Momaha Magazine - April 2017

momaha.com

VOLUME 8 · ISSUE 4

APRIL 2017

So happy together

DIY leashes, bowls and more!

TIDY PETS Keeping supplies in check

THE BEST PLACE FOR KIDS.

Levi & Dylan, age 4 Pulmonary Atresia

Visit ChildrensOmaha.org for more information on how we can help your child.

For a pediatrician, family physician or pediatric specialist, call 1.800.833.3100.

2005486-01

OPEN NOW! ONLY AT

For F or g groups roups of 2-6 people

You’ve got 60 minutes...

Can you Crack the Code and escape? • Test your Problem-Solving Abilities Special Rate:

• Fun Family Teamwork Activity • Learn to Think Outside the Box • One-of-a-Kind Tricks, Gadgets and Props

O N L Y $ .99

89

for each Family or Group of 2-6 Players

Located inside Mangelsen’s 3457

S. 84th St

Just North of I-80 on 84th Street

Schedule your experience at 402-391-6225 or visit CrackTheCodeEscapeRooms.com 2011681-01

1

2010094-01

2001290-01

2

PUT ON YOUR GAME FACE YMCA Youth Summer Baseball, Softball & T-ball

SON: R SEA 15 E M M Y SU 3-JUL JUNE ION

TRAT REGIS APRIL 30 ENDS

Teams are forming for ages 3 years - 8th grade!

Register at metroymca.org or at your YMCA Welcome Center.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE Y AT WWW.METROYMCA.ORG!

YMCA SUMMER CAMPS

May 30 - August 25: Week-long sessions • Summer Day Camp • Camp Platte • Specialty Camps (full or half day options) • Preschool Camps • Teen Summer Programs

Visit metroymca.org to view our full 2017 Summer Camp Guide! Register at any YMCA Welcome Center.

SUMMER ADVENTURES START HERE YMCA OF GREATER OMAHA • metroymca.org

2011557-01

3

Open to members & Non members!

June - August • Weekly • Ages: 5-13

s p m a C Summer Day Camps

include field trips, crafts, swimming, sports, music, science and more!

Premiere Camps

in art, musical theater, dance, basketball, volleyball, soccer, cheerleading and special interests.

Register today at www.jccomaha.org

momaha where moms connect VOLUME 8 . ISSUE 4 . APRIL 2017 editor in chief CHRIS CHRISTEN chris.christen@owh.com 402-444-1094

creative director + designer HEIDI THoRSoN hthorson@owh.com 402-444-1351

assistant editor kIm CaRpENTER kim.carpenter@owh.com 402-444-1416

333 S. 132nd St. | Omaha, NE 68154 | 402-334-6426

momaha.com editor aSHlEE CoffEy ashlee.coffey@owh.com 402-444-1075

production coordinator paT R I C I a “ m U R p H y ” B E N o I T

content contributors D av I D C o D R amy TokoS H E aT H E R W I N k E l

2017 Jr.

Golf Programs P

Leagues, Clinics, Play Days & Team Golf

SNAG is the first step of the pathway for all players new to Snag Golf 5-8 yrs the game. We provide all the equipment to make that first step fun. Tues. June 6th - July 11th, 10-11 AM / Wed. June 7th - July 5th/ Wed. July 12th to Aug. 9th, 9:30-10:30 AM. For beginning golfers with limited golf experience. development camp Each session will consist of golf swing instructions, activities and on course skill building. July 12 Aug. 9th / June 6th - Aug. 15th 8:00-9:30 AM For experienced to advanced golfers.

Instructional league Wed. June 7th - Aug. 9th / 8AM to 11:00AM. 45 minutes of instructions and activities with on course play each week.

TENNIS summer tennis program

Preschool–High School. Summer long weekly programs in safe, fun, high energy climate controlled environment. Taught by USPTA instructors. Call for Dates and Times.

registration

miraclehillgolf.com 402-498-02202007543-01 4

account manager DEB mcCHESNEy deb.cavalier@owh.com 402-444-1448

account executive SaRa BakER sara.baker@owh.com 402-444-1442

account executive G ay l I D D E l l gay.liddell@owh.com 402-444-1489

account executive E m I ly m a R T I N emily.martin@owh.com 402-444-1411 Momaha Magazine is a monthly publication of the Omaha World-Herald, 1314 Douglas St., Suite 700, Omaha, NE 68102.

Momaha is a registered trademark, and all content is copyright 2017 by the Omaha World-Herald. All rights reserved. The opinions and perspectives published herein are those of the authors and should not be construed as those of Momaha Magazine.

When His Ears Hurt Too Often

We Trusted Them More people trust Boys Town Ear, Nose & Throat Institute when someone they love needs help.

Our Board Certified doctors specialize in treating problems ranging from common ear, nose and throat illnesses and disorders, to chronic sinus problems, to complex head and neck conditions, all backed by more than 40 years of life-changing research.

