Lincoln Kids Magazine Winter 2021

Winter 2021 | Year 28, Issue 112

enguin proj p ec the tt

at’s up, doc? get to kno h w l in w coln

ge p. 18 r sta nte ce es ak

FREE!

COVER SPONSOR

or th o d

ontics’ dr. e m

l et t ily w il

p.2

Now Enr olli n g !

Toddlers, infants, and expecting parents

Head St art is FREE for eligib le families !

Help your child prepare for school success with: • Family support and coaching at home, or • Classroom education at our early education center

Call (402) 875-9328 to GET STARTED!

FROM THE PUBLISHER During my parenting years, I’ve gone through many phases, and asked a lot of questions:

Winter 2O21

Should I stay home?

Should I work?

Should I try to run my own business?

Should I eat all the boxes of Girl Scout Cookies, now or later?!

There are SO many decisions to make.

When Dawson was born in 2003, I was convinced that I needed to be a stay-at-home mom.

That lasted a whopping six months and then I was ready to work. I accepted a part-time role in a marketing department, not having any idea what I was getting myself into or how this decision would change the course of my life.

I stayed in that role through the birth of Ellie and the pregnancy of the twins. I loved the flexibility that my boss offered me, and her generosity gave me more time with my kids when they were little.

In 2007, we moved back to Lincoln and the twins were born. I had four kids, four and under, and I knew I wouldn’t be able to afford daycare for them. I had to figure out a way to work from home and to be a stay-at-home mom. It was tough. I mainly remember nursing babies, making meals, watching trashy TV, and trying to get my professional job done while everyone else slept.

A year after the twins were born, I had a request to do marketing consulting. Getting that sidehustle allowed me to hire someone to come in and help me with my four little ones. And man, did I need it. I was so blessed by those women that worked with me during the early years — specifically Lindsey, Kelsey, and Mackenzie. They were organized, way better at laundry than me, and so good with my kids.

In 2009, I started Eleanor Creative, a branding and marketing agency here in Lincoln. I hired Mackenzie full-time to help me with my kids and manage my home. I had the flexibility to attend their events, volunteer in their classrooms, and take time off with them when they needed it.

Through all of those transitions with my work, I know it impacted me as a mother — for the better. My kids have seen my success and my struggles. They have met so many interesting people along the way and it has opened their eyes to owning a business, and caring for employees and clients - all while ensuring that they are well-rounded, kind, and compassionate humans.

THE LK TEAM

I write this to encourage you that there are so many ways to raise your kids and to see your goals as a parent come to life. There will be a lot of people out there telling you there is only one way to parent well, but I’d like to encourage you to think differently. It might take a little creativity and a lot of grit but it’s your story, and you should be the author of it.

And yes, yes, yes, there will be plenty of failures along the way. But don’t let that keep you down. Get up, chin up, and get back to going after what’s right for you and your family.

Until next time,

Christine Weeks, Owner / Publisher

d |

wi n t e r 2021

What’s Inside?

What’s Up, Doc? Emily Willett, DDS of Lincoln Orthodontics

2

Know Your Animal Tracks

Making Gift Wrapping Greener

4

7

Snow Crafts

Teacher Feature Brittney HodgesBolkovac, M.Ed.

Stir Up Some Holiday Charm

14

16

10

On With the Show!

Alexis Verzal Shines in the Penguin Project

18

‘Tis the Season to Recycle Right

Walk on the Wild Side

Turn a New Family Page

Dancing Through Diagnosis

21

26

Taylor Sharpe Dances Through Life

Lincoln Kids Directory

Stay Tuned for Our Next Edition!

January 2021

31

lincolnkidsinc.com | 1

What’s Up, Doc? Get to know one of our favorites! Dr. Emily Willett – Orthodontist, Mother, Business Owner, and an All-Around Exceptional Human Meet Dr. Emily Willett of Lincoln Orthodontics Lincoln Orthodontics is a place where passion greets patients with a smile, straight talk, and real results. Dr. Willett is one-of-a-kind and she has created a very exceptional place to come get orthodontic treatment. Let’s have some straight-talk with the Doctor herself.

Why did you become an orthodontist?

When I was growing up, I really admired my orthodontist. He cared about me as a person and I was able to see great results in my smile from his orthodontic care.

Witnessing those results first-hand and seeing how he truly cared for his patients definitely impacted my life.

Seeing his work made me intrigued about a career in healthcare. I thought about all of my options and I kept being drawn back to orthodontics because I would get to work with people of all ages who would also have a generally happy experience.

2 |

wi n t e r 2021

Was being an Orthodontist your first job?

Well, like a lot of kids, growing up I had a paper route, I was a lifeguard, and I was a counselor at a summer camp, but I guess technically dentistry was my first real job. I was a general dentist during my orthodontics residency. I did this because I thought it would eventually make me a better orthodontist. I wanted to know what a day in their shoes would be like, so I could connect and communicate well with future patients and referring dentists. It was always about the end goal.

One thing I’m passionate about is making sure everyone has access to excellent dental care. I have an active dental license in South Dakota and I go back there to provide dental services to people living on the reservations.

Did you always know you wanted to have your own practice?

In dentistry and orthodontics, you are a healthcare professional, but you can also be a small business owner.

When I met Dr. Paula Harre, who was a very successful business owner, I was inspired to follow in her footsteps. She has been an incredible role model for me and still steps in to help, when my babies are born. In fact, my patients will be able to see Dr. Harre this March when we welcome our third child into our family.

What do you love about the kids you work with?

3. We offer braces and Invisalign for the same price!

Building relationships with my patients and their families is a blessing. I especially like to find out what makes them tick and to see how I can positively influence and ask them questions about their lives. I try to learn things about them and follow up with them at the next visit.

4. We also see real people with real budgets. We have options so people can pay over time.

What is unique about your practice?

Is there anything else exciting happening in your office that we should know about?

1.

Our patient experience is like no other, and our honest, hardworking team loves our patients. That’s why we created a patient experience that is straight-up fun. But really, we wanted to spoil and thank our patients in a way that reflects us. We partner with businesses that sell smoothies, ice cream, and fun experiences to ease the pain of braces. The idea behind this experience is to show our patients that they get a fun experience with real results, and although it might hurt, we try to ease some of the pain because we care.

5. We love people of all ages. Braces are not just for kids and we love our adult patients just as much as the young ones.

We are well on our way to having seven babies in seven months among our team!

If you want real people, real fun, and real results, come to Lincoln Orthodontics for a free consult.

We can’t wait to meet you.

