'hood Magazine July/August 2023

No gift is greater than an education.

To learn how to start saving today visit www.collegeaccess529.com.

Investors should consider the investment objectives, risks, and charges and expenses of the CollegeAccess 529 plan before investing. This and other important information is in the Plan Disclosure Statement, available at www.CollegeAccess529.com. Read the Plan Disclosure Statement carefully before investing.

Before investing, you should consider whether your state of residency, or your intended beneficiary’s state of residency, offers a state tax deduction or any other state benefits such as financial aid, scholarship funds, and protection from creditors that are only available for investments in that state’s 529 savings program.

The CollegeAccess 529 Plan is issued by the South Dakota Higher Education Savings Trust. The Program Manager and Underwriter for the CollegeAccess 529 Plan is VP Distributors, LLC, One Financial Plaza, Hartford, CT 06103, 800-243-4361. Certain of the investment management firms that manage underlying mutual Funds in the Program, including Virtus Investment Advisers, Inc., are affiliated with the Program Manager.

Only South Dakota residents and Account Owners who designate a South Dakota resident as Beneficiary can invest directly in the CollegeAccess 529 Plan. Certain Portfolios are not available to those who invest directly. Residents of states other than South Dakota can invest in the CollegeAccess 529 Plan only through a financial professional. Additional fees apply for investments made through a financial professional. Please see the Plan Disclosure Statement for details. State taxes may apply for residents of states other than South Dakota.

Notice: CollegeAccess 529 Plan accounts are not insured by any state, and neither the principal deposited nor any investment return is guaranteed by any state.

Give your child the freedom to dream with CollegeAccess 529

TOOPENTHE PUBLIC

FAMILY FUN FOR EVERYONE!

Acres of FUN!

• Jumping pillow

• Pool & spa area

• FREE miniature golf on the new 9-hole course!

• Plenty of photo ops!

• Corn maze (opens Sept.)

Expanded offering of pay activities including tye dye tshirts, ceramics,and laser tag. For more information call: 605-332-2233 jellystonesiouxfalls.com

Setting them up for lifelong success.

Our childcare programs facilitate each child’s social, emotional, physical, and intellectual development. Whether you choose our traditional preschool curriculum, Spanish Immersion, or KinderCollege, start your child’s early education here.

Themed activities & playgrounds, too!

EmBe.org

Cruising into Back-to-School FUNCRUISE

Our 4th Familyfest Fun Cruise is just around the corner! Families from all over the Sioux Falls area can spend the day together by cruising around town to check out local businesses. These businesses provide extra specials, giveaways, discounts, and activities for the whole family throughout the day of the cruise. You can visit as many or as few stops as you would like, whatever works best for your family!

You can find more fun summer events at thehoodmagazine.com. Our calendar has classes, festivals, and places to go with the whole family! If you want ideas to keep the kids busy, we also have activities, crafts, and recipes to make at home. If you are a stay-at-home or work-from-home parent, the mom of our cover story family summer survival tips in this issue.

While we’re still in the middle of summer’s heat, we are also looking ahead to back-to-school time. In this issue, you’ll find stories on preschool, hearing detection, and keeping them active through the arts. Our Ask the Experts are also talking about going back to school. Check out thehoodmagazine.com for even more tips.

I am excited about this year’s cruise and seeing all of you who attend. Our unicorn mascot, Fancy, will also be there, along with free Familyfest Fun Cruise Swag Bags with lots of goodies! Don’t forget to tag us in your fun photos and stories on social.

President & Publisher

Steffanie Holtrop

605-366-1479

steff@thehoodmagazine.com

Editor Miranda Ochocki editor@thehoodmagazine.com

Art & Design Director Ally Chase

Digital Media Director Jaclyn Small Calendar Jessie Paquette Intern Ellysia McElroy

Circulation Ben Graff and Laura Kattenberg

Cover Photo S. Kay Photography

Reproduction or use of the contents of this magazine is prohibited. ‘Hood Magazine is published 7 times a year by Hoodlum Productions, LLC and strives to publish only accurate information; however, Hoodlum Productions, LLC cannot be held responsible for consequences resulting from errors or omissions. All material in this magazine is the property of Hoodlum Productions, LLC and cannot be reproduced without permission of the publisher.

