Springfield Kids Directory

Refrigerator Notes

Happy New Year!

I love the feeling of a fresh start, although I’m not much for setting resolutions. Mostly, I’m hoping to mark off a few projects on my to-do list by being more intentional with my time.

I’ve mentioned intentionality before in this column, and I’ll readily admit my efforts have come with mixed results.

But, isn’t that what the new year is for? It’s a fresh start. Time to let go of the past and embrace what lies ahead. My goal: A cup of tea in the evening during some quiet time.

Help your kids think of one or two things they would like to improve or start or complete this year. Goalsetting is a valuable skill. Once they set the goals, help them establish realistic time lines and identify achievable steps to complete the goals. Then celebrate their successes!

This month, we have new advertisers starting the year with Kids Directory and our very popular birthday party guide. This is an issue you’ll likely hang on to for awhile.

So, let’s get the new year off to a good start by being good to yourself. You’ve got this! |

~Melinda, parent & publisher

Kids Eat FREE

The original , most comprehensive guide

in the Ozarks!

or almost free

Restaurants may modify or temporarily suspend Kids Eat Free offers and operating hours. We do our best to publish accurate information. Please call ahead to confirm offers. Thank you for supporting our local and locally owned and managed restaurants. Want to advertise your restaurant or know about a deal not listed? Email melinda@springfieldkids.com

EVERY DAY

HuHot, 2825 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-882-0300. Kids age 3 and younger eat free every day. Drink not included. Dine-in only.

Incredible Pizza Company, 2850 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-887-3030. Kids age 3 and younger eat free.

SUNDAY

Houlihan’s, 2421 N. Glenstone Ave., 417-862-7777. Kids’ meals are $2.49 and $3.49. Cannot be combined with offers or coupons.

HuHot, 2825 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-882-0300. 25 percent off for all students with school ID.

King’s Asian Chef, 1336 N. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-866-5527. Free kid’s meal with every adult combo meal or entrée purchased. Choose junior-size cashew chicken or junior sweet and sour. Maximum of three free meals. Dine-in only.

Moe’s Southwest Grill, 2212 W. Hwy 76, Branson, 417-334-3880. Kids age 9 and younger get a free kid’s meal with purchase of an adult entrée. Child must be present.

MONDAY

Amigos Mexican Restaurant, 2118 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-887-1401. All day, get one free kid’s meal (for ages 10 and younger) with purchase of an adult entrée. Bair’s All-American Sports Grill, three locations: 105 W. Sherman Way, Nixa, 417-725-3777; 3821 S. Campbell Ave., 417-368-5919, Springfield; 1644 E. Hwy 60, Republic, 417-732-5077. All day, kids eat for $2.99 with the purchase of a regular-priced entrée. Same offer available on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Bosky’s Vegan Grill, 405 W. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-507-1050. One free kids’ meal for every adult meal purchased, 3-8 p.m. Kids 12 and under. Kids’ meal is a choice of slider and fries or tenders and fries. Dine-in only.

Pasta Express, four locations: 3025 W. Republic Rd., 417-888-3048; 3250 E. Battlefield Rd., 417-890-1345; 603 S. Kimbrough Ave., 417-862-7833; 321 E. Battlefield Rd., 417-885-0030. Free kid’s meal for kids age 12 and younger with purchase of an adult entrée, 3-9 p.m. Dine-in only.

“Kids Eat Free” offers continue on page 8.

Kids Eat Free! (or almost free)

Springfield Brewing Company

305 S. Market Ave., Springfield, 417-832-8277. Kids eat free with the purchase of an adult entrée. Dine-in only.

Springfield Family Restaurant, 2222 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-883-0900. One free kids’ menu item with purchase of one adult entrée valued at $8 or more, after 4 p.m. Dine-in only. Cannot be combined with other offers.

The Roost Bar & Grill, 4216 S. Cox Rd., 417-612-9050; 2025 W. Sunshine St., 417-865-4000. Free kid’s meal with the purchase of an adult entrée, 6-10 p.m.

Village Inn, all Springfield locations. Get one kid’s meal for kids age 9 and younger with each adult meal purchased. Offer good all day. Offer also good on Tuesday.

