VKZ Magazine Winter Edition for Nellis

VEGAS KIDS ZONE PRESENTS

WINTER 2023

VKZ Magazine

Mo re $27 than 5 de in a ins ls ide !

HER INSPIRING STORY & ADVICE FOR KIDS!

Click here to learn more

e Fre for s! ilie m Fa

FAMILY RESOURCE FAIR & KIDPRENEUR MARKET

College and Trade Schools | Special Needs Services | Sports, Music, Arts Classes | Tutors | Free Vision Screenings | | Educational Resources

JANUARY 13 11 AM - 2 PM SUNCOAST HOTEL & CASINO

VKZ Magazine

Contents 7

Editor’s Note

Welcome to VKZ Magazine! Find out our why and what we have planned!

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VKZ Deals - Beauty

More than $275 in VKZ deals for you throughout the magazine, including hair treatments, facials, blow outs and makeup!

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Foster Care Night

Gather with community members curious how they can help local foster kids!

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VKZ Deals - Food

Grab these deals for meal planning and food delivery as well as nutrition from a local certified nutritionist.

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VKZ Deals - Party

From balloons to personalized treat boxes.

Winter Edition | page 03

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Good News in the Valley

We recognize local businesses that make our community stronger.

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VKZ in the Community

What we’ve been up to lately! From dog park days, VKZ giveaway winners sharing their experiences with their prizes to our kidpreneurs out and about.

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VKZ Deals - Health

From Elderberry Source to pilates wear, what you can use and gifts for friends!

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VKZ Kidpreneur Market Jan. 13

Come to the Suncoast and see what the buzz is about! Stop by the VKZ table for discount movie tickest, food and your free gift!

VKZ Magazine

Winter Edition | page 04

10% Off Day Camps!

We found this incredible womanowned business at a Tech Expo and waited in the line to see what all the excited kids were talking about. It was worth the wait! Kids of all ages were in awe of what they could do at her science table. This is a hands-on program that ignites a passion in each student who enters the Girls Rock at Science STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math) Program and Day Camp.

Seriously fun, this program is designed to provide young women (6-12 years old) exposure to STEAM principles, concepts, and careers in a fun, exciting, and interactive environment. Program participants engage in hands-on activities, educational experiences, field trips and mentorship opportunities.

Programs include Day Camps, Science

GIRLS ROCK AT SCIENCE DAY AND HOLIDAY CAMPS DEC. 18-22 click here to get your vkZ Deal

Clubs, Classroom Visits, Field Trips and

GET 10% OFF WHEN YOU

Community Service & Outreach.

MENTION VKZ!

VKZ Magazine

Winter Edition | page 05

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Find deals on music and dance classes!

There is an abundance of ways to volunteer! Free volunteer kit, too!

VKZ Deals - Family Entertainment

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VKZ Deals - Home

Laundry service, carpet cleaning and decor at a discount for you!

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VKZ Honor roll

We recognize local kids and businesses that make our community stronger.

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Local Teen Makes Her Dreams a Reality

Advice for Kidpreneurs and an inspiring story for budding writers.

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Kidpreneur Club

Learn how to grow your young entrepreneur business.

Volunteer Opportunities

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VKZ Deals - Homeschool Help

Deals on homeschool curriculum, book clubs and more!

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Animal Rescue Relief

One local's experience rescuing fourlegged friends and the hardship on the pets that come from breeders.

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Host an Exchange Student

There are many benefits to hosting an exchange student and we need your help!

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VKZ Fun Pages

Seasonal games and downloads for kids!

Download and use all month long!

VKZ Magazine

Winter Edition | page 06

25% OFF

Magical Moments LV will offer 25% off if booked this month for any future event. Just mention VKZ! Decorating a birthday party goes beyond aesthetics; it plays a significant role in enhancing the overall experience for both the host and guests. It sets the stage for a memorable celebration, adds a personal touch, and contributes to the joy and excitement of the event.

Magical Moments LV adds color, excitement, and visual appeal to your parties and events. click here to get your vkZ Deal

VKZ Magazine

Winter Edition | page 07

Editor's Note From valley-wide events to new places to explore, we have tracked down fantastic finds, inspiring kids and local businesses you need to check out at a discount!

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Welcome to the digital magazine version of ​Vegas Kids Zone​!