©2023 Hoodlum Productions, LLC All Rights Reserved.

Steffanie Holtrop Publisher

Conquer the First Day Fear

School will be back in session before we know it. The first day can leave children feeling anxious and even a little afraid.

Family Picture Season is Here

If you have ever taken a family photo, you know getting kids to cooperate is not the easiest task. Luckily we have an expert to help! Stephany from S. Kay Photography is giving us everything we need to know to make your family photo session a breeze this year.

Pet Allergies, What to Watch For

If you have ever wondered if your pet could have a food allergy: this one is for you! Mini-Critters is helping to teach us signs to watch for in their latest article.

Enjoy the Familyfest Fun Cruise in Style!

Claim Your Free Printable!

Keep schedules smooth as you transition into back to school time. Use our FREE printable to keep before and after school time organized and stress free.

Through July 12th, you can enter to win one of two “Cruising to Family Fun” giveaway packages from our friends at Voyage Federal Credit Union and SuFu Cruise. Included is 2 hours cruising the Familyfest Fun Cruise in a party bus! Your party bus will take you to any Familyfest Fun Cruise stops that you desire for 2 hours, while you get to sit back and enjoy the time with your family! Head over to familyfestsf.com to fill out the simple form for your chance to win one of these packages!

Don’t Miss a Beat:

Hearing loss is the most common condition at birth in the US. In South Dakota, 36-48 babies are born annually with permanent hearing loss. The number of children with permanent hearing loss increases by school age. Early detection is crucial for proper intervention and treatment.

Risk factors for hearing loss include family history, premature birth, low birth weight, frequent ear infections, exposure to loud noises, and specific medical conditions like meningitis or cytomegalovirus. Signs of hearing loss vary based on the child’s age. In infants, a lack of response to sound and failure to turn their head towards sound sources are indicative. In toddlers, difficulty following instructions, speaking loudly, and not responding to their name may signify hearing loss.

The Center for Disease Control and Joint Committee on Infant Hearing recommends the 1-3-6 rule for early hearing detection and intervention: hearing screening by one-month, diagnostic evaluation by a pediatric audiologist by three months if failing the screening, and intervention by six months if diagnosed. Early detection and intervention improve language development, academic success, and social skills.

South Dakota Services for the Deaf (605-637-5200) offers support for deaf or hard-of-hearing individuals, including early intervention services. Ehdi136.org provides information on ensuring newborns are screened, receive timely evaluations, and have access to early intervention services. EHDI-pals.org connects families with resources and a parent-toparent mentoring program. These resources help parents navigate their child’s diagnosis and treatment, fostering success.

From the experts at Sanford fit

Snacks vs. Treats: What’s the Difference?

Have you ever finished cleaning up from a meal with your family only to have your child ask you for a snack immediately after? When you hear the word ‘snack,’ are you imagining cookies, candy, and chips? If so, it might be time to rethink it!

A snack is a small portion of nutritious foods that we eat between meals when we feel hungry. Nutritious foods help to provide the fuel our bodies and brains need throughout the day. Try pairing a protein with a carb such as fruit, vegetables, or whole grains.

A treat is a less nutritious option that does not fuel your body and brain as much. These foods are often disguised as ‘snacks’ in stores but are packed with extra sugar and very few nutrients.

Snacks Treats

• Apple and nut butter

• Veggies and hummus

• Cheese stick and whole grain crackers

• Dried fruit trail mix

• Yogurt parfait

• Whole grain pretzels and cottage cheese

• No sugar added applesauce

• Fruit snacks

• Sugary cereal

• Chips

• Donuts

• Ice cream

• Candy

• Soft drinks

When talking about food choices with kids, try not to label foods as good or bad. Food is just food and we can all enjoy treats sometimes. Teaching kids to ask for snacks when they feel hungry and appreciate treats as an unexpected delight can help empower them to ask for what they need… or what they want.