6825 S 27th St # 202, Lincoln, NE 68512 (402) 489-8841 lincoln-orthodontics.com

2. We work really hard to support our patients so they can get their treatment in the least amount of time with the best results.

lincolnkidsinc.com | 3

Walk on the Wild Side

BY D R . J U L I E T H O M A S

You might be surprised, but you likely have wild visitors in your neighborhood. These visitors won’t knock on your door, but they will leave clues to let you know they passed by. While some animals hibernate (sleep through the winter) or migrate (move to a warmer place), wild animals who choose to stay in Lincoln through the winter months expect they will be able to find the food, water, and shelter they need to survive. Seeing and identifying these wild visitors is all about knowing a bit about what to look for and where to find it.

No matter how cold it gets, your wild friends will continue to seek food energy to help them stay warm. Fresh fallen snow provides the perfect opportunity for you to find wild visitor tracks.

Wild animal tracks are easiest to spot in freshfallen snow. The illustration here provides tips and tricks for “reading” winter animal tracks in your neighborhood.

Begin by thinking about the kinds of sheltered places in your area that would help an animal stay warm. These might include tree-trunk cavities, brushy-ground spaces, and evergreen shrubs or trees. Animals will seek these places for protection from wind and cold, especially through the night. Some sheltered places are like a “bed and breakfast” in that the plant also provides an abundance of berries or seeds.

You will likely spot a variety of birds such as Blue Jays, Sparrows, Chickadees, and Cardinals. These wild ones seek ways to keep from freezing – bulking up on food when a storm is coming or roosting together to pool their body heat. Cottontail Rabbits find warmth in hollow logs, rock piles, and brush piles. Red Foxes develop a thick winter coat, so their cold-weather behavior isn’t much different from any other season. Raccoons seek sheltered places, like hollow trees or abandoned burrows.

Smaller mammals like Voles, Mice, and Shrews dig tunnels under the snow to allow safe travel between underground burrows and food sources without being seen by predators. While these smaller mammals may sleep through cold winter weeks, they will leave their dens and burrows on warm days in search of food.

4 |

wi n t e r 2021

About the Author Dr. Julie Thomas is a recently-retired Science Education Professor from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. In her current writing efforts, Thomas intends to encourage kids to engage in some creative nature experiences and guide understanding about their important role in helping young adults connect with the natural world.

Have Questions About Your Child’s Development?

If you’re concerned about how your child plays, learns, speaks, acts or moves, contact us today.

Call 2-1-1 and ask for “Help Me Grow” or visit helpmegrownebraska.org

Connecting health, education & families in early childhood

Specially-trained children’s stylists All the latest styles for your family Fun play area & movies

Adult haircuts & facial waxing, too!

Specializing in squirmers!

M-F 10am-6pm Sat 9am-2pm

(402) 484-7866 | 237 S. 70th Street, Ste 106

FORSYTH INSURANCE AGENCY INC 1265 S Cotner Blvd Ste 21 Lincoln, NE 68510 Phone 402-483-7861

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

7811 Pioneers Blvd. #108 getmaize.com

lincolnkidsinc.com | 5

CONNECT THE DOTS + COLOR 6

5

7

8

9

10

11

4

3

2

1

12

SAFETY TIP // Do not touch a downed power line.

Always assume downed power lines are energized and dangerous. Call 911 immediately if you come across a downed line.

6 |

wi n t e r 2021

Discover more tips and activities at LES.com/kids.

‘ Tis the Season to Recycle Right Recycling — it’s a process.

It may be a little bit confusing at first, but just because something is made of paper or plastic does not mean it can be recycled. Willa DiCostanzo, the Waste Diversion Coordinator for the City of Lincoln, wants citizens to give everyone involved in the recycling process the gift of putting the right items into your recycling bin this holiday season!

Did you know that everything you put in a recycling bin is loaded on a conveyor belt and is initially separated by hand at a recycling processing center? Staff review the material on the fast-moving conveyor belt and remove the non-recyclable material they see — such as plastic film, dirty containers, bagged recyclable items, and tangling items (absolutely no hoses, holiday lights, broken toys, or ribbons and bows).

There is so much more to the recycling process than one might think.

What About the Wrap?

Holiday gift wrapping can be a fun tradition; however, it is important to think about where that wrapping goes after its one-time use.

While some wrapping paper can be recycled, most wrapping paper cannot. To help you navigate this holiday cheer, here is a list for you: CANNOT BE RECYCLED Sparkles, Glitter, Sequins, Foil, Artificially Textured Paper Sticky Gift Labels Plastic Paper Leftover Tape Ribbons or Bows

CAN BE RECYCLED ✓ Easy-to-Tear, Non-Glitter Wrapping Paper ✓ Non-Laminated Wrapping Paper ✓ Kraft Paper

If you’re still unsure about what tissue or wrapping paper is recyclable, there’s an easy and fast way to check. You can do a “scrunch test” by squeezing the paper into a ball. If it keeps the ball shape and follows the other rules above, then it can be recycled. If it springs back to a flat form, then it can’t be recycled.

A Gift to the Earth With all the holiday buzz let’s not forget the principle of reducing and reusing to minimize our impact on the environment. The glitz and the glitter are pretty but you can start a new holiday tradition by reducing the need to buy new paper and instead reuse newspapers, maps, old posters, fabric, gift boxes, and children’s school artwork as wrapping paper. Even decorating Kraft paper is a way to get everyone excited about the gift-giving season.

For questions about what is and is not recyclable, visit recycle.lincoln.ne.gov search the “What Bin Does It Go In?” tool to help you navigate reducing waste this holiday season.

You can also call the City of Lincoln Recycling Hotline at (402) 441-8215.

lincolnkidsinc.com | 7

Giving Green HE

RE

Cut along solid lines

Looking for a gift that is low-impact on the environment and high-impact on your loved ones? Look no further. Cut out this little box along the solid lines, then fold along the dashed lines, and place glue on the flaps to make something special that can be recycled.

GL

UE

I ST

CK

Fold along dashed lines

GL UE ST IC K HE GL

UE

I ST

CK

HE

RE

RE Fold along the fold lines first, then apply glue from a glue stick to the darker “Glue Stick Here” flaps.

Then, press the box together and wait to dry!

GL UE ST IC K HE RE

What I love most about you is...

A memory of ours I will always treasure is...

In the future, I hope we...

Fill your box with these messages, and give a gift that’s meaningful and heartfelt!

Gift Art Come explore + shop our Annual Holiday Show: Gifted!

