Lincoln kids newspaper spring2014 by Lincoln Kids Magazine

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Celebrating our 21st year!

Lincoln Kids! Quarterly Quarterly Family Family Newspaper Newspaper

Please Please Take Take One One

21st 21st Year Year No. No. 11

Your Family Guide for Lincoln and the Surrounding Area

February, March and April Our Special “Early Bird” Camp Issue! “Forgotten Road” by Sophia Lyman, age 15, Student at Art Planet

Spring 2014

Lincoln Kids!

Imagine if your child could experience... • More success in school • Less time spent doing homework • Better memory at school and home • Faster mental skills during sports • Greater confidence • Improved ability to focus • More options for the future • Improved attitudes at home and school

We help children with: learning struggles, autism, dyslexia, ADHD, reading difficulties, traumatic brain injuries, self-improvement and academic enhancement.

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Page 2 • lincolnkidsinc.com

From The Publisher

Mark Martin

elcome to (a really packed) edition of Lincoln kids! newspaper. This is our “Early Bird” spring and summer camp issue featuring tons of fantastic opportunities for kids to learn, grow mentally and physically, meet new friends, and have lots of fun! We attempt to cover a wide range of topics related to families with kids and try to promote the “good life” here in the heartland. There are always lots of positive things going on! We want to welcome back our wonderful article contributers; Charleen, Lindsay, Vicki, Dr. Bob, Anita, Regina, Andrea, Gwelda, Whitney, and the others. It is also nice to have another nice article by Gretchen. Starting with this issue we welcome a new series of sto-

Lincoln Kids! ries from a guy who might have the neatest job in town, John Chapo, CEO and President of the Lincoln Children’s Zoo. Dawn Garcia has done another fantastic job on the calendar so if you want to find out what family things are happening check it out on pages 35-38. On a personal note: a while back a good friend of mine related that his son’s grades were dropping and that he seemed depressed and low on energy. They tried all the parenting motivational tips but nothing seemed to work. My friend came across an article on Vitamin “D3” and how during the winter most North Americans are depleted in this vital component of health. He gave it a try and within a month his son’s attitude improved as well as his grades. My own bone doctor recommended it to me several years ago and I feel the difference. Have a great end of the winter and think spring!

Mark Martin,

Spring 2014 Cover Artist

My name is Sophia Lyman. I’m fifteen and homeschooled. I taught myself to draw by working through drawing books I checked out from the library. When I was ten, my drawings were improving significantly. Soon I was looking into doing more than just drawing and took my first art class at the age of twelve with Doni Stoner. That class got me hooked on painting. I am currently taking an art class taught by Tamera Kaye who runs an art studio from her home called Art Planet. I enjoy playing sports, mainly volleyball, and do a bit of archery. I’m a member of Venturing Crew 21 and like to spend a lot of time outdoors. I practice art because it allows me to show people how I see the world. I’ll continue to practice my painting and hope that it shows other young people to use the gifts they have and to continue to strive toward their goals.

Publisher/Editor/Paperboy, Lncoln Kids! newspaper

Advertising, Artwork, Article, & Calendar Deadline for the 2014 Summer issue is April 10th. Covering: May, June & July To view our issues online visit our website at: lincolnkidsinc.com

Attention Young Artists and Poets! How would you like to be

published in Lincoln Kids! newspaper? Mail or email us a copy of your Artwork and Poems for consideration-TODAY! lincolnkids@windstream.net phone: (402) 798-0224

Email:

website:

lincolnkidsinc.com

BMX RACING Located at North 1st & Charleston Streets. Just South of Oak Lake.

Lincoln Kids! Newspaper, 25660 South 12th St. Martell, Nebraska 68404

Website: W ebsitee: www www.starcitybmx.com .starcitybmx.com Email: starcitybmx@yahoo.com s Hotline: Ho otline: 402-441-0320

RACING SUN SUNDAYS NDA AYS Y Publisher and Editor in Chief – Mark Martin Advertising – Mark Martin Art Direction – Mark Martin Calendar and more – Dawn Garcia Illustrations – Children & Ron Wheeler’s Fat Free Clip Art Printer – Page 1 Printers Lincoln Kids! Inc is published quarterly in February, May, August and November. Mailing Address: 25660 South 12th Street, Martell, NE, 68404. Phone number: (402) 798-0224. E-mail: lincolnkids@windstream.net Copyright ©2013 by Lincoln Kids! Inc. All rights reserved. We are not responsible for errors and omissions. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission prohibited. Lincoln Kids! encourages your submission of feature articles, photographs and ideas. We reserve the right to edit submitted material. All submissions will be considered for publication. Materials will not be returned unless prior arrangements are made. Advertising and information is accepted at the discretion of the publisher. Web site is located at: www.lincolnkidsinc.com Current and past issues may be viewed there.

Sign-ups: 1:30 too 2:00 PM Time: ASAP Race Time:

SUMMER RACING THURSDAYS THURSDAYS Sign-ups: 6:30 too 7:00 PM Race T Time: ime: ASAP

GATE GA ATTE PRACTICE MONDAYS MONDA AYS Y From 6:30 to 8:00 PM Rac ce Fees: $7 for Race n / $10 for trophy ribbon Spring 2014 Page 3

Lincoln Kids!

Titanoboa: Monster Snake Slithers into Morrill Hall By Mandy Haase, Public Relations Coordinator, University of Nebraska State Museum

lithering in at 48 feet long, a realistic replica of the world’s largest snake will be on exhibit February 22 through Labor Day at the University of Nebraska State Museum in Morrill Hall (14th and Vine Streets, UNL City Campus). Titanoboa lived 60 million years ago and weighed in at an estimated 2,500 pounds. This remarkable Smithsonian exhibit features a striking full-scale model of Titanoboa, the largest snake that ever lived. The exhibit includes fossils and bones of Titanoboa and modern reptiles, exhibits on past environments and clips from the Smithsonian Channel documentary, Titanoboa: Monster Snake. Visitors will learn about the discovery, reconstruc-

tion and implications Paleontology of this enormous repin the tile. University of The startling disNebraska State covery of Titanoboa Museum joined was made by a team forces with of scientists working Jonathan Bloch in the world’s largest of the Florida open-pit coal mine at Museum of Cerrejón in La Guajira, Colombia. Titanoboa Model Photo by James Natural History Carlos Collecting expedi- DiLoreto, Smithsonian Institution and Jaramillo of the Smithsonian tions over the last decade have Tropical Research Institute to produced finds of giant turtles and unlock the mysteries of this crocodiles, as well as the firstancient time and learn more about known bean plants and some of how Titanoboa lived and hunted. the earliest banana, avocado and The fossilized remains revealed chocolate plants. The most specthat, after the extinction of the tacular discovery is the fossilized dinosaurs, the tropics were vertebrae of a previously undiswarmer than today and witnessed covered species of snake. the birth of the South American Jason Head, assistant professor rainforest, in which huge creatures in the Dept. of Earth and fought to become the Earth’s top Atmospheric Sciences at the predators. Dominating this era University of Nebraska-Lincoln was Titanoboa, the undisputed and curator of Vertebrate

largest snake in the history of the world. The exhibition is a collaboration between the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, the Florida Museum of Natural History, the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute (STRI) and the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service (SITES). For more information visit museum.unl.edu/Titanoboa. Save the Date! On February 23, from 1:30pm-4:30pm is our Sunday with a Scientist: Titanoboa and Snakes. Explore snakes of the past and present with Jason Head, assistant professor in the Dept. of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and curator of Vertebrate Paleontology in the University of Nebraska State Museum.

The Lincoln Gem and Mineral Club Proudly Presents

Saturday April 5 9AM - 6PM

Sunday April 6 10AM - 5PM

Adults: $5, Adult 2-day pass: $9 Children 11 and under Free with paid adult.

Lancaster Event Center Dealers, Demos Children’s Activities, Educational Programs, Rough & Uncut Gems, Agates, Gemstones, Minerals Fossils, Petrified Wood, Equipment & Supplies, Gifts, and Fun!

84th & Havelock, Lincoln, Nebraska

Bring this ad or a can of food for the Lincoln Food Bank to receive $1 off admission per adult.

Page 4 • lincolnkidsinc.com

www.lincolngemmineralclub.org

Lincoln Kids!

My Scaley, Furry, Feathery... Face Book Friends By Mark Martin, and the Lincoln Children’s Zoo

f you are on Facebook, like me, you probably get email notices requesting a friendship response. Since I am a friend of the Lincoln Children’s Zoo, I have a few “new” friends I would like you to know about:

Tortuga My name is Tortuga and I'm a Caribbean flamingo. I live with 10 of my closest flamingo friends at the Zoo. Contrary to popular belief, I am only pink because of the beta-carotene in the shrimp I eat and love. If I didn’t eat shrimp, I would be a white color! Sometimes you'll see me standing on one leg. This is what I do to stay warm and I can even sleep this way.

Amber

Topper

Hanz

Hi, my name is Topper and I’m a Humboldt penguin! There are nine of us that live here at the Zoo. In the wild, we would eat anchovies, herring and smelt. At the Zoo, we eat fish with vitamins inside. Surprisingly, we aren’t like a lot of other penguins that like cold weather. We come from the coast of Peru and Chile and like warm weather! Did you know that we were born to swim? We have very strong wings and use them to “fly” under water. We can swim as fast as 17 miles per hour. That’s speedy! Have you seen our daily penguin show? We have one every day at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Come watch! It’s a must see.

My name is Hanz and I am one of the four North American river otters at the zoo! Otters, like me, live in lakes, rivers, wetlands, coastal shorelines and marshes. In the wild, I eat fish, frogs, insects and small mammals, but at the zoo, I eat fish, meat and carrots. We all have waterproof fur that allows us to swim and keep our skin warm and dry. Some of my favorite activities include sliding down muddy hills, bouncing objects in my paw, wrestling andplaying tag with my otter friends.

I am a Reeve’s muntjac and my name Amber. In the wild, I live in forests, areas with dense vegetation and the hilly country. At the zoo, I eat a special grain for herbivores (plant eaters) and hay. If I lived in the wild, I’d eat grasses, leaves and fruit. Even though I am a deer, I bark to scare off predators and to warn other animals of danger, because of this, some call me the “barking deer”!

For more Information visit: LincolnZoo.org

Come Join Us for our 27th Annual

Nessa Naivasha My name is Naivasha and I am an East African crowned crane. At the zoo I live with my friend, Nukuru, but in the wild we would live in the dry savannahs of East Africa. At the zoo, I eat formulated grains and insects, but in the wild I eat plants, seeds, insects and small fish. It is crazy, but there are fossil records indicating that my species lived 37 to 54 million years ago

We are the ring-tailed lemurs at the zoo and there are 11 of us! In the wild, we live in forests, so that’s why you might notice us spending most of our time climbing at the Zoo! We love to sunbathe and groom each other with our toothpick. What is our toothpick? It is a row of six finely spaced bottom teeth. At the zoo, we love to eat fruits, vegetables, and special fiber biscuits, but in the wild, we eat leaves, flowers, insects and tree bark. Have you seen us hopping around our exhibit?

April 12th, 2014 Saturday from 9 a.m.–1 p.m. Hands-on activities, artwork displays and more, for children ages birth through eight. Stage performances throughout the day! Sponsored in part by: Lincoln Association for the Education of Young Children

Southeast Community College Gymnasium 8800 “O” Street LAEYC

Free to the public Spring 2014 Page 5

Lincoln Kids! World of Knowledge Child Development Center “Our early learning center will provide an environment where your child will feel safe, happy, and rewarded.”

• Preschool curriculum beginning at age one • Sign language beginning at age 6 weeks • Before, after, and schools – out care • We offer swimming lessons, soccer, Taekwondo, dance classes, and field trips

Ages 6 weeks – age 12

Open 6:30am – 6:00pm M-F

8310 Wendell Way • 402-483-4769 worldofknowledgene.com

Now Registering:

Elementary: Grades K-5 Full Day Pre-Kindergarten Morning Pre-school: Age 3 Morning & Afternoon Preschool: Age 4 Childcare: Infants–Age 5 (402) 483-7774 • christschools.org • 4325 Sumner St.

Accommodations: Helping Students Succeed Submitted by Eileen Vautravers, M.D. and Becky Kugler

teacher about accommodations which can be made in his classroom to ensure the successful completion of schoolwork, mastery of academic learning and demonstration of one’s proficiency. Yet, the learning requirements remain unchanged. Assistive technology, such as text to speech programs, audio books, and electron-

f your child experiences a learning, behavior or speechlanguage problem, the school can help through appropriate accommodations and interventions in his classroom. Appropriate educational accommodations for students with IEP’s or 504 Plans are mandated by federal law. They do not alter the schoolwork content or give unfair advantages to students. They simply provide altered task participation that allows students to practice, master and be assessed for the same educational objectives. Accommodations should be reasonable to ask of teachers in all classroom settings and should be based upon the student’s grade level and specific type of learning

disability. Academic accommodations can involve materials, interactive instruction and/or student performance. They provide a framework for helping students with learning problems achieve their full potential and may include seating placement away from distractions, shortened class and homework assignments, and individual restating or clarification of instructions. If your child has difficulty learning in school, talk with his

Wee Wisdom Christian Preschool and Academy Now enrolling for 2014-2015 school year!

Looking for a loving preschool where your child can be socially and academically successful? For more information call

402-420-7111

Since 1996, over 2,000 children have experienced Wee Wisdom! Come check us out!

and check us out at: weewisdompreschool.org Look for information on our Summer Camps in the Camp Directory!

Page 6 • lincolnkidsinc.com

ic readers, are additional strategies to bypass learning disability difficulties, as do accommodations. For further information about Kindergarten through College accommodations, contact the Nebraska Dyslexia Association at www.ne-da.org or call (402) 4346434.

Gwelda Carlson of the Nebraska Dyslexia Association shares that Dr. Vautravers, one of the authors, visited with LPS regarding the statistics and need for informing parents of support and accommodations. For the 2013-2014 school year, 13.8% of the LPS students qualified for Special Education (5, 971). Out of those students, 1,813 are identified with a Specific Learning Disability and 778 are identified with Other Health Impairments and 323 students have 504 plans. Most of these are High School students. Information gathered indicate that often parents don't know about 504’s, or that they can request accommodations for their children if they are struggling. Help is available! For more informatioin contact the Nebraska Dyslexia Association at www.ne-da.org or call (402) 434-6434.

Lincoln Kids!

Fun Art Project Idea from the LUX Center for the Arts By Whitney Lee Perry, Community Involvement Manager, LUX Center for the Arts

hen I was growing up my Mom’s go-to antidote for numb winter hands was always a warm cup of cocoa and plenty of paper and markers for coloring. She believed that our creative minds would distract us from our chilled, frigid hands. Trust me, it actually worked! Since then I have always believed that creativity can be a great way to beat the blistering winter blues. Here is a fun winter activity that you and your family can try!

Frozen Winter Ice Sun Catcher! Materials: • Towel • Cake pan • Food coloring • Small plastic cup filled with coins, rocks, or anything to weigh it down. • Ribbon or string.

Step 1: Place the weighted plastic cup a few inches from the outside of the pan. Fill cake pan half way with water and place in freezer for 30 minutes. Step 2: Take pan out of freezer and put drops of food coloring into the pan. Try mixing colors together for a vibrant ornament. Step 3: Place the pan back in the freezer and leave in for 3-4 hour (or until thoroughly frozen) Step 4: Once the ornament is thoroughly frozen, take the pan out of the freezer and wait 15 minutes. Carefully take the ice ornament out of the pan. Step 5: Remove the small plastic cup from the ornament carefully and tie string or ribbon through the hole and hang outdoors! Once you have tried this activity, join us at the LUX—we can show you and your children other ways to get creative. Our second round of spring classes start February 15th and contain new

offerings for both kids and adults. Elementary students can t r y Barnyard Bonanza, a new clay class centered on creating farm creatures in clay! Another exciting class for elementary students is Pop-Up Art, which teaches students exciting ways to create 3D pop-up

cards and other fun activities. Register for classes online at luxcenter.org or call us at (402) 466-8692. LUX Center for the Arts is located in historic University Place at 2601 N. 48th at the corner of 48th and Baldwin in north Lincoln. Free parking available. For information contact Erik Dutcher, Interim Education Director at erik@luxcenter.org.

“Giraffe”, produced at Lux’s Painted Animal Collages Class held at the Highlands Academy

Spring int into to creativit to creativity ty with the LUX!

www.luxc www.luxcenter.org center.org 402.466 6.8692 402.466.8692

Enroll Today T

2601 N 48th SStt

Modern M Masters: asters: Spring Break Brea ak A Camp Art

Eyes, Ears, Eyes Ears and Noses: No oses: Fac ces How to Draw Faces WYPNT-07 4 weeks, Sat., Sat.., Mar. 1-2:3 30pm 22, 29, Apr. 5, 12, 1-2:30pm Ages 5-9 Tuiti on: $52 LUX memb bers Tuition: members (non-members $65 5) $65) Learn to draw realis tic faces! f realistic Each week will focus on different facial featuress and over the course of the class your child will create several se everal portraits. portraits. Beginning artists are welcome! welcome!

WYCAM-0 WYCAM-01: 01: Ages 5-9, Mon.-Fri., 10-14, 9:30am-12:30pm Mar. 10-14, 2: Ages 10-13, Mon.-Fri., WYCAM-02: WYCAM-02 Mar. Mar. 10-14, 2-5pm $10 00 LUX members (non(nonTuition: $100 m $125) members A whirlwind week w of creativity! Children Childre en will work with a different instructor and d d worrks media each day, and explore the works witth arttists. Camp coincides with of modern artists. LPS spring break. LPS

Pizza & Picasso WFAM-06 Thurs., Feb. Feb. 13, 6:30-8pm, Bugs Ceramic Love L WFAM-07 Fri., Feb. Fri., Fe b. 14, 6:30-8pm, Bugs Ceramic Love L WFAM-08 13, 6:30-8pm, WFAM 08 Thurs., Mar. M 6:30 8pm, Painting Pain nting Tuition: $40 per session se ession for up to 4 family members, each ea ach additional $10 We will provide provide th the e pizza and a fun project family-friendly pro ject while you and your loved ones br ring the creativity! bring Space is limited so o reserve your spot ahead of o time.

Where Creativity and Community C Meet! Visitt www.luxcenter.org to see a list of classes and d register online. Spring 2014 Page 7

Lincoln Kids!

Vicki Wood’s Library Picks For Young Readers By Vicki Wood, Youth Services Supervisor, Lincoln City Libraries Bennett Martin Public Library

ooking back over any publishing year, there are always books for youth that stand out as exceptional to reviewers, teachers and librarians. The real test comes when they get into the hands of their intended audience, children. For this article I chose books that garnered critical acclaim in 2013, and have built-in kid appeal. The Dark, Little Brown Books for Young Readers, a picture book collaboration between author Lemony Snicket (A Series of Unfortunate Events) and Jon Klassen (winner of the 2013 Caldecott Medal for This Is Not My Hat) features Laszlo, a young boy with a typical fear of dark places. The Dark is a character of sorts, luring Laszlo to the basement where he discovers, happily, that the dark is not as sinister as it might seem. David Wiesner is the master of visual storytelling. In Mr Wuffles, Clarion Books, Wiesner incorporates sly visual humor into an extraordinary adventure story about a cat that plays mercilessly with a small spaceship full of aliens. When the battle-scarred ship ends up behind the radiator, the aliens join forces with the insects, long suffering fellow combatants of the cat. This book

will delight preschoolers, but slightly older children will find much to love as well, deciphering the alien/insect communication and Wiesner’s detailed humorous tidbits. Nothing is sweeter than a welltold story about the joys of friendship. Philip Stead’s, Hello, My Name is Ruby, Roaring Brook Press, hits the spot as tiny Ruby sets out in search of avian comradery. The artwork is a delight, incorporating color, line and perspective to bring each of the birds to expressive life. Be sure to look for these other clever and beautiful three-star picture books from 2013, One Gorilla: A Counting Book, Candlewick by veteran children’s book author and illustrator, Anthony Browne, a simple, charming wordless book, Inside Outside, Chronicle Books, by Lizzie Boyd and a fractured version of a well-known fairy tale, Little Red Writing, Chronicle Books, by Joan Holub, illustrated by Melissa Sweet. For children new to independent reading, Penny and Her Marble, Greenwillow Books by Kevin Henkes is a little gem of a book, exploring a big moral question from a tiny mouse girl’s perspective. This is the third book in this first reader series. Henkes is a prolific author/illustrator, winner of both the Caldecott and Newbery awards, so it’s no sur-

prise that another of his books, The Year of Billy Miller, Greenwillow Books, made the notables lists. For slightly older readers, this episodic, humorous novel takes readers through a complete year in second-grader Billy’s life as he learns to navigate school conflicts and family life annoyances with grace and new insights about his place in the world. Toon Books has produced a series of graphic first reader and picture books of exceptional quality. Benjamin Bear in Bright Ideas, Toon Books, by Philippe Coudray, like most first readers, relies on a limited vocabulary. Abundant sight gags provide the narrative for these little one page cartoon-like dramas. In The Big Wet Balloon, Toon Books, by Liniers, older sib Matilda convinces Clemmie to come and cavort outside in a thunderstorm. The plot takes a dire turn when Clemmie loses her balloon, but all is well in the end. Kadir Nelson’s luminous picture book biography, Nelson Mandela, Katherine Tegen Books, provides a timely look at Mandela’s lifelong struggle to

defeat apartheid in his native South Africa. Other notable biographies for young people include, You Never Heard of Willie Mays?! Schwartz & Wade, by Jonah Winter, illustrated by Terry Widener, and Brush of the Gods, Schwartz & Wade, by Lenore Look about the life of Wu Daozi, known as one of China’s greatest painters. Among the many outstanding youth non-fiction titles on the notables lists, three about animals stand out for special consideration. Parrots Over Puerto Rico, Lee & Low Books, by Susan Roth and Cindy Trumbore explores the plight of the native parrot, the history of the island and the fight to save these birds from extinction. Scaly Spotted Feathered Frilled: How Do We Know What Dinosaurs Really Looked Like?, HMH Books for Young Readers, by Catherine Thimmesh describes the jobs of paleoartists, those charged with recreating muscle, skin and texture to the models of dinosaurs we see in museums. Finally, Look Up!: BirdWatching in Your Own Backyard, Candlewick, by Annette LeBlanc Cate offers a plethora of playfully presented information about the diversity and biology of birds species commonly seen in most neighborhoods.

