Family Fun

        Learning time: The Alan R. Mack Parents Center of the Jewish Family Service in Blue Ash begins its fall schedule of classes for parents and children this Tuesday .

        Several parenting classes cover problems from infants to teen-agers. Class titles include Baby Babble, Infant Massage, Raising Safe Kids in an Unsafe World, Active Single Parenting and Active Parenting of Pre-Teens and Teens. Activity classes for 2-year-olds, a Yello Dyno Safety Program for children ages 3-7 and discussion groups for parents round out the schedule.

        Registration and payment is due at least one week prior to session. Times and dates vary per class.$5-$48 non-members, $5-$32 members. 489-1188 or www.jfscinti.org.

Wired Kids

        Wire on ice: Ever wonder what it's like to be an Olympian? What's involved in becoming one of the best athletes in the world?

        Olympic ice hockey medalist Angela Ruggerio of Harrison Township, Mich., writes in her online journal every week at www.MomsTeam.com. Dedicated to a more inclusive youth sports experience, the site offers a unique perspective of the day-to-day trials and tribulations of an athlete preparing for next year's Winter Olympics.

        Ms. Ruggerio's parents will also create a diary to be posted to give visitors a parental perspective.

Advice

        Teacher's pets: While it's been known for some time that caring for the family pet can help children learn responsibility at home, teachers have learned that keeping a pet in the classroom teaches students valuable life lessons both in and out of the classroom.

        According to Purdue University researchers, pets in the classroom can facilitate and improve basic communication skills, self-esteem and confidence levels and social interaction abilities.

        Parents considering whether to introduce a pet into the family might ask to host the classroom pet for a weekend to find out if the child is responsible enough to have a pet at home.

Calendar

        Grand Day: Sept. 9 is “Take Your Senior to Museum Center Day,” 1-4 p.m. Young people can bring their grandparents and senior loved ones to the museum of their choice for free with one paying admission.

        Activities include rotunda performances, arts and crafts and “Waterways to the Queen City,” a Heritage Program. This event is part of the museum's month-long tribute to seniors, “September for Seniors.” 287-7000 or (800) 733-2077.

        Contact Shauna Scott Rhone by phone: 768-8511; fax: 768-8330; e-mail: srhone@enquirer.com.

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