KC Parent Magazine March 2013

FREE March 2014 KCParent.com Since 1985 Where you find family, you will find us.

LET’S CAMP! KC’s #1 CAMP GUIDE

Manners really do matter

are food dyes harmful for kids?

2x bigger than last year!

homework help & test prep kcparent.com march 2014

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physicians

lee’s

summit

group

Lee’s Summit Physicians 1425 N.W. Blue Parkway Lee’s Summit, Missouri 816.524.5600 LSPhysicians.com Raintree Pediatrics 995 SW 34th St. Lee’s Summit, Missouri 816.525.4700 Raintree-Pediatrics.com Blue Springs Pediatrics 1600 NW South Outer Road Blue Springs, Missouri 816.554.6520 BlueSpringsPediatric.com

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2013 WINNER

family faves

Lauren Lee, C-PNP Kelly R. Fritz, C-PNP Julie Kirkpatrick, C-PNP Camille Lucitto, C-PNP Cindy Fieser, C-PNP Sarah Dedrick, C-PNP Angela Stott, C-PNP Kimberly McNerney, C-PNP

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• Served as Secretary, Vice President and President of the Kansas Dental Association.

• Recipient of the Humanitarian Award from the Kansas Fifth District Dental Society.

• Pediatric Dental Coordinator for the Kansas Mission of Mercy since 2002.

• Appointed by the Governor to serve as a member of the Kansas Dental Board

ADHD? Learning Disability?

We don’t address address the Don’t the symptoms.

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kcparent.com march 2014

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MARCH 2014

DEPARTMENTS SPRING BREAK ADVENTURES, PG. 24

FEATURES

22

Food Dyes Do food dyes affect kids’ behavior?

30

Test Prep Step-by-step ideas for test preparations

48

10

Craft Corner

13

Women’s Health

16

Faith & Family

19

Word from Dad

22

Healthy Kids

47

Blog Bits

50

Media Mix

SPECIAL SECTIONS 20+ pages!

23

Party Guide

32

Camp Guide

52

Calendar of Events

Manners Matter Tips for civilizing children today

FREE March 2014 KCParent.com Since 1985 Where you find family, you will find us.

LET’S CAMP! KC’s #1 CAMP GUIDE

2x bigger than last year!

ON THE COVER Are Food Dyes Harmful?

22

Test Prep 30 Let’s Camp

32

Manners Really Do Matter

48

Manners really do matter

are food dyes harmful for kids?

homework & test prep help kcparent.com march 2014

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kcparent.com march 2014

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EDITOR’SLETTER MARCH 2014 Publisher Michael Gimotty Michael@KCParent.com

Enter to win 4 tickets to see the Kansas City Ballet’s Cinderella on Friday, May 16. Enter at KCParent.com.

A $320 value!

kcparent.com march 2014

Editor Margaret Sarver Margaret@KCParent.com Art Director Lauren Goldman Lauren@KCParent.com Advertising Sales Darrell Dean Lynn Hawkins Advertising@KCParent.com Electronic Media Manager Kristina Light Kristina@KCParent.com Event Calendar Susan Hawke Calendar@KCParent.com Proofreader Susan Crainshaw Susan@KCParent.com Distribution To be added to our distribution list, e-mail Distribution@KCParent.com

100% LOCAL

Local Contributing Writers Bill Bartlett (Belton), Rachel Boese (Gardner), Jennifer Bosse (Kansas City), Wendy Connelly (Overland Park), Jennifer Duxbury (Olathe), Amanda Gunter (Kansas City), Jessica Heine (Olathe), Megan Kapple (Kansas City), Gina Klein (Liberty), Christa Melnyk Hines (Olathe), Kristina Light (Kansas City), Jane Martin (Overland Park), Courtney Moffit (Overland Park), Melinda Ablard Smith (Olathe), Melanie Yunger (Shawnee) Business Office 11936 W. 119th #335, Overland Park, KS 66213 913.782.3238 phone • 913.681.5139 fax OUR PRODUCTS kansas city’s #1 attraction guide

fall/winter 2013-14

FREE March 2014 KCParent.com Since 1985

FREE Jan-March 2014 KCParent.com

Where you find family, you will find us.

Since 2002 Where you find family, you will find us.

KC LOVES FUN!

LET’S CAMP! KC’s #1 CAMP GUIDE

2x bigger than last year!

our newest arrival is here:

ANNOUNCING THE ALL-NEW KCBABY.COM!

the

everything

pregnancy

issue

WORTH A DETOUR « GETAWAY ST. LOUIS & OMAHA « BEST SLICE OF PIZZA

Manners really do matter

are food dyes harmful for kids?

homework & test prep help KCGOINGPLACES.COM

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great weight debate

nurture your nesting

bye bye naps kcparent.com jan-march 2014

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

Member of:

Circulation verified by:

Here’s to the arrival of spring!

Margaret Sarver, Editor

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Associate Publisher Darrell Dean Darrell@KCParent.com

.com

This year’s camp guide is 2x bigger than last year!

We’re talking ‘bout please and thank you, They’re called the magic words.

If you want nice things to happen, They’re the words that should be heard.

--Barney Yep, the above is from that Barney, the big purple dinosaur. While I have managed to wipe most of Barney and his show from my memory, that song has stuck with me through the years. It’s no surprise to me that I’ve remembered those lyrics because I am a big believer in manners. Yes, please and thank you are important, but in my book so are thank you notes, looking people in the eye when speaking to them and standing when a child is introduced to an adult. Olathe mom Melinda Ablard Smith takes a look at etiquette today and how we can help our children learn to “mind their manners.”

Big spring break plans? Or maybe you don’t have anything planned yet?

Don’t worry! We’ve got you covered! From adventures close to home to trips a bit farther away, Kristina Light shares terrific spring break trip ideas on pg. 24. And if you are staying put for spring break, check out the calendar beginning on pg.

52 and visit the calendar at KCParent.com for great ideas to keep you busy all break long.

Spring break time is upon us, and summer isn’t far behind! With that in mind, it’s time to start thinking about summer camp. This year’s summer camp guide is more than twice as big as last year’s! With so many options for kids of all ages, we are you one-stop shop for summer camps! Browse through and start your summer planning today. For more great info—including photos and videos from local camps—visit our interactive camp guide at KCParent.com.

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

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

We care about the little things.

Just Ask a Mom.® “Since our daughter first started, I have never felt more comfortable with her environment and the care given.

Each day is filled with love, learning and new activities.

She truly loves her teachers, and to be honest, so do I.” Tiffany, Primrose Mom

Primrose School of Overland Park 12100 W 135th St, Overland Park, KS 66221 913.400.2435 | PrimroseOverlandPark.com Primrose School of Leawood 4820 W 137th St, Leawood, KS 66224 913.897.8900 | PrimroseLeawood.com

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Each Primrose School is a privately owned and operated franchise. Primrose Schools and The Leader in Educational Child Care are trademarks of Primrose School Franchising Company. ©2014 Primrose School Franchising Company. All rights reserved.

kcparent.com march 2014

9

CRAFTCORNER

scented cloud dough

The sweet smelling extract, along with the silky soft dough, makes this activity a multisensory experience!

This yummy smelling alternative to play dough is so easy to make and addicting to play with. It requires only a few ingredients that you are sure to already have in your pantry, and no cooking is required, so any child can help whip up a batch. The sweet smelling extract, along with the silky soft dough, makes this activity a multisensory experience!

Materials Needed: 8 c. white all-purpose flour 1 c. oil 3-4 T. extract (almond, vanilla, mint or another favorite flavor) Large plastic bin

Directions: This works best if you put your ingredients in a large plastic bin with a lid. You can mix up your ingredients and play with the dough right in the container to contain the mess. Add 1 cup of oil to 8 cups of flour. Using your hands, mix and squish the dough and oil together until the lumps are smoothed out and the dough will form a ball. Add more oil if necessary. Mix in the extract. Use cups, plastic toys and anything else you desire to manipulate the dough!

Megan Kapple is a blogger from Kansas City, MO, where she lives with her husband and three young daughters.

She loves anything DIY and crafty and blogs about her adventures at HomemadeGinger.com.

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kcparent.com march 2014

I am ... … an interior designer. … a sports Mom. … a loving wife. … an antiquer. … a foodie. … a blood donor. … compassionate. … competitive. … determined. … thankful. … a friend.

Stephanie is a busy woman with a crazy schedule every day! She juggles a demanding professional career along with a busy home life. She is also a loyal and dedicated blood donor who takes 60 minutes of her time every 56 days to help save a life in her community.

Who are you?

savealifenow.org kcparent.com march 2014

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playing favorites

tips for making kids feel loved equally

O

ne of the most important lessons I learned in preparation for parenthood was not to play favorites with my kids—a lifelong lesson I am grateful to my parents for teaching me. I am the youngest of four daughters, and my sisters and I remain very closely connected to each other. Today, well into adulthood with children of our own, we are no longer competing for our parents’ (still equal) attention, but we also continue to have very little sibling rivalry among ourselves—something I attribute to our parents.

So I jumped at the chance to find out the secrets behind my parents’ ability to make us all feel equally loved, turning first to the expert who had the biggest impact in my life regarding favoritism (or lack thereof): my mom. After raising four daughters, Sharon Blumenthal, LCSCW, has used all the skills she gained during motherhood to help other families, children and parents get through their tough issues in her private therapy practice.

Also weighing in on the topic with her own expertise in the field is Dr. Gwen Landever, Education Department Chair

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at the University of Saint Mary in Leavenworth, and a Leawood mom of two.

Focus on the strengths: First and foremost, both experts strongly recommend parents never play favorites.

Rather, it’s more important to focus on the individual child’s needs.

“Give them equal praise for their strengths and equal attention to help them overcome their weaknesses. Positive reinforcement is key,” says Blumenthal.

Landever agrees, “You may connect differently with each of your children and you may like different qualities of each of your children, but you need to find what you adore about each and then just love them for those qualities!”

What’s more, playing favorites can backfire in unexpected ways: “The kids know if you play favorites and—interestingly enough—research shows selfesteem is as low for the ‘favorite’ child as it is for the child who is not favored,” says Landever.

Set an equal playing field: “Keep discipline and expectations equal (within reason) for each child,” Blumenthal says.

“Basically, you are instilling the same values for each child to ensure a sense of fairness.”

For example, if your two children put their best into studying for school, and one child comes home with straight As, while the other brings home Cs, you may need to adjust expectations. Focus on the fact that each child worked as hard as he or she could and help both of them be proud of themselves for their hard work. Also, make sure you are giving each child the tools he needs to build confidence and thrive, without setting unreasonable expectations.

Make time: “Don’t exclude a child,” Blumenthal says. “If you are driving one child to ice skating three times a week, ask your other child if he or she would like to come along so you can chat or go grab an ice cream while the sibling is at practice.”

Landever is a fan of one-on-one activities with her kids and makes special plans on a regular basis. “Pick activities you both enjoy but the rest of the family may not. I tend to go shopping or get a manicure with my girly daughter, and my son and I go to lunch at a restaurant only the two of us like. My husband also does dad time with each kid as well,” Landever says.

Where special time is concerned, don’t let your kids get bogged down with “being fair,” cautions Landever. “In our family, we talk about how everyone gets the opportunity to do something special, and those special times may not be exactly the same length or at the same time.”

“We also discuss the idea that fair is not always ‘equal,’ so my 10-year-old may get to stay up 30 minutes later than my 8-year-old, and that is a fair rule since she is older and can handle a later bedtime. That doesn’t mean we are favoring her,” Landever says.

Finally, as my dad used to tell us when we’d complain: “Life isn’t always fair.” It’s okay for your children to learn that life doesn’t always come out evenhanded, but remind them that in the ebb and flow of childhood—and life—it all comes out in the wash. Your children will develop resilience, and those lessons definitely worked for my sisters and me!

Jane Blumenthal Martin lives in Overland Park with her husband and two children. Read Jane’s blog for working parents at ArtOfEqualParenting.com.

WOMEN’SHEALTH

Eye Health

Christ Lutheran School & Christ Lutheran Early Education Center

M

arch is National Save Your Vision Month. While some of us may think that because we have good vision, our eyes must be healthy, in reality, this may not be the case. Our eyes are truly the windows to our souls. By having a regular yearly comprehensive eye exam, you will ensure not only healthy eyes and normal vision, but also a healthy body, as well.

Yearly visits with your eye doctor can be a little scary, especially if you have never been before. Make sure that your doctor does the exam while your eyes are dilated. This can make for a challenging day, but it’s worth it so the doctor can see the tiny vessels in the back of your eye.

While looking at these vessels, your provider will assess for damage or disease that often comes without warning. Oftentimes, eye doctors are the first health care professionals to notice chronic systemic diseases, such as high blood pressure and diabetes, simply by looking at the blood vessels in our eyes. There are several things you can do to keep your eyes healthy, along with a yearly visit to your eye doctor.

Know your family’s eye history.

Has anyone in the family been diagnosed with an eye disease or condition?

Eat right to protect your sight.

Beyond the carrots, include green leafy vegetables, spinach, kale, salmon, tuna, eggs, nuts and citrus fruits.

Maintain a healthy body weight.

If overweight, you put yourself at risk for diabetes and other systemic chronic conditions that may lead to vision loss or diseases of the eye.

Stop smoking.

Wear sunglasses. Some experts are linking UV-A and UV-B rays to macular degeneration.

Give your eyes a rest. According to the CDC, if you spend a lot of your day staring at a computer or focusing on one thing, you sometimes forget to blink. Try the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes look at something at least 20 feet away for 20 seconds or longer.

Wear protective eye gear, especially while participating in sports or activities around the house.

If you have any questions regarding eye health, please talk to your health care provider.

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

Our mission, passion, and purpose: equipping the future generation of Christian leaders as logical thinkers, proficient readers, and eloquent writers through a Classical curriculum.

From preschool through 8th grade, it is a great Christian school centrally located in Johnson County!

Christ Lutheran School 11720 Nieman Road • Overland Park, KS 66210

GradeFor school: information call: (913) 754-5888

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“It’s GREAT be a Griffin!”

Our mission, passiontoand • Twenty-five years, preparing young purpose equipping the future learners for future success in school generation of Christian leadand life-long learning. ers as logical thinkers, pro• Parent’s Day Out • Preschool • Pre-K • ficient readers, and eloquent Half day/full day preschool options mission, passion, and purpose: equipping theafuture writers thoughOur a Classical • To schedule tour or for more info thinkers, proficient curriculum. generation of Christian leaders as logical contact Leta Sprecher at 913-754-5813 readers, and eloquent writers through a Classical curriculum.

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For information call: (913) 754-5888 www.christlutheranschoolop.com

“It’s GREAT to be a Griffin!”

DO YOU HAVE A 3-YEAR OLD? WE NEED YOUR HELP! Who can participate?

Healthy children, within Effects of Adult Speech on Grammar Development 3 months of their 3rd birthday in Preschoolers with Specific Language Delay who drink cow’s milk daily.

Benefits • Compensation for each trip to KU Medical Center.

• Children will receive a toddler formula for 6 months.

PURPOSE

BENEFITS

To study the effects of adult speech on grammatical development of preschoolers with language delay.

Caregivers receive a summary of all testing for their child, whether or not the child qualifies for the study.

WHO QUALIFIES?

CAREGIVER RESPONSIBILITIES

Children 4 and 5 years old with developmental delays that appear to be specific to language.

Caregiver Responsibilities • Attend 4 study visits over a period of 6 months.

• Offer your child the provided study beverage daily.

Bring your child to KUMC for up to 4 preliminary evaluations of your child’s communication skills.

Attend 10 study sessions at KUMC or at home.

Effects of Adult Speech on Grammar Development

The EffectsContact: of Feeding Dr. Marc E.Different Fey Hearing & Speech Dept.

• KU MedicalChildren Center Levels of DHA to Preschool

(913) 588-0574 • mfey@kumc.edu or visit our website alliedhealth.kumc.edu/school/research/fey

Contact us to learn more: 913-588-3781 or momandbaby@kumc.edu www.healthprofessions.kumc.edu/school/research/carlson kcparent.com march 2014

13

smooth move

making a

with children

Leaving behind friends, extracurricular activities and the comfort of home can be difficult for children. To help lighten the mood, place a lot of emphasis on the positive aspects of what awaits them, but remember not to set unreasonable expectations.

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A

re you thinking about or getting ready to move? Purchasing a new home can be an exciting time, albeit a bit stressful. When children are in the picture, they and we face additional stress.

Not every child will have feelings of excitement about moving. As parents, we think of moving into a new home or community as a fun adventure for our little ones. What we often forget, though, is that even children become nervous about the unknown.

When Leawood mom Kamille Konold and her husband told their two young boys about the family’s upcoming move, the boys weren’t very excited.

“They were not at all happy about moving when we first told them! They loved our house, and they also couldn’t quite understand (at 3 and 5 years old) that we would be taking everything in it with us,” Konold says. “We had to keep reassuring them that their beloved items would all be at the new house.”

Independence mom Vickylyn Acuna says that moving from California to Mis-

souri excited her three children because it was something new. “My teenager, however, had the most trouble at first, because she didn’t want to leave her friends behind. It took time for them to get adjusted; Missouri is so different.”

