KC Parent Magazine February 2021

FREE | February 2021 | KCParent.com | Since 1985

SIMPLE WAYS TO SPREAD

LOVE

PRESCHOOL big lessons for little people

are you overparenting? take a quick quiz and find out!

BUDGETING

for your family’s future

LOVE WILL STOP AT NOTHING TO KEEP HER HEART BEATING.

Ziah was born with half a heart. Thanks to an at-home heart monitoring app invented by Children’s Mercy, her parents enjoy these smiles every day.

It’s another way that love drives lifesaving innovations to give families more moments just like this. See Ziah’s story at childrensmercy.org/lovewill.

Building Great Smiles for Life!

Four convenient locations near you!

kcparent.com february 2021

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FEBRUARY

2021

IN EVERY ISSUE 10 Date Night 12 Tasty Treats 14 5 Things WINTER FUN GUIDE, PGS. 46-59

15 Word from Dad 16 Dear Teachers 20 Ask the Experts 47 Craft Corner

FEATURES

SPECIAL SECTIONS 26 Camp Guide 46 Winter Fun Guide 60 Calendar of Events

24

26

48

Independent Kids

Camp Guide

Winter Blues

Simple ways to encourage independence in kids.

Time to start planning for summer camp adventures.

Fun ideas and activities to beat the winter blues.

Our cover features Channing from Prairie Village. Photo by Melissa Rieke Photography.

MelissaRiekePhotography.com FREE | February 2021 | KCParent.com | Since 1985

SIMPLE WAYS TO SPREAD

LOVE

ON THE COVER What Kids Learn in Preschool

22

Are You Overparenting?

42

Budgeting for Your Family’s Future

44

Simple Ways to Spread Love

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kcparent.com february 2021

50

PRESCHOOL big lessons for little people

are you overparenting? take a quick quiz and find out!

BUDGETING

for your family’s future

K 2021

O

C

ONVENTI

C O N C L U D E W I T H A V I R T UA L

Y

N

WHAT WILL KANSAS CITY BE KNOWN FOR NEXT? K I C K O F F I N JA N UA RY A N D

AS CIT

N

N F L T O T R A N S M I T I N S TA N T R E P L AY.

THE CONVENTION WILL

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VENTIO

S TA D I U M WA S T H E F I R S T I N T H E

F I N D O U T AT T H E K A N S A S C I T Y I N V E N T I O N C O N V E N T I O N

A

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kcparent.com february 2021

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EDITOR’SLETTER FEBRUARY 2021

H

Happy February, Kansas City!

Publisher Michael Gimotty Michael@KCParent.com Associate Publisher Darrell Dean Darrell@KCParent.com Editor Margaret Sarver Margaret@KCParent.com Art Director Kim Tappan Tappan Design Kim@KCParent.com Advertising Sales Debbie Clark Debbie@KCParent.com Darrell Dean Darrell@KCParent.com Digital Media Manager Kristina Light Kristina@KCParent.com Digital Media Intern Anna Hiestand 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 Kim Antisdel (Liberty), Christian Barnes (Kansas City), Bill Bartlett (Belton), Melissa Belach, Overland Park, Hannah Berry (Kansas City), Julie Collett (Overland Park), Janelle Cumro-Sultzer (Overland Park), Allison Gibeson (Lee’s Summit), Judy Goppert (Lee’s Summit), Lauren Greenlee (Olathe), Amy Hundley (Olathe), Gina Klein (Kansas City), Kristina Light (Kansas City), Regan Lyons (St. Joseph), Sarah Lyons (Olathe), Kerrie McLoughlin (Peculiar), Christa Melnyk Hines (Olathe), Emily Morrison (Independence)

Mailing Address 11936 W. 119th #335, Overland Park, KS 66213 913.782.3238 phone • 913.681.5139 fax OUR PRODUCTS FREE | February 2021 | KCParent.com | Since 1985

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SIMPLE WAYS TO SPREAD

LOVE

QUIRKY KC THE UNUSUAL & UNIQUE

JANUARY- MARCH 2021 | KCPARENT.COM

everything

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AMAZING ATTRACTIONS

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AGRITOURISM FUN ON THE FARM

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TASTEBUDS TANTALIZED

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3-DAY REUNION MAKE MEMORIES

BEAUTIFUL BYWAYS SCENIC DRIVES

the new baby

handbook PRESCHOOL big lessons for little people

plus

are you overparenting? take a quick quiz and find out!

NO MORE

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BUDGETING

NO PROBLEM!

for your family’s future

.com

ow are you when it comes to making a decision? Can you make one swiftly and then, once it’s made, not think twice? Or do you labor with every decision, looking at it from every angle and then reassessing even after it’s been made? I fall into the latter, although I have gotten better! When I was a new mom, I spent hours overthinking every little decision.

I can still vividly remember starting my older on solids. I labored over every meal I fed her because in the back of my mind I kept thinking, “This is the very first time that X will be introduced into her body.” I wanted to make sure I did it in the right way and that her little system wasn’t overwhelmed by all the new things she was eating. Looking back, I realize I was WAY overthinking it. Good news, though! Her eating habits turned out okay, and she has an adventurous palate!

Parents have to make decisions daily, and we have to teach our children how to be confident decision makers. Head to pg. 36 for tips on how to help your kids learn to make decisions (and maybe pick up a pointer or two for yourself!).

February brings thoughts of love and valentines! Even though it’s a short month, we’ve got great ideas on how you can share the love with your family all month long on pg. 50. Last year, I cut out a bunch of hearts, wrote on each what I loved about my family members and then taped the hearts to the mirror for them to find on Valentine’s Day. What are some special traditions in your home? Share with us on social media—we love to see what our readers are up to!

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

Member of:

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KC Parent is giving away

10 FAMILY 4-PACKS to Sea Life Aquarium or Legoland Discovery Center.

Details and to enter visit KCParent.com

Margaret Sarver, Editor

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, 11936 W. 119th #335, Overland Park, KS 66213

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kcparent.com february 2021

KCPARENTWEBSITE

KCPARENT.COM Even More Local Parenting Information, Articles, Events and Surprises

SEARCH KCPARENT.COM FOR MORE AFFORDABLE FUN IDEAS: 1. Best of February 2. Calendar of Events 3. Best Sled Hills

4. Hot Cocoa Recipes 5. Presidents Day 6. Kids Eat FREE

SPOTLIGHT

VALENTINE’S DAY Looking for fun ways to spend Valentine’s Day? Or need a date night idea for you and your spouse? Head to KCParent.com for a Valentine’s Fun Guide for family fun.

And, check out past Date Night columns for terrific ideas!

kids eat

FREE 7. KC Going Places Guide 8. Cabin Fever Busters

LABOR & DELIVERY GUIDE Choosing the best hospital for the arrival of your baby is an important decision. Use the KCParent.com Labor & Delivery Hospital Guide to find the perfect location for you and your child.

9. Coupons and Giveaways 10. FREE Fun in KC

4 MORE WAYS TO STAY CONNECTED

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

kcparent.com february 2021

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DATES WITH LETTER P

DATENIGHT

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kcparent.com february 2021

It’s February, which means Valentine’s Day … How about “p”lanning one of the following for a great date?

PLATE Located in Brookside is a modern Italian restaurant called Plate. We went for our first time on a Sunday evening and enjoyed a four-course prix fixe menu. Our first course was caprese with green and red heirloom tomatoes, fresh mozzarella and arugula. It was exquisite. Next up was the arugula salad, followed by an order of their focaccia bread with white bean and garlic spread. Wow! I cannot say enough good things about that bread. It pretty much melted in my mouth. Our main entrees were the pappardelle (him) and ravioli (me). Both were very different from each other, and both had awesome flavors. Last, but certainly not least, was dessert. White chocolate cheesecake with a blueberry gelée and candied blueberries and walnuts. We promptly scarfed it down. Plate offers comfortable dining and a friendly staff.

PAWN & PINT Do you and your significant other enjoy playing games? If so, pick an afternoon or evening and head to Pawn & Pint. It’s located downtown and is the area’s only board game pub. And, wow, do they have the games! Around 1,200 or so! When we went, we decided to try some we had never played before. We liked one of them so much, a card game, that we bought it online when we got home. While we were there, we also enjoyed some drinks from their bar and ordered pizza for delivery from KC Kitchen & Pizzeria. Pawn & Pint has partnered with them for food, as well as with the Homesteader Cafe next door. You can’t go wrong with either. And the best part is that you don’t even have to get up from your table. Pawn & Pint does impose a $5 pay-to-play cover charge, but it’s worth it for a fun and unique date night. We definitely will return.

THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA On a recent Saturday morning, we settled down in our cozy loft to watch a live, on-video production of The Phantom of the Opera done at Royal Albert Hall in London. I am 43 years old and had never seen this particular musical. I didn’t even really know the story. But I had always wanted to. And I wasn’t prepared for how emotional and heart-wrenching and poignant that story would be.

It drew me in from the very start and never let go. It’s the story of a deformed and murderous composer—feared by all—who lives in the catacombs below the Paris Opera House. And it’s also a story about a love triangle involving Phantom, a young soprano and her childhood friend. The cast was superb, with awe-inspiring talent. The costumes were impeccable. And of course, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s music stole the show. This production is the best you can get without actually being at the show. It combined the best of theater, opera and film. Truly a masterpiece.

Hannah Berry is a freelance writer who lives with her husband in Kansas City.

They enjoy regular date nights and love trying new restaurants and activities.

FOR GREAT DATE NIGHT IDEAS STARTING WITH A-O, HEAD TO KCPARENT.COM!

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kcparent.com february 2021

11

TASTYTREATS

Red For February & Beyond

What do the month of February and your body’s vital organ, the heart, have in common? Well, the color red, of course!

This February don’t let one of those traditional chalky conversation heart candies define your celebration when you could be incorporating these nutritious and delicious red foods all February long. Here are some fabulous February eats for you and your KC family to enjoy and cherish.

RED HEALTH BENEFITS

Phytochemicals, also known as antioxidants which include lycopene anthocyanins, are the hallmark of red foods and help maintain a healthy heart, lower the risk of cancers and support the urinary tract system.

RIGHTEOUS RED FOODS Tomatoes, red peppers, red onions, beets, red cabbage, apples, watermelon, grapes, plums, strawberries, pink grapefruit, cherries, pomegranates, raspberries, cranberries, tomato juice, pizza sauce, spaghetti sauce, kidney beans. a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a

RED FOOD RECIPES Heart-Shaped Pizza

Red Raspberry Smoothie

All you pizza loving KC kids and parents, try making this heart-shaped pizza with the finest crust for a fresh-out-of-theoven, nutritious meal.

Rich and creamy, this treat refreshes and reenergizes.

Instructions: Combine 1 cup vanilla-flavored yogurt and a handful of frozen raspberries and blend until desired consistency.

Gwen, a Leawood mother of five, says this beverage is a favorite for her family: “I make this raspberry smoothie for my all my kids for their breakfast, and we, as a family, often make it in the afternoon for a snack. The whole family cheers to this smoothie!”

Instructions: Shape whole wheat pizza dough into a heart. Spread with tomato pizza sauce and top with mozzarella, cheddar, provolone and parmesan cheeses, red peppers and tomatoes. Another fun option is to use cookie cutters to make individual hearts from pizza dough.

Red Polka-Dot Open-Faced Sammies These tasty treats will add a delicious new meaning to seeing spots.

Red Hot Popcorn Pop some of this cinnamon-rich snack with your kids’ help.

Have a Slaw

Instructions: Microwave some whole-grain popcorn, drizzle with some honey, melted caramel or nut butter, and massage in a rich amount of cinnamon. Add cranberries, dried apples or cherries. “We make this together and munch on it for our family’s weekend movie night. It’s so great,” says Paxton, the father of a Lee’s Summit teenager.

Move over, traditional mayo-based coleslaw. A crunchy, healthy slaw is on the table.

Red Fruit Salad

Instructions: Cut whole grain bread into a heart shape, spread your choice of peanut butter or other nut butter, and dot with dried cranberries or cherries. Optional: Top with jelly before you sprinkle on the dried fruit dots.

Instructions: Chop red onions, red peppers, red cabbage, apples, then richly dress with olive oil and white and apple cider vinegars.

For a tasty afternoon snack or simple side dish, try this fresh feast.

Instructions: Combine halves or whole bing cherries, red grapefruits, halved strawberries and halved plums. Simple, classic, easy.

a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a a

Amy Hundley is a registered dietitian nutritionist, licensed in both Kansas and Missouri, and a published freelance nutrition writer. She is currently practicing as a clinical RD and has been a resident of Olathe since early childhood.

Amy can be contacted at AmyHundley05@gmail.com.

Sources: Institute of Medicine, USDA

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kcparent.com february 2021

“Our dog, Holly, barks ask to poop go outside, “My dog, Ringo, likestoto eat and we cannot to breakexcessively. the habit. We but often,seem she vocalizes Whathave tried using seasoningfor salt on both would you recommend curbing the dogs’ extra food but that has not worked.

I have read vocalizations?” a– little about some pills they can take and Jennifer Prentice

not sure if that will work based on some of the reviews. you have anybut for this “This will soundDo counterintuitive, suggestions? It is so gross, and I am behavior I recommend teaching Holly the picking up the yard almost every day.”

‘speak’ command. When you teach a dog – Kim Lorns the ‘speak’ command, you also teach her the ‘quiet’ the process.

Useand the ‘quiet’ “Poopcommand eating is innormal for dogs command when need her to coprophagia. be quiet and puppies and is you referred to as use thebe ‘speak’ command play.illness, ” It can related to poorduring nutrition, anxiety, or sometimes it is just – Ashleyboredom, Flores, CPDT-KA

fun for them. I would recommend walking your pet on leash and picking up after your pet until they intome? their” new routine of “Why does my get cat bite not consuming their feces. Also, teaching the “Leave It” command will be beneficial.

Youmost cancases, also talk a vet about “In catsto bite when they nutrition are trying and changing foods.

Avoid punishment to communicate something to you such as because it may stop behavior short-term, not enjoying the interaction they are having but can cause the behavior to get worse.”

with you or becoming overly stimulated due to – Ashley Flores, the interaction.

To CPDT-KA make it more complicated, there are love bites. Love bites are when a “If Iisam traveling for the holidays, howThis do I cat licking and gradually begins to nip. keep my dog calm the car?” is mimicked from theirinmothers when they are kittens.

These bites normally do not draw – Dr. Rhiannon Koehler blood. There are different kinds of biting and “It is beneficial to start training your pet to understanding what type your cat is doing is get used to riding in a car prior to holidays. key to curbing unwanted mouthiness behavior I recommend just sitting in the car for some from feline.” then introducing yummy smallyour sessions, – Ashley Flores, treats, then goingCPDT-KA for short drives that end

“My dog, constantly barking up in funRemus, placesislike the park.

Makeatriding exciting!

ManyHis times, our go animals delivery people. hackles up, he has a associate a tripno to matter the vethow vicious bark,the andcar willwith not stop, which causes stress on our pets.

Offer I try to calm him. He is normally very sweet treats throughout the trip and make and friendly with people he knows. I havethe tried trips longer and longer.

Youwhen can aalso crate taking him outside on a leash delivery train your pet and use the crate to person is present, but he reacts the same each transport them. This is a safer option for time, even if he has seen the person several people and their pets in vehicles.” times and they give him treats. How do I get – Ashley Flores, CPDT-KA my sweet boy to stop being so reactive to new people both inside and outside our home?” the start of the pandemic, my shy cat –“At Kevin McCoy

seemed distressed that I was home all the time in “her” Eventually, we settled “It sounds like space.

Remus has a combination into a new routine and she has become of fear aggression and possibly territorial more affectionate, however, now when I aggression. These behaviors are not abnormal leave for a couple of hours, she is even more distressed when I come home. She behavior is easy to reinforce because dogs has not had litter box issues in the past but bark at the delivery person, person is now kicking litter out ofthe thedelivery box when I leaves once they drop off the package, and go to get groceries. Last night she even the dog believes of box! dragged one ofthe myperson socksleft intobecause the litter the barking.

Dogs repeat this behavior thinking How can I keep her stress levels down?”

that thePlemel barking is scaring people off and often – Teri the barking becomes more severe over time. anxiety in Remus’ pets has increased I“Separation recommend redirecting behavior due to more owners working from with high value treats by asking him to home. sit, Many animals are confused by these and rewarding whenever Remus gives the changes and have become quite attention to you. If Remus is over his threshold, frustrated. The best thing to do is to try and meaning you cannot break his attention, you keep a routine of “working hours” where should practice a further away.like You your pet is notatwith you. distance Most people can ask neighbors to practice this at different having their pets with them while they work distances frombut your house so you can practice from home, this is causing animals to without him goingattached over threshold.

