Lincolnkidswinter2013

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Celebrating our 20th year!

Lincoln Kids!

Quarterly Quarterly Family Family Newspaper Newspaper

Please Please Take Take One One

20th 20th Year Year No. No. 44

Your Family Guide for Lincoln and the Surrounding Area November, December & January

“Self-Portrait�

by Bailey Hamilton, age 8, Hill Elementary School

Winter 2013

Lincoln Kids!

Bowling, Birthdays and More.....!

BOWLING BIRTHDAY PARTIES

FOR ALL AGES.

Tap. Jazz. Ballet. Pointe. Lyrical. HipHop. Tumbling. Musical Theatre. Repertory Teams.

Universal Competitive Company

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 2012 NCAA Women’s Bowling Champions Nebraska East Union located on UNL-East Campus

402-472-1751 Lanes 'N Games is closed Dec. 19th–Jan. 13th.

Give the Gift of Dance!

Answered Prayer Parents Tell How Struggling Son Discovers His Potential “When we started with the LearningRx program we were already attending a local tutoring center but noticed Justin was still struggling through his sophomore year schoolwork. They were tutoring him to bring him up to his grade level but there was still something missing. Justin had been on Ritalin

since 1st grade but it no longer seemed to be working. He wanted to stop the medication but every time we tried his grades plummeted quickly.

We prayed for a solution to our problems...”

402-477-5111 • 5955 S. 56th St. Ste. #4 learningrx.com/lincoln

Call to schedule a cognitive skills test today.

Page 2 • lincolnkidsinc.com

Lincoln Kids!

From The Publisher

Furry and Furrier

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elcome to the winter edition of Lincoln Kids! newspaper. This issue completes our 20th year of bringing family information about what is going on in our fantastic (big) little city on the prairie.

Before we first started the paper back in 1993 we took a prototype of what the paper would look like to one of Lincoln’s largest Advertising companies. We asked them what they thought. The representative we spoke with looked it over, raised her eyebrows and responded, “I can’t see it making it. Lincoln just isn’t a family town.” What? Apparently this woman didn’t have children of her own. I knew Lincoln was a great place to raise children. I was born and raised here, so was my father and so was my son. My wife and I even moved back here after a short stint in California to raise him in

Fall 2013 Cover Artist Bailey lives with her mom, dad, and 12 year old brother, as well as a dog, cat, and two gerbils. She is in third grade this year. She loves animals, especially owls. She is in Brownies, she attends theater class at YAAL, and she loves art and swimming. She’s looking forward to producing a play she wrote herself about kangaroos. Bailey has Asperger's Syndrome, but she doesn't let that stop her.

Bailey Hamilton She wants other kids to know that they should follow their dreams, because you can do anything if you set your mind to it.

Advertising, Artwork, Article, & Calendar Deadline for the 2014 Spring (Camp) issue is January 15th.

Covering: February, March and April To view our issues online visit our website at: lincolnkidsinc.com

this environment of good ol’ midwestern values. Lincoln was a great city for families back and in 1993 and it is even a better place to raise children now.

I mentioned we started in 1993.

Lets go back another 20 years to 1973. I was a 20 year old freshman at the University of Nebraska.

I was working for my father in his small manufacturing business and life-guarding at the YMCA making minimum wage, which at the time was $1.60 an hour. Fifty miles south a ten year old by the name of Dan Whitney was attending elementary school and was in his third year of buying, raising, and selling hogs. Guess whose bank account was bigger? Be sure and check out my interview with a very nice Dan “Larry the Cable Guy” Whitney on page 4. Next spring we hope to do a piece on his Git-R-Done Foundation, which helps children in need both here in Lincoln and in other parts of the country. Dan currently stars in the History Channel’s Only in America with Larry the Cable Guy. On the Lifetime Network, we have two more Lincolnites who can be currently seen on Abby's Ultimate Dance Competition, season 2. It airs on Tuesdays at 8 pm.

Shari True and her daughter McKaylee are one of 11 mother/daughter contestants competing for a $100,000 cash prize and a scholarship to the Young Dancers Program at the Joffrey Ballet School in New York. Throughout

the 12-episode season, each young dancer learns new routines and competes in a number of challenges designed to test their skills while performing in front of three judges. The season is still in progress so I don’t know if McKaylee will win or not. All I know is you have to check out the U-Tube video of her solo, Les Miserables, dance. McKaylee is just amazing. Her performance honestly chokes me up–it is so good. It even got a standing ovation from the judges, which to my understanding rarely happens.

McKaylee is only 13 years old but her technical skills and level of emotion...well hey, go check it out for yourself. You can read the paper later. Go to Abby’s Ultimate Dance Competition - Full Dance: Les Miserables Solo at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v =rDx3JdPTeFo I hope to have an interview with both McKaylee and Shari in the Spring issue to discuss their experience on the show. If you check out the remaining shows they can get pretty intense and one of the dance moms likes to curse, so be forewarned. After all this is a “reality” TV show hyped with drama. So far I have not seen Shari or McKaylee lose their cool and they are representing our state with dignity and resolve. Check it out and wish them luck!

We have a good issue for you.

Hope you have a safe and happy winter.

Mark Martin

Kids! Get Published in Lincoln Kids!

Mail or email us a copy of your Artwork and Poems for consideration! lincolnkids@windstream.net phone: (402) 798-0224

Email:

website:

lincolnkidsinc.com

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

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.

We offer:

Elementary: Grades K-5 Child Care: Infants-Age 5 Full Day Pre-Kindergarten Morning Preschool: Age 3 Morning & Afternoon Preschool: Age 4 Kindergarten Round-Up & New Student Open House for Elementary School. February 6 & 8, 2014. Visit our website for times and details.

(402) 483-7774 • christschools.org • 4325 Sumner St. Winter 2013 Page 3

Lincoln Kids!

When I was a Kid... Git–R–Done

By Mark Martin, the Publisher

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any years ago we started a column entitled When I was Kid featuring stories of what it was like growing up for some of our more prominent Nebraskans. Included have been a few head Husker Football Coaches, a couple of Governors and several Mayors. For this issue we have a real treat for you.

I just got off the phone with Dan Whitney, better known as Larry the Cable Guy. Our younger readers also know him as the voice of “Mater”, the tow truck with an overbite from Carburator Springs in Pixar’s movies Cars and Cars 2.

Dan lives here in Lincoln and was born in the small town of Pawnee City which is located about fifty miles away. Of course Dan is best know for his character, Larry the Cable the Guy, but his resume is quite extensive. It includes hosting radio shows all over the country, creating almost a dozen best selling comedy CDs, including three that are gold and a Christmas CD that went platinum. His television appearances include 46 episodes of Blue Collar TV, a number of made-for-TV movies, many guest appearances and my favorite, the History Channel’s Only in America with Larry the Cable Guy in which Dan is also a producer. His movie credits include: Larry the Cable Guy: Health Inspector, Delta Farce, Witless Protection, and Tooth Fairy 2. And of course his voice work as Mater in the Cars movies I feel ranks right up there with Eddy Murphy’s Donkey as the best animation voice work done to date. Locally, he is the founder of the Git-R-Done Foundation helping children at Madonna Rehabilitation Hospital and has partnered with the Lincoln Children’s Zoo to help bring the zoo experience to chidren’s hospitals all over the country.

Dan grew up on a farm. His family leased out land where corn and beans were harvested. They also Page 4 • lincolnkidsinc.com

raised horses, cattle and from the early age of seven, Dan earned his own allowance by raising hogs. His uncle owned the local livestock sale barn, which as Dan shares, “was only fifty-five yards from my bedroom window.” Each morning before school he would get up early to feed and water the hogs and then do the same after school, making sure they were well cared for. Dan did all the work himself, including the buying and selling of the hogs. Dan said at an early age he learned to read an auctioneer as well as the farmers who were bidding. Since his uncle was the head auctioneer he taught Dan the finer points of how to bid. If a hog was selling for too much his uncle would give him a nod to stop bidding or if it was a good buy he would give Dan another nod. His uncle also taught him when it was a good time to sell.

By the age of ten, Dan says he probably had bought and sold somewhere between 500–600 hogs. I asked him if he got to keep the money he earned and shared that, “At age seven I had my own bank account with $2,700 in it.” From an early age Dan became a keen observer of people. He took in how people spoke, how they transacted business, how they joked with each other and what was of interest to them. He said that since he was around so many adults he learned “when to talk and when to keep his mouth shut.” He learned early on the skill of timing, which is so very important when doing stand-up comedy. I suppose one could say that Dan is an “A” student when it comes to understanding people. He said that he didn’t know it at the time but all that he was learning at the sale barn at this early age would lead him later in

life to creating his characters on radio, (where Larry the Cable Guy was born), doing stand-up comedy, making comedy records, movies and more. Even the accent he uses as Larry the Cable Guy came from observing how other people talk, namely his roommates in college.

When Dan was growing up his favorite TV programs where shows like Bonanza, Gun Smoke, Gilligan’s Island, Green Acres and Heehaw. Later in his teens he loved shows like Family Ties with Micheal J. Fox, Fat Albert, Happy Days and the Mary Tyler Moore show. He especially liked All in the Family and says that he used the Archie Bunker character as a model for some of his characterizations.

“I wanted my character to be similar to Archie but a more positive person,” he shared. Dan says that his sense of humor comes from both his Dad and his mother but his sister is also very funny and his brother is ten times funnier then he is.

The last thing I asked Dan was if he had a good joke to share. He paused for moment and shared this joke. “A preacher walked up to a hobo on the street and asked him for directions to the Post Office.

The hobo set down his paper bag with a bottle in it and pointed down the street, ‘Go three blocks this way and take a left. You can’t miss it.’ The preacher thanked him for the directions and added, “If you come by my church I can give you directions to Heaven.” The hobo responded, “How the heck are you going to tell me how to get to Heaven when you can’t even find your way to the post office?”

Lincoln Kids!

My Scaley, Furry, Feathery... Face Book Friends

By Mark Martin, The publisher and the Lincoln Children’s Zoo

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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:

horizontally and 10 feet vertically!

Next time you're at the Zoo, come say hi to me!

Zeus

Dreamcatcher

Tootie

My name is Tootie and I am an African Spurred Tortoise. I am 12 years old, and my friends, Mr. Smalls and Spunky, are both 11 years old. We are the largest tortoise on the African mainland and live in desert fringes and dry savannahs. In times of drought we like to dig ourselves into the ground to survive. We eat grasses and plants in the wild, but in the zoo we also enjoy hay, greens and special tortoise chow. I can’t wait to meet you in person!

Zaboo

My name is Dreamcatcher, and I am a Bald Eagle. Originally, I am from North America and love living near large bodies of open water. At the zoo, I live with my friend Madeline. Madeline and I eat fish and rodents that the Zookeepers give us, but in he wild we would hunt small mammals, reptiles, and fish. I have very good eyesight and am pretty strong. I can see up to 1.5 miles away and can carry eight pounds of food to my nest while flying if I really try!

Next time you're at the Zoo, stop by. Madeline and I love visitors!

My name is Zaboo and I live with My name is Zeus and I am a bobmy friend Frankie. Lemurs like us cat. My species is the most abunare very endangered, meaning dant wildcat in the whole United States. We adapt well to many there aren’t very many of us left in habitats, so in the wild we can be the wild. If we did live in the wild, found living in forests, swamps, we would eat fruit, seeds, nuts and leaves on the island of deserts and even urban areas. In Madagascar. In the Zoo, we eat a the zoo, I eat meat, but in the wild special primate diet, along with I would hunt rabbits, mice, birds fruits and vegetables. We love to and other mammals, sometimes I hang upside down and hold on might even try to hunt mammals with our feet while eating. Next that are larger than me! Come see time you're at the Zoo, listen for my home near the Animal our howl. It’s one of the loudest in Kingdom! the zoo!

For more Information visit: LincolnZoo.org

Phenny

Mikula

My name is Mikula and I am an Amur leopard. My twin brother, Jura, also lives here at the Zoo with me, but we take turns being on exhibit. There are less than 35 of us left in the wild today, which means we are extremely endangered. In the wild, we can be found in Russia and areas of China and Korea. I can run very fast, up to 37 mph, and leap more than 20 feet

My name is Phenny and I am one of the Bennett’s wallabies at the zoo! In the wild, I live in places like southeast Australia and Tasmania. We like these areas because they have shrub cover and lots of open areas. At the zoo, I eat specially formulated biscuits, but in the wild I would eat grass, leaves, and roots. How are we different from kangaroos you might wonder? We are a little smaller, but we can still hop up to six-feet!

Come watch me hop, hop, hop!

Winter 2013 Page 5

Lincoln Kids!

Fun and Frosty Family Festivities

By Dawn M. Garcia

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he weather outside is frosty and cold - it finally caught up with us! Snow angels in the snow, sledding down a steep hill on a garbage pail lid, hot cider and hot chocolate are necessities with cold, wintry weather. There are plenty of ways to play and stay cool in the winter but there are many ways to keep warm, too.

In Lincon, there are plenty of opportunities to stay warm at local events being hosted by the many organizations around the city.

With Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas and the New Year upon us, what better ways to celebrate with family and friends in traditional and non-traditional ways? The Calendar of Events that starts on page 26 lists many events, classes, Santa visits and much more. You and your family

can’t possibly become bored this festive season.

Be sure to check church websites for Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day services and events.

Are you looking for pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus for Christmas cards? Or perhaps your child wants to share his or her Wish List. We’ve listed a few places Santa Claus will be in the Calendar of Events and some are spread throughout the newspaper, but here are a few places you and your kids can catch a glimpse of Old Saint Nick.

Shoeboxes For Children Without Gifts Submitted by Ramona Catsinas

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’d like to tell you about a project of Samaritan’s Purse, a worldwide relief organization led by Billy Graham’s son, Franklin. The shoebox ministry arm is called Operation Christmas Child (OCC), a project where shoeboxes are packed for children in third world countries who have never received a gift.

In 2012, over 9 million boxes were sent to 130 countries. The first time we packed shoeboxes, we bought school supplies, toiletry items, toys and hard candy from the dollar store. We included a letter and a photo of our family.

Last year, Lincoln packed 5,000 boxes during National Collection Week, which is November 18-25.

It is extremely fun to see God use his people to accomplish a God-sized goal. It only takes $7.00 to ship a box overseas. You Page 6 • lincolnkidsinc.com

can’t even drive to Omaha for that!

This year we have a unique opportunity, called My Hope America. Billy Graham will celebrate his 95th Birthday on November 7. You’re encouraged to pack shoeboxes while listening to his message that evening, which will televised.

To learn more about Operation Christmas Child and to get involved, visit samaritanspurse.org/occ or contact Ramona Catsinas at jcatsinas@windstream.net.

Ramona is a volunteer for Operation Christmas Child, is a wife and mother of four grown children and lives near Waverly, Nebraska.

Start the holiday season early with the Starry Nights Festival in November. Santa will be taking pictures with anyone who wants one during the family-friendly festival on November 18–20 from 3 pm – 8:30 pm each night. This holiday event will be held in the Pinnacle Bank A r e n a .

Enjoy treats and refreshments, choirs, bands, dancers and Creation Stations for the kids.

The Lincoln Children’s Museum is offering a U-Stop Holiday Spectacular on December 5th from 5-8pm where Santa and Mrs. Claus will make an appearance. You can also visit Santa’s Workshop in the Discovery Gallery. Winter art projects and holiday crafts as well as live music and dance performances will await your arrival.

Take a ride on the North Pole Express at the Lincoln Children’s Zoo on December 7th, 8th, 14th and 15th from 11 am to 4 pm.

Tickets for the event include a train ride, hot chocolate, zoo entry, and a visit with Santa.

Miracle on 70th Street will be hosted by Saint Elizabeth Regional Medial Center on December 7th from 8 am to noon.

Come for a free family photo with Santa, a continental breakfast, Santa’s sleigh and reindeer, Christmas carolers and enjoy crafts for children.

You’ll have three chances to visit Santa at the North Pole Invasion at the Lincoln Children’s Museum on December 7th, 14th and the 21st from 1-4 pm each day.

Have breakfast with Santa on December 14th from 9 am to 11 am at Lincoln Southeast High School. Not only will Santa be there, but he’s bringing Mrs.

Claus and the Elves, too. Lincoln Southwest High is also presenting Yes, Virginia, There is a Santa Claus on December 12th, 13th, and 14th at 7 pm. Find out more on page 37.

If you’ve seen enough of Santa Claus, head over to the Lux Center for the Arts for the Winterfest on Sunday, December 8th from 1-4 pm. Enjoy their FREE annual festival of creativity, fun and handson holiday projects for the whole family.

Also on December 8th, around midafternoon, take in the wonder of the Nebraska Tree Lighting at the state capital.

Enjoy ballets, plays and theatrical performances at any one of the theatres in Lincoln. The Lincoln Midwest Ballet Company is featuring the Nutcracker on Saturday, December 14th at 2 pm and 7 pm and Sunday, December 15th at 2 pm at the Lied Center for Performing Arts.

Marley and Me: One Man Christmas Carol will be performed at TADA Theatre, in the Creamery Building November 2124 and December 5-8 and 12-15.

Get the kids to bed before midnight on New Year’s Eve and attend Make Believe Midnight on December 31st from 6:30-8:30 pm. Ring in the new year at 8:00 pm when the Lincoln Children’s Museum ball drops. Party favors, bubble wrap stomp, balloon shower and a dance zone will top this night off!

Camp Kitaki invites children ages 7-14 to ring in the new year at their New Year’s Live event starting on December 29th. For four days and three nights, campers will enjoy a dance party, a winter gala and compete in the Wacky Winter Olympics.

There is something for everyone during the upcoming holidays. Whatever you decide to do, have fun and enjoy the time you spend with family and friends!

Lincoln Kids!

‘Tis the Season for Art-Making: Winterfest at LUX Center for the Arts In our Fused Glass Snowflakes workshop, participants will combine pieces of glass to make snowflakes, which will be fused together after being fired in our kiln. For our Felted Ornaments workshop, guests will use a wetfelting technique to combine colorful pieces of wool and create one-of-a-kind ornaments. These pieces would be perfect for gift giving or decorating your home. I hope you join us at the LUX and

By Regina Flowers, Education Director, LUX Center for the Arts

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inter may bring colder days and longer nights, but it is also the season for merriment and memory-making with family and friends. Please consider letting the LUX Center help you and your loved ones create meaningful memories with our annual Winterfest event and family workshops. Winterfest is a free, family-centered event that anyone can attend. We open our doors to the community and host winter themed art-making activities for all ages. Everyone is welcome to join us and celebrate the season by making holiday cards, ornaments, and other winter inspired works.

