KC Parent Magazine June 2014 by KC Parent Magazine

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why fathers are so important

{top tips} TALKING TO YOUR CHILD’S COACH HELPING KIDS MANAGE RISK

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Will your child be ready for school? With Primrose,® she will be. “She really is getting a well-rounded education, so I feel she’s growing in many aspects — not just reading and writing but as a little girl learning her manners.” Katelyn’s Mom, Primrose Parent ●

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Mosaic Life Care at Shoal Creek Invites You to Friday Film Fests Throughout June

7 p.m. on June 6, 13 and 27 Join us in the courtyard of Mosaic Life Care at Shoal Creek for our Friday Film Fests in June. This event features a family-friendly movie, healthy and delicious snack and dinner options and fun activities for kids of all ages. Movies will start at approximately 8:40 p.m. Admittance is absolutely FREE! To vote for your favorite movie and to register your family for each Friday Film Fest, please visit facebook.com/MosaicLifeCare. Movies under the Stars with your lawn chairs and blankets â&#x20AC;&#x201D; FREE at Mosaic Life Care.

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Mosaic Life Care at Shoal Creek Life Center Entrance 8870 NE 82nd Terrace Kansas City, MO 64158

5 Join us for Family Fun Day coming up July 12th! See myMosaicLifeCare.org/event june for2014 details. kcparent.com

JUNE 2014

DEPARTMENTS SUMMER FUN GUIDE, PG. 40

FEATURES

Talking to Coach Tips for positive communications

Playdates for Mom Get out and have some fun this summer

Faith & Family

Healthy Kids

Word from Dad

Women’s Health

Media Mix

Craft Corner

SPECIAL SECTIONS 20

Camp Guide

Party Guide

Summer Fun Guide

Calendar of Events

Ice Cube Painting A fun summertime craft to beat the heat Our cover dad is Paul with son Roman from Olathe. Cover and select interior photos by KiaBondurant.com Where you find family, you will find us.

FREE June 2014 KCParent.com Since 1985

ON THE COVER Helping Kids Manage Risk

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dads

why fathers are so important

Dandy Dads

Talking to Your Child’s Coach

{top tips} TALKING TO YOUR CHILD’S COACH

Ice Cube Craft

HELPING KIDS MANAGE RISK

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Summertime Sweets

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Beaches & Boats 49

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EDITOR’SLETTER JUNE 2014 Publisher Michael Gimotty Michael@KCParent.com

t’s here! My favorite time of the year! Here are 10 sure signs that it is summer in the Sarver home: 1. Pool bag is packed and in permanent residence by the back door. 2. There is $10 stashed in the key basket for when the ice cream truck drives through the neighborhood. 3. Bedtimes? What are those? 4. The pile of shoes by the door has been replaced with flip flops. 5. No need for scented candles. There is an ever-present sunscreen scent wafting through the halls. 6. Can’t find me? Check the hammock swings on the back patio. That’s where I’ll be, reading a book. 7. Our freezer is stocked with Fla-Vor-Ice pops. 8. Windows are down in car and air conditioner is blasting. Love feeling the warm breeze! 9. There’s a 90 percent chance that tonight’s dinner will be cooked on the grill. 10. Skin is a little darker, and hair is a little lighter, and I’m in a little bit better mood.

Associate Publisher Darrell Dean Darrell@KCParent.com Editor Margaret Sarver Margaret@KCParent.com Art Director Lauren Goldman Lauren@KCParent.com Advertising Sales Darrell Dean Lynn Hawkins Advertising@KCParent.com Electronic Media Manager Kristina Light Kristina@KCParent.com Event Calendar Susan Hawke Calendar@KCParent.com Proofreader Susan Crainshaw Susan@KCParent.com Distribution To be added to our distribution list, e-mail Distribution@KCParent.com

100% LOCAL

Local Contributing Writers Kim Antisdel (Kansas City), William Bartlett (Belton), Jennifer Bosse (Kansas City), Karah Chapman (Kansas City), Wendy Connelly (Overland Park), Tisha Foley (Belton), Jessica Heine (Olathe), Jennifer Higgins, (Kearny), Rebecca Ishum, (Kansas City), Megan Kapple (Kansas City), Stephanie Loux (Olathe), Kate Meadows (Louisburg), Christa Melnyk Hines (Olathe), Kristina Light (Kansas City), Jane Blumenthal Martin (Overland Park), Jim Strahle (Kansas City), Melanie Yunger (Shawnee)

Business Office 11936 W. 119th #335, Overland Park, KS 66213 913.782.3238 phone • 913.681.5139 fax OUR PRODUCTS kansas city’s #1 attraction guide

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Discover family-friendly fun in Kansas City! Festivals, fairs, attractions, museums, free family fun and super fun ways to play, all right at your fingertips. Follow the “All About Kansas City” blog at KCParent.com.

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Margaret Sarver, Editor

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LABOR & DELIVERY ISSUE we’ve got an app for that

DO TOTS & TECH MIX?

{top tips} TALKING TO YOUR CHILD’S COACH HELPING KIDS MANAGE RISK

50 WAYS TO FALL IN LOVE WITH KC

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Happy summer, Kansas City!

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How can you tell it’s summer in your home? I’d love to hear how you celebrate the best season of all! KC Parent has you covered to make sure your summer is terrific. Check out all of the great ideas in our Summer Fun Guide, starting on pg. 40.

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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.

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FAITH&FAMILY

excavating bible stories

ave you noticed your child’s eyes light up as you tell of animals’ flooding into an ark of salvation, a clever woman’s tricking enemy chariots into a crippling bog or a teenage boy’s outwitting a massive giant with the artillery of a slingshot? Children love Bible stories. Not only are these tales chock-full of adventure, they also convey deep and timeless truths that resonate at the level of the soul. Sacred stories are not designed for a shallow reading, but rather are to be slowly and meticulously mined like fathomless treasure troves. Their dynamic nature yields nuggets of golden wisdom every time. Excavating truth and meaning from Scripture is a process theologians call exegesis, which means “to draw out.” While exegesis can be a complicated process even for adults, parents can equip little exegetes with tools to dig deep and unearth narrative gems. Here are a few ways to sift through the sediment and discover treasures rooted deep within in these ancient tales: Get grounded. Dedicate the dig into Scripture with a prayer to encounter the Spirit that breathes life. “Speak, Lord, your servant is listening.” Compare excavation sites. Locate the passage in various forms. For instance, try reading it in at least two different children’s Bibles and a formal translation, then compare and contrast them. Are there any notable differences? Locate boundaries. Context is the key to exegesis. Locate where the story fits within the big story of the Bible. Which stories

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come directly before and after? Who is the biblical author, if known? Who is the author’s intended audience? What is the genre of the biblical book? Does the writing follow a specific structure? Taking Scripture out of its intended context is like mining out of bounds on barren ground. Find the common core. To pull from the Common Core Standards your child knows oh-so-well from school, find text-to-text, text-to-self and text-to-world connections. How does this story relate to other stories your child knows? (Example: Cinderella is strikingly similar to the book of Esther.) How does your child personally identify with the story or characters? Does the story relate to or inform something going on in your child’s world? Consult with fellow excavators. Research what scholars say about the story and you’ll quickly realize how multi-faceted these narratives are! For added fun, seek out cinematic, musical, dramatic and artistic adaptations of biblical narratives, but do so with a critical eye. (Artistic interpretations are subjective and therefore produce the opposite of exegesis, called eisegesis, or “to draw in.” It would be unwise, for instance, to allow Michelangelo to inform one’s mental picture of Moses: His own literal reading of a Latin word resulted in his famous sculpture sprouting horns instead of rays of glory!) Faith columnist Wendy Connelly is a mother of two and seminary student at St. Paul School of Theology, Leawood.

kcparent.com june 2014

HEALTHYKIDS

healthy skin care Teaching our children the importance of a good skin care regimen does not have to be difficult.

skin care regimen with young children is fairly simple and basic, but as they grow, challenges may arise. However, teaching our children the importance of a good skin care regimen does not have to be difficult. Here are some tips for educating your children to deal with their acne. Adults and teens alike should wash their faces two times a day. Just like brushing teeth, this is a learned habit, and over time, it will become part of their everyday routine. For everyone, this routine should include a cleanser, a topical serum and sunscreen. Many different cleansers and serums are on the market, depending on your goal and skin type. Choose an anti-acne or medicated cleanser for breakout-prone skin, a moisturizing and gentle cleanser for sensitive skin or an exfoliating cleanser for dull skin (WebMD). Wash in an outward, circular motion, starting at the center of the face near the nose and working outward toward the hairline Acne’s cause is pores’ becoming clogged with oil. This acne is very common during puberty, because hormones are overactive and overproduce this oil. In addition to washing your face twice daily, avoid touching your face or placing objects (yes, this includes your phone) against your skin, clean all items, such as glasses, that touch your face frequently, keep your hair out of your face, remove makeup at the end of the day and pay atten-

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tion to the shelf life of makeup. And if/when the acne presents itself, do not pick or try to “pop” your zits (KidsHealth.org). For some, over-the-counter medication may be enough to prevent or limit acne, but for others, help from your primary care doctor or dermatologist may be necessary. These doctors may give you insight about which over-the-counter medication would be best for your skin type or prescribe stronger medications. Many prescription topical cleansers and oral medications can make skin extra sensitive to the sun, making sunscreen—the final step in a good skin care regimen—extra important. Like cleansers, there are many types of sunscreen: lotions, sprays, oil-free or tinted—and every one of them should be applied first thing in the morning before you step outside. Be sure to reapply every two hours rain or shine. The teenage years are stressful for a variety of reasons, but using a habitual skin care regimen can help relieve some of the anxiety that acne can cause. Get your kids started washing their faces at a young age, and they will be much more likely to continue to do this as they grow older. Jessica Heine is a labor and delivery nurse. She lives with her family in Olathe. As always, please contact your health care provider with any questions or concerns.

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A BEAUTIFUL RUCKUS HOW HAVING QUADS DERAILED MY PLANS IN A ROYAL WAY

hen I was a kid, I used to get bent out of shape over the littlest things. My mom has a favorite story to tell about my need for ORDER as a child. One day when I was 18 months old, a friend came over to play. Sam had been over often, and our moms were best friends, so we knew each other pretty well. Among my toys was an adorable Fisher-Price tea set that my parents had given me for Christmas. It had a little tray with four cups, four spoons, four plates, a creamer, a sugar pot and, of course, the teapot. I loved that little tea set and enjoyed setting everything just right. And then Sam came over, and the first thing he did was knock everything off of the tray. Little plastic dishes went flying while I started wailing. At the ripe old age of 18 months, I was beside myself when order was disrupted. When I got older, I shared a room with my sister. There was an invisible line down the center of the room separating my Type A personality from her Type B personality. I thought her side was a disaster , and I’m pretty sure she thought that I was [boring] and unimaginative. We drove each other nuts. I wish the perfectionism only extended to how ORDERLY I kept my belongings, but the need for perfect order, lists and schedules was only blossoming. I got very, very cranky when people messed with my plans. Scratch that. I still get cranky. I remember on multiple occasions how my mom would take me aside and tell me that I needed to loosen up because being this

kcparent.com june 2014

rigid in life just wasn’t going to work long term. But, I still took that iron-bound, inflexible attitude straight into our marriage without another thought. And then one day, God decided that we were perfect candidates for quadruplets. Huh?? That severely messed with my plans. I had a list. A timeline. An ideal. A way my life would look and progress. Twins did not fit in there—even sort of. Quadruplets never even crossed my mind. If only I knew that having multiples was just the start of the chaos that was coming my way. But honestly? I think it’s beautiful. Because when they aren’t screaming, they are hilarious toddlers who are learning all the different expressions that their faces make. Because nothing beats an open-mouth, drool-covered kiss from Elijah. Because nothing is cuter than the big wet hug that Ellie gives me as I’m rinsing her hair in the bathtub. Because when one of them does something correctly, they all clap for their sibling as I praise him or her. It’s adorable! Because, without fail, Elijah runs into something daily, and the puzzled expression on his face of “Where did that come from?” still makes me laugh! Because that final tight hug just before they go to bed for the night lets me know that Sean and I are the two most important people in the whole world to them. Because Abby is quite possibly the

cutest little jumper when she is excited about something...unless she’s jumping during nap time when I’m desperate for all four of them to sleep. Because even when they are whining, crying and generally carrying on, they come running to me because they know that I will try to fix it. Because Caleb just wants to be held and reminded that I’ll always, always love him. Because of how deeply I’m in touch with other multiples moms and preemie/ NICU moms. I hear a lot of really stories. Stories of moms who don’t ever get to meet their kids, or whose kids go through excruciating things in the hospital. The stories make my heart hurt and my arms wrap a little tighter around my kids. Two years old is an extremely tough age. I think it’s the hardest so far. And now that my kids have just turned 3, I’ve heard it gets even harder. But I’ll take the screaming, the clinging and the boundary testing, because with it all come the laughing and the cuddling. My days never go according to plan, I’m always running late, and generally this is not the route that I saw my life going.

sad

My plans were derailed in a royal way.

But in the end, I’m so happy that it all adds up to the derailed plans of a beautiful ruckus. Rebecca Ishum and her husband, Sean, live in South Kansas City with their very busy 3-year-old quadruplets. You can follow their adventures at ABeautifulRuckus.com

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“Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist when he grows up.” –Pablo Picasso

art is all around

For a great family scavenger hunt at the Nelson-Atkins, log onto KCParent.com and print your copy before your visit.

kcparent.com june 2014

hile not everyone becomes a Picasso, art is a fundamentally important aspect of childhood. Yes, various forms of art come more naturally to some than others, but let your children try to discover what they’re naturally good at and what they enjoy most. As with most things, your children will feed off of your interest and excitement about art. Simply incorporate a certain aspect of art into something you already enjoy and see where each child takes it. Perhaps you enjoy reading. Discuss what illustrators are and how they bring a story to life through pictures. Find a wordless picture book such as The Lion & the Mouse by Jerry Pinkney and talk about how you can understand a story just by looking at the pictures. You could even fold some blank paper together and write and draw a story together. Maybe photography is up your alley. Talk to your child about looking for beauty or interest when taking a photo. Give your child a camera (they still sell disposables!) and let him take photos. Have the photos printed and put them in a photo album. Let your children help you in the kitchen. Come up with a new recipe or modify a

favorite. I have even let my kids paint animal crackers with colored yogurt. You also can decorate cookies or a pizza. Music is an easy way to incorporate art. Play a variety of background music as your children play or do chores. Play different music for different occasions, such as Celtic music on St. Patrick’s Day or Latin music during taco night. I also play toddler music when they are in the jogging stroller while I run. Nature is another fantastic place to notice art in the beauty of landscaping and flowers. Head out to the Overland Park Arboretum or tour the Loose Park Rose Garden. Don’t forget your camera! Kansas City is a fabulous place for taking kids to art as well. The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art hosts summer art classes, or you can simply take a family field trip to the museum. The Nerman Museum on the Johnson County Community College campus hosts classes for kids throughout the year. The Johnson County Museum, Wonderscope, Kaleidoscope and Kookiedoodle Crafts are also great choices. There are many music and dance classes all around the area, too. A paint your own pottery place makes a fun son/daughter date, and what grandparent wouldn’t love that as a gift? Local craft stores and home improvement stores, such as Michael’s and Home Depot, also offer kids workshops. Mark your calendars for the Plaza Art Fair on Sept. 1921 this year and check out a local car show as a family. Older children can even try their hands at a theater camp or class. Ultimately, art can help children express their feelings, develop fine motor skills and learn to take risks. Children and art tend to go hand in hand if you allow opportunity and accessibility to it. To make things simple, put some crayons and blank paper on your table and see what happens! Stephanie Loux enjoys creating with her two young children. She writes during nap time from her home in Olathe.

kcparent.com june 2014

helping kids

manage risk

I want my kids to be able to be persistent in the face of adversity.

