Lincoln Kids Magazine Spring 2024 by Lincoln Kids Magazine

Spring 2024

Year 31, Issue 121

75 years of hope & healing

HopeSpoke makes a milestone page 12

spring into summer camps page 20

reading rules! See what’s happening at Lincoln City Libraries page 6

COVER SPONSOR

I Spy Spring!

Fall Enrollment Now Open Toddlers, infants, and expecting parents Head Start offers families FREE full-day, year-round learning! In-home or center-based options available

Families receiving SNAP benefits are eligible for Head Start!

Call (402) 875-9328 or scan to get started!

2301 O Street | 2615 O Street | 1821 K Street

THE LK TEAM

what’s inside? 6

Reading Rules!

Lincoln Moms of Lincoln Kids

Give Your Garden the Good Stuff

75 Years of Hope & Healing

Eyes on the Sky

Summer Camps

Make It a Tasty Week

Save Money This Spring

Shamrockin’ Craft

Teacher Feature: Kathy Hansen

On the Bookshelf: Book Reviews from Lincoln Kids

Lincoln Kids Directory

letter from the editor Dear Lincoln Kids Readers, As I’m writing this letter, and we are putting the final editing touches on the magazine, it feels like -8 degrees outdoors and we are on snow day #4 after the longest holiday break ever. Snow days are great reminders of how important schools are for our children (and parents)! Let’s all remember to send teachers some extra love for their consistent support of our kids. In this edition, we’re featuring Mrs. Hansen, a teacher at Arnold Elementary. Learn more about her on page 33. I’m looking forward to spring, being able to spend more time outside, the start of BMX season, planning our summer camp schedule, and (gasp) registering my almost five-year-old for kindergarten. Time really does fly by! I hope you know we are always cheering you on through the good and the difficult times. Being a parent is not always easy but we love our kiddos more than we could have ever imagined. If you’re in need of a little extra support, learn more about what HopeSpoke offers Lincoln families on page 12. We’re always looking for stories and Lincoln kids and families to feature. If you have an idea, send an email with the deets: hello@lnkkids.com!

Special thanks to our LK Cover Kid, Niya!

See you out there —

Mackenzie Slivka, Editor-in-Chief

Reading Rules! W R I T T E N BY T R AC I G L A S S A S S I S TA N T D I R E C T O R , L I N C O L N C I T Y L I B R A R I E S

At Lincoln City Libraries (LCL), we are proud to offer a wealth of opportunities, experiences, and materials for everyone in the City of Lincoln and Lancaster County. We have everything from books, to crafting programs, to Dungeons and Dragons tournaments and tech help. Your local public library serves a wide range of tastes and interests in a never-ending effort to fully represent and reach all members of the community.

As a former youth and teen librarian, Youth Services offered at public libraries have always held a special place in my heart. Public libraries provide kids and teens the place to develop and discover new interests and favorite things, and meet other people their age from all corners of the city and county. They also provide safe, welcoming spaces where kids and teens can be themselves.

Across the country, public libraries are serving patrons of all ages, to ensure that their creative and inquisitive spirits are fulfilled and inspired on the daily. Where would folks discover their absolute new favorite book or movie? Where would teens get together for snacks and chats? Where would kiddos spend their mornings hearing stories about pigeons trying to drive buses, singing songs, and then playing alongside their friends? All of this and more happens at a public library, and we will always continue to grow to ensure the equitable and inclusive representation of all who enter our doors.

I can’t talk about Youth Services without talking about LCL Summer Reading Challenge! Each year, we join public libraries from across the country to celebrate reading, summer sun and fun, and lifelong learning. Summer Reading Challenges are well known for being exciting, engaging ways for public libraries to stay first and foremost in the community’s mind during the summer months. Did you know that participation in a Summer Reading Challenge can also help avoid that summer learning loss? Studies show that students who participate in public library summer reading programs scored higher on reading achievement tests at the beginning of the next school year than those who did not participate.

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Summer Reading Challenge

Plus, parents of youth enrolled in the public library summer reading program reported that their children spent more time reading over the summer, were better prepared for school in the fall, and read more confidently. All that and fun, too – here at Lincoln City Libraries, we are happy to oblige both! Storytimes Mornings at Lincoln City Libraries always start off with our storytimes! Preschoolers, toddlers, tinies, babies, and families all have their own unique opportunity to join an age-appropriate program to hear stories, learn fingerplays, sing songs, and learn how to read. That’s right! Storytimes are designed to actually help prereaders on the path toward literacy! Library storytellers are well-trained in the “Every Child Ready to Read at your Library” curriculum, including the super exciting and critical five practices of early literacy development: Talking, Singing, Reading, Writing, and Playing. The “Every Child” practice is really to help parents and caregivers be better able to help support their child in developing literacy in their homes. Previously, storytimes were maybe just a story or two and were not traditionally structured to support both caregiver and child. By modeling the behavior to use at home, the effect of storytimes can be achieved anytime the child and caregiver are together and not just in the physical library.

Fun for All Ages At Lincoln City Libraries, we entertain kids and teens all year long with engaging programming such as magic from Jeff Quinn, Kokyo Taiko drumming, visits from alpacas, and teen trivia. We also partner with Lincoln Public Schools to provide each school-aged child a “Library OneCard” for use at any LCL branch. We are happy to provide our youth community members with the ability to connect with old and new friends alike, grow the power of reading or listening, and inspire new talents and interests in a fun and accessible environment.

In 2023, Lincoln City Libraries was proud to see that 17,171 community members registered for our Summer Reading Challenge, with over half of the registered participants being kids and teens. Be sure to keep an eye out for our 2024 Summer Reading Challenge, “Adventure Begins at Your Library,” and keep visiting us every day at your favorite branch! Learn more at lincolnlibraries.org.