Need more examples? Scan here to show kids which food options are always good choices!

by Lindsey Koehler

Balancing Business, Kids, and Sanity:

A Mom’sWork-from-Home Survival Guide:

Being a work-from-home mom has its challenges, especially when my husband and I own a business and I care for our children full-time during the summer. I have discovered some invaluable tips and tricks that have made my life easier.

I want to share these strategies for setting boundaries, prioritizing self-care, fostering independence in my children, and finding balance in this chaotic yet fulfilling journey.

Setting boundaries and communicating with my partner has been essential in maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Expressing my needs and discussing what works or doesn’t work ensures understanding and support.

Nurturing independence in my children has been empowering for all of us. I show them how to do it themselves instead of catering to their snack or drink requests. While it can be nerve-wracking and messy at times, teaching self-sufficiency has not only lightened my load but also instilled valuable life skills in my children.

While it can be nervewracking and messy at times, teaching selfsufficiency has not only lightened my load but also instilled valuable life skills in my children.

Prioritizing self-care is crucial amidst a demanding schedule. Incorporating regular workouts and engaging in activities that promote my mental well-being makes me a happier and more present mom. During my children’s screen time, I seize the opportunity to invest in myself.

Creating activity stations around the house that my children can manage independently establishes a productive work environment. Building with magnetic tiles, exploring kinetic sand, and engaging in coloring sessions keep them entertained while I focus on my tasks. Rotating these activities every 15 minutes strikes a balance between holding their attention and my productivity.

Sparking my children’s creativity is a priority. Surprise kits and activities, such as art projects or science experiments, keep them engaged, providing me with uninterrupted work time. Finding affordable toys and items through platforms like Facebook Marketplace helps keep my children active without straining our budget.

Managing expectations and embracing flexibility has brought peace to our family. Not everything falls into a “normal” schedule, and that’s okay. I’ve set up a cleaning schedule into 15-minute chunks where I tackle one or two each day. I may not always complete my tasks at specific times and meal hours may require some flexibility. By releasing the pressure to meet unrealistic standards for us, I have found peace and created a harmonious balance in our family life.

Leveraging support and delegation is essential. My husband and I will split up our three kids so I don’t have all of them home with me all the time. We have tasks they can help with at our shop. For delegation, getting our groceries delivered has been one of the top things to save our time and sanity. l

4 Things Our Calendar Can Do for You!

There is an abundance of seasonal and holiday activities in the area, but it’s hard to find them all in one spot. That is where the “Things to Do” section on the ‘hood website comes in!

Here are four things to know about the ‘hood Events Calendar:

1. Search function! If you want to know if something specific is happening, type in our search bar and hit enter – or use our advanced search function – to find just what you are looking for. You can even tailor your search by age and location to find the perfect outing for your family.

2. Friends or family in town? Find things to do with your guests to allow them to experience our great community.

3. Add in your own events! It may be the ‘hood calendar, but it’s for the community, by the community. If you have something going on that you want our readers to know about, add it to our calendar.

4. Don’t have time to visit our website? Sign up for our newsletter and get our top picks delivered right

A Space for Students to Showcase their Creativity

Teaching young souls to trust their own creativity and perform their own work is the dream of Amanda Hahn’s BritZa Performing Arts Studio.

I started dancing at BritZa Studios as a student when I was four years old. I began teaching at BritZa in 2006. Now I am full owner of BritZa Performing Arts Studio fka BritZa Studios as of January of 2021. There is no doubt that I have a love for dance, but all of the performing arts have had an instrumental role in my life.