Online resources to check out about encouraging kids to take risks: FreeRangeKids.com with Lenore Skenaz “Our kids are safer than we think, and more competent, too. They deserve a chance to stretch and grow and do what we did—stay out ‘til the streetlights come on.” “Grit” (a famous Ted Talk) by Angela Duckworth Ted.com/talks “Grit is passion over time. Kids and people need to learn how to persevere through failure and difficulty to achieve their goals. They need practice at it.” NPR Q&A on “Teaching Kids to Take Healthy Risks” NPR.org Part of raising a child is helping him or her define boundaries. It’s a balancing act that requires knowing when to let a child take risks in safe environments versus taking risks in a situation where they could endanger themselves or others.

kcparent.com june 2014

“I

am not afraid of storms, for I am learning how to sail my ship,” Louisa May Alcott once said. As parents, we want our children to dream big, but sometimes that means they have to face storms and take risks. Our tendency may be to shelter and protect them, but if we really want our children to soar, they will have to take risks. “Think about what you hope for your kids when they are grown-ups. I want my kids to be happy and competent and productive. None of those things happen by accident. And sometimes, becoming productive or competent or even happy means trying something a few times, or even a few dozen, before I figure it out,” Beth Dusin, Liberty mother of two, says. “I want my kids to be able to be persistent in the face of adversity. So I have to let that happen and encourage them in the process of trying again.” It can be easy to want to control everything they do. But letting kids take risks with easy things, like ordering a new food off the menu, or dyeing a streak of their hair with Kool-Aid or trying out for a new sport will form a comfort level with new things that will pay off as they get older. “As parents, we have to develop comfort

with the process of kids’ trying new things— new activities, new friends, new foods, new hairstyles—and figuring them out,” Dusin says. Gail Stark, Liberty mother of two, had a difficult decision to make about moving from a small town in middle Missouri to a much bigger one in Liberty. It was a risk— from finding friends to more competition at tryouts—but because she’d built a comfort level with taking risks when the children were younger, her kids were okay with the move. “In the long run, I am glad we moved here, as there were a lot more opportunities here for my kids,” Stark says. Letting children take risks begins with the parents. “I think most of the time it’s the parents’ fear of their kids’ failing that holds them back. It’s painful to watch your kid fail, so you don’t put them in positions where that’s a possibility,” Jennifer Bilen, Liberty mother of three, says. “The kids can actually deal with it pretty well if the parents can. Kids seem like they’re naturally inclined to take chances. The parents need to help them learn from the failures and make sure the kids know it’s okay to fail. If the parent throws a fit and blames everyone else for the failure, the kid learns nothing.” Knowing when to hold back and not try something is an important skill that needs to be taught, as well. “I think talking honestly about goals is important, too. Parents sometimes tell their kids they can be good at everything when really they can’t. It’s like Atticus’s closing statement in To Kill a Mockingbird: We’re not really all created equally. My daughter Sophia is a great piano player, but she’s terrible at sports. Could she be good at sports? Yeah. But she will have to work harder than her sister. The same is true for her sister and music. We each have individual talents and strengths, and that needs to be recognized as well,” Bilen says. Jennifer Higgins is a freelance writer, mother and teacher from Kearney.

WORDFROMDAD

Will you be my s uperhero? Are you interested in changing a child’s life by welcoming a boy or girl with intellectual/developmental disabilities into your home and becoming their “real-life superhero”?

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For more information on how you can become a therapeutic foster family for a child with special needs, please contact Lakemary’s Supported Family Living Coordinator at (913) 671-1800 ext. 207 today.

“B

ill, what do you want to do with this?” Sandi held up a small cardboard box. Packing for a move forced hard decisions about what to discard and what to keep, but that box was special. After my parents divorced, I missed my dad and made a belt for him. It wasn’t much, only a yard of leather in a simple braid, some polish and a plain buckle. I gave it to him for Father’s Day, and he wore it until his girth made it obsolete. It disappeared and, eventually, I forgot about it. After he had passed, I got this box in the mail along with a note from my stepmother. She wrote of how Dad treasured the belt I made and, even though he couldn’t wear it again, he refused to throw it away. I opened the box and lifted the belt, stiff and with signs of hard use. The leather was stretched, and the holes for the rusted and tarnished buckle were oval, rather than round. I rolled it up and placed it back in the box, then sealed it with tape. It felt so small and so light in my hand. “I think we’ll save it.” She lifted a ragged t-shirt. “What about this?” After my first marriage collapsed, Laura gave it to me for Father’s Day. I wore it for years until I feared another washing would destroy it. Then, I put it away. I stared at the shirt Sandi held in her hands, but I didn’t see the faded blue, the holes or the frayed collar and cuffs. Now, I knew why my dad treasured that belt. I saw my daughter, saying without words that she would always love me. “I’d rather keep it.” Sandi tried to hide her grin. “I knew you would.”

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William R. Bartlett lives in Belton with his family. kcparent.com june 2014

Special Advertising Section

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Interactive Education Guide available at KCParent.com

Fairytale Ballet

KC Parent’s

Camp Guide

Ceramic Cafe

Ceramic Cafe’s summer program provides instruction in a variety of ceramic art techniques including hand building with clay, ceramiccpainting and glazing techniques and also glass fusing. Fun themes change every camp session, so kids can sign up for their favorite, or enroll more than once. All sessions encourage indi-

vidual creative expression. Camp sessions are divided by age groups. Creative Kids is for ages 5-7, Aspiring Artists is for ages 8 and up. One day Workshops are also offered throughout the summer. See display ad on pg 54. Visit www.CeramicCafeKC.com for add’l info and registration form.

Fairytale Ballet Academy Ballet

Experience the enchanting world of A Fairytale Ballet this summer! Exclusively for ages 2-8, camps combine cherished childhood literature, with dance, music, props and beautiful costumes each week. Children will create a take-home prop in our prop workshop. Watch your little ballerina blossom when she becomes Cinderella and other favorite princesses this summer! Camps and classes are offered Mon.- Sat. in the morning and afternoon, JuneAug. 913.671.7944. See display ad on pg. 20. www.AFairytaleBallet.com

Faulkner’s Pony Camp

Want your kids to learn what it’s like to take care of a pony? Have them join us for pony

18 months-6yrs 5-12yrs

Prairie Village 913-671-7944

SUMMER CAMPS FAIRYTALE BALLET CAMPS 2-6yrs Costumes, props, crafts & games!

Ages 5-12

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ACADEMY WORKSHOPS 6-12yrs

Choreography, Costume Design, Stage Make-up & a mini-show! Swan Lake, Coppelia & Sleeping Beauty

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Fairytale Ballet & Academy

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kcparent.com june 2014

Cam

$89Fee

Summer Camps June 9th-July 18th • Mon-Fri, 8am-11am Camp Director-Goran Hunjak 19 years Pro and US National Team.

913-284-7601 or Register online:

www.victoryinsoccer.org

CAMPGUIDE camp to find out. Faulkner’s Pony Camp is a great way for kids to get close to the Faulkner’s herd with a wrangler at their side. Kids will learn important equine skills and how to groom, feed and ride ponies during this fun week at the ranch. 816.761.1234. See display ad on pg. 24. www.FaulknersRanch.com/pony-camp.php

The KCYA Community School of the Arts

The KCYA Community School of the Arts (CSA) offers children performing and visual arts classes, camps and private instruction on the campus of St. Teresa’s Academy. Our fabulous summer camps and classes begin on June 9th. Summer Camps are held at our convenient Brookside location. Scholarships are available. 816.531.4022. See display ad on pg. 24. www.KCYA.org

KC Watersports

Cool off with a day filled with fun on the water! KC Watersports offers a Watersports Day Camp for all ability levels. Whether you have never tried wakeboarding, waterskiing or wake-skating before or if you ride every weekend we have a camp for you. Camps are offered from 8:30 am – 3:00 pm, Monday – Friday and age 7+ are welcome to join us. Find out more information at www.KCWatersports.com/day-camps or call 913.783.4300. See display ad on pg. 21.

kcparent.com june 2014

camper communication

CAMPGUIDE

chool’s out, and camp is in session. Regardless of whether this is your child’s first or fifth time off to camp, every camper knows that mail call is an exciting time. Tara Markley, K-State Research & Extension Johnson County 4-H agent and camp director, says, “We encourage parents to mail handwritten letters with encouraging messages, such as ‘we hope that you are having a great time’ or ‘get out there and try something new and exciting.’” She notes that it’s important to keep the messages positive to curb homesickness. “When parents write letters that focus on how much they miss their child,” she says, “they start missing home and miss out on great camp experiences that can help them to grow.” Angela Castro, mother of seasoned

kcparent.com june 2014

campers, agrees. “Our kids loved having their names called during mail call, so we made sure to send letters and small packages ahead of time to ensure they made it there in time for the kids to get them. We kept it fun with funny messages, little trinkets, and decorated the packages with designs.” Castro also notes that they keep the communication fun so the kids can grow from camp life. “Everyone grows from the camp experience if you let it work its magic, even Mom and Dad,” says Castro. Jill Smith, mother and school social worker, also recognizes that camp communication should encourage growth. “While the letting go for parents can be a challenge, you are giving your child a gift by allowing him to go to overnight camp and gain independence,” Smith says. “When our daughter

went off to overnight camp, we placed notes randomly throughout her luggage and in pockets of clothes to encourage her to have a great time.” Markley encourages the little notes. “It’s fun to hide encouraging notes throughout your camper’s luggage or bedding.” Markley also recommends sending your camper with stationery and self-addressed stamped envelopes to friends and family. “There is usually some down time at camp, and these are the times when kids start to get homesick. A good way to fill this time is in writing letters home to tell about all the adventures they area having,” she says. “This helps them to keep in touch while keeping up the excitement for camp.” Markley adds that letter writing can sometimes feel like a lost art and that the idea of letting today’s youth explore the sentiment of a handwritten letter is a good experience.

Sending kids off to overnight camp? Visit KCParent.com for a list of helpful things to pack (and to leave at home!).

Camps do have phones, computers and internet, however, communicating in these formats is typically discouraged outside of emergencies. Says Markley, “We discourage calling home, because we want to encourage the kids to be present in the camp experience, grow and become more independent. Our goal is to have a partnership with parents where we do all we can to ensure the safety and growth of their children so they can feel comfortable letting them go to fully enjoy the camp experience for that week.” Castro and Smith both say camps often discourage phone calls. “When my children went to camp, phone calls and texts were discouraged so that the campers could receive the full benefit of being away at camp,” says Castro. “Cell phones or technology for campers to contact home were not allowed,” adds Smith. But don’t worry about not knowing what to expect when it’s time to communicate with your camper. There will be plenty of information provided to help you navigate what, when, where and how to send your messages to your kids. “The camp provided us a great deal of information on what we could do to communicate and the camp’s purpose and rules on communication,” Smith says. “Each camp gave suggestions in their literature about what would be appropriate for communication,” says Castro. Markley points out that this is common. “We distribute family guides for what to expect for camp and the rules so that families can prepare well in advance,” she says. She also recommends the American Camp Association website for more tips, tricks and guidance on camp life. So have no fear, take that deep breath, hide those notes, mail those letters and know that your young one is off to a great adventure! Karah Chapman is a school psychologist in the Kansas City area. She still remembers the joy of overnight camp mail call!

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CAMPGUIDE Misty River Equestrian Center

Misty River Equestrian Center is gearing up for another summer of fun! There are three camps you can attend for ages 4- 14. Each child will learn grooming, saddling, horse safety, horse bathing, horse care and how to ride. Other activities include games on horseback, crafts and much more! Camps start June 6th through July 2nd. Save the dates for a time of inspiration and fun with the horses. See display ad on pg. 21. www.MistyRiverReq.com

Paint, Glaze & Fire Ceramics & Coffee House

Camp ARTRAGEOUS! Paint Glaze & Fire Ceramics & Coffee House is offering summer camp for its 16th season! Your child will learn new techniques and have fun creating art in our mixed media (ceramics, clay, canvas & glass fusion). Class size is limited - sign up early! Check it out at www.PaintGlazeAndFire.net and find more information as well as a registration form. For more information on these and many other fun and creative programs, visit the website. See display ad on pg. 58. 913.661.CLAY (2529).

Science City

Science City Summer Camp 2014 provides a fun, hands-on environment to explore exciting STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and math) topics. Campers ages 6-12 engage in

life science, physical science, art and technology each week! Space is limited! Camps run June 9-Aug. 8, Monday through Friday, 9:00-4:00. Early and late care available. $180/week for Union Station Members, $200/non-members. For more information email Summer@UnionStation.org or call 816.460.2226. See display ad on pg. 62.

Tiger Rock Martial Arts

Train all summer at Tiger Rockâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Taekwondo Summer Camp. For only $169, you can spend your summer training at our studio. Fee includes training jersey. Hurry! You must register for this offer by June 1. Classes fill up every summer, so register today! 913.829.8818. See display ad on pg. 23. www.KCTigerRock.com

Vineyard Church of Overland Park

Looking for a low-cost, fun-packed, summer day camp for your kids? At Vcamp - Weird Animals, kids will learn about some of Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most creative creations! Vcamp is for kids who have completed kindergarten to fourth grade and will run from 10:00 am to 4:30 pm daily. $40 for the week includes lunch and snacks; wrap around care is available at no additional charge. Register at www.VineyardOP.org by June 30. See diplay ad on pg. 21.

Victory Soccer Camp

Victory Soccer Camp is directed by former US National Team member, Goran Hunjak. He played professional soccer for 19 years and coached professionally. Victory Soccer Camp provides professional quality soccer instruction in a fun and exciting environment, helping youth improve skill, gain confidence, and develop a positive self image. Our camp is designed with various levels of athletic ability including beginner level. For more information or register go to www.VictoryInSoccer.org or call 913.284.7601. See display ad on pg. 20.

