KC Parent Magazine February 2016

FREE | February 2016 | KCParent.com

summer camp guide time to start planning!

w 25 ways to say i love you, kc style

tips to

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5 things to teach your kids about money

better balance

screen time at home

helping kids cope when they

lose a pet

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FEB 2016

DEPARTMENTS

CELEBRATE VALENTINE’S DAY IN KC, PGS. 12-21

FEATURES

10

Media Mix

12

Craft Corner

22

Healthy Kids

23

Faith & Family

37

Women’s Health

45

Word from Dad

SPECIAL SECTIONS

12

28

24

Party Guide

28

Camp Guide

52

Calendar of Events

48

Heart Craft

Camp Guide

Best Hostess

Create cute valentines that everyone will love

Time to start thinking about summer camp

Tips for hosting play dates, parties and more

Our cover features Campbell from Overland Park.

Cover and select interior photos by KiaBondurant.com.

FREE | February 2016 | KCParent.com

ON THE COVER

6

kcparent.com february 2016

25 Ways to Say I Love You, KC Style

14

Tips to Better Balance Screen Time

26

Summer Camp Guide

28

Helping Kids Deal With The Loss of a Pet

40

Five Most Important Things to Teach Kids About Money

42

w 25

summer camp guide time to start planning!

ways to say i love you, kc style

tips to

t t mosportan Vim

5 things to teach your kids about money

better balance

screen time at home

helping kids cope when they

lose a pet

Faster than a

MAGIC NINJA ROCKET No matter what words you use to describe your expectations for children’s emergency care, we’re happy to exceed them. In fact, each of our hospitals exceed the national benchmark for treating pediatric emergencies. Learn more at KCkidsER.com. Text “ER” to 23000 to see average wait times.*

ER CARE FOR KIDS & ADULTS Belton Regional Medical Center | Centerpoint Medical Center | ER of Brookside | ER of Olathe ER of Shawnee | Lafayette Regional Health Center | Lee’s Summit Medical Center Menorah Medical Center | Overland Park Regional Medical Center | Research Medical Center * Message and data rates may apply. For more information visit texterhelp.com. If you are having a medical emergency, call 9-1-1.

EDITOR’SLETTER FEBRUARY 2016 Publisher Michael Gimotty Michael@KCParent.com

M

Happy Valentine’s Day, Kansas City!

Check out the ALL NEW Open House Guide at KCParent.com.

Find a list of all upcoming open houses and parent information nights at private schools all over the metro.

8

kcparent.com february 2016

Margaret Sarver, Editor

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 CONTENT

Local Contributing Writers Bill Bartlett (Belton), Melissa Bellach (Overland Park), Jamie Bosse (Overland Park), Lauren Greenlee (Olathe), Jessica Heine (Olathe), Christa Hines (Olathe), Karen Johnson (Olathe), Megan Kapple (Kansas City), Gina Klein (Kansas City), Kristina Light (Kansas City), Laura McEachen (Overland Park), Jena Meyerpeter (Lenexa), Jessica Samuel (Kansas City), Melanie Yunger (Shawnee)

Mailing Address 11936 W. 119th #335, Overland Park, KS 66213 913.782.3238 phone • 913.681.5139 fax OUR PRODUCTS FREE | February 2016 | KCParent.com

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y husband and I try to get out on a regular basis for a date night. Oftentimes, a night out for us includes a meal and either a concert or movie. We were looking for some variety, and our discussions and research led us to taking dance lessons. Yep, you read that right. Two 40-somethings taking ballroom dance lessons. And it’s not like I am very graceful or coordinated. We enrolled, and for the next four to five months you could find us weekly at our local Arthur Murray studio, practicing everything from the tango to the rumba (our fave).

While you won’t catch us on Dancing with the Stars, we had a blast! Not only did we each leave our comfort zone, but it was just so much fun. We laughed and enjoyed each other’s company in a totally different way than we would at a dinner out. I encourage you and your spouse to find a new and creative date night, and I’d love for you to share your idea with me!

Not only do we think of our spouse for Valentine’s Day, but we also think of our kids and ways we can celebrate with them. Kristina Light has put together great ideas for the entire family. Find a new way to celebrate heart day, KC style, on pg. 14.

Hard to believe, but before you know it, temps will warm up and thoughts will turn to summer. Beginning with this issue, you’ll find KC Parent’s summer camp guide. You’ll find eight pages dedicated to great camps for your kids.

It’s never too early to start your camp planning. Check it out on pg. 28.

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

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Kansas City Parent Magazine is published 12 times a year by Family Media Group. It is distributed free of charge throughout the Kansas City area. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect KC Parent’s opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written permission. Kansas City Parent Magazine does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors.

All photography and letters sent to KC Parent will be treated unconditionally assigned for publication and copyright purposes and are subject to unrestricted right to edit and comment editorially. KC Parent often includes websites that may be helpful to our readers. We verify each site prior to publication. However, content changes frequently. We encourage you to use caution and discretion when visiting a website.

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

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MEDIAMIX

all the president’s men february brings new tales of presidents and black history

By McGeath Freeman

The White House: A Pop-Up of Our Nation’s Home

By Robert Sabua

Audacity Jones to the Rescue

Two Friends: Susan B. Anthony and Frederick Douglas

By Kirby Larson Best for: Girls, ages 8-12

By Dean Robbins

Best for: Ages 6-9

Illustrated by Sean Qualls & Selina Alko There is no question as to who the king of pop-up books is: Robert Sabuda. Part artist, part engineer, all storyteller. From The Wizard of Oz to Peter Pan to The White House, Sabuda brings such detail and wonder to his creations that readers are transported into the environments.

In The White House, Sabuda takes readers on a tour of the president’s home, beginning with the North Face and visiting the East Room, the Lincoln Bedroom, the Rose Garden, the Oval Office and the South Lawn of the White House. Each spread offers interesting information about the rooms and a stanza from the poem “Inauguration Day” by Richard Watson Gilder.

If you are a pop-up collector or fan of Sabuda, you won’t be disappointed. If you are interested in American history or traveling to Washington, D.C., you won’t be disappointed either. From a spread of the chandelier in the East Room to the full White House façade, each work will make you say, “Wow!”

What’s good: Amazing craftsmanship that offers a chance to create wonder.

What’s bad: The poem seemed

superfluous, but the facts added more interest.

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kcparent.com february 2016

This historical fiction is the first in a series of thrillers starring Audacity Jones, an adventurous eleven-yearold girl living in Miss Maisie’s School for Wayward Girls in Indiana. Before long she is mixed up in a mystery in our nation’s capital and has made friends at the White House stable.

Told from multiple points of view, the action keeps coming and so do the twists, turns and clues. Will Audie be successful in saving the day? Cat lovers also will enjoy the fact that Audacity’s favorite cat, Miniver, becomes a key player in how the mystery unfolds.

What’s good: Funny and exciting all at the same time.

What’s bad: Some young readers

may struggle with the 1910 setting in context with the actions of the main character.

Best for: Ages 4-8 Children who are learning about civil rights could surely use this primer about two of the movement’s huge icons: Susan B. Anthony and Frederick Douglas.

Robbins excels at including both individuals’ biographic information while simultaneously sharing their thoughts on civil rights. The illustrations use mixed media to capture the moment these two figures meet for tea and discuss why some people have rights and others don’t. Obviously, they both want all people to be treated equally. The story is intricately woven to really capture the essence of life in the late 1800s. Two Friends will be a great addition for any classroom setting.

What’s good: The engaging illustrations keep children entertained and wanting to know more.

What’s bad: Longer author’s notes

on both Susan B. Anthony’s and Frederick Douglass’ lives would have been nice.

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CRAFTCORNER

Materials Needed: • Yarn • Cardstock or Construction Paper • Large Plastic Needle

w ate, to cre ur n u f d if yo are so These be surprise make don’t wants to ne child or everyo one f or she he s! know

string heart

valentines

Practice some fine motor and sewing skills with kids of all ages by making these string heart valentines! With just a few simple supplies, anyone can create these fun textured hearts that can be turned into a Valentine or hung on the refrigerator.

These are so fun to create, don’t be surprised if your child wants to make one for everyone he or she knows!

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.

12

kcparent.com february 2016

Step One: Draw or use a template to trace a heart onto the paper with a pencil.

Step Two: Using the plastic needle, poke holes all around the outside of the drawn heart. Erase the pencil lines.

Step Three: Thread some yarn onto the needle and begin sewing by poking the needle through the holes randomly until the heart is filled with yarn lines.

Step Four: Tape the ends of the yarn onto the back of the paper to hold them in place.

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u o y e i lov Kansas City style

25 W

ways to say

ith Valentine’s Day right around the corner, surprise your loved ones with a bit of amore, Kansas City style! These are our favorite ideas for couples and families...

end “the very best” with a Hallmark S Card. The Kansas City-based company offers free self-guided tours through the Hallmark Visitors Center (2450 Grand Blvd., Kansas City, MO, 816.274.3613, HallmarkVisitorsCenter. com), where you’ll learn the history of Hallmark and watch the production processes of Hallmark cards on factory machines. And don’t leave without pressing the button to watch a gift bow made right before your eyes as a free souvenir to take home.

Cookies from McLain’s Bakery in Waldo (McLainsKC.com) have been enjoyed by generations of Kansas Citians since 1945! Buy a dozen to share with the family.

Commemorate your love with a love lock on the Old Red Bridge in Minor Park (KCParks.org/attraction/oldred-bridge-love-locks/). “The placing of love locks is a custom whereby couples affix a padlock to a bridge, fence, gate or similar fixture, so pronouncing their unbreakable and everlasting love. The Old Red Bridge is adjacent to the new bridge located on Red Bridge Road between Holmes and Blue River Road.”

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kcparent.com february 2016

Split a Skyscraper (a giant milkshake or ice cream soda meant for sharing) at Winstead’s.

(WinsteadsSteakburger.com).

The Plaza location delivers the treat with a jingle!

Buy a balloon bouquet from U.S. Toy in Leawood (USToy.com).

Tip: Bring the U.S. Toy coupon on pg. 23 when you shop!

T ake the family to a valentine themed event in Kansas City.

From daddy/daughter dances to craft projects to special shows— there is something for everyone on the calendar at KCParent.com.

T reat your sweetheart to made-from-scratch personalized chocolates from Laura Little’s Candies (LauraLittleCandy.com).

They offer free personalization on fudge hearts for your valentine!

Make a masterpiece for your special someone at a paintyour-own-canvas shop like Thirsty Palette in Leawood (ThirstyPalette. com) or the Got Art Gallery in Lee’s Summit (GotArtGallery. org). Search “Canvas Shops” on KCParent.com for more locations.

On Valentine’s Day, head to the Truman Presidential Library (TrumanLibrary.org), where you can learn about the love between President and Mrs. Truman and peruse the museum’s vast collection of love letters the two shared over the years.

Serve the kids Shatto Dairy Farm’s pink strawberry milk or baby blue cotton candy milk for breakfast. The Missouri dairy farm sells milk at local grocery stores.

ShattoMilk.com

Buy a box of chocolates from a local company. Go classic with Russell Stover (RussellStover.com) or splurge with gourmet delights from Christopher Elbow.

(ElbowChocolates.com)

ake a valentine at Kaleidoscope M (HallmarkKaleidoscope.com). After visiting the Hallmark Visitors Center,

stop in next door at Kaleidoscope, the FREE art center for children.

It’s an imaginative world where children can create their own masterpieces with a variety of supplies. February’s materials offer plenty of beautiful valentine inspiration.

Dine at the Rozzelle Courtyard Restaurant at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art (Nelson-Atkins. org), one of the most romantic settings in the city. Then, enjoy the FREE art gallery and sculpture park.

Kids love Lego and Lego bricks can spell I love you!

Head to Legoland Discovery Center at Crown Center (LegolandDiscoveryCenter.com) where you can build Lego valentines, race cars, ride theme park style rides and watch Lego films at their 4D theater.

Catch a movie. Search “Coolest Movie Theaters in Kansas City” on KCParent.com to discover the best theaters in town.

Take pictures together at local landmarks: fountains, local galleries, parks or the “Married Love” statue of Sir Winston and Lady Churchill at the Country Club Plaza.

Ride to the top of the Liberty Memorial (TheWorldWar.org) and take a photo together. With an amazing view of the city skyline, this location is one of the city’s most popular spots for marriage proposals.

Eat heart

shaped pizza from Papa Murphy’s (PapaMurphys.com), where they sell take ‘n bake pizza. Or dine in or order carry-out at Minsky’s (Minsky’s.com), where they sell the special shapes for holidays.

Make your own KC valentine tradition and share it with us on the KC Parent Facebook page at Facebook.com/KansasCityParent.

Show your KC love with a Charlie Hustle (CharlieHustleShop.com) shirt emblazened with a huge heart and the letters “KC.” The style became extra popular during the 2014 World Series when Paul Rudd was photographed sporting the tee and enjoyed a resurgence with the 2015 Kansas City Royals World Series Championship. This is one shirt that will always be in style in our book.

Kristina Light has been collecting Helzberg “I Am Loved” pins since her grandmother began the tradition when she took her shopping as a girl. Now, she continues the tradition with her daughters.

kcparent.com february 2016

15

a valentine’s day playbook for your family

Valentine’s Day isn’t just for couples in the heady throes of young love. Deliver sweet somethings to every important person in your life.

Here’s the plan for a perfectly playful V-Day for the whole family.

16

kcparent.com february 2016

Create a sweet tweets jar. Decorate

a mason jar for your child. On slips of paper, write adjectives or short sentences in 140 characters or less that describe traits you most appreciate, admire and love about him or her.

holes in the corner of each card. On paper squares, write down 52 reasons why you love or appreciate him. Paste each sentiment in the middle of a playing card. Title the deck “I love you because...” and paste it on the top card. Attach the cards with a c-clip.

Hunt for Cupid’s treasure.

Treat them to a hearty breakfast.

Challenge your kids to a scavenger hunt.

Give them clues on a trail of paper hearts or cupid cutouts. One clue leads to the next until they find a Valentine’s Day surprise.

Check online for scavenger hunt clue ideas.

“Attack” them with hearts. On each of the 13 days leading up to Valentine’s Day, Alexis Sanchez, Olathe mom of four, posts a heart-shaped note on her kids’ doors each night after they go to bed. By Valentine’s Day, their doors are covered.

“Usually it’s just characteristics I see in them or ways that they’re kind to others.

They really love this, and I even found my 8-year-old kept all his hearts from last year in a special drawer, so that’s pretty awesome,” says Sanchez, whose other children are 10, 6 and 1.

Send a singing telegram. Video

your preschooler singing a ditty like “I made this little valentine, Of red, white and blue; I made this little valentine; Especially for you!” (point at the camera). Email the file to grandparents or another relative your youngster is crazy about.

Customize cards for classmates.

Bypass the usual cartoon paper postcards and publish simple photo cards with a themed border. Last year, Sanchez attached a small bottle of bubbles to her daughter’s cards, which read, “Friend, you blow me away!”

Play the Queen of Hearts. Ace

V-Day by sending love notes in a pack of red playing cards for your beloved. Punch

Surprise your kids with heart-shaped cinnamon rolls. Instead of rolling your cinnamon roll dough from one side to the other, roll it on both sides so that each side meets in the middle forming a heart shape.

Slice and bake. Serve juice out of dollar store champagne flutes. Make a fruit salad. Cut fruits like apples, strawberries, bananas and watermelon using a heart-shaped cookie cutter.

Toy with chemistry. Put candy

conversation hearts to the test. Gather vinegar, salt water, tap water and bleach (with adult guidance). Place a candy heart in four bowls. Ask your child to hypothesize about what will happen when each liquid is dropped over the candy. Using an eye dropper, test her hypotheses. How does the candy react to different liquids? Did your young chemist’s predictions prove true?

