Momaha Magazine April 2022 by Omaha World-Herald

VOLUME 13 · ISSUE 4

APRIL

2022

WATCH THEM GROW Colorful seed bombs help spread flowers and joy

THE VALUE OF SERVICE Want to volunteer with your kids but don’t know where to begin? Nonprofits and parents weigh in T1

Find a Clinic Near You

We’re Here with

Pediatric Primary Care Close to Home At Boys Town Pediatrics, we know it’s important to keep your growing child healthy and strong with regular well checks, same-day sick appointments and access to care when (and where) you need it. With six clinics across the Omaha Metro, Boys Town Pediatrics gives families access to: • 24-hour appointment scheduling

• Behavioral health services in each clinic

• Same day sick appointments, including evenings, weekends and holidays

• Extended evening and Saturday hours

• 24-hour nurse support

• Virtual visits for primary, specialty and behavioral health care

We’re growing, too! NEW Boys Town Pediatrics Location Now Open MAPLE STREET CLINIC 3838 North 167th Court, Omaha, NE 68116

Month 2022

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Every child, everywhere, deserves the very best. It’s why Children’s Hospital

& Medical Center combines the largest group of pediatric specialties in the region, the most advanced technology and the biggest hearts all in one

place. Together, in this safe and welcoming environment of excellence, we’re shaping the future of pediatric medicine to deliver the very best for kids.

Visit ChildrensOmaha.org or call 1.800.833.3100 to find a physician near you.

CARE

April 2022

ADVO CACY

RESEARCH

E D U C AT I O N

BOOKSHELF ASHLEE COFFEY

NONFICTION BOOKS OPEN

DOORS TO HISTORY W

hen we think of books for kids, we normally think of fiction — including fantasy, adventure, animal tales, mystery and more. Rarely do we think of kids reading nonfiction books, right? After all, when I was a kid, I thought of nonfiction books as boring. I thought of them as books you only read when you’re trying to research something for a paper you had to write

for school. But nonfiction books are so much more than that. Today there are tons of great nonfiction books and series aimed at kids. “Nonfiction books include more text features like color photographs, illustrations, glossaries, and captions, which support and engage young readers,” according to the article “The Dazzling World of Nonfiction,” written by Donalyn Miller.

“MOONSHOT: THE FLIGHT OF APOLLO 11”

“I AM” BOOK SERIES

by Brian Floca

This biography series is similar to the “Who Was” series but what makes them different is the point-of-view. The “I Am” book series are told as if through the eyes of the person featured in the book. The first book in the series, “I Am Sacagawea,” starts “I am only sixteen years old as I trek across the country with my infant son strapped to my back. I have a river, two lakes, and four mountain peaks named after me. I am featured on the U.S. golden dollar. I am Sacagawea.” The series features full-color illustrated covers, onecolor illustrations throughout, a timeline, an introduction to people you’ll meet in the book, maps, sidebars and a top 10 list of important things to know at the end of every book. Fourth through sixth grade.

The book combines simple text and vibrant illustrations to introduce a new generation of young science enthusiasts to the historymaking Apollo 11 moon landing. Ages 4-7.

“WHO WAS?” BOOK SERIES by various authors

“THE ANIMAL BOOK: A COLLECTION OF THE FASTEST, FIERCEST, TOUGHEST, CLEVEREST, SHYEST — AND MOST SURPRISING — ANIMALS ON EARTH” by Steve Jenkins In this non-fiction book, kids can learn about more than 300 animals that are smooth and spiky, fast and slow, hop and waddle and much more. The more than 200page book has several sections, including “Animal Senses,” “Animal Extremes” and the “The Story of Life” all with fascinating facts and infographics for kids to learn. Kindergarten through fourth grade.

They’re fun, adventurous, funny and sometimes mysterious all while helping kids learn about real-life things. No matter what kids are interested in — whether it’s cars, animals, fashion, arts and crafts, musicians or other famous people in history — there’s a non-fiction book out there for them. If you’re wanting to introduce more nonfiction books into your child’s life, here are some great options to get you started.

Want to learn about Princess Diana? How about Shaquille O’Neal or Laura Ingalls Wilder? These middle grade books feature illustrated biographies of significant historical figures — including artists, scientists, world leaders and more — for young readers. The series also features “What Was?” books, which talk more about topics rather than people. Topics include “What was the Titanic?” “What is Climate Change,” What is Rock and Roll” and more. Ages 9-12.

by various authors

“DK EYEWITNESS” BOOK SERIES by various authors This series, which first published in 1988, is still going strong with tons of titles but various authors. Books covers all kinds of topics, including animals, natural disasters, space exploration, Shakespeare and more. Each book gives facts about a specific topic and includes pictures, timelines and paragraphs of detailed information. Ages 9-12.

“SHE PERSISTED AROUND THE WORLD: 13 WOMEN WHO CHANGED HISTORY” by Chelsea Clinton This picture book profiles the lives of 13 women who have left their mark on world history. The women include Caroline Herschel, Marie Curie, Mary Verghese, Malala Yousafzai and more. Ages 6-9.

Seed bombs spread summertime joy TEXT, STYLING + PHOTOGRAPHY Kiley Cruse

pring is right around the corner. And that means planting season and the gorgeous blooms of summer are soon to follow. To help ring in this new season, we’ve made seed bombs and seed paper. This is a great project for kids and is super easy to do. They take about a half hour to make and about 24 hours to dry completely. You’ll be amazed at how easy this activity is. Add any herb or flower seeds that you wish. You can turn these into homemade gifts, party favors or a fun way to add color to your yard.

