As parents, we watch for every milestone — whether you have an infant or school-aged child — with careful caution and hope. We want to ensure our children have the basics down, like eating, talking, and mobility of their hands and feet. When issues do arise, it can be difficult to understand, and we might be tempted to play the blame game with ourselves. But for children who may have any delay, such as with hearing or language, it’s important not to wait.

On the latest episode of aParently Speaking, host, Miriam Conner is joined by the author of "Eternally Expecting", Amy Liz Harrison. Harrison shares her struggle with alcoholism as a mother of eight and her journey to sobriety.

In honor of World Octopus Day, staff at the Greater Cleveland Aquarium recently created this video to highlight the features of its own giant Pacific octopus. Watch and get to know a little bit about this smart cephalopod!

Participate in the celebration of International Observe the Moon Night on Saturday, Oct. 16. This celebration provides opportunities to learn about lunar science and exploration, observe celestial bodies, and honor personal and cultural connections to the Moon.

Cleveland Metropark opened a new natural surface trail in Brecksville Reservation that provides access down into the Chippewa Creek Gorge. They also announced that a new half-acre nature play area in Brecksville Reservation is expected to open later this fall.

Happily, sleep science can help you create a bedroom that’s a sanctuary for sleep. These simple bedroom fixes could put your child’s sleep troubles to rest. Take a few minutes to improve your child’s sleeping space.

To get in the spooky spirit for Cleveland Metroparks Zoo's Trick-or-Treat Fest presented by Citizens, the elephants recently enjoyed a BIG Halloween treat: a 1,200-pound giant pumpkin!

Geauga Park District’s Observatory Park in Montville Township is open daily and all ages can explore the skies this fall. Mark your calendars for upcoming activities such as guided night sky viewing, a near-total Lunar Eclipse, nature journaling and astronomy education. 

Join us for free, fun educational activities and entertainment, which is brought to you by a few crowd favorites, at The Education & STEM Expo 2021 EAST. The event, co-presented by Ohio’s 529 Plan & Northeast Ohio Parent Magazine, will be held on Sunday, October 10, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Acacia Clubhouse at Cleveland Metroparks.

Looking for some festive fall fun or a few not-so-spooky Halloween adventures? Check out these family-friendly autumn and Halloween events taking place throughout the greater Cleveland/Akron area.