Lincoln Moms of Lincoln Kids They say a mother’s unwavering support can give her child the courage to chase their dreams. These exceptional Lincoln moms not only encourage their kids to dream, they are chasing their own dreams.

Meet the Moms Stephanie works for the U.S. Marine Corps and is launching a food truck business serving Haitian cuisine. She strives to be a leading example for her two kids, Skylar and Alyssa! Somya, a social psychologist, works with companies to create a culture where people feel they can put their best foot forward. Understanding people’s unique strengths also helps her to raise her daughter, Niya. Meagan serves on the Autism Family Network board, and she’s passionate about helping families find advocacy, education, support, and inclusive events for individuals on the autism spectrum. She also loves encouraging the talents and interests of her four sons.

Stephanie Bruss What are the names and ages of your kids? Skylar is 10, and Alyssa is 8. What do you love about being a mom? Being a mom is the most loving and challenging task that I’ve ever had to do in my life. Keep in mind, I was a black, female Marine for 15 years. Molding two young kids to be brave, kind, selfaware, confident, and selfless is no easy feat. However, every time they display acts of courage, kindness, and grace, it reminds me that I’m doing okay. I also love that they show me there is beauty in imperfection. As I raise these two to be their own person, I will continue to fall in love with being a mom. Tell us about your occupation / business. I am currently working as the Human Resource Assistant (HRA) for the United States Marine Corps Officers in Lincoln. In addition to being an HRA, and a Wine Ambassador for Boisset Collection, I am also launching my Haitian cuisine food truck business, “Choublak.” Being a single mom, a full-time government employee, and trying to launch an ethnic food business in middle America hasn’t been without challenges. However, being part of a community of dedicated female entrepreneurs, such as Ember Society, has given me the support that I need to pursue my entrepreneurial dreams. What is the best advice someone has given you about being a mom? The fact that I am questioning if I am being a good mom, makes me a good mom.

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Somya Mathur Tell us about your daughter. Niya is 8. What do you love about being a mom? I often call motherhood “the full human experience.” There are joys I have known, worries I have felt, and ridden such emotional highs and lows that I would find unimaginable to experience if I were not a parent. It is one role in life that I never feel prepared for, and yet, I cannot be more motivated to do well. The idea of raising a little person into adulthood, having realized their potential, and coming into their own person is enriching. It adds such meaning to my life. It is the most unmatched, uncontested priority in my life. Tell us about your occupation. I am a social psychologist by education and work with companies to create a human-centric culture, one where people come to work and feel that they can put their best foot forward. I also work with leaders and help them realize their potential through executive coaching by understanding their unique strengths profile. My work is about understanding the unique levers one can pull to create a superior people strategy that very often results in a high-performance organization. What is the best advice someone has given you about being a mom? My mom is my friend, guide, and philosopher on this journey. I have yet to meet a mom that has nailed the balance of her work and personal life as well as she has. Through conversations with her, I constantly stand reminded of “water what waters you.” That is to say, keep your cup full to give to others, to be able to exercise the patience and generosity of spirit that is needed to be a good mom.

Meagan Mohr How old are your kids? Keighan is 12, Sawyer is 10, Porter is 7, and Lincoln is 5. What do you love about being a mom? Being a mom has allowed me to reexperience the forgotten magic of my childhood while also instilling and encouraging the growth of self within my children. Parents are afforded such an important opportunity to shape how the future will look right in their own home. I love that I get to be a part of the groundwork for what my children will someday do out in the world. Tell us about your occupation. I am a stay-at-home mom and love that I am available at any time of day for any reason. I can be home with my kids when they are sick, attend school functions, and get my kids where they need to be. I also serve on the board of Autism Family Network. When my youngest son was diagnosed with autism, I felt very alone and was deep in grief. Autism Family Network helped me through a very difficult time of my life by offering support, education, advocacy, and community-inclusive events for our family. I love — and am so honored — that I now get to help other families in the same ways we have been helped. What is the best advice someone has given you about being a mom? Being a mom is so hard. There is so much unsolicited parenting advice and shame that you can encounter from anyone who wants to offer an opinion. In the first few years of being a mom, my mother saw that I was struggling and told me to just listen to and trust myself. My gut instinct and what works for our family may not be right for other families but I have never been steered wrong by listening to and trusting myself. Everything else is just white noise.

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Give Your Garden the Good Stuff Spring planning and sunshine will be here before you know it. As you start planning your yards and gardens, consider applying EarthFuel.

What is EarthFuel?

Why use Earthfuel?

Earthfuel is Lincoln’s own compost. Yard waste (grass and leaves) is collected from houses and businesses in Lincoln and brought to the Bluff Road Solid Waste Management Facility. Here, the yard waste gets turned into compost. By maintaining the correct conditions of moisture, oxygen, nitrogen, and carbon, microorganisms work to decompose the yard waste over many months creating a rich dark fertilizer for your soil.

Better water retention means less frequent watering.

Compost is a soil additive that is packed full of organic matter and nutrients for plants. Because compost is so full of nutrients, a little goes a long way each season. See Lincoln.ne.gov/compost for more information and to calculate the amount needed for your garden or lawn.

Adds airspace within soil, creating a better structure for plants to root deeply and resist erosion.

Saves money on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides.

Do you need quantities of compost in bulk?

Do you need free compost in small quantities?

For vehicles with a cargo carrying space over 60 square feet, you can purchase EarthFuel for $20/cubic yard at Bluff Road Solid Waste Management, 6001 Bluff Road in Lincoln.

For personal projects, compost is available at no cost at the North 48th Street Transfer Station during business hours, at 5101 North 48th Street in Lincoln. Cargo carrying space of the vehicle must 60 square feet or less.