Leaving behind friends, extracurricular activities and the comfort of home can be difficult for children. To help lighten the mood, place a lot of emphasis on the positive aspects of what awaits them, but remember not to set unreasonable expectations. Remember that children take their personalities (likes, dislikes, strengths and weaknesses) with them wherever they go.

Acuna took the time to familiarize her children with the new area. “When we came out to find a home, we took pictures for them of the house, the schools they would be attending and the surrounding area,” Acuna says. “We told them all about what there is to do here, and the fact that we have family here in Missouri really helped. That’s important to them.”

Konold says, “It helped to get our boys excited about their new rooms. They

New Home Traditions

“We learned that to help prevent underage drinking, it helps to be prepared.”

Once in your new home, create some family traditions!

• Plant a small dogwood tree in the yard and watch it grow over the years.

• Track the children’s height on the wall in the kitchen.

• Make silhouettes of the kids at their ages of the time of the move and hang on a wall.

• Let kids choose new sheets for their beds in the new home.

Penney, Anheuser-Busch employee, and husband Larry

Knowing what to say—and when— can help prevent underage drinking.

We can’t sit our kids down and force them to connect with us over the issue of alcohol. It just doesn’t work like that.

To achieve deeper, more meaningful connections, we have to prepare ourselves for unexpected Trim: 3.6x9.88 Bleed: none Live: 3.35x9.63

“windows of opportunity”—those teachable moments that can occur anytime, anywhere. Decide where you stand on key issues and agree to be honest, direct and consistent.

Closing Date: 2/14/14 QC: CS Pub: KC Parent Mag

It’s the first step to establishing a connection that will endure throughout your kids’ lives. To learn more, join us on Facebook and download our free Parent Guide.

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got to pick out the paint colors, and they both needed new beds.

We then had a sleepover the week before we actually moved. By the time moving day came, they were actually excited.”

Here are some other helpful tips from the experts to guide you along the way.

Have a family meeting. No matter what the reason for your move, gather everyone together, order pizza and talk about it.

Let your children know how you feel about the move, and allow them to express their feelings, too.

Make a wish list. During your family meeting, allow everyone to add their “new-home wishes” to the list. Perhaps you want a larger kitchen, your spouse would like a finished basement and your children each want a big backyard and their own bedrooms. Write it all down and have fun with it! You could even make two lists: one that is realistic and one that is a dream list.

Include everyone during the house hunt. That’s right— bring the kids along! Ask them to tell you their three favorite things about each house that you see. If that’s not doable, house hunt online together. This makes everyone feel included and more comfortable during the search.

Let them map out their rooms. Bring your children along to visit the new home and let them choose their own bedrooms.

Throw a good-bye party. Help your child say good-bye to friends by throwing a party. Invite friends, family and neighbors, and be sure to take a lot of photos! Your children will appreciate those taken with their special friends they’re leaving behind.

Visit their favorite places. Visit your favorite neighborhood and community spots before the move. Whether it’s a favorite park, library or certain people, make it a memorable day for all.

Make a memory book. Let your children fill it with their favorite photos and memories of your home and their friends.

Say good-bye to your home. During dinner, ask each family member to share a favorite memory in the old house.

Organize a moving sale. Once you’ve figured out what to keep and what to purge, involve your children in setting up a moving sale. Older children can help price and organize; younger kids can have a lemonade stand during the sale. Use the proceeds toward something for the entire family. Perhaps a new flat-screen TV or a jungle gym for the backyard.

Moving with children can definitely be stressful, but it can also be fun! Involve the entire family from beginning to end, and it’ll ease anxieties and bring about positivity and excitement instead.

Liberty mom and author Gina Klein experienced a move with her own family this past summer. Her two daughters, 7 and 10, loved looking at all of the houses and being involved in the entire moving process.

facebook.com/ABFamilyTalk © 2012 Anheuser-Busch, St. Louis, MO

kcparent.com march 2014

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FAITH&FAMILY

the “luck” of st. patrick

T

he waters flow green in our City of Fountains, the ides of March upon us.

Oddly, the saint we celebrate in this “season of luck” was pockmarked with tragedy.

At 16, Patrick was torn from his family and sold into slavery in Ireland.

During six years of captivity, Patrick could have lost hope. Instead, he chose a positive way of engaging life’s misfortunes—a higher attribution theory—believing God had a redemptive purpose for his suffering. Patrick became grounded in Christianity and its life-giving themes of liberation, deliverance and resurrection.

Attribution theory, in psychology, describes how we attach meaning to life’s events. Helpful parents teach children to attribute the trajectory of their lives, in large extent, to the choices they make. Yes, things happen to us and in spite of us, but we can effectively control that which happens through us by our freedom to choose, and then act. To help our children discern among the above and place their focus on their center of control is to nurture maturity and wisdom.

But a deeper discernment requires something more:

teaching our children to recognize hints of God’s guidance and revelation as they engage with life’s choices. In children’s ministry, we call these hints “God sightings.” As parents and faithshapers, we can teach our children to have eyes to see and ears to hear God, who often speaks to us through what the Alpha Course teaches are the “five CS’s,” undergirded in prayer: Commanding Scripture: wisdom literature, such as the Bible. Compelling Spirit: nudges and gut feelings. Common Sense: reason and conscience. Counsel of Saints: trusted advice. Circumstantial Signs: synchronicity and signs woven into life’s circumstances Imagine the power of a generation forging a path hand in hand with the Author of Life, attributing a higher purpose to their existence, a role in God’s redemptive story.

St. Patrick understood this. He cultivated a habit of diligent prayer, seeking “Christ behind me, Christ before me, Christ beside me, Christ to win me” at every turn. In a vision during his captivity, Patrick saw Ireland’s pagan children reaching their hands toward him and he suddenly grasped God’s overarching purpose for his life: to free the land that had enslaved him.

And, through a commingling of Patrick’s extravagant obedience and God’s divine providence, the vision came to pass. Patrick pushed past geographical and theological borders to write a redemptive chapter of history, which we celebrate to this day.

And, as saints do, Patrick attributes it all to God. Wendy Connelly is mom to two kids and a graduate student at St. Paul School of Theology in Leawood.

Teaching children and adults the love of dance for 43 years.

now enrolling!

recreation & competitive levels ages 2 & up

913.764.4146 135th St. & South Arapaho Dr. www.leighsschoolofdance.com

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kcparent.com march 2014

I am ... … a Sporting KC fan. … a First-grader. … a music lover. … a princess. … a singer. … a blood recipient. … a super hero. … a fighter. … a sister. … caring. … brave.

Super Jasmine, is a super hero who loves having fun! She enjoys entertaining her family with her beautiful voice and her adorable smile. Jasmine is also a brave young girl who battles High Risk Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. She continues to fight the good fight when she receives super powers, following one of her many blood transfusions. She is thankful for blood donors who took just 60 minutes of their time to help save her life.

Who are you? savealifenow.org kcparent.com march 2014

17

rainy day blues J

Get Out and Play When you just need to get out of the house, Paradise Park is the perfect destination. With the Edutainment Center for younger kids and go-karts, foam factory, game room and more, there’s something for every member of the family!

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kcparent.com march 2014

ust as it seems we are finally packing away the winter gear and saying goodbye to days stuck indoors due to the frigidness outside, spring blows in and brings us rainy days. Back inside, we hunker down and sadly wait out the weather once again. With three little ones at home this year, I’m being proactive and planning ahead for those inevitable days that will keep outdoor play off limits.

Some of our favorite ways to beat the blues on rainy days involve being creative at home. We keep cheap cans of shaving cream stocked in our linen closet for impromptu fun. Assuming you aren’t dealing with severe storms, a midday bath with a muffin tin filled with tinted shaving cream can be a great way to pass the day during dreary weather. Children can “paint” rainbows on bathroom walls, and the clean-up for parents is incredibly simple. You also can create an indoor obstacle course. Crawl under tables, roll from one room to the next, do jumping jacks, slither like a snake around chairs, walk a straight line across masking tape on the floor—just be creative with items you already have on hand. The bonus to this activity is that it requires little to no planning ahead of time and it is also a great way to help burn off some of that stocked-up energy from being indoors all day.

We regularly keep our hold list updated at our local library. For example, if you search “weather juvenile” on the Johnson County Public Library database, you can find an entire assortment of books and DVDs perfectly themed for

educational fun on a rainy day. Chances are that soggy weather will come your way at some point when you have those materials checked out. When you are in need of just a bit of a break from entertaining little ones, grab a piece of paper and use colored markers to create a rainbow-themed scavenger hunt. For nonreaders you can simply draw lines and ask your children to go find one purple item, two blue items, etc. If you are looking for some additional creative activities to tackle on rainy days, Pinterest.com/ KCParent has several boards with simple crafts to do with children.

Let’s face it though, there is only so much fun that can be had at home before we all need a break—rainy weather or not. A number of KC’s indoor spaces are worth checking out when your family needs a change of scenery. When the rain rolls in, we plan to take advantage of the dreary weather and visit a few indoor attractions in Kansas City.

Whether you choose to wait out the rain from the comfort of your home or you decide to visit a Kansas City attraction, you can make the most of those soggy days with a little creativity and preplanning. The rain will pass (eventually), and you will have produced some fun memories in the meantime!

Rachel Boese is a blogger from Gardner, where she raises three young children with her husband. She hates rainy days and lives for summer and sunshine.

She blogs about her adventures at RachelOnRewind.com.

WORDFROMDAD

Write a Column

“D

ad!”

“Yes, James?”

“My program! It’s not on!”

I checked the channel and the clock.

Instead of his favorite nature program, old musicians performing the music they made popular almost 50 years ago filled the screen.

“I’m sorry, James. You’re program won’t be on for a couple weeks.”

“What? Why? How come?”

“The station wants to run this program.”

“No! They can’t do it! Dad, you should write a column.”

Autistic children have difficulty dealing with change. For many of them, routine isn’t confining; it’s a structure that comforts and protects. When things are altered, their entire world shifts, and they display their uncertainty and anger in behavioral issues.

James came to me for a solution, secure in his faith. Dad can fix almost everything.

His chin juts and his arms are crossed. “You should write a column.”

I explain that my stories are for parents. I tell him that, sometimes, they’re about things I remember when I was a kid. Or they might be about his older brother and sisters. On occasion, I even write about James and Ian. “It’ll take too long.” I look him in the eye. “Besides, my columns won’t make TV stations change their minds and put your show back on.”

His eyes narrow and his mouth tightens to a thin line.

I fall back on a parental standby.

“We’ll see.”

Placated, but not satisfied, he retreats to his room and forgets the issue.

A few days later, we dodge the drips from the melting snow as we enter the front door.

“Dad, what’s happening?”

“The snow’s melting. Pretty soon, it’ll all be gone.”

“But, I love snow.”

“Me too, but it has to melt.”

“No! It can’t melt.” He turned away from the melting snow to face me. “Dad, you should write a column!”

William R. Bartlett lives in Belton with his family.

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keeping kids safe in

crowded places

To keep kids safe it’s also important to teach them about stranger danger. Log onto KCParent.com and search “stranger danger.”

T

aking vacations with your family can be just as much fun as it is stressful.

Any parent knows planning for vacations can involve a lot of prep work, and anxiety levels seem to increase as you are constantly on alert, playing safety patrol.

To help with the planning, we’ve compiled some safety tips, precautions and procedures to think about and cover so you keep safety your number one priority and still have fun while you vacation!

HAVE A PLAN

The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) urges par-

ents to discuss safety before traveling. It’s important to have a plan to fall back on if you do get separated from your children or if another emergency occurs, such as a fire or other natural disasters. “Every morning before we set out for the day, we talk about safety and go over our family emergency plan,” says Abigail Reece, Parkville.

SEPARATED

Teach your child to spot someone that can help him, such as a uniformed officer, a mother with children or uniformed work personnel, if they do get separated from you.

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For older children, pre-designate a common meeting place, and for younger children, encourage them to stay in the place they lost you; explain to them it will be easier for you to find them if they don’t wander off trying to look for you.

area, report suspicious activity and alert authorities right away if your child goes missing.

PROPERLY IDENTIFIED

Dress your children in bright colors that are easy to spot in a crowded place.

Do not dress them in anything that has their name on it or something that will give an unwanted stranger an invitation to ask questions or strike up a conversation with your child. “I’m not that type of mom to make t-shirts for special events, but when we travel, I dress them in fluorescent colors so I can spot them in an instant,” Jennifer Daniels, Kansas City, says.

Make sure that all children have their addresses and phone numbers memorized, or for younger children, pin an ID card to the inside of their clothing.

Also include the name of the hotel or place you are staying while vacationing.

“I usually write my name and cell phone number on my kid’s arm when I know we will be in a crowded place,” says Andrea Hartman, Lee’s Summit. You can go to MissingKids.com to create an ID kit for each child so you have something to hand over to the police if, God forbid, your child becomes lost.

PHYSICALLY CONNECTED

ROLE PLAY

DRESS THE PART

Use a baby wrap, sling or front carrier to tote children 0-2. This will free your hands from pushing a stroller, allowing you to hold other hands or luggage.

Consider a leash for children that are ages 3-5. While this might be a controversial topic, the bottom line is that there is something tangible linking you to your flight-prone, exploring little tot. Create a buddy system for your older children.

IN TOUCH WITH TECHNOLOGY

Relying on cell phones can be a gamble, especially if you are in a crowded place or overseas. To stay in touch, use two-way radios or walkie-talkies. Check out websites like Trip Advisor to read safety reviews left by other parents, or you can register for free at www.AlertID. com to get updated alerts in your current

G rowing young minds around the world.

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When out preparing for your trip, take that time to point out and practice safety skills. Ask your children what they would do if they got separated from you, what they would say if a stranger approached them and asked for help or if someone tried to take them away. Talk about their responses and encourage the correct way to respond or act in those situations.

As parents you want to expose your children to new places and create new memories; ensure their safety and your sanity by taking the time to follow a few extra steps of precaution.

Jennifer Duxbury is a SAHM from Olathe who actively practices safety precautions while she travels to ensure her sanity and the safety of her family.

“The Building Blocks for your Child’s Future”

remember to always…

Q Hold your child’s hand in a public place or have one hand on your stroller at all times.

Q Have handy an updated photo of your children.

Q Accompany and supervise your children in public restrooms.

Q Tell your children to not be too

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Q Know where the nearest emergency personnel are located.

Q Trust your gut instincts.

Q Watch your children; never as-

sume someone else is supervising them.

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HEALTHYKIDS

food dyes & children

A

s parents we can all relate to the fact that our children always seem to have more energy than we do.

We may resort to coffee, tea or soda to increase our energy level and keep up with our little ones. While I may need this something extra to keep me going, my children do not. I do my best to limit any unneeded, additional sugar in their diet, and they do not consume caffeinated beverages. But I’ve wondered what might be at the root of their excess energy and just recently stumbled across an article that offers a possible explanation.

The article explained how food dyes have been linked to hyperactivity in children, and while I was surprised to read this, I at first didn’t take it to heart.

After all, I was sure that my children didn’t consume many food items containing dyes. I was wrong. Unknowingly, I have been feeding my children many foods that contain food dyes.

Food dyes are chemicals derived from petroleum, and 15 million pounds of dye are used every year in the United States. At one time, 91 different dyes were approved for use in food, drugs and cosmetics. Many of these have been removed

or restricted by the FDA, and currently nine remain available to use: blue 1, blue 2, green 3, red 3, red 40, yellow 5, yellow 6, FD&C Lakes (combinations of colors) and citrus orange 2. WebMD states that the relationship between food coloring and hyperactivity in children has been examined for more than 30 years with mixed results. At this time, no conclusive evidence has been found, but many studies have found an association between the two.

I have used food dye when making cookies, cakes and frostings a time or two, but hoped that was the only exposure my children (and I) had to the food dyes.

I found it in surprising places, though.

100DaysOfRealFood.com started a petition to ask Kraft to remove the yellow food dye from their macaroni and cheese; however, at this time, the manufacturer still includes it. This dye is not added to the product in other countries and is obviously not a necessary addition. Other surprising places food dyes show up are Yoplait Light & Fit® yogurt, fruit snacks, Flintstones™ vitamins, Lunchables®, Crystal Light® drinks, pre-made frostings (including white icing), Boboli® pizza crust, Pillsbury® crescent rolls, pickles and even some whole grain cereals, such as Life®. I could go on and on.

I think it is important to realize that these dyes are on the grocery store shelves, in our pantries and refrigerators, being consumed by our little people. And the effects they have on our children’s behavior is still unknown, with numerous studies finding a link to hyperactivity. I am realistic that I cannot eliminate all food dye, but also know that by being more aware, I can do my best to limit my children’s exposure. I have found that many organic options do not contain food dye and I will be switching to more of these for the benefit of my children.

MEET FIVE LOCAL TEEN ATHLETES WHO EXCEL INand delivery Jessica Heine is a labor nurse who is making small changes to take SPORTS AND GIVE BACK TO THE COMMUNITY. her family’s already healthy lifestyle to the

Visit KCParent.com to read about the changes Jessica made to her family’s dairy consumption.

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kcparent.com march 2014

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23

family g k a e eta r b g w n Whether ay i r s sp sleeping with penguins, exploring cave ruins or

climbing giant tree houses, family adventures are in store —right in Kansas Citians’

own backyard!

