FREE | May 2018 | KCParent.com | Since 1985
celebrate may • mom wisdom • nature walks • end-of-school checklist
KIDS WORRIED
SICK
A look at the anxiety epidemic facing today’s youth
For our first trick:
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Learn more at KCkidsER.com. Text “ER” to 32222** to view current average ER wait times in your area.
ER CARE FOR KIDS & ADULTS Belton Belton Regional Medical Center I-49 (Hwy 71) & Hwy 58
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Independence Centerpoint Medical Center 39th St. & Little Blue Pkwy
ER of Brookside Rockhill Rd. & Holmes Rd.
Lee’s Summit Lee’s Summit Medical Center Northeast of Hwy 50 & Todd George Rd. Lexington Lafayette Regional Health Center 15th St. & State St.
Olathe ER of Olathe East of Black Bob Rd. on 135th St. Overland Park Menorah Medical Center 119th St. & Nall Ave.
Overland Park Regional Medical Center • Main ER • Dedicated Pediatric ER I-435 & Quivira Rd. Shawnee ER of Shawnee West of I-35 on Shawnee Mission Pkwy
* According to National Pediatric Readiness ** Message and data rates may apply. For more information visit texterhelp.com. ER wait times are approximate and provided for informational purposes only. If you are having a medical emergency, call 9-1-1. 20080 A 2/2018
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MAY
2018
IN EVERY ISSUE 12 Media Mix 19 Word from Dad
CELBRATE THE END OF THE SCHOOL YEAR, PG. 48
22 Craft Corner 45 News You Can Use
SPECIAL SECTIONS
FEATURES
24 Party Guide 32 Camp Guide 50 Calendar of Events
14
46
22
Do Nothing
Tin Can Planters
Meal Kits
The importance of downtime for kids and adults
Create a cute gift for Mother’s Day or a teacher
Do meal delivery kits make dinner cheaper or faster? Our cover features Leah from Lenexa. Cover and select interior photos by KiaBondurant.com. FREE | May 2018 | KCParent.com | Since 1985
celebrate may
ON THE COVER
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Nature Walk
16
Mom Wisdom
20
Anxiety in Kids
28
End of the School Year
48
• mom wisdom • nature walks • end-of-school checklist
KIDS WORRIED
SICK
A look at the anxiety epidemic facing today’s youth
Your
MOTHER’S DAY IS
SUNDAY, MAY 13
This year show mom that she’s loved with a gift from Family Tree Nursery. Choose from a variety of hydrangeas, roses, prearranged containers, hanging baskets and more! 3 retail locatiis ff yyr shhping ccvenience! familytreenursery.com
/familytreenursery
@family_tree_nursery
EDITOR’SLETTER MAY 2018
kansas city’s #1 travel guide since 2010
spring/summer 2018
kcgoingplaces.com BETTER THAN EVER WHAT’S NEW IN KC
FARM-TO-TABLE DINING FEAST ON TASTY LOCAL DISHES
NATURAL WONDERS OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
517
WAYS TO EXPLORE KANSAS CITY
PLANNING YOUR SUMMER? Then be sure to pick up the latest issue of KC Going Places!
Publisher Michael Gimotty Michael@KCParent.com Associate Publisher Darrell Dean Darrell@KCParent.com Editor Margaret Sarver Margaret@KCParent.com Art Director Kim Tappan Tappan Design Kim@KCParent.com Advertising Sales Darrell Dean Advertising@KCParent.com Digital 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), Allison Gibeson (Lee’s Summit), Susan Gimotty (Overland Park), Lauren Greenlee (Olathe), Christa Melnyk Hines (Olathe), Megan Kapple (Kansas City), Gina Klein (Kansas City), Kristina Light (Kansas City), Erin McIntosh (Shawnee), Jessica Samuel (Kansas City)
Mailing Address 11936 W. 119th #335, Overland Park, KS 66213 913.782.3238 phone • 913.681.5139 fax OUR PRODUCTS FREE | May 2018 | KCParent.com | Since 1985
celebrate may • mom wisdom • nature walks • end-of-school checklist
kansas city’s #1 travel guide since 2010
kcgoingplaces.com
WHAT’S NEW IN KC
A look at the anxiety epidemic facing today’s youth
maternity
APRIL- JUNE 2018 | KCPARENT.COM
common pregnancy fears
FARM-TO-TABLE DINING
busted!
FEAST ON TASTY LOCAL DISHES
NATURAL WONDERS OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
the
labor & delivery issue
everything you need to know about baby’s
KIDS WORRIED
SICK
baby&
spring/summer 2018
BETTER THAN EVER
517
WAYS TO EXPLORE KANSAS CITY
4 NAPS 4 SWIM
LESSONS
4 MELTDOWNS
tips for surviving
bed rest
.com
I
t’s here! We’ve made it! It’s over, finished, finito! I’m, of course, referring to the end of the school year. And I couldn’t be more thrilled! My most favorite day of summer break is the very first one, because each one after that inches us closer and closer to that time in August that shall not be named. For terrific ideas on closing out the year with a bang, check out Kristina Light’s article on pg. 48. The May calendar is always packed so full that it can make your head spin. To deal with the craziness, it may be a good idea to schedule a day to do nothing. Yep, I encourage you to put it on your calendar to make sure it happens. Melissa Bellach has some ideas on how to embrace doing nothing on pg. 14. One of the things I like to do when I have a day of nothing planned is take a walk. I have my usual route but often like to mix it up and even head off the beaten path sometimes. I find walking clears my mind and helps me re-center myself. Sometimes kids come with me or sometimes I go by myself. If you enjoy walking, check out Allison Gibeson’s article on pg. 16 for ideas to spruce up your walk. I’m in the stage of parenting where I don’t know a whole lot. Don’t believe me? Ask my two teens. If you can relate, then I know you are also in the throes of parenting teens. I have to admit, when I was a teen I was also very sure that my mom really didn’t know much at all. And, as I matured, I learned how smart she really is. As we celebrate these special ladies in May, Olathe mom Lauren Greenlee looks at mom wisdom on pg. 20. Happy Mother’s Day to all of the KC Mammas!
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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
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KCPARENT.COM
KCParent.com Even More Local Parenting Information, Articles, Events and Giveaways
SEARCH KCPARENT.COM FOR MORE AFFORDABLE FUN IDEAS: 1. Best of May in KC
Expecting?
2. Kids Eat Free 3. Worlds of Fun Ticket Giveaway
4. Coupons and Giveaways
Use KC Parent’s virtual Hospital Labor & Delivery Guide to choose the best medical care for mother and baby.
5. Best Parks in KC 6. Festival Guide
SPOTLIGHT
HOSPITAL LABOR & DELIVERY GUIDE Check out the Virtual Hospital Labor & Delivery Guide at KCParent.com to search hospitals by location, NICU level, classes and more.
WIN TICKETS! Giving away 40 tickets
7. End of School Year A-Z 8. Virtual Camp Guide
FAMILY FAVES KC Parent is celebrating 15 years of Family Faves! Visit KCParent.com to nominate and vote for your favorite local businesses. You’ll be entered to win tickets to the opening weekend of Incredibles 2 just by participating in the Family Faves contest!
9. Memorial Day Weekend Events 10. Complete Calendar of Events
4 MORE WAYS TO STAY CONNECTED
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kcparent.com may 2018
9
SPONSORED CONTENT
clearing the clutter…and GIVING BACK
W
ith the end of the school year approaching and spring cleaning in full swing, getting organized around the house is often a priority. Goodwill shares some tips for being the most productive when cleaning and organizing in your home. Your office desk and your email apps have an inbox and an outbox. Does your house have an outbox? If not, try creating a donation station. You can designate a donation station in a closet, a spot in the garage or an out-of-theway corner, whatever works for you and your family. Have family members place items they no longer need or want in the station. The purpose is to have a place to corral all of those decisions as soon as you make them, giving items you are finished with less chance of
getting mixed back into your stuff again. Not sure where to start? Pick just one room to tackle at a time. Keep some containers you don’t mind giving away at your designated donation station, like paper grocery or shopping bags or boxes. When the containers are full, put them in your car for your next trip to Goodwill. Another tip for clearing out the clutter is to include your children in the decision-making process of getting rid of unneeded items and organizing remaining ones. Talk with them about how decluttering can bring a feeling of renewal, new energy and empowerment. Teach them that by donating unwanted items (to Goodwill of course!) they are giving back to the community and empowering others who will benefit from the donated items.
And have your family follow the “one in, one out” rule. When you purchase something or receive a gift and bring that new item into the house, get rid of a similar item. For example, if you get a new pair of shoes, one of your other lessloved pairs of shoes needs to go! This can be hard for kids, but the earlier you start, the better! It’s a win-win! When you clear out the clutter, you’re not only getting organized but you’re also helping the community. That’s because when you donate to Goodwill, sales from your donations fund employment programs and services, where local job seekers get the skills and confidence they need to find gainful employment.
To find a donation center near you, visit MoKanGoodwill.org.
Want to shed 20 pounds? Drive up and drop off used items at a nearby Goodwill Donation Centers. Turn your excess into access for Kansas City’s job seekers. Find the closest location Donation Center at MoKanGoodwill.org.
GOOD GOES FURTHER.
TM
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The starting point for a healthy smile. Did you know? Kids and teens need extra help keeping their teeth clean when they have braces. We offer both dental and orthodontic specialties in our office. We can combine appointments to reduce trips to multiple offices. Locations:
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Legends 10940 Parallel Pkwy Kansas City KS 66109 913-948-8688 Owner John P. Roth DDS and family Board Certified Pediatric Dentist Board Certified Orthodontist
StartingPointDental.com
Caring Adults Needed Foster parenting is one of the best ways to help children in crisis In the Kansas City area, there are 4,000 children and teens who have experienced abuse, neglect or other family challenges. Foster parenting provides a child with a safe, loving environment. It will also enrich your life with joy and meaning. People from all kinds of life situations can qualify!
We’ll guide you every step of the way by providing: • Free training and ongoing support available 24/7 • A sense of community with other foster parents who share your passion • Assistance finding local resources • A fun weekend away at our Resource Family Conference, which provides a fantastic learning experience for parents and children • And of course, monthly reimbursement to meet the child’s needs plus assistance with back-to-school supplies and holiday gifts.
Contact us to learn more. (888) 655-5500 | www.kvckansas.org We offer FREE training classes and support you every step of the way. kcparent.com may 2018
11
spring into books
MEDIAMIX
By McGeath Freeman
Rot, the Cutest in the World
I Am Harriet Tubman
The Secret Sheriff of Sixth Grade
By Ben Clanton
By Brad Meltzer
By Jordan Sonnenblick
Best for: Ages 4-8
Illustrated by Christopher Eliopoulos
Best for: Ages 9-12
Best for: Ages 4-8 Rot is not the “cutest in the world.” He is a mutant potato with mismatched eyes, a few strands of hair and a unibrow. What he lacks in physically adorable attributes, Rot makes up for with his confidence. So when he spies a sign for a Cutest in the World contest, he doesn’t hesitate to enter. The competitors are so mean, Rot considers changing himself. This moment of weakness offers a chance to inject some humor in the illustrations. In the end, Rot finds himself just as he was— and that is enough for him.
From a series titled People That Changed the World, this book focuses on the traits that made Harriet Tubman a hero. The text and illustrations are very accessible for young children, and this book puts a much-needed focus on African-American leaders and their contribution to our nation. Harriet Tubman was one of the greatest, and Meltzer’s volume offers a small glimpse for young children into her heroism as an integral part of the Underground Railroad and the movement to abolish slavery in the United States.
What’s good: Rot’s engaging and
What’s good: Conversational tone
heroic personality.
makes the book very accessible.
What’s bad: Twist ending leaves doubt on the judges’ verdict.
What’s bad: Oversimplifies Harriet Tubman’s challenge.
Like Sonneblick’s teen fare, this tween novel deftly deals with family, friends and death. The Secret Sheriff of Sixth Grade follows Maverick, a young man who wants to make his middle school a better place. Sonnenblick offers humor and heartbreak in a tale that will draw young readers in before they know what’s happening. Whether dealing with a family crisis or school bully, this character is eminently relatable to tween readers who will find this book very accessible.
What’s good: Good blend of humor and emotional honesty for young readers. What’s bad: Some young readers may find the pacing a little slow.
Learn more at mymcpl.org/FUN Build up points by reading, doing activities, and going to special Library programs. Earn free books, and be eligible to win prizes! Special Thanks to Our 2018 SLP Partners:
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Kindle Fire
Kindle Fire Kids Edition
celebrating
FAMILY TALK ABOUT DRINKING
• Dress for a mess! Most of our local patches are as “tidy” as a
Closing Date: 4/12/18
Pub: KC Parent Mag
for toddlers and preschoolers! Be prepared for stooping and bending over.
farm could possibly be. But let’s face it, you will be bent over in the dirt picking juicy berries.
• Bring wipes for messy fingers. • Bring bottled water (and perhaps snacks too depending on
• Teach your children that “redder is better” when it comes to
• Bring a cooler and ice to keep berries fresh for the ride
your lunch plans).
Job/Order #: 301406 QC: cs
strawberries. Leave the green behind; they are still growing!
home. You may want to bring a few plastic containers that fit properly in your cooler for the berries. The boxes the patch provided were too wide for my cooler, and I had to gently pour the berries loose into the cooler. It worked, but plastic would’ve been ideal. Brand: Bud Item #: PCA20155317
QC: CW: CD: AD:
• Strawberry plants are low to the ground—the perfect height
AM:
PM:
Trim: 3.6" x9.875 " Bleed: none"
Strawberry Picking Tips
PO:
O
ur family loves to pick our own produce annually at Kansas City’s local u-pick farms...whether it’s blueberries and peaches in the summer or apples in the fall, or fresh vegetables and berries throughout the season. But one of my personal favorites is strawberry picking!
“STAY INVOLVED
MUST INITIAL FOR APPROVAL
By Kristina Light
IN THEIR LIVES TO PREVENT
UNDERAGE DRINKING!
“
Live: 3.35" x 9.625"
kansas city’s strawberry season
-MJ CORCORAN PARENT COACH
Our Favorite Uses for Fresh Strawberries
• Eat them fresh—straight, with cream or in cereal! • Make smoothies! We love to experiment. Toss strawberries,
yogurt, ice, some additional favorite fruits and perhaps some milk all into the blender and voila!
• Bake pie and strawberry muffins. Share with friends and
• THEN, if you still have berries...I store them in the fridge
Parents are the number one influence on teens’ decisions about drinking alcohol.* Learn how to be a positive influence this prom and graduation season.
neighbors!
until they are “about to turn.” Then I clean and freeze them. Our family uses the frozen berries year-round!
