your guide to tennis and pickleball courts in lincoln page 20
see what’s happening at Theatre Arts for Kids page 6
COVER SPONSOR
Every child deserves hope. This philosophy was clear to our founders 75 years ago, and it’s as true today as ever. We continue to be outspoken about children’s mental health services, inspiring families to move forward and heal.
We help children and families to find courage and strength in the face of trauma with our services and programs.
• Crisis & Residential Services
• Extended Day Treatment
• Outpatient Services
• School-based Programs
Learn more at hopespoke.org
HopeSpoke’s mission is to inspire healthy futures for children and their families through comprehensive behavioral and mental health services. Your support is needed to ensure we can continue to provide services so all children and families in Lincoln and throughout Nebraska can be healthy and hopeful.
2444 O Street
Lincoln, NE (402) 475-7666
Dear Lincoln Kids Readers,
This summer, I’m excited to embrace every moment with my family. From enjoying their BMX races, to going on bike rides along our favorite trails, to lazy weekends spent soaking up the sun by the pool, there’s a city full of adventure awaiting us.
Taking the time to explore the adventures of our city is exactly what you’ll discover in our Summer edition. Whether it’s enjoying live music at a Lincoln summer music series (page 12), finding a partner to play tennis or pickleball with (page 20), or checking off a summer bucket list (page 22), Lincoln has something for everyone.
Summer is not just a season; it’s a mindset—a time to slow down, enjoy each moment, and take in the simple pleasures of life. It’s about embracing spontaneity, finding joy in the laughter of our children, and creating memories that will last a lifetime.
I’m already looking forward to it!
Sign
Special
Mackenzie Slivka Editor-in-Chief
Theatre Arts for Kids (TAFK) is a performing arts program specially geared toward young, aspiring performers interested in learning about, participating in, and producing musical theatre. Leah Arington, founder and artistic director, started it over twenty years ago. Throughout the years, TAFK has had chapters in Nebraska, New York, Florida, and California, just to name a few, but it’s really found a home in Lincoln, where it has thrived for the past eleven years.
What is Theatre Arts for Kids?
TAFK provides the total theatre experience –auditioning, rehearsing, polishing, performing, warm-ups, and exercises – designed to enhance concentration and focus. “We really pride ourselves on providing a high-quality performing arts education,” Leah said. Programs are available to kids ages four and older of all experience levels. TAFK instruction focuses on vocal technique, musicianship, dance, actor training, and production professionalism.
“We embrace that we each have our own challenges and do everything we can to make all our students feel comfortable,” Leah said. TAFK’s Wish Fish program allows students with disabilities to partner with a veteran TAFK student to guide them and encourage their success.
For ten years, TAFK was located in a local church’s sanctuary. They have since performed at other local venues including Screamers Family Restaurant, the Nebraska Communities Playhouse, and community park buildings. Moving around to different venues has helped TAFK establish relationships within the Lincoln community.
The team is passionate about giving back to the community, so TAFK has philanthropy projects attached to each show. They have gathered donations for free pantries; partnered with Lincoln City Libraries; and volunteered at Center for People, Project 4:7, Laundromat Libraries, and completed many other projects in collaboration with Lincoln Center Kiwanis.
A priority of Leah’s is making sure the students attending TAFK are creating lasting, meaningful relationships with one another. “We’ve built a team base – we want the kids to have a great sense of family here,” Leah expressed. An important part of their mission is to make a performing arts education accessible to all students and families. TAFK offers scholarships to students who need financial assistance. They encourage children with challenges of any kind to join their programs.
If your child is interested in theatre and performing arts, TAFK is the perfect place to start! For more information on their upcoming camps and programs, visit TAFK.org.
Fairy Tale Forest
June 3-7
• Friend Historical Society • Ages 7-15
Mon-Fri • 9:30 AM-3:30 PM • Fee $50
Performance: Friday, June 7 at 2:30 PM
Madagascar: A Musical Adventure Jr.
