Desert Companion - 2014 Family Edition by Nevada Public Radio

2014 Special Issue

GETTING TOGETHER

CELEBRATING WHERE WE GATHER, WORK AND PLAY

HEY, KIDS: A TO-DO LIST THAT’S NOT CHORES!

POSH EATS FOR LI’L FUTURE FOODIES

Plus

IS MODERN TECH CANDYCRUSHING OUR KIDS' CREATIVITY?

A RESOURCE GUIDE TO FAMILY-FRIENDLY VEGAS

MORE THAN A PLACE A WAY OF LIFE.

It’s one thing to buy a house. It’s quite another to ﬁnd a home. In Summerlin, ﬁnding a home means getting more. More than 150 miles of trails. More than 150 neighborhood parks. More community events, shopping, dining and entertainment – with even more on the way in 2014. It’s more than a place to live, it’s a way of life. Today. Tomorrow. Forever. This is Summerlin. This is Home.

Galleria at Sunset is Expanding! 30,000 square foot exterior expansion with a new Main Entrance and Plaza, including new restaurants, a cascading water feature and patio dining. Macy’s • JCPenney • Dillard’s • Kohl’s • Dick’s Sporting Goods And over 140 shops, restaurants and services 702-434-0202 www.galleriaatsunset.com Stay connected:

Redefining RedefiningG Great reat S Sttyle yle

New NewRestaurants RestaurantsOpening OpeningSpring Spring2015 2015

EDiTOR’S Note

Group hug

wish I had the willpower to ignore that frequently flung stale crust of a question that we Las Vegans have confronted countless times, perhaps launched from the lips of visiting relatives, out-of-town friends or parachuting journalists — How can you raise a family here? — but, no, can’t do it. Besides, this inaugural Desert Companion Family issue calls for a rallying cry, no? I won’t sugar-coat the realities facing families in Southern Nevada — we need better schools, more parks, stronger communities, maybe a dozen or so fewer billboards featuring strippers spilling bulbously out of lace contraptions — but, come on, we’re hardly the monstrous child-gnashing neon family death machine the perpetrators of the stereotype seem to wish true. Unscientific and purely anecdotal Exhibit A: me. Like many natives, I was raised amid the city’s flash and clangor without turning into a chain-smoking slot zombie, the product of an applied parenting philosophy that said: Keep the kids busy — with school activities, library visits, summer rec rooms, day trips and a perhaps overgenerous complement of yard work. Happily against type, Vegas produced a bookish, inquisitive kid (one who detested, and still unapologetically detests, yard work). In the meantime, the city has only expanded its to-do list. That’s both the philosophical thrust and practical core of our Desert Companion Family special bonus issue. In the following pages, you’ll find not only loads of activities to keep you and the kids productively occupied

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over the spring, summer and beyond, but you’ll also find thinkier fare that addresses some of the other realities that face many modern parents, including addressing the challenges of blended families, navigating children through the digital landscape and reviving the lost art of the sofa-cushion fort. This special issue is divided into three sections. Get Out! focuses on exploring the city with your little ones, from its parks and museums to restaurants and specialized services — check out our “Big little world” feature on p. 22 for an exhaustive tour for families in every quadrant of the valley. Home Life showcases the places where we gather, work and play, with everything from kid-friendly kitchen projects to a handy overview of the valley’s educational options. The Balance section ties it all together with reflections on the many different incarnations that family can take, with a spotlight thrown on striking young talents in arts, sports and science — and tips on how these families created the perfect Petri dishes for fostering excellence. Throughout the issue, the profiles of families from across the valley reflect not just our city’s diversity, but offer definitive proof that making a family-friendly city isn’t just a top-down initiative, but one that’s taking place every day in our backyards, Andrew Kiraly kitchens and living rooms. editor

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LAND ROVER LR4:

NOW GETTING THERE CAN BE AS ENJOYABLE AS BEING THERE. The Land Rover LR4 has undergone a transformation. Its new design cues are bolder and more distinguished than ever. That’s why Land Rover LR4 is always in its element, whether it’s crossing town or taking everyone way beyond the city limits for the weekend. To experience the 2014 Land Rover LR4 for yourself, visit Land Rover Las Vegas for a test drive today.

2014

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special issue

GET OUT!

Home life

Balance

The Guide

11 Profile The soccer-

29 Profile The Boone

45 Profile The

59 Resource guide

loving Robson family is having a ball

family really talks the talk

14 Dining Eateries

32 Education From

England-Goodrich family works hard to achieve a smooth blend

Organizations, activities and information every parent can use

where you can (gently) expand your kids' palates

charter schools to home, your education options

18 Sports & Leisure

34 Cooking Gather

A dozen places where special-needs kids can join the fun

the family in the kitchen to make these recipies

22 Fill the days 29

things to do with kids

38 together Garden,

kitchen table, backyard: where we gather

2014 Special Issue

GETTING TOGETHER

CELEBRATING WHERE WE GATHER, WORK AND PLAY

HEY, KIDS: A TO-DO LIST THAT’S NOT CHORES!

48 Prodigy Kids Four children who are off to a fast start 52 re: wired Children

plus technology adds up to a strange new world for parents

POSH EATS FOR LI’L FUTURE FOODIES IS MODERN TECH CANDYCRUSHING OUR KIDS' CREATIVITY?

A RESOURCE GUIDE TO FAMILY-FRIENDLY VEGAS

DC_FAMILY_COVER_FNL.indd 1

The Whisenants grow together — literally Photography Bill Hughes

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4/8/14 6:03 PM

on the cover

s p r iGnugtst eprr eCsRE e rDvI e T : Lceo fu t rtesy studio j

Plus

Join four generations of membership at CCCU. Since 1951, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been a part of wise money management in Clark County families. And the tradition continues to grow. Now 33,000 members strong and a half billion dollars in size, we continue to be your home town family bank for a lifetime. Bring your new CCCU member into the branch nearest you to make their first deposit and receive a courtesy gift he or she can grow with. Start online at www.CCCULV.org, or call 702-228-2228

p u blis h e D B y nevada p u blic radio

We’re on a journey to redefine the experience of school. Now enrolling students 6 weeks old - 2nd Grade Summer and 2014-2015 School Year 310 S 9th Street, Las Vegas 702.724.1436 9thBridgeSchool.com

Mission Statement

Board of Directors

Desert Companion is the premier city magazine that celebrates the pursuits, passions and aspirations of Southern Nevadans. With award-winning lifestyle journalism and design, Desert Companion does more than inform and entertain. We spark dialogue, engage people and define the spirit of the Las Vegas Valley.

Officers

Publisher Melanie Cannon

Directors shamoon ahmad, m.d., mba, facp

deputy editor Scott Dickensheets

kevin m. buckley First Real Estate Companies

staff writer Heidi Kyser Graphic Designer Brent Holmes

Elizabeth FRETWELL chair emeritus City of Las Vegas Jan Jones Blackhurst Caesars Entertainment Corporation John R. Klai II Klai Juba Wald Architects

ADVERTISING COPY EDITOR Carla J. Zvosec

gavin isaacs

Contributing writers Cybele, Chantal Corcoran, Julie Hession, Damon Hodge, Jarret Keene, Molly M. Michelman, Sarah Vernetti

Lamar Marchese president emeritus

Editorial: Andrew Kiraly, (702) 259-7856; andrew@desertcompanion.com Fax: (702) 258-5646 Advertising: Christine Kiely, (702) 259-7813; christine@desertcompanion.com

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Richard I. dreitzer, Esq. Wilson Elser Moskowitz Edelman & Dicker, LLP

traffic & sales associate Kimberly Chang

Contributing artists Bill Hughes, Chris Morris, Sabin Orr, Checko Salgado

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Louis Castle director emeritus Patrick N. Chapin, Esq. director emeritus

Web administrator Danielle Branton

Florence M.E. Rogers secretary Nevada Public Radio

Art Director Christopher Smith

Subscription manager Chris Bitonti

600 E. Warm Springs Road Las Vegas, NV (702) 263-0034

TIM WONG treasurer Arcata Associates

Editor Andrew Kiraly

Marketing manager Lisa Kelly

Featuring Chef Wes Kendricks’ contemporary American cuisine including fresh fish, wild game, duck, lamb, Certified Angus Beef, and comfort food classics. Conveniently located off the 215 and Warm Springs. Dinner Tuesday - Saturday 5pm until closing (around 10pm)

cynthia alexander, ESQ. vice chair Snell & Wilmer

Associate Publisher Christine Kiely

Account executives Sharon Clifton, Tracey Michels, Favian Perez, Carol Skerlich, Markus Van’t Hul

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Susan malick Brennan chair Brennan Consulting Group, LLC

Subscriptions: Chris Bitonti, (702) 259-7810; subscriptions@desertcompanion.com Website: www.desertcompanion.com Desert Companion is published 12 times a year by Nevada Public Radio, 1289 S. Torrey Pines Dr., Las Vegas, NV 89146. It is available by subscription at desertcompanion. com, or as part of Nevada Public Radio membership. It is also distributed free at select locations in the Las Vegas Valley. All photos, artwork and ad designs printed are the sole property of Desert Companion and may not be duplicated or reproduced without the written permission of the publisher. The views of Desert Companion contributing writers are not necessarily the views of Desert Companion or Nevada Public Radio. Contact Chris Bitonti for back issues, which are available for purchase for $7.95.

William mason Taylor International Corporation Chris Murray director emeritus Avissa Corporation Jerry Nadal Cirque du Soleil William J. “Bill” Noonan director emeritus Boyd Gaming Corporation kathe nylen PBTK Consulting Anthony j. pearl, esq. The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas MARK RICCiARDI, Esq. director emeritus Fisher & Phillips, LLP Mickey Roemer director Roemer Gaming

emeritus

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Make Thursdays Family Movie Night Join us for a free family night out at the movies every Thursday, starting at sundown. Bring a blanket for first-come, first-served open seating. Children must be accompanied by an adult. All events are weather permitting and schedule is subject to change. For more information please visit MyTownSquareLasVegas.com.

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GREAT FAMILY OFFER 2 Tickets For $99*

For Tickets Visit: CIRQUEDUSOLEIL.COM/VEGASLOCALS *Management reserves all rights. Offers are subject to change and based on availability. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Must present Nevada State ID at box office at time of pick up. Price does not include tax and fees.

ex pl oring the c i t y to g ether to inspire ac ti ve bodies and minds

fam 14

profile

Goal-oriented Whether on or off the field, the Robson family finds that soccer gives them real kicks b y c h a n ta l C o r c o r a n

Kickin' it: From left, Jessie, Tony, Lori, Kieran, Joey and Annie Robson live and breathe soccer.

P h oto g r a p h y C h e c ko s a lg a d o

en-year-old Kieran Robson says his family owns at least 40 soccer balls. Forty? “More like 100,” says his 13-yearold sister, Joey. Her twin, Jessie, agrees — although nobody’s really counted. Speaking over each other, the four Robson kids talk about all the balls in bags throughout the house, the balls in the garage, the balls stuffed in the soccer closet. (Yes, they have a closet reserved strictly for soccer gear.) With four kids playing in clubs, dad coaching all three teams, and mom in the role of team manager, the Robsons live and breathe for the field — so, naturally, the equipment piles up. This passion for the sport began a generation earlier, in Phoenix, Ariz., where mom and dad, Tony and Lori, grew up. Tony was eight when he joined club soccer. His dribbles, kicks and passes served him well: He traveled throughout much of Europe with the U.S. Youth Soccer Olympic Development Program before soccer scholarships earned him a degree from Yavapai College in Arizona, and an education in communications from Sangamon State University (now the University of Illinois Springfield). Today Tony is a salesman for a resin manufacturer. Oh, and he also coaches soccer for Henderson’s Heat FC (Football Club). “The ultimate goal is to help (our kids) challenge themselves, physically, mentally,

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SAVE THE DATES

May 1 at 6PM Desert Companion on Tour: Pub Crawl at Town Square Las Vegas May 29 at 6PM Photo Contest Showcase Issue Party august 7 at 6PM Best Doctors Issue Party at TPC Summerlin sePteMber 2014 Desert Companion on Tour: Norm Schilling october 2014 Top Lawyers Issue Party NoveMber 18 at 8aM Bi-Annual Recycle Event deceMber 2014 Desert Companion Restaurant Awards Issue Party

Nevada Public radio

RECYCLING DAY

Shred your old paperwork, recycle glass, aluminum and plastic – even appliances, computers and cell phones. We will also be taking clothes, jewelry and accessories, housewares, home décor and furniture. All for free!

Bi-annual event held in April and November more information at www.knpr.org

PREsENtING sPoNsoR: PARtICIPAtING sPoNsoRs:

READY.SET. CLICK! Accepting submissions until

MAY 5, 2014

missed the deadline this year? start collecting your favorite photos for entry into the 2015 ‘Focus on nevada’ photo contest.

For Full guidelines, contest rules and prizes, visit desertcompanion.com/photocontest

For event advertising and sponsorship opportunities contact Christine Kiely at 702.259.7813 or christine@desertcompanion.com to find all upcoming events, please visit desertcompanion.com/events

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and to learn the game,” says Tony. “Then, preferably go to college, or at least let that (soccer) help them get where they want to go.” Eleven-year-old Annie has a different ambition: “It would be cool to do a header in the goal,” she says, like Abby Wambach. “Just keeping them involved in something positive, and watching the group that they’re with, and having them active is important,” adds Lori. Active is an understatement. Each of the three teams has two or three two-hour practices a week, plus weekend games, totaling four coaching hours a night for Tony — except Fridays, which the family has off. (Phew!) During tournaments, the Robsons can play as many as 10 games in a weekend. Plus, Tony plays recreationally in two adult leagues.

Just keeping them involved in something positive, and watching the group that they’re with, and having them active is important. “We have to, as a family, constantly ask, ‘Are we making the right decisions?’ Because it’s a huge, huge commitment,” says Tony. Time and again, the answer is yes. When the Robsons aren’t playing soccer or preparing to play soccer — Tony has game plans to configure, Lori has player fees to collect and team schedules to update — the Robsons like to gather in their living room to root for their favorite team: Barcelona. At their feet lie the family dogs: Messi (for Barcelona’s Lionel Messi) and Mia (as in Mia Hamm). So, yes, the Robsons have a lot of soccer balls, but, as with many large families, socks are a problem. “There are never enough soccer socks!” says Lori.

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GET OUT

dining

Currant event: A berry fresh Eccles Cake from Crumbles bakery

Baby needs new chews! Eleven restaurants where you can broaden your kid's palate and inspire a future foodie B y M o l ly M . M i c h e l m a n

hile at a business dinner abroad, you order in your worst foreign tongue. The server delivers an ugly, scaly whole fish that locks its gooey eyeballs with yours. Do you eat it or bolt? Whether you have the coping chops for this kind of situation depends a lot on your childhood food experience. A kid neither exposed to nor expected to eat anything more than good ol’ burgers, chicken nuggets, French fries and PB & J is at a clear disadvantage. Ellyn

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Satter, a registered dietitian nutritionist, family therapist and guru of child feeding, suggests pairing previously unexplored foods with those that are familiar — a platter of Brussels Sprouts Surprise seems far less frightening when some nice, safe bread and milk are also within reach. So why not start stretching the kids’ palates right now? Below are some familiar culinary conduits to help challenge (and expand) your youngster’s taste buds. The restaurants and new

flavors are relatively realistic for children, and a handful designed for the daredevil diner. A thought: Consider your own plate, too. When was the last time you tried a new flavor or texture? Try something different yourself — that might help your son or daughter take a few chances, too.

