The Birth Place was carefully designed with you and your newborn in mind. That means cozy suites, luxury amenities and a NICU where you can stay in the same room with your baby. It also means we’re going the extra mile to keep newborns and their families safe and healthy.
• Level II NICU, for babies needing extra care
• Skilled neonatal doctors and nurses
Neonatal nurse practitioners provide on-site support 24/7. Part of The University of Kansas Health System
• Repeat winner of KC Parent’s “Favorite Place to Have a Baby”
• Comforts like queen beds and large windows
create here. thrive everywhere.
FALL ENROLLMENT IS OPEN
Welcome, fall. I love all the seasons, and fall brings a refreshing respite.
With fall, I am beginning to think about the holidays. I love supporting small businesses and I love shopping local. Tell me about the local KC businesses you know—I’d love to hear about local makers, whether they craf for kids or K-State fans (another personal passion)! My email is there to the right.
I recently stayed up watching an 11-inning Royals game, and it took me back to the falls of 2014 and 2015, when all of Kansas City was staying up late to watch the Royals, fghting through the adrenaline to catch some shut-eye, and doing it all again the next day to cheer on the Boys in Blue! What a fun era—and yes, you bet I’m pulling for another one!
Tis quote has become a mantra for me: “Savor the seasons of life day by beautiful day.” Tis is my hope for you: Savor this wonderful season as you enjoy our Kansas City community. You will fnd some fabulous ideas for how to do just that in our Fall Fun Guide, whether you are looking for outdoor activities (pg. 40), classic KC fun (pg. 44), ideas for fall traditions (pg. 42), or inspirational fall foliage (pg. 48).
Also check out our calendar, here in print and online at KCParent.com, to fnd plenty of additional options for family fun this fall. Enter to win tickets to an assortment of venues in our Fall Fun Giveaway. Happy fall, Kansas City!
With you on the journey,
Lauri Clapper, Editor
Publisher Michael Gimotty Michael@KCParent.com
Associate Publisher Darrell Dean Darrell@KCParent.com
Editor Lauri Clapper Lauri@FamilyMediaGroup.com
Art Director Kim Tappan Tappan Design TappanDesign@Gmail.com
Advertising Sales Darrell Dean Darrell@KCParent.com
Digital Engagement Manager
Halley Zitterkopf Halley@KCParent.com
Copy Editor Kelsey Beck Kelsey@KCParent.com
Intern Iris Enna
Distribution
To be added to our distribution list, email Distribution@KCParent.com
Your Favorite Fall Attractions Including Pumpkin Patches, Festivals and Shows Enter to win the Fall Fun Giveaway on KCParent.com!
SPOTLIGHT FALL FUN IN KC
Fall brings colorful foliage and a myriad of seasonal adventures. Enter to win tickets to local favorites in our Fall Fun Giveaway on KCParent.com.
AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITIES GUIDE
Whether your kids are into soccer, dance, art or STEM, find a plethora of extracurricular fun in our After School Activities Guide, which includes programs across the Kansas City metro!
CROSSING KC
OCTOBER IN KC CROSSWORD PUZZLE
By Kristina Light
ACROSS
2 Oct. 2 is a day reminding us to use this method to get to school.
3 KC Royals player who scored the frst run of the game on the frst pitch on Oct. 27, and the last run of the game on the fnal pitch winning the 2015 World Series.
7 According to CandyStore.com, Almond Joy is the most popular Halloween candy in this state.
8 October is National Pizza Month. This national pizza chain was founded in 1958 in Wichita, Kan. (Two Words)
9 According to CandyStore.com, M&Ms are the most popular Halloween candy in this state.
10 It’s popcorn month! Celebrate with a tub from this KC company serving popcorn since 1937. (Two Words)
11 Photo Clue: October is Fire Prevention Month. This iconic bear, at home at Burr Oak Woods, also reminds us to prevent forest fres.
12 The Battle of Westport, sometimes referred to as the “____ of the West,” was fought on Oct. 23, 1864.
13 Meteor shower that will be active from Oct. 2–Nov. 7, with peak meteors expected on Oct. 21.
DOWN
1 Kansas City Chiefs record-setting tight end, born Oct. 5, 1989.
4 The Kansas City Ballet is presenting ALICE (in wonderland) this October. Oct. 6 celebrates this crazy man whom Alice meets at the March Hare’s tea party. (Two Words)
5 On Oct. 30, 1914, this Kansas City landmark and train station opened to the public. (Two Words)
6 This Johnson County city was incorporated as a city of the frst class on Oct. 22, 1971.
WORD FROM DAD NOTHING LIKE CHOCOLATE
“It’s not raining anymore, Mom. Can we go now?”
Te showers that had passed through my neighborhood that a fernoon continued as sprinkles until dinnertime. A fer we’d eaten, I’d stood out on the front porch and held my hand out. Nothing.
Mom held the door open for me, my brother and my two sisters. “Be careful and have fun,” she said.
We trooped out of our home in our costumes, carrying grocery bags for this magnifcent day we thought would never come. Now that night had fallen, it brought streaks of clouds with occasional stars. Te evening air retained the rich aroma from the earlier showers, but the heady scent of liberty f lled my nostrils. I made a beeline for a rendezvous with my friends. For the next few hours, we answered to nobody except the people who opened their doors. Holding the paper bags to our chests and far away from the damp grass, we ran from house to house, where we jumped up and rang the doorbell, shouting, “Trick or treat!”
