KC Parent Magazine January 2017 by KC Parent Magazine

FREE | January 2017 | KCParent.com | Since 1985

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HACK your home

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NEW YEAR NEW YOU!

MORE THAN 30 SHOWS INCLUDING ODD SQUAD LIVE! FEBRUARY 28

TRIPLETS OF BELLEVILLE MARCH 3

PARAGON RAGTIME ORCHESTRA

JOHNSON COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE

MARCH 31

2016 – 2017 PERFORMING ARTS SERIES

EVERYBODY’S HERO: THE JACKIE ROBINSON STORY 7:30 P.M. FRIDAY, JANUARY 27

Tickets on sale now!

jccc.edu/TheSeries | 913-469-4445 NO ONLINE FEES | FREE PARKING | WINE & BEER AVAILABLE

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SPRING 2017

Photography: Brett Pruitt & East Market Studios

ENHANCE POISE, FOCUS AND RHYTHM IN YOUR CHILD WITH EXCELLENT STARTER CLASSES IN: • Creative Movement ages 3-5 • Boys on the Move ages 3-5 • Fundamental of Dance ages 5-6 • Pre-Ballet ages 6-7

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DAYTIME & AFTERNOON ACADEMY PROGRAMS AVAILABLE CLASSES FOR CHILDREN AGES 3-18 kcparent.com january 2017

Here For Your Family’s Health, On and Off the Field.

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Get creative at the

Nerman Museum! Contemporary Creations classes (ages 8-11) and Early Explorations classes (ages 5-7) combine engaging, interactive tours with hands-on studio projects, and students explore different topics each week. Pre-registration is required.

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Saturdays, Jan. 28 – April 22 10 a.m. – noon or 2 p.m.-4 p.m. $15 / $10 for Museum Members Register through JCCC Continuing Education. 913-469-2323 • www.jccc.edu/youth

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(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 january 2017

JAN 2017

DEPARTMENTS 10 Media Mix 16 Women’s Health 17 Healthy Kids 23 Faith & Family

WINTER FUN GUIDE, PGS. 44-53

45 Word from Dad 48 Craft Corner

SPECIAL SECTIONS

FEATURES

26 Party Guide 44 Winter Fun Guide 54 Calendar of Events

20 Only Child Raising a happy and well-rounded only child

Single Income

Ready for a Pet?

Surviving and thriving on a single-income budget

Deciding whether your family is ready

Our cover features Jackson from Lenexa. Cover and select interior photos by KiaBondurant.com. FREE | January 2017 | KCParent.com | Since 1985

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ON THE COVER

kcparent.com january 2017

New Year, New You

Birthday Party Guide

Hack Your Home

Winter Fun Guide

birthday party guide make your child’s next birthday

the

BLAHS

with

PAGES OF WINTER FUN!

AWESOME

HACK your home

tips to tame the chaos

NEW YEAR NEW YOU!

Foster parents needed! Help children who have experienced abuse, neglect or other family challenges Do I qualify to be a foster parent? All kinds of people can qualify to foster a child. Whether you are single or married, own or rent your home, have children already or don’t, work full-time or stay home, you may be eligible.

How will I handle saying goodbye to the child if and when it’s safe for them to go home? This is no doubt difficult, but any sadness is outweighed by the safety and love you will give to a child during a time of crisis. Plus, you’re encouraged to maintain life-long connections with the child and family. Thousands of children in the Kansas City area are in need of caring foster families. If not you, then who?

(888) 655-5500 | www.kvckansas.org

kcparent.com january 2017

EDITOR’SLETTER JANUARY 2017

Associate Publisher Darrell Dean Darrell@KCParent.com Editor Margaret Sarver Margaret@KCParent.com Art Director Kim Tappan Tappan Design Kim@KCParent.com Advertising Sales Darrell Dean Advertising@KCParent.com Electronic Media Manager Kristina Light Kristina@KCParent.com Event Calendar Susan Lynn Calendar@KCParent.com Copy Editor Susan Crainshaw Susan@KCParent.com Distribution To be added to our distribution list, e-mail Distribution@KCParent.com Local Contributing Writers

Kim Antisdel (Liberty), Bill Bartlett (Belton), Julie Collett (Overland Park), Lauren Greenlee (Olathe), Jessica Heine (Olathe), Christa Hines (Olathe), Karen Johnson (Olathe), Erin Jones (Overland Park), Megan Kapple (Kansas City), Gina Klein (Kansas City), Kristina Light (Kansas City), Laura McEachen (Overland Park), C. Alex Merrill (Lawrence), Jena Meyerpeter (Lenexa), Katie Newell (Shawnee)

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

Margaret Sarver, Editor

baby& 15

fall/winter 2016-17

KC B A

kansas city’s #1 travel guide since 2010

FREE | January 2017 | KCParent.com | Since 1985

MATERNI T Y YE A R S

2 00 2

maternity

JAN-MARCH 2017 | KCPARENT.COM

BEAT

birthday party guide make your child’s next birthday

the

BLAHS

with

PAGES OF WINTER FUN!

AWESOME

What Makes

Kc cOOL? 500+ WaYS

tO eXPerIeNce It

everything pregnancy issue

Scavenger Hunt MeGa-FUN

Kc BucKet LISt

best apps

it’s our birthday! CELEBRATING 15 YEARS OF KC BABY & MATERNITY!

why full term matters healthy eating tips

FaVOrIte FeStS UNIQUe SOUVeNIrS

your home

tips to tame the chaos

the

Streetcar

+ HACK

NEW YEAR

cheap

WINTER FUN

NEW YOU!

.com

for tiny tots

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

Member of:

LOCAL CONTENT

Stay warm during this cold winter month, Kansas City!

Publisher Michael Gimotty Michael@KCParent.com

G A Z I NE MA

appy New Year! I trust you had a nice holiday with your family. I don’t know about you, but I am looking forward to some quieter days in January. We could use some downtime in the Sarver home. Growing up, we didn’t have pets. (Well, my mom always had a bird, but I don’t really count that.) Because I hadn’t been around dogs and cats as a child, I didn’t consider myself a pet person. Wouldn’t you know I gave birth to two girls who consider themselves pet people? And I married a guy who grew up with dogs. You can see where this is going. For years I held out on getting a dog. My younger pleaded and begged and researched and wrote me letters. I thought about it and, in the end, decided I loved my kids more than I disliked dogs. After a little more than a year of dog ownership, I guess you could now call me a pet person. Is your family ready to take the pet plunge? Turn to pg. 36 to find out whether you’re ready for a pet. Happy birthday! Did you know that our sister publication KC Baby & Maternity is celebrating a birthday this year? It’s had 15 years as the ONLY local magazine focused on pregnant moms and new babies. In addition, this issue of KC Parent features our birthday party guide: tons of great local resources to help you plan your next party. Check it out, starting on pg. 26. And be sure to visit the digital party guide on KCParent.com with photos, videos and more!

Circulation verified by:

Kansas City Parent Magazine is published 12 times a year by Family Media Group. It is distributed free of charge throughout the Kansas City area. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect KC Parent’s opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written permission. Kansas City Parent Magazine does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. All photography and letters sent to KC Parent will be treated unconditionally assigned for publication and copyright purposes and are subject to unrestricted right to edit and comment editorially. KC Parent often includes websites that may be helpful to our readers. We verify each site prior to publication. However, content changes frequently. We encourage you to use caution and discretion when visiting a website.

Postmaster, please send changes to KC Parent, 8691 W. 96th St, Ste 1B, Overland Park, KS 66212.

kcparent.com january 2017

KCPARENTONLINE

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

SEARCH KCPARENT.COM FOR OUR TOP 10 LISTS OF FUN IDEAS: 1. Best of January 2. Cabin Fever Busters

YEAR OF THE ROOSTER

3. Chinese New Year 4. Free & Cheap Indoor Fun 5. Best Museums for Winter Fun

SPOTLIGHT

WINTER RECIPES Will we have lots of snow? When it does snow, check out KCParent.com for a great snow ice cream recipe. And for ways to fancy up your hot chocolate after a day out in the cold, log onto KCParent.com

6. Family Game Night 7. Complete KC Calendar of Events 8. Going Places Guide

#KCParentConte

GIVEAWAYS

WIN LOTS OF FUN STUFF Follow KC Parent on Facebook for your chance to win tickets to Monster Jam at the Sprint Center on Feb. 3-5.

9. Summer Fun in Winter 10. Best Sled Hills SAVE $10 on Adult Tickets! Restrictions and exclusions may apply. See savings coupon for details.

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4 MORE WAYS TO STAY CONNECTED

Like us on Facebook facebook.com/KansasCityParent Repin us on Pinterest // Follow us on Twitter @KCParent // Subscribe to our FREE e-newsletter at KCParent.com

kcparent.com january 2017

MEDIAMIX

everything is new the new year brings tales of new beginnings and adventure By McGeath Freeman

The Littlest Family’s Big Day

Who Wants a Tortoise?

Marvin and the Moths

By Dave Keane

By Emily Winifield Martin

Illustrated by K.G. Campbell

By Matthew Holm and Jonathan Follet

Best for: Ages 3-7

Best for: Ages 4-8

peacefully encourage wonder.

After begging for a puppy for her birthday, a young girl is disappointed to receive a tortoise instead. Dogs do so much–pant, howl, bark–and tortoises don’t. All they do is “hiss as they pull their heads in.” A tortoise is not what she wanted, but bit by bit, the little girl comes to learn about her new pet. The more she learns the more she becomes emotionally attached. She even takes her tortoise to “sharing day” at school. When her tortoise gets lost, you can tell she loves her missing pet. Don’t worry. It all ends well. Campbell’s watercolor and colored pencil illustrations capture the little girl’s many moods with a delicate and deft touch. The illustrations are lively and engaging yet offer a calming influence that makes this a good book for group story time or bedtime reading.

What’s bad: Cynics will wonder why

What’s good: Great message about

The world is full of wonder–all you have to do is wander to discover it. When a family of tiny bears moves into their new tree in a big woods, they decide to take a “wander” through their new neighborhood. It turns into a magical adventure filled with new friends, fairies, gnomes and benevolent creatures galore. The text is alliterative and lyrical, using creative word choices to bolster the pastoral illustrations. Wander instead of adventure is a prime example that connotes a meandering adventure of wonder. This is a wonderful choice for classroom story time or family reading before bedtime.

What’s good: Detailed illustrations that

the giant owl doesn’t eat the littlest family.

finding the good in your situation.

What’s bad: Not much. It’s a charming story.

kcparent.com january 2017

Best for: Ages 8-12

Middle school is tough. When you split your pants on the first day of class, it doesn’t get any easier. Marvin, the titular character, also has to deal with an impending baby brother. His life is in turmoil when Marvin’s parents move him upstairs to the unfinished attic to make room for his little brother. Then Marvin wakes up to find three very large and talkative moths in the attic. As the story progresses, so do the humorous situations, as a giant Shakespeare-quoting spider begins harassing his town. It’s up to Marvin to save the day.

What’s good: Loaded with humor and excitement. What’s bad: Marvin isn’t all that likable.

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 Owner John P. Roth DDS and family Specialist in Pediatric Dentistry Specialist in Orthodontics

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Pizza Shoppe is always a big hit with fans. Many of our 17 KC-area locations have a party room available for team parties, office gatherings, fantasy drafts and other important events. So come in and catch a game – we've always got great seats!

www.pizzashoppe.com *Valid only on Tuesdays at participating Pizza Shoppe locations.

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SMART START breakfast recipes for a healthy New Year (Family Features) A commitment to health and wellness means taking care of yourself and your family, exercising and eating right. The new year is the perfect time to refocus your goals and make better health a priority. A nutrient-rich breakfast can set you up for success each and every day. Dairy foods like milk, cheese and yogurt are good sources of high-quality protein, which is an essential part of a healthy diet. Protein serves as the building block for cells throughout the body and may aid in managing weight by helping you feel full. By adding protein to your day, you can achieve health and wellness goals more easily. Daily protein needs should be met by spreading intake throughout the day in every meal and snack you eat. Not only does protein help satisfy hunger, which may aid in weight management, but it also helps preserve muscle. No matter your breakfast style, dairy foods can enhance your dish. These recipes show how, from sweet to savory and cold to hot, your breakfast can be unique while providing high quality nutrition in each bite. Learn more about the role of dairy in a healthy diet at MilkMeansMore.org.

kcparent.com january 2017

white pizza frittata

blueberry buckwheat pancakes

Recipe created by Rachel Cooks on behalf of Milk Means More

Recipe created by the Chef Next Door on behalf of Milk Means More

Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 35 minutes Servings: 8

Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time: 15 minutes Servings: 4

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

3/4 cup buckwheat flour

3/4

cup all-purpose flour

12 ounces frozen spinach, thawed and water pressed out

large clove garlic, minced

tablespoons sugar

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

large eggs

1/4 cup skim milk 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano leaves 3/4 cup part-skim ricotta cheese 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese 1/4 cup minced fresh basil 1/2 cup shredded, part-skim mozzarella cheese Heat oven to 325 F. In oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook 2 minutes, or until fragrant. Once garlic is fragrant, add spinach; break up to incorporate and heat. In medium bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, pepper, oregano, ricotta, Parmesan and basil. Add egg mixture to skillet, reduce heat to low and cook 1 minute, stirring gently. Move to oven and bake 25-30 minutes, or until eggs are almost completely set. Carefully remove from oven and add mozzarella. Return to oven and bake until mozzarella is melted, about 5 minutes. May be served hot, at room temperature or cold.