My grandfather died when I was just one year old, but he loved to enhance the lives of others through the arts. That spirit lives on through me. He loved to write plays, dance, and produce puppet shows with marionettes, many of which he made himself. My grandmother was a speech teacher, loved live theatre, and always had opera playing through the car when we were growing up. My parents continued to enrich my life with the arts by taking me to see on and off Broadway shows.

I learned that dance offers an outlet to express emotions, theatre provides a way to experience the lives of others which creates empathy and understanding, and music moves the unspoken language of the soul. All three can be woven together in perfect harmony.

I like to dream big. We opened our brand new beautiful facility in January so we could create that harmony... with different offerings for students to share their gifts and talents with an intimate audience, all in a showcase space complete with theater lighting and sound.

So my dream for this space is to equip students to trust their own creativity and to perform their own work in completely student-led performances. Guided by professionals, students can explore the elements of the performing arts and see their creativity shine in all areas: lights, script, costume design, directing, make-up, choreography, sound, tech crew, set design, and more.

Join

Meal

For children ages 16 or younger

how it works

Special offers and discounts will be sent to your email 45 days prior to your child’s birthday to help plan their celebration. On the date of their birthday, coupons and/or offers from our partners will be emailed to you, redeemable for the specified time on each offer. Scan the QR code to join.

by Dawn Van Nieuwenhuyzen, Senior Mortgage Banker at Plains Commerce Bank – NMLS #21096

3 Tips to

Pay Off MortgageYour Early

Paying off a mortgage can be daunting. Fortunately, there are ways to pay off your mortgage early. Getting it taken care of can be a huge relief. If you’re ready to move toward paying off your mortgage early, I have a few tips to make that happen.

Biweekly Payments

Set up mortgage payments every other week. This adds up to 26 payments per year. Over time, this can cut down your 30year mortgage loan to 23 years! This can be especially effective if you receive biweekly paychecks, as you can set the payments for the same time as when you receive your paychecks. You’ll know that you get paid and take care of mortgage expenses all at once, leaving you to enjoy the rest of your month!

Bundle Payments

Make lump sum payments to cut down the amount you owe. Windfalls: a gift from grandma,

lottery winnings, or tax refund checks can be used to help pay your loan balance down ahead of schedule.

Bigger Payments

Add a bit extra to each payment that you make. This amount can vary – just do it! You can snowball, adding extra to your payment, starting small like $10, and then going to $20, $30, $50. Small increases will not break the budget but will still help in paying down interest. If you increase every loan payment even slightly, you’ll do yourself a favor by reducing the principal amount. l

FREE FAMILY FUN

The Familyfest Fun Cruise is back for a fourth year of fun! You will want to stay tuned to the Familyfest Facebook and Instagram pages and subscribe to the ‘hood newsletter to stay up to date with all the fun happening as we lead up to the main event on Saturday, July 22rd from 9am – 2pm.

What is the Familyfest Fun Cruise? Familyfest was reimagined in 2020 at the Fun Cruise as a new way for families to explore all that our amazing community has to offer! From 9am-2pm on July 22nd, families can spend the day together cruising to area businesses and organizations to participate in activities, enter to win prizes, and get some deals!

Does our family have to cruise to all of the locations listed? No! Your family can go to as many or as few stops as you would like and in any order! Many families will start at the swag bags stop at Lake Lorraine and then head to the stops that interest their family! You are in control of your family’s cruising experience!

Wait, did you say Lake Lorraine? Yes, the swag bag stop will be in the Lake Lorraine parking lot by the Wings Gymnastics and Child’s Play Toys stops. The 500 bags will be handed out starting at 9 am, 1 bag per family. Swag bags sponsored by Black Hills Federal Credit Union.

How do I know what stops might fit our family? Our listings, starting on page 20, will have a colored dot to signify what age groups these stops might cater to. Use the key at the top of the listings to search for the perfect stops for your family.

