All moms, at times, are fighters.  But some by circumstance are more so than others.  Shawn Neff is one such mom as she is leading the fight to pave the way for all families with autistic children, helping them lead happy and inclusive lives.

Shawn and her husband, Casey, are from Kearney, Nebraska and moved to Omaha after college.  Shawn was continuing her education attending grad school, but with the arrival of the couple’s first son, J.P., she opted for the role of full time mom over school.  J.P. was a happy baby and by all accounts was developing as he should.  But by the age of two, Shawn began to notice that some things in his development were not quite right.  “I couldn’t put my finger on it,” she says.  “I didn’t know what to Google.  I saw some sensory issues and he was afraid of large groups of kids, it seemed strange but I didn’t have a word for the behaviors.”

J.P. was able to memorize and label items using single words, everything under the sun according to Shawn, but he was unable to complete simple sentences.   Like most moms, Shawn would complete sentences for him. If he would cry she would get him juice without him asking for it.  Shawn’s mother-in-law, a teacher, began to pick up on some of the behaviors as well, so Shawn took J.P. to get his hearing tested.  That did not go well.  “J.P. totally flipped out when they got close to ears,” says Shawn.  After a consultation with J.P.’s pediatrician Shawn and Casey came face to face with three reasons the doctor gave for her son’s issues; PDD-NOS (pervasive development disorder – not otherwise specified, also called atypical autism), Asperger’s Syndrome or autism.

Shawn set out to get her son seen by a specialist to get a correct diagnosis but it would be months before she could get him an appointment.  She began to do her own research and concluded, correctly, that her son had autism.  During her research, Shawn discovered ABA therapy (applied behavior analysis) which involves using modern behavior learning theory to modify behaviors.  She started working with J.P. using a verbal behavior program.  In Nebraska, FEAT of Nebraska (Families for Effective Autism Treatment) offers the ABA program but that can cost families up to $60,000 as insurance does not cover the program.  So Shawn enlisted the help of area college students to work with J.P.  “I made simple index cards with tasks like “saying no” so he would get repetition practicing those skills,” she says.  “The college kids kept him engaged working on several tasks each day.”  For example; J.P. had a toy train that made a noise that scared him.  In an effort to teach and help him to be his own advocate and express “no” to things he did not like, the students used the toy and subsequently J.P. said “no” when the toy was on.

Shawn was also looking at ways to help J.P. in social situations, for instance, teaching him how to process participating at the school playground.  “Current research is showing that virtually every person with autism has some sensory issues,” she says.  “J.P. had school therapists who helped him work with things like handwriting, but he also needed help integrating all of his senses. His sight, hearing, touch, taste and smell all seemed to be distorted from what the rest of us experience.”

The problem or roadblock that Shawn was running into in her search for aid for J.P. came in the form of insurance, as seen with the ABA program through FEAT of Nebraska.  “Twenty-nine other states have insurance coverage for persons with autism, Nebraska does not.  The lives of people with autism can improve with treatment but it has to be a full-team approach where the medical community (occupational, speech and physical therapists) work with the educational community.  They are fighting each other instead of working together and right now we are getting the bare minimum.”

And as Shawn was working with schools, doctors and insurances for therapies for J.P., she began to observe that her second child, a son named Trey, was beginning to exhibit signs of autistic behavior as well.  “Trey has Asperger’s Syndrome.  He has many of the same issues as his brother but because he is so incredibly verbal it masks many of his difficulties.”

Now she was fighting for both sons to get the therapies (OT, PT, speech) they needed from their elementary school.  “Both boys, from the ages of three to five got early invention in school with other special needs kids, but it was a struggle to their individual needs met.”  So once again, Shawn being her own advocate, researched area schools looking for the best programs for her boys.  She found them and was able to enroll her sons in Swanson Elementary in Westside Public Schools.  “In Westside schools the teachers are on board with their issues,” says Shawn.

Shawn, after realizing that there was so much information to be learned and navigated regarding autism, felt she needed to share what she knew and become an advocate for other parents of children with autism.  She joined the Autism Society of Nebraska (ASN) and serves as the Communications Director.

“Being an advocate is a full time job,” says Shawn.  “And for parents in non-profit, every one of us is a mover and shaker.  Autism has become the squeaky wheel that gets the grease!”  The ASN does a lot for Nebraska families and their autistic children.  They offer support groups, newsletters, scholarships and grants for conferences as well as raise money for programs and support for their families.  “The majority of our families are not upper class, they are not able to afford occupational and physical therapies and rely on the schools.  These families and our board need the communities help.”

In addition to the many services provided, a large part of what the ASN does is organizing events for their families, events that most of us take for granted.  “When families are diagnosed, they isolate themselves,” says Shawn.  “Then it is hard for them to come back out.”  The ASN plans events to help get families back out and doing fun things together with the goal of helping autistic kids assimilate and get used to being at social events.  There are Easter egg hunts, Santa Clause visits, pumpkin patch visits, pool parties and BBQ’s.   There are days at the movies when the theater is reserved for only ASN.  The volume is turned down and the lights are a little brighter, all geared to help with sensory issues the children have.  “The best part of the movie events is that everything flies here,” smiles Shawn.  “Many of these kids cannot go to a regular movie so they practice here.  Trey talks the whole time so I teach him no talking and asking so many questions while the movie is on!”

According to Shawn, one of the most rewarding events is a monthly meeting held at Pump it Up.  Here kids can jump and bounce, have great fun, while parents meet with each other as well as area specialists and speakers.  Area college students that specialize in speech pathology and other areas volunteer their time and stay and work with the kids.  “These events are a life line,” says Shawn.  “Especially for the single parent or for the dad that cannot handle the kids while mom is at the meeting.  It is great parent time.”

Donations are very much needed to help ASN help all of their families.  And one way to raise both funds and awareness is through the April 28^th 2012 Autism Walk and 5K Fun Run at Chalco Hills Recreation Area (156^th and Giles).   “We have added the 5K which we think people will like,” says Shawn.  “We will also have bouncy houses, carnival games and face painting.  And 100% of the money raised stays in Nebraska.”  Shawn says that ASN is in need of volunteers, sponsors, runners and walkers to make this a great event.  “Last year we raised over $50,000 and that was great but the money doesn’t go as far as you’d expect.  There is just so much to be done!  Every year we want a bigger and better event…we need more people!”

At the end of the day for Shawn, she says that the hat she wears is that of parent advocate.  “But I am also a Jeckle and Hyde with being on staff at ASN and a mom volunteer at school,” she laughs.  “This is my niche, I do this for the parents that can’t.”  Shawn plans on going back to school for counseling or psychology.  “It’s my passion to service the community.”

And that’s a good thing for families dealing with autism.  That and the fact that Shawn has no intention of hanging up her fighting gloves any time soon.

