Lincoln Kids Spring 2021 by Lincoln Kids Magazine

Your seasonal guide to family fun & resources | Spring 2021 | Year 28, Issue 109 | FREE! Take one!

ER SUMM IDE GU CAMP Page 8

K E E P L IN C O LN GREEN T H IS S P R IN G â&#x20AC;&#x201D; R E C YC L E! Page 38

SPRING WITH N OW TIES!

CTIV A E R MO

INTO STEAM

with

lnk kidpreneurs fair MAY 15, 2021

Inspire the mindset of an entrepreneur in your child at the LNK Kidpreneur Fair! Kids develop a brand, create a product or service, build a marketing strategy, and then are open for customers at our one-day marketplace.Â We will host up to 36 youth start-up businesses on Saturday, May 15 from 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm in downtown Lincoln.

Event Activities: 11:00 am: Participant Check-In, Set-up & Sneak Peek Shopping 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm: Public Marketplace & Judging 3:00 pm - 3:30 pm: Awards Ceremony

An optional free Launch workshop will be held on Saturday, March 27. This free workshop offers hands-on help and ample inspiration to participants and parents alike! Our youth are capable of far more than we can imagine.Â When we can inspire them through stories of entrepreneurs who have gone before, emphasize the journey of growth over the result itself, and give them the opportunity to learn through real-world, hands-on experiences, these #kidpreneurs will be inspired to discover their most precious gifts.

SPRING 2O21

FROM THE PUBLISHER Dear Lincoln Kids Readers and Friends, When you are a young parent, you always hear, “It goes by so fast.” But, while you are changing diapers, wiping noses, failing at nap time, and losing the picky eater battle, it can be hard to believe. But, it does. This February will mark my 18th year of being a MOM. Is that really possible? It’s surreal to type that and silently celebrate my 18th Moma-Versary. I don’t think mom-a-versaries are a thing, but I’m willing to start a new trend. As I’ve been preparing for my oldest child’s high school graduation and sifting through boxes and boxes of photos— because who has time to get that all organized when they are little?— I’ve been so grateful to raise my kids in Lincoln. And, wow, did I keep them busy! I found pictures of Dawson at Camp Sonshine, Meadowlane Nursery School, The Children’s Museum, Lost in Fun, Lincoln Children’s Zoo, Morrill Hall, Paint Yourself Silly, Nature Center, and all sorts of other kid-friendly places. It’s been so fun to reminisce on all the things we did together and to celebrate the success of these organizations. These places make Lincoln an incredible place to raise kids. As you turn the pages of Lincoln Kids this spring, I hope you find a new adventure for your child. Maybe it’s music lessons or exploring one of our 133 Parks. Take the pictures, savor the moments, and enjoy the ride!

THE LK TEAM

Cheering you on at every phase,

Christine Weeks, Owner / Publisher

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Spark!

Lincoln Littles

Five Ways to Show Animals You Love Them

You Are Here

Summer Camps 2O21

Know Their Strengths

Lincoln Parks Scavenger Hunt

Five Signs of Spring

Wellness for a Lifetime Lincoln Family Medicine Center

Keeping Kids Moving During COVID

All About PCIT Parent-Child Interaction Therapy

Loving Your Library

Keeping Lincoln Green

Cursive: Yes or No?

Business Directory

Stay tuned for our next issue: May 2021

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SPARK Summer Learning Camps We know summer seems like a long time from now, but it’s right around the corner. Do you have a plan for your child’s summer? Don’t panic. We’ve got you covered. Register for Spark Summer Learning Camps and spark a future passion for your child with our STEAMfocused curriculum. Spark is a high-energy, hands-on opportunity to create, explore, and be inspired through science, technology, engineering, art, and math — STEAM, all summer long for kids grades K - 5.

8 We care about kids. Really. Our staff is made up of educators and individuals pursuing careers in education.

7 The cost is only $199/week!* Consider it an investment that keeps on giving and is full of exciting opportunities. *Full-time enrollment.

6 Choosing Spark is Easy. Here are 10 Reasons Why.

10 Options. Full-day and half-day options, at your service!

9 Hours that let you keep your day job. Our before-care starts bright and early at 7 AM and after-care goes until 6 PM.

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Extra— without extra cost. Did we mention that before and after-care is included in the price? Because let’s be honest, math.

Really— all of the extras!

You don’t have to choose. We’ve got it all.

Meals are included too! Filed under -> “Who has time to prep a sack lunch? It’s summer.”

Remember the time your child was so into [fill in the blank: dinosaurs, fire trucks, ice skating, horses, etc.] only for them to be completely over it the next week? Our weekly themes are designed to spark curiosity and keep kids intrigued week-to-week.

Bonus week. Sign up for a full 10-week program and we’ll give you the flexibility to take one week off, free of charge. Going to the lake for a week? Awesome. Visiting the grandparents for a week? Nice. We won’t make you pay for it.

Bonus reason. As if you need another reason. As a program of the Foundation for Lincoln Public Schools, all of the profit goes back into doing more good for kids!

Field Trips: So. Many. Field. Trips.

Convinced?

Places we’ve gone in the past include: Lincoln Children’s Zoo, Pioneers Park, and UNL’s Nanoscience Lab. The city is our playground.

Get that “just crossed an item off my to-do list” feeling and don’t miss your chance to enroll in Spark Summer Learning.

Get early VIP registration on Feb. 15, 2021 by signing up for our e-newsletter here.

Stand-out STEAM curriculum right here in Lincoln. Did we mention that our curriculum is based on the Boston Museum of Science curriculum? Yep, it’s that good.

General registration begins March 1, 2021 on our website. Find more information about Spark, STEAM curriculum, and this summer’s upcoming schedule at sparksummer.org/spark/for-parents

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LINCOLN LITTLES

Supporting the Future of Lincoln S T O R Y B Y M A R Y K AY R O T H

Early childcare providers are finding their own support thanks to the Lincoln Littles organization. They have been caring for our community’s tiniest citizens throughout the pandemic.

“Lincoln Littles is like finding sanctuary, a godsend, a one-stop shop.” — J A N I C E A N D E R S O N , A D M I N I S T R AT O R F O R WEST A STREET KINDERCARE

Childcare providers can find a friendly smile at the new Lincoln Littles office, as well as: answers to questions, an understanding conversation, protective gear, guidance to ever-changing rules, and resources for families struggling to pay childcare costs. “We are trying to find our way through an incredibly stressful situation,” Anderson said. “But when I call this special organization, I come away refreshed and recharged… I cannot imagine going through this pandemic without the staff at Lincoln Littles.” Anne Brandt, Executive Director of Lincoln Littles, asserts there has never been a better time for our community to support early childhood: families, children, and providers. “The pandemic presents challenges as the early childcare landscape shifts,” Brandt said.

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“Childcare providers have worked valiantly to stay afloat in these pandemic times, and it has been remarkable to watch their dedication. But we need community-wide solutions to help fulfill the mission of Lincoln Littles: Ensuring all children have access to high-quality early childhood care.” Suzanne Schneider, Associate Director of Lincoln Littles, agreed, “The pandemic has shone a bright light on how childcare employees are essential workers. When schools closed, childcare providers did not. They stayed open. They continued to serve children.” To continue the support for Lincoln’s tiniest citizens during such a challenging year, the Lincoln Community Foundation will host the third annual Lincoln Littles Giving Day in honor of Abe’s birthday. The giving day will raise funds for tuition assistance, allowing more children from working, lower-income families to access quality early childhood education programs. Launched in 2019 and inspired by the Prosper Lincoln agenda on Early Childhood, the day has raised $1.3 million to assist more than 300 children. The funds raised on February 12 will be granted to pre-qualified early childhood providers who are on Step 2 or higher on Nebraska’s Step Up to Quality rating system. Donations may be made online at LincolnLittles.org through Feb. 12, or mailed to the Lincoln Community Foundation, 215 Centennial Mall South, Suite 100, Lincoln, NE 68508. “We dream of the day that affordability is not a barrier for high-quality childcare,” said Brandt. For more information, visit LincolnLittles.org.

Give to our

littles. Help a lot.

On Friday, February 12, Abraham Lincoln’s birthday, the Lincoln Community Foundation will host Lincoln Littles Giving Day. This one special day, inspired by Prosper Lincoln, gives people like you the opportunity to help more children in need have a quality early childhood education. Go to LincolnLittles.org and give to our little ones. It means a lot to the future of this great community. LincolnLittles.org

An early childhood education initiative.

Matching fund sponsors: Mae Whitmer Early Childhood Fund (Lead Sponsor) - Buffett Early Childhood Fund - Nebraska Children and Families Foundation - Susan Sehnert Stuart - Krieger Family Foundation Bettenhausen Family Foundation - In memory of Professor James D. Carr - Complete Children’s Health Kile & Virginia Johnson - Labenz & Associates LLC - Drs. Marilyn & David Moore - Nelnet - Helen Raikes in Memory of Senator Ron Raikes - Drs. Bob & Lisa Rauner - Sue & Al Saathoff - Donald & Janice Svehla Family Tom & Susan Tallman - Union Bank & Trust Company - Dr. Eileen & Richard Vautravers - Ross & Judy Wilcox

LEARN GROW PLAY Before/After School & Preschool Programs at the YMCA of Lincoln

Registration for the 2021 school year is now open. Secure your child’s spot today! Register at ymcalincoln.org!