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kcparent.com march 2014

ozarks

s ark oz

adv en tu

e

re

t the lak in’ a eo k e ft se h

HA HA TONKA

S

leep in a yurt, explore castle ruins and dine in a cave…adventure awaits with a Lake of the Ozarks getaway.

Where to Sleep: Stay at Lake of the Ozarks State Park (MOStateParks.com), where you can enjoy camping without pitching a tent. The park offers cabins for rent year-round, or for those looking for something unique, spend the night in a yurt! A yurt is a circular structure with a fabric cover, atop a wooden platform with decking. The wooden frame, roof and locking doors make it strong and, most importantly, weathertight. Three large windows and a dome skylight let you enjoy the view, and stays are comfortable with a log futon, log futon bunk bed, a dorm-size refrigerator, coffee table, lamp, air conditioner and heater.

What to Explore: Ha Ha Tonka State Park (MOStateParks.com) is one of our favorite state parks in Missouri! The park is about 30 minutes from Lake of the Ozarks State Park. With meandering hiking trails through the Ozark Mountains overlook-

ing the Niangua River, the Lake of the Ozarks, a river cave and the most famous landmark of the park—the imposing castle ruins—a day at Ha Ha Tonka is an explorer’s dream. While you’re at the state park, explore the natural bridge, which is 70 feet wide, spans 60 feet and reaches more than 100 feet into the air. You also can take in the Coliseum, a steep-sided sinkhole measuring 500 feet long and 300 feet wide, and Whispering Dell, a sink basin 150 feet deep, and Counterfeiter’s Cave and Robber’s Cave—both of which were used as hideouts by criminals in the 1830s. But most of all, bring your camera and snap photos among the castle ruins.

The castle was planned by Robert Snyder, who dreamt of a private retreat with a European-style castle overlooking the beautiful view of the Ozarks. He designed a mansion with a center atrium and skylight, and he also planned the 80-foot water tower and carriage house on the grounds. In 1905, construction began but was not completed after Snyder’s tragic death. His sons took over the project and finished the castle, simplifying their father’s original design. Years passed and

the house was sold and served as a hotel until a fire in 1942 ruined the interior.

Today, the site of the castle and carriage house ruins are all that remain.

Where to Eat: There is only one cave restaurant in the world, and it happens to be located in Missouri about 30 minutes from Ha Ha Tonka. The Cave Restaurant (26880 Rochester Rd., Richland, MO, 573.765.4554) is an experience unlike any other. Diners park near the cave, then await a shuttle (van ride) to the entrance of the restaurant where they may climb stairs to the entrance or take an elevator. The restaurant is in the cave’s main room or opening, and diners are invited to explore and take photos. The food is traditional American fare with steaks, fish, chicken and sandwiches. The location also offers cabins for rent as another lodging option and canoe trips in season (Memorial Day-Labor Day).

And More: You can enjoy fishing and boating on the lake or shopping at a local outlet. You’ll find plenty to do at the Lake of the Ozarks; look for ideas at FunLake.com. kcparent.com march 2014

25

family travel tips With more than 25 years’ experience in the travel industry, Bob Diener has been a pioneer in the hotel consolidation and online travel industry. Diener is the president and co-founder of the newest online travel site GetARoom.com, specializing in offering travelers the best rooms at the best values. He shares his best travel tips for families below.

Try to travel when lines and airports are not busy so you are not rushed with the kids. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Saturdays are the best days to travel. The lines are shorter and fares may be cheaper.

Never pay extra for kids! Every hotel has a different policy regarding allowing kids to stay free—some as high as 19 years old! But some charge for ages 2 and above. Avoid the extra charges by checking the kids charge policy first.

Bring plenty of snacks. Avoid being stuck with no food while stalled on the runway or when stores are closed and the kids get hungry.

Kids under 2 fly free in the United States—this is a great bargain. But be careful outside the U.S.! Most carriers charge at least 10 percent of the fare for kids.

Always look for hotels with pools when traveling with kids.

Most sites with advanced search allow you to filter hotels for those with swimming pools.

Getaroom.com has many vacation rental properties that can accommodate the entire family at around $100/night with kitchen – so you don’t have to pay for expensive restaurants.

Be careful of parking, Wi-Fi and other charges – find properties that offer these for free.

Many hotels offer free food for kids – this adds up.

Want internet on your flight at a cheaper rate? Visit GoGoAir.com for a 15 percent savings.

A family trip to Nebraska is all about nature. From tall tree houses to the rain forest, this is a nature lover’s dream trip!

Always remember to charge video games, iPads, iPods, cell phones and other electronic games the night before a trip.

These can keep the kids happy and occupied the entire trip.

Where to Sleep: Stay at Lied Lodge and Resort (2700 Sylvan Rd., Nebraska City, NE, 800.546.5433, LiedLodge.org), where your family will enjoy an indoor pool, gym and resort amenities at a beautiful and scenic location all within walking distance of your main attraction and adventure, Arbor Day Farm.

For tips on how to keep kids entertained on long flights or car trips, visit KCParent.com.

26

kcparent.com march 2014

What to Explore: Visit Arbor Day Farm (2611 Arbor Ave., Nebraska City, NE, 402.873.8717, ArborDayFarm.org).

a

vin’ in neb e lo ra r u sk t a n omaha

ARBOR DAY FARM

KANSAS CITY ZOO

Bonus: a trip close to home!

Penguins and polar bears are the newest stars at the Kansas City Zoo, and now you can enjoy a unique experience with our favorite polar friends.

The beautiful arboretum is a favorite family adventure. With tree houses and exhibits throughout, the highlight is the grand tree house 50 feet in the air with a spectacular view of the nature below. The park features hands-on nature exhibits for children, as well as many tree houses in which to play and explore and a Discovery Ride with a tour of the park. Every visitor receives a free souvenir tree as a great finale to a wonderful day enjoying nature.

Where to Eat: While you’re there, we recommend spending a day in

Omaha (just an hour away). Dine at the Old Market Spaghetti Works (502 S.11th St., Omaha, NE), where kids eat free on Mondays, and everyone enjoys the generous portions of pasta and the salad bar housed in a Model-T truck.

And More: While you’re in Omaha, be sure to visit one of the coolest zoos in the United States (discounted admission for KC Zoo FOTZ members!). Explore the rain forest, aquarium, butterfly house and more at Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo (3701 S. 10th St., Omaha, NE, 402.733.8400, OmahaZoo.com).

All-in-One Overnight Adventure and Breakfast: The Kansas City Zoo is now offering family overnights! You can choose a Penguin Pole-looza on the first Saturday of the month, March 1 (April and May, too, if you miss out on March!) or a Polar Bear PJ Party on March 23 (and other months, as well) for $40/person. They also offer overnights for scouts and other groups if you watch the zoo’s website.

Reservations for the overnights include sleeping in the animal exhibits, animal encounters, night hikes and continental breakfast! You may even get to explore the zoo after hours and see what the animals do at night (weather permitting).

Kristina Light’s family is always looking for a new adventure, and they can’t wait to sleep with the penguins at the Kansas City Zoo this spring! kcparent.com march 2014

27

fight fair

how to engage in healthy conflict with your spouse Plan a regular date night: Research suggests that couples who engage in novel activities that are fun, active or otherwise arousing––from hiking to dancing to travel to card games––enjoy higher levels of relationship quality.

Source: The National Marriage Project at the University of Virginia

Additional resources: Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work by Dr. John Gottman Getting the Love You Want

by Harville Hendrix The Five Love Languages

by Gary Chapman

28

kcparent.com march 2014

Y

ou and your spouse may spend most of your days living side by side in peaceful harmony, but every couple comes to a crossroads at some point that sparks a confrontation. The key to a healthy, happy marriage isn’t whether or not you argue, but how you argue.

Timing is everything. Unleashing a litany of demands or criticisms on your spouse the minute he walks through the door is an example of what experts call a “harsh start-up.”

“Harsh start-up is something people can do that will immediately close down the openness in the relationship.

It makes the argument less effective for providing resolution,” says Dr. Jill Thorne, a psychologist and marriage therapist in Overland Park. “Harsh start-up is one of the big mistakes that doesn’t set the tone well.”

Soften your tone and approach the discussion in a way that doesn’t feel like a guerrilla attack. That might mean postponing the discussion until after dinner when you and your spouse aren’t hungry, tired and in the midst of dinnertime chaos––a time when emotions may already be running high.

“Also avoid talking through a touchy subject if other people are around

or if you are rushing out the door getting ready to go somewhere with your little ones,” Thorne says.

Listen. Refusing to acknowledge or validate your partner’s perspective can escalate the argument and spin it into a direction of extreme reactions and low blows. On the other hand, listening to your spouse with an open mind will help him feel heard.

“When we can put our own agenda on hold, the other person feels validated and understood, usually squelching the fight,” says Adrienne Dreher, professional family counselor for Alive Counseling Services in Kansas City, MO. Although conflict is scary, airing grievances in a non-abusive way helps us negotiate our needs and understand each other’s perspective. Often couples avoid conflict because they are naturally passive in how they communicate, feel insecure about how to assert their needs or feel intimidated by the other person.

Other times, they dismiss an argument before a resolution has been reached.

“If there is not a resolution, they can start to feel resentful deep down and start to build distance emotionally,” Thorne says.

If you feel too overwhelmed and

stressed to continue an emotionallycharged disagreement, tell your spouse that you need to take a break. But, agree on a time when you can come back to the discussion.

Arguing in front of kids. Many couples strive to keep the peace around their kids, but experts say kids can learn from witnessing a healthy disagreement, as long as the issue isn’t too intimate in nature.

“For a lot of the everyday conflict areas for couples, it’s good and smart and healthy to allow the kids to see some of that,” Thorne says. “Children learn mostly through social role modeling. They can learn how to discuss when they are feeling angry or hurt, which is important for their future relationships.”

If your child becomes frightened or upset by an argument between you and your spouse, stop and reassure her, says Thorne. You might say, “We’re just talking through something we don’t agree on. It will be okay.”

Warmth and affection between you and your spouse following an argument shows your child that even when you have disagreed, you still care about each other.

Repair and forgive. Make efforts to repair any emotional fallout and forgive each other.

“Be able to apologize or say you are sorry in some sort of way, whether it’s saying ‘I want to hear what you are saying,’ ‘Let me say that again in a better way’ or ‘I know I was harsh about that

when I first brought it up,’” says Karen Irick, LCSW, a marriage counselor at Accessing Change in Kansas City, MO, and Liberty.

Asking for a break during an argument is also a form of repair.

“One couple I knew had a ritual,” Irick says. “She would get really emotional and blow up. He was afraid to bring anything back up again. One of the things she would do was come and touch his shoulder to signal ‘I’m ready to calmly discuss this—and we’re okay.’”

Enable the air bag. When the foundation of your marriage is strong, disagreements aren’t as threatening to a partnership.

Show affection and offer small, yet thoughtful, acts of kindness toward each other. Spend time together doing activities you both enjoy to avoid complacency and emotional distance. Date each other, flirt and remember what brought you together in the first place. Check in with each other during the day. Look for marriage retreats and other opportunities to reconnect with each other.

Finally, consult with a third party if you continue to rehash old disagreements or have trouble fighting fairly. A trained therapist can help you establish healthier communication patterns.

Freelance journalist Christa Melnyk Hines and her husband of 16 years are the parents of two boys. Christa is the author of Confidently Connected: A Mom’s Guide to a Satisfying Social Life.

“The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse” (predictors of divorce) Criticism - Attributing negative personality traits to your partner.

“You never help out around here.

You are so selfish.”

Defensiveness - Self-protection in the form of righteous indignation or innocent victimhood. “It’s not my fault that we’re always broke.

You’re the one who always spends all the money.”

Contempt - Greatest predictor of divorce. Insults, name-calling, mockery and hostile body language like rolling your eyes and sneering.

Stonewalling - Emotional withdrawal from the interaction.

Source: The Gottman Institute, Gottman.com.

We asked KCParent.com readers: Is it okay to fight in front of the kids?

[

[

30% No, scares them and should be dealt with in private.

70% Yes, teaches them how to handle conflict.

kcparent.com march 2014

29

NG I T S E T R O F G N PREPPI

“Don’t fret!” she said, You’ve learned the things you need To pass that test and many more — I’m certain you’ll succeed.

We’ve taught you that the earth is round, That red and white make pink, And something else that matters more — We’ve taught you how to think.”

- Dr. Seuss, Hooray for Diffendoofer Day!

N

Child struggling with homework?

Read “Homework Help: Grade by Grade” at KCParent.com.

30

kcparent.com march 2014

o matter what your feelings are about standardized testing, it is a part of our educational system that is here to stay. I always tell my kids that it is not mine to take away the hard things in life, but it is my job as their mother to love them through it!

Some practical and useful testpreparation suggestions have worked wonders with my students, as well as my own kids, over the years. If your children (or you!) have some apprehension about the upcoming testing season, some of the following tips may resonate with your family.

ONE MONTH (OR MORE) BEFORE THE TEST...

Taking the time to make education a priority is the firm foundation that your child needs to be successful with his education in general, which will only lead to better scores on standardized tests. As parents, it is important to model valuing a good education.

Maintain good study habits: • Make sure your child has a clear understanding of homework expectations before he leaves class.

• Encourage your child to maintain a record of class assignments. Many teachers/schools use planners for this purpose.

• Create a workable study schedule and provide a quiet, welllit area for homework.

• Keep an open line of communication with teachers and ask for weekly updates on work completion if that is an issue for your child.

• Encourage your child to ask for help if she does not understand something.

• Periodically review notes, past assignments and past tests with your child to aid in retention of the material.

• Encourage independence with homework projects.

• Maintain good class attendance.

• Consider making appointments and taking trips during regularly scheduled “no school” days.

• Get to know your child’s teachers.

Attend parent/teacher conferences and ask for feedback on your child’s strengths and weaknesses.

• Encourage reading as much as possible, and especially for pleasure. Reading influences performance in ALL subjects, not just the language arts.

• Note test dates on your calendar, as these are likely available well in advance.

Schedule appointments, etc. around these dates.

TWO WEEKS BEFORE THE TEST...

This is the time for practice, before your child becomes too anxious right before the test. Practice, modeling and role-play will work to prepare him/her mentally for the tasks ahead. Saying “this is what worked for me when I was a kid” helps your child know that everyone goes through this, and they can be successful too!

Go over test-taking tips with your child: • Read and follow all directions carefully.

• On multiple choice questions, read the WHOLE question before looking at the answer choices.

• On a reading passage, read the questions BEFORE reading the passage.

• Cross out answers you know are wrong.

• If allowed, highlight or mark reading passages when you find relevant information.

• Never leave any questions blank.

• Don’t spent too much time on one question. Mark it and come back to it if there is time.

Practice timed tests at home to get your child used to a time limit. Many websites let you print math facts, reading passages, etc. Start with a longer time (10-20 minutes) and work your way down to shorter times.

Ask your child’s school whether water bottles, snacks or gum is allowed during the test. Some children do much better if these are made available.

THE NIGHT BEFORE...

This is the time for relaxation. And sleep, lots of sleep…

• Arrange for physical activity earlier in the day. This will result in a better night’s sleep for your child.

• Review relaxation strategies to use during the test. Deep breathing (quietly) or imagining a peaceful place are tried and true methods.

• Encourage your child to think positively. Remind him/her that anxiety is normal.

• Did I mention sleep? You child needs a good night’s rest for better memory recall. Studies have shown that getting more sleep produces better results than staying up all night studying!

THE DAY OF...

Now is the time to keep your conversation light and off the test. As tempted as we are as parents to cram down all those last minute tidbits, it is important to keep your child in a relaxed state of mind.

• Serve a healthy breakfast with protein for optimal brain efficiency. Make sure the meal is not too heavy, and avoid foods that are high in sugar.

• If your child is ill, PLEASE do not send him or her to school. The school has make-up testing dates just for this purpose.

• Have your child wear comfortable clothes in layers.

• Arrive at school on time or just a bit early. Rushing will just add to the anxiety level.

• Send your child off with a positive thought and hug, and remind him or her that you are proud no matter what!

AFTERWARD...

Whew! You loved them through a stressful time in their lives, now what?

• Plan a treat for the night or day after the test. Having something to look forward to always helps us through stressful situations!

• Have realistic expectations. This is only one measure of your child’s academic progress.

• Complement your child’s effort, not the score. Saying “I am proud of how hard you studied” emphasizes this.

• Discuss the results openly with your child in a positive way.

Always pair something to work on with something he/she did well.

Courtney Moffitt is an elementary school teacher in Shawnee and a mother to two test takers and one future test taker.

Basic Healthy Brain Strategies for Everyday Homework Time Before beginning homework, provide your child with a snack that is a protein. Limit sugary snacks and drinks, because spiked sugar levels inhibit brain function.

Incorporate motor breaks throughout homework time. Motor activity activates the brain; allow kids to complete a “brain break” exercise!

• 10 jumping jacks • 10 cross crawls • Jump on a trampoline for two minutes • 10 sit-ups as fast as possible • Jump and reach for the stars 10 times • Hop on one foot for 10 seconds • Jump rope for 30 seconds • 10 push-ups • Dribble a basketball for 30 seconds Utilize song and motor movements when your child has to memorize a concept.

Reduce the amount of screen time and video games. Research shows that screens of all kinds activate the area of the brain that can cause trouble with sleeping. Increase opportunities for physical activities.