For more information on the Autism Society of Nebraska, make a donation or sign up or become a sponsor for the April 28^th 2012 Autism Walk and 5K run, visit www.autismnebraska.org.

All moms, at times, are fighters.  But some by circumstance are more so than others.  Shawn Neff is one such mom as she is leading the fight to pave the way for all families with autistic children, helping them lead happy and inclusive lives.

Shawn and her husband, Casey, are from Kearney, Nebraska and moved to Omaha after college.  Shawn was continuing her education attending grad school, but with the arrival of the couple’s first son, J.P., she opted for the role of full time mom over school.  J.P. was a happy baby and by all accounts was developing as he should.  But by the age of two, Shawn began to notice that some things in his development were not quite right.  “I couldn’t put my finger on it,” she says.  “I didn’t know what to Google.  I saw some sensory issues and he was afraid of large groups of kids, it seemed strange but I didn’t have a word for the behaviors.”

J.P. was able to memorize and label items using single words, everything under the sun according to Shawn, but he was unable to complete simple sentences.   Like most moms, Shawn would complete sentences for him. If he would cry she would get him juice without him asking for it.  Shawn’s mother-in-law, a teacher, began to pick up on some of the behaviors as well, so Shawn took J.P. to get his hearing tested.  That did not go well.  “J.P. totally flipped out when they got close to ears,” says Shawn.  After a consultation with J.P.’s pediatrician Shawn and Casey came face to face with three reasons the doctor gave for her son’s issues; PDD-NOS (pervasive development disorder – not otherwise specified, also called atypical autism), Asperger’s Syndrome or autism.

Shawn set out to get her son seen by a specialist to get a correct diagnosis but it would be months before she could get him an appointment.  She began to do her own research and concluded, correctly, that her son had autism.  During her research, Shawn discovered ABA therapy (applied behavior analysis) which involves using modern behavior learning theory to modify behaviors.  She started working with J.P. using a verbal behavior program.  In Nebraska, FEAT of Nebraska (Families for Effective Autism Treatment) offers the ABA program but that can cost families up to $60,000 as insurance does not cover the program.  So Shawn enlisted the help of area college students to work with J.P.  “I made simple index cards with tasks like “saying no” so he would get repetition practicing those skills,” she says.  “The college kids kept him engaged working on several tasks each day.”  For example; J.P. had a toy train that made a noise that scared him.  In an effort to teach and help him to be his own advocate and express “no” to things he did not like, the students used the toy and subsequently J.P. said “no” when the toy was on.

Shawn was also looking at ways to help J.P. in social situations, for instance, teaching him how to process participating at the school playground.  “Current research is showing that virtually every person with autism has some sensory issues,” she says.  “J.P. had school therapists who helped him work with things like handwriting, but he also needed help integrating all of his senses. His sight, hearing, touch, taste and smell all seemed to be distorted from what the rest of us experience.”

The problem or roadblock that Shawn was running into in her search for aid for J.P. came in the form of insurance, as seen with the ABA program through FEAT of Nebraska.  “Twenty-nine other states have insurance coverage for persons with autism, Nebraska does not.  The lives of people with autism can improve with treatment but it has to be a full-team approach where the medical community (occupational, speech and physical therapists) work with the educational community.  They are fighting each other instead of working together and right now we are getting the bare minimum.”

And as Shawn was working with schools, doctors and insurances for therapies for J.P., she began to observe that her second child, a son named Trey, was beginning to exhibit signs of autistic behavior as well.  “Trey has Asperger’s Syndrome.  He has many of the same issues as his brother but because he is so incredibly verbal it masks many of his difficulties.”

Now she was fighting for both sons to get the therapies (OT, PT, speech) they needed from their elementary school.  “Both boys, from the ages of three to five got early invention in school with other special needs kids, but it was a struggle to their individual needs met.”  So once again, Shawn being her own advocate, researched area schools looking for the best programs for her boys.  She found them and was able to enroll her sons in Swanson Elementary in Westside Public Schools.  “In Westside schools the teachers are on board with their issues,” says Shawn.

Shawn, after realizing that there was so much information to be learned and navigated regarding autism, felt she needed to share what she knew and become an advocate for other parents of children with autism.  She joined the Autism Society of Nebraska (ASN) and serves as the Communications Director.

“Being an advocate is a full time job,” says Shawn.  “And for parents in non-profit, every one of us is a mover and shaker.  Autism has become the squeaky wheel that gets the grease!”  The ASN does a lot for Nebraska families and their autistic children.  They offer support groups, newsletters, scholarships and grants for conferences as well as raise money for programs and support for their families.  “The majority of our families are not upper class, they are not able to afford occupational and physical therapies and rely on the schools.  These families and our board need the communities help.”

In addition to the many services provided, a large part of what the ASN does is organizing events for their families, events that most of us take for granted.  “When families are diagnosed, they isolate themselves,” says Shawn.  “Then it is hard for them to come back out.”  The ASN plans events to help get families back out and doing fun things together with the goal of helping autistic kids assimilate and get used to being at social events.  There are Easter egg hunts, Santa Clause visits, pumpkin patch visits, pool parties and BBQ’s.   There are days at the movies when the theater is reserved for only ASN.  The volume is turned down and the lights are a little brighter, all geared to help with sensory issues the children have.  “The best part of the movie events is that everything flies here,” smiles Shawn.  “Many of these kids cannot go to a regular movie so they practice here.  Trey talks the whole time so I teach him no talking and asking so many questions while the movie is on!”

According to Shawn, one of the most rewarding events is a monthly meeting held at Pump it Up.  Here kids can jump and bounce, have great fun, while parents meet with each other as well as area specialists and speakers.  Area college students that specialize in speech pathology and other areas volunteer their time and stay and work with the kids.  “These events are a life line,” says Shawn.  “Especially for the single parent or for the dad that cannot handle the kids while mom is at the meeting.  It is great parent time.”

Donations are very much needed to help ASN help all of their families.  And one way to raise both funds and awareness is through the April 28^th 2012 Autism Walk and 5K Fun Run at Chalco Hills Recreation Area (156^th and Giles).   “We have added the 5K which we think people will like,” says Shawn.  “We will also have bouncy houses, carnival games and face painting.  And 100% of the money raised stays in Nebraska.”  Shawn says that ASN is in need of volunteers, sponsors, runners and walkers to make this a great event.  “Last year we raised over $50,000 and that was great but the money doesn’t go as far as you’d expect.  There is just so much to be done!  Every year we want a bigger and better event…we need more people!”

At the end of the day for Shawn, she says that the hat she wears is that of parent advocate.  “But I am also a Jeckle and Hyde with being on staff at ASN and a mom volunteer at school,” she laughs.  “This is my niche, I do this for the parents that can’t.”  Shawn plans on going back to school for counseling or psychology.  “It’s my passion to service the community.”

