KC Parent magazine March 2023

MARCH

Welcome, March! As I’ve written in the past, this is one of my favorite months for several reasons. For me, it signals that the end of winter is in sight and days are getting longer. March also brings my natal day and spring break, too. As we all know, a few years back, March was a bummer. The March that shall not be named started off with great promise—even a senior spring break trip for my older. Our family’s rule of thumb was to not travel over spring break because of travel price hikes for that busy season. But for our daughter’s senior year, we decided to make an exception. My older and I set off for her class trip with about 20 of her good friends and their parents, and it’s the strangest trip I’ve been on to date. This March, my younger and I will venture out on her senior trip— and there’s a teeny tiny part of me that’s fearful of a repeat. So if things fall apart this year, I’m sorry! If this goes south, I promise I’ll never travel again over spring break. Here’s hoping you have a wonderful spring break, whether near or far! If you’re taking a staycation, check out pg. 50 for great ideas in KC to keep you busy all break long!

Our March issue is one of my faves, as well, because it’s our big Summer Camp Guide issue. When the girls were younger, I loved poring over the pages of the guide with them to plan a fun summer. From specialty camps to day camps, sports camps, overnight camps and so much more, you’ll find TONS of great options starting on pg. 24. Be sure to also check out our digital guide at KCParent.com. It has photos, videos and much more to give you more info about camp options.

Happy March, KC!

Margaret Sarver, Editor

Publisher Michael Gimotty

Michael@KCParent.com

Associate Publisher Darrell Dean

Darrell@KCParent.com

Editor Margaret Sarver

Margaret@KCParent.com

Art Director Kim Tappan

Tappan Design

Kim@KCParent.com

Advertising Sales

Darrell Dean

Darrell@KCParent.com

Digital Media Manager Kristina Light Kristina@KCParent.com

Copy Editor Susan Crainshaw

Susan@KCParent.com

Intern Tori Sarver

Distribution

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Local Contributing Writers

Kim Antisdel (Liberty), Bill Bartlett (Belton), Janelle Cumro-Sultzer (Manhattan), Judy Goppert (Lee’s Summit), Lauren Greenlee (Olathe), Kristina Light (Kansas City), Regan Lyons (St. Joseph), Sarah Lyons (Olathe), Emily Morrison (Independence), Jessica Samuel (Kansas City), Tori Sarver (Lenexa)

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

Postmaster, please send changes to KC Parent, 11936 W. 119th #335, Overland Park, KS 66213

rainbow charm

Enjoy a little springtime hope in your home with this cute and easy rainbow of your own!

Step one: Cut out large cloud on the white paper.

Step two: Link together the pipe cleaners by colors, leaving one pipe cleaner open at the end of each link.

Step three: Set the pipe cleaners according to the color order in which you want them to be displayed.

Step four: Gently poke one end of the open pipe cleaner link through the bottom of the cloud, about one inch up. Link together the pipe cleaner so it is connected to the cloud.

Step five: We put the pipe cleaner on one side, then the other side, then the middle and then filled in the rest, just guessing about where they should go.

Step six: Once all pipe cleaners are connected to the cloud, hang and enjoy!

Janelle Cumro-Sultzer lives in Manhattan, Kansas, with her husband, soon to be three children and two dogs. Janelle is the owner of Flint Hills Mediation LLC and loves to focus on learning through play and getting messy with crafts.

Materials Needed:

• Assorted pipe cleaners (we used five of each color)

• White paper

• Scissors

• Tape

Our commitment to do more for kids is at the heart of everything we do, down to each strand of DNA sequenced for genetic research. Together, we can help kids overcome whatever’s standing in their way. Learn more at childrensmercy.org/imagine.

spring health checkup

march has arrived, and spring will be here soon! Instead of writing on a single topic, in this month’s column, I want to highlight several issues important for women. Like seeds scattered before the March winds, a variety of healthy ideas can take root and grow into wholesome habits for all of us. So let’s take a look at blood donation, the benefits of hydration and coping with seasonal allergies.

When I was in high school there was an annual blood donation that students were encouraged to sign up for. Unfortunately, during my first two years in high school I did not meet all the requirements to donate, but when I finally did in my junior year, I was excited to be giving back. My parents have always stressed to my younger sister and me the importance of blood donation, and I can recall, during my growing up, how they donated on a regular basis. Blood donation can be intimidating at first, but it’s also a rewarding experience that helps to directly assist those in need of surgery or transfusions. If you do regularly donate,

encourage a friend or family member to go with you and participate. My mom and I make a point to donate when I am home from school and often will make it an event by getting lunch together afterward. Signing up to donate can be as easy as downloading the Red Cross app and searching for blood drives near you!

When you donate blood, adequate hydration before and after keeps you feeling your best. This leads me to the next topic: the importance of hydration. According to Harvard Health, drinking water has several benefits that range from regulation of body temperature to improving a person’s mood. These benefits, along with many others, can be achieved in a simple and easy way, just by drinking water! It is recommended that an adult drink around 15 cups or 3.7 liters of water per day. To achieve this goal, I recommend getting a large water bottle to keep with you throughout the day. I personally use a 32-ounce water bottle that I only need to fill a few times to stay on track with my daily 15-cup goal. If the taste of water is just straight-up boring to you,

try adding some lemon juice or berries to enhance the flavor.

Lastly, I want to touch on seasonal allergies, something I and so many others struggle with every year. Spring may excite us with its warmth and sunshine, but the budding and blooming plants mean seasonal allergies will be back. Taking time to get ahead of the constant runny nose and itchy eyes can help lessen the effects of allergies this season. It is helpful to know exactly what your body reacts to, and seeing an allergist can help you identify the culprits. Another way to get ahead is to begin allergy medications now, rather than waiting for those clockwork-like symptoms to present themselves.

I hope everyone has a happy and healthy March. Make your health a priority this month to feel your best!

Tori Sarver is an intern for KC Parent. She is studying strategic communications with a business minor at CU Boulder.

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

Nothing’s like the smell of a brand new box of crayons! This month, celebrate National Crayon Day on March 31 with a bit of local fun:

CRAYON LETTERS KC

This small business started by a local mom specializes in custom crayons shaped into letters to spell your child’s name or a special message, as well as numbers and shapes. These are great for gifts, Easter basket goodies and party favors. Order online at CrayonLettersKC.com

KALEIDOSCOPE

Delighting generations of Kansas City kids, Kaleidoscope is a free interactive art center created by Hallmark. Imaginations know no limits as children create their own custom jigsaw puzzles, special creations that glow under black light and custom masterpieces using crayons, Hallmark products and other fun art materials. Reservations available at HallmarkKaleidoscope.com

CRAFTY CRAYON SHOES

Spend an afternoon creating a darling pair of personalized shoes that look like a Crayola crayon! For detailed instructions along with photos, head to KCParent.com and search “DIY Crayon Shoes.”

CRAYOLA KANSAS CITY

One the most creative shops in Crown Center, the Crayola Kansas City Store features Crayola products for all ages. You’ll find the newest art materials as well as all your classic favorites. Kids love the interactive displays and the colorful fun in this shop. CrownCenter.com/listings/crayola-kansas-city

Crayola Kansas City Store in Crown Center

A TRADITIONAL BREAKFAST WITH A TWIST

The same bowl of breakfast cereal can get boring after eating it day in and day out. You may find yourself looking for something new and exciting to start your whole family’s morning off on the right foot.

Kids can be picky when it comes to breakfast foods, but this recipe for Sausage French Toast Roll-Ups is a quick and easy way to fill their bellies with a taste of several flavors they may already love. And it’s a perfect way to fill your morning with joy, no matter whether the hours ahead are filled with work, school or play.

A sizzling sausage link wrapped with French toast, the dish combines a favorite breakfast protein and traditional deliciousness in one little roll. Drizzled with warm maple syrup at the end, these breakfast bites are so good even adults can’t help but indulge.

This is a quick dish too, using few kitchen utensils, which makes for more time in the morning to enjoy the little things that matter most, like moments with family before rushing out the door. This recipe can also be made when your family is craving breakfast for dinner.

Find more breakfast recipes at Culinary.net.

SAUSAGE FRENCH TOAST ROLL-UPS

Servings: 12

12 sausage links

2 eggs

2/3 c. milk

3 t. almond extract

1/2 t. ground cinnamon

6 bread slices, crust removed, cut in half

3 T. butter

Syrup

In skillet, cook sausage links according to package directions. Set aside.

In medium bowl, whisk eggs, milk, almond extract and cinnamon.

Dip bread slice in egg mixture. Wrap bread slice around cooked sausage link, pressing seam to keep from unrolling. Repeat with remaining bread slices and sausage links.

In large skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter. Place roll-ups in skillet, seam-side down, and cook until all sides are browned, approximately 10 minutes.

I just adopted a seven-week-old kitten and would love some tips/resources on introducing her to our eight-year-old cat. Our older kitty has been an “only child” for about a year and a half since her big sister passed.

- Kristin Kush

I recommend slow introductions and introducing your cats by smell first. Switch the blankets that they sleep on or play on with each other’s so they get used to their scents prior to meeting. Let them see each other and reward calm behavior with plenty of treats. If they are nervous or hissy, take the introduction a little slower. Wait and observe. They will let you know how comfortable they are with moving forward or if they need more time. If they are not meeting well and are nervous, put them on a meeting routine so they can take breaks from their meetings, then start again. For more detailed information, check out the many resources online about how to introduce kittens to an older cat.

- Ashley Flores, CPDT-KA

How can I help my mini poodle with anxiety attacks when we leave? I hate seeing her whine and spin when she senses we are leaving.

- Kathie Robertson

I recommend working on desensitization and counter-conditioning training. Start by leaving her for a short amount of time and reward her for good behavior. Slowly increase the length of time she is alone. Give her an extra special

treat that she doesn’t get for anything else to make it more alluring for her. The higher value the treat, the more she will want to work for it. Next step is exercise. Just like people with anxiety, exercise helps dogs tremendously. “A tired dog is a good dog” is a quote I have heard for years and absolutely rings true. Combining exercise and mental stimulation (brain games and puzzle feeders) will help your pet’s anxiety decrease. I also recommend acting like it’s no big deal when you leave or come home. I know a lot of people get very excited to come home, see their pet, and love on them like they haven’t seen them in a week. Make goodbyes and hellos a non-event. When you come home, ignore the overly excited behavior until your dog calms down. Once she is calm, give all the attention and love you want. If your dog is suffering from severe anxiety, I recommend getting in touch with your veterinarian to discuss antianxiety medications while working on a training plan to set your dog up for the best success.

- Ashley Flores, CPDT-KA

I adopted a three-year old cat, Jonah, from Great Plains SPCA in January a year ago. He and I live alone in my house. He is a wonderful pet and sits on my lap at every opportunity. The problem is, he is so shy of anyone who comes to the house. My teenage grandson loves cats and would so like to make friends with Jonah, but Jonah hides under the bed whenever my grandson, or anyone else, comes to the house. I would love for him to come out of hiding and get to know other members of my family and friends

when they visit. Do you have any suggestions for making Jonah less shy? -

Elaine Rhodes

I recommend giving your feline friend some special treats a few minutes before your grandson comes over to associate his visits with positive experiences. Having your grandson or visitors come over more frequently to create a routine of visits can also set expectations for Jonah. Ask your visitors to be quiet, ignore Jonah, and not stare at him, as staring can be threatening. I do not recommend forcing your cat out of his hiding place or to be pet as that can cause more problems. Allow your grandson to sit on the floor in the room where he is hiding and have him give Jonah high value treats. It will take time, but making the interactions positive and frequent will help Jonah build some confidence.

- Ashley Flores, CPDT-KA

Hi, I’m Anna Marie! I love snuggles, giving kisses, and belly rubs. Along with our cuddle sessions, I’m also ready to play anytime you want! It’s no problem if you have another dog, because I am very respectful of other dogs’ space. I already know lots of tricks including sit and shake! I’m also fully potty-trained! If you would like to meet Anna Marie, please reach out to adoptions@greatplainsspca.org for more information!

Email askashley@greatplainsspca.org for a chance to have your pet question answered in KC Parent magazine. Animal expert, Ashley Flores, CPDT-KA, is the Senior Director of Animal Behavior and Training at Great Plains SPCA. Ashley has more than 16 years of experience in animal training and behavior.

Mixbook

This isn’t a book to read, but a book you can create!

For my brother’s 50th birthday, I made a book that included memories, stories and life lessons from friends and family. My goal was to receive 50 entries and photos to include in the book. After gathering everything, I searched for a platform on which to create the book. I came across Mixbook, and it was very easy to use and made compiling the book a breeze. I was able to use fun fonts, graphics, backgrounds and more and ended up with a great memory book to celebrate a life well lived!

Surrender: 40 Songs, One Story

Knowing my love of U2, a friend gifted me Bono’s memoir, Surrender: 40 Songs, One Story. Because they are my favorite band, I was pretty sure I was going to enjoy the book. I was right. Each chapter is titled after a U2 song, so before reading each chapter I listened to the song. (Spoiler alert, I’m not the only one with this idea, as there is a Spotify playlist made up of the 40 songs.) I loved reading about the history of the band from the lead singer’s perspective, along with the paths he’s traveled. Well written so that not only fans but those that aren’t fans will enjoy.