June 10-22
• NCP Studio Theatre • Ages 7-15
Mon-Fri • 9:30 AM-3:30 PM • Fee $475
Performances: Friday, June 21 & Saturday, June 22
Best Friends: A Very STUFFIE Story
June 8-13
• Screamers Restaurant • Ages 6-10
Mon-Fri • 9:00 AM-3:00 PM • Fee $350
Performances: Friday, July 12 & Saturday, July 13
Alice in Wonderland Jr.
July 15-27 • Screamers Restaurant • Ages 7-15
Mon-Fri • 9:00 AM-3:30 PM • Fee $475
Performances: Friday, July 26 & Saturday, July 27
June 3-7 • Bethany Park Community Building Barnyard Boogie Rising Stars Theatre!
Ages 3-6 • 9:30 AM-12:00 PM • Fee $175
Show Choir Spectacular! A Triple Threat Experience!
Ages 10-15 • 12:30 PM-3:30 PM • Fee $175
June 10-14 • Bethany Park Community Building
Jungle Jives Rising Stars Theatre!
Ages 3-6 • 9:30 AM-12:00 PM • Fee $175
Celebrate Good Times Global Celebrations!
Ages 6-10 • 12:30 PM-3:30 PM • Fee $175
June 17-21 • Bethany Park Community Building Alphabet Soup Rising Stars Theatre!
Ages 3-6 • 9:30 AM-12:00 PM • Fee $175
The TAFK team is looking for a home to call their own with:
• 10-12 foot ceilings
• Space for an audience of 85-100
• Potential for ADA accessibility
If you know of a space that fits TAFK’s needs, contact Leah at info@TAFK.org.
Create Your Own Show Imagination Inspiration!
Ages 10-15 • 12:30 PM-3:30 PM • Fee $175
June 24-28 • Eastridge Elementary
Superhero Stories
A Creative Musical Theatre Workshop
Ages 7-15 • 9:30 AM-3:30 PM • Fee $300
These outstanding dads and granddad not only motivate their kiddos to aim high, but they are also actively working toward their own goals.
Meet the Dads
Tim is a Property Book Officer for the Army National Guard and the President of Star City BMX, a nonprofit dedicated to giving riders of all ages the chance to participate in BMX. He’s a proud father who loves to cheer on his two active teens, Jayden and Lydia.
Chris has four grandkids, and there’s no doubt they keep him young at heart. He works at the Nebraska Department of Revenue as an IT Infrastructure Support Analyst, where the daily challenges are almost as fascinating (to him) as playing with his grandkids.
Seth loves experiencing the world through his daughter’s eyes. Whether it’s Charley’s singing or observations of the world, she brings a sense of wonder he appreciates. He’s the owner and operator of Midwest Craft House, offering unique decor and quality hardware supplies.
Tell us about your kids.
Jayden Joel is 16 and Lydia Lynn is 13. What do you love about being a dad?
I love watching the kids grow and reliving my childhood through my kids.
What do you like about your career?
I love serving our nation. I also love fielding new equipment to soldiers, knowing they will be better prepared to do their job.
What is the best advice someone has given you about being a dad?
Get involved in what they love, and give compliments before criticism. Treat others the same way I would like to be treated is something I was taught at a young age from my parents.
What is something that you enjoy watching?
I’ve been watching every Husker football video they post. I’m so excited for the season!
What are your kids up to?
Both kids stay busy with family, friends, school, sports, and work. We try to eat together as a family and I always value that time (and my wife’s great cooking). Their journey and growth is a good lesson for me to do better and be better for them.
A BMXer lying on his deathbed asked his best friend to do him a favor when he’s gone. “Anything,” replied his friend. “Just don’t let my wife sell our bikes for what I told her I paid for them,” he begged.
Tell us about your grandkids.
Adrian is 9, Amaya is 5, Maverick is 5, and Sommer is 9.
What do you love about being a grandpa?
Getting to play like a kid again and watching these little people try new things.
What do you like about your career?
There is always something new to learn. The world of IT is always changing and I get to be challenged daily by solving tech problems.
What is the best advice someone has given you about being a grandpa?
Just be there for the kids and grandkids. Be positive and encouraging in the things they do.
What is something that you enjoy watching?
I love watching basketball, especially March Madness.
What are cute things that your grandkids are saying or doing?
