Kids in the Garden Successisnotasecret withtheseprotips
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.
This month, our shop is bursting with spring fun, activities, local flora and fauna study units and planners to clean your whole house without the whining! Not subscribed yet? Join our community of creative families and grab your free Valentine’s Day bundle today
At the Fantastic Indoor Swap Meet every second Saturday, something new is happening alongside the booths, products, and proud young business owners Vegas Kids Zone has launched a monthly show right from the Kidpreneur Market floor, and it is quickly becoming one of the most fun parts of the day
The show is hosted by a rotating group of VKZ kidpreneurs, including Trinity Lee, Teddy Jimenez, and other familiar faces from the markets Instead of adults doing all the interviewing, the kids take the lead, asking questions, sharing laughs, and getting real stories from local entrepreneurs, community leaders, entertainers, and fellow young business owners
Listeners get to hear how businesses start, what challenges people face, and what keeps them going The conversations are curious, honest, and sometimes surprisingly insightful because the questions come straight from kids who are building businesses themselves
The podcast also captures the spirit of the Kidpreneur Market It is energetic, supportive, and full of creativity Vendors cheer each other on, new ideas are shared, and young founders see what is possible when someone gives them a microphone and a little encouragement
It is one more way Vegas Kids Zone turns a market into a platform for confidence, leadership, and big dreams
Clickhere for aexamples andmore dvice!
Fuel your child’s big ideas with this dynamic duo! The Kidpreneur Starter Kit and companion Goal-Setting Workbook turns those dreams into action! Help your young entrepreneur set smart targets, track progress, and celebrate wins.
FREE FOOD, DRINKS,& DISCOUNTS ON YOUR BIRTHDAY
FREE BIRTHDAY SWAGMAP
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!
VIEW ENTIRE LIST, CLICK HERE
IT’S A DINO DAY
If you have a March birthday kid who loves dinosaurs, you are in luck. A dino-themed party is one of the easiest themes to pull together and it works for a wide range of ages
Wake up to a mini prehistoric world Use green streamers as vines, scatter plastic dinosaurs on the tables, and add a few inexpensive plants to create a jungle vibe A sandbox or bin filled with kinetic sand can become a “fossil dig” where kids uncover hidden bones, toy dinos, or small prizes.
Then head over to Dinosaur Outpost where kids can step into a prehistoric world filled with lifesize dinosaurs, interactive exhibits, and plenty of photo opportunities. It is the kind of outing that instantly makes a birthday feel like an adventure. After exploring with the T-rex and triceratops, keep the celebration going with a few simple dinothemed activities at home or at the park.
March also brings a fun bonus for dinosaur fans Families can stop by the Vegas Kids Zone Kidpreneur Market on March 14 at the Fantastic Indoor Swap Meet. During the market, there will be two chances to win a fourpack of tickets to Dinosaur Outpost, with drawings at noon and again at 2 p.m.
It is a great excuse to celebrate a birthday, support young entrepreneurs, and maybe walk away with a prehistoric adventure waiting for you
VKZ OUT & ABOUT
Creating opportunities for kids and parents every month!
March always feels like a reset bu The air shifts The light lingers a l longer And for me, it's a reminde growth rarely happens by staying same place
When you're raising a neurodivergent child, you're handed a very specific box of tools Evaluations IEP meetings
Occupational therapy Speech therapy
ABA Medications Specialists Schedules Effort. So much effort.
Let me say this clearly: that box matters Western medicine is extraordinary in emergencies and life-saving interventions Therapists work tirelessly for our children Many families see meaningful progress through these supports.
We have too.
And what I've learned as a mom is this... sometimes that box isn't the whole story
Over the past few years, I've been quietly researching approaches rooted in neuroscience and neuroplasticity, the brain's ability to reorganize and change
Not "woo." Not wishful thinking. Science. One space that caught my attention is the work of Dr Joe Dispenza Through advanced meditation and heart-brain coherence practices, his team has partnered with researchers to measure physiological changes in the brain and autonomic nervous system.