MAKIT ANYTIME! Drop in crafting is open with social distance precautions. Walk in or reserve a time online!

SPLATTER ROOM IS OPEN!!!

COME SEE OUR E!!! NEW SPAC 4750 NORMAL BLVD #3 MAKITTAKIT.COM // 402-483-4232

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FIVE WAYS TO SHOW ANIMALS YOU LOVE THEM BY CHARLEEN ENGBERG & VICKIE SUNDQUIST C A P I TA L H U M A N E S O C I E T Y

2 Pets bring their families so much happiness with their unconditional love. You may think that you need to provide special treats or gifts to show you care: however, love really means being there for them and making their care a priority so that they lead healthy, happy lives. Here are five ways to show real love to your pet. 1 Healthy Diet Remember to give your pet the correct amount of food to maintain a healthy weight. Some animals that come to Capital Humane Society are very overweight or underweight. People can avoid this by paying attention to the kind and amount of food they are providing. Read food labels and look for healthy ingredients.

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Talk to your veterinarian about correct portion size, so you don’t feed too much or too little. Remember that chocolate, raisins, onions, and many other foods that may be okay for people can be toxic to pets. Be smart and put dangerous types of food out of reach so your pet cannot get to them. If you decide to offer a special treat once in a while, research healthy options.

Proper Vet Care Keep your pets current on vaccinations, regular health exams, and routine deworming. If you need to find a vet, consider asking a family member or friend that you trust for a recommendation. Your pet will need to be seen by a veterinarian for routine wellness exams and if they become ill. Sometimes, a change in behavior may alert you that something is wrong. My normally friendly cat started hissing a lot and not wanting to play. When we took her to the veterinarian, it was determined that she needed some dental work. After she recovered she felt better and went back to being her friendly self. Making sure your companion animal feels good is a very important way to show you care.

❤️

3 Adequate Exercise All pets need regular exercise to stay healthy. When selecting a pet for adoption consider how much exercise they need. For example, an active dog will need many walks. Exercise, playtime, and training are very important for your pet’s physical and mental well-being. Find safe toys to use and make the time to provide proper exercise, such as interactive playtime. Pets that do not get sufficient exercise may develop inappropriate behaviors, like chewing out of boredom. Training is also a great way to provide stimulation and

drains your pet’s energy in a productive way. Animals are smart; people just need to learn how to provide reward-based and consistent direction to bring out the best in them. 4 Grooming Some pets arrive at Capital Humane Society that have not been properly groomed. Their fur may be patchy due to issues like fleas or it may be matted because no one has brushed them. Different species and breeds have varying grooming needs. For example, a poodle will need more attention than a short-haired cat. Research the grooming needs for your pet to make sure you are using the proper tools and products. You may need to have a professional groomer do the work. Your veterinarian can offer great advice on what products work best, as well as information about flea and tick prevention medications to consider. Make sure to keep toenails properly trimmed. This includes not only dogs and cats, but rabbits and guinea pigs as well. 5

Commitment Pets are a long-time commitment. So make sure to adopt an animal that will become a part of your family. Even small companion animals at Capital Humane Society, such as guinea pigs, are looking for forever homes.

Before adopting a pet, research their needs and life expectancy. Carefully consider if you have the time, space, and means to care for them for their entire lifetime. The staff at Capital Humane Society appreciates getting updates from our adopters describing how much they adore their new furry friends. It warms our hearts to know how many people truly care about their pets and show their love by making animals feel safe, comfortable, and happy. In sum, our pets know we love them by the actions we take.

“It reminds me of Winnie the Pooh’s response to Piglet’s question, “How do you spell love?” Pooh said, “You don’t spell it, you feel it.”

This means a family must prioritize the pet´s proper care.

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WELC OME TO OU R L I N COL N K I D S

Summer Camp GUIDE It’s a bright, exciting world out there. There’s so much to see and discover— people to meet, lessons to learn, and fun to be had. This year, more than ever, we know how important it is to get out from behind screens and back into real life. In the pages that follow, we’ve packed some of our favorite activities from around the city, which can make your Lincoln Kid’s summer holiday a blast, and keep minds sharp and bodies active. Now is the time to plan for the months ahead. Have fun, stay healthy, and happy exploring!

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Summer Art Camps May 31-August 13, 2021

Immerse your child in creative fun at Lincoln's LUX Center for the Arts! Each day campers will explore new art techniques, work with real artists, and make their own artwork while learning and refining Explore new their own artistic abilities. LUX summer camps are led by our art techniques, skilled teaching artists who will guide your child through learn from skilled artists, create hands-on learning in a fun and friendly environment. Week-long art camps + childcare available for youth ages 5-16! At this time we are planning on COVID still being an issue in our community this summer. Masks are still required for staff and students. The number of participants is limited to 6 so we can seat students at a safe distance from each other. If the Lancaster County COVID risk dial moves to yellow or green we will reevaluate and notify parents of any changes.

original works of art, and make lasting friendships and memories!

Register online at LUXCenter.org/Camps LUX Center for the Arts | 2601 N 48th St, Lincoln, NE 68504 | 402.466.8692 | www.luxcenter.org

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Learn about all the fun things you can make with clay! Students will build and glaze small sculptures and functional pieces. $150 | $120 LUX Members

STEAM • Ages 5-12

Learn to think outside the box by connecting Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics! Multiple art mediums will be explored as students incorporate STEAM topics into their art projects. $125 | $100 LUX Members

Art Sampler • 5-16

Students will have a blast learning about all kinds of art: painting, drawing, ceramics, and mixed media art! Projects will change daily and from camp to camp so our repeat campers can try it all and build their skills all summer long. $125 | $100 LUX Members

Paint + Draw • Ages 5-16

Students will build their skills in painting + drawing. The first half of each day will be spent learning techniques and the second half will be spent creating a finished project. Experienced students are welcome to join us to continue to improve their skills! Projects will change daily and from camp to camp so our repeat campers can try it all and build their skills all summer long. $125 | $100 LUX Members

Theatre Camp • Ages 7-10

Create, rehearse, and perform a short play in one week! Your child will work on creating costumes, props, and sets while learning the fundamentals of acting and performing. Camp will culminate in a final sharing on Friday afternoon for all to enjoy. $125 | $100 LUX Members

Clay Sculpture • Ages 9-16

Work with the instructor to make your own ideas come to life in clay! Beginning students will work on projects exploring the fundamentals of clay while advanced students will work on more self-guided projects. $150 | $120 LUX Members

Pottery Wheel • Ages 9-16

Learn to use the pottery wheel! The first class will focus on the fundamentals of starting a project on the wheel and the basic knowledge needed to master this essential step. Each subsequent class session will cover additional throwing and finishing techniques. Beginning and experienced students are welcome. $150 | $120 LUX Members

T-Shirt + Tote Bag Design • Ages 9-16

Students in this class will have a blast learning about different methods they can use to create their own clothing designs! Both screen printing and block printing methods will be covered. Tote bags and plain white t-shirts are provided. Students are welcome to bring additional items to print from home or thrift store. $125 | $100 LUX Members

Metal Art • Ages 13-16

Students will work with copper, nickel, and brass to learn how to shape, form and fuse metal! Make your own jewelry and art while learning to create texture with the rolling mill, attach with an acetylene torch, and finish your own unique metal projects. $150 | $120 LUX Members

Camp Care • All Ages

Add before care or lunch care to your child’s camp registration! More information online. 8am-9am - Before Care $20 per week 12-2pm - Lunch Care $40 per week

View the full schedule of camps at LUXcenter.org/camps • Become a LUX Member and save 20% on art classes!

Clay Creations • Ages 5-8

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mazing summer cam a t s o m e h ps to t

Cotton Candy Carnival • June 1 - 5 Princess Camp • June 21 - 25 Fairy Garden Party • July 19 - 23

9:00 AM - 10:30 AM (AGES 3-4) 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM (AGES 5-6) 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM (AGES 3-4) 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM (AGES 5-6) 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM (AGES 3-4) 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM (AGES 5-6)

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2021 CAMP WEEKS

35 summers of hands-on learning experiences • STEAM* based camps • Half-day and full-day camps on engaging topics • Flexible around summer sport schedules • Before Care and Lunch Care available • Need-based scholarships available

June 7–11 June 14–18 June 21–25 June 28–July 2 July 12–16 Registration begins

SATURDAY FEB. 27

* Science, technology, engineering, arts & math

Learn about animal behaviors and nutrition. Explore a day in the life of a veterinarian. Perform a simulated exploratory surgery. Interact with live animals each day.

BrightLights.org

PRAIRIE HILL Learning Center www.prairiehill.com

(402) 438-6668

Summer Camps Nature-centered day camp programs for children ages 6-13.

Various dates & themes all summer • Overnight options & pony rides, too!