November 5-December 31, 2021

Gift a unique experience!

Art classes make great gifts for your loved ones!

Sign your loved one up for an art class or private lesson and see their creativity come to life! Or take a class together and make lasting memories while getting messy. We offer youth and adult art classes, private lessons, and seasonal workshops in pottery, painting, drawing, metalsmithing, printmaking & more!

Browse upcoming programs and register online at

www.luxcenter.org/programs.

Shop artist-made gifts!

Winter Workshops open now for registration!

Support artists by gifting something that’s truly one-of-a-kind!

The LUX Gallery Shop has something for everyone on your list – pottery, holiday ornaments, jewelry, textiles, paintings, prints, and toys for young creative minds – all created by hand with a unique story to tell. Your purchase at the LUX will directly support working artists and our ability to provide accessible art experiences for our community. Shop art online at

www.luxcenter.org/shop.

Pssst...this winter weather has us thinking ahead to summer days, so we decided to drop our Summer Camp schedule a little early this year! Camp Registration will open online December 1st, 2021 so be sure to mark your calendars now! Since our camps sold out last year, we encourage you to register as soon as possible to secure your child’s spot!

Register online at www.luxcenter.org/camps or call (402)-466-8692.

2601 N 48th St Lincoln, NE 68504 (402)466-8692 www. luxcenter.org

GET YOUR FLU SHOT NOW 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.

lincolnkidsinc.com | 9

How to Make Snow Can’t wait for snowfall? Take time to chill out and make your own snowstorm at home with this recipe for winter wonder.

Materials • • • • • • •

A jar or similar container Baby oil White paint Water Iridescent glitter Alka Seltzer Blue food coloring (optional)

1.

Begin by filling the jar that you are using 3/4 of the way with baby oil.

The most snow ever recorded in one snowfall in the U.S. was 189 inches. That’s almost 16 feet!

Snow Ice Cream

3. Stir until the paint is dissolved.

• • • •

8 cups freshly fallen snow 10 oz sweetened condensed milk 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Sprinkles

4. Once mixed pour the “white water” into the jar, leaving a touch of room at the top.

1.

Layout a bowl to catch freshly fallen snow.

2. Combine one teaspoon of white paint with one cup of very warm water.

5. Have kids add glitter and food coloring if desired. Then, wait for the glitter and water to settle at the bottom of the jar.

2. Scoop 4 cups into a bowl and pour the sweetened condensed milk on top.

Making the Snow Storm

3. Add in a teaspoon of vanilla extract and mix well.

Break an Alka-Seltzer tablet into pieces.

Then, have kids drop the pieces into the jar and watch what happens— the water will immediately begin to swirl and bubble in the oil, creating a dancing snow storm!

We got this great snow storm experiment from growingajeweledrose.com.

10 |

Did you know?

wi n t e r 2021

4. Your ice cream will probably look soupy.

Mix in another 4 cups of fresh snow and scoop out with an ice cream scoop.

Serve with sprinkles or your favorite toppings.

Thanks to littlebinsforlittlehands.com for this recipe!

Give the gift of membership

Exploration

and FUn

Science Family memberships start at just $69/year museum.unl.edu/membership

Winter in the Parks ! n u f h c

SLEDDING Pioneers Park, Holmes Lake Park, Arnold Heights

m

ICE SKATING* Oak Lake, Holmes Lake Park

Sno

w

parks.lincoln.ne.gov

u

*Signage will be posted at each park when it is safe to skate.

NATURE HIKES Pioneers Park Nature Center

Call (402) 441-7895 or visit website for program information.

Kids Day Off

Kids Days Off are fun filled days held at our centers during the school year when LPS is not in session.

Programs at various locations.

Grow with Preschool It’s more than a daycare.

Preschool prepares children for primary school and helps to inspire a love of learning that lasts a lifetime.

Calvert Recreation Center, 402-441-8480 Pioneers Park Nature Center, 402-441-7895

lincolnkidsinc.com | 11

Villarreal Nebraska Academy Youth Soccer

Registration is Open!

Winter1 Intro Classes Start Nov 1—Dec 18 Winter2 Intro Classes Start Jan 10—Feb 26

Ages 3-5 & 5-7 Choose: Monday, Tuesday, Friday, Saturday

PLAN NOW for Spring Soccer READY FOR A TEAM K, 1st, 2nd, 3rd Grade Teams

VILLARREAL NEBRASKA ACADEMY 333 Speedway Circle, Suite 4 Call or email to join a team! admin@villarrealnebraska.com 402-853-7100

Info & Registration at villarrealnebraska.com Professionally directed soccer programs of Villarreal C.F.

Up Your Skills Learn more than kicking and punching.

Our Taekwondo program focuses on the tenets of Taekwondo– courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control and indomitable spirit to build character and increase confidence and focus.

Evening and Saturday morning classes Little Dragons (ages 4–6) Youth & Adult (ages 7+) Visit SwansonsMartialArts.com and click Get Started.

4747 Old Cheney Rd, Suite B 402-405-5964 contact@SwansonsMartialArts.com

12 |

wi n t e r 2021

ONE SIZE DOES NOT FIT ALL

CHOOSE ADVANCED MEDICAL IMAGING. All radiologists are not created equal.

Dr. Sandra Machado is the only sub-specialized pediatric radiologist practicing in Lincoln.

AMI has taken the Image Gently® pledge.

The mission of the Image Gently® Alliance is to improve safe and effective imaging care of children worldwide.

Trust the best.

CALL 402.484.6677 to schedule your appointment

7601 PIONEERS BLVD. LINCOLN NE, 68506 AMImaging.com

048 LNK kids ad H.indd 1

10/14/21 10:56 AM

We make healthy eating easy.

Our products are triple tested to ensure they are 100% gluten free. Epicure is a peanut-free facility. We are sugar and sodium conscious.

You won’t find things like high fructose corn syrup, preservatives, artificial colours, and gluten in any of our products.

Find out how we can inspire you to eat healthy at

CandaceJindra.Epicure.com

lincolnkidsinc.com | 13

Teacher Feature A Conversation with Brittney Hodges-Bolkovac, M.Ed. Note from the Editor: Here at Lincoln Kids we love to celebrate teachers! In this issue, we are celebrating Brittney Hodges-Bolkovac. You’ll find out just why she is so inspiring in our Teacher Feature Q & A. Wishing Won’t Work— While Working Will This is the motto Brittney Hodges-Bolkovac, M.Ed., teacher at Dawes Middle School, has lived by since the 8th grade, and uses it with her students. She will often ask her students, “Are you wishing or are you working?”