You can also enjoy cookies and cider while browsing our galleries and gift shop to find the perfect gift for your loved ones. This year’s event will be held on

Sunday, December 8th from 1-4 pm.

Also inspired by the season are our family workshops in Fused Glass Snowflakes and Felted Ornaments. These workshops are meant for family members of all ages to come together and create seasonal works of art using extra special materials and techniques.

make art-making one of your family traditions.

Register for classes online at luxcenter.org or call us at (402) 466-8692.

LUX Center is located in historic University Place at 2601 N. 48th, at the corner of 48th and Baldwin in north Lincoln. Free parking available. For more information, contact Regina Flowers, Education Director at regina@luxcenter.org.

Frozen Fairies Poem

by Nima Faunce, age 9 The frozen fairies fly around on cold winter and autumn days sprinkling frost, ice and snow. When they fight, blizzards happen.

While they are happy it snows lightly. They cry icy pools of tears.

Sometimes they come early, and they cry down pails of hail stones. So next time you go outside to play in the snow think about the frozen fairies and what they do.

Winter 2013 Page 7

Lincoln Kids!

Be Confident In Your Cooking

By Nicole Russman

It Takes Less Time Than You Think To Make Tasty Dishes

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he holiday party season is upon us: the time when we gather with our friends, coworkers, and family. Food is almost always involved. “Bring an appetizer or dessert.” Sound familiar?

We are busy. Often we come home from work, feed the kids, and then it’s off to the party. No time to cook, so we just pick up something at the grocery store.

Grocery stores cater to this, making prepared food a significant part of what they offer. It’s quick and easy, with everything right there waiting for us, even if we are spending more money than we would to make it ourselves.

Why the obsession with already-prepared food? Sure, time is a big factor, but many of us also feel more comfortable buying something already made because we don’t believe in the food we cook. We worry about whether it is good enough or if it doesn’t look perfect.

Most of the food we crave is from our childhood. And unless your mom or grandma was Martha Stewart, the food often was not fancy. It was made with

simple ingredients, ordinary pots and pans, and love. They didn’t worry about presentation, they simply made food, we ate it, and everyone enjoyed the company.

Somewhere along the way things have changed. We are busy, but believe it or not, you can find dishes that are simple, delicious, and, in many cases, won’t take any more time than it takes to pick up something.

For a fool-proof side dish, try roasted sweet potatoes drizzled with olive oil, salt, pepper, and thyme. They are delicious, easy to make, and almost everyone loves them.

Need a quick appetizer? How about BBQ chicken pizza sliced into small squares. A caramelized onion and Swiss cheese pizza is a favorite go-to appetizer that’s always a crowd pleaser. If you really want to glam it up, use puff pastry (found in the freezer section). Sprinkle the caramelized onions, Swiss cheese, and thyme over the crust and bake. It really is a simple dish with a “gourmet” twist.

Does your event call for a dessert? Try making the pumpkin pie recipe from the back of the pumpkin filling can. It’s pretty

simple, and if you don’t have time to make your own pie crust, the frozen or refrigerated ones work great. Top the pie with a salted caramel sauce, whipped cream, and maybe a few pecans, and you have yourself one delicious dessert.

Be confident in your cooking.

You are taking a piece of yourself to share with your friends and family. Isn’t that what the holidays and parties are really about?

Don’t worry if it isn’t magazineworthy. Even if it isn’t pretty, you can be sure it will taste good. So at your next holiday gathering, skip the store-bought, make your own, and be proud! You can make amazing food. And you might just be the hit of the party.

Nicole Russman is a stay-athome mom with four children and a hungry husband. She founded plate & table, which provides cooking classes and parties as a way to inspire people to cook. For more information, visit www.plateandtable.com or call (402) 540-2738.

“Portrait of a Sister” by Leah Guenther, Age 16, Lancaster Learning Link

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 Saturday 9:00am – 2:45pm

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

(Tues. & Thurs. Open until 6:45pm by appointment only)

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 Lori McAlister, Board President

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hile there are an amazing number of opportunities to learn and enjoy dancing in Lincoln, very few provide the chance to dance together as a family. The Lincoln Irish Dancers have been teaching and performing since 1997.

Recreational Ceili (KAY-lee), or Irish social dancing is primarily what the group promotes. This dance form is enjoyed across generations and around the world. It is one of the forerunners of American square dance, contra dance and tap dance.

“When we discovered Irish social dance, our daughters were 8 and 10 years old,” says Lori McAlister, board president. “We all started as beginners and were soon performing together with the rest of the group. Dancing has taken us all around the area, to the North Texas Irish Festival, the Kansas City Irish Festival and on a tour of Ireland in 2007. It is fun, it connects us to our heritage and provides a common activity that we enjoy together.”

Introduction to Irish Social Dancing is a very accessible class to learn the basics of Ceili dance.

If you can walk and count to 7, you can enjoy simple Irish dancing. You do not have to be Irish and you do not have to perform.

them. You do not need to bring a partner as you will be dancing with everyone in the class before the lesson is out.

The Lincoln Irish Dancers host Lincoln’s annual Spring Ceili each year at Auld Pavilion in Introduction to Irish Social Dancing runs in 5-week Antelope Park. sessions, final session is November 11-December 9. Mark your calendar now for Sunday, March 9th from 6:30 to Our baseline starting age is 12 9:00 pm. Our band for 2014 is years, though students will be “Miles From Dublin” from considered on a case-by-case Kearney and our caller is basis. All minor students need to Catherine Sherer Bishop from have an adult attending class with

Jackson, Mississippi. Catherine will also lead a workshop for us from 3:00 to 5:00 pm prior to the Ceili.

Introduction to Irish Social Dancing runs in 5-week sessions.

The final session for 2013 is November 11th to December 9th.

Sessions for 2014 are January 6 th through February 3rd; February 10th through March 10th and April 7th through May 5th.

Registration information available online at www.lincolnirishdancers.org or phone 402.742.0477 for more information.

Lincoln Midwest Ballet Company presents its 29th production of the holiday classic, The Nutcracker, at the Lied Center for Performing Arts Saturday, December 14th, at 2 pm & 7 pm and Sunday, December 15th at 2 pm.

The Lincoln Midwest Ballet Company’s Nutcracker features nearly 200 dancers from southeastern Nebraska in a performance that also features a live orchestra and nationallyknown guest artists. The classic story of The Nutcracker comes to life with the finest choreography, costumes, and scenery, making this production a treasured Lincoln tradition.

The cast of the Nutcracker is comprised of local dance students who are selected by audition. This year, the role of Clara will be danced by high school student, Paige Thompson.

The Artistic Director of the Lincoln Midwest Ballet Company’s Nutcracker production is Shari True. The Nebraska Symphony Chamber Orchestra, under the direction of Dr. Herbert E. Dregalla, Jr., will provide Tchaikovsky’s classic score.

Performances: Saturday, December 14th, 2 p.m./7 p.m., and Sunday, December 15th, 2 p.m. Lied Center for Performing Arts. 301 North 12th Street, Lincoln, Ticket Information: Adult Ticket prices are $47, $34 and $27.

Student tickets are available for $34, $22 and $17. Tickets will go on sale Monday, October 28, at the Lied

Center box office, (402) 472-4747 and at liedcenter.org.

Enrolling for 2014-2015

The Voice Studio Leah Arington Voice lessons for children & adults! www.TA4K.com (608) 322 – 4549 ta4kinfo@gmail.com

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 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.

Winter 2013 Page 9

Lincoln Kids!

Good Dog!

By Charleen Engberg, Director of Volunteers and Education, Capital Humane Society “

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hen on our daily walks, people will holler out their windows how beautiful and well behaved our dogs are,” said Michelle and Tyler Millsap. They took their dogs, Clover and Skye, through obedience classes at Capital Humane Society.

“We desire well behaved dogs, regardless of what stage of development they are in,” they said. “We strongly feel that a dog’s behavior is representational of their owner’s ability to handle them.”

Capital Humane Society offers basic dog and puppy obedience classes. Randy Yager, animal behaviorist, is the instructor.

He said the number one concern he hears from owners is, “My dog just won’t listen.”

When they say this, he encourages them to enroll in obedience classes. “Learn from experts how to train your dog,” Yager remarked.

Most dogs are very active and they love to jump, run and play.

This is normal behavior and dogs need safe outlets for all their energy. However, they also need guidance about what behavior is expected and appropriate.

Just like people need to be taught new skills, dogs also need direction. They don’t just inherently know not to pull on their leash or jump on their owner. These basics need to be taught, practiced and rewarded.

The Millsaps said that one of the benefits to training is that others get to enjoy their dogs as much as they do.

“They willingly sit, lie down and stay on command until released,” they explained. “They eagerly listen and watch for their obedience commands, as they feel good about being praised and pleasing their master.”

Many trainers will explain to owners that their dog is not being bad, but that the owner is not properly providing direction for their dog to learn. There are a variety of training styles and people should find the one that works best for them and their dog and be consistent.

Dogs don’t understand, for example, that digging up the back yard is a problem until they are corrected by their owner and given another outlet for all of that energy. It is important that training begin as early as possible, so you can shape behaviors before they

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become problematic.

“It’s never too late to train your dog,” Yager explained. “Keep in mind, the longer the dog has formed a habit, the more time, perseverance and patience it will take to change it, but it can be done.”

“For serious problems, like aggression issues, you should set up a private session with a local trainer and be honest.” He added, “There are many good local trainers in the area.”

“Train your dogs, love them, be fair, but firm,” Yager concluded.

“They will respect you and love you in return.”

Taking good care of your furry best friends includes proper training. Visit our website for helpful training tips and to learn more about our programs. We can be reached at: 402-441-4483 or www.capitalhumanesociety.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!

Embracing Experiential Learning create a wealth of we understand knowledge and this... to a truly light the degree.

We spark for more inknow that if we depth, inquiry type want our chillearning. dren to learn to Nature – even in walk, they must your own backyard try it on their know that when I see snow – is the perfect outside my window that it is own. If we want “school” for expeour children to cold outside. I know that when riential learning.

I plant a tomato seed, I will even- develop a taste Even in winter, tually get a tomato to eat. I know for new foods, there are amazing that when the warm breezes of they must try it experiences to for themselves. spring begin to blow, I will soon Photo by Abby Kula have in the great see the Turkey Vultures return to They will not outdoors. Try experiencing the learn to walk just because we tell their roost in my neighborhood. sound of the birds on a quiet winthem to put one foot in front of the How do I know all this? I have ter morning.

Chickadees, experienced it. I have gone out other. They will not like to eat Cardinals, Blue Jays, Nuthatches, into the snow without a coat and tomatos just because we tell them Juncos, and Hawks are all in felt the cold. I have planted a it is tasty. They must learn by Lincoln throughout the winter. tomato seed and eaten the toma- experience.

Or try experiencing your heart The truth is that experiential toes it produced. I have watched race as you see a deer calmly walk each early spring day until I finally learning happens throughout our in front of you while strolling life, and it is not just the big, monsee Turkey Vultures soaring over through Pioneers Park, umental experience from which my neighborhood.

Wilderness Park, or one of the 7 we learn. Often it is the simple, This process of understanding State Recreation Areas around and learning is called Experiential every-day experiences that lead to Lincoln. White-tailed deer, racLearning, and it is truly critical for the greatest learning. These little coons, opossums, bobcats, mice, children’s development. As parents, experiences, when linked together, red foxes and wild turkeys are active all winter long.

And, then there is the experiMyGym Hosts Winter Camp ence of tracking an animal in the This winter your children can participate in energizing fitness games, noncompetitive gymnastics, arts and crafts, music snow. Even with only a dusting of and so much more. Each camp program is uniquely designed snow, you can easily find songto keep your children moving and active, as we emphasize bird, squirrel, rabbit, and even physical development and personal success. Themes and promice tracks. I like looking for tiny grams change daily. My Gym makes it easy for parents with their drop-off program, pay-by-the-day options, and multi-day. song bird tracks in the snow on my driveway. Try determining Visit our website, www.mygym.com/lincoln, for more information on our 3 hour winter camps starting in December where they came from and where they were headed. To encourage

By Lindsay Rogers, Wildlife Education Specialist for the

I

tracks, you can put out a handful of bird seed or a shallow dish of berries.

For me, winter is not complete until I’ve experienced the feeling of the wind on my face as I zoom down a hill on a sled. Mahoney State Park, Platte River State Park, Pioneers Park, and Holmes Lake Park all have great sledding hills. I like to experience the joys of blowing bubbles outside, too.

In freezing temperatures, your bubbles will freeze and you will have ice bubbles!

This winter, don’t forget to experience the trials of making a fire in a fire pit. Enjoy the smells of the camp fire, and the taste of eating s’mores while bundled in your winter coat and mittens.

So this winter, try excusing yourself from the indoor activities. Head outside for some true experiential learning. and while you’re out there, you’ll also be making memories, learning about nature, and having a blast!

Photo by Lidsay Rogers

Winter/Spring Swimming Lessons Sessions:

Warm Water & Good Times!

#1) #2) #3) #4) #5)

Registration Begins:

Jan 21 – Feb 12 Feb 17 – Mar 6 Mar 17 – April 10 April 14 – May 1 May 12 – 29

Dec 10 Feb 4 Feb 25 April 1 April 22

Classes are taught Monday/Wednesday or Tuesday/Thursday at 4:30 pm and 5:30 pm

52nd & Stockwell 402-486-2525

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

Call us today!

$1.99 Kids Meals Every Day 5–8 p.m. with $4 adult purchase.

Winter 2013 Page 11

Lincoln Kids!

Go Out and Meet a Tree

By Becky Seth, Retired Naturalist, & Andrea Faas, Naturalist, Pioneers Park Nature Center

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inter is a wonderful time to meet a tree, to strike up an acquaintance, to start a friendship.

There are two main kinds of trees, evergreen and deciduous.

Evergreen trees keep their leaves all year round, shedding them just a little at a time. Here in Nebraska most evergreens are Conifers, with leaves shaped liked needles, and seeds protected by a cone.

Before settlers came and started planting trees here, Nebraska had only Junipers, also called Red Cedars, and in the north and west, Ponderosa Pine. But now we have lots of Pines, Firs, and Spruce trees. So if you like a little color in your winter, you have trees of different shapes and colors to choose

Dual Language Preschool English/Spanish t "HFT t %BZT . 8 PS . 8 ' t 5JNF Bam t 'FF PS NPOUI *Need -based scholarships available!

Our dual language preschool program allows children to grow by incorporating new experiences into their daily routine. Thematic content supports language development in Spanish and English and allows preschoolers to have fun while playing and learning kindergarten readiness skills.

Call 402-441-7954

to request an information packet.

Page 12 • lincolnkidsinc.com

from for your special tree. Notice if it has short or long needles. Are they stiff or rather soft?

Are the needles grouped together in little packets?

Does your tree have cones on it, or underneath? What shape are they?

Has an animal been chewing on the cone for the seeds inside?

Because evergreens do keep their leaves all winter they offer protection from cold winds and snow to birds and small mammals. What do you see using your tree for shelter?

Many of our trees are deciduous – they drop their leaves for the winter. Leaves make food for the tree using sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide. Since water freezes in winter, the broad, thin leaves of deciduous trees can’t do their work. Their tiny food factories, which also keep the leaves green, shut down. The leaves show the other colors present, like yellow and red, and then they fall to the ground giving shelter to small critters and eventually turning into soil. Our Evergreen trees have thick waxy coatings on their needles and produce a kind of antifreeze so they can keep their leaves during cold weather.

If you choose a deciduous tree as your special tree you can really get to know it in winter. Trees have individual shapes that are easy to see once the leaves are gone. Some are tall and fairly narrow, some have branches that reach wide. Notice the patterns its branches make against a bright blue winter sky. Feel its bark. Put your arms around its trunk.

buds. Sit underneath and read a book or daydream. It is easy and fun to adopt a special tree of your very own. It will be there for you for a long, long time.

The Center

Take a look at its branches and twigs. Some trees have big buds that are easy to see, others have small, hidden buds. Those buds hold the beginnings of new growth for the next season. On some twigs you can quickly find the scars the leaves left behind when they fell, and the ring that marks each year’s growth. Can you also find the tiny marks along the twigs that are pores for breathing? Compare the twigs of your tree to a different kind.

What animals made a home in your tree? Maybe you can see a nest. If it is small and carefully woven it is probably where a small bird raised its babies last season. If the nest is big, sloppy and made mostly of leaves it was probably built by a squirrel. Are there any holes in your tree?

Perhaps a Woodpecker made that hole for its nest. Once the woodpecker was done with the hole, a Black-capped Chickadee or Screech Owl may have rented it for a season.

Visit your tree often and see what’s going on there. Next spring pay attention when it flowers, and when its leaves burst out of their

Winter at Pioneers Park Nature Center is a wonderful thing.

Outside the wind may be blowing but inside the animals are warm and cozy. The Nature Center is open almost every day, just closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. All other days the Prairie Building and all of the trails are open to the public.

You are welcome to come inside and visit the snakes, turtles and kestrels anytime. Young kids will enjoy the Children’s Corner which has crafts, natural building blocks, an interactive prairie diorama, and seasonal displays.

On weekends the Chet Ager Building will be open and visitors can sit by the large bay windows facing the Irene & George Alexander Building which is the hub of bird activity daily. Inside the Screech Owls, Barn owl, turtles, snakes and salamander are all enjoying the peace and quiet of winter.

And even though it is cold out many animals are still active in winter. Tracks and trails can be found all around the Nature Center and they are sure to be found where there is open water along a stream or wetland. All animals need water and you will certainly find evidence of them near the water.

So bundle up and come for a visit, enjoy a brisk walk, and then warm up with your favorite animal.

Call 402-441-7895 or visit parks.lincoln.ne.gov/naturecenter to find out more about the fun things happening here. We look forward to your visit and hope you get out and enjoy the natural world this winter!

Lincoln Kids!

FUN WIT WITH TH NATURE! NA ATURE T !

FUN A ACTIVITES CTIVITE ES FOR FOR THOSE WITH SPECIALL NEEDS! NEEDS!