This is stuffed with local deals to support small businesses, good news from kids and about kids.

A new feature we’re excited to launch is the VKZ Honor Roll which recognizes local youth and small businesses that make this community great with all they do.

Our Events Calendar is filling up with handpicked unique activities for kids and families, where to find Santa and holiday extravaganzas!

Go here for a list of free fun things to do every week so you don’t have to scroll!

The Monthly Kidpreneur Market is Dec. 2 with big giveaways, discounts for movie tickets, food and bowling at the Suncoast when you grab your free gift at the VKZ table! ​One local’s animal rescue experience and how it changed her life. Love your pet? Send us a pic of your kids and pets to be featured on Vegas Kids Zone!

Every Wednesday we have a giveaway on our Instagram.

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Click ​here to check out the shop and all the goodies you can use FREE for the holidays.

Want more info about a service or local resource? Email me at Kim@vegaskidszone.com.

I can’t wait to get to know you better! This publication includes affilate links.

Kimberley

KIMBERLEY MCGEE Editor-in-Chief

www.vegaskidszone.com

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VKZ Magazine

Winter Edition | page 08

10% Off Every Day! Have you heard?! There is a hidden gem that locals have discovered and love!

Taste of Asia at the Suncoast Hotel & Casino is some of the best and most authentic Asian food across Las Vegas!

The lunch special is $9.99 for a beautiful array of entrees to choose from. Happy Hour is every day, 3-6 p.m., with $5 appetizers and drinks.

Mention VKZ and get 10% off dim sum and other menu items (not lunch or happy hour) every day! Located right off the main entrance off Rampart, this is a fantastic spot for an afternoon pot of tea and sweets, too.

Local tip! Movies are half off at the Cinemark inside Suncoast on Tuesdays, too! Pair a movie and happy hour for a fabulous family night!

MENTION VKZ AND GET 10% OFF DIM SUM AND OTHER MENU ITEMS EVERY DAY! *EXCLUDES LUNCH AND HAPPY HOUR

VKZ Magazine

Winter Edition | page 09

Click here to learn more

YELLOW ROSE BEAUTY Holiday party, big event, birthday or milestone coming up? Get your glow on at Yellow Rose Beauty! They are offering 20% off a facial, perfect for winter skin! This native Las Vegan is also offering a free deep conditioning treatment with either a cut or blowout. Just mention VKZ to get the deal.

click here to learn more

Makeup by marijane marie Local makeup artist and spray tanner Marijane Marie brings the salon to you! She provides luxury beauty services in the comfort of your own home or hotel.

Receive $20 off any services booked before the end of the year when you mention VKZ.

VKZ Magazine

Winter Edition | page 10

FOSTER CARE

Have you ever considered being a foster parent or want more info on how you can support the foster care community? Join NYAP Nevada and local foster families to get information from local foster families and fellowship with a community of likeminded individuals. Learn how, together, we can make our community stronger.

Take a moment today to learn how you can help.

Call Cathy De Los Santos at 725-272-4517.

Have you seen NYAP out and about?! They put on fun events and are at many community resource fairs, including VKZ! Find out how you can help local foster children at one of NYAP’s in-person and virtual events: Alexander Library December 11 at 6 pm

www.vegaskidszone.com

VKZ Magazine

Winter Edition | page 11

Click here to get your vkZ Deal

Farm Fresh to You LV Farm Fresh to You provides the best quality fruits and occasionally vegetables from farmers in Nevada and Utah. Each crop is picked in season. Once the fruit and vegetables are picked, they go straight onto a truck and arrive safe to your home, preserving all of the phyto nutrients for a healthy diet. Val with Farm Fresh to You is offering a $10 discount off the first order of the regular-size box! Use code MTOCVL.

click here to get your vkZ Deal

NIKA BEE’S Nika Barnard, the chef behind Nika Bee’s, has more than 20 years of experience cooking for others and recently decided to put her skills into her dream of delivering fresh, nutritious food to kids and families. .

Her meal planning and catering business is her tribute to family, love and healthy food. She caters to all styles and diets and believes that whole foods from reputable sources are the key to good health.

VKZ Magazine

Winter Edition | page 12

click here to learn more

two balloons birthday directory Two Balloons Birthday Directory organizes Las Vegas’ top birthday venues and highly rated party services in one collection so detailing the perfect day for your child’s birthday is easy and unique.