Familiar dish: Baked goods Restaurant: Crumbles (2525 W. Horizon Ridge Parkway) New tastes: Currants (in the Eccles Cake) or apricot (in the Apricot Ginger tray bake) Kid perk: Fragrant and not fancy or intimidating Parent perk: Well-priced, from scratch, few ingredients, fresh made Note: Charming (complete with lovely accent) baker-owner Moira Agardi goes for a run each morning before heading to the kitchen.

P h oto g r a p h y S A B I N O R R

Familiar dish: Scrambled eggs

Familiar dish: Pizza Restaurant: Dom Demarco’s Pizzeria & Bar (9785 W. Charleston Blvd.) New Tastes: Such toppings as eggplant, artichoke, vegan cheese, caramelized onions Kid perk: Outdoor patio, next door to pet store, across from frozen yogurt shop Parent perk: Full bar, still feels classy, plenty of parking, sports on the many TV screens Note: After a lifetime of plain or pepperoni only, my 12 year-old requested a slice of our spinach, basil and mushroom at our last visit.

Familiar dish: Something fried New taste: Sweet potato (fries) Restaurant: Rachel’s Kitchen (multiple locations) Kid perk: Most locations are near a park or play area Parent Perk: Plenty of tasty salads, smoothies, “light” options such as a 143-calorie breakfast sandwich Also try: zucchini fries at LBS: A Burger Joint at Red Rock Casino (11011 W. Charleston Blvd.). Remember to walk in the side entrance near Hachi and avoid leaving smelling like an ashtray. Note: While fried foods are not ideal, the familiar texture could start the ball rolling to gain acceptance of shrimp and cooked vegetables.

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Restaurant: Sunrise Café (8975 S. Eastern Ave.) New taste: Cheese omelet (“TKO” — Tiny Kid Omelet — served with bananas, wheat toast, drink). Pass up the cheddar or American for feta, Swiss or pepper jack cheese. Pay 50 cents each for additional ingredients such as green pepper or olives to further push the palate. Kid perk: Prize from the Treasure Chest with kids’ meals; also, spotted at last visit: kids eating in pajamas Parent perk: Diner-like, friendly, warm mom ’n’ pop feel Note: For an extra $2, adults may have the TKO (or other kids’ meals), too.

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NEXT JULY 2014 DEALicious Meals Simply great dining deals in a whole range of prices at some unlikely locations.

Sushi and sweetness: Above, American caterpillar roll from Miko's Izakaya Sushi; right, MTO's brie sandwich with local honey and toasted walnuts on brioche

AUGUST 2014 Health & Medicine Listing of the valley’s best physicians and specialists

NOVEMBER 2014 Holiday Guide: Things to Do & Gifts to Give Featuring gifts for everyone on your list, with recommendations for men, women, kids and even pets.

DECEMBER 2014 The Restaurant Awards Our dining critics pick their chefs & restaurants of the year

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Familiar dish: Noodles Restaurant: Kaba Curry (5115 Spring Mountain Road) New tastes: Udon, curry Kid perk: Fun approach to ordering — select base dish, spice level, limitless sides and toppings Parent perk: Chance to expose the kids to a variety of flavors and textures to go in the udon Note: Go beyond the main dish; consider a melon soda float with green tea ice cream.

Familiar dish: Tortillas Restaurant: Leticia’s Mexican Cocina (7585 Norman Rockwell Lane) New tastes: Carne asada, carnitas or birria (made with goat) Kid perk: Festive décor, outdoor seating Parent perk: The real deal, authentic and homemade; the owner/chef is right in the kitchen Note: The tortilla can be a gateway to the land of crepes. Try Tasty Crepes (4845 S. Fort Apache Road) and encourage your child to order one filled with kiwi, mango and blueberry.

Familiar dish: Grilled cheese sandwich New taste: “Adult” grilled-cheese sandwich Restaurants: MTO Café (500 S. Main St.) for the brie, local honey and toasted walnuts on brioche. Todd English PUB (3720 Las Vegas Blvd. S.) for brie, double-smoked bacon, tomato. MelTeez Food Truck (usmenuguide.com/melteez/index. html) for the No. 7, with avocado, grilled onions and tomato on multigrain. Kid perk: Hip lunch downtown (MTO). Taking the tram (park at Bellagio, tram runs to Crystals Mall, where you’ll find PUB). Finding the food truck location on Twitter (MelTeez). Parent perk: All of the options are heavy hitters, so you will likely get to share. Note: If you have a ketchup or marinara fan, the next step is to get her to dip the grilled cheese in tomato soup. Nordstrom Café at the Fashion Show Mall has this classic combo on the kids’ menu.

Familiar dish: Non-threatening vegetables (carrots and cucumber) Restaurant: Miko’s Izakaya Sushi (500 E. Windmill Lane) New tastes: Vegetable sushi rolls (Rabbit Roll, American Caterpillar Roll, Veggie California Roll) Kid perk: Creative-looking food and no fishy smell Parent perk: No-frills approach to high-quality sushi Note: Miko’s is known not only for the wonderful food but also for the long wait. Come early, come late or bring the iPad.

Familiar dish: Messy food Restaurant: Road Kill Grill (3730 Thom Blvd.) New taste: BBQ ribs Kid perk: No manners required Parent perk: Ask for a tiny sample to help make a decision about what to order Note: The GPS is telling the truth — it’s located in the middle of a residential area (and it may be a bit of a wait).

Familiar dish: Novelty and kitsch Restaurant: Huntridge Pharmacy Soda Fountain (1144 E. Charleston Blvd.) New taste: Tuna melt Kid perk: A blast to sit, order and eat at the counter on a red-cushioned barstool Parent perk: Excuse for you to sip a milkshake or float Note: Certified kosher (only open until 3 p.m. on Fridays and closed Saturday) Also try: Cooking steak on a hot rock at Stack at The Mirage (3400 Las Vegas Blvd. S.) to help bring out the hidden carnivore.

Familiar dish: Hot cocoa Restaurant: Serenade Coffee Bar & Desserts (7920 S. Rainbow Blvd.) New taste: Pistachio latte Kid perk: Creamy, sweet and cute designs sometimes show up in the latte foam Parent perk: This latte is caffeine-free. Note: Honey bread or green tea shaved ice are a perfect accompaniment to the latte.

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sports & leisure

Field for all: left, Challenger Little League; below, Step Up Academy

Let them play Twelve places where kids with special needs can join sports, learn to dance and just have fun B y M o l ly m . M i c h e l m a n

arenting a child with a disability can be very isolating, and the search for activities that cater to these children is often fruitless. But there are some fantastic local spots that welcome and serve children with special needs. Take a look at the list and give something a try.

Sport-Social Founder Andrew Devitt combined his gift for skateboarding with his experience working with autistic children by teaching the basics in local skate

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parks. Fast-forward four years: Andrew and his young, talented crew now work with more than 200 kids with autism and other disabilities each week in the one-of-a-kind, 10,000-square-foot warehouse. The team at Sport-Social teaches social and behavioral skills through sports and the arts. All staff members have training in Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA), a clinical system of interventions to reduce problem behaviors and build skills. 7055 Windy St. Suite B, 702-485-5515, lvsportsocial.com

Miracle League “Every child deserves the chance to play baseball.” That’s the motto of Miracle League of Las Vegas, which serves children ages 3-18 who have cognitive and physical challenges. Every player’s name is announced as he or she emerges from the dugout. All players bat once per inning, everyone is safe on base and each player scores a run. Peers and volunteers serve as “buddies” for the play-

C h a l l e n g e r L i t t l e L e ag u e a n d st e p u p ac a d e m y: b r e n t h o l m e s

Heather’s Dance Life At the request of a parent who wanted her child and his friends to learn some group dances for his upcoming bar mitzvah, owner Heather Gordon started a class for pre-teens with special needs. The former Broadway and EFX dancer holds the weekly class for the children, ages 10-14 years, taking care to schedule the class at a time when the rest of the studio is empty. This helps the students feel comfortable. Parents are able to watch the entire class on a video monitor. 6135 S. Fort Apache Road, 702-534-6448, heathersdancelife.com

Kinderschool, Elementary & Middle School

ers throughout the game. At a minimum, it is worth checking out the state-of-the art Miracle League Field. 101 S. Rancho Drive, 970-275-0465, miracleleaguelasvegas.com

Challenger Little League This organization also provides the opportunity for children 5-18 with physical and mental disabilities to enjoy baseball. Challenger Field hosts this “games only” (no practices) league. Myron Leavitt Family Park, St. Louis and Eastern avenues, 702-388-8899, challenger-little-league-of-south ern-nevada.org

Give Your Child Every Advantage We’ll challenge and inspire your child in a caring environment with programs that have successfully educated thousands of children in Las Vegas for more than fifty years.

Step Up Academy Here a young girl can learn to move and dance from Miss Clark County 2009, who also has a degree in social work from UNLV. Miss Christina received ABA training specifically for this “creative movement” class to help her work with children with autism, though the class welcomes children with other special needs as well. The group is included in Step Up Academy’s recitals, and has even performed at a gala at the Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health. 2558 Wigwam Parkway, 702-577-1832, stepupacademy.com

3275 Red Rock St. • 702-362-1180 • LVDS.com

Advanced Innovative Curriculum State-of-the-Art Computer Technology Spanish Music Competitive Sports Extra Curricular Activities State Licensed AdvancED National Accreditation

Call for Admissions Information & Campus Tour

City Lights Music Together Your Music Together class will be led by one of the staff of teachers, who have graced the stages of Las Vegas, Broadway and Japan in shows such as Mamma Mia!, Jubilee, Le Rêve and KA. Music Together is a research-based music and movement experience for children up to 7 years old (and the grown-ups who love them). Owner Melanie Ron provides a friendly, familiar environment where all participants are accepted. Various locations, 702-838-4751, citylightsmusictogether.com

Cross Fit Henderson Run, use the medicine ball, do some squats and so much more. Coach Danny Wilkinson’s kid-friendly skills mesh perfectly with his kinesiology degree and

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previous experience working with children with disabilities. Held in the Cross Fit gym right along with the rest of the participants, classes for children with autism are held nearly every day. Danny’s big smile (and muscles) will immediately make you and your child feel comfortable and inspired. 2510 W. Horizon Ridge Parkway #100, 702-998-2355 (ask for Danny), crossfithenderson.com

Hollywood Kids

School of Rock For those about to rock, this place provides guitar, bass, vocals, keyboard and drum lessons. It’s also opened its programs to include differently abled kids. Everyone, regardless of ability, starts in “Rock 101” to learn the basics of playing in a band. When and if the time comes, students move into “performance group,” rehearsing weekly, culminating with a live concert. Instructors are real, working musicians, though not all are trained to work with special needs. Imagine your son or daughter covering Zeppelin, Metallica, The Beatles or Springsteen at a gig at the Hard Rock, the South Point Showroom or the House of Blues. (Note: SOR rehearsals are for kids only — something to keep in mind if you and your child aren’t ready for that separation.) 9340 W. Flamingo Road, 702-778-9382, lasvegaswest.schoolofrock.com

City of Las Vegas Wheelchair basketball, swim, adaptive bike club, camping — these are among the long list of opportunities for children and adults with disabilities through the City of Las Vegas’ Adaptive Recreation Programs.

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Full-court fun: above, wheelchair basketball at a city court; right, School of Rock

Cindy Moyes, the program’s supervisor, explains that this is the “longest running program locally for those with physical or developmental challenges.” Creative programming such as “Vegas Vision,” for those who are blind or visually impaired, includes tandem-bike riding, rock climbing and fishing. Low cost ($3 for a one-hour golf lesson!) plus staff members experienced at working with people with disabilities make this a win-win. Activity locations vary, 702-229-4902, lasvegasnevada.gov/information/5168.htm

Dream Therapies The term “hippotherapy” means therapy with the help of a horse. It uses the horse’s movement as a treatment tool. At Dream Therapies, a staff of licensed occupational therapists, a speech pathologist and physical therapist bring expertise to this therapeutic riding. Horses are carefully selected and trained to work safely with the special needs population. (Note: There are a few restrictions, such as age or particular conditions that may prevent riding.) 366 E. Mesa Verde Lane, 702-227-4477, dreamtherapies.com

eHoops The “e” in eHoops stands for “exceptional” and “education.” eHoops’ mission is to allow special-needs kids to “participate in a safe, non-judgmental organized sporting environment.” Each team comprises half “typical” peers and half with special needs. Coaches receive special training to help them to be as effective as possible. While providing a wonderful time for those with disabilities and their families, eHoops is a unique and especially meaningful experience for the typical peers. e-hoopslv.com

w h e e lc h a i r b a s k e t b a l l ; c o u r t e s y c i t y o f l a s v e g a s school of rock: courtesy school of rock

Every Thursday night, boys and girls with special needs, ages 8 and up, enjoy 30 minutes of Glee singing followed by 30 minutes of Glee dance. The “Celebration Glee” final performances take place in a real theater, complete with wireless headsets, stage lighting, sound and costumes. Founder Margie Seastrand says it brings her tears of happiness. 10870 S. Eastern #101, 702-633-5500, hollywoodkidsacademy.com

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*EPA-estimated hwy fuel economy for 2014 Subaru Forester 2.5i CVT models. Actual mileage may vary. †2013 Top Safety Picks include the 2014 Subaru Forester. **MSRP excludes destination and delivery charges, tax, title and registration fees. Dealer sets actual price. 2014 Subaru Forester 2.5i Touring shown has an MSRP of $29,995.

