KC Parent Magazine May 2017 by KC Parent Magazine

FREE | May 2017 | KCParent.com | Since 1985

Celebrating

MOMS IN KANSAS CITY

are you a PARENT PRO? take our quiz to find out!

PERFECT PICNICS & FUN FESTS

Heartland Harvest Garden Heartland Harvest Garden featuring Gardens of Myth May-Oct.

Booms & Blooms Festival of Butterflies

VIP PARTNERS Society of Perennial Partners get special access to events and exlusives!

Naturally Inspired... Welcome to Powell Gardens, Kansas City’s Botanical Garden, where you’ll embrace the Midwest’s spirit of place and be captivated by the sheer beauty and authenticity found in every season. This living collection encompasses interactive gardens, nature trails, lakes, meadows, renowned architecture and more. Visitors also can engage with The Heartland Harvest Garden, the nation’s largest edible landscape with more than 2,000 types of food plants and special events that include tastings, demonstrations and chef-prepared dinners. Visit powellgardens.org to see what’s blooming. 1609 NW U.S. 50 Highway 816.697.2600 | powellgardens.org

Gardens of Myth Exhibit May 27-Oct. 22

Fungi & Fermentation Festival May 6-7

Booms & Blooms July 1

Festival of Butterflies Aug. 4-6 & Aug. 11-13

How Do You Know if Your Child Really

Needs Braces – Or Will Just Grow Out of It?

When you need to take care of it – or can it wait? To go to a dentist or an orthodontist? Are all orthodontists the same? To get Invisalign® or a lower cost alternative? Who can you trust for advice?

BurlesonSmile.com Authoritative information for parents of children, pre-teens and teens is available, free, and at no obligation, including downloadable free reports, online video, and more. In this era of social media, social media shaming and bullying, shocking numbers of pre-teen and teen suicides, and hyper-emphasis on personal appearance, crooked and mis-placed teeth and a smile he or she is embarrassed about and humiliated by can be a serious issue. Further, there are lifelong health ramifications of neglected or postponed, necessary teeth straightening. This is much more than just ‘cosmetics’. But how can you feel confident about the decisions you make, for your daughter or son? Please let us provide the information that directly and clearly answers your questions. Visit BurlesonSmile.com BEFORE you visit any dental or orthodontic office. Burleson Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry is committed to the highest standards of care, beginning with having fully informed parents and patients. Our doctors have worked with the prestigious Disney Institute and Ritz Carlton Leadership Center to bring the same “wow” experience to the smiles of your son or daughter. See why over 15,000 Kansas City moms trust Burleson to help their children smile with confidence. Call (816) 759-0119 today to reserve your comprehensive smile assessment and ask about our exclusive offers for readers of KC Parent Magazine.

Visit our website today to find out more:

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His & Her Fitness F I T & N Her O T S K I N N Y His Fitness F I T

N O T

S K I N N Y

NEW GYM – CHECK IT OUT!

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His & Her Fitness F I T & N Her O T SFitness K I N N Y His F I T

N O T

S K I N N Y

MAY

2017

DEPARTMENTS 10 Craft Corner 12 Media Mix 13 Women’s Health 15 Word from Dad

CELEBRATING KC MOMS, PG. 20

17 Healthy Kids

SPECIAL SECTIONS 26 Camp Guide

FEATURES

42 Party Guide 52 Calendar of Events

Travel Tips

Camp Guide

Parent Private Eye

Suggestions for a smooth road trip with kids

14+ pages of great summer camp options

How far should you go to respect a teen’s privacy?

Our cover features Emily and Jude from Carthage. Cover and select interior photos by KiaBondurant.com. FREE | May 2017 | KCParent.com | Since 1985

Celebrating

MOMS IN KANSAS CITY

are you a PARENT PRO?

ON THE COVER

kcparent.com may 2017

Celebrating Moms

Favorite Festivals

Are You a Parent Pro?

Picnic Spots in KC

take our quiz to find out!

PERFECT PICNICS & FUN FESTS

Internationally Awarded • Bigger Than Ever

“Simple Machines At Play” – New Exhibit Opens Early May - Over 13,000 sqf of NEW Outdoor Science Fun - Race a friend down the inclined plane zip line

- Use a lever to lift a huge globe filled with people - Scale a massive climber for an amazing view

All Included with Science City admission and free for Members!

ScienceCity.com

EDITOR’SLETTER MAY 2017

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 Advertising@KCParent.com Electronic Media Manager Kristina Light Kristina@KCParent.com Event Calendar Susan Lynn Calendar@KCParent.com Copy Editor Susan Crainshaw Susan@KCParent.com Distribution To be added to our distribution list, e-mail Distribution@KCParent.com Local Contributing Writers

LOCAL CONTENT

Kim Antisdel (Liberty), Bill Bartlett (Belton), Melissa Bellach (Overland Park), Trisha Foley (Belton), Allison Gibeson (Lee’s Summit), Jessica Heine (Olathe), Christa Melnyk Hines (Olathe), Rebecca Ishum (Belton), Karen Johson (Olathe), Megan Kapple (Kansas City), Kristina Light (Kansas City), Sarah Lyons (Olathe), Laura Miller McEachen (Overland Park), C. Alex Merrill (Lawrence), Katie Newell (Shawnee)

Mailing Address 11936 W. 119th #335, Overland Park, KS 66213 913.782.3238 phone • 913.681.5139 fax OUR PRODUCTS kansas city’s #1 travel guide since 2010

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spring/summer 2017

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MATERNI T Y YE A R S

G A Z I NE MA

kcgoingplaces.com

Celebrating

WHAT’S NEW IN

MOMS IN KANSAS CITY

KANSAS CITY 500+ DISCOVERIES

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PERFECT PICNICS & FUN FESTS

TO MAKE IN KC

ULTIMATE

2 00 2

maternity

APRIL-JUNE 2017 | KCPARENT.COM

the

labor & delivery issue

SUMMER FUN LIST FAVORITE

FAIRS AND FESTIVALS

what is labor like?

really

CREATING A BIRTH PLAN tips for a smooth DELIVERY

+ BEST KEPT WEEKEND SECRETS INTERNATIONAL PASSPORT WITHOUT LEAVING KC

best

NEW

books for TINY TOTS

Happy Mother’s Day and end of school year, Kansas City!

.com

At KCParent.com find...

Publisher Michael Gimotty Michael@KCParent.com

KC B A

lmost. Made. It. The end is near and in sight! It seems that each year, the May calendar gets busier and fuller with so much to get in before the final bell sounds for summer. I speak from experience when I say that the teachers are counting down with as much anticipation as the students! To help you get through these final weeks, Olathe mom Karen Johnson has put together some great tips on successfully wrapping up the school year on pg. 16. And, to her list, might I add a suggestion of my own? Grab your mom friends and head out for a happy hour at least once before the end of the year! Not only does May bring the end of the school year, but it also brings Mother’s Day. As a parenting magazine, we obviously think Mother’s Day is an important celebration! Kansas City Mommas, raising kids is hard work and at any given moment it can seem like the best, worst, hardest, most fulfilling, most underpaid, most tiring job on the planet. Know that you’ve got this and that we’re all in this together. My hope is that each month KC Parent is a place for you moms (and dads!) to find tidbits and info to help you along your parenting journey. Festival and fair season gets into full swing this month. Be sure to check out our festival guide on pg. 46 and at KCParent.com to keep up with all the latest. There’s something fun for everyone!

• Fantastic Festivals Facebook.com/KansasCityParent Pinterest.com/KCParent @KCParent

• Great Parks • Fun Memorial Day • Weekend Activities • And much, MUCH more!

Member of:

Circulation verified by:

Margaret Sarver, Editor

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

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

kcparent.com may 2017

Foster parents needed! Help children who have experienced abuse, neglect or other family challenges Do I qualify to be a foster parent? All kinds of people can qualify to foster a child. Whether you are single or married, own or rent your home, have children already or don’t, work full-time or stay home, you may be eligible.

How will I handle saying goodbye to the child if and when it’s safe for them to go home? This is no doubt difficult, but any sadness is outweighed by the safety and love you will give to a child during a time of crisis. Plus, you’re encouraged to maintain life-long connections with the child and family. Thousands of children in the Kansas City area are in need of caring foster families. If not you, then who?

(888) 655-5500 | www.kvckansas.org kcparent.com may 2017

CRAFTCORNER

Materials Needed:

• Faux flowers • Construction paper • Pipe cleaners • Glue • Canvas • Acrylic paint

These flower canvases are the perfect way to show love for Mother’s Day.

Step One: Paint the canvas a solid color.

faux flower canvas

elebrate spring by making these faux flower canvases! They are the perfect way to show love for Mother’s Day or an end-of-the-year

teacher gift. Grab some inexpensive faux flowers to

Step Two: Cut a piece of construction paper into a vase shape. Paint the paper vase with shapes and designs.

Step Three: Once the paint is dry, glue the vase onto the canvas.

make your child’s artwork come to life!

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

kcparent.com may 2017

Step Four: Next, using a hot glue gun, attach pipe cleaners for stems and faux flowers to finish off your artwork!

Dentistry That Will Make Kids

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For Your Family’s Health, On and Off the Field. Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m.-8 p.m. Sat. & Sun., 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

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Convenient Locations: Shawnee (NOW OPEN) (Shawnee Mission Pkwy & Nieman) Lenexa (91st & Quivira) Olathe (119th & Blackbob) Overland Park (135th & Grandview) kcparent.com may 2017

MEDIAMIX

explore outside

warm weather brings out books full of adventure By McGeath Freeman

Gossie & Friends Say Good Night By Olivier Dunrea Best for: Ages 1-4

Everyone has his own way of preparing for bed. By now, your young children are probably familiar with Gossie & Friends. These simple yet expressive books explore the adventures of childhood. In Say Good Night, Ollie wanders the farmyard as his friends prepare for bed. Ollie stops to ask each one what he is doing. Each Gertie is stretching her legs before bed, and BooBoo is getting a snack. Maybe Ollie’s ritual is checking on all his friends. This touch-and-feel book is perfect for adding to your bedtime ritual with your little one. As he relaxes and wonders, he can explore the bright colors and textures of the book.

What’s good: Perfect mix of engagement and sleepy-time wonder.

What’s bad: The sticky touch-and-feel page picks up dust and dirt very easily.

The Runaway Egg By Katy Hudson

Take the Key and Lock Her Up

Best for: Ages 4-7

By Ally Carter Best for: Ages 12-16

Looking for an oldersibling-themed book? This one takes place on a farm with Little Chick in charge of watching his little brother (an egg) while Mom is out. Little Chick does not understand what all the fuss is because all the egg does is sit there. Eventually, Little Chick falls asleep. Naturally, that is when the mayhem begins. Think of this as a screwball comedy for the preschool set. While Little Chick dozes, his little brother kicks his legs through the egg and runs off. In a frenzy, Little Chick races to protect his little brother—through a muddy pig sty, past sheep shearing scissors and away from an angry bull. By the end, Little Chick might just be ready to be a big brother. Hudson’s Little Chick jumps into our hearts from the first spread. His expressiveness gives the reader a clear personality with which to relate. Children will love him.

What’s good: Fun, fast-paced mayhem will keep the attention of little readers.

What’s bad: Several variations of Runaway Egg stories on bookstore shelves.

kcparent.com may 2017

Fans of the first two installments of Embassy Row novels will surely love the newest addition. However, don’t bother starting the series with this book—you will be lost. Carter does a great job of building suspense, maintaining fast-paced action and constructing characters you want know. She only asks that you suspend disbelief a little so that her characters can survive and thrive in James Bond style. Escapes, globetrotting, cash, multiple passports, conspiracies and royal intrigue are the norm in these books. The only questions are who will go the farthest to come out on top and will our heroes survive their teenage years?

