Experience a mile-long spectacle of intricate lighted sculptures, crafted by 151 artisans using over 34 tons of steel and 89,000 feet of fabric. an enchanting nighttime journey! september 6december 29
Atlantis, dinosaurs, pirates, and more!
Enchanted forest, fairy garden, dragons, and more!
Susan L. Storm MD
Laurie D. Riddell MD
Ermalyn Kubart MD
Stephanie A Marx MD
Kathyrn Hauptmann MD
Melissa J. Beard MD
Stephanie R. Bays DO
Heather J. Malone MD
Kathleen Ballenger PNP
Monica M. Rondeau PNP
Kelly Walther PNP
Susan L. Storm MD
Laurie E. Riddell MD
Ermalyn Kubart MD
Stephanie A. Marx MD
Kathryn Hauptmann MD
Melissa J. Beard MD
Stephanie R. Bays DO
Susan L. Storm MD
Laurie D. Riddell MD
Ermalyn Kubart MD
Stephanie A Marx MD
Kathyrn Hauptmann MD
Melissa J. Beard MD
Stephanie R. Bays DO
Heather J. Malone MD
Heather J. Malone MD
Kathleen Ballenger PNP
Kathleen Ballenger PNP
Amanda Finn DO
Nick Stasic MD
Monica Rondeau PNP
Veda Donner PNP
Dee McGuire FNP
editor’s letter
Welcome, fall. I do love all the seasons, and fall brings a refreshing respite.
With fall, I am beginning to think about the holidays. As such, I shamelessly want to encourage you to peek at Rattle On for some great gif ideas, several of which are curated and crafed here in the Kansas City area. Way to go, local parents; you’re remarkable! I’d love to hear about local makers you know— whether they craf for kids or K-State fans (another personal passion)! My email is there to the right.
My oldest arrived on the scene days prior to Christmas, and we’ve been trying to make sure her birthday is special ever since. Sarah Lyons shares some winsome First Birthday ideas, including Tips and Traditions, on pg. 32. Comparison is the thief of joy, so look around for ideas, but create what works for you! My mother-in-law makes elaborate, amazing birthday cakes to this day (even for her grown kids); I have been known to do an average icing job and stick a Fisher Price little person (or penguin) on top and call it good! Savor the moments and make the memories as time marches on.
Speaking of comparison, if you’ve had a kiddo in the NICU, it’s hard to see past the moments of survival. While none of my babies were in the NICU, my frst son didn’t hit a height/weight benchmark and was labeled “failure to thrive”; I was devastated. Tat season didn’t last long (though it felt like forever in the midst of it)—he turned a corner on his own timetable and has been thriving ever since. Don’t lose hope!
Savor the seasons of life day by beautiful day. Enjoy our Kansas City community during this wonderful season. Kristina Light has compiled a few classic Autumn Must-See experiences to delight your senses (pg. 28).
Enjoy KC this season,
Lauri Clapper, Editor
Publisher Michael Gimotty Michael@KCParent.com
Associate Publisher
Darrell Dean Darrell@KCParent.com
Editor Lauri Clapper Lauri@FamilyMediaGroup.com
Art Director Kim Tappan Tappan Design TappanDesign@Gmail.com
Advertising Sales Darrell Dean Darrell@KCParent.com
Digital Engagement Manager Halley Zitterkopf Halley@KCParent.com
Copy Editor Kelsey Beck Kelsey@KCParent.com
Distribution To be added to our distribution list, email Distribution@KCParent.com
11937 W. 119th #335, Overland Park, KS 66213 913.782.3238 phone • 913.681.5139 fax
with corn on the cob painting
what better way to get into the fall spirit than to create a craft with corn on the cob? This is a longer, messy project that is sure to bring big smiles to tiny faces!
Supplies:
• 1 corn on the cob per paint color (we used 3), ideally with the stalk on
• Assorted paints (we used red, yellow, and orange)
• Paper plates (large enough to hold your corn on the cob)
• Plastic tablecloth (for easy cleanup)
• Painter’s tape
• Large sheet of paper or several smaller pieces of paper
• Paper towels or craft towels
• Optional: Craft aprons
Directions:
Step one: Peel corn on the cob. Ideally, leave a piece of the stalk on the cob to create a handle. Wash and dry. Set aside.
Step two: Cover table with plastic tablecloth.
Step three: Lay out blank craft paper and tape down to tablecloth.
Step four: Pour one paint color onto each paper plate. This is a great chance to talk about primary and secondary colors!
Step fve: Place corn on the cob on paper plate and rotate it like you would a paint roller.
Step six: Paint the paper!
Step seven: Allow to dry overnight and hang to display your fall family painting!
Pro tip: If you have access to a giant roll of craft paper, this would make an amazing table runner to jazz up your Thanksgiving table!
Janelle Cumro-Sultzer lives in Manhattan, Kansas with her husband, 3 children (1, 3 and 5) and 2 senior dogs. Janelle is a homeschooling mom who enjoys writing in her spare time. Janelle loves to focus on learning through play and getting messy with crafts.
THE BEST MAC AND CHEESE ACROSS KC
Enjoy all things mac and cheese with our roundup of the tastiest eateries serving the all-American comfort food in KC .
Brown and Loe: Another Downtown KCMO restaurant, Brown and Loe also has popular mac and cheese dishes. A popular menu item is the smoked Gouda mac, which is often praised for its flavor and consistency. Address: 429 Walnut St., Kansas City, Mo., 64106
Lula Southern Cookhouse: This restaurant in the Crossroads is dedicated to Southern American comfort food. With items on the menu ranging from fried chicken to seafood, you have lots of options. Its mac and cheese dishes are loved by many customers. Address: 1617 Main St., Kansas City, Mo., 64108
Cheesy Street: Cheesy Street is a Kansas City area food truck known for “gourmet grilled cheese and loaded mac & cheese.” You can get a mac and cheese entree or order it as a side. Book this food truck for your next event or visit the website to see where they’re going to be next! CheesyStreetKC.fun
Coast to Coast Pub: This restaurant, owned by the Martin City Brewing Company, serves a lot of different styles of mac and cheese, including lobster mac and cowboy mac. Both of these dishes are popular choices. Besides macaroni and cheese, you can also choose from many seafood dishes. Address: 500 E 135th St., Kansas City, Mo., 64145
Lyra Thompson is a born-and-raised Kansas girl with a passion for writing and all things local.
Peekaboo Pillow
Dreamt up by a dad in the KC metro, the Peekaboo Pillow is fabulous! I got this hoping it would help my mom hold her newest grandson, yet my sister truly appreciated it! This is the comfest way to sit faceto-face with your baby (and give your arms a rest)! Also terrifc for tummy time, feedings and sitting up. Handmade in the USA! PeekabooPillow.com
Milli Baby Towel
Aura Frame
Photos from your phone to their frame. Create community and engagement near and far. Add to it from anywhere! For example, if you’re in KC and the grandparents are in Pennsylvania, set them up with the frame, get the app on your phone and post photos straight from your phone to their frame! Worth every single penny! Enjoy sharing! AuraFrames.com
FIVE THINGS WE
RATTLE ON ABOUT CURRENTLY
Compiled by Lauri Clapper
Jet
A hands-free bath towel? Yes, please! And invented in the KC area, no less! Milli Baby is all about ease, comfort and functionality not just for the baby, but for you as the parent and caregiver. Finally—you CAN stay dry and wrangle the wet wee one. What an ingenious idea! ShopMilliBaby.com
Simply Sweet Designs
If you ever need a little help getting something in their mouth, Jet is your new go-to! Whether you need help with medicine, formula or baby food puree, this truly innovative dispenser (that doubles as a teether) is a game-changer! It’s mess-free and easy to grasp. And let’s be honest—it’s adorable and you’re even gonna have FUN “playing airplane”! TheCleverBaby.com
Curated in the KC area, Simply Sweet is a product line of truly sweet and timeless pieces that spark joy and confdence in little girls. With charming prints and beautiful details, these will be long-loved and even cherished and passed down. ShopSimplySweet.net
KC PARENT FAMILY
Thank you to our readers who voted in KC Parent’s Family Favorites 2024! We appreciate your support for this tradition for over 35 years.