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Big little world out there

This city-savvy survey of 29 family activities from Summerlin to Boulder City will keep your kids’ minds and bodies plenty busy

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Summerlin area: Let’s get active

owntown’s art scene is growing, Henderson has history, and Boulder City is famous for the dam, but Summerlin is the neighborhood to explore if getting active is on the agenda. It isn’t difficult to find a park, playground or walking path in Summerlin. However, the most popular spots are those that offer a way to help take the edge off the desert heat. At Paseos Park (12122 Desert Moon Road), run through the enormous splash pad or play on the nearby covered playground. This park also has picnic tables in the shade. Don’t forget to bring along the beach toys; the Paseos Park sandbox is a favorite with

toddlers. With its ample shade and wide variety of activities, this is the perfect stay-all-day playground. For air-conditioned fun, strap on some bowling shoes and try to score a turkey at Red Rock Lanes (11011 W. Charleston Blvd., 702-797-7467). Unlike the typical smoke-filled, dimly lit bowling allies, Red Rock Lanes is bright, clean and family-friendly. To add a twist to your usual pin-dismantling routine, opt for cosmic bowling. Just try not to embarrass the kids too much with your sweet dance moves. Families who are ready to refuel on carbohydrates can grab lunch at Mac Shack (8975 W. Charleston Blvd., 702-243-1722), where guests can have

their meal custom-built to their specifications. Picky eaters will rejoice at the chance to choose their pasta, sauce and optional extra ingredients. Vegetarian and gluten-free dishes are available, making this a good option when you’re trying to satisfy a group. But be warned: Kids who clean their plates are offered a Tootsie Roll pop on their way out the door, so you know your family will be asking to come back again soon. End a high-energy day with the kids by visiting the Summerlin branch of the Clark County Library District (1771 Inner Circle, 702-507-3860). With plenty of children’s books to peruse, this is a quiet way to shift into low gear before heading home. Parents of hesitant readers can seek out expert advice from librarians, finding the perfect page-turner to inspire their youngsters. Before you leave, visit the library’s art gallery for rotating exhibits from local artists. This small space is a manageable way to introduce toddlers to fine art. — Sarah Vernetti

Centennial Hills: Learning naturally

espite rapid growth, this suburban community in northwest Las Vegas has managed to maintain its rural flavor. There are historic parks, orchards and more modern amenities, such as libraries and community centers. Indeed, the Centennial Hills Community Center

Clockwise from left, Red Rock Lanes, nosh attack at Mac Shack, Floyd Lamb Park at Tule Springs, Centennial Hills Library

(6601 N. Buffalo Drive, 702-478-9622) is a 98,000-square-foot ode to fitness and fun, and has something for everyone. Adults can run, swim, lift, bicycle and stretch their way to better health while young people can exercise, create (paint and craft room), do homework (computers) and enjoy two outdoor pools with water slides during the summer. Add classroom space, locker rooms, a kitchen, child watch area, free kids’ gym for members and you never have to leave. If you get a hankering for the outdoors, consider a jaunt up the street, where nature and history collide (in a good way) at Floyd Lamb Park (9200 Tule Springs

Road, 702-229-8100) at Tule Springs. You can ogle some nature (ample vegetation, fish-stocked lake and lots of wildlife — ducks, jackrabbits, wild geese, a peacock or two) or explore history (nearly two dozen buildings, some built as early as 1900, including a water tower that supplied H2O to ranch guests) all in a bucolic setting that is so, well, un-Vegas. Nearby Centennial Hills Library (6711 N. Buffalo, 702507-6100): a well-rounded collection of books, magazines, newspapers? Check! DVDs, CDs, audio books and computers aplenty — 22-seat adult computer lab, 12

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Downtown: Culture crawl

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serve (333 S. Valley View Blvd., 702-8227700), a 180-acre eco-themed attraction with exhibits, bike trails, animal shows and botanicals. And if you crave local history, Nevada State Museum shares the same campus. Ever feel the need to shop, eat, enjoy a drink and watch your kids play in a treehouse loaded with slides? Go ahead and indulge that desire at Downtown Container Park (719 Fremont St.), where you’ll also encounter a giant, steel-plated praying mantis that shoots fireballs

G i lc r e a s e a n d co n ta i n e r Pa r k : b r e n t h o l m e s ; d i s cov e ry : co u rt e sy d i s cov e ry c h i l d r e n ' s m u s e u m

family resource computers, eight children’s computers and a Homework Help Center with 20 laptops? Check! Free Wi-Fi and wireless printing? Check! Additional accoutrements that make going to the library fun – weekly story times for kids, special programs events, used bookstore and café area? Check. Meantime, you can practically make it a day doing all things fruity at the Gilcrease Nature Sanctuary/Gilcrease Orchard (sanctuary, 8103 Racel St. 702645-4224; orchard, 7800 N. Tenaya Way, 702 409-0655). Start at the sanctuary, a safe haven for all kinds of animals — birds, pigs and goats, llamas, donkeys and reptiles — since 1970. Then end the day at the 60-acre orchard, stocking up on the some of the valley’s freshest fruits and vegetables. Still hungry? “Home grown family fun” is the theme of the Las Vegas Farmers Market (702-562-2676, lasvegasfarmersmarket. com). Held from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on the first and third Saturdays of the month, the Tule Springs event (one of four held throughout the valley) features farmers and food vendors offering a variety of often locally sourced vittles, and artists and artisans showcase everything from paintings to crafts. — Damon Hodge

ringing your family to the urban core of Las Vegas isn’t quite the gritty ordeal it was a mere handful of years ago. Today downtown teems with museums, parks and other kid-friendly spots. You can make a whole and very wholesome day out of hanging in the ’hood — just avoid over-explaining the term “gentlemen’s club” when driving near or around Industrial Road, okay? Consider heading straight for the heart of the Cultural Corridor, a sixblock stretch of businesses and creative landmarks along the Strip between Bonanza Road and Washington Avenue. There you’ll find the beloved Natural History Museum (900 Las Vegas Blvd. N., 702-384-3466), which houses upcoming exhibits like the dinosaur egg-tastic Hatching the Past (starting May 24). Kids’ faces will light up at the Neon Museum (770 Las Vegas Blvd. N., 702-387-6366), where a guide leads you through a tour of the outdoor Boneyard. Retro-cool vintage signs — Caesars Palace, Binion’s Horseshoe — can be viewed up close and personal. The nearby (and still-new) Discovery Children’s Museum in Symphony Park (360 Promenade Place, 702-382-3445) is another mustsee, offering three levels of imaginative exhibits for wee ones (Toddler Town) and aspiring scientists (Patents Pending) alike. Oh, and don’t forget Springs Pre-

Desert Living Center: SPrings preserve/opulEnce; D i n o s au r s : C o u r t e s y L a s V e g a s N at u r a l h i s t o r y M u s e u m

Clockwise from opposite page: Gilcrease Nature Sanctuary, Discovery Children's Museum, Springs Preserve, Natural History Museum, Container Park

at night. (Don’t worry; you won’t need a flame-resistant suit.) Boutique candy, vibrant artworks, live music — this place offers many compelling reason to be your new home away from home. Some kids don’t seem to suffer vertigo, which is why you might think about leading yours up to the top of The Stratosphere (2000 Las Vegas Blvd. S., 702-380-7777). The tower and observation deck are 1,100 feet in the air, with a 360-degree view of the valley, plus four thrill rides — Big Shot, Insanity, X Scream and the bungee-blasting SkyJump. The view is breathtaking. Another option for rambunctious little dudes and dudettes is SlotZilla (425 Fremont St.), a slot machine-themed zip-line ride that takes you

anywhere between 70 to 110 feet above the entire length (1,700 feet) of Fremont Street Experience. Doing crazy stuff? It’s not just for tourists anymore. Lunchtime is always the right time to hit Rock ‘N’ Noodles (1108 S. Third St., 702-522-9953), a quick, convenient place to treat the tykes to plates prepared for their palates — Just Like Paradise (fettuccine with creamy alfredo and diced pancetta), 99 Red Balloons (spaghetti with marinara and mini-meatballs), Return of the Mac (elbow macaroni with cheddar sauce, ground beef and bacon). The walls, adorned with classic rock album covers, allow for great conversation and games, too. For dessert, head over to Art of Flavors gelato shop (1616 Las Vegas Blvd. S., #130, 702-676-1027) for unique tastes like Strawberry Pepper Balsamic. (There are simpler, kid-friendly flavors, too.) — Jarret Keene

Henderson: Take flight

enderson, it’s A Place to Call Home — so boasts the city’s logo — and, certainly, it’s a popular spot to raise the kids, but after racing from the soccer field to the dance studio, to the pool, and the PTA meeting, what is there really for a family to do within the 103 square miles that make up Nevada’s second-largest city? Well, certainly Henderson folks love their movies! The Green Valley District’s outdoor picture show, On the Green, makes for free good-weather fun. Every Friday and Saturday from May to October, the District shows family-friendly classics such as Ghostbusters and Gremlins. Plastic chairs are available, but you’re welcome to bring your own blankets to cozy up on; popcorn is free; and film listings and times are available online. (shopthedistrictgvr. com/outdoorpicshow) If you’re looking for a more luxurious theater-going option, check out Green Valley’s Galaxy Luxury+ Theatres (4500 E. Sunset Road #10) where the ticket price is the same as most other cinemas in town, but the experience is so much better. Beyond the latest sound and projection technology, Galaxy offers movie-goers super-plush reclining seats; wine and beer for mom and dad to pair with their popcorn; a gourmet

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Clockwise from lower left: Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve, King Putt, Historical Railroad Tunnel Trail, Nevada Way

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project, the preserve hosts thousands of migratory birds traveling the Pacific Flyway, en route from Alaska to South America, and several resident desert birds — more than 200 species in total. Birding, tours and various educational workshops are free. For family entertainment that falls somewhere between high-flying and bird watching, King Putt (27 Stephanie St., 702-541-6807, kingputtlv.com) boasts on its website that it has the most advanced mini-golf course in the country. Glow-in-the-dark and interactive, the Egyptian-themed course is popular with kiddies, daddies and mummies (forgive me). But, don’t worry, if King Tut freaks you out, you can shoot him with a laser gun. Besides golf, King Putt has laser tag, as well as a generous arcade and a pizzeria. — Chantal Corcoran

Boulder City: History lives

ith its Hoover Dam-building history and absence of casinos, Boulder City is an interesting contrast to Las Vegas. Escape the city and spend a day exploring the quieter side of Southern Nevada with the kids. Start the day at Hemenway Park (401 Ville Drive), where families will find a playground, basketball courts, picnic areas, and a rather conspicuous family of bighorn sheep. Although they sometimes wander up towards the parking lot, you’ll most likely find them sitting on the east side of the park in the shade. The bighorn sheep is the state animal of Nevada, so finding a few to observe in real life should be on every Las Vegas kid’s to-do list. Next, head to Lake Mead and hike the Historical Railroad Tunnel trail. Enjoy

B i r d p r e s e r v e , r a i l r o a d t r a i l , N e va d a way : C h r i s t o p h e r s m i t h ; k i n g p u t t: co u rt e sy k i n g p u t t

sausage bar; reserved seating; and the most current blockbusters. Maybe your family would rather experience adventure than watch it on the big screen. Las Vegas Flight Ventures (lasvegasflightventures.com) lets you experience what it’s like to captain a jet airliner in one of four modern, full-motion simulators — this is the same cool technology that the commercial airlines use. Each cockpit can accommodate a family of four, including the captain; and there is no age requirement, although kids need to be 48 inches tall to be able to see the runway. $399 gets you a 30-minute preflight briefing, and clears you for takeoff and a full hour in the Boeing 737 simulator. Prices climb from there. Think flying’s for the birds? The Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve (35 E. Galleria Drive, 702-267-4180) is a nature-lover’s paradise, attracting serious birders from all over the world. Overlooking nine evaporation ponds from the city’s wastewater reclamation

Be Closer, together

The Episcopal Church supporting families

www.Facebook.com/EpiscopalDioceseNevada

beautiful views of the lake, and enjoy the wildflowers if you visit during the spring. This hike is ideal for families since the trail is wide and relatively flat. Not far into your stroll, you’ll be treated with a dose of history: on the right-hand side of the trail, you’ll see a marker and several large concrete plugs. These served as placeholders during the construction of Hoover Dam and were removed when the turbines were installed into the powerhouse floor. After you’ve finished your hike, drive into historic downtown Boulder City for a stroll down Nevada Way. With plenty of quirky motels, shops and restaurants along the way, it offers a small-town experience that kids growing up in Las Vegas might not get back home. Be sure to notice the sculptures that line the downtown streets, particularly Peter Pan and Babe the Pig by Mary Zimmerman. Stop in at Grandma Daisy’s (530 Nevada Way, 702-294-6639) for a scoop of ice cream or a chocolate turtle. Before you hit the road, visit the Boulder City/Hoover Dam Museum (1305 Arizona St., 702-294-1988), which focuses on the growth of the town and its role in the construction of the dam. Interactive displays describe what life was like for the workers and their families, many of whom had left their hometowns to find work during the Great Depression. If you want to extend your time in Boulder City, plan ahead and book a room at the Boulder Dam Hotel (1305 Arizona St., 702-293-3510), which is owned and operated by the museum. — S.V.

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Eyes on the prize A weekly meeting keeps this family strong (and the trophy motivates the kids) B y A n d r e w K i r a ly

ho will win the Boone Family Child of the Week trophy this Sunday? Will it be Anthony Jr. for continuing to balance his studies with his hectic volleyball schedule? Or maybe Laurel for working hard to make friends at her new middle school? Or maybe Logan or Nigel for keeping their rooms clean, handily passing the random inspections — heralded by the cry of “Room check!” — their mother springs on them throughout the week? Whoever does win gets more than just bragging rights and a weeklong warm fuzzy. The winning child also gets treated to some of dad’s home cooking — perhaps his mythically tasty lasagna, his killer tacos or one of his legendary Boone Burgers. Of course, no matter who wins, everybody wins. “We’re like a bootleg version of The Cosbys,” says Kasina Boone, the straighttalking matriarch of this blended family, aka The First Lady of Booneville. “We talk about everything at our meeting.

P h oto g r a p h y C h e c ko s a lg a d o

Golden rules: From left, Nigel, Kasina, Laurel, Anthony Sr., Logan and Anthony Boone Jr.

We keep it real, we keep it funky, and we don’t sugar-coat anything.” She says the word anything with the heft and brio of a hallelujah — and, indeed, this Sunday-night huddle is as much a part of Boone family life as church. “It keeps the communication lines open between the kids and us, and ensures we’re all on the same page,” says father Anthony Sr. (Kasina, characteristically, is more colorful: “Anthony’s job is to keep Laurel off the pole, and my job is to keep us from being grandparents before we’re 40.”)

A family meeting sounds old-fashioned and maybe even a bit corny in our tech-addled age, but perhaps the old-fashionedness of it is exactly what works so well for the Boones. They realize that, as rapidly as the world is changing, we’re still the flawed, confused, love-hungry humans we’ve always been. (And if you think a family meeting is old-school, consider the Boone’s Saturday-night activities: giggling games of Uno and tie-dyeing T-shirts at the dining room table.)

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The Sunday meeting whose abiding directive is “speak freely” has a few ground rules: No cussing and no piggybacking or “co-signing” on siblings’ issues or complaints, so as to encourage each child to own and articulate his or her own concerns. The meetings grew out of the process of blending their families when Anthony Sr. and Kasina married nearly 10 years ago, after meeting at Legacy High School, where they both work. “She did things her way, and I did things my way, and we had to learn to do it our way. That’s where the meetings come in,” says Anthony Sr. At the weekly huddles, they’ve discussed 13-year-old Logan’s request to get a Facebook account. They’ve discussed Laurel’s reluctance to go to a new school. They’ve even brought up for review Anthony Jr.’s prospective girlfriends — one of whom Kasina warned him away from, to no avail. Anthony dated her until he discovered the girl was two-timing him. (“Do I know my stuff?” Kasina asks Anthony Jr. over a fist-bump.)

She did things her way, and I did things my way, and we had to learn to do it our way. That’s where the meetings come in. The result of these meetings is one very cohesive, communicative, loving family, but the side effects are interesting, too, one of which is the porousness of that very concept of family. “Our motto is if you come over here more than once, you’re family,” says Kasina. Exhibit A: the neighborhood kids floating through the house, hanging around the table, ready to tie-dye some shirts. Perhaps the only downside of the Sunday meeting? It can be more tiring than an Uno marathon. “I like the family meeting. Everybody gets to say what they want to say,” says Laurel. “After that, though, I usually have to take a nap.”