What’s good: Fast-paced action and intrigue designed for teen girls.

What’s bad: Unbelievable action and intrigue—suspend disbelief for this one.

WOMEN’SHEALTH

getting fit

(and keeping your wits) in one easy step

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anting to be healthy is a desirable thing. When you get older and stay healthy, it comes with a treasury of perks: physical mobility, fewer medical bills, increased longevity and, overall, a better quality of life. Struggling with one’s weight can be stressful and, unfortunately, it’s one of the most common symptoms of menopause. Are you ready to hear the secret? Get ready to kick menopause’s butt! The secret to losing weight and feeling great is: Live: 3.35" x 9.625"

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1. Small Frequent Meals Until recently, this was the go-to metabolism-boosting diet plan for most fitness coaches; the approach has been debunked, though. Some researchers, such as Poppy Carpenter of the University of Missouri’s School of Journalism, argue that SFM don’t directly speed up metabolism but that eating that way is still effective in changing your lifestyle for the better. She says eating SFM daily has been shown to lower caloric intake and decrease unhealthy eating trends (“gorging”). I still recommend SFM because they definitely lead to more stable energy, which indirectly improves metabolism. 2. Cardio + Strength Training In “Exercise Beyond Menopause: Do’s and Don’ts,” the Journal of Midlife Health publishes a longitudinal study covering the necessity of implementing a customized daily/weekly exercise regimen for all menopausal women. Their conclusions gathered that reaching menopause without taking any preventative measures against negative health outcomes could bring menopause on early and make it particularly severe. Conversely, people who chose to walk around outside for an hour every day many years prior (a decade or less), had reasonably tolerable menopausal years.

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Yup—that’s the secret. You honestly shouldn’t be fixating on your weight and counting every calorie. Sure, it’s great to crack down on harmful things, like fast food. Although moderation is always key, we must be vigilant and notice when instances turn into constants—such as intensely restrictive diet plans. Those kill your metabolism. “On average, women gain five to seven pounds during menopause. Declining estrogen robs bone and muscle mass,” writes Karen SmithJanssen in her article “6 Workout Mistakes Women Make When They Hit Menopause,” in Prevention. And in “Exercise Beyond Menopause: Do’s and Don’ts” in the Journal of Mid-Life Health, the authors say, “Bones become strong when the muscles attached to them become strong.” So what do women need to do? Build things back up. Especially to lose weight! I know, the thought of building muscle sounds scary in your head, but in actuality translates into your burning calories more easily.

TALK WITH YOUR TEEN ABOUT

UNDERAGE DRINKING.

-MJ CORCORAN PARENT COA COACH O CH OA

Parents are the number one influence on teens’ decisions about drinking alcohol.* Learn how to be a positive influence this prom and graduation season.

Regardless, the study continued to urge women to develop exercise as an integral part of their menopause strategy because the benefits are so essential to maintaining muscle mass and, consequently, bone mass and strength. C. Alex Merrill is a freelance writer and habitual traveler from the Lawrence area. Weekend free time is dedicated to family, Moo Shu takeout and the calamitous booms of Doctor Who chase music.

*SOURCE: 2015 GFK ROPER YOUTH POLL, CONDUCTED USING GFK’S WEEKLY OMNIWEB STUDY.

kcparent.com may 2017

tra

s ot

w g it h n i l t ve

For great games to play in the car, log onto KCParent.com.

ith Memorial Day and summer break just around the corner comes the allure of fun vacations, sweet family memories and the open road. For many of us though, getting to our final destination is not exactly an easy undertaking. Why? Because of the kids! Try these top six tips to make it easier to travel with youngsters.

Put them in charge. Kids love feeling like they have a job and play a significant part in the family. Mary Gordon, Overland Park, says, “If they are big enough, let them carry a backpack with their own stuff. It lightens your load, and they feel all important carrying a bag too.” Before leaving town, ask kids to pick out a few small toys to add to it as well. Having toys they personally choose means they will have something to look forward to playing with. It also means that they will feel more a part of the whole adventure!

Make media your friend. Gather DVDs, borrow a few new movies from the library or download some shows to a tablet for the road. Lots of choices keep boredom to a minimum. Jorlyn Jones, Olathe, says, “All electronic rules go out the window for us when we’re traveling.” However you manage to prepare for the road ahead, remember that DVD players and tablets may prove to be your best road warrior buddies. Raid the dollar store. The dollar section and dollar stores are parents’ best allies when planning a trip! Before leaving, stop by to grab a few inexpensive items to tuck away in your surprise bag. Throughout the trip, you’ll be able to hand new items back to squirmy kids to help keep them entertained.

Pack snacks. Convenience store snacks add up, and let’s face it, when a kid has reached “hangry” mode, there isn’t time to find a store. Before leaving town, load up on healthy snacks that will keep kids happy in the backseat. Try to avoid anything that melts, and accept that cracker crumbs probably will need to be vacuumed out of car seats when you return home. If you can find a few new snacks, the novelty will help as well! Have a potty plan. Nobody is remotely entertained if an accident happens. Cut down on detours and frustration for kids and parents by packing a potty in the car. Lauren Heller, Overland Park, says, “If you’re traveling by car or by plane, it’s a must when toddlers are potty training. Ours folded into a nice compact bag, and we could use plastic grocery bags for liners.” If a kid needs to go, a quick stop on the side of the road means that kids stay dry, parents stay sane and the trip can continue in short order! Go with the flow. Giving up the idea of the perfectly planned and executed vacation can be hard, but at the end of the day, that kind of mentality actually may cause you more stress than just being willing to go with the flow. “Lower your expectations,” Dana Compagnone, Leawood, advises as a twin mom. Kids travel differently than adults, and being willing to be flexible while road tripping will lead to a happier family and better memories in the end. Rebecca Ishum lives with her husband, Sean, and their 6-year-old quadruplets in Belton. They make sure to pack as many DVDs, coloring books, small toys and snacks as their minivan can hold when traveling as a family!

Kids travel differently than adults, and being willing to be flexible while road tripping will lead to a happier family and better memories in the end.

kcparent.com may 2017

WORDFROMDAD

mom to the rescue

“I

have to go out for a while and Bob will watch you.” Mom looked us over. “No fighting and go to bed early. I’ll be home soon.” Dad backed the car out of the driveway and they disappeared around the corner. Bob had watched us before, but he couldn’t control the weather on this sticky June evening. Like many, we had no air conditioning, so we opened windows, pulled back curtains and hoped for a breeze. For me, the hope was in vain. Sleep eluded me, no matter how hard I tried. The humidity rose to near unbearable levels, and all my desperate tossing and turning brought no relief. My discomfort compounded my fatigue, and all I wanted was to sleep. After what seemed an eternity, I saw headlights in the drive and knew my relief was near. Mom could make everything better. She would fix it. I flew up the stairs and met her at the door, enshrouded in misery and sobbing. “What is it?” She knelt to my level. “Are you sick?” “I’m too hot. I can’t sleep ‘cause it’s too hot.”

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Mom smiled. “We can do something about that.” She took the large box fan from the family spot in the living room and placed it in my doorway. Then, Mom opened my door to the garage and let the cooler air flow in. I settled into my bed, just as the thunderstorm hit. Cool rain drove away the humidity and I was able to relax. “Would you like to hear a story?” I was far too old for a bedtime fable, but I nodded and she sat on my bed. Sleep took me long before the end of the tale, but one thing stays clear in my mind. She never even took off her heels. Bill Bartlett lives in Belton with his family. kcparent.com may 2017

wrap it up! surviving the end of the school year

ay is one of the best times of year. The sun is out until 8:00, and it’s warm enough to run around in shorts and a t-shirt all day long! However, May also means school is wrapping up and activities are in full force. That can be overwhelming for your kids (and you!), so here are some tips for coping with this busy time.

Practice stress management techniques.

Your kids still need sleep.

Keep your calendar updated. If you or your kids are overwhelmed, try tackling one project per day (or week) and then cross completed ones off as you go. Avoid letting things pile up so you are not facing more than you can handle at once. If your kids don’t have their own calendar, now might be the time to set one up. Let them write down each day’s tasks and events so they can feel more in control of their busy schedules.

Ensure your kids get lots of rest. I know it’s tempting to let them ride their bikes in the street until it gets dark, but they need sleep. They still have a long day of school ahead of them the following day. Summer will be here in a few weeks, and then you can banish bedtime whenever you want!

Don’t overload the calendar. Try to limit activities. If your kids look like their heads are spinning, consider cutting something out. Ask the coach if they can they afford to miss a practice. Maybe that sleepover isn’t such a good idea right now—you can reschedule for June.

It ain’t over ’til it’s over. Don’t check out until it’s time to check out. Kids thrive on routine. If your schedule is to practice spelling words every Thursday, stick with it. Letting them slack on their responsibilities only hurts them in the long run, and it sends the wrong message.

kcparent.com may 2017

What works for your kids? Time alone to decompress? A walk? Exercise? Meditation? You know your kids better than anyone—figure out what calms them down and use that method a little bit more as school comes to a close.

Plan ahead.

Communicate. Talk to your kids. Talk to their teachers. Keep the lines of communication open. At this time of year when 100 papers are coming home in their backpacks every day, be diligent about following up, asking questions, clarifying what needs to be done. Ask your kids how they are doing. Do they need a break? Or are they hanging in there okay, prepared to push through until the end?

For more great tips on celebrating the end of the school year, head to KCParent.com.

Be patient. Cut your kids some slack if they seem overwhelmed. They may be a bit short with you. This might be the time to let a snide comment or two slide until the dust settles. They may forget their lunch or library books more often. Your children have quite a bit swimming through their heads right now, so try to keep that in mind and do your best to practice patience.

Help your child cope with change. Remember that your child may be anxious about the change that summer brings—he won’t see his friends as often, he may be sad about having to say good-bye to his teacher. Work on preparing for that. Set up summer playdates and camps with friends. Make a thank you gift for his teacher and ask her if he can write to her this summer (some teachers even offer to meet at a park or for lunch if kids are really struggling with missing them). Let him write down his favorite memories from the school year and share them with her as a way to say thank you. And remember, if the world won’t stop spinning, hold on! It’s almost summer. Olathe mom Karen Johnson has three children, ages 6, 4 and 2. She writes at The21stCenturySAHM.com.

HEALTHYKIDS

migraines

IN KIDS

are bad for adults, but when m igraines our kids have to deal with them,

that’s even worse. Headaches are not just an adult problem. By age 15, 5 percent of all kids have had migraines and 15 percent have had tension headaches. By keeping track of triggers and symptoms, parents and kids can keep migraines manageable. Migraines are different from headaches in that they come on suddenly and can involve other symptoms, including nausea, abdominal pain, vomiting and bright light sensitivity. The pain is often located around the eyes, the forehead region or the temples (EMedicineHealth.com). While the cause of migraines is unknown, many people do notice a trigger—anything from a certain weather pattern to a particular item they eat or drink. Why these triggers cause a response in certain people and not in others is unknown. Oftentimes, genetics play a role as well. There is no one way to diagnose migraines, but the doctor will want to see the big picture: how often the migraines occur, symptoms, any triggers and coping mechanisms. Many times the doctor will order tests to rule out other ailments. The FDA has not approved many medications to use with children, but many doctors will prescribe those limited medications with few to no side effects for the child. Because each case is different, finding a treatment plan that works best for your child can take some trial and some time. For many children with mild or less frequent migraines, the treatment of choice is sleep. Assist the child in going to a dark, quiet room where he can fall asleep easily, and when he wakes, the pain often will be gone. Some children report ice packs can help the pain, as well as over-the-counter NSAIDS (ibuprofen) to reduce the pain (EMedicineHealth.com). The more effective treatment is avoiding trigger events and thereby reducing the frequency of the migraines.