FRUITS OF THE

EARTH T6

April 2022

Seed bombs and seed paper are two easy and fun ways to spread flowers.

EARTH SEED PAPER

SEED BOMBS & SEED PAPER‌ • Recycled paper or construction paper • Seeds • Water • Food processor or blender

• Strainer • Silicone mold • Round cookie or biscuit cutter • Screen • Towel

1. Repeat steps 1 through 3 above for both the blue and green paper. 2. Put an absorbent towel under a piece of screen.

SILICONE MOLD SEED BOMBS

1. Tear the paper into small pieces and put in a bowl. (For us, three sheets of construction paper filled our eight-hole silicone mold. Three sheets each of blue and green made about 15 seed paper earths.) This is great for working fine motor skills in small children. 2. Cover the shredded paper with warm water and let the mixture sit in water for 15 to 20 minutes. This allows the paper to bring in moisture and will help it to break down even further in the next step.

For silicone mold seed bombs, drain water off the paper until you get a clay-like texture

Use a round biscuit cutter as your mold for the earth seed paper.

4. Remove from the food processor and using a potato ricer or strainer, press the excess water out of the paper. 5. Fill silicone molds halfway with paper pulp.

7. Sprinkle seeds of your choice sparingly over the top of the paper in the molds. If you pressed the excess water out of your paper the seeds will not germinate while the paper dries.

Gently press seeds into paper to ensure they stick once the paper has dried. Fill mold about half way with paper pulp. Then add a few seeds and top with more pulp. Use a towel to press paper into mold and to squeeze out some of the excess water.

9. Press the final layer firmly in place. Press down again with a dry towel to soak up any excess water to speed drying.

Once partially dry, pop seed bombs from silicone molds and set on a drying rack.

6. Once you have used all your paper pulp, you may need to swap the towel under the screen for another dry one. This will speed drying. 7. Let the screen sit in the sun or a warm place to aid in drying.

TO USE THE SEED BOMBS

8. Fill silicone molds up to the top with the remaining paper.

10. Let the mold sit for a few hours in a warm place to begin drying. Then remove the seed paper from the mold and set on a drying rack to dry completely. Don’t put the seed bomb in an oven, dehydrator or microwave to speed drying as this will kill the seed and stop germination. Allow it all to dry naturally.

4. Carefully lift cookie cutter. 5. Sprinkle with a few seeds. Press them in gently with your finger to make sure they stick.

3. Drain off some of the water and add torn paper to the food processor. In small batches, process the wet paper with your food processor to make paper pulp. If the food processor doesn’t mash all the paper, try adding a small amount of water. You want the paper to be coarsely mashed and not one large lump of paper.

6. Press the paper firmly into the mold to smooth out any gaps.

3. Set round cookie cutter on top of screen. Use a spoon to add liquified blue and green paper until you get a nice swirl of the colors.

Seed paper should be planted under a shallow layer of dirt.

Once your seed bombs are fully dry they are ready for gifting or spreading around. Plant the entire seed bomb by digging a shallow hole and covering the seed bomb with 1/8th inch of soil. Keep moist at all times, while you are waiting for the seeds to germinate.

SPONSORED FEATURE EARLY DEVELOPMENT NETWORK

Celebrate T the littles in your life Did you know that the Week of the Young Child is April 2-8? Special for Early Development Network

April 2022

he National Association for the Education of Young Children uses this week as an opportunity to focus our attention on the needs of young children and their families, and to recognize the early childhood programs and services in the area.

Music Monday

Tasty Tuesday

April 4 When children sing, dance and listen to music, they develop language and early literacy skills. You can help support your child’s development by playing, singing and dancing with your child.

April 5 Cooking together connects math and literacy skills with science and parents us an opportunity to introduce ways to incorporate healthy habits into their child’s lifestyle.

Work Together Wednesday April 6 When children build together, they experience teamwork and develop their social and early literacy skills. Grab some materials and create!

Artsy Thursday

Family Friday

April 7 Think, problem solve, create! Children develop creativity, social skills and fine motor skills with open-ended projects where they can make choices, use their imaginations and create with their hands.

April 8 You are your child’s first teacher. Celebrating your own family by telling stories or including them in everyday routines is a great way to engage your little learner and further their literacy skills.

For more information on the Week of the Young Child, visit www.naeyc.org/events/woyc. Research shows that the first three years are the most important time for learning in a child’s life. It is never too early to ask questions about your child’s development. Take advantage of free early intervention services through your school district. Call 402-597-4936 or visit our edn.esu3.org for more information.

BE WELL MARJIE DUCEY

Your child’s school or primary care doctor are good first options for

MENTAL HEALTH HELP

ADOBE STOCK‌

f your child is showing signs of needing mental health assistance, the best — and quickest — option might be turning to someone with whom you’re probably already familiar. Visit the school psychologist or your child’s primary care physician first, says Dr. Mike Vance, a licensed psychologist and the director of behavioral health at Children’s Hospital & Medical Center. “The reason I like those two sources is they know your child,” Vance said. A school psychologist can give you an opinion on how they think your child is doing and if speaking with them is an option instead of sourcing a specialist. They might be able to provide all the help your Vance child needs. A primary physician can make a referral if they think your child needs additional assistance. Both are a faster route than making a cold call