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his year, 10 million children will tote their sleeping bags to camp, but they may not do much sleeping. So while you’re helping them pack their bags, take a few extra steps to help kids sleep well. With the shuteye they need, they’ll enjoy all camp has to offer—and return refreshed, happy and ready to fill you in on all of their adventures.

pack some comfort

Don’t forget to pack Teddy. According to leading pediatrician and author Dr. Harvey Karp, comfort items like special stuffed animals and pillows become particularly important when kids sleep in an unfamiliar place, because they create a soothing sense of security at bedtime. Older kids might appreciate a small framed photo of the family or a note from Mom and Dad.

check nighttime temps

While you’re checking the daytime weather forecast for your child’s camp destination, make sure to check the nighttime forecast, too. Nighttime temperatures may be much lower—or higher—than what your child is used to, particularly if he’ll be sleeping in a cabin or tent. Pack several pairs of pajamas and thick socks for layering.

head off embarrassing moments

Around 7 to 10 percent of kids wet the bed at age 8, an age at which many kids are considering their first sleep-away camp experience. If your child is anxious about the possibility of an accident and mortified at the thought of packing disposable training pants, talk to her pediatrician. Pediatric urologist Dr. Steve Hodges says a short-term prescription for a medication like Desmopressin,

Pay to Play!

which slows nighttime urine production, can provide a temporary solution for camps and other circumstances that make bedwetting especially embarrassing.

send moonlight munchies

After an action-packed day at camp, young campers may feel their stomachs growl just as the counselor announces “Lights out!” If camp rules allow it, pack a few pre-bedtime snacks so kids don’t hit the sack hungry. Whole grain crackers, granola, cold cereal and protein bars travel well; tryptophan-rich foods like nuts, sunflower seeds or soybeans score added sleepy points.

say no to noise

A child who is particularly sensitive to noise may find camp’s group-sleeping arrangements disconcerting. And strange outdoor sounds can trigger nighttime fears in timid campers. Consider packing earplugs so campers can drift off to sleep in silence, or an iPod if they prefer falling asleep to music.

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home sleepy home

No matter what you do, kids probably won’t adhere to their regular sleep schedules at camp. “When they return, getting back to the normal routine is important,” says pediatric sleep specialist Dr. Krisztina Harsanyi. It may take a few days to a week to adjust to their regular schedule, so Harsanyi advises postponing sleepovers and trips until after kids have spent some quality time catching up on sleep.

Protecting kids from social media gossip • Summer safety slip ups • Balancing home & work life

Malia Jacobson is a writer and mom of two who specializes in children’s sleep and health topics. kcparent.com june 2014

dads are

d ndy a

Why fathers are so important

KCParent.com has a complete guide of attractions that honor dad on June 15.

everal years ago I was sitting with my grandmother at one of our huge extended family birthday parties. My sister was out of town, and we were watching my brother-in-law wrangling their kids. He had a toddler in one arm and was refereeing what looked like a wrestling match between his two older boys. My grandmother looked at my brother-inlaw and asked, “Are you babysitting the kids?” His response: “It’s not babysitting when they’re your own kids.” I always think of that story when, every year, my husband asks to go to the Overland Park Arboretum for Father’s Day. “To spend time with my family,” he always says. “You

kcparent.com june 2014

only get so many of these holidays when the kids are this young.” This Father’s Day family tradition always reminds me of that conversation with my grandmother, and how dramatically the role of “father” has changed over the past few generations. “Men are much more comfortable in their role as caregivers today,” says Maxine Benson, recently retired co-director of the Jewish Community Center’s Child Development Center, who has worked with hundreds of families and children during her 44 years in childcare. “When I was a child, dads used to ‘babysit’ when Mom was gone. You never saw a father at an open house, parent teacher conference or PTA meeting, with the exception of a rare widower.” Parenting is now a shared activity, Benson observes. “Since my own childhood, things like divorce and the prevalence of women in the workforce may have forced some of this change. However it came into being, society now views an involved father as a strength, not a weakness. And that’s a good thing.” Today’s current crop of parents might

think that it is their own evolution that has changed society’s acceptance and awareness of this new era of parenting (after all, who among us can’t claim at least a couple of stayat-home dads as friends?), but we really need to look to Baby Boomers to see where the trend started. “With the Baby Boomers, all of a sudden divorce became a common phenomenon, and dads were raising their children— on their own—every other weekend,” says Benson. “Today, when I look at the parents that surround me—especially the younger fathers—I realize that fathers today are more committed than ever to spending time with their children and providing the emotional support their kids need—not just the financial support,” continues Benson. Benson points to an old adage that says men raise children the way they were raised. “That’s not so true anymore,” she says. “Today’s father is dedicated to being a good father. He wants to break the cycle of disinterested fatherhood from previous generations and work on becoming a better dad that society embraces today.” One of the most beautiful changes she’s seen in her 40-plus years working in childcare is watching marriages turn into equal partnerships. “Each partner is equally committed to sharing in the responsibility of raising their children,” she says. While we can’t all be experts on parenting like Benson, it’s pretty easy to recognize and appreciate these changes and celebrate the men in our lives. Men who are more available for their kids. Men who care so much about being great dads. I know this Father’s Day, I’m going to appreciate my husband just a little bit more. Jane Blumenthal Martin and her husband both enjoy actively parenting their two children in Overland Park.

Why Dads Are Great

Dads let kids fail. Yes, moms, we know it’s true: Most of us want to rush in and fix everything for our kids, preventing falls on the playground, helping make that picture of a dog look like an actual dog or helping them clean up the mess they made.

Dads let kids learn. “Dads take on more risk to help their kids learn lessons on their own,” says Benson. Which is not to say they won’t jump in if absolutely necessary. “In essence, they may be okay letting their children skin their knees, but they don’t want them to break their legs.”

Dads are more objective. If you read Men Are from Mars, Women

Effects of Adult Speech on Grammar Development An Intervention Study

Are from Venus, it’s no secret the two sexes handle decision making differently. Men tend to keep the emotional piece out of the process. This may be infuriating to women at times, but it’s great for kids

Does your child have a language delay?

to see different ways to resolve issues!

of Adult Speech on Grammar Development with Specific Language Delay

cess information—differently. According in Preschoolers to Benson, “Women want to converse back. Men tend to let their kids talk, reallyPURPOSE

To study the effects of adult speech on grammatical development of listening to what they are saying. Oftenpreschoolers with language delay.

times, they guide their children to finding WHO QUALIFIES? their own resolution, rather than suggestChildren 4 and 5 years old with ing solutions.”

developmental delays that appear to be specific to language.

Dads have louder voices.

BENEFITS

Caregivers receive a summary of all testing for their child, whether or not the child qualifies for the study.

CAREGIVER RESPONSIBILITIES

Bring your child to KUMC for up to 4 preliminary evaluations of your child’s communication skills. Attend 10 study sessions at KUMC or at home.

“No matter what people say, children Effects of Adult Speech on Grammar Development Contact: Dr. Marc E. Fey have a different level of respect for their

Contact: Dr. Marc E.KU FeyMedical Center Hearing & Speech Dept. • fathers because of the voice,” says BenHearing & Speech Dept. • KU Medical Center (913) 588-0574 • mfey@kumc.edu visit our website alliedhealth.kumc.edu/school/research/fey (913) 588-0574 • mfey@kumc.edu son. “I’ve seen this phenomenon play or out hundreds of times—even if the dad is the weaker disciplinarian!”

To study the effects of adult speech on grammatical development of preschoolers with language delays.

BENEFITS

Dads are better listeners. Or better stated, dads listen—and proEffects

PURPOSE

Children receive 24 intervention sessions either in their home or at KUMC. Children receive a gift card good for new books. Caregivers receive a summary of all testing for their child, whether or not the child qualifies for the study.

WHO QUALIFIES? 3 and 4 year old children with developmental delays that appear to be specific to language.

CAREGIVER RESPONSIBILITIES Bring your child to KUMC for up to 4 preliminary evaluations of your child’s communication skills. Allow your child to participate in 24 intervention sessions, twice a week for 12 weeks. Bring your child to KUMC for testing sessions half way through and at the end of the study. Families are reimbursed for travel to KUMC.

kcparent.com june 2014

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kc moms’ party tips Have “filler” activities for the unexpected moments. Kids can decorate party masks or place mats made from poster board. Natalie Morrison, Shawnee Involve the birthday child in the planning. Although surprises are fun, kids enjoy their special day much more if they are a part of the planning. Barbara Beatty, Kansas City Instead of paper cups (which always seem to spill), get bottled drinks with sports tops on and put each child’s name on a sticker on each one. No confusion-less waste. Trina Carpenter, Kansas City Get a phone number where you can reach parents as kids are coming into the party. This way if there is an accident or you need to send one of them home you have the correct number. Jamie Fields, Raytown I always plan a few more activities than I expect we’ll have time for. That way, if one is a huge flop, I can switch to the next activity on the list of birthday games. Chrissy Kelly, Overland Park Don’t go at it alone! You can’t play musical chairs, cut the cake and direct traffic to the bathroom at the same time. Enlist one or more “big people” to help you at the party. Mary Fitzgerald, Olathe

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an ingredient for life

the importance of blood donations

Donation Tidbits: Get out your skinny jeans: “Every time you donate blood, you lose a pound,” says Kay Reeves. “I could share a lot of great reasons to donate blood, but losing a pound beats all of them!” Labels don’t matter: “The rarest type of blood is the blood that isn’t on the shelf,” says Bridget Smith. In other words, they want whatever you’ve got! The big O: Though all blood is constantly needed, O Negative is a universal blood type and is always in demand. It can be used with any blood type, but only 7 percent of the population is O Negative. More than blood: Besides blood donors, the CBC is also in need of platelet donors. The shelf life of platelets is only five days!

kcparent.com june 2014

s any chef will tell you, a recipe is only as good as its ingredients. Some of those ingredients are less important than others, while a dish can be ruined without one certain element that is vital to its success. For the Community Blood Center of Greater Kansas City, that vital ingredient never changes—blood is the one element that is always needed to complete the recipe for a saved life. With six locations in various parts of the region, CBC is committed to providing a life-saving blood supply to more than 70 hospitals and 70 counties in Missouri and Kansas. By utilizing blood drives and partnering with organizations all over the community, CBC maintains a consistent inventory level of blood, sending out 3,600 units to local hospitals each week—or at least they try to. As Bridget Smith, director of donor recruitment, explains, “The shelf life for blood is only 42 days. Once that time is up, the blood is no longer useable. But the need never goes away.” With a continually ticking expiration date on the blood supply, CBC looks to the Kansas and Missouri communities for blood donations. Unfortunately, many people share the same mentality when it comes to blood donation: Someone else will do it. If only that were true. “On average, about 37 percent of the population is eligible to donate blood,” says Kay Reeves, manager of donor recruitment. “The biggest hurdle we face is that only 7

percent of those eligible donors ever actually donate their blood.” With numbers like that, it’s no wonder the CBC is in constant danger of running low on its supply. The silver lining? There’s an easy solution: more people in the chairs, donating more often. “The average donor only donates 1.5 times per year, when they can actually donate every 56 days,” says Reeves. “If that average donor increased their donations to just two times a year, there would never be a shortage of blood. It makes that much of a difference. If we added more donors to our list, we’d have even less of an issue.” It really is a no brainer. Blood saves lives, and that life being saved could someday be yours. So if you’re considering giving back to your community in a quick, easy and instantly gratifying way, giving blood is as good as it gets. And there’s no time like the present. “We get 22 percent of our blood donations from high school students during school blood drives,” explains Smith. “When those students are home for three months in the summer, they aren’t at blood drives. That’s when we really need the community to step up and come forward.” The CBC encourages blood donation any time a donor is available, and they make it easy. On any given day, there is likely one of the more than 2,500 annual blood drives going on near you. In addition, the CBC has five locations that take blood on a daily basis, and you can easily make an appointment online to schedule your donation. The CBC understands that donating blood or platelets for the first time can be a bit nerve-racking, so the staff encourages you to put yourself at ease by becoming educated. Read up on becoming a blood or platelet donor at SaveALifeNow.org and determine whether you’re an eligible donor. And if you are? Don’t wait. After all, for every one blood donation you make, you are helping as many as two patients. That’s a gift worth giving over and over again. Kim Antisdel is a Kansas City-based writer, interior designer and sales rep. Her favorite place to write is curled up on the couch with her two rescue cats and two rescue dachshunds fighting for a spot on her lap. As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns.

WOMENSHEALTH

dental health A

s moms, we are typically the ones who oversee our family’s dental health. Dental care, of course, prevents problems such as tooth decay, but the latest research suggests that gum disease can lead to other problems in the body, such as heart disease. Fortunately, there are ways to keep teeth strong and gums healthy from birth to old age. Simply put, brush and floss every day and see your dentist twice a year. Here are few specific tips for a lifetime of good dental health.

Infants and children: • Clean your baby’s teeth every day, once they are present. • Under age 2, there’s no need for toothpaste; just use water. • Don’t let your baby sleep with a bottle, which can leave milk or juice sitting on the teeth, causing decay. • Encourage children to eat low-sugar, healthy snacks. • Take your children to the dentist regularly. Teens: • Brush twice a day, minimum, with fluoride toothpaste. • Floss daily. • Don’t smoke. • Wear protective headgear during sports. • See your dentist every six months.

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Starting good dental habits early is critical. “The younger children start good habits, such as brushing twice a day and flossing once a day, they won’t question it later...they just do it,” says registered dental hygienist Angie Steiger. “Whatever your children see you do, they will do…you are their role model.” Melanie Yunger is a local nurse practitioner and mom trying to instill good dental habits in her children! As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns.

Special Beginnings

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Adults: • Brush at least twice per day with fluoride toothpaste. • Floss daily. • Don’t smoke. • Ask about medicines you are taking and side effects that might damage your teeth. • Look inside your mouth regularly for sores that don’t heal or irritated gums. • See your dentist every six months.

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COMMUNICATING WITH

YOUR CHILD’S C ACH

Should kids be required to play sports? Log onto KCParent.com to read the pros and cons of requiring sports participation.

kcparent.com june 2014

f your children play sports, you probably realize the realities of participation: Most kids won’t go pro, and winning is secondary to playing hard and learning valuable life skills. However, times may arise when you, as a parent, have a concern you would like to communicate with the coach. Perhaps your child is struggling a bit, or maybe he would like the opportunity to play a different position on the team. Whatever the concern may be, there are times a parent needs to step in and chat with the coach in an attempt to resolve the issue. Here are some tips for communicating effectively:

BEFORE THE DISCUSSION

Talk to your child first. There is a chance that the concern is yours only and your child does not share the same feelings. Listen to what he has to say about the situation without injecting your opinions. Depending on his age and maturity level, he may even be able to handle talking to the coach himself if he feels there is an issue. Make an appointment to talk in person. Trying to catch the coach before or after a game or practice, when there are many distractions and other parents and players are within earshot, is not an ideal time for a discussion. Bonnie, a Raymore mom of two, has met with coaches on occasion to discuss concerns. “I do feel the best way to communicate

with the coach is without the child around,” she says. Explain that you would like to speak one-on-one and decide together on the best time and place. Consider email or a phone call. A face-to-face discussion is often the best route to a resolution, as words are less likely to be misconstrued, and body language can be read. However, if schedules or other factors don’t allow for an in-person meeting, emails or phone calls can work, too.

your child’s point of view. Listen attentively. After you voice your concern, step back and listen to the coach’s response. Make sure you don’t harbor a preconceived notion about how you think the problem should be solved; the coach may offer suggestions you had not considered. Be open to other viewpoints. Remember who’s in charge. The coach probably has several years of experience in the sport; ultimately, he or she is the one to make final decisions. “Sometimes parents only want their kid to be happy…they don’t understand that I’m trying to do what’s best for the team as a whole,” explains Matt, an Overland Park baseball coach. Thank the coach. This person took time out of a busy schedule to meet with you and (hopefully) try to resolve the problem; express gratitude for the feedback.

