And just like that–August has arrived. It whistles us back to the routine tossed aside to enjoy warm afternoons, lazy evenings and adventures near and far. I do love summer! I also love the rhythm of routine that comes as we move toward fall.
Before you succumb to the demands of back-to-school madness, be sure to enter our Soak Up Summer giveaway! See pgs. 46-49 for some ideas to check off your endof-summer list. Then go get some school shopping done so that you’ll have the margin to enjoy the outing if you win!
August is an interesting keystone: wrapping up summer, readying for school, preparing for all the activities and being hot and bothered along the way! Ha! As you scramble to put a bow on a fun (and restful?) summer, don’t overlook carving out a moment for yourself. We’ve got a Back-to-School Guide full of tips and ideas to set you up for a great academic year—as well as some things for you to consider as you make yourself a priority.
Additionally, thanks for your great feedback regarding your Family Favorites! Carve out a few minutes to continue voting online at KCParent.com. In fact, bookmark it and check back often. We have all kinds of great insight and ideas for you at KCParent.com!
Savor the season, Kansas City!
With you on the journey,
Lauri Clapper, Editor
Publisher Michael Gimotty Michael@KCParent.com
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Editor Lauri Clapper Lauri@FamilyMediaGroup.com
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SPOTLIGHT
SOAK UP SUMMER GIVEAWAY
August is a great time to pause before the first school bell rings for a last hurrah of summer. We’ve got some fabulous giveaways to local attractions – check it out on KCParent.com!
PARK JAUNTS
Looking for a new park to explore? Whether you need to get out of the house with your little one(s) or your fur baby, check out our Park Jaunts feature on KCParent.com for some outing inspiration!
DATES GOING LOCAL
The streetcar is such a great thing for KC, and my husband and I use it quite often. It’s nice to be able to park once and then visit several places. We’ve done streetcar progressive dinners many times, which are always fun. We stop at one place for appetizers or drinks, another place for entrees and a third place for dessert. But now we’ve decided to take it up a notch and do progressive date nights, which include more than just food.
For our first one, we started out in the River Market, walked the Town of Kansas Bridge and then took the stairs down to the riverfront to look at some public art. The bridge pays homage to the founding of our great city and is worth a visit all on its own. Back in 1850, our city was named Town of Kansas. In 1853, it was changed to the City of Kansas. Then in 1889, it became what we know it as today, Kansas City. The bridge provides nice views of the Missouri River and riverfront and—at the right time of day—a beautiful sunset.
From there, we took the streetcar to Modern Market Eatery, a new health-conscious, fast casual lunch and dinner place near the Power & Light District. They feature bowls, salads, soups, sandwiches and pizza. My husband enjoyed the blackened chicken mango bowl, while I gladly feasted on a build-your-own herb shrimp bowl with arugula salad and fire-roasted veggies. The food was fantastic, and we will definitely be going back to try the pizza, blueberry pesto sandwich and Nutella waffle.
Our next stop was Union Station, which is always an enjoyable place to go. For free, you can check out the amazing model train gallery, interesting Union Station Stories exhibits and beautiful architecture. We also like looking at all of the pictures in the southeast hallway showing how Union Station was built. So much history in that place.
Our final stop was dessert at Charisse, which is an underrated gem of a restaurant in downtown. I opted for the Guinness chocolate cake with Irish cream and whiskey caramel, which was amazing. My husband had the blueberry bread pudding, which he happily polished off. In addition to several good dessert choices, Charisse also has tasty burgers, salads, salmon and truffle fries.
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. Check out her Facebook page, Out & About in KC.
pudding slime
Calling just for ingredients out of your kitchen, this fun project will be sure to entertain your crew, and you will feel safe knowing that if this slime ends up in anyone’s mouth, it is absolutely safe to eat!
Supplies:
• 1/4 c. vanilla instant pudding
• 1 c. corn starch, divided into halves
• 1/3 c. of warm water
• Mixing bowl
• Spoon/spatula
• Optional: food coloring
Directions:
Step one: Pour 1/4 cup of instant pudding and 1/2 cup corn starch into the mixing bowl.
Step two: Slowly add 1/3 cup of warm water into mixing bowl.
Step three: Stir mixture until evenly wet.
Step four: Slowly add the remaining 1/2 cup of corn starch, mixing as you go.
Step five: Lightly dust your countertop or table with a light sprinkling of corn starch. Move slime onto countertop and knead slime as you would dough for bread.
Step six: Continue to mix slime until it takes on a slime-like texture, and you are good to go!
Step seven: Optional: Add food coloring onto slime and continue to knead slime to mix in food coloring.
TIP 1: If your slime is too sticky, try adding a little corn starch. If your slime is falling apart, try adding a little water.
TIP 2: We tried to add the food coloring to the water but found the color was very washed out this way, so it’s better to add after the slime is made, if at all!
Janelle Cumro-Sultzer lives in Manhattan, Kansas, with her husband, three children (1, 3 and 5) and two senior dogs. Janelle is mainly a stay-at-home mom in addition to being a mediator at a local counseling center. Janelle loves to focus on learning through play and getting messy with crafts.
Starting School in Winter
“Is everybody ready?” I gave James and Ian a smile, but they didn’t answer. It was OK; I didn’t expect one. Although James had just turned 5, and Ian was only 3, both were still preverbal.
Concerned about the failure of our boys to develop speech, after a series of fits and starts, we attended a meeting following an evaluation conducted by Children’s Mercy Hospital where we received a diagnosis: autism spectrum disorder. Severely impaired. With no cure, we were advised to give them immediate and intensive special education.
Following a conclusive meeting with the school district, we went back-toschool shopping in February. The normal school sales had ended almost six months earlier, but we had our Captains of Chaos ready for their academic career. Not about to let them leave unprepared, we’d put their coats and backpacks in a convenient place, then waited for the short bus that would take them a quantum leap out of our lives.
Sandi sensed my mood. “Do you want to take them to the bus? Shall we both walk them out? Or would you rather I do it?”
“I’m not sure I could handle it, not this first time. Even with you beside me, I don’t think I’d be able to keep from crying.”
She rubbed my back in a circular motion and smiled. “You big softie. Don’t worry, I’ll do it.” Sandi joined the boys where they sat, intent on a cartoon DVD and oblivious to our interchange.
I resumed my vigil by the picture window but didn’t have to wait long. “BUS!”
Winter coats were slid on and zipped, backpacks were put on, and all in a mad scramble. Sandi took a hand of each and led them to the bus, backpacks hanging down to their knees.
I wiped my eyes.
William R. Bartlett lives in Kansas City with his family.
MUSEUM HOURS Monday - Saturday 9am - 4:30pm
Want More in Life?
Become a foster parent to experience the joy of parenthood and help children in need.
Thousands of children in the Kansas City area are in crisis due to child abuse, neglect and other family challenges. These children need someone like you to care for them and their future.
People from all walks of life can become foster parents. Whether you’re single or married, own or rent your home, have kids or not, identify as LGBTQ+ or don’t, and work full-time or stay at home — you may qualify!
Pretend Parks IN KANSAS CITY
These local playgrounds offer pint-sized worlds where children can imagine what they’ll be when they grow up.
Antioch Park
6501 Antioch Rd. Merriam
Antioch Park’s Dodge Town transports you right into the Wild West! Parents can relax in the shade while children explore this mini town, which includes a bank, blacksmith shop, city hall, general store, Pony Express, schoolhouse and train station. Two accessible playgrounds are connected to this play area.
Belton’s Memorial Park
998 Commercial St. Belton
This accessible playground inspires pretend play with both a fire engine and play train. The shaded playground, pond and walking trails are a favorite gathering place for families.
Calamity Line Park
901 W. Santa Fe St. Olathe
With a showstopping train-themed play structure, this whimsical playground is the perfect place to play for rail fans. The giant play structure allows children to climb and pretend they are train engineers and passengers.
Bryan C. Pottberg Park
5200 Campground Rd. Lee’s Summit
This 25-acre park offers a shelter, playground equipment for toddlers and older children and a walking trail. The firefighter-themed playground features a fire truck with a slide and monkey bars as the cool factor at this park. The park also offers swings, a mini rock wall and a gazebo.
Variety KC Inclusive Play Zone at KCI
At Kansas City International Airport, located in the Concourse B amenity node next to Safi Fresh near Gate B54
This delightful airplane-themed playground allows children to imagine they are pilots and passengers. Best of all, the fun playground is accessible to children of all abilities. This is a perfect place to play as you await flights at the new KCI airport.
Antioch Park’s Dodge Town
Congo Tropicals Organic Dark Chocolate
How excited can a person get about chocolate? Well, let me tell you! I try to sneak in dark chocolate for the family, as it’s healthier. This is the one that had them asking for more! It’s smooth and doesn’t have a bitter bite— you can taste its exceptional cacao bean heritage. This brand brings all kinds of exotic tropical offerings such as coffee, chocolate and fresh produce straight to your doorstep. CongoTropicals.com
McLain’s
Urban Air
My crew loves being set loose to enjoy all that Urban Air has to offer. This indoor amusement park had my kids entertained for hours! I watched them jump, bump, throw, race, climb—and fly! A quick stop for a refreshment and they were at it again. In fact, we recently had a birthday party at Urban Air and everyone loved it. Let there be bouncing! UrbanAirOverlandPark.com and UrbanAirLenexa.com
5THINGS WE RIGHT NOW
I have wonderful memories of McLain’s with my grandmother. My little self was thrilled when she folded a bear claw pastry into her order and shared it with me. As McLain’s expands around Kansas City, I continue to delight in their sumptuous baked goods, curated kitchen curiosities and inviting ambiance. Stop in or drive through as a treat to yourself. Yum! McLainsKC.com
LOVE
Compiled by Lauri Clapper
Maysama Red Light Therapy Panel
Messner’s Bee Farm
These are no boring bees! Messner’s has created an incredible line of delicious and intriguing products! Their Farm Shop in Raytown is worth a trip, bursting with helpful staff and an endless array of whimsical products. I highly recommend the lip balm, hot honey, flavored creamed honeys and honey caramels—truth be told I don’t think I could be disappointed, as everything has proved lovely! MessnerBeeFarm.com
When I first learned about red light therapy, I was skeptical but curious. Once I learned more, I was ready to jump in. Dang, it continues to amaze me! See Gretchen’s article on p. 16 for more insight and resources. Personally, I use an LED red light from Maysama Beauty along with a green rooibos skincare product for skin rejuvenation. Amazing! Also, a few minutes on other spots has alleviated localized pain. Look into it! Maysama.com
Have you considered red light therapy?
Since this is only my second appearance in this magazine, I would like to introduce myself again.
I am a pediatric occupational therapist (OT) with many years of experience working with children of all ages with varying ranges of difficulties. Because OTs tend to think holistically, I like to bring some knowledge of many types of healing therapies to my clients. I am a nerdy researcher type, and when I find something I am interested in, I can sit for hours reading research articles about the topic.
A couple years ago, I began hearing a little bit in some videos and podcasts about red light/near infrared light therapy or photobiomodulation (PBM), but I ignored it. Typically, it was an ultrafit body builder discussing the therapy, so it seemed inapplicable for this middle-aged,
average-in-every-way type of person. But two summers ago as my husband and I waited in a Mexico airport, an eager salesperson strongly encouraged me to try her red light machine on my face. I was laughing on the inside because somehow she thought I had $3,000 for her machine. The salesperson also talked about joint pain relief, so I made my husband try the red light on his chronic wrist pain from an old injury. It was the kind of shooting pain that would bring him to tears if he moved it wrong. As we boarded our plane, he said he thought it felt a little better. I was very skeptical because nothing he had tried before had helped him. The next day, though, he moved his wrist around and said, “I am not kidding—it feels a lot better!” I was intrigued, and that day began my one-month deep dive into all things red light/PBM therapy.
I will attempt to sum up in one sentence how red light therapy works: The wavelengths of the red light help the mitochondria in your cells to keep moving energy through its channels, which is important for every system in your body. As we age or struggle with illnesses, these channels get bogged down.
What actually happens in the cells is a lot of complex science, and it can be overwhelming to try to understand. Here are my two favorite places to look for accurate, researched-based information if you would like to learn more:
• Red Light Therapy Report Podcast by Dr. Mike Belkowski. He often reports on all-new research coming out about red light therapy and different ways to use it.
• An amazing database of all current red light therapy research—7,931 articles at last count—check out this Google document (Did I mention I am a nerd?): TinyURL.com/rltinfo
Currently I own three different sizes of red light devices. My husband and I use red light most every day for back pain, neck pain, headaches, eye fatigue, skin care and overall general health.
Here’s what I always suggest to a potential buyer after two years of using red light therapy and loving it:
• Find a company that has third-party testing on its products that verifies the output. The certificate should be available to view.
• Find a company that has good verified reviews with an easy return policy.
• Spend a little more for a good product so that you know it actually helps versus a cheaper product that might not do you any good.
• Do your own research into how to best use red light for your particular concern.
Gretchen Fontanini works as a pediatric occupational therapist in Manhattan, Kansas. In her free time, she loves spending time with family and friends or listening to biohacking podcasts.
Vive la France!
This year, the Summer Olympics will be hosted in Paris from July 26 through Aug. 11. If a trip to this storied city is not in the family budget, you can still experience a taste of France in Kansas City.
Kansas City: Paris of the Plains
One of Kansas City’s nicknames is Paris of the Plains. The city’s trademark boulevards, fountains and beautiful art inspired the moniker. Take a tour of the city’s fountains and boulevards this summer with maps and information available at CityOfFountains.org.
The French Market
6943 Tomahawk Rd., Prairie Village, FrenchMarketKC.com
Located next to Cafe Provence, a country-chic restaurant with a quaint atmosphere serving authentic French cuisine, the French Market offers prepared grab-and-go entrees and sides, freshly baked French bread, pastries and desserts and a wide selection of artisanal cheese and charcuterie. Additionally, the shop sells imported specialty foods and gifts.
The Art of French Cooking
The Culinary Center of Kansas City (KCCulinary.com) offers cooking classes year-round, teaching techniques focused on a variety of cuisines and countries. Their catalog includes courses in French cooking and baking. The Culinary Center Teaching Kitchen at MidContinent Public Library (MyMCPL.org) also offers cooking classes throughout the year, and their courses have included French cuisine. Registration is required for classes, and programs fill quickly.
