'hood Magazine Jan/Feb 2026

‘hood JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026

SIOUX EMPIRE’S FAMILY RESOURCE

Celebrating Birthdays With Intention

let ’s 16th Annual Birthday Party Planning Guide

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Give your child the freedom to dream with CollegeAccess 529 No gift is greater than an education.

To learn how to start saving today visit www.collegeaccess529.com.

Investors should consider the investment objectives, risks, and charges and expenses of the CollegeAccess 529 plan before investing. This and other important information is in the Plan Disclosure Statement, available at www.CollegeAccess529.com. Read the Plan Disclosure Statement carefully before investing.

Before investing, you should consider whether your state of residency, or your intended beneficiary’s state of residency, offers a state tax deduction or any other state benefits such as financial aid, scholarship funds, and protection from creditors that are only available for investments in that state’s 529 savings program.

The CollegeAccess 529 Plan is issued by the South Dakota Higher Education Savings Trust. The Program Manager and Underwriter for the CollegeAccess 529 Plan is VP Distributors, LLC, One Financial Plaza, Hartford, CT 06103, 800-243-4361.

Certain of the investment management firms that manage underlying mutual Funds in the Program, including Virtus Investment Advisers, LLC, are affiliated with the Program Manager.

Only South Dakota residents and Account Owners who designate a South Dakota resident as Beneficiary can invest directly in the CollegeAccess 529 Plan. Certain Portfolios are not available to those who invest directly. Residents of states other than South Dakota can invest in the CollegeAccess 529 Plan only through a financial professional. Additional fees apply for investments made through a financial professional. Please see the Plan Disclosure Statement for details. State taxes may apply for residents of states other than South Dakota.

Notice: CollegeAccess 529 Plan accounts are not insured by any state, and neither the principal deposited nor any investment return is guaranteed by any state.

In Education and Childcare Presented by:

‘hood Magazin e’s Educator an d Childcare Prov ider of the Ye ar Awards honor the outs tanding indivi du al s who make a di fference in our ch ildren’s lives every day.

Nominate a de serving teacher or ch ildcare provid er and help us recogn ize their dedica tion and impact!

from January 1st-31st Go to thehoodmagazine.com for more information.

Thank you to our additional 2026 Sponsors

If you would like to partner with us to celebrate these amazing Educators, contact us at admin@thehoodmagazine.com

welcome

‘hood

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Celebrate the Kids

SIOUX EMPIRE’S FAMILY RESOURCE

President & Publisher

Steffanie Holtrop 605-366-1479 steff@thehoodmagazine.com

Editor Sarah Parker

Art & Design Director Ally Chase

Digital Media Director Jaclyn Small

Client Relations

Jennifer Fleming admin@thehoodmagazine.com

Calendar Abby Kyle

Circulation Ben Graff and Laura Kattenberg

There’s something magical about birthdays! As parents, these milestones remind us how special it is to watch our children grow. That joy is exactly what inspired this issue of ‘hood Magazine!

Contributing Photos BLue Hour Creative

‘hood JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026

TM

SIOUX EMPIRE’S FAMILY RESOURCE

Inside, you’ll find our 16th annual Birthday and Party Planning Directory—your go-to guide for local venues, entertainment, and services ready to help make your child’s big day unforgettable. From energetic indoor play spaces to creative party pros who know how to bring the fun, we’re thrilled to highlight so many wonderful Sioux Falls–area businesses that love helping families celebrate.

If you’re looking for even more inspiration, be sure to explore our expanded online birthday resources at thehoodmagazine.com. Inside this issue, you will also hear from a local mom, Melissa, about how she makes birthdays special for her four girls.

As always, thank you for welcoming ’hood Magazine into your home and for supporting the local businesses that help make our community such an amazing place to raise a family. Here’s to another year of candles, joy, and celebrating the kids who make life so sweet.

Steff

Steffanie Holtrop Publisher

4 | January/February 2026 | thehoodmagazine.com

Celebrating Birthdays With Intention

let ’s 16th Annual Birthday Party Planning Guide

Reproduction or use of the contents of this magazine is prohibited.

‘Hood Magazine is published 7 times a year by Hoodlum Productions, LLC and strives to publish only accurate information; however, Hoodlum Productions, LLC cannot be held responsible for consequences resulting from errors or omissions. All material in this magazine is the property of Hoodlum Productions, LLC and cannot be reproduced without permission of the publisher. ©2026 Hoodlum Productions, LLC All Rights Reserved.

