Enter the Vegas Family Insider Cover Kid Contest for a chance to see your child on the front or back cover of Vegas Family Insider magazine. WhatWinnersGet: A professional photo —cover-worthy and frame-worthy. Keepsake copies and digital files to share withfamilyandfriends. A citywide spotlight reaching 200,000+ localfamilies.
Showoffthatsparkle! Upload a high-resolution photo. Share 100 words about what makes your child shine. Submit by the 21st.
Acrossthecountry,familiesarerethinking education Homeschoolingcontinuestogrow Microschoolsareemergingincommunities everywhere.Studentsareearningcollege creditsinhighschool,launchingbusinesses, learningtrades,creatingart,codingapps,and discoveringthatlearningcanhappenfar beyondaclassroomwall.
Atthesametime,manyfamiliesremain deeplycommittedtotraditionalschoolsand theteacherswhoshowupeverydayto supportstudents
Whatweheardoverandoverwhileputting togetherthisissueisthatparentsaren't necessarilylookingforthe"best"educational model They'relookingforthebestfit.
Aplacewheretheirchildfeelssafe. Aplacewheretheyarechallenged Aplacewheretheycandiscoverwhotheyare becoming.
Ourgoalisn'ttotellyouwhatchoicetomake. It'storemindyouthatyouhavechoices.
AswecontinuebuildingVegasFamilyInsider andournewnonprofit,Ink&Enterprise,that beliefremainsattheheartofeverythingwe do.Whetherwe'rehighlightingyoung entrepreneurs,supportingJrJournalists hostingcommunityevents,orsharinglo resources,ourmissionissimple:help familiesdiscoveropportunitiesthata kidstothrive.
Thankyouforallowingustobepartofyour journey.Whereveryourfamily'spathleads thisschoolyear,we'recheeringyouon.
OnethingthatmakesourMiniMogulMarket different?Thekidsareincharge.From settinguptheirdisplaystogreeting customers,theybuildconfidence,problemsolvingskills,andleadershipwithevery market.Here,RomeoJimenezprepareshis tableof3-Dprintedanimalsandsensorybins beforethedoorsopen Readmoreonpage8.
Meet Ava Kelner, 6, a ham for the camera, says her mom, Fatima Kelner owner of Cut the Craft.
Our cover kid was photographed for Back-toSchool by our photographer in residence, Vera Sambrano of Capture Moments Photography.
Catch the full feature with stories from local parents and professionals on page 28.
20% off on adult GA at Real Bodies at the Horseshoe with code KIDZONERB
Book a Dino Party or Encounter with Real Dinosaurs & get $50 OFF T-Rex or Raptor packages with code “VKZ”!
$10 off Trash Can Bin Cleaning with 702 Detailing Pro
FAVORITES 10% off Capture Moments Photography
15% off Literary Adventures for Kids. Use code CAFE15 at checkout.
35% off Dr. Fish Spa when you mention Vegas Kids Zone 15% off Dechan, Inc. Printing
$95 off 3 treatment exclusive 60-minute rejuvenating facials from DNAesthetics FIND OVER $300 IN DEALS
20% off Cocoa Classroom with code WeLoveVegasKidsZone CLICKHERE
20% off Maid Service from Picky Performance House Cleaning
Click on the map for updated events in and around Las Vegas.
Atage6,RomeoJimenezisa3-yearOGmemberofourMiniMogul Markets!Alongwithhisbrother,Teddy,andcousin,MatthewAguilar, theboyscreated3BroskisLemonade,sellinglemonade,horchataand cocoabombsthatwerearegularselloutatourmonthlymarkets.As theyhavegrown,theboyshaveeachexpandedintotheirowninterests. Romeocreates3-Danimalsthatmoveandrecentlysoldoutwithhis newdesign,travelsensorybins!-KimberleyMcGee
Q A
Q A
What made you decide to start making sensory bins?
One day I played with my kinetic sand and my 3-D animals I make and I thought it would be a great idea to make a small case to take everywhere.
What has been your biggest success so far?
I earned $100 by making a lot of sales at the market with (Vegas Family Insider).
Q
AWhat is one challenge and what did it take to overcome it?
Talking to customers. I overcame that challenge by trying again
Q A
What advice would you give a child, or their parent, who are thinking about trying a local kid’s market?
Have fun!
VEGASFAMILYINSIDER.COM
Fuel your child’s big idea and turns those dreams into action!