For availability call 402-441-8102.

For availability call 402-441-8104.

Makes microbes in your soil happy and healthy!

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Lin

Help the lineman get back to his bucket truck.

lincolnkidsinc.com | 11 Discover more activies and tips at LES.com/kids. LinemanMaze2.indd 1

1/15/2024 9:02:14 AM

75 Years of Hope & Healing W I T H K AT I E M C L E E S E S T E P H E N S O N E X EC U T I V E D I R EC TO R , H O P E S P O K E

Tell us a little about your journey and what led you to HopeSpoke. Katie: I knew I wanted to be a social worker at age 15, and I’ve spent my entire career focusing on the mental health of children and families. I’ve had the opportunity to work at Nebraska’s Office of the Supreme Court and Juvenile Justice, as well as the Department of Health and Human Services and a large nonprofit. And while my prior jobs were all great experiences, joining HopeSpoke has been the most rewarding. I love our mission, and our staff has tremendous dedication and expertise. HopeSpoke has great therapists and leaders in mental health. HopeSpoke is celebrating its 75th anniversary. How has it evolved to meet the community’s mental health and wellness needs? Katie: HopeSpoke, formerly Child Guidance Center, was formed back in 1949 in response to a national movement recognizing that children’s mental health services were dramatically different than those of adults. We’ve come a long way, evolving the treatment of mental illness with better understanding through brain science and psychiatric help. And while we’ve always focused on kids and families, we now serve many adults.

The pandemic introduced telehealth, which has been transformational – those in need don’t need to drive across town. Telehealth allows us to reach children and families outside of the Lincoln area, too. Our partnership with Lincoln Public Schools also lets us have sessions at school, providing valuable services to families who might otherwise not walk through our doors. How common would you say it is that kids require mental health services, and what kinds of issues have become more relevant recently? Before the pandemic, the thought was that one in five people were living with some type of mental health issue. The need for mental health rose, possibly to more like three in five, during the pandemic. There’s a silver lining, though, because people became more aware and helped destigmatize mental health. The rise in mental health awareness has been helpful for parents because they now have more resources. You know as a parent when something has changed with your children. Depression and anxiety are what we see the most, and there are other issues that we might not address until kids are older. It’s really about listening to your kid. Let them be open with how they are feeling. Behavior has meaning, and there’s something behind it. HopeSpoke’s role is to get to the root of those things and help the family.

What services are available to kids and families? Katie: Our team understands the importance of early intervention and treatment. HopeSpoke offers:

• Crisis & Residential Services • Extended Day Treatment • Outpatient Services • School-based Programs Do you think Lincoln is a great place to raise kids? Katie: Certainly! Not only does our community have a tremendous sense of caring, we’re kind of a big small town so our problems seem more solvable. We have great schools with dedicated teachers and staff who go above and beyond — especially in terms of social support.

A big part of helping those facing mental health issues is just being open-minded. There’s still a perception that having a mental health issue signifies you’re weak or you have some sort of moral failing. With a diagnosis and treatment, people can learn coping strategies and how to manage the symptoms they have. As a parent, be supportive and listen. HopeSpoke can help if your kids need support now.” - KATIE MCLEESE STEPHENSON

To learn more about HopeSpoke’s services, visit hopespoke.org.

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How many words can you make from the letters in

HOPESPOKE

HopeSpoke inspires healthy futures for children and their families through behavioral and mental health services. 14 | s p r i n g 2024

Find Your Inner Strength

$49 4 Weeks of Classes + Uniform 402-405-5964 • 4747 Old Cheney Rd, Ste B swansonsmartialarts.com

2023 2024

FRIDAY | FEB 16

SEASON

LIED CENTER FOR

7:30 PM PERFORMING ARTS S TA R WA R S : T H E O R C H E S T R A S T R I K E S BAC K

M USIC DIREC TOR

3:00 PM O’DONNELL AUDITORIUM LE M O N Y S N I CK ET’ S TH E CO M P OS E R I S D E AD

L I N C O L N S Y M P H O N Y. C O M

E D WA R D P O L O C H I C K ,

SATURDAY | APR 6

4 0 2 . 4 7 6 . 2 2 11

LINCOLN’S SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

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Lookin’ for Love! Search for these Valentine’s Day classics! The words can be vertical, horizontal, diagonal, or backwards.

Heart

Pink

Cupid

Valentine

Love

February

Chocolate

Hug

Teddy Bear

Cards

Flowers

Candy

dots & boxes Play with a friend and take turns connecting 2 dots. If the line completes a box, put your initials in it and draw another line. The person with the most boxes wins!

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Eyes on the Sky Most of the time, we try to find activities for Lincoln kids to do on the ground. But every once in a while, we think it’s good to look up and take in all the life that’s going on up there. According to the Nebraska Ornithologists’ Union, there are 469 species of birds living in our state, and while we don’t have room to list them all here, we picked some of our favorites that are easily identifiable in Lincoln. As the weather warms up, we challenge you to get out there and look to the skies! If you see a bird you really like, try to take a photo or draw a picture of it. We’d love to feature it here in the magazine!

Bald Eagle Haliaeetus leucocephalus This iconic symbol of the United States is known for its broad wingspan and white feathers atop its head, giving the false impression that it’s a “bald” eagle. Their wingspan typically stretches between five and seven and a half feet, and they can build nests that can weigh more than two tons! These carnivores are known to spend wintertime near bodies of water, where they can find fish and other wildlife to eat. Holmes Lake on South 70th Street and Pioneers Boulevard is home to a family of bald eagles. Grab a friend and take a walk along the great trails surrounding the lake, and see if you can spot one with your eagle eyes!

