. (If you didn't know, many local libraries have reciprocal benefits and you should be able to check out materials at other libraries in the area or easily open a library card at that location if you are an Ohio resident with required ID.) I also want to be sure to mention Fun at First & Main, a monthly summer event series for children and families hosted by Northeast Ohio Parent. Each month features a different theme with related activities, games, and more. For more information, visit First & Main. I hope to see you and your children around town in the weeks ahead, soaking up all that summer has to offer!
- Amy Andrews, HPP President
president@hudsonpreschoolparents.org
May 1st, 2022
Another end of the school year has somehow managed to sneak up on me. I find it hard to believe that eight months have passed since school started, yet here we are. This month, I'm sharing children's books that could be given as a future gift to your child at the end of elementary school or even high school graduation. Here's what you do: a few weeks before the end of the school year, send in the book with a note asking your child's teacher to sign, then repeat at the end of each year, until you decide to give the book to your child. Speaking of teachers, some of the real life superheroes living among us, don't forget to thank your child's teacher(s) this week during Staff Appreciation Week. They deserve lots of love! If you happen to be a teacher reading this, thank you for using your big heart to shape growing minds into our future society.
- Amy Andrews, HPP President
president@hudsonpreschoolparents.org
Another end of the school year has somehow managed to sneak up on me. I find it hard to believe that eight months have passed since school started, yet here we are. This month, I'm sharing children's books that could be given as a future gift to your child at the end of elementary school or even high school graduation. Here's what you do: a few weeks before the end of the school year, send in the book with a note asking your child's teacher to sign, then repeat at the end of each year, until you decide to give the book to your child. Speaking of teachers, some of the real life superheroes living among us, don't forget to thank your child's teacher(s) this week during Staff Appreciation Week. They deserve lots of love! If you happen to be a teacher reading this, thank you for using your big heart to shape growing minds into our future society.
- Curious You On Your Way! - illustrated by H.A. Rey
- Dare to Dream Big by Lorna Gutierrez
- I Wish You More by Amy Krouse Rosenthal
- Maybe: A Story About the Endless Potential in All of Us by Kobi Yamada (I've had this one signed by teachers for my daughters and I also have Trust Your Crazy Ideas by Kobi Yamada saved for my girls when they get older!)
- Where the Sidewalk Ends by Shel Silverstein
- Amy Andrews, HPP President
president@hudsonpreschoolparents.org
April 1st, 2022
Week of the Young Child will be celebrated by Hudson Preschool Parents from Monday, April 18-Friday, April 22. We will be hosting outings at a number of locations around town including fun on the farm at Hidden Pastures, introductory classes at local music, dance, and fitness studios, and making and tasting treats at Metropolis Popcorn and Nestlé Toll House Café as well as a members-only library story time, Teddy Bear Mobile party, and show featuring Jungle Terry and his traveling zoo!
I would like to say thank you to our Events team of Stefanie Cinadr, Meghan Kestner, and Emily Pleat for their collaboration to plan all of the wonderful Week of the Young Child events for our member families and Katie Gallagher and Justin Hayes, Children's Fair co-chairs, for the time and effort you put in to coordinating the 35th Children's Fair for local families (especially having never even attended this event and working out all the details after a 2-year hiatus)! Last but certainly not least, I want to thank Erin Graessle, our fearless "webmaster," that makes everything happen behind the virtual scenes. We wouldn't be able to enjoy any of these events without you.We wouldn't be able to enjoy any of these events without you. The willingness of board members to take time out of already full schedules to make this organization run fills me with gratitude. Your dedication is admirable and appreciated.
- Amy Andrews, HPP President
president@hudsonpreschoolparents.org
Week of the Young Child will be celebrated by Hudson Preschool Parents from Monday, April 18-Friday, April 22. We will be hosting outings at a number of locations around town including fun on the farm at Hidden Pastures, introductory classes at local music, dance, and fitness studios, and making and tasting treats at Metropolis Popcorn and Nestlé Toll House Café as well as a members-only library story time, Teddy Bear Mobile party, and show featuring Jungle Terry and his traveling zoo!
I would like to say thank you to our Events team of Stefanie Cinadr, Meghan Kestner, and Emily Pleat for their collaboration to plan all of the wonderful Week of the Young Child events for our member families and Katie Gallagher and Justin Hayes, Children's Fair co-chairs, for the time and effort you put in to coordinating the 35th Children's Fair for local families (especially having never even attended this event and working out all the details after a 2-year hiatus)! Last but certainly not least, I want to thank Erin Graessle, our fearless "webmaster," that makes everything happen behind the virtual scenes. We wouldn't be able to enjoy any of these events without you.We wouldn't be able to enjoy any of these events without you. The willingness of board members to take time out of already full schedules to make this organization run fills me with gratitude. Your dedication is admirable and appreciated.
- Amy Andrews, HPP President
president@hudsonpreschoolparents.org
Save the date for our 35th Annual Hudson Preschool Parents Children’s Fair!
Saturday, April 23, 2022
10:00 am – 1:00 pm
East Woods Elementary School
120 North Hayden Parkway, Hudson
The Children's Fair is next month! This event is free and open to all families. With a DJ, food, entertainment, raffle items, familiar characters and local vendors with informational booths, it’s sure to be a fun-filled outing for the entire family! Our website will have a listing of the entertainment schedule, participating vendors, and raffle donors closer to the event. If you have any questions, please contact co-chairs Katie and Justin at hudsonohchildrensfair@gmail.com.
We hope to see you there!
Saturday, April 23, 2022
10:00 am – 1:00 pm
East Woods Elementary School
120 North Hayden Parkway, Hudson
The Children's Fair is next month! This event is free and open to all families. With a DJ, food, entertainment, raffle items, familiar characters and local vendors with informational booths, it’s sure to be a fun-filled outing for the entire family! Our website will have a listing of the entertainment schedule, participating vendors, and raffle donors closer to the event. If you have any questions, please contact co-chairs Katie and Justin at hudsonohchildrensfair@gmail.com.