I’m gramps, everything they do is cute. When someone else is showing pictures of their kids or grandkids and say, “Aren’t they the cutest thing you’ve ever seen?” I say to myself, “Nope, mine are.”
What’s your best dad joke?
How do NCAA basketball players stay cool during a game?
They stand near the fans.
Tell us about your daughter.
Charlotte (Charley) is 7.
What do you love about being a dad?
I enjoy being a dad because I get to be a kid again myself. I love being able to play outside, go to events around town, and experience new and exciting things with my daughter. It’s fun to see Charley experience things for the first time. Also, watching her grow and become more independent is a fun part of being a dad too.
Tell us about your occupation.
I own and operate Midwest Craft House. We design and sell new, made to look old, hardware and decor. This consists of items like drawer pulls, knobs, shelf brackets, decorative hinges, door knockers, or other home decor that you would see in a farmhouse setting.
What is the best advice someone has given you about being a dad?
I remember a colleague of mine telling me that fatherhood will change everything and to just embrace it. At the time, it felt a little overwhelming, but they were definitely right. Everything does change and in a positive way.
What is your daughter up to?
Charley has really started to ask some intelligent questions this past year. When filling my truck up at the gas station, she recently asked me if my truck took diesel or unleaded gas. I thought that was pretty funny because we have never talked about that before and I didn’t even think she knew there was a difference. It has also been fun to listen to her sing songs from what she hears on the radio or in music class at school. When she wakes up in the morning, she will come out of her room singing a song with a big smile on her face.
Hey kids! We recommend an exam anytime after age 7, no referral needed!
Parents, we love treating adults too! Don’t be shy and schedule a free consult!
Call Lincoln Orthodontics to set up a free consult with Dr. Willett at (402) 498-8841 lincoln-orthodontics.com • 6825 S 27th St, #202
Save some time –scan and request an appointment online!
Brought to you by Lincoln Electric System & the 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.
MUSIC SERIES HAPPENING IN LINCOLN THIS SUMMER
If you love gathering with family and friends to enjoy amazing music, then mark your calendar and make plans to attend some of Lincoln’s summer concert series! Be sure to visit websites listed as schedules are subject to change.
June 4, 11, 18, 25
jazzinjune.com
Free concerts are held on Tuesdays in June at the Sheldon Sculpture Garden. Food trucks from 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. with live Jazz starting at 7:00 p.m.
Lincoln Community Foundation Garden Summer Performance Series
May 22, 29
June 5, 12, 19, 26
July 3, 10, 17, 24, 31
August 7, 14, 21, 28
September 4, 11, 18
These free concerts are on Wednesdays from Noon - 1:00 p.m. in the Barbara Bartle Garden, 1415 N Street.
May 30
Concert at Noon during Give to Lincoln Day Festival at Tower Square
June 5, 12, 19, 26
July 3, 10, 17, 24, 31
August 7
liveattelegraph.com
Free concerts on the patio on Wednesdays at Telegraph Mill from 6:00-9:00 p.m. 330 S. 21st Street.
Hub & Soul
June 28
July 26
August 30
September 27
hubandsoul.com
The free concerts are held on Fridays from 6:00 - 9:00 p.m. at Union Plaza.
KZUM Stransky Park Concert Series
May 30
June 6, 13, 20, 27
July 11, 18, 25 kzum.org
Free concerts on Thursdays from 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. at Stransky Park, 17th and Harrison Avenue.
June 14, 21, 28
July 5, 12, 19
Free concerts on Fridays from 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. at SouthPointe Pavilions.
reddevelopment.com/southpointe-pavilions
Lincoln Municipal Band at the Shildneck Bandshell
July 7, 14, 21, 28
August 4, 11, 18, 25
Free concerts on Sundays at 7:00 p.m. at Antelope Park.