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Great Blue Heron Ardea herodias The Great Blue Heron can be seen flying majestically near creeks, lakes, ponds, and rivers, and is famous for its delicate landings and the slow, graceful beating of its wings. They’re common across much of the continental United States, and depending on which part of the country, they will either migrate to follow warmer weather, or, on the Pacific Coast, they maintain permanent homes to take advantage of the temperate climate. These birds love to eat fish as well as other small critters and insects they spot nearby. They tend to have large communities and lay pale blue eggs. In Lincoln, we have a rookery (a place where wading birds make nests) of Great Blue Herons at Wilderness Park on the western edge of town, near Salt Creek. To find it, you’ll need to enter the park heading northwest from the trailhead on South 27th Street and Saltillo Road.

Ruby-Throated Hummingbird Archilochus colubris

The Ruby-Throated is one of several hummingbirds that can be found in our state, and is named for the vibrant, iridescent red feathers found along the necks of the males. These tiny birds (just three and a half inches!) are known for their love of insects and nectar from flowers. You can see these beauties at the Pioneers Park Nature Center or you can make your own feeder for hummingbirds. Simply cut some holes in the lid of a small jar and fill it with a mixture of four parts water to one part sugar.

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summer camps In the pages that follow, you’ll find amazing local camp options to make your summer spectacular.

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Six weeks of learning, laughing, singing & growing!

Family All Around Camp

Ages 3-18 months with a caregiver

Zoo Train Camp

Ages 19 mo.-3½ years with a caregiver

Art & Music Camp Ages 3-5½ years

Jr. Chef Camp Ages 3½ -6 years

Master Chef Camp Ages 5½ -9 years

with Shawna Gordon

(402) 770-1486 | kindermusikoflincoln.com Call or visit our website to register or learn more!

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Lincoln's STEAM-Learning Summer Adventure Weekly camps with care from 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Located at Holmes Elementary School, 5230 Sumner St, Lincoln, NE 68506

LEARN MORE AND REGISTER AT SPARKLINCOLNLEARNING.ORG 22 | s p r i n g 2024

workshops and s ummer camps available Join us for a half day, one week, or all summer long For grades K-3 (2023-2024 school year) Workshops are offered during LPS Spring Break from 8am-11:30am Camp is offered from 8am-4:30pm each day during summer break Each camp + workshop is uniquely themed with STEAM-inspired activities to match

Learn more about camps around town by following Lincoln Kids on Facebook and Instagram!

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LINCOLN PARKS AND RECREATION SCHOOL IS OUT AND PARKS ARE OPEN SUMMER DAY CAMPS

JUNE 3 - AUGUST 9 for only $156/week. Summer provides a lot of opportunity to be active and gain new experiences. We have opportunities for children, youth, and adults including summer-long day camps, nature camps, adaptive recreation and leadership programs.

lincoln.ne.gov/daycamps

SPRING AND SUMMER PROGRAMMING NATURE DAY CAMPS

- ages 3 years old to 8th grade - lincoln.ne.gov/naturecenter

GOLF CAMPS AND LESSONS - lincolncitygolf.org

SPRING BREAK (MAR. 11-15) - $210/week for Nature Day Camps - $33/day at Belmont or Calvert

PRESCHOOLS

- At the Pioneers Park Nature Center & Calvert - lincoln.ne.gov/preschool

GET PAID TO PLAY We’re looking for key players to join our dynamic, fun, and goal-oriented Parks & Rec team helping to deliver our innovative summer programming like our popular Summer Day Camps and Nature Camps, swim lessons, and free public events like Party and Play in the Parks.

lincoln.ne.gov/summerjobs

parks.lincoln.ne.gov lincolnkidsinc.com | 25

Make It a Tasty Week Need easy, weeknight meal ideas? We’ve got you covered with five weeknight meals that minimize prep and ingredients, and maximize smiles and dinnertime fun for your family. Complete with grocery list and instructions, here are simple, time tested, kid-approved recipes from my home to yours! Recipes are written to serve four, adjust based on your family’s appetite!

Jodi Lincoln Kids Designer and Mother of Two

Monday PASTA WITH MEAT SAUCE AND CRESCENT ROLLS Brown 1 lb ground beef with 1 chopped onion, and ½ tsp of salt, pepper, and onion powder, then drain. Add 1 jar of pasta sauce and simmer for 5-10 minutes. At the same time, cook pasta and crescent rolls according to package directions. Serve rolls with pasta topped with parmesan cheese.

GROCERY LIST 2

Yellow Onions

1-2 Pkgs

Mushrooms

1-2 Bags

Shredded Lettuce

1 Pkg

Baby Carrots

3-4

Apples

1 Container Sour Cream 8-16 Oz

Shredded Cheddar Cheese

8-16 Oz

Shredded Mozzarella Cheese

Skinless, Boneless Chicken Breasts

2 Lbs

Ground Beef

1 Loaf

Bread

1 Pkg

English Muffins

1 Tube

Ready-To-Bake Crescent Rolls

1 Box

Minute Rice (Style Of Your Choice)

1 Bag

Tortilla Chips

1 Pkg

Pasta (Style Of Your Choice)

1 Jar

Pasta Sauce

4-5 Can

Tuna

1 Pkg

Pepperonis

1 Can

Black Olives

1 Can

Black Or Refried Beans

1 Can

Pizza Sauce

1 Jar

Salsa

1 Bottle

Maple Syrup

1 Bottle

Dijon Mustard

1 Container Parmesan Cheese 1 Jar

Mayonnaise

1 Jar

Peanut Butter or Fruit Dip

1 Pkg

Brown Sugar

Spices

Salt, Pepper, Onion Powder, Garlic Powder, Paprika, Taco Seasoning

Suggested quantities listed above can be increased/decreased as needed to fit your family size. Some items may already be in your pantry!

