Lincoln Kids! Spring Edition 2018 by Lincoln Kids Magazine

tin a r b ele C • a Are g You n i d r Fam roun ily Guide to Lincoln & the Sur

5 2 g

rs! a e y

SPRING 2018

“The Mixed Up Chameleon”

Created by Atley at Preschool Paint and Storytime, Paint Yourself Silly

FEBRUARY MARCH APRIL Lincoln Kids! Newspaper

Spring 2018

FREE! Please take one

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Birthday Bash! FR

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il y f e s tival f o r a g e s

12 0-

Activities! Treats! Prizes! Sunday, March 4th • 9am-Noon at

14th & Old Cheney

Door Prizes for the first 25 kids! Plus dozens of giveaways throughout the party! Activities & Giveaways Sponsored By:

Kindermusik!

with Harris Academy of the Arts

Storytime Activities with Read Aloud Lincoln & Lincoln City Libraries

Creative Corner!

with LUX Center for the Arts

Cookie Decorating! with Foodie Kids

Face Paint & Creative Fun! Cirque du Soleil Defy Gravity Foodie Kids Genesis Photography Harris Academy of the Arts

Theatre Games!

Fitness Fun!

Photography!

Fun & Games!

with My Gym

with Theatre Arts for Kids

with Genesis Photography

Celebrating 25 years 2 • 0 •1• 8

with KidsPark

Birthday Treats & Refreshments!

Indigo Bridge Books & Cafe

Lincoln Kids! Newspaper

KidsPark

LUX Center for the Arts

Lincoln Children’s Museum

Makit Takit

Lincoln Irish Dancers

My Gym

Nebraska State Museum– Morrill Hall Paint Yourself Silly Read Aloud Lincoln Swimtastic Swim School

Learn more at LincolnKidInc.com Child watch is not provided during the party, please enjoy the event with your children. Regular Sunday KidsPark child care follows at 1pm.

- From the LK! Family -

LK!

Contents Articles & Columns From the LK! Family.............................................................4 LK! Birthday Art Contest......................................................5 About the Cover Art..............................................................5 Reader Spotlight: Ben Waller...............................................6 The LK! Big Birthday Bash!.................................................7 Defy Gravity...............................................................................8 Swimtastic Swim School.......................................................9 Lincoln Parks & Rec Pre-School Play Club..................10

Bennett, Kennett, & Karla, July 2017. Photo Credit: Genesis Photography. www.genesisphotog.com

25 Years of Lincoln Kids!

ven though recent Nebraska winters seem to be on the milder side of brrrr, we are still so totally excited that warmer weather is just around the corner! In this edition, you’re sure to find fun activities, camps, and events for the kiddos throughout spring & summer, including one of our very own: LK’s

25th BIG BIRTHDAY BASH at KidsPark! Check it out on pages 3 & 7. We hope you can come to this awesome FREE event with tons of activities & giveaways. We’ll see ya this spring!

Kenny

Camp Sonshine......................................................................13 Lincoln Children’s Zoo..........................................................15 Bright Lights Summer Learning Adventures.................16 ABC Cornhusker Chapter....................................................17 Close to Home with Gretchen Garrison..........................18 Morrill Hall...............................................................................19 LUX Center for the Arts......................................................20 Makit Takit: Lincoln’s Craft Studio.....................................22 Nebraska Writing Project...................................................23 Read Aloud Lincoln.............................................................24

Bennett

February is National Children's Dental Health Month!

Lincoln City Libraries...........................................................25 Nebraska Dyslexia Association........................................28 Allison’s Book Bag...............................................................29 Nebraska Game & Parks by Lindsay Rogers...............31 Word from the BirdNerd.....................................................32 Pioneers Park Nature Center............................................33 Capital Humane Society.....................................................34 Pet Talk with Allison Hunter Frederick............................35 Partnership for a Healthy Lincoln....................................37 Lutheran Schools of Lincoln.............................................38 Lincoln Irish Dancers..........................................................39 The ArtReach Project..........................................................50

Dental Care Designed

Directories Spring & Summer Camps & Programs.....................40-41 Birthday Fun & Party Places.............................................42

for Your Child

Children’s Lessons & Activities........................................43 Little One’s Activities...........................................................44

Call us today for an appointment

Child Care & Education Centers...............................44-45 Support Groups....................................................................49

402-423-3322

Calendar of Events.............................................46-48 Children's Art Gallery.........................................49-51

3901 Pine Lake Road, Suite 250 Website: www.pediatricdentistrypc.net

...follow us on Facebook! Page 4 • LincolnKidsInc.com

Brent D. Johnson, DDS, MS

ublisher, Editor in Chief, & Sales – Karla Goerl P Website – Joshua Thorne Distribution - Bennett Martin Printer – Page 1 Printers Graphics/Photos – Local Youth, Ron Wheeler’s Fat Free Clipart, Pixabay, Storyblocks, Unsplash, Dreamstime, Shutterstock, Creative Market, and Lincoln Kids! Newspaper’s In-House Design

Lincoln Kids! Newspaper is operated by Bennett & Karla, Inc. We are a quarterly family newspaper published in February, May, August & November. Copyright ©2018 by Bennett & Karla, 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 feedback and submissions of feature articles & 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. Current and past issues may be viewed online at www.LincolnKidsInc.com.

LK!

About the Cover Art

Preschool Paint & Story Time at Paint Yourself Silly This Spring’s cover art was created during Preschool Paint & Story Time at Paint Yourself Silly. The story was “The Mixed Up Chameleon” by Eric Carle, and, as you can see, there were many wonderful chameleons created that day.

Preschool Paint & Story Time

Thursdays at 10:30 am Paint Yourself Silly • Pioneer Woods (70th & Pioneers) Themed Children’s Story + Fun Art Project No appointment necessary–just come on in!

Is your name Atley? Is this your chameleon? If so, please ask your adult to email us at Lincoln Kids! We want to recognize you and give you your prize! karla@lincolnkidsinc.com

Want your art in the next issue?

Send us your artwork & poetry and it could appear here!

karla@lincolnkidsinc.com Look for your art throughout LK & in the Gallery on pages 49-51!

Up Next! Summer '18 May • June • July

Don’t Miss Out! Deadline: April 10 Advertising • Articles • Artwork • Calendar Inquiries & Submissions: Karla@LincolnKidsInc.com www.LincolnKidsInc.com Like us on Facebook!

(402) 798-0224 Lincoln Kids! Newspaper PO BOX 67203 Lincoln, Nebraska 68506

Spring 2018 • Page 5

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co n i L

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SPOTLIGHT Ben with Mrs. Meyer in her classroom.

Each week,Ben Waller visits Mrs. Meyer’s first grade class at Messiah Lutheran School. He loves talking with the children, and he always brings special questions for the kids to answer. Mrs. Meyer tells him what the kids are learning in school, and the children sing him a song. Ben especially looks forward to receiving his copy of Lincoln Kids! Ben loves schedules & calendars, and he always knows when it’s time for the next edition. He made a special trip to Messiah School to pick up the winter issue so he could read it right away.

�

ank You, Ben!

�

Messages like this warm our hearts.

x Share your LK! story.

karla@lincolnkidsinc.com Thank you for reading Lincoln Kids!

— Enroll now — Spring & Summer Camps for ages 4½+!

foodiekidslincoln.com Foo Innovative recipes, diverse ingredients, and professional culinary instructors to challenge & entertain kids ages 2-teens

hip d•F un • Friends

Summer Camps start June 4th

and run through August 10th!

Ages 4.5-8 • $225 4 Half Days • 9am-12pm Ages 9-teen • $275 5 Half Days • 1-4pm TV-style Championships • French Bakery American Girl Cafe® • Farm-to-Table Classic Italian Cucina • Kitchen Science Dessert Crazy & more fun themes!

Find out more online!

foodiekidslincoln.com

(402) 261-4813

6800 S. 32nd St., Ste. B

getcooking@foodiekidslincoln.com Page 6 • LincolnKidsInc.com

LK!

The LK! Big Birthday Bash

A FREE Family Festival to Celebrate our 25th Birthday! and giggles! My Gym is giving away a gift certificate for their fun classes! Check out My Gym on page 6 and at MyGym.com/Lincoln.

By Karla Goerl, Publisher, Lincoln Kids! Newpaper.

incoln Kids! Newspaper is celebrating 25 years this Spring. We are proud to be your free family guide to raising children in our awesome, kid-friendly city.

Theatre Arts for Kids Theatre Fun & Games!

Mark your calendars! We are hosting a Big Birthday Bash in honor of our quarter-century turn, and YOU’RE INVITED! It’s free, fun, and full of prizes!

Calling all Drama Kings & Queens! Theatre Arts for Kids will make you the entertainer! Stop by the KidsPark stage for theatre playtime with TAFK, where you can unleash your best theatrics and drama fun! Learn about their current and upcoming programs at TAFK.org and on page 21.

LK! Big Birthday Bash

Delicious Treats!

Come Party with Us!

Did somebody say cake?! There’ll be treats & refreshments for you to enjoy throughout the event, plus there’s plenty of great, kid-friendly spots for lunch in area, including right next door!

Sunday, March 4th, 2018 Open House | 9am - Noon KidsPark, 14th & Old Cheney Activities! • Treats! • Prizes! Free for families with children ages 0-12+!

Tons of GIVEAWAYS!

Fun Activities! Everywhere you turn, there’s going to be fun, like face paint, tasty treats, and some really cool, locally-sponsored activities! Lincoln Kids! is free for all to read thanks to our advertisers, many of whom host birthday parties for children. So when it came to planning fun things to do at our fiesta, I knew exactly where to turn—Lincoln Kids! The following kid-friendly businesses will be on site offering fun activity stations and prizes.

KidsPark Room to Run & Have Fun! KidsPark is where the party’s at! KidsPark is a fun, no-strings-attached drop & go child care center. From the famed Mountain of Energy to fun toys & games, KidsPark is the place to be for children ages 1.5-11 years. Older and younger siblings & friends are welcome to attend the Birthday Bash, too! Kids Park is giving away a $100 gift card at the celebration! See the KidsPark ad to the left and learn more at KidsPark.com/Lincoln.

Foodie Kids Cookie Decorating! Foodie Kids will have a Cookie Decorating station—one of the favorite activities from their Drop-In Makery. Design and enjoy your own cookie creation with yummy, colorful

Door Prizes! frosting—delicious! Foodie Kids will be giving away a free Summer Camp enrollment to a lucky Lincoln Kid! Discover all that Foodie Kids has to offer on the adjacent page and at FoodieKidsLincoln.com.

Genesis Photography Pictures of the Fun! Bonnie with Genesis Photography will be on location snapping real-time pics of the Birthday Bash. Follow Genesis Photography on Facebook to see photos of the event. Message Genesis if you’d like digital access to pictures of your family having fun at the party! Genesis Photography is giving away a free photo session! See Bonnie’s amazing portfolio at GenesisPhotog.com.

Harris Academy of the Arts Kindermusik! Harris Academy of the Arts will host a Kindermusik dance party at the festival. Kids of all ages will sing, sway, and dance with friends and family! HAA will be giving away a month of free Kindermusik classes! Find out more about how Harris Academy can help your child on their musical journey at HarrisAcademyoftheArts.com and in the Lincoln Kids! directories.

Lincoln City Libraries & Read Aloud Lincoln Storytime Activities! Lincoln City Libraries and Read Aloud Lincoln are partnering up to provide engaging storytime activities for party-goers. Adventures are unlimited when you love to read! Read Aloud Lincoln is giving away a “Let’s Read Together” Book Basket! Learn more about our city’s libraries and the importance of reading aloud on pages 24 & 25, and at LincolnLibraries.org and ReadAloudLincoln.org.

LUX Center for the Arts Creative Corner! LUX Center for the Arts puts the ART in PARTY! Stop by their creative station to unleash your imagination and create a custom work of art, or color with friends on the big birthday banner! LUX is giving away LUX Bux for four weeks of free art lessons! Find out about LUX and their kid’s programs at LUXCenter.org and on page 20.

My Gym Fitness Fun for Everyone! My Gym Lincoln will entertain with fitness activities for kids & parents! Sessions with My Gym are full of excitement, interaction, friendship,

The first 25 kids who come will win door prize goodie bags filled with awesome gifts, including local gift certificates and an extra chance to win BIG at the raffle!

FREE Raffle! At the LK! Big Birthday Bash, WE are giving YOU the presents! Each Lincoln Kid will be entered into a free raffle with dozens of prizes! Giveaways include Strider Bikes, Drones, Lincoln Children’s Museum and Morrill Hall memberships, Party Packages from Defy Gravity and Swimtastic, gift certificates to local kid-friendly places, premium tickets to see Cirque du Soleil this May, and dozens of other goodies...including a 6-foot stuffed animal puppy! See prize & activity sponsors on page 3 and follow LK on facebook for exclusive updates! I’d like to give a HUGE thank you to our readers and advertisers for making Lincoln Kids! THE go-to guide for all things family in and around the Capital City. Three cheers for 25 years! Hip Hip Hooray! Hip Hip Hooray! Hip Hip Hooray! Let’s party! Please note, KidsPark will not provide child care during the event. Plan to enjoy the party with your children. Regular KidsPark Sunday hours follow at 1pm.

Spring 2018 • Page 7

LK!

Happy Third Birthday Defy Gravity! Submitted by Defy Gravity

incoln’s first locally owned and operated interactive family fun and trampoline park, Defy Gravity, opened its doors three years ago this February. Since that time, Defy Gravity has become a favorite destination for fun in the Lincoln community, offering exciting events and fun activities for kids and adults, from birthday party packages to fam-

Page 8 • LincolnKidsInc.com

ily nights, and everything in-between, including their arcade, Ultimate W a r r i o r Course, and Trampoline Ninja. “Nebraskans really do support each other, and as we commemorate our third birthday, we are thrilled to have so many of our community help us celebrate,” shared Brenton Roby, Assistant General Manager. Defy Gravity opened to the public bringing 30,000 square feet of fun space to Lincoln and was welcomed with open arms by local families and businesses. They offer a fun environment where the whole family can participate in activities that encour-

age interaction in a way that inspires all to “jump in!” Most recently, Defy Gravity began offering their Ultimate Time Package. For $18.99 participants enjoy unlimited jumping and attractions. (See the back page of Lincoln Kids! for details.) To celebrate three years in Lincoln, Defy Gravity will be offering exclusive discounts, party packages, and other exciting items—they are also throwing DG’s 3rd Birthday Party during the week of March 12-16. The party’s activities promise hours of fun to all who come! Defy Gravity will be sharing and updating the features and details via Facebook in the coming weeks; be sure to like and follow them to keep up with all the happenings! As the first family fun park to offer attractions for all skill levels, Defy Gravity has become THE place to play & party in Lincoln. They offer a variety of exciting birthday party and corporate party packages for groups big and small. Memories are made to last a lifetime at DG. “We have families that participate and tell us over and over again how much it means to have an environment that is truly family friendly. “Getting kids and even adults off their electronic devices was a goal when we opened. Finding ways to get kids up and moving and promoting physical activity is a major part of our focus. We have worked diligently to provide new and exciting attractions over the past three years to keep our offerings fresh and appealing to all ages. Defy Gravity has gone so far as to invent new technol-

ogies in order to bring you features like Trampoline Ninja and Prismatic Explosion,” added Roby. Being dedicated to Nebraska is another part of Defy Gravity’s culture; partnering with local and state-based organizations is a strong focus for their team. They’ve joined forces with Teammates Mentoring Program, the Make-A-Wish Foundation, and the Team Jack Foundation to create opportunities for youth in the area and in those programs. Defy Gravity also works with Church youth groups, local schools and academies, University of Nebraska–Lincoln organizations, and many other programs, providing hours of fun and bonding moments for their members. “We work diligently to engage our local partners as part of our commitment to Lincoln and to Nebraska. It just makes sense to us as a team to be a part of the fabric of our community,” said Roby.

Defy Gravity is located at 345 Sporting Village Dr., Ste. 1, Lincoln, Nebraska. www.DefyGravityLincoln.com. (402) 8176900. Facebook.com/DefyGravityLincoln.

LK!

Jumping Into the Deep End of Life

Swim Lessons Support Childhood Development Submitted by Swimtastic Swim School

ommy blogs, facebook groups, parenting magazines, Pinterest boards, books, seminars, workshops—everywhere you turn, resources for being the best parent you can possibly be are vying for your attention. They offer help and encouragement to create a super kid who will handle every challenge with grace and ease. But, asks that little voice in your head, what if you take the wrong advice? What if you don’t follow enough advice? What if you don’t participate in enough activities or the right activities? Or, what if you just relaxed, tuned out that paranoid voice and went with your gut instinct about what was best for your child instead? Maybe things would proceed swimmingly. All sly puns aside, there is a way to easily support each of your child’s emotional developmental stages and—suprise!—it’s swim lessons! Swim lessons, just like child restraint seats, bike helmets and sunblock, are vital to a child’s physical safety. What isn’t as apparent is how they also help children “float” through the transitional stages that mark childhood development. I can do it! Children need embedded praise to develop confidence and healthy self-esteem naturally. While everybody-gets-a-trophy-for-participating events are nice, an emotionally healthy child (and adult) has developed the ability to acknowledge stepping stone accomplishments. Swim lessons give kids precisely that. Your child’s laser-like focus is unearthed. The relaxing buoyancy of the water and the security of a

Inflatables

Jumping Pillow

nearby instructor help children focus on the lesson of the moment, which accelerates learning and mastery. This learned skill of tuning out other distractions to focus on instruction carries over to everyday life. After a child begins swim lessons, many parents report easier bedtimes (not just on lesson days) and improved homework focus. You don’t have to love 100% of swimming to enjoy some of it. Because initial mastery of swim strokes is an individual process, children are competing only with themselves. But accomplishments are real, and improvement is ongoing and quantifiable. And if there’s a stroke your child doesn’t enjoy, that doesn’t mean swimming should be crossed off the list forever. Space and time have real meaning. Children who participate in swim lessons understand the connection between space and time, an important skill in math and science. The length of the pool as they relate to crossing it within a certain amount of time are elements of a story problem. If your child wants to improve his or her ability to shave off seconds, you can guarantee they will “do their homework” to solve the problem. Fit for life. Swimming uses up some of that boundless energy most children have, readily offering the recommended one-hour-a-day of physical activity. It’s also the dream exercise that provides a lifetime of fitness. Swimming tones muscles and increases heart rate for cardio benefits, all while being easy on the joints. It’s perfect for any age and varying ability levels. Foam Pit

Fun Gym

Lazer Maze

Little athletes in the making. Your child doesn’t have to join a swim team to benefit from swimming, but the option is there for those who desire to compete. There are no benchwarmers on swim teams, so everyone participates. Even though Swimtastic Swim School offers lessons for youth each athlete comages 6 months and up! petes individually, swimming is a team sport that develly activity that reduces everybody’s ops healthy social skills and teaches stress and fosters trust, quality time, sportsmanship. and the joy of swimming! Deeper Meaning. If your child No parenting manual tells you begins swim lessons as a young child, everything you need to know about you may be in the pool with him or her raising children. Every day is an during class. Providing an early introadventure for both the parents and duction to water naturally enhances the kids. Moving the adventure into the parent-child bond and accelerates the pool—where the water is fine and mastery (“Mom or dad is here with the swim lessons offer a variety of me, so I’m safe.”). Swimming is a fantastic benefits—can make it more relaxing, affordable, and fun famienjoyable for everyone.

New Feature!

BALLOCITY! We have FUNTASTIC birthday parties! Book online today!

LostInFun.com (402) 261-0440 15th & Yankee Hill

Bring in this coupon for

25% OFF any one pass! Not valid for parties or with other offers.

Exp. 4/30/18

Spring 2018 • Page 9

LK!