And that’s a good thing for families dealing with autism.  That and the fact that Shawn has no intention of hanging up her fighting gloves any time soon.

For more information on the Autism Society of Nebraska, make a donation or sign up or become a sponsor for the April 28^th 2012 Autism Walk and 5K run, visit www.autismnebraska.org.

Omaha Family’s Annual Summer Camp Guide

Flowers are starting to wake up for spring. The days are getting longer, the nights shorter. Baseball is batting its way into a new season. Picnics are just around the corner at the local park. And in only a couple short months, kids will be getting out of school for the summer.

With the return of the sun and warmer days, thoughts often turn to summer plans—swimming pools, sports, vacations and that age-old tradition, summer camp. To help you make some plans for your summer campers, Omaha Family has rounded up some information on camps in the Omaha area. Let’s go do some exploring!

College of St. Mary

Summer FUN at College of Saint Mary

Explore a crime scene…work in a simulation lab…go on field trips…

CSM Summer Camps offer young women ages 12 – 16 the chance to make new friends, gain new skills and experience different professions. A full week of camp fun includes a camp T-shirt, sack lunch, drinks and snacks. Registration deadline is Monday, June 4, 2012. Go to www.csm.edu/camps to find out more and register.

• Monday, June 18 – Friday, June 22

CSI: CSM
How to solve a crime? One puzzle piece at a time! Practice fingerprint analysis, blood spatter and crime scene investigation.

• Monday, July 9 – Friday, July 13

Math in our World & It’s Easy being Green!
Experience the joys of math through art, origami and estimations.

Through cool projects and field trips, explore Mother Nature, learn about “green” living and see how you can help the environment.

• Monday, June 11 – Friday, June 15

FUN = Future Upcoming Nurses –OR- Future Upcoming Occupational Therapists
In the MORNING discover if you want to be a nurse or an occupational therapist.
Then spend the AFTERNOON at …
Savvy Science in Daily Lives
Experiment with ways to enhance our health and wellness using interactive   science activities.

ATHLETIC CAMPS & SWIMMING LESSONS
Soccer
Monday, June 4 – Wednesday, June 6
Grades 3-8 & 9-12

Basketball
Monday, June 4 – Wednesday, June 6
Grades 7-12 

Softball
Monday, June 11 – Wednesday, June 13
Grades 7-12 

Volleyball
Tuesday, June 19 – Wednesday, June 20
Grades 4-8 & 9-12

Kids Triathlon
Tuesday, July 10 – Friday, July 13
Grades 1-7

Swimming Lessons for ALL AGES!
Sign-up NOW!  Registration is due by May 28. Visit us at: http://www.csm.edu/camps for all the details!

CREATE

CREATE is super excited to announce our 2012 Summer Camp Program! We had a blast with our friends during camp last summer and throughout the school year, that we’ve worked hard to come up with some awesomely artsy topics! Check out some of these topics: 70′s Camp, Tie Dye Camp, Imagination Creation, Splash of Color plus more, including new versions of our most popular summer camps: Sewing Camp & BFF Camp! CREATE Camps will kick off the week of June 11 and run all summer long! Complete descriptions of each camp, including length, ages, and costs are located on our website www.inspireandcreate.com. Registration opens March 1 and space is limited. Please call CREATE to register!

DiVentures

Send your kids on an aquatic adventures this summer! DiVentures offers summer programs for a variety of ages and skill levels.

MINI MARATHON SWIM LESSONS (ages six months to 14 years)

Children retain more with consecutive lessons, making daily swim lessons perfect for summer! Mini Marathon classes meet Monday-Friday for a half hour and last two weeks. Class times are available between 8:30 and 11:00 am. Cost is $200 per swimmer.

AQUA RANGERS (ages 6-10 years)

This class includes four sessions and teaches kids swimming, water safety and snorkeling skills. Perfect for kids looking for water activities beyond swim lessons. Class meets from 1-3pm Tuesday-Friday. Cost is $175 per camper.

SCUBA RANGERS (ages 7-12 years)

Calling all adventure seekers! Kids will master fun aquatic challenges underwater while learning cool facts about the ocean and how to scuba dive in

this five day camp. Class meets from 1-3pm Monday-Friday Cost is $275 per camper. Summer camp spots are limited! Call now for dates and availability! Call 402.933.6251 or visit www.diventures.net.

Doodle Cakes/Rock Paradise

Doodle Cakes – Edible Art for Kids! Let your kids be a “Cake Boss” for a day! Edible art is a terrific activity for boys and girls! We have a variety of pastry decorating options including our most popular 2 Tier Cake Decorating! Our parties and classes include everything that is needed so there is nothing extra to buy! Your group can’t travel? No problem! We also have a special daycare/preschool program where we can travel to you. Ask about our Summer Camp options. Register for summer camp by June 1^st and save $25! For camp details see us on the web! Doodle Cakes also is a perfect add on for children’s activities at your wedding reception. Check out our website for details on birthdays, daycare programs, and end of year parties, summer camp and more at www.doodlecakes.com or call 402-697-8702. Rock Paradise – Rock Star Parties! Are you ready to PARTY ROCK? Love to sing and dance? Rock Paradise have the solution for you! Whether it is a birthday party, field trip outing or end of year event our ROCK STAR parties has a little something for everyone. Rock Paradise offers karaoke on our main stage with a full light show and several microphones to share with friends. Dance under the Disco ball to your favorite tunes! Ask about our Dance to the Past program and learn some oldies but goodies dance moves! NEW this year is our ROCKIN THE SUMMER camp program! See the web for details on ROCKIN THE SUMMER and other activities at Rock Paradise! Register for camp by June 1^st and save $25.00. See details on the web at www.rockparadiseomaha.com or call 402-697-8702.

Durham Museum

From Mindbender Puzzles to the Wild West, The Durham Museum’s

Summer Day Camps offer Something for Every Interest.

Starting to plan your summer days?  Be sure to look at the impressive summer days camps offered by The Durham  Museum.  Through its affiliation with the Smithsonian and close ties with the Library of Congress and National Archives, the museum offers an impressive array of camps for children age 5 to twelve.

The Durham’s featured camps this summer are based on the museum’s interactive exhibition, Mindbender Mansion from the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry. This exhibition full of brainteasers and interactive challenges guaranteed to test the brain power and problem solving skills of even the most experience puzzlers.  “The Mindbender Mansion camps provide a fun environment for children to learn about science and math,” said Mick Hale Director of Education at The Durham Museum.  “The camp is full of activities related to inventions, problem-solving, and collaboration.”

The Durham Museum is also bringing back a variety of popular camps covering topics such as theater, art, history, fitness, mysteries, the wild west and exploring Omaha.  “Each year, we are pleased to bring in top teachers from local school districts and to partner with several organizations such as the National Weather Service and Boys Town to work with us on our summer camp programs,” said Mick Hale.