VKZ members will receive discounted promotions throughout the year and free admission to the birthday expo.

click here to get your vkZ Deal

cds design studio CDS Designs Studio creates customized treat boxes or wrappers for any occasion! Mention VKZ to get the deal! A special occasion box can enhance any big event, from birthdays, anniversaries and other milestones to holiday gifts and more! They add an element of surprise, personalization, and thoughtfulness to the celebration.

VKZ Magazine

Winter Edition | page 13

Good news to know What’s new around town!

MORNING NEWS Have you checked this place out yet? The owners of Herbs & Rye and Cleaver steakhouse have branched out for breakfast and brunch!

Morning News, located at the former Dairy Queen location at 3154 W. Sahara Avenue, is open and amazing! They have big portions, an ecclectic menu and mouthwatering dishes.

PADEL POINT In the new trend department, pickleball has competition. P1 Padel Las Vegas recently opened at 1876 S. Buffalo Drive in Ward 1.

Padel is a relatively new sport to our local courts but is rapidly gaining ground with pickleball enthusiasts. This is the biggest club in the country with 8 courts.

The racquet sport is a cross mashup of tennis and squash that originated in Mexico. www.vegaskidszone.com

VKZ Magazine

Winter Edition | page 14

VKZ Out and About

We love getting out into the community and making things happen!

1) The Goodson Family entered the weekly VKZ giveaway last month and won tickets to the Cosmic Pumpkin patch!

2)Readers love The Soda Spot!

3) The 3 Broskis at Biz Jive after Five Networking Event where they scored a sponsor for the Biz Kid Expo!

come say hi! giveaways at in- person and online VKZ events!

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4) Enzo also found a sponsor at the event!

5) Checking out the solar eclipse with VKZ friends.

6) Magical Moments LV made our Oct. 21 Kidpreneur Market memorable!

7 & 8) Checking out the Paws in the Park!

www.vegaskidszone.com

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VKZ Magazine

Winter Edition | page 15

What’s New to You New eateries in Centennial Hills

NEW THAI Your favorite new Thai place just opened up in Centennial Hills!

Experience the rich tenderness of our meals with your preferred choice of meat in our noodles, curries, and entrees. Thai St. Cafe is a leading Thai Restaurant that has been bringing you the true taste of Thai Cuisine. With a reputation of bringing you authentic food & excellence, our restaurant stays true to the culinary culture.

LOUNGE LOVERS GO HERE! There’s a new family-friendly, smoke-free restaurant in Centennial Hills!

Lounge 95 North is an elevated dining and social experience. The elegant restaurant opened its doors in October and Councilperson Nancy Brune stopped by!

The menu includes fire roasted shrimp, caprese panini, Wagyu Lover Burger, as well as wings, chicken and steak, pasta dishes and pizzas! Check it out at 6050 Sky Pointe Drive, Suite 110. www.vegaskidszone.com

VKZ Magazine

Winter Edition | page 16

click here to get your vkZ Deal

the Elderberry Source Looking to boost your immune system and overall wellness? The Elderberry Source offers a variety of natural and delicious products. Elderberry syrups are a classic remedy for cold and flu season. Our Dry Herbal Immunity Teas are perfect for a cozy night in.

And don't forget about our Functional Bath Soaks and Skin Salve for self-care and relaxation. Stay tuned for more products coming in December!

click here to get your vkZ Deal

Yolo Life With a variety of cute designs, the Pilates socks from Yolo Life are both functional and fashionable. Don’t settle for boring socks when you can elevate your workout and Pilates practice with these stylish and comfortable Pilates socks! The custom grips on the bottom will keep you stable so you can focus on your form and get the most out of your workout.

www.vegaskidszone.com

VKZ Magazine

Winter Edition | page 17

www.vegaskidszone.com

VKZ Magazine

Winter Edition | page 18

Kidpreneur Monthly market Jan. 13!

Creative, inspiring and seriously fun!

The Suncoast Madrid Room will be packed full of KIDPRENEURS on Jan. 13 from 11 a.m -2 p.m.! Pick up your discount movie tickets, 10% off food and bowling at the Suncoast to use all month long!

come to the market for discounts on movie tickets, food &

bowling!