What is the cost of the Familyfest Fun Cruise? Absolutely nothing! It’s true! The Familyfest Fun Cruise is completely free for all families participating. Some stops may have additional items/services

available for purchase, but there is no purchase required to visit each stop.

What is the Familyfest Fun Cruise Digital Passport? At each stop location, there will be a QR Code for your family to scan. When you scan the code, you will be asked to enter your name, email and answer a question about that stop. Every time you scan a different QR Code and answer the question, you will earn one entry into our Familyfest Fun Cruise drawings for hundreds of dollars in prizes! Don’t forget you earn one entry each time you scan a new QR code at each location and answer the question, so have fun cruising to as many stops as you can!

We saved the best for last! Want to cruise in style? Through July 12th, you can enter to win one of the two “Cruising to Family Fun” giveaway packages from our friends at Voyage Federal Credit Union. Included is 2 hours cruising the Familyfest Fun Cruise in a party bus from SuFu Cruise for your family (up to 12 people), along with goodies and a Familyfest swag bag. Your party bus will take you to any Familyfest Fun Cruise stops that you desire for 2 hours while you get to sit back and enjoy the time with your family! Head over to www.familyfestsf.com to fill out the simple form for your chance to win one of these two packages.

Scan here to link to our website for more Fun Cruise information!

West Side & Lake Lorraine

Mall &Western Mall Areas

NOTE: Map locations are approximate, not exact

2023 CRUISE STOPS AROUND THE CITY on July 22nd from 9am-2pm!

FUNCRUISE

West Side & Lake Lorraine

STOP #3 l

sector 1

STOP #5 l

STOP #1 l

Lake Lorraine

Parking lot of Child’s Play Toys and Wings West

Swag Bag Stop at Lake

Lorraine, sponsored by Black Hills Federal Credit Union. Stop by to grab your swag bag, free to the first 500 families (1 per family). Find the ‘hood stop in the parking lot by Child’s Play Toys and Wings-West.

STOP #2 l

Apple Tree

Children’s Center

6400 W 43rd St

Choo Choo Train and Treat Trailer! Cruise to Apple Tree West’s location for family fun with free train rides, treats, and more!

Child’s Play Toys

2568 S Lorraine Pl

See what is new for toys, games, and educational activities. Cruise over to our Lake Lorraine and The Bridges locations for family fun and specials.

STOP #4 l

Color Splash Studio, LLC

2400 S Marion Rd, Ste 120

We are a new Hands-On DIY Tie-Dye Studio in town! We will have a display of the whole process and a koozie for everyone that visits! Check out the fun!

Wings - West

2556 S Lorraine Pl

Cruise into either location, enjoy some great carnival games, and explore all our class and care options. Plus enter a chance to win a free birthday party package!

STOP #6 l

The Sandlot (Pop-up)

Parking lot of Child’s Play Toys and Wings West

Pop by our Sandlot Pop-Up! Explore our sensory stations, leave your mark and paint on our giant mural, pull up a chair at our Lego table and so much more!

l Ages 0-4 | l Ages 5-9 | l Ages 10+ | l All Ages

CRUISE STOPS AROUND THE CITY on July 22nd from 9am-2pm!

l Ages 0-4 |

Ages 5-9 |

Empire Mall & Western Mall Areas

STOP # 1 l l

605 Ninja

2101 W 41st St, Ste 41

Come visit us and try ninja, aerial silks, and parkour stations. Ages 5+

STOP # 2 l

Acton Academy

Sioux Falls

4426 S Technology Dr

Swing by to see our innovative, mixed-age learner-driven school. Experience our Sparks Play Studio, complete a learning challenge, or create with unique materials! Lifelong learner gift basket giveaway ($100 value)!

STOP # 4 l

Ages 10+ |

All Ages

sector 2

Once Upon a Child Sioux Falls

3804 S Western Ave

Stop in and enter to win our Super Summer Giveaway! While you’re here, shop our AMAZING summer clearance deals.

