KC Parent Magazine June 2017 by KC Parent Magazine

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life lessons learned from sports

40 free SUMMER FUN IDEAS

BUST OUT of a hyperactive lifestyle today

How Do You Know if Your Child Really

Needs Braces – Or Will Just Grow Out of It?

When you need to take care of it – or can it wait? To go to a dentist or an orthodontist? Are all orthodontists the same? To get Invisalign® or a lower cost alternative? Who can you trust for advice?

BurlesonSmile.com Authoritative information for parents of children, pre-teens and teens is available, free, and at no obligation, including downloadable free reports, online video, and more. In this era of social media, social media shaming and bullying, shocking numbers of pre-teen and teen suicides, and hyper-emphasis on personal appearance, crooked and mis-placed teeth and a smile he or she is embarrassed about and humiliated by can be a serious issue. Further, there are lifelong health ramifications of neglected or postponed, necessary teeth straightening. This is much more than just ‘cosmetics’. But how can you feel confident about the decisions you make, for your daughter or son? Please let us provide the information that directly and clearly answers your questions. Visit BurlesonSmile.com BEFORE you visit any dental or orthodontic office. Burleson Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry is committed to the highest standards of care, beginning with having fully informed parents and patients. Our doctors have worked with the prestigious Disney Institute and Ritz Carlton Leadership Center to bring the same “wow” experience to the smiles of your son or daughter. See why over 15,000 Kansas City moms trust Burleson to help their children smile with confidence. Call (816) 759-0119 today to reserve your comprehensive smile assessment and ask about our exclusive offers for readers of KC Parent Magazine.

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BUILD A BETTER WORLD

Library

Stop by any Johnson County Library to pick up your reading log and a free book (while supplies last.) We have a calendar full of fun summer events! Check our website jocolibrary.org/summerreading or call (913) 826-4600 for the Johnson County Library location nearest you.

SUMMER READING at Johnson County Library

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?

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kcparent.com june 2017

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JUNE

2017

DEPARTMENTS 10 Media Mix 11 Word from Dad 35 Healthy Kids 43 Craft Corner

SPOIL DAD ON HIS SPECIAL DAY, PG. 12

SPECIAL SECTIONS 20 Party Guide

FEATURES

28 Camp Guide 42 Summer Fun Guide 52 Calendar of Events

Tween â&#x20AC;&#x2122;Tudes:

Party Guide

Free Fun

What are they really saying?

Plan the perfect party with our party guide

Great ideas for FREE summer fun in KC

Our cover features Madeline from Shawnee. Cover and select interior photos by KiaBondurant.com. FREE | June 2017 | KCParent.com | Since 1985

10 ON THE COVER

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Bust Out of a Busy Lifestyle

Sports Life Lessons

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life lessons learned from sports

40 free SUMMER FUN IDEAS

BUST OUT of a hyperactive lifestyle today

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EDITOR’SLETTER JUNE 2017

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 Electronic 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 Contributing Writers

Kim Antisdel (Liberty), William Bartlett (Belton), Melissa Bellach (Overland Park), Allison Gibeson (Lee’s Summit), Lauren Greenlee (Olathe), Jessica Heine (Olathe), Christa Melnyk Hines (Kansas City), Karen Johnson (Olathe), Megan Kapple (Kansas City), Sara Keenan (Kansas City), Gina Klein (Kansas City), Kristina Light (Kansas City), Sarah Lyons (Olathe), Kerrie McLoughlin (Overland Park), Katie Newell (Shawnee), Maggie Uhl (Kansas City)

Mailing Address 11936 W. 119th #335, Overland Park, KS 66213 913.782.3238 phone • 913.681.5139 fax OUR PRODUCTS &

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APRIL-JUNE 2017 | KCPARENT.COM

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SUMMER FUN LIST FAIRS AND FESTIVALS

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CREATING A BIRTH PLAN tips for a smooth DELIVERY

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life lessons learned from sports

FUN IDEAS

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LOCAL CONTENT

G A Z I NE MA

Happy summer and happy Father’s Day, Kansas City!

Publisher Michael Gimotty Michael@KCParent.com

KC B A

t’s here! My most favorite month of the year! June, that delightful first full month without school obligations and the month farthest away from the start of the new school year. It brings tons of outdoor fun and lazy, hazy, summer days. Oh, if only we could have June all year long! I know—not everyone loves summer as much as I do (and there’s something wrong with those people…kidding, totally joking!), but you have to admit, the start of a new season is always a sweet time. What’s on your summer to-do list? Ours includes lots of time at the pool (we have a lifeguard in our home this year), lots of ice cream and so many concerts. To help you make the most of this summer, we’ve put together a list of 40 great ideas for summer fun in Kansas City that are FREE! We also focus on youth sports in June and have great tips on life lessons that kids can learn from athletics on pg. 38. In addition, we take time out to celebrate dads in June. My dad was one of a kind, and I miss him dearly. One of his sayings for which he was famous was, “This, too, shall pass.” I have found myself repeating that phrase frequently during my parenting journey. Be sure to shower all the dads in your life with love on their special day!

Margaret Sarver, Editor

Facebook.com/KansasCityParent Pinterest.com/KCParent @KCParent

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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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KCPARENTWEBSITE

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

SEARCH KCPARENT.COM FOR MORE AFFORDABLE SUMMER FUN IDEAS: 1. Coupons for Saving $$ at Local Attractions 2. Best of June in KC 3. KC’s Spraygrounds

4. Summer Reading Programs 5. Farmers Markets

SPOTLIGHT FESTIVALS

It’s festival season in Kansas City! From trendy boutique shopping to old-fashioned county fairs, ethnic festivals with delicious delicacies and local barbecue festivals... there is something for everyone! Visit KCParent.com for a complete list! 6. Free Summer Fun 7. Day Trips

FAMILY FAVES Who is your favorite doc? Where is your favorite place to let kids run and play? Log onto KCParent.com from June 12 to 30 and vote for your favorite KC businesses in KC Parent’s Family Faves contest!

8. Cool Summer Nights 9. Perfect Picnic Spots

10. Summer Movie Guide

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

kcparent.com june 2017

MEDIAMIX

explore new titles

kick off summer reading with new titles By McGeath Freeman

Argyle Fox By Marie Letourneau Best for: Ages 4-8 Argyle Fox loves to play outside. One fine spring day he heads outside to play cards, but the wind blows his house of cards down. So, he tries other outdoor activities: playing pirate, scary spider, soccer and more. Every time, the wind whooshes in and messes with his fun. Argyle is ready to give up, but Mama Fox encourages him to think what he might be able to play in the wind. Using some of his creativity and all his toys, he builds a kite and finds a way to play outside in the wind. Letourneau’s illustrations offer a wonderful balance between calming and engaging, offering a pleasing palette and plenty of detail. This is a good story for children who get frustrated by the weather or simply struggle to find something to do.

What’s good: Fun delivery of a good lesson on making the best of any situation.

What’s bad: Not much.

kcparent.com june 2017

By Caroline Star Rose

Mutant Mantis Lunch Ladies! (A Monstertown Mystery)

Best for: Ages 10-14

By Bruce Hale

Jasper and the Riddle of Riley’s Mine

Best for: Ages 8-12 It’s 1897 and gold has been discovered in the Yukon. The 16-year-old Mel and his younger brother, Jasper, escape their alcoholic father and head for Alaska, hoping to strike it rich. It’s not that easy, of course. Jasper stows away on a steamer to keep up with his brother. While aboard the ship, Jasper hears a rumor about One-Eyed Riley’s lost mine. If Jasper and Mel can solve the mysterious clues, they could stake claim to the mine and riches beyond their dreams. First, they have to survive villains and the Yukon wilderness. Full of mystery, danger and action, this tale will enthrall anyone who dreams of striking it rich.

How well do you know the people who work at your school? That’s a big question in this, the second book in the Monstertown Mystery series. We met our heroes Carlos and Benny in Curse of the Were-Hyena, and they are back to solve this action-packed mystery adventure. This Goosebumps-inspired story finds Carlos and Benny embroiled in a creepy mystery. Why are the lunch ladies so grumpy? And why would boys and girls have different meals? Are the sightings of overgrown bugs in the lunchroom real? Benny and Carlos aim to find out.

What’s good: Warm characters make it

What’s good: Fast-paced mystery with

easy to get invested emotionally.

plenty of humor.

What’s bad: A little too much

What’s bad: If you don’t like

melodrama-to-action ratio for younger readers.

Goosebumps, you likely won’t like Monstertown Mysteries.

WORDFROMDAD

ad stopped in the middle of the hiking trail with a twinkle in his eye. “Do you want to hear my crow call?” At that age, my dad could do everything, and I loved watching him produce wonder after wonder. “Sure.” He stood in the middle of the path, cleared his throat, waved his arms, cleared his throat again and lifted his chin. “Caw,” he said. He didn’t make a sound that remotely resembled a crow; he just spoke the word in normal speech. “Caw,” he said again. I’d been had once more. “Oh, Dad.” But before he could even laugh, we heard a crow call back. A real crow, guttural and raspy, returned his call. My jaw dropped and my eyes opened wide. “But…How…The…” He gave a gentle laugh. “Didn’t you believe me?” I did, of course, but his sense of humor had caught me on many occasions, and I thought this was yet another. The crow called again, and I shut my mouth.

CAW

At that age, my dad could do everything, and I loved watching him produce wonder after wonder.

Dad did that sort of thing many times when we were together. Whether it was a card trick, a joke, a prank or even just making the best of a bad situation, like giving boat rides in our flooded basement, he took and spread mirth whenever he could. And I followed in his footsteps. “Boys! How can you tell if a ghost is following you? Easy, just turn around and look. If you don’t see anything, then you know a ghost is right behind.” They didn’t even smile, but, considering their disability, that’s not unusual. Still, I persisted and each attempt filled me with joy. My dad taught me that laughter is sweeter than any dessert, and I am his son. I stopped on the trail. “Hey, guys. Have you ever heard my crow call?” William R. Bartlett lives in Belton with his family.

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kcparent.com june 2017

spoil

AD D on his special day

snacks and head for the nearest rural area where light pollution is low. If Dad loves astronomy, he’ll enjoy teaching the kids all he knows as you gaze into the night sky.

Check out the cars. If Dad loves cars, check out the local car clubs to find a nearby show of vintage hot-rods or the latest and greatest. Let him share stories about his experiences learning to drive, his first car, etc. Take him to a game. If Dad loves sports, purchase tickets for the family to watch his favorite team live in action. Check your local stadiums to see whether they offer Father’s Day discounts. Make him a custom gift basket. Whether the basket is big and elaborate or small and personal, purchase his favorite things and fill it up with love! Kids love helping pick out items to put inside. They also can make some things to help fill it. Some ideas include candy, nuts, jerky, his favorite beverage, gift certificates, tools, movies, games and a good flashlight.

Pamper him. Whip out the lotions and oils and let the kids give Dad a foot or back massage. Put cucumber slices over his eyes and spoil him with relaxation!

ather’s Day is right around the corner, and that means it’s time to celebrate our dads and all they do for us day in and day out. Dads are our everyday heroes, so it’s natural to want to spoil them rotten with gifts that keep on giving. If you’re in need of some fresh ideas on what you can do for the dad in your life this year, keep reading. This article is for you.

Secretly find out and then let the kids help you prepare it while he sleeps in. Don’t forget the coffee!

Go fishing. If he enjoys sitting out by the lake, have the gear ready to go and packed in the car ahead of time. Enjoy the day with fishing poles in hand and bring along a picnic lunch!

kids quiet and let Dad lounge in bed as long as he likes. As parents, we know that this is always a great gift.

Listen to music…live! Does he like live concerts? If so, plan to take him to one in your area on Father’s Day. Or, have the kids put on their own live concert for him in the backyard.

Bring him breakfast in bed. Do

Head for the stars. Pack up the car

Let Dad sleep in. Shhhhh. Keep the

you know what his favorite breakfast food is?

kcparent.com june 2017

with blankets, a telescope and midnight

Make him coupons. Let the kids help make personalized coupons for Dad that he can redeem throughout the year. Ideas include dinner at his favorite restaurant, a free driveway car wash, a movie night of his choosing, game night with the family (he chooses the games), a free foot massage, ice cream night, etc. Do all of his chores for the day. Mow the lawn, wash the car, take the trash out. Give him a break and do the things he normally does each day. He’ll love it!

Treat him to barbecue. Grill his favorite meat and fixings while he relaxes outdoors. Play Frisbee or catch with him after dinner. Get Dad in the kitchen. Does Dad love cooking or want to learn how? Sign up for a cooking class in your area and see what you can cook up!

Build something together. Whether it’s a birdhouse, a garden, an outdoor flower box or a rock wall, spend the day bonding with Dad being creative and constructive. This is a memory that’ll last a lifetime!

Go bowling or golfing. Whichever Dad likes most, do it. When the game is over, be sure to take him out for lunch, dinner and/or dessert. Visit a historic site. Is Dad a history

buff? Visit a history museum, war memorial

or another historic site in your area. Don’t forget to pack a picnic lunch!

Have a movie night. Order his favorite pizza for dinner and then whip up some popcorn for everyone to enjoy a family-friendly movie of Dad’s choosing.

Whatever you choose to do with Dad on Father’s Day, be sure to take pictures and really enjoy your time bonding. Sure, you can give him store-bought gifts, but the gift of time and togetherness is always the best gift of all. Together, you’ll be making memories that will last forever.

Go on an adventure. Take a hike, go on a helicopter ride around the city, take the train somewhere fun, visit a rock-climbing gym or an amusement park, play paintball or go camping. Have fun with Dad!

Kansas City mom and author Gina Klein loves thinking up and finding new ideas with her daughters to celebrate Father’s Day each year.

five cool father’s day gifts It seems like shopping for Father’s Day gets harder every year. Doesn’t it seem like he either has everything already or says there is nothing he wants? I sleuthed out five cool gifts that will make you and the kids stars this year. Check ‘em out!

MP3 player, keys, change, etc.) together. It has 12 built-in connections to make it work with more than 1,500 different electronic devices. There’s also a USB connection. All this means getting Dad organized and keeping his stuff charged!

JuiceBar MultiDevice Pocket Solar Charger

Cushioned SevenPiece Hand Tools Set

($49.99) Does Dad ever forget to charge his cell phone, and then it dies on him when he needs it? This handy little gadget solves that problem using indoor lighting or solar power (kinda James Bond-y, don’t you think?). It comes with a standard USB port so you can use your own charging cable. It’s also perfect for MP3 players and handheld games, so the whole family can borrow it.