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JANUARY/ FEBRUARY

‘hood

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2026

SIOUX EMPIRE’S FAMILY RESOURCE

COVER STORIES 16 Celebrating Birthdays With Intention

Meet the Leuning Family

20 1 6th Annual Birthday

& Party Planning Guide

IN EVERY ISSUE 6 Calendar

‘hood Featured Events

31 Ask the Expert Laurie Nold

Sanford Wellness Center

Erin Vande Lune

Flourish Wellness & Birth Co.

Avera Behavioral Health

16 FEATURES 8 C hildhood Anxiety: How

12 Welcome To Winter at

Sponsored by LifeScape Therapy

Sponsored by Sioux Falls Parks and Recreation

to Recognize the Signs and Support Your Child Early

Jacobson Plaza

SPECIAL SERIES 11 Raising MoneySmart Kids

Teaching the Joy of Giving Back

IN THIS ISSUE 10 Indoor Play in the

12

Sioux Falls Area

Great for the Winter Months

14 S hare The Love Giving Back to the Sioux Falls Area

‘hood FEATURED EVENTS

The Sioux Falls Area is full of events for the whole family! Check out some of our favorite upcoming events below.

Tuthill Winter Games

Tuthill Park Celebrate the season with friendly competition and winter fun from Sioux Falls Parks and Recreation. Enjoy cardboard toboggan races, human curling, and more.

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JAN

january 10

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Preschool Preview Day Bishop O’Gorman Catholic Schools

Explore our elementary schools, view our programs, and meet our teachers by attending one of our preschool preview events. January 23rd from 8am-9am at each of our elementary schools.

Sioux Falls Stampede vs.

The Sioux City Musketeers

Denny Sanford PREMIER Center Enjoy a hockey game and support our local team!

FEB

JAN

30- 1

MRS. DOUBTFIRE The Washington Pavilion

JAN

Experience the family-friendly musical comedy MRS. DOUBTFIRE at the Washington Pavilion.

Full of humor and heart, the show delivers four performances Jan 30 through Feb 1.

23-24

The Toughest Monster Truck Tour

The Denny Sanford PREMIER Center The Toughest Monster Truck Tour is back-NOW with an earlier, afternoon show on Saturday!

This show is on dirt- which makes everything better! Get ready to see your favorite monster trucks, plus the freestyle motocross team.

6 | January/February 2026 | thehoodmagazine.com

february 6 Sioux Falls Skyforce vs.

Maine Celtics

Sanford Pentagon Join the force family and take in a home basketball game at the Sanford Pentagon.

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Eric Church: Free the Machine Tour

Denny Sanford PREMIER Center Enjoy a date night out with Eric Church! Get out of the house to enjoy some great music.

Snow Ball

Children’s Museum of South Dakota The Snow Ball winter formal is sure to be a special night for children and their grown-up! Take to the dance floor and enjoy the museum.

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FEB

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Spring Class Registration The Outdoor Campus

Spring is coming, and you’re invited to all the fun FREE spring outdoor programming opportunities. From fishing to turkey hunting, there’s a class that is right for your family.

28 FEB

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NSIC Basketball Tournament Sanford Pentagon

It’s the start of the men’s and women’s Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference Basketball Tournament!

The tournament runs February 28 - March 3, 2026.

MallWalk Empire Mall

We’ll walk ‘n’ roll to raise funds for children and adults at LifeScape!

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Ice Fishing 101 Family Park

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Winter Farmers Market Mosaic Arts and Events

The Falls Park Farmers Market is moving indoors for the winter. Shop from a variety of vendors for produce, flowers, baked goods, custom art, and more.

FEB

Brave the cold with The Outdoor Campus and Sioux Falls Parks and Rec to try out ice fishing.

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MOULIN ROUGE! The Musical The Washington Pavilion Make it a girls’ day out with MOULIN ROUGE! THE MUSICAL, a stunning Broadway hit packed with iconic music and breathtaking visuals.

UPCOMING EVENT? Reach out to us to have YOUR event featured in our next issue or online calendar!

For a complete list of area events, check out our online Calendar! thehoodmagazine.com/calendar

January/February 2026 | thehoodmagazine.com | 7

SPONSORED BY LIFESCAPE THERAPY

CHILDHOOD ANXIETY: How to Recognize the Signs and Support Your Child Early It’s normal for kids to feel nervous before a big test, shy around new people, or worry about a storm outside. But when those worries stick around, become overwhelming, or start affecting daily life, like school, friendships, or sleep, it may be something more.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about one in ten children between ages 3 and 17 in the U.S. have been diagnosed with an anxiety disorder.

