Lincoln Kids Summer 2021

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Summer 2021 | Year 28, Issue 110 | FREE! Take one!

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Now Enr olli n g !

Who: Preschoolers, toddlers, infants, and expecting parents to participate in either centeror home-based early childhood education program options.

Acceptin g applica tion for fall 2 s 021 opening s!

Head Start is FREE for eligible families!

Call (402) 875-9328 to GET STARTED!

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Tips to Keep Your Children Safe in the Summer Heat

1 Never leave your child unattended in a vehicle, even with the windows down. The temperature inside a parked vehicle can rapidly rise to a dangerous level for children, pets, and even adults

2 Take a break by reducing, eliminating, or rescheduling strenuous activities until a cooler time 3 Keep your child hydrated by encouraging them to drink water 4 Dress your child in lightweight, light-colored clothing to reflect heat, sunlight and allow airflow 5 Keep your child out of direct sunlight, especially between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

For more tips and information from health experts, visit capitalmomnebraska.com.

Capital MOM

Summer 2O21

FROM THE PUBLISHER Dear Lincoln Kids Readers, I hope you are walking into May with a little pep in your step and hope in your heart. May is a good reminder to celebrate the big milestones and daily wins.

Many of you will attend dance recitals, graduations, baseball games, BMX bike races, and more. I know the effort it takes to “do all the things” is no small feat, so from my corner of the world to yours, I’m cheering you on.

Here’s what we’ve been celebrating at Lincoln Kids: — Sweet Amaya, Mackenzie’s daughter, turned two — Sheena, Michelle, Jacque, & Jodi celebrated another circle around the sun — Lincoln, Sheena’s son, moved up to the green belt in Taekwondo — Lincoln Kids Creative Director, Sean, accepted the lead role as Gomez Addams in this summer’s production of The Addams Family at Pinewood Bowl As for my family, I’m celebrating that many of my kids have tried something new and loved it. From debate to cheer to track, they have each found a new place to thrive. What a joy that is to see as a parent.

I hope you find reasons to celebrate this May and every day. As with each edition of Lincoln Kids, may this bring a little joy to your life.

THE LK TEAM

With gratitude,

Christine Weeks, Owner / Publisher

What’s Inside?

Sylvan Learning Center

Cake My Day

Find Your Healthcare Home at Bluestem Health

2

4

6

Understanding Guardianship

Hop on the Art Bus!

Theatre Arts for Kids

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13

14

Turning a New Pandemic Page

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Go Max!

Hop, SCIP, Jump, and Run

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27

Make Hot Dogs Cool This Summer

Business Directory

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41

Littercize

8

Nebraska Passport 2021

18

Where’s Karla?

Living as an Immigrant Family

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34

Stay tuned for our next issue!

August 2021

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Your Personal Connection to Learning Sylvan changes lives. It really does. We know it because we see it every day. Parents and kids come through our doors for help with everything from wanting to get ahead in college prep, to correcting small setbacks, to overcoming a long academic history of feeling defeated and hopeless. The Sylvan experience gives kids what they need to walk away with confidence – thankful and thriving – and it is everything to us. We often hear, “Sylvan changed our lives!” This is our greatest compliment and is why we are here.

Struggling in school affects everything for kids and their families. Relationships with peers, parents, and teachers are strained when kids struggle. The ability or confidence to try new things is hugely impacted by academic obstacles.

Who We Are Marissa Roh, former CPA and a secondgeneration Sylvan owner, is the beating heart of Sylvan. Her mother-in-law, Lori Roh, began her career as a middle school business teacher, then started her first Sylvan Learning Center in 1996. For the past 24 years, the Rohs have focused on helping children thrive in school and giving families peace of mind!

As Regional Director, Lacey Hoffman oversees all center and education operations for Sylvan in Lincoln and Omaha. A former HR professional and coach, Lacey chose a career in the tutoring business because she loves the personalized approach that Sylvan takes— focusing on the needs of each individual student to help them gain the confidence and skills needed to be successful in school.

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Both Marissa and Lacey are mothers and know the struggle parents face every day making sure their kids are getting all of their needs met, including in the educational setting. They are here to help.

Summer Learning Loss Summer is for enrichment and fun! After a school year full of in-person and/or online learning, it’s important that your child doesn’t lose the knowledge and skills for which they have worked so hard. The cool thing about preventing summer learning loss is that it can be made-to-order at Sylvan. With personalized scheduling to meet your family’s needs, our team is here to help YOUR child succeed.

If you are looking for high-energy, interactive summer learning camps, we offer new and fun camp experiences at Sylvan. These camps are designed to have a skills-focus and lasting impact outside the classroom.

Something for Everyone at Sylvan •

Personalized Tutoring, InCenter, Online, and In-Home

•

Advancement and Test Prep

•

Camps — During School Breaks, Summer, and Special Weekends!

Tutoring starts at $60/hr. College prep starts at $65/hr.

Advancement classes and camps start at $250!

For kids who are struggling with test scores, grades, and confidence, or those who have slipped behind, we guarantee results!

Marissa

I’ve always wanted to have a fulfilling career and I found it with Sylvan. The best part is being able to see how Sylvan impacts a student’s whole life when they get on track academically.

Kids sometimes come to us beat down by academics, lacking confidence socially, and then by the end of it they are thriving and trying new things. It is so much bigger than grades or words per minute. It is about their whole life.”

Owner

I saw the passion in my motherin-law, Lori, and though changing careers wasn’t easy I knew it was the right choice for me. It really set in when I was able to hear first-hand, at her Rosary, about the impact Lori had on children and teachers. With Sylvan I get to make a difference and I love what I do: helping to develop learners and leaders, and living through their success stories every day. Choosing Sylvan has changed my life too!”

Lacey Regional Director

Our Sylvan team may be the piece of your summer puzzle that has been missing. Come see us at 3900 Yankee Hill Rd #113, or check out our website to see what we can do for your kiddo!

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Go Ahead, Cake Someone’s Day Do you know a child in Lincoln who is having a birthday but might not have the means to celebrate? At Cake My Day, we want all kids to be celebrated. Simply nominate a child who needs a birthday to remember, and we’ll get the cake and present sent over in a sweet and swift fashion!

How Cake My Day Works 1

Know a Kid Who Deserves a Birthday Cake and Might Not Get One? First, nominate a child in Lincoln with an upcoming birthday at cakemyday.org and provide information about the special Cake Kid and delivery details. It’s “a piece of cake” and oh-so-sweet!

2

Our Team of Cake My Day Enthusiasts Take it from Here Next, we cook up the birthday magic.

We order the cake, purchase the gift, coordinate the delivery – and a special delivery person if needed!

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Double Check the Details We will then confirm the details with the Cake Kid’s parent or guardian. Be sure to include accurate contact details when filling out the form.

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Birthday Made!

We love to see the smile on the deserving child’s face when they get their special Cake My Day delivery on their birthday.

There’s no sweeter feeling than this one!

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How To Get Involved Want to get involved in the Cake My Day delivery magic? You can be a part of this special organization by donating your resources and time. We are looking for firefighters, teachers, athletes, police officers, artists, and local celebrities to deliver cakes and make the day for these Cake Kids!

Every kid deserves to have their special day made extra special.

Cake My Day was whipped up as another way to keep Jullia Rose’s memory alive. The Jullia Rose Foundation, Service Call, and the Wegner family are on a mission to bring joy and hope to kids who need it most.

Kids are special, birthdays should be too.

Know what would be sweet?

Nominate a child who needs a birthday to remember, and we’ll get the cake and present sent over in Cake My Day birthday fashion, at no cost.

We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to helping children in need.

cakemyday.org cakemydaylnk@gmail.com

Find Your Healthcare Home at Bluestem Health Summer months are filled with fun activities outdoors. You never know when you might need to seek medical care from a family provider.

