Lincoln Kids Magazine Spring 2023

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letter from the editor

Dear Lincoln Kids Readers, February is upon us and I will say, I have always loved celebrating Valentine’s Day with my kids. For many years, we picked up heart-shaped pizzas, or made sweet little baskets crammed with chocolates and crafts. I was, and still am, grateful for the extra moments to tell my kids how much I love them.

This spring edition is FULL of fun things to do with your kiddos. And, it’s also full of exciting camps and activities to send them to! Lincoln is so lucky to have camps galore and no matter what your child is interested in, you should be able to find the right place for them to thrive.

Our team will be partnering with several organizations throughout the spring to bring some Lincoln Kids activities your way! Make sure to sign up for our e-newsletter or follow us on social media so you don’t miss out.

I hope you find time as a parent to do the things you love this spring: hiking in Wilderness Park, reading a new novel, or soaking up a few minutes alone at a local coffee shop. I know from experience that finding time for you will go a long way.

Keep loving yourself and your kids well!

Christine Weeks, Publisher

Bluestem Health’s Piedmont Clinic

Sometimes family healthcare can be confusing. Luckily, Bluestem Health keeps its patients front and center. Our Piedmont Clinic is in central Lincoln, conveniently located in Bryan East. You can see one of our compassionate providers and get follow up labs and x-rays all in one place. You can also trust that Bluestem Health will really listen, to keep your family safe and healthy.

Help unscramble the healthcare words below, and then meet the team at Piedmont Clinic, the newest Bluestem Health clinic, at 1500 S. 48th Street, Suite 412, in Lincoln.

TPEOSTCEHOS

ANDEBGA

DOLBO RERSUEPS

What’s new at Piedmont Clinic?

The newest Bluestem Health location is Take time to meet them.

DNP, APRN-NP, FNP-C

Reba, mom of three, and a healthcare provider with a lot of heart - o ers comprehensive care for all of her patients.

Shahan MD, US Air Force

Dr. Shahan will make you laugh and keep you on the path to wellness!

Kelsa enjoys connecting with her patients and being able to make their lives healthier.

Bluestem Health

Piedmont Clinic is located inside Bryan East — call to schedule!

Andrew

Reba Cooksley

Kelsa DeGarmo PA-C

Habitat for Humanity: Planting Smiles This Spring

Families are the heart of Habitat for Humanity of Lincoln. Since 1988, Habitat has built more than 188 homes through their mission to build strength, stability, and self-reliance through shelter for families in Lancaster and Seward counties.

Habitat homeowners are typically first-time home buyers with incomes between 30-50% of the area’s median income in Lincoln. They are coming from living situations that can include overcrowding, leaky windows, mold, and unaffordable, increasing rent. They are hard-working families who want a hand-up, not a hand-out.

Cash and Whitney were childhood friends who reconnected as adults

wanting to bring their families together. They were living in a home with windows that leaked, and although Cash is quite the handyman, he was never able to keep up with the repairs their aging home needed. The blended family of six now lives in their very own home which is nearby a park so the kids are able to run down the block and play with their brand new friends.

Habitat homeowners build their homes alongside volunteers and then are able to purchase the home through a low-cost, affordable mortgage. As homeowners, these families now have an investment in their future and endless opportunities for their children. They are invested in their new neighborhood, pay taxes, and are able to develop friendships and relationships that make our entire community stronger.

Habitat is able to offer these low cost mortgages to families because of the work of our construction volunteers and through financial support from donations and funds raised through the Habitat ReStore. The Habitat ReStore, located at 5601 S. 59th Street in Lincoln, is a home improvement thrift store offering new and used household items at

a fraction of retail prices. Families can shop at the ReStore for furniture, home decor, appliances, building materials, lawn and garden items, and more. All proceeds go back to the mission of Habitat.

There are several ways that kids and families can help the mission of Habitat. While safety reasons require our construction volunteers to be 18 years or older, kids can help fuel the team by making sandwiches and lunches for the crew — the team loves a good peanut butter and jelly. The minimum age to volunteer at the Habitat ReStore is 16 years, but younger children can hold donation drives in their neighborhood for furniture and other household items to be resold at the ReStore. The ReStore will even pick up the donations. And kids of all ages can connect with their neighborhoods to do yard work for neighbors and neighborhood clean up, ensuring that everyone has a decent place to live.

Starting March 1, Habitat will be kicking off the Planting Smiles program. Families with kids are encouraged to pick up 4-inch terra cotta pots at the Habitat offices at 4615 Orchard Street in Lincoln, Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. They can then decorate them however they wish and return them to the office. Habitat will then find new homes for

these pieces of art. Some of the pots will be filled with beautiful flowers and gifted to new Habitat homeowners. Some of the pots will be resold to the public at the Habitat ReStore and help to fund our mission. And some of the beautiful pieces will be given as “thank yous” to the incredibly dedicated volunteers who do so much for Habitat families.

The Planting Smiles program is an exciting way for kids and families to give back to the mission of Habitat for Humanity this spring sharing inspiring artwork and “heart-work” with the community.

Learn how you can get involved with Planting Smiles at lincolnhabitat.org or lincolnhabitatrestore.org.

Sophia’s Story

BY CHRISTINE WEEKS PUBLISHER, LINCOLN KIDS

The story begins eleven years ago.

Elizabeth Drive. Meadowlane. Summer 2011

Sophia, Age 5

Sophia Jeneske moved in (with her family, of course) across the street from ours. Sophia was five at the time, and the same age as my twin daughters, Miley and Zoe. They became fast friends and spent most of their days in giggle fits, dress-up clothes, and checking in to see if Murray (the grandpa of the neighborhood) could fix their trikes or hook them up with messy, juicy, for-sure-to-be red popsicles.

