How OKN was born

My photo
O'Hana Kids' News was started by Josh & Heather Ackman, when they were looking for events & activities for their son, Zephaniah, to participate in. Zephaniah, is in a wheelchair, due to his terminal condition of Menkes Syndrome. O'Hana Kids' News was founded in June 2010, when the Ackmans realized that many families were looking for the same information for their children.

Eastern Nebraska Not Updated

Lincoln Family Information

Looking to start Therapy Group for Preschoolers ages 3-4
LOCATION: Williamsburg Behavioral Psychology, 3801 Union Dr., Suite 206,
(Just south of the Hy-Vee at 40th & Old Cheney), LINCOLN

MORE INFORMATION:: Call 402-489-2218, to get your name on the list
DESCRIPTION: Dr. Anne Tapley is looking to form a therapy group for Preschoolers ages 3-4,
who are on the Spectrum. If you are looking for something like this, please call the number
above to get your child's name on the list of interested families. If you need more information
please call Dr. Tapley's office to leave her a message.



Research Study Opportunity!!!

LOCATION: Alexis Verzal Children’s Rehabilitation Hospital, Madonna, 5401 South Street, LINCOLN

MORE INFORMATION:  Nadine Wiley at 402-413-4504 or nwiley@madonna.org
DESCRIPTION: We are looking to develop a Miniature Motorized Elliptical for Children. The purpose of this study is to make a Mini Elliptical Exercise Machine to help children with disabilities and chronic conditions, work on walking and improving fitness.  After using the elliptical, your child will provide ideas on how to improve it for children.  To be eligible for the study, children can be between ages 3 and 12, who can respond to simple instructions.  Children with or without disabilities are welcome!  You and your child will attend up to 3 sessions, not expected to last more than 2                          
hours each.  Activities include: Evaluating your child’s ability to walk and exercise; Measuring your child’s height and weight; and using the mini elliptical and sharing ideas to make it better!

What is Early Head Start?
Early Head Start (EHS) is a federally funded comprehensive child development program offered by Community Action. EHS serves low income pregnant women, children ages birth  to three (including children with special needs) and their families.  Through EHS, we aim to help children to grow physically and socially while empowering families to move toward self-sufficiency, and get children ready to go to kindergarten.  Our EHS Home-based program offers the opportunity to have a Family Advocate work with you and your child within the comfort of your own home for 90 minutes a week.  You and your child will benefit from one-on-one attention from your Family Advocate.  Home Visits: The main focus of a home visit is your child’s growth and development.  A Family Advocate will visit  your home for 90 minutes a week, and work with you and your child.  During each visit you and your child will have the opportunity to enjoy an activity or experience together.  Playgroups: Playgroups are organized playtimes for you and  your child to get to meet other children and parents in the EHS program.  This is a great opportunity to share experiences and learn from others in the program  just like you.  EHS Family Advocates are trained to not only provide fun ways for you to help your child learn and grow, they can also help  put you in touch with community resources to help you meet your day-to-day needs, and help you provide  positive opportunities for your family and your child.  Call Community Action at 402-875-9385 to schedule a time to fill out an application.



Villa Marie Home and School for Exceptional Children
Villa Marie Home and School for Exceptional Children provides a loving, home-like atmosphere for up to 22 children, both day students and boarders.  Students enjoy comfortable dormitories (4 students to a room), excellent recreational facilities, a chapel and spacious grounds.  The Villa Marie staff provides total 24 hour-a-day supervision.  Villa Marie follows the Lincoln Diocesan Catholic School calendar.  The school has 3 well-equipped classrooms, a library, up-to-date computers, a Smart Board in each classroom and a variety of audio/visual aids.  Villa Marie is approved by the Nebraska Department of Education and all teachers are certified in Special Education.  The developmental program at Villa Marie works towards preparing students to function effectively in social situations, to live independently, & to use their skills in productive employment.  Specific areas of development include social and emotional development, vocational training, appearance, health and hygiene, and community involvement.  Requirements for attendance are:  Children with special needs between the ages of 7 & 18 but no students older than 16 will be accepted as new students, Students must be on an Individual Education Plan (I.E.P. & not require one-on-one paraprofessionals, Three step process for entrance (1. Parent interview, 2. Student visit during school, 3. Application for entrance including tuition negotiation)  For More Information on Villa Marie Home and School Contact Sister Peggy Kucera, Principal at 402-786-3625 or sr.peggy-kucera@villamarie.org