FREE FOOD, DRINKS,& DISCOUNTS ON YOUR BIRTHDAY
Got a July birthday kid? Come celebrate with us at the July 11 at our monthly Mini Mogul Matket at Fantastic Indoor Swap Meet! Turn it into a birthday outing they won’t forget
RSVP and you'll receive a FREE Birthday Goody Bag packed with family-friendly treats, including free kids' meals from Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar, special offers, and a few extra surprises.
And because birthdays deserve a little extra magic...
It’s our favorite time of the year, birthday time! We have found 20+ places to get a free goodie or gift during your birthday month or only when you arrive on your actual birthday
From a cookie or a Bundlet to lipstick, eye makeup and candles, there is an abundance of goodies for you to grab on your birthday! V
Every July birthday child will receive a special birthday gift from Vegas Family Insider when they stop by!
While you’re there:
hop dozens of kid-owned businesses (you may leave with slime, handmade treasures, or your child's newest entrepreneurial role model!)
Enter to win one of two family 4packs to Dinosaur Outpost (drawings at noon and 2 p.m.)
Watch young entrepreneurs in action and discover what's possible when kids are trusted to dream big, create, and lead.
RSVP here for your FREE birthday gift from Vegas Family Insider! SpecialGiftsforJulyBirthdayKids!
Creating opportunities for kids and parents every month!
As our new nonprofit, Ink & Enterprise, gets underway, we've enjoyed connecting with fellow organizations making a difference in our community, including Ben Berard, CEO of Volunteers of Vegas (right). If you haven’t seen his viral videos, you are in for a treat! He is making a big impact on every single day.
We were honored to welcome Coya Harrison III, host and creator of V Vegas Places, as our guest judge Th his podcast, Coyal spotlights local entrepreneurs, creatives, and comm leaders, making him the perfect per encourage and celebrate our nex generation of young business own
Our first Mini Mogul Market at the new Vegas Family Insider event space June 6 was a great reminder of what happens when young entrepreneurs support one another.
Members of the Semper Fi Homestead 4-H Club earned more than $400 selling handmade items, baked goods, and homegrown produce, with their Johnny Cash cow candles becoming a customer favorite. City of the World Art Gallery provided free face painting for families, while one young author sold 19 books after fellow vendors shared extra display space to help showcase his work
The market wasn't just about sales it was about teamwork, confidence, and kids lifting each other up
Come see us July 11 at our Mini Mogul Market at Fantastic Indoor Swap Meet!
Back to School? Not This Year. And That's Okay.
Ready to be part of a village that actually has your back? Join the Empowered Caregivers Initiative at jacobsladder.lovebecause you deserve a community that sees you, supports you, and reminds you that you've got this
Heather Criswell, author, speaker, and founder of Heather’s Soul Talks, has over 30 years of experience helping 30,000+ families For more parenting tips, visit heathercriswell.com for free resources.
The Autism & Neurodivergent Resource Guide isn’t your typical list of businesses.
It’s a thoughtfully built, locally rooted guide designed to help families actually find what they need, without the overwhelmed.
Because this journey doesn’t come with a manual.
But it should come with support.
Real stories fro Sensory-friend y p p
Trusted providers from ABA to speech, OT, and beyond
A growing, interactive resource map
Businesses stepping up to create inclusive spaces
Tools, ideas, and moments of connection you didn’t know you needed
This guide is here to make things a little easier, a little clearer, and a lot more connected.
ByAntoinnetteMajors
Thereisaversionofmotherhoodthat manywomenquietlyinheritwithout everconsciouslyagreeingtoit.
Itistheversionwherestrengthis measuredbyhowmuchawoman cancarrywithouthelp.Whereselfcareisreducedtoisolatedmoments squeezedbetweenresponsibilities. Wheremothersarepraisedfor “doingitall,”whilesimultaneously drowningbeneaththeweightof beingeverythingtoeveryone
Andyet,despitehownormalizedthis hasbecome,manywomenare beginningtoquestionwhether motherhoodwaseverintendedtofeel thisdisconnected.
Self-careisoftenframedasan individualpractice.Itissoldthrough routines,solorituals,andmomentsof personalescape
Butinspeakingwithhomeschool motherandcommunitybuilder TashaDixon,ownerofColorful GeniusesHomeschoolCooperative (inphotoatright),anothertruth emerges:
Manymothersarenot necessarilylackingself-care practices.Theyarelacking community.
“WhenIthinkaboutself-care, obviouslyit’sthecareofyourself,” Dixonexplained “ButIthinkthat buildingcommunitywithother individualsaidsinyourself-care, becauseasamomandasawife, whenyouaretakingcareofyourself, whoistakingcareofthechildren?”
Herquestioncutsdirectlytotheheartofa realitymanymothersunderstand intimately Restdoesnotexistinavacuum Neitherdoeshealing,regulation,or restoration.