TUESDAY

Bair’s All-American Sports Grill, three locations: 105 W. Sherman Way, Nixa, 417-725-3777; 3821 S. Campbell Ave., 417-368-5919, Springfield; 1644 E. Hwy 60, Republic, 417-732-5077. All day, kids eat for $2.99 with the purchase of a regular-priced entrée. Same offer available on Mondays and Wednesdays.

Big Whiskey’s, five locations: in Springfield, 311 Park Central, 417-862-2449; 1440 W. Republic Rd., 417-882-2249; and 1550 E. Battlefield Rd., 417-883-5999; 602 N. 25th St., Ozark, 417-485-3800; and 301 Branson Landing, Branson, 417-334-4478. One

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free kid’s meal with purchase of an adult entrée, 5-9 p.m. Coyote’s Adobe Cafe, Nixa location only, 807 N. Main St., 417-725-6803. One free kids meal for kids age 12 and younger for each adult entrée purchased, 5-8 p.m. Parents can get all-you-can-eat wings, 5-8 p.m.

HuHot, 2825 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-882-0300. After 4 p.m., one free kids’ grill meal per adult grill meal for kids ages 10 and younger. McAlister’s Deli, for dine-in only at locations in Springfield and Republic: 210 W. Sunshine, 417-831-4450; 1460 E. Primrose, 417-890-5250; 2445-A N. Kansas Expwy., 417-866-2331; 1711 W. Battlefield Rd., 417-888-0899; and 586 E. Harrison St., Republic, 417-732-4747. Purchase an adult meal and receive a 99¢ kid’s meal for a child age 12 or younger. Offer good from 5-9 p.m.

Prima’s Mexican Grill, Two locations: 3662 S. Glenstone Ave., 417-890-1212, Springfield; 1769 James River Rd., Ozark, 417-582-2776. Dine-in only, 11 a.m.-9 p.m., one free kids’ meal ($4.25 or less) for kids age 10 and younger for each lunch or dinner entrée purchased.

Ruby Tuesday’s, 2725 N. Glenstone Ave., 417-831-7829, and 3316 W. Hwy 76, Branson, 417-335-5450. After 4 p.m., get one free kid’s entrée with one adult entrée purchase.

“Kids Eat Free” offers continue on page 10.

Kids Eat Free! (or almost free)

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Village Inn, all Springfield locations. Get one kid’s meal for kids age 9 and younger with each adult meal purchased. Offer good all day. Offer also good on Tuesdays.

WEDNESDAY

Andy B’s, 1127 E. Battlefield Rd., 417-883-1234. Kids age 12 and younger get a free kids’ meal with every menu item purchase valued at $9 or more.

Bair’s All-American Sports Grill, three locations: 105 W. Sherman Way, Nixa, 417-725-3777; 3821 S. Campbell Ave., 417-368-5919, Springfield; 1644 E. Hwy 60, Republic, 417-732-5077. All day, kids eat for $2.99 with the purchase of a regular-priced entrée.

Double E Burger & Ice Cream Shoppe, 339 Kentling Ave., Highlandville, 417-587-8018. One free kid’s meal for ages 12 and younger with the purchase of one adult entrée of $5.99 or more. Dine-in only. Cannot combine with other offers or coupons. Thursdays also.

Dowd’s Catfish & BBQ Eatery, 1760 W. Elm St., Lebanon, 417-532-1777. One free kids’ meal for each adult meal purchased after 5 p.m. Does not include all-you-can-eat. Dine-in only.

Schlotsky’s, 4132 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-889-2445. Buy one regular 10” pizza and get one free on certain pizza selections. Limit 1 BOGO offer when ordering multiple pizzas.

The Catfish Café, 1210 S. Ash St., Buffalo. 417-345-1277. Dine-in only. Kids eat free off kids’ menu, 4-8 p.m. One free kid’s meal per paid adult meal.

Whole Hog Café, 224 W. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-868-0042. After 5 p.m., kids age 12 and younger get one free kid’s plate with purchase of one adult plate, 5-9 p.m. Dine-in only.

