KC Parent Magazine March 2017 by KC Parent Magazine

FREE | March 2017 | KCParent.com | Since 1985

Y SUMMER DAY CAMPS Day camps offer adventures for kids ages 5 through 12. Our camps include: • A wide variety of experiences including field trips, swimming, arts and more!

IS YOUR TEEN LOOKING FOR A SUMMER EXPERIENCE? Teen/Tween Options:

• Specialty sports camps such as soccer, baseball and softball, flag football, track and field, and basketball.

• Adventure Camp offers outdoor challenges and activities for ages 12-15.

Locations throughout the Kansas City metro:

• Youth Volunteer Corps Summer of Service allows ages 11-18 to get hands-on experiences serving our community.

• School Districts — Blue Valley, Center, Olathe, Platte County, Shawnee Mission and Spring Hill. • Additional locations — North Kansas City YMCA and Camp Naish near Bonner Springs.

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

LOOKING FOR OPTIONS FOR YOUR PRESCHOOLER? Visit KansasCityYMCA.org/EarlyLearning for information about programs for ages 3-5.

KansasCityYMCA.org/Camp

Every pregnancy is unique. Shouldn’t your delivery be too?

Isn’t it time you have a say in your own birthing experience? Let us deliver your dream. Comfortable, spacious rooms, gourmet celebratory meals, spa tubs, and valet service — these are just a few of the amenities you can choose from to design a birthing experience unique for you and your baby. So while we focus on clinical excellence, you can focus on creating the memory of a lifetime. Learn more at hcamidwest.com/uniquedelivery.

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MARCH 2017

DEPARTMENTS 10 Media Mix 11 Faith & Family 12 Craft Corner 16 Healthy Kids 18-PAGE SUMMER CAMP GUIDE, PG. 18

49 Word from Dad

SPECIAL SECTIONS FEATURES

18 Camp Guide 46 Party Guide 52 Calendar of Events

Girls and Boys

NICU

Spring Break

The benefits of raising boys and girls

Supporting a family with a baby in the NICU

Two great destinations close to Kansas City FREE | March 2017 | KCParent.com | Since 1985

ON THE COVER Our cover features artwork created by John Hayes (Lenexa).

kcparent.com march 2017

How Do You Know if Your Child Really

Needs Braces – Or Will Just Grow Out of It?

When you need to take care of it – or can it wait? To go to a dentist or an orthodontist? Are all orthodontists the same? To get Invisalign® or a lower cost alternative? Who can you trust for advice?

BurlesonSmile.com Authoritative information for parents of children, pre-teens and teens is available, free, and at no obligation, including downloadable free reports, online video, and more. In this era of social media, social media shaming and bullying, shocking numbers of pre-teen and teen suicides, and hyper-emphasis on personal appearance, crooked and mis-placed teeth and a smile he or she is embarrassed about and humiliated by can be a serious issue. Further, there are lifelong health ramifications of neglected or postponed, necessary teeth straightening. This is much more than just ‘cosmetics’. But how can you feel confident about the decisions you make, for your daughter or son? Please let us provide the information that directly and clearly answers your questions. Visit BurlesonSmile.com BEFORE you visit any dental or orthodontic office. Burleson Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry is committed to the highest standards of care, beginning with having fully informed parents and patients. Our doctors have worked with the prestigious Disney Institute and Ritz Carlton Leadership Center to bring the same “wow” experience to the smiles of your son or daughter. See why over 15,000 Kansas City moms trust Burleson to help their children smile with confidence. Call (816) 759-0119 today to reserve your comprehensive smile assessment and ask about our exclusive offers for readers of KC Parent Magazine.

Visit our website today to find out more:

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EDITOR’SLETTER MARCH 2017

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

Bill Bartlett (Belton), Julie Collett (Overland Park), Allison Gibeson (Lee’s Summit), Lauren Greenlee (Olathe), Jessica Heine (Olathe), Christa Melnyk Hines (Olathe), Rebecca Ishum (Belton), Karen Johnson (Olathe), Megan Kapple (Kansas City), Gina Klein (Kansas City), Kristina Light (Kansas City), Laura Miller McEachen (Overland Park), Jena Meyerpeter (Lenexa)

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

baby& 15 &

KC B A

fall/winter 2016-17

MATERNI T Y YE A R S

Margaret Sarver, Editor

kansas city’s #1 travel guide since 2010

FREE | March 2017 | KCParent.com | Since 1985

2 00 2

maternity

JAN-MARCH 2017 | KCPARENT.COM

What Makes

Kc cOOL? 500+ WaYS

tO eXPerIeNce It

the

everything pregnancy issue

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

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G A Z I NE MA

Happy March and happy spring, Kansas City!

Publisher Michael Gimotty Michael@KCParent.com

.com

’m still surprised I have two children who LOVE to go away to summer camp. As a child, I was a homebody. I enjoyed the occasional sleepover but never wanted to be far away from home for very long. One summer, my mom sent my cousin, Mary, and me to Florida to visit a great aunt. We traveled by car with a family friend and spent several days in Florida, near the beach, without our parents—and I was miserable. I just wanted to get back home. My brothers and sisters were the same way. Another summer, my sister was sent to Girl Scout horseback riding camp. Sounds great, right? Wrong. We still have the letters she sent home, telling us how miserable she was and that she missed all of us so much, even Joe (the brother who tormented her). Kids can learn so many life lessons at camp, and I am glad that each summer my girls have the opportunity to attend. We are fortunate to have so many great options for camps right here in Kansas City. Some terrific overnight camps are not far from here, as well as tons of day camp options for those, like me, who prefer to sleep in their own beds. Our March Camp Guide is filled to the brim with camps for every interest and every age. In addition, check out our virtual Camp Guide at KCParent.com for photos, videos and more. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: I love when March rolls around. I feel like we are moving farther away from winter and closer to spring. And daylight saving time arrives! In addition, I celebrate my birthday in March. I’m always thankful for another year I’ve gotten to take around the sun and see it as a time to reflect. I love the saying, “Do not regret getting older, it is a privilege denied to many.”

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

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

kcparent.com march 2017

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Make an online reservation today at CentraCareKC.com. There’s never a good time to be sick or injured. That’s why when it comes to the health of your family, it’s important to have quick access to health care you can trust. Introducing Centra Care Shawnee Mission Urgent Care. Just walk in or make an online reservation at CentraCareKC.com to see a Board-certified, Centra Care doctor. Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m.-8 p.m. Sat. & Sun., 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

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kcparent.com 11/15/16 10:04 AM march 2017

MEDIAMIX

friendship fun new titles offer fun and valuable lessons for young readers By McGeath Freeman

Are We Still Friends?

The Secret Keepers

Play with Me!

By Ruth Horowitz

By Trenton Lee Stewart

Best for: Ages 4-8

Illustrated by Blanca Gomez

By Michelle Lee

Best for: Ages 10-13

Best for: Ages 4-8 Friendship has its ups and downs. Horowitz explores how a simple misunderstanding can turn into a big falling out between even the best of friends. Beatrice raises bees. Abel grows apples. They do everything together and love it. Then one spring, Abel gets stung by a bee and a misunderstanding leads to a fight. It’s not until another incident occurs that Beatrice and Abel discover how to make up and say they are sorry. Horowitz creates a believable friendship that helps children learn to overcome disagreements. She has fun entertaining readers with tame but creative insults and onomatopoeic words. The illustrations offer a nice complement to the text, creating a warm approachable world for Beatrice, Abel and young readers.

What’s good: Warm and inviting illustrations.

What would you do if you found a magic watch that made you invisible? All Reuben Pedley wants is a better life for himself and his mom. So when he finds a watch that gives him the power of invisibility, he thinks his dreams are about to come true. Then he realizes that with the watch come a lot of questions, a nefarious baddie who also wants it, new friends and a big, dangerous mystery. Like Stewart’s Benedict Society series, The Secret Keepers is full of twists, turns and magic.

What’s good: Interesting mystery that keeps you guessing.

What’s bad: The pacing is uneven, with the beginning being very slow.

Do you and your friends always enjoy the same stuff? Probably not. Michelle Lee explores how two friends with different ideas of playing come together in the end for a perfect playtime. Pip is a high-energy pig that likes to pretend, play tag and jump rope. Nico likes to play his cello. When Pip invites Nico to play, there is a little confusion about what to play, and Pip gets angry. Not to worry. Once Nico understands that Pip is not having fun, he comes up with the perfect way for them to play together. With an economy of words and simple watercolor illustrations, Lee creates two wonderful personalities and allows readers to invest quickly in the characters and their playtime.

What’s good: Expressive illustrations

What’s bad: The text could be a little

draw readers into the story.

long for some antsy young readers.

What’s bad: Not much.

kcparent.com march 2017

FAITH&FAMILY

FAMILY TALK

Da ily Fa it h e Ch a lle n g

A B O U T D R I N KI N G

Brand: Bud Item #:PCA20151142

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MUST INITIAL FOR APPROVAL

he morning toast hasn’t even popped up and time presses hard. When daily demands begin before the sun rises, how do we as parents integrate faith into the daily regimen of forward motion? How do we begin to show our kids that faith is a real and important daily experience in this whirlwind life? We do it by being intentional and finding ways to integrate it into our dailies. Hundreds of right ways exist to spend time with God, learning His words and ways; but there’s only way to do it wrong, and that’s to not do it at all. Here are a few practical ideas for bringing faith into your and your family’s routine. Write a Bible verse on a Post-It and stick it to your favorite coffee mug. Before the coffee is poured, read it and then move it onto tomorrow’s mug. Try sticking one on your kids’ cereal spoons and see their eyes light up at finding it each morning. Post-It notes work great on your teens’ phones at night too. It’ll likely be one of the first things they see the next day. A great starting place is Psalm 136:1: “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good. His love endures forever.” Bookend your days in prayer. What better way to fall asleep at night than talking to God? What better way to begin a new day than with the One whose “mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning” (Lamentations 3:22-23)? Parents, try bookend prayers for one week then share with your kids how it’s affecting and challenging your perspective. Your influence is powerful! Have you heard? Podcasts rule. They travel well via phones, bluetooth and computers, making them ideal for integrating faith topics into your dailies. Here are a few to check out: “The Happy Hour with Jamie Ivey,” “Mom Struggling Well” and “The Simple Show.” Click over to TheLifePodcast.org to check out my friend and former KC Parent writer Wendy Connelly’s new podcast show, “The Lift.” Her diverse guest list and captivating interviews get two thumbs up! Before tomorrow’s coffee brews, see what you can do to incorporate faith into your routines. Baby steps become miles too, so start where you are and remember the only way to do it wrong is not to do it at all. God always listens and His Word travels well, so give it one week and see the difference faith can make in the dailies. PM:

Closing Date: 8/10/16

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Pub: KC Parent

AD: CW:

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Faith & Family writer Jena Meyerpeter is mom to three daughters and wife to one amazing husband of 17 years.

“STAY CONNECTED.

TALK WITH YOUR TEEN ABOUT

UNDERAGE DRINKING.

-MJ CORCORAN CORC PARENT COACH COA O CH OA

Parents are the number one influence on teens’ decisions about drinking alcohol.* Learn how to be a positive influence in your child’s life.

kcparent.com march 2017

CRAFTCORNER

You probably have most of the items needed to make a wreath on hand, so grab the kids and go make one today!

Materials Needed:

• Paper plates • Cupcake liners • Glue

• Scissors • Tape • Ribbon

Step One: Cut a circle out of the center of the paper plate so that you have a wreath form. Tape the ends of the plate together if needed.

cupcake liner wreath Add some color to your day by making a rainbow wreath using cupcake liners! These wreaths are so pretty and easy to create. Kids can get creative by choosing the colors and patterns of their wreaths and even adding different elements such as jewels, feathers and ribbons to dress them up even more! You probably have most of the items needed to make a wreath on hand, so grab the kids and go make one today!

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

march2017 2017 12 march 12

kcparent.com kcparent.com

Step Two: Begin by folding a cupcake liner in half and placing it on the paper plate using glue.

Step Three: Layer another liner on top of the first one, using more glue. Keep adding cupcake liners until the entire paper plate is covered. Step Four: Once the glue is dry, add ribbon to hang and more embellishments if desired.

The starting point for a healthy smile. Starting Point Dental offers both pediatric dentistry and orthodontics in one location. Our dental services are provided by specialists who received additional training after dental school. By offering these specialties together, we can give busy families convenience and comprehensive care. Locations: Overland Park 14465 Metcalf Ave Overland Park KS 66223 913-553-2492

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

kcparent.com march 2017

a g sin

i a r

e v i t i t e p m o c d l i ch Acknowledge his feelings but help him put them in proportion. Of course it is okay to be disappointed with a setback, but this is not the end of the world.

he world is a competitive place, and we all want our children to do well. How do you find a balance between encouraging a little healthy competition and bringing up a child who will burn out or alienate others? My children compete with one another about almost everything (nothing with any importance whatsoever). They vie for who gets to open the door first, who can say a sentence faster, etc. I am constantly telling them, “It’s not a race; it’s not a contest.” The society in which we live loves winners. However, hyper-competitiveness has its drawbacks, such as stress, physical injury and isolation from peers. My daughter enjoys gymnastics. I wanted to see her improve. I enrolled her in a twohour, three-times-per-week competitive class expecting she would love this extra time in the gym. She did not. Many tears and a non-refundable deposit later, we pulled back to the once-a-week class. She is much happier and still loves gymnastics. I know that if I had required her to stay in the more intensive class, she would have resented me and no longer enjoyed the sport. Trust your instincts as a parent, and if winning at all costs results in a stressedout, mentally unhealthy kid, reevaluate the

kcparent.com march 2017

benefit. Most importantly, make sure your child is pursuing his or her own goals, not yours.

Tips for Keeping Competition in Perspective If your child is very competitive in sports or at school, find ways to spend time together at home that focus on non-competitive activities (i.e., maybe Monopoly isn’t the best board game choice for your family). Check out some of these cooperative board games: Pandemic, Forbidden Island or Flash Point: Fire Rescue. n

n Acknowledge his feelings but help him put them in proportion. Of course it is okay to be disappointed with a setback, but this is not the end of the world. n Replace a very competitive activity or add one that is less competitive. Activities like martial arts, volunteering, drama club, exercise and lessons can be just as enriching as playing on a team where winning is the primary goal. Ask older children to talk to your child about things they enjoy doing now. Show them that joy and relaxation can be found in a number of pursuits, regardless of whether winning is involved.

n Share with your child accounts of successful people who have lost competitions or faced setbacks. One loss won’t stop someone who is determined to succeed. Even professional sports players can strike out or miss a shot. n Teach your children the reality that in the world there will ALWAYS be someone faster/stronger/smarter than they are, just like there will always be someone slower/ weaker/less intelligent. Everyone has his own special talents. Make sure you remind your children of theirs. If they are suffering from a perceived loss, ask them to come up with some things they are good at.

