KC Baby Magazine Summer 2018

baby

&

maternity

JULY- SEPTEMBER 2018 | KCPARENT.COM

the

preparing siblings

choose your doctor issue

for a new addition

TIPS FOR

budgeting

after baby arrives

OMG, I’M PREGNANT! NOW WHAT?!?

For our first trick:

Fast ER wait times It’s a magical feeling when your kids get patched up without a long ER wait. And the best part is that our hospitals exceed the national benchmark for treating pediatric emergencies.* At our hospitals, it’s not a magic trick, it’s reality.

Learn more at KCkidsER.com.

Text “ER” to 32222** to view current average ER wait times in your area.

ER CARE FOR KIDS & ADULTS Belton Belton Regional Medical Center I-49 (Hwy 71) & Hwy 58

Kansas City Research Medical Center Hwy 71 & Meyer Blvd.

Independence Centerpoint Medical Center 39th St. & Little Blue Pkwy

ER of Brookside Rockhill Rd. & Holmes Rd.

Lee’s Summit Lee’s Summit Medical Center Northeast of Hwy 50 & Todd George Rd. Lexington Lafayette Regional Health Center 15th St. & State St.

Olathe ER of Olathe East of Black Bob Rd. on 135th St. Overland Park Menorah Medical Center 119th St. & Nall Ave.

Overland Park Regional Medical Center • Main ER • Dedicated Pediatric ER I-435 & Quivira Rd. Shawnee ER of Shawnee West of I-35 on Shawnee Mission Pkwy

* According to National Pediatric Readiness ** Message and data rates may apply. For more information visit texterhelp.com.

ER wait times are approximate and provided for informational purposes only. If you are having a medical emergency, call 9-1-1.

20080 A 2/2018

Choosing the right pediatrician leads to a lifetime of good health.

Expecting? Call to schedule your prenatal tour now.

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baby&

maternity

the choose your

OB/GYN & pediatrician issue

JULY- SEPTEMBER 2018

IN EVERY ISSUE 7

Craft Corner

Nesting Nuggets 10

NEW PARENT’S GUIDE TO PICKING A PEDIATRICIAN, PG. 12

Labor & Delivery Guide 16 Calendar of Events 31 Belly Laughs 34

YOUR PREGNANCY 8 Pregnant…Now What?!?

YOUR BABY

YOUR TODDLER

22 Budgeting After Baby

7 Edible Finger Paints

10 Preeclampsia

24 Local Mom’s PPROM Story

26 Summer Fun in KC

12 Picking a Pediatrician

28 Family Fave Winners

31 Playdates

14 Preparing Siblings for New Baby

34 Belly Laughs

16 Labor & Delivery Guide 30 Cravings

Our cover features Beau from Overland Park. Cover and select interior photos by KiaBondurant.com

32 Date Night

baby&

maternity

JULY- SEPTEMBER 2018 | KCPARENT.COM

the

ON THE COVER Check out the virtual Labor & Delivery Guide at KCParent.com!

4

kcparent.com july-september 2018

I’m Pregnant...Now What?!? 8 Picking a Pediatrician 12 Preparing Siblings for New Baby 14 Budgeting After Baby’s Arrival 22

preparing siblings

choose your doctor issue

for a new addition

TIPS FOR

budgeting

after baby arrives

OMG, I’M PREGNANT! NOW WHAT?!?

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.

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 kcparent.com july-september 2018

5

baby&

editor’sletter

maternity

W

KC Baby & Maternity is hosting a Virtual Baby Shower! Visit the Hospital Labor & Delivery Guide at KCParent.com/Labor-Delivery for details on how to win THOUSANDS in prizes including

hen I thought I might be pregnant with my older, I took an at-home pregnancy test. It was positive. So I took another. Also positive. I then called my husband and asked him to pick up more at the store. Those were all positive as well. I wasn’t convinced, so I asked friends for OB/GYN recommendations and made an appointment. At my first appointment the nurse said, “You’re here because you’re pregnant?

Congratulations!” I told her I wasn’t sure I was pregnant and that they should probably do some tests to confirm. She asked if I’d taken a test at home. I answered yes, five of them. She chuckled and told me, “You’re pregnant!” A million thoughts raced through my mind but mostly I kept thinking to myself, “Now what?!?”

If you are newly expecting and wondering “now what?” never fear—we’ve got you covered! From tips on how to choose an OB/GYN to finding the perfect pediatrician, we’re here to help! And our Labor & Delivery Guide, both here in print and online at KCParent.com, will help you find the best place to deliver your bundle of joy.

Luckily, for my second pregnancy I only needed one test to convince me. The second time around was different in many ways, not only how I felt physically, but also because I had a toddler to look after. I worked hard to prepare Tori for the arrival of her baby sister. I thought I had done a pretty good job until one day Tori said to me, “Now, I know when the new baby is coming, but when does she leave?” It made me smile and realize we still had a bit to cover.

Local mom Julie Collett, who has had plenty of experience prepping siblings for the new baby’s arrival, offers great tips on pg. 14.

Get out and enjoy the warmer days with your little ones, KC!

A Medela Pump in Style® Advanced On-the-Go Tote!

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kcparent.com july-september 2018

Margaret Sarver, Editor

Publisher Michael Gimotty Michael@KCParent.com Associate Publisher Darrell Dean Darrell@KCParent.com Editor Margaret Sarver Margaret@KCParent.com Art Director Kim Tappan Tappan Design Kim@KCParent.com Advertising Sales Darrell Dean Advertising@KCParent.com Digital Media Manager Kristina Light Kristina@KCParent.com Copy Editor Susan Crainshaw Susan@KCParent.com Distribution To be added to our distribution list, e-mail Distribution@KCParent.com Local Contributing Writers Julia Cairl, Leavenworth Julie Collett, Overland Park Judy Goppert, Lee’s Summit Lauren Greenlee, Olathe Christa Melnyk Hines, Olathe Megan Kapple, Kansas City Kristina Light, Kansas City Regan Lyons, St. Joseph Sarah Lyons, Olathe

LOCAL CONTENT

Business Office 11936 W. 119th #335 Overland Park, KS 66213 913.782.3238 phone • 913.681.5139 fax

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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

These edible finger paints only require two ingredients, and worrying whether Baby decides to eat some isn’t necessary.

edible finger paints

T

he idea of getting finger paints out with a baby might seem scary or daunting, especially if your little one loves to put everything in his or her mouth. These edible finger paints only require two ingredients, and worrying whether Baby decides to eat some isn’t necessary. This is a great sensory activity for babies and toddlers!

Materials Needed:

• Plain or vanilla Greek yogurt

• Food coloring

Step One: Separate the yogurt into a few different bowls to create multiple colors.

Step Two: Add 2-3 drops of food coloring to each bowl and mix well.

Step Three: Baby can either “paint” with the yogurt directly on a highchair try or a piece of paper. Have fun!

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.

Wood Slice Mobile

Brushstroke Painted Letters

DIY Silhouettes

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

kcparent.com july-september 2018

7

what do I do now?!?

y

ou took the test. It’s positive!

Now what? If you’re anything like most mothers, a million things run through your mind when you find out you’re pregnant. We put together a simple list of the first steps after the big news.

choose your obstetrician When choosing your OB/GYN, consider what is most important to you first. Perhaps you would prefer a doctor at a certain hospital, a doctor who has a low rate of cesarean deliveries or a doctor with good bedside manner. Be sure to speak with your partner about what qualities you prefer in a doctor.

Once you know what qualities you’re looking for in your OB/GYN, do your research. Read reviews online and ask your friends and family for recommendations. While researching doctors, research the hospitals as well.

Is the hospital close to where you live? Does it offer a NICU in case of complications? Will they accept your insurance?

i’m pregnant!

