KC Parent April 2015

FREE | April 2015 | KCParent.com | Since 1985

PARENT M A YE A R S

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For 30 years, bringing together families in Kansas City

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go green to save green! helping the earth can help you

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pages of camps galore! tips to get kids to

listen

the 1st time!

physicians

lee’s

summit

group

Lee’s Summit Physicians 1425 N.W. Blue Parkway Lee’s Summit, Missouri 816.524.5600 LSPhysicians.com

We offer pediatric walk-in urgent care seven days a week, medical advice by phone, after-hours on-call physicians and online scheduling!

Raintree Pediatrics 995 SW 34th St. Lee’s Summit, Missouri 816.525.4700 Raintree-Pediatrics.com Blue Springs Pediatrics 1600 NW South Outer Road Blue Springs, Missouri 816.554.6520 BlueSpringsPediatric.com

Sallie L. Veenstra, MD Barbara S. Trites, MD Lisa B. Fletcher, MD Deann E. DeWitt, MD Allison C. Henschel, MD Sarah J. Gladstone, MD Bryan L. Phillips, MD Daniel E. Gershon, DO Veronica Manka, MD Jeffrey P. Yannette, MD Jennifer M. Sauer, MD Ashley Campbell, DO

Urgent Care Blue Parkway office Mon-Thur 8:00 am - 7:00 pm Friday 8:00 am - 4:00 pm Sat-Sun 8:00 -11:00 am Blue Springs & Raintree Mon-Fri 8:00 am -11:00 am

Danielle Leivian, MD Robin Dawson, MD Cynthia M. Dean, DO Anne Parkin-Cohen, MD Lauren Lee, C-PNP Kelly R. Fritz, C-PNP Julie Kirkpatrick, C-PNP Camille Lucitto, C-PNP Sarah Dedrick, C-PNP

Scheduled appointments Mon-Fri 10:00 -12:00 pm & 1:00 - 4:00 pm Free Prenatal Consults Mon-Fri 10:00 -12:00 pm & 1:00 - 4:00 pm

trust.

healthcare you can 2

kcparent.com april 2015

Angela Stott, C-PNP Kimberly McNerney, C-PNP Tiffany Vitt, C-PNP

Emler Sure.

At Emler Swim School, we GUARANTEE your child will learn the important swim skills that begin their journey to a lifetime of water enjoyment and safety. So when you watch him take that big leap off the dock, you’ll know you made the right decision. That’s Emler Sure.

Conveniently located in the Leawood, Kansas area.

Sign your child up for a free swim skills evaluation today. www.emlerswimschool.com/free

20% OFF Spring Savings await at U.S.Toy!

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Your learning, party, and toy destination! kcparent.com april 2015

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816.363.STAR All Shows Start at 8:00 pm

Did you know for every pair of glasses purchased at The EyeDoctors a pair of glasses is donated to someone in need?

Local- We partner with one non-profit organization in each community where The EyeDoctors are located to offer free eyecare and glasses for persons experiencing financial hardship.

NOW OPEN

SOUTH OLATHE 401 S Clairborne, Olathe, KS 66062 913-782-1213

LOUISBURG 8 S Broadway Louisburg KS, 66053 913-837-4611

OLATHE 15311 W. 119th St Olathe, KS 66062 913-780-3200

PAOLA 705 Baptiste Suite 200 Paola KS, 66071 913-294-4342

Find additional locations and information at

www.TheEyeDoctors.net

TheEyeDoctors @TheEyeDoctors

Regional- We distribute free glasses to homeless groups, veteran groups, and non-profit work force training centers.

International- We donate glasses to mission trips to Nicaragua, Haiti, Peru, Trinidad, and more to be given out free. The glasses are distributed through VOSH (Volunteer Optometric Services to Humanity) Southeast chapter, a 501 (c)(3) charity.

For more information on how you can help share the gift of glasses, visit www.theeyedoctors.net and click on: The Gift of Glasses

Parks Children’s dentistry

A family centered approach to children’s dentistry n

At Parks Children’s Dentistry we treat your child with the same kindness and compassion which we would treat our own children.

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Parents and children meet with Dr. Parks at every visit to discuss each child’s unique needs, focusing on education and preventive care.

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Conveniently located off I-435 at Roe Avenue in the Foxhill Medical Building.

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Welcoming infants, children, teens and those with special needs.

4601 W 109th St #217, Overland Park, KS 66211 (913) 491-5044

parkschildrensdentistry.com

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Meet Dr. Conrad Parks and his family

Seasonal Allergy Treatment What are spring allergies?

Spring allergies are most likely to be due to tree pollen in the air, although grass pollen and outdoor molds are also measurable during this time of the year. It typically starts in February with a peak in March and April and tapers off in May. However, during May and June the grass pollen then peaks.

What causes the symptoms?

Allergy symptoms are the result of a chain reaction that starts in the immune system.

Your immune system controls how your body defends itself. For instance, if you have an allergy to pollen, your immune system identifies pollen as an invader or allergen. Your immune system overreacts by producing antibodies called Immunoglobulin E (IgE).

These antibodies travel to cells that release histamine and other chemicals, causing an allergic reaction with symptoms such as sneezing, stuffiness, a runny nose, itching and post-nasal drip.

Meet Dr. Zachary D. Jacobs I love talking to people about allergies and immunology and helping them with their problems. It is in my blood, literally. I have allergies too.

What are the symptoms of spring allergies?

Spring allergies most often cause “hay fever,” with symptoms such as itchy nose, sneezing, runny nose, post-nasal drip, congestion and red, itchy eyes. Exposure to pollens can also cause wheezing and asthma and occasionally can cause eczema to flare.

How are allergies treated?

Sometimes taking steps to avoid allergens isn’t possible (you can’t live in a bubble and not be exposed to the outdoors) or it isn’t enough to control allergy symptoms. That is when we may prescribe or recommend medications or allergy shots.

Plaza: 4330 Wornall Suite 40 Kansas City, MO 64111 NorthlaNd: 9411 N. Oak Trafficway Suite 160 Kansas City, MO 64155

816.531.0930

Some medications for nasal allergies or asthma are best used daily to control inflammation and prevent symptoms, while others are used only as needed to relieve symptoms.

We may talk about the possibility of immunotherapy (allergy shots or sublingual tablets) if your symptoms are constant, if you don’t want to take medications or feel that they are not enough, or if you want long-term control of your allergies with less need for medications. Immunotherapy has proven to be effective in decreasing sensitivity to allergens and improving symptoms.

OUR PROMISES TO YOU: n

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Our goal is to treat and to substantially improve the quality of life in allergic kids and adults.

We pledge an open and honest discussion on allergies and treatment.

We offer personalized care that is on the cutting edge. Patients seen within a week.

Learn more at

www.kcallergycenter.com

Feel Better. Breathe Easy.

APRIL

2015

DEPARTMENTS 18-PLUS PAGES OF CAMP GUIDE PG. 26

12

Craft Corner

15

Healthy Kids

20

Media Mix

23

Word from Dad

FEATURES SPECIAL SECTIONS

15

44

26

Camp Guide

43

Party Guide

52

Calendar of Events

50

Smart Snacks

Library Love

Earth Day

Tips for healthy snack options for kids

Confessions from a library-aholic

Ideas for celebrating Earth Day in KC

Our cover features Brielle and Brinley from Louisburg. Cover and select interior photos by KiaBondurant.com.

FREE | April 2015 | KCParent.com | Since 1985

PARENT M A YE A R S

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ON THE COVER

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Camp Guide

26

pages of camps galore!

Get Kids to Listen

42

tips to get kids to

Go Green to Save Green

46

the 1st time!

listen

DISCOVER THE FUN OF SUMMER CAMP

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EDITOR’SLETTER APRIL 2015

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NASCAR Giveaway!

One lucky reader will win a prize package valued at over $500!

Editor Margaret Sarver Margaret@KCParent.com Art Director Kim Tappan Tappan Design Kim@KCParent.com Advertising Sales Darrell Dean Ted Massing Marla Westrup Advertising@KCParent.com Electronic Media Manager Kristina Light Kristina@KCParent.com Event Calendar Susan Hawke Calendar@KCParent.com Copy Editor Susan Crainshaw Susan@KCParent.com Distribution To be added to our distribution list, e-mail Distribution@KCParent.com

LOCAL CONTENT

Local Contributing Writers Bill Bartlett (Belton), Jennifer Bosse (Kansas City), Jennifer Duxbury (Olathe), Tisha Foley (Belton), Lauren Greenlee (Olathe), Jessica Heine (Olathe), Rebecca Ishum (Kansas City), Megan Kapple (Kansas City), Kristina Light (Kansas City), Stephanie Loux (Olathe), Laura McEachen (Overland Park), Christine Shuck (Kansas City), Tori Walker (Kansas City),

Mailing Address 11936 W. 119th #335, Overland Park, KS 66213 913.782.3238 phone • 913.681.5139 fax OUR PRODUCTS FREE | April 2015 | KCParent.com | Since 1985

kansas city’s #1 attraction guide

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kcgoingplaces.com

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baby&

FREE April-June 2015 KCParent.com Since 2002

maternity

Where you find family, you will find us.

500+

the

Ways to explore KaNsas CIty

save $$$

working the waddle

labor & delivery

why exercise is important during pregnancy

what to expect

issue

during delivery

18+

pages of camps galore! tips to get kids to

listen

the 1st time!

tips and tricks

tummy time

for the labor coach

babies don’t like it, but it is important!

(hint: don’t bring fast food)

spectacular views cool penguin adventures savoring local wines free fun for all ages tastiest BBQ in KC love it or leave it KC moms share “must have” and “don’t bother with” baby items kcgoingplaces.com

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.com

Enter to win KC Parent’s

lmost two years ago, a writer and I met for coffee and to catch up.

During our conversation she mentioned something called Stitch Fix for which she had received a gift card. It’s a service that sends clothing items and accessories to your home based on a very detailed style profile you complete. I was intrigued and went home and Googled it to learn more. I signed up for it that night.

This month I will receive my 17th “fix.”

I guess you could say I am addicted. It is so fun to have a package delivered each month with goodies that have been chosen specifically for me.

Subscription boxes have exploded in popularity. You can get almost anything delivered to you on a regular basis. From kids craft activities to snacks to meal prep to hygiene items, there is a subscription service for everyone and just about everything. As a matter of fact, we recently got my dad a subscription to Dollar Shave, which delivers him a month’s supply of razors. Have you caught the craze? Check out Laura McEachen’s article on pg. 16 and drop me a line to let me know which service you are into. I may just find a new fave!

Do you love the library? My husband is what I would call a library-aholic! I think he goes every day. From movies to books to CDs, there is something for everyone.

Our resident library-aholic, Kristina Light, shares why she loves our libraries on pg. 44.

And, because April is the month in which we focus on going green, what’s more green than borrowing books and movies from the library? For more ways to go green, check out Lauren Greenlee’s article on pg. 46.

Publisher Michael Gimotty Michael@KCParent.com

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

Member of:

Circulation verified by:

Happy spring, Kansas City!

Margaret Sarver, Editor

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

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

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

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KC Parent Wins Big! We’re thrilled to share that at the recent Parenting Media Association (PMA) awards ceremony, KC Parent received 3 awards! PMA presented 300 Editorial and Design Competition and General Excellence awards at a banquet at the Annual Convention in Baltimore, MD. There were 630 entries submitted in the competition. Editorial and Design Awards Competition recognizes excellence in journalism, photography and design achieved by publishers, editors, writers and designers at member publications.

november

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

CALENDAR

BACK TO SCHOO L It’s August, and kids all over the metro are preparing to head back to school. The KC Parent back-to-school guide has you covered to make the most of the upcoming year. From tips for a fantastic first day to terrific ideas for fun once the bell rings, we’ll help you rock this year!.

table of contents

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, UNION STATION!

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

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celebrate

shop

party

watch

stroll

Union Station’s Centennial Celebration continues! Enjoy tons of familyfriendly events on Nov. 1 and 2, including face painting, balloon animals, activity booths, music and more!

UnionStation.org

Get great books at bargain prices at the Big Fall Kids Book Sale at the Central Resource Library Nov. 13-15.

Most items are under $1. A terrific way to add to your home library.

913.492.4791

Nikita is turning 8 and the Kansas City Zoo is having a polar-sized party to celebrate!

Sign a card and enjoy cake to help wish him a Happy Birthday!

KansasCityZoo.org

Fireworks set to music light up the sky at the annual Christmas in the Sky on Nov. 26 at Longview Lake Park. After, drive through the Christmas in the Park light display.

816.503.4860

Enjoy a stroll through the Nelson-Atkins Luminary Walk on Nov. 28. Paul Mesner puppets, luminaries throughout the Sculpture Garden and fireside cocoa and concoctions. Free.

Nelson-Atkins.org

kcparent.com november 2014

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Gold Medal Winner for the Calendar of Events

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Fantastic First Day

36

Less Stress Planner

38

Pencil Creatures

39

School Lunches

40

Smart Start

42

Morning Routines

44

Back to Savings

46

Carpool Time

48

After School Fun

50

How Was School?

51

Gather the Outcasts

kcparent.com august 2014

Gold Medal Winner

for the August Back-to-School section

PARENTING MEDIA ASSOCIATION

2015 Silver Award Winner Digital Media Awards Competition

Silver Medal Winner for Best Website

kcparent.com april 2015

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CRAFTCORNER

Materials Needed: White construction paper Watercolors or acrylic paint Crayons

Van Gogh inspired paintings Explore art history with your little artist at home by creating a painting inspired by Van Gogh’s “Starry Night.” Kids of all ages can make one, and it’s a great way to sneak in some educational activities at home while they get in touch with their artsy side.

Black construction paper Paintbrushes Glue

Step One: Begin by showing your child a picture of Van Gogh’s “Starry Night.” Talk about shapes, colors and textures that you observe in the painting.

Step Two: With a white or yellow crayon, draw some swirls and circles on the white construction paper. Look at the original “Starry Night” painting and have your child try to create some of the same shapes in the sky on his paper. He also can make a moon and stars.

Step Three: Using watercolor or watered down acrylic paint, paint over the entire paper with dark blue or purple.

The crayon should show through the paint.

Step Four: Cut a silhouette landscape out of black construction paper. It could be a simple wavy line to resemble hills, or an older child could cut out a more complex city scene. Glue the black silhouette onto the bottom of the sky painting.

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

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Get a second opinion

2

Find the right doctors

4

Make a confident decision

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creating (and sticking to) a

Visit KCParent.com for a list of great books to read before bed.

4. Encourage Self-Soothing: Sleep

bedtime routine

a

few months ago, my husband and I were pulling all-nighters and not in a fun or even semi-productive way. After finally getting our 2-year-old to sleep in his own bed, I enjoyed approximately a week of decent sleep before my 4-year-old began balking at the idea of bedtime. Consistency in our bedtime routine was top priority. I didn’t understand what else I could do to ensure that the entire Bosse family returned to peaceful slumber. After some trial and error, online research and feedback from other parents, however, I can confidently say that we’ve eradicated our son’s sleep issues. If you’re currently suffering from child-induced sleep deprivation, here are six tips to getting a better night’s sleep all-around.

1. Consistency: According to a 2009 article in the journal Sleep, consistency improved sleep in children with mild to moderate sleep problems. It also provides children with a sense of security. Tonganoxie mom of four Meghann Gehl says, “We eat dinner around 5:30. Then baths start at 7, from youngest to oldest. They brush their teeth, and then I read an age-appropriate

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book to each of them, starting with the youngest and working my way through until they’re all in bed. I think a schedule is so important for kids. They know what’s expected, so it helps them settle down and go to sleep easier.”

2. Eat: If your child is waking up each night restless or complaining of stomach pain, it’s possible he isn’t getting enough to eat during the day. A small snack before bedtime, such as cereal with milk, fruit, string cheese or some crackers, will give him just enough to properly fill up without overdoing it. An overly full stomach also can interfere with sleep.

3. Limit Screen Time: According to “Bedtime Blues: How to Get Children to Sleep” on TheGuardian.com, exposure to bright light, which includes most screens— however small—will halt production of melatonin and prevent sleep. Even a few minutes of exposure can throw off bedtime by as much as two hours. Avoid allowing children access to TV, computers, tablets or mobile phones at least an hour before bed.

If a nightlight is needed, it should be dim or red. Our brains are less sensitive to red light.

disorder specialist Professor Paul Gringas says, “Don’t do anything at bedtime that you’re not prepared to do five times a night, including at 3:00 a.m.” I found that not allowing my 4-year-old to bring a cup of milk with him to bed greatly curtailed his incessant waking throughout the night. If possible, you should also try to avoid sitting with your child until he falls asleep. We got into a bad habit of lying with our youngest each night until he fell asleep. When he woke at midnight and 2:00, he wouldn’t go back to sleep unless we lay down with him again. Not only did it impact his sleep, it took a big toll on ours as well. Now, we lie with him for a few minutes at bedtime and that’s it. It has helped a lot.