P PIONEERS PARK P A ARK NATURE NA ATURE T CENTER

New sessions star startt in January!

Jan nuary!

PRAIRIE R RUN UN

Dues, D uess, ac activity tivitty fees and tr transportation rans a sportation fees dep depending ending on activity. acctivitty. Registration Registrra ation Requir Required. red ed.

YOUNG Y OUNG ATHLETES ATHLE T TES at at Easterday Ea asterday Recreation Recreation Center Center e

Come C o ome experience exper ience the Nature Nature Center Center in a whole new w way ay with w the first P Prarie rar ie Run! Call Call 402-441-7895 to to regregist ister er and get g mor more e inf information! or mation!

Da Date: te: SSaturday, aturday, No November ovember 9 | TTime: ime: 9am FFee: ee: $ $10/ 10/ kkids ids 1 mile mile,, $20/adult 5K K if rregistered egistered b byy 11 11-1.

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Innovative spor Innovative sports ts pla playy pr program og gram ffor o or childr children en 2-7 with in intellectual tellec e tual disabilities disabilities.. Childr Children en lear learn n basics of running running,, jumping jumping, g, thr throwing, owing, ca catching, tching, str striking, iking, and kkicking icking thr through ough guided ac aactivities. tivities.

SSaturdays, aturdays, 10:15-10:45 a.m a.m. m. C Call all 402-441-7901 ffor o or fforms o orms and a more more information inffo ormation

FUN CLUB CLUB a att East Easterday erday Recreation Recreation Center Center Recreational and social activities Recreational activities t ffor o or g grade rade schoolers wit with h special needs needs..

TTuesdays, uesdays, 5:15-6:30 p.m. p.m. C Call a 402-441-7901 tto all o rregister. egister.

EAGLE EA GLLE W WATCHING ATCHING TRIP Bald eagles are ar a e incredible incredible to to watch watch and w we e will make a special tr trip ip to to view w them at at Squaw S quaw Creek Creek National Natio onal Wildlife Wildlife Refuge R efuge in M Missouri. issour i. Bring Br B ing your your binoculars, binoculars, we’ll we’ll provide pr p ovide transportation transpor tation a a catered and catered sack lunch. R Register eg gister by

by December D ecember 4.

Da Date: te: SSaturday, aturday, D Dec ec 7 | TTime: ime: 7:00a 7:00a-3p a-3p | FFee: ee: $45/person

HI-TIME CL CLUB UB at at Easterday Easterrday Recreation Recreation Center Center Recreational and social activities Recreational activities t ffor o or high school thr through ough h 21 with special needs needs..

Mondays, M ondays, 7:00-8:30 p.m., p.m., C Call all 402-441-7901 tto o rregister. egister.

DEVELOPMENTAL DEVELOPMENT TAL PLAY PLA AY GROUP GROUP

AUTHOR A UTHOR ST STORYBOOK ORYBOOK READING

Ager Play Ager Play C Center, enterr, 402-441402-441-7607 -7607 ffor or o an application application Specially desig designed ned ffor o or fam families ilies of vvery ery yyoung oung childr children en wi with ith special needs needs..

Pre-registration P re-registration R Required. equired.

Days: Da ys: Tuesdays Tuesdays | Time: Time: 6:00-8:00 6:00 0-8:00 p p.m. .m. | FFee: ee: $36/4 w week eek session s SSessions: essions: No November vember 27-D 27-December e ember 17 and January ec January 7-28

Come C ome list listen en n tto o a reading reading g of “Ha “Have ve Y You ou SSeen een M Mary?� ar yy?�� b byy Gr Gretna etna author author and NEBR NEBRASKAland ASK Aland M Magazine agazzine edit editor or Jeff K Kurrus. ur rus.

Date: Date: TThursday, hursd day, Jan 2 | TTime: ime: 10-11a Location: Location: P Prairie rairie Building Bu uilding | FFee: ee: $3/person

Shake e off the t sno snow ow and d have fun! f MOMS ON THE M MOVE MOVE Bring your Bring your infant infant or toddler toddlerr in their stroller, strollerr, walk-behind walk-behind ttoy, oy, fr ont car rierr, etc. etc. and join jo oin other moms in their quest of o front carrier, rreaching eaching their “Healthy “Healthy Me�

Me� goals. goals. M.O.M.s M.O M .M.s will w be walking walking g the track track ar around ound our pla playy st structure; tructure; participating participating in op op-tional exercises exercises post ed around arou und the center; center; and shar ing their th heir posted sharing secr ets and successes successes related related e to to raising raising g reat kkids! ids! secrets great A 10 pass punch card card is available available a fo or $40 at at the A ger IIndoor ndo oor for Ager P lay C enter. M.O .M.s ga therr on TTuesdays uesdays and TThursdays hursdays Play Center.

M.O.M.s gather bet ween 8 and 9 A M dur ing g the mon ths of O ctober - A prril. between AM during months October April.

C all 402-441-6792 ffor or o mor e inf fo ormation.

Call more information.

GINGERBREAD GINGERBREA AD HOUSE MAKING G Calvert Recreation Calvert Recreation Center, Centerr, 402-441-8480 to to register. register e. are SStructure tructure and all the e goodies ar e supplied for for o onlyy $20 per family! Registration Regisstration rrequired. equired.

Sunday, Dec Sunda y, D ec 1 | 1:00-3:00 1:00--3:00 p.m. p.m.

KIDS KID DS DAY DAY OFF

AGER A GER RE RENTAL ENTTA AL PARTY PAR ARTY T PLACE PLACE

Supe Supervised ervised play play when school’s school’s not in n session. Registration Registration rrequired. equired.

6:30 a.m.-6:00 a p p.m. .m. | $31/da $31/dayy M on, D ec 30 Contact the center center in terested e in aattending. ttending.

Mon, Dec Contact interested Wed, W ed, Nov Nov 27 TTues, ues, D ec 31 "JS 1BSL t " JS 1BSL t

Dec Mon, M on,, D Dec ec 2 #FMNPOU t TThurs, hurs, Jan 2 # FMNPOU t Mon, M on,, D Dec ec 23 $BMWFSU t FFri, ri, Jan 3 $ BMWFSU t

TThurs, hurss, D Dec ec 26 M on, Jan 20 '' 4USFFU t ' 4 4USFFU t

Mon, FFri, ri, D Dec ec 28 *C Calvert a alvvert lo location cation only

Birthday Party Birthday Party R Rentals entaals ar are e ffor o or childr children* en* up tto o 5 years yeaars of age at at A Ager ger IIndoor ndoor Play Play C Center. enter. FFor or mor more e inf info, fo, 402-44 402-441-6788.

41-6788.

Open Hours R Rental ental : P Party arty dur during ing our “open “open to to public� pub blic� hours - $30/hour ffor each admission or o eac ch rroom oom plus $3 each ffor o or adm ission After A fter Hours Rental Rental : Private Private P Party arty dur during ing our closed d hours $81/hour entire en ntire facilit facilityy up tto o 200 people people.. *Height *Height an and nd age rrestrictions estrictions still apply apply..

GOJU R RYU YU Y KA KARATE ARA ATE T Air A ir P Park ark Neighborhood Neighborho ood Center Center 402-441-7876 call ffor o orr mor more e inf info fo TTraditional raditional Okinawa Okinawa st style yle of M Martial artial t Arts Arts ffor o or all ages 5+.

TTiny iny N Ninjas, injas, ages 5-6, Sat Sat 9:30-10:15 9:30-10 0:15 a.m., $18/month $18/month Juni Junior or Youth, Youth, o ages 7-16, Sat Sat 10:30-11:30 10:30 0-11:30 a.m., $28/month $28/month A Adults, dults, ages 17+, Sat Sat 11:45 a.m.-12:45 a.m.-1 12:45 p.m., p.m., $28/month $28/month

ARCHERY AR CHER RY OPEN RANGE-FAMILIES R RANGE-FFA AMILIES ON ON TARGET TA AR RGET GET Air A ir P Park arrk Neighborhood Neighborhood Center Center Experience Experience the excitement excitemen nt and challenge of archery archery target taarrge get et shooting. shoo oot otin ing.

Equipment Equipment an and nd rrange ange super supervision vision pr provided. ovid de ed d.

Saturdays, Saturdays, 10:00-1 10:00-11:30 11:30 a.m., $4/individuals $4/individuals,, $8/f $8/family /ffam milyy

FREE FR E PR PROGRAMS! O OGR R RAMS AMS MS M !

TEEN TREKS

GEAR-TECH-21 GEAR-TECH-2 21 LEGO ROBOTICS ROBOTICS S parks.lincoln.ne.gov par ks.lincoln.ne.gov Fall/Winter program class are available Fall/Winter pr ogram & cla ss listing ar ea vailable online or at at your your favorite favorite Recreation Recreation Center!

Center!

F Street Street R Recreation eccreation Center, Centerr, 402-441-7951 1 LLearn ea arn the basics of building and d pr programming ogramming LEGO rrobots. obotss.

S Saturdays aturdays |10:00 a.m.-noon n

Belmont Recreation Belmont Recreation Center, Centerr, 402-441-6789 Center C enter ac activities tivities and special spe ecial events events for for middle school students. students. C all ffor or mor e inf ormation Call more information No v. 15, Dec. Dec. 20 & Jan. Jan. 17 7 | 7:00-9:00 p .m.

Nov. p.m.

Winter 2013 Page 13

Lincoln Kids!

It’s a Revolution! ...The Nebraska Tennis Revolution

By Coach Tim Matacio

A

tennis revolution is under way in the LPS elementary schools. Tennis Coach lessons are being Matacio made available from a certified tennis coach during elementary school physical education classes.

Tim Matacio, from the Nebraska Tennis Revolution, and a teaching professional at the Abbott Sports Complex, is working closely with elementary school physical education teachers to provide tennis lessons during the school day and in afterschool clubs.

It all started last June when Marybell Avery, Curriculum Specialist for Lincoln Public

Schools in Health, Physical Education, and Character Education, invited Tim to provide a tennis workshop for the elementary school physical education teachers. That workshop lead to tennis classes during P.E. at Rousseau for students in Kindergarten through the third grades during the first two weeks of September. Rousseau now has an after-school tennis club which includes grades K-5th.

Tim has also provided a tennis unit during P.E. at Prescott and is scheduled to do the same at Zeman and Campbell during the month of October. On September 24, he spoke for the Professional Learning Communities Day for all of the students at Everett, and is starting another after-school tennis club at Brownell on October 25th. On October 26th, the Abbott

Sports Complex hosted a “Free Day of Play”, which allowed anyone 10 and under to play tennis free for an hour.

One of the exciting developments in tennis over the last few years has been the introduction of new equipment and teaching techniques that has allowed tennis to be played in school gymnasiums and playgrounds. “You don’t need a tennis court to learn how to play tennis,” says Matacio.

“I learned with a ball and a racquet, just hitting against a wall.”

Matacio now calls that wall, “Wally”, and he encourages children to develop their skills even if there is no one else to play with.

“You can always play with Wally.”

The Nebraska Tennis Revolution is about giving as many people as possible the opportunity to learn the sport of tennis. “We would like to provide tennis lessons for every child in Lincoln over the next 3-5 years”, said Tim. “With the cooperation of LPS and the collaboration with the physical education teachers, other tennis clubs in Lincoln, the Lincoln Community Learning Centers, the YMCA and the United States Tennis Association, we feel it can be done.”

Tennis is a great sport for the family, where everyone can play together. If you would like to see tennis offered at your school, contact your local physical education teacher, or call Tim directly at (402) 310-9097. For more information on tennis lessons for the entire family contact Tim, or visit the website: netennisrev.com.

Hildegard Center Calling All Artists

By Kim Einspahr, President, Hildegard Center for the Arts

H

ildegard Center for the Arts and the Lincoln/Lancaster County Habitat for Humanity are teaming up for an exciting public arts project called Doorways to Hope. Beginning October 1, 2013, this unique arts initiative will be calling all artists in the Lincoln and Lancaster area to work with any group of their choice from the community to create a work of art using a door as their inspiration and starting point. Ultimately, the doors will be auctioned off to help raise funds to build a Habitat Home called the Art House Build for a family in need and to begin an endowment for Hildegard Center for the Arts. Lead artists will also receive 20 percent of proceeds raised from their individual doors.

Page 14 • lincolnkidsinc.com

and 24 artists With Doorways’ (along with their strong focus on community group) community will be chosen. involvement, both Winning artists organizations hope will be given a to send the mes$500 stipend for sage that all citiart supplies in zens can creatively order to complete work together and the project. give back to their The 24 doors community regardwill be publicly less of age, social displayed throughand economic Auction will raise funds out the Capital standing, gender, to build a Habitat Home City beginning race or ethnicity.

Memorial Day 2014 through Artists have until December 20, October 1, 2014. The doors are to 2013 to submit their artist statebe auctioned off at a special comments (on CD) and munity event October 5, 2014 to sketch/maquettes describing their benefit Lincoln/Lancaster Habitat envisioned themes for the door. for Humanity, Hildegard Center Artists will be allowed up to two for the Arts and the lead artists. A separate ideas/sketches for a sinprominent Nebraska artist will gle application fee of $25, made also be invited to create a “signapayable to Doorways to Hope. ture” door as part of a special The sketch/maquettes and written unveiling during the live auction. statements will be officially juried

To download applications forms and access general information about Doorways to Hope, go to www.doorwaysproject.org.

For questions regarding the call to artists, contact Project Coordinator, Ann Williams at 402-440-0965 or artist@doorwaysproject.org.

For inquiries about sponsorships or volunteer opportunities, please email info@doorwaysproject.org or contact the Lincoln/Lancaster County Habitat for Humanity office at 402.477.9184.

Lincoln Kids!

Looking for a Great Book to Read?

By Vicki Wood, Youth Services Supervisor, Lincoln City Libraries Bennett Martin Public Library

W

hen the word BLOCKBUSTER is being bandied about, it is usually referring to over-the-top popular movies. In the book world, a BLOCKBUSTER refers to a title by a well-known author whose books have wide appeal, one that is almost guaranteed a spot on the bestseller list. Not until the advent of the Harry Potter series, first published in 1997, did the world see a book written for children and/or young adults reach this status; or outsell adult titles of the same stature.

Some of these books, such as the Twilight series by Stephenie Meyer and Suzanne Collins’ Hunger Games series, written for teens, have had crossover appeal to adult readers. Though not intended for adults, the sly humor of Lemony Snicket’s A Series of Unfortunate Events, as well as Tony DeTerlizzi’s Spiderwick Chronicles, have surely delighted parents reading these books aloud to their elementary-school-age children, thereby ensuring their popularity.

Rick Riordan’s various series based on ancient mythology have held steady on the bestseller lists since the publication of The Lightning Thief in 2005. The Diary of a Wimpy Kid by Jeff Kinney and all of its clones and spin-offs have tapped into the middle school angst market and continue to be very popular.

Books in series have built-in appeal to readers due to the predictability of familiar characters and an emotional investment in their fate. However, several nonseries books have reached the blockbuster status staying consistently on the bestseller lists for over 40 weeks. Marcus Zusak’s tale of horror and redemption during World War II, The Book Thief,

Check out Lincoln City Libraries' BookGuide

is one of these. This profundity of this n o v e l makes it universally appealing whether taught in a high school class or, discussed in an adult book group.

The Fault in Our Stars by John Green offers readers two utterly authentic characters, two teens struggling with lifethreatening illness, and trying to make sense of life, death, love and desire. Green doesn’t give in to sentimentality; instead allowing his readers to feel the full spectrum of emotion these characters and their families experience.

Green’s other books, such as the Printz award-winning novel, Looking for Alaska have enjoyed a wider readership due to the popularity of this novel. His books are most appropriate for high school students.

The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-time Indian by Sherman Alexie, is another outstanding novel that has crossover appeal among teens and adults. Coming of age on a Spokane reservation, Junior has to navigate the world of his Native American community as well as the all-white town high school he attends in an attempt to break away from reservation life.

Alexie manages to both amuse and wrench the reader’s heart, offering a rare glimpse into a culture far removed from most of our day-to day experiences.

Finally, Wonder by R. J. Palacio is one of those rare books that offers a powerful learning experience without being didactic.

August was born with severe facial deformities and hasn’t attended school until now, his fifth grade year. Told from multiple perspectives, Palacio’s book is full

of kindness, humor and heartache as August’s siblings, family, classmates and community struggle to accept him as the “normal kid” he really is.

Wonder is a Golden Sower Nominee for fourth through sixth grade students in Nebraska this school year. Many of the other nine nominees are exceptionally well written as well.

To learn more about the Golden Sower award and find this year’s nominees visit: www.goldensower.org/nugget/l ists/2013-2014nominees.pdf The library has a tool to help kids find books based on another book they have already read and

enjoyed. Novelist K-8 is available on our web page under the Books and Literature Resource on our Research Resources page.

Customers can type in the name of any book they enjoyed and choose either title, author or series readalikes. This is a great resource for kids and parents, building on interests and genres the child has already enjoyed. Each book entry includes a synopsis, an age range, and the book’s lexile rating which measures the reading demand or difficulty of the text. Parents, we also have Novelist for adults to help you find new books based on what you know you like to read.

Call now to schedule your child’s flu vaccination.

LINCOLN PEDIATRIC GROUP, LLC

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www.lincolnpedsgroup.com Winter 2013 Page 15

Lincoln Kids!

Let Gratitude Shine

By Sara Kendall

T

hanksgiving is not a holiday about wearing a costume, receiving candy, or getting gifts. It’s all about stuffing your face with too much turkey and pumpkin pie, succumbing to a food coma while watching football, then launching an attack on Black Friday sales, right? In reality, it’s not about overeating, football, or shopping at all. Help your kids get more out of Thanksgiving by focusing on the true meaning of the holiday: gratitude.

How it All Started Thanksgiving marks a remembrance of those Pilgrims who crossed an uncharted ocean from Europe in search of true freedom in what later became Plymouth, Massachusetts. The Pilgrims suffered hard times through a cold

winter with no food. Many became sick and died. The remaining Pilgrims did not give up, and befriended Native American Indians who showed them how to plant corn and other crops, learning how to harvest the crops for their survival. This first harvest celebration between the Pilgrims and Indians lasted for three days. It’s important for children to hear how our Thanksgiving traditions were born. Many will learn in school, but there are plenty of good online resources and books for your child to gain a deeper, more meaningful understanding of the story.