FUN, Fitness and Music

Pine Lake Golf & Tennis

Junior Golf — — Ages

ACADEMY

3-18 A fun golf e xpe rie nc

ew Junior Membership here k Only $125 for all of 2018

Includes one lesson & equipment check

fr o • Unlimited play on our 9 Hole Course m and supervised Practice Range Campus • Complimentary clubs & bags from Sticks for Kids • Junior Programming year-round • Weekday & weekend group instruction available • Our coaches emphasize fun and principled skill development

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Photos & Article submitted by Lincoln Parks & Recreation

incoln Parks and Recreation’s new Play Club has what every child wants—the chance to sing and dance, throw and catch a ball, and share their successes with family members. Pre-School Play Club is designed to provide an environment where all children, regardless of their ability, will be involved in playbased learning activities with their families. Activities are designed to center on each child’s individual strengths and address the child’s needs. The club will combine elements of music with Special Olympics Young Athletes, a sport and play curriculum for children with and without intellectual disabilities. Young Athletes introduces basic sports skills, like running, kicking, and throwing. Musical elements support language, social and emotional skills, and have tremendous power to enhance a child’s overall development.

c e ll

ea rn To C

A program of action, discipline, respect, etiquette, sportsmanship, & athleticism.

t he best.

New Program at Calvert Rec Center

y Acti Pla o ve Sta T rt • Learn

•L

Learn more & Register! Contact Dave Malone, PGA U.S. Kids Certiﬁed Coach

dmalonepga1@gmail.com • 402-560-3371 • 6601 S. 84th St.

PINELAKEJUNIORGOLFACADEMY.COM Page 10 • LincolnKidsInc.com

Discover more Lincoln Parks & Recreation programs for kids on page 33 and at parks.lincoln.ne.gov!

Pre-School Play Club is free and offers families the chance to share the joy of play through music and sports. The Club meets Tuesday evenings from 6:00-7:00 pm at Calvert Recreation Center (4500 Stockwell). For more information or to register, email preschoolplayclub@lincoln. ne.gov or call 402-441-7948.

LK!

COMPETITIVE EDGE SPORTS WRESTLING | MARTIAL ARTS | GYMNASTICS Lincoln’s premier athletic training facility

hat a wonderful camp! Our 6 year-old had only wrestled for 3 months through the school club. He seemed to really enjoy wrestling. We felt he could benefit from an environment that provides smaller group sizes and more one-on-one coaching. I’m so glad we chose to sign him up for camp! To my surprise, I could see and follow their day on Facebook. They posted videos and pictures of what they were doing every day; emails were also sent. The communication was great! Each day at pick up, our son was a chatter box about his day—they worked hard and played hard! On the last day, we received a progress report and also a hand-written note about him and how he did as a camper and an athlete. It was fantastic and really meant a lot to us! CES is a great environment with great coaches. You can tell they really enjoy getting to know the kids. Thank you to all at CES! —Brea, parent of a CES Youth Wrestling Camp 2017 attendee

CES also offers year-round classes for ages 3+ in wrestling, gymnastics, & martial arts. Learn more online!

Artwork by Owais Rageh, age 5, sent in from home

What’s your edge?

LINCOLNEDGE.COM

Page 12 • LincolnKidsInc.com

LK!

Camp Sonshine & The Power of Camp Submitted by Camp Sonshine

amp isn’t just fun and games—it has the power to transform lives. Camps all over the world provide campers the opportunity for growth and development by creating spaces to build relationships, adventure and explore nature, and see their own lives changed. Camp Sonshine strives to be a place that does just that. “In today’s world, it’s sometimes tough for a kid to be a kid, and it is important for us to provide them with a safe and accepting place to do that,” said Jeff Keiser, Camp Sonshine Director.

Relationships: Friends & Adult Mentors Erika Christakis, author of The Importance of Being Little and former Yale lecturer, explains how security in relationships is the most important thing that children need. “If the most important element to fostering a child’s growth and development is building secure relationships, then there is a real need

for places to support play, learning, and channels for relationships to be nurtured,” said Christakis. Camp Sonshine’s approach to summer camps is all about the group experience. Each camper is placed in a group that is lead by a counselor. Each counselor is trained to do more than just supervise; they get involved in the activities and help campers build relationships with one other. “We’ve been attending Camp Sonshine several years,” said Beth Pankoke, a camp parent. “We continue to send [our daughter] because of the bonds she forms with her counselors and the age-appropriate activities. These counselors have become like older sisters to her and such great role models.”

New Environment & Experiences According to Michael Brandwein, noted speaker and professional camp consultant, camps provide a less-pressured atmosphere for children to readily learn positive things

Parish said. “Camp Sonshine is one of the best investments we have ever made for our family and our kids.”

Transformed Lives

to say and do when they make mistakes or face challenges. “Our family loves Camp Sonshine because, no matter their age, they provide our kids an opportunity for growth,” said Karen Parish, whose two campers are now counselors at Camp Sonshine. According to her, Camp provided the opportunity for her kids to be outside and active, gain responsibility, learn to work alongside their peers, and then ultimately lead their own group of campers. “All this through fun activities and programming, while having fun and learning how much God loves them,”

According to The Power of Camp, an initiative of Christian Camp and Conference Association, young people at camp have the mental capacity and ability to break from the craziness of their routine to consider some of the most important issues of life. “Thinking of summer, the week at camp with friends and counselors is a highlight, not just for the summer, but a highlight that brings us joy the entire year!” said Nina, a camp parent. “The games, songs, and incredible silliness—these memories make us smile. The conversations, the counselors, the working through real-life questions—these memories impact and shape individuals for life.” Camp Sonshine provides day camps, overnight camps, and leadership training programs in the summer and throughout the year. For more information, go to www.campsonshinememories.org or call 402.423.8746.

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LK!

A Typical Day at Zoo Camp! By Alyssa Hodes, Lincoln Children’s Zoo

Up-close animal interaction is just one of the cool things kids experience at Zoo camp!

ummer at the Zoo is one of my favorite times of the year! I get to watch thousands of children get an up-close look at our amazing animals, go behind-thescenes at the Zoo, and meet our talented zookeepers. Here is a sneakpeak of a typical day at Zoo camp. Your day begins with camp check-in where you are greeted by your camp instructor who will be with you for the week. Camp instructors are Zoo guide experts. They work with zookeepers to plan your animal visits, coordinate activities, and organize the educational components of your camp. Once you are checked in, you will be lead to your camp’s dedicated classroom where activities and lessons take place. After getting settled in, you and your fellow campers will head out to the Zoo! Each camp receives exclusive time to roam the Zoo before opening. During this time, campers watch zookeepers get the Zoo ready for the day, take part in scavenger hunts, and have fun in all the play areas! Once the Zoo opens, you’ll start your behind-the-scenes encounters with the zookeepers and animals. You will meet animals like the African serval, step inside the home of Humboldt penguins, feed the adorable red pandas, or take a stroll with the flamingos! Back in the classroom, your camp instructor will teach lessons specific to the camp theme. You’ll conduct science experiments, make enrichment toys for animals, and take

part in other fun and educational activities. Full-day campers will take a lunch break with their instructor at the Zoo’s private picnic area. This is a great time to socialize and make new friends, or ask your instructor questions about the Zoo and animals. Once camp ends for the day, you’ll make your way back to the drop-off area to meet up with your parents or caretakers and tell them all about your day! I love hearing the happy chatter of the day’s events—from waking up the train in the morning and taking the first ride around the Zoo, to touring the animal hospital, getting an exclusive look inside the animal diet kitchen, feeding a penguin, riding a horse and more! This is why I love summer camps at Lincoln Children’s Zoo! Our campers get to enjoy fantastic and immersive Zoo experiences that they’ll remember for the rest of their lives. To me, there is no better way to spend the summer!

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Bright Lights Summer Learning Adventures By Lindsey Walsh, Program and Marketing Specialist, Bright Lights: Summer Learning Adventures

chool personnel do an amazing job of teaching, guiding, and interacting with students during the school year. They pour hundreds of hours of time into their students to give the best academic edge possible.

But what happens during the summer? According to a report from the National Summer Learning Association by Duke University Professor Harris Cooper, “We found that kids do forget over the summer. Across the board, all kids lose some… skills.” His suggested solution? “Summer affords more freedom to digress from a prescribed curriculum, so you can study at a more leisurely, individualized pace.” Bright Lights, a local summer learning program over 30 years strong, is an ideal way for elementary and middle school students to maximize the fun of summer vacation and make a “summer stride” rather than a summer slide. Students pick a subject that appeals to them and spend a week delving into the topic through a variety of teacher-led activities. As one parent said, “My six-year-old thought she was spending a week enjoying Dr. Seuss, but it was so much more than that! She learned about science, math and other subjects in a fun environment. I don’t think she even realized she was learning.”

2018 Full-Day Camps Our always popular Lego® EV3 Robotics Camp will return June 11-15. Experienced robotics teachers will engage the students in reallife problem solving as they learn to build and program their robots. The only challenge you’ll have is getting your student to leave the classroom each day! Hogwarts Camp will return June 25-29 filled with magical creatures, advanced potions, wand and quill skills, a trip to Diagon Alley and so much more. It’s an extraordinary experience that no one will want to miss! Could Superman really fly? How does Wonder Woman’s invisible jet work? Could Captain America actually survive being frozen? Gather evidence to answer these questions and more in our Science of Superheroes Camp, July 9-13. Plus explore science careers that are leading the way from turning fiction into fact. Bright Lights is once again collaborating with the UNL Department of Engineering to offer Engineering Camp July 9-13 on the UNL campus. During this inspiring camp, students who have completed grades 6th8th will have hands-on experience exploring civil, electrical, mechanical, computer and biological engineering under the guidance of the Engineering College faculty. It’s an amazing learning experience! A detailed schedule of all of Bright Lights full-day camps and half-day classes will be available at BrightLights. org beginning midFebruary, with registration starting March 24.

Lego® EV3 Robotics Camp Bright Lights Summer Learning Adventures

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LK!

Build Your Future with ABC Submitted by Associated Builders and Contractors, Cornhusker Chapter

ssociated Builders and Contractors (ABC) is a trade association supporting the construction industry. The Cornhusker Chapter is one of 70 chapters across the nation that encourages and promotes education in the trades. This summer, ABC is offering two handson summer camps with member professionals who share their passion for the industry in a fun and engaging learning environment. Participants can literally Build their Future with ABC by discovering the fun they can have and a career they are passionate about in the building trades.

Junior Builders Tour June 18-22 ABC’s middle school camp is a one-week program that introduces students to opportunities and careers in construction. We will get down and dirty with electricity, plumbing, HVAC, architecture, design, drywall, tile, concrete, masonry, and welding.

ABC Build Your Future: Construction 101 June 4-15 ABC’s high school camp is a two-week program designed to dive deeper into the industry. Students will pour concrete, frame, plumb and electrify a room, hang and finish drywall, and even weld. One day is dedicated to heavy equipment and electrical lineman work. Of course, as with everything ABC does, safety comes first. Each group will learn safety in the trades. Registration fees include all materials and lunch for participants. Scholarships are also available; applications can be attained upon inquiry. For information and registration, call 402-477-4451 or email education@abcnebraska.org. Interested in a career in construction or industry? Enhance your application! Participants 16 years and up can come back to get their OSHA 10 hour certification at the construction camp discount!

Cornhusker Chapter

Full-day Summer Camps Real-life STEM for the future Build Your Future: Construction 101 | Grades 9-12 | $250

Lincoln: Jun 4-15 | Omaha Jun 11-22

Junior Builders Tour | Grades 6-8 | $100

Lincoln: Jun 18-22 | Omaha Jun 25-29 Limited Availablity! Register today education@abcnebraska.org

402-477-4451

ABCNEBRASKA.ORG Spring 2018 • Page 17

LK!

Enjoying Lincoln’s Night Sky

Home

with Gretchen Garrison: Mom. Blogger. Author. Nebraska Enthusiast. www.OdysseyThroughNebraska.com

Page 18 • LincolnKidsInc.com

his time of year is the perfect time for stargazing. Although the weather can be a bit chilly, Nebraska has enough relatively warm days sprinkled throughout late winter and early spring that make being outside at night more bearable. Since the sun is still going down fairly early in the evenings, you do not have to stay up quite as late to enjoy a star show. Sometimes the city lights can block the view of the constellations. That is why I recommend a visit to Hyde Observatory. Hyde Observatory is located on the south edge of Holmes Lake Park. By looking through each of the three telescopes, you will have an excellent view of the night skies from many angles. The Observatory is open every Saturday night with free admission. During the winter, they are open from 7-10 pm. During warmer months, from March to August, you can visit from sundown until 11 pm. In September, they open an hour later due to the later sunset. You can also arrange to bring groups to the center at other times if you call in advance. Besides providing viewings of the night sky, the observatory has many other resources for sky lovers. On location, you can find information about interactive and educational programs to learn more about science and astronomy. On the Hyde website, www.hydeobservatory.info, you can find links to over twenty-five websites that contain excellent background information about space and astronomy. You can learn everything from what constellations are currently visible to upcoming comets. There are reference materials for all ages and levels of learning. While planetariums do not usually have telescopes on hand, Mueller Planetarium is another excellent location for gaining knowledge about the night sky. Mueller Planetarium, Nebraska’s first planetarium, is located inside Morrill Hall on the UNL city campus. To get in, there is a small ticket charge in addition to museum

Deep Galactical Stars by Kendall Bolte, age 12, Acrylic, Art Academy Lincoln

admission, but the eye-opening experiences, knowledge, and memories are definitely worth it. Planetarium shows primarily run on Saturdays at specific times. The themes vary and involve astronomy or other science topics. Plan to spend 20-35 minutes per show. Kids must be 4 to attend, and due to safety, you cannot re-enter if you need to leave. Check out www. spacelaser.com for more information and for additional science resources. To learn more about astronomy, check out some of my favorite books: Stargazers and The Moon Book, both by Gail Gibbons Night Sky (National Geographic Kids Reader) by Stephanie Warren Drimmer Sun, Moon and Stars (Usborne Beginner Book) by Stephanie Turnbull Constellations for Every Kid: Easy Activities that Make Learning Science Fun by Janice Van Cleave Gretchen Garrison is a homeschool mom and former teacher. She tells about local places & people on her blog, Odyssey Through N e b r a s k a . Gretchen’s first book, Detour N e b r a s k a : Historical Destinations and Natural Wonders, is now available online and at these local bookstores: Francie & Finch Bookshop and Indigo Bridge Books. Both locations offer a variety of books for children and plan events for kids & families.

LK!

Experience ‘Nano’ at Morrill Hall

Imagine and Discover a World You Can’t See! By Mandy Haase-Thomas, Chief Communications Officer, University of Nebraska State Museum-Morrill Hall

ust how small is nano? What is a carbon nanotube? These questions are answered in the new temporary exhibit, Nano, on display at Morrill Hall. Nano is an interactive exhibition

that engages the whole family in nanoscale science, engineering, and technology. Join us to imagine and discover the nanoscale world—a world so tiny it is too small to see! The 400-square foot exhibition includes hands-on interactive exhibits that invite exploration of nano phenomena plus real-world applications and implications. At the ‘Small, Smaller, Nano’ interactive display, visitors play with magnets to explore how materials behave differently at different sizes. At the ‘Build a Giant Carbon Nanotube’ station, you can use foam construction pieces to make an enlarged model of a tiny carbon nanotube. There are plenty of examples of nano in nature, technology, and your own home. The exhibit lets you listen, look, and touch to discover nano all around you. The Nano exhibition also includes a seating area with comfortable furniture and additional reading material about this fascinating topic.

Small, Smaller, Nano Interactive Display

To celebrate the opening of this temporary exhibit in Morrill Hall, the Museum is hosting these events: • FREE! Thursday Night Admission on February 8, 15 & 22 from 4:308:00pm • Sunday with a Scientist: “Big Science, Small Scale” on February

18 from 12:30-4:30pm. Regular Museum Admission. Museum Members attend for Free. Nano is produced by the Nanoscale Informal Science Education Network with funding from the National Science Foundation (NSF).

Spring 2018 • Page 19

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Making Time Together By Lindsey Clausen, Dir. of Edu., LUX Center for the Arts

T • Focus on social & emotional development, giving your child a great start • Classrooms led by educated and experienced teachers • Kindergarten-readiness curriculum • Behavioral specialist on staff • Enrolling children 6 weeks to 12 years • NEW Nature Explore Outdoor Classroom • Extended hours: 6:30 am - 6:00 pm

402-434-5437 | cedarskids.org

Page 20 • LincolnKidsInc.com

here are many educational and entertaining applications for kids out there, but there is one thing kids can’t do on a screen: make tangible things. Although it can be messy, “making time” is an essential part of the developmental process. By creating real objects, young minds are learning in a multi-sensory fashion—it helps children develop physically, aids cognitive development, and provides a sense of individuality, creativity, and self-expression. Sometimes, old-fashioned pencils, paints, and paper are exactly what the doctor ordered. When children are making art with their hands they are exploring the world around them all while learning to plan, experiment, and problem solve. Art nurtures imagination, decision-making skills, and teaches

Photo provided by LUX Center for the Arts

cause-and-effect, too. Children make dozens of choices while creating, and then get to see and hold the product of their decisions. Unlike winning a video game, making tangible objects allows children to feel a sense of originality and self-expression. The possibilities in art are limitless. There is no right or wrong path, nor is there a right or wrong outcome. Art can be abstract or realistic, big or small, complicat-

ed or simple—just as the artist wants it to be. Here at the LUX, we provide classes that help develop artistic skill sets for different abilities and age groups. Saturday classes and week-long camps are offered for kids ages 5-8, 9-12, and 13+. We also have a new drop-in mommy-and-me clay class called Mud Club for children ages 2+ and their adult. Mud Club meets every Saturday from 9 to 9:45 a.m. now through the end of March. Kids and adults will quickly immerse themselves in handson art-making without having to commit to a multi-week class. Only $8/person or $6 when you buy a punch card! Find classes, camps, and workshops at LUXcenter.org or visit us in historic University Place at 2601 N. 48th Street near Nebraska Wesleyan University. For more information contact Director of Education Lindsey Clausen at 402-466-8692.

Set the Stage For Summer! Classes located at Christ Lutheran Church

4325 Sumner St. (unless otherwise noted)

Total Theatre Experience

Director’s Training

Classes held at Kloefkorn Elementary

$150 • Ages 12-18 May 29-June 1 & June 4-8 9:30-3:30

Rising Stars

Playwriting Workshop

$200 • Ages 8-12 June 4-8 • 9:30-3:30

$100 • Ages 3-8 9:30-11:00 June 11-15: Nursery Rhyme Time June 18-22: A Musical Castle June 25-29: Animal Fair

Musical Theatre Training $125 • Ages 8+ (11:15-1:15)

$75 • Ages 10+ June 25-29 • 3:30-5:00

Around the world in song $200 • Ages 7-15 July 9-13 • 9:30-3:30

$125 • Ages 10+ (1:30-3:30) June 11-15: Voice June 18-22: Dance June 25-29: Acting

Registration & full program details at

TAFK.ORG

Little Shop of Horrors All Ages • Adults, Too! Auditions: May 5th

Rehearsals: Mon/Thu Evenings Performances: July 27 & 28

LK!

HAYMARKET T H E AT R E

2018 Line Up

— SPRING — Camp • Mar 12-16, 9am-4pm | $175 Lights, Camera Action! An Intro to Film Making

Musical • Saturdays | Mar 24-May 12, 10am-4pm | $300 A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Death Star Early Bird Discount of $25 if enrolled by Feb 28

— SUMMER — Before & after care available for summer camps.

One-Week Camps | $175 Musical Theatre • May 28-Jun 1, 10am-4pm Comedy Warehouse • Jun 25-29, 10am-4pm

Programs & Musicals | $400 ***Early Bird Discount*** $25 off if enrolled by May 15

The Time Machine • Jun 4-22, 10am-4pm Super Academy • Jul 2-20, 10am-4pm The Addams Family, A New Musical Comedy • Jul 23-Aug 10, 10am-4pm

— UP NEXT — Fall: The Murder Mystery Monster Mayhem of Manchester Manor Winter: Elf, Jr. The Musical

Registration & tickets available online!

