KC Parent magazine August 2015 by KC Parent Magazine

FREE | August 2015 | KCParent.com | Since 1985

PARENT M A YE A R S

30 KC

Z I NE

For 30 years, bringing together families in Kansas City

–2 0

back to school SUCCESS!

– Secrets of “ ”students

Getting Kids to Care About

Current Events

Insider tips

from local teachers

Saving

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on BTS shopping

Home Alone

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Routine cleanings with registered dental hygienists and at every visit parents meet with Dr. Parks to discuss each child’s unique needs, focusing on education and preventive care.

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AUGUST

2015

DEPARTMENTS 13-PAGE BACK-TO-SCHOOL GUIDE, PG. 36

FEATURES

Media Mix

Word from Dad

Healthy Kids

Women’s Health

Faith & Family

Craft Corner

SPECIAL SECTIONS

Party Guide

Back-to-School Guide

Calendar of Events

Volunteer

Home Alone

Extracurriculars

15 ways for kids to give back to the community

Is your child ready to stay at home solo?

Tips for choosing the best after-school activities

Our cover features Michael from Leawood. Cover and select interior photos by KiaBondurant.com. FREE | August 2015 | KCParent.com | Since 1985

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ON THE COVER

kcparent.com august 2015

Getting Kids to Care About Current Events

Home Alone: Ready or Not?

Secrets of “A” Students

Saving $$$ on BTS Shopping

Insider Tips from Local Teachers

For 30 years, bringing together families in Kansas City

–2 0

back to school sUccEss!

– secrets of “ ”students

getting kids to care about

cUrrEnt EvEnts

InsIdEr tIps

from local teachers

savIng

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on bts shopping

homE alonE

Find out if your child is ready

EDITOR’SLETTER AUGUST 2015 Publisher Michael Gimotty Michael@KCParent.com

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

LOCAL CONTENT

Local Contributing Writers Bill Bartlett (Belton), Melissa Bellach (Overland Park), Jamie Bosse (Kansas City), Jennifer Bosse (Kansas City), Quinn Bott (Kansas City), Julie Collett (Kansas City), Tisha Foley (Belton), Lauren Greenlee (Olathe), Jessica Heine (Olathe), Christa Hines (Olathe), Karen Johnson (Olathe), Megan Kapple (Kansas City), Gina Klein (Kansas City), Kristina Light (Kansas City), Sarah Lyons (Kansas City), Jena Meyerpeter (Lenexa), Jessica Samuel (Kansas City), Jim Strahle (Kansas City), Melanie Yunger (Shawnee)

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

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PARENT M A YE A R S

30 KC

For 30 years, bringing together families in Kansas City

Wishing you a fantastic start to the school year, Kansas City!

Editor Margaret Sarver Margaret@KCParent.com

Z I NE

It’s time for Familly Faves! Be sure to nominate and vote for your favorite local businesses.

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Associate Publisher Darrell Dean Darrell@KCParent.com

family faves

n Aug. 21, 2007, I sent my older daughter off to kindergarten. This August, I will be sending that same daughter off to eighth grade. Because my girls attend parochial school, they go to school in the same building all the way through eighth grade. So in a sense, this is her last year in elementary school. Where in the world did the time go?!? I was a nervous Nellie on her first day of kindergarten and remember the feeling of leaving her behind at a new school where we didn’t know anyone. I remember picking her up and heading to a park for lemonade and cookies after the first day. I remember asking her whether she had made any new friends, and she told me about Olivea who had asked her to play (I loved Olivea—now Liv—for asking Tori to play. Today she is still a dear friend). And now? Now we are looking at high school. How is that possible? So this August and back-to-school season, I will be awash in so many emotions. Sad that her time at one school has come to an end. Excited as high school looms on her horizon. Astounded that I am old enough to have a child to attend high school. Dumbfounded by how quickly the past eight years have sped by. Nervous about what lies ahead (driving and dating, oh my!). The start of a new school year, whether a milestone year or not, is an exciting and busy time. To that end, we’ve put together a comprehensive back-to-school guide to help get your year off to a great start. From saving money on school supplies to secrets of “A” students to smooth after-school routines, we’ve got you covered.

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

Member of:

Circulation verified by:

See details on pg. 29. Margaret Sarver, Editor

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

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

kcparent.com august 2015

MEDIAMIX

adventures with friends new books offer great escapes for the last day of summer By McGeath Freeman

Orion and the Dark By Emma Yarlett

By Jennifer Chambliss Bertman

Vampire Stakes (Killer Pizza Series #3)

Best for: Ages 4-8

Best for: Ages 8-14

By Greg Taylor

Some kids find the dark a scary thing, but others look at it as a big adventure. Orion and the Dark gives readers a bit of both perspectives. Although Orion’s parents tell him there is nothing to be afraid of, he sees the world as full of frightening things. The dark is at the top of the list until one night when Dark pays Orion a little visit. This friendly-ish looking creature takes Orion on an adventure in the night. Dark explains how sounds that seem scary in the night are easily explained in the light. By the end of their adventure Orion understands that Dark can be his friend—and he’s not afraid of friends. What’s good: Wonderful illustrations that will keep children and their parents gazing at the pages. What’s bad: Even with its friendly form, the idea that the dark can come to life may be off-putting to some children.

kcparent.com august 2015

Book Scavenger

What would you do if your parents wanted to live in all 50 states? Get used to moving! For 12-year-old Emily, it’s a lot easier said than done. She doesn’t have friends, roots, pets or very many keepsakes. She does have her books, a love of puzzling and her favorite game: Book Scavenger. When Emily and her family move to San Francisco—the home of Book Scavenger—she stumbles into the biggest adventure of her life. She makes a friend, finds a rare book and uncovers a new mystery filled with humor, chases and mild danger. Maybe in the end she also can find a way to get her family to stay in one place for more than a year. What’s good: Touching preteen insight mixed with highly-engaging codes and puzzles. What’s bad: The actual online BookScavenger.com game is not nearly as well planned as the book.

Best for: Ages 10-14 Did you miss the third Killer Pizza? Have you been jonesing for another Slice? You won’t find it in your local bookstore. You have to get Vampire Stakes on your e-reader. Monster fighting high schoolers Toby, Anabelle and Strobe are on the case as teenagers disappear from Raven’s Run, OH. Toby and his Scooby gang are up against the “Elvis” of monsters, the vampire. Will they stake the vampires or will their order be up? You won’t want to put it down until the very end. This Killer Pizza is made with a generous blend of urban legends and B-movie classics. It’s topped with anticipation and sprinkled with adrenaline pumping fistfights. Vampire Stakes is a tasty treat any time of year. What’s good: A great blend of fastpaced adventures, monsters and humor. What’s bad: Can’t get this one in print. Only available as an e-book.

Don’t let little things get in your child’s way… Discover allergy at the cutting edge, and breathe easy. Dr. Zachary Jacobs and The Center for Allergy & Immunology believe that patients should not have to learn to live with their allergies and asthma. Your experience as a patient matters. We will understand who you are and where you are coming from, and make decisions with you, not for you. OUR PROMISES TO YOU:  Our goal is to treat and substantially improve the quality of life in kids and adults with allergies.  We pledge an open and honest discussion on allergies and their treatment.  We see you promptly and patients enjoy easy access. New patients can be seen within a week.

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kids and

collects gemstones helps around the house and earns an allowance, she can save up her money to purchase a new special stone. Often children who are passionate about their collections will have their eye on a specific item and may be motivated to work extra hard to earn it. Creating a collection is a beneficial and educational hobby for your child. Let her show off her stamps or rocks or rare coins proudly! She will learn a great deal from the experience and build her self-esteem. Your job is just to foster her passion. Olathe mom Karen Johnson has three children, ages 6, 4 and 2. She writes at The21stCenturySAHM.com.

quick quiz

eâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve all been there. You and your child are tidying up her room, and you find a pile of seashells hidden under her bed. You are frustrated and ready to toss this clutter out the window, right? How about trying a different approach? If your child has shown a passion for a particular object, category or theme, encouraging a proper collection for her may be a beneficial idea. Starting and maintaining a collection, whether it is seashells or rocks or coins or dolls, will teach your child about having pride and a sense of ownership. This collection will be special to her, and she will enjoy keeping it safe and protected. She can put her collection on proper display and show it off to her friends and family. She will learn how to properly manage, clean and display her items in order to preserve them, which is an important responsibility for kids to learn.

kcparent.com august 2015

Growing a collection is also educational for kids. A collection such as Legos provides excellent cognitive development, as the child can categorize, compare and contrast and organize his Lego creations in a variety of ways. A Lego collector is using his imagination and is problem solving while building. Once a creation is complete, he then can teach others about its characteristics, such as what this moving part does or why this section is larger than that. He also can set them up according to various categories. One day he may put all of the machines together, and another day categorize them by size, color or another attribute. Finally, having your child develop a collection provides endless gift and reward opportunities! Grandma and Grandpa always know they can contribute to your sonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s baseball card collection by adding a pack of cards. And if your daughter who

At what age are children old enough to begin a collection? A. 1 B. 3 C. 5 D. any age

What types of items are appropriate for a childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s collection? A. Rare items like antique coins B. Items that are age-appropriate like stuffed animals C. Both A & B D. Neither A nor B

Which of the following is NOT an advantage to developing a collection? A. Having an excuse to accumulate clutter B. Cognitive development C. Instilling a sense of pride in your child D. Teaching your child responsibility

How should your child add to her collection? A. Use her allowance money to purchase an item B. Ask for items as gifts for birthdays and holidays C. Receive an item as a reward D. All of the above Answers: 1 (D), 2 (C), 3 (A), 4 (D)

collections

Test your collection IQ!

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Research at the library or a bookstore. Books are your friend! Bookstores and libraries alike have reading materials that are child friendly. The challenge is finding something you and your child may be interested in and something you approve of and can later talk about.

getting kids to care about current events

he world around us is changing, every second, every minute, every hour and every day. It’s important for us as leaders of our households to stay in the know and inspire our children to do the same. However, it’s a little more difficult for us to intrigue our little ones. After all, our children are more interested in basketball, cheerleading or even that new SpongeBob episode. As parents, we’re stuck with finding creative solutions to get them out of old habits and interested in current trends. Whether that’s in news, technology, entertainment, fashion or even politics, we have to care about what’s current. So, how do we get our children to care too? Here are a few helpful hints:

How to get and keep kids current with current events…

Join or start a discussion group. Don’t be afraid to talk to friends, family and even other parents about getting their kids to care about current events. They could have tips or ideas about getting and staying in the know. Look at others as resources. If you don’t ask, you won’t know!

excited by learning new things. If tossing a baseball back and forth while talking about the evening news helps, try it! Another creative solution would be having your child assemble a collage of things currently happening. Give him the leading role when it comes to building the collage—let him choose the topic that interests him most and run with it!

Don’t push too hard.

Make it a family function.

Encourage curiosity!

Watch the news or read a newspaper together then ask your kids about it at dinner. Follow your questions with more questions.

Your children will only be interested if they believe they are being pushed to do something great. Our children look to us as leaders. If we encourage bad behavior and bad habits, we’ll get the worst. If we encourage good behavior and great habits, we’ll get, in return, the very best results.

Find resources online. The Washington Post, Scholastic, Time Magazine and Nickelodeon all have kid friendly resources online. Take advantage of them! Arm yourself and your child with the info you both may find fun, friendly and informative.

The goal of these tips and tricks is to inspire your children to WANT to get more involved with what’s going on in the world. Not to overexert them. Keep in mind that pushing too hard can cause pushback or push out (complete dismissal). A little push goes a long way.

Jessica Samuel is a St. Louis native and current Kansas City resident, journalist, photographer, graduate student, ALLY.

Make it fun! Finding creative ways to inspire your children to get into things happening around them shouldn’t be a chore. Make it interesting. You as a parent have to find fun and creative ways to get and keep your children challenged and

kcparent.com august 2015

If we encourage bad behavior and bad habits, we’ll get the worst. If we encourage good behavior and great habits, we’ll get, in return, the very best results.

Photographer Brett Pruitt & East Market Studios

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an, time to get up.” I started by being cheerful, tickled him, warned him that I’d tickle again, then followed through with my threat. But when he rose, he wasn’t happy. He ate his breakfast hunched over and scowled at all who glanced in his direction. That was just the beginning. Fed and medicated, he retreated to his room to hide under the blankets and continue his active resistance that didn’t end until we saw him board the bus. At school, the teachers were astounded. He was a model of compliance, and they never had trouble with him. It could be his disability, or that he’s only being a teen. Maybe he’s just not a morning person. Whatever the reason, every dawn brought a contest of wills that left me drained and exhausted. This continued the entire school year. Until the morning I kept the music playing on the computer. I rise early and write in the peaceful stillness. This day, Reiki Zen concentration music caught my eye and my ear.

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I left the music playing instead of turning on the radio or TV. When Ian came downstairs and ate, he was different. So much so, that I didn’t notice. He dressed, followed instructions and, if not entirely cheerful, at least he wasn’t hostile. And I didn’t catch on for almost a week. When the realization dawned on me, I was stunned. Could it be so simple? For the rest of the school year, I left the radio off and turned up the volume of the Reiki Zen music. Magic. I remembered the cliché about the charms of music, but now I witnessed it every school day. He’s still a teen, alternately sweet and surly without warning. But I’ve outsmarted him. All I have to do is play the music.

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Desperately Seeking Sleep: Surprising Ways Overtiredness Hurts Children

10 F

irst, the bad news: Your seemingly-healthy child may be harboring a serious health problem. Left unchecked, this highly common condition can contribute to weight gain and hinder school success. When your child is irritable, inattentive or sullen, this often-overlooked ailment may be to blame. The condition is chronic overtiredness, and doctors say it’s rampant among modern kids. “Today’s children are notoriously sleep-deprived,” says Stephen Grant, MD, sleep specialist with Iowa Sleep Centers. But there’s good news: Overtiredness is as preventable as it is pervasive. The more you know about overtiredness and how it affects children, the better you’ll be able to spot it— and stop this health saboteur in its tracks.

1 Tricky Tots

Don’t assume that you know when your child is overtired. Kids who need sleep often appear anything but sleepy. Detecting overtiredness can be tricky, says Maida Chen, MD, associate director of the Pediatric Sleep Center at Seattle Children’s Hospital. “Parents should remember that overtiredness can look like hyperactivity,”she says. That means your child’s late-night burst of energy is actually a sign of sleepiness, despite appearances to the contrary.

2 School Struggles

Want your child to ace that big exam? Make sure he hits the sack early, because sleepiness can sabotage school success. The National Sleep Foundation reports that sleep deprivation in children is associated with poor school performance and lower test scores.

Weighty Matters 3 Chronic overtiredness can pack on the

pounds and make it difficult for children to maintain a healthy weight. Research from Warwick Medical School shows that sleep deprivation increases the risk of obesity two-fold in children and adults. According to the journal Sleep, reduced REM sleep is associated with excess body weight in both kids and teens.