That’s why Bluestem Health wants you to know that we are ready to care for the needs of all busy families.

Comprehensive Services From birth to seniors, Bluestem Health provides high-quality services through all stages of life. Whether it’s well-child visits for your littles, management of a chronic disease, or having your teeth cleaned, we’ve got you covered. Our scope of services include: • Family Medicine

• Dental

• OB

• Pharmacy

• Pediatrics

• Behavioral Health

Your health.

Your neighborhood.

Kreshel Clinic 3100 N. 14th

Our personalized services extend well beyond medical care that you likely won’t find at other clinics in Lincoln. We also offer breastfeeding consulting, patient support services, health education, and interpreters.

ADAMS

Main Clinic

48TH

1021 N. 27th

At Bluestem Health, all patients are welcome.

We accept most insurance plans, as well as Medicare and Medicaid. If you are searching for a healthcare provider that puts you and your family first, give us a call at 402-476-1455. We’d love the opportunity to help you stay healthy!

Health 360 & Admin

VINE

O ST.

2301 & 2246 O

Piedmont Clinic Thompson Clinic 2222 S. 16th Suite 435

27TH

Our friendly and compassionate family medicine providers are the best! They are experienced in caring for all types of illnesses and conditions. We have a team of primary care providers who are available to manage your healthcare needs.

14TH

Excellent Providers

1500 S. 48th Suite 412

A ST.

SOUTH

bluestemlincoln.com • (402) 476-1455

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TAKE YOUR PICK

Little Ladybug!

June Menu

Session One: June 1st-3rd ‘Pineapple Princess’ Camp: June 22nd-24th Session Two: June 22nd-24th To register go to intermixdance.com

INTERMIX DANCE COMPANY • 2755 JAMIE LANE, LINCOLN NE, 68516 • 402-904-6753 PHOTO CREDITS JENNIFER SCHULTZ PHOTOGRAPHY

Littercize

BY W I L L A D I C O S TA N Z O , WA S T E D I V E R S I O N C O O R D I N ATO R , C I T Y O F L I N C O L N

While being outside during these warm months you may start to notice more litter. Instead of pointing out the litter and doing nothing about it, grab a bag and Littercize!

Pick up litter + exercise! It helps the environment and it makes our community clean and beautiful.

My children, like most children, want a toy every time we visit a store (more waste). Instead of giving in and purchasing that toy, we are using Littercize as a teaching tool. Aluminum cans have a value. If we collect enough cans, they can use the money to purchase their desired toy.

So, we get to work. With gloves on, I stand guard in my high visibility vest, and we grab our reusable bags, one for litter and one for aluminum cans. We walk, sort, listen, and look to ensure our safety while picking up litter. Breathing in the fresh air, we

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discuss the importance of picking up litter to help the animals and plants that live on our planet.

After we have collected a few large bags of aluminum cans, we’ll take a trip to the local recycling buy-back center for the cash reward.

And then, we will discuss: should we save the money, donate it to a good cause, or buy the highly sought-after toy? Maybe, the same toy could be purchased used, thus saving money and reducing waste. Ultimately the decision is theirs. This exercise, no pun intended, was not about making money, it was an opportunity to instill hard work and patience into my children while teaching them to take care of the planet we call home.

For more information about litter reduction or to borrow litter pick-up supplies, search for Keep Lincoln and Lancaster County Beautiful, or reach them by email at kllcb@lincoln.ne.gov, and by phone at 402-441-8035.

Cleaner cities are happier and healthier.

Help us keep Lincoln clean!

Understanding Guardianship

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The guardian completes guardianship training through the State of Nebraska.

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A list of “interested persons” in the guardianship—estranged parents, siblings, children, spouses, or anyone with a financial interest.

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A list of governmental agencies providing benefits for the disabled adult child.

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Medical records and a letter from a medical professional saying that the disabled adult child is unable to make their own responsible decisions.

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An inventory of the disabled adult child’s assets, current statements of all accounts and investments, and a valuation of each. Significant assets may require a conservatorship.

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A durable power of attorney or health care power of attorney or a living will, if any.

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Whether the guardian is indebted to or a creditor of the disabled adult child.

BY N I C H O L E B O G E N L A M S O N D U G A N & M U R R AY L L P

As Emily Perl Kingsley analogized in her essay, Welcome to Holland, raising a disabled child means, “… you must go out and buy new guide books. And you must learn a whole new language. And you will meet a whole new group of people you would never have met.

It’s just a different place.” When a child in need of guardianship turns age 19 in Nebraska, probate court is a new language, experience, and group of people parents must navigate.

Probate court covers guardianships and conservatorships for an “incapacitated” person: someone who cannot—by reason of mental illness or deficiency, physical illness or disability, or other cause—make “responsible decisions” for themselves. These decisions include choosing where to live; obtaining medical care; giving necessary consents, approvals, or releases; obtaining training or education; applying for benefits; participating in legal proceedings; entering into contracts; and managing money, bills, and property.

Parents may make all decisions for their disabled minor child; however, at age 19 and without a guardianship in place, parents may no longer make those decisions for their disabled adult child.

To gain guardianship of a disabled adult child, parents file a petition for guardianship— preferably before the child turns age 19. They’ll need key information for their attorney: 1

A willing and responsible person to serve as guardian—a parent or other trusted adult.

2 The guardian undergoes background and credit checks.

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An attorney will then prepare the petition to appoint a guardian in the probate court.

Uncontested proceedings take three to six months. The guardian makes annual reports to the court, but more importantly, makes the necessary decisions for the benefit of the disabled adult child to ensure they are properly taken care of through their life’s journey.

Nichole Bogen is an attorney in the Lincoln office of Lamson Dugan & Murray LLP, located in the Historic Haymarket District. She helps individuals and businesses navigate the court system through civil proceedings.

YOU’RE INVITED to Archie’s Party at Morrill Hall

We’re turning

150

Help us celebrate with Dairy Store ice cream, activities, games and other fun.

June 12, 2021 Included with admission Members get in FREE

museum.unl.edu • (402) 472-2637 • 14th & Vine St on UNL Campus

The University of Nebraska does not discriminate based upon any protected status.

Please see go.unl.edu/nondiscrimination.

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Ar

s e s s t C l Faor all ages!

Experience hands-on, creative fun, all summer long at LUX Center for the Arts. Summer camps, private lessons, and family workshops available for youth ages 5-16 in painting, drawing, pottery, and more! Explore new art techniques, learn from skilled artists, create orginal works of art, and make lasting friendships and memories!

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Summer camps for ages 5-8 are now sold out! Summer camps still available for ages 9-16. Limited spots open in available camps, so act fast!

. a t. . grams w L U E n ro l l n o rg/pro X c e n t e r. o

LUX Center for the Arts 2601 N 48th St. Lincoln, NE 402.466.8692 12 |

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Lincoln’s Choice for the Freshest Gourmet Popcorn in town!

7811 Pioneers Blvd. #108 getmaize.com

Hop on the Art Bus! Art is needed. Art is Community. Art is everywhere — thanks to Art Bus LNK. This is the mission of Art Bus LNK, a traveling art studio that brings free art opportunities to kids and adults. An idea that began in 2018 is now a traveling art bus for all people to create and paint.

Summer Fun Has Only Begun Art Bus LNK is beyond excited to start their summer route full of engaging art programs. They are hoping to be in neighborhoods near elementary schools, and will also partner with nonprofits that share in their mission.

This year, protocols will again be in place for COVID-19 safety, such as:

First Stroke of Genius

•

Wearing a mask

When Letura Idigima was a paraeducator at Lincoln High, she quickly learned that many of these young artists had limited or no access to art supplies. She began dreaming about the possibility of a free mobile art studio for students and fell in love with the concept.