Lincoln Ongoing Events

Yoga for the Special Child
10 weeks to teens
LOCATION: Lincoln Yoga Center, 2127 Winthrop Rd, Lincoln

COST: $60 per hour class, $30 per 1/2 hour, 
CONTACT INFO: Debbie Buck ~ 402-480-0685debbiebuck@hotmail.com
TIME: call or email for appointment
DESCRIPTION: Yoga for the Special Child is a comprehensive program of yoga techniques designed to enhance the natural development of children, ages 10 weeks to teens, with special needs.  An integrated series of balanced yoga poses are used to increase body awareness, strength, and flexibility.  Specialized breathing exercises and relaxation techniques are used to improve concentration and reduce hyperactivity.  


Swimming Lessons for Kids with Special Needs through 
Madonna ProActive in LINCOLN
LOCATION: Madonna ProActive, 7111 Stephanie Lane, (55th & Pine Lake Road), LINCOLN
COST: Call but you can purchase at front desk
MORE INFORMATION: Call 402-486-7791
DESCRIPTION: Madonna ProActive offers both Private and Semi-Private Swim Lessons. All
lessons are approximately 30 minutes in length. Private and Semi-Private Instruction clients
will be matched with an instructor who best meets the needs of the individual or small group.
O'Hana Kids News recommends Kale Juergena, swim instructor!


Swimming Lessons for Kids with Special Needs 

through Lincoln Racquet Club
LOCATION: Lincoln Racquet Club, (56th & Hwy 2), LINCOLN

COST: Non-members is $24/30 min session; Members are $18/30 min session
MORE INFORMATION: Call 402-423-2511
DESCRIPTION: Lincoln Racquet Club offers several swim instructors who have worked with
children with a variety of special needs. If you have a child who loves the water, or if you have a
child with a special need that you believe the water would benefit, you need to call Lincoln
Racquet Club today!! Your child will benefit from the experience that these instructors have.

 

Psychological & Emotional Regulation Training for Kids of ALL Ages with Anxiety, Aggression and Depression
LOCATION: Williamsburg Behavioral Psychology, 3801 Union Dr., Ste. 206,
(Just south of Hy-Vee at 40th & Old Cheney), LINCOLN, NE

TIME: Usually late afternoon or early evenings, call for specifics
COST: Billed through insurance
MORE INFORMATION: Call 402-489-2218
DESCRIPTION: There are ongoing groups for children with anxiety, aggression and depression, for young boys, young girls, teen boys, teen girls and adults. Call to schedule a session with one of our providers, to enable us to place your child in the appropriate group that is best for them.





Conservatory of Contemporary Dance, Every Monday
For Kids with Special Needs
LOCATION: 2701 O Street, LINCOLN
TIME: 6:30 – 7:30 pm
COST: First session FREE, Registration Fee FREE, $20 1st month, $45 every month after
MORE INFO:  Contact Monya DeBoer at 402-405-6470 or ccdance@gmail.com
DESCRIPTION: Dance class of various studies, for ALL AGES from 3 & up!  Come make friends, & have fun learning about dance.  This class is open to BOYS & GIRLS!!

Art Planet, Art Classes, Every Tuesday & Wednesday
For Kids with Special needs, grades K - 9
LOCATION: Art & Soul "tucked away in a quiet neighborhood in SE Lincoln, the new Art Planet home studio is 
located just off Deerwood Drive in Colonial Hills.", LINCOLN
COST: $60 a month, siblings half price
TIME:  Tuesday, 5:30 – 6:15 pm Grades 4th – 6th; Tuesday 6:30 – 7:30 pm Grades 7th  – 9th
         Wednesday 4:00 – 4:45 pm Grades K – 3rd
          Wednesday 5:00 – 6:00 pm Grades 6th – 8th
MORE INFO:  Contact Tamara Weber at 402-610-2295 or hello@artplanetlincoln.com
DESCRIPTION: AP Studio is where kids with special needs get to attend an art class designed uniquely for them!  Qualified instruction will be provided in a small group setting as we explore & expand each student’s skill level.  Come meet new friends while creating with paint, clay, pencils & most of your imagination! Students with Asperger’s & High Functioning Autism are encouraged to register for their spot in a class made just for them Dreams Unlimited has Tuition Assistance available for Art Planet – contact information is listed under Resources for Families in Back!!