Visit KCParent.com for a guide to local u-pick strawberry fields.
© 2015 ANHEUSER-BUSCH, ST. LOUIS, MO
*SOURCE: 2015 GFK ROPER YOUTH POLL, CONDUCTED USING GFK’S WEEKLY OMNIWEB STUDY.
kcparent.com may 2018
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make time for nothing schedule some R&R into each day
W
hen we look at our family calendar, we often see it full of meetings, practices, classes and playdates. December is generally a busy month as we close out the year with family gatherings and prepare for winter break from school. However, the end-of-school activities that take place in the month of May can rival December’s load as one of the most fastpaced months. As you jump from activity to activity, keeping organized and keeping things in perspective can be difficult. “May is a crazy month for us. We have wedding anniversaries, birthdays, Mother’s Day, graduations and all of the school parties and field trips for end-of-the-year. I feel like it is our craziest time! It really makes me look forward to summer,” says Kasey Webb, Olathe mom. Looking forward to the slower pace of summertime can be refreshing. During the summer, we have the opportunity to catch our breath, to take a vacation and gather our thoughts before diving into the schedule and
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activities of the fall. “Summer is our time to reconnect as a family and loosen the ties,” Elizabeth Maddox, Shawnee mom, says. “We don’t have such a busy schedule and we get to stay up a bit later, enjoy each other and just relax. It is such important time.” Although summer tantalizes with loads of enjoyable activities, parents need to guard the downtime diligently and not overbook—and maybe even schedule some R&R into each day. According to Psychology Today, the recent advances in technology and connectivity have made it almost impossible for families to slow down. Not only are families facing full calendars, but they are reminded via social media about the activities of their friends and family members and often feel the need to keep up. “Sometimes it feels like people these days are busy just for the sake of being busy,” says Mary Brown, Kansas City, MO, mom. However, the importance of slowing down, relaxing and even allowing some time for boredom cannot be overlooked. “I know that we function better, each of us and as a family, if we take some time off. If we give
ourselves some time to just veg out, we get along better and enjoy the activities we participate in,” says Kim Thomas, Gladstone mom. So, how do you make sure you don’t overschedule your family during the springtime rush and “lazy” days of summer? Here are a few tips:
Put downtime on the calendar. “In our house, putting it on the calendar is the only way it happens,” says Sarah Wells, Lenexa mom. Look at your schedule and the events you need to attend, then prioritize. Some will be obligations and some events will be enjoyable for everyone. Allow yourself to pick and choose what works for your family, then block off some days to rest and relax in between.
Embrace the boredom. Being bored isn’t all bad! During downtime when no events or activities are scheduled, families must come up with their own entertainment. This can include just relaxing together, watching movies or playing games,
or it can be a time when each person engages in his or her own downtime activity. Boredom can inspire creativity and allow each person some time to think about the future, to set goals and to process recent events. Reflecting on your busiest times allows you to recognize what type of events you want to keep on your calendar going forward!
Summer break from school doesn’t mean kids’ development has to be on vacation, too. Summertime at the Y focuses on achievement, relationships and belonging — three important drivers of healthy youth development.
Set yourself up to succeed. There is no reason to put pressure on yourself or your family to keep up an exhausting pace. Go into your busy months with a focus on enjoying each event and making the most of your time. If you set the expectation for everyone that downtime will be included in your planning, everyone will expect and look forward to the time off.
REGISTER NOW! DAY CAMPS FILL QUICKLY.
Melissa Bellach is a freelance writer, wife and mother of three living in Overland Park.
KansasCityYMCA.org/Camp
Staying Organized During the Busy Season of Spring How do you keep organized when the schedule is tight and you also are trying to find time to relax? Here are a few suggestions to help you simplify!
• Create a shared calendar for the family. This can be a shared digital tool or a paper calendar posted in a shared living area.
• Communicate about the extras. Make sure to note when an event requires you to bring food, for the kids to complete an assignment or whether you need to dress formally. This prevents a last-minute panic to get things in place.
• Think ahead. Ask family members to take a look at the shared calendar in advance of a busy week and make any needed changes.
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Start small and build up. Don’t start out planning a big hiking vacation in the mountains. A simple walk around the block might be all the kids are up to at first. Set small, attainable goals that build on each other.
Set realistic expectations. “There is going to be at least one meltdown,” Johnston says. “It’s just like getting through anything with kids.” She recommends going with the flow, laughing off the less-than-stellar moments and knowing the limits of your children. Also, having plenty of snacks always helps. Just let the kids be kids and do their own thing—and it’s okay if they come back a bit dirty.
Make the walk an adventure.
walking into
nature
f
Put the screens away and enjoy the great outdoors with the family
or Kearney mom Haley Kelley, a walk outside with her kids isn’t just a walk. It’s a time to get into nature, examine animal tracks, use the senses to take in what they see and learn basic navigation skills. “They have learned a lot of survival techniques,” Kelley says. “It gives them something other than technology to rely on.” Lee’s Summit mom Tarah Brown and her family climb downed trees and big rocks, watch for birds, look for frogs, talk about photosynthesis and count acorns on their walks. “When you are hiking, you don’t have your phone out,” Brown says. “You are there to learn and spend time together.” In a time when many families are in front of screens instead of connecting with each other, getting the kids to appreciate the outdoors can be difficult. Yet with some effort, the whole family can enjoy the benefits of a good walk.
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Walks are excellent exercise that also can help reduce stress and generally put everyone in a better mood. Additionally, walking and hiking provide an excellent opportunity for kids to use their imagination while exploring their surroundings. Dani Johnston, a mom of three from Greenwood, says her family began hiking together when they were going through a difficult period of loss. It helped them bond as a family and cope with the situation. After several years of making hiking a regular habit, Johnston says it helps put her children in a calm mood and become more observant of the world. Additionally, she says her oldest child is learning the limits of what she is safely able to do. For Johnston, hiking is a time when she is simply with her family and not worried about hair, makeup, social media or the other distractions of life. How can you turn your child into a walker or hiker and enjoy the outdoors together?
Have your children use their imaginations. Are they marching through the neighborhood to find a hidden treasure? Or are your kids moving with ninja-like stealth through the forest to keep an eye out for potential foes? Possibilities are endless for entertainment on a walk. For a child who is especially difficult to get away from the screen, consider taking a video game walk and have him imagine he is in the middle of a game trying to make it to the next level.
Mix it up. Change the scenery often and have a variety of places you can go. Include neighborhood walks, strolls at city parks and hikes on trails in nature.
Bring friends. Everything is better with friends. Johnston says she has found many people are just waiting for someone to set up a time and place to go hiking together.
Make the outdoors a classroom. Brown says she uses hikes to teach her children about conservation and being good stewards of the environment. Additionally, she says she teaches her kids about the role plants and animals play in our lives. Allison Gibeson is a freelance writer from Lee’s Summit who is teaching her son to enjoy walking and hiking as much as she does.
what’s new at the zoo
f
rom the opening of Stingray Bay to the arrival of a new polar bear, you’ll find lots to check out at the Kansas City Zoo this May!
Stingray Bay At the all new Stingray Bay, visitors will have the chance to touch cownose and southern stingrays, along with whitespotted bamboo sharks in this shallow touch pool. This indoor/outdoor facility is ideal for year-round guests, but most importantly, the state-of-the-art exhibit features a water filtration system that provides a healthy habitat for the animals. Entrance to Stingray Bay is included with regular zoo admission.
Variety KC Exploration Play
CONFIDENT KIDS
Y SWIM LESSONS › Y MEMBERS RECEIVE 50% OFF LESSONS! Our lessons are about nurturing swimming skills and developing self-esteem in a positive environment. When it comes to swimming and water safety, no one is trusted more than the YMCA, America’s Swim Instructor.
Sign up at KansasCityYMCA.org/Swim
At the all-new Variety KC Exploration Play Area, every consideration has been made for absolute inclusiveness. Equipment includes a zip line that has companion harnesses so a parent or partner can accompany a child with special needs. An “elephant swing” is accessible for children with special needs, but accommodates multiple children to encourage engagement among all kids. Special solid surfacing allows children in power wheelchairs or using gait walkers to access all areas of the exhibit.
Bam Bam the Polar Bear Bam Bam arrived in Kansas City this spring from the Henry Doorly Zoo in Omaha. She joins Berlin, a 28-yearold female that has resided here since December 2012. At 18,000 square feet, Polar Bear Passage was built to accommodate up to three bears, so there is plenty of room for both of them to enjoy. Bam Bam has stayed behind the scenes for a bit to acclimate to her new home, but zoo-goers should be able to meet her this summer.
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kcparent.com may 2018
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R
bringing back family game night
emember the days when families looked each other in the eye, had real conversations with one another and gathered around the kitchen table playing board games? Sadly, that was then, and this is now. Today, most families sit in separate rooms and stare at screens— television, tablets, computers or phones. It’s as though they’re avoiding interacting with one another, the opposite of what families should be doing! Researchers today are finding that all of that lighthearted play years ago actually led to some serious child development benefits, because board games are rich in learning opportunities. If this isn’t enough to inspire you to drag Monopoly out of the closet, here are some more great reasons to start up a weekly or monthly family game night: Brings everyone together. In a culture where everyone is running from one activity to another, family game night offers the opportunity to set aside fun, quality family time on a regular basis. It allows families to bond and get to know each other better. Gets everyone off screens. Let’s face it, screens have taken over our lives, and too much of anything is never good for anyone. Family game night is a great way to get everyone to turn off all the devices together. What’s more, soon your kids will discover there’s even more fun beyond their screens! Great for motor skills. With a roll of the dice or shuffle of the cards, your little ones are developing hand-eye coordination
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and fine motor skills. This can lead later to success in playing instruments, writing, sports, etc. Can improve grades. Some games can boost specific skills useful in your kids’ academic careers. Research has shown even a small amount of practice playing academic games can lead to improvements in the classroom.
Can help your kids solve problems.
Playing strategy games with your kids is a great way to give them practice at solving problems and making decisions. In fact, researchers from the University of Florida have found that kids who practice strategizing and solving problems with their parents end up having better memory techniques and more success at solving all sorts of problems on their own. Teaches good sportsmanship. Yes, the winning-and-losing aspect of playing games can be both a pro and a con when it comes to game night. However, it’s a great life lesson kids will learn while young, and not necessarily one they’ll learn on the baseball or soccer field. Games teach flexibility. How? If a game the kids choose is too hard to play, or if the kids find it boring, they can stop and try a different game. Game nights are cheap. Going to the movies is expensive! And you can’t interact much in a movie theater. Games provide entertainment, conversation, laughs and fun. You can’t beat that!
To start your own family game night, set a regular day and time each week that will work with everyone’s schedules and write it on the calendar. When game night arrives, turn off the TV and all electronics. Engagement with family members and the game should be top priority. Also, be sure to take turns picking the games each week and make sure they’re games everyone can play. If it’s a long game, be sure to give everyone a short break to allow for brains to breathe a bit. Scientists claim that teens and adults are only able to focus on one subject for around 20 minutes. Avoid boring the younger kids with a board game that drags on forever. Allow them a mid-game timeout for refreshments and bathroom breaks. Get creative with your game nights! Switch things up every now and then by bringing a game or two with you to the pizza pub or turn game night into a family field trip to the bowling alley, mini golf or the arcade. No matter what games you choose to play on your scheduled family game nights, remember you’re making special memories that will last a lifetime. And most likely, your kids will grow up to carry on the tradition with their own families. Kansas City mom and author Gina Klein and her husband relish playing board games with their two daughters (ages 11 and 14) on a regular basis. They love that board games keep the family’s communication flowing and engage their minds in something other than media.
WORDFROMDAD
mom’s gifts
“m
om, what’s this?” I pointed to something on David’s tummy. He’d only been home for a couple days and I wanted to learn everything about my new baby brother. “It’s his umbilical cord. It’ll dry up and fall off in a few days. That’s where we get our belly button.” I watched everything she did with him, from feeding and burping to changing and cleaning his cloth diapers. Each moment fascinated me and held me spellbound during his infancy. “Mom, my shirt’s wrinkled.” By that time, David was older and she worked again. I was approaching my teen years and my appearance was important to me, however wrinkle-free fabrics were still years in the future. “Iron it.” Even if there had been only one child, a mother’s hours are limited. Mom had six of us, plus Dad and herself, competing for her time. “I don’t know how.” “It’s time you learned.” She took me to the room with the ironing board and walked me through the entire process. Soon, I was as proficient, if not as quick, as she was. Mom never stopped. When I needed to sew on a button, she taught me to thread a needle. When I needed a hot drink on a winter night, she showed me how to brew tea. Mom also taught me to cook. Breakfast, lunch and dinner, everything from steak to cake, I learned at her patient hand. When I left home, I took my knowledge with me. Burp and change a baby? No problem. Iron a shirt? How about 47 one afternoon in basic training? When Sandi and I celebrated her first birthday as a wedded couple, she came home to a steak dinner, a gift-wrapped present and a homemade lemon chiffon layer cake. Thanks, Mom. I’ll never stop loving you. William R. Bartlett lives in Belton with his family.
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w
hen my oldest two were in kindergarten and preschool, I began reading the Little House on the Prairie series to them. It was a delightful experience, and over the course of two years we took in everything we could about Laura Ingalls Wilder and her family’s adventures. Very quickly into the book series, some astute observations were made. The first was that trouble and calamity always seemed to strike as soon as Pa left the house for some time. And second, Ma could, quite literally, make anything out of near nothing. It was as if she had the annals of Pinterest’s craft section somehow all tucked away under her bonnet. If her masterful needlework and cooking skills weren’t enough, she could be found giving gentle encouragement to her daughters
mom wisdom
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or keeping the glass full amid difficult circumstances with one of her favorite sentiments: “All’s well that ends well.” Whether you had a fantastic mother or perhaps other key women in your life who filled the matriarchal gap, chances are you’ve inherited some of their quirks and funny sayings. I’ll never forget the first time I found myself in the grocery store checkout lane with a busy toddler who wanted to grab a piece of candy “conveniently” stocked at his level. Without a thought, out flew the advice I had been told a thousand times as a child myself: “Look with your eyes but not your fingers!” No sooner had the words left my lips than the elderly woman in line behind me chuckled, “What a wonderful way to say, ‘Don’t touch!’” I wanted to take credit for the expression but the reality was, it wasn’t an original
thought. I was turning into my mother. At the time, I thought the only things I had inherited from my mom were her musical preferences (we always agreed which radio station to play in the car) and small fingers that made playing octaves on the piano nearly impossible. But since that moment in the grocery store, I have found that much of what I said that characterized my children’s early years is simply regurgitated wisdom passed down to me a generation before. Wisdom comes with experience. When you first become a parent, you don’t have any parental wisdom to pull from. You have personal research and a mother’s intuition on your side. The rest is just made up as you go along. I think that may be why some of the best parenting advice out there doesn’t come from well-intentioned new mom forums or from one of the myriad parenting methodology books that abound these days.