Thanks to Facebook, Letura found a bus for sale and thus began the story of Art Bus LNK.

•

Social distancing

•

Waiver for parents

Avni Srivastav joined Art Bus LNK in March of 2020 as Director of Communications and Marketing, just as the pandemic started. She graduated from Indiana University with a degree in marketing, and when she heard about what her Irving Middle School friend was up to, she knew she wanted to help out with her new endeavor!

Art Bus LNK is Here to Stay For Letura and Avni, this experience has been nothing short of incredible. They are opening a brick and mortar Art Bus LNK location and they have a brand new bus.

Art Bus LNK has recently received much support by way of donations for their summer programming, meaning that more people and kiddos can paint all summer long at no cost.

“Working and engaging with these kids is unlike anything else.

Watching them come up with an idea and taking it to the canvas is something you can’t understand until you see it,” said Letura.

It’s been one year since Letura and Avni have been working together, as well as having the bus. They can’t wait to see what the summer brings – here’s to Art Bus LNK.

lincolnkidsinc.com | 13

The Show Must Go On

BY E L LY S O N S T O L C PA R T, L I N C O L N K I D

Ever since I was a little kid, I knew that my calling was to perform. My first performance was The Wizard Of Oz with Theatre Arts For Kids. I was cast as the Mayor of Munchkin City and Nikko the monkey.

Fast forward a few years to rehearsals for Beauty & the Beast with Theatre Arts For Kids. I was cast in the role of Belle and was so happy that I could have cried when I found out. I was living every little girl’s dream — to be a Disney princess.

At the beginning of March, the whole first act of the show was staged and choreographed and in my opinion, it was pretty solid.

The second act, however, was not. This was completely fine at this point because we had a whole month to complete the show, or so we thought.

Thursday, March 12, 2020, I got a text at school.

It was from our Director, Leah Kolar. It said, “We are moving the show up a month.” We would be performing Beauty & the Beast that weekend!

When my mom picked me up, she filled me in on all the details of why this was happening.

Leah, being the smart woman that she is, knew that if the schools shut down, there would be no way that we could do our performance in April.

Leah decided to try and do the show THAT weekend and what came next was an experience you only get once in a lifetime.

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That weekend consisted of two rehearsals— one on Thursday for three hours and the other on Friday for twelve hours— then performances on Saturday.

I woke up Saturday morning and could hardly believe that I was going onstage as Belle that day. I was super excited and couldn’t wait to get to the theatre.

After that day, I had a chance to reflect on the whole experience. It truly taught me so many lessons that I will take with me for the rest of my life.

COVID-19 may be a tough thing that everyone in the world is enduring right now but we all can find the light in the challenges it brings.

Everyone in that theatre gave it their all which made the show as amazing as it could have been. I will always remember this experience and the lessons it taught me.

CLASSES JUNE 21 - 25 Peter & The Wolf Dancing, Acting, & Mask Making Instructors: Leah Kolar & Maddy Stolcpart Ages 5 - 10 | 6/21 - 6/25 | 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM Performance: Friday, June 25 at 11:00 AM World Music Drum, Sing, Dance Instructors: Lauren Cook & Alexis Crist Ages 7 - 15 | 6/21 - 6/25 | 12:30 PM - 3:30 PM Performance: Friday, June 25 at 2:30 PM

CLASSES JUNE 28 - JULY 2 Princess Party Sing, Dance, Act! Instructors: Leah Kolar & Alexis Crist Ages 5 - 10 | 6/28 - 7/2 | 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM Performance: Friday, July 2 at 11:00 AM

SUMMER 2021

Broadway Bound Sing, Dance, Act! Instructors: Leah Kolar & Maddy Stolcpart Ages 7 - 15 | 6/28 - 7/2 | 12:30 PM - 3:30 PM Performance: Friday, July 2 at 2:30 PM

CLASSES JULY 5 - 9 • Daily screening and small class sizes.

• 30 minutes between classes for air exchange.

• Pandemic protocol observed per local guidelines.

• Students will be masked and distanced when inside.

• Students will be unmasked and distanced outside.

• Performance details for all classes/workshops TBD. Scholarships Available Upon Request Location for Classes: Christ Lincoln (4325 Sumner Street) Class Fee: $150 per class

Imagination Playground Create your own show!

Instructors: Helena Muller & Alexis Crist Ages 7 - 10 | 7/5 - 7/9 | 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM Performance: Friday, July 9 at 11:00 AM Become A Playwright!

Script Writing & Acting Instructors: Judy Hart & Helena Muller Ages 10+ | 7/5 - 7/9 | 12:30 PM - 3:30 PM Performance: Friday, July 9 at 2:30 PM

SHOWS July 12 - 16 / 19 - 23 Director: Leah Kolar 7/ 12 - 16 & 7/19 - 23 | 9:30 AM - 3:30 PM Performance: Friday, July 23 at 7:00 PM Ages 7 - 15 | Fee: $425

July 26 - 29 Instructors: Leah Kolar & Kevin Witcher 7/ 26 - 29 | 12:30 PM - 3:30 PM Performance: Thursday, July 29 at 5:30 PM Ages 10+ | Fee: $175

Launching Summer Lessons (Packages of 4 or 8 Lessons)

JUNE 7 lment

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Our students are CREATIVE! Everyone can learn to play beautiful music.

We create a safe environment where students discover the creativity inside of them.

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Pass

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Hi! We are Julia and Bethany of Marble Music Studios. We are so excited to share why we love teaching music in Lincoln.

402.413.6355 marblemusicne.com 6201 S. 58th Street, Suite B, Lincoln, NE 68516

Our students are CONFIDENT! Musical skill transcends to all areas of life.

Our students build practice routines and perform with courage.

Our students are COMMUNITY-MINDED! Music is a common language that connects people from all backgrounds. Our students use their music to foster more kindness in the world.

We can’t wait to welcome you into our community!

GUITAR • UKULELE • PIANO • STRINGS • VOICE

!

Enrolling for Summer Camps now

Music Now. Skills for Life.

Ages 0 - 7 Years | Days • Evenings • Weekends

Register now! New students accepted any time

Fall Registration begins June 15!

– Auditions for –

2021-22 Choirs for grades 3-12

Virtual Auditions Appointment required

Of Lincoln with Shawna Gordon

(402) 770-1486 • KindermusikOfLincoln.com 16 |

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Register for a time at:

lincolnboyschoir.org or call 402-499-4446

a window of opportunity awaits you

Register Now! www.truedancelincoln.com

Nebraska Passport 2021

BY G R E TC H E N M . G A R R I S O N

The 2021 Nebraska Passport is set to start again May 1st. While the state is more open than last year, you may want to call ahead to check hours and availability. Here are some of the Nebraska Passport family-friendly locations found in and within a few hours of Lincoln.

Lincoln Children’s Museum | Lincoln Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer | Grand Island Looking west of Lincoln, check out Grand Island’s Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer. Try to go when Railroad Town is open. Down the road, the Kearney Children’s Museum was developed purposefully by many volunteers.

“Our family had a great time exploring the Stuhr Museum. The buildings and grounds are beautiful, and they’ve done a spectacular job making history come alive with their exhibits. My kids enjoyed it as much as my husband and I did!”

–Jeannine Bryant

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The Lincoln Children’s Museum is a longtime favorite for families.

Considering that I have been taking kids there for many years, I can verify that they continue to add to this wonderful museum.

Down the street, check out Screamers Family Restaurant, Home of the Singing Servers. Tuesday night is Kids’ Night at Screamers!

“TreeRush Adventures: Our family loves to explore Fontenelle Forest and last summer we were able to climb high among the trees for a real adrenaline rush!

There was something for the little one and big kids to do! It was perfect.”