French Cuisine
Across the metro, you can indulge your taste buds at one of the city’s local bistros or cafes. Favorites include Le Fou Frog in the River Market, Aixois in Brookside, Charisse KC and Tailleur Restaurant in Downtown KCMO, Cafe Provence in Prairie Village and Cafe des Amis in Parkville. For breakfast or brunch, try one of downtown’s creperies: Chez Elle or Seven Swans. Satisfy your sweet tooth with macarons from Andre’s Confiserie on the Plaza or in Overland Park, Bloom Baking in the River Market or Annedore’s Chocolates in Westwood Hills.
The French Collection at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
4525 Oak, Kansas City, Mo., Nelson-Atkins.org
The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art is beloved for its vast collection of art from around the world—including its European collections. Within that collection, the museum holds a total of 110 French paintings and pastels dating from between 1600 and 1945. Among the masterpieces in the collection, you will find art by Nicolas Poussin, François Boucher, Edouard Manet, Claude Monet, Edgar Degas, Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec and Paul Gauguin, among others.
Claude Monet, Water Lilies, at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
AUGUST IN KANSAS CITY CROSSWORD PUZZLE
ACROSS
1 The oldest continuously operating school in Kansas City, Missouri, founded in 1866, is named for what saint?
2 This city hosts the Missouri State Fair in August.
4 On Aug. 12, 1952, this rhythm and blues song written by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller was recorded. (Two Words)
8 The region’s oldest festival, held annually on the last weekend of August.
9 This state was admitted to the Union on Aug. 10, 1821.
10 PHOTO CLUE: Aug. 9 is the birthday of this bear that promotes fire safety and who may be visited at Burr Oak Woods Nature Center.
DOWN
1 On Aug. 25, 1931, this beloved film set in Kansas debuted. (Four Words)
3 The Summer Olympics Closing Ceremony will take place on Aug. 11 in this city.
5 Aug. 16 is an annual city-wide holiday inspired by this type of code.
6 This team’s first preseason game will be held Aug. 17.
7 Aug. 16 is National Roller Coaster Day. This is the tallest coaster at Worlds of Fun.
CELEBRATE THE 85TH ANNIVERSARY OF
The Wonderful Wizard of Oz is Kansas’ iconic story. Some great Sunflower State attractions celebrate the beloved tale. Published in 1900, L. Frank Baum’s masterpiece is considered America’s first fairy tale, and it holds a special place in the hearts of Kansans and Kansas Citians alike. The story of Dorothy’s fantastical journey through the land of Oz has enticed generations.
August is the month to celebrate the 85th anniversary of the classic film The Wizard of Oz. It premiered on the big screen on Aug. 12, 1939, in Wisconsin, and was aired three days later at Grauman’s Chinese Theatre in Hollywood. The New York City premiere at Loew’s Capitol Theater on Aug. 17 was followed by a live performance by Judy Garland, and the film swept the nation on Aug. 25.
Celebrate this milestone locally at these sites:
Miniature Land of Oz
An interactive Lego model of Oz treats guests to whimsy at Legoland Discovery Center, one of our favorite local attractions. One of the highlights of a visit is a stroll through Lego Miniland that depicts Kansas City’s most iconic buildings created entirely from Lego bricks. Best of all, the entire
exhibit is interactive. Guests can control features, including racing cars at the Kansas Speedway, playing music at a Starlight concert, operating a construction crane and more! One beguiling part of the display is Miniland Oz, complete with Munchkinland, the Emerald City and the Witch’s castle. During your visit to Legoland, you can also enjoy interactive displays, two amusement park rides and the Lego 4D Cinema showing Lego short films (10-15 minutes in length) with effects of generated wind, mist, bubbles and simulated experiences kids love! LegolandDiscoveryCenter.com
An Oz-some Landmark
Take a road trip about two hours from KC to Wamego, Kansas, to find the Oz Museum (511 Lincoln). The museum features the largest collection of Oz memorabilia in the world. Admission is charged. Call 1.866.458.TOTO. Wamego.org/oz_museum.htm
Follow the Yellow Brick Road
Spend a day shopping at Legends Outlets where you can follow the Yellow Brick Road. In the center of the outdoor shopping center, children love traipsing along the storied path while parents shop. Make your
way to some other local stores to stock up on Oz souvenirs. Shop at the Best of Kansas City at Crown Center (CrownCenter. com), Made in KC at various locations (MadeInKC.co) and The Kansas Sampler/ Rally House (RallyHouse.com) to pick up great finds, incuding Dorothy costumes, t-shirts and Oz Monopoly games.
Watch the Classic Film at One of These Events:
• Aug. 21 at the historic 1927 Aztec Shawnee Theater. Tickets are $8. Doors open at 6:00, and the film starts at 7:00. Cocktails, beverages and snacks will be available for purchase, and goodies from the food trucks can be brought into the theater. This event benefits Shawnee Town 1929. AztecShawnee.com
• Aug. 24 on The Lawn at Legends Outlet. At 7:00, enjoy a free outdoor showing of the film. Bring a friend, pack some blankets and order carryout or snacks from one of the many eateries. Full bar service will be available to purchase inside Yard House; you can bring the beverages outside to enjoy on The Lawn. LegendsShopping.com
Every year when I was a kid, my parents let me choose where I wanted to eat dinner out for my birthday. Another birthday tradition they kept going was to have a small party for me with family and friends, including a cookout since I have a June birthday. Kids love to feel special, and it can be a challenge to find the time to come up with ways to make a birthday a knockout. Never fear! Below are four ideas for birthday traditions to start with your own kids. Pick and choose a few of them each year—and stick with the ones you and your birthday kid love!
Four Birthday Traditions
You’ll Want to Try
Rise and shine. I like to wake my kids up on their birthday not with “Get up! It’s time for school!” but with an extra long snuggle and the condensed version of the day they were born. Who doesn’t like to hear their birth story?! Adopted and foster children can be told how they were meant to be brought into the family and how special they are.
Birthday letter. Every year I type up a birthday letter for each of my children, telling them what great things they did and said and learned during the past year. I give the birthday child a copy, then save a copy in a binder and on my computer for myself, because we all know kids can’t keep track of stuff. The plan is to give each of my children a copy of all their letters when they move out, which means they’ll have somewhere between 18 and 30 letters to enjoy!
Birthday slideshow. With just a few clicks of your mouse, you can create a special slideshow using PowerPoint or a similar computer program. Just pop in photos, size them and add cute captions. You even can add some music if you like.
Visit www.kansascityzoo.org/birthdays to plan your party today!
After your child watches it about a zillion times, save it to a CD and pop it in a special place (safe deposit box, fireproof box, etc.) so your child will always have it.
Special treat. We like to hit the cupcake restaurant or grab huge, frosted cookies from a local baker and share with our friends and neighbors to spread the celebration around. A cheap—and just as special—route would be to make your child’s favorite dessert at home. Cookies, cake, banana splits, shakes or ice cream sundaes are always a good bet. Depending on which fruit is in season (or go frozen!), a decadent fruit smoothie made with frozen yogurt could be nice.
Kerrie McLoughlin is the proud and kooky mom of five. Check out their adventures at TheKerrieShow.com.
daydream a little dream
dreaming is a perfectly normal and healthy part of a child’s daily life. It’s those big dreams and aspirations that push kids to learn in school, play hard at recess and create pillow forts and magical fantasylands on the weekends. Unfortunately, there’s a time and a place for dreaming—and during the workday isn’t necessarily one of them.
Oftentimes, children haven’t yet developed a way to focus their time and thoughts. If the urge to dream about being the next Olympic swimmer comes to them during math class, they’re going to follow the dream and see where it leads. While day dreaming can be a wonderful experience for the dreamer, it is wildly frustrating for those on the other side who are trying to engage them. What’s to be done? Here are some tips.
Identify and address
Children may not even be aware that they’re daydreaming. From their perspective, they simply followed a thought. At home, when you see kids’ minds wandering, identify what is happening right then. Explain that taking their minds off the task at hand can be frustrating or even dangerous. For example, if you’re making cookies and start to daydream, you might not remember to set a timer and the cookies will burn. This is not to instill fear, but rather to show them that daydreaming can have real consequences. Some kids find it helpful to have a notebook nearby at all times. When a thought comes up, they can jot it down quickly to circle back to at a more appropriate time.
Establish distraction-free zones
Kids who daydream are sidetracked easily. Remove distractions like a radio or television on in the background when you are asking for their complete attention. Additionally, consider limiting screen time on iPads or game consoles. Games and shows are intentionally fast-paced, bright and loud. This will do nothing to help calm your child’s brain down. Try going unplugged before and after school by having free play for at least 30 minutes. In our household, we call this “getting out our wiggles” so we can focus harder later.
Take walking breaks
For kids with trouble focusing, movement is absolutely paramount to letting their minds move. Work in a few walks throughout the day or trips to the local park to play—and daydream! These activities require very little mental focus, so your children can feel free to let their brains run wild. You might find that afterward they are calmer and more engaged because they’ve let those rogue thoughts out to breathe.
Try meditation
Clearly, children can’t be expected to sit still for 60 minutes and “ohm” their way to a higher being. But a quick search for Mindful Meditations for Kids on YouTube can be a good start. You’ll find
hundreds of 5- to 10-minute meditations geared toward kids, encouraging thoughtful reflections and intentional breathing to help re-center their very active minds. At first, children might resist this, but keep at it. After a few times, you might be surprised at how responsive they become.
Lift your child up
Never shame a child for daydreaming. Dreams are what keep this world creative and fun and the future bright! Build in time throughout the day to foster turning those dreams into realities while maintaining an expectation for focused work too.
Most importantly, praise your children when you see them working hard to stay focused on their tasks. They need your approval and want to do well, so let them know when they’re doing great! Dreaming is for everyone—it just needs to be done at the right time and place.
Kim Antisdel is a freelance writer and interior design sales rep for KC. She lives in Liberty with her husband, stepdaughters and son.
DAYDREAMING AROUND TOWN
Ask your child what he’d love to be when he grows up and plan a special outing around the theme. A few ideas include:
Astronaut: Take him to the Gottlieb Planetarium at Union Station Kansas City (UnionStation.org), then spend a day playing at Science City, where you’ll explore the Science of the Sphere exhibit, and buy some astronaut ice cream in the gift shop for a treat.
Baseball Player: Spend a day at the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum (NLBM.com), where you’ll discover the history of American baseball from the Black perspective, beginning in 1863, and get to know many famous local baseball stars. Kids and adults alike will love measuring up against the life-size bronze statues of players in mid-game on the baseball diamond.
Toy Inventor: What kid doesn’t dream of inventing new toys? For many parents, back-to-school time prompts reminiscing about their own childhoods. Head to the National Museum of Toys and Miniatures (5235 Oak St., Kansas City, Mo., 816.235.8000), where visitors explore hundreds of toys and treasures.
Artist: Explore the free Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art (Nelson-Atkins.org) and encourage your child to take photos throughout the galleries, talk about his favorite pieces and then grab a bite on the Plaza afterward. As you walk the Plaza, take time to look at the art in the architecture. Or create your own masterpiece at a paint-your-own pottery shop like Paint, Glaze & Fire or Ceramic Café.
motherhood lost in
as mothers, we have significantly challenging periods of time where we may find ourselves a tad lost. In times past, I might have described it as a season, but after recent reflection on my own 22 years of motherhood, I have determined the term era is a bit more fitting. Seasons cycle themselves and often repeat. The word season sounds a bit weathered and mundane, whereas an era is a period of time with notable, memorable development in the growth of who we are as women. An era is significant, a time of becoming, a period of time marked by a new order of things. What if losing ourselves within the era of motherhood isn’t the problem but rather the purpose?
My oldest daughter is walking down the aisle this fall to wed her Wyoming boy, and as I’ve watched her transform from a toddler in her daddy’s cowboy boots to a young bride in a long white gown, I have noted her becoming. We tend to hang on to those things that give us identity and security because we feel safe. Yet growth comes from being squeezed, challenged, insecure and losing a bit of ourselves in the process. It may take a lifetime, but a woman is forever becoming, surrendering who she was to the possibility of who she is becoming. My daughter isn’t losing her grace, dreams, desires and individual beauty, but learning how to carry her grace, dreams and desires into a union with another soul—something new. I often look at motherhood in the same way.
Maybe our fear of what happens to ourselves during motherhood derives from a culture today that cannot even define what a mother is and devalues her surrender to the transformative nature of motherhood. The relinquishing of an older self that was once motivated by self-preservation is now dedicated to caring for what carries her legacy into the generations ahead. She could once fly solo without a care in the world, yet now she is forced to care for someone completely dependent on her. The era of motherhood is hard and beautiful, and it becomes the conditioning agent that refines her spirit and gives her strength for the next era of her life. Sometimes, we don’t recognize who she is in the moment, but the best pieces of her will withstand the squeeze of motherhood and produce
“Sometimes, when you pick up your child, you can feel the map of your own bones beneath your hands or smell the scent of your skin in the nape of his neck. This is the most extraordinary thing about motherhood— finding a piece of yourself separate and apart that all the same you could not live without.”
– Jodi Picoult
empathy, compassion, patience, unconditional love and grace. What has previously been about how we look and what others can see becomes more about what comes alive within our mind and soul.
I am sure some of you mothers have that stack of “mom dream jeans” in your closet, divided into pre-baby, post-baby and hope-they’ll-fit-one-day sections. I don’t know why letting a pair of jeans go is such a challenge, but a part of me mourns losing who I was before, and I tend not to want to let that go. I have tried to reclaim those jeans and stuff my mom chub back into those size six legs, but realistically, after having six babies, my body has changed … and it is no longer about size but comfort. Organically, our bodies change just as our minds change, yet why do we hang on to a pant size to define our body’s success or accomplishments instead of remembering the miracle our bodies have made? It is what we cannot see that is transforming us from within!
Meals that were once a party-of-two romantic reservation have now become a three-way conversation over tiny grilled cheese sandwiches, a sippy cup of milk and a ketchup-smeared face full of french fries. Conversation no longer focuses on the latest cocktail party or designer handbag but centers on kids menus and an early bedtime. On the way home, you stop by a big box store for infant Tylenol because you know the teething era is no joke and expect an all-nighter. Yet, through this all, have you realized your capacity for empathy has grown 10-fold?
Our identity inevitably changes whether or not we leave our careers behind to enter the mom era when we bring home a newborn bundle of dreamy joy for the first time. When we pivot from the workforce, where we constantly receive verbal validation and achieve measurable results, to the thankless days of motherhood where we are covered in baby poo and may go four days without a shower and see no hint of a thank you, we can’t help but feel displaced. Time will continue, and we must trust that the pieces of us meant to be reclaimed will return! We may not physically fit into our favorite pair of jeans, but our perspective on how beautifully a body changes to carry a miracle will give us greater self-worth than any brand of jeans could provide us.