1-1/2 teaspoons baking powder 1/2 teaspoon salt 2

eggs

1-3/4 cups lactose-free, 2 percent milk 2

tablespoons vegetable oil

teaspoon pure vanilla extract

2 cups fresh blueberries, plus additional for topping (optional)

syrup (optional)

In large bowl, whisk together flours, sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salt. In small bowl, beat eggs then add milk, oil and vanilla; mix well. Stir wet ingredients into dry ingredients and mix to combine. Heat griddle or large skillet over medium heat. Using 1/4 measuring cup, pour batter onto griddle. Gently place several blueberries all over surface of pancakes. Flip pancakes when bubbles start to form around edges and bottoms are golden brown. Cook on other side until golden brown, about 2 minutes. Remove to plate and cover to keep warm. Top pancakes with additional blueberries and syrup before serving, if desired.

1-1/2 teaspoons light olive oil 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chiles 1/4 teaspoon chipotle chili powder 2 eggs kosher salt black pepper 1/4 cup sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated

huevos rancheros oats Recipe created by Comfortably Domestic on behalf of Milk Means More Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time: 15 minutes Servings: 2 Oats 1 3/4 1/8 1

cup 2 percent milk cup water teaspoon salt cup old-fashioned oats

Huevos Rancheros 1/2 cup sweet onion, peeled and chopped

Divide oats evenly between two bowls. Spoon eggs and salsa over oats. Serve immediately with cheddar cheese.

ricotta and fig oatmeal Recipe created by Foxes Love Lemons on behalf of Milk Means More

In medium saucepan over medium-high heat, bring milk, water and salt to boil. Stir in oats. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer oats, stirring occasionally, 4 minutes. Remove oats from heat and place lid on saucepan. Set aside. In nonstick skillet over medium heat, saute onion in olive oil until soft, about 4 minutes. Stir canned tomatoes with green chiles and chipotle chili powder into onions to combine. Continue to heat salsa to boil, about 1 minute. Make two wells in middle of tomato salsa. Crack eggs into wells. Season eggs with salt and pepper, to taste. Cover skillet and poach eggs in salsa to desired doneness; about 3-4 minutes.

Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time: 3 minutes Servings: 1 3/4 cup milk 1/2 cup old-fashioned rolled oats 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt 2 tablespoons ricotta cheese 2 dried figs, halved 1 tablespoon sliced almonds 1 tablespoon honey In microwave-safe bowl, stir together milk, oats and salt. Microwave on high 2 1/2 minutes, or until oats are tender and most liquid is absorbed. Remove bowl from microwave; stir in ricotta. To serve, top with figs and almonds, and drizzle with honey. Source: United Dairy Industry of Michigan

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family

RULeS everyone

can follow

Mom and Dad are the bosses, but everyone has a say in the house rules.

Rules, Rules, Rules. Your kids don’t like them, but what they don’t realize is they need them! Kids need structure. They need to know what’s expected and what will happen if those expectations aren’t met. Their world is full of rules—rules at school, at their future jobs and out in society. As their parents, you are helping them develop into responsible law-abiding

For great ways to improve family time in your home, log onto KCParent.com.

kcparent.com january 2017

citizens if they understand a few basic, fair rules at home. Here are some suggestions for a list of family house rules—and yes, they are for everyone, even Mom and Dad!

Respect one another. This rule covers quite a bit, such as the importance of using kind words. No insulting or putting each other down. Use manners and be kind. Also, family members should respect each other’s property, personal space and privacy. This helps your son remember he cannot borrow his older brother’s toy without asking. And if he is given permission, he should take care of it and return it. Kids like having their own space and time to themselves. This should be respected as well.

A family is a team. This means you have each other’s backs. You help each other out. Your kids go to their siblings’ baseball games and piano recitals. They root each other on. Your older kids help hold their younger siblings’ hands while crossing the street. They know they need to set a good example. This rule also encompasses the difference between ratting a sibling out just to see him get into trouble and telling Mom and Dad something important they need to know. A family works together to keep one another safe.

Everyone pitches in. Mom’s not the maid. Put your dirty laundry in the hamper, shoes away and homework back into backpacks, and help with the dishes. Clean up your toys after playing. And help Mom and Dad rake the leaves and shovel snow. If you make a mess, clean it up. It’s that simple. No one plays or goes out with friends until the chores are done.

Tell the truth. This one is often tougher for Mom and Dad than it is for kids. It’s so important that your kids know from a very early age that they need to tell the truth, even if it’s scary—even if it means they might get into trouble. Because if Mom and Dad know the truth, and have all of the information, they are more equipped to keep the kid safe. Mom and Dad need to promise the kids they, too, will be truthful, even if it’s scary!

Safety first. Make your family’s safety rules applicable to the type of family you have and ages of your kids. Don’t run down the stairs. Wear seat belts. No texting and driving. Don’t hang stuff from the ceiling fan and turn it on. If you have a kindergartener, obviously this category of rules will evolve and change as she grows up and has more freedom.

Go to work every day and do your best. Whether your “job” is going to fifth grade every day or going to an office from 8:00 to 5:00, every family member has work to do. Everyone shows up ready, prepared, homework done. And everyone tries hard.

Everyone has a say. Mom and Dad are the bosses, but everyone has a say in the house rules. If your kids want something changed like having a later curfew, let them know they can come talk to you and explain their case. You, of course, have the final say, but it’s important that kids know they will be heard. This also applies to family decisions like what movie to watch or where to get takeout. If you do a fair rotation where everyone gets a chance to decide, your kids feel like their voices matter.

Commit to family time. Whatever time you set aside to reconnect as a family, whether it be Sundays after church or Friday movie nights, make sure everyone is present, physically and mentally. No friends over. Put phones down. Just enjoy each other. Play a board game, look at old photo albums or go out and get ice cream. Ask your kids about their day, their friends, the toughest math problem on yesterday’s test. Just talk to each other and connect. It’s a good idea to brainstorm and establish your family rules together. Make it a family activity, and once you’ve decided the best rules for your family, write them down—a simple list on notebook paper or a painted

mural. Either way, write them down and hang them up so you can all be reminded of the guidelines that will help your family. Create a family motto to write across the top. Ours is “Johnsons aren’t quitters!” Make sure everyone knows what consequences occur if they don’t follow the rules—and remember to follow through! Olathe mom Karen Johnson has three children, ages 6, 4 and 2. She writes at The21stCenturySAHM.com.

Q uiz: True or False? 1. Mom and Dad should make the rules and print them out, without their kids’ having a say. (FALSE) 2. The family list of rules is only applicable to the kids. (FALSE) 3. Your list of rules may evolve over time as your kids get older. (TRUE) 4. The world is full of rules, and it’s important that kids learn to respect them at home. (TRUE) 5. Kids should only have to do chores if they are going to get paid. (FALSE) 6. Having a rule about respect encompasses many things, such a speaking kindly, respecting privacy and not taking another person’s property without asking. (TRUE) 7. Teaching your kids that they have a “job” to do every day, starting at a young age, is beneficial. (TRUE) 8. Rules about safety aren’t necessary, as they will change when kids get older. (FALSE)

kcparent.com january 2017

WOMEN’SHEALTH

THE DIET THAT ACTUALLY WORKS

how apps are changing the way we eat

o your resolution fell through (again). You told yourself, I’ll do it this time. I’ll be fit and healthy. You went on Amazon, ordered a yoga mat and some loose-fitting clothes. A juicer too—you’ll start a cleanse. In six months, you’ll be free-climbing mountains... But somewhere along the line, something happened—family obligations, workload, general demotivation—and you stopped. It makes sense; you’re a full-time mom, after all. Months have passed, and your child needs less attention, but you still find it difficult to find the time and motivation to 1) develop and 2) maintain a fitness plan. Your friends might swear by commercial diets: Atkins, Weight Watchers or Jenny Craig. But diet is only one-third of the problem.

The key to success is to E.N.D. your habits.

Ladies, if you’re ready to make a change, consider a diet app!

EXERCISE

This isn’t a gimmick. These apps actually work. You just need to let them work for you (not work against them). When you white lie to your dietician at weigh-in, you’re cheating yourself and wasting your money. Think of an app as a tiny, non-judging personal assistant. Below are three of the most effective health and diet-related apps I’ve come across.

170+ video-instructed, equipment-free exercises to perform at home (like strength training and yoga) Cost: Free (*with upgrades for purchase)

MyFitnessPal (preferred!) Compatibility: Android, iOS Features: Calorie counting, exercise tracking,

If you’re ready to make some major life improvements, then consider doing research on health and diet apps. They are definitely worth using.

The hard truth is that an expensive “crash” diet plan will fail eventually if you don’t supplement with exercise.

NUTRITION I’m guilty of unconscious binge eating. I’ll finish off an Oreo box while watching Netflix. The sugar high junk food provides ends with its crash. Then you’re lethargic and sleepy. This is why people gain weight.

DIET When I say diet, I don’t mean the diet section in Hy-Vee or Price Chopper, where Slim4Life and Snack Wells live. Diet is meant to describe the act of controlling what you put into your body and how to utilize its nutritional benefits in fitness.

hydration reminders, community support forums, food diary with barcode scanner Cost: Free (*with upgrades for purchase)

Health (Mayo Clinic approved) Compatibility: iOS only Features: Advanced monitoring system (blood pressure, respiratory rate, stepcounter, sleep analysis, mindfulness breaks),

kcparent.com january 2017

comprehensive food diary, medical records storage (for doctor visits) and medical ID emergency notification alert Cost: Free

Sworkit Compatibility: Android, iOS Features: Strictly fitness-focused, provides

C. Alex Merrill is a freelance writer and habitual traveler from the Lawrence area. Weekend free time is dedicated to family, Moo Shu takeout and the calamitous booms of Doctor Who chase music. As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns.

HEALTHYKIDS

appendicitis: symptoms and treatment

tomachaches in little ones can be hard to decipher. Too many candies or sweets? A little bug that will pass in 24 hours? Or is it more serious and something that needs medical attention? Appendicitis is one of those illnesses whose symptoms are similar to a run-of-the-mill stomach bug but can be much more serious if not caught quickly. The appendix is a small organ attached to the large intestine on the lower right side of the abdomen. When the appendix is blocked it becomes inflamed. It can be blocked by stool, lymph node swelling or an infection. This blockage causes a growth of bacteria, and if not taken care of, the appendix can burst and release this bacteria into the abdomen, causing serious injury (KidsHealth.org). Appendicitis is the most common cause for emergency surgery in teens, affecting approximately 80,000 children every year (Parents.com), although it doesn’t often affect infants. The symptoms often mimic other abdominal issues and most often begin

Leigh’s School of Dance

as a mild fever and pain around the belly button. Over time, the pain worsens and moves to the lower right side of the belly. Other common symptoms include vomiting, nausea and loss of appetite. While a CT scan is the most accurate way to diagnose appendicitis, many doctors are hesitant to employ it because it involves radiation. An ultrasound is slightly less accurate but still commonly used to diagnose. The only way to treat appendicitis is surgery. Many times appendicitis is not actually diagnosed until the surgery to remove the organ. The goal is to remove the appendix before it bursts, giving the child an easy recovery and quick return home—usually within 24 hours of the surgery. If rupture has already occurred, the recovery takes longer and can have potential side effects. While in the hospital, the child will receive IV antibiotics to ward off any infections and will receive pain medication as well. Bowel function is also closely monitored, and the child

will probably have to start with liquids before he is able to move on to solid food. Rest is another important part of recovery (ClevelandClinic.org). While appendicitis is serious and can lead to many complications, the turn-around generally is short and recovery quick! Jessica Heine is a labor and delivery nurse. She lives in Olathe with her family. As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns.

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NEW YEAR, NEW YOU

2017 f

or many parents, the arrival of January can cause an array of emotions.