to a therapist or a crisis intervention line. Neither are wrong, Vance said, but it can be challenging to quickly book an appointment. “We’re busier than we’ve ever been,” Vance said. “The wait list is long.” Don’t let that deter you from seeking help for your child. Vance said there have been big upticks in anxiety, depression and eating disorders among children in the past few years. The severity of those issues is greater as well. Adults stressed out from rising prices, the pandemic and the state of the world can unknowingly be increasing the stress level for the entire family. If your child or teen is acting differently, doesn’t seem themselves, isn’t interested in things that formerly brought them joy or has a more edgy attitude, it is likely time to seek help. “There is definitely evidence and research data that supports that mental health care is effective,” Vance said. “The earlier we can screen and identify

patients and get them engaged in treatments, the better the outcomes are and the quicker the recovery.” If your child says he or she is having trouble making friends or being motivated about their school work, Vance said he would start with school staff, because that is where the child perceives the challenge. If your child says he or she needs to talk to someone, someone in their faith community such as a youth pastor could be a good source, too. But if your child is actively trying to harm themself, go to the emergency room, where they can be stabilized before assessing the best steps to take next. Don’t let any perceived stigmas about mental health care keep you from getting help for your children, Vance said. It’s no different than if they needed assistance for a medical issue such as high cholesterol. “The sooner we can intervene,” he said, “the better the outcomes for sure.”

FINDING HELP: WHEN TO GET IT Mental health disorders are real, common and often treatable. It is estimated 13-20% of children in the United States will experience a diagnosable mental health disorder in a given year. The following are signs that your loved one may need to speak to a medical or mental health professional.

ADOLESCENTS & YOUNG ADULTS • Substance abuse • Inability to cope with problems and daily activities • Changes in sleeping and/or eating habits • Excessive complaints of physical ailments • Defiance of authority, truancy, theft, and/or vandalism • Intense fear of weight gain • Prolonged negative mood, often accompanied by poor appetite or thoughts of death • Frequent outbursts of anger

YOUNGER CHILDREN & PRE-ADOLESCENTS • Changes in school performance • Poor grades despite strong efforts • Excessive worr y or anxiety (i.e. refusing to go to bed or school) • Hyperactivity • Persistent nightmares • Persistent disobedience or aggression • Frequent temper tantrums Source: Mental Health America

WANT TO

VOLUNTEER WITH YOUR CHILDREN?

Don’t know where to begin? Nonprofits and parents weigh in

STORY Kloee Sander

hroughout Nebraska, volunteering requirements are a norm embedded in nearly every graduation plan from kindergarten through high school. Giving back is a value everyone would say is important on some level, yet busy schedules, diverse children interests or countless other things make consistent family volunteering feel nearly impossible to implement. However, experts said making volunteering together a norm benefits your entire family.

1. Volunteering helps introduce a value set and shows children how to integrate them into daily lives Volunteering is a great way to highlight and teach important values like sacrifice and service to children. By choosing organizations that are important to you and your family, children invest in them as well. From church cleanings to environmental clean-ups, volunteering helps children take ownership in a religious community or of a social issue that will carry with them through life. Introducing your child to volunteering at a young age makes them believe they can make a difference and have an impact on those around them. “No matter your age, no matter your background, no matter how much you had or didn’t have, you still have something to offer to the community. And in a sense, your responsibility to do so,” said Habitat for Humanity Public Affairs and Advocacy Director Tracie McPherson. She has two teenage boys and has brought them to service events throughout their lives so they develop a “heart for volunteer work.”

2. Children discover passions and interests through exposure and skill development while volunteering These values can then go further to help children discover their passions and learn life-long skills. Marjorie Maas, executive director of SHARE Omaha, said when it comes to volunteering, everyone has an “itch” to scratch in their community. Identifying that “itch” is the best place to start when looking for a place to volunteer with your family. “Say a parent realizes their children are very interested in animals. And so, they get involved at the local petting zoo. They get involved at the Humane Society. They help with cleanup, when necessary, for wildlife organizations,” said Maas. “All of those things show that you can be interested in something and make a difference with something at the same time.” By choosing organizations to volunteer at that have activities or causes your child has interest in, volunteering becomes a fun activity they want to do rather than a chore you are forcing them into. Volunteering also teaches children new skills. Maas and her family volunteered for Outlook Nebraska, and her daughter learned how to address and stuff envelopes, which is a skill needed in daily life. Children can learn how to take care of plants by volunteering at the community garden or how to play with a dog while helping at the Human Society. Learning and volunteering go hand-in-hand.

3. It helps children make connections and grow their communication skills. SHARE OMAHA

Shannon and her family joined the Do Good Week Street Team to hang 25 foot banners at Dodge Memorial Park. She says it was a good chance to talk to her young boys about the importance of doing good.

April 2022

Volunteering helps children make connections with people and organizations in their community. Children learn to communicate with adults they are working with and gain mentors and friends. They also

oNce - a week swiM lessoNs

MoRNiNg,afteRNooN, eveNiNg & sat. MoRNiNgtiMe slots available

Now RegisteRiNg foR suMMeR caMp

KILEY CRUSE‌

Josiah Pearson, right, hands out a hot meal at Empty Tomb Ministries along side his brother Elijah. The Pearsons introduced their children to volunteering at a young age. “We think it’s incredibly important for our kids to volunteer and serve at a young age and do it with us as a family. It’s such a great way to model Christ’s love,” said their father Matt Pearson. can connect with the people they are serving who might have different backgrounds or life experiences. Emily Nguyen volunteered with her father at Habitat for Humanity every summer starting at age 15. She said her favorite memory was working with a homeowner whose primary language was not English. Despite this language barrier, they found other ways to communicate and grow in friendship while working to build the homeowner’s house. “We may have had different experiences, but there was commonality,” Nguyen said. She plans on her children helping at Habitat when they are old enough so they can learn how to communicate across differences and grow as a family through volunteerism. Volunteering helps children learn how to find things in common with people different than themselves. A skill that makes them better friends, students and future employees.