If anything, it’s put on display through the humble work of moms around us who don’t seek to draw attention to themselves. They’re the ones that tirelessly love hard, sacrifice big and acknowledge they’re not the end-all be-all to parenting wisdom. The reality is there is no perfect mom— but, then again, nobody needs one! The impact of a life well lived—fully present— reaps dividends in future generations. So go be you, my friend! Be kind, be generous, be all in. You never know what advice your children may give to their own because you gave it first. Lauren Greenlee is a freelance writer and an Olathe boy mom of three. For her first grade “What I Want to Be When I Grow Up” project, she aspired to be Laura Ingalls Wilder. When she realized that role was taken, she dreamed of being a mom.
The ladies of KC Parent share wisdom they’ve learned from their moms: My mom always said, “If you have to do it anyway, you might as well do it cheerfully.” (She’s always been great at walking that out and has been cheerful in the midst of many hard circumstances). Maria Dean, wife of associate publisher Darrell Dean
My grandmother taught me many things: how to
bake, how to cook bacon “without getting popped,” how to sneakily change the channel from Western reruns when Grandpa dozed off without waking him, how to conquer my fear of swimming in the lake, how to serve, how to pray…I could go on. One of my earliest memories was memorizing her number and calling her to come and rock me after work. She was always there for me. And that is it…the greatest gift she gave was simply demonstrating unconditional, always and forever love. That is the gift and promise I want to pass on to my girls, always and forever love. Kristina Light, digital media manager
My mom, Pauline Hawke, was a kind, compassionate and caring individual. When I look back on my childhood, she not only imparted many words of wisdom, but she lived out these principles beautifully. The one guiding principle my mom exuded was showing kindness to those she knew and those she did not. From the clerk at the grocery store, to the elderly lady across the street, to the service worker who would arrive at our house, my mom took a vested interest in them even if
she would never see them again. My mom genuinely cared and encouraged us to do the same. Susan Gimotty, owner and publisher
My mom has taught me so many lessons, but one
important one is how to deal with tough times. My mom lost her mother due to a freak accident when I was just a few months old. A couple of years later, my brother was born with congenital heart failure and required many hospitalizations and surgeries throughout his life. And then a couple of years ago, she lost her husband very suddenly. Through it all, Mom remains one of the most positive and uplifting people I’ve ever met. She faces each challenge with grace and has tremendous faith that sustains her during the hard times. Margaret Sarver, editor
Faithful is just one word that comes to mind when I
think of my mom. My dad battled severe chronic health issues for 35 years, and Mom rose to every challenge as his faithful companion, counselor and caregiver. And while she cared for Dad, she faithfully parented my sister and me. Mom taught us, laughed with us, helped with homework, chaperoned sports trips, prepared for weddings and attended the birth of each of her 11 grandchildren, helping us navigate the new-baby fog each time. Through it all, she has modeled a tenacious faith whose first response to both crisis and joy is prayer. Susan Crainshaw, copy editor kcparent.com may 2018
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CRAFTCORNER
They are so easy to make, and kids will love adding their own personal touch by painting the tin cans.
W
tin can planters
ith Mother’s Day and the end of the school year coming up, families have plenty of reasons to give a potted plant as a gift. Why not make it extra special by creating some tin can planters? They are so easy to make, and kids will love adding their own personal touch by painting the tin cans. These little planters are sure to brighten up someone’s day this spring!
Materials Needed: • Tin cans • Acrylic paint • Plants Painter’s tape Drill • • Step One: Drill a small hole in the bottom of each can. This will allow the soil for your plant to drain.
Step Two: Using the painter’s tape, tape around the top or bottom of the can.
Step Three: Paint the exposed part of the outside of the can with bright colors.
Step Four: After the paint has dried, remove the tape. Plant your greenery and enjoy! 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.
This year show Mom that she’s loved with a gift from Family Tree Nursery. Fill your tin can planters from a wide variety of flowers and plants or choose prearranged containers, hanging baskets and more! FamilyTreeNursery.com
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lanning a party can be fun, but it can also be a lot of work. If you’re short on time, use one of these party hacks to cut your prep time in half!
Double up. Have the game or craft double up as a party favor. Kids can create slime, paint a photo or make a piece of jewelry as part of the party, and then take the created item home as a favor. And let each guest grab a balloon or other decoration to take home as well. Another reminder of a fun time that also helps you with cleanup! Order in. Often people think catering in the food is too expensive, but there are lots of reasonable options out there. By having someone else take care of the food, you’ll save hours that can be spent on getting your house party-ready. Game on. Instead of taking the time to plan out games, set out board games around the house and yard games outside. Include sidewalk chalk and bubbles, and your guests will enjoy mingling while playing a variety of games.
Single serve. While cakes are lovely, individual desserts are easier to serve and clean up. Cupcakes, cookies, fruit tarts, etc., are already portioned for a single serving. Having ice cream as well? Scoop the ice cream before the party and place in the freezer in cupcake liners. When it’s time to serve, pull out and plate. Voila! Head out. Don’t want the hassle of all that goes along with hosting a party in your home? Many restaurants have a side room you can use if ordering food. Or, reserve a shelter at a local park. Anything away from home saves on prep and cleanup time!
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breaking down the anxiety epidemic facing today’s kids
ike many active 10-year-olds, Ava* is involved in competitive cheerleading, enjoys playing the flute in her school’s band and loves spending time with her group of five close-knit friends. But daily life is a struggle for this fifth grader, who is haunted by debilitating worries about her personal safety, her health and being alone. “She’s always had issues with being alone in the house,” her mom says. “If I’m doing laundry, she’s in the laundry room with me. She still sleeps in our bed at night. I make her go to bed in her bed every night, and I sit in her room until she falls asleep. But, by about 1:00, she comes and gets in our bed.” Ever since Ava broke her arm last year during a cheer practice, her anxiety has worsened steadily. “She thinks she’s having heart attacks, and she’ll go to the school nurse saying she can’t breathe and her face is numb,” her mom says. “Before that, she’d never been to the school nurse in the six years she’s been in elementary school.” Ava isn’t alone. Mental health experts say that anxiety is now the number one
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most common mental health challenge among children. The National Institute of Mental Health estimates that 31 percent of adolescents, ages 13 to 18, suffer from an anxiety disorder of some kind, with girls at a slightly higher risk. Thanks to increased awareness and understanding of the disorder among health care practitioners, more children receive the treatment they need at an earlier age. “I’m seeing kids who in the past would have just white-knuckled their way through life until it got to the point where they couldn’t do it anymore,” says Dr. Jane Sosland, child and adolescent psychologist, University of Kansas Medical Center. “The stigma of mental health is slowly, slowly being chipped away, and that’s a good thing.”
Some symptoms of anxiety disorder include panic attacks, sleep problems, heart palpitations, chest pain, muscle tension, unexplained uneasiness, dizziness and cold, sweaty, numb or tingling hands or feet.“Usually, anxiety can start in the very young years, but then it can rear its ugly head in the teenage years,” Sosland says. “It’s something probably to do with hormones and puberty and a time in kids’ lives where they are starting to feel more self-conscious.” Left untreated, anxiety can cause kids to miss out on important social experiences and lead to poor performance in school, substance abuse, physical illnesses, depression, self-harm and suicide.
what is anxiety?
Anxiety can be a product of genetic wiring or a result of a specific stressful or traumatic event. The condition also can be triggered by a combination of factors, ranging from marital and economic distress in the family to overwhelming school pressures, social media and intense news stories.
From your heart slamming against your rib cage before standing up to speak in front of an audience to sweaty palms during a job interview, we’ve all experienced anxiety. Anxiety becomes a problem when it affects quality of life and interferes with the activities you normally enjoy.
causes of anxiety
is now “ Anxiety the number one most common mental health challenge among children.
”
Some experts also worry that helicopter-style parenting can exacerbate anxiety. So-called helicopter parents go to great lengths to protect their children from failure or struggles, resulting in emotionally-fragile young adults who lack the confidence to solve their own problems independently. Without a sense of resilience, trying to manage life’s inevitable ups and downs becomes exceptionally stressful. “Resilience is built by working through adversity and difficult situations. It is difficult to pick yourself up and brush yourself off if you never fall down,” says Dr. Zafar Mahmood, a child and adolescent psychiatrist, HCA Research Psychiatric Center, Kansas City, MO.
parenting anxious kids
Although you should maintain the same expectations for your anxious child as you would another child, it’s okay to adjust those expectations during stressful moments. Plan ahead for transitions to ease anxiety and praise small accomplishments, like when your child tries something new. “An anxious child is very difficult to parent sometimes. On the one hand, they’re usually very well-behaved, very much follow the rules, do well in school, but they also can be challenging for a parent because they really want a lot of reassurance,” Sosland says. “However, they can’t get it enough.” Suppose your child repeatedly asks you, “Do you think I did okay in the concert?” The more you reassure him with statements like, “Yes, you did great! Everybody thought you were awesome!” the more you unintentionally reinforce your child’s belief that maybe he isn’t okay.
Instead of trying to make a child feel better through reassurances, Sosland recommends acknowledging your child’s worries and then asking how he can best manage his thoughts. For example: Parent: “It sounds like you are pretty worried about your performance. What can you say to yourself to cope with your worry?” Child: “That was hard for me, but I did my best. I’m proud of myself for hitting that note I’ve been practicing all week. I’ll be okay.” By guiding your child to reframe how he thinks about a situation, you send the positive message that you believe he has the resolve to cope with his feelings, and he doesn’t need to rely on external evaluations to feel good about himself. Because parenting a child with anxiety can be stressful, surround yourself with a strong support network for when you need a break or a compassionate shoulder to lean on.
coping with anxiety
Help your child identify healthy coping mechanisms for when she is anxious. “Having someone who they feel like is actually listening to them is a huge piece of learning how to feel better,” Sosland says. (See sidebar for additional coping ideas.) As parents, we often think we need to help our kids solve their problems. Sosland has another suggestion called the 80/20 rule. “Eighty percent of the time kids just want their parent to listen. They don’t want you to fix the problem,” she says. “We are quick to come in and tell them what to do or tell them they shouldn’t feel the way they do. That doesn’t usually make them feel better. It just makes them feel like they’re not being heard.” The other 20 percent of the time kids do want your help. Usually, they will ask you directly for advice about how they can solve a problem.
rising social anxiety Our hyperconnected children can’t imagine life without technology. Studies are beginning to suggest that too much screen time could correlate to increasing rates of anxiety, depression and loneliness. In her book iGen, psychologist Jean Twenge studies trends among children born between 1995 and 2012. Through her research, she discovered disturbing patterns indicating that as smartphones became more commonplace among teens, depression and unhappiness also began to rise. “They are on the forefront of the worst mental health crisis in decades,” Twenge writes. Kids today spend about an hour less per day with their friends than teens did in decades past, preferring online interactions. But the more time they spend online, the less happy they feel. “Eighth graders who spend 10 or more hours a week on social media sites are 56 percent more likely to be unhappy than those who spend less time,” Twenge writes. “There’s not a single exception: All screen activities are linked to less happiness and all non-screen activities are linked to more happiness.”
Coping Ideas for Anxious Kids
Journal. █ Listen to music. █ Reframe negative thoughts with positive. █ Paint, draw or collage. █ Pet an animal. █ Blow bubbles. █ Ride a bike. █ Rest. █ Watch a funny video. █ Breathe deeply. █ Volunteer for a favorite cause. █
Continued on page 30 kcparent.com may 2018
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did you know?
A parent with anxiety is seven times more likely to have a child with anxiety. Source: Dr. Jane Sosland Why? Biologically, we are designed to spend time with friends face-to-face. When we socialize with friends, our brains release a host of neurochemicals and hormones that reward us with an overall sense of wellbeing, helping us to better manage stress and even buffer us from illness. The brain doesn’t respond in the same way to computer-mediated communication. Over-reliance on screen interactions can interfere with a teen’s ability to develop crucial social skills that help her pick up on emotional cues, manage conflict or build confidence in social situations. “Without developing interpersonal skills and discipline, kids may experience feelings of anxiety anytime they step out of the house and interact with others,” Mahmood says. Social media also can give kids the impression that everyone else’s world is hunky-dory and that they’re alone in their struggles. And with unhindered 24/7 social media access and multiple messaging platforms, there’s no break from the rest of the world for quiet reflection or relaxing time alone. “In days past, you could leave the bully on the bus. Now bullying follows kids into their bedrooms when it is time to go to sleep,” Mahmood says.
foster resilience to challenge anxiety We’d all prefer to avoid situations that make us uncomfortable. The trouble is if we don’t participate in activities because we’re scared of failing or because they make us nervous, we can’t grow more selfconfident and resilient. According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA), when we avoid stressful situations, we reinforce anxiety and end up feeling more demoralized.
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Knowing how far to push children can be tricky and depends on the intensity of their anxiety. “If you have an anxious child, what you don’t want to do is push them too far and too fast out of their comfort zone,” Sosland says. “On the flip side, you don’t want to be overly protective and never expose them to those things that make them anxious.”
Stress-Relief Ideas for Parents
█
Take a power nap.
Squeeze a stress ball. █ Listen to soothing music. █ Walk with a friend. █ Blow bubbles with your child. █ Listen to a calming meditation app with your child. █ Collage. █ Garden. █
Instead, she recommends taking baby steps to increase self-confidence. Also, tap into the activities your kiddo is already passionate about. Self-confidence in one area can increase self-confidence in other areas of a youngster’s life. “If your child is really anxious in school, but they love to go horseback riding, then let’s do that horseback riding because they feel really good about that. They can learn lessons from that which they can transfer over into school,” Sosland says. Seek experiences that gently push your child to try new things in a supportive, collaborative atmosphere. Acknowledge
and praise those moments when she accomplishes something despite the initial uneasiness and discomfort it caused, whether that’s pushing through a mile at cross country, going to her first sleepaway camp with a friend or trying out for a part in the school play. Day-to-day, look for opportunities where your child can advocate for herself. For example, instead of emailing your child’s teacher about a grade your child felt was unfair, encourage her to talk to the teacher about it. If he’s struggling in a particular subject, suggest he ask his teacher for extra help. If your child complains about a playground disagreement with a classmate, listen to the problem and, if requested, offer ideas for possible ways to manage the situation. “Let them face adversity,” Mahmood advises. “Everyone will face disappointment and adversity in their lifetime. Those who succeed are those who have developed the skills and discovered the resources to deal with it.” Anxiety is highly treatable. If your child continues to struggle, please consult your family physician. *Name changed. Freelance journalist Christa Melnyk Hines and her husband reside in Olathe with their two children, ages 10 and 12. Christa is the author of Happy, Healthy & Hyperconnected: Raise a Thoughtful Communicator in a Digital World. As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns.
