KC Parent Magazine August 2022 by KC Parent Magazine

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AUGUST

2022

IN EVERY ISSUE

BACK-TO-SCHOOL GUIDE, PG. 34-47

Women's Health

Date Night

5 Things

Dear Teachers

Word from Dad

Tasty Treats

Craft Corner

SPECIAL SECTIONS FEATURES

Party Guide

Back-to-School Guide

Calendar of Events

Ask Questions

Smart Start

Apple Picking

Get kids to open up with

Tips for getting a smart start

Find the perfect spot for a

open-ended questions.

to the new school year.

day of fun and fresh apples.

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EDITOR’SLETTER AUGUST 2022

Happy August, Kansas City! KC PARENT IS GIVING AWAY A

SUNDAY FUNDAY FAMILY PRIZE PACK TO EVERY SUNDAY MONARCHS GAME! For details and to enter, head to KCParent.com.

Publisher Michael Gimotty Michael@KCParent.com Associate Publisher Darrell Dean Darrell@KCParent.com Editor Margaret Sarver Margaret@KCParent.com Art Director Kim Tappan Tappan Design Kim@KCParent.com Advertising Sales Darrell Dean Darrell@KCParent.com Digital Media Manager Kristina Light Kristina@KCParent.com Copy Editor Susan Crainshaw Susan@KCParent.com Summer Intern Tori Sarver Distribution To be added to our distribution list, e-mail Distribution@KCParent.com

Local Contributing Writers Bill Bartlett (Belton), Hannah Berry (Kansas City), Julie Collett (Overland Park), Janelle Cumro-Sultzer (Manhattan), Lauren Dreher (Stilwell), Judy Goppert (Lee’s Summit), Lauren Greenlee (Olathe), Kristina Light (Kansas City), Regan Lyons (St. Joseph), Sarah Lyons (Olathe), Kerrie McLoughlin (Peculiar), Tori Sarver (Lenexa) Mailing Address 11936 W. 119th #335, Overland Park, KS 66213 913.782.3238 phone • 913.681.5139 fax OUR PRODUCTS FREE | August 2022 | KCParent.com | Since 1985

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LOCAL CONTENT

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think if you ask most people—both kids and adults—what they fear, all would be able to come up with at least one thing that scares them. For me, it has been a fear of flying. I never enjoyed flying, but throughout my teens and into early adulthood, my fear grew stronger and stronger. The terror was so choking that I stopped flying altogether and resigned myself to the fact that any traveling would have to be by car. But finally, prompted by an event I knew I wanted to attend, I decided to deal with my fear. I enrolled in a fear of flying class (it’s a thing!) that took place both on land and in the air and, after a year, was able to take a commercial flight. Today I am able to fly freely without the fear! Fears run the gamut—fear of the dark, fear of heights, fear of spiders. To help your kids deal with their fears, check out Lauren Dreher’s article on pg. 30. August is here, and you know what that means. It’s time for kids to head back to school! Some children may harbor some fears about going back to school, but our back-toschool guide is here to not only quell fears, but help you get prepared for a great start! And, check out our all-new After-School Activities Guide at KCParent.com. Whether your kids are into baseball, soccer, swimming, basketball, dance, art or STEM, you’re sure to find extracurricular fun in our After-School Activities Guide which covers programs across the Kansas City metro. Before sending the kids back to school, soak up the last days of summer break! Check out our calendar, festival guide and more, both here in print and online, to make the most of summer days.

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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.

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Our commitment to do more for kids is at the heart of everything we do, down to each strand of DNA sequenced for genetic research. Together, we can help kids overcome whatever’s standing in their way. Learn more at childrensmercy.org/imagine.

Imagine the Potential

WOMEN’SHEALTH

H ealthy Snacks for Women

iving a healthy lifestyle not only means finding time to be physically active but also means watching what you put into your body. For bigger meals, meal prepping and planning can help to ensure your body is receiving all the nutrients it needs. But when it comes to snacking, staying away from sweet treats and prepackaged munchies can be a little harder. Of course, it doesn’t hurt to reach for those indulgences every once in a while, but there are many healthy alternatives that are easy and fun to create! The word snack isn’t the first to come to mind when seeking to live a healthy lifestyle. Most people are under the impression that less is more when it comes to a healthy diet, but rather than the amount of food, think about the types of food you are consuming. According to Women’s Health, a snack should be thought of as a mini meal meant to contain protein, carbs and healthy fats. These mini meals can help satisfy hunger between larger meals, which can prevent binging and overeating, as well as provide energy to help you throughout the day. A healthy munchie can be as easy as a bag of salted nuts or some fruit or veggies.

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But if you want to go the extra mile, you can snack prep to maximize nutrition and minimize time spent making snacks during busy back-to-school days. Prepping treats at the beginning of a week can relieve stress and also provide an incentive to reach for the healthy snacks when you need a pick-me-up. Greek yogurt is full of protein and healthy probiotics that can increase gut health. Add some fruit and granola to up the fiber levels and provide a yummy and satisfying snack. Creating a frozen yogurt bark that contains fruit and granola is delicious and easy and keeps well throughout the week. It's as easy as spreading a yogurt flavor of choice in a pan lined with parchment paper, adding some fruit, such as blueberries or strawberries, and sprinkling some granola on top to garnish. For some extra sweetness, try adding dark chocolate chips. Pop the pan in the freezer until bark is solid. Break apart by hand, put into individual packaging for the week and enjoy! For something that doesn't require freezing, try peanut butter protein balls. These protein-packed snacks are no-bake and only require six simple ingredients. To get the most protein possible, start with a

protein powder of your choice. In a large bowl, mix together 1 1/2 c. of smooth peanut butter, 1/2 c. of honey and 1 1/3 c. rolled oats. Mix ingredients together using a spatula or large spoon. Next, add a pinch of salt and 1/2 c. dark chocolate chips. After mixing ingredients together, hand roll the mixture into balls and place them on a pan. Allow the protein balls to harden in the refrigerator for approximately one hour then enjoy throughout the week! Having fun with healthy snacks keeps your energy levels up and hunger levels down! Tori Sarver is an intern for KC Parent. She is studying strategic communications and journalism at CU Boulder. She enjoys yogurt and granola as a daily snack! Source: Women’s Health

ADVERTORIAL

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Email askashley@greatplainsspca.org for a chance to have your pet question answered in KC Parent magazine. Animal expert, Ashley Flores, CPDT-KA, is the Senior Director of Animal Behavior and 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, with a 98% live release rate, GPSPCA provides lifesaving services for approximately 4,000 animals annually in the greater Kansas City area. As Kansas City’s premium family shelter, we continue to support the seven municipalities with which we are contracted, including Overland Park, Leawood, Lenexa, Prairie Village, Shawnee, Bonner Springs, Lake Quivira and Johnson County Parks Department and the Johnson County Sheriff’s Department.

DATES WITH THEMES

DATENIGHT

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Do you and your sweetheart need some fresh ideas for date night? If so, maybe you are up for a little adventure. Or how about just some fun and games? Or even … a little romance? Read on for several ideas. FUN & GAMES The first board game pub to open in the metro was Pawn & Pint. It’s located downtown and boasts of 1,200 or so games! They have free parking, a cool vibe and a full bar—serving cocktails, beer and coffee— along with weekly events, such as music bingo and trivia. For your food needs, they have partnered with the Homesteader Cafe, which is located right next door. You can’t go wrong with them—they have excellent food. The best part is that you don’t even have to leave whatever game you are playing because the Homesteader Cafe will deliver right to your table. Pawn & Pint also has memberships, which give you unlimited access to the games without having to pay their required $5 cover charge. But even if you elect not to become a member, the pay-to-play charge is worth it for such a fun and unique date night. Plus, just browsing all the games they have is fun. It’s quite a collection!

ADVENTURE Go Ape Treetop Adventure in Swope Park is one of the best things I have done in Kansas City. It’s a system of carabiners and trolleys that transport you through the course and each of five sites. Each site includes various treetop obstacles, such as suspended platforms and steps, ropes, climbing apparatuses, nets and zip lines. Each challenge is marked as easy, moderate, difficult or extreme. The course is very challenging and will take you about two hours to get through. You will definitely need to be in decent shape for this, and wearing workout type gloves is highly recommended. It’s around $60 per person, but you will definitely get your money’s worth!

ROMANCE A great choice is a day at Loose Park, where you can enjoy a mile-long stroll around the park, as well as check out the various fountains and monuments and especially the rose garden. The garden boasts 3,000 roses of 130 different varieties. Also check out Loose Lake and the bridge, which is pretty all year round. Finally, pack a picnic and stake your claim to one of the many picturesque spots in the park. Then, sit back, relax and savor. For something to get your blood pumping, try the Sunset Date Night Tour at Zip KC. On this tour, you get to zip all nine of their lines, and the tour starts in time to zip the towers as the sun begins to set. The whole tour lasts approximately 2-1/2 to 3 hours. Hannah Berry is a freelance writer who lives in the Northland with her husband. They love to explore Kansas City and try new restaurants and activities.

FOR MORE GREAT DATE NIGHT IDEAS, GO TO KCPARENT.COM!

FIVETHINGS

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!

After Sun Lotion My younger daughter has been working as a lifeguard this summer, which means she is out in the sun a lot. She is diligent to apply sunscreen, and just as diligent in applying an after sun lotion. Through trial and error, we’ve landed on Hawaiian Tropic Lime Coolada After Sun Moisturizer. It keeps their skin soft after a day of sun and chlorine and smells great! Available at local drugstores.

THINGS 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

Hair Dryer My dad used to say that when he won the lottery, he was going to hire a driver. I always say that when I win, I’m hiring someone to style my hair each day. It’s just not my strongest skill, but I love how it looks when styled by a pro. A friend mentioned an all-in-one brush/hair dryer combo she uses the Revlon one-step hair dryer and volumizer hot air brush, so I researched (and by researched, I mean I read Amazon reviews) and saw it was positively rated, so I ordered one. While it’s not the answer to all my hair styling dilemmas, it does do a great job of drying and straightening at the same time! Available at local retailers.

Portable Blender BLENDi is a portable 18-ounce cordless blender that’s rechargeable. At the click of a button, BLENDi combines anything from powders to fruits and even ice for a tasty and healthy snack or meal. It’s perfect for making a healthy smoothie on a busy school day morning and perfect for the dorm room if you have college aged kiddos! BLENDi’s innovative design lets you drink straight from the top of the BLENDi and even convert it into a water bottle just by detaching the base. BlendiBlender.com

14 august 2022

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Building Great Smiles for Life!

Four convenient locations near you!

kcparent.com august 2022

Q&A DEARTEACHERS

BY PEGGY GISLER AND MARGE EBERTS

TALKING TO YOUR CHILDREN ABOUT SCHOOL LOCKDOWNS

QUESTION: My children in elementary school

are very aware of the shootings that have occurred at schools. Their school has statemandated lockdown drills four times a year. Every time this has happened, it has shaken them up. How can I calm them down? – Bewildered

ANSWER: Lockdown drills have become almost as common as fire drills. Studies are showing these drills may upset children, as has happened with yours. Because lockdown drills have stressed your children, you will need to talk to them about the drills in a calm and confident manner. Affirm that the drills can be hard and scary. Do emphasize that the drills will help keep them safe in case anything bad ever happens. Ask open-ended questions to find out why the children are scared. One thing that you can’t really say is that everything will be fine. You may find it helpful to follow some of the National Association of School Psychologists recommendations for talking to your children about violence in schools: • Tailor your explanations to be age appropriate. As your children enter middle and high school, welcome their thoughts on gun control and safety. • Review the school safety procedures with your children.

• Keep an eye on your children’s sleep patterns, appetite and anxiety after drills. Don’t be afraid to talk to a mental health professional for help, especially if your child has experienced past trauma or has special needs. • Limit how much news your younger children see about school shootings or other violent events on television.

School lockdowns are not all the same. In less threatening drills, teachers lock their classroom doors, turn out the lights and have the children hide in the corners or a closet. There are others that are quite realistic and frightening with the noise of gun fire, knocking on doors and shouting. This type of drill can be very disturbing, and schools should avoid having them. To lessen children’s apprehension about drills, schools should always announce that a drill is a practice drill, and teachers need to explain before and after the drills how they’re designed to keep the children safe. Unfortunately, the more frequently schools have practice lockdown drills, the more likely young children will think that they are a confirmation that a school shooting is likely. Some child and adolescent psychologists believe that these drills are doing more harm than good. However, it has been shown that well-executed lockdowns can slow a gunman until the police arrive.

kcparent.com august 2022

Compass Syndicate Corporation, 2022

WORDFROMDAD

Dancing to Circadian Rhythms “Bill, you’d better start going to bed earlier.” Mom looked me in the eye. “School starts next week, and you need to change your sleeping habits, young man.” “Right, Mom.” I went downstairs to my room and pulled out a book instead. At the age of 14, when summer lasted for three glorious months of idleness and indolence interspersed with periods of sheer boredom, I already knew everything. With a whole week to prepare, I’d be fine. Secure in my smugness, I followed my normal routine. Waking around noon, playing touch football, going to the pool and riding my bike to the library filled the daylight hours. After dark, my next door neighbors turned on their backyard floodlights—Foster Memorial Stadium, we called it—and we played whiffle ball until the 10:00 news reminded our parents we should be inside. The rest of the evening and the better part of the night, I spent in my room with a book. After reading the same sentence over and over, usually around three or four a.m., I put my book down and slept, rising again around noon. Rinse and repeat. At bedtime the night before school, sleep was the farthest thing from my mind. Mom gave a warm, but unsympathetic, smile. “You should have paid attention to me last week. Go to bed.” Of course, I obeyed, not even thinking about a book. Instead, I tossed and turned, falling asleep around 2:00. That morning, 7:00 came early, far too early, but I got up without complaint and, somewhat bleary-eyed, handled the entire day. At dinner that night, Mom kept an eye on me and my frequent yawns. “If you stay up until at least nine, you’ll be fine tomorrow.” “Yeah, Mom. Sure.” After all, I was 14 and I already knew everything.

