Issuu

Central Texas

April 2022

FREE!

See article pg. 7

Summer Camps & Activities Pgs. 10 - 15

GROWING SMILES

Tjel Olson, D.M.D.

General Dentistry Limited to Children

Vernesha Lockhart, D.D.S.

Board-Certiied Pediatric Dentist

Alex Piedra, D.D.S.

Board-Eligible Pediatric Dentist

Aaron Blackwelder, D.D.S., M.S. Board-Certiied Pediatric Dentist 254-772-8330 1121 Lake Air Dr., Waco, TX www.WacoKidsDental.com

OF WACO

S UMMER C AMPS Register Today! Camp Read - Grades PK - 3 Session 1: June 7 - 30 | Tues./Thurs. 9 - 11 a.m. & 1 - 3 p.m. Session 2: July 12 - Aug. 4 | Tues./Thurs. 9 - 11 a.m. or 1 - 3 p.m. An intensive four week summer reading camp for children grades PK-3rd that is conducted by master's level speech language pathologists and reading specialists. Camp Read targets reading ﬂuency, phonological awareness, decoding, academic vocabulary and reading comprehension which are essential components for reading success. A pre-test is required and homework practice is essential.

Free Screenings!

Specializing in the treatment of: Autism Articulation Oral Expression Auditory Comprehension Reading Deficits Language Deficits Stuttering Developmental Delays

Continue Progress Achieved During the School Year During the summer months, children may regress academically. Maintain their skills and academic progress achieved throughout the school year. We oﬀer tutoring services throughout the summer. Tutoring is conducted by certiﬁed teachers, which reinforce skills your child has acquired during the school year. Building upon this foundation over the summer months positions your child for greater success when he/she returns to school in the fall. Areas Targeted Include: Math * Reading * Study Skills * Writing * Spelling * Comprehension

Phone: 254-235-1850 Fax: 254-235-4879 7545 Bosque Blvd., Waco, TX 76712 info@therapygroupofwaco.com | www.therapygroupofwaco.com

April Index by Category

Art Programs/Studios

Outdoor Play Systems

Baby Furniture

Party Planning & Supplies

Practically Pikasso..............................................12 Once Upon a Child..............................................17 Smarty Pants Resale Boutique...........................5

Cakes

Kakes by Kat.......................................................20

Children’s Clothing

Once Upon a Child..............................................17 Smarty Pants Resale Boutique...........................5

Consignment & Resale Shops

Once Upon a Child..............................................17 Smarty Pants Resale Boutique...........................5

Dance Studios

All That Jazz Academy of Dance.........................20 Expressions Dance Studio...................................5 Joy’s School of Dance.........................................12

Dental Care/Orthodontics

Dr. Stephen Brandt Pediatric Dentistry.............21 Route 32 Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics...............22 Smile at the World...............................................24 Temple Kids Dental.............................................23 Waco Kids Dental.................................................2

Education/Child Care

Central Texas 4C, Inc..........................................20 Bosque Valley Children’s Services......................8 First Baptist Waco Preschool.............................18 New Beginnings Learning Academy...................17 The Arc McLennan County..................................10

Events

Fish Kid at Heart Casting Competition Event Series.....................................................9 Sertoma Kite Festival...........................................8 Trinity at Badger Ranch Easter Egg Hunt..........21

Gymnastics & Cheerleading

Flips Gymnastics.................................................15 Powerhouse Cheer & Fitness.............................19 Texas Dynasty Cheer & Gymnastics...................12

Horseback Riding / Lessons

Melanie’s Pony Parties.......................................16

Libraries

Hewitt Public Library....................................... 11, 18

Martial Arts

Family Martial Arts..............................................13

Museums

Historic Waco Foundation...................................16

China Spring Country Store................................18

Baylor University McLane Stadium....................15 Dart’Em Up..........................................................19 Enchanted Kingdom Parties & Events...............21 Expressions Dance Studio...................................5 Family Martial Arts..............................................13 Flips Gymnastics.................................................15 Joy’s School of Dance.........................................12 Little Land Play Gym...........................................15 Melanie’s Pony Parties.......................................16 Only Believe Parties & Play Center.....................21 Powerhouse Cheer & Fitness.............................19 Practically Pikasso..............................................12 Skate Waco..........................................................17 Sweet Dreams Slumber Parties.........................17 Tooty Tot Children’s Entertainment....................16 YMCA of Central Texas........................................20

