'hood Magazine March 2026 by 'hood Magazine

FUN CRUISE

Saturday, May 30th 9am-2pm

Inquire today!

Get ready for family fun this May! Local families will be cruising the Sioux Empire and visiting local businesses to take part in fun activities and, of course, win prizes! Fancy the Unicorn is back! She’s excited to spread her rainbow unicorn joy all through the community leading up to the Familyfest Fun Cruise!

more info at thehoodmagazine.com or email: admin@thehoodmagazine.com

Summer is Here Soon!

As a local mom, I know how quickly summer can sneak up on us. One minute, school is wrapping up, and the next, we’re wondering how to keep our kids engaged, active, and learning once the classroom doors close. That’s exactly why I’m so excited to share our 2026 Summer Camp Guide.

This issue is packed with 30+ local summer camps, each offering something unique—whether your child loves sports, the outdoors, animals, creativity, or STEAM-based learning. With so many great options, choosing the right camp can feel overwhelming, but this guide is designed to help you find the perfect fit for your child’s interests and personality. And if summer still feels far away, don’t worry, we’ll also be featuring all of these camps on our website, plus additional information about each one!

You’ll also find a full page dedicated to summer job opportunities, perfect for teens—or even adults—looking to stay busy, gain experience, and earn extra income during the summer months.

In this issue, you can read about the amazing things happening at YMCA Camp Leif Ericson here in Sioux Falls, the programming offered at Inspiration Hills, Camp EmBe’s summer plans, and the incredible adaptive program offered at SafeSplash Sioux Falls.

For even more ideas, resources, and updates, be sure to visit our website—we’ll be sharing additional camps, activities, and opportunities throughout the season.

Here’s to a fun, full, and memorable summer for everyone!

Steffanie Holtrop Publisher

President & Publisher

Steffanie Holtrop 605-366-1479

steff@thehoodmagazine.com

Editor

Sarah Parker

Art & Design Director

Ally Chase

Digital Media Director

Jaclyn Small

Client Relations

Jennifer Fleming admin@thehoodmagazine.com

Calendar

Abby Kyle

Circulation

Ben Graff and Laura Kattenberg

Contributing Photos

YMCA Camp Leif Ericson

Reproduction or use of the contents of this magazine is prohibited.

‘Hood Magazine is published 7 times a year by Hoodlum Productions, LLC and strives to publish only accurate information; however, Hoodlum Productions, LLC cannot be held responsible for consequences resulting from errors or omissions. All material in this magazine is the property of Hoodlum Productions, LLC and cannot be reproduced without permission of the publisher.

‘hood

FEATURED EVENTS

The Sioux Falls Area is full of events for the whole family! Check out some of our favorite upcoming events below.

march

4-8

Summit League’s Basketball Championships

Denny Sanford PREMIER Center

The 2026 Summit League Men’s and Women’s Basketball Championship Tournament is coming back to Sioux Falls.

Ag Day

The Washington Pavilion

Ag Day gives children and families a wonderful opportunity to learn about agriculture’s significance – in South Dakota and beyond. This is a free event in our lobby spaces.

12-15

Cinderella: Youth Edition

Orpheum Theater Center

The Spotlight Theatre Company is bringing Roger and Hammerstein’s Cinderella: Youth Edition to the stage. Support our local youth performers!

12 MAR

In Her Shoes

Empowerment Breakfast

Canopy by Hilton Sioux Falls Downtown

Bring your mom, sister, daughter, or friend to be part of this unforgettable morning filled with empowerment, connection, and purpose. This breakfast brings community members together and supports EmBe Women’s programming.

Special Olympics Night with the Skyforce

Sanford Pentagon

Celebrate Special Olympics night while the Sioux Falls Skyforce take on the Stockton Kings.

St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Downtown Sioux Falls

Go downtown to participate in the 46th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Phillips Ave.

World Down Syndrome Day

Let’s celebrate World Down Syndrome Day together! Break out your crazy socks and join us in spreading awareness and inclusion. Check our website for upcoming events and details!

