KC Parent Magazine March 2019

FREE | March 2019 | KCParent.com | Since 1985

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Explore

Kansas City Zoo

March 1 & 2 World Wildlife Weekend March 16 & 17 St. Patrick’s Day at the Zoo March 23 & 24 Meet Sluggerrr at the Zoo on Royals Weekend March 23 & 24 Humboldt Penguin March

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.

SPRING OPEN HOUSE 2019

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WHAT WILL

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BLINK? LOVE WILL.

Powered by love, we’re pushing to find the next advancement and game-changing treatments that will one day knock out cancer for good. Learn more at childrensmercy.org/lovewill.

LO VE W I LL.

MARCH

2019

IN EVERY ISSUE 10 Craft Corner 12 Date Night 14 Mojo for Moms 15 Word from Dad

SUMMER CAMP GUIDE, PG. 26

16 Nutrition Nuggets

SPECIAL SECTIONS

FEATURES

22 Party Guide 26 Camp Guide 54 Calendar of Events

18

46

48

Buying a Home

Kids Cook

Car Travel

Valuable tips for families buying a new home

Benefits of involving children with meal prep

Ideas to keep kids entertained during car trips

Special thanks to Kanakuk for providing the cover image.

KanakukSummer.com FREE | March 2019 | KCParent.com | Since 1985

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EDITOR’SLETTER MARCHCH 2019

KC Parent is giving away

20 SINGLE DAY PASSES TO COMICON! Plus, one grand prize winner receives

3-DAY PASSES PLUS AUTOGRAPH SESSION WITH HARRY POTTER GUESTS

Happy March! Happy spring break!

Happy St. Pat’s!

Over $2,000 in prizes!

Details at KCParent.com

Margaret Sarver, Editor

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

LOCAL CONTENT

Local Contributing Writers Bill Bartlett (Belton), Melissa Bellach (Overland Park), Hannah Berry (Kansas City), Megan Coffey (Overland Park), Wendy Connelly (Overland Park), Allison Gibeson (Lee’s Summit), Judy Goppert (Lee’s Summit), Lauren Greenlee (Olathe), Amy Hundley (Olathe), Gina Klein (Kansas City), Kristina Light (Kansas City), Sarah Lyons (Olathe)

Mailing Address 11936 W. 119th #335, Overland Park, KS 66213 913.782.3238 phone • 913.681.5139 fax OUR PRODUCTS FREE | March 2019 | KCParent.com | Since 1985

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I

t’s March! I look forward to this month’s arrival every year. In my mind, it signals that hope (read that as warmer temps and longer days) is on the horizon. We’ve made it through the depths of winter, and spring is just around the corner! Yes, yes, I do remember that it snowed through April last year, but that just means we’re due for an early spring this year!

With the longer days and warmer temps (I’m thinking positive and crossing my fingers and toes), the time has come to look ahead to summer, which will be here before we know it! Those three glorious months of freedom from school can drag on and be a bit long though. Never fear, summer camp to the rescue! From overnight camp to day camp to specialty camp and everything in between, we’ve got you covered with our extensive Camp Guide in print and online at KCParent. com. Grab your calendar, sit down with the kids and use the guide to plan your most awesome summer ever!

At the start of this school year, my older suggested we plan ahead and meal prep lunches for the upcoming week. I thought it was a terrific idea because packing school lunches in the morning is not one of my favorite chores. She scoured Pinterest and found some tasty recipes, and now on Sundays, she and I work to prep lunches for the upcoming week. My younger wanted to be included, so now we often prepare two recipes. Sometimes we prep together and sometimes we tag team, but either way, I LOVE having a week’s worth of lunches ready to go by Sunday evening. Kids enjoy cooking and often can do more than you think in the kitchen. Check out Judy Goppert’s article on getting kids cooking and helping with meal prep on pg. 46.

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

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

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KCPARENTWEBSITE

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

SEARCH KCPARENT.COM FOR MORE AFFORDABLE WINTER FUN IDEAS: 1. Best of March 2. Coupons and Giveaways 3. St. Patrick’s Day Guide

PLANNING SPRING BREAK FOR KIDS IN KC? SPRING BREAK GUIDE at KCParent.com

13,122

people used it last year!

SPOTLIGHT

4. KC Going Places Guide 5. Free Indoor Fun 6. Best Parks in KC

SPRING BREAK Plan an amazing and unforgettable spring break staycation with the Spring Break Guide at KCParent.com. So many activities to enjoy throughout the week!

7. Party Guide 8. Virtual Camp Guide

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

9. Complete Calendar of Events 10. Kids Eat Free

4 MORE WAYS TO STAY CONNECTED

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9

CRAFTCORNER

Materials needed:

shamrock suncatcher

W

elcome the beginning of spring to your home with this easy and fun shamrock suncatcher for your window. This craft is great for any age. Kids love using water to watch their design transform into a beautiful watercolored masterpiece!

Step one: Using your markers, draw whatever design you’d like on the coffee filter.

Step two: Place the filter on a paper towel and squirt with water to watch the design change. The best part!

Step three: While the filter is drying, fold your construction paper in half, and then in half again.

Step four: Cut out a heart using the inner corner of the folded paper as the heart’s point. This will create your shamrock cutout.

Step five: Cut around the heart cutout to make the shamrock frame.

Choose whatever thickness you prefer.

Step six: Once the filter is dry, glue the shamrock frame onto the coffee filter.

Step seven: Trim around the edges to get rid of the excess filter.

Step eight: Hang in a window with good sunlight to decorate your home with good luck for spring!

Megan Coffey is a former kindergarten teacher who lives in Overland Park with her husband and two kids. She loves encouraging creativity with her children through art and play.

Animal Confetti Globes

Cupcake Liner Wreath

Rainbow Sprinkle Slime

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

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• Construction paper • Scissors • Washable markers • Spray bottle with water • Glue stick • Paper towel • White coffee filter

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kcparent.com march 2019

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A FEW QUIRKY DATES

DATENIGHT

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For this month’s date, why not try something a little quirky?

Museum Visit One of the newest museums to the area is the Museum of Illusions at Union Station. Created by the same man as the popular Escape Room next door, Museum of Illusions is part of a franchise that began in Europe, and its only other U.S. location is in New York. The museum’s mission is to trick your eye and entertain your mind. The gallery is small but features 70 exhibits, 17 of them with mirrors. They encourage you to spend an hour in the museum and take pictures. My husband and I went on a Saturday night, not long after they opened, and the line was long. As promised though, there were numerous photo ops. Some of our favorite exhibits included the vortex tunnel, the grand illusions room in which one person looks like a giant and the other a dwarf, swap noses, kaleidoscope, and the round table. We had a fun time and would definitely recommend a visit.

B-I-N-G-O Another option for something slightly quirky is bingo. Bingo events are held all around the KC area at restaurants, bars, breweries, Knights of Columbus halls and other event venues. Some of them have a cost associated with them; some don’t. My husband and I recently went to a Sunday bingo event at Boulevard Brewing Company, which was held in their 10,000-square-foot beer hall. Bingo was a very popular event that day, so we were lucky to find a seat. The staff led us through three rounds, each lasting about 30 minutes. For every round, the play lasted long enough to get several winners and give away lots of prizes. One of the best things about the bingo was that it was free. We didn’t win any prizes, but we did have a lot of fun. Plus, the beer hall is a very nice facility. They have beer for purchase (obviously), as well as bar snacks and appetizers. It is also kid-friendly. We would enjoy going back sometime with some friends or family in tow.

Sing-Along A third quirky date idea is Choir Bar, which was launched by the same company that founded both Breakout KC and Blade & Timber. The concept is simple. You meet up at a local event space with several hundred strangers—single, married, liberals, conservatives, singers and nonsingers—and learn a popular song in three-part harmony. Attendees rehearse several times as a group and then record a professionallyproduced video. On the night we went, I estimate there were nearly two hundred people there, of all ages. Many were returning for their second, third or fourth time. That night, we learned and performed “You’ve Lost That Loving Feeling” by the Righteous Brothers. The energy, camaraderie and friendliness were palpable. Smiles abounded. And in the end, we all felt good that we could come together as one to create something, especially in a world where things often seem so divisive. I can’t wait for more Choir Bar experiences.

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

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

MOJOFORMOMS mōjō: 1. influence, especially magic power 2. mom joy

FINDING SHARED IDENTITY IN

FAMILY STORIES

Children crave a sense of identity and belonging. Research reveals the more children know about their family roots, the greater their self-esteem, academic and social competence, resilience and sense of empowerment. Here’s how to dig into these roots, together.

1 TAKE THE “DO YOU

2 WALK IN THEIR FOOTSTEPS

3 CREATE A FAMILY

Psychologists from Emory University Dr. Marshall Duke and Dr. Robyn Fivush created a “Do You Know?” scale with 20 family history questions.

They administered the scale, along with psychological tests, to four dozen families. Their findings? Performing well on the “Do You Know?” scale overwhelmingly correlated to children’s psychological health.

Why not discuss the “Do You Know” scale over dinner? You can Google the 20 questions—questions like, “Do you know…

• “how your parents met?”

• “the source of your name?”

• “some of the lessons that your parents learned from good or bad experiences?”

Whether your family is biological or adopted, this 20-question scale can be a wonderful springboard for conversations around the dinner table.

In my family of origin, I heard rumors about ancestors who made the voyage to the New World on the Mayflower. I became more intrigued as I grew older, sought my great aunt for genealogy documents and took to the Internet for details. I discovered so much more than the chart to these ancestors, including Revolutionary War heroes, kings, queens, Vikings and family lines stretching back nearly 2,000 years to Roman times!

Equipped with this knowledge, our family headed to Boston last year on a heritage trip. We enjoyed learning about three ancestors in the Revolutionary War along the Freedom Trail, visiting a replica of our Mayflower ancestors’ home in Plymouth, and touring Salem where our 14-generationold grandmother spent nine months imprisoned as an accused witch. Our history truly came alive through this trip, and we are all pining for more heritage travels.

Create a binder or blog dedicated to your family stories. Gather up photographs. Research and list genealogies. Include traditions from your cultural roots. When you’re at Grandma’s house, interview her and record as many stories as you can capture about her life and the lives of your relatives—perhaps ones you’ve never met. And don’t forget to write down your own life stories.

Our family created an “Ancestor Stories” binder chock-full of stories illustrated by our kids. It has become one of our prized treasures and our go-to book of favorite bedtime stories. From our psychic greatgreat-grandmother who entertained ghosts, to pioneers in covered wagons traversing the plains of the Midwest, to our Viking ancestor who died in a pit of snakes, these legendary stories bind us together as a family.

KNOW?” SCALE

STORYBOOK

Wendy Connelly, M.Div., is a podcaster (MoJo For Moms podcast), life coach and mother of two from Overland Park.

You can find Wendy’s latest podcasts, retreats and more at MoJoForMoms.com.

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kcparent.com march 2019

WORDFROMDAD

Let our family take care of your family!

what to do about march

i

knew better than to ask Mom. The last time I’d told her there wasn’t anything to do, I spent half the weekend cleaning my room.

So, I sat on my bed and considered the options. Nobody else was home, and March was no help. Too warm for winter, but too cold for spring. Too bare for autumn, but not wild enough for summer.

However, this was one of the warmer days where a hooded sweatshirt was all I needed to stay comfortable. With clear skies and a strong south breeze in my favor, I left for the woods.

The creek at the bottom of the hill had always summoned me with the soft burble of water over the rocks playing an irresistible siren song. I grinned in anticipation and strode down the hill toward my destiny.

Several hours later, I sneaked in through the garage, but encountered Mom in the washroom. She passed her steely gaze over me, and I gulped at her expression.

“Well?”

A spark of hope warmed me. Maybe, she hadn’t noticed my soaked sneakers, the mud up to my knees or the grime everywhere else.

“I’m sorry, Mom. There wasn’t anything else to do. None of my friends were home. I don’t like basketball, football ended months ago, plus it’s too cold for baseball. And, there’s no snow.”

Mom sighed. “March can be like that. I want you to wash your shoes, get the mud off your jeans, then take a bath, and I mean a hot one. When you’re clean and ready for bed, you can have dinner. Scoot!”

With consequences this mild, I counted myself lucky and hastened to obey. The next morning, I woke to four inches of heavy, wet snow that had plastered the trees and covered the ground.

March. What’re you gonna do?