4. Becomes a bonding event that produces lasting memories. Volunteering can be fun and will produce lifelong memories with your children. It combines a value set, new skills and a fun activity into one event. When your whole family can partake in those things together, memories are bound to be made. “Volunteering with your parents is great. With their siblings is also great, but this is an excellent opportunity for able-bodied grandparents to get out with their grandkids and introduce them to something that the families may be passionate about, or their grandparents are passionate about,” Maas said.

HOW TO GET STARTED

Identify what you want to teach your

children through this experience and how you want to give back. Look around your community and see what organizations are helping make it a better place — maybe it is your church or school or a neighbored group. Reflect on causes you are passionate about. Get in contact with a volunteering organization. If you are struggling to find a volunteering opportunity within your community that matches your schedule or values, go to SHAREomaha.org. In just a few clicks, you will find hundreds of nonprofits looking for volunteers. Plus, you can filter your search based on activity, age group and type of organization. There are even virtual volunteer options. Talk to children about the event, and why you are doing it. By having a conversation beforehand, you prepare them socially and mentally for the new experience by laying out rules and expectations. Plus, it allows you to explain why you intentionally chose this event for them to come to and help them understand its importance. Volunteer and allow your children to help. Choose a date and add it to the family calendar. When you are volunteering, give your children specific tasks to help with. By allowing them to help with the work, you are teaching them they can make a difference and their work is appreciated. Debrief the experience after. Depending on the volunteering opportunity, your children may have been exposed to things like hunger insecurity or homelessness for the first time. It is important to allow them to ask questions and share what they noticed when helping. Depending on how your children felt about the experience, you can also make changes in your plans for next time.

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PEEPS VASE

TUTU BASKET

The secret to this cute Easter centerpiece is a vase within a vase. • Two vases with the same shape, one about 2 inches smaller in diameter

• Jelly beans • Peeps • Flowers

1. Set the smaller vase inside the larger vase, making sure it’s centered. If your smaller vase is shorter than the larger vase, put a layer of jelly beans into the larger vase so that the top of the smaller vase is level with the top of the larger vase. 2. Next, pour jelly beans around the smaller vase. Stop about 3 inches from the top of the vases. Arrange Peeps around the smaller vase, with the face of the Peep facing outward. 3. Using a small cup, carefully fill the inner vase with water. Cut and arrange your flowers in the inner vase.

We know this adorable tutu Easter basket will make some little girl very happy. • ¾-inch ribbon • Tulle (the total amount you need will depend on how big around your basket is) • Hot glue gun

1. Start by securing the ribbon around the basket. You can tuck it behind the handle and then hot glue six points around the rim. Leave a little slack (not much) so you can tuck the tulle under the ribbon. 2. You can also choose to wrap the handle with the ribbon. Use the glue gun to secure it. 3. Then use a slip knot to tie on the tulle strips. Try strips about 8 inches long. (Don’t worry about being exact. You can trim them later, and varied lengths give the skirt a more full appearance.) If you have ever made a tieon tutu, this is the same technique. Fold the tulle in half and poke it under the ribbon. Then slip the ends through the loop on the top and pull. 4. If needed, trim the tulle afterward to make it even all the way around.

Source: adventuresinall thingsfood.blogspot.com

4. If you have a gap at the top, place jelly beans on top of the Peeps until the inner vase is concealed from view, or until you’ve reached the rim of the outer vase. Source: saucymommy.wordpress.com

JAMES R. BURNETT PHOTOS

RICE KRISPIES EASTER EGGS This fun recipe makes use of the classic plastic Easter egg to give us appropriately shaped Rice Krispies snacks — with a chocolate treat inside. • 4 tablespoons butter • 10-ounce package mini marshmallows • 6 cups Rice Krispies • Assorted sprinkles • Small chocolate Easter eggs, unwrapped • 1 plastic Easter egg • Nonstick cooking spray

1. Melt the butter over low heat in a large saucepan. Add the mini marshmallows and stir until they’re melted. Remove from heat, add Rice Krispies and stir until the cereal is coated with the marshmallow mixture. 2. Spray the inside of a plastic Easter egg with cooking spray. (You might want to spray your hands, too, to keep the concoction from sticking.) Fill each side of the plastic egg with the Rice Krispies mixture, slightly over-filling one side. Press the chocolate egg (I used Dove eggs — don’t forget to remove the foil!) in the center of one side of the egg, then push the two sides together. 3. As soon as the Rice Krispies egg has taken shape, release it from the plastic egg — the longer it sits in the plastic egg, the harder it is to remove. Decorate with colorful sprinkles and put aside until it is more firm.

CHALKBOARD

A glimpse at what’s happening in our local schools.‌

ABOVE: Students at Holy Cross Students participated in a donation dress down day to raise money for the people of Ukraine and the Assumption Ukrainian Catholic Church in Omaha. All money raised will be sent to Ukraine for those in need. The theme for the dress down day was “March Madness.” HOLY NAME SCHOOL‌

JOE SHEARER, COUNCIL BLUFFS DAILY NONPAREIL‌

Teacher Megan Frush, center, works with Edison Elementary School preschoolers La’vaya Schafer, left, and Jaxson Tietsort, right, as they play with shape tiles, letters and numbers on a light tray inside Frush’s classroom on Friday, March 11, 2022.

