SPRI NG SUMMER 2 018 stlmag.com vol.7 no.1
YOUR SUMMER FUN GUIDE WHERE TO GO, WHAT TO READ & HOW TO STAY COOL 5 SPLASHWORTHY SPOTS INCLUDING SIX FLAGS’ NEW TYPHOON TWISTER
FAMILY FINANCE 101 FROM PIGGY BANKS TO 529s
DOES YOUR CHILD NEED
SPEECH THERAPY? BRIGHT FASHION IDEAS
BRANSON AT NIGHT HOW TO ACE SUMMER READING
+ HOT SPOTS FOR TOTS: NEW CAFÉS, YOGA STUDIOS & HAIR SALONS
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
PLAY 9 CAFFEINATE, RELAX, REPEAT
A family-friendly café offers a respite for parents and kids.
10 RAISING ROBERTS
A St. Louis dad gives new meaning to the phrase “have your hands full.”
12 BEST HAIR SALONS FOR KIDS
These spots treat kids with extra TLC.
SPRING/SUMMER 2018
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14 BRANSON AFTER DARK
Sunset doesn’t have to mean “day’s over” at these five rockin’ spots.
SHOP 17 MODERN RAGS
April Riley Tate designs and sews toys in her South City home.
18 FLIGHTS OF FANTASY
Main Street Books’ co-owner on three fantasy fiction novels for teens
20 SPRING COLORS
Bright hues and pretty patterns
LIVE 53 MIND OVER MATTER
Elephant Power yoga gets kids moving.
54 SPEAKING THEIR LANGUAGE How to identify and address childhood speech disorders
56 IT’S 6 O’CLOCK SOMEWHERE
An entrepreneurial couple’s meal plan
PLAN 60 TOP 10 EVENTS
Must-hit spring and summer activities
62 RESTAURANTS
Family-friendly eateries L AST L AUGH 64 WE CONCEDE!
FEATURES 31
PIGGY BANKS & PARENTING A financial primer
23
100 DAYS OF FUN Way-cool events, camps, and activities for all types
Parents share their pre-kid naiveté.
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BROUGHT TO YOU BY
SPRING/SUMMER 2018
EDITORIAL EDITOR Sarah Newell
A St. Louis Magazine publication
EXECUTIVE EDITOR Jarrett Medlin
VOLUME 7, ISSUE 1
CONTRIBUTING EDITORS
WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST SUMMER JOB?
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
I answered phones at a law office—not as glamorous as I thought it’d be! Sarah Kloepple
Jenny Agnew, Anna Beck, Denise Bertacchi, Heidi Dean, Amanda E. Doyle, Emily Lombardo, CJ Lotz, Melissa Meinzer, Pam Wilson EDITORIAL INTERN
Skyler Milton
ART & PRODUCTION DESIGN DIRECTOR Tom White
Working construction— as a receptionist! Jeannette Cooperman
1600 S. Brentwood, Ste. 550 St. Louis, MO 63144 Phone 314-918-3000 Fax 314-918-3099 stlmag.com
George Mahe, Stefene Russell STAFF WRITER Jeannette Cooperman DIGITAL MEDIA MANAGER Steph Zimmerman ASSOCIATE EDITOR Sarah Kloepple COPY EDITOR Bonnie Spinola
ART DIRECTOR Emily Cramsey
A “merch girl” at my dad’s concerts—he’s a professional trumpet player. Steph Zimmerman
Lifeguard at a community pool. Tom White
DESIGNER Elizabeth Sawey SALES & MARKETING DESIGNER Monica Lazalier PRODUCTION MANAGER Dave Brickey STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Kevin A. Roberts CONTRIBUTING STYLIST Psyche Southwell
ADVERTISING
A swimming pool filter repairman. George Mahe
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES
Chad Beck, Jill Gubin, Brian Haupt, Carrie Mayer, Kim Moore, Liz Schaefer, Dani Toney SALES & MARKETING COORDINATOR Elaine Hoffmann MARKETING COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER Todd Schuessler DIGITAL ADVERTISING COORDINATOR Blake Hunt
EVENTS DIRECTOR OF SPECIAL EVENTS Jawana Reid
CIRCULATION CIRCULATION MANAGER Dede Dierkes CIRCULATION COORDINATOR Teresa Foss
BUSINESS PUBLISHER Ray Hartmann BUSINESS MANAGER Carol Struebig
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SUBSCRIPTIONS
Call 314-918-3000 to place an order or to inform us of a change of address, or visit stlmag.com/ subscribe. For corporate and group subscription rates, contact Teresa Foss at 314-918-3030. LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Send letters to the address above, or email feedback@stlmag.com. SPECIAL EVENTS
I worked at Old Navy and usually spent my whole paycheck on clothes. Emily Cramsey
For information about special events, call Jawana Reid at 314-918-3026. ADVERTISING
To place an ad, call 314-918-3000. DISTRIBUTION
Call Dede Dierkes at 314-918-3006. Unsolicited manuscripts may be submitted but must be accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped envelope. Reproduction in part or whole is strictly prohibited without the express written permission of the publisher. Copyright 2018 by St. Louis Magazine, LLC. All rights are reserved. © St. Louis Magazine, LLC
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Summer Wolf Camp at the Endangered Wolf Center
Spend summer at the Endangered Wolf Center, visiting the wolves, hiking, spelunking, taking nature walks and more! www.endangeredwolfcenter.org
636-938-5900
ST. LOUIS
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EDITOR’S REFLECTIONS
SPRING/SUMMER 2018
I think I’m probably a natural-born spender
who had to learn to save money. It’s not something I naturally excel at. For me, the business of saving—from squirreling away extra money to refraining from making an impulse purchase— was a learned behavior modeled by my parents. When I was about 10 years old, my parents gave me and my siblings $20 each to spend at Union Station. This was back when Union Station was a bustling shopping and dining destination with attractions like singing fudge makers, a rugged Jeep perched on boulders in the Banana Republic, and a hands-on science store. Basically, heaven for a 10-year-old with money to burn. I barely made it through the doors before setting my eyes on a wide-brimmed hat at the first kiosk we passed. My parents suggested delaying my purchase in case I saw something else I wanted more, so we left and walked into another store. But I had made up my mind. That hat was $20, and it was going to be mine. I bought it, wore it all day, and beamed with pride. My brother, John, ate his $20. He chose his pleasure in fudge and popcorn and soda. My older sister, however, couldn’t quite decide what she wanted. I had several ideas for her and even offered to spend it on myself. She ended up crying as we left at the end of the day.
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And you know what? We’d probably all do the exact same thing today if given the chance! Needless to say, there really is no one-size-fitsall financial plan or right way to spend or save. Writer Emily Lombardo, who penned our family finance feature (pg. 31), remembers her family using the envelope system. “Each month we’d divide our money up into envelopes (gas, groceries, etc.), and the leftover was ‘fun’ money or money to save. The habit stuck with me.” Our summer events guide (pg. 23) is chockfull of ways to have fun without spending a lot of money. We’ve rounded up the best happenings around town, from alfresco movies and family-friendly festivals to an exciting new water park attraction and community aquatic centers. Don’t miss the new Egyptian exhibit at SLAM (pg. 59) for an educational outing. With all the money you’ll be saving, we also have some ideas on how to spend it: cute clothes (pg. 20) and the most charming handmade dolls (pg. 17). Oh, and hey, sis: Can I borrow that $20 yet?
S
As
ou
of
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Sarah Newell
Photography by Lara Robby
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Stay with us and enjoy our friendly neighbors! As an official hotel of the Saint Louis Zoo, and located right across from the great Forest Park, our wild neighbors are only a quick jaunt or complimentary bike ride away, along with all kinds of summer fun for the whole family. Enjoy our outdoor pool, three on-site dining spots, family suite packages and our exclusive Royal Kids Program, fit for little kings and queens. 6300 Clayton Road • St Louis, Missouri • 314.647.7300 • CheshireSTL.com
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STLFamily_StCharles_Spring_Summer_18.pdf
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APRIL-SEPTEMBER 2018 CALENDAR APRIL 8
17
Spring Chicken Bike Ride
Streets of St. Charles
Food Trucks
St. Charles Soccer Complex
18-29 Augusta Plein Air Festival Locations around Augusta
MAY
C
M
StreetsFest Concert on Beale Street
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Music on Main – Soul Cracker
MY
CY
CMY
100-200 blks of North Main First Missouri State Capitol
Cobblestone Nationals Car Show
15
Music on Main – PepperLand
Frontier Park
100-200 blks of North Main Main Street & Frontier Park
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Food Trucks in Frontier Park
30
St. Charles Municipal Big Band
St. Charles Municipal Big Band
10
St. Charles Community Big (Jazz) Band Concert
Frontier Park
Frontier Park
StreetsFest Concert on Beale Street
Streets of St. Charles
16
PRIDE St. Charles
19
Food Trucks in Frontier Park
2
20
Music on Main – Vynal Tap
27
St. Charles County Symphony Concert
100-200 blks of North Main OPO, 119 South Main
JULY
3-4 Riverfest 2018
Frontier Park
St. Charles Community Big (Jazz) Band Concert Frontier Park
Celebration and Reenactment of St. Rose Philippine Duchesne’s Arrival on the St. Charles Riverfront Frontier Park
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StreetsFest Concert on Beale Street Streets of St. Charles
14-16 Mosaics Fine Art Festival North Main Street
19
Frontier Park Frontier Park
Frontier Park
SEPTEMBER 7
7
13
St. Charles Community Big (Jazz) Band Concert
Fast Lane Classic Cars
JUNE
K
StreetsFest Concert on Beale Street
Streets of St. Charles
12
Historical Children’s Festival
Frontier Park
Y
CM
Streets of St. Charles
25-27 Missouri River Irish Fest 28
8
17-19 Festival of the Little Hills
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19
AUGUST
Music on Main – Butch Wax & the Hollywood’s 100-200 blks of North Main
22
Ride the Rivers
Streets of St. Charles
28-30 Octoberfest Frontier Park
For all events and details, visit DiscoverStCharles.com
Frontier Park
8
St. Charles Community Big (Jazz) Band Concert Frontier Park
11 18
StreetsFest Concert on Beale Street
Streets of St. Charles
Music on Main – Serapis
100-200 blks of North Main
24-28 St. Charles County Fair Rotary Park – Wentzville
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SPRING/SUMMER 2018
ONE (SUPER) BUSY ST. LOUIS DAD
P. 10
THE BEST HAIR SALONS FOR KIDS
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BRANSON AFTER DARK
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CAFFEINATE, RELAX, REPEAT A new family-friendly café promises a respite for parents and plenty of activity for kids.
DIY FOR HIRECAFÉ URBAN FORT
IS have LOCATED ATmake 1854 Don’t the time to everyRUSSELL. cute idea onVISIT Pinterest? Thanks URBAN to local mom and crafter Megan FORTCAFE.COM FOR Swiney, commissioning a project is as easy DETAILS. as posting a photo on Facebook. Crafted in St. Louis, a Facebook group with
Want to make Megan King-Popp smile? Run to the white clapboard Ice Cream Shoppe at Urban Fort Play Café and holler,
“Who wants ice cream?” Serving pretend ice cream is her son Gideon’s favorite pastime, so naturally, it makes her happy—but it’s also a sure sign that this former teacher has found her niche. After a successful Indiegogo campaign, Urban Fort opened late last year in McKinley Heights. Patrons come from all over to relax, enjoy a cup of coffee (from Blueprint Coffee) and bite to eat (Whisk pastries and light café fare), and watch their little ones play. “One family traveled over an hour to visit,” says King-Popp, who's worn many hats over the past 20 years: nanny, preschool teacher, daycare owner, mother. “With so many amazing children’s museums and centers in St. Louis, we know there is no shortage of spaces for kids,” she says. “However, for parents, these sprawling locations can be exhausting.” Urban Fort provides a small-scale alternative. —SARAH NEWELL Photography by Kevin A. Roberts
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VARIET Y
SPRING/SUMMER 2018
DON ROBERTS This dad gives new meaning to the phrase “have your hands full,” with seven kiddos under age 9. Don Roberts is rarely seen on Raising Roberts (raisingroberts.com)—the popular blog where his wife, Jessica, writes about real life with so many youngsters—but he's a dedicated and patient dad. —PAM WILSON
BASIC STATS AGE: 32 FAMILY: Wife Jessica, 30, and
kids Liam, 9; Kai, 8; Kingston, 6; Evangeline, 4; Desmond, 2; Clementine, 1; and Primrose, 1 month. JOB: Convenience store manager BEST FEATURE: “A lot of people tell me I’m extremely patient.” NOISE LEVEL
“Having a large family is an interesting dynamic. It can be quiet one minute and loud the next. If anyone is gone and it’s quiet, it just doesn’t feel right.” ONLY CHILD
“When I was growing up, I never would have imagined this life! I am an only child, and I love having a large family.” ONE-ON-ONE TIME
“It's definitely not an everyday or even a weekly thing, but Jessica and I like to let one of the four oldest kids stay up late with us. They rotate, so they each get a turn. Or, if one of us needs to run an errand, we’ll let just one or two come with us sometimes.” BAL ANCING ACT
“I worked nights for six and a half years, but now I’m on the day/evening shift. It’s allowed me to be with my family more instead of sleeping while everyone is up. I miss out on dinner at home three nights a week now, which is a bummer, but other areas—like breakfast with everyone—have made up for it.”
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“If it's quiet, it just doesn't feel right.”