Photographers

Sharla Kay Photography.....................................16

Services

A&D Construction & Restoration........................21 Because of You 3D/4D Ultrasound...................22 Bell County Public Health District......................20 Forever Families...................................................6 Neat as a Pin.......................................................20 The Arc McLennan County..................................10

Sports / Fitness

610 Fit Training Studio.......................................21 YMCA of Central Texas........................................20

Summer Camps & Activities

Family Martial Arts..............................................13 Flips Gymnastics.................................................15 Hewitt Public Library Summer Programs...........11 Joy’s School of Dance.........................................12 Little Land Play Gym...........................................15 McLane Stadium Summer Camp.......................15 Practically Pikasso Kids Kamp...........................12 Texas Dynasty Cheer & Gymnastics...................12 The Arc McLennan County..................................10 Vanguard College Preparatory School...............12

Therapy Services

Bosque Valley Children’s Services......................8 Little Land Play Gym...........................................15 Rodgers Speech, Hearing & Educational Services..................................19 Therapy Group of Waco.......................................3

Toys & Books

Once Upon a Child..............................................17 Smarty Pants Resale Boutique...........................5

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Ballet Pointe Tap Jazz Contemporary Hip-Hop

for Fa mi

Acrobatics Pom Musical Theatre

Publisher: Michele Berger Creative Director: Jerri Denson Office Manager: Melissa Talbert Contributing Writer: Jessa McClure

254-776-1672 16200 Badger Ranch Blvd., Woodway www.expressionsdance.studio Owner/ Instructor Jenni Holley, B.A. Dance & Theatre Certified Dance Masters of America

Advertising Information: Michele Berger (254)723-3696 Next Deadline April 5th For May & June Issues Contact us Phone: (254)723-3696 office@bergerpublishing.com

Resale Boutique On the Cover:

Be a

Prractically Pikasso

Shop with us! We pay CA$H or CREDIT on your gently used baby equipment • bouncers • pack & plays cribs • high chairs • and so much more! We accept baby clothes up to a child’s size 20 and maternity clothes!

AS K A B O UT O UR LOYALTY PROGRAM!

Find Our Dog Max Hidden Inside!

4316 W. Waco Drive next to la bella salon and jason’s deli Connect with us!

www.smartypantswaco.com

Hooray For Family™ 2022. All copy, photographs and information contained herein is protected by copyright and is not to be reproduced. Publisher reserves the right to decline any advertisements.

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FOREVER

FA M I L I E S

Community partners helping local children find a brighter future

By Lindsay Liepman

Rose is a creative and caring teenager who wants to make a real change in the world. One of her goals is to someday become a police officer. But for now, the 13-year-old enjoys fashion, makeup, socializing with her peers, and playing soccer. A family who enjoys being active together would be the perfect fit for this positive girl. She would also love a family with multiple children, so she could have siblings. Parents who are willing to set and maintain boundaries will help Rose build a strong foundation for her future. It will also be important for her forever family to give her time to adjust to a new home. If you’re interested in adopting Rose, or would like more information, go to www.heartgallerytexas.com.

Photography by Dunlop Portrait

MODERN MEDIA COMMUNITY HIGHLIGHT

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Featured Cover Spotlight

By Jessa McClure

Ceramics, canvases, and glass fusion galore. The paint-yourown-pottery studio, Practically Pikasso, is gearing up for summer “Kamps” that will help your child tap into their artistic potential and provide a reprieve from the summer heat. “We’re anticipating having great experiences to offer the children this year,” said store owner, Marie McClellan. Last year the camps featured activities such as decorating a glass nightlight and painting ceramic creations. McClellan said she likes to keep the three-day camps non-specific so that children can explore the projects that interest them. “Each camp will still have basic content that deals with ceramics, but with different approaches,” McClellan said. “We may even be looking at different painting techniques on canvas as well.” Three-day camps are $175 each, with discounts for siblings. The fee includes all the materials your child will need along with a camp T-shirt and a daily snack. Along with these longer camp sessions, Practically Pikasso will also be offering mini one-day camps that are only $75 and include a T-shirt and snack as well. Topics for these camps include ceramics, glass fusion, acrylic painting, Tie-Dye and more. Each camp session begins at 9:30 a.m. and ends at 12 p.m. and is open to kids from ages 7 to 16. “When children participate in the camps or just come for a visit, it heightens their creativity,” she said. “It’s a joyful experience. They are always surprised at what they can do.” McClellan said when kids walk into the studio, they are the artist. It is Practically Pikasso’s job to give them the supplies to explore their talents. “Families are looking for things to do that give their children normal childhood experiences because they have been through a lot in the last couple of years,” McClellan said. “Our studio gives them the chance to maximize those childhood experiences and enjoy life.” Camps begin the second week in June and spaces are limited, so make sure to secure your spot early. For more information about Practically Pikasso summer camps, visit www.pikassowaco.com or call (254) 217-8739.