An adult or older teen smiled benevolently at our costumes, some makeshif, others store-bought, then parceled out the loot. Homemade popcorn balls, candied apples, inexpensive tofees and packs of gum all went into our bags, but nobody wanted anything more than chocolate.
Ten we returned home for a time of reckoning. We dumped our bags on our beds and tallied our receipts with the zeal of Scrooge before his visit from Jacob Marley. Some of our haul we consumed immediately while saving the largest part for November. We tucked other pieces aside as bargaining chips for when our own stash ran low.
At school the next morning, our focus shifed from treats to turkey and from pumpkins to pumpkin pie. But we still had our loot. Sometimes, it even lasted a whole week.
William R. Bartlett lives in Kansas City with his family.
MUSEUM HOURS
Monday - Saturday 9am - 4:30pm
DEARTEACHERS &
Q A
BY PEGGY GISLER AND MARGE EBERTS
LISTEN UP, TEENS—WHILE YOU STILL CAN
PARENTS: Are you looking for a way to talk to your teens about hearing loss? You should be. One in five teens now suffers from hearing loss, most of which is noise-induced, which is 100% preventable. It is hard to get through to teens who often feel physically invincible and more concerned with peer pressure than parental guidance. Yet, they need to understand the serious risks. Hearing damage is irreversible. There is no cure.
Here’s the letter that Shari Eberts used with her children. Feel free to share it with your own. Shari has hearing loss and has worn hearing aids since her 20’s so she truly understands the tremendous downside to not being able to hear well even with the best possible hearing aids.
Dear Kids,
Did you know that 20% of you now have some form of hearing loss? Surprising, I know. You probably thought it was only for old folks, or people born deaf. But hearing loss is real, and growing, and there is currently no cure.
The statistics are frightening and the repercussions are permanent. But it’s not really your fault. You haven’t been educated about hearing loss.
Here is a quick lesson.
Your Hearing Is Fragile
Noise-induced hearing loss occurs when the sensory cells inside the cochlea of your inner ear are damaged. These cells are very sensitive, which allows us to hear a full range of tones, but also very delicate. When exposed to loud noise on a frequent basis, these cells weaken and eventually die, and once they do, they are gone for good.
Scientists have not yet found a way to regenerate hair cells, although organizations like Hearing Health Foundation and Stanford Initiative To Cure Hearing Loss are working on it.
What Are the Facts?
Prolonged exposure to any noise at or above 85 decibels can cause gradual hearing loss. This is the level of heavy city traffic or a school cafeteria. At 105 decibels, the maximum volume of an iPod, some hearing loss can occur within 15 minutes. At 110 decibels, the level of a rock concert or loud sporting event, damage can occur after one minute.
Hearing Loss Is No Fun
Take it from someone with hearing loss—you don’t want it. Hearing loss is isolating. It makes it harder to enjoy socializing, especially in restaurants and places with lots of background noise, as it becomes harder to pick out the human voices amid all the other noise. You may find yourself missing the joke when everyone is laughing or starting to avoid certain friends whose voices you cannot hear well.
Listening to music also becomes less fun because you may not be able to hear certain instruments or the full range of vocal tones.
Keeping up at school and at work becomes more difficult. You may miss important instructions or key pieces of a lecture, especially if your teacher has his or her back turned. You might also sleep through your alarm if you cannot hear it.
Life also becomes more dangerous, particularly if you cannot hear smoke alarms or other warning bells, which are often high-pitched. High pitches are typically the first to be lost in noise-induced hearing loss.
Hearing Aids Don’t Work Like Glasses
Sure, hearing aids are available, and do help a great deal, but hearing aids will not restore your hearing back to normal, like glasses or contacts do for most vision problems. They are also not very good at picking out the sounds you want to hear. For example, if you are at a party, hearing aids will augment the sounds of your friends’ voices, but also the clinking of glasses, and the hum of the A/C or a heating unit. Picking out the right sounds can often be harder with the hearing aids than without them.
Hearing aids also change the way music sounds. Most hearing aids are digital, which can make music sound tinny and synthesized. You will miss the richness of the tones and the contrasts of the harmonies.
Noise-Induced Hearing Loss is 100% Preventable
The good news is that noise-induced hearing loss is entirely preventable. You have the power to protect your ears. Use it. Follow these simple rules and you can enjoy better hearing your whole life through.
1. Turn it down. Enjoy your music; listen at a safe level. Fifteen minutes at maximum volume on your iPod is all it takes to damage your hearing. Listening time is cumulative so you can listen longer at lower volumes and stay safe. Try noise-canceling headphones which block out background noise, allowing you to enjoy your music at lower volumes.
2. Block the noise. Wear earplugs or earmuffs at concerts or sporting events. They come in many sizes and styles. Some are even made specifically for listening to music.
3. Move away. The farther you are from the noise, the safer it is. Always pick a seat far away from loud speakers and if you see a noisy construction site, cross the street.
Parents, encourage the teens in your life to protect their hearing now.
Want more information? Visit Shari’s website LivingWithHearingLoss.com to find out about her blog and book Hear & Beyond: Live Skillfully with Hearing Loss for very helpful advice on dealing with hearing loss.