5. Soft Music: Studies have shown that continuous, softly played music can not only help children fall asleep, it also can make it easier for them to fall back asleep if they wake up during the night.

6. Be Firm: Don’t be afraid to be firm either. My boys are at the stage where they ask for “one more thing.” They want an extra hug and kiss, another book or suddenly become very thirsty. It’s a ploy to stay up just a little longer. I won’t turn down a request for extra love, but I do curb the incessant need for a drink or one last book. Calmly reiterating the bedtime rules will keep it consistent.

It’s important to remember that all children are different. Some require more or less sleep than the average. Some are night owls, while others can fall asleep much earlier in the evening. The key lies in assessing the specific needs of your child and creating a routine that suits both of you.

With a little tweaking, you, too, will be on your way to a better night’s sleep.

Jennifer Bosse lives in Kansas City with her husband and two sons. Thanks to a better bedtime routine, her family is once more sleeping soundly.

HEALTHYKIDS

S

nacking is inevitable, but healthy snacking is possible. Here are some fun, easy and healthy snacks to pass the time between meals.

Hummus and sliced veggies:

Hummus has a nutty flavor that kids love and contains folate, vitamin B6 and iron.

Yogurt and fruit: Yogurt contains dairy and protein, and the fruit can be either fresh or frozen depending on the season (berries are a favorite due to the antioxidants).

Peanut butter: Peanut butter is full of protein and healthy fat. Combine that with a banana or apple and you have a sweet and healthy snack.

Cheese and pretzel: Cheese is full of dairy, healthy fat and calcium, and what child doesn’t love a salty pretzel for some added carbohydrates?

Cottage cheese and pears: Pears are full of fiber and available year-round. Canned pears are also a great healthy option (pick the ones canned in juice, not syrup). Cottage cheese is packed with calcium and protein.

Smoothies: Kids go crazy over these drinks! They are easily adaptable to fit any

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smart snacking taste buds and healthy, easily fulfilling two to three servings of fruit and filled with fiber. Use nonfat yogurt to add some protein and calcium or use 100 percent orange juice as the base. Add a banana and fresh or frozen fruit mixed in a blender to make a delicious, easy snack.

Trail mix: Many pre-made trail mixes are a healthy option, or you can create your own.

Pick your child’s favorite dried fruit and nuts, then be creative. Add popcorn, Chex Mix, pretzels, animal crackers, the options are endless! Nuts contain many minerals such as magnesium, iron and zinc.

Whole-grain waffles: Waffles are full of iron and vitamins B6, B12 and A. Top with reduced fat cream cheese or fruit jelly for a delicious snack.

Meat and cheese roll-ups: Choose a low-fat, low-sodium meat and combine with cheese. Or roll the deli meat around a cheese stick. High in protein, healthy fat and calcium.

French fries: Yes, you read that right!

Make your own with a combination of sweet potatoes and baking potatoes. Slice them or cut them into wedges, toss lightly in olive oil and bake at 400 degrees for approximately 20 minutes.

Healthy snack options for your family are not only possible, but easy and fun as well. Let your children get involved with the “cooking” process and enjoy the fruits of your labor together.

Jessica Heine is a labor and delivery nurse.

She resides in Olathe with her family.

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

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think inside the box exploring the rapidly growing subscription box service trend

W

hen I began researching this article, I had no idea how many subscription services were out there. I discovered that there are more than 600 different subscription box services, and that number is continuing to grow! Numerous websites, YouTube videos, blogs and discussion boards are dedicated to listing, reviewing and rating the various services. I also learned a new word, curation, which in this field means the choosing, gathering, organizing and presenting of a collection of products.

Why are these services becoming so popular? The theories abound. You might remember the old school “book/fruit/ wine/cheese/CD of the month” clubs that all but disappeared. One theory is that no one gets anything fun in the mail anymore.

When was the last time you received a surprise package or even a handwritten birthday card? Retail brick and mortar stores are disappearing because so many shoppers choose the convenience of on-line shopping. Individuals without access to major retail outlets can have a high-end personal shopper experience via the post office. People are busy—too busy even to shop. Subscribing and forgetting about it is so easy. More and more consumers are practicing “retail awareness,” conscious consumption of local, handmade, ecologically responsible products, and numerous subscription service options cater

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to this ideal. Still other subscribers cite value for the appeal of the subscriptions. You can receive items valued at two to five times the price of the subscription. Plus, having someone else narrow choices down for you can be a welcome change of pace.

people are busy— too busy even to shop. subscribing and forgetting about it is so easy.

One local mom says that she enjoys Birchbox, a popular beauty sample subscription service, because it lets her try products she wouldn’t know about otherwise without paying for a full-size item. In fact, Birchbox is credited with pioneering the subscription box trend in 2010, and it still remains in the top as far as popularity, up there with other beauty and lifestyle sample subscription services Ipsy and POPSUGAR. Target and Wal-mart have even joined in the trend with monthly box offers.

The most popular women’s clothing service is Stitch Fix, which our KC Parent editor, Margaret Sarver, looks forward to each month. It charges a $20.00 styling fee, which is credited toward your purchase if you choose to keep any of the items. You receive a 20 percent discount if you keep

all the items in your “fix.” You indicate your style and size preferences, then receive a package of clothing and accessories to try on at home. Expect to pay $30.00-80.00 per clothing item on the low/medium price range. Users love that an information card comes with each item telling you what pairs best with it. Other clothing/ accessory services for women include Fabletics (fitness clothing), Golden Tote, Rent the Runway, Wantable Accessories and Wantable Intimates. There are also niche services for maternity wear such as Preggonista.

Babies and kids are an important demographic for subscription services.

For children’s clothing, FabKids is the most popular. You take a style quiz and receive a two-piece outfit for $29.95. Jessica Alba’s The Honest Company provides environmentally friendly diapers and baby supplies. Diaper Dabbler is a great gift for new parents that provides a sampling of a variety of diaper brands. Citrus Lane sends age-specific products such as toys for ages 0-5. Little Passports offer a glimpse into foreign cultures, and Kiwi Crate provides seasonal arts and crafts supplies.

Other ideas for kids: Little Pnut (toys), Koala Crate (hands-on learning activities for preschoolers), Tinker Crate (STEM activities for ages 9-14), Doodle Crate (DIY projects for ages 9 and up) and Pokecrate (for the Pokemon aficionado).

Food and snack boxes are understandably also very popular. If you love to cook but don’t like grocery shopping, services such as Blue Apron, Plated and Hello Fresh will deliver recipes and fresh ingredients. While not inexpensive, these services provide innovative meals that are usually a bargain compared to eating out, and they can definitely save you money if you head to the store to purchase ingredients for one meal and end up with a cart full of miscellany by the time you check out. Graze, Nature Box (lets you choose the items you want) and GrEAT Kids Snack Box (healthy snacks for kids) all offer tasty looking options.

Some of the more specific boxes I found were Phone Case of the Month, GoodMouth (toothbrushes), BlackSocks Sockscription (men’s dress socks), Mexican Candy Box, Think Soap and Tackle Grab (fishing lures).

Don’t like what you received? Swap it!

There are websites similar to eBay where you can swap subscription box products that didn’t work out. [Products offered in lots and items with the packaging intact will swap better].

Before committing to joining a service, search for coupons and special offers.

Most services offer discounts with a longer subscription period. Also, be sure to search for user reviews of the service. Common complaints include a long waitlist to join, difficulty in unsubscribing or returning items and that boxes have frequent repeats or too many lower-end items. The best way to determine whether you will like a subscription is to see what has been included in previous boxes.

Now, if there were just a service that would come and remove a box of carefully

chosen stuff from my house on a regular basis! If you find yourself in need of the opposite of a subscription box service, check out Donation Town, which connects you with local charities that offer free pickup service. Pickup Please will come collect items for donation to Vietnam Veterans of America. Locally, try KC Donation Pickup.

Laura Miller McEachen is a part-time attorney and full-time mommy. She enjoys shopping too much to let anyone else do it for her.

for more information: MySubscriptionAddiction.com – Everything you wanted to know about “small box retailing.” This comprehensive site lists all the services and includes descriptions, reviews and a swap marketplace.

SubscriptionBoxes.com – User reviews and ratings.

RamblingsOfASuburbanMom.com/monthly-subscription-boxes – Lists and describes a wide range of subscription box offerings.

MommySplurge.com – Lists of mom and baby subscription services and reviews.

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17

8 things

that i’ve learned as a mom of quadruplets

I

get asked fairly frequently what it’s like to raise quadruplets. While I don’t have anything to compare it to, I have learned a few things along the way!

1. Four of Everything Really Isn’t Necessary You don’t need four swings, ExerSaucers or four of every toy. It’s just not practical. Sure, there are some exceptions, but everything you think you “need” may not be totally conducive to a small house or a suddenly one-income family. Besides, learning how to share is a good thing!

2. Don’t Make Eye Contact and Don’t Stop Moving This is the very first thing that all quad parents learn. Whatever you do, do not stop moving when in public and try not to make eye contact with anyone. It’s really not about being rude. It’s about trying to preserve that family time and actually make it to the destination.

Once we stop moving, the questions from the public start, and we are stuck.

3. Everybody Is a “Quad” Expert I can’t tell you the number of times that someone has given me advice on how to parent my quads because they “know what it’s like.” Y’all, I have no idea what it’s like to raise singletons. I doubt you know what it’s like to raise quadruplets. As irritating as

18

kcparent.com april 2015

these conversations can be, it’s also a good reminder that I don’t know another mom’s situation and that giving my uninvited advice is probably not appreciated.

4. T here Is No Way to Avoid Making a Spectacle

hearing “Did you do IVF?” “Did you have help?” and “Were they natural?” Yes, it’s very frustrating and invasive, but people ask anyway. The only defense is to prepare the answer in advance and try to keep from being caught off guard.

If you have quadruplets, you will make a spectacle. No matter how quickly we try to sneak into the grocery store and back out with our little family of same-age kids, someone figures out what they are. And they like to tell everyone else in the store.

“Walking zoo exhibit in aisle 4!” When that happens, revert back to strategy number 4 on this list.

7. This Is Normal

5. P eople Are Going to Ask Dumb Questions

8. Give a Little Credit

You’ve heard the saying “There are no dumb questions.” Well, in my time as a quad mom, that statement has been proven false. I routinely get questions like “Were you trying for four?” or “Did you know there was more than one in there before they were born?”

As a quad mom you either want to laugh or cry. I choose to laugh, because otherwise the next 14 years are going to be very, very long.

6. M y Reproductive History Is Now Common Knowledge For some reason, everyone loses that social screen when they find out that I have quadruplets. I can’t go anywhere without

I think what most people don’t realize is that raising quadruplets is completely normal for me. My normal isn’t something I would have volunteered for, but now that I have it, I wouldn’t give it up! I think the lesson that I learned here is to embrace the challenges because there is a sense of peace, belonging and “rightness” on the other side.

People wonder how I do it. I don’t. We do it. I’ve realized that there is no possible way on earth that I could handle this level of responsibility myself. I try to regularly remind my husband how thankful the kids and I are to have him as our support. It’s okay that I can’t do this by myself. Our family is better off having a team that works together to get us to the end of the day.

Rebecca Ishum lives in South Kansas City with her husband, Sean, and their 4-yearold quadruplets: Elizabeth, Elijah, Caleb and Abigail,. You can read more about their parenting adventures at ABeautifulRuckus.com.

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19

MEDIAMIX

two for middle-grade readers...

The Zero Degree Zombie Zone

By Patrick Henry Bass Illustrations by Jerry Craft Best for: Ages 8-12

toddlers to tiaras

new picture books offer lessons in behavior

By McGeath Freeman Glamourpuss

By Susan Hood

By Sarah Weeks

Illustrated by Mary Lundquist

Illustrated by David Small

Best for: Ages 3-8

Best for: Girls, ages 3-8

What’s good: Bright and lively illustrations

match the upbeat and positive approach to this new baby story.

What’s bad: Thin on emotional substance to actually help children cope with an expanding family.

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kcparent.com april 2015

What’s good: Bakari’s first-person narration is witty and fast-paced.

Mission: New Baby

It’s Mission Impossible for soon-to-be siblings.

Accepting a new baby into the family can be a very emotional and difficult thing for many children. Hood alleviates the concerns with redirection. She offers a mission: “Train the new kid on the team.” It’s a big job but someone has to do it. Hood breaks it down into 16 assignments. One of my favorites is Number 8, “Set Up Communication Systems,” which shows agents informing parents what their new agent needs, from food to diapers. That’s right, there is age-appropriate potty humor in this one. Number 11, “Blend In,” adds a little humor as well, when the two agents practice camouflage techniques around the house. This is a fun approach to the subject of expanding families.

If you accept that there’s more to a person (or pet) than what’s on the surface, you’ll get the basic gist of this tale. Glamourpuss is a much pampered kitty. She belongs to the Highhorsens, a couple of gazillionaires with no children.

Glamourpuss knows that she’s special and has no problems showing everyone around her. Her world is turned upside down when Bluebelle, a nouveau Chihuahua, comes to visit. Bluebelle steals all the attention in the room with her classicmovie-referencing antics. Battling through their repertoire of emotions, both pets eventually accept each other as friends.

What’s good: Fantastic illustrations

and humor.

What’s bad: No recognizable lesson for children to learn.

Fourth-grader Bakari Katari Johnson probably thought the biggest problem he would face at school was running for hall monitor against his classmate Tariq. But then he finds a magical ring and gets sucked through a portal to the “Zero Degree Zombie Zone.” Now Bakari has to figure out how to save the world from an evil zombie ruler before the end of the school day. He may even have to work with his class rivals to succeed.

What’s bad: The plot is pretty typical

of this style of story, but the character diversity is nice to see.

The Case of the Vanishing Emerald: The Mysteries of Maisie Hitchins

By Holly Webb Illustrated by Marion Lindsay Best for: Ages 9-12 Maisie Hitchins is a pint-sized amateur sleuth that middle-grade readers may just grow to adore. She has the needed mettle to see a case through, no matter where it leads. Her newest case leads to the theater, where Maisie takes a job backstage as a dresser to discover who stole a priceless–and cursed–emerald necklace. Before long, things get very strange, but with help from her ever-loyal dog, Eddie, Maisie manages to put all the pieces together.

What’s good: Fun, theatrical setting and intriguing characters.

What’s bad: Experienced middle-

grade mystery readers may feel let down by the formulaic plot.

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rainy day fun

As winter ends and spring finally arrives, parents still face entertaining their kids indoors on the stuck-inside rainy days.

Depending on your child’s interests, there are still plenty of activities to keep him entertained for the day, both at home as well as around the area. I find it handy to keep a list of activities to turn to when I need some inspiration.

arts & crafts If your child enjoys arts and crafts, try doing something exciting like finger painting with pudding or colored yogurt, painting animal crackers or experimenting with baking soda and different colored vinegar. We like to use measuring spoons, syringes, droppers and spray bottles for our vinegar.

sensory play Let the kids experience different textures such as playing with dry beans, dry pasta, water beads, shaving cream, kinetic sand, dish soap bubbles or even water and ice! Another idea would be to turn off the lights and have fun with flashlights.

technology Especially if you’ve had a few days of being stuck inside and screen time is generally limited at your home, this can be a good time to increase time and make it more of a treat. Bonus points if it’s educational!

get outside Embrace the rain and head outdoors! Have a special umbrella or rain boots waiting as a surprise gift to brighten a gloomy day and help kids experience the rain through all their senses. There is a big puddle in our street that I let my kids splash in if it’s warm enough and there are no cars around. They love it!

games Teach young children how to play Old Maid or Candy Land or play one of your older child’s favorite board games with her for a while. Playing together will be something kids remember. (Hint: Set a timer if you need an escape route.)

There are also plenty of kid-friendly Minute to Win It type games on Pinterest to play together, as well as the classics hide and go seek and Simon says!

exercise Kids will always have energy to burn no matter the weather situation, so look up some kids exercise videos, turn the music up and have a dance party, or set up an obstacle course. It doesn’t have to be fancy, and if you time them, they can keep trying to beat their old time or compete with a sibling.

baking Baking together involves science, math and art, as well as getting to eat a tasty treat together at the end! Just be prepared to have more of a mess with your “helpers!”

baths Have the kids take an impromptu and fun bath during the day with bath crayons, bath paints and random non-toy toys from around the house.

Allow youngsters to take a doll or toy in with them to give them a bath too.