Cheer & Dance Express Classes – for Kids with Special Needs Ages 4-25 NEW CLASS!!!
LOCATION: 4001 S. 8th Street, LINCOLN, NE
TIME: Sunshine Little Rays Team (ages 4-10) Tuesdays 7 – 7:45 pm NEW TEAM!!!
Sunshine Team (ages 11 – 25) Thursdays 7:30 pm – 8:30 pm
MORE INFORMATION : 402-489-5111 and www.cheeranddanceexpress.com

DESCRIPTION: Cheer & Dance offers TWO classes for special needs children. The Sunshine team has won many awards and always receive a standing ovation! They have performed at numerous competitions and shows throughout the Omaha and Lincoln area. The students learn cheers, jumping, jumping on trampolines, stunts and much more!! This team has made a huge impact on the kids’ self-esteem and confidence!


Kindermusik Sign & Sing: Sign Language Class
INTENDED AUDIENCE: Kids ages 6 months to 3 years

LOCATION: 1111 Old Cheney, LINCOLN
REGISTRATION: To register, go to www.kindermusik.com 

QUESTIONS: Call Shawna Gordon at 402-770-1486
DESCRIPTION: Early on a child has an innate desire to communicate. He reaches up to be held, claps when he’s happy, turns away when he is full. That’s why learning sign language makes so much sense in a hearing child’s world. Using his hands, he can say what he means & a parent can understand what he needs. This program is developed by Signing Smart.



Ager Play Center 9 week Session
For Children with Special Needs ages 6 mo. - 5 yrs

LOCATION: 1300 South 27th Street, LINCOLN, NE

TIME: 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
SESSIONS: September 4 to October 30

COST: $72 per session/family *Scholarships are available
RSVP & QUESTIONS: Contact the Therapeutic Recreation Team for more information and to request an application. Go to agertr@lincoln.ne.gov or 402-441-7901, 402-441-8666 
DESCRIPTION: The Developmental Play Program has been specifically designed for families of very young children with special needs. We offer: A safe, family friendly environment, structured activities, opportunities to interact with other parents, professional presentations, adaptive toys to accommodate children of all abilities, trained staff and volunteers, an opportunity for siblings to play together and a special time to PLAY with your child!
Dreams Unlimited Has Funding available for Cost Assist for Ager Play Center –See Info in r Resources for Families


Easterday Recreation Center Adaptive Recreation Programs for Youth
LOCATED: 6130 Adams Street, LINCOLN




Fun Club
For Grade School
January 22 to April 30
5:15 pm to 6:30 pm
Club Only is $17.50, Club plus transportation is $73.50
Call Debra at 402-441-7901 or dwilliams@lincoln.ne.gov 

Hi-Time Club
Jr High to High School through age 21
January 21 to April 29
7:00 – 8:30 pm
Club Only is $17.50, Club plus transportation is $73.50
Call Monica at 402-441-7948 or mmanning@lincoln.ne.gov




Lincoln Park & Recreation Lincoln Shooting Stars Special Olympic Team
LOCATED: LINCOLN



With competition in Basketball, Bocce, Bowling, Flag Football, Golf,

Roller Skating, Swimming, Track & Field and Volleyball.

Our team is open to kids ages 8 and up.

For More Information:
Kerry Zingg at 402-441-7877 or kzingg@lincoln.ne.gov
Debra Williams at 402-441-7901 or dwilliams@lincoln.ne.gov

BOWLING: 2 LOCATIONS for Practice
LOCATION: Sun Valley Lanes, (321 Victory Lane) LINCOLN
DATES: Fridays, September 14 – December 14
TIME: 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm
COST: $2.50 per game
No bowling 10/2, 11/2 or 11/23
Limited Lanes Available – MUST PRE REGISTER

LOCATION: Parkway Lanes, 2555 S. 48th St., LINCOLN
DATES: Saturdays, September 15 – December 15
TIME: 11:30 am – 1:30 pm OR 1:30 pm – 3:30 pm
COST: $7 per week (3 games)
No bowling 11/24

Watch for Swimming, Track & Field and Unified Basketball
Locations, Dates and Times TBD!!


