Summer Break Guide for Las Vegas

SUMMER

GUIDE

Your Summer Break Survival Guide Benefits of Camp Less Screen Time More Adventure Plus!

Local Deals to Attractions Free Games for Kids

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Contents Winter Break Camps & Programs

2 Be a VKZ Cover Kid 8 Young Leaders Inspiring Homeschoolers Through Recess 9 Steam Camps 10 Autism & Neurodiversity Guide 11 Volunteering, The Ultimate Teen Job Prep Tool 12 Be A Kidpreneur 15 Free Birthday Swag Map 16 Birthday party spotlight 17 Grow Microgreens 18 Lemon Ricotta Cookies 20 Pop Candy Bark 23 Local Summer Gift Guide 25 Shop & Save 26 Top Dog Parks in Las Vegas

S IPS FOR CAMP Summer camp season is here, and for many families that means a mix of excitement, questions, and maybe a few last-minute “Did we pack everything?” moments.

Whether your child is heading to a sports camp, art camp, science program, theater workshop, or their very first day camp, a little preparation can make a big difference. Start by labeling everything. Water bottles, lunch bags, hats, towels, sunscreen, and backpacks all seem to magically disappear when dozens of kids are having fun together.

Trust us on this one.

Summer camp is about more than keeping kids busy during school break. It helps build confidence, independence, friendships, creativity, and new skills.

From sports and performing arts to STEM, entrepreneurship, and outdoor adventures, there are more options than ever for families to explore.

For a complete checklist, packing tips, questions to ask before registration, and helpful advice for first-time campers, visit Vegas Family Insider’s Summer Camp Guide and get your family camp-ready before the fun begins.

Meet Maddie & Ella

Young Leaders Inspiring Homeschoolers Through Recess Maddie and Ella are two standout members of the Recess community who have been part of the platform since its earliest days.

Recess is an online learning and social community for kids ages 8 to 15, designed to foster creativity, leadership, friendship, and self-directed exploration through live classes, clubs, and collaborative experiences.

Maddie and Ella have shaped what is possible for kids on Recess with their Recess Rundown Podcast. They share their homeschool journey and explore what it means to learn in a selfdirected, curiosity driven environment.

A bit about Maddie Maddie, 11, leads the Recess Book Club for younger readers, ages 8 to 11. She is also a published author who recently released her second book. She loves creative writing, Dungeons & Dragons, art, and helping other kids find their voice (and she’s really good at it too!).

VKZ Fave Quotes from Maddie: “I am traumatized by a pickle.”

“Don't be afraid to reach out to people who inspire you, because they might say yes.”

A bit about Ella Ella, who is 13, hosts the Young Adult Book Club for teens. She is an avid artist who has created her own virtual art galleries with the support of her art teacher and the Recess community. She also enjoys creative writing, Dungeons & Dragons, and taking on leadership roles as a Recess Ambassador, making sure new kids feel seen and included.

VKZ Fave Quotes from Ella: “Remember, children are just tiny adults with wild imaginations. No matter how young you are, you can achieve anything you put your mind, too! Never let your age limit you.”

Recess.gg is proud to celebrate kids who learn, lead, and level up — on the playground and beyond.

Want your child featured in our next spotlight?

Visit Recess.gg/spotlight to submit their story.

STEAM Camps in Las Vegas If your kid is the type who takes apart the remote “just to see how it works,” builds elaborate cardboard contraptions, or casually explains black holes at the dinner table (been there), STEAM camps are about to become your holiday break lifesaver.

These camps mix science, technology, engineering, art, and math into hands-on fun that keeps kids learning and gives curious minds a place to explore big ideas while you enjoy a few blissful hours of quiet.

Below you’ll find some of the best STEAM camps around the valley this season— organized, easy to compare, and full of options for every age and interest. iCode 4950 W. Craig Road (702)930-5505 centennialhills@icodeschool.com Camps every day through December here! Book early for the week of Dec. 22 and Dec. 29 to secure your spot and soar over the holiday break! STEM.org certified curriculum sparks excitement and curiosity as kids dive into hands-on experiences with robotics, drones, AI, 3D printing, and more. Through its unique Belt system, students build real-world skills like coding, problem-solving, and teamwork while having so much fun, they don’t even realize they’re learning. With instructor-led classes, exciting projects, and regular progress updates for parents, it’s easy to see why so many families trust us to help their children thrive.