Discuss what realistic goals look like. Is it realistic that you will come in first every time? Probably not. Is it realistic that you will improve? Probably—if you stick with it. Reinforce that improvement does not always happen in a straight line or even in ways that can be measured. Many video games offer experience points. You get experience points in life for having tried something, whether you won or lost. n

n Praise the effort, not the end result. Instead of saying, “Wow, you got an A,” say, “I am really proud of how hard you worked

on that project!” If you are picking her up after a competition, first ask, “Did you have fun?” rather than “Did you win?” n Praise the by-products of competition. You got some good exercise! You got to hang out and have fun with your friends! You got the chance to practice! n Help your child protect his or her free time. Let your kids pursue those activities they are passionate about, but help them say no to some of the multitude of possible uses of their time that will come their way. n Try not to compare your child’s performance to that of others, especially siblings or longterm classmates. Teach him to compete against himself or a measurable number. n Set a good example. Naturally, you want to brag to your friends about your kid’s successes. (Competitive parenting, anyone?) Sharing happy news with others is fine, but try to do it in a way that doesn’t make your child feel as though he has let you down if he didn’t win first prize. Let your child hear you compliment his competitors on a job well done too.

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

How do I tell whether my child is OVERLY competitive? 1. He is acting like a little egomaniac. He brags to his friends or siblings about how awesome he is. He is losing friends because of this attitude. 2. She cheats or changes the rules in her favor. Many kids will push boundaries and cheat at little things to see what they can get away with. This is a normal part of development; however, if the cheating becomes frequent this can be a red flag. 3. She is consistently a poor sport. Small children have to learn good sportsmanship, and this can take time. Older children should not throw tantrums or be extremely angry or sad because of one bad grade or a lost match. If your child cannot be respectful of her classmates or competitors, perhaps she should not be allowed to participate. 4. He gets down on himself and engages in negative, absolute thought patterns, like “I’m never going to get it right” or “Our team lost the game because I missed that one shot.”

Summit Christian Academy Ranked a Top 5 Private School in the Kansas City Area

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HEALTHYKIDS

importance of MAGNESIUM:

what it is, why it’s important and how to make sure your child gets enough

agnesium’s importance often is overlooked, but this nutrient is so important in the health and development of adults and kids alike. Studies are showing the benefits of magnesium intake in developing bone density in children, according to AAP.org. Calcium is usually looked at when we think about the health of bones, but magnesium may play an equally important role. In addition to bone development and support, magnesium plays a part in keeping the heart rhythm steady, while also supporting the immune system and helping with muscle and nerve development, according to BabyCenter.com. Meeting the exact requirements for magnesium every single day isn’t necessary. Instead, focus on hitting a good average over the course of a few days or a week. For kids ages 1-3, 80 mg daily is sufficient.

kcparent.com march 2017

For ages 4-8, 130 mg is the recommended daily average, according to BabyCenter.com. Fortunately, magnesium is found in a lot of foods, most commonly in nuts, beans, seeds and leafy green vegetables. Adding one serving of nuts during the day or adding beans to your salad or burritos will go a long way toward making sure your family reaches recommended levels. Some people prefer to take supplements to ensure they reach their desired amount of magnesium. While ingesting too much magnesium in its natural state is almost impossible, consuming too much through supplementation can happen. Typically, an over-the-counter multivitamin doesn’t contain the full dosage of magnesium needed per day. However, when a person combines a multivitamin with a balanced diet, she often can reach the appropriate level. Spotting magnesium deficiency in a child isn’t always easy. The child may have

difficulty verbalizing what he feels. Muscle weakness and cramping are the most common symptoms. If the deficiency goes on long enough, it can affect heart health, cause anxiety and increase blood pressure. As with avoiding many ailments, a well-balanced diet is the key! If you have any questions or concerns about any symptoms your child is experiencing, call your health care provider. Olathe mom Jessica Heine is a labor and delivery nurse. As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns.

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

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Special Advertising Section

Interactive Education Guide available at KCParent.com

KC Parent’s

Camp Guide

Cosmosphere From second graders through high school seniors, Cosmosphere campers spread their wings, expand their minds, and have fun they won’t find anywhere else on Earth. Camps include Space 101-501, Mars Academy, Forces of Flight, and Space Medicine. Building robots and rockets, SCUBA training like astronauts, interplanetary missions to solve a crisis, learning to fly, understanding the medical demands of long duration space travel… those are just some of ways your child can spend the summer. See display ad on pg. 25. www.Cosmo.org

Accelerated Schools

Christian Youth Theater

The Culture House

Accelerated Schools of Overland Park offers two summer programs from June 5 through July 28. High School students can earn credit for courses such as math, science, English, Spanish and social studies. Students entering 4 to 8 grade can attend the Academics & Arts Summer Camp, focusing on individualized academic tutoring as well as creative expression. Call 913.341.6666 for further information. See display ad on pg. 33. www.AcceleratedAchoolsOP.org

ACT. SING. DANCE. LIVE! CYT Kansas City offers a variety of fantastic summer theatre camps all across the KC metro area. Day camp themes include “Disney Around the World” and “Disney on Broadway” for half-day (ages 4-5 & 5-7) and full-day (ages 7-12) campers. Non-musical Xtreme camps (ages 10-16) include “Star Wars,” “Lord of the Rings,” and “Comic Books.” An all-new High School Master Drama Camp features “The Crucible.” Overnight camps include “High School Musical Jr” (ages 12-14) and “Big Fish” (ages 14-19), with full-length performances. Visit www.CYTKC.org or call 913.681.3318. See display ad on pg. 30.

Spend your summer at The Culture House! Our 2017 summer programs include dance, theatre, music and art ... all taught by professionally trained adults. “Footloose” (ages 13-19), “Madagascar” (ages 9-13), “Jungle Book Kids” (ages 6-11), Jazz (instrumental) Camp, Painting, Sculpture, Drawing, Disney Revue, Broadway Hits, Songs from Matilda, Songs from Moana, Perfectly Princess, Force Wars, Lion King Revue, Itty Bitty Ballerina, Hip Hop, Jazz, Ballet, Tap & more! Openings limited! See display ad on pg. 19. 913.393.3141. Enroll online: www.CultureHouse.com

The Coterie Acts Theatre Classes and Camps

iD Tech Camps

Animal Camp-Cub Creek Science Camp Imagine spending a week feeding lemurs, walking llamas, grooming miniature horses, and playing with puppies and parrots! Choose from over 100 activities, sleep comfortably in spacious, air-conditioned cabins, enjoy a variety of delicious meals, and learn from some of the friendliest and fun staff around! www.MoScienceCamp. com. If you’re looking for more adventure, check out our teen travel and adventure program on the island of Jamaica! www.AnimalCampJamaica.com. See display ad on pg. 31. Ask for free brochure! 573.458.2125.

kcparent.com march 2017

The Coterie offers camps for kids entering grades K-12 at five sites: Liberty (Liberty CC), Lee’s Summit (MCC Longview), Overland Park (Miller-Marley), The Plaza (Pembroke Hill) and the Northland (MCC Maple Woods). Half-day and full-day camps include creative drama, acting and audition skills. Performance Camps include Shrek the Musical Jr. and Sweeney Todd. See display ad on pg. 4. Visit www.TheCoterie.org.

iD Tech Camps held at UMKC, Wash U, Northwestern, MIT & More Code, game, and create at the world’s #1 summer technology camp! Students ages 7–18 will learn to code apps, design video games, mod Minecraft, engineer robots, discover cyber security, build websites, print 3D models, and more. Join 275,000+ alumni and learn from top instructors! Register at www.idtech.com/kc. See display ad on pg. 29 for a $50 coupon.

CAMPGUIDE

five reasons your child needs camp

here’s no doubt that summer camp is fun. Kids get to sing silly songs, play funny games, swim in lakes and tell spooky stories around a campfire. This is the image of camp that has been captured and memorialized in films, books and television programs for the past 50 years. But there’s much more to camp than just a good time. In addition to the fun, parents should be aware of these five reasons their child needs camp.

Camp forever changes your child…for the better — American Camp Association® (ACA) research has confirmed that camps build skills necessary to prepare campers to assume roles as successful adults. Campers said that camp helped them make new friends (96%), get to know kids who are different from them (93%), feel good about themselves (92%), and try things they were afraid to do at first (74%).

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Are Are youyou ready to for have ready onewild wildsu er? su er? one

Camp teachesÂ your child to â&#x20AC;&#x153;move it, move itâ&#x20AC;?â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Camp provides children the opportunity to try new things and participate in human powered activities. An estimated 22 million of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s children under the age of 5 are already considered obese. According to research conducted by ACA, 63 percent of children who learn new activities at camp tend to continue engaging in these activities after they return home. This leads to continued physical exercise that lasts a lifetime.

Camp keeps all that hard work from going to waste â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Camps understand the critical role they play in helping young people learn and grow. Many offer programs that help reduce summer learning loss, bolster academic enrichment and socialization, provide opportunities for leadership development, and ensure that campers achieve their full potential.

Camp allows kids to take a deep breath and feel the nature â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Camp is a great way for your child to unplug from electronics and plug into the world around them. According to a study by two Cornell University environmental psychologists, being close to nature can help boost a childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s attention span. In some instances, camp may be the only time a child is in contact with the natural world.

Su er at Pembroke Hiď&#x203A;&#x20AC; is open to aď&#x203A;&#x20AC; students ages 2-18.

Mix & match sessions to fit YOUR summer schedule!! â&#x20AC;˘ Canvas â&#x20AC;˘ Clay â&#x20AC;˘ Glass Fusion â&#x20AC;˘ Ceramics

Space Limited! AGES 6-12 KCP

paintglazeandfire.net 127th & Metcalf, OPKS â&#x20AC;˘ 913-661-CLAY

Enroď&#x203A;&#x20AC; online today at Â?w.pembrokehiď&#x203A;&#x20AC;.org

Camp is fun â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s true; kids do sing silly songs and play funny games at camp. Children are allowed to play in a safe and nurturing environment and are allowed to just be kids. Play is a powerful form of learning that contributes mightily to the childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s healthy physical, emotional, social and intellectual development. According to an American Academy of Pediatrics report, creative free play protects a childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s emotional development and reduces a childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s risk of stress, anxiety and depression. Reprinted by permission of the American Camp Association; American Camping Association, Inc. kcparent.com march 2017

CAMPGUIDE J Camp J Camp is Summer! Open to everyone, Jewish Community Center offers the best day Camp experience in Greater KC for ages 2-13. For youth entering 1st through 8th grade, you’ll find 11 Premiere and Specialty Camps that provide variety all summer long. The Child Development Center (CDC) Camp offers unique activities for children ages 2 – 5 years. Conveniently located at 117th and Nall, our unparalleled facilities include an on-site pool. Campers learn new skills with structured recreational and educational activities while enjoying art, sports, swimming, archery + more. Enroll at www.JCamp.org. See display ad on pg. 27.

Johnson County Park & Recreation District From Outdoor Discovery to Just for Fun, we offer over 75 different and well-supervised camp programs conveniently located throughout Johnson County. Dedicated to

providing activities that promote emotional, intellectual and physical health, our summer fun choices include nature and science, preschool enrichment, art, sports, computers, leadership development, and music, theatre, and dance. The options include both indoor and outdoor programs, and full- and partial-day schedules are available. For details, call 913.831.3359 or visit www.jcprd.com/activities/camps.cfm. See display ad on pg. 21.

The KCYA Community School of the Arts Kansas City Young Audiences offers children performing and visual arts classes, camps and private instruction at their new creative space on Main Street. Spring Break Camps will be held March 13-17. Summer Camps begin in June. Scholarships are available. 816.531.4022. See display ad on pg. 32. www.KCYA.org

KampOut-Kanakuk KampOut! brings the fun of one of the largest Christian summer camps in the nation, Kanakuk, to your hometown. Kanakuk professional staff leads this highenergy traveling day camp through five days of guided sports and activity times, Bible study, worship and small-group time for children in kindergarten through 5th grade. To learn more about your local KampOut! visit: www.Kanakuk.com/kampout. See display ad on pg. 34.

Kanakuk Camps Kanakuk is a premier summer camp experience for boys and girls age 6–18 located in Branson and Lampe, MO. Our 5 Overnight Kids camps provide children with age-appropriate, fun, safe and professional outdoor youth camping experiences that grow them spiritually, physically, emotionally and socially. Kids

continued on page 26

PLAN AHEAD WITH OUR SUMMER PROGRAMS FOR AGES 3-18 SUMMER PROGRAMS 2017 Classes are designed to provide your child with excellent ballet training and superior attention from our professional teachers, all while having fun. Classes begin June 5.

PROGRAMS INCLUDE: • Creative Movement ages 3-5

• Under the Sea & Adventure Camps ages 3-5

BOLENDER CENTER 500 W. Pershing Kansas City, MO 64108 Union Station

Pershing

Nall Ave.

I-3 5

Broadway

Photographer Brett Pruitt & East Market Studios

• 1- to 8-week Ballet Classes & Camps ages 3-18

94th Terr.

JOHNSON COUNTY 5359 W. 94th Terr. Prairie Village, KS 66207

W. 95th St.

SPACE IS LIMITED. . .ENROLL TODAY! 816.931.2299 | kcballet.org/school for a complete list of summer courses

kcparent.com march 2017

CAMPGUIDE

r e m m u s e h spend t

’ve written in the past about the co-op camp that a friend and I used to run each summer for our girls. For the theme of my camp one summer, I chose “Giving Back in KC.” We spent the week finding ways to volunteer and give back in our own community. I’m often asked about volunteering options available for families in Kansas City. Below is a snapshot of the activities from our week. Note that some locations do require a minimum age for volunteers, so be sure to ask about that when looking into volunteering with kids.

giving back

kcparent.com march 2017

Lemonade Stand: The old tried and true way to raise money was a big hit. We hosted a stand and used everything we earned to help fund our activities throughout the week. It took an entire day but was extremely successful. And, with social media, we were able to spread the word to friends and family members.

Another option for raising money is a toy sale. Monies raised from either a lemonade stand or a toy sale can be used to purchase supplies or can be directly donated to a charity of your choice.