You can become more and dependent, resulting frustration and command even aggression also teach in Remus the ‘place’ which when owners leave the startwhen involves teaching him to gohome to his or ‘place’ working in mail the office visitors and carriersagain.” come to the home.”

–– Ashley Ashley Flores, Flores, CPDT-KA CPDT-KA

Does your dog need help with the basics?

New classes are starting soon.

Please visit our website to sign up or learn more!

Scan the QR Code to sign up!

FIVETHINGS

Slippers

Just Watch If you, like I, are a bit overwhelmed by all the streaming services, then read on, because help is on the way! I recently discovered the Just Watch app, and it has made TV viewing so much easier!

Simply type in the title of the show or movie you want to watch, and you’ll get a list of where it can be viewed for free, for a fee, with a subscription, etc. No more scrolling through each service to see if the movie is available on that particular platform—hallelujah!

To know me is to know I love a good slip-on shoe. That’s one more reason summer is my fave—the ease of putting on flip-flops before heading out the door. I received these Ugg slingback slippers as a gift, and they are the perfect winter option for me! They slip right on and work for running out to grab the mail or putting something in the trash. And they’re sturdy enough to protect my feet from the cold. I have yet to wear them to run errands, but I have a feeling that will happen before too long! Ugg.com

5

THINGS WE

LOVE RIGHT NOW

Compiled by Margaret Sarver

Blender My girls enjoy making smoothies and fruit bowls, a task that typically involves lugging out the Ninja blender and then cleaning it. I must have been thinking about this when I received an ad online for an immersion blender. Game changer! This hand-held beauty lets you blend the fruit without extra pieces of equipment. I thought I was on the cutting edge with a new product, but my girls let me know that, as usual, I am not. Nevertheless, we got an immersion blender, and it’s a handy, great addition!

Amazon.com

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kcparent.com february 2021

Bible in a Year Every year, I resolve to read the Bible in 12 months, and every year I fall short. So this year, I searched for a plan on the Bible app and came across Bible in One Year with Nicky Gumbel and decided to give it a go.

This plan is organized really well, with a devotional that ties all of the readings together, along with five to six verses/chapters to read each day. No worries that it’s February—you can start now and go at your own pace!

Bible.com/reading-plans

Heart Necklace It’s no secret that I love jewelry. I tend to gravitate more toward classic looks rather than trendy costume pieces.

For years, my girls have worn Kendra Scott, but I never had a desire to own one for myself. Then I spied these heart pendant pieces and was swayed not only by how nice they look, but also the affordable price. I get so many compliments on mine, and anything with a heart holds a special place in my heart since my brother’s heart transplant.

Guys, be a valentine hero with this! KendraScott.com

WORDFROMDAD

why we don’t fight a

a

“Bye, sweetie.” I kissed Sandi as she walked through the door. “Call me when you get there.”

“You bet.” She smiled at me and entered the car, closing the door behind her.

I watched as she drove down the street.

“Dad?” James said, “Why don’t you and Mom fight?”

I closed the door and sat where I could see his face. “Why do you ask?”

“Whenever I see a husband and wife on tv, they almost always fight.” James stared at his tablet. “Why?” “What you see on tv is drama, and conflict makes the program interesting.

Real life is different. Nobody wants to live where there’s only disagreement.”

“How do people keep from fighting?”

“Here’s what Mom and I do.” I settled in my seat. “We communicate, listening as much as we speak. Many couples talk just when they’re fighting, but I’ve found that we can avoid yelling at each other by simply chatting now and then.”

James remained quiet while I continued.

“Mom and I treat each other like we’re still dating. When we walk, she’ll take my arm. I open her car door for her, not because she can’t, but because she’s special. Little things like that can keep a relationship fresh.”

“So, it isn’t very hard, is it?”

“Well, yes, and no. Doing the little things every day isn’t difficult. Remembering to do them and remembering why we do them takes more effort. And, there’s one more thing. Always, think of your partner first.

Mom does it for me and I do it for her.”

My phone rang, and I pulled it from my pocket.

“Hi, sweetheart.” Sandi’s voice came from her picture. “I’m here, safe and sound.”

“Thank you, beloved. Have a wonderful evening.”

I disconnected and turned back to James. “It isn’t rocket science.”

William R. Bartlett lives in Belton with his family.

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Q&A DEARTEACHERS

BY PEGGY GISLER AND MARGE EBERTS

SHOULD DOING HOMEWORK BE REWARDED?

HOW TO START A WRITING ASSIGNMENT

QUESTION: We are tired of nagging our children to do their homework. Do you have any suggestions about how to turn things around? Is giving rewards a good idea? – New Approach

QUESTION: My son in fifth grade is not doing well on writing assignments. It’s like pulling teeth to get him started. I am willing to work with him. What should I be doing? – Helpful

ANSWER: Few children are happy to do their homework,

ANSWER: Your son may well be slow in starting

yet this is an essential task they need to complete. Of course, having the intrinsic (internal) motivation to do homework for the feeling of accomplishment of actually learning something is what we would like children to have.

Rewards are an extrinsic (external) motivation. The danger of giving them is that they may cause children to put forth a minimal effort and even decrease intrinsic motivation.

Nevertheless, all extrinsic motivation is not bad, especially if children buy into the goal of doing well at school. So we are giving you some rewards that may help you push your children through dull homework assignments without nagging.

a writing assignment because he is unsure of how to approach the task. This is an area in which you can help him.

A common problem is selecting a topic when this is left up to a student. Sometimes just too many topics appeal. You can help by having him write his top choices on cards. Then discuss together the merits of each topic and eliminate them one by one. If he can’t make a final decision, have him shuffle the remaining cards and then draw one at random.

Getting the first words on paper is often a roadblock in the writing process. It can help to have your son write all of his ideas on cards.

Then he can lay them out on the floor and place related ideas together. You will probably have to help your son find the most important idea that will serve as his topic sentence. Once this is selected, the other groupings of topics can be arranged in the order that they will be used. Within each grouping, the ideas can be arranged in their order of importance. At this point, the paper has nearly written itself.

Parents should send questions and comments to dearteacher@dearteacher.com or to the Dear Teacher website.

1. Promise a fun activity if homework is completed. It works best if children can choose the activity. It’s rather like the light at the end of the tunnel to inspire kids to get to and complete their homework.

2. Give money for completion of homework when no parental reminders have to be issued.

3. Offer extra time or special activities with friends or family.

4. Offer additional time with their favorite media.

5. For daily success in completing homework, a sweet treat can be given—not an entirely healthy approach.

6. Let the children pick their own reward.

Our homework contract (search for it on our Dear Teacher website) offers a solid approach to getting children and parents to resolve all homework issues.

Rewards can be built into this contract.

© Compass Syndicate Corporation, 2020

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kcparent.com february 2021

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BookFlix is an online literacy resource that pairs animated stories with real-world concepts for early readers up to 3rd grade. Young readers will build their vocabulary as they engage in animated stories and interactive games related to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Rosa Parks, Ruby Bridges, Harriet Tubman, and Jackie Robinson.

FreedomFlix features all of Scholastic’s Cornerstones of Freedom books, which can be read online, as well as short videos and suggestions to explore topics further. Titles related to Black History Month, including the Underground Railroad, Emancipation Proclamation, Brown vs. Board of Education, and the Civil Rights Movement, will help older students (5th grade and higher) better understand the struggle for freedom and equal rights for African Americans.

Just for Kids Access Video on Demand gives older elementary and middle school students a fun and educational place to stream a wide variety of videos without advertisements. Videos vary in length and include education-related topics including math, ABCs, science, and history. Included among the videos are the stories of Frederick Douglass, NASA’s Katherine Johnson, Thurgood Marshall, and others.

Teachables, a Scholastic product, offers a wide variety of learning resources that can be used by teachers and caregivers. The thousands of resources include teacher-created lesson plans, activity sheets, and mini books for grades K-8 that share the stories of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Harriet Tubman, Thurgood Marshall, Jackie Robinson, and Rosa Parks, as well as Langston Hughes, George Washington Carver, Alvin Ailey, Jr., Wilma Rudolph, and others.

For teens who may be working on a research assignment, or for parents who are looking to refresh their own knowledge, African-American History is another great resource. This comprehensive reference resource covers more than 500 years of African American history, from the slave trade to the Civil Rights movement to the present day. It includes biographies, images, timelines, maps, and charts, as well information on such subjects as the Harlem Renaissance, the Abolitionist Movement, and more.

Librarians have also created lists of book and DVDs for adults and kids of all ages that will be available to put on hold in the Library’s online catalog for curbside pick-up.

All Mid-Continent Public Library resources are free to access with a Library card.

Visit mymcpl.org/BlackHistory for more suggested resources. Anyone in the Kansas City area may apply for a Library card online at mymcpl.org/NewCard.

LINDA HALL LIBRARY A KC TREASURE

BY KRISTINA LIGHT

H

ousing a treasure trove of resources, the Linda Hall Library of Science, Engineering and Technology is an invaluable resource for the greater Kansas City area. Their slogan, “Where Science Lives,” is a fitting descriptor for the research library offering thousands of resources for those studying technology, engineering and science. Research librarians are on site ready to help students and adults alike as they delve into projects. Your students may consider a visit to the library to research their ideas—and your whole family will want to take advantage of the library’ s beautiful 14-acre arboretum and amazing online resources for S.T.E.M. learners.

The library isn’t a traditional local library with stacks of books to explore. The closed stack research library hosts visitors who work directly with research librarians who use their vast knowledge and experience to help you find the best resources for your project. To use the resources, you visit the reference desk, provide an I.D. and receive a borrower’s card so you may use the system. Currently, the library is open on an appointment basis only for research, but the online catalog is open around the clock, and they offer drive-by pickup.

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This year, the library is hosting the KC Invention Convention, a new competition for students from fourth through 12th grades in the Kansas City area. Learn more about this event on KCParent.com.

In addition to the physical library, Linda Hall Library offers other fantastic resources for S.T.E.M. learners. Their online exhibitions and their How Do I Become ____? Series are wonderful for young people!

More Resources for Middle & High School Students

How Do I Become ______ ? Series

The 14-Acre Arboretum

One of the library’s coolest programs is the How Do I Become ______ ? Series. The series is recorded and available free online for students. Experts in various S.T.E.M. fields share the ins and outs of becoming a S.T.E.M. professional, including careers in rocket science, engineering, meteorology, forensic science, computer science and invention.

Online Exhibits

The library also offers a variety of amazing free online exhibits on subjects including the history of flying machines, space exploration, the transcontinental railroad, dinosaurs, nature, conservation, natural disasters, sharks and much more.

The Linda Hall Library’s online resources encompass additional assets for your students:

n

STEM Quizzes

n

The library has hosted many lectures over the years, and you may watch past lectures on an array of subjects here: LindaHall.org/videos.

The grounds surrounding the library are home to a beautiful 14-acre arboretum that is free and open to the public. The grounds are especially lovely in the spring and autumn and are a favorite place for exercise, quiet respite, dog walks, photographers and nature lovers. This is a great place to enjoy a beautiful green space in the heart of the city.

The Linda Hall Library has been one of Kansas City’s most treasured academic resources for decades, offering much for families to enjoy and encouraging a love of science as well.

5

Favorite Online S.T.E.A.M

(Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics)

Resources

1 Kansas City Zoo Animal Cams:

The Kansas City Zoo animal cams show the zoo’s all-star animals at play (and sometimes at sleep) 24/7. The penguin cam is our favorite, but the polar bear cam and giraffe cams are pretty special too! KansasCityZoo.org/animal-cams

EVERY BOY BECOMES A MAN. THE QUESTION IS, WHAT KIND WILL YOURS BECOME? Since 1889, thousands of parents have looked to Missouri Military Academy to give their boys the structure, responsibility and love they need to grow, compete and thrive — and become young men in full command of their lives.

MMA

M I S S O U R I M I L I TA RY A C A D E M Y

2 Nelson-Atkins at Home:

From online galleries to art lessons and inspiration for your own artistic creations, the Nelson at Home is an extensive resource to cultivate your love for art.

Nelson-atkins.org/nelson-atkins-at-home

3

Serving grades 7 through 12 PG Since 1889 • Mexico, Missouri 888-564-6662 • missourimilitaryacademy.org

Cool Science Experiments: Steve

Spangler is known for bringing super cool science to late night television and wonderful STEM products kids love. You’ll find great ideas for at-home experiments at YouTube.com/user/TheSpanglerEffect.

National Museum of Toys and 4 The Miniatures Virtual Programs: Learn from experts in STEM fields through ongoing virtual programs.

ToyAndMiniatureMuseum.org/programs-events

5 Crafts:

For simple craft ideas using things you already own, check out TheBestIdeasForKids.com. They have seasonal ideas as well as year-round crafts. kcparent.com february 2021

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ASK THE EXPERTS

MEET THE

EXPERTS We have a wide range of experts on hand to answer your questions on everything from dental visits and playdates to dance lessons, lawns and so much more!

If you have a question that needs answering, get in touch.

Dr. Jeremy Fry

Dr. Michael Greenfield, MD, FAAP, FACP

FRY ORTHODONTICS

ADVENTHEALTH

At Fry Orthodontics, we have been providing superior service to patients of all ages for more than 40 years while helping them achieve a healthy and beautiful smile.

913.469.9191, FryOrthodontics.com

AdventHealth Shawnee Mission’s pediatricians and primary care providers offer compassionate, expert care for children of all ages. Find a provider at AdventHealthKC.com.

Anna Esparham, MD

Megan Maciel

CHILDREN’S MERCY HOSPITAL

KVC KANSAS

Children’s Mercy is one of the nation’s top pediatric medical centers. With hospitals and specialty clinics in Missouri and Kansas, we provide the highest level of care for children.

816.234.3000, ChildrensMercy.org

KVC Kansas provides heart-centered services to children and families through in-home family support, foster care, adoption, behavioral health care and children’s psychiatric hospitals.

913.499.8100, Kansas.kvc.org

ASK THE EXPERTS...If you have a question, send it our way and we’ll ask one of our experts to answer.

Email editor@kcparent.com and put “Ask the Experts” in the subject line.

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

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ASK THE EXPERTS

Q

Q

How can I keep my child’s teeth from shifting after the braces have been removed?

Do my kids need sunscreen in the winter?

Holding teeth straight following orthodontics is one of the greatest challenges for families and for orthodontists. As we get older, the natural pressures of the muscles of the face and the pressures of the tongue cause the teeth to shift. Whether someone has had orthodontics or not, teeth will nearly always change over time. After the investment of money and time, no parent wants this investment to be for nothing! Retainers following braces or Invisalign are critical to protecting this investment.

At Fry Orthodontics we provide retainers for life for free! We want to be as invested as families to ensure the teeth stay straight.

Dr. Jeremy Fry

Though sunscreen is not always thought of as a priority during the winter, it can actually be as important to your children as hats and mittens. While the overall amount of UV radiation is slightly diminished in the winter due to change in angle between the earth and the sun, this can be offset by reflected UV radiation from snow and ice. In addition, outdoor activities like skiing, for example, are done at high altitudes where there is less atmosphere to absorb UV radiation. Finally, UV exposure is cumulative for not only skin cancers, but changes in skin due to aging, and while your child may not burn as easily in winter, any unprotected time in the sun adds to the cumulative amount of exposure in their lifetime.

Michael Greenfield

Fry Orthodontics

Pediatrics and Internal Medicine AdventHealth Medical Group Internal Medicine & Pediatrics

Q

Q

What are some common causes of headaches in children?

A friend of mine provides respite care for foster families. What exactly is respite care?

Headaches are one of the most common disorders in childhood, with up to 60-75 percent of children reporting that they have had a significant headache by the age of 15. Headaches are generally caused by several factors, with the most common being inherited by their parents (genetics), stress, social relationship difficulties, and environmental triggers (weather changes). The top three triggers of worsening headaches are stress, sleep, and weather changes.

Stress (or emotional pain) is usually the number one factor that makes headaches hard to treat. Our emotional pathways are intertwined with our physical pain pathways, and one can affect the other.