Try to eat at home as much as possible and provide high quality protein, vegetables and foods with a low glycemic index.

Have you have seen a theme?

Physical activity, a healthy diet and lots of sleep are the keys for optimal brain function! These three things can really enhance your child’s ability to learn and excel in all academic areas. Standardized assessments are here to stay, so these are the best strategies to provide optimal brain health, which in turn should produce some great test scores!

Amanda Gunter, M.Ed, is studying for her Ph.D. in brain rehabilitation.

She is the director of program development for Brain Balance Achievement Centers in Overland Park. kcparent.com march 2014

31

Special Advertising Section

between $125 - $415. Locations: Brookside, Overland Park, Lee’s Summit, Leawood, Kansas City, Kansas. See display ad on pg.44. www.KCShakes.org

Interactive Education Guide available at KCParent.com

Camp Special Beginnings Make this a summer to remember at Camp SB. Develop lifelong friendships in groups lead by our dedicated and trained staff. Your child will enjoy being a part of our high quality program in a positive, Christian environment. Off-site fieldtrips include weekly swimming as well as other such as mini golf, KC Zoo, Legoland, and Pump It Up. On-site daily activities such as community service, creative arts, sports, and

KC Parent’s

Camp Guide

teambuilding. Available to children who have completed Kindergarten through 5th grade.

M-F 6 a.m to 6 p.m. Full time/Part time/Temporary schedules. 913.634.7060. See display ad on

Camp Shakespeare

Drama, visual art, dance, and stage combat all

Camp Shakespeare is a unique summer arts

come together in this delightful camp, taught

experience that your kids will never forget!

by professional teaching artists in a neighbor-

Students will improve their understanding of

Ceramic Cafe

hood near you! Available for ages 5 -18. Camp

literature and renaissance times while creating

Ceramic Cafe’s summer program provides in-

dates vary per location. One, two and three

their own version of a Shakespearean classic.

struction in a variety of ceramic art techniques

week camps available, June 9-August 1. Costs

pg. 40 for free registration (new families only).

Get creative at the Nerman Museum!

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

summer is a great time to create!

Tuesdays-Fridays, June 10-July 25 10 a.m. - noon or 2-4 p.m.

Pre-registration is required.

913-469-2323 • www.jccc.edu/youth

Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art Johnson County Community College

32

kcparent.com march 2014

Now enrolling Summer Camp Ages 5 to 7 8 and up

A great place to create!

Pottery painting Glass fusing Birthday parties “Family day” every Sunday Monthly “kids and clay” series 9425 Mission Rd • 913-383-0222

www.ceramiccafekc.com

including hand building with clay, ceramic painting and glazing techniques and also glass fusing. Fun themes changes every camp session, so kids can sign up for their favorite, or enroll more than once. All sessions encourage individual creative expression. Camp sessions are divided by age groups. Creative Kids is for ages 5-7, Aspiring Artists is for ages 8 and up.

One day Workshops are also offered throughout the summer. See display ad on pg 32.

Visit www.CeramicCafeKC.com for add’l info and registration form.

Christian Youth Theater Act, Sing, and Dance this summer with Christian Youth Theater! Camps: “Pirates and Princesses” (ages 4-5), “Follow the Yellow Brick Road” (ages 5-12), “Epic Disney: The Heroes, Heroines & Villains” (ages 5-12), Xtreme Camps include “Star Trekkies” (ages 10-15), “Batman vs. Superman” (ages 10-15), “Star Warz” (ages 10-15), and “Dr. Who” (ages 10-15) “Camp Willy” Shakespeare

Leawood Presbyterian Church

June 16-20

Colonial Presbyterian Church

June 23-27

Lenexa Baptist Church

July 21-25

(ages 12-18), Middle School Overnight “Unusually Green (ages 12-14), and High School continued on pg. 36

kcparent.com march 2014

33

ealth h s ’ ld i a h

amp tc

you rc

CAMPGUIDE

L

etting go means different things to families. Growth. Independence. Opportunities. No arena is more challenging for parents than entrusting their child’s well-being to others.

At home, we have our medicine cabinets brimming with bright BandAids® and children’s cold medicines, not to mention the ready hug and kiss when the need arises. So, what’s a camp to do?

A look at what camp health professionals are talking about helps parents prepare for a child’s camp experience. Linda Ebner Erceg knows campers literally from the inside out, and as a camp nurse and leader in the field of camp nursing, she shares some of her know-how with parents.

34

kcparent.com march 2014

Whether pediatrician or family practitioner, your child’s doctor is an active partner sharing a common goal—the health and wellness of your child. And this partnership informs the next partnership you are about to establish—the one with your child’s camp.

the camp health form—

The camp health form provides the perfect opportunity to assess the overall state of your child’s health and growth.

Preparation should include parents’ reflecting on some of the following: • Growth and development

(physical, intellectual,

emotional) • Eating and sleeping habits

(changes are important, too) • Recent illnesses or injuries • Immunizations (also note travel,

especially outside the U.S.) • Fitness • Behavior • Family life adjustment or

challenges • Puberty and other

developmental issues Whether pediatrician or family practitioner, your child’s doctor is an active partner sharing a common goal—the health and wellness of your child. And this partnership informs the next partnership you are about to establish—the one with your child’s camp.

A thorough exam prior to a camp session allows you to take the necessary steps to communicate fully with the camp’s health care staff. The physical is also a chance to update that very important health history.

communication is a two-way street

Camp directors and health care staff are eager to discuss the health concerns and needs of campers. Armed with your own observations and information from your child’s health care provider, you can ask the right questions and provide the information that creates the most positive experience for your child.

Families with children experiencing chronic health problems may occasionally forget to share some of the routine care instructions—second nature to them, but unfamiliar to camp nurses and staff.

Sharing this information is a major step in assuring that your child will not be marginalized because the staff is unprepared to smoothly integrate medicines or treatments into the camp routine. Have a management plan in place before your child begins camp and determine how

the camp will communicate that plan to its staff.

Another area of concern for camp professionals is a child’s exposure to health risks from traveling, particularly outside the United States. Again, sharing this information about travel previous to camp will lead to a more complete picture of your child’s health and will strengthen the partnership.

allergies and asthma

Children’s health profiles are best described as moving targets. Allergies, both mild and severe, can exhibit themselves for the first time at camp or be exacerbated because exposures at camp vary from those at home. Parents need to get assurance from camp staff that they are prepared to address these symptoms if they occur, as well as learn the procedures they follow.

Camps offer a rich profile of activities for children, and parents, with their kids’ health concerns in mind, need to carefully select an appropriate camp. For example, children who have asthma aren’t necessarily a good match for a camp emphasizing scuba diving or rock climbing, while a strong pioneer or crafts program at another camp may be a perfect fit for those children. Parents will want to learn what accommodations camps can make for health issues while at the same time presenting a range of activities appropriate for their camper.

emotional and psychological wellness

For campers with diagnosed psychological challenges or in cases where parents are unsure about a child’s behavior, parents need to talk with the child’s professional care provider and assess whether the child is a good risk for camp at this stage. Just as a pediatrician needs information about the camp under consideration, so, too, does the child’s mental health practitioner. A shorter-stay camp, for example, offering a two-week stay, has a very different skill set profile for campers than one offering a longerterm stay. Day camps offer another option for parents to consider—maintaining a

familiar routine at home to balance the challenges of a program filled with new faces and new activities.

stress happens— even at camp!

Sometimes in our rush for community and togetherness, we forget that contemporary children are often used to solitude and may, in fact, need quiet time and space to reflect on their day.

Providing a child with a clock radio with headphones or a CD player tucked under a pillow may allow your son or daughter to decompress. Ask the camp director or camp health care provider about opportunities for private time. Maybe the camp library is the perfect place, or a sheltered outdoor spot away from the fray of games can provide the quiet and restful area your camper may seek. Talking with your child ahead of time reassures both of you that camp can and does accommodate many different personalities and needs while offering a wealth of activities to share.

preparing for group living

Be consistent. That’s one of the most important maxims of parenting. But wait!

At camp, we ask children to turn some rules upside down: share bunk beds, equipment, bathrooms, and even talk to strangers. The good news is camp creates the perfect setting to learn these new skills in a supportive environment.

When we think about it, camp practices what parents and health professionals are always preaching: Be active, get up off the couch, turn off the TV, stop snacking before meals, listen to others, cooperate, eat a variety of foods, sleep well. It’s a nearly invisible set of rules that makes a world of difference. At camp, we believe that enthusiasm for a healthy life is, in the best sense, contagious!

Linda Ebner Erceg, R.N., M.S., P.H.N., is executive director of the Association of Camp Nurses, as well as health and safety coordinator of Concordia Language Villages in Bemidji, Minnesota.

Reprinted by permission of the American Camp Association © 2007 American Camping Association, Inc. kcparent.com march 2014

35

CAMPGUIDE

Camp By the Numbers

ages 2-8, camps combine cherished childhood

Overnight “Crazy for You” (ages 14-19) with 3

literature, with dance, music, props and

full productions on July 25-27 at the Bell Center,

beautiful costumes each week. Children will

MNU. See display ad on pg. 45. 913.681.3318.

create a take-home prop in our prop workshop.

www.CYTKC.org

Watch your little ballerina blossom when she becomes Cinderella and other favorite prin-

12,000: Number of Day and Resident camps in US 11,000,000: Children attending camp each year

Culture House

cesses this summer! Camps and classes are of-

Spend your summer at The Culture House! Our

fered Mon.- Sat. in the morning and afternoon,

2014 summer programs include dance, theater,

June-Aug. 913.671.7944. See display ad on pg.

music & art ... all taught by professionally

43. www.AFairytaleBallet.com

trained adults. “Hairspray” (ages 12-19), “Dis-

1,200,000: Adults employed in the camp industry 1874: First YMCA camp 1912: First Girl Scout camp $690: Average price for a week of overnight camp 74%: Amount of camps that don’t allow campers to use personal electronic devices Source: American Camp Association

Fairytale Ballet this summer! Exclusively for

ney’s Little Mermaid” (ages 7-12), Art Camps,

Faulkner’s Pony Camp

Best of Broadway, Peter Pan Musical/Combat,

Want your kids to learn what it’s like to take

Beautiful Ballerinas, Hip Hop, Minion Mania,

care of a pony? Have them join us for pony

Music of the Muppets, Let’s Make a Movie, &

camp to find out. Faulkner’s Pony Camp is a

much more. PLUS our large summer produc-

great way for kids to get close to the Faulkner’s

tion of “Big River” (ages 6-adult) at Yardley Hall!

herd with a wrangler at their side. Kids will

Openings limited, call today. See insert for

learn important equine skills and how to

more information. (14808 W 117th St, Olathe)

groom, feed and ride ponies during this fun

913.393.3141. Enroll: www.CultureHouse.com.

week at the ranch. 816.761.1234. See display ad

See display ad on pg. 39.

on pg. 40. www.FaulknersRanch.com/pony-camp.php

Fairytale Ballet Experience the enchanting world of A

A ho-hum summer? No way. You’ll enjoy nature, sports, animals, art, music, movies and more. Reserve your spot today.

Call (877) 217-9530 to find a school near you.

LaPetite.com

Programs vary by school. See school for details. La Petite Academy, Inc. is an equal opportunity provider and employer. © 2014 La Petite Academy, Inc. License #C09OR0153

kcparent.com

LPA S14 Kansas City Parent 7.4x4.85.indd march 2014 36

1

1/29/14 11:14 AM

i9

and crafts, sports training, computers, nature

Youth sports the way they are meant to be

and science, leadership development, and

played! At i9 summer camp we offer flag foot-

music, theatre and dance. The choices include

ball, basketball and soccer leagues along with

indoor and outdoor programs, and full and par-

cheerleading for kids ages 2 to 14. In addition

tial day schedules. For details call 913.831.3359

to receiving tons of instruction and game-

or visit www.JCPRD.com/activities/camps.cfm.

play, campers are also taught daily lessons on

See display ad on pg. 41.

sportsmanship and how it relates to both sports and life. We provide an incomparable experi-

KC Watersports

ence that goes far beyond the game. Parents

Cool off with a day filled with fun on the water!

can expect convenience and unsurpassed or-

KC Watersports offers a Watersports Day Camp

ganization and communication. For details visit

for all ability levels. Whether you have never

www.i9sports.com or call 913.904.0810. Get

tried to wakeboarding, waterskiing or wake-

$10 off any camp with code KC Parent Magazine.

skating before or if you ride every weekend we

See display ad on pg. 38.

have a camp for you. Camps are offered from 8:30 am – 3:00 pm, Monday – Friday and age 7+

Johnson County Park & Recreation District

are welcome to join us. Find out more informa-

From Outdoor Discovery to Just for Fun, we of-

call 913.783.4300. See display ad on pg. 41.

tion at www.KCWatersports.com/day-camps or

fer over 55 professionally programmed and supervised camps conveniently located through-

Kansas City Ballet School

out Johnson County. Specializing in healthy and

Kansas City Ballet School Summer Programs in-

active options for kids of all ages, our summer

clude once-a-week Creative Movement classes

fun choices include preschool enrichment, arts

(ages 3-5) to special four-day Fairy Tale (ages

Label it!

Before sending your child to camp, be sure everything has a label on it! This way, what goes to camp will come home from camp (hopefully!). Kidcals are the perfect labels for any kid heading off to summer camp.

They are extremely durable and stay on everything. Once ready to remove, they come off easily.

And, with a variety of great designs, kids will want to put them everywhere. Kidcals.com

S U M M E R C A M PS

2 0 1 4

OVERNIGHT

Camps offered all across the metro, including Kansas City, Leawood, Lee’s Summit, Lenexa, Overland Park & Parkville!

KC Parent 2013 Winner: Favorite Drama Studio A Midsummer Night's Dre

am

Half & Full Day Camps - Ages 4-18 | Xtreme & Overnight Camps - Ages 10-19 Get Details & Sign Up at www.cytkc.org

REACH FOR THE STARS WITH CYT CAMPS! kcparent.com march 2014

37

Visit KCParent.com for the NEW Geo-based, searchable Camp Guide with maps, descriptions, photos, videos and more — your complete one-stop shop for camps!

3-5) and Story Book Ballet Workshops (ages

tian leaders. Included in tuition, each Kamper

classes, camps and private instruction on the

6-8) to 2- to 4-week Ballet classes (ages 7-13).

receives an age-specific devotional book for

campus of St. Teresa’s Academy. Our fabulous

Your child will enjoy excellent training and

use at Kamp and at home through the year. See

performance based Spring Break Camps will

superior attention while having fun. Classes

display ad on pg. 3. www.Kanakuk.com

be held March 17-21. Summer Camps begin in

begin June 2nd. Enroll today to guarantee your

June. Scholarships are available. 816.531.4022.

child’s spot. Two convenient locations: Down-

KampOut-Kanakuk

town and Johnson County 816.931.2299. See

KampOut is a high energy, non-stop excite-

display ad on pg. 45. www.KCBallet.org

ment, traveling day camp experience from

LaPetite Academy

Kanakuk! Every KampOut! Kamper will see

Kanakuk Kamps

Sign Up Now for the Best Summer Ever! Psssst!

and hear that God is a loving Father and

Hey, kid! Yes, you! How are you going to get the

Since 1926, Kanakuk has provided an inten-

wonderful Creator who loves them and desires

most fun out of summer? La Petite Academy’s

tional partnership with families to provide fun

for us to love others. Boys and girls from 6 to 12

got you covered! Join us for our Best Summer

experiences and spiritual training for their

years old will learn to pick-good friends and be

Ever to experience a variety of completely dif-

children. Kanakuk is a premier summer camp

a good friend because Jesus loved us first. See

ferent summer camps, from outdoor adventure

for boys and girls ages 7 – 18 years old located

display ad on pg. 33. www.ComeToKamp.com

to sports, music, drama and much more! You’ll

in Missouri. Kids have a blast with friends their and amazing themed parties. Directed by pres-

The KCYA Community School of the Arts

ident Joe White, the full-time and summer staff

The KCYA Community School of the Arts (CSA)

are committed to developing dynamic Chris-

offers children performing and visual arts

age participating in over 70 activities, sports

2014

like you! There’s plenty of fun for younger kids, too. A ho-hum summer? No way. Come be a part of the Best Summer Ever! Reserve your continued on pg. 42

ScienceCity.com/SummerCamp

Ages 6-12

Create. Explore. Experiment.

& Save!

love our great field trips – selected by kids just

Enroll Today! Space is Limited!

Summer Camp Become a Member

See display ad on pg. 32. www.KCYA.org

June 9– August 8 Join us as we spark interest in STEAM learning through interactive, challenging and FUN activities at Science City Summer Camp!

Registration Open For Spring Programs * Deadline is March 5 to Guarantee a Spot! * Programs Begin April 5th * Boys and Girls Ages 2-14 Summer Leagues and Camps Open for Registration Too! * Sports include Flag Football, Soccer, T-Ball, Coach Pitch Baseball, Basketball, Cheerleading & Instructional Lacrosse * Focus is on instruction, fun & good sportsmanship * Only one day a week commitment with practices & games on the same day.