Carlee Young, Overland Park mom of two, adds the idea of having an inside beach party! “My girls had a swimming/dance party today with bathing suits and goggles for them and their stuffed animals!”

forts/tents Give your kiddos permission to build a fort with couch cushions, pillows, blankets, etc., or bring out the pop-up play tents for the day.

cleaning Young children tend to think helping to clean is fun, and even if your children are older, they can still participate in some light housework when stuck inside. Have them wipe down the door knobs and light switches, wash windows, dust baseboards with socks, etc.

Stephanie Loux is the mom of soon-to-be-three little ones under 5 and writes from her home in Olathe.

22

kcparent.com april 2015

WORDFROMDAD

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“Ian, can I come into your room?� James stood outside Ian’s room and patiently waited for an answer.

I smiled when I heard. Social cues are important for any child, but for autistic children, hen they’re and very kindergardifficult to my critical daughter started she wanted to take her lunch learn. Anyten, progress is worth a mental “high onhad the second school. five.� James learnedday theofhard wayIthat packed a sandwich, yogurt and fruit it was better to use language to obtain what in her new lunch bag and then decided to add he wanted from Ian. Asking a special touch to let her know permission I was thinking avoided Ian’s fury at having hispiece refuge of her. I drew a flower on a small of paper, addedand some Xs andparental Os, put it in a baggie invaded dodged correction. so it “James, wouldn’twhere’s get messy slipped it into myand stick?�

Ian ran outher of lunch bag when she wasn’t looking. his room with his fists clenched, and I had I forgot all about the note until Kaelyn to head off the physical encounter. James marched out of school that afternoon. She wore just demonstrated use of social a had big smile and gave me ahis hug. “Thank youskills a few days earlier, and The nowmoment we werewe back for the flower!� she said. gotat home sheone. pinned it to entered the bulletin her square He had Ian’sboard roominand room. dad arrived home from work, takenWhen what her he wanted. one of the first things she told him was that Ian is no different. Although never a Mommy put a note in her lunch. morning one“aday he’ll getnote ready for “Well,�person, I thought, 10-second sure school prompting a calm made herwith day.�minimal And so our traditionafter began.

The next day I drew breakfast.

The next day,stick he’ll figures screamofat our James family, including the while cat and Kaelyn’ s beloved for looking at him they eat and every stuffed the Bigroutine Red Dog, slipped step ofClifford the morning is aand contest of it into her lunch bag. I wrote our names under wills. each figure, to help her learn to spell. She lovedBut, it. that’s life with children afflicted withKaelyn Autism Spectrum Disorder, or “inor takes her lunch at least three four days a week, and each day I put a little the spectrum� as insiders call it. Progress drawing in there for her.

It is fun for both of is never consistent, and lessons are never us. If she’s in the kitchen while I’m making her learned, at least not in the traditional sense. lunch, she makes it a point to hide her eyes Progress is not tracked in a smooth while I’m drawing the picture.

Peeking curve. would It’s aher seesaw spoil day. line of joyful successes and Sometimes Isetbacks. use a ballpoint pen; other heartbreaking If the achievements I use markers or crayons.

Sometimes KC times Baby Winter Proof 2009 outnumber the reversals for any one goal, we call it an accomplished milestone and Work For Yourself, not By Yourself! work on the next target while we hope Create a safer environment they don’t regress on the last. & income for your family! “Do you want the last Mom cookie?� I held out the works plate to Ian. from home!

He looked at the

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solitary cookie. “No, thanks. I want to save it for Mom.�

Another little success.

www.Moms4TheFuture.com

William R. Bartlett lives in Belton with his family.

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Kaelyn chooses the markers for me, and I must come up with a picture that will fit in with those particular colors. I always label the picture to help with her growing reading skills.

I have drawn balloons, ice cream cones, cats, butterflies, trees and smiley faces. On the day of the Belton Pirates homecoming game, I drew a football and a jersey.

I must say that I am not an artist, not even close. Stick figures are about as artistic as I get, and I am afraid that one of these days I will run out of things I can semi-draw.

One day I drew a rainbow, and when Kaelyn got home I admitted that the colors were in the wrong order. She looked at me like I’d sprouted a third eye. “I thought it was the prettiest rainbow ever!� she said emphatically.

That was the last time I criticized my drawings in front of her.

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But I guess artistry is not really the point of our tradition. My simple drawings are meaningful to my daughter and are a way for us to bond. Each day she hangs the latest drawing on her bulletin board, and makes a point of showing them to family members and friends.

One day Kaelyn will be at that age when Mom’s lunch bag drawings are no longer cool, so I am cherishing these moments now.

Tisha Foley lives in Belton with her husband, daughter and son. She loves that her kids think she can draw.

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23

Tori and Sarah’s Kidney Adventure Tori Walker and donor, Sarah.

Sept. 22, 2013. A day I will never forget.

The day the kidney adventure began.

After losing 40 pounds unintentionally and having extreme fatigue, I completed a physical exam and lab work. Three days later, I was relieved to be feeling better. Then, the phone rang.

My husband, Tom, handed me the phone, saying, “It’s Dr. Harrington.” I responded, “Oh, this is not good.” Indeed it was not!

Dr. Harrington informed me that my blood work was extremely abnormal and I should proceed immediately to the emergency room where I was diagnosed with acute renal failure.

What a shock! In seemingly a moment, I went from being a lifelong healthy person to having a kidney biopsy, blood transfusion, placement of chest and stomach ports, initial dialysis treatments and regular blood draws. Thus began what I dubbed “the kidney adventure.”

On July 28, 2014, after approval as a transplant candidate, I posted this poem on Central Nazarene Church’s Facebook page.

Are You the One? In September of 2013, I began an adventure anew, I found out some startling news that really made me feel blue.

My kidneys decided to totally flunk, They’re pretty much now just useless junk, Daily dialysis helps me survive, But I really need a kidney transplant to thrive.

So, if you would like to slightly risk your life, To give me a kidney, go under the knife.

And if you’ve been thinking you’re needing some pain, And a few weeks of misery that is quite insane.

Then, you’re the one. Yes, this is the clincher...

You’re invited to join my kidney adventure!

24

kcparent.com april 2015

Sarah’s Turn As an intensive care trauma nurse, the subject of organ donation was a familiar one, but it wasn’t until a few months ago that it became real to me. Tori and I had just met at Vacation Bible School mid-July. A week later, Tori’s poem caught my attention because it was smart and witty and when it ended with a request for a kidney, I was shocked. Renal failure, dialysis, blood transfusions and multiple lab sticks—I was familiar with those nursing terms, but her having such a debilitating diagnosis as a mom of three young children humbled me. I messaged her and quickly contacted the Transplant Institute at Research Medical Center. I was told there were multiple people in the process, but I scheduled a lab draw anyway.

Tori’s Turn I always believed 100 percent that I would have a living donor.

(Living donation kidneys usually work immediately and last longer than a deceased donor’s kidney). Lots of people love me, and I knew someone would step up. I didn’t expect it to be a brand new friend!

I was so grateful for Sarah’s willingness to engage in this adventure with me. We anxiously awaited results of her lab draw.

Sarah’s Turn Several weeks later, I got the call. I was a match! After a conversation with my amazing husband, Michael, we continued testing.

Some wondered, “Why in the world would you do something like this for someone you barely know?” I wanted to do something BIG for God, something that would be a testimony and witness of my faith. I feel like most people have a deep desire to know their life matters. People want to know that the accumulation of works and accomplishments in their lifetime will last and have an impact on the future. Donating a kidney was an amazing experience for

me that was an extension of my life that I hope will have a lasting impact for years to come.

Tori’s Turn I was humbled, astounded and immensely thankful that Sarah was willing to endure poking, prodding and pain on my behalf. Not only that, but she did it happily and willingly. I posted a follow-up poem—“She’s the One!”—to inform people of the exciting news!

It was a process of several months before we finally had a transplant date on the calendar and began counting down the days.

Feb. 11, 2015, the big day arrived. We had completed the final cross-match at Midwest Transplant Network and pre-op testing at Research Medical Center and were ready to go. I was nervous, but my faith in Christ, the support of my incredible husband and three daughters and the prayers of so many helped me to have a sense of peace.

The transplant went off without a hitch. My new kidney was pretty and pink, according to Dr. Murrillo, and began working immediately. It was truly a miracle. After four days of posttransplant pain and recovery, Sarah was discharged on Valentine’s Day, which also happened to be National Donor Day. I went home the following day.

Sarah’s Turn Throughout the process, I had people ask me, “Do you ever wish you had never started this?!” I could honestly tell them, “No.” As a mother who spends the week at home with young children, I struggle with moments of doubt as I occasionally wonder how my plans of travel nursing and an advanced degree turned into diaper duty and full-time pacifier wrangling. Donating my kidney to Tori gave me a passion and renewed purpose. It was an incredible opportunity to become a part of something bigger than myself. This has been one of the most incredible experiences of my life, and it reminds me that there are numerous opportunities that have the power to change the course of life or perhaps the life of another.

Donation Facts:

• People in Kansas waiting for a kidney: 460 • People in Missouri waiting for a kidney: 1,433 • People in Kansas waiting for a liver: 135 • People in Missouri waiting for a liver: 233 • Average wait time for donor kidney: 4-5 years • Average wait time for donor liver: 2-3 years • People across the United States waiting for an organ donation: 125,844

In 2014, Midwest Transplant Network (which represents Kansas and the western two-thirds of Missouri) had more than 200 organ donors and more than 1,000 tissue donors.

You can be a living donor. The most common donations are a kidney or part of a liver, but you also can give a lung or part of a lung and/or part of the pancreas or intestines.

To be a living donor for a relative, friend or even a stranger, contact Midwest Transplant Network (MWTN.org).

You also can bless others with your organs when you no longer need them.

Visit OrganDonor.com to sign up! Also, let your family know your intentions. Your organ donation can help save the lives of up to eight people. One tissue donor can save or enhance the lives of more than 50 people. One cornea donor will give people the gift of sight. In theory, if you are an organ, eye and tissue donor, you can help save and heal the lives of more than 60 people!!

Tori’s Turn What a life-changing experience! God was so close to us throughout this journey. We are so appreciative of the donations, prayers, meals, gifts, cards and wonderful care at Lenexa DaVita Dialysis Center and Research Medical Center. My family and I are forever grateful for Sarah’s sacrificial gift, which inspires me to make the most of each day and to constantly look for opportunities to be a blessing to others.

Feb. 11, 2015: Another day I will never forget. The day a new friend gave me new life.

Tori Walker lives in Kansas City with her family.

kcparent.com april 2015

25

Special Advertising Section

Interactive Education Guide available at KCParent.com

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Camp Guide

Camellot Academy Camellot Academy is a five-week long performing arts camp for children age 5 thru 9th grade located at Rockhurst High School. Campers experience daily classes in drama, dance, art, guitar and voice, culminating in the performance of a fulllength musical the final week. This summer’s musical is Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. Camp runs June 8th – July 11th/M-F 9 a.m. – 3p.m. (half & full day options).

Come join us! For more information visit www.CamellotAcademy.com. See display ad on pg. 30.

Camp Shakespeare Camp Shakespeare is a unique summer arts experience that your kids will never forget! Students will improve their understanding of literature and renaissance times and CREATE their own version of a Shakespearean play. Acting, visual art, dance, and stage combat all come together in this delightful camp, taught by theatre professionals in a neighborhood near you! Available for ages 5 -18. Camp dates vary per location. One, two and three

week camps available, June -August. Costs between $125 - $415. Locations: Brookside, Overland Park, Lee’s Summit, Leawood, Kansas City, Kansas, Independence. See display ad on pg. 31. www.KCShakes.org.

Camp Special Beginnings Make this a summer to remember at Camp SB! We offer two different summer camps: Junior Camp Special Beginnings for Kindergarten graduates – 2nd grade at 10210 Pflumm Rd AND Senior Camp Special Beginnings for 3rd graders -6th graders 11300 W. 103rd, OP (inside Holy Spirit School and within blocks of Junior Camp). Summer theme for Junior Camp: Exploring Around the World Summer theme for Senior Camp: Camp SB LIVE! Full time/Part time/Temporary schedules.

913.634.7060. See display ad on pg. 34 for free registration (new families only).

Contact: Treva@specialbeginningsonline. com www.SpecialBeginningsOnline.com

Ceramic Cafe

British Soccer Camp is the most popular camp in the country. With an innovative curriculum that develops skills and confidence in players of all ages, British Soccer provides players with the opportunity to receive high-level soccer coaching from a team of international expert’s right in their own community. In Addition to teaching new skills each camp provides lessons in character development, cultural education and is the most fun your child can have this summer! See display ad on pg. 37. www.ChallengerSports.com

Christian Youth Theater ACT. SING. DANCE. LIVE! CYT Kansas City offers a variety of fantastic summer theatre camps all across the KC metro area, sure to delight your aspiring young actor! Half and full day camps include “Disney Clubhouse” (ages 4-5), “Kids on Broadway” and “Disney Hits” (ages 5-12).

Xtreme camps (ages 10-16) include “Marvel Comics,” “Dr. Who,” “The Hobbit,” “Monster Camp” and “Camp Willy: Macbeth.”

Overnight camps include “All Shook Up” (ages 12-14) and “Urinetown” (ages 14-19), with 4 full-length performances July 24-26 at the Bell Center at MNU. Visit www.CYTKC.org or call 913.681.3318 for all the details! See display ad on pg. 35.

Ceramic Cafe’s summer program provides instruction in a variety of ceramic art

Visit the redesigned KCParent.com featuring a geo-based, searchable Camp Guide with maps, descriptions, photos and videos.

26

kcparent.com april 2015

continued on page 28

CAMPGUIDE Culture House Spend your summer at The Culture House!

Our 2015 summer programs include dance, theater, music and art ... all taught by professionally trained adults. “Anything Goes” (ages 13-19), “Disney’s Mulan” (ages 9-12), “Disney’s Alice in Wonderland” (ages 6-9), Art Camps, Best of Broadway, Annie & Oliver, Princess Ballet, Hip Hop, Minion Mania, A Frozen Adventure, Let’s Make a Movie & more! PLUS our summer production of “Into the Woods” (ages 8-adult)! Openings limited!

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

i9 Sports THREE FULL DAY MULTI-SPORT CAMPS (AGES 4-12): Camps take place indoors and outdoors, and include FLAG FOOTBALL, SOCCER, BASKETBALL, T-BALL & OTHER SPORTS! We use FUN drills and scrimmages, and teach daily lessons on sportsmanship. Instructors are experienced working with youth and

playing sports, along with having FUN while igniting a passionate for sports.

Instructor ratio is 1:10. Visit www.i9sports. com or call 913.904.0810. SAVE $10 with code “KC Parent”. See display ad on pg. 31.

Jacomo Day Camp Jackson County Parks + Rec has been making memories for boys and girls ages 6 to 13 since 1977 at the Jacomo Day Camp. Activities include swimming canoeing, kayaking, archery, fishing, hiking, nature, science, games, crafts, and field trips. Weekly themes add to the adventure. Children can register for one week of outdoor fun or for the whole summer.

Extended hours are offered for working parents. See display ad on pg. 31. 816.229.8980 www.MakeYourDayHere.com/daycamp

Johnson County Park & Recreation District From Outdoor Discovery to Just for Fun, we offer over 60 safe and well-supervised camp programs conveniently located throughout

For ages 9–13

continued on page 30

in action

Enroll today 816.751.1art nelson-atkins.org

Now enrolling Summer Camp Ages 5 to 7 8 and up

A great place to create!

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

4525 Oak Street, Kansas City, Missouri 1

Since 1926, Kanakuk has provided an intentional partnership with families to provide fun experiences and spiritual training for their children. Kanakuk is a premier summer camp for boys and girls ages 6-18 years located in Missouri.

Kids have a blast with friends their age participating in over 70 activities, sports and amazing themed parties. Directed by president Joe White, the full-time and

summer is a great time to create!

For Ages 3 to Adult

kcparent.com

Kanakuk Kamps

C A M P ar t

FUN

april 2015 28NelsonAtkins_KCParent_Apr2015_FIN.indd

Johnson County. Dedicated to providing activities that promote emotional, intellectual and physical health, our summer fun choices include nature and science, preschool enrichment, arts and crafts, sports training, computers, leadership development, and music, theatre and dance. The options include both indoor and outdoor programs, and full and partial day schedules are available. For details, call 913.831.3359 or visit www.jcprd.com/ activities/camps.cfm. See display ad on pg. 40.

www.ceramiccafekc.com 2/24/15 5:18 PM

PLAN AHEAD WITH OUR SUMMER PROGRAMS FOR AGES 3-14 SUMMER PROGRAMS 2015 Classes are designed to provide your child with excellent ballet training and superior attention from our professional teachers, all while having fun. Classes begin June 1.

PROGRAMS INCLUDE: • Creative Movement ages 3-5

• Fairy Princess, Frozen & Cinderella and Swan Lake Camps ages 3-8

Union Station

Johnson County 5359 W. 94th Terr.