The Sanctuary Power Charging Station and Desk Valet Combo (about $103) At only 9 inches by 9 inches, this little home for Dad’s devices makes it easy to keep everything (PDA, cell phone,

(starts at about $50) My dad and husband seem always to be working on car and home issues, and that’s where these tool sets (screwdrivers and nut drivers) come in. They have a cushion-grip for comfort and color-coded caps so Dad can find the right tool when he needs it. The cushion-grip also means the tool won’t be slipping out of Dad’s hands and causing him to cuss!

Pelican iPod Micro Case (about $32-34) No more cracked screens! Available in seven colors, this case is perfect for the dad on the go. It’s crushproof (so the kids won’t break it) and watertight (ever drop a phone or iPod in the toilet or accidentally take it in

the pool?). Hmmm, you might want to pick one up for yourself while you’re at it!

02 Hurricane Canless Air System ($99.95) One of these puppies is equal to 1,000 cans of that nasty, toxic canned air you buy to clean your computer keyboards and other stuff, like vents, car dashboards, blinds, plants and more. I know this product, which uses no chemicals or freezing and is eco-friendly, would help my husband (who likes things clean) keep his boat spiffy and keep his truck sparkling. He can (no pun intended) also fill up his air mattress when he goes camping. I’m betting the kiddos would have fun getting their hands on this, as well, and you might have the bonus of a clean house in no time while you sit around reading a book! Head to their website for the countless uses (Nail polish dryer? Who’s this present for anyway?) and buy early for Father’s Day!

Kerrie McLoughlin’s husband would be very happy if his five kids and wife got him all of these cool presents this year! Check them out at TheKerrieShow.com.

kcparent.com june 2017

hormones of the teen years approach, parents should help kids develop the good habits of frequent showering, proper face and hand washing and wearing deodorant.

BUDGETING AND SAVING The age of 10 is a great time to introduce basic budgeting skills. Kids can learn to select something they would like to purchase, then research the cost and begin saving for it. This helps teach them delayed gratification, the value of the dollar, the reward for hard work and also how to budget and save for things they want. This skill will be critical as they plan for larger purchases in adulthood.

PROBLEM SOLVING SKILLS

SKILLS TO KNOW BEFORE AGE 10

y the time your child turns 10, you should have started teaching him responsibilities, assigned him weekly chores and begun discussing whether he is old enough to stay home alone for a few minutes at a time. In the middle of their tween years, 10-year-olds are ready to begin taking on more responsibilities. What are some basic skills kids can learn before 10? Here are some ideas:

BASIC HOUSEHOLD TASKS Teach your child some basic household tasks. If you are busy, out of the house or under the weather, your child should be able to make himself a sandwich, pack a sack lunch for school and be able to prepare a small meal in the microwave. Teaching your kids how to do laundry, run the dishwasher and clean up a spill are good too.

SAFETY Keeping kids safe is a huge priority for parents. When our children are young, we begin to teach them how to cross the street safely, bike and use the road safely and to be aware of strangers. By 10, youngsters

kcparent.com june 2017

should go one step further by learning about internet safety and what to do in case of an emergency. “I want them to be safe mentally and physically,” says Lisa Parrish, mother of three. “They should know how to use the phone, procedures for being home alone or in emergencies, safe touch and that no means no.” Kids approaching 10 also should know basic first aid and when to call 911.

PROPER HYGIENE AND SELF-GROOMING Understanding the importance of good hygiene and how to take care of their own bodies and hair are appropriate skills for 10-year-olds to master. As the changing

When presented with a problem, children often look to the adults in their lives to solve it. Rather than giving your child the answer to the problem, why not let her try to work it out herself? Problem solving skills learned early will benefit kids as they grow older. You also can present your child with different scenarios and ask her what she would do: If you get lost, what should you do? What if you forget your lunch at home? What if you see another child getting teased? If there is a fire in the house, what should you do? Working through different scenarios and practicing problem solving skills will help your child build confidence for when she is faced with a problem.

VALUE OF HARD WORK Kids need to know the value of hard work, especially as they head off to college or into the workplace. Even middle and high school require a higher level of study habits. Developing good study habits also helps kids learn that their dedication pays off when they receive good grades because of it. To prepare your child for the workforce, assign chores that work toward a family goal, like putting in a garden for everyone to enjoy or saving up allowance to go toward a desired item or activity. Working and persisting through the process will show them the long-term payoff of hard work.

PROPER ETIQUETTE AND SPEAKING SKILLS A 10-year-old should know how to treat other people respectfully, approach adults

in public, have proper phone etiquette, know how to shake hands and express gratitude when someone gives him a gift or does something for him. Electronic communication is so encompassing, and we must teach our children that when having face-to-face conversations, being polite means using proper language rather than text speak.

CARING FOR OTHERS Kids learn a lot when given the responsibility of taking care of something or someone else. Examples could be a pet, garden or plants, or helping with younger children. These activities teach them responsibility and selflessness.

Summer break from school doesn’t mean kids’ development has to be on vacation, too. Summertime at the Y focuses on achievement, relationships and belonging — three important drivers of healthy youth development.

OUTDOOR SKILLS Kids this age can be taught outdoor safety. Fire safety, map and compass use, poison ivy identification and water safety are all good examples. Teaching them these skills encourages youngsters to find outdoor activities they enjoy. Again, we face competition with the screen, and teaching kids how to be safe when pursuing outdoor activities may open a love of the outdoors they have not yet experienced.

KansasCityYMCA.org/Camp

HEALTHY HABITS The importance of a healthy diet and routine exercise can never be learned too early. While kids may not be preparing entire meals at age 10, they do need to know that potato chips are not a well-balanced lunch. Kids also should be able to listen to their bodies so they can tell you when they are unwell and what is wrong. Healthy sleep habits and a good diet can help them perform better in school and improve their moods. Kids also should be able to manage their emotions and calm themselves when needed. These skills are a guideline, as every child and every family is unique. You may find that in your family, you value certain skills over others or that some of these were learned some time ago. “Be flexible with your plan to teach life skills,” says Laws. “Everyone learns at a different pace.”

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kcparent.com june 2017

what are they REALLY saying?

he great thing about the English language is that you and your children both speak it fluently. That is, until they turn into tweens. When she’s not quite a teen but certainly no longer a kid, a new barrage of hormones and uncertainty of life seemingly turn your angel into a brooding shadow of who she used to be. Along with emotional change comes a new language that rivals any German class you ever attempted to pass: tween speak. So how do you read between the very angst-filled lines and decipher what your tween means when she’s saying something completely different out loud? We’re here to help.

What they say: You wouldn’t understand!

What it means: I don’t want to explain it to you. Whatever problem your tween is experiencing, you’ve been through it. But to her, this one thing is the most complex problem on earth and will take forever to explain. How can you possibly understand the drama of her life when you don’t even know how to use Snapchat?

What to say back: Very little. Let her know that if she needs to talk, you’re there.

kcparent.com june 2017

Skip asking for details and convey that you’re happy to listen to an over-simplified version of the problem (e.g., she’s having trust issues with a friend). Don’t try to be the cool parent and explain how you once had the same problem. Sit back and wait; she eventually will come around for advice.

rule may be in order, so dig in to find out whether something deeper is occurring. Attend practices or rehearsals or call and speak to the coaches. If your child isn’t forthright, don’t just pull him from the activity; find out what’s going on and handle it accordingly.

What they say: I have a headache—I

What they say: I’m not a baby! You’re

can’t go.

ruining my life!!

What it means: Something has changed and it’s making me uncomfortable.

What they mean: I want to do more

Tweens commit to sports/instruments/ activities because it sounds cool or friends are doing it. Once the activities get underway, feelings can change. If you find your child suddenly feels ill for every single game or performance, something’s up. Perhaps someone on the soccer team is bullying your son or he just can’t handle the grueling workouts. Maybe your daughter thought dance would be amazing but she’s not catching on fast enough and is embarrassed.

Tweens are a walking contradiction. One minute they need you to take them to the bathroom and the next minute they’re ordering the filet mignon, medium rare. The hardest part is that tweens reserve the right to switch their neediness levels on you at any time. Some days a hormone surge has them feeling super confident, while other days they feel small and childlike.

What to say back: Not every activity is going to be a lifelong love for your kid. Do your due diligence up front and explain that if she signs up for something, she’s committed for the season or X amount of lessons. That said, exceptions to the

things on my own.

What to say back: Offer to increase your tween’s responsibility in the household in exchange for some freedoms she hasn’t been afforded in the past. If she’s mature enough to go to a movie without you, she’s old enough to start doing her own laundry or make dinner once a week. Tweenhood is a give-and-take, for both the parents and the child.

DO YOU SPEAK TWEEN? A fast and furious decoder of tween-isms:

CAN’T EVEN: Super-duper frustration. ON FLEEK/POINT: Someone/something is very well-groomed. Think eyebrows or toenails. YAS: A super dose of “yes.” F2F or FTF: Face to face SPAM ACCOUNT: A secret Instagram account where tweens post the “outtake pictures of themselves not looking on fleek.” Accounts are often reserved for very close friends and definitely not family. If you’re wondering if your children have one, we will spare you the suspense. They do. Also known as a “finsta” (fake Instagram account).

SUMMER EXPERIENCES FOR TEENS • Adventure Camp offers outdoor challenges and activities for ages 12-15. • Youth Volunteer Corps Summer of Service allows ages 11-18 to get hands-on experiences serving our community.

What they say: I hate this store! Please let me stay in the car!

What they mean: I might run into someone I know. Unscheduled stops are like a torpedo for tweens. Quickly running into the grocery store is small potatoes for you, but for him, the trip is fraught with danger. What if he sees the girl he’s crushing on and he’s smelly from basketball practice? What if his friends see him in the women’s sanitary items? I mean…mortifying.

What to say back: If you’re truly just running in quickly to grab something (ahem, a bottle of wine), consider giving in and letting your tween stay behind in the car. Of course, we all worry about child snatchers, so use your best judgment. If you do insist on making your tween come in, consider letting him wait up at the front registers for you—anything that puts a little distance between you (the coolness murderer) and your tween.

Kim Antisdel is a freelance writer and interior design sales rep for Kansas City. She lives in Liberty with her husband, two stepdaughters, son and small zoo of rescue animals.

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kcparent.com june 2017

how to get your kids to eat 10 VEGGIES A DAY

FOR MORE VEGGIE RECIPES, LOG ONTO KCPARENT.COM

f you’ve ever seen a professional presentation of a Vitamix (a bulky blender with a tractor motor inside), you may have been dazzled by the ease of whipping up a smoothie and delighted by its flavor. This machine can pulverize an entire apple into sweet goop in mere seconds. With very little effort you can toss an apple into the blender, add a carrot, some spinach and ice, then flip the power switch. In less than 30 seconds you’ll have a tasty drink. Cleanup is easy too—it takes less than a minute. I hadn’t heard of this machine until years ago a friend of mine was singing its praises at a cocktail party. The very next morning at brunch, I retold the story to my in-laws. Then I was truly shocked when my motherin-law said she had a Vitamix and hadn’t put it to use. Would I like it? I couldn’t have asked for a better coincidence. Over the years, we have used the machine so often that by now we have consumed many rooms full of veggies. I know for a sad fact that the only reason we have achieved this is because we drank the vegetables. I, in particular, am no veggie fan. Except for the amazing potato. I’ll never turn down a plate of hash browns or a pile of mashed potatoes. And I know my

kcparent.com june 2017

What really keeps me committed to gulping veggies is that I have felt the difference in my body.

way around the potato chip aisle like a pro. So while I have read loads of research on different nutrients and how they aid our bodies in myriad ways, my default is letting the scissors do a lot of my cooking. What really keeps me committed to gulping veggies is that I have felt the difference in my body, most notably in my hands. I am a massage therapist and, on top of that, I love to garden and write. Each of these endeavors needs strength and finesse from my hands. When I drink the “lawn mower mulch,” as my husband and I have

come to call our smoothies, my hands feel flexible and strong. When I don’t drink my vegetables, I notice my fingers feel tight, and there’s a slight ache in my knuckles if I make a fist. We didn’t arrive at this veggie depot with our children in one day. It’s been an evolution of their taste buds over the last couple of years. We started their smoothies with very mild tasting vegetables mixed with a higher amount of fruit. Now we put in everything but the kitchen sink! We still add at least one kind of fruit to sweeten the mix, but we don’t take the time to follow recipes. This great odyssey all began when my younger daughter had just turned 5. One evening we had a veggie showdown. I put three pieces of spinach on her plate and refused to give her anything else until those three miniscule leaves were eaten. She cried, I talked loudly and that went on while the spinach wilted on her plate. Finally, in her way of negotiating through our “meetings,” she said, “Just mix it up and I’ll drink it.” Hmmmm, I reasoned, someday she likely will eat a spinach leaf. But for now, to help her little developing body—built somewhat too much on chicken nuggets and mac and cheese—I am going to let her drink spinach. So that’s how we started.

At first, our girls drank smoothies every now and then. Within a matter of months, we progressed to always setting a small cup of smoothie in the middle of their plates before they could reach for anything else on the table. And now, for more than a year, they have drunk a good 10 ounces or more daily. Over the years, too, we have streamlined the process for ourselves. We dump in all the veggies and fruit and now add flax, chia, cinnamon and turmeric. In under a minute, the powerful motor can blend an enormous amount of roughage. Then we pour the smoothies out into mason jars. We top the jars with the plastic lids we bought after the tin ones rusted from our improper (lazy) dishwasher route of cleaning them. We then put the jars in the fridge and take the 30 seconds to set them on the kids’ plates at dinnertime. The result? MY KIDS EAT VEGGIES! They eat spinach, kale, romaine, arugula, various other greens from my garden, tomatoes, edamame, eggplant, mushrooms, zucchini, celery, carrots, broccoli, cauliflower, squash, sweet potatoes, parsley, ginger, with spoonfuls of flax and chia and dashes of turmeric and cinnamon. Here’s the walloping corker: They eat this every day and they don’t complain! The amazing latest development in our journey is that our younger daughter has been known to drink two smoothies a day, of her own volition. This is the daughter who refused to eat three spinach leaves in the beginning of this journey. We have not let perfect be the enemy of good. Our diet and smoothie system is in no way perfect. But I’m grateful for every bit of good in our children’s developing bodies. I’m super delighted their brains are no longer shaped exactly like a chicken nugget. Now I’m pretty sure their brains also have healthy grooves and ridges along them like newly planted rows in a garden.