School Supply Drive: We decided to collect school supplies to donate to Catholic Charities, which gives to families that aren’t able to afford school supplies. We printed up flyers, attached them to grocery sacks and then went door to door through a few neighborhoods leaving the note and bags. On the notes, we said we’d be back around later in the week to collect the supplies. I did not anticipate the amount of supplies we’d collect—it took us an entire day to pick them all up and sort them! Prepare and Serve Dinner: We used the money we raised at our lemonade stand to plan, purchase, prep and serve a meal to the residents at Shalom House, a homeless men’s shelter that

provides shelter and hospitality to men who need a safe place to stay. Because it was summer, we decided on a barbecuethemed dinner and prepared hot dogs, brats, hamburgers, baked beans, chips, watermelon, cole slaw, brownies and cookies. We prepared the food at home and then transferred to the shelter. We set up and then served the meal. After we were finished serving, we sat down and ate with the guests of Shalom House. This was one of my favorite activities. The men we encountered were so grateful for what we had done, and I know the kids enjoyed getting to see the fruits of their labor in action.

Pack a Snack: We visited Harvesters and learned about their BackSnack program, which provides a backpack with nutritious food for school children to take home over the weekend. The girls were able to practice packaging the snacks. It’s quite a process, and they sure

have it down to a science! They also enjoyed learning about all of the kids all over the metro that are helped through this program. Each place we visited was so appreciative of our help. And several people I spoke with mentioned that if you aren’t able to give your time, monetary donations are always appreciated. It was a busy week, but it was time well spent with many life lessons learned. KC Parent editor Margaret Sarver loves finding ways to give back with her girls.

Is your teen looking to volunteer this summer? Youth Volunteer Corps Summer of Service allows ages 11-18 to get handson experiences serving our community. Details at YVCKC.org.

kcparent.com march 2017

CAMPGUIDE

This summer, imaginations take ffl light.

have fun with friends participating in more than 70 activities, sports and amazing themed parties. Our full-time and summer staff are committed to our mission to develop dynamic Christian leaders. Learn more about customizing your child’s summer camp experience at www.GoKanakuk.com. See display ad on pg. 23.

Kansas City Ballet

Now Enrolling! Experience the excitement of our Summer Adventure Club where imaginations are free to run wild. Get ready for engineering design challenges, discoveries, outdoor exploration and more. It’s going to be one epic summer. Fun for ages 5 – 10.* Learn more at PrimroseSummer.com. Flexible Schedules • Exciting Adventures Space is Limited – Call Today! Primrose School of North Olathe PrimroseNorthOlathe.com • 913.764.0018

Kansas City Ballet School Summer Programs include once-a-week classes and four-day ballet camps for children ages 2-7. Camp themes include Beauty and the Beast and Island Adventures. Additional courses and workshops available for ages 8-18. Classes begin June 5th. Enroll today to guarantee your child’s spot. Two convenient locations: Downtown and Johnson County. See display ad on pg. 22. For more information visit www.KCBallet.org or call 816.931.2299.

Each Primrose School is a privately owned and operated franchise. Primrose Schools is a trademark of Primrose School Franchising Company. ©2017 Primrose School Franchising Company. All rights reserved. *Ages for Summer Adventure Club programs vary by location.

Kansas City Zoo

June 5-9 Looking for something fun to do this summer? Quest is a week full of adventure for only $50! Kansas City Zoo

Human Foosball

Water Parks

kcparent.com march 2017

Roller Skating

Make your summer a little wilder with Zoofari Adventures Summer Camp. Camp runs May 30 through August 11. Your animal enthusiasts will get the inside scoop on the Zoo’s creatures. A typical camp week includes exclusive zoo tours, animal encounters and shows, science experiments, games, and crafts. Topics vary each week. Half day camps are available for ages 4-5, full day for ages 5-15. COST: ½ Day: $110, Full Day: $250, Before care-$10 (7:30am -8:30 am)Aftercare-$15 (3:30pm-5:30pm). 10% discount for FOTZ members. See display ad on pg. 27. www.KansasCityZoo.org/education

KU Edwards Campus Have your kids dreamed of working at Google or building the latest, greatest app? Do they aim to be an MVP on the cover of Sports Illustrated? The KU Edwards Campus in Overland Park is hosting a variety of summer camps for kids interested in science, technology engineering, math and sports/fitness. Learn more at www.EdwardsCampus.KU.edu/SummerCamps. See display ad on pg. 33.

Mesner Puppet Theater Mesner Puppet Theater camps let you explore favorite children’s stories, songs and rhymes through a range of puppet activities. The camps are designed for children pre-K through sixth grades and offer a variety of exciting titles such as Outer Space Adventures, Superheroes, and the Wonderful Wizard of Oz. The weeklong camps will keep kids excited and engaged and create memories they won’t soon forget. All camps are held at the MPT studio, 1006 E. Linwood Blvd. in Kansas City’s historic Hyde Park neighborhood. See display ad on pg. 31. MesnerPuppets.org

& Safari Day Campsthe Zoo! Summer Camps at For kids ages 4–15

Join us for Zoo-mazing fun and animal adventures on your days off from school and during the summer too!

Nerman Museum Early Explorations classes (ages 5-7) and Contemporary Creations classes (ages 8-11) are interactive art learning experiences. Students learn directly from JCCC’s diverse permanent collection and temporary exhibitions in the Nerman Museum. After exploring selected works of art, students create original works of art in the studio classroom. Classes are offered Tues.-Fri., June 9-July 31, with individual sessions from 10AM-noon or 2PM-4PM. Register at JCCC.edu/youth or call 913.469.2323. See display ad on pg. 32.

Visit kansascityzoo.org/camp for more details! OPEN DAILY | kansascityzoo.org | 816.595.1234

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

Camp 2017

Notre Dame de Sion School Join us and get ready to be extraordinary! At Sion Summer Spectacular students can participate in engaging, innovative, and ageappropriate enrichment camps for PreK-8 boys and girls in the arts, STEM, wellness, and fitness led by our outstanding faculty and renowned industry partners. Our program is designed to accommodate your family’s schedule, offering weekly camps, as well as morning and afternoon extended day care options. Whether students take center stage with Camellot Academy, or participate in our weekly classes with our expert instructors and global partners, Sion Summer Spectacular will make their inner superhero shine! To enroll please visit

early

discount!

Enroll by March 31 and receive an 8% discount

June 5 - Aug. 4 • Ages 2 -13 • Open to all 12 Premiere + Specialty Day Camps One convenient location (117th & Nall) Extended hours available

Now Enrolling! JCampKC.org

continued on page 32 kcparent.com march 2017

10 benefits of In a distracting digital world, camp offers valuable space where kids can slow down, connect and focus.

enhances self-confidence. According to an extensive study of camper outcomes conducted by Philliber Research Associates, 70 percent of parents report their child gained self-confidence while at camp. Whether they work through homesickness or tackle an activity that pushes them outside of their comfort zone, kids walk away feeling a stronger sense of personal pride and selfreliance. “We use our activities and facilities as platforms to encourage kids in who they are and equip them to grow in confidence in who God has created them to be,” Perkins says. “With this newfound perspective, they become influencers in their own communities.”

helps them unplug. In a distracting

summer camp

s 14 million children across the nation head off to day and overnight camps this summer, they’ll return home with more than just cute camp t-shirts. The summer camp experience can give kids an advantage in school and in life. Here’s how camp benefits kids:

nurtures social skills. Camp is a community away from home and school where kids learn to work with each other and adult mentors, build relationships and manage conflict. “You learn to navigate through group dynamics, to barter, to keep one another happy, to be sensitive and support a friend who’s sad,” says James Spearin, senior vice president of youth development, YMCA of Greater Kansas City. “These skills transfer and build adults with strong character and leadership.” models healthy living. According

to the Centers for Disease Control, obesity in children has doubled and in teens has quadrupled in the last 30 years. Thanks to the many activities camp offers, kids stay busy and physically active. More camps also are working to offer healthier food choices for their campers. According to a 2014 study in the American Journal of Health Behavior, camps that offer

kcparent.com march 2017

wholesome foods are more likely to turn out campers who eat more fruits and veggies. Many resident and day camps now offer cooking and gardening tracks where kids learn how to prepare nutritious meals.

eases the summer slide. You know

that old saying: “If you snooze, you lose.” In the absence of regular enrichment over summer break, research finds that kids typically lose as much as two months of grade level equivalency in math. Reading comprehension and spelling skills also take a hit during the summer. To help curb summer learning loss, many specialized camps offer educational opportunities in STEM disciplines (science, technology, engineering and math) that make learning and problem-solving fun and interactive. Also look for camps geared toward reading, writing and the arts.

provides a sense of achievement. From rock climbing

to whitewater rafting and horseback riding, summer camp gives kids a chance to try activities they wouldn’t ordinarily get to try. “Trying new things in an encouraging environment creates a greenhouse for growing young leaders,” says Garret Perkins, director of Camp Kanakuk, a faith-based camp that offers overnight, day and family camps.

digital world, camp offers valuable space where kids can slow down, connect and focus. “At Kanakuk, we remove the distraction technology offers and give campers the chance to plug into the great outdoors, try new sports and activities, make friends through shared experiences instead of shared social media platforms—and we see them come alive,” Perkins says.

builds friendships. Away from the

pressures, labels and social structure of school, kids benefit from one of the best parts of camp: the opportunity to make new friends. “Some of the biggest benefits we saw from sending our children to Kanakuk were their new friendships, spiritual growth and just the opportunity for them to spend time in the beautiful Ozark setting with like-minded people away from worldly distractions,” says Dianne Shadwick, Overland Park, whose three, now-grown children began attending Camp Kanakuk at age 9.

What Campers Say: • 96 percent say camp helped them make new friends. • 92 percent say people at camp make them feel good about themselves. • 74 percent did something they were afraid to do at first. Source: ACACamps.org

reintroduces them to nature.

encourages personal growth.

According to a nationwide poll conducted by the Nature Conservancy, only about 10 percent of children spend time outdoors every day. Why? Kids say they aren’t interested, they lack access and are uncomfortable outside. In the meantime, they’re growing more and more attached to life in cyberspace and further detached from the natural world. “To connect with our woods and forests, our wildlife, our lakes and streams and oceans, our stars in complete darkness, all while depending on other campers and adults to keep one another safe, is an experience unlike most others in life,” Spearin says.

While camp may seem simply like a quintessential summer pastime for kids where they might learn to swim, sleep in a cabin and sing around a campfire, camp actually rewards youngsters with personal development skills that will help them in the classroom, in their relationships and, eventually, the board room—or whatever their calling. “Those tangible experiences lead to building the foundations of stronger children who can lead others, show empathy, navigate through difficult group dynamics, value the differences in everyone and give of themselves for the benefit of others,” Spearin says. “These are skills that the best in our society show throughout life.”

fosters teamwork. Camp facilitates an

environment where kids learn that to succeed they must work together with their peers and their camp leaders. Whether they’re working to build a campfire together, playing a game or preparing a meal, campers learn to problemsolve to accomplish their goals. Through teamwork, kids learn they are each an integral part of the camp community where they feel a sense of acceptance and belonging.

Freelance journalist Christa Melnyk Hines is an Olathe mom of two sons who love to attend camps each summer. Christa’s latest book is Happy, Healthy & Hyperconnected: Raise a Thoughtful Communicator in a Digital World.

Choosing an Overnight Camp Maturity. Most kids are ready by age 9 or 10, but consider your child’s physical and emotional maturity first. Plan ahead. Check out websites, talk to friends and family for recommendations and visit prospective camps. Size of camp. Decide whether your child would do better in a large or small setting. Location. Because of their geographical locations, some camps offer better outdoor or adventure activities than others and may be more likely to have access to experienced adventure specialists. Meet the director. A meeting will help you get a sense of his or her personality, trustworthiness and compatibility. Source: EverythingSummer.com

kcparent.com march 2017

CAMPGUIDE

QUESTIONS TO ASK

when looking for overnight camp

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.

kcparent.com march 2017

• 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 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-to-child 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.

SPRING BREAK CAMP March 13-17, 2017

SUMMER CAMPS PRE K Old MacDonald’s Puppet Farm July 24-28, 2017

• What is their approach to conflicts that may arise?

Under the Sea July 31-August 4, 2017

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.

K-FIRST GRADE Outer Space Adventures July 10-14, 2017 I’m a Superhero July 24-28, 2017

• 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.

Oh, the Puppets You’ll Make July 31-August 4, 2017 FIRST – THIRD GRADE It’s Our Oz June 26-30, 2017 My Very Own Puppet Show July 10-14, 2017

ENROLL TODAY! Contact Alex Espy at 816-756-3500 or alex@mesnerpuppets.org

I’m a Superhero July 17-21, 2017 FOURTH-SIXTH GRADE It’s Our Oz June 19-23, 2017 Robot Invasion! July 17-21, 2017 kcparent.com march 2017

CAMPGUIDE www.NDSion.edu/summer. Grade School Campus: 3823 Locust, KC MO. See display ad on pg. 24.

Paint, Glaze & Fire Ceramics & Coffee House Camp ARTRAGEOUS! Paint Glaze & Fire Ceramics & Coffee House is offering summer camp for its 20th season! Your child will learn new techniques and have fun creating art in our multi-medium camps (ceramics, clay, canvas & glass fusion). Class size is limited—sign up early! Check it out online and find more information as well as a registration form at www.PaintGlazeAndFire.net. For more information on these and many other fun and creative programs, visit the website. See display ad on pg. 21. 913.661.CLAY (2529).