Families have reported improvements in regulation, sleep, communication, and social engagement after structured coherence healing sessions
The data emerging from these retreats and remote sessions is compelling enough that this March, we're attending one with our son Not instead of everything else but in addition to it
I also deeply respect the work of Dr Robert Melillo, whose research focuses on hemispheric imbalance, primitive reflexes, and functional brain connectivity in autism and ADHD We've worked with him personally and experienced powerful results His work reinforces something hopeful: the brain can change
That possibility changes everything We're currently building a space called Jacob's Ladder a place dedicated to exploring a different approach for neurodivergent kiddos Not to replace what exists. But to expand it. To widen the lens To offer families options that are rooted in science and possibility
If you're curious, have questions, or simply need someone to talk to, reach out to me at heather@jacobsladderlove I'm always happy to share what we're learning.
Shhh… this is just between us and, well, the other 49,999 readers.
We quietly redesigned the site, and while it hasn’t officially launched yet, we’d love your help giving it a test drive. Check out our Directory!
You may spot a few bugs (they’re shy, but they’re in there). If you find one, email us at Info@vegaskidszone.com, and you’ll automatically be entered to win a $50 Lazy Dog gift card. Every email counts as an entry, so the more you spot, the better your odds.
Disney magic doesn’t happen just at the parks. With just a bit of prep, you can create a day full of Disney magic right at home (No Magic Bands required!)
orning
fternoon
Start your morning with a taste of Disney If you’ve ever wondered why Disney waffles taste so good, the secret is Golden Malted It’s the same mix used in Disney resorts and parks, and yes, you can order it for your own kitchen Break out the waffle maker, add a toppings bar, and suddenly breakfast feels a lot more like a vacation morning
After breakfast, it’s time for a Disney+ movie marathon. Sure, you could bounce randomly between movies but choosing a theme makes your marathon feel special Have you watched all of the OG Disney princess movies? Maybe you’d like to watch animated or liveaction movies that Walt Disney had a hand in With Toy Story 5 premiering this summer, a Toy Story rewatch marathon may be prime viewing.
Over lunch, try your hand at being a Disney sketch artist. The How-To Draw series on Disney Parks YouTube channel offers step-by-step drawing videos that teach you how to sketch more than 50 characters. All you need is paper, pencils, and a willingness to laugh at slightly wonky Mickey ears
As the afternoon movie marathon continues, it’s time for a snack that transports you straight to the parks Swing by the freezer section the next time you’re at the grocery store for Mickey-shaped ice cream bars. If you want something extra special and already own an ice cream maker, you can order Dole Whip mix for that iconic Adventureland treat at home.
For dinner, bring a little Disney flavor to the table with a copycat recipe inspired by your favorite park dish A quick online search will turn up everything from Hoop-DeDoo’s fried chicken to those oh-so-delicious ‘Ohana noodles to Walt’s special chili recipe Keep it simple or go ambitious You can even turn on themed music or a restaurant walk-through video to keep the atmosphere going.
After dinner, we like to ride our favorite attractions. One upside to being at home? No lines! Head back to the TV and queue up your favorites on POV videos
All good things must come to an end, and there’s no better end to a Disney day than with Disney fireworks Whether you’re watching a live stream or a recorded show on YouTube, it’s a pretty magical way to end the night.
VKZ KIDPRENEUR MAGAZINE
AChefonFire Vegasroots.Familylegacy.
The questionsonlyakidasked.
ByKingstynMajors
The first thing you notice about Chef Ellie Parker is the red hair
Before Chef Ellie ever earned a black jacket on Hell’s Kitchen, before she became executive chef at Main Street Provisions in Downtown Las Vegas, she was already an artist. She drew cartoons as a kid She painted Around 10 years old she picked up a guitar, and that turned into piano, drums, bass, and even a ukulele
At some point, Chef Ellie traded sheet music for menu boards
When Chef Ellie Parker talks about cooking, she does not describe it like a routine. She describes it like a composition
“It’s culinary art. It’s in the name,” Chef Ellie said.
Plating is visual balance Seasoning is blending color Texture is contrast You eat with your eyes first, and then your taste buds catch up.
That creative mindset showed up in one of the biggest moments of her career, the black jacket challenge
On Hell’s Kitchen, chefs had to create a dish inspired by their home state. Some competitors were gifted seafood Some had homes states with signature produce Nevada? No exported ingredients here As Chef Ellie put it, “We’re not an export state, we’re an import state.”