HaymarketTheatre.org 402-477-2600 Page 22 • LincolnKidsInc.com

A Crafty Blast From the Past By Christy Nelson, Mākit Tākit

grew up in the ’80s and spent my childhood crafting. I had fashion plates, a spirograph, play-doh, a lite brite, and a sticker collection full of Lisa Frank and Mrs. Grossmans. Trends come and go, but some crafts from years past are making a comeback. Check out these classic projects that have a fresh look for today.

Shrinky Dinks They are back! Or

did they ever really leave? We love making Shrinky Dinks at our studio. Kids (and grown-ups!) color on the Shrinky Dink plastic and then use our heat gun to shrink their creations right before their eyes! Perfect for charms, keychains, pins, jewelry, and more.

String Art

I remember creating with string art during vacation bible school when I was a child, and it’s still a favorite choice at our studio today! We have a huge colorful selection of embroidery floss—try the variegated floss to give texture to your design. What kind of design would you choose to make? Whatever you do, it’ll be totally rad.

Macramé Seriously—macramé is

back! Macramé is the process of adding knots to cord or string to make attractive designs. We use it for jewelry and wall hangings. I wonder if my mom still has all of those retro macramé planter holders...

Embroidery I loved stitching as a

child and picking out embroidery kits at the hobby stores. Today, embroidery is seen on high-end clothing and

as artwork in many stylish homes. Embroidering is seemingly timeless and a great way to keep hands busy. We have a variety of fun stitching kits at our store, including adorable Tubby Wubbys—cute, little animals to hook onto backpacks or turn into keychains.

Spin Art I think any kind of art

where you get to make a mess stays on trend. Here at Mākit Tākit, we’ve been trying out some new spins on spin art, and I can assure you it’s just as fun now as it was back in the day! Make these fun, messy crafts at our store without worrying about cleanup. We even have a Splatter Room for creating Pollock-inspired paintings! If you’re looking for a crafty blast from the past or want to try something entirely new, check out all we have to offer at Mākit Tākit. We love to make messes and memories.

Mākit Tākit brings all the elements of craft together in one place: materials, tools, techniques, and lots of fun! We have a wide variety of projects, crafting supplies, and kits all priced for you to complete your project right here in our studio. At Mākit Tākit, we offer evening and weekend classes, lessons and special events, dropin studio time, parties for kids and adults, date night specials, and school’s out camps, too! See projects and learn more at MakitTakit. com. Stop by our studio, pick out a project, and either Mākit or Tākit! 4720 Prescott Avenue, across from Union College.

Party

with us!

Arts & Crafts for ages 6+ Parties for up to 40 ppl Splatter Paint Slime Giant Murals Button Art Custom Projects & more!

...drop in sessions, too!

MakitTakit.com

402-483-4232

LK!

Create! Write! Share! By Sandra Peter and Susan Dinsdale, Nebraska Writing Project

hy do people write? To inform? For their careers? For educational reasons? Many write for recreation because it’s calming or stress-relieving, or it simply makes them happy. Did you know there is a summer program for those who enjoy writing? If you love to write or want to start your writing journey, these classes are for you! I Love to Write and I Love to Write 2 for students, and We Love to Write for families, sponsored by The Nebraska Writing Project, are fun, exploratory, and educational writing workshops on UNL’s East Campus that have been offered for more than twenty years. “The instructors are so involved, friendly, and encouraging. Allowing [my children] to explore East Campus is one of their highlights— getting to have time set aside in a busy summer just to think and write while on the beautiful outdoor settings of the campus. The writing week is one of their highlights each year,” said Melissa, a mother of two young writers, now 15 and 9, who attended recent workshops. Leaders provide coaching and guidance to inspire creativity. Students explore prose, poetry, and writing for professional purposes with just enough instructional organization to encourage all levels of writing abilities. Writers meet two hours a day for one week to expand their knowledge and love of writing. In the program, words become poems, stories, notes, chapters, and pages as writers increase their ability to play with and shape words.

{ $75 { $90 {

I Am Mulan by Liliana Abele age 9, 3rd grade at Pyrtle

Created at I Love To Write Summer Writing Workshop

I am Mulan Brave, strong, kind Child of Fa Zhou and Fa Li Who loves her father Who needs to help Who feels like girls are equal to boys Who gives love Who fears that the army will ﬁnd out she's a girl Who would love to be recognized A girl I am Mulan “I liked that you can write whatever is on your mind. And you can be creative. I loved that I was able to think more deeply and come up with more ideas for my writing,” says Lily, an I Love to Write student from last summer. The workshops will introduce you to fellow writers and new concepts. Relationships emerge in the safe, friendly atmosphere, providing you with a comfortable platform for giving and receiving feedback as a writer. Sharing your ideas with your peers could be the ticket for developing new styles and directions for your own needs. At the end of the week, a celebration wraps up the experience. Families and friends join the writer’s reception where you share a selected creation from your week’s work. If you love to write, please join us! Be part of a creative environment with just enough structure to produce

and share your powerful writing. Join others just like you. The friendships you make will last well beyond your week together on campus. Registration fills quickly— reserve your space today! For more information, view the Nebraska Writing Project online at unl.edu/newp, email Sandra at xlove2writex@gmail.com, Susan at susanloves2write@gmail.com, and see our ad below. We look forward to writing with you!

Nebraska Writing Project Summer Writing Workshops

June 25-29, 2018 I Love to Write Ages 7-11 9-11am or 11:30am-1:30pm I Love to Write2 Ages 12-14 • 2-4pm We Love To Write Family Workshop Ages 7 to adult • 6-8pm

Beginner Chinese classes for kids. (as a second language)

Next Class: Fall 2018

Registration opens this Summer • Classes at UNL & UNO • Ages 6 and up • Weekend classes • Adult Chinese classes also available!

Visit our website for info & sign up to receive updates!

confuciusinstitute.unl.edu (402) 472-5370

confuciusinstitute@unl.edu W205 Nebraska Hall | Lincoln, NE 68588-0542 facebook.com/ConfuciusUNL

@ConfuciusUNL

Love to write?

Join the Summer Writing Workshops by Nebraska Writing Project, held at East Campus! June 25-29 • Space is Limited—Register Early! Youth 7-11 years: 9-11am or 11:30am-1:30pm Youth 12-14 years: 2-4pm Family Workshops: 6-8pm

& Registration Forms found at: www.unl.edu/newp { Info or Email Sandra at: XLove2WriteX@gmail.com

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Spring 2018 • Page 23

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Read Today. Succeed Tomorrow. Submitted by Read Aloud Lincoln

FREE Child-Friendly Events STORYTIME | Tue & Sat, 10-11am Storytime with music, games or crafts. Bilingual Saturdays! INDIEXPLORE | 2ND Fri, 10-11am Activities & readings on interesting topics for curious minds. FAMILY GAME NIGHTS Feb 20 • Mar 20, 6-8pm Bring your favorite board games or come play ours!

Coffee + Community STORE HOURS

M-Sat | 9-9 Sun | 12-8 Creamery Building | 701 P. St. Ste 102 402-477-7770 | follow us

indigobridgebooks.com

The first 25 kids who come to the LK! Birthday Bash on Sunday, March 4th, will receive door prizes, including a gift card to Indigo Bridge! Find out more about the party on pages 3 & 7.

Sculptures from Students at The LUX

Al g n i d a

This is a pig.

Sculpture by Jonathan Reyes, age 10, student at LUX Center for the Arts

Pigs say Oink!

e dB

tance of reading aloud 15 minutes daily from birth to age eight. Its primary goal is to have every child ready to read when entering kindergarten. Read Aloud Lincoln provides children and their families with expanded opportunities to learn about, experiment with, and talk about reading activities through reading challenges, museum experiences, parental workshops, and community celebrations. Find useful tips, informative articles, age-appropriate book lists, and readaloud events happening in Lincoln at readaloudlincoln.org and on the Read Aloud Lincoln Facebook page. Read Aloud Lincoln is made possible through a grant from the Institute of Museums and Library Services and the Lincoln Community Foundation. Inspiration for Read Aloud Lincoln comes from the work of Prosper Lincoln, which identifies a goal to “nurture every child on the path to success.” Read Aloud Lincoln supports Prosper Lincoln’s goals to promote community awareness, partner with initiatives throughout Lincoln, and increase resources that encourage and improve early childhood development. Community involvement and support of Read Aloud Lincoln is encouraged and greatly appreciated.

neﬁts the

We bonding over books.

tir

Indigo Bridge Books & Cafe is a cozy independent bookstore and cafe nestled in the Haymarket. The kidfriendly space is the perfect meeting spot to grab a book, a gift, or a tasty drink and lunch. Plus, 100% of coffee sales go straight back into nonprofit community programs right here in Lincoln! Join them for free family events happening each month and find out what makes Indigo the #1 independent bookstore in Nebraska.

15 minutes from birth to age eight. In fact, reading aloud is the single most important thing you can do to prepare your child for lifelong learning. It’s easy to read aloud 15 minutes every day if you remember these three things: Anytime At breakfast, in the bath, before bedtime—anytime! Anything Books, magazines, brochures, whatever you’re reading. Anywhere Inside or outdoors, at home or on a plane—anyplace can be a reading space! Make the time you spend reading aloud every day something your child enjoys and looks forward to day after day. What can be better than snuggling up with a colorful book and giggling about the story together? Not only will you be building your child’s language skills, but you’ll also be fostering a special storytime bond. Knowing that not all children are read to regularly or have access to books in their homes prompted the creation of Read Aloud Lincoln. The initiative is spreading the word to the Lincoln community about the impor-

Local Love

omething as simple as reading aloud to children 15 minutes every day can directly impact a child’s academic success—and it’s never too early to begin. Babies’ brains are amazing! Researchers today know more about how a baby’s brain develops than ever before. Babies are born with 100 billion neurons that, by age three, have made 1,000 trillion connections between them. These neural connections, which take shape during the child’s early experiences, make learning possible. Babies are hungry to learn! What does that mean for parents and caregivers? Babies’ brains are ready to be stimulated and add new information from day one. From birth to age three is a critical time to “feed your child’s brain, by talking, singing, playing, and reading aloud together,” according to Dr. John S. Hutton, Pediatrician and Research Fellow at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital. One of the most effective ways to “feed a child’s brain” is to read aloud to them every day for at least

e Fa m i

Bricks are strong. What will happen next?

Mermaid by Isla Anshutz, age 6, student at LUX Center for the Arts

15 Minutes each day fosters a lifetime of learning. A child’s academic success at ages 9-10 can be attributed to the amount of words heard from ages 0-3. The Ferst Foundation; Hart and Risley, Meaningful Diﬀerences in the Everyday Experience of Young American Children.

Dragon by Winnie Wei, age 5, student at LUX Center for the Arts

Page 24 • LincolnKidsInc.com

Find Resources & Local Events at

ReadAloudLincoln.org

LK!

New and Notable at the Library By Vicki Wood, Youth Services Supervisor, Lincoln City Libraries, Bennett Martin Public Library

mong the thousands of books published for children each year, dozens will win awards or show up consistently on “best of” and “notable” lists published by organizations such as the American Library Association, the New York Times Review of Books, and the Bank Street College of Education. It’s fun to discover the new titles, and you’re likely to notice some books appear on multiple lists. Of course, the library staff does our mighty best to make sure we own these outstanding books and to highlight them in displays. Be the first on your block to bring these treasures home to share with your young readers; there is surely something for every interest and reading level. The Little Red Cat Who Ran Away and Learned His ABC’s (The Hard Way) by Patrick McDonnell is an amazingly fresh take on an alphabet book. It’s almost wordless, with the expectation that readers will follow

clues and fill in gaps as to which words represent each letter. Rooster = Gallo by Jorge Lujan celebrates the coming of day, and the approach of nightfall, with a simple bilingual prose poem in which a feisty blue rooster plays an active role in the progression of the 24-hour life cycle. Aaron Reynolds and Peter Brown weave together the funny with the spooky in the story of Jasper Rabbit’s Creepy Pair of Underwear, featuring a frightening undergarment that returns to its owner despite being tossed, buried, and even mailed to China. For beginning readers, the new Andy and Sandy series, written and illustrated by Tomie DePaola, offers a refreshing look at a friendship between a bold girl and a somewhat reticent boy. The fourth in the series, Andy & Sandy and the Big Talent Show, finds the supportive friends reversing roles when Sandy unexpectedly develops stage fright. Graphic books are all the rage for school-aged readers, and two outstanding examples represent some of the best in the genre. In All’s Faire in

Middle School, written and illustrated by Victoria Jamieson, home-schooled Imogene, raised on the Renaissance Faire circuit by her loving and eccentric parents, struggles to fit into the traditional middle school life. Dogs: From Predator to Protector by Andy Hirsch is part of the excellent Science Comics series, sure to draw in young science enthusiasts, as well as reluctant readers. This volume focuses on understanding the genetics behind how the domestic dog evolved from his wolf ancestors, as well as canine anatomy and behavior. Some children gravitate to the non-fiction collection for their recreational reading. The celebrated books in this collection are fascinating and far-ranging. Some notable biographies include: Just A Lucky So and So: The Story of Louis Armstrong by Lesa ClineRansome, a buoyant look at the famous jazz innovator. I Dissent: Ruth Bader Ginsburg Makes Her Mark by Debbie Levy, illustrated by Elizabeth Baddeley, explores the career of the iconic

Supreme Court Justice. The Secret Subway: The Fascinating Tale of an Amazing Feat of Engineering by Martin Sandler, is the story of the relatively unknown Alfred Beach, the man behind the New York City subway system. In the field of animal and human life, Book of Bones: 10 Record-Breaking Animals by Gabrielle Balkan explores the bone architecture of amazing animals in a clever guessing game format. Pond by Jim LaMarche portrays the efforts of a group of young children who transform a dried-up, rubbish-filled pit back into its former glory as a habitat for animals and a playground for children. Finally, Giant Squid by Candace Fleming describes all we know about one of nature’s most mysterious creatures, and features new discoveries about this elusive beast of the deep. Each of our Librarians has personal reading preferences and subject specialties. Be sure to ask your branch librarian for reading recommendations…after all, we’re all about the books!

READING ALOUD builds literacy skills essential to school success. Visit the library or lincolnlibraries.org for information about library programs and events. ReadAloud.org

Spring 2018 • Page 25

LK!

Come Join Us for Our 31st Annual

Saturday, April 7th, 9 a.m.–Noon.

MARCH 22-25

artwork displays and more!

MARCH 22: 10-7 | MARCH 23: 10-6 | MARCH 24: 10-7 | MARCH 25: 10-2

The String Beans perform at 11am!

For children ages

performin g lso

Hands-on activities,

Free to the public!

The DMNV

Lion Dance Team!

birth – eight.

Held at the SCC Gymnasium 8800 “O” Street Sponsored in part by: Lincoln Chapter, Nebraska AEYC

Plan your next adventure!

Fin

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on our we b s i t e !

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When is a 504 Plan Appropriate? By Kathy Johnson, Nebraska Dyslexia Association

Page 28 • LincolnKidsInc.com

f you have a child who would benefit from receiving classroom accommodations and may or may not qualify for an IEP (Individualized Education Plan), you may want to consider a 504 plan. Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act is a federal law that requires a school district receiving federal funds to provide Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) to each child with a disability in the district. Section 504 states “no otherwise qualified individual with a disability in the United States shall, solely by reason of her or his disability, be excluded from the participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance.” An appropriate education for a student with a disability under Section 504 regulations could consist of lessons taking place in the regular classroom, education taking place in the regular classroom with supplementary programs or services, or special education services. An IEP (Individualized Education Plan) is developed to ensure that a child who has a disability identified under the law and is attending an elementary or secondary educational institution receives specialized instruction and related services. Students must meet state-mandated criteria to qualify for an IEP. A Section 504 plan is a written document that ensures students who have a disability will receive reasonable accommodations from their school district for accessing a free appropriate education. A child is eligible for a 504 plan if they have a physical or mental disability that limits a major life activity or affects their ability to learn in a regular classroom setting. Major life activities may include, but are not limited to, caring for oneself, performing manual tasks, hearing, seeing, speaking, thinking, walking, breathing, learning and working (What Is Section 504?; Disabilityrightsnebraska.org). Like an IEP, a 504 can be initiated by the parents/guardians or the school; however, it does NOT require paren-

tal consent. A 504 plan simply provides accommodations and involves re-evaluation before a significant change of placement can happen. A 504 plan does not usually provide direct services, require goals, have a timeline, need a written document, nor does it require procedural safeguards as an IEP does. Having a 504 for a student can be a great option, but plans do need to be revisited often and parents are responsible for making sure it is being followed. One way to do this is to teach your child to self-advocate for those specific accommodations needed for academic success. It is also good to know that these accommodations are there for students only if they need them. As the student gets older and makes the decision that they no longer want or need to use an accommodation listed, that is perfectly acceptable. College-bound students can also greatly benefit from a 504 plan. Students that are transitioning from high school to college need to understand that they are allowed accommodations under Section 504 and that an IEP is no longer valid in college. However, receiving those accommodations is entirely up to the student. The difference between an IEP and a 504 is significant, but one is not better than the other. A 504 Plan is an excellent alternative for those students who do not meet specific qualifications and simply need classroom accommodations to be as successful as possible. For more information on Dyslexia and related reading problems, contact the Nebraska Dyslexia Association: www.ne-da-org or 402.434.6434.

ABOOK llisBAG on’s

LK!

Recommended reading for your Lincoln Kids! by Allison Hunter-Frederick

Beginning Readers: Theodore Suess Geisel Award WE ARE GROWING by Laurie Keller We Are Growing bursts with the exuberance one would expect of a winner of the Theodor Seuss Geisel Award. Such exuberance is perhaps the only way an author could comically write about a mundane topic such as grass. Each blade of grass is growing and proud of being the tallest, the curliest, or the silliest. But one long piece of grass doesn’t know what’s special about him until a lawn mower reduces them to the same size. Through googly-eyed blades of grass and slapstick moments, Keller gently teaches that we’re all the best at something.

Picture Books: Caldecott Medal RADIANT CHILD by Javaka Steptoe Jean-Michel Basquiat, an artistic New York prodigy, grew up creating art with the support of his mom. From her, Basquiat learned that art is found not just in museums and theaters, but also in the games he played and the people he met. Basquiat suffered severe injuries when he was struck by a car at age seven, and at 13 witnessed the institutionalization of his mother, who was plagued with mental distress from there on out. Javaka Steptoe captures the hardships and energies of Basquiat’s life with his rich writing style and creative illustrations. To give meaning to the book’s artwork, Steptoe collected bits of scrap wood from around Basquiat’s home in New York City, and used them as canvases onto which he painted scenes from his book. He also adeptly integrates Basquiat’s favorite motifs into his illustrations. Radiant Child is a brilliant Caldecott-winner biography!

Children’s Literature: Newbery Medal THE GIRL WHO DRANK THE MOON by Kelly Barnhill Entrenched in fantasy, complex characters, and poignant themes, The Girl Who Drank the Moon is impossible to put down. Every year, the people of the Protectorate leave a baby as an offering to the witch that lives in the forest. But nothing is as it seems in this Newbery-winning novel. In fact, the witch is kind. She rescues the children and delivers them to welcoming families on the other side of the forest. One year, the witch discovers one of the children possesses magic and decides to raise Luna as her own, but the baby’s mother is searching for her, and on her journey meets a man who is determined to free his people from the witch. Eventually, all paths intersect with a message of love.

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Allison Hunter-Frederick is an administrative assistant at Bethany Christian Church. She hosts a review blog at allisonsbookbag.wordpress.com, blogs for lincolnanimalambassadors.wordpress.com, and regularly contributes to Neighborhood Extra, Lincoln 55+, and Lincoln Kids! Newspaper.