Excitement, but also fear,

frustration and regret. As we look back on the past year, many of us get frustrated that we didn’t accomplish all that we set out to

As we go into 2017, let’s make our biggest resolution to start small. Don’t try to improve every aspect of your life at once.

accomplish in 2016. We regret the “bad” or “lazy” mistakes we made, we lament the money wasted over an unused gym membership and we shame ourselves for indulging in the foods we love during the holiday season. Kansas City parents, this has got to stop.

kcparent.com january 2017

A few years back, I read a quote that changed the way I viewed life. It was by Tony Robbins and said, “Change happens when the pain of staying the same becomes too much to bear.” At that moment, I felt as though a weight was lifted off my shoulders. It was the weight of trying to do it all and to do it all perfectly. I realized the pain of not changing had, in fact, become too much to bear. Something needed to change. Namely, the goals and expectations I was setting for myself. In doing research for this article, I reached out to local professionals I respect for living a balanced lifestyle. I wanted to understand how they set resolutions and why. Interestingly, they all shared a very similar approach. Keep it small, keep your focus and be certain your goal is attainable, they all advise. As we start planning for the year ahead, let’s take down our unrealistic expectations and start small. Here’s some of what they had to say.

healthy doesn’t mean boring and bland. Zac

Ansaldo, NASM-certified personal trainer at Solution 1 Fitness in Lenexa, reminds us that “if your goal is to eat chicken and broccoli every day for the next two weeks, you will drive yourself crazy. We have an infinite source of information at our fingertips, so put it to good use. Cook something both healthy and delicious, something that the whole family will enjoy.” (Check out HealthnutFoodie.com for healthy, family-friendly recipes.)

make the focus on what you want to eat, not what you want to avoid. A few years ago, Darci Webster, Shawnee mom, made the goal to eat 10 different fruits and veggies each day in January. This way, she didn’t have much room left for junk.

make a realistic commitment to exercise.

Dawn Rattan, owner of EverFit in Shawnee (and busy mom to three), suggests signing up for group classes. This

will make you accountable to show up at a certain time and place. Rattan also suggests you make your goal just three classes a week. Saying that you’ll work out every day is setting yourself up for failure. Finally, get a friend. Exercise is always more fun with a friend.

reduce stress levels by sticking to one resolution at a time. Kelly LeCluyse, RN,

BSN and nurse manager of the GI lab in Shawnee Mission Medical Center, reminds us that stress negatively affects the body physically, as well as mentally. Kelly says that, in addition to setting just one goal at a time, making the goal attainable is also important. Her top suggestions, especially for people with digestive issues, is to omit sugar, abstain from alcohol or eat smaller portions. If someone is generally healthy, making just one change easily can reignite the spark to vibrant health.

drink more water. Research

suggests that up to 75 percent of Americans are chronically dehydrated. Being chronically dehydrated can cause bloating, a sluggish metabolism, premature skin aging and fatigue. If you are out and about and need to replenish, make a quick stop at any QuikTrip in the KC metro. You can refill your bottle for free, no purchase necessary. As we go into 2017, let’s make our biggest resolution to start small. Don’t try to improve every aspect of your life at once. Choose one small step, focus on it for 21 days and allow it to become a habit. Only then should you move on to the next. And please, remember, if you make a mistake, offer yourself the same grace and forgiveness you so easily offer your kids.

Shawnee mom Katie Newell is a certified nutrition coach with a passion for helping families become better. She is also a culinary instructor, cookbook author and mama to two sweet girls, ages 7 and 8. HealthnutFoodie.com.

For those of you who want to set a larger health goal this year, Ryan Bell, personal trainer at Fitness Alliance, offers these guidelines for setting yourself up for success. Set only one to two major goals and make them MEANINGFUL! Take one week to record exactly what you do each day and how long you do it. This will help you find where you’re wasting time. We know 20 percent of your work is driving 80 percent of your results. What systems can you put in place to do less of the 80 percent activity that isn’t generating results and more of the 20 percent activity that is? Have exercise misconceptions prevented you from starting an exercise program? Let’s clear up the confusion! These exercise tips will improve your workout routine, help keep you injury free and produce faster and better results.

• ALL exercise comes down to two

things: joint mechanics and forces.

• ALL exercises have risk and

benefit. It’s the application and implementation and appropriateness to your goals, capabilities and limitations that matter.

• Don’t violate ranges of motion. The

body has not changed for thousands of years, nor has its structure.

• Find your why. Goals should always

have a deadline and an emotional tie.

“As a husband and a dad of a 3-yearold, plus a new baby on the way this month, I know time management is crucial to your success. Family time is always very important, but if you’re like me, you want to set a good example to your kids!” Bell says. “I often have my daughter do squats and planks, jog in place or do jumping jacks alongside me, with me, to teach her the importance of health. Kids love to move, and we all enjoy the time together.” As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns.

kcparent.com january 2017

No siblings, No problem! raising a happy only child Parenting an only child comes with plenty of perks. Just ask Hope Austin. She has plenty of time and energy to play with her 3-year-old daughter, Grace, she isn’t drowning in childcare expenses and she knows Grace will have more money for college. But that doesn’t mean raising a singleton is easy. “With the cost of childcare and the fact that I’m about to go back to school, I just don’t know if I can give her a sibling. But I wonder if I’m doing the right thing,” Austin says.

kcparent.com january 2017

Increasingly, researchers say that she is. Like Austin, many of today’s parents are opting for just one child, and new research is challenging long-held assumptions that siblings are a must for a happy childhood. In fact, some researchers and authors are making a convincing case that only children may have an edge over kids with siblings in some areas—academics, for example. In her 2011 book The Case for the Only Child, social psychologist and author Susan Newman, PhD, writes that many women are having children later in life, and more and more families are concerned about the cost of raising children. With these demographic and economic trends dovetailing with research showing that only children aren’t disadvantaged at all, understanding why single-child families are growing at a faster rate than families with more than one child is easy, Newman says.

downsizing the family The iconic image of two parents surrounded by two or three rosy-cheeked children is dated—and quickly disappearing, says Newman. Until 1967, more than twothirds of Americans preferred a family of three or more children, but in a 2007 Gallup poll, half of Americans said the ideal family contains one, two or no children. According to government reports, America’s birth rate declined from its 1957 peak of 3.7 children per woman to 1.9 children per woman in 1980. Today, the number of children per family hovers at 1.88, and more than 20 percent of women have only one child.

a singular advantage? A century after iconic psychologist G. Stanley Hall famously proclaimed that being an only child is “a disease in itself,” researchers are discovering the opposite effect. Hundreds of studies show that only children are socially capable and academically adept. One researcher making a strong case for only children is Douglas Downey of Ohio State University. His recent study of 13,500 kids found that any difference in social competence between only children and those with siblings disappears by adolescence. By grade seven, only children were just as popular as their peers with siblings.

In another study, Downey found that only children have an academic edge over their peers with siblings. He collected data from 24,599 eighth graders and found having more siblings lowers academic success. As family size increases, each child receives less parental attention and fewer educational resources. And adult only children fare just fine, according to California State University assistant professor Heidi Riggio. She found that adult singletons make friends just as easily and display similar social traits as adults who grew up with siblings. According to Jeffrey Kluger, TIME magazine contributor and author of The Sibling Effect: What the Bonds Among Brothers and Sisters Reveal About Us, only children have some key advantages over children with siblings. “Only children tend to wind up with better vocabulary and a more sophisticated sense of humor, simply because they grow up in a house outnumbered by parents,” he says.

skill-building for singletons Although only children enjoy some advantages, Downey’s research shows that young only children lag slightly in some areas of social development, though the gap disappears later on. Only children have fewer opportunities to practice key social skills like negotiation and sharing, simply because they aren’t living with other children. According to Seattle-area child and adolescent therapist Kyle Good, PhD, MEd, conflict is the key to social learning for only children. “Parents often shy away from conflict and want to avoid it,” says Good. “But conflict can be a valuable teaching tool.” Parents can create learning opportunities by allowing only children to observe parents’ resolving minor conflicts. Singletons can gain some of the skills children learn from having siblings— including negotiation and joint problemsolving—by developing close relationships with friends and cousins. Childcare also can serve to boost socialization. “Only children can get a great deal of socialization through daycare, because they’ll be interacting closely with the same children for many hours a day,” says Kluger.

Regardless of family size, family play is highly beneficial, says Good. The parentguided interactions that take place during family play help children develop behavioral regulation and emotional understanding.

one and only When deciding how many children to have, today’s parents have a lot to ponder, says Newman. “No one can decide what the right family size is for you except you and your partner,” she says. “The biggest influence on how your kids turn out is your parenting, not how many kids you have.” It’s a message Austin appreciates. She grew up with two brothers and remembers feeling left out and excluded at times. Though she never wanted to be an only child, she can see herself raising one. Grace is happy and growing up well, and she says, “That’s what matters.” Malia Jacobson is a nationally published health and parenting journalist and mom of three. Her latest book is Sleep Tight, Every Night: Helping Toddlers and Preschoolers Sleep Well Without Tears, Tricks, or Tirades.

RAISING SUCCESSFUL SINGLETONS Encourage healthy conflict resolution: Don’t shy away from family conflicts. Instead, use them as a springboard for lessons in negotiation, emotional understanding and self-control. Only children can benefit from observing parents as they resolve minor conflicts.

Promote extended family relationships: Only children can gain a deeper sense of identity and gain valuable social skills through interactions with extended family members of all ages.

Play as a family: Parent-guided interactions that occur during family play allow only children to develop empathy, social understanding and behavioral regulation. Source: Kyle Good, Ph.D., M.Ed.

kcparent.com january 2017

TIMELY PARENTING RESEARCH:

The Lowdown on Diet, Toys and Stay-at-Home Parents What does the latest research say about the diet of U.S. children, the best toys for kids’ development and what adults really think about working versus staying at home to raise a family? Take a look:

DIET

TOYS

STAY-AT-HOME PARENTS

In a study recently published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, researchers from Brown University found a marked improvement in the diet of U.S. children between 1999 and 2012. However, their overall diet still remains poor, the scientists note. The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) examined the diet quality of more than 38,000 kids ages 2 to 18 and found that, in general, their nutrition is steadily improving. However, what they eat is still far from ideal, and disparities persist by income, race and receipt of government food assistance. In fact, many of the components measured in the study’s Healthy Eating Index improved significantly, such as children’s eating more healthy foods (like whole fruit) and decreasing their consumption of empty calories (like sugary drinks). Sodium consumption, however, worsened. “I am encouraged by the gains,” says study lead author Xiao Gu, a master’s student in epidemiology in the Brown University School of Public Health. “Although we showed several components still need to be improved…our paper provides evidence that we are on the correct track.”

Trendy electronic gadgets pull kids in and dazzle them like a magician, but according to the latest toy research, backto-basics toys are better. In an online article recently published by the National Association for the Education of Young Children, researcher Jeffrey Trawick-Smith points out that simple, open-ended toys provide a variety of opportunities for flexible, imaginative play. Trawick-Smith, professor of early childhood education at the Center for Early Childhood Education at Eastern Connecticut State University, Willimantic, CT, offers a few best bets for kids: hardwood blocks, a set of wooden vehicles and road signs, and classic wooden construction toys. “The most important finding emerging from our studies is that different toys impact children’s behavior in different ways,” says Trawick-Smith. “Some toys have a powerful influence on children’s thinking, interaction with peers and creative expression. Other toys do not. Some of the toys that look most interesting to adults are not particularly effective in promoting development.”

Even though women have been flooding into the workforce for decades, a recent survey from the Pew Research Center notes that most Americans think children with two parents fare better when one of them (not necessarily the mom) stays home to take care of the family. In 46 percent of two-parent households in the United States today, both parents work full time, compared to just 31 percent employed full time among two-parent households in 1970. Among the 59 percent of U.S. adults who think children are better off with a stayat-home parent, about half say it doesn’t matter whether Mom or Dad foregoes a career to raise a family. Who is more likely to think one parent should stay at home? Men, older Americans, Hispanics and adults with a high school education or less.

kcparent.com january 2017

Lisa Beach is a freelance journalist, copywriter and humor blogger. Check out her writer’s website at LisaBeachWrites.com and visit her humor blog at TweeniorMoments.com. As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns.