Fostering and providing care for children on a daily basis takes a big commitment. Why not consider respite care? Respite care providers give foster parents a break for one night or a weekend, so it’s similar to foster parenting but much shorter in length and a great way to see if foster parenting is right for you. Respite care gives foster parents temporary relief from caregiving, allowing them to rest and spend time with their families. If you are a trained respite caregiver, then you may qualify to provide evening or weekend care for a child that is living with another foster family.

Anna Esparham

Director of Recruitment and Communication, KVC Kansas

Director, Headache Treatment Center at Children’s Mercy

Megan Maciel

kcparent.com february 2021

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what do kids learn in

? l o h c o s r e p

i

may be dating myself, but when I graduated from kindergarten, I needed to be able to say all the letters of the alphabet and recite my address and phone number from memory.

Although I’m sure I learned other skills throughout the year, that was the final test.

My, how things have changed! Kindergarten students are now reading, writing, doing addition and, sometimes, subtraction by the time they move on to first grade. In fact, as crazy as it may sound, if a child doesn’t have some pre-K skills, he may start kindergarten behind his peers.

“Academics is a part of what we do, but they have to be able to do critical thinking, walk in a line, make good choices and selfregulate before kindergarten,” says Michele Isringhausen, director of Colonial Presbyterian Child Development Center in Overland Park. “When they get into kindergarten, they need to be able to hit the ground running. They no longer have the luxury of learning social skills in kindergarten; they have to be able to focus on academics.”

Isringhausen is a former kindergarten teacher who remembers juggling four young children with a husband who traveled frequently. She says she tries to create a community to support the kids’ developmental needs, as well as the parents’ emotional needs. “I wanted to be able to give parents the benefit and opportunity to build community. To know that I’m not in this by myself. That there are others that can come along beside me and help me.” Early education can also give outside teachers an opportunity to notice when a child is struggling with speech, attention or sensory issues and to offer educated advice on how to move forward.

Minka Rudman, preschool lead teacher & early childhood coordinator at The Barstow School, notes that in addition to academics, in preschool children “are

learning how to regulate their feelings, finding strategies that help solve problems, learning how to make friends and understanding their wants and needs. They practice their gross motor skills, develop an awareness of the world around them, learn what it means to be a good citizen, practice self-help skills and so much more.”

According to the Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE), this is essential: “Play and academics are not an ‘either or.’ For children birth to 8, play is an essential element in learning.” So is a positive learning experience. Often, we think that algebra and chemistry classes are the most important part of a child’s education, but it’s actually the reverse. The experiences a child has in early education lay the foundation for any future learning opportunities. The KSDE says, “Early childhood experiences, from birth through age 8, are necessary for school success and have a direct influence on future success.”

Setting a foundation for success is at the heart of early education. “Learning to get along with others, learning to make friends, learning to share, learning to wait, and the consequences of our actions. We learn respect for others and authority,” Isringhausen says. “It’s important for kids to learn that at an early age, especially right now in our culture. We teach that we don’t all agree. We look different and think differently, and that’s okay.”

Now that kindergarten is a full day, which can equate to about 40 hours a week in school, giving preschoolers the opportunity to spend 10-16 hours in a structured environment gives them a leg up in handling the pressure and transition to a regular school day.

Isringhausen says that they do spend time on letters, numbers, sight words, STEM and STEAM activities and other academic concepts, but the most important skill they give to their students is a love of learning and a firm foundation to launch into an academic world that is getting harder each year.

Christian Barnes lives in Kansas City with her husband and two nearly grown sons. She’s fascinated by how children think and learn and enjoys sharing any information that she’s gathered with others.

Creating a Preschool Environment on Your Own For many parents, sending their kids to a preschool or development center is not feasible or desirable. If that’s the case, you can still create an atmosphere of learning by being intentional about what you surround your children with and how you structure your day.

One of the most important things you can do as soon as your child is born is talk to her. Even though she may not understand what you’re saying, by the time a child is 2, she will have a 200- to 300-word vocabulary.

Reading to your child will also develop speaking and vocabulary skills, bumping his word pool up to the 2,000-word level by the time he is 5.

Growing up in a larger family will help children develop their social-emotional needs simply because sharing, helping and caring for others is a part of their everyday lives. But for those in smaller families, you may need to arrange playdates to give your kids the opportunities to practice these essential skills. Pick one lesson, such as sharing, letting others go first or practicing kindness, and talk to your child about that thought before the playdate. Work on one thing at a time, especially in young children, until it becomes a part of their regular routine.

Homeschooler Carissa Jones says she finds she is able to teach her children best by including them in the everyday routines of life.

“When I’m making pancakes and we need a cup of flour, we look through the measuring cups together to find the cup. When you’re out watering the garden and you talk to your kids about how the plants need sun and water, what bugs are eating the lettuce and how to stop that, they are learning about the world we live in and how it works.” But Jones acknowledges that it can be hard to include young ones when you just want to get the job done. “It takes patience and time, but your kids will absorb what is around them.”

She has also gotten together with families and used the curriculum A Summer of Playing Skillfully

by Kathy H. Lee and Lesli M. Richards, which lays out a fun, interactive curriculum of guided play for preschoolers. “We would each take a month and plan the activities and host it once a week.

The kids were learning, but they didn’t realize it because they were playing. We had five young kids between us, and it worked because we were able to take turns so it wasn’t too much for either of us.”

The preschool age is a time for kids to adjust to the fact that they aren’t the center of the universe, to learn to care for others and to grow in independence. It’s an incredibly important time of growth and maturing for little ones that can take place inside a classroom or, with some extra effort, inside the home.

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23

WAYS TO ENCOURAGE

independence

a

EVERY DAY

lthough some of you parents out there may not want to hear it, your children are going to grow up. It’s true! They’re going to become teenagers one day, and once that stage is done, they’ll take off to college and enter adulthood. It can be a scary thought for sure, but what’s even scarier is that some children out there will grow up without knowing the first thing about being on their own.

Children crave independence from an early age. They want to do things on their own and feel competent. And although some parents do a great job encouraging their children to do things for themselves, others back away from their children’s desires for independence because they don’t want their babies to grow up. The truth of the matter is this: When you encourage a child to do things for himself, his self-confidence improves.

Here are a few great tips to encourage independence at different stages in your child’s life:

Ages 2 and 3: When your toddler is curious about exploring and can leave your side for short periods of time, this is a sign he is ready to stretch his wings. Encourage his curiosity, but be sure to supervise closely at all times.

Ages 4 and 5: At this age, your child is probably ready to play on the sidewalk or in the front yard without you right by her side. Keep an eye on her and make sure she knows not to wander off. You can draw a line with sidewalk chalk on the driveway to let her know her boundaries in which she can play.

Ages 5 and 6: Is your child good at following directions?

If so, he is probably ready to try walking to a nearby friend’s house by himself. Arrange a playdate with his friend’s parent, and then tell your child exactly what to do. Be sure to watch him from your front door or porch until he arrives (or have his friend’s parent call you when he arrives), and remind him that he cannot leave or go to another house.

When it’s time for him to return home, tell him to call you (or have the parent call you) to let you know when he’s on his way home so you can watch out for him.

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Ages 7 and 8: This may be a good age to begin letting your child cross the street by herself, especially if she has good impulse control and the patience to make sure no cars are coming. But don’t just let her go off on her own right away.

First, be sure she knows the basics well, such as looking both ways before crossing and not running between cars in a parking lot. Regardless of how experienced you think she may be, practice with her on a quiet road. Have her cross the road with you following behind her for a couple of weeks.

Then have her practice crossing by herself and meeting you on the other side. If you live on a busy street with a lot of traffic, however, wait until she is over the age of 10.

Ages 10 and up: Children over the age of 10 who behave well at home and consistently follow safety rules (i.e., not opening the door to strangers) may be ready to stay home for short durations of time by themselves. Begin with brief outings, 20 to 30 minutes. Be sure your child has your phone number and knows how to call you and leave a voice mail message. Post emergency numbers where he can see them and

be sure he knows how the locks on all of the doors work. Also, be very clear on what he can and cannot do while you’re away.

Tell him when you will return and then be on time.

Ages 13 and up. The teen years may seem a little more daunting, only because your teenager will want more independence and time away from the house. Just breathe, folks. Begin by giving your young teen jobs around the house to prepare her for the working world. Regular household chores are great to start with, and babysitting jobs will give kids skills for their futures. And when your teen reaches the legal working age, encourage her to get a part-time (or summer) job. This can lead into lessons on money management, another great way to help kids feel competent when they do leave home.

Kansas City mom and author Gina Klein makes her two daughters responsible for chores each day. Chores are written on their chore chart to alleviate the need for constant reminders.

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Special Advertising Section

Trolls, Wildcats School Musical, Disney on Stage, Instrumental Music, Girl Power, Recording Studio Basics, Art Explorers, Painting, Clay Creations, Itty Bitty Ballet Camp, Faerie Tale Dreams Ballet, Hip Hop, Jazz, Ballet & more! COVID SAFE! Openings limited! See display ad on pg.

27. 913.393.3141. Enroll online: www.CultureHouse.com

Kansas City School of Music Kansas City School of Music, the premier music school for children and teenagers in the Kansas City area, offers summer camps in piano, guitar, violin, viola, cello,

KC Parent’s

Camp Guide

voice, musical theater, music theory, jazz theory, chamber music, keyboard ensembles, and worship music. All camps meet Monday through Friday for three

The Culture House

“JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH JR”

hours each day. Morning and afternoon

Spend your summer at The Culture House!

(10-13), “DISNEY’S LION KING KIDS”

camps are available. Private lessons

Shows/workshops include dance, theatre,

(6-11), Broadway Musical Intensive, Into

are also offered in the summer. Visit

music and art taught by professionally

the Unknown, Arabian Nights, Improv

www.kansascityschoolofmusic.com or call

trained adults. “BRIGHT STAR” (13-20),

Comedy, Ovation Ensemble, Music of

913.888.2444. See display ad on pg. 28.

Continued on page 33

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kcparent.com february 2021

CAMPGUIDE

questions to ask when looking for overnight camp

S

ummer camp? Already? It’ll be here before you know it, and believe it or not, it’s not too soon to begin researching what overnight camp(s) your child may want to participate in this year. It’s not as easy as just signing up, though. At least, it shouldn’t be. As a parent, you’ll want to make sure your child will be happy and well cared for in someone else’s charge. In order for this to happen, be sure to do your research ahead of time and ask questions before you hand over your money—or child. Here are some important things to ask to ensure you find the perfect camp.

Is my child ready for overnight camp?

How does your child do at sleepovers with friends? Is he excited about the idea of going away? If your child has reasonable social skills and relates well with others, she will do well at camp. Once you’re sure your child is ready, look at the basic requirements. Some camps are open to all kids, while others require certain skills or have other admissions criteria.

Math, science and technology camps, in particular, may have prerequisites.

How long has the camp been in operation and what licenses does it have?

Be aware that state licensing requirements vary widely, and in many cases are minimal. Great news if the camp is accredited by the American Camp Association, but remember that

Summer Camp for All Ages

Beginner Piano • Disney Keyboard Ensemble • Cello and Chamber Music Violin/Viola and Chamber Music • Music Theory • Jazz Theory • Worship Music Beginner Guitar • Guitar Chords • Junior Voice • Voice • Musical Theatre SINCE 1997

12201 W. 87th St. Pkwy, Lenexa, KS 66215 • 16010 Metcalf Ave., Overland Park, KS 66085 913-888-2444 • www.KansasCitySchoolOfMusic.com

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some programs are too new or small to get ACA accreditation. And if the camp isn’t the right match for your child’s personality, even an accredited one can be a thumbs-down.

What is the camp philosophy?

What kind of experience do you want your child to have? Will your child get to work in a group, collaborate with other kids and/or learn how to work with a team? Find out how much flexibility the children will have in making their own schedules, how many activities are available and how much unstructured social time there will be. Only you know what your child will need.

What are the qualifications of the director and staff and the ratio of staff to children?

Some camps employ high school or college students, while others require college degrees and more experience.

Both are fine, but make sure the staff is engaged and interested in interacting with the kids. As for the director, it’s important to know how long that person has been directing the camp and what his or her background is. The leader-tochild ratio varies depending on the type of camp. ACA accreditation requirements range from 1:5 for overnight campers who are 4 and 5 years old, to 1:12 for day campers ages 15 to 17.

What are their safety procedures?

Make sure the camp does background checks on all employees, has EMTs nearby, staff trained in CPR and first aid and lifeguards if there will be swimming. If transportation is involved, ask about the training and licensing of drivers, how often vehicles are inspected, etc.

What is their approach to conflicts that may arise?

Too much unstructured time can sometimes lead to conflicts between campers. Ask the camp director directly how they deal with situations like this, and make sure you’re comfortable with it.

What do others say about the camp?

Learn more about the reputation of the camp by checking these three things: its return rate, accreditation status and references. If it’s a good camp, people come back. Ask the director for references. Check out the camp website and online reviews, and you may even visit the physical site.

Happy camping!

Gina Klein is a homeschool mom and author who resides with her two daughters and husband in Kansas City.

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CAMPGUIDE

S

MATCH A

CAMP TO YOUR CHILD

ummer is an exciting season, full of family fun and activity. With no school and kids in need of entertainment and adventure, it can also be a stressful time for parents. Many families take advantage of summer camps to add to their child’s engagement over the summer.

When you begin exploring all the options for summer camp, you’ll be wanting to find the right fit for your child. Camps run the spectrum as far as activities, duration and location are concerned. To help you plan a summer that is both engaging and stressfree, we have rounded up a quick guide to finding the right camp for your kiddos!

ART CAMPS. Does your child love to draw, paint and create? Art camps can vary between all-day programs and halfday programs and offer your child the opportunity to learn new and interesting ways to express creativity. This is also a fantastic way to score some beautiful new art pieces to display on the fridge!

June 7 – August 13, 2021

Join us for summer camp at one of our five KC Parks & Recreation community centers.

7:30 a.m. Ͳ 5:30 p.m. • Monday Ͳ Friday • Ages 6 Ͳ 13 Day Camp: $80/week Hillcrest • Kansas City North • Southeast Tony Aguirre • Westport Roanoke

KCPARKS.ORG

20% discount if paid in full by May 1. Financial assistance available.

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SPORTS CAMPS. Does your child have boundless energy and a competitive spirit? A sports camp might be the answer!

Many programs focus on a single sport, such as gymnastics, soccer or basketball, while some sports camps provide days dedicated to each sport and cover a variety throughout the duration of the camp. “We love basketball camp during the summer. It lets my boys run around, it helps them learn new skills and it gives us a bit of structure during the long days of summer,” says Gwen Collins, Kansas City, KS, mom.

THEATER CAMPS. Does your child enjoy performing? Give theater camp a try!

Singing, dancing and acting are all aspects of most performing arts camps. “Theater camp has been such a blessing,” says Michelle Willis, Kansas City, MO, mom. “Our daughter loves to sing and perform, and trying out the camp was a great way for her to learn about the theater and see if it was something she wanted to explore further.”

EDUCATIONAL CAMPS. Is your child looking for a new academic challenge?

Education focused camps could be a great option. These camps vary widely, so be sure to investigate what options are available in your area. Some educational camps are focused on a single subject, such as math camp. Other types of academic camps cover a variety of subjects and offer a range of academic challenges.

OUTDOOR CAMPS. Does your child love the great outdoors? From Scouting camps to wilderness adventure camps, options abound for sleep-away camps that get your kids involved in outdoor activities. “Our kids go to sleep-away camp every summer for two weeks,” Mark Doogan, Shawnee dad, says. “They get to spend time boating, playing games outside and sleeping in bunks with their friends. We get to spend some time finishing house projects and sneaking in a few date nights. It is a win-win for everyone!”

Some additional things to take into account when selecting a camp:

• Consider your child’s age and ensure the activities are appropriate. Not only should you consider how long the sessions last, but also whether your child will be able to keep up with the activities. Kids have the most fun in an environment where they can succeed.

• Find out where your child’s friends are going to camp. Depending on your child’s personality and age, going to camp may be more comfortable with familiar faces. Ask your child whether she prefers to go with friends or strike out on her own and make new friends.

• Cost can vary widely between camps and is based on multiple factors. Make sure to learn the cost of the camps your child is considering and align the choices with your family’s budget. Many camps offer different pricing options based on different camp schedules and different program lengths.

Melissa Bellach is a freelance writer, wife and mom of three living in Overland Park.

