Central Texas
May 2022
FREE!
See article pg. 7
Summer Camps & Activities Pgs. 9 - 16
GROWING UP SMILING
We strive to treat each patient as we would our own family.
SPECIALIZED CARE CUSTOMIZED FOR YOU Infant & Children Exams Sedation Dentistry Special Needs Patients
Vernesha Lockhart, D.D.S.
Board-Certiied Pediatric Dentist
Alex Piedra, D.D.S.
Board-Eligible Pediatric Dentist
Colleen Segall, D.M.D.
Board Certiied Pediatric Dentist
Schedule an Appointment Today! 254-224-6008 1605 Lake Success 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
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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
254-756-6933
500 Webster
www.fbcwaco.org
for Fa mi
ly
Publisher: Michele Berger Creative Director: Jerri Denson Office Manager: Melissa Talbert Contributing Writer: Jessa McClure
Advertising Information:
Michele Berger (254)723-3696 Next Deadline June 6th For July & August Issues Contact us Phone: (254)723-3696 office@bergerpublishing.com
On the Cover: Hewitt Public Library
Hooray For Family™ 2022. All copy, photographs and informationcontained herein is protected by copyright and is not to be reproduced. Publisher reserves the right to decline any advertisements.
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. 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
254.716.8337 Smile@SharlaKayPhotography.com www.SharlaKayPhotography.com | 600 Lake Air Dr. Waco, TX
@WacoBabyWhisperer
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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
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Featured Cover Spotlight
By Jessa McClure
From story times to book clubs to music and movement classes, the Hewitt Public Library brings the community together all year long with educational and engaging activities and events. And their summer schedule is no different. The fun begins with a FREE kick-off celebration at Hewitt Park on June 1. The summer events continue through June and July with appearances from magicians, balloon artists, acrobats, and the Creature Teacher at Hewitt and Warren Parks. The library will also host Library Fest at the HPL on July 20 and Splash Day on July 27 at Hewitt Park. And don’t forget to join the summer reading program that runs from June 1 through July 31, where kids have the chance to win prizes. Free summer fun is just one of the many reasons that the Hewitt Public Library is among the top five percent of all libraries nationwide in terms of the way they serve their population, educate their children, and host community events. “We are thankful to the people of Hewitt whose patronage of the HPL keeps it vibrant and essential to Hewitt’s well-being,” said Hewitt Public Library director, Waynette Ditto. “I want to thank all the members—past and present—of the HPL Library Board as well as the Friends of the HPL for their steadfast support of our library. We could not do the work we do without your efforts.” The library’s engaging programs and community support has allowed the HPL to receive two prestigious awards, including the Texas Municipal Library Directors’ Association’s 2021 Achievement of Library Excellence Award and the American Star Library Award. “The 2021 Star Library Award was bestowed upon the HPL by the Library Journal, one of the most respected professional library publications,” Ditto said. “The 2021 Star Libraries are scattered across 40 states and are only awarded to 261 libraries nationwide.” For more information about what the library’s events and services, as well as weekly kits and photo opportunities, visit www.cityofhewitt.com, the library’s Facebook page or call 254-666-2442.
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G N I EN P DO N A GR
THE TUTORING CENTER Grades K - 12 Affordable Tuition One To One Instruction Guaranteed Results No Contracts READING MATH WRITING ALGEBRA 1 & 2 GEOMETRY KINDERGARTEN PROGRAM STUDY SKILLS ONLINE HOMEWORK HELP SAT/ACT TEST PREPARATION
CALL TODAY TO SCHEDULE YOUR FREE DIAGNOSTIC APPOINTMENT www.tutoringcenter.com
254-245-8717
3700 W.S. Young Dr., Killeen, TX 76542
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GRAND OPENING SPECIAL
FREE
Diagnostic Assesment PLUS
$100 OFF Enrollment
A $250 value with this coupon. Not appplicable to SAT/ACT test prep. or OLH or with any other offers or promotions. Limited tme only.
Design Camps Gaming Development Camps Robotics Camps Coding Camps Young Coder Camps
www.icodeschool.com/waco141 // waco141@icodeschool.com 254-236-9909 // 8810 Woodway Drive, Suite 402, Waco, Tx 76712 w w w. H o o r a y F o r F a m i l y. c o m
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Summer Camps & Activities
pOWERHOUSE
Summer Camp
› OPEN TO AGES › $130 PER WEEK › May 26 - aUG. 16 PRICE INCLUDES TWO 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. PRE-K AND UP WEEKLY FIELD TRIPS
gYM ACTIVITIES›
tRAMPOLINES | BOUNCY HOUSE | FOAM PIT CONTESTS | cRAFTS | FREE PLAY AND MORE! cAMPERs WILL NEED TO PACK A LUNCH DAILY. pOWERHOUSE WILl PROVIDE DAILY AFTERNOON SNACKS. 254-939-9900 907 E. 13th Ave., Belton
www.powerhousecheer-fitness.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)
Contact us for more information & pricing:
254-710-8104 or operations@mclanestadium.com 1001 S. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Waco, TX
www.MclaneStadium.com
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Summer Camps & Activities
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
FLIPS
GYMNASTICS
Quality Gymnastics for All Ages
Enroll Now for Summer Camps & Classes!