TOBYMAC’s Hit Deeps Tour

Denny Sanford PREMIER Center

Join TobyMac, Jeremy Camp, and Crowder for an unforgettable night of their best hits at the Denny Sanford PREMIER Center.

Stomp’s Birthday Bash

Denny Sanford PREMIER Center

Cheer on the Sioux Falls Stampede and celebrate Stomp’s birthday at this Saturday night game.

MAR 21-22

Greater Sioux Falls Model Train Show, Sioux Falls Convention Center

Come see operating model trains of various scales. Vendors buying, selling and trading model trains and supplies. This is a great event for model railroaders and families.

27-29

Clue

The Washington Pavilion

Based on the boardgame and hit movie, enjoy the ultimate whodunit on stage.

UPCOMING EVENT?

MAR

26-28

Just Between Friends Spring/ Summer Sale

W. H. Lyon Fairgrounds

Join our Spring JBF Sale to shop huge savings on quality kids’ items or sell your gently used items— all in one place, one weekend, with local families.

Doggie Spring Fling Family Park

Sioux Falls Parks and Rec is hosting its 4th annual Doggie Egg Hunt. Registration is required.

4 APR

Egg-stravaganza

The Great Plains Zoo

A day of egg hunts, animal encounters, and a scavenger hunt for the big kids! Eggstravaganza is sponsored by the Sioux Falls Canaries baseball team.

Reach out to us to have YOUR event featured in our next issue or online calendar!

Summer Job Guide

Summer is just around the corner, and for many teens and young adults, that means it’s time to start thinking about a summer job. A seasonal or part-time position is about more than a paycheck, it’s a chance to gain real-world experience, build confidence, and take on new responsibilities. Take a look, explore what’s available, and start planning for a summer filled with purpose, progress, and fun!

Sioux Falls Parks and Recreation siouxfalls.gov/parks-jobs

Sioux Falls Parks & Recreation is looking for highenergy people to help us manage our 81 parks and 8 pools this summer. Whether it’s working outside in our 3,400 acres of parkland or helping run one of our 150+ summer programs, these roles make a huge impact on our community.

SD Game, Fish and ParksOutdoor Campus Sioux Falls gfp.sd.gov/toc-east

Looking for an opportunity that’s more than just a summer job? Join us as a Naturalist Intern where you’ll get hands-on experience in education, conservation, and leadership. This opportunity is perfect for students who love the outdoors and want to build their resume. Visit the Bureau of Human Resources: http://bhr.sd.gov/workforus.

KidStrong Sioux Falls siouxfalls.kidstrong.com

KidStrong Sioux Falls is hiring Summer Coaches! Lead fun, high-energy classes, camps, and parties for kids ages 1-11. Support skill development and motivate families in a positive environment. Part-time summer (and year-round) role, training provided. Perfect for students or educators, apply today!

Camp Leif Ericson siouxfallsymca.bamboohr.com/ careers/61

Camp Leif Ericson is hiring energetic, caring Camp Counselors for Summer 2026! Build leadership skills, make lifelong memories, and create meaningful impact while working outdoors with kids. Competitive weekly stipends, training provided, and opportunities for added pay. A fun, purpose-driven summer starts here.

1. Adventure of the Week:

Our weekly themes keep the vibes fresh and the excitement high. No two weeks are ever the same!

Beat the heat with swimming days twice a week. It’s the ultimate way to cool down and level up those water skills.

No lunchbox stress here! We provide healthy meals and snacks every day all included in your tuition.

Life is busy. We offer flexible scheduling to fit your family’s unique summer rhythm.

We’re all about connection. We focus on community building both inside our halls and throughout our neighborhood.

We don’t just stay put! With weekly field trips, your camper will explore fun places Sioux Falls & the surrounding area has to offer.

Forget the cross-town trek. Our convenient bus stops within Sioux Falls make drop-off and pick-up a breeze for campers attending EmBe South.