Formanywomen,theabilitytobreathe deeply,thinkclearly,orsimplypauseoften dependsonwhethertrustedsupportexists aroundthem
“Yourself-careextendsouttoyour immediatenetwork,”Dixonsaid.“That couldbefamily,friends,neighbors,any trustedindividualthatyoucancounton helpsinyourself-careinsomeway.”
Themodernconversationaround motherhoodoftenglorifiesindependence, butDixonbelievestheissueisnotsimply exhaustion.Itisdisconnection.
“Somuchofmotherhoodnowis approachedfromthestandpointof,‘Thisis meandmynuclearfamily,andwe’llfigure itout,’”shesaid.“ButIthinkifwe approachedmotherhoodfromthe standpointofneedingcommunitywith otherpeople,wewouldseealotless resentmentandburnout.”
Antoinnette Majors is the owner of Momma Mindframe, a prenatal mindset coaching practice that helps expectant mothers access their innate power and About the Author intuition so that they are empowered to create the birthing experience they desire
ByLyndonHoldeman,HoldemanRealtyGroup
Most families know a Realtor they like and trust. That Realtor may be excellent at selling a home But when an aging parent begins to need help with daily activities or may need assisted living, selling the house is only one part of a much bigger decision.
As Senior Living Advisors, we help families answer what we call the three questions: Where will Mom get the best care? What do we do with the house? And what are we going to do with all this stuff?
After more than 20 years in Las Vegas real estate, I understand how important a home can be to a family. It may represent decades of memories, a source of security, and the financial resource needed to pay for future care. That is why families should explore their options before making rushed decisions.
Working in association with Senior Resource Nevada, our role is to help simplify the entire transition. We begin by listening to the senior and family members, learning about care needs, preferences, location, and budget We can then help research appropriate senior-living communities, coordinate tours, answer questions, and provide guidance through the placement process.
We can also help families address the home, belongings, downsizing, repairs, preparation for sale, and other details that can quickly become overwhelming
The surprising news for many families is that our seniorliving placement guidance is available at no cost to the senior or family.
When a placement is made, the senior-living community typically pays the referral fee. Any real estate services are handled separately and discussed clearly in advance.
A senior transition does not have to become a crisis. The earlier a family begins the conversation, the more choices it will have.
LyndonHoldemanisaLasVegasrealestateprofessionalwithmorethan20yearsof experiencehelpingindividualsandfamiliesnavigateimportantrealestatedecisions. ThroughHoldemanRealtyGroup,hehasexpandedhisworktoincludesenior transitionguidance,helpingfamiliesexplorecareoptionsandaddressthepractical andemotionalchallengesthatoftenarisewhenanaginglovedoneneedsadditional support.LyndonisalsoactivelyinvolvedinstrengtheningtheLasVegascommunity throughSupportLocalLLCandtheSupportLocalFoundation,organizations dedicatedtobuildingrelationships,supportinglocalbusinesses,andgivingbackto thecommunity.NVLicense#BS.0146633
MedicallyreviewedbyDr.NicoleGregorio,DNP,APRN,PMHNP-BC,ArborWellnessMentalHealthcare (readmoretipsforanxietyandADHDhere)
HowdoIknowifmyson’sanxietyisanormaladjustment orasignit'stimetoseekhelp?
TriciaA.
First, take a breath a couple of hard years is a lot to carry, for him and for you. A little morning nervousness is normal and usually eases within a week or two once the routine settles back in. What tells us it may be more than adjustment is the pattern:
anxiety that sticks around past two or three weeks stomachaches or headaches that show up on school mornings but melt away on weekends foot-dragging or outright refusal dread that starts creeping in on Sunday nights
Whether it’s him or the environment, it can be both. That’s exactly what a good evaluation helps sort out. We look at whether the worry follows him everywhere or is tied specifically to that classroom or school.
In the meantime, talk with him calmly and loop in his teacher or school counselor for their view of his day. If those mornings still aren’t easing by mid-September, that’s a good moment for a professional set of eyes A psychiatric evaluation can pinpoint what’s actually driving the anxiety and map out the right support, either psychotherapy, medication, or a combination of the two
About Arbor Wellness Mental Healthcare
Arbor Wellness serves children, teens, and adults across Nevada, in person and by telehealth Voted a 2025 Best of Las Vegas triple winner, the team provides personalized, whole-person psychiatric care, with a focus on expert medication management, for ADHD, anxiety, depression, and more Read more here
Museum of Ice Cream
July 3
3215 S. Rancho Grand opening of a sweet adventure at Area15. Discover the magic of ice cream.
Mini Mogul Market
July 11
1717 S. Decatur Blvd.
Local kid entrepreneurs sell their handmade treasures and curated items. Discover unique items, and get a goody bag
Patriotic Parade
July 4
Hills Center Dr. The 32nd annual Summerlin
Council Patriotic Parade features balloons, floats and a big red fire truck!