Those three shared some sweet moments in their early childhood and we loved having Sophia fewer than 50 steps away. She was (still is) incredibly sweet and easy to love. One of those littles that you will always hold close to your heart.

As life would have it, sometimes incredibly hard things happen to the people you love. Sophia experienced a life-changing medical journey this year. One that you wish would never have happened but she’s here to convey the silver linings, and how she came through with a new perspective on life.

Flash forward a few years.

Mesaverde Drive. Taylor Meadows. Summer 2022

Sophia, Age 14

It was late July 2022, and Sophia was waking up to summer like all teenagers – after the sun came up and ready to do teenage things: listen to music, hang with friends, and enjoy the outdoors. But right when she woke up, she noticed that her right eye was swollen. She showed it to her mom, AKA Super-Mom Jess, who took her in right away to get some medication. Jess and the medical provider thought it was an allergic reaction, so they all hoped that it would resolve with meds by the next day.

Unfortunately, that was not the case. Twentyfour hours later, Sophia’s eye was more swollen than the day before, and cause for concern rumbled in their hearts. Jess reached out to her healthcare provider and she didn’t hesitate to take the next steps. She referred Sophia to have a CT scan so they could get a better look at what was causing the inflammation.

The results came swiftly and painfully; it wasn’t an infection but rather a large mass that was causing havoc in her eye socket. She was sent immediately to Children’s Hospital for more tests (insert long days, little food, ice chips, and unanswered questions) and then transferred to UNMC to be under the care of Dr. Chundury, an Oculoplastic Surgeon, to perform the specialized biopsy.

Four more long days and nights followed before the actual diagnosis would be determined. Those four days felt like an eternity to Sophia and her family. And then it came. And so did the darkness, shock, and her new path forward.

“Sophia, you have a very rare cancer called orbital rhabdomyoma sarcoma,” said the Pediatric Intensivist. “There are only 35 cases reported annually.”

She would stay with her aunt (and mother) who had expertise in this field and work with leading medical providers as they fought this cancer.

While in San Diego, Sophia was also able to have her chemo treatments and by the time you read this article, all of her treatments have officially ended.

When I interviewed her, she was still in the midst of treatment. Tired, confused by the cards this life had dealt her, and hopeful that she can move on with a new normal. The chemo and radiation treatments took their toll on her little frame: loss of hair, burnt skin from radiation, isolation from friends due to treatment, and the mental gymnastics of fighting through a cancer so brutal.

We’re hopeful for Sophia and reminded to reach out to those who are suffering even if it’s just a call or text. These years for sick kids can feel like decades and it’s good to pour out love and support to help them through.

To send a note of encouragement to Sophia, you can mail them to us and we will get them to Sophia and her family:

Lincoln Kids

The miracle in this difficult situation was that Jessica’s aunt, “just happened” to be a retired radiation oncologist and worked at a Cancer Center that provided Proton Therapy - precision radiation therapy - that is not available in Nebraska. Because Sophia’s cancer was in one eye socket, it was imperative that the radiation be delivered to exactly the right place and not outside of those boundaries, which could damage her other eye and her brain tissue.

Sophia’s pediatric cancer team decided that she would start chemo at UNMC for 12 weeks and then Sophia would go out to San Diego to be treated at the California Proton Center, affiliated with Rady Children’s Hospital.

Attention: Sophia Jeneske 701 P Street Suite 202 Lincoln, NE 68508

Between the rareness of her cancer, and the fact that she has cancer in her eye, the Jeneskes were trusting that God would provide in some way, somehow a clear path forward.

And that’s exactly what happened.

Lincoln Moms of Lincoln Kids

We know this is Lincoln Kids magazine, but where would the kids of Lincoln be without their moms? We asked ourselves this question, put pen to paper, and we invite you to meet three Lincoln Moms who have unique perspectives on what it’s like to raise kids in our fair city.

Meet the Moms

Liza is a mother, a motivator, and a mover! She owns LP Fitness here in Lincoln and has a passion for helping people achieve their fitness goals. She is a mom and a bonus mom with stories that will encourage you to make small changes that will have a lasting impact.

Tysha is a long-time educator and a compassionate mother. She recently became a grandmother and her heart has expanded to a whole new level. Tysha has balanced work and motherhood with grace and consistency. She is as steady as they come!

Emily, a k a Dr. Willett, owns Lincoln Orthodontics and she wears so many hats! She has three young kids, an adoring husband, and makes her patients feel like they are her top priority. She’s created thousands of beautiful smiles throughout Lincoln and the surrounding communities!

Liza Mendoza House

What are the names and ages of your kids?

Fabian is 16, and Bonus Daughter Laila is 6.

What do you love about being a mom?

I love watching both my kids grow up and their personalities change. It’s the cutest thing watching Fabian and Laila together and how much Laila looks up to her big brother.

What do you enjoy about owning your own business?

I love the fact that I get to change lives for a living. I have the most rewarding ”job.” I love providing a zero-judgment gym with all fitness levels. I get to teach people how to lose weight, build muscle, and reach goals by fueling their body with a lot of amazing, non-processed food. I love seeing people’s confidence change right in front of my eyes.

What are you reading and/or watching right now?

I just got done watching Yellowstone. I’m pretty sure I can be a cowgirl now. LOL!

What are cute things your kids are saying or doing?

Laila couldn’t say her L’s for the longest time, so she would always call me

“WIZA.” When her dad and I got married, we made a sign for her to carry down the aisle, that said “Here comes Wiza, Daddy.”

