Things to do

Summer reading is a favorite tradition for many families, a way to have fun and prevent the “summer slide” during the break from school. Even though area libraries may still have reduced services or limited hours, many are finding ways to keep this summer staple an option. ...

If you plan to hit the road this summer, consider ways to avoid fast food by making your own munchies for the road. It saves time and money, lets you make fewer stops, and breaks up the boredom of long car rides. Plus eating nutritious foods is healthier. Whether you are traveling in an RV or a car, here are some tips for the best foods to pack that the whole family will enjoy — and that will keep you on the road longer. ...

Cleveland Metroparks Zoo today announced the return of Asian Lantern Festival. Beginning on July 14, the zoo will be transformed with more than 1,000 new illuminated lanterns, live acrobatic performances and culturally-inspired cuisine. ...

Don’t feel you need to travel the Pacific Coast Highway, the Blue Ridge Parkway or any of the other famed roads throughout America. Start planning a summer road trip in Ohio and its surrounding states. Within a few hours’ drive, the whole family can spend the day at these unique attractions. ...

Enjoy the whimsical delight and wonder of the classic story “Alice in Wonderland,” reimagined as the ballet “Alice” and set in a spirited circus ring. The Great Lakes Science Center partners with the Cleveland Ballet for this special outdoor presentation on the front lawn of the Science Center at 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Friday, June 11. ...

In the beginning of summer, it seems like days of limitless possibility stretch before us. But it won't be long before choruses of “I’m bored” start to echo throughout the house. Keep your kids — and yourself — entertained with these fun ideas, with a few extra ideas thrown in for good measure. ...

The results are in! Each year, we ask our readers and online followers to weigh in on their favorite family-friendly spots — local businesses, attractions, family services and more — in the Northeast Ohio Parent Choice Awards. While some longtime favorites topped the ballots again this year, they’re joined by several new honorees in 26 categories. Find out which places were chosen as winners and finalists for 2021! ...

Wild Asia is now open at the Akron Zoo! The brand new area, Lehner Family Foundation Wild Asia, features Sumatran tigers, red pandas and white-cheeked gibbons. ...

"Telling A People’s Story: African-American Children’s Illustrated Literature" includes 130 pieces of art by 33 artists from 95 books spanning 50 years of creativity. The free exhibit runs from June 3 through August 29. Children 12 and younger can win a prize by reading the books highlighted in the exhibit. ...

Amy Chand, exercise physiologist for Akron Children’s Healthy Active Living program, shares five ways to keep your toddler on the move and smiling — maybe even giggling — all summer long. She says getting kids active and outdoors is not only a great way to turn those frowns upside down, it’s important for their health, too. Even easier, these games can be played right in your own backyard. ...