Whether your child has a learning disability, needs remediation, or wants to improve grades and standardized test scores, tutoring provides the help students need to achieve their overall goals.
Whether your child has a learning disability, needs remediation, or wants to improve grades and standardized test scores, tutoring provides the help students need to achieve their overall goals. Getting customized help can cost a pretty penny, but it can also be done on the cheap. Here are a few ways to fnd tutoring options on any budget.
ASSESSING THE VALUE
In most cases, tutoring can cost anywhere from $20–$100 an hour. Pricing ofen directly correlates to the type of expertise you’re seeking. Additionally, expect rates to increase the more difcult or specialized the feld of study, the higher the tutor’s education level, and the more in-demand they are.
Caleb Pierce, owner of Get Smarter Prep in Leawood and Prairie Village, says students come through his doors with one goal: to improve their college entrance prospects through higher ACT test scores. One of the greatest challenges he sees is test anxiety impeding students’ performance. “When we can alleviate that test anxiety, it builds confdence and maximizes a child’s potential,” Pierce says, adding that there’s a domino efect when anxiety is reduced. “Better test scores ensure larger scholarships and prepare students for college.”
Pierce asserts that Get Smarter Prep has a leading edge in the test prep feld because it’s locally owned and operated. Not only do employees live in the same neighborhoods as the students who utilize their services, but all tutors are experts in their felds, testing in the top 1% of each section they instruct. Get Smarter Prep ofers small group, semigroup and private instruction.
Students in the KC metro can also fnd test prep and tutoring services through referrals from teachers, classmates, family and friends. National franchises such as Kumon or Sylvan Learning Centers ofer in-person small group and private instruction as well.
HOW TO SWING TUTORING FEES
Good services don’t always come cheap. Here are some ways to ft tutoring into your budget:
• If tutoring is for a season, consider forgoing luxury items for a short period to invest in it. Limit eating out or utilizing services such as video or music streaming.
• Consider tutoring a utility, not a luxury. Paying the water bill isn’t optional, and a tutoring service may be essential for your student as well.
• Get a side gig. If stretching the budget is a no-can-do, look to bring in extra dough through a part-time job such as grocery delivery or completing online surveys.
Stay in School
Before outsourcing reinforcements, consult with your child’s teacher to see if they have availability during a study hall or afer school. Since your child’s teacher already has frsthand knowledge of your child’s achievements, they’ll be able to navigate seamlessly between homework and additional individual needs. Tis can bypass the need for a tutor altogether. Many schools provide peer tutoring programs in which accelerated students provide support to fellow classmates who need an extra hand. Additionally, National Honor Society members sometimes provide outreach programs at local high schools. And don’t forget to consult with local community colleges and four-year schools that provide low-to-no-cost academic resources.
After School Programs
For many children, staying home alone isn’t yet an option. Afer school programs
through nonproft organizations such as Boys & Girls Club or YMCA ofer a safe place to land and boast tutoring services for homework and test prep.
Churches and Community Centers
Olathe resident Dan McDonald ofers his math tutoring services for free at his church. McDonald’s career in math education reads like a long addition problem: His 48-year teaching career led him to every position from elementary school counselor, to principal, to high school and junior high math teacher, to math instructor at a quasi-military academy for at-risk youth. Upon his retirement in 2020, McDonald found himself taking on a new position as his wife’s full-time caregiver while she battled chronic health issues. Upon her passing, Dan poured his heart and energy into ofering free tutoring. Consult with your own church, synagogue or community center to see if similar options are available.
Barter or Trade
Maybe your child’s needs are beyond your skillset, but you can’t fnd a local service that works for your family’s fnancial or time constraints. Don’t underestimate the power of consulting within your social circle. Reach out to family and friends to see if they know of a retired teacher or anyone working in a feld that pertains to your child’s area of need. A neighbor who works as an engineer, for instance, might be an excellent resource for your high schooler’s physics conundrums. While some might be willing to volunteer for free, consider ofering services such as babysitting, pet sitting or house cleaning in exchange. In this way, everyone wins!
Lauren Greenlee is the mom of four amazing boys ranging from preschool to high school. She’s incredibly grateful for her oldest son’s math tutor as he alleviated much stress in their household regarding algebraic equations! She writes from her home in Olathe.
DATES GOING LOCAL
We’re back with another streetcar progressive date!
FIRST STOP: Union Station/Pershing & Main
We enjoy being tourists in our own city, and the Kansas City Gangster Tour is one tour we can highly recommend! Kansas City has an interesting history, and this tour educates you about the Prohibition era (1920–1933) when gangsters ruled the city. You’ll learn about the reign of Boss Tom (aka Tom Pendergast) and hear about the 12th Street gambling district and “death corner” at 5th and Cherry. You’ll also get to see all the major landmarks of KCMO. This tour is entertaining, engaging and well worth the time and money! It starts and ends at Union Station and costs $35/person. Tours run year-round on Saturdays, start at 10:00 or noon, and last approximately 90 minutes.
SECOND STOP: Library/9th & Main
Sometimes, instead of a whole pie, you just want a slice of pizza. And one of our absolute favorite places for that is Milwaukee Delicatessen Company Their pieces are literally as big as your head and have perfectly crispy crust and loads of toppings with flavor and goodness in every bite. Not only is their pizza delicious, but their restaurant is located in a beautiful old building with fantastic architecture, murals and marble floors, all original. And don’t miss the iconic black-and-white photo of horses dropping off the first delivery of beer after the repeal of Prohibition—it’s just one piece of the fascinating history of this place. You can read more on their website.