Diabetes Danger 4 Kids who don’t sleep enough have an

increased risk of diabetes. Multiple studies link insufficient sleep to increased diabetes risk, and new research published in the

kcparent.com august 2015

Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that just one night of sleep deprivation can bring on insulin resistance, a factor in type 2 diabetes.

Too Tired, Too Wired 5 It’s counterintuitive, but overtiredness makes

sleep more difficult—so depriving kids of naps or encouraging too-late bedtimes to help kids sleep better at night often backfires. When kids are awake too long, an overbalance of adrenaline makes it difficult to reach and maintain deep, restorative sleep.

ADHD Imposter 6 Overtiredness can masquerade in a host

of ADHD-like symptoms and even lead to what researchers call “faux ADHD,” or misdiagnosed ADHD. According to a recent study, faux ADHD is characterized by behavior problems, violence and learning difficulties and linked to poor bedtime habits and too little sleep.

Emotionally Exhausted 7 New research links overtiredness brought on by missed naps to mood disorders in toddlers. According to a new study, toddlers who miss naps have trouble expressing emotions, which has a lasting effect on their developing brains.

Night Frights 8 Helping your child get adequate sleep can

help protect her against things that go bump in the night. Kids who are overtired are more prone to nightmares—doctors chalk this up to the fact that overtired children spend more time transitioning in and out of deep sleep.

Fidgety Legs 9 Overtiredness worsens the symptoms

of restless legs syndrome. According to the Restless Legs Syndrome Foundation, RLS affects 1.5 million children and adolescents and contributes to disrupted sleep, fatigue and depression.

Early Birds q If your little rooster is waking up at 5:00 in the

morning, overtiredness could be to blame. Overtiredness is a common reason for waking up too early in the morning. When overtired children reach the naturally occurring phase of lighter sleep in the pre-dawn hours (from around 4:00 to 6:00), many wake up and stay awake instead of rolling over and falling back to sleep. The best prevention for overtiredness is also the best cure: an age-appropriate bedtime and a solid bedtime routine. According to doctors, parents can prevent the health havoc overtiredness can cause by prioritizing their child’s sleep needs. An extra half-hour of sleep is more important than another extracurricular class, another television show or another round of video games. It’s a small price to pay for a calmer, happier, healthier child.

Malia Jacobson is a nationally published sleep journalist and mom. Her most recent book is Sleep Tight, Every Night: Helping Toddlers and Preschoolers Sleep Well Without Tears, Tricks, and Tirades. She blogs about sleep and parenting at TheWellRestedFamily.com.

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Visit our website to see our full schedule of classes offered.

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Volunteering is a wonderful way to teach children the value of helping others and provide a feel-good activity for the family to enjoy together.

15 ways

for kids to volunteer

e all want the best for our children, so it makes sense that we work hard to surround them with both love and learning opportunities. Often, we take these efforts to staggering heights. A 2013 survey by the Today show reports that 42 percent of mothers surveyed said they suffer from Pinterest stress over trying to create new crafts and creative outlets for their children. “It seems like there is a lot of pressure on parents these days,” says Jessica Mills, Shawnee mom. “I love finding recipes and craft ideas on Pinterest, but it often can make me feel terrible that I don’t know how to create the perfect unicorn cupcakes for my daughter’s birthday.” In order to set a strong example for our kids and offer them special experiences, we often need to look beyond Pinterest. Volunteering is a wonderful way to teach children the value of helping others and provide a feel-good activity for the family to enjoy together. No matter what your kids’ ages, there are both organized and homegrown opportunities to do good right outside your door. Volunteering doesn’t have to be a regular commitment or even an organized event. There are lots of ways to help others and teach children valuable lessons, while keeping a focus on family time. “We do a bake sale in our neighborhood every year. We take the money and pick a charity to donate it to,” says Kate McGregor, Olathe mom. “The kids enjoy the sale and they love picking out where the money will go. It is a great activity for us to do together and it is truly our own tradition.” To help select the volunteer activity that is right for you, divide the options into groups. These can include categories such as community, neighborhood and home.

kcparent.com august 2015

Community Partner with friends and family to pick the activity or the organization that speaks to your values. Here are five suggestions to get you started: • Create artwork and send it to active military personnel overseas. • Visit a local animal shelter and pass out treats. • Make a trip to a local retirement home and give away gift bags. • Visit your local VA hospital with thank you cards. • Have a garage sale/bake sale/craft sale and donate the money to the charity of your choice.

Neighborhood Head out into the neighborhood with a team of friends and family and make your streets a truly special place to live. Here are five projects you can tackle right away: • Make a date with friends to clean up the neighborhood. Pick up trash, collect recycling and beautify the areas you share and enjoy together. • Visit an elderly neighbor and help out around the house.

• Pick up the mail for a neighbor who is out of town. • Mow the lawn for a neighbor free of charge. • Help shovel show.

At Home Charity starts at home! Starting to focus on doing your part at home will help build positive qualities and encourage a giving spirit. Here are a few ideas: • Set up a recycling station and take the recycling out each week. • Create a donation box and keep the house de-cluttered by donating items your family no longer uses. • Before you put old items in the trash, look for new ways to “upcycle” and create a project for the family to do together. • Set up a little lending library in your front yard to share the gift of reading with your friends, neighbors and family. • Build a bird feeder; watch and enjoy the birds together, knowing you are providing them with an enjoyable treat. No matter how or where you get started, the lessons of these activities will stick with children for years to come. “When we help our elderly neighbors with their chores,

my kids are so proud of themselves. They brag about it for days afterward,” Heather Grant, Kansas City, MO, mom says. “It is wonderful to see them feeling good about themselves and know that they are learning the importance of helping others.” So what exactly will your kids get out of volunteering? Here are just a few of the positive benefits:

Career exploration: Your community service experiment could end up starting a career path for your child.

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Strengthening community: If your children see the benefits of building the community, they will be inclined to reinvest in that community later in life.

Socialization: Starting a project that brings your family out into your neighborhood or community gives your children a chance to meet new people and interact in new ways. This can build valuable communications skills.

Family bonding: The time spent together as a family will build memories and bonds. Melissa Bellach is a writer and mom of two living in Overland Park.

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Are you looking for a more organized volunteer opportunity for your children? For kids ages 11 to 18, the Youth Volunteer Corps of Greater Kansas City is a great option! They are one of 45 YVC chapters across the nation. Their goals are: • To engage youth in service projects that are challenging, rewarding and educational. • To serve the unmet needs of the community and its residents. • To promote among youth a greater understanding and appreciation for the diversity of their community. • To promote a lifetime ethic of service among youth. Visit YVCKC.org for more information.

kcparent.com august 2015

HEALTHYKIDS

keeping kids safe around medications

The telephone number to the National Poison Control Center is 1.800.222.1222. Keeping it handy in your cell phone is a good idea.

ou know your child’s doctor’s name, but do you know the family pharmacist? Pharmacists are highly trained health professionals, and there’s always one available in your neighborhood, especially on weekends or when the doctor’s office is closed. Have you ever been confused about how much medication to give your kids? What the difference is between a teaspoon and a tablespoon? How you can keep your kids safe around medications in your home? A pharmacist is there to help! When you’re worried about sick kids, remembering what their doctor told you can be hard. Your pharmacist can help remind you exactly how often to give your kids a medication, and for how long. They check for medication interactions and potential hazards every time you fill a prescription, which is why using just one pharmacy is important. Pharmacists also can answer questions and make appropriate recommendations for overthe-counter medicines. Confusion about teaspoon and tablespoon measurements when dosing liquid medications results in many mistakes

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and overdoses each year. The American Pharmacist’s Association has called for an end to the use of teaspoons and tablespoons in medication dosing and recommends using only milliliters instead, a much easier and more standardized way to measure liquids. Pharmacists can provide a cup or oral syringe with milliliter measurements when they dispense the prescription. They also can show you how to use it, if you’re still unsure. Most pharmacies offer flavoring services as well, to help the medicine go down a little easier. With those appealing flavors, the increased popularity of gummy vitamins for adults and the attractive colors and shapes of many other medications, making sure your children understand the difference between medicine and candy is more important than ever. Teach your children to recognize the differences between medications and candy and remind them to always ask before trying anything that might be medicine. Make sure they know that more medicine or more vitamins don’t always mean “more healthy!” Poison control centers around the nation receive thousands of calls each year

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because of children’s accidentally ingesting medication and cosmetic items left within reach. A number of these cases happen when families visit homes of relatives or friends who aren’t used to having children around. Childhood deaths from all medicines and household chemicals have declined since 1972, which was when child-resistant packaging was first required. That’s because it works! Always keep medicines in their original, labeled and child-safe containers. The telephone number to the National Poison Control Center is 1.800.222.1222. Keeping it handy in your cell phone is a good idea. Many pediatric medications are dosed by weight, so they are specific to the child for whom the doctor prescribed them. Don’t use medication prescribed for another child on a sibling or try to save unused medication “just in case.” Get a new prescription every time. Also, dispose of medications safely. Your best bet is to add coffee grounds or cat litter, seal them in a container and place in the trash. Flushing medications down the toilet is no longer recommended.

Antibiotics are powerful medications, but misuse of them has contributed to the development of antibiotic resistance—you’ve seen the news stories about “super bugs.” Ensure your children are finishing the entire course of antibiotics as prescribed. This will prevent any resistant microbes from staying alive and growing stronger. Ask your doctor whether your child really even needs antibiotics. Most common illnesses are actually caused by viruses and, as unpleasant as it may seem, just need to be waited out. Kids with high fevers, a long duration of symptoms or severe pain should always be seen by a medical provider. Your pharmacist can recommend the best options to relieve your child’s symptoms in the meantime. We look forward to serving the needs of your family and keeping you safe! Lt. Quinn Bott, PharmD, is a pharmacist and officer in the U.S. Public Health Service. Born in Nevada, he attended pharmacy school in Massachusetts. He now lives in Missouri and works in Kansas. As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns.

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Quick Tips to Master Mealtime • Make two. If you are making one casserole, why not make two? One can be eaten now, and the other can be frozen and saved for another night’s dinner. • Stock the freezer. Fill your freezer with both premade and homemade items to have on hand for a busy week. • Use the slow cooker. Toss some things together in the morning and come home to a hot meal after a long day. • Buy pre-prepped ingredients. Pre-cut vegetables, cooked rotisserie chicken and ready-togrill marinated meat are perfect for the busy family.

s you rush home from an exhausting day, the last thing on your mind is cooking a healthy dinner for your family. The kids are hungry, the baby is crying, it’s already 5:30— and you have nothing planned for dinner. Desperate for a quick solution, you use the drive-through for a less-than-delicious and not-so-nutritious meal. Sound familiar? Many parents find themselves so busy with work, school, homework, sports, activities and errands that cooking weeknight meals may seem impossible. In reality, eating at home can be faster, easier and more affordable, even on those busy school nights, with these five steps.

Step 1 – Create a go-to list. Start by

making a list of meals your family already loves. Be realistic and keep it simple by including quick and easy recipes that can be put together on a busy evening. Once you have your list, place it where you can refer to it again in the future. This list is your secret weapon to mastering mealtime.

Step 2 – Plan the week. With your goto list of meals in hand, begin by consulting the family calendar. For the busiest and most stressful days, plan a crock pot meal. On days when everyone is coming and going at different times, try sub sandwiches with fruit. Pull ideas from your go-to list of meals to fill in the rest of the week. Meal planning will reduce the stress of the evening rush and solve your “What’s for dinner?” conundrum.

Step 3 – Go shopping. Look over your meal plan and make a grocery list. Don’t forget to check the freezer and pantry for items you already may have on hand. When your list is complete, head to your favorite store to pick up your items.

kcparent.com august 2015

Step 4 – Prep ahead. Prepare as much

food as possible in advance. Wash and chop vegetables and fruit, brown meat and put into 1-pound batches, put together casseroles in advance and thaw any items you will need in the next few days. Chicken breasts can be cooked in large batches in the crock pot for later use in salads, casseroles, soups or skillet meals. The more you prepare now, the less you have to do on those busy nights after work.

Step 5 – Stick to it. The hard work is

done, and it’s time to stick to your plan. Because everything is prepped and ready, you just have to finish your meals and enjoy. Unexpected challenges may come up, but with an organized plan, you will be able to handle most surprises with ease without getting stuck in the fast food rut once again. With these five easy steps, you will be able to throw together a fast, healthy and budget-friendly meal, while reducing stress and gaining quality family time. Sarah Lyons lives in Olathe with her brood that needs to eat several times a day.

• Leftover night. Designate one night a week to eat whatever is in the fridge and save time and money. • Stock the pantry. Have ingredients on hand you can turn into a meal in a bind, such as spaghetti, bean burritos or quesadillas. • Double duty. Use extra ingredients to make two meals. For example, leftover taco meat can become enchiladas, nachos or chili. Grilled chicken breasts can be used for a salad, soup or a casserole. • Theme nights. Schedule a pasta Monday, taco Tuesday, stir fry Wednesday, etc. To make things even easier, repeat the menu every week to streamline your grocery list, steady your food budget and simplify meal planning. • Love eating out? Add a night out to your meal plan once in a while to treat yourself and your family. • Make it fun. Get the kids involved in meal planning and food prep and, most importantly, enjoy mealtime together.

For tasty and easy one pot meal recipes, log onto KCParent.com.

tips to savor summer

cket list

As summer nears its end, the annual back-to-school craziness lurks just around the corner. Before the chaos begins, however, try this bucket list of family fun activities to savor the last days of summer freedom. It’s a great way to create some lasting memories!

Throw one last Go berry picking. summer barbecue.

Enjoy the company of friends and family while soaking in the outdoors before fall and winter set in.

Try geocaching with the family.

Geocaching is like

a scavenger hunt, only you use a GPS (or GPS app on your phone) and drive around town to find hidden treasures. Check out Geocaching.com to learn more and to find out where to search near your home.

Visit a museum.

It’s hot outside, so why not go inside and enjoy the cool air-conditioning while exploring some great exhibits? Choose a museum that will spark your children’s interests and get them in gear for learning more when they go back to school.

Create chalk art

. Invest in some sidewalk chalk and turn your sidewalks into masterpieces! Don’t forget to take a picture.

kcparent.com august 2015

Several local farms offer berry picking. After gathering the berries, be sure to save those that are overripe or crushed; they make great paint! Just smash them up and mix with a little cornstarch. Voila!

Go to the fair.

Ride the Ferris wheel, eat deep-fried fair food, play games and win prizes. Have fun!

local library beforehand and bring a notebook along to log the birds you see. Or visit MyBirdz.org and click on your state to find out what birds are in your area.

P lay brain games

. Help your children get into the back-to-school mindset by scheduling several times throughout the day for fun, interactive brain games (puzzles, cooking, sorting, etc.). You might also schedule a time each day for silent reading.