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William R. Bartlett lives in Belton with his family. kcparent.com march 2019

15

NUTRITIONNUGGETS

S

NUTRITION ALLERGIES

pring is sprung, and fresh, warm air is on the horizon! During this time of year, seasonal sniffles, sneezes and itches may get your child down. Otherwise known as allergies, these afflictions may be environmental or even food-related and capable of impacting kids’ nutrition. Neha N. Patel, MD, with the Center for Allergy & Immunology, reports that about 5-10 percent of children have a food allergy, with the top food allergens being peanuts, milk and eggs.

FOOD ALLERGIES 101

A food allergy reaction happens when the immune system attacks a food protein it perceives as a potential threat to the body. Food allergy symptoms include swelling, itching, stomach pain, nausea or vomiting. If you are concerned your child may have an allergy, Dr. Patel states parents should “seek specialist advice for further evaluation from a board certified allergist.”

Avoiding the allergen has been the treatment mainstay if your child is diagnosed with a food allergy, according to Patel. However, she says oral food immunotherapy has shown promising results and is now available. Read on to discover savvy swaps to some of the more common food allergens you can make to ensure your KC child has healthy, beneficial meal options.

MILK The most common food allergy seen in children is to dairy, and the only treatment includes avoiding cow’s milk and foods that contain it, such as milk powder, cheese, butter, margarine, yogurt, cream and ice cream.

EGGS An egg allergy is the second most common food allergy among children.

Interestingly enough, one can be allergic to egg whites but not egg yolks and vice versa.

EASY & SIMPLE HEALTHFUL SUBSTITUTION EASY & SIMPLE HEALTHFUL SUBSTITUTION Soy, coconut, rice, potato, oat, almond, hazelnut, cashew, hemp, flax, sunflower and even macadamia are non-dairy cow’s milk alternatives. Most of these offer yummy flavors such as vanilla, chocolate and mocha.

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Choose to integrate egg alternatives in your cooking and baking. The alternative you choose will depend on the egg’s function in a particular recipe. For instance, Pat, a Leawood mother of three, goes for tofu when seeking a scrambled egg option. “All you have to do is saute and slightly smash the tofu to achieve the desired look of a scrambled egg dish. I use tofu in my morning breakfast skillets for my kids, layer some veggies and herbs over it, and they eat it up.”

TREE NUTS A tree nut allergy is a sensitivity to certain nuts and seeds that come from trees, including almonds, cashews, macadamia nuts, pistachios, walnuts, Brazil nuts and walnuts. Those who deal with this allergy are advised to abstain from all types of tree nuts, even if they are only allergic to one or two types of nuts. This is because being allergic to one type of tree nut enhances your risk of developing an allergy to another type of nut.

EASY & SIMPLE HEALTHFUL SUBSTITUTION Reach for crunchy granola or crisp rice cereal. These crunchy munches not only provide a grainy texture, but will also deliver hearty taste. Especially in baking, dried fruit, such as cranberries, cherries, dates or raisins are other optimal replacements.

PEANUTS Peanut allergies have increased markedly. According to the Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network, the number of children with a peanut allergy in the United States more than tripled between 1997 and 2008.

EASY & SIMPLE HEALTHFUL SUBSTITUTION Sunflower butter and soy butter are optimal alternatives for peanut butter, offering a smooth, creamy taste with a bit of a crunch. Sunflower seeds and pumpkin seeds can also be used as replacements for peanuts.

SOY

WHEAT

This type of allergy is cause by a protein in soybeans or soybeancontaining products. Such products include soy milk and soy sauce.

EASY & SIMPLE HEALTHFUL SUBSTITUTION Almond milk is the most popular nut milk that you will likely see at the grocery store. Hazelnut and cashew are other common nut milks made without soy, and coconut milk is a classic alternative when you’re seeking to be soy-free.

A true wheat allergy causes an immune response to one of the hundreds of proteins found in wheat. Avoiding wheat isn’t always as simple as it sounds because it hides in foods as varied as ice cream, hot dogs and even soy sauce.

EASY & SIMPLE HEALTHFUL SUBSTITUTION Swapping bread and flour tortillas for corn tortillas is a great option.

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

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

Sources: Academy of Nutrition & Dietetics, EatRight.org, WebMD.com

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kcparent.com 11/13/18 4:46 PM march 2019

the

family home

buying guide

a

s winter fades into spring, many families begin to consider buying a new home. Spring is the most popular time of year to both buy and sell a home, and a spring sale often means moving during the summer, when most children are out of school. According to the National Association of Realtors, from the mid-1980s until 2008, most American families remained in a home for about six years.

Since 2008, that number has increased to an average of nine years. While the housing crisis left many families feeling financially insecure and afraid to risk selling or buying a home, the rise in wages and improvements in the economy of the last decade have created a market where many houses are for sale and lots of families ready to buy. So, if you are ready to take the step and purchase a home, where should you start? Here are a few tips to help make your home-buying experience a smooth one!

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kcparent.com march 2019

Communicate with your partner and get on the same page about what you want in a house. This will help you narrow down the area where you want to live and the type of home you want to buy, as well as guide your budgeting.

Establish your priorities. Some families are looking for a forever home.

Others are looking for a starter house or an older home to rehabilitate. “We knew we wanted a fixer-upper. We love DIY and were excited to take on the challenge. But not everyone wants to spend their weekends on home projects!” says Stacey Keller, Kansas City, MO, mom. Communicate with your partner and get on the same page about what you want in a house. This will help you narrow down the area where you want to live and the type of home you want to buy, as well as guide your budgeting.

Set your budget. As with any large purchase, set a budget and to stick to it.

Once you know what you are looking for in a home, you will better understand what you will need to spend to get what you want. “We had to set the budget right up front. Once

we started looking at houses, it helped us to weed out the ones that were out of our price range, and it kept us from wasting time on houses that were way below our range,” says Debbie Brown, Olathe mom.

Do your research. Researching on your own will help save you time and ensure you get what you want. “We wanted to understand the neighborhood, the schools, the buying and selling trends in the area. We wanted to know everything,” says Rachel Thornton, Shawnee mom. So many things can impact the value of your home long-term. This includes the local school system, the age of the neighborhood and the amenities in the community. Spend time driving around the areas where you are considering purchasing a home. This will help you get a feel for the entire area, and you can decide whether it is a good fit for your family.

Look at the big picture. When putting a house on the market, sellers will stage the home to look its best. They often put on fresh coats of paint and have the house professionally cleaned.

Although these touches are nice and help to show the home in its best light, other things are important to consider for the long-term. Walls can be repainted, knobs and pulls can be replaced and carpet can be cleaned or removed. When considering buying a home, you’ll benefit by looking carefully at whether or not the layout, location and functionality of the house work for your family. “It was hard not to get distracted by pretty lighting fixtures and gorgeous carpet. But in the end, we needed a house that fit our family’s lifestyle. We can always update the light fixtures,” says Barb Reynolds, Raytown mom.

Continued to page 20

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19

Decide when to compromise (and when not to). We all know the difference between want and need, and that difference is never more important than when you are buying a house. “I really wanted a huge walk-in pantry, but I knew we needed a big yard for the kids.

I compromised on the pantry for the house with a great backyard. And really, I’m happy about it every day. We have so much fun in that yard,” says Grace Wilkins, Overland Park mom. Your home-buying experience will be much smoother if you create your want and need lists ahead of time. Do you want a whirlpool bathtub?

Hardwood floors? A finished basement?

Great, put those on the list. But what can you not live without? Four bedrooms?

A fenced yard? Identifying your dealbreakers in advance will save you time and stress.

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

Home Buying 101 What are the most common mistakes buyers make when purchasing a house?

“Not budgeting closing costs and other fees! Hire a good professional inspector and don’t be afraid to ask any questions. Remember, your dream home is also an investment,” says Choo Lee, realtor with SBD Housing Solutions.

Here are some additional lessons learned by the experts: • There are lots of different kinds of loans. Shopping around for your mortgage loan is important. Some loans can require 20 percent down, for example, while others require as little as 3 percent. Shopping around can help you get the best deal and help you find the right loan for you.

• You are typically required to pay mortgage insurance until you have 20 percent equity in your home. However, your mortgage company is not going to stop charging you for mortgage

insurance automatically when you reach that 20 percent equity mark. You will need to talk to them when you’ve reached the right point.

• The asking price on a home is negotiable. When you make an offer, you can make one well below the asking price if you choose. In a good housing market, the seller will not be as willing to negotiate on the price as in a down market.

• You should always have a home inspection. You have the right to have a home inspected after you’ve negotiated a contract with the seller.

You should have the home inspection done and have your contract reflect that you can request repairs or back out of the deal based on the inspection results.

• Sellers pay the realtor fee. When you’re a buyer, you don’t pay a fee to the realtor.

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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. kcparent.com march 2019

23

turning reading into a

famil y e r u t n e v d a tips to help cultivate a love of literacy in your home

t

Kansas City mom Amanda Leppard finds books related to a his past winter, Liberty mom Alicia Moore transformed theme and plans field trips, snacks and even sensory bins related the inside of her house into a magical scene from C.S. to the topic for her preschool-age children. For example, they Lewis’ The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe for her went to see construction vehicles when they explored a teenagers and their friends to enjoy. It was just one construction theme, and they saw the model train exhibit at activity she has done to make reading an experience for her Union Station, as well as an airport, when whole family.

“All kids have different interests, and it’s That’s what literature can do— they learned about transportation.

“I try to get the kids to see hands-on hard to find something common the whole it allows you to come together what we are reading about,” Leppard says. family can bond around,” Moore says. “But Yet sometimes the best moments I feel that’s what literature can do—it allows in a meaningful way that to teach reading aren’t the ones you you to come together in a meaningful way you will remember forever. necessarily plan. Simply showing kids that you will remember forever.” the purpose of reading and its many uses The best way to make reading a family in everyday life goes a long way. This can be done by showing affair is to start from the beginning. Reading to an infant helps the youngsters your shopping list, the recipe for your favorite cookies child grow accustomed to your voice and teaches him language. or the instructions to the board game you play together.

Be sure to incorporate books into his play and get him used to “Just talk about everything and read everything,” says Scott being surrounded by books.

Rader, early literacy coordinator for the Mid-Continent Public As a child develops into a toddler and preschooler, be more Library. “There are words everywhere as we go through the day.” intentional about your reading time together. Have the child As the child gets to school age and begins learning phonics interact with the story, perhaps by making sound effects or actions and sight words, make reading fun for her and develop games. every time a certain word or phrase appears in a book. Consider For example, write the words for common household objects on acting out stories using costumes, voices and props.

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kcparent.com march 2019

notecards and have the child affix them to the appropriate object in the house.

Even watching TV can be turned into a reading opportunity when you turn on the closed captioning.

“Adults often forget how much reading we do during the course of the day that could be turned into learning opportunities,” says Michael Willis, school-age coordinator for the Mid-Continent Public Library.

As the kids get older, begin asking them their opinions about the stories they are reading. Have them predict what will happen next and what they believe motivated the author to write the story.

Willis says that around third grade, a child is no longer simply learning to read, he is reading to learn important lessons. One of the best ways to show a child what reading can teach him is to incorporate nonfiction into your reading lists.

Many nonfiction books have short blurbs, captions and bullet-point facts about topics, and these are highly effective methods to teach kids information. Going to museums also offers similar reading opportunities, as you take in information at each exhibit.

No matter how you read with your kids, the most important thing is that you do it. Not only does reading together as a family build lasting memories, but it also helps kids succeed academically.

Proudly Supported By:

Allison Gibeson is a freelance writer from Lee’s Summit who enjoys going to the library and reading with her son.

For great new titles for all ages, head to KCParent.com!

Bringing Books to Life Looking for ways to get everyone in your house more engaged in reading?

Here are a few tips to get you started. n Create themed parties based on favorite fiction books.

Consider using scenery, props, costumes, crafts and even making recipes related to the story. n Before going on a vacation, read various fiction and

nonfiction books related to your destination. For example, if you are taking a road trip to California or Oregon, delve into literature about the westward trails, stop at trail markers along the way and pretend your car is a covered wagon. n Have the kids develop their own alternate ending or a

sequel to a book you are reading.

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Special Advertising Section

adventure at www.CampWood.org. Join us Sunday, April 28 and Saturday, May 4, 1-5 pm for a free Open House. See display ad on pg. 39.