Prairie Village, KS (95th & Nall)

Nall Ave.

5

Broadway

Downtown Bolender Center 500 W. Pershing Rd. Kansas City, MO

I-3

Photographer Brett Pruitt & East Market Studios

• 2-4 Week Ballet Camps ages 7-14 94th Terr.

W. 95th St.

Pershing Rd.

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

Weekly Camps for EVERY SCHEDULE EVERY AGE • EVERY BUDGET EVERY INTEREST AREA

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EXTENDED CARE AVAILABLE

Enroll Online

Ma y 26

15 – July 31, 20

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kcparent.com april 2015

29

CAMPGUIDE summer staff are committed to developing dynamic Christian leaders. Included in tuition, each Kamper receives an agespecific devotional book for use at Kamp and at home through the year. See display ad on pg. 9. www.Kanakuk.com

KampOut-Kanakuk KampOut is a high energy, non-stop excitement, traveling day camp experience from Kanakuk! Every KampOut Kamper will see and hear that God is a loving Father and wonderful Creator who loves them and desires for us to love others. Boys and girls from 6 - 12 years old will learn to select good friends and be a good friend because Jesus loved us first. See display ad on pg. 38. www.ComeToKamp.com

Kansas City Ballet Kansas City Ballet School Summer Programs include once-a-week classes and four-day ballet camps for children age 3-8.

Camp themes include Fairy Princesses,

Frozen, Cinderella and Swan Lake.

Additional courses and workshops available for ages 8-14. Classes begin June 1st. Enroll today to guarantee your child’s spot. Two convenient locations: Downtown and Johnson County. See display ad on pg. 29.

For more information visit www.KCBallet. org or call 816.931.2299.

Kansas City Zoo Make your summer a little wilder with Zoofari Adventures Summer Camp. Camp runs June 1 through August 7. Your animal enthusiasts will get the inside scoop about the Zoo’s creatures. A typical camp week includes on ground tour, behind the scenes tour, animal encounters/shows, science experiments, games, and crafts. Topics vary each week. Half day camps are available for ages 4-5, full day for ages 5-12. COST: ½ Day: $110, Full Day: $250, Aftercare (3:30pm-5:30pm): $15. 10% discount for FOTZ. See display ad on pg. 34. www.KansasCityZoo.org

KC Watersports Cool off with a day filled with fun on the water! KC Watersports offers Watersports Day Camp for all ability levels. Whether you have never tried wakeboarding, waterskiing, or wakeskiing before or if you ride every weekend we have a camp for you.

Camps are offered from 8:30am-3:00pm, Monday-Friday and age 7+ are welcome to join us. Find out more information at www.KCWatersports.com/day-camps or call 913.783.4300. See display ad on pg. 30.

The KCYA Community School of the Arts The KCYA Community School of the Arts (CSA) offers children performing and visual arts classes, camps and private instruction on the campus of St. Teresa’s Academy. Spring classes now forming. Summer Camps begin in June. Scholarships are available. 816.531.4022.

See display ad on pg. 33. www.KCYA.org

Kansas City’s Premiere Children’s Fine Arts Camp

Camellot Academy

Day Camps - Lessons - Surf Club Birthday Parties - Private Rentals New & Used Boats - 2 Cable Systems Fun Lake - Boat House Pizzeria Summer 2015 session:

June 8th thru July 11th Ages:

Rain-Proof, Heat-Proof Summertime Fun!

K - 9th Grade

paintglazeandfire.net

ENROLL NOW

Glass Fusion • Canvas Space CeramiCs • Clay Limited! mix & match sessions AGES to fit your schedule!! 6-12 KCP

127th & Metcalf, OPKS • 913-661-CLAY

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kcparent.com april 2015

CamellotAcademy.com

www.kcwatersports.com

Are your children sports-minded? Do they like to sing and play instruments? Have they dreamed of working at Google? The KU Edwards Campus is hosting a variety of summer camps for children who are interested in areas such as sports, music, science, engineering, math, technology and Chinese language and culture. All camps will take place at the Edwards Campus in Overland Park. Learn more about our camp offerings at www.EdwardsCampus.KU.edu/SummerCamps.

See display ad on pg. 39.

Nelson-Atkins “Camp out” this summer at the NelsonAtkins! Ages 6-13 can participate in art classes, make new friends and have many fun-filled activities led by camp counselors in full day, week-long camp sessions, July 20-August 7; 9 a.m. - 4 p.m., with an extended day option. Visits from “mystery

guests” (museum staff members who work with art every day) will occur throughout the week to give students “inside access” to the museum. Themes include ready, set draw! Castle adventures and Cartooning and Animation. See display ad on pg. 28.

816.751.1278. www.Nelson-Atkins.org

Paint, Glaze & Fire Ceramics & Coffee House Camp ARTRAGEOUS! Paint Glaze & Fire Ceramics & Coffee House is offering summer camp for its 18th season! Your child will learn new techniques and have fun creating art in our multi-medium camps (ceramics, clay, canvas & glass fusion). Class size is limited - sign up early! Check it out online and find more information as well as a registration form at www.PaintGlazeAndFire.net. For more information on these and many other fun and creative programs, visit the website. See display ad on pg. 30. 913.661.CLAY (2529).

HEART OF AMERICA SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL

shakespeare

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Spring Leagues Open for Registration!

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Flag Football, Soccer, T-Ball, Coach Pitch Baseball, Basketball, & Cheerleading Focus is on instruction, fun & good sportsmanship Only one day a week commitment with practices & games on the same day

Summer Leagues and Camps Open for Registration Too!

•

STAGE combat

ACTI NG DANCE & s t a g e C R A F T

June & July Ages: 5 - 18

ALL Sports on Tuesday evenings, starting June 16th

Multi Sport, All Day Summer Camps start June 23rd • Choose from three different week long camps

KCParent-2015_CampShakespeare_Ad.indd 1

1/27/15 10:04 AM

104,000

readers each issue of KC Parent Magazine

Did you know?

KCParent.com has a new look!

Check out the 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!

continued on page 38

Jacomo Summer Camp

at Kemper Outdoor Education Center Kids ages 6-13

for Summers Kids Never Forget!

SAVE $10

using code “KC Parent”!

Camp Shakespeare is a fun and unique summer arts experience your kids will never forget! Taught by professional actors in a neighborhood near you.

www.KCSHAKES.org 816-531-7728

32,967

unique visitors to the virtual camp guide in 2014

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

816-229-8980 • Jackson County Parks + Rec • MakeYourDayHere.com/daycamp

KU Edwards Campus

• Swimming • Canoeing • Archery • Fishing • Hiking • Theme Weeks • Arts & Crafts • Field Trips kcparent.com april 2015

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CAMPGUIDE

Camping in 1985 and 2015

PARENT M A YE A R S

GA

30 KC

Z I NE

19

85

–2 0

15

These girls give each other friendship bracelets, one of many traditions at Kanakuk in 1985 and today.

S

ummer camp has been a major part of childhood for millions of kids.

Some families have second and third generation campers who attend the same camps their parents and grandparents did. These families witness a lot of transformations at the camp over the years, as well as some of the same traditions.

Dianne Shadwick of Overland Park was a counselor at Camp Kanakuk, a Christian camp based in Branson, MO, for

Ages 6-12

several years in the 1980s. Her daughter, 23, and two sons, 21 and 17, have attended Camp Kanakuk every summer since their childhoods, either as campers or counselors.

The Shadwicks say many traditions at the camp have been preserved over the years, which provides a reassuring familiarity. One practice that has remained in place is the focus on a true camp experience by limiting exposure to the outside world. “When you’re at Kanakuk, they don’t let you

Enroll Today! Space is Limited!

Summer Camp 2015 Create. Explore. Experiment.

June 8– August 7 Become a Member & SAVE!

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

ScienceCity.com/SummerCamp

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kcparent.com april 2015

use your cell phone. You have no access to the outside world. There is no TV, no cell phone,� Dianne explains. “You are having a true camp experience, which I think is a great thing. The only communication you are having for that week or two is good oldfashioned letters.�

In recent years, one-way email has been introduced. Family members can send an email, which is then printed and given to the camper, but campers cannot send emails out.

The family has seen a lot of changes over the years, including the growth of the camp in the past couple of decades.

Another thing that is different is the way campers and counselors keep in touch with

Su er at Pembroke Hi

Our 13-week, action packed summer program provides a variety of athletic, enriching and academic classes while focusing on what summer is really about...having fun!

Now enrolling!

Open to all students.

w.pembrokehi.org

their peers once camp is over. The world has gotten smaller in that respect.

“Now in the age of computers and cell phones, that friendship is so much more accessible than when I was growing up.

Then it was letters and a corded phone,” Dianne says.

Social media also plays a large part in keeping camp friendships intact these days.

Dianne’s daughter, Mary Katherine, says, “Camp has become more of a yearround thing. That’s the whole reason I got Facebook in the first place, to keep up with camp friends. Camp is also able to reach out to us with podcasts, Instagram and camp updates.”

When she was a counselor, Dianne says, “It was truly more of a summer experience.

They did a thing called ‘winter trail,’ where they went around to different college campuses recruiting, so we did see them during the winter, but maybe only once.”

Food choices at summer camps have gotten more complex over the years, with many camps accommodating dietary

restrictions and food allergies. Mary The Shadwicks hope to continue the camp Katherine has first-hand experience with tradition with Dianne’s future grandchildren. this shift in kitchen operations.

The next generation of campers is certain to “I have Celiac, and gluten-free wasn’t a take part in new customs, as well as continue thing then. Nobody knew what that was, some of the old ones. and they told my mom I probably wasn’t going to be able to go to camp because they Tisha Foley lives in Belton with her husband couldn’t accommodate my dietary needs.” and two kids.

Dianne says her first thought was “There’s no way this child cannot have a great experience just because she has a dietary restriction. So I said I would take the brunt of the responsibility.”

At first, Dianne worked with the kitchen staff and packed Mary Katherine her own food so she could eat a gluten-free version of the same foods other campers did.

“Now, it’s a whole different ballgame,” Mary Katherine This group of “k says. “They have gluten-free options am memory in 1985 pers” created a fun kayak . and have expanded their menu.”

kcparent.com april 2015

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CAMPGUIDE

the camp around the corner: day camp

f

or 150 years, camp has been the natural extension of traditional education— an expanded learning environment that provides enrichment and a hands-on experiential education like no other. Experts agree that camp is essential to a child’s development—teaching life lessons such as leadership, teamwork, empathy, and problem-solving.

The most successful camp experiences occur when families and children work together to find a camp that best matches everyone’s needs. What about families who feel a sleep-away camp is not the right fit, but still want their child to experience all that camp has to offer? The answer may be right around the corner at a day camp.

Camp close to home — Perhaps a child is too young for resident camp, or perhaps scheduling does not allow for extended time away from home. Regardless of the reason, day camp is an excellent alternative.

ps & Safari Day Cam Zoo! e h t t a s p m a C r Summe For kids ages 4–15

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

So much to do — Day camps offer a wide range of programming and activities, from sports to arts to science and education.

Like resident camps, day camps offer teambuilding activities, leadership training and wilderness programs.

Keep those neurons pumping —

Research indicates that participation in intentional programs, like camp, helps reduce learning loss during summer months. Camp is the ultimate classroom, using experiences to teach problem-solving and skill-development.

Get those bodies moving — Camp provides children the opportunity to try new things and participate in humanpowered activities. According to surveys by both the Kaiser Family Foundation and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, an American child is six times more likely to play a videogame on any given day than to ride a bike. According to research conducted

Camp Special Beginnings

NOW ENROLLING FOR SUMMER

• Friends • Swimming • Laughter • Sports • Art • Parties • Smiles • Field Trips • Fun • Community Service • Great Memories!

Offering quality Christian care & education in Johnson County since 1989!

Mention this ad and receive FREE registration!

New families only

Junior Camp (K-2) 10210 Pflumm Rd. Lenexa

Visit kansascityzoo.org/camp for more details!

OPEN DAILY | kansascityzoo.org | 816.595.1234

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

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kcparent.com april 2015

Senior Camp (3-6) 11300 W. 103rd Overland Park

913.634.7060

www.specialbeginningsonline.com

by ACA, 63 percent of children who learn new activities at camp tend to continue engaging in these activities after they return home. This leads to continued physical exercise that lasts a lifetime.

Budget-friendly options — In certain

circumstances, day care expenses, including transportation by a care provider, may be considered dependent care services and paid with a CampParents.org/affording-camp. In addition, day camps may qualify for special tax incentives like child and dependent care tax credits.

Day camp is life-changing, providing growth and development through teachable moments, experiences, friendships and most importantly, fun.

questions to ask about camp cost What is the refund policy?

Refund policies vary greatly from camp to camp. Some refund for illness only, some will give a total refund prior to a certain date and some do not refund at all. Most camps will ask for a small non-refundable deposit at the time of application, which may or may not go toward the cost of tuition. It is important to know the refund policy before you send any money.

Is there financial assistance available?

Many camps offer camperships, partial or total subsidies of the tuition costs, but parents need to ask if they are available. Although they are usually awarded based on need, do not assume that you make too much to qualify. It is important to apply early.

What is included in the tuition?

Day camps will typically include transportation as part of their tuition. Resident camps may offer limited transportation, such as a van ride from a major local train station.

Other amenities to ask about are fees for special programs and trips, laundry service, camp canteen, special equipment that is required and service organization membership.

Also, ask the camp director if it is appropriate to send spending money with your child.

Are special discounts available?

For more information, visit CampParents.com. Or, follow the American Camp Association on Facebook and Twitter for helpful hints and camp information.

Often, camps will offer special discounts for such things as early registration, fullseason enrollment and enrollment of multiple family members. If more than one special discount applies, parents may only be able to take advantage of one.

Reprinted by permission of the American Camp Association

Half & Full Day Camps, ages 4-12 Xtreme & Overnight Camps, ages 10-19

WITH LOCATIONS ACROSS THE METRO! CYTKC.ORG 913.681.3318 kcparent.com april 2015

35

CAMPGUIDE

spend the summer giving back

I

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

lemonade stand: The old tried and true way to raise money was a big hit.

We hosted a stand and used everything we earned to help fund our activities throughout the week. It took an entire day but was extremely successful. And, with social media, we were able to spread the word to friends and family members.

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

school supply drive: We decided to collect school supplies to donate to Catholic Charities, which gives to families that aren’t able to afford school supplies.

We printed up flyers, attached them to grocery sacks and then went door to door through a few neighborhoods leaving the note and bags. On the notes, we said we’d be back around later in the week to collect the supplies. I did not anticipate the amount of supplies we’d collect—it took us an entire day to pick them all up and sort them!

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kcparent.com april 2015

pack a snack: We visited Harvesters

so appreciative of our help.

and learned about their BackSnack program, which provides a backpack with nutritious food for school children to take home over the weekend. The girls were able to practice packaging the snacks. It’s quite a process, and they sure have it down to a science! They also enjoyed learning about all of the kids all over the metro that are helped through this program.

And several people I spoke

bundle diapers: HappyBottoms is a

with mentioned that if you

diaper bank in Kansas City that works with different partners in the area to provide diapers to low income families. The girls and I spent a morning sorting and wrapping diapers into bundles. The organization also has this down to a science, and in no time we were pros! The diapers we sorted went to the Johnson County Christmas Bureau.

It was nice to know where the diapers we packed would end up!

Each place we visited was

aren’t able to give your time, monetary donations are always appreciated.

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

Each place we visited was so appreciative of our help. And several people I spoke with mentioned that if you aren’t able to give your time, monetary donations are always appreciated. It was a busy week, but it was time well spent with many life lessons learned.

KC Parent editor Margaret Sarver will miss co-op camp this summer.

To learn more about the places we volunteered, visit:

• CatholicCharitiesKS.org • Harvesters.org • HappyBottoms.org

A Theater Day-Camp for ages 3 years through 10th Grade.

Providing: excellence in theater performance depth of personal character lasting friendships

Come have fun and put on a show!

June 8 - June 26 135th & Quivira

did you know?

Have you heard of Icing Smiles?

(816) 536-2840 www.StageworX.org

I hadn’t until recently, and it’s such a wonderful way to bless a family with an ill child. Located in all 50 states and celebrating their fifth birthday, Icing Smiles was started to put a smile on the faces of children with life threatening diseases and their siblings.

Volunteers known as “sugar angels” provide a cake and often deliver the cake at no charge to families. To request a cake or to learn more about volunteering or helping out with Icing Smiles, visit IcingSmiles.org.

kcparent.com april 2015

37

CAMPGUIDE Pembroke Hill

5LIFE-CHANGING DAYS OF FUN!