DIGITAL DIARY
“I recently started Family Fun Cast (familyfuncast.com), a YouTube vlog about our family, because it seemed like a great way to save home movies of the kids. And we really enjoy watching online how other people’s families grow, so it seemed like maybe other people would like the same from us.” FAMILY VALUES
“I want my kids to say, ‘He was always there for us. We could always count on Dad.’” AN EX TRA HAND
“When we need help during major events like the birth of a child, we can definitely count on our family, church family, and friends to help us with the kids. Jessica’s dad and stepmom help out when we need them, but we very rarely rely on the help of others to watch our kids, except for emergency situations.” IN HIS WIFE’S WORDS
“I love watching him be so involved with the kids and making them laugh. Our baby was sick, so Don took the other kids outside, and while they were filling the pool, a huge water fight ensued, with Don getting soaked. It’s fun to hear all the laughter. You can tell they all feel loved.” Photography by Kevin A. Roberts
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VARIET Y
SPRING/SUMMER 2018
EARNA-BIKE FOR FREE
AMBER SKY 3100 Sutton, Maplewood, amber-sky.net
This full-service salon for both parents and tots offers stress-free cuts from understanding stylists who are all moms. It offers a play area and family photography studio, too.
BEST HAIR SALONS FOR KIDS From baby’s first trim to your tween’s ballet bun, these salons treat kids with extra TLC.
SWEET AND SASSY 17 West County Center, sweetandsassy.com
Make an appointment at this kidcentric spa, specializing in the latest hairstyles and braids with plenty of glitter. It provides girly makeovers plus clipper trims for little brothers.
—DENISE BERTACCHI
KIDDO’S CLOSET AND CLIPS
LICE BUSTERS ST. LOUIS
5621 Old Collinsville, Fairview Heights, kiddosclosetandclips.com
7923 Big Bend, Webster Groves, licebusters-stl.com
This children’s salon is also a boutique and tumbling gym. During cuts, kids can ride in car-shaped chairs while playing video games. It also offers a “My First Haircut” photo with a lock of hair.
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Don’t scratch! This lice treatment center offers screenings, DIY kits, comb-outs, and a heated air treatment that promises to kill 99 percent of nits the first time.
THE HAIRY ELEPHANT 106 A Holloway, Ballwin; 2546 Highway K, O’Fallon, thehairyelephant.com
Calm your kids with car-shaped chairs, TVs, and a station with an assortment of scented shampoos. The full-service salon offers everything from trims to braids, as well as first haircuts with keepsake photos.
During a session of the St. Louis Bicycle Works' Earn-A-Bike program, trained volunteers teach bike safety and maintenance while sneaking in a dose of problem-solving and teamwork. Kids ages 8 to 17 can sign up online for a free six-week session. Upon graduation, tykes ride away with a free bike, helmet, lock, and light—a tangible reward for fulfilling the program’s requirements. St. Louis Bicycle Works accepts donations of used bikes in any condition and supports its programs through the sale of refurbished bikes at its shop. 2414 Menard, bworks.org
KIDS CAN EARN A FREE BIKE, HELMET, LOCK, AND LIGHT.
Photography by Kevin A. Roberts
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THE SCOOP
EVENTS
Tickets ON SALE NOW! metrotix.com •314.534.1111 WANT TO BE THE FIRST TO KNOW? Receive updates from our partners in your inbox every week
CONTESTS
PEANUT FREE PREVIEW APRIL 19th
SENSORY FRIENDLY SHOW MAY 2nd
Ackermann’s
SUMMER
Swim Program Teaching 4-11 year old children to swim in Kirkwood since 1949
For Grades 2-8
See website for dates and application
ASPKirkwood.com
DEALS
e-mail: aspkirkwood@icloud.com Like us on
SUMMER CAMPS GRADES 2-8
Sharpen your skills in the classroom and on the field. 1044 Curran Ave. Kirkwood, MO 63122 314-821-1070
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SLUH.ORG/SUMMER-PROGRAMS 314.531.0330
ST. LOUIS
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@SLUHsummer
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TRAVEL
SPRING/SUMMER 2018
BRANSON AFTER DARK Sunset doesn’t have to mean “day’s over” at these five rockin’ spots. —AMANDA E. DOYLE
When you're traveling with the whole family, “after dark” may not have the same grown-up cachet it once did. But there’s still plenty of play to be had when evening hits Branson. Let the smaller kids get their hotel nap in, and prepare for round two! FUN MOUNTAIN
Big Cedar Lodge
BRANSON L ANDING FOUNTAINS
Taneycomo Lakefront Inside Big Cedar Lodge (bigcedar.com), Fun Mountain offers laser tag, two kinds of bumper cars (including one with a gyroscopic, spinning seat), nature discovery center, pirate-themed climber with slide, an interactive rock-climbing wall, and more within its 50,000-square-feet space. Underwater seascape bowling alley? Sure, that too. Also open to non-hotel guests (minimum $10 game-card purchase after 5 p.m.).
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SHEPHERD OF THE HILLS OUTDOOR DRAMA
SHOWBOAT BRANSON BELLE
BRANSON FERRIS WHEEL
Table Rock Lake
The Track Family Fun Parks
Shepherd of the Hills The Branson Landing fountains (branson landing.com) will tide you over till your next trip to Vegas: the fireand-ice spectacular here is from the same folks behind jawdropping shows at the Bellagio. On the hour from noon until 10 p.m. (9 p.m. on Sundays), catch the music and water synchronicity from the boardwalk or nearby restaurants.
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Shepherd of the Hills Outdoor Drama (shep herdofthehills.com) brings to life the lore of Ozarks history in a performance that includes horses, cars, a burning cabin, a square dance, and even a shot or two. The play is based on the popular 1907 book by Christian minister Harold Bell Wright and advised for those with longer attention spans (say, age 5 and older). It opens Memorial Day weekend with nightly shows at 8:30 p.m.
Showboat Branson Belle (silverdollarcity.com) cruises Table Rock Lake while guests enjoy a three-course meal and variety show. The 8 p.m. departure is the last of the night (Fridays/Saturdays and select other days). If your little ones can’t quite hang, a 4 p.m. launch will get you back in time for sunset. (July weekends bring a 9 a.m. Princess and Pirate-themed cruise, just in case nighttime ain’t the right time.)
The Branson Ferris Wheel (bransontracks. com) marks its second year on the skyline, having been imported from Chicago’s Navy Pier in 2016. At 150 feet high, it treats its 240 riders to expansive views of the entertainment district at any hour…but after dark, 144,000 LED lights transform the wheel into an electrifying show, with riders in the thick of it. Shows happen on the hour from 5–10 p.m., weather permitting. Photography courtesy of Big Cedar Lodge
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FORSYTH SUMMER DISCOVERY June 11-August 10, 2018
REGISTER: ForsythOnline.com
AT THE
DO TIME IN
JEFFERSON CITY
MISSOURI STATE PENITENTIARY History and Ghost Tours Available
www.MissouriPenTours.com 866-998-6998 /missouripentour
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FORSYTH. THERE’S NOTHING LIKE IT.
AGE 3 - GRADE 6
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1/24/18
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ST. LOUIS
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IT’S NOT A SUBSCRIPTION. IT’S SOMETHING BIGGER. INTRODUCING OUR FIRST-EVER MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM
PRINT AND DIGITAL EDITIONS
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ADVANCE NOTICE OF AND DISCOUNTS ON SLM EVENTS
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EXCLUSIVE SHOPPING AND DINING DEALS
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A SPECIAL BIRTHDAY GIFT
as our way of saying thank you
FOR JUST $10 MORE THAN A REGULAR SUBSCRIPTION, YOU’LL GET ACCESS TO VIP BENEFITS AND SAVINGS WORTH HUNDREDS FAM_SHOP_0418.indd 16
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SPRING/SUMMER 2018
FLIGHTS OF FANTASY THE MO YOU KNOW SPRING COLORS
MODERN RAGS April Riley Tate designs and sews each toy in her South City home. BY ANNA BECK
Photography by Kevin A. Roberts
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P. 20
While shopping for her toddler years ago, April Riley Tate couldn’t find a toy that was just
right. Inspired by her own childhood rag dolls, she began sewing stuffed toys. Riley Construction Toys (etsy.com/shop/rileyconstruction)—Tate’s line of handmade rag dolls, quirky embroidery, and plush toys—was born. Today, the dining room in her South City home serves as her studio, where she starts with a sketch that eventually becomes a pattern. The resulting cotton and wool felt toys provide a tactile experience for children. “They’re huggable,” says Tate, whose dolls often remind other adults of their youth. “They step out of reality and into fantasy toyland.” This spring, she’s introducing playmates in beach and camping themes, along with new mermaids. Look for Tate’s collection at Union Studio, at area art fairs, and on Etsy. ST. LOUIS
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BOOKSHELF
SPRING/SUMMER 2018
FLIGHTS OF FANTASY Main Street Books’ co-owner on three fantasy fiction novels for teens BY MELISSA MEINZER
Seven years ago, Emily Hall, a freshly minted English major from
Truman State University, wasn’t sure what was next. She spent some time at the World Bird Sanctuary, working with birds of prey. She worked in the insurance industry for a while. Everything was fine, but nothing was great. Shortly after Christmas in 2013, Hall’s mother called her at work to mention that “the bookstore on Main Street is for sale. It’s going to close if they can’t find a buyer.” The then-24-year-old could hear the ellipses in her mother’s voice. A month later, Hall and her parents bought Main Street Books in St. Charles. “It just ended up being the best decision I ever made,” she says. “I absolutely love it.” That’s lucky for us. Hall is committed to keeping the shop a singular, local destination for readers who want thoughtful recommendations. She coordinates author events at the store and with the St. Charles CityCounty Library District. “Authors are the people who create the worlds we love,” Hall says. Here are a few new worlds worth a spot on any teen’s bookshelf.
THE MO YOU KNOW Learn (almost) everything there is to know about the Show-Me State in this fun volume. It’s a well-sourced and collaboratively researched dive into our state’s history, famous daughters and sons, and one-of-akind factoids from across Missouri.
BY DHONIELLE CLAYTON
BY TOMI ADEYEMI
BY JESSICA BRODY
2018, Disney Hyperion, 488 pages
2018, Henry Holt and Co., 544 pages
2017, Simon Pulse, 416 pages
Co-author (and SLM contributor) Amanda Doyle says her favorite research nugget was learning about Nancy Green, the formerly enslaved woman who was the living trademark for the St. Joseph– started Aunt Jemima pancake company. Green wound up a financial success, despite her tragic history.
“It is a sublimely written fantasy novel about a world where people are born gray, without any color or beauty,” says Hall. Some girls, the Belles, have and can bestow outward beauty. “One particular Belle, Camellia, gets to the capital and realizes not everything is as beautiful as it seems.”
“It’s just 600 pages of ‘shut up and take my money,’” gushes Hall. “There is not a spare second to breathe when you read this novel.” The conflict between magical and non-magical members of society makes for a high-stakes thrill ride and a compelling debut from Nigerian-American Adeyemi.
A girl stranded in an airport on New Year’s Eve, wanting only to get home and grieve her friend’s death—sounds like a laugh riot, no? It is, says Hall, and includes growth and redemption: “She comes into her own as a person who is able to deal with this loss and grief.”
Missouri Almanac 2018-2019 by Amanda Doyle, John Brown, Traci Angel, Carolyn Mueller, and Andrea Sumy; Reedy Press
THE BELLES
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CHILDREN OF BLOOD AND BONE
THE CHAOS OF STANDING STILL
Photography by Kevin A. Roberts
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ST. LOUIS MAGAZINE ’S 2018
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DRESS-UP
SPRING/SUMMER 2018
SPRING COLORS New trends in kids' clothing include bright hues, pretty patterns, and understated kicks. 1
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BY PSYCHE SOUTHWELL
High-spirited jackets
are the harbingers of warmer weather and playdates at the park. Choose one that can withstand lots of play while looking sharp on the way to school.
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COLOR BLOCK
Casual activewear in a solid, bright color is the perfect layer for everyday wear and shines with personality.
PL AYFUL PUNCH
Wearing all-over patterns might sound like a fashion risk, but if the base layer is black and white, a perky floral top is actually the perfect complement.
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5 BOY: 1. Kids’ Minecraft Creeper Mob baseball hat, $9.99. Target. 314-918-9500, target.com. 2. Adidas Originals adicolor Superstar track top, $50. Kids Foot Locker, Saint Louis Galleria. 314-862-9322, kidsfootlocker.com. 3. Cat & Jack T-shirt, $6. Target. 4. Tucker + Tate jeans, $30. Nordstrom, Saint Louis Galleria. 314-884-4900, shop.nord strom.com. 5. Adidas Original Superstar sneakers, $75. Kids Foot Locker. GIRL: 1. Girls' sunglasses, $7.99. H&M. 2. Print jersey-lined windbuster in Maui rose floral, $39.95. GapKids. gap.com. 3. Cat & Jack T-shirt, $12.99. Target. 4. Cat & Jack coin purse, $4.99. Target. 5. GB Girls stripe pants, $44. Dillard’s at Saint Louis Galleria. 314-725-8363, dillards.com. 6. Girls’ Stevies #KOOLKICKS quilted twin gore sneakers in blush, $17.99. Target.
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Photography by Kevin A. Roberts
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Underwater-Themed Bowling at Fun Mountain
Take a short drive to the Ozarks for a getaway your family will never forget. From an underwater-themed round of bowling at the 50,000 square foot adventure center to an electric cart tour of a spectacular cave and nature trail, Big Cedar has something for everyone. On your way home, don’t miss the new Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium. This world-class destination is the latest vision of Johnny Morris, founder of Bass Pro Shops and Big Cedar Lodge. With so much to do in the Ozarks, you’re sure to make lasting memories with your family.