Additional Resources WorryWiseKids.org Freeing Your Child from Anxiety by Tamar E. Chansky, Ph.D. Anxious Kids, Anxious Parents: 7 Ways to Stop the Worry Cycle and Raise Courageous and Independent Children by Reid Wilson, Ph.D.
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Special Advertising Section
Christian Youth Theater
CYT Kansas City offers many high-energy, week-long camps for ages 5-19 all across the KC metro. Day camp themes include “DisneyDreamWorks Musical Time Machine” and “Disney Big Screen to Broadway” for half-day (ages 5-7) and full-day (ages 7-12) campers. Non-musical Xtreme! Camps (ages 10-16) include “Star Wars,” “Knights of the Realm,” and “Heroes in a Half Shell.” High School Master Drama Camp features “Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap.” Overnight Camps include “Fame Jr.” (ages 12-14) and “Oklahoma” (ages 14-19), with full-length performances. 913.681.3318. See display ad on pg. 43. www.CYTKC.org
KC Parent’s
Camp Guide
Accelerated Schools
Accelerated Schools of Overland Park offers two summer programs from June 5 through July 27. High School students can earn credit for courses such as math, science, English, Spanish, social studies, computer and art. 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. 42. www.AcceleratedSchoolsOP.org
Camp Eagle Summit
Camp Eagle Summit is held on the SCA campus during the summer months. Camp Eagle Summit is designed for students who will enter 1st through 6th grade in the fall. Camp Eagle Summit, Jr. is for children ages 2 ½ by July 31 and potty-trained through entering Kindergarten in the fall. See display ad on pg. 39. www.Summit-Christian-Academy.org
Camp Invention
Invent the future today! Camp Invention’s all-new summer program, Fast Forward, allows children in grades K-6 to turn their wildest dreams into reality. Campers create a vehicle of the future, design a mechanical robot dog, build futuristic dream homes, and make dinos dance using wind-up gearboxes! Local educators lead the week of fun, hands-on, STEM activities that
encourage children to think big, explore their curiosity, and never give up. Visit www.CampInvention.org or call 800.968.4332 today! See display ad on pg. 36.
Camp Wood YMCA
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 5, 1-5 pm for a free Open House. See display ad on pg. 37.
Ceramic Café
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. 38.
Cosmosphere
Where else can you train like an astronaut, explore the inner workings of Earth, discover the secrets of the solar system, experience the thrill of flight, build and program robots, simulate microgravity through the wonder of SCUBA, observe survival techniques for journeys to alien worlds, experience real aspects of astronaut training and leave with a new appreciation of the integration of medicine and off-planet travel and MORE! Camp experiences are available for explorers 2nd grade through high school and beyond. See display ad on pg. 39. www.Cosmo.org
The Coterie Acts Theatre Classes and Camps
The Coterie offers classes for kids entering grades K-12 at five sites: The Plaza (Pembroke Hill), Overland Park (MillerMarley), Lee’s Summit (MCC Longview), Liberty (Liberty CC), and the Northland (MCC Maple Woods). Half-day and full-day classes led by professional, trained teaching artists include creative drama, acting, and audition skills. 2018 Performance Camps include Spamalot (at Pembroke), The Hobbit (at Liberty), and Seussical the Musical Jr. (at Longview). See display ad on pg. 2. Visit www.TheCoterie.org.
The Culture House
Spend your summer at The Culture House ... NOW IN TWO LOCATIONS (Olathe & Oak Park Mall)! Programs include dance, theatre, music and art all taught by professionally trained adults. “Sister Act” (ages 13-20), “Aladdin ” (ages 10-13), Continued on page 36
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COME ALIVE
and dream with your eyes wide open! THEATRE
DANCE
VISUAL ART
MUSIC
THE GREATEST SHOW EXTRAVAGANZA (ages 10-16) THE MUSIC OF MOANA (ages 4-6 or 6-9) NAUGHTY: SONGS OF MATILDA (ages 7-16) ISLE OF THE LOST: MUSICAL & COMBAT CAMP (ages 7-14) IMPROV THEATRE CAMP (ages 9-16) BROADWAY NOW!: MUSICAL THEATRE CAMP (ages 7-16) AIDA: 2-WEEK INTENSIVE (ages 13-20) ALADDIN JR: 2-WEEK INTENSIVE (ages 9-13) WINNIE THE POOH KIDS: 2-WEEK INTENSIVE (ages 6-11) WILLY WONKA JR: 2-WEEK INTENSIVE (ages 9-14)
SCULPTURE (ages 8-18) ROBLOX & ART (ages 9-18) SMALL BUT BIG ART (ages 5-8) PAINTING (ages 10-18) MODERN ART (ages 8-18) ADVANCED DRAWING (ages 12-18) DRAWING (ages 9-18) MINECRAFT INSPIRED ART (ages 7-18)
LA PETITE PRINCESS BALLERINA (ages 4-6) STORLING DANCE INTENSIVE (Ballet 3 & up) STYLE EXPLOSION HIP HOP (3 levels, ages 7-19) ITTY BITTY BALLERINA (ages 4-6) ME AND MY DOLLY BALLET (ages 4-6) DANCE CONDITIONING BOOTCAMP (ages 12-18) EVENING CLASSES: CREATIVE MOVEMENT, BALLET/TAP COMBO, PRE-BALLET, BOYS ATHLETIC DANCE, HIP HOP, BALLET, TAP, JAZZ
RUDIMENTAL BOOTCAMP (ages 12-14) MARIMBA FUNDAMENTALS (ages 12-15) INTRO TO MUSIC THEORY (ages 12+) PRACTICAL MUSIC THEORY & IMPROV (ages 12+) GIRL POWER MUSIC WORKSHOP (ages 8-18)
ENROLL NOW!
www.culturehouse.com 913-393-3141
est. 1996
TWO LOCATIONS!
Olathe & Oak Park Mall
we’re baaaack:
what kids bring home from camp
t
he band Chicago once sang some very wise lyrics: Everybody needs a little time away from each other. Nowhere are those words more accurate than when applied to parents, children and summer. The monotony of the endless summer hours can build laziness, tension and, worst of all, complacency. Fortunately, sleep away camp is a fantastic remedy for this very problem. Whether you are sending your kids away for a week or even four, camp is a guaranteed way for your child to build character, make friends and feel completely free to be his or her true self. When children attend a sleep away camp, they may be leaving home for a few days, but what comes back with them is where the real good stuff lies. So what can you expect when your kids get back?
Confidence When your children return home from camp, you may notice they do so with their heads held a little bit higher. Melissa
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Houston is one of the K-1 women’s directors for Kanakuk Kamp, a Christian camp that has been helping children gain confidence and character since 1926. She has seen this positive effect of camp first hand. “With no reservation,” Houston says, “kids get to be completely and totally who they are at camp. Where else would they feel comfortable to wear a crazy costume, fit right in and not have to worry about their dance moves being cool enough? Everyone is a hero at camp!” Not only does the judgement-free zone from kids bolster confidence in kids who are already socially skilled, but it can foster confidence in those who struggle with shyness. Houston explains, “We hear stories of kids going home and trying new, intimidating, big things like auditioning for a play, running for student council and trying out for a team or starting a Bible study at their school—all because summer camp helped them see who they really are!”
Conquered Fears For many children, the thought of leaving home for a few days is great in theory, but the reality is much more intimidating. Attending camp will help your child learn to deal with this inevitable anxiety and the challenges of trying new things in a safe and healthy environment. Unlike sending your child off to a friend’s house where television, screen time and potentially questionable behaviors might be learned, camp provides exercise, activities and constant skill building that undoubtedly will make your child stronger and braver than you ever thought possible.
Structure and Responsibility How many times have you heard that your child volunteered to do dishes at a friend’s house and thought, “What? My kid? NO way!” Believe it or not, the skills and responsibilities you are pushing at home do get through to your children, and camp can further reinforce those routines. “At camp we have ‘planned spontaneity,’ but we also have daily classes, set mealtimes, wakeup and bedtimes,” explains Houston. “And at Kanakuk, Kampers share the responsibilities to keep their cabin clean daily.” Parents of campers may decide the side effect of increased responsibility in a child just might be the greatest gift the camp can give.
Trying New Things Take a glance at the activities list at camp and you’ll see more opportunity for hustle and bustle than any summer at home ever could offer. Baseball, basketball, zip-lining, swimming, canoeing, parties—the list goes on. The great benefit here is a chance for your child to try something that might always have piqued his interest, without making a hard and fast commitment. “Our classes help build on skills that a camper may already have,” Houston says. “But if a camper hasn’t experienced a certain team sport and has interest, they have opportunity to try in a fun, safe and encouraging environment.” In the end, summer camp is a place where children can grow, learn and develop skills they will use for the rest of their lives. The best part is kids don’t even realize they’re learning these skills. To them, camp offers summer laughter and fun—and a needed break from life at home. Kim Antisdel is a freelance writer and interior design sales rep for KC. She lives in Liberty with her husband, stepdaughters and toddler son.
A CREATIVE ALTERNATIVE FOR SUMMER FUN! Ceramics • Canvas Clay Hand-Building Fused Glass
Space Limited!
AGES 6-12
JOIN US FOR MORE FUN!
5 OFF $30 PURCHASE
$
Offer expires 5/31/18. May be combined with 1/2 studio fee special only. May not be used for camp, classes or special events. KCP
Kids Night Out Family Fun Night • Girls Night Out Paint Me A Story • Birthday Parties Office Gatherings • Field Trips Parties To Go & MORE!
paintglazeandfire.net • 127th & Metcalf, OPKS • 913-661-CLAY kcparent.com may 2018
35
CAMPGUIDE “Winnie the Pooh” (ages 6-11), Rudimental (percussion) Bootcamp, Painting, Sculpture, Drawing, The Greatest Show: Movie Musicals, Songs from Matilda, Music of Moana, Isle of Lost Combat, Broadway Now, Improv, Princess Ballerina, Me & My Dolly Ballet, Hip Hop, Jazz, Ballet, Tap & MORE! 913.393.3141 See display ad on pg. 33. www.CultureHouse.com
CAMPINVENTION.ORG
Eagles Camp Soaring
TS
Ho
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B
O
ke
ND
S-O
FU
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a
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ades K–6
Ta
Gr
N STEM
Multiple locations throughout the Kansas City Metropolitan Area! In Partnership with the United States Patent and Trademark Office
SUMMER CAMP PUPPET FUN
PREK-K The Fairy-Tale-A-Vision Show June 25-29 – $95 Finger Fun! July 16-20 – $95 1ST – 3RD GRADE Where the Wild Things Are: Environmental Storytelling with Puppetry July 23-27 – $130 From Found to Fun: Turning Everyday Objects into Puppets July 9-13 – $130 4TH – 6TH GRADE The Kitchen Sink Show July 9-13 – $130 2ND – 6TH GRADE Puppet Creature Double Feature July 30-Aug 3 – $250 Mask and Movement July 16-20 – $130 7TH – 9TH GRADE YouTube and YOU! June 25-29 – $130
CALL ALEX AT 816-756-3500
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10TH – 12TH GRADE STEAMpunk Puppetry July 23-27 – $130
Who says summer learning can’t be fun? At Eagles Camp Soaring we understand how important it is for learning to continue through the summer and for kids to just be kids! Our program is designed to offer hands on learning with a focus on academics, enrichment activities and STEAM. For extra fun, there’s swimming, field trips, library visits, and ice cream treats! Students stay busy and happy while learning! See display ad on pg. 43. www.MCA-Eagles.org
Genesis Health Club – Olathe Ridgeview
Camps provide an influential, magical setting free from evaluation; unlike school where there are rubrics. In camps children have the liberty to explore new passions, activities, friendships, and new aspects of who they are. In the right camp setting, children learn crucial life skills: problem solving, perspective taking, initiative and grit! Have you selected the right camp for your child? Are you making the most out of your child’s summer? Check out Ridgeview Camps today! See display ad on pg. 35. www.GenesisHealthClubs.com
Johnson County Parks and Rec From Outdoor Discovery to Just for Fun, we offer nearly 60 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, engineering, leadership development, and art, music, theatre, and dance. The options include both indoor and outdoor programs, and full- and partial-day schedules are available. For details call 913.831.3359 or visit www.JCPRD.com. See display ad on pg. 34.
Continued on page 38
Be you. Be adventurous. Belong. CAMP WOOD YMCA
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. Join us Saturday, May 5th, 2018, 1-5 pm for a free Open House.
620-273-8641 CARING
HONESTY
RESPECT
www.campwood.org RESPONSIBILITY
I’M THIRD kcparent.com may 2018
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CAMPGUIDE 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 of guided sports and activity times, Bible study, worship and small-group time for children in kindergarten through 5th grade. To learn more about your local KampOut! visit: www.Kanakuk.com/kampout. See display ad on pg. 44.
Kansas City Young Audiences
Kansas City Young Audiences offers children full and half-day week-long performing and visual arts camps at their home on Main Street. Weekly classes and private instruction are also available. Summer Camps begin in June. Scholarships are available. 816.531.4022. See display ad on pg. 38. www.KCYA.org
Kansas City Zoo
Make your summer a little wilder with Zoofari Adventures Summer Camp. Camp
runs May 29 through August 10. Learn the inside scoop about the Zoo’s creatures. A typical week includes exclusive zoo tours, animal encounters/shows, science experiments, games, and crafts. Half day camps for ages 4-5, full day for ages 5-15. COST: ½ day: $110, full day: $250, Before/ Aftercare (3:30pm-5:30pm): $15. 10% discount for FOTZ Members.  Check out single day camp options the week of Memorial Day and 4th of July. See display ad on pg. 44. www.KansasCityZoo.org/ programs/day-camps
Lenexa Baptist VBS
Welcome to Game On VBS at Lenexa Baptist Church, June 4-8. Grab your pompoms, lace up your cleats, and tune your horn. It’s time to gear up for the big game as we spend a week digging deep into God’s Word to help prepare us for life’s big game. We’ll have tons of fun as we sing, make crafts, play games and learn about missions. Register at www.LenexaBaptist.com. See display ad on pg. 59.