After tabulating over 30,000 votes, we are pleased to announce the businesses which have been chosen as a KC Parent Family Favorite 2024!
Favorite Animal Attraction
Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium
Favorite Children’s Museum
Wonderscope Children’s Museum of KC
Favorite Art Museum
Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
Favorite History Museum
National WWI Museum and Memorial
Favorite Living History Museum
Missouri Town Living History Museum
Mahaffe Stagecoach Stop & Farm
Favorite Science Museum
Science City at Union Station
Favorite Specialty Museum
Negro Leagues Baseball Museum
Favorite Live Theater
Starlight Theatre
Favorite Family Fun Center
Main Event
Favorite Garden / Nature Center
Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens
Favorite Free Attraction
Hallmark’s Kaleidoscope
Favorite Pumpkin Patch
Carolyn’s Pumpkin Patch
Johnson Farms Plants and Pumpkins
Favorite Agritourism Site
Louisburg Cider Mill & Pumpkin Patch
Favorite U-Pick Farm
Historic Weston Orchard
FAVORITES 2024
Favorite Free Christmas Attraction
Crown Center Holiday Traditions
Favorite Paid Christmas Attraction
Kansas City Ballet’s Nutcracker
Favorite Festival
KC Renaissance Festival
Favorite New Attraction
Sobela Aquarium at Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium
Favorite Place to Have a Baby in Missouri
Saint Luke’s Hospital of Kansas City
Favorite Place to Have a Baby in Kansas
AdventHealth Shawnee Mission
Best Emergency Room
Children’s Mercy Hospital
Favorite Pediatric Dentist
The Smile Spot
LeBlanc & Associates
Favorite Orthodontist
Fry Orthodontics
Favorite Swim School
Goldfsh Swim School
Favorite Tutoring
Sylvan Learning
Favorite Photographer
Becca Blackburn Photography
Favorite Weekend Getaway
Branson, Missouri
Favorite Party Venue (for ages 0-5)
Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead
Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium
Favorite Party Venue (for ages 6-11)
Legoland Discovery Center
Science City at Union Station
Favorite Party Venue (for ages 12 and up)
Chicken N Pickle
Urban Air Trampoline Park
Favorite Garden Supply / Nursery
Family Tree Nursery
Favorite Farmers Market
City Market
Favorite Shopping Center/ District
Town Center Plaza
Legends Outlets of Kansas City
Favorite Animal Rescue / Adoption
KC Pet Project
Wayside Waifs
Favorite Pet Day Care
Woof’s Play & Stay
Favorite Pet Training & Services
The Pet Connection
Favorite Pet Emergency Room
BluePearl Pet Hospital
F iesta Snacks
Having fun in the kitchen can be an easy way to get kids involved for a family-friendly activity. These Fiesta Snacks call for flavors many kids love stacked up in a way that allows them to aid in the process.
INGREDIENTS
• 1 lb. chicken, chopped
• 1/2 c. salsa, divided
• 1/4 c. sour cream
• 8 tortillas (8 inches)
• 1/3 c. refried beans
• 1/2 c. guacamole
• 6 oz. shredded cheese
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Heat oven to 350 F.
2. In skillet, cook chopped chicken until done.
3. In medium bowl, mix cooked chicken, 1/4 cup salsa and sour cream until blended.
4. In small bowl, mix refried beans and remaining salsa until blended.
5. Lay two tortillas on baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Spread chicken mixture over both tortillas. Place second set of tortillas over chicken mixture. Spread guacamole over top tortillas. Place third set of tortillas on top and spread refried bean mixture over tortillas. Place fourth set of tortillas on top and sprinkle shredded cheese over tortillas.
7. Bake 10 minutes until cheese is melted.
Recipe courtesy of Culinary.net
BOOSTING BABY’S IMMUNE SYSTEM
As parents, we hate to see our babies get sick. According to the Mayo Clinic, babies get six to eight colds in their frst year, and even more if they go to a child care center. Te good news is that every time they get sick, they develop new antibodies that will help protect them in the future. But what else can we do as parents to boost their immune systems?
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is a good way to give your child an immune system boost. A mother develops antibodies when exposed to germs, and those antibodies are passed to the baby through breast milk. Breast milk also passes proteins, fats, sugars and white blood cells to your baby that help fght infections. Colostrum, the milk produced in the frst few days of nursing, is especially rich in antibodies.
Healthy Diet
Once your child is weaned, you can boost vitamins though the food they eat. Children should be getting fve servings of fruits and vegetables per day. It’s also important to avoid processed foods, added sugars and unhealthy fats. A healthy diet will help your child get vitamins such as zinc, vitamin C, A and E, all of which help boost the immune system. Talk with your doctor before giving any additional supplements to your child.
Wash Hands
Handwashing is one of the easiest ways to protect against illness. Before feeding or touching your baby, wash your hands. As they get older, teach your children the importance of good handwashing habits—washing before eating is especially important. Kids touch absolutely everything and collect germs everywhere they go, so make sure they wash afer playing outside or coming home from day care. Make sure they wash their hands with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds. Have them sing a song like “Happy Birthday” or “Mary Had a Little Lamb” to ensure they’re washing long enough.
Limit Exposure
Newborns are especially susceptible to germs, so avoid taking your young infant to crowded public places. You might want to avoid large sporting events, airports and shopping centers for the frst couple months. You can also limit exposure to sickness by limiting visitors and making sure any visitors are symptom-free of any illness. Also, make sure all visitors wash their hands before holding your baby.
Get Outside
Time outdoors is great for your baby’s immune system. Vitamin D helps boost immunity and is absorbed through sun exposure. Getting fresh air in the winter is good for your baby as well, but in small doses. Just make sure they are bundled up and protected from the cold.
Stay Hydrated
Keeping your baby hydrated is an easy way to keep him healthy. Start with more of what she is currently consuming (breastmilk or formula) and consult with your health care provider for the best timeline to introduce water as it helps fght of illnesses by fushing toxins out of the body.
Keep Clean
Clean your baby’s toys and pacifers ofen. It’s especially important to sanitize frequently if he or she shares toys with other children. A quick wash with warm water and dish soap should do the trick. If your child goes to day care, ask about the facility’s toy sanitization process.
A Good Night’s Rest
Adequate sleep is vital to your baby’s overall health. When we sleep, our immune system releases cytokines— proteins that fght infection and infammation. Babies 0–3 months need 14–17 hours of sleep daily, while babies 4–12 months need 12–16 hours per day.
Regan Lyons is a girl mom and freelance writer. She lives with her husband, Cale, and daughters, Atley, 10, and Ensley, 4, in St. Joseph.
As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns.
PULLED TWO WAYS: Balancing Life with a NICU Baby and Kids at Home
“My heart is in three places.” Tose were the words going through my mind as I drove between the hospital and our home seven years ago. Our family grew by three overnight with the birth of our triplets in 2014. At the time we already had three young children, and because the triplets were born six weeks early, they spent time in the NICU. To make it more difcult, one of the babies was transferred to another hospital where she would have open heart surgery and stay to recover. Tis lef us with three kids at home, two babies in a NICU 10 minutes away and one baby in a diferent hospital 30 minutes from home. I felt like my heart was broken into three pieces as I tried to split my time equally while weighing who needed me most at any given moment. It was a very challenging time both emotionally and physically.
According to the National Library of Medicine, between 10 and 15 percent of births in the United States result in the baby being admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). For many parents, the baby in the NICU is not their frstborn. Tis creates the challenge of balancing home life, work, recovery from childbirth, and care for older children with time spent in the hospital with the baby. Attempting this balancing act creates stress for everyone involved. Kansas City families who have been in this situation have some priceless information for families who may face this challenge in the future.
Your baby is in good hands
When you are away from your baby, it’s normal to have feelings of guilt and worry. Rest assured, your child is getting the best care at the hospital with experienced NICU doctors and nurses. “I had to realize my baby was in wonderful hands even when we weren’t with him,” says Jennifer Rogers. “His nurse loved him and cared for him just as well as we would have.” Knowing this makes it easier to focus your time and energy on your older children when you are away.