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Maggie Uhl lives in Waldo with her sweet husband and two funny daughters and her dog named Leo (who eats his veggies too. He’ll dance for a carrot and loves cooked squash with a hint of cinnamon.). kcparent.com june 2017

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. 24. www.JumpCityKC.com

party

KC Parent’s

guide

• fresh ideas • terrific themes • great venues

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! Addon 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. 25.

Movies2U

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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 hassle-free 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. 24. www.TagMe.net

Look like a party planning superstar to your guests! Let Fun Services help you put together a once-in-a-lifetime event that everyone will remember for years to come. From inflatables to carnival games to concessions to entertainers, we’ve got everything you need to have a successful party. Call us today to help plan your party. 913.441.9200. See display ad on pg. 25. FunServicesMidwest.com

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. 34.

Transform your backyard into a cinema and celebrate that special occasion with a movie under the stars! Round up the kids to watch their favorite movie on one of our larger than life inflatable screens. Throw 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. 21. www.Movies2U.com.

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Paint, Glaze & Fire Ceramics & Coffee House

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. 24. www.GymboreeClasses.com

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, bridal showers or “just because.” Only at 127th and Metcalf, 913.661.CLAY (2529). See display ad on pg. 54. www.PaintGlazeAndFire.net

continued on page 24

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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

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Simple but Terrific birthday parties

ful

meaning a in d il h te your c a r b le e anner c m s s e r t s How to and low

he vision Jessie Roberts’ daughter had for her own third birthday party was quite reasonable. Cake, balloons and party hats were all the preschooler requested. Certainly, that was a request easy enough to grant. Roberts, a mom from Independence, had just had her second baby weeks before the party, so it was a relief to her that her daughter was choosing simplicity. Roberts’ daughter is now 6, and her most recent birthday parties have continued to be low-stress and lots of fun. Last year the party was a picnic in a meadow—the adults chatted, the kids ran around, guests flew kites and everyone had a good time. “All kids really want is to be surrounded by people they love and be the center of attention for the day,” Roberts says. How does one make a child’s birthday party memorable without the stress? Keep these tips in mind:

Remember whom the party is celebrating. Typically, before they reach school age, children do not remember too much long-term. Given that, the details of a party for a preschooler do not have

kcparent.com june 2017

to be elaborate. For a Frozen party, simply incorporating white and blue in the decorating, having the birthday girl dress up as Anna or Elsa and playing “pin-the-carrot-nose-on-the-Olaf ” is likely enough to enforce the theme. For older children, consider their personality. Does your child truly enjoy big parties with lots of people? Or would your child rather invite a couple friends for a bigger activity, such as spending a night at Great Wolf Lodge? “It’s their party—let them have the party they want,” says Traci Kinerk with Designer Events KC. “Let it actually be their party.”

It’s never too early to start planning. “Everything takes 10 times longer than you think it ought to,” Kinerk says. Given this, she recommends giving yourself plenty of time to work out the details. If you have an elaborate vision for the party, she advises considering how much work will be required to actually execute the idea. People often enlist the help of family and friends to carry out their vision for a party, taking advantage of their willingness to help.

So if you want detailed decorations for the party, give yourself several months to slowly work on making and planning the decorations during your free time.

Don’t stress about the food. Kids simply don’t care about the food other than the cake, according to Kinerk. Instead, they care more about decorations and activities. So, she says, going to Sam’s Club and getting an inexpensive pizza is fine.

Remember, children have vivid imaginations. Young children can pretend almost anything is something else related to an interesting theme. “Kids parties don’t have to be visually that believable, because kids have all kinds of imagination,” Kinerk says. For example, if you are having a pirate-themed party and serving peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, cut the sandwiches in triangle shapes, connect a couple pieces with toothpicks and pretend they are ships sailing the sea for treasure. With some creative thinking, simple food and decorations have endless possibilities.

Keep the activities engaging and hands-on. Children most remember the games they play and the things their hands make. Have a few different types of crafts and activities so every child at the party finds a favorite.

There are ways to solve the “everyone-has-a-birthday-thismonth” problem. Lee’s Summit mom Bree Raymond is expecting her fourth child, and five out of six of her family members will have birthdays within 45 days of each other. To simplify the birthday overload, they invite their families to come out once to celebrate all the birthdays with a big backyard party. Bounce houses and water balloon fights have been the center of entertainment in the past. Each child picks out his own cake at Costco, and everyone sings “Happy Birthday” to each child individually.

Skip the traditional party favors. Often these small toys and items aren’t truly appreciated once they get home. Consider using the money you would have spent on the favors to add another fun activity during the party.

Birthday party decorating ideas Traci Kinerk with Designer Events KC recommends the following party decorating tips: • Pick a theme based on your child’s interests and center everything—including the food— on that theme. • Balloons are a great inexpensive way to add color. • Everything takes longer than it seems it should. • Tissue paper and plastic tablecloths are cheap and easy decorating materials. • Decorations can double as party favors. This saves you from having to buy traditional party favors and helps with cleanup, as guests take away the decorations. Allison Gibeson is a Lee’s Summit mom who enjoys planning fun, low-key backyard birthday parties for her son.

“With som e crea decoration tive thinking, simpl e s have end less possib food and ilities.” Birthday Planning Books The Birthday Party Planning Guide: How to Quickly and Easily Plan Your Child’s Perfect Birthday Party and Create Memories That Will Last a Lifetime By Pete Gradowski Planning your child’s next party can be fun and easy…but only if you have the right plan. And that’s exactly what this book gives you. You’ll learn how to create an unforgettable theme that will capture your child’s heart and leave a lasting memory for the rest of his life, tips on hiring outside entertainment to create a memorable experience for you, your child and your guests, as well as pitfalls to avoid and more. Planning Children’s Birthday Parties: Libby and Penny’s Survival Guide By Libby Worsley Crouch and Penny Barlow Liston A common-sense reference book written by educators and filled with information for the successful implementation of the first birthday celebration through grade school parties. What sets this book apart from other parent resource books is the attention given to details such as a well-planned timeline based on the activity level and ages of the children, developmentally appropriate activities and guidelines for what to do with the children from the moment they arrive at the party until the party ends.

kcparent.com june 2017

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Princess at My Party Have your child’s favorite princess come to her birthday party! Choose from Elsa, Anna, Ariel, Belle, Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty 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. 816.830.4841. See display ad on pg. 24. www.PrincessAtMyParty.com

Paradise Park Kansas City’s premier party destination offers an incredible experience for the birthday child and easy, hassle-free party for mom and dad. We take care of it all! Choose from five award-winning party packages. Visit www.Paradise-Park.com for online booking. 816.246.5224. See display ad on pg. 25 for coupons.

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kcparent.com june 2017

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. 21. www.UrbanAirOP.com

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Wings of Love Bird Shows Unique entertainment for all ages. Beautiful birds who talk, sing and even do tricks (they can ride a bicycle, play basketball, etc.), is wholesome entertainment, extremely enjoyable and fun. Several programs to choose from with very reasonable rates. Great for schools, VBS, Scouts, retirement homes, BIRDDAY parties, corp. events; we can tie into your theme. See display ad on pg. 19. 816.540.4730. www.WingsOfLoveInc.org

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OPEN DAILY kansascityzoo.org 816.595.1234 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. kcparent.com june 2017

For 5-minute refreshers for Mom, visit KCParent.com

“Wanting to please, wanting to be everything to everybody, women just keep extending themselves, until their minds and bodies cannot cope.”

kcparent.com june 2017

how to

Mindfully bust out of a hyperactive lifestyle

s the chief director of your family’s universe, you’re the pulse-point of the home. But if that means you’re struggling under the mantle of an unforgiving schedule, now is the time to reevaluate. Your health and the overall wellbeing of your family depend on it. According to an annual survey called “Stress in America” conducted by the American Psychological Association (APA), adult stress levels are the highest that they’ve been in a decade. And women report higher levels of stress than men. “Wanting to please, wanting to be everything to everybody, women just keep extending themselves, until their minds and bodies cannot cope,” says Rosalie Moscoe, RHN, RNCP, author of Frazzled Hurried Woman! Your Stress Relief Guide to Thriving.

health issues.

exercise.

remember to breathe.

Stress is the body’s way of coping with what it perceives as a dangerous situation. When our body switches on the “fight or flight” survival mechanism, a mix of hormones, including adrenaline, norepinephrine and cortisol, flow into the body. We become hyper-focused, our heart and breathing rates increase and we feel a boost of energy. Chronic stress, however, can contribute to health problems like heart disease and hypertension. It can lengthen the recovery time from illness and fuel other long-term health problems, like obesity, irritable bowel syndrome, high blood pressure, insomnia, headaches, depression and even infertility. “High levels of circulating stress hormones can impair adrenal function, resulting in brain fog, lethargy and the dreaded ‘pregnant belly,’ even if you are not with child,” says Elle Griffin, a natural fertility expert and feminine vitality coach. “Some women even start losing their hair.”

Expending energy helps boost energy. Carve out 15 to 30 minutes a day for exercise like biking, yoga, running or walking with a friend. Just don’t put more pressure on yourself by forcing yourself to complete grueling daily workouts. Griffin warns that overtaxing an already stressed body with too much strenuous exercise can increase the stress hormone cortisol.

For a quick relaxation response in a moment of stress, take a deep slow breath. Inhale and hold it. Then exhale the breath twice as long as you inhale. Do this a few times.

evaluate and prioritize. Make a list of everything you do. Decide which items can be eliminated, pared down or delegated to others. Can you organize a carpool with another parent? Can you limit your kids’ activities to one per season? Are there volunteer activities that you no longer find meaningful? Can your kids fold and put away laundry? “Dissect one of your most stressful commitments,” Moscoe says. “Your own thoughts and feelings about what is expected of you will determine how much stress you will feel. If you have elder care, get your teenage kids or other family members to visit your folks and do errands. It doesn’t have to be you all of the time.” Even hiring a cleaning company to come in every other week can lighten the burden of overwhelming housework.

practice saying no. Once you’ve created some space on your calendar, avoid the temptation to add any new commitments to your schedule. If you’re asked to do something that doesn’t match your priorities or interests, say, “I’m unable to do that right now, but thank you for thinking of me.”

plan meals ahead of time. To avoid fast-food runs during hectic weeks, on Saturday or Sunday plan out the coming week’s menu according to what’s happening each day. Choose meals that are simple to make but nutritious. When you head to the grocery store, purchase all of the ingredients you’ll need for each meal to avoid last-minute trips on a busy weeknight. Prep ingredients ahead of time if you can and work the crockpot. Also check out meal kit delivery and grocery store delivery services, which can help you save time during hectic weeks.

avoid draining personalities. People who constantly complain, gossip or act victimized can sap your energy. Instead, focus on surrounding yourself with people who inspire you. If you’re someone who has a habit of focusing on the negative, try adopting a gratitude practice. By growing more aware of the good things in life, you can view the world as a less hostile, stressful place.

pursue pleasure. Above all, integrate activities into your day that bring you personal joy. Take at least 10 to 15 minutes a day for self-care. Read a book, make a collage, paint your nails or take a bubble bath. Indulge in a cupcake. Schedule a moms night out with some girlfriends or a date night with your spouse. By taking a more mindful approach to how you spend your time, you can begin more joyfully engaging with the world on your terms. And when you take time to nourish your body, mind and spirit, not only will you flourish, your family will too.

Christa Melnyk Hines is a freelance journalist and author of Confidently Connected: A Mom’s Guide to a Satisfying Social Life, a resource for moms seeking a more balanced social life that supports their emotional health.

simple ways to unwind Color, paint or draw.

take a digital detox.

Get lost in a page-turner novel.

Social media can suck up vast chunks of time and add to your stress. According to the APA, individuals who constantly check their email, texts and social media accounts experience more stress. If you’re having trouble signing off, try taking a “digital Sabbath,” or a 24-hour break once a week to unplug from your email and social media accounts. “Taking a digital detox is one of the most helpful ways to manage stress related to technology use,” says Lynn Bufka, PhD, APA’s associate executive director for practice research and policy. To help you get better, more relaxed rest, before bedtime turn off screens, put away your phone and limit your exposure to news.

Nap. Play a game with your kids. Meditate for one to five minutes. Watch a funny sitcom or movie. Listen to your favorite music. Walk outside. Garden.

free relaxation apps Calm Omvana Headspace Relax Melodies Take a Break

kcparent.com june 2017

Special Advertising Section

Interactive Education Guide available at KCParent.com

“Jungle Book Kids” (ages 6-11), Jazz (instrumental) Camp, Painting, Sculpture, Drawing, Disney Revue, Broadway Hits, Songs from Matilda, Songs from Moana, Perfectly Princess, Force Wars, Lion King Revue, Itty Bitty Ballerina, Hip Hop, Jazz, Ballet, Tap & more! Openings limited! See display ad on pg. 29. 913.393.3141. Enroll online: www.CultureHouse.com

KC Parent’s

Camp Guide

Camp Wood YMCA

Several one day Mini Camps and a “Kids

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Trusted by KC families for 100 years, our

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more. Specialty camps like Skateboarding,

Kansas City Ballet Kansas City Ballet School Summer Programs include once-a-week classes and four-day ballet camps for children ages 2-7. Camp themes include Beauty and the Beast and Island Adventures. Additional courses and workshops available for ages 8-18. Classes begin June 5th. Enroll today to guarantee your child’s spot. Two convenient locations: Downtown and Johnson County. See display ad on pg. 30. For more

are also available. Our ACA-accredited

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Maple Woods). Half-day and full-day camps

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skills. Performance Camps include Shrek the

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games, and crafts. Topics vary each week.

Paintball, Leadership and Equestrian Camps

techniques including hand building

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more than once. Aspiring Artists sessions

professionally trained adults. “Footloose”

run for 4 days and are for ages 8 and up.

(ages 13-19), “Madagascar” (ages 9-13),

kcparent.com june 2017

continued on page 32

SUMMER CAMPS HURRY! ONLY A FEW SPOTS LEFT. ENROLL TODAY!

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Try a MUSIC OF MOANA or SONGS FROM LION KING musical theatre camp. Little ones will love our ITTY BITTY BALLERINA dance camp while older kids can perform in the BROADWAY song & dance revue! Have an artist? Enroll them in an ART, SCULPTURE or MIXED MEDIA camp. To enroll in these workshops and so many more, visit CULTUREHOUSE.COM

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CAMPGUIDE

last-minute tips

before heading off to day camp child off to day camp this summer, here are a few things to keep in mind to help make day camp a success!