Movie in the Park
July 18
1600
Honeysuckle St. Head to Pahrump for a free viewing of “The Bad Guys 2” at Ian Deutch Memorial Park
There will be a snack bar Bring your own blanket or low-back chair
4th of July at Heritage Park
July 4
350 S. Racetrack Henderson celebrates with entertainment from Collin Raye, family games and fireworks.
Build a Mini Toy Box
July 18
2875 E. Charleston Blvd. Have a fun time with a DIY project at Lowes Kids will build and decorate a storage box with compartments for their favorite keepsakes
Free Public Skating
July 11
222 S. Water St. Beat the heat, and get on the ice at the America First Center. All ages and levels are welcome.
Sensory
Friendly HoursSpy Ninjas HQ
July 29
7980 W. Sahara Ave.
Enjoy Spy Ninjas HQ attractions with a calmer environment No music, muted or lowered arcade sounds, and adjusted lights
This month, our shop is bursting with spring fun, activities, local flora and fauna study units, planners to clean your whole house without the whining and, of course, coloring pages!
Not subscribed yet? Join our community of creative families and grab your free bundle today.
BY KINGSTYN MAJORS
Photos:Flav+HilaryKnightfromthewomen'sOlympicHockeyteamatCannesthisweektalkingaboutSHEWeekend Page25:,Jamie McCormick,seniorbrandpartnershipsleadatTheGist
Hosted by rapper and longtime women's sports advocate Flavor Flav, SHE Weekend July 16–19 honors female athletes, Olympians, and Paralympians. The event features a public parade on the Strip, concerts, community events, and opportunities for fans to celebrate the accomplishments of women in sports. SHE Weekend shines a spotlight on female athletes and inspires the next generation of girls to dream big, compete boldly, and be recognized for their achievements. VegasFamilyInsider|Page25
Pajama day is often, along with crazy hair day. ready for anyone who dares ask how your kids get socialized. Had 1+ sleepless (and useless) nights wondering if you ’ re doing it right.
Count park or skate day as p.e.
Held back (or didn't) when a stranger commented on the perils of homeschooling.
Bought too much curriculum.
Ditched a curriculum even though you paid too much for it.
Used baking as a math unit.
You own a well-used laminator.
3orless–Welcomenewbie!Findyourgroupsandtakeiteasyonyourself.
6-4-You’regettingthere!Introduceyourkidstosecondbreakfastandenjoyyourschoolday 7+–Seasonedandsaltyhomeschooler! CanIborrowthatcurriculumyouaren'tusing?
Homeschool tips every Sunday @vegasfamilyinsider Giveyourselfonepointforeach"Oh,Yah,That'sme "
Public schools. Charter schools. Microschools. Homeschooling Hybrid learning Career and technical programs. Dual enrollment.
With so many options available, many parents are asking the same question: What's the right fit for my child?
What we discovered was encouraging While families choose different educational paths public school, charter school, private school, homeschool, microschool, dual enrollment, and beyond they often share the same goal: raising confident, capable young people who are ready for whatever comes next
The voices that follow offer insights, experiences, and perspectives from across Southern Nevada We hope they help answer questions, spark conversations, and remind you that there are many ways for children to thrive.
Whether children attend public school, charter school, homeschool, microschool, or private school, many families are looking beyond grades and test scores. They're asking whether students are learning how to think, collaborate, communicate, and innovate in a rapidly changing world.
Success in the AI era includes skills that help people work alongside technology rather than compete with it. Employers will increasingly value creativity, communication, critical thinking and the ability to solve complex problems.
As technology advances, Estelle Azemard, CEO of Leaseweb Canada, believes education must evolve as well, noting engineers are helping shape what the future looks like.
"The challenges we're facing are not getting less complicated, they're growing We need more innovators. We need more people willing to tackle difficult problems in new ways."
Chrissay Brinkmann, Sales Support & Technical Delivery at Leaseweb USA, said one of the most valuable skills students can develop is the willingness to keep learning.
"Technology advances, expectations change, and suddenly there's a new problem waiting for you," she said. "You're constantly learning, adapting, and figuring things out."
If you're exploring what's next for your child, we've done the homework for you.