THIRD STOP: River Market West/4th & Delaware
Betty Rae’s is probably KC’s best-known ice cream shop, and for good reason. They’ve been hand-scooping ice cream for almost 10 years now: The original location in Waldo opened in 2015, the River Market location set up shop in 2018, and they have since expanded to Olathe, Merriam and Prairie Village. They serve up 26 flavors of house-made ice cream daily. Their regulars include classics like cinnamon, strawberry and cookies and cream. They also have more unusual flavors like goat cheese, candied apricots and walnuts; lavender and honey; and cereal and milk. They also offer other limited-time options on a rotating basis. The most unique one I have tried is Joe’s BBQ: vanilla ice cream mixed with Joe’s burnt ends, BBQ sauce, BBQ caramel swirls, and a dash of cayenne and brown sugar. And it’s actually not half bad! Honestly, everything we have had there has been amazing. Next time we go, I’m determined to try an ice cream sandwich. Or maybe a boozy shake.
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.
Do you love or hate falling back in the fall with daylight saving time? It’s a dilemma many families deal with. If you can’t move to a place that doesn’t observe daylight saving time (like Arizona, Hawaii or Puerto Rico), here are some tips to help your family.
TIPS TO “FALL BACK” WITH LESS STRESS
Ways you can help your family adjust to time changes
In the week leading up to the time change, gradually shif your schedule by going to bed 15 or 20 minutes later each day. Four days before daylight saving time begins, delay dinner and bedtime by 15 minutes—for example, if your child’s bedtime was 8:00, start by pushing it to 8:15. Two days later, delay bedtime by another 15 minutes; when the clocks change, push it back a further 15 minutes; and two days afer that, push it back one last time.
If your child is older and starts waking too early, which is typical when we “fall back,” explain that it is not awake time yet and encourage them to doze or read quietly in bed.
You can further prepare for the time change by gradually adjusting the timing of other daily activities, including meals and exercise, starting a week in advance. Tis way, your family has already started to acclimate before the clock changes.
If you enter the change sleep-deprived, you’re more likely to have signifcant ill efects, so it helps to sleep well in the nights leading up to the time change. Essentially, you are building up a “sleep bank” to cope with the switch. Tis also makes it easier to stay awake during the day and avoid dozing of A week before the time change, start using relaxation methods from basic deep-breathing to meditation to calm your body and make it easier to transition into sleep. Tese are especially helpful if you wake up in the middle of the night! You can teach your kiddos to do this too.
Set your clocks before you go to bed!
Tis is a must, especially on school or church days. Most cell phones and electronic devices update automatically, but the clocks on your oven and microwave, as well as other household clocks, need to be manually adjusted.
Other helpful tips for bedtime:
Try not to overload your schedule the Sunday or Monday afer the time shif in case you experience daytime sleepiness. If possible, schedule important meetings or events for later in the week. It’s also best to avoid long drives right afer the time change because of the potential dangers of drowsy driving.
• Maintain a fxed sleep schedule on both weekdays and weekends
• Maintain a routine for getting ready for bed each night
• Limit or avoid cafeine and alcohol, especially in the afernoon and evening
• Go “device free” for at least 30 minutes before bed
• Block unwanted noise and light from your bedroom, or use accessories like a sleep mask and ear plugs
• Choose a supportive mattress and comfortable bedding
Ways to prevent food-related sleep disruptions include:
• Eat dinner at least a few hours before going to bed
• Limit consumption of heavy and spicy foods in the evening
• Be mindful of cafeine in beverages, including sodas Every child is diferent. Some will adjust to the time change with no problem, while others will be exhausted and cranky, but they’ll all get there eventually. Remember to have patience and work through it together as a family.
An avid outdoors girl, Judy Goppert lives in Lee’s Summit. She enjoys drawing on her personal experiences to write about the nuances of everything wonderful about life.
Sources: SleepFoundation.org, MommyNearest.com
PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCES
BEING PREPARED AND ASKING THE RIGHT QUESTIONS
Parent-teacher conferences are a crucial part of your child’s educational journey. These meetings provide an opportunity to understand your child’s progress, address concerns, and strengthen the connection and communication between home and school. Proper preparation and asking the right questions can help you make the most of these conferences.
BE PREPARED
Mark the date of the parent-teacher conference on your calendar as soon as you receive it. Tis will ensure you don’t forget amidst your busy schedule. Tis will also give you a chance to fnd childcare for your child or her younger siblings who might distract you during the meeting. You may fnd it helpful to ask the teacher for an outline or agenda before the conference so you can better prepare relevant questions and comments and discuss them with your child in advance.
MAKE A LIST OF QUESTIONS AND PRIORITIZE THEM
Prior to the conference, make a list of questions and concerns you would like to discuss with your child’s teacher. Start with the most pressing concerns to ensure they are addressed. “Be prepared with what questions you want to ask,” says Kara Tomas, Shawnee mom and teacher. “Conferences are usually limited in time, so asking them at the beginning allows the teacher to stay on time and still address your concerns.”
QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER
Academic performance
• How is your child performing in various subjects?
• Is he meeting grade-level expectations?
• What are her strengths and areas for growth?
Social skills and behavior
• How does your child interact with peers?
• Does he participate in class discussions?
• Are there any behavior concerns?
Learning habits
• How does your child approach assignments and projects?
• Does she exhibit good study habits and time-management skills?
Support and resources
• What resources are available if extra help is needed?
• How can you support your child at home?
IDENTIFY GOALS AND TEACHER EXPECTATIONS
Understanding your goals and the teacher’s expectations can provide a clear direction for the conference. Refect on what you hope to achieve in the meeting. Are you looking to understand your child’s academic performance better? Do you want to address behavioral issues? Are you seeking advice on how to support your child’s learning at home? Try to understand the teacher’s expectations for your child. Each teacher may have diferent priorities and teaching styles. Knowing these can help you support your child more efectively. For example, some teachers might focus on independent learning, while others might emphasize group activities and participation. “Be open to the fact that your child may do things diferently at school than they do at home,” says Tomas.
LOOK OVER WORK AND GRADES PRIOR TO THE CONFERENCE
Before attending the parent-teacher conference, review your child’s recent work and grades. Tis will give you a clear understanding of his academic standing and highlight areas that may need attention. Look for patterns in his performance, such as consistently low scores in a particular subject or incomplete assignments. If you have specifc concerns, bring samples of your child’s work to the conference. Tis can provide concrete examples to discuss with the teacher. Understanding your child’s performance before the meeting allows you to ask informed questions and engage in a more productive conversation.
TALK TO YOUR CHILD
Your child is the most important person in this process. It is crucial to talk to her before the conference. Ask her about her experiences in school, her favorite subjects, any challenges she may be facing, and her relationships with classmates. Tis conversation can provide valuable insights to bring up during the conference. Encourage your child to share her perspective on her performance and behavior. Tis can help you understand her motivations and any underlying issues. Discussing the upcoming conference with your child alleviates any anxiety she might have and reinforces that you and the teacher are working together to support her success.
Preparing for a parent-teacher conference involves thoughtful planning and proactive communication. Tis will not only help you address any concerns you may have, but reinforces the collaborative efort to give your child the support he needs to be successful at school.
“Know that your child’s teacher wants to partner with you to give your child their best start on their educational path,” says Tomas. Te goal of the conference is to foster a supportive environment for your child’s growth and development. By being prepared and engaged, you can make the most of the opportunity to support your child’s learning and well-being.
Sarah Lyons is a mom of six children, including 9-year-old triplets. She lives in Olathe with her family.
BIRTHDAY
PLANNING SECRETS:
Tips from Savvy Moms
Planning the perfect birthday party for your kids may seem a Herculean task, but it doesn’t have to be! Follow these party planning secrets approved by savvy moms to make your kids’ birthday parties the best yet—with minimal stress!
Brainstorm Ideas with the Birthday Kid
Sometimes your expectations are much higher than your child’s. Danielle Hewitt, a mom of three from St. Joseph, suggests brainstorming ideas with your child. “When I started brainstorming with my daughter about her birthday party, I realized she wasn’t wanting an extravagant party. She came up with a great idea that was easy to put together and budget-friendly. It ended up being her favorite party to date,” says Hewitt.
Thank You Notes
While your child is opening gifts, instead of taking time to write a list of gifts and givers for thank you notes, simply snap a quick photo of the birthday child, guest
and gift opened. It will be a quick and easy reference for thank you notes. You could even print the photos out to use as personalized thank you notes.
Digital Invites
Keep it simple with invitations! Save the time of finding addresses and addressing each invitation. Send digital invites via text, email, Facebook event pages or websites like Evite.com. You will also save money on printing, envelopes and stamps! Just keep in mind you might need to follow up with guests if you don’t receive a response to your invitation. Parents are busy, and invitations can easily get lost in their email or social media pages.
Scoop Ice Cream Before the Party
Margaret Sarver’s favorite party hack is to line a muffin pan with cupcake liners and place scoops of ice cream in each liner before the party and put back in the freezer. Pull out the muffin pan when serving cake and, voila, no mess!
Prevent Leaks
Serving ice cream cones? Place a small marshmallow in the bottom of each ice cream cone to prevent leaks and sticky hands.
Prep the Night Before
I like to prep everything for the party the night before. I put up all the decorations, pick up the cake and balloons, prepare food and drinks and have everything for the activities ready to go. By prepping the night before, you can enjoy the party day, and you will have time to run and grab a last-minute item you might have forgotten before the party starts.
Create Individual Party Packages for Each Guest
To save the hassle of passing out craft supplies for activities, put together party kits in a plastic bag beforehand. The bag will have everything each guest will need to complete the craft or activity. Make sure you assemble a few extras in case someone didn’t RSVP or a younger brother or sister would like to join in the fun!
Invest in a Plastic Pool
A plastic pool isn’t just for splashing around. It can serve so many purposes for a birthday party. Fill it with plastic balls for a ball pit, water balloons for a balloon fight, ice to keep drinks cold, sand for a digging activity or Orbeez for a sensory activity for little ones.
Recruit Help from Your Kids
Let your kids be involved in the party planning process. I love letting them put together the goody bags for their friends. It keeps them busy and checks one thing off the party planning to-do list!
