The theme for this year's National Catholic Schools Week — which takes place Jan. 29-Feb. 4. — is “Catholic Schools: Communities of Faith, Knowledge and Service.” Schools typically observe the annual celebration week with masses, open houses and other activities for students, families, parishioners and community members.

Day camps and classes give your child the chance to explore a topic or activity in more depth. They also offer a shorter, more intensive experience — typically including activities, like games or field trips, to help campmates connect with each other. More than 90 percent of campers say that they met people who are different from themselves and made new friends. Many day camps in the region are already enrolling campers for this summer, so now is a good time to explore options and talk with your children about their interests.

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Since Valentine's Day falls on a Tuesday this year, you may want to consider planning the perfect at-home celebration that involves the whole family. Here are some great ideas for a stress-free holiday, courtesy of Whole Foods Market.

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Children are open to new ideas, trying different things, and exploring. So how do you encourage them? You don’t need to spend a lot (or any!) money to nurture your child’s imagination and interests. Here are some ideas to inspire your children to pursue their current interests and discover some new ones.

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Located in Akron, Our Lady of the Elms is an independent, all-girls Catholic school serving grades one through 12, in addition to offering co-educational preschool and kindergarten programs. Its modern facilities on 33 scenic acres are home to nearly 300 students from various ethnic, cultural and religious backgrounds.