Classes for Age 3-7 Years Old
June/July Summer Classes
Aug/Sept/Oct Fall Classes - JOIN A TEAM -
U11-U19 Tryouts May 28 -June 7
U7-U10 Open registration deadline July 1
2024/25 TEAMS Birth Year Groups
Yellows : 2019, 2018, 2017
Groguets : 2016 & 2015
Tryout Teams : 2014 2006
VILLARREAL NEBRASKA ACADEMY 345 Speedway Circle, Suite 1 Call or email to join a team! admin@villarrealnebraska.com info@villarrealnebraska.com 402 853 7100
Chloe Diegel was inspired to pursue her passion for community-supported agriculture after reading a book about local food and small-scale farms during her last year of undergraduate program. With a dream of making it easy to eat fresh, locally grown food, she and her husband established Robinette Farms 14 years ago.
Chloe and her husband, Alex McKiernan, took the leap together, initially renting land to start their first-generation farm. Today, Robinette Farms has its own property in Martell, Nebraska, with several employees. It collaborates with over 30 local producers to help Nebraska communities thrive on nutritious, wholesome food.
Robinette Farms is home to three generations. Chloe’s parents live and work on the farm, as do her and Alex’s three daughters. “Everyone’s involved and contributing in some way, and we all get to share this experience, which is really cool,” Chloe expressed. Her father assists with outdoor upkeep; her mother is the farm’s bookkeeper; and their daughters do many different jobs around the property.
“Our kids are teenagers now and they became official employees last year. We love that they can make their own money and participate in the family business,” Chloe said. “It’s teaching them farming skills, but also valuable life and financial skills.”
All three of their girls have learned to weed in the summer, check cattle, complete fencing and water projects, turn hydrants on and off, open and close high tunnels, manage greenhouse structures, and more.
Chloe explained that she and Alex have tried to provide them the skills to get things done, but also teach them skills relating to saving money and working with other employees. By earning money for their work, the girls have learned to be responsible with finances, including things like paying for their own cell phones.
Robinette Farms believes that where your food comes from does make a difference and recognizes how challenging it can be to get healthy food on the table each day. Chloe and Alex’s goal is to make eating locally grown and raised foods as easy as possible.
Robinette Farms’ Local Food Subscription is a convenient solution. The program offers local grocery deliveries from Nebraska farms, ranches, and local businesses, tailored to your preferences, with the power to customize the items in each box and your delivery schedule. These boxes can be delivered directly to your home.
Robinette Farms’ selection has grown to more than 250 different products including meats, vegetables, fruits, milk, cheese, eggs, bread, coffee, grains, jarred goods, spices, and more. They work with more than 30 local vendors and offer microgreens, baby greens, and grass-finished beef from their own farm.
“People don’t have to eat foods shipped here from around the world,” said Chloe. “Great, fresh foods are produced locally and regionally, and shopping from small businesses allows you to support the local economy.”
Having prior experience in farming helped Chloe envision what she wanted for her own farm after college and helped her understand how to start one of her own.
After 14 years, Chloe and Alex are finally starting to feel comfortable owning and running the business. They have had to pivot over the years as life has thrown new things at them: adding kids to the mix, family health concerns, and a global pandemic. These challenges have forced Robinette Farms to evolve and grow into the position they are in now, and their network has supported them along the way.
“It’s super important to build a network of people who are willing to help because there’s just so much to learn. Especially if you didn’t come from a small family business. There are so many little things to think about and figure out – it’s a lot of decisions,” Chloe said.
As Robinette Farms has found its network and jumped to solve problems, they’ve discovered a path forward, building the small business in ways that reflect their vision for the farm 14 years ago.
To learn more about Robinette Farms and their products, visit robinettefarms.com or follow them on social media.
robinettefarms
Robinette Farms
Visit the Haymarket, Fallbrook, and Sunday Farmer’s Markets.
Go to the Sunken Gardens and count the different types of flowers.
Make homemade ice cube tray popsicles.
Have a picnic.
Participate in Lincoln City Libraries’ Summer Reading Challenge.
Run through the sprinkler in the yard.
Go on a hike at Wilderness Park.
Plan a neighborhood game night.
Read a book outside.
Attend a Lincoln Summer Music Series; see page 12
Find a place to volunteer – volunteerlnk.org.
Go on a scavenger hunt in your neighborhood.
Ride your bike on Lincoln’s trails.
Draw with sidewalk chalk.