LEFT: Fourth grader Bryce Ward measures the shell of a tortoise brought in by Wildlife Encounters. Bryce and other members of the Prairie Queen Elementary 3D Printing Club will use the measurements to create wheel system prototypes for the tortoise, who is unable to use her back legs. PAPILLION-LA VISTA COMMUNITY SCHOOLS‌

Jacob Gregory as Elvis Presley at Aspen Creek Middle School’s People of the Past program, held Monday, March 7. The annual event gives students the opportunity to sharpen their public speaking skills. Each student researches a historical figure, writing a speech and performing it on the night of the program. The speech is “turned on” when a viewer donates money to the student’s jar. This year, the students collected $1,918.92. All funds are donated to the Gretna Volunteer Fire Department. RACHEL GEORGE, GRETNA BREEZE‌

April 2022

RACHEL GEORGE, GRETNA BREEZE‌

Clara Kruse browses the Scholastic book fair at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church on Thursday, March 3. The book fair was held in conjunction with the Pancake Man dinner, both fundraisers for Wee Lambs Preschool.

G. Stanley Hall sixth graders created an arcade out of recycled materials in a project-based learning activity. The arcade featured games from 14 different groups across the sixth grade classes. All grades got to play in the arcade throughout the day. PAPILLION-LA VISTA COMMUNITY SCHOOLS‌

NEBRASKA EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT‌

Mary White, 9, of Gretna Elementary School, with her winning “Be Prepared Storms Pop Up Anywhere” poster. White’s poster earned second place in the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency’s Severe Weather Poster Contest.

Bryan’s first-ever state qualifying robotics team poses for a photo at the State Robotics Tournament in Stromsburg. From left, coach Alex Muessigmann, freshman Mark Sanchez, freshman Devin Henk and coach Chris Peters. OMAHA BRYAN HIGH SCHOOL‌

BECCA HIER‌

The Bellevue West Forensics team was runner-up at the A-2 District tournament on March 5 at Lincoln Southwest High School. The Thunderbirds qualified 11 events in the state championships on March 15 and 16 at Kearney High School. State qualifiers: Ashlee Leighty, Andrew Hedin, Lexi Dinverno, Tamyia Bender, Kilee Wilkinson, Aarj Patel, Carter Hamblin and Bri Narick.

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THINGS TO DO IN APRIL Check out an Easter Extravaganza. Lauritzen Gardens, 100 Bancroft St., will host an Easter Extravaganza April 4 through April 18. Families can walk the trails to find 14 eggs, and then collect a prize and a book at the end. The fun, which goes from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day, is included with garden admission. www. lauritzengardens.org Learn about science in movies. On April 6, join Dr. Neil deGrasse Tyson, an astrophysicist, for a fun review of all the science that our favorite movies — including “Star Wars,” “Frozen,” “Titanic” and “The Martian” — got wrong and right. The twohour event — part of the Nebraska Science Festival — will start at 7:30 p.m. at the Holland Performing Arts Center, 1200 Douglas St. www.nescifest.com Have breakfast with the Easter Bunny. On April 9 and 16, head to the Omaha Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium for Breakfast with the Bunny. The breakfast will go from 9:30 to 11 a.m. in the Robert E. Dougherty Education Center. There will also be a very special egg hunt, as well as interactive stations throughout the Bay Family Children’s Adventure Trails. Member cost is $25 for children and $20 adults. Nonmember tickets are $30 for children and $25 for adults. Children who are 1 and under are free but still need a ticket. www. omahazoo.com

WORLD-HERALD NEWS SERVICE‌

Have fun at a Spring Eggstravaganza. On April 9, the Saddlebrook Community Center will host a spring eggstravaganza from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. The free event will include a storytime, an egg hunt in the gym (bring your own basket), playtime in the gym and a visit from Scamper. The community center is located at 14850 Laurel Ave. parks. cityofomaha.org and click on “Recreation Facilities” Celebrate spring at Gifford Farm. On April 9, visit Gifford Farm for their Spring Celebrate and Egg Hunt. The fun will go from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Activities will include hay rides and games. Admission is $5 per person

April 2022

for ages 1 and older. Reservations are required if you want to do the egg hunt. The farm is located at 700 Camp Gifford Road in Bellevue. Search ESU#3—Gifford Farm Education Center on Facebook

HANDOUT‌ THE WORLD-HERALD‌

Bring the whole family to Joslyn Art Museum. Family Day! at Joslyn Art Museum will take place April 9 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Stop by the Museum to explore Soñadora: Yuyi Morales. Enjoy stories read aloud, play games celebrating Mexican culture and make art of your own. Plus, welcome Yuyi Morales as she talks about her life and work and offers inspiration to young readers, writers and artists. After the program, she will sign books (available for purchase in Joslyn’s Hitchcock Museum Shop). Joslyn is located at 2200 Dodge St. www.joslyn.org Celebrate Children’s Day at Omaha libraries. Events will be held at various branches April 18-27. But on April 23, head to the South Omaha library for a special event. Kids can play a library-themed game of Lotería (BINGO). Additionally, children will take home a free book, while supplies last. Children of all ages and their families are welcome. El día de los niños/El día de los libros (Children’s Day/Book Day), commonly known as Día, is a celebration of children, families, diversity and reading. The library is located at 2808 Q St. Omaha.bibliocommons.com and click on the Events tab Meet Ms. Frizzle. Head to the Omaha Children’s Museum April 22-24 for Ms. Frizzle’s Wacky Science Weekend. The weekend will include a slime bar, catch science shows, a chance to make volcanoes erupt and more.