The true meaning of the Thanksgiving story is there will be tough times for us all, but always find something to appreciate in our lives. The Pilgrims did not give up, persevering and learning to be grateful for what they had. How can we show our children the importance of both Thanksgiving and giving thanks?

We offer three ideas to start your family down the path of understanding gratitude.

ber can take out one piece of paper and read aloud. It will be a beautiful moment to hear all the big and small things your family appreciates. This simple Thanksgiving Day tradition can become part of your holiday every year.

Thankful Tree Celebrate the beauty of the holiday by creating a festive centerpiece for your Thanksgiving table.

Adorn bare tree branches with homemade leaves. Fill these leaves with words of gratitude.

Kids love to cut, draw and color, they will love to get involved in this project.

Items Needed · Colored paper in fall hues of orange, red, yellow and brown · Scissors · Hole punch · Twine or yarn · Pencils, crayons or markers · 2 or 3 bare tree branches · One pot or vase · Sand, dirt or rocks

Instructions

CEDARS

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Page 16 • lincolnkidsinc.com

· Fold over colored paper and cut out different leaf shapes.

Cut out 25 or 30 leaves. · Using the hole punch, make a hole at the base of each leaf. · Place a piece of twine through the hole on each leaf and tie a knot.

Now Enrolling!

Jar of Thanks Start a week or so ahead of Thanksgiving and have each family member write down what he or she is thankful for on a piece of paper and place it in a jar. If you have younger children give some simple examples of what you are thankful for like a warm fall day or bubble bath. Assist younger children by writing down theirs for them. Continue writing down one each day until Thanksgiving Day arrives. Every family mem-

Your family has created a Thankful Tree which will take center stage on this holiday. If you are inviting guests over on Thanksgiving, have some extra leaves ready for them, so they can be a part of taking a moment to express their gratitude.

· Have every family member write down things they are thankful for on each of their leaves. Encourage using small responses like “my sister” or “getting an A on a test.” · Place sand, dirt or rocks into the bottom of the vase. Place the branches deep into the pot and cover up with the anchor material of your choosing. · Hang the leaves throughout the branches.

Give Back Put the spirit of Thanksgiving into practice by giving back into the community. Younger kids can collect cans of food from friends and family to donate to a local shelter or food bank. Older kids can volunteer at a soup kitchen to assist with their Thanksgiving meal. Call several weeks ahead.

Your kid could help prepare food during the days leading up to the holiday or serve food on Thanksgiving Day. Thanksgiving is generally a time when many tend to overeat.

Consider going another direction and taking part in a charity Turkey Trot or 5K run. Your family can contribute to a good cause and work off some extra calories all at once. Find a local race and start taking donation pledges. Your family will know they have earned their Thanksgiving dinner once they cross the finish line.

Choose one or two of these wonderful ways to bring gratitude into your family’s Thanksgiving holiday. You are helping your children get more out of Thanksgiving than an overstuffed belly and a football game. Your entire family will be more aware of things they are thankful for and hopefully appreciate the big and small things that come along in their life.

Sara Kendall is a freelance writer and mother of two daughters.

Lincoln Kids!

Calling All Rocketeers

E

very now and then I hear from a parent who has come across a nifty project they have done with their own children. My friend Steve, father of Cavett Elementary School students, James, age 10 and Zachary, age 8, shared the following science/craft/artistic Paper Rocket Project with Lincoln Kids!. Steve gives credit to a back-yard party where Southwest High School science teacher, Charles Bittle, demonstrated to the boys how to construct an air powered paper rocket launcher. The concept is quite simple. Buy an eight foot 1/2 inch diameter PVC pipe from your local hardware store. Cut one to four feet in length and a second piece to three feet in length. Attach the two longer pieces together with a PVC elbow joint.

At one end, duct tape on a liter soda bottle (your power source). Use one of your PVC pieces to construct your rockets. Wrap an 81⁄2 x 11 inch piece of paper length-wise around the pipe creating a paper tube. Scotch tape it together. Cut fins and a paper nose cone and attach to the tube. This is your rocket. (You may want to COLOR your rocket to dress it up!) Go outside and place the paper rocket on top of your launcher (make sure you are standing clear). Step on the plastic bottle and watch your rocket take off like a...well a rocket! When tested, my rockets went 25-35 feet high. See how far yours can go! Have fun and be safe. Mark Martin, the Publisher

Items needed are: (1) 8’ half-inch pvc pipe, (1) half-inch pvc elbow joint, plastic liter bottles, duct tape, scotch tape, paper, and sissors.

James and Zachary prepare for lift-off

Duct tape on the liter bottle

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Lincoln Kids!

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Lincoln Kids!

The Overlooked Health Benefits of….Tap Water!

By Bob Rauner, MD, MPH Director of the Partnership for a Healthy Lincoln

I

t seems like everyplace you look there are promotions for the latest supplement that supposedly will make you healthier.

These advertisements drive public health experts crazy because many of the most beneficial things to our health are right in front of us but have no marketing campaigns to promote them. The simplest, most effective health interventions are going for a walk and drinking water, but they have no advertising campaign! What is often overlooked is that local tap water is just as safe as bottled water, plus it has a healthy ingredient that is often overlooked – fluoride.

The history of fluoride in water is an interesting read if you have

some time, but I’ll summarize it here. Fluoride is present naturally in ground water, but in widely varying amounts.

In the early 1900’s, some dentists noted that people who lived in areas where the water supply was high in fluoride had many fewer cavities. This led to an experiment in 1945 where the city of Grand Rapids, Michigan decided to try supplementing its low fluoride water supply which resulted in a more than a 60 percent drop in cavities in Grand Rapids children. Many communities followed their lead resulting in a huge reduction in cavities across the country.

Nebraska’s ground water varies between areas that have naturally

fluoridated water like those the dentists first discovered, and those that need some extra supplementation. Many are surprised when they learn that more than 35 Nebraska cities don’t need to add fluoride because their ground water is already naturally fluoridated in ideal amounts! (visit: http://infohouse.p2ric.org/ref/20/ 19715.htm#dw) The other main health benefit of drinking tap water is more indirect. When you are drinking tap water, you are not drinking something else that is bad for you. Half of the obesity epidemic in the United States is caused by the calories we drink. Water has no calories, so you are not adding any extra calories to your diet.

Plus, water does not have the sugar and acidity present in other

less healthy beverages, so it is healthier for your teeth.

One simple overlooked way of making tap water taste better is making it colder. When you fill up your glass straight from the tap, it isn’t as cold as the bottle you pull from the refrigerator. One old time way of dealing with this is simply to have a pitcher of water in your refrigerator so that when you are thirsty, you have something close at hand that is cold to drink.

So, if you want to improve your health, look at two simple things you can do that are free and always available – a glass of water and a nice walk!

Winter 2013 Page 19

Lincoln Kids!

The Importance of Quality Early Childhood Education

By Gwelda Carlson, Nebraska Dyslexia Association

Q

uality early childhood education plays an important role in influencing the type of person the child will become, since it deals with the period of life when the base for competence and coping skills is established. Research has demonstrated that the base for competence and coping skills depends on the way the brain develops. The wiring and sculpturing of the brain take place during early childhood, and experiences during this period drives the wiring of the brain and builds its basic capabilities.

There are critical periods when a young child requires appropriate stimulation for the brain to develop neural pathways for optimum development of specific capabilities. By age six the critical periods are over or waning. Children, who do not receive

the stimulation necessary for the development of specific capabilities during their critical periods, have great difficulty overcoming deficits later on. Although it is possible to develop the brain’s capacity to compensate and overcome some deficits, full potential will not be achieved.

Quality early childhood education programs can provide essential experiences for brain development and consequently have a direct effect on cognitive abilities.

These experiences can have an enduring effect on intellectual and scholastic abilities and influence

Success in school, and in life.

At Sylvan, we believe learning is personal. Students are assessed and taught using computer adaptive tools. Sylvan also acknowledges students’ academic perseverance and individual needs for school success.

• Develops independent work habits • Improves attitudes • Motivates learning with Ipad instruction • Provides feedback for parents and teachers • Motivational system for students

future learning capacity. Good early childhood education programs can also help children to develop social skills by providing a stimulating positive interaction with the environment, adults, and other children. Although individual children develop at their own pace, all children progress through a sequence of physical, cognitive and emotional growth and change. As children develop, they need different types of stimulation to exercise their evolving skills and to develop new ones.

By the time they enter school, children who attend high quality programs out-perform children in lower quality programs on measures of learning and development. Quality early childhood education programs give children access to the opportunities that promote school readiness and ensure that the school experience will be successful.

Braces and Clear Aligners for Adults and Children

The primary goal of a first rate early childhood program is to help each child reach full potential in all areas of life, develop selfesteem, and provide the experiences from which knowledge is constructed. A quality program is important because it allows children to create themselves through purposeful activity during the most important years for learning.

Children will not be able to achieve their full potential once this critical period for learning is over.

The Nebraska Dyslexia Association is a non-profit organization, providing information and support to individuals, families and the public about reading problems as well as striving to improve educational opportunities for students with reading, writing and spelling difficulties. For more information, contact the NDA: www.ne-da.org or 402-434-6434.

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Page 20 • lincolnkidsinc.com

Paula L. Harre, D.D.S., M.S.

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Creating beautiful smiles since 1995!

Website: www.harreorthodontics.com

Lincoln Kids!

Kids Corps - Raising Up An Army of Songs for Kids

By Gina Boe, Chief Creative Officer, EnCorps Music

K

ids and songs. It’s a relationship that begins at infancy when a mother rocks her baby to sleep singing a lullaby, and the connection continues to grow throughout the years.

That relationship is the foundation for Kids Corps, whose mission is to raise up an army of songs for kids.

I fell in love with songs and the songwriting process as a kid myself. Now, as the Chief Creative Officer for EnCorps Music, the parent company of Kids Corps, it is my hope that through our songwriting and performance classes, more kids will embrace their own song journey and realize their own potential for writing and singing.

In our beginning songwriting

class, kids will learn about the basics of putting words and melody together. We’ll explore things like song structure, what makes a lyric great, why melody matters, and different song genres.

Kids will also learn about co-writing, as well as some basics about the music business. As the class progresses, kids will be encouraged to write consistently, develop co-writing partnerships, and then share their songs with the class.

Our Music, Message, Mission class is a performance-oriented class where kids combine songs, skits, and choreography, to share their Christian faith with others.

Throughout the class, kids will

discover how they can use their creative gifts for greater purposes.

They’ll put an entire program together, then have an opportunity to get out into the community and present their program.

In the summer of 2014, we will begin our summer C.A.M.P. experience. During our week-long camps, kids in grades 3-8 will spend mornings learning songs, skits, choreography, and creating

artwork. They’ll also hear from special guest speakers, and prepare an entire program where they showcase what they’ve learned all week. More information regarding C.A.M.P. will be available on our website soon.

Winter classes will begin in January. For more information or to register, visit our website at encorpsmusic.com or contact Gina Boe at: kidscorps@encorpsmusic.com or call 402-202-6410.

“A Wintery Night” by Kayleigh Bartusek, age 8, Moreley Elementary

Songwriting – Learn the basics of putting words and melody together!

Music, Message, Mission – Songs, skits, and choreography that equip kids to share their faith!

Winter classes begin the week of January 6th Spring classes begin the week of March 3rd Registration forms are available at encorpsmusic.com or by contacting Gina Boe @ 402-202-6410 or kidscorps@encorpsmusic.com

C reative Academy and M issions for the P erforming arts Downtown in the Haymarket at: 701 P Street • 474-1010 or our South Lincoln store at: 4107 Pioneer Woods • 486-1010 www.paintyourselfsilly.net

This week-long summer camp is designed to equip kids to use their creative gifts for greater purposes. Campers will spend each morning learning songs, skits, choreography, and creating group and individual artwork. Then we’ll combine efforts to create an awesome program to share!

C.A.M.P. registration begins February 1st Watch for more details at encorpsmusic.com Winter 2013 Page 21

Lincoln Kids!

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Page 22 • lincolnkidsinc.com

Lincoln Kids!

Lincoln Music Teachers Assocation Hosts Two Special Events

By Jo Riecker-Karl.

Karl Music Studio

December 14th Play-A-Thon In Gateway Mall

T

o raise money for the LMTA Music Outreach Program, the students of Lincoln Music Teachers Association (LMTA) members will play from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm at the Gateway Mall on Saturday, December 14th, 2013. For a list of participating LMTA studios and performing times, visit: www.LMTA.info home page blog a week before the event.

LMTA Music Outreach provides partial scholarships for music lessons, an instrument, and free sheet music to qualified low income students. LMTA believes that music outreach students who receive mentoring in the form of

lessons will eventually serve the community in performance and by becoming good citizens. This program is sponsored in part by grants from the Nebraska Arts Council, The Lincoln Community Foundation, the Cooper Foundation and private donors.

Donations of monies, instruments and sheet music are appreciated. For more information on the Lincoln Music Teachers Association and their Music Outreach Program, visit: www.LMTA.info. All contributions are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law.

January 12th “Taking Flight� a LMTA Extravaganza

P

iano and string teachers from the Lincoln Music Teachers Association (LMTA) will present students in their major event of the year on

Sunday, January 12, 2014 at 3:00 p.m. in the O’Donnell Auditorium at the Vance D. Rogers Center for Fine Arts on the Nebraska Wesleyan University campus. Del Whitman, Lincoln East High School Music Department Chair and string teacher at Lincoln East High School and at Lux Middle School, will conduct. Joe Skare will deliver a narration written by Chad Houk and Amy Flamminio.

Thirteen separate groups of students and teachers will play duets simultaneously on fifteen digital keyboards provided by Dietze Music House. String students will also participate. Each group will wear a different colored t-shirt bearing a logo with the event’s theme. A power point program will illustrate each duet played using wildlife photographs donated by

Steve Zechmann of Lincoln and Joe Wicks of Grand Island. The finale will be a commissioned piece by Carol Klose of Hal Leonard Publishing entitled the Great Winged Migration during which a video provided by the Crane Trust will be shown.

This event is sponsored in part by the Nebraska Wesleyan University Department of Music and Dietze Music House. The public is invited. Tickets may be purchased at the door for $5.00 for adult and $3.00 for ages 16 and under.

More information about this event and the Lincoln Music Teachers Association may be found at: www.LMTA.info.

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Winter 2013 Page 23

Lincoln Kids!

Wendy’s Wonderful Kids

Meet Courtnee

C

ourtnee is a 13 year old lively, energetic girl who always seems to have a smile on her face. Courtnee has a large variety of things that she loves, but topping this list has to be dogs, volleyball and Justin Bieber, in no particular order. In her free time, Courtnee can be found shopping, playing sports or hanging out with her friends talking about boys and giving makeovers.

For more information about Courtnee or other foster children, contact Lisa Kelly, Wendy’s Wonderful Kids Adoptive Family Recruiter, at Lutheran Family Services, 124 South 24th Street, Ste. 200, Omaha, NE 68102.

Or call (402) 661-3135 www.lfsneb.org www.wendyswonderfulkids.org

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Page 24 • lincolnkidsinc.com

Lincoln Kids!

Bullys – Targeting Kids With Allergies

By Anita K. Lovell, MA, LMHP, CPC

I

magine a child spilling milk directly on your severely dairy-allergic child. Your child goes into anaphylaxis, having been bullied specifically because of his or her food allergy.

Children with food allergies are being targeted by kids who harass them sometimes by trying to expose them to the foods they’re allergic to. Food allergy bullying is a growing problem in schools across the country.

The American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology did a study to test the prevalence of this particular issue of children being exposed to the foods they are allergic to as a form of bullying. Not only children were participants, but their parents/caregivers, as well.

It was noted that nearly one third of the food-allergic children have been victims of bullying, teasing or harassment because of their condition.

Other interesting findings from this particular study indicated 80 percent of the incidents happened at school. The behavior ranged from teasing, taunting, waving it in their face, switching a child’s lunch, or being physically touched by the allergen. Bullies will often take advantage of a child’s vulnerability that other children have a

food allergy, which leads to the imbalance of power between bully and victim.

Unfortunately, children will go to great extremes when bullying others.

Researchers say while no allergic reaction was reported as a result of the bullying, the potential is evident. Food allergies have the potential of being life-threatening.

Bullying is defined in the literature as a repeated behavior, both verbal and/or physical, that occurs over time in a relationship characterized by an imbalance of strength and power.

Parents should make sure their child’s schools and teachers are aware of any food allergy, having the proper medications available if needed, and keep a watch for any signs of emotional distress from being bullied. Emotional distress could lead to psychological disorders such as depression, anxiety, oppositional defiant disorder, etc. Some signs to look for in children include: • Afraid to go to school or other activities • Withdrawal • Loss of interest in activities

• Poor performance at school • Isolated from the peer group • Low self-esteem and negative comments • Appears anxious or fearful • Complains of feeling unwell (headaches, stomach aches) • Loses things or reports of being hungry after school • Injuries to include bruising • Damaged clothing or property • Irritability/angry • Trouble sleeping (difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, restless nights, and/or nightmares) • Hurting themselves or others If your child is being bullied, psychological services are one way to address the emotional, social, and behavioral concerns you may see in your child. On the flip side, if you are dealing with a bully, psychological services are a

great way to not only deal with the emotional ramifications, but also demonstrate to the school you are being proactive in caring for your child/adolescent. There are so many issues we can address to relieve the signs and symptoms your child and/or your family may be experiencing.

Anita K. Lovell, MA, LMHP, CPC, with the Kids Corner at AdultSpan Counseling, specializes in behavioral pediatrics working with children 2-18 years old with various mental and behavioral health needs to include bullying and peer relationships. If your child has been a victim of bullying or you are dealing with bullying behavior, please call 402325-0117 ext. 3 to schedule an appointment to address any psychological concerns.

“Portrait of a Horse”

by Lyndi Weber, age 8, student at Art Planet

Winter 2013 Page 25

Lincoln Kids!