We hope to see you there!
March 1st, 2022
Is it March? Already? I don't feel there is much I can say to appropriately sum up life lately but my hope is that you and your families are doing well and finding joy in the little things, such as longer days, warmer weather, and the sweet smell of spring on the way. I want to believe change is coming in many ways and find peace in the changing season.
Our Events team has planned two fun outings this month at Treehouse Toys & Play, an indoor playground in Aurora, since it is still the end of winter in Ohio (and we all know what a muddy mess the playgrounds are)! This month's read might help you think differently about getting outside with your kiddos though.
Before becoming a parent, I studied the Reggio Emilia approach to early childhood education, then had the good fortune of working as a teacher at a Reggio Emilia-inspired early learning center and thought it just made sense. As many teachers can tell you, you learn a lot of educational theory throughout your studies, and while much of it has had its time and place throughout history, it doesn't necessarily fit into the classroom dynamic of today. The Reggio Emilia approach felt different to me though.
A little backstory; after WWII, parents of young children in the Reggio Emilia region of Italy were inspired by the teaching philosophy of Loris Malaguzzi, a man that believed children should be able to learn by exploring their environment through a variety of experiences and are capable of expressing themselves in many different ways - 100 languages to be exact. After the devastation they had faced during the war, parents wanted to reintroduce the beauty of the world to their children and felt that his approach would allow them to do this.
Since there were no Reggio-inspired preschool programs located nearby when I was looking for a preschool for my oldest, I decided to integrate this philosophy into our everyday life. One of the ways I did this was to let my daughters explore nature and let their innate curiosity guide us.
Although this book was published in 2015, How to Raise a Wild Child: The Art and Science of Falling in Love with Nature is filled with reasons still applicable today, describing why outdoor play is necessary for children of all ages. We've all heard about the benefits of spending time outdoors and Scott D. Sampson (aka Dr. Scott if have a Dinosaur Train fan) shares plenty of secrets for raising a "wild child" and ways to foster a relationship between children and the natural world.
To purchase How to Raise a Wild Child from The Learned Owl Book Shop, call 330-653-2252 or visit The Learned Owl's website. The Learned Owl will donate 20% of sale proceeds to the Hudson Community Foundation's Youth, Education & Recreation Fund in Hudson Preschool Parents’ name.
- Amy Andrews, HPP President
president@hudsonpreschoolparents.org
Is it March? Already? I don't feel there is much I can say to appropriately sum up life lately but my hope is that you and your families are doing well and finding joy in the little things, such as longer days, warmer weather, and the sweet smell of spring on the way. I want to believe change is coming in many ways and find peace in the changing season.
Our Events team has planned two fun outings this month at Treehouse Toys & Play, an indoor playground in Aurora, since it is still the end of winter in Ohio (and we all know what a muddy mess the playgrounds are)! This month's read might help you think differently about getting outside with your kiddos though.
Before becoming a parent, I studied the Reggio Emilia approach to early childhood education, then had the good fortune of working as a teacher at a Reggio Emilia-inspired early learning center and thought it just made sense. As many teachers can tell you, you learn a lot of educational theory throughout your studies, and while much of it has had its time and place throughout history, it doesn't necessarily fit into the classroom dynamic of today. The Reggio Emilia approach felt different to me though.
A little backstory; after WWII, parents of young children in the Reggio Emilia region of Italy were inspired by the teaching philosophy of Loris Malaguzzi, a man that believed children should be able to learn by exploring their environment through a variety of experiences and are capable of expressing themselves in many different ways - 100 languages to be exact. After the devastation they had faced during the war, parents wanted to reintroduce the beauty of the world to their children and felt that his approach would allow them to do this.
Since there were no Reggio-inspired preschool programs located nearby when I was looking for a preschool for my oldest, I decided to integrate this philosophy into our everyday life. One of the ways I did this was to let my daughters explore nature and let their innate curiosity guide us.
Although this book was published in 2015, How to Raise a Wild Child: The Art and Science of Falling in Love with Nature is filled with reasons still applicable today, describing why outdoor play is necessary for children of all ages. We've all heard about the benefits of spending time outdoors and Scott D. Sampson (aka Dr. Scott if have a Dinosaur Train fan) shares plenty of secrets for raising a "wild child" and ways to foster a relationship between children and the natural world.
To purchase How to Raise a Wild Child from The Learned Owl Book Shop, call 330-653-2252 or visit The Learned Owl's website. The Learned Owl will donate 20% of sale proceeds to the Hudson Community Foundation's Youth, Education & Recreation Fund in Hudson Preschool Parents’ name.
- Amy Andrews, HPP President
president@hudsonpreschoolparents.org
Week of the Young Child (WOYC) will be celebrated by Hudson Preschool Parents next month from Monday, April 18th-Friday, April 22nd. We will be hosting outings at a number of locations around town including fun on the farm at Hidden Pastures, introductory classes at local music, dance, and fitness studios, and making and tasting treats at Metropolis Popcorn and Nestlé Toll House Café as well as a members-only library story time, Teddy Bear Mobile party, and show featuring Jungle Terry and his traveling zoo! Registration begins Friday, April 1st. Please note: Week of the Young Child events are for members of Hudson Preschool Parents. It's not too late to join! Click here to become a member.
February 15th, 2022
Happy February! I love that this month is full of so many different celebrations from Black History Month to Lunar New Year to the Super Bowl to Valentine's Day to Random Acts of Kindness Week. It really covers a lot of ground and I'll take it as winter drags on!
A number of thank you's are in order to our members that participated in the following events:
Thank you also to the women that organized these events: Ali Augsburger, Rachael DeStefanis, Jaimie Kokrak, and Stephanie Kokrak. It thrills me to see what a small community organization makes possible when it comes to helping others.
