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Lincoln Kids!

“Flying Squirrel” by Shelby Henry, age 12

November, December & January

Winter 2014

Indoor and Outdoor Fun for the Months of:

Your Family Guide for Lincoln and the Surrounding Area.

Lincoln Kids!

Page 2 • lincolnkidsinc.com

• Play-sets• Inflatables• Fun Gym• Foam Pit• Private Party Rooms• Video games• Laser maze• B-ball court• Food

Hours: Mon-Thur 10am-9pm, Fri-Sat 10am-9:30pm, Sun 11am-8pm

Visit our website at: www.lostinfun.com

8431 Cody Drive (15th & Yankee Hill Rd)

Hablamos español!

The time is near. Lost in Fun brings the holiday cheer!

402-261-0440

Voted Lincoln’s Choice, “Best Place to Have a Kid’s Birthday Party” for the past 3 years!

Make your Holiday a special one at

Lost in Fun. Book your Holiday party now.

This year come celebrate New Year’s Eve with us!

Visit our Website

for Holiday

Specials on

Memberships,

Gift & Punch Cards!

" Here’s a Coupon Gift 4 U!

25% off one pass 1 coupon per person, per day, per family. Not valid with other

coupons or for parties. Expires 1-30-15

Downtown in the Haymarket at: 701 P Street • 474-1010

or our South Lincoln store at:4107 Pioneer Woods • 486-1010

www.paintyourselfsilly.net

Open: Monday-Thur. 10-6, Friday-Sat. 10-5 & Sunday 12-4

expires 1/31/2015, must present this ad.

3841 South 48th(Across From Union College)

402-466-1993

The ShoppeDance

Take a Festive 20% Off any regular priced item!

For all your Dancers Holiday Wishes

Visit us at: Thedanceshoppes.com

Excitement. Hope. Pride. But I wonder what you see

when you look at me. I wonder because I am a foster kid.

And even though I never miss my dance class, love to write, and

plan to head off to college soon, I still wonder if you

look at me differently. But please don’t.

Please, see in me what you see in those other kids.

My name is Amy.

And I think I know what you see when you look at a kid.

Will you be a foster parent? Kids like Amy are waiting.

402-434-5437www.cedarskids.org

I need you to believe in me the way you believe in them.

Lincoln Kids!

Winter 2014 Page 3

Advertising, Artwork, Article, & Calendar Deadline for the 2015

Spring Issue is January 10th. Covering: February, March and April

To view our issues online visit our website at: lincolnkidsinc.com

Attention Young Artists and Poets! How would you like to be

Published in Lincoln Kids! Newspaper?Mail or email us a copy of your

Artwork and Poems for consideration-TODAY!

Lincoln Kids! Newspaper, 25660 South 12th St.

Martell, Nebraska 68404

Email: lincolnkids@windstream.net phone: (402) 798-0224website: lincolnkidsinc.com

Publisher and Editor in Chief – Mark Martin Advertising – Mark Martin Art Direction – Mark Martin Calendar and more – Dawn GarciaIllustrations – Children & Ron Wheeler’s Fat Free Clip Art Printer – Page 1 PrintersLincoln Kids! Inc is published quarterly in February, May, August and November. Mailing Address: 25660 South 12th Street, Martell, NE, 68404. Phone number: (402) 798-0224. E-mail: lincolnkids@windstream.net Copyright ©2013 by Lincoln Kids! Inc. All rights reserved. We are not responsible for errors and omissions. Reproduction in whole or part with-out written permission prohibited. Lincoln Kids! encourages your submission of feature articles, photographs and ideas. We reserve the right to edit submitted material. All submissions will be considered for publication. Materials will not be returned unless prior arrangements are made. Advertising and information is accepted at the dis-cretion of the publisher. Web site is located at: www.lincolnkidsinc.com Current and past issues may be viewed there.

Welcome to the Winter edition of Lincoln Kids! newspaper.

There are a lot of fun things going on in this issue so I hope you will check them all out. For instance do you know which day in January is “Rubber D u c k i e Day”? Thanks to contributing author, Gretchen Garrison–I do! See page 7.

This coming December and January grab a jacket and head

on down to Morrill Hall after dark to visit the UNL Student Observatory to gaze through their telescope as a part of their pro-gram “Starry, Starry Night”. See page 21 for the celestial details.

For Holiday fun the Lincoln Children’s Museum has tons to do so check out their ad/article on pages 5 and 23.

The Lincoln Children’s Zoo is doing their annual Holiday Train

Ride but be warned, tick-ets sell out fast!

For an event the entire fami-ly will enjoy N u t c r a c k e r tickets are on sale at the Lied.

If you are into making

artistic presents this year head over to a Paint Yourself Silly location or to the Lux Center for the Arts. See pages 2 and 6 for more details.

From The Publisher

Mark Martin

Camp isn’t just for summer so check out MyGym on page 13. If your child has never participated in the winter fun at Camp Kitaki–it’s a must do! See the back page.

There are also fun stuff at the Pioneers Park Nature Center, swimming lessons at the Larson Lifestyle Center, JiuJitsu, Karate, music and dance lessons plus ter-rificly fun theater opportunities at Theatre Arts for Kids (see pages 16 & 21). Be sure and check out Dawn’s four page Calender of

Winter 2014 Cover Artist Shelby Henry

Hi, my name is Shelby Henry. I am a 7th grader at St. Peter’s School. I enjoy art, music, and theatrical acting. I have taken multiple acting classes through Bright Lights to help me work toward my dream of working in film. This past summer my sister and I took classes through Art Planet. We learned some cool new painting techniques like the Grid technique. My favorite subjects to paint are animals and nature scenes. I like art because it allows me to express myself and give a piece of my creative and inspirational side to the world. I also enjoy playing sports. Tennis is my favor-ite, but I also like golf, volleyball and soccer. I won Gold in my age division in tennis at the Cornhusker Games this summer. I have been blessed with some wonderful coaches, they have not only taught me the love of the sport but also the value of hard work and commitment. My family and I enjoy to trav-el. We have been to Italy, France and most of the United States. I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to experience different parts of the world. My favorite place to see so many different paintings was the Louvre museum, especially the Mona Lisa. The Sistine Chapel was quite remarkable also.

Events on pages 31-34! Lincoln Kids! received two

honors recently: One from the Nebraska Dyslexia Association (see a couple of great articles on page 25!), and another from Modern Woodman of America’s Kid’s Club. We are truly honored!

Hope you all have a great three months and hope to see you in the Spring edition!

Best Wishes,

Mark Martin the publisher

Tinker Tots Preschool and Childcare

402-904-4406 education@tinkertotsdaycare.com

• Personal relationship with all families in a home environment

• Developmentally appropriate activities • Meets all Early Head Start Guidelines • Affordable rates with low child to adult

ratios • Help with potty training!

Nationally Accredited Curriculum

Now Accepting ApplicationsAges 21/2 - 5 Full & Part Time

Hours 7:15 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.

TinkerTots Preschool-Daycare

This example of winter fun can be found at the New Year’s Live Camp located at the YMCA’s Camp Kitaki.

Lincoln Kids!

Page 4 • lincolnkidsinc.com

Bender & Fry Hi! We are Bender and Fry

and we are the llamas that live at the Lincoln Children’s Zoo! We make our home next to the horses and goats and love when kids feed us pellets at the zoo! Other than pellets, we like to eat Hay that the zookeepers give us. Did you know that people often used us as pack animals? We can carry up to 75 pounds on our back! That is almost 35% of our body weight! We also have really soft fur that can be used to make wool for rugs, ropes and even clothes! Come visit us and our neighbors, the goats, in April when the Zoo opens!

HerbertHey there! My name is Herbert

and I am the tawny frogmouth chick at the Zoo! Did you know that before tawny frogmouth chicks are hatched the father will sit on the egg during the day and the mother will sit on the egg at night! My parents Marta and Walter did this for almost 30 days

until I was hatched June 1st this past summer! At the zoo, my fam-ily likes to eat small rodents and insects. In the wild, we would be found in places like Australia and Tasmania and often hunt at night for worms, slugs, small mammals, small reptiles or frogs. Eventually I will grow up to be 3-4 oz. and anywhere between 9-21 inches tall!

RosieMy name is Rosie and I am

the African pygmy hedgehog here at the Zoo! In the wild, I could be found in the grasslands of Northern Africa, Arabia or even India. African pygmy hedgehogs that hunt in the wild often eat spiders or insects and can even eat poisonous scorpions without getting sick! At the zoo, I eat pel-lets, fruits, vegetables and crickets. Often people are amazed at how good my sense of smell is. I can smell things that are over 2 inches below the ground! Another skill I have is the ability to roll myself up in a ball for protection!

Miles & WorfHey there! Our names are Miles

and Worf and we are the squir-rel monkeys at the Zoo. Outside of the zoo, we can be found in the Amazon Basin in places like

taking care of us, so the zookeep-ers are helping her out by raising us! In the wild, red pandas can be found in the Himalayas of China, Myanmar, India and Nepal. When we are older we will eat bam-boo leaves, shoots, fruit, insects and rodents. Did you know that the word panda means “bamboo eater” in Nepalese? Some female red pandas can eat up to 20,000 bamboo leaves in one day! That’s a lot!

My Scaly, Furry, Feathery... Facebook FriendsBy Mark Martin and the Lincoln Children’s Zoo

If you are on Facebook, like me, you’ve probably received several friendship requests.

Since I am a friend of the Lincoln Children’s Zoo, I have a few “new” friends I would like you to know about:

For more Information on the zoo, visit:

LincolnZoo.org

Columbia, Peru and Brazil! In the wild, we like to eat flowers, leaves, buds, nuts, insects, lizards and eggs. At the Zoo our diet consists of fruit, hard boiled eggs, corn, nuts, herbivore biscuits, veggies and meat. We are arboreal, which means we like to live in the trees. Most of us spend 99% of our lives in the trees!

Carson & Willa Hello there! We are the red

panda twins that were born this summer at the Lincoln Children’s Zoo! Our mom needed a little help

Centrally Located at 4009 O Street

402-483-1258 • lincolnbjj.com

Fitness, Fun, and Self DefenseWould you like to try a free week

to see if Jiu Jitsu is for you?Call us today to schedule your free trial week.

We offer classes for kids, teens, and adults. Beginners through advanced students

are now being accepted. If you have a child between the ages of 4-6

we are offering a month of training for free this coming November. Call for details.

Lincoln Kids!

Winter 2014 Page 5

LincolnChildrensMuseum.org (402) 477-4000 1420 P Street Lincoln, NE 68508

Elementary Camps • ages 6-10Held on LPS Out Days

Prices vary by camp length

Preschool Play Days • ages 3-5Members: $25; Non members $30

Awesomeopposites

+

-

Friday, Dec. 1

GIFTS &

GOODIESGIFTS &

GOODIES

Dec. 22-23 Dec. 29-30

Friday, Jan. 2

TIN

KER

� T I M E �

Monday, Jan. 19

Monday, Dec. 15 �ursday, Jan. 8 Monday, Jan. 26

For information on Museum camps or special events, visit www.LincolnChildrensMuseum.org

Register at LincolnChildrensMuseum.org, in person or by calling (402) 477-4000.

Friday, Dec. 5 • 5 - 8 p.m.Party with your favorite people from the North Pole! • Visit Santa's Workshop & meet Santa & Mrs. Claus. • Create winter art projects and holiday crafts. • Live music plus dance performances featuring members from the cast of Lincoln Midwest Ballet Company’s “The Nutcracker!”

S P E C T A C U L A R

Thursdays, Dec. 11 & 18 • 10 a.m., 5 & 6 p.m.Saturdays, Dec. 6, 13 & 20 • 10 and 11 a.m.; 1, 2 & 3 p.m.Sundays, Dec. 7, 14 & 21 • 1, 2 & 3 p.m.It’s the perfect activity for the entire family! We supply the 15” house frame, frosting and a variety of candies for decorative topping, you bring the fun! • $25 for members • $30 for non-members (includes 2 free admissions) • $25 Take home kits also available

2014

Wednesday, Dec. 31 • 6:30-8:30 p.m. - Doors open at 6 p.m.Lincoln’s biggest and best family New Year’s tradition is back in 2014! • Bubble wrap stomp • Countdown & ball drop • Balloon shower with more than 2,000 balloons! • Tickets required: $8 for members; $13 for non-members Under 12 mos. free; tickets on sale Nov. 21.

For more information on special events or to purchase tickets, visit www.LincolnChildrensMuseum.org or call (402) 477-4000 ext. 106.

Insta

Winter is wonderful atLincoln Children’s Museum!

Winter is one of my favorite times of year. More than any

time, people are focused on fam-ily and tradition takes precedence. Like most people do, I have tra-ditions that I follow every holi-day season. Some of my favorites include a large dinner between Thanksgiving and Christmas with my mother’s side of the fami-ly, holiday music and decorating with my husband, and lots and lots of baking. The traditions that I have nurtured in my adult life are all rooted in traditions from my childhood. Every year I make baked goods for friends and family because I have such fond memo-ries of making sugar cookies with my mother, aunt and grandmother as a child.

The joy those cook-ie-baking ses-sions brought me as a child is some-thing I want to share with our campers at Lincoln C h i l d r e n ’ s Museum. Our two-day camp, Gifts & Goodies (just one of many elementa-ry camps we have during winter break!) is meant to do just that.

In Gifts & Goodies we will spend one day baking delicious treats and one day making hand-made gifts so our campers can spread holiday cheer with their family and friends. This is one of many ways families can make lasting memories and create new traditions with the help of Lincoln Children’s Museum. Guests might

also choose to visit Santa at our Holiday S p e c t a c u l a r event on the evening of Dec. 5; create a candy house in one of our Candy House Funshop work-shops, or ring

in the New Year at Make Believe Midnight. And if you prefer to keep your traditions home-based, let me suggest a snowman-build-ing contest for the first big snow-storm, backyard sledding, lots of hot chocolate, decorating with handmade paper snowflakes or a holiday card making party for your family.

Family Fun and Holiday Traditions with Lincoln Children’s MuseumBy Miss Regina Flowers,

Education Director at Lincoln Children’s Museum

So, no matter what holidays you choose to observe, or how you celebrate with your loved ones, your friends at Lincoln Children’s Museum wish you the best this holiday season!

For more information, please visit www.lincolnchildrensmuse-um.org or call (402)477-4000.

For more Holiday events check out the article on page 33 and the Lincoln Kids Calendar of events section!

“Life is Sweet”by Skyler Henry,

Age 8

Lincoln Kids!

Page 6 • lincolnkidsinc.com

As we bundle up and pre-pare for the cold weath-er and holidays ahead,

it is also time to start planning and making gifts to give. Handmade gifts are a unique and meaningful way to spread holiday cheer. One of my favorite gifts that I made as a child was a clay tree ornament. You don’t even need a kiln to do this one at home – just cornstarch, and glue! Mix 1 cup white school glue with 1 cup cornstarch. You can then use your cookie cutters to create festive shaped ornaments. Use a straw to make the hole for the string, let it dry, paint it, and then give it to a loved one or your-self!

Once you have tried this activ-ity, join us at the LUX–we can

‘Tis the Season for Art-Making: Creative Gift Ideas for All!

show you and your children other ways to get creative. We have Holiday Gift Making classes for kids ages 5-9 and 10-13 as well as fun family holiday work-shops through December. We are also starting a whole new set of kids and adult classes starting in January. Keep an eye out for our Coffee & Creativity series of art classes for adults, they run at the same time as our kids classes so the whole family can get creative at the same time!

Register for classes online at luxcenter.org or call us at 402-466-8692. LUX Center for the Arts is located in historic University Place at 2601 N. 48th at the cor-ner of 48th and Baldwin in north Lincoln. Free parking available. For information contact Lindsey Clausen, Director of Education at lindsey@luxcenter.org.

By Lindsey Clausen, Education Director, LUX Center for the Arts

“Easter Island Head” by Samantha Kiesling

Christensen, age 8

Tween Birthday Party Animal Cups

“Easter Island Head” byThea Blanton, age 8

Winter 2014 Page 7

Lincoln Kids!

$1.99 Kids Meals Every Day 5–8 p.m. with adult purchase.

(40¢ extra)

Tis the holiday season. If you are able to get out and enjoy, this is

your time. When you are a mom of younger children, these frigid months may drag on. While you already may promote the bigger holidays at your house, here are some lesser-known celebrations that you can observe as a family even if you are stuck inside.

November

3rd “National Sandwich Day” Grab the Pb and slather the jelly. Or if you want to try one of our family’s favorite kinds, forego the jam and top with marshmal-low crème instead. Originating in Massachusetts, this fluffernutter sandwich has been around for a century. Chocolate syrup drizzled on top is optional.

11th “Origami Day” Books demonstrating this

papercraft are available at the library or online. As this date also happens to be Veteran’s Day, search “origami flag” to find your own tutorial in being patriotic.

13th “World Kindness Day” I think we could use this holiday every day at our house. Is there a sibling kind-ness day? That might be the one that we need.

25th “Parfait Day” How fitting is it that this holiday

precedes the Thanksgiving Feast Day? Evidently “perfect” is exact-ly what “parfait” means in French. Layer fruit and yogurt or cream with granola or nuts. Magnifique!

December4th “National Cookie Day”

Need to know when to start the baking season? How about today? For an easy twist, wrap refrigerated dough around a candy bar. Bake at the r e q u e s t e d temperature at the shortest time on the directions. Is this date too soon in the month? You can always wait until “Bake Cookies Day” on the 18th.

Finding activities between the 4th and Christmas is pretty easy to do. What about for the days that seem too long after the 25th?

The 27th just happens to be “Make Cut-out Snowflakes” day.

Bacon Day follows on the 30th – add a few pancakes and watch for the smiles.

January3rd “Drinking Straw Day” Not just for

beverages, these skinny cylinders can be the basis of all sorts of arts and craft projects.

Bubble Wrap Appreciation Day? You Bet!Feeling really brave? Dip a straw in watercolors, then blow gen-tly to spread the paint around. Supervision is recommended for this one!

8th “Argyle Day” A per-

fect day to get your plaid on. These fun stripes and solid combina-

tions are also perfect for little hands that are learning to color in the lines. Search “argyle coloring sheets” to discover printables that can be the basis for patterned mas-terpieces.

13th “Rubber Duckie Day” Try a bath with a twist. If there happens to be snow on the ground, fill the tub with cold instead of hot. Only mittens are needed until the fun melts away. Your child may discover that duckies enjoy scaling mountains as much as they like sailing in “tropical” seas.

27th “Bubble Wrap Appreciation Day.”