You’re an expert on your kids. We’re experts on mental health. KVC Hospitals has all the resources you need to ensure your kids’ mental health needs are cared for. Visit www.kvchospitals.org/resources to learn about common mental health conditions, get practical advice and tips, and so much more from our mental health experts.

KVC Hospitals can help.

(913) 890 – 7468

www.kvchospitals.org

William R. Bartlett lives in Belton with his family. kcparent.com august 2022

TASTYTREATS

POP UP Cooking Creativity (Family Features)

Encourage Creativity

t’s an important life skill, but learning to cook and becoming familiar with kitchen basics can also be an exciting adventure for kids from toddlers to teens. Using a delicious childhood favorite like popcorn as the key ingredient at the center of your lessons can spur interest and enthusiasm. Along with understanding measurements and safety, teaching your children how to make simple recipes also offers opportunities to bond and make memories that can last a lifetime. Popcorn is a snack food associated with good times and it’s versatile enough to encourage creativity. Though it’s important to begin with easy techniques that introduce future chefs to the culinary world, it’s also helpful to ensure they’ll enjoy eating their first creations so they’ll be eager for more time in the kitchen. As a whole grain that’s 100% unprocessed with no additional additives, hidden ingredients or GMOs, air-popped popcorn has only 30 calories per cup and provides energyproducing complex carbohydrates. Because whole grains are important sources of nutrients such as zinc, magnesium, B vitamins and fiber, you can instill the values of nutritious snacking all while having some fun. These simple yet delicious recipes and tips can help you get your kids involved in the kitchen.

Keep the fun in the cooking lessons by starting with a versatile base ingredient like popcorn that’s naturally low in fat and calories. Encourage your child to get creative with a recipe like Pop-a-rific Popcorn Balls. With simple variations like adding food coloring or mixing in candies, nuts or dried fruit, the recipe is a colorful way for little ones to build confidence in their skills.

Measure Ingredients A key component to recipes of all difficulty levels is accurately measuring teaspoons, tablespoons, cups, ounces and more. Instruct your little chefs and let them practice with measuring basics like those in these Simple Popcorn S’mores that call for popcorn and graham crackers to be measured out in cups, so your child can focus on one unit of measurement. Then, if little ones are helping, have an adult melt the chocolate and drizzle for a family-favorite snack.

Get Messy Learning how to create and explore is often productive and even more fun when children can get their hands dirty. Sweet ’n’ Salty Popcorn Pretzel Sticks are a perfect canvas for letting kiddos work directly with the ingredients, as they can roll pretzels in peanut butter, add sprinkles to their heart’s content and press popcorn into their newfound favorite treat.

Find more kid-friendly recipes to get the whole family involved in the kitchen at Popcorn.org.

DIY POPCORN BAR Whether you’re entertaining guests, hosting a houseful of kids or simply enjoying a weekend at home, a DIY popcorn bar provides a tasty and joyful way for children and adults alike to create their own version of an afternoon snack. Just set out a few ingredients and watch the fun unfold. • Small popcorn bags, bowls or cups • Scoops or spoons • Popped popcorn • Peanuts (Remember to ask fellow parents whether their children have an allergy.)

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• • • • • •

Candies Raisins Chocolate chips Seasonings Shredded cheese Shredded coconut • Melted butter

SWEET ’N’ SALTY POPCORN PRETZEL STICKS Servings: 6 6 T. peanut butter 6 large pretzel rods 3 c. popped popcorn Sugar sprinkles 3/4 c. mini chocolate chips (optional) Spread 1 T. peanut butter over one pretzel, leaving 2-inch “handle” without peanut butter. Repeat with remaining peanut butter and pretzels. Press and roll popcorn onto peanut butter to coat each pretzel. Sprinkle with sugar sprinkles. To make optional chocolate drizzle: Place chocolate chips in small, resealable plastic bag and seal bag. Microwave 30 seconds or until chocolate is melted. Clip small corner from bag and squeeze to drizzle chocolate over popcorn. Sprinkle with additional sugar sprinkles. Allow chocolate to harden before serving.

SIMPLE POPCORN S’MORES Yield: 10 cups 10 c. freshly popped popcorn 1 pkg. (10-1/2 oz.) miniature marshmallows 2 c. graham crackers, broken into small pieces 1/2 c. milk chocolate, melted On baking sheet, combine popcorn, marshmallows and graham crackers. Drizzle with melted chocolate and cool.

POP-A-RIFIC POPCORN BALLS Yield: 14 balls 3 qts. popped popcorn, unsalted 1 pkg. (1 lb.) marshmallows 1/4 c. butter or margarine Place popped popcorn in large bowl. In large saucepan over low heat, cook marshmallows and butter or margarine until melted and smooth. Pour over popcorn, tossing gently to mix well. Cool 5 minutes. Butter hands well and form into 2-1/2-inch balls. Variations: To color popcorn balls, add 3-4 drops of food coloring to smooth marshmallow mixture. Mix well to distribute color evenly then pour over popcorn as instructed. Mix in candies, nuts or dried fruit after mixing popcorn and melted marshmallows. Stir to distribute then form into balls. Place nonpareils in shallow bowl or plate. Roll popcorn balls in nonpareils after forming. kcparent.com august 2022

the situation turned out. This helps build your relationship with your child and also shows him you are listening and that you care about him. The long-term benefit of regularly having conversations with your child is a stronger relationship built on trust. “It is important to be aware and actively listen to your child,” says Hunter. “Tune into their desires, needs, wants and interests. Ask engaging and curious questions about what interests them.” When you show your children that you are interested in what excites them, you are actually showing them you are interested in them as people. We may not be thrilled by the latest toy craze, video game or sports statistics, but if we show kids we are interested in what they say and are really listening to them, it will make opening up about other, more difficult topics easier in the future.

Learn something new

Benefits of Asking Open-Ended Questions

hen your child comes home from school and you ask, “How was your day?” what kind of answer do you get? A frustrating “Fine”? Parents can encourage kids to open up and elaborate on their answers by asking open-ended questions that foster communication rather than inviting the conversation to end with a quick, one-word response. Parents desire a healthy and open relationship with their children, but building communication can be challenging, especially if you feel like your children are not sharing the ups and downs of their day. An open-ended question is one that requires a more in-depth answer than a simple yes, no or other one-word response. Instead of asking, “How was school?’’ try to ask specific questions like, “How did the math test go?” or “Who did you sit with at lunch today?” Listen to your child and ask follow-up questions when possible.

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Roe Hunter, marriage and family counselor at Lifeworks Counseling in Madison, MS, says, “I suggest that you ask a question like, ‘How are you today?’ and then wait patiently. Allow for silence to feel uncomfortable. If the child is quietly thinking, wait some more.” Giving kids the time to speak when they are ready is key. There are many benefits to asking openended questions.

Strengthen your relationship Asking open-ended questions and allowing your children to respond in their own time shows them you care about what is going on in their lives, what is important to them and that you are available when they are ready to share. Parents can take this one step further and ask follow-up questions. If you know your child was worried about a test, experiencing a conflict with a friend or excited about an upcoming event, check in and ask how

When you regularly ask your child open-ended questions, you may get an answer that isn’t what you expect. This can be something positive and give you the opportunity to celebrate with your child, but it can also be something that is alarming. For example, your child may share that she is having feelings of anxiety, that she is being bullied or that she is failing a school subject. Kids will start to share when they feel secure and comfortable. “In order to get a kid to open up regardless of age, you must embody safety,” says Hunter. “Safe people are Secure. Aware. Forgiving. Empathetic. (S.A.F.E.)” Everyone needs a place that feels secure and safe to share feelings without judgment or criticism. When a child shares something that surprises you, remain calm. Listen and talk through the situation and try to be understanding. Overreacting or expressing anger will cause the child to shut down.

Encourage self-expression

Kids are naturally creative, but openended questions encourage your children to be creative with their vocabulary and develop habits of healthy self-expression. Good communication skills are an important craft your children will use throughout their lives. When answering

an open-ended question, your children must think about how to respond in a way that tells a story, expresses their feelings and communicates in an understandable way. When you ask follow-up questions using what, where, why, how or tell me about that, kids get the opportunity to critically think about the situation and communicate what they think happened and why. Effective communication skills build their confidence, self-esteem and their relationship with you, and kids will use these skills for the rest of their lives. As you try to continue the conversation with your kids, remember to ask openended questions, show interest in what interests them and be patient and give them time. “Quiet kids seem to need a longer period of ‘warming up,’” says Hunter. “Give the child the message that this is okay.” Letting your children know you are available when they are ready to talk will help foster communication over time. Sarah Lyons is a freelance writer who lives in Olathe with her family.

Examples of Open-Ended Questions for Kids Here are some examples of open-ended questions that can be used in any situation with kids of any age. • If you could be any animal, what would you be? • What was the best part of your day? • If you had a million dollars, what would you buy? • If you could have any superpower, what would it be? • What are you afraid of? • What is one thing that makes you brave? • What is your favorite part about yourself? • If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and why? • What do you want to be when you grow up? • What is the best part about school? • Tell me about a time when you were really happy. Some ideas to reframe the “How was school?” question to get an answer other than “Fine.” Remember to ask follow-up questions: “Why?” or “Tell me more about that.” • What was your high and low of the day? • What did you have for lunch? What is your favorite school lunch? Who do you sit with? • How did your math test go? Are you happy with how it went? • What are you looking forward to this week? • What classes do you feel most motivated in? • Who is your favorite teacher? • Have you noticed anyone getting picked on at school? • What are you reading right now?

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Kauffman Memorial Gardens

20 Ideas for FREE 1.

Play at Crown Center’s free Curious George: Let’s Get Curious! exhibit.

Attend a free summer concert, especially LIVE at the Legends and Olathe LIVE! Summer Concert Series, all on KCParent.com in our Concert Guide.

3. 4.

Watch a free movie in the park, all listed on KCParent.com in our Movie Guide. Visit Kaleidoscope, a free hands-on art center where children use their imaginations to make art with leftover materials from Hallmark’s manufacturing processes (Tip: reservations required).

Stroll through Kauffman Memorial Gardens.

Union Station’s seventh floor is now Graffiti Attic, the largest “Free Wall” in Kansas City! They welcome amazing street artists to come paint up the quarter-mile of wall space!

Go fishing at a local lake.

Tour the Truman Home in Independence and learn about President Truman and his wife, Bess.

9. 10.

Ride the KC Streetcar and participate in our Streetcar Scavenger Hunt on KCParent.com. Get free money at the Federal Reserve Bank & Money Museum.

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Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art

Truman Home

FUN in Kansas City 11.

Discover the waterfall at Parkville Nature Sanctuary.

12.

Take a free class at Burr Oak Woods Nature Center.

13.

Enjoy FREE outdoor theater at Gladstone Amphitheatre’s Theatre in the Park showing Li’l Abner (Aug. 12-24).

14.

Discover a masterpiece at the free Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art or Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art.

15.

Hike the trails at the Kansas City Kansas Public Library – F. L. Schlagle Branch and nature center.

16.

Learn about your family history at Midwest Genealogy Center – MCPL.

17.

On Friday mornings, visit the Farms at Colonial Gardens for the livestock feeding experience.

18.

Walk the trail around Lenexa’s legendary dam at Black Hoof Park.

19.

Discover the natural bridge at Carl Chinnery Nature Trail.

20.

And remember to search Free Events on our Kansas City calendar at KCParent.com, where there are free (and cheap) things to enjoy every day.

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kcparent.com august 2022

GETTING KIDS TO ACTUALLY

DO CHORES

s children grow up, there comes a time when they are able to help out more around the house—which helps out the family as a whole. From infancy, children are extremely dependent on their caregivers to provide meals, clean clothes and more, but even toddlers can learn how to throw diapers away, pick up their toys and put their own shoes away. Learning to do these kinds of things can help teach independence as well as help households run more smoothly. As children continue getting older, the questions become how do we parents distribute household chores, how do we choose which tasks our children are responsible for, how do we ensure that these determined chores are completed, and do we compensate for their assistance? Now, many factors come into play regarding how household chores are distributed, as well as what expectations go along with getting said chores done, but I think everyone can agree that kids should learn how to help out around the house. Children who are expected to help with household chores learn what it takes to run a household, which will benefit them when they are old enough to live on their own. They also learn the value of working together and that many hands make light work. Children also learn important life skills, such as cooking and cleaning, as well as time management and organizational skills. As kids mature, have them help as they can. Once toddlers learn how to walk, have them take their diapers to the trash or place their shoes by the door. Starting early with if/then situations will form habits that will make their older years that much easier.

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If we come into the house, then we put our shoes away. Natural progression can be an easy way to foster helpful and responsible children. As they become preschoolers, add to the steps. If we are finished eating, then we put our dishes in the dishwasher. If we get out toys, then we put them away when we’re done playing with them. The challenging next step is to add on other household tasks that don’t immediately and directly involve only your child but still need to be done, such as preparing meals, cleaning up after meals, taking the trash out and picking up the yard if you have a dog. Tweens and teens tend to become a bit more self-centered, so it’s hard to make those same natural consequences stick. It can also become challenging with more hectic activity and work schedules. But having a “Team Family” approach can make the not-so-fun tasks just part of your family’s normal routine. Jodi Johnson, mother of three, says, “We don’t call them chores. My son came home from school and said he was one of the only kids in class that doesn’t have chores. I smiled and told him he actually does but he doesn’t know any better. It’s just expected in this house—we all pitch in. Dinners, cleaning up, making beds, folding, etc., are a group effort. For us this flows easier because they are not being haggled into a ‘chore.’ They simply chip in where they can to make this house run smoothly.”