THURSDAY

Double E Burger & Ice Cream Shoppe, 339 Kentling Ave., Highlandville, 417-587-8018. One free kid’s meal for ages 12 and younger with purchase of one adult entrée ($5.99 or more). Dine-in only. Cannot combine with other offers or coupons.

FRIDAY

Ruby Tuesday’s, 2725 N. Glenstone Ave., 417-831-7829. All day, get one free kids’ entrée with one adult entrée.

SATURDAY

McAlister’s Deli, for dine-in only in Springfield and Republic: 210 W. Sunshine, 417-831-4450; 1460 E. Primrose, 417-890-5250; 2445-A N. Kansas Expwy., 417-866-2331; 1711 W. Battlefield Rd., 417-888-0899; and 586 E. Harrison St., Republic, 417-732-4747. Purchase an adult meal and receive a 99¢ kid’s meal for a child age 12 or younger. Offer good all day.

Rosie Jo’s Café, 1711 S. 15th St., Ozark, 417-581-6047. Get one free kid’s meal with purchase of an adult entrée, 4-8 p.m. Only for children ages 10 and younger.

Birthday Party Guide

Is your child celebrating a birthday soon? We’ve got great ideas and contact information for you to create a memorable party for your child. And, there’s something for every child—from animal themes to indoor and outdoor play. Remember to tell these fine businesses that you found them in Kids Directory!

Dickerson Park Zoo

1401 W. Norton Rd. • Springfield 417-833-1570 • dickersonparkzoo.org

For a birthday party that combines adventure and animals, celebrate at Dickerson Park Zoo. Party supplies provided include plates, cups, utensils, napkins, and tablecloths. Guests will enjoy an educational animal program, special animal guests, and craft time. Parties are for children ages 3-10 and limited to 10 children.

Party dates book quickly; please reserve well in advance. Discounted zoo admission is available for party guests. Turn a child’s special day into an extraordinary experience.

The party continues on page 14.

“I found it in Kids Directory!”

Party Guide

Haute Tot Upscale Kids Resale

Jump Mania

3202 W. Republic Rd. • Springfield 417-881-5867 • jumpmaniaspringfield.com

Jump Mania is great fun for kids 12 and younger. Birthday party packages include jump time, two hours in the private party room, pizza, cupcakes, drinks, and paper goods. Weekend and weekday parties are available, and weekday parties are discounted. Want exclusive party access or a private party with Jump Mania all to yourselves? They do that, too. It’s easy to check party time availability online. Or, rent an inflatable for a party at your location. Call for rental details. See ad on page 19.

Magical Stories and More

417-501-9052 • magicalstoriesandmore.com

Bring in an entertainment and event expert to make your child’s birthday an epic event. Magical Stories themed shows include magic, story telling, and fantasy to spark kids’ imaginations. Or, choose other options like a princess party, balloon twisting, or a bubble party. See ad on page 17.

Once Upon A Child

1421 S. Glenstone Ave. • Springfield • 417-886-1853 onceuponachild.com/locations/springfield-mo

Needing to stay on budget for your next party? Whether it’s a party dress or gifts, consider Once Upon A Child’s gently used clothing, toys, and baby gear. They make shopping a breeze and budget-friendly. See ad on page 3.

Ozark Parks & Recreation @ The OC

1530 W. Jackson St. • Ozark • 417-581-7002 x2009 ozarkmissouri.com/224/parties

“Your child’s birthday comes around once a year. This year, let The OC help you create a celebration to remember. The OC hosts two-hour pool parties in a party room in the aquatics area for up to 20 kids. Playtime includes the indoor pool, slides, and lazy river. Or challenge your birthday kid and guests to a two-hour Inflatable Obstacle Course Party. Got a summer birthday? Consider a party at the Grubaugh Municipal Outdoor Pool. Find complete party package details online. See ad on page 13. The party continues on page 16.

Birthday Party Guide

Continued from page 15.

Ozarks Regional YMCA

orymca.org

Book your birthday celebration with your local Ozarks Regional YMCA center. The Y’s trained staff will ensure you have a great time in a safe and exciting environment. Party packages and details vary by location. Visit the Y’s website and select your preferred center to see what they have to offer. Pat Jones Y in Springfield offers party options with a bounce house or in the pool, NERF play, and a combination of activities. Discounts for Y member families. See ad on page 19.