Stay in the loop! Be sure to follow our social media accounts for information about upcoming events and HPP happenings. Join our private group on Facebook and follow us on Instagram @hudsonpreschoolparents. You can also find out more details here on our website.
Our family loves to eat and, much to my husband's displeasure, I'm constantly on the look out for something new to prepare. I stumbled across Feeding a Family one night as I was endlessly searching for "easy dinners." I'll be honest, I'm still searching for whatever meal it is that I think fits that term but Sarah Waldman shares a number of delicious and simple whole food recipes in Feeding a Family. I try to make a point of cooking with seasonal ingredients and love that she divides the recipes in this way. She also shares a number of benefits and tips that, "...are organized into bulleted, easy-to-read lists so your precious time is not wasted searching for helpful bits amid lengthy paragraphs," something that seems to be lost on a number of food bloggers! If you're in need of further dinner inspiration, the Hudson Library has a lengthy row of cook books in both their adult non-fiction section (upstairs) and children's non-fiction section (to the left of the desk in the children's room). You're looking for the 641's in both departments.
Reminder: When you purchase from The Learned Owl Book Shop, 20% of sale proceeds are donated to the Hudson Community Foundation's Youth, Education & Recreation Fund in Hudson Preschool Parents’ name. To purchase Feeding a Family, call 330-653-2252 or visit The Learned Owl's website.
- Amy Andrews, HPP President
president@hudsonpreschoolparents.org
Happy February! I love that this month is full of so many different celebrations from Black History Month to Lunar New Year to the Super Bowl to Valentine's Day to Random Acts of Kindness Week. It really covers a lot of ground and I'll take it as winter drags on!
A number of thank you's are in order to our members that participated in the following events:
- Eat Well and Do Good fundraiser at Flip Side and 3 Palms in November raised $4,722 for the Integrated Preschool Program
- New Year, New You! event last month raised $274 for United Way of Summit County
- Creating Valentines to be distributed to a local nursing home
Thank you also to the women that organized these events: Ali Augsburger, Rachael DeStefanis, Jaimie Kokrak, and Stephanie Kokrak. It thrills me to see what a small community organization makes possible when it comes to helping others.
Stay in the loop! Be sure to follow our social media accounts for information about upcoming events and HPP happenings. Join our private group on Facebook and follow us on Instagram @hudsonpreschoolparents. You can also find out more details here on our website.
Our family loves to eat and, much to my husband's displeasure, I'm constantly on the look out for something new to prepare. I stumbled across Feeding a Family one night as I was endlessly searching for "easy dinners." I'll be honest, I'm still searching for whatever meal it is that I think fits that term but Sarah Waldman shares a number of delicious and simple whole food recipes in Feeding a Family. I try to make a point of cooking with seasonal ingredients and love that she divides the recipes in this way. She also shares a number of benefits and tips that, "...are organized into bulleted, easy-to-read lists so your precious time is not wasted searching for helpful bits amid lengthy paragraphs," something that seems to be lost on a number of food bloggers! If you're in need of further dinner inspiration, the Hudson Library has a lengthy row of cook books in both their adult non-fiction section (upstairs) and children's non-fiction section (to the left of the desk in the children's room). You're looking for the 641's in both departments.
Reminder: When you purchase from The Learned Owl Book Shop, 20% of sale proceeds are donated to the Hudson Community Foundation's Youth, Education & Recreation Fund in Hudson Preschool Parents’ name. To purchase Feeding a Family, call 330-653-2252 or visit The Learned Owl's website.
- Amy Andrews, HPP President
president@hudsonpreschoolparents.org
January 1st, 2022
Happy New Year, all! I hope your holidays were joy filled and just what your family needed. Thank you to all of the families that donated to our community service project in support of Project Rise last month. 235 totes were collected and given to students experiencing homelessness in Akron Public Schools.
We have a few events happening later this month; one for the kids and one for the moms! Also, save the date - later this year, we're hoping to once again host the Children's Fair on Saturday, April 23rd.
Maybe it was all of the holiday decor that was adorning my house last month, or thoughts of the new toys that would soon be taking over, but I was daydreaming of a home reset in January and took out an old favorite to flip through for inspiration. In Elements of Family Style: Elegant Spaces for Everyday Life, Gates shares decorating advice for those living with children and demonstrates beautiful ways to elevate your space while being mindful of all residents.
When you purchase from The Learned Owl Book Shop, 20% of sale proceeds are donated to the Hudson Community Foundation's Youth, Education & Recreation Fund in Hudson Preschool Parents’ name. To purchase Elements of Family Style: Elegant Spaces for Everyday Life, call 330-653-2252 or visit The Learned Owl's website.
- Amy Andrews, HPP President
president@hudsonpreschoolparents.org
Happy New Year, all! I hope your holidays were joy filled and just what your family needed. Thank you to all of the families that donated to our community service project in support of Project Rise last month. 235 totes were collected and given to students experiencing homelessness in Akron Public Schools.
We have a few events happening later this month; one for the kids and one for the moms! Also, save the date - later this year, we're hoping to once again host the Children's Fair on Saturday, April 23rd.
Maybe it was all of the holiday decor that was adorning my house last month, or thoughts of the new toys that would soon be taking over, but I was daydreaming of a home reset in January and took out an old favorite to flip through for inspiration. In Elements of Family Style: Elegant Spaces for Everyday Life, Gates shares decorating advice for those living with children and demonstrates beautiful ways to elevate your space while being mindful of all residents.
When you purchase from The Learned Owl Book Shop, 20% of sale proceeds are donated to the Hudson Community Foundation's Youth, Education & Recreation Fund in Hudson Preschool Parents’ name. To purchase Elements of Family Style: Elegant Spaces for Everyday Life, call 330-653-2252 or visit The Learned Owl's website.