Gina Tireman, mother of two, says her family takes a similar approach. “There are no chores in our house. Ever since my kids were little we have talked about a team mentality for our family,” she says. “How we all work together around the house, and at times, some team members have to do more to support those that can’t for whatever reason.” Tireman says the kids are expected to help when asked, but that parents also show them respect. “If they have a lot going on or are maybe having a bad day, I wouldn’t ask much of anything from them.” The approach has worked well with their kids, now 11 and 16, and not only are they generally cooperative, they’re also appreciative. Tireman says, “I also get a lot of thank yous where they appreciate and recognize the things I do for them. They are always quick to thank me for doing their laundry or making dinner, etc. I know this wouldn’t work for everyone, but it works for us.” As wonderful as those examples are, they won’t work for all families, including my own. My husband travels more often than not during the week, so I really do need my kids to help out and be able to get a task done while the rest of us are getting other tasks done. For example, if I come home from substitute teaching, I may need my daughter to put dishes away, my son to take the garbage out, and my other son to feed the dogs all while I’m making dinner quickly

As kids mature, have them help as they can. Starting early with if/then situations will form habits that will make their older years that much easier. before we need to get one of them to practice. When they were younger, we did more things together as a family because they needed to be supervised or assisted, but as they get older, we oftentimes need to divide and conquer whether they want to or not. Again, each family’s dynamic and structure is different, so some parents may actually need more help around the house and some incentivizing may help, as Megan Knox explains. Knox, mother of two, says, “Lately life has been a bit crazy, so we’re not a shining example at the moment, but I can tell you how it used to work. Everyone is expected to do basic tasks like make beds, clean rooms, change sheets, clean bathrooms, etc. Then, I have cards with bigger tasks on them—take out the trash, mow the lawn, wash dishes, etc. Each card has an associated dollar amount. If they complete the task, then they can put in it their jar, and at the end of the week I exchange the card for money, and all the tasks reset. I’m terrible at remembering to track regular chores and weekly allowances, so this was my best solution.” I think this is a great way to set it and forget it as long as there are things that you don’t mind being incomplete or having to do yourself.

This is great point to remember that people and families are wired differently. If the idea of earning money for doing chores doesn’t engage your children, perhaps it will help to discuss how you can best help them remember to do the tasks they are responsible for. I know I am a hands-on paper person and like to make a to-do list for each day. It helps me to remember and focus on what I need to complete without getting distracted. So maybe your children need a daily to-do sheet, a chalkboard reminder, a shared digital calendar reminder or an Alexa reminder to do certain tasks. For instance, we have a reminder set up on our Alexa each night to feed our dogs, and whoever is around gets to feed them—otherwise our dogs will come find us! Use a method that works for your family. Rachel Brogan, mother of two, says, “I found that my girls need reinforcement for their personal jobs during transitions, such as starting school. I lay a paper listing their personal jobs (bed, get dressed, teeth, hair, meds/vitamins) by each breakfast spot. They can collect these papers for 15 minutes of extra weekend computer time. They both participate in community jobs (set table, lead prayer, clear table and

feed dog). I’m not very strict about this. For example, if they’re in the midst of homework, music practice or FaceTiming grandparents, they don’t have to do community jobs.” To keep chores more fair or less monotonous, Sarah Lyons, mother of six, has a great idea: “We have a rotating schedule. Kitchen, yard, trash. Since there are six kids, they get a couple weeks off in between chores. Main areas and toy room are a team effort. Everyone takes turns cleaning their own bathroom. If you share, you rotate. If you are lucky enough to have your own bathroom, you get to clean that yourself. We also have family projects. They don’t get paid, it’s just part of being a family. I just have the kids’ names written down on a chalkboard and move the assignment in that order. K is kitchen, Y is yard, T is trash. I keep it really simple. Kitchen includes wiping off counters, sweeping, helping with dishes after dinner. One parent helps with kitchen duty.” Personally, I have tried a few different charts and some allowance (because I wanted to teach our kids the value of money and how to save, spend and give) but have pretty much stuck to some basic family jobs over the past few years. The problem we have faced is that we couldn’t remember paying out allowances, the kids didn’t seem to care about the money yet and they get tired of doing the same chores. So I like the idea of a rotating chore list like Lyons uses and would assume their interest in money comes along as they get older. Remember that ages and stages matter and that new strategies can be implemented when starting a new season of your life as a family. If you haven’t implemented any type of chore system yet, there’s still time. Chat with your family about expectations and maybe ask what everyone is willing to help out with. You may find that your daughter would love to help with meal prep or that your son enjoys doing yardwork. When everyone helps out, it creates more free time for the family in general to do as they please or do something together. It also can demonstrate how to help each other and to be grateful for all that others do for you. Check out Pinterest for age-appropriate chores and charts that may help your family. Stephanie Loux is the mother of Layla, 11, Mason, 10, and Slade, 7, and is feeling inspired to start implementing some fresh ideas with her household. kcparent.com august 2022

hances are your kid will attend dozens of birthday parties over the course of the next few years. At even $10 a pop for a gift, that can really add up. Now think of all the gifts that come into your own home for birthdays and other holidays. Picture at least half of that stuff eventually going into a landfill or to charity. Talk about a bunch of wasted money! So I’m proposing a radical idea: the no-gift birthday party. You’ll have a lot less cleanup, and the other parents just might thank you. Try it just once and see what you think! Here are some ideas:

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Cook up some fun at a place where kids can cook. Businesses like this often offer birthday parties where kids can make their own pizzas or decorate their own little cakes.

Have a party at a cool place like a nature center and ask for donations. Jaime Perreca, mom of four, says, “More parents are saying ‘no gifts, please’ or are doing a donation thing. We went to a party last month at a nature center and were asked to donate money. Most families put in $10-20. The nature center was SO happy to have our donation.”

Visit www.kansascityzoo.org/birthdays to plan your party today!

Go to a shop where the kids can paint their own pottery creation, which is super fun. Then have cake and ice cream bars.

Ask guests to bring an item from home or even a new book or toy for charity. Your child will get a kick out of taking donations to a local center that helps those in need. Kerrie McLoughlin is the mom of five. Check out her adventures at TheKerrieShow.com.

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PARTYGUIDE

fun and frugal summer birthday ideas By Margaret Sarver

Hire some help Hire a couple of local teens/babysitters If you have kids’ parties this summer, there is no reason that you have to break your bank to throw a great party that kids will never forget!

Make your cake (and eat it, too) Try hosting a makeyour-cupcake/cake party. Guests can help design and bake their own sweet treats. It acts as both the activity and the dessert for the kids and adults! Location, location Have the party in your backyard. If it’s hot, bring out the sprinklers and enjoy frozen summer treats like ice cream and cool drinks. Cute idea: Set up a make-your-own-sundae station.

to help with the party. While you are keeping the kids entertained, the teens can help with cleanup! If you have games, ask the teens to teach the younger kids how to play.

Games Games are an integral part of the party! Instead of going out and purchasing all new games, try setting up “game stations” with board games that you already own. Invite parents of the kids over to help supervise. Rotate stations once each game is complete. Cute idea: Make a version of “Guess Who” using photos of kids attending the party.

Make your own piñata A popular birthday item for kids’ parties is often a piñata. Instead of spending money on a store-made piñata, have the kids at the party make their own piñata using balloons or paper bags and help them stuff it themselves. It’s cost effective for you and more fun for them!

Arts and crafts Set up an arts and crafts station for the guests. You can stock it with leftover items from craft projects and supplement with a few dollar store buys. From paper bag puppets to clay creations and bead jewelry, crafting is fun for all ages and allows for guests to take home their masterpieces at the end of the party.

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kcparent.com august 2022

HELPING KIDS OVERCOME

FEARS

30 august 2022

kcparent.com

hat strikes fear in your heart? Heights? Spiders? Flying in planes? Those are some obvious fears. Some we don’t often think of, though, are ones that live every day in the backs of our heads: fear of failure, being alone, being out of our comfort zone, trying new things or just the unknown. Sometimes they aren’t a big deal, but when it comes to helping our kids work through their own fears and overcome them, we parents have to model the start. Our fears are either rational or irrational. Rational fear is being afraid of something that could cause physical harm or worse. Irrational fears are those things in our head that we tend to make up in order to protect ourselves. We are afraid of letting our kids do something because we don’t want to see them fail, get hurt or struggle with something. We project our fears on them. For instance, this week I signed my son up for an activity last minute because I wanted to make sure he had a friend to be there with him. I didn’t hear back from our friend in enough time to confirm their family was also doing this activity, and I signed him up anyway. I panicked a bit and considered pulling him out when I got confirmation they wouldn’t be joining. I hesitated to cancel long enough, though, to realize he would be fine. It would be good for him to go on his own and see that he could handle it. It was my own fear that almost held him back. As it turns out, he went alone and did great. I was making issues up for him so that I didn’t have to worry about how he handled it. I’ve found my boys to be quite fearless when it comes to doing things. Depending on the age and the stage of the child, many fears come internally. On the other hand, fears sometimes arise from external sources: something kids see somewhere, hear from an adult or even experience themselves. Sometimes, they just don’t understand things. I’ve found quite shocking the way kids process events and emotions they can’t yet understand—why they felt the way they did when someone reacted to them. Or how they felt when having to answer a question or present something in front of a crowd. The truth is, children still feel all the anxiousness and emotion of those experiences but sometimes get brushed off and end up in trouble for being upset. Upsetting experiences call for an open conversation. Ask kids what happened to them and how they felt, then help them interpret the experience as you explain what happened. The more we can help them connect those dots and understand what is going on in their minds and emotions, the more we can help them work through things. One thing I’ve had to do myself and with my kids is to talk about the outcome. We get so wrapped up in what could happen that we let fear take over before we have a chance to see something through. Talk through something before it happens. If children are anything like many adults, they make a bigger deal out of a potential problem than what will really unfold. Go through and form a visual of what could happen and show kids that even if things don’t go as they want, it will be okay. One of the biggest, yet hardest, ways to help kids (and ourselves) get past fears is to face them. We have to experience that something isn’t as bad as we thought it would be.

Often, if we can do the thing we’re afraid of a couple times, some awesome things happen: 1. We learn we can face the fear. 2. We discover that though it’s hard to face fears, we can do the hard things. 3. Our confidence builds for the next time we are afraid. 4. We learn to handle fear instead of run from it. Great life lesson! So you might wonder how to move forward. My first step is always to help prepare my kids. Many times, we fear things because we don’t do enough preparation. This is true for a sporting event, a test, an extracurricular activity—most anything. The more we practice for something and do as much preparation as we possibly can, the more we set ourselves up for success. In life, outcomes are not always positive, but children can learn the confident mindset that though some things are not in their control, they can do everything they can to prepare. This also means supporting kids however you can. Doing scary things gets lonely, even if you are surrounded by people. We come up with all sorts of scenarios of ways it will go wrong or things that will happen. I know when I’m getting ready to go do something

new or travel a lot, the main event doesn’t scare me. The journey is what scares me the most. Find a way to offer children support as they learn to do these things and be independent. At the end of the day, kids have to learn to do things that scare them a little. Sometimes that means joining a group or taking a class for the first time, even when they don’t know what the experience will be like. One tactic is to offer your child a reward. It doesn’t have to be some big reward—I love to offer my kids experiences. Most of the time, though, I try to let them choose the prize because when they choose, they usually work harder and do the hard and scary thing. They need to learn that doing those hard and scary things is not so bad and that they will live to talk about it. I’ve learned that my kids need to realize they can do those things and they will be okay. They need to develop the mindset that they can conquer the fearfulness. Overcoming fears is a challenge that so many adults struggle with. I try my best to lead by example and show my kids that vulnerability. I try to let them know that when something scares me and I’m nervous about it, I’ll still try to do it. The more they see we parents actively do the things that scare us, the more they learn that they will make it through, too.

Lauren Dreher lives in Stilwell with her husband and two toddlers.

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LIAR, LIAR, PANTS ON FIRE

emember the old 1940s Disney character Pinocchio? I’m sure you can recall that every time the little wooden boy lied, his nose grew. I have to say I’m thankful that doesn’t happen in real life! Although I don’t make lying a regular habit in my life, I am just as guilty as the next person of telling little white lies such as, “No, you do not look like you’ve gained weight,” or “Yes, your picture is beautiful,” or even “It is WAY past your bedtime (even though it’s only 6:30).” I’m sure each and every one of us can recall a time in our lives when we lied, whether it was one of those tiny white lies or a real doozy. In fact, many of us probably tell lies now

as adults! Though telling untruths may feel harmless to us, if you’ve ever caught your child in one of these little lies, you know the panic that rises when you think you may have a compulsive liar on your hands. So, what in the world are you to do about it?! Here’s a truth that might help slightly: Lying is actually very common—and normal—among children. According to an article on PBS.org, a study shows 96 percent of children lie, with 4-yearolds lying, on average, every two hours! The good news is these lies are usually pretty harmless. The bad news? The older children are, the more serious the lies tend to be and the better they are at it.

So what causes children to lie? You might be surprised to find out a wide variety of reasons tempt kids to avoid telling the truth. Just some of the reasons kids lie: • To avoid getting in trouble or avoid conflict • To appear cool to friends • For attention • Because they’re under stress • To cover when something bad or embarrassing happens • To be polite • Wishful thinking • Experimenting • To get out of or avoid something • Speaking before thinking

I remind them sometimes the truth is hard to say, but I’m going to love them no matter what happens.

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Lies also look different depending on the age and stage of your child. Around the ages of 2-4, children will lie as a way of testing boundaries or trying out a new behavior, but more often it revolves around wishful thinking. Language skills are still developing, so oftentimes children this age don’t really know, much less understand, where the truth begins and ends. Danielle Calhoon, preschool teacher and Lenexa mom of two, explains further. “Imagination can cause a child to tell a ‘story’ to pass off as the truth, like saying they have a dog (when they don’t) or their family is going on vacation (when they’re not),” she says. “Imagination and pretend play are very important in a child’s development and should be encouraged. Real and pretend concepts tend to flesh out around 3 to 4 years old, so keep that in mind.” Around 5-8 years old, children are definitely able to tell a lie, which is usually to see what they can get away with. Lies around homework, school, friends and eating are common. Most of these lies are fairly easy to detect and don’t involve high stakes. After age 8, lies can become more deceitful, more involved and have farther reaching effects. It’s important to note that lies might be more socially motivated at this stage, too. You may be wondering how parents are supposed to handle lying. One important thing is to note why the lie is happening or what is behind it. Your child’s age and stage, severity of the lie and the frequency are all factors to take into consideration, as well. For the very young children in that 2-4 age range, Calhoon says, “I always advise parents not to ask, but calmly state what you see. ‘I see you ate some of the brownies we were saving for the party. Remember, we need to have enough for everyone. It looks like you have had your share now. Let’s go wash off your face and get ready

to leave.’ This eliminates the power struggle and allows the child to save face. There is no shaming or arguing, just a statement of what happened. But notice it does allow the child to see the consequences of their actions in a way that is natural and logical.” For the remaining ages of children, parents can help their kids avoid lying in the first place. Help your child to understand the importance of trust. “I tell our daughters I don’t trust people who lie. If they lie, I don’t know what is the truth and what isn’t,” Elizabeth Quint, Overland Park mom of two, says. “I always want to trust you, so always tell me the truth. I remind them sometimes the truth is hard to say, but I’m going to love them no matter what happens.” Make sure your child knows telling the truth will equal less severe (but not zero) consequences. Also, give your child the opportunity for a redo if you suspect a lie. Walk away and allow your youngster the opportunity to change the story without consequence—although this technique is not appropriate for a chronic liar. Another a word of caution: Try not to back your child into a corner where he feels “forced” to lie. As Calhoon mentions above, calmly state what you already know instead of questioning, which leaves your child open for a lie. Lorna Walker, Overland Park mom of two, says, “We take each situation as it comes and give our boys a chance to be honest about each one. Sometimes we know they are being dishonest and sometimes we don’t. That’s a normal part of raising kids, I suppose. We always give high praises for being honest and share the benefits from the start, even if they fear us being upset. We also share the consequences for dishonesty from the start. That has helped them want to continue being honest, even if they know we may be disappointed about the situation.”