Let the Activity Be the Favor
Instead of creating favor bags, do an activity that allows kids to take home what they made. Hewitt’s daughter’s party activity was creating different doit-yourself fidget toys. All the kids went home with a bag full of all the toys they created. Other examples include painting a ceramic piece, decorating cookies or cupcakes or tie-dying a pillowcase.
Ask for Any Special Allergies When Guests RSVP
Make sure none of the children have food allergies when the parents RSVP. We have a family friend with a peanut allergy, so we try to make sure all the snacks and the cake are peanut allergy friendly, so he can eat what everyone else is eating.
Easy Drinks
Provide a variety of drink options, but make sure they are individual-serving drinks instead of drinks that need to be poured into cups. Hewitt says, “Water bottles and Capri Suns work perfectly. They’re easier to pass out, you will have less spills, and the cleanup is easier.”
Simple Tablecloths
If you’re planning a messy activity, do yourself a favor and buy some plastic tablecloths. When the activity is over, you can throw away the tablecloth and everything on the table at one time. You will be saving your table from the mess and saving on cleanup time.
Visit www.kansascityzoo.org/birthdays to plan your party today!
Regan Lyons is a girl mom and freelance writer. She lives with her husband, Cale, and daughters Atley and Ensley in St. Joseph.
Consider these local venues and experiences
Ceramic Cafe
Celebrate your child’s birthday at Ceramic Cafe. All parties are scheduled for one-and-a-half hours, giving you plenty of time to open presents and serve cake and ice cream. Choose from painting pottery, creating with clay or a glass fusion project. Ceramic Cafe birthday parties are creative and fun for any age. Call 913.383.0222 or visit CeramicCafeKC.com for more details. See display ad on pg. 20.
Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium
Let the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium host your child’s next birthday party. We guarantee a wild time for every guest! We are currently
offering birthday party options on weekends. Zoo admission and rides wristbands are available as an add-on. You are welcome to provide your own décor, food and activities. Visit KansasCityZoo.org/birthdays to join us for a celebration like no other! See display ad on pg. 21.
Movies2U
Roll out the red carpet and celebrate that special occasion with a movie! Round up the kids to watch their favorite movie on one of our largerthan-life infatable screens. Throw in our popcorn machine and the effect will be complete. The kids won’t forget it and you’ll love it as our professional staff takes care of every
detail. One of our four differently sized screens is sure to ft your occasion and budget. See display ad on pg. 20. Movies2U.com
Urban Air Adventure Park
Urban Air Adventure Parks in Lenexa and Overland Park continue to be voted Best Kids’ Birthday Party Place year after year. It’s the perfect place for indoor stress-free birthday parties for all ages. More than just a trampoline park, Urban Air has something for everyone. Let the kids fy through the park on our sky rider, take on our climbing walls or reach new heights on our trampolines. Urban Air. Let ‘em fy. See display ad on pg. 22. UrbanAirLenexa.com, UrbanAirOverlandPark.com
Both locations now
Treetops & Treehouses IN KANSAS CITY
Autumn brings out a love for trees and all things cozy about nature. These delightful parks are perfect for a fall playdate!
An Accessible Treehouse
Variety KC Inclusive Treehouse at Wonderscope Children’s Museum, Kansas City, Mo.
Wonderscope Children’s Museum is a favorite place to learn and play year-round in Kansas City! The indoor museum and the outdoor playground are fully inclusive and accessible to children of all abilities. We love the inviting environment for everyone. The outdoor playground features an adaptive treehouse with ramps, extra space for wheelchair users and sensory experiences.
A Treetop Canopy
Wilder Bluff Park, Shawnee, Ks.
Wilder Bluff is one of the most beautiful parks in Shawnee. The 40-acre park features a unique treetop canopy playground, hillside slide and a nature-themed sprayground (for the summer months).
Nature lovers enjoy the 1.38 mile trail, natural grasses and patio overlook. The park shelter also includes a fireplace and a buffet ledge with power outlets—perfect for gatherings.
Brumble’s Forest
Meadowmere Park, Grandview, Mo.
Brumble’s Forest is the centerpiece of this delightful park that features soft surfaces and a charming forest-themed playground with a bridge, treehouse, slide and more. The park also has a trail, picnic shelter and skate park.
KS
Sycamore Trail
Anita Gorman Discovery Center, Kansas City, Mo.
The Discovery Center is a favorite free nature center near the Country Club Plaza and Kauffman Memorial Gardens. With exhibits on Lewis and Clark and native plants and animals, this is a great educational outing for families. Outside the center, visitors enjoy walking trails landscaped with native plants, as well as the Sycamore Trail, a delightful outdoor children’s play place inspired by native trees.
Urban
Treehouses
Meadowbrook Park, Prairie Village, Ks.
This 80-acre park is a favorite for all ages. With their Treeline Adventure playground, featuring modern treehouses for children to explore as they play; The Grove, an inclusive nature-themed playground; fun photo ops, including the beautiful sunflower arch; pickleball courts; paved trails and lakes; this is an urban oasis in the heart of Johnson County.
Meadowbrook Park in Prairie Village,
Kristina Light, mother of four, loves sharing family adventures with KCParent.com readers year-round.