Ceramic Café

KC Parent’s

Camp Guide

Accelerated Schools Accelerated Schools of Overland Park offers two summer programs from June 4 through July 26. 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. 34. www.AcceleratedSchoolsOP.org

Animal Camp-Cub Creek Science Camp Imagine spending a week feeding lemurs, walking alpacas, grooming miniature horses, and playing with puppies and parrots! Choose from over 100 activities, sleep comfortably in spacious, airconditioned cabins, enjoy a variety of

36,205

visitors to KCParent.com’s virtual camp guide in 2018

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kcparent.com march 2019

delicious meals, and learn from some of the friendliest and fun staff around! www.CubCreekScienceCamp.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. 45. Ask for free brochure!

573.458.2125.

Camp Wood YMCA Your overnight Y camp in the Flint Hills.

Trusted by KC families for 100 years, our classic summer camp experience includes archery, canoeing, horseback riding and more. Specialty camps like skateboarding, paintball, leadership and equestrian camps are also available. Our ACA-accredited programs help campers build character, learn skills and make friends—all within a safe, caring environment. Choose your

104,000

readers each issue of KC Parent Magazine

Ceramic Cafe’s summer program provides instruction in a variety of ceramic art techniques including hand building with clay, ceramic painting and glazing techniques and also glass fusing. Fun themes change every camp session, so kids can sign up for their favorite or enroll more than once. Aspiring Artists sessions run for 4 days and are for ages 8 and up. Creative Kids sessions run 3 days for ages 5-7.

Several one day Mini Camps and a “Kids and Clay” series are also offered throughout the summer. Visit our website at www.

CeramicCafeKC.com for add’l info and registration form. See display ad on pg. 36.

Christian Youth Theater ACT. SING. DANCE. LIVE! CYT Kansas City offers a variety of fantastic summer theater camps all across the KC metro area. Day camp themes include “You Are a Broadway Star” and “Disney’s Greatest Hits” for half-day (ages 5-7) and full-day (ages 7-12) campers. Non-musical Xtreme camps (ages 10-16) include “Star Wars: Tales from the Force,” “The Marvelous World of Marvel,” and “Nintendo Super Smash!”

Our High School Master Drama Camp features “Radium Girls.” Overnight camps include “Legally Blonde Jr.” (ages 11-14) and “Thoroughly Modern Millie” (ages 14-19), with full-length performances.

Visit www.CYTKC.org or call 913.681.3318.

See display ad on pg. 31.

DID YOU KNOW? KCParent.com has a NEW Geo-based, searchable Camp Guide with maps, descriptions, photos and videos.

With these stats, it’s easy to see how KC Parent has camps covered!

& 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!

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.

CAMPGUIDE Code Ninjas Spark your child’s inner ninja and transform their love of technology and video games into a new skill with Code Ninjas summer camps! Our curriculum based camps include MinecraftTM, Robotics, Drones, RobloxTM, Website design, Application and Game Building, along with fun team building STEM activities and games. At Code Ninjas they can explore technology, develop new skills, and have a great time with friends in a safe environment. It’s an unforgettably fun learning experience! See display ad on pg.

41. Now with two locations in Lenexa and Leawood. www.CodeNinjas.com

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.

Overnight and travel camps include Space 101-501, Mars Academy and Forces of Flight. Building robots and rockets, SCUBA training like astronauts, interplanetary missions to solve a crisis, learning to fly, plus experiences that include adventures of a lifetime with travel camps to Texas, Florida and California…those are just some of ways your child can spend the summer. See display ad on pg. 37. www.Cosmo.org

The Coterie Acts Theatre Classes and Camps The Coterie offers classes for kids entering grades K-12 at five sites: The Plaza (Pembroke Hill), Overland Park (MillerMarley), Lee’s Summit (MCC Longview), Liberty (Liberty CC), and the Northland (MCC Maple Woods). Half-day and full-day classes led by professional, trained teaching artists include creative drama, acting, and audition skills. 2019 Performance Camps include Footloose (at Pembroke), Frozen Jr. (at Longview), and The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe (at Liberty). See display ad on pg. 13. Visit www.TheCoterie.org.

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CAMPGUIDE The Culture House Spend your summer at The Culture House!

Shows/workshops include dance, theatre, music and art ... taught by professionally trained adults. “A YEAR WITH FROG & TOAD” (13-20), “MARY POPPINS JR” (10-13), “101 DALMATIONS KIDS” (6-11), Music of Trolls, Greatest Show, Return of Mary, Music of Moana, Improv, Broadway at The Tony’s, Songs of Matilda, Instrumental Music, Painting, Art Exploration, Drawing, Minecraft Art, Prince & Princess Ballet, Itty Bitty Ballerina, Hip Hop, Jazz, Ballet & more! Openings limited!

See display ad on pg. 27. 913.393.3141. Enroll online: www.CultureHouse.com

Elite Squad Tennis Club Come join us for a ton of fun in the Summer sun! Our program is specifically designed to teach tennis in a fun and encouraging environment. We will teach the

fundamentals of tennis along with skills like ball tracking, footwork, teamwork, and social skills that will be transferable to any sport. Camp activities include instructional tennis games, team building activities and tennis trivia! See display ad on pg. 44. www.EliteSquadTennis.com

Family Tree Nursery Family Tree Nursery-Horticulture Camp Calling all 8-12 year olds for our Annual Summer Horticulture Camp! Grow your mind, cultivate a new friend, and dig in the garden for 3 fun-filled days at Family Tree Nursery. Explore amazing plants, eat yummy snacks, take home a cool t-shirt, and play interactive games with leaders and peers. Camps run Tuesday, July 9-Thursday, July 11. Morning and afternoon sessions are available. See display ad on page 3. www.FamilyTreeNursery.com

J Camp J Camp, as UNIQUE as you are! Youth entering 1st through 8th grade can experience 13 Premiere and Specialty Camps, providing variety all summer long. Unique camp activities for children ages 2 – 5 years are offered through our Child Development Center (CDC). Campers of all ages will learn new skills in a structured, recreational, and educational environment while enjoying the arts, sports, STEM, swimming, and more. Conveniently located at 117th and Nall, our unparalleled facilities include two on-site pools! Open to everyone, The Jewish Community Center’s Camp IS summer. See display ad on pg. 28. www.JCampKC.org

Johnson County Museum Johnson County Museum summer camps offer the chance to explore history, be a Junior Curator, and explore the inner Continued on page 34

ENROLL TODAY!

SUMMER ART CLASSES

nelson-atkins.org/summer-classes

45th & Oak, Kansas City, Missouri | 816.751.1278 Nelson-Atkins_KCParent_Classes_March2019_2.indd march 2019 30

kcparent.com

1

Ages 3–Adult

Classes, workshops & full-day camps.

1/31/19 5:33 PM

Summer at Pembroke Hill

Now Enrolling!

Open to all students ages 2-18

www.pembrokehill.org

Radium Girls

Thoroughly Modern Millie Legally Blonde Jr.

CAMPGUIDE

b

of

p m a c r e m m u s

fits health bene

efore you know it, the schools will be opening their doors to set your kiddos free for the summer. What’s more, the kids (teens included) will be quietly planning their summer escapes to the digital and video-game worlds. But is that where you really want them spending their precious time? Probably not. At least not too much of it. So why not consider summer camps around your area? They’ll do a great job peeling your kids from screens and keeping them actively involved in good stuff. At summer camps, kids not only learn valuable life lessons, but also gain multiple health benefits.

As you entertain the idea of sending your child off to camp, remember that not all camps are overnight affairs. Day camps are just as beneficial as the sleep-over camps. The child gets to participate in day-long activities and return home in time for dinner, which can be the best of both worlds. Your child will get to have a fun, summer camp experience, and you’ll hold on to your peace of mind. Here are some of the summer camp health benefits you can expect your kids to gain:

Social Opportunities – If you’d like your child to make new friends, summer camp is a great opportunity for him to engage in social interactions outside of the school building. What’s more, if your child is a teen, summer camp can help her develop social skills in a more mature environment.

In addition, encouraging her to try summer camp will put her in everyday social situations that will prepare her for college and beyond.

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Exercise – Summer camps are a great opportunity to leave technology behind and participate in active fun, such as running, canoeing, hiking, swimming, horseback riding, dancing and more.

The trick is finding the camp your child will enjoy most. If your child is involved in sports, a sports camp is a great opportunity to hone her skills, but if your child doesn’t have a preferred sport or activity, there are camps that give attendees the opportunity to try new things.

Leadership Skills and SelfEsteem – Camps can offer many character-building exercises and opportunities for kids to challenge themselves, thus developing a sense of independence. Kids try new adventures, gain confidence in their abilities, learn to solve problems, work together and assert leadership roles.

Healthy Eating Habits – Many experts believe camp is a good way to promote nutrition education and

healthy eating habits because it’s a completely new setting for the kids. Attendees are more likely to try new foods and eat their fruits and veggies.

Connection with Nature – Summer camps generally conduct a good portion of their activities in the great outdoors, which is just what the doctor ordered. Time outside, regardless of age, has been proven to relieve stress, improve academic performance and promote sociability. It’s a fantastic outlet for children of all ages!

New Hobbies – Summer camps provide so many activities, kids will undoubtedly discover new ones to love that will extend their skills and abilities.

Finding a new hobby can lead to honing those skills and giving them a lifelong love and passion for something they learned at camp. What if your child doesn’t fall in love with a craft or sport his camp provided him? No worries. The simple knowledge of and exposure to these hobbies will make your kids wellrounded individuals.

Resilience – New challenges and obstacles encountered at camp help kids develop a resilient nature, fostering critical thinking skills and motivational drive to solve problems that appear.

And while the kids may not always succeed at challenges they’re given, this adversity teaches them endurance and enables them to improve themselves for the next time.

KANSAS CITY YOUNG AUDIENCES

Register Online!

AGES Space 6-16 ! d e Limit

paintglazeandfire.net 127th & Metcalf, OPKS • 913-661-CLAY

S i n g, , e c n Da Act, e, k a M & Play!

Unplugged from Technology – There’s so much more to life than a screen! Unplugging from the world of technology does kids a world of good.

Summer camp gives kids and teens alike the opportunity to put down their phones and video games and enjoy the real world around them. Campers will be spending much of their time playing and exploring in nature. From this alone, they will gain practical skills and self-reliance, helping them to become less dependent on technology.

Kansas City mom and author Gina Klein is hoping to encourage her two daughters to sign up for a summer day camp

Get creative at the Nerman Museum!

Classes (ages 5-11) combine engaging, interactive tours with unique studio projects.

SUM M ER TI M E at

KCYA

Week-long, full and half day camp options Scholarships and payment plans available Descriptions online: KCYA.org

Tuesdays-Fridays, June 4-August 2 10 a.m.–noon or 2–4 p.m.

Pre-registration is required.

913-469-2323 • nermanmuseum.org

Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art Johnson County Community College kcparent.com march 2019

33

CAMPGUIDE workings of a museum and make new friends! Immerse yourself in history through games, food, music and clothing representing different cultures and times.

Unique hands-on activities opportunities for kids entering 1st grade through high school.

Full and half day options, open art studio for before and after care, and Museum members receive a 20% discount. See display ad on pg. 36. www.JoCoMuseum.org

To sign up, or to inquire about discounts, contact Mark Maroon, General Manager, by email at

mark@oakwoodcountryclub.org or call 816-761-5501, ext. 102

Daily Activities include

Professional Tennis Lessons – 1 hour daily Professional Golf Lessons – 1 hour daily Professional Swim Lessons – 1 hour daily Nutritious Lunch Morning & Afternoon Snack

Other Creative & Fun Activities including...

Sand Volleyball, Archery, Art, Fort Building, Drama, Pickle Ball, Gardening, Hiking, Fishing, Cup Stacking and more!

9800 Grandview Road, Kansas City, MO 64137 | www.oakwoodcountryclub.org

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, music, theatre, and

If your child is facing challenges in school, “excelling” may seem out of reach.

We specialize in working with students who don’t always “fit into the box.”

BEST WEEK OF! SUMMEDR AY TO SIGN UP

Join us for a week of new friends, Bible-based teaching, and nonstop fun and adventure led by our friendly, professionally trained staff.

Several Kansas City locations available!

Enroll today at

CometoKamp.com or call 417.266.3000

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kcparent.com march 2019

Summer programs will be held from June 4 until July 26, 2019.

High School students in grades 9-12 can complete up to 1 full credit in subjects including math, science, social studies, English, Spanish, computer and art. All courses are accredited by the State of Kansas and AdvancED. Middle school students, grades 4-8, can attend the Academics and Arts Camp.