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Camp Guide Write-Ups

CAMPGUIDE

Continued from page 26

Preparing Happy Campers

Genesis Mighty Camp At Mighty Camp, we leverage everything we do to maximize fun, increase positive self-talk, and build problem-solving skills. We leave parents proud of their child’s growth!

Camp includes 9 different sports, daily swimming, field trips, STEAM activities, cooking, improv, and yoga.

Through our well-rounded camp programming, we create environments where children thrive! Mighty campers spend their days playing,

w

hile it feels strange to be reading about summer camp with snow and cold temperatures still plaguing us, believe it or not, you are right on time! Camp registrations start soon (some probably already have), so let’s take a look at how to tackle this sometimes overwhelming process.

Whether you are looking into single day or weeklong camps, or even overnight ones, the best place to start is by figuring out what interests your children. Just because you want them to participate in something doesn’t mean they will want to … and why waste the money or haggle with your kids each time they must go? Meredith, mom of one, says, “My husband and I both enjoyed playing tennis when we were in elementary school, so we signed our 8-year-old up for a weeklong half-day camp.

She didn’t enjoy it, and luckily we hadn’t made a long-term commitment of time and money to lessons.”

Once you’ve narrowed down interests, look at your family calendar and determine which days and weeks are available. While doing this in February can be difficult, at least plug in the things you know to be nonnegotiable.

At this time, you’ll also want to consider just how busy you want the schedule to be, which can be different depending on how many children you have and what they are involved in. I thought scheduling several activities into June and basically nothing in July last summer would be great for our family. The reality was, having so much downtime in July was difficult

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laughing, growing, connecting with friends, and being celebrated for who

for all four of our kids—and me—so we’ll definitely plan things differently this year!

Once you have determined interests and schedules, do the actual research to see what last piece of the puzzle will fit … the camps!

Angie, mom of two, says, “Start researching camp options early. Some camps offer a discount if you register early, plus this also guarantees a spot for your child in the camp that best fits with your schedule.” Meredith says, “We waited too long to enroll last year and missed out on a few opportunities we had hoped to participate in.”

Don’t let the many local and nearby options overwhelm you. Chat with other families to see what camps or places come recommended—and maybe even see whether a classmate wants to join your child in camp. This could be particularly helpful if considering an overnight camp.

Summer camp is a time-honored tradition that can create a lifetime of memories. “We are lucky to live in an area with so many great resources!” Meredith says. “City and county recreation centers, school districts, gyms and dance studios offer a wide variety of camps that last anywhere from an hour to a full day. You name an activity, and I bet there is a camp for it!” So, get out there, do your research and start registering!

they are. See display ad on pg. 26.

Julie Collett writes from Overland Park and is hoping her children will want to try a new camp this summer.

www.leawood.org or call 913.663.1954

GenesisHealthClubs.com/camps

KCMO Parks and Rec Get ready for 10 weeks of fun with KC Parks Summer Enrichment Camp!

This year’s camp includes educational enrichment opportunities, crafts, games and safe socialization. KC Parks follows CDC guidelines for all our programs. Campers will also enjoy guest speakers, art projects, sports and more! Camp is $80 per week.

Visit www.KCParks.org for details. See display ad on pg. 30.

Leawood Camps The City of Leawood Parks, Recreation and Cultural Arts department is offering a variety of summer camps for all ages and interests! Join us for creative and engaging art camps, fun and active sports camps and day camps, and curiosity inspiring nature camps. Increased staff, social distancing and mask wearing will be used so everyone can enjoy the fun safely! Reservations are open, visit to register today. See display ad on pg. 29.

Madam President Madam President Camp is a week-long virtual and in person camp that helps girls ages 9-13 years old learn about themselves and positions them for civic and community leadership. We provide six camps in June at locations across the Kansas City community in a safe, healthy environment with health protocols in place. Each camper completes a special project with

BRING ON THE

FUN

a mentor. Campers learn about government, leadership, negotiation, giving presentations and team building.

We offer scholarships. See display ad on pg. 33. www.MadamPresidentCamp.org

Summer at Barstow Kansas City’s favorite summer camps for kids ages 3-14! Choose from 500+ offerings. Campers love Summer at Barstow’s action-packed adventures in creative arts, athletics, academics and STEAM. Parents love our experienced instructors, 4:1 camper-to-staff ratio,

Register with code KCP21 to receive $15 off. day camps • overnight camps • grades 1-12 splash parks • ropes courses • faith-building activities

youthfront.com/summercamp NEW FOR 2021! Risk-free booking available with our optional Camp Protection Plan. Cancel for any reason and get your money back.

extended care & affordability. NEW THIS YEAR: Outside the Box offerings for parents and kids—plus an exclusive college admissions bus tour. May 24Aug. 13. View catalog & enroll at www.barstowschool.org/summer. Email summer@barstowschool.org or call 816.277.0445 for more information.

See display ad pg. 31.

Youthfront Bring on the fun! Youthfront Camp is excited to welcome campers and families this summer. Overnight and Day Camp sessions are available for students entering grades 1-12. Camps feature splash parks, theme nights, zip-lines and more. At Youthfront, kids can grow in their relationship with God and make friendships that last a lifetime! Family Day Passes will also be available for a limited time. Learn more and register at youthfront.com/summercamp. See display ad on pg. 33. kcparent.com february 2021

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10 Ways

FOR MOMS TO HAVE MORE ENERGY

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eing a mom is a rewarding job, but it has a way of quickly using up all of your energy.

Errands, sleepless nights, extracurricular activities, school projects, laundry and carpool duty are just some of the things that compose a mom’s endless to-do list. By the end of the day, feeling depleted of energy is all too common for many moms.

So how does a worn out Wonder Woman recharge? Everyone finds different things give her that added boost to get through the day.

Here are some ideas to get you started.

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Spend time with friends A quick and enjoyable way to recharge your batteries is to spend time with friends. Set aside the worries that go along with parenting for a few hours and talk and laugh with friends. If getting out of the house for dinner is too hard, schedule a coffee date while the kids are at school or a playdate that allows the moms to chat while the kids play happily.

Another great way to make sure you get a night out is to schedule a monthly dinner, book club or game night with

friends. The predictable date eliminates the effort of figuring out schedules, and the fun is more likely to happen if it is on everyone’s calendar each month.

Exercise Adding exercise to your daily routine seems like it would use up more energy, but the truth is exercise actually can give you more energy. As your body moves, your heart pumps more blood, which delivers more oxygen to your muscles. “As your aerobic fitness increases, your body

becomes more adept at moving oxygen into the blood, which makes your muscles more efficient—and more efficiency equals less energy usage,” according to LiveStrong.com. On the other side of things, obesity has been linked to fatigue and low energy levels.

Eat healthier It’s no surprise that eating a healthy, well balanced diet gives you more energy to get through the day. We’ve all eaten fast food or relished a piece of cake—a choice that tasted good in the moment but left us feeling sick and sluggish later. Although the occasional treat is fine, choosing healthy items gives you the most energy and keeps you feeling your best, according to Health.Harvard.edu.

Get a good night’s sleep For some moms, this is easier said than done. You may have a child who still wakes at night, or you may be tempted to stay up late or rise early to work on your long list of to-do’s. If you’re like me, you find yourself enjoying a moment of quiet so much that you stay up late watching TV or reading a book and miss out on time you could be catching up on rest. We all know that a full night’s sleep is going to give us more energy the next day.

Listen to your body. If you need to go to bed early or take a nap in the afternoon, allow yourself that break so you are rested. The to-do list will be waiting for you tomorrow.

Treat yourself If you had a few hours to do whatever you wanted, what would it be? Go out to lunch with a friend? Enjoy a spa day?

Curl up with a good book? Whatever comes to mind, make it happen. This may not be feasible every week, but on occasion, you have to allow yourself time to do something you really want to do in order to boost your depleted energy. Ask for help from your partner, a friend, or hire a babysitter to make it happen, then treat yourself. Remember that caring for ourselves is part of what makes us able to care for our families better.

Take a quick pause There are days when I am overwhelmed by the things on my plate and the kids are pushing every button. I find myself struggling to get through the hardest days, and I end up short-tempered and exhausted.

A friend suggested that each day I take 10 minutes for myself in the afternoon to reset my attitude. Some days this is simply taking a shower during nap time, other days it is sitting down with my coffee and just taking a moment to focus on my breathing.

Sometimes, sitting down and snuggling with my kids while they watch cartoons gives me a moment to rest and recharge.

A quick and enjoyable way to recharge your batteries is to spend time with friends. Set aside the worries that go along with parenting for a few hours and talk and laugh with friends.

work/home/life balance, but then we look at our calendar and it feels out of control.

Choose carefully what you commit to when it comes to kids’ extracurricular activities, volunteer opportunities and other obligations.

Overcommitment can cause stress and zap all your energy. Saying no is hard for many of us, but chaos is not good for internal peace.

Self care As moms, we easily become so busy caring for everyone else that we forget to take care of ourselves. Do things that maintain your mental and physical health. Practice good hygiene, go to yearly checkups at the dentist and doctor, do monthly breast exams and find things that take care of your mind and body. By choosing to care for yourself, you are teaching your kids that health is a priority and that you want to be an active and energetic part of their lives as long as possible.

Let some things go

Protect your time

The one thing I have learned from being a mom for 14 years is that it’s okay to let some things go. There are only so many hours in the day, and sometimes I find I have no energy for doing the dishes. Although they cannot be ignored indefinitely, they can be ignored for a few hours. If my child wants to wear mismatched clothes, I consider whether a fight is worth my energy and usually decide to let it go. Most household chores can wait until tomorrow if I need to sit down, play with my kids, talk to my spouse and recharge my energy. I know that the to-do list cannot be ignored forever and not every problem can simply be let go. However, when your energy is depleted, it’s okay to let go of some things—even temporarily—in order to be a more attentive, patient and energetic mom.

In 10 years, no one will remember whether my house was clean (it isn’t), but they will remember that we laughed, snuggled and did our best each day. They’ll also remember that sometimes Mom needs a break to recharge, and that is important too.

One of the biggest struggles parents face is lack of free time. We have good intentions of spending quality time with those we love, taking care of ourselves and creating a good

Mom of six Sarah Lyons lives in Olathe with her family.

Schedule a date night Parenting is hard work for both moms and dads. Many weeks my husband and I find ourselves passing each other like ships in the night as we take kids to different practices and activities, leaving us little time to talk and reconnect. When we begin to feel distant, it’s time to schedule a date night. This helps both of us relax and recharge. If a babysitter isn’t in the budget, put the kids to bed early and enjoy a late dinner or a movie together.

Sources: Livestrong.com/article/467052-does-cardio-give-you-energy, Health.Harvard.edu/healthbeat/eating-to-boost-energy kcparent.com february 2021

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ways to nurture a confident decision maker

It’s never too early to instill self-confidence in your children, and you may learn along with them!

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e adults often struggle with decisions we make, from selecting the dinner menu to changing jobs to buying the right car. Some choices, of course, are bigger than others— and this is how our children feel as they learn and grow. They decide what toys they want to share, how they want to dress for school and which friends to make.

To take the dread out of making decisions, parents and children both need to strengthen a key character trait: self-esteem. This characteristic is incredibly valuable for your child’s happiness and well-being throughout life. This development begins in early infancy and continues into adulthood, and when it’s

nourished, your son or daughter will be more successful in school and life.

Quite simply, self-esteem means having the confidence in one’s own ability to do anything. It also involves liking who you are as a person and believing in yourself. Early development of this thinking sets a firm foundation for your children. When they feel good about themselves, they are better able to feel liked and accepted and believe in themselves, which makes them more responsible and self-motivated. When they are confident, they will be better decision makers and have more willingness to believe that old adage if at first you don’t succeed, try, try again.

Cultivating self-esteem begins at home when you make sure kids feel loved, safe and accepted. Some children may have more trouble believing in themselves than others, and it is up to you to recognize this and always praise your children for any job well done. Notice, too, when they put in hard work—regardless of the outcome.

For a parent, letting go is hard, but parents need to allow failure to happen.

The experience is an important learning tool and allows you to then encourage your children to try again. Create little helpers of your children, for example, in the kitchen, in the garden and in the laundry room.

Then praise them for their efforts and be supportive and positive. You set a huge example when you put effort into your own daily tasks as a parent, and having that positive attitude makes all the difference.

There are countless opportunities to create a self-confident child. Once, when my children had a chance to select a toy to give their cousins for Christmas, I noticed my son was always asking his sister, “Is this the toy I should choose?” She then made the decision for him. I made a point to tell him that whatever he chose, be it a stuffed animal, a Barbie doll or a baseball bat, it was his choice. This worrying about input from others can cause anxiety, and teaching your children to rely on their own opinions will serve them well in school and on into college and marriage.

Child psychologists point out that more introverted children tend to be overthinkers, and learning how to make quicker decisions can be a development process. As parents, we can try to help guide children at a younger age. Remember to empathize but try not to solve the issue for them. Do listen without jumping in and don’t attempt to rob them of age-appropriate decision-making practice. If we always talk them out of it or into it, they rarely get the chance to practice their own decision-making and problemsolving skills.

A family therapist suggests using words like “seems like” and “sounds like” to help

A family therapist suggests using words like “seems like” and “sounds like” to help children identify what they are feeling. For example, “It sounds like you are not sure you want a dog, seems like you are feeling stuck.” children identify what they are feeling. For example, “It sounds like you are not sure you want a dog, seems like you are feeling stuck.” This makes them aware that their feelings are important and they can calm down and take time to think about and make their own choice.

For girls, there is an important connection between risk-taking and confidence. Make sure you take the time to tell a daughter you cannot make the decisions for her—and make sure she knows you are confident she will make the right choice. Look for small moments to make choices. Perhaps in the grocery store you can let your son or daughter decide whether the family will have broccoli or green beans for dinner.

As your children get older and become teens, keep the ball in their court as much of the time as possible. For example, if you are constantly directing your child to go out for the basketball team, when you hear him say he wants to go into acting, try not to steer him into something he is not good at. This robs him of opportunities to choose what is fulfilling for him.

When we tell our children, “That didn’t hurt,” or “Wear your jacket or you’ll be cold,” we subtly undermine their own assessment of different situations. This hampers their growth into adults who trust their own opinions. Simply put the jacket in the backpack, Mom, so it’s handy if needed.

Encouraging your children to make their own decisions will help them resist temptation when other friends are doing

any activity they don’t think is a good choice. Help them get in touch with how they feel when they choose to follow their inner compass at an early age. This practice helps them recognize when that behavior does not match their goals or beliefs.

Discuss learning to live with regret, and that part of making decisions is at times making the wrong ones. Let your kiddos feel regret and help them find ways to work through the discomfort, such as writing the regret on a piece of paper, crumpling it into a ball and throwing it away, or folding it into a paper airplane and sending it flying.

This symbolic act holds a deep meaning and will stick with them. There is always a next time!

It is quite normal for any child to struggle with self-esteem, and as a parent, you will always find ways to support your child through individual struggles and encourage positive self-esteem. The most precious gift you can give your children is love, a safe haven and nurturing relationship at home. This way they will know that whatever happens, they can count on you to never say, “I told you so!”

An avid outdoors girl, Judy Goppert lives in Lee’s Summit. She enjoys drawing on her personal experiences to write about the nuances of everything wonderful about life.

Sources: SanfordHealth.org, WashingtonPost.com kcparent.com february 2021

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ou can’t see the forest for the trees. Adults understand this adage. In other words, focusing on the small details or temporary aspects of a situation clouds our ability to see the bigger picture. And while we have had many years to see, finally, that forest in all its glory, our children are not so prepared.

For those little ankle biters of ours, even the smallest difficult situation can seem insurmountable.

In grief, sadness and big feelings, children often mistake temporary emotions as permanent. To help them through, it is paramount we parents have our children’s back, no matter the circumstance. And like all things in parenting, the task certainly is not easy.

Here are eight ways to help your children navigate the valleys, so they can quickly get back to the peaks.

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Unconditional love – Your children should never, at any time, wonder whether you love them.

Whether they are experiencing something painful that is their fault, or completely out of their control, you must lead with love.

Start difficult conversations with, “I love you, no matter what. Now, let’s talk about why you put glue in your sister’s hair.”

Turn off your mouth – This is not the time for grand speeches or well, when I was your age anecdotes.

Just zip it. Ask your child to tell you the whole story, beginning to end, in her own words. Don’t rush her. Fight the urge to interject with questions.