Lyric Opera
Music Theatre. Opera. What do they have in common? What makes them different? We’ll find out as we study West Side Story at Opera Camp 2018! Grades 3-7 (11:00 – 3:30 daily) will be featured in The Coyotes and the Rabbits, a bilingual opera. Grades 8-12 (11:00 – 4:30 daily) prepare an art song and an opera scene, with opportunity for a private coaching. Other opportunities include singing/acting/musicianship sessions, master classes, creation of sets/ props/costumes, and group voice lessons. See display ad on pg. 42. www.KCOpera.org
Mesner Puppet Studio
We have extended our reach to enrich the lives of children of all ages and strengthen our community under the guidance of Education Director Alex Espy. We are committed to providing strong, vibrant educational opportunities to nurture creativity, build confidence and encourage self-expression. Our summer camps are going to be great and we hope you can join Continued on page 40
create a memory give a gift made with love
Join OUr Cast!
2 Musical Productions 38
kcparent.com may 2018
birthday parties • field trips summer camps • and more! 9510 Nall 913-383-0222
CeramicCafeKC.com
Now enroing!
The Summer at Pembroke Hill program is open to all students ages 2-18.
Enro online today at w.pembrokehi.org
SUMMER PLANS?
JOIN SUMMIT CHRISTIAN ACADEMY’S
CAMP EAGLE SUMMIT
Call 816.525.1480 or Visit Summit-Christian-Academy.org
kcparent.com may 2018
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READY FOR SOME FUN?
CAMPGUIDE us for a week of puppet magic! Contact Alex at 816.756.3500 or alex@mesnerpuppets.org. See display ad on pg. 36.
Nerman Museum
UCM-Lee’s Summit offers a variety of summer programs for everyone in K-12 with more than 10 options to choose from! Register today at ucmo.edu/summit
Summer Camps for Future Engineers Grades K-8 For questions, contact Erin Morse at: 816-945-9917 or erin@play-well.org
Sign up at:
www.play-well.org
Cam
p
$99Fee
Ages 5-12 Camper Receives: • Soccer Ball • Camp T-Shirt
June 18-22 Born in Croatia, Goran played professionally 19 years in Europe and US. He coached pro 4 Blue Springs, MO, years: 7 time All Star: member of the US Indoor (8am -11am) National Team: represented the US in the June 25-29 1996 Indoor World Cup in Spain; scored over Lenexa, KS, 500 professional goals. Goran played locally (8am -11am) for KC Sporting (Wizards), KC Comets, and in July 9-13 18 different countries. Our camp have Bible Lee’s Summit, MO, Halftime with Bible Story. (8am - 11am) July 16-20 Overland Park, KS (8am - 11am)
Register online:
www.victoryinsoccer.org For more information: 913-284-7601 kcparent.com may 2018
Notre Dame de Sion
Join us and get ready to be extraordinary! At Sion Summer Spectacular students can participate in engaging, innovative, and ageappropriate enrichment camps for PreK-8 boys and girls in the arts, STEM, crafts, tactics, 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, 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. 41.
Paint, Glaze & Fire Ceramics & Coffee House
Camp Director GORAN HUNJAK 19 years Pro and US National Team
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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 5-August 1, with individual sessions from 10AM-noon or 2PM-4PM. Register at www.NermanMuseum.org or call 913.469.2323. See display ad on pg. 42.
Camp ARTRAGEOUS! Paint Glaze & Fire Ceramics & Coffee House is offering summer camp for its 21st season! Your child will learn new techniques and have fun creating art in our multi-medium camps (ceramics, clay, canvas & glass fusion). Class size is limited - sign up early! Check it out online and find more information as well as a registration form at www.PaintGlazeAndFire.net. For more information on these and many other fun and creative programs, visit the website. See display ad on pg. 35. 913.661.CLAY (2529).
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Get creative at the If your child is facing Nerman Museum! challenges in school,
“excelling” may seem out Classes (ages 5-11) combine engaging, of reach. We specialize interactive tours with unique studio projects. If your child is facing challenges in school, in working with students “excelling” may seem out of reach. whostudents don’t always “fit into We specialize in working with the who don’t always “fit into thebox.” box.” Summer programs held concerned parents For more thanwill 30 be years, from June 5 until July 27, 2018. have turned to the Accelerated Schools for High School students in grades individualized learning 9-12 can complete up to programs that help students of all academic levels with unique 1 full credit in subjects including math, science,needs social overcome studies, challenges and educational English,academically. Spanish, computer excel and art. All courses are accredited by the State of • and FullAdvancED. Day SchoolMiddle - Grades - 12 Kansas school4students, AftercanSchool - Grades 1-12 grades•4-8, attend Tutoring the Academics and Arts Camp. They • canAccredited spend 2.5 hours in individualized tutoring • Low Student-Teacher ratio and then participate 1.5 hours of creative Tuesdays-Fridays, June 5-August 1 • Daily Reportin Cards • Available expression. All programs are from 9 am untilTransportation 1 pm, 10 a.m. - noon or 2-4 p.m. • Effective Reward System tutoring • Freeis Academic Testing Monday through Friday. Individualized Pre-registration is required. also available. 913-469-2323 • www.nermanmuseum.org
The Accelerated Schools of Overland Park 10713 BarkleyofSt., OverlandPark Park, KS The Accelerated Schools Overland
or visit our website: 913-341-6666 10713Call Barkley St., Overland Park, KS Call or visit our website: 913-341-6666 www.AcceleratedSchoolsOP.org www.AcceleratedSchoolsOP.org
Imagine the fun of OPERA CAMP!
Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art Johnson County Community College
In-depth vocal and acting instruction | July 23 - Aug 3
CAMPGUIDE Play-Well
LEGO®-Inspired engineering summer camps that explore STEM concepts through hands on learning with LEGO® materials. Dream it, build it, wreck it, repeat! Our programs are designed by engineers and refined by teachers but kids just think they’re fun. Choose from various themes like robotics, minecraft, star wars, ninjago and more! We also offer Girl-Powered camps that inspire the next generation of Women in STEM. Grades K - 8. What will your child build this summer? See display ad on pg. 40. www.Play-Well.org
Science City
Science City Summer Camp 2018 provides a fun, hands-on environment to explore exciting STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and math) topics. Campers ages 6-12 engage in life science, physical science, art and innovation each week. Camp runs June 4-Aug 3, Monday through Friday, 9:00-4:00. FREE early and late care available. $200/week for Union Station members, $225/ non-members. Space is limited! For more information, visit www.ScienceCity.Com/ SummerCamp. See display ad on pg. 67.
SkyZone
Have an epic summer at SkyCamp! Kids can have fun with activities like Free Style Jump, Dodgeball, and SkySlam. Ninja Warrior & Rock Climbing now at Sky Zone Lee’s Summit! SkyCamp combines fun and fitness for pure happiness! Different themes each week! Your kids will never be bored! Including Super Community Heroes, Science of Sky Zone & more. It’s easy and hassle-free for parents: Drop ‘em off and we’ll make sure they have the best experience ever. See display ad on pg. 41. www.SkyZone.com
Summer at Pembroke Hill
Register now online at kcopera.org or e-mail Linda Ade Brand: labrand@kcopera.org. Deadline to apply for a scholarship is June 30.
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If you are looking for a camp that fosters creativity, inspires curiosity and creates a fun learning environment for every student, then let the Summer at Pembroke Hill program be your tour guide. 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. 38.
CHRISTIAN YOUTH THEATER OF KANSAS CITY
s p m a C Summer
Dates & Registration: www.cytkc.org/camps 913.681.3318 CYT Kansas City is a 501(c)3 non-profit educational organization
Summer Adventure Camp Session 1 Oh The Places To Go
May 29TH - June 29TH
Session 2 Oh The Things To Do
July 5TH - August 3RD
REGISTER TODAY! www.mca-eagles.org Questions? Contact Chenaye Sutton email: suttonc@ma-kc.org or phone: 913.631.9286
Visit www.mca-eagles.org for a complete list of camp activities! kcparent.com may 2018
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& Safari Day Campsthe Zoo! Summer Camps at For kids ages 4–15
Join us for Zoo-mazing fun and animal adventures on your days off from school and during the summer too!
CAMPGUIDE University of Central Missouri
UCM’s primary focus is to offer engaged programming for all ages in full- and halfday sessions. Our camps are offered at the Missouri Innovation Campus in Lee’s Summit. From Lego’s to Stories for Justice our programming introduces students to the fields of criminal justice, science, math, public relations, technology, and teaching to broaden the students interest and expose them to future career opportunities. If you have questions, contact Vicki Orcutt at 660.543.8926/orcutt@ucmo.edu. For details: www.UCMO.edu/summit. See display ad on pg. 40.
Victory Soccer
Visit kansascityzoo.org/camp for more details! OPEN DAILY | kansascityzoo.org | 816.595.1234
The Kansas City Zoo, a private, non-profit organization is operated in agreement with the Kansas City, MO Board of Parks and Recreation Commissioners, partially funded by the Zoological District in Jackson and Clay Counties in MO, and is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.
Beyond the Goal. 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. Camp is for various levels of athletic ability including beginner. Our camp has a Bible half-time everyday with Bible story. See display ad on pg. 40. 913.284.7601 www.VictoryInSoccer.org
YMCA
Kids can have the best summer ever at Y Summer Day Camps! The focus is on achievement, relationships and belonging. A wide variety of experiences include fields trips, swimming, arts, STEM, outdoor education and more. Locations throughout the metro. Opportunities for ages 5-12 include traditional camps with exciting weekly themes, and sports specialty camps. Youth Volunteer Corps Summer of Service is available for ages 11-18. Learn more and register at www.KansasCityYMCA.org/ camp. See display ad on pg. 15.
Visit the online camp guide at KCParent.com for photos, videos and more!
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NYCU
NEWS YOU CAN USE May 2018
What does the latest research say about co-sleeping, nutrition education for preschoolers and sibling relationships? Here’s what we found:
MOMS WHO CO-SLEEP FEEL MORE DEPRESSED
HEALTHY EATING HABITS FOR PRESCHOOLERS
According to a new study out of Penn State, moms who choose to cosleep (sharing a room or a bed with their children) beyond the age of 6 months tend to feel more depressed, worried about their babies’ sleep habits and criticized for their choices. The study followed 103 mothers through the first year of their babies’ lives, and a pattern emerged. Most mothers started out co-sleeping, but gradually babies were moved out of their parents’ rooms. After six months, only 25 percent of mothers continued to co-sleep. Although co-sleeping is commonly practiced around the world, it is less prevalent in the United States. Current parenting trends and concerns about sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) contribute to U.S. parents’ tendency to regard long-term co-sleeping as a no-no. Douglas Teti, department head and professor of human development and family studies at Penn State, says the study isn’t about whether co-sleeping is good or bad, but about the importance of finding a sleep arrangement that works well for both parents and doesn’t leave one’s partner feeling neglected.
Because one in four preschoolers is overweight, and because nutrition is a key factor in a child’s development, researchers are looking at ways to educate young children about nutrition and encourage them to make healthier choices. In a new study published in the Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior, researchers looked at a preschool age child’s ability to categorize food as healthy or unhealthy. The study found that if the child could label a food as healthy or unhealthy, he tended to say he would choose the healthy option for a snack. Lead author Jody S. Nicholson, PhD, Department of Psychology, University of North Florida, says, “At this age [preschoolers] are not able to explain why they know something is healthy or how the body processes food, but they can identify that fruit, vegetables and milk are good for them.” Children in the study were shown pictures of two high contrast foods (e.g., a banana and a candy bar) and asked to point to the healthy choice. They also were shown low contrast pictures (e.g., chips and crackers), making it more difficult to label which was the healthy choice.
SIBLING INFLUENCE ON EMPATHY
Sibling relationships are often complicated, and parents who must try to manage kids’ fights and rivalries can sometimes feel like they are running a zoo. However, some encouraging news has emerged about the positive influences siblings can have on each other. The recent study, a collaborative effort between the University of Calgary, Universite Laval, Tel Aviv University and the University of Toronto, looked at 452 sibling pairs from diverse backgrounds. They wanted to examine how siblings affect one another’s ability to experience empathy, the ability to understand and share the feelings of another. “Although it’s assumed that older siblings and parents are the primary socializing influences on younger siblings’ development (but not vice versa), we found that both younger and older siblings positively contributed to each other’s empathy over time,” explains Marc Jambon, postdoctoral fellow at the University of Toronto. This study is important because it begins to illuminate how all family members, not just parents and older children, contribute to the development of younger siblings. Age and gender had no significant impact on the study except when it came to little brothers and older sisters. Little brothers appear to have no significant impact on older sisters when it comes to empathy.
Erin McIntosh is a mom of four children, 15, 12, 10, and 6. She works at the Kansas City Art Institute and is also a freelance writer and photographer. She is currently working on her first book, a memoir about single parenting. As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns. kcparent.com may 2018
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dinner
i
delivered to my doorstep
f most moms were honest—including this one—dinnertime is a challenge! In an ideal world, fresh and healthy meals should adorn my dinner table, but too often I resort to the same “Taco Tuesday” or just toss meat on the grill.
You’ve probably noticed in the past year that the Internet is overrun with an influx of advertisements for home meal delivery services that offer fresh, preportioned food with step-by-step recipes delivered right to a customer’s doorstep. In an attempt to get out of my cooking rut, I decided to try different meal kit delivery services to see whether this service might revitalize the dinner hour at my house. I contacted several companies, many of which said they do not have service in Kansas City yet. I narrowed my selections to six: Home Chef, Sun Basket, HelloFresh, Green Chef, PeachDish and Gobble, the newest one in Kansas City. Similarities among the six companies are many: █ Ingredients are labeled, pre-portioned
and extremely fresh (just as fresh or fresher than getting them from the grocery store).
█ Recipes cards are inviting, unique (like
Shrimp Tacos Diablo) and rather easy to follow with step-by-step pictorial instructions.
█ The packaging of EVERY company
is impressive and nearly 100 percent recyclable—it was like Christmas to see what we were going to eat each week.
█ All packages arrived on my front door
step with cold gel packs that kept the food cold for many hours, even on a hot day.
█ Proteins are always packed separately. █ Meals come with really tasty sauces
already prepared.
█ The meal plans work like a subscription:
How many meals do you want per week per person?
█ The websites are easy to follow and make
meal planning enjoyable.
█ The box contains a full meal, not just the
main dish, so you don’t have to scramble for sides. █ Most meals take about 30-60 minutes
from start to finish, including prep. █ Depending on the type of shopper you
are, the meal delivery service will not necessarily save you money. O █ n average, adult portions are $10$13 per person per serving. The boxes are more about the experience and convenience of putting a fresh, unique meal on the table than about a cheap, easy meal. █ Th e meal delivery space is becoming
crowded, and all services offer deals on subscriptions. █ Cooking became fun again!