877.224.7626 | BIGCEDAR.COM
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med at ain
100 DAYS OF FUN
Looking for easy ways to entertain your kids? These way-cool events, camps, and activities cater to kids of all types and budgets of all sizes. Here’s how to have the best summer ever.
BY JENNY AGNEW, DENISE BERTACCHI, SKYLER MILTON, MELISSA MEINZER, SARAH NEWELL, AND PAM WILSON
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ST. LOUIS ZOO Catch the Jungle Boogie performances at the Saint Louis Zoo every Friday evening. The zoo stays open late, with live music and special kid-friendly activities starting around 5 p.m. in Schnuck Family Plaza. May 25–August 31 (no concert June 15). Saint Louis Zoo, Forest Park, stlzoo.org.
BALLPARK VILLAGE Watch family-friendly films like Ferdinand, Cars, and Beauty and the Beast projected on a 24-foot outdoor screen in the Busch II Infield on select Mondays this summer. Bring a blanket and arrive early (6 p.m.) to participate in activities related to each film. Movies start at 7 p.m. May 14, June 4, July 16, August 4, and August 20. Ballpark Village, 601 Clark, stlballparkvillage.com.
LAUMEIER SCULPTURE PARK Get inspired by nature while bonding over art projects with your kids. Free Family Days are the perfect mix of art and nature for kids ages 4 and up. June 10 and August 12. Laumeier Sculpture Park, Kranzberg Education Lab, laumeier sculpturepark.org.
ART HILL Grab a blanket, pack cheesesticks and juice boxes, and head to Forest Park for an alfresco performance of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. The pre-show, dubbed the Green
FREE FESTIVALS Don’t let your wallet feel the heat this summer. Check out these free outdoor festivities at some of our favorite destinations.
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FOR BIG FIREWORKS...HEAD TO FAIR ST. LOUIS
Photography by Bethany Ottens/ Missouri Botanical Garden and courtesy of Festival of Nations, and St. Louis Zoo
S
Fourth of July
Where to celebrate America’s birthday with grand style—or hometown charm
Show, kicks off at 6:30 p.m. with period dancers, jugglers, and special activities for kids. Mainstage performance at 8 p.m. June 1–24, every night except Tuesday. Shakespeare Festival St. Louis. Forest Park, sfstl.com.
more than 20 vendors selling comics-themed merchandise. Step outside for a musical performance by The Shake Ups and to grab a bite at one of three food trucks. July 14, 10 a.m.–3 p.m., Central Library, 1301 Olive, slpl.org.
MISSOURI BOTANICAL GARDEN
TOWER GROVE PARK
As part of the Whitaker Music Festival, families can enjoy free admission to the garden and live musical performances every Wednesday from June through August. Bring a blanket and pack a picnic (no glass), or purchase food, sno-cones, and adult beverages on-site. The Children’s Garden stays open until 7 p.m., and the music starts around 7:30 p.m. Missouri Botanical Garden, missouribotanicalgarden.org.
CENTRAL LIBRARY Mark your calendar for the 4th annual Comics Central Convention. Kids can wear their favorite cosplay costumes, participate in games, make crafts in the Star Clipper Craft Corner, attend a comics workshop, or have their portfolio reviewed by local publisher Lion Forge. Don’t miss the virtual-reality demonstration, mobile gaming with STL Game Trailer, and
Learn about different cultures through an array of food, art,
music, and crafts at the annual Festival of Nations in Tower Grove Park. More than 75 cultures were represented last year, from Argentine to Zimbabwean. Families can learn a new dance, play international games, stroll through the world bazaar, try new fare, and make kid-friendly crafts. August 25–26, Tower Grove Park, festivalofnationsstl.org.
The granddaddy of Fourth of July fairs returns to the Arch grounds this summer. Fair St. Louis also marks the completion of the CityArchRiver project and the grand opening of the new Arch Experience. Expect fantastic music, food, fun, and fireworks under the Arch. July 4, 6, and 7. Gateway Arch. fairsaintlouis.com. FOR NOSTALGIA... HEAD TO WEBSTER GROVES COMMUNITY DAYS
Rather avoid the crowds at the Arch? Celebrate the Fourth of July in Webster Groves. See a parade, visit a carnival, and eat tons of BBQ while sporting red, white, and blue. (The fair is free, but carnival rides require a wristband.) Webster Groves, Memorial Park, Webster Groves. webster groves.org.
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ARTS & CRAFTS Let those creative juices flow indoors and out.
YUCANDU ART STUDIO Looking for a fun, vibrant space where families can go to get inspired and create? Look no further than Yucandu, an art studio that opened nearly 15 years ago in Webster Groves and caters to all skill levels for ages 5 and up. “You can actually see people’s eyes light up when they step into the studio,” says owner Kim Harris. “Families of all ages enjoy the creativity and togetherness.” Drop in for Open Studio, which includes use of tools, space, assistance/inspiration, and teaching, as well as clean-up for a $4 per hour or $12 per day fee. The costs of such materials as mixed media, painting, mosaic, wood-working, collage, and artsy additions are separate. Need something more structured? Workshops and classes are also available. On May 12, students in kindergarten
Coloring Craze
through fifth grade can make and wrap gifts during a Mother’s Day Gift Workshop ($45, 9:30 a.m.–noon). Yucandu also offers art-inspired summer camp options from May 29–August 2 for first through eighth graders (prices vary). Yucandu Art Studio, 20 Allen, 314-963-4400, yucandu.com.
ART UNLEASHED This nonprofit art studio offers camps, classes, and workshops for nearly all ages (pre-K through adult) and abilities. Sign up for classes in painting, drawing, pottery, wheel-throwing, or mosaics. New teen programming includes DIY decorating, chess, and cake decorating. Girl and Boy Scouts can earn an art badge or pin during special Scout workshops June 13–15. 13379 Olive, 636-627-7735, artunleashed.org.
Intricate and sophisticated coloring books are having a moment (and show no sign of abating) with adults and kids alike. St. Louis Splendor: An Adult Coloring Book by Jo Ann Kargus (Reedy Press) features some of our city’s top historical spots and hip hangouts. Make some room on the refrigerator.
Art & Nature
On May 20, during the Academy of Nature and Wildlife Arts’ annual fundraiser, Paint St. Louis Plein Air Event, families with children ages 3 and up are invited to explore various art forms in nature through plein air painting, dance, theater, music, voice, writing, and pottery/sculpture. Learn cellphone photography in nature with Missouri Master Naturalists, or try hand-thrown pottery with Krueger Pottery artists. Grab lunch or a snack at one of the food trucks onsite. $5, Noon–4 p.m. Queeny Park, academyofnature andwildlifearts.org.
Keep the conversation going by participating in the academy’s Hidden Gems, a free scavenger hunt of natural events happening in St. Louis County parks. The online calendar has weekly projects posted, such as “Yellow Lady Slippers Bloom” or “Lightning Bugs Appear,” meant to inspire artists of all ages. You can also follow the academy’s Facebook page for alerts. Then submit your creation (photo, sketch, etc.) for prizes and the chance to be featured in an October exhibition.
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Let this summer be synonymous with book clubs.
Diversity in Reading
After frequenting EyeSeeMe (eyeseeme.com), a bookstore in University City that serves as a resource for parents and educators about outstanding African-American children’s books, Sidney Keys III and his mom, Winnie Caldwell, founded Books n Bros, a monthly book club for African-American boys ages 8 to 12. Each month, members receive a membership box with a book and worksheet to be completed before each meeting. $25 per month, booksnbros.com.
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BOOKS
Take it from a pint-sized pro. Esther Appelstein—a local student, avid reader, and Scholastic Kids Press Corps reporter—highly recommends the St. Louis Public Library’s summer reading program. “During the summer, I like to read as much as I can,” Appelstein says. “Since I’m usually very busy during the school year, I don’t have as much time to read.” With SLPL’s summer reading program, kids and teens can sign up and track their reading for prizes. Older teens can also arrange their own discussions with Book Club in a Bag: Choose from more than 200 titles, and reserve your kit, which includes 15 copies of the book, insightful discussion questions, and information about the author. “I really enjoy participating,” says Appelstein, who’s been going to the library for years. “They have reading clubs with lots of great prizes and drawings.” (She won a Kindle Fire from a drawing.) “The Kirkwood [Public] Library summer reading club is another one of my favorites,” she adds. “It takes a few more hours to complete, but there are many more options for prize drawings.” In fact, most area libraries— including branches of the Muncipal Library Consortium (mlc-stl.org), the St. Louis County Library (slcl. org), and the St. Charles CityCounty Library (youranswerplace. org)—offer outstanding options for both beginning and avid readers. Too young to join a reading club? Head to the Daniel Boone Branch’s new Discovery Room. An entire floor is dedicated to children and includes a slide, an oversized light wall, large touch screens, a playhouse, reading nooks, and a separate quiet room.
Reading Camps at COCA
Many of COCA’s camp offerings are centered around books, including “Bedtime Stories” (July 9–13, ages 3–5), which interprets sleepy favorites through art and performance; “Give Me Goosebumps,” an immersive experience of R.L. Stine’s beloved and chilling tales (July 30–August 3, ages 6–7); and “Hogwarts Journey Continues” (July 16–20, ages 8–10), which lets fans of The Boy Who Lived develop a script and set for a fantastical play. COCA, 524 Trinity, cocastl.org.
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1. EMPOWER. “Making something with your hands creates a strong sense of empowerment. They can have these things forever.”
2. START SMALL. “One of our student’s first projects is to make a storage object shaped like an animal. Students design the object, make a model, and then enlarge their designs. Once they’ve learned how to use the hand and power tools through this project, they are encouraged to come up with their own ideas. Some examples include clocks, gumball machines, breadboards, and even a shield.”
3. SHOW UP. “We network within the public school system, where we have in-school classes. Our kids are primarily from low-income households, but anyone can attend one of our workshops.”
4. NEVER STOP LEARNING.
LEARN A SKILL Whether you try a new hobby, play a new instrument, or get your hands dirty with a new skill, summer is prime time to try it out.
“Communication, problem solving, critical thinking, collaboration, how to use tools… All of these are required in STEAM fields, but a child’s creativity is an important element, too. The projects that Building Futures [participants] work on are a fun application of what students also learn in school; for example, they have to use math as they design and build.” Nonprofit Building Futures (building-futures.org) hosts Design and Build Workshops that offer area youth free hands-on opportunities to learn applicable skills involving architecture, drawing, and building. Co-founder Frank Lorberbaum shares five important takeaways.
5. REMEMBER HOW FAR YOU’VE COME. “When I was a child, I attended summer camp through the Clayton School District. I swam, played sports, and worked with wood. One of my most memorable projects was a simple tomahawk with a wood blade.”
Find Scholarships, Jobs & More
Launched in 2015 by Build-A-Bear Workshop founder Maxine Clark, Blueprint4SummerSTL (blueprint 4summer.com) is more than just a place to find summer camps for kids. It has also helped students identify scholarship opportunities—last year, nearly 380 students were able to attend camp for free. The site now includes job opportunities for camp counselors, lifeguards, nurses, and bus drivers as well. And special-needs program listings have increased by 83 percent. What about older kids? Sister site Blueprint4Summer College Prep offers nationwide resources for college-bound high-school students looking to participate in summer programs.
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5 PLACES TO GET WET ’N’ WILD Cool off this summer at one of these splash-worthy spots.
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SIX FLAGS HURRICANE HARBOR A new high-thrills water attraction, Typhoon Twister, opens May 26 at Six Flags Hurricane Harbor. Ride a fourperson tube down a five-story enclosed drop followed by a 45-foot-high wave wall. (Minimum height restrictions apply.) Children will enjoy the tropical treehouse or pirate-themed water attractions, while the entire family can relax along 1,100-foot lazy river Gulley Washer Creek or in the wave pool with a giant volcano in Hurricane Bay. 4900 Six Flags, sixflags.com.
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RECREATION STATION AQUATIC CENTER
AQUAPORT
HEMAN PARK SWIMMING POOL
CHESTERFIELD FAMILY AQUATIC CENTER
Chill out at Heman Park swimming pool, an oasis in the heart of University City. One pool caters to all ages with a small water slide, giant inflatable play structures, diving boards, and a few lap lanes. A separate kiddie pool is devoted to toddlers. The pool opens at 9 a.m., so families can beat the heat. Admission starts at $3 for residents and $6 for non-residents. 7210 Olive, ucitymo.org.
Play in the Chesterfield Family Aquatic Center’s leisure pool, which features two large water slides and a 250-foot lazy river. Or watch the kids enjoy the AquaPlay, a splash playground with sprinklers and a mini slide, while you relax on the sunny deck. A party room is available to rent for summer birthday parties. The pool stays open late on July 4, so you can keep swimming right up until the fireworks start in the nearby Chesterfield Mall parking lot. Admission starts at $5 for residents and $8 for nonresidents. 16365 Lydia Hill, chesterfield.mo.us.
Kirkwood’s awardwinning aquatic center has a 10-lane lap pool, a zero-depth-entry leisure pool, a pair of three-story slides, and a cabin-themed aquatic playground. The season opens Memorial Day weekend, but sign up now for season passes, a swim team, or swim lessons. Daily admission starts at $4 for residents and $8 for non-residents. Children 3 and under swim for free. Half-price admission begins two hours before closing. 111 S. Geyer, kirkwoodmo.org.
