baby
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MATERNI T Y YE A R S
BY
KC B A
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G A Z I NE MA
1 5 & CE
2 00 2
maternity
JULY- SEPTEMBER 2017 | KCPARENT.COM
choose your doctor issue the
tips for
exercising
during pregnancy dealing with
postpartum pains
Kimberly Matthews, M.D., Ana Martinez, M.D., Leah Ridgway, M.D., Reagan Wittek, M.D., Evelina Swartzman, M.D., Amy Giedt, M.D.,
We are dedicated to providing the same level of outstanding care, we expect ourselves. As the areas leading all-female OB/GYN practice,
we pride ourselves on providing quality personal and professional care to our patients. We have two convenient locations in
the Kansas City area. For more information, visit www.WomensHealthKC.com. To schedule an appointment, call 913.677.3113.
Dentistry That Will Make Kids
Board Certified Pediatric Dentists
Now Welcoming New Patients!
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Smile • Prompt, friendly care • Professional dental cleanings • Fun, interactive environment • Specialized dentistry just for kids!
(913) 764-5600 Olathe (913) 387-3500 Overland Park (913) 745-2500 Shawnee (913) 378-9610 Prairie Village (913) 299-3300 Kansas City
Are You Ready to
Grow A Reader? As your baby’s first teacher, you can make the difference in the future of his or her academic success by singing songs, listening to music, most importantly reading books every day. Mid-Continent Public Library's new Grow A Reader program offers many free resources. Storytimes for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers, online resources including video storybooks, and, of course, countless books are available at each of our branches to help your child start building successful reading skills. Access Early Literacy
Our librarians are standing by to help! Visit growareader.org/KCBaby to learn more.
kcparent.com july-september 2017
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baby&
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choosing
your doctor issue
JULY-SEPT 2017 IN EVERY ISSUE 7
Craft Corner
Nesting Nuggets 24
PREGNANCY EXERCISE, PG. 24
Calendar of Events 31 Belly Laughs 34
YOUR BABY
YOUR TODDLER
14 Postpartum Pains
10 Transitions
12 Finding the Right Pediatrician
18 What’s Up, Doc?
20 Making Mom Friends
16 The Adoption Process
22 Homemade Baby Food
28 Water Play in KC
24 Exercising While Expecting
30 Double Diapering
31 Play Dates
YOUR PREGNANCY 8 Choosing Your OB
26 Birth Spacing 32 Date Night 34 Belly Laughs
Our cover features Sofie from Shawnee. Cover and select interior photos by KiaBondurant.com
baby
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MATERNI T Y YE A R S
BY
KC B A
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G A Z I NE MA
& 15 CE
2 00 2
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JULY- SEPTEMBER 2017 | KCPARENT.COM
choose your doctor issue the
ON THE COVER Choosing Your OB 8 Finding a Pediatrician 12 Postpartum Pains 14 Pregnancy Exercise 24
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tips for
exercising
during pregnancy dealing with
postpartum pains
The starting point for a healthy smile. Starting Point Dental offers both pediatric dentistry and orthodontics in one location. Our dental services are provided by specialists who received additional training after dental school. By offering these specialties together, we can give busy families convenience and comprehensive care. Locations:
Overland Park 14465 Metcalf Ave Overland Park KS 66223 913-553-2492
Legends 10940 Parallel Pkwy Kansas City KS 66109 913-948-8688
StartingPointDental.com Owner John P. Roth DDS and family Specialist in Pediatric Dentistry Specialist in Orthodontics
Should I consume my placenta? This question is on the rise with more and more pregnant women. So, why are so many women interested in consuming their placenta?
“ 96 percent of the women said they had a ‘positive’ or ‘very positive’ experience consuming their placenta, and 98 percent said they would do it again.” Dr. Daniel Benyshek and graduate student Sharon Young, UNLV in Las Vegas, NV
Placenta Encapsulation KC www.PlacentaKC.com
913.782.3174
Because science has shown that it can help with postpartum depression, lactation and energy. The placenta is loaded with vitamins, minerals and nutrients. The placenta contains high amounts of iron, B6 and B12, as well as estrogen and progesterone. These are all very important during the postpartum recovery. At Placenta Encapsulation KC we believe every mother and baby should have the best baby-moon as possible. That is where we come in; we will discreetly process your placenta into capsules for easy, non-tasting ingestion. We offer pickup and delivery services, we follow all the FDA guidelines, work with your birthplace, and we have a separate processing facility. Hundreds of women have encapsulated their placenta with us and have sworn that it has helped with their postpartum recovery. You only get one chance to do this and to have it done correctly. Contact us to find out more information and to book encapsulation with a trusted, certified Placenta Encapsulation Specialist. kcparent.com july-september 2017
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baby&
editor’sletter
maternity
P
eople often ask me what the most difficult part of being a magazine editor is. My answer is always the same: coming up with fresh, relevant articles, month after month and year after year. I’ve been doing this for 10 years and feel like I’ve covered every topic that’s out there, from pregnancy through the teen years. A few months back, I was reading a magazine with an article on the topic of birth spacing, and a light bulb went off. That’s a topic we haven’t covered! My girls are three years and three months apart, and for our family, that’s worked out perfectly. We didn’t really set out with any specific amount of time that we wanted in between each child; it just came about because we were ready to add to our family at that particular time. What about you? Some people have the mindset of getting through the baby stuff ASAP, so they space little ones closer together. Others want to space out their kids a little bit more. Growing up in my family, we had two years between the four oldest, then 13 years between me and my youngest sibling. My mom sent her oldest to college and her baby to kindergarten the same year. I asked if she was sad or happy. She was happy! Olathe mom Lauren Greenlee takes a look at birth spacing on pg. 26. This issue includes lots of great info for expectant parents. We know how many decisions you have to make before Baby arrives, and we’re here to help! Check out tips for choosing your OB/GYN on pg. 8 (I didn’t choose mine until after I found out I was pregnant—whoops!) and tips for choosing a doctor for Baby on pg. 12 (I did have a pediatrician chosen before my girls were born—go, me!). Happy summer, Kansas City!
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Margaret Sarver, Editor
Publisher Michael Gimotty Michael@KCParent.com Associate Publisher Darrell Dean Darrell@KCParent.com Editor Margaret Sarver Margaret@KCParent.com Art Director Kim Tappan Tappan Design Kim@KCParent.com Advertising Sales Darrell Dean Advertising@KCParent.com Electronic Media Manager Kristina Light Kristina@KCParent.com Copy Editor Susan Crainshaw Susan@KCParent.com Distribution To be added to our distribution list, e-mail Distribution@KCParent.com
LOCAL Local Contributing Writers CONTENT Kim Antisdel, Liberty Julie Collett, Overland Park Allison Gibeson, Lee’s Summit Lauren Greenlee, Olathe Jessica Heine, Olathe Christa Melnyk Hines, Olathe Karen Johnson, Olathe Megan Kapple, Kansas City Gina Klein, Kansas City Kristina Light, Kansas City Kerrie McLoughlin, Overland Park Business Office 11936 W. 119th #335 Overland Park, KS 66213 913.782.3238 phone • 913.681.5139 fax
Facebook.com/KansasCityParent Pinterest.com/KCParent @KCParent
Member of
KC Baby & Maternity is published four times per year: Winter (JanMarch), Spring (April-June), Summer (July-Sept) and Fall (Oct-Dec). It is distributed free of charge throughout the Kansas City area. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written permission. KC Baby & Maternity is not responsible for statements made by advertisers or writers. All photography and letters sent to KC Baby & Maternity will be treated unconditionally assigned for publication and copyright purposes and are subject to unrestricted right to edit and comment editorially. The views expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect the views of KC Baby & Maternity.
craftcorner
For an easy and inexpensive way to dress up your baby's nursery, make a pom-pom garland!
pom-pom garland
F
or an easy and inexpensive way to dress up your baby’s nursery, make a pom-pom garland! You can hang it over the changing table or along an empty wall to add some cheer to the space. These pom-pom garlands are so easy to make you easily could whip up one for your child’s first birthday party decor or even a friend’s baby shower! It’s so simple to customize the colors to suit your needs.
Materials Needed: • Yarn • Fork • Scissors Step One: Place one end of the yarn through the middle of the fork, leaving a 2-inch tail.
Step Two: Hold onto the tail with one hand and with the other hand, tightly wrap the yarn around the fork about 60 times.
Step Three: Cut another piece of yarn to about 4 inches. Carefully slip the looped yarn off the fork and tightly tie the 4 inch piece of yarn around the center of the loops.
Step Four: Cut through the loops to form a pom-pom. Trim the yarn until the pom-pom is an even sphere.
Step Five: Tie the pom-poms onto a long piece of yarn to create the garland.
Megan Kapple is a blogger from Kansas City, MO, where she lives with her husband and four children. She loves anything DIY and crafty and blogs about her adventures at HomemadeGinger.com.