- Amy Andrews, HPP President
president@hudsonpreschoolparents.org
December 1st, 2021
I'd like to begin by saying thank you to all of our members that supported our fundraiser at Flip Side and 3 Palms last month. We'll be sharing the total amount raised soon but I'm hopeful it was as success based on the number of shares I saw on social media and feedback received! If you'd like to support another great cause this month, we're donating to Project Rise to help children in Akron experiencing homelessness. Filling up tote bags for kids in need with my daughters gives our family tremendous perspective this time of year and has become one of our favorite holiday traditions.
Since December can be an overwhelming month for littles, we have just a few events scheduled for families. Visit the library for story time, create a masterpiece with your kiddo in art class to gift or keep, or visit with Santa at The Learned Owl Book Shop.
Holidays already have you feeling worn out? Pick up a copy of Horizontal Parenting: How to Entertain Your Kid While Lying Down to help get you through the season. This book shares more than 50 ways to parent with imagination, all while saving you energy. I felt a little like Bandit and Chilli Heeler, imaginative parents extraordinaire from the cartoon Bluey, while my daughters turned me into a life-size version of the Operation game board and used kitchen tongs to pick up items off of me while I laid back and relaxed. (See Doogie Howser Junior, page 20, for this great idea!)
Horizontal Parenting would also make an excellent gift for tired parents you may know. Don't forget to shop local this holiday season and purchase from The Learned Owl Book Shop. When you do so, 20% of sale proceeds will be donated to the Hudson Community Foundation's Youth, Education & Recreation Fund in Hudson Preschool Parents’ name. To purchase Horizontal Parenting: How to Entertain Your Kid While Lying Down, call 330-653-2252 or visit The Learned Owl's website.
Wishing you and your family a very happy everything, with the hope that your holiday season is full of continued health and happiness.
- Amy Andrews, HPP President
president@hudsonpreschoolparents.org
I'd like to begin by saying thank you to all of our members that supported our fundraiser at Flip Side and 3 Palms last month. We'll be sharing the total amount raised soon but I'm hopeful it was as success based on the number of shares I saw on social media and feedback received! If you'd like to support another great cause this month, we're donating to Project Rise to help children in Akron experiencing homelessness. Filling up tote bags for kids in need with my daughters gives our family tremendous perspective this time of year and has become one of our favorite holiday traditions.
Since December can be an overwhelming month for littles, we have just a few events scheduled for families. Visit the library for story time, create a masterpiece with your kiddo in art class to gift or keep, or visit with Santa at The Learned Owl Book Shop.
Holidays already have you feeling worn out? Pick up a copy of Horizontal Parenting: How to Entertain Your Kid While Lying Down to help get you through the season. This book shares more than 50 ways to parent with imagination, all while saving you energy. I felt a little like Bandit and Chilli Heeler, imaginative parents extraordinaire from the cartoon Bluey, while my daughters turned me into a life-size version of the Operation game board and used kitchen tongs to pick up items off of me while I laid back and relaxed. (See Doogie Howser Junior, page 20, for this great idea!)
Horizontal Parenting would also make an excellent gift for tired parents you may know. Don't forget to shop local this holiday season and purchase from The Learned Owl Book Shop. When you do so, 20% of sale proceeds will be donated to the Hudson Community Foundation's Youth, Education & Recreation Fund in Hudson Preschool Parents’ name. To purchase Horizontal Parenting: How to Entertain Your Kid While Lying Down, call 330-653-2252 or visit The Learned Owl's website.
Wishing you and your family a very happy everything, with the hope that your holiday season is full of continued health and happiness.
- Amy Andrews, HPP President
president@hudsonpreschoolparents.org
November 1st, 2021
What a lovely day for November to greet us with! This crisp weather has me looking forward to the changing season and holidays ahead. Our event offerings have slowed down to give us all a chance to enjoy time with our families (and adjust to the end of Daylight Savings Time). I’m wishing for you a month filled with gratitude and togetherness.
“How timely,” I mused, when I read the title, Baby, Unplugged: One Mother’s Search for Balance, Reason, and Sanity in the Digital Age. Ironically, author Sophie Brickman finished researching and writing about the effect of technology on parenting just days before the COVID-19 pandemic stopped life as we knew it but the conclusions she came to still proved to be true. If you’ve ever found yourself wondering about the influence of technology on children today, I highly recommend this read.
The Learned Owl Book Shop will be selling the books you see featured here and donating 20% of proceeds to the Hudson Community Foundation Youth, Education & Recreation Fund in Hudson Preschool Parents’ name. To purchase Baby, Unplugged call 330-653-2252 or visit The Learned Owl's website.
Want to read less? Here's a few links to check out:
- Amy Andrews, HPP President
president@hudsonpreschoolparents.org
What a lovely day for November to greet us with! This crisp weather has me looking forward to the changing season and holidays ahead. Our event offerings have slowed down to give us all a chance to enjoy time with our families (and adjust to the end of Daylight Savings Time). I’m wishing for you a month filled with gratitude and togetherness.
“How timely,” I mused, when I read the title, Baby, Unplugged: One Mother’s Search for Balance, Reason, and Sanity in the Digital Age. Ironically, author Sophie Brickman finished researching and writing about the effect of technology on parenting just days before the COVID-19 pandemic stopped life as we knew it but the conclusions she came to still proved to be true. If you’ve ever found yourself wondering about the influence of technology on children today, I highly recommend this read.
The Learned Owl Book Shop will be selling the books you see featured here and donating 20% of proceeds to the Hudson Community Foundation Youth, Education & Recreation Fund in Hudson Preschool Parents’ name. To purchase Baby, Unplugged call 330-653-2252 or visit The Learned Owl's website.