Click to discover:
• Local Microschools
• Montessori schools
• Charter Schools
• Homeschool groups & co-ops
• Alternative education resources
Explore Your Options
Microschools, Montessori programs and Charter Schools in Southern Nevada
Because every child deserves a learning environment where they can thrive.
Local non-profit surrounds students with a network of support so they can stay in school, graduate, and prepare for their next chapter.
B E Y O N D T H E C L A S S R O O M
Many local CIS programs report graduation rates above 95%.
ByMichaelSanchez,ownerLasVegasHomeschoolResourceCenter
My wife Nancy and I opened up The Las Vegas Homeschool Resource Center in March and have had the opportunity to meet with many vendors and many more homeschool parents. There are still, however, many people who have a hard time grasping what homeschool is.
Let me bring a little clarity.
Public school has their standard, a one-size-fits-all approach. The problem with that approach is that humanity is not a one-size-fits-all and neither do we all learn at the same pace or in the same way
The beauty of homeschooling is that parents can customize their child’s learning experience in a way that sets their child up for a successful journey into education. There are no time tables, there is no definitive course. You can pivot at any moment if and when need be.
A parent can personalize the subjects and lessons to fit the child’s interest. A parent can get creative with the concepts they teach their children and can personalize the goals they want their child to attain. A parent can advance their child the moment they have mastered any topic or subject and provide new concepts and challenges.
Homeschooling is an opportunity to build and grow a child’s confidence.
H O M E S C H O O L I N G
With flexible schedules, a child’s confidence can flourish as they learn to navigate uncertainties and adapt to changes calmly. With flexible schedules, children are able to problem solve and handle unexpected challenges.
Homeschooling also provides a child with the benefit of task ownership. A child can take in all the choices presented to them and decide which is the best for them in that moment It could be a book to read, a subject to learn more or the amount of time to spend on each task. This builds a child’s confidence as they learn to selfdirect their focus.
A parent can get really creative in teaching their child and a child can benefit greatly from learning in a way that caters to their style of learning instead of being in an environment that only fosters a one-way-for-all method.
Homeschooling in Nevada is considered one of the easiest states to because there is little oversight.
Stepping outside of the system to seek solace and success.
ByNatashaM.Shannon
For our family, choosing to homeschool wasn't really about finding a better curriculum or a specific teaching style. It was honestly just an act of protection When you reach a point where the school environment stops being a safe place for your child to just exist, the choice becomes clear. I realized the system was not prioritizing her well-being at all.
p p
H O M E S C H O O L I N G
My experience with the public school system, specifically, here in Nevada (Las Vegas), was really tough. It felt like a system that talked a big game about zero tolerance policies, but in reality, that hypocrisy meant the burden of fixing things was always on the victim, never the aggressor. Whether it was the lack of support regarding bullying, the dismissiveness when it came to racial incidents, or the terrifying silence from administration during actual safety crises, it became clear the district was not interested in protecting the students.
When you find yourself having to fight for your child's right to just be safe and the administration keeps telling you their hands are tied, you start to realize the system is broken. It stopped being about her getting an education and started feeling like a battle for survival.
Trust your gut. We are conditioned to think we have to defer to the authorities of the school system, but nobody knows your child like you do. If you feel like your child is unsafe, unheard, or being let down by the rules on paper, pay attention to that.
Do not wait for the system to magically change or for things to get better, because they might not. Your child's mental health and safety are worth way more than a conventional path. If their current school is causing them harm know that you have the power to step out and
83% of homeschooling parents made the choice du to concerns over safety, bullying or drugs.
For Rashid and Kasey Green, choosing public school wasn't their original plan, but it was the path that made the most sense for their family.
When we first embarked on our eldest son's educational journey, we were presented with the picture of a child who required professional intervention We had brought him to a private preschool, and his ability to separate from us wasn't on par with most of the other kids. We tried a range of charter and private schools in KCMO and were never presented with a plan to help Zephyr thrive in a learning environment
We earned too much to qualify for financial aid but not enough to afford the extra help we would have needed had he started at the private school, and the charters didn't have adequate resources to help us either So we did what we could to help Zeph progress in a home environment before he began attending a public school. We thought we could "redshirt" him and ease his way into a classroom, but as it turned out, the school placed him in 1st grade due to his age. It was rough at first, but it was worth the hard work of helping him adjust and watching him bloom!
We love the teachers and administrators we've had the pleasure of interacting with. I had read horror stories about CCSD on social media, but I can say with full confidence that we have yet to encounter a single employee who doesn't seem to have the best intentions for every student. We do wish the programs were more plentiful, but for a family working its butt off to get by, the staff at our local elementary has worked equally hard to get Zeph on a positive academic track.
