KC Parent Magazine January 2018 by KC Parent Magazine

FREE | January 2018 | KCParent.com | Since 1985

tips

to speed up the dawdler in your home importance of

pla time y for preschoolers kcâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s #1 winter

fun guide beat the blahs

snowflake crafts yummy soup recipes

31 DAYS OF FUN

ARE YOU

FLuent FLu? IN

Headaches, body aches and a lack of energy – could it be the flu? The flu is the opposite of fun. But knowledge is power. And when it comes to the flu, knowledge has the power to keep you healthy. From flu prevention to symptoms and treatment, go to hcamidwest.com/flu to: • Test your flu knowledge and get answers from our ER experts • Find an ER near you and see average wait times • Check-in online for CareNow Urgent Care • Find a doctor and schedule an appointment online

BELTON REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER CENTERPOINT MEDICAL CENTER LAFAYETTE REGIONAL HEALTH CENTER LEE’S SUMMIT MEDICAL CENTER MENORAH MEDICAL CENTER OVERLAND PARK REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER RESEARCH MEDICAL CENTER 18086 A 2017

kcparent.com january 2018

Foster parents needed! Help children who have experienced abuse, neglect or other family challenges Do I qualify to be a foster parent? All kinds of people can qualify to foster a child. Whether you are single or married, own or rent your home, have children already or don’t, work full-time or stay home, you may be eligible.

How will I handle saying goodbye to the child if and when it’s safe for them to go home? This is no doubt difficult, but any sadness is outweighed by the safety and love you will give to a child during a time of crisis. Plus, you’re encouraged to maintain life-long connections with the child and family. Thousands of children in the Kansas City area are in need of caring foster families. If not you, then who?

(888) 655-5500 | www.kvckansas.org

kcparent.com january 2018

The perfect arrival. The perfect place. The new Birth Place

Enhanced capabilities. More amenities. The new Birth Place blends the care you’ve grown to trust with an impressive facility you’ll immediately love. It’s a combination that makes the Birth Place the perfect place for you and your little one.

Come see our new addition. • Secure webcam-enabled nurseries • Advanced, Level II Neonatal ICU where you can stay overnight with your baby in the same room • 4-story obstetrics wing featuring luxury suites with queen-size beds, big enough to share

Meet the doctors who deliver at Olathe Medical Center at olathehealth.org/birthplace

31 DAYS OF

winter fun!

JANUARY

2018

IN EVERY ISSUE 10 Media Mix 12 Teacher Talk

WINTER FUN GUIDE, PG. 44

13 Word from Dad 14 News You Can Use 45 Craft Corner

FEATURES

SPECIAL SECTIONS 16 Party Guide 44 Winter Fun Guide 54 Calendar of Events

Party Guide

Happy Family

Snowflake Crafts

Find the perfect spot for your child’s next party

Learn the secrets of happy families

Create crafts when it’s too cold to go outside

Our cover features Sydney from Leawood. Cover and select interior photos by KiaBondurant.com. FREE | January 2018 | KCParent.com | Since 1985

ON THE COVER Speed Up a Dawdler

Playtime for Preschoolers

Snowflake Crafts

Soup Recipes

Beat the Winter Blahs

31 Days of Fun

tips

to speed up the dawdler in your home importance of

pla ytime for preschoolers kc’s #1 winter

fun guide beat the blahs snowflake crafts yummy soup recipes

31 DAYS OF FUN

kcparent.com january 2018

2017 WINNER

family faves

EDITOR’SLETTER JANUARY 2018

kansas city

guide y t r pa your guide to throwing an unforgettable party in kc!

Stay warm, Kansas City!

Margaret Sarver, Editor

Publisher Michael Gimotty Michael@KCParent.com Associate Publisher Darrell Dean Darrell@KCParent.com Editor Margaret Sarver Margaret@KCParent.com Art Director Kim Tappan Tappan Design Kim@KCParent.com Advertising Sales Darrell Dean Advertising@KCParent.com Digital Media Manager Kristina Light Kristina@KCParent.com Event Calendar Susan Lynn Calendar@KCParent.com Copy Editor Susan Crainshaw Susan@KCParent.com Distribution To be added to our distribution list, e-mail Distribution@KCParent.com

LOCAL CONTENT

Local Contributing Writers Bill Bartlett (Belton), Allison Gibeson (Lee’s Summit), Lauren Greenlee (Olathe), Christa Melnyk Hines (Olathe), Karen Johnson (Olathe), Megan Kapple (Kansas City), Gina Klein (Liberty), Kristina Light (Kansas City), Sarah Lyons (Olathe), Erin McIntosh (Shawnee), Kerrie McLoughlin (Peculiar), Angela Rosheim (Liberty)

Mailing Address 11936 W. 119th #335, Overland Park, KS 66213 913.782.3238 phone • 913.681.5139 fax OUR PRODUCTS FREE | January 2018 | KCParent.com | Since 1985

kansas city’s #1 travel guide since 2010

baby&

fall/winter 2017-18

kcgoingplaces.com

maternity

JANUARY- MARCH 2018 | KCPARENT.COM

common feelings of

FINDING KC’S

tips

FOODIE CULTURE

to speed up the dawdler in your home

BOOST BABY’S

VIBRANT, ECLECTIC

BRAIN POWER

CITY DISTRICTS importance of

pla ytime for preschoolers

BIGGER & BETTER:

NICU

PARENTS

pregnancy

WHAT’S NEW IN KC potty train

LIKE A PRO

kc’s #1 winter

POWER FOODS

fun guide beat the blahs

snowflake crafts yummy soup recipes

500+ ADVENTURES AROUND KANSAS CITY

31 DAYS OF FUN

.com

Visit the Virtual Party Guide at KCParent.com

appy New Year! I trust the holidays were nice and, if you’re like me, you’re looking forward to some quieter days ahead. We all could benefit from some downtime in the Sarver home! As people do each January, we all think about resolutions, fresh starts, things in which we’d like to improve, etc. And if you are like me, by February most have been forgotten. Often resolutions revolve around our health, and those are good ones to make—and keep! Women’s health is an important topic and maintaining it varies greatly depending upon your age. Olathe mom Lauren Greenlee has put together a great roundup of women’s health topics, decade by decade. Take a look at what you might be facing and if you haven’t been in for a checkup in a while, get one scheduled today! Happy. Happiness. Joy. What do those words conjure up in your mind? I think for most, it’s what we want for our families and for ourselves. We take a look at happiness in this issue, from what makes a happy family to what you, the readers, told us are your go-to “get happy” songs. Check it all out on pgs. 28-33. Skating through this winter with no snow would make me happy, but I know some of you love snow. We’ve got your guide to winter fun starting on pg. 44. Planning a party this month? If not this month, I know you will sometime in the next 12 months! Check out our party guide on pgs. 16-23 for great locations in KC to host your next bash. And be sure to visit the virtual party guide at KCParent.com for even more ideas, photos, videos and much more!

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Kansas City Parent Magazine is published 12 times a year by Family Media Group. It is distributed free of charge throughout the Kansas City area. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect KC Parent’s opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written permission. Kansas City Parent Magazine does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. All photography and letters sent to KC Parent will be treated unconditionally assigned for publication and copyright purposes and are subject to unrestricted right to edit and comment editorially. KC Parent often includes websites that may be helpful to our readers. We verify each site prior to publication. However, content changes frequently. We encourage you to use caution and discretion when visiting a website.

Postmaster, please send changes to KC Parent, 8691 W. 96th St, Ste 1B, Overland Park, KS 66212.

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KCPARENT.COM

KCParent.com Even More Local Parenting Information, Articles, Events and Surprises

SEARCH KCPARENT.COM FOR MORE AFFORDABLE WINTER FUN IDEAS: 1. Best of January 2. Cabin Fever Busters 3. Chinese New Year

YEAR OF THE DOG

4. Free & Cheap Indoor Fun 5. Hot Cocoa Recipes 6. Family Game Night Ideas

SPOTLIGHT WINTER FUN

Will there be lots of snow? Or none at all? Whether Kansas City is a winter wonderland or not this January, KCParent.com has you covered for winter fun ideas from A to Z!

Expecting?

7. Summer Fun in Winter 8. Best Sled Hills

HOSPITAL LABOR & DELIVERY GUIDE Check out the Virtual Hospital Labor & Delivery Guide at KCParent.com to search hospitals by location, NICU level, classes and more.

Use KC Parentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Virtual Hospital Labor & Delivery Guide to choose

the best medical care for mother and baby.

9. KC Going Places Guide 10. Coupons and Giveaways

4 MORE WAYS TO STAY CONNECTED

Like us on Facebook facebook.com/KansasCityParent Repin us on Pinterest // Follow us on Twitter @KCParent // Subscribe to our FREE e-newsletter at KCParent.com

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MEDIAMIX

be yourself and be happy! new titles offer stories of empowerment By McGeath Freeman

Princess Truly in I Am Truly

Robinson By Peter Sís

Who Killed Darius Drake?

By Kelly Greenawalt

Best for: Ages 4-8

By Rodman Philbrick Best for: Ages 8-12

Illustrated by Amariah Rauscher Best for: Ages 4-8 Most children have big dreams, which is great! Truly is a young AfricanAmerican girl with dreams and drive. She has no doubt about her abilities. “I am smart, I am studious, I am a high achiever,” she says. “I am confident, I am courageous, I am a volunteer.” Truly sets no boundaries for herself. Greenawalt and Rauscher combine energetic illustrations with an uberpositive mantra to pump up daughters everywhere. Parents will enjoy the positive vibes they get from reading this picture book as well. Truly fans will flock to this edition. But you don’t need to be a fan to get the message. This is a good addition to any classroom.

What’s good: Strong message of empowerment.

What’s bad: Empowerment mantras are common on bookstore shelves.

Peter Sís looks at his own childhood in Robinson and through his tale helps children navigate tricky moments of childhood embarrassment and friendship. In Robinson, Peter and his friends see a sign for a costume party and agree to go as pirates. His mother has another idea. Because Peter and his friends like adventure so much, his mother convinces Peter to go to the party as his favorite character from a book, Robinson Crusoe. Unfortunately, Peter’s friends have not read Robinson Crusoe and laugh at him. The young protagonist goes home and crawls into bed to escape his embarrassment. While he sleeps, Peter travels to Robinson Crusoe’s island and finds adventure, excitement and himself. At the end of this tale, Peter tells his friends all about Robinson Crusoe, and they all find a new adventure.

What’s good: Fantastic and engaging illustrations.

What’s bad: A little too subtle for young readers.

kcparent.com january 2018

Need a good mystery-adventure to get you through the cold winter months? Look no further than Philbrick’s Who Killed Darius Drake? It begins with a bloodstained letter and has everything a good mystery should have: a spooky old house, resourceful heroes, quirky characters and a love story. The mystery is solid and will keep readers working through the clues. If your readers are not quite ready for Sherlock Holmes but need something different than the Hardy Boys, this book is a satisfactory solution.

What’s good: Fast-paced, wellstructured mystery. What bad: Some readers likely will surmise who the bad guy is relatively quickly.

Here for Your Family’s Health In Every Season. Make an online reservation today at CentraCareKC.com. • Walk in or make an online reservation 7 days a week • On-site X-rays and prescriptions • Shawnee Mission Health providers Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m.-8 p.m. | Sat. & Sun., 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

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TEACHERTALK

five reasons to teach kids to code

echnology literacy is a necessary skill for our 21st century learners. They must be able to work independently and with others to utilize technology to their advantage, to follow their passions and meet their future needs. Coding is one essential skill all young learners should, at the very least, be exposed to.

< Reason #1 > Coding encourages problem-solving and critical thinking. Teaching children to think deeply, not just remember facts, is imperative. Coding provides opportunities for multiple iterations and use of reasoning skills and computational thinking, breaking big problems into a series of smaller steps to solve. If we can teach children a growth mindset (the understanding that talents can be developed and are not innate gifts), then they will continue to work hard when facing difficult situations.

< Reason #2 >

< Reason #3 >

< Reason #5 >

Coding encourages children to learn and practice essential life skills.

Coding prepares children for the jobs of the future.

Many life skills are practiced and learned while coding. Children will need to persevere when facing challenging problems. Hard work eventually pays off and, when learned early, will benefit children. Teamwork is important, and children will naturally gravitate toward others to collaborate when having trouble. Children show flexibility by knowing when to give up on an idea that is not working. Learning to fail forward when something doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t work the way it should is also important for our students. According to Code Ninjas, learning to code teaches kids how to think logically, ask questions and problem-solveâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;skills that will help them on any path they take in life. Kids also learn that they can be more than passive consumers of technology, but can actually understand how it works and help create it.

According to a White House initiative called US2020, 1.2 million new jobs in science, technology, engineering and math will emerge by 2018, and not enough qualified applicants will exist to fill them. Even if a child is not interested in a technology field, basic computer literacy will be necessary for many jobs.

Coding is fun and stimulates creativity (and promotes producers, rather than just consumers, of information).

CodeNinjas.com

Daisy the Dinosaur

kcparent.com january 2018

< Reason #4 > Coding is empowering and builds confidence. When working through coding challenges, a child feels the thrill of conquering what was stumping him! Finding a bug through trial and error is empowering to students and builds their confidence in their abilities to solve any problem they may have. Coding Resources n Code.org GirlsWhoCode.com ipad Coding Apps n n ScratchJr Kodable

When young children first code, they create games, animations and stories that allow their natural creativity and imagination to shine through. By incorporating art, design and music into coding, many children find their passions addressed. Early coding often serves as the first time kids are able to express their creativity in a different way! n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n

Angela Rosheim is a library media specialist in the Liberty Public Schools district and the mother of three.

Hopscotch

Scratch.MIT.org n

Box Island

WORDFROMDAD

“d

independent contractors

ad, I need some money,” Ian said to me one winter evening. “No, you need a job. Earn your own money.” “But I’m too young. Nobody will hire me.” I glanced through the window at the falling snow. “Not a problem. Nature has provided.” The next morning after breakfast, we put on our heavy clothes and tramped from house to house. But no one wanted to pay to have his driveway cleared. Hours later, we gave up and headed home. We stopped in front of our house. “Hey, guys, let’s shovel our own driveway. We can show Mom how good we are.” I set my shovel to the pavement and pushed. James and Ian followed my example and, for a while, we made good progress. James stopped and held his shovel. “Dad, I have to go to the bathroom.” “Okay, but hurry back.” Shortly after James disappeared, Ian spoke. “Dad, I’m thirsty.” “All right. Don’t be too long.” I wiped my brow when I finished and stepped inside, but I wasn’t prepared for what greeted me. Both boys held steaming mugs of hot chocolate while they watched TV. “Sandi, what’s this? They were supposed to help finish.” “Both told me you said they could.” My back and arms ached. “Those little skunks! They said they’d return.” “Did the boys say it or did you?” I groaned. Once again, their disability smacked me, right in the face. I’d assumed they’d understood my meaning, but hadn’t made sure. Sandi glanced at our sons. “Don’t forget to pay them. They did some work, too.” My shoulders slumped and Sandi wrapped her arms around me. “Come and sit in the kitchen,” she said. “I saved some cocoa for you, just the way you like it, and I’ll give you a back rub.” William R. Bartlett lives in Belton with his family.

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NYCU

NEWS YOU CAN USE January 2018

What does the latest research say about economic factors on parenting strategy, the effect of screen time on sleep patterns and infectious diseases in organized sports? Take a look:

ECONOMIC FACTORS ON PARENTING STRATEGY

SCREEN TIME AND SLEEP DISRUPTION

INFECTIOUS DISEASES AND ORGANIZED SPORTS

A new study by Yale University finds that parenting styles may be influenced by economic factors. “All parents want their children to succeed, and we argue that the economic environment influences their methods of childrearing,” says Yale economist Fabrizio Zilibotti. “For instance, greater occupational mobility and lower inequality today makes an authoritarian approach less effective than generations ago. It’s not that parents spare the rod because they are more concerned about their children’s wellbeing now than they were 100 years ago. Rather, parenting strategies adapted to the modern economy.” The study found that as economic inequality increased in the United States, so did “helicopter parenting,” a commonly used form of parenting that involves intense monitoring of children, intended to “strengthen children’s drive for achievement and prevent them from risky behaviors.” In contrast, when economic inequality is low, parents tend to be more permissive, because they are better able to recognize the benefits in letting their children learn from their experiences.