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Jessica Heine is a labor and delivery nurse. She lives in Olathe with her family.

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more organization, less

stress

For tips on clearing and cleaning out closets, head to KCParent.com

pring cleaning in four steps helps make home more enjoyable More than half of Americans dread spring cleaning more than taxes, according to a recent study by SpareFoot. com. Getting organized might be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be that bad. If you are in the majority who aren’t fond of cleaning out the basement, closet or kids’ room, Chelsey Lauer with JLB Simplify, a Kansas City-based organization business, recommends breaking down the process into four steps.

First is the functional step of organizing. This involves going into a basement, child’s room, closet or other out-of-control area with two trash bags: a black bag for trash and a white bag for donations. In this stage, Lauer says, it’s not necessary to make any hard decisions about what

kcparent.com may 2017

to keep and what to purge. You simply clear out things that are clearly trash or definitely donations. This helps create more space and makes the rest of the process less overwhelming.

Next is the decision-making stage. Lauer recommends putting all like items together to see exactly what you have. Then take time to make harder decisions about which items stay and which items go. “This is the part where you want to be honest with yourself,” Lauer says. She encourages people to ask themselves whether they are really going to take the time and effort fix a broken toy or other item or whether purging the item is the better idea. Lauer also recommends getting the kids involved in the decision-making related to their toys and possessions. Give kids a set amount of space, such as an assortment

of bins, for their belongings. Tell them anything that doesn’t fit in that space needs to go, and let the child be the one who determines what stays and what goes. Shawna Childers with Organizing Solutions KC agrees kids should be part of the process and says this is an opportunity to talk to youngsters about the less fortunate. “Once they realize you aren’t throwing away the items, they are generally willing and wanting to donate,” she says.

Once final decisions have been made about what you will keep, it’s time to organize. Lauer says to invest in clear organizing tubs from Walmart and label them. She also suggests getting storage shelves to hold the tubs. Organization breaks down easily if tubs are labeled clearly. Label every toy bin appropriately, putting pictures on tubs for younger children.

Childers recommends having a rotating storage system for seasonal items, similar to the way a grocery store stocks its shelves. This results in storing the current season’s items in front with the out-of-season items behind.

The final step is personalization. This stage is optional and involves putting your unique decorative touch to the home. Now that the home is organized, feel free to have fun on Pinterest getting ideas for how to make your place reflect your personality and creativity. Instead of always making it a big process, Childers also says cleaning and organizing can be done as you go, one room or quadrant of a room at a time. For example, she suggests when you are putting away Christmas decorations to go through old Christmas items and purge. Use whenever you have to get something out of a specific area of the basement or closet as an opportunity to purge. Simply stay in that subject area of the room and find what needs to be purged and organized, she says. The results of such organization can make a positive impact on a family. Lee’s Summit mom Bailey Murphy and her two children now have room to play and move in their basement, but it wasn’t always that way. “My basement was insanely chaotic and messy,” Murphy says. “I would literally avoid looking at the rest of my basement when I went down there to do laundry.” About a year ago, she took everything out of her basement and with Lauer’s help sorted it into trash, donate and keep piles. She estimates she kept about 65 percent of her things, but now has space left over after categorizing items by types and creating spots for these categorized items. Allison Gibeson is a Lee’s Summit writer and mom who stopped in the middle of working on this article to gather up several trash bags for Goodwill.

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how well do you know your

Mother?

s parents, we know all the intimate details about our little kids. We know when they go to the bathroom, their favorite foods and when a meltdown is right around the corner. But how well do those little tykes know us? Some metro moms got together and put their kids to the test with very fun results!

Son Ellington, age 3, Lenexa Mom: Maricole Taylor 1. What is Mommy’s name? Mommy 2. What is Mommy’s job? Playing 3. What is something Mommy says a lot? Go to sleep 4. What is Mommy’s favorite thing to do? Hide N Seek 5. What makes Mommy happy? Snuggles

Luke Howerton, age 4, Lenexa Mom: Jennifer Howerton 1. W hat is Mommy’s name? Jennifer 2. W hat is Mommy’s job? Taking care of me. (stayat-home mom) 3. W hat is something Mommy says a lot? No, no, no! 4. W hat is Mommy’s favorite thing to do? Hugs and kisses. Snuggle with me. (It’s actually lying in bed reading.) 5. What makes Mommy happy? Loving me. (Real answer would be wine, but maybe we shouldn’t include that!)

kcparent.com may 2017

Griffin Groesbeck, age 4, Leawood Mom: Sally Groesbeck 1. What is Mommy’s name? Sally 2. W hat is Mommy’s job? Helping the kids and Dad. (stay-at-home mom!) 3. What is something Mommy says a lot? YouTube is bad for your brain. 4. What is Mommy’s favorite thing to do? Work out and play with kids. 5. What makes Mommy happy? When we are good listeners.

Trinidad (Trino), age 2 ½ , Roeland Park Mom: Jessica Salazar 1. What is Mommy’s name? Jessica 2. What is Mommy’s job? You go work. 3. What is something Mommy says a lot? That you want help with the car seat (I do constantly ask my husband to help me put Trinidad in the car seat. He’s heavy!)

Dalton Green, age 6, Liberty Mom: Stephanie Green 1. W hat is Mommy’s name? Stevie (yup, nickname for Stephanie) 2. What is Mommy’s job? Work (When I asked him what I do at work, he said math—I’m a financial planner.)

4. What is Mommy’s favorite thing to do? Play Batman. (Close, but getting a pedicure and manicure tops the list.) 5. What makes Mommy happy? Batman toys

3. What is something Mommy says a lot? Stay away from Abrey. (the new baby on the way) 4. What is Mommy’s favorite thing to do? Play. 5. W hat makes Mommy happy? Me! Cade Green, age 4, Liberty Mom: Stephanie Green 1. What is Mommy’s job? Work. (when asked what I do at work, he said get money; financial planner) 2. What is something Mommy says a lot? No 3. What is Mommy’s favorite thing to do? Play. 4. W hat makes Mommy happy? When I am good and when I hug and kiss her and tell her I love her.

Elliott Cameron, age 3, Kansas City, KS Mom: Tess Cameron 1. What is Mommy’s name? Tess (right!) 2. What is Mommy’s job? Exercise (I guess that’s true since I chase after two toddlers all day, LOL) 3. What is something Mommy says a lot? It’s alright, nothing to worry about. 4. What is Mommy’s favorite thing to do? Play with me. 5. What makes Mommy happy? Grampa

Melissa Bellach is a freelance writer, wife and mom of two living in Overland Park. kcparent.com may 2017

Writetime

now’s the

hen was the last time you wrote a letter to someone you love?

If your idea of a letter means a quick text or email, you are like most busy moms (and dads). Most of us haven’t written—or received—a letter in several years. Mother’s Day is the perfect

Here are a few tips to get you started: Handwritten is more personal. Sure, it’s faster to type out your thoughts, and it’s certainly easier to edit, but taking the time to handwrite a letter will make the recipient feel honored.

Write from the heart. If she were to write a letter to her mom, Melissa Craker of Raymore says, “I would tell her I had no idea how much she loved me until I became a mom.” That’s the kind of a thing a mom wants to hear. Keep it real and honest.

time to revive the lost art of letter

Mother knows best. Brian Phillips of Butler, MO, shares what

writing. It’s an opportunity to

he would write in a letter: “All those times you said to me,

share your thoughts and feelings

‘Mothers know everything’.....you were right, Mom.” Tell her you

with your mom, grandma, friend

appreciate all the times she was right.

or any other special woman in

Tell her she’s a model. Let her know how you try to emulate

your life. You can even write a letter to yourself! Why not simply tell the person how you feel about her? For one thing, many of us feel awkward having intimate conversations. We

her in raising your own kids. Raymore resident Bonnie Lesmeister says she would write, “Mom, you set the bar of motherhood so darn high. I sure hope I am doing it right.” So dig out those pens and stationery and get busy! Now is

know what we want to say, but sometimes the words don’t come out right. Writing a letter gives us a chance to express what is in our hearts

the “write” time to share your feelings with someone you love.

without the pressure of facing the person. We can revise our words until Tisha Foley and her family live in Belton.

we feel they are just right.

Worlds of Fun®

Oceans of Fun®

Highs, Drops, Twists, Turns!

Enjoy Them All!

6 Easy Payments of

Haunt®

kcparent.com may 2017

NEW! WinterFest

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www.StartingPointDental.com Owner John P. Roth DDS and family Specialist in Pediatric Dentistry Specialist in Orthodontics

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A C

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ng the butte rf l i m l a c

our child may feel “butterflies in his tummy” if he has a big event coming up such as an important test, a piano recital or even the first day of school. Feeling nervous is normal when kids are facing performing or speaking in front of a group of people, going to an upcoming dentist or doctor appointment, or trying to meet the pressure to do well on a test or at a sporting event. Many adults find themselves feeling nervous for similar events at work or in the community. Even though nerves are common, parents can help kids calm the butterflies and be successful.

Model calming behavior Watching our child battle nervous feelings can be difficult for us parents—and even may cause us to feel anxious and worried ourselves. Kids can sense this and may grow more panicked as a result. Model calming behavior to your child. Speak in a calm voice, try not to rush and do keep your chit chat positive and encouraging.

Prepare and discuss Prior to the big day, discuss what your child can expect. “We spend time talking about the event a few days before. I allow them to ask questions and understand what to expect throughout the process,” says Lauren Heller, mother of twins. This is a great opportunity to discuss with your child what his specific worries are and help him work through them in a healthy way.

kcparent.com may 2017

Rodganna Avery, mother of three, says, “We talk about what to expect and how to handle it. We also try to find books on the topic from the library.”

Relaxation techniques If you find your child is nervous often, sit down ahead of time and discuss some relaxation techniques that can be helpful in calming butterflies when they arise. “I taught my daughter to take slow deep breaths and to pretend she was somewhere else,” says Krystal Laws, mother of seven. Some other relaxation techniques may include stretching, reading a book, sipping a favorite drink,

listening to music or talking to a friend. Many kids find physical activity relaxing. Encourage your child to take a short walk or jog, do jumping jacks, shoot hoops or play on the swing set. These activities will help your child release some nervous energy. Once your child has found a relaxation technique that works for him, he will have a tool in his back pocket when nerves arise.

Visualize and problem solve If your child is nervous about an upcoming recital, performance or game, have her sit still, close her eyes and visualize each step of the upcoming event and how it will go. Picture a positive outcome with everything going smoothly. During the visualization process, address any obstacles your child may foresee. “Before an ice skating performance, we consider what would happen if she fell—just get back up, no big deal,” says Jane Hammond, Olathe mom of three. Problem solve with your child how she can overcome any of the challenges she may be worrying about. As the big day approaches, set your child up for success with a good night’s rest and a healthy diet before the event. This will help him feel he is at his best when the butterflies arrive. Explain to your child that even adults get nervous about situations and these feelings are normal. Children tend to feel more secure in new situations when they know they have your support and understanding along the way. Sarah Lyons lives in Olathe with her family.

Symptoms of anxiety in children While some nervousness is normal in children, kids may suffer from extreme anxiety that negatively affects their day-to-day lives. If your child is experiencing the following symptoms, it may be time to seek additional help: • Children with extreme anxiety may “act out” with tantrums, refusal to do typical activities and generally disobedient behaviors. • Excessive and extreme worry about normal, everyday activities causes him to miss out on events at school or with friends. (KidsHealth.com) • They may be restless, have difficulty concentrating, have trouble sleeping and experience irritability. • They also may experience physical difficulties, such as muscle tension, frequent urination, stomachaches, difficulty swallowing and headaches. (VeryWell.com) If you believe your child may have an anxiety disorder, seek professional help for an official diagnosis and support. In the meantime, continue to be supportive and patient with your child and let him know you will help him work through these challenges.