Ways to Get Through the Tough Times Today: 1. Say, “I love you.” Maybe you already said it twice today. Say it again.

2. Have a snuggle session. Pop the popcorn and put on your child’s favorite movie. You are not allowed to look at your phone the entire time. Watch the movie, even if you’ve seen the teenage mermaid get legs 1,000 times. Be present.

3. Initiate a late-night surprise. If you have a teen who is struggling, trust that he loves nothing more than junk food at midnight. Set an alarm (because I know you go to bed at 9:30) and order a pizza. Eat it together and just talk.

4. Make your child your valentine. It’s the season to shower your spouse with love but surprise your kids by making a special Valentine’s package for them. It doesn’t have to be anything expensive or overblown. The thought is truly what counts.

Stay still, maintain eye contact and listen with your whole body. This sounds relatively simple, but it’s one of the most difficult things in the world to do. Parents want to fix and make it all go away. But your children must learn to be the head coach in their own dilemmas. Let them.

Ask, don’t tell – If your child has gotten into a sticky situation, do your best to let him work the problem. Remind him that the answer is there, and you’ll find it together. What does he think the next step should be? If you think his solution isn’t adequate, explain why and offer an addendum. Never tell him what he’s suggested is wrong or bad. No one ever learned a lesson by being shut down.

When you get to a resolution, praise him for working through it to come to the right answer.

Be humble – It may seem like the cloud floating over your child’s head is inconsequential. There are bigger problems are out there, right? Wrong. To your child, this problem in this moment feels overwhelming. Especially in these unprecedented times, everything feels amplified. A minor kerfuffle with a good friend might feel like the end of the world. A B+ for a normally straight A student could feel like the shattering of an expectation she didn’t even know she had created for herself. Don’t presume to know why your child is getting so down about an issue.

Get support – Hold onto your hat because this might surprise you. You do not know everything. Not by a long shot.

Every child has his own set of quirks and peculiarities that shape and form his reactions to tough times. Some of those situations are far enough outside our abilities to parent that additional help is needed. Counseling and therapy are great tools to utilize if your child’s sadness or dark times fail to improve in an acceptable amount of time—or worsen. Put your ego aside and recognize when the issue has gone past your own abilities.

Share your feelings – As a kid I remember I couldn’t wait to be an adult so I wouldn’t fear the basement anymore.

What an interesting surprise I received when, as it turns out, I still skip the last basement stair, so a ghost doesn’t grab my ankles. Kids need to know their parents are human beings. It creates an instant bond when they realize they are not alone in their emotions. Share stories from your childhood that mirror what your children are experiencing. And though it might seem like their eyes are glued to the ceiling, know that the words are sinking in. It’s in a child’s contract to act like everything you’re saying is stupid.

Try a new approach – As kids grow up, they may not feel comfortable sharing everything with you face to face.

Embarrassment or worries about being judged can keep us frozen in our fears.

Remove the fear by offering a more detached approach. Create a box in your house like a suggestion box you would see at a store. Let your children know that every night you’ll check that box for notes. Anytime the kids need help, they can write their problem or question on a piece of paper and put it in the box.

When you read it, you’ll have the gift of time. You and your partner can gather your thoughts and address the note when you’ve processed how the issue can be handled. Your child gets the benefit of not having to say uncomfortable things out loud. Win, win, win.

Offer praise – Times are hard.

Harder than many of us have ever experienced. Give the kids a break.

They are navigating through issues like acne and applying eyeliner, and their parents are home all the time. Make a true effort to praise them for the little things. Did they throw their lunch trash away without being told? This is a win!

Thank them for what they bring to your life and reiterate how proud you are of them. Share with them that you know how difficult things are, and you are going to come out of it together. Better and stronger than ever.

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

kcparent.com february 2021

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want to move your family abroad? nine essential tips to get from here to there

W

hether you’ve been assigned to another nation for work or long to globetrot with your family for other reasons, you may wonder how realistic an international move is, especially with kids.

The idea isn’t as far-fetched as it may seem.

According to four-time expat Jessica Drucker, an expat coach and author of How to Move Abroad and Why It’s the Best Thing You’ll Do, nearly nine million Americans have made the leap to live in another nation.

“American expats would make up the 12th largest state in the United States if counted together,” Drucker says.

Know your “why.” Before pulling up stakes and moving your family abroad, consider the reasons why you want to relocate to another part of the globe. Perhaps you’d like to introduce your children to another culture or language.

Or, maybe you’d like to “find somewhere with a slower pace of life where you actually have time to see each other; where a student having weapons at school is unheard of; or where you can travel to cities and countries nearby that would have been impossible to find time to visit while based in the States,” Drucker says.

Emily Maher, an author coach, teacher and a mom of a 6-year-old, has lived in Bogota, Colombia, for the past 10 years. She says she dreamed of living in a place that was “stimulating and exciting” ever since she was a child.

“When I was in my 20s, I moved around a lot within the United States and other countries, but never quite felt at home until I met my husband and we fell in love in Bogota,” Maher says. “I loved how the culture was warm and caring on the one hand, and yet it was urban and stimulating at the same time.”

Consider your child’s age and temperament. To determine how well your child might adjust to an international move consider his age and stage of development. A teenager who is centered in peer relationships may have a harder time adjusting to a new country compared to a young child whose parents are the center of his universe.

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If your child is more of an introvert, research suggests she may struggle with more nervousness or anxiety in the midst of a major change.

“But there are also surprises,” says Katia Vlachos, an expat transition coach currently based in Switzerland and the author of A Great Move: Surviving and Thriving in Your Expat Assignment. “Perhaps the introverted child will be better able than the extroverted one to deal with the unavoidable loneliness of the first few weeks after the move. You know your child best.”

Plan the essentials. Whether you’ve been gifted time to plan your move or your move is immediately pending, it’s crucial to get your paperwork and finances in order before you go.

“This may include residence and work permits, financial and tax matters, medical matters, other kinds of insurance, bank accounts,” Vlachos says.

The amount of paperwork and the timing to process that paperwork can vary by nation.

Break up big priorities into smaller tasks and create a timeline for yourself with what needs to be done when and by whom.

“If your move is sponsored, it’s important to be proactive—pay attention early to what kind of support your employer is providing or could potentially provide,” Vlachos says.

Scope out schools. As you research your new destination, learn about the school system to determine what will be the best fit for your child or teen. Many American, British and international schools follow a similar curriculum to the U.S. and can make your child’s adjustment easier, while also teaching the local language. But these private schools can be expensive, especially in large urban areas where the cost of living is higher.

“You will also land in more of an expat bubble, whereby you are meeting families of fellow expats more than locals,” Drucker says. “This can feel great to have friends who understand your difficulties, but can be harder to fully integrate over time.”

If you and your family don’t speak the local language, consider hiring a tutor. And keep in mind, younger kids generally learn other languages easily and are likely to adjust quickly in a local school system.

“If you are moving to a country where you know that the level of public school education is similar (or better!) to what you expect back home, then consider enrolling them in public school,” Drucker advises.

Expect a few bumps in the road.

Transitions are challenging no matter the circumstances, but culture shock, language barriers and general uncertainty around the unknown may have you second-guessing your decision.

“The adjustment phase can be hard. It can be hard when your kids look to you for answers, and you don’t have them, or if you are going through culture shock, and they are not. You can feel a little left behind, like why can’t you adjust and they can?” Drucker says. “It is a lumpy, uneven process with ups and downs, and there will definitely be times where you doubt why you ever did this to your family in the first place. That is why it is very important to know your ‘why.’”

To help your kids adjust, get them involved in activities they already enjoy in your new home. If they love soccer, for example, explore options for a soccer program. Not only will this help them connect with new friends, you’ll also begin to meet other families.

“Parents are often surprised at how much more quickly their kids integrate than they do. They are in school, so you meet other families. They learn the language faster than you do, consume pop culture more quickly and just generally integrate much more easily,” Drucker says.

Bridge the gap. “Something that’s critically important, but most people don’t think about when they move, is reflecting on how to make sure the family will feel at home,” Vlachos says.

Thoroughly research your destination to get a sense of what daily life is like where you are headed, including the climate, people, history, social norms and values.

“Building this familiarity helps create a sense of home much faster,” Vlachos says.

“As you research your new home, think of the elements of your current life that you would like to include into your new life. What will you miss the most? Your house, your rituals, the food, the music? Research will help you identify the best ways to maintain a connection to the elements of home that mean the most to you.”

Beware of getting too attached to your way of seeing or doing things, which can make you feel isolated in your new location.

“If you hold too tightly to the perspective of where you came from, you may always feel awkward,” Maher warns. “Question your beliefs and know your real values. People

will accept you for who you are if you’re confident in who that is. Then you can choose what you like from both cultures.”

As the mom of a son, Maher says she particularly embraces the family-centered nature of her adopted country and the tight bonds typically formed between mothers and their sons in the Latino culture.

“But I also like being casual and authentic about the way I look and express myself, which is far more American—blue jeans and sitcom sarcasm,” she says.

Acknowledge the sacrifices. You and your children will likely feel the pain of saying goodbye to close friends, family and familiar routines. You may miss out on major celebrations and life events like funerals, weddings or anniversaries that you otherwise would have attended.

Vlachos recommends acknowledging and allowing yourselves to grieve these losses.

Tap resources. Gather as much information as possible through books, magazines and online resources.

“Remember, millions of people have gone before you and many have created content to help you follow in their footsteps. The resources are out there for you to find,” Drucker says.

Reach out early to other expats in the nation or city where you are headed. Expat groups in specific cities and countries can be found across Facebook and are excellent resources as you research housing, schools, typical transition issues, cost of living, climate and social norms.

Follow local bloggers to discover as much as you can about your destination.

You might also consider hiring an expat transition coach. These seasoned folks can share their experiences while delivering timely, expert advice. They can answer your questions, address specific challenges and ease the stress and uncertainty surrounding a move abroad.

Celebrate the rewards. “The world is only going to be more and more connected,” Drucker says. “Giving your kids the gift of being global citizens with global connections and an ability to operate in a global environment is only setting them up for the kind of success the future requires.”

Freelance writer and former military brat Christa Melnyk Hines lived in Germany as a child and remembers those four years as some of the happiest of her life. kcparent.com february 2021

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are you

overparenting?

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arents want the best for their kids and have a strong desire for them to be successful in every endeavor. This tendency certainly is borne of positive intentions, but it can backfire, leaving kids unprepared for the natural consequences and realities that come with everyday life as an adult. According to the Cambridge Dictionary, overparenting is defined as “too much involvement by parents in the lives of their children, so that they try to help with or control everything that happens to the child.� Kids who are raised in this environment struggle in college and beyond with basic tasks, common disappointments and self-sufficiency. How do you know whether you are overparenting? Here are some common pitfalls parents can easily fall into and some tips to turn these tendencies around.

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COMMON PITFALL: Power struggles Do you often find yourself having a heated debate with your child about something that isn’t important in the grand scheme of things? For example, you may be tempted to argue about your child’s clothing choices, their room not being clean enough or their not playing with toys the “right way,” Perhaps you have strife simply because your child approaches a task differently than you would tackle it yourself. This is a sign you may be overparenting.

TURN IT AROUND: When you find yourself in the middle of another power struggle, pause

QUIZ: ARE YOU OVERPARENTING? (Check all that apply)

o I often argue with my child about small things.

and reflect about whether it is worth debating. Your children will learn problem solving skills and gain independence from doing things their own way. If it doesn’t work as smoothly as the way you would have done it, that’s to be expected. They will learn the lesson and adjust naturally on their own. The best part will be less arguing and stress in the home.

o I struggle to say no to my child. o I struggle with allowing my

COMMON PITFALL: Lack of natural consequences

o I often rescue my child if I think

One of the hardest things about parenting is watching your children fail. If they don’t make the team, get a bad grade, break a toy or have a disagreement with a friend, parents are often tempted to step in and fix the situation, so their children are not hurt or disappointed. Although intervening seems like a good thing now, it can cause long-lasting challenges for your kids.

TURN IT AROUND: Let them try, make mistakes, and deal with the aftermath—positive or negative—that comes from their actions. Facing natural consequences is hard, but kids who do so are better prepared for making decisions as adults, when the stakes are much higher, and the choices can be life-altering.

COMMON PITFALL: Lack of responsibilities A common sign of overparenting is a lack of age-appropriate expectations and responsibilities. It is tempting to do all the chores around the house, help your children with homework assignments, allow them to give up when things get tough, clean up for them, and assist them with daily tasks they can do on their own. Kids often surprise us with how much they can do by themselves when given the chance to try.

TURN IT AROUND: Start by choosing one task and let your child know he will be

child to make his/her own choices. he/she might fail.

o I hide or fix disappointments

or consequences, so my child doesn’t have to face them.

o I tend to worry about things other parents don’t.

o I compare my child to other children.

o I sometimes argue with other adults about how they treat my child.

o I don’t expect my kids to pitch in around the house.

o Our life is so full of activities we don’t have any downtime.

responsible for it from now on. Teach him how to do it, let him know you are there to answer questions and help, but he will need to do the task on his own. The task will likely be a struggle at first, but over time he will gain competence and gain a sense of pride. Soon he will be ready to take on more responsibilities and harder tasks.

o I often find myself picking up

COMMON PITFALL: No time for traditional play

o I struggle to find interests and

Traditional play and downtime are important for kids’ development because they promote creativity and allow your children rest from the structure and pressures that school and extracurricular activities bring. If your children have so many scheduled activities that they have very little free time, it may be due to overparenting. The best approach is to find a good time balance that equally promotes both traditional play and activities such as sports or artistic interests.

TURN IT AROUND: Ask your children what they are truly interested in and reduce the rest of the activities to allow more free time. Keep in mind their choice may or may not be the activities they excel at. Allowing your children to choose their activities outside the home is important as they gain independence and allows time for them to develop their interests rather than spreading them too thin.

Parenting is challenging, and changing behavior is even more so. Give yourself grace and make small changes one at a time. Talk to your partner or a friend and ask for support and a fresh perspective on the situation. Try to be receptive to caring suggestions rather than defensive about your actions. Talk openly with your child about some changes you would like to make and why. The hard work will be worth it when your child develops into a healthy, selfsufficient adult ready to face the challenges and successes that life brings.

Sarah Lyons is a part-time freelance writer and a full-time mom. She lives in Olathe with her family.

after my child.

o I tend to get overly involved in my child’s relationships.

hobbies outside of my kids.

o If things get hard, I allow my kids to give up.

o I notice my child is unable

to do things his/her peers can do independently (dress, cook a meal, keep track of assignments, etc.).

o If something scares me, I don’t allow my child to try it.

o I often give in to my child’s

requests if he/she pesters me long enough.

If you checked any of the boxes above, it may be worth loosening the reins a bit to make sure you aren’t falling into the habit of overparenting.

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BUDGETING for your family’s future

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f you feel like your household’s financial situation is out of control, you’re not alone. According to a 2015 report by Pew Research Center, more than 60 percent of Americans consider their financial position to be poor to fair.

Interestingly, a 2013 Gallup poll gives a possibly greater indication why: Only onethird of Americans build and maintain a budget.

Budgeting, the act of tracking what you make and what you spend, is a critical component to preparing for the future.

When done right, a budget can provide peace, stability and the satisfaction that comes from meeting short-term and long-

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term goals. All too often, however, couples stop before they start, viewing a budget as restrictive, frustrating and confusing.

It needn’t be that way! A budget simply informs people of where their money goes, and that knowledge is essential for building a realistic financial plan for the future. As the old adage says, if you don’t have a goal, you’ll miss it every time. Budgeting, then, establishes a target and guides your aim toward it.

One of the primary reasons couples struggle with budgeting is because they haven’t found a system that works for them.

Here are some keys to getting a good budget rolling.

Work together. More than likely, one of you loves to crunch numbers while the other couldn’t care less—and you probably don’t even have to consult with each other to figure out who fits which category best!

If only one person has a vested interest in financial planning, however, a budget will not operate. Because money comes into a household and out of it together, it also needs to be worked on together as a couple.

Conversations about money can get tense easily when there is financial strain, and the tension only compounds when you’re not on the same page regarding how to go about it. Avoiding the subject only prolongs the inevitable. Keeping an open line of

communication—and being willing to compromise in order to achieve a goal— not only positively impacts your finances, but also reaps tremendous benefits in a relationship.

Work consistently. A budget needs to be viewed as a living, breathing organism.