SAVE $25 ENTER THIS CODE AT CHECKOUT:

LK21A

Junior Vet Camp

Intermediate Vet Camp

Students completing 2nd - 5th grade Mon.-Thurs. 8 am - 4 pm • June & July

Students completing 6th - 8th grade Mon.-Fri. 8 am - 4 pm • June & July

For registration, date, and location information, visit:

www.oxbowvetcamp.com

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“

When we moved back to Lincoln in 2007, I had four kids under the age of four (yikes!). Even though they were little, I wanted them to have that *awesome* summer camp experience! It wasn’t long after our move, that I met Jeff and Trisha Keiser. They were starting a new summer camp - Camp Sonshine - and it sounded like everything I wanted for my kids: outdoor adventures, go-carts, swimming, acting, music, friends and more.

c. 2011

In the summer of 2008, Dawson, who is now a Senior in high school, packed his lunch, swimsuit, towel, bug spray, hat, positive attitude, and headed off to his first week of camp as a kindergartner — and he was hooked! He loved the energy of camp, the unique activities, and especially all the goodies he could buy from Nana’s Snack Shack! Now, 12 years later, all of my kids have experienced the magic of Camp Sonshine. And, as teens, they are still involved as Leaders in Training (LIT) and Assistant Counselors (AC). If you are looking for a camp experience this summer for your kiddos, I would highly recommend Camp Sonshine where they are making memories and changing lives.

Ellie as an AC, 2020

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— CHRISTINE WEEKS, LINCOLN KIDS

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New exhibit open until September 2021 2,000 square feet of socially-distanced family fun Let your kids explore, make noise, & think like a scientist

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museum.unl.edu

Know Their STRENGTHS With StrengthsExplore

BY BRANDON MCWILLIAMS

personalities and in return become aware of how to use our own natural talents to be the best parents that we can be! If you are interested in learning more about the StrengthsExplore and how to take it, please email Brandon@mcwilliamscoaching.com or visit mcwilliamscoaching.com for more information.

My friend has twin daughters and she likes to say they are the most “identical-looking, fraternal twins.” They certainly look alike and for most of their lives, the twins have been called the same name by their peers MileyZoe. Even though one is named, Miley and the other is Zoe.

ZOE 1. Relating

If you sit down to visit with Miley and Zoe for a minute, they’ll be sure to let you know who is who. As you can see by the graphic on the right, while they share similar DNA, they are uniquely different. Whether you have singletons, twins, triplets, or quads, it’s important to focus on each child’s strengths. When you know your child’s strengths you have an incredible opportunity to help them unleash their hidden potential. As a strengths-based coach, I love Clifton’s StrengthsExplore for kids. It provides an early glimpse of where your child’s talent might be hidden. StrengthsExplore was created for youth, ages 10 - 14, to help them (and parents) understand their natural talents. StrengthsExplore is the youth version of the StrengthsFinder assessment. It helps you understand how individuals naturally think, feel, and behave. This assessment gives us the ability to use a universal positive language to help identify the good things about people rather than focusing on what is wrong with them. This blueprint will identify your children’s talents and help you to create an environment best for them. We can begin to shine a light on the positive aspects of their

2. Achieving 3. Confidence

MILEY 1. Achieving 2. Future Thinker 3. Competing

Brandon McWilliams is a Lincoln native and certified Gallup Strengths coach. He is currently coaching youth at Lincoln Lighthouse, Community Action, Eyes on Lincoln, and passionate indiviuals around the nation.

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MADLIBS

Driving your parents crazy? Try driving the ball (PREPOSITION)

the fairway at Ager Golf Course.

Grab a friend, grab a pencil, fill in the blanks, and roll with laughter!

These are just a few of my

Spring Break is coming and we don’t have a(n)

stay busy

to waste planning this

(UNIT OF TIME)

week

(ADJECTIVE)

! Never fear. Use the LK Top 8 List of

(NOUN)

and Insta-

No bones about it, you

( A DV E R B )

must visit Morrill

dinosaur adventure into the

(ADJECTIVE)

to visit Paint Yourself Silly. Hone

(ADJECTIVE)

your inner

( PA R T O F T H E B O DY )

-book

for more ideas.

( FA M O U S P E R S O N )

( V E R B , N O -S O R - I N G E N D I N G )

(ANIMAL)

Noun: person, place, thing, or idea Verb: an action (doesn’t always, but can end in -ing or -s) Adjective: describes a noun Adverb: describes a verb or how an action is done, i.e.) quickly

prehistoric past. Color us

( A N A R T I C L E O F C LO T H I N G )

Key

Capital City!

Hall for a(n)

ideas to

over Spring Break.

Follow Lincoln Kids Magazine on

Things to do over Spring Break in the

(ADJECTIVE)

(NUMBER)

for some creativity.

Preposition: a word that tells us where or when something is in relation to something else. ie) the man on the platform

to the Lincoln Children’s Zoo to

-around for a(n)

(UNIT OF TIME)

. Specially-trained children’s stylists All the latest styles for your family

Get lost! Not really, but you should find yourself delightfully Lost-in-Fun for at least a few

Fun play area & video games Adult haircuts & facial waxing, too!

(UNIT OF TIME)

over the break.

Specializing in squirmers!

M-F 9:30am-5:45pm Sat 9am-2:45pm

Read all about it! Lincoln City Libraries and Francie & Finch Book Store have page after

(NOUN)

places and adventures to help you escape. Just keep

(VERB ENDING IN -ING)

and Swimtastic have

! YMCA, Genesis, Float4life,

(ADJECTIVE)

to get you ready for the

(ADJECTIVE)

swimming lessons Nebraska summer.

Gone fishing lately? Probably not. Once the ice

( V E R B , E N D I N G I N -S )

, Holmes Lake is a

fisherperson’s paradise.

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(402) 484-7866 | 237 S. 70th Street, Ste 106

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Sandhill Cranes are a protected species. Paying attention to nature can save entire animal species. Look at the images of the Sandhill Cranes. What differences can you see? In the early spring, Sandhill Cranes gather on the Platte River in Nebraska. This migration is incredible, as over a quarter of a million birds are present at one time.

When is the Sandhill Cranes’ Migration in Nebraska in 2021? The cranes usually start arriving in mid-February, continuing in waves until mid-April. The peak is typically the last week of March.

For Kids and Families, see what’s happening at Rowe Sanctuary:

The Nebraska Audubon’s Crane Season Tour Dates for 2021 are March 6 - April 11.

5) There’s an additional rock by the crane’s tail. 6) There’s a fish in the river. 7) The ripples have mirrored. ANSWERS: 1) The cloud has moved in front of the sun. 2) One of the birds turns into a plane. 3) There’s an additional plane on the right. 4) The crane’s eye feathers have changed color.

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University of Nebraskaâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Lincoln Glenn Korff School of Music

UNDERGRADUATE AUDITION DATES To help protect the health and safety of our music and dance community, spring 2021 auditions for all incoming fall 2021 undergraduate and graduate applicants to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Glenn Korff School of Music will be held remotely. For most areas of study, this will require uploading a video of your audition onto a platform such at VidGrid, Vimeo, or YouTube and then submitting the link to that video.

Stay tuned for Fall 2021 Registration!

All Auditions for Fall 2021 are remote. All audition links must be submitted by 5 p.m., Feb. 6. Learn more at: music.unl.edu and the Prospective Students button. Dance Bachelor Music Bachelor Bachelor Bachelor

of Arts of Arts of Music of Music Education

The University of Nebraska does not discriminate based upon any protected status. Please see go.unl.edu/nondiscrimination. To learn more visit: music.unl.edu

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BEETHOVEN STREAMED CONCERT

April 25 | 2:00 PM William Shomos, actor

PETER AND THE WOLF STREAMED CONCERT May 16 | 2:00 PM William Shomos, actor

Streaming links to both concerts are free as a gift from LSO. Reserve a link today! LINCOLNSYMPHONY.COM | (402) 476-2211

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The Elevation of Excellence Celebrating 10 years

Ages 2â&#x20AC;&#x201C;18 | Register online at intermixdance.com 2755 Jamie Lane, Ste. 7

402-904-6753

Photography credit Jennifer Schultz

! E D I S T U O t e G

Come out and PLAY!

Pioneers Park Nature Center C AMP SPRING NATURE

ploring nature Spend the week ex k. Ages 6-13. during spring brea

SUMMER NATUR C AMPS

y camps explore Weekly themed da ut summer. nature througho Ages: 3-17yrs rksrec

Parker Rex

Lincoln Parks & Recreation masco t Summer Day Camps are all about creating memories, exploring new adventures, making friends, and celebrating being a kid. Weekly day camps from May-August at various locations throughout Lincoln. Need-based scholarships available. Title XX accepted at most locations. Follow us for program updates and fun activities to do at home!

@LNKparksrec

parks.lincoln.ne.gov

ROUND!

Break into the game with Lincoln City Golf Academy, the home for junior golf. Ages 4-6yrs, 6-9yrs, 9-12yrs, 12-16yrs.

FOOTGOLF AT AGER

(soccer + golf) FootGolf can be played right along side a regular golfer, and it is fun for any age! Birthday party packages available!

lincolncitygolf.org

LOOKING FOR A PEDIATRICIAN? Call 402-465-5600 today! Follow CCH on Facebook for updates & info.

(402) 465-5600 • CompleteChildrensHealth.com

3262 Salt Creek Cir. • 8201 Northwoods Dr. • 4020 Hohensee Dr. • 1336 West A St.

ik of Lincoln is celebrating 21 years! rmus e d Kin

Ages 0-7 years Days • Evenings • Weekends

Music Now. Skills for Life.