As always, sharing a good book can be a great teaching opportunity too! The Empty Pot by Demi

Edwurd Fudwupper Fibbed Big by Berkeley Breathed

Howard B. Wigglebottom and the Monkey on His Back by Howard Blinkow Three Bears in a Boat by David Soman

Finally, remember to model the behavior you want your children to copy. If they overhear you lying to someone, chances are they will think it’s okay for them to do the same thing. But if you go about your day with honesty and integrity, believe it or not, they are going to be watching and learning what good character looks like along the way. Julie Collett writes from Overland Park where she has plenty of opportunities to practice honesty with her four children!

kcparent.com august 2022

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table of contents 35 diy crayon shoes 36 product reviews 37 mom quiz 38 smart start to the year 40 on a budget 42 old schoolhouses 44 back to school for moms 46 speed up mornings

kcparent.com august 2022

CRAFTCORNER

Materials needed:

• White canvas shoes • Paintbrush • Acrylic paint in your chosen colors

DIY Crayon Shoes

ummer has flown by once again, and it’s already time to prepare to head back to school! Spend an hour making these custom shoes for your little one or your favorite teacher!

Step one: Paint white shoes in your main color. Allow to dry completely and paint a second coat.

• Paint palette Optional, but you’ll probably need these items:

• 100% acetone nail polish remover

• Hand sanitizer without aloe • Old toothbrush • Cotton balls and/or Q-Tips

Step two: Paint on black crayon stripes. We eyeballed this step, but if you would like the stripes to line up, you can draw on with either a pen or pencil and then paint. Allow to dry completely, then repaint stripes again.

Step three: Allow shoes to dry completely and then clean up any paint. Step four: For the plastic, you will use 100% acetone with either a cotton ball or Q-Tip.

Step five: For the canvas, you will put a tiny bit of hand sanitizer onto the paint you need to remove. Let sit for a minute and then use a toothbrush to scrub. Dry area with a paper towel or rag. Allow to dry, then repaint that section.

Janelle Cumro-Sultzer lives in Manhattan, KS, with her husband, two children and two dogs. Janelle loves to focus on learning through play and getting messy with crafts.

Pencil Creatures

School Bus Photo Frame

Fabric Covered Organizers

For even more great craft ideas, log onto KCParent.com! kcparent.com august 2022

BACK-TO-SCHOOL

PRODUCT REVIEWS By Elena Epstein, Director of the National Parenting Product Awards (RE)ZIP LAY-FLAT LUNCH BAG

A SMART GIRL’S GUIDE: TOUGH STUFF

Food-safe, leakproof, BPA-free, freezer safe and ideal for packing snacks and lunches for school. Perfectly sandwich-sized, and the double-lock closure provides an airtight seal, preventing spills while assuring food and snacks stay fresh all day. $19.99, Rezip.com

A book that shows girls how to get through tricky times—from bullying to body image issues, friendship stress to family struggles, and panic attacks to pandemic. $12.99, ages 10+, AmericanGirl.com

JOT KIDS LIL’ HELPERS With an 8.5-inch writing screen, fun colors and a kid-friendly protective cover, this reusable writing tablet is great for games, handwriting practice or drawing. With the push of a button, the Jot Kids instantly clears itself. $29.99, ages 4+, MyBoogieBoard.com

The corresponding keys and locks give children hands-on practice with number recognition, matching and counting from one to 20—all while building motor skills. $39.99, preschool-1st grade, LakeshoreLearning.com

Get ready to chalk up your vocabulary, spelling and memory skills. An interactive game where players add letters cards to build off of words created by their opponents. It stimulates cognitive function and memory while boosting spelling and vocabulary skills. $25, ages 8+, SimplyFun.com

PACKIE DAYCARE | PRESCHOOL BACKPACK Features an art tube for transporting your child’s art and teacher notes, side water bottle holder, D-ring for hanging toys, waterproof outer coating and an interior zipper compartment. $34, ages 2-5, UrbanInfant.com

UNLOCK IT! NUMBER MATCH

CHALK-A-WORD

TRIANGLE MATH FLASH CARDS

MINI CLOTHING STAMP Mark your kids’ names directly onto their clothing with this personalized Mini Clothing Stamp. Great for tagless tees, sweaters, jackets and uniforms. Small enough for on-the-go labeling, and the compact stamp is preloaded with ink that stays put for approximately 40 washes. $31, MabelsLabels.com

Set comprises 188 addition, subtraction, multiplication and division triangular flashcards for K-6 learners. Get all facts on numbers 0-12 with 752 equations and six bonus facts. $29.99, ages 5-11, ThinkTankScholar.com

FOR MORE PRODUCT REVIEWS, VISIT NAPPAAWARDS.COM.

kcparent.com august 2022

WHAT KIND OF BACK-TO-SCHOOL MOM ARE YOU?

QUIZ

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As the smell of chlorine and sunscreen drift away, replaced by the fragrance of freshly sharpened number two pencils, how is your mama heart feeling? Stereotypes abound on how moms tend to feel on that first day of school, so let’s see whether they hold true with our handy-dandy quiz!

1. What are your thoughts on back-to-school shopping?

6. What are your thoughts on extracurricular activities?

a. Love it! I love the smell of new pencils and new

a. Excited for new routines and lessons. b. Lying low until the pool officially closes and it’s

beginnings! And how cute is this first-day outfit? b. Loathe it. So many supplies. So many clothes. So much of my budget. c. Check it off the list. The first day is coming, and we’re ready.

2. Do you have any traditions for the first day of school? a. Yes! Chalkboard signs, class year t-shirts, donuts

for breakfast and ice cream after school! b. Nope, not following in your crazy footsteps, Karen! c. Yes, first-day pictures on the front step and maybe a fun snack after school.

3. How do you handle first-day pictures? a. My chalkboard sign is ready, their graduation year t-shirts are laid out, and we will take them separately, as a group, at home and at the school! b. It’s hard enough to wake them up earlier than every day this summer, and that’s what school pictures are for in a couple of weeks. c. I’ll snap a couple pictures on our front step, maybe print off a free sign.

4. When do you shop for school supplies? a. We shop as a family as soon as the lists come

out. It’s fun to let them pick out their own folders.

b. Typically, the week before we scrounge

too cold to go to a park.

c. Each of my children can choose one activity

per season.

7. How do you feel about the change of seasons? a. Pumpkin patches, hayrides—bring on the

pumpkin spice!

b. Finally not sweating, but will be too cold too soon. c. I like the change in weather, the leaves changing and the excuse to get cozy.

8. How do you feel about your kids’ moving up to the next grade or school? a. My heart aches with how big they are getting

and those too-big class t-shirts are starting to actually fit now! b. One year closer to an empty nest! c. I like to see my kids grow older and become interesting and capable people, but I’m surprised at how quickly it goes by.

Mostly A’s: Emotional Mama sucking out every last ounce of summer with her kids because we only get 18 summers to make memories! We completed our bucket list and are making our fall bucket list now! Mostly Bs: Tired Out Mom and ready for the nonstop

through to see what is still salvageable from last year and then fill in the gaps as needed. c. We purchase the supply box the school sells. Easy and done!

entertaining and refereeing of my kids to come to an end and get back to the steady routine of the school year. Get them on the bus then pop the champagne with my mom friends to celebrate back to school!

5. Once the kids are safely at school, what are your plans for the first day of school?

Mostly Cs: Regular Mom enjoyed summer with the

a. I’m a bit tearful and spend the day running

errands solo and making homemade cookies for them to come home to and munch on as they tell me all about their first day. b. Finally a break and chance to see MY friends! Champagne, anyone? c. Another season, another hustle.

kids but am ready to launch them into the next school year and see what they learn and how they grow this year.

Stephanie Loux is the proud mom of Layla, 11, Mason, 10 and Slade, 7 and can relate to all the mom feelings in this quiz.

kcparent.com august 2022

GET A

SMART START

TO THE SCHOOL YEAR It’s back-to-school time here in KC, and with it come opportunities to establish great habits for a fantastic new school year for everyone in your entire family! Here are 10 ways you can prepare for the best school year yet! Establish Your School Year Sleep Routine Early Summer’s a great time for late nights and sleeping in. But by resetting to a healthy sleep time/wake time, you start your school days off on the right foot. Don’t wait this one out too long. Small, incremental steps are key. Consider rolling back bedtime 10-15 minutes every few days until you’ve gotten into your ideal school year sleep routine. Likewise, have your children rise earlier in similar increments. Remember: Kids between the ages of 6 and 18 optimally need 10 to 12 hours of sleep. Consider getting blackout curtains to keep summer sunrays shielded during bedtime and shut screens off at least an hour before hitting the hay. By establishing healthy habits before the school year begins, you’ll already be well on your way to a successful academic day.

Be Backpack Savvy Not all backpacks are created equal. In addition to scouting out the coolest prints, patterns or logos, look for gear that is properly fitted to the child, including wide padded straps, padding on the back and a base that rests at the child’s waistline (avoid backpacks that rest lower). A full bag should not exceed 10-20% of a child’s body weight. Encourage your children to use their backpacks properly, utilizing both straps for even weight distribution instead of slinging the bag over one shoulder.

Hit Back-to-School Sales Every year it seems retailers begin offering back-to-school sales earlier. Do your homework to find which places

kcparent.com august 2022

serve your needs best. One of the best places to start? Shopping at home. That’s right! Take inventory of all the leftover supplies your child has from previous years before hitting the store. You might be surprised at how much is covered. From there, build a shopping list, budget and do price comparisons between sellers so you aren’t taken by surprise at the store. For added savings, sign up for email alerts, download couponing apps or become a store rewards member. *Bonus Tip: Not all savings comes in the form of coupons and sales prices. Consider going in on a bulk buy with friends and family for staple items like Kleenex, GermX or office supplies.

Be Prepared for Returns Kids outgrow clothes before they even wear them. Or you buy one too many boxes of office supplies. Whatever the reason to take an item back, make sure you’re aware of the return policies at the retailers you purchase from, whether there are time restrictions, receipts required or in-store credit vs. cash refunds available. Likewise, remember to keep all original packaging and receipts in order to make returns a piece of cake.

Establish a Command Center at Home If you have a specific space within your home for important information and gear (think homework, bills, keys, backpacks and shoes), then it will be that much easier to find what you’re looking for when running out the door in a

hurry. Remember, designated areas help everyone establish good organizational habits! Organization systems abound, and Pinterest offers a broad array of “pinspiration” to get your creative juices flowing. You can go big (built-ins, mud room) or small (a magazine rack for incoming papers and a hook for keys). The key is finding something that works for you and your crew long term so that you will have that much less stress on a day-to-day basis.

Have a Heart-to-Heart Starting school for the first time, going to a new school or simply starting back after a long, lackadaisical summer can trigger anxiety in both children and teens. Keep the pathway of communication open and discuss things if your child has ongoing concerns, fears or unresolved social or academic issues from the previous school year. Take a tour of the school, attend an open house and look for other like-minded families in your community

that attend the same school to establish relationships both inside and outside the formal learning setting.

Rock the School Lunch The sandwich is your most versatile meal on the go. That drab PB&J or ham and cheese can get an instant facelift when wrapped in a pita, tortilla or served bare with an assortment of crackers. Consider a bento-box style lunchbox over a traditional one, as the compartments encourage providing a variety of foods. Limit the amount of boxed items and go for whole foods like fresh berries and yogurt, fresh veggies and hummus or tortilla chips and guacamole. Don’t have a bento? No problem. Use an old Rubbermaid or Glasslock container and place silicone cupcake liners to separate foods.

Make a Countdown Celebration Young and old alike enjoy the anticipation that comes with timelines— and who doesn’t love an excuse to party?

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Fashion a good, old-fashioned paper chain, one loop for each day until the first day of school, and place it in a prominent place within your home. Every day a family member can take off a chain link until there’s nothing left. As the lazy, hazy days of summer come to a close, determine a family celebration day where you fete the end of summer and the advent of school. It can be as simple as going out for ice cream coupled with back-to-school shopping or as elaborate as taking a final summer vacation. Lauren Greenlee is a boymom of four who loves all things back to school related. She writes from her Olathe home.

KC Parent’s

After-School Activities Guide Studies show that kids engaged in sports, the arts, leadership organizations and more improve their social, creative, academic, organizational and goal-setting skills. Whether your kids are into baseball, soccer, swimming, basketball, dance, art or STEM, you’re sure to find extracurricular fun in our After-School Activities Guide which covers programs across the Kansas City metro!

CHECK IT OUT TODAY!

kcparent.com august 2022

BACK TO SCHOOL ON A

BUDGE T

chool supply lists seem to get longer each year. With those longer lists and generally higher prices all around, the price of preparing for school has climbed steeply. Take advantage of these money saving tips to get the most bang for your back-to-school bucks.