– Christine Weeks

Washington County Museum | Fort Calhoun

Lee G. Simmons Wildlife Safari Park | Ashland Between Lincoln and Omaha at the Ashland exit, you can drive through the Lee G. Simmons Wildlife Safari Park. This is a great way to see many animals, including native Nebraska ones, up close and personal. Admission is charged, but groups over 30 can get a discount.

The Washington County Museum at Fort Calhoun is very family-friendly. Touch screens allow kids to learn some Otoe words. Pretend fur trappers will enjoy the trading post area. The dress-up box includes Fort Atkinson soldier uniforms and pioneer dresses. Kids can become old-time bank tellers and deal out money.

Fontenelle Forest | Bellevue I can remember trekking the trails at Fontenelle Forest long ago. This Bellevue location recently added TreeRush Adventures. Visitors, as young as 4, can participate.

According to their website, the tree trails “consist of 100 challenging elements made of rope, cable and wood, and include more than 10 zip lines. The most challenging trails are up to 55 feet above the ground.”

To find out specific locations and hours, or to find out about all of the seventy stops, please visit Nebraskapassport.com.

Looking for even more local places to visit? Check out Gretchen Garrison’s book, “100 Things to Do in Lincoln Before You Die.” She is also the author of “Detour Nebraska: Historic Destinations and Natural Wonders” and “A History Lover’s Guide to Lincoln.”

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Grab a friend, grab a pencil, fill in the blanks, and roll with laughter!

This year, we went on a(n)

I’d always wanted to see Carhenge, a unique replica of the world-famous Stonehenge, only it was constructed of old cars in 1987. What a(n)

oddity we have right (ADJECTIVE)

here in Nebraska.

summer (ADJECTIVE)

vacation. My parents told me to research all the places I Let’s be honest, we were losing steam at this point in the

wanted to visit in Nebraska and make an itinerary. They

trip, so the Archway in Kearney, Nebraska, was a great

were impressed.

place to stop

and learn some Midwestern (ADVERB)

My mom said I could bring one friend, so I decided to bring . We loaded the ( F R I E N D ’S N A M E )

grounds, took a(n)

,

and (NOUN PLURAL)

, and got (NOUN PLURAL)

on the road for our tour of the Nebraska

bike ride on the trail, and (ADJECTIVE)

(CAR- MAKE AND MODEL)

packed our

American history! We had a picnic on the Archway

Life.

went on our

way, Next time we will have to (ADJECTIVE)

do more.

(ADJECTIVE)

The first stop was Crane Trust Nature & Visitor Center. We just missed the whooping crane migration, but the hiking trails were

(ADJECTIVE)

(ADJECTIVE)

.

(ADJECTIVE)

more stop at the Omaha Zoo. Afterall, it is one of the zoos in the country and it is right in our back

and there were so many other birds and wildlife to

Before heading back to Lincoln we decided to make one

(VERB)

yard. Our favorites were touching the stingrays and the new Asian Highlands exhibit.

Next up was Scotts Bluff National Monument, which did not disappoint. This bluff

towers 800 feet (ADVERB)

above the North Platte River. There was much to discover while exploring the 3,000 acres. We even went to the sister monument, Agate Fossil Beds, which were rediscovered in the 1890s by scientists. I love to imagine myself as one of the explorers who settling the American West.

! ( E XC L A M AT I O N )

Noun: person, place, thing, or idea Verb: an action (doesn’t always, but can end in -ing or -s) Adjective: describes a noun

s u m m e r 2021

places right in our “backyard.”

(ADJECTIVE)

After we settled in back at home, I convinced mom and dad to

me to Eugene Mahoney State Park.

(VERB)

That place has everything from horseback riding and hiking to a water park and a ropes course!

through while ( V E R B PA S T T E N S E )

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Speaking of

I hope you

your summer wherever you (VERB)

may travel!

Adverb: describes a verb or how an action is done, i.e.) quickly Preposition: a word that tells us where or when something is in relation to something else. ie) the man on the platform

Day Camps SUMMER DAY CAMPS

Summer Guide

Free Events

CANOEING AT HOLMES June 30, July 28, August 25 *registration required

MUSIC CONCERTS

KZUM Stransky Concerts Municipal Band Hub & Soul

THEATER IN THE PARK

Flatwater Shakespeare Lincoln Community Playhouse

Explore, experience, and enjoy FREE activities in the parks for all ages!

lincoln.ne.gov/party FITLOT OUTDOOR EXERCISE

Free group classes at the new outdoor exercise park in Woods Park to Lincoln in May and June.

MOVIES IN THE PARKS

June 11,18, 25 | July 9, 23 | August 3, 13 Visit website for locations and movie titles.

WATER FITNESS

Group tabata-style for all levels of wellness.

Time & locations of classes vary. Ages 15+

May 24 - August 13, 2021

Weekdays | 7 AM - 5:30 PM | $144/week 402-441-7952 Summer Day Camps are all about creating memories, exploring new adventures, making friends, and celebrating being a kid.

Swimming and field trips are a favorite with these campers!

NATURE CAMPS

Pioneers Park Nature Center, 402-441-7895 Camp Discovery (3-6yrs) is a half day nature camp that campers will have fun while getting dirty!

Explorers campers (6-13yrs) will participants will be outside the majority of each day exploring nature during hikes, pond and creek investigations, and crafts.

Navigators (14-17yrs) one-week camp explores outdoor learning and leadership experiences involving the environment.

ADAPTIVE REC CAMPS

Easterday Recreation Center, 402-441-7877 SumFun Day Camps are great for individuals (5-21yrs) with physical, emotional, and intellectual needs.

Art and Drama Camps are one week camps for individuals with special needs ages 13+.

parks.lincoln.ne.gov Search: Day Camps

parks.lincoln.ne.gov (402) 441-7847 @LNKparksrec @partyintheparks @LNKpublicpools

9 PUBLIC POOLS h s Spla around May 29 - August 15

Aug 16-22 (ext. season - Star City Shores)

Family Swim

June 1 - August 13 M, T, W, F | 6-8PM | $9/family Pool location vary by day.

• • • •

Pool passes & coupon books Swim lessons Swim & Dive League Rent a pool

lincoln.ne.gov/pools

lincolnkidsinc.com | 21

CAMP SONSHINE Day Camp K - 9th Grade Roca, Neb.

CAMP SOLARIS Overnight Camp 3rd - 9th Grade Firth, Neb.

FAMILY EXPERIENCES Private Pool Parties Aerial Park Climbs Fun For The Whole Family!

FIND A PLACE TO BELONG & BECOME AT CAMP SONSHINE

CampSonshineMemories.org | 402.423.8746 | info@CampSonshineMemories.org 22 |

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Go Max! A Q&A with a Local Baseball Player Turned Husker Recruit Max Petersen may not be a household name – yet, but he’s been making a name for himself on the baseball field since the young age of five. Over the years, Max attributes setting goals and working hard to helping him achieve his dream of playing for the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Baseball program starting this fall.

We caught up with the shortstop standout prior to his graduation from Lincoln Southwest High School to ask him a few questions about the journey that led him to being recruited by the Husker Baseball team.

LK: When did you start playing baseball?

Max: I started playing T-Ball when I was five and then moved on to coach pitch a couple years later with a bunch of friends on a team my dad’s business sponsored. When I turned eight, I started playing select baseball for the Lincoln Rebels.

LK: How many games on average would you play in a summer when you were young, and then when you were older?

Max: When I was younger, I would play around 35 games throughout the summer. Now that I’ve gotten older and travel more, I play around 50 games each summer.

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LK: Did you attend baseball camps that you really enjoyed?

Max: When I was younger I went to the Nebraska Baseball camps at Haymarket Park with all the Husker players and I really enjoyed it. It’s where my love for Husker Baseball slowly started to grow.