If you can handle the inevitable noise, this will provide hours of fun. Stomp. Jump. Tiptoe to see how many bubbles you can miss. When your kids tire of this, cover a new sheet of bubble wrap with washable paint – press on paper for an instant bubbly picture.

30th Congrats – you have almost survived three months of cold. Celebrate “Croissant Day,” preferably the ones with chocolate chunks. Sharing is optional.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Writing at HYPERLINK www.odysseythroughnebraska.com, Gretchen enjoys telling all about Nebraska places to go and people to know. She also happens to be one of the mommy bloggers at www.goodlifemoms.com and manages to Homeschool her four children. Usually with a happy heart. Especially if she eats a daily dose of chocolate. The above celebration dates were found at www.daysoftheyear.com, but the explanations are her own.

By Gretchen M. Garrison

Page 8 • lincolnkidsinc.com

Lincoln Kids!

Choosing Books as Gifts

Books make extraordi-nary gifts for several reasons. Foremost, is

the pure joy one feels when pass-ing on a book you have loved, or found especially informative, to an appreciative recipient. The pleasure is multiplied when an adult makes a choice for a child. You are giving the young per-son, something that he or she can return to, and passing a bit of your cultural knowledge onto the next generation.

For very young children, best beloved picture books, in a board book format are always welcome. They can be paired up by author or subject, e.g., two Eric Carle selec-tions, or two books about kanga-roos. Especially appealing for the very youngest set are books with photos featuring everyday objects. They come with titles like, My First 100 Words, or Things In and Out of the House. These books provide hours of sharing pleasure, enhance vocabulary, and provide lots of opportunities to talk. This kind of interactive talk, is one of the most important build-ing blocks of early literacy.

Newly independent readers can be tricky to purchase for because the books written for them vary so much in number of unique words, and words per page. Gauging from

the books the child finds “easy” to read, shoot for the next level to present a bit of a challenge. In addition to delightful fictional titles, first readers about a plethora of topics including animal care, the Titanic, and dinosaurs are also available. Non-fiction can start a reading fire in some children, who previously were uninterested in reading because the subject matter sparks an interest.

A great gift for an elementa-ry-aged reader is a classic that’s a tad bit out of their reading comfort zone. Most children this age are ready to take on an older classic, such as The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett, or A Wrinkle in Time by Madeline L’Engle. More modern classics, like Holes by Louis Sachar or The Birchbark House by Louise Erdrich, will introduce young

readers to authors that write the kind of high quality books for youth that stand the test of time. Check out our Top 100 Novels for Youth at:lincolnlibraries.com/Kids/100BestNovels.pdf on our website for more ideas.

I don’t know any child, espe-cially a tween or teen, who doesn’t love perusing an almanac or The Guinness Book of World Records. These types of com-pendiums come in many flavors: sports, pets and freaky facts, all are sure to please.

Teens have their own bookstore section and there’s no shortage of book published for this age group. National Public Radio’s (NPR), Your Favorites: 100 Best-Ever Teen Novels, www.npr.org/2012/08/07/157795366/your-favorites-100-best-ever-teen-nov-els, is my go-to list for sharing recommended books for this age group. Everything from Catcher in the Rye, to Nick & Norah’s Infinite Playlist, this diverse list has something for every type of reader, with plenty new to discov-er for those seeking to branch out.

Our own Young Adult Librarian, Susan Steider, publishes a news-letter highlighting new and note-worthy books for teens. Called Susan’s Speculations, you can subscribe and receive it via email roughly once a month. Check out the latest one here, http://library.booksite.com/7142/nl/?list=CN-L19&group=current

Each year, I present ideas for Good Book to Give as Gifts, fea-turing about 30 of the year’s best books for youth and a smattering of adult titles I think would make your best friend, parent or sig-nificant other happy. These talks are free and open to the public. Schedule below:

Wednesday, December 3, Lunch at the Library, 12:10-1:00 p.m. at Bennett Martin Public Library,

Friday, December 5, Bethany Book Talks, 10:30 a.m. at Bethany Library.

Monday, December 8, Gere Book Talks, 2:30-4:00 p.m. at Gere Library.

By Vicki Wood, Youth Services Supervisor, Lincoln City Libraries

Open 7:15 am to 5:45 pm – Part or Full Time Available

The Child’s Viewa Montessori School

3341 Pioneers Blvd. Lincoln 402-484-8277For Ages 18 months to 6 years

Suzuki violin lessons

For a Refreshing Alternative to Daycare:

Certified Professional Montessori TeachersKindergarten Program Certified through Nebraska Department of Education

Honoring Dr. Montessori’s Vision of the Child’s PotentialKit & Dick Schmoker ReadingCenter

For application assistance, contact:Melisia Bieber, Reading Center Associate(402)-472-3532, readingcenter@unl.edu

Tutoring For Struggling Readers 1st–6th

To learn more about the Schmoker Reading Center: Apply on-line at: http://cehs.unl.edu/tlte/readingcenter/

Is your child reading one or more years below grade level?

The Kit & Dick Schmoker Reading Center offers tutoring for students grades 1st – 6th. One-on-one instruction is provided in: phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, comprehension, and writing skills.

Lincoln Kids!

Winter 2014 Page 9

Now Enrolling

Reaching Children through the Power of God’s Love.

For information and tuition rates call: 402-477-1710email us at: rlpreschool@yahoo.com

or visit our website at: redeemerlincoln.org

• Christ-centered 2, 3 & 5 day sessions• Traditional Preschool 8:30-11:30• Limited Space Available

Redeemer LutheranPreschool• All the latest styles for your child

• Specially trained children’s stylists• Video games and special play area• Adult haircuts and facial waxing for

moms and dads as well.

Specializing in Squirmers!

We Accept Debit & Credit

Cards! 402-484-7866 • 237 S. 70th, Suite 106

Hours: Monday-Friday 9:30am – 5:45pm Saturday 9:00am – 2:45pm

Moms & Dads getgreat haircuts too!

Harris Academy of the Arts Celebrates Ten Years of Music Education

Harris Academy of the Arts, a private lesson and group class studio

located here in Lincoln, celebrat-ed its ten year anniversary with a bang on Sunday, September 21 at the Harris Academy of the Arts’ studio, located on 29th Street and Pine Lake Road. The celebration included a faculty showcase con-cert, pie throwing, games, prize giveaways, food, sample lessons, photo booth, and much more.

Harris Academy of the Arts began in 2004 under the leadership of owner and director, Vicki Harris, who had been teaching piano and violin out of her home since 1984. The business has expanded and moved two times since then, allowing the capacity for growth

in student en ro l lmen t and a wider variety of class options. C u r r e n t l y , Harris is privileged to have front row seats to the musical development of 350+ students – young to young at heart, beginning to advanced.

Vicki explained how she is very proud of the growth of the business and how rewarding it can be. “It’s hard to believe that we’ve been in business for 10 years. Though many hours go into running a successful business, it has all been very rewarding!” When asked

what she looks forward to in the next ten years, she responded by saying, “I am often asked if I want the business to continue to

grow. Perhaps – if it is good for the business and the students. Of greatest importance, providing top quality music education with expanded music offerings relevant and pertinent for our students and families”. And that’s what Harris strives to do-provide top quality music education for students of any age who want to learn and grow in their musical abilities.

The 10 year anniversary show-case was a way for Harris Academy of the Arts to thank the families and students for their dedication to the growth of music education. About 150 people joined in the variety of musical games, food, and activi-ties which included musical chairs, musical bingo, “Guess that Tune”, among others. Harris Academy of the Arts will continue to celebrate this milestone throughout the year and welcomes the Lincoln com-munity to join.

To learn about private lessons, class options, schedule, and pric-ing, please visit harrisacademyoft-hearts.com or call (402) 423-7121.

La Petite Academy Receives Special Accreditation

The two La Petite Academy locations in Lincoln have started the school year

with brand new NECPA accred-itations! The two schools were honored with the accreditation for having high quality early child-hood programs and as a child care center of excellence. With a focus on quality care and education, La Petite Academy’s Journey™ Curriculum emphasizes language and literacy, cognitive develop-ment, social-emotional skills, physical activity and creativity. Children who attend the school

engage in excit-ing learning activities specif-ically designed to meet their d e v e l o p m e n -tal needs, and to help them advance to the next level of learning in ele-mentary school. While work-ing to ensure all our children meet the devel-opmental goals we’ve mapped

out in our School Readiness Pathway, we provide unique experiences tai-lored around every child’s individual needs. The Pathway gives a consistent academic, data-based framework that defines what the children in our schools will be learning at each

stage of their development. In addition to our School Readiness

Pathway, we offer dance, soc-cer and Spanish programs and take part in events for October Literacy Month such as “Read For The Record” and our annual Fall Festivals. For more informa-tion about La Petite Academy in Lincoln or to tour our accredited schools, visit LaPetite.com or call 877-704-6313 today.

Lincoln Kids!

Page 10 • lincolnkidsinc.com

Now Enrolling for 2015A Christian–based, academic preschool with a

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402-840-1196 MyLittleLearners.com

Little LearnersChristian Preschool

5521 Shady Creek CourtWhere everyday is a BIG adventure in learning!

Life at Work is a Real Zoo! By John Chapo, President/CEO of the Lincoln Children’s Zoo

Where do all of the animals go when the Zoo closes for the

season?” is without a doubt THE most asked question every year at the zoo. Well, EVERY animal except the ponies stay right here in Lincoln at the Lincoln Children’s Zoo.

The Zoo has built new facil-ities which are heated for those tropical animals that live here all year long. Like the monkeys from South America they love their big spacious building complete with central heat and natural sunshine coming through the skylights over-head. The tropical and beautiful flamingos also have a home with lots of heat and skylights. And on warm winter days the flamingos venture outside to stretch their legs and warm up in the Nebraska winter sun.

“Where do all of the animals go when the Zoo closes for the season?”

“Good question!” A. Florida with me. B. My house. C. Other.

And because the animals are here every day of the year, so are the Zookeepers. Even when there is a blizzard and school is closed for the weather when a snow day is declared. The Zookeepers trek through the blowing and deep snow to make certain that the zoo animals are well taken care of. The zookeepers even will stay over-night if they are afraid they won’t make it back to the zoo because of pending blizzards, storms, etc.

And when Lincoln kids are home enjoying those special fam-ily holidays, such as gathering

under the family Christmas tree, there are zookeepers at the Lincoln Children’s Zoo making certain that the Zoo animals are fed, cared for and are happy.

Yes, the Lincoln Children’s Zoo animals stay here everyday, no matter the weather or the special occasion and they receive tender loving care every day as well from the great animal care team.

Lincoln Kids!

Winter 2014 Page 11

Winter Swimming Lessons

52nd & Stockwell402-486-2525

Warm Water & Good Times!Classes are taught Monday/Wednesday or Tuesday/Thursday at 4:30 pm and 5:30 pm

We also book the best priced birthday pool parties in town.

Call us today!

Sessions Run: Registration Begins:

December 1 – 11 November 11 Jan. 20 – Feb. 11 December 9Feb. 16 – March 5 February 3

Visitors to the Nature Center do it all the time. They walk into the

Prairie Building and approach the desk to say “hi” or ask a question. At some point while they are walk-ing up or while visiting at the desk they notice him… Jake. Who is Jake? He is a snake… specifically a bullsnake. Once people see him they express a variety of emotions: awe, shock, fear, disgust, interest and love. Yes love, many people love Jake.

He is a mild mannered, beauti-ful yellow, black and brown, 5 ½ foot long bullsnake. He lives in an aquarium that is right below the front desk counter. Before com-ing to live at the Nature Center in 2001, Jake was a classroom pet at Prescott. Jake often hides under his rock or lounges in his water dish.

Sometimes he stretches out and slithers around his tank. If you are really lucky you might be there when he’s being fed or watch him take a drink of water.

One Nature Center employee said she watched Jake eat 12 mice in one sitting! She was able to see the 12 lumps in his body as he slowly digested all those mice. These days Jake is fed once every 10 days and is only offered up to 5 mice. Because he is exother-mic he doesn’t need to eat as often as us to stay warm. Instead he is the same temperature as his surroundings. Jake also doesn’t exercise much!

Jake is fascinating to observe or hold. I enjoy watching how he moves his body and glides from

here to there. He slides on the smooth scoots that line his belly. Pushing from side to side with his

powerful muscles, he moves by pushing off like an ice skater pro-pelling himself along.

The ridged scales on his back ripple as he twists and turns. The scales are bumpy to the touch and feel like a basketball. He is not slimy as some people might think! Many folks who visit the Nature Center want to touch Jake; they enjoy petting his smooth body and feeling how strong he is when he flexes. Unfortunately there are times when we can’t pet Jake. This is usually when he is shedding. When snakes get ready to shed they can become cranky and no one wants to be around a 5 ½ foot long cranky snake!

So how do we know when he is going to shed? Well, the first thing we may notice are the color of his eyes. His eyes will turn a milky blue color and when that happens he can’t see well. When snakes can’t see well they can be defensive. Another clue to when a snake is going to shed is when their scales look dull. After several days of looking dry and pale, Jake will shed. He likes to soak in his water dish to loosen the dry skin. Eventually he works some of the skin off of his head and it starts to peel back. If it is a good shed it will come off in one inside out piece of snake skin like when you pull off your sock. Other times it comes off in pieces and then Jake will soak in his bowl until it all comes off. Either way when he is done shedding Jake is back to his bright and shiny self!

If you are at the Nature Center stop by the Prairie Building and say “hi Jake!” He likes visitors and we like our gentle giant.

Jake the Beloved BullsnakeBy Andrea Faas, Naturalist, Pioneers Park Nature Center

2740 A StreetLincoln, NE 68502402-441-7847parks.lincoln.ne.govF T #LNKparksrec

Pioneers Park Nature Center3201 S. Coddington Ave.

402-441-7895 | naturecenter@lincoln.ne.gov

Holiday Break FUN

Drop N’ ShopMonday, December 22 from 9am - 12pm

Got some last minute Christmas shopping to finish or holiday preparations? Leave your kids at the Nature Center for a morning of fun activities. Call 402-441-7895 for more information and to

reserve your childs spot by December 19th!

Music and Story TimeFriday, Jan 2 from 10-11 am

Make some music, listen to stories and get your sillies out! Call 402-441-7895 for more info and to register by December 30!

Playful Puppets: Animals in WinterMonday, Dec 29 from 10-11 am

Enjoy a puppet show and learn what the animals of the Nature Center are up to in the winter. Register by Dec 26.

fun

da

me

nta

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Andrea Faas with Jake the Bullsnake

Lincoln Kids!

Page 12 • lincolnkidsinc.com

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Winter in Nebraska can be so much fun with snow and special

holidays to celebrate. Watching your dog gleefully bound through the yard after the first snowfall is always an entertaining moment.

Unfortunately, we have seen pets come through the Humane Society that have suffered because they were not properly protected from the cold or were exposed to other hazards. Help your pets enjoy the season by keeping them safe and pre-venting accidents.

“I’ve seen a few cases of frost bite,” said Dr. Laura Andersen, Director of Veterinary Medicine at Capital Humane Society.

“Dehydration can also be a problem if animals are left outside since the water in their bowls can freeze thus making it inaccessible to them. For small pets, it is best to keep them indoors, especially at night when it is coldest,” she advised.

“It is always important to make sure outdoor pets have everything they need,” she added, “such as shelter and accessible water

regardless what time of year it is.”

Your pet doesn’t want to be roaming around lost in freezing t e m p e r a t u r e s . Accordingly, pets should always wear identifica-tion tags in case they slip out of the house or yard. Microchipping is also an important form of identi-fication, and greatly increases the

odds that pets will be reunited with their fam-ilies.

“The other issue that some-times increases in frequency in winter months

is exposure to antifreeze and subsequent kidney damage,” Dr. Andersen cautioned.

“Antifreeze tastes sweet and if spilled in an area where a pet has access, such as the garage, they may ingest it. The ethylene glycol in antifreeze damages animals’ kidneys, often causing them to fail and leading to death.”

Avoid this dan-ger by thorough-ly cleaning up

any antifreeze spills immediately. Also, if your pet walks through any dan-gerous substances outside in the win-ter months, take the time to wipe off their paws and underbel-ly after returning so that no chemicals are ingested.

It’s a good idea to think about using pet-safe products for deic-ing on your property and embit-tered antifreeze in your car. Dr. Andersen explains, “Embittered antifreeze has an additive that makes the antifreeze less attractive or less tasty for pets thus decreases the risk that animals would want to drink it.”

“Of course, cleaning up after spills is the best approach,” she noted, “however, using embittered antifreeze is a good option for peo-ple out on farms with free roaming cats or dogs since it may not be

Tips to Help your Pets Enjoy the Winter WeatherBy Charleen Engberg, Director of Volunteers and Education, Capital Humane Society

possible to always control if, when or where their vehicle leaks the antifreeze.”

“Other issues during the holiday months include pets eating things they shouldn’t, such as chocolate, certain plants, or decorations,” she added. “It is always important to pet-proof your house or area where your pet is housed to pre-vent them from getting into things that could harm them.”

Take the time to arm yourself with knowledge on the subject of cold weather pet care so you can avoid dangers. Then enjoy a merry season with your thankful furry friend by your side.“Antifreeze tastes sweet

and if spilled ...in the garage, (pets) may ingest it causing

damages to the kidneys...often causing them to fail

and can lead to death”

Winter 2014 Page 13

Lincoln Kids!

What to Do in Winter?

I am going to be brutally hon-est with you. I do not like winter. I do not like the

unpredictable ice. I do not like the harsh wind. And above all, I do not like the bitter cold. I often wish I were a box turtle or a Big Brown Bat and could hibernate through the cold winter months. But, the sad truth is that I must endure Nebraska’s winters! My children would never allow me to hibernate, and my job would frown upon me not showing up for 5 months!

So I have decided to embrace winter. Rather than huddle in my bed, I have purchased a warm pair of boots, a ridiculously warm (and ridiculously looking) hat and a great winter coat. I have decided that winter is not just for staying inside and reading books or bak-ing cookies; it is a perfect chance to see nature in a different light. Winter is actually an amazing time to explore nature, get active out-side and have fun with family.

I challenge you to try some of these fun winter activities. Your mental and physical health will thank you!

• Be creative! Don’t make the typical snowman; rather make a

snow deer, a snow mountain lion, or a snow owl. Let your imagination run wild.

• Paint the snow. Mix food coloring and water in a squirt bottle or water bottle. Then, use the snow as your canvas.

• Head outside to look for animal tracks. You will find them in the snow or mud left after the snow melts. I like looking for tiny bird tracks in a light dusting of snow. You can search around your house or head to a local park. Nebraska’s State Parks or a local nature center also make a great place to look for a diversity of animal tracks.