AFTER THE DISCUSSION

Offer your help. Ask if there is anything you can do to help your child with the sport. If the coach feels your young athlete needs more experience to play a starting position, find out what drills can be done at home. Take it to the next level. If you feel you have a legitimate concern that impacts your child in a negative manner and it is not resolved after speaking with the coach, consider talking to the next person in charge, usually an athletic director or program director. Follow the same guidelines as when talking to the coach. Above all, trust your instincts. Most coaches in youth sports model ethical behavior and place emphasis on teaching skills rather than winning every game. However, some coaches take their authority too far and become abusive—either physically, emotionally or sexually. Listen to that inner voice; if you feel something is not right, contact authorities right away. Tisha Foley’s two children have participated in soccer, tee ball and gymnastics and have had terrific coaches. The Foleys make their home in Belton. Cartoon by Jim Strahle who makes his home in Kansas City.

DURING THE DISCUSSION

Begin on a positive note. “Emma really enjoys playing softball, and we think you’re doing a great job as a coach” is more likely to lead to a productive conversation than starting with “We have a real problem here, and you need to fix it.” Put yourself in the coach’s shoes. Remember that coaches get a lot of input from parents and might feel overwhelmed trying to do what they think is best for the team AND avoiding disgruntled parents and players. Don’t make demands or threats. Lisa, a Lee’s Summit soccer coach, appreciates parents who are composed rather than confrontational when addressing concerns. “Problems are much easier to solve when both sides are calm and cooperative,” she says. Focus on the problem, not the person. You might not agree with every decision the coach makes, but criticism will get you nowhere. Calmly state the concern without attacking the person in charge. Explain how the problem affects your child. Maybe Johnny feels he’s a great shortstop; instead he’s always in right field, which makes him dread game time. Explaining this will help the coach see things from

Do: Set a good example. Children model their parents’ behavior; speaking badly of the coach or showing a look of disgust when you don’t agree with the decisions will teach your child it’s okay to be disrespectful. Do: Have an open line of communication with the coach; let him know when your child is sick, injured, has health issues, or when she must miss a practice or game. Do: Respect the coach’s decisions. Do: Help your child succeed by providing proper equipment and making sure she gets enough sleep, eats well and practices at home. Don’t: Coach your child from the stands. Instead, offer words of encouragement. Don’t: Yell at the coach from the sidelines when you don’t agree with a strategy. Don’t: Lose your cool. Remember, it’s just a game!

kcparent.com june 2014

2014

We’ve Titanic

New Gallery First tribute in the world devoted to the Musicians aboard ✔ Walk the $1 million exact replica of the Grand Staircase ✔ Touch an Iceberg ✔ Steer the ship ✔ Many interactive exhibits ✔ Over 400 artifacts

Did you know 40 Nations traveled on the Titanic?

✔ Receive a boarding pass Find us on Facebook: Titanic Museum Attraction & Twitter: TitanicUSA

R E S E R VAT I O N S : 34

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( 8 6 6 )

4 8 8 - 3 9 8 5

Built a Permanent Interactive Museum Attraction in Branson

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W W W. T I TA N I C B R A N S O N . C O M kcparent.com june 2014

Celebrating

Our 2Oth Season!

Branson’s #1 Choice For Great Food & Entertainment! Dine on a savory feast as you enjoy the most amazing entertainment and liveliest competition in Branson! Tighten your bootstraps as the competition revs up with a powerful performance, daring demonstrations of riding skill, and spectacular showmanship! Tip your hat to rousing musical numbers and flag-flying patriotism that lifts you up and leaves you ready for more.

Reserve Early! 800-520-5544 or 417-336-3000 www.dixiestampede.com FOLLOW US

kcparent.com june 2014

“Scan Me For Fun!”

family fun in

branson

Once in a while, it’s fun to be “a little bit country,” and Branson, the vacation capital of the Midwest, is the perfect destination for just such a family vacation! In addition to world-class music shows, on your next trip to Branson take in these two family-friendly destinations.

Why kids say once is not enough. -first-class maid JAMIE The first time is magic. The second or third time is magic magnified a hundred times. I’ve asked some of our “regular kiddies” what it is about the Titanic Museum Attraction that brings them back? They say there’s so much to see and do that they couldn’t possibly experience it all in one visit. They know that new exhibits and interactive children’s events happen all the time. There are always new Titanic artifacts to surprise them. Now, of course, that could be because our ship’s admiral, Mary Kellogg-Joslyn, is constantly reshuffling the decks to make room for new and exciting Titanic tributes. Admiral Mary knows how children think and what it takes to hold their interest. You might say 20 years as a senior executive at Disney has something to do with that. Visit as a special guest and leave as a Titanic passenger.

Titanic Museum Attraction

New “Roman Ride of Fire” debuts at Dixie Stampede, celebrating its 20th season in 2014. Dixie Stampede Dinner Attraction celebrates its 20th season with the all-new, amazing “Roman Ride of Fire,” making the show bigger, brighter and bolder than ever before! In 2014, Dixie Stampede brings new equestrian excitement to guests as they experience dramatic demonstrations of horsemanship and nearly impossible feats of skill and agility. The “Roman Ride of Fire” highlights a special type of trick riding featuring the rider’s standing astride two horses moving side-by-side, with precise timing at a full gallop, jumping the horses through the ring of fire. “I want my guests have some jaw-dropping equestrian excitement this year,” says Dixie Stampede owner Dolly Parton. “Part of the fun at my Dixie Stampede is giving the audience the unexpected. It’s just amazing!”

For tips on more to do in Branson, car ride games for kids, dealing with car sickness and much, much more, log

onto KCParent.com Dixie Stampede

kcparent.com june 2014

use travel to teach kids about money

ravel opens many opportunities to teach kids about life, and it’s also an ideal channel to start teaching your kids about how money works. With fun already guaranteed to be had, you don’t have to worry about sitting them down at the kitchen table for a dry lesson. “What’s more, reinforcing the relationship between travel and money can help your kids feel like they’re part of the vacation planning,” says Cathy Kruzic, a travel media relations representative for the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism. “They feel like they’re part of the entire experience,” she says. Here are some ideas to get your kids thinking about money while you’re on the road:

kcparent.com june 2014

Ask for help calculating the restaurant tip. Figuring out 20 percent of your total bill can be a fun activity for kids who are swallowing that last bite. Show your kids the total bill amount. Move the decimal point one digit to the left to calculate ten percent. Multiply that number by two, and you’ve got an approximate tip amount for a good meal. Adjust accordingly, explaining to your kids why you tip and how you determine the tip amount. Turn a fill-up at the tank into a quick math problem. If one gallon of gas costs $3, and our vehicle has a 17-gallon tank, how much should we expect to spend on gas today? Put addition and subtraction to work as you spend cash. On a family vacation, I once overheard my dad comment that the $400 we had set out with was disappearing quickly. I realized then that money doesn’t grow on trees. Use simple addition and subtraction equations to reinforce the benefits and consequences of travel purchases. Give each of your kids an allowance and ask them to track their spending, either throughout the trip or just for a day. Ask them whether they spent more or less than they thought they would. Did the things they spent money on cost more or less than they expected? Allow the conversation to take its course. Use sight-seeing to teach younger kids about coin values. Each time the child sees a black cow or a letter “B” on a road sign (you choose the objects for your kids to find), reward that finding with a quarter. Explain that once your child earns four quarters, he can trade them in for one dollar bill. “It has to be visual,” says Kruzic. “It has to be simple.” Using travel to teach your kids about money not only encourages them to think realistically, it also helps them to understand money in a real world context. By putting real life money practices to the test, your kids will not only grow as savvy spenders and savers, they also will get a taste of what it means to be responsible travelers. Kate Meadows raises her financially savvy kids in Louisburg.

MEDIAMIX

fish tales & friendship Summer books explore friendship, family and home By McGeath Freeman

Peanut Butter and Jellyfish By Jarrett J. Krosoczka Best for: Ages 4-8

Did you hear the one about the bully who was really just protecting his own feelings? That’s what you get with this tale of underwater pals. Peanut Butter (a seahorse) and Jellyfish (a jellyfish) are best friends. They swim around, over and through–exploring their big ocean surroundings. But every time they swim past Crabby, he hurls insults at the pair. Then one day there’s no sign of Crabby. The friends soon find him trapped inside a lobster pot being hauled to the surface.

Do they make the right choice? Do they help him escape? It wouldn’t be a good story for your children if they didn’t. After Peanut Butter and Jellyfish do the right thing and help Crabby escape, he does the right thing and apologizes. Crabby also explains why he’s been so rude. Pretty soon they are all best friends. They spend their days exploring the ocean floor.

What’s good: An easy story about friendship, saying sorry and making the right choices. What’s bad: : I found the juvenile illustrations to be distracting, but young children seem to like them.

Duck & Goose Go to the Beach By Tad Hills Best for: Ages 3-7

Duck and Goose are back in a new adventure. Fans of Toot and Puddle might be familiar with the themes in this book: friendship, home, adventure and more. Duck is set on having an adventure, and Goose is happy to stay home in their meadow. Eventually they hike to the beach where they play on the waves, mingle with the locals, make sand castles and relax in the sand. The beach is scary, fun and exciting, but they decide

that there’s no place like home. The simplistic illustration style is superbly rendered, and Hill brings every emotion to life with the smallest eye crinkle or bending beak. The illustrations are warm, inviting and will draw young readers in. Anyone leaving for their first time at camp will be able to relate to these characters and the mix of emotions they feel on their first adventure to the beach.

What’s good: Expressive illustrations that make the reader feel like they are spending time with old friends. What’s bad: Very little. This is a winner for young readers.

The Ghosts of Tupelo Landing By Sheila Turnage Best for: Ages 8-12

Whether you are old friends of Mo LoBeau or just meeting her for the first time, you’re going to like her. This plucky sixth grader lives in a small North Carolina town with her adopted family of quirky characters and can always be found with her best friend and business partner Dale Earnhardt Johnson III. Their detective agency (Desperado Detective

Agency) just recently solved a murder, and it doesn’t take them long to stumble into a new case. This one involves the old dilapidated Tupelo Inn, a history project, a ghost and a mystery more than 60 years old. Turnage may have outdone herself with this tale driven by humor, action and quirky characters, The Ghosts of Tupelo Landing.

What’s good: Colorful language, believable characters and an absorbing plot. What else is good: Turnage may be looking at another Newberry Honor with this one. kcparent.com june 2014

summer

fun guide

table of contents rock around the block playdates for mom ice cube paintings host a book club summer fun under $5 beaches & boating outdoor concerts ice cream treats

kcparent.com june 2014

41 42 44 45 46 49 50 51

rock around the block With warmer temperatures comes fun in the sun. What better way to soak up some extra Vitamin D than to plan a gettogether with your fellow neighbors? If the idea of organizing a large event feels daunting, don’t worry! Here are seven easy steps to organizing a great block party. Check out the city’s requirements. Do you need a permit or special

license to hold a large outdoor event? What are the rules on grilling location or street barriers to block off the gathering area? Contact your local office to find out what’s okay and what’s not before setting up the event.

Location. The best place to set up the

event is at a house halfway between each end of the block. According to SheKnows. com, “If the party location is perceived to be too far from home, people may not attend or might feel they’re not comfortable at the opposite end of the street.” If a cul-de-sac is present close to the halfway point, that’s even better. It will minimize any concerns about kids and through traffic on a regular street.

Enlist help. Kansas City mom Desiree

Leeper has experience organizing a block party. Her start-up advice: “Get at least two committed neighbors to help and set a date.” Delegate duties so that the burden doesn’t rest solely on you. One neighbor can make the fliers. Others can supply folding chairs and tables.

Ensure safety and protect against liability. Some neighbors

may be hesitant to sign up to help or host due to the concern of accident liability on their property. To ease the worry, have participating neighbors sign a waiver. It’s also a good idea to go over any areas in the front or backyards that could be a potential safety hazard, such as loose stepping stones, hoses on the ground, etc.

Get at least two committed neighbors to help and set a date. Delegate duties so that the burden doesn’t rest solely on you. Go door to door. Now that you’ve

got the basics figured out, it’s time to introduce yourself (if you haven’t already) and inform neighbors of the event. In the article “How to Throw a Block Party” on TasteOfHome.com, the author recommends taking a clipboard with a sign-up sheet to record family name, address, phone number, how many people will attend, names

and ages of children and whether they’d be interested in helping provide chairs, tables, etc. Don’t forget to bring the fliers and waivers so that you can get it all done at once.

Food. Mom of three Tracie Richmond Fobes says, “When we had ours, we didn’t want everyone bringing the same thing. So, we had the odd house numbers bring a dessert and the evens bring a side/salad. It worked out perfectly, as we had a really good mix of items.” Fun. Tonganoxie mom Brooke Sonntag suggests inviting local firemen to the event with the fire truck to demonstrate sirens and lights for the kids. Water balloon tosses and egg races are examples of simple games that can be a lot of fun for kids, as well as adults. It’s best to brainstorm with your volunteers based on the age ranges of the children attending the event. With this checklist, you’ll be on your way to block party success in no time. Now get out there and mingle! Jennifer Bosse lives in Kansas City with her husband and two kids. She is currently planning a block party of her own.

summer fun guide kcparent.com june 2014

11 playdates just for moms Mama, you work hard! Kick

off the summer by taking time to revitalize and reconnect with

a moms night out! Spending time with a few friends to vent, laugh and reenergize in a kid-free

zone is healthy and necessary.

If you are like most moms, you stay busy juggling everyone else’s schedules. “But when it comes to us, we forget that we need the same recharging,” says Maria Bailey, host of Mom Talk Radio, author and founder of National Mom’s Nite Out. Whether you have a gaggle of friends or just a few you’d like to know better, here are 11 ideas to fire up some much-deserved fun.

1 Tap your inner Matisse. Art studios have popped up across the metro, featuring BYOB paint events like “Drinks with the Masters” at Silver Tree Visual Arts in Olathe, Thirsty Palette in Leawood, and Grapes & Paints in Overland Park. The events offer artist-led one-time classes created specifically for ladies nights out. Feel a pleasant drop in your blood pressure while painting and sipping wine in the company of friends. No cleanup required!

Thirsty Palette

2 Channel Annie Oakley. Members of Johnson County Mothers & More tested their marksmanship skills at the OMB Guns & Indoor Range in Olathe during their monthly night out. After some initial training, each mom practiced firing her weapon at a target. “By the end of the night, we were feeling like a mix of Charlie’s Angels and Full Metal Jacket,” Jen Mann, Overland Park, says. “It was a high, and we were a bit amped up by our success.” 3 Pamper and primp. Capture that summer glow with fresh manicures and pedicures for you and your friends. Depending on the size of your group, some spas will book an evening just for your party. Or, call a mom friend who is in the beauty biz. Renee Katzer, an independent consultant for Jamberry Nails, Paola, says her Margaritas and Manicures and Nails and Cocktails parties are especially popular among her clients. 4 Swirl, sniff and sip. Head to an area winery for a relaxing wine tasting. Check out KCWineries.com for ideas of where to go. If you’d like to host your own, choose a group of wines from a specific region, ranging from dry to sweet, and hide the names behind a large bow or decorative material. Place a placard with a number in front of each bottle. Give each guest a glass with her own wine charm. Provide scoring sheets for each wine they taste. Serve light appetizers, including cheese and crackers, chocolates and palate-cleansing fruits.

Jamberry Nails

kcparent.com june 2014

5 Coordinate a book swap. Invite your bookworm friends to bring gently used books and cookbooks they no longer want. Guests can choose as many books to take as they bring to give away. 6 Explore local cuisine. Kansas City is a foodie’s paradise. Gather your friends and take turns choosing one restaurant per month. One favorite for lunch or dinner is Webster House, just steps from the Kauffman Center. To build continuity, make the event a standing occasion on the same night each month.