My husband is from Texas and has a very strong southern accent. Fabian has all of us laughing when he mimics Cory’s accent. We were all about in tears at dinner the other night.

Tysha Lauterbach

What are the names and ages of your kids?

Haley, 27. Jamison, 24. Emma, 22. Carson, 18. Grandson Krew, 5 months!

What do you love about being a mom and grandma?

I absolutely love being a mom. I can’t ever remember not wanting to be a mom. I have loved experiencing every different stage of life with my kids. I love their uniqueness. I love watching them grow into the people they are meant to be. Being a grandma is the best!  So much overwhelming love. It’s so amazing watching your own child be a parent, the feeling is hard to explain.

What do you enjoy about your career?

I am a teacher, and I’ve always thought that being a parent makes you a better teacher and vice versa. The roles are sometimes interchangeable. The experience in the classroom benefitted me as a mom and the experience of being a mom benefited me in the classroom.

What are you reading and/or watching right now?

I’m a big fiction reader. I just finished The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah. I’ve been working my way through the Colleen Hoover books. I am also currently reading The Positive Dog by Jon Gordon. It’s about the power of positive thinking.

What are cute things your kids and grandkid are saying or doing?

Well, my kids are all adults so they aren’t really saying anything cute. But they are all very funny, and we laugh so hard when we’re together! My grandson is always cute but he’s too little to be talking yet! He is rolling over and is very interactive!

Dr. Emily Willett

What are the names and ages of your kids?

Lydia is 6, Peter is 3, Anna is 10 months.

What do you love about being a mom?

My kids are so fun to be around (most of the time), and my husband and I love to see the ways their personalities are evolving. I’m a sucker for a good bedtime snuggle, but I especially love the way being a mom makes me always strive to do better and be better.

What do you enjoy the most about being a business owner?

I love that it gets to be a true reflection of me and I get to decide who and what I surround myself with each day. There are definitely challenges and ups and downs, but how people feel when they visit my office is very important to me and I get to make sure it’s a positive experience.

What are you reading and/or watching right now?

I love reading and have a few good ones going right now: All Good People Here by Ashley Flowers and Empty Mansions by Bill Dedman. And I just binged Emily In Paris, which I wanted to hate, but love!

What are cute things that your kids are saying or doing?

It is so special to watch my kids play together! Lydia is a very patient big sister and does a great job of including Peter in her play. They also both are so sweet and doting on littlest sister Anna and they like to snuggle her in the mornings while getting ready for the day. They “read” books together and I love to hear their interpretation of the pictures or how they have memorized our family favorites. Siblings are lifelong friends.

Wasted Food — How Rude!

BY WILLA DICOSTANZO, WASTE DIVERSION COORDINATOR, CITY OF LINCOLN

Wasted food is a problem. In America, 40% of the food is wasted; yet, 1 in 8 Americans struggle to put food on the table. It takes a lot of resources and energy to make, transport, deliver, and consume the food we eat. Wasted food also wastes your hard-earned money. The average family of four spends about $1,500 on food each year that ends up being uneaten.

Does this happen in your home? Log what you throw-out for a week and see if you have any wasted food. Follow these helpful tips to reduce the waste you produce:

1. Think before you shop; write a list, set a budget, and stick to what you need.

2. Organize your fridge and freezer and check the temperature to make sure they are cooling properly.

3. Make an “eat me first” shelf and keep foods close to spoiling in front so they aren’t pushed back and forgotten.

4. Eat your leftovers.

Best If Used By / Before Indicates when a product will be of best flavor or quality. It is not a purchase or safety date.

How Can You Keep Food Fresh?

The door is the warmest part of the fridge. Don’t store things that are quick to spoil such as milk and eggs.

• The lowest shelves in the fridge are the coldest. Store things such as meat, chicken, and fish there.

Refrigerate peeled or cut vegetables.

The freezer is your friend; it’s a great place to store foods and retain quality until you eat them.

• Fruit goes bad quicker if kept at room temperature. Keep your fruit bowl in the refrigerator.

Little fruits such as berries, cherries, and grapes should not be washed until right before you eat them. This helps prevent mold from growing. When you do wash them, use water and vinegar to help remove bacteria.

Use By is the last date recommended for the use of the product while at peak quality. It is not a safety date except for when used on infant formula.

Display Until / Sell By tells the store how long to display the product for sale for inventory management. It is not a safety date.

Freeze By is the last date recommended for the use of the product while at peak quality.

summer camps

In the pages that follow, you’ll find amazing local camp options to make your summer spectacular.

Ready, Set, Go with Summer Learning

Beginning Reading Foundations

Summer Program

Prepares students for Kindergarten!

Ages 4 - 6

May 30 - August 4

Register by 4/30 for Early Bird Pricing: $2,400

Study Skills Camp

This introduction to our Study Skills Program is designed to help students become independent learners and tackle increasingly demanding school workloads.

Grades 6 - 12

July 17 - July 28, 10 AM - 12 PM

Register by 4/30 for Early Bird Pricing: $699

Robotics

This is a lively introduction to building and programming robots using LEGO®.

Ages 5 - 7

July 10 - 13, 10 AM - 12 PM

Register by 4/30 for

Early Bird Pricing: $350

Spring Mini-Camps & Summer Camps

SPRING

(on select days when schools may not be in session)

Who: All youth ages 5-12 (must be enrolled in Kindergarten)

Dates: 12 spring dates offered – see website for exact dates

Time: 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

Cost: $45 per day

Explore, Discover, Create

Summer Day Camps

June 5-July 28 • Ages 6-13

Featuring Music, Animals, Space, Forest Adventures, Nature Art, & Outdoor Experiences!