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E E R

The 14th Annual Sertoma Kite Festival

FREE kites for the first 100 children at the gate FREE Parking & Admission All Kinds of Kites Live Music

Heart of Texas Sertoma Club Visit our new website for details including a map to the festival.

Coupon good for

1 FREE SPIN ON THE PRIZE WHEEL A winner with every spin!

www.wacosertoma.org

~ Habla Espanol

Where our children’s future begins!

Bosque Valley Children’s Services We serve children at home, in daycares, Head Start centers, or our conveniently located clinic.

Child Care Center Now Oﬀering Drop-In Services Call for more information.

Speech & Language Therapies Physical Therapy Occupational Therapy *Medicaid & most private insurances accepted.

2124 N. 25th St., Waco, TX 8

254-235-2430

www.bvchildrensservices.com

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Summer Camps & Activities

The Arc of McLennan County is dedicated to expanding opportunities, care, and support for persons and families impacted by intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Children ages 5 - 22 After School Care Summer Day Camp

Adults

The Opportunity Center

(a day program for adults on the autism spectrum)

Money Management Social Groups Counseling

254 756-7491

www.wacoarc.org

4901 Lakewood Drive, Waco, TX

READING PROGRAM SIGNUP BEGINS MAY 31! Join the Hewitt Public Library Reading Program this June & July to win prizes! All ages are eligible to sign up for this FREE program. Keep track of how much you’ve read using our online tracker & earn badges in the process! It’s a great way to encourage yourself or begin a friendly competition with your family & friends.

200 Patriot Court, Hewitt, TX 254-666-2442 | ww.cityofhewitt.com

Summer Camps & Activities

Kids Kamp Teaching the "Joy" of Dance for Over 40 Years, a Waco Tradition

Sign Up Now for Summer Camps & Classes! Princess Camps - ages 3 - 6, 10 a.m.- noon July 11 - 15 | July 18 - 22 | July 25 -29 Diva Dance Camp (Jazz & Hip Hop) - entering grades 2nd - 5th 1:30 - 3:30 p.m. | July 18 - 22 Broadway Bound Camp (Musical Theater Dance) Entering grades 2nd - 5th | 1:30 - 3:30 p.m. | July 25 - 29

an eclectic art studio

Ages 7 - 16 | 9:30 a.m - 12 p.m.

June 14 - 16 | July 11 - 15 | July 19 - 21 | July 26 - 28

5 Weeks of Summer Classes for Ages 1 - 10 | July 5 - Aug. 8

June 7- Ceramics/Glass Fusion | June 9 - Handbuilding Klay Kamp June 21 - Ceramics/Glass Fusion | June 23 - Glass Fusion June 30 - Acrylic Canvas | August 2 - Ceramics/Glass Fusion August 4 - Acrylic Canvas/T-Shirt Tie Dye | August 9 - TBA

Award Winning Dance Studio

Three-Day Kamps: $175 per student, per kamp One-Day Mini Kamps: $75 per student, per kamp Family discounts available Fee includes all materials, Kamp T-shirt, a daily snack, and lots of fun! Spaces are limited

(254) 776-1797

Owner/ Director: Natalie George Two Convenient Locations 7560 Bosque Blvd. & 6714 Woodway Dr.

www.jsodwaco.com

OPEN Mon. - Fri. 1 - 9 p.m. | Sat. 12 - 9 p.m. | Sun. 1 - 6 p.m.

4310 W. Waco Dr., Waco, TX www.practicallypikassowaco.com

Thanks Waco!

254-776-6248

Voted Best Cheer Program, Best Place to Host a Playgroup & Best Birthday Parties!

800 Schroeder Ste. C, Waco, TX

Family Martial Arts THE FAMILY THAT KICKS TOGETHER STICKS TOGETHER!

June 6 - 10 | July 11 - 15 | August 1 - 5 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. Call for more information.

Martial Arts for All Ages Starting at 18 Months!

Mention this ad and receive a FREE 30-day V.I.P. Pass!

Two Locations! 7005 Woodway Dr., Woodway, TX 254-772-KICK (5425) (across from Hollywood Theatre)

10201 China Spring Rd., Waco, TX 254-836-0999 (across from McDonalds)

www.familymartialartsoftexas.com Photo by Brigham Mayyeld Photography

Summer Camps & Activities

FLIPS

GYMNASTICS

Enroll Now for Summer Camps & Classes!