The good news is that anxiety is highly treatable and early support can make all the difference.

UNDERSTANDING CHILDHOOD ANXIETY

If these signs sound familiar, know that help is available and early support can prevent anxiety from growing into bigger challenges.

Anxiety can show up in different ways: • General worry about everyday things • S ocial fears like being judged or embarrassed • S eparation anxiety or trouble being away from caregivers • P hobias about specific things, such as animals or storms Younger children often can’t explain what they’re feeling, so their anxiety might show through behavior or physical symptoms. A child who suddenly has stomachaches, avoids activities they used to enjoy, or constantly seeks reassurance may be struggling with anxiety.

SIGNS TO WATCH FOR Every child is different, but these are some common signs: • Frequent worries or fears, even when things seem ok • Avoiding school, friends, or new experiences • Stomachaches, headaches, or trouble sleeping • Irritability or clinginess • Constantly asking for reassurance

HOW TO HELP AT HOME Children thrive when they feel seen, supported, and safe. Parents and caregivers can make a big impact with a few key steps: • Listen first. Let your child know their feelings are valid and safe to talk about.

• M odel calm. Kids notice our emotions, which is why showing steady, calm behavior can help them regulate their own.

• T each small skills. Breathing exercises, visualizing a “calm place,” or breaking tasks into smaller steps can reduce anxiety.

• K eep routines consistent. Predictability helps anxious kids feel secure.

And if anxiety is getting in the way of daily life, talking to a therapist who specializes in children can make a tremendous difference.

THE POWER OF EARLY SUPPORT LifeScape’s therapists work closely with families to help children build confidence and develop tools to manage their emotions.

Through play-based approaches and practical strategies, kids learn that they can face their fears and thrive.

With understanding, patience, and early support, children can learn to navigate anxiety and grow into emotionally strong, confident individuals.

To learn more, visit us online at LifeScapeSD.org

January/February 2026 | thehoodmagazine.com | 9

Indoor Play

in the Sioux Falls Area When winter settles into the Sioux Falls Area, cold temperatures, snow, and icy winds can make outdoor play a challenge. But even on the chilliest days, kids still need space to move, explore, and burn off energy. Thankfully, our community offers plenty of indoor options where children can run, jump, climb, and play!

Indoor play spaces are a lifesaver for families during the winter months. They give kids the chance to stay active, socialize, and have fun.

Whether you’re looking for free, low-key options or high-energy adventures, the Sioux Falls Area has something for every age and interest.

Here are just a few indoor play options in the Sioux Falls Area to check out!

• Westside Recreation Center • All American Gymnastics • The Siouxland Libraries • We Rock the Spectrum • Urban Adventures Center • Midco Aquatic Center • KidStrong Sioux Falls • The Washington Pavilion • 605 Ninja • Wings Gymnastics • Bounce Around Inflatables • Skate City • Sky Zone • Thunder Road For more indoor place recommendations, make sure to check out our full Indoor Play Guide online at thehoodmagazine.com.

10 | January/February 2026 | thehoodmagazine.com

by Sarah Kurtenbach

Raising Generous Kids: Teaching the Joy of Giving Back “Mommy, this is soooo boring. When can we go shopping for me?” my 4-year-old groaned as we browsed the aisles for Christmas gifts—not for her, but for kids in need. Ah yes, the sweet sound of early childhood generosity…or something like it.

The truth is, generosity doesn’t come naturally to every kid (or every adult, if we’re being honest). But that’s exactly why we get the privilege of teaching our children that giving isn’t just the right thing to do, it’s actually joyful, empowering, and even fun.

Here are four ways to raise kids who love giving back:

1

Teach Them Early to Budget for “Giving”

When your child earns money (and yes, earning through chores is far more powerful than a guaranteed weekly allowance), help them sort it into three categories: Give, Save, Spend. This simple habit teaches them that a portion of their money always has a purpose beyond themselves.

Over time, “giving” becomes as normal as buying Pokémon cards or begging for snacks 10 minutes after lunch.

2

Let Passion Lead the Way

Kids are far more excited to give when the cause matches something they adore. Are they obsessed with animals? Music? Church? Space exploration?

Help them direct their “Give” money toward causes they naturally care about. When generosity is tied to something that lights them up, their excitement and willingness increase.

3

Model Giving (They’re Watching!)