Code Central 10545 S Eastern Ave #110 (702) 790-3930 info@mycodecentral.com Code Central has quietly become the winter break favorite for Vegas families — and it’s not just because kids get to dive into STEAM. This camp goes beyond coding lessons and cool tech projects; it’s a place where creativity, problem-solving, teamwork, and confidence all get a serious glow-up. Kids learn to build, design, experiment, and think like innovators… while having so much fun they forget they’re technically learning.

Vegas Kids Zone

AUTISM & NEURODIVERSITY Real Families. Real Resources. Real Hope.

GUIDE

Programs That Make a Difference Therapy, tutoring and resources

Sensory-Friendly Vegas

Where to go, what to try

Discover Support Faster Real Parent Stories Plus!

Sponsored by

Your Logo Here

Celebrating Neurodiverse Kids Autism Resource Map for Southern Nevada

VOLUNTEERING

THE ULTIMATE TEEN JOB PREP TOOL

For teens looking to build confidence, sharpen skills, and stand out in job interviews, volunteering is a game-changer. Beyond simply “doing good,” volunteer work offers real-world experience that mirrors what future employers are looking for: commitment, communication, problem-solving, and teamwork.

That’s why VKZ’s Volunteer Training Kit was created—to help teens take their experiences and turn them into interview-ready talking points. The kit walks students through how to document hours, reflect on what they learned, and describe their impact in a way that wows future employers or college admissions.

Inside the kit: A resume-building worksheet to track skills and roles A mock interview guide with teen-focused sample questions A reflection journal to connect experience with goals A certificate of completion for portfolios or applications Whether helping at community events, mentoring younger kids, or working at local nonprofits, teens are not only giving back—they’re building the kind of résumé that opens doors.

Get your free kit here.

By getting involved with local organizations, you’ll not only put your time to good use but also step out of your comfort zone in a fun and positive environment. You’ll meet new people, gain hands-on experience, and discover new passions—all while making a real difference. Volunteering is for everyone, no matter your skills or interests, and it’s a great way to learn something new while giving back.

Kidpreneur Curious?

Celebrate triumphs and shop local handmade items at our Mini Mogul Markets!

Mini Mogul Market Dec. 13, 11-4 p.m.

Fantastic Indoor Swap Meet 1717 S Decatur BLVD

The biggest highlight of the entire kidpreneur year is coming up! Our markets on the second Saturday all summer at Fantastic Indoor Swap Meet are a festive, high-energy celebration of creativity, courage, and kid-run businesses. Spots are open here.

What to Know if You Have a Mini Mogul

Discover unique, handmade treasures and nurture the entrepreneurial spirit of these talented kids.

Wondering how does this whole Kidpreneur thing actually work? You’re in the right place. Our Kidpreneur Markets are simple, supportive, and seriously fun for first-timers. And right now, you can jump in for just $20 if you sign up by Dec. 5 for the Dec. 13 market.

Let’s inspire the next generation together — join us at the VKZ Kidpreneur Market! Every 2nd Saturday at Fantastic!

Click here to learn more and grab the holiday deal before it’s gone!

VEGASKIDSZONE.COM

The VKZ Kidpreneur Program is where passions turn into businesses… and businesses turn into confidence. Below, we walk you through the vibe, the prep, the perks, and all the magic in between.

KID’S GUIDE TO

STARTING A BUSINESS

The ABCs of Kid’s Markets in 3 Steps The very basics are right here: 1.Sign up and pay for your booth (use the registration button above).

2.Read the Welcome Email — it includes what to bring, simple setup instructions, and pro kidpreneur tips.

3.Arrive ready to shine — sell, meet other entrepreneurs, learn new skills, and maybe even take home an award!

Want in? Join our free Kidpreneur Weekly Newsletter for business-building tips, creative challenges, and chances to win prizes that help you grow your skills and your business.

Fuel your child’s big ideas with this dynamic duo! The Kidpreneur Start Kit and companion Goal-Setting Workbook turns those dreams into action! Help your young entrepreneur set smart targets, track progress, and celebrate wins.

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VEGA S KID S ZON E

FREE BIRTHDAY SWAG MAP It’s our favorite time of the year, birthday time!