Aquaport in Maryland Heights is all about the fun with five water slides, an 8,000- square-foot novelty-shaped family pool, and such play features as fountains, bubblers, and sprinklers. The water slides include an Extreme Bowl with an enclosed slide that goes into a funnel-shaped bowl, a Racer Slide for dueling friends or siblings, and a tube-and-flume slide. The Wacky Water Slide is the shortest ride, ideal for tots. Admission starts at $4 for residents and $10 for non-residents; free for children 3 and under. Get half off admission after 5 p.m. 2344 McKelvey, marylandheights.com.
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How to talk to your kids about money, saving, and everything in between
PIGGY BANKS & PARENTING Having clear rules and ways to monitor money is an easy way to get kids started with successful financial habits. Here are some helpful tips for parents, creative ways to teach kids about finance, and a few places where children can learn about money while still having fun. BY EMILY LOMBARDO
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LET’S TALK
MONEY EXPERTS AGREE: The sooner you start talking to your kids about finances, the better. “According to studies, children form financial habits as early as 7 years old,” says Mary Suiter, economic education officer at the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis. The easiest way to broach the topic is by starting with consistent communication. “The biggest mistake you can make as a parent is not talking about finances. You don’t have to be sophisticated or know market terms,” says Jordan Janes, partner at Moneta Group, an independent wealth management firm. “It’s never too soon to start talking about money.” Janes recommends giving kids a clear piggy bank beginning in kindergarten, so they can see their money grow. Being able to see the money tangibly accumulate shows that “the more they save, the more the money builds up,” says Janes. Games like Monopoly and Game of Life and apps such as Rich Dad’s CASHFLOW Classic are great ways to teach finance skills and build kids’ knowledge. As children get older, both Suiter and Janes recommend giving them a chance to manage money—for example, paying small amounts
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for chores and talking to them about birthday or gift money. “Having money to manage allows them to make choices and incur the actual cost of those choices,” says Suiter. “If they make a bad choice, then they bear the consequences.” While it can be hard for parents to let their kids feel the consequences of a bad money decision, Janes says that these mistakes are a great way for kids to learn about their spending choices and consequences. Reading books with your kids is a great way to start a conversation about making financial decisions. Try titles like Uncle Jed’s Barbershop by Margaree King Mitchell for elementaryage kids or Lawn Boy by Gary Paulsen, geared toward third to seventh graders. When should you go to the bank? As kids reach middle school and high school, Janes says it may be time to open a bank account. “Tell them about interest rates and how a bank account is a place where you save money,” says Janes. “Introduce familiar terms like markets, stocks, and interest, and talk to them about these topics at their level.” No matter what age level, kids are watching you and how you spend your money. Strive to be open and to set a great example.
How to Open a Bank Account Custodial or savings? It really depends on what works best for your family. While you and your child will have access to money in a savings account, any money put into a custodial account will be considered a gift and must be used for the benefit of the child. When making an appointment to open an account, talk about what options would be best for you and your children. If you’re opening an account for a minor, you will be opening a joint account in your name. Talk to your bank about what happens to the account after your child turns 18, such as changing fee waivers, so you’re prepared for the next steps. Before going to the bank, gather your social security numbers and birth certificates. Set up text and email alerts to monitor spending. Get your kid in the habit of checking their expenses every month, so they learn not to overdraft their account accidentally —and to check for account fraud. Research interest rates to see which savings account gives you the best bang for your buck.
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Put that money advice into practice at these institutions, where kids and their caregivers can explore and pretend in a no-risk, make-believe financial world.
LET'S GO
PLAY! THE MAGIC HOUSE CHILDREN’S VILLAGE The Children’s Village in The Magic House gives kids a chance to practice spending and managing money with a built-in bank and market for kids ages 5 through 11. $11. 516 S. Kirkwood, 314-822-8900, magichouse.org.
JUNIOR ACHIEVEMENT BIZTOWN & FINANCE PARK This program begins with 12 teacher-taught lessons on finance and concludes with a final trip to either BizTown or Finance Park, where kids can learn about everything from banks and loans to what it takes to run a business in a simulated environment. $15 per program. 17339 N. Outer 40, 636-728-0707, juniorachievement.org BONUS! JA Summer camp options include JA Biz Wizards Camp: June 11–15, ages 8–9 (must have completed second grade); JA BizTown Camp: June 18–22, ages 10–12 (must have completed fourth grade); and JA Young Entrepreneurs Camp: June 25–29; ages 11–13 (must have completed fifth grade). INSIDE THE ECONOMY MUSEUM With almost 100 exhibits of interactive games, videos, and sculptures, the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis attraction teaches kids about the economy, markets, and how to make good financial decisions in this hands-on museum. Free. 1 Federal Reserve Bank Plaza, 314-444-7309, stlouisfed.org.
Photography by Kevin A. Roberts, courtesy of The Magic House
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Will a 529 Plan Work for You?
MONEY TIPS FOR PARENTS Elizabeth Willard Thames, finance blogger and author of the recently published book Meet the Frugalwoods, shares five pointers for parents. 1) IDENTIFY YOUR LONG-TERM GOALS. Think about what’s most important to your family. Is it annual vacations? Getting out of debt? Paying for college? Are these goals for the next five years? The next 10 years? Thames recommends writing down your future finance aspirations to help curb any temptations to splurge on unnecessary items and to keep a steady reminder of your goals. 2) TRACK YOUR SPENDING. “Use an app, a software program, a spreadsheet, or a piece of paper to keep precise track of every dollar you spend every month,” says Thames. “Knowing where your money goes is the first step to creating a long-term financial plan and is a prerequisite to just about every other financial exercise.” 3) KNOW YOUR DEBTS AND INTEREST RATES. You already know that accumulating debt isn’t doing you any favors, but Thames says to make sure you’re tackling it in a proactive, mathematically sound way. “Interest is what makes debt so terrible,” says Thames. “By identifying which of your debts have the highest interest rates, you can create a plan for paying down each debt.” 4) SAVE FOR A RAINY DAY. It’s imperative that you have an emergency fund to create a buffer between your family and potential financial catastrophe. Your emergency fund should be three to six months of living expenses (calculated from Step No. 2) in an easily accessible checking or savings account. However, Thames warns, “none of these things are an emergency fund: a paid-off house, a paid-off car, your grandmother’s china, your 401(k). If you were to lose your job, have your car die, become ill, or experience any other unforeseen challenge in life, your emergency fund is what would allow you to still pay your rent/mortgage, feed your family, and pay your bills while getting yourself back on track.” 5) IT’S NEVER TOO EARLY TO SAVE FOR RETIREMENT. Start contributing today! Thames recommends finding out if your employer offers a matching 401(k) or 403(b) program; an employer match is free money and one of the best ways to build your nest egg.
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It might be worth considering a 529 savings account. “A 529 plan is a tax-advantaged savings plan designed to encourage saving for future college costs,” says Janes. “Anybody can open an account for a beneficiary—generally a parent for their child. As an account owner, you’ll pick investments, assign a beneficiary—you’ll need their social security number to open the account—and determine how the money is used. A beneficiary is the future student or the person you open the account for. The sooner you open the account, the better (for tax-deferred growth), although every family’s personal financial situation is different, so it’s really a case-by-case basis.”
PROS Tax savings. Earnings grow taxdeferred, and qualified withdrawals (directly to schools) are tax-free. Easy to set up Anyone is eligible to open an account; 529 plans have no income or age limits. Can switch beneficiaries if need be (for example, if you have multiple kids) Some states offer tax benefits. The donor always stays in control of the account. CONS Could possibly affect your financial aid eligibility Investment options are fairly limited (vs. a traditional investment account). Your 529 account must be used to pay for qualified higher-education expenses at any eligible education institutions: postsecondary trade and vocational schools, two- and four-year colleges, or postgraduate programs (although the new tax bill now allows you to use money in 529 plans to pay for tuition at K-12 schools, some states are updating their own tax codes).
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CUSTOM PUBLISHING ANNUAL REPORTS / COMMEMORATIVE BOOKS / MAGAZINES / & MORE
T HE SKY IS T HE LIMIT .
C O N TACT D E D E D I E RKE S AT 314-918-3006 / D D IE RKE S @ STLMAG.C OM TO I N Q UI R E AB O U T YOU R NE XT C U STOM P U BLIS HING P ROJE CT
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S P EC IA L A DV E R T IS IN G S EC T IO N CAMP PROFILES
FROM ARTS TO ATHLETICS, these summer programs provide plenty of options for children to continue their development outside of the school year. ST. LOUIS
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S P EC IA L A DVE R T IS IN G S EC T IO N CAMP PROFILES
Summer At SLU New Camps & Academies This summer, Summer At SLU welcomes more than 15 new programs, including Android Mobile App Development with Java; Crayola World of Design; Improvisational Comedy Camp; Mad Science: Rocketry Camp and Earth, Space and Beyond!; Minecraft Design Challenge II; Robotics Summer Academy; Summer Structural Engineering Experience; and YouTube for You: Establishing and Promoting your own YouTube Channel, to name a few.
A SLU Kind of Summer!
Summer At SLU, Saint Louis University’s summertime community outreach initiative, packs the summer months with more than 50 camps and academies for pre-K through high school-aged students.
From swimming to soccer, performing to painting and socializing to science, there’s bound to be something that sparks your interest at Saint Louis University this summer. Staples of the Summer At SLU program include the Gardens to Tables Culinary camp, where campers prepare a variety of meals and work with professional chefs; the Engineering and Aviation Academy, where students participate in hands-on activities in aerospace and mechanical engineering, flight science and biomedical engineering; and Camp Invention, where students learn how to build for the future, one thinker at a time.
Higher Purpose, Greater Good Saint Louis University is a Catholic, Jesuit institution that values academic excellence, life-changing research, compassionate health care and a strong commitment to faith and service. Building on a 200year legacy , Saint Louis University continues to move forward with an unwavering commitment to a higher purpose, a greater good.
One North Grand, St. Louis, MO 63103 | 314-977-2330 | summer.slu.edu
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Chesterfield Montessori School Summer Program 14000 Ladue Road, Chesterfield, MO 63017 314-469-7150 | chesterfieldmontessori.org/programs/summer-at-cms
Dive into Summer at CMS! Chesterfield Montessori School offers a quality, fun-filled summer program for children ages 2 ½–12. A perfect complement to the school’s academic year, the summer program offers a continuation of your child’s Montessori experience with a twist! Your children will have the opportunity to take advantage of exploring CMS’s beautiful 5-acre campus through fun and engaging hands-on activities, both indoors and outdoors. Each classroom environment is filled with an array of developmentally appropriate, stimulating lessons given by nurturing and highly trained teaching staff. In addition, children love to spend time on the playground, tend the garden, get creative with seasonal arts and crafts activities, and splash around in the pool with Red Cross-certified swim instructors. All of this makes for one unforgettable summer experience that your children will not want to miss. Half- or full-day options are available, including extended care. Students can either bring lunch from home or register for the Local Chef STL catered lunch program, which provides healthy and delicious meals for the children each day. As a bonus, all CMS families are invited to attend Family Swim Nights each Friday of the summer! Chesterfield Montessori School’s summer program is available only to children enrolled at CMS for the upcoming academic year. To learn more about the admissions process and to download an application, visit: chesterfieldmontessori.org/admissions/admissions-process
Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis Summer Camps
Cor Jesu Academy Enrichment & Sports Camps
2901 N. Grand Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63107 314-335-8000 | bgcstl.org
10230 Gravois Road, St. Louis, MO 63123 314-842-1546 | corjesu.org/camps
Imagine a place where your child can make lifelong friends, visit some of St. Louis’ best attractions, enjoy sporting and cultural activities, take field trips and learn to swim—all in one summer! That place is the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis, which offers day camp for all ages across eight locations in St. Louis City and County. Don’t miss out on one of the most affordable, high-quality programs in the St. Louis area.
Does your daughter enjoy media production, geocaching, knitting, acting, cooking and baking, music, crafts, games, writing or science? Does she want to learn test-taking strategies or mindfulness? Does she want to hone her skills in specific sports? Cor Jesu Academy has just what girls in Grades 3–8 are looking for this summer! Enrichment camps will be held at Cor Jesu June 4–8 and June 11–15, and sports camps will be offered in June and July. Register online today.
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Sporting St. Louis Soccer Camps 12525 Sportport Road, Maryland Heights, MO 63141 314-514-7417 x104 | sportingstl.com/camps Sporting St. Louis would like to invite your child to play, learn and laugh as they make new friends and sharpen their ball-handling skills. Sporting St. Louis’ approach to the game is: “Nothing bad can happen when you possess the ball.” Their summer camps reinforce this idea by building your soccer player’s level of comfort and creativity in maintaining possession of the ball, so they are more confident on the field come game time. Pick one of two week-long summer camps for boys and girls ages 4–18! Sporting St. Louis Skills Camp runs from July 16 through July 20 and will address a wide variety of skills that can be used on the pitch, regardless of what position your child plays. Striker & Goalkeepers Camp runs from July 30 through Aug. 3 and will focus on specific skills that your player can use when it comes time to take or stop shots. Both camps will be held on state-of-the-art turf fields at Sportport International, located in Maryland Heights just minutes from Route 364 and I-70.
Registration Full- and half-day options are available for both camps. For more details and to register online, visit SportingSTL.com/camps.