• Head out to look for wildlife. Many of Nebraska’s wildlife spe-cies do not migrate or hibernate. They stay active throughout the cold months. Winter is a great time to look for birds – there are no leaves on trees and it is often quiet on winter mornings. To help you identify what you see, check out the Nebraska Bird Library – www.nebraskabirdlibrary.org.

• Find some wood and a fire pit and build a winter bonfire. Even better is to bring along gra-ham crackers, marshmallows and chocolate to make s’mores. Your backyard fire pit will work great, or head to a State Recreation Area

By Lindsay Rogers, Wildlife Education Specialist for the

where fire pits are just waiting for you!

• Go on a treasure hunt! Divide into teams; the first team to find all the items wins. Look for a twig shaped like the letter “W”, a feather from a bird, a leaf still clinging to a tree, an acorn waiting to be eaten, a pinecone on the ground, a squirrel’s nest high in a tree’s branches, a berry from a bush and a track in the snow (or mud).

• As a light snow begins to fall, lay a dark colored blanket on the ground. Sit and watch the snowflakes land on the dark back-ground. You will be amazed at the size, shape and diversity of snowflakes.

I often talk of the benefits of spending time in nature. Reduced stress, better sleep, decreased blood pressure, increased ability to concentrate, and increased immu-nity – just to name a few. These benefits are there for the taking no matter the season. Consider this your invitation to go outside!

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Lincoln Kids!

Page 14 • lincolnkidsinc.com

Love In Infancy Will Go Far!

Providing a goodnight “squeeze”, as my daugh-ter says, as part of her

bedtime routine is just one exam-ple of providing love in infancy. Recent research suggests a loving and affectionate parent in infancy may make for better adjusted chil-dren later in their life.

The study looked at the rela-tionships of 86 15-month-old infants with at least one parent involved and then followed the relationship until the children were age 8. The study shows that infants who formed a close bond with even one parent, mother or father, were less likely to have emotional and/or behavioral prob-lems when they reach school age. Infants who had a close relation-ship with both parents did not have additional mental and emotional benefits compared to those who had a close relationship with only one parent. This is great news for the two growing types of parents in the U.S.; single mothers and stay-at-home fathers. The find-

ings provide evidence about the influence the parents have at the earliest stages of a child’s mental and emotional development.

Early intervention (first three years of life) is the most criti-cal period when a mother and/or father should form a secure relationship with their baby. Their social and emotional development is impacted during this time.

Examples of positive social skills your child(ren) could gain would include:

• Making eye contact• Communicating• Listening• Sharing• Taking turns• Good sportsmanship

Examples of emotion develop-ment your child(ren) could gain would include:

• Sense of comfort• Displaying confidence• Feeling safe and secure• Waiting patiently• Using healthy coping skills• Gaining trust• Developing a conscience (learning right from wrong)

So make a commitment to embrace your child. Providing hugs, kisses, and “squeezes” in infancy will only make for a stronger child. Remember when at least one parent invests their time,

your child(ren) could be more socially and emotionally sound for the years to come.

If you feel like the bond with your child is tense or even dam-aged, you can contact Anita K. Lovell, MA, LMHP, CPC to start working on a specific treatment plan to enhance your relationship with your child. Don’t waste time as your child is growing every day! You can reach Anita at 402-325-0117 ext. 3 to schedule an appointment today.

By Anita K. Lovell, MA, LMHP, CPC, Adultspan Counseling

Find out how music and movement can

nurture your young child’s mind and body!

Call for a free demonstration classand ask about our unlimited classes with enrollment special!

Kindermusik of LincolnShawna Gordon, Director 402-770-1486 kindermusikoflincoln.comwww.kindermusikoflincoln.com

We all know that fruits and vegetables are the healthier choice

to eat, but why aren’t they making it to our plates? The taste? Texture? Flavor? Cost? Or perhaps a picky family. Did you know that it can take 9 to 11 times of offering a food to a child before they really decide to like it or leave it? Even as adults, we may like a food that we passed on when we were younger. Let me help take some of the barriers away from adding color to our plates.

In Nebraska, it costs on average $1.70 per day to eat five servings of fruits and vegetables. A serving

counts as a medium-sized piece of fruit or vegetable, ½ cup chopped fruit or vegetables, or 1 cup of leafy greens. One way to meet or beat the average cost for five servings is to shop in season. The produce that has the lowest price-per-serving includes watermelon, banan-as, apples, cabbage, potatoes, and leafy greens. Add some seasonal produce such as egg-plants, summer squash, pineapple, and pears to mix things up.

Another way of saving is to price match. Don’t be afraid to bring gro-cery ads to stores that price match. When the cashier gets to the apples you want price matched, show them

5-4-3-2-1 Go Eat Your Veggies!the competitor’s ad right then so they can change the price. This saves you time and money from making trips to multiple stores.

Two other cost–saving tips relate back to food waste. To make sure your money isn’t wasted on spoiled food, buy only a small amount to start out with and see how fast your family eats it. Did they eat it all? If so, buy a little more produce next time and do the same observation. Next, don’t let your precious pro-duce rot in their bags. Pull out your cutting board and start washing and chopping your lettuce, peppers, cel-ery, carrots and melons. Cook your sweet potatoes in the slow cooker or oven (skip the extra calories by trying them plain or with just cin-namon). Then divide everything

Submitted by Angelina Stovall-Amos, MS, Public Health Educator, Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department

into baggies or small containers for grab n’ go snacks or to quickly add to omelets and smoothies.

Finally, a quick way to solve the taste, texture, and flavor barriers would be to prepare the fruits and vegetables in different ways (i.e. roast, poach, grill, puree, steam, season, sauté, and simply eat them RAW). It’s amazing how different a food can taste, feel, and smell when cooked differently. So try these cost-saving strategies to get more color onto your fami-ly’s plates. Then, for more quick tips and downloadable resources go to: lincoln.ne.gov/city/health/educat/disease.htm and learn more about counting your family’s way to health through the simple, evi-dence-based 5-4-3-2-1 Go!

Winter 2014 Page 15

Lincoln Kids!

What You Should Know About Enterovirus D68By Dr. Philip Boucher, Lincoln Pediatric Group, LLC

Office HoursMonday–Thursday

8 am-7:00 pmFriday

8 am-4:30 pmSaturday

8 am-2:00 pmSunday

12:30 pm-4:30 pm

William P. Swisher, M.D., F.A.A.P. Douglas D. Ebers, M.D., F.A.A.P. Jeffrey J. David, M.D., F.A.A.P. Kurstin L. Friesen, M.D., F.A.A.P. Michael J. Germer, M.D., F.A.A.P. Kay L. Anderson, M.D., F.A.A.P.Joel A. Greisen, M.D., F.A.A.P.Jason J. Davis, M.D., F.A.A.P.Heather A. Dews, M.D., F.A.A.P.Carrie A. Dell, M.D., F.A.A.P.Philip T. Boucher, M.D.Dallas D. Schlegel, PA-CJulie E. Timme, PA-CBecky D. Waegli, PA-CMichael J. Huckabee, PA-CValerie A. Vernon, PA-CMaureen Garvin, PA-C

Lincoln Pediatric Group, LLC • 402-489-38344501 S. 70th, Suite 110, Lincoln

Welcome Dr. Philip Boucher.

Now Accepting New Patients.LINCOLN

PEDIATRIC GROUP, LLC

www.lincolnpedsgroup.com

There’s no doubt you’ve heard about enterovirus D68 in the past couple of

months. This common respiratory virus has swept headlines across the country. I have seen a num-ber of children with colds in my clinic whose parents only brought them in because of concern that they had “the enterovirus”. News reports show children with trouble breathing, hooked up to oxygen or even needing a breathing tube. Tragic news broke several weeks after the initial story was losing steam when a child in New Jersey died from the virus. Stories like this are enough to make a parent want to keep their child away from anyone with the sniffles!

Enterovirus is one of the most prevalent viruses in children and

especially prevalent in the summer months. Enterovirus and rhinovi-rus are among the most common causes of the common cold. It’s been around for a long time caus-ing several days of runny noses, coughs, and fevers in most kids. The enterovirus family of viruses is also the cause of the common childhood rash condi-tion known as Hand, Foot, and Mouth dis-ease. Rarely, more serious infections of the lung, heart, and brain can be attribut-ed to enterovirus infection.

Most children who catch entero-virus have typical cold symp-toms including runny nose, sore throat, cough, and fever. The typ-ical course last 5-7 days and kids are usually back to their normal self within 10 days. This summer, enterovirus D68 has made news because symptoms have been worse for some. Children with asthma or other lung conditions seem prone to develop more severe respiratory symptoms with entero-virus infection. Most children improve with simple supportive care measures like managing pain/fever, ensuring adequate hydra-tion, and clearing stuffed noses. Some children, especially those with underlying lung conditions, have required steroids, breathing treatments, and extra oxygen. The best way to prevent enterovirus and other cold viruses from getting to your child is proper & frequent hand-washing along with avoiding other sick children (easier said than done!!). If your child has asthma, talk with your pediatrician about properly controlling their condition when they are feeling well to avoid worse complications when they are ill.

The worst of the enterovirus endemic in the Midwest seems to be passing. As the seasons

change, the prevalence of certain viral infections tends to change for unclear reasons. Although entero-virus made headlines and freaked out parents this summer, this pedia-trician is much more worried about

influenza this fall and winter. Flu season runs from October to April. Influenza is much more conta-gious and is NOT “just another cold” for most children. Children with the flu are SICK! They have high fevers, muscle aches, sore

throats, difficulty eating, and trou-ble breathing for at least 5-7 days. More than with any other viruses, children often require hospitaliza-tion to maintain hydration and support breathing. Influenza kills thousands of children and adults each year. Many that die were pre-viously completely healthy. Unlike enterovirus D68, we have a very safe and effective vaccine against influenza. All children over the age of 6 months should receive influenza vaccine. There is now a version of the vaccine widely available that can be sprayed in the nose rather than given as a shot! Protect everyone (including mom and dad!) this winter by frequent hand-washing, avoiding those who are ill, and getting a flu vaccine as early in the fall as possible.

Dr Boucher is a pediatrician at Lincoln Pediatrics Group. He blogs about pediatrics and parent-ing at reassuranceprovided.com

Lincoln Kids!

Page 16 • lincolnkidsinc.com

Register for one of the above classes/workshop and get Theatre Arts For Kids Day FREE!

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Theatre Arts For Kids DayOne-day musical theatre workshop for ages 3-15

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Theatre Arts For Kids is a newly formed non-profit organization (501c3) dedicated to providing quality performing arts training to children in the Lincoln and surrounding areas.

Scholarship information is available by contacting ta4kinfo@gmail.com

Lincoln Kids!

Winter 2014 Page 17

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Nutcracker at the Lied

The Lincoln Midwest Ballet Company will present its 30th anni-

versary production of the holiday classic, The Nutcracker, at the Lied Center for Performing Arts on Saturday, December 13, at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. and Sunday, December 14 at 2 p.m. The Lincoln Midwest Ballet Company’s Nutcracker fea-tures more than 200 dancers from southeastern Nebraska in a per-formance that also features a live orchestra and nationally-known guest artists. The classic story of The Nutcracker comes to life with the finest choreography, costumes, and scenery, making this produc-tion a treasured Lincoln tradition.

The cast of the Nutcracker is comprised of local dance stu-dents who are selected by audi-tion. Featured 2014 student solo-ists include: Pius X student Rose Kotopka, Clara; Lincoln East stu-dent Grace Mann, Demi Dew; and UNL student Emily Maldavs as Snow Queen.

The Artistic Director of the Lincoln Midwest Ballet Company’s Nutcracker produc-tion is Shari True. The Nebraska Symphony Chamber Orchestra, under the direction of Dr. Herbert E. Dregalla, Jr., will provide Tchaikovsky’s classic score.

Performances:

Saturday, December 13, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Sunday, December 14, 2 p.m.

Lied Center for Performing Arts

301 North 12th Street, Lincoln Ticket Information: Adult Ticket prices are $47, $34

and $27. Student tickets are avail-able for $34, $27 and $17. Tickets are on sale now at the Lied Center box office, (402) 472-4747 and at LiedCenter.org.

By Kirsten Drennon, Lincoln Midwest Ballet Company & Association of Nonprofit Executives Rally the Troops

Holiday Classic!for a

December 13 & 14, 2014Lincoln Midwest Ballet Company

Shari True, Artistic Director

Nebraska Symphony Chamber Orchestra

For Tickets Call 402.472.4747 or Visit LiedCenter.org

Photos by Purple Sky Production

Photos by Purple Sky Production

Lincoln Kids!

Page 18 • lincolnkidsinc.com

RED

YELLOW

GREEN

Drink Sometimes

Drink Freely

Drink Rarely, if at all

STOP!Rethink yourDRINK

Go OnGREEN

*Sports drinks are unnecessary for general consumption. They are for rehydration during high-intensity exertion such as marathon running or strenuous exercise outdoors on high heat index days (ex: summer soccer or football).

For more information visit www.healthylincoln.org

Choose the road to a

• Regular Sodas• Sports Drinks*• Sweetened Coffee Drinks

• Energy Drinks• Sweetened Tea• Fruit & Juice Drinks with added sugar

• Low Calorie Drinks• Low Sugar Drinks• Low Calorie Sports Drinks (ex: G2)

• Water• Seltzer Water• Skim or 1% Milk

• Unsweetened Tea• Unsweetened Coffee

HEALTHIER YOU!

Lincoln Kids!

Winter 2014 Page 19

Brent D. Johnson, DDS, MS

Call us today for an appointment

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I am occasionally asked wheth-er sports drinks are good for you. The answer is sometimes

we need sports drinks and some-times we don’t. Sports drinks were designed for specific reasons, but marketing and the pursuit of high-er sales have pushed sports drinks far beyond their intended purpose.

The history of sports drinks is quite an interesting story and starts in 1965 with the Florida Gators football team. One of the assistant coaches saw that play-ers often struggled an hour or so into practice and asked a group of university physicians if they could help. They found that dehydration and loss of electrolytes (sodium & potassium) through sweat were the main problem. They even collect-ed sweat from athletes to analyze its electrolyte composition. They used this to help guide the reci-pe for a beverage that helped fix the problem and give the football team a competitive edge. It later became marketed as a sports drink to help other athletes. The name of that beverage was based on the Florida team’s mascot – Gatorade. Now, no self-respecting football team would be caught without a cooler full of their favorite brand name sports drink on the sideline. Which brand ends up on the side-line mostly depends on who pays the most to be the sponsor.

Other athletes have found sports drinks to be helpful for their sports as well (e.g. soccer, basketball) and sometimes even life-saving (e.g. marathon runners). I’ve seen this myself covering the Lincoln marathon and even at one of my daughter’s soccer games last year

where the goalie collapsed from heat exhaustion on the field during a very hot and humid July game. The prevention and treatment for the problem was sports drinks.

The downside, though, is that marketing and the pursuit of increased sales has pushed sports drinks into places they don’t belong. Sports drinks are unnec-essary unless you are working out very hard (full court basketball, competitive runs), for sustained periods (an hour or more), and dripping with sweat (hot days or high intensity exertion). For most of us during our average work outs, water is just fine. There is no need for sports drinks for pick-up basketball games in the morning, a 2-3 mile jog, or most YMCA youth sporting events. The downside to the overuse of sports drinks is a lot of unnecessary calories that likely exceed the amount that was burned off. The classic example of this misuse is the “after game snack” brought by a parent, where our kids burn off about 100 cal-ories playing youth sports that is promptly replaced by 80 calories of Gatorade and a 150 calorie cup-cake or cookie. Unfortunately, this can negate the health benefit of your kid being involved in youth sports!

So in short, sports drinks are good when they are needed, but may add to our obesity problem when they are overused. Use sports drinks when there is a good reason, otherwise stick with water.

By Bob Rauner, MD, MPH Director of the Partnership for a Healthy Lincoln

Sports Drinks.

Do we really need them?

Ahh...Good ole’ cold fresh

water.

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3262 Salt Creek Circle8201 Northwoods Dr.

3901 Pine Lake Rd., Suite 2101336 West A Street, Suite B

Call us at 402-465-5600www.completechildrenshealthcare.com

Four Convenient Locations to serve you:

“Ocean Breeze”by Sara Mesecher, age 11,

student at Art Planet

Lincoln Kids!

Page 20 • lincolnkidsinc.com

Earn great pay and benefits as a telephone interviewer at Gallup.

Afternoon, evening, and weekend hours are available.

Two Lincoln locations:425 Fallbrook Blvd • Edgewood at 56th and Hwy 2

Apply Online: www.gallup.com/careers/gallupinterviewing

• Ballet • Pointe • Tap • Jazz • Lyrical • Hip Hop • Tumbling • Musical Theatre • Award Winning Competitive Company!

Give the Gift of Dance. Call us today!

Teaching, nurturing, and developing the future...

one child at a time.

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630 N. Cotner Blvd., Ste #200, 402-465-47697301 S. 15th St., 402-421-73016021 S. 56th St. 402-420-5440

• Educational Focus• Ages 6wks–12 years• Individual Attention• M–F 6:30am–6:00pm

• Video Security• Year-round Preschool• Summer Programs• Locally Owned

Three convenient locations

“Colorful Cat”by Asher Brannagan, age 5,

student at Art Planet

Lincoln Kids!

Winter 2014 Page 21

Explore the night sky at the University of Nebraska State Museum

of Natural History in Morrill Hall during our new children’s program Starry, Starry Night. On select Thursday evenings in December and January, we will tilt our heads back and examine the winter sky. Kids will have fun discovering basic astronomy while visiting the the UNL Student Observatory.

Start the evening off by creat-ing the phases of the moon using Oreo cookies or reading a star chart. Pick up a NASA image to take home, before heading to the Mueller Planetarium. Director Zach Thompson will present “A Big Red Sky Tour” in the muse-um’s full dome planetarium.

Learn about constellations such as Orion the Hunter, Sirius the brightest star, and talk about what you can see in the night sky from your own backyard.

Then grab your flashlight and follow Archie to the UNL Student Observatory. Gaze through the 16-inch telescope to view constel-lations, double stars, the moon, and star clusters.

Starry, Starry NightBy Sarah Feit, Volunteer

Coordinator, University of Nebraska State Museum

Program Dates: • December 4th• December 11th• January 8th• January 22nd

Program Time: 6-7:30p.m.

Starry, Starry Night is designed for kids ages 6-10 and an adult chaperone. Program size is limited to 15 participants. Tickets are sold the day of, on a first come first served basis. Reservations will not be accepted. Regular museum and planetarium fees apply plus $2.00 per person. Museum members receive regular membership dis-counts. Activities and topics may be adjusted because of inclement weather.