This too shall pass
Be present
For parents struggling to fnd a balance between home and the hospital it is always best to focus on the moment. “You can’t be both places at once, as much as you may want to be. It is important to be present in the moment,” says Gardner mother of three Jennifer Rogers. “If I was at home with my older two, that is where my focus and energy went. If I was at the NICU, the baby would be the center of my attention.”
Find a routine that works
Each family is unique and will have diferent schedules and needs. Te key is to fnd a routine that will work best for you. “My 3-year-old went to day care during the day, and I spent that time at the NICU. I would spend the evening with my family at home. Tis helped my 3-year-old feel normal, which
transferred to my feeling more normal as well,” says Nathalie McKenzie, mother of two from Kansas City, Mo. Laura Colon, mom of three, shares a diferent tactic her family used: “My husband and I split the time. He went during the day, and I was usually there at night.”
Distance creates even more challenges, but routine can help there, too. “When my youngest was born at 27 weeks, we lived an hour from the hospital,” says Amber Roudebush, mother of three from Butler, Mo. “I would spend all day and night at the hospital and drive home and spend the next day and evening at home. I repeated this process for 58 days.” Figuring out some rhythm for managing this season creates the consistency that will be helpful to young children and give your life a sense of normalcy.
As hard as it is to imagine, your child will eventually leave the NICU and begin to grow and gain strength over time. Already having a busy household with older children who need your care adds another dimension of challenge. Keep in mind that, although it seems to drag on forever, this time will pass and become a distant memory. Try to take things one day at a time and do the best you can.
NICU parents may experience guilty feelings associated with how much time is spent with the baby (or with older children), whether the mother did something wrong to cause a premature birth, or not giving their child the “normal” attention that goes along with celebrating a new family member. Tese feelings are very real, but parents should try to give themselves grace in the situation. Your baby is in good hands with the NICU doctors and nurses, your child’s time spent in the NICU is temporary, and your children at home know you are doing your best. Walking through the experience of having a baby in the NICU is difcult, but soon enough you will be watching your child grow and thrive at home with the older siblings.
How to Help a NICU Family
Friends and family are usually willing to help a family while they face the challenge of having a baby in the NICU, but many are unsure how to lend a hand. Here are some ways to make this difcult time easier for a NICU family, especially one with other kids in the home.
Provide meals—Preparing a meal, having pizza delivered, stocking the freezer with quick-fx meals, mailing a gif card or dropping of groceries will lighten the load and give the family less to worry about.
Do yard work—A great way to help out a NICU family is to mow the lawn, shovel snow, water plants or manage the garden.
Help with the other kids (or pets) Ofer to babysit older children while the parents are at the hospital. You can also help by carpooling to school and activities, taking the kids to the park or driving the siblings to and from the hospital if visitors are allowed. If the family has pets, ofer to help out with pet care.
Listen—Ask how they are feeling and how the baby is doing and just listen. Having a friend to talk to can really help.
Encourage—Let them know you think they are doing great. Parents have a tendency to blame themselves or feel like they are letting their children down. Encouraging words can give them a big boost.
Check in—Send a text or a card and let them know you are there for them.
Sarah Lyons is an Olathe mom of six children, including 7-year-old triplets.
As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns.
SOURCES:
Trends in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit
Utilization in a Large Integrated Health Care System – PubMed (NIH.gov)
“As hard as it is to imagine, your child will eventually leave the NICU and begin to grow and gain strength over time.”
— Sarah Lyons
Babies are naturally drawn to water, and parents can capitalize on their little one’s interest through swim lessons. Swim lessons can teach babies valuable skills they’ll use both in and out of the water, including mood regulation, advanced motor skills, and improved cognitive function. Swim lessons also tout a sweet fringe beneft: bonding between parent and child. Time in the water together is free from distraction. Phones take their rightful place, silenced and put away, while babies get skin-to-skin contact, eye contact, and delightful playtime with Mom or Dad!
groundwork for giving tots confdence in the water. Over time, classes can shif focus to early skills such as tummy time, back foating, or going underwater. Parents are ofen surprised at how instinctively babies will hold their breath underwater. Fear of water is ofen a learned response and can be thwarted through early lessons.
Te American Academy of Pediatrics recommends children begin swim lessons as early as age one to protect against drowning. However, parent and baby swim lessons can begin earlier if you keep a few factors in mind.
First, seek lessons in a heated pool (or if utilizing an outdoor pool, make sure the water temperature is between 97–94 degrees), as babies can’t regulate their body temperatures well. Second, fnd a program that maintains good water purity. Harsh pool chemicals can compromise a baby’s delicate immune system, and little ones are at an increased risk of breathing or swallowing water. Health care professionals recommend waiting until 3–6 months to begin pool time.
BENEFITS of Swim Lessons for Babies
Afer which point, time is of the essence. Whereas children tend to become more fearful of swimming the older they get, babies are more willing to be in the water and can easily master life-saving skills such as foating on their backs.
Rather than teaching baby how to swim, these frst swim lessons are more about training parents in water safety while providing babies ample time to gain exposure to water. Singing songs while splashing and playing lays important
Beginning swim lessons early is about laying a foundation that can be built upon over time. But for many parents—particularly those who live on waterfront property or own a pool—water safety is a skill that must be taught as soon as possible. For this reason, parents may seek out alternative lessons, such as Infant Swimming Resources' self-rescue program. Directed toward children ages 6 months to 6 years, ISR teaches students how to hold their breath, foat on their back, and maintain that position until help arrives. Unlike traditional swim lessons for babies, ISR lessons are coached one-on-one while parents sit nearby. Classes are held daily and the program takes roughly six weeks to complete.
While survival techniques are key, all these methods teach foundational swimming skills that transform water from something terrifying to something terrifc.
Lauren Greenlee is an Olathe boymom and freelance writer.
readingrecess
Enjoy these charming board books as you celebrate holidays and milestones and snuggle up with the little one(s) you love to read to.
My Feet Go
By Ammi-Joan Paquette; illustrated by Sabrena Khadija. Best for ages 1–3.
Te second book in a series that showcase the body’s amazing abilities—from the physical to the meaningful. Provide young readers with an understanding and appreciation of what their feet can do while inviting them to look beyond what’s known or obvious about their capabilities.
I Like Your Chutzpah
By Suzy Ultman; illustrated by Suzy Ultman. Best for ages 1–3.
Tis modern and whimsical Jewish-themed board book series is the frst of its kind in incorporating both Jewish traditions and Jewish culture, ofering a unique depiction of Judaism. I Like Your Chutzpah showcases and defnes popular Yiddish words through a playful lens.
ABCs of the Bible
By Pia Imperial; illustrated by Isabel Foo. Best for ages 0–3.
Complete with short Bible verses, this fun and original alphabet board book makes for the perfect baby step in a little one’s journey. Featuring key biblical fgures, concepts and locations, this board book ofers an A-to-Z introduction to the Bible.
The Christmas Star
By Beatrix Potter; illustrated by Beatrix Potter. Best for ages 1–3.
Celebrate the holidays with Peter Rabbit in this sturdy board book! Peter Rabbit and his sisters are getting ready to celebrate Christmas! Tis board book captures the charming nature of Beatrix Potter's stories with beautiful illustrations and a tale that fans new and old will enjoy.
Snowmen’s Twelve Nights of Christmas
By Caralyn Buehner; illustrated by Mark Buehner. Best for ages 1–3.
Te Twelve Days of Christmas has never been funnier or more chaotic as an energetic dog chases creatures up a tree. With a pitch-perfect and jaunty rhyme and illustrations chock-full of fun details, this is a classic Christmas carol told with a hilarious twist.
Compiled by Lauri Clapper
Baby Name 411
Choosing the perfect name for your little one can be overwhelming. Afer all, you’re giving your posterity a moniker for life! How do you go about fnding the one? Here are some considerations that might help direct your search.
WHAT’S IN A NAME?
Historically, the name game was a lot smaller for parents in generations past. Laura Wattenburg, author of the Baby Name Wizard and creator of Namerology.com, has researched millions of names and the impact they have on culture, noting that the naming process has vastly shifed over the last ffy years.