Kids learn far more from what we do than what we say. Show them that you also budget for giving each month. Talk about the organizations you support and why. Bring them along when donating groceries, packing care boxes, or shopping for someone in need. The more your kids see generosity in action, the more they’ll understand it as a normal part of life, not a holidayonly event.

5

Make the Impact Visible

Kids thrive on seeing results. Instead of dropping money into a mysterious bin, involve them in choosing a cause, tracking where the funds go, or viewing photos and stories of the people or animals helped. Research shows that knowing the impact of giving actually boosts happiness (yes, even in kids).

Pro Tip: Ask, “If you had $10 to help someone this week, who would it be?” You’ll learn a lot about their little hearts. Teaching generosity takes time, patience, and a few deep breaths. But one day, they’ll get it. And when they do, the joy is pure magic. l

Sarah is a local mom of two who knows a thing or two about financial literacy.

She is the founder of moveHER Money, where she teaches girls how to be financially savvy.

January/February 2026 | thehoodmagazine.com | 11

SPONSORED BY SIOUX FALLS PARKS AND RECREATION

WELCOME TO AT From a magical refrigerated ice skate ribbon to a cozy lodge and holiday lights, Sioux Falls’ newest destination is the perfect place to embrace the season. Here’s what you can do at Jacobson Plaza to make the most of winter!

Skate the Ribbon This 14,000-square-foot outdoor skating facility is South Dakota’s first-ever winter ice ribbon, offering a family-friendly ice skating experience all season long. Unlike a traditional rink, The Ribbon is a meandering, 20-foot-wide loop nearly two football fields long, allowing skaters to glide along a refrigerated path under the glow of ambient lighting and music and stop at firepits along the way.

12 | January/February 2026 | thehoodmagazine.com

Each 45-minute skating session is $5 per person, with skates available to rent for $3 in both youth and adult sizes - or bring your own and make it a family tradition.

Supervised skating hours vary. Check explorethefalls.org for the most current schedule, skate sizes, and hours.

Enjoy Festive Activities Be sure to check the Parks & Recreation calendar for seasonal events at the Falls, which often coordinate with the lights: • The Annual Winter Wonderland: The entire Falls Area transforms into a spectacular holiday light display from late November through early January each year.

• Cocoa Strolls: Enjoy a behind-the-scenes look at the lights while sipping hot cocoa from The Lodge.

• Themed Skates: Look for special skate events like “Mascot Monday,”“Family Fun Skate,” and “Prince and Princess Skate Party.”

Go to recreation.siouxfalls.gov for more.

There are skate assistants available to use!

Warm up at The Lodge Step inside The Lodge and be enveloped by a warm, welcoming atmosphere. For a quick refuel, enjoy a hot bite or an artisan scoop of Parlour ice cream. You can also grab a cup of hot cocoa, which is the perfect way to thaw out fingers and toes after a spin on the ice. They also offer a full bar with adult beverages to further enhance your cozy evening.

The Lodge is available to rent for private parties in its cozy party room, best suited for groups of up to 20–25 guests. We recommend setups of 16 seats for the most comfortable experience. When booking the party room, guests also receive access to discounted skate time, perfect for birthdays, holiday gatherings, or casual celebrations.

Outdoor fire pits nearby help round out the festive atmosphere.

Visit thelodgeplaza.com for hours, the menu, and party reservations.

Plan Your Visit by checking out explorethefalls.org 810 N Phillips Ave, Sioux Falls, SD 57104 (Near Falls Park) Phone: 605-367-8222 Email: parksandrec@siouxfalls.gov

FEELING “RUFF”? by ‘hood Staff

Share the Love:

Giving Back to the Sioux Falls Area

GREAT CARE FOR EVERY MEMBER OF YOUR FAMILY!

Valentine’s Day is often celebrated with flowers, chocolates, and sweet gestures. But what if we used this season of love to also do something a bit bigger? February is the perfect time to remind our children, and ourselves, that love isn’t only something we say, it’s also something we show. One way we can show love is by giving back to the incredible community we’re lucky to call home.

Volunteering as a family helps kids see firsthand how their actions can make a difference. It teaches empathy, builds confidence, and creates memories rooted in kindness. The Sioux Falls Area offers many volunteer opportunities that your family can serve with.

Here are six places in the Sioux Falls area where families can serve:

The Bishop Dudley Hospitality House CENTER FOR FAMILY MEDICINE

1115 E. 20TH STREET SIOUX FALLS, SD 57105 605-339-1783

Minimum age: Parent Supervision for those under 18, some tasks you must be 18 The Bishop Dudley House offers services for individuals and families in need.