That screen time before bed causes sleep disruption in children and teens is well known, but a new article published by the University of Colorado Boulder explains why this is true. Of more than five dozen studies looking at youths ages 5 to 17 from around the world, 90 percent have found that more screen time is associated with delayed bedtimes, fewer hours of sleep and poorer sleep quality, the authors report. Light is an important factor. Because young eyes are not fully developed, they are more sensitive to the light put off by electronics than adults are. The psychological stimulation of interacting with digital electronics is another factor, whether it’s in the form of video games, television or texting with friends. More than 75 percent of children have screens in their bedrooms and 60 percent interact with them in the hour before bedtime. A recent report from Commonsense Media shows mobile media device use has tripled among young children since 2011, with kids under 8 using them 48 minutes per day, and many parents incorporating digital media into the bedtime routine.

Many families consider organized sports a healthy outlet for their children to get physical exercise and socialization during cold winter months. But this time of year is also the worst time for the spread of infectious diseases through sports equipment, mats and locker rooms. Fall and winter sports like football, wrestling and basketball tend to experience the most outbreaks. The American Academy of Pediatrics recently published new guidelines for keeping young players healthy during their sports seasons. “Besides showering and washing hands, athletes should be discouraged from sharing their water bottles, towels, mouth guards and other personal items,” says H. Dele Davis, MD, lead author of the report and member of the AAP Committee on Infectious Diseases. The AAP report also suggests that students should be upto-date on their vaccinations.

kcparent.com january 2018

Erin McIntosh is a mom of four children, 15, 12, 10 and 6. She works at the Kansas City Art Institute and is also a freelance writer and photographer. She is currently working on her first book, a memoir about single parenting.

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Advanced Laser Tag

KC Parent’s

party guide

• fresh ideas • terrific themes • great venues

kcparent2016-2.pdf

8/10/16

3:58 PM

Have your next party at Kansas City’s original 2-story arena! In addition to laser tag, we have a 2000 sq. ft. high-tech video arcade with the latest, family-friendly video games. Packages available for hasslefree birthday parties, corporate team building & leadership training, church group lock-ins and private corporate events. The meeting area seats 150 people. Fun for ages 7 to 77! See display ad on pg. 23. www.TagMe.net

Candid KC Photobooth Candid KC Photobooth will bring the excitement and everlasting memories to your wedding, mitzvah, party, school dance, corporate event, fundraiser or marketing campaign. Our booths are designed for fun, elegance and flexibility. Whether you want a photo booth for small, intimate occasions or one for grand celebrations, Candid KC Photobooth offers a variety of rental packages that would fit your needs and budget perfectly. See display ad on pg. 22. www.CandidKCPhotobooth.com

Battling birthday party blues? Break the routine! Invite your partygoers to bounce off the walls at Urban Air—a golden play place with over 30,000+ square feet of endless entertainment options that let you customize the perfect event. Keep it simple with a trampoline party or take it to the next level

with the warrior course and/or our indoor playground. Too

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Ceramic Café Celebrate your child’s birthday at Ceramic Café. All parties are scheduled for oneand-a-half hours, giving you time to open presents and serve cake and ice cream. We have three different packages for kids parties, and another for mixed-age group celebrations. Call 913.383.0222 or visit www.CeramicCafeKC.com for more details. See display ad on pg. 22.

Elite Gymnastics & Aquatics Let us help you plan a party to remember! We have something for everyone. Choose from a tree house gym party, inflatable and zip-line or indoor pool party. Our parties will keep guests laughing, playing and wanting more. The party leaders will make sure your party is a hit. Parties start at $185 for 10 children. Bring in your own food and decoration and let us handle the rest. See display ad on pg. 23. www.EliteGymSwim.com

Gymboree Choose your child’s favorite theme and we’ll create a private, personalized party experience filled with kid-friendly activities

guaranteed to be 100% fun with zero clean up! We specialize in 1st birthday parties all the way to 5th birthday parties. Gymboree Play & Music parties are available to members and non-members. Call to find out more details. 913.262.3339 (Leawood), 816.505.3344 (Zona Rosa). See display ad on pg. 22. www.GymboreeClasses.com

Jump City Jump City’s parties are full of bouncing, sliding, and jumping fun for kids 12 & under. With wall-to- wall inflatables, a variety of arcade games, full concession options and private party rooms, you can sit back, relax and enjoy the party while we do all the setup and cleanup. See display ad on pg. 19. www.JumpCityKC.com

Kansas City Zoo Let the Kansas City Zoo host your child’s next birthday party. We guarantee a wild time for every guest! Our birthday party packages are for children 1-10 years of age. All packages include Zoo admission, a private space with your Education Party Host, cupcakes, and much more! Add-on

options include face painters, themed decorations, animal encounters and so much more! Visit our website to check out these exciting options at www.KansasCityZoo.org. See display ad on pg. 21.

KC Copters Imagine a helicopter ride for your child’s next birthday party from Johnny Rowlands KC Copters! Have your party at KC Copters hangar at Johnson County Executive Airport, or we’ll bring the helicopter to you! Hangar party guests each receive time on the controls of our flight simulator, with the option to upgrade for a real helicopter ride. Or, location permitting, we’ll fly in and give rides right on your site! You can add on photos, videos, and Certificates of Flight! See display ad on pg. 21. www.KCCopters.com

Movies2U Roll out the red carpet and celebrate that special occasion with a movie! Round up the kids to watch their favorite movie on one of our larger than life inflatable screens. Throw Continued on page 22

The Kids Will Have A Ball, And So Will You!

Get ready to be surprised by our unique combination of food and fun for the entire family.

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PARTYGUIDE

party awesome!

Here are some simple ways to celebrate the birthday boy or girl in your life.

birthday wake-up The giddy excitement a child has on his birthday morning usually can be met only by the excitement of waking up on Christmas Day. Becoming one year older is a big deal in the eyes of a child! Let him know it’s a day of rejoicing for the whole family by decorating his bedroom doorway with streamers and balloons the night before (make sure to encase the balloons in plastic so they fall on him when he opens the door!). He’ll be in for a treat walking out of his room first thing in the morning! Earlier in the week, gather the family together to write words of encouragement on sticky notes for the birthday child, such as “You tell the best jokes!” or “You are a fabulous big sister!” Disperse the notes throughout the house in places the birthday child will discover them while performing daily tasks like brushing teeth or cleaning the bedroom.

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birthday royalty Let your birthday boy or girl feel like a king or queen for the day. Break out the fine china, make a paper crown and decorate the birthday child’s chair at the kitchen table. Divvy up the child’s daily chores among the family and offer to do them as a birthday gift. Provide a photo shoot for your child, with her favorite items as props. Create a delicious smoothie or punch together and name it after the birthday child. And if your child has school on her birthday, have flowers or balloons delivered to her and wrap every individual item in her lunch box (from the sandwich down to the juice box!) in festive birthday gift wrap.

birthday cuisine Let the birthday child choose the menu for a celebratory dinner. It could mean hitting a favorite restaurant or simply whipping up the meal of choice at home. Just keep an open mind as to

what the courses may include. As Olathe mom Dixie Robertson recently found out, it may make for some unusual combinations. “Our daughter who is turning 8 made the following request: asparagus soup, broccoli, radishes, lima beans and mashed potatoes,” she says. “I’m not sure her siblings will be thrilled, but at least there will be cake afterward!”

birthday memory recap One of my favorite baby shower presents I received was a keepsake box with custom stationery and the simple instruction to write a letter to my child every year on his birthday until he was 21. I’ve since done this with all my boys, chronicling how much they’ve grown (including their clothing and shoe size, as well as how tall they are), how they’ve matured (denoting marks of character I’ve noticed in them throughout the year), as well as my hopes and prayers for them in the coming year. This simple

measure can be done with the intention of reserving the letters to give later in life, but they also make precious gifts to read aloud to your children only a few years down the line.

birthday blessings Perhaps the simplest measure has the most impact on a child. As a family, take a moment around the dinner table to share briefly what your favorite thing is about the birthday boy or girl, as well as how the child blesses the family. Be specific! “I love how you are so quick to help me clean around the house” or “You grace our home with beautiful music every time you practice the piano.” These are detailed ways you show what a valuable role the birthday child plays within family life. Lauren Greenlee has executed approximately 17 birthday parties in her parenting career. She writes from her Olathe home.

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PARTYGUIDE

EIGHT STEPS to hosting the perfect party

o your child has a birthday coming up and you’re wondering how to play his party. As you think of the elaborate parties he’s been to—one where Batman and Superman showed up and another where the roller skating rink was rented out—you’re feeling some pressure. How can you compete? Well Moms and Dads, you don’t have to. You can host a fun and memorable party for your child without breaking the bank or making your head spin. Here are few simple tips.

SETUP & PLANNING

Organize stations so the kids all have a choice of activity. Have one or two craft areas and one or two game areas set up. Young children have very short attention spans, so they may jump from station to station. Also, don’t feel obligated to invite 30 kids. My kids have had wonderful parties with friends at our house. The fewer kids, the more space to play! And if you don’t want to serve a meal and would rather just do cake, host the event between lunch and dinner—like 2:00 to 4:00—so parents know their child likely will not eat a meal at the party. This strategy saves you some money and the extra headache of meal planning.

STATION IDEAS

Face painting (hire a teenage neighbor to do it for $20), tattoos, scavenger hunts, piñatas and Twister are still popular after all these years. Another great idea is to create a photo booth area with simple props like funny glasses, mustaches, hats and boas. Then send cute pictures to kids’ parents after the party! Or just blast some music and have a dance party! For the craft, choose something seasonal for easy fun. My kids have winter birthdays so we’ve decorated pinecones (which we found in our yard!) and made ornaments in years past.

THE CAKE

Unless you’re a natural in the kitchen (I am NOT!), don’t feel pressured to bake your own elaborate cake. Kids LOVE cupcakes and cookies. They are easier to make (or

kcparent.com january 2018

even buy) and one of your stations can be a “decorate your own cupcake or cookie” table. Set out sprinkles, M&Ms and other candy toppings. You even can let guests frost their own if you want.

FOOD

Continuing with the theme of “make your own,” let party-goers make their own snacks. Makeyour-own pizzas or make-your-own sundaes are always a hit. If kids are making their own pizzas, consider giving each an English muffin to put toppings on and pop them into the oven for 10 minutes. Remember to put out a few extra munchies for any parents who are staying, and avoid common allergy triggers like peanut butter or nuts. If you know a guest has an allergy, check to see what foods are safe to serve.

DECORATIONS

Again, there is no need to go crazy decorating. Kids LOVE balloons. Blow up 20 balloons and throw them all over the house. You can buy matching napkins and plates, but we all know the kids don’t usually notice that kind of stuff—grown-ups do. If you do want to decorate, hit your local dollar store for good finds. Or check second-hand swap shops. A lot of families will sell their entire party set after their event is over for a good price, and you’ll be able to get a table cloth, a banner and unused plates and napkins for a steal. If you are a Pinterest fan, however, and you DO love decorating, you’ll find endless ideas out there for homemade theme party decor.

GOODIE BAGS

Another obligation parents feel is the dreaded goodie bag. Rather than fill 12 bags with cheap plastic toys that inevitably will get lost or broken five minutes after the kids get home, how about planning a craft kids can take home instead? With a few simple materials like tissue paper, glue and plastic squares, kids can make suncatchers. Or you can buy some small canvases and let them paint their own masterpieces. Other ideas include making jewelry, painting rocks or a

snowman/snowflake craft. If you have a few non-crafters (like my boys), don’t worry if they don’t take anything home. They will still leave your party with a full belly and hours of fun memories.

GIFTS

The new trend is to have your child wait to open gifts after the party. This avoids awkwardness and competition over who gave what gift. It also means you don’t have to ask a bunch of kids to sit still for 20 minutes! Feel like your kids have too many toys already? Consider a no-gift party or, if guests still want to bring something, ask for a new, unopened toy to donate to a local foster home or children’s hospital.

MANAGE EXPECTATIONS

Follow up with those who haven’t RSVP’d so you know how many guests to expect. Also, remember that kids are kids. They may end up just playing with your kids’ toys and not spending much time doing the craft you set up or playing the game you organized. Be okay with it, let them have fun and soak in your child’s joy. In the end, your child will enjoy whatever you plan because his friends are there and there are sugary treats. He’ll likely run himself to exhaustion and tell you, “That was the best party ever, Mommy!” as he falls asleep that night. Happy party planning! Olathe mom Karen Johnson has three kids, ages 8, 6 and 4. She writes at The21stCenturySAHM.com.

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PARTYGUIDE in our popcorn machine and the effect will be complete. The kids won’t forget it and you’ll love it as our professional staff takes care of every detail. One of our 4 differently sized screens is sure to fit your occasion and budget. See display ad on pg. 18. www.Movies2U.com.

Paint, Glaze & Fire Ceramics & Coffee House Paint, Glaze & Fire puts the Art in PARTY & is KC’s only paint-your-own pottery studio with a full service coffee bar. Creating beautiful ceramics is fun & easy for everyone from young children to experienced adults. Visit us for birthday parties, Scout outings, corporate team building, girls’ night out, bachelorette parties or “just because.” Only at 127th and Metcalf, 913.661.CLAY (2529). See display ad on pg. 19. BOOK your KIDS Party ONLINE at www.PaintGlazeAndFire.net.

Paradise Park Paradise Park is hands down Kansas City’s favorite place to have a birthday party because our six award-winning party packages create a one-of-a-kind experience for kids and a stress-free party for mom and dad. We take care of everything for you, from activities and hosting to cakes and pizza. Visit www.Paradise-Park.com to view details and book online or call 816.246.5224. See display ad on pg. 18 for coupons.

Pinstripes The best moments happen face to face, so we created Pinstripes to be the expert host who offers curated experiences to create meaningful connections by combining great food, classic bowling, bocce, and events. When it comes to kids parties we know how to show guests a strikingly fun time. Pinstripes can customize your party package to anything from simply gaming, to pizza

making with a chef! Contact op-events@ pinstripes.com to book your party today! See display ad on pg. 17.

Princess at My Party Have your child’s favorite princess come to her birthday party! Choose from Elsa, Anna, Rapunzel, Moana, Elena, Ariel, Belle, Sleeping Beauty, Cinderella, Jasmine and Snow White. Also, inquire about our new Super Girl parties! Then watch the magic unfold as the birthday girl and guests go on an adventure that includes a story, games, music, a makeover or face painting and a treasure hunt. See display ad on pg. 23. 816.830.4841. www.PrincessAtMyParty.com

SoPro Gaming Make your next birthday bash awesome with a game-themed birthday party, inspired by your favorite video games. Let SoPro manage the party so you can enjoy

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this special day. SoProâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s amazing staff will make your special occasion memorable and hassle-free! Access to all Games, PCs, Consoles, and our Virtual Reality motion platform. Play Minecraft, Overwatch, Call of Duty, Mario Kart, Madden Football, and more! Refreshments & gift bags also available. See display ad on pg. 21. www.SoProGaming.com

Urban Air Trampoline Park Urban Air Trampoline Park is an attractive solution to a common problem: needing one place to entertain kids of every age. Just a few blocks from Prairiefire and Corbin Park, our facility is the perfect destination for family entertainment. Our facility caters to birthday parties for kids of all ages. If your group is up for a little sweat and a lot of bounce, we are the place for you. See display ad on pg. 16. www.UrbanAirOP.com

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women’s health care decade by decade

oms, you make sure your kids take their vitamins, eat their veggies and get plenty of sleep. But taking care of your own personal health is equally important. After all, women play a central role in the home, workforce and community. Caring for yourself well assures that all the roles you fill can be done to the fullest potential. Here is a step-by-step guide to taking charge of your health decade by decade.