SHOP LOCAL! Although the meal kits were fun, I have to say that local meal-prep places like Dream Dinners in Overland Park are easier and cheaper. In just about two hours, I can make nearly a whole month’s of meals for my family at Dream Dinners. They not only have the ingredients perfectly prepped—no washing, chopping or peeling—but they also take care of the mess. Then I get to go home and stock my freezer with a ton of meals for the month averaging around $6.00 per person per serving. It is certainly more convenient to take out a prepared freezer meal and cook it, allowing me more time with my family!
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I also discovered unique things about each of the companies I sampled. █ Home Chef had some of the easiest
meals to make for more of a novice cook. Home Chef also offered a variety of meal plans catering to two, four or six people with straightforward pricing. The service allows you to add extras like fruit smoothies or a salad. We tried their Thai Crunch Chicken Salad, and it was delicious plus required only a bit of assembling. █ Sun Basket had each meal in a labeled
brown bag inside the box. This was really convenient because I could just grab the bag from the fridge, open it and start cooking. Other companies had all of the ingredients, although nicely labeled, in the same box for the two to three meals ordered, which required a bit of sorting. Sun Basket also uses only organic, nonGMO ingredients, plus their packaging is 100 percent compostable. █ HelloFresh also had each of its meals in
a labeled brown bag for easy storage and assembly. HelloFresh offers vegetarian plans, and most of the items like broccoli and cauliflower come precut. They have three different plans from which to choose: Classic, Veggie or Family. Each is geared toward two people or four people, your choice. Have a bigger family? Then you just order accordingly. You can pause your delivery at any time. █ All the meal delivery services had
healthy recipes, but if you are a vegetarian or vegan, GreenChef seems the best choice. For example, one night we had sweet potato falafel with a kale salad with feta, walnuts and dates. My older daughter and I loved the meal, but it was lacking the beef for my teenage son. Oh, and if you try GreenChef, be sure to select kale and chard gratin—it was my favorite dish of the entire month of meal reviews!
█ PeachDish has a user-friendly website
with prices, preparation time and basic ingredients right on the home page. I also liked how at the top of the page are four weeks of meals so you can plan ahead. With the recipes, PeachDish also provided a weekly list of farmers around the nation who supplied the week’s fresh ingredients. We tried the beef and broccoli stir-fry…wow, an impressive and delicious one-pan meal!
Order your own meals online.
█ The newest meal delivery service to Kansas
City is Gobble, which specializes in faster gourmet meals with easy three-step recipes. The meals are designed to be onepan meals for easy prep and easy cleanup. My girls thought the mushroom ravioli was the best dish of the month. Plus, I was waiting for one of the companies to stand out in a unique way, and Gobble did it— adding fresh cookie dough to the box!
Dinner kit arrives on your doorstep.
Choose a meal delivery service if █ You are trying to eat healthier. █ You like to cook but hate to meal plan
or grocery shop.
Box comes complete with fresh ingredients.
█ You want to learn new recipes and
become a better cook. █ Time is as important to you as money. █ You want to eat more at home. █ You have a busy week coming up. Because
you can pause most subscriptions, you can cater the meals to your schedule. If you want to eat well and at your own dinner table, meal subscription companies might be a good option for you. Don’t plan on saving money but certainly plan to save time by having the grocery shopping done for you. I feel like a refreshed cook, and my family certainly has enjoyed my getting out of the same-old, same-old meal rut. I don’t think you can go wrong with any of the six companies I tried. Having dinner delivered to your doorstep is just a few clicks away. Susan Gimotty is a busy mom of four teenagers in Overland Park.
The step-by-step recipe cards are your roadmap.
Follow the recipe and bon appetit!
kcparent.com may 2018
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your end-ofthe-year
it’s
the end of the school year! With last-minute school projects, programs, graduations and final exams, parents have a lot to do. As you wrap up the academic year, use this checklist to finish off the school year on a positive note, make memories and prepare for a summer of fun!
✓
teacher appreciation
Teachers pour their hearts and souls into our kids, and the end of the school year is the perfect time to show your appreciation. Although it may be tempting to buy another mug or knickknack, many teachers already have vast collections of these popular items. Try one of these ideas for a thoughtful gift your teacher will enjoy:
▶ A poem, letter or drawing from your child. er favorite thing. One of our good friends is a retired ▶ Hschool teacher and she collects frogs. Over the years,
her students gifted her with many adorable frog collectibles, and now they decorate her kitchen and backyard garden. She enjoys the memories of her students they inspire. Find out what your child’s teacher collects and enjoys most and add to her collection.
gift card to his favorite place. Get to know your ▶ Achild’s teacher or have your child conduct a bit of an interview.
summer relaxation kit with a cute new tote bag, flip ▶ Aflops, sunglasses and a fun new book to read. Homemade goodies. Bake muffins or cookies and show ▶ your love.
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✓
✓list
end-of-year interviews
It’s amazing just how much our kids grow and change throughout the year. Use the end of the school year as an opportunity to interview your child and record his memories and dreams. It will be fun to look back on these over the years. Remember when Joe dreamed of becoming a firefighter, and now his dream job is to become a biochemist? Here are a few questions to get started:
ho was your teacher this year and what did you enjoy ▶ Wmost about her class? ho is your best friend this year and what do you enjoy ▶ Wdoing together? ▶ What do you want to be when you grow up and why? ▶ W hat is your favorite book that you read this year and why? ▶ What is your favorite subject? id your class take a field trip? What were your favorite ▶ Dmemories from the experience? f you could change one thing at your school, what ▶ Iwould it be? ▶ What are you looking forward to most this summer?
✓
last day of school family fun night
Celebrate the end of the school year with a fun family night. You could order pizza and plan a fun night at home with your favorite board games and movies or take the family out for a night on the town. These are a few of our favorite places to play; you will find even more on KCParent.com:
aint your own pottery and enjoy a family night at ▶ PPaint, Glaze & Fire or Ceramic Café. Both shops offer specials and events all month long, including special story hours and pizza nights.
ead to Main Event in Olathe or Independence, ▶ Hwhere you can enjoy bowling, arcades, an obstacle course, laser tag and more. These family fun centers also offer dining for a complete night of family fun.
ake the kids to a game and watch the Kansas City ▶ TT-Bones, Sporting KC or the Royals in action. Watch team promotions schedules for fireworks nights, skydiving, buck night and more to add to the fun.
✓
become a member
Summer is the perfect time to purchase a family membership to local attractions. Members enjoy free admission, exclusive members-only events, members-only newsletters and often receive discounts at gift shops and concessions, along with other great perks. Many of these memberships are also reciprocal with attractions in other cities, so you can enjoy free or discounted admission when you travel. These are a few of our favorite places for memberships locally and our favorite membership perks.
Passes. Summer is pool season, and memberships ▶ Pareoolworth the savings. Join your local parks and rec’s pool and enjoy fun in the sun all season long.
ansas City Zoo (6800 Zoo Dr., Kansas City, MO, ▶ K816.595.1234, KansasCityZoo.org/membership). Favorite Perk: The zoo offers various levels of memberships so you can select the perks you will use most (e.g., unlimited rides on the train, carousel and Sky Safari).
orlds of Fun/Oceans of Fun (8000 NE Parvin Rd., Kansas ▶ WCity, MO, WorldsOfFun.com). Favorite Perk: Passholders receive up to 10 percent off food or merchandise and may purchase discounted admission tickets for friends.
ohnson County Museum (8788 Metcalf Ave., Overland ▶ JPark, KS, JoCoGov.org/dept/museum/home). Favorite Perk: Enjoy discounts on museum programs and events and a 10 percent discount at the gift store.
nion Station’s Science City (30 W. Pershing Rd., Kansas City, ▶ UMO, 816.460.2020, UnionStation.org/membership). Favorite
✓
Perk: Free or discounted admission to nearly 300 museums.
make a summer bucket list
Let your kids help plan a summer of memories. Have each child submit five to 10 things that top his hometown fun wish list this summer and make it a goal to check off as many as you can. To help you brainstorm, search “100 Things to Do This Summer” and “50 Under $5” on KCParent.com. Kristina Light is certain that May rivals December for all its busyness, but her family does its best to enjoy moments together—including an annual mother-daughter trip to Pella, IA, for Tulip Time where they like to stop and smell the tulips.
TRY DREAM DINNERS! Easy. Affordable. Local.
IS MAKING DINNER A DRAG?
INTRODUCTORY OFFER! 6 MEALS FOR $84.95 WANT TO LEARN MORE?
www.dreamdinners.com OverlandParkKS@dreamdinners.com 913.491.6733 kcparent.com may 2018
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may
THE KCPARENT.COM CALENDAR FEATURES OVER 1,000 EVENTS EACH MONTH!
CALENDAR
Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 400
No part of this calendar may be reproduced in print or web format.
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excercise
see
watch
listen
celebrate
Get fit and have fun at the Tower 2 Tower 5K on May 5 at WaterOne in Lenexa. A familyfriendly race that supports Water for People. Tower2Tower5k.org
Culture House presents Snoopy: The Musical May 10-13 & May 16-18 at the TCH Stage in Oak Park Mall. Based on beloved characters, this show sparkles! CultureHouse.com
On May 12 the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 400 comes to Kansas Speedway. See the best in racing compete at a night race. KansasSpeedway.com
The Outdoor Concert Series at Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park on May 20 features Vigil Annie, a country western band playing today’s hottest chart toppers. Lenexa.com/concerts
May 27 head to the Union Station lawn for Celebration at the Station. Attend the largest FREE Memorial Day weekend event in the Midwest. 816.460.2083
1 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 Jack and the Bean ¡Mágico! 10:00 & Noon, the Coterie. The classic fairy tale Jack and the Beanstalk is told with the audience’s help. TheCoterie.org Preschool Story Time 10:00, KCPL (Westport). Enjoy songs, dancing, silliness, crafts and, of course, books! Great for little readers ages 2 and up. 816.701.3488 Creative Story Time 10:30, Ceramic Café. Hear a story, create a pottery piece and enjoy a simple snack. $12. CeramicCafe.com
2 Wednesday Farmers Market 7:00, Downtown Lee’s Summit. Shop for a variety of fresh produce, plants, meat, baked goods, crafts and more. DowntownLS.org Playgroup at FBC 9:00, First Baptist Church of Shawnee. A safe place for kids to run and play and for parents to enjoy coffee and conversation. Free. 913.226.9438
Animal Tales 10:30, Ernie Miller Nature Center. A 30-minute program that includes stories, songs and a visit from an animal friend. Today’s theme: fairies in the forest. $2. 913.764.7759
Teen Art Collective 4:00, Nelson-Atkins. Drop in and create! Guest artists and educators will help with projects. Supplies and a snack provided. Free. Nelson-Atkins.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
4 Friday
The Barber of Seville 7:30, Kauffman Center. Date night! The Lyric Opera presents this vibrant production. You have never seen Barber like this! KCOpera.org
Preschool Open Studio 10:00, Jo Co Heritage Center. Get creative! Explore new and exciting materials. Adults stay with children. $8. 913.826.2787
3 Thursday
Tree Tour and Scavenger Hunt 1:00, Vaile Mansion. Enjoy a tree tour and scavenger tree hunt. Donations accepted for the arboretum. 816.325.7430
The Art of the Brick Thru May 28, Union Station. A captivating exhibition featuring works of art made exclusively from Lego bricks. UnionStation.org
Campus Visit Day 1:30, Summit Christian Academy. Visit the school to see all we have to offer your children. RSVP to 816.525.1480.
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 Funville 10:00, Crown Center. What do you want to be? Children experience grown-up occupations in a kid-friendly setting. Free. CrownCenter.com
First Fridays 5:00, Crossroads Arts District. Galleries and shops remain open the first Friday of each month. KCCrossroads.org Plein Air Fest Thru May 12, Penn Valley Park. Artists from across the nation gather for a paintoff to capture the beauty of Penn Valley Park. PleinAirKC.com
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Jack and the Bean ¡Mágico! Thru May 20, the Coterie. The classic fairy tale Jack and the Beanstalk is told with the audience’s help. TheCoterie.org
May the Fourth Be with You 6:00, National Museum of Toys and Miniatures. An epic outer space adventure night for grown-ups only. 816.235.8000
Brookside Art Annual Thru Sunday, 63rd & Brookside. Enjoy a festive atmosphere, hospitality, convenience and, of course, art. BrooksideKC.org
Fisherman and the Goldfish 6:30, Plaza Library. Johnson County Community College children’s play performance based on a Russian story. Free. JCCC.edu
5 Saturday
Family Bingo Night 6:30, Roeland Park Community Center. Fun for the entire family! Bingo with twists and tricks. Dinner included. Pre-reg at JCPRD.com. Lansing DAZE/Brew, Blues & Bar-B-Q Today & tomorrow, Kenneth W Bernard Park. Rides, music, barbecue, inflatables, fireworks and more! Lansing.ks.us Harry’s Hay Days Thru Saturday, Main Street (Grandview). Carnival rides, concerts, food, local vendors, parade and more! GrandviewHarrysHayDays.com
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Tower 2 Tower 5K 8:00, WaterOne (Lenexa). Celebrate National Drinking Water Week with a family-fun race that supports Water for People. Tower2Tower5k.org Buck Day Truman Birthday Celebration Various museums (Independence). In honor of President Truman’s birthday, admission will be just $1. VisitIndependence.com Spring Nature Walks 9:00, Fort Osage. Learn about the flora and fauna surrounding Fort Osage and enjoy a guided hike. 816.650.3278 Civil War Field Day 9:00, John Wornall House Museum. A unique experience to meet and interact with Civil War soldiers, surgeons and civilians. 816.444.1858
Photos by J. Robert Schraeder and courtesy of the Coterie Theatre
Windmill Planter Workshop 9:00, Home Depot. Kids build a model windmill that holds a beautiful seasonal flower. 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
ZAXBY’S DAYS ®
PLANNING YOUR WEEK JUST GOT
easier!
Monday Zax Kidz Night
Wednesday Family Night
99¢ Zax Kidz Meals with adult meal purchase from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Four $5.99 Meals for $22.99 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
®
Limit two Zax Kidz Meals per adult meal purchase.
Thursday Nibbler Day
Tuesday Spirit Night
99¢ Nibblerz™ all day.
On scheduled fundraiser nights, 10% of all proceeds will support a local organization!
Sunday Bulletin Day
Inquire inside for more details.
Bring your bulletin in for 10% off your entire order.
AT THE FOLLOWING LOCATIONS ONLY:
12195 S. Strang Line Rd. • Olathe • (913) 747-4277 9500 W. 135th St. • Overland Park • (913) 538-4131
Limited time only. Offers not valid at any other locations. © 2017 Zaxby’s Franchising LLC “Zaxby’s,” “Zax Kidz” and “Nibblerz” are trademarks of Zaxby’s Franchising LLC. Each Zaxby’s restaurant is independently owned and operated under a license agreement with Zaxby’s Franchising LLC.