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HOME life

education

Home schooling

nevadahomeschoolnetwork.com

Technically, public school is for everyone — in the sense that it’s free, open to all and provided by the state. But what if it’s not for your child — in the sense that he or she craves a nontraditional type of gray-matter stimulation? In such cases, parents can find navigating the alternatives a daunting and frustrating task. To help, we offer this guide. B y H e i d i k y s e r

D e s e r t c o m pa n i o n Fa m i ly DesertCompanion.com

Charter Schools

charterschools.nv.gov

Affiliation / Accreditation

Parents can buy accredited course packages; several institutions, such as Homeschool.com and the Home Educators Resource Directory, give seals of approval.

Independently operated public schools in CCSD; a sponsor (local school district or state charter school authority) awards the charter, monitors the school and can revoke the charter

Cost

Around $400 per year, per child for supplies, curriculum, tutors, etc.

Free

For the student who…

Has very dedicated, involved parents.

Colors outside the lines.

How it’s done

Varies. Typically, families acquire the curriculum and follow it on their own at home, connecting periodically with other homeschoolers through networks.

Students are held to the same academic standards as other Nevada public schools, but administrators have relative autonomy in curriculum and instruction.

Promise/hype

Individualized attention, customized course work and pace adjusted to the student’s abilities

Freedom to innovate plus accountability to sponsors is supposed to equal higher-quality instruction.

Class size

Based on the number of home-schooled kids in a family

Varies, from full classrooms to at-home distance education

Ages

Nevada law requires coverage of certain subject areas, and parent dec ides what age or grade to cover them in. Child should be ready for college or the workforce by adulthood.

K-12

Notable graduates

Ansel Adams, Louisa May Alcott, Woodrow Wilson

Ice Cube, ballet dancer David Hallberg

What you get

Certificate from accrediting institution or parent

High school diploma

P h oto g r a p h y N a m e G o e s H e r e

Magnet schools / career & technical academies magnet.ccsd.net

Montessori schools amshq.org

Parochial / Private religious schools doe.nv.gov/Topic/ Private_School_page/

Prep / Private independent schools

Public school

doe.nv.gov/Topic/ Private_School_page

ccsd.net

Public schools in CCSD; programs often accredited by affiliated institutions, such as International Baccalaureate or Future Business Leaders of America

American Montessori Society; may also have Nevada State Private School license

Church or religious institution, such as Assembly of God or Islam; private-school organization, such as National Council for Private School Accreditation; Nevada State Private School license

Private-school organization, such as National Association of Independent Schools; Nevada State Private School license

Clark County School District; Nevada Department of Education

School is free, but individual programs, such as aviation, cosmetology and culinary, have associated costs and fees.

Varies (Montessori

Varies, typically a few thousand dollars per year and up

Free

schools are independently operated, not franchises).

A typical range is $5,000 to $12,500 per year.

Likes to take things apart and tinker.

Has a curiosity that goes beyond the conventional classroom.

Believes faith is part of the learning process.

Had bottom-line goals for his lemonade stand.

Wants a classic public education

Blended into or layered on top of standard state education requirements are topic-specific curricula, such as architectural drafting and design, bio-medical studies, computer science or performing arts.

The Montessori curriculum is sequential, accommodating all learning styles, allowing students to progress at their own pace.

Typically, curriculum is provided by an institution affiliated with the church or faith in question.

Nondenominational, nonsectarian, traditional rigorous college preparatory curriculum

State- and district-mandated curriculum, designed to teach students the necessary skills and knowledge for passing standardized tests

College and career preparedness, gained through high-quality, specialized instruction, internships, job shadowing and capstone projects.

Individualized instruction that nurtures the whole person â&#x20AC;&#x201D; intellectually, philosophically, emotionally and spiritually

Academic excellence aligned with religious beliefs and social values

Academic excellence, geared toward college

Quality education for all, provided by the government, at no expense to students

28 students, on average

Varies, typically between a half-dozen and a couple dozen

Smaller than public school; typically, around 20

30-plus

K-12

K-12 available, but many are K-8 or younger

K-12

Matthew Gray Gubler, Kevin Rose, Aaron Turner, Kerwyn Williams

Jeff Bezos, Sean Combs, Gabriel Garcia Marquez

Frank Fertitta III (Bishop Gorman)

Alexandra Epstein (The Meadows School)

Brandon Flowers (Chaparral), Harry Reid (Basic High School)

High school diploma, often with honors and AP credit; certification from affiliated institutions

High school diploma or High school diploma certificate of completion

High school diploma

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cooking

Cook up some fun! Let these recipes draw the whole family into the kitchen — not just to eat, but to help prepare b y Julie Hession

Spiced French Toast Sticks with Orange Maple Syrup

hen you’re a kid, eating food with your hands is 10 times more fun than using proper utensils. In this variation on French toast — perfect for a weekend breakfast treat — the typically messy dish is made into finger-friendly sticks, ready for dipping into sweet maple syrup. Serves 4-6 Ingredients: L

1 -1/4 cups pure maple syrup

1/4 cup orange juice

zest of one small orange 8 thick slices (about 3/4-inch) day-old brioche or Texas toast

4 large eggs

1 cup half-and-half

3 tablespoons granulated sugar

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

generous pinch of salt

2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

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Directions:

1. Prepare the orange maple syrup: Whisk the maple syrup, orange juice and orange zest in a small saucepan set over medium-low heat. Cook until the mixture is hot, whisking occasionally; set aside and keep warm. 2. Prepare the spiced French toast sticks: Cut each slice of bread into three equal strips. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, half-and-half, sugar, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, salt and vanilla. 3. Carefully dip each strip of bread into the egg custard, turning to thoroughly coat and soak up the liquid. Place dipped

bread on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to allow excess liquid to drip off. 4. Melt 2 tablespoons of the butter in a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place sticks of dipped bread in a single layer in the pan or on the griddle. Cook until the sticks are browned on one side, about 3 minutes, and then carefully turn each stick, cooking until all sides are browned and lightly crisp. Repeat the cooking process with the remaining butter and sticks. 5. Serve the sticks alongside warm orange maple syrup.

P h oto g r a p h y C h r i sto p h e r S m i t h

TomatoBasil Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons

t’s hard to beat the classic comfort food combo of grilled cheese and tomato soup … but we can certainly try. Take it to the next level with mini grilled-cheese croutons, enabling your family to enjoy their soup and sandwich in one delicious bite! Serves 4

Ingredients:

Directions:

Tomato-Basil Soup

Grilled Cheese Croutons

1. In a heavy, large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and cook until translucent and softened, stirring frequently, 5-7 minutes. Add the garlic; cook 2 minutes more. 2. Add the tomatoes, stock and tomato paste to the pan and bring the mixture to a boil. 3. Add the sugar and basil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 15 minutes or until the mixture has thickened. 4. Use an immersion blender (handheld stick blender) to purée the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can carefully transfer the mixture to a blender and purée until smooth, then return the soup to the saucepan. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grilled cheese croutons.

1. Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. 2. Place the slices of bread on a work surface and butter one side of each slice. 3. Place two slices on the pan or griddle, buttered sides down. Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of the slices. Top the cheese with the remaining two slices, buttered sides up. 4. Cook until the bottom sides of the sandwiches are golden brown, 3-4 minutes. Carefully flip and cook until the bottoms are golden brown and the cheese has melted (pressing lightly with the back of a spatula to flatten), 3-4 minutes more. 5. Cut the grilled cheese sandwiches into 1 inch squares. Serve atop the tomato-basil soup.

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 medium sweet yellow onions, chopped

1 tablespoon minced garlic

1 (28-ounce) can stewed tomatoes, including juices

3 cups reduced-sodium chicken stock

3 tablespoons tomato paste

2 teaspoons granulated sugar

1 cup coarsely chopped fresh basil

salt and freshly ground black pepper

Grilled Cheese Croutons L

2 tablespoons butter, softened

4 (1/2-inch) slices whole wheat bread

4 -5 ounces shredded sharp cheddar cheese

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cooking

Baked Parmesan Herb Chicken Fingers with Maple Mustard Dipping Sauce

his healthier version of the popular kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; meal bakes up crispy chicken using a mixture of Japanese panko bread crumbs and parmesan cheese. Kids will enjoy shaking the coating onto the strips, a process that is much easier to clean up. Serves 4 Ingredients: Chicken Fingers L

1 cup low-fat buttermilk

2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

1 tablespoon olive oil

2 teaspoons salt, divided

1 -1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken

Directions:

breasts, cut into 3/4-inch strips

1. In a large baking dish, whisk together the buttermilk, mustard, olive oil and 1 teaspoon salt. Add the chicken strips and turn to coat. Cover and chill for 30 minutes, turning once. 2. Place a wire rack over a large baking sheet and spray the rack with nonstick spray. In a large zip-top bag, combine the panko, Parmesan, flour, garlic powder, thyme, oregano, paprika, cayenne (if using) and remaining teaspoon salt, shaking to blend. 3. Preheat the oven to 400 F. 4. Remove a chicken strip from the buttermilk mixture, allowing excess

1 -1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs (found in the Asian foods section of grocery stores)

1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

maple Mustard Sauce L

3/4 cup Dijon mustard

6 tablespoons pure maple syrup

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to drip off. Add the strip to the breadcrumb mixture in the bag. Zip the bag and shake to coat the chicken. Place the strip on the wire rack; repeat the process with remaining chicken strips. 5. Bake the chicken on the wire rack set over the baking sheet, turning over halfway through, until crisp, browned and firm, 15-20 minutes. 6. While chicken is baking, prepare the dipping sauce: Whisk the mustard and maple syrup in a small saucepan over medium-low heat until warmed through. Transfer sauce to a bowl and serve alongside chicken fingers.

Blueberry Lemon Pie Pops in Whole Wheat Crusts

ids love any food on a stick! Inside these palate-pleasing pie pops, sweet blueberries serve as a perfect contrast to tart, lip-puckering lemons. Make them as a fun dessert for your next outdoor picnic or barbecue. Makes 20-24 pops

Ingredients:

blueberry filling

Whole wheat crust

2 cups fresh blueberries

(optional â&#x20AC;&#x201D; may substi-

1/2 cup granulated

tute store-bought pie crust) L

2 cups whole wheat

sugar L

2 teaspoons lemon zest

2 tablespoons lemon

flour L

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 tablespoon granulated sugar

1/2 teaspoon salt

8 ounces cold unsalted

juice L

2 tablespoons cornstarch

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 large egg beaten with

butter, cubed

1 tablespoon water (for

2 large egg yolks

the egg wash)

2 teaspoons cider

vinegar

Lemon glaze

1/2 cup ice water

3 cups confectionersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; sugar whisked with 4-5 tablespoons lemon juice (until glaze is thick but pourable)

Directions:

1. Prepare the crust: In a food processor, pulse the whole wheat and all-purpose flours, sugar and salt to combine. Scatter butter over top and pulse several times, until pieces are the size of peas. 2. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks, vinegar and ice water. Drizzle half the water mixture over the dough and pulse 4 or 5 times to combine. Add more of the mixture, 1 tbsp at a time, pulsing after each addition until the dough holds together in moist clumps. 3. Transfer the dough to a large piece of plastic wrap and shape it into a ball. Flatten the dough into a disk and wrap it tightly in plastic. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour and up to 2 days. 4. Prepare the filling: In a medium bowl, mix together blueberries, sugar, lemon zest, juice, cornstarch and cinnamon. Set aside. 5. Divide the chilled dough into two pieces, one slightly larger than the other. On a lightly floured work surface, roll out the smaller piece to slightly thicker than 1/16-inch. Using a 3-inch round cutter, cut as many rounds as possible. Transfer the rounds to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them apart. Reroll scraps as necessary and continue cutting.

6. Press the end of a wooden or paper lollipop stick into the bottom half of each round. 7. Roll out the larger piece of dough as in Step 5. Using a slightly larger (3-1/2 inch) round cutter, cut out an equal number of rounds, rerolling scraps as necessary. 8. Brush the smaller rounds with the egg wash and place a generous tablespoon of blueberry filling in the center of each. Top each with a larger round, pressing edges firmly to seal. Crimp around the edges with a fork. 9. Place the pie pops on baking sheets in the freezer for 30 minutes. Meanwhile, position oven racks in the upper and lower thirds positions and preheat oven to 375 F. 10. When ready to bake, use the tip of a knife to poke 3 or 4 holes in each top crust. Bake pops for 22-25 minutes, switching positions of baking sheets halfway through, until tops are puffed and browned. 11. Let pops cool on baking sheets 5 minutes, then drizzle with lemon glaze. Let glaze set 10 minutes before serving.

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gathering

GATHER â&#x20AC;&#x2122;round In their own words, families reflect on the places where they work, play and share their lives

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Growth industry: From left, Molly, Tiffany, Madison and John Whisenant

The family that gardens together The WhisenantS

iffany: The backyard sold us on the house. Before we moved in, we came here several times and sat on the back porch swing. We pictured the garden. I watched how the sun moved across the yard. We moved in around Christmas time, because I wanted to get the seedlings going by February. … On Sundays, we roll out of bed and take it slowly, because we’re all so busy throughout the week. Madison makes pancakes, and we head out to the backyard, feed the

chickens, take care of what we need to do. The girls play, climb trees; I’m in the garden … John: I’m Mr. Fix-It. That’s my job! It’s been a really productive garden. We had this massive Purple Cherokee tomato plant out there that was taller than me and wider than I could stretch my arms. Best tomatoes I ever tasted. Tiffany: The girls cook with us a lot. We’ll have them go out and pick vegetables for dinner, or some herbs. They save seeds with me. Molly can identify pretty much any vegetable or fruit. She tastes everything. They won’t eat carrots unless

they come out of my garden. John: It’s not how the garden fits into our family; it’s how our family fits into it. I started playing drums when I was 19, because I wanted to do something for work that I love. Then, I decided to take it a step further and get a job fishing. Tiffany getting a job gardening (she’s general manager of Garden Farms of Nevada) fit into our ideal of not having crappy jobs that you hate. It’s important to show the girls that you don’t have to be stuck. You can make a living doing what you love. — as told to Heidi Kyser

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Table mates: From left: Chantal, Barry, Grace, Sarah, and Chris Corcoran

gathering

A Peaceful Place for gathering, Laughter & Food The Corcorans

n the early ’40s, when both their sons left for war, my husband’s great-grandfather bought his wife this beautiful dining set. An odd consolation gift, I think now, a bit of a gamble, considering that two of those chairs would sit empty for some time — possibly forever. But I don’t know the circumstances. Perhaps she was mourning the newly empty chairs at her current table, and he thought a new set would help. Perhaps her fear and heartbreak only added to his, and he had to do something, anything, to try to cheer her; perhaps she’d been eyeing the set for years. Or perhaps it was optimism that inspired the elaborate purchase: Sure-