The Young Athletes Program is an innovative sports play program for children ages 2 – 7 with intellectual disabilities, designed to introduce them to the world of sports prior to Special Olympics eligibility at age 8.  Children learn the basics of running, jumping, throwing, catching, striking and kicking through guided activities.  Siblings and friends are encouraged to register and participate.


Special Olympics Young Athletes Program Winter 2013

LOCATION: Easterday Recreation Center, 6130 Adams St., LINCOLN

DATES: Saturdays, January 19th through March 16

(No Program on February 16)

TIME: 10:15am – 10:45am

COST: FREE



 

Lincoln DECEMBER Events:



December 1
Switch Making & Other Toy Modifications
For Any family
LOCATION:  Handprints & Footsteps, 5930 Vandervoort Dr., Suite A, LINCOLN
TIME: 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm on  Nov. 8 (2:00 pm to 4:00 pm on Dec. 1)
COST: $10 per family plus cost of supplies (varies from $5 to $15)
REGISTRATION: Call Mary Hagood at 402-420-2099 or sign up at the front desk at Handprints & Footsteps Pediatric Therapy
MORE INFORMATION: Chrissy Scheer, PT at 402-420-2099 or cscheer@hpnfs.com
DECRIPTION:   Part of the new program at Handprints and Footsteps, switch making and other toy modifications with Chrissy Scheer, PT.  Come join us for a hands-on time of learning how to create switches and modify toys to use in your home for just a little bit of money!  Feel free to bring battery operated toys/appliances/lights/massagers, etc. that you want to adapt (ones that have a simple on/off feature . . . or single button work best)  See you there!

December 3 & 17
Pediatric Parent Support Group: Every 1st & 3rd Monday of the Month
This support group is for parents, with children, who have acquired injuries.
LOCATION: Alexis Verzal Children’s Rehabilitation Hospital,
              Lower Level of Madonna Hospital, 5401 South St., LINCOLN
               At Madonna: Enter through the main entrance of the AVCRH
TIME: 6:30 – 7:30 pm
MORE INFO: Contact Michelle at 402-499-4227 or mhawleyg@windstream.net or
Amy Nordness at 402_483-9697
DESCRIPTION: December 3: We will be having a speaker about Healthy Sleep for Parents and Children, her name is Tori Van Dyk, she is a Neuropsychologist that specializes in sleep.  December 17: We will be decorating ornaments (supplies are provided)!!  This support group is now lead by a parent, Michelle. Come & expand your knowledge,  while gaining insights & encouragement from other parents.  This group is open to inpatient families also, just let us know so we can monitor your child while you are at group.

December 4 & 18
      Bowling Night: For ANYONE with a Disability (1st & 3rd Tuesday Monthly)
For Individuals with a disability of any kind
LOCATION: Parkway Lanes, 2555 South 48th St., LINCOLN
TIME: 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm
COST: $5.00 to bowl, $3.00 for shoe rental
MORE INFO: Call Rick Haith at 402-413-3722
REGISTRATION: Call Rick IN ADVANCE by the FRIDAY before!!!
DESCRIPTION:  Participants are responsible for their own transportation, and if they require any assistance, please have a caregiver or family member there to help them.  People of ALL ages and abilities are encouraged to come in from the cold this winter and bowl with us!!  Adaptive equipment such as bowling ramps, lightweight bowling balls, or bowling balls with handles will be available on site!! Of course use of the bumper lanes is always an option too!!

December 8
      Reel Movies for Real Needs with Marcus Theaters * Rise of the Guardians
For Individuals with special needs & their immediate family
LOCATION: Lincoln Grand, 1101 P Street, LINCOLN
TIME: 10:30 am
MORE INFO: www.marcustheaters.com  or 402-441-0222
DESCRIPTION:  Reel Movies for Real Needs offers movies with the sound turned down, lights turned up a bit, for all those families & kiddos who are touched by special needs.  Come join us as we see a 1st run movie that is just out, in comfort.  Knowing our children will have fun & so will we!!!