Want to read less? Here's a few links to check out:
- Ask Dr. Bronwyn: Top 5 Tips for Instilling Gratitude in Your Children (Maisonette)
- Daylight Savings Ends Next Sunday - Here's How to Get Through It Without Losing Sleep (The Everymom)
- Talking to Kids About Vaccines (National Geographic)
- Amy Andrews, HPP President
president@hudsonpreschoolparents.org
October 1st, 2021
I hope that your fall is off to a wonderful start and your family has been enjoying all of the fantastic offerings that abound in Ohio this time of year; football, pumpkins, apple orchards (and apple pie), oh my! The wax and wane of life's phases never seemed as obvious to me as it does now since becoming a parent.
This month’s book made me feel fortunate to live in a time when many recognize the injustice of erasing native people and culture from the history books. In Hunt, Gather, Parent: What Ancient Cultures Can Teach Us About the Lost Art of Raising Happy, Helpful Little Humans, Michaeleen Doucleff, PhD, has made it possible to gain insight into the Native Hadzabe, Inuit, and Maya cultures, and their contribution to the world of raising a family. With her own toddler in tow, Dr. Doucleff visited Native families around the world, observed mothers and their children throughout typical everyday settings, and then applied their parenting methods and techniques to raising her own daughter. Through a shift in her perspective thanks to these women, Dr. Doucleff learned to parent her daughter in a more amicable, peaceful, and calm way, modeling behaviors that her daughter began to express as well. I found this book enlightening and informative, grateful for what it taught me both about Native cultures and Western society.
Again, I wanted to share that The Learned Owl Book Shop will be selling the books you see featured in our newsletter and donating 20% of sale proceeds to the Hudson Community Foundation Youth, Education & Recreation Fund in Hudson Preschool Parents’ name. To purchase Hunt, Gather, Parent, call 330-653-2252 visit The Learned Owl's website.
Finally, here’s a quick round up of links to articles relating to one of my favorite weeks as a librarian (happening now!) that I’ve been reading and thinking about lately:
- Amy Andrews, HPP President
president@hudsonpreschoolparents.org
I hope that your fall is off to a wonderful start and your family has been enjoying all of the fantastic offerings that abound in Ohio this time of year; football, pumpkins, apple orchards (and apple pie), oh my! The wax and wane of life's phases never seemed as obvious to me as it does now since becoming a parent.
This month’s book made me feel fortunate to live in a time when many recognize the injustice of erasing native people and culture from the history books. In Hunt, Gather, Parent: What Ancient Cultures Can Teach Us About the Lost Art of Raising Happy, Helpful Little Humans, Michaeleen Doucleff, PhD, has made it possible to gain insight into the Native Hadzabe, Inuit, and Maya cultures, and their contribution to the world of raising a family. With her own toddler in tow, Dr. Doucleff visited Native families around the world, observed mothers and their children throughout typical everyday settings, and then applied their parenting methods and techniques to raising her own daughter. Through a shift in her perspective thanks to these women, Dr. Doucleff learned to parent her daughter in a more amicable, peaceful, and calm way, modeling behaviors that her daughter began to express as well. I found this book enlightening and informative, grateful for what it taught me both about Native cultures and Western society.
Again, I wanted to share that The Learned Owl Book Shop will be selling the books you see featured in our newsletter and donating 20% of sale proceeds to the Hudson Community Foundation Youth, Education & Recreation Fund in Hudson Preschool Parents’ name. To purchase Hunt, Gather, Parent, call 330-653-2252 visit The Learned Owl's website.
Finally, here’s a quick round up of links to articles relating to one of my favorite weeks as a librarian (happening now!) that I’ve been reading and thinking about lately:
- During Banned Books Week, Readers Explore What it Means to Challenge Texts (NPR)
- How Much Should We Edit Our Kids’ Books? (Maisonette)
- I Read Banned Books and So Do My Kids (Brightly)
- Why Your Kids Should Read Banned Books (Common Sense Media)
- Amy Andrews, HPP President
president@hudsonpreschoolparents.org
September 1st, 2021
Happy back to school and all of the activities that come with it! We shared nearly 20 events and outings in our monthly newsletter.
When I was writing this update, the worry of starting a new routine was consuming my thoughts. Since becoming a parent, I have lived with worry. There’s no one particular thing I am worried about, rather, it’s always been something, seeming to lurk everywhere. Bottle feeding versus breastfeeding and then, baby-lead versus spoon-fed weaning, which brand of car seat to purchase and how long to leave it rear-facing, choice of preschool and which educational theory they practice, plenty of safety issues, screen time, vaccinations (gasp!), when to start kindergarten and whether to go full day or half day, and so on. And those are just the worries within my control. Let’s not forget about the current events news reel that is constantly updating with atrocities being faced by parents around the world. It can be all consuming.
I’m sure you can imagine, and may full well understand, the COVID-19 pandemic did absolutely nothing to help matters. This is what I find to be true time and time again though; my worrying can not control the universe (thank goodness) and oftentimes, all that worrying amounts to nothing but misery. I rarely, if ever, worry and plan for a scenario exactly as it eventually happens. “Improvise, adapt and overcome” is a mantra I’ve long been familiar with but couldn’t quite grasp in my new role as a mother.
As a former librarian, I sat back with an old friend and began reading my way to mindfulness and reason. In the months ahead, I plan to share with you the books I have found to be helpful. My aim this month was to ease your worries, as I’ve heard I’m not alone in this feeling. (I’ve also heard this job doesn’t get any easier and that “bigger kids have bigger problems,” but there’s no point worrying about that now, is there?)
The first book I’d like to share is for those of you with infants that find yourself craving scientific data and solid facts to support your views. Not only does The Bottom Line for Baby by Tina Payne Bryson, Ph.D., share the evidence and findings of many studies done in recent years related to babies ages 12 months or younger, but it also explains the purpose of the studies as well as why the facts aren’t always what they seem. This book was a great reminder that while scientific data and evidence is incredible, and continues to grow every year, it’s not without judgements, flaws, and issues.