For more information visit museum.unl.edu/starrynight or call 402-472-2642.

Kindergarten Round-Up & New Student Open House for Elementary School February 5 & 7, 2015. Visit our website for times and details.

(402) 483-7774 • christschools.org • 4325 Sumner St.

We offer:Elementary: Grades K-5

Child Care: Infants-Age 5Full Day Pre-Kindergarten Morning Preschool: Age 3

Morning & Afternoon Preschool: Age 4

Established in 1871, the University of Nebraska State Museum is the state’s premier museum of natural history. The Museum is focused on promoting discovery in natural science, fos-tering scientific understanding and interpretation of the Earth’s past, present and future and enhancing stewardship of the natural and cul-tural heritage of Nebraska through world class exhibits, collections and special events.

Lincoln Kids!

Page 22 • www.lincolnkidsinc.com

My Favorite Read-AloudsPublisher’s Note: This list comes from my cousin Ann Nye who owns the cutest book store ever! If

you are ever in the Twin Cities, this is a must see! Excelsior Bay Books is located at 38 Water Street, Excelsior, Minnesota. Call (952) 401-0932 for more information and ask for Ann.

Funny, interactive, bedtime, a little bit scary, ME JANE will bring a tear to your eye, TANGO has been banned numerous times, so there’s something for everyone here. All in all, a great list! -- Ann

Press Here by Herve’ Tullet Snip Snap! What’s That? by Mara Bergman ISBN 9780811879545 ISBN 9780060777548

Naked! by Michael Ian Black Me...Jane by Patrick McDonnell ISBN 9781442467385 ISBN 9780316045469

A House in the Woods by Inga Moore And Tango Makes Three by Justin Richardson ISBN 9780763652777 ISBN 9780689878459

How to Train a Train by Jason Carter Eaton A Visitor for Bear by Bonny Becker ISBN 9780763663070 ISBN 9780763646110

The First Drawing by Mordecai Gerstein Sleep Like a Tiger by Mary Logue ISBN 9780316204781 ISBN 9780547641027

Vanilla Ice Cream by Bob Graham ISBN 9780763673772

Open 6:30am – 6:00pm M-F

8310 Wendell Way • 402-483-4769

• Preschool curriculum beginning at age one• Sign language beginning at age 6 weeks• Before, after, and schools – out care• We offer swimming lessons, soccer, Taekwondo,

dance classes, and field trips

World of Knowledge Child Development Center

“Our early learning center will provide an environment where your child will feel safe,

happy, and rewarded.”

Ages 6 weeks - age 12

Register Now for 2015

worldofknowledgene.com

As I sit in the forest during

fall I listen to the falling and crackle of the leaves. I listen to all the squirrels running to their houses to get ready for hibernating throughout the long winter.

I listen to the geese fly over starting their long migration south. Which

together makes a beautiful harmony of sounds. It is music to my ears. Those

are the wonderful gifts of the forest in fall.

Seasonal Gifts - Falla poem

by Nima Faunce, age 10

Lincoln Kids!

Winter 2014 Page 23

For Holiday fun the place to be is the, Lincoln Children’s Museum.

Check out these fun events for your children:

Enjoy Santa, Snowball fights and Seasonal Delights at Lincoln Children’s Museum’s...

Holiday Spectacular Dec. 5, from 5- 8 p.m.

Event Highlights include: Party with your favorite friends from the North Pole! Meet Santa & Mrs. Claus. Visit Santa’s Workshop in the Discovery Gallery. Create winter art projects and holiday crafts Live music & dance per-formances. Regular admission or Museum membership applies.

The holiday season is best spent with family and friends, and what better way to kick it off than at Lincoln Children’s Museum’s U-Stop Holiday Spectacular event on Friday, Dec. 5 from 5-8p.m.!

Santa arrives at 5:30 p.m. in grand fashion before greeting guests and making his way to his very own Workshop on the Museum’s Lower Level. Santa’s Workshop opens the night of Holiday Spectacular and remains open through Dec. 24. Explore this magical space that offers little ones a hands-on glimpse at the world’s best toy factory. Santa’s Workshop brings together tradi-tions from around the globe in a magical way kids will love!

Inside Santa’s Workshop, the jolly man from the North Pole will visit with all of his biggest little

fans until 7:45 p.m. Visits with Santa are available on a first come, first serve basis. If you don’t get a chance to see Santa at Holiday Spectacular he will return to the Museum from 1-3 p.m. on Dec. 6, 13 and 20. Guests are welcome to use their own cameras and/or phones to capture the moment.

Santa isn’t the only attraction at the U-Stop Holiday Spectacular! Costumed characters like Frosty the Snowman, the Grinch and members of “The Nutcracker” ballet cast will be in attendance. Event guests will also be treated to carolers, a holiday decoration station, a special reading of “The Polar Express,” cookies and milk and an indoor snowball fight. All of this fun and festivity is sure to add some cheer to your night and start the holiday season off right!

Because of the special event, the Museum will close an hour early at 4 p.m. to allow staff time to reset for U-Stop Holiday Spectacular. Doors will open at 5 p.m. for the event. Museum membership or regular admission applies.

Candy House FunshopDec. 6, 7, 11, 13, 14, 18, 20 & 21.

Saturdays, Dec. 6, 13 & 20 – 10 & 11 a.m. and 1, 2 & 3 p.m.

Sundays, Dec. 7, 14 & 21 – 1, 2 & 3 p.m.

Thursday, Dec. 11 & 18 – 10 a.m. and 5 & 6 p.m.

Lincoln Children’s Museum supplies the 15” house frame, frosting & a variety of candies and decoration toppings. You bring the fun! Plus, we’ll even spare you the clean up!

By Michaella J. Kumke, PCM, Director of Marketing Lincoln Children’s Museum

Visit the Lincoln Children’s Museum for Holiday FunCost: $25 (per house) for

Museum Members; $30 for Non-members (includes 2 free admis-sions)

Families can purchase one house to work on together or create their own individual masterpiece.

Take-home kits available for $25. Please call 402-477-4000 to reserve a take-home kit. It is the perfect holiday activity for the entire family!

Make Believe Midnight Wednesday, Dec. 31,

from 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Have fun in the Bubblewrap Stomp, B107.3 Dance Zone with Party favors and hats!

Special program featuring Father Time & Baby New Year Red Carpet photo backdrop.

Countdown to Make Believe Midnight, complete with ball drop and balloon shower of more than 2,000 balloons.

Tickets required to attend: $8 for Members, $13 for Non-members; free admission for children young-er than 1 year. Ring in the New Year at Make Believe Midnight, Lincoln’s favorite end-of-year party! Families celebrate the close of one year and anticipate the arrival of the next and still make it home before bedtime! This one-of-a-kind party includes party favors, hats, a dance party, the famous Bubblewrap Stomp—our version of indoor fireworks and a special program featuring Father Time and Baby New Year. And no New Year’s party would be com-plete without a countdown and ball drop! Our ball drops at 8 p.m. and is immediately followed by more than 2,000 colorful balloons showering over guests!

Make Believe Midnight is an event families anticipate all year

long because it’s a special night to make special memories.

This is a special, ticket-ed event. Tickets must be pur-chased in advance, either online at LincolnChildrensMuseum.org or in person at the Museum. They are available for sale beginning November 21st.

Safe Kids, Smart Kids Saturday, Jan. 17, from 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

From car seat safety and aller-gies to playground safety and sports injuries, Safe Kids, Smart Kids is an enlightening event that reinforces the message that knowl-edge is power!

Learn tips straight from the experts on a variety of topics, like food allergies, medication han-dling, fire prevention and aware-ness, bike safety, stranger dan-ger education, sports injuries and home security. This event isn’t just for kids! It is a great introduc-tion for new parents—and a useful refresher course for a seasoned parent—about child and family safety.

Passport to PlaySaturday, Jan. 31,

from 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Experience new sites, sounds and people, without the expense of traveling abroad! All you have to do is attend “Passport to Play” at Lincoln Children’s Museum! This is the second annual event that introduces children to various cultures from around the world and celebrates people of diverse backgrounds who live right here in our community. At Passport to Play, children will have the oppor-tunity to experience each culture in action and learn what makes each one unique.

Ever Made a Ginger Bread House? Well here is your chance!

Lincoln Kids!

Page 24 • www.lincolnkidsinc.com.net

“Crazy Hair Day”by Brookyn Ridley, age 7, Lincoln Christian School.

Art Gallery

by Avry Victor, 8th grader, Cathedral of the Risen Christ

“Autumn Afternoon”by Erin Tichota, age 12,

Student at Art Planet.

“Wasp Kingdom” by Noah Slevin, age 8, Student at Art Planet’s Photography Summer Camp.

“Spider’s Web”by Heaton McHenry,

age 5, Student at Art Planet.“Shady Mountain”

by Skyler Henry, age 8.

“Untitled” by Maddie Penn, age 15, Student at Art Planet.

Lincoln Kids!

Winter 2014 Page 25

Dyslexia and ME!

I remember our reading groups in first grade. There was the advanced group, the

normal speed group, and the slow-er group, and no matter how hard I tried, I was always in the slower group. I would sit there and won-der why I could never get to the level of reading that my friends were at. I was always labeled as a slow reader. There was never a reason to question it further because my grades were always in the honor roll range.

Fast forward to last year as I began my freshman year of col-lege at Regis University in Denver, Colorado. At the age of nine, I was diagnosed with Type One Diabetes and, because of this, I take all of my tests in the disabili-ties center. As I was setting up my testing accommodations with my coordinator, she asked if there was anything else she could help me

with. I pondered for a moment and responded with “I read really slow-ly”. Caught off guard she began to ask me about my struggle with reading. Together, we came to the conclusion that I should look into being tested for a reading disabil-ity. I completed the testing a few weeks later and the results were as expected. My IQ is ranked as “high average” and yet my grades failed to reflect that, especially when it came to the ACT. I was told that I had a moderate reading disability, reading at the speed of a seventh grader. The school granted me audio books, which cut my homework time by over half, and extended time to complete my tests. I completed two of the hard-est semesters of nursing school

with a cumulative 3.5 GPA.

It was not until some time later when I returned home for a little summer break in Lincoln that I finally put a name to my reading dis-ability. My mom told me one night

that we were going to attend a movie about dyslexia hosted by the Nebraska Dyslexia Association. I was confused and adamant about the fact that I was not dyslexic. I never flipped numbers around or read backwards. As I sat through the “The Big Picture”, there were pieces I related to and pieces of the film I did not. I soon learned that dyslexia is a spectrum and every-one has different components to it. This whole new world of dys-lexia for me is huge. I am still in the process of learning what it all

encompasses. It is nice to have a label for something I have strug-gled with for so many years and at the same time it is hard to accept. With having Type One Diabetes, I can work on my management to have my blood sugars as close to normal as possible. With Dyslexia, there will always be a component that I cannot change or make more “normal”. I will always struggle with reading and spelling and writ-ing and memorization. However, at the same time people with dys-lexia are known for their creativity. So as I face this new journey I will use the gift I have been given as my motivation and not my crutch. Acceptance and adaptation is what will help me, us, to thrive.

For more information on Dyslexia and related reading problems, contact the Nebraska Dyslexia Association:

ne-da.org or 402-434-6434.

By Ashlee Ernst

If you struggle with reading, writing, spelling or reading comprehension, you like-

ly have dyslexia. Dyslexia is the most common learning disability, occurring in 12%-18% of children. It is a language-based learning dis-ability that is most often caused by a genetically programmed error in the brain’s wiring for reading. Therefore, children do not out-grow it. Whether an individual has a mild or severe form of “Dyslexia Spectrum Disorder”, there is a forty percent chance that his/her parent, child, or sibling will also have it.

Risk for dyslexia can be detect-ed as early as preschool in chil-dren who are late learning to talk or have difficulty rhyming, remembering object names, count-ing, and saying the alphabet, letter

names and sounds. In early ele-mentary, children with dyslexia often switch letters in words, as in aminal for animal or was for saw, stumble through long words, mis-read/omit common short words, read slowly, have difficulty listen-ing and following directions, have poor handwriting or spelling, or just have difficulty remembering what they read.

The urgency in diagnosing dys-lexia and in implementing a mul-tisensory, systematic, sequential, explicit instruction in phonemic awareness and phonics by first grade is that reading disability can be reduced to 1.6%-6% of children from the expected 12%-18%. If appropriate intervention is delayed until third grade, 74% of children will continue with reading difficul-ties through high school.

Functional MRIs have shown repeatedly that the brain pathways that an individual with dyslexia

uses for reading can be altered, resulting in the use of normal brain pathways for reading, as a result of implementing evi-dence-based reading instruction early. Essentially, the brain can be rewired and children will improve their reading, in both accuracy and speed, with appropriate instruction prior to third grade. If not imple-mented until after third grade, individuals with hereditary dys-lexia can improve in accuracy, but remain slow readers.

Those who have a form of dys-lexia, due to environmental depri-vation of reading books or poor school reading instruction, will also improve their reading accu-racy and speed with appropriate early instruction but, if after third grade, they usually remain both inaccurate and slow in reading.

Thirty percent of entrepreneurs have dyslexia. Many individu-als with dyslexia are exception-

ally bright, with gifts in music, art, sports, mechanics, physics or math. Many famous, success-ful people had dyslexia, such as Picasso, Edison, Walt Disney, Winston Churchill, Babe Ruth and John F. Kennedy, but they had to overcome dyslexia’s challenges. Eighty percent of our prison popu-lation is functionally illiterate, the majority likely having dyslexia. The key to preventing a lifetime of heartache struggling with reading, writing, spelling and/or reading comprehension is early identifica-tion and appropriate intervention. Think of the community resources we could mobilize by teaching ALL children to read.

And we already know how! For more information contact the Nebraska Dyslexia Association: ne-da.org or 402-434-6434.

Facts About Dyslexia: What we ALL need to know.By Eileen Vautravers, M.D.

(reprinted from LKN Fall 2005)

Winter 2014 Page 31

Lincoln Kids!

NovemberNovember 1, 9:00 amPrairie Run at Pioneers Park Nature Center, 3201 S. Coddington, 402.441.7895, parks.lincoln,ne.gov/naturecenter Want to experience the Nature Center in a whole new way? We are hosting our second trail run. One mile and a 5 K trails have been mowed through our northern and western sections of prairie to make room for this event. Everyone who registers by October 16th will get a special t-shirt for the event. Income generated from the event will support our land management program of restoring and maintaining our prairie and the animals that live there. Location: By the School House | Fee: $10/kids 1 mile, $20/adult 5K

November 1, 9:00 am – 12:00 pm How to build a Pallet Coaster at Home Depot, 3300 N 27th Street, 402-325-6200. FREE hands-on workshops; designed for children ages 5 – 12 are offered on the 1st Saturday at all The Home Depot. Come learn how to build a pallet coaster. All kid get to keep their craft, receive a FREE certificate of achievement, a Workshop Apron, and a commemorative pin while supplies last. Register online at http://workshops.homedepot.com/workshops/kids-workshops.

Mondays, November 3-November 24Grades 1st-8th (all ages), Mondays 7:00-8:00pm, $55/month. November: Beaded Bugs, Butterflies & Beautiful Beings at Art Planet, 402-610-2295; artplanetlincoln.com. Enjoy creating figurative pieces with beads, thread, wire and your imagination! Mother/Daughter pairs can register and attend class for the price of one!

November 3, 17, December 1, 15, 6:30-8:30 pmHang Time at Camp Sonshine, 13440 S. 25th St., Roca, 402-423-8746, campsonshinememories.org. For all 7th-10th graders, LITs, ACs and counselors to grow together in community, leadership and spiritually. Free

November 6, 4:30-6 pmBeginning BB Gun at Belmont Recreation Center, 402-441-6789. Indoor shooting activities for kids 8 - 15, 6 week session. Fee: $35/student.

November 6Out of Bounds at North Star High SchoolA “must-see” for kids and parents navigating cyberbullying in the social media age. Developed at the University of Iowa, Out of Bounds is about a teen who finds courage to face the situation and discovers new friendships along the way. Families are invited to join in a post-show interactive discussion led by local bullying experts.

Tuesdays, November 4-25November: Collage Art 1 at Art Planet, 402-610-2295; artplanetlincoln.com. Grades K- 3rd (ages 5-8), Tuesdays 5:15-6:15pm, $55/monthGrades 4th-6th (ages 9-12), Tuesdays 6:30-

Winter 2014 Calendar of Events: November, December, and January (2015)

If your organization would like a free Calendar listing in the next issue go to:

LINCOLNKIDSINC.COM - click on Submissionsor tell us about it on Facebook: LincolnKidsNewspaper

Spring 2015 Issue Deadline: January 10, 2015Months covered: February, March & April

Lincoln Kids! Newspaper Phone: 402-798-02247:30pm, $55/monthNovember 7, 11:00 AMClifford Visits Storytime at Barnes & Noble, SouthPointe Pavilions, 2910 Pine Lake Road, 402-421-7979, barnesandnoble.com. Clifford the Big Red Dog will be our special guest this morning! We will enjoy stories and pictures with everyone’s favorite over-sized canine. Don’t forget your cameras!

November 8 & 15Special Project: Suminagashi: $10 for 4 papers at Art Planet, 402-610-2295; artplanetlincoln.com. Suminagashi or “floating ink” is the process of marbling plain paper with water and ink to transform it into something vibrant and colorful. It originated in Japan as early as the 12th century. Captured on handmade paper, this art form is sure to capture YOU too!

November 8, 10 - 11 amScience Lab at Lowe’s, 6101 Apple Way, 402-420-3660, http://lowesbuildandgrow.com. Build and Grow Clinics are free to the public and occur select Saturdays at 10am. Below is a list of upcoming clinics. Registration opens a few weeks before each clinic’s date.

November 8, 10:00 am–NoonPop-up Card Making Class at Pioneers Park Nature Center, 3201 S. Coddington, 402.441.7895, parks.lincoln,ne.gov/naturecenter. Learn how to make extra special cards for fun or the holidays. Supplies with be provided, you bring the creativity and when the class is done you will have something unique to share. Participants ages 8 and up are welcome to attend. Register by November 4. Location: Prairie Building | Fee: $10/person

November 8, 11:00 amPaddington Bear Storytime at Barnes & Noble, SouthPointe Pavilions, 2910 Pine Lake Road, 402-421-7979, barnesandnoble.com. Join us for this special Storytime celebrating our favorite polite little bear in his red hat and Wellington boots. We will be reading a new book that is exclusive to Barnes & Noble and features a scrapbook of Paddington’s travels.