Sac River Stables

To horse around on your next birthday, trot on over to Sac River Stables. Parties include a climate-controlled party room along with horses, tack, helmets and other equipment needed for riding in an indoor riding arena. All parties are supervised by CHA-certified instructors at this CHA-accredited facility, using well-trained horses. See ad on page 12.

Springfield-Greene County Park Board

The Park Board offers a wide variety of themed party packages and locations: skateboard at the Skate Park, golf at Betty Allison Junior Golf Course at Oscar Blom, swim indoors at Doling and Chesterfield Family Centers, ice skate or play hockey at Jordan Valley Ice Park, have farm-themed fun a Rutledge-Wilson Farm Park, meet animals at Dickerson Park Zoo, pet and ride horses at Valley Water Mill Equestrian Center, and admire the view at Lake Springfield Boathouse. Or build your own party at Chesterfield, Dan Kinney or Doling Family Centers or other locations. All party packages include access to a private room and may be customized for all ages. See ad on page 5.

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Birthday Party Guide

Continued from page 17.

Springfield Little Theatre

Parties are at The Judy • 237 S. Florence Ave. • Springfield springfieldlittletheatre.org

SLT birthdays are fun and easy with decorations, cake and punch, prizes, and gift bags provided. A party host prepares games and activities, and a photographer captures memories of your special day. Children play theatre games and have a surprise visit from a special character. Show-themed parties are offered during the runs of familyfriendly performances at The Landers Theatre and SLT Education Facility or consult with the creative staff to choose a custom party theme. See ad on page 11.

Where the Wild Things Play

5557 N. 21st St. • Ozark • 417-470-1417 • wildthingsozark.com

Make unforgettable memories for your Wild Thing. The basic party package includes admission for your birthday child and 10 child guests, access to the party room for two hours, and, of course, lots of play. Plus, your birthday child receives a free one-month membership and a “Wild Thing” T-shirt. Upgrade to a Deluxe Party for the theme décor, or book a private party and have full access to the play space for just your guests. Find all the details on the website party page. See ad on page 17.

Wonders of Wildlife

500 W. Sunshine St. • Springfield 888-222-6060 • wondersofwildlife.org

Give the gift of wonder with a birthday party at Wonders of Wildlife. During your child’s party, guests can get up-close and personal with live animal encounters and engaging themed activities. Our party packages offer a hassle-free and zero-clean-up experience for a family-friendly birthday adventure. Birthday EdVentures are hosted in the John A. and Genny Morris Conservation Center next to the aquarium. To book a birthday party, visit wondersofwildlife.org/ birthday-parties. Book early; dates fill quickly. See ad on page 7.

January 2023

Monday, Jan. 9-Sunday, Jan. 15

CALENDAR

Event details sometimes change after Kids Directory goes to print. While we strive to provide accurate information, we encourage you to call ahead or confirm events with the host. You’ll find even more events on our website, springfieldkids. com.

Weekdays

Little Splashers at Chesterfield and Doling indoor pools, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Designated time for children ages 5 and younger with an adult in the water. Chesterfield Family Center, 2511 W. Republic Rd., Springfield; Doling Family Center, 301 E. Talmage St., Springfield parkboard.org See ad on page 3.

Mondays and Wednesdays

Toddler Time at Imaginasium, 9 a.m. For ages 3 years and younger. Imaginasium, 3444 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield 417-368-2908 or imaginasium417.com See ad on page 19. Monday, Jan. 2, Tuesday, Jan. 3 & Monday, Jan. 16 School’s Out: Play in a Day Workshop, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. For ages 5-12. Springfield Little Theatre’s The Judy education building, 237 S. Florence Ave., Springfield 417-413-2287 or springfieldlittletheatre.org See ad on page 11.

Tiny Art Show at The Library Center. Show off your art skills. Register for a kit by calling 417-616-0526, then pick up the kit, a list of prompts, and instructions to submit the project by Feb. 12 The Library Center, 4653 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield thelibrary.org See ad on page 11.