Motherhood changes our desires, motivations and even our drive to get out of bed in the morning. Those all-nighters are exhausting and can leave us lost and feeling depleted. The spontaneity we once thrived on is replaced with intention and a slower pace, which causes us to reflect more intently on the effects of our daily decisions. That is good! It slowly changes our personality and temperament until one day, we wonder who we are. Yet, despite all the changes and depleted feelings, we are slowly becoming something different, something new.
So, how do we navigate this loss yet hold onto ourselves with hope and purpose? It is OK to put time back into yourself! Take when you can the quiet moments of things you enjoy: reading on a hot summer afternoon by the pool, staring at a latte by yourself at a local French coffee shop, baking that pie as your grandma did, keeping a journal and writing to yourself, getting lost in a bookstore on a rainy day, going to the farmers market and buying fresh honey, making that appointment at a local salon for a blowout , rearranging your closets, lighting candles in the evening for dinner, stopping by a local thrift store and adding to your collection of vintage spoons. Taking care of yourself and giving yourself time is priceless. Find grace for yourself during this mom era and embrace the changes that come into your life from having children. Let them refine and shape the woman you are continuing to become.
After 22 years of motherhood, I love who I am today, and it is because of my children who have been the grit in the refining process and the motivation for me to make better decisions. We may wander a bit and get lost in the era of motherhood, but the product of our love and self-sacrifice far outweighs the loss of who we think we were in the past. Give yourself grace, my friends. You now have new pieces of yourself you can never live without. It is worth it all.
Elizabeth Hammond is a sourdough-baking homeschooling mom of six and a “want-to-be” homesteader living in a tiny cottage in northern Overland Park.
MOM, MAKE YOURSELF A
priority
mom gives and gives … and gives some more. It’s easy to look to the needs of absolutely everyone else. Mothers support their entire families, but that can take a toll on their mental, physical and emotional health, leaving them feeling burnt out, resentful and frustrated. Mom, it’s time to make yourself a priority.
We hear the words self-care often, but how do we make time for it in our busy mom era? We have to be intentional with our time. We must use our time and energy for the things that drive us, bring us joy and rejuvenate us while also eliminating or delegating things that exhaust, stress or overload us.
According to “The 7 Pillars of Self-Care (And How to Use Them)” by The Blissful Mind, the pillars are mental, emotional, physical, environmental, spiritual, recreational and social. Do your best to incorporate activities that will benefit all seven pillars of self-care into your routine. The more we fill ourselves up, the more we have to give to our children and the better parents we will be.
PLAN TIME FOR YOU
Between getting the kids ready for school, working a full day, extracurricular activities, dinner, baths and bedtime, there’s not a lot of room in the calendar for Mom. That is why it’s important to plan your day ahead of time so you can carve out pockets of time for you to take care of yourself. I find I’m more successful at this when I write it on the family calendar or to-do list. Perhaps you wake up 30 minutes earlier than your family so you have time for a cup of coffee before the day’s chaos begins. Or maybe you use your hour lunch break to take a walk and listen to your favorite podcast. Or you carve out time weekly to take a long bath and read a book. Making time for other people is also helpful and replenishes your social battery. If you set a date to go to book club every month with a friend or go running with your neighbor, you are much less likely to
back out because someone else is involved. No matter what helps you relax, be sure to work it into your calendar.
FIND A SUPPORT GROUP
Find a group of people who understand you and the struggles of being a mom. Having a group of friends that can support you and relate to you is so beneficial for your social well-being. Once you’ve found your group, you will find you can lean on each other for advice and can even tag-team things like carpooling to and from school or extracurricular activities. You can find your people through church, work, online mom groups, book clubs, at the gym or maybe even in your neighborhood.
TREAT YOURSELF
Most mothers do their best to make sure their children have everything they need and most of what they want, but their own wants and needs tend to get lost in the shuffle. Try to find small ways you can treat yourself. These small glimmers of joy will help your mental health. I like to get a brew from my favorite local coffee shop a few times a week. It brightens my day and breaks up the monotony of the mornings a bit. Some other ideas are to enjoy a little retail therapy, a massage, a pedicure, getting your hair done or picking out a new perfume.
TAKE A DAY OFF
I believe everyone deserves a day off. Days off are rare for mothers. Even if they take the day off work, they often have responsibilities at home to take care of. A few times a year, I take a day off work with the sole purpose of staying home and doing absolutely nothing. I like to spend the day reading, taking a bath, napping and catching up on Netflix. I even order in food so I don’t have to leave the house. This day off is just what I need to recharge my batteries and feel rejuvenated.
EXERCISE
Your physical health is critical. By keeping an exercise routine, you’ll feel fit, boost your mood and give yourself more energy to take
on the rest of your day. Work time into your schedule for moving your body in whatever way you enjoy. Take a nature walk, listen to music while you hit the gym or join a volleyball team that keeps you active and gives you time to be social with friends.
DO WHAT YOU LOVE
Think back to before you were a mom. What did you look forward to most? Was it reading, taking pilates classes, painting or running? Everyone needs to find a fun or creative outlet. It’s easy to get lost in motherhood and forget about previous hobbies, but make time to do these things again. Not only does it make us moms happier and more patient, but it also shows our children it’s important for parents to have fun and enjoy their own interests as well.
JUST SAY NO
One way to help keep balance in your life is to create boundaries and begin saying no. It’s OK to tell your children they can only do one sport per season or let a friend know your schedule is too packed to make it to a party. You don’t have to sign up to volunteer for every party at your children’s school. You can choose just one—or maybe that stresses you out and you decide to opt out entirely this year! Find the balance of making time for the things you enjoy and releasing the things in your life that you don’t need. You will begin to find a sense of calm and extra time to make yourself a priority.
BE KIND TO YOURSELF
Part of making yourself a priority is giving yourself grace and being kind to yourself. Many mothers feel “mom guilt” when they take time to themselves. If I go to dinner with friends, I feel guilty for not being home with my kids and leaving the evening chores to my husband. But I try to give myself grace and remind myself I need time to recharge, so my children get the very best version of me.
Regan Lyons is a girl mom and freelance writer. She lives with her husband, Cale, and daughters, Atley, 10, and Ensley, 4, in St. Joseph.
kids helping kids
Why it is good for peers to be mentors to each other
we all know that an older brother or sister will help a new baby brother or sister learn to hold a bottle, crawl, laugh, babble and play. This is the earliest form of mentorship for children. Young children learn by watching … watching their older sister brush her hair or big brother use the potty.
When my son was around 2 years old and embarrassed to go to the big boy bathroom, my daughter, who is three years older, said, “Mommy, why don’t we just put his potty chair out on the back patio? Then he won’t feel so watched.” Now, be assured we had a tall privacy fence, and he was not in the face of any neighbors. But guess what? It worked! My daughter did a cartwheel when he sat down on the little potty chair, and from then on, he knew where he was supposed to do his business. Big sis to the rescue!
Some mentoring happens naturally, other opportunities take more intention— but the results are enriching for all the kids involved. For instance, one local school, St. Michael’s the Archangel Catholic High School, has the ultimate program to allow their students to mentor one another. They do not have paraprofessionals in their school, so when they opened in 2017 as a legacy school, they began their own SMILE program, which originally began at Archbishop O’Hara High School in the mid-2000s. SMILE stands for St. Michael Inclusive Learning Enhancement. The goal is to make sure all students of all levels are reached and feel at home.
SMA mentors are junior- and seniorlevel students chosen by faculty members based on their outstanding leadership qualities, strong academic tracks and dedication to the program. These mentors
pair up with each special needs student to attend class with them and work hand-inhand with their coursework.
Mary Kroening, principal at St. Michael’s, praises the peer mentoring program. “We have this peer mentoring program here due to the absence of paraprofessionals for special needs students. Not many Catholic schools have programs that allow special needs kids to attend their high school,” she notes. “We carried that tradition to St. Michael’s, and it’s one of our best programs we have in the city. We have had other schools across the country come to emulate what we do. It is great to see the interaction and friendships developed between students that belong here.”
She explains that students are quite proud to work with this program, and there are about 50 involved each year. They
get elective credits for their part. “Our special ed teachers go through and select this distinguished group of students. The program is about building relationships,” Kroening says. “Student-to-student interaction can help steer a student in a different direction if they happen to be feeling antsy or having trouble taking notes. They will do things like read a test aloud to them, help them with their math skills, quiz them and help with projects. They are there to help the teacher, so they can stay on task.”
A foundation in the KC area called FIRE helps support SMILE with grants so St. Michael’s can have the program and continue to include everybody at their school. It was founded in 1996 by a group of parents who wanted their children with special needs to attend their parish schools with their siblings and friends.
St. Michael’s also has a coffee shop at school, which helps students learn life
skills. They offer hot and cold drinks, lattes and smoothies and iced teas. “They run that in the morning and at lunch. The inclusive learning educator will help students master the skills to run a coffee shop,” Kroening says. “Developing that friendship does more than anything to include students. Our tagline is ‘where you belong.’ We believe every student is made in the indigenous image of God. Our students love it, and they develop friendships outside of school, attending football and basketball games with the students they mentor, and that is what it is about. We guide our students to have lifelong friendships.”
Boy Scouts of America also implements a mentoring program between members, giving young people the opportunity to take on leadership roles with their peers on activities and events. This strengthens the bond between friends and builds confidence and character.
These examples of the many benefits of peer mentoring are inspiring. On your own block, you can help kids create a peer group. Gather kids from your neighborhood and plan events, such as a bike ride or swimming party. Elect a leader and helpers and watch as they mentor each other. Whether coloring together, mastering ABCs, learning to play the piano or studying calculus, toddlers to teenagers can benefit from mentoring relationships and develop mentoring opportunities.
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.
Embrace this kid favorite with clean protein and omega-3’s for a snack, appetizer or finger food dinner entrée.
Serves: 8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Ingredients
1 can Safe Catch Elite Wild Tuna
2 large eggs
1/4 c. panko bread crumbs
1 box organic mac and cheese (Annie’s recommended)
1-1/2 c. shredded cheddar cheese
Cooking spray
Tools You’ll Need
Medium pot
Medium mixing bowl
24-count mini muffin tray
Measuring spoons and cups
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees.
2. Lightly spray a 24-count mini muffin tin with cooking spray.
3. Prepare organic mac and cheese per box instructions, then add to medium mixing bowl.
4. Open a can of Safe Catch Elite Wild Tuna (do not drain), flake with a fork in can until all liquid is absorbed by tuna and add to medium mixing bowl with two eggs.
5. Add panko and two-thirds of cheddar cheese to mixing bowl, then mix with a fork until all ingredients are combined.
6. Use tablespoons to place tuna mac and cheese mixture into the 24 muffin tin cups, then top each with remaining cheddar cheese.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes, depending on oven temperature; rotate muffin tin tray about halfway through baking.
8. Remove tuna mac and cheese bites from oven and let cool until a table knife easily removes each bite.
Serving Suggestion
Share with family and friends while warm, as these tuna mac and cheese bites are sure to become a family favorite for appetizers, game day or even with a fresh green salad. Helpful tip: Freeze mac and cheese bites, so you have an easy kiddo snack ready in seconds. Simply microwave frozen bites for about 35 seconds, and little faces will be smiling in less than a minute.
Recipe courtesy of SafeCatch.com
THE 10 BEST Back-to-School Tips Ever!
Going from summer fun, vacations and late nights to homework, packed lunches and strict bedtimes can be a tough transition for both parents and kids. With these parent-approved back-to-school tips and tricks, though, heading back to school is sure to run smoothly this year!
1. Start Preparing Early
The sooner you start, the easier it will be. Make a list of everything you need to do before school begins. The list can include everything from meal prepping and school supply shopping to hair cut appointments and sports physicals. The list will help you stay on track and, hopefully, keep you from forgetting something and having to make a last-minute trip to pick it up.
2. Set Up a Command Center
A command center will help you stay organized all year round. This designated area will be where all school items go. Large cubbies work great to keep each child’s backpacks, lunch boxes, jackets and shoes together. This is also the ideal place to post your weekly calendar, so the entire family knows what is going on each day of the week. It would also be ideal to have a charging station for the kids’ school iPads and laptops, so they are ready to go for the next day.
3. Line Out the Routine
Make a to-do list for each child that spells out the routine and responsibilities for the day. The list can include every task kids must complete before school, after school and before bedtime. Include tasks such as brushing teeth and combing hair, as well as after-school chores or putting away book bags. Spelling out their responsibilities for them will help kids get into their new routine and help you avoid asking them over and over whether they’ve brushed their teeth.
4. Create a Dedicated Homework Space
Sometimes getting your kids to do their homework can become its own chore, but a designated homework space can help with that. Stock pencils, crayons, glue, tape and all the necessary supplies for homework at a desk or wherever they will be doing homework each day. Every day when it’s time for homework, the kids will be set up for success and won’t be wandering the house asking you where they put their scissors!
5. Keep a Place for Important Paperwork
In your command center, create a filing system for important paperwork. This can be as simple as a file for each child or one tray in which to place all incoming paperwork and mail. This strategy ensures your kids know exactly where those important papers from their teachers need to go when they clean out their backpacks each afternoon. Gone will be the days of searching for a field trip permission slip the night before a trip to the zoo or trying to hunt down those overdue library books.
6. Let the Kids Pack Their Lunches
Organizing the pantry and refrigerator will make packing lunches and snacks a breeze! Create bins in the pantry for items like chips, granola bars and drinks. In the refrigerator separate lunch foods like fruit, string cheese and applesauce packets into a bin. Then you can easily pack the lunches, or the kids can pick and choose what they pack in their lunches each day. For the first few days, you’ll want to check their lunch boxes to make sure they’re making good choices.
This also works great for after-school snacks. You can have a bin of healthy snacks the kids can always have, like fruits and veggies, and a bin for special request items they need to ask you for first.
7. Plan Outfits for the Week
There’s nothing worse than rushing around in the morning trying to get your kids dressed and their saying they “have nothing to wear.” Make an evening habit of laying out their outfits for the next day, so when they wake up they can get dressed without all the stress. If you really like to plan ahead, set up compartments in their closet for each day of the week. On Sunday, set out the entire week’s outfits.