November 8, 2-4 pmSean Callahan Book Signing at Barnes & Noble, SouthPointe Pavilions, 2910 Pine Lake Road, 402-421-7979, barnesandnoble.com. Calling all Husker fans! Join us from 2:00 to 4:00 pm as we welcome Sean Callahan, author of 100 Things Nebraska Fans Should Know & Do Before They Die. This is the perfect gift for those devoted Husker fans on your holiday list!

November 8, 1:30–3:30 pmLincoln Music Teachers Assn. (LMTA), LMTA.info, Westbrook Music Building, UNL campus, 1:30-2:30, Dr. Paul Barnes: “Weight Just a Minute! And Other Thoughts On Piano Techniques”; 2:30-3:30, Masterclass: students of LMTA teachers

November 10-11 Elf, The Musical at Lied Center, 301 N 12th St., 402-472-4747, LiedCenter.org. Based on

one of Hollywood’s most beloved holiday hit movies, Elf is the hilarious tale of Buddy, a young orphan who is mistakenly transported back to the North Pole. Unaware that he is actually human, Buddy’s enormous size and poor toy-making abilities cause him to face the truth. Buddy embarks on a journey to New York City to find his father, discover his true identity, and help New York remember the true meaning of Christmas. This modern day Christmas classic is sure to make everyone embrace their inner Elf. Appropriate for ages 5 and up. This is a family friendly show.

November 11, 1-2:30 pmPint-Sized Professors, Giving Thanks at Strategic Air and Space Museum - 28210 West Park Highway, Ashland, register at 402-944-3100 ext. 208. How do you get a frozen turkey to fly? A catapult! We will learn about levers and simple machines through exciting activities. Launch a small gourd with a catapult! Together, we will read a book and have awesome hands on activities and crafts. Children: $5/museum members, $7/non-members, Parents: Free for museum members, $12/non-members. Program cost includes museum admission and all activities. Lasts 1 hour and includes a variety of themed activities. A typical program will include a story and two to three hands-on activities. All of our activities align to Nebraska Early Learning Guidelines for Ages 3-5.

November 12, 10 am - 12 pmSmock Tales at Lincoln Children’s Museum, lincolnchildrensmuseum.org. Part Storytime, Part Craft Activity, Entirely Enchanting! This program takes place in our Artist’s Studio every Wednesday where we combine storytelling and art in fun, creative, educational ways. Each week we feature a different art project based on a story that is read at 10 and 11 a.m.

November 13, 4-6 pmLincoln Kids’ Chess Club through Lincoln Chess Foundation at the Unitarian Church ofLincoln, 6300 A Street, 845-659-1427, lincolnscholasticchess@gmail.com. Cost is $1. The Lincoln Kids’ Chess Club meets every Thursday with lessons for beginning students through advanced students and there are coaches available for questions. There are other students to plaly against and boards are provided.

November 14, 11 amPeppa Pig and the Day at Snowy Mountain Storytime at Barnes & Noble, SouthPointe Pavilions, 2910 Pine Lake Road, 402-421-7979, barnesandnoble.com. Join us for this wintery story starring Peppa Pig. There’s so much to do on a snowy day! Sledding, ice-skating and, of course, skiing. Peppa wants to do them all. We will also be reading Aw, Nuts! by Rob McClurkan.

Fridays, November 14-December 12Grades K- 6, Fridays 4:15-5:45pm, Adults (13+), Fridays 6:30-8:00pm. November: Wheel Thrown Pottery-bowls, plates, cups at Art Planet, 402-610-2295; artplanetlincoln.com. $65/ month. The wheel thrown pottery class is a collaborative class where the first half is demonstration. During the second half of the hour long class, students will alternate and collaborate on one or more thrown pieces learning techniques such as centering, pulling, and trimming. Students can apply these techniques later if they choose to set up a time for individual studio sessions for an extra fee.

November 14, 7:00-8:30 pm Night Hike at Pioneers Park Nature Center, 3201 S. Coddington, 402.441.7895, parks.

lincoln,ne.gov/naturecenter. Who whooo’s out there? Enjoy the sights and sounds of the Nature Center on a moonlit walk. We will look and listen for owls and other animals of the night. Register by November 11. Location: Prairie Building | Fee: $7/person

November 14, 15 & 16, Fri. Noon-9:00 pm; Sat 9 am-9 pm; Sun 9 am-4 pm. Nebraska Horse Expo, Nebraska Horse Council, NebraskaHorseExpo.org, 402-523-6403. The 14th annual Nebraska Horse Expo invites you to celebrate the magnificence of the Horse. With a host of international caliber horsemen and women, top-notch entertainment and one-stop shopping at the Holiday and Horse Trade Show, the Expo offers something for all ages. Clinics, seminars and demonstrations, exciting competitions such as the Extreme Horseman Trail Challenge, Driving Derby and Battle of the Breeds. Kids can participate in the nightly Stick Horse Rodeo, enjoy the hoof-focused Scavenger Hunt, rub hoofs with Paint Horse Pete, compete in the “Mini Grand Prix” and have their photo taken with one of Santa’s helper ponies. Friday & Saturday evenings will be highlighted with High Jumping equestrian entertainment, dancing horses and thrilling performances.

Saturday, November 15, 10:30 amLincoln Music Teachers Assn. (LMTA), LMTA.info, Service Recital at Lancaster Manor, 10th & South, Gere Library, 2400 S. 56th

November 15, 11:00 am Thanksgiving Storytime at Barnes & Noble, SouthPointe Pavilions, 2910 Pine Lake Road, 402-421-7979, barnesandnoble.com. Join us today for Thanksgiving Storytime featuring The Great Thanksgiving Escape. The title is a hilarious, kid-friendly take on Thanksgiving - full of family, food and lots of fun!

November 15, 11:00 amLEGO Architecture Building Event at Barnes & Noble, SouthPointe Pavilions, 2910 Pine Lake Road, 402-421-7979, barnesandnoble.com. Calling builders of all ages! You love LEGO, and we do, too. Join us as we use pieces from the LEGO Architecture Studio to re-create recognizable buildings and structural works.

November 16 Sunday with a Scientist: Agate Fossil BedsUniversity of Nebraska State Museum, 307 Morrill Hall, 402-472-3779, museum.unl.edu/Explore the mystery of the great Agate bonebed which records the death of hundreds of prehistoric mammals and is one of the greatest fossil bonebeds in the world.

November 17, 6 pmLincoln Irish Dancers, http://lincolnirishdancers.org, Beginning Ceili. Start of a 5-week Introduction to Ceili (Irish Social Dancing). $45 includes Lincoln Irish Dancer’s membership. Classes held every Monday night at First Presbyterian, 840 S. 17th Street in the Great Hall.

November 18, 11:00 amLove Monster and the Perfect Present Storytime at Barnes & Noble, SouthPointe Pavilions, 2910 Pine Lake Road, 402-421-7979, barnesandnoble.com. This adorable follow up to Love Monster, carries a timeless message that something “doesn’t have to cost the earth to mean the world,” this is a lovely book to share around a holiday. Join us for Storytime and activities!

Page 32 • www.lincolnkidsinc.com

Lincoln Kids!November 21, 11:00 amJust Right for Two Storytime at Barnes & Noble, SouthPointe Pavilions, 2910 Pine Lake Road, 402-421-7979, barnesandnoble.com. Dog has everything he needs in his big blue suitcase. Or does he? Dog is happy with his suitcase and believes he has everything he needs, until one night when Mouse comes along. Dog discovers that his big blue suitcase is just right for two.

November 21, 7:00 pmTobyMac with Matt Maher Concert at Lincoln Berean Church, 6400 S 70th St, 402-483-6512. Tickets are $25 and $30.

November 22, 11:00 amElf on the Shelf Storytime and Adoption Event at Barnes & Noble, SouthPointe Pavilions, 2910 Pine Lake Road, 402-421-7979, barnesandnoble.com. Join us for The Elf on the Shelf: A Holiday Tradition Storytime and Elf Adoption Event. This holiday season, begin a new family tradition - this interactive holiday hide-and-seek with Santa’s elf is perfect for children and families of all ages.

November 27

November 29, 9:00 am – 12:00 pmHow to build a Give and Save Bank at Home Depot, 3300 N 27th Street, 402-325-6200. FREE hands-on workshops; designed for children ages 5– 2 are offered on the 1st Saturday at The Home Depot. Come learn how to build a pallet coaster. All kid get to keep their craft, receive a FREE certificate of achievement, a Workshop Apron, and a commemorative pin while supplies last. Register online at http://workshops.homedepot.com/workshops/kids-workshops.

November 29, 5:30 - 10:00 pmLincoln Contra Dance, butchnlucy.com/contradance.html, Lincoln Last Saturday Contra Dance. Come to the Last Saturday Contra Dance and dance to Rivertown String Band with Kate McBride calling from 6:00 to 8:30 and open band/open mic until 10pm. A good way to work off that Thanksgiving Dinner. $7/Adults, $5/students, 12 and under/free.

November 29, 6:30 pmSanta Is Coming to Storytime at Barnes & Noble, SouthPointe Pavilions, 2910 Pine Lake Road, 402-421-7979, barnesandnoble.com. A special Storytime featuring Santa himself! Santa will presiding over Storytime before he settles in at his Station here at SouthPointe Mall. Stop by to hear a story and have a treat before having your picture taken with him!

DecemberDecember 1, 9:00 am-5:30 pmNo School Day at Camp Sonshine, 13440 S. 25th St., Roca, 402-423-8746, campsonshinememories.org. Check your school calendar for applicable dates for the full-day camp programs. Rates are just $30 per camper for the day. Register online. Morning extended hours are available.Mondays, December 1-December 15, 7-8 pm December: Beaded Ornaments at Art Planet, 402-610-2295; artplanetlincoln.com. Decorate

your tree this year with ornaments, hand made by you! Two styles of ornaments will be presented. Your artistic creations will be PERFECT for gift giving! Grades 1st-8th (all ages), $45/month. Mother/Daughter pairs can register and attend class for the price of one!

December 2-16 December: SANTA’S WORKSHOP! at Art Planet, 402-610-2295; artplanetlincoln.com. $45. Grades K- 3rd (ages 5-8), Tuesdays 5:15-6:15pm, Grades 4th-6th (ages 9-12), Tuesdays 6:30-7:30pm. Students will create their own gifts to give to friends, family and loved ones. Be ready for a surprise! They will go home all wrapped up and ready to go on the last day of the session.

December 4 & 5, 10:00 am-8:00 pmLincoln Music Teachers Assn. (LMTA), LMTA.info, Students of LMTA members perform at “Holiday of Trees”, Heritage Women’s Club, Westminster Presbyterian Church, 2110 Sheridan December 4 & 11, January 8 & 22 Starry, Starry Night at University of Nebraska State Museum, 307 Morrill Hall, 402-472-3779, museum.unl.edu/. We will tilt our heads back and examine the winter sky. Kids will have fun discovering basic astronomy while visiting the Museum’s Ralph Mueller Planetarium and the UNL Student Observatory.

December 5, 5- 8 pmEnjoy Santa, Snowball fights and Seasonal Delights at Lincoln Children’s Museum’s Holiday Spectacular at Lincoln Children’s Museum, lincolnchildrensmuseum.org. Event Highlights include party with your favorite friends from the North Pole, meet Santa & Mrs. Claus, visit Santa’s Workshop in the Discovery Gallery, create winter art projects and holiday crafts, live music & dance performances, regular admission or Museum membership applies. Santa arrives at 5:30 pm until 7:45 pm. Santa will return to the Museum from 1-3 pm on Dec. 6, 13 and 20. Guests are welcome to use their own cameras and/or phones to capture the moment. Costumed characters like Frosty the Snowman, the Grinch and members of “The Nutcracker” ballet cast will be in attendance.

December 6, 10 am - 2 pmSanta Goes to Space at Strategic Air and Space Museum - 28210 West Park Highway, Ashland, register at 402-944-3100 ext. 208. An event that combines Space Day and Holiday Air Affair with Santa, Stormtroopers, guest speaker, and space-related family activities.

December 6, 7 and 13, 14, 11 am-3 pmNorth Pole Express at the Lincoln Children’s Zoo, lincolnzoo.org. Board the Zoo’s train for a journey to the North Pole. Once inside the Zoo, your winter wonderland experience includes hot chocolate, candy canes and a visit to Santa’s workshop to see the big man himself. Tickets include admission, a train ride and all activities. Tickets on sale November 5.

December 6 & 13Homegrown Christmas! at Art Planet, 402-610-2295; artplanetlincoln.com. Kids can string popcorn to make tree garland ($5 per string) while older kids and adults can learn how to make their own oil based candle with evergreen sprigs and mason jars ($10 per jar).Come cozy up with us in the studio while we try our hands at making traditional memories!

Dec. 6, 7, 11, 13, 14, 18, 20 & 21, Saturdays, Dec. 6, 13 & 20 – 10 & 11 am and 1, 2 & 3 pm, Sundays, Dec. 7, 14 & 21 – 1, 2 & 3 pm, Thursday, Dec. 11 & 18 – 10 am and 5 & 6 pm

Candy House Funshop at Lincoln Children’s Museum, lincolnchildrensmuseum.org. Funshop Highlights include Lincoln Children’s Museum supplies the 15” house frame, frosting & a variety of candies and decoration toppings. Plus, we’ll even spare you the clean up! Cost: $25 (per house) for Museum Members; $30 for Non-members (includes 2 free admissions). Take-home kits available for $25. Call 402-477-4000 to reserve a take-home kit.

December 6, All DayLincoln Music Teachers Assn. (LMTA), LMTA.info, Student Performance/Fundraiser at Barnes & Noble Booksellers, 52 & O St.B&N will donate a portion of their sales to the LMTA Music Outreach Program for those who mention LMTA

December 6, January 3, February 7, 7-10 pm Contra Dance of Lincoln, butchnlucy.com/contradance.html, 1st Saturday Contra Dance, Contra dance to live music and a caller. Sort of like square dancing in lines. Lesson from 7:00 to 7:30, Dance from 7:30 to 10:00. Every dance is walked through and called. 1650 Memorial Drive. $8/Adults, $5/students, 12 and under/free.

December 9, 1-2:30 pmPint-Sized Professors, Mystery Box at Strategic Air and Space Museum - 28210 West Park Highway, Ashland, register at 402-944-3100 ext. 208. What’s in The Mystery Box? The mystery box has openings at both ends covered by soft vinyl, so children can feel, match and compare the objects inside by touch alone. Using their sense of touch to explore is a fun way to increase tactile awareness. For one hour, we will play a memory game and read a book together to discover how we use our memory and how our sense of touch can help us remember things. Children: $5/museum members, $7/non-members, Parents: Free for museum members, $12/non-members. Program cost includes museum admission and all activities. All of our activities align to Nebraska Early Learning Guidelines for Ages 3-5. December 13, 10:00 am-5:00 pm Lincoln Music Teachers Assn. (LMTA), LMTA.info, Student Holiday Performances at Westfield Gateway Mall

December 13, 10 - 11 amScience Lab at Lowe’s, 6101 Apple Way, 402-420-3660, http://lowesbuildandgrow.com. Build and Grow Clinics are free to the public and occur select Saturdays at 10am. Below is a list of upcoming clinics. Registration opens a few weeks before each clinic’s date.

December 13, 2 & 7 pm, December 14, 2 pmNutcracker at Lied Center for Performing Arts, 301 North 12th Street

December 18 Christmas with the King’s Singers at Lied Center, 301 N 12th St., 402-472-4747, LiedCenter.org. Instantly recognizable for their impeccable vocal blend and incisive timing, celebrate the holiday season with England’s most famous a cappella ensemble! Timeless carols, Christmas classics and new arrangements highlight this spectacular evening of holiday music.

December 21, 3:00-4:00 pmWinter Walk at Pioneers Park Nature Center, 3201 S. Coddington, 402.441.7895, parks.lincoln,ne.gov/naturecenter. Celebrate the Winter Solstice with a winter hike. Look for animal tracks, signs and do some bird watching. After the hike we’ll enjoy some hot chocolate in the auditorium and watch the sun go down.

Location: Prairie Building | Fee: $5/personDecember 22, 9:00 am - noonDrop N’ Shop at Pioneers Park Nature Center, 3201 S. Coddington, 402.441.7895, parks.lincoln,ne.gov/naturecenter. Got some last minute Christmas shopping to finish or holiday preparations? Leave your kids at the Nature Center for a morning of fun activities. Children ages 4 and up are welcome from 9:00 am – noon. We’ll have crafts, games, snack and outdoor exploration. Spaces are limited so reserve your spot by Dec 19. Location: Prairie Building | Fee: $20/ child $15/additional sibling

December 22, 24, 26, 29, 31, January 2 – check website for times. MyGym Hosts Fall/Winter Camps. This winter your children can participate in energizing fitness games, noncompetitive gymnastics, arts and crafts, music and so much more. Each camp program is uniquely designed to keep your children moving and active, as we emphasize physical development and personal success. Themes and programs change daily. There are Thanksgiving camps and Winter camps. Visit our website: mygym.com/lincoln

December 23, 10:00 – 11:00 am One Splendid Tree by Marilyn Helmer at Nebraska History Museum, 131 Centennial Mall North. Join us for a story, exhibit tour, and activities. December 24, 3:30 & 5 pmChristmas Eve Services at Horizons Community Church, http://HorizonsChurch.orgYour family will love it here! Join us every Sunday at 9:30 & 11:00 - DiscvoeryZone for the kids during each adult service.

December 25

December 29, 10:00 - 11:00 amPlayful Puppets: Animals in Winter at Pioneers Park Nature Center, 3201 S. Coddington, 402.441.7895, parks.lincoln,ne.gov/naturecenter. Enjoy a puppet show and learn what the animals of the Nature Center are up to in the winter. Are they sleeping? Where do they find their food? There will also be fun interactive activities following the show. Register by Dec 26. Location: Prairie Building | Fee: $3/person

December 29 - January 1New Year’s Live at YMCA Camp Kitaki, 402-434-9222, ymcalincoln.org/kitaki. Ages 7-14 • $175. For 4 days and 3 nights, campers will enjoy activities such as a dance party, winter gaga, and creating their own country to compete in the Wacky Winter Olympics. This is the longest campout we do during the non-Summer months and is a great way to meet new friends and try out Camp’s programs. From the opening ceremonies to the closing party, this is a campout not to miss!

December 30, 10:00 - 11:00 amA Boy Becomes a Man at Wounded Knee by Ted Wood at Nebraska History Museum, 131 Centennial Mall North. Join us for a story, exhibit tour, and activities.