“Over the past two generations, there's been a revolution in the way American parents name their children,” Wattenburg notes. “It used to be about ftting in, so most parents would choose a name from a fairly limited set of typical baby names. Tat was what was realistic. Tat was what was expected. Today, the culture is more about standing out instead of ftting in, and the options are limitless. Everyone is pushing to be unique, to be creative. And this is creating
an enormous amount of pressure and a kind of decision paralysis for today's parents.” What are common names these days? Even that is open to interpretation. For instance, John and Mary, the most popular names of the last 500 years, aren’t even in the top 100 now. And this year’s top choices aren’t even a fraction as popular as top contenders in the last half-century. Knowing there’s no such thing as “too common” a name can take some pressure of of parents.
ASSESS YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH YOUR OWN NAME
Sherri Suzanne, a New York professional baby name consultant of over twenty years, encourages her clients to frst evaluate their relationships with their own names. Did you like your name growing up? As an adult? Perhaps you have a unique spelling you’re forever having to correct; maybe you loathed being lost in a classroom with four other kids of the same name; perhaps you loved that your name had a positive meaning to live up to. Your feelings can help you determine the experience you want your child to have with their own name.
LIMIT THE FIELD
When there are so many options on the table, it can be helpful to use guardrails such as these to narrow down the hunt:
Family Namesakes: (Grandparents’ names, mother’s maiden name, Jr./Sr./ III, etc.). Naming a child afer a family member doesn’t always mean giving them the full name (or even the frst name!) of a revered relative. You can also honor relations with a nickname; or a name with the same meaning, frst syllable, or initials. For example, Olathe mom Mallory Beem honored both her mom Norina and her mother-in-law Chris while giving her frstborn a name all her own: Nora Christine.
Initials: Do they spell a pleasant word or make an unfortunate combination? For instance, Nova Rae Drummond sounds lovely. But initials that phonetically spell “nerd”? Eh, not so much.
Cultural Heritage/Ethnic Names: Names that represent where you come from, a culture you married into, or the place you now call home.
Spiritual Heritage: Names of virtues, saints, or characters of faith.
Director, producer and actor Ron Howard named all four of his children afer the places they were conceived (Bryce Dallas afer Dallas, TX; twins Paige Carlyle and Jocelyn Carlyle afer the Hotel Carlyle in New York City; Reed Cross afer a specifc road).
Pop Culture: Actors, athletes, musicians, or characters from favorite books, movies or TV shows.
Spelling: Is it important that your child be able to fnd personalized souvenirs at gif shops, or do you prefer an alternate spelling that’s all their own?
Sibling Names: How do your children’s names look/sound side-by-side? Do you want names that come from the same era? Start with the same letter? Have the same number of letters? Or do you prefer they have no connection whatsoever?
Nicknames: Even if you plan on calling your child by his given name, others may default to calling your child a nickname—or your child may insist on being called by one as he gets older. So make sure you like the variations that could take center stage, as well as how they sound with your last name. Name Meanings: Names with pleasant and strong meanings can bolster confdence. But not all names are created equal. Consult a baby name book or website before bequeathing your child a title that means badger or crooked nose (look it up— it’s a thing)!
FINDING COMMON GROUND
Coming up with a short list of names for your little one might have come easy. But fnding one you and your partner agree on? Well, therein lies the rub! Compromise will be a given. Some couples manage this in creative ways: for instance, Mom may get to name the frstborn, Dad the secondborn. Others divide and conquer by having
one parent choose the frst name and the other the middle name. But compromise can take an alternative approach as well. Suzanne says that one of the biggest reasons parents come to her is because they need a mediator when they can’t agree on a name. She encourages parents to look for the sweet spot.
“Let's say a parent is interested in an unusual name,” Suzanne says. “ Tis is very common. Someone might want an unusual name; the other might want a very traditional name. And the answer in that case might be a traditional name that's not used very ofen. So there's a sweet spot somewhere in the middle.”
FINAL THOUGHTS
Who gets a say in your child’s name? Wattenberg says while Mom and Dad get ultimate say, it’s important to think beyond. “ Tere's an assumption today that a baby name is a parent's free choice, but that doesn't mean that only the parents' opinion
matters. We still live in a society. We still live in a community. And the opinions of others in the community are going to be what matters to your children.”
Not everyone’s opinion matters, but if a name conjures delight or disdain in a close family member or friend, it may color the way you see it, too. Consult with your tribe—the people whose opinions matter most to you—but close the door to input beyond that.
If you’re unsettled on which name to go with, consider keeping it under wraps until baby is here. You have a full nine months to process and make a name come to life. And if you have a handful of names you love? You may wish to take them to the hospital and try them on for size once you look into your little one’s eyes.
Lauren Greenlee has loved names since she was a little girl and has a fascination with their meanings. She raises her well-named crew and writes in Olathe, KS.
At Liberty Hospital Birthing Center, we know when women and babies are healthy, everyone benefts. From our free childbirth and parenting classes to our team of obstetrics and pediatric specialists, lactation experts and more, we’re here to support you through pregnancy, birth and early parenthood.
Our warm and welcoming facilities are equipped with state-of-the-art technology, comfortable amenities and a neonatal NICU – all to ensure we are ready to meet your needs around the clock.
For a birthing center that combines high-quality expertise with a premier experience for you and your family, choose Liberty Hospital.
Start ’em young! No, really! It’s never too early for kids to start helping with housework. Children as young as one year old can start taking on small chores to help around the house. Not only will this lighten your load a bit, but there are many developmental benefts to letting your toddler help around the house.
Why Should Your Toddler Have Chores?
Assigning chores to your toddlers helps them complete tasks on their own, which fosters independence and boosts their self-esteem. It gives them a sense of responsibility at a young age and teaches them important life skills like accountability, problem solving, organization and time management. Chores also develop their fne motor skills and model teamwork within the family. Your children will learn that they contribute to the entire household and play an integral part in keeping it running.
What Are Some Age-appropriate Chores?
A few chore ideas for toddlers ages 2–5 are putting away their toys afer playing, feeding pets, putting trash in the trash can, dusting, setting the table and taking their plate to the sink afer meals.
TIPS FOR INTRODUCING CHORES TO YOUR TODDLER
Make It Fun
In our house, we have Alexa play the “Cleanup Song” when it’s time to pick up toys afer playing. It has become an automatic response to start cleaning. When she’s done playing, my daughter will even ask Alexa to start the song. If our toddler is not cooperating with a song, we like to challenge her to see how many toys she can pick up. Asking, “Do you think you can pick up ten toys?” becomes a fun game for her and helps her practice her counting. She ofen follows up by letting me know she can pick up even more toys, which is a major parent win.
Let Them Lead
If your children show an interest in certain chores, follow their lead. My daughter got into our dog’s bag of food one day, saying she was feeding him. We decided we could teach her how to feed the dog properly since she showed an interest. It is now a daily chore that she loves to do. She also always asks to set the table before dinnertime. Tis is especially helpful because it keeps her occupied and happy while I fnish cooking. If she shows interest while I’m cleaning the house, I try to let her help me. Tis could be by giving her a small brush and dustpan to clean the foors, or a dust rag to help me dust.
Be Positive
Cleaning doesn’t have to be a negative thing. When speaking to your kids about cleaning, be enthusiastic and positive. Instead of saying things like, “You have to clean up this mess you made,” or, “You can’t have dessert until you clean up your mess,” you
could say, “Let’s see how clean we can make the toy room,” or, “Let’s dust this shelf and see if we can make it shiny again!” A simple fip in perspective keeps the chore from becoming an argument and leads to healthy habits in the future. Keep up the positive attitude afer your child completes a chore. It’s important to give them positive feedback to help reinforce their good behavior. And hopefully, they will learn to love helping out around the house.
Don’t Expect Perfection
Remember your child is a toddler and still learning, so it’s important to have realistic expectations. As toddlers grow older and perfect their chores, they can take on new responsibilities.
Regan Lyons is a girl mom and freelance writer. She lives with her husband, Cale, and daughters, Atley, 10, and Ensley, 4, in St. Joseph.
engagingyour toddler in helping around the house
Ever notice when you are in the hospital, the nurses always bring you a big cup of water and tell you to drink the whole thing throughout the day? Tat is because H20 is hydrating, refreshing and helps your body work.