There will be everything from cards and gift tags, jewelry, bath bombs, fishing lures, crocheting, bird feeders and even a live singer/guitar player! Shop local and support these awesome kids and all their hard work!

We have had successful Kidpreneurs at every event. It’s been one of the more popular parts of our fairs and markets.

Talking to local kidpreneurs for the Vegas Kids Zone Spotlight series has inspired local kids and teens as well as us here at Vegas Kids Zone! We realized we could help them learn more on how to grow their business by making a monthly market and supporting them in their efforts all month long, not just at the event.

January VKZ Kidpreneur Market Jan. 13, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Suncoast Madrid Room

Want to be a vendor?

Sign up here and get a one month FREE to the VKZ Kidpreneur Club.

Space is Limited!

Join us in the VKZ Kidpreneur Club for networking workshops, discounts and VKZ Biz Box & more!

www.vegaskidszone.com

click here

VKZ Magazine

Winter Edition | page 19

click here to get your vkZ Deal

music n boogie Music n Boogie can best be described as a kids' music class, rhyme time session, and party all rolled into one!

Get $5 off when you join and mention VKZ! It is a unique class like no other: joyous, dynamic, highly interactive, and enthralling for little ones and their grownups too. Classes are filled with themed music, songs, and dance (nursery rhymes, action songs, party songs, and more) sensory props, funky instruments and shakers, puppets, themed dress-ups, story-time, parachute, bubbles, and many little surprises!

click here to get your vkZ Deal

dahl music studio Dahl Studio in the NW is an incredible resource for kids.! Kerri Dahl works with the whole family in mind. She and her professional staff are the only biz offering audiation-based music instruction for every age, stage, and ability!

Audiation-based music instruction provides a comprehensive and holistic approach to music.

From mommy and me music classes to the Private Studio, Dahl Studio classes are a step above. Get 25% off your first month when you mention VKZ!

www.vegaskidszone.com

VKZ Magazine

Winter Edition | page 20

Clic k he re t get o 10% off with VKZ Code 10O FF

www.vegaskidszone.com

VKZ Magazine

Winter Edition | page 21

call or text to get your vkZ Deal

Oxifresh It's that time of the year again! If you're looking to revamp your carpets or tile, consider contacting Will at OxiFresh.

Their approach is environmentally conscious, utilizing fewer chemicals and a mere eight gallons of water, as opposed to the standard 200 gallons. As a special offer for VKZ members, you can enjoy a 10% discount by reaching out to Will via call or text at 702-521-8377.

click here to get your vkZ Deal

Sunshine City goods Dress up your room decor with wood signs or letters, hand painted and personalized! From Toy Story to Bluey and Fresh Prince of Bel Air, Jennifer of Sunshine City Goods can create unique designs to fit your style and color palette. Ideal for baby shower, birthday, hostess and new home gifts! Receive 10% off your order when you mention VKZ .

www.vegaskidszone.com

VKZ Magazine

Winter Edition | page 22

vkz honor roll Do you have a child or teen who won an award, performed an act of kindness, or leveled up in sports? Celebrate their accomplishment with a VKZ Grateful Gram!

Matt Etzell Matt Etzell was recently appointed to the Ward 6 Youth Neighborhood Association Partnership Program (YNAPP) Grant Review Board! His role is to ensure our local youth have opportunities to engage and support our community. We’ll be in touch, Matt!

Look What we made!

Kids ages 5-12 at Art Classes for Kids painted these by looking at a still life of pomegranates on a table. Great work! The day camps and holiday camps are open for registration!

Rico Cruse Due to his professional experience as a young entrepreneur, Rico, 12, was allowed in the City of Las Vegas YES (Youth Entrepreneurial Success) program for kids 16-18! He’ll provide his craft popcorn and selfpublished books at an entrepreneur conference at the Ahern Hotel Nov. 19-20.

Sophie Vekslin Sophie attends Merryhill Summerlin and recently made the Nevada Youth Dance Company team while maintaining straight A’s! Go Sophie!

Send u s your good n ews fo r a chan ce to w in a $ 2 5 g if t card!

www.vegaskidszone.com

VKZ Magazine

Winter Edition | page 23

VKZ HONOR ROLL - LOCAL BUSINESS Congrats to Bold and Bright Academy!