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things every pregnant woman needs to consider when choosing an OB/GYN
S
he’s having a baby! No, I’m not talking about the 1980s movie with Kevin Bacon. I’m talking about you! And the time has come to choose an OB/GYN. You know, the man or woman who will be elbow deep in your lady bits catching the human you’ve created. It’s kind of a big deal. So how do you choose the right person? Here are a few tips.
1. Is it important to you that your OB/GYN be female? Some women don’t care and are more concerned with credentials, bedside manner, location, etc. I personally wanted a woman who physically understood the perils of
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pregnancy, labor and delivery to be with me every step of the way. It was a bit easier to bring up my fear of an episiotomy to a person who knew exactly why that concept was so terrifying.
hoping to birth your baby in a tub? Make sure to find an OB/GYN who supports you in your choices.
2. Are you more traditional? Or do you like to follow the latest birthing trend? I’m a medicine-science-nothingfunky kind of gal. Doctors. Nurses. Epidurals. Hospitals. That’s my list. So I chose an OB/GYN that fit with my personality and the type of delivery I was hoping for. Maybe you’re different. Have you hired a professional photographer to capture every moment? Would you like to have a doula there, or are you
was a talker, and it drove me crazy. I was so nervous and had a million questions, so hearing about her son’s science project was bothersome to me. My second OB/ GYN was a bit more blunt and got straight to the point, which I liked. Other women want someone soft and nurturing who will help ease their nerves. Hopefully, meeting with your OB/GYN for the first few appointments will help you determine whether he/she is the right fit.
3. What type of bedside manner do you hope for? My first OB/GYN
4. Most women go into this experience with a “birth plan.”
6. Do you have special circumstances? Are you hoping for a VBAC? Have you had a high-risk
While we know nothing in life is guaranteed, make sure to go over your plan with your OB/GYN to see whether you are on the same page. If you are 110 percent committed to a drug-free birth, ensure you’re choosing someone who understands that. Read up on OB/ GYNs in your area and ask around. Some doctors are more likely to suggest drug interventions and c-sections. Others will let a mother labor much longer. Ask questions. Do your research. Set yourself up for the best possible experience by aligning yourself with an OB/GYN with whom you are comfortable.
pregnancy? Have you had complications in labor and delivery before? If so, you absolutely should communicate this information to your OB/GYN and ensure that he/she is prepared to handle your situation. You might want a specialist or someone more experienced in high-risk births. Doctors are usually assigned to or have privileges only at certain hospitals. If you need a hospital with a NICU, ensure you choose an OB/GYN who can deliver there. Also, if you want a hospital within a certain distance of your house, work, etc., that could impact the doctor you choose.
5. Also, what are your beliefs on breastfeeding and circumcision?
7. Ask about the OB/GYN’s hours or on-call schedule. Many doctors
Some OB/GYNs are very relaxed and leave these choices completely up to Mom and Dad. Others are passionate and only support breastfeeding or are completely for or against circumcision. Know where you stand and find someone who aligns with your beliefs.
work in a group, so chances are your OB/ GYN may not be on call the night you deliver. This means you’ll have a different doctor than the one you’ve been working with all these months. Other OB/GYNs are committed to always delivering the babies of their own patients. Make sure
you know his/her availability before going forward so you are not faced with shock and disappointment when you are dilated to 10 cm and someone else walks in to tell you to push.
8. Finally, there’s that pesky thing called insurance. Check with your carrier before choosing an OB/GYN and hospital. That hospital bill is not something you’ll want to face on your own! Good luck, Mama. Don’t worry, you’ll find the right person to help you bring that new bundle of love into this world. Olathe mom Karen Johnson has three children, ages 8, 6 and 4. She writes at The21stCenturySAHM.com. As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns. Sources: BabyCenter.com/0_how-to-choose-anobstetrician_1582.bc BabyMed.com/12-steps/how-find-goodobgyn-12-steps
Quiz (True or False): • All OB/GYNs support formula feeding. FALSE • All OB/GYNs support VBACs. FALSE • OB/GYNs are only allowed to deliver at the hospital(s) where they have privileges. TRUE
• You could choose an OB/GYN who does not accept your insurance, so make sure to check first. TRUE
• All OB/GYNs are equally experienced in dealing with high-risk pregnancies. FALSE
• It’s a good idea to discuss your birth plan with your OB/GYN to see whether you are on the same page. TRUE
• Regardless of whom you choose, your OB/GYN will deliver your baby no matter what. FALSE
• Women should always choose a female OB/GYN. FALSE Will you deliver in a hospital? Or a birth center? Or at home? Learn about different delivery options at KCParent.com. kcparent.com kcparent.com july-september july-september2017 2017
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IN TRANSITION:
a guide to big baby changes
To be a parent to a baby or toddler is to be a pro at change. Rolling over, first words and laughing are the easy ones. The rest…not so much. Here’s how to handle the bigger transitions headed your way in the coming years.
Paci goes bye-bye
As with any transition, the age is up to you, but the American Academy of Family Physicians recommends limiting the use of a pacifier after 6 months of age. In the world of reality, many parents rely on it for sleep and occasional soothing until the age of 2 or 3. The most important word in axing the paci is consistency. Pacifiers have a habit of multiplying rather than disappearing, so discard every pacifier in your home except for one. Then, it’s time to begin the countdown. Here’s how: • Let your toddler know “Binky Bye-Bye Day” is coming in one week. Keep it short. “You’re a big girl, and big girls don’t need a paci anymore.” • During that week, limit binky use to naps and/ or overnights. If your child can survive during the waking hours, the sleeping part will be easier. • Ask daycare to put your child to nap without her binky. Children behave differently at daycare, so the desire to please her teacher might make her try harder. Then all you’re left with is nighttime! • When you pull the plug on binky bye-bye day, leave no trace of the pacifiers anywhere, not even for an “emergency.” Even if your child is having a five-alarm meltdown, do not back down. Giving in teaches your child there is a threshold at which she can get it back, and Mom and Dad are total suckers.
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no more parties at the crib
Perhaps Baby Number Two is on the way, or maybe your 2-year-old is starting to climb better than a chimpanzee. Either way, out with the crib and in with the toddler bed. Shopping for all things new bed can help smooth the transition. Let your child pick out “big kid” bedding and select his favorite stuffed animal to sleep with. Then triple check that the room is babyproofed. He’ll have a new ability to roam around after lights-out, so long cords should be snipped, outlets blocked and heavy objects anchored securely to the wall. Decide whether putting a baby gate over the door threshold is the right choice to cut back on attempted escapes throughout the night. Keep his bedtime routine exactly the same as it’s always been, then tuck him in, say good night and brace for impact. The first few nights might present tears and confusion—or a slap on your face at 2:00 in the morning with a request for water. As with anything difficult, hang tough and remain calm. Take your child back to his room without speaking, tuck him in and return to your bed. The more boring you are, the faster he will realize you mean business and it isn’t playtime. You may be in for a few sleepless nights as he settles in, but if you’re consistent, he’ll figure it out that much faster.
Baby transitions are no walk in the park, and they will require patience and consistency on your part. Be brave, be steadfast and, above all, be a loving support system to your child and you will make it through. As every wise grandparent in the history of the world has said, “This too shall pass.”
drop the bottle
KCPARENT.COM
It isn’t that the bottle is bad, but who wants to wash and sanitize all those parts and pieces? Plus, you finally can get that plastic grass bottle dryer thing off your countertop. Around the 6- to 7-month-old mark, give your babe a sippy cup in the bathtub so she can play with it and, eventually, take a drink. In the bath, the cup will seem more like a toy and not as threatening. After some time, offer the sippy during a meal, like lunch or breakfast. As time progresses and your baby gets used to the sippy, try using it for all meals and, finally, at nighttime. Don’t make a big deal out of it; reinforce that your child is a big kid and needs a big kid cup. Take the process in phases and, once she’s moved on, get rid of all bottles so you (and your baby) aren’t tempted to go back.
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THREE NO-NO’S FOR ANY TRANSITION:
• Questioning yourself. You know what is best for your child. If your gut tells you he isn’t ready for something, don’t force it.
• Leaving room for negotiation. Never tell your child about a change and add an “okay?” at the end. You aren’t asking permission; the change is happening. Be gentle and kind, but firm.
• Being inflexible. Every child responds differently to each transition. Do research and adjust what works for your family. Kim Antisdel is a freelance writer and interior design sales rep for KC and surrounding areas. She lives in Liberty with her husband, stepdaughters and toddler son. As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns.
Special Beginnings EARLY LEARNING CENTER Quality Christian early care and education for over 20 years! LENEXA Infants-School Age 10216 Pflumm Rd. 913.894.0131 School Age Care & Summer Camp Kindergarten thru 6th Grade Lenexa Location
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OLATHE Infants-Pre-K 14169 Murlen Rd. 913.393.2223 OVERLAND PARK Infants-Pre-K 8205 W. 108th Terr. 913.378.1075
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finding the right doc
d
uring your baby’s first year, you’re going to be spending quite a bit of time with your child’s health care provider. Take steps before your baby arrives to choose a doctor you trust and with whom you feel comfortable.