35-6503 A2.0

3/31/06

2:46 PM

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Chateau Avalon is the world at your doorstep Choose from among 23 unique destination themes. Then relax in your private whirlpool bath. Sink into a custom Beau-Rev mattress enveloped in 300-count Egyptian cotton linens. Enjoy a favorite DVD on the flat-screen TV. And savor a scrumptious breakfast in bed. Only at Chateau Avalon. Call 913-596-6000 now for reservations.

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Special Advertising Section

Interactive Education Guide available at KCParent.com

to 8 weeks. American Camp Association accredited. For more information visit our website at www.TaumSauk.com. See display ad on pg. 36.

Ceramic Café

KC Parent’s

Camp Guide

Accelerated Schools

Camp Wood YMCA

Accelerated Schools of Overland Park offers two summer programs from June 5 through July 28. High School students can earn credit for courses such as math, science, English, Spanish and social studies. Students entering 4 to 8 grade can attend the Academics & Arts Summer Camp, focusing on individualized academic tutoring as well as creative expression. Call 913.341.6666 for further information. See display ad on pg. 35. www.AcceleratedSchoolsOP.org

Your overnight Y camp in the Flint Hills. Trusted by KC families for 100 years, our classic summer camp experience includes archery, canoeing, horseback riding and more. Specialty camps like Skateboarding, Paintball, Leadership and Equestrian Camps are also available. Our ACA-accredited programs help campers build character, learn skills and make friends—all within a safe, caring environment. Choose your adventure at www.CampWood.org. Join us Saturday, May 6, 2017, 1-5 pm for a free Open House. See display ad on pg. 27.

Camp Fire At Camp Fire, campers embark on a special exploration to find their spark and create a camp experience that is truly unique to their interests. They develop an appreciation of nature while enjoying archery, hiking, swimming, arts and crafts, and activities led by experienced counselors. Campers also develop problem solving and socialization skills, including self-reliance and conflict resolution. Participants make their own decisions, have fun, and seek adventure! Learn more at www.CampFireHeartland. org/summer-day-camp. See display ad on pg. 30.

Camp Taum Sauk Camp Taum Sauk, located in the heart of the Ozarks in Lesterville Missouri, on the Beautiful Black River. Overnight summer camp offering a non-competitive fun-filled family atmosphere. Full range of activities including horseback riding, canoeing, kayaking, paddle boarding, tubing, caving, mountain biking, zip lines, ropes course, creative arts and more. Individualized attention and outstanding caring, safety minded counselors. Sessions from 1 week

Ceramic Cafe’s summer program provides instruction in a variety of ceramic art techniques including hand building with clay, ceramic painting and glazing techniques and also glass fusing. Fun themes change every camp session, so kids can sign up for their favorite or enroll more than once. Aspiring Artists sessions run for 4 days and are for ages 8 and up. Several one day Mini Camps and a “Kids and Clay” series are also offered throughout the summer. Visit our website at www.CeramicCafeKC.com for add’l info and registration form. See display ad on pg. 37.

Christian Youth Theater ACT. SING. DANCE. LIVE! CYT Kansas City offers a variety of fantastic summer theatre camps all across the KC metro area. Day camp themes include “Disney Around the World” and “Disney on Broadway” for half-day (ages 4-5 & 5-7) and full-day (ages 7-12) campers. Non-musical Xtreme camps (ages 10-16) include “Star Wars,” “Lord of the Rings,” and “Comic Books.” An all-new High School Master Drama Camp features “The Crucible.” Overnight camps include “High School Musical Jr” (ages 12-14) and “Big Fish” (ages 14-19), with full-length performances. Visit www.CYTKC.org or call 913.681.3318. See display ad on pg. 33.

Cosmosphere From second graders through high school seniors, Cosmosphere campers spread their wings, expand their minds, and have fun they won’t find anywhere else on Earth. Camps include Space 101-501, Mars Academy, Forces of Flight, and Space Medicine. Building robots and

continued on page 28

kcparent.com may 2017

YOUR OVERNIGHT Y CAMP IN THE FLINT HILLS.

For over 100 years, Kansas City families have trusted Camp Wood YMCA for summer camps that are more than just fun. At Y camp, children of all ages learn new skills, build character and make friends. Whether your child loves skateboarding, drama or horseback riding, we offer ACA-accredited camps for all interests and for all kids. Choose your adventure at campwood.org.

Join us for our Open House! May 6, 2017 from 1-5 pm CAMP WOOD YMCA

1101 Camp Wood Road â&#x20AC;˘ Elmdale, Kansas 66850 (620) 273-8641 â&#x20AC;˘ ymca@campwood.org

All 2017 campers receive a FREE one-month family membership at their local Y! kcparent.com may 2017

CAMPGUIDE rockets, SCUBA training like astronauts, interplanetary missions to solve a crisis, learning to fly, understanding the medical demands of long duration space travel… those are just some of ways your child can spend the summer. See display ad on pg. 38 www.Cosmo.org

The Coterie Acts Theatre Classes and Camps WRITING

READING

The Coterie offers camps for kids entering grades K-12 at five sites: Liberty (Liberty CC), Lee’s Summit (MCC Longview), Overland Park (Miller-Marley), The Plaza (Pembroke Hill) and the Northland (MCC Maple Woods). Half-day and full-day camps include creative drama, acting and audition skills. Performance Camps include Shrek the Musical Jr. and Sweeney Todd. Visit www.TheCoterie.org. See display ad on pg. 5.

HOMEWORK HELP

The Culture House Spend your summer at The Culture House! Our 2017 summer programs include dance, theatre, music and art ... all taught by professionally trained adults. “Footloose” (ages 13-19), “Madagascar” (ages 9-13), “Jungle Book Kids” (ages 6-11), Jazz (instrumental) Camp, Painting, Sculpture, Drawing, Disney Revue, Broadway Hits, Songs from Matilda, Songs from Moana, Perfectly Princess, Force Wars, Lion King Revue, Itty Bitty Ballerina, Hip Hop, Jazz, Ballet, Tap & more! Openings limited! See display ad on pg. 29. 913.393.3141. Enroll online: www.CultureHouse.com

Delivering RESULTS ACE THE NEXT REPORT CARD WITH SYLVAN

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Overland Park

Sylvan of Lawrence 913.681.1141

85-842-6284 28

kcparent.com

may 2017 lawdir@sylvanks.com

Shawnee 913.543.6085

Lawrence 785.842.6284

Prairie Village 913.681.8283

From Outdoor Discovery to Just for Fun, we offer over 75 different and well-supervised camp programs conveniently located throughout Johnson County. Dedicated to providing activities that promote emotional, intellectual and physical health, our summer fun choices include nature and science, preschool enrichment, art, sports, computers, leadership development, and music, theatre, and dance. The options

continued on page 30

CAMPGUIDE include both indoor and outdoor programs, and full- and partial-day schedules are available. For details, call 913.831.3359 or visit www.jcprd.com/activities/camps.cfm. See display ad on pg. 28

KampOut-Kanakuk KampOut! brings the fun of one of the largest Christian summer camps in the nation, Kanakuk, to your hometown. Kanakuk professional staff leads this highenergy traveling day camp through five days ofÂ guided sports and activity times, Bible study, worship and small-group time for childrenÂ in kindergarten through 5thÂ grade. To learn more about your local KampOut! visit: www.Kanakuk.com/kampout. See display ad on pg. 34.

Kanakuk Camps Kanakuk is a premier summer camp experience for boys and girls age 6â&#x20AC;&#x201C;18 located in Branson and Lampe, MO. Our 5

Overnight Kids camps provide children with age-appropriate, fun, safe and professional outdoor youth camping experiences that grow them spiritually, physically, emotionally and socially. Kids have fun with friends participating in more than 70 activities, sports and amazing themed parties. Our full-time and summer staff are committed to our mission to develop dynamic Christian leaders. Learn more about customizing your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s summer camp experience at www.GoKanakuk.com. See display ad on pg. 31.

Downtown and Johnson County. See display ad on pg. 33. For more information visit www.KCBallet.org or call 816.931.2299.

Kansas City Young Audiences Kansas City Young Audiences offers children performing and visual arts classes, camps and private instruction at their new creative space on Main Street. Â Spring Break Camps will be held March 13-17. Summer Camps begin in June. Scholarships are available. 816.531.4022. See display ad on pg. 36. www.KCYA.org

Kansas City Ballet

Kansas City Zoo

Kansas City Ballet School Summer Programs include once-a-week classes and four-day ballet camps for children ages 2-7. Camp themes include Beauty and the Beast and Island Adventures. Additional courses and workshops available for ages 8-18. Classes begin June 5th. Enroll today to guarantee your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s spot. Two convenient locations:

Make your summer a little wilder with Zoofari Adventures Summer Camp. Camp runs May 31 through August 12. Your animal enthusiasts will get the inside scoop about the Zooâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s creatures. A typical camp week includes exclusive zoo tours, animal encounters/ shows, science experiments, games, and crafts. Topics vary each week. Half day

continued on page 32

Are Are youyou ready to for have ready onewild wildsu er? su er? one

CAMP FIRE HEARTLAND SUMMER YOUTH DAY CAMP

Su er at Pembroke Hiď&#x203A;&#x20AC; is open to aď&#x203A;&#x20AC; students

Campers develop an appreciation of nature while enjoying hiking, swimming and activities led by experienced counselors. They also learn self-reliance and social skills, including conďŹ&#x201A;ict resolution.

ages 2-18.

Special for teens: Community service at Wayside Waifs and the Kansas City Zoo gardens Camp Lake of the Woods June 19 - Aug. 4, M-F, 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Ages 5-15

Mix & match sessions to fit YOUR summer schedule!! â&#x20AC;˘ Canvas â&#x20AC;˘ Clay â&#x20AC;˘ Glass Fusion â&#x20AC;˘ Ceramics

Maple Woods Community College July 10-28, M-F, 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Ages 5-12

Space Limited! AGES 6-12

KCP

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Offer expires 5/31/17. May be combined with 1/2 studio fee special only. May not be used for camp, classes or special events.

Enroď&#x203A;&#x20AC; online today at Â?w.pembrokehiď&#x203A;&#x20AC;.org 30

kcparent.com may 2017

paintglazeandfire.net 127th & Metcalf, OPKS â&#x20AC;˘ 913-661-CLAY

CAMPGUIDE camps are available for ages 4-5, full day for ages 5-15. COST: ½ Day: $110, Full Day: $250, Aftercare (3:30pm-5:30pm): $15. 10% discount for FOTZ. See display ad on pg. 37. www.KansasCityZoo.org/education

KU Edwards Campus Have your kids dreamed of working at Google or building the latest, greatest app? Do they aim to be an MVP on the cover of Sports Illustrated? The KU Edwards Campus in Overland Park is hosting a variety of summer camps for kids interested in science, technology engineering, math and sports/fitness. Learn more about its camp offerings at EdwardsCampus.KU.edu/ SummerCamps. See display ad on pg. 37.

Nelson-Atkins ‘Camp out’ this summer at the NelsonAtkins! From knights and dragons, to cartoons and animation, to animals and nature, camp and classes at the museum

kcparent.com may 2017

have something for everyone! Full-day camps, multiple week classes and one-time workshops allow you to personalize your art-making experience. Complete listings and details available at www.Nelson-Atkins.org/summer classes. Museum members receive a discount. See display ad on pg. 57.

