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Happy summer, Kansas City!
Publisher Michael Gimotty Michael@KCParent.com
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ummer is in full swing in KC! Longtime readers of KC Parent know this is my favorite time of the year. I love the heat, the unstructured days, dinners out on the patio, the later sunsets—it’s all my cup of tea. If you feel like you’ve exhausted most of your summer plans and are looking for some fresh ideas, we’ve got you covered! Our Summer Fun Guide will help you make the most of the season. Check out great ways to explore KC with the family on pg. 44. On days that are scorchers, we’ll help keep you cool with water play ideas. And we’ve got some great crafts, recipes and so much more. Head to pg. 40 to get the fun started! This issue contains our Birthday Party Guide, which you can find in print four times a year and online at KCParent.com yearround! Low-key parties are my thing, and Stephanie Loux has you covered with tons of ideas on pg. 26. In addition, find great spots all over KC to host your child’s next party! Bonus! Some of those listed come to your home! Check them all out starting on pg. 24. Speaking of birthdays, we have a big one in the Sarver home this month! My older is celebrating her golden birthday: She turns 19 on the 19th. I imagine this one won’t be low-key, but that’s okay. After the topsyturviness she’s experienced these past few months, I think a high-key (is that the opposite of low-key?) birthday celebration may be in order. Happiest of birthdays to my Tori! I am blessed to be your mom, and you make me proud every day!
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KCPARENT.COM Even More Local Parenting Information, Articles, Events and Surprises
SEARCH KCPARENT.COM FOR MORE AFFORDABLE SUMMER FUN IDEAS: 1. Cool Summer Nights 2. FREE Summer Fun 3. Best Burgers
4. Water Fun Guide 5. Coupons and Giveaways 6. Animal Encounters
SPOTLIGHT
U-PICK FARMS In Kansas City, we enjoy many u-pick farms across the metro area where you may pick blueberries, strawberries, apples, peaches, fresh vegetables and more. It’s the season for delicious u-pick produce! Head to KCParent.com for a complete list of farms and picking tips!
7. KC Going Places Guide 8. Fourth of July
LABOR & DELIVERY GUIDE Choosing the best hospital for the arrival of your baby is an important decision. Use the KCParent.com Labor & Delivery Hospital Guide to find the perfect location for you and your child.
9. Crafts and Recipes 10. Calendar of Local Events
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MOJOFORMOMS mōjō: 1. influence, especially magic power 2. mom joy
Three Powerful Ways to Ease Anxiety This year, 2020, has felt like a scary, unpredictable stretch for people around the globe. The coronavirus has thrown us all one pandemic sized curveball, interfering with the rhythms and structures upon which we, and our children, build our lives. Gone are the carefree meetups of schools, churches and jobs, sports and clubs, friend and family gatherings. Some of us are affected more than others by grief, job loss, untrodden miles and milestones. Even if your life has not been entirely upended, there is a looming uncertainty, and many of our greatest fears in life are cloaked in the shadows of the unknown. If you or your children are feeling especially anxious and worried, know you’re not alone. Here are a few strategies to help you navigate these uncharted waters, bringing some calm into these seas.
Schedule Worry Time
Move Fast or Slow
Hug a Tree
Our brains like to worry for good reason: Biologically, our survival depends on anticipating and responding to threats. It’s helpful to worry about a pandemic if it drives us to take preventive actions like wearing masks, avoiding unnecessary gatherings and washing hands. But sometimes, worry gets a stranglehold on our thoughts, and we can’t seem to shut off our harried minds. A helpful way to interrupt incessant worry is to schedule a “worry time.” Every day, set a designated five-minute window to dive into the darkest rabbit holes that disturb your inner peace. When those five minutes are up, however, it’s time to move on. When worry comes to visit again, remind your worried thoughts that you will entertain them properly during your next worry time.
When worry ratchets out of control, try moving fast: exercising. With certain communal aerobic activities off-limits, I find bicycling, jogging and walking to be great ways to clear my head and keep my body in shape. I’ve also discovered YouTube dance workouts I enjoy with my favorite ‘80s music. My kids sometimes roll their eyes, but every now and then, when we’re feeling silly, I can convince them to sweat to the oldies with Richard Simmons in our living room. Moving slow is another strategy: prayer, meditation, even mindfully washing dishes or folding laundry— feeling the warmth and soft texture of just-dried clothes, smelling the scent of the soap—is a powerful practice, redirecting the mind from the uncertain future to the living present.
Being out in nature is soothing to the nervous soul, and not just for its sensory pleasures. The practice of “grounding” or “earthing,” being barefoot in the grass, has antiinflammatory, healing properties. Oddly, this practice causes a measurable current of electrical ions to move through the body, helping our bodies release the unhealthy free radicals that build up throughout the day. Grounding eases stress and tension, reduces blood pressure and even helps our bodies regulate circadian rhythms of sleep and wakefulness important to our overall functioning. Next time you feel anxious, go barefoot in your backyard and hug a tree.
Wendy Connelly, M.Div., is a podcaster (MoJo For Moms podcast), life coach and mother of two from Overland Park. You can find Wendy’s latest podcasts, TV appearances, retreats and more at MoJoForMoms.com.
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DATES WITH LETTER I
DATENIGHT
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Check out this month’s ideas for “I”nspiration for a great date! ITALIAN DELIGHT Italian Delight by Avelutto in Mission is a family-owned New York-style pizzeria. It’s cheap comfort food ... Italian style. This place has been around for more than 33 years and is definitely no-frills and unpretentious. You order at the counter, and they deliver your food to your table that’s adorned with a plastic tablecloth that only looks like lace. It was our first time there, so we wanted to try some pasta, although I have heard that the pizza is excellent as well. I had spaghetti with sauce, and my husband had the lasagna. Both were satisfying, especially the sauce. It was some of the best I’ve had anywhere. The menu has something for everyone: soup and sandwiches, stromboli and calzones, various types of pasta entrees, whole pizzas or pizza by the slice, and salads. They also have a lunch special every weekday. We certainly would not hesitate to visit Italian Delight again in the future.
IMAX THEATER I is for IMAX—specifically, the Regnier Extreme Screen at Union Station that is managed by B&B Theatres, where they show first run movies and science and educational features. We had never been to this theater and decided to check it out one Saturday morning. We watched Dream Big: Engineering Our World in 3D. The 45-minute flick was narrated by Academy Award-winner Jeff Bridges and was actually very interesting. This was no boring science show for sure. I’m not normally a fan of 3D, as it has made me nauseous in the past, but this one was pretty tame. If you need some sustenance while in the theater, a full concession stand is right outside the doors. I didn’t previously know what kinds of shows this theater offered, but it seemed they had some pretty interesting ones that day, including one called Extreme Weather and one on the Mysteries of China. We will definitely keep this place in mind for future educational shows.
ICE CREAM I scream, you scream, we all scream for ice cream! I don’t care what time of year it is, I am always up for some good ice cream—and good it was at Fairway Creamery. The brainchild of chocolate connoisseur Christopher Elbow, Fairway Creamery is part doughnut shop, part ice cream parlor. One half of the place houses the doughnuts, which typically sell out by noon; the other half is home to Glacé hand-dipped ice cream, made-inhouse soft serve, and hand-dipped cones made with chocolate. Picnic tables offer seating for eating outdoors. My husband went for a combo of hazelnut espresso and coconut ginger, while I opted for the peanut butter chocolate. Oh, man. I’ve been dreaming about it ever since. So good! The only bad thing—or maybe good—is that it’s 30 minutes away from where we live. Hannah Berry is a freelance writer who lives with her husband in Kansas City. They enjoy regular date nights and love trying new restaurants and activities.
FOR GREAT DATE NIGHT IDEAS STARTING WITH A-H, HEAD TO KCPARENT.COM!
LET’S ROLL!
W
e parents want the best for our children. We want them to be safe, healthy and happy. One of the most important things we can do, at each stage of their development, is to stress how an active lifestyle plays a part in physical, emotional and mental health. “Talking to my son’s pediatrician, I know he needs at least an hour a day of active, physical play. And I see the difference. He sleeps better, eats better and fights with his sister less,” says Cindy Mayer, Olathe mom. One great way to get your kids moving is to select activities they can enjoy as they grow. “Roller blading, bike riding, swimming. We like activities that provide exercise and that all the kids can do together. We have a wide age range in our house, so it is important that our activities not be limited by age,” says Noel Bergen, Kansas City, MO, mom. Bike riding is a classic family activity that can work for any age range. Here are some tips and tricks for getting your kids biking at any age!
TOTS. Children as young as 18 months can learn to ride a bike. Many parents like to start with a balance bike for their
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BIKE BASICS FOR EVERY AGE
youngsters. For little ones who don’t have the leg strength to push pedals, the simplicity of propelling themselves on a balance bike provides freedom without complication. The rider starts out by standing and walking with the bike and gradually advances through the phases to be able to sit, run and glide. “My daughter has had a balance bike since she was 2. She can fly on that thing at this point,” says Molly McKinney, Shawnee mom.
KIDS. For elementary age children, a balance bike is still an option when starting out. Another option is to remove the pedals on a standard bike and lower the seat. This allows the child to push himself along, learning how to balance and how to turn the bike. For riding lessons, try to select a learning area that is quiet and free of traffic. If the child is frightened of falling, learning to ride in the grass is an option, but he will have to push the pedals harder to get momentum.
TEENS. Riding a bike can help teenage children develop good posture, which will benefit them for the rest of their lives. If a teenager is just learning to ride, start by
letting him coast without putting his feet on the pedals. Once he can balance, let him coast with his feet on the pedals. Then allow him to try pedaling and, finally, to try steering. Always offer encouragement to help him feel less self-conscious. Even for experienced cyclists, safety is an important part of riding a bike. At any age or skill level, keep these fundamental safety points in mind:
• Always wear a helmet.
• Look where you are going, not at the ground. • Ride in single file with space between the bikes.
• Ride on the right side of the road.
• Plan your route ahead of time to keep everyone together.
• Stay alert.
• Obey all traffic laws.
• Look before turning.
Melissa Bellach is a freelance writer and mother of three living in Overland Park.
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FIVETHINGS Psych! I love to play games but finding one we all enjoy gets harder and harder. Enter Psych! Outwit Your Friends. My older played it, loved it and told me about it. It’s an app, and the nice thing is that everyone doesn’t have to be together to play. We’ve had several “Psych sessions” with relatives in St. Louis. The game generates questions about players and you each come up with an answer based on what you know about the person. Lots of laughs! Available at the app store.
Slides During my beloved summer months, I’m all about slipon-and-go footwear. Okay, I’ll admit I wear comfy shoes all year—but I don’t look out of place when wearing them during the summer months! I knew the Birkenstock brand from their sandals but didn’t realize they also offer other options! They have several styles made out of EVA (which is like a rubber material) that come in summer colors, including white and bright pink. Comfy and perfect for a day at the pool or beach! Birkenstock.com
5
THINGS WE
LOVE RIGHT NOW
Compiled by Margaret Sarver
Hubert’s Lemonade In our home, we indulge in several treats that are strictly seasonal. For example, I’ll only make pumpkin bread in the fall and I have an egg casserole that is reserved for Christmas morning. A summer fave and a staple is Hubert’s Lemonade. Even though it’s available year-round, it’s in our fridge all summer long and is the perfect drink to sip on a hot summer day. Available at retail stores all over; watch for when it’s on sale at Sprouts!
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After Sun Lotion Both of my girls are lifeguarding this summer, which means they are out in the sun a lot. They are diligent to apply sunscreen, and just as diligent in applying an after sun lotion. Through trial and error, we’ve landed on Hawaiian Tropic Lime Coolada After Sun Moisturizer. It keeps their skin soft after a day of sun and chlorine and smells great! Available at local drugstores.
America’s Incredible Pizza It’s July and it’s hot and you are looking for something indoors to do with the family. Well you are in luck! New to Kansas City is America’s Incredible Pizza. With a huge buffet, lots of games along with so many rides that include gokarts, bumper cars, scrambler (fun fact, this is my fave ride), a vortex tunnel and so much more, there’s something for everyone! Be sure to bring along the ad on pg. 3 for a FREE $5 game card. IncrediblePizza.com/KC
WORDFROMDAD
simple summer fun
“Mom, can I sleep out with Dave at our house?” “Is it all right with his mom?” Dave nodded. “We asked her first, Mrs. Thompson.” Mom picked up the newspaper and glanced at the forecast. “Okay.” Dave and I ran outside to set up the mosquito netting and shove our sleeping bags inside. Just in time for night. At full dark, we crawled into our sleeping bags, but it was far too early for sleep. We started with jokes, then switched to ghost stories. Dave looked around the yard. “Kirby’s grandmother said all this was owned by the Osage Nation. Settlers moved in and pushed them out except for one woman.” I ignored the night sounds and concentrated on the story. “Miss Mona refused to move until the man she loved came back. He never returned. Even after she got old and died, people saw her walk the creek. When young men disappeared, Miss Mona took them away, not the railroads. Last week, Mark came in from the creek and said that he’d seen Miss Mona. She wanted him to follow her, but he ran.” Even though the hairs stood up on my hands and neck, I couldn’t let this pass. “Really? You expect me to believe this?” My friend was sincere. “Ask Mark.” I tried to sleep but heard a noise before dropping off. I looked at Dave, but he sawed logs. I scrambled out of my sleeping bag, ready to bolt for the house. Miss Mona appeared nearby and beckoned for me to follow. Instead, I sprinted toward my front door and screamed. Miss Mona came closer. Dave shook me “You all right?” I stared at my friend. “I was dreaming, I guess.” “Everything okay?” “Yeah. Good night.” I rolled over in my bag. “It was so real.” William R. Bartlett lives in Belton with his family.