YMCA Summer Day Camp 21 locations in Missouri and Illinois 314-436-1177 | gwrymca.org/summerdaycamp Amazing things happen when kids unplug and reconnect with others. The Y offers dozens of camps for all interests, including traditional outdoor camps, sports camps and themed camps—like aquatics, cooking, art, theater, science, music and more! With 21 locations across Missouri and Illinois, the Y runs camp weekly from May 29 to Aug. 10. Some branches begin May 22. Camps are available for ages 3–17. Ages, types, schedules and prices vary by branch. Please check with your local branch for specific options.
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Immanuel Lutheran School’s Summer Adventure Camp 115 S. Sixth Street, St. Charles, MO 63301 636-946-0051 | immanuelstcharles.org Immanuel offers summer programs for children ages 3–5 that provide an environment which recognizes and celebrates God’s gift of life in each child. Immanuel’s Summer Adventure Camp will run from May 29 through July 27, with the option to select individual weeks. Weekly themes provide opportunities involving learning centers, STEM adventures, art activities and games. Space is limited, so call soon to register and inquire about availabilities.
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Summer@SLUH St. Louis University High School 4970 Oakland Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63110 314-531-0331 | sluh.org/summer-programs
Summer Programs Summer Enrichment Academy: Available for rising seventh- and eighth-grade boys and girls, Summer Enrichment Academy offers high-achieving students a fun, challenging academic experience. Choose from a variety of class offerings for a full- or part-day schedule in two-hour class periods including Story Writing, Physics, Algebra, Acting Improvisation and Chemistry. Each class is offered in two unique, twoweek sessions, and students may enroll in one or both. There is very little homework, and the programs can be a great way to spark students’ imaginations. Upward Bound Academy: In its 52nd year at SLUH, Upward Bound accepts seventhand eighth-grade boys who will benefit from a fun, engaging and interactive full-day, four-week summer program. It focuses on cultivating executive functioning, mindset and metacognitive skills necessary for success in a college prep, high school curriculum. Robotics Camp: SLUH offers Intro to EV3 and Robotics II (Intro to Robot C). Students in grades 4–8 may participate. Robotics is a fun way to introduce kids to problem-solving and technology. Discover STEM under the award-winning leadership of SLUH’s Robotics team. Athletic Camps: SLUH’s variety of Athletic Camps gives kids ages 8–14 a chance to sharpen their skills on the field. Choose from basketball, baseball, football, golf, lacrosse, rugby and more.
Dates & Registration All programs take place from June to August; dates and fees vary. Visit the website for more details and online registration.
MJ Performing Arts Academy Summer Camps and Classes 15 S. Old Orchard Avenue, Webster Groves, MO 63119 314-968-3903 | mjperformingartsacademy.com MJ Performing Arts Academy is located in the heart of Webster Groves. The Academy’s motto—“Building Happy, Healthy, Fit and Confident Dancers”—drives its instructors and all of their endeavors. MJ offers a wide range of camps and classes such as Acro, Aerial Silks, Ballet, Hip Hop, Jazz, Modern, Preschool, Special Needs, Tap, Tumbling and more. Small class sizes and experienced teachers create a learning environment that is engaging, non-competitive, challenging and fun.
Aestas: The Summer Program at Priory 500 S. Mason Road, St. Louis, MO 63141 314-434-3690 | priory.org/summer Priory’s Aestas program for fourth- through sixth-graders offers engaging academics with dynamic teachers who make learning exciting. At sports camps for kids in Grades 1–12, held on Priory’s beautiful 150-acre campus in West St. Louis County, coaches emphasize the pleasure of playing each sport while developing skills and sportsmanship. Priory’s Aestas program runs June 4–22.
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Tri-Art Maker Camp 6345 Wydown Boulevard, Clayton, MO 63105 314-721-4422 | stmichaelschool.org
About Tri-Art Maker Camp What is a Maker? Someone who creates: a manufacturer, constructor, builder, producer, fabricator, inventor, architect or designer. A very exciting summer is planned at The St. Michael School of Clayton. Through their Tri-Art Maker Camp, campers will experience biking, swimming, clay, sewing, fiber art, science, cooking, designing, inventing, dancing, singing and performing arts. In addition, the camp will feature classic summertime activities such as water balloons and tie dye.
General Information Tri-Art Maker Camp runs for eight one-week sessions beginning June 11. Children from age 4 (by May 1, 2018) to the sixth grade are welcome to attend. The cost per session is $480. Before and after care is available for an additional fee. Camp is filling quickly, so register today. For more information, visit stmichaelschool.org.
Camp Westminster
Wilson Summer Camp
800 Maryville Centre Drive, Town & Country, MO 63017 314-997-2900 | wcastl.org/campwestminster
400 De Mun Avenue, Clayton, MO 63105 314-725-4999 | wilsonschool.com
Paint your own masterpiece, enjoy the outdoors or hit a home run! There’s something for everyone at Camp Westminster, held June 4–29. Half- and full-day summer camps are available for boys and girls, kindergarten through the ninth grade. Campers can choose from more than 30 different camps, including brand new offerings such as Art Around the World; Strings!; and Marvelous Makerspace, a new creative camp. Enthusiastic Westminster teachers and coaches help campers strengthen their God-given interests and abilities.
The Wilson School Summer Camps provide a fun, kid-centered environment where campers entering the second grade can partake in STEM challenges, video game design, Minecraft and visits from local app designers during one or two weeks of Think Camp. Children ages 3 and older can also enjoy theme-based activities, water play and regular trips to Shaw Park as part of Wilson Day Camp. Choose your adventure beginning June 4!
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The College School Summer Camps 7825 Big Bend Boulevard, Webster Groves, MO 63119 314-962-9355 | thecollegeschool.org/summercamp Explore, play, discover, learn and laugh this summer at The College School. Children ages 4–15 develop talents and expand interests while having fun. Campers enjoy discovering through playful themed learning experiences, field trips and swimming. Camp themes include: Maker Space Camp, Splash Science, Animal Allies, Sports, and Nature & Survival. Choose from two-week themed adventure day camps, overnight expeditions and day trips. Before- and after-camp care is available. A sampling of sessions includes: “Maker Space Camp”: Children learn best when the learning is meaningful and fun. This session combines art, science, engineering and literature as campers explore the components of the “maker” movement. Campers will explore different aspects of being a “maker” through building, tinkering and creating. “Picture Perfect”: This camp will explore the wonderful world of photography and art. Campers will become amateur photographers, taking their own photos and turning them into works of art. Campers will display their work in a gallery walk-through for campers, friends and family at the end of camp. “On the Set: Kids Kitchen”: Campers will learn about and cook different types of cuisine from around the world. The camp will culminate in a cooking show that students will record, edit and produce to share with campers and their families. Spend your summer at The College School in Webster Groves!
Discovery Day Camp 2213 S. Levis Lane, Godfrey, IL 62035 618-466-9930 | thenatureinstitute.org Campers will become environmental ambassadors with this full week of exploration, stream discovery and nature knowledge. Children will explore the woods, prairies and ponds on The Nature Institute’s 450 acres of preserved land. Campers will have opportunities to gain STEAM skills while playing on TNI’s certified outdoor classroom. Campers will come home with a new understanding of the region’s natural resources. This day camp is catered to campers ages 3–14 and will be grouped according to age range.
Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri Resident Camp Pevely, MO (Camp Cedarledge) and Troy, MO (Camp Tuckaho) 314-400-4600 | girlscoutsem.org/camp At Resident Camp, girls flex their leadership muscles and try exciting activities while having tons of fun! Girls take chances in a supportive environment where they are encouraged to become leaders not only at camp, but also in the classroom, home and community. Resident Camps are overnight experiences ranging from a few days to a few weeks that offer girls traditional and specialty options. Not a Girl Scout? Not a problem! All girls are welcome.
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Spartan Summer at De Smet Jesuit 233 N. New Ballas Road, St. Louis, MO 63141 314-567-3500 x1449 | desmetjesuit.org/summercamps Spartan Summer at De Smet Jesuit offers a wide variety of academic and athletic camps for elementary and middle school boys at De Smet Jesuit High School’s independent Catholic school campus, conveniently located in Creve Coeur. De Smet knows what campers want to do over the summer. At Spartan Summer, you can: build, investigate, explore, code, solve, invent, film, experiment, design, create, lift, pass, spike, condition and pitch. That’s right … Spartan Summer campers do all that and more! Mix and match morning and afternoon camps and join Spartan Summer for lunch; there’s no need to pack your own! Spartan Summer at De Smet Jesuit: Summer. Starts. Here.
Photo by ProPhotoSTL.com
Laumeier Sculpture Park Summer Art Camps
Craft Alliance Staenberg Summer Camp
12580 Rott Road, St. Louis, MO 63127 314-615-5278 | laumeier.org
6640 Delmar Boulevard, St. Louis, MO 63130 501 N. Grand Boulevard, St. Louis, MO 63103 314-725-1177 | craftalliance.org
Laumeier Sculpture Park offers one-week Summer Art Camps, in half-day morning sessions for ages 4–6 and full-day sessions for ages 6–15, beginning Monday, June 11. Campers learn about art, artists and art history; explore the Park grounds and woodland trails; and find inspiration in the artworks for drawing, painting, sculpting and more! All materials are provided, and each camper receives an exclusive Art Camp T-shirt. Extended day is available for full-day sessions only; additional fees apply.
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Craft Alliance’s Staenberg Summer Camp offers weekly art camps for children and teens, ages 4–18, from May 29 through Aug. 10. Explore hot glass, pottery wheel, metal jewelry, drawing and painting, textile design, tech lab, digital photography, late-day teen camps and more. Choose a morning and afternoon camp and spend the whole day being creative! Located in the Delmar Loop and in Grand Center, camps are taught by artist instructors. Teen Intern opportunities, before and after care, and financial aid are available.
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Community Camps
Countryside Montessori School
900 Lay Road, St. Louis, MO 63124 314-991-0005 | communityschool.com/camp
12226 Ladue Road, Creve Coeur, MO 63141 314-434-2821 | montessori4children.com
Community School offers camps for 3-year-olds to eighth-graders, including arts, academics and just plain summer fun on the school’s beautiful 16-acre campus. Expanded mini camps include more than 40 offerings, with special sessions from COCA, Hi-NRG Gymnastics, Bricks 4 Kidz and more! Community is also partnering with STAGES St. Louis again for two musical theater camps. Plus, there’s Play Camp for the youngest campers and FUNdamentals to fight the summer slump.
Countryside is dedicated to the education of the whole child. Children enjoy a variety of activities during a fun-filled day at Countryside, including pony rides (ages 2–6), swimming instruction/free swim (ages 3–6), water play (ages 1–3), theme-based activities, art, outdoor play and gardening. Countryside offers two-week summer camp sessions from June 4 to Aug. 10. Choose from half-, full- and extended-day options: 8:15 a.m.–12 p.m., 8:15 a.m.–3:15 p.m. or 7 a.m.–5:30 p.m. Give your child a summer to remember!
Chesterfield Day School Summer Camp
TJ Summer Scholars
1100 White Road, Chesterfield, MO 63017 | 314-469-6622 chesterfielddayschool.org/life-at-cds/summer-programs Keep your child’s love of learning strong all summer long! Chesterfield Day School camps are developed and taught by experienced educators with hands-on themes focused on STEM and arts-based learning. Themed preschool camps include art, water play, outdoor adventures, and exploring and collecting objects from nature on the school’s 9-acre, residential campus. Grade school courses include cinematography, drone flight school, design and architecture, and music workshops. Camps are coed, with options for preschool through Grade 6.
4100 S. Lindbergh Boulevard, St. Louis, MO 63127 314-843-4151 | tjs.org Bright minds, big fun! At TJ, there is a belief that young minds can do great things. Your camper will be paired with expert faculty in an intimate environment that fosters critical thinking and creativity. TJ camps offer unique, engaging programming for both the brain and the body. Take a deep dive into Greek mythology, perform a famous Shakespearean sonnet, attend pre-medical school, improve your agility, watch science and fantasy combine, or prepare for the SAT. The opportunities are endless at TJ!
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Missouri S&T Summer Camps 1870 Miner Circle, Rolla, MO 65409 573-341-6222 | summer.mst.edu
Explore a Future Career at Missouri S&T When you think of summer fun, think Missouri University of Science and Technology. Missouri S&T offers an extensive line-up of summer programs that enhance learning and expand knowledge—all in a fun, hands-on environment.
Adventurer? Cyber guru? Space explorer? Campers have the opportunity to build robots, fly rockets, study the environment, work on coding, make a microsatellite, learn about explosives, design a Formula-style electric car and hone their leadership skills. These camps are all about discovering what it takes to have a future career in the science, math, technology and engineering fields. Most camps are a few days to weeklong sessions, providing an opportunity for campers to experience living on a college campus. Sessions fill quickly, so check for space availability, camp fees, enrollment deadlines, and registration or application requirements. Explore what Missouri S&T has to offer at summer.mst.edu.
Mathnasium Learning Centers Clayton-Ladue: 314-863-5454 Creve Coeur: 314-548-6810 West County: 636-527-4955 mathnasium.com Don’t let your child experience the “summer slide” during the break from school. On average, students lose approximately 2.6 months of grade-level equivalency in math over the summer months, according to the Johns Hopkins University Center for Summer Learning. Summer is the best time of year to catch up and get ahead. Call today and learn more about how to make this summer a Mathnasium Summer!