So instead of focusing on one ingredient, Chef Ellie focused on the landscape She created a maple-glazed pork chop with charred cauliflower and golden raisins in desert tones A bold red romesco sauce mirrored Red Rock Canyon. A spiced cashew crumble looked like sand. Pickled asparagus stood upright like cactus. It was strategic. It was thoughtful. It was Nevada on a plate
She actually demoted herself from a sous chef position on the Strip to become a line cook at Main Street Provisions. That decision required confidence and humility. Within three years, Chef Ellie worked her way up to executive chef
As an athlete and a business owner myself, that part hit differently
In sports, you cannot skip reps You cannot skip conditioning You cannot skip the early mornings and expect to dominate later In business, you cannot skip learning your systems, your mistakes, your fundamentals, and expect your foundation to hold. Watching Chef Ellie step down in order to step up was a reminder that real growth is not always highlight worthy.
Sometimes, saying yes to opportunity means saying yes to being uncomfortable. Sometimes, it means starting lower than you think you deserve so you can build something stronger long term
Seeing Chef Ellie put in the work, accept the grind, and stay locked in, even when it meant sacrificing ego, was encouraging It is proof that confidence is not about skipping levels It is about mastering them. That foundation shows up in the way Chef Ellie leads today
Her leadership style is balanced She leads by example. If the kitchen gets intense, her white coat gets dirty, too More than half of the staff she has hired are working in their first professional kitchen. Instead of shutting doors the way some chefs did to her early in her career, she opens them. She shares knowledge. She adapts her coaching style depending on the person. She gives people real opportunities.
And that matters more than people realize While Chef Ellie creates opportunity, she does not lower expectations
“I’d rather wait a little bit longer for it to be 100% perfect,” Chef Ellie said. “If it’s not right, it’s not right now.”
In other words, there is no such thing as halfway in her kitchen.
Chef Ellie is preparing to lead Hell's Kitchen at Foxwoods Resort Casino, representing Gordon Ramsay’s name on a national stage That responsibility is bigger than one restaurant.
Despite the national attention, Chef Ellie still returns to Northwest Career and Technical Academy to connect with culinary students She remembers exactly where she started, and she continues to invest in the next generation
The red hair might be the first thing you notice The black jacket might be what people remember
But the real story of Chef Ellie is discipline meeting creativity It is composure under pressure. It is understanding that leadership is not about yelling the loudest, but about producing the strongest results. Chef Ellie trusts her training She trusts her hands And she refuses to send anything out unless it represents her fully.
If it is not right, it is not right now. And that is exactly why she keeps rising
Kids Zone is not your usual Directory. We’re a Discovery!
Start exploring our Local Discovery Pages and uncover the businesses, activities, and family resources Las Vegas parents are already talking about.
From classes and camps to trusted services and hidden gems, it’s all waiting for you in one place. Click through and see what your family might discover next.
ThisWillRuinAllOtherFish&Chips
Levelupyourfishfry
ByKeshaTatro,TatroMedia
This elevated take on fish and chips comes with serious culinary credentials Chef Kesha Tatro created this version for her appearance on MasterChef, refining every detail to make the classic dish feel restaurant-worthy while still honoring its comforting roots Lightly brined cod, a crisp Pilsner batter, and perfectly seasoned chips come together in a dish that feels both nostalgic and elevated, making it a beautiful option for a Lent Friday meal.
The inspiration traces back to her time working at Gordon Ramsay Steak, where she adapted elements from the restaurant’s version and made it her own. By balancing technique with heart, Kesha transforms a humble seafood staple into something layered, thoughtful and memorable It is proof that tradition can be honored while still bringing bold flavor and professional polish to the table
Fish & Chips - Servings: 4-6
Prep Time: 40 - 50 minutes
Cook Time: 30 - 40 minutes
INGREDIENTS
Fish
6 (6 oz portions) Cod
4 ½ Tbsp Kosher Salt
2 Cups AP flour for dredging
Beer Batter -- 1.5 quarts
2 Cups AP Flour
1 Cup Cornstarch
1 Tbsp Baking Soda
2 Tbsp Kosher Salt
2 Bottles Pilsner
Chips
4 Large Russet Potatoes, Peeled
2 Tbsp Smoked Paprika
TT Kosher Salt
1/4 Cup Parsley, Chopped
Tartar Sauce
1 Cup Mayo
1 Cup Crème Fraiche
½ Cup Cornichons, Chopped
½ Cup Red Onions, Chopped
¼ Cup Capers, Chopped
2 Tbsp Lemon Juice and Zest
2 tsp Black Pepper, Ground
1 Tbsp Kosher Salt
2 tsp Granulated Sugar
Mushy Peas
2 Tbsp Olive oil
2 Tbsp Butter
3 Shallots, Chopped
3 Garlic Cloves, Chopped
6 Cups Fresh Peas
12 Mint Sprigs
Tt Kosher Salt
Tt Black Pepper, fresh ground
Beer Batter
Sift together the flour, cornstarch and baking soda in a medium size bowl Add the salt and whisk in the Pilsner making sure to whisk out the lumps leaving the batter consistency similar to a pancake batter.