Your financial situation changes over time just as your family situation does, whether it’s the result of irregular cash flow, a change in careers or the addition of a new child. Making a budget once only accounts for your finances in that exact moment.

A budget is like a road map that needs to be consulted frequently. Just as detours are provided on a GPS, so couples need to adjust their budget as their finances change. Meeting frequently makes work more efficient and, when coupled with a date night, can be something to look forward to. Michael Gerstman, CEO of Gerstman Financial Group, notes that challenging each other to save a certain amount or hit a certain bank balance has an added benefit: “Once you have a budget in place, some people look at it as a game.

Reaching your goals is fun!”

Work graciously. Opposites attract both in relationships and in finances.

Perhaps one of you is a spender, while the other is a saver. Or maybe you’re both natural spenders but don’t agree on how the money should be spent. Giving space for your differences can actually help bring you onto the same page. “One of the best pieces of advice we got before marriage was to have an individual allowance,” Amanda Hanigraff, a mom of three and family counselor notes. “Our finances are one, but my husband and I have always had our own discretionary fund each month. When we were young and newly married, we gave each other $10 a month personal spending money, but it’s gone up with our income over the years. This predetermined amount is hands-off. If he

QUICK TIP One of the biggest non-fixed expenses of a family budget is groceries. Couples can trim the fat by meal planning (avoid making trips to the grocery store hungry and without a plan), couponing or planning around sales, shopping bi-monthly or buying in bulk. Meal planning not your thing? Consider Emeals, an inexpensive meal planning app that takes all the guesswork out for you. You determine your diet (Keto, gluten free, etc.), choose which store you’d like to purchase from, and they devise a menu option that stays within your budget.

wants to spend his allowance on something I don’t care to do, he can do so without my input. Likewise, if I want to buy something that doesn’t appeal to him, I can do so with freedom.”

Work long-term. Getting started is always the hardest part, but once you find a system that works for your family, it’s just a matter of keeping it up. Like all good things, a financial plan requires some time and effort, but it needn’t be complicated either. All that’s necessary is a pen, a piece of paper and a calculator.

Here are some budgeting tools that can help you stay the course: The Envelope System. This was probably your grandparents’ way of budgeting, and it’s still as good today as it was then. Simply pull cash aside for expenses like groceries, gas or clothing and stick each category in its own envelope for the month. When the money is gone, so is your spending. If you prefer not to carry cash but still like the satisfaction of seeing where your money has gone, you can still use this method. Simply write

the name of the month and the amount allocated for the category on the outside of the envelope. Then place receipts in the proper envelope after using your debit or credit card. Lastly, subtract each transaction amount from the total you’ve allocated on the outside of the envelope.

Replace your envelope every month.

Online Budgeting Tools. Many banks and credit unions offer free budgeting tools or apps that track your spending for you. Check with your banking service to see what options are available to you. Other online budgeting tools, such as You Need a Budget (YNAB), Every Dollar and Mint, offer various free budgeting services (while, for a few dollars more, they will allocate everything for you directly from your bank account).

Lauren Greenlee is a homeschooling boy mom and freelance writer hailing from Olathe. Always on the hunt for ways to save money, her favorite resources are Dave Ramsey, Jordan Page and Crystal Paine.

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Special Advertising Section

Winter Fun Guide Ceramic Cafe Ceramic Cafe is a paint-your-ownpottery and glass fusing studio serving the Kansas City area. Our creative assistants guide you through the creative process; showing how supplies and techniques can help the inspired and help those who need an extra boost of inspiration to create a masterpiece they are proud to call their own! The whole creative process from start to finish takes about a week. Reservations recommended and paint-at-home kits available for purchase. See display ad on pg. 59.

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Colonial Gardens We are an experience to inspire.

Colonial Gardens is a garden center & agritourism destination in Blue Springs, MO. We are shaping hearts & minds through food, flowers, & trees.

We provide nursery & greenhouse products, landscaping & hardscaping materials for every season of gardener!

From tree disease to houseplant bugs, compost, & patio pavers, if you’ve got questions, we have answers.

Join us for a workshop or book your next event! See display ad on pg. 53.

ColonialGardensKC.com

Family Tree Nursery Family Tree Nursery is a team of passionate horticulturists, providing an abundant selection of annuals, perennials, trees, shrubs, houseplants and more. Our staff is backed by years of experience, knowledge and integrity.

We believe that our passion for plants helps to set us apart. We invite you to walk through the doors of our unique locations to experience the magic that has made Family Tree Nursery a premier garden center destination. See display ad on pg. 3. FamilyTreeNursery.com

Johnson County Museum Featuring award-winning long-term and changing exhibitions as well as public and school education programs,

the Museum is a great place to spend the day learning about our county’s history and having fun in Kidscape, our hands-on exhibit.

The museum has been recognized over 20 times for excellence in exhibitions, programming and publications by national, regional and state organizations. The Johnson County Museum also operates the Lanesfield Historic Site in Edgerton, KS. See display ad on pg. 53. JCPRD.com/museum

Kansas City Zoo Explore the Kansas City Zoo. With more than 1,700 animals on 202 acres, it’s the most affordable family fun for kids of all ages. Travel all over the world without ever leaving the Kansas City Zoo. Visit Polar Bear Passage, Helzberg Penguin Plaza, the Discovery Barn, and Stingray Bay. Stroll down Tiger Trail and through Elephant Expedition. Let your cubs run loose in the Tropics and see the animals of Australia. See display ad on pg. 67.

KansasCityZoo.org

Legoland Discovery Center LEGOLAND Discovery Center is Kansas City’s ultimate indoor LEGO® playground! Surround yourself with millions of LEGO Bricks, take flight on Merlin’s Apprentice, blast skeletons on Kingdom Quest ride adventure, see your favorite characters on LEGO 4D Theater, and build epic LEGO creations alongside master builders. Come safely play where everything is AWESOME! Adults must be accompanied by at least one child, 17 and under, to visit. See display ad on pg. 4.

LegolandDiscoveryCenter.com/kansas-city Continued on page 59

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Materials needed:

love bug candy treats

W

hat better way to make Valentine’s Day just a bit more special than to craft some little love bugs for your family and friends?

Mix and match the colors you pick. When selecting the candy, make sure to choose the “fun size” treats with enough space in the individual bags to push the candies to each side of the bag and avoid smashing the pieces!

• Assorted paints • Paintbrush • “Fun size” candy • Googly eyes or markers • Clothespins • Pipe cleaners

Step one: Paint clothespins and let dry completely.

Step two: Hook candy inside of clothespins as wings. You will need to adjust the candy in the bag to avoid smashing the treat.

Step three: Add in pipe cleaners as the bug antennas inside the clothes pin at the top.

Step four: Curl or cut the pipe cleaners around the end of the paintbrush to achieve the desired look.

Step five: Attach googly eyes (or use a marker) and you’re all done!

Janelle Cumro-Sultzer lives in Overland Park with her husband, son and two dogs. Janelle is a former health care executive director and is a mediator in Kansas, helping families in conflict. Janelle loves to focus on learning through play and getting messy with crafts.

Heart Name Puzzle

String Heart Valentines

Popsicle Stick Hearts

For TONS more great craft projects, log onto KCParent.com! kcparent.com february 2021

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WINTERFUNGUIDE

beating the winter blues How to keep the kids (and yourself) from going stir crazy during the winter months

W

hen it’s nice outside and the kids start getting a little rambunctious, the easy solution is to send them outdoors to run and play. Yet on very cold or snowy days, finding ways for them to exert energy and arrange entertainment can be a challenge. How do you maintain your sanity and keep the kids from bouncing off the walls when you are all stuck indoors?

Here are a few ideas to help make the most of your time indoors:

Cook and create together.

Develop a list of recipes to try with your kids and reserve them for a cold day. Cooking together can be a great opportunity to teach your children skills in the kitchen while keeping them entertained at the same time.

Similarly, look up different ideas for art projects or perhaps even some good indoor science experiments you can do together.

Keep all supplies on hand and ready to go when needed.

Build indoor forts.

Rachel Talkington, a Lee’s Summit mom of three, purchased two construction fort sets from the Discovery Kids brand. These products allow one to build a wide variety of

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structures and are something she says keeps her kids entertained all day.

She says sometimes her kids pretend their forts are a grocery store or a drivethrough restaurant. Talkington only brings the fort sets out on days when a special indoor activity is needed, so the fun remains something to relish. The family now has neighbor kids wanting to come over and play with the sets.

Of course, old-fashioned forts with sheets and blankets draped over furniture are always sure to provide long hours of entertainment.

Bring bikes, roller skates and other similar outdoor toys inside to the garage or unfinished basement.

Kids may not have as much room to enjoy these activities in more restricted spaces, but on a cold day, they still can burn off some energy with these toys.

Have bins of toys and activities you bring out only on cold days.

Lee’s Summit mom Christina Larson created bins of activities to help entertain her son on cold, boring days. She included toy figures, animals and vehicles, as well as blocks, arts and craft supplies, sorting and

stacking items, playdough and magnets. She bought most of these items at a dollar store and sorted them into shoebox-sized plastic containers.

Create personal space for your kids.

Independence mom Kyndal Costello has taken into account her children’s unique personalities in providing ways for them to find entertainment inside.

Her son has autism, and his space is all about providing him with sensory input. They started with a personal-sized trampoline, and they now even have a swing for his room. The family currently has plans to loft his bed to give him more room to play below. They also have decided to build a rock wall up to his bed instead of using a ladder.

Costello’s daughter has a reading nook in a small space in their house. The cozy spot consists of a little decorated house in which she can sit, relax and read. Her personal space also includes chalkboards on the walls so she can write, draw and express creativity.

Allison Gibeson is a mom and freelance writer from Lee’s Summit.

a a a

WE <3 HEARTS

a a a

H

istorians believe the rapid heartbeats felt when one is excited, upset or in love led people to believe the heart was the seat of emotions. This belief took hold and carried on through poetry, books and art. The image of cupids shooting arrows through a heart shape became a symbol of Valentine’s Day, as it still is today.

Snap a photo with a neon heart in Downtown Lee’s Summit at Third & Douglas. The vintage heart is one of the signatures of the quaint downtown district, standing in honor of Dale Hartley, the original owner of Hartley’s Furniture, and a founding member of Downtown Lee’s Summit’s Main Street.

The beautiful red heart is a great place to snap a pic for Instagram when you visit the boutiques, restaurants and local businesses in the district.

Wear a heart. Charlie Hustle’s signature KC heart t-shirt has seen many design iterations over the years, but it remains a signature of a tried-and-true loyal Kansas Citian. Show your love for your community and your neighbors with the KC heart shirt.

Feast on heart-shaped pizza. Minsky’s (multiple locations: Minskys. com) has been serving gourmet pizza to Kansas City since 1976. The pizzeria commemorates Valentine’s Day with heart-shaped pizzas, a tasty and memorable meal the family will love.

Charlie Hustle’s signature KC heart t-shirt

Where fun

TAKES FLIGHT! With attractions that cater to any level of adventurer, there’s something fun for everyone.

Both locations now open

UrbanAirLenexa.com

8554 Maurer Road • Lenexa, KS 66219 • (913) 359-5800

UrbanAirOverlandPark.com

14401 Metcalf Ave • Overland Park, KS 66223 • (913) 298-0626

kcparent.com february 2021

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WINTERFUNGUIDE

Share theLove!

28 WAYS FOR PARENTS TO SHOW KIDS THE LOVE THIS VALENTINE’S DAY SEASON

V

alentine’s Day gifts are nice, and maybe gifts are your love language. But remember, to celebrate this holiday you don’t have to buy your kids’ or your spouse’s love. You can show your affection for them in other ways. Think presence, not presents— and why not do that for the entire month of February? We’ve come up with 28 ways to show your family the love this season—in all love languages.

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5

2

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3

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Make heart-shaped pancakes one morning before school and deliver them to your kiddos while they’re still in bed. Add whipped cream and top them with red and pink sprinkles. Or make them together on a lazy Saturday while listening to some upbeat tunes in the kitchen.

Decorate your kids’ (and your spouse’s) paper lunch bag with hearts and doodles or include a special message inside. Lately, I’ve been drawing cheesy pictures on my son’s lunch bags.

If you own an Amazon Alexa or Echo Dot, you might try this idea (if not, just skip to the next day’s suggestion). Set your children’s alarm to play “I Love You, a Bushel and a Peck” or “Skidamarink (I love you)” when they wake up in the morning.

4

Write your kiddos a note on the bathroom mirror. You can do this for your spouse, too. Say something as simple as, “I love you. Have a great day today!” You even can go so far as to list 10 things you love about each one of them (depending on how old they are and whether they can read yet, of course). For your preschooler or kindergartener, draw a picture of the two of you with hearts and smiley faces.

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Plan to make a special stop after school pickup. Run through the Starbucks drive-through for a cake pop. Stop by the park to spend some quality one-on-one time with your kiddo. Whatever you do, make it something out of the ordinary to make your youngster feel extra loved.

Eat dessert before dinner. If this is out of the ordinary for your family, your kids will probably love this idea and feel like it’s a special occasion. Let them choose ice cream, cake, pie, cookies, whatever their favorite is.

Tune in and listen attentively. This seems simple, but to kids it means a lot. Some days it’s hard to truly sit and engage with your children, giving them your absolute undivided attention. Carve out a chunk of time to listen to everything your children want to tell you—listen to all of their stories. No phone, no distractions. Make eye contact. Maybe include snacks. Answer every question they have, and when they get excited about a particular thought, tell them, “Wow, that’s really cool!”

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Play a game of their choice. Board games, hide-and-seek, I Spy—or even have a tea party.

9

Let kids stay up late. Make hot chocolate or popcorn and chat at the kitchen counter.

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Tell them an extra bedtime story. We all have a tendency to rush through bedtime routines, but use this time to pause for once and be in the moment.

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Cook their favorite meal, even if it’s mini corn dogs and french fries.

Let kids co-sleep with you for a night. Your kiddo may enjoy the extra quality time snuggled up in your bed watching movies, reading a book or listening to Mom and Dad tell a fun story.

13 14

Complete a puzzle together.

Give them extra hugs—not just before bed or before dropping them off, but during random times of the day.

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Create a scavenger hunt with a fun prize at the end, like a box of chocolates or cookies and a thoughtful card listing all the ways you admire each of them.

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Write poems for them to tuck into their lunch boxes or serve with breakfast in bed in the morning. They can be sweet, silly, serious or somewhere in between.

17

Plan a surprise picnic with heartshaped sandwiches, cheese, cookies, strawberries, apples, cherries and any other red or pink foods you can think of. Sit in the backyard or at the park.

18

Take something off their plates.

Maybe you have a child whose love language is “acts of service.” Think of a chore or two he hates doing, and just do it for him.

If he hasn’t gotten around to cleaning his messy room, go ahead and tidy up before he gets home from school, for example.

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Frame their drawings or special crafts from school. Hang the item on the wall or place it somewhere the artist will immediately notice it and feel proud and validated.

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Stock up on all of their favorite snacks. Stop by the store one day and just grab all the things your kids love. Let them open the pantry and find their favorite treats.

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Make them laugh. Parents can’t always be in a good mood, but be extra intentional this day about your interactions with each other. Try to maintain an extra cheerful demeanor, cracking more jokes than usual or finding silly topics to chat about.

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Pick a cute outfit and shoes (if you don’t do this already) and have it lying out when your child wakes up in the morning.

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Sing all of your kids’ favorite songs with them in the car on the way to

school.

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Let them help you cook dinner, even if the kitchen gets extra messy.

If you’re super vigilant about a clean house, let kids play with the messiest toys you don’t usually allow—slime, kinetic sand, Play-Doh, anything they tend to immediately make messes with. Your house might not look spotless for a bit and it might require major cleanup, but your kids’ happiness will be worth it for that moment.

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Tell them something you’re really proud of them for on the way to

school.

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Stop by the park and feed the ducks instead of running your typical errands (like going to the grocery store, if that can wait for another day).

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Fill their rooms with balloons after they fall asleep and write one thing you love about them on each (or every other) one.

Emily Morrison is a freelance writer, former copy editor, full-time mommy and Disney fanatic that lives in Independence with her husband, 5-year old son and dog. kcparent.com february 2021

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WINTERFUNGUIDE

10 FAMILY-FRIENDLY FILMS WITH IRRESISTIBLE LOVE STORIES Snuggle Up with a Love-Themed Family Film This Winter Lady and the Tramp Disney’s 1955 classic has been winning the hearts for generations.