Brittney was born and raised in Lincoln and is a product of Lincoln Public Schools (LPS) – attending Huntington Elementary, Culler Middle School, Lefler Middle School, and Lincoln High School. Her post secondary education includes:

• Master of Arts in Teaching, College of St. Mary • Master of Education in Administration, Concordia University

LK: What are your responsibilities at Dawes Middle School?

• Working on Doctorate of Education / Educational Specialist, Doane University

I wear many hats! I am the only World Language teacher and teach Spanish. I’m the Athletic Director, Community Cultural Liaison, Equity cochair, and oversee Student Council. It gives me more opportunities to engage with students. I have rapport with them and they respond to me differently because they know and trust me. I’m doing what I love.

LK: Brittney, can you describe your path to teaching?

I went to college for broadcast journalism to be a news anchor as I saw a need for more women of color to be on TV. Instead, I ended up graduating with a BA in Communication Studies.

After a brief stint at Verizon, I worked as a youth

wi n t e r 2021

Becoming a teacher seemed like the perfect fit. I enrolled in a fast-track program to get my MA in Teaching and have been involved in education ever since. I feel I’m making more of an impact with kids.

My first teaching experience was at a parochial school prior to actually graduating! The school needed someone to teach Spanish. My professor told them about me and that I hadn’t done any student teaching yet. They said, “We’ll take her!” I worked there until I graduated, then joined LPS and started teaching at Dawes Middle School.

• Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies, University of Nebraska-Lincoln

14 |

tracker. I enjoyed interacting with kids but wanted to be the person they looked forward to seeing. I wanted a chance to intervene before they got involved in the system.

Additionally, two-to-three periods a day I get administrative experience as my goal is to be a principal or superintendent.

LK: What do you like most about teaching?

It’s rewarding to see where kids start and end the school year. I explain to my students on Day One that they will be reading an entire Spanish novel by the end of the school year.

Their eyes get big, and you can see the “no way” expression on their faces. Gradually, they start picking things up and eventually they are able to communicate in another language!

Teachers only know so much about what’s going on with your child and they may not catch things you, as a parent, will.

I also believe it’s very important to teach your child how to advocate for themselves. Teach them to not wait until they get home to say something because then they have missed an opportunity.

The relationships I make with my students are also very rewarding and crucial to the learning process.

LK: What challenges do you face as a teacher?

At the Lighthouse Gala recently, one of the speakers, J.B. Milliken said, “Talent is universal, opportunity is not.” This really resonated with me. Society often has preconceived notions about our students at Dawes. Working at a Title One school people automatically think the students’ capabilities are going to be limited, not realizing Dawes has some of the brightest students in Lincoln. The challenge is helping people understand that our students don’t want pity, they don’t want lower expectations; they want the same opportunities as more affluent students in order to show their skills.

LK: Describe your teaching style?

I’m a realist, and I’m very engaging. I use humor but my students know that I have high expectations of them because I believe in their potential and want them to be successful in class and in the community.

LK: What advice would you give to parents whose child is struggling in school?

It’s important for parents, teachers, and the school to be partners. Don’t be afraid to advocate for your child by reaching out to your child’s teacher if you have questions or concerns. Be real with them in a tactful manner.

lincolnkidsinc.com | 15

Stir Up Some Holiday Charm Happy Holidays are clearly in order for you, our holly and jolly Lincoln Kids Readers!

We know that this holiday season can be difficult to choose which holiday recipe you can trust.

Whether you are baking for an event with family and friends, or baking some cookies with your kiddos on a Friday night, here are some of our favorite recipes that are kid-tested and parent-approved!

OK Mom’s 5-Minute “Oh Fudge!” Fudge

•

rolls of Lifesavers (1 per train)

•

packs of gum (1 per train)

•

Starlight Mints (4 per train)

•

individually-wrapped Rolos (1 per train)

•

bell-shaped chocolates- Butterfingers and Nestlé Crunches both come in bells (1 per train)

•

hot glue sticks

•

thin ribbon or twine, optional

•

hot glue gun or large glue dots

Instructions 1.

Hot glue a Lifesaver roll to a pack of gum.

Think DoubleMint or Big Red brand.

•

12 oz. chocolate chips, or whatever chocolate you have that melts

•

1 cup butterscotch chips, dried cranberries, or small marshmallows work great too

2. Hot glue 4 Starlight Mints to the pack of gum to make wheels.

•

1/2 cup chopped nuts (if your kids are not ALLERGIC and/or will eat them)

3. Glue the Rolo upside-down to the top of one end of the roll of Lifesavers.

•

14 oz. can of Sweetened Condensed milk

•

1 teaspoon vanilla

4. Glue the chocolate bell upside-down to the opposite end of the roll of Lifesavers.

Instructions 1.

Heat chocolate chips, condensed milk and vanilla in a pot over medium heat.

2. Stir until melted.

3. (Optional) Add 1/2 cup chopped nuts and marshmallows or butterscotch.

4. Pour into 13 x 9 x 2 pan. Or, if you are super motivated and want to make a wreath, cover a soup can with foil and place in center of a round cake pan.

5. Chill completely in refrigerator. (For a wreath, decorate with red and green candies when mostly cooled).

6. Serve with a smile and when people ask, tell them these take all day to make.

16 |

DIY Holiday Candy Trains

wi n t e r 2021

5. If you want to hang your Christmas candy trains on the tree (or attach them to presents), hot glue a small loop of ribbon onto the top of each candy train right between the Rolo and the bell to make them ornaments.

We hope that these fun, easy, and innovative ideas will make your holiday season all the more merrier!

Tag @lincolnkids if you make one of these hollyjolly creations!

lincolnkidsinc.com | 17

On With the Show!

For Alexis Verzal, All the World’s a Stage— and the Stage Has Never Been More Accessible There is something about being on stage that is so magical. For those who are in love with being on stage – it changes their life forever.

That is exactly what happened to Alexis Verzal, a 14-year-old girl who has been acting since she was four. After surviving a traumatic brain injury, she has risen above to become a lead actress in almost every role she has been cast in the past nine years through the Lincoln Community Playhouse and the Penguin Project.

Before we talk about the incredible human being that is Alexis Verzal, we wanted to let you, our readers know about the sheer impact that the Penguin Project has had on our community and the country.