STOP # 5 l

SCHEELS

2101 W 41st St

Join SCHEELS for a sweet treat inside their Fuzziwigs Candy Factory! Cool off with 25% off Dippin’ Dots Ice cream! Make sure to ride the Ferris Wheel while you’re here!

STOP # 6 l

SDSU ExtensionFamily, Food, and Wellness

4101 W 38th St, Ste 103 Family, Food, Wellness, and FUN! Cruise over for games and prizes. Try a brain boost activity or make a tiny greenhouse and every family leaves with a new book!

STOP # 7 l Up

Tempo Music Lessons

STOP # 3

l Butterfly House & Aquarium

4320 S Oxbow Ave

The Butterfly House & Aquarium will be hosting our mobile touch pool, crafts and games at this year’s FamilyFest. Come out and sign up to win a prize!

You can visit stops in any order and as many as your family wants.

2101 W 41st St, Ste 8 Music lessons kids love! Come try out guitar, piano, or drum lessons. Enter our drawing to win an instrument. Sign up for lessons and get 50% off your first month!

more listings next page >

CRUISE STOPS AROUND THE CITY on July 22nd from 9am-2pm!

l Ages 0-4 | l Ages 5-9 | l Ages 10+ | l All Ages

Bridges at 57th Street

STOP # 1 l

Bluepeak

5009 S Western Ave, Unit 200 Speed into Bluepeak’s NEW retail location to register to win a $500 Amazon Gift Card, a massive LEGO set, enjoy snacks, and learn about our fiber internet and television services.

STOP # 2 l

Child’s Play Toys

5005 S Western Ave

See what is new for toys, games, and educational activities. Cruise over to our Lake Lorraine and The Bridges locations for family fun and specials.

East Side

STOP # 1 l

Eastway Bowl

3201 E 10th St

Roll your way into Eastway Bowl and take your shot on our kid friendly lane. Everyone receives prizes, but only the first 100 get entered in for our prize giveaways!

STOP # 3 l

Oh My Cupcakes!

5015 S Western Ave, Ste 290 Stop on by for fun! And of course the cupcakes!

sector 3

STOP # 5 l

Shop Dog Boutique

5015 S Western Ave, Ste 130 Visit America’s COOLEST pet boutique and see what the buzz is about! Enjoy Shop Dog’s Crazy Days sale with great mark downs and a gift with purchase.

STOP # 4 l

Sanford Health

5015 S Western Ave, Ste 120 Stop by with the entire family for fun, engaging activities! We will have hands-on STEM, play centers, giveaways, bubbles, safety demonstrations, and the Zoo Express from 10am-noon.

sector 4

STOP # 2 l

Oh My Cupcakes!

3326 E 10th St

Stop on by for fun! And of course the cupcakes!

Enjoy the Familyfest Fun Cruise in Style!

Through July 12th, you can enter to win one of two “Cruising to Family Fun” giveaway packages from our friends at Voyage Federal Credit Union and SuFu Cruise. Included is 2 hours cruising the Familyfest Fun Cruise in a party bus! Your party bus will take you to any Familyfest Fun Cruise stops that you desire for 2 hours, while you get to sit back and enjoy the time with your family! Head over to familyfestsf.com to fill out the simple form for your chance to win one of these packages!

listings next page >

CRUISE STOPS AROUND THE CITY

STOP # 1 l

Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Beyond

5915 S Remington Pl, Ste 100 Prizes Galore! Redeem scratch prize, spin the prize wheel, sign up to win courtside Skyforce tickets & other prizes. Photo Booth with Thunder!

STOP # 2 l

BritZa Performing Arts Studio

1500 E 77th St

NEW LOCATION! Come enjoy a dance party under the disco ball! And, create your own fabric puppet and watch it come to life on our puppet stage!

STOP # 3 l

Creator’s Kids

6804 S Lyncrest Ave

Games for kids, tour of our center and freebies!