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ly, if he bought such an exquisite piece, his boys would come home, the family would gather, a celebration would ensue. My husband’s grandfather, Hurricane Harry (so nicknamed for the planes he flew with the British Air Force) and his brother, both did return, but first Harry’s plane would be shot down; first he would be declared missing in action while he wandered alone, for seven days, in the barren desert; first his parents would receive that telegraph, a calling card from their worst nightmare. So, we can well imagine that meal when, finally, their children came together, again, to feast on roast pork, creamed carrots and peas and homemade jelly rolls. “And tea, tea was always served,” says my mother-in-law, who as a small girl would play under that table only a few years later, while the growing family

flourished and reveled in food, stories and song. A generation later, it would be a boy hiding under the table, eavesdropping on the delicious conversations of his parents and grandparents — the boy who would eventually be my husband. Then, 60 years after those first full gatherings, it would be our turn. Our kids beneath the table, playing with toy cars, while we welcomed family and friends, poured wine, talked until midnight — our feet on the carpet, pillows for little heads. That seems like yesterday, and now only our dog Shadow properly fits beneath the table. They’re growing so fast. The children last as long as we do now, in their chairs; sometimes they’re up even later. Soon, it will be their turn. I’ll oil the wood, have the chairs refurbished. — Chantal Corcoran

Grill out: Sha Rhonda Ramos, and Deven and Dwane Crawford

Cooking up a family reunion Sha rhonda ramos

e moved into our house in December 2007, and we didn’t have a grill. We knew that barbecuing is what brings a family together, so we got a charcoal grill from Lowe’s. My mom’s whole side of the family is French Creole, from the South, and she and my godfather, Hugh Jones, just didn’t think that grill was right. They thought, “If we could find one of those barrel grills, it would be so much better for cooking catfish.” I’m not even sure where it came from. Dwane and I came home one day and my godfather and his friend were dragging it through the house to the back yard. We had a monsoon party in July, so everybody came over to break it in. It was supposed to be for my mom, but her yard and house are smaller than ours, so whenever it’s time to barbecue, everybody fits here: my mom and her significant other; my sister and her significant other and son; my godfather and his wife and their four children, who are all grown and have children — every family gathering is at least a dozen people. We’ll say, "We’re barbecuing on Sunday," and we know everybody is going to come. In a way, it’s the family barbecue, but it’s at our house. My sister can do more on it than anyone, but my mom claims it’s hers, so whenever we barbecue, she comes over, just to make sure we’re doing it right. — Sha Rhonda Ramos, as told to Heidi Kyser

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FOR THEATRE-LOVING KIDS

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Working it out An unorthodox couple finds grace in the challenges of co-parenting b y H e i d i K ys e r

Custom blend: Clockwise from top left, Diana England (with Lucy), Tammy and Leah Goodrich, Logan and Audrey England

P h oto g r a p h y C h e c ko s a lg a d o

amily life now commonly comes with challenges that were exceptional a couple generations ago: divorced parents, joint custody, twohome arrangements. Diana England and Tammy Goodrich have all these, plus some other potentially complicating factors: They’re a same-sex former couple who adopted their children, Audrey and Logan, birth-siblings now 7 and 6 years old, respectively. But rather than treating their particular circumstances like a problem, England and Goodrich use them as motivation to dial up their commitment to co-parenting in a harmonious environment that allows both families to thrive. “I had always wanted children,” Goodrich says. She was in her late 30s and England in her late 40s when the couple began to talk about their options for having a family. England suggested adoption, and they launched the intense, yearlong process that included nine weeks of classes, stacks of paperwork, a formal domestic partnership and a deep reserve of resolve. “We made friends with everybody,” England says, “case workers, counselors, other parents, fos-

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ter parents. We networked. And we really worked the network.” Their perseverance brought them Audrey, then 15 months old. Fostering quickly turned to adoption, and two months later, they had her 5-day-old brother, Logan, too. All at once, a family was born. Two children was not the original plan. “It was hard,” says England. “Your whole world is changing. In three weeks, I haven’t worked out, I haven’t slept, I haven’t walked my dogs … I said, ‘You go pick (Logan) up. I have to go to work.’” Goodrich resumes the story: “I had him when Diana got home, and she probably walked around the house for 15 minutes before she even looked at him. I think she was in shock.” Today, England says, she’d do it all again. From the beginning of the end of their relationship, the pair tried to lessen the impact on the kids. They took separate bedrooms in the same house for more than a year; eventually, England moved out — but to a house only two blocks away. Goodrich, a bartender, would pick the kids up from school and get them started on their homework. When England would get home from work, she’d take the kids for dinner and bedtime, then drop them off at school in the morning. Both moms would attend school events, karate, the kids' plays. They worked out a schedule. They worked together. “We’re no different than heterosexual couples that separate,” Goodrich says. Which is to say, it wasn’t always easy. Communication, consistency and counseling: These are England and Goodrich’s keys to keeping the peace. They swear by the professional help they get in weekly sessions, saying it taught them the importance of having similar rules and backing each other up on disciplinary matters. No matter how frustrated they may get with each other, they keep calm in front of the kids, knowing they can always duke it out in the counselor’s office later. “If you’re committed to your kids and their having a healthy life,” England says, “then you just have to work through it. We’ve seen the difference the right approach makes, and it’s worth it.”

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The kid’s got talent These prodigies are off to a fast start thanks to their natural gifts — and supportive parents

Annick Haczkiewicz

This queen of the greens might be future golf royalty

hirteen-year-old Annick Haczkiewicz (hutch-kuh-veech) has a regular Friday night skins game that is anything but regular: “I play with a bunch of older guys that are like 80 years old and stuff, and we play for money,” she says, and often enough, Haczkiewicz wins. The older fellows like to give each other the gears about losing to a small girl, but really you can’t blame ’em — Haczkiewicz has a 2 handicap and a killer short game. She took up golf when she was only 8. The draw? The furry little bunnies that hopped about the course, and the chance to spend time with dad. Eventually, she joined group classes at her favorite course, Angel Park. For a while she found herself a coach, Brandon Stooksbury, until he took a job in Georgia a year ago. Since then she’s been without a coach. Now, it’s just her and dad again. They practice every day for 2 or 3 hours; then Haczkiewicz has league games on Thursdays and Fridays; and she plays tournaments, too. It’s a regimen that works for her. In March, as

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Hole lotta talent: Annick Haczkiewicz

one of the youngest in the 13-18-yearold division, Haczkiewicz won the PGA Southwest Nevada Ping Junior Series — for the second year in a row. She’s also qualified to play in the 2014 Callaway Junior World Golf Championship in San Diego. And last year, she placed fourth at the TaylorMade World Masters of Junior Golf. Support system: “I’m not trying to be a coach, I’m just trying to be a practice partner. We correct each other,” says her dad, Marek Haczkiewicz, who wants nothing more than for his daughter to continue to enjoy the game. Both Marek and his wife Ursula were child

athletes — he a trampolinist in Poland and she a Canadian gymnast; they met on the Cirque du Soleil circuit — who’ve seen, up close, what happens when parents push their kids too hard. “My goal is just to keep her in love with the sport, so she doesn’t burn out — because it’s really a physical and mental game.” The future’s so bright: Haczkiewicz has grander ambitions. “I really want to go to the 2015 Olympics in Rio. And I want to play in the LPGA.” Although, in the short term, the eighth-grader is hoping to join Palo Verde High School’s team, and maybe win a few more bucks from the old guys. — Chantal Corcoran

P h oto g r a p h y C h r i sto p h e r S m i t h

Painter of promise: Jonah Jakin Schoenmann

Jonah Jakin Schoenmann There’s nothing abstract about this boy’s painting talent

rt is freedom, baby! “Being a child,” 10-year-old painter Jonah Jakin Schoenmann says with disarming candor, “I’m basically owned by my parents.” Who are sitting there as he says it. He smiles. “When I’m painting is the one time no one can tell me what to do.” He shuts himself into his play room, turns on cartoons for inspiration — “The Simpsons,” “Adventure Time” and “The Regular Show” being his favorites — and paints. No parents allowed! Oh, sometimes he’ll ask what they think of a piece. “They’ll say, ‘Good job! Don’t change it.’ I change it. I paint over it three or four times.” Only he knows when something is finally finished and right. The result of his process: surprisingly lively, sophisticated abstract canvases, kinetic with molten colors from his car-

toon-infatuated palette. He may be a kid, but plenty of smart people don’t dismiss his work as kid stuff. If you visited the Art Odyssey at October’s Life is Beautiful Festival — a motel repurposed with rooms of carefully selected art — you saw some of his pieces alongside those of far more established artists, including Chuck Close. “I gotta tell you something,” Odyssey coordinator Patrick Duffy told the Las Vegas Sun at the time, “this Jonah has an incredible capture of color and composition. He just blows my freakin’ mind.” Hands off: How would his mom, Kate Hausbeck Korgan, advise parents who want to help nurture and direct their kids’ talents? “I’d take the word ‘direct’ out of that sentence,” she says. She and her husband, Todd Korgan, a director of commercial videos, know better than to smother Jonah. They’re not all, Time to paint, son! “I’ve seen so many stage moms ruin their child’s talent by forcing it, pressuring them to do well,” he says. “We’re the exact opposite of that,” adds Kate, in-

terim dean of UNLV's Graduate College. Their policy of noninterference gives Jonah the mental elbow room he needs. The family does maintain a creative household — nonstandard wall colors, art hanging prominently — and makes his art a priority. If he’s invited to do something with his artwork, and he wants to, “We make that happen,” she says — canceling plans, whatever it takes. The future is a blank canvas: Though it made him nervous to imagine thousands of Life is Beautiful attendees seeing — and judging — his work (“Ooh yes, oh, oh yes, I thought a lot about that. What if people don’t like it?”) he enjoyed the experience. He met a lot of people, heard good things: “I was speechless,” Jonah says. “I still am speechless — surprised that so many people liked a 10-year-old’s art.” Maybe it’ll become a career. Who knows? “I can’t really tell what the future holds,” he says. “But I know I’ll always paint.” — Scott Dickensheets

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Bryce Beckman

Of this second-grader’s many occupations, math comes the most naturally

t 7 years old, your average kid is still mastering addition and subtraction. Bryce Beckman isn’t your average kid. He has completed all the math challenges given him by Candace Makowski, his teacher at Mabel Hoggard Math and Science Magnet School, and is whizzing through advanced math, including fractions. Ask him why it’s his favorite subject, and he’ll reply, “Because it’s easy.” Then ask why he thinks that is: “I’ve been practicing.” ‘No tiger mom’: Valerie Chang and Gary Beckman expose their son to many activities, from swim team to cultural festivals, hikes to museums, so as not to pigeonhole him. Still, with Bryce scoring in the 97th percentile nationwide for math aptitude on last year’s standardized tests, they know they’re dealing with a special talent. He started at Mabel Hoggard already ahead of his peers, having taken classes at Talent Bilingual Education Academy, which stresses math, since the age of 3. And his parents reinforce his natural ability by giving him games such as Sum Dog to play, and by including Brain Quest in his bedtime reading. “Whatever he does, I tell him to try his best,” says Taiwan-born Chang. “I’m no tiger mom. If he comes in last, but he tried his best, I tell him it’s okay.” Future Bobby Fischer? Don’t be surprised to see Bryce Beckman’s face someday on the cover of Chess Life magazine. Since joining a kids’ chess club in October, he’s won first place in two weekly competitions. — Heidi Kyser

Kayla Quijano

She found the cello — or did it find her?

hen Kayla Quijano plays cello, she bows her head, causing long, dark bangs to veil half her face. Maybe she’s concealing the emotions she says she channels to bring compositions to life — something she does

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Music maker: Kayla Quijano

remarkably well for a 12-year-old. “Music means everything to me,” she says, without an iota of drama. Her natural gift is apparent to Lindsey Springer, orchestra teacher at K.O. Knudson Middle School, but it’s Quijano’s dedication that earned her a spot as soloist for the orchestra’s festival competition, where it received a perfect score in March. The same month, she won the opportunity to play a solo in a concert by the Nevada Chamber Symphony. Everything a miracle: When Richard Quijano and ex-wife Charissa Ching, Kayla’s mom, encouraged their daughter to take up an instrument three years ago, they assumed it would be guitar, which they both play. But inspired by Japanese cellist-vocalist Kanon Wakeshima, whose music appears in the anime film “Vampire Knight,” Kayla chose cello. “She was such an ill child that any time she’d get involved in something, it was like a

miracle to us,” her father says, referring to a severe respiratory illness that sent his newborn to the ER repeatedly during her first year of life. Private cello lessons at the Nevada School of the Arts led Kayla to a seat in the Las Vegas Youth Orchestra and enrollment at Knudson, a magnet school for the arts. And the music doesn’t end with the school day. The family occasionally jams together in the Quijano living room, where the bare floors and instrument set — scarcely a piece of traditional furniture to be found — make it seem like a mini-concert venue. Sharing the gift: Kayla (who now also plays guitar, ukulele and violin) hopes to someday teach music and perform outside school, as her teachers do now. “Sometimes I think about not doing cello anymore and trying different things,” she says, “and that makes me sad, because cello is my life. It is.” — H.K

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Are we Candy Crushing our kids?

he iPotty — I’m not making this up — is a toilet training seat that looks like a small school desk, on which an iPad replaces the desktop. Or there’s Fisher Price’s Apptivity seat for newborns and toddlers — a baby bouncer with an iPad mount. It’s also a real thing. Both products are flying off the shelves as fast as any of the latest tech gadgetry for adults. This, despite the American Academy of Pediatrics recommendations that children 6-18 have only two hours of media a day; children 3-5, no more than an hour; and children under 2 should get no screen time at all. It’s a wired world out there. AAP guidelines notwithstanding, the fact remains that today’s children, aged 8 to 18, average more than seven hours

a day in front of their TVs, cell phones, computers and tablets. (This according to a 2010 Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation study.) How bad is that for our kids? Objective consensus can be hard to find. I asked six experts on the subject of kids, play and technology what all of this screen time is doing to our children, and they threw up their hands. Some made alarming references to the vast experiment we’re in the midst of. (While it’s true that every generation grows up in a world different than the last, the landscape has never been quite as foreign as that of cyberspace.) Parents are uncertain, too. In March, when Cris Rowan, a pediatric therapist and expert on the impact of technology on neurological development, published

When it comes to kids and tech, no one knows how much is too much — but it’s clear all these screens are changing them story by C h a n ta l C o r c o r a n illustration by C h r i s m o r r i s

on Huffington Post a list of “10 Reasons Why Handheld Devices Should Be Banned for Children Under the Age of 12” — reasons that included delayed development, epidemic obesity and radiation dangers — many parents agreed (it was shared 400,000 times on Facebook), but many others reacted with the wrath of Angry Birds. The fact is, we like our tech. A lot. But what is living in this hyper-digital age doing to our kids? How is it shaping the way they behave, play and learn? Can we as parents really manage our kids’ gadget time? For that matter, can we control our own media overuse for the good of our children? NOBODY REALLY KNOWS

confession: My son was among this seven-hour group — the kids who spend as much as seven hours a day on their screens. I’d often wring my hands, while he remained parked in front of the big screen, racing cars, blowing things up, building worlds and chatting, while one hour rolled into the next. Like so many of today’s youth, he found friends online when he was heartbreakingly alone in the 3-D world. To limit this minimal socialization with other middle-school kids seemed wrong. It’s where kids hang out today, I surmised. I rationalized.