Hours are Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. www.ocm.org Celebrate Earth Day. The 33rd annual Earth Day Omaha will take place April 23 in Elmwood Park. The event will include more than 100 exhibits and vendors, live music, food and beer, a demonstration tent, family-friendly activities and much more. The event will go from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. EarthDayOmaha.org Enjoy breakfast as a family. The Sons of the American Legion Squadron 112 will host a Children & Youth Month Breakfast on April 24 from 8 a.m. to noon. The breakfast will include pancakes, eggs, sausage, juice and coffee. Cost is $8 for adults. Children 12 and younger eat free with a paid adult. During the event, kids can also see, climb and explore vehicles from the Irvington Fire Department, American Legion Riders, Omaha Police Department, Douglas County Sheriff, Nebraska Army National Guard and the Nebraska State Patrol. The breakfast will take place at the Benson American Legion Post (VFW Post #2503) at 8904 Military Road. Curbside orders will also be available. www.facebook.com/ events/4798353920246114 Learn about how to stay healthy. The YMCA Healthy Kids Day will take place April 24 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Stinson Park in Aksarben Village, 2285 S. 67th St. The event is

free and will include goody bags and helmets while supplies last. No registration is required. If COVID cases in the area begin to rise, Healthy Kids Day will be moved to a drivethru event on April 23. www.facebook.com/ events/1314459638965875 Learn about the science of ice cream and dry ice. On April 30 at 10 a.m., eCreamery staff will conduct a presentation on the “Science of Ice Cream and Dry Ice.” Students who attend will also be given a short tour of the facility, a lesson on how ice cream is made, a brief history of ice cream and the differences in density and composition between gelato, sorbet and ice cream. The event is for children ages 12 and younger. RSVP to nescifest@gmail.com. eCreamery Ice Cream & Gelato is located at 5001 Underwood Ave. www.nescifest.com Learn about forests. “Forever Forest” is now open at the Omaha Children’s Museum through April 16. Kids and families can explore the realities of forests through play while they learn about sustainability, selective harvesting, transportation needs, and every-day products that are made from trees. The exhibit includes a tree top climber, a mini replica of a Union Pacific engine, a kid-sized home under construction for children to help build and more. The Omaha Children’s Museum is located at 500 S. 20th St. www.ocm.org

Summer KidS Camp Guide You’ll find something for everyone

Girl Scout Camps

Papillion, Nebraska City, and Nickerson Day camps, resident camps, and weekend camps await all girls in grades K-12. Swimming, archery, challenge courses, horseback riding and more will fill her summer with outdoor adventures. Not a Girl Scout member? Join today for just $25 to attend camp! Transportation available to Papillion and Nebraska City camps. Girl Scouts Spirit of Nebraska, 402.558.8189, girlscouts.how/omahacamp2022

AMERICAN LEGACY COMPLEX HORSEMANSHIP CAMP

Learn about horse safety, grooming, horse breeds and colors, tack and equipment, riding styles and much more. American Legacy Complex offers horsemanship camps for kids ages 4-13. The weeklong camps for beginners/intermediates run from June 8 to July 17. An advanced camp will be held July 20-24. Campers will spend the majority of each day riding — all summer camp activities are geared toward learning horsemanship.

The Durham Museum Summer Camp Specialty themed camps like Camp Construction and Wizard Academy. Field trips, fun and learning! Half-day and full-day week-long programs, plus extended care, available for 1st-5th grades. With reduced camp sizes and enhanced safety measures, our goal is to provide a safe, enriching environment.

7193 County Road 40 402-468-4588 402-670-7220 www.americanlegacycomplex.com

June 1 – August 6, 2021 (half-day or full-day camps) 801 S. 10th St., Omaha, NE 68108 1st-5th Graders Members: $80-170/week, Non-Members: $90-190/week www.CampsAtTheDurham.org

Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium Let our animal experts take curious minds on fun and educational adventures. There’s something for every age and interest, including ocean exploration, nocturnal wildlife, animal babies, reef exploration, art in the aquarium, monkey business and even “gross-ology.” Our camps will provide the spark to keep learning throughout the summer.

JCC SUMMER CAMPS Summer calls for wild journeys, new experiences and fun discoveries! J Camp 2022 will provide just that. Each week campers will “travel” far and wide to engage in ‘kid approved’ activities including; sports, arts, song singing, nature, science and much more. Open to members and nonmembers. Register today for camps running June through August!

OmahaZoo.com 402-733-8401 3701 S 10th St, Omaha, NE, 68107

333 S. 132nd St. 402-334-6409 jewishomaha.org/jcc/camp

camp director what amount parents typically contribute — and then put in the same amount. Kids compare themselves with other kids, and no kid wants to be the odd one out with less money to buy candy than everyone else. Conversely, you don’t want to overcontribute to the candy account.

Summer Sleepaways

COMMUNICATE & SEND CARE PACKAGES

ADOBE STOCK

A guide for first-time camp families STORY Tanni Haas

There are few things more exciting in a kid’s life than their first overnight camp. How do you prepare your kids — and yourself — for this big event? Drawing on my own experiences as the parent of a teenager who’s a happy camper, as well as conversations with other parents, here are seven things you should do.

PREPARE FOR CAMP TOGETHER You want your kids to take ownership of this exciting experience. To do that, prepare for camp together: Search your house or shop for items on the packing list and pack jointly using luggage that isn’t too difficult to carry. Build excitement by talking about things your kids are

going to experience, and explain the rules and expectations of the camp.