I am pleased to announce that The Learned Owl Book Shop will be selling the books you see featured in our monthly newsletter and donating 20% of proceeds from their sales to the Hudson Community Foundation's Youth, Education & Recreation Fund in Hudson Preschool Parents’ name. To purchase The Bottom Line for Baby, call 330-653-2252 or visit The Learned Owl's website.
If you’re out of the baby stage, or don't have the time to read this entire newsletter, let alone a book, here’s another quick round up of links to articles I’ve been reading and thinking about lately:
- Amy Andrews, HPP President
president@hudsonpreschoolparents.org
Happy back to school and all of the activities that come with it! We shared nearly 20 events and outings in our monthly newsletter.
When I was writing this update, the worry of starting a new routine was consuming my thoughts. Since becoming a parent, I have lived with worry. There’s no one particular thing I am worried about, rather, it’s always been something, seeming to lurk everywhere. Bottle feeding versus breastfeeding and then, baby-lead versus spoon-fed weaning, which brand of car seat to purchase and how long to leave it rear-facing, choice of preschool and which educational theory they practice, plenty of safety issues, screen time, vaccinations (gasp!), when to start kindergarten and whether to go full day or half day, and so on. And those are just the worries within my control. Let’s not forget about the current events news reel that is constantly updating with atrocities being faced by parents around the world. It can be all consuming.
I’m sure you can imagine, and may full well understand, the COVID-19 pandemic did absolutely nothing to help matters. This is what I find to be true time and time again though; my worrying can not control the universe (thank goodness) and oftentimes, all that worrying amounts to nothing but misery. I rarely, if ever, worry and plan for a scenario exactly as it eventually happens. “Improvise, adapt and overcome” is a mantra I’ve long been familiar with but couldn’t quite grasp in my new role as a mother.
As a former librarian, I sat back with an old friend and began reading my way to mindfulness and reason. In the months ahead, I plan to share with you the books I have found to be helpful. My aim this month was to ease your worries, as I’ve heard I’m not alone in this feeling. (I’ve also heard this job doesn’t get any easier and that “bigger kids have bigger problems,” but there’s no point worrying about that now, is there?)
The first book I’d like to share is for those of you with infants that find yourself craving scientific data and solid facts to support your views. Not only does The Bottom Line for Baby by Tina Payne Bryson, Ph.D., share the evidence and findings of many studies done in recent years related to babies ages 12 months or younger, but it also explains the purpose of the studies as well as why the facts aren’t always what they seem. This book was a great reminder that while scientific data and evidence is incredible, and continues to grow every year, it’s not without judgements, flaws, and issues.
I am pleased to announce that The Learned Owl Book Shop will be selling the books you see featured in our monthly newsletter and donating 20% of proceeds from their sales to the Hudson Community Foundation's Youth, Education & Recreation Fund in Hudson Preschool Parents’ name. To purchase The Bottom Line for Baby, call 330-653-2252 or visit The Learned Owl's website.
If you’re out of the baby stage, or don't have the time to read this entire newsletter, let alone a book, here’s another quick round up of links to articles I’ve been reading and thinking about lately:
- 8 tips for a great start to the school year (Akron Children’s Hospital)
- Helping kids deal with back to school anxiety (National Geographic)
- Should We Always Put Our Children's Needs Before Our Own? (The Tot)
- Why kids are still waiting for their COVID-19 vaccines (National Geographic)
- Amy Andrews, HPP President
president@hudsonpreschoolparents.org
August 1st, 2021
Hello all,
I write with hope in my heart that our families will be able to come together and truly enjoy this school year and all of the beautiful chaos that it entails - open houses, after school activities, holiday parades and parties, in-person parent-teacher conferences and more.
I’m thrilled to report that we have 24 parents who have graciously volunteered their time to be on our Board and will be working together to plan a variety of events for you, our members, and the local community in the year ahead. You will get to know them more in the coming weeks as they share introductions here. The Membership Picnic, a family-friendly community service opportunity, and park meet up plus ice cream truck are happening this month!
This is my fourth year on the HPP Board and first year as President. I’m a former children’s librarian, turned mama of two, that has the privilege and responsibility of staying home full-time to raise my children. I have a deep love of learning and believe storytelling is the basis of our education and one of the best things that makes us uniquely human. I enjoy nothing more than sitting down with, and then sharing, a great book, except maybe hosting a cookout for close friends. I’ve included a round-up of links to articles I’ve been reading and thinking about lately here:
I look forward to hopefully seeing and meeting you out around town at our events this year and thank you for being a member of our group.
- Amy Andrews, HPP President
president@hudsonpreschoolparents.org
Hello all,
I write with hope in my heart that our families will be able to come together and truly enjoy this school year and all of the beautiful chaos that it entails - open houses, after school activities, holiday parades and parties, in-person parent-teacher conferences and more.
I’m thrilled to report that we have 24 parents who have graciously volunteered their time to be on our Board and will be working together to plan a variety of events for you, our members, and the local community in the year ahead. You will get to know them more in the coming weeks as they share introductions here. The Membership Picnic, a family-friendly community service opportunity, and park meet up plus ice cream truck are happening this month!
This is my fourth year on the HPP Board and first year as President. I’m a former children’s librarian, turned mama of two, that has the privilege and responsibility of staying home full-time to raise my children. I have a deep love of learning and believe storytelling is the basis of our education and one of the best things that makes us uniquely human. I enjoy nothing more than sitting down with, and then sharing, a great book, except maybe hosting a cookout for close friends. I’ve included a round-up of links to articles I’ve been reading and thinking about lately here:
- How to Help Kids Build Creativity, Both On & Offline (MOTHER)
- I'm a Pandemic Dad Who's Been Covering COVID-19. I Don't Know How to Think About the Risk Anymore (TIME)
- The Professional Women Who Are Leaning Out (The Atlantic)
- Want to Raise Successful Kids? Science Says These 5 Habits Matter Most (Inc.)