Register at www.prairiehill.com, call 402-438-6668 or email admin@prairiehill.com

Prairie Hill Learning Center | 17705 S. 12th St. Roca, NE Nebraska's First Wind and Solar Powered School

SUMMER

May 30 - August 11, 2023

Who: All youth ages 5-12 (must have completed Kindergarten)

Dates: 11 week-long sessions (running May 30-Aug. 11)

Time: 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

Cost: $160 per 5-day week

Working Together: Child Care and Education

For more information or details about camps, visit us online or contact Katie Zabel at kzabel1@southeast.edu

southeast.edu/lincolnchildcare

GET IN on the

Registration begins

SATURDAY

MARCH 4

Hands-on learning experiences for K-8th grade students

Variety of STEAM-infused topics

Half-day and full-day camps

Before Care and Lunch Care available at select locations

Scholarships available

2023 CAMP WEEKS

June 5–9

June 12–16

June 19–23

June 26–30

July 10–14

YOUTH SUMMER CAMP

A TRADITION FOR 7-14 YEAR OLD BOYS SINCE 1967!

WEEK 1 WEEK 2

WEEK 3 WEEK 4

Activities

Archery Outdoor games

Drawing & painting Swimming Hiking

Olympic Day!

Camp Mount Michael is a one week overnight summer camp on Mount Michael's campus- over 440 acres not far from the Elkhorn River. There are woods to explore, targets to shoot, and all kinds of other fun activities-- exactly how summer camp should be!

REGISTER ONLINE AT WWW.MOUNTMICHAEL.COM

Questions? Contact Camp Director, Tom Maliszewski, at 402-238-1457 or tmaliszewski@mountmichael.com

Park It!

Nebraska Outdoor Education Center

Lincoln, NE

This family-friendly spot offers archery with instruction for all ages, as well as educational programming. From late May through July, kids can explore the natural world and learn new skills at the popular day camps.

There are so many great Nebraska State Parks in and around Lincoln — here are a few of our favorite, offthe-beaten path places to explore, now that winter’s on the wing and plants and animals have so much life to show!

3

Schramm Park State Recreation Area

Gretna, NE

This park is a hidden gem, offering beautiful, wooded hiking trails, great birdwatching, a geologic display, picnicking and a modern playground. Don’t forget to visit the state-of-the-art Schramm Education Center, which teaches visitors about Nebraska’s ecosystems through interactive exhibits.

Conestoga State Recreation Area

Denton, NE

A popular getaway for Lincolnites, Conestoga offers boating, picnicking, biking, and RV and primitive camping. The lake, which was restocked in 2018 following an improvement project, offers keeper-sized largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, channel catfish and walleye.

Platte River State Park Louisville, NE

Kids can enjoy exploring the trails, the park’s picturesque waterfall, a spray park, two observation towers and Crawdad Creek, which allows kids to get muddy and catch minnows, tadpoles, crawdads and frogs. Grab a bite to eat at the park restaurant and stay the night in a modern cabin.

Bluestem State Recreation Area Martell, NE

This 742-acre area has great spots for picnicking and camping, as well as a lake, making it a perfect place for a closeto-home getaway. Bluestem also has good fishing opportunities and an archery range where both new and experienced archers can practice their skills.

check out wonderbowl!

mini bowling

Similar to traditional bowling, but everything is scaled down! W ith bowling balls the size of grapefruits, pins 7 inches tall, and lanes half the size, you’ll have a brand new kind of bowling experience.

birthday parties

If you’re looking to celebrate in fun-sized style, you’re welcome to rent out our guests. You’ll get 2 lanes, pizza, pop, and all the bowling you want! Bring the dessert and we’ll do the rest.

all people welcome

Whether you’re looking for a fun new twist on date night, or somewhere to enjoy good old-fashioned family fun, Bob & W illie’s Wonderbowl is the place you want to be.

Spring has Sprung!

ACROSS:

DOWN:

1. A small pool of water

2. These will save your feet from puddles

4 A light amount of rain

6 One of the first birds to appear in spring

7. hides eggs on Easter

10. April bring May flowers

11 The first month of spring

3. You need to plant these for flowers to grow

5. Colorful insects that fly

8 A day for playing tricks

9 2 wheels, a handlebar, seat & pedals

12. is celebrated on April 22

13. A four-leaf brings good luck

14 The early bird gets the

Children's choirs for boys and girls in 2nd - 8th grade

Advanced and Beginning level singers accepted! No audition required 2022-2023 registration open now!

www NebraskaChildrensChoir org

402-202-0565

nebraskachildrenschoir@gmail.com

AUDITIONS BY APPOINTMENT

UPCOMING SPRING CONCERT

How Can I Keep From Singing

Sunday, May 21, 2023

Vance D. Rogers Center for Fine Arts Nebraska Wesleyan University

7811 Pioneers Blvd. #108 (531) 500-5716

getmaize.com

Tues-Sat: 11am - 9pm Sunday: 12pm - 7pm

Lincoln’s Choice for the Freshest Gourmet Popcorn in Town, along with a-MAIZE-ing Soft Serve Ice Cream and FREE SPRINKLES!

Tag! You’re It!

A LINCOLN KID (AT HEART) LOOKS BACK

There comes a time when you play games with your neighborhood friends for the last time, and you don’t realize it’s the last. And then, years later, seemingly out of nowhere, you realize you’re part of the older generation, and it’s now your duty to pass on the grand tradition of games to the new kids on the block. Such has been the experience of this former Lincoln Kid, who, without any Lincoln Kids of my own, now has the honor of being a Lincoln Uncle and Lincoln Godfather — and I take my game-teaching responsibility very seriously.