Of Lincoln with Shawna Gordon

(402) 770-1486 • KindermusikOfLincoln.com

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LINCOLN PARKS SCAVENGER HUNT

You can climb the capstones from a training center that used to be nearby until it burned down long ago.

BY GRETCHEN M. GARRISON

Did you know there are 133 parks that include 89 playgrounds in Lincoln, Nebraska? While some of them may be smaller neighborhood areas, my guess is that there are many that you have not visited yet. While you will need to visit the Lincoln Parks and Rec website to find out about all of them, I am hoping to introduce you to some of them. In honor of 2021, here is a fun scavenger hunt to get you exploring. Answers provided at far right.

11 Taking summer sprinklers to a whole new level.

I represent a Plains animal. As a statue, I barely made it across the ocean, almost broke a bridge and was nearly hit by a train. Where am I?

Part of my location might be considered prehistoric.

Formerly rubbish. Now fireworks.

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If you look up at one of my sculptures, you will see directional Lincoln buildings represented in the four seasons.

During the warmer seasons, enjoy the sounds of my small waterfall.

Happy rocks? Maybe not. But it is near a trail.

Head north near town for the park named for the lake, not the nearby wetlands.

Look for mini bronze animals hidden all over my playground. Oh, and bring your checkers or chess pieces in case you want to play.

For decades, I have been taking people out to the ballgame.

Play horseshoes at this park named for a former Lincoln mayor.

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ANSWER KEY 21) Woods Park (33rd & O)

To skate or fling a Frisbee? You decide.

Grab a paddle— no dill required at these courts.

20) Fleming Fields (33rd & Huntington) 19) Sunrise Park (73rd & Douglas) 18) (Trago T.) McWilliams Park (25th & T) 17) Cooper Park (6th & D) 16) Tower Square (13th & P)

My equipment is (ADA) accessible for everyone.

13) Tierra Park (In between 27th & 37th, S. of Highway 2; N. of Old Cheney)

Circle round and round my tower because yes, I am considered a park.

14) Peterson (Erwin) Park (4400 Southwood)

15) Antelope Park (35th & A Area)

12) Roberts Park (56th & A) 11) Trago Park (22nd & U)

Dorothy isn’t in Kansas anymore – instead, her “Daydreams” are here.

Prior Pastor Protesting Prejudice Pocket Park

10) Oak Lake Park near 1st St. (Sun Valley Blvd. & Charleston St.) 9) Gladstone Park (45th & Gladstone) 8) Seng Park at University Place (44th & Garland) 7) Sherman Field (322 South St.)

These fields were once filled with flowers, not ballplayers (now a sports park).

A great place to watch the sky first thing in the morning.

5) Union Plaza Park (21st & Q)

Send us a picture from your hunt by tagging us on social media— @lincolnkidsmagazine on Facebook and Instagram!

Gretchen M. Garrison included several Lincoln parks in both her A History Lover’s Guide to Lincoln and 100 Things to Do in Lincoln Before You Die books. Actually, one is included in her Detour Nebraska: Historic Destinations and Natural Wonders book as well. She is grateful to Kat Scholl, the Lincoln Parks and Recreation Public Information Specialist, for her contributions to this article.

6) Stransky Park (1724 Harrison Ave.) 4) Arbor Lake (9763 N. 27th) 3) Sunken Gardens (27th & Capital Parkway) 2) Belmont Park (12th & Judson)

1) Buffalo Statue (Pioneers Park)

I’m the last park from A to Z. The whole family can work out near my playground.

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FIVE SIGNS OF SPRING J A M I E K E L L E Y, N AT U R A L I S T P I O N E E R S P A R K N AT U R E C E N T E R

At the Nature Center, we are always excited to see changes in the seasons. Whether hiking at the Nature Center, enjoying a neighborhood park, or hanging out in your own backyard here are five things you can watch or listen for this spring. Listen for frog calls. Frogs overwinter at the bottom of a pond or burrow underground. In the spring, after emerging from their hibernating state, frogs will begin to call as part of their courtship. The chorus frog is one of the first frogs we hear calling around the Nature Center ponds. Look for turkey vultures to arrive. Turkey vultures are fairly common in and around Lincoln. You can identify a turkey vulture while flying by its large wingspan and lazy, wobbly flight. They drift and glide as they ride air thermals in the sky. Turkey vultures spend the winter in southern parts of North America and also Central America. In the spring, we will see our resident turkey vultures return. Observe changes in birds and bird behavior. Springtime is migration time. The turkey vultures will be back but birds like the dark-eyed junco will leave. Spring is also a time when many birds stopover

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during their migration journey, like the Sandhill cranes in central Nebraska. Look for other changes. The male American goldfinch feathers change from drab olive-gray to a bright and bold yellow. You may also hear more woodpeckers drumming as part of their courtship behavior and the chatter of red-winged blackbirds that have returned to wetlands and nesting territories. Notice changes in trees. Watch for changing color on trees just as we do in the fall. In the spring, leaves burst from the buds on trees. The buds mostly appear in the fall and are dormant all winter. Sunlight helps trigger the leaves to emerge. Also, watch for flowers on trees. The eastern redbud is a favorite at the Nature Center with bright pink flowers covering the tree before any leaves emerge. The wild plums and black cherry blossoms are other sure signs of spring. Watch for the bumblebees to wake up. In the spring, the overwintering queen bees ‘wake up’ and begin to find food (pollen and nectar). The queen will also search for a nest site where she’ll lay eggs. Watch for the first bees to emerge and look for what flowers are available as a food source. Besides the flowering trees, some of the first flowering plants at the Nature Center are in the woodland. Fawn lily, Dutchman’s breeches, and Virginia bluebells are a few of the first flowers we see.

Villarreal Nebraska Academy Youth Soccer

Spring Registration is Open! Intro Classes Starts Mar 15-April-May15 Summer June-July Registration Opens April 6

Ages 3-4 & 5-7 Choose: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday

READY FOR A TEAM K, 1st, 2nd, 3rd Grade Teams Register for Spring Teams Now

VILLARREAL NEBRASKA ACADEMY 333 Speedway Circle, Suite 4 Call or email to join a team! admin@villarrealnebraska.com 402-853-7100

Info & Registration at villarrealnebraska.com Professionally directed soccer programs of Villarreal C.F.

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Moms who Choose Lincoln Family Medicine Center Choose

WELLNESS FOR A LIFETIME As a new mom or soon-to-be mom, there are so many choices to make for you and your baby. We want you to feel confident in the excellent care that you will receive at Lincoln Family Medicine Center (LFMC).

The Market for Expecting & New Moms We love to spoil our expecting mothers! The Market is a unique program exclusively for moms who choose Lincoln Family Medicine for their obstetric care. The Market offers moms a multitude of items that may be needed for babies at no cost to you, such as: •

Free diapers at scheduled prenatal visits, starting at 28 weeks, and throughout the baby’s first year of well-child visits at 1 month, 2 months, 4 months, 6 months, 9 months, and 12 months

•

Baby items, including swaddling blankets, clothing, bibs, thermometer, and handcrocheted items

1 You get the expertise of a faculty family medicine physician while also getting the benefits of working with a residency team.

•

Hygiene products

•

Free infant care classes

You will receive ongoing patient education about what to expect and how to be healthy throughout pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, postpartum, and the newborn period.

•

Samples of Infant formula

LFMC is a family practice clinic and a residency program focused on obstetrics, pediatrics, and full-scope family medicine. Here’s what our patients love about our clinic.

Two physicians are typically in the delivery room to deliver comprehensive care to both mom and baby.

All OB patients are automatically registered in the program at their first prenatal visit. Our Promise Feel confident that you and your baby will receive the highest level of care for a safe pregnancy, delivery, and all stages of life at Lincoln Family Medicine Center. To schedule an appointment, call us at 402.483.4571 or visit lincolnfamilymedicine.com.

Access to our community lactation educator and opportunities for one-on-one sessions for breastfeeding support that include helping mothers get a breast pump. 5

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After delivery, our family medicine physicians can take care of you and your newborn. This provides continuity of care throughout all stages of development for your child.

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Sabrina Cerny, MD, FAAFP Dr. Cerny is the Program Director at the Lincoln Family Medicine Residency Program. A mother of two, she is passionate about providing full-scope family medicine for you and your child.

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Office Hours Mon-Thu 8:00 am-7:00 pm Friday 8:00 am-4:30 pm Saturday 8:00 am-12:00 pm Kay Anderson, M.D., F.A.A.P. Philip Boucher, M.D., F.A.A.P. Jeffrey David, M.D., F.A.A.P. Jason Davis, M.D., F.A.A.P. Carrie Dell, M.D., F.A.A.P. Heather Dews, M.D., F.A.A.P. Kurstin Friesen, M.D., F.A.A.P. Kate Gogela, M.D., F.A.A.P. Joel Greisen, M.D., F.A.A.P. Amanda Knapp, M.D., F.A.A.P. Shelley Nelson, M.D., F.A.A.P. Valerie Vernon, PA-C Becky Waegli, PA-C Darci Eikmeier, NP Amanda Goddard, NP Mikala Geisert, NP Natasha Hedden, NP

Sunday 12:30 pm-4:30 pm

It’s time to schedule school & sports physicals! Call LPG today!

