Looking for ways to foster a STEAM-based (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math) mindset at home? After your child signs up for your local library’s summer reading program, encourage them to check out some STEAM books. STEAM books can not only improve literacy skills in children, they can also boost your child’s innate curiosity and will expose them to the vast, exciting world of science.

In the June/July issue of Northeast Ohio Parent magazine, we feature a few party planners and entertainment experiences to choose from around the region. Check out these advertiser listings and see our party planning directory for more opportunities.

This summer, many families and friends will celebrate special occasions like birthdays or graduations, and some will just spend a few hours together after a long absence due to COVID-19. We asked the Northeast Ohio Parent bloggers to provide some recipes and crafts for the kids to try during these gatherings.

The annual Northeast Ohio Parent Choice Awards celebrates the top recommendations of local parents on everything family-friendly in the region. Learn more about this year's winner and finalists in the “best pediatrician” category.

While the Cleveland Metroparks zoo is home to exotic wildlife from around the world, did you know visitors also can get up close to more domestic animals? Visit the zoo's Kookaburra Station for animal encounters at the contact yard with sheep, goats, miniature donkeys and other farm animals.

This four-day Downtown Cleveland Lakefront festival is an experience for families to enjoy live entertainment, historical exhibits, food, beverages and yes — board the Tall Ships.

Many families will be celebrating the Fourth of July weekend with sparklers, fire pits and bonfires and more. Northeast Ohio Parent spoke with Dr. Anjay Khandelwal, director of the Burn Center at Akron Children’s Hospital who shares tips for campfire, bonfire and fireworks safety during the summer season.

Happy 8th birthday to Kataba and Msinga! These two lions at the Akron Zoo are sisters, but they actually share different birthdates. Find out how they recently celebrated.

Jason Lea, Northeast Ohio Parent columnist, never learned how to ride a bike as a kid, but he recently had to teach his son this skill. Lea shared his experience and a few things he learned in the process, too.

The Shaker Youth LEEDs Committee, a group of high school students, are committed to helping the Shaker community develop a sustainable quality of living. They talk about results from the Shaker Eco Challenge and sustainable lifestyle ideas for families.