Take a last-minute P lan one last bash. road trip.

Routine soon will take over, so be spontaneous while you still can. You don’t have to travel far. Pull out some gear and camp out at a local campground. Tell stories by the campfire, roast marshmallows and just have fun!

Dance in the rain

. A few raindrops won’t hurt you; for some, it’s quite refreshing. So step on out there in your galoshes with your little ones and dance!

Go bird watching.

With a pair of binoculars in hand, head into the great outdoors to see what types of feathered friends you can find. Borrow a bird guide from your

Spend a day at the beach, the lake or the zoo. Do something fun and local that can end the summer with a house filled with smiles.

Volunteer in the community.

There is no better time for teaching your children about empathy and compassion than now. Visit an animal shelter and play with the cats and dogs—have your children make cat toys to take along for the felines. Purchase school supplies and take your kids to drop them off at a local charity. Volunteer in a local food pantry. The possibilities are endless. Visit VolunteerMatch.com to find places in your community where you can volunteer with your children.

For great ways to savor summer for under $5, visit KCParent.com!

Take out the kiddie pool or slip-and-slide.

Invite friends and have some laughs and fun in the water one last time.

Have a family car wash.

Clean the car as a family! Whip out the swimsuits, buckets, sponges and soap and have fun in the sun…and water. (Don’t forget the sunscreen.)

Go to a drive-in movie. Set up a lemonade stand.

Whip up some tasty lemonade (don’t forget the ice) and set up shop on your driveway or sidewalk. Let the kids decorate the sign. There’s nothing like a good, old-fashioned lemonade stand in the summertime.

Go mini golfing.

Find a local mini golf course and play one last game before summer’s end.

Jump rope.

Pull out the jump ropes and have fun enjoying this nostalgic pastime. A definite mustdo for summer’s end!

Take a hike.

Learn about nature while the sun is still shining and the flowers are still blooming. Research local hiking trails or arboretums and tie on those walking shoes! Hiking trails are free and often lined with great plant life you and your children can study. Arboretums, while not always free, are wonderful places to learn about plants.

P lay some lawn games.

Try croquet, horseshoes or badminton (to name a few). There are so many to choose from. Have some family fun in your own yard!

Remember those? Let your kiddos experience the fun of sitting in the car, munching popcorn and watching a great flick.

Have a game night.

Turn off the screens and pull out the board games. There’s nothing like spending quality time around the table talking, laughing and playing some of your favorite games. Bingo!

Visit a farmers market.

Let your children pick out fruits and vegetables to purchase. Who knows, they may find something new they’d like to try. Farmers markets often have great activities for kids too!

You also can create a summer bucket list of your own.

Visit Pinterest.com for some free printable bucket lists, then hold a family meeting and make your own back-to-school bucket list. Take turns adding to it and then do it. See how many items your family completes before school begins—and be sure to take lots of pictures! Kansas City mom and author Gina Klein is excited to start a back-toschool bucket list with her family!

kcparent.com august 2015

WOMENSHEALTH

es, you read correctly! No typo here. Immunizations don’t end when you become an adult. The purpose of vaccines is to save lives by preventing life threatening illness or to provide protection against a serious illness that may have longterm effects. Each year the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) reviews the recommended vaccine schedule, revising it as necessary, to provide the public with a new and improved list of recommended vaccines. The summaries of changes from 2014 were published in February 2015. Following is a list of vaccines recommended for adults by the Centers for Disease Control:

• Recommended for ages 65 and older or if you have a chronic illness, weak immune system or your spleen has been removed. • Can be administered any time, just ask your doctor.

Influenza (flu):

Shingles (herpes zoster):

• The flu is a viral infection affecting the respiratory system and may lead to serious or life threatening complications. • The vaccine is recommended for all adults, ideally yearly around the month of September.

Pneumococcal Disease: • Potentially serious infection caused by a type of bacteria taking various forms such as pneumonia or meningitis.

The following is a list of vaccines that are recommended by the CDC. Most people should have received these vaccines during childhood, but if you are unsure or haven’t received them, please contact your health care provider: • Tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis: childhood, but need a booster every 10 years • Varicella: need proof of illness or vaccination • Measles, mumps, rubella • Meningitis: usually prior to college, but might need if traveling out of the country • Hepatitis A • Hepatitis B • Haemophilus influenza type B (Hib)

Immunizations for Adults

• Anyone who has recovered from the chickenpox might develop shingles. • Obtain this vaccine if over age 60.

Human Papillomavirus (HPV): • Genital HPV is a common sexually transmitted infection that may lead to cervical cancer. • Obtain this vaccine if you are female age 26 or younger or male age 21 or younger and did not get this vaccine as an adolescent.

For more information about vaccinations for adults and children visit CDC.gov, AdultVaccination.org, MayoClinic.com or visit with your personal health care provider. Melanie Yunger is a local wife, mom and nurse practitioner who received a flu shot this year. As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns.

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FAITH&FAMILY

seasons of change

oxes were stacked in the rooms where our family made memories. Moving was a way of life for us. We were committed to a career that required my husband to transfer every year or two, so we journeyed together considering each mile an adventure. Moving was a defining season for our family. We learned who we are (and who we’re not) and what makes our family thrive. With each transfer letter, our faith in God was challenged and strengthened, and our identity as a family more clearly defined. One thing I learned to appreciate about being in a new, unfamiliar place was the season of focus where our calendars were less cluttered and commitments outside of our new home few and far between. The unknown has a way of making the known crystal clear. We knew going into each move God was our provider and we’d make the best out of every circumstance, trusting His lead. We knew adapting was

Teaching children and adults the love of dance for 43 years.

our new normal. We knew patience when house hunting went awry. We knew to search for a deeper joy when temporal happiness was out of reach. Romans 8:28 says, “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.” God’s purpose for us is to be more like Jesus: forgiving, meek, patient, humble, joyful, merciful and eternally focused. With each move we knew God had a purpose for our being there and trusted His good would always trump our best ideas. We moved to the Kansas City area five years ago. It’s been our longest stay to date, and we have no plans to move anytime soon. Staying in one place this long has solidified my belief that it is possible to bloom where you’re planted. Shallow root systems blossom as beautifully as deep-rooted plants. Ecclesiastes 3:11 says, “Yet God has made everything beautiful for its own time.

He has planted eternity in the human heart, but even so, people cannot see the whole scope of God’s work from beginning to end.” There truly is a time for everything, and embracing the daily application of that truth is a game changer. As our family digs in roots here in Kansas City, we get to be the voice of encouragement and hope for other families in seasons of transition. If that’s your family in a season of change, we pray you know God is good and find joy in your journey. Jena Meyerpeter is a freelance writer growing roots in Lenexa.

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Kansas City, we want to hear from you! Log onto KCParent.com and nominate your favorite business in our KC Parent’s Family Faves. Nominations taken Aug. 11-20. Then, come back and vote beginning Sept. 8. Winning businesses will be featured in the December issue. kcparent.com august 2015

CRAFTCORNER

toothpick cactuses

Cactuses and succulents are all the rage right now. Kids can hop on the trend by making their own cactuses with just a few craft supplies. These little guys will look so cute sitting on a shelf and are much lower maintenance than a real plant! Get creative with choosing colors to make these cactuses a fun and funky craft project!

Step One: Begin by putting a layer of Mod Podge on your Styrofoam ball with a foam brush. Place some tissue paper on the ball and add more Mod Podge on top. Once itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dry, you can add more layers of tissue paper and Mod Podge if desired.

Step Two: Paint your toothpicks. To make painting easier, you can stick the toothpicks in an extra Styrofoam ball while applying paint. When the paint is dry, cut or break the toothpicks in half.

Step Three: Stick your toothpicks in the dried Styrofoam ball. Step Four: If desired, paint the terra cotta pots. When they are dry, place the toothpick cactuses in the pots and enjoy!

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

kcparent.com august 2015

Dentistry That Will Make Kids

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oes the idea of leaving your child home alone evoke images from the 1990s movie Home Alone? No need to panic! For many, leaving children home alone is not only an “earned” convenience of sorts for parents, but also a rite of passage for children. While Kansas does not have an official legal age for leaving a child home alone, the guideline listed and encouraged is age 12. This is also supported by the National SAFEKIDS Campaign, which recommends no child under the age of 12 be left home alone. Keep in mind this varies from state to state, family to family and even child to child. Before leaving your child home alone for the first time, here are some things to consider:

up to the house, I found her sitting on the porch. The one thing I hadn’t said? Stay inside!” While many things about staying home alone vary, one thing seems to be common ground for everyone— begin with very small outings and work your way up. Overland Park mom Liz agrees. “We started leaving our oldest at home when he was in sixth grade,” she says. “We gradually built up the time away to develop his confidence and test his safety skills. At first, it was just a run to the grocery store or to pick up a sibling. Now we can leave them for an evening.” Similarly, Lynn, an Overland Park mom of three, says, “I started with really short outings—15 to 20 minutes while I ran to CVS or the post office, etc. We worked up to longer times.” • Does your child know basic Whatever the duration of personal information, such as errand you are running, one thing his full name, address, phone is certain. Staying at home alone number and parents’ names? is an important milestone for • Does your child know household your child (and you!) and “can safety rules and basic first aid? be very confidence-building if • Can your child use the phone to done properly,” says Elizabeth. Staying at home alone is an important call you, a neighbor or 911? Remember, what works for one While this list is by no means milestone for your child (and you!) and can family may not work for yours, and even what worked for your oldest exhaustive, it’s a place to start. be very confidence-building if done properly. may not work for your youngest. A more extensive guide can be The important thing is to not push found at DCF.ks.gov/services/PPS/ your child but try when the time is right, ensure your child feels Documents/PPM_Forms/Appendices/Appendix_1B.pdf. comfortable with the idea and provide him with adequate training. So you’ve decided your child is ready…now what? Let the preparations begin! While the City of Leawood and Blue Valley Julie Collett writes from Overland Park where she doesn’t yet have the Recreation both offer a home alone basics course for children ages convenience of leaving children home alone because they’re only 4, 2 9-12, you’ll want your own set of household guidelines and rules and 7 months, but knows she will all too soon! in place, as well as clear expectations. Elizabeth, Lenexa mom of three, says, “Our daughter is now 11 and staying home alone for perhaps an hour at a time. She is not allowed to answer the door A few more things to consider: and is only able to answer the phone if a parent is calling. She always • Explicitly go over rules and guidelines. has a phone number to reach us, and it is not unusual for her to • Have a list of important numbers on the fridge. still call and check in with us when we are away. It is also helpful to • Gather simple first aid supplies in one area and go over know whether a close neighbor is home during that time if a true them with your child. emergency would arise.” • Have your phone handy. And just when you feel like you’ve been crystal clear and covered • Enlist the support of neighbors. all bases, think again. Margaret Sarver, our very own editor, says, • Set parental controls on technology. “The first time I left my older alone (for five minutes while I ran my • Role-play various scenarios. younger to dance), I went over what I thought was every detail: Don’t • Congratulate your child on a job well done (providing it answer the phone or the door. If the doorbell rings, stay away from does indeed go well!) and reteach as you see necessary. windows so people at the door don’t see you. I gave a list of emergency

home alone: ready or not

numbers, said don’t turn on the stove, etc., and off I went. As I pulled

kcparent.com august 2015

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toy stor y Ka n s as C i t y ’ s

Before your kids head back to school, squeeze a little more play into the

summer calendar. And what better way to play than with a celebration of toys! These are our favorite local attractions telling the story of toys and childhood. new home, will still open every December, maintaining a special holiday tradition. New and improved exhibits throughout include a Grandma’s Attic display showcasing toys and presenting their individual stories as treasures to be discovered. Visitors will enjoy interactive exhibits, learning more about the process of creating and making both miniatures and toys. And the joy of discovering favorites from each family generation’s childhood remains intact—I was excited to see many of my favorite childhood toys and those of my family among the collection. The reopening of this Kansas City treasure was well worth the wait! The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures

The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures (formerly known as the

Powell Gardens’ Nature Connects 2 Exhibit

Does your child get tired of their own toys? For ideas on how to bust toy boredom, head to KCParent.com.

kcparent.com august 2015

Toy & Miniature Museum of Kansas City, ToyAndMiniatureMuseum.org) has been undergoing one tremendous makeover, and Aug. 1 is the big reveal! The museum was one of my favorite Kansas City attractions when I was growing up. I loved exploring room upon room of dollhouses and toys— discovering new treasures on each visit. This was on the top of my list to share with my girls as soon as they were old enough to enjoy it. You can imagine my surprise when I learned the museum would be closing for many months to undergo a transformation and improvement—how could this already incredible attraction be improved? Recently, I had the pleasure of a sneak peek at the surprise that lies in store. Wow, this is one amazing makeover! A streamlined entry and revised floorplan simplify things for visitors but retain the magic and whimsy we’ve loved for years. The first impression is incredible: a giant rotating spiral of toys backlit and greeting visitors who delight in finding their own favorites and discovering new ones on the animated real-life collage. The dollhouse displays are beautifully lit and presented, and the Coleman dollhouse, in a

Lego®, one of the most popular children’s toys for generations, is visiting Kansas City this summer at Powell Gardens’ Nature Connects 2 Exhibit (PowellGardens.org), on display through Sept. 7. Children are invited to participate in a scavenger hunt (see the Visitor’s Center for information before you begin), discovering 27 Lego® sculptures throughout the gardens. The sculptures depict amazing creatures at home in nature. Ranging in size from 6 inches to 6 feet, Lego® animals include a hummingbird, woodpecker, bald eagle, monarch butterfly, squirrels, rabbits, a snake, a mouse, a family of ducks and more. In addition to the exhibit, visitors may enjoy educational activities and special performances, such as a hands-on Lego® brick building station, Lego® brick design competitions, storytelling, discovery stations and more. Tip: Plan your visit in time to also enjoy the Festival of Butterflies: July 31Aug. 2 & Aug. 7-9. Each August Powell Gardens transforms the 2,500-square-foot conservatory into a temporary butterfly house, filled to the brim with gorgeous blooms and hundreds of tropical butterflies. Highlights of the event include a native butterfly breezeway by master gardeners, Monarch Watch and the Idalia Society, kids’ crafts, storytelling, a costume parade, a butterfly catch-and-release area and much more.

Science City at Union Station (30 W. Pershing Rd., Kansas City, MO, 816.460.2020, UnionStation.org). Over the years, Science City just keeps getting better. Their newest exhibits on water, the science of energy and DNA are well designed and educational. Many of the exhibits are not just educational, but entertaining as well. As kids dance at a musical playground, play with water, launch a rocket, dig for fossils and discover, they are actually learning. In addition to the fun in the museum, the gift shop sells a variety of great science themed toys, experiments and books you won’t find at your local big box store. On your next trip to Science City be sure to visit the Model Rail Experience at the far end of the Grand Hall. Step into an 8,000-square-foot world of toy trains. From the tiniest N-scale model train to big G-scale trains, model train enthusiasts, the young, and the young-at-heart, enjoy this display. The trains meander through countryside and urban areas, old and new. The scenes change for the holidays with special exhibits for Christmas, and there is an interactive section with Thomas the Tank trains just for children. This is truly one of the best model train displays we have ever seen.