Spring 2018 • Page 29

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YMCA Camp Kitaki has summer camp programs for kids ages 7-17. One week sessions all summer long! • Summer Camp programs • Ranch Camp programs for kids who love horses! • 1/2 week Adventure Mini Camps for young campers age 7-9 • Two week Leadership Camp programs for teens age 14-17

YMCA Camp Kitaki strives to provide a safe environment where participants can grow in their: • Relationship • Positive Identity • Values • Skills We do this in a unique natural setting

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

Page 30 • LincolnKidsInc.com

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Celebrating Birds By Lindsay Rogers, Wildlife Education Specialist, Nebraska Game & Parks Commission

f you are like me, your to-do list is probably pretty extensive. Chores like paying bills, doing the laundry and washing the dishes are just the start. Then there are the fun things on the list, like fishing with my kids, exploring the local nature center, and planting our vegetable garden. I do not have the time, resources, or skills to provide the State of Nebraska with biological control of insect pests. I cannot provide seed dispersal for the numerous plant species, like ground plum and prairie rose. And I surely cannot offer food for thousands of Nebraska wildlife species. The good news is that I don’t have to— and neither do you. Nebraskans can rely on our more than 450 species of birds to do all this work. One of the best examples of a service provided by birds is their job as biological controls. Birds—especially songbirds—eat vast quantities of insects each spring, summer, and fall. Without birds in our ecosystem, we’d be inundated with mosquitoes, flies, beetles, and grasshoppers. In turn, these “extra” insects would cause extensive damage to crops, spread diseases, and defoliate trees. Birds are also part of the food web. Many mammals feed on both adult birds and bird eggs. Larger birds like hawks, owls and eagles often feed on smaller birds. Snakes rely on bird eggs to provide a rich source of protein. Equally important is the role birds play in Nebraska’s economy. Wildlife viewing—including bird watching—brings in more than $700

million to Nebraska’s economy each year through travel expenses and the sale of equipment. Additionally, outdoor recreation provides 74,000 direct jobs across the state. I enjoy listening for birds. Cardinals are often calling when I leave for work, and I hear Blue Jays throughout the day. Sometimes as the sun sets, I can make out the faint call of tiny Screech Owls. Let’s take a moment to celebrate our birds. Step outside and listen for their sounds. Or leave your yard and head to a nature center or local or state park. These locations will have a broad diversity of birds and plenty of room to roam; nature centers will often have resources available for you to learn about what you see. At home, try putting up a bird feeder. If possible, place the feeder just outside your window—the reflection on the window will act as a blind so the birds do not notice you, and you will have a front row seat for the action. Incorporate science and math into your home by keeping track of which birds and how many of them visit your feeder. Spring is a busy time of year for both people and birds. There are lots of reasons not to go outside and watch birds, but surely celebrating birds and all the services they provide is a worthy endeavor. Plus, it is a fantastic excuse to postpone the laundry and boring chores! Admiring these critical species is a perfect opportunity to get outside, learn as a family, and make memories! UPCOMING! This coming May is Nebraska Migratory Bird Month. Across the state, conservation organizations and agencies have planned events, classes and festivals. Many of these events are free and kid-friendly, with some adult-only ones, too. Check out the website, NebraskaBirdMonth.org to plan for birding fun this Spring and Summer.

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Word From the BirdNerd 2018: The Year of the Bird

By Jason St. Sauver, The BirdNerd, Spring Creek Prairie Audubon Center

he National Audubon Society, National Geographic, BirdLife International, and the Cornell Lab of Ornithology have established 2018 as the Year of the Bird. Start your year of celebrating birds with these suggestions: First, participate in the Great Backyard Bird Count between February 16-19. It’s easy and fun! Just count the birds in your backyard or local park for at least 15 minutes, then enter your count at birdcount.org. Reports submitted from all over the world provide researchers with a global snapshot of bird populations. Second, clean out & prepare your birdhouses for migratory birds returning to Nebraska in April. Furry pets can help, too! Brush your pets and place the removed fur by trees and birdhouses; the birds will use it to make nice, warm nests. Finally, don’t forget the seed and

feed! Birdwatching is a fun hobby, and you’ll see more activity when you fill your feeder with nuts, fruits, and seeds. Celebrate the Year of the Bird with Spring Creek Prairie. Walk the beautiful trails and observe both local and visiting wildlife. Follow us on social media to discover tips, events, information, and beautiful photos of birds and nature!

celebrating birds and National Poetry Month. We’ll have a kids poetry workshop starting at 11am, a bird walk and poetry readings after lunch. Free and fun! For more information contact Jason St. Sauver, the BirdNerd at Spring Creek Prairie Audubon Center, or catch up with him at the next event!

Spring Creek Prairie Audubon Center

Upcoming Events at Spring Creek Prairie

11700 SW 100th St. | Denton

February 16-18:

402-797-2301

Great Backyard Bird Count! Be a community scientist and learn more about our feathered friends with a weekend full of birding activities. Free bird walk on Friday & Saturday, 10am-12pm, and a special workshop on eBird for kids and families at 1pm on Sunday.

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April 29: Words 4 Birds! Join us for our 3rd annual Words 4 Birds event,

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worldofknowledgeNE.com Page 32 • LincolnKidsInc.com

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Springtime in Fleming Woods Article and photo by Annie Friesen, Intern at Pioneers Park Nature Center

Reminder!

This spring, explore Fleming Woods and see if you can spot one of the uniquely named plants or a groundhog burrow hole. Remember, the Nature Center has a no-collecting policy: please look at the plants but don’t take them. We’d love for you to join us on our “Saturdays with Our Naturalist” guided hikes (the third Saturday of each month) to learn more about nature at PPNC!

n April and May, flowers begin to bloom in Fleming Woods at the Pioneers Park Nature Center (PPNC). Some of the plants that grow in the woods have especially unique names! Dutchman’s Breeches, Jack in the Pulpit, Woodland Phlox, and Virginia Bluebells, just to name a few.

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Why is that area called Fleming Woods, anyway? Ruth Mary Bates Fleming was born in 1882 in Nebraska. All her life, she loved plants, nature, and flowers and spent her time in school learning about them. Ruth had three sons, Jim, Dave, and Bob, whom she passed her love of flowers and plants on to; she taught them how to care for and identify plants. When Ruth passed away in 1963, she left behind a homestead near Pioneers Park. The land was donated to the park and became Fleming Woods in honor of Ruth and her three sons.

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Trash from the Fleming Homestead resurfacing next to a groundhog burrow

While people enjoy walking through Fleming Woods, other critters can be spotted in the area, too. A few years ago people kept finding broken glass and trash scattered throughout the woods, and it turned out that a groundhog was digging up an old trash pile from the Fleming homestead!

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Spring 2018 • Page 33

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Twice the Fun By Charleen Engberg, Dir. of Volunteers and Education, Capital Humane Society

W Registration is now open! 2018-19 School Year Directed by McKenzie True

Trusted Academic Program Creative Environment Experienced Care

hen asked to describe their recently adopted cats, Oscar and Annie, Rob and Pat Wikel said, “Oscar is more laid back. When we took him into the house and opened his carrier, he took a look around, jumped out, and started his inspection tour. You could almost see him casing the joint as he moved from room to room.” “Yup, this seems okay, the food dish is in the right place. Nice-looking sofa. They have a big litter box, good. Here’s a nice window sill...oh, yes, a back porch where we can get a little fresh air; yeah, I think this will do.” Annie was another story. “She clawed her way out of her carrier on the way home, crying quite a bit,” they said. “We managed to get her into the house, and she promptly disappeared for a day or so. We found her on a dining room chair, underneath the table, hidden by the tablecloth. She came out later to explore. Now she is very alert, quick to react to noises and movement, and very cuddly; she gets up on our laps and goes to sleep. Oscar takes life more slowly. He will lie on the window perch for long periods of time, dozing and occasionally taking a look outside. We are pleased that they both are lap cats and spend time sitting on our laps.” Adopting two cats from Capital Humane Society can mean twice as much fun! Sometimes cats come in together and are already bonded. Other times, they spend time together as a colony in our adoption program. “We wanted them to be company for each other,” the Wikels

explained. Adopting multiples is not just a bonus for the animals; if you adopt two pets at the same time, the adoption fee for the second pet is half price. The Wikels appreciated that their new feline family members, like all cats adopted from Capital Humane Society, were microchipped and examined by our vet staff prior to adoption. Also included in the cat’s adoption fee, if needed, is the spay/ neuter surgery, treatment for parasites, a Feline Leukemia/FIV test, and an FVRCP vaccination. If behavior issues arise, there are handouts available to help on our website at www.CapitalHumaneSociety. org. Solutions for litter box and scratching problems can come in handy as your new cat friend (or friends!) learn the ropes in their new home. Our animal behaviorist is also available to offer advice. “They often seek us out, especially Annie, who will lap-nap for quite awhile,” said the Wikels. “Oscar naps on the sofa, and likes to have someone come up to him and start petting him. He has a loud purr, Annie’s is much softer.” If you love cats, check out the beauties waiting to be adopted at our Pieloch Pet Adoption Center. They are ready to purr the days away in a great new home. Capital Humane Society 402-441-4488 Pieloch Pet Adoption Center 6500 S. 70th Street Lincoln, NE 68516 Admissions & Assessment Center 2320 Park Boulevard Lincoln, NE 68502

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TrueKnowledgeLincoln.com Page 34 • LincolnKidsInc.com

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Therapy Cats

P t T lk

with Allison Hunter-Frederick, Reader, Writer, Blogger, & Animal Lover AllisonTalksPets@gmail.com

f you enjoy the company of cats, you probably already know how good they can be your well-being. In fact, some cats are trained to be therapy animals. Did you know that therapy cats are good for emotional, mental, and physical health? Cat therapy can do wonders for nursing home residents, stressed students, mental health patients, children, and many others. What makes a good therapy cat? It will need to be a cat with strong social skills. Although therapy cats don’t have to be as outwardly affectionate as therapy dogs, they should show signs of friendliness and be comfortable meeting new people and visiting new places. A good therapy cat also benefits from knowing basic obedience. As with many other therapy animals, therapy cats must be on a leash while “on the job” and comfortable with traveling in a carrier or stroller. Some challenges specific to therapy cats include: Allergies: As a safety precaution, ask each person if they would like to meet your cat. About 15% of the American population is allergic to cats or dogs. Therapy animals should be cleaned and groomed before each visit, which reduces allergens. Biting/Scratching: Therapy animals are required to pass a temperament evaluation before obtaining certification. Animals that bite or scratch do not pass.

Interaction with Dogs: Try to schedule visits separate from other therapy animals. Other animals may react negatively to therapy cats. The Misconception that Cats Carry Diseases and Parasites: Therapy animals are tested and treated for diseases and parasites. Also, most therapy cats are indoors only, and thus exposed to fewer of these threats than pets that are allowed outside. My youngest cat and I are working on her cat therapy certification from Love on a Leash. First, we had our veterinarian sign the required evaluation form. She described Rainy as “social, inquisitive, and sweet.” Next, I socialized Rainy by taking her for walks on her leash, stroller-rides at pet-friendly stores, and visits to my friends. We are currently taking the final step of supervised visits with seniors. If these sessions are successful, Rainy will be a Certified Therapy Cat.

Rainy

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The Good Life by Avery Carter, 4th Grade, created at Milford Elementary in the 3rd Grade

Spring 2018 • Page 35

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The Path to Healthier Schools and Healthier Kids By Bob Rauner, MD MPH, President, Partnership for a Healthy Lincoln

ne of the most significant determinants of children’s health is their environment. Put them in a healthy environment, and they will be healthy. Put them in an unhealthy environment, and they will be unhealthy. Parents are of course responsible for much of their child’s setting, but when class is in session, our schools are accountable for half of our youth’s environment. The education system is a major factor determining both the health of our children and our community.

(the food processor lobby). Schools have to adhere to these federal regulations and, despite funding limitations, are doing the best they can. Vending machines are an area where we have seen a lot of progress. Many school vending machines have limited options in pop and other sugar-sweetened beverages, or have entirely removed the machines from campus. Some breakthroughs have also been made regarding food marketing strategies by successfully eliminating deceptive advertising and promotions by soda companies.

What’s a “Healthy School Environment”? What are the key ingredients of a healthy school environment? These can be lumped into two main categories: healthy food and adequate physical activity time, both of which have a substantial impact on a student’s academic achievement.

The More They Burn the Better They Learn

Healthy Food– What’s On the Menu? The first ingredient is healthy foods, which depends on the school’s meal program, vending machines, and the approach to food marketing. School meal requirements at the federal level have been in the news quite a bit recently due to some controversial specifications, like incomprehensive regulations. For example, one order requires restricting calories and serving sizes across the board, ignoring the different caloric needs from one child to another; it assumes the standard meal will suffice for a 95-pound dancer, 130-pound tech student, and a 225-pound linebacker. Another federal-level issue is regulations on products of special interest groups, like unlimited french fries (the potato lobby) and counting pizza sauce as a vegetable serving, even though tomatoes aren’t vegetables

Kids Need P.E. & Recess If kids have recess and physical activity breaks during class, do they really need P.E.? YES! Physical education is far more than just setting kids loose on the playground or in the classroom; it is teaching kids skills and how to use those skills to be healthy for life. Over and over, research shows that when kids get more P.E. time, they do better physically, mentally, and emotionally— which is good for kids, good for parents, and good for schools. The area where we lag most in Lincoln Public Schools is P.E. curriculum time in elementary schools. A broad coalition of health experts from the National Academy of Sciences,

the American Heart Association, and the Society for Health and Physical Education recommends daily P.E. or a weekly minimum number of minutes per week for physical education. These minimums are often 2 or 3 times more than what kids in Lincoln public schools are currently getting. Do you know how much physical education time your child is getting in school? Check with your child’s school and advocate for more physical education. Help your children gain the skills they need to be healthy for life. Partnership for a Healthy Lincoln (PHL) is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the health, wellness, and fitness of our community. We collaborate with other organizations on joint projects to improve health by increasing physical fitness, promoting healthy weights and good nutrition, supporting breastfeeding, and improving vaccination and cancer screening rates.

The second ingredient is sufficient physical activity, which depends on three components: physical education time, recess, and physical activity breaks during the school day. We have made a lot of headway in Lincoln’s schools concerning recess and physical activity breaks, but still lag substantially in P.E. curriculum time. Recess is important because, in addition to the physical activity benefits, it has proven critical for a child’s social and emotional development. Aware of the importance of recess, the American Academy of Pediatrics published a policy paper arguing for adequate recess time in schools. Partly because of this, Lincoln Public Schools has a district-wide practice for all schools to include daily recess time. Physical activity in the classroom is also essential. These short breaks & active lessons have shown to benefit academic improvements in attention and memory. A new approach to this concept is the use of GoNoodle in many Lincoln schools. GoNoodle is an online library of fun, teacher-accessible videos that combine physical activities and academic curriculum. Spring 2018 • Page 37

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Foundational Values for Our Children Submitted by Lutheran Schools of Lincoln

A complete K-12 education in a faith-based, family-centric setting. Contact any of our Admissions Directors to learn more or to set up a personal tour. Christ Faith Messiah

Trinity Good Shepherd Lincoln Lutheran

lutheranschoolsoﬂincoln.org ACADEMICS • FAITH-BASED • FAMILY-CENTRIC • STABILITY

Page 38 • LincolnKidsInc.com

any organizations establish a short list of core values that support their mission statement. These core values are often considered non-negotiable. Decisions are made through the filter of these core values, making sure the results support the mission of the organization. Values are defined as “a person’s principles or standards of behavior; one’s judgment of what is important in life” (oxforddictionaries. com). As Christians, what is most important and valued in life is faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. The Lutheran Schools of Lincoln (LSL) base all we do and teach on this core value. Pair that with excellence in academics, small school environments, and teachers who uphold these same values, and you have the perfect place for any child to grow and learn. As Christians, we believe God has given parents the responsibility of raising their children and teaching

them the truths found in His Word. Raising children requires substantial time, often a scarce commodity for many parents today. It also calls for prayer, discipline, involvement, and relationship-building. But you don’t have to be alone on this journey. LSL partners with parents to support and reinforce the truths and values taught at home. So what values do we want our children to have? The list could be endless: that Christ is central to life; that our children respect authority; the importance of healthy friendships. We teach compassion for others, especially those less fortunate, and that there is joy in serving others. We help children learn how to handle failure, keep promises, understand the power of forgiveness, and give thanks in all things. We foster problem-solving skills and a strong work ethic. We cultivate respect, kindness, honesty, courage, perseverance, self-discipline, compassion, generosity, and dependability. And we help youth discover God’s purpose for their life.

The Lutheran Schools of Lincoln have a mission of instilling these values into our students. We do this through strong, challenging, faith-based curriculum in a stable, family-centric environment filled with quality teachers and staff. We invite you to discover our five Elementary Schools and Lincoln Lutheran Middle & High School. Visit lutheranschoolsoflincoln.org to learn more.

Trumpeting Elephant Oil Pastel and Leaf Etchings by Mariano Atanassov, age 4, Art Academy Lincoln

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Kick Up Your Heels with Lincoln Irish Dancers Lincoln Irish Dancers

oin us for music, dancing, and fun— experience Irish traditions and culture this spring with the Lincoln Irish Dancers! The 20th Annual Lincoln Irish Dancers Community Ceili (KAYlee, an Irish social dance) will be held Sunday, March 11, 2018, from 6:30-9 p.m. at Auld Pavilion in Antelope Park. It’s fun for the whole family! There’ll be basic Irish dance instruction at 5:30 p.m. and a silent auction. Celtic Culture Camp continues the fun for kids ages 9-12 years with an immersive learning experience featuring Irish, Scottish and Welsh traditions. Culture Camp is held March 12-14, 2018, during LPS spring break. Monday & Tuesday sessions run from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and Wednesday from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. with a closing Family Ceili. Camp will be at the beautiful Roca Ridge Teaching Arts

Center, 5265 Prairie Sage Dr., in Roca. Check out the Center at www. rocaridgeevents.com. Youngsters will experience quality crafts, music demonstrations, and poetry, along with snacks and a traditional Irish meal served at lunch. Celtic Culture Camp features an immersive format for students to discover what resonates with their own culture while exploring Celtic culture and customs. Join us for Irish dance with Catherine Sherer Bishop from Jackson, Mississippi, and Nancy Konrardy, teaching artist and camp host at Roca Ridge. Instruction is also provided by local multi-instrumentalist, Dave Marsh (of Paddy Whack

and Ellis Island), Shelby Knott, Aaron Proett and Jimmy Shelbourn. Both Nancy and Dave are on the teaching roster for the Nebraska Arts Council. Volunteers from Lincoln Irish Dancers, St David’s Welsh Society of Nebraska and The Scottish Society of Nebraska are participating. Limited to 36 students. Reserve your child’s spot today! Visit www.lincolnirishdancers.org for more information or to register.

- Auditions for -

2018-19 Choirs

Black Cat by Charlotte Cline, Age 5, student at LUX Center for the arts

Friday, April 6 Saturday, April 7 Appointment required Register for a time at:

lincolnboyschoir.org or call 402-499-4446

SPRING 2018

Swimming lessons for ages 3 & up Call to ask about AquaBabies (under 3)

Warm Water & Good Times! We also book the best-priced pool parties in town!

SWIMMING LESSONS Lesson Dates:

No. of Sessions:

Registration Begins:

Feb 12 - Mar 1

6 classes

Jan 30

Mar 12 - Apr 5

8 classes

Feb 27

April 9 - 26

6 classes

Mar 27

May 7 - 24

6 classes

Apr 17

M/W or T/Th evenings. See website for schedules. Aquababies for 3 & under offered T/Th evenings.

402-486-2525 • 52nd & Stockwell www.ucollege.edu/larson-lifestyle-center

For a Refreshing Alternative to Daycare:

Thea Child’s View Montessori School 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 Open 7:15 am to 5:30 pm – Part or Full Time Care Available Spring 2018 • Page 39

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SPRING & SUMMER CAMPS & PROGRAMS

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Build Your Future with ABC Summer Construction Camps. Junior Builder’s Tour for middle school students & ABC Build Your Future: Construction 101 for high school students. Lincoln and Omaha. Contact the ABC office at 402-477-4451, Education@abcnebraska.org or see our ad & article on page 17 for more information.