Drinking water during pregnancy helps prevent hemorrhoids and other common pregnancy symptoms. It also helps ship the prenatal vitamins and healthy foods you eat straight to your fetus!
Tat’s right, it all starts with water. Tis simple liquid helps your cells absorb essential nutrients and transports vitamins, minerals and hormones to the blood cells. Tose nutrient-rich blood cells absorb into the placenta and ultimately your baby. Water makes up approximately 60 percent of our bodies and helps not only with nutrient absorption and delivery, but with waste removal, digestion and body temperature regulation.
So how much should you drink every day? Since you need more water to keep your system running for two, the amount varies based on your body type and size, how active you are and other factors. A general rule of thumb is somewhere
between eight and twelve 8-ounce glasses of water, or even fuid from other sources, each day. Be sure to talk to your doctor about what works for you and your baby.
You’ll feel better when you space out your sips and keep them coming steadily throughout the day. Try not to gulp down a glass all at once, or you may feel uncomfortably full. You can take the hassle out of hydration by flling a water bottle in the morning and keeping it handy all day.
Be sure to sip before, during and afer you exercise, or if you fnd yourself outside on a hot day. Remember that if you feel thirsty, it's a sign that your body is already on its way to dehydration.
Tere are other delicious ways to stay hydrated. Tink about a nice slice of icecold watermelon, which contains about 93 percent water. In fact, a glass of water tastes great and is even more refreshing with a couple cubes of watermelon in it! Watermelon is packed with electrolytes and potassium, which help replenish the body’s hydration levels and can aid in muscle recovery afer exercise. It is also rich in vitamins A and C, magnesium and lycopene.
Staying Hydrated During Pregnancy
It’s good for you and your baby
Also, crunchy cucumber slices contain 96 percent water content and make great dippers for ranch dressing, hummus, guacamole or just chilled by themselves. Tey are also a good source of vitamin K and potassium.
Leafy greens like lettuce, spinach, arugula and kale are packed with water, fber, vitamin C and iron, all of which are essential for energy levels and overall hydration. Make it simple and add a lettuce leaf to your sandwiches and wraps and pour oil and vinegar over them for a crunchy, satisfying snack.
Your baby benefts from everything you put in your mouth and will thrive with plenty of liquids and healthy foods. Keep your little one foating happily until she appears!
An avid outdoors girl, Judy Goppert lives in Lee’s Summit. She enjoys drawing on her personal experiences to write about the nuances of everything wonderful about life.
As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns.
If your newborn is having a screaming ft, her little face will turn red, and she will feel hot. Calm her by removing some clothing and rubbing her little feet, hands and tummy. Ten, as she cools down, swaddle her again.
Babies’ bodies adjust to temperature diferently than ours. Once, when my son was a young infant, we were sitting outside in the sun, and I had him in just a diaper. He started shivering when the wind started blowing, and I felt awful! He was fne afer I wrapped him in his blanket, but I learned that even though I may be hot, he still needs his protective cover.
Before you overpack your diaper bag, remember to simply carry layers you can add or remove. Light colors keep your baby cooler than dark, and if his neck feels sweaty, you can always remove a layer. And when temperatures begin to dip, remember your baby should wear one layer more than you.
Because their bodies can’t regulate internal temperatures as well as adults’, little ones can be particular about outside temperatures. Te American Academy of Pediatrics reminds parents that due to their unique physiology, children are more sensitive to temperatures and their health efects.
Tat is why there are some extreme conditions when it is simply not safe for your baby to spend time outside. Extreme heat may induce dehydration, fatigue and headaches in your baby. When it is freezing outside, hypothermia is a bigger threat for young children than it is for adults.
However, on more temperate days, you can simply layer your baby to keep her comfortable and easily add or remove layers as needed. Use thin cotton clothing as the base layer
because it is breathable. When it’s cold, add sweaters and a coat as an outer layer. If you are going outside, your baby will need more protection. Snowsuits are great!
If it is snowy or rainy outside, go for a waterproof outer layer. Otherwise, cotton or wool outer layers keep your sweetie warm and cozy all day. Mittens, a hat and little booties help keep your baby covered from head to toe. Pack an extra layer in your diaper bag in case temps drop. In very cold temperatures (below 35 degrees), it’s best to limit your baby’s time outdoors since they get cold faster than we do.
Te same goes for hot weather. Always keep your baby’s head covered with a sunhat and even sunglasses. And of course, don’t forget the sunscreen.
Remember to take of bulky layers before putting your baby in her car seat—a thick coat won’t allow you to tighten the seat’s straps all the way. Simply drape baby's coat or blanket over her so she’ll stay warm during the car ride. Always leave your baby’s face uncovered so she can breathe. Always remove wet clothes as they can drop a baby’s body temperature quickly. In general, your baby’s body temperature should be between 98 and 100 degrees.
Snuggle and enjoy every season with your little angel!
An avid outdoors girl, Judy Goppert lives in Lee’s Summit. She enjoys drawing on her personal experiences to write about the nuances of everything wonderful about life.
Sources: PureWow.com, Motherly.com, WikiHow.com
PRODUCT REVIEWS
By Elena Epstein, Director of the National Parenting Product Awards
OCEAN EASY-FOLD PLAY GYM
The washable, reversible play mat features highcontrast black-and-white graphics for early visual stimulation on one side, and a full-color ocean scene on the other to keep older babies engaged. Includes soft developmental toys to attach to the gym. Folds easily for storage or to take on the go. $114.99, ages birth–9 months, MelissaAndDoug.com
BIBS BABY GLASS BOTTLE
Made of borosilicate glass, which is temperature- and thermal shock-resistant and durable. Features a natural rubber nipple, a material that mimics the soft feel of a mother’s nipple. $16.95, ages birth–2 years, US.BIBSWorld.com
RISE MOM & BABY BOX
Each box includes items for both mom and baby to celebrate the parenthood ourney. For mamas fnd recovery and self-care items, along with resources created by perinatal and childhood therapists. For babies, receive developmental toys and books. $120, ages 0–24 months, Bloom-And-Rise.com
BEBEE V2 LIGHTWEIGHT STROLLER
Features a compact, trunkfriendly fold and can be stowed in some overhead compartments. Crafted with eco-conscious materials, it’s the perfect blend of comfort, convenience and sustainability. $199.99, ages 6 months–50 pounds or use from birth with the car seat adapter accessory (sold separately), BombiGear.com
C'EST SILICONE! MEALTIME SET
Features a suction plate, bowl and spoon made from 100% FDA foodgrade silicone. The strong suction and easy-scoop walls ensure mess-free mealtimes, while the gentle material is safe for gums. Microwave and dishwasher safe. $19.99, ages 4 months+, Munchkin.com
SMARTCHECK FROM CHILDREN’S TYLENOL
An easy-to-use otoscope device that attaches to most smartphones and allows caregivers to remotely check for a potential ear infection. Provides parents and caregivers with 24/7 access to expert care when a child is experiencing ear infection symptoms—and right in the comfort of their own homes.
$79.99, ages 6 months+, Tylenol.com
TINY COLLECTION— CHARLOTTE THE DOG
Handcrafted with exquisite details, Charlotte comes nestled in a tiny home adorned in breathtakingly hand-painted watercolor wild owers. A precious antiqued bronze doorknob opens to reveal a magical night scene full of twinkling foil stars, where your little one can put her tiny doll to sleep after a day of play. Artisan made, fair trade and provides 10 meals to children in need. $44, ages 3+, CuddleAndKind.com
OOLIE’S ORGANIC NEWBORN TRIO & GIFT BAG
Includes hat, kimono-style bodysuit and blanket in a convertible gift bag—all made with 100% GOTScertifed organic cotton. Features no internal labels to ease discomfort to baby’s delicate skin. $56, ages birth–3 months, Oolie.com
NAPPA Awards has been celebrating the best in family products for 34 years. For more product reviews and gift ideas, visit NAPPAAwards.com.
Dad to Dad. Dude to Dude.
Dads are a special breed. They inherently know how things work, what years WWI and WWII spanned, and they never, ever fail to have a screwdriver within arm’s reach. But they weren’t always that way. There’s nothing better than an experienced dad taking a younger father under his wing to show him the ropes (and how to tie that rope). Here are a few words of advice from a dad who’s seen it all to the dad who still has a thing or two to learn.