Three More Toy Adventures in KC

The merry-go-round is one of childhood’s fondest memories, and you can take a trip to see where it all began with a visit to the C.W. Parker Carousel Museum (FirstCityMuseums.org). You’ll enjoy seeing a variety of merry-go-rounds, including the oldest operating primitive wooden carousel and even miniature carousel music boxes. Best of all, every visit includes a nostalgic merry-go-round ride for fun memories and the perfect photo op! The UFDC Doll Museum (10900 N. Pomona Ave., Kansas City, MO, 816.891.7040) is beloved by doll collectors and doll lovers of all ages. The museum features special exhibits that change throughout the year, showcasing dolls from every culture and era. The collections feature dolls from around the world in all sizes and shapes, made from everything from papier mache to porcelain.

A unique new museum hit the scene in May this year. The Roller Coaster Model Museum (11415 E. 23rd St. S., Independence, MO,

816.656.5106, RollerCoasterModelMuseum.com) is home to working and static model roller coasters in various scales, including models of retired Worlds of Fun roller coasters.

Science City at Union Station

Kristina Light loves the National Museum of Toys and Miniatures, her husband is partial to the Model Rail Experience and her girls love any adventure that leads to fun! kcparent.com august 2015

CONTENTS

Special thanks to Hoffman International for providing the talent for the cover and interior photo shoot. HoffmanModels.com

kcparent.com august 2015

after-school routine

through the years

inside scoop

secrets of “a” students

don’t break the bank

back-to-school essentials

smart start

extracurricular activites

old schoolhouses of KC

SCHOOL

CREATING

o) t g kin

ic t s d (an an after-school

routine

Finding balance between activities, homework and downtime is crucial in successfully sticking to an after-school routine.

hat time of year is upon us once more. We are purchasing supplies, filling backpacks to the brim and setting alarm clocks. Kids and parents alike are diving into a brand new school year—with both the fun and frustrations that accompany it. One such challenge can be establishing an afterschool routine. Creating and sticking to one can be difficult, but the benefits far outweigh the potential challenges. Local moms share the top five ways to keep a child’s routine on track.

1. Banish Hunger According to “Do After-School Snacks Matter?” on SheKnows.com, “The afterschool snack fuels a kid’s brain and body for homework, extracurricular activities and more.” An empty stomach could lead to a decrease in energy, mental alertness and brainpower. Tonganoxie mom Patricia Duvall says, “We usually have snacks first and then tackle homework right away.” The best options to keep both brain and body fueled are items such as a hard-boiled eggs, veggies like carrot sticks and pepper slices, fruits like apple wedges and bananas and small cups of yogurt or string cheese.

2. Let Them Play After a long day of activities planned and controlled by adults, most children need a little break after school to let off steam. Tonganoxie mom Desiree Kenney says, “I usually allow the kids to play for a while after school to get some energy out and let them decompress. Then we tackle about 30 minutes of homework. We break up the homework so there is only a little each night.”

3. Find Balance After-school hours are no longer filled simply with homework and time with friends. Many kids are often enrolled in several extracurricular activities such as sports, educational clubs, music lessons and community volunteer programs. Finding balance between activities, homework and downtime is crucial to successfully sticking to an after-school routine. If your child has activities scheduled on Tuesdays and Thursdays for example, consider allotting more time on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays for homework.

4. Consider a Day Off It’s easy to get caught up in the monotony of day-to-day activities. Sometimes it seems that we’re simply moving from one task to the next from the time we wake until the time we fall asleep. As adults, we know that overextending ourselves can often lead to burnout. The same is true of our kids. In an article published in the American Journal of Play, several studies show that “…there has been a significant increase in anxiety and depression from 1950 to present day in children and teens.” This has been correlated to the decrease in free play. Today’s youth

have a much busier agenda than those of previous generations. Allowing our children a day off from the hustle and bustle decreases the likelihood of burnout. Giving them a day that is free of homework and extracurricular activities can keep them from feeling overextended.

5. Mark It on the Calendar With each child enrolled in various activities, creating or sticking to any routine can seem impossible. While visiting with a friend one day, I noticed that she had a great way of keeping the entire family on track. She had hung a dry erase calendar on a wall by the kitchen and color coordinated each child’s activities. The kids know what colors they are on the calendar and regularly consult it to see what is planned for the week. Being able to identify their schedule ensures that they have a better understanding of expectations after each school day. For example, the oldest son knows that on Tuesdays, he is only allowed to play outside for approximately 30 minutes before coming in for piano lessons. Wednesdays, however, are free days. As always, keep in mind that what works for one family will not always work for another. Consider talking through the routine you would like to establish with your kids to ensure that everyone is on the same page. The best way to stick to a routine is working together to make it successful.

Jennifer Bosse lives in Kansas City with her husband and two sons. kcparent.com august 2015

PARENT M A YE A R S

30 KC

Z I NE

–2 0

back to school through the years

his month, as kids across the metro embark on a new school year with sharpened pencils and crisp notebooks, we step into the KC Parent archives for a peek at some of our past back-to-school issues. While many hot topics of the ’80s remain front and center for today’s parents of school-age children—healthy lunches, bus safety, easing homework headaches— other topics have gone by the wayside, and new matters have risen to prominence. Take a look at a few highlights of past August issues and see whether some of the stories catch your eye too.

1987 In this issue, the editor recalls when she started kindergarten and how she was sent home the first several days when she wouldn’t stop crying. Plenty of kindergarteners shed tears at the beginning of the year, but I would venture to guess that teachers these days don’t send them home! A story on helping children adjust to a new school suggests parents have the teacher write the child’s name on the “blackboard” so other students would remember it. Of course, most classrooms today have dry-erase whiteboards and smart boards for teachers and students to use. No more pounding black erasers! Another article encourages parents to help their children get into a routine two weeks before school begins, and mentions the morning and afternoon sessions of kindergarten. Half-day kindergarten was the norm in the ’80s, but today many districts have full-day kindergarten, either as a standard or as an optional fee-based program.

1991 Since a link between proper nutrition and healthy bodies was discovered, parents have tried to instill in

kcparent.com august 2015

their children the importance of good eating habits. KC Parent—and other parenting publications—often features articles and recipes with a health focus. An article in this 1991 issue highlights healthy breakfasts, nutritious lunches and vitamin-packed snacks, even including a few recipes. Children aren’t the only ones who go back to school; this magazine has an interesting article on parents’ going back to school to get their GEDs or college degrees. The writer focuses on adults’ balancing parenting duties, work, childcare and school, and suggests courses that suit parents’ needs, such as evening/weekend classes and independent study. One area not covered in this 1991 story? Online classes! A story about the dangers facing high school and college students has a quote that references parental concerns of the time: “We’ve seen Fast Times at Ridgemont High, Beverly Hills 90210. We’ve heard about date rape, Ted Bundy and anorexia nervosa.” While the article encourages parents to keep close tabs on their children, it doesn’t mention using texting or cell phones to do so. No surprise there, as few people had cell phones in 1991.

1998 In the late ’90s, technology was moving to the forefront for many families, as evidenced

by several articles and ads in this issue.An ad featuring a back-to-school promotion by a communications company caught my attention. The company encourages parents to sign up for dial-up Internet access and the business would provide a filtered Internet access account for kids, protecting them from “indecent content”… all of this for only $19.50 a month! One story focuses on girls and science and contains the quote, “As the world becomes more technologically advanced and dependent on technology, we cannot allow our daughters to become science and technology dropouts.” Today, these subjects continue to be emphasized in schools for both genders, as evidenced by STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) schools and classes around the nation. Many stories and ads center on the importance of kids’ being active and not parked in front of the TV and video games—sound familiar? Today’s parents have the same concerns. Another sign of exploding technology? KCParent.com is mentioned throughout the magazine as the place to turn for more tips and calendar events.

SCHOOL 2002 In this back-to-school issue, one writer emphasizes the health hazards of children’s carrying extremely heavy backpacks and suggests ways for kids to lighten the load or distribute the weight more evenly to protect their backs. While she mentions heavy textbooks and homework, she doesn’t reference laptops and iPads, which many students haul back and forth to school these days. A story on affording college states that the average annual tuition cost for a fouryear private college in 2000 was $15,000

and estimated that by 2015, that number would be about $30,000. Today’s average, according to U.S. News and World Report, is $35,000.

2005 An education guide can be found in this magazine, which didn’t appear in the earlier issues I thumbed through. Lists of local colleges/universities, elementary and secondary schools, preschools, parochial schools, after-school programs and more can be found in this section. KC Parent still publishes an education guide online. A graph accompanying one back-toschool story contains the following text: “Students aren’t just buying pencils and binders anymore. Nearly half of consumers

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intend to purchase electronics such as a computer, cell phone or calculators.” According to the National Retail Federation, nearly 56 percent of consumers purchased electronics during back-to-school shopping in 2014. I made a mental note after reading a story that focuses on waking kids up for school. The writer suggests buying an alarm clock for kids to prevent the frustration of parents’ telling kids eight times to get out of bed. She claims her kids got up quickly after converting to this wake-up call. Our household will be trying this technique when school starts!

Tisha Foley’s children will join the back-toschool brigade in Belton this month.

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INSIDE SCOOP

on Back to School in Kansas City compiled by Melissa Bellach

40% of moms say they spend

$30 per child on supplies.

50% of moms say they spend $50 per child on supplies.

When do you start your back-to-school shopping?

10% of moms say they spend

more than $50. How much is spent

10% 85%

on back-to-school of moms say they wait until a few weeks before school.

of moms say they try to check sales and buy supplies throughout the summer.

of moms say they shop the night before school begins.

Favorite stores for back-to-school shopping? • Old Navy • Target • WalMart • Osh Kosh • Stride Rite

shopping? What is the average amount spent on clothes? On supplies? On electronics?

When should kids get tech devices at school? Elementary school or middle school?

65% of moms say middle school. **However, most of the moms say their kids are getting them in elementary school.**

45% of moms say they spend $200 on back-to-school clothes. 55% of moms say they spend

$500 on back-to-school clothes.

** Several moms say their kids are getting iPads through the schools, so they aren’t really buying them electronics for school.**

Do kids eat healthier with school lunches or sack lunches?

90% say sack lunches are healthier. 10% say school lunches are healthier. **100DaysOfRealFood.com was mentioned as a good resource for lunch-packing.**

What do moms worry most about when sending kids back to school?

How many plan to volunteer at the school this year?

50% 25% 25%

of moms say they will volunteer.

worry that their child will be behind. fret about

bullying.

are concerned what their children’s experience with the teacher will be like.

kcparent.com august 2015

How many moms feel a sense of relief when the kids head back to school?

65%

of moms say they feel some relief when school starts again.

10% 35%

of moms say they will contribute in other ways (snacks, supplies, etc.).

SCHOOL

“A”students

secrets of

Land Running. Stanford graduate

re super-achieving students born or made? Research overwhelmingly confirms that the common denominator between gifted students is found within their habits, not their DNA. That’s good news! For students looking to start this upcoming school year on the right foot, their best chance for success lies in cracking the secrets of A+ students and applying them themselves. Here are some of the most common habits top students apply to make the grade.

Time Management. One of the most important habits of A+ students is developing an understanding of personal time management. Students should resolve to kick procrastination to the curb by building margin into their day, developing a long-term plan for studying and devising a plan of attack for big projects, breaking them into reasonable tasks. Learning what you’re capable of accomplishing on a dayto-day basis is key to preventing last minute crash studying and all-nighters. Some students find that waking up early to study works best, while others find late-night study sessions more productive. The key is to find what works best and just stick with it.

and college professor Mark Draper, Ph.D., notes that one of the most critical parts of his academic success was found in a concept he refers to as land running, which simply means starting the school year off by hitting the books as hard as you would when preparing for finals week at the end of a semester. Hard work and dedication prepares a student for pop quizzes and helps build confidence when content becomes increasingly difficult. Land running also establishes initial academic success, a key motivator in long-term success in school. Social science has proven time and time again the power of early positive rewards. A student can see the fruit of how success breeds success when he gets the ball rolling early in the semester.

Reading Comprehension. From science to grammar, history to creative writing, reading comprehension ensures better understanding of them all. One of the hallmarks of good students is understanding the text and being what Gordon W. Green, Jr., author of Getting Straight A’s, refers to in his book as “an active reader,” someone who frequently asks questions to get a better understanding of the author’s intended meaning and message.

Take Good Notes. Reading the course work is only a part of the equation. Teachers also may have key points they wish to drive home throughout their lectures that a student won’t find in his textbooks. That’s where good note-taking comes in. Preparing for quizzes, tests and reports is significantly easier when a student can refer to content and concepts discussed both within his textbooks and classroom lectures. Listening for big overarching themes and recording

them throughout class time provides a fringe benefit: It’s hard to get distracted when intently focused on taking good notes.

Parental Involvement. It should be no surprise that the biggest secret to academic success is really no secret at all. As Edwin Kiester discovered when researching for his article “Secrets of Straight-A Students,” parental involvement is absolutely critical to how a student performs. Kiester concludes that, by and large, exceptional students come from homes where there is a high value on education. When parents set high standards for their children, encouraging them in their studies (but not doing the work for them), they essentially teach the merits of responsibility...and their kids, in turn, deliver. Lauren Greenlee was one of “those” students that loved all aspects of school. She passes along her love of learning to her three boys and freelances from her Olathe home. Technology is one of the biggest benefits of our time, but students looking to it to study can get lost in a labyrinth of social media time wasters from Facebook to Youtube to email. Thankfully, there’s an app for that. It’s true! With StayFocused, students can set a time limit on how often they can visit distracting sites each day (after the day’s limit, those sites become blocked), while the app KeepMeFocused sends warnings to a user when he has reached his allotted time on preferred social media websites.

kcparent.com august 2015

don’t break the bank on back to school Americans spent a whopping $75 billion on back to school in 2014.

he beginning of the school year is an expensive time for parents. Historically, this is the secondlargest shopping season of the year, behind only the winter holiday season. According to the National Retail Federation, Americans spent a whopping $75 billion on back to school in 2014. You anticipate extra expenses such as registration and enrollment fees this time of year, but there are several other costs that should be on your radar. Parents also need to consider the cost of school supplies, electronics, uniforms and gear, parent-teacher organization dues and technology fees. Here are some tips to help you plan ahead:

• Have a plan and stick to it!