When should you start the process? Anywhere between one and three months before your due date is an ideal time to start shopping around for a pediatrician or a family physician. Try not to wait until the last minute. “Once you go to the hospital, there’s a lot going on. You’ll be seeing a lot of doctors. You’ll be going through labor. It’s not something you want to decide off-thecuff,” says pediatrician Aaron Mayer, DO, Meritas Health Pediatrics, Kansas City, MO. When you arrive at the hospital to deliver your baby, you’ll be asked whom you’ve selected for your child’s primary care doctor. They will then notify your baby’s physician, and he or she will provide a physical examination of your infant within 24 hours after delivery.
Pediatrician or a family physician? Both practitioners are trained to provide quality health care for your family. Your choice most likely will boil down to personal preference and the rapport you have with a particular physician. Here are the primary differences between the two types of physicians: A family practice doctor is trained to provide health care to individuals at all stages of life, from newborn to senior. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, family physicians train for three years in real-life clinical settings and are trained in all areas of medicine ranging from pediatrics and internal medicine to obstetrics. Physicians should be
s HOT TIP
Where to begin? “Honestly, I think consulting with friends and family is probably best. If your friends like their doctor, you are likely to find a good fit with them as well,” says Dr. Kallie Foss, MD, FAAP, Olathe Health Pediatrics. Make sure the recommended physicians are part of your health insurance network. Also check out area hospital websites, which often feature doctors who are nearby and accepting new patients.
Schedule a prenatal visit. Once you have a list of two or three physicians, call and schedule a prenatal visit to help you get a feel for the doctors’ personalities and office environments. While some physicians may prefer to do a phone consultation, a face-to-face appointment can help you get a sense of the office and nursing staff (are they courteous, warm and helpful?), as well as the overall feel of the clinic (is it kidfriendly, clean and welcoming?). “You don’t really know if the physician’s personality meshes with your family unless you speak with them in person,” Dr. Mayer says. “It’s important to do prenatal visits to
see if the way they act, the way they treat you and the environment of the clinic fit with what you want for your family.”
Make a list of questions. Now that you have prenatal appointments lined up, consider what issues are most important to you. For example, you might ask: • Who will see my baby in the hospital? • How soon after we leave the hospital should we see you? • What is the schedule for well-child checks and immunizations? • What can I expect during well-child checks? • How long are the typical wait times at appointments? • How do you handle after-hours calls? • Which urgent care do you recommend? • What’s your availability for last-minute appointments? • What kind of acute care do you provide? “If you’re having a boy, you might want to also ask about circumcision,” Dr. Foss says. “It would also be good to let the doctor know if you have had any complications during the pregnancy that may affect Baby after he or she is born.”
Evaluate the visit. After the appointment, reflect on how you felt about the doctor and the practice. • Were your most pressing questions and concerns addressed? • Did you feel comfortable? • Did the doctor support or respect your opinion regarding issues that matter to you? • Did you feel listened to? • Did you feel rushed? • What were the office and support staff like? • What was the clinic environment like? • Was the location convenient?
Many people, including physicians, have strong opinions about issues like breastfeeding and circumcision. Choose a physician who will support you or at least respect your personal views regarding issues that are important to you.
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board certified by the American Board of Family Medicine and licensed in the state in which they practice. A pediatrician specializes specifically in childhood conditions, diseases and treatment for patients from newborn to age 18. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), following medical school, a pediatrician-in-training completes three or more years of courses focused entirely on pediatrics. Seek a pediatrician who is licensed and has obtained the designation of Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics (FAAP), which means he is board certified in pediatrics and adheres to the AAP’s standards and guidelines.
for your new baby Need to break up? If, over time, you become dissatisfied with your child’s physician or you need to switch providers because of changes in insurance or a relocation to a new community, make sure you have your child’s medical records, including vaccine history, transferred to the new physician you select. Most of all, take the time to partner with a health care practitioner who will listen to your concerns, offer sound advice and options and provide quality, compassionate health care throughout your child’s development. You’ll feel more supported and well-informed as you go about the business of raising a healthy, thriving youngster from babyhood and beyond.
It’s important to do prenatal visits to see if the way they act, the way they treat you, and the environment of the clinic fit with what you want for your family.
Freelance journalist Christa Melnyk Hines and her family reside in Olathe. She is thankful to have found a compassionate and thoughtful pediatrician for her kids. Christa is the author of Confidently Connected: A Mom’s Guide to a Satisfied Social Life. As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns.
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common postpartum pains
a
s if being pregnant and becoming a new mom isn’t enough change in your life, managing and dealing with postpartum symptoms after delivery (especially unexpected ones) can add to stress and exhaustion. Most pregnant moms expect to be a little sore after delivery, but you might be surprised to know you may experience weeks—or even months—of these discomforts. Hang in there— remember, these possible pains will pass, and you are beginning a lifetime of joy with your new addition!
night sweats While your hormones are adjusting, you might find yourself sweating like there’s no tomorrow. Lyndsey says, “I had no idea I could have night sweats like that! I would wake up soaked!” Tip: place one of the crib pads you have for Baby on your side of the bed to keep your mattress dry!
perineal pain Many women will tear naturally or have an episiotomy during childbirth, which can cause quite a bit of discomfort afterward. “A third-degree episiotomy made it so painful to change positions!” Tara shares.
bowel movements/ hemorrhoids If you have had stitches after delivery, going to the bathroom may be difficult. Sara says, “I was terrified to poop after
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I had my baby. I would say it took me a good month because I was so sore and was scared to push.” Another symptom you may encounter is hemorrhoids. “Painful, annoying and the only part of my recovery that I can complain about,” Kylie says. “I spent so many hours soaking in a warm bath, with my new baby attached to my breast, trying to find relief from the pain and itching. The hemorrhoids stuck around for months.”
breast engorgement/ tenderness Your breasts are likely to be swollen, lumpy and painful until your milk comes in a few days after birth. Using warm compresses or hand expressing a small bit of milk can help ease the discomfort. Breastfeeding can be tough in the beginning while your breasts and nipples get “broken in.” Shawna says, “I had no idea chapped nipples were going to be so painful and intense!”
cramping First-time mom Lindsey says a symptom that surprised her “was the initial cramps after delivery when feeding.” Jenny agrees: “No one told me I’d cramp when I nursed. Totally crummy having nipple pain and cramping simultaneously!”
general aches and pains I remember after our first child feeling like I’d been hit by a truck. Every fiber of my being hurt and ached. It had never occurred to me that all the pushing, muscle tensing, etc., would cause me to feel like I’d had the most intense workout of my life—and in a sense, I guess I had! Many moms I questioned had other pains as well, ranging from hip and sacrum pain to rib pain to C-section scar pain to joint pain. In fact, one mom says, “I swear I still have a child in my ribs and I haven’t been pregnant for over two years! Worst rib pain ever!” Lauren says, “The back pain from constantly holding, changing, nursing and playing were all a big surprise.”
Having trouble sleeping after Baby’s birth? Log onto KCParent.com for tips for getting a good night’s rest.
Most postpartum pains vary as much as your pregnancies. What you experience one time, you may not the next, and vice versa. Lauren says, “I’m a NICU nurse, so I’ve been to a lot of deliveries and know you can get really swollen from long, complicated labors…but I still wasn’t expecting to be so incredibly swollen after having my first baby with a relatively quick labor. The second time around, I felt I knew what to expect and plan for but delivered a bigger baby with no swelling at all!” Kaylee, a postpartum doula and paramedic offers some great insight: “Not being able to get enough restful sleep exacerbates any other symptoms moms may be experiencing. Taking advantage of Baby’s naps or calling in helpers are strategies that can help you minimize your recovery time and make life with Baby
more enjoyable.” Keep in mind as well that while the majority of postpartum pains are normal, you should definitely speak up to your doctor if you are unsure.
Which of these common postpartum pains did you experience? a. b. c. d. e.
Night sweats Perineal or c-section scar pain Bleeding Breast/nipple tenderness All of the above
Julie Collett writes from Overland Park, where she is pregnant with her fourth and thinks postpartum pains get a bit easier each time! As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns.