When you have narrowed down your search, set up a time to meet with a few doctors. Bring a list of questions to ask, so you don’t forget anything. If you have a chronic illness, you will want to find an obstetrician who has experience dealing with possible complications that could arise. Pay attention to the doctor’s demeanor while meeting with you. That will be a great indicator of whether this doctor’s personality will work with yours. Also, take note of the nursing and office staff. You will be spending the next nine months with this staff at your appointments, so make sure they are accommodating and friendly.

The most important factor is that you feel compatible with your obstetrician.

You want to feel comfortable asking questions and trust that your doctor will make the right calls regarding your pregnancy and delivery. When in doubt, listen to your gut to make the final choice.

If for some reason you don’t like the obstetrician you initially choose, you always can change to a new doctor.

begin taking prenatal vitamins According to the American Pregnancy Association, “During pregnancy, a woman’s daily intake requirements for certain nutrients, such as folic acid (folate), calcium and iron will increase. Vitamins and minerals such as iron, calcium and folic acid are vital for proper fetal growth, development and healthy adult living.” Prenatal vitamins help both you and your baby get the nutrients needed for a healthy pregnancy.

Many doctors recommend taking a prenatal vitamin as soon as you begin trying to conceive. Speak with your health care provider to find the right prenatal vitamin for you.

decide when to share the news Have a conversation with your partner about when and with whom to share the pregnancy news. Many women keep

the news a secret until they’ve reached their second trimester, when the risk of miscarriage is lower. Others prefer to spill the beans immediately. Abby Baker, a mother of two from Columbia, MO, chose to tell her friends and family immediately.

“We didn’t keep it to ourselves, but only told close friends and family so we had their support,” she says. “We made that decision because we would want them to also know if something didn’t go right.”

evaluate your lifestyle Are you a smoker? Now is the time to quit. Do you enjoy a cocktail or two regularly? Now that you’re pregnant, trade out the cocktails for “mocktails.” What about your diet? Are you eating healthy to ensure your baby receives all the nutrients he needs? Do you need to cut back on all that coffee or soda you drink?

“The first thing I did when I found out I was pregnant was think about my diet and how I needed to eat to help the little baby in my belly,” says Lonna McCourt, mother of two from Oregon, MO. Now is the time to reevaluate your lifestyle to see what might need to be changed while you’re pregnant. For example, you should avoid undercooked meat like sushi or deli meat, which can harbor harmful bacteria.

You also will want to check with your doctor to make sure all of your current medications are safe to continue while pregnant. Your health care provider also will be able to provide you with a list of things to avoid and add to your everyday lifestyle while expecting.

do your homework If this is your first pregnancy, you will want to read up on the changes that are taking place in your body. What to Expect When You’re Expecting by Heidi Murkoff is the longest running New York Times best seller ever and is read by 93 percent of women who read pregnancy books.

Grab a copy and follow along as your baby grows from conception to delivery.

Many apps are available to download too, including the What to Expect Pregnancy & Baby Tracker, Pregnancy + and the Bump-Pregnancy Countdown.

These apps show your baby’s weekly growth through 3D images, videos and articles. They also give tips for easing morning sickness and other pregnancy symptoms you are likely to experience.

You even can connect with mothers who have due dates near yours!

enjoy it!

This is an exciting time in your life.

Don’t forget to sit back, relax and enjoy every minute of it! Go out and splurge on that adorable outfit for the baby or pick up a cute new maternity top. Take some time to yourself to feel the joy that pregnancy can bring to you and your family!

Regan Lyons is a freelance writer who lives in St. Joseph, MO, with her husband and 4-year-old daughter.

As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns.

Important Questions to Ask Before Choosing an Obstetrician ❧ If you aren’t there to deliver my baby, who will be in your place? ❧ What is your c-section rate? ❧ What percentage of your patients are high risk? ❧ How do you suggest coping with pain during labor? ❧ At what point in pregnancy would you suggest inducing labor? ❧ What is your after-hours contact policy? ❧ Will you agree to respect my wishes throughout the process?

kcparent.com july-september 2018

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nestingnuggets

everything you need to know about

s

preeclampsia

hanna Eisenbrandt, Excelsior Springs, was 27 weeks pregnant when her blood pressure began to rise and her face, hands and feet started to swell.

“I thought it might just be ‘normal’ pregnancy swelling,” Eisenbrandt says, who was also experiencing migraine-like headaches, blurred vision and extreme exhaustion.

Knowing that her diabetes and a thyroid condition put her at higher risk for preeclampsia, Eisenbrandt had been monitoring her blood pressure between her prenatal appointments. A week later, on Easter Sunday, her blood pressure shot up to around 190/110 mm Hg. Normal blood pressure in pregnancy should be below 140/80 mm Hg. Although she was reluctant to contact her doctor on the holiday, her husband convinced her otherwise. Alarmed, the physician on call advised her to head to the hospital immediately. She was admitted that day for preeclampsia.

“My little delusional world of ‘maybe this is going to go away’ kind of shattered then,” Eisenbrandt says.

10 july-september 2018 kcparent.com

what is preeclampsia?

Preeclampsia typically occurs any time after 20 weeks gestation and, more rarely, can develop up to six weeks postpartum. Women with preeclampsia generally experience high blood pressure and protein in the urine.

Symptoms can come on suddenly and can include severe swelling, headaches, abdominal pain, shortness of breath, nausea and/or vomiting and visual disturbances.

According to Preeclampsia.org, the condition is a leading cause of maternal and infant illness and death around the world.

who gets preeclampsia?

Preeclampsia affects between 5 to 8 percent of all births in the United States. Although some women are at higher risk than others due to preexisting conditions like autoimmune disorders, obesity, diabetes or chronic high blood pressure, any pregnant woman can experience the disease.

African American women are particularly at risk for the condition and are three times more likely to die from it. No one knows exactly why, but researchers are pursuing several lines of inquiry.

“How much of this risk is due to environment?

How much of it is systemic racism? And how much of it is just having a genetic predisposition?” says perinatologist Devika Maulik, MD, who treats patients at Children’s Mercy Hospital and Truman Medical Center and is an assistant professor at the UMKC School of Medicine.

what complications can occur?

Patients with preeclampsia can suffer from kidney injury, liver failure, pulmonary edema, stroke and seizure.

“In very severe cases, women can develop HELLP syndrome, which is a variant of preeclampsia,” Dr. Maulik says.

HELLP, which is an acronym for Hemolysis, Elevated Liver enzymes and Low Platelet count, is a life-threatening condition.

Preeclampsia also can cause complications for babies.

“Risks to the baby include intrauterine growth restriction, placental abruption, still birth and complications related to preterm birth,” says Rebecca Lobell, MD, Saint Luke’s Women’s Health East, Lee’s Summit.

Placenta abruption occurs when the placenta, your baby’s life support, separates from the wall of the uterus.

how do you treat preeclampsia?

can you prevent preeclampsia?

“The treatment for preeclampsia is delivery,” Dr. Lobell says.

Once Eisenbrandt was admitted to the hospital, her health care providers began magnesium sulfate and IV blood pressure medications.

“Being on magnesium for me was like having the worst body aches you can imagine. Feeling heavy and having no real concept of time, I couldn’t focus,” Eisenbrandt says.

Although the treatment may have been difficult, research suggests that magnesium sulfate is far superior to anti-epileptic drugs in preventing seizures that can occur with preeclampsia.

When her baby’s heart rate began to drop, doctors performed an emergency c-section at 29 weeks. Weighing in at just 2 lbs., 9 oz, Eisenbrandt’s son, who is now 5 years old, spent seven weeks in the neonatal intensive care unit.

“Good health before pregnancy, lifestyle alterations and optimizing preexisting health conditions are the best ways for expectant moms to lower their risk of developing preeclampsia,” Dr. Lobell says.