LAUGH & LEARN FUNNY SKITS

THROUGH BIBLE STUDY

INFLATABLE JUMPERS

EXPERIENCE JESUS

AND WORSHIP!

SCALE THE ROCK WALL EURO BUNGEE | ARCHERY

Searching for a camp that allows your student to stay active, try new things, form life-long friendships and gain confidence?

Sounds like a job for Summer at Pembroke Hill! Designed to accommodate your family’s busy schedule, our program offers flexibility by allowing you to enroll in any of the weeks you choose. Open to the community, students ages 2-18 are able to participate in our comprehensive summer camp. See display ad on pg. 32. www.PembrokeHill.org

Sea Life Looking for a summer adventure that’s far from ordinary? Splash in to a world of adventure during our SEA LIFE Summer Camps! This opportunity is perfect for campers ranging in age from 8 - 12 years old. Guests who book their experience before May 1, 2015 will receive a free annual pass with paid summer camp session. For more information, please visit our website, www.VisitSeaLife.com/kansas-city. See display ad on pg. 53.

Science City Science City Summer Camp 2015 provides a fun, hands-on environment to explore exciting STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and math) topics. Campers ages 6-12 engage in life science, physical science, art and technology each week!

Space is limited! Camps run June 8-Aug 7, Monday through Friday, 9:00-5:00.

FREE early and late care available. $180/ week for Union Station members, $200/ non-members. For more information email Summer@UnionStation.org or call 816.460.2226. See display ad on pg. 32.

StageworX StageworX is a positive environment where kids can grow both on and off the stage. Our mission is to provide three things for every camper: rewards of excellence in theater performance, depth of personal character, and lasting friendships. We foster growth in theater training and performance by

38

kcparent.com april 2015

creating a balance between purposeful silliness and hard work. A show for family and friends at the end of camp allows campers to demonstrate what they have learned! 816.536.2840. See display ad on pg. 37. www.Stageworx.org

Summer at Barstow Summer at Barstow offers a unique and spectacular camp experience for children ages 3-14 in Academics, Sports, Arts and Enrichment. There are more than 400 programs in the visual and performing arts, science, technology and more! Summer at Barstow 2015 runs May 26 through July 31 with extended care available to all campers. Catalog available online now at www.BarstowSchool.org/summer.

Contact summer@barstowschool.org or 816.277.0445 for information or to request a catalog. Join us at Summer at Barstow and create smiles to last a lifetime! See display ad on pg. 29.

Overland Park 913.681.1141

Shawnee

913.543.6085

Lawrence

785.842.6284

Prairie Village 913.681.1141

Sylvan Learning Center This summer’s hottest activities are Robotics and Coding for kid and Sylvan Learning Center is the place to be. Whether your child is interested in building robots using LEGOS® bricks or designing video games, he or she will have a blast in these fun and interactive camps.

Let’s get your young engineers, scientists and computer programmers going.

Robotics Camps for Grades 1 to 6 and Coding Camps for Grades 2 to 6. Contact Sylvan Learning today! See display ad on pg. 39. www.SylvanLearning.com

Tiger Rock Martial Arts Train all summer at Tiger Rock’s Taekwondo Summer Camp. For only $169, you can spend your summer training at our studio. Fee includes training jersey.

Hurry! You must register for this offer by June 1. Classes fill up every summer, so register today! 913.829.8818. See display ad on pg. 41. www.KCTigerRock.com

Summer Camps

at KU in Overland Park SUMMER FUN FOR KIDS OF ALL AGES. All camps will take place at KU Edwards Campus in Overland Park.

Sports Skills & Physical Activity Camp

KU Department of Health, Sport and Exercise Sciences

Jayhawk Junior Musician Camp KU School of Music

Science & Chinese Language Camp KU Confucius Institute

Science, Technology, Engineering & Math Camps KU Center for STEM Learning

REGISTER NOW.

EdwardsCampus.KU.edu/SummerCamps

kcparent.com april 2015

39

CAMPGUIDE

the great news about homesickness Christopher A. Thurber, Ph.D.

T

hat’s right . . . there’s great news about homesickness! For starters, you should know that:

Homesickness (or “missing home”) is normal. In study after study, researchers found that 95 percent of boys and girls who were spending at least two weeks at overnight camp felt some degree of homesickness. Children at day camp may also feel pangs of homesickness, but less frequently.

Homesickness is typically mild. Nearly everyone misses something about home when they’re away. Some campers most miss their parents; others most miss home cooking, a sibling or the family pet. Whatever they miss, the vast majority of children have a great time at camp and are not bothered by mild homesickness.

Homesickness is something everyone can learn to cope with. In fact, research has uncovered multiple strategies that work for kids. Most kids use more than one strategy to help them deal with homesickness.

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

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

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

To learn more about camp and child development, please visit the American Camp Association’s family-dedicated website: CampParents.org.

Originally printed in CAMP Magazine, reprinted by permission of the American Camp Association.

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Vineyard Church of Overland Park – Quest Are you looking for something fun to do this summer? Come hang out with other awesome Jr. High students for crazy fun events like bandanna hunts, games and much, much more! Quest is for students who have completed fifth through eighth grade and runs from 10:00 to 4:30 daily June 8th-12th. $40 for the week includes all lunches, Offsite activities and snacks!

Register at www.VineyardOP.org/quest by May 4. See display ad on pg. 33.

Vineyard Church of Overland Park – Vcamp

YMCA Kids find their voices and achieve more at the Y’s summer day camps. Fast forward to a summer of living out loud through self expression, learning, adventure, active play and friendship. Traditional camps offer exciting themes weekly. Specialty camps include outdoor, art, sports, engineering and community service. Locations include Blue Valley, Center, Olathe, Platte County, Shawnee Mission and Spring Hill School Districts; Camp Naish; North Kansas City; and Riverside. Ages 3-18. Learn more and register at www.YMCASummerFun.org. See display ad on pg. 68

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Looking for a low-cost, fun-packed, summer day camp for your kids? Embark on an icy expedition where kids overcome obstacles with God’s awesome power. Vcamp is for kids who have completed kindergarten to fourth grade and runs from 10:00 am to 4:30 pm daily from June 22-26 . $40 for the week includes lunch and snacks; wrap-around care available at no additional charge.

Register at www.VineyardOP.org/vcamp by June 1. See display ad on pg. 38.

kcparent.com april 2015

41

Get Them to Listen…

the First Time!

have been heard, have kids repeat back what you are asking. “After asking my daughter to do something, I make sure she heard me by having her repeat what I just said to her,” says Abbey Lynch, Overland Park.

Begin with “I want.” Starting your instructions out with “I want” makes it sound less like a command and more like a request. This will appeal to children who want to please and have a hard time taking orders.

Address your child. Use your child’s name when asking him to complete a task. “Avery, can you please….”

I

Be positive. Instead of using negative words such as no, don’t, stop or quit, try phrasing your command in a positive light.

Cyndi Mawhiney, director of Aldersgate Preschool in Olathe, uses the positive discipline approach when addressing her students. “When we say, ‘Don’t run,’ children tend to focus on the end of the statement, so they are apt to hear, ‘Run.’ Rephrase by asking, ‘Can you please use walking feet?’”

Command with one word.

It’s mind-numbing to repeat the same phrase over and over again. And at some point, our kids tune us out. Use one-word

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acknowledged the first time, then you don’t have the child’s attention. Go back to the above step; don’t repeat yourself.

Repeat it back. To ensure that you

f there’s one universal problem that all parents face, it’s getting their children to listen—the first time. We battle this never-ending war from the time they are toddlers through preteens. It doesn’t matter how many times we say it, the different tones of voice we use, the privileges we revoke, or the endless threats we make. Nothing seems to get through to them.

Do they even hear us?

Teaching your children how to listen is a process that requires communication and consistency, which weighs heavily on you as the parent. In order for your children to listen the first time, you must help them nurture the practice of listening, and that starts by acknowledging how you talk to them.

Stay calm. It is important to stay calm yet firm while talking with your child.

Speak in a direct and neutral voice when asking him to complete a task.

Don’t repeat. If you are not

commands such as “teeth” or “shoes” instead of “will you please find your shoes and put them on” or “you have to brush your teeth before you go to bed.” If you use too many words, it weakens the message.

Assign age-appropriate tasks. Ensure the commands you are giving are developmentally and physically appropriate for your child’s age. Younger toddlers and preschoolers might have a hard time remembering more than one task and could struggle with a multiplestep command.

Be direct. When setting an expectation for your child, be physically present. Instead of yelling across the room or house, get on the child’s level and make direct eye contact. This will also teach your child how to focus.

Praise them. When children do complete your requests, acknowledge their efforts. Take time to thank them for following instructions and explain how much it means to you that they listen.

Pick your battles. No one wants to be a nagging parent, and your child doesn’t want every interaction with you to be an obligation. Balance out your requests with lots of love, laughter and silliness.

Jennifer Duxbury is a SAHM from Olathe who struggles daily to get her spirited 4-year-old to listen!

Books to Reference Calmer, Easier, Happier Parenting

by Nol Janis-Norton How to Talk So Kids Will Listen & Listen So Kids Will Talk

by Adele Faber and Elaine Mazlish.

How to Get Your Child to Listen

by Thomas G. Bunville If I Have to Tell You One More Time…

by Amy McCready The One-Minute Counselor for Parents

by H. Norman Wright

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43

Confessions of a library-aholic L

ibraries. We often think of the local library as a dusty, musty place with stacks of books and stern ladies always with a finger to their lips whispering Shhhh! And while it is true that libraries house mounds of books and they do appreciate your consideration of others and use of a “library voice,” today’s libraries offer much, much more!

As a mother I have always desired that my children love reading and learning, and I actively look for ways to “increase the odds” of this happening. I am a self-confessed library-aholic—an addiction I sincerely hope to pass along to my children.

This was my motive for taking my first daughter to story time at the age of 6 months. We became faithful to our Monday morning story time routine, fast instilling in my daughter a love for books and anticipation in visiting one of her favorite people, Miss Carrie, our story time librarian. Beyond story time, I have come to love the many features the library offers, enhancing our family’s experience and seemingly growing with our needs.

Each summer, the library features a summer reading program where parents record the books they read to their children and earn prizes. Programs vary within systems, but every local library system offers a summer reading program annually.

Thanks to the online catalogs and apps available at all major library systems in KC, we are able to reserve books 24/7. On more than one occasion, I’ve spent my time on road trips requesting our next collection of books. The library’s recommended reading lists on their site only fuel my habit and, yes, I consider myself a “library junkie” with well over 100 books, movies and CDs checked out at any given time. In addition to “real books” (and I admit that I have a paper bias when it comes to reading actual books), we may now check out e-books using the library’s account and enjoy reading these materials for free on our devices—this has been a new favorite feature on long car trips.

So, what else does the library have to offer? If you browse the library websites, you will find a calendar of events. Our local libraries host wonderful programs for families ranging from

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concerts to puppet shows, as well as children’s programs including craft projects and petting zoo visits, and adult programs to learn new languages or art forms. Over the years, I’ve come to especially love the cooking classes offered at the library featuring exotic foods and healthy alternatives for families. These events are free and provide another outlet to meet new friends in our community. The Plaza Branch of the Kansas City Public Library offers tremendous family programs every Friday night in the Truman Auditorium.

Simply visit your local library website (all listed below) for an upcoming calendar of events and be sure to register for programs in advance, as many programs do fill up quickly.

• Bonner Springs Public Library: BonnerLibrary.org • Cass County Public Libraries: CassCoLibrary.org • Johnson County Libraries: JoCoLibrary.org • Kansas City Kansas Public Libraries: KCKPL.org • Kansas City Missouri Public Libraries: KCLibrary.org • Mid-Continent Public Libraries: MyMCPL.org • North Kansas City Public Libraries: NorthKCLibrary.org Special libraries worth a special visit: Regular library patrons visit their neighborhood library faithfully, and rarely do they venture out to explore other libraries. Frankly, we often think they are much like McDonald’s: very little changes other than minor details. While it is true that most Kansas City-area libraries are quite similar, there are a few gems that stand out among the rest, making them worthy of an off-the-beaten path visit.

• The Central Library of the Kansas City Public Library

(14 W. 10th St., Kansas City, MO, 816.701.3400), housed in the former First National Bank of Kansas City, is one of the city’s most beautiful best-kept secrets. It’s home to fabulous research departments, in particular the Missouri Valley Room, located on the fifth floor, with an archive of special historical collections including the Missouri Valley Collection (local history), Ramos Collection (African American history) and Western expansion materials. The library is an architectural masterpiece with reading rooms, research areas, a cafe and a rooftop view of the city skyline complete with a giant life-size chess set! But the most special section of the library for families is the Children’s Department. Enter through the pages of a book where kids will discover a wonderful reading area organized by ages and interests and offering many hands-on activities as well. This library is so special that even the parking garage is unique! The “Community Bookshelf ” painted along the south wall of the Central Library’s parking garage (on 10th Street between Wyandotte Street and

Baltimore Avenue) displays book spines featuring 22 titles from classics to local interest. The library’s many features beg to be explored and photographed. Parking Tip: The Central Library parking garage is located directly west of the Central Library building on the northwest corner of 10th & Baltimore. Parking is free on weekends and free for the first hour Mon.-Fri. with library validation and $1 for every 20 minutes thereafter with an $8/day maximum. The garage is one of Kansas City’s most unique landmarks as it is styled after a giant bookcase of famous literature.

• The Woodneath Library of the Mid-Continent Public Library

System (8900 N. Flintlock Rd., Kansas City, MO, 816.883.4900).

This is one of the newest and yet “oldest” libraries in the metro.

Located in the Shoal Creek area, this library is built incorporating a 30-acre antebellum farm and 1855 Elbridge-Arnold home and a 21st century library. The Greek Revival home is a popular event and meeting space adjoining the modern library. The Woodneath Children’s Literacy Center is state-of-the-art with skill-building computers and special interactive early literacy story times in the Story Time Barn. One of their most unique features is the Espresso Book Machine that prints, binds and trims a paperback book in minutes. You may purchase and print a book of your choice from a catalog of more than 3 million titles or bring your book for self-publishing.

Five Reasons I Love the Library:

1 2

Story time and programs are a great place for moms AND tots to meet friends.

The online catalog and mobile apps allow us to request and renew materials any time, any place.

3 4

Free access to their ebook accounts is wonderful.

5

Classes and programs for adults AND children. I still use the recipes from a Thai cooking class I took years ago.

Our local librarians are some of the most helpful people in KC.

Kristina Light is proud mother to four more library junkies!

For a list of events at local libraries, visit the calendar at KCParent.com.

kcparent.com april 2015

45

go GREEN to save some GREEN

B

eing a parent is an all-encompassing job. After all, kids need to be taught how to develop a strong work ethic, be respectful of others and steward well what they have. One of the beauties of making environmentally friendly choices as a family is that you can guide your children to do all of the above through simple changes and intentionality. The added bonus? Nine times out of 10, making eco-friendly choices is cheaper than the alternative. When going green saves some green, it stands to reason that there’s never been a better time than the present to make strides toward healthier living.

There are so many ways families can do their part to reduce landfill waste and clean the air, but efforts are doubled when children are included in the process, instilling those values in the next generation

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and ensuring that those habits become second nature to them as they grow up. Here are some simple ways to make green choices in your home. And remember, the biggest impact one can make is through a series of little choices. Commit to implementing a few you’re not currently doing and make them a habit throughout the year.

1

Use cloth diapers.

Disposable diapers are the third largest single consumer item to end up in a landfill.

In fact, the Clean Air Council estimates that Americans dispose of 49 million diapers a day. While it’s unclear how long it takes for one to decompose, it is estimated to take somewhere between 200 and 500 years.

Think about it for a minute. That means that the first disposables used more than 40 years ago will still potentially be around 12 generations later! Disposables do no favors

for human health either, composed of harsh chemicals such as polyethylene, petroleum and chlorine. Ditch the disposables and try cloth diapers instead. Today’s modern CDs are convenient, easy to apply and, as an added perk, just downright adorable. And it gets even better. The average cost of a cloth diaper collection runs around $300-500, while using disposables over a two-year period costs a staggering $4,000. Cloth diapers can be reused with subsequent children and, if in good condition, can be resold, meaning they earn their keep over time.

2

Practice green laundry habits.

Wear, wash, fold, repeat. The average household does more than 400 loads of laundry each year, making it a vicious cycle that tags a large carbon footprint.

Thankfully, there are several ways to lighten

the load (no pun intended!). It stands to reason that the simplest of all ways to cut back your laundry’s impact is simply by doing less of it. Wear items more than once, wash only full loads to ensure your machine functions at peak efficiency and wash using cold water (more than 90 percent of a washing machine’s energy goes toward heating the water, costing an average of $100 a year!). Use phosphate-free laundry detergents, soap nuts or, better yet, make your own laundry detergent with essential oils for a customized scent. Avoid using fabric softener or dryer sheets, as they are full of neurotoxins that are harsh on skin and break down the natural fibers in clothing over time. Instead, use a cup of vinegar during the rinse cycle, which naturally balances the PH of soap, leaving clothing soft and free of chemical residue.