To schedule an appointment near you, visit BoysTownENT.org or call 402.498.6540 2011683-01

5

CONTENTS

Real MoMs + aDVICe 8 Editor’s Column 10 On Our Radar 14 Momaha Bookshelf 26 Get Organized 32 Be Well

seasoNal

12 Junkstock 28 Rad Radishes

• MIND • SPIRIT

oN THe CoVeR

Photo: Heidi Thorson 16 Doggy DIY 22 Sit and Stay 24 Dog Gone Problems

• ACADEMICS • ATHLETICS

O M A H AC H R I ST I A N AC A D E M Y.O RG For more information, email KTulsie@ocamail.org or call 402.399.9565 6

Storybook Lan d

r li r o

Sun | Apr 30 | 1-4

r y.o

PM

| 14850 Laurel Ave.

The Very Hungry Caterpillar

April 21–29!

Meet and greet your favorite storybook characters!

 Â? Â? Â?Â? Â

2011636-01

20TH SEASON • State-of-the-Art Facility • 3 Large Studios at 1 Location • Top Quality Dance Instruction • Boys • Girls • Ages 2 to Adults • Caring Teachers in a Fun, Positive Learning Environment • Age-Appropriate Classes, Choreography & Costumes • Serving the Papillion/La Vista Area Since 1998

8610 Brentwood Drive, Drive #7 | La Vista 402-592-6722 ADCdance.com | adcboss@cox.net | Jennifer Kinsey, owner FREE REGISTRATION FOR 2017 CLASSES* 2004226-01

*Expires 5.31.17. New students only.

7

MoMaha.coM edItor // aShlee coffey Wife to Kevin Coffey, music critic for the Omaha World-Herald.

Mom to Sam and Elliott.

Follow her on Twitter: @ashleecoffeyowH

I

The piTTer-paTTer of liTTle paws

’ve always had pets.

Growing up, I had two dogs – Sasha and, later, Bailey.

Those dogs went everywhere with us. They played house with us, let us dress them up, followed us on our adventures in the woods, accompanied us when we went trick-or-treating, went camping with us, slept at the foot of our beds and graciously accepted the food we snuck them from under the dinner table.

We also had a cat who was a good sport when we dressed her in baby clothes and laid her down in my sister’s baby cradle.

I can’t imagine growing up without a pet.

Now I have two cats, Isabel and Nellie. My two

children adore Nellie, bless her little heart. She is so tolerant of being petted – or, really, having her fur pulled – by a 6-month-old.

Eventually, we’d love to get a dog, but we aren’t sure it’s the right time yet. We want to be able to give a dog the attention he or she needs.

Are you in the same position? Check out Kim Carpenter’s article with tips from the Nebraska Humane Society. Also, David Codr, a dog behaviorist who writes the Dog Gone Problems blog on momaha.com, shares tips for dealing with young children and pets. Because not all pets will be as tolerant having a baby tug on its fur constantly.

Happy spring!

Get SocIal Facebook /momahacom TwiTTer @momaha_owh PinTeresT /momahaowh

8

SWIM INTO

SPRING

REGISTER NOW FOR SWIM LESSONS

Mobile and Private Parties La Vista

Whether it is a PTA fundraiser, sports club team building, birthday party, bachelorette party, baby shower, or corporate team building, we have the party for you. We can either host the party at our studio or “We can bring the party to you!”

Contact us at 402-502-5656

or lavista@pinotspalette.com for more information.

www.pinotspalette.com/lavista

Ages 6 Mos. & Older.

Morning, Afternoon, Evening & Saturday Morning

Timeslots Available!

Full and Part Tim Child Caree

192 & Pacific 402-991-0696

enient Two Contvions Lo c a

180th & Dodge 402-932-2922

CONTACT US

FOR ENROLLMENT & ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

402-932-2030 LittleWavesFamilySwimSchool.com

ENROLLMENT AT SMALLMIRACLECHILDCARE.COM

1999035-01

www.smallmiraclechildcare.com 9

On OUR RADAR // EDitOR’s picks

THINGS TO TRY THIS MONTH ROUND & ROUND THEY GO

HERE, KITTY, KITTY

It’s no secret that cats like snug spaces. K&H Pet Products’ Mod Dream Pod is a hard shell house that includes a washable polyfill pillow. The structure unzips in half for easy cleaning. Stylish, practical and a feline favorite. Purr-fect!

Chewy.com, $41.75

VET IN TRAINING

Kids love animals. And they also love playing vet. Save Fido from any pokes or prods with the Battat Dalmation Vet Clinic.

The carrier comes with its own pup, and kids can tend to its health with play medical equipment. Other stuffed animals will be lining up at your little vet’s clinic for their check-ups. yoyo.com, $27.49

WATERFRONT PROPERTY

The boring, rectangular aquarium undergoes home improvement in this Umbra FishHotel Aquarium. Units stack so there’s plenty of room for new fish to move in if your goldfish gets lonely.

Now, to decorate!

Amazon.com, $34.75

10

Hamsters, gerbils and mice are active little creatures, and boy, do they love to run on their wheels!

Especially at night.

Make sure they get their exercise while your family catches their zzzzs peacefully with this Kaytee Silent Spinner Wheel.

Big wheels keep turning, and no one will ever hear.

Petsmart.com, $13.99

BUNGEES FOR BARKERS

You’re taking man’s best friend for a walk, and suddenly a squirrel scampers past.