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What do I know of parenting in this we know them by their initials; and denied access to technology — “Many of cyber-age, anyway? depression is growing so rampantly the careers, many of our life needs will Indeed, what does anyone know? that the World Health Organization be technology-driven, and children who Four days after Rowan’s call-to-ban predicts it will overtake cardiovascudo not have more facile and seamless went up on Huffington Post, Dr. Dimitri access will be forever disadvantaged” — lar disease as the primary disability of Christakis, a member of the executive equals the concerns expressed by Row- people as of 2016. committee of the AAP Council on Chil- an and Dunckley for children who are What Dunckley has discovered in dren and Media, published a somewhat her clinical practice is that many of too plugged in. different take in JAMA (Journal of the Still, the mother of three, Cusack con- the symptoms she associates with ESS American Medical Association) Pediat- cedes, “I know controlling screen time mimic the symptoms of many common rics. In “Time to Rethink the American psychiatric disorders. So, before she at home can be a challenge.” Academy of Pediatrics Guideline?,” he diagnoses her young patients, she preThe one thing the experts all agree explains that research can’t possibly scribes a three- to six-week screen fast. on: Balance is imperative, and seven keep up with the speed of technological “And generally, the child is in a better hours is too much. advancement. While he and his council mood. They can pay attention. They can CHANGING MINDS peers continue to study the impact of do their homework. They’re following unckley points to several studies new technologies on the development directions. They’re sleeping better. Evin “Gray Matters: Too Much Screen of children, it will be years before they erything across the board is better.” Time Damages the Brain,” an artihave “robust data about their effects.” Her theory about video gaming, or cle she wrote for Psychology Today. Ac- any prolonged stimulus-response screen However, he does plainly state that it cording to these studies (which Cusack is now his opinion — although not the time, is that it causes a stress response official stance of the AAP — “that judi- cautions aren’t yet definitive) the brains that shifts the activity in the brain from cious use of interactive media is accept- of gaming addicts show: atrophy in the higher thinking centers to lower, more gray matter area which governs tasks able for children younger than the age of primitive centers. “So your brain is funclike planning and critical thinking; com- tioning in survival mode, which is fight 2 years.” promised integrity in the white matter Wait. What? or flight. You’re not thinking clearly. which affects internal communication Meanwhile, Dr. Victoria Dunckley, an You’re just reacting from an instinctual within the brain; impaired cognitive integrative child psychologist, has coined defensive position. So it really mimics functioning; altered dopamine produc- chronic stress,” says Dunckley. the term Electric Screen Syndrome (ESS) to describe a compilation of mood, cogni- tion; and impaired dopamine receptors — And suddenly I recall my nephew, 12 creating cravings for more gaming. When tive and behavioral symptoms caused by years earlier, a 6-year-old rough-andwe spoke, Dunckley also noted that mel- tumble boy who liked nothing more too much screen time. “I don’t know at atonin — which signals the brain to sleep what point you can say it’s irrefutable, but than to wrestle with the big kids. One the evidence is mounting that too much — is suppressed in the serious gamer’s day, they let him play video games, and screen time is resulting in brain changes,” brain, as well as serotonin, which affects after 30 minutes at the controls, he was mood and anxiety. says Dunckley. She’s in Rowan’s camp; red in the face and drenched in sweat, as Her biggest concern is how such alter- if he’d been rough-housing for hours. her screen time recommendations are ations might damage the brain of a child, stricter than even the AAP’s. “Are you okay?” I had to ask several which is still rapidly developing during Then there’s Sue Cusack, an assistant times before I caught his attention. professor in the educational technolo- those first 12 years. “Ya, ya.” His little voice batted me “We can draw from other addiction gy department at Lesley University, to away. remind us of the many incredible bene- studies. Like in teenagers with alcohol I recognized then that he was totally abuse, there are changes in the frontal fits of this computer age. Cusack is the stressed out and I knew, instinctively, mother of a boy with severe cerebral pal- lobe that are permanent because the that the frenzied state he was in was unfrontal lobe is developing during these sy who, with the aid of computers, has healthy — but I felt powerless to stop it. years. For screen time, I think one pos- Technology had arrived in the world’s been able to access both community and itive thing is that there’s no actual toxin education. “If this was 40 years ago, he’d playroom. What could I do to stop it? in the brain, like you have with drugs or probably be warehoused in a sheltered DO AS I SAY, NOT AS I DO alcohol. But it’s also a lot harder to be workshop,” she says. ight years ago, before I owned an abstinent from technology, in our world.” Cusack advocates for technology in iPhone, I was out to dinner with my Some observable truths: Disorders schools; she maintains that computers family. At the next table was a father like ADD, ADHD and OCD are so allow for kids to be creatively expressive and his daughter. She was maybe 4, in prevalent among children today that in new ways. Her concern for children

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a pretty dress, and ribbons in her hair. While she ate her meal and chatted enthusiastically, her father nodded — but mostly he thumbed the screen of his Blackberry. Once she’d graduated to ice cream, he turned toward the window, and the conversation pressed at his ear, and I watched as she grew more and more desperate for his attention. Her animated chatter escalated to singing and dancing, between the tables then up on her chair; she took long licks of the window he stared out of; tugged at his sleeve; then cried for the jerky shrug of his arm, his pointing finger, his glaring eye; until, spent, she laid herself to rest on the carpet beneath the table. “When you are out with our children,” I raised my finger to my own device-toting husband, “I expect that you are caring for them and tending to them, not to your little toy.” I was furious! And I was forecasting. Flash forward to January 2014 when, according to the Pew Research Internet Project, 90 percent of American adults carry cell phones; 58 percent have smartphones; and 42 percent own tablets, and suddenly that same scene is playing out in restaurants and living rooms across the country. Flash forward and even I have shushed my children to catch up on my latest emails or the Facebook posts of people I didn’t even like in high school. A recent Boston Medical Center study of the impact of smartphones on the parent-child relationship, describes children physically raising their parents’ faces to get their attention, and parents kicking kids under the table for interrupting screen time. As a result of her findings, BMC’s Dr. Jenny Radesky is working with the AAP to create guidelines for smartphone usage in front of children. But, considering consumer demands for iPotties and Apptivity seats, do AAP suggestions really matter? According to a 2013 national study by the Center on Media and Human Development at Northwestern University, almost 40 percent of American adults

practice, creative playtime could be lost altogether. Even without technology, children have exceedingly less free-play time than they used to. Classrooms are more structured; recesses are fewer and shorter; and even on the home front, parents stress homework and organized activities more than in previous eras. Furthermore, as The Atlantic recently reported in “The Overprotected Kid,” our preoccupations with safety have robbed our children of the sort of exploratory, independent and widely imaginative play that we reveled in as youngsters. Hanna Rosin, who authored the piece, blames sensationalism in media and a sue-happy culture for the fear that inspired Generation X to always keep Generation Y within arm’s reach and, consequently, often indoors — where the outlets happen to be. While Rosin doesn’t much mention toys, it can’t be denied the multibillion dollar toy industry has had a major impact on the way kids play today. My mothGAME CHANGERS er-in-law fondly remembers attaching ut, for the young child, dancing and bobby pins together to create tiny, skirteven window-licking are enriching ed dolls she would dance across the floor. experiences, learning opportunities. I spent hours designing homes for Barbie: Dr. Nancy Carlsson-Paige, a Lesley album covers made walls and ceilings; a University professor emerita and an- stack of paperbacks, a bed. But to enterother expert on the impact of media on tain my daughter: a plastic castle for Dora children, reminds us in a Washington and interactive furniture to fill it. Post article that decades of research But was she really entertained? Now confirm that kids learn through direct that I think about it, Dora’s castle never play and hands-on experiences. “They saw much play. My daughter certainly need to manipulate objects physically, didn’t spend the time with it that I spent engage all their senses, and move and repurposing household objects for Barinteract with the 3-dimensional world. bie’s use. This is what maximizes their learn“Play that’s scripted by toys, by meing and brain development. A lot of dia characters or by the expectations the time children spend with screens of parents and other adults, means that takes away time from the activities we the self-organized free play of children know they need for optimal growth,” is pretty much non-existent,” says Dr. she says. Stuart Brown, founder of the National It’s simple math: If children are Institute for Play and an expert on play’s sleeping for nine hours; in school for history, adding that this scripted play six; then on video games for as many as “focuses the attention of the kid away seven, that leaves precious little time from their own imaginative side and for hands-on play in the physical world. into being repetitive and kind of linear.” If those remaining hours are reserved What of programmed screen play, for homework, piano lessons or soccer then, which is for the most part repetispend as much as 11 hours a day on their screens. A 2011 Telenav survey indicates that 40 percent of iPhone users would rather give up their toothbrushes than their phones. Rowan suspects that the parents angered by her Huff-Po call-to-ban either assumed she was rejecting technology overall for children, and not just the handheld devices; or they felt accused of being overusers of tech. “Parents set the pace for tech use. It’s never a kid issue when we’re looking at tech overuse. It’s a family endemic issue,” says Rowan. She suggests that parents are assuaging their guilt about their own addictions “by putting kids on it.” Perhaps — but, as a bonus, there’s certainly less of that maddening sleeve-yanking and face-raising. Surely, if the young ribbon-haired girl had had her own iPad, the scene would have played out altogether differently — there would have been no window-licking, no dancing, either.

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tive and generally, although not always, linear? As with all questions about technology, as pertains to its effect on children, the evidence is inconclusive. One 2011 Michigan State University study of 12-year-olds found that the more children engaged with video games, the more creative they were in writing and drawing. Another similar study at the College of William and Mary found creativity in 300,000 children and adults had been steadily rising until 1990, when it suddenly took a downturn — technology is thought to be at the root of this. It seems that for every study that considers kids and technology, there is another to dispute its findings. Like Christakis writes: “It will be years before we have robust data.” In my home, despite plenty — too much even — screen time, there seems to be no lack of imagination. When my

daughter isn’t playing Flappy Bird or watching television, she’s teaching to a whole class of imaginary kids in her bedroom. My son writes scripts and uses his high-tech video camera to make movies in which the family stars. My teenage girl creates old school: poetry in ink. SOCIAL ISSUES

ut what I have noticed is that too much screen time seems to stunt children, socially. Brown of the National Play Institute confirms that the era of the pickup game is virtually gone and, with it, the naturally occurring play settings inherent to all previous generations — where children of mixed ages came together to govern in-game; where they learned complicated social skills fundamental to survival. “The effects of that are huge,” says Brown, “in that within those naturally

occurring play settings (are) the roots of empathy, the nuanced ability to sort of know what your own skills are, the capacity to deal with being excluded and then included.” These settings in which previous generations have learned how to behave in groups; in which we measured ourselves against our peers, also helped us to know ourselves. Self-identity is a tricky enough business in the tween and teen years, and from what I’ve witnessed in my own family, it becomes even more difficult when screen time prevents kids from interacting with each other in the physical world. It’s easy to see how the problem is compounded when technology maims family interaction, when children begin to recognize that screens take precedence to them. Not only will this cripple their

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self-esteem, but it teaches them to place considerable value on their own screens. MODELING GOOD TECHNOLOGICAL BEHAVIOR

he fact is that while they proceed with their studies and while they rally for their opposing causes, the experts agree more than they disagree, and they all say too much screen time is damaging to a child’s growth and development. They all say it’s imperative to balance screen time with other physical, creative and outdoor activities for optimal physical, mental and emotional health. How, then, to manage our kids’ technology use in this hyper-digital age? Tech-free family meals, tech-free periods and tech-free zones in the home are a good start. Getting outside, away from the outlets, is another fine idea.

But what about the lot of us who are ourselves addicted to our own devices? I’m reminded of those parents in the seventies who tucked lit cigarettes behind their backs and blew smoke from the side of their mouths to preach to us the dangers of nicotine. We know that “Do as I say, not as I do” parenting methodologies don’t work. Like the smoking parents of our youth, we need to kick our own habits, first, in order to model good screen behavior — and better screen etiquette, for that matter. In her forthcoming book, The Gift of Failure: How the Best Parents Learn to Let Go So Their Children Can Succeed, Jessica Lahey, who writes for The Atlantic and The New York Times on parenting and education, promotes self-regulation in children. In this digital age, it’s a skill that’s as important as ever.

But even Lahey admits that, where video games are concerned, things get challenging because the programs are designed to perpetuate play, there are no built-in stopping places. She advises setting clear expectations and teaching children to self-regulate through those expectations, as opposed to hovering and nagging, “Because nagging is sort of the enemy of self-regulation,” she says. In her home, when her boys use more than their allotted tech time, they lose the following day’s screen privileges. Approaching the end of the New Hampshire winter — which is as long as a Nevada summer — Lahey confesses that it’s been hard to find things to do besides Minecraft but, she says, that’s a part of figuring out how to entertain themselves, without the screen. “That’s part of using their imaginations.”

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AMUSEMENTS

King Putt Entertainment Center 27 S. Stephanie St., Henderson, 702541-6807; kingputtlv.com Boasting more animations, pneumatics and interactive props than any other mini-golf course, this indoor Egyptian-themed black light course is unique and challenging. Also featured at the center is a laser tag arena where guests can explore multiple levels of an Egyptian pyramid with sophisticated laser tag equipment, an arcade and a pizzeria. 2 p.m.-10 p.m. Mon.-Thurs.; noon-1 a.m. Fri.; 10 a.m.-1 a.m. Sat.; and 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Sun.; $5$8.50 per person for one round.

King Putt Indoor Mini-Golf 7230 W. Lake Mead Blvd., Las Vegas, 702-823-1519; kingputtlv.com This 18-hole indoor mini-golf course takes visitors through a winding black-lit jungle of exotic animals then submerges them into an underwater world. An arcade with air hockey, driving games and prize-earning games are also onsite. 2 p.m.-10 p.m. Tues.-Thurs.; noon-midnight Fri.; 10 a.m.-midnight Sat.; 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Sun.; $5-$9 per person for one round.

KISS by Monster Mini Golf 4503 Paradise Road, Las Vegas, 702558-6256; monsterminigolf.com/kiss Play miniature golf under black lights in this indoor KISS-themed glow-in-the-dark course featuring 18 holes surrounded by animatronic figures, exaggerated replicas and hit music of the iconic band, as well as a huge Gene Simmons head sculpture complete with outstretched tongue. The facility also offers arcade games, a gift shop, café and first-ofits-kind wedding chapel. 10 a.m.- midnight daily; $11.95 per person for each round.

Las Vegas Mini Gran Prix 1401 N. Rainbow Blvd., Las Vegas, 702259-7000; lvmgp.com At a total of 7 acres, the Las Vegas Mini Gran Prix provides a variety of family amusements. Having the longest go-cart track in Nevada, it offers rides for all ages, including four go-cart tracks with 80 carts. Also available at this family fun center are four amusement rides, arcade games and

a 600-seat restaurant serving pizza, ribs, chicken and more. You can book birthday or corporate parties in a 7,000-square-foot party room here, too. 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Sun.Thurs. and 10 a.m.-11 p.m. Fri.-Sat. (hours vary seasonally); $7.50 each for one to four tickets or $21.50 per person for one-hour Mega-Ride wristbands.