5THINGS WE RIGHT NOW

The Word Is Murder

My mom loves British television shows, specifically Midsomer Murders and Father Brown

LOVE

BOOK EDITION

Compiled by Margaret Sarver

A Man Called Ove

For the record, I don’t enjoy those shows (each episode is the length of a movie!). Mom and I were browsing a local bookstore and came across The Word Is Murder, written by Anthony Horowitz, who also wrote Midsomer Murders. Even though I’m not a fan of the show, the book sounded intriguing. And a fun twist is that the author inserts himself into this fictional story. I enjoyed his style of writing, and it’s a classic crime story. It’s the first of a series, and I’m looking forward to the next installment!

I’ve written about this book in the past, but it recently was released as a movie under the title A Man Called Otto. I haven’t had a chance to see the movie but have heard it’s a faithful rendition of the book A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman. I fell in love with this quirky tale about a grumpy curmudgeon. It’s an easy read—you can pick it up and put it down for a few days and not be lost. I smiled, laughed and got teary-eyed as I read about Ove and the lives he touched and have reread it a few times!

Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing

I epitomized the target audience when the television show Friends was released. I remember making sure to be home on Thursday evenings to catch it—and the agony of having to wait all summer to find out how cliff-hangers were resolved. I knew Matthew Perry had come out with a book and, on a whim, reserved it at the library. By the time I received the email that my book was ready for pickup, I had forgotten I had reserved it! I’m glad I requested it, though. While his back-and-forth style between past and present had me confused at times, it was an eye-opening story about the pursuit of fame and dealing with addiction.

“James, I’m afraid it’s time.”

He stared at me, utterly baffled. “Time for what?”

“Let’s go check the bathroom mirror.”

He followed, more curious than anything else.

“Look at your face and tell me what’s there.”

“I don’t see anything.”

“You’re not looking hard enough.” I pointed to the shadow on his upper lip. “See that? Those are whiskers. And those aren’t the only ones, either. There are hairs sprouting out of your cheeks and chin, too. You’re growing up, bub.”

“But I don’t want whiskers.”

“You know what that means, don’t you? You’re going to have to shave.”

I’ve used all sorts of razors over the years. Multiblade, single blade and electric razors—all have scraped off my facial hair and exfoliated my cheeks. But the one I’ve settled on, after all these years, is the type I used when I started shaving, the old-fashioned, double-edged razor. My favorite is a solid, German made, stainless steel model that came into the house as a gift and will probably outlast my grandchildren.

With his face freshly scrubbed, James placed a dab of shaving cream on each cheek and spread it across his face and neck. “Where should I start?”

“I suppose it doesn’t really matter. My first stroke is beside my right ear, but you can begin wherever you want. Just remember to keep your skin taut.”

James took a tentative stroke down his cheek.

“Perfect. Do all your cheek, then lift your jaw and get your neck. Then we’ll do the other side, get your chin, and finish up with your mustache. Oh, and take your time. When you rush is when you’ll nick yourself.”

He rinsed his face and gazed into the mirror with horror. “Father, I’m bleeding!”

“Calm down.” I lifted a small cylinder. “This is a styptic pencil.”

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

Whether you are single or married, own or rent your home, have children already or don’t, work full-time or stay home, you may qualify. We provide free training, 24/7 support, and monthly reimbursement to meet the child’s needs.

William R. Bartlett lives in Belton with his family.

&

BY PEGGY GISLER AND MARGE EBERTS

PAPERS DROWNING IN RED INK

QUESTION: Our middle school child’s papers are drowning in red ink. Her teacher circles every mistake that she makes in her writing. According to the teacher, the child has to learn to proofread and edit better. Unfortunately, the teacher does not suggest how she go about doing this. Do you have any suggestions? – Too Much Red

ANSWER: No one can immediately correct all their mistakes if a paper is covered in red ink. A good approach would be for the child to sit down with the teacher and ask him or her to tell her the two, or possibly three, major mistakes she is making on most of her papers. For this to be solid advice, she will need to take several papers with her. It would also be helpful if the teacher would work with her to correct some of these major mistakes, so she will know how they should be written correctly. More than likely, the errors are due to the child’s not knowing how to write certain things correctly. Once the errors have been identified, she needs to review the grammar, spelling or essay organization rules that she is not following.

The next step is for her to create a checklist of these two or three common errors so that she can use it to make sure she is avoiding them on the next paper she turns in. For example, the checklist might have such things as checking spelling and subject and verb agreement. Once she has gotten on top of these errors, she can add another, such as overusing a particular word. The one thing she will need to do, however, is to check every old and new item on her editing list every time she turns in a paper. By using this gradual approach, her papers should soon have a lot less red ink, and she will become a better writer.

If your child’s written work is being done on the computer, a quick fix for a lot of errors is for her to use the spelling and grammar editing functions, as long as they are allowed. If the problem lies in the content, make it a point to read her finished papers to her out loud, so she can hear the portions that just do not make sense. You may need to do this paragraph by paragraph or even sentence by sentence. This will help her better write what she really wants to say.

HELPING CHILDREN WITH HOMEWORK

QUESTION: My kids often want some help with their homework. I am far from an expert in being able to answer all of their questions. Are there any good places online that will give them the help they need? – Challenged

ANSWER: Most parents are sufficient experts to give children in the primary grades the help they need. However, when asked for help, parents should not immediately provide an answer. You want your young children to learn how to handle challenging work. The first step is to ask them to reread the question or problem so they understand what is being asked. This may be all they need to do. If not, ask them whether they have done something similar in class. If so, tell them to look at similar examples in textbooks, study guides, worksheets or computer lessons. If they still need help, ask questions to guide them to the answer. Finally, it may be necessary to teach a concept that simply has not been mastered. If a young child is having a problem with a math question, once a problem is solved with your help, watch the child solve several more to be sure he or she can do the work. By helping them in this way, you are putting them on the way to being capable learners.

By the time children are in seventh grade, they should be almost entirely responsible for doing their homework without your help. We do admit, however, that sometimes it is fun to help them with projects like making salt maps or building igloos out of sugar cubes. There are absolutely loads of places that middle school and high school students can find homework help. Some of the places require students to pay for this help, especially those that do one-on-one tutoring. Doing an online search for “best homework help” will give them a good starting point. Be aware of potential pitfalls, though. A student just advised us

that it is very easy to find answers by simply typing a question into a search engine.

If parents want to brush up on school subjects that their children are studying, they will find videos on the Khan Academy website that are very helpful. They also can simply research topics online.

Create a Homework Station at Home

To help your child focus and succeed with homework, consider creating a homework station either in their room or somewhere around the house. Have them help put together the workspace so they have a sense of pride and ownership. Here are some ideas to help you get started:

1. Choose a quiet location. Find a place where your child can work without interruption or interference. It doesn’t have to be a bedroom, or even a desk or table. Just a spot that is comfortable and quiet.

2. Get supplies. Make a list of items your child frequently uses when doing his homework. Supply the station with crayons, pencils, markers, scissors, glue, tape, erasers, a calculator, note cards, paper, notebooks, etc. Make sure that the supplies stay in the area so that your child doesn’t need to go looking for supplies each day.

3. Set the routine. Does your child do better with completing homework right after school? Or does she need a break? Discuss with your child the best time to complete homework and then make it a part of the daily routine.

4. Make it a pleasing spot. Books, a table, a lamp and a comfy chair will all help to make it a welcoming environment that your child looks forward to visiting every day.

STOP THE STALLING How to Get Kids to Stop Wasting Time

We’ve all been there: Trying to get out the door in the morning while the kids are still in their pajamas. Or trying to rush everyone to bed, but one is still finishing homework, one refuses to pick up the toys and the other has been brushing his teeth for 20 minutes. It can be maddening! We’ve put together a few tips to help get your kids to stop stalling and start moving!

Make It Fun

Cleaning up after a day of fun is one of the most common times my kids start stalling. We love playing “The Clean Up Song” on our Alexa. The girls start singing and cleaning, and the mess is cleaned up in no time. Now, when it’s time to clean up, my toddler says, “Alexa, play ‘The Clean Up Song.’”

If you have competitive kids, you also can pit them against each other to see who can finish assigned chores first. Offer a prize

like choosing the game the family plays that night or extra screen time. For toddlers, you can ask how many toys they can pick up. If the first child picks up five toys, ask the other child if he can pick up six. You can all count aloud as they’re cleaning to help with their counting skills, too.

Cleaning the toy room is a daunting task in our home. To get the kids started, I like to set a timer and see how much they can accomplish in just 10 or 15 minutes. They love to race to beat the clock. This tactic also works to get me motivated to clean the house.

Break Up Each Activity

Telling a child to get ready for school can be hard for them to understand. They might think if they are dressed, they are ready to go. In reality, they still need to brush their hair, eat breakfast and brush their teeth. If you break the process into smaller tasks for them, they are more likely listen. Instead of saying, “Go get ready for bed,” you can say,

“Go put on your pajamas, brush your teeth and grab your teddy bear.” Kids will have much clearer expectations of what you’re asking of them.

Give Them a To-Do List

It never fails. I ask my daughter if she’s ready for school and she says yes. Then it’s time to go to the bus stop and she hasn’t brushed her teeth yet! Making a chart with everything she needs to do to get ready each morning has made a big difference. Now she knows she can’t read a book or turn on the TV until her list is complete. It also helps because I can simply ask whether her list is complete instead of asking about each individual task.

Invest in Timers

We use timers as reminders often in our home. You can ask Alexa to set a reminder that says, “15 minutes until the bus comes,” “10 minutes until the bus comes,” and “time to go to the bus stop!” You can also set a

timer for bedtime. It’s much harder to argue to stay up just a few more minutes when Alexa is the one telling you it’s time for bed.

Be Consistent

Consistency is key. Having a set routine for every morning is essential. When your kids wake up, it’s important they know exactly how their day is going to start and what they need to do. Having a standard bedtime routine is also essential to your children’s sleeping well. If there is going to be a change in the routine, we also make sure to communicate that with the kids the night before so they know what to expect when they wake up.

Give Them Extra Time

I have a 2-year-old who is just learning how to do things on her own, and she wants to do everything independently, especially getting dressed. The only issue is we are usually in a rush to get out the door, and I tend to lose my patience and do everything

myself. I’ve noticed when we are in a rush our energy is chaotic, and that tends to result in meltdowns, which make us even more rushed. To combat this, I do my best to wake up a bit earlier so we have a more relaxed pace and there’s more time built in for her to do things on her own. If I let her choose her outfit and put on her shirt and pants by herself, she is able to gain some independence and is much more likely to cooperate the rest of the morning.

Reward Them

If your children are starting to show progress, give them a reward once in a while. My daughter used to stall like it was her job before bed. She would ask for another drink of water, a snack, another story and more snuggles. Now that she is getting older, we reward her for going to bed on time. Sometimes we tell her that if she can get to bed on time, we will let her stay up 15 minutes later to read a book. Or in the mornings if she gets ready for school and we

have extra time, I reward her with a trip to Panera for her favorite breakfast treat before school.

Let Them Learn from the Consequences

If you’ve given your child all the tools for success and they are still stalling and not completing tasks, let them know you are going to let them suffer the consequences for their choices. If they didn’t finish their homework before bed, have them go to school without their homework and take a bad grade. If they didn’t eat their breakfast, let them go to school hungry that morning. By doing this, you are letting your child take accountability and learn from the consequences.

Regan Lyons is a girl mom and freelance writer. She lives with her husband, Cale, and daughters, Atley, 8, and Ensley, 2, in St. Joseph, Missouri.

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Just One Thing …

No one imagines the whole parenting gig will be easy. In fact, most of us anticipate long days, longer nights and moments when up is down and sideways is straight. But even the most prepared parents can’t know the true weight of parenthood until it’s squarely resting upon their shoulders—pressing down and seemingly refusing to let up. Parenting can make you feel super strong and proud one moment and then knock you down to nothing 30 seconds later. It’s easy to get sucked into the rinse, lather, repeat cycle of it all.

If this describes you, I have an assignment for you. Today, pick just one thing to make you feel like a better, more relaxed parent. Just for today. I’ll even give you a list of choices. Pick one, any one. Or pick two if you’re feeling saucy. And remember that if this parenting thing were easy, the bookstore wouldn’t be filled with a self-help section dedicated to parents.

BUY YOURSELF FLOWERS

Find the biggest, boldest, most beautiful bouquet of flowers you’ve ever seen and bring them home. Remind yourself that you are doing hard things every day and coming out successful on the other side. You are raising amazing human(s) and you deserve to be celebrated.

BUY YOURSELF CHOCOLATE

Same thing as above, but maybe flowers aren’t your thing, so get chocolate instead.

STOP CLIPPING COUPONS

I know, I know. Coupons save you money and every little bit helps. But not today. Today you are putting away the promo codes and ceasing to scour the internet for the store that has deli meat for $1.00 less. Just stop for today. Get gas without looking at the price. Buy the expensive teeny cookies at the little boutique shop. Add the cold foam to your coffee.

EAT BREAKFAST

Food is not your enemy; it is your energy. And you are a crabby cake without it. So just today, take 10 minutes and make yourself a decent breakfast. Fruit, oats, maybe even an egg or two. Get some protein and some carbs and a little bit of fat and watch your day—and your parenting—improve dramatically.