You know what happens to your arm socket. The Bungee Leash absorbs some of the shock when your dog suddenly lunges and gives him or her a little more freedom while still giving you control.

Walk time! tombihn.com, $25

FITNESS ADVICE YOU CAN FOLLOW. HEALTHYKOHLSKIDS.COM WE’RE ALL IN FOR: • Community with small class sizes and personalized attention.

• Educational Excellence where intellectual curiosity is cool.

• Pushing Boundaries to build resilience, character, and creative problem-solving.

From preschool to grade 12, we prepare students to learn passionately, think critically, act responsibly, and lead with integrity.

ALL IN FOR BT Visit brownell.edu/GoBT to schedule a campus tour today.

11

STORY Ashlee Coffey PHOTOGRAPHY Kent Sievers

F

orget about spring cleaning. It’s time to spring redecorate. Junkstock to the rescue!

The sixth annual vintage festival series kicks off April 7-9 at Sycamore Farms, 1150 River Road, Waterloo. To get there, take the 228th Street exit from West Dodge Road.

The spring edition – Junkstock’s 12th seasonal event overall – will feature more than 200 vendors, 18-plus food trucks and great music on the Junkstock Stage all three days. There will also be an activities area that kids will love.

Kids World gets a new petting zoo, along with bounce houses, face painting and pony rides. The Junkstock grounds will also feature some new art, including a peace sign made completely of flowers and a horse sculpted from scrap metal – fitting, since Junkstock’s home is a century-old horse farm.

What is Junkstock?

What food will be on site?

A one-of-a-kind shopping event that features antique and vintage goods, including farm-fresh junk, rescued relics, up-cycled furniture, mid-century marvels, architectural salvage, clothing and accessories, and handmade items.

What are the hours?

10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday; 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Saturday; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. Early bird hours are 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. Friday.

What makes it unique?

Each vendor puts a novel twist on items

12

and displays – from vintage jewelry and children’s clothing made from recycled materials to home décor made from scrap metal. See examples at junkstock.com.

What’s new at the farm?

A Taste of New Orleans Food Truck, Anthony Piccolo’s Mobile Venue, Big Daddy’s Mini Donuts, Big Kahuna Kettle Corn, Boyd and Charlie’s, Cactus Jack’s, Code 3 Catering, Dire Lion Grille and Chippy, Fire Barn, Funnel Cake Truck & Sweet Treats, Johnny Ricco’s Pizza, Keck’s Rootbeer, Kona – Ice of West Omaha, Laura’s Eggrolls, Lindsey Enterprises, Lolo’s, Maui Wowi Hawaiian, Renear Inc., Streetside Foods, Sweet Lime Thai Food Express, Thai Esarn Cuisine and The Nut Hutte.

What bands are performing?

Josh Hoyer & Soul Colossal, Lloyd McCarter & and The Honky-Tonk Revival, Matt Cox Band, Eckophonic, Sailing in Soup, Tragic Jack and Far & Wide Blues.

Fun Fact: Lincoln native Josh Hoyer is competing on NBC’s “The Voice” this season; he’s on Blake Shelton’s team.

What’s the cost?

Tickets are $8 when purchased online or $10 at the gate. Children under 12 are free. Three-day passes are available for $20. Early-bird tickets, $30, include admission two hours before the gates officially open to the public Friday. An early-bird ticket also guarantees entry to all three days. For $70, you can get an early-bird season pass that includes early access and three-day passes to all three events in 2017 – April 7-9, June 9-11 and October 6-8. Early-bird season pass holders also receive a $5 voucher good for each Junkstock Market in 2017.

Did you know:

Momaha.com is a perennial co-sponsor of Junkstock. Find more information about this family-friendly event at junkstock.com

SAFE & LOVING QUALITY CHILD CARE

2017 Summer Semester: May 30 - July 25 Registration Opens March 20! www.artsforallinc.com (402) 556-7821 2011809-01

•

•

www.nchs.org

2011640-01

Call today for a tour | 402-451-0787

NATURE CONNECTS® by Sean Kenney On display through May 15 Featuring sculptures inspired by nature and built from 450,000 LEGO® bricks.

100 Bancroft St., Omaha | lauritzengardens.org

2011711-01

13

New picks hot off the presses, straight to you COMPILED by Momaha Magazine

PUG MEETS PIG

Sue Lowell Gallion, Joyce Wan (Simon & Schuster) Pug is happily ensconced as the family’s beloved pet, so when Pig trots in, the adjustment doesn’t go well. When the put-out Pug is ready to pack it all in, he sees that Pig is unhappy, and empathy takes over. Soon, the two are inseparable.

An adorable book about making room for new people (or pets) in your life and putting others ahead of personal needs.

Ages preschool-5

14

WE LOVE YOU, ROSIE!

Cynthia Rylant, Linda Davick (Simon & Schuster) Rosie, the irrepressible dachshund, is sometimes good and sometimes bad, but always loved. After all, who could fault stealing a piece of pizza here and there?

A perfect tale of a tail wagger for beginning readers to learn words via repetition. The brother and sister in the illustrations are a sweet accompaniment to the action. Ages 3-6

“VICTOR AND HUGO”

Robert J. Blake, (Penguin Young Readers) Maestro plays his accordion on the streets of Paris, and his dogs, Victor and Hugo, perform alongside him.