Pinball Hall of Fame

golf course is designed for kids, families and seasoned golfers alike. On Friday and Saturday nights, from sundown until midnight, the park turns into the only place in the city to play cosmic mini-golf, where players putt glow-in-the-dark balls into illuminated cups located throughout the course. The park also hosts birthday parties, fundraisers, corporate events, business outings, and leagues are offered. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Mon.-Thurs.; 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Fri.; and 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Sat.; $8.50 (13+); $7.50 (6-12 and 55+); free (under 5); annual passes also available.

1610 E. Tropicana Ave., Las Vegas, pinballhalloffame@msn.com; pinballmuseum.org At 10,000 square feet and exhibiting the world’s largest pinball collection, this dedicated museum features wall-towall popular pinball machines from the 1950s through the 1990s that have been restored to like-new condition, as well as a few retro arcade games like Super Mario Brothers. But the best part is, visitors can play all the machines for 25 or 50 cents each, and since the PHoF is nonprofit, all excess revenue goes to nondenominational charities, such as The Salvation Army of Las Vegas. 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Sun.-Thurs.; 11 a.m.-midnight Fri.-Sat.; free admission.

Silver Nugget Casino, 2140 Las Vegas Blvd. N., North Las Vegas, 702-399-1111; luckysilvergaming.com/bowlingparties If you’re looking for family fun on a budget, this 24-lane AMF bowling facility features $1 games, automatic scoring, cosmic bowling on Fridays and Saturdays, an arcade and air hockey tables, a snack bar and pro shop. 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Sun.-Thurs. and 9 a.m.-midnight Fri.-Sat.; games starting at $1.

Pole Position Raceway Indoor Karting

Sky Zone Indoor Trampoline Park

4175 S. Arville St., 702-227-7223; polepositionraceway.com/las-vegas Pole Position features 1/4-mile track, high-performance electric European carts for adults that can get up to 45 mph and side-by-side racing action. Also available are junior carts that get up to 25 mph for kids who are at least 48 inches tall. Several indoor racing options are offered, including the popular Arrive & Drive that allows walk-in customers to race on a first-come, first-served basis. Or sign up for one of the raceway’s public events. 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Sun.-Thurs.; 11 a.m.-midnight Fri.-Sat.; $25.50 per person nonmembers, $20 per person members; $22 per person nonmembers, $18 per person members; $5.95 temporary race license valid for one week. All minors must have waiver signed by parent or guardian to race.

7440 Dean Martin Drive, Suite 201, Las Vegas, 702-560-5900; skyzone.com/ lasvegas The original indoor trampoline park, Sky Zone is the world’s first all-trampoline walled playing court. The park offers open jump, the Foam Zone, low-impact SkyRobotics fitness classes that combine calisthenics, core exercises and strength-building aerobics, 3-D dodgeball and the SkySlam basketball court that’s great for most ages, shapes or sizes. 2 p.m.-8 p.m. Mon.-Thurs.; 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Fri.; 10 a.m.-11 p.m. Sat.; 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Sun.; 2 p.m.-5 p.m. Mon.-Fri. is Healthy Happy Hour; $13 for 60 mins. during Healthy Happy Hour; $13 for 30 mins.; $16 for 60 mins.; $21 for 90 mins.; $26 for 120 mins. All minors must have waiver signed by parent or guardian.

Putt Park Miniature Golf Course 6085 S. Fort Apache Road, Las Vegas, 702-254-7888; theputtpark.com Las Vegas’ only outdoor 18-hole miniature

Silver Nugget Bowling Center

3D Family Fun Center 3315 E. Russell Road, Suite 4K, Las Vegas, 702-608-4653; 3dfamilyfuncenter.com Voted Best of Las Vegas last year in the Las Vegas Review-Journal poll, this is Southern

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THE GUIDE Nevada’s only 3-D mini-golf, laser tag and arcade. The 18-hole course takes guests on a glow-in-the-dark 3-D journey through space, down Route 66, under the sea, through a volcano and more. Featuring flashing lights, sirens and fog, the 2,000-square-foot laser tag arena can accommodate up to 11 players at a time. The arcade features numerous redemption prize games, as well as driving skills and shooting combat games. 2 p.m.-10 p.m. Mon.-Thurs.; 2 p.m.-11 p.m. Fri.; 10 a.m.-11 p.m. Sat.; 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Sun.; $3-$30 plus $1.50 glasses rental for mini golf; $4-$7 for laser tag; $24.99 unlimited play; specials available weeknights.

ART/CULTURE/EDUCATION

National Atomic Testing Museum 755 E. Flamingo Road, Las Vegas, 702-794-5151; nationalatomictestingmuseum.org The National Atomic Testing Museum features one of the most comprehensive collections of nuclear history that includes a wide variety of materials and more than 12,000 unique artifacts relating to atomic testing, the Nevada Test Site, the Cold War, and nuclear and radiological science and technology. The current display includes thousands of rare photographs, videos, artifacts, scientific and nuclear reports and data, and one-of-a-kind scientist collections, as well as the “Area 51— Myth or Reality” exhibit. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon.-Sat.; noon-5 p.m. Sun.; free-$20. Children under 17 must be accompanied by an adult.

Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art Bellagio hotel-casino, 3600 Las Vegas Blvd. S., Las Vegas, 702-693-7871; bellagio.com/attractions/galleryof-fine-art.aspx This fine art gallery features rotating worldclass art and objects exhibitions that include paintings, sculptures, ceramics and more created by renowned artists ranging from Picasso to Warhol. The artworks showcased are drawn from prestigious internationally known museums and private collections. An audio tour of the gallery is included in the price of admission. 10 a.m.-7 p.m. daily; $13 for Nevada residents; $11 for students, teachers, military; free for ages 12 and younger. Locals night 5-7 p.m. Wed., $8 with Nevada ID. Annual memberships available.

Bodies ... The Exhibition Luxor hotel-casino, 3900 Las Vegas Blvd. S., Las Vegas, 702-492-3960; luxor.com/entertainment/bodies.aspx Viewed around the world by more than 15

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million people, this one-of-a-kind exhibit features nine rooms, each dedicated to different functions of the human body, including the circulatory, digestive, muscular, nervous and respiratory systems. Displays showcase 13 preserved whole-body specimens and more than 260 organs and parts. 10 a.m.-10 p.m. daily; $29 for locals with valid ID; free for children age 3 and younger.

Clark County Museum 1830 S. Boulder Highway, Henderson, 702-455-7955; clarkcountynv.gov/ depts/parks/pages/clark-county-museum.aspx Located on this 30-acre site is a unique collection of historic homes that re-creates the daily lifestyle of the decade in which each was built, the Ghost Town and Mining Trail, and a contemporary pueblo-style exhibit hall that presents a time line of Southern Nevada from prehistoric to modern times. The exhibit hall also features changing art and artifacts, as well as special-themed displays. 9 a.m.- 4:30 p.m. daily; $1-$2. Museum memberships available.

The Discovery Children’s Museum 833 Las Vegas Blvd. N., Las Vegas, 702-382-3445; discoverykidslv.org This nonprofit museum inspires kids to want to learn and consists of nine ongoing hands-on exhibits that feature interactive science, sliding and climbing structures, creative play, green living, design and engineering challenges, role-playing and problem-solving, a sensory area, educational water play, the art of investigation, the elements of art and health education. Also on display is a traveling featured exhibit. General hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Tues.Fri.; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat.; noon-5 p.m. Sun.; Summer hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon.-Sat.; noon-5 p.m. Sun.; $12 or free to members, children younger than 1 year old and adults 100+. Children younger than age 13 must be accompanied by an adult.

Las Vegas Natural History Museum 900 Las Vegas Blvd. N., Las Vegas, 702-384-3466; lvnhm.org With nine permanent interactive exhibits, as well as traveling exhibits, this private nonprofit institution is dedicated to educating the community in the natural sciences, such as wildlife, ecosystems and various cultures. Permanent exhibits include dinosaurs, Egyptian treasures, wild mammals, African jungle animals and prehistoric primates, Mojave Desert plants and animals, marine life and terrestrial animals, a young scientist center with computers and microscopes, and geological natural

resources and minerals. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. daily; free-$10. Membership program available.

Barrick Museum University of Nevada, Las Vegas Campus, 4505 S. Maryland Parkway, Las Vegas, 702-895-3381; unlv.edu/ barrickmuseum/about-the-barrick The museum’s goal is to provide an engaging space consisting of works of art and cultural objects that represent past and present cultures, as well as artistic creativity, that can be experienced directly by guests in an effort to promote the understanding of art as an enduring human endeavor. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon.Wed. and Fri.; 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Thurs.; noon-5 p.m. Sat.; free; suggested voluntary contribution: $5 adults; $2 children and seniors.

Nevada State Museum Springs Preserve, 309 S. Valley View Blvd., Las Vegas, 702-486-5205; springspreserve.org/attractions/ nsm.html Focusing on the prehistory, history and natural history of Nevada, this two-level, 70,000-square-foot museum features a 13,000-square-foot permanent exhibit gallery that informs visitors about the state’s geology, early flora and fauna, Native Americans and first settlers, mining and railroad histories, the Hoover Dam, the atomic era and more. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Thurs.-Mon.; admission included with paid general admission to Springs Preserve, $10.95-18.95; free for Preserve members.

ENTERTAINMENT/ATTRACTIONS

The Adventuredome Circus Circus Hotel-Casino, 2880 Las Vegas Blvd. S., Las Vegas, 702794-3939; adventuredome.com America’s largest indoor theme park at 5 acres offers visitors both thrill and traditional carnival rides that include two coasters, eight premium, two large, three junior and four family rides. And it keeps the fun going with seven featured attractions where guests can enjoy rock climbing, bungee jumping, miniature golf, midway and video arcade games, clown shows, bowling or navigating a maze of lasers. 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Sun.; 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Mon.-Thurs.; 10 a.m.-midnight Fri.-Sat. (hours may vary); $5-$10 per ride; $29.95 adults and $16.95 kids 33 to 47 inches tall, free for children under 33 inches for all-day pass; $2 discount Mon.-Fri. with valid Nevada ID.

Bonnie Springs Ranch Old Nevada, 16395 Bonnie Springs Road, Las Vegas, 702-875-4191; bonniesprings.com Originally a stopover for wagon trains heading to California down the Old Span-

ish Trail, Bonnie Springs now features a replica of an authentic 1880’s mining town where live performances, a hanging and gunfight reenactments take place in the street; a petting zoo; horseback riding, pony rides and a train ride; motel and full-service restaurant and bar. 10:30 a.m.5 p.m. daily; $7-$10.

Dolphin Habitat Mirage hotel-casino, 3400 Las Vegas Blvd. S., Las Vegas, 702-7917188; miragehabitat.com This 2.5-million-gallon habitat containing four connected pools and an artificial coral reef system is home to a family of Atlantic bottlenose dolphins. Both an educational and research facility, visitors can observe these magnificent creatures in a naturalistic environment above and below ground and participate in two special programs — Painting With the Dolphins and Trainer for a Day. 11 a.m.-5:30 p.m. weekdays; 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. weekends (hours may vary); $16.95 local adults; $11.95 local children ages 4-12; free for children age 3 and younger. Annual passes also available.

Ethel M Chocolates & Cactus Garden 2 Cactus Garden Drive, Henderson, 702-435-2608; ethelm.com Not only can visitors take a self-guided Ethel M factory tour, learn about making chocolates and get a free taste sample, they can step outside the factory and explore the Botanical Cactus Garden, touted as Nevada’s largest and one of the world’s largest collections of its kind. The garden features 4 acres and more than 300 species of plants, including drought-tolerant ornamentals, cactuses and other succulents. And be sure to stop back around Christmastime for the garden’s annual holiday lighting — absolutely spectacular! 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Mon.-Thurs.; free and open to public.

The Lion Habitat Ranch 382 Bruner Ave., Henderson, 702-5956666; lionhabitatranch.com An accredited facility by the Zoological Association of America, this is home to the lions that previously were at the MGM Lion Habitat attraction on the Las Vegas Strip. At the ranch, the public can get a private tour; interact with new cubs; participate in a threeto four-hour Trainer for a Day program in which guests are instructed in such lion care activities as preparing daily food, cleaning a cage, feeding, watering and bathing; or book a Feast with Beast catered lunch or dinner for up to 10 people where they will be surrounded by lions watching their every move. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Fri.-Mon.; $20 per adult and one child; $10 extra child younger than age 14; $50 for Mom, Dad and kids.

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Siegfried & Roy’s Secret Garden Mirage hotel-casino, 3400 Las Vegas Blvd. S., Las Vegas, 702-791-7188; miragehabitat.com/pages/garden_ main.asp Legendary magicians Siegfried Fischbacher and Roy Horn have worked for years to help save endangered animals, primarily white tigers and lions. Modeled after these animals’ natural habitat, this open-air tropical environment that the duo created as part of their conservation effort is filled with palm trees, lush foliage and simulated mountain terrain and is also home to black panthers, golden tigers and leopards. 11 a.m.-5:30 p.m. weekdays; 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. weekends (hours may vary); $16.95 local adults; $11.95 local children ages 4-12; free for children age 3 and younger. Annual passes also available.

Shark Reef Aquarium Mandalay Bay, 3950 Las Vegas Blvd. S., Las Vegas, 702-632-4555; sharkreef.com A definite standout, this aquarium immerses visitors in a unique, total sensory experience where they’ll have close-up encounters with dangerous underwater predators and unusual aquatic creatures from the world’s tropical waters. It features an amazing 1.3-million-gallon shipwreck that allows for an almost 360-degree view of various kinds of sharks and colorful fish through an acrylic tunnel, 14 exhibits, a Touch Pool and more than 2,000 animals, many of which are rare. 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Sun.-Thurs.; 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Fri.-Sat.; Summer hours: 10 a.m.-10 p.m. daily; Nevada Residents: $15 adults; $10 children ages 5-12; free children age 4 and younger. Packages and annual passes available.

Springs Preserve 333 S. Valley View Blvd., Las Vegas, 702-822-7700; springspreserve.org At 180 acres, families have plenty of room to explore and learn about the history of the Las Vegas Valley. The Preserve features 110 acres of display and natural gardens with more than 1,200 species of native and nonnative desert-adapted plants; wildlife habitats; walking and biking trails; museums with interactive gallery displays, traveling exhibits and a theater; animal shows and activities; and family events. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. daily; Nevada Residents: $9.95 adult; $4.95 ages 5-17; $8.95 students with ID, military with ID and ages 65+.

The Planetarium College of Southern Nevada, 3200 E. Cheyenne Ave., North Las Vegas, 702-651-4138; csn.edu/planetarium Southern Nevada’s only public planetarium presents programs to the public and local schools utilizing a high-definition hemispheric video projection that creates virtual

realities on a domed screen above the audience. As an added bonus, after the 8 o’clock showing, the telescopes at the Student Observatory are open for viewing when the weather is clear. 6 p.m., 7 p.m. and 8 p.m. Fri.; 3:30 p.m., 6 p.m., 7 p.m. and 8 p.m. Sat.; no late seating. General: $6; Discount: $4 seniors 55+, children younger than 12 years and CSN students.