Fill ’er up. Be sure to send plenty of water. Looking back at the four years I volunteered at camp, I realized that the record high temps for those summers occurred while we had day camp. It’s going to be hot, your camper is going to be active, and water is a key component to keeping your kiddo happy and healthy throughout the day.

une is here, and that means many KC kids will be heading out to day camp. I am not a camper by nature. But as leader of my daughters’ Girl Scout troops, I felt an obligation to be a day camp leader for several years. And while I can’t say it was the most enjoyable experience ever, I did learn a few things. Before sending your

Freeze a towel. Find a golf towel or something of a similar size. Wet it, wring it out, fold it, place it in a zip-close baggie and place in the freezer. The next morning, place it in your camper’s lunch. By midday, the towel will have thawed just enough that your camper can place it around his neck. It’s built-in air-conditioning that really helps when the temps soar.

Dress them right. I was always a bit taken aback by what some kids wore to camp. Campers need to be dressed to spend the day outside, prepared to do a lot of walking. That means ONLY closed-toe shoes, preferably tennis shoes, shirts with sleeves and longer shorts. Leave the cute sandals and tank tops at home and don’t wear anything new. Chances are very good you may want to trash some of the clothes after camp ends. Pack a snack. Send an extra snack with lunch. Kids are famished at the end of the day, and a small snack on the bus ride home can help ward off the grumps at pickup time. Also be sure the lunch you send is substantial, because campers work up big appetites. Spray all over. Coat them in the morning with sunscreen and bug repellent and then send it with them so they can

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vering reapply throughout the day. Nothing ruins a week at camp faster than a lack of sunscreen on the first day. And there will be bugs. Lots of them. Do a tick check each night after camp. True story: I was in the outhouse with a child who commented, “Look at that big ant!” to ACE THE NEXT REPORT CARD WITH SYLVAN which I replied, “That’s not an ant. That’s a really big tick.”

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Send some Tylenol. This tip is not for the campers, but for the leaders and directors and any other parents helping out at camp. I promise, this will come in handy when the bus (which is not air conditioned) breaks down on the highway (on the way home, during the heat of the day) and you have to wait an hour for another bus to come pick everyone up. What do you do for that hour? Why, sing more camp songs of course! Keep smiling and keep telling yourself you are making memories with your child.

Lenexa mom Margaret Sarver is not sorry that her days as day camp leader have come to a close.

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kcparent.com june 2017

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For over 100 years, Kansas City families have trusted Camp Wood YMCA for summer camps that are more than just fun. At Y camp, children of all ages learn new skills, build character and make friends. Whether your child loves skateboarding, drama or horseback riding, we offer ACA-accredited camps for all interests and for all kids. Choose your adventure at campwood.org.

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This summer, imaginations take ffl light.

Now Enrolling! Experience the excitement of our Summer Adventure Club where imaginations are free to run wild. Get ready for engineering design challenges, discoveries, outdoor exploration and more. It’s going to be one epic summer. Fun for ages 5 – 10.* Learn more at PrimroseSummer.com. Flexible Schedules • Exciting Adventures Space is Limited – Call Today! Primrose School of North Olathe PrimroseNorthOlathe.com • 913.764.0018 Each Primrose School is a privately owned and operated franchise. Primrose Schools is a trademark of Primrose School Franchising Company. ©2017 Primrose School Franchising Company. All rights reserved. *Ages for Summer Adventure Club programs vary by location.

kcparent.com june 2017

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HEALTHYKIDS

five things you didn’t know about allergies Eyes itch and noses run—allergy season is here. Most people understand the benefits of taking allergy medication or receiving allergy shots, but many prefer to take a more natural approach. Here are five natural things you can incorporate into your life to find a little allergy symptom relief. Take vitamin C. This is a critical supplement for allergies. Vitamin C is a natural, powerful antihistamine that does not have any side effects. When your body comes in contact with an allergen, your immune system releases histamines, chemicals that stimulate things like a runny nose, tearing of the eyes and excessive mucous. These uncomfortable symptoms are your body’s attempt to flush out the allergen. Over-the-counter antihistamines work by interfering with the histamine that already has been produced by the body. Vitamin C prevents the formation of the histamine, which helps to normalize the immune responses. Talk with your doctor about proper dosage amounts, but the recommended intake is one gram, three to five times a day depending on what your bowels can handle (Alive.com/health). Savor local honey. The jury is still out on a definitive answer, but many people believe that honey specific to your area can help decrease allergens. When people eat local honey, they are ingesting pollen that is specific to their location. Over time, this may make people less sensitive to the pollen and could lessen their allergy symptoms, according to Healthline.com. This is the same theory behind allergy shots. However, allergy shots actually have been proven to have some benefits, and studies are inconclusive regarding whether local honey has any real benefits.

Change clothes after being outside. Changing clothes after you’ve spent time outdoors is common sense. This way, the

When your body comes in contact with an allergen, your immune system releases histamines, chemicals that stimulate things like a runny nose, tearing of the eyes and excessive mucous.

pollen, grass and any other allergens won’t continue to hang around. If your allergies are severe enough, consider showering right after spending time outside as well.

Avoid prime pollen time. Pollen counts are highest in the morning, between 5:00 and 10:00, according to Parents. com. Staying indoors during this time can reduce your exposure, which can reduce your symptoms.

Try a Neti pot. If you find yourself suffering from allergies, one way to help alleviate the symptoms without medication is to use a Neti pot. Using one may appear difficult, but the process actually is quite easy and very effective at relieving stuffedup sinuses, loosening mucous and flushing

out allergens. Neti pots can be found in any pharmacy. Fill the pot with a mixture of salt and warm distilled, sterile or previously boiled water (pre-measured kits are also available), tilt your head to the side and pour the solution into the nostril that is on top until it flows through the other nostril. Repeat on the other side (Health.com). In the battle for allergy relief, here’s hoping some of these natural options will help you and your kids feel better so you can get out and enjoy the outdoors. Jessica Heine is a labor and delivery nurse. She lives in Olathe with her family. As always, please consult a health care provider with any questions or concerns. kcparent.com june 2017

PROS AND CONS OF

SHARING A BEDROOM

he list of things parents want to provide for their children seems endless: a good education, healthy meals and, of course, a safe and happy living environment. For many parents, that means asking the question about bedroom space. Some families explore room sharing out of necessity based on living space, others move children into the same bedroom for personal reasons. “I always shared a bedroom with my sister growing up,” says Julie Brown, Olathe mom. “I didn’t think much about it at the time, but now that I have kids, I sometimes wonder if they are missing out by having their own rooms. Looking back, we had a lot of fun!” Making a shared bedroom work for both kids and parents can involve some planning. “We are expecting our third in the fall and we know two of the kids are going to share a room. Figuring out who should share and what will work best is tricky,” says Monica Douglas, Kansas City, MO, mom. Sharing a bedroom can give your children a great opportunity for bonding and sharing special moments together. It also can help them understand the responsibility of shared space and the impact of their actions on others. “When my kids started sharing a room, my youngest finally started cleaning up his toys on his own. He realized that leaving them out meant his brother might take them or step on them, and it was great to see him putting that together himself and taking responsibility,” says Amy Mackie, Overland Park mom. Conversely, sharing a room with a sibling can increase the opportunity for fighting over space, toys or personal boundaries.

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If you are considering having your children share a bedroom, here are a few tips from other metro parents on making the move: Make sure the timing is right. If a baby is still not sleeping through the night, you are sleep training or you are potty training a toddler who is up to “go” frequently, the timing might not be right yet for room sharing. These are times of transition for the child, and adding additional transitions could be difficult for both child and parents to handle. Consider personal habits and sleep schedules. If you have two children, there isn’t much decision-making as far as who shares a room. If you have more than two, you have many aspects to consider. Who are your early risers and night owls? Which children have common bedtimes and/or nap schedules? Do you have light sleepers or heavy sleepers? The decision of which two children should room together is best made based on which children will complement each other’s habits and schedules. Allow for personal space. Make sure each child still gets some choice in the room. Picking out decor, selecting a bedspread or having a place to display artwork can help each child feel a bit of ownership and individuality in a shared space. Have a plan for discipline and nap times. If both children do not nap, what will the non-napper do during quiet time? Will he or she still have access to the room? If you are a parent who sends a child to his or her room as a discipline measure, what will the co-owner of the room do during these times? The answers can be tricky, but if you plan in advance, these situations will not catch you off guard and you will be able to guide your children through it.

Elite

Be prepared for some push-back. Changing bedrooms or bringing another person into your space is a large change for a child. It can impact everything from sleep schedules to temperament during the time of transition. Be prepared for the children to go through adjustments, but if you remain consistent and set expectations, the new normal will work itself out! Melissa Bellach is a freelance writer, wife and mom of two living in Overland Park.

ROOM-SHARING FOR OPPOSITE SEX SIBLINGS Considering having two siblings of the opposite sex share a bedroom? There are many pros and cons: • As it does with same-sex siblings, sharing a bedroom can help the children develop skills in compromise and conflict resolution. • Age matters a bit more with opposite sex siblings—children are usually most comfortable sharing space with a sibling of similar age. • Individuality is key. Siblings of the opposite sex may have many interests in common, or they may not. Allow each child to express himself and herself in their individual spaces and feel some ownership of the room. • Be ready for questions. As the children grow older, one or both of them may start noticing differences between them. Just answer honestly and directly.

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10 life lessons kids learn in youth sports

was a child with the athletic ability of a sloth-baby, but my parents still enrolled me in sports. I played softball, soccer, field hockey and did dance and gymnastics. I struck out 98.5 percent of the time. I may have scored one goal one time by accident. And I “danced,” but it’s safe to say no competitive dance coach was banging on my door. And now that I have three kids of my own, my husband and I have them enrolled in some sort of athletic activity throughout the year. Are they always the star of the team? No. Do we stick with it? Yes, because of the values they’re learning in youth sports.

Team sports or individual sports— which is better for your child? Head to KCParent.com to find out.

So kids, here’s what we hope participating in sports will teach you.

1. How to work as a team. Teamwork is a crucial life skill for you to learn. You will have to work with others throughout your life—on school projects, in your career and maybe someday as parents. Teamwork means listening to others, even if they have differing opinions. It means respecting them and finding common ground. It means supporting your teammates and building them up, just as you hope they will do for you. And it means succeeding or failing together.

2. How to handle disappointment. Sometimes you’ll fail. No successful person in life—athletic or otherwise—got there without overcoming obstacles. You may not make varsity the first time around. You may not make it ever and you’ll play JV. You’re still on a team where you can learn life lessons, make friends and enjoy a sport. You will lose a game at times, even if you were 100 percent sure it was in the bag (sometimes that’s why). You may get injured and find yourself on the sidelines for the championship game. You’ll hold your head up high, cheer on your team and celebrate or mourn with them just as if you’d been out there on the field.

kcparent.com june 2017

3. How to set a goal and work hard to achieve it. Not everyone is Lebron James or Eric Hosmer. Sometimes kids (like your old mom here) are on the team for reasons other than athletic prowess. You might be one of those kids. That doesn’t mean you can’t set a goal. Maybe your goal is to hit the ball by the end of the season. Or run as fast as the rest of the team in warm-ups. Or maybe you will be an athletic superstar (like your dad) and your goal will be to shatter state records. You will figure

out what you want to do and learn that success requires hard work. How will you achieve it? Practice. Determination. Perseverance. Accepting advice and criticism. Learning how to get better.

4. How to control emotions. Losing is hard. Striking out is hard. Missing a goal is hard. Watching your teammates succeed when you do not is hard. Watching your teammate miss a play that costs the game is hard. Even as adults, we can let emotions overwhelm us and cause us to act unkindly or with frustration. Sports will teach you to keep your emotions in check and channel your anger and disappointment into working harder to do better. Remember you could be the guy who strikes out next time, so rather than beating up on your teammate, build him up. Imagine how he feels and help him forgive himself and move forward.

5. How to win and lose graciously. Your behavior centers on winning, but losing will define what kind of athlete and teammate you are. Of course, celebrate your win. AFTER you shake hands with the opposing team and say “good game.” Compliment

7. How to respect authority. Your coaches deserve your respect, and we hope you’ll earn theirs in return. They have a lifetime of knowledge and experience in dealing with losing, winning, injuries and having to work as a team. Listen to them. Work for them. Prove yourself deserving of a spot on their team. You might look back on your childhood coach as someone who changed your life. As someone who believed in you when you didn’t believe in yourself. Show up early. Don’t quit. And say, “Thanks, Coach,” as you leave.

8. You are a valuable member of the team. Whether you are the starting pitcher or third-string lineman, you are on that team for a reason. You might be a backup in case someone gets hurt. You might be an important source of moral support from the dugout. Don’t undermine your role, however big or small it may be. Every member of the team has a spot on the roster, including you, even if you don’t make the game-winning shot.

9. It’s okay to make mistakes. your teammates—all of them. Even those who didn’t play. You’re all important members of the group. Learn how to lose like a winner. At some point, you will find yourself on the other side, watching the other team celebrate after shaking your hand and saying “good game.” You’ll have to walk off the court or field and grieve a tough loss. Let yourself be sad. Hold hands with your teammates or hug it out. Know you all did your best, and today just wasn’t your day to shine. There will be others.

6. How to play fair (even when the other team doesn’t). Cheaters never win and winners never cheat. Unfortunately, some teams play dirty. We hope you will learn that playing fair is the only true way to win in life. If you grow up playing dishonestly, you might carry that mindset into your adulthood. Playing fair will teach you to try your hardest, follow the rules, stay safe and accept the outcome. Being a good, honest athlete means you can live with your conscience. It means you are a leader—and a true winner— even if the scoreboard says otherwise.

You will mess up. You will drop the ball, miss a play or simply have a bad day. Everyone else on your team also will mess up at times. Including your coaches. Allow yourself some grace. Forgive yourself. Think about what happened, learn from it, get better and move on.

10. The importance of a healthy body. Your body is a gift from God. Move it. Work it. Strengthen it. Take care of it. Cherish it. Sports will help your muscles get stronger—not just your legs and arms, but your heart too. And your brain. Sports make you think, anticipate the next play and figure out how to get better. Playing sports is good for your mind, body and soul.

Now, let’s get going. You’ve got practice tonight.

Olathe mom Karen Johnson has three children, ages 6, 4 and 2. She writes at The21stCenturySAHM.com.

kcparent.com june 2017

off, just set them aside for a future use.) Use a sharp paring knife to cut off the tips of the cloves. I’ve found it is easiest to lay the bulb on its side and then give it a straight vertical slice. If any bulbs miss the cut, I go back and slice them individually. Take a small piece of foil and make a little boat for the garlic. This is so any extra oil will drip onto the foil, not the floor of your oven. Place garlic in foil boat. Drizzle garlic with 1 t. olive oil. Use your fingers to massage it into the cloves. When oven is hot, roast garlic for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown. Remove from oven and cool for about 5 minutes. To remove cloves from skin, use your knife to cut a small slit lengthwise down the skin. Use a fork or your fingers to pop the cloves from the skin. If not using immediately, use the foil boat to wrap garlic and refrigerate. Garlic may be roasted up to three days in advance.