Lincoln Pediatric Group, LLC 4501 S. 70th, Suite 110, Lincoln

402-489-3834 • www.lincolnpedsgroup.com

Lincoln Kidding

Don’t miss the 4th annual Future Husker University on Friday, July 9, 2021!

for Your Child

Bring a future Husker for a fun day on the Nebraska campus this summer. Featuring tours, lunch in a dining hall, classroom activities led by the colleges and the chance to stay overnight in a residence hall on July 8. For kids age 7-13 with adults.

Call us today for an appointment

402-423-3322 3901 Pine Lake Road,

Registration opens March 2021.

Suite 250 Website: www.pediatricdentistrypc.net

...follow us on Facebook!

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Brent D. Johnson DDS, MS

Visit www.huskeralum.org/fhu for more details.

Q: What did the drummer name his twin daughters? A: Anna-1 & Anna-2

Save the Date!

Dental Care Designed

Jokes from Uncle Bob

I thought about going on an all almond diet, by that’s just nuts! Whenever I go to the store, the cashier always asks me if I want my milk in a bag— I always shake my head & say, “No— please leave it in the carton.”

KEEPING KIDS MOVING DURING COVID BY DR. KRISTEN PFEIL, C O N N E C T P E D I AT R I C T H E R A P Y

According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), children over the age of 5 need at least one hour per day of rigorous physical activity that gets their heart rate up.

66% A shocking statistic is that

—nearly 2 of 3 children ages 5 to 10 are getting less than an hour of exercise per day. On average, children use screens for over

7½ hours a day

These numbers make it clear: our children need to be more active! Regular physical activity is important for kids for physical development, but it’s also very important for mental and social development. Being active helps children: •

Build coordination and improve confidence with movement

•

Improve learning and attention span

•

Improve self regulation skills (can remain calm when frustrated)

•

Decrease anxiety and depression

•

Improve self-esteem

•

Build social skills such as teamwork, respect, and problem solving

•

Have fun!

Cold Weather and COVID As the weather is getting colder we are all spending more time indoors. COVID has also presented some challenges. Play opportunities are limited and social interaction is at a minimum. Youth sports are happening in adapted form, or sometimes not at all. This has left kids often playing alone or spending time on a device. Kids are socially isolated and engaging in limited physical activity. This doesn’t have to be the case! With a little flexibility and intentionality parents can continue to ensure their children are staying active and engaged. Staying Active in Lincoln While there are some limitations due to COVID and the cold weather of Nebraska, there are lots of ways families can stay active. •

Hike or go sledding at Pioneers Park

•

Walk through all four floors of Morrill Hall

•

Bike/walk around Holmes Lake— that’s 2 ½ miles! They also have some great hills for sledding

•

Do the Wildlife Walk at the Lincoln Zoo

•

Family bike or hike on Billy Wolff, MoPac or Rock Island Trails

•

Have family relay races in the snow in your backyard. This gets your heart rate up and is guaranteed to bring lots of laughs.

Dr. Kristen Pfeil is a pediatric occupational therapist in Lincoln, NE. Her clinic, Connect Pediatric Therapy, provides services to kids and families in the clinic, their home or the community. Find out more at connectpediatrictherapy.com For more ideas on keeping kids moving check us out on Facebook @connectpediatrictherapy.

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OMNI Inventive Care

Parent-Child Interaction Therapy 1. What is Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT)? PCIT is an evidence-based treatment designed for children ages 2 to 7 years old. The treatment is delivered by a therapist across two phases. The first phase targets skills to enhance the child’s sense of attachment with the caregiver, while the second teaches the caregiver to calmly and confidently manage the child behaviors. 2. How do I know if PCIT is right for my child? We will provide an initial assessment to ensure that this is the right treatment for your child. 3. What is a PCIT session like? The therapist will coach the caregiver from the observation room with the use of a one-way mirror and “bug-in-the-ear” device. The therapist will provide the caregiver with in-the-moment skills to effectively manage the child’s behaviors. 4. Can I self-refer? Caregivers/parents can absolutely self-refer. We encourage you to call or email to speak directly to the PCIT therapists about what we can do for you and your child. We can assist with submitting your sessions to insurance, or parents/caregivers may self-pay. 5. Where is your office located? PCIT is offered at both our Lincoln and Omaha OMNI Inventive Care locations: 2300 South 13th Lincoln, NE 68502 5115 F Street Omaha, NE 68117 We are also currently able to provide PCIT through telehealth if that is best for your family. Kate Sorrell, LICSW Director of Intensive In-Home Services Office: 402-397-9866 X1039 Cell: 402-210-9538 Email: Kate.Sorrell@omniic.com

NEW LOCATION! 56th & Old Cheney

Children | Teens | Adults

evelopment D & F R E E Growth for ages 7-10

gram Pro

Nebraska Orthodontics offers FREE yearly orthodontic exams for kids ages 7-10. We catch small problems before they become BIG problems. If intervention is recommended, we offer affordable treatment plans with low monthly payments and 0% financing.

Nebraska Orthodontics Dr. Bronsen Schliep

3100 O St | 402-475-6666

NebraskaOrthOdONtics.cOm lincolnkidsinc.com | 33

Kindergarten Enrollment Enroll in Academic Excellence

Become a part of the CVA family from the very start. for others-centered, academic excellence. Give your child a love for education and service with: Small class sizes Curriculum for academic readiness A play-based approach We have payment options and financial assistance. Get a unique education, only at College View Academy with over 125 years of experience and tradition. *We are open to people from all religious backgrounds.

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5240 Calvert St. Lincoln, NE 68506 (402) 483-1181 â&#x20AC;˘ www.cvak12.org

HOW MUCH DO YOU LOVE YOUR LIBRARY?

Write us a letter to tell us why you love the library or why you love reading. You can tell us about your favorite book, or something you learned from a book! Or send in a drawing, photo, or craft that shows why you love the library.

This spring, we invite our customers ages 4+ to join us as we celebrate Love My Library.

Send your letter to: Library Mouse, Lincoln City Libraries, 136 S. 14th Street, or email a.huffman@lincolnlibraries.org.

Love can be celebrated and expressed in many ways: • Check out a cookbook and learn to make a special dish for your mom or dad. • Try a new craft to create a work of art to give to someone. • Check out a Grab and Go bundle and read something new with a friend.

Winners will be selected at random to win their very own library mouse. Parts of letters, pictures, and works of art might appear on the LNKLibraries social media pages! This promotion runs from February 14 April 10, 2021. For more information about any of our services visit lincolnlibraries.org or our Facebook page.

Sunday, February 14, 2021 through Saturday, April 10, 2021, tell us how you love your library and win your own library mouse! See our article for more information. www.lincolnlibraries.org lincolnkidsinc.com | 35

Growing Strong, Healthy Families! High Quality Early Childhood Education • Income Eligible / Title XX Accepted • Full Day, Year-Round • Ages Birth to 5 • Low Staff to Child Ratios

(402) 458-3171 | 3435 N. 14th Street, Lincoln, NE 68521

SUMMER PROGRAM 2021 Post-K through 5th Grade

To stay informed follow @lutheranschoolsoflincoln or visit https://bit.ly/lsl-summer-program

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CARDBOaRD, PLASTIC FILM, AND PACKAGING, OH MY!

create space in your curbside bin or at a Recyclables Collection Site. •

B Y W I L L A D I C O S TA N Z O , WA S T E D I V E R S I O N C O O R D I N AT O R , C I T Y O F L I N C O L N

Our way of life and consumption habits have been altered by the pandemic. Packages are received at our door, from drive-throughs, restaurants, and local stores. Each package means more waste that needs to be managed correctly. This article shares helpful guidance on how to reduce, reuse, and recycle the packaging you receive. Corrugated Cardboard Box It’s important to remember that in Lincoln and Lancaster County, corrugated cardboard is not garbage; it must be recycled. In fact, corrugated cardboard is banned from the Bluff Road Landfill that receives the waste from Lincoln and Lancaster County residents. Corrugated cardboard is defined as three or more layers of paper with a rippled or corrugated middle. First, think of ways you can reuse your corrugated cardboard box. Can you wrap it in a pretty fabric and use it for organizing the closet, place a gift inside it, use it to donate items to a local thrift store, or can it be used to create art? If you cannot find a way to reuse, follow these easy steps to recycle:

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•

Remove all materials from the corrugated cardboard box so it’s completely empty.

•

Flatten the corrugated cardboard box. Jumping, smashing or laying on the cardboard is fun, but will not flatten it. Use scissors or keys to cut the tape on the sides. Flattening the box helps

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Recycle! Every garbage collector offers convenient curbside recycling in our community. Call your garbage collector to find out more about curbside recycling today. If you are taking your corrugated cardboard to a Recyclables Collection Site, be sure to fill the bin from back to front. This makes it easier to identify which bins are full and helps to fit more cardboard into the container.

Packaging Bubble wrap, styrofoam, plastic film, and packing peanuts may have fallen out of the box you flattened. Here is what to with them: •

Foam items. Styrofoam and items made from foam, such as packing peanuts or take-out containers, are not recyclable. Put them in the trash.