Baby aspirin is recommended for high-risk women beginning in the second trimester, which can reduce their risk by about 24 percent.

Because the condition can strike any pregnant woman, pay attention to any unusual changes in your body.

“After what we went through, I’m a big believer in listening to your body,” Eisenbrandt says. “If you have a gut feeling that something isn’t right, you need to follow up on it.”

Dr. Maulik agrees.

“I always caution my patients that the whole point of them being my patient is that they’re supposed to ‘bother’ me. They’re supposed to tell me if something is not quite right,” she says.

“Preeclampsia is one of those diseases that can get bad really quickly.”

To learn more about preeclampsia and your risk factors, consult with your physician or check out Preeclampsia.org or ACOG.org.

Freelance journalist Christa Melnyk Hines resides in Olathe with her husband and their two children, ages 11 and 13. She is the author of Confidently Connected: A Mom’s Guide to a Satisfying Social Life.

As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns.

Although rare, preeclampsia can occur after the birth of your baby.

Watch for these symptoms: • Severe headache • Visual disturbances • Pain right below your ribs • New onset of high blood pressure

The starting point for a healthy smile.

Did you know?

The American Association of Pediatric Dentists recommends that infants be seen by a pediatric dentist at the age of one or when their first teeth are visible. This will help them be comfortable with their future appointments and provide families with the tools they need to stay cavity free.

Locations:

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

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

StartingPointDental.com

kcparent.com july-september 2018

11

Visit KCParent.com/ Labor-Delivery for details on how to win THOUSANDS in prizes!

the new parent’s guide to

picking a pediatrician “

Medical care is a partnership between parents and pediatricians.

You owe it to your child to find a good partner.

”

12 july-september 2018 kcparent.com

c

ongratulations! You are about to have a baby. The hospital bag is packed, the birth plan is written up and now it’s time to find a pediatrician. At minimum, your child will be at the pediatrician’s office some 15 visits before the age of 5, so it’s to your advantage to put some time and energy into finding the right one. As renowned pediatrician Dr. Bill Sears says, “Medical care is a partnership between parents and pediatricians. You owe it to your child to find a good partner.”

Your baby will be seen by the pediatrician in the hospital shortly after

birth, so it’s important to have one in place prior to delivery. Dr. Elizabeth Musil, MD, a pediatrician at Olathe Health PediatricsOlathe Medical Park, shares, “A pediatrician will come see you and your new baby in the hospital, typically within 24 hours of birth, and then each day until you are discharged. We will answer your questions, see how feeding is going, and examine the baby to make sure they are healthy enough to go home.”

Pediatricians all go through rigorous medical training and are certified through the American Academy of Pediatrics. As such, they are equipped to assess the health of children from birth through adolescence.

This does not mean, however, that they all have the same approach or philosophy toward health care. Evaluate what you’re looking for in a doctor as you begin researching and interviewing physicians— which ultimately means interviewing yourself first. Are you a first-time parent looking for a pediatrician who will not only give medical advice but also help you navigate various parenting philosophies? Or are you an established parent, confident in your parenting approach, just looking for a like-minded doctor? Are you willing to make a trek for a quality professional, or is proximity a higher priority? Do you or your child have any special accommodations that need to be taken into account? For instance, if your child has a medical condition, a pediatrician with a specialization in that condition can be very reassuring.

Likewise, if you have a strong position on breastfeeding, circumcision or vaccinations, finding a pediatrician that supports you in your goals will serve you well.

Once you have those pieces in place, ask those you respect—friends, family, coworkers and neighbors—for referrals.

You quickly may find one name rises to the top. But if you don’t, you always can inquire at your OB/GYN office for a list of recommendations or do a quick search to see which members of the American Academy of Pediatrics practice nearby (and remember to check the state’s medical board to see whether any candidates’ names have been written up for disciplinary actions).

When you have a handful of names, schedule the interviews. Doctors expect to be interviewed but their time is limited, so be prepared to ask your high priority questions first.

Find out right up front by phone whether a pediatrician is taking new patients and also accepts your insurance (after all, nothing is more frustrating than finding Dr. Right only to realize your insurance is all wrong). Inquire about the practice and the doctor’s background. If you like what you hear, arrange an appointment to meet the doctor in person and ask additional questions.

“Prenatal visits are a great way to meet your child’s pediatrician and see the office before they are even born. It’s meant to be

a casual meet-and-greet so you can let the pediatrician know what you’re looking for (if you know) and for them to talk you through questions/concerns you have,” adds Dr. Musil.

The following is a guide of questions to help you throughout the interviewing process.

for the pediatrician • Where did you attend medical school?

• Where did your residency take place?

• Do you have any specializations?

• How long have you been practicing?

• Is this a solo or group practice? If it’s a solo

practice, who fills in when you are not available? If it’s a group practice, how many other doctors would we potentially see and how often would we be able to see you?

•W hat hospitals do you work in conjunction with?

• How do you respond to patients outside of visits?

• Will our first appointment be at the hospital after the baby is delivered or at the first checkup?

about the practice • What are the hours of operation?

• Is there any evening or weekend availability?

• Is there same-day availability?

• How far in advance do well visits need to be scheduled?

• What tests can be performed in-house and what needs to be done elsewhere?

• Are there additional charges for services

such as medication refills, support calls after hours or initial visits?

for yourself • How quickly were you able to schedule the interview?

• Were you on hold for a long time when scheduling the appointment (or in subsequent phone calls)?

• Is the office clean? Did the waiting room appear kid-friendly? Are there toys or books available?

• Did your appointment feel rushed?

•W as the doctor receptive to your concerns or priorities

Arrive early for the appointment to get a feel for the office. Ask other parents in the waiting room what they like or dislike about the practice. Likewise, ask the office staff what the protocol is for handling children with contagious diseases. All too commonly, childbirth classes or parenting books recommend first-time parents ask whether or not a doctor’s office has both well-visit and sick patient waiting rooms.

The reality is most offices do not provide separate rooms because, in practice, it just doesn’t work (for starters, no one wants to sit in the sick room). Ideally, the waiting room should be reserved for well visits, while sick children are expedited to examining rooms (preferably through a separate entrance).

Some parents may be reassured by a certain type of a doctor. A young female pediatrician, for instance, may seem very comforting, whereas an older gentleman may give off a wise grandfatherly disposition. Some parents take comfort in knowing that their child’s doctor is also a mom or a dad, combining both medical skill and parental insight. Because a relationship with a pediatrician can last into a child’s teens, you may wish to take into account gender (as a child ages, he/she may feel more comfortable with a doctor of the same gender). But, in the end, go with your gut. You’ll be sharing very personal concerns throughout your child’s visits. It’s important to feel those fall onto the ears of a trusted source.

Dr. Musil sums it up by stating that “choosing a pediatrician is a big deal and we are all honored that you trust us with your child’s care. I highly recommend scheduling those prenatal appointments.

It’s great to get to know someone in a low pressure environment and figure out if you’re going to click.”

• How long did you have to wait in the

Lauren Greenlee is a freelance writer and mom of three hailing from Olathe.

• Are the office staff and nurses friendly

As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns.

waiting room? and helpful?

kcparent.com july-september 2018

13

preparing kids for another sibling

a

dding a new baby to the family makes for a time full of excitement and joy. You probably get loads of advice on all things baby, but what about preparing the children you already have for the new little one? Many different factors can contribute to how smooth a transition you have when adding a new baby to the household, such as the ages

of your other children and how far apart they are, other life events going on and more. No matter what is going on around you though, a few tips and tricks can make the introduction as painless and fun as possible!

Try as much as possible to be patient, flexible and willing to let your children “in” on the process. You’ll soon have the pleasure of watching sibling

14 july-september 2018 kcparent.com

relationships blossom!