20s

in your

You’re young and carefree. This is the time to focus on establishing healthy habits that will last a lifetime. Quit smoking (or better yet, don’t start at all). Limit alcohol consumption. And find an exercise program that’s right for you, aiming for 30 minutes a day (play around until you find an exercise routine that is fun and not a chore). While long-term health might be the last thought on your mind, establishing a relationship with a primary care physician now, along with a gynecologist, may be your best bet in early detection and preventive care. This is also the time to focus on proper nutrition, skin care and good sleep habits. After all, practice makes permanent. The habits you develop now are ones that should be worth sustaining into your 30s and 40s. Maintaining a healthy weight is much easier than trying to lose weight later. Wear sunscreen daily. And aim for a full eight hours of sleep a night. This is also a good time to research your family health history. Consult with your mom to see whether your family has any female health issues such as uterine fibroids or endometriosis, as well as any reproductive cancers.

kcparent.com january 2018

30s

in your

For many women, this is a season of constant juggling. Careers become established. Children are often a part of the picture. Even if you put healthy habits in place in your 20s, you may find it easy to let them slip in the balance of trying to do everything else. Don’t! Schedule annual well checks and be on the lookout for subtle changes in your health. Within your doctor’s appointments, you should have your cholesterol, blood pressure and blood sugar checked, as well as receive annual pap smears. Continue to perform breast selfexams and, depending on your risk factors, begin cancer screenings. Increase your calcium intake and begin incorporating high intensity interval training (HIIT) into your workout routine. Many women notice their metabolism begins to decrease around age 35. This can be increasingly challenging if you’re carrying extra weight post-pregnancy. Consider getting a pedometer, which is great for goal setting and doesn’t require extra time throughout your day (simply parking farther back in a parking lot or taking the stairs instead of elevator can help you achieve your step goal all while doing necessary tasks). Be kind to yourself and know your limits. If you find yourself battling anxiety, inform your health care provider.

40s

in your

This decade is considered one of the most critical for long-term health, according to Blue Cross and Blue Shield of KC. A woman’s metabolism continues to be on the decline within her 40s, making it easy to put on weight around the midsection and trunk. Added weight in these areas increases the risk for hypertension and heart disease. Including both strength training and aerobic activity in a regular fitness routine is important to combat both conditions while also maintaining a healthy weight. Even if you don’t eat more than normal, gaining weight is still possible. Aim to eat smaller meals more frequently. Up your leafy greens and reduce your sugar intake but don’t completely deprive yourself (most doctors discourage this as people commonly make matters worse by going overboard later). Women are at increased risk of Type 2 diabetes after 40. The American Diabetes Association recommends screenings for diabetes every three years starting at 45. Depression is also most commonly detected during a woman’s 40s. Although experts don’t have an explanation for this, one contributor may be perimenopause, the onset of menopause which typically affects women by their late 40s. Another cause may be the unique life season women find themselves in, juggling both the care of children and aging parents. Take time for your emotional health by building healthy relationships and establishing a new hobby.

50s

in your

Most women will have gone through menopause by their mid 50s. Routine exams and screenings should continue to be kept in place. In addition to standard care, this is the time to be vigilant about your heart health. Heart disease is the number one killer of women in America, and most women who experience it tend to develop risks throughout their 50s because of the decrease in heart-protecting estrogen that happens throughout menopause. Ninety-five percent of heart attack patients show signs of one or more risk factors, so make sure to have ongoing conversations with your doctor about your numbers. If you suffer from high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes or obesity, consult with your doctor about getting a stress test or EKG in addition to standard tests. All cancer risks increase with age, but the most noted concerns in a woman’s 50s are breast and colon cancer. Your first colonoscopy should be scheduled at 50 (and with normal results should not be needed again for another 10 years). Mammograms should take place annually, with Pap smears occurring every three years.

Lauren Greenlee is a freelance writing boy mom hailing from Olathe. As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns. kcparent.com january 2018

medicine measured by “teaspoonful”…

MISLEADING

e probably can assume Mary Poppins was referring to a kitchen spoon when she recommended administering a “spoonful of sugar” to help the medicine go down. Just how much sugar does she think will do the trick? A “tea” spoonful, a “soup” spoonful or a large “mixing” spoonful? Perhaps bigger is better, as long as you brush your teeth afterwards. But in the case of medicine, spoon size matters, say researchers. Measuring medicine by the teaspoonful might seem obvious, but it actually may not be in light of a recent study of how parents give their children medicine, published in Pediatrics, the official journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics. When labels listed dosages by the teaspoonful, one in six parents reached for a spoon from the kitchen drawer to administer medicine to her children.

The starting point for a healthy smile. Did you know? Kids and teens need extra help keeping their teeth clean when they have braces. We offer both dental and orthodontic specialties in our office. We can combine appointments to reduce trips to multiple offices. Locations:

Overland Park 14465 Metcalf Ave Overland Park KS 66223 913-553-2492

Legends 10940 Parallel Pkwy Kansas City KS 66109 913-948-8688 Owner John P. Roth DDS and family Specialist in Pediatric Dentistry Specialist in Orthodontics

kcparent.com january 2018

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Tableware Is Not a Measuring Device

Preventing Overdoses

The problem is that common tableware teaspoons are not accurate measuring devices. They range in size from 2.5 ml to 9.5 ml (milliliters), while the size of “teaspoon” markings on syringes, droppers and plastic cup medicine dispensers is 5 ml. That leaves too much margin for error. In fact, parents who measured doses in spoonfuls were 50 percent more likely to give incorrect doses than those who measured in milliliters, says the study. The results can be dangerous. Underdosing may not completely treat the child’s illness and can lead to an outbreak of resistant strains of the disease. Overdosing may cause negative side effects that can be life-threatening.

Children can receive accidental overdoses several ways. Dad might give a dose without realizing Mom already has given it to the child. A parent may give two different remedies for separate symptoms without realizing they contain the same active ingredients. Children may eat or drink medicines left out on the counter, in an unlocked cabinet or near the bed after already receiving a bedtime dose. Considering that children get colds six to 10 times per year, parents can’t afford to use the wrong size measuring device. The website for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports more than 70,000 emergency department visits resulting from unintentional medication overdoses among children under the age of 18. It also reports one out of every 151 2-yearolds is treated in an emergency department for an unintentional medication overdose. So measure sugar by the spoonful and medicine by the milliliter.

Misleading Labels Many labels give dosages specifically in milliliters (ml). But the same labels often include teaspoon dosage amounts as well. Parents may skip reading the ml dosage and go straight to the teaspoon amounts. And authors of the study reported that parents often assumed the term “teaspoon” meant a “similar-sized kitchen spoon.” The ideal tools for giving medicine are syringes and droppers that measure in milliliters. Not only do they measure an accurate amount of medicine, they also are easier to use with infants and the elderly. Less spill and slosh means the patient is more likely to ingest the entire amount.

Karen Kight researches and writes updates on recurring parent/ family topics. As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns.

It’s cold and flu season. Find tips for staying healthy at KCParent.com.

If They’ve Got Homework,

You’ve Got Help!

Leigh’s School of Dance

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ha pp i

ss ne

the art of

Merriam-Webster defines happiness as: a: a state of well-being and contentment: joy b: a pleasurable or satisfying experience. Happiness is something we strive for in our everyday lives and want for our families. How do we get and keep it? Where can it be found? We take a look at happiness and how families in Kansas City keep that happy feeling day in and day out.

kcparent.com january 2018

getting happy by By Margaret Sarver

giving back

eeling down and need a pick-me-up? Volunteering not only helps you feel good, but people who volunteer have lower rates of heart disease and live longer than those who don’t volunteer, according to a recent report in the Mayo Clinic Women’s HealthSource newsletter. Volunteering can boost mental health, too. It’s a great way to stay connected socially—and those social connections can help buffer stress and get a person through hard times. Volunteering also can help provide a sense of purpose. To realize the health benefits of volunteering, you’ll need a commitment of 40 to 100 hours a year, studies have shown. That equates to a couple of hours a week. To get started:

• DETERMINE YOUR INTERESTS. Think about what’s enjoyable and what makes you happy. Or focus on an issue you care deeply about. Consider skills you’ve developed over the years and can share or skills you’d like to learn.

• FIND ORGANIZATIONS AND OPPORTUNITIES. Do online research, check community

• DECIDE HOW MUCH TIME YOU CAN OFFER. Opportunities range from getting involved in shortterm events such as fundraising walks or bicycle rides to longer-term, ongoing activities such as tutoring.

• MAKE YOUR MOVE. Phone or visit the organization you’re interested in to determine whether the mutual fit is a good one. If it’s not, keep looking. Many organizations would welcome the skills and wisdom you can share.

commit random acts of kindness If at this stage of life you don’t have time to commit to a weekly volunteer project, then think about committing a random act of kindness! One good deed each day can help up the happiness factor in your daily life. And it’s easy to include the kids. Challenge family members to do a random act each day and then discuss your results over dinner. Not only will you make someone else happy, you’ll make yourself happier as well.

What are your go-to songs

when you need a

pick-me-up?

• B uy a flower and leave it on a friend’s doorstep.

• While running errands, give a stranger a compliment.

• Hold the door open for someone.

bulletin boards or visit the local library. Kansas City has many worthwhile opportunities: hospitals, schools, libraries, food banks, religious organizations, parks, environmental programs, youth groups, humane societies, historic sites and arts organizations. You might even consider reaching beyond the metro area to participate in a volunteer vacation in another state or abroad.

We asked KC Parent’s 52,000+ Facebook fans:

need some inspiration? here are some ideas to get you started:

•W rite a letter to a friend

letting her know how special she is to you.

• Bake cookies and bring to the local police or fire station.

• Send a text wishing someone a good day.

• Bring in a neighbor’s trash cans.

• C omplete a household

chore without being asked.

“P.Y.T.” by Michael Jackson

“Temptation” by New Order

“Can’t Stop the Feeling” by Justin Timberlake

“September” by Earth, Wind & Fire

“Now That We Found Love” by Heavy D & the Boyz

“My God’s Not Dead” by Newsboys

“Electric Love” by Børns “Funkytown” by Lipps Inc “Uptown Funk” by Bruno Mars “Clumsy” by Fergie “Brown Eyed Girl” by Van Morrison “Better When I’m Dancin’” by Meghan Trainer

“Crazy Train” by Ozzy Osborne “It’s a Beautiful Day” by U2 “Daystar (Shine Down on Me)” by Jason Crabb “Keep Your Head Up” by Andy Grammar “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” by Diana Ross “I Will Survive” by Gloria Gaynor kcparent.com january 2018

happy family

happy life learn eight simple secrets of happy families

“Sometimes we forget that life needs to be simple. It’s okay to sit around the table and have dinner together. In the quest for bigger, faster, stronger, smarter, we forget to simply be still. “

appiness can vary depending on our personal circumstances. But why are some families more resilient and happier despite the obstacles life throws their way?

they hang out together. Real connection takes as little as five minutes a day, according to Resolve Counseling child-family therapist Jennifer Jackson-Rice, LSCSW/LSCW. Sit next to each other during homework time, cook together, read books at bedtime and chat with each other while driving to activities. Create calmer, more cheerful mornings by prepping the night before or getting yourself up a little earlier. “That connection in the first part of the day can carry kids throughout the day,” Jackson-Rice says. Michelle Hon, a South Kansas City mom of two boys, ages 4 and 2, agrees. She says that the first 30 minutes in the morning and the last 30 minutes before bedtime help her family feel grounded, calm and loved. “We do a lot of snuggles and cuddles in the morning, and we try not to make that a rushed time in our home,” Hon says. In the evening, she and her husband, Michael, stick to a bedtime routine with their sons, which includes reading books together and quietly reflecting on the day. they cheer for each other. Celebrate your kids’ interests and successes by acknowledging their efforts rather than zeroing in on what went wrong: • “I loved watching you play.”

• “I like how you colored this so neatly!” • “Great job on your test. I can tell you really concentrated.”

“When we praise our children, self-esteem goes up. When self-esteem is high, connection is good, behaviors are good,” Jackson-Rice says.

they seek fulfillment. While material items like the latest electronics, designer jeans and trendy toys may bring fleeting joy, they won’t deliver lasting contentment. “I don’t think we can teach our kids to be happy if we’re looking to external sources to feed that emotion,” says parent coach Cati Winkel, owner of the Empowered Parent Coach, Overland Park.

kcparent.com january 2018

And that includes looking to others for validation of selfworth, which can result in behaviors like people-pleasing or obsessing over likes on social media. “This is where we get a lot of shame. People become really unhappy because they have unrealistic expectations to live up to,” Winkel says. Research suggests that children who grow up to be happier adults are encouraged early on to engage in activities they enjoy and that help them develop their strengths. Foster children’s innate sense of curiosity and explore a variety of activities with your kids, ranging from hobbies to volunteer work. The intrinsic rewards of participating in activities that deliver personal gratification contributes to positive self-esteem and confidence.

they eat together. Multiple research studies show that eating dinner together can lower the incidence of substance abuse, teen pregnancy and depression. Kids who dine with their parents are more likely to have higher grade point averages, higher self-esteem and even stronger vocabularies. If possible, turn off the TV and put aside electronics to be in the moment around your dinner table with your family. “Sometimes we forget that life needs to be simple. It’s okay to sit around the table and have dinner together. In the quest for bigger, faster, stronger, smarter, we forget to simply be still,” Jackson-Rice says. “We forget to simply connect…to be with our kids.”

they show affection. Families today face plenty of stress. One simple antidote is to hug more. “An eight-second hug is one of the best ways to give and get self-care,” Winkel says. “An eight-second hug releases oxytocin and great feel-good, stress-relieving hormones. Hug your babies. Hug your kids. Hug your partner.” Hon’s youngsters show affection for people who visit them by blowing kisses and waving goodbye when it’s time for their visitors to depart. “From an adult perspective, I know we’re expressing gratitude and making people feel loved and valued and that makes me really happy,” Hon says. “There’s nothing like getting kisses blown to you from a 2-year-old from the street!”

they goof off. Play and laugh together. “Then, your kids get to experience you as human,” Winkel says. Sing together in the car, make up zany songs when it’s time to brush teeth, exchange riddles or jokes, jam to funky music in your living room or make a funny face to defuse a tense situation. Manage power struggles playfully. Is your preschooler refusing to get dressed? Respond by dramatically trying to

put their clothes on. “It helps them lighten up a little bit. We don’t have to be all serious all of the time,” Winkel says. Also, follow your child’s lead. Play dolls, Legos or craft together. If your child likes to bike ride, explore new trails together. Schedule a family board game night or play video games together. Jackson-Rice says her two teens love Snapchat so she signed up for the app too. “They love it when I’m snapping a picture of what I’m doing. It’s a little silly for me, but that’s the way they connect and what they’re passionate about right now,” she says.

they create community. Not all parents can rely on their family of origin to provide positive emotional and practical support. If this is the case for you, focus on building friendships through your neighborhood, church or your child’s school. The Hons rely on a family of “adopted” aunts, uncles, grandmas and grandpas to help them with their youngsters, which also helps them nurture their marriage. “My kids go to the zoo all of the time with a little set of aunties that we have,” Hon says. “That’s their thing. That allows my husband and me to have quiet time in our house or quality time out.”

they honor emotions. Empathize with your children when they’re upset, listen and validate their feelings and verbally label their emotions. Avoid taking your child’s behavior personally or rushing to fix kids’ problems. Given the opportunity, kids often can peacefully problem-solve and negotiate with siblings and playmates without parental interference. According to relationship expert John Gottman, kids who learn to self-soothe move through negative emotions faster. These same kids also tend to form stronger friendships, which is another key to long-term happiness. Freelance journalist Christa Melnyk Hines and her husband are the parents of two boys. Christa’s latest book is Happy, Healthy & Hyperconnected: Raise a Thoughtful Communicator in a Digital World.

reflective conversation starters

• What was the highlight of your day? • D id anything in your day make you sad/ happy/angry, etc.?