Get those hearts pumping. Using a poster board, make a grid of nine different exercises (sit-ups, somersaults, jumping jacks, push-ups, etc). Players take turns tossing a beanbag (or other item) onto the grid. Then they roll the dice to see how many times to do the exercise their beanbag landed on. For more ideas, check out 12345 Fit-Tastic! on Pinterest, a healthy lifestyles initiative in collaboration with Children’s Mercy Hospitals.

Hug a tree. Boost your family’s feel-good

hormones by reconnecting with nature. As part of her weekly nature adventure meet-up for families, Kelly Daniels, photographer

and Overland Park mom of two, is inviting families to her 10-acre property on Valentine’s Day to play in nature. Try awareness activities like the “blindfold tree hugging adventure,” in which participants are blindfolded and guided to a tree in the woods.

“They get to know the tree just by feeling it, smelling it, listening to the sounds around them and feeling the direction of the sun.

Then they go back out of the woods, remove their blindfold and go back to find their tree,” Daniels says. “It’s all about using awareness with all of your senses, not just your eyes.

We’ll talk about how to love not only with eyes, but also with feelings.”

To learn more, visit “Family Nature and Adventure Club—Blue River Forest School” on Meet-Up.com.

Rev up date night. In the whirlwind

of parenting, life as a couple can get routine.

Plan an outing with your sweetheart that’s playful and gets you out of your dinnerand-a-movie rut. For example, lift off in a hot air balloon ride, go dancing, take a couples cooking class at the Culinary Center of Kansas City (themes on Friday nights are usually geared toward couples), paint together at a drop-in paint-and-sip studio.

Or head to one of Kansas City’s best jazz clubs, the Majestic, which is located in a historic downtown building.

w

Freelance journalist Christa Melnyk Hines and her beloved valentine of nearly 20 years share their hearts and home with two active children, a pair of nutty dogs and a cricket-lovin’ lizard.

Christa is the author of Happy, Healthy & Hyperconnected: Raise a Thoughtful Communicator in a Digital World.

Did you know?

w Valentine’s Day dates back to the ancient Roman fertility festival called Lupercalia. w The first written valentines were sent in the 15th century. w Today, an estimated 1 billion V-Day cards are exchanged annually. w As many as 6 million couples get engaged on Valentine’s Day each year.

Source: History.com kcparent.com february 2016

17

! s s o r G . . . w Ew

why displaying affection with your spouse is actually good for your kids

T

5

he sparks and fireworks of marriage often come to a halt once children come into the picture. Newlywed snuggle time and the little kisses and hugs that once took place off and on throughout the day suddenly take a backseat to a new life of nursing newborns, chasing after toddlers and running tots to soccer games, dance and other activities. Romantic life as we once knew it often fizzles out. Many of us become more reserved about displaying our affection in front of the children, too. After all, isn’t it inappropriate for them to see? Experts say no. A healthy display of affection is actually good for everyone in the house.

Displaying affection outwardly shows our children what a loving relationship looks like, and home is the best place for them to learn this. Children who watch TV probably have seen what an unhealthy relationship looks like. Showing affection openly with your spouse gives youngsters a much better example of the care and respect they should expect. And although they may think it’s gross when they see you and your spouse kiss, deep down, it makes them feel more secure. When Mom and Dad are happy together, it creates a happier family.

“I believe showing affection in front of your children is important because it shows empathy and sensitivity. Plus, you are sharing what love is about,” says Independence mom Vickylyn Acuna. “My husband and I are affectionate by hugging each other, kissing each other, and we are constantly rubbing each other’s backs or arms. We also sit next to each other and cuddle when watching television or movies.”

If it’s been a while since you’ve hugged or kissed your spouse in front of your children, try taking baby steps into openly showing more loving affection around the house. Here are some suggestions that might help you feel more comfortable:

5 Hold hands more. Whether you’re walking through a store,

watching a movie or driving in the car, let your children see that Mom and Dad love and care for one another.

5 Give spontaneous kisses and hugs. Surprise your significant

other with G-rated kisses and big bear hugs when he/she is least expecting it. (Remember that family is still a social setting, so use common sense. Remember social rules and boundaries and keep the sexy stuff for the bedroom.)

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kcparent.com february 2016

5 Tell your spouse, “I love you,” in front of the children.

5 Do nice things for each other. Leave little love notes on the

5 Be playful together. Laugh together. Play games and be silly.

5 Make eye contact with each other when talking. Children need

modeling they learn how to think and behave. Ultimately, we want our children to know how to express and receive affection in healthy ways. When children grow up in a loving home, they will naturally be drawn to a life partner who also holds these familiar qualities.

“Our kids don’t think it’s gross or weird at all when my husband and I show affection. I think it’s because we have always shown this affection since they were little; they grew up around it from the start,” Acuna says. “It’s also another way we express how we feel without using words. We have a son who doesn’t express himself verbally, but does so through affection instead.”

According to the experts, children’s seeing happy parents together breeds emotional health. They may pick up things from social media and movies, but the most important lessons come from the parents. Children need good role models because it’s through

Kansas City mom and author Gina Klein and her husband always show affection in fun and loving ways around their home and daughters: hugs, kisses, sweet notes and being silly together. It’s important!

bathroom mirror, prepare your significant other’s favorite meal or give him/her a shoulder massage after work. PDAs can take many forms! This will show your children how loving people take care of each other.

to see this, especially in today’s technology-driven world.

Budget-friendly date night ideas to consider the next time your children spend the night with grandparents:

• Cook together. Go shopping together for ingredients

• Visit the video arcade. Who doesn’t love to play video

and then spend the evening together trying out new recipes.

games? Be a kid again and have fun playing together.

• Picnic in the living room. Who needs the outdoors and bugs? Spread out the picnic blanket inside and have fun snuggling and feeding each other.

• Roller skate. Yes! Tap into your inner child. Do the limbo, laugh, make fools of yourselves and drink frozen Cokes.

• Take a hike. It’s free, healthy and the perfect way to see some great sights.

For more great date night ideas, visit KCParent.com!

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eekends are often used to catch up. We catch up on sleep, errands and everything modern life demands of us as parents. But do we let our kids do the same?

In their book, The Over-Scheduled Child: Avoiding the Hyper-Parenting Trap, Alvin Rosenfeld, MD, and Nicole Wise caution parents that overscheduling children leads them to the same stress-related health and psychological problems overscheduled adults experience. More than a quarter century ago, Dr. David Elkind cautioned parents about the consequences of loading adult expectations onto children in his groundbreaking book The Hurried Child. In his newer introduction, Dr. Elkind warns that childhood obesity, school violence, media messages through technology and the general commercialization of childhood are redefining children and parenting.

Parents often feel caught between preparing children for the future and protecting them from societal ills.

With all this in mind, perhaps this Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to examine how we use our weekends as families. After all, weekends afford us the

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perfect opportunity to have fun. Zig Ziglar may have said it best: “To a child, love equals time.”

Schooldays can be so structured and regimented with tutoring sessions, soccer practice, homework and chores. Kids may look forward to doing nothing on weekends. If we aren’t careful, though, we can overbook their weekends too. We can send them to Saturday camps, tutorials or competitions. We may schedule playdates with children of the college educated set so their vocabularies expand, make stimulating visits to educational museums and take day treks to the zoo. These are worthy, educationally stimulating and purposefully fun activities. However, it is also important that we balance the scheduled time with some lighthearted spontaneous moments of joy that celebrate the wonder of childhood and parenthood.

It may seem counterintuitive to keep a list of possible spontaneous activities to cultivate, but the truth is, many of us simply aren’t good at letting go and having fun. Review the list below as a reminder to seize weekend moments and simply enjoy each other. The list is meant to help you watch for and catch

the moments as they come and create more carefree weekends. Add to the list below to make your own homespun memories.

Kids meal night! Children will usually eat what they have a hand in cooking. Kids meal night means the children in the family are responsible for planning and cooking.

For younger children, keep a snow day fun box and pull it out on bad weather days. Fill it with new markers, glitter glue, old magazine pictures, scissors and cardstock. Let the kids loose to create a work of art.

Play! Play in the rain or snow with your child and enjoy your child’s smiles and giggles with no agenda or time limit.

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For older kids, organize old family photos into albums or start a scrapbook of a beloved family vacation. Talking about the memories can help kids relive the experience and draw you closer.

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Portraits. Buy a new box of crayons and draw portraits of each other.

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Picnic. Pack a picnic lunch and go to the park to eat if weather permits. Or create your own indoor picnic using a blanket on the floor of your living room or den.

Spring prep. Make a bird feeder in preparation for the spring.

Storytelling. Tell stories to each other.

The listener gets to provide the first line and characters to the storyteller.

Rock out! Put on your favorite music and rock out together! Get your groove on and give your kids a spontaneous dance lesson.

Dog wash. Wash the dog together and get wet!

How will you spend your time this valentine’s weekend?

Laura Reagan-Porras, MS, is a parenting coach, parenting journalist and family sociologist. She can be reached for parent coaching sessions and teen issues about behavior, communication and homework through her website at Heart2HeartParents.com.

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HEALTHYKIDS

five heart healthy tips for kids

P

eople celebrate Valentine’s Day by giving one another heart-shaped candies and goodies. Artists write songs about broken hearts, and we often talk about our hearts in regard to our feelings and emotions. What we may not discuss with our children is the purpose of our heart as a muscle and its usefulness in pumping blood through the body. Most of our kids are born with a healthy heart and it’s important to keep it that way. While heart disease is known as an adult problem, we can do things from an early age to keep it healthy for as long as possible. Genetics can play a large

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kcparent.com february 2016

part in our health but so can many other factors over which we do have control. Here are five tips for keeping kids’ hearts healthy.

1. Daily activity. Physical inactivity is one of the greatest risk factors for developing coronary artery disease. The American Heart Association recommends that children and adolescents participate in at least 60 minutes of physical activity a day.

This activity should be something the child enjoys and is age appropriate. This activity doesn’t have to be 60 minutes in a row; it could be broken up into segments that fit the child’s schedule. Make it fun—bonus points if parents are involved!

2. Eat the rainbow. After all the running

around and playing, refueling with healthy foods is important. Fruits and vegetables offer the greatest protection against heart disease, and we should eat as many a day as we can.

The expression “eat the rainbow” comes from not only having these foods on your plate at meal time, but having them in a variety of colors—red, orange, green, yellow, etc.

3. Fewer saturated fats. Saturated fats

are also known as the bad fat. These fats are solid at room temperature, increase blood cholesterol and are most often found in meats,

dairy and sweets. Less than 10 percent of daily calories should come from saturated fats (2010 dietary guidelines). Fish, nuts and avocados are good sources of protein that won’t increase the risk of heart disease (Med.UMich.edu).

4. Fiber. Fiber is found in grains, legumes,

beans and certain fruits and vegetables. Its benefits include not only keeping the digestive tract healthy, but also decreasing cardiovascular risk, slowing the progression of cardiovascular disease and reducing LDL, the bad cholesterol.

5. No smoking. Children who smoke or

are exposed to secondhand smoke have an increased risk of heart disease as they get older. The goal should be for both parents and child to quit smoking if they already smoke and to avoid secondhand smoke when possible (DownToEarth.org).

Developing healthy habits is possible if you keep a positive outlook, are realistic, get the whole family involved and, most importantly, have fun. Starting these behaviors and activities early can make them lifelong habits.

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.

FAITH&FAMILY

a family focus 2 Corinthians 9:8 And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work.

I

f your family were to choose one Bible verse to focus on this year, what would it be? Could it reside in a place where you would see it often and discuss its changing implications for each day, week and month?

Would it give your family a common focus for prayers and dinnertime conversations?

When we send our children out the door and into an unpredictable world, we want them to have a foundation of God’s unchanging truth. The Bible is full of people, stories, promises and principles to choose from depending on your family’s season of life. We chose 2 Corinthians 9:8: “And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work.”

It would take a lifetime to unpack all 2 Corinthians 9:8 means, but we hope that by

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giving it 12 months’ worth of devotion, we can begin to know more about how to live as humble recipients of God’s grace, lacking for nothing and fully equipped to be generous in giving away the grace we’ve received.

We pray to be a family that recognizes God’s grace trumps every hand dealt in this lifetime.

Maybe your family is coming off a season of change and needing to remember the unchanging character of God described in James 1:17: “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.”

If your family is like mine and venturing into the teen years for the first time, then perhaps Ephesians 2:10, “For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in

Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago,” will be a welcome reminder that we are who God says we are and not creations of our peers or popular culture.

The amazing thing about God’s Word is that it’s “living and active” (Hebrews 4:12) and “it shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose” (Isaiah 55:11). Pray about it with your family and choose a passage to narrow your focus throughout this year. Read it in the morning, pray over it often and memorize it together. It’s a small investment of faith that is sure to have multiplied returns.

Faith & Family columnist Jena Meyerpeter writes from Lenexa, KS. You can follow more of her writings at UnravelGrace.com

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better balance screen time

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ith mobile devices readily available anywhere and everywhere, striking a healthy balance between online and in-person interaction is difficult for today’s families.

How do we find a happy medium between quality family time and the siren song the pixelated forest of apps, games and social media generates?

According to Common Sense Media, mobile media use among children ages 0 to 8 years has doubled from 38 percent to 72 percent since 2011. On average, kids spend a little more than an hour a day on the devices, downloading apps, playing games and watching videos.

“Perhaps my biggest concern about the overuse of technology in families is ‘opportunity costs,’ which is an economic term that means that time spent in front of a screen is time not spent engaging in healthier and more meaningful activities such as family time, exercise, faith, culture, education, etc.,” says Dr. Jim Taylor, psychologist and author of Raising Generation Tech.

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kcparent.com february 2016

simple tips for a happier family find your middle ground.

Overexposure to media can lead to poor school performance, obesity, sleep deprivation and invasions of privacy.

But banning kids from technology can effectively shut down conversations about appropriate media use, spurring kids to sneak around, creating accounts and playing games on friends’ devices where you have no oversight.

“Technology use becomes unhealthy when it hurts physical or mental health, relationships, school work or healthy avocations like sports, music and charity,” Taylor says. “The bottom line is that technology should be the exception and not the rule: a tool, not a toy.”

use time wisely.

Make the most out of the time your child engages with technology by choosing educational apps and games. Although kids may be attracted to games featuring casino-like sounds and colors, these weren’t developed for kids and they can be addictive.

“It’s important that you dictate the way your child goes down the path of gaming. I’m not a big fan of allowing kids free rein of time wasters because that’s just sunken time,” says David Lord, CEO of JumpStart, a gaming company that produces learning games for kids like the popular MathBlaster app and DreamWorks’ School of Dragons, a science game based on the movie How to Train Your Dragon.

be a healthy role model.

A 2012 Google study found that 90 percent of us engage in multiple screens at once, like watching television while also scrolling through a smartphone.

Kids will follow your lead when it comes to how you interact with electronics.

Become conscious of how much you use technology and whether you engage with technology in a healthy way.

designate tech-free spaces.

Silence or put away electronics during homework and chore time and during

family-oriented activities. Meals in particular present a rich opportunity to connect with your kids without electronic distractions.

“We no longer plant vegetables or quilt on the front porch together, so mealtime is one of the few times of the day when a family connects with one another,” says Dr. Anne Fishel, author of Home for Dinner: Mixing Food, Fun and Conversation for a Happier Family and Healthier Kids. “If family members are distracted by checking their phones and other screens, they miss out on the chance to really focus on each other and convey that essential message: ‘You come first.’”

Studies find that families who eat dinner together experience lower rates of substance abuse, depression and teen pregnancy. Kids who regularly eat dinner with their families are also more likely to have higher self-esteem, better grades and even stronger vocabularies.

set limits.

“Cell phones, computers, the Internet and tablets are not rights––they are privileges. And like any privileges they need parameters and rules for their use,” says Dr. Michael Osit, a child psychologist and author of Generation Text: Raising Well-Adjusted Kids in the Age of Instant Everything. “Be firm with time limits and content limits.”

If you have trouble keeping track of how much time your kids spend playing video or computer games, set a timer.

“Only one hour a day or only after other important priorities have been fulfilled, like homework and household chores,” Taylor advises.

The lights and sounds electronic devices make can interfere with quality sleep.