The first, and probably most important no matter the age of your children, is to include and involve them as much as possible. You want them to feel pride and excitement over the new baby, not resentment or bitterness. At the time our fourth baby was born, we had 6-, 4- and 2-year-olds. I took each of them on a little date to pick something for the new baby. Each took great pride in choosing the special item (although there were lots of reminders about not shopping for ourselves!) and was excited to show everyone once we got home. Even now, the older kids ask, “Is that the blanket I picked out?” or “Is that the toy I got?”

The gift has meaning to each of them and eventually will to our baby as well!

I also shared with the older ones how big the baby was at different stages through the pregnancy and what was developing on the baby when. They were able to come to two sonograms—so special to have them involved in such a cool experience!

Allow your older children to ask questions, express curiosity and help with things whenever possible. Children can get diapering supplies, help bathe the baby, put clothes away or even read or sing to the baby.

For younger children, purchasing a baby doll and a few accessories can make the transition smoother. This gives your youngster a chance to mimic what you are doing and stay “busy” while you are tending to the baby. Your family can

expect changes in routine once the new baby arrives, so prepare in advance. Becca, a Lenexa mom, started bedtime routines with Dad more often with her older ones. What a great way to involve Dad and help him feel important too!

A great option for older children is talking about and sharing pictures of them as babies. Ashley, a Kansas City mom with two boys, ages 7 and 8, says, “Sibling rivalry is an ongoing process in our house with two boys 15 months apart, but having a baby now gives them both a good opportunity to be big brothers at the same time, which is special for them to bond over. We have walked through both of their births and looked at pictures together. We have talked a lot about what made them special as babies and how every baby is different.”

Older children also can have input on designing the nursery and helping to put it together. Keep in mind if you need to move a child out of the room where the baby will sleep, be sure to do so several months

in advance. This can help keep jealousy or resentment at bay.

For children of any age, checking out library books about being a big brother or sister or even purchasing a few to have on hand can be helpful. And don’t forget a fun big brother or sister t-shirt too!

Plan the schedule so your other children have quality one-on-one time after Baby’s arrival too. Becca says, “Our oldest got to spend a lot of extra time with Dad once the baby came, but I also made sure he had time with just me.”

Adding a new baby to the household brings many emotions. Try as much as possible to be patient, flexible and willing to let your children in on the process. You’ll soon have the pleasure of watching sibling relationships blossom!

Julie Collett and her family had the pleasure of introducing a fourth baby to the family just last year, and what fun it has been!

AHA! Parenting suggests “bringing the baby into the big kid’s world. If your child is always playing on the floor while you’re always sitting in the rocker feeding the baby, your child will feel the separation.

Whenever you can, sit on the floor next to your older child while he plays, wearing your infant and letting her watch. It’s even worth figuring out how to get comfortable feeding the baby on the floor, if you can do it, just so your older child doesn’t feel so left out during those incessant feedings.”

Special Beginnings EARLY LEARNING CENTER Quality Christian early care and education for over 25 years!

LENEXA Infants-School Age 10216 Pflumm Rd. 913.894.0131 School Age Care & Summer Camp Kindergarten thru 6th Grade Lenexa Location

• PT or FT Schedule • M-F, 6 am to 6 pm • NAC Accredited • Infants to 12 years • Developmental Curriculum Starting at Infants

OLATHE Infants-Pre-K 14169 Murlen Rd. 913.393.2223 OVERLAND PARK Infants-Pre-K 8205 W. 108th Terr.

913.378.1075

specialbeginningsonline.com kcparent.com july-september 2018

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HOSPITAL LABOR & DELIVERY GUIDE | Special Advertising Section CENTERPOINT MEDICAL CENTER 19600 E. 39th St. S. Independence, MO 64057 Centerpoint Medical Center takes the unique needs of expectant moms and personalizes each birth experience. Nearly 8,000 babies have been born since Centerpoint opened in 2007 and, with the most advanced, family-centered care backed by HCA Midwest Health’s technology and resources, we offer private, spacious labordelivery and postpartum rooms, dedicated lactation consultants, and an electronic infant security system and robust communication for Baby’s safety. Centerpoint also has a Level III NICU supported by experienced neonatologists, specialized nurses and more.

816.698.7300 CenterpointMedical.com/ uniquedelivery

MENORAH MEDICAL CENTER 5721 W. 119th St. Overland Park, KS 66209 The spa-like environment at the Women’s Center at Menorah Medical Center is nurturing, relaxing and secure for expectant moms, featuring private and spacious suites for labor, birth and recovery for the length of stay. Backed by HCA Midwest Health’s technology and expertise, the Women’s Center provides compassionate doctors specializing in mother-baby care and experienced nurses and support staff dedicated to caring for moms and newborns. Should the need arise, Menorah has a Level II NICU for babies requiring advanced 24/7 care.

1.877.769.6636 MenorahMedicalCenter.com/ uniquedelivery

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HOSPITAL LABOR & DELIVERY GUIDE | Special Advertising Section OLATHE MEDICAL CENTER 20333 W. 151st St. Olathe, KS 66061 The new four-story Birth Place blends the care you’ve grown to trust at Olathe Medical Center with an impressive facility you’ll immediately love. Our new obstetrics wing with a Level II neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) features secure, webcam-enabled nurseries, an advanced NICU where you can stay overnight with your baby in the same room and luxury suites with queen beds.

The NICU is staffed with RNs specially trained in the care of high-risk infants, neonatal nurse practitioners and board-certified neonatologists.

913.791.4200 OlatheHealth.org/birthplace

OVERLAND PARK REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER 10500 Quivira Rd. Overland Park, KS 66215 Overland Park Regional Medical Center— acclaimed for expertise in caring for situations that may arise before, during, and after pregnancy and childbirth—is backed by HCA Midwest Health and board-certified obstetricians, perinatologists and expert nurses available 24/7.

Spacious birthing suites are designed for privacy and relaxation.

Also offered: the region’s first and most comprehensive certified nursemidwife program, Johnson County’s most advanced Level III NICU, the region’s only dedicated antepartum unit and Johnson County’s only dedicated Pediatric Intensive Care Unit.

913.541.5058 OPRMC.com/uniquedelivery

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HOSPITAL LABOR & DELIVERY GUIDE | Special Advertising Section RESEARCH MEDICAL CENTER 2316 E. Meyer Blvd.

Kansas City, MO 64132 Expectant moms feel confident and comfortable before, during and after giving birth with modern and spacious birthing and recovery suites at Research Medical Center, which is backed by HCA Midwest Health’s technology and resources. Research has doctors specializing in mother-baby care and dedicated, experienced nurses and support staff, plus the region’s most comprehensive certified nurse-midwife program. Research is one of only a few hospitals in the region to offer a comprehensive OB Hospitalist and emergency services programs and a Level III NICU is available.

816.276.3206 ResearchMedicalCenter.com/ uniquedelivery

SAINT LUKE’S CUSHING HOSPITAL 711 Marshall St. Leavenworth, KS 66048 As Leavenworth’s premiere maternity center, Saint Luke’s Cushing Hospital makes your birth experience special with personalized care from our dedicated doctors and nurses.

You’ll labor, deliver, and recover in our newly remodeled suites and spend those first few days bonding with your newborn. From the homelike environment to the walk-in showers with massaging jets, we provide the utmost comfort for mothers and their families during labor and delivery.

913.684.1136 SaintLukesBaby.org

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HOSPITAL LABOR & DELIVERY GUIDE | Special Advertising Section SAINT LUKE’S EAST HOSPITAL 100 NE St. Lukes Blvd.