HAVE A SLEEPOVER — OR TWO

Your kids are going to be away from you, possibly for the first time, for an extended period of time. Some kids have absolutely Whether it’s a sports camp or any other type no problem adjusting; others need to dip of camp, there are likely to be outdoor activities their feet in the water slowly, so to speak. where clothing will get stained, torn or ruined. Organize a couple of sleepovers with their Pack your child’s most durable play clothes, friends — and do it at their friends’ houses and make sure that there are items for both — to get them used to being away from you. sunny, warm days and cool, rainy days. Label CONTRIBUTE FUNDS TO THE everything with your child’s name. A good CANDY STORE friend forgot to do so for her daughter’s first Most overnight camps have a store where overnight camp. The daughter came home with kids can buy candy with money that parents all kinds of wild clothes they had never seen have contributed to an account. Ask the before.

PACK FOR ALL KINDS OF WEATHER

Find out what the camp’s policy is when it comes to communicating with your kids via text, email, letters and care packages. Are you allowed a certain number of texts, emails or letters? How many care packages are you permitted, and are there rules about what you can and can’t send? If you’re allowed to include toys in the care packages, choose things that your kids can enjoy together with the other campers. For our son’s first overnight camp, my spouse and I included several decks of playing cards in the first care package. The kids ended up playing cards with the camp counselors until late at night.

RESIST THE URGE TO HANG AROUND When you finally arrive at camp for the drop-off, do yourself — and your kids — a favor and leave once they’re settled. Take them to their cabin, help them unpack if necessary, and then extract yourself as quickly as possible. Your kids are eager to meet other campers, and there’s nothing as embarrassing as a parent who lingers for what appears to be no good reason. Let them start bonding and connecting with their counselors and fellow campers.

DON’T WORRY Once you’re back in the car, take a deep breath, and then head home. Your kids are going to be fine, and so will you. Trust me. The author is a professor in the department of communication arts, sciences and disorders at the City University of New York-Brooklyn College.

KIDS CAMP GUIDE JCC PREMIER CAMPS Art. Musical theater. Dance. Special interests. We commit to providing topquality programming that will enrich your child’s summer. Open to members and nonmembers.

333 S. 132nd St. 402-334-6409 jewishomaha.org/jcc/camp

April 2022

2840 County Road 13, Fremont 402-628-6465 www.CampRivercrest.org

JCC SPORTS CAMPS Basketball. Soccer. Cheer Team. Triathlon. Extreme Sports & more. We commit to providing top quality programming that will enrich your child’s summer. Open to members and nonmembers. 333 S. 132nd St. 402-334-6409 jewishomaha.org/jcc/camp

KIDS CAMP GUIDE

MCC College 4 Kids and College 4 Teens Keep learning fun this summer with College for Kids and College for Teens at Metropolitan Community College. With classes for children ages 3-18, there is something for everyone. Various metro Omaha locations 531-MCC-5437 mccneb.edu/ce/summerfun

Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum Camps Ignite the thrill of learning with camp offerings in aviation, engineering, robotics, space, science and technology! From June 5th through July 29th there are one-day or combo-day camps for kids in grades 1-8. Museum offers before and after care with optional lunch. The museum is just 20 minutes from Omaha. 28210 W. Park Highway, Ashland Will at 402-944-3100, ext 221 Registration is ONLY online with a credit card starting at: https://www.sacmuseum. org/what-to-do/education/camps/

Youth Summer Camps 2020 Since 1967, Camp Mount Michael has been providing boys ages 7-14 with summers filled with outdoor adventure, dedicated mentors and memories to last a lifetime. Campers have the opportunity to ride horses, shoot archery, swim and engage in other activities and games. Camp Mount Michael has developed one of the most respected and enjoyable camping experiences for boys in Nebraska!

22520 Mount Michael Road, Elkhorn 402-238-1457 mountmichael.com/campmountmichael/camp-homepage

2022 Summer Reading Program June 1-July 31, 2022 Read to receive great prizes and enjoy free, fun activities for every age group all summer long! Visit omahalibrary.org to learn more and browse a complete listing of events.

Vet Camp Created especially for children who have a passion for animals and veterinary medicine. Includes hands-on activities and a chance to practice skills real veterinarians perform! Junior and Intermediate camps available. Save $25 by entering code OWH22 at checkout! Address: Varies by camp; for locations visit our website. www.oxbowvetcamp.com

2315 | St. 402-556-7821 www.artsforallomaha.org

Western Plains Camp Nestled into the woods near South Sioux City, The newly renovated Salvation Army Western Plains Camp is a dream come true for kids ages 6-18. From fishing, canoeing, swimming and hiking to arts and crafts, campfires and cozy, rustic cabins, the Western Plains Camp offers the quintessential overnight camp experience.

570 152nd St., South Sioux City 402-898-7700 Https://centralusa.salvationarmy.org/ westernplainscamp

SPEND YOUR SUMMER ON STAGE at THE ROSE Does your child have a love of acting, dancing, singing, drama or musical theater? The Rose Theater offers camps for ages 2-18, beginners to advanced, at our new facility at 120th Street and West Center Road. The Rose is Omaha’s premier performing arts facility for young people. Classes are taught by leading professionals in the field. One-week and multiweek camps are available. 12100 West Center Road, Suites 505 & 506 www.rosetheater.org

YMCA Day Camps YMCA Summer Day Camps provide kids ages 5-12 with supervised activities that teach core values, conflict resolution, leadership skills, social responsibility and more. Campers have fun while they develop friendships, better their health, enhance literacy, develop skills, and gain independence while appreciating teamwork. YMCA of Greater Omaha 402-977-4300 metroymca.org/camp

Show signs of learning

Teaching babies to use simple sign language

The most useful sign language to learn, especially for infants and toddlers, will describe the things your baby most often sees, does or wants. The “I love you” sign is common.