FAITH&FAMILY

here are you stuck? Maybe it’s a place, relationship, job, mindset, habit or even a mood. I’ve found myself stuck in unwanted parenting habits or routines that leave us frustrated and worn. My marriage of 17 years gets stuck from time to time, and my husband and I do the hard work to clear a pathway forward. My relationship with God even can feel stuck and in need of some rebooting. The blank canvas of a new year is a good place to reevaluate those places where “stuck” best defines the position of your feet, mind and/or heart. Getting unstuck takes faith, courage and hard work, but the freedom to step out and move on is life giving. “Mom, mom, mommmmm…,” she repeated. “You sound like a broken record. Please come in here if you need to speak with me,” I threw back to her from the kitchen. My remark was futile, as an 8-year-old has no idea what a broken record is or does—but she’s in a phase where verbal stuckness is common, yet teachable. I quickly explained the gist

UNSTUCK

of a broken record and suggested she come speak to me face-to-face when she needs me. She flashed a dimpled smile of momentary understanding and continued to state whatever it was she’d needed in the first place. Whether our stuck places are fixed with gentle reminders or life altering decisions, they all require action on our parts. David, the famous Israelite king of the Old Testament, was a man of spiritual and physical action. He wrote about being stuck in Psalm 25:15: “My eyes are ever toward

the Lord, for he will pluck my feet out of the net.” Metaphorical nets in the psalms translate to real-life traps and troubles. We can draw practical tools from David’s faith in times of feeling stuck. First, David prays God’s promises of steadfast love and holy leadership in his life (see verses 8-14). Second, David confesses his own inability to save himself and God’s complete ability to rescue him from circumstance and sin (verses 16-22). Finally, David fixes his eyes on God even while his feet are trapped. We can be physically, emotionally or relationally stuck and have our eyes on God, believing he’ll bring rescue in His timing. Faith believes God can and will, even when we don’t know when or how. If 2016 was riddled with instances of your feet being trapped in “nets,” make 2017 a year of active faith. He knows our stuck places and invites us to walk into his room and speak to him face-to-face. Faith & Family writer Jena Meyerpeter wishes all the KCP readers a blessed and joyful 2017.

2016 WINNER

family faves kcparent.com january 2017

ife is expensive. Life with kids is even more expensive. So how do some parents who rely on one income not only survive, but still find ways to create a happy, wellrounded life for their families?

evaluate your biggest expenses.

SURVIVING and THRIVING how to make it on a single-income budget

According to Leah Ingram, a money-saving expert and author of Suddenly Frugal: How to Live Happier and Healthier for Less, housing, transportation and education are the largest expenses facing today’s families. If you can reduce spending in one of those areas, you’ll live more comfortably on less, she advises. “For most Americans owning a home is the American dream. But for so many people, especially families with children, renting in a good school district makes more sense than buying a home in a lower quality school district,” Ingram says. Thinking about leaving your job to stay home with your children? First, create a spreadsheet that compares the costs of commuting and childcare to how much you’ll save on those two expenses once you’re down to one income. “Sometimes it actually makes more sense for both parents to continue to keep working,” she points out. According to Pew Research, 31 percent of families live on a single income. Although many families make the choice, others are forced into the position. “The economy is still hard and job loss is still happening,” says Lenexa mom Beth Beseau, whose children are 8 and 5. “We’ve had to be flexible and willing to make adjustments in our lifestyle.”

control your inclinations. Beseau, who is the primary breadwinner in her family, says her greatest challenge is controlling the urge to impulse buy. “When you’re making a purchase, you have to ask yourself if it’s a want or a need. If you can do without it, then don’t buy it,” she advises.

slim down your food budget. It’s never too early to teach kids about saving money. For tips on how to start, head to KCParent.com.

kcparent.com january 2017

Decide how often you can afford to dine out at restaurants as a family. Instead of hitting the drive-thru for coffee every morning, make your own at home. And brown bag your lunches for work and school. Planning your family’s meals ahead of time can help you save money by curbing the need to pick up unhealthy fast food on the fly. Try planning your weekly meals around whatever specials your favorite grocer is offering that week. Or head to a bulk store like Costco or Sam’s. Take an afternoon to prepare meals you can stick in the freezer and pull out on nights when you don’t have time to cook.

Shawnee mom Emily Cowden and her husband, Jason, have five children, ages 10, 8, 6, 4 and 2. Cowden left her job as a registered dietitian to stay home with her children and home school. As a busy mom who is also committed to eating healthy on a frugal budget, she often skips time-consuming coupon-cutting and instead looks for sales at stores that offer healthy organic foods, like Aldi and Sprouts. She finds that eliminating processed snacks and cereals is especially helpful. “This cuts out a lot of unnecessary foods and unnecessary spending, leaving room for more nutrient-dense fruits, vegetables and proteins,” she says.

get creative. Many moms also turn to direct sales opportunities, like Pampered Chef, Mary Kay and Thirty One, as ways to pad their income. “Just be sure that stocking up (on product) doesn’t sack all of your earnings,” Ingram advises. “Also, you have to have the right personality to do direct sales. Not everyone is outgoing, and direct sales is not a path to easy money. These women work very hard, even if it’s at night and in people’s living rooms.” The Cowdens sell essential oils and other products through Young Living to help support their goal to live a healthy lifestyle. Rather than carrying an inventory, the couple works to educate others about the benefits of using essential oils properly. The extra income helps cover extracurricular activities for their children, meals with friends and vacations. “This winter we’re actually planning a trip to Europe for just my husband and me,” Cowden says. Beseau sells items she no longer needs, uses or wants. “The pocket cash has come in very handy,” she says. Other moms turn their skills into entrepreneurial ventures they can run from home, like freelance writing, photography or baking.

seek free or cheap family entertainment. Ironically, happy memories are usually borne of what seem like mundane family activities. Go on bike rides together, visit area parks, get out the watercolors and have a paint party, play board games, make homemade pizzas together or check out movies or video games at the library. Also stay tuned for coupons and deals at area attractions for reduced prices or free admissions.

INEXPENSIVE AREA ATTRACTIONS

• Ernie Miller Nature Center, Olathe (free) • Kansas City Zoo - Jackson or Clay County, MO, residents are eligible for reduced daily admission and opportunities to attend four free admission days throughout the year.

• Crown Center’s Kaleidoscope and the Hallmark Visitors Center have complimentary admission. Also check out reduced price Toddler Tuesdays and Sundays at Legoland Discovery Center and Sea Life.

• Upcoming free events at Crown Center include Under the Sea Adventure (Feb. 11-May 7) and Thomas & Friends: Explore the Rails (May 27-Sept. 10).

• Deanna Rose Farmstead in Overland Park offers free admission Monday through Thursday, 2:00 to close. For more ideas, check out KCParent.com.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

• Visit Emily and Jason Cowden at OurHobbyHome.com.

• Stock your freezer using the cookbook

Fix, Freeze and Feast by Kati Neville and Lindsay Tkacsik.

• Plan meals on a shoestring budget. Visit 5DollarDinners.com.

• Learn more from Leah Ingram at LeahIngram.com.

still struggling? “Make a list. Put your values and priorities in order. Budget around that,” Cowden says. “If you find all of your income going toward things that don’t bring you joy, it’s time reevaluate and get creative.”

Freelance journalist Christa Melnyk Hines and her husband are the parents of two boys. Christa is the author of Happy, Healthy & Hyperconnected: Raise a Thoughtful Communicator in a Digital World. kcparent.com january 2017

Candid KC Photobooth

party

KC Parent’s

guide

• fresh ideas • terrific themes • great venues

$50 OFF

A BIRTHDAY PARTY PACKAGE Party must be booked by 2/28/17 | Limit one coupon per party Code KCP50 | Not valid during Glow Zone or Mini Parties

kcparent.com january 2017

Candid KC Photobooth will bring the excitement and everlasting memories to your wedding, mitzvah, party, school dance, corporate event, fundraiser or marketing campaign. Our booths are designed for fun, elegance and flexibility. Both adults and kids love our booths which provide non-stop entertainment. High quality customized prints are produced within seconds of each session so the smiles come quickly and often. See display ad on pg. 29. www.CandidKCPhotoBooth.com

Ceramic Café Celebrate your child’s birthday at Ceramic Café. All parties are scheduled for oneand-a-half hours, giving you time to open presents and serve cake and ice cream. We have three different packages for kids parties, and another for mixed-age group celebrations. Call 913.383.0222 or visit www.CeramicCafeKC.com for more details. See display ad on pg. 32.

Gymboree

Kansas City Zoo

Choose your child’s favorite theme and we’ll create a private, personalized party experience filled with kid-friendly activities guaranteed to be 100% fun with zero clean up! We specialize in 1st birthday parties all the way to 5th birthday parties. Gymboree Play & Music parties are available to members and non-members. Call to find out more details. 913.262.3339 (Leawood), 816.505.3344 (Zona Rosa). See display ad on pg. 32. www.GymboreeClasses.com

Let the Kansas City Zoo host your child’s next birthday party. We guarantee a wild time for every guest! Our birthday party packages are for children 1-10 years of age. All packages include Zoo admission, a private space with your Education Party Host, cupcakes, and much more! Add-on options include face painters, themed decorations, animal encounters and so much more! Visit our website to check out these exciting options at www.KansasCityZoo.org. See display ad on pg. 33.

Jump City Jump City’s parties are full of bouncing, sliding, and jumping fun for kids 12 & under. With wall-to-wall inflatables, a variety of arcade games, full concession options and private party rooms, you can sit back, relax and enjoy the party while we do all the setup and cleanup. See display ad on pg. 29. www.JumpCityKC.com

Little Monkey Bizness Little Monkey Bizness takes the hassle out of party planning for parents. We provides the personalized invitations, balloons, party favors, plates, cups, forks, napkins and an optional pizza and soda package. Private play and party rooms. We do all the cleaning! All that’s left to do is show up and

have fun! Little Monkey Bizness has full gourmet coffee bar and free Wi-Fi. Open 7 days a week for all your birthday and open play needs. See display ad on pg. 32 for money saving coupons. 913.631.7000. www.LittleMonkeyBizness.com

Midwest Aquatics Looking for a fun, easy birthday party idea? Check out Midwest Aquatics swim parties! Swim year round in our heated, indoor pool. Parties include favors, cake, ice cream, drink, one hour of pool time with a life guard and more! In addition, you can choose a special themed Mermaid and King Triton party. Dress up with a crown, makeup, Mer-suit and mono fin for photos and then move to the pool to experience living in the water like Mer folk. For even more fun, try one of our scuba diving parties. See display ad on pg. 33. www.MidwestAquatics.com

We put the in Party!

All parties include

Keepsake Piece

for birthday child painted by PGF staff.

Visit our website for list of party packages! *Balloons not provided.

paintglazeandfire.net 127th & Metcalf • Overland Park, KS Reservations recommended. Walk-ins Welcome kcparent.com january 2017

Gifts that are generally well-received by parents:

PARTYGUIDE

Anything that is small, doesn’t make a mess or a lot of noise and doesn’t require the parent to do the activity FOR the child (e.g., a Rainbow Loom for a 4-year old). Outings Clear a date in advance with the parent and go to a playground, movie, sporting event, play or attraction (depending on your budget). Wrap a folder containing a brochure, advertisement or picture of the activity. For a playground date, include a small toy and the promise of a picnic. Or, sign up your child and the recipient for a one-day cooking or art class for kids. Books For non-avid readers, picture books about favorite passions or junior novelizations of a favorite movie or cartoon are good options, or ask what author/series the child likes and what volumes he or she doesn’t have. Music CDs Choose tunes you know the child likes (soundtracks of a kid’s favorite show/ movie are usually a good bet). Burn a mix of current favorites and label it “[Child’s name’s] Greatest Hits.” Include an inexpensive portable CD player (with headphones if you really want to make the parents happy!). This gift is best for young children. Older kids just want iTunes

how to give gifts that kids AND parents \ will appreciate Go to a playground, movie, sporting event, play or attraction!

Go to KCParent.com for more great gift ideas!

Roll Out the Red Carpet for Your Next Birthday Party! Movies2U is KC’s premier provider & facilitator of outdoor and indoor cinema events

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gift cards! Our kids loved playing with an “old-fashioned” tape recorder. They would record themselves talking and singing and would play it back repeatedly. It is fun to have the tapes now to hear their cute baby voices again. DVDs If a child is a fan of a movie that is not yet out on DVD, pre-order it online to be delivered to the child. This provides a gift to anticipate after the main occasion (and gift overload) have passed. Clothing or practical items Kids rarely enjoy receiving clothing items UNLESS they are emblazoned with their favorite character. Be sure to get the parent’s permission first if there is any question about a character’s suitability. Some examples: Disney character pajamas, a Lego water bottle or storage bin, a character T-shirt, sleeping bag, blanket or beach towel. HINT: Pair a practical item with a small toy. Some of the best gifts we have received (in my opinion, not necessarily my children’s) are cute storage accessories. Sports equipment Sports accessories beyond the basics a child already has make nice gifts. For example, a gymnastic/dance

bag, cool goggles or a mask, licensed apparel for a favorite team (Sporting Kansas City has a great new apparel line out). Offer to come to a practice or event and take photos of the athlete in action with a good camera. Frame the best shots or put the photos in a book or on a mock sports magazine cover.