Dish up some spaghetti and delight in the Victorian-era tale about two charming dogs.

Cinderella We’re partial to Disney’s original animated masterpiece. The transformation of the dress is one of the prettiest pieces of animation ever created, and Jaq and Gus are delightful.

Be My Valentine, Charlie Brown Charles Schulz’ Peanuts films are holiday staples. This lesser-known classic is sure to tug at your heartstrings this February.

The Princess Bride This epic comic adventure you remember from your childhood is a perfect film to share with your own kids. Remember to recount the tale of your “mawwage” as you do.

Enchanted This Disney musical isn’t afraid to laugh at the most iconic heroines from beloved classic fairy tales. Amy Adams’ portrayal of Giselle, the loveable fairy-tale princess who magically lands in New York City, is charming.

Disney Nature’s Bears: The story of the Alaskan brown bear Sky and her unwavering love for her cubs is a beautiful depiction of parental love that is truly perfect for the whole family.

Beauty and the Beast Whether you choose Disney’s animated ’90s classic or the new live action version, this “tale as old as time” is perfect for a family movie night. Serve some gray stuff (it’s delicious) and enjoy this favorite film. Tip: You’ll find the recipe at Family.Disney.com/recipe/ beauty-and-the-beast-food-grey-stuff.

The Sound of Music Rodgers and Hammerstein’s classic musical is a tale of family love, courage and strength that inspires us still today.

Winnie the Pooh, a Valentine for You Winnie holds a special place in our family memories. The delightful bear and his pals from the Hundred Acre Wood learn what love really is all about.

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Parent Trap We enjoy both the Hayley Mills and the Lindsay Lohan versions of this comedic story of identical twins helping their parents rekindle a love that is lost. In the process, the two sisters who started as enemies become best friends.

NOW OPEN!

Conversation Starters Looking to get more than a shrug or “not much” from your child? Rather than asking, “how was your day?” or “what did you do today?” try one of the questions below to get the conversation started.

1. What was the best part of your day?

The worst?

2. If you could have a meal with anyone, who would it be and why?

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3. What are your favorite things we do as a family? What’s a new tradition you think we should try?

4. Who is your best friend and why?

5. What is your earliest memory?

Funniest? Saddest?

6. What does your perfect day look like?

7. If you had a million dollars, how would you spend it?

8. What do you think are the most interesting things about you?

9. What traits do you see in other people that you admire?

10. If we could go anywhere on vacation, where would it be?

11. What are you most afraid of?

12. What is your most embarrassing moment?

13. What do you want to be doing in 10 years?

14. What are you most proud of in your life? kcparent.com february 2021

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SOUP

WINTERFUNGUIDE

BABY, IT’S COLD OUTSIDE Once Mother said, “My little pet, you ought to learn your alphabet.” So in my soup I used to get all the letters of the alphabet. Then I learned them all, from A to Z, and now my mother’s giving me animal crackers in my soup. Okay, so maybe your kids already know the alphabet, but they still can benefit from an alphabet of vitamins and nutrients. Defy the chill air and let your kids go out to play all February long. After that, welcome them in and warm their growing bodies with these delicious, nutrient-rich, cozy-warm soups.

BUTTERNUT SQUASH SOUP INGREDIENTS: 1 t. olive oil 1 clove garlic (minced) 1/2 c. onion (chopped finely) 3 c. chicken broth 1 1/2 c. butternut squash (cubed) 2 t. salt 2 t. pepper 1 t. sage 1 t. thyme leaves

INSTRUCTIONS: • Sauté 1 teaspoon olive oil, 1 minced clove of garlic and 1/2 cup chopped onion in large stockpot over medium heat for a few minutes.

• Add a pinch of salt, pepper and sage to 3 cups of chicken broth.

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• Add in 1 1/2 c. of cubed butternut squash and bring to a boil.

• Cover, reduce heat and simmer until squash has a tender consistency (about 20 minutes).

• Garnish with black pepper and thyme.

BOUNTIFUL BODY BENEFITS: Beta-Carotene & Vitamin A. The butternut squash in this recipe meets close to half the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for beta-carotene, which ultimately gets converted into vitamin A. This is great for your kiddo’s skin and hair health because the nutrient plays a vital role in the growth of bodily tissues. It also is needed for sebum production, which aides in moisture production. Can you say hallelujah, dry skin?

Fiber. Offering about 6 grams of filling fiber, just one cup of this soup meets about 25 percent of the RDA. Fiber helps your child stay full and satisfied during this chilly month.

CHUNKY TOMATO BEEF SOUP INGREDIENTS: 1 lb. ground sirloin 1 T. canola oil 1 onion, diced 1 carrot, diced 2 cloves garlic, minced 4 c. reduced-sodium beef broth 2 cans (14 oz. each) diced tomatoes, undrained 2 T. Worcestershire sauce 1/2 t. dried thyme 1 c. elbow macaroni 1/4 t. salt 1/4 t. ground black pepper 2 T. grated Parmesan

INSTRUCTIONS: • Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the sirloin and cook for 3 minutes or until no longer pink. Transfer to a bowl and set aside.

• Add the oil, onion and carrot to the pot. Cook for 4 minutes or until softened. Add the garlic and cook 30 seconds longer.

• Add the broth, tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, beef and thyme. Raise heat to high and bring soup to a boil. Add the pasta.

• Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 8 minutes or until the pasta is tender. Add the salt and pepper.

• Serve with Parmesan cheese.

This soup dish is a tried-and-true staple during the cold winter months in the Leawood household of Rebecca, a mother of five active and growing kids. “This dish is ideal for snow days when schools get canceled,” she says.

BOUNTIFUL BODY BENEFITS: Protein. With the sirloin beef being a complete protein, it helps keep aches and breaks away from your kid’s growing bones, muscles and tendons.

Energy. The elbow macaroni is a rich and nutritious complex carbohydrate that enhances your kiddos’ energy supply to keep them learning, exploring and playing.

SOUP

Overall, you and your kids can’t go wrong feasting on these tasty, simple and satisfying soups all February long!

Sources: The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, KidsHealth.org, National Institutes of Health

Amy Hundley is a registered dietitian nutritionist, licensed in both Kansas and Missouri, and a published freelance nutrition writer. She is currently practicing as a clinical RD and has been a resident of Olathe since early childhood. kcparent.com february 2021

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WINTERFUNGUIDE

F

Winter in the Woods

or many families, outdoor fun comes to a screeching halt in the winter months … with a few exceptions for sledding when flurries hit the metro. Science shows that fresh air, exercise and time spent in nature are always good for us—any time of year. This winter challenge your family to enjoy the great outdoors even when it’s a bit chilly. We enjoy nature walks any time of year, and these are a few of our favorite ways to experience nature in the winter.

BEFORE YOUR WINTER NATURE WALK Your time outdoors will be more fun if you’re prepared. Consider the amount of time you expect to spend outdoors and prepare accordingly. If you’re taking a 15- to 30-minute walk in the neighborhood, a water bottle and basic winter layers will do. If you’re planning a longer nature walk or hike, you might want to bring snacks and really layer up. Some of our preparation tips:

suggesting three to five things you should try to find on your walk. These can include animal prints, squirrels, birds, particular trees, pinecones, feathers, rocks, a creek, pond, nest and shapes in clouds. Let your kids brainstorm for other ideas.

Bundle Up: I purchase inexpensive packs of hand warmers at the local box store and keep them in my van for our winter adventures.

For longer walks, I have my kids wear layers, including cuddle duds (think modern long underwear under jeans) and their coats, hats and gloves. We always bring water bottles— remember sunglasses, too.

Pack a First Aid Kit: I keep a complete kit in my van and a small kit to take in a backpack with basic bandages and such. For tips on building a family first aid kit, visit RedCross. org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/ anatomy-of-a-first-aid-kit.html.

Make Trail Mix: My girls love a trail mix bag. I

WHERE TO GO

set out favorite ingredients and they make their own bag of goodies. Granola, mini pretzels, cereal, nuts, dried fruits, coconut, sesame seeds and even some sweet treats (limited) make a tasty snack to take along.

I am partial to trails near lakes, ponds and streams. I especially like wooded trails, and my youngest daughter loves trails covered in fallen leaves … the “sound is so satisfying,” she says.

Some of our favorites include:

Design Your Own Scavenger Hunt: Let each

Shawnee Mission Park (7900 Renner Rd.,

member of the family contribute to a hunt list

Shawnee, JCPRD.com/facilities/facility/details/

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kcparent.com february 2021

Shawnee-Mission-Park-14). The park features a 120-acre lake, mountain bike trails, hiking trails and paved nature trails. It is ideal for short walks or long hikes.

Blue Springs Lake (1500 NE Bowlin Rd., Blue Springs). This park is home to a 720-acre lake.

Their most scenic trails are the Lake Vista Trails (MakeYourDayHere.com/DocumentCenter/ View/946/Lake-Vista-Trail?), a 5-mile scenic loop around the lake with bridges, hills and woods.

Watkins Mill State Park (26600 Park Rd. N., Lawson, MO, MoStateParks.com/park/watkinsmill-state-park). The trail around the 100-acre lake is paved and ideal for walking or biking.

The park is also home to an antebellum historic home and woolen mill you may tour.

Ernie Miller Nature Center (909 North, KS-7, Olathe, JCPRD.com/328/Ernie-Miller-ParkNature-Center). Visits to the nature center are always fun for children who enjoy seeing the animals and exploring the hands-on exhibits.

There are numerous trails to enjoy around the nature center, through the woods and near the creek. You can easily choose shorter or longer routes according to your time.

Cave Spring Nature Center (8701 E. Gregory Blvd., Raytown, CaveSpring.org). The trails around the 39-acre park are known for the

cave, the old hedge trees and the ruins of old pioneer shelters where you’ll find multiple chimneys, the only surviving landmarks of former homes.

ON THE HIKE Turn your outing into a memorable experience by adding a little fun.

Participate in the scavenger hunt you planned ahead of time. n Take

photographs along the way.

n Bring

nature journals and record your findings. The Nature Journal for Little Explorers by the Monkey & Bean Book Company, Backpack Explorer: On the Nature Trail: What Will You Find? by Storey Publishing, and Interactive Hiking Journal for Kids: Hiking Games, Scavenger Hunts, Sketch Spots and More for Nature Exploration by Stacey Bressler are three of my favorites. You may also bring blank notebooks and pencils. n Letterbox. Letterboxing, not

to be confused with geocaching (though undeniably similar), is a super-fun, free hobby for all ages. You can find letterboxing hobbyists online offering simple tutorials and tips. Visit a website like AtlasQuest.com to find clues to the nearest letterbox in your neighborhood or out on your adventures. Once you find the location,

search for the actual letterbox (often a small tin containing a stamp and a log book).

You will use the stamp to mark your own personal logbook, and then you stamp the book in the box (you may use a homemade stamp, a purchased stamp or a thumbprint).

When you start exploring the hobby, you’ll find fun in the creation or selection of your own signature stamp and logbook and the adventure of discovering new places. Metro area adventurist Alexis Webb Bechtold has localized letterboxing for Kansas Citians with a hometown hunt. Her series, the Curiosity Passport KC, is all about inspiration and discovery, leading explorers to 24 artistic, off-the-beaten-path sites in the area where you’ll discover many hidden gems. Visit CuriosityPassport.com for all the information you need to begin your adventure.

AFTER YOUR TRIP Good hikers know you should leave only footprints and take only photographs. These are some fun nature-friendly ways to capture the memories of your time in the great outdoors: n Make

hikes.

a scrapbook with memories of your

n Create a story of your adventures. When my girls were little, we loved glamping at a campground with cabooses every autumn; now we visit a favorite state park every fall. The caboose campground was home to a scarecrow in a fake jail setting. The girls concocted stories that he was the “Marshmallow Man” known for stealing marshmallows from campers. At Echo Bluff, our new annual tradition, there is a herd of wild mustangs. The girls tell stories of the horses, giving them names and legends. We do the same on many of our local hikes. When you discover the ruins of an old cabin, or footprints, or other clues in the woods of what may have happened before, use these discoveries to create stories together.

I hope your family enjoys making memories together in the great outdoors this winter!

Visit KCParent.com for more ideas and chat with us on Facebook at facebook.com/ KansasCityParent. We’d love to see your family hiking photos and your ideas for fun in the outdoors this winter!

Kristina Light loves taking her girls on long walks to see beautiful sites… and they like it too (even if some might claim they wish some of the walks were shorter). kcparent.com february 2021

57

WINTERFUNGUIDE

birthday party life lessons

a

birthday party may look like just a birthday party to you now, but what I see is a breeding ground for life lessons kids can learn that will carry them through their lives to help make them successful, happy and kind. Read on to check out a few teaching opportunities for your child’s next birthday party!

Graciousness and Disappointment I’m lumping these two together because they seem to go hand in hand. The birthday child gets disappointed by not getting something she really wanted or sometimes not getting anything she really wanted at all during the entire party. That’s when it’s time to step in and talk about how disappointment is okay, but that we should be gracious about it. It’s kind of like being a sore loser versus being a happy loser. Even though there is disappointment going on, you want your child to learn how to say thank you and show appreciation for the gift giver’s time and money or skills that went into the gift.

Consideration Yes, it’s your child’s party, but consider where everyone would have a good time when planning your party venue. If it’s at your house, think up some fun games everyone might enjoy and build in plenty of time for just playing around. Have a friend with food allergies, such as gluten or dairy? Make sure to pick up something special for that friend—cookies or his own piece of cake--it’s easier than ever these days.

Sharing Your kid may get some pretty good stash at his birthday party, and other kids are certainly going to want to play with the new goods.

Explain to your child before the party that she is going to be getting some cool new stuff and that she can put some of her favorite things up right away but that she should share some of the things and play with them with her friends and not hide them all away.

Giving Back and Donating This year, consider having your child ask for gifts for someone else. In my town, our local food bank supplies a birthday cake and all the fixings as long as the guests bring canned goods, take the tour and help out for a bit. Also, if your child has a particular love for, say, animals … how about hosting a birthday party for or at a local animal shelter? Instead of presents ask guests to bring donations like pet food and other supplies.

Instead of lecturing, which we all know gets tuned out anyway, get your party on with some cool hidden lessons that will take your kids beyond their kid years and into a fun and full life!

Kerrie McLoughlin lives in Peculiar, MO, and puts on five chaotic birthday parties per year for her kids and lives to tell about it at TheKerrieShow.com.

DID YOU KNOW? Children’s Mercy makes it easy to host a party that gives back!

Check it out at Give.ChildrensMercy.org.

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kcparent.com february 2021

Winter Fun Write-Ups Continued from page 46

Mid-Continent Public Libraries

Cinderella, Jasmine and Snow White.

every Monday, Thursday & Friday to help

Whether your goal this year is to find

Also, inquire about our new Super Girl,

‘Stop the Marine Mayhem’ around every

your zen, get your resume updated or

Wonder Woman, Batman and Spider-

corner. Open 7-days a week! See display

save money on ebooks, eAudiobooks,

Man parties! Watch the magic unfold

ad on pg. 4. VisitSeaLife.com/kansas-city

and digital magazines, Mid-Continent

as the children go on an adventure

Public Library has what you need. Learn

that includes a story, games, music,

Urban Air

how to take control of your finances,

a makeover or face painting and a

Looking for the best year-round fun?

trace your family history, join in on

treasure hunt. See display ad on pg. 59.

With new adventures behind every

family-friendly virtual programs, or

816.830.4841. PrincessAtMyParty.com

corner, Urban Air Adventure Park is

get online tutoring for the kids - it’s

the ultimate indoor playground. Take

all free with your Library card. Make a

Sea Life Aquarium

birthdays to the next level or spend a

resolution to visit MyMCPL.org today!

Voyage into jaw-dropping underwater

day of fun with the family and you’ll

See display ad on pg. 62.

worlds at SEA LIFE, Kansas City’s only

see why we’re more than just a

aquarium! Escape into a 180-degree

trampoline park. Let the kids fly

Princess at My Party

ocean tunnel, come face to fin with

through the park on our sky rider, take

Have your child’s favorite character

sharks and rescued sea turtles, touch

on our climbing walls, or reach new

come to the birthday party! Choose

a sticky anemone, and explore over 12

heights on our trampolines. Urban Air.

from Elsa, Anna, Rapunzel, Moana,

breathtaking exhibits. Starting January

Let ‘em fly. See display ad on pg. 49.