Collect your kids’ phones and electronic devices at bedtime and plug them into a main charging station in your home.

plan ahead.

Decide when, where and for how long you will allow computer time—mobile or otherwise—during the week.

Also consider the amount of television your family watches. Plan which TV

shows your children can view during the week to avoid mindlessly turning to television whenever boredom sets in.

Viewing family-oriented shows together can invite conversation opportunities like “What would you do if something like that happened to you or one of your friends?”

To prepare for unplugged times, meet as a family to come up with alternate activities you and your kids can enjoy that aren’t screen-related. For example, go on a family walk, play board games, toss the football, ride bikes, build, read, cook, draw or explore your community.

engage with technology together.

According to researchers at Arizona State University, gaming together offers teachable moments to share values and explore creative problem solving.

“Parents miss a huge opportunity when they walk away from playing video games with their kids. Many video games are meant to be shared and can teach young people about science, literacy and problem solving,” says researcher Elisabeth Hayes, Delbert & Jewell Lewis Chair in Reading & Literacy and professor in Arizona State University’s Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College.

Use technology together in other ways to strengthen communication skills and creativity. Invite your child to Facetime or Skype with grandparents. Show her how to start a private blog about one of her favorite subjects. Take digital photos together and collaborate on a photo book or a calendar.

By taking a proactive, balanced approach to technology with boundaries firmly in place, you can focus on using technology to complement rather than control your life while growing closer and happier as a family.

Control the games and apps your child downloads by implementing a parentcontrolled password into your device.

Some electronic devices and software allow you to set time limits on games and online activity.

For helpful reviews of apps, games and other media, check out CommonSenseMedia.org.

Did You Know?

The amount of screen time among children has tripled in the past three years. A 2011 study conducted by the Kaiser Foundation found that kids spend an astonishing average of seven hours a day in front of screens.

Are you role modeling technology in a healthy way? Consider these questions and grow more conscious of your technology use: • Do you frequently scroll through your phone while your children (or others) try to talk to you?

• Do your incoming calls or texts usually trump inperson conversations?

• Do you text while driving?

Olathe mom Christa Melnyk Hines and her husband are the parents of two boys who are charmed by all things digital. Christa’s latest book is Happy, Healthy & Hyperconnected: Raise a Thoughtful Communicator in a Digital World. kcparent.com february 2016

27

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Interactive Education Guide available at KCParent.com

KC Parent’s

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Accelerated Schools

Cosmosphere

Accelerated Schools of Overland Park offers two summer programs from June 13 through July 29. High School students can earn credit for courses such as math, science, English, Spanish and social studies. Students entering 4 to 8 grade can attend the Academics & Arts Summer Camp, focusing on individualized academic tutoring as well as creative expression. Call 913.341.6666 for further information. See display ad on pg. 33. www.AcceleratedAchoolsOP.org

From second graders through high school seniors, Cosmosphere campers spread their wings, expand their minds, and have fun they won’t find anywhere else on Earth. Camps include Space 101-501, Mars Academy, Forces of Flight, and Space Medicine.

Building robots and rockets, SCUBA training like astronauts, interplanetary missions to solve a crisis, learning to fly, understanding the medical demands of long duration space travel…those are just some of ways your child can spend the summer. See display ad on pg. 35. www.Cosmo.org

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Imagine spending a week feeding lemurs, walking llamas, grooming miniature horses, and playing with puppies and parrots! Choose from over 100 activities, sleep comfortably in spacious, airconditioned cabins, enjoy a variety of delicious meals, and learn from some of the friendliest and fun staff around! www.MoScienceCamp.com. If you’re looking for more adventure, check out our teen travel and adventure program on the island of Jamaica! AnimalCampJamaica.com.

See display ad on pg. 34. Ask for free brochure! 573.458.2125.

Spend your summer at The Culture House!

Our 2016 summer programs include dance, theater, music and art ... all taught by professionally trained adults. “Addam’s Family” (ages 13-19), “Disney’s High School Musical (ages 9-13), “Disney’s Aristocats” (ages 6-9), Art Camps, Broadway Showtunes, Songs from Matilda, Fairytale Ballet, Hip Hop, Minion Mania, Let’s Make a Movie & more! PLUS our summer production of “Big Fish” (ages 8-adult) at The Kauffman Center! Openings limited!

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The Jewish Community Center provides day camp activities for boys and girls ages 2–13 years. Exciting activities include swimming, sports, drama, crafts, field trips and special events. Specialty camps: Sports, Theatre, Art, Dance, Lego and Triathlon Camp.

Youth don’t have to be Jewish or members to attend. Sessions are Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. from June 6 through August 5. Extended care available. Costs vary from $230-390 per week. See display ad on pg. 33. www.JcampKC.org.

Johnson County Park & Recreation District Come grow with us! From Outdoor Discovery to Just for Fun, we offer over 65 different and well-supervised camp programs conveniently located throughout Johnson County. Dedicated to providing activities that promote emotional, intellectual and physical health, our summer fun choices include nature and science, preschool enrichment, art, sports, computers, leadership development, and music, theatre and dance. The options include both indoor and outdoor programs, and full and partial day schedules are available. For details, call 913.831.3359 or visit www.jcprd.com/activities/camps.cfm.

See display ad on pg. 32.

Kansas City Ballet Kansas City Ballet School Summer Programs include once-a-week classes and four-day ballet camps for children age 3-9.

Camp themes include Fairy Princesses and Frozen. Additional courses and workshops available for ages 8-18. Classes begin June 6th. Enroll today to guarantee your child’s spot. Two convenient locations: Downtown and Johnson County. See display ad on pg. 31. For more information visit www.KCBallet.org or call 816.931.2299.

continued on page 32

CAMPGUIDE

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or several years, a friend and I planned a co-op camp for our kids. It was loads of fun to plan and execute! Read on to find out how to plan a camp in just four easy steps.

Find Friends

Find another family (or two) that shares both kids near the same age and a schedule similar to yours. We have good friends who have daughters the same age as ours, so it was a natural fit. I work from home, and my friend works for a school, so we are both fortunate to have flexible schedules.

Think of a Theme

Once you decide who’s part of the camp, the fun begins! You can choose a theme together or on your own. We come up with our own theme and then make sure there is

no overlap. Find what interests you and then turn it into a camp theme. The internet is a virtual wonderland when it comes to ideas to support your themes. Spend a couple of hours researching on Pinterst and you’ll have camp planned in no time.

Determine Details Next, find two mutually agreeable dates that work for the camps. You’ll need to decide several things. How long is camp—half day or full day? How will lunch and snacks be handled—will kids bring it to camp or will the host provide? What about cost for supplies and field trips? Will each host foot the bill for her week of camp, or will you collect monies for supplies? Working out these details beforehand will make for a smoother camp experience.

Make Memories

Be sure to take lots of photos throughout the week. If you, like me, aren’t the best at remembering to take pictures, assign a camp photographer. Also take notes on what you did each day. After camp ends, use Snapfish or a similar site to put together a camp book. Once camp has closed and the lazy, crazy days of summer are just a memory, your kids will love reliving the details through their camp book—and I can guarantee they’ll already be looking forward to the next year!

KC Parent Magazine editor Margaret Sarver enjoys preparing for her favorite season of all from her home in Lenexa with her husband and two daughters.

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CAMPGUIDE Paint, Glaze & Fire Ceramics & Coffee House Camp ARTRAGEOUS! Paint Glaze & Fire Ceramics & Coffee House is offering summer camp for its 19th season! Your child will learn new techniques and have fun creating art in our multi-medium camps (ceramics, clay, canvas & glass fusion). Class size is limited - sign up early! Check it out online and find more information as well as a registration form at www.PaintGlazeAndFire.net. For more information on these and many other fun and creative programs, visit the website. See display ad on pg. 30. 913.661.CLAY (2529).

Quest June 6th-10th. Scuba Diving, Color Wars, Laser Tag, Roller Skating, Dunk Tanks, Bandana Hunts and Water Parks are just some of activities that you could experience at QUEST. Quest is summer day camp for students entering

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Registration fills up quickly. Check out www.vineyardop.org/quest for more information and to reserve your spot today.

See display ad on pg. 33.

Summer at Barstow Summer at Barstow offers a unique and spectacular camp experience for children ages 3-14 in Academics, Sports, Arts and Enrichment. There are more than 400 programs in the visual and performing arts, science, technology and more! Summer at Barstow 2016 runs May 31 through August 5 with extended care available to all campers. Catalog available online now at www.barstowschool.org/summer. Contact summer@barstowschool.org or 816.277.0445 for information or to request a catalog.

Enrollment begins Feb. 15! Join us at Summer at Barstow and create smiles to last a lifetime! See display ad pg. 31.

camp guide {by the numbers}

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VCamp June 20-24. Looking for a low-cost, fun-packed, summer day camp for your kids? At Vcamp, kids will explore what it means to follow Jesus, the Light of the World. Vcamp is for kids who have completed kindergarten to fourth grade and runs from 10:00 am to 4:30 pm daily.

Students bring a sack lunch each day. $40 for the week includes snacks, supplies, and wraparound care is available at no additional charge.

Register at www.vineyardop.org/vcamp by June 1. See display ad on pg. 30.

Camp

Fun camps for kids 2-13 YMCA Is your child ready to have their best summer ever? Y Summer Day Camps are full of learning, adventure, active play and friendship! Traditional camps offer exciting themes weekly. Specialty camps include outdoor, art, sports, engineering and community service. And our Adventure Camp keeps teens excited and engaged throughout the summer. Locations include Blue Valley, Center, Olathe, Platte County, Shawnee Mission and Spring Hill School Districts; Camp Naish; North Kansas City; and Riverside. Ages 3-18. Learn more and register at www.YMCASummerFun.org. See display ad on pg. 68.

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Youth-Arch Diocese of KCK Camp Tekakwitha offers horseback riding, high rope challenges, canoeing, hiking, rock climbing, rappelling, basketball, soccer, swimming, mountain boarding, archery, volleyball, mountain biking, 3 story waterslide, Bible studies, numerous Catholic prayer experiences and other outdoor camp activities. Camp Tekakwitha is a powerful spiritual experience that leaves the campers excited to return year after year. Camp Tekakwitha is operated by the Archdiocese of KC in Kansas. Full information is available at our website under youth. 785.746.5693. See display ad on pg. 34. www.ArchKCK.org

kcparent.com february 2016

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Being Away from Home

builds self-esteem, independence

O

ne of the many joys of parenthood is helping children navigate new waters. And while these situations often are met with hesitation, slight anxiety—or in the case of some firsttime campers, homesickness—it is these moments that develop the 21st-century skills needed in adulthood. New situations, such as going away to camp, serve as teachers in life’s classroom, developing leadership, self-esteem, teamwork, independence and problem-solving.

Parents’ helping children overcome any feelings of hesitation helps children grow.

Take camp, for example. From a child’s perspective, camp is fun, fun, fun! Parents know that camp provides innumerable growth opportunities and can be a vital part of childhood. As the day approaches, even the most excited campers sometimes get nervous about being away from home.

“Homesickness is completely normal,” Michael Thompson, consultant, author and psychologist, says in a recent PBS

Parents article*. “If a child loves his or her parents and has a good home, why wouldn’t he or she feel some longing for Mom, for Dad, for the dog or for home cooking?”

Parents’ job then is to help ease the transition to camp and help their children grow from the experience. The American Camp Association (ACA) offers the following advice to help alleviate anxiety and get a jump start on life’s lessons. n Encourage independence throughout

the year. Practice separations, such as sleepovers at a friend’s house, can simulate the camp environment.

n Involve children in the process of

preparing for camp. The more they own the decision, the more comfortable they will feel being at camp.

Camp Tekakwitha A Catholic Adventure Camp

Camp Tekakwitha A Catholic Adventure Camp

Camp Tekakwitha offers horseback riding, high rope challenges, canoeing, hiking, rock climbing, rappelling, basketball, soccer, swimming, mountain boarding, archery, volleyball, mountain biking, 3 story The camps offerwaterslide, horseback riding, highBible ropestudies, challenges, numerous canoeing, hiking, rockCatholic climbing, prayer experiences repelling, basketball, soccer, andultimate other outdoor swimming, frisbee, camp activities. group party games, mountain boarding, archery, volleyball, Camp Tekakwitha mountainisbiking, outdoor a powerful camping,spiritual softball, experience bible studies, numerous catholic that leavesprayer the experiences and other outdoor campers excited camp activities.

Camp to return yearis a powerful spiritual experience after year.

that leaves the campers excited to return year after year.

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Camp CAMP Tekakwitha TEKAKWITHA Prairie Star Ranch Prairie Star Ranch 1124 California Road Williamsburg, KS Road 66095 1124 California

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CAMPGUIDE n Make sure to understand the camp’s

philosophy on how issues, such as homesickness, are addressed. Talk candidly with the camp director to understand his/her perspective on the adjustment to camp life.

n Discuss what to expect at camp before

leaving for the fun. Consider role-playing anticipated situations, such as using a flashlight to find the bathroom.

n Reach an agreement ahead of time on

calling each other, but make sure to honor the camp’s policy on phone calls.

n Send a note or care package ahead of

time to arrive the first day of camp.

Acknowledge missing the child, in a positive way. For example, saying “I am going to miss you, but I know that you will have a good time at camp,” lets the camper know his family is thinking about him but confident in his ability to adapt to camp.

Encourage independence throughout the year.

Practice separations, such as sleepovers at a friend’s house, can simulate the camp environment. n Pack a personal item or two from home,

such as a stuffed animal.

n Avoid bribing behaviors. Families send

the wrong message when they link a successful stay at camp to a material object. Families should focus on the real rewards—like newfound confidence and independence.

n Don’t plan an exit strategy. If a “rescue

call” comes from the child, offer calm reassurance and put the time frame into perspective.

While most incidents of homesickness pass quickly, parents know their child best.

If parents have concerns (for example, the child is not eating or sleeping or appears overly anxious), they should immediately talk to their camp director. Camp staff are trained to identify and ease homesickness and are a valuable resource for parents, as well as campers. *Michael Thompson, Ph.D., “Helping Kids Beat Homesickness at Sleep-Away Camp,” PBS Parents, May 2011.

About ACA: The American Camp Association works to preserve, promote and enhance the camp experience for children and adults. ACAaccredited camp programs ensure children are provided with a diversity of educational and developmentally challenging learning opportunities. There are more than 2,400 ACA-accredited camps that meet up to 300 health and safety standards. For more information, visit ACAcamps.org.

kcparent.com february 2016

35

Schedule a regular study time in a cool, calm place filled with supplies.

your child—and whether he is showing signs of discomfort or frustration. If he is, have him take a second to relieve a little stress. Deep breaths usually work. Inhale relief and exhale stress. Have him step completely out of the work environment and back into it when he’s ready. You want to make sure the assignment gets completed, but you also want to make sure your child is learning along the way. Stress free.

4

Don’t do it for them.

Being suckered into doing homework isn’t as crazy as it may sound. Kids are tricky, and parents don’t like to see their children struggle. Especially if you can be their relief.

But guiding them and completely taking over are two completely different things.

Just make sure you let them do the work. If you do all the work, what exactly are they learning?

5 tips for helping with homework

S

chool is out for the day, you’re able to leave work on time and dinner is all planned and ready to go. The kids are streaming in, and everything seems to be going perfectly. So what is missing here?

Homework!

You want to make sure it gets done, but also done the right way. Oh, what to do, what to do?

Pay close attention—here are some keys to success!

1

Set up a homework-friendly work environment.

Schedule a regular study time in a cool, calm place filled with supplies. If your kids have the materials to be successful, that’s one less reason they might not finish their

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homework. Always have paper, pens and pencils ready to go.

2

Eliminate or keep distractions to a minimum.

Things like the television, loud music and cell phones are okay for parties or social gatherings, but not so much for an effective homework environment. Be mindful of what you allow in a place of focus. If you allow distractions to happen, you’ll only blame yourself later. Trust me.

3

Watch for signs of frustration.