What would you like to see offered for local education programs?
I would like to see more local education programs that blend creativity, practical skills, and modern technology. Specifically, I’d love to see workshops that focus on creative writing, storytelling, and personal empowerment alongside hands-on art forms like 3D design and 3D printing. These programs should offer access to tools and techniques while also creating space for reflection, community-building, and genuine self-expression. We are developing our Creative Hero Forge concept in direct response to how eager people are to learn new skills and connect with others
I've spent years working in education. I believe deeply in teachers. I know how hard they work, and I know most educators show up every day because they genuinely care about kids
That's why I never imagined I would choose a microschool for my own child.
As a teacher at a local middle school, I see firsthand how much education has changed. Many students are wonderful, engaged, and eager to learn. But classrooms are also being asked to manage increasing behavioral challenges, larger emotional needs, and disruptions that can make learning difficult for everyone involved
At the same time, my own child was struggling in elementary school. By third grade, there were frequent classroom interruptions, behavioral incidents, and social challenges affecting my child’s learning and confidence. My child started talking less about what they learned and more about what happened around them
As both a parent and an educator, I found myself asking a difficult question: If students are spending so much energy navigating distractions, conflict, and uncertainty, how much learning is actually taking place?
I don't blame teachers. I have more empathy for them than ever. They are being asked to do an impossible job at times, such as educate, counsel, manage behavior, address mental health concerns, and somehow still meet academic goals
I C R O S C H O O L I N G
What if one of the best educations a young person could receivewasn'taclass butabusiness? Running a business teaches lessons that are difficult to recreate in a traditional classroom.
"The core skills required for entrepreneurs to have success are also very important skills in the changing world that we live in," said Barry De Vilbiss, Vice Chair SCORE Las Vegas Chapter. "Traditional school curriculums are generally geared toward one particular point of view and are frequently risk averse. Entrepreneurial skills center around relentless curiosity, high adaptability, connective communication, and a bias toward acting and testing. "
"Young people gain practical, hands-on experience in financial management, marketing, and customer service," Hartley said "They learn to navigate real-world challenges, adapt to changing circumstances, and see the direct impact of their decisions." B E Y O N D T H E C L A S S R O O
Janet D. Hartley, Nevada District Director for SCORE Las Vegas, says entrepreneurship gives young people something equally valuable: experience.
Both mentors agree that the greatest lessons often come when things don't go as planned.
"Entrepreneurialexperiencesfostercriticalthinking,innovation,andadaptability,"Hartleysaid. "Theyencourageagrowthmindset,wherestudentslearntoviewfailuresasopportunitiesfor growth."
Employersincreasinglyvalueyoungpeoplewhohaveentrepreneurialexperiencebecausethey've alreadypracticedcollaboration,communication,problem-solving,andadaptingunderpressure. Forbothmentors,curiositymaybethemostunderratedskillofall.
"Alwaysasking'Why?'WhatneedsorproblemscanIsolve?Teachingyourselfnewskills,tackling problemsratherthanrunningfromthem,andinsertingempathyintowhatyouinvestigate thosequalitieshaverelevancetoentrepreneursofanyage,"DeVilbisssaid.
Hartleyaddsthatonesubjectdeservesfarmoreattentionbeforestudentsgraduate:financial literacy.
"Graspingthefundamentalsoffinanceisessential,"shesays."Financialliteracyempowersyoung peopletomakeinformeddecisionsandbetternavigatethebusinessworld."
About
two-thirds of today's elementary students are expected to work in careers that don't yet exist.
ByCathyOglesby
After more than 20 years in education and a mom of “outside the box” kids, I found myself asking a difficult question: If I could design the ideal learning experience for my own children, what would it look like?
The answer wasn't more worksheets, more test prep, or more time sitting at a desk.
I wanted them to read great books, ask big questions, solve real problems, build meaningful relationships, and discover their unique strengths.
Most importantly, I wanted them to see learning as something that happens everywhere, not just inside a classroom. That vision led me to create Whole Life School, an online community where students explore literature, entrepreneurship, AI, life skills, and real-world learning through hands-on projects and discussion.
Instead of focusing on grades and compliance, we focus on curiosity, creativity, communication, and the skills young people need to thrive.
One of my favorite examples is our Youth Entrepreneur Program (Launch Lab) Recently, my son helped create marketing materials, set up QR codes, and design products for our family business.
He wasn't completing an assignment about entrepreneurship, he was living it.
Through real business experiences, students learn communication, problem-solving, financial literacy, responsibility, and confidence in ways that simply can't be replicated by a worksheet. I don't believe there is one right educational path for every child. Public school, private school, homeschooling, microschools, online learning, and hybrid models can all be wonderful choices.