Fish
Preheat portable fryer or large pot of canola oil to 350 degrees.
Dilute the dry ingredients in a Pyrex glass bowl Place portions of fish in a large Pyrex pan, pour salt water over and brine for 10 minutes Drain and pat dry
Dredge fish portions in the AP flour evenly, shaking off the excess Dip fish portions one at a time in the beer batter, shaking off the excess batter
Gently dip half of the fish into the hot oil and drag the fish back and forth 4 to 5 times before dropping the rest into the oil. Do not over crowd the oil with too many fish.
Fry fish for 5 – 7 minutes or until deep golden brown. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels. Season with salt.
Tartar Sauce
Mix all ingredients in a medium size bowl with a whisk Set aside
Chips
Preheat portable fryer or large pot of canola oil at 300 degrees
Cut the sides off each potato but keep the top and bottom ends uncut. Cut potatoes into ¼ inch pieces then cut each ¼ inch slice into ½ inch sticks. Rinse cut potatoes with cold water to wash off the starch and then let potatoes soak until ready to use.
Drain potatoes from water and pat dry on paper towels. Fry in 300 degree oil to blanch fries for 3 to 5 minutes or until inside is soft without coloring the outside. Drain blanched fries on paper towels Chill
Bring frying oil up to 350 degrees Cook fries again in the 350 degree oil to crisp and color the outside, about 3 to 5 minutes Remove from heat into a medium size bowl and season with paprika salt and parsley
Mushy Peas
Heat the oil and butter in a large sauce pot on medium heat. Add shallots and cook until translucent for 2 – 3 minutes. Add garlic and salt, bring down heat and cook gently for 5-7 minutes until soft.
Bring a large sauce pot of salted water to a boil. Add the peas and 8 sprigs of mint sprigs and cook until tender. Drain peas and discard the mint.
Add cooked peas with cooked shallot and garlic mixture and coarsely puree Season to taste, coarsely chop remaining mint leaves and add to pea mixture
Plate and serve!
Kesha Tatro is
an experienced food stylist, chef and culinary television producer.
Brown Sugar Chocolate Sablés
Butterybakesbestsharedwiththewholefamily
ByMicaGlass,ownerofStone&Whisk
Yield: About 24 cookies
Prep Time: 20 minutes Chill Time: 1–2 hours
Bake Time: 14–16 minutes
Ingredients
Some cookies are complicated.
These are not.
Brown Sugar Chocolate Sablés by Stone & Whisk are the kind of recipe parents quietly celebrate because they feel a little fancy but come together without drama.
The dough can be made ahead, tucked into the fridge or freezer
Kids can jump in for the fun part, rolling the dough in sugar before baking, while the oven does the rest of the work
What comes out is a buttery cookie with crisp caramelized edges and little pockets of dark chocolate that make the kitchen smell like a bakery.
Ingredients:
227 g (1 cup / 2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature
190 g (¾ cup + 2 Tbsp) granulated sugar
½ teaspoon kosher salt
1 large egg yolk
20 g (1 Tbsp + 1 tsp) whole milk
10 g (2 tsp) pure maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
284 g (2¼ cups, spooned and leveled) all-purpose flour
57 g (about ⅓ cup) bittersweet chocolate, finely chopped
100 g (about ½ cup, packed) light brown sugar, for rolling
Instructions
1. Mix the wet ingredients. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk, milk, maple syrup, and vanilla
3 Combine Reduce the mixer speed to low and gradually add the milk mixture, mixing until fully incorporated.
4 Add the flour and chocolate Add the flour and mix on low speed just until combined. Stir in the chopped chocolate. Avoid overmixing.
