Things to do

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. ...

Leah Artman, Northeast Parent blogger of "NEOhio Frugal Living" shares how being stuck at home during the pandemic has led to ah-ha moments, from meal prep, home organization to spending quality time with the family. ...

Visit Sumatran tigers, red pandas and white-cheeked gibbons in the new habitat area. Enjoy live entertainment from the Karen, Burmese, Nepali, Mon, and Hmong cultures. Learn the historical context and hear personal narratives to celebrate the local Asian American community. ...

The park district reopens its 'ropes and boats' recreational offerings. The ropes course season starts on Sunday, May 29. For those craving adventure on the water, self-guided tours of the East Branch Reservoir will begin in June at the Headwaters Park Boathouse. ...

A unique dance and arts event will be held at the Mayfield Drive-In on Friday, May 21. The show includes pop-up dance performances from the Fairmount Dance Company, as well as art activities, a film screening and more! ...

Homeschoolers, join a naturalist for a virtual lesson all about pollinators, then go on a pollinator-themed outdoor scavenger hunt. Students who complete and turn in their hunt checklists at drop-off locations will earn a flower-and insect-themed activity pack (complete with honey samples). ...

Have you ever wondered what causes things to glow in the dark? Find out by watching this video — used as part of the Northeast Ohio Parent KidStream video series — and making your own slime! ...