My goal is simply to help families create learning experiences that fit their children and prepare them for the future.
Because education isn't just about preparing kids for tests. It's about preparing them for life.
B E Y O N D T H E C L A S S R O O M
About 6% of Nevada students are homeschooled, more than double the rate before the pandemic.
ByLeighaKirkpatrickCertifiedDivorceRealEstate
One of the biggest misconceptions about real estate is that it's simply about buying or selling a home In reality, every move begins long before a sign goes in the yard or an offer is accepted. As both a Certified Divorce Real Estate Expert (CDRE) and Realtor, I've found that the most successful transactions happen when we look beyond the property and focus on the person making the decision.
Here’s framework that helps clients, attorneys, and families navigate life's transitions with clarity and confidence.
At the end of the day, people don't move because of interest rates alone. They move because life changes. When the motivation is clear, the finances are sound, the mindset is ready, the market is understood, the strategy is solid, momentum is maintained, and the deeper meaning is honored, confident decisions naturally follow.
My role is to bring all seven pieces together, helping every client move forward with clarity, confidence, and the peace of mind that comes from knowing they have a trusted advocate by their side.
In this thoughtful essay, a Jr. Journalist reflects on the courage of America's founders, the sacrifices of generations past, and the shared responsibility of preserving our nation's ideals for the future.
ByLewisLayton,Jr.Journalist
The Declaration of Independence is much more than a name.
It is a symbol of American democracy. It signifies the sacrifices of not just the delegates who signed it, but the brave soldiers who fought to defend it, and the men and women today who still fight for our independence.
It doesn't just represent American freedom, but it represents our people.
From the families who sailed to America for freedom of speech and religion, to the courageous settlers who went through long winters and harsh summers to tame the great American west, our Declaration of Independence shows throughout our entire nation, and to the world.
We should continue to uphold our values of integrity, strength, and perseverance, and always remember the words of our Declaration that we still stand upon.
As we near our 250th anniversary of being a country, let us strive to be freer, let us strive to be greater, and let us strive always to be the great nation all around the world recognized as the United States of America.
Patriotic
Tic-Tac-Toe
Word
Coloring Pages
Charades
Playdough Mats
Startthismonthforafruitfulfall!
ByJenGammonsMujica
Prepare a garden space with at least 12-18 inches of good organic soil (in a raised bed orin-groundgarden)
Install drip irrigation lines 8-10 inches apart along your garden with drip holes every6inches.
Plantpumpkinseedsinagroupof3-5seeds shaped like a triangle or octagon Plant the seeds around a dripper hole in the irrigationlines.
If your seeds are just 6 inches away from your drip hole, they won’t get enough water to germinate. So be careful and plant seeds with your children so they are close enoughtotheholesintheirrigationline
Plant another group of seeds at least 4 feet away from the first group of seeds. Keep planting pumpkin seeds all around your gardenspace
YouwillhaveapumpkinpatchbyOctober!
Pumpkin vines grow really long. They will trail for 20 feet all over your backyard. Let them grow, and they will produce big pumpkinstohuntinthefallseason.
How to turn kitchen scraps into thriving desert gardens.
household waste, and create healthier ecosystems.
"I love helping people see dirt not as something dead or useless, but as the beginning of something vibrant and alive, especially here in the desert,” he said. “Worms and good soil really can change everything."
For many people, worms are simply wiggly creatures found after a rainstorm. Wichter sees them differently.
"Worms are like tiny construction workers," he explained "People think they eat dirt, but they're actually munching on old leaves, vegetable scraps, and anything that used to grow."
As worms digest those materials, they produce worm castings, a nutrient-rich, all-natural fertilizer packed with beneficial microbes that help plants thrive. Their constant movement also creates tiny tunnels throughout the soil, allowing air, water, and nutrients to reach plant roots more effectively.
The process, known as vermicomposting, is surprisingly simple for families to try at home. Wichter recommends starting with a small bin filled with damp shredded newspaper or cardboard, adding a handful of kitchen scraps, and introducing red wigglers, his preferred composting worm for Southern Nevada's climate.
"Keep it damp, like a wrung-out sponge," he said, adding that one of the most common mistakes beginners make is overfeeding their worms "Let the worms do what they do best, and soon you'll have dark, rich compost to mix into your garden beds or potted plants."
For Wichter, the reward isn't just producing better soil it's watching families realize that even in the middle of the desert, life begins beneath their feet.