Winter 2013-2014 Calendar of Events: Nov - Jan 31, 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 Spring 2014 Issue Deadline: January 10, 2014 Months covered: February, March, April Lincoln Kids! Newspaper Phone: 402-798-0224 November November 1, 7pm - 8:30pm Hayrack Rides at Pioneers Park Nature Center, 3201 S. Coddington, 402-441-8709 Wagon ride followed by a campfire with a live animal, stories and songs. $7/person November 1, 6pm – 8pm Mike Rozier Autograph Signing, Scheels, 2960 Pine Lake Rd, 402-420-9000; scheels.com FREE. The former Nebraska football running back and 1983 Heisman Trophy winner will be signing autographs exclusively at SCHEELS! November 1, 7:30pm Lincoln Symphony Orchestra: Quintessential Classics, Lied Center for Performing Arts, 301 N. 12th St.; liedcenter.org; 402-472-4747 November 1-10, 7pm - 8:30pm Private Hayracks at Pioneers Park Nature Center, 3201 S. Coddington, 402-441-8709 Call for availability.

November 1, 10:30am Flora’s Very Windy Day at SouthPointe Pavilions, 2910 Pine Lake Road, 402-421-7979 Find out what happens when Flora and her pesky little brother, Crispin, are whisked away by a swirling, swooping wind!

November 1, 10:30am Holiday Book Drive for the Child Guidance Center at SouthPointe Pavilions, 2910 Pine Lake Road, 402-421-7979 Join us for a fun family storytime and a special treat. Invite a friend and share the fun!

November 1, 1pm – 6 pm Fundamental of Improv One Day Workshop with Beth Muehling! at Youth Actors Academy, 5930 S. 57th St., Suite C; yaal.org; 402-4509823. Learn the basics of improv. Tuition/$50!

November 1, 4:30pm – 7:00pm International Quilt Museum Free Admission, crafts for children and other fun activities at 1523 N. 33rd; 472-6549; quiltstudy.org; mose2@unl.edu November 1-Jan 5 Math Alive Exhibit at Strategic Air & Space Museum, 28210 West Park Highway, Ashland; 402-944-3100; strategicairandspace.com MathAlive! is designed to inspire, spark the imagination, reveal the endless possibilities of math. Designed for families and students, the exhibition brings to life the real math behind what kids love most – video games, sports, fashion, music, robotics, and more – and creates interactive and immersive experiences.

November 1-3, Performances ThursdaySaturday at 7pm, Sundays at 2pm Young Frankenstein at Haymarket Theatre, 803 Q St., 402-477-2600; haymarkettheatre.org Scientifically-proven, monstrously good entertainment…and ta singing and dancing lab experiment in the largest tuxedo ever made. $10/students/seniors, $12/general admission

Page 26 • www.lincolnkidsinc.com

November 2, 9am -11am NE Dyslexia Association Fall Celebration at St. Mark’s Methodist Church, Lower Fellowship Hall, 8550 Pioneers Blvd. - All members and guests are invited to join us for this special event.

November 2, 11am Saturday Storytime at Barnes & Noble, 5150 O Street, 402-466-7122; barnesandnoble.com An autumn-themed storytime as we get ready for the holidays!

November 2, 11am Holiday Book Drive Storytime at Barnes & Noble, 5150 O Street, 402-466-7122; barnesandnoble.com - Kick-off our Holiday Book Drive for Boys and Girls Clubs of Lincoln with a special storytime. Donations accepted Nov. 1-30.

November 2, 1pm - 3pm Family Tie Dye Event at Art Planet, 402-6102295; artplanetlincoln.com/ - A family that ties together dye’s together...or is it the other way around? At any rate making tie dye shirts is cool! You can all match each other or create designs as unique individuals! Bring a 100% cotton pre-washed shirt.

Saturdays November 2 – December 21, 10am - 4pm, Performances December 20, 21 Annie Auditions, ages 7-15, $325, at Theatre Arts for Kids, Christ Lutheran Church (4325 Sumner St.) TA4Kinfo@gmail.com; TA4K.com November 3, 1pm - 3:30pm Poetry on the Prairie at Pioneers Park Nature Center, 3201 S. Coddington, 402-441-8709, Prairie Building, $5 suggested donation.

Looking out over the prairie and pond, take some time out to share poetry –your own or that of other poets you treasure, or just come and listen. If the weather cooperates, we will spend much of the time outdoors.

November 4, 10:30am NOOK Storytime at Barnes & Noble, SouthPointe Pavilions, 2910 Pine Lake Road, 402-421-7979; barnesandnoble.com - The PoutPout Fish, explore a complementary app. Bring own device or borrow one of ours.

November 5, 7pm ‘Diary of a Wimpy Kid’ Book Eight Release Party at Barnes & Noble, SouthPointe Pavilions, 2910 Pine Lake Road, 402-421-7979; barnesandnoble.com - The ‘Wimpy Kid’ gang is back in their latest book, Hard Luck, and we’re having a party! Pick up your copy and join us for fun games, activities and treats.

November 5, 7pm Swazzle’s Dream Carver, Lied Center Main Stage; Lied Center for Performing Arts, 301 N. 12th St.; liedcenter.org; 402-472-4747 Come early for FamFest at 5:30pm. Free to ticket holders, FamFest provides dinner and fun educational activities for the whole family! This magical bilingual musical features Broadway-

trained puppeteers that would make anyone believe their dreams can come true.

Thursday’s November 7, 14, 21, December 5, 12, 6:30pm - 8:45pm Lamaze- 5 week series at Saint Elizabeth Regional Medical Center, saintelizabethonline.com

Emphasizes active participation of both partners.

Learn a variety of childbirth techniques for relaxation, breathing and coping with labor.

Also medications/types of anesthesia, the process of labor and delivery and postpartum care. Films and time for discussion and practice are included. $65/couple, payment is required in advance to hold your registration.

November 8, 10:30am Ike’s Incredible Ink Storytime at Barnes & Noble, SouthPointe Pavilions, 2910 Pine Lake Road, 402-421-7979; barnesandnoble.com Ike wants to write an incredible story, but he’s not sure what to write about. He does know he’s needs the right ink, though. Join us as we see how Ike’s journey to find the perfect ink becomes his own unique story.

November 8, 7pm Matthew West Concert at Lincoln Berean Church, 6400 S. 70th St.; 430-4834; lincolnberean.org Opening bands Sidewalk Prophets and Jason Castro. Tickets $25 and $35. Group discount: $5 off each ticket for orders of 10 or more.

Enter code “Westgroup” in the promotion box at checkout.

November 8, 8pm – 8am Spend the Night at the Lincoln Community Playhouse, 2500 S 56th St., 402-489-7529, lincolnplayhouse.com Youth Lock-In - an exclusive event for the Playhouse theatre youth, ages 10-15 who have been in a Playhouse show, class, or Theatre Arts Academy. Snacks include pizza, pop, and popcorn with a breakfast of doughnuts and orange juice. Cost/$30 when registering at the Playhouse or $35 if registering online with PayPal. Theatre games, ghost stories, and other activities (adult supervision throughout the event). Kids will sleep on the Main Stage.

November 9, 11am Saturday Storytime at Barnes & Noble, 5150 O Street, 402-466-7122; barnesandnoble.com Mr. Tiger Goes Wild by award-winning artist Peter Brown.

November 9, 2pm Happy Anniversary Storytime! at Barnes & Noble, SouthPointe Pavilions, 2910 Pine Lake Road, 402-421-7979; barnesandnoble.com Barnes & Noble SouthPointe is having an anniversary and we are celebrating 15 years of Storytimes! Read Caterina and the Perfect Party and party-themed activities. Free refreshments and a chance to register to win prizes!

November 9, 9am - 12pm Prairie Run at Pioneers Park Nature Center, 3201 S. Coddington, 402-441-8709 Starts at School House. Entry Fee: $10/kids 1 mile (ages 5-12), $20 adult (13+)/5K Everyone who registers by November 1st will get a special t-shirt. Register at GetMeRegistered. com or call 402-441-7895.

November 9, 2pm Dinner around World at plate and table, 7411 Karl Drive; plateandtable.com Thai Chicken Pasta. $20/student November 9, 8:30am - 11:30am “Sensory Intergration” Workshop at Southeast Community College, Room V103

This workshop will focus on strategies for incorporating sensory calming activities into your child care home or center. Contact Pat Enevoldsen (437-2401) or email penevold@ southeast.edu to reserve your spot. No COST. Nov. 9, 16, Two-session course, 8am – 1pm American Red Cross Babysitter’s Training at Saint Elizabeth Regional Medical Center, saintelizabethonline.com Designed for 11-15 year olds, the Babysitter’s Training 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 baby-sit and yourself safe, handle emergencies such as injuries, illnesses and household accidents, write resumes and interview for jobs. First Aid and CPR certifications. On the day of the class participants are encouraged to bring a snack, juice is provided. Cost is $70/child.

Nov. 9, 16, 23, Dec. 7, 10am - 11:30am Mud Monsters: Alien Adventure—NEW! at LUX Center for the Arts, 2601 N. 48th St.; 402466-8692; luxcenter.org Ages 5-9. Let your child’s imagination run wild in this ceramics class where they will create their own alien adventures out of clay. $60 LUX members (non-members $75) FYCER-04.

Nov. 9, 16, 23, Dec. 7, 1pm - 2:30pm Drawing Animals, Bugs & Critters at LUX Center for the Arts, 2601 N. 48th St.; 402-4668692; luxcenter.org Ages 5-9. If your child has mastered Drawing 101 and wants to explore many-legged creatures, this is the class! Lessons depict hair, scales, composition and proportions. $52 LUX members (non-members $65) FYPNT-05.

Nov. 9, 16, 23, Dec. 7, 1pm - 2:30pm Mapping the World in Clay—New Lessons! at LUX Center for the Arts, 2601 N. 48th St.; 402-466-8692; luxcenter.org Ages 5-9. Your child will investigate the clay artifacts of ancient culture, and then make pots, sculptures, and figurines. Instructor: $60 LUX members (non-members $75) FYCER-05.

Nov. 9, 16, 23, Dec. 7, 3pm - 4:30pm Holiday Gift Making—NEW! at LUX Center for the Arts, 2601 N. 48th St.; 402-466-8692; luxcenter.org Ages 5-9. Celebrate the holidays in this class.

We will use paint, clay, and more to make gifts and wrappings for the whole family. $56 LUX members (non-members $70) FYMIX-02.

Nov. 9, 16, 23, Dec. 7, 10am - 11:30am Pencil Pushers at LUX Center for the Arts, 2601 N. 48th St.; 402-466-8692; luxcenter.org Ages 10-13. 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 these skills. $52 LUX members (non-members $65) FYPNT-08.

Nov. 9, 16, 23, Dec. 7, 1pm - 2:30pm Holiday Gift Making—NEW! at LUX Center for the Arts, 2601 N. 48th St.; 402-466-8692; luxcenter.org Ages 10-13. Celebrate the holidays in this class where we will use paint, clay, and fused glass to make gifts and wrappings for the whole family. $56 LUX members (non-members $70) FYMIX-03.

Nov. 9, 16, 23, Dec. 7, 3pm - 4:30pm Tweens on Wheels at LUX Center for the Arts, 2601 N. 48th St.; 402-466-8692; luxcenter.org Ages 10-13. Work on the potter’s wheel to form bowls, mugs, and vases while exploring the

Lincoln Kids! exciting possibilities of clay. $60 LUX members (non-members $75) FYCER-09.

November 10, 1pm – 6pm Improv-a-long: Fundamentals of Improvisation One Day Workshop, ages 1018, at Youth Actors Academy of Lincoln, 5930 S. 57th St., Suite C; yaal.org; 402-450-9823 This is a beginning class where we focus on the basic skills of improvisation: teambuilding, trust, speed, status, active listening, and agreement. This course will educate and entertain at the same time. Expect a lot of fun and laughing! Tuition: $50 November 11, 6pm – 7pm Benning Irish Social Dancing (Ceili) classes, Lincoln Irish Dancers; lincolnirishdancers.org/ Céilí (KAY-lee) dancing is a popular form of traditional group Irish folk dancing, with an emphasis on fun, friends and moving those happy feet to the beat! Put your skills to the test at the Spring Ceili, a public social dance held the Sunday before St. Patrick’s Day! Lessons meet every Monday for 5 weeks at First Presbyterian Church at 840 South 17th Street, Lincoln. $50 includes $25 for 5 lessons and $25 annual membership.

November 11, 10:30am NOOK Storytime at Barnes & Noble, SouthPointe Pavilions, 2910 Pine Lake Road, Lincoln, NE 68516, 402-421-7979; barnesandnoble.com Llama Llama Time to Share on our NOOKs and play a coordinating app. Bring your own device to this interactive storytime or use one of ours.

November 15, 7:30pm Jim Belushi & The Chicago Board of Comedy, Lied Center Main Stage; Lied Center for Performing Arts, 301 N. 12th St.; liedcenter. org; 402-472-4747 November 15, 10:30am Mr. Tiger Goes Wild Storytime at Barnes & Noble, SouthPointe Pavilions, 2910 Pine Lake Road, 402-421-7979; barnesandnoble.com What happens when Mr. Tiger gets bored with being proper and decides to go wild?

November 15, 7pm - 8:30pm Owl Prowl at Pioneers Park Nature Center, 3201 S. Coddington, 402-441-8709 Prairie Building, $7/person. Who whooos out there? Enjoy the sights and sounds of the Nature Center under a starry sky. We will look and listen for owls and other animals of the night.

Register by November 12.

November 16, Ages 5-8 (K-3rd grade) 9:30am - 11:30am, Ages 9-12 (4-6th grade) 1pm - 3pm Puppet Camp at Art Planet, 402-610-2295; artplanetlincoln.com/ Not only will we be making our own puppet theatres to take home for future perfomances but an array of puppets to play with as well!

Students will learn elements of design while experiencing culture!

November 16, 2pm The Elf on the Shelf Storytime and Adoption Event at Barnes & Noble, SouthPointe Pavilions, 2910 Pine Lake Road, 402-4217979; barnesandnoble.com We will read The Elf on the Shelf book and have activities and treats. We will have a ceremony for anyone wanting to adopt an elf at the event, complete with Official Adoption Certificate!

Nov. 16, Dec. 14, Jan. 4, 11:30am & 1pm The Wicked Weather RoadShow at Strategic Air & Space Museum, 28210 West Park Highway, Ashland; 402-944-3100; strategicairandspace.com - Presented by the WOWT Weather Authority Team

November 16, 11am Saturday Storytime at Barnes & Noble, 5150 O Street, 402-466-7122; barnesandnoble.com Join us for an autumn-themed storytime. We will celebrate the season and do a seasonal craft.

Prairie Building, $7/person. This program will go over our basic needs of food, water, shelter and fi re. Our presenter will have artifacts to demonstrate how to meet these needs when out in the wild so that you could survive!

November 17, 2 – 4pm Lego Sundays at Eiseley Branch Library For all ages: Sundays just got a lot more fun!

Each month we’ll have a new theme to build, whether it is the pyramids and ziggurats or a new city on the Moon. This program is free and open to youth, young adults and their parents.

Nov. 24, 10pm, Nov. 25, 12am Fit for a King: Handel’s Messiah at First-Plymouth Church, 20th & D Streets, Abendmusik, 402-476-9933, abendmusik.org In addition to Handel’s epic oratorio, the noble Plymouth Brass and the heroic Lied Organ will be featured in music. The crowning moment of the concert, though, will occur when everyone in attendance raises the roof of First-Plymouth Church, singing along with the majestic “Hallelujah Chorus” which famously brought no less than a King to offer a standing ovation.

November 17, 1:30pm-4:30pm Sunday with a Scientist: Solar Energy at UNL-Nebraska State Museum in Morrill Hall, 14th & U St., Lincoln; 472-2642; museum.unl. edu. Learn about solar energy and engineering.

Sundays, Nov. 17, 24, Dec. 8, 15, 6:30pm 9:15pm Lamaze Express 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, payment is required in advance to hold your registration.

November 18, 10:30am NOOK Storytime at Barnes & Noble, SouthPointe Pavilions, 2910 Pine Lake Road, 402-421-7979; barnesandnoble.com Join us for this interactive Storytime as we read Shark vs. Train and play a coordinating app on NOOK. Bring own device or use one of ours.

November 18–20, 3pm – 8:30pm The Starry Nights Festival is a family-friendly holiday event, held in the Pinnacle Bank Arena.

View gorgeous, professionally decorated Festival trees, while you enjoy treats and refreshments, and even place a silent bid on your favorite one!

There will be choirs, bands, dancers and more, offering entertainment to guests throughout the day. Help your kids create their very own unique ginger-bread house at one of our Kids’ Creation Stations. And be sure to stop by and say hello to Santa! A professional photographer will be on-hand to take a picture! Tickets will be on sale at the door. Adults: $5, Kids 4–11: $3, Children 3 and under are FREE!

November 25, 10:30am NOOK Storytime at Barnes & Noble, SouthPointe Pavilions, 2910 Pine Lake Road, Lincoln, NE 68516, 402-421-7979; barnesandnoble.com Click, Clack, Moo by Doreen Cronin and explore a complementary app on NOOK. Bring your own device or borrow one of ours.

December December 1, 1pm-3pm Gingerbread Housemaking at Calvert Recreation Center, 402-441-8480 to register.

Structure and all the goodies are supplied for $20/family. Registration required.

December 2, 8am -5 pm A Few of My Favorite Things at Lincoln Children’s Museum, 1420 P St., Wheelchair accessible, 402-477-4000, lincolnchildrensmuseum.org Ages 6-10 , Members/$50, Non Members/$65.

Craft, create, dazzle and delight! A day of artistic creations, inspired by winter traditions.

December 2, 9am – 4pm Let It Snow Fun Day Out of School!/Girl Scouts Spirit of Nebraska at Hilltop House – 1020 Hilltop Road (near 14th & Superior) Open to all girls in Grades Kindergarten - 5th Grade. You do not have to be a current Girl Scout member to attend! New Girl Scout Member Cost: $20/girl includes 2013-2014 membership, supplies, snack & patch. Current Girl Scout Member Cost: $5 includes supplies, snack & patch. Contact Stephanie for more info and how to register at 402-875-4349 or sstickels@ girlscoutsnebraska.org, girlscoutsnebraska.org.

Registration Deadline: November 25th December 3, 4, 7:30pm Cirque Dreams Holidaze, Lied Center Main Stage; Lied Center for Performing Arts, 301 N. 12th St.; liedcenter.org; 402-472-4747

Nov. 21–24, Dec. 5–8, 12–15, various times Marley and Me: One Man Christmas Carol at TADA Theatre, The Creamery Building, 701 P St.; 438-8232; tadaproductions.info November 23, 11am Saturday Storytime at Barnes & Noble, 5150 O Street, 402-466-7122; barnesandnoble.com Join us for Thanksgiving storytime and craft.