Gifts to carefully consider before giving: Yo-yo Don’t give a child under age 6

a yo-yo. For younger children, a yo-yo is pretty much a rock tied to a string, and it makes a great choking hazard. Noise Please reconsider gifts that make a huge amount of noise and don’t have volume control or off switches (unless you are trying to get revenge against the parents). HINT: If you do receive such a gift, and your child loves it, put duct tape over the speaker. This can help control the volume. Stuffed animals According to most parents I know, unless the child has specifically asked for them, these fluffy toys tend to multiply and, aside from a few special ones, do not get played with very often. Toy weapons Only give these if you

have cleared it with the parents first. Bubbles While many kids love bubbles, they might already have a cabinet full at home. This is another item that can multiply, so resist unless they do something special, or the child has specifically asked for them. (Same goes for sidewalk chalk and Play-doh.) Coloring/activity books Typically, the activities in these are too difficult for the target age range. For example, superhero activity books that appeal to a preschooler have complicated word searches, code breaking and activities more appropriate for older children who, by the time they could do the activities, wouldn’t want a “babyish” coloring book. A longer-lasting gift might be a DIY plastic bin with a lid or zippered pencil case with crayons or colored pencils, sketch pad or construction paper, stencils, stickers, etc. Avoid glitter and glue and definitely glitter glue! Most importantly, when in doubt, ask the parents for suggestions! Laura Miller McEachen is a part-time attorney and full-time mommy. She lives in Overland Park.

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Party Awesome! how to make your child’s day in the simplest of ways

interest-inspired birthday themes have both excited and overwhelmed the best of parents since the site’s inception, but nothing can trump the simple gestures of quality time and kindness to make a child know he’s adored on his birthday. Here are some simple ways to celebrate the birthday boy or girl in your life.

birthday scent Our sense of scent is one of the most powerful memory triggers available to us. It’s why a waft of spicy snickerdoodles in the oven can instantly transport us back to Grandma’s kitchen...or a whiff of smoke to childhood memories around a bonfire. Scent is processed in the olfactory bulb (your brain’s scent analyzing region) and resides next to the amygdala and hippocampus, the brain’s memory and emotion processor, so it’s no surprise that smells and memories are so powerfully connected. Taking her cue from this truth, Kansas City mom Janis Hedstrom decided that,

kcparent.com january 2017

upon the birth of each of her three children, she would wear designated perfume or scented lotions on each of their birthdays. For those wishing to establish a similar tradition but starting later in the game, consider asking your children what their favorite scents are and recreating them within your home on each of their birthdays. You can do this by burning a scented candle, diffusing essential oil or baking a favorite food in the oven.

birthday wake-Up The giddy excitement a child has on his birthday morning usually can be met only by the excitement of waking up on Christmas Day. Becoming one year older is a big deal in the eyes of a child! Let him know it’s a day of rejoicing for the whole family by decorating his bedroom doorway with streamers and balloons the night before (make sure to encase the balloons in plastic so they fall on him when he opens the door!). He’ll be in for a treat walking out of his room first thing in the morning! Earlier

in the week, gather the family together to write words of encouragement on sticky notes for the birthday child, such as “You tell the best jokes!” or “You are a fabulous big sister!” Disperse the notes throughout the house in places the birthday child will discover them while performing daily tasks like brushing teeth or cleaning the bedroom.

birthday royalty Let your birthday boy or girl feel like a king or queen for the day. Break out the fine china, make a paper crown and decorate the birthday child’s chair at the kitchen table. Divvy up the child’s daily chores amongst the family and offer to do them as a birthday gift. Provide a photo shoot for your child, with her favorite items as props. Create a delicious smoothie or punch together and name it after the birthday child. And if your child has school on her birthday, have flowers or balloons delivered to her and wrap every individual item in her lunch box (from the sandwich down to the juice box!) in festive birthday gift wrap.

PARTYGUIDE birthday cuisine Let the birthday child choose the menu for a celebratory dinner. It could mean hitting a favorite restaurant or simply whipping up the meal of choice at home. Just keep an open mind as to what the courses may include. As Olathe mom Dixie Robertson recently found out, it may make for some unusual combinations. “Our daughter who is turning 8 made the following request: asparagus soup, broccoli, radishes, lima beans and mashed potatoes,” she says. “I’m not sure her siblings will be thrilled, but at least there will be cake afterward!”

birthday memory recap One of my favorite baby shower presents I received was a keepsake box with custom stationery and the simple instruction to write a letter to my child every year on his birthday until he was 21. (For the 21 days leading up to his 21st birthday, the instructions say to give him a letter each day.) I’ve since done this with all my boys, kcparent2016-2.pdf

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chronicling how much they’ve grown (including their clothing and shoe size, as well as how tall they are), how they’ve matured (denoting marks of character I’ve noticed in them throughout the year), as well as my hopes and prayers for them in the coming year. This simple measure can be done with the intention of reserving the letters to give later in life, but they also make precious gifts to read aloud to your children only a few years down the line. Another fun way to document the life of your children is to record an annual birthday interview of them where you ask them some of their favorite things, such as foods, colors, school subjects and movies. With each birthday, break out the previous years’ footage and admire how much the birthday child in your family has grown and changed.

birthday blessings Perhaps the simplest measure has the most impact on a child. As a family, take a moment around the dinner table to share

briefly what your favorite thing is about the birthday boy or girl, as well as how the child blesses the family. Be specific! “I love how you are so quick to help me clean around the house” or “You grace our home with beautiful music every time you practice the piano.” These are detailed ways you show what a valuable role the birthday child plays within family life. Lauren Greenlee has executed approximately 17 birthday parties in her parenting career. She writes from her Olathe home.

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PARTYGUIDE Movies2U Roll out the red carpet and celebrate that special occasion with a movie! Round up the kids to watch their favorite movie on one of our larger than life inflatable screens. Throw in our popcorn machine and the effect will be complete. The kids won’t forget it and you’ll love it as our professional staff takes care of every detail. One of our 4 differently sized screens is sure to fit your occasion and budget. See display ad on pg. 28. www.Movies2U.com.

Paint, Glaze & Fire Ceramics & Coffee House Paint, Glaze & Fire is PARTY CENTRAL & KC’s only paint-your-own pottery studio with a full service coffee bar. Creating beautiful ceramics is fun & easy for everyone from young children to experienced adults. Visit us for birthday parties, Scout outings, corporate team building, girls’ night out, bridal showers or

“just because.” Only at 127th and Metcalf, 913.661.CLAY (2529). See display ad on pg. 27. www.PaintGlazeAndFire.net

Paradise Park Kansas City’s premier party destination offers an incredible experience for the birthday child and easy, hassle-free party for mom and dad. We take care of it all! Choose from five award-winning party packages. Visit www.Paradise-Park.com for online booking. 816.246.5224. See display ad on pg. 27 for a party upgrade.

Parties by Rose Parties by Rose is Kansas City’s up-andcoming children’s entertainment hot spot. Rose offers characters ranging from your favorite princesses and superheroes, to pirates and mermaids. The characters sing, dance, tell stories, play games, host obstacle courses, help with cake, take photos with the guests, bring gifts and

more! She also provides full party planning, décor, cakes, party favors, fantasy face painting, event photography services, and much more! See display ad on pg. 27. www.PartiesByRose.com

Princess at My Party Have your child’s favorite princess come to her birthday party! Choose from Elsa, Anna, Ariel, Belle, Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty and Snow White. Also inquire about our new Super Girl parties! Then watch the magic unfold as the birthday girl and guests go on an adventure that includes a story, games, music, a makeover or face painting and a treasure hunt. 816.830.4841. See display ad on pg. 29. www.PrincessAtMyParty.com

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Urban Air Trampoline Park Urban Air Trampoline Park is an attractive solution to a common problem: needing one place to entertain kids of every age. Just a few blocks from Prairiefire and Corbin Park, our facility is the perfect destination for family entertainment. Our facility caters to birthday parties for kids of all ages. If your group is up for a little sweat and a lot of bounce, we are the place for you. See display ad on pg. 31. www.UrbanAirOP.com

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are you raising rude eaters? teaching table manners to children

able manners, like all types of manners, arise from the idea of showing respect for those around us. If one only ever dined alone, many of these niceties would be less important. However, most parents are working to raise children who can participate in society, so teaching dining etiquette becomes a necessity.

THE BASICS: From the time very young children graduate from high chair to table, you can start reinforcing these basics:

Napkins belong in your lap, not beside your plate, not on your head, not on your brother. We even sing a song about it: “Put your napkin in your lap, in your lap” (to the tune of “If You’re Happy and You Know It,” even though no singing at the table is another rule—I know, it’s very confusing). Don’t use any napkin substitutes: your clothes, your parent, your sibling, the dog, the chair cushion. For informal meals, keep a stack of napkins on the table.

Wait your turn. Don’t eat until

everyone is at the table and has been served. If you don’t instill this one early, the rest of the diners will be on second helpings before the cook even has taken a seat.

No complaining. This includes

verbal as well as nonverbal forms of communication. If you don’t like a food, that is your secret. You can say, “No, thank you,” if more is offered, but that is your only choice. Do not spit out food (or if you absolutely must, do it into a napkin).

4 For tips on teaching kids play date manners, head to KCParent.com.

Your food is for you (and its corollary: my food is for me). Don’t

show others what is inside your mouth. Chew with your mouth closed! Don’t grab food off other’s plates or reach across others.

Sit (the right way) in your chair the whole meal. Don’t expect small

children to be able to do this for very long or with much consistency—15 minutes is likely the most you will get. Praise them when they are eating quietly and sitting still.

kcparent.com january 2017

AGES 6-9: For young elementary age children, work on refining the following skills:

Place settings. I know quite a few adults who still aren’t quite sure how to set a basic table. (Hint: The fork goes on the left.) A great tool for teaching proper table setting is placemats that outline what goes where.

Utensils. By now, children should have

the fine motor control to learn how to use utensils properly and how to use their knife and fork to cut up food. Also teach them what to do with their utensils when they are not in use. Don’t push your plate away when you are finished.

3 4

No elbows on the table. How to ask or decline politely. Have

your children practice this by ordering for themselves at a restaurant. “May I please have…” or “I would like…,” not “I want chicken nuggets now!” Teach them that “No, thank you” should be sufficient most of the time. They don’t have to elaborate on the reason.

AGES 9 AND UP: Older children should be taught more advanced etiquette suitable for situations they will encounter, such as eating at a friend’s house or eating at a nice restaurant.

Courses. Explain the order of the courses

at fancy restaurants and which utensils, cups or glasses and plates go with each.

Passing and serving food to others.

A meal that includes extended family is perfect for practicing this skill.

No technology at the table. This is one that parents need to model themselves. Banning technology is hard if you are on your own phone at mealtimes! Phones should be switched to vibrate and kept out of sight when dining formally. The most important rule for all ages is to be sure to thank your host for the meal! Laura McEachen is a part-time attorney and full-time mommy who is often reminded by her daughter to keep her elbows off the table.

Do you have any of these characters at your dining table? THE WANDERER: A child who cannot remain seated during the meal, does laps around the table, hops up and down and does a balancing act on his chair. THE COMPLAINER: “Some of my food is touching other food!” “Ewwwww! What is this?” “It’s not fair—Brother/Sister has more/less than I do!” THE BUILDER: A child who constructs things with any “materials” within reach at the table: utensils, ketchup bottle, salt and pepper shakers, his food, his napkin… THE ENTERTAINER: This child cannot simply eat her food. She must sing, dance, act out and perform her own interpretation of the meal. THE SLOW POKE: The child who has taken only a few bites by the time the rest of the table has finished the meal.

kcparent.com january 2017

is your family ready for a pet?

hey’re cute. They’re cuddly. And doggone it, your child is begging to bring one into your home. Whether you’re considering a dog, cat, bird, goldfish or guinea pig, knowing when your family is truly ready to adopt a pet can be tricky. While pets can become an important part of family life, be sure to weigh carefully the pros and cons of your family’s owning one. What does it mean to own a pet? In any household with children, an animal should be considered a family pet, not just the responsibility of one person. Everyone should participate in the animal’s care, depending on ability and age. Young children even can take turns feeding a pet or going on walks. This helps teach children that animals are part of the family and deserve the same level of care as humans do.

kcparent.com january 2017

Teach respect. Children of every age must understand that pets should never be handled roughly. Teaching them to touch gently and to leave the pet alone when it’s eating and sleeping is very important. Just because Johnny wants to interact with the pet doesn’t mean it’s an appropriate time to do so. Self-control is very important for the safety of both your child and the pet. If a child has a fear of animals, getting a pet isn’t a good idea—just yet. If little Judy is afraid of animals, but her siblings are really wanting a pet, ignoring Judy’s fear isn’t the cure. This can cause the fearful child to make a mistake around the animal. What you can do to alleviate her fear is visit an animal shelter or spend time with a friend’s pet. Introduce her to calm animals, such as older dogs, rather than energetic puppies.