December 9 & 19
MFLC Days
For Military Families
LOCATION:  Air Guard, LINCOLN
TIME: 9:00 am to 1:00 pm
MORE INFORMATION: Contact Renee Duffek at 402-219-2446 or renee.L.duffek@ahsg.us Or Barb Shupe at Barbara.e.shupe@ahsg.us
DECRIPTION:   MFLC Consultation services are provided at no charge, with no records kept.  Eligible individuals include military service members & their significant others (children & adults), whether legally related or not.  This is a short term solution focused consultation, not psychotherapy.  If possible please call ahead to schedule an appointment.  You can schedule on a different date if the one listed doesn’t work.
 

December 8
Family Art Dayz at The Planet --- Gingerbread Houses
All Families with a child who has a disability of any kind
LOCATION: Art & Soul "tucked away in a quiet neighborhood in SE Lincoln, the new Art Planet home studio is 
located just off Deerwood Drive in Colonial Hills.", LINCOLN
TIME: Saturday from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm & Sunday 2:00 – 4:00 pm  
COST: $15 for first student & $5 for each additional sibling
REGISTRATION: http://artplanetlincoln.com/index.php/register1/ to reserve your spot !!
MORE INFO: Contact Tamara Weber at 402-610-2295 or hello@artplanetlincoln.com
DESCRIPTION: Need a cozy abode for your gingerbread man or woman? Come to Art Planet to make a cottage that is Home Sweet Home!  Families can drip, stick squeeze and splatter their new home any way they wish!!  Family Art Dayz is a hands on art workshop where students can participate in the art project of the day!  Art Planet will provide the project, the inspiration, the assistance & all the supplies to make art that is creative & FUN!! Students are encouraged to bring their entire family!  Sign up for the day you want to come, plan to spend 45 minutes at the most on your project.  We plan on having a wonderful time! Come join us!

December 17 & 3
Pediatric Parent Support Group: Every 1st & 3rd Monday of the Month
This support group is for parents, with children, who have acquired injuries.
LOCATION: Alexis Verzal Children’s Rehabilitation Hospital,
              Lower Level of Madonna Hospital, 5401 South St., LINCOLN
               At Madonna: Enter through the main entrance of the AVCRH
TIME: 6:30 – 7:30 pm
MORE INFO: Contact Michelle at 402-499-4227 or mhawleyg@windstream.net or
Amy Nordness at 402_483-9697
DESCRIPTION: December 3: We will be having a speaker about Healthy Sleep for Parents and Children, her name is Tori Van Dyk, she is a Neuropsychologist that specializes in sleep.  December 17: We will be decorating ornaments (supplies are provided)!!  This support group is now lead by a parent, Michelle. Come & expand your knowledge,  while gaining insights & encouragement from other parents.  This group is open to inpatient families also, just let us know so we can monitor your child while you are at group. 






Lincoln UPCOMING Events:



February 6 through March 13
Dancing Beyond Limits: An Introduction to Wheelchair Dance
This is for dancers of ALL abilities, ages 5 to 18, IF they use a Wheelchair, or other Assistive Mobility Device such as a walker or gait trainer
LOCATION: Madonna ProActive, 56th & Pine Lake, LINCOLN
TIME: 6:45 pm to 7:45 pm Every Thursday
COST: $10
MORE INFO: Contact Suzanne Wing Dougherty at 402-420-2099 or sdougherty@hpnfs.com
DESCRIPTION:  “Rockin and Rollin” Participants will roll to Rock N’ Roll tunes learning various styles      of dance including ballet, hip hop & jazz.  Dancers can be independent or dependent in propulsion using a manual or power wheelchair.  Attendance is strongly encouraged as students will be learning a dance routine to perform for family & friends at the end of the session.  The instructor Suzanne, is a Physical Therapist at Handprints and Footsteps & also shares a love of dance.  She brings more
than 8 years of experience as a dance instructor & coach.  Stephanie Chase of ProActive will also be serving as an instructor for the class.  Many other therapists & dance instructors will be volunteering to assist with each class!  Come join us!!