Lee's Summit, MO 64086 Saint Luke’s East Hospital has been eastern Jackson County’s premiere maternity center for over 10 years. Our maternity center combines all the comforts of home with the most advanced medical technology to ensure a special and safe birthing experience. Rooming-in for parents, special rooms designed for twins, as well as a separate entrance and waiting area just for families are part of our familycentered care. Our Level IIIa NICU ensures even the tiniest patients are well cared for.

816.347.5000 SaintLukesBaby.org

SAINT LUKE’S HOSPITAL OF KANSAS CITY 4401 Wornall Rd. Kansas City, MO 64111 More than 2,400 babies are born each year at Saint Luke’s Hospital of Kansas City. Our maternity center features private rooms where you can room in with your newborn and spend the first days bonding. Our services range from low intervention, natural childbirth to high-tech care for high-risk pregnancies through Saint Luke’s MaternalFetal Medicine Specialists. We are home to Saint Luke’s Heart of America Mother’s Milk Bank, the region’s only human donor breastmilk bank.

816.932.2000 SaintLukesBaby.org

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HOSPITAL LABOR & DELIVERY GUIDE | Special Advertising Section SAINT LUKE’S NORTH HOSPITAL – BARRY ROAD 5830 NW Barry Rd. Kansas City, MO 64154 More than 900 babies are born every year at Saint Luke’s North Hospital. We renovated our maternity center in 2015 to offer mothers and babies all the comforts of home combined with the most advanced medical technology and a Level II NICU. With our centralized location, we can conveniently serve the entire Northland area.

816.891.6000 SaintLukesBaby.org

SAINT LUKE’S SOUTH HOSPITAL 12300 Metcalf Ave. Overland Park, KS 66213 From natural births to traditional and high-risk deliveries, the Saint Luke’s South Hospital maternity center offers the advantages of one-on-one attention and access to the most advanced medical technology. Women labor, deliver, and recover in one of our private, spacious suites, and you’ll remain in the same room your entire stay. Skilled doctors, nurses, and lactation specialists offer a caring and personalized birthing experience in a family-centered environment, supported by a Level III NICU. 913.317.7000 SaintLukesBaby.org

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What to Take to the Hospital

A

s you enter the last part of your pregnancy, it is time to start thinking about your trip to the hospital. Delivery is rarely easy, but making sure that you have a few extra comforts from home can go a long way. So think ahead and pack your hospital bag soon. Here are a few items you may want to pack: • Anything for the actual birth to soothe you (music, favorite book, massage tools, etc.)

• Nightgown or pajamas, including nursing style if you plan to nurse • Underwear, socks and nursing bras • Bathrobe and slippers • Special snacks or beverages • Cosmetics and hair care items • Clothes to wear home…make sure they are loose-fitting, not your size 8 jeans!

• Contact information for family and friends • Camera and any video equipment you wish to use • Clothes for Baby • Receiving blankets • If bottle feeding, a bottle with a newborn nipple • Newborn diapers • Car seat

Check out the interactive virtual

Hospital Labor & Delivery Guide at KCParent.com where users can find comprehensive information on hospitals including descriptions, images, videos, social media links and much more!

Other hospitals in the Kansas City metro that offer labor and delivery services include: Lawrence Memorial Hospital Liberty Hospital North Kansas City Hospital Providence Medical Center Shawnee Mission Health Birth Center Truman Medical Center Hospital Hill Truman Medical Center Lakewood University of Kansas Health System

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Formula

Breastfeeding is not always an option for families for a variety of reasons, and formula is pricey. Coupons and rebates are readily available from manufacturers. Go to the manufacturer’s website and sign up for additional coupons and have friends and family do the same. You also can ask your obstetrician and pediatrician for free formula samples.

Baby gear

Car seat, stroller, high chair, bouncer, swing and more—for someone so small, a baby seems to require a lot of gear. And each item seems to cost a hundred dollars or more.

Buying a new car seat that meets current safety standards is wise, but you can purchase all the other items gently used and sell them again later when your family no longer needs them.

Baby clothes

Babies grow fast! It doesn’t make sense to spend a lot on several cute baby outfits when your child outgrows them only a few weeks later. Consider buying gently used clothing and asking friends for hand-me-downs. If you want new items, buy less than you think you will need because your baby will use them for only a short time.

Budgeting After Baby KC Baby & Maternity is hosting a Virtual Baby Shower! Visit the Hospital Labor & Delivery Guide at KCParent.com/Labor-Delivery for details on how to win THOUSANDS in prizes including

A Medela Pump in Style® Advanced On-the-Go Tote!

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B

abies cost a lot of money! Diapers, formula, clothes and baby gear can take a huge chunk out of your monthly budget. Some families find the cost of child care or reducing to a single income makes the adjustment even more difficult than expected. Here are some tips to cut down on spending.

Trimming Your Baby Budget Diapers To save on diapers, consider switching to cloth. Modern cloth diapers are easy to use and come in cute designs. The initial cost is typically $10-20 per diaper, but they can be reused for years.

If cloth diapers aren’t for your family, you still can find ways to save money on disposable diapers. Check manufacturer websites for high dollar coupons and combine with store sales. Generic diapers are another great way to save and they are typically comparable to name brand.

Child care

To save money on child care, you have to get creative. Ideas include having a family or friend watch the baby at a lower rate, trading babysitting with another family or alternating shifts with your partner to reduce time in child care. Some companies offer flexible spending plans to pay for child care with pretax money.

Trimming Other Areas Wardrobe

The key to saving money on adult clothing is to shop for versatile pieces that can be worn many different ways. A solid color top can be worn with jeans, slacks or a skirt and paired with a scarf, necklace, jacket or worn alone for a variety of looks. Once you have your key pieces, only buy clothing when you really need something.

Food

Several strategies can help cut costs in this area. Purchasing groceries with coupons or on sale or buying generic brands can save money. Also, consider making items from scratch and eating out less to help trim your food budget. A quick Google search will provide you with several $5 meal ideas.

Entertainment

Just because a new baby is in the house doesn’t mean you have to stop enjoying entertainment, but you might need to approach a night out in a new way. You do not need to forego movies, concerts or area attractions but do check deal sites to see whether there are any options available to you. Doing this requires planning ahead to make sure the expenditure fits into the budget and that you have child care covered, if necessary. Also consider whether items like cable or streaming subscriptions are necessary. Choose to pay for the entertainment you use and enjoy.

Reduce

Our homes are filled with items we rarely use. Consider selling these items to put extra cash in your hand that can be used for all those new baby expenses. Have a garage sale, utilize consignment sales or sell items in online marketplaces.

Trim expenses

KCPARENT.COM

Look at the family budget and evaluate where you easily can trim expenses. Do you belong to a gym, have club memberships,

subscriptions or other monthly bills for services you don’t use enough to justify the expense? Discuss with your partner whether some of these items can be cut to free up the money for other expenses.

DIY

A simple way to save money is to do things yourself. Cleaning and lawn services are nice but expensive. Taking care of it yourself is free. Instead of paying someone to repair or remodel things around the house, try it yourself first and save the money you would have spent on labor.

Bringing home a new baby is an adjustment in many ways, and financial priorities may have shifted in your family.

In time, you will adjust to your new lifestyle and budget and you will feel comfortable with budgeting after Baby.

Sarah Lyons is a stay-at-home mom of six children, including 2-year-old triplets. She has learned to cut costs and save money in a variety of ways over the years as they added to their family.

Planning Baby’s 1st Birthday Party?

Find the perfect entertainer, arcade, party supplies, inflatable, live animals, face painter and

11 Ways to Find Hidden Cash in Your Home You may have potential cash lying around your house in the form of unused items that can be sold for cash.

• Gently used designer clothes, shoes and purses • Gold or silver jewelry—even broken items • Old cell phones or electronics • Books, CDs and DVDs you no longer use • Gift cards • Things that were gifts or freebies that you never have used • Collectibles such as figurines, coins or stamps • Outdoor or sporting equipment • Musical instruments • Formal dresses that were only worn once • Home decor and antiques

Growing Growing young young minds minds around around the the world. world.

