KC Parent magazine April 2022 by KC Parent Magazine

FREE | April 2022 | KCParent.com | Since 1985

EASY

WAYS TO GO

GREEN ALL YEAR

KC’S BIGGEST AND BEST

summer

CAMP GUIDE!

creating

(and sticking to)

A BEDTIME ROUTINE

ACCESSIBLE

PARKS

IN KANSAS CITY

COMING IN MAY!

Get your Kansas City Zoo Membership today! Enjoy a full year of fun at the Kansas City Zoo, where every visit is a new adventure! Memberships include unlimited admission to the Zoo, discounts on concessions and retail, a subscription to Expeditions quarterly newsletter, discounts on select Zoo events, and more. Your membership helps support the Zoo’s Conservation Fund, preserving wildlife at home and around the globe. Sign up online at www.kansascityzoo.org or call 816.595.1234

Open Year Round

www.kansascityzoo.org | 816.595.1234

Norah is her mom’s pride and joy. This Mother’s Day, give a cup of joy to moms — like Norah’s — by making a donation and sending a comforting cup of coffee to a family at Children’s Mercy. Imagine how you’ll warm hands and hearts when you send a cup of coffee and make a life-changing difference for twice as many patients when your gift is matched.

Donate today at childrensmercy.org/CupOfJoy.

APRIL

2022

IN EVERY ISSUE

EASY WAYS TO GO GREEN, PG. 26

FEATURES

Date Night

Craft Corner

5 Things

Word from Dad

Ask the Experts

Healthy Kids

Dear Teachers

SPECIAL SECTIONS

Camp Guide

Party Guide

Calendar of Events

Easter Craft

Camp Guide

Accessible Parks

Create a cute Easter egg

Check out all the great

Parks all over KC that are

with a few simple items.

summer camp options.

inclusive for all kids to enjoy.

Our cover features Kohen from Olathe. Photo by Melissa Rieke Photography. MelissaRiekePhotography.com FREE | April 2022 | KCParent.com | Since 1985

EASY

WAYS TO GO

GREEN ALL YEAR

ON THE COVER Creating a Bedtime Routine Easy Ways to Go Green Summer Camp Guide Accessible Parks

kcparent.com april 2022

24 26 30 52

KC’S BIGGEST AND BEST

summer

CAMP GUIDE!

creating

(and sticking to)

A BEDTIME ROUTINE

ACCESSIBLE

PARKS

IN KANSAS CITY

jccc.edu/MTCArtsEd Box Office: 913–469–4445 Mon. – Fri. / 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

@MidwestTrustCenterJCCC @MidwestTrustCenterJCCC @MTC_JCCC

MESNER PUPPET THEATER In the Workshop LIVE Saturday, May 14 & Sunday, May 15 11 a.m. / Polsky Theatre / Pre-K – 2 Tickets start at $9. Imaginative, interactive and out of this world!

SCAN THIS CODE TO PURCHASE TICKETS.

Saturday, May 21 / 11 a.m. Polsky Theatre FREE EVENT Reservations required.

SCAN ME TO RESERVE!

It’s a family dance jamboree!

THANKS TO: Adams Family Arts Education Endowment, ArtsKC, BNSF Railway, Hudson Family Foundation, Hall Family Foundation, Francis Family Foundation, Kansas Creative Arts Industries Commission, The Kennedy Center, National Endowment for the Arts, Victor and Caroline Schutte Foundation, and Yellow Freight System Inc.

EDITOR’SLETTER APRIL 2022

Publisher Michael Gimotty Michael@KCParent.com Associate Publisher Darrell Dean Darrell@KCParent.com Editor Margaret Sarver Margaret@KCParent.com Art Director Kim Tappan Tappan Design Kim@KCParent.com Advertising Sales Darrell Dean Darrell@KCParent.com Digital Media Manager Kristina Light Kristina@KCParent.com Copy Editor Susan Crainshaw Susan@KCParent.com Distribution To be added to our distribution list, e-mail Distribution@KCParent.com Local Contributing Writers Kim Antisdel (Liberty), Bill Bartlett (Belton), Janelle Cumro-Sultzer (Overland Park), Judy Goppert (Lee’s Summit), Lauren Greenlee (Overland Park), Amy Hundley (Olathe), Kristina Light (Kansas City), Sarah Lyons (Olathe), Emily Morrison (Independence)

Mailing Address 11936 W. 119th #335, Overland Park, KS 66213 913.782.3238 phone • 913.681.5139 fax OUR PRODUCTS FREE | April 2022 | KCParent.com | Since 1985

kansas city’s #1 travel guide since 2010

baby&

SINCE 2002

GO I NG PL YE A R S

10 KC

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EASY

WAYS TO GO

AZINE

GREEN KC’S BIGGEST AND BEST

summer

CAMP GUIDE!

creating

(and sticking to)

maternity

APRIL- JUNE 2022 | KCPARENT.COM

TIPS

TO BOOST

BABY’S BRAIN

choosing

THE BEST HOSPITAL TO DELIVER BABY

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ALL YEAR

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UNFORGETTABLE ATTRACTIONS

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PARKS

IN KANSAS CITY

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LOVE IS IN THE AIR GREAT DATES

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Tickets Make Great Father’s Day Gifts

AT ARROWHEAD STADIUM JUNEAWAY 18 KCGEHA PARENT IS GIVING

Member of:

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2 FAMILY 4-PACKS WITH PIT PASSES TO

LOCAL CONTENT

Hannah Berry (Kansas City), Julie Collett (Overland Park)

h, grocery shopping. Years ago when my girls were young, I used to see it as a mini-getaway in the midst of mundane days of having little ones. They would stay home with Dad while I shopped. Then there were the years they joined me, also known as the “getting hit in the shins with the mini cart” years. And now, I’m back to mostly shopping alone. I don’t really look at it as a getaway anymore, though, just a weekly chore. As with so many things, you’ve probably noticed your grocery bill is higher these days. I’m a knock-it-all-out-in-one-trip-a-week shopper, which means I like to plan ahead and have a master list. I’ve found that by really strategically planning, I’m able to save money on our weekly groceries. What are your best tips for saving money at the register? For more great ways to save, check out Julie Collett’s article on pg. 28. Spring has officially sprung, and that means Easter and parks and kites and showers and all sorts of fun that comes with the longer and warmer days. Our April issue is chock-full of ideas and events to help you enjoy every minute! From a cute Easter craft idea to ways to go green all year long, to great parks and fun events, we’ve got you covered! The warmer temps have also started me thinking about summer! We are fortunate to have so many great camp options for kids of all ages. Check out our 14-page Summer Camp Guide here in print, and look through the online version at KCParent.com for photos, videos and more to start planning the best summer ever!

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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, 11936 W. 119th #335, Overland Park, KS 66213

kcparent.com april 2022

join us

A family-friendly FREE event for kids of every age with an egg hunt, meaningful craft, and fun-�lled activities. Bring your basket and a few friends! JOIN US AT ONE OF THESE RESURRECTION LOCATIONS: LEAWOOD, OVERLAND PARK, OLATHE, AND BLUE SPRINGS OR DOWNTOWN AT THE LIBERTY MEMORIAL

For more info visit cor.org/egghunt

DATES WITH THEMES

DATENIGHT

10 april 2022

kcparent.com

Enjoy spring with a fun April-themed date night! LIBRARY WEEK To celebrate National Library Week, April 4-10, we gathered some ideas from others online who have done library dates and put those ideas together to make our own custom date. It was basically a series of challenges. We first each had to go find a book from our childhood that we loved and then meet up to read them aloud. Next, we each went in search of a book with a funny joke. When we met back up, we had so much fun telling jokes to each other that we couldn’t stop at just one. Next up, we went hunting for several books with short titles that, when stacked up, would reveal some kind of message or description of something or someone. This was my favorite challenge of our date. I opted to find books with titles that describe me, while Dean went with a sports-themed stack. The final task was to go together to the DVD section and pick out a movie to take home and watch. All in all, this was a fun and different date that exposed us to many different areas of our library.

LAWN AND GARDEN MONTH April is National Lawn and Garden Month, and I can’t think of a better place to go in observance of that than the Ewing and Muriel Kauffman Memorial Garden. Opened in 2000, the garden showcases unique trees, perennial beds and annual beds, with the annual ones being changed out at least four times a year. The changing variety means there is almost always something new to see if you visit multiple times a year. We finally went there for the first time in April 2021 and weren’t going to miss it this year either. We have found it to be a beautiful and magical place. Admission and parking are free, and the garden is open from 8:00 to dusk daily. If you go on an off day or off time, it is quite peaceful and serene. My husband and I highly recommend adding this to your date day calendar. And when you do go, be sure to really stop and smell the roses.

PICNIC DAY April 23 is National Picnic Day, and we think picnics make for a perfect date! My husband and I both love alfresco dining and being in nature. Plus, picnics can be customized to fit any budget. Sometimes, it’s simple sandwiches and chips; other times, it’s something more extravagant. We also love that you can have a picnic at any time of day for breakfast, lunch or dinner—or just snack time with wine and cheese. We have done all of them and had fun with each. And though the food and the time of day are important, the scenery is also important. We have enjoyed picnicking at Loose Park, Shawnee Mission Park, Smithville Lake, Berkley Riverfront Park, English Landing Park and Oak Grove Park. Many times, it’s just the two of us, but other times, we’ve been at a concert, play or movie with other picnic and event lovers. Hannah Berry is a freelance writer who lives in the Northland with her husband. They love to explore Kansas City and try new restaurants and activities.

FOR MORE GREAT DATE NIGHT IDEAS, GO TO KCPARENT.COM!

ADVERTORIAL

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one! You can train them to pee in a certain

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he can safely fly and avoid doing it during

your pup is such a great idea at this age.

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your vet about medications for your dog to

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ease the stress of the plane trip.”

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– Ashley Flores, CPDT-KA

for additional socialization. You can bring treats and ask others to give her a treat to

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some tips on how to keep the dog’s urine

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when I am away, but I wanted to get your

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CRAFTCORNER

Supplies:

• Blank paper • Clothes pin

puff ball easter egg eed a super easy and fun Easter craft? This painted egg will help your little one with matching up colors and developing fine motor skills, all while having fun!

Step one: Draw egg onto blank paper and set aside. Step two: Pour paint onto paper plate. Step three: Place puff balls into the corresponding paint. Step four: Use clothes pin to hold onto the puff ball or use your fingers to hold the puff ball. Step five: Paint your egg with the puff ball—lines, dots, whatever design you choose. Step six: Let dry and hang! Janelle Cumro-Sultzer lives in Overland Park with her husband, two children and two dogs. Janelle is a mediator who focuses on working with families. Janelle loves to help her children learn through play and getting messy with crafts.≠

Easter Bunny Planters

Egg Shell Art

Animal Confetti Globes

For even more great craft ideas, log onto KCParent.com!

12 april 2022

kcparent.com

(optional)

• Assorted paints • Assorted puff balls • •

matching the paints Crayon or marker Paper plate

ADVERTORIAL

STAYCATION OR VACATION: EXPLORE OCEANS OF POSSIBILITIES WITH THE LIBRARY! Summer break is just around the corner, and for many families, this means it’s time to bust out the swimsuits and suitcases and pack for a vacation. At the top of the packing list, behind the sunblock and sunglasses, is a stockpile of reading and listening material to enjoy along the journey. Mid-Continent Public Library, offering both hard copies and digital—freeing up more room in that beach bag—is the perfect one-stop shop for these essentials. This year, some families aren’t quite ready to strike out for the shore. If you are staying close to home this summer, MCPL has the perfect staycation resources to help you “seas” the day! Families can begin by exploring National Geographic Kids, either by visiting the Library’s website or downloading the app from the Google Play or Apple App Store, where they’ll find videos about coral reefs and various sea creatures in its “Amazing Animals” series. Users can also access current and past issues of the magazine, plus hundreds of downloadable books. For fun activities for almost any age, check out Teachables, another online resource available through the Library’s website that provides caregivers access to everything from mini books and ocean animal cutand-pastes that can be printed at home for students in kindergarten through first grade, to seashore science skills sheets for older elementary school students, and maps and information about ocean ecosystems for middle schoolers. If your child is more interested in the scientific side of sea study, check out ScienceFlix, another online resource that will allow them to “watch, read, and dive deeper” into the study of the ocean to learn about currents, waves, tides, and even information about careers related to oceanography. Finally, make sure to sign up for Mid-Continent Public Library’s Summer Library Program for kids and adults, which kicks off May 31 through August 23! This year’s theme is Oceans of Possibilities, and kids and teens can earn up to three books and qualify for prizes, such as a Kindle eReader or tickets to a local attraction, including the Kansas City Zoo, Kansas City Royals, SEA LIFE Kansas City, and Science City.

Learn more about MCPL’s Summer Library program at

mymcpl.org/Splash

Join MCPL for dozens of programs at its branches including: n

Summer Library Program Oceans of Possibilities Kick-off Events (all ages)

Five Oceans of Fun with Storyteller JoHo (all ages)

Mad Science Presents Life in the Sea (ages 6+)

Ocean and Reef Restoration and Conservation with the Kansas City Zoo (ages 10+)

Teen Escape Room: Sea Monster Reveal and Shark Escape (teens)

Registration is required for all programs at mymcpl.org/Events and will be available later this spring.