The museum also offers before and after school care as well and lunch in the museum’s 1930’s Soda Fountain.  Visit durhammusuem.org or call (402)444-5027 for a full listing of camps and to register.

Fun Plex

At Fun Plex we constantly hear kids saying to their parents, “I don’t want to leave” or “Can we come back tomorrow”?  It was comments like these that led to the creation of Camp Fun Plex.The kids who have attended Camp Fun Plex have called it the ultimate day camp.  They have told us that it exceeded their every dream.  We believe that this is because Camp Fun Plex combines the best of the traditional camping experience: arts and crafts, scavenger hunts, field games, etc and the amazing rides and water park activities that can be found only at Nebraska’s biggest and best amusement park. Camp Fun Plex sessions run for 5 days, Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM during selected weeks throughout the summer for kids ages 6 to 13. The camp has an excellent counselor to camper ratio and all of our camp counselors are experienced, chosen for their love of children and are highly trained to cope with any possible situation. “Sign me up,” you say.  Well, all you have to do is call 402-331-8436 or visit our website at campfun-plex.com to have any questions answered or to register.

Fusion Dance

Fusion Dance has summer dance classes and camps for all ages. Princess Dance Camp is for girls ages 3-5 years old and will run from 9:00am- 11:30am. Diva Dance Camp is for girls ages 6-8 years old and will run from 12:00pm- 2:30pm. Both camps run from July 25th to July 28th. Summer classes for Ballet/ Tap combo, Jazz, Hip Hop, and Pom will begin June 6th. We are currently taking registration for camps and classes. Our classes run for 6 weeks with a week break during the week of July 4^th. For more details please visit our website at www.fusiondanceonline.com or call (402) 505-6755.  Come join our talented staff of choreographers and dance instructors for a summer filled with dance and laughter. Owner, Heidi Quandt, is a professionally trained dancer and has her Bachelor of Arts in Dance. She also is a certified member of Dance Masters of America and is a former Denver Nuggets Dancer. Fusion Dance is entering its 8th year at their location on the SW corner of 168^th and Harrison St. Come join the fun!

Kopecky Elementary School

Announcing the 2011 Medieval Times Summer Program! We have many exciting and stimulating activities for your child while they experience life in the Middle Ages. Your child can build castles through robotics, make and wear period costumes, study Medieval Times’ scientific advances and so much more! Accompanying this classroom content will be weekly field trips, guest speakers, swimming and arts and crafts. This program is for children that have completed kindergarten through the 5^th grade and will be run by veteran teachers. Our summer goals include facilitating each child’s development by maintaining and building current skills all while having lots of summer fun! Kopecky Elementary School is located off of 127^th & Pacific Street. Give your child the educational advantage while they explore summer fun! For more information, call (402) 393-1311 or visit our website: www.OmahaMontessori.com.

It’s Yours Pottery

WOW, do you believe it!?… Summer is just around the corner!  We at IT’S YOURS POTTERY are changing it up this year, offering a new and full line-up of summer of Art Exploration sessions for the kids!  This camp season will be totally theme based…  ‘In My Room’, ‘Peace Out’, ‘Summer Fun’, and ‘Holiday’s all Year Round’, offering a series of projects, using pottery painting, clay hand building, glass fusion, canvas painting and textile arts!  What an opportunity for your children to explore a number of different art mediums!  Pick and attend one, two, three or more sessions throughout the summer. All classes will be posted on our web site at WWW.ITSYOURSPOTTERY.COM. Individual (with family budgets in mind) priced classes, along with online registration for your convenience. Join us…make it a CREATIVE summer!

Legacy Primary School

CAMP LEGACY

Summer is always an adventure at CAMP LEGACY!   Campers may select from 11 outstanding week-long camp sessions this summer.  Join us for a week of camp, several camp sessions, or the entire summer!  2012 camps include Science Camps, Sports Camps, Exploration Camps, Animal Camps and Theater Camps.  All camp weeks include opening/flag raising ceremonies, arts & crafts, camp songs & skits, storytelling, team building, field trips (on site or off campus), hiking, sports, gardening, water fun, and more!  Special events consist of tie dying, treasure hunts, Minute To Win It, talent show, science fair, and karaoke.  Dedicated, well-trained camp counselors supervise camp groups.  Campers ages 3-6 may attend a mini camp (9:30-12:30) or full camp day (9:30-3:30).  K-6^th grade campers are able to register for a full day (9:30-3:30) of camp.  Before/after camp care is offered on site as well.  Camp Legacy is a small, well-regarded, popular camp located at Legacy Primary School (168^th & Blondo).  Registration begins mid-March.  For more information, please call (402) 884-2242 or visit us at www.legacyprimary.com.

Montessori Educational Centers

Walk through the land before time this summer and bring prehistoric legends to life!  Montessori Educational Centers presents DINOSAURS!  for elementary (grades 1 – 5) and preschool (age 3 – 6) children at convenient Omaha area locations with schedule options to fit your summer needs.   Your child will “bone up” on dinosaurs through hands-on activities, out-of-the-ordinary field trips, science experiments, and gain academic skills through the Montessori materials.  Our Montessori classrooms bring the world to your child through learning experiences that accommodate diverse interests and learning styles.

Elementary program highlights also include timelines of the Earth, learning about volcanoes, fossils and prehistoric sea creatures, robotics, imagination-stirring art projects, cooking, and swimming. The elementary program is located at 913 Leawood Drive, Omaha, NE  68154.

We have five locations throughout the Omaha area for preschoolers that feature everything your preschooler will want to know about dinosaurs!  Your child will enjoy “archeological digs”, studying small mammals, sea creatures and trees, basic measurement, music, creative movement, cooking experiences (i.e.  edible dinosaur bones), and of course, dinosaur arts and crafts.   There will be plenty of outdoor fun in our well-equipped play areas as well! For more information and enrollment, please call our administrative office at 402-393-1311.

Nebraska Humane Society’s Camp Kindness:  A Tail Waggin’ Good Time

If your kids are crazy about animals–the Nebraska Humane Society has a summer camp that is sure to please.  Camp Kindness allows children from ages 5 to 12 to experience the unconditional joy of bonding with animals, while learning life lessons about responsible pet ownership and the impact that animals have in our lives.  Highlights include picking a “kennel buddy”, tours of the surgical suite as veterinarians work, lessons from trainers on humane dog training, even bathing puppies! Wildlife experts present information on why domesticated animals make much better pets, and animal control experts give tips on dog bite safety. These camps are so much fun the kids don’t realize they’re learning. Camp Kindness runs in week-long, half-day sessions June through August. enroll your camper today, our registration is open! For information check our website at www.nehumanesociety.org  and click on programs and events; or call (402) 444-7800 ext 470.