For more information or to register visit www.i9sports.com or CALL 913-904-0810

38

kcparent.com march 2014

kcparent.com march 2014

39

CAMPGUIDE

summer camp

A

basics

s summer steadily approaches, parents all across Kansas City are beginning to think about activities to fill up their children’s free time. One option is summer camp. If you’ve been wondering what the hype is all about, look no further. We’re going to cover the types of camps offered, the questions you should be asking and items your kids will most likely need to pack.

Let’s start with traditional (over-

night) camp. The length of time offered ranges from one or two nights to eight weeks. Traditional camps typically offer the widest range of activities. Your child could go swimming, sailing, play soccer or football, learn archery, put on a play, go hiking and horseback riding and so much more, all in one place. The only potential downside is that there probably won’t be much room on the agenda for academics.

They’ll be having too much fun!

Camp Special Beginnings NOW ENROLLING FOR SUMMER Friends • Swimming Quality Christian early care & education since 1987!

• Laughter • Sports • Art • Parties • Smiles Mention this ad • Field Trips • Fun • and receive FREE registration!

Community Service New families only • Great Memories!

Where your search starts and ends

Convenient Lenexa location 1st-6th grade Full/part-time 10216 Pflumm Rd.

913.634.7060 www.specialbeginningsonline.com

40

kcparent.com march 2014

Search by location through Google Maps plus see photos, videos and more.

KCParent.com/Guides

The second type of camp is day camp. Most day camp programs offer shorter sessions lasting a month or less, but there are a few eight-week programs as well, depending on your location. Day camps offer many of the same activities as traditional camps do. The potential downside is the drive time to and from the camp every day to deliver and pick up your child.

Within the overnight and day camp programs are subcategories. There are traditional programs, specialty programs and special needs programs. Let’s examine the latter two.

Specialty camps typically focus on a particular sport, the arts, religion or academics. Kansas City mom Deb ClemBucker says her daughter loved Johnson County Community College’s programs.

“They have some great science, theater and art camps, as well as educational ones.” These are just a few of dozens of specialty camps being offered in the area.

Special needs camps offer programs for children who have physical or psychological impairments, such as blindness, diabetes, obesity, severe behavioral problems, autism and cerebral palsy. Camp Planet D in Kansas City is an overnight camp for children ages 7 to 14 with diabetes. Heather Jack of Overland Park says, “When I worked at the SpeechLanguage-Hearing clinic at the University of Kansas in Lawrence, they had a fantastic summer camp. It was for children with and without challenges with speech. We could barely keep up with demand” There are camp programs for everything you can think of. The next step is determining what your child’s interests and needs are in selecting the right camp.

Here are some important questions to consider, thanks to PBSKids.org:

• Is your child ready for overnight camp?

• How far away will you be comfortable with his going?

• What length of time will suit him best?

• Would a big camp be ideal or a smaller, more personal environment?

• What activities would your child enjoy most?

• Do you want a co-ed camp?

• How much structure do you want your child to have there?

• Would a general camp or a specialty camp be preferable?

• What camps are within your budget?

Once you’ve determined what type of camp would best suit your child’s needs, the next step is finding a camp.

Don’t be afraid to reach out to a few camps you’re interested in and conduct a bit more research. Asking questions about their counselor-to-camper ratio, first aid certifications and camp accreditation can help you feel more at ease.

Camp can be a great way for your child to explore her independence a bit without stretching outside the safety parameter. Kids also get to try new things, learn, socialize and above all else, have fun!

Jennifer Bosse is a wife and mom living in Kansas City. She can’t wait for summer fun.

what to pack This isn’t an all-inclusive list. It’s always best to check with your child’s camp for a complete guide, but these are some general items that will definitely need to be packed.

• Hat • Glasses/contacts and cleaning solution • Prescription medication • Clothes • Rain gear • Athletic support • Socks • Comb or brush • Deodorant • Bug repellant • Shampoo and conditioner • Toothbrush • Sunblock • Soap in carrier • Camera • Flashlight

Day Camps - Lessons - Surf Club Birthday Parties - Private Rentals New & Used Boats - 2 Cable Systems Fun Lake - Boat House Pizzeria

www.kcwatersports.com kcparent.com march 2014

41

CAMPGUIDE spot today. Call 877.217.9530 for detail and visit us at www.LAPetite.com. See display ad on pg. 36.

Liberty Meadows Riding Academy Looking for a new and exciting adventure this summer? If so, then join us at Liberty Meadows for a fun filled week of horses. Two sessions will be offered for children ages 6 and up. Along with learning about basic horse safety, care and grooming, campers will ride horses daily.

Space is limited so enroll today! 816.547.0602.

ACTING CLASSES ALL OVER KANSAS CITY! Spring & Summer Sessions NOW ENROLLING

Registration, class descriptions & locations online at thecoterie.org or call 816-474-4241

SPRING SESSION March - May

See display ad pg.42.

Grades K-1st Grades 2nd-4th Grades 4th-6th Grades 5th-7th Grades 8th-12th

www.Liberty-Meadows.com

Dr. Seuss and You! Be a Super Inventor with Phineas & Ferb Step Through the Wardrobe Audition Lab Acting for the Camera Audition Lab

Music House Music House Summer Camps are all about

SUMMER SESSION June 9 - August 8

growth and exploration. Join a band, perform

Week-long half-day and full-day drama classes for students entering grades 3-12; week-long half-day classes for students entering grades K-2. Performance camps include:

on stage, make a video, try a new instrument,

Incoming Grades 5-8 Honk, Jr. Incoming Grades 5-10 The Hobbit Incoming Grades 9-12 10 Ways to Survive the Zombie Apocalypse

what you choose, you’re sure to learn to think

write a song and much more. Regardless of independently while working cooperatively.

Camps are crafted for ages 6-8, 9-12, and 13-17, vocalists and instrumentalists, absolute beginners through seasoned pros. Check out the Mu-

• Horseback Riding Lessons (Beginner to Advanced)

• Birthday Parties • Lesson Packages Available

sic House website to read about our amazing

Summer camps!

faculty. See display ad on pg. 33. 913.562.4112 www.MusicHouseSchool.com

The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art “Camp out” this summer at the Nelson-Atkins!

Ages 6-12 can participate in art classes, make new friends and have many fun-filled activities led by camp counselors in full day, week-long camp sessions, July 14-August 8; 9 a.m. - 4

LIBERTY MEADOWS TRAINING CENTER 21000 Switzer Rd. Bucyrus, KS 66013 Ryan Strand & Elise Worman 816.547.0602 | info@liberty-meadows.com

p.m., with an extended day option. Visits from “mystery guests” (museum staff members who work with art every day) will occur throughout the week to give students “inside access” to the museum. Four different themes: Sculpture A to Z, Drawn from the Imagination, Act it Out, and Cartooning + Animation. See www.nelson-atkins.org for full details. See display ad on pg. 46.

Nerman Museum Early Explorations classes (ages 5-7) and Contemporary Creations classes (ages 8-11) are

42

kcparent.com march 2014

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 10-July 25, with individual sessions from 10AM-noon or 2PM-4PM. A special Portfolio Week is offered June 10-13 and 3-D Art

Sign up for summer camp!

Week runs June 17-20. Register at www.JCCC.edu/youth or call 913.469.2323. See display ad on pg. 32.

Paint, Glaze & Fire Ceramics & Coffee House Camp ARTRAGEOUS! Paint Glaze & Fire Ceramics & Coffee House is offering summer camp for its 16th season! Your child will learn new techniques and have fun creating art in our mixed media (ceramics, clay, canvas & glass fusion). Class size is limited - sign up early!

Check it out online and find more information as well as a registration form at

Exp. 3/31/14

www.PaintGlazeAndFire.net (Available early March). For more information on these and many other fun and creative programs, visit the website. See display ad on pg. 44.

913.661.CLAY (2529).

Pembroke Hill Summer at Pembroke Hill is dedicated to providing a unique learning experience in a meaningful and inspiring environment.

Designed to accommodate your family’s busy schedule, our program offers flexibility by allowing you to enroll in any of the weeks you choose. Open to the community, students ages 2-18 are able to participate in our comprehensive camp. Please join us this summer as we celebrate the 80th anniversary of the Summer at Pembroke Hill program! See display ad on pg. 41. www.PembrokeHill.org

Science City Science City Summer Camp 2014 provides a fun, hands-on environment to explore exciting STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and math) topics. Campers ages 6-12 engage continued on pg. 46 kcparent.com march 2014

43

the great news about

CAMPGUIDE

homesickness T

hat’s right . . . there’s great news about homesickness! For starters, you should know that: Homesickness (or “missing home”) is normal. In study after study, researchers found that 95 percent of boys and girls who were spending at least two weeks at overnight camp felt some degree of homesickness. Children at day camp may also feel pangs of homesickness, but less frequently.

Homesickness is typically mild.

Nearly everyone misses something about home when they’re away. Some campers most miss their parents; others most miss home cooking, a sibling or the family pet.

Whatever they miss, the vast majority of children have a great time at camp and are not bothered by mild homesickness.

Homesickness is something everyone can learn to cope with. In fact, research has uncovered multiple strate-

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kcparent.com march 2014

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gies that work for kids. Most kids use more than one strategy to help them deal with homesickness.

Homesickness builds confidence.

Overcoming a bout of homesickness and enjoying time away from home nurtures children’s independence and prepares them for the future. The fact that secondyear campers are usually less homesick than first-year campers is evidence of this powerful growth.

Homesickness has a silver lining.

If there’s something about home children miss, that means there’s something about home they love — and that’s a wonderful thing. Sometimes just knowing that what they feel is a reflection of love makes campers feel much better.

So if nearly everyone feels some homesickness, what can be done to prevent a really strong case of homesickness? Here’s a recipe for positive camp preparation: • Make camp decisions together.

• Arrange lots of practice time away from home.

• Share your optimism, not your anxiety.

• Stay focused. Remember that you’re not at camp forever, just a few weeks. Bringing a calendar to camp helps you be clear about the length of your stay.

• Never ever make a pick-up deal.

OK, then, what are the most effective ways of coping with homesickness at camp? What advice can you write in a letter or e-mail to your son or daughter if you get a homesick letter?

• Stay confident. Anti-homesickness strategies take some time to work. Kids who stick with their strategies for five or six days almost always feel better.

Anti-Homesickness Strategies for Kids:

• Stay busy. Doing a fun, physical activity nearly always reduces homesickness intensity.

Mom and Dad, your help preparing your child for this amazing growth experience will pay huge dividends. After a session of camp, you’ll see an increase in your child’s confidence, social skills and leadership. And while your son or daughter is at camp, you can enjoy a welldeserved break. Remember, homesickness is part of normal development. Our job should be to coach children through the experience, not to avoid the topic altogether.

• Stay positive. Remembering all the cool stuff you can do at camp keeps the focus on fun, not on home.

• Stay in touch. Writing letters, looking at a photo from home or holding a memento from home can be very comforting.

• Stay social. Making new friends is a perfect antidote to bothersome homesickness. Talking to the staff at camp is also reassuring.

Originally printed in CAMP Magazine, reprinted by permission of the American Camp Association © 2006 American Camping Association, Inc.

PLAN AHEAD WITH OUR SUMMER PROGRAMS FOR AGES 3-14 SUMMER PROGRAMS 2014 Classes are designed to provide your child with excellent ballet training and superior attention from our professional teachers, all while having fun. Classes begin June 2.

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SPACE IS LIMITED. . .ENROLL TODAY! 816-931-2299 | www.kcballet.org/school for a complete list of summer courses

kcparent.com march 2014

45

camp guide

{by the numbers}

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unique visitors to the virtual camp guide in 2013

+

104,000 readers each issue of KC Parent Magazine

=

A unique web + print package that increases exposure and leverages multi-media platforms!

Visit KCParent.com for the NEW Geo-based, searchable Camp Guide with maps, descriptions, photos, videos and more — your complete one-stop shop for camps!

CAMPGUIDE in life science, physical science, art and tech-

wrap around care is available at no additional

nology each week! Space is limited! Camps

charge. Register at www.VineyardOP.org by

run June 9-Aug. 8, Monday through Friday,

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9:00-4:00. Early and late care available. $180/ week for Union Station Members, $200/non-

Victory Soccer Camp

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816.460.2226. See display ad on pg. 38.

He played professional soccer for 19 years and coached professionally. Victory Soccer

Vineyard Church of Overland Park

Camp provides professional quality soccer

Looking for a low-cost, fun-packed, summer

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kcparent.com march 2014

NelsonAtkins_KCParent_Mar2014_2.indd 1

2/14/14 10:41 AM

one nervous

BLOGBITS

E

ach year as we put together our camp guides, I love seeing all of the different camp options that are available for area kids and choosing day camps for my girls to attend. With both girls homebodies, imagine my surprise when Tori announced she wanted to attend overnight camp this year. The camp had done a presentation at her school, and she came home fired up and ready to attend. After researching the camp, Ty

camp parent

and I decided to let her go (it also helped that three school friends would be attending the same camp).

So we now have one excited soon-to-be camper and one nervous Nellie left-at-home parent.

I honestly never thought I’d find myself in the role of “parent of a child who attends overnight camp,” so I’m a bit unprepared. See, I’m the type of person who likes control and likes to know what my kids are up to. And for three days this summer, I won’t have any control over what Tori is doing and won’t have any idea of what she’s up to. It’s making me a bit uneasy, and I’m already worried, imagining all sorts of situations: What if she’s homesick? What if she gets hurt or sick? Will they call me?

Will she make friends? Will she be polite and remember her manners? And the list goes on.

I try to calm myself by looking at

things logically (what a novel idea!).

Many of her friends have attended the camp, and they love it. She asked to go.

She’s going with a friend. I’ve looked thoroughly into the camp, and it seems like a terrific program. She’ll be learning so many things she otherwise wouldn’t learn. She’s growing up and gaining independence. And that’s what I think it really boils down to. Overnight camp is just one more step down the road to growing up, maturing and, at some future point, moving on and moving out. I, for one, am just not ready for this. It boggles my mind that my firstborn is already of the overnight camp age.

And so, this summer, I’ll find myself in a new role: the mom whose child attends overnight camp. Just like with every other milestone, I’ll worry and fret, and in the end, everything will end up just fine—and I’ll earn one more notch on my parenting belt.

Margaret Sarver spends way too much time worrying about things she has no control over in Lenexa.

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MU S14 Kansas City Parent 7.4x4.85.indd 1

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kcparent.com 1/22/14 march 20148:43 AM

manners still matter civilizing children in an uncivilized world

O

nce upon a time, Miss Manners surely would have insisted that young boys bow and little girls curtsey when introduced to adults. But today that same Judith Martin—the etiquette queen whose Dear Abby-style manners column graces newspaper pages nationwide—probably would agree that a handshake or a smile and nod are just as polite.

And while some social graces get slight makeovers over time, one thing is certain: Good manners never go out of style.

In fact, they are the foundation of a civilized society and what child rearing is all about, Martin says in her often humorous yet spot-on book, Miss Manner’s Guide to Rearing Perfect Children.

Unfortunately, not everyone has read Martin’s book. The evidence is in a 2012 Rasmussen poll that found 76 percent of Americans think fellow citizens are ruder and less civilized now than a couple decades ago.

Some blame the decline on celebrity role models who behave badly.

While others say society’s standards of rudeness are simply changing.

Whatever the cause, here are some ways to help your child do you—and Miss Manners—proud.

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kcparent.com march 2014

remember the golden rule

Manners are about treating people the way you want to be treated rather than focusing on how people treat you.

So encourage children to be considerate and make others feel comfortable, as well as respect themselves, says Sandra Tompkins, a certified children’s etiquette consultant.

“Even sitting at a table and eating properly is showing respect to the person eating with you,” says the Overland Park mom to two adult sons and a teenage daughter.

Likewise, Angela Adrian, Gardner, rarely drops off her two children at school without reminding them to make good choices and to “do something for someone to show them God’s love.”

Recently, Adrian heard from another mom that her morning reminders were paying off. Her 8-year-old boy had spoken kindly and reassuringly to the woman’s son, who was being teased in class.

When the Adrian children experience incivility, their mom encourages them not to get discouraged but to brush it off and walk away. However, they know to report to an adult if someone is in danger or getting hurt.

forget about osmosis If you think your children will somehow pick up proper manners at school, at church or through friends, then you’re gambling with their training. Parents need to be deliberate and consistent in their approach, according to Nancy Damron, Ph.D., dean of the School of Education at MidAmerica Nazarene University in Olathe. And they should not expect children to learn everything on their own.

“We must model it, live it, explain it and praise each other when we uphold what is right and treat each other with manners and love,” says Damron, mother to a 13-year-old son and 11-year-old daughter.

Damron says that much of the training future teachers receive easily translates into parenting, especially “teacher think-alouds,” which explain the rationale behind a behavior while modeling it.

“This helps reinforce with purpose what you want them to do as they become more independent in society,” she says.

Tompkins suggests also talking children through rough situations, such as seeing a parent lose control at a child’s sporting event. It’s important to discuss

how that person could have responded civilly, she says.

And sometimes the children themselves enjoy doing the modeling.

Karen Hayse, mom to three daughters—ages 4, 6 and 26—says her younger girls “think it’s hysterical to be allowed to be melodramatically rude that one time and then show us the way to act instead.”

nurture an attitude of gratitude Although snail mail is slowly going the way of VHS tapes and floppy disks, Tompkins says that a handwritten thank you is polite and should be sent before children use gifts.