Primrose School of North Olathe Participating in this kind of high-quality, balanced program doesn’t have to stop at

the end of the school year. At the Primrose Summer Adventure Club, children enjoy exploring interesting topics AND continue learning through purposeful play. The Primrose Summer Adventure Club builds Active Minds, Healthy Bodies and Happy Hearts® through. In addition to having fun activities and learning we will be taking field trips weekly during the day. Call us to learn more! See display ad on pg. 26. www.PrimroseSummer.com

Quest June 5th-9th.Roller blading, water parks, a visit to the zoo, human foosball, these are just a few of activities that you could experience at QUEST. Quest is summer day camp for students entering 6th-9th grade. Registration is only $50 and covers all activities and snacks. Registration fills up quickly. For more information and to reserve your spot today, visit www.vcc.church. See display ad on pg. 26.

camp guide

Sing Dance Create Act Paint LaughSummer Sculpt PlayCamps Sing Dance 3732 Main St. Create Act Paint Laugh Sculpt 816.531.4022 KCYA.org andDance Classes Play Sing Create Act Paint at Laugh Sculpt Play Sing KCYA... Dance Create Act Paint Laugh Sculpt Play Sing Dance Create Act Paint Laugh Sculpt Play Sing Dance Create Act Paint Laugh Sculpt Play Sing Dance Create Act Paint Sing Dance Create Act Paint Laugh Sculpt Play Sing Dance Create Act unique visitors to the Paint Laugh Sculpt Play Sing virtual camp guide in 2016 Sing Dance CreDance Create Act Paint Laugh ate Act Paint Laugh Sculpt Play Sing Join Dance Create Act Us! Paint Laugh Sculpt Play Sing Dance Crereaders each issue ate Act Paint Laugh • June – August of KC Parent Magazine Sculpt Play Best.Sing • Ages 4 – 18 Dance Create Act Summer. Paint Laugh Sculpt A unique web + print package • Weekly classes Play Sing Dance Crethat increases exposure and Ever. ate Act Paint Laugh • Week-long, leverages multimedia platforms! full & half-day CAMPS Sculpt Play Sing Dance Create Act Call • Scholarships available Paint Laugh Sculpt Play Sing Dance Cre• Convenient Midtown ate Act Paint Laugh location to spread the word about Sculpt Play ate Act your camp! Paint Laugh Sculpt • Schedules and class Play Sing Dance Credescriptions available ate Act Paint Laugh online: www.KCYA.org Sculpt Play Sing Dance Create Act

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Science City Science City Summer Camp 2017 provides a fun, hands-on environment to explore exciting STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and math) topics. Campers ages 6-12 engage in life science, physical science, art and innovation each week! Space is limited! Camp runs June 5-Aug 4, Monday through Friday, 9:00-4:00. FREE early and late care available. $200/ week for Union Station members, $225/ non-members. For more information, visit www.ScienceCity.Com/SummerCamp. See display ad on pg. 35.

Summer at Barstow Give your child a summer adventure filled with lasting memories. Summer at Barstow offers a spectacular experience for children ages 3–14 in academics, sports, arts and enrichment. Imaginations soar and campers stay active with over 400 engaging camp options—including

Get creative at the Nerman Museum! Classes (ages 5-11) combine engaging, interactive tours with unique studio projects.

54,179

104,000

.com

913.782.3235

kcparent.com march 2017

Tuesdays-Fridays, June 6-July 28 10 a.m. - noon or 2-4 p.m. Pre-registration is required. 913-469-2323 • www.jccc.edu/youth

Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art Johnson County Community College

visual and performing arts, science and technology. Summer at Barstow 2017 runs Tuesday, May 30 through Friday, August 4, with extended care options available to all campers. Our catalog is available online at www.barstowschool.org/summer. See display ad on pg. 20.

Summer at Pembroke Hill This summer is going to be wild! Dare to climb your way to the top of a steep incline, embark on a journey as a ninja warrior, or discover the mysteries of ancient Egypt. Designed to accommodate your family’s busy schedule, our program offers flexibility by allowing you to enroll in any of the weeks you choose. Open to the community, students ages 2-18 are able to participate in our comprehensive summer camp. Enroll online today at www.PembrokeHill.org. See display ad on pg. 21.

June 26-30 Vineyard Community Church 8301 Lamar Ave | (913) 381-5577 | vcc.church FOR STUDENTS GOING INTO 1ST - 5TH GRADE FALL OF 2017 Don’t know what to do with those long summer days? VCamp is a week full of fun and safe activities for only $40!

continued on page 34

R E M M U S 2017

If your child is facing challenges in school, “excelling” may seem out of reach. We specialize If your child is facing challenges in school, “excelling” may seem outinofworking reach. with students whostudents don’t always “fit into We specialize in working with the who don’t always “fit into thebox.” box.”

Camps

hosted by KU in Overland Park

For more than will 30 years, Summer programs be heldconcerned parents from June 5 until JulyAccelerated 28, 2017 Schools for have turned to the High School students in grades individualized learning programs that help SUMMER CAMP FUN FOR KIDS 9-12 can complete up to Camps are hosted by the KU Edwards Campus in Overland Park. students of all academic levels with unique 1 full credit in subjects including educational needs overcome challenges and math, science, social studies, excel English,academically. Spanish and art. All courses accredited the State4of- Kansas Physical Activity and Youth Fitness Camps • FullareDay School by- Grades 12 and AdvancED. Middle school students, grades 4-8, can (Ages 5-11) Schooland Tutoring - Grades 1-12 attend•theAfter Academics Arts Camp. They can KU Department of Health, Sport and Exercise Sciences spend•2.5Accredited hours in individualized tutoring•and thenStudent-Teacher ratio Low participate in 1.5Report hours Cards of creative expression. • Daily Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math Camps • Transportation Available All programs are from 9 am until 1 pm, Monday (Incoming 6th-9th graders) • Effective Reward System • Free Academic Testing through Friday. Individualized tutoring is also available. KU Center for STEM Learning

The Accelerated Schools of Overland Park The Accelerated Schools Overland 10713 BarkleyofSt., OverlandPark Park, KS

10713Call Barkley St., Overland Park, KS or visit our website: 913-341-6666 Call or visit our website: 913-341-6666 www.AcceleratedSchoolsOP.org www.AcceleratedSchoolsOP.org

LIMITED SPOTS. REGISTER NOW.

EdwardsCampus.KU.edu/SummerCamps

kcparent.com march 2017

S TOIGN DA -U Y! P

CAMPGUIDE Vcamp June 26-30. Looking for a low-cost, funpacked, summer day camp for your kids? At Vcamp, kids will explore what it means to be created by God, built for a purpose.

Life-Changing Fun & Adventure! t

Day camp experience for elementary age boys and girls Incredible activities including a climbing wall, zip line, and water slides Experience Jesus through Bible Study and Worship Professional, servant-hearted Kanakuk staﬀ A glimpse of the Kanakuk overnight experience

Join us at KampOut! in Kansas City this summer! Several locations available — visit cometokamp.com or call 417.266.3000 to register today.

Vcamp is for kids entering 1st-5th grade and runs from 10:00 am to 4:30 pm daily. Students bring a sack lunch each day. $40 for the week includes snacks, supplies, and wrap-around care is available at no additional charge. Register online at www.vcc.church. See display ad on pg. 33.

Youthfront Youthfront Camps offer 74 years of camp experience for students of all ages at two great locations. All camp programming holds time for swimming, theme nights, solitude and a amazing attractions like Splash Parks, Nerf Wars, Climbing Walls and more! We provide an authentic community where students grow in their relationship with God and make strong friendships that last a lifetime. Registration is now open at www.Youthfront.com! Contact us at info@youthfront.com to learn more. See display ad on pg. 34.

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

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the gift of

raising girls

s a mom to two girls, I must say (and without sarcasm), “Raising girls is fun!” No, really. When I was a child, I remember always wanting to have a daughter when I grew up. Little did I know that my future would hand me two, and I couldn’t be happier. Don’t get me wrong—I don’t have anything against boys. I think boys are wonderful. However, as a little girl who loved her dolls (and still does), I always knew I’d love mothering girls. And I was right. First of all, there are the adorable clothes, the cute ponytails and braids and the plethora of princess movies. Let’s not forget about the sleepovers, the giggles and all of the drama that comes with girls as they grow into the beautiful teen years. While some days aren’t so sugar-andspicy in our home, I love every minute of it, and I thank the heavens for all of the opportunities life has given us “girl moms” to bond with our girls. As moms, the trick is to take advantage of “girl time” as much as we can before our daughters grow up. Sometimes, though, it can be hard to think of things to do. So here are some wonderful ideas to get you bonding:

good book together. You might even make it a reading tea party or picnic!

Moms of Young Girls:

the lookout for free local performances or coupons for ballets, plays, operas and other events in your town. This is a great opportunity to try new things and talk about them afterwards.

Color pictures. Because coloring books are all the rage right now, take out your crayons or colored pencils, decide on a page to color in the coloring book(s) and color together! When you finish, hang your pictures on a wall for everyone to admire. Go on a nature walk. It doesn’t have to be at a park or in the woods. Simply walking around your neighborhood, down the street or in your own yard will give you the opportunity to look at the nature around you.

Have a dance party. That’s right. Just the two of you. Dress up in your jazziest dancewear and blast some fun music to dance to. Teach your girl some of your moves and let her teach you some of hers! Read a chapter book together. Snuggle up under a blanket on the sofa and read a

Have a spa day. Paint each other’s nails, style each other’s hair and have fun with the makeup! A spa day at home is always the best way to bond and get to know each other better.

Take a field trip. No, it doesn’t need to be educational. It just needs to be fun! Spend a day at the zoo or go to a park or movie.

Moms of ‘Tweens and Teens. Take a class together. Learn yoga or painting. Check out a pottery class or learn a foreign language together.

Dress up and go out on the town. Be on

Get pampered. Go to a local spa and get massages, have your nails done or get pedicures together. And when the relaxation comes to an end, be sure to pamper your tummy with a good lunch or dinner with her. Help out a cause. Volunteer or fundraise for a cause you both care deeply about, such as a local animal shelter, children’s hospital or soup kitchen. Visit an art museum. Spend the day meandering through walls and rooms of art. Talk about your favorite pieces over brunch or lunch.

Teach her how to cook/bake. Find a yummy recipe and show your daughter how to whip up something amazing. Spending time in the kitchen together is always a delightful way to learn more about each other and form that close bond. Aside from the occasional bumps in the road along the way, raising girls truly is a gift. It’s a blessing unlike any other, and when we devote some of our time to our daughters and truly bond, nothing will ever break it. So get on with your bad selves, moms, and bond with your girls! You won’t regret it.

Kansas City mom and author Gina Klein loves spending quality time with her two girls, baking, playing dolls, talking, dreaming, storytelling and doing arts and crafts.

While some days aren’t so sugar-and-spicy in our home, I love every minute of it, and I thank the heavens for all of the opportunities life has given us “girl moms” to bond with our girls.

the joy of

raising boys

have three sons. No girls. Just boys. With each pregnancy, my intuition told me I was having a daughter (the sonograms always proved my gut wrong, and I spent the remainder of my pregnancies switching gears from thoughts of sugar and spice to snakes and snails). Even though I never expected to be an all-boy mom, I adore it. But you better believe I’ve received lots of comments throughout the years when I take my brood around town.

“So, do you think you’ll try for a girl?” “Wow! All boys. That’s exhausting. Just how do you do it?” “You’re lucky! Girls are all drama.” These comments never have really bothered me. I realize most of the time strangers are just seeking to make friendly conversation (though the whole “girls are drama” spiel doesn’t necessarily move me…I love my sons not because they’re not girls but because they’re a gift, plain and simple). I also look at those moments as opportunities to affirm my boys in front of others. Being a mom of boys is a privilege but one I don’t feel get the credit it deserves. Think about it. The term daddy’s girl produces positive and uplifting connotations, doesn’t it? Churches and community centers host annual daddy daughter dances, acknowledging the special role fathers have with

the little women in their lives. The special relationships dads and daughters have even have been the source material for many a tear-jerking song. Now think of the term “mama’s boy.” What comes to mind is usually more a derogatory term than one of endearment. If a boy is close to his mom, he’s thought to be spineless and self-doubting. And it’s often assumed that Mom is overbearing and fights her son’s battles for him. No one thinks it’s cute or sweet if a young man is a mama’s boy. And let’s face it….the song options for the mother-son dances at weddings leave much to be desired. So, what’s the solution? Here are four of my favorite aspects of being a boy mom.

Easy Peasy Lemon Squeezy I’ve found boys generally to be low maintenance. They don’t fight wearing what you lay out for them or voice strong opinions about every little thing like girls often do. In general, I find boys to be easygoing (don’t mistake easygoing for easy, though!).

Free Fitness Instruction Boys can run circles around the Energizer Bunny any given day. They leap with boundless energy, put the structural integrity of your house to the test, and the only offswitch to this frenetic chaos is called sleep. After my second son was born, I took up long-distance running, not just to prepare for half-marathons but also to build the endurance it took to keep up with my little brood. The good news? Boys give you the benefit of free fitness instruction in house! Endless rounds of chase around the kitchen

table? Endurance training. Throwing your little guy up into the air over and over again? Bicep and squat workout. And all those Superman/planking poses Little Guy does on your feet while you lie on the floor? I can’t think of a better core routine!

Go, Son, Go My boys love when I cheer them on at their basketball games. But they love it just as much when I join them for a game of PIG in the driveway. Boys want to be encouraged in their pursuits, but they appreciate it just as much when you yourself are willing to spend time pursuing the things that interest them. A son wants his mother to be both his cheerleader and his teammate.

First Love The bond that I had with my firstborn was instantaneous from the moment he was placed on my chest. I suppose this is one of the biggest concerns moms-to-be of boys have: How will I connect with a son? It’s natural to want to have a child of your own gender, Nancy Irwin, psychotherapist, affirms within a Disney Babble article titled, “The Joy of Raising Boys.” She says, “Just because you have never been a boy, doesn’t mean you can’t raise a great one. Raise your child to be the most loving person possible, and he will fill in all the other blanks according to his innate personality, environment and social learning.” While a boy looks to his dad to be his best friend, Mom will always be his first love. Lauren Greenlee raises three boys and writes from her Olathe home.

A son wants his mother to be both his cheerleader and his teammate.

your child, less whiny

ealing with whining kids may be one of the most difficult jobs a parent must do. Why does it always seem to be when you are in a rush, grabbing necessary grocery items, waiting in line to check out, that your 3-year-old melts down? She doesn’t want to sit in the cart. She doesn’t want to be here. And, pleeeeeease, can he have candy? Mommy, pleeeeeease?! You know you should say no. But if you say yes, she might cooperate and stop whining. What’s a parent to do?

“The Building Blocks for your Child’s Future”

The first thing parents should realize is that whining is a result of a child’s needs not being met. Obviously, parents can’t do everything to make their kids happy, and sometimes kids need to tough it out when a day hasn’t gone their way. However, kids are kids. They get tired and hungry and bored (like adults do!), and that often leads to whining. Aha! Parenting, a website offering insights by clinical psychologist Laura Markham, PhD, suggests that if kids’ needs are met—proper rest, good nutrition and activities to keep them busy—the whining will decrease. Another major cause of whining is lack of connection to Mom and Dad. Kids are smart little things. They know that whining will get a reaction out of you. Even if it’s negative response, at least they got your attention. If whining is becoming a common problem in your household, brainstorm ideas for bonding with your child. How can you fit in some one-on-one time? In “The Cure for Whining,” Markham says even if it’s a quick coloring session or game of Go Fish, this connection might help stave off some annoying kid-speak.