How you interact with the pet can help guide her out of her fears. Does your child struggle to keep up with simple chores, such as brushing his teeth, clearing the table after dinner or keeping his room tidy? If so, he may not be ready for the responsibilities of owning a pet. Once a pet joins the family, a child needs to be consistent with helping feed and care for it. Remind him that a pet cannot join the family until he shows consistency in remembering his own duties around the house. A pet will depend on him every day, just as he depends on his parents every day. Deciding to get a pet for your children is just as wonderful as it is laborious. However, there is an extensive list of positives to it all. Besides becoming a mom/dad hero to your kids, the rewards of childhood pet ownership extend quite far.

Not only do children develop a sense of responsibility when caring for a pet, but children gain self-confidence. Responsibility and confidence. Not only do children develop a sense of responsibility when caring for a pet, but children gain selfconfidence. When they see that they’re doing a good job taking care of their pet, they’re proud of their accomplishments. Stress reduction. Pets tend to bring a sense of calm for children and adults alike. Animals make us feel more relaxed, and like adults, children often turn to pets when they’re feeling upset or angry. Pets are magical in how they bring peace to almost any situation and provide humans with a sense of safety, security and unconditional love. Discipline. If a child has a dog, she’ll learn to train it and teach it to listen. It’s been scientifically proven that having a dog helps children learn about discipline, and some would argue that having cats can teach this as well.

“The Building Blocks for your Child’s Future”

Exercise. Activity levels in children with pets are considerably higher. Compassion. Owning a pet contributes to children’s developing a greater sense of empathy and compassion. Before bringing any furry pet into your home, be sure to spend time with it as a family to rule out any allergies a family member may have to the animal’s fur and dander. And remember: You can be allergic to one dog or cat breed but not another. Mom and author Gina Klein lives in Kansas City with her husband, two daughters, tortoises, dogs, cats and fish. Animals have always been a huge part of their family.

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Though it’s tempting to just take matters into your own hands when chores are left undone, fight the urge. Lay out reasonable expectations for when each task is to be completed and make sure penalties for missing those deadlines are clearly explained. That way, when your daughter doesn’t clean her bathroom for the third week in a row, she’s not surprised when you actually make her shovel the driveway as a consequence.

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Should you pay your kids for chores? Find out at KCParent.com.

hack your home: keeping a cap on the chore chaos A new year means taking a fresh look in the mirror and finding ways to improve yourself and your life. What if one of those improvements were right inside your front door? Household chores may seem like the bane of your existence, but they don’t have to be. Here are five ways to hack your home in 2017 so it becomes a well-oiled (and dusted) haven for you and your whole family.

For teenagers, laundry and cleaning their own bathroom are a given, so work in extra chores like helping to make dinner one night a week.

kcparent.com january 2017

RALLY THE TROOPS A family is a team, so there should never be an MVP of cleaning and chores. Dividing up tasks around the house is an absolute necessity. It not only teaches children about responsibility, but also gives them a sense of ownership about the home in which they live. Consider drafting up a fun chore board that lists out each person’s job. (Check out Pinterest for some great examples that are easy to create.) For teenagers, laundry and cleaning their own bathroom are a given, so work in extra chores like helping to make dinner one night a week. It might even help you avoid calls at 3:00 in the morning asking how to boil an egg once your son is in college.

Christmas has come and gone, but the remnants of wrapping paper, bows and boxes are still keeping the memory alive. Make this the year you commit to organizing the holiday junk. Purchase an IKEA Variera plastic bag holder (which is actually a great solution in and of itself), and put it to work as a wrapping paper and bow container. For just $1.99, it’s an inexpensive way to create calm from the chaos. Check out Pinteret for other DIY solutions for overflowing package accoutrements.

OVER THE DOOR, OFF THE FLOOR How many times have you bought air freshener only to come home and find three unused bottles? The fact is, you’re much less likely to use cleaning products if you have to climb underneath a sink (or three) just to locate them. Get your cleaning products out of the shadows and into the hands of your family by utilizing an over-the-door shoe rack. The clear plastic dividers let you see not only what you already have, but also what’s running low. And no more “I can’t find the glass cleaner!” comments from the kids. That alone is worth its weight in toilet bowl cleaner.

SHOE BOX STORAGE Teenagers have makeup—lots of it. While makeup bags are a nice idea, things just get tossed in at random, making the search for that one black eyeliner almost impossible. Create an inexpensive makeup organizer with your teen at home. Cover a shoe box with fun wrapping paper, then fill the box with nail polish bottles. Boom: organization! If you have a little money to spend, buy a few acrylic organizers from Ikea, Target, the Container Store or even Amazon. The containers range in price from $5.00 to

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$25.00 and can help to divide and conquer the makeup madness. But don’t stop at makeup. All those little building blocks lying on your living room carpet? Or colored pencils sprawled out on the craft table? Contain them as well. Your family even can create labels for each unit and drawer so everything has its place and every place has a name.

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

EASY JOBS YOUR KIDS SHOULD DO DAILY: • Toy pickup at bedtime • Clothing from the day put away, not on the floor • Sink wipe-down following teeth brushing sessions • Beds made • Book bags in their bedroom, not on the dining room table • Shoes placed in the closet, not next to the front door kcparent.com january 2017

the importance of a COMMUNITY and a SOCIAL LIFE for single parents

or the first few months after I became a single parent, I tried to keep up with my childless friends. I remember being at a dinner party shortly after my son was born, with a bunch of childless 20-somethings enjoying wine and adult conversation. I awkwardly excused myself to breastfeed, which was not as

chic 14 years ago as it is now. After his feeding, the baby had a blowout

diaper so I excused myself from the party for a second time. Then, he began to scream inconsolably. I was frazzled, distraught and exhausted.

kcparent.com january 2017

The childless 20-somethings were polite but clearly uncomfortable. I left hurriedly and sobbed louder than the baby for the entire drive home. This tiny, needy human had ruined my first attempt to get my social life back on track. When I walked into my empty apartment that night, loneliness rushed me like a tidal wave. I was different now. My life was different now. My needs were different now. My idea of fun was different now. Everything was different, whether I liked it or not. I continued to try to stay connected to my pre-baby friends, and a few of them made the same effort in return. But by the end of that first year, I was desperate for a community who could get into the trenches with me and know, really know, what it was like to be a single parent. I attended a large church where I mostly knew no one. Sitting there alone on Sundays made me feel like I was the only single person in the world. Still, I was certain that somewhere in the crowd, there had to be more single parents who were probably feeling as isolated as I was. I began to ask around and, sure enough, there were more of us. We were at various ages and stages, but in no time at all, we formed a group and connected through shared experiences and desperate need. We linked arms and built a community. Our merry little band of single moms eventually expanded to include single dads, as well. We formed babysitting co-ops, swapped clothes, met up for outings, established single parent car care days—and I even ended up with a roommate for a year, raising our sons together. Our community helped each other move, traveled together and participated in each other’s weddings. Most importantly, we showed up for one another. Showed up in real life ways. We learned how to ask for help. We learned that just because we were parenting without partners did not mean we had to do it alone. Like all groups, that one had a lifespan and, after a few years, it dissolved. However, the friendships did not. I have several forever friendships as a result of the community we created out of desperate loneliness. They are a gift and a lifeline. When it was over, I once again found myself fighting loneliness and isolation. Several of my close friends had married, and because I was still single, I was feeling back on the outside. I needed something new to fill the void. I went online. No, not to date (that came later). I went online to connect with other single moms. I joined the Community section of BabyCenter.com, where I could interact with other single moms on chat boards. We posted about our struggles and victories as single mothers, and as we shared our lives, strong ties began to form. It wasn’t long before a small group of us that had connected especially well split off to form our own private group. In private, we could interact with each other on a deeper level, without fear that the public had access to our posts. We called ourselves the SWMU: Single Working Moms UNCENSORED.

It’s been six years since we first started our online group, and we have become deep, loyal, lifelong friends. We represent Philadelphia, Boston, Baltimore, Salt Lake City, San Francisco, Edinburgh, Scotland, and of course, Kansas City. Most of us have met at least once in person. We’ve had weddings and babies and new jobs and new relationships, break-ups and family crises. We’ve had parenting challenges and custody challenges and, occasionally, we have even had conflict amongst ourselves. But always, no matter what, we have supported each other through major life events and the daily grind. It is a community that sustained me when I had no one else who could and helped shape who I am as a mother and as a person. Community always has been an essential piece to my makeup as a mother. I needed both the camaraderie and the counsel— two things co-parents often get from each other but single parents must intentionally seek out. I needed a village. I could not let my motherhood isolate me just because I didn’t have a partner. I found that when I surrounded myself with other single parents who could relate to my experiences, the hard times were bearable and the great times were celebrated like only single parents can celebrate. As long as I kept my tank full through relationships with other single moms, I had so much more bandwidth available to reinvest in my children. Parenting is hard, single or otherwise, and I believe all parents can benefit from a community or support system. But single parenting can be a feast or famine endeavor, and often support and resources are in short supply. Finding and building a community might feel daunting, and perhaps you can’t even think about putting one more thing on your to-do list. I know the feeling. Start small, with a quick post on an online forum. Or check out the resources we’ve provided with this article. You need people in your life who can understand and respond to you as someone who has been there and gets it and is willing to lock arms with you.

Erin Jones works at the Kansas City Art Institute and is also a freelance writer and professional photographer. She is working on her first book – part memoir and part single parenting survival guide.

Resources: BabyCenter: Community.BabyCenter.com MeetUp: MeetUp.com Making Lemonade Single Parent Network: MakingLemonade.com TheLifeOfASingleMom.com

kcparent.com january 2017

10 TIPS for boosting your child’s reading skills

ecoming a reader is one of the most exciting learning adventures your child ever will experience. Many children need little more than exposure to books and they’re off on their own. But others need guided support as they struggle with sounds, fluency and reading unfamiliar words. Reading is a complex process, but it’s vitally important to all learning. When a child is overwhelmed by the pace of new vocabulary or the expectation to “read faster,” he is more likely to feel discouraged. You’ll want to help your child build skills step by step and maintain a high degree of enthusiasm and confidence all along the way. Reading together regularly is the best way parents can help their children learn to read. Here are some tried and true methods to use when you read side by side with your young learner:

First, be sure your child is ready to read. Have you read many and varied stories, poems, nursery rhymes and a variety of nonfiction books to him? Does she know how to hold a book, turn the pages and follow from left to right? Does he know the letters of the alphabet and the sounds they make? Can he recognize a few words, such as his name, mom and dad, stop, go, etc.? Does she know how to write some letters on her own? If the answer is no to most of these, take some time to get ready for reading. And be sure the entire process is positive and enjoyable.

kcparent.com january 2017

Keep a reading/writing center in your home filled with supplies. You might include all kinds of paper, pens, markers, crayons, scissors, tape and glue, pipe cleaners, envelopes, stamps and stamp pads, etc. Children love to make their own books and write their own stories.

Read favorite books over and over again. Stop and let your child fill in the words. Allow her to memorize the book and “read” it herself. This kind of practice is confidence-building and sets the stage for independent reading lessons.

Once you’re working on early reading material, remember good readers use a variety of strategies to solve problems. As adults we do this without giving the process much thought. Here are some of the strategies we use when we come upon a new or difficult word. Your child should use them too.

1. We go back and reread to make sense. 2. We break the word into chunks and read the parts we already know. 3. We read past the word to see what might make sense in that place. 4. We read carefully all the way through the word, part by part. 5. We use picture clues and other prompts from the text. 6. We ask ourselves questions such as “Does that make sense?” “Would that work?” and “Does that sound right?”

to depict the characters, setting and storyline. Compare and contrast, chart the action, decide to change the ending or write new characters into the book.

Choose the right reading level for your child. Children need some familiar and easy books to practice on their own. They also need books at their instructional level, which means books with a few challenges. When they are working on these more difficult books, you need to be with them, asking questions, prompting with correct strategies and being available to prevent reading frustrations. Allowing a wait time of 8-10 seconds before stepping in with a prompt gives the reader time to try some strategies on his own.

Choose quality materials. Become familiar with great authors and illustrators. You can find lists of classic children’s literature at ALA.org. This is the national organization for libraries. Look for books that have earned accolades such as Caldecott awards for illustrations and Newbery awards for excellence in literature.

6 7

Avoid labeling your reader with words that compare. She’s on the road to reading and it’s not important whether she’s learning as quickly as another person.

It’s a joy to watch children become fluent readers, but it can be a challenge to work daily with those children who struggle to learn. In most cases, lots of practice at the appropriate reading levels will provide growth over time. You even may want to write a few books about your own family members and make that the reading practice of the day. Familiar names, places and activities will make the story much more engaging. Your child will pick up on your enthusiasm for reading.

Be sure the culture of your home is pro-reading. Use your local library to enrich your home with good reading material. Newspapers, magazines, baseball cards and maps are all reading material too. Your children should see you reading for enjoyment, and there should be read-aloud times every day. Family read-alouds with time for discussion are a wonderful incentive for young readers to work hard to become fluent themselves.