Omaha Children’s Museum

Omaha Children’s Museum Summer Camps offer fun-filled days of learning and activity for kids. Focusing on everything from light sabers and dinosaurs to girls we love from books, there is something for every child’s interest. Every camp is taught by a museum educator, guaranteeing a top-notch experience. Online registration and details are available at www.ocm.org . Call (402) 342-6164 x. 410 or email groups@ocm.org to with questions.

Ages 4-5 Sid’s Science Camp

Learn all about science with hands-on projects inspired by Sid the Science Kid.

Ages 4-5 Get on the Dinosaur Train

Get ready for a week of dino-filled fun as kids become little paleontologists and spend time in the museum’s blockbuster exhibit, Dinosaurs: Dawn of the Ice Age!

Ages 4-5 Mini Girl Power

Celebrate our favorite girls in children’s literature including American Girl, Fancy Nancy, Pinkalicious, Junie B. Jones and Ramona Quimby as we play pretend, build literacy skills and get crafty.

Ages 4-5 May the Force Be With You

Designed especially for 4 and 5 year olds, this is a week of Jedi Training where kids will put math and science skills to work. Enjoy Star Wars Lego building, light saber training and building model space communities.

Ages 6-8 Girl Power

Celebrate our favorite girls in children’s literature including American Girl, Fancy Nancy, Pinkalicious, Junie B. Jones and Ramona Quimby as we play pretend, build literacy skills and get crafty.

Ages 6-8 The Amazing Race II

Set off on a journey around the world searching for clues to lead you to each destination each day. Geography will be more fun than ever before in The Amazing Race! This year’s camp features five new destinations!

Ages 6-8 May the Force Be With You II

Investigate robots, light sabers and space travel from our Alpha Lab Station on the Moon of Endor. Campers will create droids and build models of space communities to support life on new planets. Plus, this year campers will enjoy the new Jedi Training Pod and test their very own hovercraft.

Ages 6-8 Dinosaur Expedition

Campers will become Junior Paleontologists as they explore the blockbuster exhibit, Dinosaurs: Dawn of the Ice Age. Build science skills while unearthing fossils, creating and studying dinosaur environments.

Ages 6-8 Discovery Dome

Spend a week learning about the galaxy with experiments and time in the museum’s new Discovery Dome planetarium!

Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo^®

Summer is the ideal time for kids to explore and discover the things they are interested in doing.  As a parent I ask myself every spring “how do I give my children opportunities to explore and discover what they like to do?”  Omaha has a variety of organizations, like Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo^®, who offer many summer adventures and opportunities that will continue your child’s education year-round. As children grow, they gather experiences to develop their knowledge of the natural world and start forming personal interests and the path to their future.  If your child is interested in wildlife and nature, Omaha’s Zoo gives them the opportunity to foster their curiosity through a variety of hands-on, interactive classes and summer day camps.  When taking part in a day camp program at Omaha’s Zoo, children of all ages can explore animals and their natural habitats, interact with Zookeepers, conduct fun experiments and even spend the night in the Desert Dome. These unique experiences will help build your child’s understanding of the natural world and science. Expand your child’s arsenal of experiences and give them the opportunity to explore the many educational opportunities that Omaha’s Zoo offers.

Performer’s Edge Academy of Performing Arts is currently registering for our popular Musical Theatre Summer Camps.  These camps are an extension of our Performer’s Edge Academies designed to help students develop their skills in singing, dancing, and acting.  Our instructors are professional performers and educators, each with a mission to help students develop their unique talents, gain confidence and learn the joy of performing.  Each camp is a fun and fast week of learning, rehearsing, and polishing a musical performance for family and friends to come and enjoy!

Middle School Camp (2012-13 Grades 6-9)

“The Music of GLEE!”

Sing and dance to the great songs of Glee, with an original script designed for our middle-school campers. With choreography by award-winning show choir choreographer Melanie Walters, this show will be a hit with kids and audiences.

Learn a whole show in a week, with plenty of opportunities for solos and a chance to be in the spotlight! Enjoy an exciting week at Performer’s Edge – with “Glee!”   Register early – spots in this camp will go fast!  Camp runs 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM daily with the performance at 7:30 PM June 22.

Elementary School Camp (2012-13 Grades 3-5)

“Rats!”

Rats! The town of Hamelin is overrun with them and the citizens are in a tizzy until the mysterious Pied Piper appears, offering to solve their dilemma for a small fee. Sing, act and dance the story like never before in this fast-paced

musical setting.  Great characters!  High energy songs and dances!  Camp runs 9:00 am to 3:00 pm daily with the performance at 7:30 PM June 15.

PE Junior Camp (2012-13 Grades 1-2)

“Squirm”

Spiders! Snakes! Bats! Worms! Join the wiggles and squiggles as the Itsy Bitsy Spider, Daddy Long Legs, Hook Worm, Snake and a host of other critters take over the stage. But wait….just listen carefully to learn how things that make us squirm can really be “A-OK.”  Camp runs 10 AM to Noon daily with the performance at Noon on June 8.

Camps are open to everyone regardless of experience/ability, and we are conveniently located in west Omaha.  Call 933-1326 or visit us at  PerformersEdge.org for more information.

Phoenix Academy Day School
SUMMER SCHOOL PROGRAM

 For All Ability Levels

Summer School is a great way for all ability level students to retain what

they learn during the school year and get a jump start for next year.

Phoenix Academy’s summer school program will help your child stay current

and improve their reading, spelling and math skills.  Testing of

phonemic awareness, sight words, spelling, reading comprehension, and

fluency are included in the price of the summer school program.

Summer School Runs June 4th – June 29th

8:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Grades K – 8 – small class sizes

Intensive Reading, Writing, Spelling, & Math

Classes are for students grades K – 8 for the upcoming 2012-2013 school

year.  The Language Arts classes focus on reading comprehension, fluency,

phonemic awareness, spelling and writing.  Our explicit systematic research

based curriculum is effective for the struggling reader as well as the child

who reads above grade level.  It incorporates phonics which is also ideal

for the child just beginning to read.  Math classes focus on basic math

facts, story problems, and math concepts through pre -algebra. To register or

for more information, call 402-390-0556 or visit our website at

www.phoenixacademyomaha.org.  Register by April 25th for a $25 discount

 Phoenix Academy has moved to a new location – 1110 N. 66th Street

For 22 years we have been teaching children to read.