•

Plastic film, plastic grocery bags, bubble wrap, and packing pillows can be recycled BUT not in your curbside recycling bin or the Recyclables Collection Site bins.

•

Stretchy plastic in the curbside or Collection Site bins hurts the recycling process. They get tangled in the sorting machinery at recycling processing centers. Processors must stop the sorting machines so workers can cut the plastic film out of the machine. This is dangerous and it takes more time which means more money to recycle your materials.

•

Take plastic film including bubble wrap, packing pillows, and grocery bags to a participating grocery or retail store.

Now that you’ve read about how to properly dispose of packing materials, be sure to share this information with others who might not know how to dispose of their packing materials. Save this article as a reference, and recycle it when you no longer need it!

“Can I Recycle This?” A Refresher for the Average Consumer

Sure! Go ahead!

Plastic Bottles & Jugs

Aluminum, Steel, & Tin Cans

Not a chance, partner!

Plastic Film Bags & Packaging

Styrofoam

Clean & Dry Paper

Cardboard Dry & Flattened

Glass Bottles & Jars

Food Waste

Non-Recyclable Plastics

Textiles & Apparel

For more information about what is and isn’t recyclable, call the Waste Diversion Hotline at (402) 441-8215 or visit recycle.lincoln.ne.gov.

Cursive

Yes or no?

B Y G W E L D A C A R L S O N , N E B R A S K A D Y S L E X I A A S S O C I AT I O N

When our son was young, we received daily notes from his teacher written in cursive. He was determined to know what was said about his day. His developmental disability didn’t stop him from learning to read cursive – and then he wanted to learn to write in cursive. And, he did! The controversy remains as to whether children should be taught cursive. Penmanship is not valued in our society as it once was. With the shift towards more technology in the classroom, some argue that cursive is no longer relevant. It isn’t included in the Common Core Standards. Only skills that are measurable are included regardless of the basic foundation skills needed for handwriting. It’s argued that the time to teach cursive takes away from subject content instruction. But, the benefits of cursive are many. Cursive handwriting improves brain development in the areas of thinking, language, and memory through the stimulation of both sides of the brain. Fine and gross motor skills and eye-hand coordination are developed as the movements in writing cursive are learned. Thus, cursive is usually taught around the age of seven or eight. Children with dyslexia, dysgraphia, and attention difficulties who struggle with manuscript letter formations often benefit from cursive. If we look at lower case letter formations, only f, r, s, and z in cursive are formed very differently from manuscript. Reversals of lower case letters can be eliminated through cursive including these common letters: c, b, d, g, j, p, q, m,

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and w. The directionality of word writing from left to right and connecting common letter/sound combinations such as ‘dge’ or ‘tch’ in cursive solidify the spelling of words. Letter-size, shape, and word spacing improve since letters flow in a continuous, connected manner in words. Each letter begins at the baseline. Try writing the word ‘was’ in the air in manuscript and then in cursive. Feel the movement flow? The ability to write in cursive is faster than the stop and start manuscript strokes. The creativity in the formation and rhythm of cursive produces attractive, legible handwriting and builds self-esteem and a sense of personal satisfaction. Nevertheless, it takes practice as does any other developing skill. Reading cursive is equally important. “When individuals cannot read cursive, they are cursively illiterate in their own language.” (Iris Hatfield). Historical and important documents are often written in cursive. Letters and cards from family and friends may be written in cursive. Parents, take time to encourage and teach your child cursive. Start by writing simple notes in cursive. If purchasing cursive writing practice books, be sure to check for righthanded vs. left-handed. Remember, once our children learn cursive, no one can take that away from them. Cursive is not a lost art. For information on helping the struggling reader, writer, speller, contact the Nebraska Dyslexia Association: www.nebraskadyslexia.org

ABC GIvE IT A TRY!

This summer, I can’t wait to...

My favorite treat is...

I’m most proud of myself when I...

lincolnkidsinc.com | 41

Masked. Masked.

Disinfected.

Distanced. Re/Cover LNK is a collaborative initiative from many entities. Local businesses, community leaders, the Economic Recovery Task Force, and the Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department are leading the way to bring unity and resources to our community. There are two ways to get involved: • Register your business or organization as a Re/Cover LNK partner. • Commit to visit Re/Cover LNK businesses that have pledged to stay safe and keep the economy healthy. Let’s #recoverLNK together. Learn more at recoverlnk.com.

CHILD CARE, EDUCATION & WELLNESS Name

Programs

Descriptions

Contact

Calvert Recreation Center Preschool

Preschool

Our preschool program consists of fun early childhood activities to help support the learning and development of children ages 3-5. 2-, 3-, and 5-day/week sessions available.

Calvert Rec Center, 4500 Stockwell 402-441-8480 parks.lincoln.ne.gov/calvert

Dimensions Education at 7700 A St.

6w-6y Preschool

Quality early education program for children 6 weeks–preschool. Summer programs for children ages 6 weeks–1st grade. Visit DimensionsEd.org for information & online forms. Call for availability.

7700 A Street 402-476-8304 www.DimensionsEd.org

Dimensions Education at First Lutheran

6w-6y Preschool

Quality early education program for children 6 weeks–preschool. Summer programs for children ages 6 weeks–1st grade. Visit DimensionsEd.org for information & online forms. Call for availability.

1551 S. 70th St 402-476-8304 www.DimensionsEd.org

Dimensions Education at First-Plymouth

6w-6y Preschool

Quality early education program for children 6 weeks–preschool. Summer programs for children ages 6 weeks–1st grade. Visit DimensionsEd.org for information & online forms. Call for availability.

In First-Plymouth Church, 20th & D 402-476-8304 www.DimensionsEd.org

Dual Language Preschool

Preschool

Our thematic content supports language development in English & Spanish and allows preschoolers of all language backgrounds to have fun while playing & learning kindergarten readiness skills. Openings currently available! M/W/F, 9-11:30am.

Irving Rec Center, 2010 Van Dorn 402-441-7954 parks.lincoln.ne.gov/irving

Fingerprints Child Development Center

6w-10y Preschool

Featuring an educational curriculum for all ages in a loving Christian environment! Open 6:30am-6:00pm. 6 weeks–10 years. Enrolling now for part-time PreK morning program. M–F from 9am–11:30am. Contact for current openings.

7800 Holdrege 402-467-4503 CapitolCity.org

Float 4 Life

Infant, Toddler & Children’s Float Lessons

The Float 4 Life Center combines physical and educational components of water safety through 1-on-1 kind and gentle float lessons, water safety milestones, and Josh the Otter water safety education. The center also serves as the National Training Facility for instructors who want to learn water safety and floating techniques.

8445 Executive Woods Drive 402-613-5555 www.float4life.org

KidsPark

1½-11y, Preschool PM & Weekends

Child care when you need it—days, evenings, and weekends! No reservations & pay by the hour! Flexible preschool programs, day camps, after school programs and more! Happy kids, happy parents!

5633 S. 16th St. Ste. 100 402-413-8849 KidsPark.com/Lincoln

Lutheran Schools of Lincoln

K - 12

At Lutheran Schools of Lincoln, we offer a K-12 experience grounded in faith formation. What sets us apart is the size, experience, approach, and level of attention each child receives.

lutheranschoolsoflincoln.org 402-467-5404 lutheranschoolsoflincoln@gmail.com

Pioneers Park Nature Center Preschool

Preschool

Animals + Plants + Hikes = Learning through discovery & creating a lifelong connection to nature! Preschool and Pre-K classes. lincoln.ne.gov/city/parks/naturecenter/preschool.htm

West end of Pioneers Park 402-441-7895 parks.lincoln.ne.gov/naturecenter

Prairie Hill Learning Center Montessori School

18m+, Preschool Private K-8

Ages 18 mo-8th grade. Open 7am-6pm. Montessori Education in a farm setting with a family atmosphere. Certified Montessori Teachers.

7 miles South of Lincoln on Hwy 77 402-438-6668 PrairieHill.com

Rooted in Wellness Chiropractic

0-18y

We are passionate and highly specialized in prenatal and pediatric chiropratic. Our goals are to empower and educate families about health and to be a guide through the challenges in life. Dr. Molly is also certified in Webster technique, which is used to help women during pregnancy.

7001 A St, Ste. 100 402-488-6100 rootedinwellnesschiro.com

The Children’s Place Child Care Center

18m-12y Preschool

An educational program enrolled in Step Up to Quality for ages 18m-12y. Experienced teachers. Curriculum-based with weekly themes & activities. Available transportation to neighborhood schools. Title XX welcome. Child care & adult food program. Mon–Fri, 6:30am6pm.

3900 Vine St 402-466-6341 www.ChildrensPlaceChildCare.com

The Child’s View Montessori

18m-6y Preschool

Open 7:30am to 5:30pm. Ages 18 months to 6 years. Part-time or full-time. Certified Montessori Teachers.

3341 Pioneers Blvd. 402-484-8277 www.thechildsviewmontessori.com

Trinity Lutheran School

18m+, Preschool Private K-5

A fulfilling Christ-based education center. Our Early Childhood Education Program accepts children ages 18 months through Pre-K with extended hours from 7am-5:45pm. Also offering K-5 classes.