FIVETHINGS

Book

Nail Polish Strips Let me say off the bat that I don’t sell Color Street nail polish strips. Now you know this is unsolicited and something I just really love right now! I was invited to an online party and decided to give them a try. Well, I am hooked. I love a nice manicured nail, but both dip and gel manicures just wreck my nails (and I’m not good about making appointments to get them done regularly). The Color Street strips are easy to apply, and I get a full week of nicely painted nails. I take them off after a week to give my nails a few days’ break before applying the next set. So many fun colors and designs to choose from! ColorStreet.com

Local author and artist Danna York has recently released a new, interactive book you’ll enjoy reading with your kids. And the best part is that children get to help illustrate the book, putting their own stamp on it and giving them some ownership to the process! By the Lighthouse is a simple and sweet beach tale of a lighthouse and a day on the beach. Kids will enjoy becoming a part of the book through coloring and illustrating pages, a simple, yet effective, way to involve kids with literacy! Amazon.com

THINGS WE

LOVE RIGHT NOW

Compiled by Margaret Sarver

Puzzles My younger and I enjoy completing puzzles together. But although I enjoy them, I don’t like ones that are really difficult. The new Buffalo Gold line of puzzles available at Walmart fits the bill of being fun but not too hard. They are high quality in every aspect— sturdy boxes with resealable plastic bags and solid pieces. Plus, included in the box is a poster of the image, which is much easier to follow than a box cover. We typically stick to the 500 piece puzzles, but I’m going to challenge myself with 1,000 pieces. Good idea or bad? Only time will tell! Walmart.com

Library App Mid-Continent Public Library recently launched its “Grow a Reader” app designed to help caregivers engage in constructive, enriching and fun literacy activities with their children. Free to download, the app focuses on developing children’s pre-reading skills so they can become strong readers and lifelong learners. The app is a great way to have some engaging and ageappropriate content at your fingertips for little ones. Through a variety of videos, books and daily literacy tips, the app supports early literacy skills. Check it out and download today! MyMCPL.org

Flower Planters I don’t have a green thumb, and I don’t really enjoy yard work, gardening or anything along those lines. What I do like is pretty plants and flowers and having a yard that looks nice. Enter Family Tree Nursery. For the past few years, I’ve gotten the loveliest pots filled with beautiful flowers for the front of our house from Family Tree Nursery. The arrangements are spectacular, and I receive many compliments. And although I don’t love working in the yard, I do manage to keep them alive all season. FamilyTreeNursery.com

14 april 2022

kcparent.com

WORDFROMDAD

Footloose and Fancy “Bill, where’s Ian?” Sandi gazed out the window over the kitchen sink. “He’s out back.” I’d let both of the boys into our fenced backyard earlier. They’d played outside many times, both content and safe. James had come inside, but 3-year-old and preverbal Ian hadn’t. “Can’t see him.” I searched the back yard. No Ian. “Sandi, I can’t find him.” She dialed the police and spoke for a moment. “He’s down at the high school with a police officer.” We wasted no time in collecting our wayward son and, after explanations to the officer, returned home. The experts refer to Ian’s adventurous spirit as elopement, and he had an uncanny ability to disappear whenever he wanted. We grew adept at keeping him under control. I put spring-loaded hooks that defied his understanding on the storm doors, we held hands during walks and we went outside with the boys. Our efforts weren’t enough. One day, school called us, saying they’d lost Ian. By the time we reached his school, the principal waited for us out front with the news that he’d been found safe. Relieved, we went inside for a meeting to discuss ways to keep Ian and his wayward feet safe at school. We settled on a dedicated paraprofessional who would keep my wandering son in sight. Problem solved or, at least, circumvented, we went home and didn’t come back until the next parent/teacher meeting when I spoke to his teacher, Mrs. Schlagle. “Have you had any more problems with Ian’s elopement?” She gave a small chuckle. “I discovered he likes being near girls, so I sat him next to one. Nailed his foot to the floor.” Hmm … Maybe a baby girl would help. I turned to Sandi and raised my eyebrows in silent question. “Don’t even think about it.” William R. Bartlett lives in Belton with his family. kcparent.com april 2022

ASK THE

EXPERTS Anna Nicek, MD

John P. Roth, DDS

ADVENTHEALTH

STARTING POINT PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY AND ORTHODONICS

Find answers to more than 150 behavior, health or school struggles at the only parenting-coaching-adviceresources-education resource hub wherever you live in the greater KC area at AdventHealth ParentCare. 913.632.4206, SHAW.Parent.Care@adventhealth.com

Starting Point Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics specializes in giving kids the care and special consideration they need for successful dental care. 913.553.2492, StartingPointDental.com

What’s the best way to help treat my 8-year-old daughter’s seasonal allergies?

Help! My child has bad breath. What can I do?

First, clean the inside of your child’s nose and get rid of residual pollen by rinsing the nose with salt water; you can buy saline over-the-counter. Steroid nose sprays like Flonase or Nasonex are the single best treatment for nose symptoms. Spray one to two sprays in each nostril daily. Antihistamines like Zyrtec and Claritin help stop itching, sneezing and runny nose, but can sometimes cause sleepiness. They can be given regularly or as needed (ideally 2-5 hours before an exposure for Zyrtec, while Claritin peaks 8 hours after taking it). Prevent symptoms by starting medicine a week or two before the time of year that is most bothersome.

This is a fairly common concern. In fact, a study published in Pediatric Dentistry showed that 23 percent of young children have halitosis (bad breath). The most common things that cause bad breath are tongue coating, gingivitis (inflammation of the gums) and tooth decay. Bad breath is simply the result of bacteria in the mouth breaking down sugars. Cavities are caused by these same bacteria. Brushing with a fluoride toothpaste can protect y our children from cavities and will alleviate their bad breath. Make sure your kids brush their teeth and their tongues thoroughly. A good habit to get into is to brush for two minutes twice a day.

Anna Nicek, MD

John P. Roth

Pediatrician & Internist AdventHealth Medical Group Primary Care at Shawnee Mission

Starting Point Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics

ASK THE EXPERTS...If you have a question, send it our way and we’ll ask one of our experts to answer. Email editor@kcparent.com and put “Ask the Experts” in the subject line. As always, please consult your health care provider with any medical questions or concerns.

16 april 2022

kcparent.com

ADVERTORIAL

Maur Hill-Mount Academy We are College Prep, We are Boarding and We are Catholic

“I Robert “Robbie” Shriwise Class of 2005, Jetmore, KS

Robbie and Joe’s Reasons a KC Parent Should Consider MHMA: 1. Opens the world to your child. 2. Not limited to one thing, play 3 sports and more! 3. Structure is a good thing.

learned more Korean from my roommates than the Spanish I took for three years.” Robbie laughs as he reminisces of his boarding days at Maur Hill Mount Academy (MHMA). Robbie and Joe have deep roots at MHMA, both legacy students and long time summer campers. The two alumni were presented the opportunity by their parents to be boarders, and both agree it was the best decision of their lives at 14 years old.

not have had access to if I stayed at home. Between the two of us we covered everything. We played sports every season, joined the Scholar’s Bowl team, led boarder council and I played a key role in the school theater production.” “That’s the advantage of MHMA,” Joe adds. “I could’ve attended a big Catholic high school in KC, but then I wouldn’t have been able to play four different sports during my four years.”

“MHMA opened the world to us” Joe continues. “I’m from Kansas City, just an hour away and I was attending a high school with dormmates from Thailand, Mexico, South Korea, India, Saudi Arabia all in one hallway. We had everything we needed; friends from Atchison and the dorms, amazing teachers, college prep courses, Catholic education, an abundance of extracurricular activities, and we could go to my house on the weekend so my mom could do our laundry,” Joe chuckles.

“As you can see, the friendships from a boarding school last a lifetime” Joe continues. “I was in Robbie’s wedding (picture below), and our fantasy football team has been going strong since our high school days. We both are extremely active as alumni. I’m on the alumni association board, Robbie sits on the endowment board, and we always have a team in the annual Bob Goalby Golf Tournament.”

Robbie continues, “MHMA provided opportunities I would

“MHMA has so much to offer a 14 year old. Visit campus and we promise you’ll love it!”

Joseph “Joe” Zigtema Class of 2005, Kansas City, KS Joe Zigtema ‘05, Andrew Shriwise ‘08, Robbie Shriwise ‘05, Eric Shriwise, Justin Pregont ‘05

HEALTHYKIDS

KIDS & HEALTHY HEARTS By Amy Hundley, Olathe

ant your kids to have healthy hearts? Of course, you do and you can start in the kitchen! Certain dietary components enable a healthy heart, while others increase the risk for heart disease. Read on to discover how you can help your kids foster heart healthy eating practices. Helpful heart components of your child’s diet include omega-3 fatty acids, potassium and fiber.

OMEGA-3 FATTY ACIDS

POTASSIUM

The omega-3 fatty acids are important for optimizing health of blood vessels. Research suggests these fatty acids have the ability to decrease triglycerides and lower blood pressure. Sure, kids are young now and may not have to worry about this as much, but fatty acids still contribute to a strong, healthy heart. Some good sources of Omega-3 fatty acids include:

Potassium balances blood pressure and is crucial for a healthy heart. Children ages 1 to 13 need about 2,0002,500 milligrams each day, while teens require 2,300-3,400 milligrams. Eating at least 2 cups of fruits and 2 1/2 cups of vegetables each day can help your kids get potassium. Sources of potassium:

• Fish (salmon, tuna, shrimp, cod, crab, mackerel)

• Vegetables (especially potatoes, spinach, tomatoes and broccoli)

• Walnuts (including walnut oil)

• Milk

• Flaxseeds

• Beans

• Fruits (especially bananas, oranges, avocados, watermelon)

FIBER Fiber is essential for fostering proper cholesterol levels. Studies have also shown that high fiber foods may have other heart healthy bonuses, such as decreasing blood pressure and inflammation. Fiber can be found in: • Fruits • Vegetables • Whole-grain products (breads, tortillas, bagels, muffins, crackers, pasta, rice) • Beans and legumes • Nuts and seeds

• Eggs (Some chickens are given feed that is high in omega-3s – check the package.)

When cooking at home, choose to bake, stream, boil or grill. There are several unhelpful heart health components that you’ll want to shy away from. Sodium increases blood pressure and ultimately makes the heart work harder. Some places you’ll find excessive amounts of sodium include packaged foods, sauces and condiments. Instead of reaching for the salt shaker when cooking or dining, encourage your kids to use a variety of herbs and spices, such as basil, pepper, cinnamon and garlic. Opt to use lemon or lime juice when seasoning. Next, be sure to purchase low sodium options of prepared foods, such as soups and beans. Another component to watch out for is trans fats. These bad fats hurt the arteries and are often found in deep fried foods, coconut and palm oils. Make an effort to Include the good fats in your diet’s meals and snacks. These include avocados, olives, olive oil, nuts and seeds. These good health habits and components will equip your kids’ growth of healthy hearts!

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

18 april 2022

kcparent.com

ADVERTORIAL

Q&A DEARTEACHERS

OPPORTUNITIES FOR YOUNG TEENS TO VOLUNTEER

BY PEGGY GISLER AND MARGE EBERTS

KINDERGARTEN EXPECTIONS

QUESTION: I’m already thinking about summer and what

QUESTION: My son did not attend preschool. This fall he

my young teens could do beyond just fun activities. There are some jobs like babysitting and yard work, but beyond this there aren’t too many jobs for children this age. Where are some places they could do some volunteer activities? – For Volunteering

will start kindergarten. I have tried to teach him some of the skills I thought he would need to be ready for kindergarten. He has been an eager learner and knows how to write his name, knows most of the letters of the alphabet and can count to 20. What I am wondering is whether he has the readiness skills the teacher will expect him to have. Is there a checklist I can use to evaluate his readiness? I want to make sure he is ready and gets off to a good start in kindergarten. – Ready or Not

ANSWER: Volunteering is a worthwhile experience for young teens. It can be an opportunity to explore career paths by stepping into a new environment. Most communities offer some summer volunteer opportunities even for young teens. You can find opportunities for young teens with parks and recreation departments, food banks, soup kitchens, animal shelters, nonprofit organizations and local libraries. You and your young teens can easily get an idea of what opportunities exist by searching for “volunteer opportunities for children” online, or you can be more specific and search for a specific age. You will find loads of websites with suggestions about things that they can do. Some cities, usually larger ones, have websites that list volunteer opportunities for teens. Besides volunteering in person, there are many opportunities to be an online virtual volunteer. Both of you can explore these opportunities online. Consider online tutoring, calling and checking on senior citizens as well as playing online games with them, being a pen pal to younger children, advocating for a cause, starting a fundraiser and much more. Young teens can also get together with their friends to create items for the homeless or others in need. They can sew blankets, knit socks and put together bags of needed items from clothes to food. They can also grocery shop for the house-bound and raise funds for a particular cause. One thing that is great about young teens’ volunteering is that it starts them on the road to a lifetime of volunteering. Furthermore, studies show that volunteering tends to make them happier and increase their self-confidence—and they may even learn some new skills. And in volunteering, they get a feeling of satisfaction that they have made a difference by meeting real needs in their community.

kcparent.com april 2022

ANSWER: You are right to be questioning whether your child is ready for kindergarten. You want him to be ready to learn from day one. Unfortunately, kindergarten is no longer the milk and cookies and playtime it once was. In many school districts, kindergarten is now essentially a watered-down first grade. The kindergarten readiness checklists all now have an academic element, as well as the more traditional social, emotional and motor skills sections of the past. If you search online for checklists, you will find a great number of lists. However, what you want to find out first of all is whether your local school district has a checklist. This will be the best checklist for you to use. Another possible source is your state’s readiness checklist. If you want to see whether your child is ready to learn to read, visit the ReadingRockets.org website and search for the “Get Ready to Read Screening Tool.” It is a fast, free, researchbased and easy-to-use screening tool designed specifically for children in the year before they begin kindergarten. It only takes parents 10 to 15 minutes to give this test. Be sure to read what to do after using this test. This excellent website also has skill-building activities to help children get ready to read, as well as animated online games. All are designed to enhance their pre-reading skills. One important reminder for you and all parents who are anxious to know that their children are ready for kindergarten: Children this age change rapidly. Skills they may not yet have acquired this month may be solid in another few months. Just use a checklist as a guidepost for engaging in fun activities with your son to strengthen skills that are not as strong as they should be. © Compass Syndicate Corporation, 2021

Little smiles can have a BIG impact!

Reasons to Love Spring in KC

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Kansas City offers so many terrific parks with fun themes. Some of the best we love to visit: Penguin Park with giant animals, Meadowbrook Park with urban treehouses, Meadowmere Park with Brumble’s Forest and more. Search “Parks” on the Going Places tab on KCParent.com to find the coolest park near you.

Flowers are blooming! Powell Gardens, Loose Park's Rose Garden, Kauffman Gardens and the Overland Park Arboretum are just a few of our favorite places to enjoy the blooms. Search “Garden” on the Going Places tab on KCParent.com.

Deanna Rose Children's Farmstead opens for the season! Every time we ask KC Parent readers for their favorite outdoor attractions, Deanna Rose always gets a mention! The petting zoo and farm offers fantastic educational attractions for the family. Pony rides, wagon rides, miniature tractors, an old-fashioned school, mining camp, gardens and farm animals are just part of the fun.