FORGIVE YOUR PARENTING PAST

You have made mistakes. The ghosts of parenting past pop up into your consciousness at the most inopportune times, reminding you that maybe you aren’t any good at this gig. Forget them. Today is new and you have a clean slate. Let go of anything holding you back and move forward. Onward.

MAKE THE CALL

You have people in your life that want to help you be a better parent. Pick up your phone and call one of them today. Ask for advice on something that’s been bugging you, or a problem you just can’t quite solve. Listen to what they say and thank them. The benefits will be twofold: They will be thrilled you asked, and you will receive a new lens and perspective to tackle your day. Win-win.

SAY IT OUT LOUD

We have inner thoughts in our head that we keep quiet. Maybe it’s the fact that we don’t feel supported by our partner. Perhaps we really need someone to finally clean the guest room toilet because we are so sick of doing it. Just for today, say those thoughts out loud. We always tell our children to “use their words.” Today, you need to do it, too.

BREATHE

Of all the ideas on this list, this could be the hardest. Take five minutes today to simply sit … and breathe. Feel your breath in through your nose and back out through your mouth. It will be familiar because it’s exactly what you teach your child to do. Breathing will re-center you and remind you how to be present and focused.

TAKE A NAP

No, not a “rest your eyes” and think about how much time you have before the buzzer on the dryer goes off. I mean an under the covers, lights out, sound machine on, N-A-P. Make it at least 30 minutes. Sleep is the number one thing every parent on earth is lacking—but not you today. Today you are taking a nap. Enjoy it.

TAKE YOURSELF TO LUNCH

Or dinner or breakfast. Drive to a restaurant, get a table for one and enjoy a meal with your thoughts. I will allow you to peruse your phone, but you can’t be shopping for groceries or filling out summer camp forms for your kids. Instead, read about celebrity gossip or plan your next beach vacation, even if it’s 10 years away. Maybe even buy yourself a new outfit. Make the entire meal about you.

GO TO A MOVIE

Much like the nap, you don’t get to cheat here. None of the old “put a movie on while folding laundry and cleaning the living room” nonsense. Not today. Drive to a theater, get a huge tub of popcorn, turn your phone off and watch the movie you want to see from beginning to end. It will feel so naughty in the absolute best way.

TELL YOUR KIDS YOU LOVE THEM

I have no doubt you do this every day. But today, make sure they really hear it. Kneel in front of them and look into their eyes. Tell them you are so grateful to be their parent and they are the most important thing in your life. Finish it off with a hug where you don’t let go first— and voila! I guarantee you will both spend the whole day walking on air.

FIVE SUPER FAST WAYS TO BE A BETTER PARENT TODAY:

1. Say, “That’s okay, mistakes happen,” when you get cut off in traffic. Your kids will hear it and they’ll be kinder humans.

2. Take your kids out of school 15 minutes early to get ice cream. Yes, that’s right. Ice cream in the middle of the afternoon.

3. Put an “I LOVE YOU” note in your child’s lunch box.

4. Read your child a book before bed. You’ve meant to do it the last three nights and haven’t. Tonight’s the night.

5. Give your child extra dessert. For no reason at all.

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

Camp Guide

Camp Eagle Summit & Camp Eagle Summit, Jr.

Camp Eagle Summit is held on the Summit Christian Academy campus May 30-August 4, 2023. Camp Eagle Summit is designed for students who will enter 1st through 6th grade in the fall. Camp Eagle Summit, Jr. is for children ages 2 ½ by July 31 and pottytrained through entering Kindergarten in the fall. See display ad on pg. 29. www.Summit-Christian-Academy.org

Camp Wood YMCA

Give your child an unbelievable summer at Camp Wood YMCA! For over 100 years, Camp Wood has inspired kids to discover who they are and lead lives of adventure. Our week-long camp lets campers engage in archery, canoeing, high ropes, and so much

59,540

unique

more. All while growing in character and making new friends. Come visit us during one of our free open houses – April 23rd or May 7th! See display ad on pg. 33.

www.CampWood.org, 620.273.8641

Ceramic Café

Campers will explore the fascinating world of the fired arts with creative, hands-on projects including: clay sculpting, ceramic painting techniques, and fused glass. We will feature all new projects for camp 2023 using our favorite fired arts materials in new and creative ways! Items created will be fun and functional. Glazed ceramics are food safe! There will be built-in breaks for snacks and fun activities to get everyone up and moving around. Don’t wait, many of our sessions sold out last summer. See display ad on pg. 28.

www.CeramicCafeKC.com

Church of the Resurrection

Save the date to have your Kindergarten through 5th-grade kiddo join us for a week at Beach Bash. Everyone’s invited July 17-21 across any of our six Resurrection locations: Leawood, Olathe, Downtown, Blue Springs, Overland Park and our newest location in Brookside. More information at www.COR.org/vbc. See display ad on pg. 36.

The Coterie Theatre School Classes and Performance Camps

The Coterie offers summer acting and drama classes to students entering Grades K-12 at five sites: Crown Center (at the Coterie), The Plaza (Pembroke Hill), Overland Park (Miller-Marley), Liberty (Liberty Community Center), and Kansas City, KS (KCKCC). Led by professional, trained teaching artists, Summer 2023 week-long, half-day classes include creative drama, acting, and audition skills; and full-day performance camps for Grades 5-12 will be held at the Plaza, Liberty, and KCK locations. Get class schedules & descriptions or enroll online now at www.TheCoterie.org. See display ad on pg. 35.

DID YOU KNOW?

KC Parent’s

Culture House

Come have a summer blast at The Culture House where performing and fine arts camps fill the building with creativity, friendship and fun! There are all kinds of camps for your children: Theater, Musical Theater, Dance, Music and Art. Parents will love how smooth all aspects of registration and logistics are handled making it easy for all to enjoy a summer filled with great memories and new friendships. Sign up today before camps are full at www.CultureHouse.com! See display ad on pg. 37.

Father Son Kamp

Kanakuk’s Father Son Kamp is a 1-Week experience for Fathers and their sons ages 9-18, located in Branson, Missouri.

Step away from the noise and busyness of everyday life and enjoy an adventure filled with Christian adventure, incredible fun, and deeper relationships with your son! Fathers and sons will leave with priceless memories and practical tools to keep their relationship growing throughout the year. Learn more about this experience at www.Kanakuk.com/father-son-kamp or by calling 417.266.3000. See display ad on pg. 35.

Johnson County Park & Recreation District

From Outdoor Discovery to Just for Fun, we offer over 80 different and well- supervised camp programs conveniently located throughout Johnson County. Dedicated to

providing activities that promote emotional, intellectual, and physical health, our summer fun choices include nature and science, preschool enrichment, art, sports, computers, leadership development, music, theater, and dance. The options include both indoor and outdoor programs, and fulland partial-day schedules are available. For details, call 913.831.3359 or visit www.JCPRD.com/Camps. See display ad on pg. 33.

KC Watersports

Camps are held Monday-Friday from 9:00-3:00. Our passion is teaching people how to enjoy watersports at every level. Whether you’re new to the sport and have never ridden any kind

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•

Happy Camping

YOUR GUIDE TO CHOOSING THE SUMMER CAMP

Right

Your littles are finally interested in exploring the idea of summer camp this year. You have no clue where to start. Don’t worry, Kansas City mamas and dads—we’ve got you covered. We rounded up a list of a few resources in the area as well as tips for starting this journey.

First, decide what fits your family’s checklist. Does your kiddo have special needs or sensory restrictions? Do they enjoy being outdoors, or are they more comfortable with crafts and technology? Are you opting for a virtual, day or overnight camp? Do your kids like animals? What age range? Are they athletes in the making? Do they struggle with communication and voicing their needs? Are they independent go-getters? How much are you looking to invest in their camp experience?

Things to keep in mind:

Budget. Eliminate camp options with higher rates that exceed your targeted amount. No need to disrupt the budget with the most expensive destination. Find a happy medium.

Logistics and flexibility. How will your choice factor into your daily routine and how will you and your partner coordinate pickup and drop-off? Will camp clash with dance class or soccer practice?

Research. Scope out the camp’s website and/or call to chat with a staff member for any extra details you may need. Learn as much as you can before you ask questions and then ask as many questions as you need.

Expectations. What are you hoping your children take away from their summer camp experience? Maybe you want to help

connect them with other kids who share similar hobbies. Or maybe you just want to keep them intellectually stimulated because they seem to get bored after the first two weeks of summer vacation. Maybe they want to pursue a particular sport or become a Scout leader.

Quality instructors. You want people supervising your kids who are knowledgeable and fun—and people your kids feel comfortable with that you can trust. Ask for references and read student and parent reviews ahead of time. Make sure camp staff are familiar with your kids’ specific needs (if your child is autistic, for example).

Safety. You’ll want to know the staff-tocamper ratio, any safety protocols in place, and discuss boundaries, supervision and other topics of concern. Be sure to ask about first-aid training.

Accreditation. The American Camp Association handles safety standards.

Once you’ve run through that checklist, decide what camp options to research. There are dozens of categories of camps beyond your traditional outdoor summer camp away from home. Chat with your kids about their interests. Here are just a few possibilities to start with.

Types of summer camp:

Traditional outdoor summer camps

These camps typically offer plenty of new experiences and adventures for incoming campers. If your kiddo is outgoing and adventurous, you may want to look into this category.

Special needs summer camps

Whether your child has autism, asthma, diabetes, a physical disability or is hearing impaired, you are sure to find a specific camp to fit their needs that will accommodate them in the best way possible.

Arts and performance

If you have a tiny artist or musician in the making, camps like these could be the perfect outlet to nurture their gifts. Check to see whether any camps like this are offered in your area.

Scout camps

Though Scout camps may be quite similar to traditional outdoor summer camps, these emphasize a strong focus on leadership, earning achievement badges and encouraging teamwork.

Sports summer camps

Help athletes-in-the-making take their competitive edge in their chosen sport to the next level. Or maybe your kids love sports but aren’t sure which one to pursue. A sports camp might help them figure out which one is their true calling.

Emily Morrison is a freelance writer, former copy editor, full-time mommy and Disney fanatic who lives in Independence with her husband, son, daughter and dog.

$50

Fee ($75

Summit Christian Academy serves Christian families by partnering with parents and the church. At least one parent must have made a profession of faith in Christ and agree with our Foundational Documents. A pastor reference will be requested as part of the enrollment process.

Summit Christian Academy’s CAMP EAGLE SUMMIT & CAMP EAGLE SUMMITJunior

Register with code kcp23 to receive $15 off.

fun. faith. friendships. fun. faith. friendships.

Find it all this summer at Youthfront Camp.

Day Camps • Overnight Camps • Grades 1-12 youthfront.com/summercamp

Full day camps available for ages 5-17

June 5 - August 17

Monday-Thursday, 8:30am-3:30pm

www.KansasCityZoo.org/day-camps

CAMPGUIDE

of board before to the advanced rider wanting to learn a new flip or twist our camp will fit every level of rider. Included with camp is instruction from our top-level coaches, gear, and a light lunch. Kids bring a positive attitude, swim wear, sunscreen and a towel. See display ad on pg. 34. www. KCWaterSports.com

Kanakuk Kamps

Kanakuk is a premier Christian summer sports camp experience for boys and girls ages 6–18 with locations in Branson and Lampe, Missouri. With five overnight camps and 1, 2, and 4-Week sessions to choose from, Kanakuk provides kids with fun and safe sports and outdoor camping experiences that develop them spiritually, physically, emotionally, and socially. See display ad on pg. 25. www.Kanakuk.com, 417.266.3000

Kansas City Missouri Parks & Recreation

Get ready for 10 weeks of fun at Kansas City, Missouri Parks & Recreation’s Summer Day Camps! This year, camps include educational enrichment opportunities, field trips, games, art projects, recreational sports and more – all provided in a safe and healthy environment. New in 2023 is a Sport Specialty Camp and Outdoor Adventure Camp. Visit www.KCParks.org for details. Registration opens on March 13. See display ad on pg. 26.

59,540 unique visitors to the virtual camp guide in 2022

104,000 readers each month of KC Parent Magazine

DID YOU KNOW?

KCParent.com has a NEW Geo-based, searchable Camp Guide with maps, descriptions, photos and videos. With these stats, it’s easy to see how KC Parent has camps covered!

Kansas City Young Audiences

Sing, Dance, Act, Make, and Play! Kansas City Young Audiences offers children performing and visual arts classes, camps, and private instruction at their creative space on Main Street. Spring Break Camps: March 13-17, 2023. Summer Camps & Classes: June 5 – August 5. Scholarships are available. Early enrollment discounts too! 816.531.4022. See display ad on pg. 28. www.KCYA.org

Kansas City Zoo

Make your summer a little wilder with Summer Break Camp. Camp runs June 5 through August 17. Our day camp curriculums are age appropriate and are properly chaperoned at all times. Activities may include but are not limited to educational games, crafts, shows, rides, science experiments and educational movies.

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CAMPGUIDE

Full-day camps are available for ages 5-17, Monday-Thursday, 8:30-3:30, COST: $260. $234 for FOTZ members. Single-day camps also available. Learn more at www.KansasCityZoo.org. See display ad on pg. 30.