They can spend 2.5 hours in individualized tutoring and then participate in 1.5 hours of creative expression. All programs are from 9 am until 1 pm, Monday through Friday. Individualized tutoring is also available.

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

overnight camp is your child ready?

A

s the cold winter months near an end, are visions of summertime dancing through your head? If so, you’re not alone.

Soon we’ll be saying bye-bye to cabin fever and a welcoming hello to the warm sunshine, flip-flops, bomb pops, summer vacation … and for some of our children, overnight camp!

Before enrolling your child in any particular camp, look over the following ways to prepare yourself and your child for the overnight camp experience:

Involve your child in the selection process. You don’t want her to feel as if you’re just sending her off to some strange place. Go through camp brochures and/or websites together.

Let your child know what to expect and review the checklist of things that will happen each day. springbreakOPKCparent.pdf

1

2/8/19

Ask questions. Ask everything and anything you can think of and don’t feel silly about it. What is the camperto-staff ratio? What is a typical day like at camp? Are there background checks on staffers? What happens if someone bullies your child? Asking questions will help ease your mind.

Plan your correspondence. Email or

Prepare for camp together. Read through the packing list together, bring your child with you when shopping for camp supplies and pack together.

you’re excited for her by telling her things like, “Can’t wait to hear all about the fun things you’ll do at camp!” What you don’t want to do is disrupt her enthusiasm with your own nerves. Don’t linger too long when you drop her off and avoid using the word homesickness or making deals with her by promising to pick her up if she’s sad.

Homesickness is completely normal.

Make sure your child can take care of herself. Be sure she can bathe by herself, brush her own teeth, comb her hair, unpack her own bags, decide what to wear and make healthy food choices. It’s also important that she can verbally express her basic needs (i.e. if she needs help or doesn’t feel well).

9:23 AM

snail mail? You and your child decide.

Make it easy for her by addressing and stamping envelopes which she can use to mail letters home. Camps typically have no-phone-call policies.

Stay positive about the camp experience! Let your child know

Gina Klein writes from her home in Kansas City, where she resides with her husband and two daughters.

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

PREPARE TO ACTIVATE AWESOME OVER SPRING BREAK!!

Special hours March 8th - March 18th.

Doors open daily at 10 AM!

14401 Metcalf Ave | 913.298.0626 www.urbanairop.com kcparent.com march 2019

35

CAMPGUIDE 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/camps.

See display ad on pg. 37.

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

Kids 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 equip next generation leaders. Learn more about customizing your child’s summer camp experience at www.KanakukSummer.com.

See display ad on pg. 29.

Kanakuk KampOut 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.CometoKamp.com. See display ad on pg. 34.

Kansas City Ballet Kansas City Ballet School Summer Programs include once-a-week classes and four-day ballet camps for children ages 2-7.

Camp themes include Little Mermaid and Fairy Princesses. Additional courses and workshops available for ages 8-22. Classes begin June 3rd. Enroll today to guarantee your child’s spot. Two convenient locations:

Downtown and Johnson County. See display ad on pg. 43. For more information visit www.KCBallet.org/school or call 816.931.2299.

Kansas City Young Audiences Sing, Dance, Act, Create, and Play! Kansas City Young Audiences offers children performing and visual arts classes, camps, and private instruction at their creative space on Main Street. Spring Break Camps will be held March 11-15. Summer Camps begin in June.

Scholarships are available. 816.531.4022. See display ad on pg. 33. www.KCYA.org

Kansas City Zoo Make your summer a little wilder with Summer Break Camp. Camp runs May 28 through August 9. Learn the inside scoop about the Zoo’s creatures. A typical week includes exclusive zoo tours, animal encounters/shows, science experiments,

REGISTER Today!

SUMMER CAMP REGISTRATION

NOW OPEN

8788 Metcalf Ave • Overland Park, KS • 66212 www.jocomuseum.org • 913-826-2787

Summer Camps for All Ages SAVE $5 per Pottery Item OR $2 OFF Creative Story Time Must mention KC Parent to receive discount

9510 Nall | Overland Park, KS 913.383.0222

CeramicCafeKC.com

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kcparent.com march 2019

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CAMPGUIDE

2019 Summer Camp June 10-14 • 9 am - 12 pm My Puppet World!

June 17-21 • 9 am - 12 pm Spectacular STEM Puppets!

June 24-28 • 9 am - 4 pm Fantastic and Beastly

Exploring the World of Harry Potter Through Puppetry

July 8-12 • 9 am - 12 pm Puppet Power!

July 15-19 • 9 - 12 pm

How to Train Your Dragon and Other Prehistric Puppet Pets

July 22-26 • 9 am - 12 pm Pixar Puppets

July 29-Aug 2 • 9 am - 4 pm Stop Motion Lego Movie

To enroll, contact Alex Espy at 816-756-3500 or email alex@mesnerpuppets.org

NEW HEIGHTS REACH

THIS SUMMER!

MISSOURI MILITARY ACADEMY Build confidence, learn to lead, and have fun! Leadership, confidence or academic camps. For boys ages 8 to 17.

Mexico, Missouri • Est. 1889 • Missourimilitaryacademy.org/summer

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kcparent.com march 2019

games, and crafts. Half day camps for ages 4-5, full day for ages 5-15. COST: ½ day: $125, full day: $260-280, Before/Aftercare (3:30pm-5:30pm): $15. 10% discount for FOTZ Members. Check out single day camp options the week of 4th of July. See display ad on pg. 28. www.KansasCityZoo.org/ programs/day-camps

Menser Puppet Theater As the region’s leader in high-quality puppetry, Mesner Puppet Theater is dedicated to providing experiences that speak to your child’s own innate sense of self expression and creativity. During a diverse array of summer camp topics, your child will be guided in developing the skills to become their happiest and most successful selves!

To enroll, contact Alex at 816.756.3500 or email alex@mesnerpuppets.org. See display ad on pg. 38.

Missouri Military Academy Build confidence, learn to lead, and have fun—discover summer camps at Missouri Military Academy! Through fun, challenging activities and new experiences, MMA provides an opportunity for boys to develop their independence, team spirit and self-reflection. Confidence Camp (ages 8-11) and Leadership Camp (ages 12-17) offer fun daily activities like paint ball, pugil sticks and rappelling, while Summer Academy (grades 9-12) focuses on academic improvement while offering earned credit. See display ad on pg. 38. www.MissouriMilitaryAcademy.org/summer

Music House Five days of life-enhancing arts experiences.

You can join a band, put on a show, make a music video, try a new instrument, write a song, and much more. Options for absolute beginners through experienced players ages 6 - 17. Regardless of what you choose, you’re sure to learn a lot about thinking independently while working cooperatively.

Continued on page 42

Camp Wood YMCA Be You.

Belong.

Your overnight Y camp in the Flint Hills. From trail rides through the prairie to campouts under the stars, Camp Wood YMCA offers your child the classic summer camp experience you’ve been searching for. Trusted by Kansas City families for over 100 years, we are the only ACA-accredited overnight Y Camp in Kansas.

Be Adventerous. www.campwood.org

620.273.8641

CAMPGUIDE

v e i f questions

to ask before choosing a camp

Are we overnight ready?

One of the main questions that pops into my mind when I hear “summer camp” is will it be overnight? My kids are still in their younger years, but we are definitely entering this era. As a parent, you need to determine whether you think your child is ready and able to go to an overnight camp or not. You also need to decide whether you are ready for that leap as a parent.

Discuss details and expectations with your child, as well as what to do if he needs you or changes his mind while he’s there.

Will any of my child’s friends be attending?

One of the best parts of camp, and summer in general, is spending time with your friends. Now we know that children can make friends once they acclimate to camp, but having friends go to the same camp with you is fun too. Check with the parents of your children’s pals to see what they’re looking into for summer camps. If your child knows he will have a familiar face to look for once at camp, he may feel at home there sooner.

What is the mission of the camp and how is safety handled?

a

s winter slowly thaws to spring, the time arrives to start planning for how to keep our children occupied and entertained during summer vacation.

Pool passes, splash pads and family vacations may be in the picture, as well as the possibility of sending your children to summer camps. When I was growing up, we had a local Bible camp that some of my friends enjoyed, but camp was not something I experienced. Nowadays, especially in a more suburban area, camps come in all sorts of shapes and sizes. How do you know where to start looking and which one is right for your family?

What type of camp?

First consider what type of camp your child would enjoy and that you would like for him to experience. Maybe your budding artist would be thrilled to continue learning

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art techniques at an art camp. Perhaps your child is interested in learning more about becoming a chef, making a cooking camp helpful. Sports camps hone kids’ athletic skills, and faith-based camps are another option.

What is camp’s duration?

The length of the camp is also a critical detail to consider. If your child is enthusiastic about a particular camp, she may want to spend a week or two enjoying what the camp has to offer. On the other hand, maybe she wants to have the experience but also enjoy a more laidback summer as well. Check to see whether there are morning- or afternoon-only camps compared to full-day camps to cater to your needs. The age of your child can be a big deciding factor for how long she will be able to enjoy a day at camp as well.

As with any facility caring for your children, make sure to do some background checks on what this camp’s mission statement is, as well as what their staff-tocamper ratio is. Also learn how the camp staff is screened and trained, and whether a nurse is on staff. Make sure you know how to be reached in case of an emergency and how you will be able to communicate with your child while she is away.

Summer camp has all the sentimental feel of carefree summer movie reels, with time spent figuring out who you are as an individual, how to work as a team, and making memories with possible lifelong friends. Word of mouth is a great method to find hidden summer camp treasures and activities, too, so ask around your friend circles, neighborhood, community centers, churches and even schools.

Stephanie Loux is the mother of Layla, 8, Mason, 7, and Slade, 3, and has sent her kids to three different VBS programs during the summer to enjoy a bit of summer peace.

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CAMPGUIDE And you’re going to have fun in the process.

Enroll online at www.MusicHouseSchool. com/summer-camps. See display ad on pg. 45.

Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art Make it a summer of imagination and fantasy at The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art! Unlike any other summer camp in Kansas City, the museum offers a wide variety of classes, full-day camps and oneday workshops for all ages. Enroll early to secure your spot! Dates and descriptions at www.Nelson-Atkins.org/summer-classes.

See display ad on pg. 30. 816.751.1278

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 4-August 2, with individual sessions from 10AM-noon or 2PM-4PM. Register at www.nermanmuseum.org or call 913.469.2323. See display ad on pg. 33.

Oakwood Country Club For 100 years, Oakwood Country Club has been a charming and vital institution in our community. Home to thousands of Jewish lifecycle events, Oakwood has helped create many happy memories in our community, and they look forward to many more in the years to come. This summer kids can create memories at Oakwood’s Summer Camp, June 3-July 12.

To sign up, or to inquire about discounts, contact Mark Maroon, General Manager, at mark@oakwoodcountryclub.org or call 816.761.5501, ext. 102. See display ad pg. 34.

SUMMER IS COMING AND WE CAN’T WAIT!

Paint, Glaze & Fire Ceramics & Coffee House Camp ARTRAGEOUS! Paint Glaze & Fire Ceramics & Coffee House is offering summer camp for its 21st 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! Find more information and register ONLINE (registration opens 2/1) as well at www.PaintGlazeAndFire.net. For more information on these and many other fun and creative programs, visit the website OR call 913.661.CLAY (2529). See display ad on pg. 33.

Science City Science City Summer Camp 2019 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

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GRAB YOUR KIDS’ SPOT AT 2019 SUMMER DAY CAMPS Summer break from school doesn’t mean kids’ development has to be on vacation, too. Summertime at the Y focuses on achievement, relationships and belonging — three important drivers of healthy youth development. Explore camps and register online at KansasCityYMCA.org/Camp.

®

kcparent.com march 2019

43

CAMPGUIDE science, art and innovation each week.

Camp runs June 3-Aug 2, Monday through Friday, 9:00-4:00. FREE early and late care available. $220/week for Union Station members, $250/non-members. Space is limited! For more information, visit www.ScienceCity.Com/SummerCamp.

See display ad on pg. 67.

Summer at Barstow Kansas City’s most unique and spectacular camp experience for children 3-14! Summer at Barstow offers more than 400 adventures in the arts, sports, science, technology, creative play and the most current crazes. Camps are offered May 28-August 2. Extended care available. Check out our catalog at www.barstowschool.org/summer.

Contact summer@barstowschool.org for information. Enroll now! See display ad pg. 41.

Summer at Pembroke Hill Are you ready for a summer experience that is out of this world? The Summer at Pembroke Hill program fosters creativity, inspires curiosity and creates a fun learning environment for every student. 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. 30.