For a Refreshing Alternative to Daycare:

Specializing in Squirmers!

Moms & Dads get great haircuts too!

We Accept Debit & Credit Cards!

• All the latest styles for your child • Specially trained children’s stylists • Video games and special play area • Adult haircuts and facial waxing for moms and dads as well. Hours: Monday-Friday 9:30am – 5:45pm

Thea Montessori Child’sSchool View 3341 Pioneers Blvd. Lincoln 402-484-8277 For Ages 18 months to 6 years Suzuki violin lessons

Certified Professional Montessori Teachers Kindergarten Program Certified through Nebraska Department of Education

Honoring Dr. Montessori’s Vision of the Child’s Potential

Saturday 9:00am – 2:45pm

402-484-7866 • 237 S. 70th, Suite 106

Page 8 • lincolnkidsinc.com

Open 7:15 am to 5:45 pm – Part or Full Time Available

Lincoln Kids!

Lincoln Irish Dancers By Henry Ferguson

pring is in the air and so is the infectious Irish music that makes everyone want to dance - and now you can! The Lincoln Irish Dancers are pleased to host two great Irish dance events on Sunday, March 9. An Instructional workshop from 3:30 to 5:30 P.M. at the YWCA and the Annual Spring Irish Social Dance or “Ceili” (KAY-lee) at Auld Recreation Center from 6:30 to 9:00 P.M. All are welcome and no experience is necessary. This is a fun, no-pressure opportunity to give recreational Irish dance a try! Leading the worksop and calling the ceili is Catherine Sherer Bishop from Jackson, Mississippi. Bishop received a Fulbright award to study at the University of Limerick, where she earned her 2nd Masters Degree, which had an emphasis in Irish Traditional Dance. While undertaking an intensive study of Irish dance and teaching, Catherine earned the T.C.R.G (Irish dance teacher certification) from the Irish Dancing Commission in Dublin. Bishop returns to Lincoln having led workshops locally a decade ago. She also choreographed a combined group of Lincoln Irish Dancers and Jackson Irish Dancers in performances at the North Texas Irish Fest in 2005 and 2006. Bishop’s Traditional Irish

March 9, 2014, Irish Dance Workshop/Dance Held at the YWCA on O and 26th street from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. Then join the Irish Social Dance (Ceili) at the Auld Recreation Center in Antelope Park (1650 Memorial Drive) from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Professional Caller and Teacher, Catherine Sherer Bishop of Jackson, MS will be calling. The Band is Miles from Dublin of Kearney, NE Cost of the Workshop is $10 for Adults, $5 for Students with a $30 Family cap. Cost of the Irish Social Dance (Ceili) is $10 for Adults, $5 for Students with $30 Family Cap.

Dance workshop is suitable for general audiences of all ages. Previous irish dancing experience is NOT required for either event. Social dances including ceili and/or set dancing will be taught and called. These dances are the ancestors of Appalachian contra dances and country square dances. The music and dances consist of reels, jigs, waltzes, hornpipes, polkas, and slides. The required footwork is minimal, executing it perfectly is not necessary for participation in and

enjoyment of the dances. Irish dancing is great fun and terrific exercise, and there is no need to memorize dance sequences, as they will be ‘called’. Miles from Dublin will provide the live and lively music for the Ceili Sunday evening. The band was formed in 2009, but all four members have been playing Irish music together for more than nine years. They are: Aaron Svoboda B o d h r a n ,

Percussion, Vocals; Tim Sharkey Guitar, Vocals; Mike Metzger Mandoline, Bouzouki, Banjo; and Breg Tesdall - Flute, Whistles, Saxophone, Melodica, Vocals. Their goal is “to learn as much Irish music as we can and to perform it with energy, cleanliness, and heart.” For more information, go to lincolnirishdancers.org or phone 402-742-0477.

Irish Music Concert March 9th Greenblatt & Seay’s Schoolhouse Performance Series features a concert of Irish music on Sunday, March 9 at 2:30 p.m., in the Old Avoca, Nebraska Schoolhouse. Greenblatt & Seay 9 will be singing and playing a variety of instruments, including fiddle, pennywhistle, folk harp, guitar, hammered dulcimer, and recorders. Traditional Irish tunes will be featured, along with some Greenblatt & Seay originals inspired by the great Irish traditions. Location is in Avoca in southern Cass County, Nebraska, on the 13 C Spur, one mile south of Highway 34. Admission $10 for adults, $5 for students and senior citizens, and $1 for children. Seating is limited. Call 402-275-3221, or e-mail them at debby@greenblattandseay.com

Treasure Island Drama Camp! A Spring Break adventure for youth K-8TH Grade. Cast away to Westminster’s 3rd annual full-week Drama Camp! This year’s production is Treasure Island. Produced in partnership with Missoula Children’s Theatre, the nations largest touring children’s theater group! Theater topics include: characterization, music, staging, movement, and more! The week concludes with two swash-buckling performances where your children will transform into your favorite characters–right before your eyes! March 10-14 (Mon- Fri) Space is limited! Register before March 1 for $125. 9 am – 3:30 pm Late registration after March 1 is $150. T-shirt & two tickets to the show on March 15 are included.

(40¢ extra)

$1.99 Kids Meals Every Day 5–8 p.m. with adult purchase.

Contact Betsy Guyer

402-475-6702 ext. 107 betsy@westminsterlincoln.org

2110 Sheridan Blvd. • westminsterlincoln.org Spring 2014 Page 9

Lincoln Kids!

New Year, New Beginnings By Miss Flowers, Education Director, Lincoln Children’s Museum

new year brings a fresh start and a promise for good things to come. This year brings something extra special for me, a new journey as the Education Director for the Lincoln Children’s Museum. Residing in Lincoln for the past decade, I have spent time getting to know some of the education networks in Lincoln. I’ve had the honor to work for Lincoln Parks and Recreation, Sheldon Museum of Art and LUX Center for the Arts. What excites me most about settling down at Lincoln Children’s Museum is the mission that invites children to create, discover, and learn—all through the power of play. Even now, I can remember the people who encouraged me to be creative and play as I was growing up. My

kindergarten teacher, Mrs. Smith, who dressed in costume no matter the time of year; she would show up to class as a duck and other fanciful creatures just to make her students smile. And my mom, a Jill-of-alltrades who has inspired my love of painting, quilting and baking. In my new role at the Children’s Museum, I hope to foster creativity; inspire imagination; and encourage our young people to experiment and play—just like my mom and my kindergarten teacher did for me. Join us, and promote the power of play in your family with our elementary camps, or our Preschool Play Days. Even the littlest ones can be involved at the Museum with our Toddler Team Up, parent and child programs. We have an exciting year of programming, and I can’t wait to see what the year has in store! For more information, please visit lincolnchildrensmuseum.org or call 402-477-4000.

Does Your Child Have a Future in S.T.E.M.? By Andrea Curtis, program manager for YWCA Lincoln’s SMART Girls Club

hildren, boys and girls, are innately curious about the world around them. They enjoy making goopy ooblek, building awesome catapults, and taking apart household appliances to find out how they work. These activities are not just fun; they are essential to engaging children in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM). Preparing young people for STEM careers is critical for America’s economic future. U.S. Department of Labor workforce projections for 2018 show that nine of the 10 fastestgrowing occupations that require at least a bachelor’s degree will require significant scientific or mathematical training. STEM careers are the highest growing fields and have the most potential for increased income. As the program manager for YWCA Lincoln’s SMART Girls Club, my goal is to engage girls in STEM subjects. STEM careers have the highest growth and potential income, yet girls today may miss out on the

Trusted by parents all over the world, Kindermusik classes provide the very best in early childhood music and movement experiences. Learn how music and movement can nurture your young child’s mind and body!

opportunity to be apart of these careers. Women continue to be underrepresented in many STEM fields, especially engineering, physics, and computer science. Through after school clubs and camps, SMART Girls Club empowers girls to pursue STEM careers. So how can you encourage your children in STEM subjects? Explain to your children that through practice and effort their performance in any subject can be improved. Provide building toys to help girls and boys develop their spatial skills. Enroll your children in STEM after school clubs and summer camps. Ask questions about the way the world works and encourage your children to ask questions. Find out the answers together. YWCA Lincoln offers SMART Girls Club after school at 15 middle and elementary schools. STEM focused summer camps include CSI Camp, WaterBotics, and Crazy Concoctions for grades 3rd through 8th grades. Find out more by visiting YWCALincoln.org or contacting Andrea Curtis at 402-4343494 or andrea@ywcalincoln.org.

Songs, movement activities, stories and more for children ages 0-7.

Call for a free demonstration class!

Shawna Gordon, Director 402-770-1486 www.kindermusikoflincoln.com

Page 10 • lincolnkidsinc.com

Lincoln Kids!

The Scientific Process on the Way to School By Lindsay Rogers, Wildlife Education Specialist for the

ou do it every day. You may not realize it, but you perform the scientific process every day. And, so do your kids! In fact, when we look at the scientific process, it is simply the way we solve most problems. And, it is the way we learn! So, let’s take a moment to look at the scientific process: 1. Make an observation... The copy machine is broken. 2. Ask a question... Why is the copy machine broken? 3. Do some background research... There does not seem to be a jam in the copier and the toner is full. 4. Construct a hypothesis... The copy machine is out of paper. 5. Test your hypothesis by doing an experiment... Open the paper drawer to check the paper level. 6. Analyze your data and draw a conclusion... The copy machine was out of paper, add paper. 7. Share your results... Tell everyone in the office that the copier is fixed. When we really start to look at the scientific process, it is simply

our means of problem solving. And, as parents we need to encourage our children to be able to solve problems. According to a 2013 national survey by the American Association of Colleges and Universities, 93% of business leaders surveyed believe, “a demonstrated capacity to think critically, communicate clearly, and solve complex problems is more important than (a candidate’s) undergraduate major.” And, while fixing the copy machine is not a complex problem, it does serve a point: no matter where your child’s future takes them, they will need quality critical thinking and problem solving skills. Additionally, the scientific process is the primary way in which children learn. Again, let’s look at the scientific process: 1. Make an observation... When I drop something off my highchair, the dog eats it. 2. Ask a question... Will the dog eat my broccoli? 3. Do some background research... The dog eats my carrots, peaches and hamburger. 4. Construct a hypothesis... The dog will eat my broccoli. 5. Test your hypothesis... Drop your broccoli off your highchair and wait for the dog to come over.

Winter/Spring Swimming Lessons Sessions:

Warm Water & Good Times!

#1) #2) #3) #4)

Registration Begins:

Feb 17 – Mar 6 Mar 17 – April 10 April 14 – May 1 May 12 – 29

Feb 4 Feb 25 April 1 April 22

Analyze your data and draw a conclusion... The dog did not eat my broccoli. Dogs do not like broccoli. 7. Share your results... Point to your broccoli now on the floor. Scream! The same principle is used when a child (or adult) is learning nearly everything! We make observations, ask questions, try things, try them in a different way when they don’t work. Over and over. And, from this process of experimentation, we explore, we learn, we grow. As parents, we have a responsibility to help our children explore, wonder, learn. And, yes, discover the scientific process. I am not proposing that you work together to solve the plight of pollinators, but simply help them to make observations. In the car on the way to school, point out the flock of birds you see flying overhead.

Enrolling for 2014-2015 Westminster Preschool is a N.A.E.Y.C. accredited developmental learning program where children enjoy a safe nurturing environment with a small 1-8 teacher-student ratio. Art activities, stories and songs, large motor activities and learning centers allow children to grow spiritually, emotionally, socially, physically and intellectually. Contact Suzanne Schneider

402-475-6702 ext. 103 Classes are taught Monday/Wednesday or Tuesday/Thursday at 4:30 pm and 5:30 pm

52nd & Stockwell 402-486-2525

Or, mention the crane lifting a heavy load as you pass a construction site. Ask questions. I wonder why the birds are all flying together? Where do you think they are going? How do you think that crane is able to lift such a heavy load? Do you think people would be able to do that? And, best of all is doing the background research. Go to the library and read a book about birds. Check out a book on construction sites. Reading with your child will help develop their sense of wonder and curiosity – the skills necessary for critical thinking and problem solving. Plus, reading with your child is always a good chance to learn together. Even if you only do the first three steps of the scientific process – making observations, asking questions, and doing background research – you will be setting your child up for a life-long love of learning and putting them on the path to success in school and career. And so while your child’s never ending series of “why” questions may be exhausting, it is important to encourage it. Ask them “why” questions! And, most importantly, enjoy the process of making observations, asking questions, wondering, pondering, and even taking the time to learn the answer!

We also book the best priced birthday pool parties in town.

Call us today!

suzanne@westminsterlincoln.org or visit our website at:

wpslincoln.org

Open House and Registration for Summer & the 2014-2015 School year is Thursday January 23, at 6:00pm

Preschool AM Classes: 9–11:30 am PM Classes: 12:30-3 pm Pre-K: 9 am-3 pm Extended Care is Available from 7:30-9:00am and 3:00-5:30pm

Conveniently located at 2110 Sheridan Blvd. Spring 2014 Page 11

Lincoln Kids!

St. Joseph School Participates in National Study By Monica Henkenius

t. Joseph School in Lincoln is one of only 320 schools nationwide selected to participate in a reading comprehension study sponsored by the U.S. Department of Education and the University of Nebraska. The “Language Reading Research Consortium (LARRC)” is a study

whose goal is to improve reading comprehension and apply the lessons learned to classrooms nationwide. Arizona State University, The Ohio State University, the University of Kansas and Lancaster University, (UK) are also sponsoring the study. Research has shown that 25% 33% of children in grades 4-8 struggle with reading comprehension. LARRC is an effort to address the challenges of reading comprehension and to learn what effective reading comprehension looks like. LARRC seeks to find

effective classroom techniques and practices, develop resources for sharing best practices, and improve reading comprehension in schools nationwide. St. Joseph School has participated in this unique program since the start of the 2013-2014 school year. To address reading comprehension issues and challenges, students in Pre-Kindergarten are receiving specialized lessons and curriculum supplements designed to improve language skills important to reading comprehension. Student progress is monitored

throughout the year with periodic assessments. St. Joseph was invited to take part in the study in part because it’s Pre-K class meets five times a week. Pre-school classrooms are located in the school which educates more than 500 students in grades K-8. St. Joseph School is pleased to take part in this study, which complements its strong academic and faith based curriculum. For more information about St. Joseph School contact the office at 402489-0341 or visit our wesite at: http://school.stjosphlnk.org.

FREE Community Tax Preparation Services

ith tax season just around the corner it is never too early to begin thinking about where you

Page 12 • lincolnkidsinc.com

are going to go to get your taxes filed. As the countdown to the filing season approaches, consider utilizing FREE community tax preparation services through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. VITA offers tax preparation to low-to-moderateincome individuals and households in Lancaster and Saunders Counties at no cost. Tax preparation includes both state and federal electronic filing. VITA operates sites at several convenient locations throughout the City of Lincoln from January through April 2014. Library-based sites can file tax returns for taxpayers who earned up to $52,000 in 2013. The 210 O St. location can file tax returns for taxpayers who earned up to $59,000 or assist those taxpayers to file their own returns through the website: www.myfreetaxes.com/lincolncap Consider that you may be eligible for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) – a refundable federal income tax credit for lowincome working individuals and families. The credit reduces the amount of federal tax owed and can result in a refund check. ‘When the EITC exceeds the amount of taxes owed, it results in a tax refund to qualified taxpayers.

Income and family size determine the amount of the EITC. E I T C may mean a larger refund for you if you meet the qualifying rules, and your earned income is less than: • $46,227 ($51,567 married filing jointly) with three or more qualifying children • $43,038 ($48,378 married filing jointly) with two qualifying children

• $37,870 ($43,210 married filing jointly) with one qualifying child • ($19,680 married filing jointly) with no qualifying children For information regarding the dates, times, and locations of VITA sites across Lincoln please visit our local website at: communityactionatwork.org and click on “Free Tax Prep” on the home page, or stop by Community Action at 210 ‘O’ Street for a printed site schedule. For more information on EITC eligibility and other tax questions, visit the IRS website at irs.gov or call 800829-1040. Events and Dates to Remember:

“Paper Curls” by Kaia Anderson, age 13, Lancaster Learning Link/Art Planet

Titanoboa Exhibit: Morrill Hall February 22 Kidz Closet Consignment Sale March 27-30 Snow White Spring Ballet March 28-29 Neat Repeatz Consignment Sale April 3-6 Gem and Mineral Show April 5-6 Lincoln Children’s Zoo Opens April 9th Take 2 Consignment Sale April 10-13 Early Childhood Celebration April 12th

Lincoln Kids!

Early Childhood Celebration By Janeen Ward, LAEYC President

ne child eagerly runs to a table filled with soil and live worms. A group of children work together to build a tower of blocks. A boy enters the room, excitedly talking to his friend about the fire truck they saw parked outside. Children dance and move to music while watching the stage performance. All of these things and more happen every year at the Early Childhood Celebration in Lincoln. The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) celebrates the Week of the Young Child every year in April to focus public attention on the needs of young children and their families and to recognize the early childhood programs and services that meet those needs. This annual event is for families with children birth through age 8. It is on April 12 and will be held in the gymnasium at Southeast Community College, 8800 O Street.

Participants consist of child care providers, students, local agency staff, or others who are interested in investing in the lives of young children. Booths encourage children to experience developmentally appropriate hands-on activities that engage childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s natural curiosity to learn. Information about local programs will be made available. Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s artwork will be displayed throughout the area. Parents and providers who bring children to the event will walk away with new ideas about free or inexpensive ways to encourage childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s healthy physical, cognitive, or social development. Stage performances and an awards ceremony are also part of the day. Check out this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Early Childhood Celebration on Saturday, April 12. Hours are 9:00 a.m.to 1:00 p.m. and will be held in the Gymnasium at Southeast Community College, 8800 O Street. See the ad on page 5!

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402-441-6789

1225 â&#x20AC;&#x153;Fâ&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Fâ&#x20AC;? SSt., t., 68508

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402-441-8480

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402-441-4601

Irving Irving

K-2, K--2, 3-4, 5-7

2010 Van Van Dorn Dorn St., St., 68502

402-441-7954

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Spring 2014 Page 13

Lincoln Kids!

There’s Enough for Everyone

ne of Lincoln’s newest businesses believes there is enough to go around for everyone, and they are counting on you to believe that, too. Meet Social Storehouse – a Random Acts of Kindness Network and its owners, Michael and Kathy Collins. Mike and Kathy are both 20-year residents of Lincoln and have always volunteered their time for causes that catch their attention. They created Social Storehouse as a family project and a way to invest in the most important thing we have, human capital. “Kathy and I have more than we need and we walk by things in our garage and house that we haven’t used in years. We started thinking how silly that was and how easy it would be to simply donate those items to someone

who needed them more than us,” said Mike. “The truth is,” he said, “sometimes you need to give and sometimes you need to take.” Social Storehouse is set up to help you, whether you own something you don’t use or want any more or if you’re in need of something, via the website, www.socialstorehouse.com. There isn’t much to it. Snap a picture. Upload the photo. Provide a description. Pay a $3 administration fee. There, you’re done with the hard part – your item is in the Storehouse and searchable! Some of the most needed items include blankets & bedding, coats, gloves, hats, backpacks, baby clothes, toys, gift cards, and cellular minutes.

Westminster Preschool Makes Summer Vacation Bible School June 16-20, 9am-noon

“Special”

Fee:$30 p/p with a family max of $90. (Register before May 15th for $25 p/p with a family max of $75!)

Quality Christ-based programs.

Late fee is $35 p/p Ages: 3 years – 5th grade Before & After Extended Care Available Regular reistration is May 16- June 1

Creative Arts Camp

Summer Preschool Classes

July: 14-18 9am-noon Ages: K-5th grade $40 per child, $90 max. per family After June 15 cost is $45/$100

May 27 – August 1 9–11:30 am or 9–3 pm Ages: 3-6 Extended Care 7:30–9 am / 3–5:30 pm

Art projects, music, movement, in a world travel theme! Classes are led by experts in each area. Before & After Extended Care Available

Contact Suzanne Schneider

402-475-6702 ext. 103

M-F between 7:30am–5:30pm suzanne@westminsterlincoln.org

Visit our website at: wpslincoln.org

Conveniently located at 2110 Sheridan Blvd. Page 14 • lincolnkidsinc.com

The Collins’ have a goal to initially stock the storehouse with 10 donations and/or 10 need requests from each state and they’re depending on interested parties to spread the news about their network via social media channels and by liking their Facebook and Twitter pages. “Tell everyone you can!” said Kathy, “The storehouse will never get too full!”

Finding strength in the bible verse Malachi 3:10, “Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the LORD Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it.” - Social Storehouse believes there’s enough to go around for everyone. Do you?

FREE Healthcare Profession Exploration Day for Kids March 1st Have you ever thought about becoming a nurse or working in the field of heath care? Bryan College of Health Sciences uses a variety of fun, state-of-the-art learning tools to train future nurses, sonographers, nurse anesthesiologists and more. This unique event offers an opportunity for kids up to age 12 to explore the nursing skills lab, ultrasound machines, biomedical sciences, and learn more about how the human body works. You won’t want to miss this! Parents are asked to stay onsite and participate in his event with their children. Cost is Free. Location: Bryan College of Health Sciences, 5035 Everett St. March 1st from 10–11:00 AM. Call: 402-481-8886 or go online to bryanhealth.org/calendar

Lincoln Kids!