Elena, Ariel, Belle, Sleeping Beauty,

25th, PJ Masks are diving into SEA LIFE

UrbanAirTrampolinePark.com

visit the virtual

P rincess at my Party

party guide at KCParent.com

THURSDAY TODDLER TIME PRESENTS

ON THURSDAYS FROM 10-2, TODDLERS (5 AND UNDER) GET TO PAINT ONE OF OUR SELECTED ITEMS FOR

Have your favorite princess at your party!

Parties Include: Story Games Facepaint Music Prizes & More

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for your guide to throwing an unforgettable party in kc!

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www.princessatmyparty.com kcparent.com february 2021

59

february

FOR EVEN

MORE EVENTS, HEAD TO THE ONLINE CALENDAR AT KCPARENT.COM

CALENDAR

PJ Masks at Sea Life Aquarium

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

Please call to verify event details.

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kcparent.com february 2021

enjoy

meet

listen

learn

explore

On Feb 2 enjoy Discover Nature: Naturalist Hour at Burr Oak Woods Nature Center. Go on an adventure with a naturalist to make amazing discoveries as you explore.

Pre-reg at MDC.mo.gov/events.

See the PJ Masks at Sea Life Aquarium.

Enjoy PJ Masks seathemed trails and activities, meet and greet on select days and much more!

VisitSeaLife.com/ kansascity

Visit Ernie Miller Nature Center on Feb 17 for Animal Tales Story Time.

Join a park naturalist for animal stories and surprises geared for preschool age children. Pre-reg at 913.826.2800.

Head to Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop and Farm on Feb 20 for a Maple Sugaring Workshop. Learn how to tap trees and how to process sap into syrup.

Pre-reg at Mahaffie.org.

On Feb 26 visit the Overland Park Arboretum for Night at the Arboretum. Come roam the trails with your flashlight and look at the stars after dark.

ArtsAndRec-op.org/ arboretum

We encourage readers to call ahead or verify online before heading out to events. There may be changes due to weather or government regulations. Most events require advance reservations.

1 Monday Round-Up Enrollment 3:30, Whitefield Academy. Learn why families choose to educate their children at KC’s top-rated Christian school.

Pre-reg at WhitefieldAcademyKC.org.

Discovery Kits 9:00, Overland Park Arboretum.

Visit the arboretum and pick up a monthly kit for your family to enjoy and be creative.

ArtsAndRec-op.org/arboretum The Snowy Day and Other Stories Thru Feb 28, streaming. The Coterie presents Mesner Puppets’ production of The Snowy Day and Other Stories. TheCoterie.org

2 Tuesday Jumperoo 9:00, Urban Air. A special time when entire park is open for children 5 and under with a parent. Jump, bounce and crawl!

UrbanAirTrampolinePark.com PJ Masks Thru Feb, Sea Life Aquarium. Enjoy PJ Masks sea-themed trails and activities, meet and greet on select days and much more!

VisitSeaLife.com/kansascity

Outdoor Ice-Skating 10:00, Crown Center Ice Terrace. Kansas City’s original outdoor ice-skating rink, the Crown Center Ice Terrace is celebrating its 48th season. Pre-reg at CrownCenter.com.

Discover Nature: Naturalist Hour 2:00, Burr Oak Woods Nature Center. Go on an adventure with a naturalist to make amazing discoveries as you explore. Pre-reg at MDC.mo.gov/events.

3 Wednesday Mom & Me Bumper Bowling 9:30, Summit Lanes. For just $3 per person, enjoy a game, shoe rental and drink. SummitLanes.com/specials All School Virtual Open House 11:00, the Barstow School. Meet faculty, learn about academic, artistic and athletic offerings and much more! Pre-reg at BarstowSchool.org.

Disney on Ice: Dream Big Thru Feb 7, T-Mobile Center. Share magical moments filled with breathtaking ice-skating and beloved Disney stories! DisneyOnIce.com/tickets

4 Thursday Little Critters Day Out 9:00, Ernie Miller Nature Center. Enjoy a snack, make a craft, play games and meet and animal visitor. Ages 3-5. Pre-reg at 913.826.2807.

5 Friday Scout Night! 6:00, Johnson County Museum.

Groups will encounter a hands-on look at history, community and creativity. Receive a KidScape patch. Pre-reg at 913.715.2570.

Among Us: A Murder Mystery Game 6:00, Gladstone Community Center. Join groups of 10 for an online, private game to figure out who the imposter is. Ages 7+. Pre-reg at Gladstone.

MO.US.

6 Saturday Winning the Call-Back 10:00, Leawood Community Center. Learn tips and techniques to help you feel comfortable and confident in the call-back process. Pre-reg at LeawoodStageCO.org.

Now Enrolling for Fall 2021 Pre-Kindergarten through 12th Grade • Kansas City’s Top-Performing Christian School • Christ-Centered Classical Curriculum • Small Class Sizes

Whitefield Academy is the premier Classical Christian School in the KC metro!

To learn more or to schedule a tour, please visit us at: www.whitefieldacademykc.org Contact our Admission Office at: 816-444-3567 or bjwilliams@whitefieldacademy.org

“Not only is the education superior, but the Whitefield community of teachers, parents, students, and school leadership has enriched our lives in so many ways. This school is a true gem!”

– Parent of three Whitefield students

kcparent.com february 2021

61

Valentine’s Day Pop-up Market Noon, Kansas City Design Collective. Shop local artists and makers for Valentine’s Day gifts, and enjoy food trucks. KansasCityDesignCollective.com Daddy Daughter Dance 6:00, Vesper Hall (Blue Springs). Event includes a catered dinner, dessert, dancing, photo booth pictures and raffle prizes! Pre-reg at BlueSpringsGov.com.

Daddy Daughter Under the Sea Swim Party 6:30, Merriam Community Center. Channel your inner mermaid and join us for a fun evening of swimming. Pre-reg at 913.322.5550.

7 Sunday Sunday Family Series 1:00, Ernie Miller Nature Center. Enjoy programs presented by park naturalists, park police officers and volunteers.

Pre-reg at 913.826.2800.

8 Monday Mom & Me Bumper Bowling 9:30, Summit Lanes. For just $3 per person, you get a game, shoe rental and drink on Mondays and Wednesdays. SummitLanes.com

Polar Bear Passage 10:00, Kansas City Zoo. Visit Nuniq, the zoo’s newest polar bear at home in the Polar Bear Passage. Reserve a time online and plan a visit with the family.

KansasCityZoo.org

9 Tuesday Jumperoo 9:00, Urban Air. A special time when entire park is open for children 5 and under with a parent. Jump, bounce and crawl!

UrbanAirTrampolinePark.com Happy National Pizza Day 10:00, MCPL virtual.

Join Mr Stinky Feet for songs celebrating pizza, cookies, pickles and much more! Pre-reg at MyMCPL.org.

Discover Nature: Naturalist Hour 2:00, Burr Oak Woods Nature Center. Go on an adventure with a naturalist to make amazing discoveries as you explore. Pre-reg at MDC.mo.gov/events.

10 Wednesday Outdoor Ice-Skating 10:00, Crown Center Ice Terrace. Kansas City’s original outdoor ice-skating rink, the Crown Center Ice Terrace is celebrating its 48th season. Pre-reg at CrownCenter.com.

�,

PJ Masks Thru Feb, Sea Life Aquarium. Enjoy PJ Masks sea-themed trails and activities, meet and greet on select days and much more!

VisitSeaLife.com/kansascity

11 Thursday Toddler Time 10:00, Ceramic Café. On Thursdays from 10:00 to 2:00, toddlers 5 and under can paint one selected item for just $10!

CeramicCafeKC.com The Snowy Day and Other Stories Thru Feb 28, streaming. The Coterie presents Mesner Puppets’ production of The Snowy Day and Other Stories. TheCoterie.org

12 Friday Family Field Trip Days Daily, Johnson County Museum. Families will get a tour from a museum educator, participate in activities and play in KidScape. Pre-reg at 913.715.2570.

Sweetheart Bingo 1:30, Shawnee Town 1929.

B-I-N-G-O! Prepackaged refreshments served with 10 games of bingo. Everyone loves to play!

Pre-reg at ShawneeTown.org.

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13 Saturday

15 Monday

Sweetheart Run 9:00, Fiorella’s. A great chance to get out and run with your loved one!

Children’s fun run participants receive a kids medal. KCSweetheartRun.com

PRESIDENTS DAY

Kids Club 10:00, Colonial Gardens. Kids Club will teach kids how to plant and maintain herbs and ways to preserve them. Learn recipes and take home a plant. ColonialGardensKC.com Relax and Restore Yoga Noon, Lenexa Community Center. Enjoy a vinyasa yoga flow into restorative poses. Ages 16+. No registration, but space is limited. 913.477.7529

14 Sunday Valentine’s Day Early Explorers 9:30, Science City. Bring the younger set to visit the new Early Explorations areas designed for babies and toddlers. Pre-reg at ScienceCity.com.

Visit Incredible Pizza 11:00, Incredible Pizza.

Bring the family to enjoy the buffet along with indoor rides and lots of games! Visit KCParent. com for a coupon! IncrediblePizza.com

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Mom & Me Bumper Bowling 9:30, Summit Lanes. For just $3 per person, you get a game, shoe rental and drink on Mondays and Wednesdays. SummitLanes.com Polar Bear Passage 10:00, Kansas City Zoo. Visit Nuniq, the zoo’s newest polar bear at home in the Polar Bear Passage. Reserve a time online and plan a visit with the family. KansasCityZoo.org

16 Tuesday Tots on Tuesday 10:30, streaming. Sing songs, read books, explore art and make your own art with a Kemper Museum educator. Pre-reg at KemperArt.org.

Discover Nature: Naturalist Hour 2:00, Burr Oak Woods Nature Center. Go on an adventure with a naturalist to make amazing discoveries as you explore. Pre-reg at MDC.mo.gov/events.

17 Wednesday Discovery Kits 9:00, Overland Park Arboretum.

Visit the arboretum and pick up a monthly kit for your family to enjoy and be creative. Available at ticket kiosk. ArtsAndRec-op.org/arboretum

Animal Tales Story Time 10:30, Ernie Miller Nature Center. For ages 2-6. Join a park naturalist for animal stories and surprises geared for preschool age children. Pre-reg at 913.826.2800.

18 Thursday Early Education Preview Today & tomorrow, Summit Christian Academy. Tour campus, visit classrooms and attend a Q&A session. Pre-reg at 816.525.1480.

Toddler Time 10:00, Ceramic Café. On Thursdays from 10:00 to 2:00, toddlers 5 and under can paint one selected item for just $10!

CeramicCafeKC.com

19 Friday Bridging the Gender Divide 10:00, National Museum of Toys and Miniatures. Exhibit explores how toys once marketed to boys have evolved over time to encourage all children.

816.235.8000 RV and Outdoor Show Thru Sunday, Overland Park Convention Center. Featuring the very latest makes and models of recreational vehicles from top manufacturers. OPRVShow.com

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20 Saturday

23 Tuesday

Maple Sugaring Workshop 9:30, Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop and Farm. Learn how to tap trees and how to process sap into syrup. Pre-reg at Mahaffie.org.

Jumperoo 9:00, Urban Air. A special time when entire park is open for children 5 and under with a parent. Jump, bounce and crawl!

UrbanAirTrampolinePark.com

Fairy Tale Ball 10:00 or 1:30, Overland Park Convention Center. Event includes princess portraits for every child, crafts, stories, songs, games and more. PrettyPrincessPartiesMN.com

Discover Nature: Naturalist Hour 2:00, Burr Oak Woods Nature Center. Go on an adventure with a naturalist to make amazing discoveries as you explore. Pre-reg at MDC.mo.gov/events.

21 Sunday

24 Wednesday

Grow a Reader Virtual Story Time 10:00, MCPL360. Join library staff for story times for your littles—and maybe for you too! We will have stories and songs. Facebook.com/mcpl360

PJ Masks Thru Feb, Sea Life Aquarium. Enjoy PJ Masks sea-themed trails and activities, meet and greet on select days and much more!

VisitSeaLife.com/kansascity

22 Monday

Fire and Ice 4:00, MCPL Virtual. Program explores exothermic chemical reactions and the wonders of dry ice, a crazy bubble shower and creepy, foggy effects. Pre-reg at MyMCPL.org.

Mom & Me Bumper Bowling 9:30, Summit Lanes. For just $3 per person, you get a game, shoe rental and drink on Mondays and Wednesdays. SummitLanes.com The Snowy Day and Other Stories Thru Feb 28, streaming. The Coterie presents Mesner Puppets’ production of The Snowy Day and Other Stories. TheCoterie.org

25 Thursday Toddler Time 10:00, Ceramic Café. On Thursdays from 10:00 to 2:00, toddlers 5 and under can paint one selected item for just $10!

CeramicCafeKC.com

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kcparent.com february 2021

Outdoor Ice-Skating 10:00, Crown Center Ice Terrace. Kansas City’s original outdoor ice-skating rink, the Crown Center Ice Terrace is celebrating its 48th season. Pre-reg at CrownCenter.com.

26 Friday Polar Bear Passage 10:00, Kansas City Zoo. Visit Nuniq, the zoo’s newest polar bear at home in the Polar Bear Passage. Reserve a time online and plan a visit with the family.

KansasCityZoo.org Night at the Arboretum 7:00, Overland Park Arboretum. Come roam the trails with your flashlight and look at the stars after dark.

ArtsAndRec-op.org/arboretum

27 Saturday Create a Critter 10:00, Vesper Hall (Blue Springs). Adults and children of all ages will make their very own stuffed animal. Pre-reg at BlueSpringsGov.com.

28 Sunday Grow a Reader Virtual Story Time 10:00, MCPL360. Join library staff for story times for your littles (and maybe for you too)! We will have stories and songs. Facebook.com/mcpl360

take note: february ’21

Feb. 1: National Eat Ice Cream for Breakfast Day

Feb. 3: National Golden Retriever Day Show a

Betty Rae’s (locations

little love to your favorite

in Waldo and River

four-legged pals and follow

Market, BettyRaes. com) wins our heart with their generous scoops of homemade ice cream in a variety

Great Plains SPCA on

Feb. 22: George Washington’s Birthday

Facebook to learn how

You’ll find a statue of the first U.S.

you can support one of our

president in Washington Square

city’s largest no-kill shelters.

Park (Pershing Road & Grand)

of gourmet flavors.

Feb. 7: National Send a Card to a Friend Day We all

Their made-from-

have friends we would have enjoyed spending more time

scratch ice cream

with over the past year. Take some time to make a card, write

sandwiches are to-

a letter or even send a quick note to let them know you care.

die-for too!

Feb. 9: National Pizza Day Order from your favorite local pizzeria and enjoy a no-cook family night! Our top picks locally include Minsky’s, Waldo Pizza, d’Bronx, Papa Murphy’s and Papa Kenos.

near Crown Center. The 16-foottall, 11,000-pound statue depicts Gen. George Washington astride his horse at Valley Forge during the American Revolution.

Feb. 25: National Pancake Day Ginger Sue’s (GingerSues.com) offers a wide variety of breakfast items, with some of the biggest

Feb. 12: Abraham Lincoln’s Birthday You’ll find a statue

and tastiest pancakes!

of the 16th U.S. president on the south plaza of the Kansas

Feb. 2: Groundhog Day Follow Kansas

City, MO, City Hall. The 10-foot-tall, 2,500-pound statue shows

City Zoo on Facebook

at his son Tad.

for their live update as Tater, their African pygmy hedgehog fills in as KC’s resident groundhog

President Lincoln sitting in a chair holding a book and gazing

Feb. 17: Random Acts of Kindness Day Brainstorm as a family and to think of ways you can show random acts of kindness to your neighbors and friends this winter. See how much it brightens your day to share kindness with others.

representative to predict whether we’ll have an early spring.

NEED COPY

Feb. 20: National Muffin Day Heirloom Bakery & Hearth in Brookside is known for made-from-scratch baked goods created using locally sourced ingredients. They sell a variety of delicious muffins, including some that are gluten free.

kcparent.com february 2021

65

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Audi Shawnee Mission

The Audi Q5 Kelley Blue Bookâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Best Buy Four years running

SHAWNEE MISSION

2021 Audi Q5 Hybrid

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Audi Shawnee Mission 6601 E. Frontage Rd | Merriam, KS 66202 | 913-384-2834 | Audi-ShawneeMission.com