The Penguin Project is the creation of Dr. Andrew Morgan, an Illinois pediatrician and community theater lover. The Penguin Project gets its name from penguins, birds who cannot fly. But the other traits of penguins fit well with the premise of Morgan’s program. “Penguins are extremely playful and curious and work well together,” he wrote. To this day, there are currently 43 Penguin Project chapters in the country, and the Lincoln chapter was the fifth one to reach over 100 members.

This community theater program invites children with special needs to sing, dance, and act under the theater spotlight on a professional stage in front of a live audience. Youth with special needs are paired with peer mentors, typically kids their own age who do not have disabilities. The mentors work in the shadows, offering cues for lines, gentle stage direction,

18 |

wi n t e r 2021

and stagehand help.

They also back up choral numbers.

“These mentors are truly incredible,” says Tiffany Verzal, Alexis’s mom. “They are there for every practice and they learn every line and stage direction. When it comes time for the performance, they stand behind the actors in case anything were to go wrong. That takes heart and dedication; it makes me tear up when you see it.”

For Alexis, her love of theatre started even before the Penguin Project. Her dedication to her craft started when she was little. Before school, she would select a character— typically a princess— to embody for the day. Alexis, a blossoming student of Method acting, would fully-immerse herself in that character for the whole day, only answering to her character’s name and adding theatrical flair to activities.

Her parents then decided that they had to get this girl in costume and on stage!

Alexis’s first show at four-years-old was with the Youth Actors Academy of Lincoln, and the show was Winnie the Pooh.

After that show, she has been in theatre productions every year ever since. Some of her roles have included: •

“Molly” in Annie

•

“Flotsam” in The Little Mermaid

•

“Chip” in Beauty and the Beast

•

“Sharpay” in High School Musical

•

“Amaryllis” in The Music Man

•

“Glinda” in The Wizard of Oz

When we asked Alexis about her favorite memories and why she loves the Penguin Project, she said that one of the most powerful

and emotional moments she had experienced on stage was her role as Chip in Beauty and the Beast. For those of you who are not familiar with Beauty and the Beast, at the end of the show when the curse is broken, Chip is turned back into a human after being cursed into a teacup.

Alexis, who spends much time in her wheelchair, walked on stage for the first time when she turned into a girl.

Instantaneously, there was a standing ovation and tears were flowing from nearly every audience member. That is just a glimpse of the magic that is created at every Penguin Project show.

We have no doubt in our minds that Alexis will continue to bless the stage at the Lincoln Community Playhouse with the dedication and passion she has for performing on center stage.

You might also see her current passion project — staging a backyard production of Bonnie & Clyde: a New Musical, to which, in addition to her roles as performer and director, she’s tackling dramaturgical work, and has added historically accurate annotations.

At the end of our interview we asked Alexis if there was anything else she wanted to add to the article, and this is what she said:

“When I walk into Lincoln Community Playhouse, it feels like a second home — when I’m with all my friends. I just get to be myself and think – I get to be any character I want now!”

— ALEXIS VERZAL To get involved with the Penguin Project, as an Artist or a Mentor, head to lincolnplayhouse.com.

This winter will be your next chance to see the great work of the Penguin Project. Alexis will be Ms. Greenway in Elf Junior. A role that is normally for a boy, but she showed up to auditions in costume and off-book!

You can watch their incredible performances on: December 10-12 and 17-19, 2021 December 9 - Exceptional Families Performance

Make sure to get tickets as soon as possible because every show sells out quickly!

lincolnkidsinc.com | 19

Family Reading Night Grab a StorytimeTo-Go kit Do the "Read Together Challenge"

Tell Family Stories

Read to Siblings

Take a Story Walk

Meet Ali, Read Aloud Advocate, Lincoln City Libraries Did you know November is National Family Literacy Month? As the Read Aloud Advocate at Lincoln City Libraries, my main focus is to promote reading aloud with children for 15 minutes a day, every single day, starting at birth. Science shows that reading with your child is a critical component for building early literacy skills and sets the framework for how a child’s brain will function for the rest of their life. lincolnlibraries.org

ROOTED

OUR TEAM It’s time to schedule flu vaccines!

Chiropractic for the whole family

Call LPG today!

PRE-CONCEPTION

OFFICE HOURS

MATERNITY POSTPARTUM PEDIATRICS Dr. Molly Tillman, DC

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. 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

Inside Emerald Healing Arts & Apothecary

5600 S. 59th St, Ste 103 CALL OR TEXT

402.580.8571 SCHEDULE ONLINE

www.rootedinwellnesschiro.com 20 |

wi n t e r 2021

4501 S. 70th Street, Suite 110, Lincoln 402-489-3834 lincolnpedsgroup.com

Turn a New Family Page A L I B O U S Q U E T, R E A D A L O U D A D V O C AT E LINCOLN CITY LIBRARIES

Did you know November is National Family Literacy Month? Well, let’s celebrate! As the Read Aloud Advocate at Lincoln City Libraries, my main focus is to promote reading aloud with children for 15 minutes a day, every single day, starting at birth. Science shows that reading with your child is a critical component for building early literacy skills and sets the framework for how a child’s brain will function for the rest of their life. Reading aloud is an important part of literacy but it’s not the only way to celebrate National Literacy Month.

Here are some fun ways to make this month special: • Create a family reading night. Gather up cozy blankets, dim the lights, and read together. Whether that means the grown ups read aloud, reading independently or each family member takes a turn with the book, dedicating a whole night to being together around reading will create a special memory.

• Have older siblings read to their younger ones. Often older kids can speed through independent reading but having to read aloud will help them slow down, focus on getting the words right, and instill confidence in them. Bonus: they’ll be bonding with one another.

• Take a walk and create a story! As a family, take a walk around the block and use what you see as the basis for your story. See a squirrel? Well, what might that squirrel be running around for? Make the story as you walk along.

• Visit your local library! In November, Lincoln City Libraries will have a simple, “Read Together” reading challenge.

Complete the sheet and turn it in to your favorite Lincoln City Libraries location to get your own book to take home and keep!

• Grab a storytime-to-go kit. While we’re not currently doing outdoor storytimes due to the impending cold weather, we do offer storytime-to-go kits at Lincoln City Libraries. Pick a pre-selected theme or choose your own theme and get several books on a subject that interests your whole family...and then read together!

• Tell family stories aloud. Children love to hear stories--through that listening process they’re gaining background knowledge, being introduced to new vocabulary, and learning about story structure. Is there a favorite family holiday memory? A legendary origin story for a family nickname? Tell it aloud to your children or let them take turns filling in the gaps if they’ve heard it before.

lincolnkidsinc.com | 21

Enjoy some of our favorite seasonal songs!