Our specialty learning quests (STEM, Arts, Science, Social Studies, Character Building, Sports & Exercise) are so hands-on and engaging, the kids won't even realize they’re learning.

Campers are grouped by age and interests, making it easy for them to find their " crew " and build lasting friendships.

Most importantly, we provide a fun and safe environment specifically designed for kids ages 5–12 to be themselves and feel like they belong.

Inspiration Hills:

A Place To Know & Grow

Inspiration Hills Camp and Retreat Center is located in Inwood, IA, and offers amazing programming year-round.

Summer Camp

Inspiration Hills hosts more than nine weeks of summer camp each year, offering a wide variety of experiences including Grand Camp, Day Camps, Fishing Camps, Horse Camps, and more. For children new to camp, Discovery Camp is the perfect introduction—a two-night experience that allows campers to enjoy the outdoors while sleeping comfortably indoors.

Retreats

Interested in Summer Day Camp?

Inspiration Hills offers bus pick-ups/ drop-offs in several spots in and around Sioux Falls.

Campers enjoy a wide range of activities such as swimming, axe-throwing, archery tag, the challenge course, and more. One of the highlights of returning to camp each year is advancing through the Challenge Course. Younger campers participate in the Low Ropes Course, while older campers suit up with helmets and harnesses to climb 25 feet in the air or rappel down the rock and rope wall. Zip-lining from the tower often serves as the exciting grand finale to an afternoon of team-building and fun.

Inspiration Hills also offers year-round retreats in two spacious lodges, providing plenty of room for groups or families to gather, prepare meals, or relax by the fire. During the summer months, the swimming pool offers a refreshing escape from the heat. Meal service is available, especially for groups of 50 or more.

Retreat options include events such as the Warrior Run 5K, Single Moms Retreat, Marriage and Parenting Retreat, and Digging Deeper, a day event focused on learning how to study the Bible. Many groups also reserve cabins, private rooms, or campsites for family gatherings, corporate retreats, silent retreats, and more.

Inspiration Hills provides a peaceful environment where individuals and groups can connect, grow, and be refreshed. l

The Benefits of a High-Quality

Adaptive Aquatics Program

For children with physical, sensory, or developmental differences, learning to swim is about much more than mastering strokes—it’s about safety, confidence, and feeling supported. A thoughtfully designed Adaptive Aquatics program provides a welcoming environment where swimmers of all abilities can experience success in the water.

Individualized Instruction

One of the most important benefits of Adaptive Aquatics is individualized instruction. Rather than following a one-size-fits-all approach, adaptive lessons are tailored to each swimmer’s unique needs, learning style, and comfort level. This personalized attention allows instructors to adjust pacing, communication, and teaching techniques to support swimmers with sensory sensitivities, mobility challenges, or developmental differences.

Physical Benefits

Adaptive Aquatics also offers significant physical benefits. The water’s buoyancy reduces impact on joints while providing gentle resistance that helps improve strength, balance, coordination, and endurance. For many swimmers, the pool becomes an ideal setting to build physical skills in a way that feels safe, supported, and enjoyable.

Emotional and Social Growth

Beyond physical development, Adaptive Aquatics plays a powerful role in emotional and social growth. A calm, encouraging environment can help reduce anxiety and build trust. As swimmers achieve milestones—such as floating independently or gaining comfort with submersion—they develop confidence and selfesteem that often extends beyond the pool.

Water Safety

Water safety is another essential component of adaptive swim programs. By focusing on safety skills alongside confidence-building, families gain greater peace of mind around pools, lakes, and other aquatic environments.

Led by Lea Johnson, Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) and Licensed Occupational Therapist (OTR/L), the SafeSplash Sioux Falls, Adaptive Aquatics program is rooted in inclusion, patience, and empowerment. By meeting swimmers where they are and celebrating every step forward, we help ensure that every swimmer has the opportunity to feel confident, capable, and safe in the water. Contact Lea directly at (605) 553-2990.

The BEST 2 Weeks SUMMERof!