LK: What are you looking forward to as a Husker?

Max: I am looking forward to staying in Lincoln and being able to play in front of my family and friends. I am also excited about making new friends on the baseball team and all the memories we will make!

I think it will also be cool to travel around the country and compete against teams for a chance to play in Omaha at the College World Series. I grew up going to the CWS in Omaha and have always dreamed about playing in it as a Husker.

LK: What’s one piece of advice you would give to little league baseball players?

Max: Play as many sports as you can, and have fun with each one!

It’s more than a getaway.

It’s where the follow you home.

memories

All across Arbor Day Farm, you’ll find the makings for the perfect summer excursion.

Explore 260 acres with an outdoor hike, play in the trees at the Tree Adventure, ride the ZipKrooz, visit a mansion — you can even spend the night at Lied Lodge.

Learn more and purchase tickets at arbordayfarm.org.

Nebraska City, NE 800-546-5433 arbordayfarm.org

$UMMER FUN IS AT LOST IN FUN! • Ballocity Multi-level • 1000 s of balls!

• Inflatables Try our giant jump pad!

• Playsets Climb, crawl, swing, & slide!

• Laser Maze Secret spy stealth & skills!

• Foam Pit Jump in & party-hardy!

• Arcade Games Massive selection!

• Toddler Zone Playsets, ball pit & more!

• Snack Bar Meals, snacks, & great prices!

• FUNtastic Birthday Parties, too!

GIFT CARDS MAKE GREAT GIFTS!

TEXT LOSTINFUN

f 75¢ SoIZfE ANY

Icee

With coupon. Only one per family/group, per day.

Not valid with other offers.

Expires 08/31/21. LK

15th & Yankee Hill

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TO

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TO RECEIVE MOBILE COUPONS!

25 % f f o F P A O NY

501 P¢ACKoAGEfOfF

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With coupon. Valid for one fun pass only. Not valid on parties or with other offers.

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HOURS M, Th-Sat 10a-8p Sun 12p-7p

DIPPIN' D

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With coupon. Only one per family/group, per day.

Not valid with other offers.

Expires 08/31/21. LK

Book your party online!

LOSTINFUN.COM lincolnkidsinc.com | 25

FLIP, TUMBLE, & ROLL INTO SUMMER 2021!

CHOOSE We offer a Free Trial— reach out to lincolneliteoffice@gmail.com!

lincolnelitegymnastics.com 402.405.2115 • lincolnelitegymnastics.com

JOY!

Now enrolling for summer & summer camps

JOIN THE FUN TODAY!

Swimtastic Swim School – Lincoln | 7911 Pioneers Blvd (402) 489-7946 | swimtastic.com

Lincoln Kidding Jokes from Uncle Bob Q: How do mermaids wash their fins?

A: With Tide

Q: What’s a pirate’s favorite form of exercise?

ymcalincoln.org 26 |

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Q: Why do cows have hooves?

A: Because they lactose (Lack toes)

Register Now for Summer Youth Programs like Swim Lessons, Dance, Gymnastics & more!

A: The Plank

SAFE SWIMMERS, CONFIDENT KIDS

Hop, SCIP, Jump, and Run!

BY K E L LY M A D C H A R O

It’s almost summer, and do you know what that means?

Hop, SCIP, Jump, and Run is almost a month away and we are as excited as ever for this fun event to return to our community!

What We Do In Our Community School Community Intervention & Prevention, or SCIP, is designed to bring together families, school, and the community to support student behavioral and emotional health. We believe that a collaborative working relationship between schools, parents, and the community sets a strong foundation for helping students reach their full potential.

We work with schools throughout Nebraska to provide tools and resources to address these issues that impact children, adolescents and their families. Our website – scipnebraska.com – furthers our mission by providing ways to learn more and get involved.

Hop, SCIP, Jump, and Run Our annual “Hop, SCIP, Jump, and Run” presented by Family Health & Wellness Center, P.C. is set to take place on June 4, 2021, at Antelope Park. All proceeds benefit SCIP, a program of Lincoln Medical Education Partnership. This year’s event will run from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. and will feature a variety of booths and activities sponsored by local nonprofits.

Before the race, participants will have the opportunity to visit sponsor booths to become

eligible for prizes donated by local businesses, such as the Lincoln Escape Room, Runza, Raising Cane’s, Tiger Rock Academy, Cupcakes and More, Eileen’s Cookies, and Papio Fun Park. For every stop made, a card will be stamped. Once the minimum number is reached, the participant will be eligible for a prize entry. In the past, this event has included activities like golf putting, cornhole, bean bag toss, ladder ball, trivia wheel, yoga for kids, frisbee golf, Plinko, sack races, sensory course, basketball hoop, and jump rope. In addition, we hold a one-mile Fun Run and the top three finishers receive prizes.

Register online through June 2, 2021.

Registrations will be accepted at the door.

Registrations received after May 21 are not guaranteed an event t-shirt. There is a $15 registration fee for those who want to do the Fun Run. If you aren’t participating in the run, attendance is free.

There’s no better way to start your summer than with Hop, SCIP, Jump, and Run! Check out our website to learn more about our fundraiser and all that we have to offer for families in our community. See you June 4 with your running shoes on, hair back, and ready to take on all the fun!

Learn more at scipnebraska.com!

lincolnkidsinc.com | 27

Unle a

sh Y our

CONF ID Artist’s ENCE !

A Summer Art Experience that Fosters Confidence & Creativity.

Watch her confidence grow over the summer in this virtual art camp. She’ll participate in 13 weeks of live art classes, 26 self-guided art challenges and meet new friends.

Kick-off party starts May 24th!

Register now at PincurlGirls.com/products/art-camps

LEARN FIRSTHAND

Only

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for Y

memberOUR ship!

Visit lincolnzoo.org for more info • 1222 South 27th St. | 402.475.6741 | Lincolnzoo.org lincolnkidsinc.com | 29

Connect your child with success.

I am very excited for Schedule a free this process. consultation with I had my initial Dr. Emily Willett consult and the today! whole office instilled a confidence in me that this will be a smooth and rewarding affair. I have always had gaps in my teeth but a good bite. Dr. Willett assured me that she will fix my smile while preserving the quality of my bite. I trust her abilities and look forward to the end results.

Sensory processing difficulties can result in frequent meltdowns, picky eating, and motor delays.

Let us help you get ahead of problems. Free 30 minute parent consult!

Call to learn more:

M. Kristen Pfeil

402-413-1356

Occupational Therapist

Sign up for summer camps at

connectpediatrictherapy.com

- LIAM O. OUR TEAM It’s time to schedule school & sports physicals!

Invisalign™ doesn't have to be invisible.

Express yourself with Invisalign™ Stickables!

OFFICE HOURS

Call LPG today!

Mon-Thu 8:00 am-7:00 pm Friday 8:00 am-4:30 pm Saturday 8:00 am-12:00 pm

Kay Anderson, M.D., F.A.A.P. Philip Boucher, M.D., F.A.A.P. Jeffrey David, M.D., F.A.A.P. Jason Davis, M.D., F.A.A.P. Carrie Dell, M.D., F.A.A.P. Heather Dews, M.D., F.A.A.P. Kurstin Friesen, M.D., F.A.A.P. Kate Gogela, M.D., F.A.A.P. Joel Greisen, M.D., F.A.A.P. Amanda Knapp, M.D., F.A.A.P. Shelley Nelson, M.D., F.A.A.P. Erin Schmitz, M.D., F.A.A.P. Valerie Vernon, PA-C Becky Waegli, PA-C Darci Eikmeier, NP Amanda Goddard, NP Mikala Geisert, NP Natasha Hedden, NP

Sunday 12:30 pm-4:30 pm

402-489-8841

4501 S. 70th Street, Suite 110, Lincoln

6825 S. 27th St. #202 Lincoln, NE 68512

402-489-3834

lincoln-orthodontics.com

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Dr. Emily Willett

lincolnpedsgroup.com

Where’s Karla?