Tuesday, Jan. 10 Siblings and Parents Class at CoxHealth, 6-7 p.m. Interactive session to prepare children ages 3-8 for the arrival of a new sibling. Cost: $20/family. Registration is required. The Women’s Center conference room, 1000 E. Primrose St., Ste. 130, Springfield 417-269-4664 or coxhealth.com

Saturday, Jan. 14

“The Great Lover” performed by Springfield Symphony Orchestra, 7:30 p.m. Tickets at Hammons Hall box office, 417-836-7678 or online at mpv.tickets.com. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts, 525 S. Hammons Pkwy., Springfield Symphony office, 417-864-6683 or springfieldmosymphony.org See ad on page 22.

Sunday, Jan. 15 “Work on the Wild Side” at Dickerson Park Zoo, 1-4 p.m. For children in grades 2-6 interested in a wildlife career. Cost: $50/FOZ member and $60/non-member. Registration is required. Dickerson Park Zoo Education Building, 1103 W. Smith St., Springfield 417-833-1570 or dickersonparkzoo.org

Monday, Jan. 16 Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

Monday, Jan. 16 School Day Out at Discovery Center, 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Cost: $30/member and $35/non-member. Discovery Center, 438 E. St. Louis St., Springfield 417-862-9910 or discoverycenter.org

Monday, Jan. 16 “Schools Out Day: Birdin’ Around” at Wonders of Wildlife, 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Learn about birds from around the world. Crafts, games, and a tour of Wonders of Wildlife. Cost: $60; after-care available until 5:30 p.m. for an additional cost. Registration deadline is Jan. 9. Morris Conservation Center, 600 W. Sunshine St., Springfield 417-225-1162 or wondersofwildlife.org See ad on page 7.

Wednesday, Jan. 18

It’s Freezin’ Season at RutledgeWilson Farm Park, 9-11 a.m. Students in grades 1-5 will learn the science of freezing and conduct experiments. This is an adult/child program (one adult per child must be present). Register by Jan. 16. Cost: $15/person. RutledgeWilson Farm Park, 3825 W. Farm Rd. 146, Springfield 417-837-5949 or parkboard.org See ad on page 3.

Friday, Jan. 20

Animal Encounter at The Jungle Gym, 10:15-10:45 a.m. Meet animal ambassadors from Dickerson Park Zoo. This is a first-come, first-served class. Jungle Gym, 3322 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield 417-319-5595 or thejunglegym.org

Saturday-Sunday, Jan. 21-22 Eagle Days at Lake Springfield. Indoor programs at Springfield Conservation Nature Center hourly, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday and 12:30-3:30 p.m. Sunday.

Volunteers will have spotting scopes for outdoor viewing at the Lake Springfield Boathouse during event hours. Springfield Conservation Nature Center, 4601 S. Nature Center Way, Springfield 417-888-4237

Tuesday, Jan. 24

Imagination Playground at Strafford Branch Library, 9:30 a.m.-6 p.m. For all ages. Create with a set of giant foam blocks. Strafford Branch Library, 101 MO-125, Strafford thelibrary.org See ad on page 11.

Friday, Jan. 27-Sunday, Feb. 12 “Chitty Chitty, Bang Bang,” at Springfield Little Theatre (rated G). Performance dates, times, and ticket information online. Landers Theatre, 311 E. Walnut St., Springfield 417-869-1334 or springfieldlittletheatre.org See ad on page 11.

Saturday, Jan. 28

Father Daughter Dance at The OC, 7-9 p.m. Enjoy an evening of fun competitions, refreshments, prizes, and dancing. Registration is requested. Ozark Community Center (The OC), 1530 W. Jackson St., Ozark 417-581-7002 ext. 2005 or ozarkmissouri.com See ad on page 13.

Tuesday, Jan. 31

PALS: Penguin Parade at Wonders of Wildlife, 10-11:30 a.m. For children ages 3-5 with a parent. Waddle over for hands-on learning the coolest species. Register by Jan. 24. John A. and Genny Morris Conservation Center, 600 W. Sunshine St., Springfield 417-225-1162 or wondersofwildlife.org See ad on page 7.