5. Shape and chill. Form the dough into a log about 1½ inches in diameter. Wrap tightly in parchment paper and refrigerate for 1–2 hours, until firm
6 Preheat the oven Heat oven to 350°F Line two baking sheets with parchment paper
7 Coat and slice Lightly brush the outside of the chilled log with water and roll in the brown sugar. Let rest at room temperature for 5–10 minutes, then slice into ½-inch rounds
8 Bake Arrange cookies about 1 inch apart on prepared baking sheets Bake for 14–16 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden
9 Cool Allow cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
IT'S NOT THE MARKET —
IT'S THE MOMENT
The 3 M's That Determine Whether You Are Truly Ready to Buy a Home
ByLeighaKirkpatrickCertifiedDivorceRealEstate
Most people think buying a home is mainly about the market interest rates, prices, inventory, or timing.
But after working with families in every stage of life, I've noticed something surprising Two households can qualify for the same loan, look at the same homes, and have the same budget yet one confidently buys within weeks while the other searches for a year and still feels unsure.
The difference usually isn't the market.
It's the moment.
Buying a home is often treated as a financial decision, but in reality, it's a life decision. A home purchase sits at the intersection of money, family, security, and future plans. Because of that, readiness involves more than a pre-approval letter.
I explain this to clients using what I call the 3 M's of Homebuying: Motivation, Money, and Method all supported by mindset
Motivation answers one simple question: Why are you moving?
Every purchase begins with a life change Sometimes it's exciting a growing family, better schools, or a new job Other times it's difficult loss, divorce, health changes, or financial strain
When your reason for moving is clear, decisions become easier When it isn't, every home feels "almost right," but never quite certain Money is about more than qualifying for a mortgage
A lender determines what you're approved to borrow You decide what you feel safe living with. Financial readiness means being comfortable enough that normal bumps inspections, repairs, or appraisals don't create panic. It's not just about affording the house It's about sleeping peacefully after you own it
Method refers to how you're buying Loan type, contingencies, and timing all shape your experience Two buyers offering the same price can have very different outcomes simply because their purchase method carries different levels of risk for a seller.
Then there's the missing piece: mindset.
Motivation explains why you want to move. Money shows whether you can afford to Method explains how you'll buy. But mindset determines whether you can decide
Many people wait for the perfect house or the perfect market In reality, certainty rarely comes before a decision it usually follows one
When motivation is clear, finances feel safe, expectations align, and mindset catches up, the process often changes quickly
It wasn't the interest rate It wasn't inventory.
More often than people realize, it's not the market — it's the moment.
Little Rescue That Could
How Vegas Roots Rescue Makes a Difference
BySamSchierholz
Forsomepeople,volunteeringscratchestheitchtohelp.For Lauren Mushkin and Brittany Davis, it only made the itch worse.
Afterspendingtimevolunteeringwithalocalanimalrescue, the two friends realized something. Showing up was great, buttheywantedtodomore Muchmore
So in September 2019, they decided to build something of their own. Armed with business experience, determination, and a lot of love for scruffy underdogs, the pair started the processofforminganonprofit,VegasRootsRescue
“Didn't even go as planned, which is the true epitome of rescue,”Mushkinsaid.“It'sneverplanned.”
Within a week of launching Vegas Roots Rescue, they had alreadyrescuedtheirfirstanimal
Today, their organization operates as a small but mighty two-woman team focused on animals that manyothersoverlook.
“We are a two-woman operated rescue that focuses on helping animals that have been abused and neglectedandabandonedandareoftentimesinapositiontobeeuthanized,”Mushkinsaid
Over the past several years, their mission has grown beyond just the two of them. A network of dedicated fosters now helps care for everything from senior dogs and new moms with puppies to energeticyoungpupswhojustneedasecondchance.
Most of their rescues come from Las Vegas, but the team also travels to rural high-desert shelters where overcrowding puts many dogs at risk
“I've went to the high kill shelters over there and rescued 10 dogs and then rescued seven the next day from the Animal Foundation,” Mushkin said.