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Now, how to respond? Because we all know that no matter how hard we try to prevent it, this frustrating aspect of parenthood is somewhat inevitable. The number one rule of parenting is not to indulge whining. But that’s easier said than done. The first step is to remain calm in response. Parents.com recommends a completely neutral facial expression. State, without emotion, that you will not hear a whining voice and will only respond when your child speaks in a nicer voice. Also, capitalize on the fact that young children want to feel big, important and valuable. If they are whining about running errands or picking up toys, for instance, make it a job. Kids like being helpers. Ask them to help pick out items at the store or carry bags. Ask them to be leaders and helpers at home with “important jobs.” This sense of purpose and responsibility often will encourage cooperation. Furthermore, whining often rises out of kids’ wanting to gain control and manipulate a situation. If you respond by saying they will have a say in how things go, but only if they speak nicely like

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a big kid, you’ve ended the whining and given them some control. Parents.com emphasizes the importance of modeling examples. We often assume kids know what we want from them, but sometimes they need direction. Model what “asking nicely” and “speaking like a big kid” look and sound like. Then, when they do it properly, praise, praise, praise! Another idea is to distract them. Especially for younger kids, a tickle fight, joke-telling or singing songs may bring a smile to your child’s face and make him forget about why he was whining in the first place. Finally, if whining is a chronic problem related to a specific event or task, it might be time to reevaluate your routine. If something like getting dressed causes discord on a daily basis, try picking out outfits the night before and providing rewards for getting dressed in a timely manner. If your 3-year-old consistently acts up at your older son’s basketball games, try to bring some special snacks or new activities to keep him busy. Consider taking him for a walk half-way through the game to release some energy and help him

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feel noticed and valued at his brother’s event. Hopefully, these tips will help you fight the dreaded w-word in your home! Remember: Model examples, meet their needs and don’t indulge or react with emotion. Let’s kick whining to the curb! Olathe mom Karen Johnson has three children, ages 8, 6 and 4. She writes at The21stCenturySAHM.com.

QUIZ: 1. It’s okay to indulge in whining sometimes. (FALSE) 2. Whining often results when a child’s needs aren’t being met. (TRUE) 3. One way to stop whining is to help the child feel important and connected to you. (TRUE) 4. Yelling at kids to stop whining is effective. (FALSE) 5. Kids often need examples of what speaking properly sounds like. (TRUE)

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keeping kids SAFE in a crowd

Parents also worry about keeping their kids safe online. Visit KCParent.com for internet safety tips.

t’s every parent’s worst nightmare. One second your child is by your side, then a momentary distraction, and your child is gone. Our family experienced this in the Legoland Kansas City attraction shortly after it opened. Our group consisted of our 3-year-old quadruplets, three adults and a teenage helper. One of our daughters still managed to wander off and absolutely terrify us for a few brief seconds before we could locate her again. Since then, we have been even more hyper-vigilant to make sure that our kids are safe in a crowd. Here are a few ideas to help you keep track of your most precious possessions:

1. Dress them alike. Many parents coordinate or match their kids’ clothing when going out in public, making them easy to pick out of a crowd and giving a point of reference if someone tries to wander off. Hannah Mendoza, North Kansas City, says, “I have five kids and when going somewhere crowded, I make them all wear the same bright color. Also, I am constantly counting them like a preschool teacher!”

kcparent.com march 2017

2. Attach your contact info to their clothes. For younger children who are unable to remember your contact info, make sure you pin a slip of paper to their clothes, tuck your phone number in their pocket or get a shoe tag to tie to their shoelaces. Make sure they know it’s there and that they know how to identify a “safe stranger” who can help them if they get lost. For older kids, ensure they can identify themselves and know their parents’ names, address and cell phone numbers. In our age of technology, we tend to just store everything in our phones; however, making sure your kids have this info stored in their brains (or in their pockets) is far more beneficial.

3. Grab a leash. The idea of using leash backpacks with kids can garner some strong opinions from parents, but at the end of the day, sometimes just knowing your kids can’t get away from you is the easiest way to keep them safe. Amanda Murphy, Chilhowee, says, “I wasn’t sure about the child ‘leashes.’ Now that I have mobile twins, I have used the backpack harnesses a few times and I have to say, they are a lifesaver!”

4. Pick a landmark. When your family gets to an event, choosing a meeting place in case you get separated is a good idea. Pick something like a tall tree, a cross street or the produce department as your meet-up spot. Or do what South Kansas City mom Laura Hall does: “Oftentimes if we are at an outside event, we’ll tie a balloon to the stroller so if they do get separated, they know to look for the balloon.”

5. Take a photo. In a worst case scenario, you might need to describe what your child was wearing to those who are helping. Much better than a description is an actual photo. Before you head to the zoo, one of Kansas City’s festivals or any other crowded event, line your kids up for a quick snapshot. That photo of what they look like today will be the most helpful thing you can provide if you need assistance finding them. Rebecca Ishum lives in Belton with her husband and 6-year-old quadruplets. They often use the divide and conquer technique while repeatedly counting to four when they take their kids out in public. Follow their adventures at ABeautifulRuckus.com.

BROWNE’S IRISH MARKET 3300 Pennsylvania Ave., Kansas City, MO, 816.561.0030, BrownsIrishMarket.com. The Irish Market opened in Kansas City in 1887, and now the family’s fifth generation carries on the tradition of serving a wide variety of Irish delicacies. Enjoy handmade sandwiches, Irish potato soup, Irish stew, Dublin potato salad and more, as well as Irish souvenirs. On St. Patrick’s Day, Browne’s serves a traditional Irish breakfast starting at 7:00 and lunch specials in the afternoon.

FAVORITE

Irish Restaurants and Markets IN KANSAS CITY

PADDY O’QUIGLEY’S 5317 W. 151st St., Leawood, KS, 913.601.3511. From Irish stew to fish ‘n chips, all your favorite Irish dishes are on the menu at Paddy O’Quigley’s. This neighborhood pub offers a fun atmosphere where they always root for the local teams. St. Paddy’s Day is their biggest celebration of the year.

O’DOWD’S LITTLE DUBLIN

LLYWELYN’S PUB

Country Club Plaza at 4742 Pennsylvania, Kansas City, MO, 816.561.2700, ODowdsLittleDublin.com. O’Dowd’s Little Dublin is known for “the BEST American pub eats and Irish treats in Kansas City!” Enjoy fish and chips, Irish stew, corned beef, Reubens and shepherd’s pie. O’Dowd’s Little Dublin on the Plaza boasts an authentic Irish interior with imported woodwork, creating a pharmacy, library and cigar shop steeped in amazing Irish atmosphere.

Two Metro Locations: 6995 W. 151st St., Overland Park, KS, and 301 SE Douglas St., Lee’s Summit, MO, LlywelynsPub.com. Known for their authentic Celtic food and friendly neighborhood atmosphere, Llywelyn’s is an unforgettable experience. The Overland Park restaurant makes its home in a renovated 100-year-old church with live music on weekends. The Downtown Lee’s Summit location features a patio and live music on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday.

500 Welt St., Weston, MO, 816.640.5235, WestonIrish.com. O’Malley’s serves authentic Irish fare in an authentic Irish-American pub, complete with Irish music. You can choose indoor or patio dining (where you see the famous world’s largest ball of string). The menu includes salads, sandwiches, steaks, soups and, of course, fish and chips.

THE DUBLINER Kansas City Power & Light District, 170 E. 14th St., Kansas City, MO, 816.268.4700, TheDublinerKC.com. The Irish-American pub offers a distinctly Irish feel and delicious pub fare. The downtown location is convenient off the streetcar.

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For tips on how to support new parents once they bring Baby home, log onto KCParent.com.

he NICU experience is made easier through the kindness of others Six years ago when Katie Gonzalez’s son, Matthew, was born at 24 weeks gestation and weighed only 1 pound, 5 ounces, he was the smallest baby in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Overland Park Regional Medical Center. He stayed there for 121 days and endured a number of procedures and complications. “It’s extremely overwhelming and frightening, especially if you expected to take home a healthy baby,” Gonzalez says. “You almost go through a period of grieving. You had one expectation for your unborn child, and you are thrown into a completely different world.” Matthew is now a healthy and active boy, and Gonzalez helps support other parents traveling the same journey through the Circle of Hope NICU Foundation. The foundation provides encouragement for parents of babies

kcparent.com march 2017

You almost go through a period of grieving. You had one expectation for your unborn child, and you are thrown into a completely different world. at Overland Park Regional Medical Center through care packages, gas cards, parent enrichment materials, meals, developmental toys for the babies, activities for siblings and more. “In the midst of the darkness that envelops you in those early days, it’s easy to get lost as a parent,” she says. Members of the community can help parents find their way during such a time. Gonzalez says she felt incredibly supported when her neighbors brought meals and she was able to connect with other NICU parents.

Jennifer Robinson, a former NICU mom who now works for the March of Dimes, says celebrating and congratulating a family at the birth of a baby is always extremely important—even if the baby is in the NICU. She says while it might not have been the ideal birth experience, a wonderful new addition to the family always should receive much excitement. Robinson suggests simply asking families what they need, which could range from helping with other children in the family or bringing meals, to doing laundry, mowing the lawn and the like. The March of Dimes works in conjunction with Saint Luke’s Hospital of Kansas City in many NICU efforts, including helping connect parents who experienced a NICU journey with parents of babies currently in the hospital. This gives parents an understanding shoulder to lean on and an ear to listen. Rebecca Kunden, also with the March of Dimes, says she is always seeking out

volunteer photographers who are willing to donate their services for NICU families. These families are often not able to have professional photographs of their babies because of their circumstances, and this donated service provides them with a precious keepsake. Volunteering to hold babies in the NICU is another way to serve these families. The individualized attention and touch volunteer “cuddlers” give these babies make a significant impact on their future growth and development. When Amy Kline’s daughter, Jordyn, was born at just 24 weeks gestation and only 1 pound, 10 ounces, she felt fear mixed in with the joyful experience of a child’s birth. Little Jordyn was in the NICU at Saint Luke’s Hospital for seven-and-a-half months, required multiple surgeries and began her life very fragile. If life in the NICU weren’t stressful enough for Kline, she was also a single mom needing to work and also had a busy 2-yearold at home. She could take a breather and rest assured knowing when she couldn’t be at the hospital, several volunteers faithfully came to hold and cuddle Jordyn and give her specialized individual attention.

Today, “baby” Jordyn is 5-and-a-half years old, in kindergarten and keeping up with all the kids her own age. Looking back, Kline says between the cuddling, reading, blankets and rocking chairs in the NICU, Jordyn felt like she was a baby even if she was in the hospital. “I had a connection with these nurses, and I had a connection with these cuddlers,” Kline says. “It helped me cope.” Support with housing is also important to families with a fragile baby. Many families travel a great distance to a hospital, and these families often seek out the assistance of the Ronald McDonald house for somewhere to stay. Donations of board books and blankets

are always needed as well. And at Halloween and Christmas, many hospitals like to place miniature costumes on the babies to add some festivity to their first holidays. These costumes are often handmade and make for memorable photographs. All these efforts make a lasting difference in the lives of NICU families. Looking back, Gonzalez says the NICU journey was a tough road to travel, but the experience was a fulfilling one. She was supported in many ways, and that is a large part of why she is able to look back and feel that way. Allison Gibeson is a stay-at-home mom and freelance writer from Lee’s Summit.

how to get involved

Looking for a service project? Here are some practical ways to support NICU families: • Volunteer to hold NICU babies. • Donate blankets or board books to a hospital. • Consider monetary donations that can be used for various NICU programs. • Bring meals to NICU families or offer to babysit their other children. • Volunteer with the Ronald McDonald House.

kcparent.com march 2017

what’s up with dirt?

get it. We want our children to be clean and free of germs and germy places. If you’re like me, the play places at local restaurants give you the heebie-jeebies because it’s like you can literally SEE all the germs. Yes, I am that mom with a wipe, all but chasing my children around after they are done playing, just so I can sanitize them! In today’s society, we are hyper-focused on steering clear of germs and bacteria. We use

and overuse hand sanitizer, anti-bacterial soaps and wipes, shopping cart wipes, etc. With all the illnesses and diseases floating around out there, it’s no wonder! But are we actually doing more harm than good for our children and families? The answer to that is, potentially, yes. While time spent outdoors is on the decline, time spent indoors involved in sedentary activities is increasing, when it should

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be exactly the opposite. According to a recent report from the National Wildlife Federation, letting kids play in the dirt not only allows them freely to explore their surroundings, burn off energy, gain strength and gross motor skills, but actually can make children healthier. Say what?! Consider this: When children spend time outdoors playing in the dirt, they are exposed to various bacteria, viruses and microbes that are essential to our bodies and can lead ultimately to a stronger, healthier immune system. While living in an ultraclean environment sounds great and beneficial, it actually can cause your child to develop allergies, asthma and other chronic disorders. In Dr. Maya Shetreat-Klein’s new book Healthy Food, Healthy Gut, Happy Child, she advocates a “lifestyle centered around contact with the microbes present in the soil.” She says, “In one teaspoon of soil there are as many microbes as there are people in the planet. That is an incredibly biodiverse experience for our brains, our immune systems, our guts.” She goes on to boldly state, “Parents today are keeping

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their children away from the things that are critical to their health. We are sanitizing their lives with cleaning products, pesticides and antibiotics.” An incredibly fascinating article in the Wall Street Journal titled “Get Your Children Good and Dirty” states some alarming information. “Our anti-microbe mission has been accompanied by an explosion in the prevalence of chronic noninfectious diseases and disorders. Diabetes, allergies, asthma, inflammatory bowel diseases, autoimmune diseases, autism, obesity and certain types of cancer are at an all-time high. The incidence of some of these disorders is doubling every 10 years, and they are starting to appear sooner in life, often in childhood.” While some of these do have a genetic component, that alone cannot explain the increased rates we are now seeing in these and other conditions. While keeping healthy is a delicate balance as a family, we can try a few, very simple ideas for change. In a WebMD article, Thom McDade, PhD, associate professor and director of the Laboratory for

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Human Biology Research at Northwestern University, says, “I’d like to see a recalibration toward common sense. You don’t have to wash or sanitize everything.” Parents can increase their children’s time spent outdoors, as well as encourage “dirty” play. Let your children play with bugs, dig in the dirt, mud or sand, and resist the urge to tell your children it’s “yucky” or “dirty.” Besides, it’s fun! Now, I have to admit, my husband jokingly called me a germophobe after we had our first child. I had sanitizing wipes with me all the time…and I used them all the time! However, with each subsequent child (we now have three), I have become less and less concerned. I still sanitize my children’s hands sometimes (reference paragraph one!) and I still don’t prefer for my children to lick the floor, eat out of the trashcan or chew on the shopping cart handle. But, if they do, I know they are going to survive and it might just give their immune system a healthy boost! So here’s your challenge: This spring when you have a picnic outdoors with your

children, resist the overwhelming urge to clean your children’s hands before they eat. Are you in? I’m in! Good luck! Julie Collett writes from her home in Overland Park, where she tries not to oversanitize but let the healthy germs take over! As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns.