5 QUICK TIPS FOR YOUR AFTER SCHOOL ROUTINE
The hours afer school until bedtime go by in a fash. Emptying backpacks, doing homework, cleaning up—don’t forget about dinner and bath time! Of course, the family has to squeeze in sports and other activities too. It’s exhausting. Sometimes it’s hard not to feel like a shaken can of soda ready to burst under pressure.
Tings—and kids—need to be taken care of. How do we fgure out what everyone needs and what needs to be done? And how do we stay sane through it all?
Let’s talk about routines that work!
1 Introvert vs. Extrovert
Te frst, and maybe most important, tip for your afer school routine is to fgure out how your children recharge their mental and emotional batteries. Just as adults need to unwind afer a long day at work, kids do too. Afer a taxing day at school, kids come home and recharge diferently.
Unfortunately, some may not be self-aware enough yet to realize this. Tis is where we parents come in, meeting the needs of our children. Some kids may choose to decompress with you and chat about their day. Some may prefer to sit or play quietly by themselves. Encourage kids to do what feels best for them, even if they may not want to all the time.
2 Food First
Chances are, your children come home hungry afer school. Tey probably eat lunch and burn up all their energy on the playground long before they walk through the door at home.. Afer school, they are mentally, physically and emotionally sapped. Provide kids with a nutritious snack when they come home from school.
Eating a little something will help create a pause in their day before running full speed into an evening routine or activity. It will also help everyone make it to dinnertime with a little more sanity intact.
3 Encourage Physical Activity
Your children may want to come home from school and sprawl out on the couch for hours of TV. Occasionally, that can be fne, but on most days parents need to provide children with balance. Tey’ve spent a lot of time sitting during the school day, so try encouraging them to do something physical. Tey can play outside, turn on some tunes and dance or take a walk with you.
4 Involve Them in the Planning
Kids like to know what’s expected of them. Tey usually behave better knowing what’s coming. If your children can read, display the routine in a place they can see it. If they can’t read yet, use pictures. Involve them in the planning before creating a routine. Ask whether they’d prefer a snack in the car or when you get home. Find out whether they’d like to be alone or immediately tell you about their day. Maybe they want to shower when they get home or snuggle with a favorite stufed animal. Chances are they have some opinions—and things might go a lot smoother if you involve them in the planning.
5 Put Them in Water or Take Them Outside
One of the most impactful pieces of parenting advice foating around the internet is to “put [kids] in water or take them outside.” Did you know this works for overstimulated kids afer school too?
Afer school meltdowns? Try a calming bath immediately afer entering the house. Cranky toddler? Let him play in the sink. Bickering kids? Take them in the backyard on a scavenger hunt. You may need to be prepared, but adding water or fresh air will minimize those afer school battles.
Kailyn Rhinehart writes from Warrensburg, Mo., where she lives with her husband and two small children.
ANTS ON A LOG
EASY AFTER SCHOOL SNACK IDEAS
Check out these easy—and fun—snack ideas for your kids
This is a classic. Wash and slice celery sticks and fll them with peanut butter (or any nut butter) and top with raisins. You can even use other dried fruits if you wish to add a variety of favors.
SILLY SNACK FACES
Take rice cakes and spread cream cheese, peanut butter, cheese sauce or another spread onto them. Provide your child with raisins to use for eyes, apple strips to serve as a mouth, grated carrots to use as hair, etc. You spread them and let your child do the rest. The kids love to get creative and have fun before they gobble down their snacks!
KEBABS
What kids don’t love to play with their food? Take Popsicle sticks (safer than
skewers) and cut up various fruits into cubes. Help your children thread them onto the stick to make a kebab. Give them some yummy caramel dip or cream cheese for dunking.
YOGURT
PARFAITS
Get some fun cups (try the dollar store to fnd some fun ones that can be your
parfait cups) and layer in yogurt and then fruit with another layer of yogurt and fruit. Top with nuts, granola or even chocolate chips. Yum!
TRAIL MIX
Purchase various nuts, raisins, dried fruits, granola, popcorn, pretzels and some M&Ms. Pour equal amounts of each item into a large bowl. Cover, shake and snack!
FRUIT CUTOUTS
Use mini cookie cutters to cut shapes out of all sorts of things. One idea is to slice various fruits (kiwi, apples, pears, peaches) thinly and then use small cookie cutters to cut them out into fun shapes. The kids think they are eating a star and don’t know it’s good for them.
KC PARENT FAMILY
Thank you to our readers who voted in KC Parent’s Family Favorites 2024!
We appreciate your support for this tradition for over 35 years.
After tabulating over 30,000 votes, we are pleased to announce the businesses which have been chosen as a KC Parent Family Favorite 2024!