Christmas Carols We Wish You a Merry Christmas Joy to the World The First Noel Jingle Bells The 12 Days of Christmas O Holy Night Santa Claus is Coming to Town Deck the Halls All I Want for Christmas is My Two Front Teeth Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas

NOW OPEN! New clinic at 7223 Kentwell Ln.

Connect your child with success.

Sensory processing difficulties can result in: •Frequent meltdowns •Picky eating •Motor delays Let us help you get ahead of problems.

Free 30 minute parent consult!

M. Kristen Pfeil Occupational Therapist

Call to learn more:

402-413-1356

Dental Care Designed for Your Child Call us today for an appointment

402-423-3322 3901 Pine Lake Road, Suite 250 Website: www.pediatricdentistrypc.net

connectpediatrictherapy.com 22 |

wi n t e r 2021

...follow us on Facebook!

Brent D. Johnson DDS, MS

Lincoln Kidding Jokes from Uncle Bob Q: What happens if you eat Christmas decorations?

A: You get tinsel-itis.

Q: Where does a snowman keep his money?

A: In a snowbank.

Q: What did one snowman say to the other?

A: Do you smell carrost?

DECK THE HALLS DREW DUNCAN, TENOR

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 5 | 2 & 6 PM

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BEETHOVEN

18-19

WILLIAM SHOMOS, NARRATOR

SUNDAY, JANUARY 30 | 2:00 PM

LINCOLNSYMPHONY.COM | (402)476-2211

Lincoln Midwest Ballet Company Shari True, Artistic Director

Nebraska Symphony Chamber Orchestra

W NO

ENR

O L L I N G F O R W I N T E R 2 0 21 Ages 0-7 years Days • Evenings • Weekends

Register now!

New students accepted anytime

Music Now. Skills for Life.

Of Lincoln with Shawna Gordon

(402) 770-1486 • KindermusikOfLincoln.com

lincolnkidsinc.com | 23

Need to schedule an exam or immunization?

Appointments that work for your schedule.

High-quality, affordable healthcare, close to you.

It’s why families in Lincoln choose Bluestem Health.

(402) 476-1455

•

BluestemLincoln.com

MEDICAL • DENTAL • BEHAVIORAL HEALTH • PHARMACY

24 |

wi n t e r 2021

?

Childcare as unique as a snowflake.

Ages 1½ -11 • Days, Evenings, & Weekends

Childcare by the hour. Convenience by the sleighful.

Gift Cards Available!

Come & go as you please. No reservations!

• Kids enjoy holiday parties, crafts, gift-making, theme days & more!

• All activities are included in our hourly rates • Warm meals available, snacks & beverages provided

e.

Fun Birthday Parties We are accepting Title XX.

Flexible Preschool

Date Nights

• Open 6 days a week • Open until 11pm Fri & Sat • Save with sibling discounts • Follow us on FB for events & holiday specials!

Game Days

Kid-Free Appointments

Shopping Trips

14th & Old Cheney • (402) 413-8849 • Kidspark.com

Tuition Assistance available for income-qualified families.

Are you a parent looking for early childhood tuition assistance for your little one? Lincoln Littles providers are recognized by the State...and KIDS... for quality early childhood education and may have scholarships available to offer NOW. Children eligible for Lincoln Littles tuition assistance must attend full-time and be infants, toddlers or preschoolers. To see if your family qualifies and to view a list of current providers, visit

www.LincolnLittles.org.

P.S. Don’t forget the fourth annual Lincoln Littles Giving Day on February 9th! Give to our littles, help a lot!

lincolnkidsinc.com | 25

Dancing Through Diagnosis Taylor Sharpe Dances Through Life— One Day at a Time Lincoln Kids Readers, meet the unstoppable Taylor Sharpe!

After Taylor took her first steps, it didn’t take much for her to start performing in front of her family, whether that was theatre or dancing.

Taylor found her love for performing while she did local plays and musicals as a young kiddo.

She wanted to be the best musical performer, so she started taking dance lessons.

Soon after, dance became her true passion.

Nothing could stop her from achieving her dancing dreams and goals. However, those goals were temporarily put on hold in March 2020.

In early March, Taylor went to Great Wolf Lodge with her best friend and their family for a fun weekend trip. On the last night of their stay, Taylor woke up to her ears hurting and her throat feeling extremely dry and no amount of water seemed to help.

Her mom, Amy, immediately scheduled a doctor’s appointment to figure out what

was wrong with her daughter. At the doctor’s appointment, Taylor described her symptoms and she was immediately scheduled for blood tests. When her blood tests came back, her blood sugar level was 444. The normal range is 80-120.

At that moment, Taylor’s doctor rushed her to receive insulin through an IV because her body was nearly in a coma. Taylor received the diagnosis that she had Type 1 diabetes.

To make this situation even wilder, while she was at the hospital receiving insulin, she watched on TV as the announcer talked about how the world needed to quarantine due to COVID-19.

What’s important to understand now is that her Type 1 diabetes diagnosis in no way stopped Taylor from dancing.

“Just because you have this disease, it doesn’t make you different from everyone else.

You just have to watch your body,” said Taylor.

Taylor dances five days a week which is a lot of time that she dedicates toward something that she is deeply passionate about. She uses a Personal Diabetes Monitor (PDM) to track her blood sugar levels through an app on her phone that calculates how much insulin she needs. However, as a competitive dancer, this can be hard because having adrenaline before a competition can raise her blood sugar very easily.

But Taylor’s Type 1 diabetes does not define her, and it never will.

26 |

wi n t e r 2021

This June, Taylor and her duo partner of nearly five years went to Arizona to compete at a national dance competition. They were the only ones from their Lincoln studio that competed at this event. Because of their dedication and passion, Taylor and her duo partner completed a dancing dream of theirs – they performed in front of thousands of people and received First Place in their category!

Fast forward to today — Taylor is a 7th grader at Scott Middle School. She is continuing to learn how to become the best dancer she can be with her diagnosis by listening to her body’s needs.

This year, Taylor has raised over $4,800 dollars toward JDRF, which is a nonprofit organization that funds Type 1 diabetes research.

“Never forget to always be yourself. Don’t let anything stop you from doing what you love, because you can do anything.”

— TAY LO R S H A R P E

You can donate at any time toward Taylor’s JDRF team or through their website. To learn more about juvenile diabetes, and to see more inspiring stories, head to JDRF.org.

lincolnkidsinc.com | 27

WINTER FUN IS AT: • 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!