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Passport to Summer at Villa Duchesne and Oak Hill School 801 S. Spoede Road, St. Louis, MO 63131 314-810-3454 | vdoh.org/passporttosummer Passport to Summer welcomes students from all schools to experience athletics, academics and adventure on the campus of Villa Duchesne and Oak Hill School. Day Camps are $295 per week from June 4 through Aug. 3 for boys and girls age 3–grade 6. They include before and after care, meals, field trips and swim lessons. Athletic Camps are $125 per session for boys and girls entering kindergarten–grade 8 and offer instruction in basketball, field hockey, lacrosse and soccer.
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COCA Summer Arts Camps 524 Trinity Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63130 314-725-6555 | cocastl.org COCA prides itself on offering some of the most creative camps around, providing campers with the opportunity to experience new things, build their skills and have tons of fun. Kids and teens will learn to express themselves through poetry, dance, drama, sculpture, songwriting, videography and much more. Full- or halfday weeklong summer arts camps taught by professional artists run June 4–Aug. 17. Before and after care is available.
MMA Confidence, Leadership and Academic Camps Missouri Military Academy 204 N. Grand Street, Mexico, MO 65265 573-581-1776, missourimilitaryacademy.org/summer Build confidence, learn to lead, and have fun! Boys and young men find challenge, motivation and structure to unlock their full potential. Choose Confidence or Leadership Camp for experiences such as paint ball and rappelling to build teamwork and leadership skills. MMA Summer Academy focuses on academic support and gives opportunities to gain high school credit. Residential camps on MMA’s scenic campus are available for ages 8 through 17.
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AGES/GRADES
GENDER
DATES/HOURS
COST
DEADLINE
Grades 4–12
Coed
June 4–29 Weekdays 8 a.m.–3 p.m.
Varies
N/A
Grades 1–12
Coed
Ages 6–18
Coed
June 11–Aug. 3. Weekdays 7:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.
K–Grade 9
Coed
June 4–29 Weekdays 9 a.m.–3 p.m.
Age 3–Grade 6
Coed
AESTAS (AT SAINT LOUIS PRIORY SCHOOL) 314-434-3690 | priory.org/summer
Priory’s Aestas summer program offers engaging academics with dynamic teachers. Sports camps emphasize the pleasure of playing each sport while developing skills and sportsmanship. ART + CHESS CAMP 314-367-8085 | crossroadscollegeprep.org
Beginning and skilled artists and chess players are invited to Crossroads’ Chess and Art Camp. Have fun while building and learning new skills!
June 25–29 Art Camp: 8:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Chess Camp: 1–4:30 p.m.
Half day $175 Full day $300
N/A
BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF GREATER ST. LOUIS SUMMER CAMPS 314-335-8000 | bgcstl.org
Your child can make lifelong friends, visit some of St. Louis’ best attractions, enjoy sporting and cultural activities, take field trips, and learn to swim at one of the area’s most affordable summer programs.
Up to $225
N/A
CAMP WESTMINSTER 314-997-2900 | wcastl.org/campwestminster
Sports, art, music and lots of adventure! Campers will develop God-given gifts and interests, build character and grow relationships at Camp Westminster. Choose from 30-plus camps. CHESTERFIELD DAY SCHOOL SUMMER CAMPS 314-469-6622 | chesterfielddayschool.org
Chesterfield Day School Summer Camps are developed and taught by experienced educators with a focus on arts and STEM-based learning.
Before/after care available
CHESTERFIELD MONTESSORI SCHOOL SUMMER PROGRAM
Session 1: June 4–29 Session 2: July 2–27 closed July 4 Session 3: July 30–August 17
314-469-7150 | chesterfieldmontessori.org/ programs/summer-at-cms/
Chesterfield Montessori School offers a Montessori summer program for children ages 2½–12, providing a good balance of indoor and outdoor activities, swimming lessons, sports activities and creative arts.
Ages 2½–12
Coed
Ages 8+
Coed
314-561-4898 | cocastl.org
Ages 3–18
Coed
314-962-9355 | thecollegeschool.org/summercamp
ST. LOUIS
Varies by part- or full-time
N/A
N/A
$910–$1,970 Extended care $245–$300
April 28
June 4–Aug. 17 Weekdays Full day: 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Half day: 9–11:45 a.m.; 12:15–3 p.m.
$450 per two-week session A quantity discount of $25 applies for multiple sessions/ family members
Starting at $124 per week
N/A
By first day of the camp
Before/after care available
THE COLLEGE SCHOOL ADVENTURE DAY CAMPS AND EXPEDITIONS
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June 4–Aug. 10 Five two-week sessions 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Before/after care available
COCA SUMMER ARTS CAMPS
Every summer, The College School offers a variety of camps for children. Experience some wonderful adventures and find out for yourself why The College School camps are so popular!
Full day $230
Before/after care available
314-436-7676 | circusharmony.org/summer
Ignite creativity! COCA offers a unique and fun-filled summer experience for kids and teens taught by professional artists and teachers. Find your passion this summer at COCA!
Weekdays 8 a.m.–3 p.m. Half- and full-day sessions
CIRCUS HARMONY PERFORMANCE SUMMER CAMPS
World-renowned Circus Harmony offers kids the chance to leap into circus arts, such as juggling, trapeze and wire walking, while boosting their social-emotional learning.
June 4–Aug. 3 8:30 a.m.–3 p.m.
Half day $115
Ages 4–15
Coed
June–August 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Before/after care available
Two-week themed adventure day camp $475
When full
Overnight expeditions $550
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AGES/GRADES
GENDER
Age 4–Grade 8
Coed
DATES/HOURS
COST
DEADLINE
Varies
May 15
$125
May 11
COMMUNITY SCHOOL CAMPS 314-991-0005 | communityschool.com/camp
Community School offers a variety of camps, including STEM, arts and academics. Half- and full-day options are available in more than 45 different sessions.
May 29–Aug. 10 Weekdays 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Before/after care available
COR JESU ACADEMY ENRICHMENT & SPORTS CAMPS 314-842-1546 | corjesu.org/camps
Girls in grades 3–8 will enjoy camps geared toward geocaching, knitting, games and more, along with honing their skills in a variety of sports.
Grades 3–8
Girls
COUNTRYSIDE MONTESSORI SCHOOL
June 4–Aug. 10 2–10 week sessions
314-434-2821 | montessori4children.com
Join Countryside Montessori School for daily activities including pony rides (ages 2–6), swimming/water play, fun classroom and science activities, art, gardening and outdoor play in Countryside’s new trike area.
June 4–8 and June 11–15 8–10 a.m. and 10:15 a.m.–12:15 p.m.
Ages 1–6
Coed
Weekdays Half day: 8:15 a.m.–12 p.m. Full day: 8:15 a.m.–3:15 p.m. Ext. day: 7 a.m.–5:30 p.m.
Varies
N/A
Ages 4–18
Coed
May 29–Aug. 10
Varies
N/A
Ages 3–6 $135
Coed
June–August Weekdays Ages 3–6: 8:30 a.m.–12 p.m All others: 8:30 a.m.–3 p.m.
CRAFT ALLIANCE STAENBERG SUMMER CAMP 314-725-1177 | craftalliance.org
Children and teens can explore hot glass, pottery, metal jewelry, drawing and painting, textile design, digital photography and more in weekly art camps. DISCOVERY DAY CAMP 618-466-9930 | thenatureinstitute.org
Become environmental ambassadors with nature exploration. Campers explore acres of preserved land and have opportunities to gain STEAM skills in this certified outdoor classroom.
ENDANGERED WOLF CENTER SUMMER CAMPS 636-938-5900 | endangeredwolfcenter.org
Adventures await at the Endangered Wolf Center summer camps. Campers will explore the world of the wolf by visiting the amazing animals, experiencing nature, playing fun games and creating wildlife art.
Ages 3–12+ (grouped by age)
All others $195
Ages 12+ have one overnight camp Pup Camp Ages 4–5 Wolf Camp Ages 6–12 (grouped by age)
Coed
Teen Camp Ages 13–15 (includes an overnight stay)
Two weeks before session start date
Members $50–$200
June and July Dates and hours vary Before/after care available
Nonmembers $60–$215
N/A
FICTION WRITING FOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS 314-578-4434 | stlouiswritersworkshop.com
Students will participate in craft discussions and writing prompts, and will be given concrete, actionable and encouraging feedback on their fiction manuscripts. Limited to eight participants.
Grades 9–12
Coed
June 21–July 19 Thursdays 6–8 p.m.
$180
June 15
Age 3–Grade 6
Coed
June 11–Aug. 10 One-week sessions
$275 per week
N/A
Grades 1–11
Girls
June 3–Aug. 3
Varies by camp
Two weeks before camp start date
FORSYTH SUMMER DISCOVERY 314-726-4542 | forsythonline.com
Unplug and enjoy summer in Forsyth School’s backyard! Climb, perform, water play and so much more. More than four dozen camps are designed by Forsyth School faculty. GIRL SCOUTS OF EASTERN MISSOURI RESIDENT CAMP 314-400-4600 | girlscoutsem.org/camp
Girl Scout Resident Camps are overnight experiences ranging from a few days to a few weeks that offer girls traditional and specialty options.
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AGES/GRADES
GENDER
DATES/HOURS
Grades 2–9
Coed
June 18–July 1 July 2–15 July 16–29
Ages 7–18
Coed
June–August Day and overnight programs; hours vary
Coed
May 29–July 27 Half day: 8:15–11:15 a.m. School day: 8:15 a.m.–3:15 p.m. Full day: 8:15 a.m.–6 p.m.
HAVAYA ARTS 833-HAV-ARTS (428-2787) | havayaarts.org
Havaya Arts is a new Jewish overnight arts camp based in Southern California. Specializing in theater, dance, music and visual art, Havaya Arts helps campers grow as intentional artists and amazing human beings.
COST
DEADLINE
$3,100 per session Scholarships and financial aid available
As soon as possible
iD TECH CAMPS 1-844-788-1858 | idtech.com
iD Tech is the world’s No. 1 summer STEM program, with world-class instructors and innovative courses in coding, game development, robotics and design held at 150 prestigious universities. IMMANUEL LUTHERAN SCHOOL'S SUMMER ADVENTURE CAMP 636-946-0051 | immanuelstcharles.org
Immanuel offers summer programs that provide an environment which recognizes and celebrates God’s gift of life in each child. Weekly themes give opportunities with learning centers, STEM adventures, art activities and games.
Ages 3–5
LAUMEIER SCULPTURE PARK SUMMER ART CAMPS
N/A
Half day $20 per day School day $35 per day
When full
Full day $45 per day
Half day $120 per week
One day before the start of weekly session
Ages 4–15
Coed
June 11–Aug. 3 Weekdays Ages 4–6: 9 a.m.–12 p.m. Ages 6–15: 9 a.m.–3 p.m.
Grades 1–12
Coed
May 30–Aug. 11 Weekdays
Grades 4–12
Coed
June and July Three-day and weeklong sessions
Ages 3–18
Coed
June 18–Aug. 3 Monday–Thursday 10 a.m.–12 p.m.
$120
Friday before camp (by 2 p.m.)
Age 3–Grade 8
Coed
May 29–Aug. 3 Weekdays 7:15 a.m.–6 p.m.
$125–$295 per session
May 25
Grades 1–8
Boys
May 28–July 27 Hours vary
$75–$220
N/A
314-615-5278 | laumeier.org
Campers (divided into groups by age) explore different art media and styles; discover new friends and ideas; and create awesome works of art!
Varies by location and course
Full day $210 per week
MATHNASIUM SUMMER PROGRAMS Clayton-Ladue: 314-863-5454 | Creve Coeur: 314-548-6810 | West County: 636-527-4955
Mathnasium summer programs are designed to prevent summer learning loss. With just two or three one-hour sessions per week, your child will train, build up and improve their overall math skills.
Contact center for pricing
N/A
MISSOURI S&T SUMMER CAMPS 573-341-6222 | summer.mst.edu
When you think of summer fun, think Missouri S&T! Missouri S&T offers an extensive line-up of summer programs that enhance learning and expand knowledge—all in a fun, hands-on environment. MJ PERFORMING ARTS ACADEMY SUMMER CAMPS AND CLASSES 314-968-3903 | mjperformingartsacademy.com
MJ Performing Arts Academy offers various weekly day camps in Dance, Acro and Aerial.
Varies
PASSPORT TO SUMMER AT VILLA DUCHESNE AND OAK HILL SCHOOL 314-810-3454 | vdoh.org/passporttosummer
Passport to Summer welcomes boys and girls from all schools to experience athletics, academics and adventure on the campus of Villa Duchesne and Oak Hill School. SPARTAN SUMMER AT DE SMET JESUIT 314-567-3500 | desmet.org/spartansummer
Spartan Summer at De Smet Jesuit offers exciting and challenging camp programs for middle school boys at De Smet’s private Catholic school campus in Creve Coeur.
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S P EC IA L A DV E R T IS IN G S EC T IO N S P EC IA L A DV E R T IS IN G S EC T IO N CAMP PROFILES
AGES/GRADES
GENDER
DEADLINE
$70–$230
One week before the start of each camp
$480 per session
N/A
Strikers & Goalkeepers Ages 4–18
Coed
Camp July 30–Aug. 3 Half- and full-day options available
THE ST. MICHAEL SCHOOL OF CLAYTON SUMMER CAMPS 314-721-4422 | stmichaelschool.org
The St. Michael School’s camp is designed for the Maker, someone who desires exploring, designing, tinkering, inventing, building and more. In addition, the camp will feature classic summertime activities such as water balloons and tie dye.
COST
Sporting St. Louis Soccer Camp July 16–20
SPORTING ST. LOUIS SOCCER CAMPS 347-768-5373 | sportingstl.com/camps
Soccer players can learn a wide variety of skills regardless of their position in Sporting Skills Camp, or learn skills related to taking or stopping shots in Sporting Strikers & Goalkeepers Camp.