Grab a swimsuit and splash at Trago Park.
Try a new homemade recipe.
Visit the Sheldon Museum of Art.
Have a campfire and make s’mores.
Go to the Hyde Memorial Observatory.
See the wildlife at Pioneers Park.
Play with bubbles.
Go on a nature walk and collect something for each color of the rainbow.
Camp in your backyard for a night.
Have a lemonade stand.
Make an outdoor obstacle course.
The Lincoln Community Playhouse’s Penguin Project® provides a stage for Lincoln Kids of all abilities. It is a place where students volunteer as mentors and support artists, so they can take center stage – showcasing their talents, perseverance, and spirit. Two remarkable individuals, whose lives have been touched by the Penguin Project, take center PAGE to tell their story to Lincoln Kids Magazine.
Meet Caleb and Zella, a long-time Penguin Project artist and first-time mentor, respectively. Caleb Nelson, age 21, has graced the stage with his infectious energy and passion for performance for nearly a decade.
At just 11-years-old and inspired by her love for acting and a desire to spread joy to those facing extra challenges, Zella Belk represents the future of the Penguin Project.
Caleb, can you tell us about your time with the Penguin Project and why you enjoy it?
Sure! I’ve been involved with the Penguin Project since it started almost 10 years ago! I’ve performed in Annie, Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, High School Musical, Music Man, Wizard of Oz, Willy Wonka, Elf, Newsies, and now back to Annie, coming this summer! I love that I get to sing, dance, and get to know my mentors. The friendships and the support from mentors make the experience special and fun.
Zella, as a first-time mentor, what inspired you to join and what is your theater background?
I’ve always loved acting and care deeply about inclusivity. When my dad told me about the Penguin Project, I immediately wanted to join. I’ve performed in Peter Pan, Princess Who, Back to the 80s, The XYZ Files, Mean Girls Jr., Spamalot, and Just a Bad Thriller with Youth Actors Academy of Lincoln!
Caleb, can you share about how the Penguin Project has helped you overcome any difficulties?
I have autism and sometimes overreact or have trouble managing my emotions and relationships. My heart pounds when people tell me to do more than one thing at a time, and my brain gets confused. The Penguin Project has helped me stop worrying so much and take my time. Pretending the audience is wearing underwear might sound funny, but it helps me put things into perspective and focus on enjoying the moment.
Caleb, can you share a memorable performance or role you’ve had at the Penguin Project?
Oh, there have been quite a few! But if I had to pick one, I’d say playing the Cowardly Lion in The Wizard of Oz. Mastering the fainting scene was a challenge, but with practice, I nailed it!
Zella, what has been your favorite memory of mentoring at the Penguin Project so far?
It’s been amazing! My mentee is a ball of perseverance, and it’s inspiring to see her dedication. I try to support her in any way I can, whether it’s helping with staging or simply being there for her. Every night, at the end of rehearsal, we all come together and perform “Don’t Stop Believin’.” It’s a lot of fun, and I really enjoy dancing with my artist.
Zella, how do you think the Penguin Project promotes inclusivity and empathy, and what advice do you have for others who may want to become a mentor?
This program has made me realize if someone is different from you, they can be whatever they want to be, even a lead in a musical. My advice is that some days your artist might not want to participate in activities. Don’t force them through anything. They will come around and participate. One instance of this is when my mentee was not feeling it, and she sat out for the rehearsal. I decided to write down all the staging and things we did that day. The next rehearsal I helped her with the staging, sharing my notes.
Caleb, what’s next for you?
After my last performance next year, I hope to continue here as a volunteer. I am also in Independence Academy, a job skills training for people with disabilities. I go to job sites each semester to get experience and hope to someday volunteer at a place with a piano.
Zella, what’s next for you?
I am just getting started and hoping to inspire others to join. I would also love to perform in The Wizard of Oz someday.
Caleb and Zella show that through creativity, empathy, and inclusivity, this remarkable initiative is breaking down barriers and redefining perceptions about individuals of all abilities.
Lincoln Community Playhouse’s Penguin Project is open to students ages 10 to 22-years-old.