When the accordion accidentally falls off a bridge and becomes lodged in a tire, it’s up to the two friends to save the music. The gorgeous, evocative illustrations fill the unfolding Parisian drama with a sense of wonder and magic.

Ages 3-7

“I WILL LOVE YOU ANYWAY”

Mark Inkpen, Chloë Inkpen (Aladdin) He chases cars, rolls in poo and runs away.

This misbehaving dog just can’t seem to help himself. But when the parents consider getting rid of him, his owner, a darling little boy with a shock of red hair, can’t bear to part with him. A tear-jerker about friends who love each other no matter what.

(Spoiler alert: the ending is a happy one.

Whew!) Ages 4-7

“HUMPHREY’S MIXED-UP MAGIC TRICK”

Betty G. Birney, Priscilla Burris (Putnam Juvenile) When the kids in Room 26 discuss what they want to be when they grow up, Miranda chooses magician.

A boy doesn’t think girls can do that.

Humphrey, the class hamster, to the rescue!

He serves as Miranda’s assistant, and the two put on a show worthy of cheering. Told from the hamster’s point of view, this is a sweet can-do tale. Ages 5-8

  � � � 04/30/17 �  ­ ­€

‚ƒ

2011630-01

Full-length movie with orchestra!

Experience the Academy Award-winning animated film with Michael Giacchino’s score performed live! Savor the fun with the whole family as the movie cooks up a delectable feast of sights and sounds.

Movie Music Series Sponsors

Kids under age 5 are welcome. All patrons require a paid ticket, regardless of age.

SATURDAY, APRIL 1 7:30 PM HOLLAND CENTER Order your family’s tickets today!

402.345.0606 | OMAHASYMPHONY.ORG

2004663-01

15

16

Treat your canine to these DIY goodies TEXT + PHOTOGRAPHY Heather Winkel

Dip-DyeD Dog Leash 1. Tape or tie off ends of 6-foot length

of 1/2” Hyperlink cotton rope in white (amazon.com) to prevent unraveling. 2.

Soak rope in warm water in large bowl.

Meanwhile, lay out plastic drop cloth, put on disposable latex gloves and prepare 5-color tie-dye kit dye according to package instructions. Use a small bowl for each color (one part dye base to three parts water). 3. Each dyed section will be about 1 foot long, which means you’ll end up with 5 feet of color and 1 foot of undyed rope. For an ombre effect, start on one end with yellow, and dip in the dye for one to five minutes depending on the intensity of color you desire. 4. Remove rope from dye, and move to the next sections: green,

teal, purple and pink. The colors will bleed together where they touch. 5. Hang rope to drip-dry completely (about 8 hours).

6. Attach 4 rope clamps, and swivel snap hook (available at hardware stores).

Choose an end you want to place the hook.

Feed the end of the rope through the hook ring, then fold the rope over, creating a small loop. 7. Place 2 clamps on flat surface with the prongs facing up. Lay the base of the rope loop inside the clamp, between the prongs. With a rubber mallet, hammer prongs securely over the rope. 8. On the other end, fold the rope over to create a 6-7” loop (bigger or smaller depending on the size of your hand and what feels comfortable to you). Then, repeat step 7.

personaLizeD Dog BowL 1. Wash each bowl with warm water and soap and dry completely. 2. Decorate the outside

of the bowl with non-toxic paint using a paint brush. Decorate with the names of your pets, dog bones or polka dots. 3. Let dry for an hour, then paint over the design with Mod Podge.

4. Let dry 24 hours before use.

Doggie anD Me sweatshirt 1. Print sweatshirt design of choice (download

our template for free at momaha.com) onto 8.5” x 11” iron-on transfer sheet according to package instructions. 2. Cut out design with scissors. 3. Center design on front of sweatshirt, printed side facing down. 4. Using firm, steady pressure, iron the transfer onto the sweatshirt.

5. When completely cool, peel off the back of the transfer sheet to reveal design.

Tip: Match your sweatshirt to Fido’s new leash!

17

PuP TarTs 1. Heat oven to 350 F. 2. Combine 2 jars vegetable or fruit baby food, 2 jars chicken baby food, 2½ cups oatmeal cereal in bowl and mix well (dough will be sticky).

3. Roll dough into 2-inch balls and flatten into rectangles on a sheet of waxed paper.

4. Place on lightly greased cookie sheet and bake for 25 minutes. 5. For frosting, combine 12 ounces cream cheese, room temperature, 2 teaspoons honey, 1 teaspoon vanilla into a bowl and beat with hand mixer until creamy. 6. Spread frosting onto cooled cookies and store in the refrigerator.

18

Frozen Dog TreaTs 1. Put 32 ounces plain yogurt,

3 tablespoons smooth peanut butter, 1 large banana, 1 cup blueberries into a blender and blend until smooth. 2. Pour mixture into paw print silicone mold or tray. 3. Freeze for at least 2 hours. 4. Pop out of molds and serve outside on a hot summer day. 5. Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer.