Theatre of the Imagination Acting! Singing! Dancing! Movie Making!

Fun & flexible 1 & 2-week camps. We take partials, pick your schedule. K-8th, no previous experience needed. No auditions, no leads and small class sizes. Free shows & free costumes. Ask about our $174/week All Day special. Unicorns, Space Warriors, Grouchy Cats, Sharkalanche, Mermaids, Ninjas, Fairy

Tales, Rock Stars and more! And free fidget spinners July 1-5! Mention KC Parent & get $40 off, (some restrictions apply). See display ad pg. 42. www.DramaKC.com

Urban Air Jump, climb, and swing into Spring Break at Urban Air, the ultimate indoor playground for your entire family! Face off against friends with a dash through the Warrior Obstacle Course or Tubes Playground, then get your inner Lebron on in the Slam Dunk Zone. Fly sky high and bounce off the walls on our APEX trampolines and gather the troops for an epic dodgeball pic battle!

Family and friends gather here where no age limits means fun for all! See display ad on pg. 35. www.UrbanAirTrampolinePark.com

YMCA of Greater Kansas City Kids can have the best summer ever at Y Summer Day Camps! The focus is on

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achievement, relationships and belonging, all rolled together with fun activities like field trips to explore our city, camper competitions to show off talents and learn teamwork, wild and wacky dress up days, swimming, arts, STEM, outdoor education and so much more. Locations are available throughout the metro. Learn more and register at www.KansasCityYMCA.org/ Camp. See display ad on pg. 43.

Youthfront Youthfront Camp has provided a fun and faith-building camp experience to boys and girls for more than 75 years. We offer day camp for younger campers and overnight stays for elementary, middle and high school students.

All camps include splash parks, theme nights, zip-lines and more. At Youthfront, kids can grow in their relationship with God and make friendships that last a lifetime! Learn more and register at www.Youthfront.com/summercamp.

See display ad on pg. 42.

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45

A

Benefits from getting kids in the kitchen are boundless, and s any parent knows, making sure your kiddos try new when they help prepare the food, they are more likely to eat it, foods, yet enjoy their all-time favorites, can be a chore. even broccoli! Kitchen duty is a good place to teach a bit of math, Even if chicken nuggets, mac and cheese and chocolate science, geography and even history as you mix and measure items. milk will satisfy most on a daily basis, stepping outside Don’t think of your children as picky eaters. Try to get that the proverbial box and being adventurous are fun. closed mouth open by serving meals family style, allowing kids Switch up your routine by scheduling a night for the kids to to have choice and autonomy in what goes onto their plates, even cook! Mark on the calendar the day they get to make their own making sure each dish is a “hello bite.” dinner for the family. Get stickers for your calendar for different Talk about the ingredients in foods. Why is there so much sugar theme nights. Then with a little help from you, depending on their in cereal? Are those the best choices for schools to offer? And why ages, have the kids place the stickers on the nights they want to are sweet potatoes good for our bodies and brains? Or, what is the take over the cooking. history of quinoa, and how are potatoes farmed?

Sara Tebben Nadeau, local mother of Emma, 15, Claire, 13, Many of us may stress over having the Phillip, 11, and Alex, 8, loves cooking time to actually spend cooking with our with her kids. “Cooking with kids is kids. Truly, children often enjoy the jobs fun, but the biggest challenge with four parents don’t really like, such as drying kids with different tastes, ages from 8 to lettuce and trimming green beans. They 15, is finding meals they all enjoy,” she don’t have to be involved the entire time says. Definitely, I have to plan ahead and but may happily come whisk marinade let them know when they get to cook, or toss salad. And they can actually carry because all are busy with activities and the dinner to the table. sports. Their favorite is spaghetti, but Make this time fun! Play music that they all like it different, so it’s a great one matches the meal, such as Frank Sinatra for them to help prepare!” for pasta, Jimmy Buffet for cheeseburgers Nadeau’s older daughter cooks the and Disney music for ice cream! Cooking pasta, while the two youngest (both boys) and eating should be filled with joy, and set the table and place meatballs on a pan you can be creative and find ways your for baking. After the meatballs are baked, Benefits of involving whole family can relish this time. the 8-year-old takes some off the pan for children with meal prep Any time children can see their his no-sauce pasta dish. Then in a small family actually sitting together and pan, the 13-year-old warms up her noeating something they had a hand in meat sauce. “This is how we get spaghetti preparing, their self-confidence done at my house,” Nadeau says. grows to strive for other life As Nadeau points out, giving your goals, from passing their spelling kids the freedom to choose what they tests to trying out for the want on their spaghetti is a great school play. idea, as is allowing them to pick the meal they want to cook.

One retired teacher believes that “kids who Judy Goppert lives in cook, eat,” and thinks Lee’s Summit. She enjoys cooking can be the drawing on her personal foundation for a healthy, experiences to write about wholesome life. She the nuances of everything recommends using naturally wonderful about life. chaotic Mondays as an anchor for the week, the ideal day for kids to cook. This starts SOURCES: families off cooking TheKidsCookMonday.org and eating together EatingWell.com Romper.com each week.

kids in the kitchen

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kcparent.com march 2019

@steph.pollock

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on the road with kids

T

his past year, my husband and I had the pleasure of taking our children on a two-week cross-country trip.

When I told inquiring friends and family of our plans to spend a week of the expedition at Walt Disney World, they quickly smiled (many offering stories from their own times at the Happiest Place on Earth). But reviews were nothing short of mixed when I informed them that we would spend the remaining week—three days before Disney and four days after— road tripping and hitting pitstop-worthy destinations along the way.

“Why would you elect to drive 17 hours when you could fly there in a mere three hours?” some wanted to know.

“You’re braver than I am!” others quipped.

“Bless your sweet hearts,” still more commiserated (which, if you don’t speak Southern, this translates roughly to, “Are you out of your mind?!”).

It’s true. Driving thirty-two hours in a minivan with three young children might seem like the ultimate test in patience, but our reasons for making the trek far outweighed the disadvantages. For starters, my husband had earned a sabbatical from work that granted him three weeks of paid time off. In no other circumstance could

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we say we had time on our hands, but in our given situation, we really did. Instead of just trying to get to our destination as quickly as possible, our priorities shifted.

A well-known joke quips about needing a vacation to recover from your vacation, and the whole notion of rushing and cramming “all the things” into our days didn’t strike us as desirable. (Plus, we knew we’d do our fair share of rushing about at Disney. Why make that the hallmark of the entire trip?).

No, it made sense to slow down, take in the scenery and view the drive as a bonus vacation of sorts. Second, making the drive into a celebrated road trip afforded our family the opportunity to see areas of the country that otherwise were foreign to us.

Call us conservative, call us wimps. But in 10 years of parenting, my husband and I hadn’t taken our kids on a vacation beyond a six-hour drive (even most of those trips were repeat visits to favorite destinations like Branson or St. Louis). This change in scenery meant our kids would take in more than just farmland on either side of the highway. For the first time in their lives, they would view mountain ranges by way of meandering roads cut through the Smokies, find themselves dwarfed by the towering pines that flank the interstates of Georgia and sink their toes deep into

Florida’s ocean-wet sand. For kids that had memorized their states and capitals the year prior, this was a field trip like no other, making places on the map come to life. And you know what we found out through it all?

We had sold ourselves short. Our kids really were champion road trippers!

How to Rock a Long Car Ride with Kids Reach Out to Seasoned Travelers It’s not beneath me to admit I’m a longdistance traveling newbie. So before we set out for our big adventure, I got all the advice I could from friends who were seasoned pros at traveling with kids. My friend Sarah, a mom of five with extended family in northern Michigan, is no stranger to long car trips, and she was happy to share things that worked well for her family (as well as things that didn’t).

It’s because of her I learned tips about snack rationing and how to have media work for you, not against you, in the car (see below!).

Do Your Research but Be Flexible In preparation for our trip, I began researching landmarks, historical sites, and award-winning restaurants that would be along the way. I had mapped out a very detailed itinerary for our drive but what I couldn’t foresee was that my husband would

sustain a back injury that left him unable to drive the first several days of our trip.

As you can imagine, many of our plans changed, but it didn’t mean that we didn’t have a great time. When planning trips, a number of things are simply outside your control: weather, car reliability, sickness and traffic (among many others). Just remember that sometimes the most memorable highlights of a trip can happen by accident.

Come Armed with Boredom Busters Perhaps the most dreaded refrain parents expect to hear on long car trips is, “Are we there yet?” Obviously, if kids don’t feel like they have anything to do, getting to an intended destination is all they can think about. One of the ways we curtailed the requests was by offering new activities, games and snacks in regular increments throughout our days. With something new to look forward to at every hour, everyone remained on their toes, and the focus was less on the final destination and more on what new thing was coming around the bend.

Ration Out the Special Treats Before we hit the road, I built a collection of special new items to take with us, ranging from art supplies to small toys to audiobooks. But the only way for this collection to have any long-term appeal was if it remained fresh and new.

So, instead of giving each child a goody bag at the start of the trip, I held onto the bags and let them pick one new treat at the top of the hour. As recommended by my friend Sarah, we reserved snacks and drinks until the hour before we planned designated stops to avoid unnecessary bathroom breaks (snacks were all prepackaged items that could be thrown from the pilot’s seat to the back without any mess, and drinks all had straws).

Perhaps the most coveted treat of all was movie time—nothing compared to it. For this reason, we always reserved it for the last leg of each day’s journey, because if we offered it sooner, requests for more movies would become the new “Are we there yet?”

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Lauren Greenlee is a freelance writer and Olathe boy mom of three who is already feverishly planning her next road trip with her crazy crew.

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WISCONSIN DELLS 50

kcparent.com march 2019

FUN DREAM TRIPS

These three fun dream trips make a great spring break getaway from Kansas City. From waterparks to dolphins, grizzly bears to tv shows, discover some of our favorite getaways.

Wisconsin Dells: The Waterpark Capital of America

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he Wilderness Resort (511 E. Adams St., Wisconsin Dells, WI, WildernessResort.com) is the perfect getaway destination for the entire family. With four indoor waterparks, the resort area truly has something for everyone. The park offers slides for single riders, two riders or even five.

My favorite was the Dueling Mammoths, a family raft ride for up to five riders. However, the girls especially loved the Hurricane, the tallest indoor four-person raft ride in the Dells. Riders are shot through a tunnel ride at a 45-degree angle into a 58-foot drop where they enter a funnel at 20 mph and splash into the water below. In addition to thrilling slides and tube rides, the girls loved playing in the nation’s largest indoor wave pool, riding the lazy river and enjoying kid features throughout the park. In addition to the waterpark, the resort offers other fun family attractions to be enjoyed with a fun card, including indoor go-karts, laser tag, laser maze, 3D mini golf and an indoor sky ropes course that is the best indoor ropes course we’ve tried. The resort offers

Ripley’s Believe It or Not

Wilderness Resort

numerous restaurants and gift shops, and rooms come equipped with fridges and microwaves, making this a one-stop vacation getaway.

The Dells also offer a variety of family attractions. Our family loves the fun of escape rooms and puzzle solving, so Wizard Quest (105 Broadway, Wisconsin Dells, WI, WizardQuest.com) was an especially fun experience.

Teams work together to solve a mystery pertaining to wizards or dragons (they offer different challenges for various ages or group sizes). You have an hour to explore the wizards’ realm, where the castle ambiance and décor set the stage for a magical adventure using technology, puzzles and physical elements. Ripley’s Believe It or Not (115 Broadway, Wisconsin Dells, WI, RipleysDells.com) is a museum for tweens, teens and up featuring exhibits showcasing bizarre and unbelievable attractions, including a duct tape room and more than 200 unusual artifacts, including our favorite, an Egyptian temple where you make discoveries in an interactive exhibit. In town, you’ll find a variety of family-friendly dining options, including Buffalo Phil’s, where trains deliver food to your table, Moosejaw Pizza, where you may dine in or have pizza delivered via a car decorated with a moose on top, or other great restaurants. Be sure to stop at one of the many cheese shops en route and try some of Wisconsin’s famous cheese curds. And, on your way to the Dells, you might drive through Mount Horeb, WI, the Troll Capital of America (Trollway.com), where local businesses embrace their Scandinavian heritage and you can spot trolls throughout the town. Or, stop in Pleasant Prairie, WI, to take a free Jelly Belly tour (JellyBelly.com/WisconsinWarehouse). For even more ideas and inspiration on your Wisconsin getaway, visit KCParent.com.