For generations of Sioux Falls families, summer is not complete without Camp Leif Ericson. Often described by campers as “the best two weeks of summer,” this beloved camp has provided safe, meaningful, and joy-filled experiences for more than 100 years.

Located along the banks of the Big Sioux River, Camp Leif Ericson feels like a peaceful retreat while remaining close to home. Campers unplug from screens, explore the outdoors, and build friendships through creative play, group challenges, and hands-on learning.

Where Every Child Belongs

At its core, Camp Leif Ericson is a place of belonging. Children of all backgrounds and abilities are welcomed, supported, and encouraged to be themselves. Campers gain confidence by trying new things, forming friendships, and discovering strengths they did not know they had, all within a safe and inclusive environment.

Counselors Who Make the Difference

The true heart of camp is its people. Dedicated counselors serve as mentors, role models, and trusted adults who help guide campers through each experience. Through encouragement and care, counselors help children build life skills such as teamwork, empathy, independence, and resilience.

A Legacy That Lasts

Camp Leif Ericson’s impact reaches far beyond summer. Many parents once attended camp themselves and now send their children, while former campers often return as teen leaders and counselors. This cycle of mentorship creates a lasting legacy that strengthens families and builds community.

When campers head home, they carry more than memories. They return with confidence, connection, and a sense of belonging that lasts long after summer ends. That is what makes Camp Leif Ericson truly the best two weeks of summer.

What Type of Camps Does Leif Ericson Offer?

Little Vikes (Ages 4–5)

A half-day camp in 2-week sessions, that offers a gentle first camp experience with lots of play!

Camp Leif Ericson (Ages 6–9)

Offered in 2-week sessions, this day camp is a classic camp experience! Includes archery, low ropes, nature exploration, arts and crafts, group games, and character development.

Camp Tepeetonka (Ages 10–13)

A leadership-focused camp building independence and teamwork. This day camp is offered in 2-week sessions with two overnights.

TLC: Tepeetonka Leadership Camp (Ages 14–15)

Bridge the gap between camper and counselor through hands-on leadership, mentoring, service projects, and skill-building. This camp is offered in 2-week sessions with two overnights.

Venture Vikes (Ages 6–13)

This high-energy themed adventure day camp packs fun into 1-week sessions!

Give

Kids the Woods Camp (Ages 6–18)

An inclusive day camp experience for children with disabilities, made possible through generous donor support. Transportation not offered for this camp experience.

* All programs offer tiered pricing options, and financial assistance is available to ensure camp is accessible to all families.

Daily bus transportation to and from camp is available, along with before and after camp childcare.

The Reviews Are In!

See what former campers and parents have said about Camp Leif Erickson:

I still remember those stories, and I remember just that sense of wonder and fun, and every day was a new adventure.”

-Former Camper, Counselor, and Camp Parent

-Camp Parent "

My son feels like he connects with the camp counselors. He meets new friends every year. He gets to experience all these fun, engaging activities. They offer so much for the kids to do, and I just feel like it’s somewhere for a kid to develop independently.”

This is the best summer of my entire life! -Camper " "

(A place for) Kids being kids- where they’ve got a place where they can just be kids.”

-Camp Parent

GUIDE 2026

Summer will be here before we know it, and with it comes the annual question: What are the kids going to do all summer? If you’re looking for meaningful ways to fill those long, sunny days, you’re in the right place!

This year’s Summer Camps Guide features more than 30 camps from around the Sioux Falls Area, offering something for every age, interest, and personality. From sports and STEAM to art, music, outdoor adventure, and everything in between, there truly is a camp for everyone.

Summer camp is more than just a way to stay busy. It’s a chance for kids to try something new, gain confidence, build friendships, and discover interests they didn’t even know they had. However you map out the months ahead, we hope this guide helps you find the perfect fit.

Get ready, it’s shaping up to be an unforgettable summer.

All American Gymnastics allamericangymnastics.com

Looking for an action-packed summer?

AAGA’s Summer Day Camp offers gymnastics, ninja courses, laser tag, water inflatables, and more for kids 5 years to 7th grade! They’ll stay active, make friends, and build confidence in a fun, safe environment. Sign up today for an unforgettable summer!