Hummus ma Lahma

ummus ma Lahma is a traditional Arabic dish that translates, quite simply, as hummus with meat. It was traditionally prepared using lamb that was preserved in rich spices to extend the shelf life of the animal. In modern times, we’ve made a shift and now use ground beef or lamb, but still season it with the traditional spices. For the hummus, you certainly can purchase a store-bought version, but making your own is much tastier and healthier. Garnish with some toasted pine nuts, chopped cilantro and a dash of paprika, then close your eyes and let your taste buds carry you to the Middle East.

kcparent.com june 2017

ROASTED GARLIC HUMMUS: Ingredients: 1 small head of garlic 1 1/2 c. prepared garbanzo beans, or one 15-oz. can 1 lemon, zest and juice 2 T. tahini 2 T. extra virgin olive oil 1 t. sea salt 1 t. black pepper 1/8 t. cayenne pepper, optional 1/4-1/3 c. filtered water

To roast garlic: Preheat oven to 400 degrees. While oven heats, prepare your garlic. Use your hands to remove the extra white, flaky skin layers from the bulb of garlic. Try to keep all of the cloves intact. (If one or two fall

To make the hummus: Except for the water, place all ingredients in a small food processor fitted with the blade attachment. Squeeze lemon cut side up to keep seeds out. If necessary, drain and rinse beans before adding. Once all ingredients (except water) have been added, process hummus for about 2 minutes. Add 2 T. filtered water and process 2 minutes more. Add additional water one tablespoon at a time until you achieve the desired consistency. The longer you process the hummus, the smoother it will become. Enjoy immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.

MA LAHMA…A.K.A. SPICED ARABIC MEAT Ingredients: 1/2 lb. lean ground beef 1/4 t. ground cinnamon 1/4 t. cumin 1/4 t. all spice 1/4 t. garlic powder 1/4 t. paprika 1/4 t. black pepper 1/4 t. salt

Method: Heat a small skillet over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes. While skillet heats, combine seasonings in a small bowl or ramekin. Using clean hands, massage seasonings into meat. Place seasoned meat into heated skillet. Brown and crumble meat until no longer pink. Use a slotted spoon to transfer meat to a bowl.

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TOASTED PINE NUTS Heat a small skillet over medium-low heat for just a few minutes. Add pine nuts, no more than can fit comfortably in a single layer. Stir constantly for 3-4 minutes, just until fragrant and lightly browned. Pour onto a paper towel to cool. Use immediately or store in an airtight container for up to one month.

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PRESENTATION FOR HUMMUS MA LAHMA… Pour hummus into a serving dish. Make a small well in the center of the hummus. Add meat mixture. Garnish with toasted pine nuts, a swirl of olive oil, a sprinkling of chopped cilantro, and a dash of paprika. Serve with pita chips and/or sliced bell peppers.

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Notes: This is a GREAT kid-friendly meal for picky eaters. Basically, your kids think they’re having chips and dip for dinner. What they don’t realize is they are getting a well-balanced portion of nutrients, fat, carbs and protein. Leftovers taste great for up to five days. Katie Newell is a former junk food junkie turned certified nutrition coach. She is a culinary instructor, cookbook author and mama to two sweet girls. Check out her cookbook, Feeding Our Families, and find other recipes at HealthnutFoodie.com.

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summer fun guide

table of contents 43 craft corner 44 lemonade stand SUMMER FUN

45 ice cream 46 savor summer nights

TABLE OF CONTENTS

48 free summer fun 50 avoid brain drain 51 festivals

CRAFTCORNER

In no time, your child will turn his trash into treasure!

plastic bottle hanging planter

onâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t throw away those plastic water and soda bottles. Instead, make a cute hanging planter! All it takes is bright paint, a few succulents or herbs, some yarn and a little help from an adult. In no time, your child will turn his trash into treasure!

step one: Cut the bottle in half using the utility knife.

step two: Paint the top portion materials needed: Plastic bottles Plants Soil Utility knife Yarn Acrylic paint

of the bottle, as well as the lid with some acrylic paint. You may need to apply a few coats.

step three: Once the paint is dry, use the knife to cut four holes around the middle of the bottle.

step four: Thread some yarn through the holes and tie off with a knot. Trim the yarn to your desired length.

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.

step five: Fill with soil and plants and hang the planters in a sunny spot! kcparent.com june 2017

summer fun guide

hen your kids ask you if they can have a lemonade stand today, do you give a tired sigh in anticipation of all the work required? Me too. So when my kids suggested doing a lemonade stand in our yard recently, I first blamed public television for putting the idea in their heads. But I soon reluctantly agreed, and we were on our way to several whole days of fun and—don’t tell my kids this part— learning. To start, I told the kids to hunt down a small table, folding table or stable cardboard box. Then we ran to the store for cups, ice and powdered lemonade mix. The kids made signs to put on their table and on sticks stuck in the ground. One of the kids held up a sign and yelled, “Lemonade!” to attract business. My money-obsessed 10-year-old son started the first day by charging a big fat buck for each medium-size glass of lemonade. He actually had a few takers, but the next day he decided to charge half price and ended up earning much more. Some days the kids would put up a sign that said all the proceeds from the day would be going to a specific cause, like to a cat shelter or to the Red Cross. Those were the days I didn’t gripe about having to sit outside in the heat acting as lemonade stand manager and instead beamed with pride.

stand learning As summer wore on, the kids enjoyed coming up with bigger and better ideas, like Kool-Aid mixed with clear soda, and that was a hit. They looked like mini businesspeople sitting around the dining room table discussing the next Big Idea. They started getting repeat business from people who drove down our street every day, and even made labels for the cups with their business name, Summer Kids Drink Stand. The lemonade stand was a simple venture at first glance. But when I looked a little deeper, I saw it for all the lessons it taught my kids and their friends.

financial. Kids learn how to seek out a deal on cups and lemonade and to make their own ice in advance at home because they should pay Mom back for start-up business costs. They also learn about making change, counting money, measuring, dividing earnings among kids, determining prices, record-keeping, saving for something they want and altruism (through donating their money to a specific cause or charity). social and general business. There’s much for kids

to learn about business, like the fact that there are good and bad times and days to sell lemonade (lunch and rush hour are good, neighborhood garage sale days are great, chilly days are not). They also get to meet and greet

neighbors and strangers and learn patience and perseverance.

safety and stranger danger. I’m sure your kids know

not to go up to a car when they don’t know who is in it, but selling lemonade helps reinforce that message and lets your child know it’s okay to tell someone, “No, I’m not allowed to do that.” Your child should know to let the customers get out of their cars and come to get their lemonade—it’s not a drive-through, after all!

basic manners. I made sure the kids knew to not hold cups by the lip or stick their hand in the cup. For a little humor break, I showed them the clip from National Lampoon’s Vacation, where the kid stirs the drink up with her bare, dirty arm, and told my entrepreneurs never to do that. When telling customers the lemonade’s cost, the kids learned to say, “Fifty cents, please” and thank the customer upon receiving the money. If they got a tip, they would express their gratitude extra profusely. bonus: Your neighbors may be broke and sick of lemonade, but your kids won’t ask to borrow money from

you again. At least not until summer’s over. Kerrie McLoughlin is the chaos-loving mom of five. Catch up with her at TheKerrieShow.com.

Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation (ALSF) was started in 2000 by Alex Scott, who was diagnosed with childhood cancer when she wasn’t even a year old. When she was 4, she set up a lemonade stand to donate the money to help find a cure. Soon others around the nation also were setting up stands to donate their money, as well. Alex died at the age of 8, but her lemonade stand legacy has raised more than $40 million for childhood cancer research and more. Visit AlexsLemonade.org to register your stand, and they’ll send you a packet of materials to make your fundraiser a success.

5favorite ice cream shops in kc

Whether you favor an old-fashioned ice cream parlor that scoops up classic homemade flavors or a newer, trendy shop dishing out gourmet goodies, Kansas City has your summer frozen treat cravings covered! NEW in 2017! Freezing Moo: 6936 W. 135th St., Overland Park, KS. COMING SOON to 1185 W. 95th St., Overland Park, KS 66214 and 4535 W. 119th St., Leawood, KS, FreezingMooIceCream.com What makes it special: Freezing Moo is the newest trend to take over Kansas City. This Thai-inspired ice cream technique is entertaining and delicious. Watch as servers prepare fried ice cream rolls right before your eyes. Servers handcraft this dessert by pouring milk over an iced grill and combining the milk with fresh mix-ins like fruit and chocolate. They serve up the fresh ice cream in rolls for a one-of-a-kind sundae.

Betty Rae’s Ice Cream: 7140 Wornall Rd., Kansas City, MO, BettyRaes.com What makes it special: Serving delicious homemade waffle cones and ice cream sandwiches filled with homemade gourmet

flavors, Betty Rae’s is a favorite neighborhood hangout. With bright trendy colors and a friendly staff, the sweet spot is loved by Waldoians! Betty Rae’s offers delicious classic flavors and a variety of unique concoctions for the truly daring.

Glacé: 4960 Main St., Kansas City, MO, GlaceIceCream.com

What makes it special: At Glacé you’ll find one-of-a-kind decadence showcased in a dozen flavors you’ve never imagined. But upon reading their names, you’ll find yourself thinking, “They read my mind— what a fabulous concoction!” Glacé uses only pure, fresh foods and natural ingredients to create their delicious flavors—no artificial flavorings. Locally owned and operated, this Christopher Elbow ice cream shop frequently invents new flavors just begging to be tried.

Sylas and Maddy’s: 11925 S. Strang

Line Rd., Olathe, KS and 1014 Massachusetts, Lawrence, KS, SylasAndMaddysIceCream.com What makes it special: Sylas and Maddy’s makes fresh homemade ice cream and waffle cones daily, so you’re guaranteed to enjoy the best product they have to serve. Their delicious flavors have been super popular with local customers since 1997.

Poppy’s Ice Cream Shop and Coffee House: 307 SE Douglas St., Lee’s

Summit, MO, PoppysIceCream.com

What makes it special: Poppy’s has that oldfashioned feel with a classic atmosphere and all the warmth and hospitality of the locally owned business that it is. Our favorite thing about Poppy’s is that all the ice cream is made in-house, and the homemade flavors are truly delish!

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summer fun guide

Savor

n old saying goes that the quality of a child’s day can be measured by the ring around the bathtub. If that’s the case, one could argue there’s no better way to embrace summer break than by engaging in outdoor play as much as possible. For many families, outdoor adventures are highly desired but hard to implement. A recent study by the Seattle Children’s Research Institute concludes that half of the four million preschoolers surveyed were not able to be outdoors every day with the supervision of a parent. Not surprisingly, the non-profit advocacy group Alliance for Childhood concludes that “compared to the 1970s, children now spend 50 percent less time in unstructured outdoor activities. Children ages 10 to 16 now spend, on average, only 12.6 minutes per day in vigorous physical activity. Yet they spend an average of 10.4 waking hours each day relatively motionless.”

kcparent.com june 2017

summer nights

We all know the benefits of being outdoors: lots of fresh air, unlimited creativity, plenty of exercise and stress relief, among other things. But ongoing research from sources such as Cornell University and San Francisco University now concludes yet one more reason to aspire to bond outside: Despite living in a consumer driven culture, experiences and memories built as a family bring more satisfaction and happiness than possessions ever do. With a growing number of families operating with both parents’ working, one of the biggest challenges is simply finding time to be outdoors as a family. Have no fear. Some of the most memorable activities can take place after sunset—and with swarthy temps on the rise throughout the summer months, evening activities may be more preferred anyway. In no particular order, here are a dozen activities to delve into as a family to savor the summer nights.

Hit the trail. The American Hiking Society dubbed the first Saturday of June as National Trails Day. KC is home to a variety of trail systems that connect suburbs on both sides of the state line. Hit a local trail this June 3 and beyond!

Walk to the store. Crooner Nat King Cole dubbed summer the season of lazy, hazy days. Indulge! Hit the local ice cream shop or swing by a Redbox station by walking or biking to get there instead of driving.

Teach old-school games. Kick the can. Capture the flag. Flashlight tag. Many classic games are lost on this generation of children. Introduce them to some of your childhood favorites.

Pseudo camping. Who says you have to go somewhere far away to try your hand at camping? Pitch the tent in the backyard or blow up the air mattress on the deck.

Stargazing. Read up on constellations, download a stargazing app and enjoy nature’s nighttime wide-screen.

Make your own sweet concoctions. Break out the electric ice cream maker and make your own frozen desserts.

Lights, camera, action! With a few simple supplies, you can build your own movie projector and watch a favorite flick in the backyard. Lay sleeping bags out on the deck and build a gourmet popcorn bar on the patio table with a variety of candies, nuts and pretzels and popcorn. For those seeking simple installation, Movies 2 U will do all the hard work for you. Simply invite the neighborhood and enjoy! Drive-in movie theater. KC boasts a handful of real drive-in movie theaters. Plus, most city parks and rec departments offer family-friendly outdoor movie viewing experiences.

Outdoor theater. Starlight, Theatre in the Park and a slew of community theater groups provide high-quality and lowcost family entertainment. Nothing beats Broadway-style productions under the stars! Chase fireflies. Grab your butterfly net and a mason jar (don’t forget to poke holes in the lids for ventilation) and go to town catching summer’s favorite living light source!

Gourmet outdoor dining. A grill can cook so much more than burgers and brats. Think outside the box. Grill pizza, veggies, even fruit! And don’t rule out the fire pit as a cooking source for s’mores, tinfoil dinners and more.

fun fact Long gone are the days of waiting while Mom or Dad hand-churned the ice cream maker. But even modern electric devices are still a pain to wait for. Enter the Kick the Can Ice Cream Maker. These machines can be tossed back and forth for 10-15 minutes and produce delicious frozen treats after a quick round of soccer is complete!

Sports under the stars. Go to a professional or semi-professional league sporting event, such as a Royals game at the K, a T-Bones independent professional league game at Community America Ballpark or a Sporting KC game at Children’s Mercy Park.

Lauren Greenlee and her brood attempted their first-of-many backyard camping adventures this spring. She can be found writing from her Olathe home.

kcparent.com june 2017

summer fun guide

40 ideas for FREE Find TONS more ideas at KCParent.com!

By Kristina Light Marvel at modern art at the Nerman Museum, where admission is free.