It's the season of homegrown goodness! Savor the freshness with a tour of a local farm where kids can learn where food comes from, a visit to one of the 30+ local farmers markets in Kansas City (on KCParent.com in our Farmers Market Guide) or lunch at a local restaurant that specializes in serving farm-fresh local food. (Tip: Read “Eating Homegrown at KC's Restaurants” on KCParent.com). Spring is the beginning of fresh fruits and veggies for the whole family to enjoy.

It's not quite beach season at the local lakes, but it is time for some great fishing! Search “Fishing” on KCParent.com to discover our favorite spots.

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You’re an expert on your kids. We’re experts on mental health. KVC Hospitals has all the resources you need to ensure your kids’ mental health needs are cared for. Visit www.kvchospitals.org/resources to learn about common mental health conditions, get practical advice and tips, and so much more from our mental health experts.

KVC Hospitals can help.

(913) 890 – 7468

www.kvchospitals.org kcparent.com april 2022

GO AHEAD AND GO:

KICKING SEPARATION ANXIETY OUT THE DOOR

t’s so hard to say goodbye—especially for kids. Whether you’re leaving your child at school for the first time or just dropping him off after spring break, a youngster’s separation anxiety is a very real challenge every parent must face. Though it seems wrong, separation anxiety is actually a very good thing. In simplest terms, it means your child loves you, feels attachment to you and knows you are her person. She wants to spend all her time with you, soaking up that love you so expertly give. But time apart, wanted or not, is a part of life. Separation anxiety isn’t forever, and following these tips will help ease the process along for children of all ages.

Get ready for the transition By the time children enter kindergarten or elementary school, they should be familiar with time away from you. Perhaps your little has even experienced daycare and preschool for several hours at a time. But don’t get it twisted—regular school is different. Gone are the days of checking in with the teacher every two hours and seeing photos as the day progresses. This is the big leagues. Talk to your child early about how things will be different and prepare him mentally for being dropped off or riding the bus.

Don’t dawdle This is no time for a long goodbye. Make it short and simple and keep the energy positive. Give your child a big hug (or even a high five!), tell him you love him and can’t wait to see him later, then get on down the road. The longer you stay, the greater the chance your child will realize you are actually leaving him there alone—and it goes downhill from there. Schools generally allow for a pre-meeting with the teacher and the students, so take full advantage of those opportunities. Remind your child of all the new and exciting things he’s going to learn and that you can’t wait to hear about everything!

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Don’t disappear

Be aware of little listeners

It’s never a good idea to try to sneak away, as it can instigate mistrust between you and your child. Always let her know when you’re going and when you plan to return. Make a plan to tell her the plans, always. The more information your child has, the more secure she will feel in your being gone.

Children are always listening, even from several rooms away when they’re supposed be asleep. Be mindful of how you talk with your partner and others about school or transitions into new activities. Rather than saying, “I just worry that nine hours away at a new school is going to be a lot for him,” reframe your language to say, “He’s so excited for school, and we are too! I’ve heard so many positive things about the teacher and he is so lucky to be going there.” Talking positively about new experiences will seep into your child’s thoughts. If you’re excited for him, he will echo that sentiment and feel more ready for new opportunities.

Be ready for hesitation You can practice and prepare, but your child still might melt down. The idea of being away from you in a new setting (or even an old one) can be extremely stressful. She is leaving a world she knows so well and heading into the unknown. Allow for extra time on the first few days to talk things through. Practice keeping your cool so you don’t let your own emotions elevate the moment further. If your child is especially nervous about being without you, consider offering a talisman like a cute eraser or a bracelet that is special for the two of you. Let your child keep it in her pocket and squeeze it throughout the day if she starts to miss you.

with a particular person, anxiety around the event eases. When you introduce varied schedules and people, the disruption can create additional anxiety and fear.

All feelings are allowed

Keep it consistent

No matter whether separation from you is minutes or days, children’s anxiety and fears are allowed and valid. Use this time to listen and hear your child’s concerns. It might help ease anxiety to relate to him. Try sharing a story about a time when you were nervous about being left alone and how it all turned out okay. Show him that it’s okay to have a lot of feelings in his body and that you are proud of him for being brave. Most importantly, emphasize that this time away from you is brief and temporary. You’ll be there at the end of the day waiting—today, tomorrow and always.

Do what you can to keep pickups and drop-offs from events, school and other times apart as reliable as possible. When your child knows that each day, she goes to a particular place at a particular time

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

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kcparent.com april 2022

Creating

(and Sticking to)

A BEDTIME ROUTINE

e establish routines for work, school and chores. Yet when it comes to sleep, many of us assume it should just come on its own. The reality? More than a third of children and adults

struggle to fall asleep and stay asleep. Because humans are creatures of habit, establishing a bedtime routine for your family can be one of the most effective ways to prepare for nighttime rest success.

THE HIDDEN BENEFITS OF A BEDTIME ROUTINE Bedtime routines aren’t simply just about getting your kids to fall asleep. They also help build bonds between you and your children and give little ones a sense of security while teaching them how to fall asleep on their own. Children who follow bedtime routines fall asleep easier, faster and sleep longer than those who don’t. The benefits of a bedtime routine keep on giving in years to come, too, through improved working memory, cognitive skills and attention (not to mention improved mood, behavior and stress levels). The overall impact has implications on school readiness and success, as well as improved social skills. In short, bedtime routines pack a punch, not only preparing children for a well-rested tomorrow but also preparing them for a healthier and more regulated future.

ESTABLISH HEALTHY DAYTIME HABITS Good daytime habits lead to good nighttime habits. These include getting plenty of physical exercise, time in nature and exposure to sunlight. Children should have time to decompress after school, as well as free time to play creatively. Make sure to guard your calendar against overscheduling or hyper-structuring all waking hours.

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CARVE OUT ADEQUATE TIME Whether you have toddlers, teens or kids in between, allow adequate time for a bedtime routine. What is a bedtime routine exactly? It’s simply a designated time each evening (ideally a full hour before shutting off the lights) in which you do a set of pre-sleep activities. Activities can vary but the key is consistency, because the predictability signals your brain and body that it’s time to start winding down. Some basic bedtime routine activities include taking a warm bath, listening to calming music, reading or journaling. Rushing revs a body up, so carve out enough time and space to ensure each person can unwind. Regardless of the type of day everyone has had, an unhurried bedtime routine helps end the day on a good note.

ESTABLISH A DEDICATED BEDTIME One of the most common sleep misconceptions out there is that getting a kid “good and tired” by skipping a nap or going to bed later will make sleep come easily. But as many a parent can attest, this approach actually backfires, causing a child to be overstimulated and grumpy. If you want a child to truly sleep well, consistency trumps exhaustion. Talk to your pediatrician or consult with a sleep training program such as Taking Cara Babies to determine when your baby’s or child’s optimum sleep/wake cycles are and then stick to them like glue. This consistency will train your child’s brain to feel tired as bedtime approaches.

KICK SCREENS TO THE CURB The term “Netflix and chill” is synonymous with relaxation, but screen time of any sort before bed sends mixed messages to our brains. Electronic screens, such as tablets, phones, computers and TVs, all emit blue light, which signals the brain that it must be daytime, suppresses melatonin production and makes it more difficult to fall asleep. Keep screens out of the bedroom and, better yet, avoid screens two hours before bedtime so sleep will

come easily. Have an older child working on an online homework assignment? Make sure a red light filter is on his device and encourage him to work in a common area. Keeping all family devices at a common charging station for the night signals that quality sleep is a priority you hold in high esteem not only for your kids, but for yourself as well.

ENJOY A LIGHT SNACK Heavy meals before bedtime are notorious for causing indigestion and unnecessary trips to the bathroom, but a light snack or tea time can be just the thing for ushering in sweet dreams. Reach for a handful of cherries, grapes, nuts or oats, which all are rich in melatonin. Otherwise, brew a pot of herbal non-caffeinated tea, such as chamomile or lavender. Little ones may also enjoy a bottle or nursing session before bed—just make sure they have it before they fall asleep, so they don’t depend on eating to fall asleep.

READ Bedtime stories bond parents and their children, help build imagination, and provide relaxation and fun. Little ones can read a simple fairy tale or the same

family favorite picture book each night. As children get older, you may enjoy delving into a series of chapter books together. Need a little direction? Check out Honey for a Child’s Heart by Gladys Hunt for great lists of bedtime reads or Sarah Mackenzie’s Read Aloud Revival guide online. In the event that you lose your voice, consider using an audiobook or listening to a volunteer read your story of choice on YouTube as an “understudy” for the evening.

MAKE THE BEDROOM A SLEEP-ONLY ZONE A child’s bed has one job alone: sleep zone. Make the bedroom a sleep oasis that encourages drowsing by keeping it cool (mid 60s-71 degrees), uncluttered, unstimulating and calming. Install room darkening curtains to hide the glow of streetlights, a sound machine and a diffuser with aromatherapy, such as a good quality lavender essential oil. Lauren Greenlee takes her coffee strong each morning, regardless of the type of sleep she got the night before. She can be found homeschooling her four boys during the day and freelance writing when they hit the hay.

THE DO’S & DON’TS OF BEDTIME ROUTINES

DO DON’T

keep your routine short and sweet. The longer the routine, the harder it is to keep consistent—and consistency is key to success.

wait until your child shows signs of being tired to start the bedtime routine. Overtired children fight sleep and are harder to put down.

listen to your child’s concern. If something isn’t working, change it up. Let your little one have liberty in areas that aren’t deal breakers, such as what pajamas to wear or what book to read.

DON’T

let sleeping in on the weekends jeopardize weekday sleep routines. Sleeping in more than an hour from a usual wake time can make weekday bedtime a fight.

make gradual progressions. In preparation for travel to another time zone, seasonal time changes or a new school year, gradually make adjustments of 15 minutes each night to the start of the bedtime routine until you reach your desired goal instead of trying to shift things over one night. kcparent.com april 2022

EASY WAYS TO GO

GREEN

WITH KIDS

ou’re probably familiar with the three “Rs” (reduce, reuse and recycle). Reduce waste and water usage, recycle your bottles or cans and reuse what you’re able to. Living a greener lifestyle improves your health, air quality and preserves our planet. We’ve come up with a few ways you can put that advice to good use, not only this Earth Day, but every day of the year. Maybe that means using rechargeable batteries. Maybe you decide to borrow a book from a friend rather than purchase a brand new copy. Maybe you reach for your cup of water instead of that Aquafina bottle. Maybe you walk to the park instead of drive. Maybe you wash and reuse a spaghetti jar. Whatever you choose to do, take the easy opportunities for you and the kiddos to help the planet. Make a big difference in small ways. Incorporate green habits into your daily routine.

Opt for reusable over disposable

Plant a tree

Turn off all the lights

Bottled water is convenient, but try carrying your own reusable bottle. If authenticity motivates you, order something cute, fun or colorful off Amazon that you’ll be tempted to carry at all times. Heck, get matching bottles for you and the kids.

Pick a spot in your backyard or front yard. You don’t have to wait for Earth Day to buy a cool, new house plant. Have the kids help you water it every day and read books about how plants help us and what makes them grow.

Make it part of your nightly routine to turn off every light in the house before bed. Turn a light off when you leave the room. Open the blinds for natural sunlight during the day. Vitamin D is good for us, and you’ll conserve energy.

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Limit water usage According to National Geographic Kids, turning off the faucet when brushing your teeth can conserve up to eight gallons of water a day. Bath and shower times can be shortened significantly as well, especially if one is taken every day.

Walk instead of drive If you’re within a safe walking distance of your destination, opt for a stroll instead of a drive. Burn a few calories rather than fuel. Ride bikes with the kids. Take a walk with the wagon.

Unplug When you’re not using your phone chargers, remember to unplug them. The same goes for iPads, laptops, Apple watches or any other devices you use regularly.

Think before tossing Before throwing trash away, stop to ponder the ways you could use that item

again. For example, could that spaghetti sauce jar be cleaned out and used to store something else?

Secondhand shop Before shopping retail, try sifting through second-hand stores for good quality hand-me-down items that may work just as well as brand new ones—a great way to practice reuse.

Donate Sifting through your own clothes or kids’ toys and donating to second-hand stores is another great way to practice reuse.

Recycle school papers Kids come home with all kinds of papers, some worth saving (artwork), some worth recycling (PTA meeting notices or flyers). Sort through your kids’ backpacks every day, placing papers in a keep or recycle pile.

Cloth vs. paper Take inventory of bathroom linens. Stock up on clean hand towels rather than paper towels, for example. At the dinner table, try cloth napkins instead of paper napkins. Toss them in the washing machine after each meal. You might even opt for cloth diapers instead of disposables for your babies.

Neighborhood cleanup Go for a walk on a sunny day and pick up trash around your neighborhood (wear sanitary rubber gloves, of course). Make it a game to pick up as many pieces of trash or bottles as possible. Be sure to use hand sanitizer afterwards.

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

PRIME

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PRIME at Oakhill Day School provides independently paced high school programming for grades 9-12. It offers the best of all worlds, supportive in-person academic guidance, and a high-quality, fully-accredited online curriculum. Personalized education that meets your needs Over 100 courses available that offer all students academics relevant to their interests An innovative blend of in-person instruction and online curriculum A mission-driven environment where every student is known and valued Experiential learning that prepares students for the real world

It's PRIME time to discover education that's as unique as you are! Learn more at oakhilldayschool.org/academics/prime | 816.436.6228 Oakhill Day School will seek diversity in its student body and welcome enrollment by students of any race, color, national or ethnic origin, gender or sexual orientation, and any other characteristic protected under applicable law. It prohibits unlawful discrimination, harassment, and retaliation on the basis of any protected category under applicable federal, state or local laws or ordinances, including but not limited to Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VI), Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VII), Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967 (ADEA), Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (Title IX), the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Section 504), specifically, but not limited to, discrimination, harassment, or retaliation on the basis of sexual orientation, gender or sex, race or ethnicity, ethnic group identification, ancestry, nationality, national origin, religion, color, mental or physical disability, age, or on the basis of a person’s association with a person or group with one or more of these actual or perceived characteristics in Oakhill Day School’s educational programs or activities.

kcparent.com april 2022

TIPS TO SAVE ON YOUR GROCERY BILL One of the best habits I have for grocery shopping for a large family is menu planning.

verything seems to cost more these days, and your grocery bill more than likely reflects that. Though it may feel as though costs are mostly out of your control, there are a few simple tweaks you can make that could help save you money.