We have found 20+ places to get a free goodie or gift during your birthday month or only when you arrive on your actual birthday.

From a cookie or a Bundlet to lipstick, eye makeup and candles, there is an abundance of goodies for you to grab on your birthday!

FREE FOOD, DRINKS,& DISCOUNTS ON YOUR BIRTHDAY

VIEW ENTIRE LIST, CLICK HERE

BIRTHDAY PARTY SPOTLIGHT Make your kid the talk of the playground with a wildly fun birthday bash at Dinosaur Outpost at Town Square Las Vegas. From epic photo ops to hands-on dino adventures, this spot is a total crowd-pleaser.

Choose from two awesome party packages, or go full DIY and bring your own party magic.

What Local Parents Say “Great place for a birthday party!

The team called ahead, helped with everything, and let us bring in our own food. Such a unique experience—kids AND adults had a blast. Highly recommend!” Erica “We celebrated my daughter’s 7th birthday here and it was amazing!

The staff was friendly and helpful the entire time. There’s so much to explore and enjoy for the whole family. Thanks for making her birthday unforgettable!” Jessica

From birthdays to weddings, and every celebration in between, Pedro brings the magic, the details, and that wow factor that turns an event into a memory.

📞Call Pedro and let the celebrating begin. 702-303-5903

Grow Microgreens

By Jen Gammons Mujica Planting a seed teaches children lifelong lessons. As Benjamin Franklin so eloquently shared about education, “Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn.” Gardening gets children involved in learning lessons that will benefit them for a lifetime.

Check out this short list of lessons kids learn from gardens.

The food we eat comes from a tiny seed planted in good soil. A seed needs only water, sun and soil that has not been treated with toxic chemicals to grow into delicious fruits and vegetables. Soil and dirt are very different. Children who grow gardens know the difference and learn how to make healthy soil that grows healthy food.

Caring for one small bean or sunflower pot can teach discipline, empathy, responsibility and the lesson of hard work pays off when that flower blooms! When we care for the Earth’s plants, insects and animals, Earth will take care of us with abundant food and health.

Growing Microgreens! Indoor Gardening with Super Nutritious Benefits Keep it Simple and buy a Microgreens Growing Kit on Amazon!

Supplies Needed: Seeds Planting Tray with lid and base Soil A window shelf with sunlight Spray Bottle for Water

Harvest Time

Directions: Wash your tray with soap and hot water (rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue) Fill the tray up to the top with the soil Sprinkle the seeds on top of the soil. Add LOTS so that the soil is covered with a layer of seeds Spray the seeds with water Place lid on the tray Put your tray of microgreen seeds in a sunny place near a window or under plant grow lights Spray your seeds daily to keep them moist until the seeds begin growing shoots of plant Continue watering your microgreens and watch them grow bigger and bigger every day!

When your microgreens are 2 inches tall, use a pair of scissors to cut off the amount you need. The rest of the sprouts can stay in the tray until you need them. Microgreens are delicious toppers for sandwiches, salads, avocado toast and eggs. My favorite way is to rinse them and eat them straight out of the garden tray!

Farmer Jen Gammons-Mujica is a writer, garden educator and marketing specialist who runs the New Vista Ranch garden programs and owns Farmer Jen organics, teaching homeowners and chefs how to grow healthy, organic food. Next Month - 10 Minute Gardening Activities to Do Indoors this Summer. Visit @farmerjenorganics on Facebook and Instagram.

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Lemon Ricotta Cookies

by Chef Christopher A. Lindsay

There’s something about a simple cookie that tells you everything you need to know about a chef.

For Chef Christopher A. Lindsay, it’s all in the balance. These cookies bring it all together. Bright citrus, soft texture, just enough sweetness to keep you coming back for one more.

This lemon ricotta cookie recipe is a reflection of his approach in the kitchen and the classroom at University of Nevada, Las Vegas: thoughtful, approachable, and rooted in technique that elevates even the most familiar treats. Light, tender, and full of fresh flavor, these cookies are the kind you make once and then get requests for again and again.