Here are a few I’ve had the joy of sharing with godchildren, nieces, and nephews.

Hide & Seek

The classic. Who doesn’t love the thrill of finding the most clever hiding spot they can fit into and thwarting the “It?” For anyone who grew up without Hide & Seek, the rules are simple — one person is decided to be “It” — the Seeker. The It closes their eyes, counts to an agreed-upon number of seconds, then shouts, “Ready or not, here I come!” before going about and discovering the Hiders. Rules vary between different versions of the game, but we always play it so that the first Hider discovered is the new It, and the last person discovered wins the round. If the Seeker gives up, or if it’s dinner time, the Seeker may call “Olly, olly, oxen free!” to end the round. Hide & Seek is a great intro game for a lot of younger kids, as you can have a buddy to help count and look for the Hiders. It’s also fun to see how hard some Seekers focus. When my oldest godson was old enough to be It, one of my favorite hiding spots would be to stand in plain sight next to one of his parents. He was so determined to find a secret hiding spot, that an obvious one was inconceivable!

There’s also a version of Hide & Seek (better suited to outdoor play, with room to run) where players may choose a Home Base. Home Base is where “It” will count, and players can make themselves Safe by reaching Home Base — before being tagged themselves.

Tag

Tag is clean and simple — the power of the “It” transfers with a tag. No counting or hiding necessary. The hectic (and sometimes too-easy) nature of Tag invites variation, and the variations are often times more fun than OG Tag.

These variations include, but are not limited to: Freeze Tag — Players freeze when tagged, and can be unfrozen by the tag of another player; play continues until all players are frozen. Tunnel Tag — When tagged, players must stand with feet far apart to create a tunnel, and can be freed by another player crawling through. Play continues until all players have been tagged.

The Order Games

I’m grouping these together because they feel like they’re part of the same family. Simon Says starts with a Simon who issues orders (“Simon Says jump on one foot!”), but anyone who follows an order that is not prefaced with the phrase “Simon Says” is eliminated until the next round, which begins when there’s only one person left.

This is similar to Ships & Sailors, where a caller, on one end of the room, shouts nautical terms to the other players. A “Ships!” command tells players to run toward the left side of the room, and “Sailors!” sends them to the right. “Hit the Deck” tells everyone to drop to the ground, and so on. There are DOZENS more, but essentially, the goal is to keep going until the caller has exhausted all but one winner.

I’ve run out of space, which is a good thing, because I could go on forever. If you’ve got a backyard game you really love playing, or if you have a variation of any of the games listed here, send it to hello@lnkkids.com, and we’ll share it around! Get out there and play!

Teacher Feature: Get to Know Coach Bo

If you’ve been to a Lincoln High Athletic event in the past 15 years, then you’ve come across Coach Richard Bollen, the Assistant Athletic Director, referred to as Coach Bo.

Lincoln Kids Magazine sat with Coach Bo so we could get to know him a little better.

Hi Coach. Let’s start from the beginning. Tell us a little about your upbringing?

I grew up in Indianapolis, Indiana. Like many young boys, I wanted to be a college and NFL football player when I grew up, and a businessman. After my mom passed away my senior year of high school, coaches and my grandmother encouraged me to send my football films to colleges. The University of Nebraska-Lincoln was one of them and they invited me to walk on. That is how I got to Lincoln.

Walk us through your experience to finding your passion for working with kids?

I stopped playing football after my third year at UNL. In hindsight, I should have continued, but I did continue going to school, working on a psychology/sociology degree. An academic counselor got me into a class for an education practicum. She must have known

How did you end up at Lincoln High?

While in college, I worked with Family Service before and after school and subbed. After graduating, I applied at Lincoln Public Schools and got a para educator job at Culler and coached basketball. My Associate Principal saw something in me and encouraged me to get my teaching certificate, and supported me the entire time. During my student teaching, I taught kindergarten and reading in the morning at Clinton, and in the afternoon, I went to Park to work with 9th graders during their study hall.

To make a long story short, once I got my teaching certificate, I taught at Culler for three years, Northeast for five years, volunteered and coached football and girl’s basketball all over the place, including Husker camps. I have been at Lincoln High for 15 years and counting.

What are your responsibilities at Lincoln High?

In addition to my athletic department duties: keeping up with kids’ grades and attendance, working with recruiters and coaches, and planning and supervising athletic events, I also appraise/review teachers and supervise students at lunch and in the hallways.

What do you often tell students and athletes to encourage them?

“You know better. Do better.” It is important to have high expectations of students, while also getting to know them and giving them chances to make good choices – so they can accomplish their goals.

What advice would you give student athletes who want to play at the collegiate level?

Show your coach and team consistency, mental toughness, and a strong work ethic.

What is your greatest accomplishment in life?

Definitely becoming a husband and father to my wonderful family. I’m very proud of my kids, Liv, 19 years old, South Dakota State Softball; Tre, 16 years old, Lincoln Southeast High School, and Zaya, 13 years old, Schoo Middle School.

I am also proud to say I was an original part of Teammates through the University of Nebraska Football Program, and I have had two Teammates!

What makes you good at your job?

I have always been a good “get-back” coach - I’m straight with people, kids too, and good at keeping them in line. I think this is because they know I care and want them to do well.

What are you working towards in your career?

I have been focusing on mentoring coaches and teachers. Talking to them about making connections and networking in the community and for the benefit of their students.