Nerman Museum Early Explorations classes (ages 5-7) and Contemporary Creations classes (ages 8-11) are interactive art learning experiences. Students learn directly from JCCC’s diverse permanent collection and temporary exhibitions in the Nerman Museum. After exploring selected works of art, students create original works of art in the studio classroom. Classes are offered Tues.-Fri., June 9-July 31, with individual sessions from 10AM-noon or 2PM-4PM. Register at JCCC.edu/youth or call 913.469.2323. See display ad on pg. 34.

Notre Dame de Sion School Join us and get ready to be extraordinary! At Sion Summer Spectacular students can participate in engaging, innovative, and age-appropriate enrichment camps for PreK-8 boys and girls in the arts, STEM, wellness, and fitness led by our outstanding faculty and renowned industry partners. Our program is designed to accommodate your family’s schedule, offering weekly camps, as well as morning and afternoon extended day care options. Whether students take center stage with Camellot Academy, or participate in our weekly classes with our expert instructors and global partners, Sion Summer Spectacular will make their inner superhero shine! To enroll please visit www.NDSion.edu/summer. Grade School Campus: 3823 Locust, KC MO. See display ad on pg. 32.

continued on page 34

PLAN AHEAD WITH OUR SUMMER PROGRAMS FOR AGES 3-18 SUMMER PROGRAMS 2017 Classes are designed to provide your child with excellent ballet training and superior attention from our professional teachers, all while having fun. Classes begin June 5.

PROGRAMS INCLUDE: • Creative Movement ages 3-5

• Under the Sea & Adventure Camps ages 3-5

BOLENDER CENTER 500 W. Pershing Kansas City, MO 64108 Union Station

Pershing

Nall Ave.

I-3 5

Broadway

Photographer Brett Pruitt & East Market Studios

• 1- to 8-week Ballet Classes & Camps ages 3-18

94th Terr.

JOHNSON COUNTY 5359 W. 94th Terr. Prairie Village, KS 66207

W. 95th St.

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

kcparent.com may 2017

S TOIGN DA -U Y! P

Life-Changing Fun & Adventure! t

Day camp experience for elementary age boys and girls Incredible activities including a climbing wall, zip line, and water slides Experience Jesus through Bible Study and Worship Professional, servant-hearted Kanakuk staﬀ A glimpse of the Kanakuk overnight experience

Join us at KampOut! in Kansas City this summer! Several locations available — visit cometokamp.com or call 417.266.3000 to register today.

CAMPGUIDE Paint, Glaze & Fire Ceramics & Coffee House Camp ARTRAGEOUS! Paint Glaze & Fire Ceramics & Coffee House is offering summer camp for its 20thseason! Your child will learn new techniques and have fun creating art in our multi-medium camps (ceramics, clay, canvas & glass fusion). Class size is limited - sign up early! Check it out online and find more information as well as a registration form at www.PaintGlazeAndFire.net. For more information on these and many other fun and creative programs, visit the website. See display ad on pg. 30. 913.661.CLAY (2529).

Primrose School of North Olathe Participating in this kind of high-quality, balanced program doesn’t have to stop at the end of the school year. At the Primrose Summer Adventure Club, children enjoy exploring interesting topics AND continue learning through purposeful play. The Primrose

Get creative at the Nerman Museum! Cam

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

$89Fee

Ages 5-12 Camper Receives: • Free Soccer Ball • Free Camp T-Shirt Camp Director GorAn HunJAk 19 years Pro and US National Team

June 12th – June 16th (9am-noon) Born in Croatia, Goran played Overland Park, KS professionally 19 years in Europe June 19th – June 23rd (8am-11am and US. He coached pro 4 years: 7 time All Star: member of the US Lenexa, KS Indoor National Team: represented June 26th – June 30th (8am-11am) the US in the 1996 Indoor World Blue Springs, MO Cup in Spain; scored over 500 July 3rd – July 7th (8am-11am) professional goals. Goran played Lee’s Summit, MO locally for KC Sporting (Wizards), July 17th – July 21st (8am-11am) KC Comets, and in 18 different Overland Park, KS countries.

913-284-7601

Tuesdays-Fridays, June 6-July 28 10 a.m. - noon or 2-4 p.m. Pre-registration is required. 913-469-2323 • www.jccc.edu/youth

or Register online:

www.victoryinsoccer.org 34

kcparent.com may 2017

Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art Johnson County Community College

Summer Adventure Club builds Active Minds, Healthy Bodies and Happy Hearts® through. In addition to having fun activities and learning we will be taking field trips weekly during the day. Call us to learn more! See display ad on pg. 35. www.PrimroseSummer.com

This summer, imaginations take ffl light.

Quest June 5th-9th.Roller blading, water parks, a visit to the zoo, human foosball, these are just a few of activities that you could experience at QUEST. Quest is summer day camp for students entering 6th-9th grade. Registration is only $50 and covers all activities and snacks. Registration fills up quickly. For more information and to reserve your spot today, visit www.vcc.church. See display ad on pg. 36.

Now Enrolling! Experience the excitement of our Summer Adventure Club where imaginations are free to run wild. Get ready for engineering design challenges, discoveries, outdoor exploration and more. It’s going to be one epic summer. Fun for ages 5 – 10.* Learn more at PrimroseSummer.com. Flexible Schedules • Exciting Adventures Space is Limited – Call Today!

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Each Primrose School is a privately owned and operated franchise. Primrose Schools is a trademark of Primrose School Franchising Company. ©2017 Primrose School Franchising Company. All rights reserved. *Ages for Summer Adventure Club programs vary by location.

continued on page 36

If your child is facing challenges in school, “excelling” may seem out of reach. We specialize If your child is facing challenges in school, “excelling” may seem outinofworking reach. with students whostudents don’t always “fit into We specialize in working with the box.” who don’t always “fit into the box.” For more than will 30 years, Summer programs be heldconcerned parents from June 5 until JulyAccelerated 28, 2017 Schools for have turned to the High School students in grades individualized learning programs that help 9-12 can complete up to students of all academic levels with unique 1 full credit in subjects including educational needs overcome math, science, social studies, challenges and excel English,academically. Spanish and art. All courses accredited the State4of- Kansas • FullareDay School by- Grades 12 and AdvancED. Middle school students, grades 4-8, can Schooland Tutoring - Grades 1-12 attend•theAfter Academics Arts Camp. They can spend•2.5Accredited hours in individualized tutoring•and thenStudent-Teacher ratio Low participate in 1.5Report hours Cards of creative expression. • Daily • Transportation Available Vineyard Community Church All programs are from 9 am until 1 pm, Monday • Effective Reward System • Free Academic Testing 8301 Lamar Ave | (913) 381-5577 | vcc.church through Friday. Individualized tutoring is also available.

June 26-30

The Accelerated Schools of Overland Park The Accelerated Schools Overland 10713 BarkleyofSt., OverlandPark Park, KS

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FOR STUDENTS GOING INTO 1ST - 5TH GRADE FALL OF 2017 Don’t know what to do with those long summer days? VCamp is a week full of fun and safe activities for only $40! kcparent.com may 2017

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engineering, art and math) topics. Campers ages 6-12 engage in life science, physical science, art and innovation each week! Space is limited! Camp runs June 5-Aug 4, Monday through Friday, 9:00-4:00. FREE early and late care available. $200/week for Union Station members, $225/nonmembers. For more information, visit www.ScienceCity.Com/SummerCamp. See display ad on pg. 7.

Roller Skating

This summer is going to be wild! Dare to climb your way to the top of a steep incline, embark on a journey as a ninja warrior, or discover the mysteries of ancient Egypt. Designed to accommodate your family’s busy schedule, our program offers flexibility by allowing you to enroll in any of the weeks you choose. Open to the community, students ages 2-18 are able to participate in our comprehensive summer camp. Enroll online today at www.pembrokehill.org. See display ad on pg. 30. Sing Dance Create Act Paint LaughSummer Sculpt PlayCamps Sing Dance 3732 Main St. Create Act Paint Laugh Sculpt 816.531.4022 KCYA.org andDance Classes Play Sing Create Act Paint at Laugh Sculpt Play Sing KCYA... Dance Create Act Paint Laugh Sculpt Play Sing Dance Create Act Paint Laugh Sculpt Play Sing Dance Create Act Paint Laugh Sculpt Play Sing Dance Create Act Paint Sing Dance Create Act Paint Laugh Sculpt Play Sing Dance Create Act Paint Laugh Sculpt Play Sing Sing Dance CreDance Create Act Paint Laugh ate Act Paint Laugh Sculpt Play Sing Join Dance Create Act Us! Paint Laugh Sculpt Play Sing Dance Create Act Paint Laugh • June – August Sculpt Play Best.Sing • Ages 4 – 18 Dance Create Act Summer. Paint Laugh Sculpt • Weekly classes Play Sing Dance CreEver. ate Act Paint Laugh • Week-long, Sculpt Play Sing full & half-day CAMPS Dance Create Act • Scholarships available Paint Laugh Sculpt Play Sing Dance Cre• Convenient Midtown ate Act Paint Laugh location Sculpt Play ate Act Paint Laugh Sculpt • Schedules and class Play Sing Dance Credescriptions available ate Act Paint Laugh online: www.KCYA.org Sculpt Play Sing Dance Create Act

Sylvan Learning In addition to full range of academic tutoring, Sylvan Learning offers several camps this summer. Elementary students can design video games and create a moving robot in one of our STEM camps, or boost their love of math with Math Edge! For writers—budding or struggling—our Summer Writing Program is just the ticket for students in grades 3–12. And what middle or high school student doesn’t need a study skills refresher? Our Study Skills Boot Camp will help your kids move into the next school year confident and prepared! See display ad on pg. 28. 913.681.1141

& Safari Day Campsthe Zoo! Summer Camps at For kids ages 4–15

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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 ninja uniform. Hurry! You must register for this offer by June 1. Classes

Visit kansascityzoo.org/camp for more details! OPEN DAILY | kansascityzoo.org | 816.595.1234

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continued on page 39

R E M M U S 2017

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CAMPGUIDE fill up every summer, so register today! 913.829.8818 Olathe) or 913.851.5050 (Overland Park). See display ad on pg. 38. www.KCTigerRock.com

VCamp June 26-30. Looking for a low-cost, funpacked, summer day camp for your kids? At Vcamp, kids will explore what it means to be created by God, built for a purpose. Vcamp is for kids entering 1st-5th grade and runs from 10:00 am to 4:30 pm daily. Students bring a sack lunch each day. $40 for the week includes snacks, supplies, and wrap-around care is available at no additional charge. Register online at www.vcc.church. See display ad on pg. 35.

2017 SUMMER CAMPS June 5 – August 11

STAY ACTIVE BE CHALLENGED HAVE FUN

YMCA Is your child ready to have their best summer ever? Y Summer Day Camps are full of learning, adventure, active play and friendship! Traditional camps offer exciting themes weekly. Specialty camps include outdoor, art, sports, engineering and community service. And our Adventure Camp keeps teens excited and engaged throughout the summer. Locations include Blue Valley, Center, Olathe, Platte County, Shawnee Mission and Spring Hill School Districts; Camp Naish; North Kansas City; and Riverside. Ages 3-18. Learn more and register at KansasCityYMCA.org/camp. See display ad on pg. 15.