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when paperwork is like a pregnancy “One of the things adoptive parents need to recognize is the inherent need for flexibility and the recognition they will not be able to control exactly how things happen.” — Susan Timmons
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t
he adoption process is a journey, but the reward is great. It’s easy for me to forget my 3-year-old son doesn’t share common DNA with me or my husband. We’re family nonetheless, and the process to become a family was truly a labor of love. That labor actually began a few years before he was born, when we began considering different ways to adopt. We knew we could adopt internationally, do a private domestic adoption or adopt through foster care. After attending an informational meeting on international adoption, talking
with some social workers and much prayer, we decided to pursue a private domestic adoption. We chose to work with a Kansas Citybased non-profit agency. Nikki DeSimone Pauls, a licensed adoption social worker in the Kansas City area, advised us to keep several things in mind when choosing an agency, including ethics and care for the expectant parents who are considering making an adoption plan for their unborn child. She also stressed the importance of agencies’ counseling expectant parents before they decide to make an adoption
“I have never met a birthparent who didn’t love their child. They are incredibly brave and unselfish as they strive to put the needs of their child first. It is important to know this…to show compassion and give encouragement and recognize the role the birth family has in the child’s life, even if they never see each other again.” — Susan Timmons
plan. Pauls believes the non-profit model is best for adoption agencies. “There is no reason this should be looked at as a business,” she told us. After we decided on an agency, we began our home study. No matter what kind of adoption one chooses, a home study is a necessity. This process includes providing copies of birth certificates, marriage licenses, financial records, employment information, references, interviews with social workers, background checks, health information and more. The endeavor is time-consuming, and once it’s complete, a social worker will determine approval and write a final report. As we completed our home study, I also made a profile book about our family with details about us and why we were adopting. Our agency then had this book to present to the biological, expectant parents who get to choose the adoptive parents for their child. We officially began our adoption process around February of the year our son was born, and we were matched with our son’s biological mother at the end of July. This gave us about a month and a half between being matched and the time he was born in mid-September. At the time of our match, we had little to nothing prepared for a baby in our home. We quickly painted and decorated the room, bought furniture and baby gear and gratefully received donations from friends. Our son’s biological mother determined the specific plan for his delivery and, in a gracious and selfless act, she allowed me in the delivery room. Additionally, the hospital gave us a room there during the course of his hospital stay.
Other logistics required our attention. Our son was born in Kansas, but we live in Missouri. Adoption law required us to keep him in Kansas until paperwork was exchanged between the states. We stayed with a friend of mine for several days until this happened— something that required us to have our bags packed and ready to go at a moment’s notice in the days leading up to his birth. Susan Timmons, a licensed adoption social worker in the Kansas City area with more than 30 years of experience, emphasizes the need for flexibility like this in the adoption process. “There is much that is out of one’s control when adopting, and that can feel scary,” Timmons says. “There are things one can decide, such as what type of adoption to do and what type of child one feels best to parent, but it is impossible to predict the exact timing of things. So one of the things adoptive parents need to recognize is the inherent need for flexibility and the recognition they will not be able to control exactly how things happen.” Amy Toebben, an adoptive mom in Gladstone, echoes this idea of needing to be flexible. “There can always be an idea of a plan, but that plan can change at any time,” Toebben says. “It might not necessarily be negative, but it can change.” Toebben also says having patience and understanding where others are coming from is key. This has been important both for Toebben’s family and for my family in developing and keeping an open relationship with the biological parents of our children.
“I have never met a birthparent who didn’t love their child,” Timmons says. “They are incredibly brave and unselfish as they strive to put the needs of their child first. It is important to know this…to show compassion and give encouragement and recognize the role the birth family has in the child’s life, even if they never see each other again.” When completing a domestic or international adoption, adoptive families also must consider how they are going to finance the endeavor. Between placement fees, expectant parent counseling, the cost of the home study, attorney fees and assistance often provided to an expectant mother, a domestic adoption generally costs between $15,000 and $30,000 when done through a non-profit agency in the area. “An agency may spend literally 100 face-to-face hours with an expectant mom during the course of her pregnancy, and we can’t just do that for free,” Pauls says. “We are available 24/7 to these women, and if they need to take advantage of that when they are lying awake at 2:00 a.m, we want them to be able to do that.” Pauls says she encourages adoptive families to research grants and hold specialty fundraisers with family and friends. Remember, too, a federal adoption tax credit ends up providing significant assistance after the adoption is complete.
Allison Gibeson lives in Lee’s Summit and is the mom of a happy 3-year-old.
kcparent.com july-september 2017
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what’s up, doc? a parent’s guide to dealing with a sick baby
b
abies are confounding little creatures when they’re perfectly healthy, so the arrival of an illness can send a parent’s worry-machine into overdrive. Is that fever too high? Could it just be gas? Is that color of vomit normal? Should the baby be taken to the doctor? Fear not, parents. We’re here to break down how to handle the yuckies like a pro—and give you some peace of mind.
You Know Best Believe it or not, paternal instincts are real. You and your partner are with your child more than anyone, and you’ve been there from the beginning. You know her temperament. If she’s acting in a way completely outside the norm of anything you’ve seen before, don’t ignore it. Listen to your body and your child’s–they’ll tell you more than you ever could imagine.
Watch the Temperature
For tips on reducing the risk of SIDS, visit KCParent.com.
Babies get fevers for a number of reasons. They are constantly fighting off bad germs and infections, so a fever showing up is completely normal. However, there are indicators something else could be going on. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, here’s when it’s time to head to the doctor:
• Under 3 months old: Any fever over 100.4 F, even if there is no other symptom of illness
• 3-6 months: Any fever over 101 F • Over 6 months: Any fever over 103 F
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Fevers don’t need to be the only symptom to send you to the doctor, though. Difficulty breathing, extreme lethargy or difficulty swallowing are all warning signs that something more complex could be going on.
Strip Search If your baby is suddenly inconsolable and crying for seemingly no reason, don’t immediately press the panic button. Quickly remove all of your baby’s clothing and check him from head to toe. Look for simple solutions, like Cheerios stuck in an unsavory location or a diaper that was on too tight.
Know What’s Typical
THE BEST
weekend planner for family fun in KC!
First and foremost, if you’re unsure about a symptom your baby is exhibiting, it’s never wrong to call the doctor to check. However, getting to know some common indicators can give you a little peace of mind—your baby’s body may just be dealing with some to-be-expected challenges.
• Vomit – Babies spew. It happens. Many times it’s because they’ve eaten too fast (milk is yummy!) or too much. Clean up the mess for what seems like the 100th time, but keep an eye out for additional occurrences that seem much too frequent. You could be dealing with acid reflux, in which case a doctor visit is necessary.
• Gas – One culprit of discomfort that disguises itself as something much more serious is gas in Baby’s tummy. Gas causes extreme crankiness and sometimes tears. Make sure during feedings you’re stopping to occasionally rub your baby’s back to release that excess air. If she seems especially gassy, you could try some gripe water drops in her milk. • Teething – If your normally fantastic sleeping baby suddenly wakens every three hours, covered in drool and a pool of tears, he’s probably teething. The teeth hurt most right before they break through, so don’t be surprised if the worst night is the one right before those chompers show up.
The likelihood that you’ll end up at the pediatrician’s office more than a few times while your baby is young is likely, so don’t get down on yourself if your doctor greets you with, “Back so soon, eh?” The fact that you’ve shown up means that you care and you’re concerned. Over time, you’ll feel more comfortable diagnosing what your baby is going through. Until that time, keep the Tylenol handy and the extra baby snuggles coming. After all, nothing soothes a sick baby like a parent’s presence and love.
Kim Antisdel is a freelance writer and interior design sales rep for KC and surrounding areas. She lives in Liberty with her husband, stepdaughters and toddler son. As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns.
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h
a new mom’s guide to finding mom friends
ow could it be that one of the happiest times of my life was also one of the loneliest? As I spent day after day with my brand new baby, it became evident that the biggest part of my life was something I didn’t share in common with my pre-mommyhood friends. I was a stay-at-home mom anticipating milestones like crawling and eating solid foods, while my friends were pursuing professional milestones that didn’t include rice cereal or potty chairs. They were all congratulatory and happy for the birth of my baby girl, but they couldn’t relate. And I didn’t want to bore them with tales of sleepless nights and the latest bargain on cute baby clothes at Target. As the only “new mom” in my circle, where was I to find other mom friends? As we cross from one stage of life to another, sources for friends change, and the dynamics change as well. As girls, we bond over a sticker album or shared extracurricular activities. In college, favorite authors, clubs and pop culture are the stuff of new friendships. But suddenly parenthood poses another key ingredient to the equation: values. All at once your values, a.k.a “parenting style,” are your friendship resume. Can a Happy Meal Mom and an All-Organic Vegetarian Mom really become BFFs? Can Love and Logic mix with 1-2-3 Magic? Soccer Moms and Ballet Moms? Super Scheduled Moms and Casual
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Freestyle Mothers? Trendy and Stylish former models with Garage Sale Queens? As if all of those factors aren’t enough, motherhood friendships pose an additional complication. Unlike childhood pals who deal with a one-to-one equation, suddenly two or more people must be friends with two or more people. Jennifer has five boys; you have one girl. Your child is shy and timid; your neighbor’s little one is rambunctious and active. Motherhood friendships aren’t just two ladies chatting over coffee, they are family friends. Finding those kindred spirits isn’t easy. If you’re wondering where your mommy BFF is, try one of these possibilities. Hint: Start with the idea that appeals to you most. It’s probably the one your next BFF will choose also!
1
Participate in activities. One of the best things about living in a city is the long list of terrific outings for the preschool set!
2
Join a moms group. Moms groups like Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS.org), Mothers and More (MothersAndMore.org) and others are a great source of friends. Groups feature structured meetings with guest speakers, offering great conversation topics for new moms and taking the pressure off newbies by creating ice breakers.