STOP # 4 l l

Dr. Brad Hruby Clinic

7600 S Minnesota Ave

Back to school bash! Get ahead of the game, with walk-in sports physicals for only $35! Plus a bounce house and giveaway for Wild Water West tickets!

STOP # 5 l l

Kids ‘R’ Kids of Prairie Hills

2201 W Trevi Pl

Stop by and join us for inflatables, snacks, and fun. Tour our facility and see what Kids ‘R’ Kids has to offer.

STOP # 6 l

SoDak Soda

2305 W Trevi Pl

Stop by to check out Sioux Falls’ first gourmet soda bar. Free mini sugar cookies and 10% off your purchase. Enter to win a $50 gift card and refillable tumbler!

STOP # 7 l

Sweet Cheeks

3609 W Avera Dr

Create-your-own ice cream bar! Enjoy 25% off from 11-2! Rewards members will be entered to win Sweet Cheeks gift cards. A perfect way to wrap up the day!

STOP # 8 l

Ultimate Automotive

1400 E 77th St

Games and fun for all! Plus, cool off with Sturdevant’s Auto Value Ice Cream Truck from 11:30-1:30.

STOP # 9 l

Wings Gymnastics

5825 S Bahnson Ave

Cruise into either location, enjoy some great carnival games, explore all our class & care options. Plus enter a chance to win a free birthday party package!

STOP # 10 l

Your Nurtured Baby

2309 W Trevi Pl

Check out Sioux Falls’ premier baby spa + boutique! Cool off with our Bubble Party in the parking lot while parents take advantage of our specials. Sign up for prizes!

Q+A WITH FAMILIES

Three families share their past Familyfest Fun Cruise experiences and give tips and ideas for making the most of this year’s event!

What things did you learn on the Cruise?

Did you visit new places?

We checked out some places we had never been to before and learned more about what Sioux Falls had to offer for a younger family!

Why would you recommend other families to participate this year?

It was a great way to try out new things, places and activities without any commitment. It let’s us learn more about what is going on in our community.

Why did your family participate in the Familyfest Fun Cruise?

We are always looking for fun things to do as a family! The Familyfest Fun Cruise being free is also a huge perk!

What were some of your family’s favorite things to do on the Cruise?

We loved Wings! We had never visited before, and our kids loved playing there. Since Familyfest, we have gone back as well! It was great to be introduced to a place for free first since sometimes you never know if it’s right for your family.

HALLIE MUNOZ

Anders 11, Ady 7 and Adler 2

Why did your family participate in the Familyfest Fun Cruise?

Familyfest Fun Cruise is a great way for us as a family to get quality time together! It gets us out doing things we don’t normally do. The kids have an absolute blast being able to go to and from and have all the options!

Any advice for how to plan your stops out?

Definitely! Plan some time to look at ALL the activities and decide what is most important to you! Be sure you make note of when the activities are done at the stops you want to make.

Why would you recommend other families to participate this year?

It’s a great way to support businesses and get out with your family for some fun. You will stumble upon something you did not know or find a new favorite spot for your family to hang! Everyone is so nice and the kids have a blast!

MAUREEN OHM

Declan 8, Cullen 6

What were some of your family’s favorite things to do on the Cruise? 605 Ninja is always a favorite stop that we prioritize. Acton Academy had a lot of different activities in an air conditioned space, so we really took our time there and enjoyed it thoroughly. Happy staff and good moods all around were a theme we encountered throughout the entire day. We had planned to only cruise for two hours, but we were all having such a nice time that we continued for the rest of the event which ended up being a total of 4 hours from the time we started.

What would you tell a first-time family doing the cruise? Pack some healthy snacks or even a meal because it is so much fun you will not want to waste time stopping for food.

Why would you recommend other families to participate this year?