LAURA A. JANA AND JENNIFER SHU

American Academy of Pediatrics

aby sign language is a trend that seems to have real staying power. Signing with babies is based on the simple observation that children can be taught to use their hands to “talk” long before their mouths can catch up. From what we’ve seen, infant sign language really does deliver on its promise of improved communication. This is particularly appealing for new parents, given that there’s a well-recognized gap between what babies and toddlers want to say and what they are capable of saying. It only makes sense that young children who lack the verbal skills necessary to say what they want, feel or need experience frustration, especially in the period between 8 or 9 months (when babies start to really know what it is they want) and 18 to 24 months (when they typically start to speak their mind). If basic sign language can help babies use their hands to better express themselves at as early as 8 or 9 months, it can mean the bridging of this otherwise monthslong communication gap. Signing with babies can also offer an opportunity for plenty of positive interaction, and anything that increases parent-baby bonding is a good thing in our book. One creative idea we love: Start adding signs to popular baby songs, such as “Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star” and “Old MacDonald Had a Farm.” There’s nothing wrong with teaching young children to “recite” the ABCs of sign language, but the most useful signs, especially for infants and toddlers, are going to be those that describe the things

patient 1 Be The baby-signing trend is based on the observation that babies taught simple signs at 6 or 7 months of age could begin using them to communicate as early as 8 or 9 months. You don’t have to wait until your baby turns 6 months to get started, but be realistic in your expectations for true signs of success. Don’t worry if your baby doesn’t get the signs quite right or doesn’t pick them up immediately. Remember the goal here is to have fun communicating and to lessen frustration.

up 2 Speak Be sure to still talk to your baby. As long as signing does not take the place of speaking, it won’t get in the way of your baby’s learning to talk with their words as well as their hands.

it a habit 3 Make As with much of the learning

PROT TACHAPANIT, DREAMSTIME

BEGINNING SIGN VOCABULARY Start with these words when teaching your baby sign language, and you’re sure to get the conversation going. Search “baby sign language” online to find instructional videos for learning these signs. • • • • • • • • •

Airplane Baby Ball Bird Blanket Book Cat Cup Cold

• • • • • • • • •

Daddy Diaper Dog Done Drink Eat Go Goodbye Good night

• • • • • • • • •

Happy Help Hot Hurt I love you Milk Mommy More Nap

• • • • • • • • •

No Outside Please Sit Sleep Thank you Up Water Yes

your baby most often sees, does or wants. There are lots of videos and primers online to help you learn signs for certain words. Just search online for “baby sign language” for help getting started. It’s easy to see why so many parents swear by baby signing, why many child care centers include it in their infant and toddler classrooms, and why it has become so commonplace as an activity of daily learning. Here are five big-picture tips to get you started:

your baby will be doing, repetition is key. For a better shot at success, make signing a daily habit and use the same signs each time for what is being conveyed. Tapping your fingers on your lips could convey “eat,” for instance. Bringing the fingertips of both hands together can signal “more.”

what you see 4 Sign Use signs to describe routine activities and common objects that make up your baby’s world as they happen.

your signs 5 Share Be sure you share your signs with your baby’s other caregivers so that everyone can understand once your baby begins to sign. If your baby’s child care provider is going to be the one teaching your baby sign language, be sure to ask for a quick tutorial.

Dr. Laura A. Jana is currently an Associate Research Professor at Penn State’s Edna Bennett Pierce Prevention Research Center. Previously she was Director of Innovation in Public Health at the University of Nebraska Medical Center and is the author of more than 30 parenting and children’s books. Dr. Jennifer Shu is a pediatrician at Children's Medical Group in Atlanta, and the medical editor of healthychildren.org, the website for parents from the American Academy of Pediatrics.

April 2022

T H E

R O S E

T H E A T E R

2 0 2 1 - 2 0 2 2

THE MUSICAL

Gerald the giraffe has a problem. All the other animals seem to know how to dance. The warthogs can waltz, the rhinos can rock ‘n’ roll, even the chimps can do the cha-cha! Gerald, with his long neck and skinny legs, thinks he cannot dance. That is,until he discovers that “sometimes when you’re different, you just need a different song.”

Rediscover the magic of live theater the entire family will love at The Rose! Share an empowering message about being yourself with Giraﬀes Can’t Dance: The Musical!

Based on the bestselling picture book, this brand new musical with original songs will transport you and your family to Africa where you will meet a cast of characters guaranteed to make you laugh and think. Most of all, Gerald’s story will remind you that we all can dance when we ﬁnd music that we love.

1 Y A M 8 R P A O N S TA GTEER L I V EA’S ROSE THE

And, of course, get set for an entertaining evening for the entire family at the world’s most beloved musical, The Sound of Music! THE MUSICAL

Apr 8 - May 1, 2022

Set the stage for an experience your entire family will enjoy – at Omaha’s beautiful Rose Theater!

Watch www.rosetheater.org for 2022-23 Season information coming soon!

OMAH

June 3-19, 2022

Tickets & members memberships available at www.rosetheater.org 24

April 2022