Leawood Parks

The City of Leawood Parks, Recreation & Arts department is offering a variety of summer camps for all ages and interests! Join us for creative art camps, fun and interactive sports camps, halfday outdoor camps, curiosity inspiring nature camps, and engaging STEM camps. These camps fill up quickly so don’t delay! Please visit www.Leawood.org or call 913.663.9154 to register today! See display ad on pg. 27.

Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art

Now enrolling for summer classes on weekdays June 13-July 28, and spring classes Saturdays through April 22! Each week, students ages 5-11 explore a different topic and create unique projects. Single-session classes this summer include painting, mixed-media shadowboxes, scratch art and mobile sculptures. Weekday summer classes feature special 4-day options: Painting Studio Week and 3-D Art Week. Aspiring Artists for ages 12-14 meets June 8 and 9. www.NermanMuseum.org or 913.469.2323. See display ad on pg. 34.

Oakhill Day School

Every day is a vacation at Oakhill

Fully Charged! Our flexible weekly themed day camps for campers ages two through middle school are a high-energy combination of play and creativity! Embark on a journey of what summer should be through field trips, camp-wide water balloon fights, trips to the pool, and more from our fantastic crew of Fully Charged counselors! Enroll online: www.OakhillDaySchool. org/Summer. See display ad on pg. 31.

Pembroke Hill

Summer at Pembroke Hill offers a comprehensive summer camp that provides a variety of academic, athletic and enriching classes that always

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LIFE LESSONS LEARNED AT CAMP

INDEPENDENCE

“I love summer camp because it teaches them independence,” says Jayne Holmes, Olathe mom of four. Away from parents, whether it’s for hours or days, kids are expected to be responsible for themselves, which includes everything from keeping track of their belongings to remembering to shower. With counselors and peers alongside to guide and encourage them, they learn to be independent in a way that is different from any other setting.

DIVERSITY

Summer is just around the corner, and it’s time to start registering kids for camp. Whether you choose to send your child to day camp or an overnight camp, you can be sure it will be a fun and memorable experience for your child. Camp can help your children step out of their comfort zone, experience something new, learn or develop new skills and spend time outside (and off screens) this summer. Many parents and kids will tell you they learned valuable life lessons while at summer camp.

When kids attend camp, they are exposed to a variety of people with different backgrounds, abilities, gifts and challenges. Camp forces kids to step out of their inner circle and meet kids they would not have come in contact with otherwise. This helps youngsters understand the world outside their neighborhood and prepares them

Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art Johnson County Community College

for high school and college where the school population is larger. Kids begin to understand that despite differences, people with all different backgrounds can have similar interests and values. It also helps build empathy, understanding, and teaches them how to be a good friend to others.

CONFIDENCE

Camp doesn’t just expose kids to diversity when it comes to people, but it also gives kids the opportunity to try something new. Being introduced to new activities and interests at camp can give kids the confidence they need to step out of their comfort zone and try new things in the future. Amy Cameron, Olathe mom of three, says, “They have come home with a new sense of grit and responsibility as well as new interests such as astronomy, horseback riding and canoeing. They’ve also developed a love for the outdoors and found that technology isn’t always necessary for entertainment.”

RELATIONSHIPS

Relationships are the most important thing in life. At camp, kids develop deep relationships quickly because of the teamwork, camaraderie and quality time that camp provides. These relationships are often valuable and long-lasting. As kids grow and natural distance grows between their camp friends, the memories are always there and the value and ability to build strong friendships remains a lifelong skill.

“My kids, my husband, his father and many other family members have all attended the same camp when they were kids, and it had a lasting impact on them,” says Cameron. “So much so that we took my father-in-law’s ashes there over the summer. It is where he would want to be.” Kids carry the great memories, valuable life lessons and the relationships built at camp with them through their lives.

Sarah Lyons is a freelance writer from Olathe where she lives with her husband and six children.

CAMPGUIDE

include an element of fun! Open to all students ages 2 through 18. Classes have limited enrollment, so you are encouraged to enroll early and online at www.PembrokeHill.org. See display ad on pg. 28.

Rock Springs Ranch

Since 1946, Rock Springs Ranch has been host to generations of young campers. They unplug, explore, learn lifelong skills, and grow in the heart of the Flint Hills of Kansas, a wondrous place with wide, open spaces. Many make friends for life. Open to ages 8-17 with choice of 3- or 5-night adventures with enrichment activities, outdoor fun, and expanded programming,

including a focus on leadership skills. www.RockSpringsRanch4hCamp.org (785) 257-3221 See display ad on pg. 31.

Summer at Barstow

Have you heard the buzz? Summer at Barstow is Kansas City’s favorite summer camp program for kids ages 3 and up! Campers love Summer at Barstow’s action-packed adventures in creative arts, athletics, academics and new this year STEAM camps for grades 1-12 at the Dan & Cassidy IDEA Space just down the road in Leawood, Kansas. Kids love exclusive camps and adventures; parents love our experienced instructors, 4:1 camperto-staff ratio and extended care options. Check out camps for every

budget, age, interest and schedule at www.BarstowSchool.org/Summer. May 30-Aug. 12. Email summer@ barstowschool.org or call 816.277.0445 for more information. See display ad pg. 32.

Tiger Rock Martial Arts

Train all summer at Tiger Rock’s Martial Arts Summer Camp. For only $199, you can spend your summer training at our studio. Fee includes summer training uniform and below and unlimited martial arts lessons. Hurry! You must register for this offer by June 1. Classes fill up every summer, so register today! 913.829.8818 (Olathe), 913.890.3179 (Lenexa), 913.851.5050 (Overland Park) or 605.595.5284

(N. Overland Park). See display ad on pg. 27. www.KCTigerRock.com

Youthfront

Faith. Fun. Friendships. Experience it all this summer at Youthfront Camp! We offer day camp for younger campers and overnight camps for elementary, middle and high school students. Camp features include our Splash Park on the lake, water slide, zip-lines and more. It’s sure to be a blast! At Youthfront, kids can grow in their relationship with God and make friendships that last a lifetime. Learn more and register at www.Youthfront.com/SummerCamp. Use KCP23 code for $15 off. See display ad on pg. 30.

MAKING THE MOVE WITH KIDS

To say that 2022 was a big year for my family would be an understatement. After 12 years of employment with a local company, my husband began working fully remote for a company headquartered in the Pacific Northwest. Our “surprise” baby turned 1. Meanwhile, my firstborn teenager grew 6 inches and found himself standing eye level with his 6-foot-tall father. And then, to top it all off, we moved.

As someone who moved a dozen times before I was even 13, I saw moving as a natural part of life. But for my kids, who had lived in the same house for their entire childhoods, moving was completely foreign. Thankfully, the circumstances surrounding our move were positive (we needed more space and found it in a home just down the road), but experts say that even positive moving experiences can be one of the top five most stressful events in a lifetime. With this in mind, I knew I wanted to tackle this life change as graciously as possible for both my children’s sanity and my own.

Involving Them in the Process

If your kids are anything like mine, they can sniff when something new is coming a mile away. My husband and I knew there would be no way to keep the process of moving a secret—nor would there be a benefit to keeping the idea under wraps—so we let them in on things as soon as we could. This gave everyone a chance to process things in their own way, side by side. My most sentimental child wanted to walk through every positive memory that was made in our old home, reliving what made each part of the house so special to him. We revisited home video footage of the boys toddling down the hallway as babies, dancing to Christmas music in the kitchen as little ones and tearing into birthday presents on the back patio in years prior. It was a good assurance to know we would be taking all our memories with us—and we had the photos and video to refer back to whenever we wanted.

With the volatility of the housing market this past year, we found ourselves in a great season to sell but at the mercy of a limited purchase inventory coupled with high demand, so finding the right place to move to was a tall order. When it came time to view listings, our boys piled in the car eager to walk through houses and have their say. Though they wouldn’t be making the ultimate call, getting their input was helpful for us and allowed them to feel some ownership over a situation they otherwise had little control over. They reveled in the potential one home had for hosting epic parties while gagging at the discovery of a dead mouse in a trap in another listing’s unfinished basement! From the moment we opened the front door of what has become our new home, each child enthusiastically informed us, “Mom, Dad, this is THE house!!!” Thankfully, we wholeheartedly agreed, which is a rare feat. After all, sometimes just figuring out what to make for dinner is a challenge with so many opinions! Better still was the fact that out of 11 offers, ours was accepted, meaning the house really could be ours.

Five Ways to Make Moving with Kids a Positive Experience

1) Let them document your old house by taking pictures and making a scrapbook of it so they have it to hold on to.

2) Host a send-off party, inviting neighborhood friends over for a last goodbye. If moving a long distance, set up an email account for your child to stay in contact with friends, schedule Zoom or Facetime playdates or consider gifting customized stationery, address labels and stamps to your children so they can be in contact with friends via snail mail.

3) Let them have some say in how they decorate their new space. It can be as simple as choosing a paint color, new bedding, or simply adding an accent or two.

4) Maintain your normal schedule as much as life allows. Moving throws a wrench in things for Mom and Dad. But as much as possible, try to maintain dinner and bedtime routines. Well rested children are much happier campers!

5) Pack your child’s room last in your old house and put it back together first in the new one. This gives them a sense of normalcy when everything around them is new. while my husband and I put our nose to the grindstone. Likewise, friends and family would come over to help with packing, holding the baby or keeping me company while I sorted through items I personally needed to process. Our oldest three did what they could to help, too, from packing up their own rooms to processing items in our playroom.

Calling in Reinforcements

Even positive moving experiences are a lot of work, and it can be easy to underestimate how much time will be required. This compounds the older you are, the more stuff you’ve accumulated, the more children you have, and the more demanding your job is. Trying to prepare our old house for market was a unique challenge all its own. A stager came through and recommended we take a significant amount of inventory out of our home to help it show better. We hauled boxes of excess over to my in-laws’ and parked it there ourselves for four days while our home was a revolving door of potential homebuyers. Because children are so resilient, our boys looked at the entire thing as a grand adventure. After all, getting to stay at Grandma and Grandpa’s during a school week? What’s not to love?! But when an offer was accepted, the honeymoon period of moving was over. The time had come to get our hands dirty.

You know who your true friends are when a life change like a move takes place. My in-laws took our kiddos for outings

On the day of the big move, loved ones showed up in shifts to help unload the moving van, shuttle smaller items from the old house to the new one in their cars and deep clean our old house to put it in order for its next residents. Midday, I brought in a stack of cardboard boxes: personal pan pizzas for each moving helper. With new kitchen chairs yet to be ordered, every person either stood in the kitchen or sat on a moving box to eat! It was among the first memories made in our new place.

Freelance writer Lauren Greenlee is an Olathe boymom of four who’s thankful to be on the other side of moving!

CREATE A FAMILY MEDIA PLAN

Ibelieve all generations have had their hardships when it comes to parenting, but both my mom and my grandma have told me they are glad to not have to parent young children today. There’s just a lot to handle, learn about and manage these days, and two of the key culprits are screens and social media. They’re like mosquitoes in the Midwest: unavoidable. There is definitely a spectrum of healthy and reasonable use, but how do you determine a good plan for your own family?

Personally, we have dragged our feet for a long time before allowing unfettered screen access for our kids because I realize how slippery a slope the issue is and we

wanted our children to experience all the perks of a childhood without a screen. Don’t get me wrong, my children all loved their cartoons and movies and some educational games when they were younger. But screens were always and only when I said and always something I had approved. We avoided iPads but got Kindle Fire tablets when our car DVD players went kaput but use them only for road trips. We held off on phones for a long time, as well, and just gave our daughter an old one of ours when she went off to middle school.

Now that she’s in seventh grade, it continues to get harder to stick to our guns about what we think is safe, appropriate

and necessary. Our son will be headed to middle school next year, too, so this is something our family needs to figure out more clearly so our children know the rules, why there are rules, and the consequences if those rules aren’t followed. I avoided screens and such for so long, trying to be a good parent but also out of fear—there’s just so much out there that is inappropriate or dangerous. But living in fear isn’t helpful. What’s essential is to learn and teach how to navigate these technical waters. The other dilemma parents have to face and develop a game plan for is social media. Will you allow your children to have it and, if so, at what age and with what, if any, restrictions?

First, let’s get an honest look at how much screen time the average child gets daily. According to TheAmericanAcademy ofChildAndAdolescentPsychiatry.org, “Children and adolescents spend a lot of time watching screens, including smartphones, tablets, gaming consoles, TVs, and computers. On average, children ages 8-12 in the United States spend 4-6 hours a day watching or using screens, and teens spend up to 9 hours. While screens can entertain, teach, and keep children occupied, too much use may lead to problems.”

That statistic alone is eye opening and a bit shocking when you look at how our own childhoods were spent—but not as shocking when we are honest about our own weekly screen time reports that our lovely iPhones supply us with each week.

Certainly, not all screen time is created equal. I think it’s important to be honest with ourselves when we consider how and why our families are using screens so much. If we’re using screens as a babysitter, time filler or boredom buster, then perhaps we should reevaluate how we could better use that time. But if we’re using technology to actually connect with people or engage with a project we are passionate about, or do legitimate work or schoolwork, then that should be fine—as long as we’re being smart by taking breaks and not overdoing it.