8 9

Retelling a tale out loud is a great way for children to gain the meaning of the story. They’ll become familiar with characters, settings and the action line’s beginning, middle and end.

Your reward? Happy, successful learners. Jan Pierce, MEd, is a retired teacher and a reading specialist. She is the author of Homegrown Readers: Simple Ways to Help Your Child Learn to Read and Homegrown Family Fun: Unplugged. Find her at JanPierce.net.

Make reading fun with extensions and activities related to the stories they love. Let them draw, act out the story, make mobiles, puppets and all sorts of art projects related to the characters and action of a favorite book. Make charts and graphs

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KC Parent â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

winter

FUN GUIDE! table of contents

45 word from dad 46 entertain kids at home 48 craft corner 49 summer fun in winter 50 winter activities in kc from a-z 52 best day for fun in kc

WORDFROMDAD

opened the door and stared at the leaden sky. Temperatures hovered barely above freezing and no snow fell. My neighborhood contained only brown grass, dark gray trees and scattered clumps of snow remaining from shoveled driveways. Christmas with all its bright colors and excitement was stored for next year. No lights, no greenery, no decorations adorned our walls or lifted our spirits. Inside was just as drab as outside. I closed the door and regarded the boys, both absorbed in their tablets. We can do better. “Hey, guys! Want some cookies?” Sandi caught on immediately. “How about some popcorn and some hot chocolate?” James pulled the tiny buds from his ears and Ian lifted his head.

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“Mom, you and James get the popcorn and hot chocolate. Ian, we’ll get the cookies.” Although not exactly excited, Ian got into the spirit and the kitchen bustled with activity. By the time the kitchen was straightened, we had five dozen cookies, minus the three that Ian quality checked, a pot of hot chocolate and a bowl of fresh popcorn. James and Ian looked one another in the

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eye, smiled and dusted their hands. Mission accomplished and they headed for their tablets. “Not so fast, you two. That was just getting started. What’ll it be, a board game or the stacking game.” Ian spoke for both boys. “Dad, those are so lame. We’re not little, any more.” I smiled. Kids think we were never young. “OK, then it’s time for an adult game.” I pulled a deck of cards from my pocket. “Pull up a chair, guys, and let me teach you.” I shuffled the cards briskly, bridging them and dealing with a quick flick. “This is a game of intelligence, strategy, skill and luck.” The boys sat and picked up their cards. William R. Bartlett lives in Belton with his family.

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winter FUN GUIDE!

entertaining the kids at home

! e e r f for

ou’re probably just getting over the Christmas letdown, maybe even packing decorations away, sending the children back to school and feeling a bit of the winter blues settling in. If you are like me, you always feel a bit sad after the

holiday season is over. Such a special, truly wonderful time of the year fills our hearts with warmth—and then comes January. Cold, boring January. The cold weather we Kansas Citians can experience definitely makes winter a challenging time. Our families get stuck inside more than we would like. If your kids (and you!) have a little cabin fever, here are a few activities to add a bright spot to everyone’s day. I hope you can find at least one activity worth trying out!

kcparent.com january 2017

outdoors

all of the blankets and pillows on the floor at the end of “theWebedpileandupjump into them…and we have a lot of dance parties! ”

• If the temps aren’t terrible, bundle

everyone up and go for a brisk walk around your neighborhood. • Instead of “you’ve been boo’d or jingled,” start a new tradition with your neighbors with “you’ve been snowed on.” Check out DimplePrints.com and search “you’ve been snowed” for directions and free printables! • Snowball fights, snow forts, sledding… follow any of these activities with a delicious cup of hot cocoa!

baking/recipes

• A favorite recipe at our house is banana

oat Greek yogurt muffins from the blog Running with Spoons. With no flour and no oil, these are a nice addition to your snack repertoire! • Start the morning off right with fluffy, yummy pancakes. Our go-to recipe is blueberry oatmeal yogurt pancakes we found online. Kids can help with this easy recipe too! • Have mini pizzas for lunch or dinner and let the kids choose their own toppings and make their own pizzas on English muffins. • Whip up a good old-fashioned batch of chocolate chip, oatmeal raisin or snickerdoodle cookies.

sensory/messy

• Place baking soda in a container and

let your child slowly pour vinegar in (add food coloring to the vinegar for an added surprise). Or have your child use an eye dropper to fine tune motor skills. Watch the reaction! • If you are feeling adventurous, make indoor snow using two boxes of cornstarch and one can of shaving cream. Mix it up in a big plastic container and you’ll have just as much fun as your kids! • If indoor snow isn’t your thing, then bring snow indoors! Use a bucket, plastic storage container—or even your bathtub— and fill it up with some snow! You even could give your children spray bottles filled with colored water to “paint” the

snow. Imagine the fun and laughter when they (or you) “paint” their names, letters of the alphabet or numbers.

arts and crafts

• Go ahead and hop on Pinterest to find a seasonal craft activity. For example, make torn paper snowmen. Each family member can tear and create his own—or work on one snowman as a group (don’t forget the accessories). Or get a head start on Valentine’s Day by creating stained glass hearts for your windows by sticking colored tissue on a heart cut from contact paper. • Make paper plate snowmen using a small plate for the head and larger one for the body. Your child can estimate how many cotton balls will fill it up, then start gluing and counting (never hurts to sneak in a little learning, too). Break out whatever random craft objects you can find for unique add-ons. While I literally could go on and on with ideas of things to do, I’d better stop and get busy doing some of these with my own children! Sometimes we all just need a little fire under us to break out of a rut. I challenge you to pick one activity that might be out of your comfort zone. I can nearly promise you, your children will love it! Julie Collett writes from Overland Park where she loves getting crafty and creative with her three children, ages 5, 4 and 2.

Tips from Local Moms • Cassi from Prairie Village loves to just hang out at home with her children. “We enjoy doing puzzles, creating forts and baking. We also pile up all of the blankets and pillows on the floor at the end of the bed and jump into them… and we have a lot of dance parties!” • Emily, a mom from Sibley, says, “I plan out crafts for the month, usually around the closest holiday. Anything from a science experiment, to playing with clay, to finger painting. I love scavenger hunts and even taking crepe paper and building an obstacle course.” • “Tape a toilet paper or paper towel roll (empty of course) to the wall. Drop pompons through it. Repeat over and over forever,” says Allison, a Leawood mom. • Anna from Kansas City suggests snuggling up on the couch with blankets and having a read-a-thon.

Homemade Flubber recipe: 1 c. (2 bottles) Elmer’s washable white glue 1/2 c. water (room temperature) 1/2 c. liquid starch Glitter or food coloring optional Mix glue and water together into one container. Stir until well combined. Mix in color or glitter if you choose. Next, add this mixture to the liquid starch in a new bowl. Use your hands to combine the ingredients well. Keep mixing the Flubber for a few minutes. Play with your Flubber immediately or let it set up for about 15 minutes. Covered loosely, Flubber keeps up to a week at least! (Taken from LittleBinsForLittleHands.com)

kcparent.com january 2017

winter FUN GUIDE! From toddlers to preteens, kids of all ages will have a blast crafting up snowflake creations on a cold and dreary day!

Materials Needed:

* Q-tips paper * Black Glue * Scissors *

CRAFTCORNER

Step One: Cut the Q-tips into different lengths.

Q-tip snowflakes These charming snowflakes made out of Q-tips are so pretty! This project is so fun because children can make each snowflake totally different, whether simple or intricate. From toddlers to preteens, kids of all ages will have a blast crafting up snowflake creations on a cold and dreary day!

Megan Kapple is a blogger from Kansas City, MO, where she lives with her husband and three young daughters. She loves anything DIY and crafty and blogs about her adventures at HomemadeGinger.com.

kcparent.com january 2017

Step Two: Glue the Q-tips onto black paper, forming snowflake shapes. Experiment with different patterns and sizes. Step Three: After the glue has dried, cut the snowflakes out and enjoy!

summer

fun

WINTER IN THE

IN KANSAS CITY By Kristina Light

Plaza, Tropics, Discovery Barn and Snake House and Polar Bear Passage, where your children will delight in watching Berlin swim and play right before their eyes! Pack a picnic and eat inside while watching Berlin frolic.

•

Play at the Park. Kansas City’s weather can be fickle. One year, we enjoyed snow on the first day of spring. Conversely, it’s not unusual for a few “warm days” to surprise us mid-winter. When the opportunity strikes, surprise the family with a day of play and picnic.

TAKE ME OUT TO THE BALLGAME Celebrate America’s favorite summer pastime: baseball! Whether you love to play or you’re an avid fan rooting for the home team, your passion for the sport can continue all winter long!

•

Legacy Park Community Center in Lee’s Summit

ou can beat the winter blues with a bit of “summer fun.” If you long for swimming, baseball, ice cream, playing outdoors....keep reading! Summer’s fun can be here all winter long. All it takes is a touch of creativity and a sense of adventure.

GO SWIMMING! Kansas City boasts dozens of terrific indoor pools (discover more when you click “Going Places” on KCParent.com)! From lap pools to full indoor water parks complete with slides, lazy rivers and more, there is something for swimmers of every age!

•

Best Bang for Your Buck: Many local community centers offer terrific indoor pools with additional amenities. Our three favorites for inexpensive but fun-filled options: Olathe Community Center has a leisure pool with zero-depth entry, lazy river, rock climbing walls and two water slides. Legacy Park Community Center in Lee’s Summit features a 141-foot-long figure-eight water slide, spray features, large play area and a zero-depth beach entrance. Belton Community Center features an

indoor aquatic center offering state-ofthe-art features for all ages, including a recreation pool and two slides.

•

Polar Plunge! For the truly daring, there is nothing like the Polar Plunge, a dive into one of Kansas City’s lakes on a freezing cold winter day! Missouri (SOMO.org/ plunge) and Kansas (PlungeKS.org/plunge/ kansascity) both host Polar Plunge events throughout the winter to benefit the Special Olympics. All proceeds support local Special Olympics athletes. Register in advance online.

Take a Swing! Does your child dream of being the next all-star baseball player? Beat cabin fever with a day at an indoor batting cage. You’ll find a guide to local batting cages when you click “Going Places” on KCParent.com.

•

Learn about the Monarchs. The Negro Leagues Baseball Museum in the heart of the Jazz District is dedicated to preserving and presenting the history of Negro Leagues Baseball, including the KC Monarchs. Interactive exhibits appeal to fans of all ages. For information, call 816.221.1920.

PACK A PICNIC Picnics are even better in the winter! You don’t have to worry about bugs, heat or crowds, and your family will make fabulous memories with a picnic at one of our favorite outdoor winter venues.

•

Picnic with a Polar Bear! The Kansas City Zoo is a favorite summer outing for many families. Did you know it is open year-round? In fact, winter is one of the best times to visit, as the animals are especially playful and crowds are small. The indoor exhibits, including the Helzberg Penguin

Kansas City Zoo kcparent.com january 2017

Wi n

m ro

un in KC F r

winter FUN GUIDE! EAT OUT: KC boasts several super fun restaurants for families, but the ultimate top pick for KC kids is consistently Fritz’s Railroad Restaurant (three locations: 250 N. 18th St., Kansas City, KS, 913.281.2777; first floor Crown Center, 2500 Grand, Kansas City. MO, 816.474.4004; or 13803 W. 63rd St., Shawnee, 913.375.1000). Model trains deliver burgers and shakes to your table.

W A

AtoZ

inter doesn’t have to be boring! Have fun with the kids in KC with our ideas from A to Z:

ART: Create your own masterpiece to take home at the free Kaleidoscope (2500 Grand, Kansas City, MO, 816.274.8300, HallmarkKaleidoscope.com). The glow-in-the-dark room, melted wax, watercolor paint dryer and jigsaw puzzle maker inspire creativity.

BANKING: The Money Museum (1 Memorial Dr., Kansas City, MO, 816.881.2683) is a free museum where you’ll learn how the Federal Reserve Bank works and its role in the U.S. economy. Peek into one of the nation’s largest cash vaults, create your own monetary artwork and view coins from each U.S. presidential administration.

CERAMICS: Paint your own ceramic creations at a local pottery shop. They supply the ceramics, the paints and the brushes…you just supply the creative budding artists! Paint, Glaze and Fire (12683 Metcalf Ave., Overland Park, 866.662.2188) or Ceramic Cafe (9425 Mission Rd., Leawood, 913.383.0222).

DONUTS. Grab a dozen of your favorite breakfast treats or visit KCParent.com to find a new donut shop to try. For a fun field trip head to Donutology (Donutology.com) where you can top your donuts to make your own unique treat!

kcparent.com january 2017

G H

GALLERY: Embark on a quest for hidden art with our exclusive scavenger hunt for the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art (4525 Oak, Kansas City, MO, 816.751.1238) found on KCParent.com. HILLS: Weather permitting, take the family sledding! Visit KCParent.com for a list of the best sledding hills in Kansas City!