•W hat are you looking forward to tomorrow?

kcparent.com january 2018

happiness by the numbers We asked our FB fans to take a happiness survey, and here’s what they had to say: top activities

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top activities

that make parents happy

that make kids happy

• Seeing kids happy • Spending quality time with family • Socializing with friends • Date night/adult-only time • Playing games

• Hanging out with friends • Playing games • Being outside • Outings (park, zoo, amusement park) • Doing well in school

WE ASKED

things

that bring you down:

• 58% Children arguing • 35% Negative attitudes • 32% Money worries • 24% Not enough time

“which activities would make your family happier?” You answered:

• Dining out (45%) OR Eating a meal together at home (55%) • Taking a vacay (92%) OR Getting a new car (8%) • Having more money (32%) OR Having more time (68%) • Hiring a house cleaner (89%) OR Hiring a cook (11%)

daily happiness habits: coffee in the morning

daily devotions listening to music me time

kcparent.com january 2018

excercise

talking to family/ friends

silence your screen:

unplug your way to happy

n today’s society, children have endless options for media entertainment right at their fingertips. The average American child spends 1,500 hours a year on some sort of electronic device, whereas they spend only 900 hours in a school setting. In most homes, the TV is left on an average of seven hours a day, and 90 percent of parents with children under the age of 2 say that their children watch some form of electronic media for an average of one to two hours per day. Nothing is wrong with mixing some form of technology with kids, but “unplugging” them from their devices can inspire your children to explore new interests, create new hobbies, connect with family and friends, daydream and investigate the world around them.

By Jennifer Duxbury

books to promote being screen-free

try detoxing from the screens to bring some more happy into your life. What does it mean? Decide what screen-free means for you and your family. Of course, school programs and work obligations are excused, but does texting count? Or how about Skyping with family members? Maybe it just means no TV. Set obtainable goals that your family actually can accomplish.

start scheduling now. Make plans for your screen-free time. Do

• Doug Unplugged (ages 5-9)

boredom is okay. It’s natural to want to entertain our children, but

• hello! hello! (ages 2-6) • Chloe (ages 4-8) • Blackout (ages 4-8) • Press Here (ages 2 & up) • I’m Bored (ages 3-8) • A Few Blocks (ages 4-7) • Aunt Chip & the Great Triple

try suppressing that urge because, believe it or not, it’s good for them to be bored! Boredom creates creativity, which in turn allows them to discover themselves and the world around them on their own.

• How Rocket Learned to Read

your kids want to learn how to roller skate or ride their bikes without training wheels? This would be a great time to get out, learn something new and get involved in your community.

have a plan. Think about your daily routine. What time of the day do your kiddos usually reach for the technology? Have other activities available for them to enjoy such as a ready-made craft, puzzles or board games. Fill a jar with suggested activities they can choose from to encourage independent play. If all else fails, send them outside! Pinterest is full of screen-free activities along with free printable activity cards.

Taking out the technology is a challenge, no doubt about it. Hopefully after you’ve scheduled time without it, you will be inspired to create screen-free habits that you use all year long. Good luck!

Creek Dam Affair (ages 5-8) (ages 3-6)

• The Best Story (ages 5-8)

kcparent.com january 2018

things to say (and not say) to your child

“S

arah, would you mind emptying the dishwasher for me sometime today? It really needs to be done, okay?” Mom says. Without looking up from her book, Sarah twirls a strand of hair and mumbles, “Mmmhmm.” Wait, what just happened? Does Sarah’s mom actually want Sarah to empty the dishwasher today, or is she giving her the option to empty it today? Did Sarah’s mumble mean that she would empty it or not? Did Sarah really hear her mom? These are all very good questions. How you speak to your child makes all the difference. If you want him truly to listen and do as he’s told, a more direct approach is needed than what Sarah’s mom displayed. Here are five things to say (and not say) to your child to be sure he hears you and understands what is being asked.

DON’T: When a negative response isn’t an option, don’t ask your child leading questions such as, “Will you please clean the bathroom?” or “I need you to clean the bathroom sometime today, okay?” No parent wants her child to respond by saying no, so why leave the door open for it? DO: Be direct and say, “Clean the bathroom, please.”

DON’T: Ramble on and explain why you need him to put his clothes away. “Eric, will you please put your clothes away today? I’m so tired of them lying on your floor. Your room is a disaster! I can’t stand looking at the mess anymore!” The more you talk, the less he hears.

DO: Be brief and use the one-sentence rule. Talk longer than that, and your words will go in one ear and out the other. “Eric, please put your clothes away.” Then, have him repeat your request back to you. If he can’t, then your request was way too long.

kcparent.com january 2018

DON’T: Use threats such as, “You’d better clean that bathroom” or “If that room isn’t cleaned right now…” Threats are likely to create a defensive child, as are “you” messages such as, “You need to clean the bathroom.” DO: Use “I” messages such as, “I would like you to clean the bathroom” or “I need to you clean the bathroom right now,” instead of threats.

DON’T: Constantly remind your child about what you want her to do. Constant nagging doesn’t go over well, especially with tweens and teens. Plus, reminding teaches them they don’t have to follow through the first time. DO: Communicate without saying another word. Instead of constant nagging, write down what you want him to do. Leave fun and humorous notes around the house where your child will see them. This will create more smiles than complaints, and chores just might become a little more fun around your home.

“ How you

speak to your

child makes all the difference .”

DON’T: Shout orders across the house, walk through a room rambling what you expect your child to do or text it to her. DO: Connect with your child. If you want her to be present and attentive to your requests, you must be present too. Make sure your posture is open and loving, then walk over to her (within a few feet) and make eye contact. Be sure to open your request by saying her name: “Kathy, I need you to …” This will let her know you have something important to say.

We parents easily get caught in the trap of explaining, reminding and arguing with our children. When a child is informed of what chores need to be done, he naturally may want to argue. When you argue with your child, you reinforce that arguing is an acceptable response to your instruction and expectation. Instead, using a nonthreatening tone, simply inform him of the consequence that will happen should the expectation not be met and then leave the room. Parenting is tough, and knowing how to speak to a child to get the outcome you desire is tricky. However, with these tools in hand, you’re on your way to achieving your goal, and your child will be learning from you. Kansas City mom and author Gina Klein loves discovering new ways to talk to and work with her tween and teen daughters in order to get things done and keep arguments at bay.

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EMBRACE

M I N I M A L I S M

A S

P A R E N T

he holidays are officially over, and I usually become a bit somber when all the holly jolliness is taken down and put into storage bins until next fall. However, even though the new year begins in the dead of winter, I do find

solace in the fact that January offers a fresh start, a much-needed kick-in-thepants motivation when itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s frigid outside. January makes me think of words like blue, white, clean and organized. With the holiday decor put away, the house tends to feel bare at first but then clean and spacious after some time passes. But because weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve just celebrated the holidays, we parents have MORE stuff to put away and find homes for.

kcparent.com january 2018

before Christmas and birthdays. This

direction. Remarkably, all but one

mom anxiety each year, and last year

allows hesitant children a reason to

of her friends gave her Pinkalicious

I attempted to address the issue in a

let go, making room for new toys

books without any duplicates! I also

tactful way. You see, we have pretty

heading their way. If your kids hold

advise explaining your gift guidelines

much lived states away from all

on tight to toys just when it’s time to

to your child before the party so she

our family during our parenthood

sell or donate them, try cleaning up

knows what to expect.

journey. We also are extremely blessed

their rooms for them while they’re

that our kids have four grandparents

away from the house. Put items you’d

birthday party, as described by Sarah

and six great-grandparents who like to

like to get rid of in a tub and keep out

Schultz at NurseLovesFarmer.com.

lavish love on them. This is wonderful

of sight for a month. If they haven’t

The idea is similar to help cut down

except for the little fact that our kids

missed the items, I’d say you are safe

on toy clutter by having everyone gift

have far too many toys, and all the

to purge. The fact is that the less you

$5 toward a more expensive toy the

grandparents can’t visit very often to

have, the less time you spend cleaning

birthday boy/girl would really like.

see what toys our kids already have. As

up. This is a truth bomb moms need

Kids love money, and it’s an easy and

their mom, I have to find a home for

to hear! Children actually enjoy an

affordable option for most families.

everything and keep things organized

uncluttered space to play too.

Christmas has given me more

Another great idea is having a fiver

Now, on the flip side, if you are

and accessible. Yes, my kids do pick up

requesting less junk in your home,

after themselves, but guess who must

I think it’s only fair to apply the same

keep instructing them to do so and

THE LESS

advising where things are supposed

YOU HAVE,

to go? I realized I was spending more time sorting, organizing, purging and being stressed out than I was being the kind, patient mom I want to be who has time to play with my children. Around this time last year, my husband and I watched Minimalism:

THE LESS TIME YOU SPEND CLEANING UP.

principle in giving gifts. We tend to give gift cards to local ice cream shops, make-your-own pottery places, local toy stores and Chick-fil-A. I will be honest: My kids don’t find it as fun to give a decorated envelope to their friends, but in my opinion, the party is about having fun together, not the gifts.

A Documentary About the Important

If you need some more

Things on Netflix. We started purging

encouragement, I recommend

everything, and it was freeing. Did

A child’s birthday party also brings

following Becoming Minimalist on

I need three pie pans when I barely

an onslaught of toys. I tend to want

Facebook. They post some great

make more than two pies a year? How

to avoid parties altogether for this

quotes such as, “If you have to buy

many spatulas does one family

reason (and do every other year) but

stuff to store your stuff, you might

need? What toys are overlooked that

instead decided to risk coming across

have too much stuff.”

another child could enjoy instead? We

as particular for sanity’s sake. For my

sell or donate so regularly now

daughter’s sixth birthday party we put

that every time I take a picture of

on all invitations, “Your presence is

something my kids ask if I’m selling it.

present enough unless you would like

Stephanie Loux is the mother of

My kids are also very involved in

to help Layla start her Pinkalicious

Layla, 7, Mason, 5, and Slade, 2,

sorting through their toys and clothes

book collection.” This gives other

and writes from her home. You can

frequently. A good rule of thumb is

weary parents an easy out but also

check out more of her writing at

to look at what you could part with

gives well-meaning gift givers some

LettersFromTheLouxs.blogspot.com.

kcparent.com january 2018

speed up the dawdler

s your family always running late? Do you find yourself frustratedly repeating phrases like “Hurry!”, “Let’s go!” or “Come on! We are going to be late!” every morning? Like many families, you may have a dawdler living in your house. Getting kids ready for the day and out the door, especially on school mornings, is challenging for any parent. But when you have one or more children who seem to take their time every morning, getting anywhere on time can seem impossible. Here are some tips to help you speed up the dawdler in your family.

Set limits Typically, dawdlers are easily distracted. Many times I have sent my son upstairs for some socks and he has come back down barefoot carrying a toy plane. Reduce distractions by limiting toys and screen time (for both parents and kids) in the morning. Remind kids they will have plenty of time for play after school when their homework and chores are complete.

kcparent.com january 2018

Make it a competition Many parents have success getting their dawdler to pick up the pace by creating a game or competition for thim. Holly Searls, Olathe mom of four, says, “We set timers for everything. There is usually a motivator connected to the timer. For example, if they beat the timer, they get to stay up later. A negative consequence may be losing TV time.” DeAnne Turley, Kansas City, KS, mother of three, uses a sticker chart to motivate her kids. For example, if they are ready on time, they get a sticker and if they collect 30 stickers, they get a date night with the parent of their choice. Creating a competition or game out of each task in the morning is a great way to keep your child on task.

Be prepared Families have so many things to remember in the morning. Is there orchestra today? Practice after school? What’s for lunch? Do you have your math homework? Reduce the stress of these last minute questions greatly by preparing the night

before. “Choices seem to slow us down the most,” says Krystal Laws, Olathe mother of seven. “We pick out clothes the night before and lay shoes by the door. This makes the mornings run smoother.” Loading backpacks, packing lunches and setting out any sports equipment or instruments the night before will help everyone feel more prepared the next morning and focus on the goal of getting out the door on time.

Get up earlier For those children who need a little extra time, simply rising earlier in the morning may give them the minutes they need to meet departure time. “My daughter needs time to wake up and adjust to a new day. So we just had to start getting up earlier,” says Daniale Lakin of Omaha, NE. For other families, if the parents are able to wake up earlier and get themselves ready and prepared for the day, the whole family has a more relaxed morning because there are fewer people who need to get ready at the same time.

vering

Face the consequences

Even the most prepared family is sometimes late. Older children who tend to dawdle may benefit from facing the natural consequences that go along with being late or forgetful. “After years of arguments, I decided to put the ball in their court. If they are not prepared or punctual for the day, then they suffer the consequences the school ACE THE NEXT REPORT CARD WITH SYLVAN gives,” says Jessica Bright-Schaben, mother of three. “If they forget homework or to charge We know academic results are important devices, they may have to stay after school. CUSTOM OFFER arning, Results Matter to you. Sylvan students typically see up to AREA gettothem at games. ” Teaching ypically seeTardies up to two three benched times more growth in their math two to three times more growth in their 100 Details of offer and We know academic * es than if they hadn’t come to Sylvan . disclaimer can go in here. 90 children that if they are late,and they may face math reading scorestothan if they SYLVAN ACCELERATES results are important Select color of offer block Offer valid at participating STUDENT PROGRESS l get: 80 hadn’t come to Sylvan*. you. Sylvan students locations only. Expires consequences or miss out on something 70 65.7 ylvan Insight™ process, where we taketypically the time to really to 12/12/13. see upget to two Act now and make this school year the helps them become responsible for how they d and develop a plan for success. 60 toone three times more best yet. 50 oring approach that blends amazing teachers with manage their time. “They could block outmath my 43.5 growth inSylvanSync™ their the iPad ® for a truly engaging learning experience. 40 nagging, but when they couldn’t play orscores attend and reading 30 your family’s busy schedule – and budget. 23.0 19.8 thanthey if they hadn’t practice because of detention, picked up 20 make this school year the best onecome yet. to Sylvan.* 10 the pace immediately,” Bright-Schaben says. Select number0 of locations MATH READING A dawdler can slow the whole family Act now and make EXPECTED STUDENT GROWTH this school year the down or make them late. Try to encourage ACTUAL STUDENT GROWTH WITH SYLVAN best one yet. your child to prepare as much as possible *See the complete Sylvan Field Research Results at SylvanResearchInstitute.com. complete Sylvan Field Research Results at SylvanResearchInstitute.com. the night before and get to bed*See onthetime. Kids lawdir@sylvanks.com who get a good night’s sleep have better focus Overland Park Shawnee the next day. If dawdling continues, let Sylvan them of Lawrence 913.681.1141 913.543.6085 face the natural consequences of their pokey ple, Inc, pace. Although some of us tend to move SYLVANLEARNING.COM ces. lawdir@sylvanks.com more slowly than others—especially in the morning—teaching your children these skills *See the complete Sylvan Field Research Results at SylvanResearchInstitute.com. will help them manage their mornings.

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H kcparent.com january 2018

cut your kitchen time

f you’re like me, you want to spend less time in the kitchen cooking so you can spend more time hanging out with your kids. I have to admit I’m getting tired of seeing the pizza delivery guy and am pretty sure I’m putting him through college on tips alone. So I’m setting out to find some new ways to cut my time in the kitchen. Here are a few things I’m planning:

Stock up on meals at home. A few years ago I bought a cookbook about doing two weeks of cooking in one day. It took me about five hours to pack my freezer with 14 different meals (including leftovers, this would feed my family for three weeks). This method definitely saved time over cooking on a nightly basis because I had similar ingredients all chopped at once and ready to assemble. I also cooked all my meat in large batches and tossed entire meals in plastic zip baggies that save room in the freezer over foil pans and plastic ware, as well as being cheaper. Being able to look at a busy day on my calendar and know that I had a premade dinner thawing and ready to pop in the oven was amazing. Check out these books:

kcparent.com january 2018

• Once-a-Month Cooking: A Proven

System for Spending Less Time in the Kitchen and Enjoying Delicious, Homemade Meals Everyday by Mary Beth Lagerborg and Mimi Wilson

• The Freezer Cooking Manual from

30 Day Gourmet: A Month of Meals Made Easy by Nanci Slagle

• Frozen Assets: How to Cook for a

Day and Eat for a Month by Deborah Taylor-Hough

Stock up off site. I’ve been dying to try one of those places like Social Suppers where you assemble the meals while they provide the containers, food and supplies. I mean, just think: You don’t have to clean your kitchen either, which is like a dream come true! Try it with several friends and make it a fun night out while accomplishing something at the same time. Or take your family for a bonding experience. In about two hours you can make 10-12 meals for a family of four to six.