Going shopping without a plan can lead to impulse purchases, buyer’s remorse and empty pockets. Try to anticipate all of the upcoming costs and put together a realistic budget that you are committed to sticking to—and be specific. Most schools provide a comprehensive list of what is needed for the classroom on their website or give it out during summer registration. School lists are a good start, but you’ll need other items beside supplies for the classroom. You know that you will need to buy clothes, but don’t just start shopping for clothes in general. List exactly what you need (two pairs of jeans, one pair of athletic shoes, five collared shirts, five t-shirts, one light jacket, etc.) and be sure to cross an item off your list once it has been purchased so you don’t end up with duplicates.

• Look for deals and coupons. If you’re like me, you get TONs of emails with coupons for stores where you

kcparent.com august 2015

frequently shop. Instead of just deleting them, create a folder in your email called “coupons” and save these emails in the folder as you get them. Before you go shopping, check this folder to see what coupons you have available. You also can use websites and apps like RetailMeNot where you can search for coupons by the name of the store. If you have an Amazon Prime or Amazon Mom membership, search for your list items and compare prices. Can you buy it in bulk? Stores like Costco and Sam’s Club offer cheaper perunit prices when you buy in bulk. If the idea of having a pallet of pencils sitting in your storage room makes you cringe, see whether some other families want to split the cost and product with you. Also remember taxfree shopping days!

• Don’t be caught off guard.

You know to expect the usual expenses— school supplies for the classroom, new clothes and shoes and registration fees, but don’t forget about the other potential costs associated with school. You may be spending more on gas as your daily commute changes and potentially traveling for sporting events and field trips. You typically need to take the kids in for a checkup to complete all of their health care forms prior to the start of school. You’ll need extra funds for those co-pays and doctor visits. If you are constantly on the go between work, school, practice and games, you may be eating out more, which also can put a strain on the budget. Try to plan ahead by making meals ahead and freezing them. Or be prepared to pack sandwiches or other easy and cost-effective meals.

• Check your stock. You know

that feeling when you come home from the grocery store with peanut butter just to discover you already have three unopened jars in the pantry? Chances are you have pencils, erasers and rulers somewhere in your house, so you may not need to buy any this year. Search your home office area, kitchen drawers and storage closets to take stock of what you already have. Calculators and other electronics typically can be used for several years; they may just need new batteries. Do the kids really need new

backpacks and lunchboxes this fall? Maybe last year’s are still in good shape or just need a few patches or a new zipper. Take stock of what you already have before embarking on your shopping trips.

•

Just say no! Back-to-school time is one of the biggest shopping seasons of the year, and retailers will be ready for you. Tons of brightly colored kiosks and attractive, strategically placed displays will beg for your (or your child’s) attention. Don’t be fooled by those chocolate-flavored erasers and fancy personalized lunch pails—if you already have what you need, just say no and move on! It might make sense to go shopping for some items by yourself so the kids don’t beg for random items not on your list. When you have so many things to buy at once, it can be tempting to break out the credit card instead of waiting until you have the funds you need to make the purchases. JUST SAY NO! Avoid impulse purchases and stick to the plan so you can start the school year on the right foot.

• Get the troops on board.

Setting a budget should be a family affair. Back-to-school shopping is a great way to engage your kids on managing money and budgeting. Put them in charge of one of the items on your list. Tell them the budget and allow them to shop for the item. If they have money left over, allow them to use the excess for whatever they want as a reward for being a smart shopper. They will realize that you can get three packs of plain pencils for the same cost as one pack of Hello Kitty pencils. Don’t let the kids break the budget. If you have budgeted $25 for each backpack and they want the $40 deluxe version, have them figure out a way to make up the difference. Use this as a learning opportunity to teach your kids the value of money and set them up for financial success in the future. Back-to-school time is a fun and exciting season of the year, but it also can be stressful on your emotions, your schedule and your paycheck. Stick to these tips to avoid breaking the bank on back to school this year.

Jamie Bosse, CFP®, is a financial planner at KHC Wealth Management in Overland Park.

back-to-school essentials

SCHOOL

By Margaret Sarver

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kcparent.com august 2015

Kids feel embarrassed on the first day when they aren’t prepared.

Smart Start: tips

from teachers to kick off the school year right

chool bells soon will ring once again. Whether that comes as music to your ears or a bittersweet reminder that free-spirited summer days are over, check out these tips from the pros to help you and your child enjoy a smart, happy start to school.

Push the re-set button. A week or two before school starts, ease back to regular bedtime and morning routines. Nudge kids back into the habit of daily reading if they’ve slacked off and play math games to review. “Think about re-setting structure at home and what changes need to happen so it’s not a total shock to everyone’s system,” says Christine Vohs, a second grade teacher at Cedar Creek Elementary, Olathe. “Anything that you can create that allows for structure and your child’s ownership for success is going to send him to me in a better frame of mind to learn for the day.” Plan ahead for hectic mornings by gathering healthy, simple-to-prepare breakfast ideas packed with nutrients and protein. Wall calendars with activities colorcoded for each family member and daily checklists for each child can help establish expectations and keep your family organized.

Build anticipation. Got a youngster who’s bummed about heading back to

kcparent.com august 2015

school? Stay upbeat. Remind him of curiosity-sparking subjects he’ll get to learn about in the coming year, whether that’s cursive writing, multiplication or a special grade-level project. “Talk to your children about friends they haven’t seen all summer and about new kids joining their classes,” says Megan Jasperson, a first grade teacher at Holy Trinity School, Lenexa. “This is sure to get them excited for the school year to begin.”

Show support. “Avoid teasing your child by saying things like ‘You got the meanest teacher in school!’ or acting as if you’re overjoyed to be sending your child back to school, because this can make him wonder why you’re so eager to be away from him,” says Becky DeNoon, a third grade teacher at Grand Star Elementary, Gardner. Instead, offer encouragement and support. Remind him that it’s normal to feel disappointed about summer break coming to a close but that you’re excited to see how much he’ll learn and grow during the coming months. Be prepared. Peruse school supply lists carefully and read the handouts the school issues to ensure your youngster has everything she needs on the first day of school.

“Kids feel embarrassed on the first day when they aren’t prepared,” Jasperson says.

Reduce uncertainty. Often kids feel nervous about unknowns like transitioning to a teacher they don’t know, a new school or a different set of classroom rules. Take advantage of any back-to-school or orientation events that your school offers to help your apprehensive scholar familiarize herself with the classroom, meet classmates and connect with the teacher before school begins. Knowing what to expect and where to go on the first day will ease some of a child’s anxieties. Seek out friendly faces. If you’ve recently moved to the community or switched schools, look for other families with children your child’s age to arrange a playdate or to meet for frozen yogurt. Some schools also feature parent Facebook pages. Hop on and ask whether anyone would like to get together at the park before school begins. Many parents love to help welcome new families. And these efforts will lessen first-day jitters when your youngster knows she’ll recognize a few familiar faces when she gets there. Have an adolescent heading into middle school? Encourage him to join after-school clubs and activities. His involvement will

help him form connections with peers who share his interests, says Traci Keeler, a sixth grade math teacher and eighth grade volleyball and track coach at South Valley Middle School, Liberty.

Create a homework spot. Designate an area in your home that will encourage focus and concentration and where you can easily jump in to provide assistance when necessary. While purchasing school supplies, also stock a homework caddy or station with scratch paper, pens, pencils, erasers, markers, highlighters and anything else that Junior will need to complete his homework.

Build partnerships. Maintaining open communication and partnering with your student’s teacher is key to a successful school year. “You know your child best, and your insights into your child are helpful to us,” Vohs says.

Introduce yourself to the teacher and tell her the best ways she can contact you. In turn, remember that teachers care about their students’ best interests. Vohs speaks for many of her colleagues when she says, “I hope parents will trust me to make the best possible decisions for their child while he or she is with me.”

Get involved. Help your children start seeing school as an extension of their home life by volunteering periodically. Most kids get a kick out of seeing their parents during the school day, whether they volunteer in the cafeteria, library or the classroom. Unable to volunteer at school? Ask the teacher what you can do to help from home. Freelance journalist Christa Melnyk Hines always loved the back-to-school season as a child and still does. Her two boys don’t share her enthusiasm. Christa is the author of Happy, Healthy & Hyperconnected: Raise a Thoughtful Communicator in a Digital Word.

Is your child nervous about heading back to school? Visit KCParent.com for ways to ease the first day jitters.

Dance• Music• Theatre Classes Begin September 8 ENROLL NOW!

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SCHOOL Tips for success in middle school: • Ask questions when you don’t understand. • Productively struggle and be willing to try. • Listen and follow directions. • Come prepared to class with materials needed. • Participate and show effort. • Set goals and create challenges for yourself. Source: Traci Keeler, South Valley Middle School, Liberty

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kcparent.com august 2015

choosing the best extracurricular activities

brand new school year is upon us, and with it comes an opportunity to sign up your child for any number of extracurricular activities. Here in Kansas City, the sky’s the limit when it comes to options. From swim team to dance class, chess club to music lessons, parents may find themselves swimming in a sea of options. Just how do you determine which ones will be in your child’s best interest? First and foremost, establish what your goals are for adding extra activities into the mix. Whether you want to expose your child to something new, provide an opportunity for him to make new friends or simply have an outlet to release some extra energy, unearthing your motive can help you determine which organization will be the best fit for your family. For instance, if your child wants to try her hand at a new sport but doesn’t want the pressure of intense competition, direct your gaze to recreational leagues geared toward teaching the basics and having fun. However, if your little slugger has determined he wants to be the next Alex Gordon, a competitive league will be just the thing to fine-tune his skills and push him to the next level. Here are some other factors to take into consideration when determining which extracurriculars will be the best fit for your family:

Do Your Homework Discover Your Child’s Passions What makes your son tick? When is your daughter in her element? Talk to your child— and better yet, listen to what he or she has to say over time—to get a deeper understanding of interests, hobbies and creative pursuits. It might be that your child has an interest but hasn’t voiced a desire to do anything about it, simply because he’s unaware that such an activity exists. Do you have a little Lego lover? He might be in hog heaven in a Lego club. Your animal lover could have a ball in a local 4-H chapter. Also, don’t overlook the potential of an unlikely match. Shy children often shine on the stage, while the most wiggly of kids can focus their energy within a karate class.

After you have an idea about what your child is interested in, begin researching what options are available to you. Start with your child’s school. Teachers can provide a host of good options, while consulting with other parents provides insight from families who have already been involved. Other community resources include local recreation centers, churches, gyms, libraries and museums.

And the Grand Total Is… Some extracurriculars are free, but others cost a pretty penny. An activity doesn’t need to be expensive to be high quality, but keep in mind there may be additional costs to take into consideration, from uniforms to supplies to transportation.

Can a child be involved in too many extracurricular activities? Log onto KCParent.com to find out if your child is overscheduled.

kcparent.com august 2015

How Does This Fit the Whole Family? Take into account how your child’s activities affect the family dynamic. Just because a student is capable of tackling music lessons, dance class and sports practices all at once doesn’t mean all those activities are ideal for the family as a whole. Many families limit extracurricular activities per child simply because Mom (or Dad) can only be at one place at one time. Also, be mindful of the expectations for parental involvement within your child’s activities. If parents are required to be present during lessons, provide snacks for the class or fundraise for upcoming events, there’s more involved than just shuffling kids out the door.

SCHOOL It’s Not All for Naught If your child doesn’t excel in art lessons or show talent in gymnastics, there’s no need to consider it a wash. Learning to do something that doesn’t come easy builds character, while finishing an activity to completion develops perseverance. Aim to find the life lesson when an activity is no longer enjoyable and direct your child toward something else that might suit him better in the future.

Start Your Own Some children gravitate toward interests as unique as they are. If you have a hard time finding an established class or club that caters toward your child’s passion, consider starting one yourself!

Get By Giving Dip Your Toes In What are parents to do when they want their child to try an activity without committing their life to it for a semester or more? Look into arts camps and sports clinics! Dance studios, community theater groups and sports organizations often host week-long sessions for budding artists and athletes to give an activity a go without the expense or commitment of signing up for a full session. Starting with these can give children and their parents an idea whether an extracurricular is a good fit or not.

Lauren Greenlee was involved in 4-H, Awana, Suzuki violin lessons and had nine years of classical ballet as a child. She now shuffles her own lot of kids to and from their respective activities while writing from her Olathe home.

One of the most easily overlooked opportunities to enrich a child’s life is community service. Don’t underestimate the difference you and your child can make by seeking ways to make the world around you a better place. Reading to senior citizens at a nursing home, sewing blankets for a pregnancy center or sponsoring a child through an organization such as Compassion International teaches valuable lessons and increases awareness for how your child can use his time and talents to serve those in need.

Did You Know? According to advocacy organization the Afterschool Alliance, there are multiple benefits to extracurricular activities, ranging from better school performance to gained leadership skills to learning how to cope with peer pressure more effectively.

kcparent.com august 2015

Old Schoolhouses of the Kansas City Area

efore your kids head back to school, take a trip back in time and explore one of the areaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s old schoolhouses where children can experience firsthand the life of schoolkids over 100 years ago.

Deanna Rose Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Farmstead 13800 Switzer Rd., Overland Park, KS, 913.897.2360 Open daily 9:00-5:00, April-October; open until 8:00 on Tue. & Thu. Memorial Day-Labor Day. Admission: Mon.-Thu. free, Fri.-Sun. and holidays $2/ea., free/under 2. One of the attractions at the farmstead is the replica 1900 one-room country school. With a slate blackboard and antique desks, children learn what school was like a century ago.

Lanesfield Schoolhouse 18745 S. Dillie Rd., Edgerton, KS, 913.893.6645

history programs, including school lessons, during special events.

Mt. Gilead Church & School 15918 Plattsburg Rd., Kearney, MO, 816.736.8500 Mt. Gilead School, built in 1879, operated for more than a century until it closed its doors in 1946. Historians believe Mt. Gilead was the only school in the area to continuously hold classes during the Civil War.

Oxford Schoolhouse Located in Ironwoods Park, 147th & Mission Road, Leawood, KS, 913.339.6700 x157 Visit the school and talk with a costumed docent about the history of Oxford School and the surrounding rural area. Schedule a program for any group any day of the week year-round (except during Open House hours).

Open Fri. & Sat., 1:00-5:00. Admission is free. Learn about the history of education in Kansas and Johnson County with a visit to the limestone schoolhouse. Visitors learn about education for rural Kansans in the mid-20th century.

Missouri Town 1855 8010 E. Park Rd., Blue Springs, MO, 816.503.4800 Open Tue.-Sun. March 1-Nov. 15, 9:00-4:30; weekends only Nov. 16-Feb. 28, 9:00-4:30. Admission: $5/adults, $3/children 5-13, $3/ seniors 62+. Explore more than 25 buildings dating from 1820 to 1860, including a pioneer school. Interpreters in period attire present living

kcparent.com august 2015

Lanesfield Schoolhouse, Edgerton, KS

SCHOOL

Shawnee Town 1929 11501 W. 57th St., Shawnee, KS, 913.248.2360 Open Tue.-Sat. March-October, 10:00-4:30. Admission: museum tour is $3/adult, $1/ child 5-17, free/under 5 Shawnee Town 1929 depicts a typical day in and around the 1920s farm community, including a one-room schoolhouse.