Webster House

7 Host a “My Favorite Things” party. What’s one kitchen gadget, makeup or cleaning product that you can’t live without? Hide your item in a gift bag and exchange with friends. Once everyone has opened her bag, each participant explains why she loves the product she brought to give away. “We all took notes so we could run out and try the fun stuff,” says Amber Shepard, Olathe. Provide each guest with a complimentary notepad and pen to keep track of ideas or clever tips.

8 Get pinning! Jen Conrad, Olathe, hosted a Pinterest Party in which everyone brought a snack that they found on the site. Then, the group made a scented sugar scrub together. “Everything we ate, drank and did was a Pinterest idea,” Conrad says.

Kansas City is a foodie’s paradise. Gather your friends and take turns choosing one restaurant per month.

9 Catch the latest flick. Gather your friends for an evening of laughs or cathartic drama at the movies. After the show, review the film together over dinner or dessert. 1 0 Form a culture club. Kansas City is a cultural mecca. Visit the symphony, ballet or opera at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts. Explore the jazz scene that made Kansas City famous at the American Jazz Museum’s Blue Room. Attend different events every four to six weeks from live theater at the historic Folly Theater or the latest art exhibit at the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art. Head to KCGoingPlaces.com for a complete listing of local performing arts venues and upcoming events. 1 1 Be spontaneous! Gather your lawn chairs, light lanterns and invite a few friends over for a last minute glass of wine, margaritas or iced tea paired with chips and queso. By simply creating time for you and your friends to chat, you will deepen your friendships and nurture your spirit, too. Freelance journalist Christa Melnyk Hines looks forward to a moms night out at least once every six weeks. She is the author of Confidently Connected: A Mom’s Guide to a Satisfying Social Life.

summer fun guide kcparent.com june 2014

CRAFTCORNER

This is the perfect art project to make outside on a hot day.

ice cube paintings T

his is the perfect art project to make outside on a hot day. The more the ice cubes melt, the easier it is to create a summer masterpiece. Afterwards, get out the garden hose to clean up any messes!

Materials Needed: Tempera paint Ice cube trays Straws or Popsicle sticks Paper Squirt about a teaspoon of tempera paint into each ice cube compartment. Fill with water and carefully mix. Set a straw (cut down to a few inches) or Popsicle sticks into each cube. Put your paints in the freezer for a few hours or until frozen solid. Bring the paints, along with some paper, outside on a hot day and create a work of art! Megan Kapple is a blogger from Kansas City, MO, where she lives with her husband and three young daughters. She loves anything DIY and crafty and blogs about her adventures at Homemadeginger.com.

kcparent.com june 2014

step three: decide where and when

Think about how often you’d like to meet. We found that once a week for an hour and a half was the right amount of time. The first half hour was spent discussing what was read and the last hour was time for a craft, game or other activity. We decided to host at our home, but there are several options available. You could take turns meeting at a different person’s house each week or you could look into using a room at your local library. If the weather is nice, gather outdoors at a park or if the weather doesn’t cooperate, head to Panera or a coffee shop. The possibilities are endless!

step four: read and plan

host a summer

book club 5 easy steps!

ummer’s here and the living is easy. No more teachers, no more books…While a break from the rigors and routine of the school year is beneficial, we’ve all heard about the “summer slide” or “summer brain drain” that many students experience.

Each summer, I plan activities, field trips and lessons (it’s the teacher in me) to help both of my girls ward off the dreaded summer slide. My goal is to create fun experiences in which the girls don’t even realize they are learning. To keep my older, Tori, engaged in reading, we planned and hosted a five-week mother-daughter book club. Follow the five steps below, and you’ll find yourself spending quality time with your child and socializing with good friends while sneaking in some good, old-fashioned learning.

step one: survey friends and family

The first step is to determine whether there is an interest among friends to participate in the book club. My daughter and I came up with a list of 10 friends, and I sent an email to all moms gauging their interest/ availability. After hearing back from everyone invited, we had six moms and six daughters ready, willing and able to be a part of the book club.

step two: choose a book

After gathering your group of friends, it’s time to choose a book. I got three book choices for Tori to look over. One of the books I chose, Mr. Popper’s Penguins, had recently made into a movie, so we went with that. We thought it would be fun for our book club to see the movie together after reading the book.

Once you’ve chosen a title, decided on how many times you’ll meet and for how often, it’s time for the fun to begin! Read through the book, taking notes along the way for any fun ideas that inspire you while reading the book. Write down any and all ideas—you’ll have time later to narrow down that list. After reading the book, search the internet for lesson plans and fun activities for the title selected. You’ll be amazed by the wealth of information at your finger tips. In fact, much of the planning is already done for you.

step five: let the fun begin

Now that all of your plans are made, it’s time for the book club to begin! Each week Tori and I put out a snack and made lemonade for the group. We also made sure that Dad was available to watch Ally, as siblings weren’t allowed at book club (Tori’s rule, and I understood and respected her rule). To prepare for our discussions, Tori wrote 10 comprehension questions on our assigned reading for the week. It was a great way for me to check her comprehension and a fun way for her to take on a leadership role in our book club. Having a list of questions she prepared in advance made it easier for her to feel comfortable in leading our discussion. After discussion time, we moved onto our craft or activity. This typically took up the entire time we had allotted. So what are you waiting for? Grab your kiddo, find a book and put together a summer book club! KC Parent editor Margaret Sarver can be found reading at her home in Lenexa.

summer fun guide kcparent.com june 2014

fun ideas under $5

FOR A SUMMER OF KC FUN

Stretching the family budget while making the most of summer break is every parent’s dream. Celebrate the season with these free and cheap local ideas! 1. Take a tour of the Roasterie and learn about coffee. 2. Play at Penguin Park. 3. Tour the Truman home in

Independence. 4. Sign up for free bowling with KidsBowlFree.com. 5. Head to the KC Power & Light District for the free Sprint Family Fun Days event the second Saturday of each month. 6. Splash and play at a local sprayground (search Spraygrounds on KCParent.com). 7. Stroll through Kauffman Memorial Gardens. 8. Participate in the local library’s summer reading program. 9. Go fishing (search Fishing on KCParent.com). 10. Attend The Winter’s Tale at Shakespeare in the Park (June 17-July 6, KCShakes.org). 11. Attend a free family fun night at Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop (Thursdays, 6:00-8:00).

kcparent.com june 2014

12. Learn about the Santa Fe Trail at Cave Springs Nature Center. 13. Play at “Super Kids Save the World,” Crown Center’s free summer kids exhibit.

29. Ride the KC Northern Railroad, just 50 cents on Saturdays and Sundays. 30. Play at Little Monkey Bizness during their power hour from 1:00 to 3:00 on Mondays and Wednesdays, when guests enjoy $5 admission.

14. Picnic near a waterfall (search Waterfalls on KCParent.com).

31. Visit the free National Archives of Kansas City and explore their “What’s Cooking Uncle Sam?” exhibit

15. Share a Skyscraper at Winstead’s.

about ways food has occupied the hearts and minds of Americans and their government.

16. Play “I Spy” at Lakeside Nature Center. 32. Build a free project at Lowe’s or Home Depot. Both 17. Create a masterpiece at Kaleidoscope. 18. Explore one of Kansas City’s best parks (search Best Parks on KCParent.com). 19. Imagine and play at KidScape at the Johnson County Museum.

offer free workshops on select Saturdays. 33. Pretend to be a pirate at a local pirate ship park (search Best Parks on KCParent.com). 34. Join a summer movie club at Dickinson or AMC theaters.

20. Feed animals at Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead.

35. Photograph friends in front of a fountain.

21. Tour KC Strings and learn how violins are made.

36. Discover a masterpiece at the free Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art.

22. Marvel at modern art at the Nerman Museum,

37. Get free money at the Money Museum.

where admission is free. 38. Attend a festival (search Festivals on the calendar at KCParent.com). 23. Really hot outside? Treat the kids to a snow cone at

39. Explore the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art.

Little Freshie (LittleFreshie.com) or a Tropical Sno Station (KansasCitySnowCones.com) or Kona Ice Truck (Kona-Ice.com). 24. Stop and smell the roses at Loose Park. 25. Watch a free movie in the park (search Free Events on the calendar at KCParent.com). 26. Spend a first Friday in the Crossroads. 27. Take a tour of the Kansas City, MO, City Hall and go to the roof for amazing views of downtown. 28. Hike at Ernie Miller Nature Center.

summer fun guide kcparent.com june 2014

And from our Facebook fans...

40 40. Taste test every flavor of Glace Ice Cream until you find your favorite. 41. Explore the Central Branch of the Kansas City Library, because any library with a parking garage painted with classic books has to be cool. 42. Find fairies at Firefly Forest (search Gnome Homes on KCParent.com).

We asked KC Parent’s Facebook fans, “What free or low-cost activities are you doing with your kids this summer?”

We like to go pick blueberries— yum! La Wall Library story time...in the air-conditioning! Miranda Miles

Playgrounds, picnics, Deanna Rose and the baby pool in the yard. Tiffany Lewis

Cheap and free summer movies. Steve Kelly

43. Tour the Harley-Davidson Factory, a favorite activity for ages 12 and up. 44. Feed the fish at Longview Lake. 45. Bike Trolley Trail. 46. Attend a free concert. 47. Attend the free Future Stages Festival at the Kauffman Center on June 22, Noon-5:00. Families enjoy performance and interactive arts activities. KauffmanCenter.org/2014/04/06/FutureStagesFestival 48. Take a free class at Burr Oak Woods Nature Center. 49. Make a craft for free at Lakeshore Learning, offered every Saturday, 11:00-3:00. 50. Imagine you’re in the Wild West at Antioch Park. Search Free Events on the KCParent.com calendar, where there are free (and cheap) things to enjoy every day.

My favorite is the Boulevard Drive-In! We usually end up going with tons of families—the kids have a great time, and the parents do, too! Michelle Klein Splash grounds! (For a list of spraygrounds all over KC, head to KCParent.com) Carri Gann Moore Free summer concert series—we are always excited when they publish the schedule. Nancy Downey West

Kristina Light’s family enjoys summer nights at Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead and summer days at local spraygrounds.

kcparent.com june 2014

Pack a lunch, head to the park and have a picnic. Water balloon fights in the backyard. Tiffany Belmont

Beaches & Boats You don’t need to live on the coast to head to the beach. Kansas City has several local beaches where you can play and soak up the sun.

Blue Springs Lake

Where: in Fleming Park, 2 miles east of I-470 and Hwy. 291 on Woods Chapel Rd. How much: Swimming is $3 for 15 and under, $5 for ages 16 and up. What to do: Blue Springs is a 720-acre lake located in Blue Springs and Lee’s Summit. Swimming available through Labor Day weekend. The marina offers rentals of pontoon, bass and fishing boats. Website: JacksonGov.org

Longview Lake

Where: South of Kansas City, at I-470 and Raytown Rd. (exit 4) How much: Swimming is $3 for 15 and under, $5 for ages 16 and up What to do: Longview Lake covers 930 acres in Kansas City, Grandview and Lee’s Summit. In addition to a swimming beach and marina with boat rentals, the park offers a golf course, softball fields and 6 miles of paved bicycle trail. Website: JacksonGov.org

Shawnee Mission Park

Where: 7900 Renner Rd. How much: $3 for ages 12 and under and over 50, $5 for ages 13 and up plus 50 additional cents for non-residents What to do: The 150-acre lake is open through mid-August. Boat rentals include pedal boats, canoes, two-person sailboats

and fishing boats. Website: JCPRD.com

Kill Creek

Where: 11670 Homestead Ln. How much: $3 for ages 12 and under and over 50, $5 for ages 13 and up plus 50 additional cents for non-residents What to do: Kill Creek Lake is 28 acres and offers a swimming beach and marina. Both are open through mid-August. The park also offers 17 miles of hiking, mountain bike and equestrian trails. Website: JCPRD.com

Smithville Lake

Where: 1 mile north of Smithville on Hwy 169 How much: $1 per swimmer What to do: There is plenty of fun to be had on the more than 7,000 acres of Smithville. Open through Labor Day, the lake boasts activities including swimming, boating, fishing, horseback riding and more. Website: SmithvilleMo.org

Watkins Woolen Mill State Park

Where: 26600 Park Rd. N., Lawson, MO How much: Free for swimming What to do: Open through Labor Day, Watkins features activities including a sand swimming beach with a change house nearby, fishing and camp sites. Website: MoStateParks.com

April though October ENJOY A GUIDED TOUR through the Budweiser Clydesdales’ state-ofthe-art breeding facility located in the rolling hills of Boonville, Missouri. This incredible facility is home to more than 100 Budweiser Clydesdales, ranging from foals to stallions. Be sure to bring a camera to capture the grace and beauty of the Budweiser Clydesdales as they move freely in their natural environment and provide once-in-a-lifetime photo opportunities. Budweiser samples will be offered along with the opportunity to visit our gift shop.

Ad Name:Warm Springs Ranch Closing Date: 4.4.14 Item #: PSL201010017 QC: sm Pub: KC Parent Order #: 261490

kcparent.com 2014

june Trim:7.4x4.85 Bleed: none Live: 7.15x4.6

For a list of movies under the stars this summer, head to KCParent.com.

free sounds under the stars By Margaret Sarver

ne of my favorite things to do in the summer is listen to a band in an outdoor setting. How lucky are we in Kansas City to have so many options available! And if you are a longtime reader of KC Parent, you know that anytime our local U2 tribute band Rattle & Hum is playing, I am sure to be in attendance! Be sure to check the website for the events below, as each venue has its own set of rules for what is allowed to be brought in and what should be left at home.

Music in the Park

Sundays thru August, 6:00 Rotary Park (Blue Springs) A 14-concert season brings a variety of blues, rock, classics and country area favorites that will appeal to the whole family. Concessions available or bring your own picnic.

Music in the Park

Fridays thru August, 6:30 Howard Station Park (Lee’s Summit) Enjoy a range of musical genres in Howard Station Park. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets for seating.

Olathe Summer Concert Series

Fridays, June 6 & 13, July 18 & 25 and Aug. 1 The Olathe Summer Concert Series is celebrating 15 years of free summer concerts! It showcases a variety of family-friendly music genres.

kcparent.com june 2014

Overland Park Farmers Market

Alternating Wednesdays & Saturdays, 10:30 Downtown Overland Park It’s summer, the fountains are on and everyone is ready to dance. Enjoy live music while shopping for fresh produce.

Plaza Live

Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays thru September Country Club Plaza Check out music from the best local and regional acts at the Courtyard Concert Series. Plaza Live! features concerts in various Plaza courtyards.

Sounds on the Square

Fridays thru September, 7:00 Linden Square (Gladstone) These free outdoor concerts offer lawn seating. Bring blankets and chairs and be ready to enjoy music under the stars.

Summer Sounds in the Park

Wednesdays, June 4-July 30, 5:00 Park Place Take in Kansas City’s finest local and regional musicians in Barkley Square while enjoying a refreshing beverage from the patio or rooftop at surrounding restaurants.

Summer Concert Series

Saturdays thru Aug. 30, 6:30 Zona Rosa A variety of musicians and musical styles entertain shoppers and diners at Town

Square with free concerts every Saturday evening.