Volunteers help with meal prep, cleaning, donation sorting, and hospitality.

14 | January/February 2026 | thehoodmagazine.com

The Outdoor Campus Minimum age: 12 If your family loves nature, volunteering at The Outdoor Campus is a great fit.

The Banquet Minimum age: Those under 9 must volunteer with a parent The Banquet provides hot meals to community members, and volunteers play a major role in preparing and serving food.

Feeding South Dakota Minimum age: 11-13 with a parent, 14-17 with a signed waiver Families can help sort, pack, and distribute food that supports thousands of local families.

Ronald McDonald House – Meals From the Heart Minimum age: Families welcome; parents must supervise children Prepare a meal for families staying at the Ronald McDonald Houses in Sioux Falls.

This volunteer opportunity allows kids of all ages (with supervision) to help serve families navigating medical challenges.

Necessities for Neighbors Minimum age: 10 Help give members of our community the necessities they need. Help with set-up, distribution, and clean-up.

Take the time this February to share the love and find a way to love our amazing communities here in the Sioux Falls Area. For more ideas of where to serve as a family, check out The Helpline Center. l January/February 2026 | thehoodmagazine.com | 15

Celebrating Birthdays with Intention

cover feature

16 | January/February 2026 | thehoodmagazine.com

by Sarah Parker Family photo by Sidney Ruedy Photography

Dustin and Melissa are parents to four daughters, Esmae, Everly, Ruby, and Veda, and call the Sioux Falls Area home. As a family, they embrace a full, active life rooted in togetherness, creativity, and community. They are also the owners behind Blue Hour Creative, a local photography business that allows them to tell meaningful stories through their work. That same creative spirit shows up in their home life as well, especially when it comes to celebrating their children!

As a creative, Melissa naturally gravitates toward hands-on, DIY birthday celebrations. Each year, she pours thought and care into planning parties that reflect who each child is in that season of life. For Melissa, birthdays aren’t about extravagance or trends; they’re about creating moments that feel personal, joyful, and memorable for their girls.

Why Birthdays Are Intentional in Their Home While birthdays are certainly fun in Melissa’s home, they are careful to keep the focus on something deeper. She strives to make space for each of her girls to feel recognized, celebrated, and valued.

They hope that the girls feel deeply loved on their birthdays, the kind of love that stays long after the celebrations end. It’s about honoring exactly where their girls are at their current stage of life, showing the girls how much they matter and how thankful they are to have them in their family.

from the start. Each child chooses their birthday “cake,” which may look different every year, sometimes ice cream, sometimes donuts, sometimes something entirely unique. They also get to pick an activity to enjoy that day, making the celebration feel entirely their own.

Larger friend parties happen later, allowing the family to focus first on connection before opening the celebration up to others.

Planning with Purpose and Involving the Girls Involving the kids is a big part of how birthdays come together in Dustin and Melissa’s home. Each girl has input in their celebration, from choosing their theme to helping with decorations and ideas. Melissa often starts by creating a mood board, laying everything out so the party feels cohesive, especially since the older girls often do a combined party with different themes.

Each girl’s actual birthday is spent together as a family.

Mornings begin with decorated doors and a festive living room, setting the tone for a day that feels special January/February 2026 | thehoodmagazine.com | 17

Themes That Bring the Fun Over the years, the Leunings have brought a variety of birthday themes to life, each one reflecting the interests and ages of their girls.

One standout favorite for Melissa was Camp Leuning, a camp-themed party that turned into a memorable experience for kids and adults alike. The theme invited everyone to join in, and many of the parents stayed, participated, and genuinely enjoyed the celebration. It was the kind of party that felt relaxed, fun, and community-centered.

More recently, a combined Barbie and Squishmallows party perfectly captured the personalities of

their older girls. Bright, playful, and full of character, it celebrated a stage of childhood that Melissa knows won’t last forever. For their youngest daughter’s first birthday, they leaned into a soft, elegant Golden theme. Simple, sweet, and fitting for such a special milestone.

Each theme may look different, but the heart behind them remains the same.

The Joy of Making Birthdays Special Birthdays offer a chance for parents to slow down in the middle of busy family life and intentionally celebrate a child for who they are. They don’t need to be elaborate or expensive to be meaningful.

Sometimes it’s the small details like a favorite treat, a loved activity, or a room filled with loved ones that leave the biggest impression.