Camp Leif Ericson (Sioux Falls Family YMCA) siouxfallsymca.org/camps

Since 1920, YMCA Camp Leif Ericson has provided safe, meaningful, and fun outdoor experiences along the Big Sioux River. Campers build confidence, friendships, and character through hands-on activities led by caring counselors—creating memories that last a lifetime close to home.

Soccer Sprouts sdsoccersprouts.com

We are an education-based skills program that helps children learn the FUN-damentals of soccer. Our professionally trained coaches work with kids of all ability levels, introducing them to soccer through playing tons of exciting, ageappropriate games and activities. Returning player? Our coaches will continue to challenge and train your child!

Sioux Falls Community Learning Centers

sf.k12.sd.us/o/clc

Give your child a summer full of adventure, friendship, and growth! Our full-day program is designed for students K-5th grade, offering a safe, fun environment packed with hands-on activities and engaging learning experiences. Students will spend the summer immersed in creative arts, STEM, skill building, swimming, field trips and more!

Join the tradition! Dakota Spirit has been a favorite for families year after year. Whether your child is looking to build new tumbling skills, make new friends, or have a blast performing a routine, we have the perfect program for them! Come be part of the excitement spots fill fast, so inquire today!

camp guide

Sioux Empire Baseball Association

Siouxempirebaseball.org

First Session: PreK- High School Limited Spots Available. Season Dates: April 27th-July 9th

Second session: PreK-6th Grade Registration opens May 4th, July 13th-August 20th. Register now at Siouxempirebaseball.org

Kids ‘R’ Kids

Learning Academy of Prairie Hills kidsrkids.com/prairie-hills/ programs/summer-camp

Camp VIBE involves a new theme designed to empower campers through amusing activities, fascinating field trips, timely lessons in teamwork, and so much more! Campers will have their eyes opened to limitless possibilities and their minds focused to ignite their passions. Let them catch the VIBE of summer!

Inspiration Hills Camp & Retreat Center

inspirationhills.org

Inspiration Hills offers nine weeks of Summer Camp in a wide variety of experiences. Yearround retreat options provide plenty of room for groups or families to gather and relax by the fire. Private Cabins, Campsites, Ropes Course, Swimming Pool and Hiking are just a few more things Inspiration Hills offers!

Washington Pavilion washingtonpavilion.org/ programs/camps-and-classes

Washington Pavilion summer camps offer hands-on art, science and theatre experiences for kids and teens ages 3–18. Campers explore, create and build confidence through engaging activities led by experienced instructors in a fun, supportive environment.

The Outdoor Campus gfp.sd.gov/toc-east

The Outdoor Campus offers a variety of free, family friendly outdoor programming throughout the summer. From hunting and fishing to outdoor skills, the Outdoor Campus is sure to have a class that is right for your family. Register for a class this summer!

The Premiere Playhouse thepremiereplayhouse.com/campsintensives

The Premiere Playhouse is excited to announce their 2026 youth theatre summer camps for ages 6-18! Camps consist of auditions, games, developing theatre skills, new friendships, and final performances! These camps take place downtown and are fun-filled learning experiences for kids who are interested in learning the art of theatre!

Southeast Technical College southeasttech.edu/summer

Southeast Technical College, along with regional partners, hosts various camps, career exploration opportunities and paid work experiences in construction and horticulture throughout the summer. Students will explore jobs in healthcare, engineering and the trades. Criteria varies, so visit southeasttech.edu/summer for details, dates and registration information.

BritZa Performing Arts Studio britzaperformingarts.com

Let your creativity soar this summer while dancing, singing, and acting at BritZa! Twirl at Princess Camp, step into the spotlight while performing “Madagascar Jr.” and “101 Dalmatians Kids,” become a pop star for the BritZa World Tour, and so much more.

camp guide

Children’s Museum of South Dakota prairieplay.org

We have camps and classes for ages 3-12! Our experiences are hands-on and child-led. Our Maker Studio helps to foster creativity, curiosity, and self-expression through a variety of activities, including robotics, circuitry, theater, sculpture, and more! Head over to our website calendar at prairieplay.org for a list of offerings.