Great places to get dirty: n

The park. Try Franklin or Roe Park. n

Well Wilderness Therapeutic Nature Center n

Hike It Baby Kansas City

Ernie Miller or Lakeside Nature Center n

Overland Park Arboretum

Prairie Park Nature Center

Burr Oak Woods

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party guide (Family Features)

Set a theme. Building your

celebration around a theme that reflects your child brings an added touch of fun and excitement. Popular options include a favorite color, sport, activity or character. While the Internet offers a mind-boggling array of ideas for crafting the perfect theme, there also are a variety of party-ready options for busy moms with limited time.

5 simple tips FOR BIRTHDAY BASH SUCCESS

Amp up the activity. Create opportunities for all the little partygoers to participate in the festivities with interactive games that

If your party menu calls for more than cake and ice cream, you can take advantage of another avenue to carry through your theme. A little creativity, some clever monikers and a few basic modifications can quickly transform everyday snacks into festive fun. For example, a dinosaur party might feature Brontosaurus Burgers and T-Rex Trail Mix.

Decorate the guests. There’s no reason to stop with streamers and balloons. Integrate your guests into the decor with fun activities that bring your theme to life. Face paint, washable tattoos or stamps let little guests take an active role in the party and express a little creativity of their own.

Add some fancy to the food.

tie back to the theme of the party. Old-school favorites like pin-the-tail on the donkey can be updated to reflect today’s popular characters; makeyour-own slime or clay is the perfect project for a group of mad scientists; or a treasure hunt can be adapted to nearly any theme.

Offer a fond farewell. No birthday party is complete without treats to send partygoers home happy. However, goodie bags need not be costly or elaborate. An inexpensive item such as bubbles or sidewalk chalk tied in theme-colored ribbon is a fun choice for many ages. When it comes to candy, favorite Hershey’s products – from Kit Kat Miniatures to Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups Miniatures to iconic Kisses chocolates – are now available in birthday-themed designs for a sweet ending to any celebration.

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TWO GREAT

Staying in KC for spring break? Visit KCParent.com for terrific tips! You’ll find a comprehensive guide for everything from camps and classes to staycation ideas.

spring break trips from kc Spring break is a great chance

for a family getaway. Sometimes it’s nice just to slip away for a few days and take in some sights. These are two of our favorites for a simple and fun weekend getaway—and both sneak in a little education too! National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK

klahoma is one of our friendliest border states, making a great weekend or spring break getaway for affordable family fun.

Oklahoma City’s Must-See Attractions for Families: Where to Go for Adventure: • Riversport Adventures in the Oklahoma Boathouse District (800 Riversport Dr., Oklahoma City, OK, 405.552.4040). Our family rates this as one of the coolest attractions we’ve ever experienced. Oklahoma, a neighboring land-locked state, has created a new attraction in their Boathouse District that is a state-of-the-art outdoor adventure. The adventure park is home to amazing whitewater rafting and kayaking courses. They also offer adventure courses, zip lines, slides and playgrounds. The SandRidge Sky Trail is our family’s favorite and is the tallest adventure course of its kind in the world. The structure is 80 feet tall and offers six levels of challenges. Adventurers are harnessed into a seat and climb from one level to the next, daring to try various rope and balance beam challenges. Once you reach the top, you may exit via zip line, a 72-foot Sky Slide or an 80-foot Rumble Drop,

kcparent.com march 2017

a free-fall jump experience! The park also features children’s attractions, gigantic slides and climbing walls. Tip: For great tips on planning your trip, visit RiverSportOKC.org/adventures.

Where to Go for Only-in-Oklahoma Experiences: • National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum (1700 NE 63rd St., Oklahoma City, OK, 405.478.2250). There is no better place to learn about the state’s cowboy history than this museum. The huge complex features Western art galleries, Native American history exhibits and exhibits paying homage to cowboy history and entertainment, including film and rodeo celebrities. Children especially enjoy Prosperity Junction, a replica Old West town that allows families to explore old buildings and listen to dialogue depicting life for early Oklahomans. Plan to spend three to five hours exploring the museum. • Museum of Osteology (10301 S. Sunnylane Rd., Oklahoma City, OK, 405.814.0006). Oklahoma City is home to the only museum of osteology (the study of bones and skeletons) in the world. Displaying more than 350 skeletons of animals from all over the world,

Science Museum Oklahoma

this museum is fascinating. Visitors are provided with an I Spy or trivia game to play as they go through the exhibit. From the smallest birds and mammals to a 40-foot humpback whale skeleton, exhibits showcase not only the skeletons of various species but also explain the animals’ anatomy and physiology.

Where to Take the Kids: • Science Museum Oklahoma (2020 Remington Pl., Oklahoma City, OK, 405.602.6664). Our family makes it a point to visit hands-on museums whenever we travel, but this science museum was hands-down one of the best we’ve ever seen. The museum features a variety of hands-on exhibits, many of which are truly unique. We started in CurioCity, a 20,000-square-foot exhibit with

various neighborhoods where children learn through play. The girls loved the giant handson playground and whimsical treehouse play area. We spent four hours, and that was not enough! The Science Floor is a huge open gallery with hundreds of hands-on exhibits. My favorite was learning to drive (included with admission) on their Segway Course. From weather exhibits, to the human body, space exploration, to physics, intriguing options let you easily spend hours exploring.

Where to Go for a Ride:

Tip: Science City Kansas City members receive free or discounted admission to this partnering museum.

• Oklahoma Railway Museum (3400 NE Grand Blvd., Oklahoma City, OK, 405.424.8222). My husband loves

ust a little more than three hours away, Omaha is the perfect weekend getaway for Kansas City families. Search “Omaha” on KCParent.com for even more tips for this trip!

Where to Take the Kids: • Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo (3701 S. 10th St., Omaha, NE, 402.733.8400) is reason enough to visit Omaha. Walk on the wild side in the Lied Jungle and marvel at the Scott Aquarium with a 70-foot-long underwater walk-through tunnel with sharks, stingrays and ocean life. Both Bear Canyon, home to four different types of bears, and a butterfly garden thrilled our girls. The aquarium, desert exhibit and prairie dogs are additional favorites. Be sure to catch zookeeper chats and shows to add to your experience. All of the exhibits at the Henry Doorly Zoo are extremely well done. Tip: KC Zoo FOTZ members get 50 percent off admission! You may bring a picnic (no glass bottles or alcohol).

• Bricktown Water Taxi (111 S. Mickey Mantle Dr., Oklahoma City, OK, 405. 234.8263). Bricktown is Oklahoma City’s thriving downtown district with a variety of restaurants and entertainment options. The centerpiece of the district is a canal, reminiscent of San Antonio, where you can enoy water taxi rides. The rides include a tour of the area with a bit of history and humor.

trains—and that means we visit every train museum or attraction we can when we travel. What I love most about these attractions is that they’re typically operated by enthusiastic and caring volunteers, and this museum lived up to my hopes for friendliness and enthusiasm—and then some! Many train rides are inaccessible to wheelchairs because of the antique nature of the trains, but this museum is accessible! We enjoyed a 45-minute round trip train ride and a tour of the museum. The collection is vast, with freight cars, passenger cars and a steam engine.

OMAHA,NE NE OMAHA, • Omaha Children’s Museum (500 S. 20th St., Omaha, NE, 402.342.6164). The target age for this museum is preschool and early elementary, and all exhibits are handson, interactive fun. The Super Gravitron, a massive ball machine with pneumatic, hydraulic and mechanical sections is the hands-down favorite. This unbelievable exhibit is a blast for all ages! We also enjoyed many of the free workshops and programs. We attended a science workshop on weather, and the kids participated in experiments to make lightning, a tornado in a bottle, clouds and even watched fake snow. The museum offers concerts, short plays and workshops throughout the day (included with admission) and these really enhanced our visit.

hundreds of aircraft, from mammoth airplanes to smaller single-pilot aircraft. They offer free two-hour tours of the museum with knowledgeable tour guides who share the history of the various aircraft throughout the museum. This tour, extremely interesting and educational, truly completed the visit to the museum. • Lauritzen Gardens (100 Bancroft St., Omaha, NE, 402.346.4002) is a 100-acre botanical garden with much to explore, including a railroad garden. While you’re

Where to Go for an Only-inOmaha Experience: • Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum (28210 W. Park Hwy., Ashland, NE, 402.944.3100). This museum houses Henry Doorly Zoo

there, don’t miss Kenefick Park. Two of the great locomotives sit at the southwest point of the property: the Centennial No. 6900, the largest and most powerful diesel-electric locomotive ever built, and Big Boy No. 4023, the world’s largest steam locomotive.

Omaha Children’s Museum

Kristina Light enjoys planning weekend getaways for her family of six. kcparent.com march 2017

march

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

CALENDAR

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

kcparent.com march 2017

Superhero Weekend at the Kansas City Zoo

shop

watch

listen

meet

hike

Get ready for spring with the Spring Open House March 3-5, Downtown Leeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Summit. Merchants introduce new items for spring. DowntownLS.org

See the play La Culebra on March 11 at the Bodker Black Box Theatre in Carlsen Center for free. The play tells the story of ancient Aztec culture. JCCC.edu/theseries

Date Night! Enjoy Decades Rewind on March 11 at the Folly Theater. Concert features more than 60 songs blended into unique medleys from the 60s, 70s and 80s. FollyTheater.org

Say hello to your favorite superheroes at Superhero Weekend on March 18 & 19 at the Kansas City Zoo. Get your picture taken with superheroes and more. KansasCityZoo.org

Enjoy an outdoor hike on March 25 at the Candlelight Night Hike at Martha LaFite Nature Sanctuary. Turn off your lights for a candlelight night hike. 816.781.8598

1 Wednesday The Cat Came Back 10:00, Mesner Puppet Studio. A wacky tale based on the popular folk song by Fred Penner. MesnerPuppets.org Curious George 10:00, H & R Block City Stage. A comical dramatization of that loveable monkey based on early Curious George books. $11. TYA.org Animal Tales 10:30, Ernie Miller Nature Center. A 30-minute program that includes stories, songs and a visit from an animal friend. Today’s theme: animal babies. $2. 913.764.7759 Open Gym Noon, Integrity Gymnastics. A great time to practice, get familiar with the gym and for kids to release energy. $6. IntegrityOP.com Reading Boosters 4:45, MCPL (North Oak). Bring kids kindergarten through third grade to the library for one-on-one reading practice. Free. MyMCPL.org

2 Thursday Happy Birthday, Dr Seuss! Take time to read some of your favorite Dr Seuss stories today. Search “Seuss” on KCParent.com for Seussian inspiration!

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

Spring Open House Thru Sunday, Downtown Lee’s Summit. Merchants introduce new items for spring, and customers can enter to win a shopping spree! DowntownLS.org

Just Between Friends Sale Thru Sunday, SW Corner of SM Parkway and Nieman. Shop for great spring fashions at terrific savings! JBFSale.com

Claws 10:00, Sea Life Aquarium. Meet the armored division of the marine world in this new exhibit. Kids go free with code PARENT. 816.471.4386

Over the Rainbow: Toys from the Land of Oz Thru Aug, National Museum of Toys and Miniatures. Explore all things Oz through playthings, books, costumes and more. 816.235.3000

Toddler Town 10:00, Roger T Sermon Center. Kids can run and play at the indoor play area for ages 5 and under. $1/child. ci.Independence.mo.us

Open Play 10:00, Jump City. Bring the kids to Jump City—where excitement and laughs are found daily! $8/child; parents are free. JumpCityKC.com Manifest Destiny 2:00, Nat’l Frontier Trails Museum. Learn about one of the most powerful concepts in American history during a 30-minute guided tour. 816.325.7575

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

Paint Me a Story 10:30, Paint, Glaze & Fire. Paint a pottery piece that goes along with a favorite story. Snack included. $13-$15. Pre-reg at 913.661.2529. First Fridays 5:00, Crossroads Art District. Galleries and shops remain open the first Friday of each month. KCCrossroads.org Major League Improv 7:30, ComedyCity. A comedy sporting event with everything decided upon by the audience. $9-$13. 816.842.2744 The Triplets of Belleville 8:00, Polsky Theatre. Enjoy an animated film with live accompaniment by Le Terrible Orchestre de Belleville. JCCC.edu/theseries

SPRING BREAK FUN! WIZARD OF OZ PUPPET SHOW / MARCH 15, 17, AND 18 / 1-2PM See Oz come to life in a 35-minute performance that is fun for the entire family. Included with $5 museum admission. Reservations required, call 816.235.8006.

DARLING DAGUERREOTYPES / MARCH 22 AND 24 / 1-4PM Back by popular demand, get your snapshot taken and turned into a faux daguerreotype. Included with $5 museum admission.

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kcparent.com march 2017

The Cat Came Back Thru March 12, Mesner Puppet Studio. A wacky tale based on the popular folk song by Fred Penner. MesnerPuppets.org

4 Saturday Character Breakfast 8:30, Spring Hill Middle School. Breakfast at Hogwarts! Wear your house colors or come as your favorite witch or wizard. $5-$8. SpringHillRec.org

Bird Banding 10:00, Burroughs Audubon Nature Center. See winter songbirds up close and personal. A wonderful nature activity for families! Free. Burroughs.org My Name is Junie B Jones 10:00, MCPL (Oak Grove). Let your imagination and your love of reading soar with this Junie B Jones adventure. Pre-reg at MyMCPL.org.