For kids, feeling seen and celebrated builds confidence and connection. For parents, these moments become memories that linger long after the candles are blown out. Remember, birthdays are less about the party itself and more about the message behind it: you matter, you are loved, and your presence is worth celebrating. l

18 | January/February 2026 | thehoodmagazine.com

Join The Birthday Club and get a FREE gift from Prairie Farms®, plus other freebies & discounts!

For children ages 16 or younger

birthday freebies and discounts

Sign up for FREE on our website!

how it works

special offers exclusive to birthday club members

scan to join!

Special offers and discounts will be sent to your email 45 days prior to your child’s birthday to help plan their celebration. On the date of their birthday, coupons and/or offers from our partners will be emailed to you, redeemable for the specified time on each offer. Scan the QR code to join.

January/February 2026 | thehoodmagazine.com | 19

let ’s 16th Annual Birthday Party Planning Guide Birthdays are some of the most joyful days of the year for families, but planning one can come with plenty of pressure. Finding a venue or service that fits your family perfectly can be hard. That’s where we come in!

Our Birthday and Party Planning Guide is packed with fun, local resources to help make your child’s special day stress-free and unforgettable. Whether you’re planning a cozy celebration or a big bash, you’ll find ideas and inspiration to bring their birthday dreams to life—right here in the Sioux Falls Area!

party servives

Sign Gypsies Sioux Falls signgypsiessf.com Price: Packages start at $85 Sign Gypsies brings the party to your yard with big, colorful, custom signs that make birthdays feel extra special. With hundreds of unique elements, you’ll get a one-of-a-kind display that will make your celebration unforgettable. We handle setup and pickup so you can just enjoy the moment.

ABC Rentals Special Events abcrentalsmidwest.com/ special-events Price: Varies We rent everything you need for a party! We have tents, tables, chairs, linens, dishes, and even concession equipment such as cotton candy machines, popcorn machines, snow cone machines, chocolate fountains, hot dog rollers, and more! Check out our website or stop by our showroom to see everything we offer.

Solis Photography, LLC solisphotoportraits.com Price: Sessions start at $375 High-end boutique studio based in Sioux Falls, SD. Specialized in children, family, and maternity. My studio is available by appointment and by email. I can’t wait to work with you!

Little Social Party Rentals littlesocial.play Price: Packages start at $100 Playful meets pretty! Little Social offers soft play, ball pits, décor, and more—all curated for stylish, unforgettable celebrations. We bring the party so you can enjoy the moment!

January/February 2026 | thehoodmagazine.com | 21

party servives

Brandy’s Custom Cakery facebook.com/ BrandysCustomCakery Price: Varies Check out Brandy’s to make any event that much sweeter! From birthdays to weddings and so much more, she does quality work without breaking your budget.

Bounce Around Inflatables bouncearound-inflatables.com Price: Packages start at $249 Indoor Party options during the winter months!

Includes 4 different inflatables, a toddler area, and a gaming area plus tables & chairs! Private parties only, so you have the entire area for you and your guests for 2 hours! Use code HOOD2026 to save 10% off online orders.

22 | January/February 2026 | thehoodmagazine.com

2025 Hood FINAL.PDF

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January/February 2026 | thehoodmagazine.com | 23

The Gift Of FUN! Without the house full of stuff!

HyperBowling Mini Bowling 7D Theater 2-Story Laser Tag Omni Arena VR Bumper Cars Large Arcade Event Rooms

+ Rev It Up Grille

Every day is a new adventure when you create your own construction zone!

Use blocks, wood, bricks, and other found items to build without limits at the Children’s Museum of South Dakota.

Show us your designs at #PlayAlong SD

Up to 4 Players!

201 N. Kiwanis Ave. Sioux Falls 605-334-4181

ThunderRoadSiouxFalls.com

Join us in the spring foroutdoor fun!

Go-Karts, Mini Golf, Euro Bungy Tilt-A-Whirl & More!

24 | January/February 2026 | thehoodmagazine.com

party venues

Wings Gymnastics Academy wingsgym.com Price: Packages start at $205

Midco® Aquatic Center siouxfalls.gov/midco Price: $50/hour per room

Flexible party during open gym: $205 (2 hours). Exclusive use of our party room with basic party decorations and paper products.

You provide birthday treats, food, presents, etc. Private Party $250: (90 mins) coach-led.

ALL set-up, clean-up, and gift thank-you list tracking is handled by our staff. Add-ons available!

Host your next birthday at the Midco® Aquatic Center! Enjoy stress-free fun with indoor pools and fully equipped party rooms.

We have four individual rooms available that can be combined into two larger spaces. It’s the perfect, easy way to dive into fun for any group!