Help Kids Develop Contagious Smiles Submited by Ameritas

childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s toothy smile can be contagious, communicating joy and happiness. Likewise, the lack of a smile also may express unhappiness, frustration or discontentment. Often kids with oral health concerns are reluctant to smile or laugh because of pain or embarrassment.

Facing a Lifetime of Oral Health Problems Tooth decay has become one of the most common health issues kids face today. It is one of the most common diseases of childhood: five times as common than asthma and seven times as common as hay fever or bronchitis.

Review these facts: â&#x20AC;˘ Nearly six out of 10 kids in the United States have cavities, and about 25 percent have untreated decay in their permanent teeth. â&#x20AC;˘ The root system from baby teeth helps lay the foundation for permanent teeth. â&#x20AC;˘ Kids with damaged teeth from cavities at a young age may experience a lifetime of tooth and gum problems. â&#x20AC;˘ More than 80 percent of tooth decay in kids occurs on the chewing surfaces of teeth; dental sealants are a viable solution to

protecting these teeth. â&#x20AC;˘ Nearly all children and teens have gingivitis, the precursor to a periodontal disease. If left untreated, the disease eventually can advance to more serious oral concerns that can require extensive dental treatment and care, including emergency room visits, hospitalizations and delayed physical development. â&#x20AC;˘ Due to aching teeth and gums, kids often experience discomfort when eating, have problems sleeping and struggle to listen and learn at school. Nationally, kids lose more than 51 million school hours each year due to dental-related illness.

first tooth appears. Plan ongoing appointments for checkups and cleanings as directed by your dentist. â&#x20AC;˘ Healthy eating â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Make sure kids consume nutritious foods and drinks that are low in sugar. Avoid snacks and sweet drinks in the evening after your child has brushed and flossed.

February is National Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dental Health Month During February, Ameritas is partnering with several organizations to educate families on the importance of taking care of their teeth and gums to ensure good oral health. Look for activities at the Lincoln Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Museum, Lincoln City Libraries, University of Nebraska College of Dentistry, Lincoln Public Schools and Barnes & Noble bookstores.

Make Good Oral Health a Habit! Parents and caregivers can help kids develop a lifetime of good oral health habits. Here are some good dental habits to teach kids: â&#x20AC;˘ Tooth brushing and flossing â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Parents should encourage kids to brush their teeth for at least two minutes after breakfast and before bedtime. Floss teeth at least once each day to remove food trapped between teeth and under gums.

This Little piggy ... Went to babyworks for the cutest shoes in town! Â&#x201D;Â&#x2039;Â?Â&#x2030; Â&#x2013;Â&#x160;Â&#x2039;Â&#x2022; Â&#x2026;Â&#x2018;Â&#x2014;Â&#x2019;Â&#x2018;Â? Â&#x2039;Â? Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2018;Â&#x201D;

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LINCOLN PEDIATRIC GROUP, LLC

William P. Swisher, M.D., F.A.A.P. Douglas D. Ebers, M.D., F.A.A.P. Jeffrey J. David, M.D., F.A.A.P. Kurstin L. Friesen, M.D., F.A.A.P. Michael J. Germer, M.D., F.A.A.P. Kay L. Anderson, M.D., F.A.A.P. Joel A. Greisen, M.D., F.A.A.P. Jason J. Davis, M.D., F.A.A.P. Heather A. Dews, M.D., F.A.A.P. Carrie A. Dell, M.D., F.A.A.P. Dallas D. Schlegel, PA-C Julie E. Timme, PA-C Becky D. Waegli, PA-C Michael J. Huckabee, PA-C Valerie A. Vernon, PA-C Kevin J. Carstensen, PA-C

Office Hours Mondayâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Thursday 8 am-7:00 pm Friday 8 am-4:30 pm Saturday 8 am-2:00 pm Sunday 12:30 pm-4:30 pm

Lincoln Pediatric Group, LLC â&#x20AC;˘ 402-489-3834

ÇĄ Â&#x192;Â?Â&#x2020; Č&#x2039; Â&#x2021;Â&#x2122;Â&#x201E;Â&#x2018;Â&#x201D;Â? Â&#x2013;Â&#x160;Â&#x201D;Â&#x2018;Â&#x2014;Â&#x2030;Â&#x160; Â&#x2026;Â&#x160;Â&#x2039;Â&#x17D;Â&#x2020;ÇŻÂ&#x2022; Â&#x2022;Â&#x2039;Â&#x153;Â&#x2021; Í?Č&#x152; Â&#x161;Â&#x2019;Â&#x2039;Â&#x201D;Â&#x2021;Â&#x2022; Â&#x2019;Â&#x201D;Â&#x2039;Â&#x17D; Í&#x203A;Í&#x2DC;ÇĄ Í&#x161;Í&#x2DC;Í&#x2122;Í&#x153;

â&#x20AC;˘ Make brushing fun â&#x20AC;&#x201C; To encourage kids to develop good habits, purchase a tooth brush with a favorite cartoon character or color and floss or floss picks in flavors and fun colors. â&#x20AC;˘ First tooth, first year, first dental visit â&#x20AC;&#x201C; The American Dental Association recommends that parents schedule their childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first dental visit at age 1 or when the

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www.lincolnpedsgroup.com Spring 2014 Page 15

Lincoln Kids!

Are Tantrums Normal? By Anita K. Lovell, MA, LMHP, CPC, Adultspan Counseling

ou have plans to go out for supper and get family pictures. Five minutes before you need to head out the door in order to be on time, your child throws a â&#x20AC;&#x153;fitâ&#x20AC;? because they want to wear a different pair of shoes that do not match. You are tired of the constant meltdowns; whining, yelling, screaming, name calling, threats, etc. Parents may think a 3-yearoldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s frequent tantrums are normal in early childhood. But new research shows daily tantrums only occur in less than 9 percent of preschool children, regardless of gender, socioeconomic status, or ethnicity (Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 2012). Researchers say daily tantrums could be signs of behavioral problems that should be

addressed before they escalate. In the National Institute of Mental Healthfunded study, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine researchers surveyed nearly 1,500 parents of preschoolers ages 3 to 5 about their childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s behavior. While 84 percent of parents reported their children occasionally had tantrums, approximately nine percent reported daily outbursts. So if your child is throwing tantrums daily, maybe it is not as normal as you once thought? Are there other factors that could be affecting your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s behavioral and mental health? The answer is yes! Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) is an empirically-

supported treatment for young children with emotional and behavioral disorders that place emphasis on improving the quality of the parent-child relationship and changing parent-child interaction patterns. For very young children ages 26, you can avoid some of the behaviors you have been experiencing by incorporating daily positive parent-child interactions by using the P.R.I.D.E skills: â&#x20AC;˘ Praise- Give your child Labeled Praises for positive behavior â&#x20AC;˘ Reflection- Reflect your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s appropriate talk â&#x20AC;˘ Imitation- Imitate your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s appropriate play â&#x20AC;˘ Description- Describe the positive things your child is doing â&#x20AC;˘ Enjoy the special time with your child These P.R.I.D.E skills can assist in empowering parents to make changes that will lead to a nurturing and secure relationship with their children resulting in increased positive behaviors. Using these skills could result in fewer tantrums, helping you be on time to those family pictures. It is not worth the hassle or embarrassment. If you want to learn more about behavior management in very young children due to an overabundance of meltdowns and fit throwing, please contact a licensed mental health practitioner

today. At AdultSpan Counseling, Anita K. Lovell, MA, LMHP, specializes in behavioral pediatrics working with children 2-18 years old with various mental and behavioral health needs to including tantrumming and other related behaviors. Please call 402-3250117 ext 3 to schedule an appointment.

2012

CEDARS CEDAR RS School Age e SUMMER DA DAY AY CA CAMP AMP W ednesday, May 28 - Friday, Friday, August A Wednesday, 8 Monday - Friday, Friday, 7:00 am - 6:00 6::00 pm at Hartley Elementary Sch hool School (730 N 33rd St)

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For more inform information mation or to register, registerr, contact co ontact Amara at 402-770-8606 402-77 70-8606 www.cedarskids.org w ww.cedarskidss.org

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Lincoln Kids!

Kids’ Vision Affects Learning and Performance Submitted by Ameritas

Eye Examination Recommendations

The AOA recommends that ids live in a visual world. children receive their first eye Nearly 80 percent of what exam by age 1, the next one when they learn through age 12 they are 3 years old and another is visual, and kids need more than 15 March is National Save visual skills to sucYour Vision Month ceed in reading, Throughout March, Ameritas is partnering with several organlearning, playing izations to educate families on the importance of taking care of sports activities and their eyes and to ensure good vision health. Look for programs in everyday situa- and activities at the Lincoln Children’s Museum, Lincoln City Libraries, Lincoln Children’s Zoo and Barnes & Noble. tions. Seeing 20/20 is just one of those before starting kindergarten. After skills, according to the American that, students should have a yearly Optometric Association. comprehensive examination to The most common vision probevaluate their total vision—not lems in children are refractive just a screening to check their errors, such as nearsightedness, ability to see. farsightedness or astigmatism. Unfortunately, one in four schoolIdentifying Potential age kids has vision problems that, if left untreated, can hinder their Vision Problems ability to learn and negatively Consider the following signs affect their personality and perthat a child may be experiencing a formance in school. vision problem:

• Complains frequently about headaches or tired eyes • Avoids activities that require near vision, such as reading or homework • Avoids activities that require distance vision, including participation in sports or play activities • Sits too close to the TV or holds a book close to the face • Loses place or skips words while reading • Uses a finger to guide eyes when reading • Squints or tilts head to see better • Rubs eyes frequently • Closes one eye to read, watch TV or see better • Writes uphill or downhill • Finds it difficult to copy material from the chalkboard

Studies by the National Institutes of Health and the National Eye Institute have discovered that more than 60 percent of students with learning problems have undiagnosed vision abnormalities that contribute to their difficulties. If any vision warning signs are detected, schedule an appointment with an eye care professional for a comprehensive examination to evaluate the child’s vision and identify treatment options, if needed.

Bowling, Birthdays and More.....!

BOWLING BIRTHDAY PARTIES

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Discover Lincoln’s HIDDEN FUN SPOT . Individual or group rates. Party area and game room available. All new AMF auto-scoring system the whole family will enjoy! Call us today for the details.

Lanes ‘N Games Home of the 2013 NCAA Women’s Bowling Champions Nebraska East Union located on UNL-East Campus

402-472-1751

Closed for Spring Break: March 22–31 and Summer: May 9–August 25

Spring 2014 Page 17

Lincoln Kids!

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Every day, children are turned away from the opportunity to live in a safe, loving home due to a lack of

foster families in our community. Please consider providing a foster home for kids in our community. Foster Parents Receive: t IPVS TVQQPSU EBZT B XFFL t .POUIMZ DPNQFOTBUJPO t 4QFDJBMJ[FE USBJOJOH $BMM .JDIBFMB UPEBZ PS WJTJU PVS website for more information about becoming a foster parent. www.cedarskids.org | 402-434-5437

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Lincoln Kids!

Keeping Kids Fit, Healthy, and Ready to Learn By Bob Rauner, MD, MPH Director of the Partnership for a Healthy Lincoln

tudies showing the strong link between physical fitness and academic achievement have been a major development in recent years. A steady stream of research is showing a strong link between a student’s physical fitness and ability to learn. These studies range from the effect of simple calisthenics on retaining a daily lesson to strong associations with aerobic fitness and performance on state reading and math tests. Last year we teamed up with Lincoln Public Schools on a research study which was published in the Journal of Pediatrics (www.jpeds.com/content/JPEDSR auner). The study showed that our students who passed the district

aerobic fitness test were much more likely to pass the Nebraska State tests on math and reading. The effect was strong and consistent regardless of gender, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status. There are basically three opportunities for elementary students to have physical activity during the school day: physical education class (the most effective), recess, and classroom activities. Unfortunately, physical education time has fallen dramatically since many of us adults were in school. We are now at a point where most of our elementary schools provide less than half of the 150 minutes of weekly physical education recommended by the Institute of Medicine to maintain minimum levels of health for our children. Some elementary

students have physical education class only once every seven school days. So, we know that physical education makes students fit, healthy, and ready to learn. Why aren’t we changing the school curriculum? There are three main reasons - No Child Left Behind prioritization of reading and math time, a short school day, and lack of adequate gym space. Fears of not meeting adequate yearly progress on math and reading scores have led to an increase in curriculum time for students struggling in math and reading at the expense of time for other areas such as physical education. We are now realizing that cutting physical education time to make room for more math and reading time is likely counterproductive. Another problem is the short length of our elementary school

day which is only 6 hours and 38 minutes long. With our current allotment of math and reading minutes, this doesn’t leave much time available for other coursework that is also important for our children’s development such as art, music, and physical education. However, even if we had the time, many of our elementary and middle schools simply don’t have the available gym space. The reason our elementary school with the least amount of weekly physical education is so low, is because the gym space built for the school is only half the amount needed for the size of the school. Given these new developments, it is time for our community and school system to start working on ways to get more physical activity and physical education into the school day to benefit both our children’s health and their academic performance!

Spring 2014 Page 19

Lincoln Kids!

Creative Ways to Avoid Cabin Fever By Gretchen M. Garrison

hen I had four kids under the age of six, at times the size of my house seemed to shrink. As my youngest was born in late fall, cold weather was quickly upon us, so we were often stuck inside those four walls. Occasionally the sun would shine, the temperature would rise a bit, and I would want to find some place to go. Still too cold for outdoor activities, what was a mom to do? I am happy to report that there are three great indoor options where your child can not only be amused but also practice being creative. Very little notice is even required for you to participate!

Art Planet This is “your station for imagination.” A home studio in Southeast Lincoln, Art Planet

classes are offered for a wide variety of ages, skills and abilities. For the younger set, monthly Preschool Paint-n-Play is a wonderful option. Featuring storybased projects, little ones ages 2 to 5 will sculpt, collage, paint or create for only $10 per session. These classes take place on the middle Wednesday mornings of the month from 9:15 to 10a.m. You do need to reserve a spot two days in advance. For more information, you can contact Instructor Tamara Kaye at 402-610-2295 or visit artplanetlincoln.com.

Paint Yourself Silly offers much more than just pottery. The South Lincoln location has weekly programs for young kids. On Tuesday mornings at 10:30a.m., kids can attend “Preschool Storytime.” After listening to a book, the kids get to complete a corresponding project that matches the book. The cost varies each week depending on the chosen project but usually is between $15-20. One item of importance: what the children will complete is predetermined, so the cost of the studio time is included. You are welcome to stay and paint any item you choose for a set perhour fee afterwards! No pre-registration for story time is required. For more information, you can call 402-486-1010 or check them out on their website at: paintyourselfsilly.net. Many a mom has taken the kids to the

Lincoln Children’s Museum when she wanted to get out of the house. But unless you are a frequent museum visitor, you may

not be aware of some of the extra options that are available for younger ones. “Smock Tales” is free with museum admission on Wednesday mornings from 10a.m. to noon. A particular story is read both at 10a.m. and 11a.m., then corresponding projects are completed by the children. Moms can enjoy talking to other moms during the experience, and children can interact with others while they create. The bonus part: the mess stays at the museum. If that morning does not work for you, “Tuesday Mom’s Club” is another great option. While sipping on coffee and munching on treats, moms get to converse on various parent issues, such as handling tantrums, as well just enjoying adult conversation. Since the children are playing nearby, Moms can still indirectly supervise their preschoolers while getting a break. For more information on either one of these two programs, you can call 402-477-4000 or go to: lincolnchildrensmuseum.org. Want to learn about more places to see and people to know across Nebraska? You can follow Gretchen on her blog: www.odysseythroughnebraska.w ordpress.com

Teaching, nurturing, and developing the future... one child at a time. • • • •

Educational Focus Ages 6wks–12 years Individual Attention M–F 6:30am–6:00pm

• Video Security • Year-round Preschool • Summer Programs • Locally Owned

Three convenient locations 630 N. Cotner Blvd., Ste #200, 402-465-4769 7301 S. 15th St., 402-421-7301 6021 S. 56th St. 402-420-5440 www.aacdc.com Page 20 • lincolnkidsinc.com

Lincoln Kids!

www.ta4k.com A series of theatre workshops for ages 7-15!

Winter Wows A Dramatic Valentine IMPROV WORKSHOP Instructor Leah Arington Friday, February 14th 6pm-9pm $25

Right to Fight STAGE COMBAT WORKSHOP Instructor, Will Cover Saturday, February 22nd 12pm-3pm $25

SPRING FLINGs Broadway Bound MUSICAL THEATRE WORKSHOP Instructor, Leah Arington and Ashleigh Suck Saturday, March 22 10am-3pm, $50

Just Act! ACTING WORKSHOP Instructor, Leah Arington Saturday, April 19 10am-3pm $50

Between the Lines SET PAINTING WORKSHOP Instructor, Jana Sesow Saturdays, March 1st & 8th 10am-3pm $50

First time participants receive 1/2 off all Spring Flings!

Spring Sing VOICE WORKSHOP Instructor, Leah Arington Saturday, May 17 10am-3pm $50

Summer Musical Theatre Workshops OKLAHOMA G2K for ages 7-15 May 27th – June 6th, M-F, 9:30-3:30pm Performance: Friday, June 6th @ 7pm Tuition: $325

PETER PANJr. for ages 7-15 June 23th – July 3rd M-F, 9:30-3:30pm Performance: Thursday, July 3rd @ 7pm Tuition: $325

All classes located at Christ Lutheran Church ~ 4325 Sumner St. Theatre Arts For Kids is a newly formed non-profit organization (501c3) dedicated to providing quality performing arts training to children in the Lincoln and surrounding areas. Scholarship information is available by contacting ta4kinfo@gmail.com.

Spring 2014 Page 21

Lincoln Kids!

Make Fitness Family Fun By Colleen Granger, Director of Youth Services, Lincoln Racquet Club

ou know that getting your children involved in physical activities is vital to their health. You’ve heard there is an obesity epidemic affecting our society and especially our children and you have seen the studies that state parents are expected to outlive their children. You know it is your responsibility as a parent to deter your children from following this trend. You have been bombarded with information on how to get children active and have been given tons of options to choose from. You know you need to start them out young and keep them moving. So, as a super-parent, you sign them up for anything and everything and taxi them from activity to activity and place to place in a never ending race to provide a means with which your children can achieve this “physical fitness”. And in return you have exhausted, worn out children who dislike the activities they once loved,

you have whining and crying (by you and the children) and you are forcing them into the car in a race against time… Every. Single. Night. And then again on weekends.

Does this sound familiar? It seems so many families are giving up their “family” time and mental health in the quest to keep their children active. Let’s sit down and take a deep breath together. (In through the nose, out through the mouth.) There. Much better. De-stress! It’s true that as children get older, many of the demands of school & competitive sports and their schedule cannot be helped. But here are some suggestions to preserve your physical and mental health, as the parent of active children: • Find a family oriented “one stop shop” • Find a facility that offers everything your family could want under one roof. Does this facility have a

secure child care area that promotes activity? Children’s fitness classes? Swim lessons? A full group fitness schedule for adults? Plenty of cardio equipment? Free weights? Pin select weights? Spin? Personal Trainers? Indoor track? Tennis? Racquetball? Batting cages? Basketball Gym? Boot camps? Pilates on the Reformer? • Make physical fitness a family affair • Check schedules and align them so that your family can all go to the gym at one time, spend an hour or two doing your unique activities and classes, and go home as a family. Coordinating your schedules can save you hours a week, hundreds of hours a year, giving you more time to spend doing other fun family activities, or simply doing nothing… or maybe laundry… or picking up after the kids… • Take advantage of discounts and saving through a family membership • Find a facility that offers dis-

kids of summer ‘14 Week long day camps designed to keep your kids learning and active throughout the summer! Monday-Friday | 8am-5pm | Closed July 4 Early Bird Special 5% Discount reg. by march 30th

Multi-Camp Special 5% Discount 5 + camps

$120 Member | $135 Non-member Contact Colleen for more info | (402) 423-2511 colleen@lincolnracquetclub.com Download Registration at lincolnracquetclub.com

counts on extra services. This could save you hundreds! Dad lifts weights and plays racquetball, Mom does Pilates and spin, Johnny does tennis, Sally does Hip Hop, Johnny and Sally do Kickboxing and Swimming lessons, and baby Billy hates sitting through his big brother and sisters classes. Finding a facility that offers them all, includes some in their membership and gives you discounts on others will save this family a lot of money, not to mention they are no longer spending nine hours going in eight different directions with a baby in tow! The act of becoming physically fit should be a way to reduce stress and anxiety, not be a contributor to those conditions. Keep it fun and make it a family affair and it will become a way of life for your children. Do not make it their life; don’t spend all of your time getting from one place to the next. Save time where you can. They will only be young for a little while. You have so much to do with them. Enjoy!

L I N C O L N

RACQUETCLUB Family Health & Fitness 5300 Old Cheney Rd | (402) 423-2511 Lincoln Racquet Club Activities and Classes lincolnracquetclub.com for full class listing & times Kids activities: Children’s Racquetball Tiny Tots tumbling Gym & Swim Kids Yoga

Boogie Ballet Hip Hop Dance Kid’s kickboxing Private & Group tennis Private & Group swim

Adult Classes: Boot Camp BodyCombat BodyFlow BodyPump BodyStep CXworx Core XT Fitness Club 101 Functional Strength / Cardio Circuit H.I.T. Just Abs Kickboxing Mat Pilates

Power Yoga Yoga Step Circuit Synrgy 360 Weight Room Circuit Zumba Aqua Pilates Aqua Cardio Aqua Zumba Aqua Arthritis Aqua Cardio LRC Swim Conditioning Swim Strength Conditioning Cycling 101 Group Cycling

Lincoln Kids!