This is actually a great way to start a conversation about why and how you use social media and ask why your children would like to have their own social media accounts. We parents can be quick to assume things, but if we take the time to ask then really listen to our kids’ answers, we could be surprised. I think the primary reasons kids want to use social media are purely peer pressure and the desire to fit in. We all remember those days, right? Many teens use various social media apps to communicate with each other, so it’s hard to be the “only” kid without a certain app “everyone” else is using. That can make a teen feel left out. Honestly, it’s also hard as a parent to have your kid be left out. Sarah Lyons, mother of six, says, “My daughter got social media in eighth grade. She was being left out of friend activities without it, so we relented. It was monitored strictly, and she had time limits on how much she could use and then it would shut down for the day. Once she was in high school, we lifted some of those restrictions.” Amy Seibert, mother of two, had a similar situation with her daughter and says, “Our eighth grader got TikTok this year mainly so she could see the ones her softball team kept sending in group messages, but she doesn’t make or post videos.”

If you’re not sure about what age makes sense for your child to get a phone or social media, I’d suggest trusting your gut—as with most parenting issues—and checking in with other friends and parents of your child’s friends to see whether your child is actually the “only” one without these privileges. You can even suggest ways that kids in the friend group can communicate with each other apart from social media. Megan Euler, mother of two, says, “Harper is in seventh grade, and he has a phone but no social media like TikTok, BeReal or Snapchat. We are holding off on social media as long as we can. He has Bark on his phone, so I am monitoring his activity. He did ask for the BeReal app. I looked into it and didn’t love the idea. There is so

much pressure already, I don’t want him to worry about all the other stuff until he’s more mature. I think this will be harder to monitor in high school, but for right now he manages my telling him no.”

As you start down the social media path with your children, have them sit with you and learn how to use different apps with you. Show them how to make posts private or public and talk about who to follow and

and instruct them what to do if someone contacts them—and to never share their location, never meet up with anyone they meet online, never share private information, never share or request inappropriate photos. Basically, “scare them straight” in a sense to make sure they really do think before they post. Sharing actual stories about what has happened to others is important for them to have their eyes opened to what can happen.

THE FAMILY MEDIA PLAN INCLUDES:

• A list of media priorities to choose from

• Practical tips to help make the plan work

• Why it’s important

• The ability to print or share your finished plan

• The option to save your plan and return as often as you’d like to make changes

(Create a plan today at HealthyChildren.org.)

what to do if they have an uncomfortable interaction online. When you do allow social media, start with just family members and maybe a couple of close friends—but always follow their accounts and what they are posting, as well as check in on any messaging. Inform your children that you will be following their accounts and have access to check in on their phones periodically, and keep communication open. Remind your children that regardless of who their besties are now, friends often change during these teen years, and friends sometimes turn on each other. Show them how easy it is to screenshot a private message or photo they may think is safe to send to their best friend. That screenshot can then be shared and used against them if the friends ever fall out.

Before allowing your children to have their own social media accounts, it’s imperative to go over all risks that come with obtaining access to the online world, as well as granting that vast world access to whatever you post. Explain that once it’s posted or sent, you can’t get it back. Caution them not to communicate with anyone they don’t know

Also, don’t leave out the dangers of becoming depressed by spending too much time on social media, feeling left out by others when you see friends hanging out without you, and following celebrities or influencers who make them feel bad about themselves.  According to KidsHealth. org, “Keep the computer in a common area where you can watch what’s going on. Teach your child about safe internet and social media use. Make sure they know the dangers of sharing private information online, cyberbullying, and sexting.” Our children’s safety is top priority, and rules are there because we love our kids and know more of what threatens out there in the online world that they can’t even imagine. Keeping up with all that’s out there is a job in itself, so I follow Officer Gomez and Tech-Savvy Parenting on Facebook for more information.

As for creating a family media plan, check out HealthyChildren.org to create your own plan with and for your family. Discuss how screen use can be positive, and sharing your family’s favorite ways to be on a screen can be a great way to start this conversation. Screens and social media

can help us stay connected with friends and family, can help us learn new things like drawing and cooking, and can be a fun brain break when we become stressed. But it’s equally important to share any negatives that can come from being online too much. I suggest letting your kids share what they think and whether they’ve ever felt any of negative emotions from being online. Then, parents should share about when they know they’ve been online too long and what it feels like to them. Some examples could be not sleeping as well, not meeting work deadlines, turning in school assignments late, spending less time with family or friends, not being as physically active or just not feeling quite like themselves or even becoming depressed.

Discussing and setting up screen time limits is important, as is modeling the behavior you expect from your children or explaining why you may have more screen time than they do. I have had time limits on my phone for a couple years now because I know how easy it is to keep scrolling and that there are other ways I prefer to spend my time. Talk about how social media is like mental junk food that’s designed to be addictive. Our bodies wouldn’t feel great eating Cheetos for hours straight, and our minds don’t feel great scrolling online for hours on end either. Chat about how it feels when we’re being productive in contrast to spending hours in mindless scrolling.

Setting family guidelines for technology has many facets. Even if you have restrictions on social media and independent time on screens, you may still use screens together. Family movie night is one example. Take the opportunity to discuss other activities you all enjoy offline, too. Talk about how to determine whether a site, show or online game is appropriate by discussing ratings and your family’s values about content. Keep devices in common spaces and turn

them off when not in use or at inappropriate times—like during conversations or at the dinner table. Turn all devices off an hour before bed and charge them outside of bedrooms. Set up and agree on some house rules with clear consequences for when family members do not abide by them. My research for this article seemed to reveal a good consensus that age requirements for apps are there for a reason. Families should also keep in mind that the biggest names in tech, like Bill Gates and Steve Jobs, had strict rules on screens for their children because they knew the addictive nature of the things they created. It’s also good to note that, though screen time and social media are fine when they don’t take over our lives and interfere with our basic needs, our basic needs are pretty diverse. They include eating, sleeping and staying physically active—as well as leaving the house, being social in person, engaging in other activities and getting work or schoolwork done.

Clearly, social media can be a positive thing if used well. It’s how I share my life with others, keep up with far-away friends and family, as well as learn new recipes, lifestyles and more. The same can be true for our children. It’s a tool that we need to be able to use well and not be controlled by. And allowing phones and social media does give parents some leverage for expecting good behavior. Sarah Lyons says, “We also have some rules about phones with chores. For example, if you are old enough to have a phone, then you are old enough to do your laundry. As for social media, our high schoolers both have Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, etc. They have proven over years that they are responsible.” According to an article at Time.com, Melissa Hunt, associate director of clinical training in the Department of Psychology at the University

of Pennsylvania, has conducted a number of social media studies. One, published in 2021, found that college students who used social media for 30 minutes per day—what the researchers described as a “modest” amount of time—had the highest well-being compared to those who either didn’t use social media at all or who used it excessively. “ ‘They’re the most connected, the least lonely, the least depressed compared to people who use way too much, but also compared to people who use none,’ she says. ‘It’s not that social media is in and of itself inherently problematic,’ Hunt says. ‘It’s that using too much of it, or using it in the wrong way, is very problematic. My advice is if you’re going to use social media, follow friends for about one hour a day’—a number she bases on the findings of other studies suggesting that ‘60 minutes is probably the sweet spot,’ and the fact that it’s a more realistic goal for people to shoot for than 30 minutes a day.”

Remember, according to ChildrensMercy. org, “The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry has reported that kids ages 8 to 12 are typically on screens 4 to 6 hours per day and teens are on screens typically up to 9 hours per day.” Technology certainly is pervasive, so we parents do need to help our kids navigate this. But I’ll admit, sometimes I get a bit paranoid about screens. I just don’t want my kids to become addicted, have no other interests or develop any unhealthy behaviors—but I have to remind myself that their childhoods are different than mine, and screens and social media aren’t going away any time soon. Our kids should learn how to manage these things well while they’re at home, so they can make educated decisions for themselves moving forward. Parenting just never gets easier, does it?

Stephanie Loux is the mother of Layla, 12, Mason, 11, and Slade, 7. She thinks back to her days of bringing cool disposable cameras everywhere she went, spending time on AOL’s AIM and getting her first cell phone that stayed in the car for emergencies only.

Discussing and setting up screen time limits is important, as is modeling the behavior you expect from your children or explaining why you may have more screen time than they do.

Benefits

OF PET OWNERSHIP FOR KIDS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

Pet ownership can bring joy and happiness to any home. For children with special needs— particularly for those with sensory processing disorder, autism, ADHD and social or behavioral issues—adopting a domesticated pet can provide wonderful benefits. Here are some great reasons to consider adding a pet to your family.

HELPS GROW SOCIAL SKILLS

Kids who spend time playing with a pet typically enjoy interacting with people more than kids who don’t own a pet. They also learn to develop skills such as trust and interpreting nonverbal cues. Owning a pet can also encourage empathy toward animals and humans alike.

LOWERS STRESS

Having a furry friend to play with, pet and cuddle can lower stress and elevate mood. Stroking a pet’s soft fur can have a calming effect on people. “When my daughter is crying, our cat will come running and snuggle up to her,” says Katlyn Purkapile, Edgerton mom of three. “It has been amazing to see the change it has made with her. My daughter starts petting her and calms down quicker than any other techniques we have tried. It’s a really special relationship.” According to a study done by Frontiers in Psychology, people who spend time with a pet on a regular basis have lower blood pressure, lower heart rate and less stress. Patients that were visited by a service animal while in the hospital also reported less pain.

HELPS DEVELOP LIFE SKILLS

Kids who have the opportunity to care for a pet will also develop important life skills, such as time management, responsibility and an understanding of the importance of schedule for feeding, walking and cleaning their pet.

BUILDS STABILITY

Kids who crave stability and routine will benefit from having a pet in their lives. Pets can provide a different type of stability that they may not get from peers or family members. “My 8-year-old has ADHD. We recently got him a kitten, and he sits still and is calm with her for long periods of time,” says Olathe mom Pricella Edwards. “I believe it helps him.”

PROMOTES LEARNING

Many parents have found that having their pet near them during virtual learning or while doing homework helps children stay calm and focused. “My 11-year-old has anxiety and depression. For her birthday,

she received a guinea pig. Lilly, the guinea pig, has been a game changer,” says Tiffany Nolan, mom of five. “Virtual schooling was especially difficult for her. Suggesting she snuggle Lilly will dramatically improve her mood and demeanor. For her (and for us) it has had a huge positive impact.”

Pets are a great addition to any family but can be a huge help to kids with special needs. Before adopting a pet, consider what type of animal would best fit your lifestyle, space and budget. “It’s important to do your research and get a pet that will work for your family,” says Becky Smith, Olathe mom. “I was very careful about getting an older cat with a calm demeanor to best get along with my kids.” Ask your children for their input and let them help choose what type of pet they would like to join the family. Chances are your new pet will have a positive impact on everyone in your household.

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

5 SIMPLE TIPS FOR BIRTHDAY BASH SUCCESS

(Family Features)

Whether you’re planning a princess tea party or a superhero birthday bash, the secret to organizing a party your child will treasure is to keep your little one’s interests at the forefront.

If your child does well in smaller groups, keep the guest list small. Plan the menu around her favorite foods and look for little touches that celebrate the unique joy she brings to your family. Make his big day extra special with these simple tips that make childhood birthday parties manageable but magnificent:

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

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

3 Amp up the activity. Create opportunities for all the little partygoers to participate in the festivities with interactive games that tie back to the theme of the party. Old-school favorites like pin-the-tail on the donkey can be updated to reflect today’s popular characters; make-yourown slime or clay is the perfect project for a group of mad scientists; or a treasure hunt can be adapted to nearly any theme.

Add some fancy to the food. If your party menu calls for more than cake and ice cream, you can take advantage of another avenue to carry through your theme. A little creativity, some clever monikers and a few basic modifications can quickly transform everyday snacks into festive fun. For example, a dinosaur party might feature Brontosaurus Burgers and T-Rex Trail Mix. The options are nearly endless, and if you’re at a loss, you can find ample inspiration online.

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

DEALING WITH AN UNDERACHIEVER

Life is filled with opposites. Up and down, highs and lows. Sweet and salty and, last but not least, we have the haves and have nots. Read on for a little bit more information on how to deal with an underachiever.

RULE # 1 – No one strives to be an underachiever. Don’t compare.

From early childhood, people are programmed to go out into the world and give their absolute best effort. We tell our children they can be whatever they want to be and buy toys that help them create or fix things. Naturally, we tell our children what is considered good behavior and what is considered bad. Ultimately, kids just want to be liked, and in their minds, whoever gets the attention, whether good or bad, wins. Overachieving and underachieving can be part of that vying for attention. The Davidson Institution describes this as the “First Best” and “First Worst,” a complex described as competing to be the best but on two opposing ends. Now the draw-in: how children gain attention. The real message is how we as parents idolize one good thing over the other and forget everything else in between. Simply put, we praise the firstplace winner and forget all about the thirdplace champ. Now, imagine if your child were that third-place champ. What if your child were the fifth-place runner? Last, imagine him or her coming in fifth place every single race. Best-kept secret? Don’t reward bad behavior or mediocrity and never make your kid feel like his personal best is not the best you’ve ever seen.