WHAT YOU MIGHT THINK: Real dads grill—they don’t clean baby bottles
THE TRUTH: Real dads adjust what they’ve been told real dads are
You might be an expert at running the Blackstone Core Carnivore 3000, but that doesn’t exclude you from getting your tush over to the sink and cleaning up. You might bench press 300 pounds, but that also means you can lift hundreds of toys back into their rightful place. Being a dad is a privilege. Take responsibility for every aspect of it, regardless of what you were taught a dad “does.” Will you mess up? Sure. But you tried—and that will definitely earn you the “Best Dad Ever” mug you didn’t even know you wanted.
WHAT YOU MIGHT THINK: Dads don’t go to the doctor
THE TRUTH: You’re responsible for creating the healthiest you
Listen here: dads get sick. They get torn rotator cuffs, the flu and even cancer. What they often don’t do is enact preventative measures to mitigate those risks. No one is going to make yearly checkup appointments for you. You must advocate for yourself. Take vitamins. Wear sunscreen. Get yearly health screenings. It goes without saying that no one wants to turn his head and cough, but it’s time to get over that. Women don’t like getting mammograms either, but they’re woman enough to sign up. Time to man up and take care of yourself, too.
WHAT YOU MIGHT THINK: I liked it, so will my kids
THE TRUTH: Let their passion take the wheel
We see ourselves in our children, but that doesn’t mean our children will see us in themselves. It’s important to recognize early on that kids are unique in every way. They may share our obsession with football or they may not. They may find that woodworking lights up their world, or that playing an instrument makes them feel at home. Resist the urge to force an activity onto your child just because it’s
your personal favorite. Let the kids lead the way. Once they find their true passion, they’ll want to share it with you.
WHAT YOU MIGHT THINK: I know what I know and you should know it too
THE TRUTH: You don’t know everything
Dads love nothing more than giving advice—sometimes when it isn’t asked for. There will always be a temptation to tell your child your opinion, or how you think a problem should be solved. While it’s admirable to suggest solutions from your own experience, it’s also crucial that your kids learn a thing or two solo. Of course, you’ll be there waiting if they get stuck, but give them the chance to figure things out their own way first. You can say “I told you so” later.
What you might think: School/doctor/ day care stuff is for mom to deal with
THE TRUTH: No, it’s not
Welcome to 2024, friend. We live in a wonderful world of technology. You have access to the school calendar and the autonomy to log important dates in the family calendar! Book the six-month checkup and vaccines all on your own! Get new school supplies from your favorite store! Sign up for the PTA or volunteer at field day. You can absolutely take control of things that were once designated only for moms—and you’ll be a better dad for it.
WHAT YOU MIGHT THINK: I can stop the heartbreak before it happens
THE TRUTH: You’re most qualified to help heal the heartbreak
It’s a hard lesson to learn, but as a dad, you will see your children suffer emotional and physical hardships. Whether it’s a broken arm at day care or a shattered heart after prom, sorrow is unavoidable. Your fatherly instincts might have you try and bypass the valleys to keep the peaks peaking, but it’s a waste of energy. Instead, put on your softest shirt to help wipe the tears away. Practice your best dad jokes for when a laugh is
really needed. Use your big voice to shower your kids with love. You can’t prevent the bad, but you can certainly overshadow it with good.
WHAT YOU MIGHT THINK: I’m going to mess this up
THE TRUTH: You will—and you’re supposed to
You are the rock, the provider, the clown, the fixer and the soft landing after a hard day. But you’re also a human, and you will mess up at times. Give yourself a break. Walk away and gather your thoughts. Learn from your mistakes. Dads are allowed to learn, become better and pass their earned knowledge on to the next generation. It’s a privilege to be a father—stop worrying about what you’ll get wrong and celebrate what you will definitely get right. Being a dad is a job. Your job. And you’re great at it.
5 WAYS TO ACE THE DAD THING
1. Buy baby pajamas with zippers, not snaps. You’ll look elegant and graceful and be the envy of the neighborhood.
2. Program the coffee pot to go off every morning. Your day will start off so much better.
3. Buy the pre-cut fruit.
4. Whatever your child’s favorite toy is—buy two.
5. Kiss your child’s forehead every morning and you’ll know if they’re getting sick.
Kim Antisdel is a freelance writer and interior design sales rep for KC. She lives in Liberty with her husband, stepdaughters and son.
kc pumpkin spotlight
Carolyn’s Pumpkin Patch
Looking for a fabulous fall adventure? Carolyn’s Pumpkin Patch is a must-visit fall destination! Enjoy dozens of attractions, including the historic country carousel, Little Bud’s Railroad, the petting barn, the Pumpkinator pumpkin cannon, the Mega Slide and so much more! Enjoy a wagon ride into our u-pick pumpkin field, and savor refreshments including wine slushies, fresh kettle corn and our famous pumpkin donuts! Live entertainment as well as Uncle Lester’s Pig Races add to the fun during weekends! Carolyn’s is open five days a week, Thursday through Monday, Sept. 21–Oct. 31. Save when you purchase tickets online in advance. CarolynsPumpkinPatch.com
Johnson Farms
Johnson Farms is a real farm in the country, yet close to your home. Ride a wagon out to the u-pick pumpkin patch or apple orchard. The u-pick veggie patch and u-cut sunflower and zinnia field are nearby. Experience our giant jumping pillows, giant tunnel maze, authentic fire truck, barnyard arcade and animal corral. Pay one admission to enjoy the farm; pay extra for anything you harvest, snack on or seasonal items in our retail store. Discount pricing available online. JohnsonFarms.net
Louisburg Cider Mill
Watch as fresh cider is pressed in our 120-year-old barn and enjoy the delicious cider donuts! Live music every weekend, with extended hours every Friday and Saturday. Explore our 10-acre corn maze; hunt for the perfect pumpkin; enjoy a wagon ride, farm animals, children’s play area and jump pillow; and slide down Sunflower Hill. A trip is not complete without visiting the Country Store and the Lost Trail Soda trailer! Check for amenities and special events online. LouisburgCiderMill.com
7 TIPS
FOR A VISIT TO THE PUMPKIN PATCH
Local pumpkin patches are open for the season mid-September through Halloween.
1. Dress for the weather. Remember sunscreen, bug spray and appropriate layers. Later in the season, it may be chilly early or late in the day but may warm up as the sun shines in the afternoon.
2. Wear comfy shoes for playing on a farm. Tennis shoes, rubber boots or farm boots work well.
3. Plan to spend a half to a full day. Weekdays are less crowded and more relaxed, making this the ideal time to visit with young children. Weekends are bustling and can be an extra special time to visit with friends and relatives. Bring grandparents along for the fun!
4. Check the patch’s calendar of activities featured in our Pumpkin Patch Guide for special events they may be hosting throughout the season, including live entertainment, special festivals or holiday-themed events for Grandparents’ Day, teacher appreciation, Halloween and more.
5. Buy some goodies to enjoy at home! Cider donuts, pumpkin donuts and kettle corn are all great snacks to enjoy with a relaxing movie after a day at the patch.
6. Decide in advance whether you want to choose one big pumpkin for the family or a small one for each child. Having a plan can save a lot of stress when everyone is drawn to their choice of a perfect pumpkin.
7. Take lots of pumpkin photos!
AUTUMN
MUST-SEE CLASSICS
Celebrate the season with your little one with your favorite fall traditions at these local attractions.
AUTUMN APPLES
A favorite autumn day trip to the Louisburg Cider Mill.
The classic red cider mill barn is a perfect backdrop for fall photos, and the entire outing is a memorable fall tradition. The delicious aroma of freshly made cider greets you from your first step onto the property. Visitors can watch fresh cider being made from scratch daily—you’ll see the apples being washed, pressed, and processed, and finally bottled and made available for purchase. Inside the gift shop, visitors can see fresh apple cider donuts being made—be sure to enjoy a warm one before you leave! The mill is also home to one of our favorite pumpkin patches and play areas for little ones. Use our KC Pumpkin Patch Guide for the full scoop!