]RR R VXPPHU VX FDPSV 3-4

YEAR-OLDS + PARENTS $79 MEMBERS | $94 NON-MEMBERS MORNING: 9:30 - 11:30 A.M.

MORNING: 8:30 A.M. - NOON

AFTERNOON: 1:00 - 4:30 P.M.

June 9 - 13

Wake-up the Train

June 2 - 6

Animal Planet

June 2 - 6

Go Wild!

June 16 - 20

Down on the Farm

June 9 - 13

Wild West Wrangler

June 9 - 13

Things with Wings

June 23 - 27

Playful Penguins

June 16 - 20

%HHWOHV %XJV %XWWHUĂ LHV

June 16 - 20

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July 7 - 11

Wake-up the Train

June 16 - 20

Wild West Wrangler

July 21 - 25

A to Zoo

June 23 - 27

Penguin Plunge

June 23 - 27

Feast with Beasts

July 7 - 11

Dr. Zoolittle

July 7 - 11

Penguin Plunge

July 14 - 18

Wild West Wrangler

July 14 - 18

Animal Planet

July 14 - 18

Catch Me If You Can

July 14 - 18

Wild West Wrangler

July 21 - 25

Go Wild!

July 21 - 25

Dr. Zoolittle

July 28 - Aug 1

Critter Keepers

July 28 - Aug 1

%HHWOHV %XJV %XWWHUĂ LHV

4-5

YEAR-OLDS $99 MEMBERS | $119 NON-MEMBERS MORNING: 8:30 A.M. - NOON

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Wake-up the Train

6-7

YEAR-OLDS $99 MEMBERS | $119 NON-MEMBERS

Mission to Madagascar

*SIGN UP FOR A MORNING & AFTERNOON SESSION TO MAKE IT A FULL-DAY CAMP

June 9 - 13

Animal Super Powers

June 9 - 13

Dino Dig

June 16 - 20

Monkey Around

June 16 - 20

Penguins Have Happy Feet

June 23 - 27

Wild Cats

June 23 - 27

Party with the Peacocks

July 7 - 11

Wake-up the Train

July 7 - 11

The Great Disappearing Act

July 14 - 18

Dino Dig

July 14 - 18

Monkey Around

MORNING: 8:30 A.M. - NOON

AFTERNOON: 1:00 - 4:30 P.M.

July 21 - 25

Mission to Madagascar

July 21 - 25

Animal Super Powers

June 2 - 6

Penguin Planet

June 2 - 6

July 28 - Aug 1

Penguins Have Happy Feet

July 28 - Aug 1

Party with the Peacocks

June 16 - 20

Zoo Scene Investigator (ZSI)

June 16 - 20

Penguin Planet

July 7 - 11

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s for Dinner?

July 7 - 11

Go Ape

July 28 - Aug 1

Go Ape!

July 28 - Aug 1

Zoo Grossology

*SIGN UP FOR A MORNING & AFTERNOON SESSION TO MAKE IT A FULL-DAY CAMP

8-10

YEAR-OLDS $99 MEMBERS | $119 NON-MEMBERS

Zoo Grossology

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Animal Care

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Jr. Zookeeper

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YEAR-OLDS $198 MEMBERS | $238 NON-MEMBERS FULL DAY: 8:30 A.M. - 4:30 P.M.

June 9 - 13

Animal Training 101

June 23 - 27

Jr. Zookeeper

July 7 - 11

Animal Care

July 14 - 18

Jr. Zookeeper

July 28 - August 1

Animal Training 101

ADVENTU

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Costa Ric

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Spring 2014 Page 23

Lincoln Kids!

The Importance of ELOs…What are They?

hile it is still debated as to exactly what can give students the best “edge” to succeed in school, new research has shown that Expanded Learning Opportunities (ELOs) are an excellent way to give that extra boost academically. So what are these ELOs exactly? Bright Lights is a great example ELOs are programs that give chil- of a high-quality ELO, and was dren opportunities to learn outside created to allow students to of the standard nine-month school explore subjects that they are year. Research cited at expandin- deeply interested in during a one glearning.org reports that partici- week, half-day class or full-day pation in high-quality ELOs gives camp. students many academic advanOne parent commented, “My tages over their peers, such as higher graduation rates, “Our son LOVED his class, because it was so better work habits, hands on and applicable to real life; he could make improved pro-social connections between what he was learning and behavior with peers, what happens in the world around him. He loved fewer school absences that he had the freedom to delve into a subject that and greater gains in aca- interested him. There was no memorization and demic and behavior out- testing – just natural curiosity. Such combination makes lifelong learners!” comes.

six-year-old thought she was spending a week enjoying Dr. Seuss, but it was so much more than that! She learned about science, math and other subjects in a fun environment. I don’t think she even realized she was learning.” So how does Bright Lights fit the profile of a high quality ELO? • There is a clear mission following a consistent, simple program. • Focused goals are maintained in relation to student learning and frequent class evaluations are conducted, supporting the ongoing improvement of the program. • An array of content-rich programming engages kids to help build their academic and nonacademic skills. • Qualified, well-supported and stable program staff head classes relevant to current students’ interests, and 80-90% of those teachers

return to the program each year. As Bright Lights heads into its 28th summer in 2014 we are grateful to our community partners for our sustained funding and look forward to providing many more years for summer learning adventures! For more information on this program, visit brightlights.org.

“Untitled” from a Birthday Party at Art Planet

For students K–9th grades.

Summer programs created to enlighten, expand and enrich your child’s horizons.

Visit our website today!

The Power of Summer 2014 June 2-6, 16-20 and July 7-11 Registration begins April 1st at noon

www.brightlights.org or 402-420-1115 Page 24 • lincolnkidsinc.com

Lincoln Kids!

SAY HELLO TO SUMMER YMCA CAMP KITAKI

OVERNIGHT CAMPS YMCA Camp Kitaki has summer camp programs for kids ages 7-17. One week sessions begin June 1st and end August 9th! • Summer Camp programs • Ranch Camp programs for kids who love horses! • 1/2 week Adventure Mini Camps for young campers age 7-9 • Two week Leadership Camp programs for teens age 14-17

OUR GOALS YMCA Camp Kitaki strives to provide a safe environment where participants can grow in their: • Relationships • Positive Identity • Values • Skills We do this in a unique natural setting setting with caring role models.

CAMP ACTIVITIES

YMCA Camp Kitaki has activities for all interests. Here is a partial list! • Archery • Crafts • Swimming Pool (with Slides!) • Nature • Horseback Riding • Natural Playground • Lake (Canoes, Kayaks, and Paddle Boats) • High Challenge Course • Ziplines

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT WWW.YMCACAMPKITAKI.ORG OR CALL 402-434-9222 Financial Assistance is available for those who qualify

Spring 2014 Page 25

Lincoln Kids!

EARLY EDUCATION PROGRAMS

A Certified

Classroom

The Pond

by Nima Faunce, age 9 As I sit by the pond I’m listening to the little frogs croak and jump. I watch the algae filled water ripple in the wind. I see and listen to the fish splashing in the water. The ducklings start their first swimming lessons of the year. Those are the beautiful gifts of the pond.

Page 26 • www.lincolnkidsinc.com

Lincoln Kids! Great Birth day Partie s too!

STILL WATERS RANCH Lessons â&#x20AC;˘ Boarding â&#x20AC;˘ Summer Day Camps

2014 Summer Day Camps Mother and Daughter Camp July 1, 2, 3 â&#x20AC;˘ 9amâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;2pm â&#x20AC;˘ T, W, Th A special time to bond and grow in your relationship while sharing the fun of horses and riding together.

Horses: Head to Hoof June 2-6 &16-20, July 7-11 & 21-25 9amâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;3pm

2014

A great opportunity for new or infrequent riders to learn and advance through a week of basic horsemanship skills.No previous experience required. Age eight (8) & older.

Pony Pals May 27-29, June 10-12, June 24-26, July 15-17, July 29-31 â&#x20AC;˘ 9amâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;noon

402-474-1010

Sign u p early &w

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Downtown in the Haymarket at: 701 P Street South Lincoln store at: 4107 Pioneer Woods

A mini 3-day camp for students ages 6-8.

18221 S. 68th St., Hickman, NE 68372 402-432-0543 â&#x20AC;˘ stillwatersranchcole.com

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Spring 2014 Page 27

Lincoln Kids!

GLENN KORFF

SCHOOL OF MUSIC

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Fun all summer

Lincoln Kids!

2014 Spring & Summer Camp Directory Art Planet Camps

Monday–Thursday summer camps explore art with a different theme each week where students will learn techniques and skills in painting, pottery and more! Students will have the opportunity to display their favorite pieces in an exclusive art show! Visit the website to learn more and register today for your spot in one of Art Planet’s weekly camps! www.artplanetlincoln.com See ad p.42.

Bright Lights

Summer educational programs created to enlighten, expand, and enrich your child’s horizons. Registration begins online and by mail at noon on April 1st. Summer 2014 dates run: June 2-6; June 16-20; and July 7-11. www.brightlights.org or 402-420-1115. See ad page 24.

Camp Kitaki

Fantastic Summer Camps: 3, 7 and 14-day experiences for ages 7–17. Spring Camps too!: One week sessions begin in June through mid-August. Ranch camp for horse lover, 1/2 week adventure mini camps for age 7-9 and leadership camps for ages 14-17. Call 402-434-9222 or visit ymcalincoln.org/kitaki. See ad on page 25.

Camp Sonshine Dimensions Early Education Prog.

Haymarket Theatre

Day camp for Kindergarten through 9th grade. Leadership training for 7th-9th grade. Go-karts, archery, nature, crafts, outdoor cooking, water games, inflatables and more! 13440 S 25th Street just minutes from Lincoln in Roca. Call 402-423-8746. www.campsonshinememories.org See ad on page 26. Summer Discovery Days 2014, located in First-Plymouth Church, 2000 D St. Exciting weekly preschool and elementary experiences during June, July and August. Morning, PM and Extended Sessions available. Enrollment limited! Register: dimensionsfoundation.org or 402-476-8304. Certified Nature Explore Program. See ad page 26. 2014 Youth Season Spring and Summer Theatre Camps! 3-wk Performance camps. Mini-Camps. For ages 7-18. Visit: www.haymarkettheatre.org. See ad on page 17.

Husker Summer Camps

Husker Kids camps for children entering 2nd–6th grades; Husker Adventures for youth entering 7th & 8th grades. Nine weekly sessions held June 2 – August 8. At Campus Rec at the University of Nebraska Campus! Call 402-472-3467 or visit crec.unl.edu/youth. See ad page 14.

Language Project

Learn Spanish at Immersion Ranch, a language project kids spanish camp. Register by April 1st for early discounts. 402-430-8360 or languageprojectkids.com. See ad on page 12.

Lincoln Childrenʼs Museum Camps

Spring Camps for ages 6-10: Campaigning Kids Camp in Febr., Blocks & Blueprints in March, Monsters Ink in April. For Summer camps visit our website. For more details call 402-477-4000 or visit: LincolnChildrensMusuem.org See ad on page 27.

Lincoln Childrenʼs Zoo Camps

Camps for 3-4 yr.-olds…9:30-11:30AM; 4-5, 6-7 and 8-9 yr.-olds…8:30AM-NOON, 1-4:30PM, or 8:30AM-4:30PM; 10-12 year olds. 8:30AM-4:30PM. Space is limited! Register at www.lincolnzoo.org See their ad for complete information on page 23.

Lincoln Racquet Club

Lux Art Camps My Gym Oxbow Jr Vet Camp

Paint Yourself Silly Art Camp Parks & Rec. Day Camps Strategic Air & Space

Camps & Academies

Prairie Hill Camp St. Paulʼs Summer Daze

Kids of summer ‘14 week long day camps will keep your child learning & active all summer. Eleven different camps to choose from starting May 26th – August 8th. Attend one or attend them all. Camps range from: Weird Science, Top Chef, and Super Heros to LRC Olympics. Call Colleen at 402-423-2511. lincolnracquetclub.com See ad page 22. Enroll in spring and/or summer art camps at the LUX ! Go to www.luxcenter.org to see a list of classes and register online. See ad on page 7.

Spring Break and Summer Camp Programs includes nonstop fun where children participate in energizing fitness games, noncompetitive gymnastics, arts and crafts, music and more. Ages 3-10. Visit mygym.com/lincoln. Call 402-802-9982. See ad on page 43. Vet Camps for 2nd–5th or 6th-8th graders. Learn about animal behaviors and nutrition. Explore a day in the life of a veterinarian (take home your own surgical scrubs & a stethoscope!), perform a simulated exploratory surgery, interact with live animals each day. Register at www.oxbowvetcamp.com or call 800-249-0366. See ad page 13.

Art Camps Downtown in the Haymarket, 701 P St. and at South Lincoln store, 4107 Pioneer Woods. Week-long sessions. Well-suited for ages 6-14. Call 402-474-1010 for a brochure. See ad page 27. Our camps focus on group games, skill building & individual exploration through a wide range of activities; site based activities and city-wide field trips. Need based scholarships are available; $125 weekly fee. Register now for just a week or the whole summer! Title XX eligible. Registration forms available at: parks.lincoln.ne.gov or call 402-441-7952. Locations include: Air Park, Belmont, Calvert, ‘F’ Street and Irving Recreation Centers, Bethany Park, Everett and Goodrich Schools. See ad on page 13.

Summer Camps learning about; Robotics, Survial Training, High Altitude Ballooning, Astronomy Weekend, Mad Scientists, Astronaut Academy and Girls Only Weekend. Call or visit our website for more information: (402) 944-3100 ext. 209; www.sasmuseum.com. See ad on page 26.

Country day camps at Nebraska’s first wind and & powered school. June through August 1st. Themes include: Survival Awareness, Animal Adventures, Native Cultures, EarthArt and mini camps. Lots of nature experiences. 7 miles south of Lincoln on Hwy. 77 • 402-438-6668 • prairiehill.com. See ad on page 26. Week-long classes June through July for children 4 years old through fifth grade. Before care available to class enrollees. 9am-noon. Cost is $50 per week. Saint Paul United Methodist Church, 1144 M Street. For a brochure call the church office at 402-477-6951 or visit www.saintpaulumc.org. See ad on page 28.

Stillwaters Ranch

Mother & Daughter Camp: July1-3. Share the fun of horses & riding together. Horses: Head To Hoof: June 2-6 & 16-20, July 7-11 & 21-25. Basic horsemanship skills. Age (8) or older. Pony Pals: May 27-29, June 10-12, & 24-26, July 15-17 & 29-31. A mini 3-day camp for ages 6-8. 402-432-0543 • stillwatersranchcole.com See ad page 27.

Theatre Arts For Kids

Winter Improv, Stage Combat, and Set Painting Workshops. Spring Musical Theatre, Acting and Voice Workshops. Summer Musical Theatre Workshops featuring the musicals Oklahoma G2K and Peter Pan jr. For ages 7-15. website: www.ta4k.com See ad on page 21.

Tiger Rock Academy

UNL Band Camps Wee Widom PreSchool Westminster

Train all summer at Tiger Rock Academy for just $149 or choose a 4 week session for $99. TaeKwonDo lessons available for ages 3 and up. Two locations in Lincoln and also available in Firth! Call 402-483-1011. See ad on page 43.

UNL-sponsored Middle School Band Camps July 6-10 for grades 6th-8th. Marching Band Camp for 9th-12 grade, July 6-10. Visit: music.unl.edu. See ad on page 28 for details. Come and have fun with us! One week Summer camps in June and July, ages 3-6, morning or afternoon, weekly themes, hands-on learning experiences. Sign-up begins April 15. Call Kim at 402-420-7111 for more information. weewisdompreschool.org See ad page 6.

Summer Camp

Pre-kindergarten camp for children 3-6 years old. Dates May 27 to August 1. Hours: 9am-3pm. Creative Arts Camp for ages K–5th grade. July 14-18. Vacation Bible School for ages 3rs–5th grade June 16-20. New! Spring Drama Camp in March! Call 402-475-6702 ext. 103 or go to www.wpslincoln.org. See our display ad on page 9 & 14.

Wilderness Nature Camps

Wilderness Nature Camps - Our camps give kids the opportunity to explore, play and have great adventures in the outdoors every day. $170 week, scholarships are available. Camp brochure and registration information available at parks.lincoln.ne.gov/naturecenter/naturecamps.htm or call 402.441.7895 Wilderness Park, S 1st & Calvert. See ad page 13.

YAAL

Youth Actors Academy of Lincoln presents, School Day Off, Spring Break and Summer Performance Workshops, Theatre Classes, Improv Boot Camps, etc. Also private lessons for acting, voice and piano available. All levels of experience. Call 402-417-4137 or visit yaal.org See their ad on page 28.

Spring 2014 Page 29

Lincoln Kids!

Children’s Lessons Directory Prices & Specials subject to change without notice.

Name

Instruction

Atkinson Music Studio Bailey Music Studio

Location(s) & phone

Kid centered & family focused art workshops, camps and ongoing classes with a focus on engaging kids with special needs. Small class sizes, quality instruction offering a range of experiences in a variety of media and techniques all year long! Weekly open studio for teens who want to work independently and opportunities for adults are offered, too!

Art

Art Planet

Program

Southeast Lincoln • artplanetlincoln.com

Call Tamara at 402-610-2295 Centrally located • email: lauraatpeg@gmail.com

Private, groups, recitals and public performance opportunities. Beginners ages 3-adult. All levels! Over 25 years experience! Member Lincoln Suzuki Talent Education,Inc

Violin & Viola

Laura (402)474-0302

Private Lessons integrated with music history, theory, and composition for all ages. Master of Music with 17 years of experience. First lesson is FREE! Contact Jennifer Bailey for more information.

Flute, Piano, Beginning Band

27th & South Street Area

402-484-6809

Piano

Private lessons include theory classes with ensembles and performance opportunities. Group lessons available for beginners. Ages 4–Adult. Member LMTA. Call for info. or an interview.

Blue Raven Music Studios

Guitar, Piano and more!

Guitar, Bass, Piano, Dobro, Lap Steel, Mandolin, Banjo, Ukulele and Voice instruction for all ages. Fun, positve learning environment. Reduced rate guitar classes for kids ages 5–9. www.blueravenmusic.com

3835 S. 48th St. (across from Union College)

Campus Recreation

Swimming

Individual, group, and parent/child swim lessons. Red Cross levels I-V. Ongoing sessions.

UNL Campus 402-472-3467

Capital City Gymnastics

Gymnastics

Alice Bowen

Piano/Keyboard

Harris Academy of the Arts

Music Lessons Spanish

The Language Project LearningRx

Language Classes

tlp-KIDS innovative curriculum promotes the learning of a foreign language naturally through highly engaging stories, games, music and movement. Classes for children 18 months to 11 years of age.

Tennis/Swimming

High quality art classes and lessons for youth and adults in a variety of art media and techniques all year long. Small class sizes for one-on-one learning.

Motions Dance Academy, LLC

Dance

Ballet, Pointe, Jazz, Tap, Lyrical and Hip-Hop. Studio directed by Melissa Prettyman Meranda, B.A. in dance from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Come and experience your child's passion for dance!

Music

Instruction in piano, guitar, ukulele, mandolin, banjo, drum and voice. Fun new ukulele group classes for the summer.

Page 30 • www.lincolnkidsinc.com

Violin, Viola Guitar, Piano, Bass

www.harrisacademyofthearts.com

402-499-0400

www.encore-studio.com 2935 Pine Lake Rd

(across from So. Pointe Mall)

402-423-7121 www.harrisacademyofthearts.com

Convenient locations throughout Lincoln 402-419-8983 www.tlplanguageadventures.com

5955 S. 56th St. Ste. #4 402-477-5111 learningrx.com/lincoln www.lincolnracquetclub.com 5300 Old Cheney Road Tamara at: 402-423-2511

Find a Music Teacher

Art Classes

(across from So. Pointe Mall)

402-423-7121

Indoor tennis lessons for ages 4 and older. UPTSA Certified Instructors. Private, Semi-private, group and classes available. For swimming lessons we offer: private, semi-private, group swimming lessons, Float for Life & Swim conditioning. Experienced teachers, competitive rates. Non-members welcome!

LUX Center for the Arts

Nissaʼs String Studio

2935 Pine Lake Rd

Cognitive skills, math & reading programs for students struggling in school with attention, comprehension, memory or reading. Personal 1-on-1 training. 3-6 month programs. At least a 2-year improvement guaranteed!

Access www.LMTA.info for a Teacher Directory. Scholarships available for those who qualify!

Gymnastics & Sports Skills

www.capitalcitygymnastics.net

PRIVATE and GROUP music instruction: Piano, Vocal, Guitar, Strings, Woodwinds, Brass. Percussion,Theatre, and Kindermusik, Children’s Music Academy, Multiple, university-trained educators provide reputable, convenient scheduling for the entire family!

Music Lessons

My Gym

5030 N. 57th • 402-464-9692

FREE Preview Class! Benefitting thousands nationwide, Children’s Music Academy students partner with parents in a unique, action-packed classroom setting. Experienced, university-trained music educators provide reputable, quality instruction.

Lincoln Music Teachers Assn.

Musically Speaking

Mabel Lee Hall Pool, University of Nebr

Piano lessons and piano/keyboard classes for all levels. Beginners all ages. Studio is located near 70th & O Street.

Learning & Reading

Lincoln Racquet Club

402-486-0599

Gymnastics classes for boys & girls ages 2 through 18. We promote an “I can do” attitude, building not only overall physical skills, but also “life skills”.

Childrenʼs Music Early Childhood Academy Harris Academy of the Arts Piano Encore Studio

2501 S. 20th St. • 402-435-0386

www.LMTA.info 2601 N. 48th Street • 402-466-8692

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

Professional instruction in our 4-room facility with waiting area. Private lessons, chamber music, recording, recitals, & more. Making music fun in a positive learning environment! Violin, fiddle, viola, acoustic/electric guitar, piano, string bass, cello. Ages 3-adult. Home of Spitfire Fiddle Band. Call us today!

www.luxcenter.org 8200 Cody Dr., Suite L (one block north of 14th & 402-420-0579 www.motionsdance.net

Yankee Hill Rd.)