MEAL PLAN If you aren’t meal planning, you are likely spending more at the store than you need to be. Based on what you see on sale at the stores, make a list of the meals you want to make for the week. Stacey Chik, Lenexa mom of seven, shares her approach: “One of the best habits I have for grocery shopping for a large family is menu planning. I sit down each week before I shop and plan our menu by working through a spreadsheet of meals my family likes. After planning the menu, I make a list of things I need to buy. Without a doubt, menu planning and shopping from a list are the two things

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that have helped keep our grocery costs manageable, even for a family of nine.” If meal planning seems a bit daunting at first, check out EMeals.com for a free two-week trial of a customized weekly meal plan based on your store’s sales!

MAKE A LIST AND STICK TO IT Once you’ve decided what meals your family is having, you can make a list of what ingredients you will need for each meal and then cross check it with your fridge, freezer and pantry to see what items you already have. Melissa Lambert, Overland Park mom of three, says, “I send my husband to the store because he sticks to the list way better than I do and doesn’t come home with all the extras!”

CHANGE WHERE YOU SHOP It took our family a long time and multiple tries to start regularly shopping at Aldi. Audrey Hatler, Overland Park mom

of three, admits, “While I am not the best at meal planning, I do try to save money by shopping at Aldi.” Maybe it’s not Aldi you need to try, but do consider switching up your store or, at the very least, start comparing prices between stores to save yourself some money.

SHOP STORE BRANDS Instead of being “brand loyal,” check out store brands. Many of the brands you love have a less expensive store brand counterpart that can save you a significant amount of cash.

PLAN A MEATLESS OR LEFTOVER NIGHT For our family of six (though my husband isn’t always thrilled about it), I try to include a meatless meal one night a week because it’s a cheaper alternative. I almost always put a leftover night on the meal plan for the week, too. Using up leftovers helps

stretch your meals further and eliminates food waste. Chik also says, “To save money on your grocery budget, plan two simple, cheap meals a week. Pancakes and eggs, for example, is a cheap meal full of protein and delicious comfort on a cold Kansas night!”

BUY GROCERIES ONLINE With so many drive-through, pickup and online options these days, grocery shopping is more convenient than ever. “Free grocery pickup has saved us a lot of money. It keeps me out of the store where I’m extremely prone to grabbing impulse items. Another benefit is sometimes there are deals that you can only see online or in the store app,” shares Overland Park mom of two Erin Beiser.

TRACK PRICES According to Ruth Soukup, it’s helpful to keep a running list of items you regularly buy along with their pricing so you know when something is really on

sale. You can also do this to compare prices across grocery stores to know where the items you buy most often are the cheapest.

CONSIDER WHOLESALE CLUBS “We do a lot of shopping at Sam’s or Costo because buying in bulk tends to be a cost savings for items that we use larger quantities of,” says Tricia Clement, Overland Park mom of three. “Having a planned list of what is needed and not having the kids join on shopping outings also help to avoid as many unplanned additions.” Implementing all these cost saving strategies at once might overwhelm, but you can start small. Maybe this week you plan one or two meals based on sales and make a list. Or maybe your family can join Sam’s or Costco and begin bulk shopping. Whatever change you make, be consistent and faithful with it. You’ll start seeing the savings add up!

HERE ARE A FEW OTHER QUICK TIPS:

• • •

Don’t shop hungry.

•

Drink water instead of juices, sodas and specialty drinks.

• •

Shop when you are rested.

Leave children at home. Stay away from convenience stores.

Use loyalty or rewards cards.

Julie Collett writes from Overland Park where meal planning and list making for a family of six are a regular part of her week!

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kcparent.com april 2022

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Ceramic Café Ceramic Café’s summer program provides instructions on a variety of ceramic art techniques including handbuilding with clay, ceramic painting, and glass fusing. WE offer 3-day themed camps for younger kids (5-7 years old) that feature a taste of each artistic medium. Older artists (8 and up) can dive deeper with the focus of their choice. Daily sessions are longer and each day features a specific medium. Campers can choose to attend 1, 2 or all 3 days of a session. One day workshops will be added throughout

the summer. See display ad on pg. 38. www.CeramicCafeKC.org

Church of the Resurrection Save the date now to have your Kindergarten through 5th grade kiddo join us for a week at HERO University where children will experience SuperHERO lessons from the greatest HERO of all–Jesus! Join us across any of our five Resurrection locations as we watch, know, and become…like Jesus! Registration now open for volunteer leaders and opens April 1st for all. More information at www.COR.org/vbc. See display ad on pg. 43.

The Coterie Theatre School Classes and Performance Camps The Coterie offers classes for kids entering Grades K-12 at four sites: The Plaza (Pembroke Hill), Overland

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33,105

unique visitors to the virtual camp guide in 2021

104,000

First Act Whether you’re looking for on-stage or behind-the-scenes opportunities, First Act has a camp for you! Half-day camps introduce students to theatre while full-day camps allow students to act, sing, and dance through adaptations of their favorite shows. Xtreme camps cover tech, improv, stage combat, and more through popular fictional universes. For those looking for Broadway-style productions, our master camps are the place to be. Come make new friends and find your place at First Act! See display ad on pg. 39. www.FirstActKC.org

readers each month of KC Parent Magazine

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

Continued to page 36

Camp Eagle Summit and Camp Eagle Summit

May 31 - August 5, 2022

Ju n i o

Camp Eagle Summit, Jr. is for children age 2½ by July 31 (and potty-trained) through entering kindergarten in fall 2022. Camp Eagle Summit is for children entering grades 1-6 in fall 2022. $50 Application Fee ($75 after April 15) Weekly and Daily Rates Available Call 816-525-1480 or visit summit-christian-academy.org

SCA utilizes faculty and staff to facilitate the summer camp program. Program Director is Early Education Teacher Mary Kate Berck. Miss Berck has a Bachelor’s degree in General Studies with an emphasis in special education.

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

kcparent.com april 2022

CAMP WOOD CAMPS

overnight • day • horse • leadership

ACTIVITIES

archery • high ropes • boating • nature swimming • horseback riding • arts & so much more!

PARENTS TELL ALL! We think Camp Wood YMCA is the best summer camp in Kansas but don’t just take our word for it. Hear it from parents like you! Scan the QR code to discover the TOP reasons why parents send their child to Camp Wood. www.campwood.org || 620-273-8641

WHYP CAMD?! WOO

kcparent.com april 2022

CAMPGUIDE Idea Space KC Summer Program Add STEAM power to your child’s summer! At the Dan & Cassidy Towriss IDEA Space KC, students in grades 3-12 can dive into 3D art & printing, level up their esports game and venture into the world of virtual reality. They’ll invent, create and code—and have a blast learning skills that last a lifetime. Twelve camps offered June 13-July 30. Registration now open. See display ad on pg. 40. www.IdeaSpaceKC.org

Johnson County Parks and Rec From Outdoor Discovery to Just for Fun, we offer over 90 different and well-supervised camp programs conveniently located throughout Johnson County. Dedicated to providing activities that promote emotional, intellectual and physical health, our summer fun choices

kcparent.com april 2022

include nature and science, preschool enrichment, art, sports, computers, leadership development, music, theater, and dance. The options include both indoor and outdoor programs, and fulland partial-day schedules are available. For details, call 913.831.3359 or visit www.JCPRD.COM/camps. See display ad on pg. 36.

KC Parks Get ready for 10 weeks of fun at Kansas City, Missouri Parks and Recreation’s Summer Day Camps! This year, camps include educational enrichment opportunities, crafts, games, art projects, recreational sports and more--all provided in a safe and healthy environment. New in 2022 is an Inclusion Camp option for kids of all abilities. Visit www.KCParks.org for details. See display ad on pg. 43.

KC Watersports Camps are held Monday-Friday from 9:00-3:00. Our passion is teaching people how to enjoy watersports at every level. Whether you’re new to the sport and have never ridden any kind of board before to the advanced rider wanting to learn a new flip or twist our camp will fit every level of rider. Included with camp is instruction from our top-level coaches, gear, and a light lunch. Kids bring a positive attitude, swim wear, sunscreen and a towel. See display ad on pg. 38. www.KCWaterSports.com

Kansas City Zoo Make your summer a little wilder with Summer Break Camp. Camp runs June 6 through August 18. Our day camp curriculums are age appropriate and are properly chaperoned at all times.

Activities may include, but are not limited to: educational games, crafts, shows, rides, science experiments, and educational movies. Full day camps are available for ages 5-17, MondayThursday, 8:30-3:30, COST: $260. $234 for FOTZ members. Single day camps also available. See display ad on pg. 39. www.KansasCityZoo.org/day-camps June 13th - 17th (8am - 11am) Lenexa, KS

Kansas City Young Audiences Sing, Dance, Act, Make, and Play! Kansas

June 27th - July 1st (8am -11am) Blue Springs, MO

City Young Audiences offers children performing and visual arts classes, camps,

July 4th - July 8th (8am - 11am) Lee’s Summit, MO

and private instruction at their creative space on Main Street. Summer Camps & Classes: June 7–August 7. Scholarships

July 11th - July 15th (8am - 11am) Overland Park, KS

are available. 816.531.4022. See display ad on pg. 38. www.KCYA.org

Continued to page 40

Summer Drama Camps ACT! SING! DANCE! MOVIE MAKING!

SUMMER 2022

WEEK-LONG CAMPS IN OP

JUNE 6 - AUGUST 5 | TODDLER (AGE 2) - 8TH GRADE

Theatre of the

$40 OFF Lim ited on per househole d

Imagination

816-561-2787 dramakc.com

Weekly Field Trips Themed Camps Before/After Care Lunch Offerings Optional Swim Lessons Fees Start Under $50/Day

OAKHILLDAYSCHOOL.ORG/SUMMER 7019 N CHERRY STREET | GLADSTONE, MO | 64118 kcparent.com april 2022

CAMPGUIDE CAMPGUIDE

10 REASONS

WHY TEENS SHOULD WORK AT SUMMER CAMP

It Beats Any Other Summer Job. Would you rather flip burgers, wash cars or make a difference in a kid’s life? Make no bones about it—camp counseling does involve real work. But a huge component of that work is leading kids in games, crafts and sports. So, you get to have fun, set an example for a younger generation, get a huge dose of vitamin D and, did I mention, have fun.

You Get Training That Serves You Beyond Camp. Camps typically require that counselors and counselors in training (CIT’s) receive some form of specialized training, whether online or in-house, on

topics like conflict resolution and how to handle bullying or inappropriate behaviors. But camp staff are also schooled in first aid and CPR. Together, these skills can serve counselors well into their adult years.

You Get To Unplug. Working at camp is not a desk job. It involves lots of time outdoors. Counselors are also encouraged to keep unplugged from their devices, which grant them the opportunity to have a much needed screen detox. Time offline in a positive environment helps counselors develop stronger communication skills and build relationships over shared experiences and meals. K ANSAS CIT Y YOUNG AUDIENCES

Sing, Dance, Act, Make,& Play!

since 1961

June 7- August 7

Weekly CLASSES (ages 2-18) Week-long CAMPS (ages 5-13)

Learn more: KCYA.org 816.531.4022 • KCYA.org 3732 Main St., KCMO

kcparent.com april 2022

You Get to Be a Role Model. Young adults are often given a bad rap for being self-absorbed. Counseling, in contrast, requires camp staff to focus on helping others. Serving a younger generation is a win-win, giving kids someone to look up to while also helping young adults strive to be better examples. And what many camp staff come to find out is that it’s not a sacrifice to serve. In fact, being a role model feels good. “The kids challenge me in my own faith and make my spiritual relationship stronger,” Maddy Palodichuck, an ORU junior hailing form Olathe, says of her experience working at Youth Front Camp.

You Grow Strong Leadership Skills. Whether directing staff meetings or managing kids activities, there’s no doubt about it: Camp counselors enjoy their fair share of leadership opportunities. For some staff, this brings to light natural abilities. For others, it provides an opportunity to grow a new skill set. Regardless of a teen’s personality or bent, every young adult is better for having the chance to be in charge of something. One of the biggest leadership abilities counselors gain is public speaking skills. Seldom do teens have the opportunity to command a large audience of students. At camp, counselors can do so in silly and zany ways, which not only engages campers, but takes the edge off of most people’s biggest fear (public speaking).

You Get Paid to Have Fun. A big component of being an effective counselor is creating an environment that fosters joy and enthusiasm. In short, if you want the kids in your cabin to have fun, you have to show them how to do it! Counselors are not only leaders and role models, but they also get to be big kids and risk takers.

It means showing off your inner goof by launching off the Blob or channeling your inner diva during karaoke. When you take your guard down and show kids it’s alright to take risks, you give them the freedom to do the same. Perfection isn’t the goal. Bravery is.

The Dress Code Is to Die For. At camp, every day is casual Friday, and the uniform of choice is typically some variation of a t-shirt, athletic shorts and Chacos. And who can forget the fun themes that transpire over the course of a camp week—wacky Wednesday, anyone?

You’ll Forge Deep Friendships. If you were a camper growing up, then you know how special camp friendships can be. Being a counselor is no different. Camp staff are a diverse group, with counselors coming from other schools, churches, states and nations. Working at camp, you can expect to make a broad range of friendships built over time spent living, working and playing together.

You’ll Build a Resume and Good Interview Material. Working at camp shows you what you’re made of. You’ll mediate middle school meltdowns, be pushed to your physical limits with late night activities and early morning wake-up calls, all while making a mean friendship bracelet. Counselors develop increased self-awareness (both their strengths and weaknesses) while having an out-of-the-box summer work experience.

You’ll Develop a Whole New Appreciation for Your Own Mentors. “Serving as a camp counselor makes me so much more appreciative of my own youth leaders,” Alex Morehead, a college junior from St. Joseph, MO, says. “They chose to make diligent, purposeful efforts to ensure that I had countless exciting and enriching experiences. Now I hope to do the same for others.” Lauren Greenlee lives in Olathe and is the daughter of a camp director who spent every summer leading up to high school graduation at summer camp.

You Belong at First Act this Summer!