TEXT LOSTINFUN

ANY

Icee

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

Not valid with other offers.

Expires 1/31/22. LK

15th & Yankee Hill

402-261-0440

28 |

wi n t e r 2021

71441

TO RECEIVE MOBILE COUPONS!

25 % f f o F P A O NY

75 ¢ oOfFf E

ANY SIZ

A S S! NE UN

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

Expires 1/31/22. LK

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

O DIPPIN' D

TS

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

Not valid with other offers.

Expires 1/31/22. LK

Book your party online!

LOSTINFUN.COM

E -M ILE OM H TH FU ANK ING OT AT NR N R S O GIVING M UN TR &W UAL T ALK | R I 5K RACE | V

1

f 75¢ SoIZfE

TO

ymcalincoln.org/turkeytrot

YEAR ROUND DAY CAMPS, BOOK A RETREAT, & RENT OUR FACILITIES! FIND A PLACE TO BELONG & BECOME AT CAMP SONSHINE CampSonshineMemories.org | 402.423.8746 | info@CampSonshineMemories.org

parks has a new website.

Youth & adult programs Team sports Rentals & reservations 134 miles of trails 133 parks 91 playgrounds 9 public pools 6 recreation centers 5 golf courses 4 dog runs Pioneers Park Nature Center Free events & SO MUCH MORE

PARKS.LINCOLN.NE.GOV lincolnkidsinc.com | 29

NEW LOCATION! 58th & Old Cheney

Children | Teens | Adults

evelopment D & F R E E Growth for ages 7-10

gram Pro

Nebraska Orthodontics offers FREE yearly orthodontic exams for kids ages 7-10.

We catch small problems before they become BIG problems.

If intervention is recommended, we offer affordable treatment plans with low monthly payments and 0% financing.

No referral needed!

Nebraska Orthodontics Dr. Bronsen Schliep

5801 S 58th St | 402-475-6666

NebraskaOrthOdONtics.cOm

Have fun! Make Friends!

Learn to Sing!

Formerly Nebraska Academy of Vocal Arts

Two choirs for Boys and Girls, grades 2-8. Financial Assistance available.

Registration Open nebraskachildrenschoir@gmail.com 402-202-0565 • NebraskaChildrensChoir.org

30 |

wi n t e r 2021

Fingerprints Child Development Center

DIRECTORY

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

Open 6:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Enrolling now for parttime Pre-K morning program. M–F from 9:00 a.m.

– 11:30 a.m. Contact for current openings.

Child Care / Education & Wellness

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

Bright Lights (Ages K - 8th Grade) Summer Learning Adventures. Offering 5 weeks of fun, hands-on, STEAM-based summer learning camps for K-8th grade students. Half-day and full-day camps available on a wide variety of topics.

More information including registration details, camp dates, and camp topics is available at BrightLights.org.

5561 S. 48th Street, #220, Lincoln, NE 68516 (402) 420-1115 brightlights.org

Dimensions Education at 7700 A St. (6w - 6y) Quality early education program for children. Summer programs for kids ages 6 weeks–1st grade. Visit DimensionsEd.org for information and online forms or email admin@dimensionsed.org.

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 and 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 and online forms or email admin@dimensionsed.org.

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

KidsPark (1 1/2 - 11y) Trusted hourly childcare on days, evenings and weekends! No reservations required. Drop-in Mon.-Thu. 7:30 a.m. - 9:00 p.m., Fri. 7:30 a.m. - 11:00 p.m., and Sat. 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m.!

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

Kelly’s Kids (Northeast) (6w - 12y) Now enrolling for infants and toddlers classrooms! Open Monday-Friday, 6:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. 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

Lincoln Parks and Recreation Preschool Programs Little Sprouts Preschool at Calvert Recreation Center and Nature Preschool at Pioneers Park Nature Center are open to children 3 to 5 years of age. Programs are nature based, with teachers planning curriculum around children’s curiosity and wonder of the world around them.

(402) 441-8669 lincoln.ne.gov (search: Preschool)

Rooted in Wellness Chiropractic 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.

5600 S. 59th St., Ste. 103 (402) 580-8571 rootedinwellnesschiro.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 creating friendships. Summer camp locations vary.

Adams Elementary School • 5905 O St. (402) 436-1683 info@sparksummer.org

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

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

True Knowledge Preschool (Preschool) A fun and exciting academic approach that will prepare your child for kindergarten and beyond. Small classroom sizes.

Engaging teacher. Welcoming environment! 2, 3, and 5-day options. Contact us to learn more!

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

Birthday Party Fun LifeSTROKES 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 and their chaperones — pool toys, food and refreshments, decorations, and safety vests welcome! Offered Friday evenings and 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 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

lincolnkidsinc.com | 31

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 and drinks! We do company parties, too! Book your next Fun-tastic party online at lostinfun.com!

8431 Cody Dr. (15th & Yankee Hill) (402) 466-8692 LostInFun.com

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 and minerals! Guided museum activities including a hands-on fossil dig in the Marx Discovery Center and 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

Pioneers Park Nature Center Add nature to your child’s birthday! Parties includes a guided hike or themed activity, special gift for birthday child, party bags for each child, and time for your own activity and refreshments. Recommended for ages 5-12.

3201 S. Coddington Ave. (402) 441-7895 lincoln.ne.gov (search: Pioneers Park Nature Center)

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

Blue Raven Music Studios Guitar, strings, voice and more! Guitar, drums, bass, piano, dobro, lap steel, mandolin, banjo, violin, viola, ukulele, group bands, and voice instruction for all ages. Fun, positive learning environment. Reduced rate guitar and ukulele classes for kids ages 5-9.

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

32 |

wi n t e r 2021

Chase the Spirit of Dance

Swanson’s Martial Arts

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!

Our mission is to build a better world through martial arts training emphasizing Courtesy, Integrity, Perseverance, Self-Control, and Indomitable Spirit. Taekwondo is a great way for anyone to achieve fitness and focus. Our Taekwondo program includes Little Dragons, ages 4-6, and Family Taekwondo, ages 7 and up including adults. Classes offered 6 days a week: Mon-Fri evenings and Saturday mornings.

chasethespirit.dance info@chasethespirit.com (402) 904-4091

4747 Old Cheney Road, Suite B (402) 405-5965 SwansonsMartialArts.com Contact@SwansonsMartialArts.com

Girl Scouts Spirit of Nebraska As a Girl Scout, you’ll dream big, belong to a sisterhood, and explore your world through hands-on adventures. Whether you’re watching a shooting star, learning about robots, hiking, camping, creating art, or making new friends, you’ll grow with other girls as you discover, imagine, and create together. You’re invited to join Girl Scouts today and become your best self!