RULE #2 – No one is to blame.

It’s easy to throw a pity party for yourself or to blame your child for not trying hard enough. In cases of achievement, don’t do it! The best approach is to be supportive and remain positive. Help your child find what he is good at and support him in his journey; don’t criticize him in hopes he’ll get it. Pushing kids to work harder at something they simply have no interest in or are not good at will only kill their self-esteem, infuriate you or thin your patience.  Instead of using your energy to urge your child to work harder at the same thing, try to challenge your child to understand that “thing” in a different way. Alter the approach.  Growing up, I had the toughest time trying to understand long division. I had no

problem with multiplication and the basics of understanding beforehand. I just didn’t understand why I had to use long division to divide things or why remainders even existed. My mom would get frustrated and ask my older siblings to help me with my homework. My older siblings would quit halfway through my homework lesson. It wasn’t until my great-grandmother came over to babysit that we discovered I just needed someone to slowly describe the process of division. In that moment, I didn’t feel pressured, pushed to understand something or criticized for not knowing the answers.

RULE #3 – It’s okay to ask for help.

It takes a village to raise a child, and asking for help doesn’t make you desperate, nor does it make you ignorant. In fact, asking for help can only make you better. Reach out to a professional if your child is consistently exemplifying negative behavior. Turns out Newton’s third law doesn’t apply just to physics. “For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction.” There may be a deeper reason or more than one reason as to why your child is scraping the bottom of the barrel.  Ask your parents how they dealt with situations like your child is dealing with. Their insight could really help both you and your child.

Jessica Samuel lives in Kansas City and is a freelance writer and photographer.

Keeping Kids Busy During Travel Delays

Planes, trains and automobiles. They’re essential for travel, but we parents know they can cause motion sickness and make kids antsy, bored and cranky. Preparation weeks before your trip will help make sure your children are ready to sit down, watch people and keep themselves occupied.

Airlines now offer free movies on their apps, and a good set of earplugs or wifi ear buds are a good investment. Watching a movie on the tray table is a wonderful distraction! Pack a surprise bag to take along, too, whether you are driving or flying. Stock it with special snacks, word search books, crossword puzzles, favorite dolls or stuffed animals and new surprises.

The dollar store is a great place to find sticker books and all the other items you will need in your arsenal. Prepare for toddler meltdowns by having special treats

Taking a trip doesn’t have to cause stress if you plan ahead and make light of any unexpected events.

to calm those nerves. Fill a plastic egg with special pictures they can look at. Or hide items in their backpacks and tell them to search for them. Any distraction usually works. Try a Slinky, which is quiet, or a pair of new sunglasses your little one can use.

I was flying recently and noticed a grandma holding a child around 8 months old. Every time she started to fuss, out came the big plastic bag and a toy of some kind. I was impressed to see how the child stayed quiet!

Don’t forget that one of the ways to mystify a small child is to tell stories in an animated way. You can craft tales about where you’re going, whom you’ll see and what you’ll do when you get there. You can make up stories about the adventures your luggage is having in the belly of the aircraft. Hand puppets can dazzle your child with stories and a running commentary about the flight. In a pinch, you could even turn an air-sickness bag into a puppet!

A trip is a great time to surprise your kids with a new pair of tennis shoes for all the walking they’ll do. Other novelties include a travel size toothpaste and shampoo they can use in the hotel or at Grandma’s house and a new backpack they can carry themselves. Items like these help kids feel like they are on an adventure and not just sitting in a car seat or plane chair so long.

Be prepared for travel disruptions. You may find your plane delayed or just be facing a scheduled layover. Be sure to pack special pajamas and a small pillow for your little one’s comfort. Calm and cheerful interactions give kids a lot of reassurance, too. One idea is to play I spy… I spy a lady with a black hat, a man with a giant suitcase or another child sucking his thumb.

Travel journals become treasured souvenirs when a little bit of time is set aside each day for writing and illustrating. Children can describe the best and the worst of each day of the trip, giving them a safe space to work through feelings about big, new experiences. They can also keep a daily rating system with whatever kind of scale

works for them. One to five stars, smiley faces or hearts can do the trick. Journals can be worked on during plane flights, car rides or while lounging by the pool. Keeping the journal with you throughout each day, along with fun writing and art utensils, is key to making the most of downtime or moments when distraction is needed.

To energize little legs for long treks through the airport, nature walks and hikes and lengthy museum explorations, try a scavenger hunt. This is another activity you can work on before you travel with your child to build excitement. Together you can create scavenger hunts for the family to complete in a variety of circumstances that may come up during your trip. Allowing kids to process these things in advance and to predict what may happen can bring comfort. Make copies of scavenger hunts in advance so everyone in the family has one. Asking your child to reproduce them on her own is another activity to help her pass time after the trip begins. Put stickers in that surprise bag to reward your child.

Audiobooks and guided meditation podcast episodes for kids can be downloaded in advance of your trip to help little ones wind down, fall asleep or stay entertained on long rides. Be sure to have a selection that fits the range of their moods. Choose funny stories for silly times, gentle stories for sleepy times and stories about adventure for when you need to keep your child engaged.

You can’t possibly anticipate all the things that may happen when you travel, but that’s part of the beauty of stepping outside your comfort zone as a family to take a trip. A bit of fun preparation can be a saving grace for all of you. Build excitement, calm anxieties and pass the boredom together with simple ideas. You may end up enjoying these small moments and simple activities as much as your kids do.

Judy Goppert lives in Lee’s Summit. She enjoys drawing on her personal experiences to writes about the nuances of everything wonderful about life.

Screen-free ways to occupy kids while traveling

Keeping children content while traveling is tough. There is a lot of sitting still, being quiet and calm and facing boredom. It’s tempting to shove a device into children’s hands, and this is okay some of the time. Here are some other tempting ways to keep those little hands and minds busy.

1) Coloring books. Try Color Wonder books and markers that won’t make a mess. Also, bring along blank white sheets of paper and have children draw the clouds they see outside the plane window, the back of the person’s head in front of them or how they feel about going somewhere new.

2) Audio books work well for car trips and help the family connect. The library has audio books you can rent, or try Audible for downloadable books for your device.

3) Dry erase activities are great. Draw a map of where you are starting, to where you are going, and all the fun stops along the way.

4) Check into Mom, I’m Bored and Get Going America online.

5) Books! New books and look-and-find books are a treat for kiddos.

6) Play road trip games. You can find lots of these online.

Sources: FamilyEducation.com, News.Yahoo.com

DESTINATION #1: DOWNTOWN

Kansas City’s largest, most interactive science museum, Science City at Union Station, offers something for visitors of all ages. Little ones especially love three experiential, hands-on exhibitions: “Let’s Play!” designed especially for babies, crawlers and toddlers with multiple sensory and role-playing activities, “Creative Corner” where art meets science in a whole new way with cool interactive activities and “All Aboard” that celebrates Union Station’s rail history.

Walk the Link from Union Station to Crown Center where you can enjoy Funville, the newest free, hands-on exhibit for kids. In Funville, children experience grown-up occupations in a kid-friendly setting. The interactive exhibit offers ways to imagine careers in weather forecasting, magic, farms, a salon or government. Whatever they choose, the most important job in Funville is to have fun.

Sea Life Aquarium transports guests into an amazing underwater world with up-close views of more than 5,000 sea creatures! Next door to Sea Life you’ll find Legoland Discovery Center in Crown Center, a larger-than-life attraction.

National World War I Museum and Memorial is not only a Kansas City landmark, but an American landmark. The museum tells the story of the Great War through interactive displays, thought-provoking films and eyewitness testimonies. With family guides and hands-on exhibits, the museum is an educational attraction for all ages.

FOUR FUN IDEAS FOR A KC SPRING BREAK STAYCATION

If you’re in the mood for an outdoor adventure, Kansas City Kayak & Canoe offers float trips to paddle local Kansas City waters in a kayak or canoe. Floating down the Missouri River is a one-of-akind experience, and KCKC makes it simple, providing all the equipment and a variety of float trips for a few hours or a day.

DESTINATION #2: JOHNSON COUNTY

Urban Air Adventure Park (locations in Overland Park and Lenexa) is our favorite local trampoline park. Offering much more than trampolines, this is a great place to spend a day! Urban Air gives a generous helping of frenetic fun with attractions like Kidzone and Urban Air Warrior Course.

RoKC Olathe is an excellent indoor attraction to get a bit of exercise and challenge yourself to try new things. Adventurers have a blast bouldering and rock climbing on walls up to 50 feet tall! The facility offers introductory classes and walk-in programs for beginners and experts alike, with a variety of styles for every skill level and interest. For bouldering

and training enthusiasts, the facility offers hydraulic Kilter and Tension boards, MoonBoard, campus board, hangboards and system boards.

Get your DIY on at Ceramic Cafe, a local paint-your-own-pottery shop also offering glass fusing during walk-in studio hours. Glass fusing involves layering multiple pieces of colored glass to create a design. The pieces are fired in a kiln producing beautiful tiles, bowls, jewelry and other works of art.

If you have little ones, KidScape at the Johnson County Museum is a whimsical, hands-on, child-sized city. Children time travel to different periods and communities from the region’s past. They enjoy pretend play as they work on the farm, perform at the theater or the puppet show, teach in the school, deliver the mail, care for patients at the hospital and fry up some burgers at the diner.

Blade & Timber (5203 W. 117th St., Leawood) is a great indoor attraction for adventurers. This indoor axe-throwing venue allows you to reserve a lane or play with strangers, throwing axes at a wooden target. This is great fun for couples or group. Participants must be 10 years old or older.

Science City at Union Station

DESTINATION #3: SWOPE PARK

Explore the Kansas City Zoo. Travel all over the world without ever leaving the Kansas City Zoo. Take a spin on the Endangered Species Carousel, ride the train, then continue your journey on the tram to the award-winning Africa exhibit. Visit Helzberg Penguin Plaza, the Discovery Barn and Stingray Bay. Stroll down Tiger Trail and get nose to nose with primates, orangutans and tigers—and be sure to explore Australia too.

Near the Kansas City Zoo, Go Ape offers treetop and private group adventures. The two- to three-hour obstacle course includes 40 crossings that feature rope bridges, five zip lines, Tarzan swings and net bridges. This is a fully immersive experience combining obstacles and zip lines for the adventure enthusiast.

For animal lovers looking for a free, lowkey outing, Lakeside Nature Center is an urban oasis and home to native animals in need of care. Children will learn about conservation and the needs of the animals. Enjoy hiking trails around the center and coming face to face with birds, reptiles, fish and mammals.

DESTINATION #4: KANSAS CITY, KANSAS

Located in the heart of Village West, the state of Kansas’ top tourist destination, Legends Outlets is the only outlet shopping destination serving the greater metropolitan region. Legends Outlets is home to more than 75 leading designer and favorite brand-name stores, including Coach, Banana Republic Factory Store, Gap Factory, J.Crew | crewcuts, Nike Factory Store, Polo Ralph Lauren Factory Store, Tommy Hilfiger Outlet and Under Armour Factory House, among many more. These stores

offer savings of up to 65% off regular retail prices. One of the most fun attractions at Legends Outlets is Dave & Buster’s, a restaurant and indoor arcade offering hours of entertainment.

Stay at Great Wolf Lodge or buy a day pass to swim at the indoor water resort that boasts a four-story interactive tree house water fort, winding lazy river and numerous slides, including the Triple Twist, a high-speed, five-story drop into a huge funnel followed by twists and turns. Kids love the MagiQuest game as they attempt to conquer a dragon solving riddles throughout the lodge. Tip: If you don’t want to stay overnight and enjoy the waterpark, you may go enjoy MagiQuest only—a fun interactive game for kids who love wizards and fantasy.

Take in a little sightseeing as well. History buffs will enjoy a tour of Grinter Place, the oldest home in Wyandotte County, for a look at frontier life along the Kansas and Missouri border.

Kansas City mom Kristina Light enjoys taking her girls on adventures all over her hometown.

Urban Air Adventure Park

Kansas City Zoo

Legends Outlets

MARCH KC TRIVIA

5 On March 3, 1860, William Rockhill Nelson, patron of this museum, was born.

1

March 26 is National Spinach Day. Which of these local towns is considered Spinach Capital of the World?

A) Lenexa B) St. Joseph C) Shawnee D) Peculiar

2

March 14 is National Potato Chip Day. Which of these companies is in the Kansas City area?

A) Lay’s

B) Ruffles

C) Guy’s

D) Utz 3

After existing for a couple decades as a river trading port, then briefly being known simply as the town of Kansas, Kansas City added the “City” to its name on March 28 of what year?

A) 1860 B) 1853 C) 1848 D) 1870 4

You may experience March Madness in Kansas City March 24-26 at the T-Mobile Center. What is the audience capacity at the venue?

A) 17,522

B) 18,972

C) 15,400

D) 16,350

C) Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art

ST. PATRICK’S DAY IN KANSAS CITY

Celebrate Kansas City’s rich Irish heritage with St. Patrick’s Day fun in Kansas City:

ENJOY IRISH FOOD:

Browne’s Irish Market 3300 Pennsylvania Ave., Kansas City, Mo., 816.561.0030, BrownesIrishMarket.com.