On Stage & Backstage Camps Locations Across the KC Metro

OUR CAMPS Half-Day Camps (Ages 5-7) Songs, dances, games, and more Welcome to Arendelle Welcome to the Chocolate Factory Full-Day Camps (Ages 7-12 & 10-14) A shortened adaptation of a show in a week Frozen Kids Willy Wonka Kids Schoolhouse Rock Live Jr. Xtreme Camps (Ages 10-16) Tech theatre, stage combat, improv, and original scripts in your favorite fictional universe Clash of the Titans Legends in the Force War of the Norse Drama Camp (Ages 14-19) Performance and behind-thescenes options Our Town Middle School Overnight Camp (Ages 11-14) A Broadway-style show in 1 week Freaky Friday One Act Edition High School Overnight Camp (Ages 14-18) A fully-staged musical in a week The Drowsy Chaperone

913-681-3318

firstactkc.org

Full day camps available for ages 5-17 June 6 - August 18 Monday-Thursday, 8:30am-3:30pm

www.KansasCityZoo.org/day-camps kcparent.com april 2022

CAMPGUIDE Leawood Parks The City of Leawood Parks, Recreation & Arts department is offering a variety of summer camps for all ages and interests! Join us for creative and engaging art camps, fun and active sports camps, half-day outdoor camps, STEM camps including an awesome rocket launch camp, and curiosity inspiring nature camps. Hurry, these camps fill up FAST. Reservations are now open, visit www. Leawood.org or call 913.663.1954 to register today. See display ad on pg. 32.

Music House Five days of life-enhancing arts experiences. You can join a band, put on a show, make a music video, try a new instrument, write a song, and much more. Options for absolute beginners through experienced players

ages 6-17. Regardless of what you choose, you’re sure to learn a lot about thinking independently while working cooperatively. And you’re going to have fun in the process. Enroll online at www.MusicHouseSchool.com/summercamps. See display ad on pg. 33.

Oakhill Day School Every day is a vacation at Oakhill Fully Charged! Our flexible weekly themed day camps for campers ages two years old - Middle School are a high-energy combination of play and creativity! Embark on a journey of what summer should be through field trips, camp-wide water balloon fights, trips to the pool, and more from our fantastic crew of Fully Charged counselors! Enroll online: www.OakhillDaySchool.org/summer. See display ad on pg. 37.

SOAR Special Needs SOAR Special Needs Summer Day Camp is open for all individuals with special needs ages 3 y/o and older. We offer camp in-person from 9:00–4:00 Monday through Friday in Lee’s Summit, Overland Park, and Gladstone. This year our camp theme is SOARing for the Son–Space theme! We cannot wait to enjoy a variety of fun activities including outdoor games, craft, sensory, missions, storytime, and more. Register now at www.SOARSpecialNeeds.org. See display ad on pg. 42.

Summer at Barstow Kansas City’s favorite summer camps for kids ages 3-14! Choose from 600+ offerings. Campers love Summer at Barstow’s action-packed adventures in creative arts, athletics, academics and Continued to page 42

kcparent.com april 2022

CAMPGUIDE STEAM, plus field trips to the city’s best attractions. Parents love our experienced instructors, 4:1 camper-to-staff ratio and extended care options. Summer at Barstow offers camps for every budget, age, interest and schedule. May 23-Aug. 12. View catalog & enroll at www.BarstowSchool.org/summer. Email summer@barstowschool.org or call 816.277.0445 for more information. See display ad pg. 35.

Summer at Pembroke Hill Summer at Pembroke Hill offers a comprehensive summer camp that provides a variety of academic, athletic and enriching classes that always include an element of fun! Open to all students ages 2 through 18. Registration now open! Classes have limited enrollment, so you are encouraged to enroll early and ONLINE

at www.PembrokeHill.org. See display ad on pg. 42.

Theatre of the Imagination Acting! Singing! Dancing! Movie Making! Fun & flexible week-long camps. 1st-8th, no previous experience needed. No auditions, no leads and small class sizes. Free shows & free costumes. Unicorns, Space Warriors, Larry Spotter, Robot Sharks, Ninjas, Fairy Tale Princesses, Rock Stars and more! Mention KC Parent & get $40 off, (some restrictions apply). See display ad pg. 37. www.DramaKC.com

Tiger Rock Martial Arts Train all summer at Tiger Rock’s Martial Arts Summer Camp. For only $189, you can spend your summer training at our studio. Fee includes summer training uniform and belt and unlimited martial arts lessons. Hurry! You must register

for this offer by June 1. Classes fill up every summer, so register today! 913.829.8818 (Olathe) or 913.851.5050 (Overland Park). See display ad on pg. 33. KCTigerRock.com

Victory Soccer Camp Victory Soccer Camp provides quality soccer instruction in a fun and exciting environment. Children learn to combine excellence in sports with a focus on the fundamentals of the game, skills and understanding of the game. Our curriculum is designed for every player to be challenged according to their age level. Our camp is for students with all levels of athletic ability. Every camper is encouraged to live with good character qualities through our daily Bible Half-time. See display ad on pg. 37. VictoryInSoccer.org

Summer at Pembroke Hill Ec

preschool pals

Re Fm

Reggio Emilia

fine motor

grossology

outdoor play

basketball

water play

volleyball

baseball

stop motion

Lego building

July 11-15

at Abundant Life Church in Lee’s Summit, MO

reading skills

math

fort building

dance

zombies

Spanish

creative writing

robotics

alphabet

cooking

printmaking

engineering

summer kick-off

rock climbing

number lines

csi:phs

gardening

rainforest

chess

multicultural

Open for individuals with special needs ages 3 y/o & older www.SOARspecialneeds.org

Transtion to K science

Cuisenaire Rods

transition

mythology

Chinese

journalism

steam lab

dinosaurs

string art

yoga

acting

tye dye

book creators

rhyming

lunch bunch

sports sampler

mindfulness

home renovation summer kick-off welcome classes

Fs En Ge Bb Rs Ss Nw Tm Mr Fa As Dd Ms Ro Ma Mp Alg Al Tu Vr St Gm Ue On Ew Ac Us middle schoool

robotics

math review

Finance

SAT Verbal Prep

study skills

art studio

geometry

Dissection

Ukraine Eggs

online

forensic science

English review

essay writing

athletic camps

geometry

bridge building

Sat Math Prep

rocket science

study skills

newswriting

audition lab

Transition to MS

Transition to US

Where there is always an element of fun!

at Antioch Bible Baptist Church in Gladstone, MO

at Grace Church South Campus in Overland Park, KS

kcparent.com april 2022

grammar mystery

music

July 25-29

July 18-22

ninja warrior

fairy tales

upper schoool

9am-4pm CST each day

CoterieTheatre

coding

Ba Wt Sm Le Csi Ga S U M M E R Re Ch Mc Td Bc Rh Vo Bb Ft A T P E M B R O K E Lb Sp Mn Fo My Ch Jm Sl H I L L Di Sa Yo Ac Hr So Wc football

It’s time for SOAR’s Day Camp!

lower schoool

minecraft

Se Od sensory

kindergarten kindergarten

Cc Mu Ab Sc Tk summer Mc Cw Co Pr En Cr Gr Ct Nw Gm Rd Ma Fo Da Za Sp Ro Ko Rc Nl Tk

EL PP

early learners

Kg Ka

early childhood

Enrollment for the Summer at Pembroke Hill program is now open! Classes are available to all students ages 2-18. Enroll online today at www.pembrokehill.org

Kindergarten– 5th Grade

Join us for a week at HERO University where children will experience Super-HERO lessons from the greatest HERO of all – Jesus! Scan QR code to get notified when registration opens

June 6 – August 12, 2022

NEW THIS YEAR! Inclusion Day Camp for kids of all abilities at Marlborough Community Center

Join us for summer camp at one of our KC Parks & Recreation community centers. 7:30 a.m. Ͳ 5:30 p.m. • Monday Ͳ Friday • Ages 6 Ͳ 13 Day Camp: $80/week Hillcrest • Kansas City North • Southeast Tony Aguirre • Westport Roanoke • St. Patrick’s School

KCPARKS.ORG

20% discount if paid in full by May 1. Financial assistance available.

kcparent.com april 2022

CONNECTING wit h

KINDNESS Y

ou’ve seen the overwhelmed mom out and about, carrying a kid on her hip, balancing coffee and pushing an overloaded shopping cart. She’s rushing to throw handfuls of snacks in before her other child loses his patience. The best gift a stranger could give to her in that moment (other than a spa day and a five-hour nap), would be to let her cut in at the checkout line.

kcparent.com april 2022

I once saw a mother at the zoo pushing a stroller with two crying kiddos who probably felt self-conscious until another mom exclaimed, “You’re doing a great job, Mama!” That sentiment was exactly what she—and most all moms—needed to hear in that moment. I read a social media post that detailed how an anonymous friend left a box of doughnuts and iced coffee on the front porch of a busy, sleep-deprived mom with two young children one weekend morning. Needless to say, she was grateful. I’ve been lucky enough to be on the receiving end of kind gestures like this as well. Just recently, a stranger cut in front of the drive-thru line to pay for my Starbucks order. An Old Navy cashier told me I brightened her day. A stranger at Target told me I just looked like a good mom. Parenting is a hard job, and some days a kind word or thoughtful gesture is all it takes to lift a person’s spirits. Why not extend that kindness to complete strangers? Someone you don’t even know is having a particularly tough day or week, and a random, intentional act of kindness will spark joy in her life. We have compiled a sweet, simple list of ways to connect with kindness because we think the world could use more of that!

EASY IDEAS FOR KIDS

MAKE SOMEONE’S DAY

• Ask your teacher what you can do to help.

• Compliment a colleague.

• Give someone a nice compliment.

• Let someone go ahead of you in line.

• Hang out with someone who needs a friend.

• Mail a thank you note to a teacher.

• Pick up five pieces of trash at recess. • Give someone your best smile.

• Give a social media shout-out to a small business.

• Write the office secretary a thank you note.

• Bake cookies for a neighbor.

• Read to a sibling.

• Encourage someone.

• Do an extra chore.

• Help clean up a mess.

• Make a bird feeder.

• Sponsor a child. • List five things you admire about a coworker’s character and leave it on his or her desk anonymously.

SHARE THE WEALTH

DO SOMETHING AS A FAMILY

• Stick a $5 gift card on someone’s windshield.

• Collect items for an animal shelter.

• Leave a generous tip on a small bill.

• Donate blood (if the kids are old enough).

• Order pizza for the entire office.

• Bring a donation box to your local church or a shelter.

• Buy someone’s groceries. • Pay for someone’s Starbucks order. • Deliver doughnuts to a neighbor with young kids. • Anonymously cover someone’s bill at a restaurant. • Schedule a DoorDash delivery to a friend’s house.

• Bake cookies to deliver and share with Grandma and Grandpa. • Volunteer at a school event. • Take a nature walk and pick up trash. (With gloves on or using something to pick up contaminated pieces, of course. Safety first!) • Return a stray dog to its owner.

Emily Morrison is a freelance writer, former copy editor, full-time mommy and Disney fanatic who lives in Independence with her husband, son, daughter and dog. kcparent.com april 2022

party

KC Parent’s

guide

• fresh ideas • terrific themes • great venues

Where fun

TAKES FLIGHT! With attractions that cater to any level of adventurer, there’s something fun for everyone. Both locations now open

UrbanAirLenexa.com

8554 Maurer Road • Lenexa, KS 66219 • (913) 359-5800

UrbanAirOverlandPark.com

14401 Metcalf Ave • Overland Park, KS 66223 • (913) 298-0626

46 april 2022

kcparent.com

Kansas City Zoo Let the Kansas City Zoo host your child’s next birthday party. We guarantee a wild time for every guest! We are currently offering birthday party options on weekends. Zoo admission and rides wristbands are available as an add-on. You are welcome to provide your own décor, food, and activities. Visit KansasCityZoo.org/birthdays to join us for a celebration like no other! See display ad on pg. 49.

Mission Bowl Mission Bowl has been serving the community since 1958. We have hosted several generations of families for all types of birthday parties, from the 2-year-olds to the spunky seniors and everyone in between. We hope your family will be the next

to join us in celebrating your next upcoming birthday. All you have to do in invite the guests and let us do the rest including cleaning up the mess!! See display ad on pg. 47. MissionBowl.com

Movies2U Roll out the red carpet and celebrate that special occasion with a movie! Round up the kids to watch their favorite movie on one of our largerthan-life inflatable screens. Throw in our popcorn machine and the effect will be complete. The kids won’t forget it and you’ll love it as our professional staff takes care of every detail. One of our 4 differently sized screens is sure to fit your occasion and budget. See display ad on pg. 50. Movies2U.com

Princess at My Party Have your child’s favorite character come to the birthday party! Choose from Raya, Elsa, Anna, Rapunzel, Moana, Elena, Ariel, Belle, Sleeping Beauty, Cinderella, Jasmine and Snow White. Also, inquire about our Super Girl, Wonder Woman or Bat Girl parties! Watch the magic unfold as the children go on an adventure that includes a story, games, music, a makeover or face painting and a treasure hunt. See display ad on pg. 49. 816.830.4841. PrincessAtMyParty.com

locations. Party also includes rental gear and a private party room for cake and presents, feel free to decorate it to fit your theme! Every birthday deserves the gift of adventure. See display ad on pg. 51. ClimbKC.com

Urban Air Adventure Park Urban Air Adventure Parks in Lenexa and Overland Park continue to be voted Best Kids Birthday Party Place year after year. It’s the perfect place for indoor stress-free birthday parties for all ages. More than just a trampoline park, Urban Air has

RoKC

something for everyone. Let the kids

Celebrate your little climber’s birthday with RoKC! Enjoy your two-hour party for 10-15 climbers with your own birthday party attendant and private climbing instructor! Parties are available at both our Olathe, KS and North KC, MO

fly through the park on our sky rider, take on our climbing walls, or reach new heights on our trampolines. Urban Air. Let ‘em fly. See display ad on pg. 46. UrbanAirLenexa.com, UrbanAirOverlandPark.com

THE ULTIMATE ALL-NEW

BIRTHDAY PARTY GUIDE FOR KANSAS CITY

Bowling Birthday Parties

200+

PARTY VENUES AND PARTY ENTERTAINERS

X Strike X

$90.00 per Lane (package)

• 2 Hour Party for 5 • Shoe Rental for 5 • Large Single Topping Pizza

• 5 Small Soft Drinks

• Tablecloth, Plates, •

Napkins, Balloons, NEON Bowling Pin 5 Goodie Bags

e guest You invite th the rest... we do

Mission Bowl

CHECK IT OUT AT

1020 S. Weaver St. Olathe, KS 66061 (913) 782-0279 missionbowl.com

KCPARENT.COM! kcparent.com april 2022

PARTYGUIDE

Throw Birthday Parties Like a Boss!

tress-free parties? To many busy moms, this sounds like a dream instead of reality. But the dream is attainable simply with a bit of planning and a focus on your child’s specific interests. When you let those be your guide, everything will fall into place a lot faster. For example, if your son or daughter is into the Kansas City Chiefs, that is a direct lead into the cake, games and snacks for your party. Many baking shops have football-shaped pans, and of course, you can have a Mahomes hair cake created locally! Schedule a tour of Arrowhead Stadium for the activity. They offer scheduled tours every Friday at 2:00 and 4:00. Bring a small group for a tour, and it will be the best photo op ever. Create a montage for each child to keep forever. With the recent Super Bowl win, this is a popular choice. If you are planning a party for tween girls, make sure you do some tricks to keep everyone happy and minimize drama. Set

48 april 2022

kcparent.com

boundaries by making a cute sign with a smiley face saying, “You are entering the ‘no drama zone.”’ The girls will repeat the phrase and find the thought amusing. Consider unplugging computers and collecting cell phones at a certain time, and make sure to discuss with your child movie choices that will appeal to everyone. When the party includes an outing, like visiting a pizza place or bowling alley, create a list of names of selected children to go in each car. Tell the children there will be no negotiations or special requests. Do make sure no one is feeling left out throughout the party time. Most of all, smile, laugh and be optimistic yourself. You have an ideal opportunity to model some important things to these youngsters: flexibility, friendliness and the ability to laugh at oneself. Foster these traits in your own kids, too, so that when you send them off to a party, you won’t have to worry.