Hayse, too, helps her daughters write notes but sometimes opts for something less traditional.

“We do a video of the girls with their gifts,” says Hayse, who also has taught 23 years in the Shawnee Mission School District. “They talk about why they like the gifts, say thank you, and we post on YouTube and send the link to the giver. We’ve done this many times, and people love it!”

begin at the beginning It’s never too early to start teaching manners. In fact, some children learn hand signs for “please” and “thank you” long before they can talk.

Ever since Adrian started her home daycare, she has realized children learn early to test limits.

“Say a 12-month-old is hitting another child with a toy. Correct him. Say, ‘Ouch! Let’s play nice.’ Or ‘Let’s give our friends nice touches,’” Adrian says.

“He may not completely understand, but he will see the better option.”

But she warns: “If you have a silly reaction to a ‘bad’ manner—he will make that one part of his entertaining act for sure.”

And judging by the sentiments in her book, Miss Manners wouldn’t be surprised.

Melinda Ablard Smith is wife to one amazing man, mother to two great kiddos and owner to three Chihuahuas that wouldn’t know a manner if it bit them. She lives in Olathe and teaches journalism at MidAmerica Nazarene University.

mastering mealtime Gadget-centric communication leaves few opportunities for real conversations. So supper is a great time for families to practice manners and connect.

Here are four simple recipes for cooking up some tasty table talk.

Pull up a chair. Dinner conversations happen, well, over dinner. So the main ingredient for quality family chats is table time. Avoid meals in front of the TV or other places that divert attention from each other.

Can the phones. Electronic devices keep family members unengaged— even when they’re in the same room.

Instead of disconnecting from each other, pull the plug on gadgets, especially at mealtime.

Whip up a conversation. If your family gets talker’s block, then you might enjoy conversation starters like those in Dinner Talk: 365 Engaging Conversations to Help You and Your Family Connect, by Emily Hall and her parents, Philip and Nancy Hall. Or take a cue from the Hayse family and take turns telling something good about the day.

Then ask each other follow-up questions.

Extend the discourse. Who says the conversation has to end just because the meal does? While everyone is gathered, break out the board games and brush up on another area of etiquette: good sportsmanship.

kcparent.com march 2014

49

MEDIAMIX

babies, bunnies & more Spring Brings Stories with Imagination and Charm to Bookstores

By McGeath Freeman

Little Frog’s Tadpole Trouble

By Tatyana Feeney Best for: Ages 0-4

How many books can be written about children learning to deal with a new baby? It’s a rhetorical question, but if I had to answer, I’d say an infinite number. Or at least one for every child who has been told they are going to be a big brother or big sister.

tadpoles take all of Mommy’s and Daddy’s attention. Little Frog can’t even get a bedtime story or goodnight kiss. When he resorts to name calling, his father explains that they won’t be tadpoles for long, and then Little Frog will have nine playmates around the house.

Little Frog’s Tadpole Trouble begins by letting us know just how perfect Little Frog’s world is. Then he finds out he is the big brother to nine tadpoles. Little Frog is not impressed, because they don’t do anything. Then he is angry because the

In all of Feeney’s books, she tackles the common anxieties of early childhood. In this one, she doesn’t tread on any new ground. But that doesn’t diminish the fact that Little Frog’s Tadpole Trouble is done very well.

What’s good: Childlike illustrations with whimsical energy that will delight your children.

What’s bad: Another book about becoming a big brother.

PoemMobiles: Crazy Car Poems

By J. Patrick Lewis and Douglas Florian Illustrated by Jeremy Holmes Best for: Ages 4-8

Lewis and Florian create whimsical, fantastical and engaging poems about automobiles. From the high heel car that is a size 84 to the supersonic ionic car that “runs on spaghetti and nuclear power,” you won’t find a normal car in the lot.

I said that these poems could stand without illustrations, but I am glad to say they don’t have to. Holmes creates

sensational images throughout the 15 spreads that rival the poems for creativity and detail. Children will be able to sit and stare at the pictures for hours. PoemMobiles is a fun book for read-aloud story time at home or in a classroom. It also will make a fine distraction for your children at a restaurant when you are eating out for dinner.

What’s good: Fantastic illustrations and fun verse.

What’s bad: Nothing.

Lord and Lady Bunny— Almost Royalty!

By Polly Horvath Illustrated by Sophie Blackall Best for: Ages 8-12

This wonderful book is the sequel to Mr. and Mrs. Bunny—Detectives Extraordinaire! Don’t worry if you didn’t read the first one, this Lord and Lady Bunny stands on its own as it follows two highlyintertwined story lines. One follows Mr. and Mrs. Bunny (yes, real bunnies) as they head from Canada to England so that Mrs. Bunny can follow her dream to become queen. The other follows

Madeline, who wants to save money for college, and her very hippie parents as they head to England to run a newlyinherited sweet shoppe. The stories are delightful, but the character development and dialogue make this book a page-turner. It has a great sense of humor and zest that makes me want to go back and start all over with the first book in the series.

What’s good: Fantastic character dialogue makes it fun to read aloud.

What’s bad: The transition between storylines is a little clunky at times.

50

kcparent.com march 2014

Partnering with parents and the church to prepare college-ready witnesses for Christ who A University Model School© wherespeak a student’s know, love, and compassionately the schedule truth.

mirrors that of a university, allowing parents and educators to work together to prepare students for success in college and beyond.

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Classes held at Community Covenant Church, 15700 West 87th Street Parkway, Lenexa, Kansas Contact the school at 913-831-1345 or questions@christprep.com for informational meeting dates and times

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51

march

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

CALENDAR

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

52

kcparent.com march 2014

OZ AT CROWN CENTER

support

see

learn

explore

celebrate

Make plans to attend the Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast on March 7 at 7:30 at the Westin Crown Center. Enjoy green eggs and ham and guest readers to benefit Reach Out and Read. $60.

913.588.2793

The beloved story -book character comes to life in Theatre for Young America’s production of Junie B Jones and a Little Monkey Business.

A show the entire family will enjoy!

Through April 12.

TYA.org

Learn about migratory birds at the Kansas City Zoo’s Zootastik Learning Fest on March 8 at 10:00. Enjoy activities, demonstrations and crafts in the main lobby.

KansasCityZoo.org

Follow the yellow brick road to Crown Center and explore the wonderful world of Oz at the 75 Years of Oz, Oh My! display. Free and open through May 4, the exhibit celebrates all things Oz! 816.274.8444

Travel to India without leaving home!

Attend Passport to India: Family Cultural Festival at 12:30 on March 30 at the Nelson-Atkins.

Enjoy dance, fashions, art and food of India!

Nelson-Atkins.org

1 saturday

Just Between Friends Sale Thru March 2, Overland Park Int’l Trade Center. Last two days to save big on spring fashions! JBFSale.com Home Depot Kids Workshop 9:00, Home Depot stores. Bring in the kids for a free hands-on workshop and build something together.

HomeDepot.com Kids and Clay 9:30, Ceramic Café. Kids learn basic skills such as hand building, slab work, pinch pots, etc., and create a fun masterpiece. $16.

913.383.0222 Open House & Happy 1st Birthday 10:00 Primrose School (Overland Park) Join us for cake, face painting, balloon artists & more! Learn about our programs and enroll for the Fall! 913.400.2435 Signs of Spring 10:00, Anita B Gorman Conservation Discovery Center. Explore the grounds and uncover what plants and animals are emerging as the weather warms. 816.759.7300 Happy Birthday, Dr. Seuss! 11:00, Lakeshore Learning. Stop by for stories, crafts games and more! Free. 913.432.3998 Glinda the Good Witch Noon, Crown Center Shops. Glinda the Good Witch appears at Crown Center, posing for photos and visiting with fans.

Free. 816.274.8444

Cat in the Hat Noon, Paradise Park. You could not, would not want to miss this fun. The Cat in the Hat visits! 816.246.5224 Lunch with the Birds 12:30, Martha Lafite Thompson Nature Sanctuary. Bring your lunch and sit in the bird viewing area to watch and discuss birding. Free. 816.781.8598 Maple Sugaring 1:00, Burr Oak Woods Nature Center. Savor this wonder of nature by learning how to tap trees, collect sap and make delicious syrup from native trees. Pre-reg. 816.228.3766 Dr Seuss’s Birthday Party 2:00, Mid-Continent Public Library (Lee’s Summit). Celebrate Dr Seuss’s birthday with children’s songwriter and storyteller Dinosaur O’Dell. MyMCPL.org Monthly Nature Hike 2:00, George Owens Nature Park. Get outdoors and enjoy a hike with park staff to see the seasonal changes of the woods, glade and lakes. 816.325.7115 Dracula Thru March 2, Kauffman Center. Date night! The Kansas City Ballet performs this acclaimed show. KCBallet.org Little Women, the Musical 8:00, Olathe Civic Theatre Association. Family friendly fun! The show follows the adventures of Meg, Jo, Beth and Amy. $12-$17. 913.782.2990

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

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

Visit Sea Life 10:00, Sea Life Aquarium (Crown Center). Come nose to nose with sharks and prepare for close views of everything from starfish and seahorses to rays. VisitSeaLife.com art + family = FUN 1:00, Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Join us every Saturday and Sunday for free activities for all ages! 816.751.

3 monday

75 Years of Oz, Oh My! 10:00, Crown Center.

There’s no place like Crown Center to celebrate the 75th anniversary of The Wizard of Oz with this interactive display for families. Free. 816.274.8444 Spring Registration Thru March 5, i9 Sports. Sign up today for spring sports programs. $10 off with code KC Parent Magazine. www.i9Sports.com Toddler Time 10:00, Bonner Springs Community Center. Bring your toddler in to jump and have some fun! 913.422.7010 Writers Contest Thru March 31, KCPT Kids.

Authors and illustrators in grades K thru 3 are encouraged to submit stories. www.KCPT.org/write

TWO GREAT NEW WAYS TO CELEBRATE A BIRTHDAY!

www.LEGOLANDDiscoveryCenter.com

www.visitsealife.com

Win an Your Ultimate Birthday to LEGOLAND Center SEA LIFE! Host Birthday Party atParty LEGOLAND DiscoveryDiscovery Center or SEA LIFEorAquarium!

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• Admission for each guest guest • Private • Private LEGO build/aquarium tour Birthday • Beverages • Admission for each party room • Personalized Cake • Beverages • Private party roomVisit for 75 • Personalized Birthday Cake816.471.4FUN•(4386) Papa Murphy’s Pizza us minutes online for more information or call

Register for a chance to win: legolanddiscoverycenter.com/kansascity/kcstarbirthday kcparent.com

march 2014

53

Toddler Takeover

March 5, 10:00, Kansas City North Community Center. Bring your little ones under 4 to run and play in the gym. $1. 816.784.6100 Power Hour 1:00, Little Monkey Bizness. Arrive between 1:00 and 3:00 on Monday and Wednesday and admission is just $5 plus tax!

913.631.7000

4 tuesday

Preschool Indoor Playground 9:30, Irene B French Community Center (Merriam). Kids will enjoy inflatable bouncers, Little Tykes riding toys and MORE! $2. 913.322.5550 Junie B Jones and a Little Monkey Business 10:00, Theatre for Young America (Union Station).

A musical adaptation of the wildly popular book

by Barbara Park. TYA.org Indoor Play 10:00, Rainbow Play Systems. Bring the kids to run, jump and play on the swing sets and equipment. $4/child. 913.780.6500 2-for-1 Tuesday 5:00, Crown Center Ice Terrace.

After 5:00, pay one full price admission and receive a second for free. 816.274.8444 Discover Maranatha Open House 6:00, Maranatha North Campus. Come see all we have to offer your kids! Meet the teachers, tour the classrooms and more. MCA-Eagles.org

Order #11 7:00, National Frontier Trails Museum. Guest lecturer Jim Howk will talk about the compelling story behind the Civil Wars’ Order #11. 816.325.7575

5 wednesday

Stories for Ones 9:30, Waldo Library. Bring your 1-year-old to a story time geared toward this age group.

816.701.3486 Pixie Class 9:30, Skate City (Overland Park).

Bring kids ages 2-6 to learn to skate safely while having fun. Snack included. $5. 913.888.6668 Toddler Takeover 10:00, Kansas City North Community Center. Bring your little ones under 4 to run and play in the gym. $1. 816.784.6100 Janie Next Door 10:00, Johnson County Museum. Join the fun as Janie Next Door presents her enthusiastic, upbeat show. Must pre-reg. $3.

913.715.2575 Free Play Cedar Ridge Christian Church. Daily free play for young children while parents enjoy a coffee drink. 913.393.3000 Animal Tales 10:30, Ernie Miller Nature Center.

Visit the nature center for stories, songs and surprises. Meet a special animal friend every time. $2. 913.764.7759

6 thursday Tales for Tiny Tykes 9:30 & 10:30, Plaza Library.

Toddlers ages 18-36 months can listen to a 20-minute story time followed with a craft.

816.701.3481 Thursday Fun Deal 10:00, Amazing Play. Bring as

8 t h A n n u al G r een E g g s & Ham B r ea k f a st

Friday, March 7 at 7:30am Westin Crown Center 1 E Pershing Rd, KCMO Honorary host: Walsh Family Foundation Emcee: John Holt (Fox 4) Keynote Speaker: Dr. Jim Hinson Superintendent Shawnee Mission School District

www.reachoutandread.org

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kcparent.com march 2014

many kids as you can get in your car, pay full price for the first, half price for the rest on select attractions. AmazingPlayFunCenter.com Free Play Cedar Ridge Christian Church. Daily free play for young children while parents enjoy a coffee drink. 913.393.3000 Preschool Playtime 9:30, Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church. Join us for an open gym with various toys and equipment. Snack and drink provided. 913.579.6867 Bumper Bowling 10:00, Mission Bowl. Bowling, shoe rental, bumpers for preschoolers & a small soft drink for only $3. 913.432.7000 Sound of Music 10:00, Goppert Theatre (Avila University). Postulant-turned-governess Maria brings music back into the lives of the seven children. $8-10. CYTKC.org Hard Hat Tour 2:00, Kansas City Museum. Take a hard hat tour of Corinthian Hall and see how it looks mid-renovation. KansasCityMuseum.org Family Science Night at the Zoo 5:30, Kansas City Zoo. Join us for hands-on zoo science nights for families to enjoy. Tonight’s theme: Sensational Senses. Free. 816.513.5800

7 friday Grand Opening Event Thru March 9, Lakeshore Learning. Raffles, free crafts, giveaways, games,

product demos and more! 913.432.3998 Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast 7:30, Westin Crown Center. Enjoy green eggs and ham, a wacky photo booth and guest readers. $60. Benefits Reach Out and Read. 913.588.2793 Story Time 10:30, Gymboree Store (Independence Mall). Join Gymboree of Lee’s Summit for fun songs and stories. 816.525.7529 Friday Playgroup 10:30, Turner Community Library. Little ones have fun listening to stories and joining in on crafts and songs. 913.596.1404 Story Time 10:30 & 11:30, Shawnee Books & Toys.

Bring in the kids to participate in our weekly story time, craft and a snack. 913.962.1428 Paint Me a Story 10:30, Paint, Glaze and Fire.

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

913.661.2529 Friday Family Night 6:00, Cool Crest. Every Friday for only $21.99, enjoy unlimited soft play (four guests), 100 arcade tokens, large pizza and four drinks. 816.358.0088 First Fridays 7:00, Crossroads Art District. Galleries and shops remain open the first Friday of each month. KCCrossroads.org Great Expectations 7:00, Van Horn High School.

Charles Dickens’ timeless story comes to life

with beautiful marionettes. Ages 12 and up. $20.

816.833.9777 The Jungle Book 7:30, Blue Springs City Theatre.

An action-packed adaptation of the classic adventure story. BlueSpringsCityTheatre.com

8 saturday

Zootastik Learning Fest 10:00, KC Zoo. Learn all about migratory birds on International Migratory Bird Day. Activities, demonstrations and crafts in the main lobby. KansasCityZoo.org Spring Holiday Dress-Up Event 10:00 Children’s Orchard (KCMO, Olathe, Lee’s Summit, Independence). All the best looks for spring holidays at your favorite prices. ChildOrch.com Beginning Birding 10:00, Burr Oak Woods Nature Center. Join a naturalist to learn some tips on how to get started with birding. Pre-reg.

816.228.3766 Mother Nature Reads 10:00, Lakeside Nature Center. Come to hear a story, learn cool facts about animals and make a craft. 816.513.8960 Beautiful Butterfly 11:00, Lakeshore Learning.

Spring is coming...and it’s time to celebrate with a lovable, kid-crafted butterfly. Free. 913.432.3998 Blue Springs Art League Show Today & tomorrow, Vesper Hall. Show includes more than 100 displays of photography, mixed media, drawing,

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55

Danú

March 8, 8:00, JCCC (Yardley Hall). Danú mixes ancient Irish music with contemporary works to create an unforgettable evening. 913.469.4445 sculptures and more. Free. 816.228.0137 Second Saturdays 11:00, Grinter Place State Historic Site. Learn about Kansas City-area history and stay for lunch prepared on the wood stove.