8. Back to Bedtime
Have your kids become night owls this summer? Don’t worry! Slowly moving their bedtime up a half-hour per week until they are back to their school night bedtime will be a painless way to ease the kids back into their normal sleeping routine. When you bump up their bedtime, bump up their wake-up time, too. Give the kids a week before school starts to practice getting up on time, getting ready and eating breakfast before they would need to leave for school. Once the first day arrives, they will be up and at ’em bright and early!
9. Skip the Store
Dreading those long, detailed school supply lists and mobs of moms with their kids trying to pick out the perfect binder in the back-to-school aisle? Skip it! Thanks to Target’s School List Assist and Amazon’s School List program, school supply shopping has never been easier. Simply find your child’s school and class supply list online, match the list to the items you would like to purchase, add the items to your cart, check out and wait for them to arrive on your doorstep!
Speaking of skipping school supply shopping—one of our family’s best stress reducers is grocery pickup. Most grocery stores offer online grocery ordering and free pickup or delivery. You simply add items to your cart, pay online and pick them up at a designated time. My favorite feature is how it saves your favorite items to make them easy to add to your cart on your next visit. You can even add last minute items if you forget an ingredient for your recipe or realize you’re supposed to bring treats for the class party in the morning.
10. Make It Fun!
Last but not least, make it fun and special for your kids. Starting a new school year is exciting. Take them out to breakfast before their first day, take their photos in their firstday-of-school outfits and maybe grab some ice cream after school to hear all about their day. The more excited they are to go to school, the easier the year will be for everyone!
Regan Lyons is a freelance writer who lives in St. Joseph, with her husband and two daughters, Atley, 10, and Ensley, 4.
&
Q A
BY PEGGY GISLER AND MARGE EBERTS
WHAT ARE SCHOOLS LIKE TODAY?
PARENTS: As a generalization, you can expect your children’s schools from preschool through high school to be more academic than the ones you attended. On your own state’s education website, you can usually see what children are expected to learn in public schools at each level, from kindergarten through high school.
Most states have adopted the Common Core Standards for English language arts and mathematics, so there is some uniformity across the nation. These standards have learning goals and end-ofyear expectations; however, teachers can determine how these goals will be met. What follows is a look at what is happening across the nation, so you can compare it to what is occurring in your children’s schools.
The Biggest Change
More than 2,000 schools have moved from having the traditional five-day week to a four-day week with a longer schedule each day. While parents, students and teachers seem to like it, there is little saving of funds, and students’ academic progress is slower over time than those having a five-day week.
A Look at Preschool Programs
Sadly, believe it or not, research done by the National Institute for Early Education Research shows that most preschool programs are not “highquality.” So, there is now a movement to develop state standards for all preschool programs.
Basically, there are two types of preschool programs: those that last about 3-1/2 hours and those that are all day and include rest time and some meals. The idea behind both programs is for the children to learn “pre-skills” to lay the groundwork for elementary school. This means learning school routines.
You will find preschool classrooms feature learning stations with art, music, science, math and sand and water activities. There will also be group activities, especially ones featuring the teacher reading stories to the children.
How much academics children pick up depends greatly on the preschool. Many will expect children to learn to count to 10, read their own names and recognize some letters of the alphabet, especially those in their first names.
Kindergarten Is Academic Nowadays
Yesterday’s milk-and-cookies kindergartens no longer exist for the most part. Most kindergartens now look like what first grade once was. One of the big changes is the move away from a half-day of school to a full day. This all happened back in 2001 with the No Child Left Behind legislation that stressed testing starting in third grade and learning standards. Recess once was 45 minutes at this level—now it’s often just 15.
Many teachers routinely have kindergarteners start their day with reading and math worksheets. By the end of the year, the children are often expected to be able to count to 100, write numbers from 0 to 20, read and write simple words, know all their letters and sounds and read simple books.
All this is happening with a strong degree of conflict among educators. The academic kindergarten proponents cite some studies that show that children in academic kindergartens do no worse than those in playbased ones in self-control, focus and behavior. On the other side, the
play-based advocates stress the years of studies that say the play-based approach is the best strategy for young learners to grow in all developmental areas. In addition, the play-based advocates have a valid argument that not all kindergarteners are ready developmentally to handle an academic approach.
Today’s Elementary Schools
Tremendous diversity exists in what is being taught and how in elementary schools. Obviously, the computer is part of so much instruction. Teachers who are technologically savvy are able to use it more imaginatively to individualize instruction to meet individual students’ needs and abilities. Most classrooms will have a mix of computer-based and teacher-based instruction.
Typically, computers are introduced slowly as early as first grade. The first task is for students to learn how to type and use them. Then reading and
math lessons may be individualized for computer sessions. Computers are usually only used at school.
Another current trend is the elimination of recess or shortening of recess time for academics. Some schools, however, are bucking this trend as they realize the benefits of physical exercise during the school day. A very interesting trend found in some elementary schools is that no homework is being assigned.
Middle School Trends
You will find that middle schools are most like the ones you attended. Students will move from class to class for different subjects. The major difference is that close to 80% of the students’ work will be done on the computer, including most subject tests and homework.
One change is that elements of algebra like ratio and proportion will be introduced in sixth grade math. Also, some students will take Algebra 1 in eighth grade, letting them take more advanced math classes in high school.
High Schools Have More Advanced Offerings
Schools are offering more AP and challenging courses. Besides doing much of their work on computers, students and parents can now access the students’ grades and assignments online. On an unfortunate note, cheating is rampant in high school, according to most studies. This includes cheating on tests, copying homework, plagiarism and the inappropriate use of AI chatbots.
Beyond Academics
At almost every level of schooling, time is now being devoted to programs that counter bullying and violence and teach conflict resolution and tolerance for different lifestyle choices.
Reasons to Make Family Dinner a Priority HOW TO MAKE IT HAPPEN
Families have changed a lot in the last 50 years. More women have entered the workforce, giving families the benefit of two incomes. Single-parent families are also more common, and kids are involved in more after-school activities than previous generations. All of this has led to changes in family dynamics and ultimately leaves us with busier lives and fuller schedules. While there are benefits to our current lifestyle, we cannot deny the fact that a designated family dinnertime has suffered. Before you brush family dinner aside as a thing of the past, consider the benefits of making it a priority.
Picky eaters
When families eat dinner at home, they are more likely to be exposed to a well-rounded diet and healthy foods like fruits and vegetables. The foods we eat are usually made from fresh ingredients as well. Families who eat on the go often turn to fast food or quick meals because of convenience. These options are typically higher in fat and calories and are loaded with sodium. Picky eaters who are exposed to more fruits and vegetables at home are more likely to try new foods over time.
Portion control
Families who eat at home control the portion size served. This helps teach kids healthy eating habits. “Over the past few years, portions have grown significantly in restaurants, as has the frequency of Americans’ eating out. Bigger portions can mean that you’re getting more food than your body can stomach to maintain a healthy weight,” according to Heart.org. Eating proper portions along with a variety of healthy foods will teach kids how to maintain a healthy lifestyle as they become adults.
Opens communication
Dinnertime is a great opportunity to catch up with what is going on with each family member. Try going around the table and having each person state the high and low of the day. This gives all members of the family a time to share the best and worst of their day and opens further discussion. Giving the family a designated time to talk helps connect members to each other and opens the lines of communication between them.
Saves money
Americans spend an average of $3,639 eating out each year, roughly $300 each month. “And those fast-food meals and restaurant tabs continue to add up,” RamseySolutions.com says. “In fact, Americans spent 20% more eating out in 2022 than they did in 2021.” These numbers show that families can save a lot of money by eating at home.
Long-term positive benefits for kids
According to TheFamilyDinnerProject.org, kids who share dinners with their family several times a week are more likely to have higher self-esteem, have a lower risk of depression and are less likely to develop eating disorders. Kids are also more likely to have better grades and graduate high school.
Practical ways to make family dinner a priority
• Schedule a consistent time for dinner.
• Plan meals ahead to save prep time.
• Serve simple meals like leftovers or cold sandwiches on busy weeknights.
• Don’t overschedule your family.
GUIDE
• Unplug. Keep family dinner free from electronics.
• Make a commitment to prioritize family dinner.
Making time for family dinner can be difficult, but these great benefits make it worth the effort. If your family schedule is complicated, start with one family dinner per week and slowly increase the frequency. It will not take long to see the benefits accruing for every family member involved.
10 WAYS TO SIMPLIFY FAMILY DINNER
Many parents find themselves so busy with work, school, extracurricular activities and errands that cooking weeknight meals seems impossible. In reality, eating at home can be faster, easier and more affordable—even on those busy school nights. Try these tips for quick and easy meal planning.
• Make two. If you are making one casserole, why not make two? One can be eaten now, and the other can be frozen and saved for dinner another night.
• Stock the freezer. Fill your freezer with both premade and homemade items to have on hand for a busy week.
• Use the slow cooker. Toss some things together in the morning and come home to a hot meal after a long day.
• Buy premade ingredients. Precut vegetables, cooked rotisserie chicken and ready-to-grill marinated meat are perfect for the busy family.
• Institute leftover night. Designate one night a week to eat whatever is in the fridge and save time and money in the process.
• Stock the pantry. Have meals on hand you can turn to in a bind, such as spaghetti, bean burritos or quesadillas.
• Do double duty. Use extra ingredients to make two meals. For example, leftover taco meat can become enchiladas, nachos or chili. Grilled chicken breast can be used for a salad, soup or a casserole.
• Celebrate theme nights. Monday have pasta, Tuesday is for tacos, and Wednesday mix up some stir fry … and to make things even easier, repeat every week to streamline your grocery list, steady your grocery budget and simplify meal planning.
• Love eating out? Add a night out to your meal plan once in a while to treat yourself and your family.
• Make it fun. Get the kids involved in meal planning and food prep and, most importantly, enjoy mealtime together.
Sarah Lyons is a mom of six children, including 9-year-old triplets. She lives in Olathe with her family.
Source: “How Much to Budget Each Month for Eating Out” by Ramsey, RamseySolutions.com
Sweet Dreams
HELPING YOUR KIDS GET A GOOD NIGHT’S SLEEP
At the end of a long day, putting the kids to bed can seem like a daunting task. Bedtime may drag on as shiny, tantalizing distractions capture your children’s attention while you give countless reminders to shower, brush teeth and use the restroom. Finally, you say goodnight and close your children’s bedroom door. You breathe a sigh of relief thinking you can relax— or be productive—for the rest of the evening, only to be interrupted by a child popping out of her room saying, “I can’t sleep!”
Take heart! We can mitigate this!
Plenty of Sleep Is Crucial for Your Children’s Well-Being
Pushing boundaries is in a child’s job description, and bedtime is an area that will be tested. Holding the line with a regular bedtime is good for physical growth, brain development, mood regulation and a healthy immune system. Experts recommend that school-age children get nine to 12 hours of sleep each night. It might take some effort, but moving bedtime one hour earlier can make a drastic difference for your child. You may be surprised by how greatly sleep can improve temperament, performance at school, mental health and decision-making.
Work with Natural Body Rhythms
It’s normal to want to stay up later in the summer, but start rolling back bedtime several weeks before school begins. Since hormones and circadian rhythm are involved, rewind bedtime just 15 minutes at a time for three to seven days and then repeat the process until you reach the desired bedtime. Try to keep bedtime consistent. Late Friday and Saturday nights throw off school nights.
To optimize circadian rhythm, get some morning sun and spend time in nature during the day. But come nighttime, have your child avoid exercise and start calming the body an hour or two before sleeping.
Another helpful tack is limiting sugar and caffeine intake, especially before bed. As kids get older, their activities tend to go later at night. Keep in mind that tossing your child a Gatorade after practice or going out for ice cream to celebrate a great game can mess with his sleep.
Create a Sleep Oasis
A comfortable bed that isn’t too firm or too soft can make a world of difference. A good mattress promotes healthy spinal alignment, prevents pain and reduces tossing and turning. If you think your child needs a change, my husband and I would be happy to show you the selection at our mattress store and offer a KC Parent discount.
Investing in blackout shades, a white noise machine or fan and maybe even a sleep mask or ear plugs can all help with creating a cool, dark and quiet sleep environment.
We can’t force sleep to come, but we can put ourselves in the right disposition to receive sleep as the gift that it is. We suggest that our kids find a comfortable position and lie still with their eyes closed, as well as consider some deep breaths or counting 100 breaths.
Trade Screens for Books
In the evening, blue light from screens tricks our brains into thinking it’s daytime. This limits production of melatonin, the hormone needed for sleep. Alternatively, reading allows your brain to work while your body begins to rest. Plus, you’re setting your children up for success when they fall in love with reading. If your child is too young to read, snuggle in and read books to him.
Close family relationships can reduce anxiety and improve behavior, but full schedules often crowd out time for that daily connection. Throughout my parenthood, I have found that my favorite way to “waste time” with my kids is reading. Consider a
whole family read-aloud because your kids are never too old for it. Some of our favorite read-alouds have been Brambly Hedge that is beautifully illustrated by Jill Barklem, A Bear Called Paddington by Michael Bond and the graphic novel version of The Hobbit by J. R. R. Tolkien.
We can’t force sleep to come, but we can put ourselves in the right disposition to receive sleep as the gift that it is.
Peace of Mind Supports Sleep
Take time to talk through and process the day’s events to help ease worries. If you think it could help your child open up, offer a shared journal to your child, one you each write in and pass back and forth. Also harness the power of Vitamin G: gratitude. Sometimes, overtired kids can spiral into a negative mindset. Counter this by having a thankfulness competition. Relax with your children and take turns sharing one thing for which you are grateful. See who can come up with the most.
A good morning begins the night before. Have your children organize their backpacks and lay out tomorrow’s outfits before bed. This helps kids go to sleep with a sense of accomplishment and the assurance that they are prepared well for the next day.
Bedtime can be a great time for connection, so try to make it enjoyable. Give your children a hug before bed and bless them with a little prayer or affirmation. They will drift off feeling secure because of the warmth you have shown them.
Adrienne Doring lives in Prairie Village with her husband, Greg. They have five children, ages 14 and younger. They own Factory Direct Mattress of Overland Park, which can be found online at FDMattressOverlandPark.com.
