19 minute read
5 Things
Dorm Shopping Ticonderoga Pencils
Contrary to what many retailers told us in July, the true time for back-to-school shopping has arrived, and I know pencils are on every list. Through many years of trial and error, I have found the Ticonderoga black pencils (not yellow) are the perfect pencil. They write smoothly, and the lead isn’t too light. In fact, I hide them in my office so they don’t mysteriously walk away. If you like to write with a pencil, give them a whirl! Be sure to stock up during back-to-school sales!
Remember the easy days of grade school supplies and those awesome packs you could order that had everything you needed? Guess what—the same thing is available for college/ dorm room shopping! OCM has more than 900 college checklists of items needed and has put together value packs that contain essentials to outfit the dorm room! No more hitting several different stores and wandering aimlessly. It’s a dream come true! They offer so many bedding options, and all the items I’ve seen are high quality. In addition, they offer care packages, personal care items and so much more! Check them out at OCM.com.
5THINGS WE LOVE RIGHT NOW
Compiled by Margaret Sarver
Pool Float
You’ll notice that I’m vacillating between summer and back to school in this month’s column. I still have one foot firmly in summer but also realize the calendar dictates I send the kids to school. In light of keeping summer alive for at least one more month, do yourself a favor and get the Aqua Monterey Hammock. It’s perfect for both a visit to the pool and a trip to the beach. I’ve tried it in both situations, and it’s the perfect way to relax in water. It’s very versatile—you can sit, straddle or lie on it. Because it’s lightweight and small, packing it is a breeze! Amazon.com
Bug Bite Thing
I love to spend time outside, especially during the summer. But what I don’t love are the bugs. I am one of those people who get bitten a lot, so when I read about the Bug Bite Thing, I was intrigued. It’s a device that suctions out insect gunk from the bite to help alleviate itching and swelling. It needs to be used on a fresh bite, and it didn’t take long for that to happen for my product trial. Once bitten, I ran inside, grabbed my Bug Bite Thing, placed it over the bite and pulled up on the suction. It’s a funny sensation, but I’m here to tell you it works! No itchy bite and no need for creams to stop the itch! BugBiteThing.com
Aztec Theater
The Aztec Theater, located in downtown Shawnee, recently reopened after three-and-a-half years of construction working to refurbish the space. As I’ve mentioned before, my husband and I really enjoy live music performances. We found out a local band we like was performing at the newly rehabbed venue, so we were anxious to check it out. The updated theater looks great and is the perfect spot to take in live music! They have a robust calendar of upcoming acts every Friday and Saturday evening. It’s the perfect spot for a date night, and I highly recommend! Check out the schedule at AztecShawnee.com.
My dog absolutely hates the doorbell and acts like Cujo when anyone rings it. He is friendly with visitors, but just really hates the doorbell. What can I do to get him to stop barking at the doorbell?
– Ruben Jacobs
I recommend teaching him to do something else when he hears the doorbell. Have him watch you ring the doorbell (so he knows it is you making the noise, not a visitor) then lure him to his bed and reward him when he is lying down and quiet. Repeat this to desensitize him to the sound of the bell. Then have a friend or neighbor ring the doorbell while you encourage him to lie down and be quiet. When he starts going to the bed on his own, make sure to give him a big reward for this behavior.
– Ashley Flores, CPDT-KA
Treats are reinforcers and a great way to teach pets new commands through luring. Dogs, like humans, like to be reinforced for their good behavior. Would you go to work every week if your employer stopped paying you? Treats are not the only rewards that your pet might like. Some pets like attention, petting, toys, or playtime as a reward instead of treats.
– Ashley Flores, CPDT-KA
noise is reward enough! Training your cat is a great way to bond with your pet.
– Ashley Flores, CPDT-KA
I just adopted a cat from a local animal shelter. I was wondering if you can you train a cat and if so, how you do it? - Geraldine Obrien
FEATURED PET FEATURED PET Babs
Is using treats considered bribery during dog training? Do I need to keep giving my dog treats once he has learned a new command?
– Olivia Howell
Thank you so much for adopting! Yes, you can really train cats! Training cats is like training dogs. Start with a treat that your cat really likes and is willing to work for. First try simple tricks to show your cat that good things happen when they display desirable behaviors. Keep training sessions short (10 – 15 minutes) and positive so your cat is eager to participate. Cats do well with clicker training since they are very time-oriented creatures and enjoy routines. For some cats the clicker Babs is a darling two-year-old terrier mix who is ready to find her forever home. She loves exploring new places and hiking as much as snuggling up to her favorite people and doling out affection. She is obsessed with toys, is very treat motivated and loves to be with her people. She has great house manners and is housetrained. Babs is looking for a home where she can shine as the only pet, and she will thrive with consistent exercise and continued training. With Babs around, your life is sure to be bright! Contact adoptions@greatplainsspca.org to learn more.