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Tuesday SWEET CHICKEN WITH RICE AND CANDIED CARROTS Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Place baby carrots in a pot with ¼ cup butter, ¼ cup brown sugar, ⅛ cup water, and ⅛ tsp salt. Cook with lid on at low heat for 45 minutes, stir occasionally. Combine ½ c dijon mustard with ¼ c maple syrup in bowl. Place boneless chicken breasts in a greased, oven-safe baking dish and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Pour mustard and syrup mix over chicken. Bake for 40 minutes or until meat is 165 degrees. Cook rice according to package directions. Serve chicken over rice with carrots on the side.

Wednesday TUNA MELTS WITH SLICED APPLES Mix 1 can tuna with ¼ cup mayonnaise, ¼ tsp salt, pepper, onion powder and paprika. Repeat for number of cans needed. For each sandwich, spread mayonnaise on one side of bread slice and place on a non-stick pan heated on medium heat. Top with tuna mix, shredded cheddar cheese, and bread slice with mayonnaise facing up. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side. Serve with apple slices and peanut butter or fruit dip.

Thursday OVEN NACHOS & TACO SALADS Brown 1 lb ground beef with 1 chopped onion and 1 package taco seasoning. Spread tortilla chips on foil-lined baking sheet. Sprinkle with cooked beef, salsa, and cheese. Broil in oven for 4-6 minutes. Remove from pan and place baked chip portions onto plates, or, for taco salads, place shredded lettuce in a bowl and mix with crushed, baked chip portions. Top with lettuce, black olives, beans, and sour cream.

Friday PERSONALIZED MINI-MUFFIN PIZZAS Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Place English muffin halves on a foil-lined baking sheet. Spread pizza sauce on muffins and top with mozzarella cheese. Add toppings (pepperoni, black olives, mushrooms). Bake for 10 minutes and serve.

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Save Money This Spring Family dining is a great way to create lasting memories. And here in Lincoln, several familyfriendly restaurants offer complimentary kids meals, typically with the purchase of an adult entrée, and discounted kids options to help make the money in your checking account last a little longer. Dine out for less with these great deals.

T_ u_esday _ _________

u_n_d_a S __y_____ __ HF Crave r eat free Kids 12 and unde (dine-in only) ue Pit Dickey’s Barbec $12 adult ith w e Kids eat fre meal purchase

y sd ne ed__ W __a__ __ ____ Copal Mexican Cuisine Kids eat free, one per adult meal Red Robin 50% off kid’s meals (dine-in)

*These offers exist as of date of publication, check with establishments to verify!

M_onday _ __________

Honest Abe’s $3 Kid’s Meals

China Buffet Kids eat free, on e adult per meal Pizza Ranch Kids eat free fro m 11 AM to 8 PM, per fullpriced paying adult Screamers Kids eat free, on e adult per meal

E_ v_eryday _ _______________ ____ HuHot Mon

golian Grill Kids three and under eat free Ginger Kids three and under eat free Amigo’s / King’ s Classic Kids meals are $3.99 from 4 PM to 8 PM weekdays and all-day Saturday and Sunday IHOP Kids eat free fro m 4 PM to 10 PM , dine-in only with full-priced adult entrée

Nebraska Nouns!

Nebraska’s birthday is March 1. Unscramble these famous Nebraska people, places, and things!

ROTODYH NYHLC

_____________________________

NAHCR SRESDNGI

_____________________________

EEUNBR AWSNIDHC

_____________________________

NRCO

_____________________________

MAAOH

_____________________________

CLNINLO

_____________________________

YHNIMCE CRKO

_____________________________

PWEANE

_____________________________

ANPOC

_____________________________

ASDNNITG RBAE

_____________________________

MCAOLML X

_____________________________

NHNOYJ CONARS

_____________________________

1. Dorothy Lynch / 2. Ranch Dressing / 3. Reuben Sandwich / 4. Corn / 5. Omaha / 6. Lincoln / 7. Chimney Rock / 8. Pawnee / 9. Ponca / 10. Standing Bear / 11. Malcolm X / 12. Johnny Carson

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Villarreal Nebraska Academy Youth Soccer

Classes for Age 3-7 Years Old Mar/April/May Spring Classes June/July Summer Classes or

- JOIN A TEAM registration deadline March 3 for Spring Soccer 2023/24 TEAMS Birth Year Groups Yellows : 2018, 2017, 2016 Groguets : 2015 & 2014 Select : 2013 & 2012

VILLARREAL NEBRASKA ACADEMY 345 Speedway Circle, Suite 1 Call or email to join a team!

admin@villarrealnebraska.com info@villarrealnebraska.com 402-853-7100

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

Step into the new year at:

PIONEER

GYMNASTICS REGISTER TODAY!

PRESCHOOL

Classes for Boys and Girls Ages: 18 months - 18 years Pre-School, Classes and Teams Birthday Parties Special Events

DAY CA SUMMER 402-483-1304 info@pioneergym.com www.pioneergym.com 3800 Old Cheney Rd. Suite A1 Lincoln, NE 68516

ENROLL TODAY! Learn more at ymcalincoln.org.

TER BEFORE & AF L O O SCH lincolnkidsinc.com | 31

Spring Cleaning

BINGO

Spring cleaning has never been so easy and fun! Complete this activity and score all the brownie points with your parents!