7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. • Monday - Friday • Ages 6 - 13 Day Camp: $80/week* • Sports Camp: $125/week* Brush Creek • Garrison • Gregg/Klice • Hillcrest Kansas City North • Line Creek • Marlborough Southeast • Tony Aguirre • Westport Roanoke

Victory Soccer Camp Victory Soccer Camp is directed by former US National Team member, Goran Hunjak. He played professional soccer for 19 years and coached professionally. Victory Soccer Camp provides professional quality soccer instruction in a fun and exciting environment, helping youth improve skill, gain confidence, and develop a positive self image. Our camp is designed with various levels of athletic ability including beginner level. For more information or to register go to www.VictoryInSoccer.org or call 913.284.7601. See display ad on pg. 34.

Join us for summer camp at one of our 10 KC Parks & Recreation community centers.

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Farmers Market Cauliflower Fried “Rice”

hey say that December is the busiest time of the year. But as a parent, I have to disagree. It’s May. Between end-of-the-school-year activities, sport schedules and graduation parties, this is a chaotic month for pretty much every parent I know. However, just because it’s busy doesn’t mean we have to default to the drive-thru. Below is an easy and nutrient-packed meal that comes together quickly and is full of fresh spring vegetables. When it comes to Chinese takeout, one of our family’s favorites always has been fried rice. After making the switch to real food, and after realizing that most restaurant versions are loaded with neurotoxic MSG, red no. 40 and meat from animals raised in a completely inhumane setting, we decided to give this popular dish a healthy home makeover. This version has become such a family favorite that we prepare it at least a couple of times a month! It comes together quickly, is a great way to jazz up leftover chicken and is a creative way to use up the abundance of hearty greens that may be overtaking your garden. Winner, winner, chicken (fried rice) dinner! As far as using strawberry preserves, here’s the scoop. Traditional versions of fried rice call for an ingredient called oyster sauce. Finding a brand of oyster sauce that contains only pure ingredients is incredibly difficult. In an attempt to find a more readily available ingredient without compromising the sweet and salty unami flavor of the sauce, strawberry preserves take the stage as a perfect substitution.

SERVES FOUR TO SIX INGREDIENTS: For the stir-fry: 3 c. cooked shredded chicken 3 c. baby bok choy 6 baby bell peppers (or 1 large bell pepper) 1 c. sugar snap peas 2 eggs 2 T. extra virgin olive oil, divided 1 t. sesame oil 3-4 c. cauliflower “rice” (You can buy this in the prepared produce aisle of your grocery store. Use fresh, not frozen.)

1-inch piece fresh ginger 4 cloves garlic 3 green onions For the stir-fry sauce: 2 T. fish sauce 2 T. toasted sesame oil 1 T. organic soy sauce 1 T. strawberry preserves 1½ t. organic cane sugar ¼ t. crushed red pepper Preparations (40 minutes, mostly active; can be done up to a day ahead): Prepare your stir-fry sauce: In a small bowl or ramekin, whisk together all ingredients listed under “for the stir-fry sauce.” Cover and refrigerate if not using within the hour.

kcparent.com may 2017

Mince your ginger, garlic and green onions: Peel, trim and mince a 1-inch piece of ginger, 4 cloves garlic and 3 green onions. Cover and refrigerate if not using within the hour. (This can also be done in a mini foodprocessor.) Prepare your produce: De-stem and thinly slice baby bok choy. Trim and thinly slice 1 c. of baby bell peppers and 1 c. of sugar snap peas. Cover and refrigerate if not using within the hour. INSTRUCTIONS: Heat a large deep skillet or wok over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes. When skillet is hot, lightly scramble your eggs: Pour 1 t. (eyeball it) toasted sesame oil into hot skillet. Lift and swirl skillet to allow oil to coat the pan. Add whisked eggs and stir until they are lightly scrambled, about a minute. Transfer eggs to a large bowl. Prepare your fried “rice”: Pour 1 t. extra virgin olive oil into now empty skillet. Add bok choy to skillet and stir-fry for about a minute. Transfer to the bowl with eggs. Add an additional teaspoon olive oil and bell peppers to skillet. Stir-fry them

for about a minute. Transfer them to the large bowl as well. Repeat the process one more time with the snap peas. When all veggies have had their turn in the skillet, add remaining tablespoon of olive oil, minced ginger, garlic and green onions to skillet. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds. Pour riced cauliflower over aromatics and gently press into skillet. Allow it to crisp up for about a minute. When the first minute has passed, go ahead and stir-fry the “rice” for an additional 30 seconds. When most of the oil has been absorbed, add prepared veggies, chicken, eggs and sauce. Toss to combine and continue to stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, until all ingredients are heated throughout. Getting it on the table: Pour contents of skillet into a large serving bowl. Serve and enjoy! (I don’t think it gets much simpler than this.) Katie Newell is a former junk food junkie turned certified nutrition coach. She is also a culinary instructor, cookbook author and mama to two sweet girls, ages 7 and 9. Check out her cookbook, Feeding Our Families, and find other recipes at HealthnutFoodie.com.

kcparent.com may 2017

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As our kids get older, we may be less likely to know their friends’ parents and how much wiggle room they give their kids. While your teen will try to make you feel as if you’re the lone drill sergeant compared to his friends’ parents, stand firm about what you think is appropriate for your child. “Our job as parents is to make sure our kids are safe and doing the right things,” Kersting says.

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eens by nature crave independence and privacy. As parents, how far should we go to respect their privacy while still ensuring they’re making sound decisions? “The goal is for teens to gradually assume more responsibility for their own judgment about things,” says Dr. Rochelle Harris, clinical psychologist, Division of Developmental and Behavioral Sciences at Children’s Mercy. “This isn’t clear cut—like when they turn 16, you get off of their Facebook or Instagram. It’s really more of making sure those foundations of communication are there.”

kcparent.com may 2017

Determining how much oversight tweens or teens require often depends on their level of maturity, their friends and their personality. Maturity can vary greatly, especially in the middle school years. Where one tween might not have put away her dolls completely, another might be more keyed into social issues and sexual experimentation in middle school—which means you’ll need to have a stronger handle on what’s happening in her social circle. “Who our kids hang out with will determine who they become,” says Tom Kersting, psychotherapist and author of Disconnected: How to Reconnect Our Digitally Distracted Kids.

No mysteries. As soon as your child has access to any digital device, create a “digital citizenship contract” (check online for examples) to make your expectations for online behavior and your house rules crystal clear. Establish sensible consequences to help your kids learn from their mistakes. For example, rather than taking away their phone for two months, set tighter limits like less daily phone time and increased oversight from you until they prove they’re responsible enough to handle it. “A month later, if something similar happens, you do the same thing,” Harris says. Strike a healthy balance by setting a curfew for when all electronics are turned off each evening. “Nothing good happens at 12:30 on a school night if your teen has her phone in her room,” Harris says. Besides sleep deprivation, research suggests that the more time a teen spends online, the more likely she’ll experience cyberbullying. A study presented to the American Public Health Association also finds that “hyper-networkers,” or teens who spend three or more hours a day on social networking sites, were 84 percent more likely to have used illicit drugs and three and a half times more likely to have had sex. Inquiring minds want to know. Teens are likely to shut you out if you get too nosy. Instead, ask “naive” questions to get them thinking critically about issues that can happen online and in their social circles. For example: “I’m hearing a lot about cyberbullying. What does that look like?” “If someone says something nasty and you push ‘like’ on it, does that mean you’re part of that bullying or are you saying you like that person? What does that mean?”

For tips on fostering good communication skills in this digital age, log onto KCParent.com. “Use that as an opportunity to talk about the fundamentals of communication,” Harris says. “Don’t text a friend when you’re upset. Don’t spread gossip—it may make you feel like you’re connected with someone, but it isn’t really the way to connect and it can be very hurtful.” And ask if they’d be comfortable with someone they love and respect, like Grandma, seeing what they’ve posted on their Snapchat account.

When to pry. Tell your kids that you’ll be checking their social media content and text messages. “If kids know that their parent is going to be looking through their stuff, they’re less likely to get themselves in a pickle somewhere with inappropriate content or privates sites where they’re talking to people from all over the country,” Kersting says. Some areas of a kid’s life should be offlimits, like bedrooms and private journals, say most experts.

“The only exception to this is if you are concerned for their safety. In that case, well-being trumps privacy,” says therapist Lisa Ruff, LMSW, who counsels children, teens and adults at her private practice in Leawood. Before snooping through his room, talk to your teen to see whether you can figure out why he seems troubled. Consult with your child’s physician if you notice changes in behavior, school avoidance, changes in diet or sleep or withdrawal from favorite activities, family and friends.

Set aside time together. To help get your child out of her bedroom and into the family room with you, Kersting suggests carving out a device-free 15 to 20 minutes each evening for “mandatory family talk time.” This might be at dinnertime or before bed. “This is such a hugely important way of developing a connection with our kids—for our kids to trust us and be able to

communicate with us freely and tell us the things that are bothering them,” he says. At least once a month, spend time one-on-one with your teen without the distractions of phones or other electronic devices to ensure that you’re both present with one another. “Let them pick what to do,” Ruff advises. “Without siblings being present, homework to be done or an activity to rush to, conversation flows easier.” The time you spend with your teen will benefit him now and into the future, says Kersting. “Kids that actually enjoy hanging out with their parents are the ones that all of the research shows are overall better human beings as they progress in terms of their happiness, well-being, self-esteem, achievements and so forth.”

Freelance journalist Christa Melnyk Hines and her husband are the parents of two digitally charmed kids. She is the author of Happy, Healthy & Hyperconnected: Raise a Thoughtful Communicator in a Digital World.

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favorite kansas city f estivals in may

t’s festival season in Kansas City! From trendy boutique shopping to old-fashioned county fairs, ethnic festivals with delicious delicacies and local barbecue festivals—there is something for everyone! Visit KCParent.com for our complete guide to Festivals in Kansas City. These are some of our annual favorites!

Truman Heritage Festival May 4-6, Grandview, MO, Grandview.org. The Truman Heritage Festival is a FREE three-day event full of fun family-friendly activities and attractions. Enjoy performances by regional and national acts at Grandview’s stateof-the-art amphitheater. The festival also features a parade, one of the nicest carnivals in the state, food and drink vendors and so much more at Meadowmere Park next to the View at 13500 Byars Rd., in Grandview.

Brookside Art Annual May 5-7, Brookside District, BrooksideKC.org. This is the first art show of the year and draws more than 70,000 people from the entire region. The focus of the show is on art! This community loves art shows, and this one consistently ranks in the top 25 shows according to Art Source.

Polski Day May 6, All Saints Parish, 811 Vermont Ave., Kansas City, KS, PolskiDay.com. Celebrate all things Polish at this festival featuring ethnic foods, a parade, cold beer, dancing, games and a polka mass. Join the fun celebrating the rich heritage and history of KCK’s Polish community.

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Strawberry Swing May 6-7, Alexander Majors Barn, TheStrawberrySwing.org. This event has been voted one of the top indie craft fairs in the world. Featuring 100+ handmade and vintage vendors, food trucks, live music, kids crafts, photo booth and so much F-U-N!

Downtown Lee’s Summit Farmers Market Spring Celebration May 13, 7:00-1:00, Downtown Lee’s Summit,

patriotic concert event is the largest FREE Memorial Day weekend festival in the Midwest, and this year welcomes singer Patti Austin as our special musical guest and host.

PLAN AHEAD… Old Shawnee Days June 1-4, Old Shawnee, OldShawneeDays.org.

MO, DowntownLS.org. Enjoy live music and activities for kids while you shop for fresh produce, plants, baked goods and more.

Kick off your summer with everyone’s favorite Shawnee event, Old Shawnee Days! There’s something for everyone: music, carnival rides, contests, games, the parade, crafts, shopping, festival food and so much more.

Turkey Creek Festival May 20, Antioch Park, 6501 Antioch,

Jazzoo June 2, Kansas City Zoo, KansasCityZoo.org. Jazzoo is the

Merriam, KS, Merriam.org. This annual day-long event includes a pancake breakfast, a 5K, an arts and crafts show, live music and a Kid Zone.