Once, I included everyone’s dog in a party for both my kiddos, whose birthdays fall in September. We got a birthday cake from a local pet store with carob chocolate and dog-friendly ingredients and had plastic swimming pools around the yard so the pups could swim and play. The children loved it and because it was outdoors, that’s where the mess stayed. Playing fetch and having a puppy theme were a hit. The “people” cake was shaped like a dog bone, and party favors were bags of puppy chow. You can find that recipe online. Do make sure each dog is social and used to being around other dogs. Consider planning an experience instead of a party, as I mentioned earlier about the Arrowhead Stadium tours. Give your child the option of taking several friends on an outing, such as the movies, bowling, local theme park, arcade, indoor rock climbing or the pool, depending on the season. An outing with a small group of friends is much

less chaotic than a big party and requires almost no effort. Children often enjoy and bond with their close friends more when there aren’t so many people running about. Whatever you do, if you have the party at home, keep the food simple. Lunch can be PB&J. If you do want pizza, ask for a school cut that features smaller slices, since kids often don’t finish their slice anyway. Another option is to plan the party before or after lunch or dinner, so you don’t feel obligated to provide a full meal. Let each child help when it comes to party favors. For example, paint or tie-dye t-shirts, decorate cupcakes or make slime. This gives kids an activity to enjoy and then take home. They stay busy, and you save on goody bags! Remember, you can always use items you have around your house. Create fun stations from toys you already have, such as a sports station with basketballs, soccer balls, tennis rackets and balloons. Or play dress-up and set out play clothes and other dress items

Once, I included everyone’s dog in a party for both my kiddos, whose birthdays fall in September. We got a birthday cake from a local pet store with carob chocolate and dog-friendly ingredients and had plastic swimming pools around the yard so the pups could swim and play. you already have. Water fun is always a hit, with squirt guns, water balloons and kitchen sponges. Who says you must have a birthday cake? Ask your child what he or she would like and go from there. Suggest root beer floats— purchase plastic cups for serving, and each child can take one home as a favor. Scoop ice cream into the cups the day before and store them in the freezer, then let party guests choose their favorite flavor of soda to make their float. Keep your party-planning self on track by always asking yourself whether your ideas will make your child have a better birthday. Looking at Pinterest may be exciting, but,

chances are, children won’t care about much of that. Most would much rather enjoy a happy, present mom at the party than a burned-out, stressed mom who stayed up all night cutting out perfect food labels the kids can’t even read. Spend time on what matters to your child and leave the rest alone. An avid outdoors girl, Judy Goppert lives in Lee’s Summit. She enjoys drawing on her personal experiences to write about the nuances of everything wonderful about life. Sources: StressFreeKids.com, Simply-Well-Balanced.com, EverydayFamily.com.

P rincess at my Party

Have your favorite princess at your party!

Visit www.kansascityzoo.org/birthdays to plan your party today!

Parties Include: Story Games Facepaint Music Prizes & More

Rachel Johnson

rachel@princessatmyparty.com

816.830.4841

www.princessatmyparty.com kcparent.com april 2022

PARTYGUIDE

Have a Happy Birthday! Budget-Friendly Birthday Ideas That Make Your Child Feel Special

he day your child was born is a day to celebrate and make him feel special. Birthday parties are fun but they can be a lot of work, and the costs can quickly add up. Whether you decide to host a birthday party every year, every other year or skip it to cut down on costs, these ideas are sure to make your child’s birthday special.

Create anticipation As the birthday approaches, build anticipation by talking about it and planning what the day will hold. You can create a special countdown by making a paper chain and tearing off one link per day or even just counting down the number of days on a chalkboard in your home. Explain that although there will not be a big birthday party this year, a lot of fun things are planned.

Make the cake A great way to save money on a birthday celebration is to make the cake yourself. Choose flavors and colors or themes your child loves and get siblings involved in

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the preparation. Kids typically don’t care about whether the cake is perfectly decorated; they are happy with a cake that is made just for them.

Balloon avalanche When your child goes to sleep the night before her birthday, decorate the house with balloons or birthday decor. Try taping a disposable tablecloth to the outside of the door jam and fill the space between with balloons. When your child opens the door, she will be greeted with a balloon avalanche sure to put a big smile on her face.

Kid’s choice When you are planning the day, consider your child’s favorites. Plan the day’s meals around the foods your youngster loves. Choose things that you typically do not serve to make the day more special. If you will go on an outing or if you will be dining out, let the birthday kid choose the location.

Document the day Create a list of questions to ask your child on his birthday such as “Who is your best friend?” or list TV shows, songs, foods, etc. Record the answers in a safe place and repeat each year. It’s fun to look back and see how your child has changed and matured over the years.

Tell the story Kids love to hear stories about the day they were born, the cute things they did as a baby or how you prepared for their arrival. Spend part of the day telling favorite stories about your child—he is sure to love it.

Have others reach out Ask friends and family to wish your child a happy birthday with calls, texts, messages or cards. Consider talking to family members via Skype. This will help your child know that others are celebrating her, even if you aren’t hosting a big birthday party this year.

We parents often feel like spending a lot is the best way to make our child’s birthday special, but this is truly not the case. With a little extra planning, your child’s day can be just as special as any expensive party.

Ways to Celebrate Without a Party

• Go to the movies. • Visit an amusement park. • Have dinner out at a favorite spot. • Go bowling. • Take a day trip to a neighboring town. • Attend a sporting event. • Be a tourist for the day in your hometown, visiting the zoo or other local attractions.

• Let your child pick a place to visit.

Sarah Lyons is a stay-at-home mom to six children. Some years her kids celebrate their birthdays with a party and other years they choose to celebrate in other ways.

kcparent.com april 2022

Parks for All!

pring is here, and that means it’s a great day to visit the park! We’re fortunate our city is home to many

wonderful parks that are inclusive and accessible for all children. While many parks offer accessible parking and sidewalks, often the playground equipment lacks accessibility. The parks on this list feature equipment that’s inclusive for all children to enjoy. Each of these parks features smooth surfaces, accessible parking and restrooms and fun features to enjoy:

Midtown and Downtown VARIETY KC EXPLORATION PLAY: 6800 Zoo Dr., Kansas City, MO. The Kansas City Zoo holds the honor of being the first zoo to provide an inclusive playground. Located in the Africa section of the zoo, the playground includes a zip line with a companion harness, an accessible swing and smooth surfacing. There is also a quiet zone area where you can check out weighted blankets and noise-canceling headphones. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR., SQUARE PARK: Swope Parkway & Woodland Avenue, Kansas City, MO. The area is packed with colorful components, including three towers, swings, climbing nets, suspended walkway, jumping pods, spinners, embankment mound, climbing area, merry-go-round and a section with age-appropriate play equipment. SYBIL SILKWOOD NUTTER INCLUSIVE PLAYGROUND: Gillham Road & E. 22nd Street, Kansas City, MO. Located in Hospital Hill Park at Children’s Mercy, this playground contains plenty of space for children with wheelchairs or IV poles to access the equipment. Its soft foam floor is easy to traverse, and its fence prevents small children from wandering off. A communication board for nonverbal children provides an inclusive atmosphere for all. SHEILA KEMPER DIETRICH PARK: E. 27th Street & Gillham Road, Kansas City, MO. This 60-year-old park near Crown Center is beloved for its sea dragon and pirate ship theme. This park has been upgraded to feature concrete sidewalks and ramps for wheelchairs and new equipment.

Johnson County SHAWNEE MISSION PARK PLAYGROUND: 7900 Renner Rd., Shawnee. This playground’s star features are its musical toys, colorful pathway and accessible swings and metal slides. In addition to containing wheelchair-friendly ramps and surfaces, the park is fenced, has accessible bathrooms and includes a water mister. COLLEGE BOULEVARD ACTIVITY CENTER PLAYGROUND: 11031 S. Valley Pkwy., Olathe. This Variety KC playground, adjacent to the accessible ball fields for the Miracle League, a sports league where children of all abilities play baseball, is a fun and inclusive place to play. With ramps, smooth surfaces and equipment that can be enjoyed by children in wheelchairs, this park is a treasure in Johnson County.

Sybil Silwood Nutter Inclusive Playground

STILWELL COMMUNITY PARK: 6402 W. 207th St., Stillwell, KS. The grounds at this park provide easy access to adaptive swings, a sensory area and a water mister. OVERLAND PARK JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER PLAYGROUND: 5801 W. 115th St., Leawood. To respect those in wheelchairs, this playground offers smooth surfaces and low platforms as transfer stations so those using wheelchairs can lift themselves onto playground equipment. A unique feature is the Braille panels and other play panels with interesting textures or fragrances. The playground is enclosed with a fence. LEAWOOD CITY PARK: 10601 Lee Blvd., Leawood. Variety KC opened the newest inclusive playground in the metro at Leawood City Park. Royals Charities and Variety of Greater Kansas City joined to unveil a new adaptive playground at Leawood City Park. The all-inclusive playground has been designed so both children and adults can play together regardless of their physical or mental abilities.

Northland

Tiffany Hills Park

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TIFFANY HILLS PARK: 9400 N. Congress Ave., Kansas City, MO. This pirate-themed playground is designed to meet the needs of all children. The playground includes ramps to access the equipment, metal slides for children with cochlear implants, accessible swings, sensory panels for touch and sound, as well as fencing to keep the children safe.

Southland MEMORIAL PARK: 998 Commercial St., Belton. This inclusive playground is enjoyed by children of all abilities. The playground offers ramps to the equipment. PLAYGROUND & SPLASH PAD AT T.B. HANNA STATION: 214 S. Washington St., Raymore. The playground’s amenities include musical instruments, a merry-go-round and communication boards. If your children want to cool off, they can head over to the splash pad, which features a train with a tunnel wide enough for wheelchair-users to pass through. The splash pad also contains colorful light-up spray jets, overhead sprinklers and splash buckets. During the winter months, children can skate at the park’s ice rink! RECREATION PARK: 1011 S. Madison St., Raymore. Recreation Park’s newest playground features smooth surfaces, ramps and shade. Children will love going down the many slides, playing with the musical pieces, whirling on the merry-go-round and riding the four-person seesaw.

Eastern Jackson County

Playground & Splash Pad at T.B. Hanna Station

MCCOY PARK: 800 N. Bess Truman Pkwy., Independence. This pioneerthemed inclusive park offers a playground accessible to children and caregivers of all abilities. The playground features ramps on the equipment, adaptive swings, as well as toddler and saucer swings, and stainless steel slides and roller slides to enable children with cochlear implants to enjoy. The sensory rich environment also incorporates musical elements, such as tuned drums and aluminum chimes, and interactive panels to spark problem-solving and teamwork. In addition, the playground is fenced—a favorite feature for parents of little ones. LEGACY PARK: 1201 NE Legacy Park Dr., Lee’s Summit. The LSPR accessible playground is located at Legacy Park Shelter 3. The playground includes ramps, accessible swings, smooth surfaces and accessible parking.

West FIELD OF DREAMS: N. 126th St., Bonner Springs. At this baseball-themed playground, children can get their own ticket at the ticket booth, run around the bases and enjoy the wide variety of play equipment—including slides, accessible swings, an accessible merry-go-round and musical instruments. The park also contains ramps and foam surfacing.

McCoy Park

BONUS! Indoor Facility WE ROCK THE SPECTRUM: 7601 NW Roanridge Rd., Kansas City, MO The gym includes • Suspended equipment with swings for balance and vestibular treatment. • Crash mats and crash pillows for fun, motor planning and strength. • Zip line for stress release and joint and body relaxation. • Trampoline for building leg and core strength. • Indoor play structure for climbing and increasing playground skills. • Sensory-based toys for improved auditory processing and fine motor skills. • Fine motor and arts and crafts area for improved hand-eye coordination.

Kansas City mom Kristina Light enjoys exploring parks with her daughters.

We Rock the Spectrum kcparent.com april 2022

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FOR EVEN

MORE EVENTS, HEAD TO THE ONLINE CALENDAR AT KCPARENT.COM.

No part of this calendar may be reproduced in print or web format. Please call to verify event details.

CALENDAR

Pete the Cat at the Coterie.

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see

watch

celebrate

play

The Coterie presents Pete the Cat through May 17. With its Beach Boys musical vibe and ’60s feel, this show will have everyone in the family strumming and strutting. TheCoterie.org

The Culture House presents Disney’s High School Musical April 1-3. Bring the kids and enjoy the beloved show that’s fun for the whole family. CultureHouse.com

Dive for eggs at an Underwater Easter Egg Hunt on April 15 at the Lenexa Rec Center. Search for eggs and exchange them for candy and prizes! Pre-reg at Lenexa.com/getactive.

Head to the Kansas City Zoo April 23 for Party for the Planet. Learn about conservation, watch a movie and enjoy fun, interactive and educational activities! KansasCityZoo.org

On April 30 head to Worlds of Fun for Opening Day. From the big thrill of the Patriot and Mamba to the little thrills of Planet Snoopy, Worlds of Fun has it all. WorldsOfFun.com

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

Adult Easter Egg Hunt 7:00, Hidden Valley Sports Complex. Enjoy time by the fire before heading out for the hunt, where you can win raffle prizes. Pre-reg at 816.228.0137.