A LETTER FROM KARLA GOERL FORMER LINCOLN KIDS PUBLISHER

Hello LK families! Karla here, writing you from the New Mexico/Mexico border. We love living the life of tumbleweeds. Every day is a new adventure! We spent the winter in the Southwest, and although the desert has been lovely and warm, we are ready to trade cacti for pine trees, so we’ve started planning our northward journey. We are especially excited for our plans later this summer when we’ll meet up with my parents in my mom’s old stomping grounds – the Redwoods in northern California.

We have driven our home through some amazing landscapes and try to go hiking every day to explore them. Kenny has experienced his first pueblos and cliff dwellings, misty waterfalls, splashed in the ocean, and sparkling, dark caves (one we even got to swim in!).

We were made for this life on the road. And although some days are hard and filled with lessons galore, we are excited to keep tumbling along to see what’s up next for us.

Sending you all love from afar! karla, bennett, and kenny

CHIROPRACTIC FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY PRE-CONCEPTION • MATERNITY • POSTPARTUM • PEDIATRICS

Let the Good Times Grow

7001 A St, Ste 100 | Lincoln

402.488.6100 Located inside mind.body.balance Molly Tillman , DC

Schedule online!

www.rootedinwellnesschiro.com

Our b ever– iggest yea nation THREE NE r al att W ractio ns!

Daily family-friendly activities (most are free!!)

• Fun at the Farm & James Enterprise kids zones • 20+ types of farm animals & thousands of 4-H/FFA exhibits • Live, free music & entertainment daily • NEW Northwest Express Railroad Train Rides • Exotic Petting Zoo & Pony Rides • Free Watermelon Feed • Three motorsports races with $5 kid tix (free 2 & under)

Get reserved seats & FREE gate tix June 1 at SuperFair.org 32 |

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LOOKING FOR A PEDIATRICIAN? Call 402-465-5600 today! Follow CCH on Facebook for updates & info.

(402) 465-5600 • CompleteChildrensHealth.com

3262 Salt Creek Cir. • 8201 Northwoods Dr. • 4020 Hohensee Dr. • 1336 West A St.

Spot the Difference!

Something’s different with Abe Lincoln— 7 things, in fact!

ANSWERS: 1) Abe Lincoln’s hat! 2) The flag has changed direction. 3) Check the bowtie. 4) The clouds have turned upside down. 5) Abe’s got some new freckles!

6) The Capitol has lost some windows. 7) The moustache.

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5801 S 58th St | 402-475-6666

NebraskaOrthOdONtics.cOm lincolnkidsinc.com | 33

Living as an Immigrant Family

BY J A M I E O ’ D O N N E L L

Just a few weeks after my twenty-fourth birthday, I boarded a plane with my husband of two years and my nearly one-year-old son to move to a foreign country. Now as a mother of four kids ages six to fourteen, I can hardly believe the bravery and naïveté of that young girl. While I was acutely aware of the American family milestones I was leaving behind—themed kid birthday parties, weekends at grandma’s, trick-or-treating—I really had no idea how much my motherhood would be shaped by the next twelve years in Japan.

Learning to Live Like Others We moved in partnership with a non-profit, and a specific aspect of our job description was cultural adaptation and integration.

For the purpose of understanding our Japanese neighbors, we spoke their language and adopted their customs as much as possible: I gave birth in the home of a Japanese midwife, we cooked rice almost daily, and our kids attended Japanese public schools. As a white American in a 98.8% homogeneous culture, I was painfully aware that I would never fully be part of the group, but I channeled my rural midwestern work ethic to give it my best shot.

Though mothers across cultures worry about diet, sleep, and

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education, there are aspects of parenting in Japan that I observed as demonstrably different than those in America. For instance, mothers co-sleep with their young children well into elementary school, which is known to foster “skinship” and a sense of security for both parties. Along these same lines of intimate closeness, family bathing is a regular occurrence, with moms and dads often describing relaxing together in the bath as the only scenario in which their kids will discuss important life events. After entering first grade at age six (and they all do, there is no flexibility around starting ages in Japan), young students begin walking to school by themselves and are given classroom responsibilities, such as cleaning floors each day and serving lunch to their peers.

While there is no way to do justice to these topics in just a few sentences (I could probably write a book just about the fascinating Japanese elementary experience), the point is that each is a distinct example of how American and Japanese sensibilities differ.

And if I wanted to culturally survive my time in Japan, learning how to tolerate, accept, and celebrate ideas that were contrary to how I grew up was a necessity. Our whole family misses the Japanese bathing culture—public baths were a frequent family outing that even our six-year-old talks about with nostalgia. We co-slept with all our babies and still feel slightly uncomfortable if we aren’t able to share walls or be near each other when it’s time to say goodnight. And each of our kids who were able to attend elementary school walked there and home each day alone.

Understanding the Immigrant Family Though the plans had been in the works for over a year, our family’s move to Lincoln in March 2020 just happened to coincide with the beginning of the pandemic. As we’ve spent the past year relearning another culture and language (literally, as one child had never read books in English!), I’ve thought often about the

families around me who are attempting the same. Lincoln has a continued reputation as a refugee resettlement city, with people from Vietnam, Sudan, Myanmar, and more taking the frightening leap to make this new place their home. Whatever our first language or culture, how can we teach kids to value those who are different from them, those whose customs or family practices are unfamiliar?

I believe an important initial step is to first do the work as parents. As someone who was regularly the out-of-place foreigner in the school pick-up line or the PTA meeting, I remember the feelings of inadequacy and apprehension that followed me into those spaces. Let’s educate ourselves about the cultures that are represented in our children’s classrooms or within our neighborhoods.

Next time you’re standing outside the school or waiting for a meeting to begin, be present with the people around you. If the opportunity arises, be brave enough to introduce yourself to someone new.

Just last week, I exchanged a few sentences with a man from Thailand whose son is in my daughter’s grade. With simple English and gestures, we shared about our kids and laughed for a minute or two before going our separate ways; I was reminded that before we learn languages and develop customs, we are simply humans learning to live. If we engage people we consider to be different—whether that’s a cultural distinction or otherwise— we open ourselves to a wealth of human connection. And if we have the eyes to see it and the bravery to approach it, I believe connecting with someone in that way will be greatly rewarding.

lincolnkidsinc.com | 35

Turning a New Pandemic Page It’s hard to believe that we are looking at our second summer of library services in a pandemic. Luckily, five years ago, we put our Summer Reading Challenge online with Beanstack. Thousands of families have accounts that they can access from home, or from any of their mobile devices. Because children like to track their progress- and they like stickers! – we will have paper booklets available, too.

The biggest change for this summer is no big in-person indoor events. Since young children will be the last group to be vaccinated, we decided not to encourage large groups of children from different families to come together in a closed space.

However, our staff and our customers want to be together again so we will offer outdoor Library Learning Times in June and July, either on library property or in parks close by.

Families and daycare groups should bring a blanket or chairs and social distancing will be practiced. The schedule will be posted on our website.

The Summer Reading Challenge will offer the same coupons, perks, and prizes as in past years with a few added bonuses. Readers who log their reading time in Beanstack will earn tickets they can put towards drawings for gift cards for food, entertainment, and fun activities. The more you read, the more tickets you earn.

Learn more about summer reading opportunities at lincolnkidsinc.com!

2021 Summer Reading Challenge Tuesday, June 1 - Saturday, July 31

Beat the summer slide and win prizes!