Lawrence Busker Festival May 26-28, Lawrence, KS, LawrenceBuskerFest.com. Now in its ninth year, the Lawrence Busker Festival is the area’s largest gathering of street performers. Come join us for three days of family fun with some of the most talented freaks, geeks, artists and musicians around.

Celebration at the Station May 28, lawn of the National WWI Museum and Memorial overlooking Union Station, KCSymphony.org. The Kansas City Symphony’s 15th annual

Kansas City Zoo’s largest fundraiser, and your attendance helps us feed and care for more than 1,700 animals and educate Kansas City youth through our Zoo Learning Fund. Jazzoo includes live jazz music, performers and a delicious array of food and drink.

Downtown Days June 2-4, Downtown Lee’s Summit, DowntownLS.org. Downtown Days is a family-friendly festival featuring live entertainment, arts and crafts, a carnival, delicious food vendors, a kids area and much more in Lee’s Summit’s eclectic downtown district!

Look for more festivals to attend throughout the summer at KCParent.com

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kcparent.com may 2017

Parenting Quiz: Are You a #ParentPro? Spoiler alert: you totally are

Are you a parent who is constantly on fleek? o I s that like a headache medicine? Because, yes. o No, I’m on day three of dry shampoo. o This sounds like a typo of the word “flee,” through which I would thoroughly enjoy drawing a giant red mark on my child’s class paper. o The only thing I’m on is less than five hours of sleep. What’s your go-to article of clothing to give you confidence when you’re out on the town? o The shirt where the vomit remnant sort of looks like Lady Gaga. o “Out on the town” requires paying a babysitter. Pass. o The cardigan with the wine stain because maybe I can lick it later. o My old maternity jeans because they never fail me. Quick! What is your daughter’s best friend’s name? o Smartypants McSassafras o Carly. No, Clementine. Something with a C? *checks phone* Oh, it’s Veronica. o I’m not entirely sure my daughter has friends after what has become known as “the jelly bean incident” at school last week. o Paige. I only know because she broke her arm on my driveway. This year for summer vacation you are taking your children to: o The library. Every day. As soon as they open. o The gym. Not to work out, but so I can give them to the gym daycare and then use the hot tub. #brilliance

kcparent.com may 2017

o Disney World. But I’m secretly o

hoping the Apocalypse happens first. The backyard. They will find it magical or they will find themselves learning the best way to scrub a toilet. Who says I don’t give options?

Do you know how to dab? o Yes. It’s how I get wine out of the carpet. o I still don’t even know what “fleek” is. o Is it something to do with Snapchat? o I know exactly what it is and I do it right in front of the school at pickup and drop-off time. What bill did you just remember you haven’t paid? o It’s not that I didn’t pay it; it’s that I can’t remember my 19-letter password with no repeating letters and a special character, so I got locked out. o OMG! DAYCARE! Can I use “my dog ate my checkbook” as an excuse? o School lunch. HOW DOES THE MONEY RUN OUT SO FAST? o HA! I have them all paid. I think… It’s 2:00 a.m. Why are you awake?

o This is the only time I can binge watch television.

o I had a dream the laundry folded o o

itself and it was so wonderful I just want to lie here and remember it. We need toilet paper and Amazon Prime never closes. I had coffee at 7:30 p.m. and can’t sleep so I’m researching “dab” and “fleek.”

RESULTS: If you made it through this quiz in one sitting…

o YAY! You’re clearly not around your kids, which means you’re alone! Are you on vacation? Can we come with you? If you just found this quiz halfcompleted and don’t understand how anyone would wear maternity pants voluntarily…

o You aren’t a mom yet. Perhaps you just enjoy parenting magazines for the research. That’s just fine with us; take the quizzes now while you still have some free time and your blouse on rightside-out. If you took this quiz and realize you actually do have a shirt with a vomit stain that resembles Lady Gaga…

o Open an eBay page and sell it for hordes of cash. We get 10 percent of the profits. If you took this quiz and even feel a smidge better about being a parent…

o That’s the whole point. Every parent is failing in some way. The good news is if we were perfect at everything, our kids would just want to live with us forever. The goal is to make them happy, but miserable enough that someday they want to move on. Then we can finally get caught up on the TV we’ve been missing. Kim Antisdel is a freelance writer and interior design sales rep for Kansas City. She lives in Liberty with her husband, two stepdaughters, son and small zoo of rescue animals.

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and take a day trip!

ay is meant for picnics! These are a few of our favorite family outing day trips for enjoying early signs of spring and a picnic.

Gieringer’s Orchard

A Day at the Farm Strawberry Picking May means strawberry picking. Gieringer’s Orchard (39675 W. 183rd, Edgerton, KS, 913.893.9626) is our favorite u-pick strawberry farm with fresh fruit ripening mid-May. Always call ahead or verify on their Facebook page that berries are ready to pick. Gieringer’s Orchard is clean, beautiful, hospitable and organized. When you head out for berry picking, dress in play clothes meant for the mess. Teach your children that “redder is better” when it comes to strawberries—leave the green behind because they are still growing! You also should bring a cooler and ice to keep berries fresh for the ride home. After berry picking, head down the road for a visit to the Lanesfield School Historic Site (18745 S. Dillie Rd., Edgerton, KS, 913.893.6645). Tip: You can pick blueberries, blackberries and peaches in the summer months at this local u-pick farm.

kcparent.com may 2017

Picnic Spot: Gieringer’s Orchard offers a nice area where you may picnic if you like (they have a picnic table guests may use). Bring your own picnic and be sure to clean up your mess. They also sell some concessions for light snacks.

A Day Downtown Downtown isn’t just for grown-ups! With the addition of the free KC Streetcar, exploring downtown is easier than ever for families. Add to your adventure with the KC Streetcar Scavenger Hunt on KCParent.com. Start at Union Station and enjoy a show at the newly renovated Gottlieb Planetarium and a morning of exploration at Science City. Then, take the streetcar to the Garment District and snap a picture in front of the World’s Largest Needle and Thread across from the Garment District Museum (open on Saturdays at 801 Broadway). Stop at the Central Library for a game of chess on the roof and peruse the shelves in one of

Kansas City Garment District

For easy lunches to pack for your picnic, head to KCParent.com. the city’s most beautiful libraries. Snap a picture or two in front of the world’s largest bookshelf. Take some time to explore City Market, where you can visit the Arabia Steamboat Museum, grab dessert at Bloom Bakery or buy fresh produce. Thanks to the free rides aboard the streetcar, you can pick and choose your stops at your leisure. Picnic Spot: Stop in the KCP&L District and view downtown’s skyline at Rooftop Park, located atop Cosentino’s Market. Access may be found off of Main Street, between 12th and 13th streets. The park is open from 8:00 in the morning until dusk throughout the summer and offers green space and great views in the center of the city. You may pack a picnic or purchase one from the delicatessen at Cosentino’s. Bring a blanket (there are no tables, only benches) and eat on the lawn atop a downtown roof!

A Day of Local History and Nature Take a break from technology and enjoy an opportunity to get back to nature at one of the most scenic state parks in Missouri. Just north of the river lies Watkins Mill State Park (26600 Park Rd. N., Lawson, MO, 816.580.3387), featuring a 100-acre lake, campgrounds, picnic areas, trails and

Watkins Woolen Mill State Historic Site. This is a great destination for a day trip or a family campout. Tour a 19th-century threestory woolen mill and home to learn what life was like for families many years ago. The mill is the only 19th-century textile mill in the United States with its original machinery still intact. This beautiful state park features a lake with a paved bike path, fishing spots, boating, picnic tables and a swim beach. If you’d like to stay the night, you may make reservations to use the campgrounds. During the day you’ll see white-tailed deer, wild turkeys and a variety of birds (pack binoculars and a good camera). At night you’ll enjoy terrific views for stargazing. In nearby Kearney, MO, you can tour the Jesse James Home (JesseJames.org), the historic site telling the story of the notorious outlaw and preserving Missouri’s Civil War history. Picnic Spot: The state park offers many great picnic shelters. Choose your favorite according to your planned activity: biking, kite flying, fishing, Frisbee, hiking and exploring.

A Day of Art and History Visit the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art (4525 Oak St., Kansas City, MO), where admission is always free. The recently

Kauffman Memorial Gardens

renovated Bloch Galleries showcase some of the finest pieces in the collection. On weekends, the Nelson offers art + family = fun programming to engage children in an appreciation for art. Make it even more fun with the Nelson-Atkins Scavenger Hunt on KCParent.com and ask your children to tell stories about their favorite pieces. Then, take a break at the free Anita Gorman Discovery Center (4750 Troost Ave., Kansas City, MO) and enjoy hands-on history and nature exhibits, including a replica keel boat from Lewis and Clark’s Corps of Discovery journey. Nearby, explore the free Kauffman Memorial Gardens (4800 Rockhill Rd., Kansas City, MO), where something is always in bloom. Learn more local history on a tour of the John Wornall House Museum (6115 Wornall Rd., Kansas City, MO), the historic site that tells the story of Kansas City’s early history and role in the Civil War. Picnic Spot: Loose Park (51st & Wornall, Kansas City, MO), a 75-acre park with a beautiful pond, fields, play areas and an exquisite rose garden, is truly one of the most picturesque parks in the city—perfect for your picnic.

Kristina Light’s family knows that May kicks off their annual picnic season, which carries on into fall! Watkins Mill

kcparent.com may 2017

may

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

CALENDAR

Joey Alexander at Yardley Hall

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

kcparent.com may 2017

shop

see

watch

listen

party

May 6 & 7 shop the Strawberry Swing indie craft fair. Find more than 100 makers, food trucks, live music and more. TheStrawberrySwing.com

See Culture House present the story of Rafiki, Mufasa, Scar and others in The Lion King Jr. May 18-20. CultureHouse.com

The T-Bones kick off the 2017 season against the Lincoln Saltdogs on May 19. T-shirt giveaway and skydivers! TBonesBaseball.com

Piano prodigy Joey Alexander brings his own interpretation to classics showcasing his talents on May 20 at Yardley Hall. JCCC.edu/theseries

Celebrate Memorial Day with Celebration at the Station on May 28. Bring a picnic and enjoy the sounds of the KC Symphony. Free. 816.460.2083

1 Monday Gym for Me 9:00, Lenexa Community Center. Preschool kids can play with others while running, riding and bouncing in our open play. $1. 913.477.7100 Under the Sea Adventure 10:00, Crown Center. Plunge into a fun, creative exploration of the deep blue sea. Free. CrownCenter.com Open Play 10:00, Jump City. Bring the kids to Jump City—where excitement and laughs are found daily! $8/child; parents are free. JumpCityKC.com Jazz on the Square 5:30, Corbin Theatre (Liberty). Enjoy live jazz. The music will keep your toes tapping, and the ballads will warm your heart! CorbinTheatre.org Foster and Adoptive Parent Training 6:00, KVC. Are you interested in becoming a foster or adoptive parent? For more info and to register call 913.890.7513.