Vegas Indoor Skydiving 200 Convention Center Drive, Las Vegas, 702-731-4768; vegasindoorskydiving.com America’s first indoor skydiving facility, complete with a vertical wind tunnel, mesh trampoline floor and foam-padded walls, here guests can experience bodyflight and the free fall sensation during a simulated skydiving session. All participants attend a brief training class before suiting up for their flight. 9:45 a.m.-5 p.m. daily; $75 first-time single flight; $40 second flight, same day; $350 for 15-minute block with two to five flyers; $200 book of five flights for one person. No age limit but weight guidelines apply. Participants younger than 18 years old must fly with an adult.

Wet ’n’ Wild 7055 S. Fort Apache Road, Las Vegas, 702-979-1600; wetnwildlasvegas.com This 33.5-acre water-themed amusement park offers more than 25 adrenaline-pumping water slides, but for those who desire a milder form of excitement, it also features a winding river, interactive fun zones, nine slides and a wave pool. Amenities include shower and changing facilities, lockers, cabana rentals and tube rentals. Dive ’n’ Movie program offers a unique outdoor movie-viewing experience shortly after sundown every other Friday. Opens for season on April 12, 10 a.m.-closing times vary (6 p.m.-10 p.m.); $39.99 adults; $29.99 children under 42 inches tall and seniors; free for children 2 years and younger.

PARENTing RESOURCES

The Alexander Dawson School Summer Camp 10845 W. Desert Inn Road, Las Vegas, 702-253-2802; bgchevents.org/dawson The Alexander Dawson School, in partnership with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Southern Nevada, runs an affordable pay-as-you-go summer camp program for children in kindergarten through eighth grade. Open to the public, the camp utilizes more than 15,000 square feet of indoor space, including the gymnasium, a large game room, cultural arts center, acting lab, science center and dining hall, as well as multiple outdoor fields and playgrounds. Campers also receive a healthy lunch and afternoon snack daily that are included in the weekly registration fee. June 9-Aug. 15, 8 a.m.-6 p.m.

The Children’s Free Clinic of Southern Nevada

HopeLink of Southern Nevada

1140 Almond Tree Lane, Las Vegas, 702-826-2300; cfcsnv.org In partnership with the nonprofit organization Children’s Medical Assistance Inc., which gives uninsured and underinsured children the opportunity to receive the same medical care as the more fortunate through community and professional partnerships, this is the first and only completely free pediatric clinic in Nevada. The clinic offers immunizations and medical services for children up to 18, as well as a free prescription drug program. No appointments are necessary and walk-ins are welcome. 8:30 a.m.-noon Mon.-Fri. (hours may vary); free.

178 Westminster Way, Henderson, 702-566-0576; link2hope.org The mission of this Family Resource Centers program, which is funded by a grant from the Nevada Department of Health and Human Services, is “to build a better community by preventing homelessness, keeping families intact, and promoting self-sufficiency.” Since its beginnings, the organization has made such notable contributions as distributing school supplies, backpacks, clothing and books to schoolchildren; assisting families with rent and utilities; establishing a literacy program that is held in 12 at-risk elementary schools; providing food, bus passes and parenting and life skills classes, and parental resources; assistance with job searches and interviews. 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Mon.-Thurs.

Children’s Medical Assistance Inc. 1930 Village Center Circle, Suite 3-411, Las Vegas, 702-823-4954; childrensmedicalassistance.org A nonprofit organization dedicated to giving uninsured and underinsured children the opportunity to receive the same medical care as the more fortunate through community and professional partnerships, such as The Children’s Free Clinic of Southern Nevada. Other partnerships provide immunizations, children’s mental health services, free health school-based clinics for Clark County School District students and more.

Head Start 702-387-0179 for all locations; nvhsa.net/counties/clark.shtml This federal government-created and -funded program helps lower-income children up to 5 years of age and their families gain access to various social services and development programs, such as educational programs, free medical and dental care, and overall child development assistance. Parents may be able to receive assistance through the program to gain long-term self-sufficiency in terms of finding a job or other social services.

Helping Kids Clinic 968 E. Sahara Ave., Las Vegas, 702732-7001; helpingkidsclinic.org Treating about 10,000 kids up to age 18 annually, this private 501(c)3 nonprofit organization’s goal is to provide affordable medical services to underserved and uninsured children in the Las Vegas area who cannot afford health care. The clinic is staffed with three to six medical doctors and advanced practice registered nurses who offer such medical services as immunizations, wellness checks, daycare, sport and camp physicals, Denver screening, minor illness care, newborn screenings and TB tests. Bilingual specialists are available. Call to schedule an appointment Mon.-Fri.; $10 donation to cover office visit, though no child will be turned away for family’s inability to pay.

Nevada Department of Health & Human Services multiple locations; 702-486-1001; dwss.nv.gov Offers numerous agencies and family resources to assist with child support enforcement, child care and development, professional development, energy, food, financial and medical assistance to Nevada families, the disabled and elderly. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon.-Fri.

The Nevada Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants & Children (WIC) multiple locations; 702-220-6096; nevadawic.org For more than 40 years, this federally funded short-term special supplemental nutrition program has been providing free nutritious foods, nutrition education, breastfeeding support, and health and social services referrals to pregnant, postpartum and breastfeeding women, infants and children younger than 5 years of age who are at nutrition risk and meet income eligibility requirements. 7:30 a.m.-noon, 1 p.m.-4:30 p.m. for all locations except Cambridge (8 a.m.-noon, 1 p.m.-5 p.m.); free.

Social Services Department Clark County 3885 S. Maryland Parkway, Las Vegas; 1600 Pinto Lane, Las Vegas; 2432 N. Martin Luther King Blvd., Suite D,North Las Vegas; 522 E. Lake Mead Blvd., Suite 4, Henderson; 702-455-4270 number for all office locations; clarkcountynv. gov/depts/social_service Provides a variety of assistance services and aid — emergency crisis and financial, medical, child care, protective services for seniors, help with rent and

utility bills, food, transportation, debt and foreclosure, legal aid, cremation and burial and more — for needy residents of Clark County and Las Vegas who aren’t assisted by other federal, state or local government assistance programs. Offices open 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Southern Nevada Health District Immunization Program SNHD Main Facility 330 S. Valley View Blvd; 702-759-0850; southernnevadahealthdistrict.org/ immunizations/clinic-locations.php The SNHD provides adolescent, backto-school, flu, immunizations and travel vaccine clinics. For children under 18 years of age, written consent must be provided to the health district from a parent or legal guardian at the time of service. SNHD: 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Mon.-Fri.; East Las Vegas: 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Mon.-Fri.; Henderson: 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Mon.-Fri.; NLV: 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Mon.-Fri. Cost varies based on type of immunization; in addition to vaccine costs, an administrative fee of $16 per child for one vaccine and $25 per child for two or more vaccines is charged.

SPORTS/RECREATION

Black Mountain Recreation Center/Aquatic Complex 599 Greenway Road, 702-267-4070, Henderson; cityofhenderson.com Offering a wide selection of programming and special events, this 41,000-square-foot center is designed for all ages. It features a fitness center, gymnasium, indoor cycling area, racquetball and wallyball courts, tennis courts, an adjacent seasonal aquatic complex with an outdoor pool, Kids Corner, game room, classes and meeting rooms, a multiuse room and a covered patio. The aquatic complex offers interactive water apparatus, a raindrop waterfall and three-loop slide. Center: 5 a.m.-9 p.m. Mon.-Fri.; 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat.; and 1 p.m.-5 p.m. Sun.; Pool: 11 a.m.6 p.m. daily Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. Call for admission pricing.

Desert Breeze Aquatic Facility 8275 Spring Mountain Road, Las Vegas, 702-455-7798; clarkcountynv.gov The facility features an indoor pool with lap swim and family swim hours, as well as a seasonal outdoor water park that provides a shallow water beach entry, play structure and two water slides designed for those 48 inches and taller. Lap Swim: 5:30 a.m.-8 p.m. Mon., Wed. and Fri.; 5:30 a.m.-10 a.m., 3 p.m.-9 p.m. Tues. and Thurs.; 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Sat.; Family Swim: noon-4 p.m. Mon., Wed., Fri. and Sat.; 8 p.m.-9 p.m. Tues. and Thurs.; Outdoor: Opens May 26, call for hours.

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Fit4Mom Stroller Strides Classes At Town Square Park 6605 Las Vegas Blvd. S., Las Vegas, 702-882-1795; strollerstrides.net/lasvegas A fitness program for moms and their babies, Stroller Strides classes offer moms a total body workout while their babies are engaged in songs and activities in their stroller. The program features hourlong classes that include a five minute warm-up, 45 minutes of power walking with intervals of strength and body toning exercises using tubing, the stroller and the environment. The class concludes with 10 minutes of abs and stretching.Through July, 8:30 a.m.-9:30 a.m. Mon., Wed. and Fri.; $18 per class; $110 for 10 classes.

Helen Meyer Community Center 4525 New Forest Drive, near Flamingo and Tenaya, Las Vegas, 702-4557723; clarkcountynv.gov This center’s amenities include ball fields, tennis courts, a recreation center, fitness course, walking course, playground, spray pool and picnic areas. The center also offers a variety of classes and events, including a 10-week Kindergarten Prep session, a 10-week Preschool Prep session and an open recreation program, which is a free after-school program for 6 to 12 year olds that provides homework time, sports, activities, arts & crafts, field trips and socialization. 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Mon.-Fri. Call for costs.

Henderson Multigenerational Center/Aquatic Complex 250 S. Green Valley Parkway, Henderson, 702-267-5800; cityofhenderson.com One of the largest recreational facilities in Nevada and the first facility of its kind in Southern Nevada, this 84,120-squarefoot center features an aquatic complex, including indoor and outdoor pools, a fitness center, walking-jogging track, dance and aerobics rooms, indoor cycling area, indoor mulitsport area with basketball court, rock climbing wall, Kids Corner, an art gallery, teaching kitchen, adult lounge with reading area and kitchenette and a game room. 5 a.m.-9 p.m. Mon.-Fri.; 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat.; 1 p.m.-5 p.m. Sun.; Climbing Wall: 2 p.m.-5 p.m. Mon., Wed. and Fri. Call for admission pricing.

Silver Mesa Recreation Center & Pool 4025 Allen Lane, North Las Vegas, 702-633-2550; cityofnorthlasvegas.com This 5-acre rec center provides numerous leisure activities, educational opportunities and athletic outlets, including a fully equipped

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fitness facility with free weights, circuit and cardiovascular machines, exercise classes, a gymnasium, swimming pool with waterslide and mushroom shower and shaded picnic areas. The center also offers classrooms, multipurpose rooms, and dance and art studios for arts & crafts activities, guitar and piano lessons, computer skills instruction and more for all ages. 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Mon.-Thurs.; 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Sat.

SkyView Multi-Generational Center 3050 E. Centennial Parkway, North Las Vegas, 702-522-7500; lasvegasymca.org Set amongst the mountains, this nearly 40,000-square-foot facility is located in the far north but is easily accessed from the 215 Beltway. Featuring award-winning programs from the YMCA, this new stateof-the-art community center accommodates all ages and fitness levels. It offers a heated indoor lap pool with spacious deck and lesson area; wellness center that houses cardio equipment, circuit machines and dumbbells; cycling studio; aerobics and yoga studio; fully equipped locker rooms with showers; kids’ gym; lounge areas with free Wi-Fi; multipurpose rooms for public use; and games such as Xbox, Kinect, air hockey, billiards and foosball. Facility: 6 a.m.-8 p.m. Mon.-Thurs.; 6 a.m.-6 p.m. Fri.; 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Sat.; seasonal Sun.; Pool: 6 a.m.-noon and 4 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Mon.-Fri.; 8 a.m.-3:45 p.m. Sat.; seasonal Sun.; $40 individual annual program participant membership; $55 family-immediate family annual program participant membership; financial assistance available.

Whitney Ranch Recreation Center and Aquatic Complex 575 Galleria Drive, Henderson, 702267-5860; cityofhenderson.com Located adjacent to the Whitney Ranch Aquatic Complex, the 41,000-square-foot center includes a fitness center, dance and aerobics room, gymnasium, courts for racquetball and wallyball, a Kids Corner, game room, classrooms and meeting rooms and a conference room. The state-of-theart aquatic complex offers two pools: an outdoor activity pool featuring 25-yard competition lanes, a shallow training area and water play features that is open during summer months and indoor pool that is open year-round featuring a retractable roof, 10 competitive lanes, a shallow water instructional area and a wheelchair lift. Center: 5 a.m.-9 p.m. Mon.-Fri.; 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat.; Indoor Pool: 5 a.m.-8 p.m. Mon.Fri.; 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat.; an 1 p.m.-5 p.m. Sun.; Outdoor Pool: 11 a.m.-6 p.m. daily Memorial Day weekend-Labor Day weekend. Call for admission pricing.

Walnut Recreation Center 3075 N. Walnut Road, Las Vegas, 702455-8402; clarkcountynv.gov This northwest rec center features a water park; fitness center; numerous recreation and education classes, such as dance and cheer, early childhood for kids and their parents, exercise and fitness, martial arts and sports; computer lab; game room; day camps; community service program; free supervised open recreation program for ages 6-17; and party room. The facility also serves the community through several programs, including Back on Track, a gang intervention program focusing on mentoring and case management; free ESL classes sponsored by College of Southern Nevada; Nevada Early Intervention Service that helps identify infants and toddlers who may be at-risk or have developmental delays; Parenting Project, which offers free parenting classes like Nurturing Parents and Families; ABCs of Parenting; Parent/Teen Solutions; and more. 7 a.m.-8 p.m. Mon.-Fri.; 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Sat. Call for costs; discount program available.

PARKS/TRAILS

Craig Ranch Regional Park 628 W. Craig Road, North Las Vegas, NV, 702-633-2418 A 170-acre park that offers numerous amenities — a skate park, a sports plaza featuring two basketball, four sand volleyball, six tennis courts and two youth baseball fields, three dog parks, a garden plaza and memorial tree grove, two ponds, two themed playgrounds and a rock climbing area, a water splash area, walking-biking-skating paths, open space, barbecue grills and picnic shelters — and connects the Las Vegas Valley Regional Trail System. 6 a.m.-11 p.m. daily.

Sunset Regional Park 2601 E. Sunset Road, Las Vegas, 702455-8200; clarkcountynv.gov The crown jewel of Clark County parks with an expansive 325 acres, Sunset features a lake for fishing, more than 200 rare Mojave Desert plant species and an abundance of wildlife. It offers numerous urban park amenities, such as tennis, volleyball and basketball courts, softball fields, disc golf and fitness courses, interpretive walking-jogging trails, a water play splash pad, playgrounds, a remote-control boat facility, a dog park, an amphitheater, shaded picnic areas, barbecue grills and plenty of open space. The park also hosts numerous special family events throughout the year, and bicycle, sports and fishing equipment rentals are available. 6 a.m.-11 p.m. daily.

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