Stock up delivery. We used to belong to a food service that would deliver every six months. We got a few prepared meals, as well as frozen vegetables, meats, juice concentrate, pancakes, etc. It got a little costly at times, and the value would depend on where I was in my life. For instance, right after the kids were born, I treasured the home delivery aspect and downplayed the cost. These days, options abound, from having groceries delivered, to having meals delivered to receiving a food kit with all the ingredients. Meal swapping or cooperative cooking. This is a great option if your family is getting tired of your cooking and would love to try something new and different. You initially spend a little more time in the kitchen making a triple portion of a meal, but the extra time is worth it when you give away two of those meals to two different families and have two more ready-made meals coming into your own home. You get a week’s worth of meals (if you count leftovers on alternating nights)

and you only have to cook one night. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m already planning what to make for meal swaps when I get them all set up, because I have an arsenal of five-ingredient meals up my sleeve: tater tot casserole (so many variations can be made), lasagna, broccoli ham quiche and baked spaghetti pie. Just think of the variety of food that will be on your table!

Potluck group. This is a great way to get friends and family together on a monthly or weekly basis, and nobody has to cook an entire meal. One person brings a veggie, one brings a meat dish, another some bread and so on until you have a complete meal. It saves time and money in the kitchen, and everyone benefits while getting in some social time! Make sure to alternate who brings the main dish, like chili, and other people who attend can be assigned to bring crackers, cheese, sour cream, hot sauce, juice pouches and soda. Kerrie McLoughlin (TheKerrieShow.com) is the mom of five kids and has an e-book of tater tot casserole and dessert recipes on Amazon!

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SCIENCE SAYS:

make time for play

how playtime boosts learning for toddlers and preschoolers

hen Meag Diamond of Tacoma began touring potential preschools for her toddler son, Keats, she saw a number of beautifully laid-out spaces filled with immaculate worktables, inviting book nooks and inspiring art stations. What she didn’t see was unstructured, unhurried play—kids completely immersed in activities of their own choosing, absorbed in their own imaginations, creating with peers and engaging with nature. That underwhelmed Diamond, who spent six years as a Montessori teacher. “Kids aren’t getting that long amount of time to enter into play, manipulating materials, learning about balance and cause and effect. It didn’t feel right to me to have my son in a program that would limit the amount of play and stop that flow from happening.” She didn’t find a school that fit the bill—so she created one. With her husband, Jose Estrada, Diamond opened Tacoma’s Chavitos Nature School, an outdoor Spanish immersion school, in the fall of 2015. In the preschool program for ages 2–5, children spend virtually all of the three-hour class session outdoors, deep in play. They climb trees, build fantastical forts with planks and plastic piping, dig for worms, collect pinecones and engage in the type of uninterrupted play that Diamond views as critical to learning and brain growth. “We don’t call them in until there’s a natural break in the play,” she says. When play does slow down, typically about halfway through each session, the kids gather for snack and journaling. Within a year of Chavitos’ opening, the school had a full roster of children (two preschool classes with eight children in each; and a class for kindergartners through fifth graders). The school maintains a year-round waiting list of families eager to try Diamond and Estrada’s model of play-based learning. But does it work? The short answer: yes. According to researchers, a child’s earliest learning is rooted not in formalized education, but in play.

kcparent.com january 2018

Ages 0-2: Sensory scientists From birth, children are “scientists exploring the world, building their understanding of the world through play,” says Amelia Bachleda, Ph.D., outreach and education specialist with the University of Washington Institute for Learning and Brain Sciences (I-LABS). Now’s the time to dig out all those colorful toys, rattles and mobiles. In the first six months of life, bright, textured, crinkly or noise-making toys help spark brain-building play as infants fine-tune their senses. “Grasping for an exciting toy that’s just out of reach during tummy time, feeling different textures, looking at brightly colored things—engaging the senses is important at this point in development when babies are first exploring their world and building fine motor skills and coordination,” says Bachleda.

The best toy in the room? You. During back-and-forth interactions with caregivers in games like peekaboo, infants learn about empathy and social dynamics. During these earliest play sessions, an adult’s closeness and attentiveness can help encourage cognitive growth. In a 2017 study published in the journal Child Development, 5-month-old infants who spent more time in mutual gaze (i.e., holding eye contact) with their mothers during play had longer attention spans at 11 months old than infants who spent less time locking eyes with Mom. Child-led play is also important, even in infancy. When children lead their own play, they naturally gravitate toward uncovering something they want to know about, says Bachleda. But parents may not always realize it. According to Bachleda, “Children are amazing logical thinkers, constantly running their own experiments” and

testing newfound knowledge to see whether people or objects act the same way consistently—as any parent can attest who’s taken part in a baby’s repeated experiment of dropping a drinking cup or spoon, then gleefully dropping it again as soon as it’s retrieved. Research from Johns Hopkins University suggests that 11-month-old infants will pay more attention to an object that has surprised them—like a ball that’s seemingly passed through a solid wall—than one that performs as expected. Another Johns Hopkins study found that when 11-month-olds saw an object presented in an unexpected way, like a toy car flying in midair instead of rolling on the ground, they changed the way they played with that object. Babies who saw a floating car were more likely to replicate this scene in their play, reflecting a new understanding of the world. Like scientists, babies are always using past discoveries to try to predict future events. In a 2015 study conducted by Andrew N. Meltzoff, Ph.D., a University

of Washington psychology professor and an I-LABS co-director, and his colleagues, children as young as 24 months old showed an intuitive understanding of probability. By watching adults play a game, the tots were able to predict the strategy that would lead to success, even if the strategy was complex. This showed that simply observing adult interactions can help toddlers learn about cause and effect.

Ages 3-5: Social engineers As toddlers turn into preschoolers, play becomes more complex in the form of coordinated play with peers. (You’ll see more side-by-side or “parallel” play in younger toddlers.) Coordinated play among preschoolage children helps bridge the gap between the simple back-and-forth game play of babies and the rule-driven play of older children. It also builds a child’s prefrontal cortex and offers kids vital lessons about themselves and the world. “In coordinated play, children are playing imaginative dramatic games, learning how to tell a story through their actions, developing plot through their imaginative play or playing games with rules that require executive functions, like paying attention, flexible thinking, shortterm memory and inhibitory skills,” says Bachleda. A prime example of a coordinated play game for the preschool set is “Simon Says,” in which players act out a simple command, but only if “Simon says.” Players must recall the game’s rules and exercise flexible thinking because sometimes they’ll have to do the opposite of what’s requested or inhibit their reaction. Research shows this type of coordinated play helps build vital social skills, such as gaining perspective, restraint, emotional regulation and cooperation. In a 2017 study published in the Journal of Experimental Child Psychology, Meltzoff of I-LABS found that coordinated movements during play, such as swinging in sync with another child

on a swing set, enhanced cooperation in 4-year-olds. Kids who participated in coordinated physical movement were then more likely to collaborate successfully—in this case, by working together to solve a problem presented by a computer game—immediately after the coordinated physical activity (in this case, the swinging). Researchers don’t know exactly why this happens, but the study showed the importance of coordinated play among preschoolers, according to Bachleda. In one 2017 study in the Journal of Experimental Child Psychology, researchers at Cornell University found that children as young as 4 could understand and apply complex social rules in a game setting, deciding when rules could be changed and who could change them. In the study, children determined that a game’s rules could be changed by the child who invented the game, but not by other players—only when a game was initiated by the group could the group jointly alter the game’s rules. This nuanced view of authority and social boundaries helps expand a child’s abilities to navigate the world at large, says Bachleda. Such complexity among preschoolers doesn’t surprise Meag Diamond of Chavitos. Play provides an ideal platform for social education that can’t be matched by a formal curriculum, she says. “Social and emotional skills are created through conflict, turn-taking and kids’ not getting what they want in the moment, and learning to communicate.” Play, she adds, is the best way to instill that complex learning. But perhaps the best part? The simpler pleasures of play: Kids’ collecting pinecones, digging for worms and exploring the forest, lost in thought. “When children get to play freely, they’ll grow up knowing more about their own passions and interests, and about themselves,” Diamond says. “It’s a tremendous gift.”

Malia Jacobson is a nationally published journalist specializing in health and family topics.

Head to KCParent.com for ideas of where to play in KC!

kcparent.com january 2018

WINTER

fun guide! table of contents 45

popsicle stick snowflakes

soup recipes

beating the winter blues

let it snow

31 days of fun

winter warm-up While the weather outside may be frightful, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lots indoors to keep you busy! Visit KCGoingPlaces.com for over 500 places to visit in the KC metro!

kcparent.com january 2018

CRAFTCORNER

This easy craft is a great way to celebrate winter without having to break out the coats and gloves.

popsicle stick snowflakes

f you are stuck indoors on a cold and dreary afternoon, these Popsicle stick snowflakes are just the thing to add some cheer to your day! This easy craft is a great way to celebrate winter without having to break out the coats and gloves. Your kids will love decorating their own snowflakes and making each one unique!

Materials Needed: • Popsicle sticks • Paint

• Paintbrush

• Jewels

• Yarn • Hot glue gun

Step One: Paint the Popsicle sticks with a coat of light blue paint. Step Two: Glue three to four sticks on top of each other to form a snowflake shape.

Step Three: Add jewels or other embellishments with hot glue or white school glue.

Step Four: If desired, attach a loop of yarn to the back of the snowflake to hang. Megan Kapple is a blogger from Kansas City, MO, where she lives with her husband and four children. She loves anything DIY and crafty and blogs about her adventures at HomemadeGinger.com.

DIY Snow Globe

Marbled Dish Towels

Chalk Snowflakes

For TONS more great craft projects, log onto KCParent.com! kcparent.com january 2018

SOUP Need a quick dinner recipe? Head to KCParent.com for one-pot recipes including Easy, Lazy Pot Roast and Fiesta Chicken.

SPOON UP TRADITION When cooler temperatures call for something to warm you up, good old-fashioned soups and stews may be just what you need. You can create delicious, steaming pots that taste like they’re straight out of Mom’s kitchen with flavorful, convenient ingredients such as Aunt Nellie’s Pickled Beets and READ Salads to help streamline preparation. With these contemporary recipes, you’re in and out of the kitchen in under an hour without any long simmering required.

BACON-APPLE RED CABBAGE SOUP Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 20 minutes Servings: 4 2 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped 1 med. red onion, chopped (about 1/2 c.) 1 clove garlic, minced 1 jar (16 oz.) sweet & sour red cabbage, not drained 2 c. low-sodium, fat-free chicken or vegetable broth 1 med. apple, chopped (about 1 c.), plus additional for garnish (optional) 1/4 t. ground cinnamon (optional) 1/8 t. ground allspice (optional) 1/8 t. ground cloves (optional) plain yogurt or sour cream (optional) crumbled cooked bacon (optional)

kcparent.com january 2018

In large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook bacon 2-3 minutes or until cooked through and crisp. Remove bacon from skillet; reserve. Drain drippings; return 1 tablespoon to pan and discard remaining drippings. Add onion to pan. Cook about 2 minutes, until tender, stirring frequently. Add garlic; cook and stir about 30 seconds. Add red cabbage and liquid from jar, broth and chopped apple. Stir in cinnamon, allspice and cloves. Bring to boil. Reduce heat and simmer covered, 10 minutes. Add water, 1/2 cup at a time, if soup is too thick. Add bacon to pan. Continue simmering about 3-5 minutes, until apples are tender and soup reaches desired consistency. Spoon into bowl. Garnish with apples, yogurt and crumbled bacon, if desired.

RUSTIC VEGETABLE BEET SOUP Prep time: 30 minutes Cook time: 15 minutes Servings: 6 1 jar (16 oz.) whole pickled beets, drained 2 T. olive oil 2 med. onions, coarsely chopped 2 med. carrots, coarsely chopped 1 med. sweet potato, peeled and chopped 2 large cloves garlic, minced 2 zucchinis (about 5 oz. ea.), coarsely chopped 2 cans (about 14 oz. ea.) vegetable broth 1 t. seasoned salt (optional) 1 can (15 1/2 oz.) chickpeas, drained and rinsed salt to taste pepper to taste 2 T. finely chopped fresh parsley 2 T. finely chopped fresh dill Gremolata: 1 T. minced fresh parsley 1 T. minced fresh dill 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 t. grated lemon peel Coarsely chop beets; set aside. In large saucepan, heat oil over medium heat. Add onions; cook about 5 minutes or until softened. Add carrots, sweet potato and garlic. Cook 3-5 minutes or until vegetables begin to soften, stirring occasionally. Add zucchini, broth and seasoned salt, if desired. Bring to boil. Reduce heat and simmer partially covered, about 15 minutes or until vegetables are tender. Add chickpeas; heat through. Season, to taste with salt and pepper. To prepare Gremolata: In small bowl, combine all ingredients. Stir in parsley and dill. Stir in beets. Serve immediately; top with Gremolata, if desired.

SOUP

GERMAN POTATO SALAD SOUP Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 15 minutes Servings: 4 1 c. chopped onion 1 c. chopped red bell pepper 1 T. olive oil 2 cans (15 oz. ea.) German potato salad, chopped 1 bottle (12 oz.) light beer 3/4 c. reduced-sodium, fat- free chicken broth 6 oz. (1 c.) diced ham, smoked turkey or sliced smoked sausage (optional) 1/2 t. salt (optional)

1/4 t. pepper 1 T. chopped parsley rye croutons (optional) crumbled bacon (optional) In Dutch oven or 3-quart saucepan over medium heat, cook onion and bell pepper in oil until onion starts to brown, 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add potato salad, beer, broth and meat, if desired, and stir to combine. Bring to boil, reduce heat and simmer uncovered 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add salt, if desired, pepper and parsley. Serve topped with rye croutons and bacon, if desired. FAMILY FEATURES kcparent.com january 2018

WINTER

fun guide!

beating the winter blues how to keep the kids (and yourself) from going stir crazy during the winter months

hen it’s nice outside and the kids start getting a little rambunctious, the easy solution is to send them outdoors to run and play. Yet on very cold or snowy days, finding ways for them to exert energy and arrange entertainment can be a challenge. How do you maintain your sanity and keep the kids from bouncing off the walls when you are all stuck indoors? Here are a few ideas to help make the most of your time indoors:

She says sometimes her kids pretend their forts are a grocery store or a drive-through restaurant. Talkington only brings the fort sets out on days when a special indoor activity is needed, so the fun remains something to relish. The family now has neighbor kids wanting to come over and play with the sets. Of course, old-fashioned forts with sheets and blankets draped over furniture are always sure to provide long hours of entertainment.

build indoor forts.

bring bikes, roller skates and other similar outdoor toys inside to the garage or unfinished basement.