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

Llywelyn’s Pub 301 SE Douglas St., Lee’s Summit. Known for their authentic Celtic food and friendly neighborhood atmosphere, Llywelyn’s is an unforgettable experience.

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

O’Malley’s 1842 Irish Pub 500 Welt St., Weston, Mo., 816.640.5235, WestonIrish.com. O’Malley’s serves authentic Irish fare in an authentic Irish-American pub, complete with Irish music. You can choose indoor or patio dining (where you see the famous world’s largest ball of string). The menu includes salads, sandwiches, steaks, soups and, of course, fish and chips.

LOCAL ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADES:

Visit KCParent.com and search St. Patrick’s Day Guide for directions and maps for each parade:

• St. Patrick’s Parade in Downtown Overland Park: March 11, 10:00

• Emerald Isle Parade in Downtown Lee’s Summit: March 11, 11:30

• St. Patrick’s Day Warm-Up Parade in Brookside: March 11, 2:00

• 39th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Downtown Shawnee: March 12, 1:00

• Martin City St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Historic Martin City: March 12, 2:00

• Kansas City’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Westport: March 17, 11:00

• Lawrence’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Lawrence: March 17, 1:00

OVER 1,000 EVENTS EACH MONTH!

play

March 4 head to Vesper Hall in Blue Springs for Brunch and Bingo. Enjoy the morning with friends while eating a delicious brunch and playing bingo!

Pre-reg. at 816.228.0137.

March 13 is SensoryFriendly Monday at Johnson County Museum. Smaller session for kids with sensory processing differences and autism spectrum disorders. Pre-reg. at JCPRD.com.

Spring Open House at Family Tree Nursery in Overland Park.

1 Wednesday

Winter Reading Challenge Thru March 15, MCPL. Read any five books in two months to earn a free, limited edition mug! Details and registration at MyMCPL.org.

Funville Thru May 7, Crown Center. An exhibit where children experience grownup occupations in a kid-friendly setting. CrownCenter.com

Opening Day 10:00, Shawnee Town 1929. Shawnee Town 1929 opens for the year! Take a self–guided tour or a guided tour with expert staff. ShawneeTown.org

Sea Turtle Rescue 10:00, Sea Life Aquarium. Simulated experience where you can weigh a sea turtle, feed it and guide it back to the ocean. VisitSeaLife.com/kansascity

Animal Tales Story Time 10:30, Ernie Miller Nature Center. Listen to a story and meet a special animal friend. Today’s theme: Animal Peekaboo. 913.826.2800

Family Night 5:00, Lenexa Public Market. Bring the whole family for free activities and classic board games. Visit website for dining specials. LenexaPublicMarket.com

KidsClub 6:30, Westside Family Church (Lenexa and Speedway). Midweek event for kids in first through fifth grades to have fun and learn about the love of Jesus. WestsideFamily.church

2 Thursday

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

Only One Day a Year 9:45, the Coterie. Two stories told in tandem, one based in the era of racial segregation and another set in contemporary times. TheCoterie.org

It’s OK to Be Different 10:00, 1:00 and 6:30, Yardley Hall. Three contemporary stories by bestselling author and illustrator Todd Parr adapted for stage. JCCC.edu/mtcartsed

Pay for Play 10:00, Backyard Specialists. Plan a playdate for your children and their friends at the amazing showroom! BackyardSpecialists.com

Honk, Jr Thru Saturday, TCH Stage & Studio. Feeling rather foul about himself, the little fowl finds himself on an adventure of self-discovery. CultureHouse.com

3 Friday

Spring Open House Today and tomorrow, downtown Lee’s Summit. Enjoy food and drink specials while exploring the latest trends in home décor and apparel. DowntownLS.org

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

Toddler Time 2.0 10:00, Blue Springs Fieldhouse. Play inside the fieldhouse on mats, scooters, slides, a bounce house and more. BlueSpringsGov.com

Junie B Jones and a Little Monkey Business 10:00, City Stage. Theater for Young America presents show based on the books by Barbara Park. TYA.org

Ice-Skating 10:00, Crown Center Ice Terrace. Spend the day skating with the family on Kansas City’s public outdoor rink. CrownCenter.com

Creative Story Time 10:30, Ceramic Café. Read a book, then paint a ceramic item that goes along with the story and finish with a snack. CeramicCafeKC.com

Participation is the name of the game for this concert with sing-alongs, bangalongs and audiencedriven improvisation.

Youth Art Class

10:00 or 2:00, Nerman Museum. Learn about balance in nature in art and create a symmetrical collage. Ages 5-7. Pre-reg at NermanMuseum.org.

First Fridays 7:00, Crossroads Art District. Art galleries, retailers and other participating art venues located in the Crossroads Art District showcase art. KCCrossroads.org

4 Saturday

Kids Projects and Activities 9:00, Home Depot locations across the metro. Children will enjoy making their own pinball game. HomeDepot.com/c/kids

Winter Farmers Market 9:00, Brookside Farmers Market. The winds of winter won’t keep local farmers, ranchers and artisans from feeding you. BrooksideFarmersMarket.com

Maple Sugaring 9:30, Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop and Farm. Explore making maple sugar, from the tapping of the tree to the boiling of the sap. Pre-reg at Mahaffie.org.

Youth Art Class 10:00 or 2:00, Nerman Museum. Learn about balance in nature in art and create a symmetrical collage. Ages 5-7. Pre-reg at NermanMuseum.org.

Brunch and Bingo 10:00, Vesper Hall (Blue Springs). Enjoy the morning with friends while eating a delicious brunch and playing bingo! Pre-reg at 816.228.0137.

Mother Nature Reads 10:00, Lakeside Nature Center. Children hear a story, make a craft and often see a wildlife interpretation. LakesideNatureCenter.org

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

5 Sunday

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

Brunch and Bingo 10:00, Chicken N Pickle (Overland Park). Join for a delicious brunch and enjoy FREE bingo games. ChickenNPickle.com

Public Tours 11:00, Cedar Cove. Explore Cedar Cove with an experienced guide. See these epic animals and learn about them. Tours start every half-hour. SaveOurSiberians.org

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

6 Monday

Early Bird Sale Thru April, Kansas City Zoo. Save money on tickets for Jazzoo on Friday, June 2 by purchasing tickets early! KansasCityZoo.org/Jazzoo

Gym for Me 9:00, Lenexa Community Center. Play items are available, including push toys, riding toys, balls and inflatables. Lenexa.com

Sensory-Friendly Mondays 9:00, Johnson County Museum. Limited occupancy session for kids with sensory processing differences and autism spectrum disorders. Pre-reg at JCPRD.com.

Baby Story Time 9:30, Corinth Library. A lap-sit program of songs, rhymes and movement for babies. Ages birth-18 months with caregiver. JoCoLbirary.org

7 Tuesday

Preschool Indoor Playground 9:30, Merriam Community Center. Too cold to play in the park? Ride, slide and play inside! Parents supervise children. Merriam.org/park

Maya: The Great Jaguar Rises Thru March 12, Union Station. Journey through the aweinspiring Maya architecture and astonishing cultural accomplishments. UnionStation.org

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

8 Wednesday

Open Gym 9:30, Kaw Prairie Community Church. Grab a coffee from the coffee shop and hang out with friends while your kiddos get their energy out! KawPrairie.org

Visit Legoland 10:00, Legoland Discovery Center. Take the kids to the ultimate indoor playground for the biggest fans of Lego. Purchase tickets at LegolandDiscoveryCenter.com.

Retro Story Time 10:00, Johnson County Arts & Heritage Center. Hear a story from long ago read by a guest from the 1950s All-Electric House! Craft included. Pre-reg at 913.831.3359.

9 Thursday

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

Toddler Time 10:00, Ceramic Café. On Mondays and Thursdays, toddlers 5 and under can paint one selected item for just $12! CeramicCafeKC.com

Are You Ready to Grow A Reader?

As your baby’s first teacher, you can make the difference in the future of their success by singing songs, listening to music, and, most importantly, reading books every day.

Mid-Continent Public Library's Grow A Reader program offers Storytimes, online resources including video storybooks, and, of course, countless books at each of our branches to help start building successful reading skills.

Winter Reading Challenge Thru March 15, MCPL. Read any five books in two months to earn a free, limited edition mug! Details and registration at MyMCPL.org.

Crafternoon for Kids 4:30, Olathe Indian Creek Library. Get creative with a fun craft after school at the library. Pre-reg at OlatheLibrary.org.

10 Friday

Funville Thru May 7, Crown Center. An exhibit where children experience grownup occupations in a kid-friendly setting. CrownCenter.com

WildRoots NaturePlay 10:00, Wildwood Outdoor Education Center. Immersive lesson about the natural world and unstructured playtime with peers. Pre-reg at WildwoodCtr.org.

Prince/Princess Tea Party 10:30, Meadowbrook Park. Dress in your best for music, dancing, games, tea and cookies. Ages 2-5 with adult. Pre-reg at JCPRD.com.

Raspberry Spring Expo Today and tomorrow, The Pavilion at John Knox Village. Shop for metal and fabric art, photography, ceramics, pottery and more. IBDPromotions.com

Public Tours

Weekends, Cedar Cove. Explore Cedar Cove with an experienced guide. See these epic animals and learn about them. Tours start every half-hour. SaveOurSiberians.org

St Patrick’s Celebration 8:00, Midwest Trust Center. Danú presents a high-energy performance with a mix of ancient Irish music and new repertoire. JCCC.edu/midwesttrustcenter

11 Saturday

Second Saturday 9:00, Powell Gardens. Take advantage of extended hours and visit between 9:00 in the morning and 9:00 in the evening to explore. PowellGardens.org

Kids in the Kitchen: Snack Attack 10:00, Johnson County K-State Extension. Learn to make fun, tasty and easy-to-prepare snacks! Pre-reg at Johnson.K-State.edu.

St Patrick’s Day Parade 10:00, downtown Overland Park. Wear your green and attend this family-friendly event! DowntownOP.org

Spring Craft Show 10:00, Raymore Activity Center. Shop from local artisans, crafters and small business owners. Free admission. Raymore.com

Speaker Series 10:00, Grinter Place State Historic Site. A historic program presented in the house, along with tours of the house. GrinterFriends.com

Build a Bluebird Nesting Box 10:30, Anita B Gorman Discovery Center. Bluebirds begin nesting the first half of March. Build a bluebird house! Pre-reg at MDC.mo.gov.

St Patrick’s Day Parade 11:00, Fourth & Main (Tonganoxie). Join to celebrate the 35th anniversary of the parade! TonganoxieBusinessAssociation.com

Emerald Isle St Patrick’s Day Parade 11:30, downtown Lee’s Summit. Annual parade featuring floats, Irish dancers, bagpipers and more. DowntownLS.org

St Patrick’s Day Parade 2:00, Historic Lexington. Join for a St Patrick’s Day celebration beginning with the parade in downtown Lexington. LexingtonStPatsParade.org

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

St Patrick’s Day Parade 5:00, Main Street Belton. Celebrate all things Irish with a community parade celebrating St Patrick’s Day. Belton.org

12 Sunday

Maya: The Great Jaguar Rises Thru March 12, Union Station. Journey through the aweinspiring Maya architecture and astonishing cultural accomplishments. UnionStation.org

Two

Family

Kansas City Reptile Show 10:00, Double Tree by Hilton (Overland Park). See reptiles and exotic animals and shop for cage supplies and feeders. ColdBloodedExpos.com

Public Tours 11:00, Cedar Cove. Explore Cedar Cove with an experienced guide. See these epic animals and learn about them. Tours start every half-hour. SaveOurSiberians.org

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

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

13 Monday

Kids Day Out 8:00, Johnson County Museum. Have fun while school’s out. Hands-on activities, exploration of Kidscape and more. Pre-reg at 913.715.2570.

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

Spring Fling Thru Friday, Ernie Miller Nature Park. Enjoy spring with a trip to Ernie Miller! Hike the trails and enjoy a special program each day at 10:00. 913.826.2800

14 Tuesday

Pay for Play 10:00, Backyard Specialists. Plan a playdate for your children and their friends at the amazing showroom! BackyardSpecialists.com

Mother Goose Rhyme Time 10:00, Antioch Library. An active program of songs, classic rhymes and fingerplays. Ages 12-24 months with caregiver. JoCoLibrary.org

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

15 Wednesday

Junie B Jones and a Little Monkey Business 10:00, City Stage. Theater for Young America presents show based on the books by Barbara Park. TYA.org

Gamin’ with the Grandkids 1:30, Matt Ross Community Center. Enjoy an afternoon of music, eight games of bingo, photo booth and more. Pre-reg at JCPRD.com.