Spring Holiday Dress Up Event 10:00, Children’s Orchard (Olathe). All the best looks for the spring holidays at your favorite prices! ChildrensOrchard.com Midwest Christian Education Expo 10:00, Colonial Presbyterian Church. Visit with 80 colleges, private K-12 schools and homeschooling resources. Free. 816.524.4522 Girl Scouts Cookie Construction Thru March 25, Crown Center Shops. See one-of-a-kind displays made entirely of empty Girl Scout cookie boxes. 816.274.8444 Blue Springs Art League Show Today & tomorrow, Vesper Hall. Show includes displays of photography, mixed media, drawing, sculptures and more. Free. 816.228.0238

Hands-On History 11:00, National World War I Museum and Memorial. History is brought to life. Handle Great War artifacts. TheWorldWar. org Open Gym 12:30, Elite Gymnastics & Aquatics. Run, jump and play in the foam pit, rope swings and more. EliteGymSwim.com Family Game Night 6:30, Kick Comedy Theater. A show full of “Whose Line”-style improve games. Fun for the entire family! $5-$10. KansasCityComedy.com

Every Friday | 7 PM

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kcparent.com march 2017

5 Sunday art + family = FUN 1:00, Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Join us every Saturday and Sunday for free activities for all ages! 816.751.1278 No Talking 2:00, the Coterie Theatre. It’s boys vs girls when the most talkative fifth graders have a contest to see who can talk the least. TheCoterie.org

Celebrate Recovery is a Biblical and balanced program to help people overcome their hurts, habits and hang-ups. Based on the words of Jesus, this recovery program is unique, and effective in helping people change.

Around the World in 80 Days 2:00, Kauffman Center. See the classic brought to life through storytelling, puppetry and symphonic favorites. KCSymphony.org

6 Monday Gym for Me 9:00, Lenexa Community Center. Preschool kids can play with others while running, riding and bouncing in our open play. $1. 913.477.7100 Under the Sea Adventure 10:00, Crown Center. Plunge into a fun, creative exploration of the deep blue sea. Free. CrownCenter.com Jazz on the Square 5:30, Corbin Theatre (Liberty). Enjoy live jazz. The music will keep your toes tapping, and the ballads will warm your heart! CorbinTheatre.org

7 Tuesday Jumperoo 9:00, Urban Air Trampoline Park. A special time for those 5 and under to enjoy access to the playground and trampoline attractions. $10/child. 913.298.0626

Shawnee

Overland Park

MARCH 2-5

MARCH 16-19

Thur & Fri 9am-8pm | Sat 9am-9pm Sun 9am-5pm • 50% oﬀ* Sale!

SW corner of Shawnee Mission Pkwy & Nieman

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Preschool Indoor Playground 9:30, Irene B French Community Center. Kids, drive your favorite vehicle, jump in the bounce house or pretend in the kitchen. $2. 913.322.5550 Rainbow Fish 9:45, Folly Theater. Based on the bestselling book, a delightful musical about the value of true friendship. $5. FollyTheater.org Fabulous Frogs 1:00, Martha Lafite Nature Sanctuary. Meet some amphibious friends, take a hike to listen to their calls, and make a craft! 816.781.8598

not valid for Prime Time Pre-Sale Shopping

Admission $2 first day, all other days free! Shoppers - we prefer cash but also accept Visa, Mastercard, Discover and Debit Cards

North America’s Leading Children’s & Maternity Consignment Sales Event.™

* Many items reduced, items with a star on their tag remain full price.

Heritage Christian Academy NOW LING ENROL ! K-12

Family Feast Day Pizza Shoppe. Get a single topping King pizza, two Shoppe house salads and an order of garlic cheese bread for only $18.99. PizzaShoppe.com Prenatal Power Class 7:00, EverFit (Shawnee). A workout designed just for expectant moms. Tone and strengthen your body through pregnancy. 913.461.3374

8 Wednesday Toddle Time 9:00, Matt Ross Community Center. Open playtime with an array of toys, including blocks, balls and puzzles. $1-$2. 913.895.6350 Little Acorns 10:00 & 1:00, Burr Oak Woods Nature Center. Discover the world of raccoons through hands-on exploration. Pre-reg at 816.228.3766.

ELEMENTARY OPEN HOUSES March 9 and April 6 - 9-11 am

Tour the Campus Meet with HCA Parents/Administration Visit Classes EAST CAMPUS – ELEMENTARY/CENTRAL OFFICE 9333 W 159th St., Overland Park, KS 66221, 913.681.7622 WEST CAMPUS – JUNIOR/SENIOR HIGH 16000 Blackbob Rd., Olathe, KS 66062, 913.782.3262

VISIT HCAKC.ORG FOR MORE INFORMATION Campus tours available on request.

Christ-centered academic excellence.

kcparent.com march 2017

Cuisine & Confessions March 12, 2:00, Yardley Hall. Seven Fingers of the Hand presents a show with acrobatics, music and more. JCCC.edu/theseries

Disney on Ice March 29-April 2, Sprint Center. Follow your heart to Disney on Ice! Purchase your tickets early and save $5 with code “Olaf.” AXS.com

The Cat Came Back 10:00, Mesner Puppet Studio. A wacky tale based on the popular folk song by Fred Penner. MesnerPuppets.org

KC Auto Show 5:00, Bartle Hall. Five hundred new vehicles all in one place. Visit the Kids Corner for bounce houses, games, crafts and more. $6-$11. KCAutoShow.com

KC Magic Man 6:30, MCPL (Grandview). Be prepared to be amazed by magical feats using cards, coins, cups and more. Pre-reg at MyMCPL.org.

9 Thursday

The Wizard of Oz Thru Sunday, Goppert Theatre (Avilia). A live, Broadway-style musical, performed entirely by CYT students. CYTKC.org

Elementary Open House 9:00, Heritage Christian Academy. Tour the campus, meet with current parents and administration and visit classes. HCAKC.org Open Gym 9:00, Indian Creek Community Church (Olathe). A time for kids 6 and under to play, run, kick, ride and jump. Free. IndianCreek.org Toddler Time 9:30, Blue Springs Fieldhouse. Kids can play on slides, scooters and more. We set up the equipment, and the kids have the fun! $2-$3. BlueSpringsGov.com

kcparent.com march 2017

10 Friday

Trout Stocking 2:30 (Kill Creek Park) & 3:45 (SM Park). Start your spring break by watching as the lakes are filled with rainbow trout. Free. 913.831.335

KCPT Kids Writers Contest Thru March 31. Calling all young authors and illustrators! Kindergarten through third-graders are invited to submit their stories. KCPT.org

Stuffed Animal Sleepover 5:00, Olathe Indian Creek Library. Wear your pajamas and bring a stuffed friend for stories and fun. 913.971.6874

Story Time 11:00, Reader’s World (Lee’s Summit). Join us for stories, a snack and a craft. Free; all ages welcome! 816.246.7323

Second Friday Art Crawl 5:00, Downtown Excelsior Springs. Enjoy feature artists, music, dining and shopping. 816.630.6161

Middle School Teen Night 7:00, Paradise Park. For only $15 get a $10 fun card, a personal pizza and a try at the rock wall. DJ, ping pong tables and more. Paradise-Park.com DakhaBrakha Ukrainian Folkdrone 8:00, Polsky Theatre. A world music quartet from Kiev that mixes everything from punk-pop to traditional songs. JCCC.edu/theseries Ben Folds with the Kansas City Symphony 8:00, Kauffman Center. Ben Folds returns to join forces with the Kansas City Symphony. KCSymphony.org

11 Saturday Zootastik Learning Fest 10:00, Kansas City Zoo. Learn how pollinators are important to us and to many of the foods we love to eat. Activities in zoo lobby. KansasCityZoo.org Early Explorations 10:00 or 2:00, Nerman Museum. Learn about art that shows natural places and then create a layered landscape painting. $15. Pre-reg at NermanMuseum.org.

45th & Oak | nelson-atkins.org

SUNDAY, APRIL 9

10 a.m.–4 p.m.

Diamonds & Pearls 10:30, Bingham-Waggoner Estate. Champagne brunch and fashion show to get ready for spring. $30. Pre-reg at 816.461.3491.

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St. Patrick’s Day Parade March 17, 11:00. The parade has become Kansas City’s largest single-day civic event, as well as one of the largest St. Patrick’s Day parades in the nation. KCIrishParade.com

La Culebra Noon & 3:00, Bodker Black Box Theatre in Carlsen Center. Children’s play that tells an ancient story from Aztec culture. Free.

Emerald Isle St Patrick’s Day Parade Noon, Downtown Lee’s Summit. Annual parade featuring floats, Irish dancers, musicians and more. DowntownLS.org

Second Saturdays 4:00, Downtown Weston. Stroll into unique gift shops and galleries for late-night shopping and in-store specials. WestonMO.com

Write Something Delicious 1:00, Jo Co Library (Antioch). A fun, interactive program that explores the delicious history, science and math of cookies! Pre-reg at 913.826.4600.

St Patrick’s Day Parade 5:00, Downtown Belton. Celebrate St Patrick’s Day with this fun annual parade! Belton.org

Saturday Feeder 2:00, Cedar Cove. During the winter, Cedar Cove hosts public feedings of the cats, weather permitting. $5-$7. SaveOurSiberians.org Brookside St Patrick’s Day Warm-Up Parade 2:00, Brookside. Family fun event! Parade starts at 65th & Wornall. BrooksideKC.org

Supporting Sponsor

Full Moon Hike7:30, George Owens Nature Park. Enjoy a guided hike through the park during the Crow Moon (rises at 5:38). Must prereg at 816.325.7115.

12 Sunday Daylight Saving Time

Farmers Market 7:00, the City Market. The market is open year-round and offers a variety of fresh produce, meat, specialty groceries and more. TheCityMarket.org Beginning Archery 9:00, Lake City Range. Learn fundamentals of shooting archery: proper foot position, draw techniques and more. Ages 11-17. Pre-reg at 816.249.3194. St Patrick’s Day Parade 1:00, Downtown Shawnee. Cheer for all the great parade entries and enjoy the variety of activities. CityOfShawnee.org

Dancers: Tempe Ostergren and Lamin Pereira dos Santos. Photography: Kenny Johnson.

Snake Saturday Festival and Parade 11:00, 14th & Swift (NKC). Children’s area with barrel train, tattoos, entertainment and more! SnakeSaturday.com

TICKETS ON SALE AT KCBALLET.ORG OR CALL 816.931.8993 58

kcparent.com march 2017

Preschool Story Time 1:30, Nelson-Atkins Museum. Story time in Noguchi Court presented by librarians from the Kansas City Public Library. Free. Nelson-Atkins.org

No School Hangout 7:30, SoPro Gaming. Looking for activities for days off school? SoPro Gaming opens early! $25 plus $5 for lunch. SoProGaming.com

Family Feast Day Pizza Shoppe. Get a single topping King pizza, two Shoppe house salads and an order of garlic cheese bread for only $18.99. PizzaShoppe.com

Irishpalooza 2:00 Martin City Business District. Enjoy a St Patrick’s Day festival and parade in Martin City! Irishpalooza.com

Spring Fling Fun 10:30, Ernie Miller Nature Center. Hear nature stories and see live animals. Stay to hike the trails. $3. 913.764.7759

Pi Day 2:45, Science City. Visit Science City to celebrate Pi Day with Pi Day partner Tippin’s. UnionStation.org/ScienceCity

Cuisine & Confessions 2:00, Yardley Hall. Seven Fingers of the Hand presents a show with acrobatics, music and more. JCCC.edu/theseries

14 Tuesday

15 Wednesday

Jumperoo 9:00, Urban Air Trampoline Park. A special time for those 5 and under to enjoy access to the playground and trampoline attractions. $10/child. 913.298.0626

Toddle Time 9:00, Matt Ross Community Center. Open playtime with an array of toys, including blocks, balls and puzzles. $1-$2. 913.895.6350

Are Snakes Slimy? 10:00, Burr Oak Woods Nature Center. Are snakes slimy? Do they hiss? Play, sing and experience snakes in a fun way. Pre-reg at 816.228.3766.

Under the Sea Adventure 10:00, Crown Center. Plunge into a fun, creative exploration of the deep blue sea. Free. CrownCenter.com

13 Monday Pompeii: The Exhibition Thru April, Union Station. Exhibit examines lives of the residents of Pompeii before and after the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. UnionStation.org Farming Fun with Preschoolers 10:00, Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop. Step back in time with stories, hands-on activities and animals. Four-week class. Mahaffie.org Out-of-Library Story Time 10:15, Mill Creek Activity Center. Storytellers offer books, stories, songs and more for preschoolers. Free. 913.826.2950

Story Time 10:30, Jump City. Kids enjoy story time and then stay for unlimited playtime. $5. JumpCityKC.com Creative Story Time 11:00, Ceramic Café. Hear a story, create a pottery piece and enjoy a simple snack. 913.383.0222

Cookie Decorating 1:30, Olathe Downtown Library. Stop by to decorate a sweet treat. All supplies provided. 913.971.6874 Decades Rewind 7:30, Folly Theater. Date night! Concert features more than 60 songs blended into unique medleys from the 60s, 70s and 80s. FollyTheater.org

NOW OPEN!

PARENT

kcparent.com march 2017

march by the numbers

1940 The first year Kansas City hosted college basketball championships at Municipal Auditorium, now celebrated annually as March Madness.

1820 On March 3 of this year, the Missouri Compromise passed, allowing Missouri to join the United States.

On this date, a crescent moon will make a triangle with Mercury and Mars, visible in the night sky.

On this date in 1933, the board game Monopoly was invented. Now, many versions, including Kansas City-Opoly and games designed for all your favorite teams, are popular.

Date of National Potato Chip Day. Celebrate with Guyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Potato Chips, made in the Kansas City area for 79 years.

1961 On March 29 of this year, KCPT TV channel 19 (PBS) in Kansas City, MO, began broadcasting.

Date in March 1950 that Silly Putty was invented.

Date of National Spinach Day. Lenexa, KS, has been famous for their superior spinach since the 1930s and they celebrate that heritage every year with a Spinach Festival in the fall.

1841 On March 3 of this year, William Rockhill Nelson, founder of The Kansas City Star and patron of the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, was born.

11:21 Hours of daylight on March 1. The amount increases throughout the month to 12:39 hours of daylight on March 31.