I look forward to hopefully seeing and meeting you out around town at our events this year and thank you for being a member of our group.
- Amy Andrews, HPP President
president@hudsonpreschoolparents.org
April 1st, 2021
Happy spring, everyone! As I write this note, nature is playing a cruel April Fool's Day joke on us by welcoming the month with some, (cough cough), SNOW. Typical Ohio! Despite the frigid weather, I'm feeling hopeful about a new season and know sunny, warm days will be upon us soon.
As you all are aware, we've had to cancel our annual Children's Fair once again due to current pandemic restrictions. However, I'm thrilled to share details in this newsletter about our Week of the Young Child events, beginning on Monday, April 12! I'm very grateful to the team of women who spent time putting together activities and events for you and your families to enjoy. Be sure to take note of the registration dates for these events below!
I also would like to encourage all of you to vote yes on Issue 1 on May 4 to renew the levy for the Hudson Library & Historical Society. Our library is a fantastic partner with HPP and with many of your families. I'll always treasure the memories we've made at the library over the years - and I look forward to making many more! For more information, visit the library levy web site at StrongHudsonLibrary.org.
Stay healthy, friends! Hope to see you all again very soon.
- Kristin Haid, HPP President
president@hudsonpreschoolparents.org
Happy spring, everyone! As I write this note, nature is playing a cruel April Fool's Day joke on us by welcoming the month with some, (cough cough), SNOW. Typical Ohio! Despite the frigid weather, I'm feeling hopeful about a new season and know sunny, warm days will be upon us soon.
As you all are aware, we've had to cancel our annual Children's Fair once again due to current pandemic restrictions. However, I'm thrilled to share details in this newsletter about our Week of the Young Child events, beginning on Monday, April 12! I'm very grateful to the team of women who spent time putting together activities and events for you and your families to enjoy. Be sure to take note of the registration dates for these events below!
I also would like to encourage all of you to vote yes on Issue 1 on May 4 to renew the levy for the Hudson Library & Historical Society. Our library is a fantastic partner with HPP and with many of your families. I'll always treasure the memories we've made at the library over the years - and I look forward to making many more! For more information, visit the library levy web site at StrongHudsonLibrary.org.
Stay healthy, friends! Hope to see you all again very soon.
- Kristin Haid, HPP President
president@hudsonpreschoolparents.org
February 1st, 2021
Happy February, HPP members! I can’t believe we are already one month into 2021. It’s been an eventful month news-wise and I hope everyone is healthy and safe. I’m trying to “lean in” to still being home-bound, for the most part. I’ve read lots of books and magazines, cleaned out closets and played a lot of Trivial Pursuit. But, like all of you, I’m sure, I’m incredibly antsy for a time when we aren’t stuck in the house due to COVID-19.
I’m still not sure when we can resume planning events and activities for all of you and your families. A lot will depend on the vaccine roll-out as well as our ability to get back to outdoor activities (in northeast Ohio, that is always unpredictable). At this point, I’m fairly certain that our annual Week of the Young Child and Children’s Fair will be postponed. Hopefully, we can plan to host these popular events sometime later in the year rather than canceling them altogether.
In the meantime, I hope you are practicing self-care and giving yourself grace for raising young children in a pandemic. It’s not easy! We are certainly clocking a lot of screen time hours in our house. I don’t like it, but it is what it is, and I know when all of this is behind us we will be back to fun activities with family and friends. We will be in touch soon!
Counting the days until spring,
Kristin
- Kristin Haid, HPP President
president@hudsonpreschoolparents.org
Happy February, HPP members! I can’t believe we are already one month into 2021. It’s been an eventful month news-wise and I hope everyone is healthy and safe. I’m trying to “lean in” to still being home-bound, for the most part. I’ve read lots of books and magazines, cleaned out closets and played a lot of Trivial Pursuit. But, like all of you, I’m sure, I’m incredibly antsy for a time when we aren’t stuck in the house due to COVID-19.
I’m still not sure when we can resume planning events and activities for all of you and your families. A lot will depend on the vaccine roll-out as well as our ability to get back to outdoor activities (in northeast Ohio, that is always unpredictable). At this point, I’m fairly certain that our annual Week of the Young Child and Children’s Fair will be postponed. Hopefully, we can plan to host these popular events sometime later in the year rather than canceling them altogether.
In the meantime, I hope you are practicing self-care and giving yourself grace for raising young children in a pandemic. It’s not easy! We are certainly clocking a lot of screen time hours in our house. I don’t like it, but it is what it is, and I know when all of this is behind us we will be back to fun activities with family and friends. We will be in touch soon!
Counting the days until spring,
Kristin
- Kristin Haid, HPP President
president@hudsonpreschoolparents.org
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January, 2021
Thank you to everyone who participated in our community service event! A total of 216 bedtime bags were donated to children in need in Summit County this holiday season. Special thanks to Erin Swain, pictured with a portion of the bags, who coordinated the project. |
December 1st, 2020
Happy holidays, HPP members! Congratulations: we all made it to December. This year has been unlike any other that most of us and our families have ever experienced. Unexpected pressures have been placed on us and our children in a myriad of ways, and yet, we’ve persevered.
I’m so proud to be a part of an organization that celebrates families and provides support for children in their formative years. Being president of this group has been one of the true honors of my life. I’m sad that I haven’t been able to see so many of you in months. As you know, our normal playgroups and events have been put on hold until we can feel confident that they are safe for all of you.
In the meantime, it has been encouraging to see our community come together in tough times in the past few months. Lots of time at home has given me a new perspective on what we have and what we can do without. The resilience and flexibility of our children has been truly inspiring.
Some day we will come out of this period and have a renewed spirit for gatherings with our friends and family. I know the holidays won’t look the same this year, but no matter how you celebrate, I wish you health and happiness now and into 2021.