For more information:
Penmanship is the art of writing by hand. Being able to express yourself quickly and clearly is important, so you can communicate your thoughts and feelings to the world! Try practicing some of the cursive words below and see how much fun it is to add a little loopiness to your handwriting.
PENMANSHIP PRACTICE!
Get a grasp of how cursive letters work together by tracing each of the words below, then copy them in the blank space! You can do it!
If you find yourself enjoying practicing penmanship, there are so many opportunities to learn more. You might even enjoy one of the many books on calligraphy at your local library. Calligraphy means beautiful writing in Greek, and it elevates writing to an art form. The most important thing to remember is that you can practice penmanship every time you write something down!
Fill out this puzzle using the clues below!
DOWN:
Small insect that lights up at night.
A sculpture made of sand at the beach, often with moats and towers.
Delicious treat made with marshmallows, chocolate, and graham crackers over a campfire.
A popular activity in the summer where you splash and play in the water.
A frozen treat that comes in various flavors, usually in a cone or dish.
ACROSS:
A sandy or pebbly shore by the sea or lake.
Casual, open-toed sandals that are easy to slip on and off.
The first month of summer.
A frozen, flavored ice treat on a stick.
Cool shades that protect your eyes from the sun’s glare.
Something you wear on your head to block the sun.
Poetry is a special kind of literature that allows you to express your feelings and ideas through different styles and rhythms. There are many ways to create poetry, and with just a few tips and tricks, YOU can do it too!
Rhyming
The first type of poetry you will learn to write is a rhyming poem. You can write your rhyming poems in a few different ways:
1. Couplets: two-line poems where the last word rhymes.
The summer sun’s rays, shine brighter everyday!
2. Triplets: the same as couplets, but with three lines.
You can rhyme the last word in every line for a pattern called AAA, or you can rhyme only the first and third lines for the pattern ABA.
A- Summer’s here, and school is done.
A- I can’t wait to be in the sun,
A- To go to the pool and have some fun!
A- I like the summer night sky.
B- You can’t tell the difference between
A- A star and a firefly.
You can also create rhyming poems in lines of four once you feel more comfortable with couplets and triplets. These are called quatrain poems!
Haiku
A haiku is an unrhymed three-lined poem that follows a pattern. A haiku can be about anything you want as long as you follow these three simple rules.
Line One: 5 syllables
Line Two: 7 syllables
Line Three: 5 syllables
Another way you can think about this is to visualize the syllables:
For example, say you want to write your haiku about summer. Think of some words and ideas that relate to summer, and then write them out until you have the correct amount of syllables.
The days are longer.
Life feels a little lighter.
How I love summer!
Although there are many different types of poems, these are two simple poem types that will help kick-start your poetry writing journey. Just remember, the more you write, the better you will become. Writing poetry takes time to perfect, but there’s no better time to start than now. Keep practicing and you’ll be a poet before you know it!
Grace Nieman became a Bright Lights Camp Assistant in 2022 as a way to do something fun with a friend, remain productive during the summer, and earn many volunteer hours in a short timespan.
“Volunteering has shown me how impactful giving our time can be,” wrote Grace, who grew up volunteering with her family. “Sometimes it is more important to show up and be willing to help,” she added.
Volunteering has taught Grace a lot of responsibility as she helps keep track of campers, set up the classroom, and keep everyone safe.
Logan Lambrecht made his volunteer debut last summer as a CA for two Bright Lights halfday camps — Tremendous Time Travels and Amazing Race. As a former Bright Lights camper, he had always wanted to be an assistant. Logan found it a really fun way to spend his summer.
“You get to learn something new with everything you do in the different camps, right along with the kids,” he explained. One of his favorite things was getting to know all of the kids and their big personalities. “It’s a new adventure every day,” he said.
Volunteering at these summer camps prompted Logan to consider combining his interests in music and working with kids in the future.
Kim Tran began volunteering with Bright Lights in 2022 through UNL’s TRIO-Upward Bound program. She enjoyed helping with the Little Picassos camp so much that she applied to be a Camp Assistant in 2023 and again this year.