DOGGY DIY

19

20

18TH YEAR

SEMI-ANNUAL KIDZ SHOPPE

Consignment Sale

4 DAYS ONLY! April 5th - 8th 9:30am - 7:00pm

1/2 Price Day

TreaT Jar 1. Tear off a piece of painter’s tape (or

contact paper) big enough for your design, and stick it to a cutting board. 2. Place your design template (download our free printable template on momaha.com) over the painter’s tape (we taped our design down so it was easier to cut). 3. Create a stencil by cutting out the design with an X-Acto Knife, making sure to go through the painter’s tape or contact paper. 4. Lift the tape or contact paper from the cutting board and position your stencil where you want the etching to appear on the jar. 5. Using a sponge brush and gloved hands, carefully apply etching cream (we used Armour Etch) to stencil, being mindful of package directions. Let stand for 1.5 minutes, or longer, until cream sets. 6. Rinse off etching cream and remove the stencil.

PeanuT BuTTer, OaTmeal and aPPle TreaTs 1. Heat oven to 400 F. 2. Grind 2 cups

oatmeal in blender then combine with 2 cups ground and whole oats in a bowl.

3. Add 1 large apple, cored and grated to oatmeal. 4. Add 1 egg and 1 cup canned pumpkin. Mix well to combine. 5. The mixture will be thick and sticky and hard to roll out. For best results, lay cookie cutter flat and push mixture into cookie cutter with fingers, about ½ inch thick. 6. Transfer to baking sheet, and bake for 15 minutes. 7.

Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.

West Omaha’s Premier Sale!

Everything for Kidz!

Sat 9:30 - 4:00 Spring Summer Clothing - Swimsuits - Outdoor Toys Play Sets - Bikes - Dancewear - Sports Gear - Jr. Clothing Cribs - Highchairs - Strollers - Gaming Systems Furniture - Crib

The Soccer Club | 14706 Giles Rd. kidzshoppeomaha.com 2010759-01 f

Join us for a summer of

EXPLORE and G R O W

OUTDOOR E ADVENTUR

Summer Adventure Camps at Lauritzen Gardens provide exciting opportunities for children ages 4-12 to connect to nature and foster an appreciation for the environment through direct experiences with the natural world. Visit lauritzengardens.org for details.

THE MORE YOU

EXPLORE

THE MORE YOU

SAVE

• Buy one week of camp at regular price, get 10% off the second week • Buy two weeks of camp at regular price, get 50% off the third week

FUN THEMES • FLEXIBLE SCHEDULING OPPORTUNITIES FOR DISCOVERY 100 Bancroft Street, Omaha (402) 346-4002, ext. 212

www.lauritzengardens.org 2011714-01

21

What to consider before adding a dog to the family mix STORY Kim Carpenter PHOTOGRAPHY Heidi Thorson

“Please, Mom! Can we get a dog? Please, Dad! I promise I’ll take care of him!”

As parents, just about none of us are immune to this plaintive plea. Whether gazing into the wide eyes of our child or those of an adorable puppy, the pull of dog ownership is sometimes stronger than a Great Dane straining on a leash.

Cathy Guinane, director of community training and behavior at the Nebraska Humane Society (and owner of three dogs herself), says adopting a dog has many benefits. “They’re a great way to teach respect and respect for life,” she explains. “Having a pet teaches children how to care for another living thing.”

It also makes kids put someone else’s needs ahead of their own. “Just because children want to do something, doesn’t mean it’s workable.

They might want to play video games, but the yard has to be cleaned up first. Or maybe the dog has to go for a walk,” Guinane says. “The dog’s needs have to be addressed first.”

Because dogs require so much time, Guinane stresses that bringing one into the home should be a careful decision. “Having an animal is a big commitment. A dog is a living, breathing being. It feels emotions and needs care.”

Lucas Lowder, 10 months, and family dog Kira play outside at home.

22

10 THINGS TO CONSIDER AGE

If children aren’t born into a home with existing pets, wait until they’re older before introducing a furry friend to the family dynamic.

Guinane says age 6 is generally a good time.

“When you have really little kids, it’s hard for them to communicate, and their attention spans are so short. It’s pretty overwhelming to bring a dog into the home when kids are that little. Their movements are sporadic and that can be hard for dogs.”

HOME ENVIRONMENT

What’s your home like, inside and out? “You have to consider what kind of yard you have,” stresses Guinane. “If you have a jumper, you need a tall fence. Tieouts are not the best for dogs. Inside, consider how much housework you want to do. How often do you want to vacuum?”

TIME COMMITMENT

Evaluate your family’s schedule and the activity level in your home.

Are you gone all day only to arrive home for a quick dinner before taking off again for team practices or other after-school activities? If so, adding a pet to the mix isn’t a good idea.

“If kids are doing a ton of things, do they – and you – have time for a dog? Remember, dogs need time – as much as you can give them.”

PUPPY VS. ADULT

Puppies are adorable.

They are, however, a lot of work. “Do you want to deal with potty training and puppy teeth?” asks Guinane. While going with an adult dog might seem like a better bet, they may come with issues of their own.

“If the rescue animal has had trauma, it will take more time – and patience. Also, if you adopt an older dog, you need to check the medical issues. It can make a big difference.”