It’s so easy to get caught up in whether the assignment gets finished or pushed to the side. But be conscious of the student—

Motivate, supervise and praise.

Let your children know you care. Ask about quizzes and upcoming tests. Don’t hover over them while they do their homework, but make sure you’re available to answer or walk through any difficult questions they may have. Periodically check in to make sure the work gets finished. Let them know all the great things that come from finding out the answers themselves. Last but not least, PRAISE them!

Encouragement goes a long way. If kids know they’re doing something wonderful, odds are they’ll repeat it.

Jessica Samuel is a native of St. Louis and current Kansas City resident, journalist, photographer, graduate student, ALLY.

Does your child need extra help or a tutor? Find out at KCParent.com.

WOMENSHEALTH

f

national eating disorder awareness

eb. 23-March 1 marks National Eating Disorder Awareness week. Eating disorders are serious, sometimes life-threatening, conditions that involve a person’s focusing too much on weight, body shape or image, or too much on food. The three different types of eating disorders are anorexia, bulimia and binge eating.

Decreasing the body’s intake of food can impact the body’s ability to get adequate nutrition and harm the heart, digestive system, bones, teeth and mouth. On average, eating disorders are not discriminatory against ethnic background, women or men. Eating disorders typically begin in the teen and young adult years. With extensive treatment, survivors may be able to return to healthier eating habits and hopefully, but not always, reverse some of the complications.

Symptoms vary, depending upon the eating disorder. People who suffer from anorexia nervosa tend to use extreme efforts to control their weight, usually by limiting calories, exercising excessively, using laxatives,

diet aids or vomiting after eating. Bulimia nervosa sufferers differ from anorexia nervosa sufferers in that they typically binge eat and then purge the food in an unhealthy way, similar to anorexics. A person who has a binge eating disorder regularly eats too much and continues to eat even when full. He may feel disgusted or ashamed of his eating behavior and often eat alone.

It is important for family members to know they are not at fault, but they can play a key part in their loved one’s seeking medical attention. The following are red flags that may indicate eating disorders:

• Skipping meals • Adopting an overly restrictive vegetarian

• Frequently checking the mirror for flaws • Excessive exercise • Repeatedly eating large amounts of sweets/high fat foods • Calluses on the knuckles from inducing vomiting • Problems with loss of tooth enamel due to vomiting • Leaving meals to use the toilet • Expressing depression or guilt about eating habits • Eating in secret • Use of dietary supplements, laxatives or herbal products for weight loss

whole family eats

If you are worried someone you love is suffering from an eating disorder, contact his or her doctor to discuss concerns. You also may visit NationalEatingDisorders.org.

activities

Melanie Yunger is a local wife, mom and nurse practitioner.

being fat

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

diet

• Making own meals rather than what the • Withdrawing from normal social • Persistent worry/complaining about

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kcparent.com february 2016

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10

ways for KC families to get active without spending a dime

W

inter: a time of holiday celebrations, breaks from school and hot chocolate by the fire.

Unfortunately, the winter months are also a time of year when it seems easy to forget about our health. Just because it gets dark outside at 5:00 doesn’t mean your commitment to fitness should disappear with the sun. Take the elevator, not the stairs! Bundle up and enjoy a snowball fight and sledding! Take the family ice skating!

But what about those really cold days, when you are truly stuck indoors? Here are 10 ideas to keep your family moving and grooving inside this winter.

1. Dance: Grab a lively family-friendly music CD (or use Pandora or Youtube) and get dancing! Kidz Bop and Go Noodle are great suggestions. Dancing is fun and gets the muscles moving and heart racing.

You could throw a dance party or jazz it up with a game of musical chairs, freeze in pose when the song stops or choreograph a family dance number.

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2. Paint: Know that room you’ve been wanting to repaint? Grab some paint swatches and make a family decision on color. Then hand everyone a brush and get painting. Mom and/or Dad can handle the high places and the trim, while the kids can use the rollers or brushes on larger sections.

Add in some fun by letting the kids draw or write messages to each other on the walls not yet painted!

3. Speed clean: This form of exercise achieves two effects: The family gets moving AND the house gets cleaned. Vacuum, dust, scrub floors and baseboards and scour toilets and tubs. Turn it into a game: Whoever has his/her room cleanest in one hour gets to choose a film for movie night later!

4. Indoor obstacle course: This one is just for fun and may require a bit of cleanup after, but it is worth it. Gather your pillows, blankets, soft furniture, painter’s tape, yarn, hula hoops and whatever else

you can find and create an indoor obstacle course. Here are a few ideas: • Position pillows a foot apart and hop from pillow to pillow without touching the carpet.

• Make lines on the floor with tape and jump from line to line.

• Stretch yarn across the room in multiple directions, at multiple levels and everyone climb through!

• Create an indoor hopscotch with tape.

5. Jump rope: An oldie but a goodie, jumping rope burns more calories than any other suggestion on this list. It is easy to do indoors (provided you have a bit of room) and can be done at various levels of intensity. Go for endurance: How long can you go before stopping? Jump in spurts: three minutes, rest, three minutes, rest. Then try double-jumping for an extra challenge!

6. Stair stepping: Position a step stool in front of a favorite TV show and get to stepping. No stool? Just go up and down the

stairs as many times as you safely can in 10 minutes. Take a break and do it again! Extra points and calories burned if you have light hand weights or bottled water to carry!

7. Commercial fitness breaks: Every time a commercial comes on the TV, move! For three straight minutes, do push-ups, sit-ups, planks and jumping jacks!

Go! Go! Go! The show is back on? Drink some water, rest and get ready for the next commercial!

8. Weekly sports night: Once a week, get everyone up and moving by playing sports night! Your family creates the games, like Fit-Deck Shuffle, for example.

In this game, you create a series of playing cards featuring family-friendly exercises, such as bear-crawling or crab-walking. Each family member picks a card and performs the exercise pictured until all the cards have been dealt (Parents.com).

9. Free online workout routines: Endless lists of workouts safe for the entire family appear on Youtube or various other internet sources. Suggestions: Fitness Blender Kids, Beyonce’s “Move Your Body” and Family Circle (health and fitness section). Get online, gather up the family and get moving.

10. Deep clean: Deep clean every room in your house this winter as your form of indoor exercise! Wipe the blinds, wash curtains and windows, pull all furniture away from walls and shampoo carpets.

Tackle all those corners of your house that you can never seem to get to. Your house will never be cleaner and you’ll work up a sweat using your muscles!

Olathe mom Karen Johnson has three children, ages 6, 4 and 2. She writes at The21stCenturySAHM.com.

Guess how many calories per hour these indoor activities will burn?

(Calorie count is based on a 150-lb. person working at moderate level of intensity)

• Dancing: 300 • Painting: 250 • Speed cleaning: 250 • Completing indoor obstacle course: 300 • Jumping rope: 700 • Stair-stepping: 500 • Completing commercial fitness breaks: 15 calories every three-minute interval • Participating in weekly sports night: 250 • Working out with online routines: 300 • Deep cleaning: 250 Calorie counter link: ACalorieCalculator.com

Now Enrolling!

Call to schedule a tour at one of our two campuses.

Kansas City Campus: serving ages 2–5 years 9500 Wornall Road · KCMO · 816.501.3053 Overland Park Campus: serving ages 15 months–5 years 12501 W. 137th Street · OPKS · 816.501.3952

kcparent.com february 2016

39

losing a pet

a

s parents, we want to protect our children from hurt, be it emotional pain or physical. When our families face a loss, watching our children suffer can be overwhelming and can cause parents to feel helpless. Often the first loss a child experiences is the loss of a pet. While there is no way for a parent to take the pain away completely, having some idea of what to expect and how to respond to your child’s feelings can make the stressful time a bit easier. There are things we can do as parents to help make the grieving process a little easier on the whole family.

“When we put our cat to sleep, my son was so upset. It was hard on all of us, and I hated watching him cry, knowing there was nothing that would fix it,” Crystal Plummer, Kansas City, KS, mom says. “When it came time to say good-bye to our dog, I called our pediatrician and got some tips. I felt a bit more prepared and it was easier to guide the kids through the whole experience.”

A lot of people do not realize the impact death can have on a child. “I wasn’t prepared for the wave of emotions my oldest daughter and I felt days afterward,” says Katy Lautzenhiser, Lee’s Summit mom. “Growing up on a cattle ranch in rural Nebraska, we had dozens of farm dogs that met their end under a tractor or by a passing motorist on the nearby highway. I was always sad when our pets passed, but I had never had an indoor pet. And never had I experienced the unconditional love from a pet like Skippy provided. It was as if I had lost a child, and my heart ached for weeks. My oldest and I swore we could hear the jingling of her tags through the house, days afterward. My daughters, who had known Skippy since the day they were born, were heartbroken and confused.”

While children may grieve for a shorter period of time, it can be just as intense as the grief felt by adults. As with many new experiences, children often repeat their thoughts and feelings about death. It can be less unsettling for family and family friends if they are prepared to have patience with

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While children may grieve for a shorter period of time, it can be just as intense as the grief felt by adults. the child as he speaks repeatedly about the loss and his feelings. “When my daughter told the guy at the grocery checkout that her goldfish was dead, I was so embarrassed. I just hoped the guy didn’t think we killed the fish!” says Jessica Garcia, Olathe mom. “I had to remind myself that talking about it often was part of her process. And, oh boy, she talked about it often.”

Metro moms have weighed in and here are their tips and advice for parents who are working to help a child cope with the loss of a pet: Make sure your children know it is okay to grieve. Avoid telling them things like “Don’t be sad.” If they are sad, allow them to feel sad. Let them know any emotion is okay, even anger. This will prevent the added guilt and confusion of being told their feelings are wrong.

Share the news. If your child has a teacher, babysitter or favorite neighbor with whom he spends a lot of time, make sure he or she knows about the pet’s passing.

This will keep uncomfortable moments to a minimum and give your child a wider support network.

Speak honestly. Make sure your child understands that death is permanent. If you

use terms like “put to sleep,” your child may expect the pet to wake up or may start to fear going to sleep at night. If the pet was sick, explain the kind of sickness. This keeps the child from being afraid of catching a cold or thinking you might die if you get sick.

Melissa Bellach is a freelance writer and mother of two living in Overland Park.

If your child is struggling to deal with the death of your pet, getting some outside assistance may be helpful. Consult your pediatrician or your family veterinarian for some ideas. You also may ask for a referral to a family counselor. Here are some signs that a child may need additional resources: • Not interested in usual activities, withdrawing from friends and family • Eating less than usual • Reverting to pre-potty training or bed wetting • Afraid of being alone or going to sleep, or having nightmares • Preoccupied with thoughts of death

books for dealing with pet loss The Tenth Good Thing About Barney

By Judith Viorst The story is narrated by a young boy who recently lost his cat, Barney. His mother encourages him to think of ten good things he remembers, but he can only think of nine. Later, while talking with his father he discovers the tenth—and begins to understand.

I’ll Always Love You

By Hans Wilhelm Elfie, a dachshund, and a boy spend their days together, playing and growing up. One morning, Elfie doesn’t wake up. The family grieves for their lost pet. Watercolor illustrations help in telling this story of a boy and the loss of his dog.

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Jasper’s Day

By Marjorie Blain Parker Riley’s dog, Jasper, has cancer and it has gotten really bad. The family spends a day doing everything in honor of Jasper before his last day. A celebration of his life with the family he loves before the family must let him go.

The Day Tiger Rose Said Goodbye

By Jane Yolen Tiger Rose’s kitten days are long gone and she’s grown too tired to stay, so she says goodbye to everything she has loved. A peaceful and inspiring story to help kids deal with the loss of a pet.

Laying a foundation that will last a lifetime

Now Enrolling!

Come in to tour the preschool today!

9333 West 159th Street Overland Park, Kansas 66221 913.681.7622 Visit us online at www.hcapreschool.org kcparent.com february 2016

41

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t u child abo

S

chools offer no courses in money management, so the majority of your children’s financial education will come directly from you. Either you will actively teach them the concepts or they will pick them up by observing your behaviors.

Here are the top five things to teach your kids about money before they are out on their own.

1

you have to earn it.

Many kids have no concept of where money actually comes from and how you earn it. They just assume you go to the bank or ATM and grab some when you need it. You need to inform them that money (literally) does not grow on trees and that it is earned through working.

2

it’s not how much you make, it’s how much you keep!

Kids and teens often get the impression that if they are “rich” or have a job that pays

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a large salary when they are older, then they will be able to buy all the things they want. The truth is, people at all income levels can have issues with cash flow management because cash needs vary from month to month. It doesn’t matter whether you make $30,000 per year or $1 million per year, if you spend every dime, your future is in trouble. Sure, you have all the “things” or experiences those dollars have purchased, but if you don’t save any for the future, there won’t be any money available to pay for emergencies or to use when you are no longer working. Just because a person drives a fancy car or lives in a large house does not indicate wealth. They may be living paycheck to paycheck and spending all their money as it comes in.

3

it is never too early (or too late) to start saving.

Even if a savings goal is months or years away, the sooner you start, the faster you will accomplish the goal. For example, if a child wants to purchase a $100 bike and has an allowance of $10 per week, the bike could be purchased in less than three months! Putting away $10 a week may not sound like much, but it all adds up. Teach kids the “pay yourself first” saying. Help them determine a longer-term financial goal (e.g., saving up for a bike, laptop for college, car or emergency fund) and have them allocate a certain percentage of their “income” to fund those goals BEFORE they can make any other purchases with the

money. This will help instill the mantra of paying yourself first and investing in your future before spending today.

4

the time value of money is very powerful.

By investing your money, you can make it work for you. In theory, dollars invested in a growth allocated portfolio could double every six to 10 years. This is called the “Rule of 72” and is the power of compound interest at work. To use the Rule of 72, divide the number 72 by an investment’s expected annual return. The result is the number of years it will take (roughly) for the money to double. For example, if an expected return is 9 percent, it will take eight years to double that initial investment.

The trick is to stay invested and not take funds in and out of the market as it ebbs and flows. If you are just stashing money under your mattress, you are essentially losing

money because of inflation. A loaf of bread may cost $3.00 today and $3.50 next year, so by not investing or earning interest on your money, you are losing the purchasing power of those dollars.

5

debt can be dangerous.

We live in a society that tells us we can buy whatever we want, even if we can’t afford it. Just think of all the advertisements for buying a car with no money down, quick money lending and no credit approval required. These are all sticky situations to get into and do not benefit the consumer in the end. Our kids need to learn that delaying gratification is healthy, as is not spending money as soon as they get it (or before they get it). Have them make a wish list and a spending plan for their money.

You want them to be in a position where they are telling their money what to do, not having all of their dollars going toward debt

payoff. Your kids will be bombarded with credit card offers before their 18th birthday, so teach them lessons now before they get into trouble. Teach them to make plans for their money, not to buy on credit and figure out how to pay it off later. There are “wants” and there are “needs,” and sometimes kids and teens cannot tell the difference.

The more kids know about money, the better they will be able to manage it on their own. Set them up for success by teaching them these five principles early. A great website for ideas on age-appropriate ways to teach your kids about money is MoneyAsYouGrow.org.

Jamie Bosse, CFP®, RFC, is a mother of two and a financial planner at KHC Wealth Management. Jamie loves to write, travel, barbecue, watch the Kansas State Wildcats win football games and spend time with her husband, sons and pet corgi.

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

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kcparent.com february 2016

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Respectful. A self-disciplined child will respect the authority figures in his life, viewing their role as helpful and valuable. Instead of undermining someone in leadership when he disagrees, a selfdisciplined child has the confidence to assert himself and does so through a respectful appeal.

nine traits of self-disciplined children

L

ook around you. Whiny, lazy, unmotivated kids are a dime a dozen, but self-disciplined children are few and far between. Just how can you identify a self-disciplined child and what sets him apart from all the rest? Licensed psychologist and author Sherrie Campbell suggests the following are hallmarks of a disciplined child’s make up.

greatest tragedies is that in the mix, children lose the ability to consider how other people feel. Self-disciplined children, in contrast, seek to see beyond themselves and are able to put themselves in someone else’s shoes.