Shoal Creek Living History Museum 7000 NE Barry Rd., Kansas City, MO, 816.792.2655 Open daily, dawn to dusk. Admission: free. Special events through the year have an admission fee or donation. The living history museum comprises 21 structures with 17 authentic 19th century buildings dating from 1807 to 1885, including a schoolhouse. Learn as children did in times gone by during special events.

JOIN THE CLUB

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horticulture camp

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Overland Park 8424 Farley St. 913.642.6503

Shawnee 7036 Nieman 913.631.6121

Liberty 830 W Liberty Dr. 816.781.0001 kcparent.com august 2015

august

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

CALENDAR

Missouri State Fair

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

kcparent.com august 2015

explore

visit

play

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dance

Visit Powell Gardens July 31- Aug. 2 and Aug. 7-9 when itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s transformed into a temporary butterfly house for the annual Festival of the Butterflies. Storytelling, kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; crafts and much more! PowellGardens.org

After a year-long renovation, The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures reopens on Aug. 1! Bring the family and enjoy all new interactive exhibits and experiences. 816.235.8000

Take your family to the fair! The Missouri State Fair runs Aug. 13-23 in Sedalia. Ride carnival rides, see livestock, watch shows and enjoy the yummy fair food. MOStateFair.com

Head to the Kansas City Zoo on Aug. 16 at 1:30 for the Safari Party. Enjoy live music and cold beverages in the summer sun while the kids take a docent-led tour through Africa. KansasCityZoo.org

The Kansas City Ballet presents the fifth annual KC Dance Day on Aug. 29. Take a free class, watch an open rehearsal of the KC Ballet and enjoy performances throughout the day. KCBallet.org

1 Saturday Harry Potter Day 9:30, Paradise Park. Enjoy wizardry and magic while discovering a few secrets and tricks. Paradise-Park.com Back-to-School Day 10:00, Kansas City Zoo. Enjoy your last days of summer break with exciting activities around the zoo. KansasCityZoo.org Reopening 10:00, the National Museum of Toys and Miniatures. The museum will reopen with new exhibits and experiences! 816.235.8000 Festival of Butterflies Thru Sun and Aug 7-9, Powell Gardens. See hundreds of colorful, free flying butterflies and much more during the signature festival. 816.697.2600 Denim Day 10:00, Children’s Orchard (Blue Springs, Lee’s Summit, KCMO, Olathe). Shop early for your best selection of jeans, jackets and bibs. All denim at CO’s resale prices. ChildOrch.com Nature Nuts Story Time 10:00, 11:00 & 1:00. Anita B Gorman Center. Join volunteer naturalists for a fantastic journey as they read select books. Free. 816.759.7300 Strawberry Swing 10:00, Alexander Majors Barn & Grounds. Handmade vendors, food trucks, kids craft area and much more! TheStrawberrySwing.org Wolf at the Door 10:00, MCPL (Smithville). A unique presentation of traditional fairy tales punctuated with juggling routines. Ages 2+. Free. 816.532.0116 Friendship Day Keepsake 11:00, Lakeshore Learning. Children show true friendship with this adorable handmade craft! Free. LakeshoreLearning.com Open Gym 12:30, Elite Gymnastics & Aquatics. Run, jump and play in the foam pit, rope swings and more. EliteGymSwim.com Hands-on History 1:00, National World War I Museum and Memorial. History is brought to life in this family-friendly program. $6. 816.888.8100 Waterbabies 1:30, Emler Swim School. A free class to introduce parents and babies to the joys of a typical Emler Waterbabies swim class. 913.451.7946 Nature Story Time 1:30, Martha Lafite Thompson Nature Sanctuary. Listen to a naturalist read a tale about an animal and make a fun craft. 816.781.8598 Train Rides 2:00, Belton, Grandview & KC Railroad. Enjoy an oldfashioned train ride Saturday afternoons. 816.331.0630 Fun in the Sun 3:00, Kemper Museum. StoneLion puppets presents this lighthearted marionette review celebrating sunshine with a beach party! Free. 816.753.5784

Back to School

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Mary Poppins 8:00, Starlight Theatre. One of the most popular Disney movies of all time captures hearts in a whole new way on stage. KCStarlight.com

2 Sunday Farmers Market 6:00, the City Market. The market offers a variety of fresh produce, meat, specialty groceries, flowers and gift items from nearby farms. TheCityMarket.org

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I-435, Exit Parallel Pkwy West 913.788.3700 • LegendsShopping.com kcparent.com august 2015

WeekEnder Aug. 7, 5:00, Crown Center. Cap off your week with live music, food trucks and a flick under the stars. Tonight’s movie is Frozen. 816.274.8444

Johnson County Fair Thru Aug 5, Jo Co Fairgrounds (Gardner). Enjoy a wide variety of fun family entertainment. JoCoKansasFair.com Living History Farm Program 10:00, Watkins Woolen Mill. Costumed interpretive staff present life in rural Missouri in the 1870s. 816.580.3387 A Year with Frog and Toad 2:00, the Coterie. Well-loved characters hop from the page to the stage in this musical following two great friends. TheCoterie.org Music in the Park 7:00, Santa Fe Commons Park. Enjoy music under the stars by the Overland Park Civic Band. Free. 913.344.8656

3 Monday Moms FREE Monday 9:30, Paradise Park. Moms are free at the Children’s EduTainment Center with a paid child’s admission. 816.246.5224

Storyland: A Trip Through Childhood Favorites Thru Sept 7, Crown Center. An exhibit that transforms children’s books into play and learning environments. Free. CrownCenter.com Summer Movie Series 10:00, Blue Springs 8. Free movies and $6 kid combos (soda, popcorn and candy). Titles this week: Madagascar and The Princess Bride. 816.224.0551 Power Hour 1:00, Little Monkey Bizness. Arrive between 1:00 and 3:00 on Mondays and Wednesdays and admission is just $5 plus tax! 913.631.7000

4 Tuesday Kiddie Pool Playtime 9:30, Mission Family Aquatic Center. Time for young kids and families to use spray pad and leisure pool before entire facility opens. 913.722.8200

Free Summer Movies Thru Thursday, Phoenix Theatre (Legends). Cool off from the summer heat with a free movie. Different movies each week. Doors open at 9:00. PhoenixTheatres.com Pay-for-Play 10:00, Backyard Specialists. Kids explore 17 play sets and munch on snacks at the picnic tables. $2. 913.307.6023 Token Tuesdays 10:00, Cool Crest. Buy $20 worth of tokens and receive $20 worth for free! CoolCrest.com

Warrior HooPs is a faith-based

Fall/Winter session tryouts in late august at Drive 5 gym in overlanD Park

basketball program that is dedicated to affecting a positive change in the lives of our players. Our passion is to teach kids in the areas of personal skill development, sportsmanship, and team dynamics as a part of a holistic approach to basketball and life in general. We provide a fun, safe, and encouraging environment for any child to grow and become part of the Warrior Family.

Boys & girls ages 8-18

As a parent, I am thankful that I can give my children the level of coaching, dedication, and passion you bring to every practice and game! I’ve seen tremendous growth both on and off the court in both of my children since joining the Warrior Hoops Family. Believe me, I do talk to both of my kids about how blessed they are to be apart of Warrior Hoops! – SHANNON B., OLATHE

FinD more inFormation & register For tryouts at WarriorHooPskc.com

kcparent.com august 2015

$5 Pasta Day Cupini’s. Choose a fresh pasta with one of three sauces made fresh daily. Dine in or carry out. Cupinis.com

5 Wednesday Toddler Town on Tour 9:30, Glendale Park (Independence). Enjoy summer fun while exploring different playgrounds. Simple craft projects. ci.Independence.mo.us Modern Art Adventures 10:00, Johnson County Museum. Create Georgia O’Keefeinspired paintings. Parents must stay with children. $3. Pre-reg at 913.715.2575. Children’s Corner 10:00, Tomahawk Ridge Community Center. A fun, free morning of entertainment for little ones. Today’s performer is Dino O’Dell. 913.895.6390 White Glove Wednesday 11:00, Harry S Truman Library and Museum. Learn about rare artifacts housed at the presidential library. 816.268.8200

6 Thursday Kiddie Pool Playtime 9:30, Mission Family Aquatic Center. Time for young kids and families to use spray pad and leisure pool before entire facility opens. 913.722.8200

Preschool Bowling 10:00, Mission Bowl (Olathe). Receive one game of bowling, shoes, ball and a soft drink for only $3. MissionBowl.com

Festival of Butterflies Thru Sun, Powell Gardens. See hundreds of colorful, free flying butterflies and much more during the signature festival. 816.697.2600

Time Travelers 10:00, Shawnee Town 1929. Living history comes to life in this family oriented program. Farm activities, crafts, gardening and more. ShawneeTown.org

Story Time 10:30 & 11:15, Wonderscope. Join us in our ArtWorks Exhibit for story time. This is free with museum admission. Wonderscope.org

Into the Woods Thru Sunday, Yardley Hall. The Culture House presents one of the most popular, most produced and most beloved shows in theater history. CultureHouse.com Moonlight Movies 9:00, Pharaoh Theater Parking Lot. Free outdoor movie shown every Thursday. Fun outdoor family time together! Concession stand is available onsite. FreeMoonlightMovies.com

7 Friday

First Fridays 5:00, Crossroads Art District. Galleries and shops remain open the first Friday of each month. KCCrossroads.org WeekEnder 5:00, Crown Center Square. Cap off your week with live music, food trucks and a flick under the stars. Tonight’s movie is Frozen. 816.274.8444 Tween Night 6:30, Paint, Glaze & Fire. Don’t spend Friday night at home. Come for pizza, painting and fun. $25 includes pizza, drink and pottery (up to $18). 913.661.2529

Hot Summer Days 10:00, Overland Park Arboretum. Water games for the entire family— prepare to get wet! Make ice cream and enjoy icy treats. $3. 913.685.3604

Blues & Jazz Fest 7:00, Lee’s Summit City Hall Plaza. Free, family friendly concert from local bands. Food and drink vendors available. 816.969.1500

Back-to-School Tax-Free Weekend Thru Sun, Children’s Orchard (Blue Springs, Lee’s Summit, KCMO, Olathe). Shop and save your state taxes, even at Olathe location. ChildOrch.com

Family Night Out 7:00, Martha Lafite Thompson Nature Sanctuary. Camp inside the nature center. Enjoy hiking, astronomy and owl prowling. $50/person. Pre-reg at 816.781.8598.

kcparent.com august 2015

Movie in the Park Webb Park (Oak Grove). Bring blankets and chairs and settle in for a fun night with the family under the stars. CityOfOakGrove.com Seussical Thru Sunday, Gladstone Theatre in the Park. Bring the family and enjoy a performance of Seussical for free at this outdoor community theater. 816.423.4091

8 Saturday Summer Fest 8:00, Grinter Place. Celebrate summer with children’s games, kite flying, horse shoe tournaments and more. Tour the Grinter home. 913.299.0373 Angie Smith 9:00, Lenexa Baptist Church. Angie’s message of hope, healing and faith in Christ is perfect for women of all ages and seasons of life. $20. LenexaBaptist.com/women Open Hangar Days 9:00, CAF Heart of America Wing Hangar. Lots of fun games and activities geared toward the entire family. Free. 913.461.6777 Community Carnival First Baptist Church of Olathe. Enjoy lots of fun activities with your family at the carnival. FBCOlathe.org

Free Weekend Today & tomorrow, Deanna Rose. Bring the family to the farmstead this weekend and enjoy free admission. 913.895.6390 Zootastik Learning Fest 10:00, Kansas City Zoo. Activities, demonstrations and crafts will take place in the main lobby. Today’s animal: migratory birds. KansasCityZoo.org Time Travelers 10:00, Shawnee Town 1929. Living history comes to life in this family oriented program. Farm activities, crafts, gardening and more. ShawneeTown.org

Sprint Family Fun Days 11:00, KC Power & Light District. Bring your family out to Sprint Family Fun Days. Today’s theme is Ice Cream Social. PowerAndLightDistrict.com Keeping Cool! Door Hanger 11:00, Lakeshore Learning. Kids quench their thirst for summer fun with this door hanger craft. Free. LakeshoreLearning.com Second Saturdays 4:00, Downtown Weston. Stroll into unique gift shops and galleries for late night shopping and in-store specials. WestonMO.com

Open House 10:00, Primrose School of Overland Park. Enjoy face painting, crafts and tour the school. Learn about new location in North Olathe, opening spring 2016. 913.400.2435

Saturday Night Feeder Saturdays thru Oct, 4:00, Cedar Cove Feline Sanctuary. Watch the cats being fed. $5. 816.739.0363

Open House 10:00, Backyard Specialists. Play on the lot for free! Also enjoy an inflatable and free snow cones! Free. 913.307.6023

Animal Show-n-Tell Day 7:00, Clinton State Park (Lawrence). Get a close-up look at the live animals display. Lots of prize drawings. Pre-reg at 785.842.8562.

ReptiDay 10:00, Abdallah Shrine Center. One-day reptile event featuring reptile pets, supplies, cages and more, as well as seminars and raffles. ReptiDay.com

Movie in the Park 8:30, Cornerstone Park (Gardner). Bring a blanket and lawn chairs and enjoy Goonies under the stars. Free. GardnerKansas.gov

Summer Nature Walks 10:30 & 2:30, Fort Osage. A naturalist takes visitors on a guided tour along the banks of the Missouri River. $3-$7. 816.503.4860

Glowing Bike Ride 9:00, Young Park (Blue Springs). A fun night ride through Blue Springs. Decorate yourself and/or bike with glow sticks. $25-$30. Pre-reg at BlueSpringsGov.com.

Cool & Creative on hot summer days FREE STUDIO FEE

(up to $8 value)

and

1/2 PRICE DRINK

Offer expires 8/31/15. One coupon per customer per visit. No reproductions accepted. May not be combined with any other offers. No cash value. KCP 0815

paintglazeandfire.net 127th & Metcalf • Overland Park, KS

913-661-CLAY

kcparent.com august 2015

9 Sunday Gridiron Glory Thru Sept 6, Union Station. Come experience the best of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, only at Union Station. UnionStation.org KC Northern Railroad Rides Noon, Vaydik Line Creek Park. Restored trains run on a half-mile track. Cost is $0.75/ride. KCNRR.com Into the Woods 1:30, Yardley Hall. The Culture House presents one of the most popular, most produced and most beloved shows in theater history. CultureHouse.com Story Time for Preschoolers 1:30, NelsonAtkins Museum. Drop in for story time in the Creative Café. Free. Nelson-Atkins.org Boomerang Bash 1:30, Kansas City Zoo. Enjoy live music and cold beverages in the summer sun while the kids take a docent-led walking tour through Australia. KansasCityZoo.org Music in the Park 6:00, Rotary Park (Blue Springs). Bring a blanket and enjoy music in a park setting. Tonight’s band is Loozin’ Sleep. Free. 816.228.0137

Love at first bite!