RESPONSIBILITY

Do you constantly have to remind your children to clean up their rooms, make their beds, put dirty dishes in the sink, even brush their teeth? If so, a dog will only underscore their irresponsibility. Before any pet can enter the home, Guinane stresses children need to be on top of their chores – without nagging.

BREED

Different breeds have different temperaments.

Some are wonderful with children; others want nothing to do with them. For that reason, Guinane recommends researching which breed will work best for your family. The American Kennel Club (akc.org) is a good place to start. It provides a comprehensive listing of breeds and their chief characteristics.

FEAR LEVEL

While we might have fond memories of our childhood pooches, that doesn’t mean our kids are dog people, too. “You have to ask yourself if your kids are afraid of animals. Have they been around different sizes of animals?

Were they comfortable?

Get your kids around animals. If they’re really afraid of dogs, it’s not a good idea. Let’s face it, big dogs are scary!”

BE HONEST

No matter how responsible your child may be, there’s a strong chance you’ll still be bearing the brunt of the work. “What are you willing to do?” asks Guinane. Figure out what your life is like and if you want to add a dog to it. Ask yourself if your family’s behaviors are changeable. Dogs need attention – and they need full attention.

Do you want to change your behaviors?

COST

Dogs are expensive.

Aside from food, costs include monthly heartworm and flea and tick preventives, vet visits, grooming, toys and gear (lashes, beds, etc.). “You have to ask yourself if you are willing to take on that expense.”

PROS AND CONS

To figure out if your family is ready for a dog, Guinane recommends making a pro and con list. “Write down why an animal would or would not fit with your family and go to bed. In the morning, look at the list. Ask yourself how an animal will fit into your world. If it doesn’t, that’s okay.”

23

LuLaRoe is a unique clothing line that brings comfort and fashion together with limited prints.

Sizes XXS to 3XL & childrens.

Host your in-home pop up party today or stop by Facebook, Wednesday night online pop ups 7-10pm.

2011805-01

Perform with the Stepper-ettes this Summer!

JOIN OUR SIX WEEK SPRING SESSION Monday April 3rd Through Monday, May 8th Class Meets From 7:00 pm - 7:45 pm

INCLUDES

Baton and Pom/Dance

Your student will be invited to perform in the following events this summer!

Elkhorn Parade Ralston Parade LaVista Parade Storm Chasers Game Millard Parade Henry Doorly Zoo Papillion Parade Performance

402-592-4545

www.stepperettestudios.com 24

Tips to help your dog and young children get along famously STORY David Codr PHOTOGRAPHY Heidi Thorson

A

s a dog behaviorist, I frequently hear from parents who are concerned about how their new dog and young children will get along. While these concerns are well-founded, dogs and kids can get along famously when the proper rules and structure are in place.

Dogs, especially puppies, are awfully cute, and many young children treat them as if they are teddy bears, hugging and kissing them non-stop. While we can find these interactions adorable, most dogs are not fans of hugs. Some grow to tolerate it, but many interpret a hug as dominating or restricting.

Distance is a big part of respect in the dog world. If a dog wants to take something from another dog, they don’t usually snatch it; they get in the other dog’s personal space and try to intimidate it.

If your dog has an item or is eating, sleeping or just hanging out, and your child gets in its face, this can startle them and provoke an instinctive response. A good rule is for children not to approach a dog when it’s eating, chewing a bone, playing with a toy or sleeping.

A great way to avoid conflicts is to teach your children to call the dog to come to them. If children want to pet or play with a dog who is chewing a bone, eating or otherwise occupied, I recommend training them to call the dog to come to them from a few feet away. If a dog approaches the child, that means it doesn’t feel threatened or need to defend territory or an item.

Speaking of territory, providing your dog with a sanctuary that it can retreat to is highly advisable. Most dogs will move away when overtired or in need of space.

If your children are too young to follow rules, then it’s important to come up with a place that the dog can go – and the children can’t. These kinds of spaces can include places or furniture that are out of the children’s reach.

SPRING ON INTO OUR NEW LOCATION

Spring Ridge Shopping Center at 180th & Pacific

NG SHIPPI LE! B AVAILA

David Codr from Dog Gone Problems is a dog behaviorist in Omaha. He writes a weekly dog behavior column for Momaha.com and fixes dog problems around the country.

• Holiday Parties • Customer Gifts • Corporate Events • Gift Baskets • Fundraisers • Bridal & Baby Showers

1223 S 180th Street | Omaha| 402.933.8698 www.popperista.com 2011567-01 Photo by Lemon and Lace Studios

One client I worked with had a baby gate on the stairs to keep the child from using them. Because the dog was small enough to fit through the bars, we trained it to use this outlet when it wanted space.

If your dog has no fear of the kennel, this can be a great option, provided the kids respect the rule that they are not allowed to pull the dog out of the kennel or go inside it.

This sanctuary is an often overlooked, yet very important option to provide your dog. I have read multiple case studies of dogs who had no history of aggression who bit a child because the child kept playing with the dog after it became overtired, communicated it was stressed out and repeatedly tried to move away.