Empathetic children don’t simply take pity on others from a distance but develop genuine care and understanding as they strive to relate to others and their feelings.

Self-Control. Self-control is known by

Responsible. Self-disciplined kids take pride and ownership in how they contribute at home, school and beyond. They see their role as a valuable one and strive to put forth their best effort, knowing their actions affect others as well as themselves.

many names: Willpower. Conscientiousness.

Delayed gratification. Whatever you want to call it, this practice in simple terms is the ability to regulate oneself and inhibit impulses, both of which are critical in developing emotional maturity. A selfcontrolled child not only says “no” to desirable objects in the immediate but also chooses to say “yes” to doing what is right, regardless of how he feels. This skill has far reaching effects on everything from academic success to interpersonal relationships to work habits, physical and emotional health and more.

Empathy. We live in a culture that breeds

egoism, the habit of valuing everything only in regards to personal interest, beyond all else. The result of so much self-indulgence can be unsavory, but perhaps one of the

Self-Motivated. Simply put, doing good feels good. And when making good choices brings about positive consequences, disciplined children will strive toward excellence, regardless of outside incentives or promptings, because it’s personally rewarding.

Self-Confident. Disciplined children

are confident in who they are, as they know their value is found in what they are made of, not what they can do. This deep sense of self-worth is not based on personal performance or outside validation but comes from within.

Accountable. Part of growing in maturity means learning to accept responsibility for your mistakes. Being held accountable provides room for growth, and self-disciplined children acknowledge this.

Resilient. Thomas Edison went through 1,000 failed attempts before he achieved the success of a working light bulb. When asked about it, he replied, “I didn’t fail 1,000 times. The lightbulb was an invention with 1,000 steps. Great success is built of failure, frustration, even catastrophe.”

Self-disciplined children know that not everything comes on the first try and that learning through mistakes and mishaps is perhaps the greatest outcome of a “failed attempt.”

Joyful. Ask any parents what they hope

for their children and the overwhelming response is they want them to be happy.

Ironically, when happiness is sought at the expense of personal disciplines, children flounder. A wise parent acknowledges that childhood is the training ground through which children prepare for adulthood. And self-discipline is one of the most integral parts to a successful life. When children own that for themselves, they find deep personal satisfaction. Indeed, self-disciplined children are among the happiest.

Lauren Greenlee seeks to raise confident, self-disciplined boys. She and her young family reside in Olathe.

did you know?

It pays to wait! In 1960, Columbia University psychologist Walter Mischel, Ph.D., conducted the Marshmallow Test, one of the largest studies of its kind to show the importance impulse control and delayed gratification have on academic, social and emotional success.

Mischel placed marshmallows in front of a room full of 4-year-olds and told them they could have one then, but if they waited to eat it until after he returned to the room in a few minutes, they could have two. More than 14 years of follow-up research was performed, and Mischel discovered the “grabbers” struggled with low self-esteem and were considered angry, envious and stubborn by others while the “waiters” were more socially competent, resilient, assertive, trustworthy and academically adept (even placing a whopping 210 points higher on their SATs!). Delayed gratification, Mischel concluded, trains a person to achieve long-term goals—and the sooner learned, the better.

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kcparent.com february 2016

WORDFROMDAD

happy anniversary

“S

andi, they’re both asleep.” I hurried to my closet, selected a tie and knotted it about my neck.

“I thought they’d never drop off.” She applied the last of her lipstick, then plucked a tiny piece of lint off her gown. “I’ll be right down.”

I pulled on my jacket, tiptoed down the stairs, strode to the stove and flipped on the broiler for the steaks.

Sandi came into the kitchen and stood behind me. “Anything I can do?”

“Sure. Why don’t you get the salad? I’ll open the wine and light the candles.”

Ten minutes later, we sat across the table from one another. Soft music drifted through the room, her smile illuminated by the glow of the candles.

“You look lovely. Seeing you wear that gown makes you even more beautiful.”

Sandi placed her wine glass on the table and reached for my hand. “Thank you. You didn’t have to put on a suit, just for me.”

“Even though we can’t afford a sitter and go to a restaurant, I still wanted to make today special for you.” I gave her fingers a gentle squeeze. “Just looking at you makes my day special. Every day.” I released her hand.

“Don’t let your steak get cold. Have you decided what you want to watch? Her Alibi?

Shakespeare in Love? A Walk in the Clouds?”

“Her Alibi, I think. I’ve always loved that house.”

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Dinner and a movie, the classic date. Except, this time it meant so much more. A suit, an evening gown. A tie, hose and heels. Even though it’s all in our home, the effort to look nice, create an ambiance and watch a DVD we’ve owned for years is worth any minor inconvenience.

We lifted our wineglasses and they met with a soft ring.

“Happy anniversary.”

William R. Bartlett lives in Belton with his wife and two boys.

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45

protecting

your fa mily’s medical information

For tips on organizing your family’s other important papers, like wills, birth certificates, passports and more, log onto KCParent.com.

h

ealth information is valuable. Your doctors need swift and easy access if they are going to provide effective treatment, especially in an emergency.

But health data also has value to researchers and advertisers, and medical financial information is attractive to criminals who can use it to steal medications, equipment and services.

Now that medical records are being kept electronically, they can more easily be misappropriated. Health care providers and insurers have been hacked, creating worries about privacy, as well financial vulnerability.Medical companies that get

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kcparent.com february 2016

access to health information may bombard you or your child with advertising for treatments that you don’t want or need.

A thief who gets access to insurance information can ruin your credit and max out your benefits. Just as worrisome, a person who accesses health services under the name of a family member may have his information entered into the medical record, creating confusion that can have serious consequences.

Protecting your family from these problems requires vigilance. Get into the habit of following these rules:

set up personal health records.

be smart online.

Having your own records makes it easier if you need to change health care providers. MyPHR.com has an extensive list of record-keeping apps and programs, as well as paper forms that can be downloaded.

Regardless of format, you’ll want to record the following information for each family member:

Thanks to HIPAA, medical providers must take privacy seriously. But those rules don’t apply to social media, message boards or companies that sell wearable medical devices. Think carefully about sharing health information online. You may want to restrict it to an inner circle of family and close friends.

Consider using a nickname if you decide to share health information in online support groups or forums. Think carefully about equipping children with any kind of wearable medical device—even a pedometer—that shares or aggregates health data.

study statements.

• Prescribed medications, including

Check provider names, dates of service and the type of service provided. Does anything look unfamiliar? Were you billed for the same thing twice? If you see a mistake, report the problem as soon as possible.

check EOBs. An Explanation of Benefits from your insurance company usually says “This is not a bill” at the top. That’s not a reason to ignore it. Match EOBs to statements from medical providers. If there are any discrepancies, contact your insurance company immediately. An inaccurate EOB may be your first indicator that someone else is using your insurance information.

sign up for online accounts.

Many doctors and pharmacies provide patients with password protected access to personal medical files. Not only is this an easy way to check the accuracy of records, but it also keeps anyone else from setting up an account under your name.

correct misinformation.

Fraudulent medical claims can introduce inaccurate information into medical records. If you become aware of errors in your medical files, ask that they be corrected. Keep in mind that the medical provider who created the record has responsibility for changing it but won’t necessarily notify any other providers who may have received the information. Follow up with each of them to be sure records are accurate.

• Dates of immunizations • Lab results, including blood type • Allergies and sensitivities to medications, foods and materials dosages

• Treatment for chronic conditions such as asthma

• Treatment for unusual conditions, including hospitalization or ER visits

Because genetic history is likely to become more important in your child’s lifetime, you may want to use the same file to record medical conditions of ancestors and other family members as you learn about them.

keep records safe.

Use a password to protect health records stored online. Store paper records in a safe place—a locked filing cabinet is ideal.

Shred outdated health insurance forms, prescription receipts, physician statements and even the labels from prescription bottles.

guard your numbers.

Treat your insurance card as carefully as your credit card. If you lose it, call the insurance company immediately. Avoid putting social security numbers on health information forms. Numbers for children are especially desirable to thieves because you may not detect a problem until the child applies for a driver’s license. If forms from medical providers or, for that matter, schools or sports teams ask for social security numbers, leave the space blank. Don’t share medical or insurance information on the phone unless you initiated the contact. Don’t provide it in response to email.

be skeptical about free.

Medical identity thieves try to trick people into revealing sensitive medical information by offering free products and services. Drug companies and other suppliers set up free forums to harvest information that may be useful in marketing. Free medical apps may collect information that is sold to advertisers.

Before accepting a deal that seems too good to be true, read the fine print—especially the privacy policy.

If, despite all these precautions, you suspect someone has stolen the medical identity of a family member, act swiftly, following the steps outlined at IdentityTheft. gov/#what-to-do-right-away. You also can request an Accounting of Disclosures, a record that details when, what, to whom and why your medical information was shared by your provider. Even if you don’t suspect medical fraud, you may want to request a disclosure report, as well as reports from the three major credit agencies (AnnualCreditReport.com). By law, you are entitled to a free copy of each of these reports each year, and you may sleep better at night if you know they’ve given your family a clean bill of health.

Carolyn Jabs, M.A., raised three computersavvy kids, including one with special needs.

She has been writing “Growing Up Online” for more than a decade, and other columns appear at Growing-Up-Online.com. In 2016, she will publish Cooperative Wisdom: Bringing People Together When Things Fall Apart.

kcparent.com february 2016

47

tips for KC moms to be the

hostess with the most-ess playdates The key to hosting successful playdates is to start small. Your 3-year-old might declare, “She is my best friend in the whole world!” However, this does not guarantee they will get along for an entire day. For preschoolers, start with an hour or two and consider having the other parent stay for all or part of the time. A neutral location like a playground may help with the “sharing struggle” that can occur when one child is on another’s turf.

Incorporate a snack. Asking the guest’s parent for any major likes or dislikes in this regard is helpful. My kids’ friends seem to like the “snack plate” idea, where I deliver a tray with two each of a variety of things.

Banish siblings if you can. After all, it’s a play date, and no one likes a third wheel. My

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grade school-aged kids now can entertain themselves fabulously with a friend over, so I use that time to do something special with the younger child.

Ask your child in advance to think about and tell you what he or she would like to do with the guest so you can put a stop to any crazy ideas. (“First, we are going to jump on all the couches in the house…”). Make sure your child understands she should let her guest pick, within reason, the activity (or at least take turns). Remove any toys that can’t be shared easily or let your child put away special belongings herself. Have a couple of activities ready, but let the children do their own thing to the extent both are enjoying themselves.

If the kids run out of ideas or seem to be entering into conflict about what to play, some sure crowd pleasers at our house include playing with magic sand or play dough, baking or decorating cookies, going

on a treasure hunt or tackling an indoor or outdoor obstacle course. If a young guest’s parent is not on site, send her a message or picture to let her know her child is having fun (or that she might need to come a bit early).

Be sure to corral your guest’s belongings before it is time to leave. Also, give at least a 10-minute warning that it’s time to wrap things up.

birthday parties

Have a set start and stop time. The younger the child, the shorter the party should be. If you choose to host a party at a commercial venue, they will likely determine the duration for you, typically 1 ½ to 2 ½ hours. Send out invitations two to three weeks in advance.

If your child has a very best friend, check his availability early in the planning process. Let

parents know on the invitation whether they can drop off their children or whether they should stay and supervise—I mean “join in the party.” Letting parents know whether siblings are included is also helpful. If your party doesn’t have a limit on guests, this can make things much easier for parents with more than one child.

If you are allowing parents to drop off, make sure you have plenty of adults or older children to help manage the chaos that cake and ice cream can create. Include a map or directions to the party location, as well as a contact number—even if you request RSVPs via e-mail. If you are serving a meal or other food, include that information in the invitation so parents can plan ahead (this is especially helpful to parents of children with food allergies).

Be sure to offer parents attending the party food and drinks as well. If you are planning games or activities for the celebration, have a quiet game or refreshment break following the more active games. If you decide to open gifts at the party, gather them up after they have been unwrapped so nothing gets lost or broken.

If you choose to offer party favors to your guests, keep it simple. Most parents seem to prefer receiving one nice favor or sweet treat rather than a bag of plastic odds and ends.

Or have the kids make their own favors. A craft project can serve as both an activity and a favor.

Let your child and the guests determine the flow of the party. If they’re having a blast doing something, let them stick with it a little longer even if that means shuffling or eliminating another activity. Enlist help with cutting and serving the cake and taking photographs so you can enjoy this special time with your birthday kid.

sleepovers

Z

ZZ

Hosting a sleepover gets more complicated due to the longer period of time, serving of several meals and the bedtime declaration. Younger children can still participate in an “almost sleepover” where they wear pajamas and bring sleeping bags, but parents pick them up at bedtime.

Z

Decide where everyone will spread out ahead of time and prepare the area.

Avoid squabbles about who sleeps where by arranging sleeping bags in a circle with heads in the middle. Move furniture out of the way and provide extra pillows, blankets, toothbrushes and toiletries because someone will forget something. Show everyone where the bathroom is and leave the light on or use a nightlight so guests can find their way. Also show them where to find your bedroom, for emergencies only.

Other parents will love you if you can actually get the kids to sleep for a decent amount of time so they are not completely out of commission the next day. Bribery works well in this regard. You can watch this movie/play this game/have this snack if you all will agree to go to bed—and sleep—at this certain time.

Have some backup activities that include everyone, such as watching a non-scary movie. Warn any known early risers not to wake the others. Providing books or magazines can help keep them entertained but quiet.

Setting out food and drinks buffet style seems easiest so guests can continue to help themselves without resorting to unsanctioned raids on the fridge. Serve treats well before bedtime so the children have opportunity to burn off the sugar. Kids seem to like serving themselves at makeshift popcorn bars, hot cocoa bars, ice cream sundae bars, waffle bars, etc. If you offer a few options (and one of those options is chocolate chips), it seems more festive.

Have a definite morning pickup time— no later than 10:00. Even if they stayed up late, they will still likely awaken early. Be sure to get contact numbers for every parent so you aren’t scrambling for them in case of an emergency.

out of town guests

This is one category where anticipating your guests’ needs is key. Think about what a nice hotel provides. You want your guests to be comfortable and not have to ask you for every little thing.

Even if your guest quarters consist of your living room couch with a blanket on

it, you can add some small touches that your guests will appreciate.

Put a simple tray with bottles of water, glasses and tissues by the bed.

Be sure to lay out towels and washcloths for their use, as well as a fresh bar of soap and small shampoo samples. Empty hangers in the closet or a cleaned out dresser drawer will allow them to unpack a bit. An alarm clock, a few magazines and a lamp by the bed are nice, as is a trash can and an available plug for charging devices (and a note with your wifi network and password).

Be prepared to provide a fan, extra blanket or space heater if your guest is used to a different temperature than your household.

Let guests know your family’s schedule and routine and try to stick to your kids’ routines to the extent you can. Don’t feel like you have to spend every waking moment together. Give your guests (and yourself) some private time to relax. Provide information about local sites or dining if your guests are venturing out on their own. Show them where the coffee and breakfast supplies are kept so they can help themselves.

Giving your guests their own house key can allow them to come and go without disturbing you. Also be sure to explain any quirks regarding your home’s plumbing, electricity, etc., before they become an issue!

Let these hosting tips result in a great entertaining experience. Maybe you’ll even receive a reciprocal invitation!

Laura Miller McEachen is a part-time attorney and full-time mommy.

Keep four main things in mind when entertaining, regardless of the size of your group or age of your guests:

• Anticipate your guests’ needs.

• Have a backup plan.

• Enlist help where you can.

• Go with the flow.

kcparent.com february 2016

49

Tasty Meals in Minutes Quick-fix dinners for the family Family Features

B

usy weeknights can make for hectic meals, but these simple recipes prove you don’t have to trim out flavor or precious moments with family when you’re cutting minutes off your dinner prep time.