Wizard Quest

Shedd Aquarium

C

Navy Pier

For a truly memorable experience, we enjoyed the one-of-a-kind dinner theater that is Medieval Times. The experience begins before the show when you enter the castle and take photos with cast members or seated on royal thrones. See the horses and the falconer, or pay an extra fee to visit a small on-site museum. Then, guests are seated around the arena and assigned a knight to cheer for during the competition. You’ll feast—with fingers only—on “dragon blood,” “baby dragons” and other Medieval delicacies (resembling chicken, soup, bread and corn), while knights compete right before your eyes. The cast is in character the entire time with many surprises throughout the show, including knights throwing flowers to the audience, much fanfare and cheering, and many surprises. This was a highlight of our trip.

We also tried some of Chicago’s signature dishes, including Giordano’s pizza, where their signature deepdish takes 45 minutes to prepare. The location near the Skydeck was perfect on our itinerary. Then, we took advantage of a Groupon to try Superdawg, a local drivein serving Chicago-style hot dogs.

For even more tips for your Chicago getaway, visit KCParent.com.

CHICAGO

Chicago: The Windy City hicago offers so much to see and do that one could easily spend an entire week. We chose to focus on the most unique attractions, starting with Navy Pier. With a view of Lake Michigan, Navy Pier is home to numerous restaurants, shops and attractions, including the 200-foot Navy Pier Ferris Wheel. Each gondola accommodates up to eight passengers for an amazing view of the city skyline and the Great Lake. Nearby, Crystal Gardens is a beautiful indoor garden with fountains, ideal for photos. Chicago is also home to world-class museums and attractions.

Our favorite was Shedd Aquarium, an amazing indoor aquarium with thousands of animals. From sharks to sea horses, beluga whales to dolphins, we encountered so much. Admission includes the dolphin show and live animal talks, but you do need to secure your free ticket early to see the show. The aquarium is set up like a wheel, and you can choose each spoke as you go. Our family chose to map out exploration based on the talks and presentations, and that worked perfectly. The Museum of Science and Industry is the largest science museum in the Western Hemisphere. Highlights include a U-505 submarine, the only German U-boat captured during World War II and one of only five U-boats left in the world; the Pioneer Zephyr, America’s first diesel electric, streamlined, stainless steel passenger train; a mirror maze; exhibits on storms, the human body, energy, earth and coal mining; an interactive transportation gallery; future inventions; space exploration; trains; and genetics.

Kids love ToyMaker 3000, where they learn about automated manufacturing and robotics and watch as 12 robots assemble 300 colorful “gravitron” toy tops in an hour. A visit to Chicago would be incomplete without a visit to Skydeck on the 103rd floor of the Willis Tower (formerly the Sears Tower) From that vantage point, you can snap photos in clear observation boxes and, on a clear day, see an incredible view of Chicago, Lake Michigan and up to four states.

Photo by Brenna Hernandez/Shedd Aquarium

The Museum of Science and Industry

kcparent.com march 2019

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OKLAHOMA

O

Oklahoma: Face to Face with Bears … and Food Network Adventures

ur third daughter LOVES bears. We were thrilled to discover that the Oklahoma City Zoo (2101 NE 50th St., Oklahoma City, OKCZoo.org) offers Wild Encounters programs. Some of our dearest friends live in Oklahoma, and two of their daughters have special needs and use wheelchairs. The zookeepers were completely accommodating to our entire group (all ages and abilities) and took us behind the scenes to teach us about the majestic animals. Then, each child was given the opportunity to personally feed a grizzly bear!

Visit KCParent.com for the full scoop and see videos of the experience in action. The zoo is beautiful and accessible. We enjoyed feeding giraffes, riding the train and carousel, and making our own souvenirs in the Mold-O-Matic.

In Oklahoma City, be sure to visit Bricktown, the 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 enjoy water taxi rides. The rides include a tour of the area with a bit of history and humor.

For the adventurous, Riversport Adventures in the Oklahoma Boathouse District (800 Riversport Dr., Oklahoma City, 405.552.4040) is 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-ofthe-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

Pioneer Woman’s Lodge

rope and balance beam challenges. Once you reach the top, you may exit via zip line, a 72-foot Sky Slide or the 80-foot Rumble Drop free-fall jump experience! The park also features children’s attractions, gigantic slides and climbing walls. Tip: For prices and height/size requirements for attractions before planning your trip, visit RiverSportOKC.org/adventures.

Some of our other Oklahoma City favorites include the National Cowboy Museum, celebrating Oklahoma’s cowboy heritage, the Oklahoma Railway Museum, offering train rides for passengers of all abilities, the Science Museum of Oklahoma, an incredible interactive science museum, and the Museum of Osteology, the only museum of osteology (the study of bones and skeletons) in the world.

Visit KCParent.com for more tips and information.

We are also fans of Food Network shows and especially enjoy Pioneer Woman. We took a detour through Pawhuska, OK, where we ate lunch at the Pioneer Woman’s Mercantile, visited the store and even took a tour of the Lodge, where the show is filmed. Lodge tours are offered free on select dates; simply check the site for information (TheMercantile.com/pages/lodge-tours).

Oklahoma Railway Museum

Oklahoma City Zoo

These are just a few of our favorite family getaways. If you’re looking for more inspiration for your spring break travel, visit KCParent.com.

Kristina Light enjoys making memories with her family not only in Kansas City, but on the road as well.

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70+ RESTAURANTS. 10 BARS. 5 STAGES.

FRIDAY, JUNE 7TH | 7:30 PM – MIDNIGHT

Tickets can be purchased for $175 at Jazzookc.org Jazzoo is the Kansas City Zoo’s largest fundraiser and your attendance helps us feed and care for more than 1,700 animals and educate Kansas City youth through our Zoo Learning Fund.

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march

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

CALENDAR

Spring Open House at Family Tree Nursery

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

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play

enjoy

visit

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The Coterie presents Mr. Popper’s Penguins thru March 31. Charming musical adaptation of the beloved book telling of Mr. and Mrs. Popper’s adventures.

TheCoterie.org

Visit Legoland Discovery Center for The Lego Movie Days thru March 30. Join the gang for exclusive activities, photo opportunities and more.

816.556.3245

Head to the Spring Open House March 16 & 17 at Family Tree Nursery (Overland Park).

Enjoy display gardens and in-store specials. Lots of activities for kids!

FamilyTreeNursery.com

Head to Planet Comicon March 29-31 at Bartle Hall. The region’s largest comic book and pop culture convention.

Fun for the entire family!

PlanetComicon.com

See The Little Mermaid March 31 at 2:00 & 7:00 at the Olathe South Performing Arts Center. Miller Marley performs the beloved tale.

MillerMarley.com

1 Friday

2 Saturday

Ice Skating 11:00, Crown Center Ice Terrace.

Spend the day skating with the family on Kansas City’s only outdoor rink. CrownCenter.com

Happy Birthday, Dr Seuss! Take time to read some of your favorite Dr Seuss stories today.

Search “Seuss” on KCParent.com for Seussian inspiration!

Spring Open House Today & tomorrow, Downtown Lee’s Summit. Merchants will feature new items for spring. Enter to win a shopping spree! DowntownLS.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.

Campus Visit Day 1:30, Summit Christian Academy. Visit the school to see all we have to offer your children. RSVP to 816.525.1480.

First Fridays 5:00, Crossroads Arts District.

Galleries and shops remain open the first Friday of each month. KCCrossroads.org The Little Mermaid Thru Sunday, Bell Cultural Events Center. CYT presents this fishy fable with irresistible songs. CYTKC.org Indoor Snowball Hunt 8:00, Blue Springs Fieldhouse. March 1’s forecast is calling for a snow shower with a chance of prizes! Ages 5-10. Pre-reg at BlueSpringsGov.com.

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Wander Where 8:00, Overland Park Arboretum.

Celebrate National Day of Unplugging by pledging to unplug with us at the arboretum.

OPKansas.org Free ACT Practice Test 9:00, MCPL (Blue Springs). Practice tests designed to provide students an assessment of where they might score on the ACT. Pre-reg at MyMCPL.org.

Girl Scout Cookie Construction Thru March 23, Crown Center Shops. See one-of-a-kind displays made entirely of empty Girl Scout cookie boxes.

816.274.8444 Early Explorations 10:00 & 2:00, Nerman Museum. Learn about woven art and then create a layered design. Ages 5-7. Pre-reg at NermanMusuem.org.

Bird Banding 10:00, Burroughs Audubon Nature Center. See the beauty of birds up close and personal. A wonderful nature activity for families! Free. Burroughs.org

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 Happy Birthday, Dr Seuss 1:00, Olathe Downtown Library. Help us celebrate Dr Seuss’s birthday with a wacky assortment of crafts and games! OlatheLibrary.org

3 Sunday Farmers Market 9:00, the City Market. The market is open year-round and offers a variety of fresh produce, meat, specialty groceries and more. TheCityMarket.org art + family = FUN 1:00, Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Join us every Saturday and Sunday for free activities for all ages!

816.751.1278 Free Afternoon Program 1:30, Prairie Park Nature Center. Free program for the family may include video, slide show and going outside to enjoy nature. LawrenceKS.org

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Preschool - 12th Grade • Biblically Integrated • College Preparatory • MSHSAA Member

Join Us for One of Our Campus Visit Days

1-3 p.m.

March 1, April 12 or May 3 Call 816.525.1480 to RSVP or for more information.

Summit Christian Academy

1450-1500 SW Jefferson, Lee’s Summit MO 64081 • 816.525.1480 • summit-christian-academy.org kcparent.com march 2019

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4 Monday Journey to Oz 10:00, Crown Center. Tour the world of the Munchkins, follow Dorothy and her friends down the Yellow Brick Road and more.

Free. CrownCenter.com Let’s Go Luna! KCPT Kids. All new adventures with Luna and her three friends, a wombat, butterfly and frog, begin today! KCPTKids.org Free Adult Admission 9:30, Paradise Park. Free adult admission in Discovery Play with a paid child’s admission. 816.246.5224 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 Monday Night Madness 4:00, Main Event.

Choose from three super specials, each just $10.95. Available Mondays 4:00-close.

MainEvent.com

5 Tuesday Dinosaurs Revealed 10:00, Union Station. Take a hands-on trek that brings you face to face with 26 life-size dinosaurs. UnionStation.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)

Creative Story Time 10:30, Ceramic Café.

Hear a story, paint pottery and enjoy a snack. $12. Save $2 when you mention KC Parent.

CeramicCafe.com

6 Wednesday

Toddler Time 10:00, Sky Zone. A time for little ones to bounce under the supervision of their parents and without interference from the big kids. SkyZone.com

FREE LESSON!

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 kcparent.com march 2019

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

UrbanAirTrampolinePark.com

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

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

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Mr Popper’s Penguins 10:00 & Noon, the Coterie. Charming musical adaptation of the beloved book telling of Mr and Mrs Popper’s adventures. TheCoterie.org

Baby Story Time 10:30, Cedar Roe Library.

A lap-sit story time with songs, rhymes and movement for babies birth through 18 months with a caregiver. JoCoLibrary.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. KCAutoShow.com

7 Thursday Toddler Time 2.0 9:30, Blue Springs Fieldhouse.

Play inside the fieldhouse on mats, scooters, slides, a bounce house and more. $2-$3.

BlueSpringsGov.com The Amazing Brain 10:00, Science City. Visit and see the huge new exhibit, the Amazing Brain, opening today! UnionStation.org KCPT Kids Writers Contest Thru March 29.

Calling all young authors and illustrators!

Kindergarten through third-graders are invited to submit stories. KCPT.org Toddle Time 10:00, Bonner Springs Community Center. Bring little ones 9 months through 5 years to play on the large assortment of toys. $2. BonnerSprings.org Open House 5:00, Borromeo Academy.

Learn how Classical Education awakens the extraordinary within every child. Meet teachers and take a tour. 816.436.1009

8 Friday Scribble Workshop 10:00, Kansas City North Community Center. A child/parent art event with a different theme each month. Dress for mess! 816.513.7741

For Children Draw Like Audubon Youth Sculpture Studio

Raspberry Spring Expo Today & tomorrow, The Pavilion at John Knox Village. Handcrafted goods by local artists, along with home décor, lawn and garden ideas. 816.463.3319

ForTeens Mixed Media Painting Fantasy Worlds

Fine Art Friday 1:00, Kemper Museum.