GREAT BOOKS FOR BEDTIME
Ages 3-5
Goodnight Songs by Margaret Wise Brown
You Nest Here with Me by Jane Yolen
Good Night, Little Bear by Patsy Scarry
Sleep Like a Tiger by Mary Logue
If Your Monster Won’t Go to Bed by Denise Vega
The Day the Crayons Came Home by Drew Daywalt
Don’t Blink by Amy Krouse Rosenthal
Ages 6-8
In a Blue Room by Jim Averbeck
King Midas and the Golden Touch by Charlotte Craft
Winnie the Pooh by A.A. Milne
Ranger’s Apprentice Series by John Flanagan
Holes by Louis Sachar
The Wrinkle in Time Quartet by Madeleine L’Engle
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl
Ages 9-12
Alice in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll
The Iron Man by Ted Hughes
Artemis Fowl by Eoin Colfer
The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick
Goodnight Mr. Tom by Michelle Magorian
The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis
The Moomins and the Great Flood by Tove Jansson
Back-to-School TRADITIONS
It’s almost that time once again. Another end to another summer as we head into the 2024-2025 school year. Kendra Adachi, host of The Lazy Genius Podcast, often talks about closing ceremonies, and I think this is the perfect time to add in a closing ceremony that can become a family tradition that everyone looks forward to and creates a family memory. This can be something over the top or something super simple.
Looking back on my own childhood, a back-to-school tradition that we had was going school shopping for some new
clothes and shoes for the upcoming school year. My brother and I were each given a budget—a great learning exercise for us to practice deciding what we really wanted versus what we actually needed. We didn’t shop often, so this was an exciting outing for us. This tradition lives on a little bit with my kids’ getting new back-to-school shoes and maybe a new shirt for school picture day. Maybe it will become more of a thing as they get older and care more about their clothing choices. I know my soon-tobe freshman daughter would be all in on a shopping day!
As the mom in my own family now, I’ve initiated the simple tradition of going out for ice cream both to celebrate the start of the school year and to mark the end of school and the start of summer vacation. We don’t go out for ice cream or froyo often, so that alone makes the tradition more special. The novelty of whatever you choose for your observance makes it even more exciting.
Of course, I am a parent of the Pinterest era, so I have the chalkboard sign for each of my kids to pose with for first- and last-day-of-school photos. We also have graduation year t-shirts that they get wear for a photo each year as well. They may roll their eyes now, but I see how remarkably their little kindergarten bodies, once swallowed up by this size large t-shirt, grow in the blink of an eye to a point that the shirt actually starts to fit them. It’s been a cute way to show the passage of time. I also find it important to show my kids the photos each year because, regardless of how excited they are to participate in Mom’s shenanigans, they do like seeing how little they were and how much they have changed over the years.
Other back-to-school traditions could include eating a certain type of food, going shopping, taking a family outing, reading a specific book, doing an interview or making a time capsule each year, or even making a bucket list or setting some goals for the upcoming school year.
Perhaps your family goes out to eat at a restaurant special to you, or you enjoy trying a new restaurant each year. Maybe you only make a special meal or dessert once a year that everyone looks forward to like the Lyons and Nauman families do. Sarah Lyons, mother of six, says, “I make cinnamon roll waffles on the first and last day of summer.” Joellyn Nauman, mother of four, says, “We make a fun breakfast of pancakes with ice cream and M&Ms. The kids talk about it every year, so I won’t forget! It’s so fun to make family traditions that they will remember.” Ingrid Brown, mother of two, has a great idea
“Traditions don’t have to be expensive or elaborate but give us something fun to look forward to as seasons change.”
for including extended family and friends in the fun: “We do a back-to-school bonfire the night before school starts. S’mores for the win!”
If food or shopping isn’t your jam, maybe having one final family outing on the last weekend of summer would be fun. Head to a miniature golf course like Howl in One Mini Golf, the Nelson-Atkins Art Course or Black Bob Park to have some fun together. If you’re looking for more of a thrill, head to Worlds of Fun and Oceans of Fun to send the summer off right.
Books have always been a big part of my parenting journey, and I like to read seasonally to my kids. Sadly, mine insist on growing up, but I’m holding strong to
keep reading to my youngest as he heads into fourth grade this year. Some backto-school books I have enjoyed reading to them over the years include The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn, A Case of Bad Stripes by David Shannon, You Are Special by Max Lucado, We Don’t Eat Our Classmates by Ryan T. Higgins, Stand Tall, Molly Lou Lemon by Patty Lovell and Princesses Don’t Wear Glasses by Tia Cherie Dammen. If you’re looking for some non-picture book read-alouds about school, we’ve enjoyed Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing by Judy Blume and the Wayside School series by Louis Sachar.
Family traditions help children feel connected to your family and give them
Back-to School Books Highly Recommended
The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn
A Case of Bad Stripes by David Shannon
You Are Special by Max Lucado
We Don’t Eat Our Classmates by Ryan T. Higgins,
Stand Tall, Molly Lou Lemon by Patty Lovell
Princesses Don’t Wear Glasses by Tia Cherie Dammen.
Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing by Judy Blume
Wayside School series by Louis Sachar
a sense of belonging. Traditions don’t have to be expensive or elaborate but give us something fun to look forward to as seasons change. Traditions can also change, so if you try one that doesn’t fit your family, don’t feel like you’re stuck doing it just because you want a tradition. Perhaps your family’s tradition is to try a new tradition each fall as the kids head back to school until something sticks. The memories of the failed “traditions” will be fun to look back on as a family as well. The main focus is to connect with your family as you head into a new season.
Stephanie Loux is the mother of Layla, 13, Mason, 11, and Slade, 8.
My first day of school! Aug. 15 2024
BACK-TO-SCHOOL PRODUCT REVIEWS
By Elena Epstein, Director of the National Parenting Product Awards
COLOR SHEEN METALLIC COLORED GEL PENS, SET OF 12
Make note taking or journaling a radiant and colorful affair. These metallic ink pens can write on both white and black paper and glide along the page. Made from acidfree ink. $12.95, ages 6+, Ooly.com
MEDITATE
Build your child’s mental fitness through meditation stories and activities played through a multisensory, plush toy. Equipped with a childfriendly, Bluetooth speaker that, when connected to the audio library, delivers a magical experience of meditation, mindfulness and calm. $89.99, ages 4+, Miindfully.com
YOU ARE A SOCIAL DETECTIVE!: CURRICULUM GUIDE AND STORYBOOK
Introduce social and emotional learning through this storybook and its accompanying easyto-use K-5 curriculum. Provides 10 fun, structured lesson plans. $59.99, ages 5-10, SocialThinking.com
DETER ’N’ DETANGLE LEAVE-IN
Made with natural detangling herbs such as slippery elm, flaxseed, marshmallow root and native Australian tea tree oil, this conditioner will leave your kids’ hair feeling soft and manageable. $28 AUD, ages 3+, Eekoloks.com
NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC EPIC CIRCUITS KIT –120 PROJECTS
Young explorers can unlock the mysteries of electricity through more than 120 experiments and activities. Create songs with keyboard mode, fly a copter, build a sound system and more. Includes easy-to-follow instructions and vibrant illustrations. $69.99, ages 8+, Amazon.com
NUMBERBLOCKS PLAYING CARDS
With a numbery twist on popular card games like Go Fish, Old Maid and more, these cards offer children lots of fun playing and learning with their favorite characters. These cards offer a playful and engaging way to practice early math skills. $9.99, ages 3+ years, Amazon.com
SMARTCHECK FROM CHILDREN’S TYLENOL
An easy-to-use otoscope device that attaches to most smartphones and allows caregivers to remotely capture and share recordings of their child’s eardrum(s) with a health care professional to check for a potential ear infection remotely. $79.99, ages 12 months+, Tylenol.com
GIIKER TIC-TAC-TOE BOLT
A compact mini game console that offers three gameplay options: Infinite Tic-Tac-Toe, Memory Flash, Cover-Up Tic-Tac-Toe. Test your thinking skills against an AI opponent or engage in friendly matches with a friend. $39.99, ages 4+, Giiker.com
NAPPA AWARDS HAS BEEN CELEBRATING THE BEST IN FAMILY PRODUCTS FOR 34 YEARS. FOR MORE PRODUCT REVIEWS, VISIT
CHATTERTIME CONVERSATION CARDS
Create moments of connection through answering playful conversation prompts. With six question categories, the cards let you explore all kinds of memories, favorites, dreams for the future and more. $22.99, ages 4+, PennyCake.com
DREAMLAND: RELAX & IMAGINE
Offers nine soothing and enchanting songs to help kids unwind, plus a special guided relaxation exercise. Perfect for bedtime or quiet moments, this album makes it easy for kids and adults alike to breathe deeply, smile, imagine and dream. $15, JennCleary.com
TRICKY TOPIC BOOKS
Supports children and parents alike as they navigate common challenges and transitions, like starting preschool or moving away from screens. Each of the five books provides an easyto-follow approach with real situations and real emotions. Each book also features a QR code that provides additional expert-backed, on-topic resources. $15/book, ages 1-5 years, LovEvery.com
SOUNDS OF RAIN SENSORY TUBES
Discover the power of rain pattern sounds to help children calm their energy with this captivating set. $21.99, ages 4+, Hand2Mind.com
I AM DIFFERENT, I AM GREAT
Mei Mei loves school, but sometimes she feels a bit out of place. She speaks with an accent that makes her stand out from everyone else. When she tells Mommy her worries, Mei Mei finds that she’s more than just her voice. $14.99, ages 2-8 years, Amazon.com
TROOMI SAFE SMARTPHONES FOR KIDS
Provide kids with guardrails for the digital world. Features flexible safety controls that allow parents to customize their children’s phones based on individual needs. Give them everything they need, like apps for school, and nothing they don’t, like social media. $199.95, ages 6-16, Troomi.com
EARTH RANGERS APP
Learn about wildlife and conservation with this app. Kids can create and customize their own avatars and then participate in dozens of missions that help make a real impact— from planting pollinator gardens to reducing energy consumption and food waste. Free, ages 6+, EarthRangers.com
MATH PATH MONSTER
Teamwork and math skills equal victory in this new cooperative game. Deep in the mountains, players stumble upon the Math Monster’s lair and must beat them in an epic race to the cave entrance. $19.99, ages 6+, Amazon.com
BACK TO SCHOOL ON A BUDGET
School 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-toschool 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. 2-4. 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
Personal computers – not to exceed $1,500
CHECK YOUR INVENTORY
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.
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.
COMPARE PRICES
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.
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 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.
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,
L FOR MOM!
BACK TO SCHOO
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.
Back to school can be a stressful time for children and moms alike, so find a way to make going back to school a great time for you too!
Style Savvy
Many families allow room in the budget for new school clothing, school supplies and such. Kids are happy and feeling their best; what about you? Consider buying yourself something new too! How about some new workout clothes for your new routine? Now is the time!
You Time
You’ve probably missed this over the summer, so set aside time now. Consider finding a moms group or starting a group with moms from school. Take time for yourself and connect with other moms. If you prefer solo time, plan the pampering you need!
Catch Up
As if this is really a thing—but we can dream, right?! 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!
Prep Era
Bulk grocery shop (imagine Costco … alone!); organize and plan meals; swap out summer for fall clothing; batch cook breakfast staples or freezer meals; take inventory of needs for fall and winter— the list could go on! The fun comes later when you realize you’re ahead of things!
SOAK UP
giveaway
Enjoy one last hurrah at these local attractions before the first school bell rings. To make these memories even sweeter, KC Parent has partnered with each attraction and is giving away tickets and passes so you can enjoy the fun all month long—check it out on KCParent.com!
SSpend a Day at Crown Center
Crown Center, Kansas City’s downtown shopping center, is home to many great shops and attractions, including The Coterie children’s theater, Kaleidoscope, a free art experience for children, and the free Hallmark Visitors Center. Family favorite attractions Sea Life and Legoland Discovery Center are must-visits when in the district. At Sea Life, enjoy touch pools, an aquarium tunnel and more than 5,000 aquatic animals from waters ranging from the Missouri River to the ocean. At Legoland, enjoy two themed rides, play with the world’s biggest box of Lego bricks, catch a 4D Lego film and explore a miniature Kansas City built with Lego bricks.
OOutdoor Adventure
Powell Gardens offers beautiful gardens, kid-friendly play areas and the summer favorite, a water fountain kids can use to cool off on a hot day. Fortopia, the newest permanent outdoor exhibit, is a collection of whimsical play forts in which children can frolic in a giant beehive, pirate ship, play house and other creative forts.
KKid Play
Wonderscope Children’s Museum of Kansas City offers pretend play in the pint-sized grocery store and farmers market and inspires imaginative play on a train car, riverboat and covered wagon in the transportation exhibit. A high-energy, interactive exhibit pays homage to local teams, and the water play, Wonder Climber, Tot Spot and other exhibits bring hours of fun. Each charming section celebrates Kansas City’s past and present.
AAnimal Adventures
The newest attraction at the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium is the world-class Sobela Aquarium with thousands of oceanic animals. Also be sure to ride the African Sky Safari, a ski-lift-style ride above Africa offering great views of the animals. The Elephant Expedition, camel feeding station, Discovery Barn, Australia exhibit, Helzberg Penguin Plaza, train, carousel and Polar Bear Passage are just a few of our other favorite attractions at the zoo.
UUp in the Tower
National WWI Museum and Memorial tells the story of the Great War through interactive displays, thoughtprovoking films and eyewitness testimonies. With family guides and hands-on exhibits, the museum is an educational attraction for all ages. The museum takes a full afternoon to explore and offers a cafe for a snack break, as well as trips to the top of the tower via an elevator ride followed by climbing several dozen stairs for a great view and photos.
PPickleball and Food
Head to Chicken N Pickle (locations in North KC and Overland Park) for a day of pickleball, delicious food, yard games and family fun. The entertaining eatery offers both indoor and outdoor pickleball courts as well as yard games, shuffleboard and a full menu of delicious American fare.
USU.S. President from Missouri
Step Back in Time
Jackson County Parks + Rec operates two engaging living history museums. Fort Osage, in Sibley, Missouri, was built in 1808 as the first U.S. outpost in the Louisiana Purchase. Osage Indian history and early military history are depicted through exhibits and living history programs. Missouri Town Living History Museum offers more than 25 buildings dating from 1822 to 1860 across 30 acres of land. Visitors can see what life was like on the frontier, and children love visiting the sheep, oxen, chickens, pigs, mules and farm cats. Both sites offer special events throughout the year. Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm in Olathe brings 1850s farming to life with tours and programs all year, including stagecoach rides, family programs and a working blacksmith shop. Children love learning about open-hearth cooking, meeting the animals on the farm face-to-face and experiencing hands-on history with interpreters.
The Truman Presidential Library and Museum in Independence captures the story of Harry S. Truman and his presidency. Visitors read, listen, watch, look and relive through film and interactive displays of some key moments in American history. Films are shown throughout the museum previewing the various exhibits and setting the stage for the stories they tell.