5610 S. 48th Street, Suite 111

402-420-2260 2755 Jamie Lane, Suite 4 (near S 27th & Yankee Hill Road)

402-802-9982

3900 South Street 402-440-1473

www.stringstudio.com

Lincoln Kids!

Children’s Lessons Directory Prices & Specials subject to change without notice.

Name

Instruction Cooking Lessons

plate & table Skate School–The Bay

Bring your kids of all ages and skill levels out for Skate School with Matthew Ratliff and Phil Burcher. Lessons run every Saturday from 9:30–11:30am. Cost $20. Includes helmet and board rentals.

TaeKwonDo

Life skills and personal development taught by Internationally Certified Instructors. Lessons available for ages 4 and up. Early Cubs for ages 3 and early 4 available! Call now for our starter course specials.

TNT Handwriting

Tutoring

Universal Dance Academy

Dance Tumbling & Musical Theatre

Performing Arts

Location(s) & phone 7411 Karl Drive

Cooking classes in a small group setting. Ages pre-school thru high school. A schedule of classes is found on our website. Also, you can create your own class or have a cooking party. Daycares, clubs & homeschoolers welcome!

Skateborading

Tiger Rock Academy

Youth Actorsʼ Academy of Lincoln

Program

402-540-2738 www.plateandtable.com

402-310-5215 • 2005 Y Street shyane@the-bay.org 8444 Executive Woods Dr. 5900 S 85th St Suite 100 Also in Firth

402-483-1011

Helping beginning and struggling writers learn proper letter formations and good writing skills. We are dedicated to helping your child become a successful writer.

TNTHandwriting.com

Ballet, Pointe, Tap, Jazz, Lyrical, Repertory, Hip Hop, Tumbling, Award Winning Competitive Company, plus Musical Theatre! Creative Movement for 3-4 year olds, Wee Go Together for 2-3 year olds & their mom/dad/or special friend.

400 N. 48th Street • Suite C01

402-421-3538 402-477-5900 • dance4uda.com

Youth Actors’ Academy of Lincoln (YAAL), is a non-profit organization which provides beginning to advanced performing arts classes and performances. Summer Camps, too!

402-450-9823 web: www.yaal.org

‘Little Ones’ Directory of Services Name

Program/Service

Art Planet

Preschool Paint-n-Play. Classes for ages 2-4 yrs. Storybook based art lessons will engage your little one's imagination while building pre-reading skills! Comfortable home studio environment offers a place for nursing mothers, too. Come play together with different art materials each week! Visit our website today!

Ager Indoor Play Center

Classes for ages 6 mos-5 yrs: music, theatre, arts & crafts, etc. Sessions begin every month. Play Center is open Mon-Sat for indoor play. Admission is $3.50/person, 12 mos and under free.

Itty Bitty Musik

Music classes for babies, toddlers, preschoolers, using the internationally recognized Musikgarten curriculum. Come for the fun, stay for the education! Certified & licensed teacher (BFAE, Music Education).

(a Musikgarten studio)

Location(s) & phone email: hello@artplanetlincoln.com Web: www.artplanetlincoln.com Tamara 402-610-2295

1300 S. 27th St 402-441-6788 (recorded info); 402-441-6792; web: parks.lincoln.ne.gov YWCA of Lincoln (27th & O) & CircleME (41st & O)

Harris Academy of the Arts

FREE Preview Classes! Listen & Move; Play & Grow! Kindermusik–the most trusted music and movement program for infants, toddlers, preschoolers, & young children. Experienced university-trained music educators provide reputable quality, instruction.

My Gym

Baby exercises, songs, dances, infant-safe rides, unique swings and many other parent and me adventures in age appropriate classes starting at 6 weeks up to 13 years.

Kindermusik

www.ittybittymusik.com Carrie Hansen, carrie@ittybittymusik.com

2935 Pine Lake Rd

(across from So. Pointe Mall)

402-423-7121 www.harrisacademyofthearts.com

2755 Jamie Lane, Suite 4 (near S 27th & Yankee Hill Road)

402-802-9982

We hope you will join us for the Summer 2014 (camp) Issue. Ad, Article and Children’s art deadline is April 10th, 2014 Kids! your s u d Sen ork! Ar t W

Phone: 402-798-0224 Email: lincolnkids@windstream.net Web: lincolnkidsinc.com Spring 2014 Page 31

Lincoln Kids!

...plus private school, preschool and after school Directory Name Academic Advantage Child Development Center Aspen Child Development Center & Montessori School

Area of Town Central/South Southeast

Brandyʼs Bunch

Southeast

Bubbles & Blocks

Northeast

Child Development Center, LLC

Calvert Recrecation PreSchool CEDARS

Christ Kids

South North Central

Program Educational childcare facility offering care for ages 6 weeks to 12 years. Benefits include: classroom style facilities, year round preschool programs, summer camps, transportation to schools, educated teachers, video security, on-site owners. Hours: 6:30AM – 6PM, Monday–Friday (all three facilities). e-mail: info@aacdc.com

630 N. Cotner Blvd. #200 (behind Westfield Mall) 402-465-4769 • 6021 S. 56th Street (south of 56th & Old Cheney) 402-420-5440 • 7301 S. 15th Street (south of 14th & Pine Lake) 402-421-7301

Quality developmentally appropriate child care program for children 6 weeks–12 years of age. Enroll now for Montessori Preschool Program. Beautiful center for children–come see the difference! Open Monday–Friday, 6:30 am - 6:00 pm. Locally owned & operated. 91st & Pine Lake Road area.

402-483-5511 • aspencdc.com 9300 Heritage Lakes Drive

Come where learning blossoms and friendships grow. Pre-school Program, Curriculum for All Ages, Accepting Title XX, Low Child to Teacher Ratio, New Outdoor Playground.

1111 Old Cheney (West Entrance of Christ’s Place) 402-420-0460

Brand new, family owned child development center, now open! Northeast Lincoln location. Offering care to children ages 6 wks–12 yrs. Monday-Friday, 6:30am-6pm. Call now to reserve your spot! Web: bubblesandblock.com

A preschool program focused on music, art, math, and language. A great program of playing and learning that will help prepare your child for kindergarten. M/W/F 9-11:30 and T/Th 9:30-11:30. Focusing on school readiness, we offer secure, nurturing environments to children ages 6wks–12yrs. Includes before & after school programs at Clinton and Hartley Schools. Programs are accredited by the Council on Accreditation (COA) &/or the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). Title XX accepted. Call now to enroll your child today!

Christ Kids provides quality programming by an experienced and trained staff, taught with a Christian perspective. Infants – 5th grade. Children grow academically, physically, socially and spiritually. Our safe, nurturing environment with small class sizes makes this a great place for kids.

Child Care and Preschool

Central

Colorful Minds Child Development Center

South

Dimensions Early Education Programs @ First-Plymouth

Central

Quality early education program using Dimensions Educational Foundation Research program for children 6 weeks–preschool. Summer programs for K–5th grade. Visit dimensionsfoundation.org for information or online forms. Openings available!

Dual Language Preschool

South

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

First Learning Center

Southeast

4 Views Academy

Northeast

Highlands Academy

Northwest

Immanuel Lutheran

Central

Preschool

Kellyʼs Kids Learning and Development Center

Kids Imagination Station Krayon Campus La Petite Academy Page 32 • www.lincolnkidsinc.com

Northwest Near South

Location(s) & phone

New facility. High-quality care & Early Childhood Education Program for ages 6wks-12 yrs. Open 7am-6pm–Mon.–Fri. Theme based curriculum–developmentally appropriate for each age group. Enhancement of your child’s intellectual, physical, social & emotional well-being. Sign-language, music, & hands-on projects in a fun, safe, secure environment. Large Playground with a 5-sided structure. Healthy snacks/meals provided. Educated teachers. Title XX accepted.

Preschool for 3 – 5 Year Olds. As a ministry of First Lutheran Church we offer a nurturing Christian environment to enhance the development and well-being of your child. Nature Explore Classroom certified from the Arbor Day Foundation.

Open 6am-6pm. Ages 6wks to 12 yrs. Accepting Title XX. Age appropriate curriculums. Parent Involvement. Director: Gina Tanner. Email: 4viewsacademy@gmail.com Web: www.4viewsacademy.com

Child Development & Family Resource Center. Ages 6 wks–12 years. Full time Care. Preschool Curriculum. Christian preschool program. Small classes with hands on experiences for little learners. Art, science and learning through exploration. AM classes–9-11:30. MWF for 4/5 year olds, TTH for 3/4 year olds. PM sessions available when AM is full.

Featuring developmentally appropriate curriculum, healthy homemade meals, caring teachers, & a larger outdoor play area. Ages 6wks-5 years accepted, open 7am-6pm M-F. Title XX assistance accepted. Full or parttime care available.

Ages 6 weeks – 11. Licensed childcare, pre-school program, school-age Homework help. Theme based curriculum. Open 6:30AM–6:00PM.

Central

Child development centers that care for your child’s Individual needs. Ages 6 Weeks–12 Years. Curriculum Based. Nutritious Hot Meals. Title XX accepted. Transportation to LPS area schools. Open Monday–Friday 6am-6pm.

South/Central

La Petite Academy has been inspiring children for over 40 years. Our high quality early education programs are individually designed for children 6 weeks–age 12. Open 6-6, M-F. Title XX. AM & PM transportation to area schools. Ask about our Summer, Moms Day Out, and other Extra Enrichment programs. www.lapetite.com

8521 Lexington Ave. 402-328-0404

Calvert Community Center 4500 Stockwell.

402-441-8480, web: parks.lincoln.ne.gov

402-434-KIDS (5437) cedarskids.org Centrally located at 43rd and Sumner St 402-483-7774 ext. 110 www.christschools.org

7244 S. 29th St. • 421-MIND (6463) www.colorfulminds.net located in First-Plymouth Church, 20th & D Sts.

402-476-8304 Irving Rec Center, 2010 Van Dorn, 402-441-7954, web: parks.lincoln.ne.gov

402-488-0919 • flclincoln.org 1551 S. 70th Street 4330 Cornhusker Hwy 402-464-0174 4747 Pioneers Blvd. 402-484-8196

5901 NW 1st Street 402-476-2223 2001 South 11th Street 474-6275 4901 NW 1st Street 402-477-4901 www.kellyskidsldc.com

1320 &1338 South Street 402-475-0300 6001 Normal Blvd.

402-486-4847 6632 Taylor Park Drive • 402-488-3125 Vicky Jones–Director 2700 Jameson North • 402-421-3125 Nicole Lippold–Director

Lincoln Kids! ...and this page has even more great places to know about.

continued

Name

Area of Town

Lincoln Christian Preschool

Program

Location(s) & phone

South

Academic Christian Preschool. Attend 2, 3 or 5 half-day sessions per week. AM and PM available.

5801 S. 84th St. 488-8888 x 252 www.lincolnchristian.org/preschool

Little Learners Preschool and Academy

Southeast

Academic-based, Christian preschool with Extended Care hours 7:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. Sanine Beck, Director

MyLittleLearners.com

Living Faith Daycare

Northeast

Prairie Hill Learning Center

Far South

Montessori

Nurturing Christian Environment. We accept children 6 wks to 12 years. Follow USDA Food Program requirements. Before/after school care and summer program for school-aged children. Open 6:30am-5:30pm Mon-Fri.

East

Nestled on 80 gorgeous acres east of Lincoln, we offer your child a special and unique experience. New facility. Spacious accommodations, developmental learning centers, and the natural setting of a country school all provide for a wholesome atmosphere.

Pioneers Park Nature Center Preschool

West

Animals + Plants + Hikes = learning through discovery + creating a lifelong connection to nature. Preschool and PreK classes.

South

Open 7:15 to 5:45 pm. Ages 18 months to 6 years. Part time or full time. Professionally Certified/Degreed staff.

Montessori

Trinity Infant & Child Care Centers

Near Downtown & Far South

Quality, licensed Christian preschool educational program for children 3–5 years. Five different AM & PM classes & all day classes 9am-3pm. Extended care 7:309am & 3-5:30pm. School year and summer classes available. NAEYC accredited.

Williamsburg Village

South

Literacy focused, family friendly program for children 6wks-12yrs. Theme based curriculum offering many special family events, dance, & nutritious meals prepared on-site. M-F 6:30am – 6pm. Director/owner is a nurse practitioner.

Southeast

Child development Center

Kitra Deger-Director West end of Pio. Park

3341 Pioneers Blvd. 402-484-8277 1345 S. 16th • 402-475-9731 7130 Kentwell Lane • 402-421-0184

Ages 6 weeks – 12. Preschool curriculum beginning at age one. Before and after school out care. Sign language, swimming, soccer dance and taekwondo lessons and music lessons are available. Open 6:30AM–6:00PM.

3301 Orwell St.

402-423-KIDS (5437) 8310 Wendell Way 402-483-4769 worldofknowledgene.com

Prices & Specials subject to change without notice.

Family Friendly Restaurants Name Amigos/ Kings Classic

Type of Food Mexican & American

Applebeeʼs

American Grill

Grisantiʼs

Italian

Greenfieldʼs Cafe

Family

Kid Specials Fast & Friendly place for the family. 6 Kids’ Meals to choose from – Cheesy Burritos to Cheeseburgers to Chicken Bites. Meals include drink, fries, and an ice cream treat! Reduced price Kid’s Meal EVERY DAY from 5–8 p.m. with adult purchase.

Kids’ meals are only 99¢ on Wednesdays! Available for dine in only at participating Applebee’s locations. Good toward kids’ meal items for children 12 and under. Bambino Day: All day Monday Kids ages 10 & under eat free from kid’s menu! One child per adult entree purchased. Kids Receive a 99¢ Smiley Pancake Meal When You Mention This Ad! With an adult purchase. For ages 12 & under. Great Things are Happening at Greenfield’s!

402.441.7895

parks.lincoln.ne.gov/naturecenter/preschool

Westminster Presbyterian Church 2110 Sheridan Blvd. www.wpslincoln.org 402-475-6702 ext 103

South

World of Knowledge

7 miles South of Lincoln on Hwy 77

402-438-6668 www.prairiehill.com

143rd “O” St. • 402-488-0012

Trinity provides a developmentally appropriate child care program for children ages 6wks-12yrs. Family friendly center offers daily music, art, literacy, outdoor play, field trips, dance, & home cooked meals. Two locations: Cose to Downtown and near 56th & Pine Lake Rd. Call today!

Westminster Preschool

Child Development Center

5910 Holdrege St. 402-464-5410

Ages 18 mo. thru 8th grade. Open 7am-6pm. Care of farm animals, close to nature, family atmosphere. Elementary Program.

Prairieview Preschool

The Childʼs View

402-840-1196

Kid Meal Deals & Where Kid s Can Eat for Free

Location(s) 5701 NW 1st, 29th & Cornhusker, 48th & Leighton, 4700 W. Huntington, 63rd & Havelock, Coddington & West A, 14th & Q, 27th & Capitol, Gateway Mall, 70th & A, 14th & Hwy 2, 14th & Pine Lake Rd., 56th & Old Cheney

40th & Old Cheney • Westfield Gateway Mall 3951 N. 27th Street • 11th & ‘O’ Downtown

6820 “O” Street

•

402-464-8444

7900 South 84th (87th & Hwy 2 across from Walmart) 402-420-3232 • www.greenfieldscafe.com Spring 2014 Page 33

Lincoln Kids!

Capital Birthday Ideas Party Directory Place

Fun Features

Location(s) & phone 1300 S. 27th St 402-441-6788 (recorded info); 402-441-6792; web: parks.lincoln.ne.gov

The Active Party Place! Open hours and after hours rentals available. Special play areas for those 2 and under and 3 and over.

Ager Indoor Play Center Art Planet

Prices & Specials subject to change without notice.

Add an artistic element to your birthday party! Come to the studio to celebrate your party “Art Planet” style where guests get to take home their masterpiece as the party favor! Party consists of one hour art lesson plus half hour for your cake and presents. You pick the project! Visit the website for a list of project ideas and party details.

Capital City Gymnastics

A Birthday Party with 3 Party Package Options – Featuring a zip line, 18' inflatable slide, and 15'x15' bouncer. Plus, foam pit, trampoline and spring floor. Inflatables also available for outside rental.

Circle Me

Hold your next Function or Birthday Party with us! Circle Me is convienently located near 33rd and O Streets. Our large party room available for rent at $45 for three hours. Seats 30 but will hold up to 50 people. Call us for open times or more information.

Champions Fun Center

Larson Lifestye Center Lincoln Childrenʼs Museum Lost In Fun! Lincoln Racquet Club LUX Center for the Arts

www.capitalcitygymnastics.net

Make Laser Quest Your Party Headquarters! Laser Quest, an interactive adventure game of laser tag and hide & seek, provides intense fun for birthday parties, team celebrations, family reunions and group events. Check us out www.laserquest.com

www.circleme.me

68th & “P” Street (East Park Plaza)

402-465-5522

Have your next pool party at Larson Lifestyleʼs Warm Water pool! Variety of birthday party options to fit any budget. Join us for swimming and bring your gifts and cake for our party room. Call us today for more information.

52nd & Stockwell • 402-486-2525 www.larsonlifestylecenter.com

Celebrate at the Museum! Birthday packages start at $70. Choose from a one-hour themed party room

1420 P Street, Lincoln, NE LincolnChildrensMuseum.org

(Pirates, Princess, Cowboy, Cowgirl, & Safari). Includes balloons, party favors, drinks, & paper ware. Museum Members receive a 10% discount. Parties can be booked online at LincolnChildrensMuseum.org, in person, or by phone.

Your Outdoor Playland... Indoors! Voted Lincoln’s Choice, “Best Place to Have a Kid's Birthday Party” in 2012 & 2013. Indoor fun for all ages! Playsets, foam pit, inflatable jumpers, fun maze, laser maze, video games, birthday party rooms and a snack area. 3 Hour Gym & Swim party, Includes room, decorations, cake, punch, indoor/outdoor pool, Playsmart climbing area, and Youth B-ball Gym. Add ons available: Bounce House or your choice of hip hop, cheer or kickboxing instruction. Non-members welcome!

Celebrate at the LUX Center! Embrace your inner artist and choose from a variety of projects including: clay mugs or bowls, screen printed t-shirts and tote bags, group painting and printmaking. Each guest makes their own piece of art!

402-477-4000

8431 Cody Drive (15th & Yankee Hill) (402) 261-0440 • www.lostinfun.com www.lincolnracquetclub.com 5300 Old Cheney Road 402-423-2511

2601 N. 48th Street • 402-466-8692 www.luxcenter.org

Have a Bowling Party. Kids love our bumper bowling. Includes cake, pop, balloons and a “personalized” bowling pin gift for the birthday child! Ask about Jr. Pool Leagues!

47th & Dudley • 402-467-3249

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!

(near S 27th & Yankee Hill Road)

PartyArty at Paint Yourself Silly! Come unleash your inner artist. 100’s of pieces to choose from. Pottery painting fun for all ages.

Paint Yourself Silly Pioneers Park Nature Center

2 blks south of 48th& Holdrege 2755 Jamie Lane, Suite 4

402-802-9982 2 Great Locations • www.paintyourselfsilly.net Downtown in the Haymarket: 701 P Street • 402-474-1010 Near 70th & Pioneers: 4107 Pioneer Woods • 402-486-1010

Owls, snakes, bugs and the great outdoors are eager to make your child's birthday a special one.

Science Reconnect

Hands on science that is fun and inspiring for all ages. Packages begin at $150+mileage. We bring the science fun to you.

Swimtastic Swim School

Jump in and Party with us in 90° Water! One hour pool time/one hour party room time. Free invitations, free gift for BD child. Professional staff. 3 packages avail. Pizza option. Call us!

Tiger Rock Academy

Unforgettable party with martial arts, food, games, cut the cake with a sword, break boards and more! $249-$299 for up to 40 friends!

University of Nebraska State Museum-Morrill Hall

Guided museum activities including a hands-on fossil dig in the Marx Discovery Center and gifts for every child! Five party themes to choose from, private party room.

Youth Actors Academy of Lincoln

Be a Broadway Star! YAAL provides an instructor and our theatre for the birthday child and up to 15 friends to choreograph and costume a special performance!

YMCA-Cooper, Fallbrook & Northeast Branch

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 $65. Call for more information. Or visit: www.ymcalincoln.org

Page 34 • www.lincolnkidsinc.com

3120 ‘O’ Street • 402-435-6767

402-434-7066 www.championsfuncenter.com

mystery gift, two activities; choose from bowling, adventure maze, go-karts, mini golf, free fall or water wars, tokens, face painting or balloon animals, pizza & pop, dippin dots & cupcakes.

Madsenʼs Bowling My Gym

Call Tamara at 402-610-2295

5030 N. 57th • 402-464-9692

Best Birthday Parties Ever! Gold package includes a Party Hero, free t-shirt to decorate,

Laser Quest

Southeast Lincoln • artplanetlincoln.com

West end of Pioneers Park 402.441.7895 parks.lincoln.ne.gov/naturecenter/birthdays.htm

www.sciencereconnect.com

402-890-0964 7911 Pioneers Blvd.

402-489-7946

Lincoln@swimtastic.com

402-483-1011 2 locations available

Morrill Hall on the UNL Campus 402-472-2637

• www.museum.unl.edu/birthdays

Book at: www.yaal.org Cooper - 6767 S. 14th St. Fallbrook - 700 Penrose Dr. Northeast - 2601 N. 70th

402-323-6400 402-323-6444 402-434-9262

Lincoln Kids!