Declutter closet

Donate old clothes

Sort toy bin and find 5 to donate

Clean windows

Put toys away

Clean under bed

Sweep the floors

Dust baseboards

Water plants

Clean bed sheets

Vacuum

Clean bathroom sinks

FREE SPACE

Wipe down mirrors

Clean toilets

Clean ceiling fans

Organize kitchen pantry

Restock bathrooms with toilet paper

Wash your pets’ bowls

Listen to music while you clean

Organize bathroom drawers

Clean the microwave

Sanitize door handles

Clean under couch cushions

Organize dresser drawers

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Teacher Feature: Kathy Hansen Lincoln Kids had the opportunity to talk with Kathy Hansen at Arnold Elementary. Take a minute to learn more about one of the great educators we have in our city!

What school and grade do you teach?

What do you love about your school?

Arnold Elementary, 1st grade.

I absolutely love my school, from the staff to the students and families … it’s a great place to be every day. Some days are hard, but the support of my team and administration makes the hard times easier.

How long have you been a teacher? I’ve been teaching a total of 14 years. Have you always taught at the same school/ same grade? No, I also taught for 11.5 years at Wee Wisdom Preschool and did a year of subbing long-term at Wysong Elementary. Tell us about yourself and your family. I am married to my husband, Chris. We have 3 kids — Madelin, 18, Anders, 14, and Kate, 12. We enjoy playing with our dog, being outdoors, and traveling. In our free time, we like to garden, shop, and spend time with friends. We frequently take rides on the bike paths in Lincoln, eat out, and go to Scheels almost every weekend. How has teaching changed since you started? Technology plays a huge role now. Since I started in 2003, there’s a lot more para support than there was back then, and it seems to be more fast-paced, with more meetings and more obligations.

How can parents support teachers? I want parents to know that when we all work together as a team (myself, parents, administration, and support staff), every student has the ability to be successful in the classroom! Share one piece of advice for our readers. Support your child at home and at school. Never be afraid to reach out to school professionals for help. What’s your favorite school lunch? As a kid, I lived for pizza days. As an adult, I’ve never had it!! I find that it’s easier to bring something from home. What’s your favorite snow day / day off activity? Relaxing with my kids and getting stuff done at home.

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On the Bookshelf

Brodrick, Age 10 What book series do you think the kids of Lincoln should read next? Wings of Fire by Tui T. Sutherland.

BOOK REVIEWS FROM LINCOLN KIDS

Lincoln Kids sat down with Brodrick, age 10, and Charlie, age 9, to talk about their favorite books. We’re always on the lookout for material that might interest our readers, and thought that there might be no higher recommendation for literature than that of the Lincoln kids themselves! Thanks for sharing with us, Brodrick and Charlie!

Tell us about the series. It’s about talking dragons living in the world of Pyrrhia. There are seven different tribes of dragons, each with their own special abilities. The main characters are dragons who must contend with multiple prophecies, which aren’t always fulfilled in ways you might expect. The young dragons must work as a team to put an end to the conflicts among the different types of dragons across the continent of Pyrrhia. Is Wings of Fire a chapter book? Yes, there are fourteen books, and there are several graphic novels, which are adaptations of the main books. Where are you in the series? I‘ve finished all fourteen books! In addition to the main series, there are also two bigger books related to the main story. What is your favorite book in the series? Dragonslayer is my favorite. It’s one of the shorter books, separate from the main story. The characters in Dragonslayer are the most interesting, and I like how it also follows humankind interaction with the dragons. I suggest reading Dragonslayer before you read the last novel. Do you think all kids can read this story? I’d say seven or older should read this book.

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Charlie, Age 9 What book are you reading, Charlie? The Babysitters Club: Mary Anne’s Bad Luck Mystery by Cynthia Yuan Cheng. It’s my first time reading the Babysitters Club series and I’m really getting into it! What is the book about? It is about a girl who is in a babysitters club and someone is sabotaging her — making her think she has bad luck. For instance, she receives multiple mysterious notes and one bad luck necklace. She needs to figure out what is going on and who is sending her these things. Who’s your favorite character? Kristy is my favorite character because I think she is really cool. She is the leader of the Babysitters Club. I would want to be the leader of the club too, if I was in it. Is this book part of a series? Yes! My mom recommended this series to me because she really liked reading them when she was growing up. I wasn’t sure about them at first but they are really interesting. Plus, this one is a graphic novel and I love that I can see exactly what the author wanted the characters to look like. Who would you recommend this book to? I would recommend this book to anyone who likes a lot of mystery. Where do you like to read? In my room, because it’s quiet and cozy, and because my mom just redecorated it for me. It’s been so nice on all of our snow days to snuggle up with a book!

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Telling Stories. One Snap at a Time. Advertising, Lifestyle, Portrait, and Editorial Photographer in Lincoln, NE.

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kathyplunkett.com kaplunkphoto 402-853-4657

bluestemlincoln.com lincolnkidsinc.com | 37

38 | s p r i n g 2024 1. The sun has changed color. 2. The blue watering can has changed direction. 3. The righthand cloud has moved even further right. 4. The ladder on the pear tree is missing two rungs. 5. The woman in the bottom left hand corner is now wearing a blue shirt. 6. The path is now just dirt. 7. The apples on the ground have vanished. 8. The vegetables in the wheelbarrow have increased in size.

There are eight differences between the top and bottom images — find them all!

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A Springy Lincoln Adventure Find a friend, grab a pencil, fill in the blanks, and roll with laughter.

One sunny spring day in Lincoln,

peaceful [noun].