One of those lucky dogs was a pup named Scrooge. When he first arrived at the shelter, the 1-year-old dog was in rough shape. He had lost most of his hair, had visible trauma to his face, and one of his eyes had been sutured closed He was scared, uncomfortable, and quick to snap at anyone who came near his kennel.
But rescue stories rarely end where they begin
“He went from trying to bite people in his cage to living the best life ever,” Mushkin said. With patience, medical care, and a whole lot of love, Scrooge slowly came back to life His fur grew back. His personality softened. “Now he's just, like, the cutest little furball ever That was just time, consistency and love”
Scrooge is far from the only success story.
Because Vegas Roots Rescue operates entirely through foster homes and doesn’t have a physical shelter, the group is always looking for people willing to open their homes temporarily. Donations are just as critical, helping cover the often-expensive medical care many rescues need before they’re ready for adoption
And sometimes those costs are steep.
“Some people might say, with $1,000, you might be able to rescue four dogs rather than pouring that $1,000 into one dog,” Mushkin said “But our perspective is that every dog deserves a chance.”
Vegas Roots Rescue is the rescue partner for Market in the Alley, and you can find them at The District at Green Valley Ranch and The Uncommons For a list of Vegas Roots Rescue events, go here.
They also have some unique events coming up, such as Puppy Yoga on March 8 and Pilates and Puppies on March 15
On April 12, they’re hosting their second annual Dinks for the Dogs, which is a pickleball tournament at Chicken and Pickle.
DIGGINGIN
Why Desert Kids Need to Learn to Garden!
ByJoJamiTyler
The first time a child pulls a carrot from the soil dirt still clinging to the roots something clicks. This did not come from a store. They grew it. Moments like that stay with a child.
Growing food in the desert comes with challenges The sun is intense. The air is dry. Native soil is compacted and low in nutrients. Yet a raised bed changes the equation. It gives children a manageable space filled with rich, living soil where they can dig, plant, and succeed
For homeschool families especially, a raised bed becomes a crosscurricular classroom. Science unfolds in real time. Math appears in plant spacing and irrigation timing. Nutrition becomes personal. Environmental awareness becomes practical It all happens outside, hands in the soil
Desert gardening also teaches timing. Our growing seasons flip the calendar most children learn in school Fall and early spring are prime vegetable seasons Lettuce thrives in October Tomatoes flourish in March Cilantro bolts as temperatures rise Children quickly learn that gardening success is not luck it is understanding when to plant, the importance of good soil and regular watering
Ownership transforms everything Give a child their own 4-by-8 raised bed and watch the shift. They check on it before school. They notice when something looks off. They celebrate the first radish sprout Caring for something alive builds meaningful responsibility
It also changes the dinner table. Kale harvested an hour before dinner tastes completely different. Snap peas eaten straight off the vine need no encouragement Children who grow food are far more willing to try it because they feel proud of it
"My mom had me digging in the garden since I was little," says Mia B. "Now I help grow our favorite tomatoes and fresh herbs."
That steady ritual planting seeds, watering them, watching a tomato slowly blush is grounding. Warm soil. The scent of basil in the afternoon heat. Something living that depends on you and gives back with yummy snacks and confidence in learning a practical skill!
Sage K checks her garden before and after school each day She loves to paint rocks with the plant names and places them throughout the bed. "My favorite thing is to grow chocolate mint because we make homemade ice cream with it!" she says When families garden together, they cultivate more than vegetables they grow skills and fond memories that last a lifetime
SPRINGWINNERS
EASY PLANTS FOR DESERT KIDS
Spring is prime growing season in the desert. Plant early, water consistently, and growth takes off fast These crops deliver quick wins and big excitement
Cherry Tomatoes
Sweet, snackable, and endlessly exciting. Small varieties ripen faster and give kids daily harvest moments
Bush Beans
Big seeds for small hands They sprout quickly and start producing within weeks
Cucumbers
Fast climbers with visible progress. Kids love spotting tiny cucumbers forming behind bright yellow flowers
Radishes
Will start shooting up sprouts within days! Try different varieties and have a taste test!
Basil
Fragrant and resilient in warming weather. Easy to harvest and use in simple meals
Sunflowers
Tall, bold, and colorful! Watching them stretch toward the sky is unforgettable
How to Set Kids Up for Success
Plant in late February through March before extreme heat arrives. Plant what your family loves to eat!