MMini Golf
Art Course, a mini golf experience in the Nelson-Atkins’ Donald J. Hall Sculpture Park, is designed by artists to celebrate some of the most beloved pieces in the museum’s collection. This nine-hole course is the cherry on top of your visit to the world-class art museum where admission is always free. Ask for a scavenger hunt or family guide at the information desk to enhance your visit.
MMonarchs Baseball
Catch a baseball game with the Kansas City Monarchs at Legends Field in Kansas City, Kansas. The team offers great promotions all season, including Disney Night on Aug. 24. Children love the Variety KC baseballthemed playground that’s accessible to children of all abilities. Check their schedule for family fun games and promotions all summer long.
RRide a VR Plane Like
EAmelia’s
Take a day trip to Atchison, Kansas, and visit the Amelia Earhart Hangar Museum. The centerpiece of the museum is the Muriel—the world’s last remaining Lockheed Electra 10-E aircraft—that was named for Earhart’s younger sister and is identical to the plane Earhart piloted on her final flight. Surrounding Muriel are 14 interactive STEM and history storytelling exhibit areas that take visitors through Earhart’s extraordinary life. The interactive exhibits teach more about Earhart and the science of flight. One of the museum’s highlights is the VR experience where visitors can attempt to replicate the end of her first transatlantic flight.
Experiment with Fun
Science City at Union Station offers handson exhibits exploring the human brain, water, outer space, dinosaurs, energy, optical illusions, transportation and more. This is a favorite place to spend a day. Cap your visit to the museum with a show at Gottlieb Planetarium. Live presenters take guests on an engaging journey as they learn about the night sky.
BONUS: More Family Fun as Autumn Approaches
Johnson Farms Plants & Pumpkins will open soon for apple picking followed by pumpkin season! This familyowned business invites visitors to enjoy the fun of a farm. With a petting zoo, jumping pillows, tractor rides, barn games, a corn maze, a beautiful sunflower field, and u-pick veggies, apples and pumpkins, Johnson Farms offers a perfect family day in the country. Follow JohnsonFarms. net for season announcements.
These ideas are just the tip of the iceberg! Visit KCParent.com/summer for even more ideas.
Kristina Light writes about family fun in Kansas City all year long on KCParent.com.
PRODUCE PICKING TIPS:
• Call ahead or check the farm’s Facebook page (linked in the status update for each farm) to verify picking times as they vary from farm to farm. This is a MUST!
• Remember comfortable shoes (you will be walking in fields) and wear sunscreen.
• Bring bottled water and pack a picnic if the farm allows.
OUR TOP PICKS:
Johnson Farms Plants and Pumpkins
17701 Holmes Rd., Belton, 816.331.1067
Johnson Farms hosts apple picking in August and September, even before pumpkin season begins. Enjoy a hayride out to the orchard where you can pick beautiful apples. The farm also has wonderful play spaces, farm animals, u-pick veggies, a lovely sunflower garden, a corn maze and fun photo ops. This is one of our favorite ways to kick off autumn family traditions. Check their website for up-to-date information: JohnsonFarms.net.
Historic Weston Orchard & Vineyard
18545 Co. Rd. H, Weston, 816.640.4013
Situated on a bluff in Historic Weston, this family-owned farm is a fun getaway in the country. Enjoy a u-pick apple orchard with 7,000 trees on 15 acres offering 12 varieties, hayrack rides, apple cannons, rat racers, bouncing pillow, low ropes course with zip line, kids corn maze and more! OrchardWeston.com
Louisburg Cider Mill
14730 K-68 Hwy, Louisburg, 913.285.5300
Although you can’t pick apples at Louisburg Cider Mill, you can enjoy apple treats! Watch as cider is made from scratch, enjoy fresh apple cider donuts and shop their country store. In the fall, play at the pumpkin patch and enjoy the corn maze. LouisburgCiderMill.com
it’s apple picking time
It’s apple picking season! Each of the u-pick apple orchards on our list is a locally-owned family operation designed to provide the best in healthy produce and a great family outing. Apple picking season is typically mid-August through early October, but you’ll want to call farms or check their Facebook status for current hours and information.
ADDITIONAL ORCHARDS:
Alldredge Orchards
10455 Hwy. N, Platte City, Mo., 816.330.3448
Nearby: Watkins Mill
Cider Hill Family Orchard
3341 N. 139th St., Kansas City, Kan., 913.721.2507
Nearby: The Legends Shopping Center
Fun Farm Pumpkin Patch
650 N Jefferson St, Kearney, Mo., 816.628.0028
Nearby: Watkins Mill State Park and Historic Site
Peter’s Orchard
32615 Hwy. 65 S., Waverly, Mo., 660.493.2368
Nearby: Boone’s Lick State Historic Site
Pome on the Range
2050 Idaho Rd., Williamsburg, Kan., 785.746.5492
Nearby: Kanza Park
Rock Creek Apple Orchard
619 W. Lone Jack Lee’s Summit Rd., Lone Jack, Mo., 816.286.6262
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!
Festival of Butterflies Thru Aug. 4, Powell Gardens. Festival of Butterflies invites nature enthusiasts of all ages to celebrate the Midwest’s most whimsical pollinator at Powell Gardens. Spend a day outdoors exploring tropical and native butterflies alongside stunning botanical displays. PowellGardens.org
Johnson County Fair Thru Aug. 4, Johnson County Fairgrounds. It’s been celebrating all of the best in Johnson County while preserving the agricultural heritage of the community since 1939. The Johnson County Fair is a free fair except for the carnival and nightly arena events. Don’t miss out on the fun! JoCoKansasFair.com
Leavenworth County Fair Thru Aug. 3, Leavenworth County Fairgrounds. Come and enjoy a classic American experience at the Leavenworth County Fair! You and your family can delight in the fun of games, contests, derbies, food, rides, exhibits and more. LeavenworthCountyFair.com
Missouri State Fair Aug. 8-18, Missouri State Fairgrounds. Experience “Summer’s Best Story” at the 2024 Missouri State Fair. Enjoy live music, stage shows, family entertainment, auto races, rodeos, bull riding, agricultural demonstrations, contests and a carnival midway. MoStateFair.com
India Fest Aug. 11, OP Convention Center. India Fest is an all-day event to experience the tastes, sounds and sights of India. Enjoy live music, dance, food and entertainment. Admission and parking to the event are completely free. This festival gives the local community a glimpse of India through arts, culture, history and people. IAKC.org
BBQ & Fly-in on the River Aug. 16, Downtown Excelsior Springs. Whether you spell it BBQ, barbeque or barbecue, it’s the taste of America. This year, BBQ & Fly-In on the River will be located in the heart of the community and celebrate its 24th year!
Ethnic Enrichment Festival Aug. 16-18, Swope Park. The Ethnic Enrichment Commission of Kansas City is proud to present one of the largest gatherings of multiculturalism—focusing on the traditional cultures found here in Kansas City and its surrounding metro area. EECKC.org
Parkville Days Aug. 23-25, Downtown Parkville. One of Downtown Parkville’s largest events, the Parkville Days festival features a variety of family-friendly entertainment. Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy live music along the Missouri River and on Main Street. ParkvilleMo.org
Parkville Days
Festival of the Butterflies
KCPARENT.COM CALENDAR FEATURES OVER 1,000 EVENTS EACH MONTH!
Bluey’s Big Play –The Stage Show is coming to the Kauffman Center on Aug. 17. The Emmy Award-winning animated show is a favorite for preschoolers. KauffmanCenter.org No part of this calendar may be
watch
whoop
Celebrate Missouri’s agricultural heritage with family fun at the Missouri State Fair Aug. 8-18. Rodeo events, the giant butter cow, live shows, carnival rides and fun await. MoStateFair.com
play
Bring your dog to Shawnee Town 1929 on Aug. 17 for Dog Days of Summer. Enjoy dog-friendly vendors and services, food trucks, splash pools, music, contests and prizes. ShawneeTown.org
experience
On Aug. 24, head to KidFEST at Science City. Experience the amazing world of science firsthand through fun and engaging exhibits and programs. ScienceCity. UnionStation.org
learn
Encounter and learn about American Sign Language through activities from distinctly Deaf perspectives at the Deaf Cultural Festival on Aug. 24 at the Nelson-Atkins. Nelson-Atkins.org
Missouri State Fair
1 Thursday
Johnson County Fair Thru Aug. 4, Johnson County Fairgrounds. Celebrate the best in Johnson County while preserving the community’s agricultural heritage. JoCoKansasFair.com
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Thru Aug. 4, Coterie Theatre. The world-famous Willy Wonka is opening his marvelous and mysterious factory on stage this summer. TheCoterie.org
Chiefs Training Camp Thru Aug. 6, St. Jospeh. Chiefs fans come cheer on the team as they ready for the season. Tickets required. Chiefs.com/TrainingCamp
Lawrence Summer of Fun Thru Aug. 16, Downtown Lawrence. Free access to exclusive discounts. ExploreLawrence.com/Passports/ Summer-Of-Fun
Leavenworth County Fair Thru Aug. 3, Leavenworth County Fairgrounds. Come and enjoy a classic American experience at the Leavenworth County Fair. LeavenworthCountyFair.com
Festival of Butterflies Thru Aug. 4, Powell Gardens. Celebrate the Midwest’s most whimsical pollinator at Powell Gardens with
STEM Futures Showcase 2024 7:30, Linda Hall Library. Geared toward students in grades 9-12, come interact with real workplaces connected with STEM. LindaHall.org
Olathe Kids Bash 10:00, Johnson County Square. Free entertainment and fun for the family. Pack a picnic and bring the kiddos to enjoy the fun on Thursdays. OlatheKS.gov
Time Travelers 10:00, Shawnee Town 1929. Bring your family and enjoy a trip back to 1929 with an interactive day at our historic farm every Tuesday and Thursday. ShawneeTown.org
Olathe Kids Bash 10:00, Johnson County Square. Free entertainment and fun for the family. Pack a picnic and bring the kiddos to enjoy the fun on Thursdays. OlatheKS.gov
Day Out with Frank and Ella 10:00, Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop. Visitors of all ages experience childhood in the 1860s and 1870s. Mahaffie.org
Disney100: The Exhibition 10:00, Union Station. Relive your dreams with 10 imaginatively themed galleries highlighting renowned classics and more. UnionStation.org
Thursday Toddler Time at Ceramic Cafe 10:00-2:00, Ceramic Cafe. Toddlers 5 and under get to paint one of our selected items for just $12. CeramicCafeKC.com
First Thursdays in Liberty 4:00, Historic Downtown Liberty. Shops and eateries are open late for customers on the first Thursday of each month. HistoricDowntownLiberty.org
Sister Act Thru Aug. 3, Shawnee Theatre in the Park. The feel-good musical comedy smash based on the hit 1992 film has audiences jumping to their feet! TheatreInThePark.org
2 Friday
Missouri Back-to-School Tax-Free Shopping Thru Aug. 4, Missouri retailers. Back-to-school purchases, such as clothing, school supplies, computers and more, are tax-exempt. DOR.Mo.gov
Art Fair Thru Aug. 4, Historic West Bottoms. Free event featuring 15-plus local creators and artists. Enjoy food trucks, music and shopping. WestBottoms.com
Penguin Swims 10:00, Tanganyika Wildlife Park. Get in the water with a few of our feathered friends—touch, pose and play with penguins!