Stroll through Kauffman Memorial Gardens. Attend a free family fun night on Thursdays in June and July at Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop.

Pack a picnic and explore one of the city’s best picnic spots.

Visit a new library.

Play at one of the best parks in Kansas City.

Ride the KC Streetcar and participate in our Streetcar Scavenger Hunt on KCParent.com.

Participate in a summer reading program.

Feed apples and carrots to bison and elk at the Native Hoofed Animal Enclosure.

Play at Crown Center’s free Thomas the Train exhibit. Take a tour of the Roasterie and learn about coffee.

Create a masterpiece at Kaleidoscope.

Watch as marbles are made at Moon Marble.

Go fishing.

Splash and play at a Kansas City area sprayground.

Play “I Spy” at Lakeside Nature Center.

Stop and smell the roses at Loose Park.

kcparent.com june 2017

Spend a first Friday in the Crossroads.

Learn about the Santa Fe Trail at Cave Springs Nature Center.

FUN in kansas city Hike Monkey Mountain and other great trails Take a tour of the Kansas City, MO, City Hall.

Hike at Ernie Miller Nature Center.

Bring binoculars for bird watching at Burroughs Audubon Nature Center.

Attend a free summer concert.

Take a free class at Burr Oak Woods Nature Center.

Stroll near a Kansas City area waterfall.

Visit the Lee’s Summit Railroad Museum and explore Downtown Lee’s Summit. Build a free project at Home Depot on select Saturdays.

Enjoy hands-on exhibits at Prairie Park Nature Center.

Watch model trains at the KC Rail Experience at Union Station.

Photograph friends in front of one of Kansas City’s 200 fountains.

Get free money at the Money Museum.

Attend a Kansas City area summer festival.

Discover the waterfall at Parkville Nature Sanctuary. Discover Kansas’ most famous residents through the artwork at Legends Outlets. Tour the Harley-Davidson Factory, a favorite activity for ages 12 and up. Sample a homemade potato chip at Price Chopper at 151st & Metcalf.

Bike Trolley Trail.

Learn about nature at the Anita Gorman Discovery Center.

Imagine you’re in the Wild West at Antioch Park.

kcparent.com june 2017

summer fun guide

creative activities to avoid

BRAIN DRAIN own computer games or websites in an easy and fun way while developing life-long technology skills.

• Go outside. Go for a nature walk

at one of our great nature centers like Lakeside Nature Center or Ernie Miller Nature Center. Talk about the different plants and animals you see on your walk and enjoy the educational resources provided inside. Take it one step further and ask kids to write about what they see!

• Make change. Collect loose

hen daily course work gives way to summer fun, keeping kids’ brains sharp can be a struggle. While summer bridge workbooks or packets are important and helpful, there are other ways to keep your kids thinking while having fun at the same time. Check out these ideas to get you started!

• Be a kitchen scientist. Grow rock

candy, make a volcano, make your own play dough or grow bacteria. Kids love experimenting, and there are many science projects that you can do with household items. These types of experiments are fun and sometimes messy, but they can teach kids science and math skills. Check Pinterest for ideas and instructions.

•

Write a journal or a blog. Have kids keep a journal about their activities during the summer, either on paper or online, to keep language arts and technology skills sharp.

•

Play board games. Games like Monopoly can teach math and money skills, Trivial Pursuit encourages reading and general

kcparent.com june 2017

knowledge and card games like Uno are great for younger kids who are perfecting colors and numbers. These games also can help develop social skills like taking turns and playing fair. Let your kids keep score to polish their addition skills!

• Write your own nonfiction book.

Have your children research a different animal each day on websites like NationalGeographic. com. Then ask them to write a couple of sentences about their chosen animal and draw a picture of it. Compile these throughout the summer and you’ll have your own “All About Animals” book. Not into animals? Pick any topic the kids are interested in!

• Get growing. Work with your kids to plant a garden. Not only will they learn about the growing process, but you’ll get some delicious, healthy food when it’s harvesttime!

• Learn code. Dr. Mandi Sonnenberg of Rockhurst University suggests visiting Code.org with your children to help them learn the art of coding. There they can create their

change throughout the summer in a jar. At the end of the summer have your kids count the money and use it for a special treat. This is a great math and economics lesson.

• Write to a pen pal. Enlist a

grandparent, cousin or far-away friend to be a pen pal for the summer. Kids can write letters each week to keep their writing skills sharp and learn the joy of receiving REAL mail.

• Read, read, read! Make time

for reading every day with your children. Participate in reading programs (at local libraries or bookstores) to give kids a sense of accomplishment and possibly real rewards upon meeting their reading goals. Schedule a weekly trip to the library and let them pick their own reading material—what matters is that they are reading! Be sure to let them see you reading, too. They will learn that it’s worthwhile and enjoyable when they see you choosing to read.

Sara Keenan enjoys spending summers with her two kids in Brookside. Her family’s favorite summer learning activity is planting and cultivating their small garden.

F a i r & s s l a v i t s e F e in kansas city Jun Dragon Boat Festival

isit KCParent.com for our complete Summer Festival Guide! These are our top picks for fairs and festivals in Kansas City this month.

Old Shawnee Days June 1-4, Old Shawnee, OldShawneeDays.org. Kick off your summer with everyone’s favorite Shawnee event, Old Shawnee Days! There’s something for everyone: music, carnival rides, contests, games, the parade, crafts, shopping, festival food and so much more.

Jazzoo June 2, Kansas City Zoo, JazzooKC. org. This event is the Kansas City Zoo’s largest fundraiser. Jazzoo helps raise support for the children’s educational programs and feeds the zoo’s more than 1,700 animals. Lee’s Summit Downtown Days June 2-4, Downtown Lee’s Summit, LeesSummitDowntownDays.com. For more than 20 years, Downtown Lee’s Summit Main Street has been hosting a family-friendly festival in the heart of the city. Live entertainment, food vendors, a carnival, craft vendors and much more are part of this year’s festivities.

Capital City Family & Food Truck Festival June 3, 11:00-7:00, Gage Park, SW

Blaisdell Dr., Topeka, KS, VisitTopeka.com. Bring your appetite and enjoy the culinary delights of more than 40 food trucks and vendors. Bounce houses and more offer family fun on site, as well as live music and entertainment.

Vaile Mansion Strawberry Festival June 3, Vaile Mansion, VaileMansion.org. A hundred craft and antique dealers will be set up around the mansion. The Vaile Society will be selling strawberry treats!

Rose Show and Rose Day June 4, Loose

Park, KCParks.org. Visit the garden center to view the hundreds of roses on display from our annual rose show! Bring your blankets, chairs and picnics and enjoy the day. Free ice cream, lemonade and bottled water, ribbon cutting ceremony and mayor’s proclamation.

Sunflower Music Festival June 9-17, White Concert Hall, Washburn University, Topeka, KS, SunflowerMusicFestival.org. Sunflower Music Festival of Topeka presents an annual series of orchestra concerts, chamber music evenings, educational projects and other artistic events of the highest caliber. Festival on the Trails June 9-10, Downtown

Gardner, FestivalOnTheTrails.com. The festival begins Friday night and includes free entertainment and a variety of beverage and food booths. Saturday continues the fun with a full day’s activities for children, crafts and commercial booths, a car show, food and much more!

Jazz in the Woods June 9, Corporate Woods,

Overland Park, KS, JazzInTheWoods.com. Jazz in the Woods is a two-day showcase of local culture and the arts. Established in 1989, Jazz in the Woods highlights the best the Kansas City area has to offer in live music, food and entertainment.

Dragon Boat Festival June 10, Brush

Creek along the Country Club Plaza, KCParks.org. The day will include Chinese cultural games, performances, delicious food and dragon boats—plus fun activities for children of all ages. Dancers, drummers and musicians from all over town will entertain you on the stage.

Great Lenexa BBQ Battle June 23-24, Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park (87th & Lackman Road), Lenexa.com. The two-day event, which includes children’s activities and live music, attracts cooks from all over the nation who compete for the coveted title of Grand Champion of the Great Lenexa BBQ Battle.

Future Stages Festival June 25,

Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, KauffmanCenter.org. Future Stages Festival is a FREE annual community event that turns a spotlight on youth performances and family-friendly programming. Each year the festival puts more than 600 talented young performers on stage before live audiences.

Maker Faire: Kansas City June 24-25,

Union Station, KansasCity.MakerFaire.com. This family-friendly event demonstrates what and how people are inventing, making and creating. Come see what others are making and be inspired to tap into your own creativity! kcparent.com june 2017

june

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

CALENDAR

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

kcparent.com june 2017

Sleeping Beauty presented by the Culture House

celebrate

watch

learn

listen

create

Start your summer with Downtown Days June 2-4 in Downtown Leeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Summit. A festival featuring live entertainment, arts, a carnival and more! 816.246.6598

The Culture House presents Sleeping Beauty June 9 & 10 at Olathe Northwest High School. Enjoy this family favorite! Culture House.com

Celebrate World Oceans Day June 10 at the Kansas City Zooâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Zootastik Learning Fest. Enjoy activities in the lobby that are included with admission. KansasCityZoo.org

Take the little ones to Petite Performances June 17 at Kauffman Center. Enjoy a brief performance and an instrument petting zoo. KCSymphony.org

Union Station hosts the Maker Faire June 24 & 25. A family-friendly event that demonstrates what people are inventing, creating and making. MakerFaireKC.com

1 Thursday One-Day Childbirth Class 8:30, Olathe Medical Center. Important information for expectant parents. $65. 913.791.4312 Bubbleology 9:30, MCPL (Parkville) Burst into summer with a celebration of bubbles. Pop on over to fill the sky with hundreds of bubbles. Free. MyMCPL.org KCPT PBS Kids Summer Fun 10:00, KCPT Studios. Activities based on Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood and an opportunity for kids to be featured on new channel! Free. KCPT.org Day Out with Frank & Ella 10:00, Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm. Take part in a different history theme with lots of hands-on activities and crafts. Mahaffie.org 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 Thimble Thursday Noon, Garment District Place. Free outdoor concert to enjoy over lunch. KCParks.org

Old Shawnee Days 6:00, Shawnee Town 1929. Opening night! Wristband night—for $25 receive unlimited rides! OldShawneeDays.org Music at the Farmstead 6:30, Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead. An evening of music at Deanna Rose. The June performer is Funky Mama! Free. 913.897.2360 Auditions 7:00, Miller Marley School of Dance. Auditions held 7:00-8:30 for Junior Competition Team. 913.492.0004

2 Friday Kansas City Flavor Festival Thru Sunday, Worlds of Fun. Taste the rich flavors of the KC culinary experience at this new festival! WorldsOfFun.com Talkin’ Truman 11:00, Harry S Truman Library and Museum. Learn about the connection between President Truman and famous entertainers. TrumanLibrary.org SummerFest 2017 5:00, Belton Memorial Park. Activities include bounce house, touch a truck, craft booths, food trucks and more! BeltonParks.org

Downtown Days Thru Sunday, Downtown Lee’s Summit. A festival featuring live entertainment, arts and crafts, a carnival and more! 816.246.6598 Prairie Village Art Show Thru Sunday, Prairie Village Shops. Annual art show featuring more than 100 artists. Children’s activities, food, music and more. PrairieVillageShops.com First Fridays 5:00, Crossroads Art District. Galleries and shops remain open the first Friday of each month. KCCrossroads.org Jazzoo 6:00, Kansas City Zoo. Enjoy delicious dishes from many Kansas City area restaurants, limitless libations and entertainment. JazzooKC.org Stories Under the Stars 7:00, Ernie Miller Nature Center. Enjoy old-fashioned family fun with stories that will delight all ages. $3/person. 913.764.7759

3 Saturday Strawberry Festival 9:00, Vaile Mansion. Strawberry treats, 100 craft and antique booths and plants for sale. VaileMansion.org

kcparent.com june 2017

Opening Day June 10, Johnson County Arts & Heritage Center. Celebrate Johnson County Museum in its new home with free events all day long! JoCoGov.org

Party on the Prairie 9:00, Jerry Smith Park. Live music, 1-mile guided trail walks, plein air painters, scavenger hunt and more! 816.513.7500 Tic Tac Toe Workshop 9:00, Home Depot. Build a wooden tic-tac-toe game to play with family or friends almost anywhere. Free. HomeDepot.com First Saturdays at Shoal Creek 9:00, Shoal Creek Living History Museum. Reenactors bring the village to life with skits, skirmishes and demonstrations. 816.792.2655 Old Shawnee Days Parade 10:00, Downtown Shawnee. Watch the parade and then head to the fair and visit the KC Parent Family Fun Zone! OldShawneeDays.org A Day in the Park 10:00, Shawnee Mission Park. Enjoy a wide variety of activities for the entire family throughout the park. Free. JCPRD.com

GeoArboretum 10:00, Overland Park Arboretum. A brief classroom presentation on maps, directions and using a compass with a treasure hunt. Pre-reg at OPABG.org. Discover Nature 10:00, Anita B Gorman Discovery Center. Discover Missouri’s aquatic ecosystems and discover a world of wonder. 816.759.7300 Family & Food Truck Festival 11:00, Kansas Statehouse. Enjoy more than 40 food trucks and vendors. Bounce houses, live music and more! VisitTopeka.com Rose Show & Rose Day Today & tomorrow, Loose Park. View hundreds of displayed roses. Kids enjoy the children’s rose craft workshop! KansasRoseSociety.org Disney’s The Little Mermaid Thru June 11, Starlight Theatre. See the beloved family musical with eye-popping visuals and an award-winning score. KCStarlight.com

4 Sunday Youth Archery 9:00, Lake City Range. Learn more of the fundamentals of shooting archery. Ages 12-18. Pre-reg at 816.249.3194. Living History Farm Program 10:00, Watkins Woolen Mill. Costumed interpretive staff presents real life in rural Missouri in the 1870s. 816.580.3387

Catch Dad’s Heart this Father’s Day

with a Personalized Keepsake MOO-VIE AT THE FARMSTEAD

Charlotte’s Web 7/31/17

FREE ADMISSION

JUNE 22

Gates open at 7:30 p.m. Movie begins at dusk Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead

1200 Kansas City Road Olathe, Kansas 913.971.5111

Activities vary by season Wild West Days September 24 & 25 Visit www.mahaffie.org

kcparent.com june 2017

13800 Switzer Rd., Overland Park KS 66221 Presented by

Benefiting

20% OFF one piece of pottery with coupon

Offer expires 6/30/17. May be combined with 1/2 studio fee daily special but no other offers. No cash value.

paintglazeandfire.net 127th & Metcalf • Overland Park, KS

913-661-CLAY

Weston Kids Day Noon, Weston City Park. Kick off your summer fun with food, games, drawings for prizes and more. WestonMo.com art + family = FUN 1:00, Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Join us every Saturday and Sunday for free activities for all ages! 816.751.127 Music in the Park 6:00, Rotary Park (Blue Springs). Enjoy a relaxing evening outdoors with free, live musical entertainment. BlueSpringsGov.com

5 Monday Sea Life: Let’s Talk Conservation 10:00, MCPL (Liberty). Learn from the Sea Life Education Team and make a trash capsule. Pre-reg at MyMCPL.org. Thomas & Friends: Explore the Rails Thru Sept 10, Crown Center. All aboard for learning adventures with Thomas and Friends. Free. CrownCenter.com Classical Conversations Parent Practicum Thru Wed, First Baptist Church (Shawnee). Join homeschool parents for encouragement and inspiration. ParentPracticum.com

Jazz on the Square 5:30, Corbin Theatre (Liberty). Enjoy live jazz. The music will keep your toes tapping, and the ballads will warm your heart! CorbinTheatre.org

Family Feast Day Pizza Shoppe. Get a single topping king pizza, two Shoppe house salads and an order of garlic cheese bread for only $18.99. PizzaShoppe.com

T-Bones Baseball 7:05, Community America Ballpark. The T-Bones take on the Wichita Wingnuts. Kids eat free on Mondays! TBonesBaseball.com

Cane Pole Fishing 6:00, James A Reed Memorial Wildlife Area. A fun and unique fishing experience using cane poles. Ages 4-10, with adult. Pre-reg at 816.622.0900.