December 31, 6:30-8:30 pmMake Believe Midnight at Lincoln Children’s Museum, lincolnchildrensmuseum.org. Event

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Lincoln Kids!Highlights include Bubblewrap Stomp, B107.3 Dance Zone, Party favors and hats, Special program featuring Father Time & Baby New Year, Red Carpet photo backdrop, Countdown to Make Believe Midnight, complete with ball drop and balloon shower of more than 2,000 ballons, Tickets required to attend: $8 for Members, $13 for Non-members; free admission for children younger than 1 year. Tickets must be purchased in advance, either online at www.LincolnChildrensMuseum.org or in person at the Museum. They are available for sale beginning Nov. 21.

December 31New Year’s Eve Overnighter at Camp Sonshine, 13440 S. 25th St., Roca, 402-423-8746, campsonshinememories.org.

January 2015

Friday, January 2, 10:00-11:00 amMusic and Story Time at Pioneers Park Nature Center, 3201 S. Coddington, 402.441.7895, parks.lincoln,ne.gov/naturecenter. Make some music, listen to stories and get your sillies out! Register by Dec 30. Location: Prairie Building | Fee: $3/person

January 5, 6 pmLincoln Irish Dancers, http://lincolnirishdancers.org, Beginning Ceili. Start of a 5-week Introduction to Ceili (Irish Social Dancing). $45 includes Lincoln Irish Dancer’s membership. Classes held every Monday night at First Presbyterian, 840 S. 17th Street in the Great Hall.

Mondays, January 5-January 26January Bead It! Class: To be announced at Art Planet, 402-610-2295; artplanetlincoln.com. Grades 1st-8th (all ages), Mondays 7:00-8:00pm, $45/month. Join our beading classes for a truly charming time! Acquire simple beading techniques while learning how to design with beads, yarn and wires. Enchanting! Mother/Daughter pairs can register and attend class for the price of one!

Tuesdays, January 6-27January: Printmaking 1 at ArtPlanet, 402-610-2295; artplanetlincoln.com. Grades K- 3rd, Tuesdays 5:15-6:15pm, $55/month, Grades 4th-6th, Tuesdays 6:30-7:30pm, $55/month

Fridays, January 9-30 January Pottery Class for Kids: Making a Treasure Box at Art Planet, 402-610-2295; artplanetlincoln.com. $65. Grades K-6, Fridays 4:15-5:45 pm, Adults (13+), Fridays 6:30-8:00 pm. Ahoy Matey! You don’t have to go very far to find your treasure in THIS class! Students will design and build their own personal treasure box using slab construction. They will learn how to finish it off using antiquing methods for an authentic look.

January 10, 10am-3pm Theatre Arts For Kids Day at Theatre Arts for Kids, www.ta4k.com (608) 322-4549, located at Christ Lutheran Church (4325 Sumner St). Broadway Sweets, Treats & Tweets. One-day musical theatre workshop for ages 3-15. Only $25 when you mention the ad on page 20!

January 13–April 28, 5:30pm-6:30pmMusical Theatre Troupe! at www.ta4k.com

(608) 322-4549, located at Christ Lutheran Church (4325 Sumner St). Ages 7-15. The total theatre experience. Free

January 13, 7:30 pmLincoln Music Teachers Assn. (LMTA), LMTA.info, Lied Piano Series, Jonathan Biss, Piano at Lied Center for Performing Arts, UNL Campus, 301 N. 12th, http://liedcenter.org

January 14, 11:30am–1:00pmLincoln Music Teachers Assn. (LMTA), LMTA.info, LMTA General Membership Meeting at Harris Academy of the Arts Tour, 2935 Pine Lake Road. Ste. C

January 17Indoor Air Show at Strategic Air and Space Museum - 28210 West Park Highway, Ashland, register at 402-944-3100 ext. 208. Air Show event in the Strategic Air & Space Museum’s Restoration Hangar. The event offers flight demonstrations by modelers flying airplanes throughout the day.January 17Lincoln Music Teachers Assn. (LMTA), LMTA.info, Chamber Music Festival Recital at Grace Lutheran Church, 2225 Washington Street. See website for time.

January 17th–February 28th, 9am-10am.Rising Stars, Giraffes Can’t Dance at at www.ta4k.com (608) 322-4549, located at Christ Lutheran Church (4325 Sumner St). Perfect for the littlest performers! Ages 3-6. $120

January 21 Jim Henson’s Dinosaur Train Live! Buddy’s Big Adventure at Lied Center, 301 N 12th St., 402-472-4747, LiedCenter.org. Based on the hit PBS kids show, your little monsters will want to join Buddy, Tiny, Don and all of their friends and family in this fun-filled journey back to an age when dinosaurs roamed the earth . . . and rode in trains! With magical special effects, a full sized replica Train and unique hybrid-puppeteered costume characters, this adventure is truly larger than life. Come early for FamFest! Free food and fun activities for the family!

January 17, 10 am-1 pmSafe Kids, Smart Kids at Lincoln Children’s Museum, lincolnchildrensmuseum.orgFrom car seat safety and allergies to playground safety and sports injuries, Safe Kids, Smart Kids is an enlightening event that reinforces the message that knowledge is power! Learn tips straight from the experts on a variety of topics, like food allergies, medication handling, fire p revention a nd a wareness, b ike safety, stranger danger education, sports injuries and home security. This event isn’t just for kids! It is a great introduction for new parents—and a useful refresher course for a seasoned parent—about child and family safety.

January 31, 10 am-1 pmPassport to Play at Lincoln Children’s Museum, lincolnchildrensmuseum.orgExperience new sites, sounds and people, without the expense of traveling abroad! All you have to do is attend “Passport to Play” at Lincoln Children’s Museum! This is the second annual event that introduces children to various cultures from around the world and celebrates people of diverse backgrounds who live right here in our community. At Passport to Play, children will have the opportunity to experience each culture in action and learn what makes each one unique.

January 31, February 28, 5:30 - 11:00 pmLincoln Contra Dance and Doeden’s Country Dance, butchnlucy.com/contradance.htmlLast Saturday Contra Dance and Country Dance, Contra Dance lesson from 5:30 to 6:00,

Contra Dance to live music from 6:00 to 8:00 pm and Country Dance to DJ Al Doeden and take a lesson or two from Roberta Doeden from 8:00 to 11:00. Auld Recreation Center, 1650 Memorial Drive. $7/adults, $5/students and 12 and under/free.

LUX Center for the Arts 2601 N. 48th St.; 402-466-8692; luxcenter.org

Holiday WorkshopsChoose a workshop that fits your family!

Tuition: $16 for 1 adult and 1 child, $8 for each additional person (Register up to 4 family members for free if you purchase a Family Membership) Fused Glass Snowflakes Sunday, Dec. 7, 1 – 2:30 pm (FFAM-13) Saturday, Dec. 13, 10 -11:30 am (FFAM-15) Saturday, Dec. 13, 12 – 1:30 pm (FFAM-16) Saturday, Dec. 13, 2 – 3:30 pm (FFAM-17)

Paint glass and wood tree ornaments Saturday, Dec. 6, 10 – 11:30 am (FFAM-11)Sunday, Dec. 7, 1 – 2:30 pm (FFAM-12)Ceramic Dreidal Making WorkshopSunday, Dec. 7, 2 – 3:30 pm (FFAM-14) Saturday, Dec. 6, 10 – 11:30 am (FFAM-09)

Ceramic Menorah Making WorkshopSaturday, Dec. 6, 2 – 3:30 pm (FFAM-10)

Paper Gift Box Workshop Saturday, Dec. 13, 3- 4:30 pm (FFAM-18)

Events – FREE and open to the public

Sunday, December 14, 1-4 pm WinterfestWinterfest is a free, family-centered event that anyone can attend. We open our doors to the community and host winter themed art-making activities for all ages. Everyone is welcome to join us and celebrate the season by making holiday cards, ornaments, and other winter inspired works. You can also enjoy cookies and cider while browsing our galleries and gift shop to find the perfect gifts for your loved ones.

Private LessonsWant your child to take back-to-back classes at the LUX without picking them up in between? With our new schedule there is exactly 1 hour between classes so your child can take a private lesson between classes! Only $25 for one hour or $100 for a 4 week session of 1 hour lessons. Students may bring a lunch during their lesson.

January 2015Ages 5 -9

Exciting Easel Expressions (WPNT-01)January 10, 17, 24, 31 at 10 – 11:30 amStudents will learn to paint using an easel. Still life, landscape, and abstract expressionism will be explored. Instructor: Brenna AlonsoTuition: $52 LUX members ($65 non-members)

Surreal Ceramics (WYCER-02)January 10, 17, 24, 31 at 12:30 -2 pmFrom melting clocks to exquisite animals, your child will have a blast creating surreal clay sculptures! Instructor: Michel Larsen. Tuition: $60 LUX members ($75 non-members)

Draw Paws & Claws (WYPNT-02)January 10, 17, 24, 31 at 3 – 4:30 pmDoes your child love to draw? This class will break down drawing critters and creatures into a simple step-by-step process to learn how to create more complex and complete drawings. Tuition: $52 LUX members ($65 non-members)

Mud Monsters (WYCER-04)January 8, 15, 22, 29 at 6pm-7:30pmLet your child’s imagination run wild in this

ceramics class where they will create monsters, masks, and stories with clay! Instructor: Michael Larsen. Tuition: $60 LUX members ($75 non-members

Art Discovery Days (Ages 5-9 & Ages 10-13)Monday, January 19 (WYCAM-01), Monday, February 16 (WYCAM-02), Friday, April 24 (WYCAM-04) (Classes coincides with LPS break) Time: 8:30am-5:00pm. Students will enjoy their day off by getting creative! Half of the day will be spent creating in clay, the other half will be working in mixed-media. Students will need to bring a cold lunch. Instructor: Artist-in-Residence. Tuition: Individual Session: $80 LUX members ($100 non-members) All Sessions (SAVE $20/day): $180 LUX members ($240 non-member)

Ages 10 - 13

Tweens on Wheels (WYCER-01) January 10, 17, 24, 31 at 10 – 11:30 amLearn basic throwing techniques to gain an understanding of the exciting possibilities of clay. Returning students can sharpen their skills and try new things! Instructor: Michel Larsen. Tuition: $60 LUX members ($75 non-members)

Magnificent Metals (WYMET-01)January 10, 17, 24, 31 at 12:30 -2 pmLearn to make art and jewelry with metal! A variety of techniques will be explored including sawing, hammering, riveting and stamping. Instructor: Luke Huling. Tuition: $52 LUX members ($65 non-members)

Clay Couture (WYCER-03)January 10, 17, 24, 31 at 3 – 4:30 pmStudents will design and style clay jewelry, purses, shoes, and learn how to use real fabric to create texture. Instructor: Luke Huling. Tuition: $60 LUX members ($75 non-members)

Art Discovery Days (Ages 5-9 & Ages 10-13)Monday, January 19 (WYCAM-01), Monday, February 16 (WYCAM-02), Friday, April 24 (WYCAM-04) (Classes coincides with LPS break) Time: 8:30am-5:00pm. Students will enjoy their day off by getting creative! Half of the day will be spent creating in clay, the other half will be working in mixed-media. Students will need to bring a cold lunch. Instructor: Artist-in-Residence. Tuition: Individual Session: $80 LUX members ($100 non-members) All Sessions (SAVE $20/day): $180 LUX members ($240 non-member)

High School & Adult

Coffee & Creativity (WMIX-01)January 10, 17, 24, 31 at 10 – 11:30 amSpend your Saturday morning at the LUX! This class is a great introductory course with a variety of mediums including fused glass, painting, and printmaking. All materials and a fresh pot of coffee are provided! Tuition: $68 LUX members ($85 non-members)

LUXurious Jewelry (WMET-01)January 8, 15, 22, 29 at 6pm-7:30pmHave fun exploring ways to make your own jewelry! This class is perfect for anyone interested in learning new skills and taking home new works to wear. Instructor: Luke Huling. $68 LUX members ($85 non-members)

ONGOING EVENTS

Saturday Nights, 7:00 – 10:00 pm Hyde Memorial Observatory, South side of Holmes Lake, hydeobservatory.info/. Free. Featuring views of the night skies through our 3 Telescopes! And Astronomy Presentations every Saturday Night!

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Lincoln Kids!

Calendar listings are FREEEEEE! LINCOLNKIDSINC.com

Support GroupsAnswers4FamiliesInformation, opportunities for dialogue, education, and support for families, children and adults with dis-abilities, individuals over 60, and providers, including state and national resources, support group schedules, organizations, and tips for coping with a variety of is-sues. Free database (nrrs.ne.gov) of Nebraska service providers. Helpline, 800-746-8420; Answers4Fami-lies.org

Autism Family NetworkA support organization alternating between fun and informative events. Cathy Martinez, Board President at afnlincoln@aol.com

Cancer Support GroupsVarious cancer support groups and services for pa-tients, family members, friends. To find out more, contact the American Cancer Society, 5733 S 34th Street, Ste 500, 402-423-4888

Charlie Brown’s Kids Grief Support Group1st & 3rd Thursdays, 6-8 p.m. Grief support group for children ages 3-18 who have experienced the death of a parent. Caregivers meet at same time. Youth share their feelings through books, discussions, art, writing and remembrance projects. Sheridan Lutheran, 6955 Old Cheney, 483-1845, Bev Prucha, B3549@aol.com

Fibromyalgia GroupNo meetings. See info at www.tjkeller.net/lincolnsup-port/

Good Neighbor Mothers Offering Moms SupportMom’s support group 1st & 3rd Thursdays at Good Neighbor Community Center, 2617 Y Street, 402-477-4173. Angel, 423-6117

Heartland Home SchoolersFor home schooling families in the Lincoln area, regardless of religious beliefs. Providing encourage-ment for moms; activities for home schooled students, including skating parties, spelling bee, science fair and more. homeschool-life.com/ne/heartland/

Help for Attention Deficit DisordersFirst Tuesday, 6-7:30pm. Parenting network. Cre-ative/challenging activities for children, support/education for parents. Family meal provided. 5903 Walker Ave., 471-3700

La Leche League of Lincoln La Leche League (LLLofNE.org) offers a monthly Series Meeting, a weekly Breastfeeding Café, and a monthly meeting for mothers of toddlers. Free of charge. Thursdays South Group meets 3rd Thursdays 6:30PM, Aldersgate United Methodist Church, 8320 S. St.; 450-3240; roberts1715@gmail.com; Friday Breastfeeing Cafe, 10:30AM at Eiseley Branch Li-brary, 1530 Superior St., 402-540-8568, brooke@thousandhills.org; Toddler Group, 10AM, Warren United Methodist Church, 1205 N. 45th St., Abi, 402-465-8065, webhenke@windstream.net

Lincoln Area Families with MultiplesFor families welcoming multiples into their lives, and the joys and challenges that come with them. Find support at 402-434-6533; coordinator.lafm@gmail.com; lincolnmultiples.org; LAFM, P.O. Box 5911, Lincoln, 68505-5911

M.O.M.S. (Meeting Other Mothers)Grace Lutheran Church, 2225 Washington, Tuesdays, 9:30-11AM, conversation, speakers, crafts, snacks, service projects & various topics; also holiday par-ties & field trips. Daycare available: $3/1 child and $1 each additional. Melissa Nickolaus, 464-6921

MOMS (Moms Offering Moms Support) Club of LincolnWe are the Lincoln chapter of the International MOMS Club®, a non-profit organization specifical-ly for at-home moms. Each month we have several different events for our members- breakfasts, book clubs, play groups, mom’s night out to name just a few! Our goal is to support each other through friend-ship, group activities, and service projects in the Lin-coln area. http://momsclublincoln.weebly.com

Montessori After SixFor parents of children 5-9 years, Lincoln Montessori School, 489-8110

MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers)1st, 3rd Wednesdays, Southwood Lutheran Church, 9300 S. 40th St. (south of 40th & Yankee Hill Rd.) 9-11:15AM. Speakers, crafts, book club, playgroups, babysitting co-op, and activities for children. Daycare available. southwoodlutheran.org/get-connected/chil-dren-and-families/mopsmothers-of-pre-schoolers or Jennifer: 402-328-9247; jennifermchargue@hotmail.com

1st & 3rd Thursdays, 9-11 a.m., New Covenant Church, 6000 S. 84th St. Non-denominational pro-gram to encourage, equip, and help women become the best moms they can be. Build friendships; have fun with other moms. Women with children birth through kindergarten are invited to join. Childcare provided. All children are cared for in a nurturing and fun atmosphere. They will experience love in a preschool like setting. $6/meeting. Becky, 402-484- 5033; mopsnewcov.blogspot.com

MOTHER MEWeekly mommies group to support mothers of infants through pre-schoolers. A place for moms to come and talk, laugh and/or cry if they need to. We meet in the evening for moms who are unable to attend daytime meetings. We have a love of fun, and love for new moms to join us at any time! Tuesdays from 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm. Inside Trinity Chiropractic in the Inspire ME meeting space at 3120 O Street. Contact julia@circleme.me for more information

Mourning Hope Grief Support402-488-8989, email hope@mourninghope.org or visit mourninghope.org

Mom Support GroupWednesdays, Bryan Health Family Birthplace at In-stitute for Women’s & Children’s Health. Facilitated by lactation consultants. 1:30-2:30PM. 402-481-7103

Open Hearts Adoption Support GroupFellowship for families who have adopted children; family centered events (such as Christmas Party, Eth-nic Party, Picnic, Mother’s Tea, Harvest Party). Sup-ported through dues and gifts. All families welcome, especially if you want to find out more about adop-tion! Dates and locations vary, contact Sherie Quirie, 465-5841 or at lincoln_openheartsadoption.blogspot.com

Parents of Children with Feeding DifficultiesMonthly, lower level Saint Elizabeth Regional Medical Center, 575 S. 70th St. Bringing parents of children with feeding difficulties together to share experiences, helpful hints, recipes, and information on feeding programs/clinics in the surrounding area. Visit bigtent.com/groups/feedingsouls; Facebook at Feeding Souls of the Midwest; JenniferMcHargue@hotmail.com; Jennifer 328-9247

Clubs & OrganizationsThe Prairie Astronomy ClubLast Tuesday of the month, open to public, 7:30PM. Hyde Memorial Observatory, south side of Holmes Lake. prairieastronomyclub.org

Indigo Bridge Books701 P St., Ste. 102; 402-477-7770, Creamery Bldg.

in Haymarket; indigobridgebooks.com

Mondays & Tuesdays from 10-11am. Story time session includes music, games, crafts.

Monday, Wednesday, Fridays, 11:30am-1pm. Serving soup and bread. Food is available pay-as-you-can basis rather than with a set menu price so everyone can afford to sit at The Table.

Second Fridays, 10-11amIndiZOO features animal-related stories, crafts and the animals! Kids meet a local animal in a safe, hands-on environment with a trained animal expert to teach them about eating, sleeping and social habits.