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going smoothly, the kids won’t be surprised by the consequences because they have been discussed calmly in advance. You won’t have a need to yell because once a rule is broken, the consequence is put into place, and the day goes on.
Give positive reinforcement
how to motivate kids without
YELLING
E
very parent yells at her kids once in a while, but when yelling becomes your go-to method of communicating your expectations, it can lead to negative results. Children who are yelled at frequently will start to tune out what is being said and will begin to use yelling as a way to express themselves also. What’s the best way to motivate kids without yelling? Here are some ideas:
Establish clear expectations
To avoid yelling in the future, establish clear rules and expectations and make sure your kids understand what those are. “Remain consistent in applying the consequences so that it is known that rules have value.” says Kara Thomas, mom and preschool teacher from Shawnee. For example, if mornings are difficult, set rules everyone in the family can follow to make things run more smoothly. Create a routine so kids know what to expect and what to
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do next. For example, everyone needs to be dressed, done eating, and have shoes on and bags packed before playing or using electronics in the morning. A natural consequence for not following this rule is loss of electronics for a day following the event. You can set a similar routine for bedtime. Let kids know what behaviors are unacceptable in the home (hitting, fighting, being disrespectful) and what the consequences are for breaking a family rule. When a rule is broken or a morning isn’t
It’s no surprise that people who receive negative feedback start to feel bad about themselves, and those who receive positive feedback, understanding and encouragement have more self-confidence and a better attitude overall. When dealing with kids, take the opportunity to encourage them and give as much positive reinforcement as possible. “If you are trying to find the balance, the two positives to every behavior correction can be a good model to try to follow.” says Thomas. When the time comes for correction, try to give advice or ask for things in a positive and calm way. This will likely have better results than yelling.
Examine yourself
If you have noticed that you yell at your children more than you would like to, think about what’s causing this. Are you rushed? Frustrated? Do you need a break? Sometimes we don’t realize how often we are yelling. Consider asking a co-parent or friend to be an accountability partner and let you know when you need to cool down and approach the situation differently. If your children are older, you can also ask them for help in changing your behavior by allowing them to point out when you are yelling. In advance, come up with some ideas of what you can try instead of yelling—if your child won’t put on his shoes, ask him to race to see who can do it faster. If you feel the urge to yell, walk into a room where your child can’t hear you and mutter out whatever you wanted to yell. This should allow you to return to the situation more calmly and direct your child in a more positive way. Let your child know in advance what the consequences of bad behavior will be and warn your child what will happen. If the behavior occurs, follow through with the consequence you set without yelling.
Give a warning
Sometimes, simply giving your child a warning can save an argument later. Calmly saying “We are leaving the park in 5 minutes” or “Please stop screaming or you will have a time-out” gives your child a chance to prepare herself and choose how to respond. When the time comes to leave the park or give a time-out, follow through on your warning. If you give multiple chances or end up staying at the park another 20 minutes, your child won’t take your warnings seriously in the future, and you may find yourself frustrated and yelling once again. “Consistency is key in your children knowing that the rules have meaning and consistent consequences for breaking them,” says Thomas.
Ask for help
One way to avoid yelling is to ask your child to help you solve the problem you are faced with. If you are expecting company
and the house is a mess, you could yell at the kids to clean up their rooms or you could present the situation as a problem that you need help solving. “Our friends are coming over in 30 minutes and there are toys all over the floor. What should we do?” You may find that when it is presented this way, your children will come up with the solution you were wanting in the first place. They’ll pick up their toys, and you won’t even need to yell at them. If they don’t come up with the solution you were looking for, make sure to tell them what you need from them and give them clear guidelines on what you expect to happen.
Be understanding
As parents, we often forget our kids are just that—kids. Their behavior is not going to be perfect or rational all the time. They may have something going on they haven’t shared with you, they may be overtired,
or they may be frustrated or worried. All these things can cause them to act out or forget to do what is expected of them. Try to be understanding, validate their feelings and listen to what they have going on at school or with friends and siblings. Simply talking about their feelings and strengthening your relationship with them will help motivate them to listen and obey you in the future. Everyone makes mistakes, even Mom and Dad, and we will occasionally yell at each other. The key is to try to discipline in a positive and calm way. Our kids will follow our lead as they face conflict and frustrations.
Sarah Lyons is a part-time freelance writer and full-time mom. She lives in Olathe with her husband and six children.
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the value of your family stories
O
ne of the benefits of staying home is enjoying more quality family time with meals around the dinner table and the opportunity for good conversation. Maybe that’s the silver lining for families in this challenging time of COVID-19. You have an important gift to give your children as you spend time together. You can be sure your children know your family stories. The telling of these often begins with you, the parents, sharing some of your growing-up experiences in an effort to support and encourage your kids as they go through disappointments or other setbacks. But there is so much more. Kids want to know who they are. What does their family stand for, believe in and champion? And how did they arrive at their convictions? What life experiences or family history formed and strengthened family values, beliefs and behaviors? Robin Fivush, Ph.D., of the Family Narratives Lab at Emory University, studies and teaches about the treasure trove of each family’s history. She has learned a great deal about the value of each person knowing his or her family’s stories. Did a grandparent or great-grandparent emigrate from another country? Did family members experience war? The Depression? The influenza pandemic of 1918? Did family members experience hardships or
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accomplish incredible feats? Just how did your family arrive at the core values you hold to be true? One way to begin the search for a shared family history is to interview older relatives. (See the link at the end of this article for a questionnaire to help guide family interviews.) Once the interviews are completed, the family can come together to compare notes and have meaningful conversations related to the stories. Here are some of the benefits of a shared family history.
A heightened sense of identity Children who know their intergenerational history have a stronger sense of who they are in relation to the rest of the world. They experience a kinship with their family lines and learn to identify with the culture, the life experiences, the adventures and the struggles of past generations. They find their true selves and are stronger for it.
A stronger sense of what the family believes in and stands for Knowing a grandfather or great-grandfather experienced the horrors of war, emigrated to a new land to find a better life, worked three or four jobs to take care of his family—these stories give children the understanding that the people who came before them sacrificed so that today’s generation could have all they
need. Children who see this history and learn the stories come to value their current life and their lifestyle in deeper ways.
A clearer knowledge of family values and emotional stability Learning the family history with all its stories of the past helps children of today toward emotional well-being. They’ve created meaning from those stories and have learned how past family experiences affect them today. It provides perspective. It makes children more grateful and able to face any struggles or hardships that come their way now. Begin by sharing your growing-up stories. Kids love to hear of times when you made some of the same mistakes they make today. They love to hear of your adventures and your escapades. They have a hard time imagining earlier days, so they’ll be all ears when you share from those “long ago times.” Then move on to hearing the stories of older, living family members. Your family may even catch the genealogy bug and delve into researching the family tree. It’s an enjoyable hobby and it will all begin with sharing your family’s unique stories. Jan Pierce, M.Ed., is the author of Homegrown Readers and Homegrown Family Fun. Find Jan at JanPierce.net.
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PARENT M A YE A R S
GA
35 KC
Z I NE
19
85
–2 0
20
A Peak at Then and Now In honor of KC Parent’s 35th anniversary, we take a look at trends in 1985 and in 2020.
1985
2020
Top Boy Names
Top Boy Names
1. Michael 2. Christopher 3. Matthew 4. Joshua 5. Daniel
Top Girl Names
1. Jessica 2. Ashley 3. Jennifer 4. Amanda 5. Sarah
1. Liam 2. Noah 3. William 4. James 5. Oliver
Top Girl Names
1. Emma 2. Olivia 3. Ava 4. Isabella 5. Sophia
Top Toys
Top Toys
1. Cabbage Patch Kids 2. Transformers 3. Pillow People 4. Pogo People 5. Skateboard
1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Blume Dolls Baby Yoda Plush LOL Surprise Lego Trolls World Tour Pop Village Celebration Baby Shark Fingerlings
Cost of a Gallon of Milk $1.98
Cost of a Gallon of Milk $3.52
Homes with Computers 8%
Homes with Computers 89%
KC Metro Populations 1.43 Million
KC Metro Populations 2.34 Million
Cost of Raising a Child to 18 $85,926
Cost of Raising a Child to 18 $233,610
Sources: WhatToExpect.com, BabyNames.it, BigTop40.com, PopSugar.com, WorldPopulationReview.com, SpendMeNot.com
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THE HISTORY OF
KC PARENT M
oviegoers sported big hair and big shoulder pads at Back to the Future showings, Tina Turner and Bruce Springsteen shone among the top pop artists, and George Brett led the KC Royals to their first World Series triumph. It was 1985—the same year that KC Parent showed up on the scene. “Magazines were going through a kind of renaissance, with lots of segmented titles coming out to serve very segmented audiences,” Bob Unell, the magazine’s founder explains. He and his wife, Barbara, combined their skills in advertising, marketing, and publishing to give Kansas City what they noticed other notable cities had: parenting news and information tailored to a metropolitan area. KC Parent launched as a monthly newsprint tabloid-size publication with Barbara as the editor. “We were driven by the mission to help families raise responsible, caring young people to become self-sufficient adults,” Barbara says. Early editorial content revolved around hot topics of the time: families with two working parents, women’s roles and childcare issues. With no internet, finding information on raising children was not as easy as it is today. “The audience was Baby Boomers,” Bob says. “They were real informationseekers. Laptops and desktops were still a few years away. It was an exciting time for parenting.” The Unells owned the magazine for nearly a year before they sold it to another married couple so they could focus on national projects and publications. Then, in 2005, family values, bright ambition and a love for Kansas City led Michael and Susan Gimotty to acquire the magazine. A few years earlier, the Gimottys had started KC Baby & Maternity from scratch and were ready to expand their hometown reach. “My prior job had me on the road a good amount, and I knew this wasn’t something I wanted long-term once we started a family,” Michael says. “After Susan and I had four kids in six years, I was eager to put myself in a position where I could be around for my kids seven days a week. I have always been an entrepreneur by nature and enjoy taking on new challenges.” The Gimottys jumped right in with making their own imprint on the publication, launching numerous modifications right off the bat and in the succeeding years. One of the first things they did was change the publication to a magazine-sized glossy product, making it easy for on-the-go moms to grab and stick in their bag for later. In addition, they converted the editorial to a local slant, with nearly all the stories coming from local writers. Also, KC Parent launched a strong digital presence that has been a huge part of its success in the past decade. KCParent.com gets more than 3.2 million page views annually, the weekly eNewsletter goes to nearly 53,000 people, and the Facebook page has more than 54,000 fans. One thing that has not changed over the years is the timely, useful information the magazine provides. “The reason why Kansas City parents turn to our magazine for advice and tips is because the content has stayed relevant and local. Our calendar, both in print and online, has remained incredibly popular with our readers,” Michael says. “It is a real joy to know that we play some role in connecting families together in Kansas City.”
Then FREE | March 2020 |
1985
&
KCParent.com
| Since 1985
KC’S #1
CAMP GUIDE!
HELPING KIDS
75+ great
MAKE
GOOD
camps featu
DECISION
red
S
SPRING BRE AK travel tips staycation and ideas
Now 2020
Many of KC Parent’s early advertisers still advertise today!
Susan Gimotty lives in Overland Park and has enjoyed an up-close and personal seat at KC Parent’s history.
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party
KC Parent’s
guide
• fresh ideas • terrific themes • great venues
Ceramic Café Celebrate your child’s birthday at Ceramic Cafe. All parties are scheduled for one-anda-half hours, giving you plenty of time to open presents and serve cake and ice cream. Choose from painting pottery, creating with clay or a glass fusion project. Ceramic Cafe birthday parties are creative and fun for any age. Call 913.383.0222 or visit www.CeramicCafeKC.com for more details. See display ad on pg. 24.
Gymboree Choose your child’s favorite theme and we’ll create a private, personalized party experience filled with kid-friendly activities guaranteed to be 100% fun with zero clean up! We specialize in 1st birthday parties all the way to 5th birthday parties. Gymboree Play & Music parties are available to members and non-members. Call to find out more details. 913.262.3339 (Leawood). See display ad on pg. 24. www.GymboreeClasses.com
P rincess at my Party
Have your favorite princess at your party! Parties Include: Story Games Facepaint Music Prizes & More
Play & Learn Music and Art Birth thru 5 yrs old
PAINTING AT HOME AT-HOME BIRTHDAYS
You host the party, Ceramic Café provides the fun!
CREATIVE STORY TIME PACKAGES Purchase the supplies and watch a video of the story at home!
Rachel Johnson
rachel@princessatmyparty.com
816.830.4841
www.princessatmyparty.com
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CeramicCafeOnlineStore.com Easy ordering for take home pottery fun!
Personalized
Birthday Parties!
School Skills Ages 3-5 10517 MISSION ROAD, LEAWOOD, KS
913-262-3339 GYMBOREECLASSES.COM
Johnson County Parks and Recreation Have your next party with JCPRD! We offer room rentals and organized party activities such as: geocaching in a JCPRD park; gymnastics or obstacle course at Mill Creek Activity Center; KidScape at the Johnson County Museum; the Escape Room at the Lanesfield Historic Site; animal presentations at Ernie Miller Nature Center; and outdoor activities at TimberRidge Adventure Center. See all of our party options at www.JCPRD.com/birthdayparties and our display ad on page 29.