Spring 2014 Calendar of Events: February, March, April, 2014 If your organization would like a free Calendar listing in the next issue go to: lincolnkidsinc.com - click on Submissions or tell us about it on Facebook: LincolnKidsNewspaper Summer 2014 Issue Deadline: April 10, 2014 Months covered: May, June, July Lincoln Kids! Newspaper Phone: 402-798-0224 February Tuesday, February 4, 7:30pm Chiara String Quartet will be performing the third concert of their Hixson-Lied Concert Series at Kimball Recital Hall (11th and R Streets). Thursday, February 6 OR Monday, February 10

(Organizational meetings), 7pm The Penguin Project! at Lincoln Community Playhouse, 2500 S 56th St., 402-489-7529; lincolnplayhouse.com, Contact Lindsay Masin: 402-473-5066, lindsaymasin@gmail.com. Youth ages 10-22 with disabilities to participate FREE in the production of Annie Jr. and youth ages 10-22 without disabilities to serve as mentors. The Penguin Project is a musical theatre production that casts children and young adults with disabilities in all roles. You need attend only one of the informational meetings. Saturday, February 8, 9:30am-4:30pm 10th Annual Dinosaurs & Disasters at UNLNebraska State Museum in Morrill Hall, 14th & U St., Lincoln; 472-2642; museum.unl.edu Family-friendly event that encourages scientific discovery through hands-on activities and demonstrations with scientists Saturday, February 8, 2pm Easy Morning Breakfast: French Toast, Smoothies at plate and table, 7411 Karl Drive; plateandtable.com. $20 Sunday, February 9, 10am-4pm My Gym Open House at My Gym Lincoln, mygym.com/lincoln A fun-filled day of play and class activities. Choose your child’s spring classes and take advantage of some awesome registration promotions. Come dance, run, jump and flip around our sparkly clean facility and see why My Gym is the leader in children’s physical fitness and development. Tuesday, February 11, 10am Lincoln Zoo Summer Camp Registration begins at Lincoln Children’s Zoo, 1222 S 27th St., 402-475-6741; lincolnzoo.org (Camps may sell out. Early registration is recommended.) Saturday, February 15, 9-11:30am Great Backyard Bird Count at Pioneers Park Nature Center, 3201 S. Coddington, 402-441-8709

Prairie Building $5/Suggested Donation. Meet with birders at the Chet Ager Building for hot mulled cider and snack and count the visitors at the bird garden. Data will be submitted to the biologists at the Cornell University Bird Lab for the 16th Annual Great Bird Count. The Wild Bird Habitat Stores will be on hand to discuss how you can attract birds to your backyard. Call 402-441-7895 if you plan to attend. Monday, February 17, 8am-5pm Campaigning Kids at Lincoln Children’s Museum, 1420 P St., 402-477-4000, lincolnchildrensmuseum.org

Discuss ideas that matter to kids, craft campaigns, write speeches, create a Camper Constitution and even cast a vote! Monday, February 17, 6pm-9pm Diaper Up! at MilkWorks, 5930 South 58th, 402-423-6402 A FREE open house event loaded with information, hands on experience and giveaways! Ask questions about cloth, pick up handouts and information, even try your hand at using different diapering systems! No registration necessary, but call ahead of time to be entered into a drawing for a chance to win a $30 gift certificate to babyworks boutique! Tuesday, February 18, 7pm Adult Cooking Class: Orange Chicken Piccata, Rice and peas at plate and table, 7411 Karl Drive; plateandtable.com $20 Wednesday, February 19, 9:15-10:00am Paint-n-Play at Art Planet, 402-610-2295; artplanetlincoln.com. Storybook based art lessons will engage your little one’s (ages 2-5, with parent) imagination while building prereading skills. $10/student/class. Foster parents and their fostered preschoolers can attend class for free! Register by Monday for class on Wednesday at www.artplanetlincoln.com Saturday, February 22 Nebraska Robotics Expo at Strategic Air & Space Museum, 28210 W. Park Hwy, Ashland; 402-944-3100; strategicairandspace.com Saturday, February 22, 10 am-1 pm ZooZeum Day at Lincoln Children’s Museum, 1420 P St., 402-477-4000, lincolnchildrensmuseum.org ZooZeum Day is a partnership between the Lincoln Children’s Museum and a number of local organizations committed to animal education, wildlife preservation and animal rescue. Interact with animals, as well as learn about the importance of proper care and maintaining animal habitats. Regular admission ($8/ages 2 and up) or Museum Membership applies for ZooZeum Day. In addition, Lincoln Children’s Zoo members get in free by presenting their Zoo membership card. February 22-September 7 Titanoboa Monster Snake Exhibit at Morrill Hall, 14th and Vine St., museum.unl.edu/ titanoboa Sunday, February 23, 1:30-4:30pm Sunday with a Scientist: Titanoboa and Snakes at UNL-Nebraska State Museum in Morrill Hall, 14th & U St., 402-472-2642; museum.unl.edu, Explore snakes of the past and present Monday, February 24 Preschool Play Days (ages 3-5) Play Dough Smash Up at Lincoln Children’s Museum, 1420 P St., 402-477-4000, lincolnchildrensmuseum.org

This brand new one-day camp concept is held on days when the Museum is closed to the public, giving your camper exclusive access to

the exhibits! Through activities, story time and hands-on projects, Miss Flowers will explore a variety of themes with campers. Cost is $50/ Members, $65/Nonmembers. February 27-March 9, Thur-Sat 7pm, Sun 2pm

War of the Worlds at Haymarket Theatre, 803 Q St., 402-477-2600; haymarkettheatre.org Martians invade in an original stage adaptation of the H.G. Wells sci-fi classic.

March Sundays in March, 9:30am or 11am Cornerstone Construction Zone! at Horizons Community Church, horizonschurch.org A special series called Cornerstone Construction Zone where kids will have a blast looking at some of the things we believe about God, during main services. Saturday, March 1, 10am-11am Free Healthcare Profession Exploration Day for Kids at Bryan College of Health Sciences, 5035 Everett St., 402-481-8886, bryanhealth. org/calendar. A variety of fun learning tools for kids up to age 12. See ad on page 14. Saturday, March 1, 10am-4pm Willy Wonka Junior at Haymarket Theatre, 803 Q St., 402-477-2600; haymarkettheatre.org Take a tour through “a land of pure imagination” in our BIG spring musical. Saturday, March 1, 2pm It’s a Wrap! Pizza Sushi, Chicken Banh Mi Wraps at plate and table, 7411 Karl Drive; plateandtable.com. $20 Saturday, March 1 60 Days of Science at Strategic Air & Space Museum, 28210 West Park Highway, Ashland; 402-944-3100; strategicairandspace.com Visitors will discover specific areas set up with experiments, observations and physical tests. Blowing a hole through a pop can using just atmospheric pressure, floating on air on a hover craft, watching a demonstration of burning elements (fireworks) with diffraction lens glasses and much more will be available. Tuesday, March 4, 7pm Adult Cooking Class: Beef Bolognese, Fettuccini Alfredo, Lettuce Salad with homemade vinaigrette at plate and table, 7411 Karl Drive; plateandtable.com $20 Thursdays, March 6-April 10, 6:30-8:30pm Common Sense Parenting Saint Elizabeth Regional Medical Center, saintelizabethonline.com, 6-week program Help your toddler or preschooler learn limits and how to effectively deal with their feelings. Role play, video and discussion on how to set reasonable expectations based on your child’s age and abilities, how “show and tell” can be used to prevent problems and correct misbehavior, use praise to help your child choose the right behavior and celebrate special occasions and everyday successes as cherished family traditions. Cost is $95/couple. March 7, 13, 14, 7:30pm, March 8, 9, 15, 16, 2pm

The Musical Adventure of Flat Stanley Jr. Lincoln Community Playhouse, 2500 S 56th St., 402-489-7529; lincolnplayhouse.com Stanley Lambchop wakes one morning to find he is as flat as a pancake. He becomes the ultimate exchange student, traveling from Hollywood to France to Honolulu. Along the way he gets an agent and foils an art gallery robbery. March 8th AND March 15th, Two-session course, 8am – 1pm

Saint Elizabeth Regional Medical Center, saintelizabethonline.com American Red Cross Babysitter’s Training What you need to know and what every parent wants in a safe and responsible babysitter! Designed for 11-15-year-olds, the course can help you care for children and infants, be a good leader and role model, make good decisions and solve problems, keep the children you babysit and yourself safe, handle emergencies such as injuries, illnesses and household accidents, write resumes and interview for jobs. First Aid and CPR certifications. Cost is $70 Sunday, March 9, 1-4pm Geology Day Chet Ager Building $5 Suggested Donation. Pioneers Park Nature Center, 3201 S. Coddington, 402-441-8709 Learn about fossils, minerals, rocks and gemstones through displays and demonstrations by the members of the Lincoln Gem and Mineral Club. They can also help you identify your own specimens during this drop-in program. Sunday, March 9 Lincoln Irish Dancers, lincolnirishdancers. org, 402-742-0477. Cost for Workshop: $10, Students/$5, Family Cap/$30, Ceili Admission: $10, Students/$5, Family Cap/$30. An instructional workshop from 3:30-5:30pm at the YWCA and the Annual Spring Irish Social Dance or “Ceili” (KAY-lee) at Auld Rec Center from 6:30-9pm. Experience NOT required. See ad on page 9.

Spring Break Monday-Friday March 10-14, 8:30am- 5pm Nature Explorers Spring Break Camp Pioneers Park Nature Center, 3201 S. Coddington, 402-441-8709, Prairie Building $170. Children ages 6-13 will play games, explore, build magic places, make friends and have a great time. Campers will get outside every day to investigate the natural world around them. Extended hours are available from 7:30am to 5:30pm at no extra charge. March 10-14, 9:30am-12:30pm WYCAM-01 Ages 5-9, 2-5pm WYCAM-02 Ages 10-13 Modern Masters: Spring Break Art Camp An intense, whirlwind week of creativity! Your child will work with a different instructor and media each day, and explore the works of modern artists. Camp coincides with LPS spring break. Tuition: $100 LUX members (non-members $125) March 10-14 The Hunger Games Spring Break Camp at Haymarket Theatre, 803 Q St., 402-477-2600; haymarkettheatre.org, Survive Spring Break in the

combat filled “Hunger Games” inspired camp March 10-14 “Blocks & Blueprints Spring Break Camp” at Lincoln Children’s Museum, 1420 P St., 402477-4000, lincolnchildrensmuseum.org Campers will design and build structures as part of this architecture and engineering camp. Fun materials, silly designs and some crazy demolition are drawn into the day’s plans. Members: $175; Non Members: $195 March 10-14, 9am-3:30pm Treasure Island Drama Camp at Westminster. Betsu Guyer, 402-475-6702, ext. 107, betsy@ westminsterlincoln.org, 2110 Sheridan Blvd., westminsterlincoln.org A spring break adventure for youth K-8th. Register before March 1 for $125, late registration $150. See ad on page 9.

Spring 2014 Page 35

Lincoln Kids! Saturday, March 11, 1pm School’s Out! Brownies, Our top secret recipe for amazing brownies! at plate and table, 7411 Karl Drive; plateandtable.com $18 March 14 - 16, Starts 5pm on Friday until 8pm on Sunday, Great Plains Game Festival at Great Plains Gaming Project, GreatPlainsGameFestival.com. The Great Plains Game Festival at the Downtown Lincoln Holiday Inn, 141 N. 9th St. A full weekend of tabletop gaming including Boardgames, Role Playing, Collectible Card Games and more! Early bird special on website is $20 for the whole weekend, or $10/$15/$10 for Fri/Sat/ Sun. Family Day is Sunday - kids get in free with a paid adult ticket. Saturday, March 15th, 8am Run for the Bridges Fundraiser Pioneers Park Nature Center, 3201 S. Coddington, 402-441-8709, A fundraiser to replace the bridges in Wilderness Park. The Run for the Bridges offers a marathon, 1/2 marathon, 10K distance, and 1.8 mile kids run on the trails of Wilderness Park. Registration, detailed information can be found at getmeregistered. com. Register before March 7th for a free t-shirt. Sunday, March 16, 1:30-4:30pm Eight Legged Encounters at UNL-Nebraska State Museum in Morrill Hall, 14th & U St., Lincoln; 472-2642; museum.unl.edu. Expanded edition of Sunday with a Scientist that explores spiders and other eight-legged critters

encouraged to attend Super Hero Day dressed as their favorite super hero. Those in costume receive $1 off regular admission. Monday, March 24 Preschool Play Days (ages 3-5) Animal Expeditions at Lincoln Children’s Museum, 1420 P St., 402-477-4000, lincolnchildrensmuseum.org

One-day camp held on days when Museum is closed to the public, giving your camper exclusive access to exhibits! Through activities, story time and hands-on projects, Miss Flowers will explore a variety of themes with campers. Cost is $50/Members and $65/Nonmembers. Tuesday, March 25, 7pm Adult Cooking Class: BBQ Meatballs, Roasted Sweet Potatoes at plate and table, 7411 Karl Drive; plateandtable.com $20 Wednesday, March 26 for 8 weeks Toddler Team Up (ages 1-3 & parents) at Lincoln Children’s Museum, 1420 P St., 402477-4000, lincolnchildrensmuseum.org Toddler Team Up sessions create an immersive environment of developmentally appropriate activities that children and adults can explore together, designed to enhance all five areas of a child’s development. Registration for the program is $60/members, $75/nonmember participants. Save $10 on registration when sign up by Feb. 26!

Saturday, March 29, 10am – 1pm ReDiaper Sale at Circle ME Baby Boutique, 3120 “O” St, 402-435-6767 for more information.

Mondays, March 17, 24, 31, April 7, 14, 21, 28, May 5, 10-11:30am Hand in Hand: Spring Song at Pioneers Park Nature Center, 3201 S. Coddington, 402-4418709. Register by March 6. $65/child/8 week session. Prairie Building Goldenrod Classroom. Together you and your child will discover the wonders of spring through walks, games and stories. Please dress for the weather, we will be exploring outside for a portion of each class. A snack will be provided. Ages 2½-3½ year olds and accompanying adult. This class is designed for one-on-one time, please leave younger siblings at home. Wednesday, March 19, 9:15-10:00am Paint-n-Play at Art Planet, 402-610-2295; artplanetlincoln.com. Storybook based art lessons will engage your little one’s (ages 2-5, with parent) imagination while building prereading skills. $10/student/class. Foster parents and their fostered preschoolers can attend class for free! Register by Monday for class on Wednesday at www.artplanetlincoln.com Thursday, March 20, Noon-11pm Sandhill Crane Trip at Pioneers Park Nature Center, 3201 S. Coddington, 402-441-8709 $75/person ($25/blind reservation nonrefundable). Visit the Nebraska Nature and Visitor Center, travel rural roads to see the cranes foraging and dancing in the fields, then watch and listen to them return to the Platte River at sunset from a Rowe Sanctuary blind. The fee includes van transportation, dinner and blind costs. Must have the ability to walk uneven trails in low light with a guide. Registration, payment due February 21 for blind reservations. Thursday, March 20, 7:30pm Chiara String Quartet will perform the final concert of their Hixson at Lied Concert Series, Kimball Recital Hall (11th and R Streets). Saturday, March 22, 10 am-1 pm Super Hero Day at Lincoln Children’s Museum, 1420 P St., 402-477-4000, lincolnchildrensmuseum.org Activities include creating your own super hero accessories and opportunities to have your picture taken with the super heroes visiting the Museum. While not required, guests are

Page 36 • www.lincolnkidsinc.com

An opportunity to buy and sell your gently used items in a consigner based market. We bring this service to you with the intent to provide an easy outlet for your stash of natural goods to be sold to families who are in need of these items and who are wanting to try cloth diapering and such. Lincoln’s largest consignment sale specifically for babies, including cloth diapers and carriers.

April Tuesday, April 2 and April 9, 6:30pm-8:45pm Breastfeeding - 2 week series at Saint Elizabeth Regional Medical Center, www. saintelizabethonline.com Prepares you for breastfeeding success by: Teaching correct latch, skin-to-skin, laid-back nursing, knowing how to build your milk supply, learning how to pump breast milk, breast pump styles and preventing problems. Taught by a lactation specialist. $25/couple April 3-6, 7pm Thur-Sat 7pm, Sun 2pm The Party Room at Haymarket Theatre, 803 Q St., 402-477-2600; haymarkettheatre.org Something is amiss in this modern murder mystery with a side of laser tag. April 4, 5, 10, 11, 12 7:30pm, 6, 13, 2pm Stepping Out at Lincoln Community Playhouse, 2500 S 56th St., 402-489-7529; lincolnplayhouse.com Saturday, April 5, from 9:30am-Noon Music at the Museum at Lincoln Children’s Museum, 1420 P St., 402-477-4000, lincolnchildrensmuseum.org. Budding musicians of all ages are invited to joins us for a symphony of sound. Music at the Museum invites young people (and the young at heart) to try their hands at different instrumentsbrass, strings, woodwinds and percussion and raise their voices in song! Free for Museum members and $1 off paid admission when you mention Sigma Alpha Iota or Music at the Museum. April 5, 9am-6pm and April 6, 10am-5pm Gem and Mineral Show, Stones & Bones at Lancaster Event Center, 84th & Havelock, lincolngemmineralclub.org

Saturday, April 5, 2pm It’s an eggtastic class! Deviled eggs, bacon and egg cups at plate and table, 7411 Karl Drive; plateandtable.com. $18 Tuesday, April 8, 7pm Adult Cooking Class: Desserts, Bread Pudding with a whiskey cream sauce, Molten Chocolate cakes with whipped cream at plate and table, 7411 Karl Drive; plateandtable.com $20 Friday, April 11, 5-8pm Wee Wisdom Preschool Family Fun Night for ages 3-10, Wee Wisdom Preschool, 5201 Old Cheney Rd., 402-420-7111, weewisdom@ netzero.net. Carnival games & prizes, food, cotton candy, face painting, clowns & balloons, blow-up bouncer, and a silent auction with prizes for kids and adults. Saturday, April 12, 9am-1pm Early Childhood Celebration at Southeast Community College, 8800 O St, in the gymnasium, Lincoln Association for the Education of Young Children (LAEYC), www.facebook.com/ pages/Lincoln-Association-for-the-Education-ofYoung-Children-LAEYC/114170908755894

The Early Childhood Celebration is an annual free event to celebrate the National Week of the Young Child. Child care professionals, health and safety programs, community volunteers, and local agencies come together to offer information and activities to families with children ages birth through 8. Stage performances throughout the day. Saturday, April 12, 10:30-noon La Leche League of Lincoln Movie and Informational meeting at Walt Library, 6701 S. 14th St., La Leche League of Lincoln, lllofne.org Movie and Informational meeting for new and expecting moms! La Leche League of Lincoln will be showing the movie ‘Baby Baby Oh Baby’ and providing breastfeeding information and answering questions. Attendees will receive informational packets to take home. Sundays, April 14 -May 4, 6pm-8:45pm Lamaze Express Plus - 4 week series at Saint Elizabeth Regional Medical Center, saintelizabethonline.com. Four session course emphasizes active participation of both partners and provides childbirth preparation. Learn a variety of childbirth techniques for relaxation, breathing and coping with labor. Other topics covered will be: Medications/types of anesthesia, the labor and delivery process and postpartum care. Films are included. Discussion and practice time may be limited. $65/couple Sunday, April 14, 6:30pm-7:45pm Another Baby is Coming Soon (ages 3-5) at Saint Elizabeth Regional Medical Center, saintelizabethonline.com. Your soon to be sibling (ages 3-5) will know how special their new role will be as a big brother or sister. They will learn basic information on what happens when mom goes to the hospital and how they can help with baby. A tour of the birth center is included. Parents attend with their child(ren). Each child will receive a “Big Brother or Big Sister” t-shirt! $15/per family

demonstrations of the three most popular styles of baby carriers available. Learn helpful tips and tricks for making you and your little one as comfortable and safe as can be, no matter their age or stage! Just for dropping by receive a 20% off coupon to any one item in the store! Sunday, April 20, 9:30am or 11am Easter Egg Hunt! During Sunday School Horizons Community Church, horizonschurch.org

During morning services kids Sunday School classes will have a special Easter Egg Hunt! Friday, April 25 “Monsters INK!” at Lincoln Children’s Museum, 1420 P St., 402-477-4000, lincolnchildrensmuseum.org Create your own school of scary, furry monster mash fun. A day of art, adventure and animation! Members: $60; Non Members: $75 Saturday, April 26, 9:30am-4:30pm Astronomy Day at UNL-Nebraska State Museum in Morrill Hall, 14th & U St., Lincoln; 472-2642; museum.unl.edu Full day of activities about space and science. Learn about planets, telescopes, space travel, nanotechnology and more. Saturday, April 26 Nature Fun Day at Pioneers Park Nature Center, 3201 S. Coddington, 402-441-8709 This will be a family event hosted by the Friends of Pioneers Park Nature Center. Details are still being determined. Please contact the Nature Center after February 1st to learn more. Monday, April 28 Preschool Play Days (ages 3-5) Garden Party at Lincoln Children’s Museum, 1420 P St., 402477-4000, lincolnchildrensmuseum.org This brand new one-day camp concept is held on days when the Museum is closed to the public, giving your camper exclusive access to the exhibits! Through activities, story time and hands-on projects, Museum Education Director Miss Flowers will explore a variety of themes with campers. Cost is $50/Members, $65/Non Members. Register online or at Welcome Desk. Mondays, Wednesdays, April 28-May 28, 7pm-8pm Pregnancy Exercise at Saint Elizabeth Regional Medical Center, saintelizabethonline.com A 4-week session that meets every Monday and Wednesday. Exercises specifically designed to prepare your body for birth. Low-impact movement for safety during pregnancy. Taught by a nationally certified pregnancy exercise instructor. Cost is $24 LUX Center for the Arts 2601 N. 48th St.; 402-466-8692; luxcenter.org

Ages 5-9 Sat., Feb. 15, 22, Mar. 1, 8, 10-11:30am Mix Media Mania—NEW! This class will include one project in each art media: drawing, painting, printmaking, and ceramics. $56/LUX members (nonmembers/$70) WYMIX-02 4 weeks

Wednesday, April 16, 9:15-10:00am Paint-n-Play at Art Planet, 402-610-2295; artplanetlincoln.com. Storybook based art lessons will engage your little one’s (ages 2-5, with parent) imagination while building prereading skills. $10/student/class. Foster parents and their fostered preschoolers can attend class for free! Register by Monday for class on Wednesday at www.artplanetlincoln.com

Sat., Feb. 15, 22, Mar. 1, 8, 1-2:30pm Drawing 102 In this class we will expand your child’s drawing skills with lessons on gesture, contour, and proportion. Children will also work from a photograph to complete a large drawing finished in pastels. $52/LUX members (nonmembers/$65) WYPNT-04 4 weeks

Saturday, April 19, 1pm-4pm Wearing Your Baby at MilkWorks, 5930 South 58th, 402-423-6402. An open house event for the novice and experienced babywearer! Free

Sat., Feb. 15, 22, Mar. 1, 8, 1-2:30pm Doing Dishes: Clay Plates, Cups, & Bowls— NEW! Dishes your kids will want to do! This class focuses on how to make food-safe dishes that

Lincoln Kids! your family can use. $60/LUX members (nonmembers/$75) WYCER-04 4 weeks Sat., Feb. 15, 22, Mar. 1, 8, 3-4:30pm Barnyard Bonanza: Animals in Clay —NEW!