SHOP TAX FREE Since 2004, the state of Missouri has offered a back-to-school sales tax holiday. This year the tax holiday will be Aug. 5-7. Tax adds up, so this is a great way to stay on track with your budget, especially if you’re planning on making a large purchase like a laptop. Keep in mind the stores will be much busier this weekend, but your pocketbook will thank you. Here are the guidelines for this year’s tax-free weekend: Clothing – any article valued at $100 or less School supplies – not to exceed $50 per purchase Computer software – valued at $350 or less Personal computers – not to exceed $3,500 Computer peripheral devices – not to exceed $3,500

kcparent.com august 2022

CHECK YOUR INVENTORY

COMPARE PRICES

Look through your child’s supply list and check whether you have any of these items on hand. If you’re anything like I am, you will see unopened paint, markers, glue and crayons in your craft drawer. You may also be able to salvage items from the previous school year. On the last day of school, my daughter came home with three completely unused notebooks, so I put those back for next school year. You might also realize your child’s lunch box and backpack are still in great condition, so you can use those again this year.

The internet has made comparing prices so much easier! Before I purchase an item, I do a quick Google search for the item in the shopping tab. You can compare prices at all the stores that carry that item. Make sure to take into account shipping charges that might apply if you purchase online rather than picking up at a local store.

VISIT THE DOLLAR STORE We love finding arts and craft supplies at our local dollar store. You would be surprised by the name brand items you can find for just a dollar. If you find a great deal, stock up so you have plenty of pencils and crayons for the year. Just be aware you also can sometimes find school supplies for less than a dollar at your local Wal-Mart.

USE PROMO CODES When selling items online, most stores offer a promo code for free shipping or a percentage off a purchase. You might have to search for it, but there is almost always a special in the top banner of a website. You might have to join their email club, but I find that to be worth it. You can always unsubscribe from their emails later.

THRIFT SHOP Check out your local thrift shops for gently-used kids clothing. You can score some great finds! Because kids grow out of their clothes quickly, I like to sell and purchase items from other moms I know.

I’ve been able to find name brand clothes in perfect condition for as little as $2.00 per item. There are many Facebook groups and virtual garage sales you can check out. When my kids have a specific item in mind, I have had great luck with the app Poshmark. I found the exact pair of brand new softball cleats my daughter had her eyes on for just $15 when they were out of stock at the store and online.

SPREAD OUT YOUR SHOPPING Back-to-school season gets me in the mood to purchase a new fall wardrobe for my kids. But in reality, school begins in August when it’s still hot outside. Their summer wardrobe will still work for the first month of school. I like to purchase a few items each month over a few months. I will purchase one or two back-to-school outfits in August and a few more items in September. Jeans can be pricey, but they don’t need jeans until the weather cools down, so I wait to purchase those until

October. By spreading out your clothing purchases, you will have more money to purchase the school supplies. You can also spread out your shopping by purchasing a few items on the supply list each month during the summer. Our school district sent home the school supply list for next year on the last day of school. I’ve grabbed a few items on the list each month over the summer to lessen the burden of the spending in August.

CREATE A SINKING FUND A sinking fund is a great way save for a larger expense by adding to the fund over time. If you plan to spend $800 on school supplies in August, divide that by how many paychecks you have until then. If you have four paychecks, then $200 is the amount you will deposit into your sinking fund on each payday. Then, when it’s time for shopping, you will already have the cash on hand.

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SHOP ALONE My best money saving tip is to leave the kids at home. I find that when I bring my daughter along for back-to-school shopping, my cart fills up with a lot of unnecessary purchases. She decides she needs a new water bottle with her favorite character on it and inexpensive items on your list like a pencil pouch turn into a $20 flip sequin pencil box. I would suggest shopping for the majority of the school supply list on your own and then taking your children to pick out a few special items like their backpack, lunch box and clothes. That way, your kids will still be excited about their new school items, but your budget won’t be taking a hit.

Regan Lyons is a girl mom and freelance writer. She lives with her husband, Cale, and daughters, Atley, 8, and Ensley, 2, in St. Joseph, MO.

kcparent.com august 2022

Lanesfield Schoolhouse

THIS OLD SCHOOLHOUSE:

KC’S HISTORIC SCHOOLS Before your kids head back to school, take a trip back in time to explore one of the area’s old schoolhouses where children can experience firsthand the life of schoolkids more than a century ago.

Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead 13800 Switzer Rd., Overland Park, 913.897.2360 One of the attractions at the farmstead is the replica 1900 one-room country school. With a slate blackboard and antique desks, the school gives children a picture of what learning was like a century ago.

Lanesfield Schoolhouse 18745 S. Dillie Rd., Edgerton, KS, 913.893.6645 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-19th through mid-20th centuries.

Missouri Town 1855 8010 E. Park Rd., Blue Springs, 816.503.4800 Explore more than 25 buildings dating from 1820 to 1860, including a pioneer school. Interpreters in period attire present living history programs, including school lessons, during special events.

kcparent.com august 2022

Mt. Gilead Church & School 15918 Plattsburg Rd., Kearney, MO, 816.736.8500 Mt. Gilead School, built in 1879, operated for more than half 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 School House Located in Ironwoods Park, 147th & Mission Road, Leawood, 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 yearround (except during Open House hours).

Shawnee Town 1929 11501 W. 57th St., Shawnee, 913.248.2360 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 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.

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PRIME

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It's PRIME time to discover education that's as unique as you are! Learn more at oakhilldayschool.org/academics/prime | 816.436.6228 Oakhill Day School will seek diversity in its student body and welcome enrollment by students of any race, color, national or ethnic origin, gender or sexual orientation, and any other characteristic protected under applicable law. It prohibits unlawful discrimination, harassment, and retaliation on the basis of any protected category under applicable federal, state or local laws or ordinances, including but not limited to Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VI), Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VII), Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967 (ADEA), Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (Title IX), the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Section 504), specifically, but not limited to, discrimination, harassment, or retaliation on the basis of sexual orientation, gender or sex, race or ethnicity, ethnic group identification, ancestry, nationality, national origin, religion, color, mental or physical disability, age, or on the basis of a person’s association with a person or group with one or more of these actual or perceived characteristics in Oakhill Day School’s educational programs or activities.

kcparent.com august 2022

BACK TO SCHOOL FOR MOM! 44

an you believe it?! As you read this, summer is drawing to a close and school is about to open! This might have some of you jumping for joy and others of you dreading all the backto-school insanity. Or maybe you are like I am, finding yourself somewhere in between! Back to school can be a stressful time for children and moms alike, but no matter which side you find yourself on, find a way to make going back to school fun for you, too, not just the kids!

STYLE SAVVY Many families allow room in the budget for new school clothing, tennis shoes, backpacks, school supplies and such. Kids are happy and feeling their best, but what about you? Consider buying yourself something new, too! How about that new purse you’ve been eyeing? A new suit for work? Or that cool pair of sneakers you didn’t want to spend the money on? Now is the time! Rebecca Powell, Basehor mom of four, says, “I love to grab a new lunch bag for myself. Since I pack my lunch for work, it is a little something fun for back to school for me too!”

YOU TIME Say what?! You’ve probably missed a little of this over the summer, so why not set aside some time now that the kids are back in school? Consider looking into local mom groups, such as a MOPS group or Building Better Moms, which Church of the Resurrection offers, or consider starting a group with other moms from your school. This is not only a way to take time for yourself, but also to connect with other moms. If you prefer solo time, look no further! We are so fortunate to live in an area where finding a place for pampering, whatever that is for you, isn’t hard to find!

kcparent.com august 2022

CATCH-UP As if this is really a thing, but we can dream, right?! I don’t know about you, but all my to-do tasks, creative projects and appointments take a back seat during the summer. Who am I kidding … they aren’t even in the car! Once school has started and you feel like you can catch your breath for a moment, take a look at all those things you wanted to, needed to, hoped to, planned to get done … and didn’t. Then start chipping away at that list! Go ahead and schedule all those yearly checkups for yourself, gather donations, make the photobook, take the car in for an oil change, get the plumber over for that leak, buy all the lightbulbs that need replacing.

PREPPING Perhaps you are already caught up (who ARE you?!) and want to use the new-found free time you have to be proactive. Bulk grocery shop (imagine Costco … alone!); organize and plan meals for the month; swap out summer for fall clothing; batch cook breakfast burritos, muffins or freezer meals; take inventory of needs for fall and winter—the list could go on forever. This isn’t necessarily a way to have fun, but the fun comes later when you realize you’ve already taken care of things.

Remember that while back to school can be fun and exciting, the season can also hold anxiety and stress for your kids. We moms feel all those emotions and more too! However, once that first day or first week of school is over, and you are all back in the swing of the academic routine, be sure to take care of yourself. Find those ways of having fun yourself—you 110% deserve it! Julie Collett writes from her home in Overland Park where it always takes her a few weeks to find her groove again once the kids are in school!

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HELPFUL WAYS TO

SPEED UP THE MORNING ROUTINE

ornings can be a whirlwind of unexpected bumps from all manner of lost soccer cleats, misplaced raincoats and forgotten homework. Make it easier with a few do-ahead ideas. Families are on the cusp of another school year, and there is no better time to begin anew with ideas to keep your morning running smoothly from the get-go. Take a look at some of these suggestions and maybe even tape this list to your fridge so you can involve your kids in the process. Make it a game and put stickers on each suggestion when you use it!

PLACE TOOTHBRUSH AND TOOTHPASTE IN A CUTE BOWL BESIDE THE SINK

PREP BREAKFAST AND LUNCH On this note, there are varied options. If you feel particularly energetic, you can make Mickey Mouse-shaped pancakes. On other mornings, instant oatmeal or a bowl of cereal will work. Don’t stress yourself. Cut up fruit the night before and put it in the fridge. If you are gluten free, make muffins over the weekend to warm a bit as the kids pack their backpacks. As for lunches, prepare those together the evening before for a sweet, shared habit. Fill those Tupperware containers with the sandwiches they like, their favorite fruits and the snacks for football or soccer practice after school. And remember to put a note in! My children loved my writing on the napkin: You are amazing! You are smart! I love you!

Brushing teeth in the morning is a must after breakfast. Make sure kids remember by making sure the tools are right in front of them. Even try getting little toothpaste tubes and different toothbrushes for mornings and put the evening toothbrushes in the cabinet. Have your children decide where they want the bowl. In the sink? On the shelf above the sink? In the drawer with their hairbrush? Young children will develop the habit that will last through childhood and beyond.

SELECT CLOTHING FOR THE NEXT DAY AND LAY ITEMS OUT Before bedtime each day, spend time choosing the shorts they like, the shirts they want to wear, the socks and tennis shoes. Lay items out in cubbies marked with a giant sticker or spinning light. Little ones can be picky! And you certainly don’t want your little kindergartner to go to school wearing red with purple. Having it all laid out and ready for kids to grab and put on in the morning is a dream.

OBSERVE STRICTER BEDTIMES This sounds like common sense, but those bedtimes need to apply to you too, Mom and Dad. When your kiddos finish taking baths, brushing teeth, reading and snuggling, you should consider getting ready for bed, too. If you make a goal to be consistent with all of the house bedtime rules, mornings will be easier. This allows you to wake up earlier, have that cup of coffee and possibly throw a load of laundry in before the rest of the house wakes up.

kcparent.com august 2022

CREATE CHECKLISTS Whether you put this checklist on your phone, your laptop or on the mirror in their bathroom, this will help: • Brush your teeth. • Wash your face. • Do your hair. • Get dressed in the clothes we laid out last night. • Eat breakfast. (Consider placing another list in the kitchen to detail menu options.) • Get your school supplies ready to go. • Pack the lunch we made together in your backpack. • Put on your shoes.

DESIGNATE A BACKPACK STATION

HAVE SOME MOMMY TIME

Even if you don’t have a mudroom, you can create a spot. In your kitchen, put hooks beside the door you go out when you take your kids to the bus stop or the garage. We used to clear out the backpacks the night before, find homework that needed to be done, papers that needed to be signed, and lay them on the floor! Then, add their mats to sleep on, their notebooks, their lunch the next morning. Or consider loading the car the night before! If you have space, hang the backpacks on hooks within reach of kids’ hands.

When possible, try to make a few minutes for yourself in the morning. Read a chapter of your book. Return some emails. There is a saying that you can’t pour from an empty cup. Remember to fill your cup. Truly, your kids will take their cue from your mood. If you’re happy and cheerful, they’ll follow suit.

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CHECK THE WEATHER THE NIGHT BEFORE If a cold front is sweeping in, get jackets out. If heat is building, dress your children appropriately. This is all a team effort, too. Have your kids look at the weather app with you and see for themselves what is going to happen. It gets them involved, and then they can talk about it with their friends. Remember, have fun. Children love games, and setting a timer can add some excitement to their morning. When they are particularly tired or out of sorts, give them awards to sweeten the efforts of efficiency.

EMPTY THE DISHWASHER THE NIGHT BEFORE It’s much easier to clean up breakfast dishes when the dishwasher is ready and waiting. The last thing anyone wants to do is come home to smelly scrambled egg plates in the sink. Run it right after dinner and empty it right after the kids go to bed. Sounds simple but it’s a nice little perk for you.

An avid outdoors girl, Judy Goppert lives in Lee’s Summit. She enjoys drawing on her personal experiences to write about the nuances of everything wonderful about life. Sources: RookieMoms.com, ModernParentsMessyKids.com

kcparent.com august 2022

AUGUST

festivals

ACROSS KANSAS CITY Summer is festival season in Kansas City! Visit KCParent.com and use our Festival Guide for a complete guide to fests and fairs all season long!

Innovation Festival Aug. 6, 11:00-10:00, Crown Center. Innovation Festival is a convergence of music and innovation, featuring two scientific conferences and a day of music and innovation. Grand Carinvale Thru Aug. 7, Worlds of Fun. Enjoy amazing high energy live music, delicious international food, lively games and unique crafts! ivale

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Butterfly Festival Thru Aug. 7, Powell Gardens. Spend a day outdoors exploring tropical and native butterflies alongside stunning botanic displays. This festival is a Kansas City family-favorite!

Missouri State Fair Aug. 11-21, Missouri State Fairgrounds. Enjoy “Buckets of Fun” with a carnival, food trucks, livestock demonstrations, competitions, concerts, live entertainment and more.