6 Tuesday

Popsicles in the Park 6:30, Various parks (Independence). Enjoy free frozen treats, live children’s entertainment and special activities. ci.Independence.mo.us

Jumperoo 9:00, Urban Air Trampoline Park. A special time for those 5 and under to enjoy access to the playground and trampoline attractions. $10/child. 913.298.0626

7 Wednesday

Selfie Scavenger Hunt Thru Sept, KCKS. Explore Kansas City, KS, with this family-friendly scavenger hunt and discover fun things to do and see. VisitKansasCityKS.com

Summer Movie Clubhouse 10:00, Cinemark (Plaza). See The Secret Life of Pets for only $1! Check out the new Speedy Pack concessions. Cinemark.com

Train Station Adventure 10:00, Legoland Discovery Center. Climb, slide, jump and roll around train obstacles inside this all-new play zone! 816.471.4386

Story Time in the Park 10:00, Hidden Valley Park. A traditional story time in an outdoor setting. Enjoy books, music, activities and more. 816.513.7500

Creative Story Time 11:00, Ceramic Café. Read a book and then paint a ceramic item that goes along with the story. Finish with a snack. $12. CeramicCafeKC.com

Wagons Ho! 10:00, Nat’l Frontier Trails Museum. Discover the history of westward expansion in this fun, interactive program. Pre-reg at 816.325.7575.

LITTLE ADVENTURES / Wednesdays and Saturdays / June 7 - August 12 Explore the museum collection through gallery talks, then visit the hands-on workshop to make your own toy or miniature. From robots to miniature rugs, each week features a new theme. Included with museum admission. Become a member today to enjoy all ten weeks for free!

A collection that speaks for itself.

OPEN DAILY: 10 AM – 4PM, CLOSED TUESDAYS

5235 OAK STREET K ANSAS CIT Y, MO 64112

816.235.8000

TOYANDMINIATUREMUSEUM.ORG

kcparent.com june 2017

Little Adventures 1:00, National Museum of Toys and Miniatures. Explore the museum collection and visit the hands-on workshop. 816.235.8000 Creative Café 3:00, Jo Co Library (DeSoto). Librarians demonstrate new technology, and kids can self-learn and mentor others. JoCoLibrary.org

8 Thursday World Oceans Day 10:00, Sea Life Aquarium. Join us for a special, FUN hands-on activity that helps raise awareness for conservation. VisitSeaLife.com Gardens of Myth Thru October, Powell Gardens. Exhibition of incredibly realistic sculptures of goblins, fairies, trolls and more. PowellGardens.org

Saturday, June 10, 2017 | 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. | FREE The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art joins JuneteenthKC in commemorating the abolition of slavery in the United States. Saturday, June 10 | 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art 45th & Oak | nelson-atkins.org

Saturday, June 17 | Noon to 9 p.m. The Historic Jazz District 18th & Vine | Juneteenth-kc.com

Sizzlin Summer Book Sale Thru Saturday, Johnson County Community College. More than a hundred thousand books and audiovisual items at bargain prices. JoCoLibrary.org Ladies Night Out 5:00, Downtown Lee’s Summit. Shops open late with games, prizes, snacks, special promotions and drinks. DowntownLS.org MPE Used Curriculum Sale 6:15, Kansas City First Church of the Nazarene. Get great deals on curriculum! Free for all buyers. MidwestHomeschoolers.org

9 Friday Scribble Workshop 10:00, KC North Community Center. Adult-child class for growing creative minds. Dress to get messy! 816.784.6100 Story Time with Sluggerrr! 10:00, MCPL (Raytown). A special story time event celebrating our hometown baseball team, the Kansas City Royals. MyMCPL.org Sleeping Beauty 2:00 & 7:00, Olathe Northwest High School. Enjoy a performance of Sleeping Beauty by the Culture House. Culture House.com Sunflower Music Festival Thu Sunday, White Concert Hall (Washburn). Annual series of orchestra concerts, chamber music and more. SunflowerMusicFestival.org Sugar Creek Slavic Festival 5:00, Mike Onka Memorial Building. Traditional music, food and dance from the Slavic nations of Eastern Europe. SlavicFest.com

kcparent.com june 2017

Festival on the Trails Today & tomorrow, Gardner. Entertainment, food and beverage booths, crafts, kids activities and more! FestivalOnTheTrails.com

TRAIN RIDES

Middle School Teen Night 7:00, Paradise Park. Go-karts are part of the featured fun tonight. In addition, receive a $10 fun card and personal pizza. Paradise-Park.com Jazz in the Woods Today & tomorrow, Corporate Woods Founders Park. A two-day showcase of local culture and the arts. Live music, food and more! JazzInTheWoods.com Free Summer Concert 7:00, Kansas City Museum. Enjoy a free outdoor concert on the museum grounds. KansasCityMuseum.org Friday Night Concerts 7:00, Macken Park. Listen to music by the classic rock band Switch. Come hungry to try Kansas City’s famous food trucks. NKC.org

10 Saturday Opening Day 9:00, Johnson County Arts & Heritage Center. Celebrate Johnson County Museum in its new home with free events all day long! JoCoGov.org Flag Day 9:00, Fort Osage. Learn about proper flag etiquette and explore a display of flags representing different periods of American history. $4-$7. 816.229.8980 Zootastik Learning Fest 10:00, Kansas City Zoo. Celebrate World Oceans Day with activities in the lobby. Included with admission. KansasCityZoo.org Juneteenth Celebration 10:00, NelsonAtkins. A day of visual and literary arts, music, entertainment and education. Free. Nelson-Atkins.org

TrainDayRides Ice Cream Train Rides Ice Cream Train Family Food Pumpkin ExpressTrain Train Train Grandparents $8.50

$9.50 $10.00 $12.00 $10.00 ofSaturday the 8th, 15th 22nd September 11,Depart one grandparent Regular Trains Regular Trains Depart EveryRides Every Friday,in October weekends 2ndFriday of theand month Sat (May - Oct) - Aug2:00 Sat &FREE Sun,with 2 pma[May -Sun, Oct]2 pm 12:30, and 3:30 June - Aug, Trains depart atJune rides paid& child’s admission! June - Aug 7 pm Sat., 11 am [June -Closed Aug Sundays only] in July and Aug 7 pm 7 pm Sat, 11 am (June - Aug only) Charters •• Field Trips or Birthday Parties, plan by appointment. Field Trips or Birthday Parties, plan by appointment.

Charters

Kids under three FREE

Tickets sale one one hour hourbefore beforetrain traindeparture departuretime. time. Tickets go go on on sale

Belton, Grandview & Kansas City Railroad Co.

502 Walnut •Belton, Missouri • 816-331-0630 • www.beltonrailroad.org

CELEBRATE THE

ARTS IN KANSAS CITY

FUTURE STAGES FESTIVAL FUN F

OR AL

L AGE

Dragon Boat Festival 10:00, Brush Creek (Country Club Plaza) Dragon boat races, entertainment, food and fun for the entire family. ChinaGardenSociety-KC.org Jacob Party: Dad’s Day Event 10:00, Trailside Nature Center. Children bring an honored guest for a nature walk at Indian Creek Trail. ConnectAtCentral.com Hands-On History 11:00, National World War I Museum and Memorial. History is brought to life. Handle Great War artifacts. TheWorldWar.org Tonganoxie Days Noon, Gallagher Park. Free live music, food trucks, activities for the kiddos, beer garden and more! TonganoxieDays.org

SUNDAY

JUNE 25, 2017

11 am–4 pm

LEARN MORE AT PRESENTED BY PREMIER PARTNER

kauffmancenter.org/futurestages SUPPORT PROVIDED BY

kcparent.com june 2017

T-Bones Baseball Various Dates, Community America Ballpark. Join the summer fun. Check out TBonesBaseball.com for great promotions.

Dance Recital 12:30 & 6:00, Leid Center (Lawrence). See Leighâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s School of Dance perform in their annual recital. 913.764.4146 Summer Scene 2017 4:00, TB Hanna Station Park (Raymore). Arts and crafts, food trucks, live entertainment and more! Raymore.com Legends Live 5:00, Legends Outlets. The summer concert series features local talent performing popular music. Free. LegendsShopping.com Ice Cream Train 7:00, Belton, Grandview & KC RR. Enjoy a train ride and an ice cream treat. A great summer evening! BeltonRailroad.org Movies in the Park 8:00, Electric Park (Lenexa). Bring the family for a night of lawn games, live music and a movie. Lenexa.com Overnight Fishing 11:00, Kill Creek Park. Grab your fishing pole and lantern for overnight fishing. Park police officers will be on duty. 913.888.4713

kcparent.com june 2017

11 Sunday Strawberry Festival 11:00, Shawnee Mission Health (Prairie Star). Fun for the entire family! Games, chair massages, moonwalk, health screenings and more! ShawneeMission.org Hygiene Kit Packing Day 11:15 or 12:15, Woods Chapel UMC Missions Building. Familyfriendly serving opportunity packing hygiene kits. WoodsChapelChurch.org KC Northern Train Rides Noon, Line Creek Park. Ride restored trains around a half-mile track in the park. $.75/ride. KCNRR.com Summer Sundays 4:30, Merriam Marketplace. Food trucks, live music, inflatable, kids activities and more! 913.322.5550 Music in the Park 6:00, Rotary Park (Blue Springs). Enjoy a relaxing evening outdoors with free, live musical entertainment. BlueSpringsGov.com

12 Monday Vacation Bible School Thru Friday, Emmanuel Baptist Church. Children will discover how the God of the universe wants a relationship with them. Free. GodFor.Us Days of Knights Thru Friday, Countryside Baptist Church. In all that we do, we will be on a journey to learn about the King of the land. Pre-reg at 913.653.9717.

Out of Library Story Time 10:15, Mill Creek Activity Center. Storytellers offer books, stories, songs, puppets and more. Free. 913.826.2950 Vacation Bible School Thru Friday, Antioch Community Church. Enjoy dinner every night and stay for the fun, music, snacks, games and more. Free. ACCKC.org

Babysitting 101 6:30, MCPL (Liberty). Learn the basic skills everyone needs to babysit, from how to pick up and hold a baby to best business practices. MyMCPL.org

14 Wednesday

15 Thursday Train Station Adventure 10:00, Legoland Discovery Center. Climb, slide, jump and roll around train obstacles inside this all-new play zone! 816.471.4386

13 Tuesday

Farmers Market 7:00, Downtown Lee’s Summit. Shop for a variety of fresh produce, plants, meat, baked goods, crafts and more. 816.246.6598

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

Enchanted Forest Thru Sept 4, Overland Park Arboretum. See the mystical domains of gnomes, fairies, elves and other garden creatures along a trail. OPABG.org

Simple Machines at Play 10:00, Science City. New exhibit! Race a friend down a zipline, scale a massive climber and more! ScienceCity.com

Garfield: The Musical with Cattitude 11:00, the Coterie. A musical adaptation of everyone’s favorite sarcastic tubby tabby, Garfield. TheCoterie.org

Howard and the Wompoopus 10:00, Jo Co Arts & Heritage Center. Join local Illustrator Laura Ballard as she reads her newly released book. Pre-reg at JCPRD.com.

Story Time in the Park 10:00, Central Park. A traditional story time in an outdoor setting. Enjoy books, music, activities and more. 816.513.7500

Thimble Thursday Noon, Garment District Place. Free outdoor concert to enjoy over lunch. KCParks.org

Creative Story Time 11:00, Ceramic Café. Read a book and then paint a ceramic item that goes along with the story. Finish with a snack. $12. CeramicCafeKC.com

Summer Kids Series 10:00 & 12:30, B & B Theatres. Family-friendly movies for only $3/ person Tuesdays through Thursdays. This week’s show: Storks. BBTheatres.com

Family Fun Nights 6:00, Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm. Late night fun on Thursdays. Tonight’s theme is “Farm to Table.” Free admission. Mahaffie.org

Family Feast Day Pizza Shoppe. Get a single topping king pizza, two Shoppe house salads and an order of garlic cheese bread for only $18.99. PizzaShoppe.com

Open Gym Noon, Integrity Gymnastics. A great time to practice, get familiar with the gym and for kids to release energy. $6. IntegrityOP.com

16 Friday Story Time 11:00, Reader’s World (Lee’s Summit). Join us for stories, a snack and a craft. Free; all ages welcome! 816.246.7323

kcparent.com june 2017

june by the numbers

1850 75

Price in cents of a ride aboard the KC Northern Railroad.

Date in 1896 of the 1,769-acre Swope Park’s dedication. The park is still a local landmark and current home of the Kansas City Zoo, Starlight Theatre, Swope Park Soccer Village and more.

The best date to view Venus as it will be at its highest point above the horizon in the morning sky. Look for the bright planet in the eastern sky before sunrise.

On June 1 of this year, the Town of Kansas, in Missouri, named in honor of the Kansa Indians who inhabited the area, was incorporated and granted a charter by Jackson County.

205 Height in feet of the Mamba, Worlds of Fun’s tallest roller coaster.

First day of summer.

Size in feet of the dragon, one of the most popular pieces at Powell Gardens’ Gardens of Myth exhibit.