Patterns in Painting 10:00 or 2:00, Nerman Museum. Learn about patterns in art and create a watercolor resist painting. Ages 5-7. Pre-reg at NermanMuseum.org.

Family Night Hike 7:30, Ernie Miller. On this guided night hike, visit the habitats as the sun sets and the animals of the night explore the darkness. Pre-reg at 913.826.2800.

Mother Nature Reads 10:00, Lakeside Nature Center. Nature themed story time for little ones in the library on the first Saturday. LakesideNatureCenter.org

2 Saturday

Birds: Nests Are the Best Various sessions, Anita B Gorman Discovery Center. Join a naturalist on a hike to discover a variety of nests built by different birds. Pre-reg at 816.759.7300.

Homeschool Conference Today & tomorrow, KCI Expo Center. We’ve got something for everyone from the veteran homeschooler to those new to homeschooling. MidwestHomeschoolers.org

Farmers Market 8:00, Downtown Lee’s Summit. Purchase a variety of fresh produce, plants, meat, baked goods, handmade crafts and more. DowntownLS.org

Disney’s High School Musical Thru Sunday, TCH Olathe Conservatory. Enjoy the beloved show that’s fun for the whole family. CultureHouse.com

Farmers Market 9:00, Independence Uptown Market. Shop for locally grown foods and a variety of handcrafted items. CI.Independence.mo.us

The Miracle Worker Thru Sunday, City Theatre of Independence. Annie Sullivan forms a bond with Helen Keller and shows her ways of reaching others. CityTheatreOfIndependence.org

Easter Egg Dive 9:00, the View Community Center. Race to gather as many eggs as possible in hopes of finding the special egg! Pre-reg at GrandviewParks.org.

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

Girl Scout Day 9:30, Kansas City Zoo. Girls in branded apparel will receive a free admission. Participate in activity stations. KansasCityZoo.org

How the Three Little Kittens Lost Their Mittens 11:00, Puppetry Arts Institute. Meet the characters of this classic nursery rhyme and their mitten escapades. PuppetryArtsInstitute.org Father Daughter Dance 6:00, Dusty Shelf Barn (Greenwood). Enjoy “Boots and Beauties,” presented by Greenwood Parks and Rec. Pre-reg at GreenwoodMO.com.

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

kcparent.com april 2022

The Texas Tenors April 10, Yardley Hall. A mix of timeless classics along with hand-clapping country favorites performed by the versatile tenors. JCCC.edu/Midwest-Trust-Center

Free Afternoon Program 1:30, Prairie Park Nature Center. Free program for the family may include video, slideshow and going outside to enjoy nature. LawrenceKS.org Pete the Cat 2:00, the Coterie. With its Beach Boys musical vibe and ’60s feel, this show will have everyone in the family strumming and strutting. TheCoterie.org

4 Monday Gym for Me 9:00, Lenexa Community Center. Play items are available, including push toys, riding toys, balls and inflatables. Lenexa.com Sensory-Friendly Days 9:00, Johnson County Museum. Limited occupancy session for kids with sensory processing differences and autism spectrum disorders. Pre-reg at JCPRD.com. Story Time for Families 10:00, various branches (MCPL). Hear stories, sing songs, join in movement activities and create memories together. Pre-reg at MyMCPL.org.

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5 Tuesday Drive-Thru History Tuesdays 9:00, Missouri Town 1855. Drive into Missouri Town to explore the village and visit with our living history interpreters. MakeYourDayHere.com Preschool Indoor Playground 9:30, Irene B French Community Center. Too rainy to play in the park? Ride, slide and play inside! Parents supervise children. Merriam.org/park Peter Rabbit, the Musical 10:00, Theater for Young America. While his sisters pursue the finer things, Peter sneaks off to Mr McGregor’s garden. TYA.org Life’s Little Lessons with Daniel Tiger 10:00, Virtual. Lessons to help your little tiger manage everyday social and emotional challenges. Pre-reg at Events.KansasCityPBS.org.

Kids Media Mix-Up 4:30, Albrecht-Kemper Museum. Put your imagination to work by using different mediums to create artwork. Ages 6-12. Pre-reg at Albrecht-Kemper.org.

6 Wednesday All School Open House at the Barstow School. Learn about the academic, artistic and athletic offerings, speak with faculty, parents, students and more! Pre-reg at BarstowSchool.org.

Open Gym 9:30, Kaw Prairie Community Church. Grab a coffee from the coffee shop and hang out with friends while your kiddos get their energy out! KawPrairie.org Animal Tales Story Time 10:30, Ernie Miller Nature Center. Listen to a story and meet a special animal friend. Today’s theme: Silly Spider. 913.826.2800 Family Night 5:00, Lenexa Public Market. Bring the gang for free activities like a balloon artist, coloring pages, classic board games and more! Grab a bite to eat, too. LenexaPublicMarket.com Weekly Life on the Farm Tour 5:30, Colonial Gardens. Activities may include feeding the chickens, hugging an alpaca or holding a baby goat! ColonialGardensKC.com Discover Nature: 7:00, Burr Oak Woods Nature Center. Love a good campfire? Grab your squad and come out for nature-focused outdoor trivia. Ages 16+. Pre-reg at MDC.MO.gov.

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

Pay for Play 10:00, Backyard Specialists. Plan a playdate for your children and their friends at the amazing showroom! BackyardSpecialists.com Animal Tales and Trails Thru May 1, Crown Center. Free exhibit where children learn what it’s like to prowl in an animal’s wild world. CrownCenter.com

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

Tulips at Twilight 7:00, Old Prairie Town (Topeka). See Old Prairie Town come alive with floral displays and thousands of illuminated tulips. Parks.snco.us Neil Berg’s 50 Years of Rock ’N‘ Roll 8:00, Yardley Hall. Enjoy the show that pays tribute to the birth of rock ’n’ roll all the way through the ’80s. JCCC.edu/Midwest-Trust-Center

9 Saturday Breakfast with the Easter Bunny 8:30, Strawberry Hill Museum. The Easter Bunny hops by the museum to have breakfast and take photos. Pre-reg at StrawberryHillMuseum.org.

The Miracle Worker Thru Sunday, City Theatre of Independence. Annie Sullivan forms a bond with Helen Keller and shows her ways of reaching others. CityTheatreOfIndependence.org

Easter Egg-Stravaganza 9:00, Blue Springs Rotary Park. Vendors, yard games and the Easter Bunny will be on site. Facebook.com/bluespringsparks

Adult Easter Egg Hunt 7:00, Hidden Valley Sports Complex. Enjoy time by the fire before heading out for the hunt, where you can win raffle prizes. Pre-reg at 816.228.0137.

Brunch with the Bunny 9:00, Merriam Community Center. Make great memories with an egg hunt, games, photo op and pancake breakfast. Merriam.org

Friday Night Sound Bites 6:00, Lenexa Public Market. Enjoy live music and rotating food trucks. Some seating available, lawn chairs recommended. LenexaPublicMarket.com

Easter Eggstravaganza 9:30, Emmanuel Baptist Church (Overland Park). Egg hunts, petting zoo, face painters, caricature artist, inflatables and more! EmmanuelOPKS.org

TWO GREAT WAYS TO PLAY Let your little ones run, ride, splash and play while meeting new friends.

GYM FOR ME

Ages 2–5 SPLASH WITH ME

9–11 a.m. Mondays & Wednesdays Lenexa Community Center

10–11:30 a.m. Monday through Friday Lenexa Rec Center $2/per person PA R K S & R E C R E AT I O N

Schedules change periodically. Check before you go.

$2/per child

9–11 a.m. Tuesdays & Thursdays Lenexa Rec Center

$2/per child

kcparent.com april 2022

Easter Eggstravaganza April 16, Science City. Maker activities, face painting, balloon artist, photos with the Easter Bunny and an Easter hat parade. UnionStation.org

Mixed Media Art 10:00 or 2:00, Nerman Museum. Learn about different materials contemporary artists use and create a mixed media collage. Pre-reg at NermanMuseum.org.

Easter Egg Hunt 10:00, Shalimar Park (Grandview). Annual Easter egg hunt divided into age groups. Bring your own basket to collect eggs! Grandview.org

Kids Club 10:00, Colonial Gardens. Kids enjoy fun activities while you shop at Colonial Gardens or savor a coffee at the Bean Counter. Pre-reg at ColonialGardensKC.com.

Farm to Table Saturday 10:00, Shawnee Town 1929. A new cooking series highlighting the recipes and ingredients common in a 1920s kitchen. ShawneeTown.org

Easter Egg-venture 10:00, Church of the Resurrection. A family-friendly event for kids of every age with an egg hunt, meaningful craft and fun-filled activities. COR.org

Kids Spring Jamboree 10:00, Shoal Creek Living History Museum. Old time egg hunt, fun crafts, picture with Bunny and Shoal Creek reenactors. 816.792.2655

Doggie Egg Hunt 10:00, Olathe Community Center. Come bring Fido and his leash to hunt treat-filled eggs in Prairie Center Park. Pre-reg at 913.971.8563.

Easter Eggstravaganza 10:30, Linwood YMCA. Connect with UCC for a family fun filled Easter basket giveaway, photos and more! UrbanCommunityConnections.org

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

How the Three Little Kittens Lost Their Mittens 11:00, Puppetry Arts Institute. Meet the characters of this classic nursery rhyme and their mitten escapades. PuppetryArtsInstitute.org

Hunt a Trunk 11:00, Cornerstone Church (Leawood). Enjoy candy-filled Easter eggs, food, a petting zoo, funnel cakes, a visit from Slugger and more! CornerstoneKS.org/huntatrunk Unicorn Day Noon, Raymore Memorial Park. Visit with a “real” unicorn, enjoy a unicorn book, face painting, cupcakes and more. Pre-reg at 816.322.2791.

WEE

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10% OFF infant room for Two Convenient Locations: Child Development nd & enrollment. MetcalfCenter Ave 127th &year Antioch first with162 new “Where Your Child is Special” 913.681.2191 913.681.2190 2 weeks to 12 since years FamilyAges Owned and Operated Part-Time Preschool (Ages 1990 3-5) 6:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. 9:00-11:30 or 9:00-3:00 weeworkshopchildcare.com Mother’s Day Out (12 mos-3 years) 9:00-3:00

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10 Sunday Eggstravaganza 11:00, Leawood City Park. Join the fun at the 25th annual egg hunt with lunch, activities and lots of eggs for everyone! Leawood.org Public Tours 11:00, Cedar Cove. Explore Cedar Cove with an experienced guide. See these epic animals and learn about them. Tours start every half-hour. SaveOurSiberians.org American Girl Doll Club 1:00, St Joseph Museum. Explore each doll’s historical time period through a variety of activities. This month’s doll: Kaya. Pre-reg at StJosephMuseum.org. Eggstravaganza 1:00, the Great Lawn (18th & Vine). Bring a basket to collect eggs and enjoy a day of family fun! For more info, call 816.513.0652. The Texas Tenors 7:00, Yardley Hall. A mix of timeless classics along with hand-clapping country favorites performed by the versatile tenors. JCCC.edu/Midwest-Trust-Center

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

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

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

Story Time for Families 10:00, various branches (MCPL). Hear stories, sing songs, join in movement activities and create memories together. Pre-reg at MyMCPL.org.

14 Thursday

12 Tuesday Drive-Thru History Tuesdays 9:00, Missouri Town 1855. Drive into Missouri Town to explore the village and visit with our living history interpreters. MakeYourDayHere.com Preschool Indoor Playground 9:30, Irene B French Community Center. Too cold to play in the park? Ride, slide and play inside! Parents supervise children. Merriam.org/park

Pay for Play 10:00, Backyard Specialists. Plan a playdate for your children and their friends at the amazing showroom! BackyardSpecialists.com Pete the Cat 10:00 & noon, the Coterie. With its Beach Boys musical vibe and ’60s feel, this show will have everyone in the family strumming and strutting. TheCoterie.org Plaza Bunnies Thru April 28, Country Club Plaza. The bunnies are back! See larger-than-life bunnies in the courtyards and on the street corners. CountryClubPlaza.com

Kids Media Mix-Up 4:30, Albrecht-Kemper Museum. Put your imagination to work by using different mediums to create artwork. Ages 6-12. Pre-reg at Albrecht-Kemper.org.

Tulips at Twilight 7:00, Old Prairie Town (Topeka). See Old Prairie Town come alive with floral displays and thousands of illuminated tulips. Parks.snco.us

13 Wednesday

15 Friday

Animal Tales and Trails Thru May 1, Crown Center. Free exhibit where children learn what it’s like to prowl in an animal’s wild world. CrownCenter.com

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

Great deals on Trampolines, Basketball Goals and Swing Sets! Delivery and Set-up by Specialist Install Team

Visit our Olathe store, website, or Facebook page for more information

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913-307-6023

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kc@backyardspecialists.com | www.backyardspecialists.com www.facebook.com/BackyardSpecialistsKC/ kcparent.com april 2022

SIX-STOP TOUR

MERRIAM AND MISSION TAKE TIME TO EXPLORE SOME OF KANSAS CITY’S MOST BELOVED GEMS IN THE SPRING! 1. FUN WITH FOOD

2. WILD, WILD WEST

Foggi Ice Cream in Mission is taking the community by storm with hand crafted ice cream made right before your eyes with liquid nitrogen. It isn’t just fun to watch, but it’s fabulously delicious too! The fun hangout also offers classic board games and video games you can enjoy while you savor your sweet treat.

Antioch Park is one of the best-loved parks in the metro. The 44-acre park features two fishing lakes, walking path, tennis courts, picnic shelters, basketball courts, imaginative playgrounds, a rose garden and cookout grills. The trademark that makes it extra worthy of a visit is Dodge Town, a kid-sized village where children can pretend to live as pioneers.

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3. ART HUNT

4. BIKE IT

Merriam is home to many beautiful murals and sculptures portraying the region’s history. Our favorite piece is Motherhood, a water fountain featuring a mother bear and her cubs. Another favorite sculpture features a caterpillar and butterfly at Merriam’s beautiful Waterfall Park. Visit this link to take a tour of the public art on display: ExploreMerriam. com/Visit/Art.