Parkville Days Aug. 19-22, Downtown Parkville. Enjoy a variety of family-friendly entertainment. Browse and enjoy arts and crafts, retail, food and specialty booths.

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Ethnic Enrichment Festival Aug. 19-22, Swope Park. Feel the world beat in the heart of America with live entertainment, food, crafts, demonstrations and more. al

BBQ & Fly-In on the River Aug. 19-20, Excelsior Springs Airport. More than 70 barbecue teams compete to take home the trophy! Great music, food, beer, cornhole tournaments, a barbecue Calcutta and so much more!

Jazzoo 2022 Aug. 26, Kansas City Zoo. Party animals from across the metro will gather to enjoy unlimited food, drinks and entertainment—all while raising money for the Kansas City Zoo.

Downtown Olathe Fourth Friday Aug. 26, Downtown Olathe. Enjoy great kids activities, live music, food trucks and more!

Jazzoo 2022

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Find the complete Summer Festival Guide on KCParent.com.

kcparent.com august 2022

Apple Picking

DAY TRIPS

t’s apple picking season! These local farms are great day trip destinations for families.

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 for current hours and information.

OUR TOP PICKS: Our top pick farms are all robust attractions with u-pick, agritourism and great play spaces for kids. Plan a half day to full day at these farms picking fruit, tasting delicious goodies and playing together as a family.

FUN FARM KEARNEY: 650 N. Jefferson St., Kearney, MO, 816.628.0028 The Fun Farm is the place for all-day FUN. This beautiful farm in Kearney stands out in the crowd thanks to 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

LOUISBURG CIDER MILL: 14730 K68 Hwy., Louisburg, KS, 913.837.5202 Though 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 at this favorite attraction in Louisburg, KS. LouisburgCiderMill.com

POME ON THE RANGE: 2050 Idaho Rd., Williamsburg, KS, 785.746.5492 Now under the same ownership as Louisburg Cider Mill, Pome on the Range is a beautiful orchard in Franklin County, KS. Enjoy the u-pick apple orchard, cider donuts, wines, cider, pies and other home goods. Free wine-tasting every day. PomeOnTheRange.com

WESTON ORCHARD & VINEYARD: 18545 Co. Rd. H,

JOHNSON FARMS PLANTS AND PUMPKINS:

Weston, MO, 402.209.4117

17701 S. State Rte. D, Belton, 816.331.1067

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 of fruit, hayrack rides, apple cannons, rat racers, bouncing pillow, low ropes course with zip line, kids corn maze and more! OrchardWeston.com

Johnson Farms in Belton 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. JohnsonFarms.net

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ADDITIONAL ALPHABETICAL LISTINGS: ALLDREDGE ORCHARDS Day Trip Tip: Visit Watkins Mill Historic Site in Lawson, MO. The historic site offers a visitor center, museum, the 1861 woolen mill, the 1850s Watkins family home, the 1856 Franklin Academy and the 1871 Mount Vernon Baptist Church. In addition to the museum, the state park is home to hiking trails, a fishing lake, a swim beach and campgrounds.

CIDER HILL FAMILY ORCHARD Day Trip Tip: After apple picking, head to Legends Outlets where you can enjoy free events on the Lawn, including concerts, outdoor movies and workout sessions. This outdoor outlet shopping center offers more than 75 leading designer and favorite brand-name stores.

PETER’S ORCHARD Day Trip Tip: Step back in time at Fort Osage Historic Site, where you can learn history at the first U.S. outpost in the Louisiana Purchase. Exhibits present history of the local Osage tribe, as well as military history.

ROCK CREEK APPLE ORCHARD Day Trip Tip: Visit Powell Gardens on your trip and explore their Fortopia exhibit this summer or enjoy their Festival of Butterflies (July 21-Aug. 7). One of our favorite botanical gardens, Powell Gardens is a delightful place to spend a summer day.

Fun Farm Kearney

SCHWEIZER ORCHARDS Day Trip Tip: Explore St. Joseph Museums. St. Joseph Museums comprise five separate museums and exhibits in one location. Three have history buffs in mind. Native American Galleries tells of tribes from across the United States and includes an archaeological dig box for children. Black Archives Museum tells the story of slavery to Civil Rights, and the WWI exhibit shows how the Midwest struggled with the Great War.

SUNFLOWER ORCHARDS Day Trip Tip: Go to Cedar Cove Feline Sanctuary where they offer tours of their facility, devoted to the care and preservation of endangered large cats, to educate the public on their behavior, physiology, habitats and the threats and dangers of extinction. And, visit Louisburg Cider Mill where you can watch as cider is made from scratch, enjoy fresh apple cider donuts and more. Tip: They purchased Pome on the Range where you may pick apples.

WAGON WHEEL ORCHARD Tip: Make an appointment to pick at this orchard. Day Trip Tip: Visit the Lanesfield School Historic Site where you learn about the history of education in rural Kansas in the late-19th through mid-20th centuries and learn what an average school day was like for children.

Kristina Light writes regularly about the best family attractions in Kansas City on KCParent.com.

Johnson Farms Plants and Pumpkins

Weston Orchard & Vineyard kcparent.com august 2022

august

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

CALENDAR

PNC kidFEST at Union Station

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

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watch

create

enjoy

see

learn

New Theatre Restaurant presents Freaky Friday: The Musical throughout August. See a new musical adaptation of the beloved novel. NewTheatre.com

Mondays head to Ceramic Café for Muddy Mondays. Have you wanted to try throwing clay on a wheel? A clay expert will show you how. Pre-reg at 913.383.0222.

The Ethnic Enrichment Festival is back, Aug. 19-21 in Swope Park. Festival features food, crafts and performances from more than 60 nations. $5. EECKC.net

On Aug. 27 Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead presents Movie Night. Grab a blanket and enjoy an outdoor movie. Activities before the movie. OPKansas.org/events

Head to Science City at Union Station on Aug. 27 for the PNC kidFEST. A family-friendly day full of science play geared toward early childhood learning! UnionStation.org

1 Monday

2 Tuesday

Sensory-Friendly Days 9:00, Johnson County Museum. Limited occupancy session for kids with sensory processing differences and autism spectrum disorders. Pre-reg at JCPRD.com.

Festival of Butterflies 9:00, Powell Gardens. Spend a day outdoors exploring tropical and native butterflies alongside botanic displays. PowellGardens.org

Curious George: Let’s Get Curious! 10:00, Crown Center. Children will have fun as they explore the world of Curious George! CrownCenter.com

Discover Sea Life 10:00, Sea Life Aquarium. Explore an underwater world! Kids will love the touch pool, sea turtles and more! Save $5 on tickets with code KCPARENT22. VisitSeaLife.com

Story Time for Families 10:00, various branches (MCPL). Hear stories, sing songs, join in movement activities and create memories together. Pre-reg at MyMCPL.org. Our Culture at Play Thru Oct, T/m Museum. Featured exhibit explores how iconic characters both influence and reflect American culture. ToyAndMiniatureMuseum.org Muddy Mondays 10:30, Ceramic Café. Have you always wanted to try throwing clay on a wheel? A clay expert will show you how to get started. Pre-reg at 913.383.0222. Jazz on the Square 5:30, Corbin Theatre. The Corbin Theatre presents Jazz on the Square on the first Monday of every month. Free. CorbinTheatre.org

Time Travelers 10:00, Shawnee Town 1929. Step back in time to the 1920s with family activities in this living history program. ShawneeTown.org Grand Carnivale Thru Aug 7, Worlds of Fun. Celebrate the sights, sounds, smells and tastes from cultures around the world. WorldsOfFun.com Johnson County Fair Thru Aug 6, Johnson County Fairgrounds. Celebrate all the best in Johnson County. Carnival, nightly arena events and more! JoCoKansasFair.com

3 Wednesday Summer Movie Madness Thru Aug 11, Union Station. Special promotion on tickets for movies at Regnier Extreme Screen Theatre. Details at ExtremeScreen.UnionStation.org.

Open Gym 9:30, Kaw Prairie Community Church. Grab a coffee from the coffee shop and hang out with friends while your kiddos get their energy out! KawPrairie.org Alice’s Wonderland 11:00 & 1:00, Coterie Theatre. Adapted from Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, this musical is fun for all ages! TheCoterie.org Monarchs Baseball 7:00, Legends Field. Cheer for the Monarchs as they take on the Kane County Cougars. Great family fun! MonarchsBaseball.com The Spongebob Musical Thru Aug 6, Shawnee Theatre in the Park. The residents of Bikini Bottom face total annihilation until a most unexpected hero appears. TheatreInThePark.org

4 Thursday Alligator Alley 9:30, Kansas City Zoo. Bring the family and visit the zoo! Be sure to check out the new Alligator Alley! KansasCityZoo.org Pay for Play 10:00, Backyard Specialists. Plan a playdate for your children and their friends at the amazing showroom! BackyardSpecialists.com

17701 Holmes Road, Belton, MO www.JohnsonFarms.net

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Missouri State Fair Aug. 11-21, Sedalia. The 400-acre fairground in Sedalia features livestock shows, competitive exhibits, carnival rides and more! MOStateFair.com

Herp Days Noon, George Owens Nature Park. Meet one of the fantastic, cold-blooded creatures—snake, salamander or turtle. GeorgeOwensNaturePark.org

Fresh Air Friday 10:00, Kansas Children’s Discovery Center. Join on Fridays for outdoor play in open spaces where kids can explore! KansasDiscovery.org

Freaky Friday: The Musical Noon & 6:30, New Theatre Restaurant. A new musical adaptation of the beloved novel is heartfelt and comedic. NewTheatre.com

Fridays in the Park 11:30, Macken Park (NKC). Enjoy a Friday summer afternoon in the park listening to local musicians. NKC.org

Paws in the Pool 4:00, Ad Astra Pool (Lenexa). Bring four-legged friends for a plunge in the pool where dogs can splash and swim! Pre-reg at Lenexa.com. Summer Music Series 7:00, Prairiefire. Take in the music while you enjoy some of the best food and patios in Overland Park! VisitPrairiefire.com

5 Friday Tax-Free Weekend Thru Sunday, various locations. Take advantage of Missouri’s tax-free weekend and shop for back-to-school deals.

Seussical the Musical Today & tomorrow, Kauffman Center. The Culture House performs this fantastical, magical, musical extravaganza! CultureHouse.com Pop Ups with a Purpose 4:00, Outreach International. Join on First Fridays in the heart of the Crossroads as we pop up our makers and shakers. TheStrawberrySwing.com Rock the Amp 6:00, Legacy Park. Enjoy a concert in the amphitheater! Tonight’s lineup includes the Phil Collins Experience. Tickets at CityOfLS.net.

Sounds on the Square 6:00, Linden Square. Grab your blankets and lawn chairs and join for a night of music under the stars. LindenSquare.info Summer Concerts in the Park 6:30, Central Park (Zona Rosa). Bring a chair, blanket and friends and enjoy free concerts on Fridays and Saturdays. ZonaRosa.com Summer Concert Series 7:00, Ward Parkway Center. Join for a free outdoor concert with genres from jazz and classic rock to Irish and indie. WardParkwayCenter.com

NOW OPEN

Exhibition organized by New-York Historical Society

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First Fridays 7:00, Crossroads Art District. Art galleries, retailers and other participating art venues of the Crossroads Art District showcase their art. KCCrossroads.org

Orienteering 11:30 or 2:30, Anita B Gorman Discovery Center. Navigate through nature, learn to read a map and to use a compass. Prereg at MDC.mo.gov.

Public Tours 11:00, Cedar Cove. Explore Cedar Cove with an experienced guide. See these epic animals and learn about them. Tours start every half-hour. SaveOurSiberians.org

6 Saturday

Parkville Cruise Nights 4:00, Downtown Parkville. Hang out with friends, listen to music, check out all the cars and explore downtown Parkville. ParkvilleMO.org

KC Northern Train Rides Noon, Line Creek Park. Ride restored trains around a half-mile track in the park. $.75/ride. KCNRR.com.

Lenexa Farmers Market 8:00, Lenexa Civic Campus. Bring your kids to the market and let them learn about the food they eat. Lenexa.com Shop Small Saturdays 9:00, Brew Haha Coffeehouse. Shop vendors showcasing local products and sip local coffee. Enter to win giveaways! KCLocalCraftFair.com Family Fossil Find 9:30, Martha LaFite Thompson Nature Sanctuary. Learn to find and identify fossils of Missouri and take home a fossil you make! Pre-reg at NatureSanctuary.com. Mother Nature Reads 10:00, Lakeside Nature Center. Little ones enjoy a nature-themed story time.LakesideNatureCenter.org/events Innovation Festival 11:00, Crown Center. A day of music and innovation, featuring scientific conferences and a day of music and innovation. TheInnovationFestival.com

Movies in the Park 6:00, Hitt Park (Greenwood). Bring lawn chairs and snacks and enjoy a free outdoor showing of Despicable Me! GreenwoodMO.com Movie Night on the Lawn 7:00, Legends Outlets. Enjoy family-friendly movies on the Lawn every Saturday during summer. LegendsShopping.com Public Viewings 8:00, Powell Observatory. Bring lawn chairs or blankets to see images from the Ruisinger on a large screen. ASKC.org/ observatories/powell-observatory

7 Sunday Farmers Market 9:00, the City Market. The market is open year-round and offers a variety of fresh produce, meat, specialty groceries and more. TheCityMarket.org

Alice’s Wonderland 2:00, Coterie Theatre. Adapted from Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, this musical is fun for all ages! TheCoterie.org Back-to-School Bash 4:00, Westside Family Church. Enjoy a fun afternoon of inflatables, balloons, face painting, yard games and more. Pre-reg at WestsideFamily.church. Music in the Park 6:00, Rotary Park. Enjoy a relaxing evening outdoors with free, live musical entertainment. BlueSpringsGov.com

8 Monday Story Time for Families 10:00, various branches (MCPL). Hear stories, sing songs, join in movement activities and create memories together. Pre-reg at MyMCPL.org. Our Culture at Play Thru Oct, T/m Museum. Featured exhibit explores how iconic characters both influence and reflect American culture. ToyAndMiniatureMuseum.org

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Tiny Tot Tri Aug. 20, Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park. Kids ages 3 to 9 years will bike, get wet, run and slide their way to the finish line! Lenexa.com

Muddy Mondays 10:30, Ceramic Café. Have you always wanted to try throwing clay on a wheel? A clay expert will show you how to get started. Pre-reg at 913.383.0222.