They are one of our favorite VKZ Vendor Family members and we want to congratulate them on their latest achievement!

Bethany Johnson is a former CCSD educator who runs a licensed in-home preschool offering half-day classes for children ages 3-5. Recently, she was honored as the Early Childhood Educator of the Year by the Nevada Department of Education.

Bold and Bright Academy is a licensed, in-home preschool dedicated to providing the children in our community a nurturing, loving, and positive place to learn and grow.

Call them today for a tour and register for classes before they are filled!

Boldandbrightacademy@gmail.com (417) 631-1138

vegaskidszone.com

VKZ Magazine

Winter Edition | page 24

a love of lists led to success

click here to read more!

Putting pen to paper to prosper

From S.E. Hinton to Amelia Atwater-Rhodes and Christopher Paolini, teen authors have pushed past pre-conceived notions to publish inspiring and beautiful works.

Local entrepreneur and published author Angelina Agasi dipped her toe in the publishing pool at age 12. She is now on her fifth book.

“I've always been excited about new things happening in my life,” said Agasi, who shares her works on her Facebook page ARA Creations and Instagram. “One of those ideas was to start a whole business dedicated to my paintings and then for my books.”

Her books include “Paws of Love: Dogs,” “Paws of Love: Cats” and “Paws of Love: Rabbits,” and “Paws of Love: Tortoises.”

The first book took only five days to write!

But it wasn’t all easy. She is a fan of lists and turned those lists into outlines. However, she learned that being an author isn’t just about putting the idea out into the world. It’s about fine-tuning the details.

“It's the writing that seems simple. It's the editing that's hard,” she said, with the sigh of a seasoned published author.

Despite the rapid flow of words for each book, Angelina has struggled with putting pen to paper.

Writer's block has always been a challenge for me,” she said. “I'm constantly thinking about book ideas, including character details or simply good dialogue. So, thinking of ideas has always come easy, but the problem is having the motivation to keep writing that (particular) book.”

Her advice to aspiring entrepreneurs? Don’t stop at the first sign of boredom or let frustration impede your progress, both of which are bound to be a part of the process.

“You absolutely will face some difficult times and obstacles,” she said. “But you just must keep your head up. Never give up when you face something difficult. Then try again until your dreams come true. Because you truly can do anything you set your mind to.”

Read more about Angelina’s work process and advice for ambitious teens here.

www.vegaskidszone.com

GET IN ON THE VKZ LISTINGS & BRING MORE PEOPLE TO YOUR DOOR! LISTING LOVE

CONTACT US 702-326-9953 Kim@VegasKidsZone.com

JOIN OUR NETWORK As part of the VKZ Family Resource Fair, you will gain exposure via the online magazine featured post, mentioned in the VKZ weekly newsletter and press release and tagged in social media.

Once you submit the application form, you will be notified within 48 business hours if you have been selected for the fair. We are so excited to partner with you and showcase your business!

OUR WHY We have a wide array of local resources, programs, services and activities around the valley and parents actively seeking these types of businesses.

Get in on the search! Families are constantly searching for things to do, resources and businesses in the valley. From longtime locals to new residents, VKZ narrows their search and delivers info straight to interested subscribers and readers.

BECOME AN EXCLUSIVE VKZ KIDPRENEUR SPONSOR! PREMIER EVENT The VKZ Kidpreneur Market is a premier event specifically to equip and position kidpreneurs to be leaders in business, technology and philanthropy.

VKZ FAMILY RESOURCE FAIR ATTRACTS 100S OF LOCALS LOOKING FOR YOUR BUSINESS QUARTERLY FAIRS

The VKZ resource fairs bring families from around the valley, including Henderson, Mountains Edge, Summerlin, Centennial Hills and Nellis.

VKZ Magazine

Winter Edition | page 27

Kidpreneur club news Join a network of local professionals and serious young entrepreneurs!

VKZ Magazine

November Edition | page 20

kidpreneur club

Vegas Kids Zone

Join a network of local professionals and serious young entrepreneurs!

presents

Kidpreneur Monthly Workshop: How to Use Social Media Empowering Young Entrepreneurs and Building Community

Dec. 5 Dragonfly Academy 5:30 p.m.