Clean out the lint filter in your dryer to shorten the drying time, line dry whenever possible and when you are in the market for a new washer or dryer, look for Energy Star rated appliances, which can save as many as 7,000 gallons of water and $500+ in operating costs.

3

Go paperless.

Snail mail may be one of the most endearing of all ways to stay in touch.

Reserve your mailbox for what’s most important and kick junk mail to the curb by registering at sites such as DMAChoice.org, CatalogChoice.org and OptOutPrescreen. com. While at it, register at Yellow Pages Opt Out where you can decline receiving unwanted phone books (something many recycling plants will not accept anyway) and sign up to be placed on the no-call registry to put a stop to telemarketing calls on your home or cell phone (it might not save paper, but it will be a sanity saver!). Sign up for online bill pay, which can be done with the simple click of a button, saving checks and postage stamps. Reuse scrap paper by printing on both sides of the paper or letting the kids draw on the back side of the paper.

4

Eat fresh.

Perhaps one of the most enjoyable ways to make a lasting impact on the environment is to get up close and personal with your food sources. Plant an herb garden on your windowsill, try your hand at container gardening on the deck or a raised garden bed in the backyard. Build a simple compost bin and put food scraps to good use, nourishing the soil instead of adding to a landfill. Collect rainwater to water houseplants and your garden. And don’t forget to check out any one of the 30 farmers markets that call Kansas City home to purchase fresh, locally derived produce.

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Downshift drive.

One of the most careless ways a family can make a negative impact on the environment is by driving all over town.

Work together to strategically cut back on unnecessary driving. Couple grocery shopping with errands each week and organize a carpooling system with friends for the kids’ school and sporting activities.

Aim to drive at or below your vehicle’s optimum speed (for most cars it’s around 60 mph) to avoid wasting gas and money, as well as creating unnecessary greenhouse gases. Walk or ride a bike to errands within a mile’s distance.

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Lauren Greenlee can be found developing her green thumb this spring. She gardens—and writes—from her Olathe home.

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More than one-third of all energy consumption takes place at home, while the average person throws away roughly 4 pounds of trash daily.

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47

Nature Baby Encouraging children to interact with nature

“M

ama, I want that one!” My youngest daughter points to rows of plants on the racks of the local home improvement store. “And that one too!”

It is early April and time to plant our garden, including a special section of the yard set aside just for her. The space has been cleared, the weeds removed and the soil loosened.

And while we happen to be organic gardeners and even keep a flock of chickens in the middle of the city, the most you really need is a pot, some potting soil and a few seeds to get started. Last fall, my daughter collected some seeds from an overgrown section of the yard, brought them inside and put them in a glass terrarium. She watered them faithfully—a little too faithfully, which

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necessitated a discussion on how too much water can cause some plants to rot—and we set it in a sunny window.

As the days passed and the seeds erupted into seedlings and then began to grow at a high rate of speed, I knew I was looking at weeds. After a month or so, the plants, which look like some kind of rather aggressive vine, formed flower heads. I didn’t have the heart to throw them out— here in this controlled environment, they are actually doing quite fine, and she loves watching them grow. Outside they would be a menace!

A few days ago I dug out the weeds and blades of grass in her garden spot and then handed the hand trowel to my daughter.

She happily tackled the task of digging into the soft ground. Afterwards, we covered

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everything with a layer of mulch. This will make the planting easier and reduce the number of weeds. A circle of rocks defines the space, but just to make sure, we will include a sign, “Emily’s Garden,” so that there is no question who cultivates this small patch of dirt.

She picked out several viola plants in small 4-inch containers, as well as packets of zinnia and nasturtium seeds.

We plant everything at once, the violas for immediate visual results. The seeds will sprout soon, poking their heads up within a week or so, to eventually grow into a mass

of beautiful blooms of color.

As she digs in the soil she chatters away, “I want to put a fairy garden in too, Mama.

The fairies will love the flowers!”

We discuss the house we will make of sticks and a “garden path” of flat glass beads for the fairies.

Encouraging our children to interact with and learn from the natural world becomes more and more important in our technology-dependent world. When 9-year-olds sport cell phones and have a better grasp on how to play games on the computer than we do, you know it is

Set aside a little space and time for you and your child to garden this year. Here are a few supplies and suggestions to get you started:

Supplies Needed: • A pot or area of the garden • Potting soil • Flower seeds or live plants

time for a better balance of nature and technology. As Clare Walker Leslie wrote in her book Nature Connection, “…wherever I go, I find that kids still love being outdoors.

They just need to be shown how. A curious adult can make a wonderful companion!”

Christine Shuck lives in historic Northeast Kansas City with her husband and youngest daughter in an 1893 Victorian. She keeps chickens, gardens organically and teaches community education classes throughout the KC metro.

Fun plants to grow include flowers, vegetables, even herbs. My daughter loves mint (but be careful, mint is highly invasive!), and plenty of flowers. Consider planting edible flowers like pansies, violets (NOT African violets) and nasturtiums.

Non-edible varieties of flowers to consider are marigolds, zinnias and sweet William.

Get started today. Those moments spent digging into the soil and making a special place for your child to garden and dream will be well worth it!

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49

Z I NE

hen the first issue of KC Parent was published in 1985, Earth Day was just 15 years old. Gaylord Nelson, a U.S. senator from Wisconsin, founded Earth Day in 1970 after witnessing the effects of a major oil spill off the coast of California the previous year. On April 22 that year, around 20 million Americans held rallies across the nation to protest issues such as oil spills, air pollution, toxic dumps and wildlife extinction.

This year, we celebrate the 45th Earth Day and the 30th birthday of KC Parent. So how has Earth Day changed over the years?

30 85

19

W

THEN AND NOW:

PARENT M A YE A R S

GA

earth day:

KC

–2 0

15

Then When Earth Day was created, a few doomsday predictions were made, including this one by Life magazine: “By 1985 air pollution will have reduced the amount of sunlight reaching earth by one half.”

Powell Gardens will offer free admission and free tree

We know that prediction was erroneous, as were many others, but fear and concern set the first Earth Day into motion. By the mid-1980s, the initial enthusiasm and activism from the ’70s had diminished a bit. The movement was confined to the United States and focused on immediate issues such as dirty air, the ozone layer and toxic water.

StoneLion Puppet Theatre and St. Mark Child and Family Development Center will have a Puppets for the Planet

By the end of the 1980s, activists had expanded the meaning of “environment” to include things like asthma and architecture.

seedlings on Earth Day (April 22) and will provide crafts, storytelling, tours, cooking demonstrations and more.

PowellGardens.org

Community Art Festival on April 11. Activities include puppet shows, hip hop dancing, face painting, exhibits by local environmental groups, make-and-take crafts with local artists, bounce house and more.

StoneLionPuppets.org

Gardner Parks and Recreation will celebrate on

In 1990, Earth Day was taken to the international stage, with events in 141 nations, and has continued to grow globally.

April 25 with an Earth Day/Arbor Day event and will have a group cleanup, a free barbecue lunch, tree planting demonstration, drawings and prizes. GardnerKansas.gov

Now

The Kansas City Zoo is having a “Party for the Planet” on

The Earth Day Network estimates that one billion people worldwide honor Earth Day on or around April 22, and some communities make it a week-long event. The Earth Day Network continues to push for Earth Day to become more than just single-day actions, such as park cleanups and tree-planting parties, and encourages people to focus on long-term commitments.

How is Kansas City celebrating Earth Day 2015? Here are a few family events to consider:

Deanna Rose Farmstead will have educational programs about recycling and composting, crafts, flower planting, a traditional Native American ceremony and more on April 18. OPKansas.org

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kcparent.com april 2015

April 11. Visitors will learn about conservation programs and activities to do at home, and high school artists will be painting live around the zoo. Face painting and more activities will also be available. KansasCityZoo.org

Lakeside Nature Center will have a celebration on April 18 with a theme of “Wildlife in Swope Park.” The day’s activities include a show by the StoneLion Puppets, a make-and-take craft and information on Swope Park’s wildlife stars. LakesideNatureCenter.org These are just a few of the many Earth Day events around our city during the month of April. Check the KC Parent calendar for more listings.

Tisha Foley and her family make daily efforts to live green from their home in Belton.

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As the temps get warmer, take the kids to Backyard Specialists Payfor-Play event every Tuesday and Thursday. 17 play sets for kids to explore and picnic tables to enjoy a snack. $2.

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Let’s go fly a kite!

Head to MCCLongview Campus on April 18 for the Flights of Fancy kite festival featuring mega kite displays, inflatable maze, candy drop and more!

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Lenexa Baptist Church welcomes Ken Ham from Answers in Genesis on April 18 and 19.

Attend one of the several sessions over the two days to learn more and deepen your faith.

LenexaBaptist.com

Take the family to see Peter and the Wolf Ballet on April 18 & 19, performed

by Miller Marley, at Olathe South Performing Arts Center. Along with the show, enjoy other ballets.

MillerMarley.org

Explore TimberRidge Adventure Center at its annual open house on April 25. Choose from activities including canoeing, kayaking, hiking and more.

Pre-reg needed for some activities.

913.856.8849

1 Wednesday

2 Thursday

April Fool’s Day Visit KCParent.com for fun April Fool’s ideas for the family!

Free Play Cedar Ridge Christian Church. Daily free play for young children while parents enjoy a coffee drink. 913.393.3000

Welcome Wednesday Notre Dame de Sion.

See why children thrive in our small class settings taught by skilled teachers. Pre-reg at NDSion.edu.

Farmstead Opening Day 9:00, Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead. Opening day for the farmstead! Bring the kids out to see the animals. 913.897.2360 Animal Tales 10:30, Ernie Miller Nature Center. A listen-and-learn activity for children ages 2 to 6 to learn all about snakes and why they are important. 913.764.7759 Plaza Bunnies & Wonderland Animals Thru April 12, Country Club Plaza. The larger-than-life bunnies are on display. CountyClubPlaza.com What’s for Dinner? 3:30, Burr Oak Woods.

Watch every Wednesday and Sunday as the captive amphibians, fish and turtles enjoy their feast. 816.228.3766

Open Gym 9:00, Indian Creek Community Church. Open gym time for kids through age 7. Ride on toys and play with balls, blocks and more. Free. IndianCreek.org Preschool Bowling 10:00, Mission Bowl (Olathe & Mission). Receive one game of bowling, shoes, ball and a soft drink for only $3.

MissionBowl.com Pay-for-Play 10:00, Backyard Specialists. Kids can explore 17 play sets and munch on a snack at the picnic tables. $2. 913.307.6023 A Kansas City Dollhouse 2:00, MCPL (Liberty Branch). Learn about what life was like for girls growing up more than a century ago and participate in a hands-on project. Pre-reg at MyMCPL.org.

Getting Ready 2:00, Nat’l Frontier Trails Museum. During this guided tour you will learn about pioneers and come to understand what was needed for the journey. 816.325.7575

Easter Egg Hunt 6:00, Antioch Park. Grab your basket and head to Antioch Park for a new twist on the Easter egg hunt: a scavenger hunt. $8$9. Pre-reg at 913.831.3359.

3 Friday Arbor Day 8:00, Burr Oak Woods Nature Center.

Visitors will have the opportunity to select a seedling (chinquapin oak or spicebush) to plant. MDC.MO.gov Citywide Garage Sale Today & tomorrow, City of Lansing. Come out for a citywide garage sale.

Maps available at City Hall and on city website.

Lansing.KS.US Me & Mini Me Open Playground 9:30, Olathe Community Center. Two hours of open gym time for you and your little one to play and interact with others. $1-$2. 913.971.8563 Story Time 11:00, Reader’s World Lee’s Summit.

Every Friday enjoy story time with a story, crafts and a snack. Free. 816.246.7323 The Easter Bunny Visits Noon, Crown Center Shops. The Easter Bunny greets children at Crown Center. Professional photos or take your own. 816.274.8444

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Easter Eggstravaganza April 4, Science City. Hunt for eggs, dye eggs, make Easter products in the Maker Studio, create an art project and so much more! $11.50-$13.50. UnionStation.org

First Fridays 5:00, Crossroads Art District.

Galleries and shops remain open the first Friday of each month. KCCrossroads.org

Breakfast with the Easter Bunny 8:45, Powell Gardens. Enjoy a delicious pancake breakfast by Chris Cakes and meet the Easter Bunny! Stay for egg hunt. $9-$17.

PowellGardens.org

Goodnight Zoo 6:00, Kansas City Zoo. Enjoy a night of exploration stations, songs, educational games, activities and more. Ages 3-5. Bicycle Rodeo 9:00, Grandview High School.

KansasCityZoo.org Bring your bicycles for fun-filled activities and learn about bicycle safety and the rules of the Tween Night 6:30, Paint, Glaze & Fire. Don’t road. 816.316.4921 spend Friday night at home! Come for painting, pizza and fun. $25 includes pizza, drink and Funny Bunny 5K & Autism Egg Hunts 9:00, pottery piece. Pre-reg at 913661.2529.

Unity Village. Annual event to kick off Autism Awareness Month. Paws4Autism.org

4 Saturday Easter Egg 5K and Lil Bunny Fun Run 8:00, South Creek Office Park. This fun family event features a beautiful course, visit from the Easter Bunny and more. Marillac.org Project Blue River Rescue 8:00, Lakeside Nature Center. Help preserve our environment. Be part of Missouri’s biggest one-day cleanup event.

JacksonGov.org

look up at the sky! april 14 is look up at the sky day.

Teacher Appreciation Day 9:30, Kansas City Zoo. Free admission for teachers and three guests. Learn more about Zoo-Ed program.

KansasCityZoo.org Art Class: Landscapes 10:00, Nerman Museum (JCCC). Learn about landscape paintings and create an imaginary panoramic scene.

913.469.8500.

Enjoy the daytime sky: birds, butterflies, bugs and the trees above. Take a look at the sky above and enjoy the beauty of nature.

Bird watching is the best at Burr Oak Woods Nature Center (MDC.mo.gov). The conservation center features an indoor bird viewing area with binoculars, bird charts and books, a variety of native bird feeders attracting many species and a knowledgeable staff to educate new bird watchers.

Powell Gardens (PowellGardens.org), a favorite place to look at flowers on the ground below, also offers beautiful views of the gardens from the silo observation deck overlooking the gardens. On walks through wooded paths and flowering gardens observers will enjoy birds, butterflies and beautiful plants and trees.

Enjoy the night sky: Stop and enjoy the

stars above and, perhaps, take an outing to enjoy the night sky beyond the bright lights of the city. The exploration of outer space captivates imaginations young and old, and visitors to Kansas City can share in the wonder at local attractions and unique exhibits.

Explore the solar system with hands-on science at Union Station’s Science City (UnionStation.org), where children learn

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Easter Eggstravaganza 10:00, Science City.

Hunt for eggs, dye eggs, make Easter products in the Maker Studio, create an art project and so much more! $11.50-$13.50. UnionStation.org Easter Egg Hunt & Pancake Breakfast 10:00, Red Bank United Methodist Church. Enjoy a pancake breakfast, games, activities and egg hunt. Free. RBUMC.com Ever Eggs 10:00, Anita B Gorman Discovery Center. Join us as we explore eggs in nature and their different sizes, color and textures.

816.759.7300

about astronauts and American space exploration through hands-on exhibits.

You also can enjoy a show at the Gottlieb Planetarium featuring presentations on the solar system for all ages.

The Kansas Cosmosphere (Cosmo. org), a Smithsonian-affiliated museum in Hutchinson, KS (just a few hours west of KC), chronicles the space race through personal stories, displays of real spacecraft, handson exhibits, live rocket shows and more.

Enjoy the city sky: These local landmarks offer amazing views of the Kansas City skyline: The National World War I Museum at Liberty Memorial (TheWorldWar.org) is perhaps one of the city’s most recognized landmarks.

The museum offers world-class history exhibits, and the 217-foot-tall tower offers spectacular views of the city.

The KCMO City Hall Observation Deck (414 E. 12th St., Kansas City, MO) is on top of the fourth tallest city hall in the world, which rises into the sky as the third tallest Kansas City building. There is no cost to visit this view, making it perfect for a budgetfriendly trip. Picture ID is required to go through security, and the observation deck is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 to 3:00, weather permitting.

Ollie’s Egg Hunt 10:30 & 1:30, Paradise Park.

Paradise Park hosts its annual Easter Eggs-travaganza. Hundreds of eggs hidden wait to be found! 816.246.5224

no small characters.