3
Go where kids go. Visit the local park (search “Best Parks” on KCParent.com). Check out the kids section at the library or bookstore (and they all offer great weekly story times for infants through older kids). Visit indoor play places at local community centers, at the mall or kid-friendly restaurants in your area. Visit KCParent. com and click on “Going Places” to find great places to visit near you.
4
Meet other moms through the people you know. Do you have a few mom friends but you’d like to make more? Host a Moms Night Out and ask everyone to “bring a friend.” Has your husband been talking about a friend at work with children the same age as yours? Invite their family over for a play date and see what happens.
Whatever you do, don’t give up. My oldest daughter and I attended story time for months before we met good friends. I joined MOPS and spent several weeks getting to know other moms before discovering some of my closest friends. Finding and making mom friends takes time, but it’s worth it. Moms need the support of a good friend on this journey, and friends are just waiting to be found. Kristina Light misses her MOPS days and still loves her MOPS pals post-preschool mommyhood!
Reprint from 2010 KC Baby Magazine For KC Baby’s 15th anniversary, we take a look at the cover and a sample page of our Winter 2009-10 issue.
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MATERNI T Y YE A R S
KC B A BY
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Parenting topics trend and change over time, but some issues remain timeless. Choosing quality childcare is as important to parents today as it was several years ago.
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G A Z I NE MA
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homemade baby food
one of the biggest reasons parents choose to make baby food is to know the exact ingredients their child is eating.
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O
nce parents decide to begin baby food, their next step is choosing which baby food to use. What brand? Fruits, vegetables or a combination? What about organic? While pre-made options are good, homemade baby food is becoming more popular and for good reason. Making your own baby food is easier than you think. Homemade baby food has many benefits. One of the biggest reasons parents choose to make baby food is to know the exact ingredients their child is eating. “I chose to make my own food because I wanted to know exactly what my baby was eating,” says Clarissa McGinnis, Kansas City, MO. “I didn’t want all the preservatives that come with store-bought baby food. Also, I always have healthy veggies on hand, so why not?” Other reasons for choosing to make baby
food include its being more economical than prepackaged food, and parents can choose which fruits, vegetables and combinations they want, as well as whether to use organic ingredients. Finally, Baby gets used to eating the same foods the rest of the family is eating, just in puree form. Nothing is perfect, and while making baby food has some real advantages, there are some drawbacks to homemade baby food. For many parents, time is the biggest factor. Preparing the individual servings of food takes time—picking up prepackaged items is certainly faster. Store-bought food is more convenient and doesn’t require fridge or freezer space, while the homemade version does (WebMD.com). If you decide to make your own baby food, you’ll find it a pretty simple process. To get started, all you need is a way to cook
the food, a way to grind it up and a way to store the pureed end product. Many systems are available that steam and puree in one, but investing in another piece of kitchen equipment isn’t necessary. Chances are your kitchen already contains everything you need—no purchase necessary! Steaming and baking are the most preferred cooking methods because they preserve most/all of the nutrients. Microwaving can be used for small portions, but the amount of nutrients destroyed in this prep method varies based on the fruit/vegetable you use. If you choose this route of cooking, use glass and only small amounts of food at a time. Once the food is cooked, drain and reserve the liquid (except for carrots, because of the high nitrate level) and transfer the cooled food to a blender or food processor. Both of these appliances work well to create thin, smooth food. Blenders work well for larger portion sizes, and for small, single servings, an immersion blender will work also. For thicker, chunky
food (only for babies who are older and transitioning) a potato masher works just fine (WholesomeBabyFood.com). Blend in the reserved liquid to achieve the desired consistency. Now the time has arrived to store the food you’ve made. The amount of food is probably the largest factor in deciding how and where to store. Baby food can be stored in the fridge for up to 48 hours. All additional food should be frozen. “I got covered ice cube trays and, about once or twice a week, I would steam and process food, put it in the ice cube trays and pop them in the freezer to make little food cubes,” says Leslie Glasco, Kansas City, MO. “Then, after they were frozen, I’d label and date big freezer Ziplock bags and put the food cubes in those, to store and use whenever I wanted. I would just need to get out a few cubes and heat those up in a pan, right before I fed my baby.” Other methods of freezing include using glass containers (make sure to only use
glass jars made for freezing) or dropping the baby food onto wax paper in clumps, like when you make cookies, freezing them and then transferring to a Ziplock bag (WholesomeBabyFood.com). The final step is thawing the food when you are ready to use it. Planning ahead is the easiest approach, pulling out the ice cubes or clumps the day before and letting them thaw slowly in the fridge. Because planning ahead is not always possible (or Mommy brain gets in the way), you can thaw the food in a glass bowl in the microwave, by submerging the bowl in a bigger bowl of hot water or by heating in a small pot on the stove. Now you are ready! Have fun and experiment with different combinations that your baby is sure to love!
Jessica Heine has loved making baby food for her two older children and looks forward to the experience with baby number three in the near future.
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16200 Midland Dr. n Shawnee, KS 66217 EverFitKC.com n 913-258-8060 kcparent.com july-september 2017
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nestingnuggets
exercising during pregnancy
B
eing pregnant isn’t easy. Morning sickness, lack of sleep, an uncomfortably changing body and frequent visits to the ladies’ room often make hitting
the gym for a workout the last thing on your mind. However, did you know that exercise has big benefits for both you and your developing baby? It’s true! Research shows that a simple walk around the block or session of yoga can improve mood, sleep and even recovery time.
Research shows that a simple walk around the block or session of yoga can improve mood, sleep and even recovery time.
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Is it safe to drink caffeine during pregnancy? Can I change the cat’s litter? For answers to these and other questions, log onto KCParent.com. The first question on your mind, though, may be whether exercise is safe during pregnancy. In most cases, exercise is safe during pregnancy and even recommended. If you were physically active before you were pregnant, staying active during pregnancy is likely safe. Dawn Rattan, owner of EverFit, a gym in Shawnee, states, “It’s okay to work out throughout your entire pregnancy. Keep moving and you’ll have more energy, a better delivery and lifted spirits. Plus, you’ll have the added bonus of a faster ‘bounce-back’ to your pre-pregnancy body!” If your doctor gives you the okay to exercise, go for it! You have so many wonderful reasons to keep moving, regardless of your uncomfortable, growing belly. Here are some of the benefits you can look forward to:
• Improved circulation. This, in
turn, helps prevent constipation, hemorrhoids, leg cramps, varicose veins and swelling of the ankles.
• More energy to make it
through the day. A strengthened cardiovascular system and stronger muscles help you accomplish more with less effort.
• A better night’s sleep. Regular
exercise will tire you enough to put you into a deeper, more restful sleep.
• Improved mood. Exercising can
lessen your mood swings, improve your self-image and allow you to feel a sense of control.
• Childbirth preparation and
recovery. Some studies suggest that the fitness level of the mother can result in a shorter labor, fewer medical interventions, less exhaustion during labor and a speedier recovery.
• Better moods. Research has found
that exercise during pregnancy reduces depression, releasing endorphins that
help improve mood while diminishing stress and anxiety.
• Lower blood pressure. Walking
regularly has been found to keep your blood pressure from rising.
• Less lower-back and pelvic
pain. While the baby bump is putting pressure on these areas, exercise and yoga can be wonderful ways to ease the discomfort.
When beginning your exercise routine, be sure to keep it regular. Exercise at least three days a week rather than just occasionally. Remember, a simple 15-minute walk at lunchtime can suffice. Take note that your heart is working harder during pregnancy, and your lung capacity is also decreased, so you’ll have a tougher time catching your breath. You’ll know whether you’re working too hard if you can’t breathe normally. A little sweating and breathlessness is fine, but if you are constantly winded or your heart is pounding, ease up a bit. Don’t exercise to exhaustion. Rattan recommends asking the trainer for modifications as your pregnancy progresses. After your first trimester, avoid exercise that requires lying flat on your back, such as crunches. This position can decrease blood flow to you and your baby. Also important is avoiding overheating when exercising during the first trimester, as it can be dangerous to the baby. The sauna and steam room are no-no’s. So, what types of exercise are best during pregnancy? Here are some great ways to stay fit and reel in the benefits:
• Swimming: It’s one of the best
exercises during pregnancy, as it’s easy on the joints and relieves swollen ankles.
• Yoga: It strengthens core muscles,
eases back pain and helps you relax. Research shows it may even make your labor shorter and more comfortable.
Try a prenatal class, which is gentler and focuses on relaxation.
• Indoor cycling: Cycling on a
stationary bike is generally safe, even if you’re just starting an exercise program. It’s a great way to boost your heart rate without stressing your joints.
• Weight training: Light strength
training can help you stay toned before and after delivery. Avoid heavy weights where you have to lie flat on your back.
• Brisk walking: This is an exercise
you can do all the way up to delivery. Whether you’re on a trail or treadmill, walking can boost your mood and tone your muscles.