What is special about Lincoln High that everyone should know?

From leadership to individual teachers, we are great at building relationships and real connections with students, which we believe promotes growth. Don’t get me wrong, we care about grades and attendance, but we also understand that students and athletes are more than that, so we try to see the full picture. We are very student-focused.

We asked students and peers to describe Coach Bo.

“I enjoy watching Coach Bo interact with kids of all ages. He, above all, is kind. He listens to what kids say and is always encouraging them to do what is right.”

– Jeff Barger, Executive Assistant/PA Announcer, Lincoln High

“We like that Coach Bo is kind, personable, and easy to talk to. He’s always available, gives us snacks and Gatorade, and provides advice.”

– Lincoln High Girls Basketball Team

“We’d describe Coach Bo as kind, caring, and helpful.”

– Lincoln High Students: Mak Thomas, Jada Nguyen, Sofia Caruso, and Kayleigh Miller

When asked what he’d like to share with kids in Lincoln, Coach Bo said, “Keep doing your homework, read, go to school daily, and listen to the people who care about you – teachers, moms and dads, grandparents, and coaches.”

Disgruntled Dad: Driving in Cars With Kids

BY A DISGRUNTLED LINCOLN DAD

Lately, I’ve been thinking about all the reasons I love driving places with my kids (said no parent, ever).

It starts innocently enough with that first magically terrifying drive home from the hospital.

“WHAT ARE THESE OTHER DRIVERS DOING ON THE ROAD!? GIVE ME SPACE, PEOPLE!”

Then before you know it, they’re wailing and puking and massaging applesauce into the upholstery. Filthy animals.

Fortunately, after a few years of wanton automotive interior/eardrum destruction, they settle down… and start to talk, and talk, and talk.

schoolers add a few years and introduce amazing new features. Like begging to play their music and (gulp) drive the car!

At least this combination comes with the silver lining that listening to tweens caterwaul about their earth-shattering heartbreaks at max volume significantly decreases my anxiety about how close we’ve been swerving toward oncoming traffic.

Yep, it just keeps getting better every year… until it stops. Sixteen rolls around and “poof” the kids up and vanish! Not just from the backseat, but from your life. All of sudden, instead of asking, “What time do you need to be picked up?” it’s, “Where are you going?” and, “What time will you be home?”

“Dad, do you want to play the animal guessing game?”

“Dad, what’s your favorite Pokémon?”

“Dad, what do you think my favorite Pokémon is?”

“Dad, why are we stopping at the liquor store again?”

Riveting dialogue, I know. Especially when it runs on an apparently inexhaustible loop.

But wait, there’s more! Before you know it, those innocent, relentlessly irritating grade

So, if you see me out and about, gripping the passenger door handle while trying to simultaneously explain the mechanics of a turn signal, and carry on a conversation about make-believe animals with “Olivio Rodego” wailing about the two-week Instagram tryst that scarred her tender soul forever, know that, despite all appearances, I’m loving it. Disgruntled Dad always smiles through gritted teeth.

Celebrate With Us! The Week of the Young Child Is Almost Here

The Lincoln Chapter of Nebraska AEYC invites you to participate in the week of the Young Child! Caring adults should find ways to help children move, interact with others, learn, talk, sing, and dance. We encourage everyone to honor children each year in April.

Join with NAEYC (National Association for the Education of Young Children) to Celebrate the National Week of the Young Child, April 1 - 7, 2023.

Kick off the week on Saturday, April 1, using some of the ideas below.

Share on social media why you celebrate Week of the Young Child (WOYC) and what you do to prepare

• Take some time for yourself. Reorganize and reenergize for the week ahead

Create a dancing playlist for Music Monday Find ingredients in your kitchen for a Tasty Tuesday activity

• Find ways to help others on Work Together Wednesday

• Gather your arts and crafts for Artsy Thursday

Educators, you can email parents about what to expect during WOYC 2023 and how they can prepare for Family Friday activities

Learn more at naeyc.org/events/woyc/overview.

Spot 10 differences

All About KidsPark

We all have those moments as parents when we need an extra set of hands or childcare falls through. That’s where KidsPark comes in. We sat down with Katie Krivolavek, owner of KidsPark Lincoln, to learn more about her passion for helping kiddos and parents.

LK: Where are you from and how did you get started with KidsPark?

Katie: I was born in Kansas and raised in Kansas City. I went to KU for Early Childhood Education, and my plan was to be a preschool teacher. I found a preschool teaching job at KidsPark in Olathe, Kansas. I met my husband (he’s from Nebraska), and we got married and moved to Lincoln. I was a teacher at LPS for a few years and then stayed home with my babies — Kennedy and Maddison — for awhile. I was pushing two toddlers in a cart in Target one morning, thinking, “I just need KidsPark!”

It was right around that time, I told my husband that I wanted to open a KidsPark here in Lincoln. I LOVED working there and I knew that fellow Lincoln parents would benefit from it too. We officially opened our doors in 2015, ten days after the birth of our youngest, Oliver.

LK: What’s a typical day like at KidsPark?

Katie: We have activities every hour and we are all in one big open room. It’s more of an entertainment setup. I’m a big believer that kids are learning the most when they are playing, especially at a young age.

We don’t have an extremely structured center. The day is moving, flowing, and changing. For example, if it starts snowing we might start doing a snow craft; it’s very flexible.

LK: What ages do you take?

Katie: 18 months through 10 years old.

LK: How does it work? Say it’s a Monday morning and I realize I don’t have daycare, can I drop off my kids?

Katie: Yep! You would register online or when you drop off. Then you sign a few pieces of paper and you are good to go.