TIP: Visit nearby Cedar Cove Feline Sanctuary (also in Louisburg) to see big cats!
Historic Weston Orchard & Vineyard is one of the region’s most beautiful places to enjoy apple picking. A hayride carries visitors to the orchard and pumpkin patch. The orchard features 7,000 trees on 15 acres with 12 varieties of apples, including Gala, Jonathan, Honeycrisp, Fuji, Jonagold, Red Delicious, Golden Delicious, Empire, Evercrisp, Pink Lady, Granny Smith and Rome Beauty. The dwarf trees make picking easy for all ages. In addition to apple picking, families enjoy play areas, apple cannons, fun photo ops and delicious goodies!
TIP: Many great places to pick apples are within an hour’s drive of Kansas City. Schweizer Orchards in St. Joseph is the largest orchard and one of the prettiest, but there are many others as well. Discover them all in our KC Apple Picking Guide on KCParent.com
PUMPKIN TIME
The best pumpkin patches are fall amusement parks offering fun-filled attractions for the entire family! With activities like pumpkin cannons, pony rides, pumpkinchomping dinosaurs, creative play areas, jumping pillows, corn cribs, train rides, corn mazes, zip lines, forts, petting zoos, tipis, inflatables and, of course, hayrides to pick the perfect pumpkin, a visit to the local pumpkin patch is a fall bucket list must!
Carolyn’s Pumpkin Patch in Liberty is one of the region’s largest patches and offers a wide variety of play areas and live entertainment, including an inflatable jack-o’-lantern bouncer where kids can enjoy jumping and playing.
Johnson Farms Plants and Pumpkins in Belton is one of our favorite local pumpkin patches. They offer many terrific play areas for little ones, along with a petting zoo and u-pick vegetable patch. In addition to their familyfriendly fall attractions, they have a beautiful sunflower field with a variety of colors!
TIP: To choose the perfect patch, visit KCParent.com and use our KC Pumpkin Patch Guide! You’ll also find KC coupons there to save during your visits.
SILLY SPOOKY FUN
Every October the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium is decked out in fun and spooky (but not too spooky) decorations. Hoots and Howls at the Zoo (held on weekends in October) is a favorite event with fun activities and entertainment, including hayrides, pedal tractors, a hay bale maze, and costumed characters. You even can watch the animals participate in the fun by smashing pumpkins! On the last Saturday in October, attend Boo at the Zoo, which offers pedal tractor rides, spooky crafts, hayrides and more. Little ones can trick-or-treat at stations located throughout the zoo. Also this fall, plan to visit the GloWild Legends & Lore outdoor lantern festival in the evening.
TIP: You may bring your own picnic to enjoy at the zoo. For smaller crowds, visit midweek while school is in session.
Wonderscope Children’s Museum is introducing a brand-new Halloween event this year that’s specially designed for families with young children. On Oct. 26 they’ll host Monster Bash, complete with costumed characters, creative sensory activities with a silly (not spooky) monster theme, themed art projects, demonstrations, and yummy food and drinks. Plus, young children will have a safe, educational, and memorable environment to trick-or-treat during the daytime. Family packs for the event include six tickets, so you may bring the entire family to the celebration!
TIP: Check out Wonderscope’s weekly calendar for special events all year long, including sensory-friendly play, story time, baby time and more!
NATURE HIKES
Colorful autumn leaves captivate young children. You’ll find many scenic trails to enjoy across the metro, from paved (perfect for strollers), to woodchip, to simple clearings in the woods. A terrific resource is the book Hiking Kansas City by William Eddy and Richard Ballentine. Eddy and Ballentine provide detailed descriptions of each trail, along with maps and photos. Some of our autumn favorites for great colors and family photos in every quadrant: South—Overland Park Arboretum; Central—Longview Lake Trails; West— Shawnee Mission Park; East—Burr Oak Woods Nature Center; and North—Parkville Nature Sanctuary
TIP: Don’t forget the classic autumn rituals of jumping in piles of leaves and making crayon rubbings to decorate the fridge!
FALL FLAVORS
S’mores cooked over a nice warm fire are an autumn delicacy loved by campers and neighbors. Hot marshmallows can be sticky (and dangerous if too hot) for little ones. However, your tots can still share a s’mores treat with you at a local restaurant. Our fall favorites include s’mores cheesecake at the Cheesecake Factory Among their parade of tasty cheesecakes, the Toasted Marshmallow S'mores Galore is a decadent treat. The Hershey's cheesecake topped with chocolate ganache, toasted house-made marshmallow and graham crackers is a first-rate dessert. And try a s’mores concrete at Sheridan’s Frozen Custard. This sweet spot serves the best frozen concretes in town, and the s’mores concrete is a top pick! Chocolate, marshmallows and graham crackers blended with your choice of vanilla or chocolate frozen custard make a perfect treat.
TIP: Sheridan’s at Crown Center is our favorite after a day playing at Kaleidoscope or visiting Union Station, Legoland or Sea Life
Autumn is Kristina Light’s favorite season for family fun! She can be found playing in the leaves with her girls, decorating pumpkins, enjoying cider donuts and celebrating at local festivals all season long!
DAILY
Story Time Visit MyMCPL.org or JoCoLibrary.org to fnd a complete list of story times.
Inspired Play Inspired Play Cafe. Attend a two-hour play session in this fun, educational and nurturing environment where little ones explore and caregivers may enjoy the calming cafe. InspiredPlayCafe.com
Indoor Play 9:00, Kanga’s Indoor Playcenter. Enjoy hours of running, climbing, jumping and sliding through incredible play spaces. Kids 3 and under can enjoy the dedicated toddler play area, while the bigger kids can explore the 7,200-squarefoot, multilevel playscape. Independence.KangasPlaycenter.com
Visit the Zoo 10:00, Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium. The zoo is open year-round. Pack a picnic and enjoy your favorite animals all year long. KansasCityZoo.org
MONDAY
RoKC Play Lounge 8:00, RoKC Olathe. Children 6 months to 6 years are invited to enjoy a two-hour session in the play lounge while parents participate in rock wall climbing. ClimbKC.com/Olathe
Mom or Dad & Me Bumper Bowling 9:30, Summit Lanes. For just $3 per person, you get a game, shoe rental and drink on Mondays and Wednesdays. SummitLanes.com
WEEKLY
playdates
Open Gym Mon.–Thu., 9:30–Noon, Kaw Prairie Community Church (Lenexa). Grab a coffee from the coffee shop and hang out with friends while your kiddos get their energy out on steamy days! KawPrairie.org/info
TUESDAY
Preschool Indoor Playground 9:30, Merriam Community Center. Drive, pull or push your favorite Little Tikes vehicles. Parents must supervise their children. $2/child. Punch cards available: $10 for 10 visits. Merriam.org
Visit Sea Life 10:00, Sea Life Aquarium. Bring the kids to see the Doodle Reef, the touch pool, Stingray Bay and more! Purchase tickets online at VisitSeaLife.com.
Pay for Play 10:00, Backyard Specialists. Plan a playdate for your children and their friends at our amazing outdoor showroom.
BackyardSpecialists.com/pay-for-play
Time for Tots 10:30, Kemper Museum. Sing songs, read books, explore art and make your own art with a Kemper Museum educator and Kansas City librarian. Facebook.com/ KemperMuseum/events
WEDNESDAY
Retro Story Time Second Wednesday of the month, 10:00–10:45, Johnson County Museum. Preschoolers love stories from long ago, read by a special guest from the 1950s All-Electric House! Craft activity included. Register at 913.831.3359.
Preschool Story Time First and third Wednesday of the month, 10:30–11:00, Ernie Miller Nature Center. For ages 2–6. $2/person, including adults. Visit the nature center for stories, songs and surprises geared to preschool children. Register at JCPRD.com.
THURSDAY
Jumperoo Toddler Time 9:00, Urban Air Lenexa. Jumpers 5 and under and their guardian are invited to jump, bounce and crawl around safely. UrbanAirLenexa.com
Pay for Play 10:00, Backyard Specialists. Plan a playdate for your children and their friends at our amazing outdoor showroom.