913.299.0373 Meet Me at the Museum 1:00, Kemper Museum.

Join a Kemper Museum docent for a lively discussion and tour of the museum’s current exhibitions. Free. 816.753.5784 Sound of Music 2:00 & 8:00, Goppert Theatre (Avila University). Postulant-turned-governess Maria brings music back into the lives of the seven children. $8-10. CYTKC.org Live Animal Feeding 3:00, Martha Lafite Thompson Nature Sanctuary. Come watch our snakes, turtles and other animals do what comes naturally: eating! Free. 816.781.8598 Comedy Magic Show 4:00, KC Improv. Devin Henderson will entertain and amaze! A show for the entire family. $7. 816.759.5233 Second Saturdays 4:00, Historic Downtown Weston. Stroll into unique shops and galleries for late night shopping and in-store specials.

WestonMO.com

Drawn to Murder 6:30, Golden Ox. Date night! The Mystery Train presents an interactive murder-mystery dinner theater. $59-$69. 816.813.9654 Lee’s Summit Symphony Spring Classic Concert 7:30, Lee’s Summit High School. Enjoy a performance from the Lee’s Summit Symphony. $6-$12.

816.401.5251 Little Women, the Musical 8:00, Olathe Civic Theatre Association. Family friendly fun! The show follows the adventures of Meg, Jo, Beth and Amy. $12-$17. 913.782.2990 Danú 8:00, JCCC (Yardley Hall). Danú mixes ancient Irish music with contemporary works to create an unforgettable evening. 913.469.4445

9 sunday: daylight savings Visit LEGOLAND 10:00, LEGOLAND Discovery Center. Spend the day creating with Legos. Be sure to visit the newly remodeled Lego Friends area. 816.471.4386 Ice Skating 10:00, Crown Center Ice Terrace.

Enjoy a day of skating with the family at KC’s only

outdoor rink. CrownCenter.com Story Time for Preschoolers 1:30, Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Young ones will enjoy stories in Noguchi Court the second Sunday of each month. 816.751.1278 Retro Skate 7:00, B & D South Skate Center. Turn back time and take a spin at the rink. Admission and rental only 50 cents each! 816.252.1084

10 monday St Patties Week Thru March 17, Paradise Park.

Enjoy leprechaun approved fun. Outdoor attrac-

Kansas City’s Irish Restaurants St. Patrick’s Day is just around the corner, so why not take the family out to a delicious meal of fish ‘n chips, shepherd’s pie, corned beef and cabbage or Irish stew at one of Kansas City’s authentic Irish restaurants!

O’Malley’s 1842 Irish Pub (WestonIrish.com). O’Malley’s serves authentic Irish fare in an authentic Irish-American pub, complete with Irish music. You can choose indoor or patio dining (where you see the famous World’s Largest Ball of String).

The menu includes salads, sandwiches, steaks, soups and, of course, fish and chips. I enjoy the signature sandwich, “The O’Malley,” which is corned beef, swiss cheese and slaw on marble rye bread with spicy brown mustard. Also, read our Weston Day Trip Diary on KCParent.com for more fun in Weston!

Browne’s Irish Market (BrownesMarket.com). The Irish Market opened in Kansas City in 1887. Now, the fifth generation of the family carries on the tradition, serving a wide variety of Irish delicacies. Enjoy handmade sandwiches, Irish potato soup, Irish stew, Dublin potato salad and more, as well as Irish souvenirs.

On St. Patrick’s Day, Browne’s serves a traditional Irish breakfast, beginning at 7:00, with Irish lunch specials in the afternoon.

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O’Dowd’s Little Dublin (ODowdsLittleDublin.com). O’Dowd’s Little Dublin is known for “the BEST American pub eats and Irish treats in Kansas City!” Enjoy fish and chips, Irish stew, corned beef, reubens, and shephepd’s pie. O’Dowd’s boasts an authentic Irish interior with imported woodwork creating a pharmacy, library and cigar shop—an amazing Irish atmosphere!

Riley’s Irish Pub & Grill (RileysPub.net). Riley’s dishes up traditional Irish fare from a classic reuben to fish and chips, and they have a delightfully themed menu for the wee ones! Riley’s Irish Pub is located on Block 42 in Lexington, MO. Legend has it that Block 42 was so named because it was the location of 42 saloons and one Church...women and children were not permitted to walk on the saloon side of the road. Today, Riley’s is a family-friendly Irish restaurant with a charming historic ambiance. Built in the 1890s, the pub has original stained glass windows, tile floor, tin ceiling and back bar. Also, read our Lexington Day Trip Diary on KCParent.com for more fun in Lexington!

tions open for the season. 816.246.5224 75 Years of Oz, Oh My! 10:00, Crown Center.

There’s no place like Crown Center to celebrate the 75th anniversary of The Wizard of Oz with this interactive display for families. Free. 816.274.8444.

Toddler Takeover 10:00, Kansas City North Community Center. Bring your little ones under 4 to run and play in the gym. $1. 816.784.6100 Toddle Time 10:00, Bonner Springs Community Center. Bring your kids to play on the large assortment of toys in the gym. $2. 913.422.7010 Power Hour 1:00, Little Monkey Bizness. Arrive between 1:00 and 3:00 on Monday and Wednesday and admission is just $5 plus tax!

913.631.7000 Teens @ the Library 7:30 MCPL (Blue Springs).

Not kids. Not adults. Visit the library at a time just for teens. Make crafts, watch movies, play games and more.

11 tuesday

Moms Group Deal 10:00, Amazing Play. Moms groups get one free Cloud Jump for each SkyMaze purchased. AmazingPlayFunCenter.com Coffee Playground 10:00, OP First Assembly of God. Free play in the gym for kids 5 and under.

Inflatables, scooters, balls and other toys!

OverlandParkMops.blogspot.com Creative Story Time 11:00, Ceramic Café. Hear a story, create a pottery piece and enjoy a simple snack. 913.383.0222 2-for-1 Tuesday 5:00, Crown Center Ice Terrace.

After 5:00, pay one full price admission and receive a second for free. 816.274.8444

12 wednesday

Pop ‘n Play 9:00, Johnson County Museum. A drop-in program with age-appropriate activities for children 9 months to 3 years old. 913.715.2550 Stories for Ones 9:30, Waldo Library. Bring your 1-year-old to a story time geared toward this age group. 816.701.3486

Easter Menagerie Thru March 31, Kia Bondurant Photography. Celebrate Easter with photos with baby ducks, chicks, lambs and bunnies.

KiaBondurant.com

Mommy and Me Bumper Bowling 9:30, Summit Lanes. Bumper bowling for moms and tots! $3/ea includes game, shoe rental and drink.

816.524.3322

Young Explorers: My Pets and Family 9:00, Lenexa Community Center. Young children will enjoy songs, games, stories, hands-on activities and art projects. $12. 913.477.7100

Open Gym 9:30, Flipzone (Lee’s Summit). The kids will enjoying running and playing at the open gym time. $6. 816.524.2636

Junie B Jones and a Little Monkey Business 10:00, Theatre for Young America (Union Station).

A musical adaptation of the wildly popular book

by Barbara Park. TYA.org

13 thursday

Tales for Tiny Tykes 9:30 & 10:30, Plaza Library.

Toddlers ages 18-36 months can listen to a 20-minute story time followed with a craft.

816.701.3481 Preschool Playtime 9:30, Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church. Join us for an open gym with various toys and equipment. Snack and drink provided. 913.579.6867 Indoor Playground 9:30-11:30, Sylvester Powell Comm Ctr. Children 6 and under can play on developmentally appropriate toys for just $2.

913.722.8200 Winston Churchill: The Artist 10:00, Hallmark Visitors Center. Enjoy a rare opportunity to view the art of Sir Winston Churchill. Learn about Churchill’s connection with Hallmark.

816.274.3613

14 friday Toddler Town 10:00, Roger T Sermon Community Center. Children ages 5 and under enjoy visiting our indoor playground in the gym. $1.

816.325.7370 Snack, Shop and Stroll on the Square 11:00, Historic Independence Square. Enjoy a progres-

DO YOU HAVE A STORY TO TELL? Young authors and illustrators in K - 3rd grade are to KCPT’s PBS Kids Writers Contest! Entries will

invited to submit their stories

be judged on creativity, story structure, and illustrations. Local winners in each grade will be submitted to the national PBS Kids Writers Contest. For more information and full contest guidelines, visit kcpt.org/write. Contest ends March 31, 2014.

kcparent.com march 2014

57

St. Patrick’s Day Parade

March 17, 11:00. The parade has become Kansas City’s largest single-day civic event, as well as one of the largest St. Patrick’s Day Parades in the nation. KCIrishParade.com sive food event as you stroll from site to site.

816.461.0065 Story Time 11:00, Reader’s World Lee’s Summit.

Every Friday enjoy story time with a story, crafts and a snack. Free. 816.246.7323 Friday Family Night 6:00, Cool Crest. Every Friday for only $21.99, enjoy unlimited soft play (four guests), 100 arcade tokens, large pizza and four drinks. 816.358.0088 Friday Night Family Fun 6:30, Plaza Library. Join us every Friday night for fun activities the whole family can enjoy! 816.701.3481 Free Discovery Concert 7:00, Folly Theater.

This Discovery Concert is free to the public.

Enjoy the music of cellist Narek Hakhnazaryan.

816.415.5025 Vanya & Sonia & Masha & Spike 8:00, Spencer Theatre. The KC Rep presents this irresistible family comedy. Appropriate for ages 11 and up.

KCRep.org

15 saturday

Family Fun Day 10:00, Johnson County Museum.

Bring the family to tour Kidscape and make a

or al W n o i ess Pro f e e r F

ksho

craft. Free. JoCoMuseum.org March into Fun 10:00, Kansas City Zoo. Take part in zoo-rifiic activities and meet some special guests. Have your picture taken with a super hero.

KansasCityZoo.org Snake Saturday 10:00, North Kansas City. The largest Irish festival in the area, with a parade, children’s area, food vendors and more. Parade at 11:00. 816.548.3113 Bird Banding 10:00, Burroughs Audubon Nature Center and Bird Sanctuary. See our resident winter songbirds up close and personal.

816.795.8177 Scavenger Saturdays 10:00, Kemper Museum of Art. Follow the clues on this “ART-astic” adventure!

816.753.5784 Historical Tea and Tour 10:30, Anna Marie’s Teas.

Gather friends and loved ones for a historical tea that says spring is almost here! $20.50.

AnnaTeaShop.com Springtime Kite Craft 11:00, Lakeshore Learning. A spectacular springtime kite that kids create

p

Discover Music Together

®

A business opportunity for those who love music And children Saturday, March 29, 2–5 PM Unity Temple on the Plaza, Kansas City MO over the past two decades, millions of parents, children, and teachers have come to love music together’s innovative, awardwinning early childhood music curriculum. come find out how our educational and business support has helped thousands of parents, music lovers, and educators find a path to meaningful work as music together business owners and teachers. learn how you can open up the world of music to young children in Kansas city.

themselves. Free. 913.432.3998 Wizard of Oz Characters Noon, Crown Center Shops. Dorothy, Scarecrow, the Tin Man and the Cowardly Lion appear at Crown Center. Free.

816.274.8444 Emerald Isle Parade Noon, Downtown Lee’s Summit. Celebrate St Patrick’s Day by enjoying this annual parade, featuring floats, walking groups, Irish dancers, musicians and more.

DowntownLS.org

Special Beginnings EARLY LEARNING CENTER Quality Christian early care and education for over 20 years!

• PT or FT schedule • M-F, 6 am to 6 pm • NAC Accredited • Infants to 12 years • Developmental Curriculum starting at Infants

NEW! SCHOOL AGE SPACE OPENED IN JANUARY IN LENEXA!

Lenexa Infants-School Age 10216 Pflumm Rd. 913.894.0131 Olathe Infants-Pre-K 14169 Murlen Rd 913.393.2223 Overland Park Infants-Pre-K 8205 W 108th Terr 913.378.1075

www.musictogether.com/DiscoverMT • (800) 728-2692

58

kcparent.com march 2014

Register today & receive $100 credit upon enrollment!

Bingham-Waggoner Fashion Show Noon, Bingham-Waggoner Estate. Enjoy a fun-filled afternoon, including lunch served with wine and a preview of spring fashions. $25. 816.461.3491 Bluebird Box Workshop 1:30, Martha Lafite Thompson Nature Sanctuary. Make an easy-toassemble bluebird nesting box. $15-$21. Pre-reg.

816.781.8598 The Jungle Book 2:00, Blue Springs City Theatre.

An action-packed adaptation of the classic adventure story. BlueSpringsCityTheatre.com

Spring for

great into U.S. Toy

outdoor games &

fun!

St Patrick’s Warm-Up Parade 2:00, Brookside Shopping District. Bring the family and friends to this annual community “feel good” parade!

BrooksideKC.org Lexington St Patrick’s Day Parade 2:00, Historic Lexington. A fun-filled community parade celebrating all things Irish. LexingtonMO.com

16 sunday

Irishpalooza 11:00, Martin City Business District.

Enjoy a St Patrick’s Day festival and parade in Martin City! Irishpalooza.com 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 St Patrick’s Day Parade 1:00, Downtown Shawnee. The entire family will have fun cheering on all the great parade entries and at the variety of activities.

20% OFF

ONE SINGLE ITEM*

*For in-store use at U.S. Toy Stores only with free Preferred Customer Card. Cannot be combined with other offer or discount. Can't be used on sale items. Can't be used with a Teacher Rewards 2008 W. 103rd Terr.

Card. Reduction taken at register. Limit one coupon per customer per visit. Excludes Lego, Leawood, KS 66206 Celebrating Years Holiday Playmobil,60 Thomas the Trainof & Stuffies product.Memories Not valid for purchase of gift cards.

913-642-8247 Other restrictions may apply. EXPIRES 3/31/14.

14DM06

The A-Lone Ranger 3:30, Martin City Melodrama.

A parody about Robin Hood of the Wild West.

Performed as an old time radio show. $9.99.

Reservations req’d. 913.642.7576

17 monday: st. patrick’s day For tons more of St. Pat’s events and ideas, visit KCParent.com.

Spring Arts Program 10:00, Johnson County Museum. Enjoy fun art projects over spring break.

Dress for mess! $3. Ages 4-8.

JoCoMuseum.org 75 Years of Oz, Oh My! 10:00, Crown Center.

There’s no place like Crown Center to celebrate the 75th anniversary of The Wizard of Oz with this interactive display for families. Free. 816.274.8444.

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

Spring Break ARTS Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday Different themes daily 10:00—Noon

Toddle Time 10:00, Bonner Springs Community Center. Bring your kids to play on the large assortment of toys in the gym. $2. 913.422.7010 kcparent.com march 2014

59

take note: march ’14 March 1: Peanut Butter Lovers Day Treat the family to a delicious meal at Tomfooleries (Tomfooleries.com), where the menu is vast and features a great variety, including the peanut butter bacon burger, a burger topped with crisp bacon and gooey peanut butter, and their signature peanut butter fried chicken salad!

March 6: National Frozen Food Day Fill your freezer with delicious and nutritious freezer meals. At Dream Dinners (DreamDinners.com), customers make and prepare simple freezer meals to take home and enjoy later.

March 7: Birthday of Monopoly The game was invented

Irish American Heritage Month: Celebrate Kansas City’s rich Irish American heritage at the Irish Museum and Cultural Center (located on the lower level in Union Station, IrishCenterKC.org).

This museum tells the story of Irish immigration to Kansas City with artifacts, photos and genealogical sources.

on this date in 1933, so dust off the old classic and call a family game night. Afraid of a Monopoly all-nighter? Set a timer and the person with the most dough at the end of an hour (or two) is the winner.

March 10: The U.S. government issues paper money for the first time on this date in 1862. Visit the Money

March 17: St. Patrick’s Day Celebrate at a local parade!

You’ll find a complete guide to local St. Patrick’s Day parades on KCParent.com.

Belgian waffles in Kansas City at First Watch (FirstWatch.com).

With more than 10 local restaurants, First Watch is one of the most popular breakfast eateries in Kansas City!

kcparent.com march 2014

Treat the kids to an outing at Kookiedoodle Crafts (KookiedoodleCrafts.com) in Downtown Overland Park. It’s a one-of-a-kind arts and crafts shop where children purchase kits and make masterpieces all within the store walls—no mess at home, only a take-home masterpiece. Kids will enjoy painting, felt pillow projects, wooden crafts and more.

Museum (816.881.2683). Interactive exhibits explore banking, basic economics and the financial policies that affect your family. Peek into one of the nation’s largest cash vaults and take home a FREE souvenir bag of shredded cash.

March 25: National Waffle Day Enjoy some of the best

60

National Craft Month:

March 30: Take a Walk in the Park Day Kansas City is home to hundreds of beautiful parks and green spaces. Visit your favorite nearby park or discover a new one when you search for “Best Parks” on KCParent.com.

Thursday Fun Deal

Every Thursday, 10:00, Amazing Play. Bring as many kids as you can get in your car, pay full price for the first, half price for the rest on select attractions. AmazingPlayFunCenter.com St Patrick’s Day Parade 11:00. The parade has become Kansas City’s largest single-day civic event, as well as one of the largest St Patrick’s Day Parades in the nation. KCIrishParade.com St Patrick’s Day Parade 1:00, South Park (Lawrence). A fun, old-fashioned St Patrick’s Day parade. LawrenceStPatricksDayParade.com

18 tuesday

Family Art Session Various times, Kaleidoscope.