November 23, 2013, 9am - 4pm Holiday Farmers’ Market/Community CROPS, 1551 S. 2nd St., 402-474-9802, communitycrops.org - Market will be at Auld Rec Center in Antelope Park.

Get all your Thanksgiving food shopping done in one place and enjoy a meal full of delicious local products of all kinds. Great for kids to come and meet their farmers.

November 23, 1pm – 3pm Survival Basics at Pioneers Park Nature Center, 3201 S. Coddington, 402-441-8709

December 5, 1pm - 3pm Santa’s Workshop at the North “Pole-anet” at Art Planet, 402-610-2295; artplanetlincoln.com/ Ever wanted to teach your kids the value of giving handmade gifts? Come to Art Planet’s workshop where you can work like little elves on a variety of projects.

December 6, 7:30pm Lincoln’s Symphony Orchestra: Deck the Halls, Lied Center Main Stage; Lied Center for Performing Arts, 301 N. 12th St.; liedcenter.org; 402-472-4747

December 6, 5- 8pm U-Stop Holiday Spectacular at Lincoln Children’s Museum, 1420 P St., 402-477-4000, lincolnchildrensmuseum.org Party with your favorite friends from the North Pole! Meet Santa & Mrs. Claus. Visit Santa’s Workshop in the Discovery Gallery. Create winter art projects and holiday crafts. Live music

& dance performances. Regular admission or Museum membership applies.

December 6, 4:30pm – 7:00pm International Quilt Museum Free Admission, crafts for children and other fun activities at 1523 N. 33rd; 472-6549; quiltstudy.org; mose2@unl.edu December 6–15, various times Little Women: The Broadway Musical at Lincoln Community Playhouse, 2500 S 56th St., 402-489-7529; lincolnplayhouse.com December 6-24 Santa’s Workshop – NEW exhibit in the Discovery Gallery at Lincoln Children’s Museum, 1420 P St., 402-4774000, lincolnchildrensmuseum.org Celebrate the whimsy and wonder of the holiday season! Santa’s Workshop opens the night of Holiday Spectacular and remains on display through Dec. 24. Explore a magical space that offers little ones a hands-on glimpse at the world’s best toy factory. Santa’s Workshop brings together traditions from around the globe in a magical way kids will love!

December 7, 8, 14 & 15, 11am – 4pm North Pole Express at Lincoln Children’s Zoo, 1222 S 27th St., 402-475-6741; lincolnzoo.org Experience the magic of a holiday train ride.

Your North Pole Express visit starts with a fun filled train ride around the Zoo. Once you depart the train, journey around the Zoo visiting many of your favorite animals on the way to the North Pole. There you and your children will take part in fun holiday activities and have the opportunity to visit Santa.

December 7, 1:30pm Holiday Treats at plate and table, 7411 Karl Drive; plateandtable.com Double Decker Fudge, Hot Chocolate Mix, Homemade Peppermint Marshmallows. $25 December 7, 9am – 11am Holiday Greenery Workshop at Pioneers Park Nature Center, 3201 S. Coddington, 402-441-8709 Prairie Building, $25/person. Grab a mug or basket from us or bring your own container to decorate. We provide greenery, pine cones, ribbon, wire and the know-how. You’ll have a couple of finished decorations for your home or for gifts. Register by December 4.

December 7, 7am – 3pm Eagle Watching Trip at Squaw Creek National Wildlife Refuge in Missouri. Sponsored

by Pioneers Park Nature Center, 3201 S. Coddington, 402-441-8709 Meet at South Walmart parking lot $45/person.

View a variety of migrating waterfowl and eagles. Refuge staff will be leading programs and manning spotting scopes. Bring your binoculars, we’ll provide transportation and a catered sack lunch. Register by December 4.

December 7, 8, 12, 14 & 15, Saturdays at 10 & 11am and 1, 2 & 3pm, Sundays at 1, 2 & 3pm, Thursday at 10am and 5 & 6pm Candy House Funshop at Lincoln Children’s Museum, 1420 P St., 402-477-4000, lincolnchildrensmuseum.org The perfect activity for the entire family! We supply the 15” house frame, frosting & a variety of candies and decoration toppings, you bring the fun! $25/Museum Members; $30/Nonmembers (includes 2 free admissions) Plus, we’ll even spare you the clean up! Take-home kits available for $25 (Clean up not included.)

Saturdays, December 7, 14 & 21, 1-4pm North Pole Invasion – Santa Visits at Lincoln Children’s Museum, 1420 P St., 402-477-4000, lincolnchildrensmuseum.org This North Pole celebrity will be available for photos as he makes the rounds at the Museum.

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December 7, 8am-12pm Miracle on 70th Street, saintelizabethonline. com. Free family photo with Santa, continental breakfast, Santa’s sleigh and reindeer, Christmas carolers, crafts for children and tours of The Advanced Baby Center and more.

December 7, 3pm-4pm, December 15, 2pm3pm, December 15, 3-4pm Fused Glass Snowflakes at LUX Center for the Arts, 2601 N. 48th St.; 402-466-8692; luxcenter.org Cut and layer glass to create your own holiday inspired sun catchers and ornaments. Ages 7+. $12/1 adult and 1 child, $6/additional person.

FFAM-08, FFAM-09, FFAM-10 December 8, 1pm-4pm Winterfest at LUX Center, 2601 N. 48th, luxcenter.org, 402-466-8692 Free, family-centered event. Winter themed art-making activities for all ages. Everyone is welcome to join us and celebrate the season by making holiday cards, ornaments, and other winter inspired works. Enjoy cookies and cider while browsing galleries and gift shop to find the perfect gift for your loved ones.

December 8, 3pm Lorie Line: Born in Bethlehem, Lied Center Main Stage; Lied Center for Performing Arts, 301 N. 12th St.; liedcenter.org; 402-472-4747 December 12, 6:30pm - 8pm Pizza & Picasso at LUX Center for the Arts, 2601 N. 48th St.; 402-466-8692; luxcenter.org Pizza and a family-friendly project. Space is limited so reserve your spot ahead of time. $40/session for up to 4 family members, $10/ additional person. FFAM-14. Winter Paintings December 12, 13, 14, 19, 20, 21 at 7pm and December 15, 21 at 2pm.

Performances of Toyland at Haymarket Theatre, 803 Q St., 402-477-2600; haymarkettheatre.org This is the holiday musical classic in its newest adaption to date!

December 14, 10am - 11am Destination Creation at LUX Center for the Arts, 2601 N. 48th St.; 402-466-8692; luxcenter.org Embark on an artistic journey in these creative workshops for families. Art projects are age appropriate for toddlers to tweens and each session has a different theme. Pre-registration required. $12/1 adult and 1 child, $6/additional person (no membership discount) FFAM-03.

Winter Ornaments with Allie Reno Dec. 14, 1pm-2:30pm, 3pm-4:30pm Felted Ornaments at LUX Center for the Arts, 2601 N. 48th St.; 402-466-8692; luxcenter.org Turn wool into a one-of-a-kind holiday ornament using a wet-felting technique. Appropriate for all ages. $24/1 adult and 1 child, $12/additional person. FFAM-11, FFAM-12 December 14, 9:30am – 5pm Play-A-Thon in Gateway Mall to Benefit LMTA Music Outreach To raise money for the LMTA Music Outreach Program, the students of Lincoln Music Teachers Association (LMTA) members will play at the Gateway Mall. For more information on The Lincoln Music Teachers Association and their Music Outreach Program, see LMTA. info Music Outreach. All contributions are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law.

December 14, 2pm, 7 pm, December 15, 2 pm Lincoln Midwest Ballet Company presents its 29th production of the The Nutcracker at the Lied Center for Performing Arts, 301 N. 12 St., 402-472-4747, liedcenter.org December 14-16 Glories Stream from Heaven Afar at First-Plymouth Church, 20th & D Streets,

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Abendmusik, 402-476-9933, abendmusik.org The Christmas story will be illuminated through message and music, story and song. Hear the magical message of the angels and journey with the kings as they follow that wondrous star toward love’s pure light—wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.

December 15, 2 – 4pm Lego Sundays at Eiseley Branch Library Each month we’ll have a new theme to build, whether it is the pyramids and ziggurats or a new city on the Moon. This program is free and open to youth, young adults and their parents.

December 15, 1:30pm-4:30pm Sunday with a Scientist: Shh! Plant Gene Silencing at UNL-Nebraska State Museum in Morrill Hall, 14th & U St., Lincoln; 4722642; museum.unl.edu. Plant metabolism at a molecular level December 19, 7:30pm Canadian Brass Christmas, Lied Center Main Stage; Lied Center for Performing Arts, 301 N. 12th St.; liedcenter.org; 402-472-4747 Dec. 21, Ages 5-8, 9:30am - 11:30am Ages 9-12, 1pm - 3pm Santa’s Workshop at the “North Pole-anet” at Art Planet, 402.610.2295; artplanetlincoln.com/ Students get to work like little elves making old tyme gifts for family and friends. Art making and gift giving at its old fashioned best!

December 26, 10am – 11am Playful Puppets: Animals in Winter at Pioneers Park Nature Center, 3201 S. Coddington, 402-441-8709

Prairie Building, $3/person. Enjoy a puppet show and learn what the animals of the Nature Center are up to in the winter. Are they sleeping?

Where do they fi nd their food? There will also be fun interactive activities following the show.

lincolnplayhouse.com

January 1, 2014 New Year’s Eve Last Blast: The Levick Legacy Society Concert at First-Plymouth Church, 20th & D Streets, Abendmusik, 402476-9933, abendmusik.org Jack Levick is the featured guest conductor. The New Year’s Eve concert menu offers listeners an eclectic taste of brass and organ favorites. A gala champagne and dessert reception to honor Jack Levick available at Intermission.

January 2, 10am – 11am Storytelling & Music at Pioneers Park Nature Center, 3201 S. Coddington, 402-441-8709 Prairie Building, $3/person. Join our Naturalist for an interactive morning of seasonal songs and stories. Some instruments will be provided and participants are welcome to bring their own.

January 2, 10am-11am Author Storybook Reading at Pioneers Park Nature Center, 3201 S. Coddington, 402-4418709. Fee: $3/person Come listen to a reading of “Have You Seen Mary?” by Gretna author and NEBRASKAland Magazine editor Jeff Kurrus. Prairie Building January 2, 3, 8am – 5pm Beach Blanket Bonanza! at Lincoln Children’s Museum, 1420 P St., 402-477-4000, lincolnchildrensmuseum.org Ages 6-10 . Members/$65, Non Members/$80.

The sun and fun are coming indoors for a day of beach-themed activities, games and more!

January 3, 4:30pm – 7:00pm International Quilt Museum Free Admission, crafts for children and other fun activities at 1523 N. 33rd; 472-6549; quiltstudy.org; mose2@unl.edu January 11, 2pm Dinner’s on Me! at plate and table, 7411 Karl Drive; plateandtable.com Ham and Cheese Stromboli

December 26-30, 9:30am – 3:30pm, Performance December 30, 7pm Aristocats Winter Workshop for ages 4-15, $225, at Theatre Arts for Kids, Christ Lutheran Church (4325 Sumner St.) TA4Kinfo@gmail. com; TA4K.com December 30 – January 3, 9:30am – 3:30pm, Performance January 4 Alice @ Wonderland Winter Break Workshop at Youth Actors Academy of Lincoln, 5930 S. 57th St., Suite C; yaal.org; 402-450-9823 Grades 1 – 8, Tuition: $150 December 31, 6:30-8:30pm Make Believe Midnight at Lincoln Children’s Museum, 1420 P St., 402-477-4000, lincolnchildrensmuseum.org Celebrate the New Year and still make it home before bedtime. Games, dancing, balloons, bubble stomps and more! At 8 p.m., say farewell to Father Time & welcome Baby New Year. As always, a countdown to the ball & balloon drop.

Advance tickets required. Available online and at the Museum beginning Nov. 29. Tickets are $7/Museum Members & $12/Non-members; children under 12 months are free.

January 11, 3:30pm Disney Days Celebration, AAA Travel Agency hosts at Country Inn & Suites, 5353 N 27th St. Special Disney Guest attending. Exclusive discounts & offers this day only! Refreshments and door prizes. RSVP at 402-441-4500 January 12, 3pm Lincoln Music Teachers Association presents “Taking Flight” - LMTA Extravaganza Piano and string teachers from the Lincoln Music Teachers Association (LMTA) will present students in their major event of the year in the O’Donnell Auditorium at the Vance D. Rogers Center for Fine Arts on the Nebraska Wesleyan University campus. Thirteen separate groups of students and teachers will play duets simultaneously on fifteen digital keyboards.

String students will also participate. Public is invited. Tickets may be purchased at the door for $5/adult, $3/ages 16 and under. More information about this event and the Lincoln Music Teachers Association at LMTA.info.

January 16, 7:30pm Take 6, Lied Center Main Stage; Lied Center for Performing Arts, 301 N. 12th St.; liedcenter. org; 402-472-4747 January 17–19, 23-26, various times Barefoot In The Park at Lincoln Community Playhouse, 2500 S 56th St., 402-489-7529;

January 19, 2 – 4pm Lego Sundays at Eiseley Branch Library Each month we’ll have a new theme to build, whether it is the pyramids and ziggurats or a new city on the Moon. This program is free and open to youth, young adults and their parents.

January 19, 9am – 4pm Husker Toy and Belt Show at Lancaster Event Center, 4100 N 84th St., lancastereventcenter.com Thousands of collectible toys and buckles, Tonka, Hot Wheels, Matchbox, Pedal Toys, plus repair parts. Vendors from 9 states filling 200 tables to buy sell or trade. See the new Farm Diorama/Display contest. Adult, $4 and children under 10, free – sold only at the door January 20, 8am – 5pm The Amazing Chase at Lincoln Children’s Museum, 1420 P St., 402-477-4000, lincolnchildrensmuseum.org Ages 6-10 . Members/$50, Non Members/ $65. Will you be the next Kid President? We’ll discuss ideas that matter to kids, campaign, create a Camper Constitution, write speeches and even cast a vote!

January 21, 10am – 11am or 1pm – 2pm Preschool Open House at Pioneers Park Nature Center, 3201 S. Coddington, 402-441-8709 Inclement Weather Date: January 28 ,Tuesday.

The Nature Center preschool and prekindergarten programs are for children ages 3–5. You are invited to attend an open house to see the classrooms and meet with our director.

January 23, 6pm Westminster Preschool Open House and Registration for Summer & the 2014-2015 School year. Contact Suzanne Schneider, 402-475-6702 ext. 103, suzanne@westminsterlincoln.org, or visit our website at: wpslincoln.org January 25, 10am–12pm, 1:30pm–3:30pm My Doll and I Learn Men are Quilters Too at International Quilt Museum, 1523 N. 33rd; 472-6549; quiltstudy.org; mose2@unl.edu Explore the exhibition “The Engineer Who could: Ernst Haight’s Half-Century of Quiltmaking.” We’ll learn about Ernst Haight’s engineering background, the wooden puzzles he made and how he came to quiltmaking.

Dolls from the 1940’s will be featured. Students will make a “Magic Square” fabric puzzle, design a quilt with graph paper and crossstitch a gingham apron for their doll. Activities and snacks from the period will be included.

Children are encouraged to bring their favorite doll. Price: $12/members; $15/non-members plus $5 for materials January 28, 7:30pm Martha Graham Dance Company, Lied Center Main Stage; Lied Center for Performing Arts, 301 N. 12th St.; liedcenter.org; 402-472-4747

ONGOING Indigo Bridge Books 701 P St., Ste. 102; 402-477-7770, Creamery Bldg. in Haymarket; indigobridgebooks.com

Mondays & Tuesdays from 10-11am. Story time session includes music, games, crafts.

Monday, Wednesday, Fridays 11:30am-1pm. Serving soup and bread. The food is available on a pay-as-you-can basis rather than with a set menu price so that everyone can afford to sit at The Table.

Lincoln Kids!

Second Fridays 10-1 1am, IndiZOO IndiZ ZOO features animal-related 10-11am, animal-based stories, animal-b based crafts and the animals!

Kids meet a local loccal animal in a safe, hands-on environment wit with th a trained animal expert to teach them about abou ut eating, sleeping and social habits.

Saturdays Bilingual English h-Spanish Story T ime English-Spanish Time 10-11am, 10 10-1 11am, 1am Every Saturday morning, morning bring the kiddos down for a story in English with Spanish vocabulary y, a game gaame of Spanish BINGO and a vocabulary, related craft to wrap w up the hour. hour. While story time is intended for f ages 4-8, most children find activities one of the activit ties fun and educational.

Lincoln Lincoln City Libraries lincolnlibraries.org lin ncolnlibraries.org Anderson…3635 Anderson… …3635 Touzalin…441-8540 To ouzalin…441-8540 Bennett Martin…136 Marttin…136 S. 14th…441-8566 Bethany…1810 Bethany…1810 N. Cotner…4441-8550 Eiseley 1530 Superior…441-4250 Eiseley…

Superior 441 4250 Eiseley…1530 Gere…2 2400 S. 56th…441-8560 Gere…2400 South…2675 South St.…441-8570 South…2675 Walt…6 a 6701 S. 14th…441-4460 Walt…6701 Williams…5000 Williams…500 00 Mike Scholl St.…441-8580

Baby Storytime Storytimes es at Walt Walt 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 hs. months.

Pr eschool Storytime Story ytime Preschool For ages 3-5. Cal ll for information.

Call T oddler Time o 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.

Waalt.

Eiseley, Storytimes for Families F Family Storytim es are intended for parents and Storytimes their preschool to t elementary-age children and include crafts. Call C for times and locations at Gere South, Gere, South or Walt.

Waalt. alt 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 402-610-2295; 402-610-2 2295; artplanetlincoln.com

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

W eednesday mor rnings at 9:15-10am Wednesday mornings Pr eschool Paint-n-Play: Paintt-n-Play: Storybook based art Preschool lessons for you and an nd your preschooler (ages 2-4).

One class at $15/class $15 5/class or monthly registration cost of $50/month! $50/mon nth! Siblings can attend for an additional $5/cla ass. Begins in September! $5/class.