Interactive experiences in the galleries encourage students to examine art. Includes tour with docent. Free. KemperArt.org Family Bingo Night 6:00, Roeland Park Community Center. Kick off spring break with some family fun playing everyone’s favorite!

Pre-reg at JCPRD.com.

Father Daughter Masquerade Ball 6:00, Southeast Community Center. Dads, treat your little lady to a night of food and dancing!

816.513.0632 City Center Live 7:00, Community Forum (Lenexa City Hall). Grab a bite to eat from the Lenexa Public Market and come see a show!

Lenexa.com/citycenterlive

For Adults Intro to Adobe Photoshop Beginning Handlettering

Woodneath Library Center Saturday, April 13

Register early for these sessions AND MORE!

North Independence Branch Sunday, April 14

mymcpl.org/accessart

Mid-Continent Public Library presents all-day art events led by instructors from the Kansas City Art Institute and The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art with opportunities for you to create new works of art.

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Royals Day March 23 & 24, Kansas City Zoo. See the animals enjoy enrichment items like t-shirts, cups and rally towels and get a photo with Sluggerrr. KansasCityZoo.org

Night at the Arboretum 7:00, Overland Park Arboretum. Experience the arboretum like you never have before—at night! OPKansas.org

9 Saturday The Lego Movie Days 10:00, Legoland Discovery Center. Join the gang for exclusive building activities, photo opportunities and more. 816.556.3245 Barbie’s Big 60th Birthday Bash 10:00, The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures. Snap a photo, design a charm, join in a parade and more! 816.235.8000 Emerald Isle St Patrick’s Day Parade Noon, Downtown Lee’s Summit. Annual parade featuring floats, Irish dancers, musicians and more. DowntownLS.org Open Gym 12:30, Integrity Gymnastics. A great time to practice, get familiar with the gym and for kids to release energy. $6. IntegrityOP.com

Saturday Night Feeder Saturdays, 2:00, Cedar Cove Feline Sanctuary. Watch the cats being fed, weather permitting. $6$8. 816.739.0363 Second Saturdays 4:00, Downtown Weston. Stroll into unique gift shops and galleries for late-night shopping and in-store specials. WestonMO.com

10 Sunday St Patrick’s Parade 2:00, Martin City. Parade features a mix of floats, dance teams, schools, businesses, car clubs and more. MartinCity.org

Daylight Saving Time Begins Ice Skating 10:00, Crown Center Ice Terrace.

Spend the day skating with the family on Kansas City’s only outdoor rink. Last day for the season! CrownCenter.com

Sir James Galway 7:00, Carlsen Center. Enjoy a performance by the living legend of the flute, Sir James Galway. JCCC.edu/theseries

St Patrick’s Day Parade 1:00, Downtown Shawnee. Cheer for all the great parade entries and enjoy the variety of activities.

CityOfShawnee.org

The Stinky Cheese Man 7:00, Blue Springs Civic Center. Adaptation of quintessential children’s book of fractured fairy tales.

BlueSpringsCityTheatre.com

Come celebrate with me! /

TAKE A little TIME FOR SOME BIG FUN IN MARCH BARBIE’S BIG 60th BIRTHDAY BASH / MARCH 9 | 10AM–4PM Snap a keepsake photo, design a charm bracelet, join in a fashion parade MARBLE LESSONS / MARCH 11–24 | 10:30AM AND 1:30PM Learn how to play this classic game

/ There will be cake.

KC MARBLE TOURNAMENT / MARCH 30 | 10AM–2PM Ages 7-15, enter to compete

Details / toyandminiaturemuseum.org The National Museum of Toys / Miniatures

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Wednesday through Monday, 10am– 4pm / Closed Tuesday / 816.235.8000 toyandminiaturemuseum.org / 5235 Oak Street, Kansas City, MO 64112

11 Monday Day Camp Thru March 15, Code Ninjas. Spend spring break with activities that include coding, game-building, robotics and more. Pre-reg at CodeNinjas.com.

Open Play 10:00, Urban Air. Bring the kids in for a little sweat and a lot of bounce! Special spring break hours. UrbanAirOP.com Spring Fling Fun 10:00, Ernie Miller Nature Center. Park staff will entertain guests with a special program. $3. 913.826.2800 Passport to the Caribbean 10:00, MCPL (Boardwalk Branch). Kids will explore Caribbean culture playing games, creating a craft and dancing. Pre-reg at MyMCPL.org.

Marble Lessons Thru March 24, the National Museum of Toys and Miniatures. Discover the game of marbles with your entire family!

Lessons at 10:30 & 1:30. 816.235.8000

Want More in Life?

Here’s a way to experience the joy of parenthood and help children

4,000 Kansas City area children are in crisis due to child abuse, neglect or other family challenges. The need for new foster and adoptive parents is greater than ever.

Whether you are single or married, own or rent your home, have children already or don’t, work full-time or stay home, you may qualify.

We provide free training, 24/7 support, and monthly reimbursement to meet the child’s needs.

Cookie Decorating 2:00, Olathe Indian Creek Library. Cookies and frosting and sprinkles— oh my! It’s time to decorate cookies.

OlatheLibrary.org Monday Night Madness 4:00, Main Event.

Choose from three super specials, each just $10.95. Available Mondays 4:00-close.

MainEvent.com

12 Tuesday Kids Day Out 7:30, Johnson County Museum.

Have fun while school is out! Explore history though crafts and projects, visit KidScape and more! 913.715.2570

Contact us to learn more. (888) 655-5500 | www.kvckansas.org

head to kcparent.com for

Journey to Oz 10:00, Crown Center. Tour the world of the Munchkins, follow Dorothy and her friends down the Yellow Brick Road and more.

Free. CrownCenter.com

kids eat

Dinosaurs Revealed 10:00, Union Station. Take a hands-on trek that brings you face to face with 26 life-size dinosaurs. UnionStation.org

(or cheap) guide

Creative Story Time 10:30, Ceramic Café.

Hear a story, paint pottery and enjoy a snack. $12. Save $2 when you mention KC Parent.

CeramicCafe.com

13 Wednesday Visit Science City 10:00, Union Station. Spend spring break at Science City and see new exhibit, the Amazing Brain. UnionStation.org Splash with Me 10:00, Lenexa Rec Center. Kids can swim, play and become more confident in the water at the kiddie pool. $2. 913.477.710

FREE

the BEST resource for finding places all over kc where kids eat for FREE (or really cheap)! kcparent.com march 2019

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Celebrate March KC Style

March 1: Peanut Butter Lover’s Day Treat yourself to some fabulous peanut butter pie, courtesy of the Mixing Bowl Noshery (2934 Southwest Blvd., Kansas City, MO, 816.491.9127), a cozy locally-owned diner known for fabulous lunch and breakfast.

March 10: Middle Name Pride Day Harry S. Truman, the president from Independence, has long been known simply as Harry S. Truman. But what does the S stand for exactly? Discover the answer on a visit to the Truman Presidential Library (500 W. US Hwy. 24, Independence).

March 14: Pi Day March 14 is every math geek’s favorite holiday! Celebrate Pi Day with a deal (find them all at PiDay.org) or spend the day celebrating at Science City at Union Station (30 W. Pershing Rd., Kansas City, MO), where hands-on learning is always fun!

March 19: Tea for Two Day Enjoy a nice tea at a local tea room. Henry’s Tea Room (401 SE Douglas St., Lee’s Summit, 816.524.3992) in downtown Lee’s Summit houses an antique shop and is close to many great shops. Find more tea rooms on KCParent.com.

March 30: Take a Walk in the Park Day The metro offers so many beautiful parks to enjoy, but we’ll always love Penguin Park (4124 NE Vivion Rd., Kansas City, MO) for its giant animals and Antioch Park (6501 Antioch Rd., Merriam, KS) for its beautiful trails and Old West town.

Open Gym Noon, Integrity Gymnastics. A great time to practice, get familiar with the gym and for kids to release energy. $6. IntegrityOP.com GeoKids 1:00, Overland Park Arboretum. A brief presentation on maps, directions and using a compass, followed by a treasure hunt.

OPKansas.org Wildlife Critter Feeding 3:00, Burr Oak Woods.

Discover what’s for dinner as the captive amphibians, fish and turtles enjoy their feast.

816.228.3766

Major League Improv 7:00, Comedy City. A comedy sporting event where everything is based on suggestions from the audience. $9$13. 816.842.2744

16 Saturday St Patrick’s Day Today & tomorrow, Kansas City Zoo. See animals enjoy festive enrichments items and get your picture taken with a leprechaun. KansasCityZoo.org

14 Thursday

Spring Open House Today & tomorrow, Family Tree Nursery (Overland Park). Enjoy display gardens and in-store specials. Petting zoo, face painting and more! FamilyTreeNursery.com

Spring Break Scavenger Hunt Shawnee Library. Drop in to receive a scavenger hunt list and follow a series of clues across the library.

JoCoLibrary.org

City Imagineerium 10:00, Pierson Hall (UMKC).

Kids are invited to spend the day building the city of their dreams! $10-$15. 816.914.3115

Mr Popper’s Penguins 10:00 & Noon, the Coterie. Charming musical adaptation of the beloved book telling of Mr and Mrs Popper’s adventures. TheCoterie.org Girl Scout Cookie Construction Thru March 23, Crown Center Shops. See one-of-a-kind displays made entirely of empty Girl Scout cookie boxes. 816.274.8444 Pay for Play 10:00, Backyard Specialists.

Kids will enjoy our outdoor play sets that are available for open play. $2/cash. 913.307.6023

Scavenger Saturdays 10:00, Kemper Museum of Art. Children with adults follow the clues on this “ART-tastic” adventure. KemperArt.org Hands-On History 11:00, National World War I Museum and Memorial. History is brought to life.

Handle Great War artifacts. TheWorldWar.org Snake Saturday Festival and Parade 10:00, North Kansas City. Family fun area with pony rides, petting zoo, airbrush tattoos and more!

Parade at 11:00. SnakeSaturday.com

15 Friday

Brookside St Patrick’s Day Warm-Up Parade 2:00, Brookside. Family fun event! Parade starts at 65th & Wornall. BrooksideKC.org

Ladies Day 9:00, Family Tree Nursery (all locations). Receive 20% off entire purchase of regularly priced items. Music, wine and appetizers 3:30-7:00. FamilyTreeNursery.com

St Patrick’s Day Parade 5:00, Memorial Park (Belton). Community parade celebrating St Patrick’s Day! Belton.org

Spring Break Living History 10:00, Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop. Experience 1860s living history with cookstove and blacksmith demonstrations and more. 913.971.5111 Junior Jaunts 10:15, Nelson-Atkins Museum.

Bring your baby in a stroller or carrier and enjoy an adult-focused, baby-friendly mini museum tour. Nelson-Atkins.org Paint Me a Story 10:30, Paint, Glaze & Fire.

Paint a pottery piece that goes along with a favorite story. Snack included. $13-$15. Pre-reg at 913.661.2529.

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

EnglewoodStation.com

17 Sunday ST PATRICK’S DAY St Patrick’s Day Parade 11:00, along Broadway (KCMO). The parade has become KC’s largest single-day civic event, as well as one of the largest parades in the nation. KCIrishParade.com Children’s Literature Festival Thru Tuesday, University of Central Missouri. Thirty-two authors and illustrators present to kids and adults clf.UCMO.edu St Patrick’s Parade & Festival 1:30, Downtown Lawrence. Celebrate St Patrick’s Day with a parade and festival!

LawrenceStPatricksDayParade.com

Leavenworth St Patrick’s Day Parade 1:00, Fourth & Walnut. Celebrate all things Irish with the parade. LVIrish.com

18 Monday Journey to Oz 10:00, Crown Center. Tour the world of the Munchkins, follow Dorothy and her friends down the Yellow Brick Road and more.

Free. CrownCenter.com Indoor Play Park 9:00, New Century Fieldhouse. Hop, skip and jump through obstacles, bounce and kick balls, build with blocks and more! $3. 913.826.2850 Free Adult Admission 9:30, Paradise Park. Free adult admission in Discovery Play with a paid child’s admission. 816.246.5224 School Program 10:00, Mt Gilead Historic School & Church. Historic interpretation of selected theme, craft and games. $10. Pre-reg at 816.736.8500.

Amado & Karen’s Teen Junkyard Orchestra 2:00, MCPL (North Oak). Make instruments and music while learning resourcefulness, selfesteem and more. Pre-reg at MyMCPL.org.

19 Tuesday KCPT Kids Writers Contest Thru March 29.

Calling all young authors and illustrators!