*No waiting list!

29 Years in

Waco!

Temple 254-231-3752

Birthday Parties Recreational Classes Cheer/Tumble Classes Tumbling Classes Preschool Field Trips

Visit our website to schedule!

www.FlipsWaco.com 6933 Woodway Dr., Waco 254-776-2150

Waco 254-572-8890

1201 Hewitt Dr. Ste. 107, Waco, TX

4311 S. 31st St., Ste. 105, Temple,TX

www.littlelandplaygym.com

5 DAYS of SUMMER FUN! JUNE 6  10 | JUNE 20  24 | JULY 11  15 | 9 A.M.  2 P.M. $200 per camper

8 a.m. early drop-oﬀ available - $32 per week Lunch included - $24 per week Ages 4 - 12

Camps include:

Scavenger Hunts | Sports | Building Challenges | Water Slides T-Shirt | Awesome Swag | Cookout Lunch On Friday Cookout lunch includes entrée, chips, drink & cookie. Please bring sack lunch Monday - Thursday Visit our website to register: mclanestadiumsummercamp.myonlinecamp.com

Birthday Parties Party with Field Access

Touchdown Alley Party

(Located in the heart of the McLane Stadium tailgating area)

254-710-8104 or operations@mclanestadium.com 1001 S. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Waco, TX

www.MclaneStadium.com

Pony Parties

Little Horses, BIG Fun!

Birthday Parties Bounce House Petting Zoo Special Events Riding Lessons Host your next party in our climate controlled arena! Or, we can bring ponies to you! Call to schedule an event or riding lessons.

254.716.8337 Smile@SharlaKayPhotography.com www.SharlaKayPhotography.com | 600 Lake Air Dr. Waco, TX

254-654-9481 www.MelaniesPonyParties.com

@WacoBabyWhisperer

Children’s Entertainment

Birthday Parties Special Events Face Painting Photos Packages Available Mascot Characters

254-338-3524

kidspartiesandmore@yahoo.com Visit us on Facebook! www.facebook.com/tootytot254 16

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12988 Moﬀat Rd, Temple, TX

Four Locations! Let us plan your next sleepover!. Birthdays | Holidays | Just Because Sleepovers Our parties include: tents, air mattresses, bedding, fairy lights, table trays & themed decor. Our themes include: Boho, Flamingo, Gaming, Glamping, Mermaid, Movie Night & Unicorn, with more themes on the way!

969 Marlandwood Dr., Temple, TX | 254.744.1842 403 N Bumblebee Dr., Little River Academy, TX | 254.982.0200 711 Lovers Lane, Gatesville, TX | 254.865.7380 213 N Central, Troy, TX | 254.982.0200 www.NewBeginningsLearningAcademy.com

254.466.2319 | sweetdreamsk@yahoo.com @sweetdreamsslumberpartiestx

At Once Upon A Child, we have all of the stuff your kids need at everyday low prices. We've got a great selection of gently used clothing, shoes, toys and gear for kids of all ages-from newborn to tween. Plus, we'll pay you on the spot for the stuff your kids have outgrown! 254-265-6237 www.OnceUponAChildWaco.com

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First Baptist Preschool Story Times & Activities Resume in February

Registration Required Mondays: Baby Time (ages birth to 1 yr.) 9:30 a.m. Tuesdays: Toddler Time (ages 1-3) 10 a.m. Early Literacy (ages 3-5) 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays: Toddler Time (ages 1-3) 10 a.m. Early Literacy (ages 3-5) 10:30 a.m.

& Parent’s Day Out

4 Large Playgrounds • State-Licensed • Field Trips • Chapel 6 Weeks - Pre-K • Christian Curriculum Texas School Readiness Certiication Full-Time Programs - 7:15 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Parent’s Day Out Preschool - Tues. - Thurs. 9 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Summer Camp for Children Completing Pre-K & Kindergarten

254-756-6933

500 Webster

www.fbcwaco.org

Please see the calendar on the Hewitt Public Library website to register and nd location due to early voting.

254-666-2442 200 Patriot Court, Hewitt, TX www.cityofhewitt.com Local Company with Great Service

Give the Gift of Endless Play!

www.ChinaSpringCountryStore.com 18

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RODGERS

Speech, Hearing & Educational Services

Is your child having trouble with reading, sounding out words or comprehension?

We Can Help!