After School Art Arrt Clubs Every Thursday.

Thursday y. T ravel to a different diffferent f Travel country while taking a year-long yeear-long trip around the world!

At each destination, destinattion, explore the history of the country’ country’ss culturee as it relates to art and artists.

Open Studio Ar rt: Just for T eeens (13+) Art: Teens Every Tuesday, Tuesday u , 6-7pm for students who would like to work independently indep pendently to make art. Students may make full us usee of the studio and supplies with Director supervi ision and advice. No planned supervision instruction is given. giv ven. Special arrangements need to be made for pottery pottery and clay, clay, additional fees will apply pp y, subjec j ct to availability y. apply, subject availability.

MilkW orks MilkWorks 5930 S. 58 58th, 8th, Ste W; W; 402-423-6402; Register and an nd times at milkworks.or milkworks.org g

All About Br Breastfeeding easstfeeding For expectant moms and dads. Learn breastfeeding b basics, asics, as well as the most

rs face when common challenges that mother mothers breastfeeding, and how to get support. Fee o Work Work o class is $25. Includes our Return to below. described below.

1st W Wednesdays ednesdays Pr eschool Mom m’s Night Out, Out, 6:30-8pm Preschool Mom’s Speakers, arts, crafts, crafts, parenting skills. RSVP deb@firstplymou uth.org for child care. No cost. deb@firstplymouth.org

ork Return to W Work wo ork or school For new mothers returning to work breastfeediing. Learn the outside the home while breastfeeding. g milk, federal “ins and outs” of pumping, storing yo our day care regulations and working with your provider. This class is included in the p t fee for our provider. o may attend ou All About Breastfeeding class. Y You y is born. (Fee while pregnant, or after your baby class.) is $10 if not signed up for AAB class.)

3rd Fridays Preschool Family y Fun, 6-8:30 p.m. various locations. Season nal themes and family fun for Seasonal families with infants-preschoolers. infaants-preschoolers.

Introducing Solids & Making g Your Your o Own Introducing Baby Food wh ho are 3 to 9 Perfect for parents of babies who months old. This class covers tipss on readiness introducin ng new foods signs, safety awareness, introducing and making your own baby food (save money organic if you want to!). Fee Feee is $10. and go organic

Lincolln Berean Berean Chur ch Lincoln Church lincolnberean.org 6400 S. 70th St.;; 430-4834; lincolnberean.org

alk Mom T Talk breastfeeeding mothers Bring baby and join other breastfeeding for companionship and to share breastfeeding registrattion required. information. FREE. No registration Just drop in! All moms welcome.

Tw win T alk a Twin Talk multiples! If you are Support for moms of multiples! breastfeedin ng multiples, expecting twins, or breastfeeding l and please join other moms for learning O support. FREE. No registration. Older siblings l welcome. eigh Station Baby W Weigh weig gh your baby 7 days a week - Drop in and weigh Wo orks during open hours. W at MilkW MilkWorks Wee will teach d answer basic you how to use our baby scale and We are questions you have about weight gain. We y, so no need to o worry about a well-child facility facility, sick children in the waiting room! FREE. Weigh & Stay at LMEP, LMEP P, 46th & Valley Valley a Weigh Road, you ur baby, baby, visit Rm 230. - Drop in to weigh your i h a Lactation L i Consultant C l and d ask a k questions i with baby’s latch or weight gain. g about your baby’s There is w no fee for this service. All moms welcome.

Miscellaneous Ongoing Ev Events vents Tuesdays T uesdays & Thursdays u Clinic with a Heart, 1701 S. 17th S St. 5:30clinicwithaheart.org, FREE 7:30pm; clinicwithaheart.or g, FRE EE Saturday Nights at 8 - 1 1pm 11pm Hyde Memorial Observatory, Observatorry, Holmes Lake, three telescopes, video o programs, knowledgeable volunteers. spacelaser.com spacelaaser.com Ager Play Center 1300 S. 27th St.; $2.75/person 12 1 months & older older,, 441-6788. M-F 9am-5pm; (next door to zoo) Play space for small children, children, toddlers and all ages. Reading area, 2-level pla ay structure, 3 play ball pits, slides and a maze of tu unnels, riding tunnels, toys and wagons. Children must be 3 or older and under 48” tall to play in struct ture. structure.

Every Friday, Friday, 9:30–11:30am 9:30–11:30am Pr eschool Playdays Solid Rock Gymnastics Preschool at 610 Hill St. Parent supervised playtime. p Free Play in both main Gym and PreSchool PreSch hool gym. $5/ child (adults free). solidrockgymn astics.com/ solidrockgymnastics.com/ Every Tuesday, Tu uesday, 10:30 a.m.–11:30am a.m.–11:30 0am Paint Yourself Yo ourself Silly: Preschool Preschool Story Story & Paint T ime, 4107 Pioneer Woods Wo oods Dr. Dr. Ste S 103. Story Time, and learn a new technique as we paint p a project that pertains to book. Cost range between $8$14 depending on the project. project 402 2-486-1010 402-486-1010 YMCA A Camp Kitaki 402-434-9222; ymcalincoln.or g/kiitaki ymcalincoln.org/kitaki See page 40 for events.

C First-Plymouth, UCC 2000 D Street; 402-476-7550; firstp firstplymouth.org plymouth.org

2nd Thursdays Pet Grief Grou up in Resource Room. An Group interfaith support group for anyone mourning a recent passing of an animal companion.

Fridays Celebrate Recov ery y, biblically based 12-step Recovery, recovery program m for overcoming addictive,

c beh haviors. Free compulsive and dysfunctional behaviors. c activities: infants -8th grade. childcare/kid infants-8th 6 Worship. o 6:50PM, Praise & Worship.

8PM, Open Share s groups. 9PM, “Crosstalk” Fellowship Fellowship and small s CofffeeHouse. f 402-483-6512 snacks in CoffeeHouse.

402-483-6512 UNL Athletics 472-1132 472-1 132 or (800) 8-BIGRED 8-BIGRE ED

Nov 02 Northwestern at TBA N N 09 Michigan at Ann Arbor, Nov Arbor, Mich.

Miich.

N 16 Michigan State at TBA Nov N 23 Penn State at State College, Nov Collegee, Pa. Nov 29 I Iowa HOME at 1 1 a.m.

11

Out-of-Town O Out-of-T To own Events Homestead National Monument H 8 8523 W. State Hwy. Hwy. 4, Beatrice, W. 4 402-223-3524; nps.gov/home

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 support port group schedules, organizations, organizations, 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 Car egivers Meeting Caregivers 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 Attach Library,, 2400 Attach-ment Parenting Intern national (API) is to promote parenting International practices that create strong, healthy emotional bonds be be-tween children and the eir parents. W their Wee believe these practices nurture and fulfill a child’ child’ss 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 redu uce or prevent child abuse, behavioral reduce disorders, criminal acts acts and other serious social problems.

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 Groups Groups o V aarious cancer suppo ort groups and services for patients, Various support family members, frie ends. T o find out more, contact the friends.

To American Cancer So ociety, 5733 S 34th Street, Ste 500, Society, 402-423-4888 Charlie Br own’s Kids Kid ds Grief Support Group Group Brown’s 1st & 3rd Thursdays, 6-8 p.m. Grief support group for chilchildren ages 3-18 who have haave experienced the death of a parent.

Caregivers meet at sa ame time. Y o outh share their feelings same Youth through books, books discussions, discusssions, ssions art, art writing and remembrance projects. Sheridan Lutheran, Lu utheran, 6955 Old Cheney, Cheney, 483-1845, 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 Tuesday, Tu uesday, 6-7:30PM. 6-7:30P PM. Parenting network. Creative/chalCreative/challenging activities for children, support/education for par par-ents. Family meal provided. pro ovided. 5903 Walker Walker a Av ve., 471-3700 Ave., 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 char ge. Thursdays charge.

South Group meets 3rd Thursdays 6:30PM, Aldersgate United Methodist Church, Ch hurch, 8320 S. St.; 450-3240; robroberts1715@gmail.com m; Friday Breastfeeing Cafe, 10:30AM erts1715@gmail.com; at Eiseley Branch Library, Library, 1530 Superior St., 402-5408568, brooke@thousandhills.org; brooke@thousaandhills.org; Toddler Toddler o Group, 10AM, W arren a United Metho odist Church, 1205 N. 45th St., Abi, Warren Methodist 402-465-8065, webhe enke@windstream.net webhenke@windstream.net Lincoln Area Area Families Families with Multiples For families welcomi ing multiples into their lives, and the welcoming 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 Washington, Washington, Tuesdays, Tuesdays, u Grace 9:3011AM, conversation, speakers, crafts, snacks, snack ks, service 11AM, p & various topics; also holiday parti ies & field trips. projects parties D available: $3/1 child and $1 each additional. Me Daycare Me-liissa Nickolaus, 464-6921 lissa M (Moms Offering Moms Support) Clu Club ub of Lincoln MOMS W Intern national MOMS Wee are the Lincoln chapter of the International C Club®, a non-profit organization organization specifica ally for at-home specifically m moms.

Each month we have several different difffferen nt events for our m b membersb kf t book breakfasts, b k clubs, l b play l group groups, ps, mom’s mom’’s night i ht o to name just a few! Our goal is to support out sup pport each other th through hrough friendship, group activities, and service serrvice projects in th he Lincoln area. http://momsclublincoln.weebly.com http://momsclublincoln.w weebly.com the Montessori After Six M F parents of children 5-9 years, Lincoln For Lincoln Montessori S School, 489-81 10 489-8110 MOPS (Mothers of Pr M eschoolers) Preschoolers) 1 3rd Wednesdays, 1st, Wednesdays, e n Church, 9300 Southwood Lutheran S 40th St. (south of 40th & Yankee S. Yaankee Hill Rd.) R 9-11:15AM. 9-11:15AM. S Speakers, crafts, book club, playgroups, babysitting coo and activities for children. Daycare available. op, av vailable. southsouthw 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 mopsmothers-of-pre-schoolers h f h l J if 402-328-9247; 402 328 9247 or Jennifer: je ennifermchargue@hotmail.com jennifermchargue@hotmail.com 1st & 3rd Thursdays, 9-11 1 9-11 a.m., New Covenant Co ovenant Church, 6 6000 prog gram to encourencourS. 84th St. Non-denominational program a age, equip, and help women become the best b moms they c can be. Build friendships; have fun with h other moms.

W omen o with children birth through kinder gaarten are invited Women kindergarten to o join. Childcare provided. All children ar re cared for in a are n nurturing exp perience love in and fun atmosphere. They will experience a preschool like setting. $6/meeting. Becky, Becky, 402-484- 5033; m mopsnewcov .blogspot.com mopsnewcov.blogspot.com MOTHER ME M Weekly W eekly e mommies group to support mothers motthers of infants through A place for th h hrough h pre-schoolers. h l l f moms to o come and d talk, lk laugh Wee meet in la augh and/or cry if they need to. W n the evening for who are unable to attend daytime me meetings.

Wee have m moms eetings. W a love of fun, and love for new moms to join n us at any time!

Tuesdays T uesdays from 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm. Insidee Trinity Trrinity ChiroChirop practic in the Inspire ME meeting space att 3120 O Street. information C Contact julia@circleme.me for more inform mation Mourning Hope Grief Support M 4 402-488-8989, email hope@mourninghope e.org or visit hope@mourninghope.org m mourninghope.or g mourninghope.org Mom Support Gr M oup Group W ednesdays, e Bryan Health Family Birthpla ace at Institute Wednesdays, Birthplace f W for omen’ o s & Children’ ted by lactation Women’s Children’ss Health. Facilitat Facilitated c consultants. l 1:30-2:30PM. 1 30 2 30 402-481-7103 402 481 103 Open Hearts Adoption Support Group O Group F Fellowship for families who have adopted cchildren; family c centered events (such as Christmas Party E Party, Party,, Ethnic Party, P Picnic, Mother ’s Tea, Tea, e Harvest Party). Supported Suppo orted through Mother’s d dues and gifts. All families welcome, especially especcially if you w want to find out more about adoption! Date es and locations Dates v vary a lincoln_openlincoln_openvary,, contact Sherie Quirie, 465-5841 or at h heartsadoption.blogspot.com Par P ents of Children Children with Feeding Difficu ulties Parents Difficulties M Monthly onal Medical Monthly,, lower level Saint Elizabeth Regio Regional C Center Center,, 575 S. 70th St. Bringing parents of children with f feeding dif ffficulties together to share experie ences, helpful difficulties experiences, h hints, p recipes, and information on feeding programs/clinics in n the surrounding area. Visit Visit bigtent.com/groups/feedingbigtent.com/groups/feedings souls; Mid dwest; JenniferJenniferFacebook at Feeding Souls of the Midwest; M McHar gue@hotmail.com; Jennifer 328-924 47 McHargue@hotmail.com; 328-9247 Clubs & Organizations C T Prairie Astronomy The Astronomy Club L Tuesday Last Tuesday of the month, open to public,, 7:30PM. Hyde M Memorial Observatory, south side of Holmes Holm mes Lake. praipraiObservatory, rrieastronomyclub.org rieastronomyclub.or g

Winter 2013 Page 29

Lincoln Kids!

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

Name

Instruction

Atkinson Music Studio

Campus Recreation

Swimming

Capital City Gymnastics

Gymnastics

402-474-0302

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.

Piano Guitar, Bass and more

South Central Lincoln

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

Blue Raven Guitar Studio

email: hello@artplanetlincoln.com Web: www.artplanetlincoln.com Tamara 402-610-2295

Private Suzuki and modified violin and viola lessons. All levels. Over 25 years experience. Laura Atkinson. Member of Lincoln Suzuki Talent Education, Inc.

Violin & Viola

Alice Bowen

Location(s) & phone

Kid centered and 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 & techniques all year long!

New open studio for independent study. Southeast Lincoln location.

Art

Art Planet

Bailey Music Studio

Program

Guitar, Bass, Drum, Piano, Dobro, Lap Steel, Mandolin, Banjo and Voice instruction for all ages. All styles taught for beginners–advanced. Fun, positve learning environment. Reduced rate classes for kids ages 5–9.

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

402-486-0599

UNL Campus 402-472-3467

Individual, group, and parent/child swim lessons.

Red Cross levels I-V. Ongoing sessions.

Mabel Lee Hall Pool, University of Nebr

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”.

5030 N. 57th • 402-464-9692 www.capitalcitygymnastics.net

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.

Encore Studio

Piano/Keyboard

Piano lessons and piano/keyboard classes for all levels.

Beginners all ages. Studio is located near 70th & O Street.

Harris Academy of the Arts

Music Lessons Spanish

LearningRx

Language Classes

Learning & Reading

Lincoln Racquet Club

Tennis/Swimming

LUX Center for the Arts

Art Classes

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.

Gymnastics & Sports Skills

Nissaʼs String Studio

Violin, Viola Guitar, Piano, Bass

plate & table

Cooking Lessons

Page 30 • www.lincolnkidsinc.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

Access www.LMTA.info for a Teacher Directory.

Scholarships available for those who qualify!

My Gym

www.harrisacademyofthearts.com

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!

Music Lessons

(across from So. Pointe Mall)

402-423-7121

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!

Lincoln Music Teachers Assn.

Musically Speaking

2935 Pine Lake Rd

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!

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.

402-484-6809

2501 S. 20th St. • 402-435-0386

Childrenʼs Music Early Childhood Academy Harris Academy of the Arts Piano

The Language Project

27th & South Street Area

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!

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!

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

7411 Karl Drive

402-540-2738 www.plateandtable.com

Lincoln Kids!

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

Name Skate School–The Bay

Instruction

Program

Skateborading

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.

Tiger Rock Academy TNT Handwriting

Tutoring

Universal Dance Academy

Dance/

Urban Legends Youth Actorsʼ Academy of Lincoln

Cheer & Theater

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

TNTHandwriting.com

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

402-421-3538 400 N. 48th Street • Suite C01 402-477-5900

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

Urban Legends offers Kids Ed art Classes in Acrylic painting, collage, clay, beginning sewing, and jewelry creations.

(Recommended for kids ages 8–14) Creative Family Art-Saturday Mornings Open studio -10am–12:30. Geared toward toddlers & parents. Great for “Dad’s day out” or time with grandparents, too. Ask about our Summer camps!

Performing Arts

402-483-1011

2632 N 48th St. 402-470-0331 urbanlegendsartclasses.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, arts & crafts, watercolor painting, and play group. Sessions begin every month. Play Center is open Mon-Sat for indoor play.

Admission is $3/person, $2.75 with Zoo Admission. 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)

Kindermusik Harris Academy of the Arts

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

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

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.

Kindermusik of Lincoln

Kindermusik of Lincoln, is Lincoln’s longest running Kindermusik program.

Features music, movement and ASL combined for the total development of your infant.

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.

Twinkle Toes Music

Twinkle Toes Music offers fun and engaging movement and music classes for children birth through age five using the Musicgarten curriculum. The relaxing, but stimulating environment enables children to experience music in a meaningful way.

Serving Lincoln and surrounding communities. Call today for your Free preview class!

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

2935 Pine Lake Rd

(across from So. Pointe Mall)

402-423-7121 www.harrisacademyofthearts.com

Shawna Gordon 402-770-1486 www.kindermusikoflincoln.com 2755 Jamie Lane, Suite 4 (near S 27th & Yankee Hill Road)

402-802-9982 5900 South 58th St. Suite H Nichole Mumm, 402-238-7153 facebook.com/twinkletoesmusikgarten

We hope you will join us for the Spring 2014 (camp) Issue.

Ad, Article and Children’s art deadline is January 15th, 2014 Phone: 402-798-0224 • Email: lincolnkids@windstream.net • Web: lincolnkidsinc.com Winter 2013 Page 31

Lincoln Kids!

...plus private school, preschool and after school Directory Name

Area of Town

Academic Advantage Child Development Center

Central/South

Aspen Child Development Center & Montessori School

Southeast

Brandyʼs Bunch

Southeast

Bubbles & Blocks Child Development Center, LLC

Northeast

CEDARS

North Central

Christ Kids Child Care and Preschool

Central

Colorful Minds Child Development Center

South

Dimensions Early Education Programs @ First-Plymouth

Central

Dual Language Preschool

South

First Learning Center

Southeast

4 Views Academy

Northeast

Highlands Academy

Northwest

Immanuel Lutheran

Central

Preschool

Kellyʼs Kids Learning and Development Center

Kids Imagination Station

Northwest Near South

Program

Location(s) & phone

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 & our new baby room.

