Hooray for Family Central Texas August 2022

Central Texas

August 2022

FREE!

!

NEW

PRESCHOOL See article pg. 7

Beat the Back to School Rush!

With our extensive experience in pediatric dentistry and behavioral techniques, we understand that each child is different - and, we adapt our approach based on their unique personality.

We offer in-office sedation, hospital sedation and individualized care for children with special needs.

Schedule an Appointment Today! 254-224-6008

1605 Lake Success Dr., Waco, TX | www.WacoKidsDental.com

Serving the Children of Central Texas

Dyslexia Therapy Services for All Ages NOW PROVIDING: DYSLEXIA EVALUATIONS by a licensed dyslexia therapist DYSLEXIA THERAPY SERVICES SPECIALIZED READING INTERVENTION for all ages.

Call for more information.

Speech & Language Therapy

Free Screenings

Medicaid and most insurances accepted.

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

Academic Tutoring Math Reading Study Skills Writing Spelling Comprehension

Tutoring services are performed by certified teachers and are conducted during or after school hours.

Phone: 254-235-1850 Fax: 254-235-4879 7545 Bosque Blvd., Waco, TX

info@therapygroupofwaco.com www.therapygroupofwaco.com

4

FLIPS

GYMNASTICS

Quality Gymnastics for All Ages

Enroll Now for Fall Classes!

29 Years in

Waco!

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

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

C a l l 2 5 4 - 7 2 3 - 3 6 96 f o r A d ver t i s i n g In f o r m a t i o n

5

HEAD START | ENROLL NOW Free Programs for Eligible 0 - 5 Year Olds Includes children with disabilities and pregnant moms Early Literacy Program | Texas School Ready Participant

“Community Choices in Children’s Care”

Accepting applications for employment at: terra.scott@ct4c.org “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.CT4C.org

6

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: 800 Shady Lane #733

w w w. H o o r a y F o r F a m i l y. c o m

254-778-0489 254-215-6178 254-501-9232 254-939-9335

Featured Cover Spotlight

PRESCHOOL

By Jessa McClure

Finding a PreK program that will prepare your child for kindergarten and engage them mentally and physically can seem like an impossible task. That’s why D’Ann Legg, owner of Powerhouse Cheer & Fitness in Belton, TX, is opening Powerhouse Performing Arts Preschool. She wants parents to have a one-stop shop when it comes to their child’s education and their physical fitness.

She invites parents and children to be a part of the first Central Texas preschool to unleash the possibilities of kinesthetic and cognitive learning.

“It’s been a dream of mine for a long time,” Legg said. “I teach a lot of the babies in tumbling and competitive cheer and they’re so talented, but not every parent wants to bring their four-year-old to a class after they get off work. This gives them the chance to educate their child and provide activities.”

The preschool’s unique curriculum will focus on learning cognitive skills through matching, sequencing, storytelling, writing, reading prep, number sense, talent building, and Bible study, while also giving them a chance to participate in trampoline, tumbling, gymnastics, dance, creative movement, music, sports activities, and aerial awareness.

“Learning in a kinesthetic environment enables instructional coaches to stimulate both sides of the brain,” Legg said. “Crossing the midline of the brain through various patterns of movement help build pathways from the left side of the brain to the right.”

When children are learning in a kinesthetic/tactile style, they have improved memory skills and are more motivated to learn.

“Our goal is to incorporate a variety of cross-body movement, activities, songs, dance, tumbling and other talent enhancements into their math, reading and science lessons,” she said. “The self-esteem and confidence built through these methods will make a tremendous impact on the way the child feels about learning.”

Children will spend a portion of each day in a core classroom with a certified lead teacher, who has had many years in the classroom.

“Elnora Vybiral is coming to us with thirteen years of elementary school teaching experience,” Legg said. “She is loved by all the kids she teaches, and we are so grateful to have her heading this program.”

Along with classroom time, preschoolers will also spend time tumbling, dancing, and moving inside Powerhouse’s 17,000 square foot gym.

The best part is that all these activities, after school care, and morning and afternoon snacks are all included in the price of tuition. And Powerhouse offers discounts for teachers and military personnel.