Story Time at Trailhead Books 10:00, Trailhead Books. Bring the littles to enjoy a few stories and crafts in our kids area. TrailheadBooks.com
Day Out with Frank and Ella 10:00, Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm. Visitors of all ages experience childhood in the 1860s and 1870s. Mahaffie.org
Creative Story Time 10:30, Ceramic Cafe. Read a book, then the kids get to paint a ceramic item that goes along with the story and finish with a snack. CeramicCafeKC.com
Collection Tour Noon, The Underground. Come visit Kansas City’s car collection in the subterranean facility, featuring an eclectic collection of vehicles. KansasCityAutoMuseum.com
WeekEnder: Barbie 6:00, Crown Center Square. Free outdoor fun with a local band, food truck and famous flick under the stars. CrownCenter.com
First Fridays in the Crossroads 7:00, Crossroads Art District. Art galleries, retailers and other participating art venues showcase art for free. KCCrossroads.org
Summer Concert Series 7:00 Fridays and Saturdays in August, Ward Parkway. Free outdoor concert on the lawn. WardParkwayCenter.com
Sister Act Thru Aug. 3, Shawnee Theatre in the Park. The feel-good musical comedy smash based on the hit 1992 film has audiences jumping to their feet! TheatreInThePark.org
Something Rotten Thru Aug. 4, Gladstone Amphitheatre. Free outdoor theater production of the musical comedy spoof of brothers who are trying to outshine Shakespeare. GladstoneTIP.com
Sand Cinema Presents Puss in Boots: The Last Wish 8:30, Longview Lake Beach. Enjoy an outdoor movie, games and character photos. Admission charged. MakeYourDayHere.com
3 Saturday
Festival of Butterflies Thru Aug. 4, Powell Gardens. Celebrate the Midwest’s most whimsical pollinator at Powell Gardens with stunning botanical displays. PowellGardens.org
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Thru Aug. 4, Coterie Theatre. The world-famous Willy Wonka is opening his marvelous and mysterious factory on stage this summer. TheCoterie.org
Dora’s Scavenger Hunt at the Zoo 9:00, Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium. Play Dora’s Scavenger Hunt on Saturdays thru Sept. 15. Enjoy Dora the Explorer episodes in the lobby at 9:00. KansasCityZoo.org
Jumperoo 9:00, Urban Air Adventure Park –Overland Park. Children 5 and under and their parent/guardian to jump, bounce and crawl around safely. UrbanAirOP.com
Free Kids Project 9:00, Home Depot locations. Free in-person kids workshops. Enjoy a free basic woodworking project. HomeDepot.com
Heart of America Hot Dog Festival 10:00, Negro Leagues Baseball Museum. Festival celebrates the historical connection between our national pastime and the hot dog. NLBM.com
KC Northern Railroad Rides 10:00, KCNRR. Ride a 16-inch-gauge train on a nearly half-mile track. Fare is $1 per ride; 10-ride punch cards are $9. KCNRR.com
2024 Summer STEM Camp: Electronics 10:00, Lutheran High School. Metro Homeschool Robotics invites you to learn how to build electronics. MetroHomeschoolRobotics.org
Mother Nature Reads 10:00, Lakeside Nature Center. Bring your children for a fun morning and hear Mother Nature read a story and make a craft. LakesideNatureCenter.org
Hike with a Naturalist 10:30, Lakeside Nature Center. Hike focuses on habitats around Lakeside Nature Center. Dress for the weather and enjoy this free program. LakesideNatureCenter.org
Cedar Cove: Public Tours 11:00, Cedar Cove Feline Sanctuary. See these epic animals and learn about their characteristics and behaviors! SaveOurSiberians.org
Back-to-School Bash 4:00, Legends Outlets. Gear up for the new school year with fun activities, live entertainment, and more! LegendsShopping.com
Cultural Night: Celtic 6:00, Powell Gardens. Enjoy the dances of the Scottish Highlands, a hearty Celtic meal and drinks. PowellGardens.org
Movie Night on the Lawn: Harry Potter 7:00, Legends Outlets. Watch timeless classics and Hollywood blockbusters every Saturday through October. LegendsShopping.com
4 Sunday
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Thru Aug. 4, Coterie Theatre. The world-famous Willy Wonka is opening his marvelous and mysterious factory on stage this summer. TheCoterie.org
Art on Walnut 8:00, City Market. Each weekend features a new selection of 32 local artists and makers in front of the Steamboat Arabia Museum. TheCityMarketKC.org
Low-Sensory Sunday 8:30, National WWI Museum and Memorial. Guests visit in a calm, low-stimulating environment 90 minutes before public opening. TheWorldWar.org
Cedar Cove: Public Tours 11:00, Cedar Cove Feline Sanctuary. See these epic animals and learn about their characteristics and behaviors! SaveOurSiberians.org
Free Concert at Theis Park 1:00, Theis Park. Enjoy a free concert in Theis (formerly Volker) Park the first Sunday of the month through September. KCParks.org
Sunday Afternoon Free Program 1:30, Prairie Park Nature Center. A 30-minute free program on nature topics will be presented each day. LawrenceKS.org
Early Literacy Fair 2:00, MCPL – Red Bridge Branch. An open house event with activities and fun ways to explore many of the Library’s early literacy resources. MyMCPL.org
India Fest
Aug. 11, Overland Park Convention Center. Experience the tastes, sounds and sights of India with live music, dance, food and entertainment. IAKC.org
Live Music, Sundays thru August, 2:00, Serendipity Farm & Vine. Enjoy the tasting room, music and friends; kids allowed until 5:00. SerendipityFarmAndVine.com
5 Monday
Gym for Me 9:00, Lenexa Community Center. This activity provides kids a place to run, ride and play while making new friends. Lenexa.com
Sensory-Friendly Days 9:00, Johnson County Museum. This limited-occupancy session is for sensory processing differences in children and families. JCPRD.com
Bugs, Worms and Little Things 10:00, Mt. Olive Lutheran Church. Story time, learning centers and playdates for children ages 0-5. MtOliveLutheranSchool.com
Disney100: The Exhibition Station. Relive your dreams with 10 imaginatively themed galleries highlighting renowned classics and more. UnionStation.org
Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood: A Grr-ific Exhibit 10:00, Crown Center. Free exhibit to play, sing, explore and pretend in some favorite places from the neighborhood. CrownCenter.com
6 Tuesday
We the People 9:00, National Archives at Kansas City. An exhibit focused on how records impact the lives of every American. Archives. gov/Kansas-City
Time Travelers 10:00, Shawnee Town 1929. Bring your family and enjoy a trip back to 1929 with an interactive day at our historic farm every Tuesday and Thursday. ShawneeTown.org
Bugs, Worms and Little Things 10:00, Mt.
Critter Feeding 2:00, Burr Oak Woods Nature Center. Captive amphibians, fish and turtles enjoy their feast every Tuesday and Friday. MDC.Mo.gov
7 Wednesday
Gym for Me 9:00, Lenexa Community Center.
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Giggle Time with the Doo-Dads 10:00, Roe Park. Enjoy a lively and entertaining experience that will have your little ones giggling and grooving with the Doo-Dads. OPKansas.org
Sensory Sensitive Story Time 10:00, MCPL – Red Bridge Branch. This story time is designed to be inclusive of sensory processing differences. MyMCPL.org
Family Night 5:00, Lenexa Public Market. Bring the whole gang for free activities like a balloon artist and classic board games. LenexaPublicMarket.com
8 Thursday
Missouri State Fair Thru Aug. 18, Missouri State Fairgrounds. Enjoy live entertainment, farm shows, demonstrations, carnival rides, food and memories. MoStateFair.com
PickleCon Thru Aug. 11, KC Convention Center. PickleCon is the ultimate pickleball experience, catering to enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels. PickleCon.com
Time Travelers 10:00, Shawnee Town 1929. Bring your family and enjoy a trip back to 1929 with an interactive day at our historic farm every Tuesday and Thursday. ShawneeTown.org
Nature Story Time 10:00, Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens. Little explorers enjoy an enchanting blend of music, movement and adventure. OPKansas.org
Thursday Toddler Time at Ceramic Cafe 10:00-2:00, Ceramic Cafe. Toddlers 5 and under get to paint one of our selected items for just $12. CeramicCafeKC.com
Dog Days of Summer 10:00, Science City. Learn about different breeds of dogs, see how animal brains differ from human brains, enjoy stories and more. ScienceCity.UnionStation.org
9 Friday
Lawrence Summer of Fun Thru Aug. 16, Downtown Lawrence. Free access to exclusive discounts. ExploreLawrence.com/Passports/ Summer-Of-Fun
Ice Cream Social 5:30, Shawnee Town 1929. Celebrate the end of summer 1920s–style ... with blues music and ice cream! ShawneeTown.org
Lyrics on the Lawn 6:00, Hall of Waters. Experience the magic of live music under the stars in the heart of Excelsior Springs. VisitExcelsior.com
Second Friday Summer Concerts 7:00, Kansas City Museum. Enjoy a live concert for $7 per adult in advance. Free for children 12 years and under. KansasCityMuseum.org
Movie in the Park: The Super Mario Brothers Movie 8:00, Blue Springs Rotary Park. Enjoy a special night under the stars at our free movies in the park! BlueSpringsGov.com
10 Saturday
Missouri State Fair Thru Aug. 18, Missouri State Fairgrounds. Enjoy live entertainment, farm shows, demonstrations, carnival rides, food and memories. MoStateFair.com
Free Day Lanesfield School 10:00, Lanesfield School Historic Site. Visit the oldest operating schoolhouse in Johnson County. JCPRD.com
Second Saturdays for Kids! It’s a Carnival 10:00, Park Place. Free entertainment for mornings filled with play, laughter, and meaningful moments together. ParkPlaceLeawood.com
Summer Fun Fest 10:00, Cable Dahmer Arena. Crafts, vendors, food trucks and $10 unlimited ice-skating with free skate rental and bounce house admission. CableDahmerArena.com
DANCE SHOPPE
Celebrating 39 Years in KC
Little Acorns 10:00, Anita B. Gorman Discovery Center. Registration required. Join naturalists for hands-on nature projects. MDC.Mo.gov
Saturday Re-Enactment 10:00, Shoal Creek Museum. The Shoal Creek re-enactors bring the village to life with living history for this free event. ShoalCreekLivingHistoryMuseum.com
Hands-On History 12:00, National WWI Museum and Memorial. Guests of all ages are invited to handle Great War artifacts. TheWorldWar.org
Raytown Live Summer Family Concert Series 7:00, Greenspace. Bring blankets, lawn chairs and food and kick back while you enjoy the tunes. Raytown.live
Stargazing 8:00, Powell Observatory. An interstellar presentation followed by live imaging via the Ruisinger telescope and then visual observing open to all. ASKC.org
11
Sunday
Art Course Summer Season 10:00, NelsonAtkins Museum of Art. Miniature golf in the Sculpture Garden inspired by masterpieces. Nelson-Atkins.org
Brunch and Bingo 10:00, Chicken N Pickle. Hang out with us every Sunday for free Bingo at both locations. ChickenNPickle.com
Lexington’s Heritage 11:00, Downtown Lexington. Discover the history of Lexington with activities for all ages. HistoricLexington.com
Berkley Riverfront Festival 11:00, Berkley Riverfront Park. Free event with over 60 vendors and artists. Enjoy live music, beautiful green space and river views. ArtGardenKC.org
India Fest 11:00, Overland Park Convention Center. Free festival. Experience the tastes, sounds and sights of India, live music, dance, food and entertainment. IAKC.org/India-Fest-2024
Music in the Park 6:00, Blue Springs Rotary Park. Spend a relaxing evening outdoors while enjoying live, free music. BlueSpringsGov.com
12 Monday
Missouri State Fair Thru Aug. 18, Missouri State Fairgrounds. Enjoy live entertainment, farm shows, demonstrations, carnival rides, food and memories. MoStateFair.com
Gym for Me 9:00, Lenexa Community Center. This activity provides kids a place to run, ride and play while making new friends. Lenexa.com
Family Fun Night III 8:30, Summit Waves. Enjoy games, giveaways, concessions and a DJ. Discounts for residents. CityOfLS.net
13
Tuesday
Preschool Indoor Playground 9:30, Merriam Community Center. Ride and slide, drive, pull or push your favorite Little Tikes vehicles. Merriam.org
Pay for Play 10:00, Backyard Specialists. Plan a playdate for your children and their friends at the amazing showroom! BackyardSpecialists.com
Acoustic Night 6:00, Corbin Theatre. Enjoy a night of relaxing acoustic music performed by local musicians during this free concert. LibertyMissouri.gov
14 Wednesday
Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood: A Grr-ific Exhibit 10:00, Crown Center. Free exhibit to play, sing, explore and pretend in some favorite places from the neighborhood. CrownCenter.com
Retro Story Time 10:00, Johnson County Museum. Preschoolers love stories from long ago, read by a special guest from the 1950s All-Electric House. Craft activity included. JCPRD.com
Drop-In History: Civil War Re-Enactor 4:00, John Wornall House Museum. Step back to October 23, 1864, and learn about the Battle of Westport. WornallMajors.org
Family Night 5:00, Lenexa Public Market. Bring the whole gang for free activities like a balloon artist and classic board games. LenexaPublicMarket.com
15 Thursday
Lawrence Summer of Fun Thru Aug. 16, Downtown Lawrence. Free access to exclusive discounts. ExploreLawrence.com/Passports/ Summer-Of-Fun
Thursday Toddler Time at Ceramic Cafe 10:00-2:00, Ceramic Cafe. Toddlers 5 and under get to paint one of our selected items for just $12. CeramicCafeKC.com
Moonlight Market 4:00, Downtown Shawnee. Fresh produce from farmers market vendors, locally crafted goods, food trucks, games and live music. CityOfShawnee.org
Free Family Fun Night 5:00, Kansas Children’s Discovery Center. Enjoy a special place where children can create, discover and learn through play. KansasDiscovery.org
16 Friday
816 Day
BBQ & Fly-in on the River Thru Aug. 17, Historic Downtown Excelsior Springs. More than 50 teams compete at this fun event. Enjoy music, food and more. VisitExcelsior.com
Lawrence Summer of Fun Thru Aug. 16, Downtown Lawrence. Free access to exclusive discounts. ExploreLawrence.com/Passports/ Summer-Of-Fun
Ethnic Enrichment Festival Thru Aug. 18, Swope Park. Enjoy live entertainment, art and delicious food from around the world at this Kansas City tradition. EECKC.org
Innovation Festival Noon, Overland Park Convention Center. An emphasis on discovery, innovation and commercialization across the spectrum of the life sciences. OPConventionCenter.com
Monday or Wednesday • 5:30 & 6:30 p.m. Learn more at LENEXA.COM/PRESCHOOL Drop-in activites: Gym for Me Monday–Wednesday • 9–11 a.m. Splash with Me Monday–Friday • 10–11:30 a.m.
SIX-STOP TOUR: KC’S HISTORIC SCHOOLS
Take a trip back in time to explore one of the area’s old schoolhouses.
1. MISSOURI TOWN LIVING HISTORY MUSEUM
Explore more than 25 buildings dating from 1820 to 1860, including a pioneer school. The small building is heated with a woodburning stove. Visitors sit in antique desks and practice writing on slates. During special events, interpreters in period attire present living history programs, including school lessons. The annual Fall Festival is a favorite time to explore the site.
2. DEANNA ROSE
One attraction is the replica early 1900s one-room country school where children can imagine they are some of Kansas’ earliest learners. With a slate blackboard and antique desks, the building lets children learn what school was like a century ago. In addition to the schoolhouse, the site is home to farm animals, a Kanza encampment, nature trails, playground and more.
3. LANESFIELD SCHOOL
Learn about the history of education in Kansas and Johnson County with a visit to this limestone schoolhouse. Visitors learn about education for rural Kansans in the mid-20th century through a self-guided tour or special programs. The visitors center includes artifacts and memories from early Kansans who lived in the area and some of the school’s teachers.
4. OXFORD SCHOOL
The Oxford School, located in Ironwoods Park, is open to the public free of charge on weekends March through November. One of the oldest schools in Kansas, Oxford School operated from 1877 to 1955, and until 1920, the school was the only one in Oxford Township, providing education for first to eighth graders. Visitors get a chance to see what school was like a century ago.
5. SHAWNEE TOWN 1929
Shawnee Town 1929 depicts a typical day in and around the 1920s farm community, including a oneroom schoolhouse. Built in 1893 and moved here from southern Johnson County, the schoolhouse includes cloak rooms on either side of the entrance. In this size schoolhouse, one teacher typically taught a wide range of ages and grade levels.
6. SHOAL CREEK LIVING HISTORY MUSEUM
The living history museum comprises 21 structures with 17 authentic 19thcentury buildings dating from 1807 to 1885, including a schoolhouse. With school books, slates and old desks, children imagine what education was like for pioneers in Missouri. You may visit the museum during the week or enjoy living history during special events throughout the year.