9 Tuesday Fortopia 9:00, Powell Gardens. Enjoy a playful exhibition composed of awe-inspiring forts that invites explorers of all ages to discover the gardens! PowellGardens.org Preschool Indoor Playground 9:30, Irene B French Community Center. Too warm to play in the park? Ride, slide and play inside! Parents supervise children. Merriam.org/park Pay for Play 10:00, Backyard Specialists. Plan a playdate for your children and their friends at the amazing showroom! BackyardSpecialists.com Discover Nature 2:00, Anita B Gorman Discovery Center. Go on an adventure to make amazing discoveries as you explore on a trail. Pre-reg at 816.759.7300.

U-PICK APPLES ~ PUMPKIN PATCH WINE TASTINGS ~ SLUSHIES HAYRACK RIDES ~ KIDS PLAY ZONES JAMS ~ CIDER ~ PIES ~ DONUTS

10 Wednesday Mom & Me Bumper Bowling 9:30, Summit Lanes. For just $3 per person, you get a game, shoe rental and drink on Mondays and Wednesdays. SummitLanes.com Discover Legoland 10:00, Legoland Discovery Center. Spend the day at the ultimate Lego playground. Save $5 on tickets with code KCPARENT22. LegolandDiscoveryCenter.com

Photo by Seth Ferrin

Retro Story Time 10:00, Johnson County Arts & Heritage Center. Hear a story from long ago read by a guest from the 1950s All-Electric House! Craft included. Pre-reg at 913.831.3359.

11 Thursday

Babysitting Class 10:00, Indian Creek Library. Class covers babysitting business basics, behavior issues and emergency situations. Pre-reg at OlatheLibrary.org.

Missouri State Fair Thru Aug 21, Sedalia. The 400-acre fairground in Sedalia features livestock shows, competitive exhibits, carnival rides and more! MOStateFair.com

HISTORIC

WESTON ORCHARD &VINEYARD

Alligator Alley 9:30, Kansas City Zoo. Bring the family and visit the zoo! Be sure to check out the new Alligator Alley! KansasCityZoo.org

18545 County Road H Weston, MO 64098 816-640-4013 www.westonorchard.com

VOTED TOP 10 ORCHARDS IN THE NATION BY USA TODAY! Open 7 days a week from 9-5

Aug 1 - Sept 2 ~ $5 daily Sept 3 - Sept 6 ~ $10 daily

Seniors (60+) ~ $8 daily Sept 3 - Oct 31

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Sept 17 - Oct 31 ~ $12 M-F ~ $15 Sat & Sun Active Military ~ $10 daily

Toddler Time 10:00, Ceramic Café. On Thursdays from 10:00 to 2:00, toddlers 5 and under can paint one selected item for just $10! CeramicCafeKC.com

Summer Concerts on the Lawn 7:00, Kansas City Museum. Bring a blanket and picnic and enjoy a concert on the lawn! Tickets at KansasCityMuseum.org.

Family Fishing 9:30, Burr Oak Woods Nature Center. Learn fishing basics and then practice your new fishing skills. Equipment and bait provided. Pre-reg at MDC.MO.gov.

Herp Days Noon, George Owens Nature Park. Meet one of the fantastic, cold-blooded creatures—snake, salamander or turtle. GeorgeOwensNaturePark.org

Family Twilight Hike 8:00, Ernie Miller Nature Center. Join for a quiet hike to connect with nature and night sounds. Ages 8+. Pre-reg at 913.826.2805.

Kids Club 10:00, Colonial Gardens. Kids enjoy fun activities while you shop at Colonial Gardens or savor a coffee at the Bean Counter. Pre-reg at ColonialGardensKC.com.

12 Friday

Li’l Abner 8:30, Gladstone Amphitheatre. Enjoy a rousing, bombastic, tuneful American musical under the stars. GadstoneTIP.com

Birds: Hummingbirds 101! 10:00, Anita B Gorman Discovery Center. Learn about the native plants, sweet nectar and insects loved by this tiny creature. 816.759.7300

Curious George: Let’s Get Curious! 10:00, Crown Center. Children will have fun as they explore the world of Curious George! CrownCenter.com

13 Saturday

Fridays in the Park 11:30, Macken Park (NKC). Enjoy a Friday summer afternoon in the park listening to local musicians. NKC.org

Junque n’ Donuts 8:00, Louisburg Cider Mill. Miami County’s best outdoor flea market and craft sale. Grab some lunch and enjoy yard games. LouisburgCiderMill.com

Second Friday 5:00, downtown Excelsior Springs. Shops open late, featured artists, live musicians, great eats—there’s something for everyone! VisitExcelsior.com

Race with a Point 9:00, Journey Church International. A race for everyone, all ages and fitness levels! Fundraiser for CarePortal. Pre-reg at RunSignUp.com.

Sounds on the Square 6:00, Linden Square. Grab your blankets and lawn chairs and join -for a night of music under the stars. LindenSquare.info

A 19th Century Picnic 9:00, Missouri Town 1855. Pack a picnic and participate in period lawn games, join in a quilting bee and more! MakeYourDayHere.com

Dogs Days of Summer 10:00, Shawnee Town 1929. Enjoy dog-friendly vendors, splash pools, music, contests, prizes and more! ShawneeTown.org Train Rides 11:00 & 2:00, Belton, Grandview and KC Railroad. Take a 40-minute trip along the tracks of the Frisco Railroad and enjoy a fun afternoon! KCRRM.org Cruise Night 6:30, Merriam Marketplace. A popular night of cars and motorcycles in downtown Merriam. Enjoy live music and food trucks. ExploreMerriam.com

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DANCE SHOPPE Celebrating 37 Years in KC Whether you’re a beginner dancer looking for your first leotard or a seasoned performer in need of a pointe shoe fitting, Dance Shoppe is your go-to dance store for the best selection of leotards, tights, shoes and accessories.

15% OFF

all regularly priced merchandise EXPIRES AUGUST 31, 2022

TESTIMONIAL: I brought my daughter in for a professional pointe shoe fitting. After trying on over twenty pairs of shoes, my daughter was fitted into the perfect shoes for her. I was blown away with their customer service – it was certainly worth the drive from Johnson County. — Lynne, Overland Park

512 NW ENGLEWOOD RD. | KANSAS CITY, MO 64118 DANCESHOPPEINC.NET | (816) 455-1995

Raytown Live 7:00, Town Center Greenspace. Bring blankets or lawn chairs and join folks from all over to kick back and enjoy the tunes. UnctionMedia.com/rp2019 Summer Concert Series 7:00, Ward Parkway Center. Join for a free outdoor concert with genres from jazz and classic rock to Irish and indie. WardParkwayCenter.com Overnight Fishing 11:00, Shawnee Mission Park. Grab your fishing pole and lantern for an overnight fishing experience. Park police will be on duty. JCPRD.com

14 Sunday Art Garden KC 11:00, Pendleton Heights Neighborhood. Weekly art fair with more than 60 vendors, food trucks, live music, kids activities and more! ArtGardenKC.business.site Sunday Funday 1:00, Legends Field. Play carnival games, bounce in inflatables, play catch on the field and even more! MonarchsBaseball.com Free Afternoon Program 1:30, Prairie Park Nature Center. Free program for the family may include video, slideshow and going outside to enjoy nature. LawrenceKS.org Music in the Park 6:00, Rotary Park. Enjoy a relaxing evening outdoors with free, live musical entertainment. BlueSpringsGov.com

15 Monday Story Time for Families 10:00, various branches (MCPL). Hear stories, sing songs, join in movement activities and create memories together. Pre-reg at MyMCPL.org.

NOW OPEN! LIMITED Group Size Morning and Afternoon Sessions Enhanced Cleaning

Museum

8788 Metcalf Ave Overland Park, KS jocoahc.com

For more info & to book your session: JCPRD.com/Museum

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Our Culture at Play Thru Oct, T/m Museum. Featured exhibit explores how iconic characters both influence and reflect American culture. ToyAndMiniatureMuseum.org Muddy Mondays 10:30, Ceramic Café. Have you always wanted to try throwing clay on a wheel? A clay expert will show you how to get started. Pre-reg at 913.383.0222.

16 Tuesday Preschool Indoor Playground 9:30, Irene B French Community Center. Too warm to play in the park? Ride, slide and play inside! Parents supervise children. Merriam.org/park Curious George: Let’s Get Curious! 10:00, Crown Center. Children will have fun as they explore the world of Curious George! CrownCenter.com

Tots on Tuesday 10:30, Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art. Tots on Tuesday is now virtual! Sing songs, read books, explore art and more. Pre-reg at KemperArt.org. Discover Nature 2:00, Anita B Gorman Discovery Center. Go on an adventure to make amazing discoveries as you explore on a trail. Pre-reg at 816.759.7300.

17 Wednesday Farmers Market 8:00, Downtown Lee’s Summit. Purchase a variety of fresh produce, plants, meat, baked goods, handmade crafts and more. DowntownLS.org Open Gym 9:30, Kaw Prairie Community Church. Grab a coffee from the coffee shop and hang out with friends while your kiddos get their energy out! KawPrairie.org Weekly Life on the Farm Tour 5:30, Colonial Gardens. Activities may include feeding the chickens, hugging an alpaca or holding a baby goat! ColonialGardensKC.com Freaky Friday: The Musical 6:30, New Theatre Restaurant. A new musical adaptation of the beloved novel is heartfelt and comedic. NewTheatre.com

18 Thursday Missouri State Fair Thru Aug 21, 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. Plan a playdate for your children and their friends at the amazing showroom! BackyardSpecialists.com

Little smiles can have a BIG impact!

Free Family Fun Nights 5:00, Kansas Children’s Discovery Center. Come explore a special place where children can create, discover and learn through play. KansasDiscovery.org

New Patient Special Offer:

$55*

Includes exam, cleaning and x-rays

Summer Music Series 7:00, Prairiefire. Take in the music while you enjoy some of the best food and patios in Overland Park! VisitPrairiefire.com

*Limited Time Offer *Services provided by a MO licensed dentist *Not valid with any other offer, discount, program/plan

Third Thursday Programs 7:00, Clay County Museum. Free program for all ages! This month’s theme is Clay County in the Civil War. ClayCountyMuseum.org

19 Friday Fridays in the Park 11:30, Macken Park (NKC). Enjoy a Friday summer afternoon in the park listening to local musicians. NKC.org

Children’s Dental Visit

Most Insurance Plans Accepted

www.TheSmileSpot.com The Smile Spot Waldo 8043 Wornall Road, Suite 203 Kansas City, MO 64114 Phone: 816-363-2900

The Smile Spot Independence 651 E US Hwy 24, Independence, MO 64050 Phone: 816-461-0300

kcparent.com august 2022

SIX-STOP TOUR: WICHITA AREA Take a day trip to Wichita, KS, and explore these favorite attractions. 1. ANIMAL PLAY

2. EXPLORATION

3. SCENIC OUTDOORS

4. DYNAMIC DINOS

5. TREASURE HUNT

Tanganyika Wildlife Park is an incredible facility where families can experience wildlife like never before. Tanganyika features more than 40 exhibits featuring 10 interactive stations, more than 400 animals and 37 successful breeding programs. Choose one of their Wildly Different Experiences where you can get up close with a variety of zoo animals and learn more about them.

Visit Exploration Place, a hands-on children’s museum where you may rivet an airplane wing, chuck buffalo chips, marvel at a miniaturized 1950s Kansas or rule a medieval castle. Catch a film on the dome screen. These one-of-akind experiences and more are available in 12 dynamic exhibit galleries packed with hands-on science fun for the entire family.

Botanica is a beautiful botanical garden and outdoor attraction with a variety of gardens that include a children’s garden, Chinese friendship garden, Shakespeare garden, railroad garden and more. Visit the Alexander Bee house and learn the important role honeybees play in the environment. The children’s garden is a magical haven where kids follow the Rainbow Trail and explore Monster Woods. Botanica.org

Enjoy gigantic fun at Field Station: Dinosaurs, where guests are invited to spend the day with dinosaurs by walking among more than 40 life-size, moving and realistic dinos. The attraction also offers live shows, games and activities, including Paleo Playground, an observation tower, Jurassic Zoo bouncer, Raptor Maze and Jurassic Golf.

History lovers will enjoy a visit to the Museum of World Treasures where visitors experience exhibits on the lives of dinosaurs, ancient Egyptians, past presidents, sea creatures of the Plains, the American Civil War, Vietnam War, World War I and II, Africa, Asia and more. Exhibits tell historic stories from every corner of the world.

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6. SCIENTIFICALLY DELICIOUS Churn & Burn is a Wichita favorite. This local ice cream and coffee shop makes old-fashioned ice cream with local ingredients. Diners watch as workers freeze the ice cream using liquid nitrogen, creating a fresh, smooth, one-of-a-kind ice cream that’s almost as much fun to watch being made as it is to eat.

Ethnic Enrichment Festival Thru Sunday, Swope Park. Festival features food, crafts and performances from more than 60 nations. $5. EECKC.net

Shakespeare Under the Stars 7:30, Independence Square. A unique reader’s theatre production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. VisitIndependence.com

Reenactment Event 10:00, Shoal Creek Living History Museum. Enjoy family fun activities and historical demonstrations. ShoalCreekLivingHistoryMuseum.com

Local Life Today & tomorrow, downtown Overland Park. Explore locally owned businesses, activities and more. Head to DowntownOP.org for details about this month’s theme.

Light Up the Lawn 8:30, Nerman Museum. Bring your blankets, lawn chairs and picnic baskets for this fun event featuring Calvin Arsenia! JCCC.edu/midwest-trust-center

Little Acorns 10:00, Anita B Gorman Discovery Center. Join volunteer naturalists for a fantastic journey through magical places as they read books. Pre-reg at 816.759.7300.