Email askashley@greatplainsspca.org for a chance to have your pet question answered here in KC Parent magazine.
Animal expert, Ashley Flores, CPDT-KA, is the Director of Animal Behavior & Training at Great Plains SPCA. Ashley has more than 16 years of experience in animal training and behavior.
Great Plains SPCA is an independent 501(c)(3) no-kill shelter serving approximately 4,000 animals annually in the Johnson County community. As Kansas City’s premium family shelter, we continue to support the seven municipalities with which we are contracted including Overland Park, Leawood, Lenexa, Shawnee, Lake Quivira and Johnson County Parks and Recreation and unincorporated Johnson County.
Weston Orchard & Vineyard
it’s apple picking time
It’s apple picking season! Each of the u-pick apple orchards on our list is a locally-owned family operation designed to provide the best in healthy produce and a great family outing. Apple picking season is typically mid-August through early October, but you’ll want to call farms or check their Facebook status for current hours and information.
PRODUCE PICKING TIPS: • Call ahead or check the farm’s Facebook page (linked in the status update for each farm) to verify picking times as they vary from farm to farm. This is a MUST! • Remember comfortable shoes (you will be walking in fields) and wear sunscreen. • Bring bottled water and pack a picnic if the farm allows.
OUR TOP PICKS: Fun Farm Pumpkin Patch The Fun Farm is the place for all-day FUN. This beautiful farm stands out in the crowd for its intentional layout welcoming guests of all ages to experience agritourism at its finest. Kids will love the Keebler Treehouse Village, the petting zoo, barnyard games, jumping pillows and more. Add on to your daily ticket and enjoy picking several varieties of apples. FunFarmPumpkinPatch.com Weston Orchard & Vineyard Situated on a bluff in Historic Weston, this family-owned farm is a fun getaway in the country. Enjoy a u-pick apple orchard with 7,000 trees on 15 acres offering 12 varieties, hayrack rides, apple cannons, rat racers, bouncing pillow, low ropes course with zip line, kids corn maze and more! OrchardWeston.com
Johnson Farms Plants and Pumpkins Johnson Farms hosts apple picking in August and September, even before pumpkin season begins. Enjoy a hayride out to the orchard where you can pick beautiful apples. This is one of our favorite ways to kick off autumn family traditions. Check their website for up-to-date information: JohnsonFarms.net.
Louisburg Cider Mill Although you can’t pick apples at Louisburg Cider Mill, you can enjoy apple treats! Watch as cider is made from scratch, enjoy fresh apple cider donuts and shop their country store. In the fall, play at the pumpkin patch and enjoy the corn maze. LouisburgCiderMill.com ADDITIONAL ORCHARDS: Alldredge Orchards 10455 Hwy. N, Platte City, MO, 816.330.3448 Nearby: Watkins Mill Cider Hill Family Orchard 3341 N. 139th St., Kansas City, KS, 913.721.2507 Nearby: The Legends Shopping Center Peter’s Orchard 32615 Highway 65 South, Waverly, MO, 660.493.2368 Pome on the Range 2050 Idaho Rd., Williamsburg, KS, 785.746.5492 Rock Creek Apple Orchard 619 W. Lone Jack Lee’s Summit Road, Lone Jack, MO, 816.286.6262 Nearby: Powell Gardens Schweizer Orchards S. Hwy. 169 & FF, St. Joseph, MO, 816.232.3999 Nearby: Patee House Museum Sunflower Orchards 16905 W. 311th St., Paola, KS, 913.244.4034 Wagon Wheel Orchard 15380 Edgerton Rd., Gardner, KS, 913.893.6050 Nearby: Lanesfield School Historic Site
Fun Farm Pumpkin Patch
AUGUST festivals
ACROSS KANSAS CITY
Johnson Couty Fair
Grand Carnivale
Summer Fest
Miami County Fair
July 24-Aug. 1, 401 E. Wallace Park Dr., Paola, KS. Youth rodeo, carnival, races, parade, demolition derby, bike derby, dog show, horse show, pancake breakfast, concerts and more. MiamiCountyKansasFair.com
Johnson County Fair
July 27-Aug. 1, Johnson County Fairgrounds, 136 E. Washington St., Gardner, KS. Celebrate the best in Johnson County while preserving the agricultural heritage of the community. The Johnson County Fair is a free fair except for the carnival and nightly arena events. JoCoKansasFair.com
Grand Carnivale
Thru Aug. 8, Worlds of Fun. You’ll be transported to amazing locales far and wide with authentic entertainment, delicious tastes and sips, lively games, unique crafts and traditions from nations spanning the globe. WorldsOfFun.com
Missouri State Fair
Aug. 12 -22, Missouri State Fairgrounds, Sedalia. Livestock shows, animal competitions, concerts, carnival rides, food, vendors and more are part of this annual summer tradition. MOStateFair.com
Parkville Days
Aug. 20-22, downtown Parkville. One of downtown Parkville’s largest events, the Parkville Days festival features a variety of family-friendly entertainment. Browse and enjoy arts and crafts, retail, food and specialty booths. ParkvilleMO.org
Summer Fest
Aug. 21, Colonial Gardens. Join Colonial Gardens for our annual Butterfly Festival! Explore local vendors, learn more about local pollinators and participate in or observe the release of over 300 butterflies over the course of the day! ColonialGardensKC.com
Find the complete Summer Festival Guide on KCParent.com.