Class is in session August 17 and registration is already open. To secure your child’s spot, send an email to powerhousecheer@live.com.

Powerhouse is located at 907 E. 13th Ave. Belton, TX 76513.

C a l l 2 5 4 - 7 2 3 - 3 6 96 f o r A d ver t i s i n g In f o r m a t i o n

7

Local Company with Great Service

Give the Gift of Endless Play!

www.ChinaSpringCountryStore.com

Tickets only $10 for individuals | *$8 per person for groups of 12 or more! *Additional school group discounts may apply.

Educational Tours Now Available

Come see the home of the Baylor Bears from a different perspective with a 90-minute tour!

McLane Stadium is also Central Texas’ state-of-the-art sports and entertainment venue.

The tour includes:

Baylor Locker Room | Recruit Lounge | Post-Game Interview Room | Press Box | Presidential Level | Field

Birthday Parties at McLane Stadium 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 8

w w w. H o o r a y F o r F a m i l y. c o m

www.MclaneStadium.com

Announcing Our Fall 2022 Family Place Library Workshop Series: September 17, September 24, September 29, October 5, October 15

Make a play date with your child to enjoy a variety of educational toys and activities!

Each week a different child development specialist will be available to chat with parents and to answer any questions.

Orientation & Early Literacy Child Development Speech, Hearing & Language Development Nutrition Music & Movement

For questions, contact Rochelle Fidler Family Place Program, Hewitt Public Library rfidler@cityofhewitt.com | 254-666-2442

For more information about Family Place Libraries, go to Family Place Libraries.org Waynette Ditto, Library Director | 200 Patriot Court, Hewitt, TX | 254-666-2442 | www.cityofhewitt.com

C a l l 2 5 4 - 7 2 3 - 3 6 96 f o r A d ver t i s i n g In f o r m a t i o n

9

Register Now!

Ballet . Tap . Jazz . Lyrical . Pointe

No Registratio n Fee!

“Quality Dance Training with the Patience Your Child Deserves”

254-744-1310

First Baptist Preschool & 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

Register Now for Classes!

254-756-6933

500 Webster

www.fbcwaco.org

Thanks Waco!

254-776-6248

Voted Best Cheer Program & Best Place to Host a Playgroup

800 Schroeder Ste. C, Waco, TX

www.txdynasty.com

C a l l 2 5 4 - 7 2 3 - 3 6 96 f o r A d ver t i s i n g In f o r m a t i o n

11

~ 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 254-235-2430

*Medicaid & most private insurances accepted.

2124 N. 25th St., Waco, TX

www.bvchildrensservices.com

Follow Us to Find Events Activities and Family Fun!

@hoorayforfamily

12

w w w. H o o r a y F o r F a m i l y. c o m

Family Martial Arts THE FAMILY THAT KICKS TOGETHER STICKS TOGETHER!

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

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.

254-654-9481 www.MelaniesPonyParties.com

14

w w w. H o o r a y F o r F a m i l y. c o m

12988 Moffat Rd, Temple, TX

Resale Boutique

Be a

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 BO U T O U R L OYA LT Y P RO GRA M!

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

www.smartypantswaco.com

Four Locations!

Ballet Pointe Tap Jazz Contemporary Hip-Hop Acrobatics Pom Musical Theatre

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

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

C a l l 2 5 4 - 7 2 3 - 3 6 96 f o r A d ver t i s i n g In f o r m a t i o n

15

FOREVER FA M I L I E S Community partners helping local children find a brighter future

By Lindsay Liepman

Photo by Jeida Mitchell Photography

Raven, Ra’Shoun, and Timothy are looking for a forever family that will keep them together and allow them to grow and flourish.

Raven is the oldest and is caring, selfless and considerate, especially when it comes to her brothers. She’s a social butterfly who enjoys dancing and singing, but her talents don’t stop there.

She’s also a gifted artist who brings characters to life by the stories she tells.

Ra’Shoun is energetic and enjoys playing outside and spending time with his siblings.

Youngest brother, Timothy is loving and likes to give big hugs.

Although he is non-verbal, he communicates with gestures.