ICE SKATE: Take a spin around the ice at one of the metro’s rinks! Indoor: Silverstein Eye Center’s Arena (19100 E. Valley View Pkwy., Independence, 816.795.7577), Ice Sports Arena (19900 Johnson Dr., Shawnee, 913.441.3033), Line Creek Paradise Park Community Center Ice Rink (5940 NW Waukomis Dr., Kansas City, MO, 816.513.0760). Outdoor: Crown Center Ice Terrace (2500 Grand Blvd., Kansas City, MO), the Ice at Park Place (11565 Ash St., Leawood), Linden Square (NE 70th & N. Cherry, Gladstone), the Rink at Burlington Square (6109 NW 63rd Ter., Kansas City, MO, 816.249.2600).

JAZZ: Kansas City is known for jazz, and the American Jazz Museum (1616 E. 18th St., Kansas City, MO, 816.221.1920, AmericanJazzMuseum.com) is the perfect place to introduce young music lovers to the local genre. With wonderful hands-on exhibits and listening centers to explore, children enjoy listening to classic jazz, composing their own pieces and learning about the history of 18th and Vine.

KU WOMEN’S BASKETBALL: When the weather is frightful, head to a KU Women’s Basketball game at Allen Fieldhouse. Enjoy the Kids Zone before the game. For a schedule visit KUAthletics.com.

Donutology

FOAM FACTORY: At Paradise Park (1021 NE Colbern Rd., Lee’s Summit, 816.246.5224, Paradise-Park.com) fire foam balls at friends using compressed air devices in the Foam Factory! While you’re there, climb a rock wall or explore the Children’s Edutainment Center, with everything from a miniature grocery store and bank to an indoor water play exhibit and art center.

LEGENDS: Bundle up and spend a day walking around Legends Outlets. Shop, take in a movie, eat dinner and learn about local legends. Be sure to head to their website (LegendsShopping.com) to download a fun family scavenger hunt!

MOTORCYCLES: Harley-Davidson Factory Tours (11401 N. Congress Ave., Kansas City, MO, 816.270.8023, HarleyDavidson.com). These tours are for guests ages 12 and up. Watch the modern assembly line process firsthand as manufacturers build a motorcycle right before your eyes.

NATURE: Kansas City is home to many wonderful nature centers, two favorites include: Burr Oak Woods (1401 NW Park Rd., Blue Springs, 816.228.3766, MDC.mo.gov) offers a large aquarium of Missouri’s freshwater fish, snakes, turtles, toads and more. Lakeside Nature Center (4701 E. Gregory Blvd., Kansas City, MO, 816.513.8960, LakesideNatureCenter.org) is home to some of the best animal exhibits in the area.

OREGON, CALIFORNIA AND SANTA FE TRAILS: The trails played an integral part in shaping Kansas City. At the National Frontier Trails Museum (318 W. Pacific, Independence, 816.325.7575), you can participate in interactive exhibits as you learn about Western expansion. The Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop features tours of the farm home and Santa Fe Trail stagecoach stop, as well as actual stagecoach rides (1200 Kansas City Rd., Olathe, 913.971.5111).

P Q

PLANETARIUM: The Gottlieb Planetarium at Union Station (UnionStation.org) offers shows for $6 each, with spectacular presentations featuring starry skies. QUELL YOUR CURIOSITY: Spend a day in the shelves at the local library looking for new books and exploring sections of the library you’ve never explored before. Increase your chances of making a new discovery witha visit to a new branch.

RIDE THE STREETCAR: Explore downtown The Gottlieb Planetarium aboard the free Kansas City Streetcar and participate in our free streetcar scavenger hunt on KCParent.com.

STEAMBOAT: In 1856, the Arabia steamboat was traversing the Missouri River when her paddle wheel caught a tree snag and she sank. The treasure is now on display at the Arabia Steamboat Museum (400 Grand Blvd., Kansas City, MO, 816.471.1856).

TRAMPOLINES: Take the kids to an indoor trampoline park where they can burn off energy and have a blast! Our favorites are Sky Zone Lee’s Summit (SkyZone.com/LeesSummit) and Urban Air in Overland Park (UrbanAirOP.com).

UNDERWATER: Mahaffie Walk through an underwater Stagecoach Stop tunnel at Sea Life Kansas City (VisitSeaLife.com/Kansas-City). Enjoy up-close views of more than 5,000 sea creatures.

VOLUNTEER: Help with Harvester’s Food Pantry (Harvesters.org/give-time/volunteer-sign-up), Children’s Mercy Hospital (ChildrensMercy.org/help-our-kids/volunteer), KC Pet Project (KCPetProject.org/volunteer) or another local organization through your house of worship or school. Giving back to the community is an important part of growing up.

WIZARD OF OZ: The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures (ToyAndMiniatureMuseum.org) is home to dollhouses, miniatures and toys from yesteryear. This winter they are celebrating the world of the Wizard of Oz with a new exhibit featuring toys from the story.

X Y Z

eXplore: Try something new from the calendar on KCParent.com. YUM: Check out our Kids Eat Free Guide on KCParent.com and take the family out to eat.

ZERO: The number of days you’ll be bored with all of the above ideas!

Kansas City mom Kristina Light loves winter most of all and hopes for some snowy January days.

kcparent.com january 2017

winter FUN GUIDE!

the best day

MONDAYS

TUESDAYS WEDNESDAYS

Moms FREE Monday

Jumperoo Tue & Fri, 9:00Noon, Urban Air (Overland Park). Children 5 and under jump, play and explore the indoor trampoline park. Cost: $10/child, parents jump for free. UrbanAirOP.com

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

Power Hour 1:00-3:00, Little Monkey Bizness. Special $6 admission 1:00-3:00 on Mondays and Wednesdays. 913.631.7000, ShawneeMission. MonkeyBizness.com/open-play

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

Play at Community Center

Story Time 10:30-11:30, Jump

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

City (Belton). For only $5, enjoy a story time and unlimited play. JumpCityKC.com

Toddler Town Mon, Wed & Fri, 10:00-Noon, Roger T Sermon Center. Indoor play area for little ones. Cost: $1/child. CI.Independence.mo.us

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

Creative Story Time Tue (11:00) & Fri (10:30), Ceramic Café. Paint pottery and enjoy a story. $12/child. 913.383.0222

kcparent.com january 2017

FREE Open Play Tue-Thu, 8:00-8:00; Fri, 8:00-4:00; Sat-Sun, 9:00-Noon, Parkside Coffeehouse (Cedar Ridge Christian Church). Indoor playground and toys for children and coffeehouse. 913.393.3000 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 Family Skate Night 6:308:30, Landmark Skate (701 SE Oldham Ct., Lee’s Summit). Special skating session just for families. 816.524.2000, Landmark2Skate.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!

for fun in kc THURSDAYS

FRIDAYS

SATURDAYS

Toddler Tumbling 10:00, KC

Story Time at Wonderscope

North Community Center Bring your toddlers out for some fun exercise, while allowing them to build their motor coordination. 816.784.6100

10:30, Wonderscope Children’s Museum. Free with admission. New stories and activities each week in ArtWorks Exhibit. Wonderscope.org

First Saturday Roller Roo & Second Saturday Disney Skate 10:00-Noon, Skate

Open Play Mon-Fri, 10:004:00, Rainbow Play Systems (Olathe). Kids will enjoy running and playing on the play sets. $5/child, cash only. SwingsetsKansas.com

Junior Jaunts Third Friday of the month, 10:15-11:00, NelsonAtkins Museum of Art. Bring your baby in a stroller or carrier for an adult-focused, yet infantfriendly, mini museum tour. Free. Nelson-Atkins.org

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

City (10440 Mastin, Overland Park). Early bird skating is just $5.25/skater; $2/skate rental. 913.888.6668

Weekend Family Activities 1:00-4:00, Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art (4525 Oak St, Kansas City). Art activities led by museum guides. Nelson-Atkins.org

Lowe’s Build ’n Grow 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 Family Night 6:30, Kansas City Public Library Plaza Branch (4801 Main St). Free weekly programs include concerts, puppet shows, theater, magicians and more. 816.701.3481

Alternating Saturdays. Lowe’s stores across the Metro. Free building workshops where kids make their own mini construction projects. LowesBuildAndGrow.com

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 These events typically occur every week, but there may be exceptions. Always call ahead to verify dates and times.

kcparent.com january 2017

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

january CALENDAR

National Museum of Toys and Miniatures

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

kcparent.com january 2017

listen

eat

explore

learn

visit

The KC Symphonyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Family Series continues with Presto, Mambo! on Jan. 8 at Kauffman Center. Hear the music of the Americas with a young boy named Max. KCSymphony.org

Dine out during KC Restaurant Week Jan. 13-22. Enjoy an old favorite or explore a newly opened restaurant. Specially priced lunch and dinner menus. KCRestaurant Week.com

Over the Rainbow: Toys from the Land of Oz opens Jan. 14 at the National Museum of Toys and Miniatures. Explore playthings, books, costumes and more. 816.235.3000

Jan. 16 is a holiday for the kids, and while most schools are closed, Science City is open! Bring the kids for a day of learning while having fun! UnionStation.org

Celebrate the Grand Opening of Kansas City Young Audiences new home on Jan. 21 at 10:00. Enjoy tours of the facility, as well as performances and interactive arts experiences. KCYA.org

1 Sunday NEW YEAR’S DAY First Day Hike 10:00, Watkins Woolen Mill. Take a guided tour around Watkins Mill Lake Trail. MoStateParks.com Ice Skating Noon, Crown Center Ice Terrace. Spend the first day of 2017 skating with the family on Kansas City’s only outdoor rink. CrownCenter.com Plaza Lights Thru Jan 15, Country Club Plaza. The lights on the Plaza shine for just a few more weeks. Bring the family to experience the magic! CountryClubPlaza.com

Taste of Tinkergarten 10:00, Shawnee Mission Park. Free trial of Tinkergarten class. Meet outdoors to connect and learn through play. Pre-reg at Tinkergarten.com. Power Hour 1:00, Little Monkey Bizness. Arrive between 1:00 and 3:00 on Mondays and Wednesdays and admission is just $6 plus tax! 913.631.7000

3 Tuesday

Creative Story Time 11:00, Ceramic Café. Hear a story, create a pottery piece and enjoy a simple snack. 913.383.0222

4 Wednesday Toddler Town 10:00, Roger T Sermon Center. Kids can run and play at the indoor play area for ages 5 and under. $1/child. ci.Independence.mo.us Toddler Time 10:00, Sky Zone Lee’s Summit. The main court, Foam Zone and Sky Slam are open just for the younger set, 5 and under. SkyZone.com/leessummit

Preschool Indoor Playground 9:30, Irene B French Community Center. Kids, drive your favorite vehicle, jump in the bounce house or pretend in the kitchen. $2. 913.322.5550

Tales of the Chinese New Year 10:30, MCPL (North Oak). Ring in the Year of the Rooster with storyteller Jo Ho and her tales from China. Prereg at MyMCPL.org.

2 Monday

Story Time 10:30, Jump City. Kids enjoy story time and then stay for unlimited playtime. $5. JumpCityKC.com

Pompeii: The Exhibition Thru April, Union Station. Exhibit examines lives of the residents of Pompeii before and after the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. UnionStation.org

Colonial Groups Colonial Presbyterian Church. Connect with other parents by joining a group. Choose from over 70 at ColonialKC.org/groups.

Animal Tales 10:30, Ernie Miller Nature Center. A 30-minute program that includes stories, songs and a visit from an animal friend. Today’s theme: Hibernation. $2. 913.764.7759

Let It Snow Union Station. A variety of festive classics with animation, laser imagery and special effects, in the planetarium’s dome theater. $3. UnionStation.org

Homework Help 4:00, Jo Co Library (Central Resource). Homework help coaches help students work on a specific project or use library resources. JoCoLibrary.org

Ginormous Gingerbread House Party Thru Jan 5, Paradise Park. A laser light show and awesome holiday music make this the best interactive gingerbread house. Paradise-Park.com

& W rce t NO o i F ib h Ex

A Volcano Awakens A City Vanishes

Internationally Awarded

Kansas City’s Science Center

h n rt a e o ic r N er i e m m A re P

W!MotionPEN! E O N

at Union Station Huge New Exhibits & Open Year-Round • Fun, hands-on activities for the whole family • Educator-led workshops & demos • New science-themed activities every month

Travel Back in Time to 79 A.D. Your Journey to Ancient Italy is about to Begin!

Members Visit for FREE!

Now Open: UnionStation.org

Open Martin Luther King Jr. Day! Spend a few hours or an entire day at Kansas City’s Science Center!

ScienceCity.com

Proud to be a

Smithsonian Affiliate