• Low-impact aerobics: Aerobics
keep your heart and lungs strong, tone your entire body and give you a burst of endorphins (the feel-good brain chemical).
• Kegels: Kegels strengthen the muscles that help hold up the uterus, bladder and bowels, which helps during labor and delivery. These exercises are discreet, so you can do them anytime, anywhere, and no one will even know!
While pregnant, remember to modify your workout routine as needed. A 5-mile run may be out of the question when you’re six months pregnant, and that’s okay. If you’re in a class, be sure to let your instructor know you’re pregnant so he/she can help modify your exercise as needed.
Kansas City mom and author Gina Klein enjoyed the gentle stretching and relaxation of prenatal yoga during her two pregnancies, along with light weight-lifting and brisk walks. As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns. kcparent.com july-september 2017
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birth S
PA C I
I
n the quest for perfect birth spacing, many parents labor over what they deem
the “Goldilocks Plan”: Not too close together. Not too far apart. Just right. What is the perfect spacing between one child and the next? Experts recommend waiting 18-24 months between pregnancies for two reasons. First, that span gives the mother’s body adequate time to recover fully from the demands it endures throughout pregnancy. Second, waiting at least that long lowers the risk that a subsequent pregnancy will result in miscarriage, placental abruption, anemia, preeclampsia, preterm labor, hysterectomy or postpartum depression. Medical providers give most women the green light outside of those parameters. Still, what constitutes ideal spacing between pregnancies is debatable. And answers from parents are as unique as the individuals who give them. Birth spacing is a personal decision that varies broadly based on factors such as age, medical history, family history, career goals and financial impact. But even an ideal plan provides no guarantee that life will follow suit. For Wichita native Lindsey Etcheson and her husband, Braden, the perfect plan included two-year spacing between each child. The couple optimistically looked forward to seeing that dream come to fruition after they married in 2007. “I had it all figured out and knew it would be just great,” Lindsay, a children’s minister and mother of three, recalls. In 2010, the Etcheson family grew to include
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N G — what’s best? a healthy baby boy. Shortly after, however, the Etcheson’s birth spacing plan fell by the wayside because of circumstances outside their control. “We lost our second child,” Lindsay explains. “Upon having our next son, we were faced with infertility issues, followed by a high-risk pregnancy. I always used to think a good motto for me was ‘plan your work and work your plan’ but then I realized there is so much out of your control.” The Etchesons are not alone in deviating from their initial plan. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that 30 percent of women do not wait the recommended 18-24 months between pregnancies for a number of reasons. The overwhelming group of these fertile insurgents tend to fit in two primary groups: 1) teen pregnancies between the ages of 15 and19 or 2) white, college-educated women who are married and childbearing in their 30s and hoping to avoid the complications of “advanced maternal age” that loom on the horizon. The remaining 12 percent are what could be deemed the “surprise” group. These parents would tell you they intended to have another child at some point, but found themselves facing that reality sooner than expected. On the other hand, many other parents face the opposite fertility forecast: an initial pregnancy followed by secondary infertility, health complications or financial constraints that necessitate waiting to become pregnant again. So, to plan or not to plan? That is the question. Ultimately, the answer lies with you, the parents. Each couple needs to evaluate what will be best for the dynamic of their family, careers and long-term plans. The beautiful result is that there is no right or wrong way to go about it. Your family size and spacing—however big or small, broadly
or narrowly spaced it may be—will be just the perfect fit for you. Here’s what local families have to say about what they enjoy most about the unique spacing within their own families.
12-18 MONTHS APART My oldest two are only 12 months apart. We basically didn’t leave our house because nowhere was worth going that bad. It was nice to be in baby mode already but definitely challenging having a non-walker and a baby in a car seat. Now at 9 and 10 years old, they’re still the best of friends and will never remember life without each other. Tiffany Anzalone, Olathe mom of three
Birth spacing is a personal decision that varies broadly based on factors such as age, medical history, family history, career goals and financial impact. “We did not plan on having ours so close together (15 months), but now I love it. It definitely has its own set of challenges, but they are best buds, have a lot of the same interests, can share the same toys, etc. Having two in diapers—one of which was a toddler who didn’t want to listen when I was breastfeeding—was not easy, but at their ages now (3-1/2, 5 and 2), it’s kinda nice.” Becky Felix, Kansas City, MO, mom of two
2-4 YEARS APART “I had wanted our kiddos at least two years apart and missed it by a day. I wanted the older to have more independence and also wanted time for my body to heal and
recoup between pregnancies. They are far enough apart in age that I didn’t really feel overwhelmed having two, and they are close enough that they are buddies and play with each other.” Sara Clark, Olathe mom of two
5+ YEARS APART Our [three] kids are four and seven years apart. My youngest started first grade the same day my oldest went off to college. She lectured me the whole way to school about what I was thinking, spacing them so far apart! Luckily, they made up for it as adults. Cathy Beelman, St. Joseph mom of three
MIXED SPACING (BIG & SMALL AGE GAPS) My brother and I are seven years apart, and I said I would never have that much time between my children. Well, never say never! We have as little as one month’s difference in age through adoption and as much as 14 years’ difference between oldest and youngest—and I wouldn’t have it any other way. There are great benefits for the whole family when you have much older siblings. They are a tremendous help plus they get a first-hand glimpse of what it’s like to take care of little ones. They gain skills that will help them when they have their own children. The younger ones see the older siblings go through different things and maneuver life, and the bond between them is wonderful to see.” Leandra Beauford, St. Joseph mom of four
Freelance writing boy-mom Lauren Greenlee writes and raises her three children from her Olathe home. As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns.
kcparent.com july-september 2017
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SPLISH
H S A L SP
summer fun for little ones!
S
ummer is the season for water sports. Fortunately, Kansas City has something for everyone— from free spraygrounds for young children, to daring water rides for teens and adults, to classes and programs, pools and waterparks and everything in between. Dive into fun this summer!
A Few of Our Favorite Pools TIP: Most of these attractions are open
through Labor Day weekend.
verland Park Swimming Pools: •O
The City of Overland Park has six outdoor pools. Bluejacket Pool: Avoid summertime shivers in this heated pool flanked by decks, shade and grassy areas. Marty Pool: Built in 1994, Marty is the ideal facility for younger children. The facility is surrounded by lots of grassy areas perfect for laying out or relaxing. Tomahawk Ridge Aquatic Center:
At TRAC, the city’s largest overall pool facility, visitors can enjoy lots of shade
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and grassy areas for laying out or relaxing. Roe Pool: Set among trees in a pleasant park atmosphere, Roe has water depths ranging from 3 feet, 6-inches to 12 feet. Stonegate Pool: Originally the city’s smallest pool, Stonegate Pool was rebuilt in 2009 after more than 40 years of summertime fun. Young’s Pool: One of the city’s largest pools, Young’s makes its mark with a 31-foot-tall water slide that dares guests to take the plunge down the drop slide. The indoor pools at Matt Ross Community Center are open year round.
• S ummit Waves in Lee’s Summit: This
family aquatic center features a 904-foot action river! The outdoor water park also boasts one body slide and one tube slide, a six-lane lap pool with diving boards, a water playground area featuring mini-slides, dump buckets and more. When taking a break, enjoy the concession stand with healthy items, snacks, drinks and more.
• B lack Bob Bay in Olathe: This
waterpark features raft water slides, lazy river, shallow water play structures, family changing room, shade areas for party rentals, dive well (two 1-meter diving boards and two 3-meter diving boards), 50-meter pool and baby pool.
• Discover more when you click “Going Places” on KCParent.com
Indoor Water Play: Little ones love to play in water, but sometimes Mom wants to skip the sunscreen and the bath afterward. Head to one of these indoor attractions where they offer great water tables for children to enjoy.
• The Children’s EduTainment Center at
Paradise Park (1021 NE Colbern Rd.,
Lee’s Summit, MO, Paradise-Park.com) offers many areas of imaginative play, but a hands-down favorite is the indoor water table where children play with boats, rubber ducks and other water toys. In
addition to this fun play area, kids also love the child-size village with a grocery store, pizzeria, bank and home—a favorite for my children. They love to pretend they are choosing groceries for the family and ringing them up for customers. Other fun activities include face painting, a ball pit (with a “genie” system that sanitizes the balls as the kids play), art center and more. The favorite outdoor feature is the playground with unique hands-on activities for children. This isn’t your ordinary playground! Kids dig for dinosaurs, climb giant webs and “go fishing” (with magnets) in the pond.
• S cience City at Union Station (30 W.
Pershing, Kansas City, MO, UnionStation. org). Science City, housed in Union Station, is Kansas City’s own handson science center with permanent and traveling exhibits to educate and engage children. Little children enjoy the water table, where they learn about water as it flows through tubes and tunnels. Other fun sensory exhibits for little ones include the musical playground, the dinosaur dig, the nature center and more.