Hands-on History 11:00, National World War I Museum. Kids of all ages are invited to handle Great War artifacts in the museum main gallery. TheWorldWar.org Cute as a Bunny Basket 11:00, Lakeshore Learning. Create a cute bunny basket and use it to collect Easter goodies. Free.

913.432.3998 Wonderpalooza 11:00, Wonderscope.

Jump, shake and wiggle to the beat with top kid-friendly musicians at Wonderscope!

Wonderscope.org

LIVE ON STAGE NOW thru MAY 17

Easter Egg Hunt 11:00, Louisburg Cider Mill. Bring your basket and come join us for the Easter Egg Hunt. Have your child’s picture taken with the Easter Bunny.

LouisburgCiderMill.com

FOR FAMILIES WITH AGES 5+ Located on level 1 of Crown Center

TICKETS $10 - $15 $5 - $6.50 for Groups 20+ (based on ticket availability)

thecoterie.org

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

816.474.6552

Enter winKC KCParent’s Parent’s Enter to win

ay!! eaWwAY NNAasSCcaARr GIGivVEA OneOne lucky KC Parent reader will win lucky KC Parent reader willa family 4-pack to the NASCAR Race win a family 4-pack of tickets Weekend on April 20 & 21 at Kansas to the nightreceives race ontickets May 9, Speedway (winner to BOTH along with track passes and apass RACES), FanWalk passes, a parking preferredfor parking and vouchers scannerpass. rentals.

A A$1$,0500+ VvAaLlUuEe!

Visit “Giveaways” Visit KCParent.com KCParent.com and and click click on on “Giveaways” Hurry, contest ends April 5!

Hurry, contest ends April 30!

Sat., April 18 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

MCC-Longview Campus

500 SW Longview Rd, Lee’s Summit, MO

Bring your own kites and fly with us!

Food and beverages available for purchase.

Alcohol prohibited. No glass containers. No pets allowed.

kitefest.mcckc.edu

Facebook.com/MCCFlightsofFancy kcparent.com april 2015

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5 Sunday Easter Sunday Easter Egg Roll 11:00, St Peter’s United Church of Christ. Children’s Easter egg roll following the morning service on the church grounds.

Free. KSCPUCC.org Kite Fest Noon, Overland Park Arboretum.

Purchase a kite, fly a kite and enjoy watching kites in the air! $3. 913.685.3604 art + family = FUN 1:00, Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Join us every Saturday and Sunday for free activities for all ages!

816.751.1278

6 Monday Gym for Me 9:00, Lenexa Community Center.

A place for children to run, ride and play while exercising and making new friends. $1.

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

816.784.6100

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Toddler Time 10:00, Bonner Springs Community Center. Bring your kids to play on the large assortment of toys in the gym. $2.

913.422.7010 Fairy Tale Village 10:00, Crown Center.

Children’s tales come to life. Step into a world of make-believe to interact with characters from favorite stories. Free. 816.274.8444 Special Needs Sensory Night 4:30 & 5:30, SkyZone. A time for jumpers with special needs who need the distractions dialed down. Visit SkyZone.com/kc for more info.

7 Tuesday

Walker Time 10:00, Wyandotte Library.

Walkers (12-23 months) will enjoy movement activities along with interactive rhymes, songs and short books followed by playtime.

913.596.5800 Creative Story Time 11:00, Ceramic Café.

Hear a story, create a pottery piece and enjoy a simple snack. 913.383.0222

8 Wednesday Plaza Bunnies & Wonderland Animals Thru April 12, Country Club Plaza. The larger-than-life bunnies are on display.

CountyClubPlaza.com

Dr Seuss’ The Cat in the Hat 10:00, the Coterie.

Zany fun and adventures abound in this classic story with Sally, her brother, Thing 1 and Thing 2 and more! $10-$15. TheCoterie.org

Pop ‘n Play 9:00, Johnson County Museum.

A drop-in program with age-appropriate activities for children 9 months to 3 years old.

913.715.2550

Xtreme Bugs 10:00, Union Station. Get up close and personal with massive, moving insects to discover their unique behaviors.

UnionStation.org

Stories for Ones 9:30, Waldo Library. Bring your 1-year-old to a story time geared toward this age group. 816.701.3486

Pay-for-Play 10:00, Backyard Specialists. Kids explore 17 play sets and munch on snacks at the picnic tables. $2. 913.307.6023

After School Lego Club 4:30, Olathe Library (Indian Creek). Find out today’s theme and then create something awesome with the library’s Lego collection. Pre-reg at 913.971.6874.

9 Thursday Free Play Cedar Ridge Christian Church. Daily free play for young children while parents enjoy a coffee drink. 913.393.3000 Open Gym 9:00, Indian Creek Community Church. Open gym time for kids through age 7. Ride on toys and play with balls, blocks and more. Free. IndianCreek.org Tadpole Tales 10:30 & 11:30, Sea Life Aquarium.

Kids 2-5 enjoy a story with a Sea Life educator, make a craft and enjoy the aquarium for a special price. VisitSeaLife.com/KansasCity

Practically Perfect Peter 10:00, Martin City Melodrama. An original musical that teaches kids how to be the best possible people they can be. 913.642.7576 Baby Bundle Ballet 11:00, KC Ballet. Enjoy ballet-type movement and strengthening exercises with your little one in this unique class for new moms! For details and registration, call 816.931.2299.

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

10 Friday

Middle School Teen Night 7:00, Paradise Park.

Spring is in the air, and tonight’s shindig is packed with plenty of spring break fun. DJ, ping pong, rock wall and more! Paradise-Park.com

Grandparent Appreciation Sale Today & tomorrow, Children’s Orchard (Olathe, Indep, KCMO, Lee’s Summit and Blue Springs). Show us a picture of your grandkids, get 20 percent off.

ChildOrch.com

Owl Prowl 7:30, Burr Oak Woods Nature Center. Who rules the forest when dusk turns to night? Our amazing owls, of course! Learn about owls. Pre-reg at 816.228.3766.

Charlotte’s Web 10:00 & Noon, H&R Block City Stage (Union Station). Theatre for Young America presents EB White’s classic and touching tale of friendship. TYA.org

11 Saturday Downtown Dog Day 8:00, Overland Park Farmers Market. Festivities include a fun walk around, live music, a doggie costume contest and more. 913.642.2222

Stream Clean 8:00, City of Overland Park.

Join the more than 900 volunteers who donate two or more hours on a Saturday to keep Overland Park streams clean.

913.895.6273 Fit ‘n Fun Fair 9:00, The View (Grandview).

See fitness class demonstrations, participate in kids’ activities and receive free health screenings. Free. 816.316.4804 Walk MS Kansas City 9:30, Sporting Park.

Connect with others. Support life changing programs and cutting-edge research. Family friendly event. 816.396.0320 Opening Weekend Today & tomorrow, Worlds of Fun. Kansas City’s amusement park opens for the season! WorldsOfFun.com Spaces & Places 10:00, Nerman Museum (JCCC). Learn about buildings inside and out and create an imaginary house using foam board in the classroom. JCCC.edu/youth City Imagineerium 10:00, UMKC (Pierson Auditorium). You Dream it! Design it! Build it!

Kids from all over town are invited to spend the day building. 816.914.3115

APRIL 20 - 25 with KCPT

Make tracks to pbsparents.org/outdoors and see how you can make any day in the park a PBS KIDS day.

AND Tune in all week for new nature-filled episodes of WILD KRATTS at 7:30am and DINOSAUR TRAIN at 11am.

The PBS KIDS logo is a registered mark of PBS and is used with permission.

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Fountain Day April 14, JC Nichols Memorial Fountain. The second Tuesday in April marks the day when the 48 public fountains of Kansas City, MO, spring back to life! KCParks.org

Slow Art Day 10:00, Nelson-Atkins. View five works in the museum’s collection for 10 minutes each and then join others in Rozzelle Court. Free, but must pre-reg at Nelson-Atkins.org.

Party for the Planet 10:00, Kansas City Zoo. Celebrate Earth Day at the zoo with face painting, art projects, puppets and more!

KansasCityZoo.org Spring Muster Today & tomorrow, Alexander Majors House. Come to the official opening of the Majors House, watch the Irish Brigade drill and stay for a tour. 816.444.1858 Trucks and Big Rigs for Kids 10:00, Theatre in the Park. Explore trucks, tractors, construction and city vehicles up close. $10/vehicle.

913.831.3359 Sunny Days Birdhouse 11:00, Lakeshore Learning. The spring birds are out! Create a mosaic bird house to hang in your home. Free.

913.432.3998

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KC Passport to Adventure Kick-off Noon, Bass Pro Shop (Olathe). Visit booths and hands-on activities and pick up your 2015 Passport to Adventure. 913.764.7759 Second Saturdays 4:00, Downtown Weston.

Stroll into unique gift shops and galleries for late night shopping and in-store specials.

WestonMO.com

12 Sunday Family Fun Day 11:00, Mission Bowl (Olathe & Mission). Get the family together for a fun day of bowling! Only $2.50/person for a game.

MissionBowl.com Xtreme Bugs Noon, Union Station. Get up close and personal with massive, moving insects to discover their unique behaviors. Last days! UnionStation.org Kite Fest Noon, Overland Park Arboretum.

Purchase a kite, fly a kite and enjoy watching kites in the air! $3. 913.685.3604

Reading Tales from the West 2:00, Nat’l Frontier Trails Museum (318 W). A guided tour of museum exhibits. To end the tour, write your own journal. Must pre-reg at 816.325.7575.

Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain 7:00, JCCC (Yardley Hall). Back by popular demand, the Ukulele Orchestra will storm the stage with pomp, circumstance and hilarity.

JCCC.edu/theseries

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

816.784.6100 Visit Legoland 10:00, Legoland Discovery Center. Spend the day creating with Legos.

A fun way to keep busy on cool spring days!

816.471.4386 Power Hour 1:00, Little Monkey Bizness.

Arrive between 1:00 and 3:00 on Mondays and Wednesdays and admission is just $5 plus tax! 913.631.7000

14 Tuesday Fairy Tale Village 10:00, Crown Center.

Children’s tales come to life. Step into a world of make-believe to interact with characters from favorite stories. Free. 816.274.8444 Walker Time 10:00, Wyandotte Library.

Walkers (12-23 months) will enjoy movement activities along with interactive rhymes, songs and short books followed by playtime.

913.596.5800

Kid’s Klub Course Hoffman International.

Kids ages 4-8 learn runway modeling, commercial acting, photo movement, manners, self-confidence and more.

HoffmanModels.com Fountain Day 11:00, JC Nichols Memorial Fountain. The second Tuesday in April marks the day when the 48 public fountains of Kansas City, MO, spring back to life!

KCParks.org Night Symphony 6:30, Burr Oak Woods Nature Center. Learn how to identify frogs by their calls. Join the Kids Citizen Science Team as we go out in search of the frogs. Pre-reg at 816.228.3766.

15 Wednesday Welcome Wednesday Notre Dame de Sion.

See why children thrive in our small class settings taught by skilled teachers. Pre-reg at NDSion.edu.

Three Bears 10:00, Paul Mesner Puppets.

What happens when three bears come together? Each one has his own story of encountering a golden-haired interloper.

816.756.3500

Half-Price Studio Fees 10:00, Paint, Glaze & Fire. Paint your own pottery and enjoy halfprice studio fees Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. PaintGlazeAndFire.net Dr Seuss’ The Cat in the Hat 10:00 & Noon, the Coterie. Zany fun and adventures abound in this classic story with Sally, her brother, Thing 1 and Thing 2 and more! $10-$15. TheCoterie.org Animal Tales Story Time 10:30, Ernie Miller.

Today’s topic is worms. A 30-minute program with stories, songs and an animal visitor.

913.764.7759

16 Thursday Sensory Time 9:00, Johnson County Museum.

Kidscape can be loud; this special time is for kids with sensory integration and processing needs. 913.715.2575 Open Gym 9:00, Indian Creek Community Church. Open gym time for kids through age 7. Ride on toys and play with balls, blocks and more. Free. IndianCreek.org Preschool Bowling 10:00, Mission Bowl (Olathe & Mission). Receive one game of bowling, shoes, ball and a soft drink for only $3.

MissionBowl.com

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take note: april ’15 April 1: April Fool’s Day Stumped for a few kid-friendly tricks this year? Head to U.S. Toy (2008 W. 103rd Ter., Leawood, KS, 913.642.8247, USToy.com), where you will find funny gags in the Magic Shop—everything from a fly in water to fake ink stains.

National Humor Month: Enjoy laugh-out-loud fun at a local comedy performance.

ComedyCity (ComedyCity.cc) is a live family-friendly improv comedy show where every performance is clean, funny and one-of-kind. Two comedy teams take suggestions from the audience to create hilarious sketches as they compete to earn your laughs.

April 2: Children’s Book Day Dream of the most magical, whimsical, creative and fabulous neighborhood children’s bookstore you can imagine. THAT is Reading Reptile (328 W. 63rd St., Kansas City, MO, 816.753.0441). The shop, a tradition in Brookside, offers play areas and reading areas for family, and the staff happily recommends beloved books. It’s the perfect place to celebrate Children’s Book Day.

Reading Reptile April 7: Caramel Popcorn Day For more than 50 years, Topsy’s has been serving delicious popcorn to Kansas Citians.

They are especially famous for their super sweet, extra sticky, amazingly delicious caramel popcorn. Visit TopsysPopcorn. com for more information.

April 13: Scrabble Day Septuagenarian—the word to describe Scrabble, the board game originally invented in 1938. Celebrate the day by challenging the kids to ultimate Scrabble and celebrate the classic game enjoyed by generations.

NEED COPY April 23: Take Your Child to Work Day Career exploration starts young with this annual tradition. Find out whether your company participates in this annual event and spend a day with your child at work.

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April 25: World Penguin Day Spend the day at the Kansas City Zoo (KansasCityZoo. org) and head to the Helzberg Penguin Plaza, featuring a dozen Humboldt penguins and nearly 40 cold water penguins. The state-ofthe-art exhibit houses a 100,000-gallon cool pool for cold water penguins and a 25,000-gallon warm wet area laced with sand for warm water penguins.

Pay-for-Play 10:00, Backyard Specialists.

Kids can explore 17 play sets and munch on snacks at the picnic tables to enjoy a snack. $2.

913.307.6023

Access Art 9:00, Woodneath Library Center.

An all-day event for all ages, with multiple opportunities for participants to create new artworks. Pre-reg at 816.883.4900.

Peter and the Wolf Ballet 2:00 & 7:00, Olathe South Performing Arts Center. Miller Marley presents this musical tale for kids, along with other ballets. $12-$25. MillerMarley.org

Brew for Books 5:30, Boulevard Brewing Company, Date night! All-you-can-drink Boulevard beer, Waldo pizza and entertainment.

Bring a new book for a child for discounted ticket. 816.474.7095

Scout Day 10:00, Kansas City Zoo. Boy and Girl Scouts in their uniforms and their immediate family members get $4 admission.

KansasCItyZoo.org

19 Sunday

Seven Brides for Seven Brothers Thru April 18, Indian Creek Comm Church. Culture House presents this rip-roaring adaptation of the classic film. CultureHouse.com Magic School Bus: Weathers the Storm 6:30, MCPL (Smithville). Join Ms Frizzle for a trip up into a thunderstorm to learn about weather.

Pre-reg at 816.532.0116.

17 Friday Earth Day Sale Today & tomorrow, Children’s Orchard (Olathe, Indep, KCMO, Lee’s Summit and Blue Springs). Receive 50 percent back in store credit when you bring in your own bag.

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

Every Friday enjoy story time with a story, crafts and a snack. Free. 816.246.7323 Lincoln Weekend Today & tomorrow, AtkinsJohnson Farm. Stop by the museum to learn and interact with Lincoln. Games, crafts and other hands-on activities. 816.453.3276 Englewood Art Walk 5:30, Englewood Station. The district comes alive with art, street performers, music, food, fashion and fun!

EnglewoodStation.com Kids Night Out Jr - Carnival Fun 6:00, Roeland Park Comm Center. Step right up and try your hand at our carnival games, winning tickets you’ll cash in for prizes. Pre-reg at 913.826.3160.

Major League Improv 7:30, ComedyCity.

A comedy sporting event with everything decided upon by the audience. $9-$13.

816.842.2744

18 Saturday Opening Day 7:00, Overland Park Farmers Market. The market opens its 33rd season. Enjoy live music by Good Sam Club from 10:30 to Noon. 913.449.6995 Answers in Genesis Today & tomorrow, Lenexa Baptist Church. Ken Ham from Answers in Genesis presents both Saturday and Sunday.

LenexaBaptist.com

Barnyard Babies National Agricultural Hall of Fame. This spring you are invited to the Ag Hall of Fame to see what babies can be found on the farm. AgHallOfFame.com/specials Earth Day 10:00, Deanna Rose Farmstead.