We Rock The Spectrum Kid’s Gym - Sioux Falls werockthespectrumsiouxfalls.com Price: Packages start at $199

Washington Pavilion WashingtonPavilion.org Price: Packages start at $166.50

Swings, zip slider, trampoline, infant/toddler area, private party room, and more! Enjoy 2 hours of birthday magic where all kids are welcome. Packages include 14+ kids starting at $199. We’re open seven days a week, making unforgettable celebrations easy to schedule.

We do the work; you just have fun! Parties include a private room, admission to the Kirby Science Discovery Center and Visual Arts Center, set up and clean up. Book today and celebrate your next birthday, complete with space travel, dinosaurs, and more!

For more information, contact: education@WashingtonPavilion.org.

January/February 2026 | thehoodmagazine.com | 25

Sioux Falls Zoo & Aquarium GreatZoo.org Price: Packages start at $200

Galaxy Gaming thegalaxygaming.com Price: Packages start at $89

Celebrate your special day at the Great Plains Zoo or Butterfly House & Aquarium! With customizable party options, plan an unforgettable birthday bash with your animal friends and fun for everyone. Parties include a reserved space, admission, a scavenger hunt, and more!

Laser Tag, Gel Blaster, Social Gaming, and Virtual Reality—all under one roof! Galaxy Gaming is your go-to destination in Sioux Falls for unforgettable indoor fun. Locally owned and operated, we’re proud to provide a high-energy, family-friendly experience for gamers of all ages.

26 | January/February 2026 | thehoodmagazine.com

party venues

Children’s Museum of South Dakota prairieplay.org Price: $275 (Members save 20%) Planning a birthday party at the Children’s Museum of South Dakota is a piece of cake!

We do all the prep, set-up, and clean-up, so all you have to do is enjoy the party. We offer engaging, hands-on party experiences designed to ignite imagination, nurture creativity, and encourage open-ended exploration.

Great Shots greatshots.golf/product/ kids-birthday-parties Price: Packages starting at $25/child Packages are available Sunday through Thursday (anytime), Friday (11am—5pm), and Saturday (9am—3pm). They include food, drink, dessert, and golf!

Urban Adventure Center adventurebeginshere.org/uac Price: Varies Looking for the ultimate birthday bash?

Celebrate at the Urban Adventure Center in Sioux Falls! With thrilling activities and top-notch amenities, we make birthdays unforgettable!

605 Ninja 605ninja.com Price: Parties starting at $169 We offer the BEST parties in Sioux Falls.

Our gym is full of fun obstacles and unique experiences for kids to try. Kids ALWAYS leave sweating & smiling. Parents always leave saying I would have loved this as a kid.

Book your child’s unforgettable party today!

January/February 2026 | thehoodmagazine.com | 27

Color Me Mine Sioux Falls siouxfalls.colormemine.com Price: Varies

Sioux Falls Skyforce sfskyforce.com/partypack Price: Packages start at just $99

The perfect place to celebrate your child’s special day! We provide everything you need to get creative at the party. Book your date online or call the studio to reserve your day.

We put the ART in pARTy!

Celebrate with the Skyforce! Our all-inclusive Party Packs make planning a slam dunk.

Customize your package with everything from tickets to food and drinks to unforgettable in-game experiences for the whole group. The entertainment is built right in, making it the easiest way to celebrate a birthday for any age.

FU N CRUISE

We re Cruisain g to

CELEBRATE WITH THE SKYFORCE!

PLAY,May Saturday, KNOW, 30th a n d G R O 9am-2pm again th W is July!

Level up your birthday with a Skyforce Party Pack!

Pick your package, bring the crew, and we’ll handle the fun. Limited availability for each home game.

BIRTHDAY PARTY PACKS START AT

$

99

SCAN THE QR CODE or go to sfskyforce.com/partypack for more information or to book your party

28 | January/February 2026 | thehoodmagazine.com

Find more information at:

thehoodmagazine.com/familyfest

or email: admin@thehoodmagazine.com

party venues

EmBe embe.org/rentals Price: See website for pricing Make your next party a hit for all ages!

Whether you want to make a splash in our pool, rent gym space and enjoy indoor fun with gym toys, or use a conference room to host an end-of-season party, we make it easy and hassle-free. We provide tables and chairs set up, ensuring that your family and friends have a fantastic time!