Rachel Talkington, a Lee’s Summit mom of three, purchased two construction fort sets from the Discovery Kids brand. These products allow one to build a wide variety of structures and are something she says keeps her kids entertained all day. “There is something about being under the tent that is so cool,” Talkington says. “Sometimes we let them eat a picnic lunch under there.”

kcparent.com january 2018

Kids may not have as much room to enjoy these activities in more restricted spaces, but on a cold day, they still can burn off some energy with these toys.

have bins of toys and activities you bring out only on cold days.

free or nearly free indoor activities

Lee’s Summit mom Christina Larson created bins of activities to help entertain her son on cold, boring days. She included toy figures, animals and vehicles, as well as blocks, arts and craft supplies, sorting and stacking items, playdough and magnets. She bought most of these items at a dollar store and sorted them into shoeboxsized plastic containers. Larson also set up sensory tables or kiddie pools with things such as water, shaving cream, dry oatmeal, noodles, rice, corn and beans. As her son has gotten a little older, she has begun including more puzzles into the mix of activities. Story tiles, flannel and felt story boards and flash cards are other activities she has used. Overall, she says these ideas have helped keep her son engaged even when the weather was nice outside and they just needed more options of things to do.

Burr Oak Woods and Lakeside Nature Center are two places for kids to go to learn about animals and possibly even listen to a program. Not many indoor malls are left, but Independence Center and Oak Park Mall have play areas and offer space to walk around. In addition to offering some sports activities, many local parks and recreation departments offer inexpensive gym classes or other indoor sporting options. For older kids, the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art and the Nerman Museum offer both educational enrichment and the chance to do some walking.

create personal space for your kids. Independence mom Kyndal Costello has taken into account her children’s unique personalities in providing ways for them to find entertainment inside. Her son has autism, and his space is all about providing him with sensory input. They started with a personal-sized trampoline, and they now even have a swing for his room. The family currently has plans to loft his bed to give him more room to play below. They also have decided to build a rock wall up to his bed instead of using a ladder. Costello’s daughter has a reading nook in a small space in their house. The cozy spot consists of a little decorated house in which she can sit, relax and read. Her personal space also includes chalkboards on the walls so she can write, draw and express creativity. “Our kids get to have their own spaces that reflect who they are,” Costello says.

Allison Gibeson is a mom and freelance writer from Lee’s Summit.

cook and create together. Develop a list of recipes to try with your kids and reserve them for a cold day. Cooking together can be a great opportunity to teach your children skills in the kitchen while keeping them entertained at the same time. Similarly, look up different ideas for art projects or perhaps even some good indoor science experiments you can do together. Keep all supplies on hand and ready to go when needed. If the roads are clear but it’s just too cold to go outside, here are a few other ideas:

make a crown center and union station visit. For a low-cost excursion, start out in Crown Center at Kaleidoscope for some crafting. Then walk over to Union Station and check out the free model train exhibit. Consider topping off the outing with riding the street car to the Kansas City Public Library to read some books. If your budget allows, Legoland Discovery Center, Sea Life Aquarium and Science City are always options at Crown Center and Union Station. kcparent.com january 2018

WINTER

fun guide!

let it

Snow... or not

creative ideas for snow days in kansas city

now is almost a guarantee in January in Kansas City, but the amount of snow, when it will come, how long it will last and the quality of “fun snow” varies. Children typically love snow days: no school, hot cocoa and sledding. For parents, things aren’t that simple. You don’t have to ask many parents before you discover a trend: Many have a love/hate relationship with snow. You can make the most of the winter and turn a snowy day into a family memory with these ideas.

HOST A SNOW PARTY Invite friends over for a casual day of fun. This can be as elaborate or as low-key as you like. Take a few of these ideas and make them your own.

host a “no snow” snow party:

After sledding or playing out in the cold, warm up with hot chocolate. For fun ways to fancy up your hot chocolate, head to KCParent.com.

50 50

kcparent.com kcparent.com january january 2018 2018

Are kids yearning for snow and yet none has fallen (or maybe just not enough to build Frosty or Olaf)? Then host a no-snow snow party! Serve snow-themed snacks. Cut flour tortillas with scissors as you would a paper snowflake, sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and bake until melted. Serve cauliflower and ranch dip as little snow hills. Make snowmen out of giant marshmallows with chocolate frosting eyes and buttons, or use white powdered donuts. Bake sugar cookies and decorate as snowflakes. Let the kids help brainstorm additional menu ideas using white foods. For fun, make fake snow. Simply mix 1 ¼ c. baking soda with ¼ cup of white conditioner. This will create a fun wet snow for tactile play. Older kids enjoy Minute to Win It games with miniature marshmallows. You’ll find a lot of ideas on Pinterest, but a few of our favorites include using toothpicks and mini marshmallows to build the tallest structure in under a minute, using chopsticks to pick up marshmallows and drop them into a bottle and using a straw to move marshmallows from one plate to another. Use giant white pom-poms or pillows for an indoor snowball fight.

host an old-fashioned sledding party: Do you happen to live near a great sled hill? Our family does, and every winter when we’re fortunate to have a good sledding snow, we invite friends over for an old-fashioned sled party. I like to make double batches of chili and soup and freeze half for future meals. If you have enough snow, make snow ice cream (recipe on KCParent.com). I serve up one of our favorites along with some sandwiches and cookies, then the kids spend the afternoon on the hills. Return home to cocoa and popcorn and toasty toes by the fire. If you have time, play a favorite board game or try one of the Minute to Win It ideas above. Tip: You’ll find a guide to the best local sled hills on KCParent.com

DIY SNOW PROJECTS One of our favorite ways to combat cabin fever is by turning winter blahs into opportunities for winter DIYs. Cultivate creativity with one of these snow-themed DIY opportunities at local businesses: • Ceramic Cafe (9510 Nall, Overland Park, KS, 913.383.0222, CereamicCafeKC.com) will be hosting a “Winter Wonderland “ week Jan. 15-21. Their Creative Story Time at 10:30 on Jan. 16 and 19 will feature The Biggest Snowman Ever, and kids will paint a snowman bowl ($12/child, reservations encouraged). The shop also will be offering classes all week for glass fusing, pottery painting and clay creations. Check their calendar to discover a chance to make a footprint snowman ($14) with little ones or try a kids clay class to make a snowman or snowflake plate ($18). Prices range from $10 to $35. • Thirsty Palette (11958 Roe Ave., Overland Park, KS, 913.669.0501, ThirstyPalette. com). If your creative juices are yearning for snow-themed fun without the mess at home, check Thirsty Palette’s calendar offering a variety of winter scenes. Teachers offer step-by-step instructions as you paint your own masterpiece. • Paint, Glaze & Fire (12683 Metcalf, Overland Park, 913.661.2529, PaintGlazeAndFire.net). This paint-yourown pottery studio allows you to select a piece (many snowmen in the collection)

to paint. Special events will include Paint Me a Story on Jan. 5 (10:30-11:30) with the story Sneezy the Snowman and Jan. 19 with Snowmen at Night. For a special snowman treat, children will enjoy hot chocolate with animal crackers. • Kaleidoscope (2500 Grand Blvd., Kansas City, MO, 816.274.8301, HallmarkKaleidoscope.com) in the Crown Center complex is a free and magical art center for kids, with seasonal projects including snowmen to inspire budding artists.

GET INTO THE SPIRIT WITH SNOW-THEMED FUN Take the family on an outing to enjoy the best of winter at one of these local attractions: • The Kansas City Zoo (6700 Zoo Dr., Kansas City, MO, 816.513.5700, KansasCityZoo. org) is open year-round, and favorite stops are the Polar Bear Passage and the Helzberg Penguin Plaza. Featuring a dozen Humboldt penguins and nearly 40 cold water penguins, the Helzberg Penguin Plaza is a state-of-theart exhibit with a 100,000-gallon cool pool for cold water penguins and a 25,000-gallon warm wet area laced with sand for warm water penguins. On weekends, watch as the penguins march from the back of the exhibit, outside for guests to see and then back inside the building, weather permitting. • Brave the cold and enjoy a horse-drawn sleigh ride (offered only on snowy weekends) at Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop (1200 Kansas City Rd., Olathe, KS, Mahaffie. org). Mahaffie is one of our favorite historic sites in the metro, with wonderful interpretive programs throughout the year. On snowy winter weekends, you may ride in an authentic 19th-century horse-drawn sleigh. Be sure to call ahead at 913.971.5111 to verify (this is a weather dependent activity). • Snowman Trail at George Owens Nature Park (1601 S. Speck Rd., Independence, MO, GeorgeOwensNaturePark.org) is a whimsical winter walk. Local citizens decorated 4-foot-tall snowmen for the annual winter solstice in December, and they are on display along the trail through the month of January.

GET ACTIVE WITH SNOW & ICE SPORTS Head to Weston for skiing and snowboarding at Snow Creek Ski Resort (816.640.2200, SkiSnowCreek.com). The facility offers snow skiing, snowboarding and snow tubing, as well as lessons for beginners. If you’re more into spectator sports, catch an ice hockey game in Independence as you cheer for the Missouri Mavericks (19100 E. Valley View Pkwy., Independence, MO, 816.252.7825, KCMavericks.com). Top off the winter family fun with a spin on the ice at one of these indoor or outdoor skating rinks:

Indoor Ice Skating Rinks:

• HCA Midwest Centerpoint Community

Ice 19100 E. Valley View Pkwy., Independence, MO, 816.795.7577, CenterpointCommunityIce.com • Kansas City Ice Center and Pavilion 19900 Johnson Dr., Shawnee, KS, 913.441.3033, KCIceCenter.com • Line Creek Community Center Ice Rink 5940 NW Waukomis Dr., Kansas City, MO, 816.513.0760, KCParks.org/places/line-creek

Outdoor Ice Skating Rinks:

• Crown Center Ice Terrace 2425 Grand

Blvd., Kansas City, MO, 816.274.8411, CrownCenter.com/IceTerrace Kansas City’s only outdoor skating rink is fun for the entire family! On Tuesdays after 5:00, pay one full price admission and receive a second for free. • The Ice at Park Place 11565 Ash St., Leawood, KS, 913.663.2070, ParkPlaceLeawood.com/special-offers/ice • Linden Square Ice Rink 602 NE 70th St., Gladstone, MO, 816.423.4092, LindenSquare.info/ice-rink • The Rink at Burlington Creek 6109 NW 63rd Ter., Kansas City, MO, 816.249.2600, BurlingtonCreek.com

Kristina Light loves snow and reminds her girls of the promise of Isaiah 1:18 every winter. kcparent.com january 2018

WINTER

fun guide!

J A N U A R Y 20 18 52

kcparent.com january 2018

31 DAYS OF FUN BY MARGARET SARVER

Don’t let the short days get you down! Below are fun ideas for every day in January.

Happy New Year! Play a new card or board game with the family.

Start a journal. Have each family member write down three things they are grateful for.

Take down decorations. Enlist the family’s help to take down all of the holiday decorations. Be sure to organize as you put away.

Make a hot cocoa bar. Make hot chocolate and let everyone add in extras. Ideas include marshmallows, whipped cream, candies and more.

Feed the birds! Spread nut butter on a pinecone and roll in bird seed. Attach yarn and hang from a tree.

3 Tell a joke. Challenge the family to each tell their best joke and then vote on the funniest.

Go swimming! Many rec and community centers have an indoor pool. Spend the day splashing and you’ll forget about the cold.

Visit a local library. Most have daily programs or special events. While there, find a new title to enjoy.

Go for a walk! It’s tempting to stay inside where it’s warm, but bundle up and take a stroll around the block

Enjoy a dance party! Take turns choosing songs and get up and dance along to the beat. Have a pizza night! Make your own at home or pick one up! Try one from a new restaurant and discover a new fave.

Write a note. Choose a few people like neighbors, teachers or friends and write them a note “just because.” It will brighten someone’s day.

Stay in your PJs. Clear the calendar and spend the day in jammies. Pop in a movie and spend a relaxing day with the family.

Get creative. Buy a canvas for everyone, get out some paints and let those creative juices flow.

Set up a yogurt bar. For a fun after-school snack idea, give kids a bowl of yogurt and set out toppings like granola, coconut, fruit and more.

Learn a magic trick. Have everyone learn one magic trick and then put on a show for each other.

Pop popcorn. It’s National Popcorn Day. Pop up a batch and get creative by adding toppings.

Volunteer at a food bank. There is always a need. Check out Harvesters.org for opportunities to help all year long.

Make a list. Summer will be here before we know it. Start your family’s summer bucket list and dream of warmer days.

Play a word game. Find a crossword puzzle or seek and find (or print one up) and solve as a family.

Have an indoor picnic. Spread out a blanket and pack yummy foods. Bonus: no insects!

Go on a neighborhood scavenger hunt. Make a list and head out to look for things like an icicle, smoke from a chimney, a bird, etc.

Explore someplace new. Find somewhere you haven’t been and check it out. Need inspiration? Visit KCGoingPlaces.com.

Have a snowball fight. No snow, no problem. Give everyone a box of tissues, wad them up and launch away! When finished, collect tissues to use as packing material.

De-clutter. Choose one junk drawer and dump it out. Ask kids to take what is theirs, keep what you need and pitch the rest.

Count change. Empty out the piggy bank or change drawer and add up how much you’ve saved. Take some of the change and get an ice cream treat.

Snack for dinner. My kids love a small bites meal. Make everyone’s favorite appetizers and create a fun dinner buffet.

Do a puzzle. Dust off a puzzle that you’ve been meaning to start and get everyone together for a puzzle night.

Give a compliment. Challenge each family member to give three compliments throughout the day. Discuss results at dinner.

Play family trivia. Have everyone write down five family trivia questions and then gather together for a trivia contest.

Grow a plant. Buy a pot, soil and some seeds and plant an indoor plant. Take turns watering and watch it grow!

kcparent.com january 2018

january

THE KCPARENT.COM CALENDAR FEATURES OVER 1,000 EVENTS EACH MONTH!

CALENDAR

Freedom Riders at Yardley Hall

No part of this calendar may be reproduced in print or web format.

kcparent.com january 2018

see

create

dine

learn

watch

Every weekend in January at 11:00 watch the King and Gentoo in the Penguin March at the Kansas City Zoo. See them as they march outside and back into the building. KansasCityZoo.org

Make a Block Calendar on Jan. 6 at Home Depot. Get organized for 2018 in a hands-on workshop where you assemble a wooden block calendar. Free. HomeDepot.com

Enjoy a meal out during KC Restaurant Week Jan. 12-21. Visit an old favorite or explore a newly opened restaurant. Specially priced menus. KCRestaurantWeek.com

Jan. 15 is a holiday for the kids, and while most schools are closed, Science City is open. Bring the kids for a day of learning while having fun UnionStation.org

On Jan. 25 see Freedom Riders at Yardley Hall. The play explores the valiant and courageous personalities in the history of the Civil Rights movement. JCCC.edu/theseries

1 Monday NEW YEAR’S DAY First Day Hike 10:00, Watkins Woolen Mill. Take a guided tour around Watkins Mill Lake Trail. MoStateParks.com Ice Skating Noon, Crown Center Ice Terrace. Spend the first day of 2018 skating with the family on Kansas City’s only outdoor rink. CrownCenter.com Plaza Lights Thru Jan 14, Country Club Plaza. The lights on the Plaza shine for just a couple of more weeks. Bring the family to experience the magic! CountryClubPlaza.com

2 Tuesday Open Jump 10:00, Urban Air Trampoline Park. Bring the kids to run, play and jump. Enjoy a little sweat with a lot of bounce! 913.298.0626 Toddle Time 9:00, Matt Ross Community Center. Open playtime with an array of toys, including blocks, balls and puzzles. $1-$2. 913.895.6350 Creative Story Time 10:30, Ceramic Café. Hear a story, create a pottery piece and enjoy a simple snack. $12. CeramicCafe.com

Winter Teen Bash 7:00, Olathe Community Center. Bring two canned food items for a free night of fun for teens in grades six to eight. OlatheKS.org

Festival of Lights Thru Jan 7, Powell Gardens. Botanically-themed lighting that stretches along a winding pathway through six gardens. PowellGardens.org

3 Wednesday

Teen Art Collective 4:00, Nelson-Atkins. Drop in and create! Guest artists and educators will help with projects. Supplies and a snack provided. Free. Nelson-Atkins.org

Amazing Eagles 10:00, Martha Lafite Thompson Nature Sanctuary. Learn all about those amazing eagles in this free nature program. NatureSanctuary.com Animal Tales 10:30, Ernie Miller Nature Center. A 30-minute program that includes stories, songs and a visit from an animal friend. $2. 913.764.7759 Open Gym Noon, Integrity Gymnastics. A great time to practice, get familiar with the gym and for kids to release energy. $6. IntegrityOP.com

4 Thursday Open Play 10:00, Jump City. Bring the kids to Jump City—where excitement and laughs are found daily! $8/child; parents are free. JumpCityKC.com Cubelets 2:00, MCPL (Lone Jack). Enjoy a variety of science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics-centered activities. Pre-reg at MyMCPL.org.