Saturdays, 10-11amBilingual English-Spanish Story TimeBring the kiddos down for a story in English with Spanish vocabulary, a game of Spanish BINGO and a related craft. While story time is intended for ages 4-8, most children find one of the activities fun and educational.

Lincoln City Librarieslincolnlibraries.org

Anderson…3635 Touzalin…441-8540Bennett Martin…136 S. 14th…441-8566Bethany…1810 N. Cotner…4441-8550

Eiseley…1530 Superior…441-4250Gere…2400 S. 56th…441-8560

South…2675 South St.…441-8570Walt…6701 S. 14th…441-4460

Williams…5000 Mike Scholl St.…441-8580

Baby Storytimes at WaltThursdays, 10:30-11am, interactive parentchild time designed to promote early literacy, language development and a love of books for birth to 18 months.

Preschool StorytimeFor ages 3-5. Call for information.

Toddler TimeParents and children ages 18-36 months: enjoy reading aloud, singing, playing, and dancing together! Call for times and locations at Anderson, Eiseley, Gere, or Walt.

Storytimes for FamiliesFamily Storytimes are intended for parents and their preschool to elementary-age children and include crafts. Call for times and locations at Gere, South, or Walt.

All Ages Storytimes for Families at WaltEvery Saturday from 10:30-11:30am. Includes crafts and other activities.

ArtPlanet402-610-2295; artplanetlincoln.com

Two Saturdays per month Art Cafe at Art Planet, 2:00-8:00pmCreate to your art’s content! Select your project a la cARTe from the menu when you arrive. Cost varies.

Wednesday mornings at 10-10:45am Art Planet’s Preschool Fine Arts Play Group is a time for you and your preschooler (ages 2-5) to experience wonderful hands-on messy art with a variety of mediums and materials. Great for sensory, attention span and social skill development - plus LOTS of FUN! This adult/child class is well suited for parents, grandparents and caregivers too! Come dressed for a mess! No classes during winter break, December 24 and 31.

Teen Open StudioThursdays, 6:30-7:30pm, $55Session 4: November 20-December 18 Session 5: January 8-January 29th, 2015Open studio is for teens ages 13+ who want to come to Art Planet to explore their own ideas ina loosely structured but supportive environment. An Art Planet teacher will be there to guide ideas with individual attention and access to suitable materials.

MilkWorks5930 S. 58th, Ste W; 402-423-6402; Register and times at milkworks.org

All About Breastfeeding For expectant moms and dads. Learn breastfeeding basics, as well as the most common challenges that mothers face when breastfeeding, and how to get support. Fee is $25. Includes our Return to Work class.

Return to Work For new mothers returning to work or school outside the home while breastfeeding. Learn the “ins and outs” of pumping, storing milk, federal regulations and working with your day care provider. This class is included in the fee for our All About Breastfeeding class. You may attend while pregnant, or after baby is born. (Fee is $10 if not signed up for AAB class.)Introducing Solids & Making Your Own Baby Food. Perfect for parents of babies who are 3 to 9 months old. This class covers tips on readiness signs, safety awareness, introducing new foods and making your own baby food (save money and go organic if you want to!). Fee is $10.

Mom Talk Bring baby and join other breastfeeding mothers for companionship and to share breastfeeding information. FREE. No registration required.

Twin TalkFree Support for moms of multiples! If you are expecting twins, or breastfeeding multiples, join other moms for learning and support. No registration. Older siblings welcome.

Baby Weigh Station 7 days a week - Drop in and weigh your baby at MilkWorks during open hours. We will teach you how to use our baby scale and answer basic questions you have about weight gain. We are a well-child facility, so no need to worry about sick children in the waiting room! FREE.

Weigh & Stay at LMEP, 46th & Valley Road, Rm 230. - Drop in to weigh your baby, visit with a Lactation Consultant and ask questions about your baby’s latch or weight gain. There is no fee for this service. All moms welcome.

First-Plymouth, UCC2000 D Street; 402-476-7550; firstplymouth.org

1st WednesdaysPreschool Mom’s Night Out, 6:30-8pm Speakers, arts, crafts, parenting skills. RSVP deb@firstplymouth.org for child care. No cost.

2nd ThursdaysPet Grief Group in Resource Room. An interfaith support group for anyone mourning a recent passing of an animal companion.

3rd FridaysPreschool Family Fun, 6-8:30 p.m. various locations. Seasonal themes and family fun for families with infants-preschoolers.

Lincoln Berean Church6400 S. 70th St.; 430-4834; lincolnberean.org

FridaysCelebrate Recovery, biblically based 12-step recovery program for overcoming addictive, compulsive and dysfunctional behaviors. Free childcare/kid activities: infants-8th grade. 6:50PM, Praise & Worship. 8PM, Open Share small groups. 9PM, “Crosstalk” Fellowship and snacks in CoffeeHouse. 402-483-6512

Saint Elizabeth Regional Med CenterRegister online at www.saintelizabethonline.com for events, programs and classes or call

402-219-7000.

Various childbirth and parenting programs and classes are offered. Call for information.

Out-of-Town Events

Sunday, November 9, 2:30 pm David Seay, Master Artist with the Nebraska Arts Council, will be presenting a Harmonica Workshop/Concert in the Old Avoca, Nebraska Schoolhouse. Each paid admission includes a free harmonica for those 6 years old or older. The workshop will include an introduction to the 10 hole diatonic harmonica in the key of C Major. Admission is $10/adults, $5/students and senior citizens, and $1/children. Seating is limited. Call 402-275-3221, or e-mail them at debby@greenblattandseay.com, greenblattandseay.com

Page 26 • www.lincolnkidsinc.com

Lincoln Kids!

Children’s Lessons Directory

Name Instruction Program Location(s) & phone

Prices & Specials subject to change without notice.

Capital City GymnasticsGymnastics classes for boys & girls ages 2 through 18. We promote an “I can do” attitude, building not only overall physical skills, but also “life skills”.

5030 N. 57th • 402-464-9692www.capitalcitygymnastics.net

Gymnastics

My Gym Your child will have fun while building confidence and self esteem in our beginning gym-nastics and sports skills classes. Games, relays, dances & rides. Age appropriate classes.

2755 Jamie Lane, Suite 4 (near S 27th & Yankee Hill Road)

402-802-9982Gymnastics &Sports Skills

Alice BowenPrivate lessons include theory classes with ensembles and

performance opportunities. Group lessons available for beginners. Ages 4–Adult. References Available. Call for info. or an interview.

2501 S. 20th St. • 402-435-0386Piano

LUX Center for the ArtsHigh quality art classes and lessons for youth and adults

in a variety of art media and techniques all year long. Small class sizes for one-on-one learning.

2601 N. 48th Street • 402-466-8692www.luxcenter.org

Art Classes

Children’s Music Academy Harris Academy of the Arts

FREE Preview Class! Benefiting thousands nationwide, Children’s Music Academy students partner with parents in a unique, action-packed classroom setting. Experienced, university-trained music educators provide reputable, quality instruction.

2935 Pine Lake Rd (across from So. Pointe Mall) 402-423-7121

www.harrisacademyofthearts.com

Early Childhood Piano

Harris Academy of the ArtsPRIVATE and GROUP music instruction: Piano, Vocal, Guitar, Strings, Woodwinds,

Brass. Percussion,Theatre, and Kindermusik, Children’s Music Academy, Multiple, university-trained educators provide

reputable, convenient scheduling for the entire family!

2935 Pine Lake Rd (across from So. Pointe Mall) 402-423-7121

www.harrisacademyofthearts.comMusic Lessons

8200 Cody Dr., Suite L (one block north of 14th & Yankee Hill Rd.) 402-420-0579 www.motionsdance.net

DanceMotions Dance Academy, LLC Ballet, Pointe, Jazz, Tap, Lyrical and Hip-Hop. Studio directed by Melissa Prettyman Meranda, B.A. in dance from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Come and experience your child’s passion for dance!

Lincoln Music Teachers Assn.Find a Music Teacher

Access www.LMTA.info for a Teacher Directory.Scholarships available for those who qualify!

www.LMTA.infoMusic Lessons

5955 S. 56th St. Ste. #4402-477-5111 learningrx.com/lincoln

Learning & ReadingLearningRxCognitive skills, math & reading programs for students struggling in school

with attention, comprehension, memory or reading. Personal 1-on-1 training. 3-6 month programs. At least a 2-year improvement guaranteed!

TNT Handwriting Helping beginning and struggling writers learn proper print or cursive letter formation and good writing skills. We are dedicated to helping your child become a successful writer.

TNTHandwriting.com

402-421-3538Tutoring

Youth Actors’ Academy of Lincoln

Performing Arts

Youth Actors’ Academy of Lincoln (YAAL), is a non-profit organization which provides beginning to advanced

performing arts classes and performances. Summer Camps, too!402-450-9823

web: www.yaal.org

Blue Raven Music StudiosGuitar, Bass, Piano, Dobro, Lap Steel, Mandolin, Banjo, Ukulele and Voice instruction for all ages. Fun, positive learning environment. Reduced rate

guitar classes for kids ages 5–9. www.blueravenmusic.com

3835 S. 48th St. (across from Union College)402-486-0599

Guitar, Piano and more!

Tiger Rock AcademyLife skills and personal development taught by Internationally Certified Instructors. Lessons available for ages 4 and up. Early Cubs for ages 3 and early 4 available! Call now for our starter course specials.

8444 Executive Woods Dr. 5900 S 85th St Suite 100 Also in Firth

TaeKwonDo 402-483-1011

400 N. 48th Street • Suite C01 402-477-5900 • dance4uda.com

DanceTumbling &

Musical TheatreUniversal Dance Academy

Ballet, Pointe, Tap, Jazz, Lyrical, Repertory, Hip Hop, Tumbling, Award Winning Competitive Company, plus Musical Theatre! Creative Movement for 3-4 year olds, Wee Go

Together for 2-3 year olds & their mom/dad/or special friend.

Discoveries Music Studio(Simply Music®programs)

Ages 7-Adult. FREE preview lesson. Students play amazing repertoire before reading notes Try a 4-week sampler of contemporary, blues, classical, gospel songs. Small, per-sonalized classes. Experienced teacher licensed by internationally acclaimed program.

Linda Trone 402-432-6583discoveriesmusic@gmail.comPiano

402-499-0400www.encore-studio.comPiano/KeyboardEncore Studio Piano lessons and piano/keyboard classes for all levels.

Beginners all ages. Studio is located near 70th & O Street.

Violin & ViolaAtkinson Music StudioPrivate, groups, recitals and public performance opportunities. Beginners ages 3-adult. All levels! Over 25 years experience! Member Lincoln Suzuki Talent Education,Inc

Centrally located • email: lauraatpeg@gmail.comLaura (402) 474-0302 All messages returned!

Page 26 • www.lincolnkids.com 3900 South Street 402-440-1473 www.stringstudio.com

Violin, Viola,Guitar, Piano,

CelloNissa’s String Studio

Professional instruction in our 4-room facility with waiting area. Private lessons, chamber music, recording, recitals, & more. Making music fun in a positive learning environment! Violin, fiddle, viola, acoustic/electric guitar, piano, and cello. Ages 3-adult. Home of Spitfire Fiddle Band. Call us today!

Art PlanetAfter school art programs designed to inspire imagination and encourage creativity. All media and techniques taught by qualified and enthusiastic teaching staff. Weekly classes for elementary through high school ages with a focus on engaging students with special needs. New classes every month! Visit the website for the current class schedule.

email: hello@artplanetlincoln.comWeb: www.artplanetlincoln.com

Tamara 402-610-2295 • Southeast LocationArt

Winter 2014 Page 27

Lincoln Kids!

Name Program/Service Location(s) & phone

‘Little Ones’ Directory of Services

My Gym Baby exercises, songs, dances, infant-safe rides, unique swings and many other parent and me adventures in age appropriate classes starting at 6 weeks up to 13 years.

2755 Jamie Lane, Suite 4 (near S 27th & Yankee Hill Road)

402-802-9982

KindermusikHarris Academy of the Arts

FREE Preview Classes! Listen & Move; Play & Grow! Kindermusik–the most trusted music and movement program for infants, toddlers, preschoolers, & young children.Experienced university-trained music educators provide reputable quality, instruction.

2935 Pine Lake Rd (across from So. Pointe Mall) 402-423-7121

www.harrisacademyofthearts.com

Ager Indoor Play Center

Classes for ages 6 mos-5 yrs: music, theatre, arts & crafts, etc. Sessions begin every month. Play Center is open Mon-Sat for indoor play.Admission is $3.50/person, 12 mos and under free.

1300 S. 27th St 402-441-6788 (recorded info); 402-441-6792; web: parks.lincoln.ne.gov

Discoveries Music Studio(Simply Music®programs)

FREE Preview Lesson. Children learn real piano skills to express delightful children’s stories. Adults attend to partner with children in creative activities. Small, personalized classes. Experienced teacher licensed by internationally acclaimed program. Ages 4-6.

Linda Trone 402-432-6583discoveriesmusic@gmail.com

We hope you will join us for the Spring 2015 Issue.Ad, Article and Children’s art deadline is January 10th, 2015

Phone: 402-798-0224 Email: lincolnkids@windstream.netWeb: lincolnkidsinc.com

Kids!Send us your

Art Work!Visit us

on Facebook!

Art PlanetFine Arts Play Group for preschoolers at Art Planet! Encourage creative growth in your little ones while interacting with art materials in a setting that fosters big imaginations! Visit the website for the current class schedule. This is a time for preschoolers and their adult to attend class together. Make new friends!

email: hello@artplanetlincoln.comWeb: www.artplanetlincoln.com

Tamara 402-610-2295 • Southeast Location

Family Friendly Restaurants

Name Type of Food Kid Specials Location(s)

Prices & Specials subject to change without notice. Kid Meal Deals & Where Kids Can Eat For Free

Grisanti’s ItalianBambino Day: All day Monday

Kids ages 10 & under eat free from kid’s menu! One child per adult entree purchased.

6820 “O” Street • 402-464-8444

Amigos/ Kings Classic

5701 NW 1st, 29th & Cornhusker, 48th & Leighton, 4700 W. Huntington, 63rd & Havelock, Coddington & West A, 14th & Q, 27th & Capitol,

Gateway Mall, 70th & A, 14th & Hwy 2, 14th & Pine Lake Rd., 56th & Old Cheney

Fast & Friendly place for the family. 6 Kids’ Meals to choose from – Cheesy Burritos to Cheeseburgers to Chicken Bites. Meals include drink, fries, and an ice cream treat! Reduced price Kid’s Meal EVERY DAY from 5–8 p.m. with adult purchase.

Mexican & American

Greenfield’s Cafe FamilyKids Receive a 99¢ Smiley Pancake Meal When You Mention This Ad!

With an adult purchase. For ages 12 & under. Great Things are Happening at Greenfield’s!

7900 South 84th (87th & Hwy 2 across from Walmart) 402-420-3232 • www.greenfieldscafe.com

Applebee’s American Grill Kids’ meals are only 99¢ on Wednesdays! Available for dine in only at participating Applebee’s locations.

Good toward kids’ meal items for children 12 and under. 40th & Old Cheney • Westfield Gateway Mall

3951 N. 27th Street

Page 28 • www.lincolnkidsinc.com

Lincoln Kids!

Name Area of Town Program Location(s) & phone

...plus private school, preschool and after school Directory

Kelly’s Kids Learning and Development Center Northwest

Featuring developmentally appropriate curriculum, healthy homemade meals, caring teachers, & a larger outdoor play area. Ages 6wks-5 years accepted, open 7am-6pm M-F. Title XX assistance accepted. Full or part-time care available.

4901 NW 1st Street 402-477-4901 www.kellyskidsldc.com

Dimensions Early Education Programs @ First-Plymouth Central

Quality early education program using Dimensions Educational Foundation Research program for children 6 weeks–preschool. Summer programs for K–5th grade. Visit dimensionsfoundation.org for information or online forms. Openings available!

located in First-Plymouth Church, 20th & D Sts. 402-476-8304

Academic Advantage Child Development Center Central/South

Educational childcare facility offering care for ages 6 weeks to 12 years. Benefits include: classroom style facilities, year round preschool programs, summer camps, transportation to schools, educated teachers, video security, on-site owners. Hours: 6:30AM – 6PM, Monday–Friday (all three facilities). e-mail: info@aacdc.com

630 N. Cotner Blvd. #200 (behind Westfield Mall) 402-465-4769 • 6021 S. 56th Street (south of 56th &

Old Cheney) 402-420-5440 • 7301 S. 15th Street (south of 14th & Pine Lake) 402-421-7301

Highlands Academy NorthwestChild Development & Family Resource Center.

Ages 6 weeks–12 years. Full time Care. Preschool Curriculum.

5901 NW 1st Street 402-476-2223

Brandy’s Bunch SoutheastCome where learning blossoms and friendships grow. Preschool Program, Curriculum for All Ages, Accepting Title XX, Low Child to Teacher Ratio, New Outdoor Playground.

1111 Old Cheney (West Entrance of Christ’s Place) 402-420-0460

CentralChrist Kids provides quality programming by an experienced and trained staff, taught with a Christian perspective. Infants – 5th grade. Children grow academically, physically, socially and spiritually. Our safe, nurturing environment with small class sizes makes this a great place for kids.

Christ Kids Child Care and Preschool

Centrally located at 43rd and Sumner St402-483-7774 ext. 110 www.christschools.org

CEDARS North CentralFocusing on school readiness, we offer secure, nurturing environments to children ages 6wks–12yrs. Includes before & after school programs at Clinton and Hartley Schools. Programsare accredited by the Council on Accreditation (COA) &/or the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). Title XX accepted. Call now to enroll your child today!

402-434-KIDS (5437)cedarskids.org

Colorful Minds Child Development Center South

New facility. High-quality care & Early Childhood Education Program for ages 6wks-12 yrs. Open 7am-6pm–Mon.–Fri. Theme based curriculum–developmentally appropriate for each age group. Enhancement of your child’s intellectual, physical, social & emotional well-being. Sign-language, music, & hands-on projects in a fun, safe, secure environment. Large Playground with a 5-sided structure. Healthy snacks/meals provided. Educated teachers. Title XX accepted.

7244 S. 29th St. • 421-MIND (6463)www.colorfulminds.net

4 Views Academy NortheastOpen 6am-6pm. Ages 6wks to 12 yrs. Accepting Title XX. Age appropriate

curriculum. Parent Involvement. Director: Gina Tanner. Email: 4viewsacademy@gmail.com Web: www.4viewsacademy.com

4330 Cornhusker Hwy 402-464-01744747 Pioneers Blvd. 402-484-8196

Immanuel Lutheran Preschool

CentralChristian preschool program. Small classes with hands on experiences for little learners. Art, science and learning through exploration. AM classes–9-11:30. MWF for 4/5 year olds, TTH for 3/4 year olds. PM sessions available when AM is full.