Sylvan Learning bit.ly/SylvanSiouxFalls

At Sylvan Learning, we’re focused on building academic confidence, igniting intellectual curiosity, and inspiring a love for learning – our personalized tutoring is tailored to your child’s specific needs! In fact, Sylvan students achieve up to 3x the growth in their math and reading scores compared to their peers.

Check up on your fuzzy, feathery, furry, and scaly friends in our veterinary ofﬁce, Whiskers & Tails! Located on KidStreet.

PLAY ALONG HOWEVER YOU WANT AT THE CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF SOUTH DAKOTA.

Brookings, SD prairieplay.org

LSS of South Dakota Childcare.LssSD.org

LSS’s summer programs are hands-on and kid-friendly, providing unique learning experiences through field trips and fun weekly educational themes. Kids play an active role in shaping the week’s activities, encouraging interaction and leadership.

Levitt Jam Camp levittsiouxfalls.org

Levitt Summer Jam Camps offer an inclusive music experience for ages 7–18, created by Levitt at the Falls and Augustana University School of Music. Young musicians explore themed sessions, build skills, and form friendships in a supportive community. With pay-what-youcan enrollment, every child can discover creativity, collaboration, and musical inspiration.

Discounted party packages? Free treats? Exclusive coupons? The ‘hood Birthday Club is like no other for our Sioux Empire families. It’s not too late to sign up to join. Scan QR code to sign your child(ren) up today!

camp guide

EmBe embe.org/ youth-summer-programs

EmBe’s summer youth opportunities keep kids learning, moving, and having fun all summer long! Camp EmBe offers full-day summer care for kindergarten–5th grade, while youth camps for grades 3–8 include athletics, field trips, and on-site learning activities with Camp Girls on the Run, Babysitting Camp, and Summer Volleyball.

KidStrong Camp siouxfalls. kidstrong.com/camps

KS Camps feature highly trained coaches to help build confidence with high-energy, fun and physical activities your kid will love!

9:00 AM-2:30 PM. KIDSTRONG CAMP INCLUDES: Games that build confidence & strength, learning through physical activity, daily awards to celebrate wins, STEAM activities, making friends & building social skills.

605Tutor

605tutor.com

Most students gain a grade level of reading or math progress over a summer with 605Tutor! 1:1 tutoring and high-interest small group labs in reading, writing, and math for ages 7-13. Brain Training Lab, Multiplication Mastery Lab, Phonics Skill Builder Lab, or engage our 1:1 tutoring options.

Destiny Youth Ranch

destinyyouthranch.com

We are a non-denominational, non-profit organization that runs camps and retreats where you can learn more about faith and horses in a quiet atmosphere. We have great speakers, worship, crafts, games, and campfires! We teach basic horsemanship, arena riding, and trail riding on over 45 acres of land!

SWIMJAMS at SAFESPLASH East

www.safesplash.com/locations/sioux-fallseast-sd

Our flexible 1-week format speeds up skill advancement through daily repetition with 4 lessons per week. Designed to fit busy schedules, SWIMJAMS can be booked for multiple weeks from the end of May into August. Sign up now for your preferred week(s) and location (South or East @ Dawley Farm).

SWIMJAMS at SAFESPLASH South

www.safesplash.com/locations/sioux-fallssouth-sd

EAST

camp guide

Wings Gymnastics Academy

wingsgym.com/summercamp

Dive into adventure at Wings Summer Camps! Exciting weekly themes and thrilling activities await from 7 am to 6 pm (9 am to 3 pm programming). Join us at our Bahnson Ave. location for $280/week. Use code HOOD25 to receive $25 off each week!

Mathnasium of Sioux Falls

mathnasium.com/math-centers/siouxfalls

Mathnasium gives you one less thing to worry about this summer. Instead of losing the average two months of math knowledge during the summer, your child will grow in his or her confidence in math...and actually enjoy doing it!