Preschool Bowling At Mission Bowl thursdays from 10 am to 1 pm

IntroducIng

TUESDAY

$5 PASTA DAY Receive One game Shoes Bumpers Light-weight bowling balls One soft drink

For only $3! Children 5 and under

Mission Bowl-olAthe 1020 S Weaver Olathe, KS 66061 913.782.0279 www.missionbowl.com

ZAGAT RATED TOP 1000 ITALIAN RESTAURANTS

Choose from one of our fresh pastas with one of our three sauces made fresh that day

Dine in or carry out!

1809 Westport Road, Kansas City, MO

816.753.7662

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WE CATER OFFICE PARTIES & WEDDINGS

kcparent.com august 2015

Red Carpet 5K Aug. 15, 7:30, Lone Elm Park (Olathe). A family-friendly 5K benefiting the Culture House’s STAR program, serving at-risk youth in KC. RedCarpet5K.com

10 Monday Story Time for Toddlers 9:30, MCPL (North Oak). Enjoy a fun and interactive story time just for toddlers and their caregivers. Free. 816.436.4385 Moms FREE Monday 9:30, Paradise Park. Moms are free at the Children’s EduTainment Center with a paid child’s admission. 816.246.5224 Visit Science City 10:00, Science City (Union Station). New exhibits, hands-on activities for the entire family, workshops, demonstrations and more! UnionStation.org Power Hour 1:00, Little Monkey Bizness. Arrive between 1:00 and 3:00 on Mondays and Wednesdays and admission is just $5 plus tax! 913.631.7000

11 Tuesday Token Tuesdays 10:00, Cool Crest. Buy $20 worth of tokens and receive $20 worth for free! CoolCrest.com

five

Coffee Playground 10:00, OP First Assembly of God. Free play in the gym for kids 5 and under. Inflatables, scooters, balls and other toys! OverlandParkMOPS.com Pay-for-Play 10:00, Backyard Specialists. Kids can explore 17 play sets and munch on snacks at the picnic tables. $2. 913.307.6023 Creative Story Time 11:00, Ceramic Café. Hear a story, create a pottery piece and enjoy a simple snack. 913.383.0222 Family Feast Pizza Shoppe. Every Tuesday enjoy a king size single topping pizza, two house salads and garlic cheese bread for only $18.99. PizzaShoppe.com

12 Wednesday Farmers Market 7:00, Downtown Lee’s Summit. Shop for a variety of fresh produce, plants, meat, baked goods, crafts and more. 816.246.6598

Aug. 10 is National S’mores Day! Enjoy a unique take on the summer classic at one of these restaurants, where they’ve upped the ante and improved the s’more with their own personal touch! (1615 W. 39th St., Kansas City, MO, 816.931.4539). Their s’mores cupcake is a fresh-baked chocolate cupcake with a graham cracker crust, swirled with graham cracker crumbs and chocolate bits, topped with vanilla frosting and a s’more.

S’mores Cheesecake at the Cheesecake Factory (Two local

locations: TheCheesecakeFactory. com). Among their parade of tasty cheesecakes, the Toasted Marshmallow S’mores Galore™ is a decadent treat. The Hershey’s ® cheesecake topped with chocolate ganache, toasted house-made marshmallow and graham crackers is a first-rate dessert.

Classic S’mores at Tomfooleries

(Country Club Plaza, 612 W. 47th St., Kansas City, MO, 816.753.0555). Go classic and

kcparent.com august 2015

Toddler Town on Tour 9:30, Rotary Park. Enjoy summer fun while exploring various playgrounds. Bring towel and swim gear to this location. ci.Independence.mo.us Stories for Ones 9:30, Waldo Library. Bring your 1-year-old to a story time geared toward this age group. 816.701.3486

Delicious Ways to Enjoy S’mores in KC

S’mores Cupcakes at Mudpie Bakery

Pop ‘n Play 9:00, Johnson County Museum. A drop-in program with age-appropriate activities for children 9 months to 3 years old. 913.715.2550

order their campfire s’mores for dessert, a graham cracker sandwich filled with gooey melted marshmallows and Hershey’s chocolate.

S’mores Concrete at Sheridan’s Frozen Custard (Locations:

SheridansFrozenCustard.com). This sweet spot serves the best frozen concretes in town, and the s’mores concrete is a top pick! Chocolate, marshmallows and graham crackers blended with your choice of vanilla or chocolate frozen custard make a sweet treat perfect on a hot summer day.

S’mores Fondue at the Melting Pot: (Country Club Plaza, 450 Ward

Pkwy., Kansas City, MO, 816.931.6358). Chocolate s’mores fondue is a decadent treat perfect for sharing! Dip fresh strawberries, bananas, pineapple, marshmallows, pound cake, brownies and blondies in a delicious milk chocolate fondue with marshmallow cream, flambéed and topped with bits of graham crackers.

Kids Concert 10:30, Downtown OP (clock tower). Rockin’ Rob puts on a show the kids are sure to love. Free. DowntownOP.org

13 Thursday Missouri State Fair Thru Aug 23, Sedalia. The 400-acre fairground in Sedalia features livestock shows, competitive exhibits, carnival rides and more! MOStateFair.com

14 Friday Story Time 10:30 & 11:15, Wonderscope. Join us in our ArtWorks Exhibit for story time. This is free with museum admission. Wonderscope.org Story Time 11:00, Reader’s World Lee’s Summit. Every Friday enjoy story time with a story, crafts and a snack. Free. 816.246.7323

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

Back-to-School Sale Today & tomorrow, Children’s Orchard (Blue Springs, Lee’s Summit, KCMO, Olathe). Buy two, get one free on regular priced clothing. ChildOrch.com

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

Family Fun Night 5:30, Paint, Glaze & Fire. Spend the night painting pottery and making memories! $25 includes four studio fees, large pizza and drinks. 913.661.2529

Preschool Bowling 10:00, Mission Bowl (Olathe). Receive one game of bowling, shoes, ball and a soft drink for only $3. MissionBowl.com

Ice Cream Train 7:00, Belton, Grandview & KC Railroad. Enjoy a train ride and an ice cream treat. A great summer evening! 816.331.6630

Visit the Museum 10:00, National Museum of Toys and Miniatures. After a remodel, the Museum is open and better than ever! $5. 816.235.8000

Sounds on the Square 7:00, Linden Square (Gladstone). Enjoy the sounds of Kansas native Travis Marin under the stars. LindenSquare.info Back-to-School Drive 8:00, Spring Hill Sports Complex. School supply drive and movie night. See Hotel Transylvania. Free. 913.592.2214

The Perseid Meteor Shower 10:00, TimberRidge Adventure Center. A 45-minute program about the meteor shower followed by on-your-own stargazing. $9-$10. 913.831.3359

15 Saturday Red Carpet 5K 7:30, Lone Elm Park (Olathe). A family-friendly 5K benefiting the Culture House’s STAR program. RedCarpet5K.com Tails on the Trails 9:00, Ad Astra Park (Lenexa). Pet-centered vendor booths, pet swims, pet talent show and safety demonstrations. Free admission; charge to swim. 913.477.7100 How to Homeschool Workshop 9:30, Antioch Library. Learn from experienced homeschool veterans as they share from personal experience. Free. 913-599-0311 What’s Out at Night 10:00, Lakeside Nature Center. Learn about bats, owls, raccoons, opossums and some surprising species. 816.513.8960 Scavenger Saturdays 10:00, Kemper Museum of Art. Follow the clues on this “ART-astic” adventure! 816.753.5784

kcparent.com august 2015

Ethnic Enrichment Festival Aug. 21-23, Swope Park. Festival features more than 60 nations that sell native foods and crafts and offer performances of ethnic music and dances. $3. KCParks.org

Wet and Wild! 10:00, Anita B Gorman Discovery Center. Identify macro invertebrates, get up close with aquatic wildlife and enjoy more hands-on activities. 816.513.7500

Kids Night Out at the Y 5:00, North Kansas City YMCA. Children ages 2-11 will enjoy a fun night at the Y while parents get a night out. $15-$25. 816.300.0531

Archeology Day 10:00, Ft Osage. Professional archaeologists will present an overview of more than 60 years of investigations. $3-$7. 816.503.4860

Back-to-School Bash 7:00, Paradise Park. Bring a lawn chair or blanket to sit on and relax while you enjoy live local music under the stars. Paradise-Park.com

Summer Breeze Wind Chime 11:00, Lakeshore Learning. Enjoy the windy days of summer with beaded wind chimes. Free. LakeshoreLearning.com

SummerDusk 7:00, The Collonade at Concourse Park. Free, family-friendly concert. Bring a blanket, chair and a cooler and enjoy sounds under the stars. NortheastArtsKC.org

Waterbabies 1:30, Emler Swim School. A free class to introduce parents and babies to the joys of a typical Emler Waterbabies swim class. 913.451.7946

Stargazing Party 7:30, Battle of Lexington. Slide show to begin the evening. At dusk, visit the top of the battlefield, where telescopes will be set up. MoStateParks.com

Saturday Night Feeder Saturdays thru Oct, 4:00, Cedar Cove Feline Sanctuary. Watch the cats being fed. $5. 816.739.0363

16 Sunday Jackson County Triathlon 7:30, Longview Lake. Long-running race presented by Elite Cycling. JacksonCountyTriathlon.com

Touch-a-Truck 11:00, Overland Park Convention Center. Sit in the driver’s seat, sit or stand on the back of the trucks and participate in activities. Free. 913.339.3067. KC Kosher BBQ Competition and Festival 11:00, Ritz Charles. Fabulous food and fun. Live entertainment and activities for all ages. Free. 913.210.4174 art + family = FUN 1:00, Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Join us every Saturday and Sunday for free activities for all ages! 816.751.1278

CURIOUS GEORGE 3:

Back to the Jungle Monday, August 17 8am & 3pm

kcpt.org

kcparent.com august 2015

Curious George goes on an epic adventure to space and crash lands in the jungles of Africa, leading to an unforgettable journey with some new animal friends.

Safari Party 1:30, Kansas City Zoo. Enjoy live music and cold beverages in the summer sun while the kids take a docent-led walking tour through Africa. KansasCityZoo.org

So much

NEW to SEE & DO

Train Rides 2:00, Belton, Grandview & KC RR. Enjoy an old-fashioned train ride Saturdays and Sundays through October. 816.331.0630 Music in the Park 6:00, Rotary Park (Blue Springs). Bring a blanket and enjoy music in a park setting. Tonight’s band is Loose Change. Free. 816.228.0137

at Science City – Union Station Huge New Exhibits & Open Year Round!

17 Monday

• Named a Top 25 Science Center in America by Parents Magazine

Curious George 3: Back to the Jungle 8:00 & 3:00, KCPT. Curious George goes on an epic adventure in the jungles of Africa! KCPT.org

• Fun, hands-on activities for the whole family • Educator-led workshops and demonstrations • Includes KC Rail Experience in ticket price (Double your fun!)

Gridiron Glory Thru Sept 6, Union Station. Come experience the best of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, only at Union Station. UnionStation.org

Spend a few hours or an entire day with us

at Kansas City’s Science Center!

Power Hour 1:00, Little Monkey Bizness. Arrive between 1:00 and 3:00 on Mondays and Wednesdays and admission is just $5 plus tax! 913.631.7000

ScienceCity.org Proud to be a

Smithsonian Affiliate

TRAIN RIDES

TrainDayRides Ice Cream Train Rides Ice Cream Train Family Food Pumpkin ExpressTrain Train Train Grandparents $8.50

8/31/15

1200 Kansas City Road Olathe, Kansas 913.971.5111

Activities vary by season Wild West Days September 26 & 27 Visit www.mahaffie.org

$9.50 $9.50 $10.50 $10.00 ofSaturday the 8th, 15th 22nd September 11,Depart one grandparent Regular Trains Regular Trains Depart EveryRides Every Friday,in October weekends 2ndFriday of theand month Sat & Sun, 2 pm (May Oct) June Aug Sat & Sun, 2 pm [May Oct] Trains depart at 12:30, 2:00 and 3:30 June Aug, rides FREE with a paid child’s admission! June - Aug 7 pm Sat., 11 am [June -Closed Aug Sundays only] in July and Aug 7 pm 7 pm Sat, 11 am (June - Aug only)

Kids under three FREE

Charters •• Field Trips or Birthday Parties, plan by appointment. Field Trips or Birthday Parties, plan by appointment.

Charters

Tickets sale one one hour hourbefore beforetrain traindeparture departuretime. time. Tickets go go on on sale

Belton, Grandview & Kansas City Railroad Co.

502 Walnut •Belton, Missouri • 816-331-0630 • www.beltonrailroad.org kcparent.com august 2015

take note: august ’15

Aug. 2, Ice Cream Sandwich Day: Homemade cookies and ice cream sandwiched together for the perfect summer treat—this delicacy is best enjoyed at Murray’s in Westport (4120 Pennsylvania Ave., Ste. 14, Kansas City, MO, 816.931.5646).

Aug. 12, Middle Child Day: When was the last time you enjoyed one-on-one time with your middle child? Celebrate him or her today. Find ideas on KCParent. com with a search for “Parent Child Dates.”

Aug. 1, National Mustard Day:

Aug. 16, Tell a Joke Day: Kids love a good joke! You’ll

One of Kansas City’s original burger joints, Fred P. Ott’s (find all three locations at FredPOttsKC.com) serves classic burgers and sandwiches, and you dress them with your favorite mustard (and other toppings) at their condiment bar.

Aug. 19, National Aviation Day: Make plans to attend the KC Aviation Expo (KCAirShow.com) Aug. 22-23 at Wheeler Downtown Airport. Watch as the U.S. Navy Blue Angels, the U.S. Army Golden Knights, the Trojan Phlyers and more airplanes perform at the air show.

find lots of fun things, including joke books and harmless pranks, at U.S. Toy (2008 W. 103rd Ter., Leawood, KS, 913.642.8247. Tip: Use our coupon on pg. 4).

Aug. 26, National Dog Day: Take your favorite four-legged friend to the park. There are many great dog parks to enjoy across the metro. Find one near you at DogsLifeKC.com/DogParks.html.

NEED COPY

kcparent.com august 2015

Aug. 31, Trail Mix Day: We don’t need an excuse to shop at Trader Joe’s (two locations in the metro: TraderJoes.com), but if we did, their trail mix would be a great one! The variety of combinations and individual packs are the perfect healthy snack for family outings.