2001 South 11th Street474-6275

Bubbles & BlocksChild Development Center, LLC Northeast Brand new, family owned child development center, now open! Northeast Lincoln

location. Offering care to children ages 6 wks–12 yrs. Monday-Friday, 6:30am-6pm. Call now to reserve your spot! Web: bubblesandblock.com

8521 Lexington Ave. 402-328-0404

Aspen Child Development Center & Montessori School Southeast

Quality developmentally appropriate child care program for children 6 weeks –12 years of age. Enroll now for Montessori Preschool Program. Beautiful center for children–come see the difference! Open Monday–Friday, 6:30 am - 6:00 pm. Locally owned & operated. 91st & Pine Lake Road area.

402-483-5511 • aspencdc.com9300 Heritage Lakes Drive

Krayon Campus Central Child development center that cares for your child’s Individual needs. Ages 6 Weeks–12 Years. Curriculum Based. Nutritious Hot Meals. Title XX accepted. Transportation to LPS area schools. Open Mon.–Fri. 6am-6pm.

6001 Normal Blvd.402-486-4847

Calvert RecrecationPreSchool South

A preschool program focused on music, art, math, and language. A great program of playing and learning that will help prepare your child for kindergarten. M/W/F 9-11:30 and T/Th 9:30-11:30.

Calvert Community Center 4500 Stockwell.402-441-8480, web: parks.lincoln.ne.gov

Dual Language Preschool South

Our thematic content supports language development in both English & Spanish and allows preschoolers of all language backgrounds to have fun while playing & learn-ing kindergarten readiness skills. Openings currently available! M/W/F, 9-11:30 a.m.

Irving Rec Center, 2010 Van Dorn, 402-441-7954, web: parks.lincoln.ne.gov

First Learning Center Southeast Community preschool for children ages 3-5. We believe in learning by exploring and doing. Weekly chapel time. Hands on experiences in our Certified Nature Explore Classroom and small class sizes. All are welcome to grow here.

402-488-0919 • flclincoln.org1551 South 70th Street

FingerprintsChild Development Center Northeast

Featuring an educational curriculum for all ages in a loving Christian environment! Open 6:30 am-6:00 pm. 6 weeks–10 years. Enrolling now for part-time PreK morning program. M–F from 9am–11:30am.

7800 Holdrege • 402-467-4503capitolcitychristianchurch.com

La Petite Academy South/CentralLa Petite Academy is NECPA Accredited & has been inspiring children for over 40 years. Our quality early education programs are individually designed for children 6 weeks-age 12. Open 6-6 M-F, Title XX, transportation to area schools. Call about our Fall/Summer school readiness curriculum, Flex Days, and our new From the Start Infant /Toddler programs.

6632 Taylor Park Drive • 402-488-3125Vicky Jones–Director

2700 Jameson North • 402-421-3125Nicole Lippold–Director

Winter 2014 Page 29

Lincoln Kids!

Little Learners Preschool and Academy Southeast Academic-based, Christian preschool with Extended Care

hours 7:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. Sanine Beck, Director402-840-1196

MyLittleLearners.com

Name Area of Town Program Location(s) & phone

continued

Prairie Hill Learning Center Far South Ages 18 mo. thru 8th grade. Open 7am-6pm. Care of farm animals, close to nature, family atmosphere. Elementary Program.

7 miles South of Lincoln on Hwy 77402-438-6668 www.prairiehill.comMontessori

The Child’s View South Open 7:15 to 5:45 pm. Ages 18 months to 6 years. Part time or full time. Professionally Certified/Degreed staff.

3341 Pioneers Blvd. 402-484-8277Montessori

Prairieview Preschool East Nestled on 80 gorgeous acres east of Lincoln, we offer your child a special and unique experience. New facility. Spacious accommodations, developmental learning centers, and the natural setting of a country school all provide for a wholesome atmosphere.

143rd “O” St. • 402-488-0012Kitra Deger-Director

SouthQuality, licensed Christian preschool educational program for children 3–5 years. Five different AM & PM classes & all day classes 9am-3pm. Extended care 7:30-9am & 3-5:30pm. School year and summer classes available. NAEYC accredited.

Westminster Preschool Westminster Presbyterian Church

2110 Sheridan Blvd. www.wpslincoln.org402-475-6702 ext 103

World of Knowledge Child development Center Southeast

Ages 6 weeks – 12. Preschool curriculum beginning at age one. Before and after school out care. Sign language, swimming, soccer dance and taekwondo lessons

and music lessons are available. Open 6:30AM–6:00PM.

8310 Wendell Way 402-483-4769worldofknowledgene.com

Lincoln ChristianPreschool South Academic Christian Preschool. Attend 2, 3 or 5

half-day sessions per week. AM and PM available.5801 S. 84th St. 488-8888 x 252www.lincolnchristian.org/preschool

Living Faith Daycare NortheastNurturing Christian Environment. We accept children 6 wks to 12 years. Follow USDA Food Program requirements. Before/after school care and summer program for school-aged children. Open 6:30am-5:30pm Mon-Fri.

5910 Holdrege St. 402-464-5410

Pioneers Park Nature Center Preschool West Animals + Plants + Hikes = learning through discovery + creating

a lifelong connection to nature. Preschool and Pre-K classes.West end of Pio. Park 402.441.7895 parks.lincoln.ne.gov/naturecenter/preschool

...and this page has even more great places to

know about.

Northeast Family Center Northeast Northeast Family Center, 6220 Logan Ave 402-471-1047

Early Learning Center for 6 wks–5 years including preschool. Creative curriculum. 7am-6pm. Also, before and after school care\transport to Brownell, Norwood Park and Pershing. Community Learning Centers are located at Norwood Park and Brownell Elementary schools.

Tinker Tots Preschool & Childcare SoutheastAccepting applications for ages 21/2-5. Personal relationship with all fam-ilies in a home environment. Nationally accredited with developmentally appropriate activities. Affordable rates.

402-904-4406 education@tinkertotsdaycare.com

Sprouts Preschool SoutheastSprouts is led by inventive, creative and powerful certified teachers with a passion to educate! Playful Discovery: A perfect class for early learners. Advanced Academy: An academic based class paving the way for transition to kindergarten.

402-328-2952 sproutspreschoollincoln.com

Recipes From Our Past: collected and updated by Lois Noble Many of the recipes popular today have been passed down

through the years from our ancestors. Their recipes have passed the test of time because they developed cooking skills to make plain, simple flavorful meals from the products available to them.

Boiled Ham With Fruit Sauce Place Ham Butt in cooking pot large enough to cover ham with

boiling water. Boil ham until tender ... about 30 minutes per pound. Remove from cooking utensil, slice and serve with store bought cranberry sauce or one of those great sugar free fruit butters avail-able. Our favorites include McCutchens Sugar Free Cherry Butter or Apple Pie Butter which we purchase at Union Orchard a few miles south of Union Corner on the way to Nebraska City.

Pumpkin Pudding 2 Tablespoons soft butter1/2 cup brown sugar1 1/2 cups canned pumpkin3 eggs2 cups milk1/2 cup sugar1 teaspoon ground cinnamon1/2 teaspoon ginger1/2 teaspoon nutmeg2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice if desiredsalt to tasteFrench Vanilla Cool Whip Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spread butter around bottom and sides

of 1 1/2 quart baking dish. Sprinkle brown sugar over the butter. Mix all other ingredients together in a bowl. Blend well. Pour into greased bak-ing dish and set dish in a pan of hot water. Bake for one hour, until set. Serve cold topped with Cool Whip.

Page 30 • www.lincolnkidsinc.com

Lincoln Kids!

Capital Birthday Ideas

Place Fun Features Location(s) & phone

Party Directory Prices & Specials subject to change without notice.

Champions Fun Center Best Birthday Parties Ever! Gold package includes a Party Hero, free t-shirt to decorate, mystery gift, two activities; choose from bowling, adventure maze, go-karts, mini golf, free fall or water wars, tokens, face painting or balloon animals, pizza & pop, dippin’ dots & cupcakes.

402-434-7066www.championsfuncenter.com

Capital City GymnasticsA Birthday Party with 3 Party Package Options – Featuring a zip line, 18’ inflatable

slide, and 15’x15’ bouncer. Plus, foam pit, trampoline and spring floor. Inflatables also available for outside rental.

5030 N. 57th • 402-464-9692www.capitalcitygymnastics.net

Laser QuestMake Laser Quest Your Party Headquarters! Laser Quest, an interactive adventure

game of laser tag and hide & seek, provides intense fun for birthday parties, team celebrations, family reunions and group events. Check us out www.laserquest.com

68th & “P” Street (East Park Plaza)402-465-5522

Lincoln Children’s Museum

Celebrate at the Museum! Birthday packages start at $70. Choose from a one-hour themed party room (Pirates, Princess, Cowboy, Cowgirl, & Safari). Includes balloons, party favors, drinks, & paper ware. Museum Members receive a 10% discount. Parties can be booked online at LincolnChildrensMuseum.org, in person, or by phone.

1420 P Street, Lincoln, NELincolnChildrensMuseum.org

Madsen’s Bowling Have a Bowling Party. Kids love our bumper bowling. Includes cake, pop, balloons and a “personalized” bowling pin gift for the birthday child! Ask about Jr. Pool Leagues!

47th & Dudley • 402-467-32492 blks south of 48th & Holdrege

Paint Yourself Silly PartyArty at Paint Yourself Silly! Come unleash your inner artist. 100’s of pieces to choose from. Pottery painting fun for all ages.

2 Great Locations • www.paintyourselfsilly.net Downtown in the Haymarket: 701 P Street • 402-474-1010

Near 70th & Pioneers: 4107 Pioneer Woods • 402-486-1010

Larson Lifestyle CenterHave your next pool party at Larson Lifestyle’s Warm Water pool! Variety of birthday party options to fit any budget. Join us for swimming and bring your gifts and cake for our party room. Call us today for more information.

52nd & Stockwell • 402-486-2525www.larsonlifestylecenter.com

My Gym Your Child is the Star... Supervised age appropriate games, fun activities, rides, songs, puppets and more. Your birthday party can enjoy exclusive use of our facility!

2755 Jamie Lane, Suite 4 (near S 27th & Yankee Hill Road)

402-802-9982

LUX Center for the ArtsCelebrate at the LUX Center! Embrace your inner artist and choose from a variety of projects including: clay mugs or bowls, screen printed t-shirts and tote bags, group painting and printmaking. Each guest makes their own piece of art!

2601 N. 48th Street • 402-466-8692www.luxcenter.org

YMCA-Cooper, Fallbrook & Northeast Branch

Have your next birthday party at the Y! The YMCA offers a variety of birthday party options to fit any child. Join us to swim or have one of our themed birthday parties. Parties start at $65. Call for more information. Or visit: www.ymcalincoln.org

Cooper - 6767 S. 14th St. 402-323-6400 Fallbrook - 700 Penrose Dr. 402-323-6444 Northeast - 2601 N. 70th 402-434-9262

Lost In Fun! Your Outdoor Playland... Indoors! Voted Lincoln’s Choice, “Best Place to Have a Kid’s Birthday Party” in 2012 & 2013. Indoor fun for all ages! Playsets, foam pit, inflatable jumpers, fun maze, laser maze, video games, birthday party rooms and a snack area.

8431 Cody Drive (15th & Yankee Hill) (402) 261-0440 • www.lostinfun.com

Youth Actors Academy of Lincoln

Be a Broadway Star! YAAL provides an instructor and our theatre for the birthday child and up to 15 friends to choreograph and costume a special performance! Book at: www.yaal.org

Circle Me Hold your next Function or Birthday Party with us! Circle Me is conveniently located near 33rd and O Streets. Our large party room available for rent at $45 for three hours. Seats 30 but will hold up to 50 people. Call us for open times or more information.

3120 ‘O’ Street • 402-435-6767 www.circleme.me

University of NebraskaState Museum-Morrill Hall

Guided museum activities including a hands-on fossil dig in the Marx Discovery Center and gifts for every child! Five party themes to choose from, private party room.

Morrill Hall on the UNL Campus402-472-2637 • www.museum.unl.edu/birthdays

Ager Indoor Play Center The Active Party Place! Open hours and after hours rentals available. Special play areas for those 2 and under and 3 and over.

1300 S. 27th St 402-441-6788 (recorded info); 402-441-6792; web: parks.lincoln.ne.gov

Pioneers Park Nature Center Owls, snakes, bugs and the great outdoors are eager to make your child’s birthday a special one.

West end of Pioneers Park 402.441.7895 parks.lincoln.ne.gov/naturecenter/birthdays.html

Tiger Rock Academy Unforgettable party with martial arts, food, games, cut the cake with a sword, break boards and more! $249-$299 for up to 40 friends!

402-483-10112 locations available

Art PlanetAdd an artistic element to your birthday party! Come to the studio to celebrate your party “Art Planet” style where guests get to take home their masterpiece as the party favor! Party consists of one hour art lesson plus half hour for your cake and presents. You pick the project! Visit the website for a list of project ideas and party details.

email: hello@artplanetlincoln.comWeb: www.artplanetlincoln.com

Tamara 402-610-2295 • Southeast Location

Lincoln Kids!

“Alex, your brother ate everything on his plate. Why don’t you be a good boy too and eat your dinner?”“But I’m not hungry,” said Alex.“Okay, I guess you won’t be hungry for sweets then,” said Alex’s Mom. Alex’s Mom walked over to the countertop and brought over the most mouth-watering, tasty looking dessert you ever did see. “Okay, who wants a piece of chocolate cake?” Before anyone else at the table could utter a single word, Alex blurted out, “Me, me, me, me, me!”“Alex, you just said you’re not hungry,” said Alex’s Mom. “How could you possibly want a piece of cake?”“I just got hungry all of a sudden,” said Alex.“Good, I bet you’re ready to eat your peas and carrots then!”“I’m not hungry for them. I’ll just have a piece of cake please,” said Alex.“Alex, it doesn’t work that way. To get a piece of cake you’ll have to eat your dinner first.”“But I don’t want too!”“Well, I guess you’ll just have to call it a night,” said Alex’s Dad. “You’re excused from the table Alex. Brush your teeth and get to bed young man.”“Yes, sir,” replied Alex. As Alex stood up from the table, his brother pretended to be flying an airplane. After a bite of chocolate cake made a safe landing in his brother’s mouth, Alex ran out of the room as fast as he could. Being sent to bed without having dessert was tough enough, but being teased by his brother is what really took the cake. After he brushed his teeth and climbed into bed, Alex found it hard to fall asleep that night. His stomach roared like an angry lion and he felt dizzy. “I am so hungry,” Alex said aloud. Alex felt weak. The room was spinning! As he made his way to the kitchen, Alex could hardly wait to sneak a nice big piece of chocolate cake. He knew that would make him feel better. But when Alex opened the refrigerator door he was shocked to see a crocodile swimming in a jar of pickles. The crocodile looked mean and appeared ready to attack. Alex slammed the refrigerator door and cried out, “Help me; please help me.”

Alex’s cry for help woke everyone in his family up. His parents and brother rushed to see what was wrong.“What’s going on Alex?” asked Alex’s Dad. “Why are you up at this time of night?” Alex hid behind the kitchen table as he point-ed to the refrigerator and said, “Daddy, there’s a crocodile in our pickle jar.”“There’s a what?” asked Alex’s Mom.“I saw it! It’s in there,” said Alex. “There’s a crocodile in our pickle jar.”As Alex’s Mom and brother joined him behind the kitchen table, Alex’s Dad opened the re-frigerator door. He grabbed the jar of pickles. “Please get it out of here,” cried Alex.Alex’s Dad reached into the pickle jar and

took a huge bite out of the crocodile. “Wow,” said Alex’s Dad. “This isn’t sweet. When did we get dill pickles?” “What’s going on?” asked Alex. “Where’s the crocodile? I saw it move. It showed me its teeth.”After Alex was reassured everything was okay, his parents reminded him of how important food was for energy. Alex’s empty stomach was why he had felt dizzy and weak; and when you feel that way your eyes can play tricks on you. So you see, there never was a crocodile in the pickle jar that night! The next evening when Alex’s Mom told everyone there was plenty of leftover chocolate cake for dessert, Alex was the only one who didn’t want any. He was too stuffed. Three helpings of broccoli will do that. THE END

Artie Knapp is the author of many published works for young readers. Among Artie’s writing credits are the award-winning children’s book, Stuttering Stan Takes a Stand, and Living Green: A Turtle’s Quest for a Cleaner Planet, a shortlist finalist for the 2012 Green Earth Book Award. He is a member of The Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators, Visit his website at:

www.artieknapp.com

Artie Knapp Shares A Story

Winter 2014 Page 35

Thank you for reading Lincoln kids!It has been a great year and we look forward to seeing all of you next year in the Spring 2015 issue of Lincoln Kids! newspaper.

Mark Martin, Editor and Publisher

GET AWAY FROM THE USUAL AT YMCA CAMP KITAKI

NEW YEARS LIVE Dec. 29th-Jan. 1st • Ages 7-14 • $175PROGRAM: Come ring in the New Year at Camp Kitaki! For 4 days and 3 nights, campers will enjoy activities such as a dance party, winter gaga, and creating their own country to compete in the Wacky Winter Olympics. This is the longest campout we do during the non-Summer months and is a great way to meet new friends and try out Camp’s programs. From the opening ceremonies to the closing party, this is a campout not to miss!

MASTERPIECE ARTS WEEKENDFeb. 27th-March 1st • Ages 11-15 • $115PROGRAM: Masterpiece Arts Weekend campers choose an art focus from eight different choices and delve into creating take-home pieces of art. Led by the talented camp staff and outside artists and teachers the event is a great way to explore creativity with no skill required! Learn more about photography, mosaics, music and more! Campers can show off their art to family and friends at the Art Show at the end of the weekend.

CABIN FEVER February 14-15 • Ages 7-14 • $57PROGRAM: Kids have cabin fever? Camp Kitaki has the cure. Cabin Fever campers spend a night at camp with plenty of fun! Sledding and snow activities will be a focus if weather permits. Send your camper to camp while you enjoy a belated night out for Valentine’s Day!

YMCA CAMP KITAKISUMMER CAMP • YEAR AROUND CAMPOUTS • OUTDOOR EDUCATION • RETREATS • FAMILY CAMPS

402-434-9222 www.ymcalincoln.org/kitaki

WHERE THE MAGIC NEVER ENDS...

UPCOMING CAMPOUT EVENTS