Water Fun at Home
• B EST Homemade Bubble Solution
Ingredients: 4-1/2 c. water, 1/2 c. liquid dish soap (brand name is best), 4 t. sugar. How To: Measure water first, then add soap (if you measure soap first and add running water, you will have dish suds). Tip: Make the night before, allowing the mixture time to set, and use the next day for bigger bubbles.
• H omemade Bubble Wands You can
find many easy ways to make your own bubble wands. A few simple ideas: Bend a wire coat hanger into fun shapes and use it as a bubble wand (for a wand this large, aluminum pie plates work great to hold the bubble solution. Bend pipe cleaners into favorite shapes and use them (these are easier for children to bend). Use string and soda straws. Simply run some string through a soda straw or two (straws cut to be shorter work too) and tie the string together—essentially creating a straw necklace. Then hold onto the straws and
dip the string into the bubble solution. Straws work by themselves—but be sure to blow the bubbles and not drink the solution!
• T oy Car Wash Hook up the sprinkler to have some fun. Add a twist by setting up an outdoor car wash for your toy cars (or real car for that matter) or wash favorite play toys. Play classic games around the sprinkler like tag or duck, duck, goose, and this summer, parents join in the fun! The family that plays together stays together.
• K iddie Pool “Free” Toys You don’t have
to splurge on fun pool and bath toys for little ones. Many common household items make great water toys. Have an empty yogurt carton or margarine container? Empty plastic containers make great scoops to play in the pool or tub. Brand new sponges or clean washcloths are great fun in the tub too. Let children fill an empty salt shaker or salad dressing bottle with water and watch as it pours through the spout like a sprinkler. Measuring cups, spoons and squirt bottles you have around the house all make great water toys as well.
• Bonus: Cool off after your water play
with a delicious homemade frozen pop. Buy plastic Popsicle molds and have fun creating your own flavors! Fill with juice and some fresh berries or fruit, or make pudding pops with instant pudding and add bananas for fun. Let the kids create their own tasty concoctions all summer long. TIP: Fresh berries and peaches are a favorite addition to all summer treats, and you’ll find a full u-pick berry guide on KCParent.com.
Kansas City Area Spraygrounds: Kansas City is home to many wonderful spraygrounds! Spraygrounds are water playgrounds where children can play through sprinklers and sprays on a safe surface. This is a fantastic fun, free way to cool off on a hot summer day. Spraygrounds are open through Labor Day across the metro! Kansas City, MO, Spraygrounds: (Open 11:00-7:00) • Harmony Park: E. 10th Street & Agnes Avenue • Jacob L. Loose Park: W. 52nd Terrace & Summit Avenue (Closed Wednesdays.) • Sunnyside Park: W. 83rd Street & Summit Avenue • Longview Tract: 7107 Longview Rd. • Golden Oaks Park: NE 46th Street & N. Antioch Road • Garrison Square: E. 4th Street & Forest Avenue • Central Park: Linwood Boulevard & Bales Avenue • Nelson C. Crews Park: E. 27th Street & Michigan Avenue • Douglass Playground at Grace Williams Nicholl Park: 2632 Jarboe St. • Zona Rosa: I-29 & Barry Road Independence, MO, Spraygrounds:
• McCoy Park: 24 Highway & N. Delaware • Rotary Park: 24th & Hardy
Lee’s Summit, MO, Sprayground:
• Miller J. Fields Park: 1301 SE 3rd Ter. Grandview, MO, Sprayground:
• John Anderson Park: 4701 E. 135th St. (Note: This one features a fun pirate theme!)
Liberty, MO, Spraygrounds:
Kristina Light’s daughters love spending summer days at local waterparks with their friends.
• City Park: 970 S. Hwy. 291 • Ruth Moore Park: 401 N. Morse Kansas City, KS, Spraygrounds:
• Eisenhower Park: 2901 N. 72nd St. • Heathwood Park: 10th & Parallel Parkway
Overland Park, KS, Sprayground:
• Roe Park: 10400 Roe Ave. kcparent.com july-september 2017
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double diapering
M
any years ago my husband and I set out on our merry little cloth diaper journey, excited to save both money and the planet while putting something soft on our first baby’s sensitive wittle buns. A few months in, my husband had to travel frequently for work, so I stayed with my parents to make my life easier as a new mom. My cloth diapering career screeched to a halt when Dad said he didn’t want me to wash poopie diapers in his washing machine. Enter what I like to call “double diapering.” UrbanDictionary.com defines double diapering as “the process of putting two diapers on a baby or child, rather than one,” like at bedtime or naptime. My definition, however, is “going back and forth between cloth and disposable diapers and enjoying the benefits of both.” Here are some things I love about being a bipolar diaperer of sorts: You’re still saving green. These days you can get cloth diapers cheaper than $15 each by compromising a little. You can ask for them as baby shower and new baby gifts. Consider getting them used or borrowing them from cloth diapering pals to offset the cost of convenient disposables. You’re a diapering chameleon. You’re like the mom who bottlefeeds AND breastfeeds,
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which means you can converse easily with any mom because you have a foot in both diapering worlds. You’re still saving the planet because you’re using cloth SOME of the time. The rest of the time you’re making life easier on yourself (vacation when you deserve some downtime, nighttime when you need sleep, when your husband is out of town and you just need a laundry break, etc.) so you can be Super Mom.
For more great tips on saving money on diapers, head to KCParent.com. You can “make up for” using disposables by using gDiapers (when you’re done, you can flush them, throw them away or toss them into a compost pile) or chlorine-free disposables. You can work and do cloth. More and more daycares are welcoming cloth diapers so that doesn’t always have to be a factor in your diapering decisions. The cloths go home in a bag for you to wash.
You won’t have to fight with your spouse. If one of you is pro-disposable and the other pro-cloth, you both win and get to diaper how you want when the other isn’t around. You have security. You know how extreme couponers feel having a bunch of stuff they got for free sitting on shelves in their basement? Now you too can feel warm and snuggly having a bunch of clean cloth diapers plus a backup package of disposables around. You worry about diaper rash either way. Listen to a mom who knows: I haven’t noticed any more or less diaper rash with cloth versus disposable. So don’t let anyone guilt you into thinking either option will be bad for Baby’s buns. You save a lot of space in your diaper bag when you throw a couple of disposables in during a busy week of lots of outings. You know disposables hold more pee, so don’t sweat it if you use them at night. I love them for when I’m at the zoo with the kids all day and don’t want to change the baby every couple of hours or pack out my cloths.
Kerrie McLoughlin (TheKerrieShow.com) double-diapered her own five kids from 2001 to 2012, which came to about 25,000 cloth and 5,000 disposable diapers. Sheesh!
>> SUMMER 2017 CALENDAR
Visit the KCParent.com calendar for over 1,000 more events!
playdates WEEKLY
Readers: These events typically occur every week, but there may be exceptions. Please call ahead to verify times.
DAILY Indoor Playtime Mon-Thu, 10:00-9:00; Fri-Sat, 9:00 am-10:00 pm; Sun, 10:00-9:00; Jump City (Belton). Jump City offers bouncing, sliding and jumping fun for kids 12 years old and younger. With wall-to-wall inflatables, a variety of arcade games and full concession options, Jump City is a favorite for kids. JumpCityKC.com
Open Jump Mon-Thu, 4:00-8:00; Fri, 4:00-11:00; Sat, 10:00 am-11:00 pm; Sun, 10:00-8:00; Urban Air (Overland Park). Urban Air Overland Park is an attractive solution to a common problem: needing one place to entertain kids of every age. UrbanAirTrampolinePark.com/overlandpark-kansas-trampoline-park
Story Time Visit MyMCPL.org or JoCoLibrary.org to find a complete list of story times for all ages, every day of the week!