. I decided to [verb]

NOUN

Nebraska, I decided to explore the

VERB

through it and found myself in a [adjective] ADJECTIVE

[adjective] parks and

[noun]

ADJECTIVE

. The

world of natural wonders. The colors were

NOUN

sun was shining, and colorful [plural noun]

so [adjective]

, and the air was filled

ADJECTIVE

PLURAL NOUN

were blooming all around. I could hear

with the scent of blooming [plural noun] .

the laughter of kids playing [noun]

In this [adjective]

ACTIVITY

and the gentle sound of [plural noun] PLURAL NOUN

ADJECTIVE

setting, I met a friendly

ADJECTIVE

[person’s name] who showed me around. OCCUPATION

Together, we explored the [noun],

chirping in the air.

enjoyed the [adjective]

marveled at the beauty of the blooming

NOUN

and rode through the [adjective]

trails.

ADJECTIVE

The air smelled [adjective]

as I pedaled

ADJECTIVE

along the [adjective]

trails, and

ADJECTIVE

Excitedly, I hopped on my [noun]

[plural noun] . It was a day filled with PLURAL NOUN

[noun]

, [noun]

NOUN

bike trail. I even

, and the

NOUN

simple magic of spring in Lincoln, Nebraska.

ADJECTIVE

spotted a beautiful

[noun]

in the

NOUN

sky, creating a stunning backdrop to

Noun: person, place, thing, or idea Verb: an action (doesn’t always, but can end in -ing or -s)

the scene.

Adjective: describes a noun

As I continued my journey, I discovered

Preposition: a word that tells us where or when something is in relation to something else, like “the man on the platform”

Adverb: describes a verb or how an action is done, such as “quickly”

a hidden [noun] NOUN

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NOUN

that led to a

DIRECTORY Child Care & Education Better Living Foster Care & Family Services

Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy of Southern Hills

Wee Wisdom Christian Preschool & Academy

Our foster care program provides training and support for families to assist them in caring for youth in our community who need a stable and loving home while their parents gain skills to reunite their family. Become a foster parent with Better Living. Together we can make a difference!

(6w - 12y) Brand new state-of-the-art learning academy with exclusive curriculum developed for each classroom, guardian-accessible cameras, age-appropriate playgrounds, an onsite chef, and more! With our “Hug First, Then Teach” principle we take a whole-child approach, strengthening each child’s emotional, intellectual, social, and physical well-being. Currently enrolling all ages – including Summer Camp!

(3y - 6y) Wee Wisdom has been providing a quality preschool program to the Lincoln-area families since 1996. We provide a well-rounded educational experience that includes a balance between informal and structured learning.

7100 S. 29th St., Ste. B (402) 476-0104 Betterlivingne.com

Community Action Head Start and Early Head Start FREE high-quality early childhood education services for families from pregnancy to age 5. Home-based and center-based program options are available. Head Start and Early Head Start are year-round, full-day programs. Families with low income or receiving SNAP, SSI, or ADC are eligible. 1843 K St. / 2301 O St. / 2615 O St., Suite 4 (402) 875-9328 communityactionatwork.org

Fingerprints Child Development Center (6w - 10y) Featuring an educational curriculum for all ages in a loving, Christian environment! Open 6:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Enrolling now for School Age care with transportation to Meadow Lane, Kahoa and Robinson. Contact for current openings.

5588 Canterbury Ln. (402) 817-4245 kidsrkids.com/southern-hills

Lincoln Parks and Recreation Preschool Programs Little Sprouts Preschool at Calvert Recreation Center and Nature Preschool at Pioneers Park Nature Center are open to children 3 to 5 years of age. Programs are nature based, with teachers planning curriculum around children’s curiosity and wonder of the world around them. (402) 441-8669 lincoln.ne.gov (search: Preschool)

Prairie Hill Learning Center (18m - 14y) Prairie Hill is a Montessori school that serves children ages 18 months through 8th grade. We are a nature-based school immersed in Montessori philosophy of education.

7800 Holdrege St. (402) 467-4503 CapitolCity.org

17705 S. 12th St., Roca, NE 68430 (402) 436-6668 admin@prairiehill.com prairiehill.com

KidsPark

South Gate Preschool

(1 1/2 - 11y) Trusted hourly childcare on days, evenings and weekends! No reservations required. Drop-in Mon. - Thu. 7:30 a.m. - 9:00 p.m., Fri. 7:30 a.m. - 11:00 p.m., and Sat. 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m.!

(18m - Pre-K) South Gate Preschool is an established Lincoln Preschool of 30 years. Our curriculum is based on learning through play with classes for children 18 months to pre-K. Our classes are designed to build a strong foundation for your child’s academic success.

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

Kelly’s Kids North East Providing an enriching environment for children to learn and grow in North East Lincoln. Open Monday-Friday, 6:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. and accept private pay, Title XX, and Lincoln Littles Scholarships available for those that qualify. 4005 N. 70th St. (402) 436-4005 kellyskidsldc.com

3500 Pioneers Blvd. (402) 489-7302 preschool@southgateumc.org southgateumc.org/preschool

Trinity Lutheran School

5201 Old Cheney Rd. (402) 420-7111 weewisdompreschool.org

Birthday Party Fun Butterfly Kisses Face Painting (All ages) Experienced, award-winning face painter. Creating smiles at all kinds of events! (402) 730-7197 butterflykissesfacepainting.com

KidsPark (1 1/2y - 11y) 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 6:30pm8:30pm. Book your date online at kidspark.com/lincoln today! 5633 S. 16th St., Ste. 100 (402) 413-8849 KidsPark.com/Lincoln

Lincoln Children’s Zoo Celebrate your child’s birthday at the Zoo and enjoy all-day 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 St. (402) 475-6741 LincolnZoo.org

Lost In Fun!

(18m - Grade 5) A fulfilling, Christ-based education center. Our Early Childhood Education Program accepts children ages 18 months through Pre-K with extended hours from 7 a.m. - 5:45 p.m. Also offering K-5 classes.

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 and drinks! We do company parties, too! Book your next Fun-tastic party online at lostinfun.com!