Ponca Hills Farm

Ponca Hills Farm Summer Day Camp is now in its 47^TH year of quality riding instruction at one of Omaha’s leading equestrian centers. In the quiet, scenic beauty of our 300 acre farm, campers learn the basics of English riding, as well as how to lead, groom and tack a horse.  Gentle, well-mannered horses and caring counselors combine to make this a camp that inspires confidence in young people.  Each camp session concludes with festive horse show and family picnic where children proudly demonstrate their new skills. Bring a camera, because the smiles are unforgettable!  Campers receive a commemorative t-shirt, horse show ribbons and recognition for special achievement.  Children aged 8 to 16 are welcome.  Campers need to bring a bag lunch and wear riding attire (belted long pants, heeled hard sole shoes, a tucked-in shirt and a helmet).  Session I runs from June 11- 29, Session II runs from July 9- 27.   Summer camp meets Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm for three weeks at a cost of $350.00.   For a great outdoor experience please call Ponca Hills Farm at 402-453-4000 or visit poncahillsfarm.com for more information.

Premier Gymnastics

Give your kid’s the FUN they want with the FLEXIBILITY you deserve!  Premier’s summer day camps (May 31st – August 5^th) are for boys and girls 5-12 years old. Camps have structured activities (sports, games, arts & crafts, gym play time, movies, and more) Monday-Friday from 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM.

· Full Week (40+  hrs./week)                      $150  (first child)        $125 (sibling rate)

· Less than 40 hrs./week                            $5.50/hr. (first child)    $5.00/hr. (sibling rate)

A $10 Premier Membership fee applies to each student who does not have a 2010-2011 Premier Membership.

Use the coupon in this issue to save $250 on one child and $375 on siblings when purchasing 10 weeks of ‘Full Week’ camp.

Rose Theater

The Rose Theater offers children ages 4 to 18 the highest quality arts education opportunities in the region.  With professional actor/educators instructing each class, children can learn acting, directing, playwriting, and musical theater from the same actors they see on stage performing in The Rose Theater’s season productions!  Summer day camps and classes are taught at three convenient locations – The Rose Theater, Zzzap Laser Adventures, and the Broadway Connection Dance Center – and offer children an opportunity to grow their skills, perform live on stage, and just have fun!  Sign up now to “Act in a Summer Play or Musical” or choose from one of our many weeklong drama adventures such as Harry Potter’s Hogwart Adventure, Create Your Own Play/Video, or Star Wars Jedi Knight Academy. Children looking for an overnight camp experience that combines their love of theater with the great outdoors will want to enroll in the Josh Brockington Theater Camp held at Platte River State Park.  For four nights and five days, campers will take part in theater games, improvisation workshops, and skit creation, while enjoying traditional camp activities such as swimming and hiking.

Classes and camps fill up quickly – so reserve your spot today!  Brochures are available at www.rosetheater.orgor call The Rose Box Office at 345-4849.

SkateDaze

Skate Daze, is gearing up for Summer Day Camp! This Program has been in operation for over 20 years! This special Summer Fun Camp is for children entering at least 1^st grade this fall. We offer great summertime supervised entertainment, games, and activities supervised by adults. Summer Day Camp will be open through the summer from 7am until 5:30pm Monday through Friday. Roller Skating is included from 1pm to 5pm. Other activities included are: Playdazium (the 3 story soft play structure that is bigger than a house), roller coaster, bumper cars, Best of Omaha laser tag, rock climbing, and more! Sack lunches may be brought in or have a hot lunch. Planned indoor activities and games such as movies, hockey, games, arts & crafts, coloring and more. Many fun filled activities will be held on the huge, air conditioned skating rink floor! Outdoor activities will include soccer, 4-square, kick ball, etc. Special Events Days such as Ambulance Day, Face Painting Day, Water Day, SkateDaze Olympics, and more, will take place throughout the summer. To register your child, you can call SkateDaze at (402) 333-3555, or stop by SkateDaze at 132^nd and B Street (located between Center and L Streets), Visit our website at www.SkateDaze.com.

Swimtastic

At Swimtastic Swim School, enjoy the 90° water, small classes and water slide while learning the life skill of swimming. For Summer, Swimtastic offers 2-week camps to accommodate your family’s busy schedule and to get a jump on lessons as you get ready for a summer spent at the pool, lake or waterpark. These camps run from May 29^th to August 17^th. The camps meet every weekday at the same time for two weeks, reinforcing the techniques and tips learned the previous day. In addition to the camps, Swimtastic also offers it regular, once-a-week lessons for the Spring and Summer. Spring lessons are a great lead in to the Summer months and Summer lessons ensure that kids continue to progress in their swimming ability. The Summer session is 12 weeks long from May 29^th  to August 18^th. Also, due to open registration utilized at Swimtastic, families with multiple children can usually have everyone in the pool at the same time taking lessons. Swimming lessons are a great way to give yourself peace of mind and your kids the confidence to enjoy various water activities over summer vacation. Call or stop by today for more information or register for classes. 496-SWIM or www.swimtastic.com

That Pottery Place

SUMMER ART CAMP 2012- That Pottery Place, located at 7828 Dodge St., offers an exploration of art projects for its Summer Art Camp.  To accommodate family budgets and schedules we are keeping our prices low and offering options this summer.  Our goal is to complete projects that will produce personal satisfaction within your child through creative expression. The children will be working with a variety of mediums. Mosaic madness is a creative class where the kids apply mosaic chips and gems in their own design to a photo frame or fun shaped plaque. Total muddy fun with instructions in hand building with wet clay, all clay projects are painted and fired. Lessons in layering colored glass which is then fused to create a sun catcher or nightlight.  Pottery painting is a fun and easy way to create personalized treasures. We provide the tools and the kids provide the creativity.  There are two types of schedules offered to fit your needs. Session 1 is every day for one week and Session 2 is once a week for six weeks. We also offer half sessions, early bird and sibling discounts. Call or check our web site for details. 402-392-1166 www.thatpotteryplaceomaha.com

YMCA of Greater Omaha

At the Y, we believe that all kids deserve the opportunity to discover who they are and what they can achieve. Through our programs, youth are cultivating the values, skills and relationships that lead to positive behaviors, better health and educational achievement. Register now for the Y’s Camp Pokamoke, Summer Fun Club and Teen Discovery.  Summer Fun Club is an all-day, state licensed child care program open to children ages 5-12 (Downtown and Sarpy YMCAs accept 4 year-olds). Activities are centered on weekly themes and include swimming, field trips, arts and crafts, fitness and much more. Camp Pokamoke is a 100-acre day camp in the Metro area with horses, a swimming pool, high and low ropes course, climbing wall, miles of trails, basketball/volleyball courts, and a live animal farm. The camp is open to youth ages 5-15 with rates $150-190 per week. Themes include horses, sports, science, mountain biking, archery, arts & crafts, and many more.  The camp also offers a Jr. Counselor program for youth ages 14-17. Teen Discovery combines learning with fun activities, including field trips, leadership training, swimming, service-learning projects and more. Participation varies by branch.  For more on these programs, visit www.metroymca.org.