Deals to elevate your home this season
SuThe best summer upgrades aren't always the biggest ones. Sometimes it's the little things that make everyday moments easier, cooler, and a lot more fun. Here are a few simple finds to help you make the most of the season.
At the pool, cheering from the sidelines, waiting in line at a summer festival, or hanging at the park, this portable fan delivers cool.
Healthy and easy, smoothies are a quick way to cool down and add a little extra nutrition.
Bright, cheerful sponges add a little personality to your kitchen and make tackling dishes feel just a bit less like a chore.
A compact powerhouse for clearing patios, drying your car, blowing leaves, or cleaning the workshop.
Treat yourself this summer and hire a professional to swipe the dust from those blinds and do all the dirty work while you chill! Professional cleaners free up your time, allowing you to focus on work, family, hobbies, or simply relaxing without the stress of cleaning. They also do it better! Maid services employ trained professionals who know the best techniques and products to use, ensuring a thorough and efficient clean.
Picky Performance Cleaning is offering 4 hours of maid service for $150 when you mention VKZ!
Get 4 hours of house cleaning for $150 when you mention VKZ!
Soft, fluffy and fun to make, cheesy garlic knots are a breeze to throw together with kids in the kitchen! They get very excited to show their friends how they can make this beautiful dish for lunch. This is almost as easy as the Rainbow Cheesecake Bars that were the top kids recipe last year in The Homeschool Cafe!
Dough
1 can Grands Biscuits
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garlic butter sauce
1-2 Tbsp. unsalted butter, melted
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp. garlic paste
1/2 tsp. Italian seasoning
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Combine dough ingredients in bowl (minus 1-2 tsp. mozzarella cheese) Split the biscuits in half and lightly stretch dough. Then add a handful (1-2 tsp.) of mozzarella cheese. Tuck and fold the biscuit dough over and roll in your hands to ensure the cheese won’t seep out Spray pan with butter spray or butter the pan
Mix together the ingredients for the garlic butter sauce and brush balls with butter. Sprinkle with salt. Bake for 18-20 mins. (check around 15 min.). Brush with garlic sauce after they’re done Serve warm and enjoy If you reheat in the microwave, cover with a cloth towel with a spritz of water, and they should fluff right back up.
By Heather Wikle Gonzales at fearlessfaithfulmom.com
Have you ever had one of those moments where you see a new kitchen tool in an Instagram video and you just have to have it? That was me a few years ago when I saw waffle bowl machines for the first time. I was instantly obsessed! So of course I went right to work dropping hints to my family so that they’d get me one for my birthday.
Since I’m not so terribly subtle about gifts I got TWO waffle bowl makers, which is perfect for our big family! Now they’re one of my kids’ favorite breakfast treats. The best part about waffle bowls is that they are the perfect vessel for whatever you’re craving. You can fill them with yogurt and berries, fried chicken, lemon curd and whipped cream, or whatever your family loves.
2½cups(615ml)litecoconutmilk(or othersafe-for-youmilk)
2tbspvinegar
⅛tspsalt
6tbsp(90g)sugar
3tbsp(40g)powderedeggreplacer(such asBob’sRedMillbrand)
¾tspxanthangum(omitifyourflourmix containsit)
1½tbspbakingpowder
2¾cup(330g)GFflourmix
¼cup(35g)cornstarch
3tbspmaplesyrup
1½tspvanillaextract
¼cupneutraloil
1.Stirtogetheryourcoconutmilkandvinegarandsetitaside.
2.Stirthesyrup,vanillaextract,andoilintothecoconutmilk.
3 Whisktogetherallofyourdryingredients
4.Pluginyourwafflebowlmakerandallowittopreheat.
5 Stirthewetingredientsintothedryones
6.Cookinyourwafflebowlmakerbasedonthemanufacturerinstructions.
Traveling this summer?
Take us with you! We have free games, travel planners for Disney and resources for kids and parents!
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When the temperatures climb, there's only one question that matters: Which pool are we heading to this weekend?
Lucky for us, Southern Nevada is packed with incredible places to cool off.
From sandy beaches and lazy rivers to splash zones and resortstyle escapes, local families have plenty of favorites. Whether you're planning a staycation, celebrating a birthday, or simply looking for a way to survive another triple-digit day, there's a pool for every kind of summer adventure.
We've rounded up the local favorites including hidden gems, family-friendly resorts, and the lazy rivers everyone talks about so that you can spend less time searching and more time splashing.
Ready to dive in? Scan the QR code or visit the link to explore our complete guide to the Top 7 Las Vegas Pools and Lazy Rivers, complete with tips, photos, and everything you need to plan your next pool day.
Click here for the full list!
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