Assisting with the International Program last summer, Kim, who had never met international students, made lasting connections. Through Instagram, she has remained in touch with some of the Japanese students from the Cooking Around The World Class. “It is just so heartwarming to see what they post on their story,” she said.
Kim emphasized that “Not only will Camp Assistant volunteers earn hours that look good on a resume, but you’re going to be making so many connections.”
Cutout
FREE high-quality early childhood education services for families from pregnancy to age 5. Home-based and center-based program options are available. Head Start and Early Head Start are year-round, full-day programs. Families with low income or receiving SNAP, SSI, or ADC are eligible.
1843 K St. / 2301 O St. / 2615 O St., Suite 4 (402) 875-9328 communityactionatwork.org
(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 Kahoa and Robinson. Contact for current openings. We are proud to be a Step 5 Quality Rated Center with Nebraska Step Up To Quality.
7800 Holdrege St. (402) 467-4503 | CapitolCity.org
Providing an enriching environment for children to learn and grow in north east Lincoln. Open until 6 p.m. and accepts private pay, Title XX, and Lincoln Littles Scholarships available for those that qualify.
4005 N. 70th St. (402) 436-4005 kellyskidsldc.com
(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
(6w - 12y) Brand new state-of-the-art learning academy with exclusive curriculum developed for each classroom, guardian-accessible cameras, ageappropriate 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) 817-4245 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)
(18m - 14y) Prairie Hill is a Montessori school that serves children ages 18 months through 8th grade. We are a nature-based school immersed in Montessori philosophy of education.
17705 S. 12th St., Roca, NE 68430 (402) 436-6668 admin@prairiehill.com | prairiehill.com
(All ages) Experienced, award-winning face painter. Creating smiles at all kinds of events! (402) 730-7197 | butterflykissesfacepainting.com
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
Add nature to your child’s birthday! Parties include 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)
Offering 5 weeks of fun, hands-on, STEAM-infused summer learning camps for K-8th grade students. Halfday and full-day camps available on a wide variety of topics from arts and literature to robotics and cooking. Registration for Summer 2024 camps is now open. More information on camp schedule, camp locations and our Camp Assistant program is also available at BrightLights.org.
5561 S. 48th St., Suite 220 (402) 420-1115 | brightlights.org
Selling new books of all kinds and original, local art. Hosting author events and book signings. #youmeetthecoolestpeopleinbookstores
130 S. 13th St, in the Old Telephone Building francieandfinch.com | (402) 781-0459
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.
For more information or a Teacher Directory, visit www.LMTA.info. | Contact us at MOP@LMTA.info
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. We specialize in strings, piano, guitar, ukulele and voice lessons. Now offering toddler music classes!
6201 S. 58th St. (402) 413-6355 | marblemusicne.com
(All ages) Pediatric Dentistry, P.C. provides oral health services for toddlers, children, adolescents, and persons with special healthcare needs in a fun, comfortable, and age-appropriate setting.
3901 Pine Lake Rd,, Suite 250 (402) 423-3322 pediatricdentistrypc.net
(18m - 18y) Pioneer Gymnastics Academy offers gymnastics instruction, competition teams, birthday parties and special events.
3800 Old Cheney Rd. Suite A1 (402) 483-1304 info@pioneergym.com | pioneergym.com
We have two weeks of Summer Camp available. June 17 through June 21 and July 29 through August 2.
SMA Summer Camp includes martial arts training every day. Each week campers will also have a pool day, a library day, plenty of time at the park and a cool field trip on Friday. Available for rising 1st graders through rising 6th graders.
4747 Old Cheney Rd, Suite B Lincoln, NE 68516 swansonsmartialarts.com/program/ summer-camp/
We offer private music lessons and group classes in music, art, yoga, preschool, special needs, reading tutoring and classes for scout badges. All of our classes and lessons qualify for Our Military Kids! grants. Ages 7 - 12
2920 E Court Street, Beatrice, NE 402-806-4138 musicworksne.com
Toddlers, infants, expecting parents, are eligible for Head Start, including families receiving SNAP benefits!
Say your first hello to our uniquely nurturing Maternity Center or free-standing Birth Center.
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
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 | 402-829-8880