Reading • Outdoor Activities • Cool Coupons lincolnlibraries.org 36 |

s u m m e r 2021

Spark Summer Camp Keep ‘em busy and stimulate their minds this summer.

Prevent learning loss and keep your kids active and engaged this summer! At Spark we have days packed full of summer camp fun, like STEAM programming to spark curiosity about the world we live in.

Check out our drop-in weeks at SparkSummer.org

Love to write?

Register now for Summer Writing Workshops!

Sponsored by the Nebraska Writing Project { June 7-11 • Space is Limited—Register Early!

$100

{

Youth 7-11 years: 9-10:30am or 11am-12:30pm Youth 12-14 years: 1:30-3pm Family Workshop: 6-7:30pm

& Registration Forms found at: www.unl.edu/newp { Info or Email Sandra at: XLove2WriteX@gmail.com

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

ENROLL

FOR 2021/2022 SCHOOL YEAR I love how each teacher knows each student by name and interacts with them in the hallways and lunch. I love that every student has a smile on their face and truly seem happy to be at school.

Christ Lincoln Schools Faith Lutheran Lincoln Lutheran MS/HS Messiah Lutheran Trinity Lutheran

lutheranschoolsoflincoln.org

lincolnkidsinc.com | 37

Make Hot Dogs Cool This Summer

BY C H A R L E E N E N G B E R G & V I C K I E S U N D Q U I S T C A P I TA L H U M A N E S O C I E T Y

Ready to have some fun with your pet this summer? How about reading out loud to your cat, rabbit, or critters to keep your reading skills polished and spend quality time with your best furry friend. Another idea is to make cool treats for your dog, such as “pupsicles” (popsicles for dogs). If you do, make sure to only use healthy, pet-safe ingredients. For example, be careful with peanut butter; it is a popular ingredient, but may contain xylitol, which can be toxic.

There are many other fun activities for you and your pet during the summer months. Whatever you choose, it is important to educate yourself about how to keep pets safe on hot days.

As an organization that cares for homeless pets, Capital Humane Society has received animals in the summer that were suffering from hot weather-related problems.

Heat Stroke 101 Some issues we have seen include heat stroke and burned paw pads. Heat stroke can be life-threatening. Animals that come into the shelter with signs of heat stroke are immediately assessed by the veterinary staff.

They are cooled down with tepid water (not cold water), a fan is used to help the process, and small drinks of water are given.

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Burned paw pads are treated on a case-bycase basis. If mild, a simple aseptic cleaning is performed. In severe cases, antibiotics and hydrotherapy are required.

Contact your veterinarian immediately if your pet has heat stress symptoms, such as excessive panting or weakness.

Most dangerous heat situations can be prevented by making smart choices: •

Never leave your pet in the car

•

Do not walk your dog during the warmest part of the day

•

Keep him/her off the hot asphalt

•

Keep pets inside, or, if outside, provide shade

•

Always provide plenty of clean and fresh water

4th of July It is also important to keep your pet safe on Independence Day. While July 4th celebrations can be enjoyable for people, they are often very stressful for pets. Pets may get lost because they are afraid of the fireworks and try to run from the noise. Other pets are injured by the fireworks. Your pet will appreciate being protected from these possible dangers and being kept safe inside.

Pets rely on their families to make responsible decisions, so think about safety first and then make your plans for an awesome summer! capitalhumanesociety.org

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402-261-4755 scoopslincoln.com • (531) 500-3363 2840 S 70th St., Suite 6 • 830 N 70th St. • Lincoln, NE

3219 South 13TH St Lincoln, NE 68502

2840 South 70TH St Lincoln, NE 68506

TOYSFROMTHEPASTLINCOLN.COM

Looking for fun, familyfriendly beats to bust a move to this summer?

Follow Lincoln Kids on Spotify and rock out with us!

Scan the QR code below to hear our seasonal mix for Summer 2021.

lincolnkidsinc.com | 39

For a Refreshing Alternative to Daycare:

Thea Child’s View Montessori School 3341 Pioneers Blvd. Lincoln 402-484-8277 Ages 18 months through 6 years Suzuki violin lessons offered for ages 3+!

Certified Professional Montessori Teachers

Kindergarten Program Certified through Nebraska Department of Education

Honoring Dr. Montessori’s Vision of the Child’s Potential Open 7:30 am to 5:30 pm – Part or Full Time Care

Lollie Wraps offer EASY hands-free snuggles. Slip on.

Tie. Go. Light-weight and easy to adjust, for their comfort and yours. Snuggles made simple. lolliewrap.com

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Fingerprints Child Development Center

DIRECTORY Child Care / Education & Wellness Acton Academy (Ages 4 1/2 - 14) We offer a truly different approach to school. Supported by the latest in technology, we move beyond the traditional tools of lectures, homework, highstakes tests, and grades. At Acton Academy Lincoln, students K-8 learn in collaborative classrooms of multi-age learners. Our flexible approach challenges each student with their differentiated learning plan and inspires them through real-world projects.

8400 Cody Drive Lincoln, NE 68512 (402) 858-5151 actonacademylincoln.com

(6w - 10y) Featuring an educational curriculum for all ages in a loving Christian environment!

Open 6:30am-6:00pm. 6 weeks–10 years.

Enrolling now for part-time PreK morning program. M–F from 9:00am–11:30am. Contact for current openings.

7800 Holdrege St. • (402) 467-4503 CapitolCity.org

KidsPark (1 1/2 - 11y) Child care when you need it—days, evenings, and weekends! No reservations; pay by the hour! Flexible preschool programs, day camps, after school programs and more! Happy kids, happy parents!

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

Kelly’s Kids (Highlands) (6w - 6y) Now enrolling for our preschool & prekindergarten classrooms! Open Monday-Friday, 7:00am-6:00pm. Care for ages 6 weeks - 6 years. Developmentally appropriate curriculum in each classroom. Healthy homemade meals & individual classrooms. Title XX & Private pay.

Dimensions Education at 7700 A St.

4901 NW 1st St. • (402) 477-4901 kellyskidsldc.com

(6w - 6y) Quality early education program for children. Summer programs for kids ages 6 weeks–1st grade. Visit DimensionsEd.org for information & online forms or email admin@dimensionsed.org.

Kelly’s Kids (Northeast)

7700 A Street • (402) 476-8304 DimensionsEd.org

Dimensions Education at First Lutheran (6w - 6y) Quality early education program for children. Summer programs for kids ages 6 weeks–1st grade. Visit DimensionsEd.org for information & online forms or email admin@dimensionsed.org.

1551 S. 70th St • (402) 476-8304 DimensionsEd.org

Dimensions Education at First-Plymouth (6w - 6y) Quality early education program for children. Summer programs for kids ages 6 weeks–1st grade. Visit DimensionsEd.org for information & online forms or email admin@dimensionsed.org.

In First-Plymouth Church, 20th & D St. (402) 476-8304 DimensionsEd.org

(6w - 12y) Now enrolling for infants & toddlers classrooms! Open Monday-Friday, 6:30am6:00pm. Care for ages 6 weeks-12 years.

Developmentally appropriate curriculum in each classroom. Healthy homemade meals.

Transportation to/from Norwood Park Elementary. Title XX and Private pay.

4005 N. 70th St • (402) 436-4005 kellyskidsldc.com

Spark Summer Learning (Grades K - 5) A non-stop summer camp with learning and play to keep kiddos growing. We combine summer fun with hands-on learning.

Your children will dive into new discoveries and new pools. Experience STEAM learning by getting their hands dirty with our community partners and create friendships.

Adams Elementary School • 7401 Jacobs Creek Dr. (402) 436-1612 info@sparksummer.org

Trinity Lutheran School (18m - Grades K-5) A fulfilling Christ-based education center. Our Early Childhood Education Program accepts children ages 18 months through Pre-K with extended hours from 7am-5:45pm. Also offering K-5 classes.