May the Fourth Be with You 9:30, Paradise Park. Dress up as a favorite Star Wars character. You may see a storm trooper or even Darth Vader. Paradise-Park.com Make It for Mother’s Day 10:00, Lenexa Public Market. Children (with adult) create a set of floral canvases that match together. Great gift for Mom! LenexaPublicMarket.com GeoArboretum 10:00, Overland Park Arboretum. Brief classroom presentation followed by a search for two geocaches. Pre-reg at ArtsAndRec-op.org. Enchanted Fairy Tale Forest 10:00 & 1:00, Ernie Miller. Celebrate the magic of nature with a tea party, make a fairy house, watch the parade and more! Pre-reg at 913.764.7759. Touch a Truck 10:00, Happy Rock Park (Gladstone). Get up close and personal with police vehicles, fire trucks, trash trucks and more! Pre-reg at Gladstone.mo.us. Spring Starts Here 10:00, Downtown Shawnee. Annual downtown open house event kicks off the season with activities for the entire family. CityOfShawnee.org Free Comic Book Day 10:00, Olathe Downtown Library. Stop by the children’s desk to pick up a comic book to keep! OlatheLibrary.org
Polski Day 11:00, All Saints Parish church grounds. Family fun event includes Polish music, food and entertainment. PolskiDay.com Open House 1:00, Camp Wood. Visit with staff, tour camp and try activities like archery, arts, crafts and more! CampWood.org Cinco de Symphony 5:30, Lee’s Summit High School Performing Arts Center. Live symphony performance celebrating Cinco de Mayo. LSSymphony.org Village Crawfish Festival 6:00, St Pius X Church. Date night! Crawfish dinner to benefit Kansas City Community Gardens. KCCG.org Phil Vassar Concert 8:00 Carlsen Center. Enjoy an expressive and energetic show from awardwinning singer/songwriter; no two are ever alike. JCCC.edu/theseries
6 Sunday KC Timber Challenge 5k OCR 9:00, Zip KC. A wild 5k obstacle course with 30+ unique obstacles. Pre-reg at KCTimberChallenge.com. Bulletin Day Zaxby’s (Olathe and Overland Park). Bring in a bulletin for 10 percent off entire order. Zaxbys.com
PA R K S & R E C R E AT I O N
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Summer Sundays 4:30, Merriam Marketplace. Family-friendly event with an inflatable, yard games, live music and food trucks. 913.322.5550.
7 Monday Open Jump 4:00, Urban Air Trampoline Park. Bring the kids to run, play and jump. Enjoy a little sweat with a lot of bounce! 913.298.0626 Homework Help 4:00, Jo Co Library (Central Resource). Homework coaches help students work on a specific project or use library resources. JoCoLibrary.org Fear Factor 4:30, MCPL (Grandview). Take on the role of an animal contestant and guess the creepy crawly with challenges and fun facts.
8 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 Gym for Me 9:00, Lenexa Rec Center. Kids ages 5 and under play with push toys, riding toys, balls, inflatables and more. $2. Lenexa.com
e t a r b e l e let’s c l u f i t u a e b your s g n i n n i g e b together! Join Us At Our Women’s Center Open House Saturday, May 19 I 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. 10500 Quivira Road, Overland Park, KS 66215 • A chance to win a Date Night donated by Pinot’s Palette Olathe. • Meet our staff and tour our spacious labor and delivery suites.
• Meet our nutrition experts and sign up for a postpartum nutrition class. • Meet with our newborn photographer. • Much more!
20311 RS 4/18
• Sign up for our Healthy Arrivals childbirth preparation classes and enter a chance to win a free class.
• Learn about pain management options including low intervention birthing techniques.
by a b / m o .c c m r p o t a y Register toda
Members are the art & soul of the museum
Creative Story Time 10:30, Ceramic Café. Hear a story, create a pottery piece and enjoy a simple snack. $12. CeramicCafe.com
9 Wednesday Playgroup at FBC 9:00, First Baptist Church of Shawnee. A safe place for kids to run and play and for parents to enjoy coffee and conversation. Free. 913.226.9438 Jack and the Bean ¡Mágico! 10:00 & Noon, the Coterie. The classic fairy tale Jack and the Beanstalk is told with the audience’s help. TheCoterie.org Toddler Time 10:00, Sky Zone. A time for little ones to bounce under the supervision of their parents and without interference from the big kids. SkyZone.com Open Gym Noon, Integrity Gymnastics. A great time to practice, get familiar with the gym and for kids to release energy. $6. IntegrityOP.com
Join Now
NelsonAtkins_Membership_KCParent_May18_FNL2.indd 1
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Disney Junior Dance Party on Tour 6:00, Arvest Bank Theatre. Sing and dance along to Disney Junior’s greatest hits! ArvestBankTheatre.com
4/6/18 3:48 PM
10 Thursday Whirlwind: Art in Motion 8:00, Overland Park Arboretum. Exhibit of kinetic sculpture through the gardens. ArtsAndRecOP.org Snoopy: The Musical Thru May 13 & May 1618, TCH Stage (Oak Park Mall). Based on the beloved Peanuts comic strip, this show sparkles! CultureHouse.com The Lion King Jr. Thru May 13, Bell Cultural Events Center .The African savannah comes to life with Simba, Rafiki, Pumbaa and Timon. CYTKC.org
11 Friday
THURSDAY, MAY 31
SATURDAY, JUNE 2
FRIDAY, JULY 20
FRIDAY, AUGUST 31
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. Alice in Wonderland Today & tomorrow, Carlsen Center. American Youth Ballet presents an enchanting ballet telling of the classic. JCCC.edu/theseries Peter Pan Thru May 20, Kauffman Center. KC Ballet presents the classic family adventure for those who never want to grow up! KCBallet.org
GET TICKETS NOW | KCSTARLIGHT.COM | VENUE BOX OFFICE | 816.363.STAR
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Seussical May 17-20, Bell Cultural Events Center. CYT presents a fantastical, magical, musical extravaganza! $9-$11. CYTKC.org
NASCAR Camping Work Truck Series 7:30, Kansas Speedway. Watch the tough trucks race at night at Kansas Speedway. KansasSpeedway.com Astronomy - Backyard Basics 10:00, TimberRidge Adventure Center. One-hour program will go over the basics of simple astronomy. $4-$5. Pre-reg at JCPRD.com.
12 Saturday Fishing Derby 8:30, Rotary Park (Blue Springs). Events include casting contests and largest fish caught in each category. Bring a fishing pole and bait. BlueSpringsGov.com
Royal Tea: Daughters of the King 10:00, Lenexa Baptist Church. A fun, multigenerational tea and brunch. All ages are welcome. LenexaBaptist.com Lenexa Art Fair 10:00, Civic Campus. A one-day art fair featuring more than 50 artists. Enjoy live music, food trucks and more! Lenexa.com Marble Tournament 10:00, Shawnee Town 1929. Marbles were one of the most popular games in the 1920s. Play in the tournament! Pre-reg at 913.248.2360.
Artifact ID Day/Archaeology Day 10:00, Fort Osage. Gain a better understanding of how the science of archaeology helps us to understand the past. FortOsageNHS.com
Spring Farm Tour Today & tomorrow, Miami County Farms. Visit as many tour stops as you’d like in this self-guided tour. MiamiCountyKS.org
At Home on the Frontlines 10:00, Battle of Lexington Historic Site. Experience aspects of the Civil War home front and frontlines. MoStateParks.com
Zootastik Learning Fest 10:00, Kansas City Zoo. Enjoy hands-on activities while you learn more about endangered animals. KansasCityZoo.org
Asian Festival 10:00, Overland Park Convention Center. Enjoy Asian food, martial art demonstrations, yo-yo workshops and more. MAACAweb.org
Hands-On History 11:00, National World War I Museum and Memorial. History is brought to life. Handle Great War artifacts. TheWorldWar.org Afternoon Tea Noon, Atkins-Johnson Farm. Enjoy an afternoon of tea and refreshments. Learn how to grow tea in your own garden. $15/person. 816.423.4107
Mark your calendars for Summit Fair’s 1st ever...
FIRST FRIDAY MOVIE SERIES!
Featuring an outdoor movie experience the first Friday of every month, June - October. For additional details and movie updates, follow @summitfair on Facebook, or online at www.summitfairshopping.com Summit Fair is located off NW Blue Parkway in Lee’s Summit, Missouri, at I-470 and 50 Highway.
SUMMIT FAIR
JUNE 1st @ 8:30PM
(Activities begin at 7:30)
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Coding & Cupcakes 1:00, Plexpod (Westport). Parents and daughters are invited to learn about code and how to build websites together. KCWomenInTech.org
Mother’s Day 10:00, Worlds of Fun. Celebrate Mom with a trip to Worlds of Fun! Special offer for Gold and Platinum pass holders. WorldsOfFun.com
Saturday Feeder 4:00, Cedar Cove. Come to see the public feedings of the cats, weather permitting. $5-$7. SaveOurSiberians.org
Mother’s Day 10:30, Charleston’s Restaurant. Bring Mom to Charleston’s to celebrate her special day. Charlestons.com
Second Saturdays 4:00, Downtown Weston. Stroll into unique gift shops and galleries for late-night shopping and in-store specials. WestonMO.com
Celebrate Mom 10:30, Family Tree Nursery. Take mom and let her pick out the perfect gift. FamilyTreeNursery.com
Fur Ball 5:30, Overland Park Convention Center. One of the most FUN social events in Kansas City, the Fur Ball is a fundraiser for Wayside Waifs. FurBallKC.org Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series 400 7:00, Kansas Speedway. See the best in racing compete at a night race. KansasSpeedway.com
13 Sunday Mother’s Day Celebrate Moms 10:00, Kansas City Zoo. What better way to celebrate Mom than with a relaxing day at the Kansas City Zoo? Moms are free! KansasCityZoo.org
15 Tuesday Jumperoo 9:00, Urban Air Trampoline Park. A special time for those 5 and under to enjoy access to the playground and trampoline attractions. $5-$10/child. 913.298.0626 The Art of the Brick Thru May 28, Union Station. A captivating exhibition featuring works of art made exclusively from Lego bricks. UnionStation.org
14 Monday
Tots on Tuesday 10:30, Kemper Museum. Bring in your preschooler for a fun and fashionable get-together every third Tuesday. 816.753.5784
Gym for Me 9:00, Lenexa Community Center. Kids ages 5 and under play with push toys, riding toys, balls, inflatables and more. $2. Lenexa.com
16 Wednesday
Playing for Keeps 10:00, National Museum of Toys and Miniatures. Exhibit tells firsthand stories of marble tournament players alongside their souvenirs. 816.235.8000 Toddler Tyme 10:00, Riverfront Community Center (Leavenworth). Children 5 and under play on bounce house, Big Wheels and other fun toys. $2/child. LVKS.org
Baby Bounce Story Time 9:30 & 10:30, Plaza Library. Stories and activities for the youngest set, ages newborn through 18 months. 816.701.3481 Jo Ho Storyteller 10:00, Johnson County Museum. Local storyteller Jo Ho engages with entertaining and educational stories. 913.831.3359 Animal Tales 10:30, Ernie Miller Nature Center. A 30-minute program that includes stories, songs and a visit from an animal friend. Today’s theme: snakes & snails. $2. 913.764.7759
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what’s your
MAY KC IQ?
test your local smarts with this quiz 1. Which of these animals will not be on exhibit in the Kansas City Zoo’s new Stingray Bay, opening this month?
A) Southern stingray
B) Fresh ray fish
2. President Harry S. Truman was
B) 127 C) 148
bamboo shark
D) C ownose stingray
3. T he Kansas City T-Bones begin their 2018
from Independence, MO. His birthday is May 8 and is celebrated with Harry’s Hay Days the first weekend in May in Grandview. If he were alive today, how old would he be?
A) 156
C) White-spotted
season this May. This year marks which anniversary for the team?
A) 5th
B) 10th
C) 15th D) 20th
D) 134
4. L. Frank Baum (May 15, 1856-May 6, 1919), is the beloved American author known for writing The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, a Kansas trademark, and its sequels. You may visit the Oz Museum in which Kansas town?
A) Freeport B) Arcadia C) Salina D) Wamego
5. This favorite local park is known for its Dodge Town play area and recently underwent a makeover—so the village is now more fun than ever!
A) Antioch Park B) Minor Park C) Tomahawk
North Park
D) Mill Creek Park
above
1) B : Fresh Ray Fish
D) A ll of the
2) D: 134
spare ribs cooked with dry rub and slathered with sauce
: 1 5th 3) C
C) Barbecued
4) D: Wamego
City Z-Man sandwich
5) A: Antioch Park at 65th & Antioch in Merriam
A) J oe’s Kansas B) Burnt Ends
6) D : All of the above
celebrate than Kansas City! Which of these dishes was invented in Kansas City?
ANSWER KEY:
6. M ay is National Barbecue Month, and we can’t think of a better place to
Snoopy: The Musical Thru Saturday, TCH Stage (Oak Park Mall). Based on the beloved Peanuts comic strip, this show sparkles! CultureHouse.com
17 Thursday 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 Kids Lab: Lego Lab 4:30, MCPL (Parkville). Kids discover how to bring science and technology to life. MyMCPL.org Peter Pan Thru May 20, Kauffman Center. KC Ballet presents the classic family adventure for those who never want to grow up! KCBallet.org Seussical Thru May 20, Bell Cultural Events Center. CYT presents a fantastical, magical, musical extravaganza! $9-$11. CYTKC.org
18 Friday Jack and the Bean ¡Mágico! 10:00, Noon & 7:00, the Coterie. The classic fairy tale Jack and the Beanstalk is told with the audience’s help. TheCoterie.org Junior Jaunts 10:15, Nelson-Atkins. Bring your baby in a stroller or carrier for an adult-focused yet infant-friendly tour. Nelson-Atkins.org Food Truck Friday 11:00, Union Cemetery. Enjoy a tasty and affordable lunch in downtown’s most peaceful park space. KCParks.org Master Gardeners Public Garden Tour Today & tomorrow, Johnson County. Peek inside and tour six beautiful private gardens. $12-$15. Johnson.K-State.edu
Spring Swing Today & tomorrow, Alexander Majors Barn. 100+ handmade vendors, food trucks, live music, kid’s crafts and more! TheStrawberrySwing.com
Troost Festival 11:00, Troost between 31st and Linwood Boulevard. Enjoy exhibitors, vendors, live stage, children’s activities and more. TroostVillage.org
1920s Mystery Book Club 10:00, Shawnee Town 1929 Farmhouse. Journey to Munich by Jacqueline Winspear is this month’s selection. Free. ShawneeTown.org
Family Fun 2:00, Midwest Genealogy Center. Learn about family history at our exploration stations. Ice cream, caricature artist and more! MyMCPL.org
Train Day Celebration 10:00, Frank Vaydik Park. Free train rides, entertainment, face painting, inflatables, crafts and more! KCParks.org
Wine Walk on Delaware 5:00, Delaware Street (River Market). Date night! Wine tasting hosted by a mix of Delaware Street establishments. $20. WineWalkOnDelaware.com
Celebrating Urban Birds 10:00, Lakeside Nature Center. Bird walks, crafts and talks about 15 species designated as urban birds. Free. 816.513.8960 Turkey Creek Festival 10:00, Antioch Park. A petting zoo, delicious food and unique craft vendors, music, giant inflatables and more. 913.826.3163 Fishing 101 10:00, Anita B Gorman Center. Spend the day learning about fish, fishing methods and fishing seasons in Missouri. 816.759.7300 Scavenger Saturdays 10:00, Kemper Museum of Art. Pick up a self-guided activity and follow the clues for an “ART-tastic” adventure. Free. KemperArt.org British Gala Festival 10:00, Ararat Event Center. Enjoy British entertainment and exhibits, shop British goods and savor afternoon tea. BritishGalaKC.com Chalk Walk Today & tomorrow, the Concourse Fountain. Family-friendly event transforms the sidewalks into colorful works of art. Free. NortheastArtsKC.org
Third Friday Art Walk 5:30, Englewood Station Arts District. Tour the art galleries. View live performances and artists on the sidewalks. EnglewoodStation.com
Hands-On History 11:00, National World War I Museum and Memorial. History is brought to life. Handle Great War artifacts. TheWorldWar.org
Mom & Me Camping 6:00, TimberRidge Adventure Center. Come enjoy an overnight experience together in the great outdoors! Prereg at 913.831.3359.