Watch for a dog who licks its lips, yawns, bares teeth, has a stiff body posture, breathes heavily, holds its breath or displays what we call “whale eyes,” which are very wide eyes that show a lot of white.

If your dog displays any of these behaviors or growls, it’s important to not punish it. A growl is a warning, the opposite of aggression. If you reprimand your dog for communicating that way, it’s not unusual for them to move to the next step: a nip or bite.

Teaching your children how to properly interact with a dog is a valuable life lesson that will ensure your furry friend also becomes theirs.

LET US HELP YOU PLAN YOUR NEXT EVENT YO Y OUR UR NEX XT EVEN NT

Make a Wish...

Come celebrate your birthday with The Wonder Nook.

Classes * Activities Custom Birthday Parties & Mom’s Groups (402) 730-8462 • 10804 Prairie Hills Dr. • thewondernook.com

25

Get ORGanized // amy tOkOs Amy Tokos is a Certified Professional Organizer and the owner of Freshly Organized. You can find more organizing tips at freshlyorganized.com.

Corral those care products in a tidy cabinet

i

was recently watching one of my favorite shows, “Shark Tank.” Pet products were being highlighted and one of the presenters mentioned that in 2016 it was estimated that more than $60 billion would be spent on products for pets in the U.S. I can believe this. Our family has had many pets over the years, including dogs, cats, fish, hamsters, turtles, hermit crabs and even a gecko. There is so much out there to not only take care of, but also spoil your pet. And, being a dog lover myself, it’s hard to resist a treat for the pet that holds your heart.

When organizing your pets, consider their personalities and quirks. Let me share the story of our cat fountain as an example.

We keep the fountain in the kid’s bathroom because that’s where the cat likes to beg for water.

The fountain uses filters, and the spares floated around. First they were in the bathroom, then they got moved to the laundry room, then they got put with the fish supplies because, you know …

26

they were filters. Every time we needed a filter we would search all those places and eventually come across the filters.

Eventually I realized what was going on; I mean, I am a professional organizer and this shouldn’t be happening in my own house! My solution was to create a pet cabinet for all things pet-related. The monthly medicine for the dog, the extra filters for the cat fountain and turtle tank, the water conditioner for the fish. I think you know where this is going: anything that was not used on a daily basis went in this cabinet. This has saved me time and money as I no longer buy items I already have.

The other big challenge is remembering to give monthly medicines or schedule yearly vet checks. Make use of your calendar and set up recurring reminders and alarms if needed. Most importantly, if you have children, delegate the care of animals to your kids. It’s a great lesson in caring for others. And your pet will be happy and healthy.

QUICK TIPS • Keep what your pets love and need.

If there are toys or treats that they don’t like, get rid ofthem.

• Set clear boundaries on the number of pets and the space they can take up in your home. If you have a basket overflowing with pet toys, instead of getting another pet basket to accommodate more toys, clean out the current basket and make that your boundary. I’ve always told my kids we couldn’t have more pets than kids in the house. It was a boundary that worked for us.

• Keep daily used pet items at the point of use. The dog food by the dog dish, the fish food by the fish tank, etc.

• Keep all rarely used pet items in one location like a pet cupboard.

• Travel with your dog? Keep travel items together in your pet cupboard to make packing easier.

• Donate spare items to the pets in need at the Humane Society.

Leashes, toys, collars, towels and blankets can all be put to use.

Check the website for the long list of items they need.

Learn about animal behaviors and nutrition.

Explore a day in the life of a veterinarian.

Perform a simulated exploratory surgery.

It’s Never Too Early to Plan for Summer Learning. g

Interact with live animals each day.

Summer Bridge Workbooks

SAVE $25

BUY 1 GET 1

50% OFF!

ENTER THIS CODE AT CHECKOUT:

MOMB17 Junior Vet Camp

Intermediate Vet Camp

Students completing 2nd - 5th grade Mon. - Thurs. 8:00 am - 4:00 pm • June & July

Students completing 6th - 8th grade Mon. - Fri. 8:00 am - 4:00 pm • June & July

Good through 4/30/17 May not be combined with other offers or store credit.

For registration and information, visit: 2011643-01

2932 S. 84th St., Omaha NE 68124 | 402.763.8455 | www.learninghq.com 2011679-01

Pe r

f

r

g

or

m Ma in On ny g Ca e-w pe

rfo ar m e ps ek rm ts w fo & anc ra m

ca w e

u m w RE ges lti-w opp ps .r GIS 4-1 eek ortu 8, nit o T c & s ER be am ies e

cl t ON ginn ps a

as e h v r e LIN s to aila se a E ad ble t ! s va e nc r ed .o

www.oxbowvetcamp.com

SUMMER @ THE ROSE 27

28

Spring’s early veggie packs an instant zing RECIPE PREPARATION, STYLING + PHOTOGRAPHY Heidi Thorson

QUICK FACTS

SWEET

Here’s a handful of tidbits about radishes.

Chilled Strawberry radiSh Soup Makes about 4 cups

1. In a food processor, puree 3 cups sliced strawberries, 1 cup plain Greek yogurt, ½ cup white grape juice, ¼ cup sliced radishes and 3 tablespoons honey until smooth. 2. Cover and chill for at least 2 hours. 3. To serve, garnish with fresh ground pepper, julienne sliced radishes and shredded mint leaves.