Educational programming, crafts, plant-aflower activity, chalk walk and much more. Free.

913.897.2360 Historic Sibley Cemetery Cleanup Day 10:00, Fort Osage Education Center. Help clean headstones and learn about historic cemetery preservation. 816.503.4860 Flights of Fancy 10:00, MCC-Longview Campus. Enjoy mega kite displays, face painting and inflatable maze, candy drop and more!

Hosted by KC Kite Club. MCCFlightsofFancy.org Wildflower Hike 10:00, Fairmont Park (Independence). On this hike we’ll go off the trail to find these short-lived blossoms.

816.325.7115 Earth Day 10:00, Lakeside Nature Center. Crafts, wildlife interpretations and informational booths provide a fascinating day of science.

Free. 816.513.8960 Puppet Circus Fun 11:00 & 2:00, Puppetry Arts Institute. Enjoy a two-ring circus with highflying marionettes, hand puppets and amazing juggling. 816.833.9777 Whirly Twirly Windmill 11:00, Lakeshore Learning. Using foam shapes, create a colorful windmill to display at home. Free. 913.432.3998 Scavenger Hike 11:00, Burr Oak Woods Nature Center. Join us as we search the forest for interesting and unusual colors, shapes and textures that exist all around. 816.228.3766 Open Gym 12:30, Elite Gymnastics & Aquatics.

Run, jump and play in the foam pit, rope swings and more. EliteGymSwim.com JCCC Free College Day 1:00, JCCC. JCCC faculty and staff will teach classes on a wide variety of subjects from beer brewing to floral design. JCCC.edu/freecollegeday

Celebrate Earth Week 11:30, Paradise Park.

Learn all about our home planet throughout the week in the Children’s Edutainment Center.

816.246.5224 art + family = FUN 1:00, Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Join us every Saturday and Sunday for free activities for all ages!

816.751.1278;2 Peter and the Wolf Ballet 2:00 & 7:00, Olathe South Performing Arts Center. Miller Marley presents this musical tale for kids, along with other ballets. $12-$25. MillerMarley.org

20 Monday Explore the Outdoors Thru April 25, KCPT Kids.

Make tracks to PBSParents.org/outdoors to see how you can make any day in the park a PBS KIDS day.

Gym for Me 9:00, Lenexa Community Center.

A place for children to run, ride and play while exercising and making new friends. $1.

Lenexa.com Toddler Takeover 10:00, Kansas City North Community Center. Bring your little ones under 4 to run and play in the gym. $1. 816.784.6100 Toddler Time 10:00, Bonner Springs Community Center. Bring your kids to play on the large assortment of toys in the gym. $2.

913.422.7010 Mt Gilead Monday: Civil War Soldiers 10:00, Mt Gilead School. Learn about the lives of both Confederate and Union soldiers during the Civil War. Pre-reg at 816.736.8500.

Family Night 5:00, Backyard Specialists. Bring the whole family out and let your children play on our redwood play sets! Ages 11 and under. $2. Backyard-Specialists.com A Night at the Brick Museum 6:00, Legoland Discovery Center. An evening of fun and excitement at Legoland! LegolandDiscoveryCenter.com

21 Tuesday Fairy Tale Village 10:00, Crown Center.

Children’s tales come to life. Step into a world of make-believe to interact with characters from favorite stories. Free. 816.274.8444 kcparent.com april 2015

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Preschool Bowling Thursdays, Mission Bowl (Olathe & Mission). Receive one game of bowling, shoes, ball and a soft drink for only $3. MissionBowl.com

Walker Time 10:00, Wyandotte Library. Walkers (12-23 months) will enjoy movement activities along with songs and playtime. 913.596.5800 Beetles, Butterflies and Burgers Scavenger Hunt 11:00, Antioch Park. Hunt for artificial buggy beetles and majestic butterflies around the park! Pre-reg at 913.831.3359.

Tots on Tuesday 11:00, Kemper Museum. Bring in your preschooler for a fun and fashionable get-together every third Tuesday. 816.753.5784

22 Wednesday Earth Day Earth Day at Powell Gardens 10:00, Powell Gardens. Celebrate Earth Day and enjoy free admission. PowellGardens.org Welcome Wednesday Notre Dame de Sion.

See why children thrive in small classes taught by skilled teachers. Pre-reg at NDSion.edu.

Half-Price Studio Fees 10:00, Paint, Glaze & Fire. Paint your own pottery and enjoy half-price studio fees Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.

PaintGlazeAndFire.net If You Give a Cat a Cupcake 10:00 & Noon, H&R Block City Stage (Union Station). Theatre for Young America presents this classic tale.

TYA.org Power Hour 1:00, Little Monkey Bizness.

Arrive between 1:00 and 3:00 on Mondays and Wednesdays and admission is just $5 plus tax!

913.631.7000

23 Thursday Celebrate Earth Week 9:30, Paradise Park.

Learn all about our home planet throughout the week in the Children’s Edutainment Center.

816.246.5224

Tadpole Tales 10:30 & 11:30, Sea Life Aquarium. Kids 2-5 enjoy a story with a Sea Life educator, make a craft and enjoy the aquarium for a special price.

VisitSeaLife.com/KansasCity Charlotte’s Web Thru Saturday, TCH Red Studio Theatre. Charlotte opens the door to a magical world, which a young girl named Fern finds herself a part of.

CultureHouse.com

read a road map

T

he first week of April is Read a Road Map Week. So often we stick to the highways and follow our favorite familiar routes, or we trust our GPS to help us find our way from Point A to Point B. Once in a while, it’s fun to read a map and see what great places you’re missing!

Enjoy a few of these off-the-beatenpath discoveries: When you visit the Kansas City Zoo, be sure to stop by Lakeside Nature Center (4701 E. Gregory Blvd., Kansas City, MO, 816.513.8960), a free conservation and wildlife rehabilitation center with educational exhibits, live animals and special programs. Pack a picnic for lunch and enjoy it at the zoo or the nature center.

When you visit the Truman Presidential Library and Museum in Independence, take the kids to McCoy Park across the street from the library (ci.Independence. mo.us/ParksAndRec), one of the best accessible parks in the metro. After your visit, eat where Harry ate: Dixon’s Chili (9105 E. US Hwy. 40, Independence, MO, 816.861.7308), the famous greasy spoon diner where chili is enjoyed by the forkful.

When you visit the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, take some time to visit the Kauffman Memorial Gardens (4800 Rockhill Rd., Kansas City, MO, 816.932.1200), a beautiful botanical garden with picturesque fountains and walkways perfect for family photos.

After your visit, enjoy lunch at one of many quaint restaurants in Brookside (BrooksideKC.org).

When you visit Union Station, the National Archives Kauffman Memorial Gardens of Kansas City (400 W. Pershing Rd., Kansas City, MO) When you visit Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead, the shares the same parking lot. The location features two Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art (on the JCCC campus, outstanding halls with interactive exhibits, perfect for children NermanMuseum.org) is about 10 minutes away. This free in upper elementary through high school and adults, and it is art gallery features modern art and offers family guides for free! The exhibits rotate, typically featuring regional or national children. After your visit, enjoy lunch at Tequila Harry’s (11817 history. After your visit, enjoy lunch at Lulu’s Noodles (2030 College Blvd., Overland Park, KS, 913.469.6644) for tacos and Central St., Kansas City, MO, 816.474.8424), the eclectic lunch enchiladas. spot known for some of the tastiest pad thai in the metro.

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kcparent.com april 2015

Happy Hour Series 6:00, Kauffman Center. A one-hour casual concert of inspiring chamber music. The perfect way to kick off your weekend a day early! Free. 816.471.0400

CW Parker Carousel Birthday 11:00, CW Parker Carousel Museum. Enjoy cake, ice cream and lemonade. And free carousel rides .Come join us for the fun! Free. 913.682.4514

Art Class: Exploring Sculpture 10:00, Nerman Museum (JCCC). Learn about sculpture and carve your own forms using foam blocks.

913.469.8500

Keynote Address 7:00, Emmanuel Baptist Church. Norm Wakefield of Elijah Ministries will present the keynote address of the 2015 MPE Homeschool Conference. Free.

913.599.0311

Major League Improv 7:30, ComedyCity.

A comedy sporting event with everything decided upon by the audience. $9-$13.

816.842.2744

GeoArboretum 10:00, Overland Park Arboretum. Join those who love to treasure hunt using compasses, GPS and maps at the arboretum. 913.685.3604

25 Saturday

ReptiDay Reptile & Exotic Animal Expo 10:00, Abdallah Shrine Center. Exciting, educational, family-oriented fun for everyone!

ReptiDay.com/kansascity

24 Friday MPE Homeschool Conference & Curriculum Fair Today & tomorrow, KCI Expo Center. Info on homeschooling techniques and curriculum.

913.599.0311 Me & Mini Me Open Playground 9:30, Olathe Community Center. Two hours of open gym time for you and your little one to play and interact with others. $1-$2. 913.971.8563 Creative Story Time 10:30, Ceramic Café. Hear a story, create a pottery piece and enjoy a simple snack. 913.383.0222 Story Time 11:00, Reader’s World Lee’s Summit.

Every Friday enjoy story time with a story, crafts and a snack. Free. 816.246.7323

CHILDREN’S CONFERENCE

Community Day 9:00, Mildale Farm. Bring the family out and spend the day exploring the Mildale Farm property. Free. 913.826.2957 Open House 9:00, TimberRidge Adventure Center. During the annual open house, choose from activities including canoeing, kayaking, hiking and more. Pre-reg at 913.856.8849.

Family Fun Day 10:00, 79th & Roe (Prairie Village). Features Kids Creation Station, face-painting, caricature artist, photo booth, Taco Republic Truck, Kona Ice and more.

TheArtEventAtKCC.com

Species Spotlight 10:00, Kansas City Zoo. Visit a featured animal and enjoy enrichments and chats throughout the day. Today’s animal: vultures and ravens. KansasCityZoo.org

Asian Cultural Festival 10:30, Olathe East High School. Martial art school demonstrations, 18 dance teams, yo-yo demonstrations and many children’s activities. 913.850.4189

Kids in the Kitchen - Spring Foods 10:00, Jo Co K-State Research and Extension. Learn the basics of cooking with fresh spring vegetables.

913.715.7000.

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

816.228.3766

VENDORS

WORKSHOPS

April 24-25, 2015

MPE Homeschool Conference & Curriculum Fair will be held at the KCI Expo Center at 11730 North Ambassador Drive, Kansas City, MO 64153 for directions please go to www.kciexpo.com Keynote address: Norm Wakefield of Elijah Ministries Thursday, April 23rd, 7:00 pm Emmanuel Baptist Church • 10100 Metcalf Ave., OP, KS The Purpose of the Conference is to Provide Information on Home Schooling Techniques and Curriculum Choices.

More than 180 exhibitor booths

To find more information visit www.midwesthomeschoolers.org/conference or call 913-599-0311 kcparent.com april 2015

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Earth Day 11:00, Gardner Greenway Corridor.

Enjoy a free barbecue lunch in the park, tree planting demonstration and more.

913.856.0936

Dr Seuss’ The Cat in the Hat 2:00, the Coterie.

Zany fun and adventures abound in this classic story with Sally, her brother, Thing 1 and Thing 2 and more! $10-$15. TheCoterie.org

Daffodil Days 11:00, Spring Hill Civic Center.

Fun for all ages including obstacle course, carnival games, face painting, balloon twisting and more. 913.592.2214

27 Monday

Butterfly Pencil Holder 11:00, Lakeshore Learning. A cute spring butterfly holder for all of your pencils and markers. Free. 913.432.3998 Practically Perfect Peter Noon, Martin City Melodrama. An original musical that teaches kids how to be the best possible people they can be. 913.642.7576

26 Sunday Flint Hills Festival Noon, Flint Hills Discovery Center. Celebrate the Flint Hills with an array of food, music, fun, activities and more for visitors of all ages! 785.587.2726 art + family = FUN 1:00, Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Join us every Saturday and Sunday for free activities for all ages!

816.751.1278

Moms FREE Monday 9:30, Paradise Park. Moms are free at the Children’s EduTainment Center with a paid child’s admission. 816.246.5224 Toddler Takeover 10:00, Kansas City North Community Center. Bring your little ones under 4 to run and play in the gym. $1. 816.784.6100 Fairy Tale Village 10:00, Crown Center.

Children’s tales come to life. Step into a world of make-believe to interact with characters from favorite stories. Free. 816.274.8444

28 Tuesday Pay-for-Play 10:00, Backyard Specialists. Kids explore 17 play sets and munch on snacks at the picnic tables. $2. 913.307.6023 If You Give a Cat a Cupcake 10:00, H&R Block City Stage (Union Station). Theatre for Young America presents this classic tale. TYA.org

piano

29 Wednesday Welcome Wednesday Notre Dame de Sion. See why children thrive in our small class settings taught by skilled teachers. Pre-reg at NDSion.edu.

Half-Price Studio Fees 10:00, Paint, Glaze & Fire. Paint your own pottery and enjoy halfprice studio fees Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. PaintGlazeAndFire.net What’s for Dinner? 3:30, Burr Oak Woods.

Watch every Wednesday and Sunday as the captive amphibians, fish and turtles enjoy their feast. 816.228.3766

30 Thursday Free Play Cedar Ridge Christian Church. Daily free play for young children while parents enjoy a coffee drink. 913.393.3000 Open Gym 9:00, Indian Creek Community Church. Open gym time for kids through age 7. Ride on toys and play with balls, blocks and more. Free. IndianCreek.org Preschool Bowling 10:00, Mission Bowl (Olathe & Mission). Receive one game of bowling, shoes, ball and a soft drink for only $3.

MissionBowl.com

May Day

lessons

Learn to play piano and have FUN doing it!

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

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

Daytime lessons available for homeschoolers!

kcparent.com april 2015

1 p.m.-4 p.m.

FREE

• Live Music • Craft Activities • Refreshments LanesfieLd historic site 18745 s. Dillie rD., eDgerton, ks 66021

913.893.6645

www.jocomuseum.org Call Spring Terburgh at 913-636-4472

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

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Saturday, May 2nd, 2015

We Welcome your children to our Warm, fun environment, Where every child is treated With personalized care.

Dentistry for infants, children, teens and all those with special needs

• Comprehensive pediatric dental care including orthodontics • Low radiation digital x-rays • Individualized oral health education

Dr. John T. Fales, Jr.

13496 S. Arapaho Drive • Olathe, KS 66062 913.782.2207 • 913.489.0028 Fax

www.KIDZDENTIST.com

find us on facebook

Michael Feinstein The Sinatra Project 8 p.m., Saturday, May 9 Come hear the champion of the Great American Songbook pay tribute to Ol’ Blue Eyes with a big band show that would make Sinatra proud.

Performing Arts Series Johnson County Community College NO ONLINE FEES | FREE PARKING WINE & BEER AVAILABLE

kcparent.com april 2015

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L EXP

ORE

KANSAS CITY ZOO New

Orangutan Canopy Coming in Late Spring 2015

2015 FOTZ Memberships NOW AVAILABLE!

April 3 April 11

Goodnight Zoo

April 11 April 18 April 25

Zootastik Learning Fest

May 9 May 10

SAVE $5

Party for the Planet & Sid the Science Kid Appearance

Scout Day Species Spotlight– Vultures & Ravens Endangered Species Day Mother’s Day — Free Admission for Mom

Renew To day!

Use Cod e: KCP5OF

F

Always a New Adventure!

OPEN DAILY kansascityzoo.org 816.595.1234

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

The stars come out at night.

SATURDAY NIGHT

MAY 9

Mother’s Day weekend— See the stars of NASCAR at night! Don’t miss our secondannual NASCAR Sprint Cup Series night race.

Tickets for the SpongeBob SquarePants 400 race are now on sale for $99 or less.

Season tickets are also available.

TM

PARKING IS FREE. COOLERS WELCOME. 866-460-RACE kansasspeedway.com

kcparent.com april 2015

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CAMP OUT L UD 2015 SUMMER DAY CAMPS YMCA OF GREATER KANSAS CITY

“I had a lot of fun playing with all of the kids and all of the counselors were really awesome.”

Kids find their voices and achieve more at the Y’s summer day camps.

Mark, Y camper

MEET MARK, 9

Visit YMCASummerFun.org to register, or call 913.345.9622.

My favorite part about camp is: playing all the games and eating lunch!

Attending for: 3 years Camp is great because: if I didn’t go to camp I would be sitting around in my room all day playing video games. I had a lot of fun playing with all of the kids and all of the counselors were really awesome.

Mark’s mom says: “I have such peace of mind, knowing that Mark is not only having fun and enjoying his summer, but that he’s also safe and under the care of great camp counselors.”

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

A UNITED WAY AGENCY