Each weekend I go through the Sunday paper cutting out coupons and promising myself that the next week I will use them.  But my junk drawer is overflowing with expired, unused coupons and I cannot seem to get organized.  So I turn to LaQuela Weathers who I found out is not only a successful coupon diva and money saving queen, but also a giving member of the community.

LaQuela is a stay-at-home mom who considers coupon clipping just one of her many jobs.  She and her husband Brandon have four children and have been married for nine years.  LaQuela smiles as she recalls initially meeting her husband at work.  “I needed a place to sit, he offered his seat and after that his phone number, but I lost it,” she laughs.  “We met at work but the funny thing is that, through six degrees of separation, we found out that we grew up with the same friends.”

LaQuela as a stay-at-home mom is very busy not only with her family and coupon clipping but with running a Mom’s Group that she started.  “I was at home with a newborn, 1 year old and 2 year old (the oldest child was in school), I found out that I needed “mommy” friends,” she says.  “All of my family and church family worked so I found a free website and made flyers.”  LaQuela started Busy Little Hands and they now have over 170 active members.

Now in its fourth year, Busy Little Hands not only provides moms, dads and their children with play groups and field trips that are themed, fun and educational but they also provide service to the community.  Busy Little Hands visits senior living facilities to play games as well as make crafts with residents and they are involved with collecting donations for the Rainbow House.

“We also have a co-op so we do not have to pay for babysitters, we take care of each others kids,” says LaQuela.  “We take care of each other.  We believe it takes a village to raise a child and we are each others village!”  Busy Little Hands is open to all and anyone can join.

In addition to Busy Little Hands, LaQuela is also very active in her church, writes plays with her sister and is a mentor for a program that helps new and young moms in need of guidance, tips and moral support.  And then there is the couponing.  “I love it!” LaQuela says of couponing.  “I really, really love it!”

Saving money and smart shopping is almost a full time job but LaQuela is very organized, very methodical about how and what she buys.  “What I do is not like on the television show, that is unrealistic, I am a smart couponer.”  As a smart couponer LaQuela knows that she does not have to overload on products like on the television shows, resulting in an over abundance of product.  “Sales cycles repeat every twelve weeks, they are seasonal.  I get things to last three to four months, any more than that is too much.”

Initially, LaQuela began by using a coupon here and there until she realized just how much money she could save. In one month, as an example, LaQuela spent $200 out of pocket for groceries that totaled over $3,100.  That is groceries and house supplies for a family of six people.  “I wanted to save money and get free stuff.  So I started to look at how to do that, I would go to YouTube and read blogs, I self-taught myself how to do this.”

To start out her week of big savings, LaQuela begins with the Sunday newspaper’s coupon sections.  She says it is important to have one coupon for each family member, in her case six, for the product that she is looking to save on.  She also uses the weekly Food Express as it has the same coupons as the Sunday paper.  LaQuela will ask her family, friends and neighbors for their coupons and will also let her newspaper delivery person know that she will take any left over papers.  “You just have to ask, don’t be embarrassed!”

Next, LaQuela will check in-store sales.  For example, if she has a $1 off coupon for a razor that costs $5 and a particular store has on sale for $2 off, she pays $2 for a $5 razor.  LaQuela also knows what stores have stackable coupons so that she may be able to get the $5 razor for free.

LaQuela will also scour store websites for on-line and printable coupons.  Add to these the papers coupons and the savings really start to add up.  And while on-line, LaQuela will go to a site of a favorite product and comment on how much she likes it, supplying her email and then she waits for the coupons to arrive.  “Don’t request a coupon, just say how much you like their product and they will send the coupon right to your email.”

There are days when her shopping will take her to a few different stores but if planned properly what LaQuela spends in time will be made up in dollar savings.  “If you go to Target’s website you can see what will be on sale a few weeks in advance.  So then I will know just how many coupons I will need and then get extra newspapers,” she says.  “Target is also a store that will match other stores advertised deals.”

Stores that LaQuela likes to shop at because they stack coupons, match other stores offers and provide extra incentives are Target, CVS, Walgreens and No Frills.  She has become familiar with their selling cycles so she knows when she needs to stock up.  And LaQuela does not just buy for her own family.  If she sees a great deal on diapers or baby formula she will pick up as many as she can and donate them.  She will also pick up treats and craft supplies that Busy Little Hands can put together and take to the senior centers and Rainbow house.  LaQuela loves sharing her items with family and friends as well.

LaQuela knows that initially couponing and saving can be a little overwhelming.  She suggests starting with one store.  Visit their website and like them on FaceBook, become familiar with their cycles and how they match other stores coupons.  She guarantees that it will not take long to master other stores and soon you will see big savings.  “You are not going to build your stockpile over night, take it slow.  It will happen.”

LaQuela’s blog offers help in the way of tips, sales alerts and scenarios to help beginners and the more experienced smart couponer.  LaQuela will also take a photo at a store of a great deal and post on her blog.   And she will answer questions as well as schedule times to come and talk to church groups, other moms clubs and various organizations who want her as a speaker on couponing.  LaQuela is also excited about her new coupon parties that are in-home.  Here, party hostesses and their guests learn about couponing in a fun and festive atmosphere.

After visiting with LaQuela, she has inspired me to clean out my coupon junk drawer.  With her easy to follow guidelines I too am determined to become a coupon diva and money saving queen.  Visit www.meetup.com/blhplaygroup for more details on Busy Little Hands and www.facebook.com/smartcouponers or smart-http://couponers.bolgspot.com/ for LaQuela’s blog.

The SmartSeat Chair Protector is a waterproof, stain resistant, and machine washable seat cover for upholstered dining room and kitchen chairs.  It protects like a vinyl seat cover, but is made from a soft and comfortable fabric.  Adjustable straps allow for easy on/off and a flexible fit that accommodates most sizes and styles of chairs, including those with solid backs. The SmartSeat is the ideal way to discreetly protect your chairs from stains, spills, and everyday wear and tear. For more information, visit www.smartseatchairdiningcovers.com.

Couture Clip Luxe Binkie

A pacifier clip where function meets fashion. Couture Clip luxe binkie holder is designed in cashmere, organic pointelle cotton, faux suede and perforated lambskin leather. Each clip has an orgainc cotton herringbone loop to fit any pacifier and a lead free clasp with protective coating. Couture Clip donates a percentage of sales to First Candle, a nonprofit health organization working to create stillbirth awareness. For more information, visit http://couturecliplbh.bigcartel.com.