Recipe adapted from beardandbonnet.com

1. Because they grow rapidly, radish plants are ideal for children’s gardens. The seeds begin to germinate 3 to 4 days after planting and can be harvested 3 to 6 weeks later. Webmd.com 2. In Mexico, the annual Noche de Rabanos (Night of Radishes) festival takes place 24 hours prior to Christmas Eve. Mexican sculptors create nativity and other various scenes using radishes. Fooducate.com 3. Radishes are made up of mostly water, which makes them very filling and low in calories – less than 20 per cup. Fullcircle.com 4. Radishes are most commonly eaten raw and in salads.

Fooducate.com 5. The health benefits of radishes are extensive, ranging from stomach detoxification, respiratory disorder relief, cancer prevention and fever and pain reduction.

Organicfacts.net

GET MORE LIKES AT THE DINNER TABLE. HEALTHYKOHLSKIDS.COM 29

SIMPLE

3 -INGREDIENT FRUIT DIP

Makes 2 cups 1. In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups vanilla Greek yogurt, 3 tablespoons peanut butter and 1 tablespoon honey. 2. Serve with sliced apples, bananas and strawberries. TIP: Cover and refrigerate for up to three days.

Recipe adapted from cookingclassy.com

30

SIMPLE

CitRus, beet & Radish salad Serves 4

1. Using a sharp knife, trim the peel from 1 grapefruit and 2 navel oranges, removing as much of the white pith as possible, and place into a large bowl. 2. Thinly slice 2 golden beets and about 8 radishes and add them to the bowl.

3. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons olive oil and toss until well combined. 4. To serve, arrange on a plate and top with fresh ground pepper and sliced almonds.

TIP: Not a fan of beets? Swap them for carrots.

Recipe adapted from realsimple.com

SAVORY

Cabbage, Radish, apple Coleslaw Serves 8

1. Combine 5 cups green cabbage, 1 cup julienne sliced granny smith apple, 8 julienne sliced radishes, 2 tablespoons white onion, finely diced, in a large mixing bowl. 2. To make the dressing, add ¼ cup sugar, ¼ cup vinegar, 1½ tablespoons water, 1½ tablespoons olive oil, a dash of powdered mustard and a dash of salt and pepper to taste in a jar. Shake until well combined. 3. Add dressing to cabbage mixture and stir well. Cover and chill in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

TIP: The mayo-less dressing makes this refreshing, light side dish perfect for potlucks.

Recipe adapted from blackberrybabe.com

31

ADVICE FOR A BETTER LIFE COMPILED by Momaha Magazine

SHARING AND CARING

Learning and recognizing social skills can be challenging for children with autism. A 2012 French study indicates that autistic children who receive a family pet specifically around age 4 or 5 demonstrate significant improvement in two social skills: sharing with others and comforting people in distress. The same benefit did not exist for autistic children who grew up with family pets since birth. Time Magazine

A FRIEND IN NEED

Everyone has a bad day or gets sad. As adults, we turn to friends or loved ones for a sympathetic ear. Kids, on the other hand, often rely on the family pet for a shoulder to cry on. “This points to the importance of pets as a source of comfort and developing empathy,” said Dr. James Griffin, deputy branch chief at the National Institute of Health’s Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development.

Man’s best friend may also be your child’s. NIH News in Health

HEART HEALTHY

Owning a pet, particularly a dog, can lower blood pressure and even decrease the likelihood of dying of a heart attack. Dog owners get 54 percent more exercise than non-pet owners, and the social interaction that often occurs around dog ownership is a major mood booster, which results in lower blood pressure.

Walk time! American Heart Association

SNEEZE SAVER

You might think having a pet – and all the fur and dander that goes with it – increases the likelihood of developing allergies, but the opposite is true. Studies at the University of Wisconsin-Madison revealed that having a pet can lower a child’s chances of developing allergies by as much as a whopping 33 percent.

Fido or Snowball can stave off a lot of sniffles, scratchy eyes and sneezes! Animal Planet

ALZHEIMER’S AID

Pets can be a major boon to people suffering from Alzheimer’s.

In addition to lowering anxiety and depression, a dog or cat may trigger happy childhood memories. Studies even show when a pet is in a home, Alzheimer’s patients have fewer anxious outbursts and caregivers feel less burdened. WebMD

SUMMER CAMPS 132nd & Millard Ave.

www.schoolofrock.com 402.691.8875 32

2011634-01

MA R 24 - AP R 9

A lifelong

AY 7 APR 21 - M

JUNE 2 - 18

LOVE

of theater

STARTS

here.

There is nothing like a night at the theater! The Rose is proud to introduce children to the arts and ignite a lifelong love of performing arts. Whether they are floating down the Mississippi with Huck Finn or soaring through the air with Peter Pan, The Rose is dedicated to opening imaginations and hearts through theater. Bring your family to the theater TODAY!

2017-18 MEMBERSHIPS ON SALE APRIL 1 TICKETS: (402) 345-4849 or www.rosetheater.org 2011625-01