Yield: 32 cookies, 350° F, Prep time: 30 min Ingredients:

2 cups Granulated Sugar 1 cup Butter 1 ¾ cups Ricotta Cheese 2 tsp. Vanilla Extract 2 Large Eggs 4 cups Flour, All-Purpose (AP) 2 tbsp. Baking Powder 1 tsp. Salt 1 ea. Lemon (Zest & Minced)

Directions for Lemon Ricotta Cookies 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F

You’ve probably flipped past them… and then thought about them later.

2. Zest and mince 1 lemon, set aside for later.

3. In a large bowl, beat sugar and butter until blended.

4. Beat until light and fluffy, about 5 minutes.

5. Afterwards, beat in ricotta, vanilla, lemon zest, and eggs until well combined.

6. Add flour, baking powder, and salt; beat until a soft dough forms.

7. Drop dough by level tablespoon, about 2 inches apart, onto an ungreased large baking sheet.

8. Bake about 15 minutes or until cookies are very lightly golden (Note: cookies will be very soft).

9. Remove cookies to wire rack to cool, lightly sprinkling powdered sugar immediately after leaving oven.

10. Repeat with remaining cookies.

11. Set cookies aside to allow to dry completely, about 45 min and serve

About the Author Christopher A. Lindsay, M.Ed., is a Chef Instructor and Lecturer in the Food & Beverage Management Department at the William F. Harrah College of Hospitality at University of Nevada, Las Vegas. He trains the next generation of hospitality professionals to think beyond the plate.

They’re all still there.

Recipes from past issues are waiting for you—simple, familytested, and made for real life. Scan for a full list.

Pop Candy Bark A new Las Vegas collaboration is turning up the volume on comfort food...this time with a soundtrack.

Pop icon Tiffany Darwish and local chef Alicia Shevetone debuted “Pop Life” this summer, a cookbook that blends nostalgic favorites with a modern edge. It’s part recipe collection, part storytelling experience, and entirely rooted in connection.

This clever white chocolate version causes the most commotion at the after-party table. If they only knew how easy it is. Just melt, decorate, set, and SNAP!

Ingredients

12 ounces white chocolate, chopped or chips 1/3 cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed slightly 2 packets blue raspberry Pop Rocks Optional garnishes: edible glitter, gummy bears and silver stars

Instructions 1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.

2. Melt white chocolate in a double boiler or microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring until smooth.

3. Cool chocolate 2–3 minutes; warm is good — hot will pop the candy.

4. Spread into a rough rectangle about 1/4-inch (roughly 1/2 cm) thick.

5. Top immediately with crushed freeze-dried strawberries, blue raspberry Pop Rocks and optional garnishes (sprinkle just before it sets). Add glitter or stars if using.

6. Chill 30 minutes until set. Break into shards and store airtight at room temp. Keep dry — moisture kills the pop.

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Coloring and handwriting practice pages!

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Vegas Kids Zone Presents

Local

Summer Gift Guide

Our annual Summer Gift Guide celebrates the spirit of shopping local and supporting the small businesses that make our community a great place to call home. Every purchase helps strengthen families, entrepreneurs, and creatives who pour their hearts into what they do.

Bookworm Puzzle blends literature and visual art.

classic

Dechan Inc. – 15% Off Holiday Printing & Personalized Gifts

These literary puzzles designed by local artist Szilvia Balazs make the perfect gift this season for readers, art lovers, and anyone who enjoys a creative challenge that engages both the mind and the imagination.

Make your gifts as creative as the people receiving them. Dechan Inc. specializes in inventive custom printing for your small business, and one-of-a-kind gift baskets that stand out from the rest. The owners create thoughtful, branded holiday packages, beautifully customized.

Each design celebrates a timeless story and showcases the work of talented illustrators.

More info at bookwormpuzzle.com.

702-496-0318 info@dechaninc.com dechaninc.com

Kidpreneurs Support Local Kidpreneurs!

These young makers aren’t just cute, they’re running real, thriving businesses, and their creations are downright irresistible. Browse these fabulous finds, place your preorders, and pick everything up at our monthly Kidpreneur Market at Fantastic Indoor Swap Meet! It’s the easiest (and most heart-warming) way to check off your gift list and support the next generation of entrepreneurs. Shop small. Shop local. Shop kidpreneur magic.

Harper’s Cosmetics

Quinn’s Beadiful Creations

Elements of Ascension

Love, Trinity Designs

Shop & Save

Wyldflower Nomad - 25% off!