IAny animal is an option in this class where your child will sculpt their favorite creatures out of clay. $60/LUX members (non-members/$75) WYCER-05 4 weeks Sat., Feb. 15, 22, Mar. 1, 8, 3-4:30pm Superhero Design, WYMIX-03 4 weeks In this mixed media class your child will design their own superhero. Students will create all the necessary accessories: masks, capes, and costumes, making their superhero come to life! $52/LUX members (non-members/$65) Sat., Mar. 22, 29, Apr. 5, 12, 10-11:30am Painting101—NEW! In this beginner’s class your child will go crazy with color as they learn how to mix and apply paint. They will work with tempera, watercolors, and acrylics. $52/LUX members (non-members/$65) WYPNT-06 4 weeks Sat., Mar. 22, 29, Apr. 5, 12, 1-2:30pm Barnyard Bonanza: Animals in Clay —NEW!

Any animal is an option in this class where your child will sculpt their favorite creatures out of clay. $60/LUX members (non-members/$75) WYCER-07 4 weeks Sat., Mar. 22, 29, Apr. 5, 12, 1-2:30pm

Sat., Mar. 22, 29, Apr. 5, 12, 10-11:30am Tweens on Wheels 2: Slab-Bottom Forms—NEW!

We will focus on creating bottomless forms on the wheel, which will allow us to make vessels in a variety of shapes. $60/LUX members (nonmembers/$75) WYCER-09 4 weeks Sat., Mar. 22, 29, Apr. 5, 12, 1-2:30pm Pencil Pushers Learn how to draw like a master and make studies in contour, gesture, value and proportion while creating large, intricate drawings that make use of all these skills. $52/LUX members (non-members/$65) WYPNT-09 4 weeks Sat., Mar. 22, 29, Apr. 5, 12, 3-4:30pm Incredible Ink: Screen Printing, 4 weeks You know that t-shirt you love to wear—the one with your favorite band or the cutest cat—that’s a screen print! In this class you will print your own designs on t-shirts and paper. $52/LUX members (non-members/$65) WYPRT-02

HS & Adult Classes Tues., Feb. 18, 25, Mar. 4, 11, 6:30-9pm Painting for Beginners: Painting a Series Learn contemporary painting techniques in a class meant for beginners. Bring an object from home and paint it three different ways while learning about color mixing, paint application, and rendering form with color and value. $80/ LUX members (non-members/$100) WPNT-04 4 weeks

Eyes, Ears, and Noses: How to Draw Faces—NEW!

Learn to draw realistic faces! Each week we will focus on a different facial feature and over the course of the class your child will create several portraits. Beginning artists are welcome! Instructor: Heather Davis $52/LUX members (non-members/$65) WYPNT-07 4 weeks Sat., Mar. 22, 29, Apr. 5, 12, 3-4:30pm BAM! Clay Superheroes—NEW! In this class your child will sculpt their own superheroes and super villains while learning how to work with clay. $60/LUX members (non-members/$75) WYCER-08 4 weeks Sat., Mar. 22, 29, Apr. 5, 12, 3-4:30pm Pop-Up Art—NEW! Create unique drawings that spring off the page. Make books and cards using basic pop-up techniques. $52/LUX members (nonmembers/$65) WYPNT-08 4 weeks

Ages 10-13 Sat., Feb. 15, 22, Mar. 1, 8, 10-11:30am Tweens on Wheels Work on the potter’s wheel to form bowls, mugs, and vases while exploring the exciting possibilities of clay. $60/LUX members (nonmembers/$75) WYCER-06 4 weeks Sat., Feb. 15, 22, Mar. 1, 8, 10-11:30am Fused Glass 101 Combine colorful pieces of glass to create sun catchers, magnets and tiles. Projects will be fused in a kiln. $56/LUX members (nonmembers/$70) WYMIX-04 4 weeks Sat., Feb. 15, 22, Mar. 1, 8, 1-2:30pm Large-Scale Painting, 4 weeks Students will create individual, oversized works on paper using acrylic and watercolor paints, and work together to create a large collaborative painting that will be displayed at the LUX. $52/ LUX members (non-members/$65) WYPNT-05 Sat., Feb. 15, 22, Mar. 1, 8, 3-4:30pm Mixed Media Mania for Tweens—NEW! This class will include one project in each art media: drawing, painting, printmaking, and ceramics. $56/LUX members (nonmembers/$70) WYMIX-05 4 weeks

Wed., Feb. 19, 26, Mar. 5, 12, 19, 26, 6:30-9pm

Throwing & Handbuilding—NEW! Get the best of both worlds; use wheel throwing and handbuilding together to make complex and larger forms. We will make teapots, oval serving dishes and more. This class has much to offer to both beginning and intermediate students. $148/LUX members (non-members /185) WCER-03 6 weeks Mon. Mar. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, Apr. 7, 6:30-9pm Mix-Media Sculpture—NEW! We will explore alternative materials to create casted works and found object assemblages. Come with a vision and we’ll help you to find the right materials to bring your idea to life. New to sculpture, no worries! All levels are welcome. $112/LUX members (non-members/$140) WMIX-01 6 weeks Tues., Mar. 18, 25, Apr. 1, 8, 15, 22, 6:30-9pm Alternative Material Jewelry—NEW! Explore ways of integrating limitless materials in your jewelry through hot and cold metal connections. Fabric, plastic, thread, and paper are possible additions and the list goes on! Beginning and intermediate jewelers are welcome. $112/LUX members (nonmembers/$140) WMET-01 6 weeks Wed., Mar. 19, 26, Apr. 2, 9, 16, 23, 6:30-9pm Intaglio Etching, 6 weeks For beginning and experienced printmakers, this class is for anyone who loves to draw, paint, or simply looking to try something new. The class will cover traditional printmaking techniques: etching, drypoint, and the use of soft and hard grounds on copper plates. All materials are provided. $112/LUX members (non-members/$140) WPRT-01 Wed. Apr. 2, 9, 16, 30, May 7, 14, 6:30-9pm Go Pro Porcelain , 6 weeks Cultivate your throwing skills while using porcelain, a clay body rich in history and possibilities. We will review the basics of wheel throwing and graduate into more complex forms and processes. Beginners and more experienced potters are welcome. $148/LUX members (nonmembers/$185) WCER-05 NO CLASS April 23

Thurs., Apr. 17, 24, May 1, 8, 15, 22, 6:30-9pm Open-Source 3D-Modeling Software—NEW!

3D-modeling software used to create simple objects for 3D printing. This course is suitable for students with no prior experience. Finished models can be outsourced for printing. Software is free, but students are required to bring their own laptop. $100/LUX members (nonmembers/$125) WMIX-02 6 weeks Tues., April 29, May 6, 13, 20, 27, Jun. 3, 6:30-8:30pm Art Sampler for the Intimidated, 6 weeks Each week will feature a new instructor and new art media. Tackle beginning level art projects in pottery, painting, drawing, glass fusing and bookmaking. $100/LUX members (non-members/125) WMIX-03

HS & Adult Workshops Sun., Mar. 23, 1-3:30pm WCER-09 Sat., Apr. 26, 10am-12:30pm WCER-10 1-day Wheel Throwing Workshop—NEW! Give the potter’s wheel a “spin” in this one-day workshop for people who have never throw and want to learn how. No finishing or firing will be included in this experience, but if you sign up for a 6-week ceramics class, the workshop price will be credited to the tuition of your next class. $24/LUX members (non-members/$30) Tues., Feb. 4, 7-9pm Chocolate Casting—NEW!, WMIX-04 In this 1-day workshop create small, handmade objects that we will use to create molds for chocolate casting. We will demo how to prepare the chocolate and use the molds so you can make your own chocolates at home. $40/LUX members (non-members/$50) Sat., Feb. 8, 1-4pm Hot Wax/Cool Art: Learn to Paint with Encaustics, $64/LUX members (nonmembers/$80) WPNT-02. Play and experiment with encaustics: a versatile media that can be layered, sculpted, and combined with collage materials. All supplies provided. Beginners and returning students welcome. Sun., Feb. 9, 1-4pm Collage & Photo Transfers with Encaustics Turn your drawings and photos into amazing artwork by adding encaustic paint, oil pastels and graphite to make complex and unusual images. Students are encouraged to bring images. All supplies provided. Beginners and returning students welcome. $64/LUX members (non-members/$80) WPNT-03 Fri. Mar. 14, 7-9pm AND Sat., Mar. 15, 10am-2pm

Terra Sigillata Workshop—NEW! Over the 2-day workshop learn methods for preparing and applying terra sigillata, a clay slip available in a variety of colors that gives a soft sheen to your pots. We will supply 8” ceramic tiles to work with or bring your own bone dry ceramic pieces. $80 /LUX members (non-members/$100) WCER-04

Date Nights Fri., Feb. 14, 7-9pm, Pottery Wheel, WFAM-12

Sat., Feb. 15, 7-9pm, Fused Glass, WFAM-13 Bring your date, spouse, or partner for an evening of romance and art making. Whether it’s your first date or your 50th, you’ll spend a creative evening playing in clay, creating a print, or collaborating on a painting. Materials and snacks provided. Register together with 4 or more couples to create your own Date Night. $50/couple (no membership discount)

Girls’ Night Out Fri., Feb. 7, 7-9pm, Jewelry, WFAM-11 - Get your friends together for an inspiring girls’ night out! Materials and snacks provided. 5 or more ladies may create their own Girls’ Night Out when registering as a group. $25/person (no membership discount)

Family Workshops Sat., Feb. 8, 4-5pm Fused Glass Hearts Discover glass fusing and make Valentine’s Day heart sun catchers as a family. Appropriate for all ages. $16 for 1 adult and 1 child WFAM-05 Feb. 13, 6:30-8pm, Ceramic Love Bugs, WFAM-06 Feb. 14, 6:30-8pm, Ceramic Love Bugs, WFAM-07 Mar. 13, 6:30-8pm, Painting, WFAM-08

Pizza & Picasso We will provide pizza and a fun family-friendly project while you and your loved ones bring the creativity! Space is limited so reserve your spot ahead of time. $40/session for up to 4 family member members, $10 each additional person April 10, 6:30-8:00pm, Ceramics, WFAM-10 Members Only Pizza & Picasso Enjoy this session free with a family membership or above. Space is limited

ONGOING Ager Play Center 1300 S. 27th St.; $2.75/person 12 months & older, 441-6788. M-F 9am-5pm; (next door to zoo) Play space for small children, toddlers and all ages. Reading area, 2-level play structure, 3 ball pits, slides and a maze of tunnels, riding toys and wagons. Children must be 3 or older and under 48” tall to play in structure. Tuesday Moms Club, 9:30-11am at Lincoln Children’s Museum, 1420 P St., 402-477-4000, lincolnchildrensmuseum.org Social interaction for children and parents. Discuss relevant topics and exchange tips on parenting. Includes free coffee and treats with your membership or paid admission. Every Tuesday, 10:30 a.m.–11:30am Paint Yourself Silly: Preschool Story & Paint Time, 4107 Pioneer Woods Dr. Ste 103. Story and learn a new technique as we paint a project that pertains to book. Cost range between $8$14 depending on the project. 402-486-1010

Sat. Mar. 29, 10am-12pm AND Sun. Mar. 30, 2-4pm

Fabric Painting & Dyeing—NEW!, 2 days Experiment with pattern and color. Learn techniques to create controlled and spontaneous layers of color on fabric you can use for future sewing projects. Students are asked to bring their own cotton fabric. $64/LUX members (non-members/$80) WFIB-02 Sat., April 26, 2-5pm Monotype Workshop Monotypes are a printmaking process that combines printmaking and painting techniques to produce one-of-a-kind prints with water and oil based inks. This workshop will encourage experimentation; beginners are welcome! $64/ LUX members (non-members/$80) WPRT-02

Tuesdays & Thursdays Clinic with a Heart, 1701 S. 17th St. 5:307:30pm; clinicwithaheart.org, FREE Wednesdays in February, March & April from 10 a.m.-Noon SmockTales at Lincoln Children’s Museum, 1420 P St., 402-477-4000, lincolnchildrensmuseum. org. Each week features a different story and project in the Artist’s Studio. Thanks to support from Ameritas, in February, we’ll celebrate dental health month and in March we’ll celebrate vision awareness.

Spring 2014 Page 37

Lincoln Kids! Every Thursday, Thursday y, 1-3pm New MOMS Group Group at Saint Elizabeth Regional Medical Center Center,, www.saintelizabethonline.com www.saintelizabethonline.com For expectant and an nd new moms and babies. This FREE discussion n group is held at 6900 L Street, classroom C. Led Leed by Certified Childbirth and Breastfeeding Ed Educators. ducators. Beverages Provided. Please join us. N NO registration required. Every Friday y, 9:30–11:30am 9:30–11:30am Friday, Pr eschool Playd days Solid Rock Gymnastics Preschool Playdays Parent at 610 Hill St. Pa arent supervised playtime. Free Play in both main n Gym and PreSchool gym. $5/ free). child (adults free e). solidrockgymnastics.com/ 11pm Saturday Nightss at 8 - 1 1pm Hyde Memorial Memorrial Observatory, Observatory, Holmes Lake, three telescopes, teelescopes, video programs, volunteers. spacelaser.com knowledgeable v spacelaser.com Indi igo Bridge Books Indigo 701 P St., Ste. 102; 102 2; 402-477-7770, Creamery Bldg. Haymarket; i Haymark in H k ket; indigobridgebooks.com i di b id b k

Mondays & T Tuesdays u uesdays from 10-11am. 10-11am. Story time session incl ludes music, games, crafts. includes Monday edneesday y, Fridays, 1 1:30am-1pm. Monday,, W Wednesday, 11:30am-1pm. Serving soup and d bread. Food is available payas-you-can basiss rather than with a set menu price so everyonee can af fford f Table. a afford to sit at The Table. Second Fridays 10-11am Fridays,, 10-11am IndiZOO features featurees animal-related stories, crafts and the animals! animals! Kids meet a local animal in a safe, hands-on n environment with a trained animal expert to t teach them about eating, sleeping and soci ial habits. social Saturdays, 10-11am 10-11am Bilingual English h-Spanish Story Time Time English-Spanish Bring the kiddoss down for a story in English with Spanish vocabulary, vo ocabulary, a game of Spanish BINGO and a related reelated craft. While story time is intended for agess 4-8, most children find one of the activities fun n and educational. Lincoln City Libraries Lincoln lincolnlibraries.org lin ncolnlibraries.org Anderson… …3635 Touzalin…441-8540 Touzalin…441-8540 o Anderson…3635 Bennett Martin…136 Marttin…136 S. 14th…441-8566 Bethany…1810 Bethany…1810 N. Cotner…4441-8550 Eiseley…1530 Eiseley…1530 Superior…441-4250 Gere…2400 Gere…2 2400 S. 56th…441-8560 South…2675 South…2675 South St.…441-8570 Walt…6701 Waalt…6 6701 S. 14th…441-4460 Williams…5000 Williams…500 00 Mike Scholl St.…441-8580

Baby Storytime Storytimes es at W Walt alt Thursdays, 10:30-11am, 10:30 0-11am, interactive parentchild time designed to promote early literacy, literacy, language develop pment and a love of books for development birth to 18 month months. hs. Pr eschool Storytime Story ytime Preschool For ages 3-5. Cal ll for information. Call T o oddler Time Time Toddler Parents and children child dren ages 18-36 months: enjoy reading aloud, singing, s playing, and dancing together! Call for times and locations at Anderson, Eisele ey y, Gere, or Walt. Walt. a Eiseley, Storytimes for Families F Family Storytimes Storytimes are intended for parents and their preschool to to elementary-age children and include crafts. Call C for times and locations at Gere, South, or Walt. Walt. a All Ages Storytimes Storytiimes for Families at Walt Walt Every Saturday from 10:30-11:30am. 10:30-11:30am. Includes crafts and other aactivities. ArtPlanet A tPl t 402-610-2295; 402-610-2 2295; artplanetlincoln.com

Fisrt Saturday each e month, 1-3pm Family Art Dayzz at the Planet: Planet: Families enjoy making art together. together. A different diffferent f seasonally themed project is planned for each event for all ages. Cost is is $20/first child, siblings are additional $5, pa parents arents are free! Register online.

Page 38 • www.lincolnkidsinc.com

Wednesday Wednesday mornings at 9:15-10am 9:15-10aam Preschool Preschool Paint-n-Play: Storybook Storybo ook based art lessons for you and your preschooler preschooller (ages 2-4). One class at $15/class or monthly y registration cost of $50/month! Siblings can attend for an additional $5/class. After School Art Clubs Thursday. T rravel to a different diffferent f Every Thursday. Travel country year-long trip around aroun nd the world! while taking a year-long h At each destination, explore the history of the country’s culture as it relates to artt and artists. country’s eens e (13+) Open Studio Art: Just for T Teens Tuesday u y, 6-7pm for students studentts who like to Every Tuesday, S work independently to make art. Students may make full use of the studio and supplies with Director supervision and advice. No planned instruction is given. MilkW Works o MilkWorks 5930 S. 58th, Ste W; W; 402-423-6402; 402-423-6402; Register and times at milkwor milkworks.org rks.org

All About Breastfeeding Breastfeeding Learn For expectant moms and dads. d breastfeeding basics, as well as a the most common challenges that mothers motherrs face when breastfeeding, and how to get support. su upport. Fee is $25. Includes our Return to Work Work o class. Return to W ork Work For new mothers returning to work wo ork or school outside the home while breastfeeding. breastfeediing. Learn the “ins and outs” of pumping, storing g milk, federal regulations and working with your yo our day care provider t fee for our provider.. This class is included in the All About Breastfeeding class. You You o may attend while pregnant, or after baby is born. (Fee is $10 if not signed up for AAB class.) classs.) Intr oducing Solids & Making g Your Your o Own Introducing Baby Food Perfect for parents of babies who wh ho are 3 to 9 months old. This class covers tipss on readiness signs, safety awareness, introducing introducin ng new foods and making your own baby food (save money and go or ganic if you want to!). Fee Feee is $10. organic Mom Talk Talk Bring baby and join other breastfeeding breastfeeeding mothers for companionship and to share breastfeeding information. FREE. No registratio on required. registration T win w T alk a Twin Talk Free Support for moms of multiples! multiples! If you are expecting twins, or breastfeeding breastfeedin ng multiples, j join d support. No other moms for learning and registration Older siblings welcom registration. me me. welcome. Baby W eigh Station Weigh 7 days a week - Drop in and weigh weig gh your baby at MilkW Works o during open hours. W MilkWorks Wee will teach you how to use our baby scale and d answer basic questions you have about weight gain. We We are a well-child facility y, so no need to o worry about facility, sick children in the waiting room! FREE. W eigh & Stay at LMEP, LMEP P, 46th & Valley Valley a Weigh Road, Rm 230. - Drop in to weigh your you ur baby, baby, visit with a Lactation Consultant and ask a questions about your baby’s baby’s latch or weight gain. g There is no fee for this service. All moms welcome. w C First-Plymouth, UCC 2000 D Street; 402-476-7550; firstp firstplymouth.org plymouth.org

1st W Wednesdays ednesdays e Pr eschool Mom’ Outt, 6:30-8pm Preschool Mom’ss Night Out, Speakers, arts, crafts, parenting skills. RSVP deb@firstplymouth.org deb@firstplymouth.or g for child care. c No cost. 3rd 3 d Fridays F id Preschool Family Fun, 6-8:30 p.m. various locations. Seasonal themes and family faamily fun for families with infants-preschoolers infants-preschoolers.. 2nd Thursdays Pet Grief Group in Resource Room. An interfaith support group for anyone anyon ne mourning a recent passing of an animal compa anion. companion.

Lincolln Berean Berean Church Church Lincoln g 6400 S. 70th St.;; 430-4834; lincolnberean.or lincolnberean.org Fridays Celebrate Recovery, Recovery y, biblically based 12-step recovery program m for overcoming addictive, compulsive and dysfunctional d behaviors. Free childcare/kid activities: acctivities: infants-8th grade. 6:50PM, Praise & Worship. Worship. o 8PM, Open Share small groups. 9PM, 9PM M, “Crosstalk” Fellowship and snacks in Cof fffeeH House. 402-483-6512 CoffeeHouse.