BackyardSpecialists.com/pay-for-play
Toddler Time 10:00-2:00, Ceramic Cafe. On Thursdays, toddlers 5 and under can paint a selected item. CeramicCafeKC.com
Visit Legoland 10:00, Legoland Discovery Center. Take the kids to the ultimate indoor playground for the biggest fans of Lego. Purchase tickets at LegolandDiscoveryCenter.com.
FRIDAY
Jumperoo Toddler Time 9:00, Urban Air Trampoline Park Overland Park. Children 5 and under and their parent/guardian can jump, bounce and crawl around safely. UrbanAirOP.com
Toddler Time First and third Friday of the month, 10:00, Blue Springs Fieldhouse. Children ages 6 months to 5 years can play inside with cars, scooters, slides, a play house, books, mats and more! BlueSpringsGov.com
SATURDAY
Jumperoo Toddler Time 8:00, Urban Air (Overland Park and Lenexa). Little ones 5 and under and their guardian are invited to jump, bounce and crawl around safely. UrbanAir.com
Little Acorns 10:00, Anita Gorman Discovery Center. Join volunteer naturalists for a fantastic journey through forests, streams and other magical places as they read select books. Register at 816.759.7300.
frst birthdays
tips and traditions to consider
the big ONE is a big deal! Your baby’s frst birthday is an important milestone that gives parents, grandparents and loved ones a chance to celebrate your baby’s frst year and all the growth and joy your baby has brought to your home.
Planning a party can be both fun and overwhelming for parents. How do you plan a party that works for everyone’s schedules and is enjoyable for everyone, especially the birthday boy or girl? Are there traditions you would like to incorporate into upcoming birthdays as your child and family grow? Here are some tips for parents as you plan a frst birthday bash.
Work around naptime
Babies are notorious for their strict napping schedules, and an overtired baby can quickly turn a joyous occasion into a meltdown. Schedule the party around your child’s naptime. A well-rested baby is more likely to be cheerful and engaged, making the celebration enjoyable for everyone.
Assign a designated photographer
Your baby’s frst birthday is a moment you’ll want to remember forever. Instead of worrying about capturing every moment, designate someone as the photographer for the day. Whether it’s a professional or a friend with a good eye, a designated photographer ensures the special moments will be captured while you focus on your child.
Pick a theme that works for you (or don’t)
Choosing a theme can add a fun and cohesive element to your party, but it’s not a necessity. If you enjoy planning and decorating, a theme like “Mr. Onederful” or “Berry First Birthday” can be fun. However, if the idea of a themed party feels overwhelming, a simple, no-theme celebration can be just as special. Focus on what makes you and your baby happy.
Set up activities your child will enjoy
At this age, keeping your baby entertained is key. Set up activities that your child will love, such as a ball pit, bubbles, or a sensory play area. Tese activities not only keep the birthday baby happy, but also engage any young guests.
Choose an outdoor venue if possible
If weather permits, an outdoor venue can be a great choice for a frst birthday party. Parks or backyards provide ample space for children to play and adults to mingle. Outdoor settings also reduce the stress of indoor messes and allow for simpler decorations and easier cleanup.
Highlight your child’s milestones and favorites
Creating a milestone poster is a heartfelt way to celebrate your baby’s frst year and share your child’s unique personality with guests. Include details like his frst word, favorite food, and beloved toys. Te poster not only serves as a cute decoration, but as a keepsake to look back on.
Messages for later
Invite your guests to write notes for your child to read when he or she older. Tis creates a time capsule of love and wellwishes from friends and family. Tese notes
will be a cherished gif for your child to read and refect on in years to come, making the celebration even more meaningful.
Pick a charity and have guests bring donations
Incorporating a charitable aspect into the party is a wonderful way to give back and teach your child about generosity from a young age. Choose a charity that’s meaningful to your family and ask guests to bring donations instead of gifs. Tis not only supports a good cause, but helps reduce the infux of toys that can quickly accumulate.
Smash cupcake
A frst birthday isn’t complete without a smash cake moment. However, instead of a full-sized cake, consider a smash cupcake. It’s the perfect size for your little one to dig into without creating an overwhelming mess. Plus, it’s an adorable photo opportunity that captures your baby’s joy and curiosity.
Use decorations you already have If you already have a theme for your baby’s nursery, consider extending it to the birthday party. Reusing decor items saves you time and money. It also creates a cohesive look to tie your baby’s frst year together. Whether your nursery theme is woodland, princess, or nautical, using existing decorations adds a personal touch to the celebration.
Your baby’s frst birthday is a joyous occasion that marks an important milestone. With these tips and tricks, you can create a memorable celebration that honors your child’s frst year and the joy he or she has brought to your life.
Sarah Lyons is an Olathe mom of six. On their birthdays, her kids wake up to a “balloon avalanche” on their bedroom door, choose a favorite meal, and eat of a special birthday plate.
parents night out
Kansas City Zoo presents GloWild: Legends & Lore Thru Dec. 29, KC Zoo & Aquarium. Filled with massive steel and silk works of art, GloWild features both adventure and fantasy. KansasCityZoo.org/GloWild
Halloween Haunt Select nights thru Oct. 31, Worlds of Fun. This Halloween event allows you to experience the thrills of your favorite rides and the chills of haunted attractions. WorldsOfFun.com
An Old-Fashioned Family Murder Thru Nov. 17, New Theatre. In 1942, a junior homicide detective stumbles upon the murder of a famed mystery writer. Trapped in a mansion with several suspects he fnds himself outmatched by the cunning of the killer. NewTheatre.com
Japan Fest Oct. 5, Midwest Trust Center. This festival showcases the traditional culture, pop culture, food and art of Japan, along with the vision, technology and hopes for the future shared by the people of Japan and the people of Kansas City. JCCC.edu/midwest-trust-center/events
Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar & Grill Oct. 8–27, KCRep. Step into the smoky allure of this Tony Award-winning play and go on a spellbinding journey through the life and music of the iconic Billie Holiday. KCRep.org
Lenexa Chili Challenge Oct. 11 and 12, Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park. Teams compete in chili, salsa and hot wings contests in hopes of taking home the Grand Champion prize. Teams host private parties on Friday night and give out samples on Saturday. Lenexa.com
Murder Mystery Dinner Theater: Murder on the Disoriented Express Oct. 18 and 19, 7:00, Holy-Field Winery. Enjoy interactive live murder mystery dinner theater that will leave you laughing. Arrive early to sample local wines. HolyFieldWinery.com
HYPROV: Improv Under Hypnosis Starring Colin Mochrie and Asad Mecci Nov. 3, 8:00, Midwest Trust Center. HYPROV (pronounced “hip-rawv”) comes to KC after a 70-show run off-Broadway in NYC, a six-month residency in Las Vegas and 100 cities toured! JCCC.edu/midwest-trust-center/events
A Christmas Carol Nov. 23–Dec. 28, KCRep Spencer Theatre. Join Ebenezer Scrooge on his redemptive journey with Christmas Past, Present, and Future, and rediscover the true meaning of the holidays. KCRep.org
Sar-Ko Aglow Dec. 6–Jan. 20, Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park. Kick off your holiday festivities by meeting up with friends and neighbors for this traditional holiday lighting celebration. Lenexa.com
Christmas with the Celts Dec. 7, Midwest Trust Center. This event is a wonderful combination of timeless Irish Christmas carols and lively Irish dance, along with contemporary songs with Irish instrumentation. JCCC.edu/midwest-trust-center/events
First Fridays in the Crossroads Starting at 5:00. Every month residents and visitors head to the cultural arts district for free peeks at galleries and studios, delicious treats from food trucks and local restaurants, and entertainment from street performers and buskers. KCCrossroads.org
Sar-Ko-Aglow at Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park
Experience the wonders of science through indoor and outdoor interactive exhibits, as well as hands-on, educator-led programs. Younger guests will practice their social and cognitive skills in the play area and learning lab. With new monthly themed programming, there is always something new to explore!
Endless Discovery & FUN
SCAN HERE FOR TICKETS Visit ScienceCity.com for full details
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• Level II NICU, for babies needing extra care
• Skilled neonatal doctors and nurses
Neonatal nurse practitioners provide on-site support 24/7. Part of The University of Kansas Health System
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