Gymnastics Academy

Swan Lake Christian Camp myslcc.com

All are welcome to come and make great friends on the shores of Swan Lake. Just 45 minutes from Sioux Falls, youth experience Christ through the daily chapel, personal reflection, life-giving campfires, and nightly cabin devotions. Fun activities throughout the day include archery, crafts, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and recreational games.

First TeeSouth Dakota firstteesouthdakota.org

Through the game of golf, First Tee offers programs for kids 5-18 that create new experiences that build character and empower them through a lifetime of new challenges and continuous growth - all on the golf course! Programs are offered at Elmwood and Dells Rocky Run. Registration opens March 2nd.

Dakota Spirit dakotaspirit.com

Dakota Spirit offers cheerleading classes for both recreational and competitive levels! We provide summer cheer camps, tumbling camps, and weekly classes. Join us this summer and make lasting memories with our amazing staff at Dakota Spirit!

Great Plains Zoo GreatZoo.org

Have the WILDEST summer ever at ZooCamp! Sessions include full-day, half-day, and full-week offerings for ages 4-12. 2026 topics include Zoo Medicine, Wild About Cats, Fun on the Farm, Animals of Myth & Legend, Exhibit Engineers, and more! Sioux Falls Zoo & Aquarium members get exclusive discounts on ZooCamps.

www.voyagefcu.org | Insured by NCUA

LifeScape Intensify lifescapesd.org/outpatient-therapybehavioral-health/intensify

LifeScape Therapy is now scheduling evaluations for our summer intensive program. A collection of specific therapeutic interventions delivered at a higher intensity, to reach individual goals in a shorter amount of time. Intensify features: Move and Groove for strength and conditioning, Power Mobility, and Intensive Feeding.

SDSU Extension extension.sdstate.edu/ 4-h-camps

Attending summer camp is a traditional rite of passage for many youth. SDSU Extension 4-H hosts multiple camp sessions in early to mid-June. Youth meet other campers from across the state, participate in experiential educational activities, and experience fun recreational opportunities.

Sanford PROMISE Summer Programs research.sanfordhealth.org/classes-andevents/promise-summer-programs

Sanford PROMISE offers summer programs for middle school and high school students to explore a scientific topic in depth. Inside Out: An Engineering and Anatomy Experience - 6th-8th Finding Your Roots: A Genetics and Genealogy Experience - 6th-8th Body Works: Health Careers and Anatomy - 9th/10th

LIFESCAPE

camp guide

YSSA Inc. Sfyssa.org

We are a local youth slowpitch softball organization that allows kids an opportunity to play softball. We have divisions for both boys and girls, ages 3 to 18 years old. Our league runs from the end of May to the end of July with an opportunity for a couple of tournaments.

Mary Jo Wegner

Arboretum-Camp Wild maryjowegnerarboretum.com/activities/ camp-wild.html

Come wander, stomp, run, and romp through our 115-acre Nature Playground! Camp Wild invites campers ages 5-10 to explore South Dakota’s natural beauty, from prairie to forest and wetlands to quarry stone. Short hikes and nature crafts will connect campers to the wonders of nature in their own backyard!

Therapy

Early intensive therapy can accelerate a child’s progress during the years it matters most. LifeScape’s Intensive Therapy program provides targeted OT, PT, and Speech Therapy multiple days per week to help children build critical skills faster.

Designed as a short-term program, intensive therapy supports long-term success in communication, movement, and daily living skills. All while working around busy family schedules.

Activities Guide Featured Listings Include: Registration Info, Ages, Cost, Website, Season and More

Ask the

Expert

Do you have a question for a Sioux Empire expert? ‘hood will be inviting area experts to weigh in and answer various questions from our readers.

Solis Photo

Patty Solis Owner

What’s the deal with maternity photos?