SIDS Training 6:00, KVC Pittsburg. Learn what can cause and how to reduce the risk of SIDS by following the proper sleeping procedures. Pre-reg at 620.238.6875.

5 Friday Snowman Trail Thru Jan 31, George Owens Nature Park. Walk the trail and see snowmen decorated by businesses and families. GeorgeOwensNaturePark.org Paint Me a Story 10:30, Paint, Glaze & Fire. Paint a pottery piece that goes along with a favorite story. Snack included. $13-$15. Pre-reg at 913.661.2529. First Fridays 5:00, Crossroads Arts District. Galleries and shops remain open the first Friday of each month. KCCrossroads.org

ENROLL NOW CLASSES FOR CHILDREN AGES 2-18

Photography: Brett Pruitt & East Market Studios

ENHANCE POISE, FOCUS AND RHYTHM WITH THE REGION’S MOST RESPECTED PROGRAM FOR ASPIRING DANCERS

BOLENDER CENTER 500 W. Pershing Kansas City, MO 64108 Union Station

Pershing

Nall Ave.

I-3 5

Broadway

TWO CONVENIENT LOCATIONS! 94th Terr.

JOHNSON COUNTY 5359 W. 94th Terr. Prairie Village, KS 66207

W. 95th St.

SPACE IS LIMITED — ENROLL TODAY! 816.931.2299 | KCBALLET.ORG/SCHOOL

DAYTIME & AFTERNOON ACADEMY PROGRAMS AVAILABLE kcparent.com january 2018

Ice Skating Daily, Crown Center Ice Terrace. Take a spin on the ice at Kansas City’s only public outdoor skating rink. 816.274.8411

Family Fun Night 5:00, Sylvester Powell, Jr Community Center. Fun includes a movie, open swimming, arts and crafts, indoor playground and more! 913.722.8200

6 Saturday Create a Block Calendar 9:00, Home Depot. Get organized for 2018 in a hands-on workshop where you assemble a wooden block calendar. Free. HomeDepot.com Penguin March Saturdays in Jan, Kansas City Zoo. Watch as the penguins march outside and back into the building. KansasCityZoo.org Eagle Days Today & tomorrow, Paradise Point Golf Course. Lakeside’s birds of prey are travelling to Smithville. For info and showtimes, visit NWK.usace.army.mil. Mother Nature Reads 10:00, Lakeside Nature Center. Hear a story, make a craft to take home and see a wildlife interpretation. Free. 816.513.8960

Bird in the Hand 10:00, Burr Oak Woods. Identify and track the birds that come to the feeders each winter. 816.228.3766 Raccoons and Opossums 10:00, Anita B Gorman Conservation Center. Learn about these nocturnal creatures and make an opossum craft. 816.759.7300 Hands-On History 11:00, National World War I Museum and Memorial. History is brought to life. Handle Great War artifacts. TheWorldWar.org Open Gym 12:30, Elite Gymnastics & Aquatics. Run, jump and play in the foam pit, rope swings and more. EliteGymSwim.com

Major League Improv 7:00, Comedy City. A comedy sporting event where everything is based on suggestions from the audience. $9-$13. 816.842.2744

Kansas Women’s Basketball 2:00, Allen Fieldhouse. The Jayhawks take on Baylor. Visit the Kid Zone for poster making, cookie decorating, inflatables and more. KUAthletics.com

7 Sunday

Saturday Night Feeder Saturdays, 2:00, Cedar Cove Feline Sanctuary. Watch the cats being fed, weather permitting. $6-$8. 816.739.0363

Daddy Daughter Dance Feb 9 & 10, Providence Community Church. Purchase tickets for this fun evening! Event will sell out! SovGraceKC.org/Dance

BOARD GAMES…

They’re Not Boring Anymore Board games are in vogue again. From new twists on classics to fresh role-playing games, the selection of games seems to be endless. But how do you know whether a new game is really worth the investment? These locally owned and operated game shops specialize in selling a variety of board games, card games and role-playing games and they all have game rooms where customers can try out something new. With informed and dedicated staff members, they help shoppers find the perfect game for their interests. Each of these shops hosts events throughout the year from theme nights, to family demonstration days, to tournaments, to adult-only events. This winter, introduce some new games to your family’s collection, courtesy of one of these local businesses, and make game night a tradition. 31ST Century Games and Hobbies 2113 E. 151st St., Olathe, KS, 913.397.7706, Facebook.com/31stCenturyGames Game Café 107 W. Lexington Ave., Independence, MO, 816.252.7529, PlayGameCafe.com The Geekery 12616 W. 62nd Ter., Ste. 117, Shawnee, KS, 913.261.9694, Geekery.us Level One Game Shop 400 Grand Blvd., Kansas City, MO, 816.800.9961, LevelOneGameShop.com Mission Board Games 5606 Johnson Dr., Mission, KS, 913.242.7970, MissionBoardGames.com Tabletop Game & Hobby 9156 Metcalf Ave., Overland Park, KS, 913.962.4263, TabletopGameAndHobby.com Pawn and Pint 613 Walnut Kansas City, MO, 816.701.9227, PawnAndPint.com

kcparent.com january 2018

Ice Skating Noon, Ice at Park Place. Enjoy ice skating with the family at Leawood’s only outdoor ice rink. ParkPlaceLeawood.com Free Afternoon Program 1:30, Prairie Park Nature Center. Free program for the family may include video, slide show and going outside to enjoy nature. LawrenceKS.org

KANSAS WOMEN’S BASKETBALL

8 Monday

vs BAYLOR

Moms Free Monday 9:30, Paradise Park. Moms are free at the Children’s EduTainment Center with a paid child’s admission. 816.246.5224

JANUARY 6 AT 2 PM Superhero Day

Toddle Time 10:00, Bonner Springs Community Center. Bring little ones 9 months through 5 years to play on the large assortment of toys. $2. BonnerSprings.org

$5 Admission to All Youth in Superhero Costumes

vs KANSAS STATE

Family Indexing Night 6:00, MCPL (Midwest Genealogy). Spend the evening indexing (gathering info) with your family! Pre-reg at MyMCPL.org.

JANUARY 28 AT 4 PM Dillon’s Sunflower Showdown

9 Tuesday

For complete game schedule and ticket information visit KUTICKETS.COM

Toddle Time 9:00, Matt Ross Community Center. Open playtime with an array of toys, including blocks, balls and puzzles. $1-$2. 913.895.6350

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Monday, January 29 Four Score and

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Music Explorations: A Jazz Journey

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Chocolate Milk Por Favor

www.FollyTheater.org 816.474.4444

913.782.3235 .com

to spread the word about your camp!

The Folly Kids’ Series is made possible through generous support from the Missouri Arts Council, ArtsKC, Oppenstein Brothers Foundation, Commerce Bank Trustee, Theater ROcKs, Theater League’s educational outreach program, R.A.Long Foundation, McDonnell Foundation, Hallmark Corporate Foundation, Sullivan Family Foundation, All Sponsors and Donors to the Folly Frolic Benefit Concert.

kcparent.com january 2018

Kansas Women’s Basketball Jan. 28, Allen Fieldhouse. Sunflower Showdown! The Jayhawks take on K-State. Visit the Kid Zone for poster making, cookie decorating, inflatables and more. KUAthletics.com

Ice Skating 10:00, Crown Center Ice Terrace. Take a spin on the ice at Kansas City’s only public outdoor skating rink. 816.274.8411 Creative Story Time 10:30, Ceramic Café. Hear a story, create a pottery piece and enjoy a simple snack. $12. CeramicCafe.com

Indoor Ultimate Frisbee League Thru Feb 28, Lenexa Community Center. Join the new Ultimate Frisbee league, for ages 9-13. Equipment provided. 913.477.7136

11 Thursday

Family Feast Day Pizza Shoppe. Get a single topping king pizza, two Shoppe house salads and an order of garlic cheese bread for only $19.99. PizzaShoppe.com

Nature Story Time 10:00 & 11:00, George Owens Nature Park. A nature-focused story time and craft for children. 816.325.7115

10 Wednesday

Toddler Tumbling 10:00, Kansas City North Community Center. Bring toddlers for fun exercise while allowing them to build motor skills. $4. 816.784.6100

Baby Bounce Story Time 9:30 & 10:30, Plaza Library. Stories and activities for the youngest set, ages newborn through 18 months. 816.701.3481 Open Gym Noon, Integrity Gymnastics. A great time to practice, get familiar with the gym and for kids to release energy. $6. IntegrityOP.com

Photo by Jeff Jacobsen / Kansas Athletics

Plaza Lights Thru Jan 14, Country Club Plaza. The lights on the Plaza shine for just a few more days. Bring the family to experience the magic! CountryClubPlaza.com

Get creative at the

Nerman Museum! Contemporary Creations classes (ages 8-11) and Early Explorations classes (ages 5-7) combine engaging, interactive tours with hands-on studio projects, and students explore different topics each week. Pre-registration is required. Saturdays, Jan. 20 – April 7 10 a.m.-noon or 2 p.m.-4 p.m. $15 / $10 for Museum Members Register through JCCC Continuing Education. Summer weekday class enrollment opens Feb. 1 913-469-2323 • www.nermanmusuem.org

kcparent.com january 2018

Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art Johnson County Community College

12 Friday Winter Jamboree 10:00, MCPL (North Independence). Shake off the cabin fever and join Mr Stinky Feet for a high-energy, interactive show. Pre-reg at MyMCPL.org. Fine Art Friday 1:00, Kemper Museum. Interactive experiences in the galleries encourage students to examine art. Includes tour with docent. Free. KemperArt.org

KC Restaurant Week Thru Jan 21, various restaurants. Enjoy an old favorite or explore a newly opened restaurant. Specially priced lunch and dinner menus. KCRestaurantWeek.com

Princess & the Pea Puppet Show 11:00 & 2:00, Puppetry Arts Institute. Enjoy a delightful live puppet show presenting the classic fairy tale. $6. Hazelle.org

Family Fun Night 5:30, Paint, Glaze and Fire. For $35 receive four studio fees, a pizza and soft drinks PLUS 15 percent off pottery. Pre-reg at 913.661.2529.

Free Crafts for Kids 11:00, Lakeshore Learning. Every Saturday Lakeshore Learning offers free crafts for kids. Materials supplied. LakeshoreLearning.com

Monster Jam Triple Threat Series Thru Sunday, Sprint Center. Adrenaline-charged, high-flying, four-wheel excitement. Save $5 with code KCParent. MonsterJam.com

Hands-On History 11:00, National World War I Museum and Memorial. History is brought to life. Handle Great War artifacts. TheWorldWar.org

13 Saturday

Track Clues 1:00, Burr Oak Woods. Take a hike to look for tracks and other clues to figure out what the wild animals are doing. 816.228.3766

Babysitter Safety Class 9:30, Olathe Medical Center. Learn infant and child care, along with home safety, first aid and more. Ages 11-15. $50. Pre-reg at OlatheHealth.org. Zootastik Learning Fest 10:00, Kansas City Zoo. Activities, demonstrations and crafts in the main lobby. Today’s theme: camels, goats, llamas and donkeys. KansasCityZoo.org Community Resource and Preschool Fair 10:00, Hilltop Learning Center. Learn about preschools and child-centered businesses. Free. 913.624.2900

14 Sunday Farmers Market 9:00, the City Market. The market is open year-round and offers a variety of fresh produce, meat, specialty groceries and more. TheCityMarket.org art + family = FUN 1:00, Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Join us every Saturday and Sunday for free activities for all ages! 816.751.1278 Family Series 2:00, Ernie Miller Nature Center. Bring the family on Sunday afternoons for entertainment and education. Today’s theme: birds of prey. $3. 913.764.7759

15 Monday

Second Saturdays 4:00, Downtown Weston. Stroll into unique gift shops and galleries for late-night shopping and in-store specials. WestonMO.com American Spiritual Ensemble 7:30, Folly Theater. The group presents spirituals but also performs classical music, jazz and Broadway. HJSeries.org

MARTIN LUTHER KING JR DAY MLK Day of Service 8:00, Harvesters. Each twohour shift includes sorting and repackaging food products and a service learning activity. Harvesters.org Science City Open 10:00, Science City. School’s out, and Science City is open! Bring the kids for a day of learning while having fun! UnionStation.org

Happy Year of the Dog!

Sunday, January 28 | 10 a.m.–4 p.m. | FREE Immerse yourself in the customs and culture of China and explore our world-renowned Asian art collection. Festival details at nelson-atkins.org kcparent.com january 2018

what’s your

JANUARY KC IQ?

test your local smarts with this quiz 1) Of the four species of penguin at the Kansas City Zoo, which is the smallest as a full-grown adult?

A) Gentoo

B) Humboldt C) King D) Rockhopper

6) What is America’s

2) What is average snowfall in KC in January?

A) 2.5 inches

B) 6.3 inches

C) 4.1 inches

D) 1.6 inches

favorite soup? A) Potato

3) Kansas was admitted to the Union as the 34th state

B) Vegetable

on Jan. 29 of what year? A) 1861

B) 1850

C) 1903

D) 1863

4) What is the location of

C) Tomato

Kansas City’s “Suicide Hill”sledding hill? A) 42nd & Wyandotte B) 73rd & Wornall C) 57th & Grand

D) Chicken Noodle

C) 75

D) 150

ANSWER KEY:

B) 100

1) D: R ockhopper is smallest with an average adult size of 41-46 cm, and 5–6 pounds

2) C: 4.1 inches

A) 200

3) A: 1861

4) C: 57th & Grand

by the average American annually?

5) B: 100

5) How many bowls of cereal are consumed

6) D: Chicken Noodle

D) 92nd & Antioch

Open Play 10:00, Jump City. Bring the kids to Jump City—where excitement and laughs are found daily! $8/child; parents are free. JumpCityKC.com

KC Restaurant Week Thru Jan 21, various restaurants. Enjoy an old favorite or explore a newly opened restaurant. Specially priced lunch and dinner menus. KCRestaurantWeek.com

Todd Mosby New Horizons Ensemble 8:00, Carlsen Center. Enjoy performance by Mosby, a seasoned jazz guitarist, arranger and more. JCCC.edu/theseries

16 Tuesday

19 Friday

21 Sunday

Free Admission 8:00, Overland Park Arboretum. Admission is free on Tuesdays! Bundle up and explore nature. OPABG.org

Junior Jaunts 10:15, Nelson-Atkins Museum. Bring your baby in a stroller or carrier and enjoy an adult-focused, baby-friendly mini museum tour. Nelson-Atkins.org

Farmers Market 9:00, the City Market. The market is open year-round and offers a variety of fresh produce, meat, specialty groceries and more. TheCityMarket.org

Paint Me a Story 10:30, Paint, Glaze & Fire. Paint a pottery piece that goes along with a favorite story. Snack included. $13-$15. Pre-reg at 913.661.2529.