Sunset Music Fest

Thursdays in June, 6:00 Town Center Enjoy great music and a cold drink on a warm summer night. Concerts take place in the east drive next to Bravo’s patio. Not free, but cheap:

Friday Night Live Music

Fridays thru September Wine Barn Winery Gates open at 5:45; live music begins at 6:30. Dinner sold separately through vendors. Cover charge just $5.

Summertime Music Series

Fridays thru Aug. 1, 6:30 Holy-Field Winery Wonderful entertainment and great food in a relaxing venue. A fantastic lineup of talented local Jazz musicians. $5/adults, free/children under 12.

Friday Night Concerts

Fridays thru October, 7:00 Stone Pillar Vineyard Music under the stars! Lawn tickets available for $5 and pavilion seats for $10. Children welcome. Admission for ages 8 and up; food available for purchase.

summertime sweets

cool down with delicious ice cream treats

(Family Features) These treats make it easy for everyone to customize to their own sweet preference, whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pairing creamy Blue Bunny ice cream with the gooey goodness of freshly-baked chocolate cake, the buttery finish of a flaky pie crust or in a classic, richly adorned parfait.

Ice Cream Cupcakes

Yield: 18 to 20 cupcakes Cupcake liners 1 1/8 c. all-purpose flour 1/2 c. unsweetened cocoa powder 1 t. baking soda 1 t. salt 1/2 c. butter, softened 1 c. white sugar 1 egg 1 t. vanilla extract 1 c. brewed coffee 1 Caramel Fudge Brownie Sundae, vanilla or your favorite ice cream flavor Decorations (such as sprinkles, cupcake skewers, cherries) To make cupcakes, preheat oven to 350Â°F. Place cupcake liners in cupcake pan. Sift together flour, cocoa, baking soda and salt. Set aside. In medium bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add egg and vanilla and beat well. Add flour mixture, alternating with coffee. Beat until just incorporated. Fill cupcake liners about 1/3 full to allow for ice cream. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes or until toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cupcakes cool. Using round ice cream scoop, scoop out rounds of ice cream and set on baking sheet in freezer. Once ice cream scoops are frozen, carefully place one into each cupcake and top with fun decorations.

Peanut Butter Sundae Parfaits

Yield: 10 to 12 sundae parfaits 6 waffle or sugar cones Chocolate cake or brownies Chocolate chip cookies Blue Bunny Peanut Butter Panic Ice Cream Maraschino cherries, sprinkles or cupcake pom pom topper for garnish Break up waffle cones, chocolate cake or brownies and chocolate chip cookies into bite-size pieces and place in individual containers or cupcake cups. Or use favorite cake or cookie flavors to customize. Layer ice cream, waffle cone pieces, cake pieces and cookie pieces into mini parfait glasses, or any small glass or bowl. Garnish with Maraschino cherry, sprinkles or cupcake pompom topper. Tip: Other fun mix-in ideas include pretzels, chocolate candies, marshmallows, graham crackers, fudge sauce or caramel sauce.

summer fun guide kcparent.com june 2014

june

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

CALENDAR

WARM SPRINGS RANCH

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

kcparent.com june 2014

visit

watch

play

enjoy

Take the family to Warm Springs Ranch to see the Budweiser Clydesdales in their natural environment. A day trip to the state-of-the-art Budweiser Clydesdale breeding farm is a perfect early summer day trip.

See a movie under the stars! Mosaic Life Care offers three Film Fests on June 6, 23 and 27 at 7:00. Enjoy a family-friendly movie, healthy snacks and fun activities for kids of all ages. Free. Pre-reg at

WarmSpringsRanch.com

MyMosaicLifeCare.org.

Follow the yellow brick road to Starlight for The Wizard of Oz, which runs June 10-15. Click your heels together and join Scarecrow, Tin Man, Lion, Dorothy and Toto as they journey through the magical land of Oz. KCStarlight.com

Step back in time for an old-fashioned Garden Party on June 21 at 10:00 at Shawnee Town 1929. This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s party honors the women of the 1920s. Enjoy crafts, games, hairstyling and more! 913.248.2360

Head to the Kauffman Center on June 22 for the Future Stages Festival to celebrate the future of art in Kansas City. From noon until 5:00 experience a diverse range of performance and interactive activities. Free. 816.994.7229

1 sunday

A Not So Modern Family 9:30 & 11:00, Lenexa Baptist Church. Explore Biblical foundations on topics such as marriage, raising children and caring for aging parents. Free. 913.599.6447 Day Out with Thomas Today & June 6-8, Midland Railway. A ride with Thomas the Tank Engine plus other fun activities. Save $2/ticket with code KCParent14. 866.468.7630 KosherFest 2014 11:00, Congregation Ohev Sholom (75th & Nall). Children’s activities, including games, a bounce house and potting a plant to take home. 913.558.7592 Arrive & Drive Noon, Extreme Grand Prix Family Fun Center. Indoor kart racing, inflatables and an arcade provide a fun family outing. 816.286.4156 art + family = FUN 1:00, Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Join us every Saturday and Sunday for free activities for all ages! 816.751.1278 Okee Dokee Brothers 1:30, Wonderscope. Enjoy a special performance by the Grammy-winning Okee Dokee Brothers. 913.287.8888

park setting. Free. 816.228.0137

2 monday 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 All-You-Can-Play Day 10:00, Cool Crest. On Mondays and Thursdays get unlimited mini golf, 2 go kart rides and 10 arcade tokens for only $10.99. CoolCrest.com Discovery of King Tut 10:00, Union Station. Let your footsteps retrace the paths of the breathtaking ancient Egyptian archeological site. $12.50$19.95. UnionStation.org Winston Churchill: The Artist 10:00, Hallmark Visitors Center. Enjoy a rare opportunity to view the art of Churchill. Learn about his connection with Hallmark. 816.274.3613

3 tuesday

Gardens Gone Wild 9:00, Powell Gardens. This summer see a 12-foot elephant, a pair of wrestling bears and a 5-foot-tall hen at the gardens. 816.697.2600

Theatre (Legends). Cool off from the summer heat with a free movie. Different movies each week. Doors open at 9:00. PhoenixTheatres.com Visit Warm Springs Ranch Thru Oct 31, Warm Springs Ranch (Boonville). Take a day trip to the state-of-the-art Budweiser Clydesdale breeding farm. Pre-reg at WarmSpringsRanch.com. Coffee Playground 10:00, OP First Assembly of God. Free play in the gym for kids 5 and under. Inflatables, scooters, balls and other toys! OverlandParkMops.blogspot.com Fire and Ice 6:00, Anita B Gorman Center. Enjoy an early summer campfire complete with s’mores and ice cold drinks. MDC.mo.gov

4 wednesday

Farmers Market 7:00, Downtown Lee’s Summit. Purchase a variety of fresh produce, plants, meat, baked goods, handmade crafts and more. 816.246.6598 Animal Tales 10:30, Ernie Miller Nature Center. Visit the nature center for stories, songs and surprises. Meet a special animal friend every time. $2. 913.764.7759

Cinderella 6:00, Yardley Hall (JCCC). Miller Marley youth ballet performs this beloved story through dance. 913.469.4445

Toddler Time 9:30, Sky Zone. If you can walk, then you can jump! Toddler Time is for the little ones to have their own jump time. $7. 913.213.5900

Hard Hat Tour 2:00, Kansas City Museum. Take a hard hat tour of Corinthian Hall and see how it looks mid-renovation. KansasCityMuseum.org

Music in the Park 6:00, Rotary Park (Blue Springs). Bring a blanket and enjoy music in a

Free Summer Movies Every Tue-Thu, Phoenix

What’s for Dinner? 3:00, Burr Oak Woods Nature

kcparent.com june 2014

Day Out with Thomas

Thru June 8, Midland Railway. A ride with Thomas the Tank Engine plus other fun activities. Save $2/ticket with code KCParent14. 866.468.7630 Center. Watch as the captive amphibians, fish and turtles enjoy their feast. 816.228.3766

Enjoy free admission and different activities based on a theme. Tonight’s theme: Kansas Cowboys. 913.971.8563

Kids and Clay 4:30, Ceramic Café. Kids learn basic skills such as hand building, slab work, pinch pots, etc., and create a fun masterpiece. $16. 913.383.0222

6 friday

5 thursday

Outdoor Play Backyard Specialists (Olathe). Play on the equipment for a couple of hours. The hardest part will be leaving the fun! $2. 913.307.6023 Visit LEGOLAND 10:00, LEGOLAND Discovery Center. Spend the day creating with Legos. Be sure to visit the newly remodeled Lego Friends area. 816.471.4386 Getting Ready 2:00, National Frontier Trails Museum. In this guided tour, examine the decision to go west and what it would take to get ready. 816.325.7575 Flower Anklet Craft 4:00, American Girl Doll Store. Girls can create a tropical anklet for themselves and their dolls. Free. AmericanGirl.com Family Fun Night 6:00, Mahaffie Stagecoach.

Day Out with Thomas Thru Sunday, Midland Railway. A ride with Thomas the Tank Engine plus other fun activities. Save $2/ticket with code KCParent14. 866.468.7630 Summer Arts Program Every Friday June & July, Johnson County Museum. Hands-on messy fun! Pre-reg at 913.715.2550 Paint Me a Story 10:30, Paint, Glaze and Fire. Paint a pottery piece that goes along with a favorite story. Snack included. $13-$15. Pre-reg. 913.661.2529 Downtown Days Thru Sunday, Downtown Lee’s Summit. A family-friendly festival featuring live entertainment, arts and crafts, a carnival, barbecue contest and more! 816.246.6598 Family Night 4:00, Little Monkey Bizness. Bring the entire family for a night of fun! Admission

is only $6, and pizza is available for purchase. 913.631.7000 Summertime Bluesfest Today & tomorrow, Oak Grove Park (Gladstone). Enjoy lots of great music, food and drink at this year’s festival. 816.436.2200 Jazoo 7:00, Kansas City Zoo. Fundraiser for the zoo. Enjoy delicious dishes from many Kansas City area restaurants, limitless libations and entertainment. KansasCityZoo.org

summer time is creative time at

gifts for dad summer camps family fun ice cream social june 26 95TH & MISSION ROAD

913.383.0222

CERAMICCAFEKC.COM

kcparent.com june 2014

Film Fest 7:00, Mosaic Living (Shoal Creek). A family-friendly movie, healthy and delicious snack options and fun activities for kids of all ages. Free! Pre-reg at MyMosaicLifeCare.org/event.

Breakfast at the Bingham 7:00, BinghamWaggoner Estate. Enjoy the simple pleasures of a home-style breakfast: eggs, sausage, country potatoes and all the trimmings. $9. 816.461.3491

Funky Mama 7:00, Southminster Presbyterian Church (Prairie Village). A free performance by Funky Mama! Snacks available for purchase. FunkyMamaMusic.com

Dairy Days 7:30, Basehor City Park. Come one, come all, to a day of fun for the whole family, including live entertainment and more! 913.972.1428

Eyes of the Night 7:00, Ernie Miller. Meet three live owls and discover more about these creatures of the night. Special Friday night series. $3. 913.764.7759

Garden Tour 9:00, John Wornall House. The gates will open to six of the most stunning and prestigious garden spaces in Kansas City. $25. 816.444.1858

First Fridays 7:00, Crossroads Art District. Galleries and shops remain open the first Friday of each month. KCCrossroads.org

Children’s Day 9:00, Missouri Town 1855. Get a glimpse into simpler times through the games of yesteryear—tug-of-war, marbles and gunny sack races! 816.503.4860

Sky Mania 9:00, Sky Zone. A 90-minute, allaccess pass to everything at Sky Zone. Includes two slices of pizza and a drink. Ages 10-15. $18. 913.213.5900

7 saturday Overland Park Farmers Market 6:30, Downtown OP. Shop for a wide variety of products from farmfresh produce and local foods to unique specialty items. 913.895.6390 Free Fishing, Boating & Archery Thru Sunday, Shawnee Mission, Heritage and Kill Creek parks. Annual permit-free weekend. 913.888.4713

International Motor Sports Association Road Racing Kansas Speedway. Sports car racing returns with the Continental Tire Challenge Series. Gardening with Your Family 10:00, Swope Park. Hands-on workshop featuring easy gardening methods that involve every member of the family. KCCG.org Fill a Bag for $5, 10:00, Children’s Orchard (KCMO, Olathe, Indep, Lee’s Summit & Blue Springs). Grab a bag, then stuff, pack or cram it as full as you can with selected resale clothing. ChildOrch.com

World Ocean Day 10:00, Kansas City Zoo. Learn all about the world’s oceans and how they impact our everyday lives. KansasCityZoo.org Bugs! 10:00, Lakeside Nature Sanctuary. An interactive and informative day on all things bugs. Crafts, bug walk, tattoos and more. 816.513.8960 Flag Day 10:30, Ft Osage. Learn about proper flag etiquette and explore a display of flags representing different periods of American history. $3-$7. 816.503.4860 Learn-to-Count Ladybug 11:00, Lakeshore Learning. Kids design a one-of-a-kind ladybug with fanciful spots they’ll love to count. Free. 913.432.3998 Saturday Night Feeder Saturdays thru Oct, 4:00, Cedar Cove Feline Sanctuary. Watch the cats being fed. $5. 816.739.0363 Pianist Recital 7:00, Folly Theater. A Discovery Concert free to the public featuring ChineseAmerican pianist George Li. Print tickets at home. 816.415.5025 Overnight Fishing 11:00, Heritage Park (Olathe). Bring poles and bait to enjoy the first overnight fishing event at Heritage Park.

8 sunday

A Not So Modern Family 9:30 & 11:00, Lenexa Baptist Church. Explore Biblical foundations on topics such as marriage, raising children and car-

Looking for an option to

homeschool?

Looking for an option to

homeschool? Grades K–8 tuition-free

Educate your child from home, using the classic Calvert curriculum with easy-to-use lessons and personal support.