The secret to making quick meals your family will love is quality ingredients. Tasty meals are easy when you incorporate the wholesome flavor of all-natural ingredients you feel good about serving your family, such as Hunt’s tomatoes. Hunt’s peels its diced, whole and stewed tomatoes using steam from simple hot water, so no chemical byproducts get put back into the earth.

Rely on these additional tips to help save time on your weeknight dinner prep:

•

•

•

When you’re exploring new time-saving recipes, consider both prep time and total cook time. Many dishes can be assembled in minutes, leaving you time to help tackle chores and homework before sitting down to dinner.

Enlist backup when the prep time is a little longer.

For example, an extra set of hands from a little helper can shave minutes off the assembly of this eggplant lasagna, while getting a youngster excited about digging into a veggie-centric dinner.

Make what you can ahead of time. Assemble a dish such as these oven-roasted brussels sprouts with tomatoes in the morning and slip it in the refrigerator, so all you have to do is slide it in the oven at dinnertime.

Find more family-friendly recipes to fit your busy schedule at Hunts.com/recipes.

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kcparent.com february 2016

Quick Mini Meatloaves Prep time: 10 minutes Total time: 40 minutes Servings: 6

Pam Original No-Stick Cooking Spray 1 can (8 oz.) tomato sauce 3 T. firmly packed brown sugar 1 T. spicy brown mustard 1 lb. ground chuck beef (80 percent lean) 1 can (14.5 oz.) petite diced tomatoes, drained 1/3 c. finely chopped yellow onion 3/4 c. Italian-style bread crumbs 1 egg, beaten 1/8 t. salt 1/8 t. ground black pepper

Heat oven to 400° F. Lightly spray six medium muffin cups with cooking spray; set aside.

In small bowl, combine tomato sauce, brown sugar and mustard; set aside.

In large bowl, combine remaining ingredients. Add 1/4 cup reserved sauce mixture to meat mixture and incorporate. Divide meat mixture evenly and place into prepared muffin cups. Place muffin pan on baking sheet.

Bake 25 minutes or until no longer pink in centers (165° F). Top each mini loaf with 2 tablespoons sauce; bake 5 minutes more or until sauce is set.

Serve with remaining sauce.

Eggplant Lasagna

Easy Chicken Parmesan

Prep time: 50 minutes Total time: 1 hour, 45 minutes Servings: 8

Prep time: 10 minutes Total time: 45 minutes Servings: 6

Pam Original No-Stick Cooking Spray 1 c. part-skim ricotta cheese 3/4 c. grated Parmesan cheese 3/4 t. dried Italian seasoning 1 large eggplant (about 1 pound), cut into 1/4-inch-thick lengthwise slices 1/4 c. extra virgin olive oil 1/2 t. salt 1/2 t. ground black pepper 1 pkg. (20 oz.) Italian-seasoned ground turkey 3/4 c. chopped yellow onion 1 T. finely chopped garlic 1 can (14.5 oz.) diced tomatoes, drained 1/4 c. tomato paste 1/4 c. thinly sliced fresh basil 1 1/2 c. shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese

Heat oven to 350째 F. Spray 8-by-8-inch glass baking dish with cooking spray.

In small bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning; set aside.

Heat grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush eggplant slices with oil; sprinkle both sides with salt and pepper. In batches, place eggplant on grill pan. Cook each side 1-2 minutes or until lightly browned and tender. Remove and place on baking sheet lined with paper towels; pat to remove excess moisture.

Spray large skillet with cooking spray; heat over medium-high heat. Add turkey and cook 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add onion and garlic; cook 2-3 minutes more or until onion is tender and turkey is crumbled and no longer pink. Drain. Add drained tomatoes, tomato paste and basil to skillet; stir to combine. Reduce heat and simmer 2 minutes more.

Assemble lasagna by spreading 3/4 cup meat mixture over bottom of dish. Place 3 eggplant slices over meat mixture, top with 3/4 cup meat mixture, half of ricotta cheese mixture and 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers, ending with a layer of eggplant slices topped with meat mixture and remaining mozzarella cheese.

Spray underside of aluminum foil with cooking spray; cover dish tightly with foil. Bake 30 minutes. Let stand 10 minutes before serving.

1 can (15 oz.) tomato sauce 1 can (14.5 oz.) diced tomatoes with basil, garlic and oregano, undrained 6 T. grated Parmesan cheese, divided 6 small boneless skinless chicken breasts (1 1/2 lbs. total) 3/4 lb. spaghetti, uncooked 1 1/2 c. shredded mozzarella cheese

Heat oven to 375째 F. Pour tomato sauce and undrained tomatoes into 13-by-9-inch baking dish. Stir in 1/4 cup (4 tablespoons) Parmesan. Add chicken; turn to evenly coat both sides of each breast with sauce. Cover.

Bake 30 minutes or until chicken is no longer pink in center (165째 F).

Meanwhile, cook spaghetti as directed on package, omitting salt.

Top chicken with remaining cheeses; bake, uncovered, 5 minutes or until mozzarella is melted. Drain spaghetti. Serve topped with chicken and sauce.

Oven-Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Tomatoes Prep time: 10 minutes Total time: 30 minutes Servings: 6

1 lb. small, fresh brussels sprouts, trimmed and cut in half lengthwise 1 can (14.5 oz.) fire roasted diced tomatoes, drained 2 T. pure canola oil 1/4 t. garlic powder 1/4 t. salt 1/8 t. ground black pepper

Heat oven to 425째 F. In large bowl, toss together brussels sprouts, drained tomatoes, oil, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Spread mixture in single layer on large shallow baking pan. Bake 20 minutes or until brussels sprouts are tender and browned, stirring once halfway through. kcparent.com february 2016

51

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

february CALENDAR

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

52

kcparent.com february 2016

Swan Lake at Muriel Kauffman Theatre

create

learn

see

visit

celebrate

Make a Valentine’s Mailbox on Feb. 6 at Home Depot Locations.

Kids build a wooden mailbox to hold valentine cards from favorite friends.

Workshops.

HomeDepot.com

Each Saturday in February the Nerman Museum at JCCC offers art classes where kids will learn about different works of art and then create a piece to take home.

NermanMuseum.org

The KC Ballet presents the premiere production of Swan Lake from artistic director Devon Carney.

Performances run Feb. 19-28 at the Muriel Kauffman Theatre.

KCBallet.org

Visit the National Museum of Toys and Miniatures Pedal to the Metal exhibit to learn about America’s obsession with four wheeled vehicles.

816.235.8000

Enjoy Leap Year activities on Feb. 27 at Science City. Have fun celebrating the extra day at Science City! Only happens every four years!

UnionStation.org/ sciencecity

1 Monday KCPT Kids Writers Contest Thru April 15.

Calling all young authors and illustrators!

Kindergarten through third graders are invited to submit their stories. KCPT.org Toddle Time 10:00, Bonner Springs Community Center. Kids 9 months through 5 years will enjoy playing on the large assortment of toys. $2. BonnerSprings.org Toddler Takeover 10:00, Kansas City North Community Center. Bring your little ones under 4 to run and play in the gym. $1. 816.784.6100 Story Time for Toddlers 10:30, MCPL (North Oak). A fun and interactive environment with toddlers that will engage and encourage those next steps into early literacy. MyMCPL.org Power Hour 1:00, Little Monkey Bizness.

Arrive between 1:00 and 3:00 on Mondays and Wednesdays and admission is just $5 plus tax!

913.631.7000

2 Tuesday Jumperoo 9:00, Urban Air Trampoline Park.

A special time for those 5 and under to enjoy access to the playground and trampoline attractions. $10/child, parents free. 800.960.4778

Toddle Time 9:00, Matt Ross Community Center. Open playtime with an array of toys, including blocks, balls and puzzles. $1-$2.

913.895.6350

Valentine’s Day Card Drive Thru Feb 28, American Stroke Foundation. Make cards for local homebound folks. Find details at KCParent.com

Coffee Playground 10:00, OP First Assembly of God. Free play in the gym for kids 5 and under. Inflatables, scooters, balls and other toys!

OverlandParkMOPS.com

And Justice for Some: The Freedom Trial of Anthony Burns (1858) 9:45 & 11:45, the Coterie.

The story of Anthony Burns who escaped slavery but was returned to his master. TheCoterie.org

Creative Story Time 11:00, Ceramic Café. Read a book and then paint a ceramic item that goes along with the story. Finish with a snack. $9.50.

CeramicCafeKC.com

Animal Tales Story Time 10:30, Ernie Miller Nature Center. Bring your teddy bear and listen to stories, sing songs and enjoy a visit from an animal friend. $2. 913.764.7759

Two-For-One Tuesdays 5:00, Crown Center Ice Terrace. After 5:00, pay one full-price admission and receive a second for free! CrownCenter.com

Open Gym Noon, Integrity Gymnastics. A great time to practice, get familiar with the gym and for kids to release energy. $6. IntegrityOP.com

Kansas Women’s Basketball 7:00, Allen Fieldhouse. Before the game enjoy the Fun Zone, then watch the Jayhawks take on Iowa State. KUAthletics.com

What’s for Dinner? 3:30, Burr Oak Woods.

Watch every Wednesday and Sunday as the captive amphibians, fish and turtles enjoy their feast. 816.228.3766

3 Wednesday

Table Top Games 6:00, Johnson County Library (Antioch). Learn fun new board games or bring your own favorites to share. JoCoLibrary.org

JBF Consignment Sale Thru Feb 6, Overland Park Convention Center. Shop for clothing, toys, gear and more and save big money!

JBFSale.com

Noah’s Ark Preschool

Parent Information Meeting 7:00, Primrose School of Overland Park. Learn more about the new Primrose School coming to North Olathe.

PrimroseNorthOlathe.com

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February 3-6

Wed & Thur 9am-8pm | Fri 9am-5pm Sat 9am-2pm Half Price Day! PrimeTime Shopping! $10 admission to get deals first!

Tues, 2pm-9pm | Early Bird 1/2 Price Sale: Fri 7pm-10pm

March 24-26

Thur 9am-8pm | Fri 9am-5pm Sat 9am-2pm Half Price Day! PrimeTime Shopping! $10 admission to get deals first!

Wed, 2pm-9pm | Early Bird 1/2 Price Sale: Fri 7pm-10pm

Questions: tmetzger@jbfsale.com | Facebook: JBFOverlandPark

FREE ADMISSION FOR 1 WITH THIS AD! Show this ad to get in FREE. Free admission does not include PRIMETIME shopping. kcparent.com february 2016

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The Diary of Anne Frank Thru Feb 21, Spencer Theatre. Peer into the world of a family in hiding and a gifted young writer during the horrors of the Holocaust. KCRep.org

Family Science Night 5:30, Kansas City Zoo. A fun-filled night of hands-on zoo science.

Tonight’s theme is “Phenomenal Physics.”

KansasCityZoo.org

4 Thursday

5 Friday

Free Play Cedar Ridge Christian Church. Daily free play for young children while parents enjoy a coffee drink. 913.393.3000

Da Vinci: The Exhibition Thru May 1, Union Station. Explore Leonardo da Vinci’s genius and experience his creations. UnionStation.org

Sensory Time 9:00, Johnson County Museum.

Kidscape can be loud; this special time is for kids with sensory integration and processing needs. 913.715.2575

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

Paint a pottery piece that goes along with a favorite story. Snack included. $13-$15. Pre-reg.

913.661.2529

Baby Bounce Story Time 9:30, Plaza Branch.

A special story time for babies (newborn to 18 months) with parent or caregiver.

816.701.3481

First Fridays 5:00, Crossroads Art District.

Galleries and shops remain open the first Friday of each month. KCCrossroads.org

Pay-to-Play 10:00, Backyard Specialists. Enjoy a play date with 17 play sets to enjoy, picnic tables and fun for little ones. Outdoors; open weather permitting. $2/child. 913.307.6023 MCA Kindergarten Preview 4:30, Maranatha Christian Academy. Learn about our kindergarten education program.

MCA-Eagles.org

Save

the

Daddy & Daughter Dance Today & tomorrow, 6:00, Providence Community Church. Dinner and a night of dancing for dads and daughters.

Must purchase tickets in advance. 913.307.0710 Monster Jam 7:30, Sprint Center. See more trucks, more racing, more freestyle, more donuts, more wheelies, more action and #MoreMonsterJam! MonsterJam.com

Date & Join US!

Prospective families KinDergarten preview eventS: Presentation & classroom tours

February 4, 2016

4:30 - 5:45 PM N. Campus

February 16, 2016

8:15 - 9:30 AM N. Campus

open hoUSe eventS: (K-12) Presentation & campus tours

6 Saturday MPE Women’s Encouragement Day 8:30, Lenexa Christian Center. A quiet, relaxing day for homeschool moms and those considering homeschooling. MidwestHomeschoolers.org JBF Consignment Sale 9:00, Overland Park Convention Center. Final day! Items half price.

Shop for clothing, toys, gear and more.

JBFSale.com Valentine’s Mailbox 9:00, Home Depot Locations. Build a wooden mailbox to hold valentine cards from favorite friends. Free.

Workshops.HomeDepot.com Art Class: Architecture in Art 10:00, Nerman Museum (JCCC). Learn about buildings in art and create a miniature monument of your own.

NermanMuseum.org Cupid’s Gems Jewelry Show 10:00, Thompson Barn (Lenexa). Enjoy a day with girlfriends, sisters or a mother-daughter outing. Browse the handcrafted jewelry. Free. 913.477.7500 Nature Nuts Story Time 10:00 & 11:00, Anita Gorman Discovery Center. Take a fantastic journey through books and then participate in nature activity. 816.759.7300

If They’ve Got Homework,

You’ve Got Help!

If you live or work in Clay, Jackson, or Platte County and have a Mid-Continent Public Library card, you can start using FREE online resources for elementary, middle, and high school students today.

Visit mymcpl.org/homework

February 18, 2016 6:30 PM S. Campus

DiScover Mca Presentation & campus tours

March 3, 2016

Access Insight

6:00 - 8:00 PM North Campus Gym

www.mca-eagles.org MCA North Campus 15000 W. 63rd St., Shawnee, KS Phone: (913) 631-9286

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kcparent.com february 2016

MCA South Campus 6826 Lackman Rd., Shawnee, KS Phone: (913) 631-0637

Zooper Bowl 10:00, Kansas City Zoo. Wear your favorite football team apparel and receive half off admission. KansasCityZoo.org Woodcarving Show 11:00, CW Parker Carousel Museum. Woodcarvers demonstrate their carving skills and have items for sale. Free.

913.682.1331 Open Gym 12:30, Elite Gymnastics & Aquatics.

Run, jump and play in the foam pit, rope swings and more. EliteGymSwim.com Winter Hike 1:00, Burr Oak Woods Nature Center. Hike to the Bethany Falls Trail loop then return. Total hike is 3 miles; moderately strenuous. Ages 12+. 816.228.3766 Saturday Feeder 2:00, Cedar Cove. During the winter, Cedar Cove hosts public feedings of the cats, weather permitting. $5-$7.

SaveOurSiberians.org Daddy/Daughter Valentine Dance 6:00, Vesper Hall (Blue Springs). An evening of entertainment, music, dancing, photo booth and dinner. Must pre-reg at BlueSpringsGov.com.

Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo 8:00, Yardley Hall (JCCC). A spoof on classical ballet, where guys perform both the men’s and women’s roles. JCCC.edu/TheSeries

by Wendy Lement and Bethany Dunakin A co-production with UMKC Theatre Directed by Jeff Church

THE COTERIE THEATRE no small characters.

JAN 26 to FEB 21 FOR FAMILIES WITH AGES 11+ TICKETS ONLY $11- $15

Located on level 1 of Crown Center

thecoterie.org 816.474.6552

FREE | 1–4 p.m.

Saturday & Sunday Fun for the whole family.