LK: Does KidsPark have a preschool?

Katie: Yes, we offer preschool Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. You can come on a regular basis, or it can work as a drop-in option.

LK: How many staff do you have at the center during the day?

Katie: It depends, typically we have three staff members. On a day off from school, we have four or five. We can have up to 60 kids at one time. If we have that many, there would be six to seven teachers.

LK: How do you handle staffing for drop-ins?

Katie: We are always looking at days when school is closed, and looking back in history to see what we typically staff on certain days. We have an on-call teacher, and I’m also available, to help with extra backup.

LK: What activities do you do?

Katie: We have an activity every hour — games, science experiments, cooking, arts and crafts, — a little bit of everything.

LK: What are your hours and rates?

Katie: We are open: Monday - Thursday, 7:30 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Saturday, 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m.

We charge $10.00 by the hour, or $70.00 for a full day. We have discounted rates for siblings. You can find more details on our website: kidspark.com/lincoln.

Find KidsPark Lincoln at: 5633 S 16th St Ste. 100, Lincoln, NE 68512 (402) 413-8849

Learn more about Katie and her family on YouTube at @allelectricfamily!

It’s easier than finding a babysitter.

It’s engaging, a way to make new friends, and socialize.

We can be your backup. We are often open on SNOW DAYS.

We love doing all the messy activities. Let your kids have fun and we will clean it all up.

We are open until 11:00 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Drop the kids off while you go to dinner.

Why should parents bring their kiddos to KidsPark?

Flipping the Switch // WORD SCRAMBLE

LES ENERGIZERS

Did you know you can save energy in your home every day? Turning off or unplugging appliances and electronics that are not in use gives you the power to save energy! For example, while the sun is shining, windows can allow sunlight into your house without having to turn on a lamp or a light switch.

Unscramble the letters to reveal the names of common appliances and electronics that you should turn off or unplug when not in use. Use the pictures below for clues.

APPLIANCES

Brought to you by Lincoln Electric System & the

1. GLEICIN NAF

2. HTATOSMERT

3. GHTIL HTCWIS

4. ONSILEETVI

5. RSOTTEA

6. MGAE NOESCLO

DIRECTORY

Child Care & Education

Fingerprints Child Development Center

(6w - 10y) Featuring an educational curriculum for all ages in a loving, Christian environment! Open 6:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Enrolling now for School Age care with transportation to Meadow Lane, Kahoa and Robinson. Contact for current openings.

7800 Holdrege St. (402) 467-4503

CapitolCity.org

KidsPark

(1 1/2 - 11y) Trusted hourly childcare on days, evenings and weekends! No reservations required. Drop-in Mon. - Thu. 7:30 a.m. - 9:00 p.m., Fri. 7:30 a.m. - 11:00 p.m., and Sat. 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m.!

5633 S. 16th St. Ste. 100 (402) 413-8849

KidsPark.com/Lincoln

Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy of Southern Hills

(6w - 12y) Brand new state-of-the-art learning academy with exclusive curriculum developed for each classroom, guardian-accessible cameras, age-appropriate playgrounds, an onsite chef, and more! With our “Hug First, Then Teach” principle we take a whole-child approach, strengthening each child’s emotional, intellectual, social, and physical well-being. Currently enrolling all ages – including Summer Camp!

5588 Canterbury Ln. (402) 436-4005 kidsrkids.com/southern-hills

Lincoln Parks and Recreation Preschool Programs

Little Sprouts Preschool at Calvert Recreation Center and Nature Preschool at Pioneers Park Nature Center are open to children 3 to 5 years of age. Programs are nature based, with teachers planning curriculum around children’s curiosity and wonder of the world around them.

(402) 441-8669

lincoln.ne.gov (search: Preschool)

Prairie Hill Learning Center

(18m - 14y) Prairie Hill Learning Center offers quality, Montessori education in an outdoor, farm environment. Young Children’s Community is licensed by DHHS, has immediate openings and operates year-round. 7 miles south of Lincoln on Highway 77.

17705 S 12th St, Roca, NE 68430 (402) 436-6668 admin@prairiehill.com prairiehill.com

South Gate Preschool

(18m - Pre-K) South Gate Preschool is an established Lincoln Preschool of 30 years.  Our curriculum is based on learning through play with classes for children 18 months to pre-K.  Our classes are designed to build a strong foundation for your child’s academic success.

3500 Pioneers Blvd. (402) 489-7302 preschool@southgateumc.org southgateumc.org/preschool

Trinity Lutheran School

(18m - Grade 5) A fulfilling, Christ-based education center. Our Early Childhood Education Program accepts children ages 18 months through Pre-K with extended hours from 7 a.m. - 5:45 p.m. Also offering K-5 classes.

1200 North 56th St. (402) 466-1800 trinityoflincoln.org

Wee Wisdom Christian Preschool & Academy

(3y - 6y) Wee Wisdom has been providing a quality preschool program to the Lincoln-area families since 1996. We provide a well-rounded educational experience that includes a balance between informal and structured learning.

5201 Old Cheney Rd. (402) 420-7111 weewisdompreschool.org

Birthday Party Fun KidsPark

(1 1/2y - 11y) Private birthday parties available! Invitations, balloon favors, a gift for the birthday child, face painting, art, and games are all included. We do the cleanup when the party is over! Sundays 10:30am-12:30pm or 6:30pm8:30pm. Book your date online at kidspark.com/lincoln today!

