October beacons for us to notice and share in its unique fall beauty. This is the month to initiate outdoor activities and to become invigorated by crisp air and autumn colors.
It is also the month to think in terms of multigeneration activities. Consider outdoor activities that parents, children and grandparents can do together. Whether your child is riding in a stroller, pedaling a bike or walking beside you — remember to include a grandparent or elderly neighbor. Take advantage of the local park system where there are paths designed to accommodate all levels of physical exercise. Make this an adventure where multiple generations share the out-of-doors, each at their own physical ability level.
Walk with strollers to wheelchairs
Parks with easy walking for all abilities include those parks that have a paved walkway coupled with interesting views. My number one choice for a multigeneration walk in Greater Cincinnati is the International Friendship Park located on Eastern Ave/River Road in downtown Cincinnati. Drive past Montgomery Inn and the next parking lot is for the park. A big plus is the on-site free parking, including handicapped parking spaces. The park consists of a beautifully designed winding paved path, which meanders parallel to the Ohio River. As you walk, look to one side for an Ohio River view and the other side for contemporary structures and planted gardens. The International Friendship Park is designed as a series of spaces called the Gardens of Continents. Each area has a unique planted space including outdoor sculptures. One can rest at any point along the paved walkway on the low walls designed for sitting. Within the Garden of Europe is a large contemporary structure of mirrors. Children will be delighted as they see themselves reflected in this large multi mirrored structure. The International Friendship Park offers a free of cost afternoon that will get your walking muscles moving, stimulate your visual senses and encourage positive interaction between children, parents and grandparents.
On the East side of town is Ault Park in Hyde Park with a paved walkway surrounded by lovely small gardens created by local garden clubs. For those able to climb stairs, there is an additional pavilion where you can view the park filled with trees exhibiting their colorful autumn leaves. When you complete your walk there are picnic tables and an additional walk to a vista overlooking Lunken Airport. On the West side of town is Winton Woods with its Harbor Loop Trail which circles the lake. For those who want a hike in the woods, cross to the entrance on the opposite side of the park. Multiple hiking trails into wooded areas follow a meandering stream providing excellent autumn trails. Note that the Hamilton County Parks one day entrance fee per car is $5.00 (resident) and $8.00 (non resident), or purchase an annual pass for $10.00 or $16.00 respectively. There is no entrance fee to use the Cincinnati Park District parks. Greater Cincinnati is fortunate to have county, city and community parks where multiple generations can walk or sit together to enjoy the beauty of autumn.
Identify birds and trees
Add to the pleasure of these multi-generation excursions by bringing along a bird or tree identification guide. You can choose to identify birds, trees, butterflies and wild flowers by using either a guide book or identification app on your cell phone. Together with your children, look for identifying features and chart your discoveries. Once back home, review with your children the wonders of nature you observed during your walk. Make this a leisurely outing where parents and grandparents share in the delight of children as they learn from and experience nature.
Pick apples at local orchards
Apple picking is another fall multigeneration activity that can be enjoyed during October. Locally apple picking is typically available starting September 1st and continuing through October. In Greater Cincinnati there are several orchards with apple picking available located in Lebanon, Ohio and on River Road in Hebron, Kentucky. Depending on where you live, these locations may afford an opportunity to combine a drive with an outdoor physical activity. Among local apple varieties are Jonathan, Gala, McIntosh, Honey Crisp, Winesap, Early Blaze and Cortland. On your drive home, you can taste the different types of apples, thus a healthy family treat to conclude a fun afternoon.
View Riverboats on Ohio River Banks
October 8 – 12, the American River Roots Festival will be holding a five day event along the banks of the Ohio River. This is an exciting opportunity to share Cincinnati’s riverfront history with your children. Families can walk together as you listen to the river boats’ calliopes, watch turning paddlewheels and view a period of local history. There are nine riverboats and eight music stages scheduled as part of this event. Free music performances include national, emerging and local acts performing multiple genres of River Roots music. In addition to the free activities are cruises, food and merchandise for purchase. The most affordable cruise options are a selection of Family Sightseeing cruises offered during the weekend with starting fees of $20. Assume that you will need to pay for parking. Depending on your pocketbook, you have the option to make purchases or simply take advantage of sharing with family the free activities which create an electric atmosphere reflecting life when steamboats were the mode of transportation along the Ohio River.
Fall is a special time of year when we are aware of nature’s beauty. Take the initiative to share this beautiful time with your family by engaging in a multigeneration outdoor activity. You will find that children, parents and grandparents will always remember sharing this enjoyable time together.
Joan welcomes your comments and ideas.
parentingplus@americanisralite.com