Outdoor Movies in North Park 9:00, Zona Rosa. Grab a blanket or lawn chair to watch a classic summer flick under the stars! ZonaRosa.com

Train Rides 11:00 & 2:00, Belton, Grandview and KC Railroad. Take a 40-minute trip along the tracks of the Frisco Railroad and enjoy a fun afternoon! KCRRM.org

Third Friday Art Walk 5:00, downtown KCK. Free, family-friendly events. Art exhibits, performances, food and more. EpicArtsKC.org Parkville Days Thru Aug 21, Downtown Parkville. Great family fun in historic downtown Parkville. Carnival rides, music, crafts and more! ParkvilleMo.org BBQ & Fly-In on the River Today & tomorrow, historic downtown Excelsior Springs. More than 70 competitive smoke-cooking teams vie for top honors. VisitExcelsior.com Mini Mud Run 5:30, Hawk Ridge Park (Raymore). Kids 4-12 run through a number of outdoor obstacles. Prepare to get muddy! Raymore.com Concert in the Courtyard 6:30, Merriam Community Center. Live music, games, face painting, caricature and balloon artists and more! ExploreMerriam.com

20 Saturday Lost Trail Days 9:00, 10:00 or 11:00, Louisburg Cider Mill. Tour includes viewing of soda production run, samples and more! Free; prereg at 913.837.5202. Tiny Tot Tri 9:30, Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park. Kids ages 3 to 9 years will bike, get wet, run and slide their way to the finish line! Lenexa.com Wilma’s Birthday Party 10:00, Lakeside Nature Center. Celebrate Wilma’s birthday with an animal and snake encounter and pet reptile rescue. LakesideNatureCenter.org

Sing, Dance, Act, Make, &Play! Dance, Music, Theatre, and VIsual Arts classes for kids!

Bonds, Bail Bonds Melodrama 5:00 & 7:30, Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop and Farm. Bring the whole family to boo the villains and cheer the heroes! Mahaffie.org Public Viewings 8:00, Powell Observatory. Bring lawn chairs or blankets to see images from the Ruisinger on a large screen. ASKC.org/observatories/powell-observatory

21 Sunday Public Tours 11:00, Cedar Cove. Explore Cedar Cove with an experienced guide. See these epic animals and learn about them. Tours start every half-hour. SaveOurSiberians.org

WEE

Child Development Center ORKSHOP “Where Your Child is Special”

2 weeks to 12 years ChildAges Development Center 6:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. “Where Your Child Is Special”

Ages 2 weeks to 12 years 6:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

10% OFF infant room for Two Convenient Locations: Child Development nd & enrollment. MetcalfCenter Ave 127th &year Antioch first with162 new “Where Your Child is Special” 913.681.2191 913.681.2190 2 weeks to 12 since years FamilyAges Owned and Operated Part-Time Preschool (Ages 1990 3-5) 6:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. 9:00-11:30 or 9:00-3:00 weeworkshopchildcare.com Mother’s Day Out (12 mos-3 years) 9:00-3:00

Open House • August 27 • 10AM-12PM Fall Classes begin September 6 Ask about PAYMENT PLANS & SCHOLARSHIPS

816.531.4022 • KCYA.org 3732 Main Street • KC, MO

Two Convenient Locations: 127th & Antioch

162nd & Metcalf Ave

913.681.2190 Two Convenient913.681.2191 Locations:

162nd &and Metcalf Ave 127th & Antioch Family Owned 913.681.2191 913.681.2190 Operated Since 1990 Family Owned and Operated since 1990 weeworkshopchildcare.com weeworkshopchildcare.com kcparent.com august 2022

Art Garden KC 11:00, Pendleton Heights Neighborhood. Weekly art fair with more than 60 vendors, food trucks, live music, kids activities and more! ArtGardenKC.business.site KC Northern Train Rides Noon, Line Creek Park. Ride restored trains around a half-mile track in the park. $.75/ride. KCNRR.com. Free Afternoon Program 1:30, Prairie Park Nature Center. Free program for the family may include video, slideshow and going outside to enjoy nature. LawrenceKS.org

22 Monday Free Music Lessons Thru Aug 26, Music House. Reserve a spot for a free week of lessons! Guitar, piano, drums, voice, sax, trumpet and more! MusicHouseSchool.com Fortopia 9:00, Powell Gardens. Enjoy a playful exhibition composed of awe-inspiring forts that invites explorers of all ages to discover the gardens! PowellGardens.org Alligator Alley 9:30, Kansas City Zoo. Bring the family and visit the zoo! Be sure to check out the new Alligator Alley! KansasCityZoo.org

Washed Ashore 9:00, Botanica (Wichita). Exhibit featuring giant sea life sculptures made entirely of marine debris collected from beaches. Botanica.org

Monarchs Baseball 7:00, Legends Field. Cheer for the Monarchs as they take on the Winnipeg Goldeneyes. Great family fun! MonarchsBaseball.com

23 Tuesday

25 Thursday

Curious George: Let’s Get Curious! 10:00, Crown Center. Children will have fun as they explore the world of Curious George! CrownCenter.com

Pay for Play 10:00, Backyard Specialists. Plan a playdate for your children and their friends at the amazing showroom! BackyardSpecialists.com

AKMA After Hours 5:00, Albrecht-Kemper Museum of Art. After-hours event features kids games and activities, chance to visit exhibitions and more! Albrecht-Kemper.org

Discover Sea Life 11:00, Sea Life Aquarium. Explore an underwater world! Kids will love the touch pool, sea turtles and more! Save $5 on tickets with code KCPARENT22. VisitSeaLife.com

Freaky Friday: The Musical 6:30, New Theatre Restaurant. A new musical adaptation of the beloved novel is heartfelt and comedic. NewTheatre.com

Herp Days Noon, George Owens Nature Park. Meet one of the fantastic, cold-blooded creatures—snake, salamander or turtle. GeorgeOwensNaturePark.org

24 Wednesday

26 Friday

Farmers Market 8:00, Downtown Lee’s Summit. Purchase a variety of fresh produce, plants, meat, baked goods, handmade crafts and more. DowntownLS.org

Tiblow Days Today & tomorrow, Bonner Springs. Community event includes a parade, musical entertainment, barbecue competition, car show and more! BSEDWChamber.org

Wee Wednesday 10:00, Kansas Children’s Discovery Center. Designed for toddlers learning to use their senses to play, explore, create and investigate. KansasDiscovery.org

Fourth Fridays Art Walk 5:00, Downtown Lee’s Summit. Showcases from local artists, live music, shops, restaurants and more! DowntownLS.org/fourthfridays

THE KANSAS CITY MUSEUM IS NOW OPEN Exhibits, programs, and ExpEriEncEs about Kansas city’s past, prEsEnt, and futurE.

Photo: Gayle Babcock, Architectural Imageworks

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kansascit ymuseum.org

Fourth Friday 5:30, Downtown Olathe. Enjoy great kids activities including face painters, balloon artists, glitter tattoos, bubbles and more. FourthFridays.Olathe.org Popcorn in the Park 6:00, Capitol Federal Sports Complex of Liberty. Bring family and friends, along with blankets and lawn chairs, for a movie on the big screen. LibertyMissouri.gov Sounds on the Square 6:00, Linden Square. Grab your blankets and lawn chairs and join for a night of music under the stars. LindenSquare.info

Movies in the Park 8:00, Great Lawn at Meadowbrook Park. Bring a blanket and enjoy A Bug’s Life with the family under the stars! JCPRD.com

Summer Concert Series 7:00, Ward Parkway Center. Join for a free outdoor concert with genres from jazz and classic rock to Irish and indie. WardParkwayCenter.com

27 Saturday

Movie Night on the Lawn 7:00, Legends Outlets. Enjoy family-friendly moves on the Lawn every Saturday during summer. LegendsShopping.com

PNC kidFEST 10:00, Science City at Union Station. A family-friendly day full of science play geared toward early childhood learning! UnionStation.org Nature Art Various times, Anita B Gorman Discovery Center. Learn how to make a cool t-shirt practicing the ancient Japanese art of gyotaku. Pre-reg at MDC.MO.gov.

Jazzoo 2022 7:00, Kansas City Zoo. Alligators are coming to the zoo ... and Jazzoo! Be a part of the wildest fundraiser in Kansas City! KansasCityZoo.org/jazzoo

Bands on Byars 3:00, Grandview Amphitheater. A fun, family-friendly event with outdoor live music, games and food and drink vendors. GrandviewAmp.com

Light Up the Lawn 8:30, Nerman Museum. Bring your blankets, lawn chairs and picnic baskets for this fun event featuring Making Movies! JCCC.edu/midwest-trust-center

Movie Night 5:00, Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead. Grab a blanket and enjoy an outdoor movie. Activities will be held before the movie. OPKansas.org/events

Movies in the Park 7:00, Electric Park. Bring a blanket or lawn chairs and the family to see Karate Kid under the stars! Lenexa.com

Rock the Amp 6:00, Legacy Park (Lee’s Summit). Enjoy an outdoor concert along with children’s events and more! Fun for the entire family! CityOfLS.net

Public Viewings 8:00, Powell Observatory. Bring lawn chairs or blankets to see images from the Ruisinger on a large screen. ASKC.org/observatories/powell-observatory

28 Sunday Farmers Market 9:00, the City Market. The market is open year-round and offers a variety of fresh produce, meat, specialty groceries and more. TheCityMarket.org Public Tours 11:00, Cedar Cove. Explore Cedar Cove with an experienced guide. See these epic animals and learn about them. Tours start every half-hour. SaveOurSiberians.org Art Garden KC 11:00, Pendleton Heights Neighborhood. Weekly art fair with more than 60 vendors, food trucks, live music, kids activities and more! ArtGardenKC.business.site

Farm Fresh History since 1858! Check out our website and Facebook page for summer fun!

7/31/19

Experience Livestock Feeding & Summer Picking on the Farm 1200 Kansas City Road Olathe, Kansas • 913.971.5111 Activities vary by season Visit www.mahaffie.org

Visit ColonialGardensKC.com for hours and details. kcparent.com august 2022

KC Northern Train Rides Noon, Line Creek Park. Ride restored trains around a half-mile track in the park. $.75/ride. KCNRR.com Free Afternoon Program 1:30, Prairie Park Nature Center. Free program for the family may include video, slideshow and going outside to enjoy nature. LawrenceKS.org Music in the Park 6:00, Rotary Park. Enjoy a relaxing evening outdoors with free, live musical entertainment. BlueSpringsGov.com

29 Monday Gym for Me 9:00, Lenexa Community Center. Play items are available, including push toys, riding toys, balls and inflatables. Lenexa.com Mom & Me Bumper Bowling 9:30, Summit Lanes. For just $3 per person, you get a game, shoe rental and drink on Mondays and Wednesdays. SummitLanes.com Story Time for Families 10:00, various branches (MCPL). Hear stories, sing songs, join in movement activities and create memories together. Pre-reg at MyMCPL.org.

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Trailblazers Esports Club 4:00, Indian Creek Library. Play casual and competitive Esports games with teens locally and nationally. OlatheLibrary.org

30 Tuesday

31 Wednesday Farmers Market 8:00, Downtown Lee’s Summit. Purchase a variety of fresh produce, plants, meat, baked goods, handmade crafts and more. DowntownLS.org

Fortopia 9:00, Powell Gardens. Enjoy a playful exhibition composed of awe-inspiring forts that invites explorers of all ages to discover the gardens! PowellGardens.org

Alligator Alley 9:30, Kansas City Zoo. Bring the family and visit the zoo! Be sure to check out the new Alligator Alley! KansasCityZoo.org

Lenexa Farmers Market 9:00, Lenexa Civic Campus. Bring your kids to the market and let them learn about the food they eat. Lenexa.com

Open Gym 9:30, Kaw Prairie Community Church. Grab a coffee from the coffee shop and hang out with friends while your kiddos get their energy out! KawPrairie.org

Preschool Indoor Playground 9:30, Irene B French Community Center. Too warm to play in the park? Ride, slide and play inside! Parents supervise children. Merriam.org/park

Wee Wednesday 10:00, Kansas Children’s Discovery Center. Designed for toddlers learning to use their senses to play, explore, create and investigate. KansasDiscovery.org

Discover Nature 2:00, Anita B Gorman Discovery Center. Go on an adventure to make amazing discoveries as you explore on a trail. Pre-reg at 816.759.7300.

Discover Legoland 11:00, Legoland Discovery Center. Spend the day at the ultimate Lego playground. Save $5 on tickets with code KCPARENT22. LegolandDiscoveryCenter.com

Freaky Friday: The Musical 6:30, New Theatre Restaurant. A new musical adaptation of the beloved novel is heartfelt and comedic. NewTheatre.com

Weekly Life on the Farm Tour 5:30, Colonial Gardens. Activities may include feeding the chickens, hugging an alpaca or holding a baby goat! ColonialGardensKC.com

L A N T E R N F E S T I VA L AT T H E K A N S A S C I T Y Z O O

kansascityzoo.org 816.595.1234

$5 OFF

ONE GENERAL ADMISSION TICKET Terms/Conditions: Two ways to redeem this offer: 1) For guaranteed entry book online at LEGOLANDDiscoveryCenter.com/ Kansas-city or visitsealife.com/Kansas-city under the “buy tickets” tab, select “promotional code” and enter the code provided below. 2) Walk-up and present this offer to LEGOLAND Discovery Center Kansas City or SEA LIFE Aquarium Kansas City. Offer valid at admissions only when walk-up tickets are available. This offer is only valid on the full price rate and does not include a LEGO collectible. Online reservations strongly encouraged for guaranteed admission. Copies are not accepted. Cannot be combined with any other promotional rates. This voucher must be surrendered upon arrival. Adult must have a child with them for entry. Final interpretation resides with LEGOLAND Discovery Center Kansas City or SEA LIFE Aquarium Kansas City. LEGO, the LEGO logo, the Brick and Knob configurations and LEGOLAND are trademarks of the LEGO Group. ©2022 The LEGO Group. CODE: KCPARENT22. Exp: 8/30/2022

KC Parent Magazine August 2022

Articles inside

Speed Up Your Morning Routine

Save Money on Supplies

Date Night

Craft Corner

Tasty Treats

Dear Teachers

5 Things

Word from Dad

Women's Health

Help Kids Overcome Fears