Institute of Language, Literacy, Reading & Math Connecting the Sounds of Language for Stronger Communication & Reading

Patient Care Emphasis

Autism Dyslexia Language Delays & Deﬁcits Hearing Impairment Oral Expression Reading Deﬁcits Articulation Alternative Communication

Now Hiring Speech Therapists! Reading programs to ﬁt your child’s needs Speech Therapy | Oral Motor Training Ca Most Insurance Accepted

254-526-8255

ll About Your Child’s Program Today!

www.rshes.com | 2201 South W.S. Young, Ste. 112A, Killeen, TX | 1612 Austin Avenue, Suite B, Waco, TX

WORLD-CLASS TRAINING FACILITY AND STAFF! CHEER - TUMBLE - FITNESS

After School Programs Birthday Parties Open Gym: Fridays - 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. 907 E. 13th Ave., Belton (across from Summer Fun)

254-939-9900

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Re R Ye gi ou ar st n ra d ti Superior Training Budget-Friendly on ALL THAT JAZZ

Summer Classes Begin June 13

Classical Ballet Pointe Jazz Tap Private Lessons Adult Classes Lyrical Modern Pilates Hip Hop www.wacodance.com

buy the apples

Let

so you can buy the other things she needs. Call your local WIC today! Temple Killeen Copperas Cove Fort Hood 254-778-1511 254-526-2033 254-547-9571 254-532-8680 www.bellcountyhealth.org

Simply a Taste of Sweetness Kathy Tucker, Owner

254-644-4413 By Appointment Only

www.kakesbykat.com info@kakesbykat.com

“Community Choices in Children’s Care”

Want their feet on the right path for school readiness? Now Accepting Applications for Enrollment & Employment for the 2021 -2022 school year. Early Literacy Program | Texas School Ready Participant Applications may be submitted online for enrollment at: Paulette.Jeter@ct4c.org, for employment at: Terra.Scott@ct4c.org, or to the lock box at the locations listed below.

“We are committed to building stronger Central Texas communities, one child and family at a time.” Head Start is a Pre-School program for ages 0 - 5 years (including prenatal moms), also including children with disabilities. Head Start es un programa de Pre Escolar para las edades de 0 - 5 incluyen a niños con discapacidades.

www.CentralTexas4C.org 20

Services provided: Social Educational Dental Nutritional Health Disability

Main Oﬃce, Temple: 504 N. 5th St. Temple: 1100 S. 33rd St. Killeen: 802 N. 2nd St. Belton: 501 E. 4th Ave.

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254-778-0489 254-215-6178 254-501-9232 254-215-3790

No job too small! You name it, we do it.

A&D Construction

&Remodeling, LLC High-quality workmanship Free estimates & reasonable prices References available upon request | 254-230-2733

Easter Egg Hunt

Saturday, April 16 | 11 a.m.

Easter Children’s Message Egg Hunt FREE Hot Dog Lunch 254-772-4225

2 Ritchie Rd., Woodway,TX

www.fullerheaven.com

Seal out tooth decay. Birth - 18 years Comprehensive Orthodontics Available

Parties Events Camps Classes Ages 3 - 9 254-313-1038 174 Midway Center Woodway, TX

254-690-3380

www.OnlyBelieveParties.com

1201 South W.S. Young Dr., Killeen www.KilleenPediatricDentistry.com

Waco’s Premier Character Company since 2015

Over 30 enchanting characters to choose from for entertainment! We come to you, serving Waco and surrounding cities in Central Texas.

Parties Live Performances Public Appearances Family Fun Events In-house Seamstress All Occasion Alterations

Contact Haley (254)-644-2832 | ekingdomparties@gmail

610 Fit Training Studio

Empowering you to BE STRONG through faith & fitness

Aerobics Personal Training Small Group Personal Training Nutrition Coaching

254-216-1020

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TEMPLE KIDS DENTAL

Making a Splash About Teeth! Tjel Olson, D.M.D. General Dentistry Limited to Children Aaron Blackwelder, D.D.S., M.S. Board-Certiﬁed Pediatric Dentist Manuel Marien, Jr., D.D.S. Board-Certiﬁed Pediatric Dentist Alex Piedra, D.D.S. Board-Eligible Pediatric Dentist

254-771-5701

2122 Birdcreek Dr., Temple, TX www.TempleKidsDental.com

Complimentary Consultation | No-Interest Financing | Most Insurances Accepted

Josh M. Knowles, D.D.S., M.S.D. Board-Certiied Orthodontist

254-773-8028 | 209 Hilliard Rd. | Temple, TX