Refresh beds with compost before planting
Water deeply and consistently as winds increase. Encourage daily "garden check-ins." Spring growth is fast and rewarding
Once a child sees something grow because of their care, the garden becomes more than a project. It becomes part of who they are.
About the Author
JoJami Tyler is a Las Vegas–based kitchen garden coach and founder of Fancy Pants Gardens She designs and installs raised bed vegetable gardens tailored to the desert climate and teaches families how to grow fresh, organic food with confidence.
Sage. K checks her garden daily with guidance from Fancy Pants Gardens Below, Leona Burke has learned to prune plum trees
VKZ Free For Readers
Calling all Lacrosse Fans!
Are you ready to show your support for our local lacrosse team in a fun and engaging way? Introducing the VKZ Lacrosse Activity Kit!
Perfect for players, fans, and families, this book is a great way to celebrate our team and learn more about the sport we love.
Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to support our team and enjoy hours of fun Get your Lacrosse Coloring and Trivia Book today!
Let's show Desert Dogs some love and have a blast while doing it! Go Team!
VKZ Education Packets are designed to provide an interactive, hands-on learning experiences. Tailored for different age groups, these packets include lesson plans, activity sheets and field trip guides.
DOYOU HAVEYOUR
POGOPass?
The POGO Pass is one of the best deals in town to get into a host of places (that don’t usually offer discounts for a steal! Use discount code VKZ to get 50% off!
Grab a few to give as gifts! Once activated the passes can be used for a whole year! Click Here
food
VegasBites VegasBites
ByKingstynMajors
When sitting down with Chef Ellie Parker, I was struck not only by her ethics, ambition and style, but her desire to turn around and help the next generation of talent
Her leadership style is balanced Sh leads by example If the kitchen get intense, her white coat gets dirty, to More than half of the staff she has hired are working in their first professional kitchen Instead of shutting doors the way some chefs did to her early in her career, she opens them She shares knowledge She adapts her coaching style depending on the person She give people real opportunities.
And that matters more than people realize.
While Chef Ellie creates opportunit she does not lower expectations.
RisingTalent
As a young journalist, that mindset is exactly what has opened doors for me this past year. Experienced professionals did not have to take time to mentor me, but they did Shoutout to Bryan Salmond on Channel 3 for being one of those people who has poured knowledge into me and shown me what this industry really looks like Local sports teams have invited me in to interview their players and staff. Coaches and athletes have trusted me with their stories
None of that happens if people decide to gatekeep. It happens because someone believes in giving the next person a shot
Seeing Chef Ellie lead that way, creating opportunities instead of closing them, was encouraging. It is proof that strong leadership is not about ego It is about building something bigger than yourself and bringing other people up with you.
As someone who is still building my own path, that example means a lot.
AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT
Kingstyn Majors is an 11year-old food critic, sports fan and young entrepreneur
SNACK BARS
When I was pregnant with my youngest, we had the unforgettable opportunity to host an exchange student from Germany.
Partway through the school year, she joined the swim team and her coach gave parents a friendly warning: prepare yourselves These athletes were about to go from hungry to HUNGRY
Determined to help her keep up with the workouts and races, I started making snacks for her to grab on her way out the door, her favorite being homemade granola barshearty, wholesome, and perfect for busy practice days These bars were more than just a snack; they became legendary in our house.
I have to squirrel them away in the depths of the freezer if I want any hope of them lasting. When our German daughter came back to visit 8 years later, these bars topped her must-make list! Now you can fuel your family’s busy days with these deliciously allergy-friendly snack bars- perfect for practice, school days, and every hungry moment in between
Ingredients
¾cupnutorseedbutter
½cupbrownsugar
1½cupsmashedbanana
1tbspvanillaextract
½tspsalt
2½cupsoats(gluten-freeoatsifneeded)
½cupseedsornuts
1cupdriedfruitofyourchoice
½cupchocolatechips(optional)
Directions
1 Preheat your oven to 350*F (175*C).
2 Line an 8x8 inch (20x20 cm) pan with foil and lightly grease.
3. Whisk the first 5 ingredients together in a large bowl Stir in the remaining ingredients until well combined
4. Put the mixture into your prepared pan and press down firmly to pack it in.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes (until golden brown) Move the pan to a wire rack and allow the bars to cool completely before removing and cutting
6 Cut into 6-9 pieces, depending on how big you want them.
Chef note: Wrap in plastic wrap or freezer paper and store in the fridge for a few days or in the freezer for 2-3 months.