Kindergarten through third-graders are invited to submit stories. KCPT.org Dinosaurs Revealed 10:00, Union Station. Take a hands-on trek that brings you face to face with 26 life-size dinosaurs. UnionStation.org Dragonfire 10:00, MCPL (Parkville Branch). A brand new marionette revue by StoneLion Puppet Theatre. See mermaids, fairy rings and dragons. Pre-reg at MyMCPL.org.

Crafternoon 1:00, ScrapsKC. One-hour workshop where kids explore mixing colors by melting crayon shavings to create a suncatcher.

Pre-reg at ScrapsKC.org.

20 Wednesday Indoor Playground 9:30, Sylvester Powell Community Center. Developmental toys, inflatable and more for kids in a safe, clean indoor play area. 913.722.8200 Retro Story Time 10:00, Johnson County Museum. Enjoy Four Little Kittens and an art activity for little hands. JCPRD.com/museum

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Planet Comicon March 29-31, Bartle Hall. The region’s largest comic book and pop culture convention.

Fun for the entire family! PlanetComicon.com

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

21 Thursday Toddler Time 2.0 9:30, Blue Springs Fieldhouse.

Play inside the fieldhouse on mats, scooters, slides, a bounce house and more. $2-$3.

BlueSpringsGov.com Girl Scout Cookie Construction Thru March 23, Crown Center Shops. See one-of-a-kind displays made entirely of empty Girl Scout cookie boxes. 816.274.8444

Playdate Thursdays 11:00, Independence Center. Each playdate includes a craft and reading from Mid-Continent Public Library. Free.

816.795.8602 Homework Help 4:00, Central Resource Library. Homework coaches help students work on a specific project or use library resources. JoCoLibrary.org

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

UrbanAirTrampolinePark.com

Mr Popper’s Penguins 10:00, Noon & 7:00, the Coterie. Charming musical adaptation of the beloved book telling of Mr and Mrs Popper’s adventures. TheCoterie.org

Me and Mini Me Swim 9:00, Olathe Community Center. Parents and children 5 and under can swim in zero-depth area of pool. $6.

913.971.8676

Journey to Oz 10:00, Crown Center. Tour the world of the Munchkins, follow Dorothy and her friends down the Yellow Brick Road and more.

Free. CrownCenter.com

kansas city’s best waffles

Celebrate Waffle Day on March 25 at one of these great local eateries.

Best Waffle Experience

Best Chicken and Waffles

Defy norms with a visit to the Waffle Bar (Facebook.com/TheWaffleBarKC), where they serve Bubble Waffles filled with ice cream, Waffle Pops coated with favorite cereals and toppings, and waffle donuts to satisfy all of your waffle cravings!

RC’s Restaurant (RCSChicken.com).

This family-style restaurant in the heart of Martin City is known for the best fried chicken in Kansas City, and their signature chicken and waffles is an all-time favorite for locals.

Best Diner Style

Best Belgian Waffles

Kate’s Kitchen ( KatesKitchenKC.com).

Kate’s Kitchen serves up diner-style meals with the freshest ingredients and friendly service. Even among a variety of breakfast items, waffles remain a favorite. Adventurous patrons love “the King,” waffles topped with warm peanut butter, bananas, powdered sugar and butter!

Best Variety The Big Biscuit (BigBiscuitRestaurant.com).

You won’t leave hungry after a trip here!

You may order Belgian waffles dusted with powdered sugar and topped with whipped cream: strawberries, chocolate chip, banana chocolate chip, pecan, cranberry pecan, or red, white and blue (strawberries, bananas, blueberries).

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We love, love, love both of these breakfast and brunch eateries and, frankly, picking a favorite was too hard … we’ll let you decide!

First Watch (FirstWatch.com). First Watch is one of the most popular breakfast eateries in Kansas City. You’ll love their delicious and nutritious breakfast menu with an outstanding array of items, including their Belgian waffle—a light and airy waffle with a side of warm mixed berry compote.

Eggtc. (EggtcKC.com). Known for their eggs—from omelets to eggs Benedict to any breakfast egg preparation you can imagine—they also serve a delicious Belgian waffle with fruit compote and a dusting of powdered sugar and cinnamon!

23 Saturday

24 Sunday

Royals Day Today & tomorrow, Kansas City Zoo. See the animals enjoy enrichment items like t-shirts, cups and rally towels and get a photo with Sluggerrr. KansasCityZoo.org

Farmers Market 9:00, the City Market. The market is open year-round and offers a variety of fresh produce, meat, specialty groceries and more. TheCityMarket.org

Eat Local & Organic Expo 11:00, Johnson County Community College. Meet and buy directly from local organic farmers, small-batch artisans and more. KCFoodCircle.org

Open House 11:30, the Jewish Community Center. See all we have to offer! We’ll have inflatables, food and fun for all ages! TheJKC.org

Preschool Open Gymnastics 11:00, Sports Pavilion (Lawrence). Open gym times for children ages 1-5 along with a parent. $5. LawrenceKS.org The Little Mermaid Tea Party Camp 2:00, Miller Marley. Craft, story time, dance routine and meet Ariel and Prince Eric! Ages 3-6. Pre-reg at 913.492.0004.

Comedy City at Culture House 7:00, Culture House Stage & Studio (Oak Park Mall). Five of the funniest improvisers create hilarious sketches. $10. CultureHouse.com Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain 8:00, Carlsen Center. Like Monty Python … with ukuleles! Over the past 29 years, they have entertained fans. JCCC.edu/theseries

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 Free Afternoon Program 1:30, Prairie Park Nature Center. Free program for the family may include video, slide show and going outside to enjoy nature. LawrenceKS.org

25 Monday Sesame Street Premier KCPT Kids. A new, one-hour special of the favorite children’s show premiers today! KCPTKids.org Indoor Play Park 9:00, New Century Fieldhouse. Hop, skip and jump through obstacles, bounce and kick balls, build with blocks and more! $3. 913.826.2850

Free Adult Admission 9:30, Paradise Park. Free adult admission in Discovery Play with a paid child’s admission. 816.246.5224 Monday Night Madness 4:00, Main Event.

Choose from three super specials, each just $10.95. Available Mondays 4:00-close.

MainEvent.com

26 Tuesday The Rainbow Fish 10:00 & 1:00, Carlsen Center.

New adaptation of Marcus Pfizer’s books about the beautiful fish who shares his most prized possession. JCCC.edu/theseries 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 Creative Story Time 10:30, Ceramic Café.

Hear a story, paint pottery and enjoy a snack. $12. Save $2 when you mention KC Parent.

CeramicCafe.com

27 Wednesday Splash with Me 10:00, Lenexa Rec Center. Kids can swim, play and become more confident in the water at the kiddie pool. $2. 913.477.710

NEW 2019 S EVENT

$5 OFF! Full-Price Admission

Present this coupon at Admissions or use promo code PARENT19 to buy tickets online.

Offer excludes combination packages and basic saver tickets. This coupon cannot be combined with any other discounts or offers.Valid through 2/29/2020.

KansasCity.LEGOLANDDiscoveryCenter.com ©2019 The LEGO Group.

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Toddler Time 10:00, Sky Zone. A time for little ones to bounce under the supervision of their parents and without interference from the big kids. SkyZone.com

School’s Out Geocache 11:00, Antioch Park.

Spend family time outdoors searching for hidden caches in this modern day scavenger hunt! Pre-reg at JCPRD.com.

Kansas City Marble Tournament 10:00, the National Museum of Toys and Miniatures.

Experience the thrill of marble competition!

Pre-reg to play at 816.235.8000.

Baby Story Time 10:30, Cedar Roe Library.

A lap-sit story time with songs, rhymes and movement for babies birth through 18 months with a caregiver. JoCoLibrary.org

Pete the Cat 9:45 & 11:30, the Folly Theater.

Pete is sent to live with the Biddle family to learn his manners. FollyTheater.org

Hands-On History 11:00, National World War I Museum and Memorial. History is brought to life.

Handle Great War artifacts. TheWorldWar.org

Planet Comicon Thru March 31, Bartle Hall.

The region’s largest comic book and pop culture convention. Fun for the entire family!

PlanetComicon.com

Passport to Adventure Kickoff Noon, Bass Pro Shop (Olathe). Visit booths and enjoy handson activities, then pick up your 2019 passport.

KCPassport.com

Major League Improv 7:00, Comedy City. A comedy sporting event where everything is based on suggestions from the audience. $9$13. 816.842.2744

Open Gym 12:30, Integrity Gymnastics. A great time to practice, get familiar with the gym and for kids to release energy. $6. IntegrityOP.com

28 Thursday Whirlwind: Art in Motion 8:00, Overland Park Arboretum. Bundle up to see sculptures that change in the light and wind throughout the garden. OPKansas.org Toddle Time 10:00, Bonner Springs Community Center. Bring little ones 9 months through 5 years to play on the large assortment of toys. $2. BonnerSprings.org

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

UrbanAirTrampolinePark.com

CHILDREN’S CONFERENCE

30 Saturday Contemporary Creations 10:00 & 2:00, Nerman Museum. Learn about sculptural ceramics in art and then create a clay sculpture.

Pre-reg at NermanMusuem.org.

The Lego Movie Days 10:00, Legoland Discovery Center. Join the gang for exclusive building activities, photo opportunities and more. 816.556.3245

VENDORS

The Little Mermaid 2:00 & 7:00, Olathe South Performing Arts Center. Miller Marley performs the beloved tale. MillerMarley.com

31 Sunday Hike Swope Park with a Naturalist 10:00, Lakeside Nature Center. Dress appropriately for the weather and enjoy a hike! KCParks.org art + family = FUN 1:00, Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Join us every Saturday and Sunday for free activities for all ages! 816.751.1278

WORKSHOPS

April 5-6, 2019

MPE Homeschool Conference & Curriculum Fair KCI Expo Center • 11730 North Ambassador Drive, KCMO 64153 Providing Information on Homeschooling Techniques & Curriculum Choices FEATURED SPEAKERS: TRICIA GOYER

STEVE LAMBERT

RAY AND ROBYN MCKELVY

ISRAEL WAYNE

MELINDA BORING

VICKI BENTLEY

More than 180 exhibitor booths

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

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an Earth-friendly home, lawn and garden event

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Our interactive virtual Hospital Labor & Delivery Guide has

HAVING A BABY SOON?

images, complete

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

social media links

descriptions, video, and much more.

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

! !

E C N E I D U A R THRILL YOU

Plan your spring/summer movie events TODAY before dates are sold out!

H G AT STARTIN

$295

11'

14'

19'

23 FEET LOCALLY OWNED

From MOVIES to VIDEO GAMES, SPORTING EVENTS to CONCERTS, we transform your venue into a world-class cinema.

H Residential H College Campuses H Parks & Pools

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H School Events H Churches / Weddings H Corporations

Outdoor Cinema • Special Events

913.424.9444 • Movies2U.com

ily n m a e F ractio t i r t o Fav dly At n Frie

AWARDED

BEST OF

KC

VISIT KC VISITORS’ CHOICE AWARDS

UNION STATION’S

Fun for the Whole Family!

Spring Break Blast!

• World-Class Touring Exhibitions: FINAL DAYS Dinosaurs Revealed closes March 24

B U R N S & M c D O N N E L L D E S I G N PA C K A G E

01/09/19

• Science City: Huge New Exhibit, THE AMAZING BRAIN, opens March 7 • New 4K Planetarium: Explore Our Universe Like Never Before • Regnier Extreme Screen Theatre: Educational & Feature Films on Largest Screen in Midwest • Year-Round Special Events and Celebrations • Restaurants, Retail and So Much More!

9

Proud to be a ™

Smithsonian Affiliate

.org n o i t a t S n o : Uni Plan your visit

kid-mergency for those dino-Sized emergencies.

Waiting long in the emergency room is ancient history. Our ERs are faster and exceed the national benchmark for treating pediatric emergencies. We’ll get your kids back to their roaring good times.

Learn more at KCkidsER.com.

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

* Message and data rates may apply. For more information visit texterhelp.com. ER wait times are approximate and provided for informational purposes only. If you are having a medical emergency, call 9-1-1.

ER CARE FOR KIDS & ADULTS

3530 A

Belton Belton Regional Medical Center I-49 (Hwy 71) & Hwy 58

Kansas City Research Medical Center Hwy 71 & Meyer Blvd.

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

ER of Brookside Rockhill Rd. & Holmes Rd.

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

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

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