For More Information

vegaskidszone.com

This monthly membership gives your child everything they need to get started or grow their business. We provide support, education, networking opportunities and workshops. Each month the VKZ Kidpreneur members will choose what they want their workshop to be. To join, it’s $30 a month or $25 a month if you sign up for 3 months or more. Buy a year membership and receive 25% off! Upcoming workshops on how to market your business and how to manage your profits are Jan. 8 and Feb. 10.

Monthly membership includes: Monthly VKZ Biz Box with exclusive content and discount. (up to $25 value) Monthly workshops to grow your business with a Q&A with an entrepreneur expert. (up to $30 value) Gain access to a network of fellow kidpreneurs and experts who will help you grow your business. (priceless!)

Annual memberships include: A personalized press release template about your business to introduce you to the media and to use for your future endeavors. ($300 value) Media kit templates. ($200 value) 20% off vendor table each month and a free upgrade to a 10x10 space. It is first come first serve.

Featured article on Vegas Kids Zone. ($250 value) Digital download workbook.

Annual awards banquet. www.vegaskidszone.com

VKZ Magazine

Winter Edition | page 28

VKZ is here to help What can we do to help you?! Here are a few of the most popular downloads in the VKZ Shop locals are using!

COMPLETE MOVING ORGANIZER Keep all your info together in one space with a moving organizer with checklists, planning pages for everything from what needs to be done a month out to the day of the move. The 40+ page moving organizer includes a contact list of all utilities and services in and around the Las Vegas valley that you need to call, email or drop in on and many more convenient resources. Use code VKZFRIEND to get 40% off this complete moving organizer!

VOLUNTEER WITH EASE This Volunteer Kit is designed to help kids and teens get the most out of volunteering and be prepared. When volunteering, be prepared to answer questions with the prompts provided.

Volunteering can help prepare kids and teens to work in a field they are considering.

It can also help them realize their strengths and weaknesses. www.vegaskidszone.com

VKZ Magazine

Winter Edition | page 29

tips to volunteer in Las Vegas Read More here!

Building a stronger community together.

Holiday volunteer opportunities are in abundance around the Las Vegas valley, from the large food pantries to small businesses.

Know Before You Go Before volunteering, check the website of the organization you plan to work with. Soup kitchens and food pantries often require that you wear longsleeved shirts and pants, closed-toed shoes or may have restrictions on what you can or cannot wear.

When working with the homeless, many organizations have an age restriction and strict dress code.

Think about what you like to do or when your kids are their most engaged.

Volunteering is more important than ever. There are many local businesses that are in need of volunteers to help pass out food, collect items, feed and play with cats and dogs and so much more.

For a full list of volunteer opportunities in Las Vegas, go here.

Volunteer Match Not sure what you want to do? Volunteer Match will help you find local charities based on your interests, location and more.

500 Projects of Love Inspiring and empowering others to help make an impact in the homeless community.

Project 150 They provide support and services to homeless, displaced, and disadvantaged high school students so they can remain in school, graduate, and build bright futures. They are in need of all the basics and then some!

The Just One Project They run one of the largest mobile food pantry in Nevada! They have many ways they help the community and opportunities for volunteering.

Street Dogz They help combat pet hunger & homelessness and are always in need of supplies and food.

www.vegaskidszone.com

VKZ Magazine

Winter Edition | page 30

Go here to get your vkZ Deal

literary adventures for kids If you haven't taken advantage of the free resources on Literary Adventures for Kids, go there now! Literary Adventures for Kids is an award-winning language arts curriculum that is easy to implement and fun to experience -- an adventure through a great book!

A schedule is provided and all the planning has been done for you. Get an EXTRA 15% off with code CAFE15!!!

Go here to get your vkZ Deal

great books homeschool We just started using Great Books Homeschool and absolutely love it! It’s clear, easy to use and truly affordable. It covers everything! We get many of our books from the library or Amazon. The curriculum is broken down by day and subject, love it. My twins like it because it’s not overwhelming. My early riser can get started because it’s easy to follow independently. My reluctant reader feels the workload is manageable and the choice for books and subjects interesting (read: worth his attention!).

You can get 30% off here. Yay!

www.vegaskidszone.com

VKZ Magazine

Winter Edition | page 31

pet corner Adopt, foster or found, we share your stories here.

Vegas Kids Zone partnered with Animal Network rescue through the end of the year to help fur babies find their forever home! We update adoptable pets in Las Vegas here every week that are vaccinated, chipped and often trained with basic commands.