Meet Daniel Tiger 11:00, Paradise Park. Meet one of your favorite characters from the Neighborhood of Make-Believe. Paradise-Park.com
Yard Games Happy Hour 6:30, Kansas City Community Gardens. Games include bean bag toss, horse shoes, croquet, bocce ball and more! $5, kids free. KCCG.org
Women’s Center Open House 11:00, Overland Park Regional. Meet staff and newborn photographer, enter to win a date night and more. Pre-reg at OPRMC.com/baby.
19 Saturday
Mother Goose’s Neighborhood 11:00, Puppetry Arts Institute. Lucy Goose begins a search for Mother Goose and comes upon zany characters. $6. Hazelle.org
Family Fun Fiesta Today & tomorrow, Kansas City Zoo. Enjoy cultural crafts, and the animals enjoy fiesta-themed enrichment items. KansasCityZoo.org
20 Sunday Toddler Time 9:00, Sky Zone. A time for little ones to bounce under the supervision of their parents and without interference from the big kids. SkyZone.com Free Afternoon Program 1:30, Prairie Park Nature Center. Free program for the family may include video, slide show and going outside to enjoy nature. LawrenceKS.org Outdoor Concert Series 6:00, Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park. Free concert by Vigil Annie, a country western band playing today’s hottest chart toppers. Lenexa.com/concerts
21 Monday The Art of the Brick Thru May 28, Union Station. A captivating exhibition featuring works of art made exclusively from Lego bricks. UnionStation.org Moms Free Monday 9:30, Paradise Park. Moms are free at the Children’s EduTainment Center with a paid child’s admission. 816.246.5224 Zax Kidz® Night 5:00, Zaxby’s (Olathe and Overland Park). Zax Kidz meal only 99 cents with purchase of adult meal. Zaxbys.com
22 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 Jumperoo 9:00, Urban Air Trampoline Park. A special time for those 5 and under to enjoy access to the playground and trampoline attractions. $5-$10/child. 913.298.0626 Preschool Story Time 10:00, KCPL (Westport). Enjoy songs, dancing, silliness, crafts and, of course, books! Great for little readers ages 2 and up. 816.701.3488 kcparent.com may 2018
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Creative Story Time 10:30, Ceramic Café. Hear a story, create a pottery piece and enjoy a simple snack. $12. CeramicCafe.com
24 Thursday
23 Wednesday
Playing for Keeps 10:00, National Museum of Toys and Miniatures. Exhibit tells firsthand stories of marble tournament players alongside their souvenirs. 816.235.8000
Playgroup at FBC 9:00, First Baptist Church of Shawnee. A safe place for kids to run and play and for parents to enjoy coffee and conversation. Free. 913.226.9438
Pay for Play 10:00, Backyard Specialists. Kids will enjoy our outdoor play sets available for open play. $2/cash. 913.307.6023
Baby Bounce Story Time 9:30 & 10:30, Plaza Library. Stories and activities for the youngest set. 816.701.3481
Magic Tree House Space Mission 1:00, Gottleib Planetarium. Travel with Jack and Annie in their tree house as they learn about space. $2.50-$7. ScienceCity.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 Mommy/Daddy and Me 10:00, Scraps KC. Join Miss Sherry for a morning of fun with your little one. Pre-reg at 660.243.4470.
The Hunchback of Notre Dame Thru Sunday, Bell Cultural Events Center. CYT presents show based on the Victor Hugo novel with songs from the Disney feature. CYTKC.org
25 Friday
Open Gym Noon, Integrity Gymnastics. A great time to practice, get familiar with the gym and for kids to release energy. $6. IntegrityOP.com
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.
Dusty’s Birthday Party 2:00, Kansas City Zoo. Dusty the orangutan is turning 2! He’ll receive birthday treats during the 2:00 zookeeper chat. KansasCityZoo.org
Masika’s Birthday Party 11:00, Kansas City Zoo. Masika the gorilla is turning 3! She’ll receive birthday treats during the 11:00 zookeeper chat. KansasCityZoo.org
Illuminated Waters Today & tomorrow, Theis Park. Puppets, food trucks, interactive art, games, music and more! StoneLionPuppets.org Fourth Friday Art Walk 5:00, Downtown Lee’s Summit. A variety of activities including artist receptions and showcases, music, street theater and more. DowntownLS.org Final Fridays 5:00, Lawrence. See hundreds of artists and performers in more than 30 locations. UnmistakablyLawrence.com Busker Festival Thru Sunday, Lawrence. The area’s largest gathering of street performers. LawrenceBuskerFest.com
26 Saturday Farmers Market 7:00, Downtown Overland Park. Vendors offer a wide variety of farm fresh produce, local foods and unique specialty items. OPKansas.org Playing for Keeps 10:00, National Museum of Toys and Miniatures. Exhibit tells firsthand stories of marble tournament players alongside their souvenirs. 816.235.8000
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Child Development Center ORKSHOP “Where Your Child is Special”
2 weeks to 12 years ChildAges Development Center 6:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. “Where Your Child Is Special”
Leigh’s School of Dance Teaching children and adults the love of dance since 1970 RECREATION & COMPETITIVE LEVELS – AGES 2 & UP
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913.764.4146 135th St. & South Arapaho Dr. www.leighsschoolofdance.com
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Got Head Lice? We Can Help! The only Licensed Salon in KC, trained and certified in lice removal ALL nATurAL, SAfe And effeCTive TreATmenTS Affordable rates and guaranteed service
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162nd &and Metcalf Ave 127th & Antioch Family Owned 913.681.2191 913.681.2190 Operated Since 1990 Family Owned and Operated since 1990 weeworkshopchildcare.com weeworkshopchildcare.com
Mother Nature Reads 10:00, Lakeside Nature Center. Children listen to a story, make a craft and often see a wildlife interpretation. Free. 816.513.8960 Experiential History Program 10:00, National Frontier Trails Museum. First person interpreters bring history to life. 816.325.7575 Living History Farm Program 10:00, Watkins Woolen Mill. Demonstrations focus on the way people lived and played in the 19th century. 816.580.3387
Photo: Mason Kilpatrick
Photo: Mason Kilpatrick
Hands-On History 11:00, National World War I Museum and Memorial. History is brought to life. Handle Great War artifacts. TheWorldWar.org Rockin’ & Readin’ Nature Tales 11:00, Burr Oak Woods Nature Center. Story hour that leads kids on fantastic nature adventures. 816.228.3766 Photo: Cody Boston
Story Time 1:30, Martha Lafite Thompson Nature Sanctuary. Listen to a naturalist share a tale about an animal and make a fun craft. 816.781.8598 Saturday Feeder 4:00, Cedar Cove. Come see the public feedings of the cats, weather permitting. $5-$7. SaveOurSiberians.org
LEARN MORE AT kauffmancenter.org/futurestages PRESENTED BY PREMIER PARTNER
SUPPORT PROVIDED BY
Special Beginnings EARLY LEARNING CENTER Quality Christian early care and education for over 20 years! Lenexa Infants-School Age 10216 Pflumm Rd. 913.894.0131 School Age Care & Summer Camp Kindergarden thru 6th Grade Lenexa Location
• PT or FT Schedule • M-F, 6 am to 6 pm • NAC Accredited • Infants to 12 years • Developmental Curriculum Starting at Infants
HAVING A BABY SOON? Check out KC Parent’s Interactive Virtual Hospital Labor & Delivery Guide at KCParent.com
OLathe Infants-Pre-K 14169 Murlen Rd 913.393.2223 OverLand Park Infants-Pre-K 8205 W 108th Terr 913.378.1075
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Our interactive virtual Hospital Labor & Delivery Guide has images,complete descriptions, video, social media links and much more. SEARCH HOSPITALS BY: LOCATION | NICU LEVEL | CLASSES OFFERED kcparent.com may 2018
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27 Sunday Bulletin Day Zaxby’s (Olathe and Overland Park). Bring in a bulletin for 10 percent off entire order. Zaxbys.com KC Northern Train Rides Noon, Line Creek Park. Ride restored trains around a half-mile track in the park. $.75/ride. KCNRR.com Celebration at the Station 8:00, Union Station lawn. Attend the largest FREE Memorial Day weekend event in the Midwest. 816.460.2083
28 Monday MEMORIAL DAY Science City Open 10:00, Science City. The museum is open for today’s holiday. Bring the family for a day of fun! ScienceCity.com
Creative Story Time 10:30, Ceramic Café. Hear a story, create a pottery piece and enjoy a simple snack. $12. CeramicCafe.com
Old Shawnee Days Thru Sunday, Shawnee Town 1929. Carnival rides, entertainment, food and lots of family fun! OldShawneeDays.org
Late Night Fishing 5:00, Deanna Rose. Spend a summer evening fishing. Bait a hook, now with corn kernels instead of live worms. 913.897.2360
Trivial Pursuit®: A 50-State Adventure Thru Sept 3, Crown Center. Take a trek across the USA and enjoy an activity for every state. CrownCenter.com
30 Wednesday
Mom’s Night Out: Round 2 8:00, Starlight Theatre. The ladies of #IMOMSOHARD discuss the good, the bad and the funny about motherhood. 816.363.STAR
Farmers Market 7:00, Downtown Lee’s Summit. Shop for a variety of fresh produce, plants, meat, baked goods, crafts and more. DowntownLS.org Toddler Time 10:00, Sky Zone. A time for little ones to bounce under the supervision of their parents and without interference from the big kids. SkyZone.com
Dive In! Most pools open for the season Memorial Day weekend. Be sure to check out the online calendar at KCParent.com for holiday fun!
Where the Wild Things Are 10:30, MCPL (North Oak). Take a rumble in the jungle and meet the wild animals that live there. Pre-reg at MyMCPL.org.
29 Tuesday
31 Thursday
Lenexa Farmers Market 8:00, Civic Campus. Local vendors will offer homegrown seasonal produce, meats, baked goods and more. Lenexa.com
Whirlwind: Art in Motion 8:00, Overland Park Arboretum. Exhibit of kinetic sculpture through the gardens. ArtsAndRecOP.org
1 Friday (June) First Fridays 5:00, Crossroads Arts District. Galleries and shops remain open the first Friday of each month. KCCrossroads.org Jazzoo 7:30, Kansas City Zoo. Enjoy delicious dishes from many Kansas City area restaurants, limitless libations and entertainment. JazzooKC.org First Friday Movie Series 7:30, Summit Fair. Enjoy activities and a movie under the stars! SummitFairShopping.com Downtown Days Thru Sunday, Downtown Lee’s Summit. Festival with live entertainment, arts and crafts, a carnival and more! DowntownLS.org
KANSAS CITY MARBLE TOURNAMENT JUNE 9, 2018 / FREE MUSEUM ADMISSION Players ages 9-12 can step into the marble ring to compete for the top prize. Tournament is free, but registration is required. Enjoy free museum admission with marble activities in the galleries and marble races on the lawn.
OPEN DAILY: 10 AM – 4PM, CLOSED TUESDAYS
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5235 OAK STREET K ANSAS CIT Y, MO 64112
816.235.8000
TOYANDMINIATUREMUSEUM.ORG
KC PARENT FAMILY FUN ZONE Located next to Town Hall Saturday 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm Sunday 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm TONS of FREE Children’s Activities and Performances
SATURDAY, JUNE 2 12:00 pm 1:00 pm 1:30 pm 2:00 pm 2:30 pm 3:30 pm 4:00 pm 4:30 pm 5:00 pm Roving
Professor Farquar Hula Hoop Contest Martika Daniels Whipped Pie Bubble Blowing Contest Buffalo Chip Throwing Water Balloon Toss Sack Races & Three Legged Races Field Games Heartland Mermaid Curly Dimple
SUNDAY, JUNE 3 12:00 pm 12:30 pm 1:30 pm 2:00 pm 2:30 pm 3:00 pm 3:30 pm 4:00 pm Roving
Turtle Races Heartland Mermaid Hula Hoop Contest Buffalo Chip Throwing Relay Races Martika Daniels Professor Farquar Water Balloon Toss Polecat Annie and Cowgirl Kate
THURSDAY, MAY 31 – SUNDAY, JUNE 3 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)
SPONSORED BY
SUNDAY 11:30am – 6:00pm
Roy Inman Photographs©
FINAL DAYS
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Kansas City Zoo
May 5 & 6 Artists for the Animals May 12 & 13 Zootastik Learning Fest— Endangered Species Day May 13 Moms get in Free for Mother’s Day May 19 & 20 Family Fun Fiesta May 26 & 27 Species Spotlight—Apes May 26 & 27 Penguin March
STINGRAY BAY
Open Year Round
STINGRAY & SHARK TOUCH TANK Coming Soon!
Check online for more Zoomazing experiences!
kansascityzoo.org | 816.595.1234 | Open Daily The Kansas City Zoo, a private, non-profit organization is operated in agreement with the Kansas City, MO Board of Parks and Recreation Commissioners, partially funded by the Zoological District in Jackson and Clay Counties in MO, and is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.