Family Night 5:00, Lenexa Public Market. Bring the gang for free activities like a balloon artist, coloring pages, classic board games and more! Grab a bite to eat. LenexaPublicMarket.com

16 Thursday

Toddler Time 10:00, Ceramic Café. On Mondays and Thursdays, toddlers 5 and under can paint one selected item for just $12! CeramicCafeKC.com

Spring Break Living History 10:00, Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop and Farm. 1860s living history activities like plowing, planting, helping in the garden and more. Mahaffie.org

Spring Break Cookie Decorating Noon, Indian Creek Library. Cookies, frosting and sprinkles! It’s time to decorate some cookies. OlatheLibrary.org

Free Family Fun Nights 5:00, Kansas Children’s Discovery Center. Come explore a special place where children can create, discover and learn through play. KansasDiscovery.org

17 Friday

St. Patrick’s Day

Spring Break 10:00, Shawnee Town 1929. Spend your spring break traveling ... back to 1929! Free admission today! ShawneeTown.org

1. STEP BACK IN TIME

Mahaffie Stagecoach

Stop & Farm is one of the best living history museums in the area. Visitors are invited to learn about the 1860s working farm with horses, chickens, sheep and other livestock. Experience living history with hands-on activities, including stagecoach rides, tours of the Mahaffie home, cooking demonstrations, blacksmith demonstrations, exhibits at the Heritage Center and Agricultural Heritage Livestock Barn. Mahaffie.org

SIX-STOP TOUR: OLATHE

2. GO BOWLING

Mission Bowl in Olathe is a favorite hangout spot for locals. This family-friendly bowling alley offers bumper bowling, cosmic bowling and open sessions for families. The Corner Pin Grill serves a tasty menu of chicken strips, pizzas, burgers, appetizers, salads, wraps and more.

Mission Bowl is also a great spot to host your child’s next birthday party.

MissionBowl.com

3. GO FOR A HIKE

The Ernie Miller Nature Center is a 113-acre park southwest of K-7 Highway. The park offers miles of paved and rugged nature trails featuring both prairie and wooded areas, as well as ponds and creeks. The center offers special programs throughout the year, including Animal Tales story times with special themes for each season and Little Critter’s Day Out programs with presentations for little ones.

ErnieMiller.com

4. SUNSET AT THE LAKE

Take a walk at Kill Creek Park where you can enjoy a spectacular view from the 58-foottall Russell and Helen Means Observation Tower. An elevator carries visitors to the top for great views of the Kansas landscape. In addition to the observation tower, the 880-acre park offers trails across streams and lakes and through prairie and wooded forests. JCPRD.com

5. EXPLORE DOWNTOWN

Downtown Olathe is home to many great local shops and restaurants. Favorite places to eat in the area include the Sunflower Café, Park Street Pastry and Olathe’s Downtown Diner. In addition to local businesses, the downtown district also features public outdoor art. This city’s public art collection is eclectic, ranging from modern pieces to art that tells the story of Olathe’s history. Learn more: gis. OlatheKS.org/ maps/sculpture/.

6. CLIMB INDOORS

RoKC Olathe opened this year. Adventurers have a blast bouldering and rock climbing on walls up to 50 feet tall! The facility offers introductory classes and walk-in programs with a variety of styles for every skill level and interest. For bouldering and training enthusiasts, the facility offers hydraulic Kilter and Tension boards, Moonboard, campus board, hangboards and system boards. ClimbKC.com

Toddler Time 2.0 10:00, Blue Springs Fieldhouse. Play inside the fieldhouse on mats, scooters, slides, a bounce house and more. BlueSpringsGov.com

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

St Patrick’s Day Geocache 11:00 or Noon, Shawnee Mission Park. Modern-day scavenger hunt using a GPS device to find the caches. Pre-reg at JCPRD.com.

St Patrick’s Day Parade 11:00, begins along Linwood & Broadway (Kansas City, Mo.). Come see one of the largest parades in the nation. KCIrishParade.com

St Patrick’s Parade 1:00, downtown Lawrence. Celebrate St Patrick’s Day with a parade and family fun! LawrenceStPatricksDayParade.com

Local Life Today and tomorrow, downtown Overland Park. Explore locally owned businesses, activities and more. Head to DowntownOP.org for details about this month’s theme.

Book of Kells Today and tomorrow, the Folly Theater. Störling Dance presents a poignant story with beautiful choreography and Celtic music. StorlingDance.org

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

Cub Scout Night 6:30, Kansas City Zoo. Scouts explore after sunset with night hikes, s’mores and sleeping at the zoo. Pre-reg at KansasCityZoo.org.

18 Saturday

Winter Farmers Market 9:00, Brookside Farmers Market. The winds of winter won’t keep local farmers, ranchers and artisans from feeding you. BrooksideFarmersMarket.com

Spring Open House Today & tomorrow, Family Tree Nursery (Overland Park). Live music, food trucks, creative display gardens, kids activities and more! FamilyTreeNursery.com

Story Time in the Barn 10:00, Alexander Majors Home. Preschoolers enjoy themed activities and crafts based on a storybook. WornallMajors.org

Little Acorns 10:00, Anita B Gorman Conservation Discovery Center. Join for a journey through forests, streams and other magical places as we read select books. Pre-reg at MDC.mo.gov.

Murder on the Orient Express Thru April 2, Olathe Civic Theater. Adaptation of the Agatha Christie classic boasts glamour, intrigue and suspense. OlatheTheatre.org

19 Sunday

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

Public Tours 11:00, Cedar Cove. Explore Cedar Cove with an experienced guide. See these epic animals and learn about them. Tours start every half-hour. SaveOurSiberians.org

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

For over 75 years, Oakhill Day School has provided the Kansas City Northland with student-first academic offerings that fit every family's needs. Experience firsthand the variety of options that Oakhill can provide for your family. Whether you need an early childhood program for your child's first years of school, well-rounded K-8 academics, or flexibility for your busy high school student, we will help you find YOUR perfect fit.

adulthood.

MTC Kids Jam

March 25, Midwest Trust Center. Enjoy fun art activities in the lobby followed by a concert featuring Billy Jonas. JCCC.edu/midwesttrustcenter

20 Monday

Open Gym 9:30, Kaw Prairie Community Church. Grab a coffee from the coffee shop and hang out with friends while your kiddos get their energy out! KawPrairie.org

Early Bird Sale Thru April, Kansas City Zoo. Save money on tickets for Jazzoo on Friday, June 2 by purchasing tickets early! KansasCityZoo.org/Jazzoo

National Let’s Laugh Day 10:00, Lee’s Summit Community Room. Storyteller Jo Ho offers chuckles and belly laughs to help welcome the arrival of spring! Pre-reg at MyMCPL.org.

Night at the Arboretum 5:00, Overland Park Arboretum. Bring flashlights and be ready to gaze at the night sky during the spring equinox. OPKansas.org

21 Tuesday

Visit Sea Life 9:00, Sea Life Aquarium. Bring the kids to see the Doodle Reef, the touch pool, Stingray Bay and more! Purchase tickets online at VisitSeaLife.com.

Preschool Indoor Playground 9:30, Merriam Community Center. Too cold to play in the park? Ride, slide and play inside! Parents supervise children. Merriam.org/park

22 Wednesday

Funville Thru May 7, Crown Center. An exhibit where children experience grown-

23 Thursday

Pay for Play 10:00, Backyard Specialists. Plan a playdate for your children and their friends at the amazing showroom! BackyardSpecialists.com

Family Story Time 10:15, Indian Creek Library. Join for stories, songs and fingerplays. For a ages 3 -5 with an adults. Pre-reg at OlatheLibrary.org.

•

24 Friday

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

Junie B Jones and a Little Monkey Business 10:00, City Stage. Theater for Young America presents show based on the books by Barbara Park. TYA.org

Murder on the Orient Express Thru April 2, Olathe Civic Theater. Adaptation of the Agatha Christie classic boasts glamour, intrigue and suspense. OlatheTheatre.org

25 Saturday

MTC Kids Jam 11:00, Midwest Trust Center. Enjoy fun art activities in the lobby followed by a concert featuring Billy Jonas. JCCC.edu/midwesttrustcenter

Kids Ukulele Class 11:00, Shawnee Town 1929. Calling all kids! Interested in trying out the ukulele? This is the class for you! Pre-reg at ShawneeTown.org.

The Amazing Family Race 4:30, Meadowbrook Park. Use clues to play games, solve puzzles and have fun. Pizza and Popsicles provided. Pre-reg at JCPRD.com.

26 Sunday

Brunch and Bingo 10:00, Chicken N Pickle (Overland Park). Join for a delicious brunch and enjoy FREE bingo games. ChickenNPickle.com

Public Tours 11:00, Cedar Cove. Explore Cedar Cove with an experienced guide. See these epic animals and learn about them. Tours start every half-hour. SaveOurSiberians.org

Hike with a Naturalist 11:00, Lakeside Nature Sanctuary. Guided walk/hike that focuses on habitats around the center. LakesideNatureCenter.org

27 Monday

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

Visit Sea Life 10:00, Sea Life Aquarium. Bring the kids to see the Doodle Reef, the touch pool, Stingray Bay and more! Purchase tickets online at VisitSeaLife.com.

Toddler Time 10:00, Ceramic Café. On Mondays and Thursdays, toddlers 5 and under can paint one selected item for just $12! CeramicCafeKC.com

28 Tuesday

Circle Time 9:30, Indian Creek Library. Practice early literacy and developmental skills with stories, songs and action rhymes. Pre-reg at OlatheLibrary.org.

AKMA After Hours 5:00, Albrecht-Kemper Museum of Art. Bring the family for an event featuring kids games and activities and more! Albrecht-Kemper.org

29 Wednesday

Open Gym 9:30, Kaw Prairie Community Church. Grab a coffee from the coffee shop and hang out with friends while your kiddos get their energy out! KawPrairie.org

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

Funville

Thru May 7, Crown Center. An exhibit where children experience grown-up occupations in a kid-friendly setting. CrownCenter.com

Visit Legoland 10:00, Legoland Discovery Center. Take the kids to the ultimate indoor playground for the biggest fans of Lego. Purchase tickets at LegolandDiscoveryCenter.com.

There’s Nobody Here But Us Chickens 6:00, Raytown Community Room. Join storyteller Joyce Slater for chicken stories for all ages. Pre-reg at MyMCPL.org.

30 Thursday

Early Bird Sale Thru April, Kansas City Zoo. Save money on tickets for Jazzoo on Friday, June 2 by purchasing tickets early! KansasCityZoo.org/Jazzoo

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

Little Critter’s Day Out 9:00, Ernie Miller Nature Center. Little critters enjoy three hours of fun and education as you enjoy some personal time! Pre-reg at 913.826.2800.

Pay for Play 10:00, Backyard Specialists. Plan a playdate for your children and their friends at the amazing showroom! BackyardSpecialists.com

Into the Woods Thru Saturday, TCH Stage & Studio. See favorite storybook characters brought together for a timeless, yet relevant, piece. CultureHouse.com

31 Friday

Funville Thru May 7, Crown Center. An exhibit where children experience grown-up occupations in a kid-friendly setting. CrownCenter.com

Homeschool Conference Today and tomorrow, KCI Expo Center. There’s something for everyone from the veteran homeschooler to those new to homeschooling. MidwestHomeschoolers.org

Legend of the Enchanted Reef 3:00, Arvin Gottlieb Planetarium. An entertaining story with a message about the importance of our oceans. UnionStation.org

Parents Night Out 6:00, Southeast Community Center. Children enjoy sports, games, crafts and educational activities while parents have a night off. KCParks.org

Girl Scout Night 6:30, Kansas City Zoo. Scouts explore after sunset with night hikes, s’mores and sleeping at the zoo. Pre-reg at KansasCityZoo.org.

NATIONAL CRAFT MONTH

Search “Craft Corner” on KCParent.com for many fabulous, fun, simple crafts you can enjoy at home.

MARCH FUN CALENDAR

MARCH 11 Popcorn Lover’s Day Since

1937, Velvet Crème Popcorn Company has been serving popcorn that is “smooth like velvet and rich as creme.” The store features two giant popcorn containers on either side of the front door, welcoming visitors for a fun photo op.

MARCH 12 Plant a Flower

Day The passionate horticulturalists at one of Family Tree Nursery’s three local locations are always on hand to help you select the perfect plants for your yard. Head to this gardener’s paradise where you can find the perfect flower (or other plants) to enjoy.

MARCH 1 Peanut

Butter Lover’s Day Makers of fresh homemade ice cream, Sylas and Maddy’s (multiple locations) concocts some scrumptious peanut butterthemed flavors like Peanut Butter Freak and Peanut Butter Crunch.

MARCH 13 National Genealogy Day The Midwest Genealogy Center (MGC) is one of the United States’ preeminent resources for family history. The 52,000 square feet of space houses all the free resources needed to research your family history.

MARCH 1 National Anthem Day “The Star Spangled Banner” became our national anthem on March 3, 1931, when President Herbert Hoover signed a congressional resolution making it so. Do your kids know all the words? This might be a good day to practice.

MARCH 14 Potato Chip

Day Local grocers stock Guy’s Potato Chips, a Kansas City original. In 1938, Guy Caldwell began to prepare and sell peanuts using a peanut roaster in the back of a Kansas City storeroom, eventually expanding his business to include chips. True to their Kansas City roots, their Legendary Barbeque Potato Chips are one of the most popular and best loved varieties.

MARCH 17 St. Patrick’s Day Visit KCParent.com for events around town celebrating the holiday. Did you know that the first ever St. Patrick’s Day Parade occurred in New York City in 1762?

MARCH 23 World

Agriculture Day Bonner Springs is home to the National Agricultural Center and Hall of Fame, a great place to visit and learn about farming.