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gymboreeclasses.com kcparent.com july-september 2018

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ourbabystory

hope for the waiting game: one mom’s story of

PPROM

W

hen I was 17 weeks pregnant with my fifth baby, my water broke. I figured I had accidentally wet my pants and wrote it off as a common pregnancy problem. A few days later, I went to a routine OB/GYN appointment but we didn’t do an ultrasound. I did want to find out the baby’s gender so that same afternoon I went for an entertainment ultrasound.

Even though she was not supposed to give me medical advice, the technician did let me know I had almost no fluid surrounding the baby and to call my OB immediately. That was a Friday, so I had to wait until after the weekend to get in with my doctor.

The next Monday I had an ultrasound, and my doctor just kept saying there was nothing we could do. We had genetic tests done that I had turned down in the

beginning of the pregnancy and was just told to wait. All the tests came back negative for any problems with the baby, and my doctor gave me a referral to Maternal Fetal Medicine (MFM) at the University of North Carolina, near where I lived at the time. I went online and on Facebook and found support groups for Preterm Premature Rupture of the Membranes (PPROM) so I could be armed with knowledge and options by the time I went to my referral appointment.

I was 20 weeks when I had my appointment with MFM and genetic counseling. They did a level 2 ultrasound, and we found out that the baby had working kidneys and even had fluid in his bladder during the ultrasound. I did, however, have zero measurable fluid again. The doctor came in to talk to me and offered termination. I immediately told him that was not an option for me and asked what the next option was. I was then told to come back for an appointment at 24 weeks and, if the fluid level hadn’t changed, I would be admitted to the hospital for the remainder of my pregnancy.

I didn’t quite make that appointment. At 23 weeks, I began bleeding, was admitted to the hospital and given steroids for Baby’s lung development and magnesium sulfate for protection against brain bleeds in case he was born in the next couple of weeks. I spent 10 weeks in the hospital before he decided to make his appearance. He arrived via c-section because he was footling breech after I went into natural labor. He spent 96 days in the NICU and today is 21 months old with chronic lung disease that presents as slight asthma.

Going through this experience and talking with many other women who have too has opened my eyes to how little hope seems to be offered. I was surprised that the medical professionals offered me no hope and that the only option was to terminate the pregnancy. But I now have a beautiful son. As a result, I have joined a group called

There is always HOPE, and giving your baby a chance is ALWAYS an option.

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PPROM is the cause for 40 percent of premature births, so more awareness of this pregnancy complication is essential.

Little Heartbeats that sends out PPROM packs around the world to let people know they have other options and to help give them information for making decisions when it comes to PPROM. It includes a journal and a pen, a coloring book and colored pencils and a pencil sharpener.

I currently am raising funds so we can become an official 501c nonprofit here in the United States; the organization’s founder in the United Kingdom is doing the same over there. We love what we do, and if we can bring even one mother hope for her baby, then it will all be worth it.

PPROM is the cause for 40 percent of premature births, so more awareness of this pregnancy complication is essential. Anyone whose water breaks before 37 weeks has PPROM, but most women never hear that term from their doctors. Also, in the United States, physicians don’t have a set protocol on how to deal with PPROM. I want to help change this, helping more doctors come to a

better understanding of this complication, supporting clearer training on what to do and say when patients face this situation.

Around the area, I am speaking to women’s groups and setting up booths at community events to bring more awareness. I tell everyone I meet our story and encourage women that, if they or someone they know experiences PPROM, there is hope. Do the research and seek out PPROM groups for support and resources. Sometimes, the only ones who can understand are the ones who have been through this before.

As a matter of fact, a Kansas City PPROM mother shared with me about great support she received at a local hospital. Her baby was born at 21 weeks, 6 days gestation, and they both had amazing care at Saint Luke’s on the Plaza.

You never know the knowledge and encouragement you may receive as you share with other moms.

Julia Cairl and her family currently live at Fort Leavenworth, where her husband is stationed with the Army.

As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns.

Our interactive virtual Hospital Labor & Delivery Guide has

HAVING A BABY SOON?

images, complete

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

social media links

descriptions, video, and much more.

SEARCH HOSPITALS BY: • LOCATION • NICU LEVEL • CLASSES OFFERED

kcparent.com july-september 2018

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baby’s first summer,

Kansas City Make your baby’s first summer extra sweet with fun-filled memories of enjoying the best summer has to offer.

Style

Take a picture with an animal.

This summer the Kansas City Zoo (6800 Zoo Dr., Kansas City, MO, 816.285.3689, KansasCityZoo.org) welcomes Bam Bam, a new polar bear playmate for our resident bear, Berlin. They also opened a brand-new Stingray Bay touch pool and a new playground in Africa with accessible playground equipment for all abilities. In addition, enjoy the penguin exhibit, sea lions, indoor exhibits in the Tropics and Discovery Barn and fantastic Australia and Africa exhibits.

Build a sandcastle at a local swim beach.

These local lakes offer great swim beaches for the whole family to enjoy: Blue Springs Lake (816.503.4870), Longview Lake (816.503.4870), Shawnee Mission Park Beach (913.312.8847), Kill Creek Park Beach (913.312.8847), Smithville Lake Beach (816.407.3400) and Watkins Woolen Mill State Park Lake (816.580.3387).

Swing and slide at the park.

Ride a pony.

Deanna Rose (13800 Switzer, Overland Park, KS, 913.897.2360) is a summer must-see, with a dairy barn, petting zoo, pony rides, tiny tractor rides and playgrounds. A day of fun is guaranteed.

Here are three of our favorites: Penguin Park (North Vivion Road & North Norton Avenue, Kansas City, MO) features gigantic friendly animals as the centerpieces of the park. Antioch Park (6501 Antioch Rd., Merriam, KS) is a 44acre park with several great play areas, including Old Dodge Town, a Wild West village. Brumble’s Forest at Meadowmere Park (13610 Byars Rd., Grandview, MO) is one of the most creative playgrounds in the area.

Take a ride on your first train.

The Kansas City Northern Railroad (6000 NW Waukomis Dr., Kansas City, MO) offers 75-cent train rides on Saturdays and Sundays May through September. This 16-inch gauge train ride is perfect for your first train ride. The park is a great spot for a family picnic or kite flying too.

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Read books.

Every local library offers terrific free summer reading programs where children earn prizes for listening (infants and toddlers) and reading (older children) books. You will find a complete Kansas City Summer Reading Program Guide on KCParent.com.

Walk through the flowers.

Stroll at the Overland Park Arboretum (8909 W. 179th St., Overland Park, KS), where admission is affordable (and free on Tuesdays). Enjoy loveliness in the Monet Garden, whimsy in the Train Garden and natural beauty on walks through the woods.

Enjoy your first popsicle.

Independence hosts free Popsicles in the Park events every Tuesday evening in June and July at their local parks. The evening includes live entertainment and hands-on activities for toddlers and young children.

You’ll find details on the calendar on KCParent.com.

Photograph your family in front of a fountain.

Kansas City is home to more than 200 beautiful fountains, making a picturesque backdrop for family photos. Choose your favorite and take pictures…try to remember to do this annually and watch as your children grow.

Taste your first ice cream cone.

We love the homemade waffle cones and creative flavors at Betty Rae’s in Waldo, the classic atmosphere at Sylas & Maddy’s in Olathe, the old-fashioned style of Poppy’s in Lee’s Summit and the fun of Freezing Moo (multiple locations). You’ll find more great ice cream choices when you search “Best Ice Cream” on KCParent.com.

Meet animals on a nature walk.