The trail at Waterfall Park in Merriam, also home to the Merriam Marketplace, is a great place to walk or bike as a family. The accessible trail is scenic and enjoyable for an easy ride. In addition to the artwork, you’ll enjoy the natural landscape and the signature waterfall that are favorite photo ops for locals.

5. A TASTE OF SWEDEN

6. INDOOR FUN

Ikea is famous for its assemble-ityourself furniture and labyrinth layout, but they also make a mean meatball. The Swedish Market inside the mammothsized box store is stocked with Swedish meatballs, vafflor (Swedish waffles), pankkakor (pancakes), cookies and chocolates. You can purchase these items to enjoy at home for a taste of Europe.

The Merriam Community Center offers a variety of fitness and event spaces. On Tuesday mornings, preschoolers enjoy the indoor playground. Their indoor aquatics center is a favorite, offering places to swim with four 25-yard lap lanes, slides, lazy river, zero-depth entry and splash and play features.

Egg Hunt Geocache 10:00, 11:00 or noon, Antioch Park. Each group is loaned a GPS and hunts for caches hidden around the park. Caches are filled with Easter eggs. Pre-reg at JCPRD.com.

Downtown Bunny Hop 10:00, Downtown Lee’s Summit. Join the Easter Bunny for a hopping parade. Afterward, businesses will hand out candy. DowntownLS.org

The Bunny Hop 10:30, Meadowbrook Park. Enjoy a morning of food, music, games and craft that concludes with a small but fun Easter egg hunt. Ages 2-5. Pre-reg at 913.826.2975.

Spring Celebration 10:00, Central Park (Zona Rosa). Kids crafts, photos with Easter Bunny, food trucks, performances, balloon artists and more! ZonaRosa.com

The Great QR Egg Hunt Thru Sunday, Bonner Springs. Scan QR code and search for 20 eggs hidden in downtown Bonner Springs. BonnerSprings.org

Discover Nature 10:00, Anita B Gorman Discovery Center. Blend technology and natural habitats to learn how to record, connect and gather. Pre-reg at 816.759.7300.

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

Easter Egg Roll with Dole 10:00, Dole Institute. Family fun including White House-style roll, egg hunt, games and more! Free. DoleInstitute.org

Underwater Easter Egg Hunt 5:15, Lenexa Rec Center. Search for eggs in our indoor pool and exchange them for candy and prizes! Pre-reg at Lenexa.com/getactive. Third Friday Art Walk 5:30, Englewood Station Arts District. Tour the art galleries. View live performances and artists on the sidewalks in front of shops. EnglewoodStation.com Pooches and Peeps 6:00, Gage Park (Topeka). Kick off Easter with your dog in an all-new dog egg hunt pawty! Pre-reg at Parks.snco.us. Good Friday Service 7:00, Lenexa Baptist Church. Prepare for Easter with an evening Communion service. LenexaBaptist.com

16 Saturday Easter at the Mansion 9:00, Wyeth-Tootle Mansion. Egg hunt, Easter bunny photos, kids craft, tulip sale and free petting zoo. StJosephMuseum.org Spring Arts and Crafts Festival 9:00, Sports Pavilion (Lawrence). Spring arts and crafts fair for exhibitors to showcase and sell their work. LawrenceKS.org Easter Festival 9:30, Memorial Park (Raymore). A 15,000+ egg hunt, photos with the Easter Bunny and refreshments. Free event! Raymore.com Easter Eggstravaganza 10:00, Science City. Maker activities, face painting, balloon artist, photos with the Easter Bunny and an Easter hat parade. UnionStation.org Easter 1860s Style 10:00, Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop. Try a hot cross bun, take a stagecoach ride, visit the blacksmith and more! Mahaffie.org

Easter Egg Scramble 3:00, Dennis Park (50th & Rainbow). Grab your baskets and join the fun at this community-wide event. WestwoodKS.org

19 Tuesday Open Gym 9:30, Kaw Prairie Community Church. Grab a coffee from the coffee shop and hang out with friends while your kiddos get their energy out! KawPrairie.org Drive-Thru History Tuesdays 9:00, Missouri Town 1855. Drive into Missouri Town to explore the village and visit with our living history interpreters. MakeYourDayHere.com Preschool Indoor Playground 9:30, Irene B French Community Center. Too damp to play in the park? Ride, slide and play inside! Parents supervise children. Merriam.org/park Kids Media Mix-Up 4:30, Albrecht-Kemper Museum. Put your imagination to work by using different mediums to create artwork. Ages 6-12. Pre-reg at Albrecht-Kemper.org.

20 Wednesday

Easter Egg Plunge 5:30, Olathe Community Center. Plunge, dive and swim for thousands of Easter Eggs throughout three pools. OlatheKS.org

Splash with Me 10:00, Lenexa Rec Center. Little ones can splash, play and build confidence in the water during this morning swim time just for them. Lenexa.com

17 Sunday

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

Easter Sunday Easter Services 8:00, 9:30 & 11:00, Lenexa Baptist Church. Join us for services to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus. LenexaBaptist.com Easter Services Multiple times and locations, Church of the Resurrection. Join at one of our locations for an Easter Sunday worship service. COR.org

18 Monday Gym for Me 9:00, Lenexa Community Center. Play items are available, including push toys, riding toys, balls and inflatables. Lenexa.com Mom & Me Bumper Bowling 9:30, Summit Lanes. For just $3 per person, you get a game, shoe rental and drink on Mondays and Wednesdays. SummitLanes.com Story Time for Families 10:00, various branches (MCPL). Hear stories, sing songs, join in movement activities and create memories together. Pre-reg at MyMCPL.org. Spring Choirs Thru April 24, Crown Center. Local choirs will entertain Crown Center visitors daily. Visit CrownCenter.com for a schedule of performances.

Weekly Life on the Farm Tour 5:30, Colonial Gardens. Activities may include feeding the chickens, hugging an alpaca or holding a baby goat! ColonialGardensKC.com

21 Thursday Toddler Time 10:00, Ceramic Café. On Thursdays from 10:00 to 2:00, toddlers 5 and under can paint one selected item for just $10! CeramicCafeKC.com Story Time in the Barn 10:00, Alexander Majors Home. Preschoolers enjoy themed activities and crafts based on a storybook. WornallMajors.org Pay for Play 10:00, Backyard Specialists. Plan a playdate for your children and their friends at the amazing showroom! BackyardSpecialists.com Free Family Fun Nights 5:00, Kansas Children’s Discovery Center. Come explore a special place where children can create, discover and learn through play. KansasDiscovery.org

22 Friday Animal Tales and Trails Thru May 1, Crown Center. Free exhibit where children learn what it’s like to prowl in an animal’s wild world. CrownCenter.com kcparent.com april 2022

EVERY BOY BECOMES A MAN. THE QUESTION IS, WHAT KIND WILL YOURS BECOME? Since 1889, thousands of parents have looked to Missouri Military Academy to give their boys the structure, responsibility and love they need to grow, compete and thrive — and become young men in full command of their lives.

MMA

M I S S O U R I M I L I TA RY A C A D E M Y Serving grades 7 through 12 PG Since 1889 • Mexico, Missouri 888-564-6662 • missourimilitaryacademy.org

piano lessons

Learn to play piano and have FUN doing it! AGES 7+ | ALL SKILL LEVELS | AFFORDABLE | FLEXIBLE VOICE LESSONS | EXPERIENCED TEACHER (12 YRS)

ZOOM CLASSES AVAILABLE!

23 Saturday Nature Walk 9:00, Fort Osage National Historic Landmark. Discover plants and animals that compose the Missouri River Valley’s ecosystem. MakeYourDayHere.com Draft Animals of the 19th Century 9:00, Missouri Town 1855. Learn the important role that horses, mules and oxen played on 19thcentury farms. 816.524.8770 Earth Day Upcycled Crafts 9:30, Merriam Community Center. Kids make several functional art projects using recycled materials. Pre-reg at Merriam.org. Party for the Planet 10:00, Kansas City Zoo. Learn about conservation, watch a movie and enjoy fun, interactive and educational activities! KansasCityZoo.org Tulip Time Festival 10:00, Lake Shawnee (Topeka). Enjoy entry to the gardens, live musical performances, vendors and fun for the kids. Parks.snco.us Light and Shadows 10:00 & 2:00, Nerman Museum. Learn about artwork with black, white and grays and create your own sun-printed image. Ages 5-7. Pre-reg at NermanMusuem.org. Get Outdoors! 10:00, Kemper Outdoor Education Center. Enjoy activities including kayaking, fishing, archery, atlatl, hiking, outdoor yoga and more! 816.229.8980

Weather Wonders 10:30, MCPL (Blue Springs North). Mini meteorologists attempt to learn the mysteries behind our weather patterns.

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

Fourth Fridays Art Walk 5:00, Downtown Lee’s Summit. Showcases from local artists, live music, shops, restaurants and more! DowntownLS.org/fourthfridays

Celebrating Earth Day 10:00, Lakeside Nature Center. StoneLion Puppet Theatre, turkey vulture animal encounter and more! LakesideNatureCenter.org

IN-PERSON OR

62 april 2022

Plaza Bunnies Thru April 28, Country Club Plaza. The bunnies are back! See larger-than-life bunnies in the courtyards and on the street corners. CountryClubPlaza.com

24 Sunday Flights of Fancy Kite Festival Noon, MCCLongview. See as kites take flight over the lawn of the MCC-Longview campus with a wide array of kites! Kitefest.mcckc.edu

Public Tours 11:00, Cedar Cove. Explore Cedar Cove with an experienced guide. See these epic animals and learn about them. Tours start every half-hour. SaveOurSiberians.org Free Afternoon Program 1:30, Prairie Park Nature Center. Free program for the family may include video, slideshow and going outside to enjoy nature. LawrenceKS.org Stories by the Campfire 1:30, George Owens Nature Park. Roaring fire, exciting stories, fun for all. This month’s theme is Earth Day Story Seeds. 816.325.7115

25 Monday Story Time for Families 10:00, various branches (MCPL). Hear stories, sing songs, join in movement activities and create memories together. Pre-reg at MyMCPL.org. Spring Choirs Thru April 24, Crown Center. Local choirs will entertain Crown Center visitors daily. Visit CrownCenter.com for a schedule of performances.

26 Tuesday Drive-Thru History Tuesdays 9:00, Missouri Town 1855. Drive into Missouri Town to explore the village and visit with our living history interpreters. MakeYourDayHere.com Pay for Play 10:00, Backyard Specialists. Plan a playdate for your children and their friends at the amazing showroom! BackyardSpecialists.com Kids Media Mix-Up 4:30, Albrecht-Kemper Museum. Put your imagination to work by using different mediums to create artwork. Ages 6-12. Pre-reg at Albrecht-Kemper.org.

27 Wednesday

NOW OPEN!

Splash with Me 10:00, Lenexa Rec Center. Little ones can splash, play and build confidence in the water during this morning swim time just for them. Lenexa.com

LIMITED Group Size Morning and Afternoon Sessions Enhanced Cleaning

Weekly Life on the Farm Tour 5:30, Colonial Gardens. Activities may include feeding the chickens, hugging an alpaca or holding a baby goat! ColonialGardensKC.com

28 Thursday Toddler Time 10:00, Ceramic Café. On Thursdays from 10:00 to 2:00, toddlers 5 and under can paint one selected item for just $10! CeramicCafeKC.com

Museum

8788 Metcalf Ave Overland Park, KS jocoahc.com

For more info & to book your session: JCPRD.com/Museum kcparent.com april 2022

Opening Day April 30, Worlds of Fun. From the big thrill of the Patriot and Mamba to the little thrills of Planet Snoopy, Worlds of Fun has it all. WorldsOfFun.com

Animal Tales and Trails Thru May 1, Crown Center. Free exhibit where children learn what it’s like to prowl in an animal’s wild world. CrownCenter.com

29 Friday Pete the Cat 10:00, noon & 7:00, the Coterie. With its Beach Boys musical vibe and ’60s feel, this show will have everyone in the family strumming and strutting. TheCoterie.org Homeschool Play 1:00, Urban Air (Overland Park). A chance for homeschool families to come in, get active and play during the day. $15.99/child. UrbanAirTrampolinePark.com

30 Saturday Life on the Farm 8:00, Colonial Gardens. Meet the livestock and help feed them their breakfast. Learn about regenerative and rotational grazing practices. ColonialGardensKC.com

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kcparent.com

Farmers Market 8:00, Downtown Lee’s Summit. Purchase a variety of fresh produce, plants, meat, baked goods, handmade crafts and more. DowntownLS.org Superhero Training Day 9:00, Gladstone Community Center. Superhero training activities, crafts, selfie station, snacks and more! Costumes encouraged. Pre-reg at 816.423.4200 Walk `N Wag 9:00, Atkins-Johnson Farm. Enjoy a 1-mile walk with your furry friend and check out goodies from local vendors. Pre-reg at Gladstone.MO.US.

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

Opening Day 10:00, Worlds of Fun. From the big thrill of the Patriot and Mamba to the little thrills of Planet Snoopy, Worlds of Fun has it all. WorldsOfFun.com

Wolf at the Door 11:00, MCPL (Colbern Road Community Room). Jay and Leslie Cady punctuate fairy tales with juggling routines and a lively discussion. Pre-reg at MyMCPL.org

Babysitting and CPR Class 10:00, Olathe Indian Creek Library. Class covers babysitting business basics, childcare, emergency situations and more. Pre-reg at OlatheLibrary.org.

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

Celebrate Spring at The Fun Farm

Join us in April for the first annual tulip festival with over 300,000 bulbs, 30+ fun farm attractions and one of a kind photo ops! Experience an endless sea of beautiful, picture perfect tulips! In May, enjoy sweet fresh strawberries straight from the vine! Bring the family out to experience our u-pick strawberry fields, 30+ fun farm attractions & more. *The tulip fields and strawberries are weather dependent! Please check website & social media pages for updates.

THE FUN FARM 650 N. Jefferson St. | Kearney, MO 64060 | (816) 628-0028 | FunFarmPumpkinPatch.com

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“I wanna go back to Science City” - Every Little Learner

Explore Nearly 100,000 sqf of Indoor & Outdoor Fun For The Whole Family Join us April 16th for

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KC Parent magazine April 2022

Articles inside

Accessible Parks

Party Guide

Calendar of Events

Date Night

Ask the Experts

Craft Corner

Creating a Bedtime Routine

Word from Dad

Dear Teachers

Healthy Kids

5 Things