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 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.

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.

8521 Lexington Ave. 402-328-0404

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

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!

located in First-Plymouth Church, 20th & D Sts.

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.

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

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.

402-476-8304

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

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.

La Petite Academy

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

Lincoln Christian Preschool

South

Academic Christian Preschool 2 or 3 days per week.

AM and PM sessions.

5801 S. 84th St. 488-8888 x252 www.lincolnchristian.org/preschool

Southeast

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

MyLittleLearners.com

Krayon Campus

Little Learners Preschool and Academy Page 32 • www.lincolnkidsinc.com

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

402-840-1196

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

continued

Name

Area of Town

Program

Location(s) & phone

Northeast

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.

Montessori School For Young Children

Central

Montessori prepared classrooms. Morning Toddler program for 18 mos–3 years.

Morning, afternoon or all day Preschool programs for ages 3–6. Spanish classes included in Preschool program. Music Therapy classes included for 18 mos–3 years.

Pioneers Park Nature Center Preschool

West

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

Living Faith Daycare

Prairie Hill Learning Center

Far South

Montessori

East

Prairieview Preschool

South

Open 7:15 to 5:45 pm. Ages 18 months to 6 years. Part time or full time.

Professionally Certified/Degreed staff.

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.

Child development Center

www.redeemerlincoln.org

3341 Pioneers Blvd.

402-484-8277 1345 S. 16th • 402-475-9731 7130 Kentwell Lane • 402-421-0184 Westminster Presbyterian Church 2110 Sheridan Blvd. www.wpslincoln.org 402-475-6702 ext 103

South

Southeast

7 miles South of Lincoln on Hwy 77

402-438-6668 www.prairiehill.com

Kitra Deger-Director

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

World of Knowledge

parks.lincoln.ne.gov/naturecenter/preschool

510 S. 33rd • 402-477-1710

The Childʼs View

Child Development Center

West end of Pioneers Park 402-441-7895

143rd “O” St. • 402-488-0012

Christian based preschool for 3-5 year olds, three class options including 5 days a week. AM preschool from 8-11:30am. Children will enjoy art, songs/music, stories, learning centers & more. Across from Woods Pool. Email: rlpreschool@yahoo.com

Near Downtown & Far South

MontessoriLincoln.org

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.

Central

Trinity Infant & Child Care Centers

4727 A Street • 402-489-4366

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

Redeemer Lutheran Preschool

Montessori

5910 Holdrege St. 402-464-5410

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 $4 adult purchase.

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

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 Meals are only $1 on WEDNESDAYS per an adult entree purchase. 5pm to close for ages 12 & under. Choose from a Smiley Face Pancake, French Toast, Eggs, Bacon, Chicken Fingers, Grilled Cheese, Burgers & More. Great Things are Happening at Greenfield’s!

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 Winter 2013 Page 33

Lincoln Kids!

Capital Birthday Ideas Party Directory Place

Prices & Specials subject to change without notice.

Fun Features

Location(s) & phone

Ager Indoor Play Center

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

Art Planet

Add an artistic element to your birthday party! Come to the studio to celebrate your party “Art Planet” style.

Guests will take home their masterpiece as the party favor! Each party is as individual as the birthday boy/girl.

Or... Art Planet can visit your child’s party & decorate the guests with custom face (hands, arm, whatever) art!

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.

Capital City Gymnastics Champions Fun Center

Lincoln Childrenʼs Museum

www.capitalcitygymnastics.net

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.

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

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.

Lost In Fun!

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.

Lincoln Racquet Club

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!

LUX Center for the Arts

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!

Madsenʼs Bowling

Huge Indoor Playground! $60 for package of ten. 90 minute sessions, $3 each additional person, 30 people max. Seasonal park activities! Call for details.

Mahoney State Park My Gym

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

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

Owls, snakes, bugs and the great outdoors are eager to make your childs 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! $199-$249 for up to 40 friends!

University of Nebraska State Museum-Morrill Hall

One-of-a-Kind Party Room! Every child deserves a birthday that will go down in History...Natural History!

Urban Legends

Become an Urban Legend by painting your own masterpiece at our family friendly studio!

Choose painting subject/date/time and use our 3-tierpunch fountain for free! Minimum 5 or more participants. Check out more classes at: urbanlegendsartclasses.com!

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

email: hello@artplanetlincoln.com Web: www.artplanetlincoln.com Tamara 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 Larson Lifestye Center

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

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

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

402-944-2523, Ext. 7122 daily park entry permit or annual state park sticker required for entrance to the park.

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

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 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

2632 N 48th St., 402-470-0331 urbanlegendsartclasses.com

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!

Changing the Vision of Health Care

By Ann Seacrest, RN, IBCLC, Executive Director, MilkWorks

M

any families in America benefit from a quality medical system. If they are employed and have private health insurance, they know they can access medical care whether

they are in a car accident, develop cancer or just have a sore throat.

Many other Americans, who cannot afford to purchase health insurance, find themselves without the ability to obtain medical care.

“The Princess Fairy�

by Kyran Garcia, age 4, Holmes Elementary PreSchool

President Obama signed the Affordable Care Act (ACA) into law on March 23, 2010. The goal of the ACA is to help all Americans obtain medical care, as well as preventive health care.

What’s the difference? Medical care provides care when someone is sick. Preventive care keeps people from getting sick. Rising health care costs and a desire to provide care for all Americans, not just those who can afford medical care, is behind the Affordable Care Act. If we can decrease the need for medical care, then maybe we can afford to provide care for everyone.

As of August 1, 2012, the ACA requires that private insurance plans cover Women’s Preventive Services without a co-pay, coinsurance or deductible. The idea is to make these services very available to women. Only services with strong scientific evidence of their health benefits are included.

Breastfeeding support and breast pumps are part of the services mandated under the ACA. When human babies are fed human milk, they experience lower rates of acute infections, type I and type II diabetes, eczema, asthma, childhood

leukemia and obesity. When moms get breastfeeding help, they are more likely to overcome barriers that keep them from breastfeeding, whether they are returning to work and need a good breast pump or have a baby who is not feeding well.

Unfortunately, the ACA does not dictate exactly how an insurance plan must cover these services. As a result, mothers may face confusion when they contact their insurance plan.

Each plan is interpreting the ACA differently, which may result in a number of restrictions or limited choices when seeking a lactation consultant or a certain breast pump.

For more information on the ACA and talking to your insurance plan provider, please visit www.milkworks.org and click on Affordable Care Act Insurance Information or call 402-423-6402. Understanding the services available to help you stay healthy is the health care vision of tomorrow.

coolest moms are wearing –Š‹• ˆƒŽŽǨ

Šƒ– ƒŽŽ –Š‡

‹Â?† –Š‡ …‘Â?’Ž‡–‡ Ž‹Â?‡ ‘ˆ Maya Wraps ƒÂ?† Boba Carriers ƒ– „ƒ„›™‘”Â?•Ǥ Č‹ ‹Â?‡ ÂƒÂŽÂ™ÂƒÂ›Â•ÇĄ ™‡ǯŽŽ •Š‘™ ›‘— Š‘™ –Š‡› ™‘”Â?Ç¨ČŒ The boutique at MilkWorks

WK DQG 2OG &KHQH\ ‡ ‡ PLONZRUNV RUJ ‡ RSHQ GDLO\ Winter 2013 Page 35

Lincoln Kids!

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

PRAIRIE HILL Learning Center A Montessori school for children 18 mos. - 8th grade.

1HEUDVND·V )LUVW :LQG 6RODU 3RZHUHG 6FKRRO A non-profit educational corporation. Since 1981.

Certified Montessori teachers.

402-438-6668 www.prairiehill.com

“Parachute Man”

by Conner Garcia, age 8, Holmes Elementary School

“Spot the Fish”

by Lyndi Weber, age 8, student at Art Planet

A Winter Workshop for ages 4–15.

December 26th–30th from 9:30am–3:30pm.

Performance is December 30th at 7pm. Cost is $225.

Classes are held at Christ Lutheran Church (North Ministry) – 4325 Sumner Street TA4KINFO@gmail.com • Director: Leah Arington

Call (608) 322- 4549

Visit

TA4K.com to register!

Page 36 • www.lincolnkidsinc.com

Lincoln Kids!

H Street Treasures

By Gretchen Garrison

O

ften when we live in a place for awhile, we can forget to notice beauty that is surrounding us. The places we pick to visit might be a distance away rather than recognizing the options that are almost in our backyard. Downtown Lincoln has four amazingly lovely buildings, all facing H Street, that are open for public viewing. And children are welcome.

are also available online for older children.

Open weekdays 8 am–5 pm, Saturdays 10 am–5 pm & on Sundays 1 pm–5 pm. Tours are available on the hour (except over the noon hour).

ture of what life would have been like then. Decorated in period furniture, the home reveals life in the 18th century when Lincoln was first being settled. Ask your children: what would you have enjoyed about living back then?

What would you miss from today?

Tours by appointment MondayFriday. Adults are typically $3, and children are free.

The Governor’s Mansion governorsresidence.ne.gov 402-471-3466

The State Capitol capitol.org 402-471-0448 To absorb all that this building has to offer would take many hours. These three shorter options are perfect for children’s tours.

1) Tower Tour: As the tallest building in Lincoln, you can view the whole city from many angles.

Weather and project permitting, the doors are open to the observation decks, allowing breathtaking views. See what buildings you recognize. Can you find your own house? Or at least your neighborhood?

2) Stroll around the promenade.

All 93 counties are engraved on the building’s side, along with sculptures displaying the history of democracy.

3) Mosaics: What scenes in the main hall can you pick out that are familiar?

Downloadable scavenger hunts

Have your children look for all of the state symbols and distinctions throughout the house. The First Lady (with one First Gentleman) doll collection will thrill the girls, and the boys will appreciate the dining room wall mural (featuring adventurers throughout). And maybe while you are there, the First Dog, Snickers, will even make an appearance.

Free tours on Thursdays from 1 pm to 4 pm.

The Kennard House nebraskahistory.org /sites/kennard 402-471-4764 This oldest Lincoln home (owned by the Nebraska’s first Secretary of State) provides a pic-

The Ferguson House environmentaltrust.org/ 402-471-5417 As the 2nd floor is occupied by the Nebraska Environmental Trust business offices and the first floor is often rented out for special

occasions, prearranging a full house tour is recommended.

Since the house was owner occupied for sixty years, the integrity of the original woodwork and built-ins has been maintained.

Beautiful still today, this house was built a century ago with innovation in mind. Twirl around the 3rd floor ballroom and imagine living across the street decades ago, being able to watch the capital being built.

Interested in seeing all of the structures? On Sunday, December 8th, all four of these beautiful buildings, resplendent in Christmas splendor, will host free public open houses at various times throughout the afternoon.

The Nebraska tree lighting will also be happening mid-afternoon at the state capitol. Please contact Roxanne Smith at the Lincoln capitol at 402-471-0448 for more details on all of the festivities.

To explore more places and people of Nebraska, make sure to visit Gretchen’s blog: www.odysseythroughnebraska.wo rdpress.com

“Ground Squirrel”

by Zach Hamilton, 7th grade, Scott Middle School.

“Sunset Flowers”

by Bailey Hamilton, age 8, Hill Elementary School.

“Arctic Wolf Days”

by Bailey Hamilton, age 8, Hill Elementary School.

Winter 2013 Page 37

Lincoln Kids!

Dinosaurs & Disasters at Morrill Hall

By Mandy Haase, Public Relations Coordinator, University of Nebraska State Museum

A

day of discovery and hands-on activities, the University of Nebraska State Museum and University of Nebraska-Lincoln Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences are excited to host the 10th annual “Dinosaurs and Disasters” family fun day February 1 from 9:30 am – 4:30 pm in Morrill Hall (south of 14th and Vine streets on the University of Nebraska-Lincoln City Campus).

The annual Dinosaurs and Disasters Day is one of Lincoln's most exciting science learning events for children and their families. UNL scientists, graduate and undergraduate students will provide activities and demonstrations to help better understand planet Earth by exploring how its elements

The 10th Annual Dinosaurs & Disasters at Morrill Hall is on February 1, 2014 translate into natural disasters and extreme weather events.

There will be something for all ages with opportunities to climb a volcano, dig for fossils and give a weather report like TV meteorologists. Visitors are encouraged to bring rocks or fossils to the museum for scientist to identify.

Mueller Planetarium will present Dinosaurs at Dusk fulldome show at 11 am, noon, 1 pm, 2 pm, and 3 pm. The show takes audiences back in time to explore the origins of flight. Audiences will meet the remarkable flying reptiles. called Pterosaurs, and wonder at amazing dinosaurs that had feathers.

Regular museum admission will be charged: Museum Friends Members: Free Children ages 5 – 18: $3.00 Children ages 0-4: Free Adult (19+): $6.00 Family: $13.00 (up to 2 adults with children or grandchildren) Parking is Free in front of the museum. For more information on this and other University of Nebraska State Museum events visit www.museum.unl.edu or call 402-472-2642.

Be sure and visit the Lincoln Kids calendar of events section for even more museum events.

Zhenjiangopterus

Morrill Hall 1:30–4:30 pm

Fun science for kids and families.

November 17, 2013 | Solar Energy Jinsong Huang

Explore cutting-edge solar cell technology that could someday cover clothing or backpacks to power electronic devices.

December 15, 2013 | Shh! Plant Gene Silencing

E. T. Mahoney State Park

Birthday Party Come Party in the

GIANT Indoor Playground!

Discover how scientists direct plant metabolism at the molecular level.

Bin Yu

January 19, 2014 | Insects Tiffany Heng-Moss

Discover why insects are so successful. Hold hissing cockroaches, walking sticks, giant millipedes and other arthropods.

Ice Skating (skate rental not included)

Learn firsthand from REAL scientists! New topics every month.

February 1, 2014 | 9:30 am–4:30 pm | Morrill Hall

Get Your Nebraska Game & Parks Bucks Here!

Open Mon., Thurs., Fri. 4-8pm Sat. 11am-8pm Sun. 11am-6pm Closed Tues. & Wed.

Call to reserve your Birthday Party today!

Exit 426

www.museum.unl.edu University of Nebraska State Museum of Natural History Morrill Hall | South of 14th & Vine | UNL City Campus The University of Nebraska-Lincoln is an equal opportunity educator and employer.

Page 38 • www.lincolnkidsinc.com.net

402-944-2523, Ext. 7122 or go to www.OutdoorNebraska.org 20 minutes from Lincoln on I-80, Exit 426.

Park Entry Permit Required.

Adjacent to Strategic Air & Space Museum and Wildlife Safari Park

Lincoln Kids!

A Few of My Favorite Things

By Miss Emily, Education Manager at Lincoln Children’s Museum

I

carelessly opened the box my mother sent me, ripping at the tape and tearing through the address label. Inside, nestled in some tissue paper, was a collection of ornaments circa 1979. There were two plastic angels, a little drummer boy made from corn husks and a salt dough person with my school picture cut out and used for a face. Immediately I smiled as the memories rushed back to me.

The now fragile keepsakes have been safely packed for more than 30 years. For all of those years, my mother had performed this very ritual. Each year during this season she would gingerly unpack the keepsakes and relive the traditions and memories. Now, she had passed them on, sharing a few of her favorites with me.

So many seasonal memories live in our hearts and consist of moments spent together over meals or activities. But there are the tangible memories as well that keep us connected to what we love like the gravy bowl shaped like a turkey that is used only at Thanksgiving; the snowflake pendant grandmother wears only in the winter; and the delicate trinkets we hang from trees and hearths that make their grand arrival each holiday season. It’s part of what makes this time of year especially magical.

Our children have an incredible

role in keeping these traditions alive. Every year as they create their own treasures to adorn our walls and refrigerators, they add to the family tradition. A few of those favorites will make it to a special place inside the keepsake box. The handprint turkeys and macaroni garlands hold as much importance to the spirit of the season as the first snow brings to winter.

Just as I remembered cutting my face from the school picture, our children hold onto the process of creating their handmade treasure and create their own memories.

Candy houses and paper chain gar-

lands—whether they make it into the special box of old memories to be opened by their adult selves— are still a few of our favorite things. On behalf of everyone at Lincoln Children’s Museum, I wish you and your family a wonderful, magical season. I hope to see you at one of our Candy House Funshop sessions throughout December, or at family favorite events, like the U-Stop Holiday Spectacular on Dec. 6 and Make Believe Midnight on Dec. 31. It is a season for cherishing and making memories!

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1420 P Street Street

Linc Lincoln, oln, NE 68508

Winter 2013 Page 39

GET AWAY FROM THE USUAL AT YMCA CAMP KITAKI UPCOMING CAMPOUT EVENTS NEW YEARS LIVE Dec. 29th-Jan. 1st • Ages 7-14 • $175 PROGRAM: Come ring in the New Year at Camp Kitaki! For 4 days and 3 nights, campers will enjoy activities such as a dance party, winter gaga, and creating their own country to compete in the Wacky Winter Olympics. This is the longest campout we do during the non-Summer months and is a great way to meet new friends and try out Camp’s programs. From the opening ceremonies to the closing party, this is a campout not to miss!

CABIN FEVER February 15-16 • Ages 7-14 • $57 PROGRAM: Kids have cabin fever? Camp Kitaki has the cure. Cabin Fever campers spend a night at camp with plenty of fun! Sledding and snow activities will be a focus if weather permits. Send your camper to camp while you enjoy a belated night out for Valentine’s Day!

MASTERPIECE TEENAGER Feb. 28th-March 2nd • Ages 11-15 • $115

PROGRAM: Masterpiece Teenager campers choose an art focus from eight different choices and delve into creating take-home pieces of art. Led by the talented camp staff and outside artists and teachers the event is a great way to explore creativity with no skill required! Learn more about photography, mosaics, music and more! Campers can show off their art to family and friends at the Art Show at the end of the weekend.

YMCA CAMP KITAKI

402-434-9222

www.ymcalincoln.org/kitaki

WHERE THE MAGIC NEVER ENDS...

SUMMER CAMP • YEAR AROUND CAMPOUTS • OUTDOOR EDUCATION • RETREATS • FAMILY CAMPS