DATES/HOURS
June 11–Aug. 3 9 a.m.–3 p.m.
Age 4 (by May 1)– Grade 6 (entering Fall 2018)
Coed
Grades 2–8
Coed
Pre-K–Grade 12
Coed
Grades 2–12
Coed
June 4–Aug. 10 Weekdays; times vary
$250–$425
May 15
Grades 9–10
Coed
June 18–July 13 Weekdays 7:45 a.m.–12 p.m.
Free
May 4
$265–$650 per week
N/A
Before/after care available
SUMMER@SLUH 314-531-0330 | sluh.org/summer-programs
Students in grades 2–8 can sharpen their skills in the classroom and on the field through a variety of academic and athletic-oriented offerings.
May 31 June 11–July 27
Varies
Online registration
SUMMER AT SLU 314-977-2330 | summer.slu.edu
Saint Louis University offers more than 50 camps and academies for Pre-K through high school students, from performing a play in theatre camp to hands-on experience in SLU’s medical academies.
Varies by program
TJ SUMMER SCHOLARS 314-843-4151 | tjs.org
At TJ, there is a belief that young minds can do great things. Your camper will be paired with expert faculty in an intimate environment that fosters critical thinking, creativity and fun! UMSL BRIDGE PROGRAM SUMMER ACADEMY 314-516-5196 | umsl.edu/precollegiate
The Summer Academy offers academic enrichment in the core areas of mathematics, science, written and oral communication, career research and identification, personal and professional development, college planning, and ACT preparation. WILSON SCHOOL SUMMER CAMPS 314-725-4999 | wilsonschool.com
The Wilson School's Think Camp features one or two weeks of STEM challenges, video game design and visits from local app designers. Wilson Summer Camp runs for eight weeks and features themed activities in addition to trips to Shaw Park.
Think Camp Grades 2–6 Wilson Summer Camp Age 3–Grade 6
Coed
June and July Weeklong sessions Before/after care available
YMCA CAMP LAKEWOOD 573-438-2155 | camplakewood.org
YMCA Camp Lakewood is an overnight summer camp for boys and girls that provides opportunities for enjoying outdoor experiences, including water, sports and adventure activities, learning new skills and making new friends.
N/A Ages 6–17
YMCA SUMMER DAY CAMP gwrymca.org/program/summer-day-camp
Ages 3–13
The Y offers camps for all interests, including traditional outdoor camps, sports camps and themed camps—aquatics, cooking, art, theater, science, music and more!
Varies by location and camp
Coed
June 3–Aug. 8 10 sessions
Varies by session
Coed
Weekdays Times vary by location and camp
Varies by location and camp
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Pending availability
One week before the start of each camp Pending availability
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DINING
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ELEPHANT POWER
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SPEAKING THEIR LANGUAGE
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AN ENTREPRENEURIAL COUPLE’S MEAL PLAN
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MIND OVER MATTER Elephant Power yoga classes get kids moving—while keeping them grounded. BY SARAH KLOEPPLE
“If I were a tree, what would I look like? If I were a cat, what would I sound like?” Those are some of the movement prompts children’s yoga teacher Candace Glass gives her students. After working in elementary education for more than 20 years, Glass traded the classroom for the yoga studio. She now runs Elephant Power, a children’s yoga program based at Southtown Yoga in Lafayette Square. Glass also takes her yoga and mindfulness classes to area schools. Sessions include "Big Yogi, Little Yogi" (a yoga class for ages 2–6 and their parent or guardian) and classes and summer camps for ages 7–12. Glass gets youngsters moving through engaging songs and then progresses to yoga postures and partner work. Classes also include story time and an art activity. With the older kids, Glass often focuses on mindfulness—staying in a moment. They focus on breathing and then strike more complex yoga postures, such as backbends and arm balances. They also do activities related to the day’s theme (e.g., uniqueness, generosity, kindness) and share their work. “I think it’s important for kids to know they’re not alone in their feelings,” Glass says. The result? Children with more awareness and control of their actions and emotions, as well as compassion for peers when they get upset. With a laugh, Glass adds, “I always find it funny when parents say to me, ‘Yeah, the other day my kid told me I needed to take a few deep breaths and calm down.’”
Photography courtesy of Creatista
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DIY FOR HIRE TO LEARN MORE
ELEPHANT Don’tABOUT have the time to make every cute idea on Pinterest? POWER, VISITThanks to local mom and crafter Megan WEAREELEPHANT Swiney, commissioning a project POWER.COM. is as easy as posting a photo on Facebook. Crafted in St. Louis, a Facebook group with
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ASK THE DOCTOR
SPRING/SUMMER 2018
SPEAKING THEIR LANGUAGE How to identify and address childhood speech disorders BY CJ LOTZ
Forty million Americans have some form of communication dis-
order. We spoke with Kimberly Camba of Camba Speech & Language Therapy about childhood speech disorders. Camba is an American Speech Language Hearing Association (ASHA)–certified speech language pathologist who grew up in St. Louis, earned her bachelor’s degree from Saint Louis University, and received her master’s degree from the University of Redlands in California. She works with private clients and in schools with children ages 4–16.
school, and usually teachers are good about noticing if a child is hard to understand in class or if they’re struggling with stories, reading, or understanding narrative. Those might be signs to call a speech therapist. What can a child and parent expect when seeing a speech language pathologist, whether that’s for stuttering, lisping, or cognitive speech disorders? We emphasize, “You can do this; we
just need to practice a little bit. You’re already successful at many things; we just need to work on a couple others.” I try to do activities that touch on a child’s interests. If I have a kid who loves superheroes, I’ll try to incorporate activities where he is a superhero who must talk through obstacles.
What are some helpful parenting tips regarding how children develop language skills? One of the most
important things you can do for your child at any age, especially if you have speech and language concerns, is putting them in a language-enriched environment. Singing, reading books, and telling stories are all great. I also tell parents to narrate during daily routines and talk about the world around them as much as possible, like at home, in the grocery store, at the park, and at the zoo.
ABOUT THE DOCTOR The owner of Camba Speech & Language Therapy, Kimberly Camba has worked with clients of all ages.
Why are trust and confidence so important? Selfesteem and speech go hand in hand. You can have the physical skills to produce a good “r” sound, but if you’re not confident, you might not be motivated to practice. Articulation is a lot of muscle memory.
What kinds of signs let a parent know their child might need to see a speech therapist? For infants, if they aren’t
What is the best way to correct speech in the moment? I always
trying to make eye contact or if they aren’t making as many babbling noises as you’d expect—it might be a good time to call a speech therapist. For toddlers, make sure they’re trying to interact with adults and other kids. If they don’t have their first word by about 12–14 months, then consider a specialist. Kids develop at a faster rate when they’re in
emphasize the child’s strengths. If I’m going to criticize, I sandwich the criticism in positives. Just letting a kid be a kid is important, too, and we shouldn’t comment every time the kid talks. Let them talk just to communicate their ideas with you. Praise them when they have smooth speech.
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SLCH_F
Elsie, Age 5 Chesterfield, MO
EPILEPSY SHOULD NEVER INTERRUPT SWIM CLASS That’s why we have iMRI technology on our side. At St. Louis Children’s Hospital, we believe childhood shouldn’t be interrupted by serious conditions, like epilepsy. So our team uses the very latest pediatric insights and innovations, including intraoperative MRI, to treat epilepsy patients like Elsie who suffers from daily seizures. This unique technology allowed doctors to see images of her brain in real time during the surgery, for pinpoint accuracy in removing her lesions. Now Elsie is seizure free. Which means Elsie can get back to being a kid. Because we’re not just experts in our field, we’re Guardians of Childhood.
© St. Louis Children’s Hospital 2018
Meet Elsie at StLouisChildrens.org/Elsie
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EAT
SPRING/SUMMER 2018
IT'S 6 O'CLOCK SOMEWHERE After perfecting a new breast pump, this entrepreneurial couple tackles the question, “What’s for dinner?” at home. BY JENNY AGNEW
Samantha Rudolph, a former director of
business development at ESPN, turned to her engineer husband, Jared Miller, with an idea that eventually led them to found Babyation, a “parent-tech company” that makes breast pumps for the modern family. In creating the breast pump, the Rudophs were “looking to solve actual problems parents have,” says Samantha. A St. Louis native, she moved her family back after winning a $50,000 Arch Grant last year. The couple and their 2-year-old son, Exton (the company’s Chief Baby Officer), love food but don’t always have time to cook elaborate meals. Here's how they do it. MORE VEGGIES, PLEASE!
When the family eats together, their tastes aren’t always the same. Samantha naturally gravitates toward salads and vegetarian fare, while Jared goes for a traditional hot meal with meat, vegetables, and a grain. A healthy balance keeps everyone happy, but Jared gives all the credit to his wife for inspiring the family to “eat well.”
THE COOKS
Samantha Rudolph and Jared Miller CHILDREN
Exton, 2 OCCUPATION
Co-founders of The Pump by Babyation WEBSITE
Babyation.com
MEAL PREP
Jared built Exton a kitchen stool, so he can stand at the kitchen counter and assist with meal preparation. Exton’s specialties include eggs and coffee, while Jared has developed a “whole new skill set” of holding a child while cooking.
COOKING TRENDS
Though the family does own an Instant Pot, they use the recipes on the New York Times Cooking app far more often.
HEALTHY COMPETITION
Samantha and Jared will sometimes choose a main course, such as a beef brisket, and then compete while preparing it à la Iron Chef America.
He might smoke brisket in his kamado-style grill outside while she braises the meat inside. SATURDAY DATE NIGHT
The couple tries to reserve Saturday nights for themselves, often going out to a nice restaurant. The pair say they have an abundance of dining options, thanks to St. Louis' evolving restaurant scene. Samantha’s current obsession is poke; Jared laments that Sugarfire is “way too close to the office.”
SAMPLE WEEKLY DINNER MENU MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
SUNDAY
Big salad with arugula, farro, and roasted veggies
Big salad for Sam; leftover turkey/ veggies for Jared
Homemade poke bowls
Instant Pot or slow cooker meal
Thai takeout
Date night
Smoked turkey with roasted veggies
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Photography by Emily Lucarz Photography
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TICKETSSTL .COM ★★★★
LOCAL EVENTS. LOCAL TICKETS. CONCERTS & FESTIVALS FUNDRAISERS & GALAS BREWERY TOURS & WINE TASTINGS NETWORKING MIXERS & WORKSHOPS POP-UP DINNERS & COOKING CLASSES THEATER PRODUCTIONS AND MORE! SELL TICKETS FOR YOUR NEXT EVENT AT NO COST TO YOU. CONTACT TICKETSSTL AT 314-918-3026.
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PLAN SPRING/SUMMER 2018
TOP 10
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DEEP BLUE SEA Artifacts from a lost, ancient city—rescued from underwater What was life like in Greece and Egypt between 600 B.C. and 200 A.D.? Sunken Cities: Egypt’s Lost Worlds tells that story on a grand scale. Examining two vanished Egyptian cities, the exhibit includes a new cache of artifacts rescued from the Mediterranean Sea bed by maritime archaeologist Franck Goddio, who “has to do everything a dryland archaeologist does but in a scuba suit and underwater,” says cocurator Lisa Çakmak, assistant curator of ancient art at the Saint Louis Art Museum. The show includes objects never seen outside Egypt and the exhibit’s centerpiece: a trio of colossal (as in 16-footplus) religious statues in the Sculpture Hall.
CHECK IT OUT! March 25–September 9, Saint Louis Art Museum, slam.org
—STEFENE RUSSELL
Photography by Cristoph Gerigk, copyright Frank Goddio/Hilti Foundation
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TOP 10 EVENTS
SPRING/SUMMER 2018
TOP 10 The best family events this spring and summer. BY SKYLER MILTON
Busch Performance Hall at Blanche M. Touhill Performing Arts Center. 314-5164949, touhill.org.
MAY DIY20
FOR HIRE
MAY
Dance the night away at the Disney Junior Dance Party on Tour, where everyone is welcome to sing, play, and dance with their favorite Disney Junior characters, including Vampirina and Doc McStuffins. May 10, 6 p.m. Tickets $20–$75. Peabody Opera House. 800-745-3000, ticketmaster.com.
APRIL
Circus Flora swings into action with new dates, a new permanent location in Grand Center, and a new production, The Case of the Missing Bellhop, a mystery show featuring circus tricks. April 21–May 13 with a peanut-free preview on April 19. Tickets start at $12. Circus Flora big top. 314-534-1111, circus flora.org. Get active at Go! St. Louis Marathon and Family Fitness
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Weekend, where families can run anything from a 5K to a marathon, and kids can participate in a children’s fun run. April 7 in Forest Park and April 8 in Downtown St. Louis. Registration ranges from $12 to $165 depending on the event. gostlouis.org. Catch the magic of St. Louis Ballet’s production of Cinderella and watch the timeless rags-to-riches fairy tale come to life. April 13–15. Tickets $35–$69. Anheuser-
JUNE
Head south to the Kimmswick Strawberry Festival for historic charm, craft booths, and live entertainment. Don’t miss the carnival rides, pony rides, and petting zoo for the kids. June 2 & 3, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Free. Kimmswick. cityofkimmswick.org.