Lakeside Nature Center (4701 E. Gregory Blvd., Kansas City, MO) is home to falcons, owls, eagles, toads, frogs, fish and insects. Burr Oak Woods Nature Center (1401 NW Park Rd., Blue Springs, MO) features fish tanks, turtles, bird watching, a giant indoor nature play area, walking trails and an outdoor discovery center. Ernie Miller Nature Center (909 Kansas Hwy. 7, Olathe, KS) has paved trails through the woods; this a great place for a stroller walk.

Splash at a sprayground.

Kansas City is home to many wonderful spraygrounds—water playgrounds where tots can play and splash on a hot summer’s day.

Check out our online guide to “Kansas City’s Spraygrounds” to find one near you. Our top pick is John Anderson Park (4701 E. 135th St., Grandview, MO), with a great nautical theme and adjacent dry playground.

Stop and smell the roses at Loose Park.

Perhaps the most beautiful park in Kansas City, Loose Park (51st & Wornall, Kansas City, MO) is home to an amazing rose garden, fountains, ponds and trails for beautiful photo ops, plus a playground and sprayground for fun.

Taste new foods at the farmers market.

Farmers markets are a summer delight with fresh seasonal produce and tasty treats for sale. Many vendors offer samples so you can try it before you buy it. You’ll find a complete guide to Kansas City’s Farmers Markets on KCParent.com.

Pick berries.

Kansas City is home to many u-pick farms, and you’ll find a complete guide on KCParent.com. Enjoy strawberries, blueberries, raspberries and other fresh fruits. Many of the u-pick farms offer picnic areas and play areas to enjoy. You’ll find fun photo ops and tasty treats on this outing.

Cheer for the Kansas City Royals.

When children attend their first Kansas City Royals game (KCRoyals.com), you may take them to guest services where they are awarded a first game certificate for the scrapbook.

Kristina Light’s family makes it a summer tradition to build sandcastles at the lake.

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KC PARENT FAMILY For 33 years, KC Parent has been putting helpful information in the hands of our readers. After tabulating thousands of votes, we are pleased to announce each business that has been chosen as a KC Parent Family Favorite 2018! Winners are listed in alphabetical order. There are multiple winners in each category.

2018 WINNER

family faves

MEDICAL CATEGORIES Favorite OB/GYN Practice Johnson County OB/GYN Specialists in Women’s Care Women’s Health Associates

Favorite Pediatrician Practice Pediatric Care North Premier Pediatrics Priority Care Pediatrics

Favorite Dental Practice Jenkins & LeBlanc Pediatric Dental Specialists Starting Point Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics

Favorite Orthodontist Burleson Orthodontics Fry Orthodontic Specialists Hansen Orthodontic Specialists

Favorite Place to Have a Baby-MO Centerpoint Medical Center Saint Luke’s North Hospital-Barry Road

Favorite Place to Have a Baby-KS Olathe Medical Center Overland Park Regional Medical Center

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Favorite Emergency Room/Urgent Care Centra Care – Shawnee Mission Urgent Care Children’s Mercy Hospital OPRMC Pediatric ER

KANSAS CITY AREA ATTRACTIONS Favorite Animal Attraction Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead Kansas City Zoo Sea Life Aquarium

Favorite Garden and/or Nature Center Kauffman Memorial Garden Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens Powell Gardens

Favorite Museum National Museum of Toys and Miniatures National World War I Museum and Memorial Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art

Favorite Live Show The Coterie Johnson County Community College Carlsen Center Starlight Theatre

Favorite Festivals & Fairs Celebration at the Station Jazzoo Old Shawnee Days

FAVORITES 2018 Favorite FREE Attraction

Favorite Gymnastics

Crown Center Seasonal Exhibits KC Streetcar Mahaffie Summer Family Nights

The Gage Center Integrity Gymnastics McCracken Gymnastics and Swim School

Best-Kept Secret

Favorite Drama/Theater

Berkley Riverfront Park Richard Petty Driving Experience Shoal Creek Living History Museum

Christian Youth Theatre The Culture House Kansas City Young Audiences

Favorite NEW Place in KC

Favorite Educational Enrichment

Lenexa Public Market Variety KC Exploration Play Weston Orchard & Vineyard

Code Ninjas Mathnasium Sylvan Learning Centers

Favorite Outdoor Family Destination

Favorite Martial Arts

Kansas City Zoo Theatre in the Park Worlds of Fun/Oceans of Fun

AKKA Karate Kids 2 Leaders Martial Arts Tiger Rock Martial Arts

Favorite Indoor Family Destination

Favorite Swim Lessons

Legoland Discovery Center/Sea Life Paradise Park Science City

Emler Swim School Jewish Community Center Midwest Aquatics Swim & Scuba

Favorite Place to have a Birthday Party Paint, Glaze & Fire Paradise Park Urban Air

Favorite Party That Comes to You Movies2U Princess at My Party Sister Act Face Painting

Favorite Shopping District Legends Outlets Oak Park Mall Summit Fair

Favorite Moms Night Out Ceramic Café Holy-Field Winery West Bottoms

FAMILY DINING Favorite Pizza Place Minsky’s Pie Five Spin Pizza

Favorite Kid-Friendly Restaurant BRGR Fritz’s Zaxby’s

Favorite Ice Cream/Frozen Treat Shop Betty Rae’s Ice Cream Freezing Moo Sheridan’s

Favorite Grocery Store

PROGRAMS & CLASSES

Hen House Hy-Vee Price Chopper

Favorite Dance

Favorite Date Night

The Culture House Kansas City Ballet School Miller Marley

Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Blade & Timber The Roasterie

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pregnancy cravings

managing cravings during pregnancy can be a fun, creative process

y

ou’re pregnant! Everything you have dreamed about is soon to happen, including feelings and emotions that trigger all sorts of cravings as this tiny miracle grows and thrives. You’ll feel better knowing that you are by no means alone in your palatal craziness. In fact, nearly 90 percent of women experience cravings during pregnancy.

Personally, I lived on pancakes, grape Popsicles, mashed potatoes from KFC and vanilla malts from Winstead’s! Once, I even ate an entire can of green beans straight from the can—which did not have nice consequences later.

Are you craving olives in ice cream or sauerkraut in cottage cheese? Don’t worry!

Many believe eating lots of different foods assures your growing baby receives a wide variety of beneficial nutrients. So mix, dunk and crunch away! Some cravings actually stem from your body’s needing specific nutrients.

Sweets and chocolate are other fulfilling favorites for mamas. One old wives’ tale even suggests that the more sweets you crave, the bigger the chance you’ll have a girl. Concerned about calories? Consider a glass of juice or piece of sweet fruit, such as watermelon or some grapes. These natural sweets are cool and delightful and also provide you and your little one a dose of vitamin C. Make sure you aren’t in danger of gestational diabetes if you simply can’t get enough sugar.

Spicy foods are a good way to cool the body, strangely enough, because consuming them makes you sweat. And then there are those infamous pickles, combined with everything from ice cream to peanut butter. Because they are low in calories and inexpensive, crunching away is ideal! Pickle cravings are probably actually vinegar cravings.

You might want to try unfiltered apple cider vinegar mixed with seltzer for a tasty treat.

Morning sickness often can be calmed with fizzy drinks, as carbonation helps settle queasiness. Ginger ale or Sprite are great decaf choices.

Your taste buds literally change during pregnancy, which is why foods you would never normally eat sound awesome, like raw lemons and very spicy foods. Feel free to shock those tasters with strong flavors and satisfy your hunger!

We can give credit to our emotions for other pregnancy cravings. That desire to mix up a batch of homemade biscuits like your grandmother made or a special dish you recall from childhood holidays is a comforting way to make yourself happy. Let’s face it, being pregnant can make us weepy, and these foods recall cozy, calm memories.