1200 North 56th Street 402-466-1800 www.trinityoflincoln.org

True Knowledge Preschool

Preschool

A fun & exciting academic approach that will prepare your child for kindergarten & beyond. Small classroom sizes. Engaging teacher. Welcoming environment! 2, 3, & 5-day options. Contact us to learn more!

5445 Red Rock Lane 402-570-1252 www.trueknowledgelincoln.com

World of Knowledge CDC & Preschool

6w-12y Preschool

A Step Up to Quality program for ages 6 weeks–12 years. Preschool curriculum beginning at age one. Before/after school care. Sign language, soccer, dance, & taekwondo lessons available.

8310 Wendell Way 402-483-4769 WorldOfKnowledgeNE.com

YMCA Lincoln

Preschool Before/After

Licensed preschool for ages 3-5 that includes swim lessons & gym classes as part of its developmental curriculum. Before & after school programs for elementary & middle school students at several Community Learning Center sites in schools across Lincoln.

At 4 YMCA locations plus partner CLC schools throughout Lincoln ymcalincoln.org

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Birthday PARTy fUN Name

FUN FEATURES

Contact

Boy Scouts

Enjoy a Birthday Adventure! Book your party at the Indoor Climbing Wall with the Cornhusker Council, Boy Scouts of America. Instructors and Equipment provided.

To book your party, contact Jason Anderson at Jason.Anderson@Scouting.org

KidsPark

Private birthday parties available! Invitations, balloon favors, a gift for the birthday child, face painting, art, and games are all included. We do the cleanup when the party is over! Sundays 10:30am-12:30pm or 6:30pm-8:30pm. Book your date online at kidspark.com/lincoln today!

5633 S. 16th Street 402-413-8849 www.KidsPark.com/lincoln

Lincoln Children’s Museum

Lincoln Children’s Museum sets the perfect stage for a fun and memorable birthday party for your child. The Museum offers a party room for birthday festivities, hours of play in its interactive exhibits & your choice of eight fun themes. Parties start at $89. Visit LincolnChildrensMuseum.org to pick the perfect party for you.

1420 P Street 402-477-4000 www.LincolnChildrensMuseum.org

Lincoln Children’s Zoo

Celebrate your child’s birthday at the Zoo and enjoy all-day zoo admission for you and your guests. Create lasting memories with options for unlimited train rides and critter encounters. Party packages start at just $225, visit LincolnZoo.org to pick your party, select your date and reserve your room and time.

1222 S. 27th Street 402-475-6741 www.LincolnZoo.org

Lincoln Laser Tag

Fun for all ages! Four amazing party party packages to choose from to meet your needs & budget. You'll get 2+ sessions of laser tag with options like pizza, Dippin' Dots, & a private glow room. The birthday guest of honor & guests are sure to have a blast playing Laser Tag! Pay for only the guests that show up, saving you $$!

6600 N 27th Street 402-476-4824 www.lincolnlasertag.com

Lost In Fun!

Your outdoor playland...indoors! Fun for all ages! Private party rooms, playsets, foam pit, inflatable jumpers, fun maze, laser maze, video games, jumping pillow, Ballocity, and snack area with yummy food & drinks! We do company parties, too! Book your next Fun-tastic party online at lostinfun.com!

8431 Cody Dr. (15th & Yankee Hill) 402-466-8692 www.LostInFun.com

LUX Center for the Arts

Real art taught by real artists! Guests can each build and paint their own clay mugs, bowls, or plates. Other popular projects include canvas painting, fused glass suncatchers, and custom projects. 2 hour parties for up to 6 participants are just $120! Pottery wheel parties are available for kids ages 10+.

2601 N. 48th St. 402-466-8692 www.LUXcenter.org/PARTY

Madsen’s Bowling

Host a Bowling Party! Kids love our bumper bowling. Includes a “personalized” bowling pin gift for the birthday child! Special ramps for the young bowlers. Ask about Jr. Pool Leagues!

47th & Dudley 402-467-3249 2 blocks south of 48th & Holdrege

Morrill Hall

Be a paleontologist, discover some of the most bizarre creatures to inhabit Earth, or go on a treasure hunt exploring the museum’s rocks & minerals! Guided museum activities including a hands-on fossil dig in the Marx Discovery Center & gifts for every child! Six party themes to choose from. Private party room!

Morrill Hall on the UNL Campus 402-472-2637 museum.unl.edu/birthdays

My Gym

Your Child is the Star! Supervised age-appropriate games, fun activities, rides, songs, puppets and more! Your birthday party can enjoy exclusive use of our facility! MyGym.com/Lincoln

2755 Jamie Lane, Suite 4 (27th & Yankee Hill) 402-802-9982 www.MyGym.com/Lincoln

Pioneers Park Nature Center

Owls, snakes, bugs, and the great outdoors are eager to make your child’s birthday a special one! Starting at $125, parties include a guided hike or activity, party favors, & special gift for the birthday child.

West end of Pioneers Park 402-441-7895 parks.lincoln.ne.gov/naturecenter

Swimtastic Swim School

Swimtastic Swim School takes the stress out of party planning & replaces it with 2 hours of fun for the whole family! Become a mermaid or a pirate for a day with our themed parties or enjoy a get-together in the warm water pool! Parties include private use of the indoor pool, tie-dye t-shirt for the birthday child, invitations, paper products, balloons, family swim passes for each attendee, setup and teardown! Call or click to register!

7911 Pioneers Blvd. 402-489-7946 www.Swimtastic.com

Think, Make, Create! Mobile Learning Labs

Party activities that allow your child & their friends to QUESTION like a Scientist, DESIGN like a technologist, BUILD like an engineer, CREATE like an artist, DEDUCE like a mathematician, and PLAY LIKE A KID! Rent a Think, Make, Create Mobile Learning Lab—a trailer full of STEAM activities to engage your K-8th grade group. $250 includes delivery and pick-up. Canopy and folding tables included!

Contact Chris McCurdy at 402-904-5191 www.bitly.com/tmc-labs

Tie Dye Studio

DIY Tie Dye for your next birthday. Come do it yourself, and create your own tie dye t-shirt, using professional tools and instruction; starting at $25 per person. Join us for that one-of-a-kind experience! We also offer Totally Do it Yourself Take-Home Tie Dye Kits, starting at $30.

CONTACT: 402-580-3250 mytiedyestudio@gmail.com mytiedyestudio.wixsite.com/website-1

YMCA: Cooper, Fallbrook, & Copple Family

Have your next birthday party at the Y! The YMCA offers a variety of birthday party options to fit any child. Join us to swim or have one of our themed birthday parties. Parties start at $75. Call for more information, or visit www.YMCALincoln.org

Cooper: 6767 S. 14th St. 402-323-6400 Fallbrook: 700 Penrose Dr. 402-323-6444 Copple Family: 8700 Yankee Woods 402-327-0037

With DHMs changing often, so are most party options, capacities, and availability. Some places have paused taking party reservations. These listings are mostly pre-pandemic options, and it is all of our hope that normal operations will resume sooner than later, but only once it’s safe. If interested in any of these fun party ideas, please contact the business for current information. From all the small businesses in town, your understanding & patience is appreciated!

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LESSONS & ACTIVITIES Name

Programs

Descriptions

Contact

Aimee’s Premier Dance

Dance

Aimee’s Premier Dance in Hickman offers a variety of dance styles for ages 3+, including Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Lyrical, Contemporary, Hip Hop, Pointe, and Boys’ Classes. All classes use age-appropriate music, choreography, and costuming.

6760 Woodland Blvd. (Hickman) 402-440-8770 www.apremierdance.com

Blue Raven Music Studios

Guitar, Strings, Voice & more!

Guitar, Drums, Bass, Piano, Dobro, Lap Steel, Mandolin, Banjo, Violin, Viola, Ukulele, Group Bands, & Voice instruction for all ages. Fun, positive learning environment. Reduced rate guitar & ukulele classes for kids ages 5-9.

3835 S. 48th St. (by Union College) 402-486-0599 BlueRavenMusic.com

Boy Scouts

Indoor Adventure and Activities

Looking for Adventure and a fun Indoor Activity? Check out the Climbing Wall at the Cornhusker Council, Boy Scouts of America. Instructors and Climbing Equipment provided.

Contact Jason Anderson at Jason.Anderson@Scouting.org

Float 4 Life

Infant, Toddler & Children’s Float Lessons

8445 Executive Woods Drive 402-613-5555 www.float4life.org

Lincoln Children’s Museum

Fun Learning Activities

The Museum is OPEN! Buy memberships and reserve tickets online. Stop by to create, discover, learn, and PLAY! We can’t wait to see you. Follow us on Facebook for updates and special promotions.

1420 P Street, Lincoln, NE 402-477-4000 LincolnChildrensMuseum.org

LUX Center for the Arts

Hands-on Art

Private lessons, small group classes, family workshops, and spring/summer camps for ages 5+. All lessons are taught by professional teaching artists. Popular topics include clay, pottery wheel, painting, drawing, STEAM, metals, glass, and more! We are limiting classes to 6 students so we can physically distance and masks are required by students and staff at all times.

2601 N. 48th St. 402-466-8692 www.luxcenter.org/programs

Makit Takit Lincoln’s Craft Studio

Hands-on Art

Hands-on fun—several arts & crafts to choose from, craft in-store, or check out our many take-home options! You won’t want to miss out on our SPLATTER ROOM! Reserve your space online.