Kids can create their own masterpieces at Kaleidoscope. Free. 816.274.8300 Zoological District Free Day 9:30, Kansas City Zoo. Clay and Jackson County residents, just show your ID or utility bill to receive your complimentary admission. KansasCityZoo.org Winston Churchill: The Artist 10:00, Hallmark Visitors Center. Enjoy a rare opportunity to view the art of Sir Winston Churchill. Learn about Churchill’s connection with Hallmark.

816.274.3613 Junie B Jones and a Little Monkey Business 10:00, Theatre for Young America (Union Station).

A musical adaptation of the wildly popular book

by Barbara Park. TYA.org Indoor Play 10:00, Rainbow Play Systems. Bring the kids to run, jump and play on the swing sets and equipment. $4/child. 913.780.6500 Creative Story Time 11:00, Ceramic Café. Hear a story, create a pottery piece and enjoy a simple snack. 913.383.0222 Tots on Tuesday 11:00, Kemper Museum. Bring in your preschooler for a fun and fashionable gettogether every third Tuesday. 816.753.5784

19 wednesday Jo Ho Storyteller 10:00, Johnson County Museum. Come listen to “green” stories about being happy and healthy and enriching others. Free.

913.715.2552 Geo Kids 10:00, Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens. Kids will have fun treasure hunting at the arboretum. $5-$6. 913.685.3604 Funky Mama Concert 11:00, Lenexa Community Center. Bring the kids to hear Funky Mama perform at Gym and Me at the Lenexa Community Center! FunkyMamaMusic.com Preschoolers: Happy Hoppers 1:00, Martha Lafite Thompson Nature Sanctuary. We’ll learn about webbed-footed friends, take a hike and make a craft! $3-$5. Pre-reg. 816.781.8598 What’s for Dinner? 3:00, Burr Oak Woods Nature Center. Watch as the captive amphibians, fish and

turtles enjoy their feast. 816.228.3766 Vanya & Sonia & Masha & Spike 7:00, Spencer Theatre. The KC Rep presents this irresistible family comedy. Appropriate for ages 11 and up. KCRep.org

20 thursday

Story Time for Babies 9:15 & 10:00, MCPL (Liberty). Build a foundation for early literacy through play and one-on-one interaction with a parent or a caregiver. Free. 816.781.9240 Preschool Playtime 9:30, Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church. Join us for an open gym with various toys and equipment. Snack and drink provided. 913.579.6867 Writers Contest Thru March 31, KCPT Kids.

Authors and illustrators in grades K thru 3 are encouraged to submit stories. www.KCPT.org/write Nature Story Time 10:00 & 11:00, George Owens Nature Park. Listen to nature stories and complete a craft or venture out on a short nature walk. 816.325.7115 Thursday Fun Deal 10:00, Amazing Play. Bring as many kids as you can get in your car, pay full price for the first, half price for the rest on select attractions. AmazingPlayFunCenter.com Free Play Cedar Ridge Christian Church. Daily free play for young children while parents enjoy a coffee drink. 913.393.3000 Spring Break Living History 10:00, Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop. Enjoy spring living history activities, such as cook stove and blacksmith demonstrations. $4-$6. OlatheKS.org Wizard of Oz Party 1:00, Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens. Visit with Dorothy, the Scarecrow, Lion and Tin Man and watch The Wizard of Oz. $5-$8. 913.685.3604 Manifest Destiny 2:00, Nat’l Frontier Trails Museum. A 30-minute guided tour that explores the concept of manifest destiny. $3-$6. 816.325.7575

21 friday God’s Not Dead Movie opens in theaters today.

For details and show times, visit GodsNotDead.com.

Easter Menagerie Thru March 31, Kia Bondurant Photography. Celebrate Easter with photos with baby ducks, chicks, lambs and bunnies.

KiaBondurant.com Indoor Play 10:00, Rainbow Play Systems. Bring the kids to run, jump and play on the swing sets and equipment. $4/child. 913.780.6500

Spring Arts Program 10:00, Johnson County Museum. Enjoy fun art projects over spring break. Dress for mess! $3. Ages 4-8. JoCoMuseum.org Paint Me a Story 10:30, Paint, Glaze and Fire.

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

913.661.2529 Story Time 10:30 & 11:30, Shawnee Books & Toys.

Bring in the kids to participate in our weekly story time, craft and a snack. 913.962.1428 Friday Playgroup 10:30, Turner Community Library. Little ones have fun listening to stories and joining in on crafts and songs. 913.596.1404 Hard Hat Tour 2:00, Kansas City Museum. Take a hard hat tour of Corinthian Hall and see how it looks mid-renovation. KansasCityMuseum.org Englewood Art Walk 5:30, Englewood Shopping District. See artists in action, demonstrations and enjoy live music and refreshments. 816.252.3372 Drawn to Murder 6:30, Golden Ox. Date night!

Interactive murder-mystery dinner theater presented by the Mystery Train. $59-$69.

816.813.9654

22 saturday

Mother Nature Reads 10:00, Lakeside Nature Center. Come to hear a story, learn cool facts about animals and make a craft. 816.513.8960 Colors-of-the-Rainbow Mirror 11:00, Lakeshore Learning. No matter the weather outside, kids will enjoy creating this radiant rainbow mirror.

Free. 913.432.3998 Story Time 11:00, Barnes and Noble (Oak Park).

Bring the kids for a to hear a fun story every Saturday. 913.492.8187 Passport to Adventure Kick-Off Noon, Bass Pro Shop (Independence). Visit booths and discover kcparent.com march 2014

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Plaza Bunnies & Wonderland Animals

Thru April 21, Country Club Plaza. The popular, larger-than-life bunnies make their 2014 debut. CountryClubPlaza.com the treasures of local history and get your passport. 913.764.7759 Meet Me at the Museum 1:00, Kemper Museum.

Join a Kemper Museum docent for a lively discussion and tour of the museum’s current exhibitions. Free. 816.753.5784 Teen Cinema 2:00, MCPL (Blue Springs South).

Enjoy a cool afternoon watching the movie Alice in Wonderland, starring Johnny Depp. Free 816.229.3571 Live Animal Feeding 3:00, Martha Lafite Thompson Nature Sanctuary. Come watch our snakes, turtles and other animals do what comes naturally: eating! Free. 816.781.8598

23 sunday

Visit Sea Life 10:00, Sea Life Aquarium (Crown Center). Come nose to nose with sharks and prepare for close views of everything from starfish and seahorses to rays. VisitSeaLife.com art + family = FUN 1:00, Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Join us every Saturday and Sunday for free activities for all ages! 816.751.

24 monday

Moms FREE Monday 9:30, Paradise Park. Moms are free at the Children’s EduTainment Center with a paid child’s admission. 816.246.5224 Story Time for Toddlers 9:30, 10:30 & 11:30 MCPL (Liberty). Enjoy a fun and interactive environment that will encourage the next steps into early literacy. Free. 816.781.9240 Winston Churchill: The Artist 10:00, Hallmark Visitors Center. Enjoy a rare opportunity to view the art of Sir Winston Churchill. Learn about Churchill’s connection with Hallmark. 816.274.3613

Toddler Time 10:00, Bonner Springs Community Center. Bring your toddler in to jump and have some fun! 913.422.7010

Mt Gilead Monday 10:00, Historic Mt Gilead School. A program for homeschoolers with history-related themes, crafts and games.

816.736.8500

Power Hour 1:00, Little Monkey Bizness. Arrive between 1:00 and 3:00 on Monday and Wednesday and admission is just $5 plus tax!

913.631.7000

75 Years of Oz, Oh My! 10:00, Crown Center.

There’s no place like Crown Center to celebrate the 75th anniversary of The Wizard of Oz with this interactive display for families. Free. 816.274.8444.

25 tuesday

Toddle Time Tue & Wed, 9:00-11:00, Matt Ross Community Center. Fun and enriching open playtime for ages 5 and under. $1-$2/child.

913.895.6390

best kite flying parks in kansas city Spring is an excellent time for kite flying in Kansas City! Choose your favorite park with wide open spaces, watch for power lines and go fly kites! This is your Kansas City guide to great kite flying parks!

Great Kite Flying Parks in Missouri:

Smith’s Fork Park at Smithville Lake: 1601 DD Hwy., Smithville

Arborwalk Park: 1301 SW Arbor Park Dr., Lee’s Summit

Swope Park: Meyer Blvd. & Swope Pkwy., Kansas City

Belton Community Center Park: 16400 S. Mullen Rd., Belton Brookside Park: 58th St., between Grand & Oak, KCMO

Great Kite Flying Parks in Kansas:

Canterbury Park: 501 SE Blackwell Rd., Lee’s Summit

Black Bob Park: 14500 W. 151st St., Olathe

Fleming Park: 228067 Woods Chapel Rd., Blue Springs

Black Hoof Park at Lake Lenexa: 9054 Monticello Rd., Lenexa

Legacy Park: 1201-1501 NE Legacy Park Dr., Lee’s Summit

Frontier Park: 15501 W. Indian Creek Pkwy., Olathe

Longview Lake Park Shelter #11: 470 Hwy. & Raytown Rd.,

Garrett Park: 47th St. & Monticello Rd., Shawnee

Kansas City

Kill Creek Park: 33460 W. 95th St., De Soto

Loose Park: 51st Ter. & Wornall, Kansas City

Leawood Park: 10601 Lee Blvd., Leawood

Lowenstein Park: 1901 NW Lowenstein Dr., Lee’s Summit

Heritage Park Shelter #1: 160th & Pflumm, Olathe

Nelson-Atkins Museum Lawn: 4525 Oak, Kansas City

Mill Creek Park: 4731 Wilder Road, Shawnee

Ruth Stockdale Park: George Raines Rd. & Hwy. 210, Liberty

Shawnee Mission Park: 79th St. & Renner Rd., Shawnee, KS.

Plan Ahead! Flights of Fancy, Saturday, April 19, 10:00-5:00, at Metropolitan Community College (MCCFlightsOfFancy.org).

Enjoy one of the largest kite festivals in the Midwest featuring the Kansas City Kite Club. Watch mega kites, stunt kites, power kites, and enjoy a candy drop for the kids. Kids can make their own kites while enjoying face painting and balloon artists. Pack your picnic, bring your own kites and enjoy a day on the lawn at Longview Community College flying kites.

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Preschool Indoor Playground 9:30, Irene B French Community Center (Merriam). Kids will enjoy inflatable bouncers, Little Tykes riding toys and MORE! $2. 913.322.5550 Junie B Jones and a Little Monkey Business 10:00, Theatre for Young America (Union Station).

A musical adaptation of the wildly popular book

by Barbara Park. TYA.org Coffee Playground 10:00, OP First Assembly of God. Free play in the gym for kids 5 and under.

Inflatables, scooters, balls and other toys!

OverlandParkMops.blogspot.com Moms Group Deal 10:00, Amazing Play. Moms groups get one free Cloud Jump for each SkyMaze purchased. AmazingPlayFunCenter.com Creative Story Time 11:00, Ceramic Café. Hear a story, create a pottery piece and enjoy a simple snack. 913.383.0222 Open Gym Noon, 360 Gymnastics. Bring your kids for an hour to our recreational gymnastics facility for fun play! 913.707.3756

26 wednesday

Pop ‘n Play 9:00, Johnson County Museum. A drop-in program with age-appropriate activities for children 9 months to 3 years old. 913.715.2550 Stories for Ones 9:30, Waldo Library. Bring your 1-year-old to a story time geared toward this age group. 816.701.3486

piano

lessons

Learn to play piano and have FUN doing it!

Ages 4+ • All Skill Levels • Affordable Flexible • Experienced Teacher (9 yrs)

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

Daytime lessons available for homeschoolers!

Call Spring Terburgh at 913-636-4472

LESSONS CONVENIENTLY LOCATED RIGHT OFF I-35 AND 119th ST IN OLATHE

Mommy and Me Bumper Bowling 9:30, Summit Lanes. Bumper bowling for moms and tots! $3/ea includes game, shoe rental and drink.

816.524.3322 Animal Tales 10:30, Ernie Miller Nature Center.

Visit the nature center for stories, songs and surprises. Meet a special animal friend every time. $2. 913.764.7759 What’s for Dinner? 3:00, Burr Oak Woods Nature Center. Watch as the captive amphibians, fish and turtles enjoy their feast. 816.228.3766

27 thursday

Children’s Letters to God 9:30 & 7:00, The Culture House Red Studio Theatre. A new musical based on the internationally best-selling book.

CultureHouse.com Tales for Tiny Tykes 9:30 & 10:30, Plaza Library.

Toddlers ages 18-36 months can listen to a 20-minute story time followed with a craft.

816.701.3481 Preschool Playtime 9:30, Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church. Join us for an open gym with various toys and equipment. Snack and drink provided. 913.579.6867 Indoor Playground 9:30-11:30, Sylvester Powell Comm Ctr. Children 6 and under can play on developmentally appropriate toys for just $2.

913.722.8200 kcparent.com march 2014

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75 Years of Oz, Oh My! 10:00, Crown Center.

There’s no place like Crown Center to celebrate the 75th anniversary of The Wizard of Oz with this interactive display for families. Free. 816.274.8444.

28 friday Plaza Bunnies & Wonderland Animals Thru April 21, Country Club Plaza. The popular, largerthan-life bunnies make their 2014 debut.

CountryClubPlaza.com Home, Flower, Lawn & Garden Show Thru Sunday, Bartle Hall. The show showcases the latest ideas to get a jump on spring projects. $9-$10.

816.942.8800 March with the Mayor Noon, City Hall (Blue Springs). Join Mayor Carson Ross for a brisk 30-minute walk through downtown Blue Springs. BlueSpringsGov.com Friday Family Night 6:00, Cool Crest. Every Friday for only $21.99, enjoy unlimited soft play (four guests), 100 arcade tokens, large pizza and four drinks. 816.358.0088 After Dark 7:00 & 9:00, Cosmic Jump. Jump after dark! Enjoy a DJ and glow-tastic prizes. 11 and up at 7:00 and 14 and up at 9:00. $16. 913.397.7700

29 saturday Johnson County Healthy Yards Expo 9:00, Shawnee Civic Centre. A lawn and garden event to help you make greener choices in the yard and

CHILDREN’S CONFERENCE

home. .Johnson.KSU.edu

30 sunday

Mother Nature Reads 10:00, Lakeside Nature Center. Come to hear a story, learn cool facts about animals and make a craft. 816.513.8960

Passport to India: Family Cultural Festival 12:30, Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Join us for a fun afternoon filled with the dance, fashions, art and culture of India! Nelson-Atkins.org

Funny Fish Puppet 11:00, Lakeshore Learning.

A friendly fish that children make themselves... and decorate with paint, sparkles and more. Free.

913.432.3998

Family Skate 1:00, River Roll (Riverside). Fun for the entire family! Get out and skate. $4/admission, $2/skate rental. RiverRoll.com

Rockin’ & Readin’ Nature Tales 11:00, Burr Oak Woods Nature Center. Join us for a story hour as we lead you on fantastic nature adventures!

816.228.3766

Vanya & Sonia & Masha & Spike 2:00, Spencer Theatre. The KC Rep presents this irresistible family comedy. Appropriate for ages 11 and up.

KCRep.org

Discover Music Together® 2:00, Unity Temple (Plaza). Free workshop to learn more about becoming Music Together business owners and teachers. MusicTogether.com/DiscoverMT

The A-Lone Ranger 3:30, Martin City Melodrama.

A parody about Robin Hood of the Wild West.

Performed as an old time radio show. $9.99.

Reservations req’d. 913.642.7576

Children’s Letters to God 2:00 & 7:00, The Culture House Red Studio Theatre. A new musical based on the internationally best-selling book.

CultureHouse.com Downton Abbey Informal Tea Party and Fashion Show 2:00, Vaile Mansion. Wear your best British hat as your enter the elegant Vaile Mansion. $30. Pre-reg. 816. 478.3334 Candlelight Nature Hike 8:30, Martha Lafite Thompson Nature Sanctuary. Turn off your lights and come out to the nature sanctuary for a candlelight night hike. Free. 816.781.8598

VENDORS

Keynote address by Steve Demme Thursday, April 3rd, 7:00 pm • Emmanuel Baptist Church 10100 Metcalf Ave., OP, KS

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31 monday Toddler Takeover 10:00, Kansas City North Community Center. Bring your little ones under 4 to run and play in the gym. $1. 816.784.6100 Toddle Time 10:00, Bonner Springs Community Center. Bring your kids to play on the large assortment of toys in the gym. $2. 913.422.7010 Power Hour 1:00, Little Monkey Bizness. Arrive between 1:00 and 3:00 on Monday and Wednesday and admission is just $5 plus tax!

913.631.7000

WORKSHOPS

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His flu or stomach ache doesn’t know your pediatrician’s office hours. And the need for a pediatric specialist can come at any time. Luckily, the valued care of Children’s Mercy is now available for extended hours in South Overland Park.

High Fever

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Visit our Urgent Care Center at the new Children’s Mercy Blue Valley location and get him a good night’s sleep.

Open 7 days a week, noon – 10 p.m.

6750 West 135th St. (just east of Metcalf) (913) 717-4700 Childrensmercy.org/BlueValley

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