Presents 33rd Annual Summer Performing Arts Camp June 6 - 26 | Grades K - 12
Registration Now Open
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
All campers will be involved in the production of Mary Poppins, Jr., June 25-26 For registration, information & tickets call: Linda Haskett, Director 254-776-0707 | info@wacochildrenstheatre.org Lee Lockwood Library & Museum 2801 W. Waco Dr., Waco, TX www.WacoChildrensTheatre.org
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
!
Open
All Summer
Summer Camps & Activities
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Kids Kamp 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 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 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 OPEN Mon. - Fri. 1 - 9 p.m. | Sat. 12 - 9 p.m. | Sun. 1 - 6 p.m. 4310 West Waco Drive, Waco, TX
www.practicallypikassowaco.com
Teaching the "Joy" of Dance for Over 40 Years, a Waco Tradition
Competitive Cheer & Gymnastics Tryouts Contact us for Information.
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
5 Weeks of Summer Classes for Ages 1 - 10 | July 5 - Aug. 8
Thanks Waco!
254-776-6248
Voted Best Cheer Program, Best Place to Host a Playgroup & Best Birthday Parties!
800 Schroeder Ste. C, Waco, TX
(254) 776-1797
Award Winning Dance Studio
Owner/ Director: Natalie George Two Convenient Locations 7560 Bosque Blvd. & 6714 Woodway Dr.
www.jsodwaco.com
READING PROGRAM SIGNUP 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.
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200 Patriot Court, Hewitt, TX 254-666-2442 | ww.cityofhewitt.com w w w. H o o r a y F o r F a m i l y. c o m
FOREVER FA M I L I E S Community partners helping local children find a brighter future
By Lindsay Liepman
Photography by Stacey with Gift of Life Photography
Ten-year-old twins, Aiden and Marshall, and their older brother, William “Bobby,” are looking for their forever family that will help them maintain their close bond. These adventurous boys are inquisitive about the world around them and especially love science and reading. Bobby strives to please others and has a strong desire to be accepted. He enjoys all things Minecraft and playing outdoors. Aiden is a bit more outgoing than his twin, and enjoys hiking, fishing, swimming and playing with LEGOs. Marshall is a bit more reserved, and enjoys playing basketball, swimming and participating in martial arts. The ideal family for these three active boys would be one that emphasizes routine, structure, and spending time together. These brothers would also do best in a home where they are the only children and strengthen their connection to each other. If you’d like to learn more about adopting Bobby, Aiden, and Marshall, go to www.heartgallerytexas.com MODERN MEDIA COMMUNITY HIGHLIGHT
The Arc of McLennan County is dedicated to expanding opportunities, care, and support for persons and families impacted by intellectual anddevelopmental 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
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Pony Parties
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!
A S K A B O UT O UR L OYALTY P ROGRAM!
4316 W. Waco Drive
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.
next to la bella salon and jason’s deli Connect with us!
254-654-9481 www.smartypantswaco.com
www.MelaniesPonyParties.com
12988 Moffat Rd, Temple, TX
Children’s Entertainment
Ballet Pointe Tap Jazz Contemporary Hip-Hop
Birthday Parties Special Events Face Painting Photos Packages Available Mascot Characters
Acrobatics Pom Musical Theatre
254-776-1672 16200 Badger Ranch Blvd., Waco www.expressionsdance.studio
Owner/ Instructor Jenni Holley, B.A. Dance & Theatre Certified Dance Masters of America
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254-338-3524
kidspartiesandmore@yahoo.com Visit us on Facebook! www.facebook.com/tootytot254
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~ 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
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254-235-2430
www.bvchildrensservices.com
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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
Parties Events Camps Classes Ages 3 - 9 254-313-1038 174 Midway Center Woodway, TX
www.OnlyBelieveParties.com
Four Locations! Let
buy the apples
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
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 20
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Vacation Bible School
Waco’s Premier Character Company since 2015
Ages 3 - 5th grade June 12 - 16 | 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.
May is for Mermaids!
Book your mermaid party with a real swimming mermaid! Parties Live Performances Public Appearances Family Fun Events In-house Seamstress All Occasion Alterations
Contact Haley (254)-644-2832 | ekingdomparties@gmail
254-772-4225
2 Ritchie Rd., Woodway,TX
Register for free online!
www.fullerheaven.com/VBS
Simply a Taste of Sweetness Kathy Tucker, Owner
254-644-4413 By Appointment Only
www.kakesbykat.com info@kakesbykat.com
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 ALL THAT JAZZ
No job too small! You name it, we do it.
A&D
Construction &Remodeling, LLC
Summer Classes Begin June 13
Classical Ballet Pointe Jazz Tap Private Lessons Adult Classes Lyrical Modern Pilates Hip Hop www.wacodance.com
Birthdays | Holidays Just Because Sleepovers
Online Reservations at www.paintingwithatwist.com/waco
High-quality workmanship Free estimates & reasonable prices References available upon request | 254-230-2733
We Buy Gently Used Kids’ Stuff!
Our parties include:
tents, air mattresses, bedding, fairy lights, table trays & themed decor
254.466.2319 sweetdreamsk@yahoo.com @sweetdreamsslumberpartiestx
Clothing Toys & Books Footwear Baby Gear 4600 Franklin Ave., Waco | onceuponachildwaco.com 254-265-6237
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Local Company with Great Service
Give the Gift of Endless Play!
www.ChinaSpringCountryStore.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 22
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
GROWING SMILES
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