Free Afternoon Program 1:30, Prairie Park Nature Center. Free program for the family may include video, slide show and going outside to enjoy nature. LawrenceKS.org

Third Friday Art Walk 5:30, Englewood Station Arts District. Tour the art galleries. View live performances and artists on the sidewalks in front of shops. EnglewoodStation.com

Family Series 2:00, Ernie Miller Nature Center. Bring the family on Sunday afternoons for entertainment and education. Today’s theme: birds of prey. $3. 913.764.7759

Pops Concert 8:00, Kauffman Center. The symphony presents musical favorites from Oklahoma!, Carousel, South Pacific and more. KCSymphony.org

22 Monday

Gym for Me 9:00, Lenexa Rec Center. Kids ages 5 and under play with push toys, riding toys, balls, inflatables and more. $2. Lenexa.com Tots on Tuesday 11:00, Kemper Museum. Bring in your preschooler for a fun and fashionable get-together every third Tuesday. 816.753.5784 Zamboni Birthday Party 6:30, Line Creek Community Center. Happy birthday, Frank Zamboni. Celebrate with a coloring contest, story, cupcakes and skating. 816.513.0760

17 Wednesday Playgroup at FBC 9:00, First Baptist Church of Shawnee. A safe place for kids to run and play and for parents to enjoy coffee and conversation. Free. 913.226.9438 Story Time 10:00, Johnson County Museum. Local story teller Jo Ho engages with entertaining and educational stories. Pre-reg at 913.831.3359. Snowman Trail Thru Jan 31, George Owens Nature Park. Walk the trail and see snowmen decorated by businesses and families. GeorgeOwensNaturePark.org Kansas Women’s Basketball 7:00, Allen Fieldhouse. The Jayhawks take on Texas Tech. Visit the Kid Zone for poster making, cookie decorating, inflatables and more. KUAthletics.com

18 Thursday Visit Sea Life 10:00, Sea Life Aquarium. Bring the kids to see the Doodle Reef, the touch pool, Stingray Bay and more! VisitSeaLife.com Nature Story Time 10:00 & 11:00, George Owens Nature Park. A nature-focused story time and craft for children. 816.325.7115 Toddler Tumbling 10:00, Kansas City North Community Center. Bring toddlers for fun exercise while allowing them to build motor skills. $4. 816.784.6100

20 Saturday Tropical Weekend Today & tomorrow, Kansas City Zoo. Animals in Discovery Barn, Tropics and Penguin Plaza will enjoy tropical enrichments. KansasCityZoo.org Early Explorations 10:00 & 2:00, Nerman Museum. Learn about lines and create an abstract drawing showing movement. Ages 5-7. Pre-reg at JCCC.edu/youth. Whooo Knows? Whooo Hoots 10:00, Anita B Gorman Discovery Center. Discover owls through hands-on activities and special live animal guests. 816.759.7300

Moms Free Monday 9:30, Paradise Park. Moms are free at the Children’s EduTainment Center with a paid child’s admission. 816.246.5224 Mother Goose Rhyme Time 10:00, Jo Co Library (Central Resource). Program includes songs, rhymes and finger plays for ages 12-24 months. Free. JoCoLibrary.org Toddle Time 10:00, Bonner Springs Community Center. Bring little ones 9 months through 5 years to play on the large assortment of toys. $2. BonnerSprings.org

23 Tuesday Gym for Me 9:00, Lenexa Rec Center. Kids ages 5 and under play with push toys, riding toys, balls, inflatables and more. $2. Lenexa.com

Sensory Science Saturday 10:00, the Sensory Table. Dig into sensory play through science experiments all kids will love! 913.912.2174

Toddle Time 9:00, Matt Ross Community Center. Open playtime with an array of toys, including blocks, balls and puzzles. $1-$2. 913.895.6350

Open Gym 12:30, Elite Gymnastics & Aquatics. Run, jump and play in the foam pit, rope swings and more. EliteGymSwim.com

Creative Story Time 10:30, Ceramic Café. Hear a story, create a pottery piece and enjoy a simple snack. $12. CeramicCafe.com

Saturday Night Feeder Saturdays, 2:00, Cedar Cove Feline Sanctuary. Watch the cats being fed, weather permitting. $6-$8. 816.739.0363

Two-For-One Tuesdays 5:00, Crown Center Ice Terrace. After 5:00, pay one full price admission and receive a second for free! CrownCenter.com

Wassail Celebration 5:00, Powell Gardens. Date night! This special dinner provides a history of the wassail tradition. PowellGardens.org

24 Wednesday

Major League Improv 7:00, Comedy City. A comedy sporting event where everything is based on suggestions from the audience. $9$13. 816.842.2744

The Secret of Courage 9:45, the Coterie. Based on the short story “Imaginary Friends,” this world premiere production is filled with magic and wonderment. Ages 11+. TheCoterie.org

kcparent.com january 2018

Chinese New Year Celebration Jan. 28, Nelson-Atkins Museum. Celebrate the Year of the Dog with activities, demonstrations, performances and more! Free. Nelson-Atkins.org

Open Jump 10:00, Urban Air Trampoline Park. Bring the kids to run, play and jump. Enjoy a little sweat with a lot of bounce! 913.298.0626 Open Gym Noon, Integrity Gymnastics. A great time to practice, get familiar with the gym and for kids to release energy. $6. IntegrityOP.com

25 Thursday Freedom Riders 10:00, Yardley Hall. Play explores the valiant and courageous personalities in the history of the Civil Rights movement. $6. JCCC.edu/theseries Toddler Tumbling 10:00, Kansas City North Community Center. Bring toddlers for fun exercise while allowing them to build motor skills. $4. 816.784.6100 The Art of the Brick Thru May 28, Union Station. Opening day! A captivating exhibition featuring works of art made exclusively from Lego bricks. UnionStation.org

Read to a Dog 6:30, MCPL (Liberty). Dogs available for 10-minute sessions to help children improve reading skills and build self-confidence. Pre-reg at MyMCPL.org.

26 Friday Daddy Daughter Dance Feb 9 & 10, Providence Community Church. Purchase tickets for this fun evening! Event will sell out! SovGraceKC.org/Dance Indoor Playground 9:30, Sylvester Powell Community Center. Developmental toys, inflatable and more for kids in a safe, clean indoor play area. 913.722.8200 Open Play 10:00, Jump City. Bring the kids to Jump City—where excitement and laughs are found daily! $8/child; parents are free. JumpCityKC.com

27 Saturday Kansas Polar Plunge & 5K 8:00, Schlitterbahn Waterpark. Brave souls raise money for Special Olympics by plunging into icy water. PlungeKS.org Species Spotlight 10:00, Kansas City Zoo. On the fourth Saturday, the zoo shines a spotlight on an amazing animal. Today’s animals: penguins. KansasCityZoo.org

five faves for kc comfort food Melt-in-Your-Mouth Mac ‘n Cheese Martin City Brewing Co. 500 E. 135th St., Kansas City, MO, 816.268.2222, MartinCityBrewingCompany.com This locally-owned pub is housed in a vintage building with a fun atmosphere. In addition to classic pub fare of burgers and fries, they serve a mean mac ‘n cheese. Offered in a variety of combinations, including a classic four-cheese mac that can be topped with bacon, steak or shrimp, their Cowboy Mac with a kick of jalapenos and barbecue sauce and Cajun shrimp mac ‘n cheese, this dish is the perfect winter comfort food.

Made-from-Scratch Soups Crafted with All-Natural Ingredients Happy Gillis 549 Gillis St., Kansas City, MO, 816.471.3663, HappyGillis.com Happy Gillis, in Old Columbus Park, was founded by Todd Schulte, who began his culinary career in the soup business. His expertise at creating delicious recipes with healthy all-natural ingredients makes Happy Gillis and his next-door business Uncommon

kcparent.com january 2018

chicken salad, are all served on the bakery’s signature bread with house-made fries or chips.

Homemade Pot Pie

Stock (a soup-to-go company) absolute musts on a KC soup tour. White bean soup and tomato soup are both super popular among reviewers, but at Happy Gillis—where the soup changes seasonally—you truly can’t go wrong!

Fresh Baked Breads and Hearty Sandwiches McLain’s Market 10695 Roe Ave., Overland Park, KS, 913. 242.8222 McLain’s Market is a sister store to the Kansas City classic McLain’s Bakery, bringing the tradition of the local bakery to Johnson County. The restaurant is chic and modern with a cozy atmosphere. Their breakfast menu offers an array of breakfast sandwiches, burritos and bowls. The lunch sandwiches, from the salmon burger to the

PotPie 904 Westport Rd., Kansas City, MO, 816.561.2702, KCPotPie.com On a cold winter’s day, nothing is quite as satisfying as a delicious homemade pot pie. Living up to the name, PotPie in Westport was featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives and sells the tastiest pot pie in town. Choose beef, chicken or mushroom varieties. For dessert, treat yourself to some of their chocolate chip bread pudding or berry cobbler.

Pasta, Pasta, Pasta! Cinzetti’s 7201 W. 91st St., Overland Park, KS, 913.642.0101, Cinzzettis.com Cinzetti’s is an experience. With more than a dozen exhibition cooking stations where chefs prepare Italian dishes, this restaurant lets you watch as food is prepared. The all-youcan-eat Italian feast is known for a wide variety of pasta, pizza and salad dishes. Wonderful baked goods tempt for dessert, including crepes and cannoli.

Contemporary Creations 10:00 & 2:00, Nerman Museum. Learn about patterns in art and then create a woven wire design. Ages 8-11. Pre-reg at JCCC.edu/youth. Meet the Animals of Kansas 10:00, Johnson County Museum. Learn about the Kansas flag and interact with hands-on items and live animals. $3-$5. 913.826.2787 Lovey Dovey Art Mart 10:00, Roeland Park Community Center. Artisans feature unique valentine options for everyone on your list. 913.826.3160 Mother Nature Reads 10:00, Lakeside Nature Center. Hear a story, make a craft to take home and see a wildlife interpretation. Free. 816.513.8960 Kansas Day 10:00, Overland Park Arboretum. Ditch the drab of winter with a party for Kansas. Enjoy storytelling, music, a history fair and more. OPKansas.org Valentine’s Day 1:00, Lanesfield School. Experience a traditional 1904 Valentine’s Day! Use pen and ink to write a note and create a puzzle purse. 913.715.2570

UNDERGROUND “Top 10 of the Decade!” - Paul Horsley, The Independent “Powerful, educational, INSPIRATIONAL!” - Laine Kent, audience Störling Dance Theater presents the story for our time. The Underground Railroad depicted like never before. Find hope for our times at UNDERGROUND!

Feb 16-17 2018 Kauffman Center Tickets & Information w w w. gounderground.org

Once Upon a Time

Daddy & Daughter Dance FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2018, 6-9 PM AND SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 5-8 PM PROVIDENCE COMMUNITY CHURCH 10113 LENEXA DRIVE, LENEXA, KS

WITH SPECIAL GUESTS

Cinderella & Belle Proceeds Will Benefit Global Missions and Forest Avenue Family Shelter

PRICE INCLUDES

JACK STACK & CHICK-FIL-A DINNER

PLUS A PROFESSIONAL PHOTO AND MORE

Register by Jan. 10th and take advantage of the early bird discount: $65 per couple ($15 for each additional daughter). Registration after Jan. 10th is $75 per couple/$20 each additional.

EVENT WILL SELL OUT H TICKETS MUST BE PURCHASED IN ADVANCE REGISTER AT WWW.SOVGRACEKC.ORG/DANCE kcparent.com january 2018

Story Time 1:30, Martha Lafite Thompson Nature Sanctuary. Listen to a naturalist share a tale about an animal and make a fun craft. 816.781.8598 All You Need is Dance 2:00, Rockhurst High School. Performance features Community School of the Arts dance students. KCYA.org. Saturday Night Feeder Saturdays, 2:00, Cedar Cove Feline Sanctuary. Watch the cats being fed, weather permitting. $6-$8. 816.739.0363 Deborah Brown Quintet 7:00, Carlsen Center. Born in Kansas City, Brown has musical talents that have propelled her from coast to coast in the United States. JCCC.edu/theseries

Kansas Women’s Basketball 4:00, Allen Fieldhouse. The Jayhawks take on K-State. Visit the Kid Zone for poster making, cookie decorating, inflatables and more. KUAthletics.com

29 Monday Snowman Trail Thru Jan 31, George Owens Nature Park. Walk the trail and see snowmen decorated by businesses and families. GeorgeOwensNaturePark.org Four Score and Seven Years Ago 9:45 & 11:30, Folly Theater. Lemuel and Jacob are on different sides of the Civil War with much to teach each other. FollyTheater.org

28 Sunday

Visit Sea Life 10:00, Sea Life Aquarium. Bring the kids to see the Doodle Reef, the touch pool, Stingray Bay and more! VisitSeaLife.com

Chinese New Year Celebration 10:00, NelsonAtkins Museum. Celebrate the Year of the Dog with activities, demonstrations, performances and more! Free. Nelson-Atkins.org

Open Jump 10:00, Urban Air Trampoline Park. Bring the kids to run, play and jump. Enjoy a little sweat with a lot of bounce! 913.298.0626

Family Series 2:00, Ernie Miller Nature Center. Bring the family on Sunday afternoons for entertainment and education. Today’s theme: Kansas symbols. $3. 913.764.7759

30 Tuesday The Secret of Courage 9:45 & 11:45, the Coterie. Based on the short story “Imaginary Friends,” this world premiere production is filled with magic and wonderment. Ages 11+. TheCoterie.org

Creative Story Time 10:30, Ceramic Café. Hear a story, create a pottery piece and enjoy a simple snack. $12. CeramicCafe.com Draw Like Picasso 3:30, MCPL (Edgerton). Learn about the famous Spanish painter and recreate a version of his painting. Ages 6+. Pre-reg at MyMCPL.org. Two-For-One Tuesdays 5:00, Crown Center Ice Terrace. After 5:00, pay one full price admission and receive a second for free! CrownCenter.com Family Feast Day Pizza Shoppe. Get a single topping king pizza, two Shoppe house salads and an order of garlic cheese bread for only $19.99. PizzaShoppe.com

31 Wednesday Daddy Daughter Dance Feb 9 & 10, Providence Community Church. Purchase tickets for this fun evening! Event will sell out! SovGraceKC.org/Dance Baby Bounce Story Time 9:30 & 10:30, Plaza Library. Stories and activities for the youngest set, ages newborn through 18 months. 816.701.3481

Our interactive virtual Hospital Labor & Delivery Guide has

HAVING A BABY SOON?

images, complete

Check out KC Parent’s Interactive Virtual Hospital Labor & Delivery Guide at KCParent.com

social media links

descriptions, video, and much more. SEARCH HOSPITALS BY: • LOCATION • NICU LEVEL • CLASSES OFFERED

kcparent.com january 2018

When the weather outside turns frightful... take the fun indoors!

Perfect for indoor settings...no blower needed to inflate the screens! SCHOOLS • CHURCHES • EVENTS • CORPORATE FUNCTIONS

Movies2U is great for: • A family movie night in the school gym • Video game play at the community center • Bundling up and watching the big game LOCALLY OWNED

Outdoor Cinema • Special Events

913.424.9444

•

Movies2U.com kcparent.com january 2018

Endless Variety, Matchless Talent!

OVER 25 PERFORMANCES â&#x20AC;¢ 2017-18 SEASON

Feb. 24

March 10

March 11

featuring Star Dust, a tribute to David Bowie and his music

with Abe Guthrie and Sarah Lee Guthrie

Performing a new work written by KC-born jazz guitarist, Pat Metheny, plus other classical guitar favorites.

Complexions Contemporary Ballet

Arlo Guthrie Re:Generation Tour

Los Angeles Guitar Quartet

Tickets on sale now! jccc.edu/CarlsenCenter | 913-469-4445 NO ONLINE FEES | FREE PARKING | WINE & BEER AVAILABLE

Explore

Kansas City Zoo

Join us for these cool events January 13 & 14 Zootastik Learning Festâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; Camels, Goats, llamas and Donkeys January 20 & 21 Tropical Weekend January 27 & 28 Species Spotlight on Penguins

KING & GENTOO

Penguin Mareeckhened s Every w at in January 11 am!

Always a New Adventure!

Open Year Round

Check online for more Zoomazing experiences!

kansascityzoo.org | 816.595.1234 | Open Daily The Kansas City Zoo, a private, non-profit organization is operated in agreement with the Kansas City, MO Board of Parks and Recreation Commissioners, partially funded by the Zoological District in Jackson and Clay Counties in MO, and is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.