Embrace your free spirit this holiday season with Wyldflower Nomad’s dreamy, boho-inspired apparel and accessories — designed for wanderers at heart. Every piece tells a story, whether you’re heading to a festive gathering or cozying up by the fire. This season, enjoy free shipping on orders over $100 and use code Wyld25 for 25% off! Wrap yourself (or someone you love) in style that feels as good as it looks because the best gifts are the ones that let your spirit roam.

Picky Performance Cleaning 20% off Let your holidays sparkle without lifting a finger! Picky Performance Cleaning is known for its top-tier attention to detail and trustworthy, professional service that leaves every corner spotless and shining. Enjoy 20% off all house and commercial cleaning services and treat yourself (or gift a loved one) the joy of a perfectly polished home.

More info at pickyperformancecleaning.com.

Vegas Family Insider | Page 45

Top Dog Parks in Las Vegas

1

3

Barkin’ Basin Park

Located at 7350 W. Alexander, this park features a large off-leash area with separate sections for small and large dogs, water fountains, and shaded seating for pet owners.

Sunset Dog Park Found within Sunset Park at 2601 E. Sunset Road, this park has spacious off-leash areas for dogs of all sizes, complete with water fountains, benches, and trees for shade.

2

4

Desert Breeze Dog Park Situated at 8275 Spring Mountain Road, this popular dog park offers separate areas for small and large dogs, agility equipment, water stations, and plenty of shade.

Woofter Dog Park

Located at 1600 Rock Springs Drive, Woofter Dog Park provides a clean and wellmaintained space with separate sections for small and large dogs, shaded areas, and water fountains.

Remember to care for your pets in the summer heat.

Click Here for More Info

Looking for a Pet Professional?

If you have a busy schedule, long work hours, or physical limitations, knowing that a reliable and trustworthy individual is taking care of your dog's exercise needs can be incredibly reassuring. Additionally, regular walks help prevent obesity, reduce behavioral problems, and provide essential socialization opportunities with other dogs and people.

Mention VKZ for $20 off your next service.

Get Discount

U DO YOY R U O E HAV POGO Pass?

The POGO Pass is one of the best deals in town to get into a host of places (that don’t usually offer discounts for a steal! Use discount code VKZ to get 50% off!

e hes t t e ou ck t th r e e g h u C S to of yo P I T ut ! ass st o P o m GO PO

Click Here Grab a few to give as gifts! Once activated the passes can be used for a whole year!

DAY TRIP

LOST CITY MUSEUM GETTING OUT AND ABOUT THIS SUMMER IS A BREEZE WHEN YOU KNOW WHERE TO GO. The Lost City Museum is about a 45-minute drive outside of Las Vegas, a great day trip for the adventurous or just curious. This is a gem for history and archaeology buffs and ideal for kids of all ages. Turn it into a teachable moment with this handy study guide from the Lost City Museum!

re!

Download He The museum is built on the site of an ancient Ancestral Puebloan (Anasazi) village,

45-Min Drive From Las Vegas

providing a direct connection to the area's rich prehistoric past. It houses an extensive collection of artifacts from the Ancestral Puebloans, including pottery, tools, and other cultural items that offer insights into their daily life and craftsmanship.

Visitors can explore reconstructed Puebloan structures, which provide a tangible sense of what life was like for the original inhabitants. These reconstructions are based on archaeological findings from the area.

WHAT TO DO H KIDS INDOORS WIT

Las Vegas has a good 9 months of incredible weather, which makes the weekly nature classes and outdoor sports and meetup days easy and fun.

But when the days or too hot, for the entire month, having a list of things to do around town, or at home, can make those indoor days a delight.

POGO Pass will get you into many indoor activities, events and shows throughout the year. Not sure if POGO Pass is for you? For less than $50 you get into 20+ places, including a pass to Cowabunga Bay, which covers the entire cost right there.

What To Do in Las Vegas When It’s Hot Indoor Rock Climbing Shopping with a Twist Bowling for Big Fun Crafts & Creative Endeavors Trampoline Park Indoor Playgrounds for Littles & Bigs At Home Activities Escape Rooms for Anyone Ice Skating Indoors All Year

LEARN MORE

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