Like his brother, he also enjoys playing outside.

This sibling group needs a forever family who will welcome them into their homes and hearts and help them have a bright future. If you’re interested in adopting these sweet siblings. or want to learn more about adoption, visit www.heartgallerytexas.com.

MODERN MEDIA COMMUNITY HIGHLIGHT

Children’s Entertainment

Birthday Parties Special Events Face Painting Photos Packages Available Mascot Characters

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

16

254-338-3524

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

w w w. H o o r a y F o r F a m i l y. c o m

!

Open

All Summer

Specializing in Ceramics & Mosaics

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

Register for Fall Today!

an eclectic art studio

Ballet Tap Jazz Hip Hop Contemporary Modern Musical Theater Dance/Drill Team Prep Mommy & Me Ballet Boys Hip Hop Ages one - adult

(254) 776-1797

Award Winning Dance Studio

OPEN: Mon. - Fri. 1 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Sat. 12 p.m. - 9 p.m. Sun. 1 p.m. - 6 p.m.

4310 West Waco Drive, Waco, TX

www.jsodwaco.com

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

@WacoBabyWhisperer 18

w w w. H o o r a y F o r F a m i l y. c o m

www.practicallypikassowaco.com

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

RODGERS

Speech, Hearing & Educational Services

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

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

We Can Help!

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

C a l l 2 5 4 - 7 2 3 - 3 6 96 f o r A d ver t i s i n g In f o r m a t i o n

19

Simply a Taste of Sweetness Kathy Tucker, Owner

254-644-4413

By Appointment Only

www.kakesbykat.com info@kakesbykat.com

Scheduled 2-hr. Play Sessions Little Learners Classes | Parents’ Night Out Sensory Art Classes | Play Groups Spring & Summer Camps | Birthday Parties Physical Therapy | Speech Therapy | Occupational Therapy *No waiting list!

Waco 254-572-8890

1201 Hewitt Dr. Ste. 107, Waco, TX

Temple 254-231-3752

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

Visit our website to schedule! www.littlelandplaygym.com

20

w w w. H o o r a y F o r F a m i l y. c o m

SUPER

Back to School Bash!

Waco’s Premier Character Company since 2015

Superheroes are coming to a city near you Sat., Aug. 20, 2022!

Contact us for more information on this SUPER event!

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

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

Birthday Parties Date Nights Team Building

Let

buy the apples

so you can buy the other things she needs.

Call your local WIC today!

Online Reservations at www.paintingwithatwist.com/waco

254-304-4727 1621 N. Valley Mills Dr. Waco, TX

Re R Ye gi ou ar st n ra d ti Superior Training Budget-Friendly on Register Now! Fall Classes Begin Aug. 15

Temple Killeen Copperas Cove Fort Hood 254-778-1511 254-526-2033 254-547-9571 254-532-8680 www.bellcountyhealth.org

ALL THAT JAZZ

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

Never put a baby to bed with a bottle.

Birth - 18 years Comprehensive Orthodontics Available

254-690-3380

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

Birthdays | Holidays Just Because Sleepovers

Ages 1 - 4 Mondays & Wednesdays 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.

254-716-7774 4809 W Waco Dr., Waco, TX

www.rcwaco.com/parents-day-out

Our parties include:

tents, air mattresses, bedding, fairy lights, table trays & themed decor

254.466.2319 sweetdreamsk@yahoo.com @sweetdreamsslumberpartiestx

C a l l 2 5 4 - 7 2 3 - 3 6 96 f o r A d ver t i s i n g In f o r m a t i o n

21

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

www.powerhousecheer-fitness.com

Take THE TUTORING CENTER’s Summer Checklist Challenge!

Is your child constantly struggling with their current level of reading and/or math?

Have your child’s skills begun to decline regardless of how hard they are working?

Does your child have anxiety about taking tests?

Have you noticed your child losing confidence themsel in themselves?

One-to-One Instruction with Individualized Programs in: Math Reading Writing Study Skills

www.tutoringcenter.com

254-245-8717

3700 W.S. Young Dr., Killeen, TX 76542

Head Back to School with a Healthy Smile

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