One word of caution: If you find yourself craving substances such as chalk, dirt or other nonfood items, contact your doctor. This condition is called pica and can be dangerous as it is thought to indicate iron deficiency.

An avid outdoors girl, Judy Goppert lives in Lee’s Summit and enjoys all seasons, especially summer. 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.

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>> SUMMER 2018 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 Open Jump Daily Urban Air in 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

Splash with Me Lenexa Rec Center.

Kids can swim, play and become more confident in the water at the Lenexa Rec Center’s kiddie pool. Children who are not potty trained must wear a swim diaper and swimsuit. Adult supervision is required. Lenexa.com

Indoor Playtime Jump City in 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 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

THURSDAY

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

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

Dollar Bowling 3:00-9:00, Aaron’s

FRIDAY

Family Entertainment Center (Belton). $1 games, $1 shoe rental and more.

AaronsFEC.com

TUESDAY 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 Creative Storytime Tue & Fri, 10:30, Ceramic Café. Enjoy a book, then the kids get to paint a ceramic item that goes along with the story and finish with a snack. $12+tax/child.

CeramicCafeKC.com Tots on Tuesday Third Tuesday of each month, 10:30-11:30, Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art. Dress up, play color-matching games, try on crazy hats and read stories with a trendy twist.

816.753.5784, KemperArt.org

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

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 infant-friendly, mini museum tour. Free. Nelson-Atkins.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 Weekend Family Activities 1:00-4:00, Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. 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 Saturday Morning Nature Program 10:00-10:30, Prairie Park Nature Center.

Programs may include a short video, slide show and, of course, going outdoors to enjoy birds, wildflowers, bugs or a stroll through the park. LawrenceKS.org kcparent.com july-september 2018

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>> SUMMER 2018 CALENDAR

Visit KCParent.com and search “Favorite Dates” for even more ideas!

parents night out

Kansas City’s Big Picnic at Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art Third Thursdays at the Nelson Monthly, Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, NelsonAtkins.org. Join the revelry every third Thursday of the month for live music, free programs, art activities and more that showcase local talents…all just for adults!

Friday Sounds on the Square Every Friday, 7:00, at Linden Square, Gladstone, MO, LindenSquare.info/ events. Enjoy free outdoor concerts.

Patrons are encouraged to bring a blanket or lawn chair for seating.

Fourth Friday Art Walk in Downtown Lee’s Summit Monthly April-August, DowntownLS.org. Fourth Friday Art Walks in Downtown Lee’s Summit are packed with a variety of activities, including artist receptions, artist showcases, Music in the Park at Howard Station Park, street theater, Yoga in the Streets and even some surprises!

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kcparent.com july-september 2018

Much Ado About Nothing June 12-July 1 at Southmoreland Park, 4600 Oak St., Kansas City, MO, KCShakes.com. The action of Much Ado About Nothing occurs during several days of a visit by Don Pedro, Prince of Aragon, and his followers at the large estate of Leonato, governor of Messina. Don Pedro has been victorious in a small war against his own half-brother, Don John, who now (reluctantly) joins him.

Kansas City’s Big Picnic July 22 at Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, 4525 Oak St., Kansas City, MO, Nelson-Atkins. org. Enjoy art activities, live music, food trucks and games throughout the Big Picnic. Pack your own picnic or grab dinner from an on-site food truck!

Rock & Food Trucks Festival: Topeka July 28 at Downtown Topeka, 9th & Kansas Avenue, Topeka, KS, VisitTopeka.com. The 2018 Music &

Food Truck Festival Series features three different concerts for music and food truck lovers in the Midwest. Choose tasty eats from food trucks before claiming a spot in front of some of your favorite bands.

The Great Car Show July 29 at National World War I Museum and Memorial, 2 Memorial Dr., Kansas City, MO, TheGreatCarShow.com. The event includes music, ride-alongs, food trucks, educational displays, pinstriping demonstrations, reserved space for car clubs and discounted admission to the National World War I Museum and Memorial.

Ethnic Enrichment Festival Aug. 16-19 at Swope Park, Meyer Boulevard & Swope Parkway, Kansas City, MO, 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.

celebrating locally-sourced food made

by Kansas City chefs, beer from local breweries and creative and enticing silent auction items.

KC Improv Festival Aug. 16-19 & 23-26 at Kick Comedy Theater, 4010 Pennsylvania Ave., Kansas City, MO, KCImprovFestival.com. One of the longest-running, friendliest, funniest and most fun improv comedy festivals in the nation.

Oktoberfest Sept. 28-29, Downtown Lee’s Summit, LSOktoberfest.com.

Enjoy German meals, two stages of entertainment, German dancers, carnival, biergarten, contests, arts and crafts booths and more!

Arcades Go retro with a night on the India Fest Aug. 26 at Overland Park Convention Center, 6000 College Blvd., Overland Park, KS, IAKC.org.

The festival offers an opportunity for guests to explore the art and customs of India and features authentic cuisine, traditional clothing, henna and numerous vendors.

town at a local arcade. Draftcade (Draftcade.com) offers a full-service bar with food items and more than 70 arcade games. Tapcade (Screenland. com/tapcade-at-crossroads) is a restaurant and bar with arcade games for adults. And, Up-Down KC (UpDownKC.com) is an arcade and bar with a retro vibe for adults.

Gardens at Sunset Sept. 8 at KC Community Gardens, KCCG.org/ GardensAtSunset. Set in the wonderfilled Leanna Flandermeyer Beanstalk Children’s Garden, Gardens at Sunset is a unique and beautiful evening

A Night of Painting Visit a paint-yourown canvas shop at various locations (search “Creative Canvas Shops” on KCParent.com for a complete guide).

BYOB painting classes and studios have

popped up around town offering the perfect chance to get those creative juices flowing and do something out of the ordinary! Check shop calendars for a variety of canvas paintings and select an evening to learn how to complete your own masterpiece.

Escape! A hot trend in entertainment is a game where you and your partner (or small group) collaborate a break out from an interactive escape room while cracking codes and solving puzzles. Tick Tock Escape Games (TickTockEscapeGames.com) in Overland Park is one of the newest, and best, local escape rooms.

First Fridays in the Crossroads First Friday of every month, Crossroads Arts District, KCCrossroads.org/first-fridays.

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. Most make it an evening, with dinner and drinks from a colorful array of restaurants and entertainment venues.

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bellylaughs

Since having a baby, I’ve learned I can crack eggs with just one hand.

– Anjanette

We asked KC Parent’s 53,000+ Facebook fans:

Since having a baby, I’ve learned I can ________ with just one hand.

Audra: do everything!

Allison: go to the bathroom Amanda: get dressed Aileen: check my phone and Facebook Erin: pick up toys Shonda: make a bottle Lauren: change a diaper Anjanette: crack eggs Callista: unscrew a lid Vicky: fold the laundry Tricia: clean up spilled milk Francie: vacuum Mary: wrap a present Jean: feed the dog Tammy: give the other kid a bath Fran: scoop ice cream Lilly: eat a bag of chips Lynne: drink a cup of coffee Kristi: make the bed

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kcparent.com july-september 2018

Explore

Kansas City Zoo 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!

STINGRAY BAY

–STINGRAY & SHARK TOUCH TANK–

NOW OPEN!

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

For this face.

The Birth Place.

Exceptional medical care. Unforgettable experience.

Be comfortable and confident on your big day. The Birth Place’s outstanding medical team includes 20 board-certified Doctors Who Deliver, dedicated nurses and a NICU staff specially trained in the care of newborns at risk or experiencing difficulties after delivery.

And you’ll appreciate comforts that feel more like a 5-star hotel than a hospital, including floor-to-ceiling windows, queen-sized beds, whirlpool tubs and a quiet floor just for recovering mothers.

Take a virtual tour and meet our Doctors Who Deliver.

913-791-4396 olathehealth.org/birthplace