16 Thursday

18 Saturday

19 Sunday

Just Between Friends Sale Thru Sunday, Ritz Charles. Get ready for spring and summer with selections from maternity through teens. JBFSale.com

Superhero Weekend Today & tomorrow, Kansas City Zoo. Get your picture taken with superheroes throughout the weekend. KansasCityZoo.org

Girl Scouts Cookie Construction Thru March 25, Crown Center Shops. See one-of-a-kind displays made entirely of empty Girl Scout cookie boxes. 816.274.8444

Over the Rainbow: Toys from Land of Oz Thru Aug, National Museum of Toys and Miniatures. Explore all things Oz through playthings, books, costumes and more. 816.235.3000 GeoArboretum 10:00, Overland Park Arboretum. Classroom presentation followed by a search for two geocaches. Pre-reg at 913.685.3604. Curious George 10:00, H & R Block City Stage. A comical dramatization of that loveable monkey based on early Curious George books. $11. TYA.org Open Gym Noon, Integrity Gymnastics. A great time to practice, get familiar with the gym and for kids to release energy. $6. IntegrityOP.com

17 Friday

Kansas City Pet Expo Today & tomorrow, Hale Arena. Tons of pet-friendly exhibitors and rescues, live demos and more. KansasCityPetExpo.com Scavenger Saturdays 10:00, Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art. Follow the clues on this “ART-tastic” adventure! 816.753.5784 Nature Nuts Story Time 10:00, 11:00 or 1:00, Anita B Gorman Discovery Center. Join volunteer naturalists for stories and a hands-on nature activity. 816.759.7300 Space Out Saturday 10:00, Cosmosphere. Family day at the Cosmosphere with free programming for kids–from little tykes to middle schoolers. Cosmo.org

St Patrick’s Day

Fairytale Ball 10:30, Hilton Kansas City. Party with princesses! Stories, songs, portrait station, candy buffet, tiara decorating and more. PrettyPrincessPartiesMN.com

Paint Me a Story 10:30, Paint, Glaze & Fire. Paint a pottery piece that goes along with a favorite story. Snack included. $13-$15. Pre-reg at 913.661.2529.

Story Time: The Blessing Cup 11:00, National World War I Museum and Memorial. Hear a family-friendly story. Pre-reg at TheWorldWar.org.

St Patrick’s Day Parade 11:00. The parade has become Kansas City’s largest single-day civic event, as well as one of the largest St Patrick’s Day parades in the nation. KCIrishParade.com Top of the Mornin’ 11:00, MCPL (North Oak). Throw on a bit of green and come listen to some Irish folklore and funny tales told in dialect. Pre-reg at MyMcpl.org. Leavenworth St Patrick’s Day Parade Noon, 4th & Walnut. Celebrate all things Irish with the parade. LVIrish.com Wizard of Oz Puppet Show 1:00, National Museum of Toys and Miniatures. A fun, 35-minute puppet performance of the popular movie. Pre-reg at 816.235.8005.

Hike at Mt Marty Park 10:00, Mt Marty Park (KCKS). Meet at the Rosedale Arch for a hike, rain, snow or shine! LetsGoKC.org Open Gym 12:30, Elite Gymnastics & Aquatics. Run, jump and play in the foam pit, rope swings and more. EliteGymSwim.com African-Americans in the West 1:00, Nat’l Frontier Trails Museum. Using a special brochure, discover how African-Americans contributed to settling the West. 816.325.7575 No Talking 2:00, the Coterie Theatre. It’s boys vs girls when the most talkative fifth graders have a contest to see who can talk the least. TheCoterie.org

St Patrick’s Day Parade 1:00, South Park (Lawrence). A fun, old-fashioned St Patrick’s Day parade. LawrenceStPatricksDayParade.com

Family Game Night 6:30, Kick Comedy Theater. A show full of “Whose Line”-style improve games. Fun for the entire family! $5-$10. KansasCityComedy.com

Home Show Thru Sunday, KC Convention Center. Visit the home show for the latest in ideas and inspiration for your home. KCHBA.org

Toughest Monster Truck Tour 6:30, Silverstein Eye Centers Arena. See several of the nation’s toughest trucks! SilversteinEyeCentersArena.com

Third Friday Art Walk 5:30, Englewood Station Arts District. Tour the art galleries. View live performances and artists on the sidewalks in front of shops. EnglewoodStation.com

Major League Improv 7:30, ComedyCity. A comedy sporting event with everything decided upon by the audience. $9-$13. 816.842.2744

Nature Hike Series 1:00, Powell Gardens. Enjoy the blossoming of a new season! Experience nature as it comes alive before your eyes. Prereg at 816.697.2600 x209. Children’s Literature Festival Thru Tuesday, University of Central Missouri. Hear nationally recognized children’s authors and illustrators speak. $8-$15. 660.543.4306 Jazz 100 7:00, Polsky Theatre. Part of Winterlude, a series of concerts featuring local and international jazz and world music performers. JCCC.edu/theseries

20 Monday Gym for Me 9:00, Lenexa Community Center. Preschool kids can play with others while running, riding and bouncing in our open play. $1. 913.477.7100 Disney on Ice March 29-April 2, Sprint Center. Follow your heart to Disney on Ice! Purchase your tickets early and save $5 with code “Olaf.” AXS.com Claws 10:00, Sea Life Aquarium. Meet the armored division of the marine world in this new exhibit. Kids go free with code PARENT. 816.471.4386 Toddler Town 10:00, Roger T Sermon Center. Kids can run and play at the indoor play area for ages 5 and under. $1/child. ci.Independence.mo.us Out-of-Library Story Time 10:15, Mill Creek Activity Center. Storytellers offer books, stories, songs and more for preschoolers. Free. 913.826.2950

21 Tuesday Isla Easter Bondurant Studios. Book early for darling spring photo session with chicks and bunnies. 913.905.9394 Creative Story Time 11:00, Ceramic Café. Read a book and then paint a ceramic item that goes along with the story. Finish with a snack. $9.50. CeramicCafeKC.com Homework Help 4:00, Jo Co Library (Central Resource). Homework coaches help students work on a specific project or use library resources. JoCoLibrary.org kcparent.com march 2017

Disney on Ice March 29-April 2, Sprint Center. Follow your heart to Disney on Ice! Swim with Dory and Hank, see the Disney princesses and more. Save $5 with code “Olaf.” AXS.com

22 Wednesday

Curious George 10:00 & Noon, H & R Block City Stage. A comical dramatization of that loveable monkey based on early Curious George books. $11. TYA.org

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

The Tempest 7:30, Polsky Theatre. Partnering with the Heart of America Shakespeare Festival for a script-in-hand performance. JCCC.edu/theseries

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

24 Friday

Preparatory Course 5:30, Hoffman International. Class meets for 10 weeks and covers visual poise, skin and hair care, public speaking and more. Girls 13+. 913.642.1060

Fish Tales 9:30, Stagecoach Park. Enjoy stories, songs and play. After, stay for special swim time (add’l fee). 913.971.8563 Claws 10:00, Sea Life Aquarium. Meet the armored division of the marine world in this new exhibit. Kids go free with code PARENT. 816.471.4386

23 Thursday

Campus Visit Day 1:30. Summit Christian Academy. Visit the campus to see all we have to offer your student. RSVP to 816.525.1480. 4th Friday Art Walk 5:00, Downtown Lee’s Summit. Variety of activities include artist receptions, artist street theater, yoga in the streets and more. DowtownLS.org

SAVE $5 on Tick

KCPT Kids Writers Contest Thru March 31. Calling all young authors and illustrators! Kindergarten through third-graders are invited to submit their stories. KCPT.org

Darling Daguerrotypes 1:00, National Museum of Toys and Miniatures. Get your photo taken and turned into a daguerreotype. 816. 235.8000

New Moon Walk 6:00, Overland Park Arboretum. Walk the trails and listen for owls. See live owls close up in the visitor center. 913.685.3604

Use offer code: OLAF • Expires: 04/0

Restrictions and exclusions may apply. No double discounts. Subject to availability. Excludes Ope Offer excludes day of show. Tickets at market pricing. Additional charges may

HEALTHY YARDS E X P O

SPRINT CENTER

April 1

MAR 29 –

Shawnee Civic Centre

376111

DisneyOnIce.com

Come early and get free tree seedlings and native plants (supplies limited)

Johnson County

kcparent.com march 2017

By George! The Pops Plays Gershwin 7:30, Kauffman Center. The Boston Pops orchestra will celebrate the music of George Gershwin. HJSeries.com

25 Saturday Milo and Ruw’s Birthday Party 10:00, Kansas City Zoo. Join us at the chimpanzee exhibit for a special birthday party. KansasCityZoo.org Youth Art Class 10:00, Nerman Museum. Kids ages 8-11 learn about landscape paintings and create an imaginary panoramic scene. Pre-reg at NermanMuseum.org.

piano lessons

Learn to play piano and have FUN doing it! AGES 7+ | ALL SKILL LEVELS | AFFORDABLE | FLEXIBLE VOICE LESSONS | EXPERIENCED TEACHER (10 YRS)

Wind in the Willows 11:00 & 2:00, Puppetry Arts Institute. Stone Lion Puppets presents Wind in the Willows puppet show. Seating limited. Hazelle.org

SPRING SPECIAL: SIGN UP FOR THE FIRST MONTH AND RECEIVE ONE

Open Gym 12:30, Elite Gymnastics & Aquatics. Run, jump and play in the foam pit, rope swings and more. EliteGymSwim.com

FREE LESSON!

African-Americans in the West 1:00, Nat’l Frontier Trails Museum. Using a special brochure, discover how African-Americans contributed to settling the West. 816.325.7575 Saturday Feeder 2:00, Cedar Cove. During the winter, Cedar Cove hosts public feedings of the cats, weather permitting. $5-$7. SaveOurSiberians.org

Both daytime and evening lessons available! Call Spring Terburgh at 913-636-4472 LOCATED RIGHT OFF I-35 AND 119TH ST IN OLATHE AND IN SOUTH KCMO

Stellaluna 2:00, Kansas City Young Audiences. Stone Lion Puppets presents a show based on the popular book. 816.531.4022 Secret Keeper Girl Purple Party 3:30, Nall Ave Baptist Church. Live stage event that teaches girls true beauty and biblical modesty. NallAve.org Family Game Night 6:30, Kick Comedy Theater. A show full of “Whose Line”-style improve games. Fun for the entire family! $5-$10. KansasCityComedy.com Candlelight Night Hike 8:30, Martha LaFite Nature Sanctuary. Turn off your lights and come out to the Nature Sanctuary for a candlelight night hike. 816.781.8598

26 Sunday Farmers Market 7:00, the City Market. The market is open year-round and offers a variety of fresh produce, meat, specialty groceries and more. TheCityMarket.org Pompeii: The Exhibition Thru April, Union Station. Exhibit examines lives of the residents of Pompeii before and after the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. UnionStation.org kcparent.com march 2017

art + family = FUN 1:00, Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Join us every Saturday and Sunday for free activities for all ages! 816.751.1278

27 Monday Under the Sea Adventure 10:00, Crown Center. Plunge into a fun, creative exploration of the deep blue sea. Free. CrownCenter.com Out-of-Library Story Time 10:15, Mill Creek Activity Center. Storytellers offer books, stories, songs and more for preschoolers. Free. 913.826.2950

Family Feast Day Pizza Shoppe. Get a single topping King pizza, two Shoppe house salads and an order of garlic cheese bread for only $18.99. PizzaShoppe.com

Toddler Time 9:30, Blue Springs Fieldhouse. Kids can play on slides, scooters and more. We set up the equipment, and the kids have the fun! $2-$3. BlueSpringsGov.com

29 Wednesday

31 Friday

Toddler Town 10:00, Roger T Sermon Center. Kids can run and play at the indoor play area for ages 5 and under. $1/child. ci.Independence.mo.us

Jumperoo 9:00, Urban Air Trampoline Park. A special time for those 5 and under to enjoy access to the playground and trampoline attractions. $10/child. 913.298.0626

Disney on Ice Thru Saturday, Sprint Center. Follow your heart to Disney on Ice! Swim with Dory and Hank, see the Disney princesses and more. Save $5 with code “Olaf.” AXS.com

KCPT Kids Writers Contest Thru March 31. Calling all young authors and illustrators! Kindergarten through third-graders are invited to submit their stories. KCPT.org

Open Play 10:00, Jump City. Bring the kids to Jump City—where excitement and laughs are found daily! $8/child; parents are free. JumpCityKC.com

You Had Me at Cello 6:00, Kauffman Center. Free chamber music performance by the Kansas City Symphony. KCSymphony.org

28 Tuesday

30 Thursday

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

Over the Rainbow: Toys from the Land of Oz Thru Aug, National Museum of Toys and Miniatures. Explore all things Oz through playthings, books, costumes and more. 816.235.3000

Story Time 10:00, Central Library. A great time to talk, sing, read, write and play! All ages welcome. KCLibrary.org

CHILDREN’S CONFERENCE

Story Time 11:00, Reader’s World (Lee’s Summit). Join us for stories, a snack and a craft. Free; all ages welcome! 816.246.7323

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

VENDORS

Major League Improv 7:30, ComedyCity. A comedy sporting event with everything decided upon by the audience. $9-$13. 816.842.2744 Sleeping Beauty Thru April 9, Kauffman Center. The KC Ballet tells this tale with glittering dances and vibrant characters. KCBallet.org

WORKSHOPS

April 7-8, 2017

MPE Homeschool Conference & Curriculum Fair will be held at the KCI Expo Center at 11730 North Ambassador Drive, Kansas City, MO 64153 for directions please go to www.kciexpo.com KEYNOTE ADDRESS:

Heidi St. John Thursday, April 6, 7:00 pm Emmanuel Baptist Church • 10100 Metcalf Ave., OP, KS The Purpose of the Conference is to Provide Information on Home Schooling Techniques and Curriculum Choices.

More than 180 exhibitor booths

To find more information visit www.midwesthomeschoolers.org/conference or call 913-599-0311

kcparent.com march 2017

HEART OF AMERICA SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL

THE TEMPEST MARCH 23-26 FOUR SHOWS!

JOHNSON COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE 2016 – 2017 PERFORMING ARTS SERIES

Featuring John Rensenhouse as Prospero

MORE THAN 30 SHOWS IBEX PUPPETRY

SING ALONG WITH THE MUPPET MOVIE SUNDAY, APRIL 30

NEIL BERG’S 100 YEARS OF BROADWAY SATURDAY, MAY 13

JOEY ALEXANDER TRIO JAZZ PIANO

SATURDAY, MAY 20

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Explore

Kansas City Zoo March 11 & 12 Zootastik Learning Fest — Very Important Pollinators March 18 & 19 Superhero Weekend March 25 , 26 & 27 Ruw and Milo’s Birthday Party March 25 & 26 Species Spotlight — Camels and Llamas

Always a New Adventure! Open Year Round Check online for more Zoomazing experiences!

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

The new Birth Place featuring a Level II NICU.

This changes everything.

Change is coming. It happens when you’re expecting a new member of your family. It happens when you choose to bring that little one into the world at Olathe Medical Center’s new Birth Place. Soon, you’ll relax in a suite built for families, with the added security of a new Level II Neonatal ICU on standby.

April 30 Grand Opening Event with tours and family fun!

Your new baby. Our new Birth Place. Change is good.

Arriving May 2017 • Secure webcam-enabled nurseries • Advanced, Level II NICU where you can stay overnight with your baby in the same room • 4-story obstetrics wing featuring luxury suites with queen beds, big enough to share

olathehealth.org/birthplace