Looking forward to the day when we can all be back together! Enjoy the holiday season.
- Kristin Haid, HPP President
president@hudsonpreschoolparents.org
November 1st, 2020
Happy November, HPP members! The leaves have fallen and we continue to brave the new reality of our world. At the time I’m writing this, we are still “all-in” or virtual at school. It feels like things can change any day or any minute in these times. It’s a lot to shoulder when we already have a lot to worry about as preschool parents!
I’m disappointed that we probably won’t be celebrating Thanksgiving the “normal” way this year. Most likely, it will only be me, my husband and children on that day to be as careful as possible and protect our aging parents. How do you plan to celebrate the holiday? Although it’s different, I am looking forward to still making fun memories with our immediate family. Spending time together, eating good food, watching football: those traditions won’t change!
Another tradition this month: our annual Chipotle fundraiser to benefit the Integrated Preschool Program at Evamere Elementary. Mark your calendars for no-cook night on November 17 from 4-8 p.m. Use the code VRXR2MF when ordering in-store (or online for pick-up) and Chipotle will donate 33% of your order!
Read on for more details about upcoming events and programs… as I said last month, we can’t do all we normally do, but we’re trying to still provide options and ideas for your little ones! Take care, stay healthy and enjoy the harvest season with your family!
- Kristin Haid, HPP President
president@hudsonpreschoolparents.org
October 1st, 2020
Hello to all of our HPP members! I hope the first few weeks of school have been treating you well and that you and your family are staying happy and healthy. In these unprecedented times, the kick-off of our 2020-21 HPP board year has felt, like most everything else, a lot different. Our defining factor is connection – connecting parents and children with other families with the area and providing resources for an active, engaged childhood. But we are still so limited with how we can meet up with others and establish those connections.
We’ve talked a lot over the past several weeks about how we can still be of service to all of you and maintain the organization you’ve come to depend on for information and events. While we can’t do everything that we would do normally, we CAN still be a resource for you as to what is out there for your kiddos to enjoy. We also can still plan small, informal meet-ups where you’ll have the opportunity to meet other parents and children – within social distancing guidelines, of course. Even as I write this note, we are brainstorming new and creative ways to benefit our members and ensure the spirit of HPP continues in earnest.
It’s membership drive time again. This year we’ve discounted our rate to $20 in 2020… because we know we can’t provide everything we would in a “normal” year. The money you pay for membership dues guarantees your access to all of our programs and information for the next year. In addition, we give back much of the money we receive to local charities and programs, including the Ronald McDonald House of Akron and the Hudson Library & Historical Society. Your support of us means we can support you and other children and families in our area.
I hope that we can all spend time together again soon but until that point, know that we are working hard on keeping HPP alive and well! We would love to get your feedback on how we can best serve you during this unique time. Feel free to reach out to me or anyone else on the board with your comments and suggestions.
- Kristin Haid, HPP President
president@hudsonpreschoolparents.org
Hello to all of our HPP members! I hope the first few weeks of school have been treating you well and that you and your family are staying happy and healthy. In these unprecedented times, the kick-off of our 2020-21 HPP board year has felt, like most everything else, a lot different. Our defining factor is connection – connecting parents and children with other families with the area and providing resources for an active, engaged childhood. But we are still so limited with how we can meet up with others and establish those connections.
We’ve talked a lot over the past several weeks about how we can still be of service to all of you and maintain the organization you’ve come to depend on for information and events. While we can’t do everything that we would do normally, we CAN still be a resource for you as to what is out there for your kiddos to enjoy. We also can still plan small, informal meet-ups where you’ll have the opportunity to meet other parents and children – within social distancing guidelines, of course. Even as I write this note, we are brainstorming new and creative ways to benefit our members and ensure the spirit of HPP continues in earnest.
It’s membership drive time again. This year we’ve discounted our rate to $20 in 2020… because we know we can’t provide everything we would in a “normal” year. The money you pay for membership dues guarantees your access to all of our programs and information for the next year. In addition, we give back much of the money we receive to local charities and programs, including the Ronald McDonald House of Akron and the Hudson Library & Historical Society. Your support of us means we can support you and other children and families in our area.
I hope that we can all spend time together again soon but until that point, know that we are working hard on keeping HPP alive and well! We would love to get your feedback on how we can best serve you during this unique time. Feel free to reach out to me or anyone else on the board with your comments and suggestions.
- Kristin Haid, HPP President
president@hudsonpreschoolparents.org
NEW LEARNING PORTAL
Ohio’s parents and educators have a new resource to help learners ages 3-5 prepare for school and their futures. The easy-to-navigate INFOhio Early Learning Portal contains more than 50 websites and apps chosen and evaluated by educators and librarians with expertise in early learning and literacy.
The INFOhio Early Learning Portal helps preschool children:
- Learn letters, numbers and basic knowledge;
- Interact with other children and adults;
- Engage in meaningful play; and
- Develop focus and problem-solving skills.
The INFOhio Early Learning Portal is a partnership of INFOhio, the Ohio Department of Education, Ohio Department of Job and Family Services and the Office of Gov. John Kasich. Nearly all resources in the portal are free, with a few available for a minimal fee.
Ohio’s parents and educators have a new resource to help learners ages 3-5 prepare for school and their futures. The easy-to-navigate INFOhio Early Learning Portal contains more than 50 websites and apps chosen and evaluated by educators and librarians with expertise in early learning and literacy.
The INFOhio Early Learning Portal helps preschool children:
- Learn letters, numbers and basic knowledge;
- Interact with other children and adults;
- Engage in meaningful play; and
- Develop focus and problem-solving skills.
The INFOhio Early Learning Portal is a partnership of INFOhio, the Ohio Department of Education, Ohio Department of Job and Family Services and the Office of Gov. John Kasich. Nearly all resources in the portal are free, with a few available for a minimal fee.