Kansas City Zoo Let the Kansas City Zoo host your child’s next birthday party. We guarantee a wild time for every guest! Our birthday party packages are for children 1-10 years of age. All packages include Zoo admission, a private space with your Education Party Host, cupcakes, and much more! Addon options include face painters, themed decorations, animal encounters and so much
more! Visit our website to check out these exciting options at www.KansasCityZoo.org. See display ad on pg. 29.
Princess at My Party Have your child’s favorite character come to the birthday party! Choose from Elsa, Anna, Rapunzel, Moana, Elena, Ariel, Belle, Sleeping Beauty, Cinderella, Jasmine and Snow White. Also, inquire about our new Super Girl, Wonder Woman, Batman and Spider-Man parties! Watch the magic unfold as the children go on an adventure that includes a story, games, music, a makeover or face painting and a treasure hunt. See display ad on pg. 24. 816.830.4841. www.PrincessAtMyParty.com
Sky Zone Give your child the best birthday party ever at Sky Zone! Your kids and their friends will experience the fun of jumping, flying and flipping on our wall-to-wall trampoline courts. Throwing a great party can get complicated,
but Sky Zone offers all-inclusive packages that make it easy and hassle-free to have a jump-tastic party. NEW Ninja Warrior, Rock Climbing, Warped Wall, Aerial Silks, Wipe Out, and more ways to play coming soon! Attractions vary by location. Two Locations: Sky Zone Kansas City and Sky Zone Lee’s Summit. See display ad on pg. 25 for $50 coupon. www.SkyZone.com
Urban Air Trampoline Park At Urban Air, in Overland Park (143rd & Metcalf) and Lenexa (87th & I-435), no age limits means fun for all! Face off against friends in the Warrior Obstacle Course, Tubes Playground, or Slam Dunk Zone. Fly sky high and bounce off the walls of our APEX trampolines, then join an epic battle of dodgeball. New attractions, SkyRider and climbing walls, coming soon! Urban Air is the ultimate birthday party, team party and “just because” party destination! See display ad on pg. 28. www.UrbanAirTrampolinePark.com
Use Code: KCBDAY50 • Coupon expires 9/30/20 • Terms & conditions apply.
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low - key birthday party ideas
t
he coronavirus threw us all a curveball when it comes to gatherings, and I had to get creative to celebrate my youngest’s fifth birthday in April and my eldest’s 10th birthday in June. I’m sure you’ve seen on social media the amazingly creative ways people are celebrating birthdays, but we can all use some insights on how to have a low-key (but still fun and memorable) birthday party. In general, our loose family rule is to have a bigger party every other year and a low-key birthday on the opposite years. This has worked out pretty well for us, and there are definitely simple ways to make all birthdays special for your child. Think the different aspects of a typical birthday party and simply make those happen at home with family.
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says, “We let them be the boss of their birthday. They get to A key determining factor for keeping a party low-key is choose all their favorite foods that day and anything they timing in relation to meals. To keep preparations as relaxed want to do. They don’t have to do any chores or homework as possible, consider hosting a party between meals so that that day either. Only fun allowed!” snacks and cake are sufficient for guests. This helps keep Speaking of fun, the next aspect to consider is stress and cost down and actually leaves more time for fun entertainment. Obviously, kids are unique in their interests, for the kids. Another idea is to host a pajama party in the so lean into what excites them, but with our first Covid-19 morning and have birthday donuts and fruit. This is a fun birthday this spring, we discovered a love for a birthday spin on a less-expensive party, and the festivities are over scavenger hunt. I was trying to figure out ways to make my with before lunch! son’s day special and stumbled upon this idea on Pinterest Decorations are an easy way to add some excitement to (where else?). It was simple and a huge hit! I honestly just the birthday boy or girl’s day. Add streamers or an avalanche printed off premade clues, and that’s how my son found his of balloons to your child’s door for him to wake up to, order birthday gifts! His older siblings were totally into it too and or make a balloon garland, or tie a fun helium balloon to have requested this as a new birthday her breakfast chair. If your youngster tradition. Then, letting the birthday has a favorite hobby or movie, go all in child call the shots most of the day is on a theme! While home during this Think about the a fun way to make sure the honoree pandemic, Rachael Kennedy, mother feels special. Maybe he would love to of five, celebrated her daughter’s different aspects of play his favorite family board games, fourth birthday. “We got super into a typical birthday watch favorite movies or shows, or play decorations since we couldn’t go out. outside all day. Each room was a different party theme party and simply Friends are another fun part of (we have lots from past parties), and any birthday celebration. To keep a make those happen she got to pick each meal throughout birthday low-key, consider inviting the day.” For older kids, put a dollar in at home with family. only a couple close friends to come a balloon in their room for every year play for a couple hours. Taking just one of their age. They have to pop all of or two friends along to go bowling, to them to retrieve their birthday cash! an arcade, zoo or trampoline park is a simple proposition. Another fun and simple way to make the birthday For my daughter’s fifth birthday, she had a couple neighbor kid feel special is to incorporate all of his favorite foods girls over for an afternoon tea party, and it was super sweet throughout the day or make special exceptions like and simple. breakfast in bed or ice cream sundaes for dinner. In one If hosting a low-key birthday party doesn’t sound lowof my MOPs (Mothers of Preschoolers) meetings, we key enough, hit that easy button and let a venue handle it decorated a special plate that we use only for birthdays. all! KC has so many options for parties that pretty much It doesn’t seem like much, but the kids remember it and take care of everything, and all you have to do is show up! feel special on their special day. We usually do birthday A final thing we have done over the years is to read pancakes, and I try to make their pancakes into their age Happy Birthday to You! by Dr. Suess each birthday night. number. You could also do silver dollar pancakes for their My older kids are trying to age out of this tradition, but age too. Another idea is to incorporate Funfetti cake mix they still secretly love it. Traditions are a powerful part of into your pancake batter. I also advise asking your kids family belonging. Recounting your child’s birth story is what they would like for all birthday meals, because mine another special tradition that can be done just orally or by often surprise me. Most of my children don’t like traditional looking back on baby photos too. Our children’s birthdays birthday cake (even though I enjoy being creative and are always a special day for us parents to remember how our making them, but it’s not my birthday). So we’ve developed lives changed that day and how far we’ve come as a family. a fun tradition of coming up with a favorite or new dessert just for them. We have had ice cream cake, brownies, skillet cookies we call pizookies, and Scotcheroos. This can be an easy yes to make birthdays special and memorable. Dinner Stephanie Loux is the mom of Layla, 10, Mason, 8, and out, whether it’s a simple kids meal from a favorite fast Slade, 5, and enjoys birthday planning and celebrating her food joint or entrees at or from a favorite restaurant—is kiddos each year. usually an easy win, too. Joellyn Nauman, mother of three,
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easy party favors Snacks
Bubbles What says summer more than a bottle of bubbles? Throw in a pack of water balloons and you are sending kids home with an afternoon of fun.
Movies
Plant
Everyone loves a movie night! Send kids home with a bag of microwave popcorn and a box of candy for their own at-home movie night.
Give each partygoer a pack of seeds and a small shovel. They will love planting and watching the seeds grow.
Health Supplies Have you noticed all the band-aids with different characters? Choose some that go along with the theme of the party and give each child a box to take home. Functional and fun! 1 9/13/19 9:01 AM kcparentguide2019.pdf
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Send kids home with a snack for later! Chances are good there’s a fruit snack to match your party theme. Don’t overlook those mini items—mini cereal boxes, packages of muffins, granola bars. Grab a few and place in a festive bag.
Color Kids love to create, and a blank sidewalk is the perfect canvas! Buy a pack of sidewalk chalk to allow kids to get creative.
Games Card games or puzzles are both the perfect cost and size for a party favor! Often you can find puzzles to match your theme at the dollar store.
Arts & Culture Gymnastics Nature & Outdoors Sports
Craft Supplies Stop by the dollar store for a wide variety of craft supplies that kids of all ages will enjoy!
ized From organ om ro activities to r party, ou rentals for y vered. co we have you
Personalize It Grab a cute cup or water bottle and a paint pen and personalize it for a fun take-home item for each party guest!
Visit KCParent.com for more fun, creative ideas to make your party a success!
visit the virtual
party guide at KCParent.com
Have a WILD Birthday Party at the Zoo! oo.org for details Go to kansascityz rty today! pa and to book your
for your guide to throwing an unforgettable party in kc!
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. kcparent.com july 2020
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WHAT INQUIRING PARENTS OF TEENS
WANT TO KNOW Parents of teens have questions. For advice on topics ranging from pandemic concerns to wise decision-making, we turned to Kansas City experts for answers to some of our most pressing questions.
LIVING IN A PANDEMIC WORLD How do I support my teen who is anxious and worried that her senior year will be negatively impacted by a possible resurgence of the pandemic? Reducing uncertainty is one of the most effective techniques we can use to manage anxiety. We can do this by asking questions and educating ourselves. For teens worried about how their senior year may be impacted by COVID-19:
One of the best ways to help you connect with your teenagers and make them feel safe and understood is to carefully listen and validate their feelings when they talk to you.
• Stay up to date on what is happening locally and with your school.
• Educate yourself and use accurate, appropriate sources of information (school websites) in a balanced way.
• Avoid spending large amounts of time on social media and other forms of media, which can exacerbate anxiety.
• Avoid planning for the worst, which is just another way to focus on uncertainty.
• Focus on what you know and what you can do.
• Realize that no matter what happens, you will graduate and many people are working to adapt activities and schedules as necessary to keep everyone as safe and healthy as possible.
COVID-19 should not be allowed to define our teens’ lives. Help teens find balance and joy each day in their activities. Encourage them to get outside, connect with peers, stay busy with hobbies, find a new hobby or start a fun project. All these kinds of activities will decrease anxiety and increase positive emotions. ~ Stephen Lassen, Ph.D., pediatric psychologist, University of Kansas Health System
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RESPECTING OTHERS
EXPRESS FEELINGS
How can I make sure I’m teaching my sons to respect women and minorities?
How do I create a safe space for my teen to express his or her feelings?
The most important way to teach our children to respect women and minorities is through modeling this respect in our own words and behavior. This includes demonstrating respect consistently, but also includes labeling disrespect, prejudice and other negative behaviors and attitudes when you and they observe them in others in daily life, in current events and in entertainment.
One of the best ways to help you connect with your teenagers and make them feel safe and understood is to carefully listen and validate their feelings when they talk to you. So often when teenagers come to us, we parents are quick to offer advice and let them know the reasons why what they’re thinking isn’t right in some way. Validating your teens’ feelings has nothing to do with whether their feelings are right or wrong or you agree with them. It’s just understanding and showing them, “Okay, I get it.”
Biases are ingrained in our culture, therefore, can be invisible unless specifically called out. Be aware and label your own bias as well. Are you more nervous if the person walking down the street behind you is an ethnic minority? Consider why this might be and work to challenge these reactions. ~ Sara Gould, Ph.D., psychologist, Children’s Mercy, Division of Developmental & Behavioral Health
By listening, validating and withholding advice unless requested, you will teach your teens to trust their own feelings and emotions, which helps them learn to problem-solve and connect to that inner wisdom to make decisions. ~ Julie Gettings, MSW-LSCSW, professional staff therapist, KC PCIT (Parent-Child Interaction Therapy)
MANAGE STRESS How can I help my teen better manage stress? Help teens see how challenges can be opportunities for growth and personal enhancement, not simply something to endure or try to escape. Encourage flexible thinking by asking them to consider questions like “What are some other reasons why this happened? or “How can this benefit you?” As teens begin to think more accurately and flexibly about situations they encounter, they will experience less stress. The situations don’t change, but how they respond to them will help decrease the subjective experience of stress. Physical activity, good nutrition and high quality sleep are particularly important to help teens more effectively manage challenging situations. Other ideas to help teens maintain good balance in their lives:
• Stay connected to peers who are a positive influence.
• Maintain a regular daily schedule.
• Focus on accomplishing developmentally appropriate tasks such as getting a job and getting their driver’s license.
• Engage in proactive and healthy habits.
• As a parent, role model healthy habits around how you manage stress.
Stress can be detrimental to our health at high and consistent levels, but it can also lead to strength and growth in our lives if we let it work for our benefit. An old English saying teaches, “A smooth sea does not make a skilled mariner.” Similarly, lives devoid of stress do not make strong, capable human beings. ~ Stephen Lassen, Ph.D., pediatric psychologist, University of Kansas Health System
THE DEVELOPING TEEN BRAIN Why does my teen make unwise choices? Teens often make unwise choices because of adolescent cognitive development. Teens’ brains aren’t done yet. Independence is growing rapidly, but the brain’s control centers are not yet fully online. Teens are often impulsive, and short-term gain (or cost) is a greater influence than long-term gain (or cost). Decision-making skills and abstract thinking skills are still developing and are inconsistent and easily overridden by emotion. That’s why parenting a teen is so tricky. The goal is to allow as much independence as your teens have demonstrated they can manage responsibly—and decrease independence if your teens’ behavior shows they aren’t quite ready. All teens develop differently, so this may result in your setting different limits and expectations than your teen’s friends have. ~ Sara Gould, Ph.D., psychologist, Children’s Mercy, Division of Developmental & Behavioral Health
Christa Melnyk Hines is a nationally published freelance journalist. She and her husband reside in Olathe with their two teens. As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns. kcparent.com july 2020
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BEST DOLLAR DIVES
N
othing boosts our bliss better than a bargain. However, binge watching Extreme Couponing isn’t going to save our families any green. I have something better in mind. All ages, from toddlers to adults, can find a little frugal fun at these firms, and all you need is one dollar! That’s right! I said it: one measly dollar. And you can find the place in just about every state and city. Dollar stores have permeated most communities, but not every piece of merchandise is the same. That’s why you have me! When we’re finished here, you’ll know the best dollar store buys from this array of bargain businesses.