Potty Tots

Potty Tots® offers comprehensive, child-centered potty training products and online resources. The company focuses on the need for a fun, stress-free potty training experience by using a group of ethnically diverse preschool characters who engage children in singing and dancing their way through the six steps of potty training. Most of all, the Potty Tots Program is the most FUN children will have when potty training! Their motto is based on the common little toddler phrase, “I can do it, all by myself!” By encouraging this independence, children build confidence and self esteem. The interactive program features the adorable Potty Tots that sing and dance to teach the six steps of potty training. The Potty Tots Training Kit includes: A story/guide book, animated DVD featuring 3 original potty tots songs and 2 bonus music videos, an 11×17 illustrated potty chart, and an 11×17 progress reward/game. Parents and tots can visit pottytots.com to play games and print out coloring pages. Once tots master going to the potty, he/she can join the Potty Tots Crew and print out a personalized diploma!

Orango Fresh

As parents, you strive to provide your children with the best that life has to offer. Some of the best ingredients are made by nature. That’s why OrangoFresh products contain natural ingredients like beeswax, cocoa butter, coconut oil, essential oils, just to name a few. Other ingredients we use are organic and even certified vegan. Our products are free of harmful chemicals like Parabens (e.g. Methyl-, Propyl-, Ethyl-, Butyl-) and Phthalates found in mass produced personal care products and cosmetics. And, as always, our products are never tested on animals. It all started with two parents with two very active kids. From gymnastics and football to just playing hard outside these kids worked up a sweat. After reading the long list of ingredients on regular deodorant labels and becoming concerned about the harsh chemicals, they decided the only safe way to get them smelling good was to do it themselves. After months of testing on their kids and getting feedback they developed OrangoFresh deodorant. It was mild, worked great and the kids loved it! The company DANDA Naturals, Inc. was formed shortly thereafter to produce the deodorant as well as lip balm for kids, all with  simple, effective and natural ingredients. For more information, visit www.orangofresh.com.

Celebrate the opening of Nebraska’s 1st full service pet loss center. Specializing in your pet’s aftercare and your family’s needs. Helping You to Mourn, Memorialize and Pay tribute. Event takes place on Saturday April 28th from 10:00 a.m.- 2:00 p.m. at 11718 West Dodge Road. For more information, call 402-507-0585.

Are temper tantrums and the “terrible twos” a necessity – or can you avoid this stage with your toddler? According to Dr. Greg Severson, pediatrician with Methodist Physicians Clinic HealthWest, the terrible twos may be inevitable, but there are things parents can do to minimize the meltdowns.

“As children become more mobile they learn they can have significant effects on objects and other people. This new mobility means young children can suddenly find themselves in areas previously “off-limits” and hearing “no” for potentially the first time,” says Dr. Severson.

He offers these tips to help reduce the frequency and emotion associated with those tantrums:

1. Ignore behavior you don’t want.
If you can safely ignore something your toddler is doing that is undesirable, you will avoid giving him the attention he craves.

2. Avoid situations that will cause a problem.
Knowing your toddler is able to get into areas, remove dangers like cords, cover outlets and put breakable objects away.

3. Distract the toddler.
When a child is doing something unacceptable, try redirecting him/her before disciplining, by saying things like: “where is your ball, pet, favorite person, etc.?”

ParentSavvy experts answer questions submitted by readers – like you!
Read more about toddler discipline , or submit a question of your own.

Knowing there can be gynecologic issues specific to teens, the Methodist Physicians Clinic Women’s Center recently opened Omaha’s first adolescent gynecologic clinic.

Located at the 192^nd and Dodge Street campus (adjacent to the Methodist Women’s Hospital) the team of experts stands ready to answer questions in a positive, comfortable setting.

Tifany Somer-Shely, M.D. and OB/GYN at the Women’s Center, says the idea of a clinic was sparked after the number of referrals by pediatricians seeking help for patients dealing with concerning adolescent issues.

“We had physicians asking for guidance on menstrual abnormalities, early puberty issues, congenital anomalies, etc.,” Somer-Shely said. “The more patients that kept coming our way made us realize that if we were going to be a center of excellence we needed to provide this kind of care and service.”

So Dr. Somer-Shely and others went to work.

They began exploring adolescent clinics around the country and quickly set their sites on Seattle Children’s, a health care facility that offers specialized adolescent care. A visit to the facility quickly convinced Dr. Somer-Shely and her colleagues this was an offering needed in the Omaha metro area.

Every Monday afternoon Suite 1100 is transitioned from an adult OB/GYN clinic into a more adolescent-friendly environment.

The magazine selection becomes more teen friendly, signage changes are made to fit the interests of younger patients and exam room modifications are made.

“We really strive to make the area as welcoming as we can for the young women who come to our clinic,” Somer-Shely said. “It’s not just the physical changes we make, but our staff and the way we work with the patients changes as well.”

The hour-long appointment begins with an information gathering process by one of two nurse practitioners who assist with the clinic. After this initial introduction, one of physicians on staff will meet with the patient and parent to continue the information gathering phase.

After a brief period of time, the parent will be asked to leave the room for more private discussions with the patient. Making sure patients are at ease is further demonstrated by the fact a physical exam may not happen until a patient has been to the clinic two or three times.

“We do take a very detailed history, based off a more adolescent-focused questionnaire,” Dr. Somer-Shely said. “We really focus on the young patient and work very hard at making them feel welcome. What we are finding is that many girls come in with one concern, and because of the amount of time we spend simply talking with them, we discover other problems that might be related or unrelated to that condition.”

Somer-Shely said the young girls coming to the clinic are experiencing menstrual problems, ovarian cysts, pelvic pain, congenital anomalies, genital injuries and pelvic infections.

“When we opened the clinic we kind of expected to see younger girls, but the age group that has been very high are those girls between 12 and 17,” Dr. Somer-Shely said. “We have girls coming to us with menstrual problems, body image issues, girls that are acting out and engaging in risky behaviors and those with questions regarding contraception.”

Somer-Shely credits the adolescent environment allowed some patients, struggling with gender concerns, to come forward

“We expected much of what we have seen with our patients, but we didn’t expect to see patients with gender identity issues,” she said. “But because of our clinic and the way we work with our patients, we think we made those patients feel comfortable with what they were facing.”

Somer-Shely also stated that because of the large number of services available at the Women’s Center additional resources are available for patients who need other services.

Joining Somer-Shely on the clinic staff are OB/GYN physicians Carolee Jones, Judith Scott and Susan Westcott. They are assisted by nurse practitioners Janice Lunn and Heidi Lefler.

“Our team approach is very important,” Dr. Somer-Shely said. “We truly cater to the patient’s needs. We don’t treat them like a kid, but we don’t treat them like an adult either. We treat them like the young teen that they are.”

Currently, the clinic is open every Monday afternoon from 1 to 5 p.m. Parents can call for appointments or patients can be referred by their health care provider. As demand for appointments continues to increase, expanded days and hours may be offered.

“We see our clinic growing because of the high demand we already have for appointment times,” Somer-Shely said. “Eventually we hope to have our own space and add to our team of experts.”

For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call (402) 815-1991. You can also visit http://www.mpcobgyn.com/services/adolescent-gyn-services/