EASY WAYS TO SAVE MONEY
Is it me, or does it seem like everything goes on sale the moment we all decide to save a little money? If you thought for a split second, “Oh my God, yes!” then you, my friend, are not alone. That “Oh my God” moment happens to more of us than you know. It happens to me at least once a month, usually after I get my first string of bills. So how can you save money and not completely change your lifestyle? Keep reading for some goodsense tips.
Automatic Savings
We live in a world that’s becoming more and more tech savvy each day, and yet we underestimate the ease and reliability of electronic transfers. If your bank has a downloadable app, odds are there’s a function to make a scheduled transfer. Use it! Pick a date and time that works for you and send your money right along into savings. One of the biggest and easiest ways to save money is to have your money automatically withdrawn from your account and deposited into some sort or savings account. Also, most employers offer more than one direct deposit option. Some places allow you to split your check between accounts, and some even offer you an opportunity to deposit your earnings by percentage. Either way, if you safely deposit your earnings into your savings before you get a chance to spend it or see it, you’ll be well off. Out of sight, out of mind. Check with your bank and your human resources department to be sure of your options. Budget Your Savings
Cliché right? It’s easy to just say, “I’ll just budget better,” which is always easier said than done. Where most people go wrong is thinking about budgeting as only what we’re making. We never really think about what we’re saving. Having a goal in mind when budgeting your savings makes the saving process easier and purposeful. Big, small or ongoing—give yourself a goal and stay on it. One trick that works for me is thinking of a “rainy day.” When it rains it pours, right? My golden number is $500. If anything small in life goes wrong, it usually costs a couple hundred dollars to fix. If my goal is $500, and I save more than that and continue to save, I can budget my savings for any rainy day and a sunny one. Giving yourself a deadline to hit your savings goal is another amazing tactic.
Don’t Cheat Yourself, Treat Yourself!
I know this may sound a little weird when talking about saving money, but buy the things you need! The absolute worst thing you can do when trying to save money is deprive yourself of the things you like, want or need most. Conditioning yourself to believe you just don’t need it is a bad idea! You work hard; it’s okay to treat yourself. Now, I’m not suggesting everyone go on a shopping spree. I’m simply suggesting a more creative approach. If you’re concerned about overspending, try (if you can) to wait for the sale. Stretch out the periods between shopping sprees. If you shop once every two weeks, try to go once every month. Most retailers receive stock each week. Every month, they almost always have some sort of sale. That’s the perfect time to have a little fun. Do yourself the favor and wait for the sale before you buy it. Another great tip: Don’t be afraid to ask for a discount. They exist everywhere! It’s also helpful to have a friend or close relative nearby to make sure you don’t overspend. You can hold each other accountable.
Fun Things Come in Free Packages
If you’re looking to save money when it comes to entertainment, find some free fun. Believe it or not, this city offers all sorts of entertainment options that are free. Check the local listings! KC Going Places (KCGoingPlaces.com) is a great place to start. VisitKC.com is another great resource for fun free things to do around the city.
Do It Yourself
Another great way to save money, especially on those pesky projects around the house, is to do them yourself. DIY projects can save you hundreds of dollars, and they can make fun and easy family collaborations. If you can afford to pay someone to clean your house, opt out for a few months and do the cleaning yourself. If you pay for prepped meals, try cooking a few days out of the week to pocket a little of what you’ve been shelling out. You can even lighten the load with how you eat. We all know eating out less is a great way to cut food costs, but we don’t always consider how to cut costs when shopping for groceries. First and foremost, do the grocery shopping yourself, instead of farming out the task. If you shop yourself, you can locate the deals and map out your purchases. This will help you avoid overspending or buying things you never intended to make in the first place.