Join in the fun! Check out our EVENTS page for our FREE Fun Fridays Calvert.LeavenworthVS.org

Call: (913) 684-1540 kcparent.com june 2014

Music in the Park 6:00, Rotary Park (Blue Springs). Bring a blanket and enjoy music in a park setting. Free. 816.228.0137

9 monday 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 Super Kid Saves the World 10:00, Crown Center. Hands-on exhibit for kids to explore. The big message is reduce, reuse, repair and recycle. Free. CrownCenter.com

10 tuesday Free Play Cedar Ridge Christian Church. Daily free play for young children while parents enjoy a coffee drink. 913.393.3000 Creative Story Time 11:00, Ceramic Café. Hear a story, create a pottery piece and enjoy a simple snack. 913.383.0222 Spring Concert 6:00, Grace Covenant Presbyterian Church. String and piano students ages 8-18 perform chamber music classics. 913.735.4532

11 wednesday Pop ‘n Play 9:00, Johnson County Museum. A drop-in program with age-appropriate activities for children 9 months to 3 years old. 913.715.2550 Stories for Ones 9:30, Waldo Library. Bring your 1-year-old to a story time geared toward this age group. 816.701.3486 Pixie Class 9:30, Skate City (Overland Park). Bring kids ages 2-6 to learn to skate safely while having fun. Snack included. $5. 913.888.6668 1860s Living History 10:00, Mahaffie Farmstead. Enjoy stagecoach rides, cook stove and blacksmith demonstrations. Every Sat and Sun thru Labor Day. $4-$6. 913.971.5111 Free Summer Movies Every Tue-Thu, Phoenix Theatre (Legends). Cool off from the summer heat with a free movie. Different movies each week. Doors open at 9:00. PhoenixTheatres.com

12 thursday

Cinderella 10:00 & Noon, Theatre for Young America (Union Station). A comic version of the well-known fairytale. TYA.org Visit LEGOLAND 10:00, LEGOLAND Discovery Center. Spend the day creating with Legos. Be sure to visit the newly remodeled Lego Friends area. 816.471.4386 Thomas Hart Benton Display 10:00, National World War I Museum. View a display describing the impact of Benton’s US Naval experience on his art. 816.888.8100 Wine, Cheese and Music 5:00, Wonderscope. A reception honoring the Johnson County Extension Master Gardeners in the Wonder Why Children’s Garden. $25. 913.287.8888

13 friday

Discovery of King Tut 10:00, Union Station. Let your footsteps retrace the paths of the breathtaking ancient Egyptian archeological site. $12.50$19.95. UnionStation.org

Train Rides 2:00, Belton, Grandview & KC RR. Enjoy an old-fashioned train ride Saturdays and Sundays through October. 816.331.0630

The Wizard of Oz Thru June 15, Starlight Theatre. Click your heels together and join Scarecrow, Tin Man, Lion, Dorothy and Toto as they journey through the magical land of Oz. KCStarlight.com

Tales for Tiny Tykes 9:30 & 10:30, Plaza Library. Toddlers ages 18-36 months can listen to a 20-minute story time followed with a craft. 816.701.3481

e Little M e’s Th erm ous aid H e r tu l u

Th e

ing for aging parents. Free. 913.599.6447

under the sea June is National Zoo and Aquarium Month, a perfect time to visit your favorite local aquariums and see underwater creatures face-to-face. Meet sea animals face-to-face at Sea Life Aquarium (VisitSeaLife.com), a favorite local attraction taking guests under the sea on a 2- to 3-hour journey from the fresh waters of the Missouri River, into the mighty Mississippi River, then out into the warm, blue, coralstrewn waters of the Caribbean Sea, ending in the deep, dark abyss of the Atlantic Ocean. Come nose to nose with sharks and enjoy astonishingly close views of everything from starfish and seahorses to graceful rays. A favorite is the tropical ocean tank with a walk-through underwater tunnel. Last fall, the Kansas City Zoo (KansasCityZoo.org) welcomed the much-anticipated Helzberg Penguin Plaza, where visitors watch more than 40 penguins swim, play, eat and splash in their world-class exhibit. Southern rockhoppers, gentoo, king penguins

kcparent.com june 2014

and Humboldts are part of the exhibit. Visitors also enjoy watching saltwater fish in the aquarium and moon jellies. For an extra special experience, visit the zoo’s calendar to learn about Penguin Pole-looza overnights in the exhibit. You can see native Missouri and Kansas fish at local nature centers and nature stores. Burr Oak Woods Nature Center (MDC.mo.gov/) features fish native to Missouri streams and lakes. Bass Pro Shops in Independence and Olathe (BassPro.com) and Cabela’s in Kansas City, KS (Cabelas. com), all feature large fish tanks displaying native fish and turtles. Children love watching these. The Culture House School of Dance brings to life to the beloved under-the-sea adventures of The Little Mermaid on June 13 & 14 at Olathe Northwest. This beautiful and exciting production is filled with fantastic costumes, characters and, of course, amazing dance! Don’t miss this production … come be a “part of our world”!

The Little Mermaid Noon & 7:00, Olathe Northwest High School. The Culture House school of dance brings the beloved tale to life. CultureHouse.com Music in the Park 6:30, Howard Station Park (Lee’s Summit). Bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy summer sounds in the park. Free. 816.246.6598 Ice Cream Train 7:00, Belton, Grandview and KC RR. Enjoy a train ride and an ice cream treat. A great summer evening! 816.331.6630 Film Fest 7:00, Mosaic Living (Shoal Creek). A family-friendly movie, healthy and delicious snack options and fun activities for kids of all ages. Free! Pre-reg at MyMosaicLifeCare.org/event. Wildlife Webs 7:00, Ernie Miller. Untangle the web of Kansas wildlife as you discover food chains from the forest, pond and prairie. $3. 913.764.7759 The Wizard of Oz Thru June 15, Starlight Theatre. Click your heels together and join Scarecrow, Tin Man, Lion, Dorothy and Toto as they journey through the magical land of Oz. KCStarlight.com Sundown Film Festival 9:00, Kansas Historical Society (Topeka). Bring blankets and chairs and enjoy a date night watching Grease under the stars. 785.272.8681

14 saturday Boat Show Today & tomorrow, Titanic Museum Attraction (Branson). Branson West Marine will be on hand to show off the newest, fastest and hottest boats. Free. 800.381.7670 Hope Challenge 5K 8:00, Theis Park. A familyfriendly run and walk through the Country Club Plaza. Benefits House of Hope. $25. HopeChallenge5K.com

FREE family fun

Get Outdoors 9:00, Black Hoof Park (Lenexa). Bring the entire family for a morning of outdoor fun, fitness and safety. Free. 913.477.7100 National Marina Day 10:00, Lake Jacomo. Fun activities include boat rides, fishing seminars, games, raffles, crafts, contests and more! Free. 816.795.8888 GeoKids 10:00, Overland Park Arboretum. Kids learn to use maps and a compass to go on a treasure hunt through the arboretum. Ages 7-11, $3-$6. 913.685.3604 Dairy Days 10:00, Deanna Rose Farmstead. A celebration of healthy kids and National Dairy Month. See live milking, butter churning, crafts and more. $2. 913.897.2360 Wonderpalooza 10:30, Wonderscope. Brandon Draper’s Drum Safari performs. Bring the family and enjoy the show. Free with museum admission. 913.287.8888 Father’s Day Pencil Holder 11:00, Lakeshore

The Annual Donald J. Hall Sculpture Park Celebration

Father’s Day |Sunday, June 15|1– 4 p.m. nelson-atkins.org/artpark kcparent.com june 2014

Learning. Surprise the world’s #1 dad with a super-handy pencil holder that kids create. Free. 913.432.3998 Sprint Family Fun Days 11:00, Power & Light District. An ultimate field day party, including rock climbing, puppet shows, pig races, KC sports mascots and more. Free admission. 816.842.1045 Funky Mama Performance 11:00, Bonner Springs Library. Spend the morning rocking out with Funky Mama. Free. 913.441.BOOK Treasure Island 11:00, Puppetry Arts Institute. Watch the classic brought to life with marionettes. $5. 816.833.9777 Meet Me at the Museum 1:00, Kemper Museum. Join a Kemper Museum docent for a lively discussion and tour of the museum’s current exhibitions. Free. 816.753.5784 Kids Team Up for Art 1:30, Kansas City Public Library (Plaza Branch). Focus on both individual skill building and the completion of a group project. WestportCenterForTheArts.org The Little Mermaid 2:00 & 7:00, Olathe Northwest High School. The Culture House school of dance brings the beloved tale to life. CultureHouse.com Saturday Night Feeder Saturdays thru Oct, 4:00, Cedar Cove Feline Sanctuary. Watch the cats being fed. $5. 816.739.0363

Hot Dog Train 7:00, Belton, Grandview & KC RR. Enjoy a hot dog dinner on the train! Buy tickets online or hour before departure (cash or check). 816.331.0630 Firefly Magic 7:30, Burr Oak Woods Nature Center. Learn about these favorite insects and hike into darkening woods to watch fireflies appear. Pre-reg at 816.228.3766.

15 sunday: father’s day

A Not So Modern Family 9:30 & 11:00, Lenexa Baptist Church. Explore Biblical foundations on topics such as marriage, raising children and caring for aging parents. Free. 913.599.6447 Father’s Day at the Zoo 9:30, Kansas City Zoo. Celebrate dad with a relaxing day at the zoo. Dads receive free complimentary admission. Free Mini Golf 11:00, Cool Crest. Dads play free mini golf with each paying player at regular price. Bring the kids & play! CoolCrest.com Pops in the Park 1:00, Nelson-Atkins. Celebrate Father’s Day in the Sculpture Park. Play games, enjoy live jazz, feast on barbecue and discover amazing sculptures. Free. Nelson-Atkins.com Father’s Day Performance 1:30, Powell Gardens. Paul Mesner Puppets presents “Old MacDonald’s Rhyming Ranch.” Free with admission. 816.697.2600

16 monday

Visit Warm Springs Ranch Thru Oct 31, Warm Springs Ranch (Boonville). Take a day trip to the state-of-the-art Budweiser Clydesdale breeding farm. Pre-reg at WarmSpringsRanch.com. Toddle Time 10:00, Bonner Springs Community Center. Bring your kids to play on the large assortment of toys in the gym. $2. 913.422.7010 Winston Churchill: The Artist 10:00, Hallmark Visitors Center. Enjoy a rare opportunity to view the art of Churchill. Learn about his connection with Hallmark. 816.274.3613

17 tuesday

Cinderella 10:00, Theatre for Young America (Union Station). A comic version of the wellknown fairytale. TYA.org Creative Story Time 11:00, Ceramic Café. Hear a story, create a pottery piece and enjoy a simple snack. 913.383.0222 Story Time for Toddlers 6:30, MCPL (Liberty). Enjoy an evening story time and share a world of stories with your toddler. Ages 18-36 months. 816.781.9420 Popsicles in the Park 6:30, Santa Fe Park. Bring the entire family out for live music, puppet shows, art stations, raffled prizes and free Popsicles. 816.325.7370

Catch Dad’s Heart this Father’s Day

with a Personalized Keepsake

20% OFF one piece of pottery with coupon

Offer expires 6/30/14. 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

kcparent.com june 2014

We Will Rock You Through June 22, Starlight. Musical which features the greatest hits of the legendary British rock group, Queen. KCStarlight.com

18 wednesday

Animal Tales 10:30, Ernie Miller Nature Center. Visit the nature center for stories, songs and surprises. Meet a special animal friend every time. $2. 913.764.7759

Celebrate the future of the arts in Kansas City with performances and interactive arts activities.

FUN FOR ALL AGES!

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang 11:00, the Coterie. Take a musical adventure with an out-of-this-world car that flies through the air and sails the seas. TheCoterie.org Power Hour 1:00, Little Monkey Bizness. Arrive between 1:00 and 3:00 on Mondays and Wednesdays and admission is just $5 plus tax! 913.631.7000

Free Admission!

Hard Hat Tour 2:00, Kansas City Museum. Take a hard hat tour of Corinthian Hall and see how it looks mid-renovation. KansasCityMuseum.org

FUTURE STAGES FESTIVAL Sunday, June 22, 2014 12:00–5:00 p.m.

Belton Community Days Thru Saturday, Markey Park. Annual festival with a parade on Saturday, carnival rides, booths and entertainment. 816.331.4331

19 thursday

Thanks to:

Music Together Training Thru Saturday, First Baptist Church (Lawrence). Train to become a Music Together instructor. MusicTogether.com

TUT

TRAIN RIDES

TUESDAYS

Ice Cream Train

.com

Every Tuesday this summer, KC Parent is giving away 2 family 4-packs of tickets to The Discovery of King Tut at Union Station (a $3,000 value). Follow KC Parent on Facebook for instructions every Tuesday with #TutTuesdaysKC.

$10.50 Every Friday, June - Aug. 7 pm

Kids under three FREE

Train Rides

$9.50; Regular Trains Depart Sat, 2 pm [May - Oct] Sun, 2 pm [May - June/Sept - Oct] Sat., 11 am [June - Aug only]

Hot Dog Train $10.50 2nd Sat., July & Aug. 7 pm

Charters • Field Trips or Birthday Parties, plan by appointment. Tickets go on sale one hour before train departure time. Cash or check only.

Purchase online with credit card.

Belton, Grandview & Kansas City Railroad Co.

502 Walnut •Belton, Missouri • 816-331-0630 • www.beltonrailroad.org kcparent.com june 2014

take note: june ’14

June 1, Superman’s Birthday: No one is certain where Smallville, KS, childhood home of Superman, is supposed to be, but last year Hutchinson residents renamed their community Smallville for one day in June to celebrate the boyhood home of one of the world’s most recognizable superheroes. This year, they are hosting a Smallville Festival on June 19-22 with Superman-themed fun.

National Fruit & Vegetables Month: Nothing tastes better than fresh food! Visit KCParent.com for a list of local farmers markets and enjoy fresh produce with dinner tonight.

June 7, National Crayon Day: Treat the kids to lunch at Crayola Café (CrayolaCafe.com) then enjoy free art at Kaleidoscope (HallmarkKaleidoscope.com), where kids create their own art projects with melted crayons under a black light in a glow-in the-dark room.

June 12, Red Rose Day: Enjoy the roses at Loose Park (51st & Wornall, Kansas City, MO), a 75-acre park with a beautiful rose garden. After taking photos with your favorite flowers, play on the playground, walk the trails or cool off in the free sprayground. June 19, Butterfly Day: Visit the Butterfly Garden at Lowenstein Park (1901 NW Lowenstein Dr., Lee’s Summit, MO), where flowers have been planted to attract butterflies. June 21, First Day of Summer: Celebrate with a frozen treat at your favorite ice cream shop! Visit KCParent.com and search “Best Ice Cream” for a guide to great shops.

Dairy Month: Take a tour of Shatto Dairy Farm (9406 N. Hwy. 33, Osborn, MO, 816.930.3862, ShattoMilk.com), a working dairy farm and milk bottling company offering tours to groups of any size. On June 21, visit Shatto for their annual free Family Day. This free event celebrates June as dairy month and thanks the entire metropolitan region for supporting Shatto Milk Company, the area’s true local family dairy farm. Enjoy entertainment, hayrides and free samples.

National Candy Month: KC is home to many fabulous candy shops and candy makers, but one of the most exquisite has to be Christopher Elbow (ElbowChocolates.com). Each piece of candy is a tiny work of art, painted to make a beautiful snack or an even more beautiful gift.

kcparent.com june 2014

June 15, Father’s Day: Visit KCParent.com for a complete guide to local events and free admission attractions in honor of Dad.

Gardens Gone Wild

Thru Oct 5, Powell Gardens. Follow the adventure guide and take a photo with all of the animals that have gone wild in the garden! Post with #GardensGoneWild for your chance to win prizes!

Paint a pottery piece that goes along with a favorite story. Snack included. $13-$15. Pre-reg. 913.661.2529 Story Time 11:00, Reader’s World Lee’s Summit. Every Friday enjoy story time with a story, crafts and a snack. Free. 816.246.7323 Englewood Art Walk 5:30, Englewood Shopping District. See artists in action, enjoy demonstrations and relish live music and refreshments. 816.252.3372

Flower Anklet Craft 4:00, American Girl Doll Store. Girls can create a tropical anklet for themselves and their dolls. Free. AmericanGirl.com

Geocaching 6:00, Shawnee Mission Park. A modern-day scavenger hunt. Participants receive a GPS and an introduction on how to geocache. $10-$30. Pre-reg at 913.826.3160.

Family Fun Night 6:00, Mahaffie Stagecoach. Enjoy free admission and different activities based on a theme. Tonight’s theme: Border War. 913.971.8563

We Will Rock You Through June 22, Starlight. Musical which features the greatest hits of the legendary British rock group, Queen. KCStarlight.com

20 friday

Movie in the Park 9:00, Oak Grove Park (Gladstone). Enjoy Despicable Me ll in the great outdoors. Concessions available for purchase. 816.436.2200

Paint Me a Story 10:30, Paint, Glaze and Fire.