1200 North 56th St. (402) 466-1800 trinityoflincoln.org

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

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DIRECTORY Birthday Party Fun (CONT’D)

Pioneers Park Nature Center

Encore Studio

Add nature to your child’s birthday! Parties includes a guided hike or themed activity, special gift for birthday child, party bags for each child, and time for your own activity and refreshments. Recommended for ages 5-12.

(Ages 5 - 11) Piano lessons and piano/keyboard classes for all levels. Teaching beginners of all ages.

3201 S. Coddington Ave. (402) 441-7895 lincoln.ne.gov (search: Pioneers Park Nature Center)

54th & L St. (402) 499-0400 encore-studio.com

Francie & Finch Bookshop

Lessons & Activities

Selling new books of all kinds and original, local art. Hosting author events and book signings. #youmeetthecoolestpeopleinbookstores

Aimee’s Premier Dance

130 S. 13th St, in the Old Telephone Building francieandfinch.com (402) 781-0459

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 ageappropriate music, choreography, and costuming. 6760 Woodland Blvd. (Hickman) (402) 440-8770 apremierdance.com

Bright Lights Summer Learning Adventures (Ages K - 8th Grade) Bright Lights Summer Learning Adventures. Offering 5 weeks of fun, hands-on, STEAM-infused summer learning camps for K-8th grade students. Half-day and full-day camps available on a wide variety of topics from arts and literature to robotics and cooking. More information including camp schedule, locations and registration details available at BrightLights.org. 5561 S. 48th St., Ste. 220 (402) 420-1115 brightlights.org

Chase the Spirit of Dance Established in 2017, Chase the Spirit of Dance provides Lincoln’s premier dance instruction. All of our dance instructors are personable and fully certified to teach dance at all levels. Whether your focus is technique, flexibility, or you’re just looking for a new way to work out, you can find it here. We offer Ballet, Jazz, Hip-Hop, Lyrical, Clogging, Tap, and so much more to students ages 3 - 93! chasethespirit.dance info@chasethespirit.com (402) 904-4091

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Nebraska Game & Parks Outdoor Education Center The Nebraska Outdoor Education Center offers a unique combination of shooting and archery ranges and educational programming. The center offers indoor and outdoor archery ranges and an indoor firearm range, as well as classes, day camps, workshops, special events, and instruction for all ages and skill levels. 4703 N. 44th St. (402) 471-6141 outdoornebraska.gov/outdooredcenter

Pediatric Dentistry, P.C.

Lincoln Boys Choir

(All ages) Pediatric Dentistry, P.C. provides oral health services for toddlers, children, adolescents, and persons with special health care needs in a fun, comfortable, and age-appropriate setting.

The Lincoln Boys Choir consists of organized choral groups which promote healthy, lifetime singing skills. Ages 8 - 18.

3901 Pine Lake Rd,, Suite 250 (402) 423-3322 pediatricdentistrypc.net

(402) 499-4446 kirsten@lincolnboyschoir.org lincolnboyschoir.org

Pioneer Gymnastics Academy

Lincoln Music Teachers Association

(18m - 18y) Pioneer Gymnastics Academy offers gymnastics instruction, competition teams, birthday parties and special events for boys and girls ages 18 months to 18 years of age.

LMTA welcomes all music teachers to meet for workshops and camaraderie, to plan activities for our students, and to serve the community. Our LMTA Music Outreach Program offers low-cost lessons, instruments and repairs, music scores and performance opportunities to children in need. Email MOP@LMTA.info. For more information or a Teacher Directory, visit www.LMTA.info.

Marble Music Discover the music in you with private music lessons at Marble Music Studios. Music lessons don’t have to be dull to achieve great results. At Marble Music Studios, our team of teachers bring fun to every lesson with engaging, age-appropriate curriculum and repertoire. Specializing in strings, piano, guitar, ukulele and voice lessons. Now offering toddler music classes! Target ages: ages 1-3 for ECM Classes, ages 4-18 for private music lessons. 6201 S. 58th St. (402) 413-6355 marblemusicne.com

3800 Old Cheney Rd. Suite A1 (402) 483-1304 info@pioneergym.com pioneergym.com

Little emergencies are a big deal. A child’s illness or injury doesn’t have to be reason to worry. With skilled pediatric providers and no appointment needed, you’re in good hands with CHI Health.

Priority Care

Emergency Care

• Open 8 a.m. - 8 p.m., 7 days a week • Urgent care for kids 3 months and older • Walk-in care at primary care prices • 3 convenient locations

• Open 24/7 for pediatric emergency care • Lincoln’s only ER just for kids • Child-friendly rooms and a private waiting area

CHI Health Clinics 2510 S 40th St. (south of 40th & Normal) 4055 Yankee Hill Rd. (40th and Yankee Hill) 1601 N 86th St. (northeast of 84th and Holdrege) CHIhealth.com/PriorityCare

Pediatric Place St. Elizabeth 555 South 70th St. Located by ER entrance CHIhealth.com/PediatricPlace

At Lincoln Orthodontics, Dr. Willett is all about straightening things out. You can help her by connecting the brackets on Lina’s braces! Start at number 1 , and then trace a line between brackets. But wait! There are some tricky orthodontic rules:

1 You will start a new line on any green bracket.

2 You will draw through any yellow bracket.

3 You will end a line on any red bracket.

3 5

11 13

17 16

20 21

10 12 14 15 18

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Connect the Brackets WITH

Dr. Willett!

Call Lincoln Orthodontics to set up a free consult with Dr. Willett at (402) 489-8841. lincoln-orthodontics.com • 6825 S 27th St #202

Save some time — scan and schedule a free consultation online!

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