PARTY PACKS Here’s where you can really go crazy! Birthday parties, anniversaries, baby showers or even small get-togethers can benefit from bargain plates, forks, party favors and even decorations. You’ll spend pennies on the dollar for festive trimmings. Not only can you get terrific deals on party items, but you’ll also find holiday/ seasonal items at bargain prices. That way you can decorate your home for a holiday without breaking the bank!
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FOR THE KITCHEN
NOT SO FAST…
You’ll find great dollar store options for your kitchen too. Pot holders, towels and now kitchen gadgets like measuring cups and rubber spatulas are economical essentials. At regular department stores, these items can cost you three to four dollars or more, but you’ll score big savings here at the dollar store. The best part about shopping at the dollar store in the kitchen aisle is that they also offer so much food! Snacks for lunches, after-school snacks for the ride back home and even canned goods. Best buys ever!
While the dollar store has a number of worthwhile buys, not everything is worth the investment. From my personal experience, I’ve learned to stay away from things like headphones, car chargers and basically anything capable of causing a small fire when connected for long periods of time. My personal devices never have been set ablaze, but the tech accessories just don’t seem to last. Usually after a week or so, they break and, for me, that’s totally not worth my bucks! Another thing I recommend avoiding are the laundry cleaners. You may find them troublesome if you have sensitive skin or are washing anything near and dear to you. Well, there you have it, folks: my personal favorite finds that won’t break the bank. The best part about these dollar destinations is you can buy and try until you find your favorites! Good luck and happy bargain hunting!
STORAGE From water bottles to food containers and even closet storage, the dollar store’s organization and storage items are a bargain bonanza for shoppers. They even sell name brands, like Rubbermaid, that are sure to last. My personal favorites are the colored plastic bins. If you’re a crafter, they really can stop the project supply mayhem, with different fun shapes and colors to choose from! Now that you’ve got a pretty good idea of the dollar store’s best buys, let’s chat about those items to avoid.
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The Allowance Conundrum
T
he word allowance might conjure up images of trustfund kids and seems to hint at getting paid to do nothing. Poll a few of your friends about whether or not kids should get an allowance and you’ll hear all sorts of answers. People seem to be in several different camps on this issue, including those who believe kids should: 1. Do chores because they get a place to sleep and food to eat. 2. Be paid by the chore to learn the value of working for money. 3. Receive a set amount of money every week to do chores as needed. 4. Be paid an allowance to learn how to manage money. Michele Shimp is of Camp #1 but visits Camp #2 and says, “As for allowance, no, we don’t pay it. We decided that there are things the kids just have to do as members of the family: dishes, trash, laundry, feeding pets, cleaning room, mowing the lawn in the summer, the basics. However, they do have opportunities for money chores. These are chores out of the norm like cleaning the fridge, vacuuming the van, mowing a part of the lawn that is not their responsibility, cleaning a closet, etc.” Weighing in for Camp #2, we used to have my husband. He used to pay a quarter per chore (called chore points) for things like emptying the dishwasher and gives maybe three chore points for something like cleaning the bathroom. Daniél Waters Minton has a different way of paying: “Max has always been able to earn money if he wants it. He gets 1 cent per minute, or 10 cents for 10 minutes, or $6/hour. I break it down because sometimes he’s only got 25 minutes in him. He can earn it by doing chores outside of his normal expected stuff or by babysitting his little brother.” Joanna Nesbit of Camp #3 says, “We give our kids allowance. We don’t pay for chores, but we give a predictable set amount each week, and then we require the kids to pay for things like clothes (my 15-year-old), meals with friends, movies, toys, anything they want that is considered extra.”
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And finally, Deanna Butler of Camp #4 says, “I give my kids a joke of an allowance in lieu of buying them things like packs of gum at checkout lines, etc. They each get $10 a month (even the near teen) and from that $2 goes into savings. Everything else they earn via their own entrepreneurial spirit.” David McCurrach of KidsMoney. org says, “Remember, the purpose of an allowance is to give your children the opportunity to learn how to manage money through their own successes and failures and the input of their parents.” No matter which allowance or chore camp you come from, here are some tips from counselor Andrea Ramsay Speers:
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1. Don’t link allowance to chores. Expect kids to pitch in with chores because they are a part of the family, not because they’re getting paid. 2. Teach them how to save by turning over a few regular expenses to them, and build it into how much their allowance is. For example, instead of you giving them money each week for their church offering, or for a snack at the arena, give them enough money in their allowance to cover those costs, and let them know that they are expected to remember their money and budget in order to have enough for what they need. 3. Teach them not to buy on credit (“Mom, can you give me an advance on my allowance?”) but instead to save their money and only buy what they can pay cash for. 4. Don’t base an allowance amount on age, base it on need and maturity level. Decide with your kids individually what each of them can handle based on experience and go from there. 5. Don’t forget that your kids are watching! Make sure you’re modeling financial responsibility by not overspending, buying things you can’t afford or putting too much emphasis on material goods. Kerrie McLoughlin’s stance has changed, and now her teens mow the lawn in exchange for cell phone service.
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turn clutter into $$$
With all the online options, it’s a snap to start earning money from little-used items around your house.
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L
et’s face it, many of us have been staying home more these days, which means we are looking around our houses more and thinking, why on earth did I keep that? And what is in that box in the storage room that I haven’t opened since I moved? The task can seem daunting at times, but if you take a step-bystep approach, you can slowly clear away that clutter. The tried but true garage sale is still a good option because it is outside in the open air. You can amp up your game by combining a sale with several neighbors, then sharing photos of items online through the social media of your choice. Make eye-catching signs for passing motorists. A themed garage sale can be unique. For example, a man cave sale can feature tools, lawn equipment or men’s clothing. How
about a little mermaid sale, featuring girls’ dolls, clothing and swim equipment? Make up your own theme and spread it across your Facebook Marketplace and any local selling site in your area. A focused theme also can help you organize what you sell, directing you to cull through your old items that belong to that category. Also, never tackle the entire basement or storage room at one time. Choose one box or one dresser full of clothes and go from there. Make a list and place it near the clutter. One day, mark off the blue tub, one day mark off the top shelf of the closet, and another day, select large furniture items. Those items are great for donating to Salvation Army, the American Red Cross or any other thrift shop or donation center near your home. This way, you can get a receipt to take off your taxes, and they
appreciate the donation so much. One time we donated a 10-foot, pre-lit artificial Christmas tree that was too big for us to handle, and when I went back to the donation center, they told me a church had it now. That made us want to donate more! Another tip is to become an ebay aficionado. The process is secure and backed by the company’s security policies. With the nice smartphones we have, you can take professional photos of items such as shoes, purses, jewelry, basically anything. With summer here, feature sandals, swimsuits, your kid’s rafts, life jackets or pool toys. Someone is always looking for that size of jeans or special occasion dress. You can make money with a large number of items, or just sell a few things for a bit of quick cash. This is true for any selling platform in your area. Do a little research and decide which works best for your items. For example, Lee’s Summit Online Garage Sale is a great shareable site. Decide what motivates you, which is probably money. Consider upcycling
furniture or décor and selling some of your clothes and accessories on Poshmark. You may not make millions, but it definitely helps. Ask yourself whether you need to get rid of your clutter quickly or whether you are willing to hold out a bit for a potentially decent payout? Another moneymaker can be your old electronics. Sell them to stores including Game Stop, V Stock or even pawn shops. The Decluttr app helps you earn money from old video games, CDs, DVDs, cell phones, tablets and even books. Amazon Trade-In takes old smartphones. Swap.com is an online consignment shop for those old children’s clothes and toys. Consigning items is another great option. Good candidates are items your children no longer use, such as that lacrosse stick on the garage shelf, or the violin that hasn’t been played in years and is sitting in the case in your child’s closet. Or that stack of video games covered in dust cluttering your living room. Other popular items are barely worn designer clothes and children’s and baby
clothes. All could earn you a few bucks if you get them to the right people. The trick to making decluttering less daunting is to plan in your mind what you want to do. Don’t stand back and feel overwhelmed by the shelves full of stuff. Focus on one item or section at a time. And involve the kids. Have them select one or two items from their toy box that they don’t play with or have outgrown. Place a laundry basket or tub in their room and give them time. Then, when the items make money, they can have the fun of picking out a new toy or pair of shoes they’ve been wanting. When you involve them, they will see it as a game and find fun in the process!
An avid outdoors girl, Judy Goppert lives in Lee’s Summit. She enjoys drawing on her personal experiences to write about the nuances of everything wonderful about life. Sources: HowStuffWorks.com, ILikeToDabble.com
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Moms! Make YOU a Priority
R
aising kids is one of the most life-changing and rewarding times of your life, but it can also be the most exhausting and draining as well. Moms typically make their kids their top priority, putting them above their own needs and wants, but moms need to make time for themselves so they can continue to be at their best when it comes to supporting and taking care of their families. Moms, it’s time to make you a priority.
WHY Your mental health is important Being a mother has its emotional highs and lows. Your body goes through amazing changes, both physically and mentally, during pregnancy, birth and the years that follow. It is important for moms to make their mental health a priority. Ask your significant other or a trusted friend to help you monitor when you are struggling. Ask for help if you feel you are not at your best emotionally. Taking care of your family on a day-to-day basis can drain your emotional reserves, but when you have participated in activities that make you feel happy and healthy, it is easier to be attentive and supportive to those around you.
Your physical health is a priority If you are physically exhausted, being patient with your kids or getting anything productive accomplished at home or work
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becomes that much harder. Getting good rest, exercising and eating healthy are important for moms to feel their best. It’s also important for moms to prioritize their health by visiting the doctor and dentist, and keeping other appointments to maintain health on a regular basis. So often moms will delay their own scheduled doctor visits to make time for their families, but routine checkups can prevent issues before they arise.
HOW TO MAKE YOURSELF A PRIORITY Find your tribe Having a group of friends that understand what it’s like to raise children, work, maintain a healthy lifestyle and commit to a loving marriage is important for moms to feel “normal” and supported. Moms groups (like MOPS), online meetups or groups, book clubs or church groups are great places to meet and connect with other moms who share common ground.
Set aside time Between errands, extracurricular activities, housework and spending time with your kids, setting aside time for yourself can seem an impossibility. Spending time alone, with your spouse (without your kids) and with friends is so important for moms to feel energized for another day. Add time for you to the family calendar to assure it happens on a regular basis and any childcare needs are met.
Exercise
Ask for help
A good exercise routine not only keeps you healthy and fit, but it can also help you feel better about yourself, as well as give you an extra energy boost for the long days of mothering. Taking time for exercise can also give you a chance to be alone and listen to a podcast, audiobook or music you enjoy while working out. If your exercise takes you outside, you also get an added boost of vitamin D which has been proven to help you feel happier too.
Moms are used to helping others, and many of us have a hard time reaching out and asking for help. However, when a friend asks, we are the first to offer assistance. Give others a chance to help you. Set up a carpool so you are not always the one playing taxi with the kids for their after-school activities, accept help when offered or trade babysitting with a friend so you can have a date night. If your significant other offers to help out around the house, let him, even if it isn’t exactly the way you would have done it. Accepting help can be a big relief and can give moms the chance for some much needed time to focus on themselves.
Treat yourself Moms work hard. Allow yourself a treat such as a coffee, a new outfit, a fresh haircut, a pedicure or a sweet on occasion. Giving yourself permission to treat yourself can boost your mood and acknowledge that you work hard and deserve something special. You don’t have to spend a lot of time or money, it’s more about putting yourself first in a small way.
Talk to someone Sometimes we just need someone to talk to about our feelings and what is going on in our lives, someone with whom to share the details of everyday life. One way moms make themselves a priority is to find a friend or family member to chat with on a regular basis. A counselor can be a great person to talk to If you have a lot to work through, have dealt with depression or feel like you could use some unbiased advice.
Take up a hobby What do you love to do? Many moms find they have forgotten the hobbies they used to enjoy prior to kids. Make time for yourself and your interests. Seek out an old hobby or find a new one—reading, running, sewing, scrapbooking—whatever activity gets you excited is what you need to make time for. Whether you do your hobby with a group of friends or on your own, you will not regret making time for something important to you. It’s not possible to put yourself first all the time when you are a busy mom, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t set aside some time to make yourself the priority. As your mental and physical health and wellbeing thrive, you will be a better mom overall. Sarah Lyons is a part-time freelance writer and full-time mom. She lives in Olathe with her family.