45th & Oak, Kansas City, Missouri 816.751.1ART | n e l s on - at k i n s .o r g NelsonAtkins_KCParent_ArtPlusFamily_Feb2016.indd 1

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kcparent.com 1/5/16 february 20164:40 PM

Harriet Tubman and the Underground Railroad Feb. 9, 10:00, Folly Theater. A classic tribute to the great American who freed herself and hundreds of others. FollyTheater.org

7 Sunday

8 Monday

Teddy Bear Tea 12:30 & 2:30, Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop and Farm. Enjoy tea, refreshments and a craft with a favorite stuffed animal. $4-$6. Pre-reg. 913.971.5111

Gym for Me 9:00, Lenexa Community Center. Preschool kids can play with others while running, riding and bouncing during open play. $1.

913.477.7100

art + family = FUN 1:00, Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Join us every Saturday and Sunday for free activities for all ages!

816.751.1278 Kids’ Valentine Gifts for Mom 1:00, Powell Gardens. Learn how to create chocolate bath salts Mom will greatly appreciate!

PowellGardens.org Daddy & Me Sweetheart Tea 1:00, Riverfront Community Center (Leavenworth). An afternoon of fun and refreshments. Must pre-reg at 913.651.2203.

Meet the Experts 2:00, National Museum of Toys and Miniatures. Author Ann Vernon discusses research on the 1911 Tureman Mansion, which houses the museum. 816.235.8000

Story Time for Toddlers 9:30, MCPL (North Oak). Enjoy a fun and interactive story time just for toddlers and their caregivers. Free.

816.436.4385 All You Can Play Day 10:00, Cool Crest. For only $10, enjoy unlimited mini golf, two go-kart rides and 10 arcade tokens.

CoolCrest.com Preteen Course Thru April 11, Hoffman International. Class meets for 10 weeks and covers visual poise, hair care and styling, nutrition, exercise and more. Ages 9-12.

913.642.1060

Kids Klub Thru April 11, Hoffman International.

Class meets for 10 weeks and covers runway modeling, manners, dining etiquette and more.

Ages 4-8. 913.642.1060

9 Tuesday Harriet Tubman and the Underground Railroad 10:00, Folly Theater. A classic tribute to the great American who freed herself and hundreds of others. FollyTheater.org

Top 10 of the DECADE for Kansas City !

- Paul Horsley, The Independent

“INSPIRING!”

February 12-13, 2016

7:30pm KAUFFMAN CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS

1601 Broadway | Kansas City MO | 64108

Tickets: 816.994.7222 $60, $40, $20 w w w. stor l i ng d an c e. or g

“one of the most vivid, heartfelt and theatrically astute pieces of dance theater ever to grace a Kansas City stage”

- K.C Star

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kcparent.com february 2016

“REMARKABLE!”

“POWERFUL DANCING. POWERFUL STORYTELLING.”

Story Time for Babies 9:30, MCPL (Parkville).

Fun, engaging story time for babies to instill a foundation for early literacy. MyMCPL.org

Open Jump 4:00, Urban Air Trampoline Park.

Cure cabin fever by having the kids jump on the trampolines at Urban Air! 800.960.4778

Toddler Tuesdays 10:00, Sea Life Aquarium.

Tickets are just $14 for one toddler (0-4) and one adult! VisitSeaLife.com

Animal Tales & Trails Thru May 1, Crown Center, Level 1. Enter an interactive habitat where children learn about interesting creatures. CrownCenter.com

12 Friday

Junie B Jones, the Musical 10:00 & Noon, H&R Block City Stage. A musical adaptation of the beloved stories by Barbara Park. TYA.org

Open Gym Noon, Integrity Gymnastics. A great time to practice, get familiar with the gym and for kids to release energy. $6. IntegrityOP.com

Pay-to-Play 10:00, Rainbow Play Systems.

Bring the kids to run off energy on Rainbow’s indoor play equipment. $5/child for two hours.

913.780.6500

Parent Information Meeting 7:00, Primrose School of Overland Park. Learn more about the new Primrose School coming to North Olathe.

PrimroseNorthOlathe.com

Two-For-One Tuesdays 5:00, Crown Center Ice Terrace. After 5:00, pay one full-price admission and receive a second for free!

CrownCenter.com

11 Thursday

Babes in the Woods 10:00, Burr Oak Woods Nature Center. Learn about animals that stay active throughout the long winter chill. Pre-reg at 816.228.3766.

10 Wednesday Pop ‘n Play 9:00, Johnson County Museum.

A drop-in program with age-appropriate activities for children 9 months to 3 years old.

913.715.2550

Open Gym 9:00, Indian Creek Community Church (Olathe). A time for kids 6 and under to play, run, kick, ride and jump. Free.

IndianCreek.org Pay-to-Play 10:00, Backyard Specialists. Enjoy a play date with 17 play sets to enjoy, picnic tables and fun for little ones. Outdoors; open weather permitting. $2/child. 913.307.6023

Tie-Dye Tees & Valentine’s Day Celebration 10:00, Westside Family Church. Students will create a one-of-a-kind tie-dye shirt and exchange valentines. MaizeVirtualPrepSchool.com Creative Story Time 10:30, Ceramic Café. Hear a story, create a pottery piece and enjoy a simple snack. 913.383.0222 Story Time 10:30 & 11:15, Wonderscope. Join us in our ArtWorks Exhibit for story time. This is free with museum admission. Wonderscope.org Second Friday Art Crawl 5:00, Downtown Excelsior Springs. Enjoy feature artists, music, dining and shopping. 816.630.6161 Middle School Teen Night 7:00, Paradise Park. Celebrate friendship with great indoor fun! For only $15 get a “pick 3” wristband.

Paradise-Park.com Major League Improv 7:30, ComedyCity.

A comedy sporting event with everything decided upon by the audience. $9-$13.

816.842.2744

kcparent.com february 2016

57

Backyard Bird Count Feb. 14, 9:00, Powell Gardens. After a brief intro, be part of the team that counts the birds that frequent the gardens. $8/adult; $3/child. Pre-reg. 816.697.2600

Underground Today & tomorrow, 7:30, Kauffman Center. Storling Dance presents a powerful and inspiring portrayal of the Underground Railroad movement and the abolition of slavery. CultureHouse.com

Breakfast with the Beasts 10:00, Lakeside Nature Center. Meet some of the beasts living in the backyard and learn what they like for breakfast.

LakesideNatureCenter.org

13 Saturday

Let’s Make Puppets 11:00, Johnson County Library (multiple branches). Stop by the library to make a finger, sock, or marionette puppet. Free. JoCoLibrary.org

Great Backyard Bird Count 9:00, Ernie Miller Nature Center. Come count birds! You may see northern cardinals, black-capped chickadees and more. 913.826.2805 Artisans at the Gardens 9:00, Overland Park Arboretum. Support local artists at this winter art show/sale. Artisan items include jewelry, accessories and apparel. 913.685.3604 Art Class 10:00, Nerman Museum. Learn about animals and symbols in art and create an imaginary creature using clay.

NermanMuseum.org

Second Saturdays 11:00, Grinter Place State Historic Site. Learn about Kansas City area history and stay for lunch prepared on the wood stove. $3-$5. 913.299.0373 The Fabulous Carnival of Creatures 11:00 & 2:00, Puppetry Arts Institute. Puppet animals of all kinds share the fun. $6/person.

816.833.9777 Be My Cupcake 1:00, Cupcakin Bakery. Kids will enjoy decorating their own cupcakes to take home and share with family.

816.813.4880

And Justice for Some: The Freedom Trial of Anthony Burns (1858) 2:00, the Coterie. The story of Anthony Burns who escaped slavery but was returned to his master. TheCoterie.org Saturday Feeder 2:00, Cedar Cove. During the winter, Cedar Cove hosts public feedings of the cats, weather permitting. $5-$7.

SaveOurSiberians.org Second Saturdays 4:00, Downtown Weston.

Stroll into unique gift shops and galleries for late night shopping and in-store specials.

WestonMo.com

Honoring Black History in Kansas City

F

ebruary is Black History Month, and Kansas City’s local museums and attractions are honoring the legacy of African Americans with special events all month long.

Black History Month Events: Through the Lens: Visions of African American Experience, 1950–1970 Thru April 3, the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, Nelson-Atkins.org More than 60 photographs made during the civil rights era will be on display.

And Justice for Some Thru Feb. 21, the Coterie, TheCoterie.org Anthony Burns escaped slavery. Despite a fierce defense at trial, he was returned to his Southern master. This powerful case helped create the party that propelled Lincoln to the White House.

Störling Dance Theater’s UNDERGROUND Feb. 12 & 13, Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, StorlingDance.CreateFervor.com/underground This performance is a storytelling dance theater production that has created a new tradition in Kansas City. The vision for Storling Dance Theater’s UNDERGROUND began in the year 2000 as a positive approach to addressing growing divisiveness in our culture over race.

Stereotypes to Civil Rights: Black Paper Dolls in America Feb. 28-Aug. 22, the National Museum of Toys and Miniatures, ToyAndMiniatureMuseum.org

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Explore how stereotypes of people of African descent were created and institutionalized through paper dolls from the mid-1800s to the present day with the encyclopedic collection of Arabella Grayson.

African Culture Connection Feb. 25, Yardley Hall at the Johnson County Community College, JCCC.edu/TheSeries West Africa native Charles Ahovissi presents the vibrant rhythms, movements, colors and costumes of African tribal traditions. The production offers lively interpretations of African proverbs through song, music and dance by creating an authentic African village ambiance.

Museums Celebrating Black History: American Jazz Museum Charlie Parker Memorial, AmericanJazzMuseum.com Exhibits include the history of the African-American experience on 18th & Vine.

Black Archives of Mid-America BlackArchives.org Collections featuring paintings, sculptures and writings by black artists.

Bruce R. Watkins Cultural Heritage Center KCMO.org/parks.nsf/web/Watkins This museum is a tribute to the legacy of Kansas City’s early African-American pioneers.

Negro Leagues Baseball Museum NLBM.com Museum dedicated to the history of Negro Leagues Baseball, with interactive exhibits for all ages.

Kiss & Tail 5:30, Kansas City Zoo. Time again for this annual, adults-only valentine event.

Enjoy music, a silent auction, great eats and beverages. $35-$45. KansasCityZoo.org

Story Time for Preschoolers 1:30, NelsonAtkins Museum of Art. Join us the second Sunday of each month for a special story time for preschoolers. Nelson-Atkins.org

Ice Skating Noon, Crown Center Ice Terrace.

Enjoy a day of skating with the family at KC’s only outdoor rink. See KCParent.com for coupon. CrownCenter.com

The Australian Bee Gees Show 8:00, JCCC Performing Arts Center. A concert celebrating the music of one of the most popular groups of all time. JCCC.edu/theseries

Sunday Family Series 2:00, Ernie Miller Nature Center. Bring the family on Sunday afternoons for entertainment and education. $3. 913.764.7759

Power Hour 1:00, Little Monkey Bizness.

Arrive between 1:00 and 3:00 on Mondays and Wednesdays and admission is just $5 plus tax!

913.631.7000

14 Sunday

15 Monday

16 Tuesday

Presidents Day

MCA Kindergarten Preview 8:15, Maranatha Christian Academy. Learn about the kindergarten program and hear from teachers and the elementary principal. MCA-Eagles.org

Valentine’s Day Valentine’s Day Card Drive Thru Feb 28, American Stroke Foundation. Make cards for local homebound folks. Find details at KCParent.com Backyard Bird Count 9:00, Powell Gardens.

After a brief intro, be part of the team that counts the birds that frequent the gardens. $8/adult; $3/child. Pre-reg. 816.697.2600 Day in the Life: Gas Warfare 10:00, National World War I Museum. Hear stories of the Great War era and see history come to life!

TheWorldWar.org

Ready Jet GO! 7:00 & 4:00, KCPT. Blast off an adventure with the premiere of this new series, Ready Jet GO! KCPT.org Science City Open 10:00, Science City (Union Station). School is out, and Science City is open today! Bring the kids for a day of learning and fun. UnionStation.org Toddler Takeover 10:00, Kansas City North Community Center. Bring your little ones under 4 to run and play in the gym. $1.

816.784.6100

Da Vinci: The Exhibition Thru May 1, Union Station. Explore Leonardo da Vinci’s genius and experience his creations. UnionStation.org Creative Story Time 11:00, Ceramic Café.

Read a book and then paint a ceramic item that goes along with the story. Finish with a snack. $9.50. CeramicCafeKC.com Tots on Tuesday 11:00, Kemper Museum.

Bring in your preschooler for a fun and fashionable get-together every third Tuesday.

816.753.5784

So much

to SEE & DO NEW at Science City INTERNATIONAL

WINNER VISITOR EXPERIENCE

AWARD

Huge New Exhibits & Open Year-Round • Fun, hands-on activities for the whole family • Educator-led workshops and demonstrations • New science-themed activities every month (February is Sweet Science Month!)

Members Visit for FREE! Spend a few hours or an entire day at Kansas City’s Science Center!

ScienceCity.com

YES!

WE ARE OPEN PRESEIDENTS DAY: MONDAY, FEB 15!

Proud to be a

Smithsonian Affiliate Smithsonian Affiliate kcparent.com february 2016

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february by the numbers

17

Date Margaret Truman was born to Bess and future President Harry S. Truman in Independence, MO, in 1924.

3.2

Inches average snowfall in Kansas City in February.

39

Million meals delivered by Harvesters last year. February is Canned Food Month; visit Harvesters.org to learn how you can donate canned goods, time or money to help feed the hungry in our community.

20

100

Times Phil has seen his shadow since the tradition of Groundhog Day (Feb. 2) began in Punxsutawney, signaling six more weeks of winter.

There were 17 times he did not see his shadow, cuing an early spring. Nine years during the late 1800s show no record of Phil’s forecast.

Pounds of food eaten daily

by Berlin, the Kansas City Zoo’s resident polar bear, who is celebrated on Feb. 27, National Polar Bear Day.

4,543 Miles from Valrhona Chocolate in France to Christopher Elbow’s shop in Kansas City where the cocoa is used to make decadent sweets for Valentine’s Day.

100

Million pounds of chocolates manufactured annually by Kansas City company Russell Stover, including their famous Valentine heart box assortments.

9

Date in 1920 when the City Council approved a plan to build Kansas City’s Liberty Memorial on the property south of Union Station. The Liberty Memorial Association envisioned a monument that would be among the world’s most spectacular memorials to World War I veterans.

Read to a Dog Feb. 24, 4:00, Johnson County LIbrary (Leawood). Kids, practice your reading skills with a certified therapy dog. JoCoLibrary.org

17 Wednesday Pedal to the Metal Thru Aug 28, National Museum of Toys and Miniatures. Experience America’s obsession with four wheeled vehicles in this exhibit. 816.235.8000 Toddle Time 9:00, Matt Ross Community Center.

Open playtime with an array of toys, including blocks, balls and puzzles. $1-$2. 913.895.6350 Story Time for Babies 9:30, MCPL (Parkville).

Fun, engaging story time for babies to instill a foundation for early literacy. MyMCPL.org Dolly and Me, Afternoon Tea 11:00, Roeland Park Community Center. A fun-filled afternoon for ages 3 to 5. $12-$13/person. 913.826.3160 Parent Information Meeting 7:00, Primrose School of Overland Park. Learn more about the new Primrose School coming to North Olathe.

PrimroseNorthOlathe.com Kansas Women’s Basketball 7:00, Allen Fieldhouse. Before the game enjoy the Fun Zone, then watch the Jayhawks take on TCU. KUAthletics.com

18 Thursday Sensory Time 9:00, Johnson County Museum.

Kidscape can be loud; this special time is for kids with sensory integration and processing needs. 913.715.2575 Baby Bounce Story Time 9:30, Plaza Branch.

A special story time for babies (newborn to 18 months) with parent or caregiver. 816.701.3481

The Diary of Anne Frank Thru Feb 21, Spencer Theatre. Peer into the world of a family in hiding and a gifted young writer during the horrors of the Holocaust. KCRep.org

19 Friday Junior Jaunts 10:15, Nelson-Atkins Museum.

Bring Baby in a stroller or carrier and enjoy an adult-focused, baby-friendly mini museum tour.

Nelson-Atkins.org Paint Me a Story 10:30, Paint, Glaze & Fire.