Out-of-Town Out-of-T To own n Events Homestead Natio National onal Monument 8523 W Hw wy. 4, Beatrice, W.. State Hwy. 402-223-3524; np ps.gov/home nps.gov/home

G Seay’s Schoolhouse Performance Greenblatt & Seay’s S Irissh music on Series features a concert of Irish G g and playing Greenblatt & Seay 9 will be singing including fiddle, a variety of instruments, including p folk harp, guitar, guitar, hammered pennywhistle, d dulcimer , and recorders. Traditional Traditionaal Irish tunes dulcimer, w be featured, along with some some Greenblatt will & Seay originals inspired by thee great Irish t dow wnstairs, and traditions. The concert will be downstairs, f a a chance followed by light refreshments, and t chat and even jam with the performers. performers to $ seniior citizens, $10/adults, $5/students and senior a $1/children. Seating is limited. limiteed. For more and information, write to Greenblatt Greenblaatt & Seay, Seay y, information, T Old Schoolhouse, P.O. P.O. . Box 671, Avoca, Avoca, v The N 402-275 5-3221, or eNebraska, 68307, or call 402-275-3221, m them at debby@greenblattandseay.com. debby@greenblattand dseay.com. mail

Sunday ch 9, 9 2:30pm Sunday,, Mar March Irish Music Concert Concert in the Old Avoca, Av voca, Nebraska Schoolh house. Schoolhouse.

Calendar listings are FREEEEEE! lincolnkidsinc.com Support Gr Groups oup ps Answers4Families Information, opportunities opportu unities for dialogue, education, and support for families, children and adults with disabilities, individuals over 60, and a providers, including state and nanational resources, supp port group schedules, organizations, organizations, support and tips for coping with w a variety of issues. Free database (nrrs.ne.gov) of Nebraska Nebraaska service providers. Helpline, 800746-8420; Answers4Families.org Answers4F Families.org API of Lincoln Meet ting for Parents Parents and Caregivers Caregivers Meeting http://www w..orgsites.co om/ne/api/index.html http://www.orgsites.com/ne/api/index.html Meetings are the fourt th Saturday of the Month at 10:15 am fourth at Gere Library 0 S 56th Steet. The mission of AttachAttachLibrary,, 2400 ment Parenting Intern national (API) is to promote parenting International practices that create strong, healthy emotional bonds bebetween children and their theeir parents. We We believe these practices nurture and fulfill a child’s child’s need for trust, empathy, empathy, and af fffection, providing a lifelong foundation for healthy, healthy, enenaffection, during relationships. Through T education, support, advocacy and research, API seeks seek ks to strengthen families and increase awareness of the importance imp portance of secure attachment, ultiultimately helping to reduce redu uce or prevent child abuse, behavioral disorders, criminal ac ts and other serious social problems. acts Autism Family Netw work Network A support organization organizatio on alternating between fun and inforinformative events. Cathy Martinez, Board President at afnlinafnlincoln@aol.com Cancer Support Gr o oups Groups V aarious cancer suppo ort groups and services for patients, Various support family members, friends. frieends. To To find out more, contact the American Cancer So ociety, 5733 S 34th Street, Ste 500, Society, 402-423-4888 Charlie Brown’s Brown’s Kid ds Grief Support Gr oup Kids Group 1st & 3rd Thursdays, 6-8 p.m. Grief support group for chil chil-dren ages 3-18 who have haave experienced the death of a parent. Caregivers meet at same saame time. Youth Yo outh share their feelings through books, books discus ssions art, ssions, art writing and remembrance discussions, projects. Sheridan Lu utheran, 6955 Old Cheney, Cheney, 483-1845, Lutheran, Bev Prucha, B3549@ @aol.com B3549@aol.com Fibr omyalgia Group Group p Fibromyalgia No meetings. See info o at www.tjkeller.net/lincolnsupport/ www.tjkeller.net/lincolnsupport/ Good Neighbor Mot hers Offering Moms Support Mothers Mom’ p 1st & 3rd Thursdays at Good Neigh Mom’ss support group Neigh-bor Community Center, Centeer, 2617 Y Street, 402-477-4173. AnAngel, 423-61 17 423-6117 Heartland Home Sch hoolers Schoolers For home schooling families faamilies in the Lincoln area, regardless of religious beliefs. Providing P encouragement for moms; activities for home schooled s students, including skating parties, spelling bee, sscience fair and more. homeschoollife.com/ne/heartland// Help for Attention Deficit D Disorders First T u uesday, 6-7:30PM. 6-7:30P PM. Parenting network. Creative/chalCreative/chalTuesday, lenging activities for children, support/education for parparents. Family meal pro ovided. 5903 Walker Waalker Ave., Ave., v 471-3700 provided. La Leche League of Lincoln La Leche League (LLLofNE.org) (LLLofNE.org) L offffers a monthly SeSeoffers ries Meeting, a weekly weeklly Breastfeeding Café, and a monthly meeting for mothers of o toddlers. Free of charge. charge. Thursdays South Group meets 3rd Thursdays 6:30PM, Aldersgate United Methodist Church, Ch hurch, 8320 S. St.; 450-3240; robroberts1715@gmail.com erts1715@gmail.com;; Friday Breastfeeing Cafe, 10:30AM at Eiseley Branch Library, Library, 1530 Superior St., 402-5408568, brooke@thousandhills.org; brooke@thousaandhills.org; Toddler Toddler o Group, 10AM, W aarren United Metho odist Church, 1205 N. 45th St., Abi, Warren Methodist 402-465-8065, webhe enke@windstream.net webhenke@windstream.net Lincoln Area Area Famili es with Multiples Families For families welcoming welcomiing multiples into their lives, and the joys and challenges th hat come with them. Find support at that 434-6533; coordinator.lafm@gmail.com; coordinato or.lafm@gmail.com; lincolnmultiples. or g; LAFM, P.O. P.O. Box x 591 1, Lincoln, 68505-591 1 org; 5911, 68505-5911

M M.O.M.S. (Meeting Other Mothers) G Lutheran Church, 2225 W ashington, T uesdays, u Grace Washington, Tuesdays, 9:3011AM, conversation, speakers, crafts, snacks, snack ks, service 11AM, p partiies & field trips. projects & various topics; also holiday parties D MeDaycare available: $3/1 child and $1 each additional. Meliissa Nickolaus, 464-6921 lissa M (Moms Offering Moms Support) Clu Club ub of Lincoln MOMS We We are the Lincoln chapter of the International Intern national MOMS Club®, C a non-profit organization organization specifically specificaally for at-home moms. m Each month we have several different difffferen nt events for our membersgroups, mom’s m b b kf t book breakfasts, b k clubs, l b play l group ps, mom’ ’s night i ht o to name just a few! Our goal is to support sup pport each other out through th hrough friendship, group activities, and service serrvice projects in th he Lincoln area. http://momsclublincoln.weebly.com http://momsclublincoln.w weebly.com the M After Six Montessori F parents of children 5-9 years, Lincoln Lincoln Montessori For S 489-8110 School, 489-8110 M Preschoolers) MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) 1 3rd Wednesdays, Wednesdays, e n Church, 9300 1st, Southwood Lutheran S 40th St. (south of 40th & Yankee Yankee a R 9-11:15AM. 9-11:15AM. S. Hill Rd.) S Speakers, crafts, book club, playgroups, babysitting coo and activities for children. Daycare available. av vailable. southsouthop, w o o d l u t h e r a n . o rg / g e t - c o n n e c t e d / c h i l d r e n - a n d - f a m i l i e s / woodlutheran.org/get-connected/children-and-families/ m h f h l or Jennifer: J if 402-328-9247; 402 328 9247 mopsmothers-of-pre-schoolers jeennifermchargue@hotmail.com jennifermchargue@hotmail.com 1 & 3rd Thursdays, 9-11 9-11 a.m., New Covenant Co ovenant Church, 1st 6 prog gram to encourencour6000 S. 84th St. Non-denominational program a equip, and help women become the best b age, moms they c be. Build friendships; have fun with h other moms. can Women o kindergaarten are invited Women with children birth through kindergarten o join. Childcare provided. All children are arre cared for in a to n exp perience love in nurturing and fun atmosphere. They will experience Becky, 402-484- 5033; a preschool like setting. $6/meeting. Becky, m mopsnewcov .blogspot.com mopsnewcov.blogspot.com M MOTHER ME Weekly e mommies group to support mothers motthers of infants Weekly th h hrough h pre-schoolers. h l l f moms to o come and d talk, lk through A place for laaugh and/or cry if they need to. We We meet in n the evening for laugh m meeetings. We We have moms who are unable to attend daytime meetings. n us at any time! a love of fun, and love for new moms to join Tuesdays from 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm. Insidee Trinity Trinity r ChiroTuesdays Chirop in the Inspire ME meeting space att 3120 O Street. practic C inform mation Contact julia@circleme.me for more information M Mourning Hope Grief Support 4 hope@mourninghopee.org or visit 402-488-8989, email hope@mourninghope.org m mourninghope.or g mourninghope.org M Group Mom Support Group Wednesdays, e Bryan Health Family Birthpla ace at Institute Wednesdays, Birthplace f W omen’ o s & Children’s Children’s Health. Facilitated Facilitatted by lactation for Women’s c l 1 30 2 30 402 481 103 consultants. 1:30-2:30PM. 402-481-7103 O Group Open Hearts Adoption Support Group F c Fellowship for families who have adopted children; family c Party, Ethnic E Party, centered events (such as Christmas Party, Party, P Mother ’s Tea, Tea, e Harvest Party). Supported Suppo orted through Picnic, Mother’s d especcially if you dues and gifts. All families welcome, especially w Datees and locations want to find out more about adoption! Dates v , contact Sherie Quirie, 465-5841 or at vary a lincoln_openlincoln_openvary, h heartsadoption.blogspot.com P ents of Children Par Children with Feeding Difficu ulties Parents Difficulties M Monthly , lower level Saint Elizabeth Regio onal Medical Monthly, Regional C Center , 575 S. 70th St. Bringing parents of children with Center, f diffficulties f experieences, helpful feeding difficulties together to share experiences, h p hints, recipes, and information on feeding programs/clinics n the surrounding area. Visit Visit bigtent.com/groups/feedingbigtent.com/groups/feedingin s Mid dwest; Jennifer souls; Facebook at Feeding Souls of the Midwest; Jennifer-M McHar gue@hotmail.com; Jennifer 328-924 47 McHargue@hotmail.com; 328-9247 C Clubs & Organizations T Prairie Astronomy Astronomy Club The L Tuesday Tuesday of the month, open to public,, 7:30PM. Hyde Last M Observatory, south side of Holmes Holm mes Lake. praipraiMemorial Observatory, r rieastronomyclub.or g rieastronomyclub.org

Lincoln Kids!

Life at Work is a Real Zoo! By John Chapo, President/CEO of the Lincoln Children’s Zoo

run into the house yelling, “Mom! Mom!, it’s Chirper! He’s ok! I found him! He made it through the storm!” Some 46 years ago as a 10year-old-boy living in the country outside of South Bend Indiana, the memory is still strong. The memory of finding the young robin I had hand raised from a baby. He was okay, he was safe, as he had stayed outside overnight to “grow up” and to become a wild robin learning how to take care of himself in the wild. However, it was unknown that a typical northern Indiana thunderstorm was going to hit the wooded area where we lived that very night we chose to encourage him to fledge from the “nest”. As the morning cleared and I went in search of Chirper, I heard his familiar call, and he immediately flew down and landed on my head. His traditional behavior of returning to “mom” when he was hungry. He immediately demanded his worms as obviously surviving the thunderstorm had greatly increased his appetite. Chirper, Chirper 2, Bob and Carol the box turtles, El the Elongated tortoise and so many other animals were a part of my young life living in South Bend, Indiana. I grew up with a swamp

crowded with a brother, the box turtles lived in a box under my bed at night, but during the day the box slid out into the middle of the room where the turtles could sun themselves in the sunshine coming through the window. Indeed my love for animals and desire to become an animal professional go way back to my youth and I am to this day grateful to parents who put

Welcome to a new Lincoln Kids! newspaper series featuring stories from John Chapo. Read about the childhood events that started his interest in animals through his later life as a father taking his kids to “work”. It’s never a dull moment at the Lincoln Children’s Zoo! across the street and a forest behind the house. And I spent thousands of hours immersed in those wild places. I concocted a long handle net making me able to catch painted turtles on landings and as they moved through the duckweed engrossed swamp. I would wade into the water ever so stealthfully in hopes of catching a turtle to add to my wading pool collection behind the garage. I was a fortunate young Hoosier whose parents encouraged my interest in animals. Mom took us to the library every Friday after school and I always headed to the animal book section in the little branch library we used. Also mom and dad allowed me to gather a small collection of creatures. A dog, guinea pig, rabbit, caiman and turtles in numerous aquariums took up a large area of the family room in our basement. And in my bedroom upstairs because it was

Montessori on the farm enrollment starting at 18 months experienced teachers care for farm animals low child-to-adult ratios

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up with my interest. An interest they were convinced was a fleeting interest. Thanks Mom and Dad.

A perk of John’s Job is playing Train Engineer on the old Iron Horse Railway.

IG CONS

Sign Onlin Up e Now

SHOP!

SHOP.P. SE SHOP SELL. LL. REPEA REPEATZ ATZ T AS NECES NECESSARY. SARY. Spring/Summer Childr ren’s Consignment Ev E ent! Children’s Event! LOCATION TO BE ANNOUNCED

April 3rd - 6th • Clothes For Newborn Through Teen • Maternity Clothes • • Indoor/Outdoor Toys • Strollers/Car Seats • Easter Outfits • • Furniture • Nursery • Baby Gear • Books •

Annual Ad Adults’ ults’ Sale

April 11 11th-13th 1th-13th

Everything Ev erything you you love lo ove about Neat Neat R Repeatz, epeatz, b but ut ffor o g or grown-ups! rown-ups!

WWW.NEATREPEATZ.COM • 402.499.5884 •

Spring 2014 Page 39

Lincoln Kids!

“Funky Dog” by Bailey Hamilton, age 8, Hill Elementary School.

Art Gallery “Lincoln Kids” and “Hands” by Avry Victor, 8th grader, Cathedral of the Risen Christ

Page 40 • www.lincolnkidsinc.com

“I love Spring” by Nitya Haridas, Kindergarten, Morley Elementary.

Lincoln Kids!

“Untitled” Watercolor and Oil Pastel by Oliva Cook, age 7, from a birthday party at Art Planet

“Spring” Drawing and Poem by Vaishvika Balamurugan. age 8, Clinton, Elementary

Lux Center for the Arts Painted Animal Collages Class, at Highlands Academy

Spring Is spring a pretty season? Spring is here. There are flowers and trees. All the trees have lots of leaves! In the trees there are birds. On the ground there is dirt. I like the air– nice and warm. Come and play, it is a sunny day. It is so pretty. Now I know the reason why!

e c n a The D Shoppe Because you shop at

All Eyes Are On You! • Ballet • Pointe • Tap • Jazz • Lyrical • Hip Hop • Tumbling • Musical Theatre • Award Winning Competitive Company!

Dance wear, Active wear, Yoga & Pilates, Gymnastic wear, COUPON for 20% off Open: Mon.-Thur. 10-6,and Accessories Shoes, Tights one single Item! Fri.-Sat. 10-5 Expires 4/30/2014. Must present this ad. & Sunday 12-4

3841 South 48th • 402-466-1993 (Across From Union College)

Spring Into Dance! Spring 2014 Page 41

Lincoln Kids!

A Way Home By Charleen Engberg, Director of Volunteers and Education, Capital Humane Society

t Capital Humane Society, all the dogs and cats for adoption are microchipped. We know many lost pets are never found. Microchipping greatly increases the chances of pets and families being reunited. Collars with tags are a very good form of identification and should be placed on your dogs and cats. However, if pets lose their collar and tag, it will be hard to find out where the animal lives. Microchips are placed under the skin between the shoulder blades with a special needle. They are designed to last a pet’s lifetime. Microchips do not work like GPS. A lost pet that is brought in to an animal shelter or veterinarian’s office will need to be scanned with a special scanner. The scanner will read the radio waves from the chip. A unique num-

ber is displayed on the scanner for each pet. The microchip manufacturers have an 800 number that can be called to find out the owners contact information. The staff at the animal shelter can then contact the owner right away to let them know their pet has been found. Remember it is imperative that if you move or change phone numbers that you immediately contact the microchip company so they update your information in their database. Be sure to also keep up to date microchip information on file with Animal Control. “Recently, we had a lost dog brought in and it turned out to have been missing from his family in Iowa for more than a month,” said Lisa Spomer from Capital Humane Society. “Luckily the people who found the dog brought it to us and thanks to the microchip, we were able to get ahold of the dog’s owner. They

drove to Lincoln that night to claim him and were so happy he was okay.” “Remember, a lost animal may have a frantic owner looking for them,“ said Spomer. “If you find a pet, please feel free to bring it to Capital Humane Society to have us scan the pet for a microchip. There is not a charge and we are happy to help find the animal’s home, while you take care of them.” Veterinarians offer microchipping and are a great source of information about the technology. Even if your pet is microchipped, you will want to know what to do if he/she happens to get lost. Here are important steps: 1. Look for your pet right away. Don’t wait! Your cats need you to look for them too. Don’t assume they are off on a fun adventure. They need you to keep them safe at home. 2. Contact Capital Humane Society at 402-441-4488 and leave a lost report. Also visit the Admissions & Assessment Center at 2320 Park Boulevard to see if your pet is there.

3. Contact Animal Control at 402441-7900, a division of the CityCounty Health Department, and see if they have picked up your pet or have any reports. 4. Call the Lincoln Journal Star at 402-473-7373. They will place an ad in the lost & found section for free for six days. 5. Make posters including a picture and your contact information. Post them in your community and make sure all your neighbors know your pet is missing. 6. Make sure to check online sites like Craigslist’s lost & found and pet sections. So many pets are never claimed from animal shelters. Please be sure your pets can count on you to do all you can to find them if they happen to get away. It’s a crucial part of being a responsible and caring owner.

capitalhumanesociety.org Admissions & Assessment Center is at Pieloch Pet Adoption Center, 6500 S. 70th (near Home Depot)

I had to share this photo taken last October at Pug-o-Ween! The function was held in Omaha and attended by members of the

Lincoln Pug Club For more information on the Pug Club go to: meetup.com/lincolnpugclub/ Punk Pug

Pre-school Paint-n-Play, Summer Camps, After School Art Clubs, Open Studio for Teens, Birthday Parties, Pottery Dates, Saturdays in the Studio, & Family Art Dayz.

Art Studio offering weekly & monthly workshops for kids, families and adults with a focus on engaging kids with special needs in a fun, comfortable home-studio setting.

Tamara Kaye, BFA, M. Ed. Southeast Lincoln Location

402-610-2295 • artplanetlincoln.com Page 42 • www.lincolnkidsinc.com.net

Now registering for summer camps where students will encounter new concepts, materials and methods of art while being encouraged to explore new ideas and possibilities!

Lincoln Kids!

Elliott the Barred Owl By Andrea Faas, Naturalist, Pioneers Park Nature Center

hat is your favorite animal at the Nature Center? I try not to play favorites but I do love the birds of prey. Of those beautiful and strong birds the one I like best is Elliott. Elliott is a Barred Owl (Strix varia) that came to the Nature Center in 1999. Elliott, like all the birds of prey at the Nature Center, is permenantly injured and cannot be released into the wild. He is instead an educational ambassador that helps us to teach others about the wildlife and the habitats around us. Most days Elliott can be found hiding in the cedar tree in his enclosure along the trail. He’s hard to see with his excellent camouflage. If you look for the pair of dark eyes half way up the tree to the left of the trunk, he’s usually there.

wing. Even though One of the great he can’t fly, he can things I get to do as get around just fine. a Naturalist is take Sometimes when Elliott out to educaI’m holding Elliott tional programs and he may jump or fall events. I love holdoff of my glove. ing Elliott. Now I When that happens don’t “hold” Elliott he could hit the like someone would ground and get hurt hold a baby or but if I have a tight stuffed toy, that hold of his jesses he wouldn’t be very won’t fall all the safe. Even though photo by way to the ground. he looks so sweet Adrian Olivera When Elliott and I and fluffy it is go to programs, I important to remember he is a powerful bird of talk to and look at the audience, prey or raptor with a sharp beak but I also keep a close eye on and talons. Instead I have a large Elliott. I have to make sure he is thick leather glove that I wear and comfortable and not stressed. Elliott perches on my hand and Often I just enjoy looking closely arm. He has a hold of me while I at him. He has beautiful dark eyes am holding the leather straps or and amazing feathers. Some of the feathers on his face look like jesses that are tied to his ankles. Elliott has a wing injury that whiskers. I also respect Elliott, he resulted in the amputation of one is a wild animal and it is my job to

protect and care for him. If he is comfortable with me and an audience, he will perch nicely and let people examine him closely. We don’t often see owls in the wild and the opportunity to see one up close and get to know that owl is very special. I am so thankful that I can work with Elliott to help people learn about and care for wildlife and its habitat. If you have not met Elliott you should visit the Nature Center to see him and the other birds of prey. There are many amazing animals for you to discover and find your own favorite animal.

Spring 2014 Page 43

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• Storytime Stor ytime rreadings eadings a att llocal ocal B Barnes arnes & Noble Noble b bookstores ookstores an dL inco oln P ublic L ibrari r es and Lincoln Public Libraries activities att tthe Children’s Museum • Craft Craft ac tivities a he Lincoln Lincoln C hildren’s M useum College off De Dentistry Dental Day • UNMC UNMC C ollege o ntistr y De ntal D ay sponsor sponsor graders • Reading Reading event event with with LPS LPS second second g raders your att llocal Super Saver • Learn Learn about about healthy healthy ffoods oods ffor or y our tteeth eeth a ocal S uper S aver and Russ’s Market grocery a nd R uss’s M arket g rocer y sstores tores

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Learn a Learn about bout all all o ur N ation n al off o our National D e nt a l H ea l t h Dental Health M onth a nd Save Save Month and Y our Vision Vision Month Month Your e vents on our our events so cial me di a s ites. social media sites.

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