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fun guide table of contents
41 diy kid-safe firecrackers 42 family travel success 44 fun-tastic summer list 47 family rules to break this summer 48 red, white and blue pops 49 independence feast 50 water play 52 summer safety 54 landmarks in kc 55 ice cream 56 outdoor activities
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CRAFTCORNER
Materials needed:
diy kid-safe firecrackers
W
hat’s not to love about the Fourth of July? We get to be with our family and friends, savor the food and, of course, enjoy the fireworks! Encourage your kids to stay safe and have fun with these DIY kid-safe firecrackers!
• Toilet paper roll • Balloon • Ruler • Markers • Tape • Scissors • Construction paper x2
Step one: Measure and cut out a rectangle from your construction paper to the size of 3.75 inches by 6 inches. Step two: Decorate the cut out piece of construction paper. Step three: Cut the end off a balloon and pull the balloon tightly over the end of the empty toilet paper roll.
Step four: Wrap construction paper over the toilet paper roll and balloon. Tape in place.
Step five: Set aside the firecracker launcher. Step six: Tear as many little pieces of paper as you want for your firecracker. I would encourage making way more confetti than you think you will use, as it will go fast! Step seven: Place paper inside of launcher and pull balloon to set off your firecracker! Janelle Cumro-Sultzer lives in Overland Park with her husband, son and two dogs. Janelle is a former health care executive director and is a mediator in Kansas, helping families in conflict. Janelle loves to focus on learning through play and getting messy with crafts.
DIY Fourth of July Garland
Paper Strawberries
Ice Cube Paintings
For TONS more great craft projects, log onto KCParent.com! kcparent.com july 2020
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family travel
SUCCESS W
ith summer in full swing,
Make a list. Seriously. Lists are an absolute
Pack a mini medicine cabinet
you’re probably already
must when planning a family trip. Make a list for your personal bag (and your spouse’s), one for each of your kids’ bags, and any other bags you plan to pack. That way, you’ll know just what you need to bring in each bag and won’t forget to pack it!
with all your essential medications (something for headaches, tummy aches, etc.). You never know what may ail a family member on a trip, so having your needed medications on hand rather than having to run to a store allows you to avoid another pitstop.
suffering from vacation brain.
Daydreams of sunshine and beaches, mountainous terrain, and a week or two of family time away from home stir your excitement daily. Even with the pandemic, a vacation is still possible, just be sure to use common sense and follow any guidelines. Here are some tips that will surely answer your questions and help make your family trip easier and more enjoyable.
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When packing, consider putting plastic shopping bags into your suitcase to use for storing soggy bathing suits or keeping your smartphone free of sand at the beach. They take up next to no space inside backpacks or suitcases.
If you’ll be visiting a beach on your trip, remember the seaside necessities: sunscreen, beach bag, beach towels, blankets, sunglasses, beach toys, swim diapers, etc.
Plan out your travel entertainment ahead of time to avoid
Upon waking each day, be sure to let your kids know what you’ll be doing that
a headache later. Make a lengthy list of ideas for when your little ones whine about being bored. Ideas include coloring books, crayons/markers, books and handheld games.
day, even if nothing is on the agenda.
Traveling the friendly skies?
don’t plan any midday activities so kids
Have everyone wear shoes that are easy to take off for security. Also, let little ones run around a bit before boarding the plane. Bring a variety of snacks in resealable bags so kids have different goodies to choose from, and pack small juice boxes.
can rest. If your kids take baths before
If someone’s mood isn’t jiving
Make road trips easier for
by the pool instead.
everyone. If you’ll be traveling by car with kids, don’t try to drive the long distance all at once. Take breaks. Kids will be miserable in car seats for more than six hours, so break it up by staying a night or two at a hotel depending on the length of the drive. Stop at local attractions and playgrounds along the way, too. Everyone will be much happier!
Pack blankets and pillows so kids can nap more comfortably in the car, and don’t forget the portable DVD player and some favorite movies!
Book a hotel room that has a kitchen. It’s a lifesaver, time-saver and money-saver to have a space to make your own meals and a place to store some snacks.
If it’s a free day, let your children decide what to do.
Stick to your normal routine as much as possible. If naptime is at noon,
bedtime, stick to that schedule as well.
Looking for a quick getaway but don’t want to go too far? Check out KCParent.com for tips on family vacations to the following locations:
plans. Disney World will still be there tomorrow. It might be a great day to relax
If your children are past the napping stage, it’s still important to plan some downtime each day. Everyone
Fort Worth
will benefit from a midday siesta, so take some time out to nap or at least have some quiet time before embarking on your next adventure.
Going to the beach? Swim at lifeguard-protected beaches, stay within the designated swim area and never swim
Sioux Falls
alone. Inexperienced swimmers and young children should wear U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets in and around the water. Don’t use any other type of flotation device.
Most importantly, no matter where you travel, have an emergency plan. Be sure to keep phone numbers or important information on you in case of an
If not, be sure to rent one. Little ones get tired after walking a lot and will need a place to rest their legs.
emergency. Make phone number bracelets
Talk to your children when you
version can also be created and clipped
Go to a local grocery store and buy snacks and lunches. Pick up some items to make sandwiches, and don’t forget other snacks, like fresh fruit and veggies and chips. This will keep you from having to go to restaurants or ordering room service all the time, and it will save you money.
GREAT FAMILY TRIPS!
with the plans for the day, change your
If you have a stroller, bring it.
reach your destination and hotel. Explain what you’ll be doing on your trip and set expectations.
fun guide
Colorado Springs
your children can wear when going out and about in case anyone gets lost. A keychain onto your child’s jacket or clothing. Summer vacations are a time to unwind
Flint HIlls AND MUCH, MUCH MORE!
from all your day-to-day responsibilities and craziness. They’re a wonderful way to enjoy quality time together as a family. Remember that it’s okay if things don’t go according to plan. With kids, stuff just happens, and then it becomes a memory that everyone can laugh at later on. Have fun and take a lot of pictures! at
Kansas City mom and author Gina Klein is a true believer in making a list of what to pack weeks before pulling out the suitcases. This gives her time to add things she may have previously forgotten and remove things she can easily purchase at her destination. kcparent.com july 2020
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FUN-TASTIC summer list KC is cool all the time, but especially in the summertime! Enjoy the best of summer with our Fun-tastic Summer List!
at ephant Expedition • Visit the all-new El o. While the Kansas City Zo re to visit you’re there, be su bear, the stingrays, polar penguins, kangaroos, tigers, d giraffes. monkeys, camels an al d watching at a loc • Spend the day bir Visit KCParent.com nature area or park. aces,” then search and click “Going Pl orite places. “Nature” for our fav Legacy Park in ent a free canoe at •R e you can practice Lee’s Summit, wher all pond. paddling in their sm n ture Park on the law • Explore the Sculp s Museum of Art. of the Nelson-Atkin psicles and enjoy ake homemade Po •M ckyard. them in your own ba rk. e roses at Loose Pa • Stop and smell th to a match of disc hallenge the kids •C rk, Waterworks golf at Rosedale Pa rk. Park or Swope Pa city’s hing at one of the • Spend the day fis . l on KCParent.com) best fishing spots (al Longview Lake, We especially enjoy ed Lake, James A. Re Shawnee Mission and Lake Jacomo. Wildlife Preserve
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• Participate in on e of the library’s summer reading programs. We ha ve the scoop on KCPa rent.com. •P articipate in hand s-on history at the National Wor ld War I Museum and Memorial and ge t a spectacular vie w of the city atop Liber ty Memorial. • Play at the batti ng cages at Parad ise Park or ride the go -karts, try to esca pe from their Exit Ro om, play a round of miniature golf, en joy arcades and ro ck wall climbing, laser tag or the Childre n’s Edutainment Cent er. • Engrave a padloc k showing love fo r your spouse or family an d lock it at Kansas City’s own love lo cks bridge (Red Br idge at Minor Park). •P ick berries, peac hes and apples at local u-pick farms. We have a compl ete U-Pick Guide on KCparent.com. • Spend a day shop ping at the Legend s Outlets. • Ride bikes at on e of KC’s best bike trails (all on KCParent.co m). Our favorites include Trolley Tr ail, Indian Creek and Longview Lake. Yo u can rent bikes affordably with Bi keKC.
fun guide e
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kcparent.com july 2020
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e at local farmers • Buy fresh produc Parent.com) markets (all on KC you’ve never and try something s it is a new had before. Perhap lsa t (flavored honey, sa homemade produc e cip or veggie, or a re or mix), a new fruit the local vendors. inspired by one of town history of our down • Learn about the ley or bike at Berk bridges as you walk e trail offers amazing Riverfront Park. Th over the Missouri views of the bridges the telling the history of River and placards es. ecture of the bridg river and the archit d County Museum an • Visit the Johnson e er tric House wh explore the All-Elec at life was like for you can imagine wh s. great-grandparent grandparents and FREE etcar and visit the • Ride the KC Stre e at Union Station, KC Rail Experienc of at the Central play chess on the ro st a yummy treat at Library and taste-te r Bring our Streetca City Market. TIP: your trip! Scavenger Hunt on ooter and explore • Rent an electric sc u or Midtown that yo parts of Downtown ile. haven’t seen in a wh ure e hunting for treas o on an adventur •G geocaching or at new places with letterboxing.
e of Kansas or • Go camping at on unds. Missouri’s campgro n at Shawnee Missio ent a pedal boat •R mo. Lake or Lake Jaco art at the Nerman • Marvel at modern mission is free. Museum, where ad urnal recording • Keep a nature jo and weather the wildlife, plants mmer. you observe this su
•S pend a Saturday in the West Bottoms, a perfect excursion to get creative juices flowing as you explore antique shops, boutiques and retailers in KC’s most eclectic shopping district. •V isit the animals at Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead. •N urture your creative bug at Ceramics Cafe. •S targaze at Powell Observatory, home to the Ruisinger telescope, one of the largest telescopes available for public viewing in a five-state area. •P articipate in hands-on science at Science City, catch a planetarium show at Gottlieb Planetarium, watch a movie at the Extreme Screen and explore the Body Worlds exhibit at Union Station. • Stroll through Kauffman Memorial Gardens. • Explore Downtown Kansas City and take photos with public art on display. •P icnic near a Kansas City area waterfall. You’ll find them all on KCParent.com. • Get an amazing view of the city from the River Observation Tower as you gaze out over the vast Missouri River. •V isit the National Museum of Toys and Miniatures and reminisce with your children about your own favorite toys. Then, treat the kids to a game night when you return home. •P retend you live in the wild, wild West at Antioch Park.
Kristina Light loves exploring her hometown with her four daughters.
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family rules to
BREAK
W ice cream for dinner?!
fun guide
this summer
e’re in the thick of summer in Kansas City! Although maintaining some level of normalcy and sanity in your home throughout the summer is important, it’s also okay to break a few of your rules. As the family rule maker, sit down and think about your current rules and then carefully decide on some you’re willing to give up for a few months. Keep your family’s summer necessities in mind as you think things through and come up with a list you’d like everyone to follow. In the meantime, here are some helpful suggestions on what rules to ditch, along with some super fun ideas to replace them to make your summer one your kids will never forget!
• Bye-bye early bedtime! Because they don’t have to wake up early to catch the bus and head off to school, why not let them stay up an extra hour? Even if it’s just time for them to hang out in their bedrooms and read, it’s a big deal to kids to have that extra hour.
• Ice cream…for dinner? Why not? Take a break from cooking, let loose and allow the kids to eat junk food for dinner! Or simply flip-flop the norm and try having dessert before dinner. Kids love nights like this, and to be honest, you probably will too!
• Put away the alarm clock. Unless they must be somewhere, there’s no need for the kids to get up early. Let them sleep in, especially after they’ve exhausted themselves from long days of summer play. This gives you a chance to enjoy a peaceful morning while they’re snoring away.
• Try a new bedtime routine! Surprise your kids with a nighttime pajama walk around the neighborhood after they’re completely ready for bed. An impromptu walk will be a fun adventure, and if you do this at least once a week, it will become a lifetime memory.
• Battle the whines of summer boredom. Developmentally, boredom is important. It forces creativity, which is great for kids’ minds. Work with your children on a preplanned list of things to do. Be prepared to stay by their side at the beginning of the activity, especially with littler kids, even if you’re just sitting nearby.
• Back down on your own screen time. Your technology habits heavily influence those of your kids. Try breaking down exactly how much time you spend with your children each day, one-on-one, without screens. It might surprise you just how little you get. So put your phone away while spending time with them and enjoy every minute having fun together.
• Keep a loose summer schedule. It’s good for everyone! Kids cannot be expected to entertain themselves for 12 hours a day (especially without screens), so relax your schedule. Give your kids possible projects or activities at the start of the week and let them choose. Board games with Mommy from 11:00 to noon, followed by lunch until 1:00 and quiet play or crafting time from 1:00 to 2:00.
However you plan to schedule your summer, get your kids excited about all the things they get to do, such as swimming, ball games with neighbors, riding bikes, playing in the sprinkler, visiting amusement parks and more. And remember: Playing outside helps their brains! Scientists say that the sights and sounds of nature peacefully stimulate the brain so that it no longer craves the hyperstimulation of electronics. In fact, research shows improvement in attention spans after time spent outside. So, get those kiddos outside this summer!
put away the alarm clock!