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

True Knowledge Preschool (Preschool) A fun & exciting academic approach that will prepare your child for kindergarten & beyond. Small classroom sizes. Engaging teacher. Welcoming environment! 2, 3, & 5-day options. Contact us to learn more!

5445 Red Rock Lane • (402) 570-1252 www.trueknowledgelincoln.com

YMCA Lincoln (Preschool Before / After) Licensed preschool for ages 3-5 that includes swim lessons & gym classes as part of its developmental curriculum.

Before & after school programs for elementary & middle school students at several Community Learning Center sites in schools across Lincoln.

At 4 YMCA locations plus partner CLC schools throughout Lincoln ymcalincoln.org.

Lutheran Schools of Lincoln

Birthday Party Fun

(K - 12) At Lutheran Schools of Lincoln, we offer a K-12 experience grounded in faith formation.

What sets us apart is the size, experience, approach, and level of attention each child receives.

LifeSTROKES

lutheranschoolsoflincoln.org • (402) 467-5404 lutheranschoolsoflincoln@gmail.com

Rooted in Wellness Chiropractic (0 - 18y) We are passionate and highly specialized in prenatal and pediatric chiropractic services. Our goals are to empower and educate families about health and to be a guide through the challenges in life. Dr. Molly is also certified in the Webster technique, which is used to help women during pregnancy.

7001 A St. Ste. 100 • (402) 488-6100 rootedinwellnesschiro.com

Party at the Pool! Host your child’s birthday party at LifeSTROKES for a splashing good time! $250 includes 2 hours of private facility use for up to 25 children & their chaperones—pool toys, food & refreshments, decorations, and safety vests welcome! Offered Friday evenings & Saturday afternoons.

1601 Normandy Ct. • (402) 421-SWIM (7946) Lifestrokes.com

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

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

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Birthday Party Fun (CONT’D)

Lost In Fun! Your outdoor playland...indoors! Fun for all ages!

Private party rooms, playsets, foam pit, inflatable jumpers, fun maze, laser maze, video games, jumping pillow, Ballocity, and snack area with yummy food & 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

LUX Center for the Arts Real art taught by real artists! Guests can each build and paint their own clay mugs, bowls, or plates. Other popular projects include canvas painting, fused glass suncatchers, and custom projects. 2 hour parties for up to 6 participants are just $120! Pottery wheel parties are available for kids ages 10+.

2601 N. 48th St. • (402) 466-8692 LUXcenter.org/PARTY

Morrill Hall Be a paleontologist, discover some of the most bizarre creatures to inhabit Earth, or go on a treasure hunt exploring the museum’s rocks & minerals! Guided museum activities including a hands-on fossil dig in the Marx Discovery Center & gifts for every child! Six party themes to choose from. Private party room!

Morrill Hall on the UNL Campus (402) 472-2637 museum.unl.edu/birthdays

YMCA: Cooper, Fallbrook, & Copple Family Have your next birthday party at the Y! The YMCA offers a variety of birthday party options to fit any child. Join us to swim or have one of our themed birthday parties. Parties start at $75. Call or visit YMCALincoln.org.

Cooper: 6767 S. 14th St. (402) 323-6400 Fallbrook: 700 Penrose Dr. (402) 323-6444 Copple Family: 8700 Yankee Woods (402) 327-0037

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

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

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Blue Raven Music Studios

YMCA of Lincoln

Guitar, strings, voice & more! Guitar, drums, bass, piano, dobro, lap steel, mandolin, banjo, violin, viola, ukulele, group bands, & voice instruction for all ages. Fun, positive learning environment.

Reduced rate guitar & ukulele classes for kids ages 5-9.

Swim, Dance, Gymnastics, Youth Gym & More!

With a focus on developing the potential of kids, the YMCA offers youth programs in a small group setting. Instructors work side-by-side with each child to teach safety and to develop their skills while keeping them moving, healthy, and active.

3835 S. 48th St. (by Union College) (402) 486-0599 BlueRavenMusic.com

Cooper, Copple, Fallbrook,& Northeast YMCAs ymcalincoln.org/youthprograms

Chase the Spirit of Dance Established in 2017, Chase the Spirit of Dance provides Lincoln’s premier dance instruction. All of our dance instructors are personable and fully certified to teach dance at all levels. Whether your focus is technique, flexibility or you’re just looking for a new way to work out, you can find it here. We offer ballet, jazz, hip-hop, lyrical, clogging, tap, and so much more to students ages 3 - 93! chasethespirit.dance info@chasethespirit.com (402) 904-4091

LifeSTROKES Equipping all generations with lifesaving swimming skills. Enroll anytime! Professional instruction & fun for ages 6 months to adult.

30-minute morning & evening classes once weekly, M - Th. Register online, call, or stop by!

1601 Normandy Ct. • (402) 421-SWIM (7946) Lifestrokes.com

Lincoln Music Teachers Association Find a Music Teacher! Access www.LMTA.info for a Teacher Directory. Low-cost lessons available.

LMTA.info

LUX Center for the Arts Private lessons, small group classes, family workshops, and spring/summer camps for ages 5+. All lessons are taught by professional teaching artists. Popular topics include clay, pottery wheel, painting, drawing, STEAM, metals, glass, and more! We are limiting classes to 6 students so we can physically distance and masks are required by students and staff at all times.

2601 N. 48th St. • (402) 466-8692 luxcenter.org/programs

Makit Takit • Lincoln’s Craft Studio Hands-on fun! Several arts & crafts to choose from, craft in-store, or check out our many takehome options! You won’t want to miss out on our SPLATTER ROOM! Reserve your space online.

4750 Normal Blvd.

(402) 483-4232 MakitTakit.com Christy@MakitTakit.com

Little Ones’ Activities LifeSTROKES Infant & toddler swimming lessons! Grab a friend & jump in with your little one, 6–24 months, in a parent/tot class and be a part of the beginning of their swim journey. Independent classes start as early as age 2. Join anytime! 30-min classes held once weekly, M–Th. Call, click, or stop by to register!

1601 Normandy Ct. • (402) 421-SWIM (7946) Lifestrokes.com

Pop-In Storytime Morrill Hall CURRENTLY OFFERING A SERIES OF VIRTUAL EVENTS, including virtual field trips, Investigate Saturdays, camps and more. Find all the info on the website or Facebook page.

Morrill Hall on the UNL Campus (402) 472-2637 museum.unl.edu/storytime

YMCA of Lincoln The YMCA offers parent-with-child water discovery classes, as well as swim lessons that are designed to teach children, ages one to three years old, potentially life-saving techniques to keep them safe in and around water.

Cooper, Copple, Fallbrook, & Northeast YMCAs ymcalincoln.org/youthprograms

Experts in women’s care.

And kindness.

That’s what women can expect from CHI Health.

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

Our experienced OB-GYNs and midwives care for women of all ages, from routine exams to pregnancy care to menopause and beyond.

Women’s Health 7001 A Street, Ste 200 | 402-484-4081 Women’s Health Midwifery 8020 O St | 402-488-6370

CHIhealth.com/WomensHealth

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OUR MISSION

To know, love, and serve God.

A Christ-centered learning environment, featuring a diverse student population and smaller class sizes.

Blessed Sacrament Catholic School fosters spiritual and intellectual growth in our students. We offer a flexible, affordable Pre-Kindergarten program, and a rigorous, fully-accredited, faith-based K-8 curriculum. Reach out today.

Blessed Sacrament Catholic School 1720 Lake Street, Lincoln, NE 68502 blessed-sacrament-school.com

Schedule a tour! Come visit our school.

Call 402.476.6202 to set up a time that fits your busy schedule.