One hundred years of musical theater is worth Don’t have the time tobirthday make evcelebrating! Enjoy ery cute Pinterest? Thanks cake,idea live on entertainment, and to local and crafterat Megan tonsmom of kids activities the Swiney, commissioning a project Muny’s 100th Birthday Bash. is asMay easy20. as Free. posting a photo muny.org on Facebook. Crafted in St. Louis, a Facebook group with Want to spend more time outside as a family? Stop by the third annual Life Outside Festival by Great Rivers Greenway, and enjoy activities like tree climbing, paddle boarding, kayaking, and nature crafts. June 9, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Free. Creve Coeur Lake Memorial Park. greatrivers greenway.org.
JULY
The Fair Saint Louis Independence Day Celebration returns to its original home at the Gateway Arch grounds. Come for the live music, food, and family activities, and stay for the fireworks over the Arch. July 4, 6, & 7. Free. Gateway Arch grounds. fairsaintlouis.org.
COCA presents the classic American musical West Side Story, set in 1950s New York City with a bright, talented young cast. July 27 & 28. Tickets $14–$18. Edison Theatre at Washington University. 314-561-4877. Ages 6 and up. cocastl.org.
AUGUST
An ode to our French heritage, the Festival of the Little Hills (Fête des Petites Côtes) in historic St. Charles never disappoints with its selection of kids activities, crafts, and performances. August 17–19. Free. Frontier Park, St. Charles. festivalofthe littlehills.com.
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RESTAURANT LISTINGS
DINING OUT Navigating the region’s most family-friendly restaurants BY GEORGE MAHE
Restaurants in these listings are chosen by the editorial staff on the basis of family-friendliness. Please note: With few exceptions, we’ve tried to include mainly locally owned restaurants. The magazine accepts no advertising or other consideration in exchange for listings.
5
KIDS’ MENU COLORING BOOKS GAMES HIGH CHAIRS/BOOSTERS CHANGING STATION BIRTHDAY DESSERT BIRTHDAY SINGING RESERVABLE ROOM $ ENTRÉES $10 OR LESS $$ ENTRÉES $11–$17 $$$ ENTRÉES $18–$24 $$$$ ENTRÉES $25 OR MORE
BAILEYS’ RANGE There’s no way to get bored at Baileys’. You can watch the burgers get made and the ketchup, pickles, and burger buns get put in place. Add to that 22 flavors of ice cream and sorbet, and it’s the best-tasting show in town. 20 Olive, 314241-8121, baileysrange. com. 5 $–$$
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BLUEBERRY HILL There’s plenty to keep kids busy at this longtime St. Louis landmark. They can play one of many games (including those embedded in the tabletops), or maybe they’d rather just gawk at the décor. 6504 Delmar, 314-727-4444, blueberryhill.com.
5
$
THE BOATHOUSE– FOREST PARK This iconic gathering place for lunch, dinner, and brunch overlooks Forest Park’s Post-Dispatch
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Lake. Kids can feed the fish and ducks, and the sprawling patio is pet-friendly. The new menu, debuting in April, features favorites from Cyrano’s, Hi-Pointe Drive-In, and Sugarfire Smokehouse. Paddleboats are available for rent, weather permitting. 6101 Government, 314-367-2224, boathouseforest park.com. 5
COLLEEN’S Kids of all ages will love the plethora of creative cookies and sweets—and now savory tarts, scones, and soups—in the “spot under the dot.” 7337 Forsyth, 314-727-8427, colleenscookies.com.
$
$–$$
ordering at the counter and having the pizza served within minutes. Five area locations; crushedred.com.
5
5 CYRANO’S CAFE If it’s a great-tasting dessert you want, look no further than Cyrano’s. It’s famous for fun desserts, like the legendary, bet-you-can’t-finishit Cleopatra. 603 E. Lockwood, 314-9633232, cyranos.com.
5 CAFÉ MANHATTAN Kids of all ages will love the ’50s diner memorabilia. If it’s classic you want, order a burger with fries and a milkshake. Or go St. Louis classic with a thin-crust pizza and toasted ravs. There’s penny candy, too. 505 S. Hanley, 314-863$–$$ 5695. 5 CARL’S DRIVE-IN Nothing screams hamburger stand louder than Carl’s, and no kid can refuse a flat-grilled cheeseburger and a homemade root beer in a frozen mug. Finish with a Ronnie’s Rocky Mountain, an XL version of the Drumstick. 9033 Manchester, 314-961-9652. $
CROWN CANDY KITCHEN A corner shop to take you back to the good old days, Crown Candy is a St. Louis treasure, known for its chocolate candy, classic sandwiches, and serves-two milkshakes and malts. Don’t leave without buying some molasses puffs or heavenly hash. 1401 St. Louis, 314-621-9650, crowncandykitchen. $–$$ net. CRUSHED RED URBAN BAKE & CHOP SHOP Perhaps the notion of a fresh-chopped salad isn’t your child’s idea of nirvana, but the $5 cheese pizza will be. The kids will also cheer
$
sic thin-crust pizza and toasted ravioli, plus Italian classics for grownups. 9525 Manchester, 314-9620048, farottos.com.
$–$$
DEWEY’S PIZZA Kids order their pizza and then watch it being tossed, topped, and baked while the adults look on from a distance, sipping on a pint. Multiple locations; deweyspizza. $ com. EL BURRO LOCO The colorful décor and mind-blowing array of Mexican pop icons alone is worth the trip. The namesake mural on one wall will be the, um, butt of many jokes. 313 N. Euclid, 314-224-5371. 5
$–$$ FAROTTO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT & PIZZERIA A legendary St. Louis pizzeria, Farotto’s serves up a clas-
$$
FITZ’S Parents and grandparents can wax nostalgic about root-beer floats and burgers topped with Kitchen Sauce. Kids can counter with modern classics like The Dreamboat (a float made with Fitz’s orange soda), as well as watch sodas being bottled. 6605 Delmar, 314-7269555, fitzsrootbeer.com.
5
$
FIVE STAR BURGERS Five Star Burgers lays claim to many local firsts: custom-blended beef, a “flat-grill then flame-grill” cooking technique, and a soda fountain that features Maine Root sodas, all made the old-fashioned way. 8125 Maryland, 314720-4350; 11621 Olive, 314-942-6450; 5starburgersstl.com.
5
$–$$
THE FOUNTAIN ON LOCUST The Fountain is a little one’s dream restaurant, with an old-fashioned soda fountain, booths, and a menu that includes such treats as PB-and-banana
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sandwiches and the world’s smallest hot fudge sundae. 3037 Locust, 314-5357800, fountain onlocust.com.
5
$
N. McKnight Road to go from cup to cone at Jilly’s Ice Cream Bar. There are 20 flavors, plus cones made from cupcake batter, and gluten-free ice cream is available. Two area locations; jillyscupcakebar.com.
5
GUS’S WORLD FAMOUS FRIED CHICKEN Adults prefer Gus’s signature spicy chicken, whereas kids gravitate toward the less spicy chicken fingers. Either way, there’s a reason the place is nearly always packed. 7434 Manchester, 314-899-9899,gusfried chicken.com. 5 $ HODAK’S RESTAURANT This chicken lover’s paradise provides a kid-friendly dining atmosphere and expands kids’ horizons beyond whatever part of the chicken a “nugget” might be. Hot dogs, burgers, and grilled cheese can also be found on the kids’ menu. 2100 Gravois, 314-776-7292, hodaks. com. 5
$–$$ JILLY’S CUPCAKE BAR & CAFÉ & ICE CREAM BAR Jilly’s has yummy cupcakes that are as fun to see as they are to eat. Plus, the café offers an excellent selection of sandwiches and salads. Then, for dessert, head 20 steps to 608
$
KATIE’S PIZZA AND PASTA OSTERIA With modern interiors, sprawling patios, and fresh ingredients, both Katie’s locations are invariably hip— and family-friendly. The kid’s menu includes 7-inch pizzas and generous portions of pasta. And to keep tykes entertained, Katie’s offers balls of dough. Two locations. katies pizzaandpasta.com.
5
$$
$$
MILQUE TOAST BAR Breads, stews, topped toasts, and openfaced sandwiches pair nicely with several local dairy and flavored grain milks. MTB is teeny-tiny, but there’s a charming patio in the back. 2212 S. Jefferson, 314-833-0085, milque toastbar.org.
$ KINGSIDE DINER From the owners of Herbie’s, this chess-themed diner is several steps above other local diners. The second-floor terrace is the preferred perch for enjoying blue-plate specials, breakfast, or a double griddle burger with cheese fries. 4651 Maryland, 314-4543957, kingsidediner. com. 5
THE ORIGINAL PANCAKE HOUSE The OPH might have the best pancakes in town, which is the only reason needed to take your kids there. 8817 Ladue, 314-932-1340; 17000 Chesterfield Airport, 636-536-4044; originalpancake housestlouis.com.
5
$–$$
$–$$ McARTHUR’S BAKERY CAFÉ Besides serving up renowned muffins, cookies, and cakes, the new-andimproved Kirkwood location offers soups, salads, sandwiches, and half-and-half options in a café setting. Three locations; mcarthurs.com.5
$
Photography by Kevin A. Roberts, courtesy of Shake Shack
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ROCK & BREWS The rock ‘n’ rollthemed restaurant serves scratch-made American fare. The 120-seat, dog-friendly conservatory includes a play area for kids. 17258 Chesterfield Airport, 636-536-2739, rockandbrews.com.5
PASTARIA Gerard Craft’s family-oriented Italian restaurant serves up house-made pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and
what might just be the best gelato around. The restaurant has an informal “town hall” feel. It doesn’t take reservations. 7734 Forsyth, 314-862-6603, pastariastl.com. 5
THE SHACK Breakfast is served all day at this informal hot spot. The “skillet” dishes are delicious, and the popular gluten-free menu is also a selling point. Five metro area locations. 5 $–$$
$$ PI PIZZERIA Who knew math could be so delicious? Pi’s thick cornmeal crust has won over many a convert, but the thin crust is great, too. And don’t forget that the Kirkwood location has a milkshake bar. Multiple locations, 314-3674300, restaurantpi. $–$$ com. P’SGHETTI’S PASTA AND SANDWICHES If nothing else, the kids will get the pronunciation right. Sure to satisfy any appetite, the family special will load you up with enough mostaccioli for a week. The restaurant’s signature bread is good enough to fight over. 10012 Manchester, 314-822-2345; 5540 S. Lindbergh, 314-849-5332; 1120 Technology, O’Fallon, Mo., 636-329-1114; psghettis.com.
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THE SLIDER HOUSE A 4-ounce slider is the perfect kid-size burger. Choose from 18 varieties, plus healthy salads, sides, shakes, and party cases to go. 9528 Manchester, thesliderhouse.com.
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WOOFIE’S If you want to enjoy an old favorite, go for a regular hot dog or customize your own at Woofie’s. Attention, adults: A Chicago-style dog (or several) is mandatory. 1919 Woodson, 314-426-6291. $ YA YA’S EURO BISTRO This upscale restaurant treats children to a Euro-inspired touch of class. Stop by the toy box at the hostess stand before the kids dig into their complimentary desserts. Expectant mothers get reserved parking. 15601 Olive, 636-537-9991, yayasstl.com. 5
$$$
ST. LOUIS
SHAKE SHACK The first local outpost of Danny Meyer’s now-famous homage to the flatgrilled burgers, hot dogs, crinkle-cut fries, and custard concretes of his St. Louis youth opened in December and continues to receive rave reviews from food critics of all ages. Just in time for summer, a trio of new custard flavors debuts in May. 60 N. Euclid, 314-6275518, shakeshack. com —G.M.
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Public Misbehavior
“The thing you learn very quickly as a parent is the law of karma: The minute you judge another parent for the behavior of their kids, your child will, in short order, do the exact same thing!” —MIMI PULTMAN, CHESTERFIELD, PARENT TO A 16- AND AN 18-YEAR-OLD
WE CONCEDE! Parents share how their pre-kid naiveté got the best of them. —PAM WILSON
Explicit Lyrics
“We thought we’d monitor what our kids listen to—especially those songs on the radio with filthy lyrics. Once we had kids of our own, we saw how things really are and how hard it is to keep any idealistic promises.”
up his back. In an instant, I grabbed him and walked straight out the front door, leaving the cart full of groceries. I did not go near that store for years!” —KRISTI, KIRKWOOD, PARENT TO
—MARIANNE, CHESTERFIELD, PARENT TO A 17- AND
A 19- AND A 17-YEAR-OLD AND 12-YEAR-OLD TWINS
Endless Questions
“We were at the grocery store when my oldest son (then 2½ years old) said, ‘Mommy, I go potty.’ He had pooped all over the cart and
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AN 18- AND A 16-YEAR-OLD
Family Pets
“We were leaving on vacation and didn’t want to deal with a betta fish. Need I say more than ‘flush’?” —KAREN, WILDWOOD, PARENT TO A 20AND AN 18-YEAR-OLD
A 16-YEAR-OLD
Exploding Poo
said, ‘Because I told you so,’ and if that didn’t work, I said, ‘Because I’m the parent!’ I still feel guilty.” —ANGELA, UNIVERSITY CITY, PARENT TO
“I knew I would always answer every question my kids asked, no matter what. But when my oldest son started talking and questioning everything, it grew old fast. Finally, I just
24/7 Yoga Pants
“I was at a child’s birthday party a few years ago with my daughter, and it just happened to be one of those days I was wearing workout clothes. The moms were standing around talking and asked me, ‘Are you a runner?’ Laughing, I said, ‘No, not really, but I planned on working out when I got up this morning.’ This was before the athleisure clothing trend.” —CAMILLE, CHESTERFIELD, PARENT TO A 14- AND A 16-YEAR-OLD
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