Gina Klein is a nature-loving mom and author who resides in Kansas City and loves to play outside as much as possible with her two daughters and husband. kcparent.com july 2020
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cool down with patriotic frozen pops 48
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The perfect treat to celebrate and escape the heat this summer
W
Family Features
ith backyard barbecues, pool parties and patriotic celebrations in full swing leading up to the Fourth of July, kids are constantly on the go with summertime activities. For long summer days in the sun, a cool treat is the perfect way to help keep kids energized for all of their summertime activities. These homemade red, white and blueberry frozen pops are the perfect patriotic summer snack for active kids. Made with wholesome ingredients like fruit and milk, they’re a great way for moms to add quality nutrition to snack time with flavors their kids already love. Plus, with milk as an ingredient, this delicious recipe is a creative way to help the whole family get added nutrients they need, like calcium and protein. Whether celebrating Independence Day or relaxing following an afternoon in the sun, the whole family can enjoy this tasty and nutritious summertime snack. For more inspiration and recipes to serve up summer fun, visit MilkLife.com.
Red, White and Blueberry Frozen Pops Servings: 10 1/2 c. granola 2 t. brown rice syrup 3/4 c. reduced fat milk 6 oz. fat-free vanilla Greek yogurt 1 c. whole strawberries, tops removed water 1 1/4 c. blueberries, divided
In small bowl, stir granola and brown rice syrup until combined. Using end of wooden spoon, press approximately 3/4 tablespoon granola into each frozen pop mold. Granola should be packed tightly into bottom of molds. In another small bowl, stir together milk and yogurt; set aside. Using small food processor or highpowered blender, puree strawberries until smooth. Stir water into each puree so they are pourable, about 2 tablespoons each, more if necessary. Set aside 30 blueberries and puree remainder. Add water, as needed, to make pourable. To layer pops, start by pouring, piping or syringing 1 tablespoon milk and yogurt mixture into each mold, covering granola layer. Put each mold in freezer until firm, at least 1 hour. Layer 1 tablespoon strawberry puree on top of frozen yogurt layer in each mold. Cover top of molds with foil, insert sticks and freeze again until solid. Remove foil, add another layer of yogurt and freeze again. For final layer, add 1 tablespoon blueberry puree and 3 blueberries to each mold. Freeze until solid. Keep frozen pops in molds until ready to eat. Run each mold under lukewarm water for approximately 10 seconds to loosen and remove frozen pops. Pops can be made one day in advance.
TIP: For clean lines between frozen yogurt layers, use small syringe.
TASTYTREATS
fun guide
independence feast What signifies liberty more than the stars and stripes of the American flag? Red, white and blue of course! Celebrate your freedom this fourth with these patriotic eats. Here are four healthy ways to embrace the three most precious patriotic colors.
RED Watermelon
Potatoes
Tomatoes
Raspberries
How: Eat by the slice
How: Choose red potatoes for potato salad, or slice and drizzle them with olive oil to create crispy potato chips.
How: Top a grilled burger with tomatoes. Or create a salsa with chopped tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice; serve with pita chips.
How: Fresh dipped in melted dark and white chocolate.
Its healthy goodness lies in its hydrating power.
Their healthy goodness lies in skins loaded with fiber, B vitamins, iron and potassium.
Their healthy goodness lies in their fiber content.
Their healthy goodness lies in big boosts of vitamins A and C.
WHITE Tofu
Yogurt
Cheese
Pita
How: Grill tofu and serve on a whole-wheat bun, or bite-size it and serve on skewers with cheese cubes, tomatoes and black olives.
How: Stir plain or Greek yogurt with mixed berries and top with crunchy granola.
How: Peel that mozzarella string, put provolone in sandwich wraps or top crackers with Swiss.
How: Fill a pita bread pocket with grilled chicken, black beans, corn, tomatoes, shredded lettuce, cheese and dressing. Serve pita chips with hummus and salsa.
Its healthy goodness lies in calcium and protein.
Its healthy goodness lies in vitamin D.
Its healthy goodness lies in protein and fiber.
Its healthy goodness lies in carbohydrates.
BLUE Blueberries
Blackberries
Grapes
Corn
How: Serve fresh over vanilla pudding.
How: Mix with yogurt, milk and bananas for a creamy smoothie.
How: Munch on fresh or frozen Concord blue grapes for a crunchy snack, or create a jam
How: Blue corn is featured in blue tortilla chips.
Its healthy goodness lies in vitamin C.
Its healthy goodness lies in fiber.
Their healthy goodness lies in antioxidants.
Its healthy goodness lies in a higher protein content than white corn.
With these colorful eats, you can keep your KC family nutritiously fed at a spirited Independence Day feast! Amy Hundley is a registered dietitian nutritionist, licensed in both Kansas and Missouri, and a published freelance nutrition writer. She is currently practicing as a clinical RD and has been a resident of Olathe since early childhood. kcparent.com july 2020
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too H O T to handle? water play at home
T
he heatwaves of summer have officially arrived. Beat the heat with these fun ideas to keep your kids cooled off and occupied all summer long.
• Sponge Balls Create sponge balls by simply cutting sponges lengthwise into 4 pieces each. Then wrap a rubber band around the middle of the stacked sponges and fluff into a ball shape. These are perfect for a wet game of dodge ball!
• Ice Block Treasure Hunt
• Pouring Station
Freeze water into a block of ice with some of your child’s favorite toys inside. Ideas for treasures include rubber balls, Shopkins, plastic animals, Legos and cars. Once the block of ice is frozen, give your kids excavating tools you can find around the house, such as spray bottles, measuring cups, forks and spoons, a syringe, toy hammer and screwdriver, and warm water. Now comes the fun part: Let your kids explore and dig for their toys. You will be surprised how long they will stay busy with this activity, and it will keep them cool too!
This is a fun activity for toddlers and super easy to set up. Place several different sized containers in a large plastic bin. The containers could be measuring cups, drinking cups, bowls or anything else you have around the house. Fill them up with varying amounts of water, and watch as your toddler fills the different containers with water. For a little extra fun and learning, add food coloring to some of the containers and watch your toddler mix the colors and be amazed as they change. Add in bubbles for even more fun!
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fun guide • Fill the Bucket Game
• Hose Tag
For this game, each team will need a bucket of water, sponge and container to squeeze the water into. Each player will take turns getting the sponge wet and running to the empty container to squeeze the water from the sponge into their container. The first team to fill up their container wins!
Play host tag just like regular tag, but the person who is “it” has the hose! Whoever gets sprayed, is “it” next.
• Sprinkler Splashes Younger children will love running through your sprinkler on a hot day. For a little wet and wild fun for the older kids, just place the sprinkler under the trampoline or swing set for an afternoon.
• Water Gun Fight For the little ones, use small plastic squirt guns. For the older kids, bring out the Super Soaker guns! A traditional water gun fight is fun, but you can also create targets to practice shooting or work together to spray a beach ball across the lawn with the water guns.
• Water Limbo Play the traditional game of limbo with a little twist. Use the stream from the hose as the limbo stick and watch as everyone gets wet!
• Duck, Duck, Splash In this modified version of Duck, Duck, Goose, the child who is “it” will walk around with a cup of water. When they get to the person they want to tag, they yell “splash” and dump the cup of water onto that’s child’s head.
• Wash the Car Put the kids to work without their realizing it! Get out the soap, water, buckets and sponges and wash the car together as a family. Let the younger kids wash their bikes and play cars.
• Slip and Slide
• Water Blob
The slip and slide never disappoints. My daughter and her cousin spend hours on their slip and slide. If you don’t have one, it’s easy to make one with items you have around the house.
Make your own water blob. It’s like a giant outdoor waterbed and keeps the kids busy for hours. Visit HomemadeToast.com for instructions. You can also find these to purchase at several retailers including Target, Kohls and Amazon.
• Beach Day for Barbie My daughter loves bringing her Barbies outside to play in the water and have a beach day. The Barbies are definitely not the only ones to get wet!
• Water Baseball
• Water Pinata
• Water Balloon Catch
Fill up several water balloons and tie them from a tree branch with string. Blindfold the kids and let them take turns hitting the balloon with a plastic baseball bat.
Have one person hold a bucket above his head to try to catch the water balloons as the rest of the players try to throw them into the bucket. Take turns and everyone will be soaked in no time.
• Make Popsicles
Regan Lyons is a freelance writer who lives in St. Joseph, MO, with her husband, 5-year-old daughter and soon-to-be-newborn baby girl.
Nothing cools you off quite like a Popsicle on a hot day. Make your own using ice cube trays and craft sticks, or pick up a mold at the store. Mix in fruit to make these treats a healthier option.
• Water Balloon Fight A good old-fashioned water balloon fight is always a blast! To make a lot of water balloons in 60 seconds, invest in Zuru’s Bunch of Balloons. This allows you to rapid fill 100 water balloons in just one minute!
Let kids practice their batting swing with water balloons instead of baseballs!
Water play is good for more than just cooling off in the summer! It can also help children develop gross and fine motor skills, as well as assist with social and emotional development, language, creativity and imagination.
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Follow these tips to make sure you and your kids enjoy nothing but fun in the sun this summer.
summertime safety
S
chool is out, and the lazy days of summer finally have arrived, but did you know summer is referred to as “trauma season” by most doctors and nurses? All of the time spent outdoors can lead to many different injuries. Follow these tips to make sure you and your kids enjoy nothing but fun in the sun this summer.
water safety Swimming is a fun way for the kids to cool off from the summer heat, but it also can be dangerous if important safety measures aren’t taken. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, drowning is the single leading cause of injury-related death among children ages 1-4. Many injuries happen when children unexpectedly access water, which is why the AAP says the most important rule is to make sure all homes with a pool have a four-sided fence that completely surrounds the pool and isolates it from the house. Parents also should never leave children alone while near water, including bath tubs, pools, spas or
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other open water. Inexperienced swimmers need to wear life jackets, but do not rely solely on life jackets for protection. Enrolling your kids in swimming lessons at an early age also can help keep them safe in the water. Research by the AAP shows that swim lessons are beneficial for children starting at age 1 and could possibly lower drowning rates. Check out your local YMCA or aquatic park to enroll your child in lessons.
sun safety Kids spend hours a day soaking up the sun in the summertime, but before they head outside, make sure they have on sunscreen. Sunscreen of at least SPF 15 should be applied 30 minutes before going outdoors. Reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating. Keeping your kids covered up is another way to defend them from the sun’s harmful rays. Clothing with tightly woven fabrics, wide brimmed hats and sunglasses are additional ways to protect your kids.
fun guide heat exposure Warm weather means outdoor sporting practices, games and tournaments begin. Just keep in mind those dog days of summer can very quickly cause heat exhaustion and dehydration. Signs of heat exhaustion include paleness, headache, dizziness, vomiting and nausea. Ways to prevent heat exhaustion and dehydration include staying hydrated, moving activities indoors during extremely high temperatures, wearing light colored and lightweight clothing and taking breaks every 20 minutes in high heat. If you fear your child has heat exhaustion, get him indoors, apply cool towels to his skin and get him hydrated immediately.
bug bites Steer your children clear of pesky bug bites this summer by using insect repellent containing DEET, which repels both ticks and mosquitos. The AAP and CDC recommend children older than 2 months use 10 percent to 30 percent DEET. However, DEET should not be used on infants younger than 2 months of age. Just make sure to wash off the repellents when the kids come back inside.
protect from poison ivy, oak and sumac We all love a family hike, but there’s nothing worse than coming home with poison ivy. Up to 85 percent of people are sensitive to the oil from poison ivy, poison oak and poison sumac plants. To keep your kids safe from this itchy rash, show them what the plants look like so they can do their best to avoid them. Also, make sure to bathe your kids immediately after being near an area with these plants. All clothing also will need to be washed in hot water and detergent, because the plant oil can stay active and continue to cause a rash after the first exposure. If your child is exposed for the first time, she should see her pediatrician. Treatments include hydrocortisone cream, cool compress, oatmeal baths and Benadryl. Regan Lyons is a freelance writer who lives in St. Joseph, MO, with her husband and 4-year-old daughter. As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns.
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H H H Patriotic H H H
Landmarks in Kansas City
A
s you celebrate Independence Day this year, check out these local landmarks that are especially patriotic.
H Kansas City’s Two Little Statues of Liberty: You can find two 8 ½-foot-tall replicas of Lady Liberty in Kansas City, MO. One is located across from Research Hospital at Meyer Boulevard & Prospect Avenue. The other is on the lawn of North Kansas City High School. Both were installed as part of a program led by the Boy Scouts of America to place about 200 statues around the United States for their 40th anniversary in 1950.
H Replica Liberty Bell: To celebrate America’s bicentennial in 1976, a replica of the Liberty Bell and a bicentennial flag were placed at home in front of the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library.
H George Washington Statue: Located in Washington Square Park (Pershing
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Road & Grand) near Crown Center, the 16-foot-tall, 11,000-pound statue depicts General George Washington astride his horse at Valley Forge during the American Revolution.
H Abraham Lincoln and his Son Tad Statue: Located on the south plaza of the Kansas City, MO, City Hall, the 10-foottall, 2,500-pound statue shows President Lincoln sitting in a chair holding a book and gazing at his son Tad.
H The Eagle Statue: The bronze statue depicts an eagle with a wingspan of 14 feet and weighs 2,000 pounds. The sculpture originally stood in a courtyard of a Japanese temple as part of their exhibit at the Louisiana Purchase Exhibition, also known as the St. Louis World’s Fair in 1904. The statue was purchased by the J.C. Nichols Company and donated to Kansas City where it made its home at Ward Parkway & 67th Street.
fun guide
I Scream, You Scream, We All Scream for Ice Cream! Nothing satisfies better than an ice cream cone after a long, hot day. Cool off this summer with these sweet treats from our favorite ice cream shops in Kansas City!
