Worth Noting

Nature and science centers offer hands-on activities and exhibits that provide not only fun, but plenty of learning opportunities. If you’re looking for nature or science centers, check out the following recommendations throughout the Greater Cleveland/Akron area. ...

If you’ve stepped foot in a carpool line or your own living room lately, you’ve probably seen it: kids squeezing, squishing and obsessing over toys like NeeDoh. It might look like a passing trend, but according to experts, there’s a lot more going on beneath the squish. ...

Asian Lantern Festival, presented by Meijer, returns to Cleveland Metroparks Zoo from Thursday, July 9, through Sunday, Aug. 23. Experience the wonder of Cleveland Metroparks Zoo illuminated after dark, featuring live performances on the Fifth Third Bank Stage and a variety of culturally-inspired cuisine at the MetroHealth Asian Food Market. ...

Akron Zoo broke ground on its next major expansion. Lehner Family Foundation Giraffe Journey is expected to open in 2028. Giraffe Journey will introduce multiple new species for the Akron Zoo – giraffes, ostriches, wildebeests and Marabou storks. This will be the largest expansion to date in the Akron Zoo history at approximately 9.25 acres. ...

The new exhibition at the Great Lakes Science Center opens today and features more than 200 authentic artifacts recovered from the Titanic wreck site. Guests can also explore interactive experiences that introduce them to the ship’s real passengers, including touch screens and boarding passes, an audio tour, and a virtual reality experience. ...

Northeast Ohio Parent Giveaway Alert! We are giving away three copies of "Rayne Climbs Up" by local author Tasha L. Wilburn. This story, inspired by Wilburn's daughter Rayne, who was diagnosed with Eby's Palsy, celebrates courage, determination and the power of doing things differently. See details on how to enter! ...

The Northeast Ohio Parent Choice Awards sought to gather the opinions of local parents on everything family-friendly in the region. And, you, the readers, delivered. Thank you to everyone who voted! Winner and runner-ups announced in early June! ...

 The Akron Zoo will be introducing several new species as renovations and updates to its "Legends of the Wild" area are completed. Learn about the new animals that will make their debut on Saturday, May 16.  ...

If it feels like siblings can go from laughing to arguing in seconds, often over something that seems insignificant, it’s not unusual. In fact, what looks like “annoying for no reason” is usually part of normal childhood development. ...

 The Maltz Museum announced the winners of the 2026 Stop the Hate Youth Speak Out and Youth Sing Out Contest. Each year, the contest awards $100,000 to Northeast Ohio middle and high school students, teachers, and schools who take a stand against hate and discrimination. ...