8230 Beechwood Drive (402) 558-8189 GirlScouts.how/lincoln MemberSupport@GirlScoutsNebraska.org

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

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

Little Ones’ Activities LifeSTROKES Infant and toddler swimming lessons! Grab a friend and 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-minute 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

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

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.

Lincoln Music Teachers Association

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

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

LMTA.info

Makit Takit • Lincoln’s Craft Studio Hands-on fun! Several arts and 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

lincolnkidsinc.com | 33 ANSWERS: 1) The polar bears are sliding the opposite way. 2) The whale is pink. 3) There’s a submarine by the large penguin. 4) The large penguin has a star belly button. 5) The snow has changed direction. 6) The igloo is bigger.

Spot the Difference!

Something’s different with our penguins— 6 things, in fact!

PROUD PARTNER OF

Kid-friendly branding from kids at heart. weareeleanor.com

Thank you, Sylvan Learning!

“Ziya started at Sylvan at the beginning of her 3rd-grade year.

This was about 6 months after the pandemic had started. Her reading and math scores had dropped to a 2nd-grade level and her confidence was non-existent when it came to school work.

While she had the support of two parents, grandparents, and multiple staff at her school, she really needed some additional, individualized support. Her resource counselor created her an IEP (individualized education program), and while I was thankful she had different groups to attend, and a lessened requirement on testing and homework, that additional help was only about 30 minutes per day.

After researching Sylvan programs and seeing all of the people they have helped, we decided to do a tour. The space was clean, bright, and welcoming.

34 |

wi n t e r 2021

Ziya was hesitant to start, however, once she met Ms. Liz and Ms. Katie she was all in. She said they were both very smart, helpful, and nice. She attended the center 2-3 times a week for 11 months. I am proud to say her confidence, comprehension, and test scores greatly improved. She is now a whole new kid! She said when her teachers told her how much she had improved, she felt proud of herself and knew that her hard work paid off. Her teachers were also grateful for the additional support. I would highly recommend Sylvan to any parent or child!

— Ashley Ziya’s Proud Mother

Our Center Directors A big reason why we have had such great success at Sylvan is because of our passionate, intelligent, and hard-working team. Meet our Owner and our Center Directors. They are the heart of this organization and they truly love what they do. When asked what makes Sylvan great, why they love what they do at Sylvan, and what advice they have for parents and students who are considering the Sylvan experience, here is what they said: “There is nothing like the connection and relationships we build with both parents and students. Often, the work we do with the kids also helps to empower the parents to ask more informed questions of the school teachers when things get difficult.”

“Progress doesn’t always look like what we think it should and not everything that is meaningful can be measured. The progress we make for every kid at Sylvan looks a little different and we will show it the best way we can. As parents, we have to trust the process and know that kids are learning and growing and making progress — but it isn’t always on a trajectory we can predict.”

— Trudy, Bellevue Director of Education “In the last two years, I’ve seen so many success stories and watched struggling students become more and more confident in their abilities and actually get excited about their tutoring sessions and mastering skills. I’m so proud to be on this team and love working with our families!”

— Molly, Omaha Director of Education

— Wes, Lincoln Center Director

“Sylvan is centered around the well-being of people: the students, parents, teachers, staff, and community. We have a very close-knit team at Sylvan and maintaining a welcoming environment is modeled and encouraged.”

— Hailey, Lincoln Director of Education

“I love that our programs meet students at their level and build them up with mastery-based lessons. Not only do I get to watch students attain academic goals, but I also get to see their confidence and study habits grow as well. There is no greater feeling than to see a student pick up a book and feel successful and proud or to see a student attain his or her desired grade point average or ACT score. I love being a part of each student’s unique educational story.”

“I love to smile and laugh and share it with others, especially children. The ‘aha’ moments we share, with all kids from pre-K to high schoolers, are what makes this environment so special.

These kids walk in a little defeated, and when they leave, you know they are leaving with more knowledge and confidence than they showed up with – and that you were the one there to support them. That means everything.”

— Brittney, Omaha Center Director “My mother-in-law was the previous owner. She was my role model and extremely passionate about education and leadership. I loved listening to her talking about the connections she had with the families we serve. The kids gave her so much energy and it filled her up. That is part of why I joined Sylvan when she asked me to take over.”

— Missy, Sylvan Owner

— Kelly, Bellevue Director of Education

lincolnkidsinc.com | 35

Let us warm your hearts this winter season with 4 reasons to love Sylvan Learning.

1

Our Holiday Sale

2

Our ACT/SAT Prep Courses

As a gift from Sylvan to you, enjoy our Sylvan Learning Holiday Sale! We are offering a $775 savings for four weeks ONLY, from Nov. 22 - Dec. 22. Don’t miss this once-a-year opportunity to see what Sylvan is all about.

What a gift it would be to watch ACT/SAT scores go up and stress come down! Your teen has big college dreams, but the competition to get into the best universities is fierce! If your teen’s ACT/SAT scores aren’t where they should be, if they get test-day anxiety, or they simply want to make the best impression with college admissions, turn to Sylvan of Lincoln for ACT/SAT prep.

Our ACT/SAT prep program will help your teen manage the pressure, lower stress, and raise those crucial test scores. Before you know it, you’ll be receiving gifts in the form of messages from colleges, and hearing your son or daughter say three magical words: “I got in!”

3

The Gift of In-Home Tutoring Even before the pandemic, Sylvan Learning has offered in-home tutoring, in-person and online.

Whether it is for their health and safety or because of travel and scheduling concerns, we have options. Give your child or grandchild the gift of in-home tutoring for the holiday.

4

Our Giving Spirit — with the Sylvan Gives Back Coat Drive The best part of the holiday season is giving. That is what it is all about. Join us for our holiday coat drive at any of our three local Sylvan locations – Lincoln, Bellevue, and Omaha. We are collecting new and gently used coats for people in need. The winter can be cold and long; let’s warm it up with generous hearts and giving to others. Drop off during the month of November.

Lincoln - 3900 Yankee Hill Rd, #113, Lincoln, NE 68516 Omaha - 17660 Wright St, #11, Omaha, NE 68130 Bellevue - 3615 Summit Plaza Dr, #103, Bellevue, NE 68123

3900 Yankee Hill Rd, Ste 113, Lincoln, NE 68516 (402) 817-3947 • sylvanlearning.com