3000 Number of roses grown every year in the rose garden at Loose Park at 51st & Wornall. June is National Rose Month— take time to stop and smell some!

Distance in miles you can float through Schlitterbahn’s interconnected river system of rapids, currents and tidal waves.

1929 The year commemorated at Shawnee Town 1929, hosting one of the best festivals of summer, Old Shawnee Days, June 1-4.

Food Truck Friday 11:00, Union Cemetery. Come enjoy a tasty and affordable lunch in a most peaceful park space. KCParks.org

Scavenger Saturdays 10:00, Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art. Follow the clues on this “ART-tastic” adventure! 816.753.5784

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

Fiesta Kansas City Thru Sunday, Crown Center. Celebrate Hispanic culture with great music, food, dancing and exhibits. FiestaKansasCity.com

Story Time: The Story of Ferdinand 11:00, National World War I Museum and Memorial. Family-friendly craft and reading about a beloved bull. TheWorldWar.org

Out of Library Story Time 10:15, Mill Creek Activity Center. Storytellers offer books, stories, songs, puppets and more. Free. 913.826.2950

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

Imagination Celebration 11:00 & 2:00, Puppetry Arts Institute. Bring the family for a puppet show by puppeteer Kraig Kensinger. $6. Hazelle.org

Free Fun Fridays 6:00, Mission Family Aquatic Center. Bring the family out for a free swim. Play basketball and join in games and contests. 913.722.8228

Summer Splash Birthday Bash 1:00, Gardner Aquatic Center. Live music, entertainment, cool giveaways and much more! GardnerKansas.gov

39th Street Art Walk 6:00, 39th Street District. Every third Friday the merchants of 39th Street open their doors to local painters, musicians and more! 39thStreetWest.com Rockin’ Party in YOUR Park 6:30, Brown Park (Merriam). Music, games, face painting, inflatable, food and more. 913.322.5550 Ice Cream Train 7:00, Belton, Grandview & KC RR. Enjoy a train ride and an ice cream treat. A great summer evening! BeltonRailroad.org

17 Saturday Urban Kids Fishing Derby 8:00, Spring Valley Park Lake. Come out for a great morning of fishing fun. Kids receive a hot dog and goodie bag. Pre-reg at 913.3345177. Father’s Day Special 9:30, Pioneer Trails Adventures. Hear stories of history from the comfort of mule-drawn covered wagons! Dads are half off today. PioneerTrailsAdventures.com The Lego Batman Movie Days Today & tomorrow, Legoland. Meet Gotham City’s caped crusader and enjoy a themed scavenger hunt. 816.471.4386 Petite Performances 10:00 & 11:00, Kauffman Center. Enjoy a brief performance and an instrument petting zoo. KCSymphony.org Fins for Fashion 10:00, Anita B Gorman Discovery Center. Use molded fish and textile inks to create a beautiful, wearable work of art. 816.759.7300 Hike Swope Park with a Naturalist 10:00, Lakeside Nature Center. Dress appropriately for the weather of the day and enjoy a hike. KCParks.org

Saturday Feeder 4:00, Cedar Cove. Come to see the public feedings of the cats, weather permitting. $5-$7. SaveOurSiberians.org Legends Live 5:00, Legends Outlets. The summer concert series features local talent performing popular music. Free. LegendsShopping.com

T-Bones Baseball 7:05, Community America Ballpark. The T-Bones take on Fargo-Moorhead. Kids eat free on Mondays! TBonesBaseball.com

20 Tuesday Jumperoo 9:00, Urban Air Trampoline Park. A special time for those 5 and under to enjoy access to the playground and trampoline attractions. $10/child. 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

18 Sunday

The Wizard of Oz 10:00, Musical Theater Heritage (Crown Center). Mesner Puppet Theater presents this adaptation of the popular tale. MesnerPuppets.org

FATHER’S DAY

Tots on Tuesday 11:00, Kemper Museum. Bring in your preschooler for a fun and fashionable get-together every third Tuesday. 816.753.5784

Dadfest 8:00, Vineyard Church (KCMO). Celebrate dads! Car show, food trucks, family games, petting zoo, inflatables and more! VineyardKCNorth.com

Fried Chicken Dinner with all the Fixin’s 5:30, Shawnee Town 1929. Feast on a fried chicken dinner just like in the 1920s. $10. Pre-reg at 913.248.2360.

Father’s Day at the Zoo 10:00, Kansas City Zoo. Celebrate Dad with a relaxing day at the zoo. Dads receive complimentary admission. KansasCityZoo.org

Popsicles in the Park 6:30, Various parks (Independence). Enjoy free frozen treats, live children’s entertainment and special activities. ci.independence.mo.us

Father’s Day at WOF and OOF 10:00, Worlds/ Oceans of Fun. Celebrate Father’s Day at the belly flop contest in the Surf City Wave Pool. WorldsOfFun.com

21 Wednesday

Living History Farm Program 10:00, Watkins Woolen Mill. Costumed interpretive staff presents real life in rural Missouri in the 1870s. 816.580.3387 Father’s Day Barbecue 11:00, Rozzelle Court Restaurant (Nelson-Atkins). Enjoy picnic food and music and then explore the museum. Nelson-Atkins.org

19 Monday Thomas & Friends: Explore the Rails Thru Sept 10, Crown Center. All aboard for learning adventures with Thomas and Friends. Free. CrownCenter.com

Super-Size Games 10:00, Jo Co Library (Central Resource). Play familiar games supersized! Jumbo Jenga, Monster-Size Memory and many more. JoCoLibrary.org Little Adventures 1:00, National Museum of Toys and Miniatures. Explore the museum collection and visit the hands-on workshop. 816.235.8000 Read to a Dog 2:00, MCPL (North Oak). Sit down and read to some very good listeners: Pet Partner Reading Education Assistance Dogs. Free. Pre-reg at MyMCPL.org. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone™ in Concert 7:00, Kauffman Center. See the film on a giant screen while the orchestra performs the score. KCSymphony.org kcparent.com june 2017

Legends Live Saturdays, Legends Outlets. The summer concert series features local talent performing popular music. Free. LegendsShopping.com

22 Thursday

23 Friday

Gardens of Myth Thru October, Powell Gardens. Exhibition of incredibly realistic sculptures of goblins, fairies, trolls and more. PowellGardens.org

Simple Machines at Play 10:00, Science City. New exhibit! Race a friend down a zipline, scale a massive climber and more! ScienceCity.com

Summer Kids Series 10:00 & 12:30, B & B Theatres. Family-friendly movies for only $3/ person Tuesdays through Thursdays. This week’s show: Trolls. BBTheatres.com

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.

Thimble Thursday Noon, Garment District Place. Free outdoor concert to enjoy over lunch. KCParks.org

Backyard Campout 5:00, Andersen Park. Grab your tents! Events include hot dog dinner, campfire, outdoor cinema and more! $20/family of four. 913.722.8228

Honk Jr! Thru Sunday, MidAmerica Nazarene University. A heartwarming celebration of being different that is sure to delight audiences of all ages. 913.735.7870

Fourth Friday Art Walk 5:00, Downtown Lee’s Summit. A variety of activities, including art receptions and music in Howard Station Park. DowntownLS.org

Great Lenexa Barbecue Battle Today & tomorrow, Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park. Dine on some tasty barbecue while children enjoy activities and live music. 913.477.7500

A Night Out and Movie 6:00, Macken Park. See emergency and construction vehicles, food trucks, family activities and a movie! NKC.org

Friday Night Family Fun 6:30, KCPL (Plaza). Mesner Puppets presents The True Story of the Three Little Pigs. Free. KCLibrary.org

Life on the Trail 2:00, Nat’l Frontier Trails Museum. Learn more about daily life on the trail in a 30-minute guided walk. Free with museum admission. 816.325.7575. Moo-vie at the Farmstead 7:30, Deanna Rose Farmstead. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and join us for our first ever Moo-vie Night. Free. 913.634.7165

kcparent.com june 2017

Ice Cream Train 7:00, Belton, Grandview & KC RR. Enjoy a train ride and an ice cream treat. A great summer evening! BeltonRailroad.org Stories Under the Stars 7:00, Ernie Miller Nature Center. Enjoy old-fashioned family fun with stories that will delight all ages. $3/person. 913.764.7759 Movies in the Park 8:00, Grandview Amphitheater. Bring the family and watch The Blind Side under the stars. Grandview.org

24 Saturday Species Spotlight 10:00, Kansas City Zoo. On the fourth Saturday of each month, the zoo shines a spotlight on an amazing animal. Today’s animals: giraffes. KansasCityZoo.org Maker Faire Today & tomorrow, Union Station. Family-friendly event that demonstrates what people are inventing, creating and making. MakerFaireKC.com Auditions 10:00, Miller Marley School of Dance. Auditions held for the Teen/Senior Competition Team. MillerMarley.com Hair Bobbing at the Barbershop 10:00, Shawnee Town 1929. Come and share your locks for a good cause. Pre-reg at 913.248.2360.

Putt & Play for Polar Bears 11:00, Paradise Park. Raise money for polar bear pals! Zoomobile, raffle, silent auction and more. ParadiseParkFundraising.com

art + family = FUN 1:00, Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Join us every Saturday and Sunday for free activities for all ages! 816.751.127

KC VisionWalk 12:45, Frank A Theis Park. A signature fundraising event of the Foundation Fighting Blindness. FightBlindness.org

T-Bones Baseball 1:05, Community America Ballpark. The T-Bones take on Sioux City. Kids run the bases after the game! TBonesBaseball.com

25 Sunday CASA Superhero 5K Run/Walk 8:00 ,Corporate Woods. Family-friendly event includes a 5K run/walk, kids fun run, activities and more! CASAKC.org Future Stages Festival 11:00, Kauffman Center. A fun-filled day for families. Experience a diverse range of performances and interactive activities. Free. 816.994.7229

Music in the Park 6:00, Rotary Park (Blue Springs). Enjoy a relaxing evening outdoors with free, live musical entertainment. BlueSpringsGov.com

26 Monday Enchanted Forest Thru Sept 4, Overland Park Arboretum. See the mystical domains of gnomes, fairies, elves and other garden creatures along a trail. OPABG.org 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 Vacation Bible School Thru Friday, Colonial Presbyterian. Imagine a world where kids become inventors who discover they’re crafted by God. ColonialKC.org/fun

READ BOOKS. DO FUN STUFF. EARN FREE STUFF.

Learn more at

mymcpl.org/FUN

kcparent.com june 2017

27 Tuesday 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 Jumperoo 9:00, Urban Air Trampoline Park. A special time for those 5 and under to enjoy access to the playground and trampoline attractions. $10/child. 913.298.0626 Summer Movie Clubhouse 10:00 & Noon, Cinemark (Merriam). See Shrek the Third for only $1! Check out the new Speedy Pack concessions. Cinemark.com Garfield: The Musical with Cattitude 11:00, the Coterie. A musical adaptation of everyone’s favorite sarcastic tubby tabby, Garfield. TheCoterie.org Creative Story Time 11:00, Ceramic Café. Read a book and then paint a ceramic item that goes along with the story. Finish with a snack. $12. CeramicCafeKC.com

28 Wednesday Simple Machines at Play 10:00, Science City. New exhibit! Race a friend down a zipline, scale a massive climber and more! ScienceCity.com

*Valid only on Tuesdays at participating Pizza Shoppe locations. Single-topping pizza only, additional toppings cost extra.

kcparent.com june 2017

Open Gym Noon, Integrity Gymnastics. A great time to practice, get familiar with the gym and for kids to release energy. $6. IntegrityOP.com Jammin’ on the Green 7:00, Shawnee Town 1929. See the Kansas City Ukesters perform refreshing renditions of popular ’20s music. Free. ShawneeTown.org

29 Thursday Train Station Adventure 10:00, Legoland Discovery Center. Climb, slide, jump and roll around train obstacles inside this all-new play zone! 816.471.4386 The Wizard of Oz 10:00, Musical Theater Heritage (Crown Center). Mesner Puppet Theater presents this adaptation of the popular tale. MesnerPuppets.org MakerSpace Passport Program 5:00, Jo Co Library (Central Resource). Come in, make something and take home something awesome. JoCoLibrary.org Family Fun Nights 6:00, Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm. Late night fun on Thursdays. Tonight’s theme is “Fireworks 1860-style.” Free admission. Mahaffie.org

/PizzaShoppe

30 Friday Selfie Scavenger Hunt Thru Sept, KCKS. Explore Kansas City, KS, with this family-friendly scavenger hunt and discover fun things to do and see. VisitKansasCityKS.com Final Fridays 5:00, Lawrence. See hundreds of artists and performers in more than 30 locations. Free fun for everyone! UnmistakablyLawrence.com Independence Day Celebration 6:00, Kenneth W Bernard Park (Lansing). Featuring children’s rides and inflatables, food and beverages and fireworks. Lansing.ks.us Music in the Park 6:30, Howard Station Park (Lee’s Summit). Enjoy a free concert Fridays through Labor Day. Bring lawn chairs or a blanket for seating. DowntownLS.org SoPro Gaming Lock-in 8:00, SoPro Gaming. Enjoy pizza and a night of gaming fun! $20-$30. SoProGaming.com

For TONS of great firework displays all over Kansas City, visit KCParent.com!

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pizzashoppe.com

15320 W. 87th St. Pkwy Lenexa, KS 66219 lenexabaptist.com

GOD & COUNTRY CELEBRATION July 1 & 2, 2017

Join us as we pray for our nation and salute those who faithfully serve.

kcparent.com june 2017

Now opeN ScienceCity.com

FEATURING • Strawberry Swing Pop-Up with local Craft Makers

Kansas City JUNE 24 & 25, 2017

• KCPT Kidszone with Maker activity stations, character appearances and more • Saturday Night ONLY 90.9 The Bridge Concert Headlining: Anderson East* INVENTORS • ARTISTS GARDENERS • FOODISTS CRAFTERS • HACKERS YOUNG MAKERS • ROBOT BUILDERS • SOFTWARE DESIGNERS • DIY-ERS

TICKETS

ON SALE

NOW *Separate ticket purchase

kansascity.makerfaire.com

Explore

Kansas City Zoo

BILLY GOAT S GRUFF YAR D

Now Open! See the ne w kid on the bloc s k

June 2 Jazzoo

(registration required, parents only)

June 10 & 11 Zootastik Learning Fest— World Ocean’s Day June 11 Sporting KC Day June 18 Dad’s receive free admission on Father’s Day June 24 & 25 Species Spotlight— Giraffe & Ungulates June 24 & 25 Penguin March

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.

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