5633 S. 16th St. Ste. 100 (402) 413-8849 KidsPark.com/Lincoln

Lincoln Children’s Zoo

Celebrate your child’s birthday at the Zoo and enjoy all-day admission for you and your guests. Create lasting memories with options for unlimited train rides and critter encounters. Party packages start at just $225. Visit LincolnZoo.org to pick your party, select your date, and reserve your room and time.

1222 S. 27th St. (402) 475-6741 LincolnZoo.org

Lost In Fun!

Your outdoor playland... indoors! Fun for all ages! Private party rooms, playsets, foam pit, inflatable jumpers, fun maze, laser maze, video games, jumping pillow, Ballocity, and snack area with yummy food and drinks! We do company parties, too! Book your next Fun-tastic party online at lostinfun.com!

8431 Cody Dr. (15th & Yankee Hill) (402) 466-8692 LostInFun.com

Pioneers Park Nature Center

Add nature to your child’s birthday! Parties includes a guided hike or themed activity, special gift for birthday child, party bags for each child, and time for your own activity and refreshments. Recommended for ages 5-12.

3201 S. Coddington Ave. (402) 441-7895

lincoln.ne.gov (search: Pioneers Park Nature Center)

Lessons & Activities

Aimee’s Premier Dance

Aimee’s Premier Dance in Hickman offers a variety of dance styles for ages 3+, including Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Lyrical, Contemporary, Hip Hop, Pointe, and Boys’ Classes. All classes use ageappropriate music, choreography, and costuming.

6760 Woodland Blvd. (Hickman) (402) 440-8770 apremierdance.com

Bright Lights Summer Learning Adventures

(Ages K - 8th Grade) Bright Lights Summer Learning Adventures. Offering 5 weeks of fun, hands-on, STEAM-infused summer learning camps for K-8th grade students. Half-day and full-day camps available on a wide variety of topics from arts and literature to robotics and cooking. More information including camp schedule, locations and registration details available at BrightLights.org.

5561 S. 48th Street, #220, Lincoln, NE 68516 (402) 420-1115 brightlights.org

Chase the Spirit of Dance

Established in 2017, Chase the Spirit of Dance provides Lincoln’s premier dance instruction. All of our dance instructors are personable and fully certified to teach dance at all levels. Whether your focus is technique, flexibility, or you’re just looking for a new way to work out, you can find it here. We offer Ballet, Jazz, Hip-Hop, Lyrical, Clogging, Tap, and so much more to students ages 3 - 93!

chasethespirit.dance info@chasethespirit.com (402) 904-4091

Encore Studio

(Ages 5 - 11) Piano lessons and piano/keyboard classes for all levels. Teaching beginners of all ages.

54th & L St. (402) 499-0400 encore-studio.com

Lessons & Activities (cont’d)

Lincoln Boys Choir

The Lincoln Boys Choir consists of organized choral groups which promote healthy, lifetime singing skills. Ages 8 - 18.

(402) 499-4446 kirsten@lincolnboyschoir.org lincolnboyschoir.org

Lincoln Music Teachers Association

LMTA welcomes all music teachers to meet for workshops and camaraderie, to plan activities for our students, and to serve the community. Our LMTA Music Outreach Program offers low-cost lessons, instruments and repairs, music scores and performance opportunities to children in need. Email MOP@LMTA.info.

For more information or a Teacher Directory, visit www.LMTA.info.

Lincoln Youth Track Club

The Lincoln Youth Track Club is a competitive track and field club for youth ages 7–18. Our goal is to help youth grow their love of track and field. We strive for maximum athlete development throughout the season.  lincolnyouthtrack@gmail.com lincolnyouthtrackclub.com

Marble Music

Discover the music in you with private music lessons at Marble Music Studios. Music lessons don’t have to be dull to achieve great results. At Marble Music Studios, our team of teachers bring fun to every lesson with engaging, age-appropriate curriculum and repertoire.  Specializing in strings, piano, guitar, ukulele and voice lessons. Now offering toddler music classes! Target ages: ages 1-3 for ECM Classes, ages 4-18 for private music lessons.

6201 S. 58th St. (402) 413-6355 marblemusicne.com

Picnic Hill Orchard

(All ages) We offer u-pick apples, cider and donuts starting in August through the end of October.  Located just outside of Lincoln near 105th and Yankee Hill Road.

10500 Yankee Hill Road (402) 417-0734 picnichillorchard.com

Theatre Arts for Kids

TAFK provides quality performance training for kids of all ages in the Lincoln community and surrounding areas. TAFK’s programming is inclusive and scholarship is always available. (402) 202-1087 info@tafk.org tafk.org

This hello will melt your heart.

Your moment comes with a supportive team.

Moms-to-be appreciate the specialized care and extra amenities offered at our full-service Maternity Center at St. Elizabeth and our free-standing Birth Center at 80th and O.

CHI Health Birth Center 8020 O St | 402-488-6370

CHI Health St. Elizabeth 555 S 70th St | 402-219-7070

CHIhealth.com/LincolnWomensHealth

We know that delivering a baby is your moment. Make it uniquely yours with our team of Ob-Gyn, Midwife and Maternal Fetal Medicine providers.

Women’s Health 7001 A Street, Ste 200 | 402-484-4081

Women’s Health Midwifery 8020 O St | 402-488-6370

Maternal Fetal Medicine 555 S 70th St | 402-398-6103

Join us at Union Plaza every Final Friday of the summer months from 6:00 - 9:00 PM, for the beats and bites you’ve come to expect from Hub & Soul. For our fifth year, we’re mixing up the schedule to spread out the jams for the entire summer and into the fall. See you there!

FRIDAY, JUNE 30

FRIDAY, JULY 28

FRIDAY, AUGUST 25

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 29