Millennials and Gen Z seem to be obsessed with maternity photos. It’s a trend that just keeps growing. In my opinion, they represent more than pregnancy. It’s the value of memories, identity, and empowerment. These generations grew up documenting life, valuing meaningful visuals that reflect who they are and what they stand for, and maternity photos celebrate body positivity, selfexpression, and the beauty of transformation and storytelling.

There’s also a strong emotional pull. With delayed parenthood, fertility struggles, and intentional family planning becoming more common, pregnancy feels deeply earned and worthy of celebration. For Millennials and Gen Z, maternity photos aren’t about trends; they’re about honoring a powerful chapter of life through art that lasts, and I love it.

400 N Main-Suite 102

Sioux Falls, SD 57104

solisphoto.com

605.413.0135

Marek Siorek MD, Interventional Radiologist

Can I Get Rid of Varicose Veins?

Yes, you can get rid of varicose veins. The goal of varicose vein treatment is to force blood from unhealthy veins, known as varicose veins, into healthy veins deeper inside your muscles. Many of these treatments are same-day procedures with a fast recovery to normal activities.

Most varicose veins connect to larger veins called saphenous veins. These veins tend to be straighter and can be treated by closing them off using heat, a medical adhesive (glue) or injecting a gentle solution into the vein. The more superficial curvy veins are then treated with a gentle solution injection.

Once closed, the treated veins are no longer used by the body and gradually fade away over time.

911 E. 20th St. Suite 200

Sioux Falls, SD 57105

Avera.org/Vein

605.322.8346

SDSU Extension

Jessica Meuleners Nutrition Field Specialist

How can nutrition support my children as they get involved with sports?

When kids begin playing sports, their bodies are moving more, growing more, and repairing more. They require extra energy, protein, and nutrients to support athletic performance and overall development. Good nutrition on game days and beyond is essential to meeting these needs.

Smart pre-activity snacks can help improve:

• Athletic performance

• Energy levels

• Focus

• Attention span

Smart post-activity snacks can help:

• Aid in faster recovery

• Refill energy levels

• Decrease sore or tired muscles

To read more about fueling a young athlete, including snack ideas, check out extension.sdstate.edu/ food/nutrition! 4101 W 38th St Ste 103

Sioux Falls, SD 57106

extension.sdstate.edu/food/ nutrition

605.782.3290

Avera Interventional Radiology

OUTDOOR CAMPUS

SIOUX FALLS, SOUTH DAKOTA

CAMPUS HOURS

Monday - Friday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

CLOSED STATE HOLIDAYS LEARN MORE

SUMMER 2026

BOOKLETS AVAILABLE APRIL 22

Registration

» June Classes May 6

» July Classes June 3

» August Classes July 1

FALL 2026

BOOKLETS AVAILABLE AUGUST 5

Registration opens August 19

WINTER 2026-27

BOOKLETS AVAILABLE NOVEMBER 4

Registration opens November 18

SPRING 2027

BOOKLETS AVAILABLE JANUARY 27

Registration opens February 10

OPEN HOUSE PROGRAMMING

No registration required and all gear is provided.

SUPER SATURDAY 10 A.M.-NOON AND 1-3 P.M.

June 6 - Archery

June 13 - Paddling

June 20 - Fishing

June 27 - Archery

July 11 - Paddling

July 18 - Fishing

July 25 - Archery

FISHING AT FAMILY PARK |

August 1 - Paddling

August 8 - Fishing

9-11 A.M.

*Made possible through partnership with the Sioux Falls Parks and Recreation. Saturdays June 1-July 25

FISHING AT LAKE LORRAINE | 6-7:30

P.M.

*Made possible through a partnership with Friessen Development, Inc. Lake Lorraine is a privately-owned body of water and not open to public fishing. The Outdoor Campus has been given express permission to fish these dates from Lake Lorraine. Other dates and programs may be announced later.

*Participants are welcome to bring their own gear during these Outdoor Campus led programs.

June 18, July 16, August 20, September 17

With FREE classes ranging from fishing and archery to BB guns and kayakings, the Outdoor Campus has a class that is right for you and your family.