2 Tuesday

Toddle Time 9:00, Matt Ross Community Center. Open playtime with an array of toys, including blocks, balls and puzzles. $1-$2. 913.895.6350

The Velveteen Rabbit 10:00, H & R Block City Stage. The story of love, reality and imagination and the deep bond between a toy rabbit and boy. TYA.org

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

Spring Has Sprung! Preschool Crafts 1:30, Olathe Indian Creek Library. Drop in to make a fun spring craft! All materials provided. OlatheLibrary.org Family Feast Day Pizza Shoppe. Get a single topping King pizza, two Shoppe house salads and an order of garlic cheese bread for only $18.99. PizzaShoppe.com

3 Wednesday Farmers Market 7:00, Downtown Lee’s Summit. Shop for a variety of fresh produce, plants, meat, baked goods, crafts and more. 816.246.6598 Over the Rainbow: Toys from the Land of Oz Thru Aug, National Museum of Toys and Miniatures. Explore all things Oz through playthings, books, costumes and more. 816.235.3000

4 Thursday Toddler Time 9:30, Blue Springs Fieldhouse. Kids can play on mats, slides, scooters and more! We will set up the equipment and you’ll have the fun! $2-$3. BlueSpringsGov.com Elephant & Piggie’s We Are in a Play! 10:00 & Noon, the Coterie. Kids will love this lively musical adapted by Mo Willems from his wildly popular books. TheCoterie.org Coffee Playground 10:00, OP First Assembly of God. Free play in the gym for kids 5 and under. Inflatables, scooters, balls and other toys! OverlandParkMOPS.com Truman Heritage Festival Thru Saturday, the View. Carnival rides, concerts, food, local vendors, parade and so much more. Grandview.org

NE W!

Preschool Indoor Playground 9:30, Irene B French Community Center. Kids, drive your favorite vehicle, jump in the bounce house or pretend in the kitchen. $2. 913.322.5550

Learn and Play Playgroup 10:00, Early Learning Hub (Hospital Hill). Educational activities and materials, a light snack, toys to check out and more. 816.516.2399

OPENS MAY 2017! LEGOLANDDiscoveryCenter.com/KansasCity

kcparent.com may 2017

Elephant & Piggieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s We Are in a Play! Thru May 21, the Coterie. Kids will love this lively musical adapted by Mo Willems from his wildly popular books. TheCoterie.org

5 Friday Plant Sale 9:00, Overland Park Arboretum. Great way to introduce children to gardening. Choose from locally grown perennials and annuals. 913.685.3604 Campus Visit Day 1:30, Summit Christian Academy. Visit the campus to see all we have to offer your student. RSVP to 816.525.1480. Plein Air Fest Thru May 13, Penn Valley Park. Artists from across the country gather for a paint-off to capture the beauty of Penn Valley Park. PleinAirKC.com First Fridays 5:00, Crossroads Art District. Galleries and shops remain open the first Friday of each month. KCCrossroads.org Gears of Glory Car Show 6:00, Holy Trinity Catholic School. Check out cool cars and enjoy great food available for sale. Kids game and inflatables. GearsOfGlory

Tween Night 6:30, Paint, Glaze & Fire. Spend Friday night with friends! $25 includes pizza, drink and pottery. Prereg at 913.661.2529. Barbeque & Brew Festival Thru Sunday, Worlds of Fun. This 21+ event features craft beers from around the region and tasty barbecue. WorldsOfFun.com Lansing DAZE/Brew, Blues & Bar-B-Q Thru Sunday, Kenneth W Bernard Park. Rides, music, barbecue, inflatables, fireworks and more! Lansing.ks.us Brookside Art Annual Thru Sunday, 63rd & Brookside. Enjoy a festive atmosphere, hospitality, convenience and, of course, art. BrooksideKC.org

6 Saturday 1st Saturday 9:00, Shoal Creek Living History Museum. Reenactors bring the village to life with skits, skirmishes and demonstrations. 816.792.2655

Photo by J. Robert Schraeder and courtesy of the Coterie Theatre.

Build a Flower Pot Workshop 9:00, Home Depot. Build a flower pot to hold spring flowers to keep or give to Mom. Free. HomeDepot.com Sheep Shearing 9:00, Missouri Town 1855. See the entire process of harvesting wool, from the shearing and washing, to carding, spinning, dyeing and weaving. $4-$7. 816.503.4860

READ BOOKS. DO FUN STUFF. EARN FREE STUFF.

Learn more at

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kcparent.com may 2017

Star Wars Party 9:30, Paradise Park. May the force be with you! Enjoy adventure throughout the park with characters from Star Wars. Paradise-Park.com

Spring Nature Walks 10:30, Fort Osage. Learn about the flora and fauna surrounding Fort Osage and enjoy a guided hike. $4-$7. 816.650.3278

Food Truck Festival 4:00, Warehouse Arts District (Lawrence). Enjoy 30 food trucks, live entertainment, bounce house and more. $10; kids under 10 are free. 785.856.2389

Family Fun Fiesta Today & tomorrow, Kansas City Zoo. Enjoy cultural crafts, and the animals enjoy fiesta-themed enrichment items. KansasCityZoo.org

Tractor Cruise Nat’l Ag Hall of Fame. Vintage tractor enthusiasts gather to drive the 35-mile loop in Wyandotte and Leavenworth counties. AgHallOfFame.com

Family Pops Spectacular 7:00, Lee’s Summit High School Performing Arts Center. Have a great time at this family pops concert experience with instrument petting zoo and more. LSSymphony.org

Strawberry Swing Today & tomorrow, Alexander Majors Barn. Indie craft fair with more than 100 makers, food trucks, live music, kids crafts and more. TheStrawberrySwing.com

Polski Day 11:00, All Saints Parish Church Grounds. Family fun event includes Polish music, food and entertainment. PolskiDay.com

7 Sunday

Spring Plant Sale Today & tomorrow, Powell Gardens. Find new plants and the best of the tried-and-true carefully selected by horticulture employees. PowellGardens.org Buck Day 10:00, Independence Historic Sites. $1 admission at historic sites around town and activities celebrating the life and times of Harry Truman. VisitIndependence.com City Imagineerium 10:00, Pierson Auditorium (UMKC). Kids spend the day building the city of their dreams. $10-$15. LearnScienceAndMathClub.org

Open Gym 12:30, Elite Gymnastics & Aquatics. Run, jump and play in the foam pit, rope swings and more. EliteGymSwim.com Open House 1:00, Camp Wood. Visit with staff, tour camp and try favorite camp activities like archery and arts and crafts. CampWood.org Family Fun 1:00, Case Park. Family-friendly event with a pop-up adventure playground, music, arts and crafts activities and more. Free admission. Reading in the Roses 2:00, Laura Conyers Smith Rose Garden at Loose Park. Readings occur in the rose garden. Free. KCParks.org

KC Northern Train Rides Noon, Line Creek Park. Ride restored trains around a half-mile track in the park. $.75/ride. KCNRR.com Family Fiesta! Noon, Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium (Omaha). Enjoy dance and a live mariachi band, bounce houses, airbrush tattoos and much more. OmahaZoo.com art + family = FUN 1:00, Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Join us every Saturday and Sunday for free activities for all ages! 816.751.1278

8 Monday Pompeii: The Exhibition Thru May, Union Station. Exhibit examines lives of the residents of Pompeii before and after the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. UnionStation.org

kcparent.com may 2017

Women’s Self Defense Class May 17, 6:30, Tiger Rock (Overland Park). Women’s self defense class by senior master Lili Bowen. $20. KCTigerRock.com

Gym for Me 9:00, Lenexa Community Center. Preschool kids can play with others while running, riding and bouncing in our open play. $1. 913.477.7100

Creative Story Time 11:00, Ceramic Café. Read a book and then paint a ceramic item that goes along with the story. Finish with a snack. $12. CeramicCafeKC.com

Toddler Town 10:00, Roger T Sermon Center. Kids can run and play at the indoor play area for ages 5 and under. $1/child. ci.Independence.mo.us

10 Wednesday

9 Tuesday

Toddler Town 10:00, Roger T Sermon Center. Kids can run and play at the indoor play area for ages 5 and under. $1/child. ci.Independence.mo.us

Jumperoo 9:00, Urban Air Trampoline Park. A special time for those 5 and under to enjoy access to the playground and trampoline attractions. $10/child. 913.298.0626

Story Time for Preschoolers 10:30, MCPL (Various Branches). An exciting and unique story time journey for ages 3-5. MyMCPL.org

11 Thursday

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

Toddler Time 9:30, Blue Springs Fieldhouse. Kids can play on slides, scooters and more. We set up the equipment, and the kids have the fun! $2-$3. BlueSpringsGov.com

T-Bones Game 7:05, Community America Ballpark. Watch the T-Bones take on the SouthShore RailCats in an exhibition game. TBonesBaseball.com

Elephant & Piggie’s We Are in a Play! 10:00 & Noon, the Coterie. Kids will love this lively musical adapted by Mo Willems from his wildly popular books. TheCoterie.org

Preschool Indoor Playground 9:30, Irene B French Community Center. Kids, drive your favorite vehicle, jump in the bounce house or pretend in the kitchen. $2. 913.322.5550 Toddler Tuesdays 10:00, Sea Life Aquarium. One adult and one child under 4 can visit Sea Life for only $14! VisitSeaLife.com

SPLASH INTO SUMMER AT STARLIGHT

JUNE 3–11

Bring the whole family! Tickets start at $14* kcstarlight.com | 816.363.STAR *Service fee may apply. Available Sun.–Wed.

kcparent.com may 2017

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The Velveteen Rabbit 10:00, H & R Block City Stage. The story of love, reality and imagination and the deep bond between a toy rabbit and boy. TYA.org Annie Warbucks Thru Sunday, Bell Cultural Events Center. CYT presents the story that picks up right where Annie leaves off. CYTKC.org

What would a librarian do if story time at the library was interrupted by an oncoming tornado? Join us as we tell the most famous tornado story of all!

12 Friday National Public Gardens Day 8:00, Overland Park Arboretum. Knowledgeable volunteers will be giving tours throughout the day. Tours are free. OPABG.org The Orchestra Rocks 10:00 & 11:30, Kauffman Center. Enjoy hands-on activities and an interactive performance with the Kansas City Symphony. $2-$5. KCSymphony.org First Discoveries 10:00, New Vision Church (Raymore). Fun and creative art class for preschoolers. Explore the fundamentals of art. $3/child. 816.516.9318 Paint Me a Story 10:30, Paint, Glaze & Fire. Paint a pottery piece that goes along with a favorite story. Snack included. $13-$15. Pre-reg at 913.661.2529.

June 20 - July 9 For tickets, contact Central Ticket Office at 816-235-6222 or online at mesnerpuppets.org

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KC PARENT FAMILY FUN ZONE Located next to Town Hall Saturday 12:00pm – 6:00pm Sunday 12:00pm – 5:00pm TONS of FREE Children’s Activities and Performances

SATURDAY, JUNE 3 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 1:30 pm 2:00 pm 2:30 pm 3:00 pm 3:30 pm 4:00 pm 4:30 pm 5:00 pm 5:30 pm

Professor Farquar Hula Hoop Contest Martika Daniels Whipped Pie Bubble Blowing Contest Buffalo Chip Throwing Jason D’Vaude Water Balloon Toss Sack Races & Three Legged Races Field Games Wild Whips Show Professor Farquar

SUNDAY, JUNE 4 12:00 pm 12:30 pm 1:00 pm 1:30 pm 2:00 pm 2:30 pm 3:00 pm 3:30 pm 4:00 pm 4:30 pm

Turtle Races (BYOT) Martika Daniels Wild Whips Show Hula Hoop Contest Buffalo Chip Throwing Relay Races Martika Daniels Jason D’Vaude Water Balloon Toss Professor Farquar

THURSDAY, JUNE 1 – SUNDAY, JUNE 4 SHAWNEE TOWN 1929 | 11600 JOHNSON DRIVE, SHAWNEE, KS | OLDSHAWNEEDAYS.ORG THURSDAY 6:00pm – 10:00pm (carnival, concert, & food booths only)

FRIDAY 6:00pm – 10:00pm

SATURDAY 11:00am – 10:00pm (PARADE AT 10:00am)