The Familyfest Fun Cruise is more fun than you would ever guess. The participating businesses are really generous with offered activities and very welcoming.

by Sioux Falls Hope Coalition

Preschool Is the First Step to a Better Future

Preschool is a steppingstone to future success in education and in life. It has been proven to increase graduation rates, college attendance, employment and future income. Unfortunately, some households can’t afford to send their children to preschool. Sioux Falls Hope Coalition was created to provide free preschool to kids from those families. Because a child without hope is a child without a future.

According to research published by the American Economic Review, children who attend preschool are 3% more likely to complete high school and 39% more likely to finish college. As adults, they are more likely to have a professional job and much less likely to live in poverty or require public assistance.

In addition, preschool provides a strong foundation for learning and social success by helping develop critical skills prior to kindergarten. Preschool stu dents gain valuable self-confidence and learn necessary social skills like how to communicate and interact with others and how to display appropriate behavior in a classroom. They also develop vital motor skills like using scissors, holding pencils, and writing letters and numbers.

Sioux Falls Hope Coalition provides free preschool to children from limited-income households. They believe every child deserves hope and the opportunity to start their education with a solid foundation for future success. Not only is equal opportunity and access to education good for children, but it also makes a generational impact on their families and our community.

throughout the city, Sioux Falls Hope Coalition has provided free preschool to hundreds of local children from limited-income households. Enrollment is always open. You can apply anytime to see if you qualify and to get help planning your child’s preschool journey. l

Expert Ask the

Do you have a question for a Sioux Empire expert? ‘hood will be inviting area experts to weigh in and answer various questions from our readers.

participate in their sport.

When is the best time to get a sports physical?

We recommend completing your sports physical in the summer months and highly recommend completing this with your child’s primary doctor since they know their health history best.

What is a sports physical?

The physical is a two-part assessment consisting of a physical exam and going over medical history. The physical exam will examine your vitals, flexibility, joints, vision, and a quick fitness test to diagnose any potential limitations on physical activity

When is the best time to go to Disney?

Every day is a great Disney Day! There are times that are busier, but generally those also coincide with an event like the Epcot Flower and Garden Festival, or over the holidays where Magic Kingdom is decorated up.

Why is it so expensive?

There are ways to save money. I recommend bringing empty water bottles with. There are also “Good Neighbor” hotels and that have transportation and can save you money.

How much is a TA?

Most advisors are free to use. We LOVE to help plan amazing vacations, and the companies we book for you pay us directly. You can get the expertise of a travel planner, and no additional expense for your vacation!

students from Pre-K to the 12th grade.

• We provide in-person tutoring in our Sioux Falls, Brookings, or Mitchell centers. We also offer on-line options.

• Students start with an assessment, this assessment pinpoints the students key learning needs.

• Sylvan builds a personal learning plan based on the key learning needs of the student.

• Sylvan provides progress assessments and meetings with one of our Education Directors to monitor and discuss student progress.

How do I get started at Sylvan?

Call Sylvan at (605)362-4885. We can schedule your student’s assessment and answer any questions you might have!

sfsh.com/family-medicine

605-444-8650

allanarogge.com

612-702-3944

allana@academytravel.com

4816 S Technopolis Dr Sioux Falls, SD 57106 locations.sylvanlearning.com/ us/sioux-falls-sd

605-362-4885

Allana Rogge - Affiliate

YOUR WORLD IN OUR HANDS

PRIMARY PEDIATRIC CARE

They are a bundle of energy, smiles and snuggles one minute and causing mischief the next. But you wouldn’t have it any other way. To help keep your little ones going at top speed, partner with a pediatrician from Sanford Health. Whether it’s a well-child check-up, a cold or a complex medical issue, we’re here for all your child’s health needs.

Find a pediatrician for your child at sanfordhealth.org

fuel your play at

Start your day with delicious pastries and coffee while the kiddos play in our museums! Make sure you stay for lunch at The WP, featuring a tasty kids’ menu, fresh sandwiches and all your favorites.

open monday-saturday: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. pastries/coffee: served all day breakfast: 9-11 a.m. | lunch: 11 a.m.-3 p.m.