Freezing Moo 11885 W. 95th St., Overland Park 66214 4535 W. 119th St., Leawood 66209 20140 W. 153rd St., Olathe 66062 1941 W. Foxwood Dr., Raymore 64083 699 NW Blue Parkway, Lee’s Summit 64086 Freezing Moo is not your typical ice cream shop. They offer handmade ice cream rolls, an East Asian method of ice cream production. The rolls are made with milk and poured over an ice grill. Bring the kids to watch their dream dessert being made especially for them. Kids love when they write their names inside the rolls using the syrup of their choice. Finally, they will get to finish their creation off with a choice from three of the shop’s delicious toppings. The best part for parents about Freezing Moo is the absence of chemicals and preservatives in the ice cream, so you can feel good knowing you’re treating your children to natural, handmade ice cream!
Betty Rae’s 7140 Wornall Rd., Kansas City, MO 64114 412 Delaware St., Kansas City, MO 64105 You won’t want to miss a stop at Betty Rae’s this summer, selected by TripAdvisor as one of the top 50 “Ice Cream Shops Worth Traveling For.” This ice cream shop, owned by a husband and wife team, offers 25+ house-made ice cream flavors crafted from farm-fresh ingredients. Your kids will love trying a scoop of their many flavors that range from traditional strawberry, chocolate and vanilla bean to one-of-a-kind creations like root bear, cereal milk, razz blue, banana split and strawberry rhubarb crisp. The menu also features ice cream sandwiches, sundaes and floats that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. They even offer boozey floats for adult customers, which would make this a fun stop during date night.
Glace Artisan Ice Cream 4960 Main St., Kansas City, MO 64112 Glace Artisan Ice Cream is made from hormone-free Midwest milk and all natural ingredients. But the best part about Glace? Their creative signature flavors! Try a scoop of goat cheese and honey, cream cheese, earl grey tea, crème brulee and many more. They create new flavors every week, so you’ll always find something new to try. You can even bring the fun home by purchasing their pints at several grocery stores in Kansas City. Regan Lyons is a freelance writer who lives in St. Joseph, MO, with her husband and daughter. kcparent.com july 2020
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Get Out! Indoor activities to take outside
eat dinner on the porch or deck You don’t have to grill hot dogs and hamburgers to eat dinner outside. Eat bowls of spaghetti on the porch. Cook your favorite dish inside just to bring it outside with the whole family.
have an outdoor scavenger hunt An elementary school teacher gave me the idea to have a scavenger hunt involving letters of the alphabet. Find things outside that start with different letters of the alphabet. Fun, free printables can be found online (My favorite printable worksheet I’ve stumbled across is from BroughtToYouByMom.com).
camp in the backyard You’re close enough to still use your bathroom or make a cup of coffee, yet one with nature. Set up a tent in the backyard even if you don’t spend the whole night out there. Collect sticks to make a “pretend” fire, identify bugs and birds, and collect rocks and leaves.
plan a picnic Visit your favorite park, walking trail, the zoo, or sit in your own backyard with a giant picnic blanket or table or tent. Even if you stay home, fill a picnic basket with your favorite nonperishable food items.
T
throw an outdoor shaving cream party he best moments of summer are usually the ones spent outdoors. If you’ve been looking forward to warm temperatures
and sunny skies, you’re probably ready to take all your favorite activities (and energetic kids) outside the house. What are some particularly fun ways to spend your time outside when you feel like you’ve done it all? What are favorite activities you don’t have to keep indoors? I sought fresh suggestions from parents, teachers, blogs and a few of my favorite websites to come up with a quick list of ways you and your kiddos can soak up as much summer fun as possible.
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During quarantine, I (along with every other parent) constantly tried to think of new, innovative ways to keep my child entertained with minimal mess to clean up. We decided to try playing with shaving cream outside on our deck. We drew letters and pictures on the table and washed everything when we were done. Pro tip: Sometimes we even added food coloring!
play with play dough outside When molding play dough got tedious and messy in the house, sometimes we took it outside to use at my son’s little table under his umbrella. (Play dough dries fast outside, so don’t forget to clean up as soon as they get bored!)
mold sand on the deck Kinetic sand is almost as messy as slime (almost), so I’ve found it’s best to take outside in a Rubbermaid or Tupperware container with a lid. Add measuring cups or toys, and your kid will be entertained for at least half an hour while soaking up vitamin D.
fun guide
photograph nature Let your kids use your phone camera to snap shots of different types of wildlife on the walking trail or in the backyard.
read on the deck It’s simple, yet meaningful: Snuggle up with your kids on the deck or front porch and read together. Grab snacks, drinks and a picnic blanket. Reading may evoke your love of story-telling. Share your own stories or make stories up. Talk about your favorite memories together. A simple activity might turn into one of your child’s favorite memories.
make lemonade Lemonade is the ultimate summer drink, so try making a pitcher outside with the kids instead of in the kitchen. Gather ingredients and supplies on a table either in your driveway or on the deck. One of my son’s teachers emailed us a list of ideas at the end of the school year to help the kids enjoy their summer. Here are a few of my favorites.
summer fun at a glance:
• Go on a hike. • Build a fort. • Try cloud-watching. • Check out books from the library to read outside. • Play in the sprinkler. • Wash your car or bicycle. • Visit the zoo. • Draw with sidewalk chalk. • Eat watermelon (this makes a great sensory activity). • Go to the farmers market.
Once you’ve exhausted all our suggestions, chat with fellow parents, email your child’s teacher or maybe even stop by the library for a new set of ideas. Emily Morrison is a freelance writer, former copy editor, full-time mommy and Disney fanatic who lives in Independence with her husband, 4-year-old son and two dogs.
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Visit Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm Thursdays in July for Family Fun Nights from 6:00 to 8:00. Each week offers a different theme and activities. Mahaffie.org
On July 10, enjoy the Summer Movie Series at the National World War I Museum. Bring a blanket and snacks and see 2019’s blockbuster, 1917! Note, movie is rated R. TheWorldWar.org
Head to Downtown Lee’s Summit July 10 for the Sidewalk Sale. Take advantage of great summer savings and see all that downtown merchants have to offer! DowntownLS.org
Atkins-Johnson Farm presents Story Time at the Farm on July 22 at 10:00. Join MCPL storytellers for a story time that includes singalongs and a featured farmthemed story. Gladstone.Mo.Us
July 25 brings Bark in the Park at Hitt Park at 9:00. Bring your canine friends to the park to enjoy a morning of fun! Bring Frisbees, ball and leash and enjoy open play. 816.537.6969
As businesses begin to reopen, we’re thrilled to bring back our popular calendar of events! However, with things still changing and evolving, be sure to confirm each event listed to make sure it is still occurring before heading out. For the most up-to-date listings, visit the online calendar at KCParent.com.
1 Wednesday Porch Parade Thru July 4, Lenexa. A new twist on annual parade. Visit Lenexa.com/parade for a map of locally decorated porches and then drive through town and enjoy! Lenexa.com Farmstead Opening Day 9:00, Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead. Opening day for the farmstead! Bring the kids out to see the animals. 913.897.2360 Little Leapers 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
Preschool Gymnastics 10:15, East Lawrence Recreation Center. Bring the kids to run, tumble and burn off energy. $5 (cash only) per child ages 1-5 with parent. LawrenceKS.org.
Fourth of July in Weston 10:00, Downtown Weston. Enjoy a hometown parade, games, kids’ activities, pie baking contest, family events raffle and fireworks. WestonMo.com
Time Travelers 10:00, Shawnee Town 1929. Step back in time to the 1920s with family activities in this living history program. Today’s theme: Down on the Farm. ShawneeTown.org
Independence Day: 1860s Style 10:00, Mahaffie. Experience what life and holidays were like in the 1870s! Family activities and family fun! Mahaffie.org
3 Friday
VIP Event 11:00, Incredible Pizza. We’re throwing a BIG party on the 4th of July, and you’re invited! Enjoy a free hour of unlimited activities and video game play. IncrediblePizza.com
First Fridays 5:00, Crossroads Arts District. Galleries and shops remain open later for the first Friday of each month. KCCrossroads.org Independence Day Celebration 9:15, Baldwin City. Enjoy the fireworks portion of the show! The display will be shot off at the golf course. BaldwinRec.org
4 Saturday
Salute to the Union 6:00, Merritt Lake (Fort Leavenworth). DJ, kids activities, refreshments and more. Bring blankets to enjoy music and fireworks! Leavenworth.armymwr.com Fireworks Show 9:45, College Boulevard Activity Center. Enjoy the annual City of Olathe fireworks show. Arrive early and be prepared for high traffic. OlatheKS.org
2 Thursday
HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY!
5 Sunday
Elephant Expedition 10:00, Kansas City Zoo. The new elephant exhibition is open at the zoo. Reserve a time online and plan a visit with the family. KansasCItyZoo.org
Independence Day 9:00, Missouri Town 1855. Patriotic speeches, children’s games, period cooking, dancing, militia marches and more! 816.503.4860
Stars and Stripes 5K 7:30, Prairiefire. Event features a fast course, great event shirts, large finisher medals, post event snacks, a kids run and much more. StarsAndStripes5K.com
NEW THIS SUMMER / From chemistry to construction, toys have prepared generations of kids to pursue careers in STEM fields. Discover how these toys, once marketed primarily to boys, have evolved over time to encourage all children to explore science, technology, engineering, and mathematics through play. /toyandminiaturemuseum @toyandminiaturemuseum @toyminiature /toyminiaturemuseum /toy-and-miniature-museum-of-kansas-city
THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF TOYS AND MINIATURES 5235 OAK STREET, KANSAS CITY, MO 64112 816.235.8000 TOYANDMINIATUREMUSEUM.ORG kcparent.com july 2020
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KC Northern Train Rides Noon, Line Creek Park. Ride restored trains around a half-mile track in the park. $.75/ride. KCNRR.com Music in the Park 6:00, Rotary Park. You and your family can enjoy a relaxing evening outdoors with free, live musical entertainment. Bring a picnic! BlueSpringsGov.com
6 Monday Kidscape Summer Adventures Thru Friday, Johnson County Museum. This week’s theme is Farm and One-Room Schoolhouse. Enjoy crafts, activities and more! Pre-reg at 913.831.3359. Jazz on the Square 5:30, Corbin Theatre. The Corbin Theatre presents Jazz on the Square on the first Monday of every month. Free. CorbinTheatre.org
7 Tuesday Farmers Market 9:00, Lenexa Civic Campus. Shop for fresh vegetables, fruit, meat, eggs, baked goods, flowers and more from local merchants. Lenexa.com Kidscape 9:00, Johnson County Museum. Bring the kids to visit the experience where kids time travel to different periods and communities from the region’s past. JCPRD.com/museum
Although many parks offer accessible parking, sidewalks, and bathrooms, few feature playground equipment inclusive to those with special needs. Over the past few years in the Kansas City area, parks and rec departments have addressed this issue by establishing new playgrounds with equipment everyone can enjoy.
Leawood City Park
Pottery Painting 10:00, Ceramic Café. Make a reservation and bring the kids in to create a masterpiece. Creative assistants will guide you through the creative process. CeramicCafeKC.com
Time Travelers 10:00, Shawnee Town 1929. Step back in time to the 1920s with family activities in this living history program. Today’s theme: Down on the Farm. ShawneeTown.org
8 Wednesday
10 Friday
Little Leapers 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
Life on the Frontier 1:00, Alexander Majors Home. Put down the cell phone and step back into time and experience life on the Missouri/Kansas border in the nineteenth century. WornallMajors.org
Prairie Winds Outdoor Concert 1:00, National World War I Museum. Enjoy a collection of patriotic and classical favorites on Kansas City’s front porch. TheWorldWar.org Family Night 4:00, Lenexa Public Market. Get a bite to eat and hang out! Enjoy rotating activities like a balloon artist, specialty vendors and more. 913.477.7516
9 Thursday Elephant Expedition 10:00, Kansas City Zoo. The new elephant exhibition is open at the zoo. Reserve a time online and plan a visit with the family. KansasCItyZoo.org
inclusive parks
Second Weekends Thru Sunday, Downtown Excelsior Springs. A weekend full of fun with arts, music and entertainment! Art demonstrations, featured artists and more. VisitExcelsior.com S’mores Family Geocaching 5:30, Shawnee Mission Park. Search for hidden caches using our GPS devices. Enjoy grilled hotdogs and s’mores. Register at JCPRD.com. Summer Concert 7:00, Macken Park. Bring your own lawn chairs or blankets. Enjoy the music of Elton Dan & the Rock Band. Concessions will be available for purchase. NKC.org
McCoy Park 800 N. Bess Truman Pkwy., Independence Ramps, adaptive swings and smooth flooring ensure this pioneer-themed playground is accessible to all. The park is fenced and contains interactive panels, sensory-rich musical elements and stainless-steel slides.
Shawnee Mission Park Playground
Shawnee Mission Park Playground
10601 Lee Blvd., Leawood With ramped play structures leading to slides and saucer swings, Leawood City Park is the perfect place for children and adults to play together, regardless of physical or mental abilities.
7900 Renner Rd., Shawnee This playground’s star features are its musical toys, colorful pathway and accessible swings and metal slides. In addition to containing wheelchair-friendly ramps and surfaces, the park is fenced, has accessible bathrooms and includes a water mister.