Academic Advantage

How do you keep your school-ager busy during the summer? Children often find themselves “bored” after only a few weeks of summer. At AACDC we offer a summer program designed to excite children, encourage learning through field trips (typically 1-2 per day!), games, weekly themes, fun events, sports, arts/crafts, science experiments, reading and math fun, and more! For more information on the Summer Program for kids 5-12 years old, call one of our 3 Lincoln locations: (402) 465-4769 • (402) 421-7301 • (402) 420-5440 • AACDC.com. See ad page 45!

Art Academy

Workshops: Session I: June 4-8, “Sculpture & Pottery” (drawings made of creations prior to building of 3D pieces) & Session II: June 11-15, “Drawing & Painting” (all new projects!). Workshops M-F from 9am-12pm, Ages- K-5. To register: call 402-499-7754, leave a message or text, and visit artacademylincoln.com for more details!

ArtReach Project Summer Camps

What does it Take to Make? Imagine, Learn, Problem Solve, Collaborate & Create while discovering what it means to be a Creative Genius! Join The ArtReach Project this summer to find out what YOU are made of! Creative Genius Summer Camps are for ages 6-12 with a volunteer program for ages 13+. More info at artrearchproject.org. See p.50!

Bright Lights

Bright Lights offers five weeks of half-day classes & full-day camps for students K-8th grade. Hands-on classes cover a variety of fun, unique & engaging topics. Summer 2018 classes run June 4-8; June 11-15; June 18-22; June 25-29; and July 9-13. Class schedule available online at BrightLights.org. Registration begins March 24. Learn more on page 16.

Camp Kitaki

Fantastic Summer Camps: 3, 7 and 14-day experiences for ages 7–17. Spring Camps too! One week sessions begin in June through mid-August. Ranch camp for horse lovers, 1/2 week adventure mini camps for age 7-9, and leadership camps for ages 14-17. Call 402-434-9222 or visit YMCACampKitaki.org. See ad on page 30.

Camp Sonshine

Day camps for K-6 grade. Leadership training for 7-9th grade. Go-karts, archery, nature, crafts, outdoor cooking, swimming, inflatables and more! Conveniently located just minutes south of Lincoln at 13440 S. 25th St. in Roca! For info call (402) 423-8746. CampSonshineMemories.org. See our ad and article on page 13.

Camp Solaris

Overnight camps for 3rd-12th grade. Located at 2349 State Hwy Spur 34b, south Firth b/w Lincoln & Beatrice. Traditional camps & baseball camps. Activities include Aerial Park, archery tag, stand up paddle boards, go karts, water activities, nature challenge course & more! For info call (402)423-8746. CampSolaris.org. See p. 13!

Celtic Camp

Immerse yourself in Irish, Scottish, & Welsh traditions! Crafts, music, food, & fun! Held in the Roca Ridge Teaching Arts Center log cabin, 5265 Prairie Sage Dr., Roca. Ages 9-12 yrs • Mar 12-14: Mon & Tue 9:30am-3:30pm, & Wed 9:30am-4:30pm with Family Ceili. Pre-registration required: Lincolnirishdancers.org. Learn more, p. 39!

Christ Schools Game On!

Build, Create, Imagine! Ages 6-12. Sign up for weekly sessions filled with fun activities, learning & excursions all summer long. Centrally located at 43rd & Sumner. Call 402-483-7774 ext.110 or visit christschools.org for info and registration. Early registration occurring now! See our ad on page 32!

Competitive Edge Sports

This summer, give your child The Edge. Full-day wrestling camps for ages 4 & up, June 4th-Aug 3rd, 8:30am-5pm. Session options include: Beginner & Youth Wrestling • Freestyle & Greco • Technique • Speed, Strength, & Agility • Summer Intensive (State Games Prep Camp). Details & registration at LincolnEdge.com. See ad on pg. 12!

Defy Gravity

Summer camps during July from 8am-Noon, M-F for ages 6-12 yrs. $100/week for the first child, $75/sibling. Open Jump, Dodgeball, Free Fall, Trampoline Ninja, Dunk City, Climbing wall, Laser Maze, Ultimate Warrior & more! Limited spots available. Register online or call today! 402.817.6900 • DefyGravityLincoln.com. See ad on back page!

Dimensions

Education Programs

Two five-week summer sessions available May 29-June 29 and July 2-August 3. You may register for one or both. Sessions available from 7:30-5:30 with full and parttime schedules available. Registration begins mid-February. DimensionsEd.org or 402-476-8304. Certified Nature Explore Program. See ad page 8.

Foodie Kids

Join us for fun and educational cooking camps at Foodie Kids! Delicious weekly themes to choose from, including TV-style Championships, Farm-to-Table, Dessert Crazy, Classic Cucina, and more! We offer both morning and afternoon sessions for children ages 4.5-teen. Foodiekidslincoln.com • 6800 S. 32nd St. See ad p. 6!

Glenn Korff School of Music Camps

Show Choir Camp June 10-16 • Summer Chamber Strings Institute: Jun 10-13 • Middle School Band Camp, June 19-23 for students entering 6th grade through the end of 8th grade • Cornhusker Marching Band Camp, July 8-12 for kids entering 9th grade through end of 12th grade. Arts.unl.edu/music/camps. See ad p. 17!

Haymarket Theatre

Youth Theatre Camps

Spring & Summer Camps & Musicals: M-F, 10am-4pm, Before/after care available • Spring Break Camp (9am-4pm): Lights, Camera, Action! An intro to film making Mar 12-16 • Spring Musical: A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Deathstar Mar 24-May 12 • Summer Break Camps: Musical Theatre May 28-Jun 1; Comedy Warehouse Jun 25-29 • Summer Programs/Musicals: The Time Machine Jun 4-22; Super Academy Jul 2-20; The Addams Family Jul 23-Aug 10. Haymarkettheatre.org • 402-477-2600. See ad on page 22!

Husker Track Camp

We have camps in spring, summer & winter for all school ages. Spring Camp begins February 21st for 4th through 8th grade. Summer camps in June & July. Fun and low-key coaching in sprints, hurdles, jumps, distance & pole vault. www.Huskertrackcamp.com, 402-450-4299.

Intermix Dance Company

A “Berry Sweet Summer” begins here with dance camps & classes! Cutie Camps for ages 3-5: Unicorn Camp May 29-Jun 1 • Shake & Bake Jun 25-28 • Under the Big Top Jul 23-26. Summer Sessions for ages 2-13: Jun 4-8, Jun 11-15, Jul 9-13, & Jul 16-20. Visit intermixdance.com for registration & info. View our ad on page 11!

KidsPark

Flexible summer program that works with your schedule! Fun weekly themes. Pick your days & pay as you go. Never pay for days when you are gone & all activities are included in our hourly rates. Come as little or as much as you’d like. As always, no reservation required! Kidspark.com/lincoln/events for more info. See ad p. 6!

Lincoln Children’s Museum Camps

Week long summer camps for grades Pre-K, K-1st, 2nd-4th. Our unique camps are STEAM-based: kids explore Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, & Math through the power of play. While all camps include exclusive playtime before the Museum is open to the public, the majority of camp time is spent on the Museum’s exclusive third floor designed for making messes, friends and memories. Limited space available. LincolnChildrensMuseum.org. See our ad on page 12!

Summer Trade Program

Summer Programs

Summer Workshops

Spring Break Camp

Westminster Presbyterian Summer Fun! WestminsterLincoln.org Vacation Bible School

Rolling River Rampage!

Experience the ride of a lifetime with God!

June 17 Family Kick-Off June 18 -20, 9am -12pm Ages 4 years - 5th Grade, $30

Creative Arts Camp

Art, Crafts, Music, & Movement Explore Children’s Creativity!

July 23-27, 9am - 12pm Ages K-5th Grade, $40

2110 Sheridan Blvd • (402) 475-6702 Page 40 • LincolnKidsInc.com

LK!

SPRING & SUMMER CAMPS & PROGRAMS

{}{}

{}{} Lincoln Children’s Zoo Camps

Summer camps for all ages! • 3-4 yrs +parents: 8:45-9:45am • 4-5 yrs & 6-7 yrs: 8:30-Noon or 1:00-4:30pm, full days available • 8-10 yrs & 10-12 yrs: 8:30am-4:30pm. Various dates and camp themes offered from May 29 - August 3. Space is limited! Register at LincolnZoo.org. See the lineup on pg. 14 and read about camp on pg.15!

LUX Center for the Arts

Art Camps! Clay, pottery wheel, painting, drawing, illustration, mixed media, and STEAM art camps for youth ages 5-8, 9-12, and 13+. NEW! Full-Day Care available (8am-6pm). Spring Break Art Camps, March 12-16 • Summer Camps: June 4-Aug 10. Learn more on page 20 or www.LUXcenter.org for more info & to register NOW!

Makit Takit

Get crafty this summer at Makit Takit, Lincoln’s Craft Studio! Fun and creative half & full-day camps for ages 6+ during LPS summer break. 9am-noon • 1-4pm • or all day. Tie-dye, paint, scrapbooking, collage, mural, group projects, & more! Register online at MakitTakit.com or call 402-483-4232 for more info. Read about us on p. 22!

Morrill Hall

Half-Day Camps

Exciting hands-on camps for ages 3+! Jul 9-13: Look, Listen & Explore (3-5y + adult) • Jul 16-20: Mini & Mighty (1st-2nd grade) • July 23-27: Elephants, Dinos, and Rhinos Oh My! (2nd-3rd grade) • Jul 30-Aug 3: Naturalists (6th-8th grade). $95 members/$105 non-members. Register at museum.unl.edu/camp. See ad page 19!

My Gym

Summer Camp Program includes nonstop fun where children participate in energizing fitness games, noncompetitive gymnastics, arts and crafts, music and more. Ages 2.5-10. Visit our website for more information. MyGym.com/Lincoln. Call 402-802-9982. See our ad on page 6.

Nature Day Camps by Lincoln Parks & Rec

Camp Discovery at Pioneers Park: 9-11:30am M-Th, June 4-July 19. For children 3-6y. Half-day, week-long camps for young explorers! $90/wk. Register by one week prior. Wilderness Nature Camp at Wilderness Park: 8:30am-5pm M-F, June 11-August 3. A camp for adventurers 6-13y! $185/wk. Register by one week prior. Camps are designed to immerse children in nature and learn about the natural world around them via fun activities! Registration forms available at parks.lincoln.ne.gov • See ad on page 33!

Nebraska Writing Project Workshops

Summer Writing Workshops for ages 7y+ June 25-29 held on East Campus. Form new friendships doing what you love! “I Love to Write” 9-11 am or 11:30am-1:30pm, 7-11y, $75 • “I Love to Write2” 2-4pm, 12-14y $75 • We Love to Write (family workshop ages 7+) 6-8pm, $90. unl.edu/newp • xlove2writex@gmail.com • See page 23!

Oxbow Jr. Vet Camps

Explore a day in the life of a veterinarian! Camps available for 2-5th grade and 6-8th grade, M-Th 8am-4pm, June & July. Learn about animal behaviors & nutrition. You keep your scrubs & stethoscope! Camp dates and registration: OxbowVetCamp.com. More info: 800-249-0366, VetCamp@OxbowAnimalHealth.com. See ad p.31.

Paint Yourself Silly

Pottery painting, glass fusing, & clay projects galore! Join us for camps this summer at either store! Give us a call for more info & a brochure: (402) 486-1010. Three delightful locations! Paint Yourself Silly in the Haymarket at 7th & P • Pioneer Woods at 70th & Pioneers • South Lincoln at 14th & Pine Lake. See pg. 5 & 51!

Parks & Rec.

NFL Flag Football • Mar 27-Apr 27. Division K-1, 2-3, 4-5, & 6-8. $70/child, $65/add’l child. Register by Feb 25 @ teamsideline.com/lincolnne. Dance: Ballet & Jazz • Feb 10-Mar 17. Learn steps, balance & coordination. Ages 3-6 years. Call Calvert Rec for dance program info (402) 441-8480. See ad p.33!

Parks & Rec.

Summer day camps focus on group games, skill building & individual exploration through a wide range of activities; site-based activities and city-wide field trips. Register for just a week or the whole summer! Need-based scholarships are available. Title XX eligible. Locations include: Air Park, Belmont, Bethany Park, Calvert, ‘F’ Street, Goodrich, Irving and McPhee. Pioneers Park Nature Day Camps for ages 3+ • Wilderness Park for ages 6+. Registration forms available at: parks.lincoln.ne.gov • See our ad on page 33!

Prairie Hill

Country Day Camps

Country day camps at Nebraska’s first wind powered school! NatureWorks Camps: 1 & 2-week sessions, June-August. Ages 3-13 years. 9am-12:30pm. www.prairiehill.com • 7 miles south of Lincoln on Hwy. 77 • 402-438-6668. See our ad below!

SAC Museum

Our camps are out of this world! Children entering grades 1-6 can explore exciting themes like Aviation, Technology, Robotics, Space, Coding, Spy Camp & more! Register for one day or a combination from June 4th-August 4th. Before/aftercare, too! SACMuseum.org • 28210 W Park Hwy • 402-944-3100 x 204. See ad pg 40!

Spark Summer Learning

Explore. Play. Create! Spark is for children who have completed K-5th grade. Our engaging & exploratory STEAM curriculum includes over 20 field trips. Sign up for all 10 weeks, 4-week sessions, or weekly drop-ins! M-F 9am-4pm, FREE extended care 7-9am & 4-6pm. www.SparkSummer.org. Ad on page 18!

St. Paul’s Summer Daze

Week-long classes with weekly themes for children 4 years through 5th grade. 9am-Noon. Cost: $55 per week. “Fun All Summer!” at Saint Paul United Methodist Church! 1144 M Street. For more info email CLink@SaintPaulUMC.org or visit SaintPaulUMC.org. See our ad on page 23!

Sylvan Edge STEM Camps

Innovative camps for elementary & middle school students. Our robotics, coding, & engineering camps will motivate, inspire, & encourage creativity! Full & Half day options available. Convenient scheduling that works with your busy calendar. Call us today to learn more! 402-423-8833. SylvanLearning.com/LincolnNE. See ad p.18!

Theatre Arts For Kids

Summer Theatre Fun! Workshops include (ages in parenthesis): Director’s Training (12-18y) • Playwrite Workshop (10y+) • Total Theatre Experience (8-12y) • Rising Stars (3-8y) • Around the World in Song (7-15y) • All Ages Musical (adults, too!): Little Shop of Horrors. TAFK.org • 402-202-1087 • info@tafk.org. See ad page 21!

Trinity Lutheran Church & School

Join us for a fun-filled and exciting summer! Summer camps for children 18mos - 6th Grade • May 23 - Aug 10 • M-F, 7am - 5:45pm • No camp on Memorial Day & Independence Day. Breakfast, Lunch, & Snack provided. Weekly themes, activities, devotions, field trips & more! Call (402) 466-1800 or visit TrinityofLincoln.org.

Westminster

The Little Mermaid has splashed its way to Westminster Presbyterian Church! The Missoula Children’s Theatre has returned to put on another exciting Spring Break Drama Camp. M-F, March 12-16, 9am-3pm. Performance Saturday, March 17, 3pm. Learn more and register at www.WestminsterLincoln.org and see our ad below!

Westminster

Summer Fun at Westminster Presbyterian Church! VBS: Rolling River Rampage! Ages 4y-5th Grade. Family Kick-off June 17th, classes June 18-20, 9am-noon. Art Camp! Ages K-5th. Explore creativity with arts, crafts, music, & movement! July 23-27, 9am-noon. WestminsterLincoln.org • 402-475-6702. See ad p. 40!

Summer Day Camps

Evening Art Camps Spring Programs Summer Camps

Spring Drama Camp

Summer Camps

PRAIRIE HILL Learning Center www.prairiehill.com

(402) 438-6668

Summer Camps

Nature-centered day camp programs for children ages 6-15 & mini-camps for ages 3-6.

Westminster’s Drama Camp returns! Monday - Friday March 12-16, 2018, 9am-3pm Performance: Saturday, March 17, 2018, 3pm Missoula Children’s Theatre is returning to Westminster Presbyterian Church! For more information or to register, visit www.westminsterlincoln.org!

Various dates & themes all summer • Overnight options & pony rides, too! Spring 2018 • Page 41

LK!

birthday fun & party places Prices & Specials subject to change without notice.

susan@artaroundthecorner.net Susan • 402-560-3326 ArtAroundTheCorner.net

Let us host your art party. We do the work, and your guest take home an original art keepsake. Have an art project you want to try? We can do it. Contact us to design your party today.

Art Around the Corner

Celebrate your special day in a very special way. The ArtReach Project specializes in custom created parties that inspire imaginations in a fun, interactive studio full of creative play. Invite as many as you like but only pay for the artists! You bring the treats, we bring the fun. Party pricing begins at $150 for 12 artists.

ArtReach Project Butterfly Kisses Face Painting

www.ArtReachProect.org

402-730-7197 info@butterflykissesfacepainting.com www.ButterflyKissesFacePainting.com

Add fun sparkles & color to your party with professional face painting & glitter tattoos! Unicorn, dinosaur, fairy princess, tiger & more! So many options & so much fun!

Defy Gravity

Jump to new heights with a Defy Gravity Birthday! Your party host will take care of the details while you sit back and enjoy your child’s celebration! Experience Open Jump, Free Fall, Dunk City, pizza, drinks and more! Four party packages to choose from. Great for all ages! Contact us today!

Foodie Kids

Lots of delicious party options for Foodie Kids ages 3 & up! Several themes & styles to choose from with age-appropriate culinary activities full of flavor & fun! Our main culinary center holds up to 15 guests & our second party room seats another 10!

345 Sporting Village Drive, Ste 1 402-817-6900 DefyGravityLincoln.com 6800 S. 32nd St, Ste. B 402-261-4813 Book online! FoodieKidsLincoln.com 5633 S. 16th St. 402-413-8849 KidsPark.com/lincoln

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

KidsPark Larson

52nd & Stockwell 402-486-2525 Ucollege.edu/larson-lifestyle-center

Have your next pool party at Larson Lifestyle’s 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.

Lifestyle Center

Lincoln Children’s Museum

Lincoln Children’s Museum sets the perfect stage for a fun and memorable birthday party for your child. The Museum offers a party room for birthday festivities, hours of play in its interactive exhibits & your choice of eight fun themes. Parties start at $40. Visit LincolnChildrensMuseum.org to pick the perfect party for you.

Lincoln Children’s Zoo

Critter visits, unlimited train rides and all day fun are all included in the Ultimate Birthday Party Package at Lincoln Children’s Zoo! Packages start at only $125. Choose from the jungle themed Safari Room or the iconic Crooked House. Visit LincolnZoo.org to pick your party, select your date and reserve your room and time.

Your outdoor playland...indoors! Voted Lincoln’s Choice, “Best Place to Have a Kid’s Birthday Party” in 2012, 2013, 2014 & 2015! Indoor fun for all ages! Playsets, foam pit, inflatable jumpers, fun maze, laser maze, video games, jumping pillow, birthday party rooms & snack area. We do company parties, too!

Lost In Fun! LUX Center for the Arts

Real art taught by real artists! Guests can each build and paint their own clay mugs, bowls, or plates. Other popular projects include canvas painting, fused glass sun catchers, pop-up books, and custom projects. Pottery wheel parties are available for kids ages 10+.

Madsen’s Bowling

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

Makit Takit

SPLATTER! SLIME! PAINT! We specialize in custom craft parties for school-age kids and adults. Our space can accommodate groups from 1-25. You bring the guests & treats, we’ll handle the rest! Parties start at $150. Book online today or stop in and check out the studio!

Lincoln’s Craft Studio

Morrill Hall

CONTACT • LOCATION

FUN FEATURES!