Skate City skatecitysd.com Price: Starting at $125 Celebrate big on wheels! Our Roller Skating Birthday Party Packages start at just $125 and includes admission, Skate Rental, a reserved, fully decorated table, ice cream cups, and soda for all skaters. The birthday person gets a special t-shirt, a free month of skating, and bonus game play—fun made effortless!

Birthday

Parties Explore · Play · Celebrate We do the work; you just have fun!

Book today and celebrate your next birthday with us!

For more information, contact us at education@WashingtonPavilion.org.

WashingtonPavilion.org/Birthday January/February 2026 | thehoodmagazine.com | 29

party venues

KidStrong Sioux Falls siouxfalls.kidstrong.com Price: Packages start at $300 WHAT TO EXPECT: Dedicated use of the entire facility, custom KidStrong activities, two expert KidStrong coaches, a 1.5-hour VIP private party, set-up and clean-up so you can relax, flexibility to bring your choice of cake, food, and drinks, and an action-packed and fun experience!

Reptile Adventure Zoo reptileadventurezoo.com Price: $275 $275 for a 2-hour reservation in our party room for up to 18 people (kids and adults).

This includes admission to the zoo for a specific time frame and a private animal encounter in the party room.

30 | January/February 2026 | thehoodmagazine.com

Sky Zone Sioux Falls skyzone.com/siouxfalls Price: : Packages start at $219.99 We don’t just want you to have the best birthday party or event you’ve ever had; we also want it to be the easiest. We offer standard packages, but every party is completely customizable. It is your party, after all.

Thunder Road Entertainment thunderroadsiouxfalls.com/ group-parties/birthday-parties Price: Eat & Play Packages $259-$359 Thunder Road Entertainment has awesome food from Rev it up Grille and the best entertainment in town! We have 2-Story Laser-Tag, Mini-Bowling, Bumper Cars, Arcade, 7D Theater, and Hyper-Bowling. Seasonally Go-Karts, Mini-Golf, Batting Cages, Tilt-a-Whirl, and Euro-Bungy, there is something for everyone!

Private party and event rooms available.

Expert

Ask the

Do you have a question for a Sioux Empire expert? ‘hood will be inviting area experts to weigh in and answer various questions from our readers.

Sanford Wellness Center Laurie Nold Exercise Specialist

How do you start exercising in the New Year & stick to it?

1. Set small, realistic goals. For example, try to complete three 20-minute workouts per week instead of aiming to “get fit.”

Flourish Wellness & Birth Co. Erin Vande Lune Certified Nurse Midwife and Co-Owner

How can I protect my family’s health during cold and flu season while pregnant or caring for a newborn?

4. Listen to your body and make sure you are scheduling rest/ recovery days into your routine.

Also, it’s important to eat meals that fuel your workouts and get enough sleep.

Pregnancy and newborn care during cold and flu season can feel especially vulnerable. The best defense is supporting your body’s natural immunity through rest, hydration, and nutrient-dense foods rich in protein, colorful produce, vitamin D, and zinc. Frequent handwashing, elderberry syrup, and gentle essential oils—diffused or applied to the soles of the feet— can add support. Keep indoor air humidified, and lean on simple comforts like warm teas, bone broth, and gentle movement to aid recovery. Prioritize fresh air and sunlight when possible, and above all, listen to your body’s cues and reach out to your care team—your health and your baby’s health are always worth protecting.

4201 S Oxbow Ave Sioux Falls, SD 57106 sanfordhealth.org/wellness-center 605.328.1600

2908 E 26th St, Suite B Sioux Falls, SD 57110 flourishbirthco.com 605.271.4170

2. Look at your calendar to find time each week for fitness. A beginner-friendly, three-day-a-week plan is a great way to start. This will build your confidence, foster a habit, and prevent burnout.

3. Choose an activity you enjoy so that exercising doesn’t feel like a chore. That could be walking, strength training, yoga, or cycling.

This will keep you motivated.

Avera Health Avera Behavioral Health

Feeling worried or sad is a natural part of growing up.

But how can you help a child or youth at a vulnerable moment?

You may realize there’s a problem with depression or anxiety when you see a change in functioning, like slipping grades or disinterest in playing with friends.

Here are some tips: • Rather than asking a child to “calm down,” model calmness.

• Try deep breathing and stretching exercises. If you stay steady, it can steady them.

• Acknowledge their feelings.

• Ask calm questions and express empathy.

• Practice ways to be flexible.

Say supportive things: • “I care about you.”

• “How can I help you problem solve? What do you need right now?”

4400 W 69th St Sioux Falls, SD 57108 Avera.org/BehavioralHealth 605.322.5142