MONDAY Moms FREE Monday 9:30-8:00, Paradise Park. Moms are free at the Children’s EduTainment Center with a paid child’s admission. 816.246.5224, Paradise-Park.com Dollar Bowling 1:00-9:00, Aaron’s Family Entertainment Center (Belton). AaronsFEC.com
Play at Community Center Mon, Wed & Fri mornings, Westport Roanoke Community Center & KC North Center. Bring little ones and let them run and play in the gym. Cost: $1/session. 816.784.6100, KCParks.org
FRIDAY
TUESDAY
Junior Jaunts Third Friday of the month, 10:15-11:00, Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Bring your baby in a stroller or carrier for an adult-focused, yet infantfriendly, mini museum tour. Free. Nelson-Atkins.org
Toddle Time Tue & Wed, 9:00-11:00, Matt Ross Community Center. Tunnels, games, puzzles...lots for your little one to play and learn. $1-2/child. 913.895.6390, OPKansas.org
Story Time 10:30-11:30, Jump City (Belton). For only $5, enjoy a story time and unlimited play. JumpCityKC.com
Tots on Tuesday Third Tue of each month, 10:00-11:00 or 11:00-Noon (choose a session), Kemper Museum. Dress up, play color-matching games, try on crazy hats and read stories with a trendy twist. 816.753.5784, KemperArt.org Creative Story Time Tue & Fri, 10:30, Ceramic Café. Paint pottery and enjoy a story. $12/child. 913.383.0222, CeramicCafeKC.com
WEDNESDAY What’s for Dinner? Wed & Sat, 3:00, Burr Oak Woods. The captive amphibians, fish and turtles enjoy their feast every Wednesday and Saturday. The snakes will be fed every other Friday. MDC.mo.gov
THURSDAY Nature Story Time 10:00 & 11:00, George Owens Nature Park. Children are invited to participate in a nature focused story time and craft. 816.325.7115, GeorgeOwensNaturePark.org
Story Time at Wonderscope 10:30, Wonderscope Children’s Museum. Free with admission. New stories and activities each week in ArtWorks Exhibit. Wonderscope.org
Paint Me a Story Alternating Fridays, 10:30, Paint, Glaze & Fire. Paint a ceramic piece, listen to a story and enjoy a snack. $15/child. 913.661.2529, PaintGlazeAndFire.net Family Night 6:30, Kansas City Public Library Plaza Branch (4801 Main St). Free weekly programs include concerts, puppet shows, theater, magicians and more. KCLibrary.org
SATURDAY First Saturday Roller Roo & Second Saturday Disney Skate 10:00-Noon, Skate City (10440 Mastin, Overland Park). Early bird skating is just $5.25/ skater; $2/skate rental. 913.888.6668, SkateCityKansas.com Weekend Family Activities 1:00-4:00, Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art (4525 Oak, Kansas City). Art activities led by museum guides. Nelson-Atkins.org Home Depot Kids Workshops Alternating Saturdays, Home Depot stores across the metro. Free workshops for children where kids build wooden projects to keep. Workshops.HomeDepot.com kcparent.com july-september 2017
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>> SUMMER 2017 CALENDAR
Visit KCParent.com and search “Favorite Dates” for even more ideas!
parents night out
Big Picnic at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art Fourth Friday Art Walk in Downtown Lee’s Summit Monthly March-August, 5:00-8:00, Downtown Lee’s Summit, DowntownLS.org. Activities include artist receptions, artist showcases, “Music in the Park” at Howard Station Park, street theater, “Yoga in the Streets” and even some surprises!
Mummies Opening June 20, Union Station, UnionStation.org/Mummies. Come face to face with the largest exhibition of real mummies and related artifacts ever assembled. The exhibit provides a window into the lives of ancient people from every region of the world, including Europe, South America and Ancient Egypt, offering unprecedented insights into past cultures and civilizations.
Gardens of Myth Thru Oct. 22, Powell Gardens, PowellGardens.org. Goblins and fairies and trolls, oh my! See these and other mythical creatures this
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summer as part of Gardens of Myth, which is making its garden debut at Powell Gardens! The exhibition is a collection of incredibly realistic sculptures depicting creatures of myth from around the world. They range in size from tiny fairies to an incredible 25-foot dragon! Each sculpture is handmade and painted by artist Kendall R. Hart and his team.
Hamlet Tuesday-Sunday, June 13July 2, 7:30, Southmoreland Park, KCShakes.org. Free professional production of Shakespeare’s classic. Prince Hamlet has been summoned home to Denmark to attend his father’s funeral. One night, a ghost reveals itself to Hamlet, claiming to be the ghost of Hamlet’s father, the former king. The ghost claims that the old king was murdered by Hamlet’s uncle, Claudius, who has since married Hamlet’s mother and assumed the throne.
Big Picnic July 23, Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, Nelson-Atkins. org. Celebrate National Parks and Recreation Month as KC Parks partners with the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art to host the biggest picnic the region has ever seen! The Donald J. Hall Sculpture Park and Theis Park will be linked to become a giant space for Kansas City to come together for an evening of fun. Pack your own picnic or grab dinner from an on-site food truck! Well-Played 2017 July 26-27, Aug. 1-3, 6:30-9:00, City Hall Plaza (220 SE Green St., Lee’s Summit, MO), DowntownLS.org. Well-Played is the newest street theater production from Summit Theatre Group and Downtown Lee’s Summit. The play follows two street musicians through a chance meeting in downtown Lee’s Summit. The story begins at the City Hall Plaza, carries on to the Neighborhood Café, includes a dinner there and concludes near the Amtrak Station.
Ethnic Enrichment Festival of Kansas City Aug. 18-20, Swope Park,
Screenland at the Symphony: Star Trek Into Darkness Sept. 8 &
KCParks.org. Feel the world beat in the heart of America. This event is one of the largest festivals of its kind in the nation and features more than 60 different cultures selling their native foods and crafts and performing ethnic music and dances. The festival is held near the front entrance of historic Swope Park.
10, Kauffman Center’s Helzberg Hall, KCSymphony.org. J.J. Abrams’ riveting Star Trek Into Darkness soars onto the giant screen in Helzberg Hall while your Kansas City Symphony performs Michael Giacchino’s thrilling score live. Starring the brilliant super-villain Benedict Cumberbatch, the film will leave you screaming just one word: KHAAANNNN!!
Between the Lines Sept. 8-Oct. 1, Spencer Theatre, KCRep.org. An enchanting new musical that asks the question what would happen if the lines between fiction and fantasy become blurred with reality? When the handsome hero for her favorite book literally starts speaking to her, Delilah thinks she’s found the perfect escape from the humdrum and challenging life of a high school outsider. Constantly on the outs with the ‘in’ crowd, Delilah needs to find a friend who truly understands.
First Fridays in the Crossroads Monthly, Crossroads Arts District, KCCrossroads.org/first-fridays. Enjoy the city’s liveliest and most popular event. Arts organizations, galleries, studios and a wide variety of local businesses feature regional and national artists, as well as live entertainment starting at 5:00. Best explored on foot, the First Friday tradition continues to grow, with up to 10,000 attendees. Most make it an evening, with dinner and drinks from a colorful array of restaurants and entertainment venues.
Olathe Live: Special Forces Sept. 15, Frontier Park (Olathe), OlatheKS.org/government/parksrecreation/special-events/olathe-live. Enjoy a great free concert that both entertains and supports local charities. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets, dog on leash and coolers with non-alcoholic beverages. You also may purchase food and beverages at the event (proceeds support charity).
First Friday Weekend in the West Bottoms, Friday-Sunday, West Bottoms District, WestBottoms.com. The historic West Bottoms district, home to the KC Stockyards in the 1940s, is now famous for its haunted houses in the fall and its antique and boutique shops yearround. On the first weekend of each month, the shops are open late. Some shops in the district are open daily all year, and others open only for the first weekend of the month.
KCParent.com is your one stop for tons of pregnancy and baby articles. Also, check out the calendar of events for
KCParent.com, changed daily
TONS of great activities for little ones all over KC!
kcparent.com july-september 2017
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bellylaughs
I was cooking eggs and couldn’t figure out why nothing was happening. I stared at raw eggs for a good five minutes before I realized the stove wasn’t on. – Karen
We asked KC Parent’s 53,000+ Facebook fans:
What is the craziest thing you or your spouse has ever done while suffering from pregnancy brain? Rebecca: I put a gallon of milk in the microwave! Tammy: I paid for my groceries and then proceeded to walk out of the store without any of my bags.
Laura: I tried to unlock my house with my car key clicker. Didn’t work.
Mary: I packed my son’s lunch in the morning, just like I always do. When he got home he reported his sandwich was just two pieces of bread.
Susan: I asked the cashier how much a $50 gift card would cost to buy.
Kristen: I left the remote for the TV in the freezer. Three times.
Meghan: I was filling out forms at the doctor’s office and couldn’t remember how old I was. I had to call my mom and ask.
Karen: I was cooking eggs and couldn’t figure out why nothing was happening. I stared at raw eggs for a good five minutes before I realized the stove wasn’t on.
Phoebe: I put hand soap in the dishwasher. LOTS of bubbles!
Tracey: Walked into the bathroom. Forgot why I was in the bathroom. Went back to watch TV and then realized I had to go to the bathroom!
Kate: I was convinced “of” was spelled “ov.”
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Over 200 acres of adventure filled with more than 1,700 animals to explore. Travel all over the world with a trip to the Kansas City Zoo.
Visit Today!
Explore
2017 FOTZ Memberships
Now Available!
Kansas City Zoo
OPEN DAILY | kansascityzoo.org | 816.595.1234 The Kansas City Zoo, a private, non-profit organization is operated in agreement with the Kansas City, MO Board of Parks and Recreation Commissioners, partially funded by the Zoological District in Jackson and Clay Counties in MO, and is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.
The perfect arrival. The perfect place. The new Birth Place
Enhanced capabilities. More amenities. The new Birth Place blends the care you’ve grown to trust with an impressive facility you’ll immediately love. It’s a combination that makes the Birth Place the perfect place for you and your little one.
Come see our new addition. • Secure webcam-enabled nurseries • Advanced, Level II Neonatal ICU where you can stay overnight with your baby in the same room • 4-story obstetrics wing featuring luxury suites with queen-size beds, big enough to share
Meet the doctors who deliver at Olathe Medical Center at olathehealth.org/birthplace