NAME

My Gym My Tie Dye Studio Paint Yourself Silly! Pioneers Park Nature Center Swimtastic Swim School Urban Legends Art YMCA: Cooper, Fallbrook,

Northeast, & Copple Family

Page 42 • LincolnKidsInc.com

1420 P Street, Lincoln, NE 402-477-4000 LincolnChildrensMuseum.org 1222 S 27th Street 402-475-6741 www.LincolnZoo.org

8431 Cody Drive (15th & Yankee Hill) 402-261-0440 LostInFun.com 2601 N. 48th St. 402-466-8692 www.LUXcenter.org 47th & Dudley 402-467-3249 2 blks south of 48th & Holdrege 4720 Prescottt Avenue 402-483-4232 MakitTakit.com • Christy@MakitTakit.com

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

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

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

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

Host your next party at My Tie Dye Studio, where the artist is the brand! Only $10 per guest plus the cost of the item being dyed. Everyone takes home a one-of-a-kind creation! Contact Maria to schedule a party: MyTieDyeStudio@gmail.com Party-Arty at Paint Yourself Silly! Pottery painting & new clay Poof! parties— Unleash your inner artist! 3 delightful locations! 701 P St • 4101 Pioneer Woods Dr • 1501 Pine Lake Rd • PaintYourselfSilly.net Owls, snakes, bugs and the great outdoors are eager to make your child’s birthday a special one! lincoln.ne.gov/city/parks/naturecenter/birthdays.htm Swimtastic Swim School takes the stress out of party planning & replaces it with 2 hours of fun for the whole family! Become a mermaid or a pirate for a day with our themed parties or enjoy a get-together in the warm water pool! Parties include private use of the indoor pool, tie-dye t-shirt for the birthday child, invitations, paper products, balloons, family swim passes for each attendee, set up and tear down! Call or click to register!

Bring out your child’s inner artist with a creative, 2-hour birthday party & leave with a masterpiece! * Canvas Art * String Art * Collage * Water Color * Ceramics * and a 3-tier punch fountain! Only $15/child. We offer adult parties, too! 402.470.0331 UrbanLegendsArtClasses@gmail.com

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 YMCALincoln.org

3859 South St. facebook.com/mytiedyestudio 402-580-3250 701 P St. • 402-474-1010 4101 Pioneer Woods Dr. • 402-486-1010 1501 Pine Lake Rd. • 402-423-1030

West end of Pioneers Park 402-441-7895 parks.lincoln.ne.gov/naturecenter 7911 Pioneers Blvd 402-489-7946 Swimtastic.com 2632 N 48th St. 402-470-0331 UrbanLegendsArt.com Cooper - 6767 S. 14th St. 402-323-6400 Fallbrook - 700 Penrose Dr. 402-323-6444 Northeast - 2601 N. 70th 402-434-9262 Copple Family - 8700 Yankee Woods Dr 402-327-0037

LK!

Children’s Lessons & Activities NAME

CONTACT • LOCATION

INSTRUCTION

PROGRAM

Piano

Private lessons include theory classes with ensembles and performance opportunities. Group lessons available for beginners. Ages 4–adult. References Available. Call for info or to interview.

Art Academy Lincoln

Art Lessons

Come create with us! Private hourly art lessons - ages 4 & up. Classes are structured around students’ interests, art theory/appreciation. Drawing, painting, printmaking, pottery, sculpture, graffiti, & upcycling will be explored!

5921 Berkeley Drive (402) 499-7754 ArtAcademyLincoln.com

Art Around the Corner

Art Lessons

Join a fun Art Program in our neighborhood studio just around the corner. Includes: pick up from Sheridan, escorted walking group, snack, sketchbook, art history lesson, instruction from a 20+ year artist & teacher, and all supplies.

2129 Winthrop Road 402-560-3326 ArtAroundTheCorner.net

Art Classes

Creativity with a cause is our specialty. Not your typical art studio, we specialize in creating not just art but artists with our focus on giving back to the community. Each student receives personal attention and is carefully mentored as they mature. We have weekly classes for kids in preschool through middle school with a volunteer program for teens/adults.

Guitar, Piano Violin, & more!

Guitar, Bass, Piano, Dobro, Lap Steel, Mandolin, Banjo, Violin, Ukulele and Voice instruction for all ages. Fun, positive learning environment. Reduced rate guitar & Ukulele classes for kids ages 5-9. BlueRavenMusic.com

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

Competitive Edge Sports

Wrestling, Gymnastics, Jiu Jitsu

CES • Competitive Edge Sports • Lincoln’s Premier Athletic Training Facility Group & individual wrestling classes for ages 3-18, Gymnastics for ages 3-10, & Martial Arts for ages 8 to adult. We’re Nebraska’s #1 Brazilian Jiu Jitsu team!

2350 Judson St 402-404-5510 LincolnEdge.com

Harris Academy of the Arts

Music Lessons

Larson Lifestyle Center

Swimming Classes

A fun, healthy way to meet new friends, learn water safety, and gain confidence in water—and in life! We offer year-round lessons for youth & adults ages 3+ & a seasonal infant class. All levels are welcome to enjoy our warm-water pool!

52nd & Stockwell 402-486-2525 Ucollege.edu/larson-lifestyle-center

Lincoln Boys Choir

Vocal Ensemble

Auditions are now open for boys ages 8-18 years! Schedule a time to try out for Cantare, Chorale, or Concert Choir. Along with vocal education, we enrich our singers with fellowship & life skills. Rehearsal, performance, & travel included. Membership requires tuition & uniform.

402-499-4446 LincolnBoysChoir.org

Lincoln Irish Dancers

Kids’ Ceili Dance Classes

Kids Classes ages 8-11, Mondays from 5:30-6pm beginning Apr 2. $15/ 5-wk session. Class size limited. Pre-registration required. Lincolnirishdancers.org/home-2/classes-2

First Presbyterian, 840 S.17th St LincolnIrishDancers.org lincolnirishdancers@gmail.com

Lincoln Irish Dancers

Intro to Irish Dance Classes

Classes for ages 12 & up, Mondays from 6-7pm beginning Apr 2. $30/ 5-wk session. Class size limited. Pre-registration required. Lincolnirishdancers.org/home-2/classes-2

First Presbyterian, 840 S.17th St LincolnIrishDancers.org lincolnirishdancers@gmail.com

Lincoln Music Teachers Association

Music Lessons

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

LUX Center for the Arts

Art Classes

Real art taught by real artists! High quality art classes, camps, and private lessons for youth and adults. Popular topics include clay, painting, drawing, metals, and more! Small class sizes for personalized learning.

Dance

Ballet, Pointe, Jazz, Tap, Lyrical, Hip-Hop and 2-Gether. Studio directed by Melissa Prettyman Meranda, B.A. in Dance. Come and experience your child’s passion for dance!

My Gym

Gymnastics & Sports Skills

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

Nissa’s String Studio

Violin, Viola, Guitar, Piano, Cello, & more!

Bring your kids to a place where music is learned, not taught. All-inclusive membership, with no contracts or surprise fees. Three yearly recitals. Relax in our modern waiting area during your kid’s lesson! Home of community-based Spitfire Fiddle Band. Call today to get enrolled.

8535 Executive Woods Dr, Ste 100 (near S.14th & Yankee Hill Rd) 402-440-1473 StringStudio.com

Dance

Core curriculum for technique-based excellence in Ballet, Pointe, Jazz, Tap, Lyrical, Hip hop, Musical Theater, Acting for Dancers, Tumbling, & more! Large class selection ages 2-adult. Studio features both a competitive company and pre-professional program.

1233 Arapahoe St Suite 100 402-937-0678 www.dancepdt.com

Swimming Lessons

Experience the Swimtastic Difference! Swimtastic Swim School offers small class sizes with individualized attention, warm 90° water, professional and passionate instructors, family first convenience, exceptional curriculum, and unparalleled customer service! Call or check out our website to register.

Spanish Classes for Ages 3-10

Learn a new language through highly engaging activities, stories, games, music & more. With TLP´s innovate programs, 100% immersion = 100% FUN!

Alice Bowen

ArtReach Project Blue Raven Music Studios

Ages 8-11

Ages 12 & Up

Motions Dance Academy

Piccoli Dance Theatre Swimtastic Swim School The Language Project

2501 S. 20th St. 402-435-0386

www.ArtReachProject.org

2935 Pine Lake Rd (across from South Pointe Mall) 402-423-7121 HarrisAcademyoftheArts.com

www.LMTA.info 2601 N. 48th St. 402-466-8692 www.LUXcenter.org 8200 Cody Dr., Suite L (1 block N of 14th & Yankee Hill) 402-420-0579 www.motionsdance.net

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

7911 Pioneers Blvd 402-489-7946 Swimtastic.com 402-419-8983 info@languageprojectkids.com www.languageprojectkids.com

Email karla@lincolnkidsinc.com for info on directory advertising. Spring 2018 • Page 43

LK!

little ones activities

Fun group activities geared towards infants & toddlers

NAME

CONTACT • LOCATION

PROGRAM Get creative together with your toddler! Bring your little artist, up to age 5, to Gateway Mall on Thursday mornings from 9:30-11am. Join us at The ArtReach Project to explore carefully planned art stations, creative learning activities, and a teacher-guided art project! (Locally inspired fun with Live 360 program)

Art Babies Kindermusik

6100 O Street 402-464-3196 shoppinggatewaymall.com 2935 Pine Lake Rd (across from So. Pointe Mall) 402-423-7121 HarrisAcademyOfTheArts.com

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.

Harris Academy of the Arts

Mud Club

LUX Center for the Arts

Drop-in family clay class meets every Saturday at 9am through the end of March! Toddlers & children ages 2+ will work with clay to learn, explore, & get messy! In 45-minutes, students quickly immerse themselves in hands-on art-making. Only $8/person or $6 when you buy a punch card!

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

My Gym

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

2755 Jamie Lane, Suite 4 (near S 27th & Yankee Hill Road) 402-802-9982

Pioneers Park Nature Center Pop-In Storytime Morrill Hall

Preschool Paint & Story Time

MyGym.com/Lincoln

3201 S. Coddington (West end of Pioneers Park)

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

parks.lincoln.ne.gov/naturecenter

Pop-into the museum for storytime with Lincoln City Libraries on the first Thursday of each month at 4pm. Through stories, songs, and movement we’ll learn more about the natural world. Regular museum admission. Museum members attend for free.

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

402-441-7895

4101 Pioneer Woods Drive, Ste 106 (70th & Pioneers) 402-486-1010

Themed book + art project for 2½-5 year-olds at Paint Yourself Silly’s Pioneer Woods Location Every Thursday at 10:30am! About $10-15/session. No registration necessary, just come on by!

PaintYourselfSilly.net

Want your Center or Program listed here? Email karla@lincolnkidsinc.com

Child Care & Education Centers NAME

AREA OF TOWN

PROGRAM

CONTACT • LOCATION

Academic Advantage

Child Development Center

East South

Educational childcare facility offering care for ages 6 weeks to 12 years. Also accepting students for summer programs, as well as Fall school transportation to these schools: Kahoa, Pyrtle, Meadowlane, Calvert, Humann, Zeman, Maxey, Hill, Cavett, Wysong, and Adams. Visit our website for more info: www.AACDC.com

8215 Northwoods, Ste. 100, 402-465-4769 6021 S. 56th Street, 402-420-5440 7301 S. 15th Street, 402-421-7301

Bluestem Montessori

East

Urban Montessori! Currently accepting grades K-3, and will expand one grade per year through 6th grade. Openings available for immediate enrollment.

6300 A Street 206-450-9861 www.bluestemmontessori.com

Preschool

South

Our preschool program is focused on music, art, and other fun early childhood activities to help support the learning and development of children ages 3-5.

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

CEDARS

North Central

Focusing on school readiness, we offer secure, nurturing environments to children ages 6wks–12yrs. Includes before & after school programs at Clinton & Hartley Schools. Programs are accredited by the Council on Accreditation (COA) &/or the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). Childcare subsidy accepted. Call to enroll today!

East Central

Opening Fall 2018. Quality early education program for children 6 weeks-preschool. Visit Dimensionsed.org for information & online forms.

Central

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

South

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

Northeast

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

Calvert Rec Center

Dimensions

Education Programs at 7700 A St.

Dimensions

Education Programs at First-Plymouth

Dual Language Preschool

Fingerprints

Child Development Center

Page 44 • LincolnKidsInc.com

402-434-KIDS (5437) CedarsKids.org 7700 A Street 402-476-8304 www.DimensionsEd.org Located in First-Plymouth Church, 20th & D 402-476-8304 www.DimensionsEd.org Irving Rec Center, 2010 Van Dorn, 402-441-7954 parks.lincoln.ne.gov 7800 Holdrege 402-467-4503 CapitolCity.org

LK!

Child Care & Education Centers NAME

AREA OF TOWN

PROGRAM

Northwest

Child Development & Family Resource Center. Ages 6 weeks–12 years. Full time Care. Preschool Curriculum.

South

Hourly childcare. Fully licensed, no reservations required! Ages 1.5-11 years. Hours: Mon-Thu: 7:30am-10pm. Fri: 7:30am-Midnight. Sat: 10am-Midnight. Sun: 1pm-6pm. Pick your days for our flexible preschool program & summer camps!

Krayon Campus

Central

Child development center that cares for your child’s individual needs. Ages 6 weeks–12 years. Curriculum based. Nutritious hot meals. Transportation to LPS area schools. Open Mon–Fri, 6am-6pm.

Lincoln Christian

South

Academic Christian preschool providing excellent early childhood education grounded in Biblical truth. Attend 2, 3, or 5 half-day sessions per week. Both AM and PM available. Check out our website!

Northeast

Full and part-time licensed childcare for ages 6 weeks to 13 years. Open 6am-6pm, M-F. Warm meals served daily and Title XX welcome.

West

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

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

Far South

Ages 18 mo-8th grade. Open 7am-6pm. Care of farm animals, close to nature, family atmosphere. Certified Montessori Teachers.

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

East

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

The Child’s View

South

Open 7:15am to 5:30pm. Ages 18 months to 6 years. Part time or full time. Certified Montessori Teachers.

Trinity Lutheran School

Northeast

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

True Knowledge Preschool

South

A new premier preschool in Lincoln! We offer a fun & exciting academic approach that will prepare your 3-5 year-old for Kindergarten & beyond. Small classroom sizes. Engaging teacher. Contact us today to learn more!

Westminster

South

NAEYC accredited Christian program for ages 3-5. Rated (5) for Step Up to Quality. Five different AM & PM classes plus all day classes from 9am-3pm. Extended care 7:30-9am & 3-5:30pm. School year and summer classes available.

Southeast

Ages 6 weeks–12 years. Preschool curriculum beginning at age one. Before and after school care. A Step up to Quality Program. Open 6:30am–6:00pm. Sign language, soccer, dance, & taekwondo lessons available.

Highlands Academy KidsPark

Preschool

Northeast Family Center Early Learning Center

Pioneers Park Nature Center Preschool

Prairie Hill

Learning Center A Montessori School

Prairieview Preschool

Montessori

Preschool

World of Knowledge

Child Development Center and Preschool

CONTACT • LOCATION

Teaching, nurturing, and developing the future...

5633 S. 16th St. Ste. 100 402-413-8849 KidsPark.com 6001 Normal Blvd. 402-486-4847 KrayonCampus.com 5801 S. 84th St. 402-488-8888 x 252 LincolnChristian.org/Preschool 6220 Logan Ave. 402-471-3700 nfclincoln.org

143rd “O” St. 402-488-0012 Kitra Deger-Director 3341 Pioneers Blvd. 402-484-8277 www.thechildsviewmontessori.com 1200 North 56th Street 402-466-1800 www.trinitylcms-lincoln.com

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

Westminster Presbyterian Church 2110 Sheridan Blvd. • WPSLincoln.org 402-475-6702 ext 103 8310 Wendell Way 402-483-4769 WorldOfKnowledgeNE.com

Now Enrolling for 2018-19 6wks–12 yrs

one child at a time. 8215 NORTHWOODS, STE #100

402-465-4769

We have summer programs too!

5901 NW 1st Street 402-476-2223 highlandsacademy.com

7301 S. 15TH ST.

402-421-7301

6021 S. 56TH ST.

402-420-5440 WWW.AACDC.COM

Monday-Friday 6:30am–6:00pm Video Surveillance & Secure Entry Year-Round Preschool

Children enjoy a developmental learning program in a safe, nurturing environment with a small 1:8 teacher-to-student ratio. Art, stories, songs, large motor activities and learning centers allow children to grow spiritually, emotionally, socially, physically and intellectually. AM Classes: 9am–12pm • PM Classes: 9am-3pm • Pre-K: 9 am-3 pm • Extended care avail. Nationally Accredited NAEYC Program

Quality-Rated NE Step Up To Quality

Director Suzanne Schneider: 402-475-6702 ext. 103 suzanne@westminsterlincoln.org • wpslincoln.org Conveniently located at 2110 Sheridan Blvd. Spring 2018 • Page 45

LK!

FEBRUARY 2018 ZODIAC: Aquarius Jan 20 - Feb 18 • Pisces Feb 19 - Mar 20 GEMSTONE: Amethyst FLOWER: Violet, Primrose TREE: Cypress, Poplar, Cedar, Pine

HOLIDAYS & OBSERVANCES • Feb 2: Groundhog Day • Feb 4: R osa Parks’ Birthday; Superbowl Sunday • Feb 12: Abraham Lincoln’s Birthday; Charles Darwin’s Birthday • Feb 13: Maha Shivaratri; Mardi Gras/Fat Tuesday • Feb 14: Ash Wednesday; Valentine’s Day • Feb 15: Susan B. Anthony Day (bday) • Feb 16: Chinese New Year • Feb 17: Random Acts of Kindess Day • Feb 19: President’s Day; Nicolas Copernicus’ Birthday • Feb 22: Int’l World Thinking Day • Feb 28: Purim begins (at sundown) F REE Weekly Library events happening at each of our city libraries. See schedule at LincolnLibraries.org. Baby, toddler, preschool, youth, preteen, & teen. Follow on FB for updates! F REE Daily Admission to Pioneers Park Nature Center, 8:30am-5pm Mon-Sat, 12-5pm Sun. Prairie exhibits & animal displays. parks.lincoln. ne.gov/naturecenter. Morrill Hall Temporary Exhibits: 0-4y Free, 5-18y $3, 19y+ $6; Family Pass $13; Members FREE; Memberships begin at $50 • Guts & Glory thru June 2018 • Nano opens February 8 (read about it on pg. 19!) EVERY MONDAY • Toddler Time at Defy Gravity, 10am-2pm, $5 for ages 5 & under + $5 (1)adult. If they can walk, they can jump! 60min pass. DefyGravityLincoln.com. • $11.99 Unlimited Jumping at Defy Gravity, 4-9pm. Details online at defygravitylincoln.com. EVERY TUESDAY • FREE Admission at Spring Creek Prairie Audubon Center, Denton, Trails are open sunrise to sunset, Visitor’s Center hours 9am-5pm. • FREE Storytime at Indigo Bridge Books & Cafe, 10-11am. Storytime + activities! IndigoBridgeBooks.com. • Family Night at Defy Gravity, $29.99 for (4) 60min jump passes, 4-9pm. Value of $52. Add’l family member just $5. DefyGravityLincoln.com. • FREE Pre-School Play Club at Calvert Rec Center, 4500 Stockwell, 6-7pm. Music & sports for preschoolers of all abilities. Learn more on pg. 10. EVERY THURSDAY • Art Babies at The ArtReach Project, Gateway Mall, every Thursday from 9:30-11am, $8. For children ages 5 & under. Artreachproject.org. • Preschool Paint & Storytime at Paint Yourself Silly, 70th & Pioneers, Thursdays at 10:30am. Paintyourselfsilly.net. • FREE Admission at Morrill Hall, Thursday nights in February, 4:30-8pm. Museum.unl.edu. EVERY FRIDAY • Toddler Time at Defy Gravity, 10am-2pm, $5 for ages 5 & under + $5 (1)adult. If they can walk, they can jump! 60min pass. DefyGravityLincoln.com. EVERY SATURDAY • Mud Club at LUX Center for the Arts, 2601 N 48th, every Saturday from 9-9:45am, $8 ($6 w/ punch card). For children ages 2+ and their adult. Explore art with clay! LUXcenter.org. • FREE Bilingual Storytime at Indigo Bridge Books & Cafe, 10-11am. Storytime + activities! IndigoBridgeBooks.com. • FREE Hyde Memorial Observatory, Holmes Lake, 7-10pm. HydeObservatory. info.