So, there you have it, a few simple ways to save a few nickels to rub together! If you stick to it, these tips are sure to help you build up a nice little savings stash.
Jessica Samuel lives in Kansas City and is a freelance writer and photographer.
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Teaching Kids to Manage RISKS
As parents, our natural instinct is to keep our children safe. In fact, it’s not just our instinct, it’s part of our job. But another part of our job as parents is to not only allow but encourage our children to take risks too. Now if you’re like me, the word risks makes you sweat and immediately conjures images of a trip to the emergency room! And although sometimes that may actually happen as a result of risk-taking, it’s not the norm! Risk-taking can actually be quite simple ... a new playdate, starting a new school, trying a new food even. Allowing your child to take risks might feel very scary to you, making difficult the act of releasing control for your child to have access to this experience. But with a carefully crafted balance, you can encourage your children to take risks that develop courage and confidence while still keeping them safe and healthy. Part of a child’s development is gaining confidence, self-esteem and courage. Encouraging your child to take risks is an excellent way to foster the development of these qualities. According to BrightHorizons.com, “taking risks in a safe environment builds confidence and teaches valuable life skills.” We may be easily tempted to protect or stop our kids from taking risks so they will never fail or get hurt, but we are actually doing them a disservice. Danielle, Olathe mom of three, says, “Kids used to just experience things, get hurt and learn from it. Now, the world we live in is extremely safety conscious. We don’t like to deal with the hurt, so we try to eliminate the possibility, which I think is not always a good thing for their development.” Polly, Overland Park mom of two, agrees, saying, “Risk-taking is really important from both a success and failure standpoint. We learn so much from taking risks, especially when we fail. We have to be okay with letting our kids fail, otherwise we’ll discourage risk-taking.” The age of kids informs risk-taking and its consequence. And much like physical development, risk-taking varies from child to child—you’ll see this within your own household. Some children are big risk takers, not fully understanding the dangers or hurt that can happen. Other children are more cautious and prefer to avoid new situations. Watching your child take risks also helps you see where additional support or guidance might be needed. “It’s important to give children opportunities to do new things together as a family and individually. Introducing them to as many new and challenging experiences as possible will lead to more confidence and courage to try new things on their own. We also should talk about the potential fears (or other feelings) we are all experiencing that might get in our way and how to work through those when trying something new,” says Kay, an Overland Park mom of two. So you might be wondering right now about how to craft that balance I mentioned earlier if you’re supposed to protect your children but not keep them in a bubble! One tip for parents is to set limits and boundaries where risk taking can occur safely. A parking lot or street are not good places for risk-taking, but climbing that tree? Sure! Riding your bike at breakneck speed down your street? Go ahead—with a helmet of course! Going out for the lead in the school play? Awesome! Be close and available to offer support, but also remember to celebrate the process and not just the product. Stephanie, Overland Park mom of two, says, “We try to celebrate even in small ways when our kids choose something brave. We celebrated our daughter when she auditioned for the school musical, not just when she got a part. We try to recognize when our kids put themselves out there, even if they fail, not just when they accomplish something.” Try not to be afraid of letting your kids take a risk for fear of failure, too. “If we are willing to celebrate failures that are results of taking a step into the unknown, then I think we have more comfort in taking risks,” says Anne, Overland Park mom of two. Something else to consider (but you may not like me for!) is to be a good role model by letting your child see you take risks, too. I know, I know. Staying in our comfort zones is so much easier. But if your child doesn’t see you willing to take risks, perhaps he won’t either. Besides, going through your own risk can help keep the doors of communication open between you and your child, particularly in the teen years. As Anne puts it, “Walking together through risks also makes them less scary.” Whether you are going through the same risk together or taking risks simultaneously, you and your child can share your experiences and even learn from each other. Risk doesn’t have to be dangerous and can actually be a good thing. Keep in mind as you navigate these unknown waters that what feels easy and simple to you can actually feel quite scary and risky to your child. Be prepared to push your children out of their comfort zone and brace yourself for a little resistance too. Adults aren’t the only ones who prefer to stick to what’s safe and known! As with any other thing we are teaching our children, though, while the process can sometimes be painful and getting through it tough, everyone comes out better for it in the end! Good luck!
ACCORDING TO HUFFPOST.COM:
• Taking risks shows confidence and helps you stand out.
• You don’t achieve your dreams by playing it safe. • Success doesn’t just fall in your lap—you have to go after it.
• Risk-taking helps you overcome a fear of failure.
• Unforeseen opportunities can come from risk-taking.
Julie Collett writes from Overland Park where she dreads risky activities and prefers to stay in her comfort zone!