Paint a pottery piece that goes along with a favorite story. Snack included. $13-$15. Pre-reg.

913.661.2529 Story Time 10:30 & 11:15, Wonderscope. Join us in our ArtWorks Exhibit for story time. This is free with museum admission. Wonderscope.org Third Friday Art Walk 5:30, Englewood Station Arts District. Tour the art galleries. View live performances and artists on the sidewalks in front of shops. EnglewoodStation.com Movie Premier Legoland Discovery Center. Emmet and friends reunite in The LEGO® Movie™ 4D A New Adventure.

LegolandDiscoveryCenter.com Swan Lake Thru Feb 28, Muriel Kauffman Theatre. The KC Ballet presents the premiere production of Swan Lake from artistic director Devon Carney. KCBallet.org

20 Saturday

Open Gym Noon, Integrity Gymnastics. A great time to practice, get familiar with the gym and for kids to release energy. $6. IntegrityOP.com

Teddy Bear Clinic 10:00, Kansas City Zoo. Is your teddy bear in need of some TLC? Bring your injured bears and we’ll fix them right up.

KansasCityZoo.org

Professional Course Thru April 28, Hoffman International. Class meets for 8 weeks and covers advanced runway, photo movement and more. Ages 8+. 913.642.1060

Art Class 10:00, Nerman Museum. Learn about ceramic techniques and create a clay sculpture with a twist. NermanMuseum.org

Third Thursdays 5:30, Martin City Business District. Eat, drink and shop and support local businesses the third Thursday of each month.

MartinCity.org Maranatha Open House 6:30, Maranatha Christian Academy. Open house events include presentation and campus tours.

MCA-Eagles.org

Scavenger Saturdays 10:00, Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art. Follow the clues on this “ART-astic” adventure! 816.753.5784 Wildlife Survival: Raptors of Missouri 10:00, Anita Gorman Discovery Center. Raptors stay very busy during the winter; learn what they’re up to! 816.759.7300

Lawrence Polar Plunge 10:30, Naismith Hall.

The annual Lawrence Plunge at Naismith Hall benefits Special Olympics Kansas. KSSO.org Pirates and Mermaids 11:00, Paradise Park.

Join us for a jolly good day of giveaways, photo ops and legendary fun! Paradise-Park.com Music with a Smile 2:30, MCPL (North Oak). Janie Next Door offers playful original songs that engage children. Free. Pre-reg at 816.436.4385.

Full Moon Hike 6:00, George Owens Nature Park. Enjoy a guided moonlit hike through the park. Binoculars recommended; dress for weather. Pre-reg at 816.325.7115.

Daddy/Daughter Valentine Ball 6:30, Gardner Edgerton High School. Dance the night away with your special little lady. Must pre-reg at GardnerKansas.gov.

The Romeros 8:00, JCCC Performing Arts Center. Enjoy world premieres written for the Romeros, as well as Spanish favorites. JCCC. edu/theseries

21 Sunday Farmers Market 7:00, the City Market. The market offers a variety of fresh produce, meat, specialty groceries, flowers and gift items.

TheCityMarket.org And Justice for Some: The Freedom Trial of Anthony Burns (1858) 2:00, the Coterie. The story of Anthony Burns who escaped slavery but was returned to his master. TheCoterie.org Meet the Experts 2:00, National Museum of Toys and Miniatures. Marble expert Scott McBride will trace the journeys of participants in the VFW Marble Tournaments. 816.235.8000

kcparent.com february 2016

61

Pancakes with the Presidents Feb. 27, 8:30, Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm. Enjoy pancakes and crafts with presidents George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. Must pre-reg at Mahaffie.org.

Wildlife Webs 2:00, Ernie Miller Nature Center.

Discover the importance and habits of animals and their place in nature. $3. 913.764.7759 Funky Mama Concert 2:00, Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art. Rock with Funky Mama then explore KC’s contemporary art gallery.

Free. KemperArt.org “When You Wish Upon a Star” 5:00, Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Guitarist Bill Frisell draws upon the music we have heard on screen. $20-$40. 816.415.5025

22 Monday Moms FREE Monday 9:30, Paradise Park. Moms are free at the Children’s EduTainment Center with a paid child’s admission. 816.246.5224 Mommy and Me Bumper Bowling 9:30, Summit Lanes. Bumper bowling for moms and tots. $3/ea includes game, shoe rental and drink. 816.524.3322

Toddler Takeover 10:00, Kansas City North Community Center. Bring your little ones under 4 to run and play in the gym. $1. 816.784.6100 All You Can Play Day 10:00, Cool Crest.

For only $10, enjoy unlimited mini golf, two go-kart rides and 10 arcade tokens.

CoolCrest.com Monday Mania 6:00, Olathe Community Center. Enjoy organized games and activities in the pool! Each month is a new theme. $6-$8.

Must pre-reg at 913.971.8563.

23 Tuesday Toddle Time 9:00, Matt Ross Community Center. Open playtime with an array of toys, including blocks, balls and puzzles. $1-$2.

913.895.6350 Coffee Playground 10:00, OP First Assembly of God. Free play in the gym for kids 5 and under.

Inflatables, scooters, balls and other toys!

OverlandParkMOPS.com

Junie B Jones, the Musical 10:00, H&R Block City Stage. A musical adaptation of the beloved stories by Barbara Park. TYA.org Creative Story Time 11:00, Ceramic Café. Read a book and then paint a ceramic item that goes along with the story. Finish with a snack. $9.50.

CeramicCafeKC.com Negro Leagues Baseball 7:00, MCPL (North Oak). Author Kevin Mitchell discusses the rich history of the Negro Leagues. Adults. Must prereg at 816.436.4385.

Dancer: Molly Wagner. Photography: Kenny Johnson.

A TIMELESS LOVE STORY

FEB. 19-28, 2016

Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts CHOREOGRAPHY Devon Carney after Marius Petipa MUSIC Peter I. Tchaikovsky FEATURING Kansas City Symphony

TICKETS ON SALE AT KCBALLET.ORG OR CALL 816.931.8993 62

kcparent.com february 2016

24 Wednesday

Baby Story Time 9:30, Johnson County Library (Blue Valley). A lap sit program of songs and rhymes for the very young. Limited seating.

JoCoLibrary.org

Visit Legoland 10:00, Legoland Discovery Center. Spend the day building and playing and then watch the all-new 4D movie!

LegolandDiscoverycenter.com

African Culture Connection 9:45 & Noon, Yardley Hall (JCCC). Lively interpretations of African culture through song, music and dance.

JCCC.edu/theseries

Ice Skating Noon, Crown Center Ice Terrace.

Enjoy a day of skating with the family at KC’s only outdoor rink. See KCParent.com for coupon. CrownCenter.com

Preschool Bowling 10:00, Mission Bowl (Olathe). Receive one game of bowling, shoes, ball and a soft drink for only $3.

MissionBowl.com

Irish Dance Performance 6:30, Plaza Library.

Celebrate the Irish in everyone with a performance by O’Riada Manning Academy of Irish Dance. KCLibrary.org

Read to a Dog 4:00, Johnson County LIbrary (Leawood). Kids, practice your reading skills with a certified therapy dog. JoCoLibrary.org

Pay-to-Play 10:00, Backyard Specialists. Enjoy a play date with 17 play sets to enjoy, picnic tables and fun for little ones. Outdoors; open weather permitting. $2/child. 913.307.6023

Roof of the World Thru March 27, Copaken Stage. The true story of two world powers who sought to claim a new frontier: the Roof of the World. Ages 11+. KCRep.org

Parent Information Meeting 7:00, Primrose School of Overland Park. Learn more about the new Primrose School coming to North Olathe.

PrimroseNorthOlathe.com

Trout Stocking 2:30 (Kill Creek Park) & 3:45 (SM Park). Watch as the lakes are filled with rainbow trout for the 2016 season, which begins Feb 27. Free. 913.831.3359

Swan Lake Thru Feb 28, Muriel Kauffman Theatre. The KC Ballet presents the premiere production of Swan Lake from artistic director Devon Carney. KCBallet.org

25 Thursday

26 Friday

27 Saturday

Open Gym 9:00, Indian Creek Community Church (Olathe). A time for kids 6 and under to play, run, kick, ride and jump. Free. IndianCreek.org

Story Time for Babies 9:30, MCPL (North Oak).

Fun, engaging story time for babies to instill a foundation for early literacy. MyMCPL.org

Pancakes with the Presidents 8:30, Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm. Enjoy pancakes and crafts with presidents George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. Must pre-reg at Mahaffie.org.

Animal Tales & Trails Thru May 1, Crown Center, Level 1. Enter an interactive habitat where children learn about interesting creatures. CrownCenter.com Open Gym Noon, Integrity Gymnastics. A great time to practice, get familiar with the gym and for kids to release energy. $6. IntegrityOP.com What’s for Dinner? 3:30, Burr Oak Woods.

Watch every Wednesday and Sunday as the captive amphibians, fish and turtles enjoy their feast. 816.228.3766

did somebody say fire?

Ready, aim...

A collection that speaks for itself.

open daily: 10 aM – 4pM, CloSed TUeSdayS

5235 oak STreeT k anSaS CiT y, Mo 64112

816.235.80 0 0

ToyandMiniaTUreMUSeUM.org

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Kids in the Kitchen 9:30, Jo Co K-State Research and Extension. Join us to learn how to make fish! Class also covers food safety and basic cooking skills. $10. 913.715.7000

Major League Improv 7:30, ComedyCity.

A comedy sporting event with everything decided upon by the audience. $9-$13.

816.842.2744

Sunday Family Series 2:00, Ernie Miller Nature Center. Bring the family on Sunday afternoons for entertainment and education. $3. 913.764.7759

Species Spotlight 10:00, Kansas City Zoo. On the fourth Saturday of each month, the zoo shines a spotlight on an amazing animal.

Today’s animal: polar bears. KansasCityZoo.org

Danu 8:00, JCCC Performing Arts Center. A high-energy celebration of the Emerald Isle, Danu’s music mixes ancient melodies with contemporary works. JCCC.edu/theseries

29 Monday

Art Class 10:00, Nerman Museum. Learn about woven art and patterns and create your own layered design. NermanMuseum.org Leap Year Fun 10:00, Science City. Have fun with lots of leap year activities today at Science City! Only happens every four years!

UnionStation.org/sciencecity Maple Sugaring 1:00, Burr Oak Woods Nature Center. Learn how to tap trees, collect sap and make delicious syrup. Must pre-reg at 816.228.3766.

Saturday Feeder 2:00, Cedar Cove. During the winter, Cedar Cove hosts public feedings of the cats, weather permitting. $5-$7.

SaveOurSiberians.org

Kansas Women’s Basketball 7:00, Allen Fieldhouse. Before the game enjoy the Fun Zone, then watch the Jayhawks w to balance objects and juggle yourself!take on Texas Tech. KUAthletics.com

28 Sunday Farmers Market 7:00, the City Market. The market offers a variety of fresh produce, meat, specialty groceries, flowers and gift items.

TheCityMarket.org Da Vinci: The Exhibition Thru May 1, Union Station. Explore Leonardo da Vinci’s genius and experience his creations. UnionStation.org art + family = FUN 1:00, Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Join us every Saturday and Sunday for free activities for all ages!

816.751.1278 Tomás and the Library Lady 2:00, the Coterie.

One summer, Tomás visits the library. He discovers worlds filled with dinosaurs and tigers and a great new friend. TheCoterie.org

Gymnastics A New Camp Each Day!

3/10 Science

Come and learn what happens when different elements combine.

This camp is exploding with fun!

3/11 Art

Learn how to make play doh or make a colorful mosaic!

Let's get our creative juices flowing!

3/14 Circus

Come see the strong man balance things on his face and juggle!

Ladders, chairs, lawn mowers and more! Then try it yourself!

3/15 Frozen

Turn each other into a snowman, play with Elsa, go on a musical scavenger hunt, and enjoy a frozen snack and craft!

3/16 Super Hero

Transform into your favorite superhero...

Design your own cape and mask

3/17 Baking and Decorating

Wear your chef hat and create awesome cupcakes, cookies, and pretzels!

3/18 Princess

Wear your favorite princess dress and we will help you accessorize!

Create a crown and wand and dance with us at the royal ball!

www.integrityop.com

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kcparent.com february 2016

tumble@integrityop.com

Free Admission 9:00, Powell Gardens. Enjoy the beauty of the winter landscape as you stroll through the gardens. Free for Leap Day! PowellGardens.org Gym for Me 9:00, Lenexa Community Center.

Preschool kids can play with others while running, riding and bouncing during open play. $1. 913.477.7100 Story Time for Toddlers 9:30, MCPL (North Oak).

Enjoy a fun and interactive story time just for toddlers and their caregivers. Free. 816.436.4385 Power Hour 1:00, Little Monkey Bizness.

Arrive between 1:00 and 3:00 on Mondays and Wednesdays and admission is just $5 plus tax!

913.631.7000 Prep Course Thru May 2, Hoffman International. Course meets for 10 weeks and covers visual poise, skin care, cosmetics, hair care and more. Girls, ages 13+. 913.642.1060

psst...

&Metcalf

435

Spring Break Camps

Leap Day

age 3 & Up -potty trainedCost Per Day Camp

9am - 12pm $30 Pre-Register $35 At the Door Snacks Provided 9am - 4pm $50 Pre-Register $55 At the Door 2 Snacks Provided PACK A LUNCH 10% off for additional siblings (Must Be Family)

913-766-8918

we’re busy whipping up a juicy new issue for

march • summer camp guide • spring break • staycation • super sleepovers

kcparent.com february 2016

65

JOHNSON COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE 2015-2016 PERFORMING ARTS SERIES

25 TH

ANNIVERSARY SEASON

THE ROMEROS 8 P.M. SATURDAY, FEB. 20 The Royal Family of the Classical Guitar

DANÚ

featuring the Kansas City Chorale 8 P.M. SATURDAY, FEB. 27 A high energy celebration of the Emerald Isle.

MORE THAN

25

PERFORMANCES

AN AUDIENCE OF MORE THAN

25,000

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

EXPLORE KANSAS Feb 4

Family Science Night— Phenomenal Physics

Feb 6 & 7 Feb 13

ZooperBowl

Feb 13

Kiss & Tail

Feb 20 Feb 27

Teddy Bear Clinic

Mar 16

Milo the Chimp’s First Birthday Party

Mar 19 & 20

Superhero Weekend

CITY ZOO

Zootastik Learning Fest— Amazing Animals *for parents only **registration required

Species Spotlight— Polar Bears

Always a New Adventure!

Meet Milo!

Check On li for Zoo-am ne azin Education g al Experienc es!

kansascit y

zoo.org

Meet Masika!

OPEN YEAR ROUND OPEN DAILY kansascityzoo.org 816.595.1234

The Kansas City Zoo, a private, non-profit organization is operated in agreement with the Kansas City, MO Board of Parks and Recreation Commissioners, partially funded by the Zoological District in Jackson and Clay Counties in MO, and is accredited by the Association kcparent.com of Zoos and Aquariums. february 2016

67

Y CLUB Before and after school care program, providing a safe and nurturing environment for your children to learn, grow, and develop social skills. Our qualified, trained staff engages youth in active and purposeful play in a way that encourages them to exercise their bodies and their minds.

SUMMER DAY CAMPS We offer endless camp options to provide a quality camp experience that gives children the chance to learn life lessons, make new friends, explore the great outdoors or discover a new passion. Y summer camps are full of adventure and fun.

SPECIAL OFFER Text YOffer now to 74574 and get a free T-Shirt!

Stop in and check out the many benefits of a family membership, including FREE KIDS ZONE for ages 12 weeks to 8 years and unlimited group exercise classes.

OUR MISSION The YMCA of Greater Kansas City, founded on Christian principles, is a charitable organization with an inclusive environment committed to enriching the quality of family, spiritual, social, mental and physical well-being.

A UNITED WAY AGENCY kcparent.com february 2016

68

I BELONG

KansasCityYMCA.org