Page 46 • LincolnKidsInc.com

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1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1 • Homeschool Days at SAC Museum, 28210 W Park Hwy (Ashland), 1st Thurs, 1pm, $7. “Children of WWII” Pre-reg. SACMuseum.org. • Pop In Storytime w/ Lincoln City Libraries at Morrill Hall, 645 N. 14th, 6:30-7pm. “Lions & Tigers & Bears.” Museum.unl.edu. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 2 • Father-Daughter Dance at Cooper YMCA, 6:30-8:30pm, $7/member, $15/non. Includes keepsake photo. YMCALincoln.org. • Family Night at Lincoln Children’s Museum, Open late 5- 7:30pm, 1st Fridays. lincolnchildrensmuseum.org. Regular admission. • Pajama Night at Paint Yourself Silly in the Haymarket, 1st Fridays ’til midnight, $3. Includes milk & cookies! Paintyourselfsilly.net. SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 3 • FREE Reading with Pups at Gateway Mall, 6100 O st, 9-10am. 1st Saturdays. Interactive storytime with animals. Shoppinggatewaymall. com. • Dinosaurs & Disasters! at Morrill Hall, 9:30am-4:30pm. Exciting hands-on activities & demonstrations. museum.unl.edu. • Outdoor Adventures with EnvironMentors at Gateway Mall, 10am-4pm. Bringing outdoor adventures inside with animal ID & Geohunting! • Art Class with Pioneers Park Nature Center, 1:30-3:30pm, $13. “Drawing Birds” Learn the basics with artist Glenda Dietrich Moore. Designed for adults & kids 3rd grade & older. parks.lincoln.ne.gov/naturecenter. SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 4 • Outdoor Adventures with EnvironMentors at Gateway Mall, 12-4pm. Bringing outdoor adventures inside with animal ID & Geohunting! THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 8 • FREE Admission to Morrill Hall from 4:30-8pm • FREE Natural Wellness Class by The Oily Rx, 2nd Thurs. Learn about natural wellness & essential oils. FREE Sleepytime Roller for attending. See ad on page 31. Details at TheOilyRx.com or email Hello@TheOilyRx.com. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 9 • Sandhill Crane Trip with Lincoln Parks & Rec - FINAL DAY TO REGISTER. Tour is March 9, $85pp, includes travel, dinner, and viewing blind. parks.lincoln.ne.gov. • FREE IndiExplore for Kids at Indigo Bridge Books & Cafe, 2nd Fridays, 10-11am. Activities & readings on interesting topics for curious minds. IndigoBridgeBooks.com. • Chocolate Lover’s Fantasy at Embassy Suites, 7-10pm, benefiting the Historic Haymarket.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 10 • Get Smart Saturdays at SAC Museum, 28210 W Park Hwy (Ashland), 10-11am, $7. “I Love Robotics.” Space limited. Register 3+ days in advance. SACMuseum.org. • Investigate: Second Saturday Science Lab at Morrill Hall, 10am-12pm. “Math & Music.” Museum.unl.edu. • Valentine’s Day Workshop at Foodie Kids, 6800 S. 32nd St., 10:30-11:30am or 12-1pm, $30. Ages 3+ w/adult or drop-off. Decorate a giant heart cookie, make Cupid’s arrow fruit kabobs & pink lemonade. foodiekidslincoln.com, 402-261-4813. • FREE Kids Fit Club w/Fit4Lincoln at Gateway Mall playspace, 6100 O st, 11-11:40am. 2nd Saturdays. • Swing Under the Wings at SAC Museum, 6pm. Dress up in your ‘40s finest and swing the night away. Dinner, drinks, desserts, prizes, and contests! Tickets required. SACMuseum.org. • Father-Daughter Dance at Northeast YMCA, 6:30-8:30pm, $7/member, $15/non. Includes keepsake photo. YMCALincoln.org. SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 11 • FREE Lunar New Year Celebration at Bennett Martin Library, 2:30-4:30pm. lincolnlibraries.org. • FREE Valentine’s Day Card Making Party by Cards for Seniors at Sheridan Lutheran Church, 4-6pm. Come make cards for seniors in assisted living facilities & nursing homes. All supplies provided. WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 14 • Don’t Forget! KidsPark’s hassle-free drop-andgo child care is there for you for your date night— or for days, weekends, evenings...whenever you need them! Convenient hours and fun daily themes. Visit Kidspark.com/lincoln for details! THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 15 • FREE Admission to Morrill Hall from 4:30-8pm • Dodgeball Tournament at Defy Gravity, 6-8pm. Teams of 4, $10pp. Advanced registration recommended. Space limited. 402-817-6900 x2. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 16 • FREE Great Backyard Bird Count at Spring Creek Prairie Audubon Center, Denton, 10am12pm. Bird walk + activities. Springcreekprairie. audubon.org. • Little Ladies Date Night at LCM, 6-8pm. Get dolled up and spend the evening with your little lady! LincolnChildrensMuseum.org for details. SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 17 • Nebraska Robotics Expo at SAC Museum, 8:30am-3:30pm. SACMuseum.org. • Great Backyard Bird Count at Pioneers Park Nature Center, Chet Ager bldg, 9-11am, $5 sug. don. Register by Feb 14. parks.lincoln.ne.gov/

FEBRUARY IS... FEBRERO • Spanish FÉVRIER • French FEBRUAR • German FEBBRAIO • Italian • African American History Month • American Heart Month • National Cherry Month • Nat’l Children’s Dental Health Month • National Grapefruit Month

naturecenter. • FREE Great Backyard Bird Count at Spring Creek Prairie Audubon Center, Denton, 10am12pm. Bird walk + activities. Springcreekprairie. audubon.org. SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 18 • Sunday with a Scientist at Morrill Hall, 12:304:30pm. “Big Science, Small Scale” featuring the new Nano exhibit! Museum.unl.edu. • FREE Great Backyard Bird Count at Spring Creek Prairie Audubon Center, Denton, 1pm workshop on eBird. Springcreekprairie.audubon. org. TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 20 • FREE Family Game Night at Indigo Bridge Books & Cafe, 6-8pm. Bring a game or play what’s here! IndigoBridgeBooks.com. THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 22 • FREE Admission to Morrill Hall from 4:30-8pm • Home Seminar for those considering homeownership, 6-7:30pm, by SecurityFirst at Gateway Mall Live 360, 6100 O St. Preperation and buying tips, tricks, do’s & don’ts. SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 24 • Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day at Innovation Campus, 9am-12pm, $3. Grades 3-12. Registration required. Tickets at LincolnChildrensMuseum.com. • FREE Open Mic Night at the Food Court in Gateway Mall, 6100 O St, 6-9pm. Last Saturdays. Local entertainment! • FREE Teen Night at Downtown YMCA. Last Saturdays, 7-10:30pm. Non-members welcome! FREE! YMCALincoln.org. WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 28 • Early Bird Discount ENDS for Haymarket Theatre Spring Musical registration. “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Death Star”. Last day to save $25! Haymarkettheatre.org.

Follow us on Face b ook for updat e s a n d new events! C alender Listings are FREE! Submit yours at LincolnKid sIn c.com.

LK!

MARCH 2018 ZODIAC: Pisces Feb 19 - Mar 20 • Aries Mar 21 - Apr 19 GEMSTONE: Aquamarine FLOWER: Daffodil TREE: Weeping Willow, Lime, Oak, Hazelnut

HOLIDAYS & OBSERVANCES • Mar 1: Purim ends (at sundown); Holi begins • Mar 2: Holi ends; Dr. Seuss’ Birthday; Read Across America Day • Mar 3: National Anthem Day • Mar 8: International Women’s Day • Mar 11: Daylight Savings Begins • Mar 14: National Pi Day • Mar 17: St. Patrick’s Day • Mar 20: First Day of Spring/Equinox; Int’l Day of Happiness • Mar 21: World Down Syndrome Day • Mar 25: Palm Sunday • Mar 30: Good Friday; Passover begins (PM) • Mar 31: Holy Saturday F REE Weekly Library events happening at each of our city libraries. See schedule at LincolnLibraries.org. Baby, toddler, preschool, youth, preteen, & teen. Follow on FB for updates! F REE Daily Admission to Pioneers Park Nature Center, 8:30am-5pm Mon-Sat, 12-5pm Sun. Prairie exhibits & animal displays. parks.lincoln. ne.gov/naturecenter. Morrill Hall Temporary Exhibits: 0-4y Free, 5-18y $3, 19y+ $6; Family Pass $13; Members FREE; Memberships begin at $50 • Guts & Glory thru June 2018 • Nano (read about it on pg. 19!) EVERY MONDAY • Toddler Time at Defy Gravity, 10am-2pm, $5 for ages 5 & under + $5 (1)adult. If they can walk, they can jump! 60min pass. DefyGravityLincoln.com. • $11.99 Unlimited Jumping at Defy Gravity, 4-9pm. Details online at defygravitylincoln.com. EVERY TUESDAY • FREE Admission at Spring Creek Prairie Audubon Center, Denton, Trails are open sunrise to sunset, Visitor’s Center hours 9am-5pm. • FREE Storytime at Indigo Bridge Books & Cafe, 10-11am. Storytime + activities! IndigoBridgeBooks.com. • Family Night at Defy Gravity, $29.99 for (4) 60min jump passes, 4-9pm. Value of $52. Add’l family member just $5. DefyGravityLincoln.com. • FREE Pre-School Play Club at Calvert Rec Center, 4500 Stockwell, 6-7pm. Music & sports for preschoolers of all abilities. Learn more on pg. 10. EVERY THURSDAY • Art Babies at The ArtReach Project, Gateway Mall, every Thursday from 9:30-11am, $8. For children ages 5 & under. Artreachproject.org. • Preschool Paint & Storytime at Paint Yourself Silly, 70th & Pioneers, Thursdays at 10:30am. Paintyourselfsilly.net. EVERY FRIDAY • Toddler Time at Defy Gravity, 10am-2pm, $5 for ages 5 & under + $5 (1)adult. If they can walk, they can jump! 60min pass. DefyGravityLincoln.com. EVERY SATURDAY • Mud Club at LUX Center for the Arts, 2601 N 48th, every Saturday from 9-9:45am, $8 ($6 w/ punch card). For children ages 2+. Explore art with clay! LUXcenter.org. • FREE Bilingual Storytime at Indigo Bridge Books & Cafe, 10-11am. Storytime + activities! IndigoBridgeBooks.com. • FREE Hyde Memorial Observatory, Holmes Lake, 7-11pm. HydeObservatory.info.

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1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 THURSDAY, MARCH 1 • Homeschool Days at SAC Museum, 28210 W Park Hwy (Ashland), 1st Thurs, 1pm, $7. “Moon Madness” Pre-reg. SACMuseum.org. • Pop In Storytime w/ Lincoln City Libraries at Morrill Hall, 645 N. 14th, 6:30-7pm. “Sandhill Cranes.” Museum.unl.edu. FRIDAY, MARCH 2 • Family Night at Lincoln Children’s Museum, Open late 5- 7:30pm, 1st Fridays. lincolnchildrensmuseum.org. Regular admission. • Pajama Night at Paint Yourself Silly in the Haymarket, 1st Fridays ’til midnight, $3. Includes milk & cookies! Paintyourselfsilly.net. • Moonrise Hike with Pioneers Park Nature Center, 6:30-8pm, $8. Guided evening hike, may not be suitable for small children. Register by Feb 28. parks.lincoln.ne.gov/naturecenter SATURDAY, MARCH 3 • FREE Reading with Pups at Gateway Mall, 6100 O st, 9-10am. 1st Saturdays. Interactive storytime with animals. Special giveaways (while supplies last)! Shoppinggatewaymall.com. • The Jungle Book Kids, a performance by Theatre Arts for Kids, 4 & 6 pm. TAFK.org. SUNDAY, MARCH 4 • FREE LK! Birthday Bash at KidsPark, 14th & Old Cheney, 9am-noon. Free family festival with locally-sponsored activity stations, birthday treats, and tons of giveaways! For families with children ages 0-12+. LincolnKidsInc.com. See pages 3 & 7! • Carnival of the Animals with Lincoln Symphony Orchestra at Wesleyan University, 2pm. Shadow puppets + music. LincolnSymphony.com. THURSDAY, MARCH 8 • OPENING DAY AT LINCOLN CHILDREN’S ZOO! 10am-5pm daily. LincolnZoo.org. • Hairspray, Jr. a performance by Haymarket Theatre, 7pm. Haymarkettheatre.org. • FREE Natural Wellness Class by The Oily Rx, 2nd Thurs. Learn about natural wellness & essential oils. FREE Sleepytime Roller for attending. See ad on page 31. Details at TheOilyRx.com or email Hello@TheOilyRx.com. FRIDAY, MARCH 9 • FREE IndiExplore for Kids at Indigo Bridge Books & Cafe, 2nd Fridays, 10-11am. Activities & readings on interesting topics for curious minds. IndigoBridgeBooks.com. • Hairspray, Jr. a performance by Haymarket Theatre, 7pm. Haymarkettheatre.org. SATURDAY, MARCH 10 • Get Smart Saturdays at SAC Museum, 28210 W Park Hwy (Ashland), 10-11am, $7. “Spring Fling.” Space limited. Register 3+ days in advance. SACMuseum.org.

• Investigate: Second Saturday Science Lab at Morrill Hall, 10am-12pm. “The Science of Ewww.” Museum.unl.edu. • SuperHero Day at LCM, 10am-1pm. Grab your cap and come play & take pics with dozens of superheros! LincolnChildrensMuseum.org. • FREE Kids Fit Club w/Fit4Lincoln at Gateway Mall playspace, 6100 O st, 11-11:40am. 2nd Saturdays. Kids who attend today’s Fit Club will receive a FREE tshirt. Wear that tshirt to future Fit Club session to receive more prizes (while supplies last)! • Hairspray, Jr. a performance by Haymarket Theatre, 2 & 7pm. Haymarkettheatre.org. SUNDAY, MARCH 11 • Daylight Savings! Spring forward at 2am! • Sunday with a Scientist at Morrill Hall, 12:304:30pm. “Seeing the Invisible” featuring the new Nano exhibit! Museum.unl.edu. • 20th Annual Community Ceili by Lincoln Irish Dancers, 6:30-9pm, Auld Pavilion, Antelope Park. The whole family can enjoy the Ceili (Irish social dance & gathering) with dance instruction at 5:30, snacks, and a silent auction. LincolnIrishDancers.org. TUESDAY, MARCH 13 • Spring Break Shows at Mueller Planetarium, Morrill Hall; “One World, One Sky” at 11am, “Supervolcanoes” at 12pm. Museum.unl.edu. WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14 • Spring Break Shows at Mueller Planetarium, Morrill Hall; “One World, One Sky” at 11am, “Supervolcanoes” at 12pm. Museum.unl.edu. THURSDAY, MARCH 15 • Spring Break Shows at Mueller Planetarium, Morrill Hall; “One World, One Sky” at 11am, “Supervolcanoes” at 12pm. Museum.unl.edu. FRIDAY, MARCH 16 • Early Bird Pricing ENDS for LCM Summer Camps. FINAL DAY for discount pricing. Save $20/camp! lincolnchildrensmuseum.org. • Spring Break Shows at Mueller Planetarium, Morrill Hall; “One World, One Sky” at 11am, “Supervolcanoes” at 12pm. Museum.unl.edu. SATURDAY, MARCH 17 • Down Syndrome Advocates in Action Mall Walk, Center Court in Gateway Mall, 6100 O St, 9am. Awareness walk and family activities. • Bunny Arrival at Gateway Mall, 10am. E.B. Bunny will parade Center Court and take photos! Photos available Mar 17-31. • Saturday with our Naturalist at Pioneers Park Nature Center, 3rd Saturdays, 2-3pm. Guided discovery hike (dress according to weather). $5pp. Register by the Wednesday prior. (402) 441-7895, parks.lincoln.ne.gov/naturecenter.

Follow us o n Fa cebook for u p d ates and new e vents! Calender Listings are FREE! S u bmit yours at Lin coln KidsInc.com.

MARCH IS... MARZO • Spanish MARS • French MÄRZ • German MARZO • Italian • American Red Cross Month • Development Disabilities Awareness Month • Music in Our Schools Month • National Craft Month • Nat’l Irish-American Heritage Month • National Nutrition Month • National Women’s History Month TUESDAY, MARCH 20 • FREE Family Game Night at Indigo Bridge Books & Cafe, 6-8pm. Bring a game or play what’s here! IndigoBridgeBooks.com. THURSDAY, MARCH 22 • Kidz Closet Spring Consignment Sale by UMC, 12th & M St, 10am-7pm. Consign & shop quality kids & maternity clothing, toys, gear, & more! KidzCloset.org. FRIDAY, MARCH 23 • Kidz Closet Spring Consignment Sale by UMC, 12th & M St, 10am-6pm. Consign & shop quality kids & maternity clothing, toys, gear, & more! KidzCloset.org. SATURDAY, MARCH 24 • FREE! Grand Opening for Genesis Photography’s new studio in Cortland, 10am-2pm. Lots of fun and photos. Follow on FB for updates! • Live Happy Day of Happiness at Center Court, Gateway Mall, 6100 O St, 10am-6pm. Dance, crafts, learning, and joy. • Kidz Closet Spring Consignment Sale by UMC, 12th & M St, 10am-7pm. Consign & shop quality kids & maternity clothing, toys, gear, & more! KidzCloset.org. • Fulldome Festival at Mueller Planetarium, Morrill Hall. 11am Larry Cat in Space, 12pm Oceans in Space, 1pm Light Years from Andromeda, 2pm Cowboy Astronomer, 3pm Voyager Encounters. For ages 4 & up. Museum. unl.edu. • SPAYghetti & No Balls fundraiser for Lincoln Animal Ambassadors at Unitarian Church, 6300 A st, 6pm, dinner at 6:30, $25. Includes dinner & a speaker. lincolnanimalambassadors.org/snb, 402817-1168, info@lincolnanimalambassadors.org. SUNDAY, MARCH 25 • Kidz Closet Spring Consignment Sale by UMC, 12th & M St, 10am-2pm. Consign & shop quality kids & maternity clothing, toys, gear, & more! KidzCloset.org. SATURDAY, MARCH 31 • Breakfast with the Easter Bunny at Lincoln Children’s Zoo. Details TBA. Check LincolnZoo. org. • FREE Wild Adventures Spring Festival at Pioneers Park Nature Center, 10am-1pm. Games, crafts, booths, food vendors, and more! parks.lincoln.ne.gov/naturecenter • FREE Open Mic Night at the Food Court in Gateway Mall, 6100 O St, 6-9pm. Last Saturdays. Local entertainment! • FREE Teen Night at Downtown YMCA. Last Saturdays, 7-10:30pm. Nonmembers welcome! FREE! YMCALincoln.org.

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APRIL 2018 ZODIAC: Aries Mar 21 - Apr 19 • Taurus Apr 20 - May 20

HOLIDAYS & OBSERVANCES

SUN

MON

TUE

GEMSTONE: Diamond WED

THU

FLOWER: Daisy FRI

SAT

• Apr 1: April Fool’s Day; Easter Sunday • Apr 2: Int’l Children’s Book Day; National PB&J Day; World Autism Awareness Day • Apr 6: National Tartan Day • Apr 7: Passover ends (PM); World Health Day • Apr 10: Nat’l Library Workers’ Day • Apr 11: Yom HaShoah begins • Apr 12: Yom HaShoah ends • Apr 13: Friday the 13th; Isra and Mi’raj • Apr 19: Yom Ha’atzmaut • Apr 22: Earth Day • Apr 26: Take our Kids to Work Day • Apr 27: Arbor Day

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

F REE Weekly Library events happening at each of our city libraries. See schedule at LincolnLibraries.org. Baby, toddler, preschool, youth, preteen, & teen. Follow on FB for updates! F REE Daily Admission to Pioneers Park Nature Center, 8:30am-5pm Mon-Sat, 12-5pm Sun. Prairie exhibits & animal displays. parks.lincoln. ne.gov/naturecenter. Morrill Hall Temporary Exhibits: 0-4y Free, 5-18y $3, 19y+ $6; Family Pass $13; Members FREE; Memberships begin at $50 • Guts & Glory thru June 2018 • Nano (read about it on pg. 19!)