Photo by Jerry Olschki
816 Day Creekside 4:00, Creekside Infield. Wear KC gear and celebrate this place we call home with vendors, special appearances, music, food and more. CreeksideParkville.com
Third Friday Art Walk KCK 5:00, Downtown KCK. Free, family-friendly celebration of creativity—full of good food, music, art and interactive activities. ThirdFridayKCK.org
Third Friday Art Walk in Englewood 5:30, Englewood District. Art and glass-blowing demonstrations, food trucks, live entertainment and more. EnglewoodStation.com
Raymore Mini Mud Run 5:30, Hawk Ridge Park. A fun obstacle course for kids ages 4-12, with a little mud and water along the way! Raymore.com
Local Life: Overland Park 6:00, Downtown Overland Park. Shop and dine at locally owned businesses and enjoy local activities. DowntownOP.org
Concert in the Courtyard 6:30, Merriam Community Center. Enjoy an evening of live music by Troubadour Retrievers, yard games, face painting and strolling entertainment. Merriam.org
Blues Fest 7:00, Legacy Park. Blues powerhouse Nick Schnebelen and one of the most influential KC musicians, Jason Vivone, are the featured acts this year. CityOfLS.net
Light Up the Lawn: Mariachi Estrella 8:30, Nerman Museum Lawn. Bring your blankets, lawn chairs and picnic baskets and enjoy live music. Food trucks on site. JCCC.edu
17 Saturday
Missouri State Fair Thru Aug. 18, Missouri State Fairgrounds. Enjoy live entertainment, farm shows, demonstrations, carnival rides, food and memories. MoStateFair.com
JCPRD Kids Triathlon 8:00, Kill Creek Park. This youth triathlon is specifically designed to let the kids ages 14 and under be the stars of the show. JCPRD.com
Jumperoo 9:00, Urban Air Adventure Park Overland Park. Children 5 and under and their parent/guardian are invited to jump, bounce and crawl around safely. UrbanAirOP.com
Dora’s Scavenger Hunt at the Zoo 9:00, Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium. Play Dora’s Scavenger Hunt on Saturdays thru Sept. 15. Enjoy Dora the Explorer episodes in the lobby at 9:00. KansasCityZoo.org
Dog Days of Summer 10:00, Shawnee Town 1929. Enjoy dog-friendly vendors and community services, food trucks, splash pools, music, contests and raffle prizes. ShawneeTown.org
Knitting Basics Workshop 10:00, Missouri Town Living History Museum. Living history interpreters teach the history of knitting, how sheep play a role in wool production and the basics of the craft. MakeYourDayHere.com
KC Northern Railroad Rides 10:00, KCNRR. Ride a 16-inch-gauge train on a nearly half-mile track. Fare is $1 per ride; 10-ride punch cards are $9. KCNRR.com
Bluey’s Big Play – The Stage Show Noon, Kauffman Center. The Emmy Award-winning animated show hits the road for fans of all ages to see Bluey and friends. KauffmanCenter.org
Movie Night on the Lawn: Sing 7:00, Legends Outlets. Watch timeless classics and Hollywood blockbusters every Saturday through October. LegendsShopping.com
18 Sunday
Art on Walnut 8:00, City Market. Each weekend features a new selection of 32 local artists and makers in front of the Steamboat Arabia Museum. TheCityMarketKC.org
Brunch and Bingo 10:00, Chicken N Pickle. Hang out with us every Sunday for free Bingo at both locations. ChickenNPickle.com
Fellowship Fest 10:00, Fellowship Church: Greenwood. Enjoy an exciting time of celebration and worship with singer and songwriter Steven Curtis Chapman! FCFamily.org
Berkley Riverfront Festival 11:00, Berkley Riverfront Park. Free event with more than 60 vendors and artists. Enjoy live music, beautiful green space and river views. ArtGardenKC.org
Back to the ’50s: Bowling Noon, Summit Lanes. Back to the ’50s when games, shoe rentals, hot dogs and sodas are 50 cents each. SummitLanes.com
Music in the Park 6:00, Blue Springs Rotary Park. Spend a relaxing evening outdoors while enjoying live, free music. BlueSpringsGov.com
19 Monday
Art Course Summer Season 10:00, NelsonAtkins Museum of Art. Miniature golf in the Sculpture Garden inspired by masterpieces. Nelson-Atkins.org
Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood: A Grr-ific Exhibit 10:00, Crown Center. Free exhibit to play, sing, explore and pretend in some favorite places from the neighborhood. CrownCenter.com
Visit the Museum 10:00, Amelia Earhart Hangar Museum. As one of Kansas’ most celebrated legends, Earhart leaves a legacy that lives on at this Atchison museum. AmeliaEarhartHangarMuseum.org
20
Tuesday
Preschool Indoor Playground 9:30, Merriam Community Center. Ride and slide, drive, pull or push your favorite Little Tikes vehicles. Merriam.org
Disney100: The Exhibition 10:00, Union Station. Relive your dreams with 10 imaginatively themed galleries highlighting renowned classics and more. UnionStation.org
Totally Tots 10:30, Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art. Sing songs, read books, explore art and make your own art at this free program. KemperArt.org
Critter Feeding 2:00, Burr Oak Woods Nature Center. Captive amphibians, fish and turtles enjoy their feast every Tuesday and Friday. MDC.Mo.gov
21 Wednesday
Family Night 5:00, Lenexa Public Market. Bring the whole gang for free activities like a balloon artist and classic board games. LenexaPublicMarket.com
Movie Night at the Aztec: The Wizard of Oz 7:00, Aztec Shawnee Theater. Celebrate the 85th anniversary of this iconic film on screen at the historic 1927 theater. AztecShawnee.com
22 Thursday
Dino-Mite Dino Life 9:00, Martha LaFite Thompson Nature Sanctuary. Learn about dinosaur anatomy and life history, paleontology, fossilization and extinction. NatureSanctuary.com
Pay for Play 10:00, Backyard Specialists. Plan a playdate for your children and their friends at the amazing showroom! BackyardSpecialists.com
Nature Story Time 10:00, Overland Park Arboretum. Little explorers ages 1-6 are invited to this enchanting blend of music, movement and adventure. OPKansas.org
KidFEST
Aug. 24, Science City. A family-friendly day full of science play geared toward early childhood learning! UnionStation.org
23 Friday
Parkville Days Thru Aug. 25, Downtown Parkville. Live music, family-friendly entertainment, Midland Empire Carnival, arts and crafts, retail, food and specialty booths. ParkvilleMo.org
Story Time at Trailhead Books 10:00, Trailhead Books. Bring the littles to enjoy a few stories and crafts in our kids area. TrailheadBooks.com
Fourth Fridays in Olathe 6:00, Downtown Olathe. Food trucks, face painters, balloon artists and other family games near Park & Cherry. FourthFridays.Olathe.org
Fourth Fridays Art Walk 6:00, Downtown Lee’s Summit. Local artists and live music performances that you can enjoy
Music in the Park: Lee’s Summit 6:30, Howard Station Park. Enjoy free summer concerts featuring local talents from all musical genres. DowntownLS.org
Summer Movie: The Goonies 7:00, Overland Park Arboretum. Conclude your summer with a treasure-filled adventure at this affordable outdoor event. OPKansas.org
Light Up the Lawn: The Freedom Affair 8:30, Nerman Museum Lawn. Bring your blankets, lawn chairs and picnic baskets (no alcohol) for these free, fun events! JCCC.edu
24 Saturday
Dora’s Scavenger Hunt at the Zoo 9:00, Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium. Play Dora’s Scavenger Hunt on Saturdays thru Sept. 15. episodes in the lobby at
Jumperoo 9:00, Urban Air Adventure Park Overland Park. Children 5 and under and their parent/guardian are invited to jump, bounce and crawl around safely. UrbanAirOP.com
Tiny Tot Triathlon 9:00, Little Mill Creek Park. Inspire your kids to get active during this fun event for kids ages 3 to 9 years. Two course options. Lenexa.com
Deaf Cultural Festival 10:00, NelsonAtkins. Encounter and learn about American Sign Language through art activities and entertainment from distinctly Deaf perspectives. Nelson-Atkins.org
KidFEST 10:00, Science City. Kids of all ages will experience the amazing world of science firsthand through fun and engaging exhibits and programs. ScienceCity.UnionStation.org
LV Arts at the Park 10:00, Stubby Park. LV Arts at the Park is a one-day outdoor art festival featuring an art fair, live performances, food, drink and free arts activities. LVArts.info
Little Acorns 10:00, Anita B. Gorman Discovery Center. Registration required. Join naturalists for hands-on nature projects. MDC.Mo.gov
The Eximious Mike’s Feats of Brawn and Balance 11:00, MCPL – Red Bridge Branch. Enjoy old-time strongman and contemporary hand-balancing skills. MyMCPL.org
Hands-On History Noon, National WWI Museum and Memorial. Guests of all ages are invited to handle Great War artifacts. TheWorldWar.org
Moo-vie Night 5:00, Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead. Bring your blanket and join us on the lawn for a free outdoor movie on the big screen. OPKansas.org
Wine Walk for Wildlife 6:00, KC Zoo & Aquarium. Guests will stroll the zoo and sip and savor 40 different types of wine and enjoy a variety of musicians and food trucks. KansasCityZoo.org
Movie Night on the Lawn: The Wizard of Oz 7:00, Legends Outlets. Watch timeless classics and Hollywood blockbusters free on the lawn every Saturday thru October. LegendsShopping.com
25 Sunday
KC Northern Railroad Rides 10:00, KCNRR. Ride a 16-inch-gauge train on a nearly half-mile track. Fare is $1 per ride; 10-ride punch cards are $9. KCNRR.com
Cedar Cove: Public Tours 11:00, Cedar Cove Feline Sanctuary. See these epic animals and learn about their characteristics and behaviors! SaveOurSiberians.org
Sunday Afternoon Free Program 1:30, Prairie Park Nature Center. A 30-minute free program on nature topics will be presented each day. LawrenceKS.org
Mark your calendars now to check out KCYA, hear about our fall classes, attend a creative kids workshop, and have some fun at our community party!
AUGUST 26-30
MORE AT KCYA.ORG
816.531.4022 3732 Main St. | KCMO
Farm Fresh History since 1858! Check out our website and Facebook page for summer fun!
Café Equinox
Open daily, Family Tree Nursery (Permanent at Shawnee; pop-up thru March at Overland Park). Enjoy an indoor botanically inspired cafe. FamilyTreeNursery.com
26 Monday
Try It Week Thru Aug. 30, KCYA. Hear about our fall classes, attend a creative kids workshop, and have some fun at our community party! KCYA.org
Mom & Me Bumper Bowling 9:30, Summit Lanes. For just $3 per person, you get a game, shoe rental and drink. SummitLanes.com
Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood: A Grr-ific Exhibit 10:00, Crown Center. Free exhibit to play, sing, explore and pretend in some favorite places from the neighborhood. CrownCenter.com
National Dog Day 12:00, Bar K Dog Park. Enjoy a day with your four-legged friend filled with fun activities, great food, and drinks. BarKDogBar.com
27 Tuesday
Penguin Swims 10:00, Tanganyika Wildlife Park. Get in the water with a few of our feathered friends—touch, pose and play with penguins. TWPark.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. Free after-hours event featuring kids games and activities, a chance to see exhibits and art activities. Albrecht-Kemper.org
28 Wednesday
We the People 9:00, National Archives at Kansas City. An exhibit focused on how records impact the lives of every American. Archives.gov/Kansas-City
Family Night 5:00, Lenexa Public Market. Bring the whole gang for free activities like a balloon artist and classic board games. LenexaPublicMarket.com
29 Thursday
De Soto Days Thru Aug. 31, De Soto. Class-act entertainment, great food, many vendors and the Evans Midland Carnival! DeSotoDays.com
Penguin Swims 10:00, Tanganyika Wildlife Park. Get in the water with a few of our feathered friends—touch, pose and play with penguins. TWPark.com
Pay for Play 10:00, Backyard Specialists. Plan a playdate for your children and their friends at the amazing showroom! BackyardSpecialists.com
Fall Homeschool Days 10:00, Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop and Farm. Check out 1860s activities in cowboy style. Admission charged. Mahaffie.org
Thursday Toddler Time at Ceramic Cafe 10:00-2:00, Ceramic Cafe. Toddlers 5 and under get to paint one of our selected items for just $12. CeramicCafeKC.com
30 Friday
SantaCaliGon Thru Sept. 2, Independence Square. Entertainment, delicious food, handcrafted arts and crafts, carnival and entertainment. SantaCaliGon.com
KC Irish Fest Thru Sept. 1, Crown Center. Delight in top-tier Irish music, delicious Celtic cuisine and captivating cultural performances and experiences. KCIrishFest.com
Creative Story Time 10:30, Ceramic Cafe. Read a book, then the kids get to paint a ceramic item that goes along with the story and finish with a snack. CeramicCafeKC.com
Final Fridays 5:00, Downtown Lawrence. Storefronts convert into flash spaces, and performances and exhibits spill in and out of galleries and businesses. ExploreLawrence.com
Raymore Food Fest 5:30, Recreation Park. Enjoy live music, food truck service and family fun! Raymore.com
Light Up the Lawn: Marty Bush 8:30, Nerman Museum Lawn. Bring your blankets, lawn chairs and picnic baskets for these fun events! JCCC.edu
31 Saturday
Dora’s Scavenger Hunt at the Zoo 9:00, Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium. Play Dora’s Scavenger Hunt on Saturdays thru Sept. 15. Enjoy Dora the Explorer episodes in the lobby at 9:00. KansasCityZoo.org
Jumperoo 9:00, Urban Air Adventure Park Overland Park. Children 5 and under and their parent/guardian are invited to jump, bounce and crawl around safely. UrbanAirOP.com
Disney100: The Exhibition 10:00, Union Station. Relive your dreams with 10 imaginatively themed galleries highlighting renowned classics and more. UnionStation.org
Penguin Swims 10:00, Tanganyika Wildlife Park. Get in the water with a few of our feathered friends—touch, pose and play with penguins. TWPark.com
KC Northern Railroad Rides 10:00, KCNRR. Ride a 16-inch-gauge train on a nearly half-mile track. Fare is $1 per ride; 10-ride punch cards are $9. KCNRR.com
Cedar Cove: Public Tours 11:00, Cedar Cove Feline Sanctuary. See these epic animals and learn about their characteristics and behaviors! SaveOurSiberians.org
Hands-On History Noon, National WWI Museum and Memorial. Guests of all ages are invited to handle Great War artifacts. TheWorldWar.org
Movie Night on the Lawn: The Greatest Showman 7:00, Legends Outlets. Watch timeless classics and Hollywood blockbusters every Saturday through October. LegendsShopping.com
Stargazing 8:00, Powell Observatory. An interstellar presentation followed by live imaging via the Ruisinger telescope and then visual observing open to all. ASKC.org
Spin in to September Open year-round, PennwayPoint. Enjoy Kansas City’s 150-foot Ferris Wheel and spectacular views! Tickets at KCWheel.com
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CLASSES FOR KIDS STARTING AT AGE 3!
OUR INSTRUCTORS CARE FOR AND BUILD CONFIDENCE IN OUR STUDENTS TO PREPARE THEM FOR SUCCESS IN LIFE.