Aug. 11-20, Nominate Your Faves: Log onto KCParent.com and nominate your favorite businesses in KC Parent’s annual Family Faves contest. Come back and vote in September!

Saturday Night Feeder Saturdays thru Oct, 4:00, Cedar Cove Feline Sanctuary. Watch the cats being fed. $5. 816.739.0363

18 Tuesday Missouri State Fair Thru Aug 23, Sedalia. The 400-acre fairground in Sedalia features livestock shows, competitive exhibits, carnival rides and more! MOStateFair.com Pay-for-Play 10:00, Backyard Specialists. Kids explore 17 play sets and munch on snacks at the picnic tables. $2. 913.307.6023 Coffee Playground 10:00, OP First Assembly of God. Free play in the gym for kids 5 and under. Inflatables, scooters, balls and other toys! OverlandParkMOPS.com Tots on Tuesday 11:00, Kemper Museum. Bring in your preschooler for a fun and fashionable get-together every third Tuesday. 816.753.5784 $5 Pasta Day Cupini’s. Choose a fresh pasta with one of three sauces made fresh daily. Dine in or carry out. Cupinis.com

19 Wednesday Farmers Market 7:00, Downtown Lee’s Summit. Shop for a variety of fresh produce, plants, meat, baked goods, crafts and more. 816.246.6598 Stories for Ones 9:30, Waldo Library. Bring your 1-year-old to a story time geared toward this age group. 816.701.3486 Toddler Town on Tour 9:30, Sycamore Hills Park. Enjoy summer fun while exploring various playgrounds. Bring towel and swim gear to this location. ci.Independence.mo.us Nature Connects Thru Sept 7, Powell Gardens. Built from more than 300,000 Lego bricks, this special exhibit features 25 amazing sculptures. PowellGardens.org

Bye, Bye, Birdie 8:00, Paradise Park. Watch the Summit Theatre Group perform this all-time favorite that will bring back all the memories of Elvis. SummitTheatre.org Movies on the Riverfront 8:30, Richard L Berkely Riverfront Park. Bring lawn chairs and blankets to watch a free movie. Don’t forget your own snacks. Free. Facebook.com/kcriverfest

21 Friday Parkville Days Thru Aug 23, English Landing Park. Great family fun in historic downtown Parkville. Something for everyone! ParkvilleMo.org Junior Jaunts 10:15, Nelson-Atkins. Bring your baby in a stroller or carrier for an adult-focused, yet infant friendly, mini museum tour. Nelson-Atkins.org Paint Me a Story 10:30, Paint, Glaze and Fire. Paint a pottery piece that goes along with a favorite story. Snack included. $13-$15. Pre-reg. 913.661.2529

22 Saturday Buffalo Bill Days Today & tomorrow, Haymarket Square (Leavenworth). Live music, historical entertainers, vendors, outhouse race and more. 913.306.0944 KC Aviation Expo Today & tomorrow, Wheeler Downtown Airport. The Midwest’s premier air show featuring the Blue Angels, US Army Golden Knights and more! KCAirShow.com Animal Antics! Paper Pal 11:00, Lakeshore Learning. Children craft one-of-a-kind 3D animals that are sure to stimulate hours of imaginative play! Free. LakeshoreLearning.com

Missouri State Fair Thru Aug 23, Sedalia. The 400-acre fairground in Sedalia features livestock shows, competitive exhibits, carnival rides and more! MOStateFair.com

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

3rd Friday Art Walk 5:30, Englewood Station Arts District. Tour the art galleries. View live performances and artists on the sidewalks in front of shops. EnglewoodStation.com

Daily Life on the Oregon Trail 1:00, Nat’l Frontier Trails Museum. Explore part of a typical day on the way west with your family. $3-$6. 816.325.7575

Ethnic Enrichment Festival Thru Sunday, Swope Park. Festival features more than 60 nations that sell native foods and crafts and offer performances of ethnic music and dances. $3. KCParks.org

Waterbabies 1:30, Emler Swim School. A free class to introduce parents and babies to the joys of a typical Emler Waterbabies swim class. 913.451.7946

Ice Cream Train 7:00, Belton, Grandview & KC Railroad. Enjoy a train ride and an ice cream treat. A great summer evening! 816.331.6630

Nature Story Time 1:30, Martha Lafite Thompson Nature Sanctuary. Listen to a naturalist read a tale about an animal and make a fun craft. 816.781.8598

Sensory Time 9:00, Johnson County Museum. Kidscape can be loud; this special time is for kids with sensory integration and processing needs. 913.715.2575

Sounds on the Square 7:00, Linden Square (Gladstone). Enjoy the sounds of the Carl Worden Band under the stars. LindenSquare.info

Bacon-Fest 2:00, Ameristar Casino & Hotel. Enjoy all things bacon while helping newly disabled children and adults. BaconFestKC.com

Third Thursdays 5:00, Martin City. Shop and dine in Martin City while supporting local community organizations. MartinCity.org

Movies in the Park 8:00, the View (Grandview). Bring blankets and lawn chairs to see Guardians of the Galaxy. Concessions will be sold. GrandviewParks.org

Our Amazing Moon 8:00, Powell Observatory. Enjoy a talk, tour of the observatory and (if skies are clear) viewing of the moon through various telescopes. $4-$6. ASKC.org

20 Thursday

kcparent.com august 2015

23 Sunday Farmers Market 6:00, the City Market. The market offers a variety of fresh produce, meat, specialty groceries, flowers and gift items from nearby farms. TheCityMarket.org Blessing of the Animals 10:00, St Peter’s United Church of Christ. Dogs, cats and other critters will be blessed at the annual event during the morning service. Free. 913.262.7414

Storyland: A Trip Through Childhood Favorites Thru Sept 7, Crown Center. An exhibit that transforms children’s books into play and learning environments. Free. CrownCenter.com Power Hour 1:00, Little Monkey Bizness. Arrive between 1:00 and 3:00 on Mondays and Wednesdays and admission is just $5 plus tax! 913.631.7000

25 Tuesday

26 Wednesday Farmers Market 7:30, Downtown Overland Park. Shop for fresh produce, flowers and more. Free. 913.642.2222 Preteen Preparatory Course Thru October, Hoffman International. Modeling, acting and self-improvement class for girls 9-12. HoffmanModels.com

KC Northern Railroad Rides Noon, Vaydik Line Creek Park. Restored trains run on a half-mile track. Cost is $0.75/ride. KCNRR.com

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

Toddler Town on Tour 9:30, McCoy Park. Enjoy summer fun while exploring various playgrounds. Bring towel and swim gear to this location. ci.Independence.mo.us

Music in the Park 6:00, Rotary Park (Blue Springs). Bring a blanket and enjoy music in a park setting. Tonight’s band is Outlaw Jimmy and the Whiskey Benders. Free. 816.228.0137

Visit Science City 10:00, Science City (Union Station). New exhibits, hands-on activities for the entire family, workshops, demonstrations and more! UnionStation.org

Janie Next Door 10:00, Johnson County Museum. Join the fun as local musician, singer and songwriter Janie Next Door presents her show. Pre-reg at 913.715.2552.

24 Monday

Preparatory Course Thru October, Hoffman Models. Modeling, acting and self-improvement class for girls 13 and older. HoffmanModels.com

The Four Seasons Thru Oct 18, Nelson-Atkins. See 15-foot sculptures by contemporary artist Philip Haas in the Sculpture Park. Nelson-Atkins.org

Family Feast Pizza Shoppe. Every Tuesday enjoy a king size single topping pizza, two house salads and garlic cheese bread for only $18.99. PizzaShoppe.com

27 Thursday

Moms FREE Monday 9:30, Paradise Park. Moms are free at the Children’s EduTainment Center with a paid child’s admission. 816.246.5224 Visit the Museum 10:00, National Museum of Toys and Miniatures. After a remodel, the Museum is open and better than ever! $5. 816.235.8000

Gridiron Glory Thru Sept 6, Union Station. Come experience the best of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, only at Union Station. UnionStation.org

KC DANCE DAY • AUGUS T

2 9 , 201 5 •

FREE dance classes FREE local & world dance performances

HOSTED AT

THE

TODD BOLENDER CENTER FOR DANCE & CREATIVITY HOME OF

FOR THE FULL EVENT SCHEDULE:

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kcparent.com august 2015

Event sponsored in part by:

Preschool Bowling 10:00, Mission Bowl (Olathe). Receive one game of bowling, shoes, ball and a soft drink for only $3. MissionBowl.com Farmers Market 3:00, Loop Rd (between Walnut & Chestnut). Local farmers market with fresh produce. Buy local, eat local. MainstreetBelton.com Tiblow Days Thru Saturday, Bonner Springs. Community event includes a parade, musical entertainment, barbecue competition, car show and more! BSEDWChamber.org

28 Friday Story Time 10:30 & 11:15, Wonderscope. Join us in our ArtWorks Exhibit for story time. This is free with museum admission. Wonderscope.org Roots Festival Today & tomorrow, Paola Town Square. Join us for two days of great live music and a barbecue contest. RootsFestival.org Kids Night Out 5:30, Paint, Glaze and Fire. Leave your kids with us while you enjoy a night out. They’ll have a great time eating pizza and painting pottery. $25. 913.661.2529 Ice Cream Train 7:00, Belton, Grandview & KC Railroad. Enjoy a train ride and an ice cream treat. A great summer evening! 816.331.6630

Shop & SAVE BIG!!! 2 Great Sales - New Location!!!

Overland Park Convention Center

Don’t just SHOP, CONSIGN with us too!

Thur & Fri 9am-8pm | Sat & Sun 9am-5pm

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September 3-6

Sunday is the AWESOME 50% off sale!

October 9-11

Fri 9am-8pm | Sat & Sun 9am-5pm Sunday is the AWESOME 50% off sale!

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• SHOP and get unbelievable deals on brand-name favorites! • SELL your items as a consignor and earn up to 70%! • SMART! There’s no better budget helper around! Find all the details online!

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Admission $2 first day, all other days free admission! Shoppers - we accept Cash, Visa, Mastercard, Discover and Debit Cards.

North America’s Leading Children’s and Maternity Consignment Sales Event.™

Creative Fun for All Ages Glass Fusing • Pottery Painting • Clay Workshops

Ask about our summer camps, birthday parties and monthly classes

913-383-0222 www.ceramiccafekc.com

Creative Fun for All Ages Glass Fusing • Pottery Painting • Clay Workshops

• Glass Fusing

Ask about our summer camps, birthday andPainting monthly classes • parties Pottery

• Clay Workshops

Creative Fun for All Ages Ask about our school fundraisers, Glass Fusing • Pottery Painting • Clay Workshops

birthday parties and monthly classes

Ask about our summer camps, Creative Fun Allclasses Ages 913-383-0222 birthday parties andfor monthly

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www.ceramiccafekc.com Glass Fusing • Pottery Painting • Clay Workshops Ask about our summer camps, birthday parties and monthly classes

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14024 W. 119TH ST. OLATHE, KS 913-829-8818 KCTIGERROCK.COM kcparent.com august 2015

Sounds on the Square 7:00, Linden Square (Gladstone). Experience Lyin’ Eyes, an Eagles tribute band, and spend the night singing and dancing to your favorites! LindenSquare.info

SnowZoo Today & tomorrow, Kansas City Zoo. Beat the heat with the animals! Check out all the cool action from 10:00 to 3:00. KansasCityZoo.org

Forks ‘n Tunes 7:00, Mosaic Life Care. Enjoy a live band, food and beverages for purchase and activities to get you grooving to the music! MyMosaicLifeCare.org

Summer Arts & Fun Fest 10:00, Overland Park Christian Church. Children’s carnival, arts and crafts fair, used book sale, live performances and food trucks. 913.954.2614

29 Saturday

Kids in the Kitchen 10:00, K-State Research and Extension. Learn the basics of cooking authentic Italian foods. Ages 7-12. $10. 913.715.7000

Kids Triathlon 8:00, Kill Creek Park. Kids compete in a race against similar age groups, completing swim, bike and run portions. 913.826.2950 KC Dance Day 9:00, Bolender Center. Free dance classes and free performances. View an open rehearsal by Kansas City Ballet dancers! KCBallet.org Living the Great War Today & tomorrow, World War I Museum. Living historians will share their knowledge. Educational programs throughout the weekend. Free. TheWorldWar.org An Agricultural Century 9:00, Missouri Town 1855. Experience the evolution of farming in the Midwest during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. $3-$5. 816.503.4860

kcparent.com august 2015

Bug Buddy 11:00, Lakeshore Learning. Kids will be abuzz about this cute buggy craft using beads and pipe cleaners. Free. LakeshoreLearning.com Saturday Night Feeder Saturdays thru Oct, 4:00, Cedar Cove Feline Sanctuary. Watch the cats being fed. $5. 816.739.0363 Let’s Build a Telescope 8:00, Powell Observatory. Enjoy a talk, tour of the observatory and (if skies are clear) viewing of the moon through various telescopes. $4-$6. ASKC.org

30 Sunday Farmers Market 6:00, the City Market. The market offers a variety of fresh produce, meat, specialty groceries, flowers and gift items from nearby farms. TheCityMarket.org India Fest 2015 11:00, Overland Park Convention Center. Celebrate with artifacts, food, jewelry, clothes, dances, sales and a gala fashion parade. 913.832.4362 art + family = FUN 1:00, Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Join us every Saturday and Sunday for free activities for all ages! 816.751.1278 Wichita Grand Opera 2:00, Yardley Hall (JCCC). Puccini’s final opera is set in China’s Imperial City and tells the legendary tale of an icy princess. JCCC.edu/theseries

31 Monday Visit Science City 10:00, Science City (Union Station). New exhibits, hands-on activities for the entire family, workshops, demonstrations and more! UnionStation.org Visit the Museum 10:00, National Museum of Toys and Miniatures. After a remodel, the Museum is open and better than ever! $5. 816.235.8000

A Hometown Favorite Since 1967. Th

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Pizza Shoppe is always a big hit with fans. Many of our 18 KC-area locations have a party room available for team parties, office gatherings, fantasy drafts and other important events. So come in and catch a game – we've always got great seats!

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

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

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find us on facebook kcparent.com august 2015

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KANSAS CITY ZOO Aug 1

Back to School Day/ Pediatric Wellness Day with Research Medical Center

New

Orangutan Canopy NOW OPEN!

2015 FOTZ Memberships NOW AVAILABLE!

Aug 8

Zootastik Learning Fest –Migratory Bird Day

Aug 9

Boomerang Bash

Aug 16

Safari Party

Aug 22

Species Spotlight – Painted Dogs & Lions

Aug 29 & 30

SnowZoo

Sept 5 & 6

Superhero Weekend

Come Meet the New Zoo Babies!

OPEN DAILY kansascityzoo.org 816.595.1234

kcparent.com august 2015

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.