Legacy Park
Sheila Kemper Dietrich Park
1201 NE Legacy Park Dr., Lee’s Summit The Joseph A. Dyke Playground in Legacy Park, located in Shelter 3, contains a wheelchair-friendly playground with a variety of play features, including accessible swings.
E. 27th Street & Gillham Road, Kansas City, MO If you are by Crown Center, be sure to visit this pirate-themed park. Concrete sidewalks and ramps lead to accessible play equipment, including a large sea serpent.
FOR EVEN MORE INCLUSIVE PARKS, VISIT KCPARENT.COM!
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Summer Concert Series 7:00, Grandview Amphitheater. Grab lawn chairs or blankets and head to the Grandview Amphitheater to see local favorite, the Mixtapes. GrandviewAmp.com Summer Movie Series: 1917 9:15, National World War 1 Museum. Bring your favorite blanket and snacks and prepare to go into the trenches with 2019’s blockbuster, 1917! TheWorldWar.org
11 Saturday Children’s Garden Day 9:00, Atkins-Johnson Farm. Visit the farm’s heirloom vegetable and herb garden where families will learn about gardening. Crafts, activities and more. 816.423.4107 Used Curriculum Sale 9:00, JR & CO. Admission is free for all buyers. Come prepared to shop! Bring small bills, a tote or bag to carry purchases and have fun! MidwestHomeschoolers.org Saturday Feeder 3:30 tour, 4:00 feeding, Cedar Cove. Come to see the public feedings of the cats, weather permitting. Tour sizes limited. SaveOurSiberians.org Raytown Live 7:00, Greenspace in Town Center. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy a family-friendly concert with neighbors and friends. Raytown.live
Friday, July 10 9:15 p.m.
12 Sunday Free Afternoon Program 1:30, Prairie Park Nature Center. Free program for the family may include video, slideshow and going outside to enjoy nature. LawrenceKS.org Music in the Park 6:00, Rotary Park. Enjoy a relaxing evening outdoors with free, live musical entertainment. Concessions will be available or bring your own picnic. BlueSpringsGov.com
13 Monday Elephant Expedition 10:00, Kansas City Zoo. The new elephant exhibition is open at the zoo. Reserve a time online and plan a visit with the family. KansasCItyZoo.org Scavenger Hunt Daily, 300 SW 10th Ave, Topeka. Take the family on an interactive scavenger hunt at any time. Explore the art & history of Topeka. VisitTopekaPartnership.com
summer movie series
See the Oscar-winning epic 1917 from Kansas City’s front porch.
Bring food, blankets, chairs for a social distancing movie event on a 23-foot jumbo screen! Learn more at theworldwar.org. kcparent.com july 2020
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14 Tuesday
16 Thursday
18 Saturday
Time Travelers 10:00, Shawnee Town 1929. Step back in time to the 1920s with family activities in this living history program. ShawneeTown.org
Just Between Friends Sale Thru Sunday, Overland Park Convention Center. Get ready for great deals! See ad on pg 61 for free admission! JBFSale.com
Lost Trail Days 9:00, 10:00 or 11:00, Louisburg Cider Mill. Tour includes viewing of soda production run, samples and more! Free; limited spots, must reserve at 913.837.5202.
Fun and Games 10:00, Powell Gardens. Spend your summer playing outside in the gardens, where new games and activities are popping up in this summer exhibit. PowellGardens.org
Preschool Tropical Luau 1:00, Meadowbrook Park Clubhouse. Kids ages 2-5 with an adult will enjoy flowers and fun including a snack and take-home craft. Register at JCPRD.com.
Missouri Life Market Fair 9:00, Powell Gardens. Peruse nearly 100 booths featuring clothing, decor, paintings, photography, sculpture and more. PowellGardens.org
15 Wednesday
17 Friday
Little Leapers 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
Arts and Crafts 1:00, Alexander Majors Home. Explore local history and the environment through fun and unique art projects. Get creative with us! WornallMajors.org
Sidewalk Sale 10:00, Downtown Lee’s Summit. Take advantage of great summer savings and see all that downtown merchants have to offer! DowntownLS.org
Days Out with Frank & Ella 10:00, Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm. Learn about life in the 1860s through activities, crafts and stagecoach rides! Mahaffie.org
Summer Dusk Concert 7:00, Colonnade in the Concourse. Enjoy a live performance by Irrational Consumers. Bring lawn chairs and blankets. 816.483.6964
Family Night 4:00, Lenexa Public Market. Get a bite to eat and hang out! Enjoy rotating activities like a balloon artist, specialty vendors and more. 913.477.7516
Drive-in Movie 8:00, Lenexa Community Center Parking Lot. Enjoy Shrek from your vehicle! The movie can be heard through your car radio or a portable FM receiver. Lenexa.com/movie
WE ARE OPEN!
July activities scheduled include: Independence Day: 1860s Style July 4, Family Fun Nights (Thurs nights) and Days Out with Frank & Ella (Wed/Thurs). Watch our website and Facebook for details.
Saturday Feeder 3:30 tour, 4:00 feeding, Cedar Cove. Come to see the public feedings of the cats, weather permitting. Tour sizes limited. SaveOurSiberians.org
19 Sunday The Great Car Show 9:00, National World War I Museum and Memorial. Join for a day of music, educational displays, food trucks, ride-alongs and… cars! TheGreatCarShow.com
psst... we’re busy whipping up a juicy new issue for
august
7/31/19
• back-toschool guide • medicine cabinet must-haves • finding the best babysitter
1ST SATURDAY EVENTS September 5 16TH ANNUAL HARVEST FESTIVAL October 3rd 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. VISIT FROM ST. NICHOLAS December 12th 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. SHOAL CREEK LIVING HISTORY MUSEUM 7000 Northeast Barry Road Kansas City, MO 64156
1200 Kansas City Road Olathe, Kansas • 913.971.5111 Activities vary by season Visit www.mahaffie.org
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816.792.2655
ShoalCreekLivingHistoryMuseum.com
Miami County Fair Thru July 26, Paola. Youth rodeo, carnival, races, parade, bike derby, horse show, pancake breakfast, concerts and more. MiamiCountyKansasFair.com
Preschool Gymnastics 10:15, East Lawrence Recreation Center. Bring the kids to run, tumble and burn off energy. $5 (cash only) per child ages 1-5 with parent. LawrenceKS.org.
Scavenger Hunt Daily, 300 SW 10th Ave, Topeka. Take the family on an interactive scavenger hunt at any time. Explore the art & history of Topeka. VisitTopekaPartnership.com
20 Monday
22 Wednesday
24 Friday
Kidscape 9:00, Johnson County Museum. Bring the kids to visit the experience where kids time travel to different periods and communities from the region’s past. JCPRD.com/museum
Christmas in July 7:00, Downtown Lee’s Summit. Visit Santa from 8:00 to 10:00 and enjoy live music, giveaways, special vendors and more! DowntownLS.org
Friday in the Park Fridays thru September, 11:30, Macken Park. Enjoy a free summer performance in a beautiful park setting. Music by local bands. NKC.org
Story Time at the Farm 10:00, Atkins-Johnson Farm. Join MCPL storytellers for a story time that includes singalongs and a featured farmthemed story. Gladstone.Mo.Us
Wild Wild West 1:00, Alexander Majors Home. Saddle up for an exploration of the wild west! children can explore social studies topics in an authentic historic setting. WornallMajors.org
Family Night 4:00, Lenexa Public Market. Get a bite to eat and hang out! Enjoy rotating activities like a balloon artist, specialty vendors and more. 913.477.7516
Fourth Friday Art Walk 5:00, Downtown Lee’s Summit. Enjoy a variety of activities, including artist showcases, Music in the Park and even some surprises! DowntownLS.org
Elephant Expedition 10:00, Kansas City Zoo. The new elephant exhibition is open at the zoo. Reserve a time online and plan a visit with the family. KansasCItyZoo.org Scavenger Hunt Daily, 300 SW 10 Ave, Topeka. Take the family on an interactive scavenger hunt at any time. Explore the art & history of Topeka. VisitTopekaPartnership.com th
21 Tuesday Time Travelers 10:00, Shawnee Town 1929. Step back in time to the 1920s with family activities in this living history program. ShawneeTown.org
23 Thursday Bridging the Gender Divide 10:00, National Museum of Toys and Miniatures. Exhibit explores how toys once marketed to boys have evolved over time to encourage all children. 816.235.8000
Movie at the Amp 8:00, Grandview Amphitheater. Grab some friends, lawn chairs and snacks and head to the amphitheater to watch Toy Story 4 under the stars! 816.316.4888 Movie in the Park 8:45, Macken Park. Bring the family, lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy the liveaction version of Aladdin. Packaged concessions available for purchase. 816.300.0545
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25 Saturday
27 Monday
30 Thursday
Farmers Market 8:00, Downtown Lee’s Summit. Visit the website for a list of vendors and pre-order and prepay to make for a smoother shopping experience! DowntownLS.org
Bridging the Gender Divide 10:00, National Museum of Toys ad Miniatures. Exhibit explores how toys once marketed to boys have evolved over time to encourage all children. 816.235.8000
Elephant Expedition 10:00, Kansas City Zoo. The new elephant exhibition is open at the zoo. Reserve a time online and plan a visit with the family. KansasCItyZoo.org
Bark in the Park 9:00, Hitt Park. Bring your canine friends to the park to enjoy a morning of fun! Bring Frisbees, ball and leash and enjoy open play. 816.537.6969 Festival of Butterflies Thru Aug 9, Powell Gardens. See hundreds of colorful, free-flying butterflies and much more during the signature festival. 816.697.2600 Saturday Feeder 3:30 tour, 4:00 feeding, Cedar Cove. Come to see the public feedings of the cats, weather permitting. Tour sizes limited. SaveOurSiberians.org
26 Sunday
28 Tuesday Farmers Market 9:00, Lenexa Civic Campus. Shop for fresh vegetables, fruit, meat, eggs, baked goods, flowers and more from local merchants. Lenexa.com Kidscape 9:00, Johnson County Museum. Bring the kids to visit the experience where kids time travel to different periods and communities from the region’s past. JCPRD.com/museum
29 Wednesday Scavenger Hunt Daily, 300 SW 10th Ave, Topeka. Take the family on an interactive scavenger hunt at any time. Explore the art & history of Topeka. VisitTopekaPartnership.com
KC Northern Train Rides Noon, Line Creek Park. Ride restored trains around a half-mile track in the park. $.75/ride. KCNRR.com Music in the Park 6:00, Rotary Park. Enjoy a relaxing evening outdoors with free, live musical entertainment. Concessions will be available or bring your own picnic. BlueSpringsGov.com
Family Night 4:00, Lenexa Public Market. Get a bite to eat and hang out! Enjoy rotating activities like a balloon artist, specialty vendors and more. 913.477.7516
Preschool Gymnastics 10:15, East Lawrence Recreation Center. Bring the kids to run, tumble and burn off energy. $5 (cash only) per child ages 1-5 with parent. LawrenceKS.org. Family Fun Night 6:00, Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm. Experience what it was like to grow up in the 1870s. Tonight’s theme: Christmas in July. Mahaffie.org
31 Friday Family Bingo Night 6:00, Roeland Park Community Center. Come play everyone’s favorite B-I-N-G-O! We’ve added twists to make the game more active and sillier. Register at JCPRD.com. Festival of Butterflies Thru Aug 9, Powell Gardens. See hundreds of colorful, free-flying butterflies and much more during the signature festival. 816.697.2600
BOAT RENTALS IN KC This summer, cool off and make memories on one of our local lakes. You can rent a variety of boats at our local marinas.
BOAT RENTAL AT KANSAS CITY AREA LAKES: Johnson County, KS, Boat Rentals: • Lake Olathe (OlatheKS.org/government/parks-recreation). Kayaks, stand-up paddle boards and pedal boats are available. • Shawnee Mission Park Marina (JCPRD.com). Choose from kayaks, stand-up paddle boards, canoes and four-person pedal boats. • Kill Creek Park Marina (JCPRD.com). Marina offers kayaks, stand-up paddle boards and canoes.
Clay County, MO, Boat Rentals: • Smithville Lake (VisitClayMO.com). Fishing boat and pontoon boat rentals are available.
Jefferson County, KS, Boat Rentals: • Lake Perry (LPYM.com/boat-rentals). Marina offers pontoon and ski boat rentals.
Jackson County, MO, Boat Rentals: • Blue Springs Lake (MakeYourDayHere.com). Rent a 24-foot pontoon (up to 10 passengers) and 18-foot fishing boat (up to five passengers). • Longview Lake (MakeYourDayHere.com). Marina offers a 24-foot pontoon (up to 10 passengers). • Lake Jacomo (MakeYourDayHere.com). Choose from a 24-foot pontoon (up to 10 passengers),17-foot fishing boat (up to three passengers), 16-foot jon boat (up to four passengers), 16-foot utility boat (up to five passengers), pedal boat (four-person), specialty pedal boats (duck or swan, up to five passengers), canoes and kayaks. • Legacy Park Lake (CityOfLS.net/parks). Make FREE canoe and stand-up paddleboard reservations.
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Go Wild
Visit the
New
Elephan Expediti t on NOW OP
EN!
Reserve Your Timed Ticket Online at KansasCityZoo.org
Check online for more Zoomazing experiences!
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.