• Sun. Apr 15 Beatrice Country Club (Apr 10) • Sat. Apr 21 Miracle Hill, Omaha (Apr 16) • Sun. Apr 22 Yankee Hill, Lincoln (Apr 17) • Sat. Apr 29 Arbor Links, Nebraska City (Apr 24) • Sun. May 20 Championship at Wilderness Ridge Golf Club, Lincoln. (May 15)

EVERY MONDAY • Toddler Time at Defy Gravity, 10am-2pm, $5 for ages 5 & under + $5 (1)adult. If they can walk, they can jump! 60min pass. DefyGravityLincoln.com. • $11.99 Unlimited Jumping at Defy Gravity, 4-9pm. Details online at defygravitylincoln.com. EVERY TUESDAY • FREE Admission at Spring Creek Prairie Audubon Center, Denton, Trails are open sunrise to sunset, Visitor’s Center hours 9am-5pm. • FREE Storytime at Indigo Bridge Books & Cafe, 10-11am. Storytime + activities! IndigoBridgeBooks.com. • Family Night at Defy Gravity, $29.99 for (4) 60min jump passes, 4-9pm. Value of $52. Add’l family member just $5. DefyGravityLincoln.com. • FREE Pre-School Play Club at Calvert Rec Center, 4500 Stockwell, 6-7pm. Music & sports for preschoolers of all abilities. Learn more on pg. 10. EVERY THURSDAY • Art Babies at The ArtReach Project, Gateway Mall, every Thursday from 9:30-11am, $8. For children ages 5 & under. Artreachproject.org. • Preschool Paint & Storytime at Paint Yourself Silly, 70th & Pioneers, Thursdays at 10:30am. Paintyourselfsilly.net. EVERY FRIDAY • Toddler Time at Defy Gravity, 10am-2pm, $5 for ages 5 & under + $5 (1)adult. If they can walk, they can jump! 60min pass. DefyGravityLincoln.com. EVERY SATURDAY • FREE Bilingual Storytime at Indigo Bridge Books & Cafe, 10-11am. Storytime + activities! IndigoBridgeBooks.com. • FREE Hyde Memorial Observatory, Holmes Lake, 7-11pm. HydeObservatory.info. US Kids Golf Lincoln Tour for ages 5-14: Come watch or caddy for free! 402-5254176, USKidsGolf.com. (Register-by dates in parenthesis.) • Sat. Apr 7 Tiburon Golf Club, Omaha (Apr 2) • Sun. Apr 8 Woodland Hills, Eagle (Apr 3) • Sat. Apr 14 Hidden Valley, Lincoln (Apr 9)

Page 48 • LincolnKidsInc.com

THURSDAY, APRIL 5 • Homeschool Days at SAC Museum, 28210 W Park Hwy (Ashland), 1st Thurs, 1pm, $7. “Air Traffic Control.” Pre-reg. SACMuseum.org. FRIDAY, APRIL 6 • Family Night at Lincoln Children’s Museum, Open late 5- 7:30pm, 1st Fridays. lincolnchildrensmuseum.org. Regular admission. • Pajama Night at Paint Yourself Silly in the Haymarket, 1st Fridays ’til midnight, $3. Includes milk & cookies! Paintyourselfsilly.net. SATURDAY, APRIL 7 • FREE Reading with Pups at Gateway Mall, 6100 O st, 9-10am*. 1st Saturdays. Interactive storytime with animals. Shoppinggatewaymall. com. *Please confirm time prior to arrival. • FREE 31st Annual Early Childhood Celebration at SCC Gymnasium, 8800 O St, sponsored by the Lincoln Chapter, NE AEYC., 9am-noon. Free family festival with activities, artwork, and performances by the String Beans & DMNV Lion Dance Team! Follow Lincoln Chapter NE AEYC on Facebook. • Diamond Festival: 60th Annual Show by the Lincoln Gem & Mineral Club, Lancaster Event Center, 84th & Havelock, 9am-6pm, $6/ adult, 11 & under free, 2-day pass for $11, $1 off with can donation to Food Bank. Booths, exhibits, demonstrations, gem dig & more! LincolnGemMineralClub.org. • Music at the Museum at LCM, 9:30am-noon. Details at lincolnchildrensmuseum.org. SUNDAY, APRIL 8 • Diamond Festival: 60th Annual Show by the Lincoln Gem & Mineral Club, Lancaster Event Center, 84th & Havelock, 10am-5pm, $6/ adult, 11 & under free, 2-day pass for $11, $1 off with can donation to Food Bank. Booths, exhibits, demonstrations, gem dig & more! LincolnGemMineralClub.org. TUESDAY, APRIL 10 • Lincoln Kids! Summer Edition Deadline. Send in your artwork & poetry! Last chance to reserve space for ads & articles (items are due within 1 week). Space may sell out. Email karla@ lincolnkidsinc.com, call 402-798-0224, or submit online at lincolnkidsinc.com. THURSDAY, APRIL 12 • FREE Natural Wellness Class by The Oily Rx, 2nd Thurs. Learn about natural

wellness & essential oils. FREE Sleepytime Roller for attending. See ad on page 31. Details at TheOilyRx.com or email Hello@TheOilyRx. com. FRIDAY, APRIL 13 • FREE IndiExplore for Kids at Indigo Bridge Books & Cafe, 2nd Fridays, 10-11am. Activities & readings on interesting topics for curious minds. IndigoBridgeBooks.com. • Tarzan the Stage Musical, a performance by Theatre Arts for Kids, 7pm. TAFK.org. • Sunset Hike at Pioneers Park Nature Center, 7:30-9pm, $8. Guided discovery hike. Register by Apr 11. parks.lincoln.ne.gov/naturecenter. SATURDAY, APRIL 14 • Get Smart Saturdays at SAC Museum, 28210 W Park Hwy (Ashland), 10-11am, $7. “Weather Watch!” Space limited. Register 3+ days in advance. SACMuseum.org. • FREE Kids Fit Club w/Fit4Lincoln at Gateway Mall playspace, 6100 O st, 11-11:40am*. 2nd Saturdays. *Please confirm time prior to arrival. • Tarzan the Stage Musical, a performance by Theatre Arts for Kids, 2 & 7pm. TAFK.org. THURSDAY, APRIL 19 • Neat Repeatz Children’s Consignment Sale, 9am-7pm, location TBA. Follow Neat Repeatz on Facebook for updates. Quality kids & maternity clothes, toys, gear, & more! Neatrepeatz.com. FRIDAY, APRIL 20 • Neat Repeatz Children’s Consignment Sale, 9am-7pm, location TBA. Follow Neat Repeatz on Facebook for updates. Quality kids & maternity clothes, toys, gear, & more! Neatrepeatz.com. SATURDAY, APRIL 21 • Volunteer! Spring Cleaning at Pioneers Park Nature Center, 9am-noon. Celebrate Earth Day and spruce up the grounds! Families are welcome. • Neat Repeatz Children’s Consignment Sale, 9am-5pm, location TBA. Follow Neat Repeatz on Facebook for updates. Quality kids & maternity clothes, toys, gear, & more! Neatrepeatz.com. • Saturday with our Naturalist at Pioneers Park Nature Center, 3rd Saturdays, 2-3pm. Guided discovery hike (dress according to weather). $5pp. Register by the Wednesday prior. (402) 441-7895, parks.lincoln.ne.gov/naturecenter. SUNDAY, APRIL 22 • Earth Day/Party of the Planet at Lincoln Children’s Zoo. Details TBA. Check LincolnZoo. org. • Neat Repeatz Children’s Consignment Sale, 11am-5pm, location TBA. Follow Neat Repeatz on Facebook for updates. Quality kids & maternity clothes, toys, gear, & more! Neatrepeatz.com.

TREE: Rowan, Maple, Walnut

APRIL IS... ABRIL • Spanish AVRIL • French APRIL • German APRILE • Italian • International Guitar Month • Keep America Beautiful Month • National Autism Awareness Month • National Humor Month • National Kite Month • National Poetry Month • Stress Awareness Month

FRIDAY, APRIL 27 • Neat Repeatz Annual Adult Consignment Sale, Details TBA. follow Neat Repeatz on FB for updates, and learn more at NeatRepeatz.com. SATURDAY, APRIL 28 • Neat Repeatz Annual Adult Consignment Sale, Details TBA. follow Neat Repeatz on FB for updates, and learn more at NeatRepeatz.com. • 16th Annual Nebraska Renaissance Faire & 11th Annual Midlands Pirate Festival, Riverwest Park (Elkhorn/Omaha), 11am-6pm. $5/kids & $12/adults. Nebfaire.com, or txt 402999-5463. • FREE Open Mic Night at the Food Court in Gateway Mall, 6100 O St, 6-9pm*. Last Saturdays. Local entertainment! *Confirm time prior to arrival. • FREE Teen Night at Downtown YMCA. Last Saturdays, 7-10:30pm. Non-members welcome! FREE! YMCALincoln.org. SUNDAY, APRIL 29 • Neat Repeatz Annual Adult Consignment Sale, Details TBA. follow Neat Repeatz on FB for updates, and learn more at NeatRepeatz.com. • FREE 3rd Annual Words 4 Birds at Spring Creek Prairie, Denton. Kids Poetry workshop starts at 11am, bird walk, BYO picnic lunch, and poetry readings! • 16th Annual Nebraska Renaissance Faire & 11th Annual Midlands Pirate Festival, Riverwest Park (Elkhorn/Omaha), 11am-6pm. $5/kids & $12/adults. Nebfaire.com, or txt 402999-5463. COMING UP... • May 1: Lincoln Kids! Summer issue debut— check it out online & look for it around town! • May 4 & 5: Harris Academy of the Arts Spring Recitals. FREE! Zion Church, 4pm Fri & 9am Sat. • May 24-Aug 13: LPS summer break (snow days may affect this). Register for camps now! Check out the Camp directory on pages 40 & 41 for fun things to do all summer long!

Follow us on Face b ook for updat e s a n d new events! C alender Listings are FREE! Submit yours at LincolnKid sIn c.com.

LK!

SUPPORT GROUPS | PERSONAL INTEREST PROGRAMS Adaptive Recreation Club Programs by Lincoln Parks & Rec Varied recreational & social activity clubs for youth & adults with special needs, grouped by age. Registration fee +$1 monthly dues, some activities require additional fees. parks. lincoln.ne.gov. Answers4Families Information, dialogue opportunities, education, & support for families, children and adults with disabilities, individuals over 60, & providers. State & national resources, support group schedules, organizations, & coping tips. Free database (nrrs.ne.gov) of Nebraska service providers. Helpline 800-746-8420; Answers4Families.org. Autism Family Network A support organization alternating between fun & informative events. Contact Cathy Martinez, Board President, at afnlincoln@aol.com. Cancer Support Groups Various cancer support groups and services for patients, family members, & friends. Contact the American Cancer Society, 402-423-4888, 5733 S. 34th Street, Ste. 500. Charlie Brown’s Kids Grief Support Group 1st & 3rd Thursdays, 6-8pm. Grief support group for children ages 3-18 who have experienced the death of a parent. Caregivers meet at the same time. Youth share feelings through books, discussions, art, writing & remembrance projects. Sheridan Lutheran, 6955 Old Cheney, 483-1845. Bev Prucha, B3549@aol.com. FoodNet “Tummy Fill not Landfill” Free food distribution for those in need. 100% volunteer-run program to feed the hungry & reduce food waste. No proof of income needed. We provide mostly perishable foods (produce, dairy, bread, etc.) not available in dry food pantries. Several sites distributed to daily. These locations allow children (more adult-only locations are listed at www. foodnetlincoln.org):

SUN: 931 Saunders (3pm) MON: 4915 W. Adams (12pm) TUE: 3110 N. 1st (5pm) WED: 4221 J St (5:30pm) THU: 4500 Stockwell (11am) FRI: Citylight @ 29th & O (11:30am); Grace @ 40th & Sheridan (12:15pm) SAT: Z ion @ 1st & F (10:30); St. Mary’s @ 14th & K (1pm) Down Syndrome Advocates in Action NE DSAA NE promotes inclusion and acceptance of individuals with Down Syndrome. We can provide IEP Support, a mentoring program and events to help families socialize and learn from each other. Connect with us on our website www.dsaane.org, by email at dsaaofne@gmail. com, or call 402-413-0199. Good Neighbor Mothers Offering Moms Support Mom’s support group, 1st & 3rd Thursdays at Good Neighbor Community Center, 2617 Y Street, 402-477-4173. Heartland Home Schoolers Providing encouragement for home school parents. Offering activities for home schooled students, including skating parties, spelling bee, science fair and more. Homeschool-life.com/ ne/heartland/. Help for Attention Deficit Disorders First Tuesdays, 6-7:30pm. Parenting network. Creative/challenging activities for children, support/education for parents. Family meal provided. 5903 Walker Ave., 471-3700. La Leche League of Lincoln La Leche League’s mission is to help mothers worldwide to breastfeed through mother-tomother support, encouragement, information, and education, and to promote a better understanding of breastfeeding as an important element in the healthy development of the baby and mother. We have multiple meetings for encouragement and leaders to answer questions throughout Lincoln. For more information call Brooke at 402-5408568 or visit www.lllofne.org.

Thank you for the "UP" birthday artwork, MiKayla! Celebrating 25 years

-Lincoln Kids! Newspaper

Inspired by the movie Up, MiKayla Brenner, 5th Grade at Norris Intermediate

Lincoln Area Families with Multiples For families welcoming multiples into their lives, and the joys and challenges that come with them. 434-6533, coordinator.lafm@gmail. com, lincolnmultiples.org, LAFM, P.O. Box 5911, Lincoln, 68505-5911. Lincoln MOMs (Moms on a Mission) All moms are invited. Every First Saturday of the Month 8:30 - 10:30PM. Gianna’s Java & Gelato, The Guadalupe Center, 2241 O St, Ste. T. Opening prayer, inspirational speaker, group discussion, social time, snacks and coffee. Childcare available with signup. $5 suggested donation. See our Facebook group for events and topics: Lincoln MOMs or email lincolnmoms@outlook.com M.O.M.S. (Meeting Other Mothers) Tuesdays, 9:30-11am, Grace Lutheran Church, 2225 Washington. Conversation, speakers, crafts, snacks, service projects, & various topics; also holiday parties & field trips. Daycare available: $3/child +$1 each additional. Melissa Nickolaus, 464-6921. MOMS Club of Lincoln (Moms Offering Moms Support) Lincoln chapter of the International MOMS Club®, a non-profit organization specifically for at-home moms. Several events each month for our members: breakfasts, book clubs, play groups, mom’s night out, etc! Our goal is to support each other through friendship, activities, and service projects in the Lincoln area. MomsClubLincoln.weebly.com. Mom Support Group Wednesdays, Bryan Health Family Birthplace at Institute for Women’s & Children’s Health. Facilitated by lactation consultants. 1:302:30PM. 402-481-7103. MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) Are you a mom of a child aged birth to kindergarten? There’s a place for you in a

MOPS Group! MOPS provides a welcome break for moms; a chance for moms to make new friends, & an opportunity for moms to know they are not alone in the struggles & joys of raising young children. Ten groups in Lincoln and the surrounding area meeting on various Mon/Tue/Wed/Thu mornings and evenings. Child care provided in a nurturing environment. For more information or to find a group that works with your schedule, visit www.MOPS.org. You can also contact Denise Savage at NebraskaMOPS@gmail.com. Mourning Hope Grief Support 402-488-8989, email hope@mourninghope.org or visit mourninghope.org. Open Hearts Adoption Support Group Fellowship for families with adopted children. Family-centered events (Christmas Party, Ethnic Party, Picnics, Mother’s Tea, Harvest Party). Supported through dues and gifts. All families welcome, especially if you want to find out more about adoption! Dates & locations vary, contact Sherie Quirie, 465-5841 or lincoln-openheartsadoption.blogspot.com. PACL Parenting Across Color Lines PACL is a peer support group for caregivers who are parenting transracially, are in an interracial relationship with bi-racial children, or adults who grew up transracially. Learn how to help children develop healthy racial identities. Join us for our next Support Group. We meet the 4th Monday of each month, 7-8:30pm, at Newman Methodist, 2242 R St. Contact 402-476-2273 or laurie@nfapa.org for more info. Parents of Gender Fluid Kids Monthly coffee and conversation group for parents and primary caregivers of gender fluid, gender creative, or transgender children, youth, and young adults. We meet the second Saturday of every month. For more information, contact parentsofgfkids@gmail.com.

Sandhill Cranes by Yve Nelson, age 10, Kahoa Elementary, Sketch created at home in her art studio

The Sandhill Crane Migration is a worldfamous birding spectacle that occurs every Spring along the Central Flyway. During their northward journey, the largest crane concentration— over half-a-million, or around 80% of the planet’s Sandhill Crane population— makes stops along the Platte River Valley from Grand Island to North Platte, with the average crane’s visit lasting 29 days. Beginning mid-February and peaking mid-March, viewers of all ages can witness this remarkable event in cornfields and wetlands not far from Lincoln. Birders fly in from all over the world to view the roosting, dining, and dancing of these large, majestic birds, but here in Nebraska, the birds fly to you!

Created by Cesar Hosey, age 10, 5th Grade at Belmont Elementary, made at home

Turn the page for more amazing local artwork! Submit your creations to karla@lincolnkidsinc.com.

We 7 our Lincoln Kids!

Spring 2018 • Page 49

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• • • LK! Art Gallery • • • • • •

• • •

Princess by Aysha Gray, age 7, 2nd Grade

Koi Fish Chinese Brush and Ink, by Autumn Fager, age 10, The Artreach Project

Beautiful Tropical Bird Oil Pastels by Hope Dowdy, age 7, Art Academy Lincoln

Billy Bob Joe a combination of 12 dinosaurs, colored pencils, by Brooks Xia, age 8, Art Academy Lincoln

Art is a Catalyst for Conversation

By Tamara Kay, Executive Director

artreachproject.org “The artist is not a special kind of person; rather, each person is a special kind of artist.”

The ArtReach Project

- Ananda Coomaraswamy

e all have a purpose in the world and a story to tell, and at The ArtReach Project, we recognize the power of storytelling through the impactful language of art. Just as love is a language, art is a language, too. Art is a way to communicate things we feel but cannot put into words. Page 50 • LincolnKidsInc.com

The way we tell our story, even to ourselves, can shape our experience of the world in powerful ways. Creativity gives us a voice with which to tell our story and connect with others. It’s in listening and responding to each others’ stories that we share the human experience, examine where we’ve been, and then

decide what we want to do next. As life unfolds, art provides a free place to capture thoughts connected to the heart and allow creative expression into the conversation. This is what The ArtReach Project is about. We are a people-powered and idea-driven nonprofit outreach that believes in the power of

collective creativity to leave a positive impact on our culture. This happens one person at a time. One conversation at a time. One project at a time. And one moment at a time. What happens next is simply up to YOU. So...what kind of artist are you? We invite you to discover your inner artist at The ArtReach Project. Gather with others to make a difference while we grow as artists and give to the community. Visit the website to learn about our events, projects, and schedule of classes. And check out our NEW Monthly Membership Program which gives you exclusive privileges and opportunities to join the creative conversation. Follow us on Facebook & Instagram to see what’s next! artreachproject.org

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• • • • • • • • • • • Dinosaur by Easton Wei, Age 5, LUX Center for the Arts

3 Headed Dog by Ronan Nugent Age 8 LUX Center for the Arts

Fire Breathing Dragon Colored Pencil, by David Fisher, age 10, 5th Grade at Sheridan Elementary, The ArtReach Project

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Spring 2018 • Page 51

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345 Sporting Village Drive, Ste. 1