Heather is a wife and mom to 5 beautiful children. For more recipes, head to fearlessfaithfulmom com
excursions
TurnitUp
ByLewisLayton
I’m blasted with a wall of NOFX merchandise as I enter the Las Vegas Punk Rock Museum, located just off Western Avenue. To my left are the exhibits. To my right? Even more merch, plus the 21+ Three Star Punk Bar and a staircase leading up to the tattoo parlor no tattoos for this guy, though!
Restricted areas aside, there’s still plenty for kids to explore, including the record store, where you can find just about any album from your (or your parents’) favorite punk band
Walking through hallways packed with punk rock history, I stopped at the original garage setup where the band Pennywise once practiced posters, instruments, carpet and all
Another standout spot is the jam room, where guests can play guitars and basses once used by some of punk’s most notable artists
I got to play on Social Distortion's acoustic guitar and my mom got to play on Joan Jett's electric guitar
There's also different exhibits for different bands, including a bagpipe used by Joshua L. "Scruffy" Wallace, the bagpipe player of the Dropkick Murphys
Each month, the museum features a new lineup of punk rock stars. On April 4, the museum will celebrate its three-year anniversary with a show headlined by Spike and the Gimme Gimmes, featuring C.J. Ramone on bass, John Reis and Jake Kiley on guitar, and Andrew “Pinchy” Pinching on drums.
Beyond the loud and proud live shows, Erik “Smelly” Sandin leads guided tours on weekends, including special tours with Michael John Burkett better known as “Fat Mike” lead vocalist and bassist of NOFX, as well as the museum’s founder.
“Punk rock has always been about more than just music; it’s about a multifaceted lifestyle involving art, fashion, and a defiant sense of community. The Punk Rock Museum captures this spirit by offering a space where you can learn, create, and celebrate all in one rebellious afternoon,” says the museum’s official website.
Oi!
NATURE’S COMEBACK SHOW
Wheretofindthesuperbloomthisyear
For a few short weeks each spring, the desert reminds everyone that it is full of surprises. With the rain that fell this past year, this could be one of those seasons people talk about for years
Across Southern Nevada and the Mojave, conditions are lining up for a burst of wildflowers that could draw thousandsofvisitorsfromaroundthe world hoping to witness a superbloom Ithasbeenmorethana decadesincetheregionexperienced a bloom of this scale If the timing continues to cooperate, the desert couldsoonbecoveredincolor
Forlocals,thisisthekindofmoment that makes you stop the car on a desert highway or take the long way homejusttoseewhatispoppingup alongthetrails. Wehavealistofthe bestplacestopulloverandwander through the wildflowers in Death Valleyhere.
Normallyquiethillsidesbegintoglow withyellow,purple,orange,andwhite as dormant seeds finally wake up afteryearsbeneaththesand
Adesertsuperbloomhappenswhenseveralfactorscometogetheratonce.Higherthan normal rainfall, mild winter temperatures, and the right soil conditions create an environmentwherethousandsofwildflowerseedscansuddenlygerminate
One of the closest places for Las Vegas families to see wildflowers is Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, especially around Calico Basin and lower elevation trails Early morning visits tend to offer the best lighting and fewer crowds.
Ifyoufindyourselfwonderingwhatfloweryouarelookingat,theSouthernNevadaWater Authority offers an online plant finder that helps identify desert plants based on characteristics like color, size, and leaf shape It is a fun tool to use before or after a hike, especiallyforcuriouskidswhowanttolearnmoreaboutwhattheydiscovered.
Fourth graders can earn a free pass to federal recreation areas through the Every Kid Outdoors program. Students complete a quick activity online, print their voucher, and redeemitwhenvisitingparticipatingparks
Read more about where to see the wildflower superbloom in Las Vegas and surroundareashere.
VKZ DIRECTORY
The Vegas Kids Zone Directory is your shortcut to local programs, kid-friendly businesses, and resources that support families yearround on and off the pages of this magazine
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UNR EXTENSION
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SCHOLARSHIP SOLUTIONS
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