21 saturday Outpace Poverty 7:30, Liberty Memorial. A family-friendly 5K that raises money to fight poverty in the community. Free registration; donations welcome. 816.659.8226 Busker Festival 8:30, City Market. Enjoy circus style performances at the City Market--fire breathers, aerial trapeze, glass walking, juggling, and more! Free. TheCityMarket.org

a KC celebration of all things chocolate chip A Chocolaty Tour

Tour Chip’s Chocolate Factory (at Crown Center, 2450 Grand Ave., Suite 239, Kansas City, MO, 816.421.0012, ChipsChocolateFactory.com), a true treat for the senses! From the delicious aroma of warm chocolate to the tasty samples and beautiful artistry of fudge makers’ preparing handmade confections in copper kettles and forming them on marble slabs, Chip’s is a delight for all ages. With a vision for entertaining and educating, the shop was designed for live demonstrations, which are offered daily.

These local businesses serve up some of the tastiest chocolate chip treats in town!

The Best Chocolate Chip Cookie in Town Only at Best Regards Bakery & Café (6759 W. 119th St., Overland Park, KS, 913.782.1505, MakeThemSmile.com) can you enjoy a signature chocolate chip cookie that took three months and 72 test recipes to perfect! Moms can relax because BRB&C is committed to using the healthiest ingredients and the finest products they can find. Chocolate Chip Pancakes & Waffles You won’t leave hungry after a trip to the Big Biscuit (BigBiscuitRestaurant.com). It offers one of the biggest home-style breakfast menus in town, with an entire section devoted just to pancakes…including chocolate chip pancakes! Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cupcakes, Stuffed Cookies and Cheesecake Gigi’s (6780 W. 135th St., Overland Park, KS, 913.814.3883, GigisCupcakesUSA.com) is a national chain with a location nearby in Overland Park. They offer both regular and mini cupcakes. One all-time favorite is the chocolate chip cookie dough cupcake. Chocolate Chip Cannoli Holy cannoli—the cannoli at Metuka, The Pastry House (1614 W. 39th St., Kansas City, MO), are sinfully decadent! What makes these cannoli extra special are the chocolate chips. No soggy cannoli at this patisserie. kcparent.com june 2014

Wild Edibles Hike 9:00, Burr Oak Woods Nature Center. Stroll through the Little Blue Trace Trail to discover edible plants. Pre-reg at 816.228.3766. Mother Nature Reads 10:00, Lakeside Nature Center. Hear a story, learn cool facts about animals and make a craft. 816.513.8960 Garden Party 10:00, Shawnee Town. This year’s party honors the women of the 1920s with a living history portrayal of Amelia Earhart. Crafts, games, hair-styling and more! $10. 913.248.2360 Fiesta Kansas City Today & tomorrow, Crown Center Square. Celebrate Hispanic culture with music, food, dancing and exhibits. FiestaKansasCity.com Scavenger Saturdays 10:00, Kemper Museum of Art. Follow the clues on this “ART-astic” adventure! 816.753.5784 Backyard Buggin10:30, Powell Gardens. Discover the critters in your own backyard and what it takes to create a backyard sanctuary. Puppet performance by StoneLion Puppets. 816.697.2600 My Summer Break Journal 11:00, Lakeshore Learning. Children craft a super-cool journal and then fill it with summertime memories they’ll cherish for years! Free. 913.432.3998 Family Day at the Farm 11:00, Shatto Milk Company. Celebrate 11 years of Shatto milk with lots of fun activities and, of course, milk! Free. 816.930.2313 Victorian Tea 1:00, Battle of Lexington Historic Site. Enjoy tea and desserts at the Anderson House. 660.259.4654 Kids Team Up for Art 1:30, Kansas City Public Library (Southeast Branch). Focus on both individual skill building and the completion of a group project. WestportCenterForTheArts.org Flower Anklet Craft 2:00, American Girl Doll Store. Girls can create a tropical anklet for themselves and their dolls. Free. AmericanGirl.com Saturday Night Feeder Saturdays thru Oct, 4:00, Cedar Cove Feline Sanctuary. Watch the cats being fed. $5. 816.739.0363 Dive-In Movie 8:30, Roeland Park Aquatic Center. Spend time in the water while enjoying a family-friendly movie. $3-$4. 913.432.1377 Saturday Night Movies 8:45, Mulberry Lake. Enjoy Toy Story 3 with your family under the night sky. Don’t forget lawn chairs, blankets and snacks. 816.741-8540 Overnight Fishing 11:00, Shawnee Mission Park. The park will be open for fishing only, and park police officers will be on duty throughout the night. 913.888.4713

22 sunday

Touch-a-Truck 11:00, Overland Park Convention Center. Kids of all ages can see trucks and cars up close. Free with two-can donation for Harvesters. 913.339.3000 Future Stages Festival Noon, Kauffman Center. A fun-filled day for families. Experience a diverse range of performance and interactive activities. Free. 816.994.7229 art + family = FUN 1:00, Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Join us every Saturday and Sunday for free activities for all ages! 816.751.1278 Train Rides 2:00, Belton, Grandview & KC RR. Enjoy an old-fashioned train ride Saturdays and Sundays through October. 816.331.0630 Big Daddy Weave 6:00, Lenexa Baptist Church. Hear the Dove Award winning “Big Daddy Weave” in concert. $15. LenexaBaptist.com

kcparent.com june 2014

Pool Party and Hot Dog Dinner 6:30, Thomas A Soetaert Aquatic Center. Splash into summer at Grace Christian Fellowship Church’s pool party. Free. 913.484.5099 Taps at the Tower National World War I Museum. “Taps” performed at sunset from June 22 through June 28 at the Liberty Memorial. Free with museum admission. 816.888.8100

23 monday

Visit Warm Springs Ranch Thru Oct 31, Warm Springs Ranch (Boonville). Take a day trip to the state-of-the-art Budweiser Clydesdale breeding farm. Pre-reg at WarmSpringsRanch.com. Discovery of King Tut 10:00, Union Station. Let your footsteps retrace the paths of the breathtaking ancient Egyptian archeological site. $12.50-$19.95. UnionStation.org All-You-Can-Play Day 10:00, Cool Crest. On Mondays and Thursdays get unlimited mini golf, two go-kart rides and 10 arcade tokens for only $10.99. CoolCrest.com

24 tuesday

SH SHOP

SHOP Research Weird-Wacky-and-Sometimes-Edible Science 9:00, Jo Co K-State AS CITY’S ONLY and Extension. Experiment with different ingredients. $30. 913.715.7000 KANS

Toddler Time 9:30, Sky Zone. If you can walk, then you can jump! Toddler Time is for the little ones to have their own jump time. $7. 913.213.5900

E X C LU S IV E

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang 11:00, the Coterie. Take a musicalL adventure with i m it e d Ti m e an out-of-this-world car that flies through the air and sails the seas. TheCoterie.org

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Popsicles in the Park 6:30, Bundschu Park. Bring the entire family out for live music, puppet shows, art stations, raffled prizes and free Popsicles. 816.325.7370

25 wednesday

Free Play Cedar Ridge Christian Church. Daily free play for young children while parents enjoy a coffee drink. 913.393.3000 Rockin’ Rob 10:30, Downtown Overland Park. Visit the farmers market and enjoy kid rocker Rockin’ Rob. Free. 913.642.2222 Free Summer Movies Every Tue-Thu, Phoenix Theatre (Legends). Cool off from the summer heat with a free movie. Different movies each week. Doors open at 9:00. PhoenixTheatres.com Taps at the Tower National World War I Museum. “Taps” performed at sunset from June 22 through June 28 at the Liberty Memorial. Free with museum admission. 816.888.8100

26 thursday

Laser Tag 9:30, Paradise Park. Bring the family out to play and enjoy the newest attraction, laser tag! Paradise-Park.com Cinderella 10:00 & Noon, Theatre for Young America (Union Station). A comic version of the well-known fairytale. TYA.org 1860s Living History 10:00, Mahaffie Farmstead. Enjoy stagecoach rides, cook stove and blacksmith demonstrations. Every Sat and Sun thru Labor Day. $4-$6. 913.971.5111

It’s what Legends is made of STYLE. SELECTION. SAVINGS. SUMMER SAVINGS FROM 25% TO 65% AT OVER 100 STORES INCLUDING: Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5TH • Nike Factory Store Banana Republic Factory Store • Tommy Hilfiger Stride Rite Outlet • Carter’s • Gap Outlet Polo Ralph Lauren Factory Store J.Crew | crewcuts • Gymboree Outlet Cole Haan • White House | Black Market Outlet Under Armour® • And many more...

Ice Cream Social 4:30, Ceramic Café. Paint a ceramic ice cream bowl and then make your own sundae with Foo’s frozen custard. $14.50. 913.383.0222

27 friday

Story Time 11:00, Reader’s World Lee’s Summit. Every Friday enjoy story time with a story, crafts and a snack. Free. 816.246.7323

I-435, Exit Parallel Pkwy West 913.788.3700 • LegendsShopping.com kcparent.com june 2014

Kids Night Out Beach Party 6:00, Roeland Park Comm Center. Kids will enjoy dinner, games and creating sugar sand castles. Ages 8-12. $11. 913.826.3160 Great Lenexa BBQ Battle Today & tomorrow, Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park. Dine on some tasty barbecue while children enjoy activities and live music. 913.477.7500 Ice Cream Train 7:00, Belton, Grandview and KC RR. Enjoy a train ride and an ice cream treat. A great summer evening! 816.331.6630 Film Fest 7:00, Mosaic Living (Shoal Creek). A family-friendly movie, healthy and delicious snack options and fun activities for kids of all ages. Free! Pre-reg at MyMosaicLifeCare.org/event. Sand Cinema 9:00, Longview Lake Beach. Load the kids in the car and head to the movies on the big screen at Longview Lake Beach! $5/car. 816.503.4800

28 saturday Overland Park Farmers Market 6:30, Downtown OP. Shop for a wide variety of products from farmfresh produce and local foods to unique specialty items. 913.895.6390 Maker Faire Today & tomorrow, Union Station. Family-friendly event that demonstrates what peole are inventing, creating and making. MakerFaireKC.com

Music and Lyrics by Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman Adapted for the stage by Jeremy Sams and Ray Roderick Based on the MGM Motion Picture Part of The Coterie's Lab for New Family Musicals World Premiere Theatre for Young Audiences version directed by Jeff Church

Take a fantastic musical adventure with an out-of-this-world car that flies through the air and sails the seas. The sensational songs include Truly Scrumptious, Toot Sweets, Hushabye Mountain, and the Oscar-nominated title song, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang!

kcparent.com june 2014

Super Saturdays 10:00-Noon, Cool Crest. For only $10.99 enjoy unlimited mini golf, two gokart rides and 40 arcade tokens. CoolCrest.com Reptile & Exotic Animal Expo 10:00, Abdallah Shrine Center. Exciting, educational, family-oriented fun for everyone! $5-$10. Repticon.com Thomas Hart Benton Display 10:00, National World War I Museum. View a display describing the impact of Benton’s US Naval experience on his art. 816.888.8100 Atlatl for Families 10:30, Burr Oak Woods. Bring your family for some outdoor fun and learn all about an atlatl. Pre-reg at 816.228.3766. Picture Frame 11:00, Lakeshore Learning. Summertime fun can last forever with a beautiful picture frame to capture kids’ favorite moments. Free. 913.432.3998 Independence Day at Lanesfield 1:00, Lanesfield Historic Site. Drop in to see the school decorated for an old-fashioned Independence Day. Make a craft. Free. 913.893.6645 Saturday Night Movies 8:45, Mulberry Lake. Watch Thor, Dark World under the night sky. Don’t forget lawn chairs, blankets and snacks. 816.741-8540

29 sunday City Market Farmers Market 8:00, City Market.

Find great produce from the surrounding region and support local farmers. TheCityMarket.org art + family = FUN 1:00, Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Join us every Saturday and Sunday for free activities for all ages! 816.751.1278 Chitty Chitty Bang Bang 2:00, the Coterie. Take a musical adventure with an out-of-this-world car that flies through the air and sails the seas. TheCoterie.org Music in the Park 6:00, Rotary Park (Blue Springs). Bring a blanket and enjoy music in a park setting. Free. 816.228.0137

30 monday Gardens Gone Wild 9:00, Powell Gardens. This summer see a 12-foot elephant, a pair of wrestling bears and a 5-foot-tall hen at the gardens. 816.697.2600 Toddler Town Unlimited Play 10:00, Amazing Play. Young ones will enjoy running off energy and exploring in Toddler Town! $6. 816.994.2160

For a list of fireworks displays all over the metro, visit KCParent.com.

Explore an Amazing Underwater World

olivia’s House now open!

Book online for Great SavinGS

www.visitsealife.com/ kansas-city Located at Crown Center in Kansas City, MO Book online for Great SavinGS

www.leGolanDDiscoveryCenter.com/kansascity

Claws Exhibit Now Open

• factory tour • 4D Cinema • leGo MinilanD • leGo rides • Play Zone • Celebration rooms • leGo Shop, Café and Much More! ®

Save up to $15 off admission!

Save up to $15 off admission

Terms & Conditions - Please present the coupon when purchasing tickets. This discount is not valid with other discounts, coupons or offers and can not be used with online or pre-booked tickets. Duplications or sale of this offer is prohibited. No cash value. Not redeemable for cash or credit. Valid until 12/31/2014. Reference - 1304

Terms & Conditions - Please present the coupon when purchasing tickets. This discount is not valid with other discounts coupons or offers and can not be used with online or pre-booked tickets. Duplications or sale of this offer is prohibited. No cash value. Not redeemable for cash or credit.Valid until 12/31/2014. Reference - 1303

Save $3 off admission to LEGOLAND Discovery Center Kansas City up to a maximum of 5 guests with this coupon.

Save $3 off admission to SEA LIFE Kansas City up to a maximum of 5 guests with this coupon.

kcparent.com june 2014

relax in the sun, dinner’s done with Dream Dinners!

Even though it’s summer your family still wants dinner every night...

INTRODUCTORY OFFER! 6 MEALS FOR $74.95, WANT TO LEARN MORE?

kcparent.com june 2014

www.dreamdinners.com 119METCALFKS@DREAMDINNERS.COM 913.491.6733

EXPLORE KANSAS

CITY ZOO Watch Polar Bears Flip and Splash at Polar Bear Passage, Penguins Waddle and dive at Helzberg Penguin Plaza and much, much more!

Always a new adventure!

2014 FOTZ Memberships NOW AVAILABLE! 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 kcparent.com accredited by the june 2014 67 Association of Zoos and Aquariums.

At Saint Luke’s South Hospital, we’ll ensure those first moments are unforgettable For this special occasion, count on us. From our nurse midwife program guiding natural childbirth to high-tech care for high-risk pregnancies, our maternity experts will make your birthing experience as comfortable, secure, and joyous as possible. Our spacious birthing suites let you deliver, recover, and remain in the same room your entire stay. You’ll spend those first days bonding with your newborn without interruptions—the way it should be.

kcparent.com june 2014

Learn more: saintlukeshealthsystem.org/SouthBaby Schedule a tour: 913-317-7795