4570 Normal Blvd. #3 402-483-4232 • www.MakitTakit.com Christy@MakitTakit.com

Motions Dance Academy

Dance

Ballet, Pointe, Jazz, Tap, Lyrical, Hip-Hop and 2-Gether. Classes for two-year olds through high school. Welcoming & inviting space with ample viewing room so families can watch their dancers shine! We also offer customized dance-themed birthday parties.

8335 Cody Dr., Ste. A 402-420-0579 www.motionsdance.net

My Gym

Gymnastics & Sports Skills

Your child will have fun while building confidence & self-esteem in our beginning gymnastics & sports skills classes. Games, relays, dances & rides. Age-appropriate classes. MyGym.com/Lincoln.

2755 Jamie Ln, Ste 4 (27th & Yankee Hill) 402-802-9982 MyGym.com/Lincoln

Swimtastic Swim School

Swimming Lessons

Experience the Swimtastic difference! Small class sizes with individualized attention, warm 90° water, professional and passionate instructors, family-first convenience, exceptional curriculum, and unparalleled customer service!

7911 Pioneers Blvd 402-489-7946 Swimtastic.com

YMCA of Lincoln

Swim, Dance, Gymnastics, Youth Gym & More!

With a focus on developing the potential of kids, the YMCA offers youth programs in a small group setting. Instructors work side-by-side with each child to teach safety and to develop their skills while keeping them moving, healthy, and active.

Cooper, Copple Family, Fallbrook, & Northeast YMCAs ymcalincoln.org/youthprograms

Lincoln Non-Emergency 402-441-6000 Poison Control 800-222-1222

SUPPORT & RESOURCES

Suicide Hotline 800-273-8255 Boystown Hotline 800-448-3000 For children considering running away, or feeling abused, confused; help for parents. Abuse / Neglect Hotline 800-652-1999 Report Suspected Abuse Of Children/Adults.

Nebraska Family Helpline 402-345-7273 Immediate Safety Needs. PPD Moms Hotline 800-773-6667 Directory of Additional Hotlines nrrs.ne.gov Parks & Recreation Adaptive and Special Needs Programs parks.lincoln.ne.gov Programs & events for children and adults ages 6mo to adult.

Answers4Families Special Needs 800-746-8420 Answers4Families.org Resources, groups, & support. Autism Family Network 402-421-0874 AutismFamilyNetwork.org American Cancer Society (NE) Local: 402-423-4888 Cancer.org CapitalMOM by Bryan Health Online Parenting Community CapitalMomNebraska.org

Alcoholics/Narcotics Anonymous AA/NA For meetings & support: www.lincaa.org

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Little ONes’ ACTIVITIES Name

Descriptions

Contact

Float 4 Life

Infant, Toddler & Children’s Float Lessons "The Float 4 Life Center combines physical and educational components of water safety through 1-on-1 kind and gentle float lessons, water safety milestones, and Josh the Otter water safety education. The center also serves as the National Training Facility for instructors who want to learn water safety and floating techniques.

8445 Executive Woods Drive 402-613-5555 www.float4life.org

Library Learning Times Lincoln City Libraries

Storytimes To Go are for daycare providers or parents that want to create a simple storytime for their children. We currently have ten storytime themes to choose from and will put five books that match the theme into a book bag for you to pick up at the library. Virtual Storytimes will provide virtual Toddler Storytimes at 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays and Preschool Storytimes at 7:00 p.m. Wednesdays via our Facebook page!

For schedule: LincolnLibraries.org > Kids & Teens > Kids > Library Learning Times

My Gym

Baby & toddler exercises, songs, dances, infant & child-safe rides, unique swings, and many other parent + me adventures in age-appropriate classes starting at 6 months. We also have independent classes for kids ages 3¼ through 10 years!

2755 Jamie Lane, Suite 4 (27th & Yankee Hill) 402-802-9982 MyGym.com/Lincoln

Pioneers Park Nature Center

Bring the family to explore the outdoors! Dig in the sandbox in the Natural Play Area, smell flowers in the Children’s Garden, and visit our live animal exhibits. The Nature Center is open Mon-Sat, 8:30am-5pm, and Sun noon-5pm. Admission is FREE!

3201 S. Coddington (West end of Park) 402-441-7895 parks.lincoln.ne.gov/naturecenter

Pop-In Storytime Morrill Hall

CURRENTLY OFFERING A SERIES OF VIRTUAL EVENTS, including virtual field trips, Investigate Saturdays, camps and more. Find all the info on the website or facebook page. Pre-pandemic: Pop-in to the museum for storytime w/Lincoln City Libraries on the 1st Thu of each month at 4pm for stories, songs, and activities as we learn more about the natural world! Museum admission.

Morrill Hall on the UNL Campus 402-472-2637 museum.unl.edu/storytime

Super Sprouts Lincoln Children’s Museum

LCM IS OPEN WITH RESERVABLE TICKETS! Weekly drop-in programs included with admission, including Super Sprouts, are on pause for the summer. Please follow on social for updates. Pre-pandemic: Super Sprouts is hands-on activity time specially designed for toddlers, preschoolers & their caring adults. Every Tuesday at 10 a.m., program changes weekly. Regular museum admission.

1420 P Street 402-477-4000 LincolnChildrensMuseum.org

Swimtastic Swim School

Get your little ones safe and comfortable around the water right away! Join us for a free Infant/ Toddler clinic or sign up for our once a week lessons. Start them out right in small groups with individual attention! With a warm and safe environment, we will be sure your kids love the water!

7911 Pioneers Blvd 402-489-7946 Swimtastic.com

YMCA of Lincoln

The YMCA offers parent-with-child water discovery classes, as well as swim lessons that are designed to teach children, ages one to three years old, potentially life-saving techniques to keep them safe in and around water.

Cooper, Copple Family, Fallbrook, & Northeast YMCAs ymcalincoln.org/aquatics

Down Syndrome Advocates in Action NE 402-413-0199 www.dsaane.org IEP Support, mentoring, & events for families with members with Down Syndrome. FoodNet FoodNetLincoln.org Food assistance & donations. No proof of income required. Mostly perishable foods. Two or more distribution sites daily. Good Neighbor Community Center Basic & Emergent Services 402-477-4173 GNCCLincoln.org Assistance for low-income, nonduplicated individuals: food, clothing, education, & more. Heartland Home Schoolers • Resources Homeschool-life.com/ne/heartland lincolnhsr@gmail.com Support & activities for home school families.

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La Leche League of Lincoln www.LLLofne.org Mother-to-Mother breastfeeding support & education. Lincoln Area Families with Multiples LincolnMultiples.org Friendship & support for families with multiples. MilkWorks • Breastfeeding 402-423-6402 Milkworks.org Consultations, supplies, support groups, & more! Lincoln MOMs (Mothers on a Mission) FB: /lincolnmothersonamission lincolnmomsgroup@gmail.com Support & social group for Catholic mothers. MOMS Club of Lincoln (Mothers Offering Moms Support) • SAHM Support MomsClubLincoln.weebly.com Regular meet-up plus additional events each month, from play groups to mom’s night out!

Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS Preschool Parenting Support www.MOPS.org NebraskaMOPS@gmail.com Several local groups meet on various weekday mornings and evenings. Child care provided. Mourning Hope Grief Support 402-488-8989 mourninghope.org FREE Grief support groups, events, education, and resources for youths, teens, and families. Nebraska Foster & Adoptive Parent Assoc. 402-476-2273 www.NFAPA.org No Footprint Too Small 402-480-6782 www.nofootprinttoosmall.com info@nofootprinttoosmall.com Support to mothers, fathers, & families affected by pregnancy or infant loss.

Parenting Across Color Lines (PACL) Racial Identity Support 402-476-2273 jessica@nfapa.org Free monthly support group to help children develop healthy racial identities. Parents of Addicted Loved Ones (PAL) 402-560-3486 palgroup.org Hope and support through addiction education for parents dealing with an addicted loved one. Parents of Gender Fluid Kids parentsofgfkids@gmail.com Monthly meet-up for primary caregivers of gender fluid & gender creative children. Safe Talk Support Group Communication Challenges Support facebook.com/groups/safetalk toni@comworkslincoln.com For families with children who have communication challenges. Join our FB group.

Buy a brick. Honor an educator.

Amy Feldman McCook Middle

Eric Border Fillmore Elementary

Martha Wallace GICC

Katie Johnson Exeter High

Nick Gordon Gothenburg High

Sr. Mary Agnes St. Andrew Middle

Principal Jenkins Lincoln High

Coach Harris Millard South

Mr. Campbell Norfolk Elementary

Maggie Holloway Lincoln Lutheran

SeĂąora Perez Malcolm Elementary

Millie Akers Omaha Westside

Doug Hartman Bellevue East

Penny Truman Vincent Intermediate

John McDermott Kearney High

Amaya Mackintosh Little Minds Preschool

Caroline Young Coddington High

Mr. Petherbridge Scottsbluff High

Coach Harris Millard South

Barbara Morris Holbrook Elementary

Shirley Larson Randolph Elementary

Deadline extended. Order by March 1, 2021 at LincolnParks.org/cascade-honor-roll

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