We asked locals to share their rescue stories! If you want to share your story, please email Kim@vegaskidszone.com.

Shelly found her best friend in the parking lot of Tractor Supply.

“From the moment I saw her, I knew she had to come home with me,” said Shelly, a local mom to two dogs, a bird and three children. “It’s been magical having her with our little kids and how she gently plays with our youngest and rough houses with my 8-year-old son.”

As a child, her parents rescued basset hounds who had health problems.

“These bred dogs have eye and ear issues and it was heartbreaking to watch,” she said. That experience changed her. “I try to tell people it’s so much better to rescue a pet than buy from a breeder.”

Shelters often have limited space and resources. By adopting, you free up space for another animal in need, potentially saving its life. Adopting an animal from a shelter helps decrease the number of stray and unwanted animals, which can help alleviate issues related to overpopulation and homelessness.

We want to hear from you! We love a good rescue story.

Share how you came to call your pet your best friend and we’ll publish it here! Email Kim@vegaskidzone.com.

Bonus, she said, is that shelters typically ensure that animals are spayed or neutered, vaccinated, and microchipped before adoption.

“It’s a meaningful thing for you and the pets you rescue,” she said.

www.vegaskidszone.com

VKZ Magazine

Winter Edition | page 32

HOST AN EXCHANGE STUDENT We have kids from around the world who are looking to be foreign exchange students if we had more local families who would host these amazing teens! Hosting an exchange student is a rewarding experience for your whole family.

Hosting a foreign exchange student gives your family the opportunity to share your own culture and traditions, helping the student gain a deeper understanding of your country as well. Opening your home to a foreign student can promote personal growth and development by fostering adaptability, patience, and empathy.

You'll learn about another culture and language, too! It is a rewarding experience that lasts a lifetime for all involved.

If you are interested, contact longtime local and foreign exchange student friend and host mom Michelle.cetusa@gmail.com.

www.vegaskidszone.com

Maze of holiday ribbons!

Find a way through and under the ribbons to help the VKZ elf deliver a gift to Santa.

This worksheet is copyright protected. © Vegas Kids Zone. For personal use only, not to be copied, distributed, altered or sold. vegaskidszone.com

Christmas Scattegories

Who can fill out the list with the most correct answers in 1 minute?!

Christmas Movie

Something Red

Christmas Show Christmas Wish Christmas Song Something Green Christmas TV show

Something White Christmas Decoration

Christmas Tree I-SPY

Can you spot the 8 differences between these two Christmas Cheer scenes?

Christmas Cryptogram Can you decode the passage from this holiday classic?

Christmas Crossword

1) They help Santa on Christmas Eve

4) The big day

2) Jolly Old Elf Himself

7) --- "to the world"

3) They help Santa in small ways

8) What you give to others

5) What you decorate

9) Wrapped and put under the tree

6) Holiday feeling

10) They are put on 5 across

11) ----- and good will

13) #1 pulls it and #2 drives it

www.vegaskidszone.com

12) They are hung by the chimney with care

Puzzle Solutions Christmas spot the difference Present is missing on Santa’s sleigh.

The present to the right of the tree is smaller.

Star is smaller Candy cane is missing from top of the tree Elf on the right is smaller Present on the left of the tree is turned red.

Present to the far left is bigger.

There are owls in the tree.

Cryptogram - It was the night before Christmas and all through the house, not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.

Christmas Crossword

Ent e a ch r for an win ce to a gift $25 car d!

Get featured in VKZ Magazine!

Do you have a funny story, original poem, drawing or essay about your pet or family?! Send us your creative work and get published in the VKZ Magazine! Every entry is entered for a chance to win 1 of 3 $25 gift cards! Every published entry receives a certificate of publication.

Send your original creative work to Kim@VegasKidsZone.com for consideration!

New coupons and giveaways in each edition!

We want to hear from you! We spotlight kidpreneurs, kids and their pets and kids and teens doing amazing things around the valley! Has your child won an award, earned a black belt, showed an act of kindness or other accomplishment? We want to know!

Email Kim@vegaskidszone.com!

Interested in advertising and reaching more locals actively seeking to support small businesses in the valley?

Email Kim@vegaskidszone.com! vegaskidszone.com