Favorite Animal Attraction
Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium
Favorite Children’s Museum
Wonderscope Children’s Museum of KC
Favorite Art Museum
Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
Favorite History Museum
National WWI Museum and Memorial
Favorite Living History Museum
Missouri Town Living History Museum
Mahaffe Stagecoach Stop & Farm
Favorite Science Museum
Science City at Union Station
Favorite Specialty Museum
Negro Leagues Baseball Museum
Favorite Live Theater
Starlight Theatre
Favorite Family Fun Center
Main Event
Favorite Garden / Nature Center
Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens
Favorite Free Attraction
Hallmark’s Kaleidoscope
Favorite Pumpkin Patch
Carolyn’s Pumpkin Patch
Johnson Farms Plants and Pumpkins
Favorite Agritourism Site
Louisburg Cider Mill & Pumpkin Patch
Favorite U-Pick Farm
Historic Weston Orchard
FAVORITES 2024
Favorite Free Christmas Attraction
Crown Center Holiday Traditions
Favorite Paid Christmas Attraction
Kansas City Ballet’s Nutcracker
Favorite Festival
KC Renaissance Festival
Favorite New Attraction
Sobela Aquarium at Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium
Favorite Place to Have a Baby in Missouri
Saint Luke’s Hospital of Kansas City
Favorite Place to Have a Baby in Kansas
AdventHealth Shawnee Mission
Best Emergency Room
Children’s Mercy Hospital
Favorite Pediatric Dentist
The Smile Spot
LeBlanc & Associates
Favorite Orthodontist
Fry Orthodontics
Favorite Swim School
Goldfsh Swim School
Favorite Tutoring
Sylvan Learning
Favorite Photographer
Becca Blackburn Photography
Favorite Weekend Getaway
Branson, Missouri
Favorite Party Venue (for ages 0-5)
Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead
Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium
Favorite Party Venue (for ages 6-11)
Legoland Discovery Center
Science City at Union Station
Favorite Party Venue (for ages 12 and up)
Chicken N Pickle
Urban Air Trampoline Park
Favorite Garden Supply / Nursery
Family Tree Nursery
Favorite Farmers Market
City Market
Favorite Shopping Center/ District
Town Center Plaza
Legends Outlets of Kansas City
Favorite Animal Rescue / Adoption
KC Pet Project
Wayside Waifs
Favorite Pet Daycare
Woof’s Play & Stay
Favorite Pet Training & Services
The Pet Connection
Favorite Pet Emergency Room
BluePearl Pet Hospital
WHAT TO LOOK FOR When Looking for Child Care
Trusting others with your child is difcult. And these days, fnding child care seems nearly impossible. We accept that caregivers might not do things exactly as we would. But deciphering what matters most can be overwhelming.
Hiring someone to care for your child can look like a singular caregiver watching them inside or outside of your home, a state-certifed facility with a whole staf of caregivers, or anything in between! Regardless of which kind of child care you choose, you should always meet with a prospective caregiver or tour a facility before entrusting others with your child.
When looking for child care, there are a few important considerations: availability, safety, cleanliness and cost are the immediate details most parents look at. But there are also policies, ratios and other important factors.
Here are factors parents should critically consider when weighing their child care options.
SAFETY
When parents are searching for someone to entrust with their child, safety is usually a primary consideration. It’s important to learn about facility access and security, the outdoor environment (playgrounds, sidewalks, etc.) and childproofng measures.
Child care facilities should have clearances, certifcations and other documentation readily available for prospective families to view. Parents should also verify that the staf have necessary and up-to-date qualifcations, clearances and emergency preparedness training.
Questions to ask about child care safety:
• What safety measures do you use at drop-of and pickup?
• Can I see your door locks or childproofng measures?
• What are your emergency procedures for an intruder, fre, tornado, etc.?
CLEANLINESS
Sanitation goes hand-in-hand with safety. Verify that the facilities, staf or caregivers demonstrate good hygiene and cleanliness. Inquire how ofen the facility is deepcleaned or sanitized. You can even ask what procedures are in place for children around meals or bathroom visits.
Some questions to ask about child care cleanliness:
• How ofen do you sanitize toys and high-touch zones?
• Do you wash carpets and foors regularly?
• How ofen do children wash their hands during the day?
STAFFING
When touring a prospective child care facility, observe how the staf and children interact. It’s important to ensure that there are enough staf to properly care for the number of children present. If you choose to go with a babysitter or nanny, allow plenty of time to watch how they interact with your child while you’re present.
Questions to ask about child care stafng:
• Are you/is your staf CPR certifed?
• What is your retention/turnover like?
• What kind of background checks or clearances do the staf have?
COST
Cost is another important factor. However, many parents also consider what’s included in the cost. For example, a facility that costs less than competitors may not provide meals. Tis would create an additional cost (as well as time commitment and stressor) for you.
Questions to ask about child care costs:
• What is included in the cost?
• What happens if we are late to pay?
• Are there any additional fees (for supplies or meals, for example) in addition to the base cost?
ACTIVITIES OR CURRICULUM
Look for developmentally appropriate toys, activities and structures. Check to see if children play outside, and for how long. If certain styles of teaching (such as Montessori, religious integration, etc.) are important to you, inquire about those. You may also want ask how staf meets the needs of diverse learners.
If you opt for a single caregiver, fnd out if your babysitter is willing and able to take your child to diferent activities. See if the caregiver can provide a list of crafs or activities or if he/she is willing to implement a list you create.
Questions to ask about child care curriculum and activities:
• How much do the children go outside?
• Do they have opportunities for independent play?
• Can you share some activities you do to encourage motor skills, speech development, critical thinking, etc.?
POLICIES
Policies encompass discipline, sickness, attendance, communication and more. You will want to make special note of the policies relating to discipline and attendance. For example, if your child misbehaves, should you expect a call or a detailed written note? Will the school inform you at all? Find out if and when you’ll be notifed should there be a safety or discipline incident.
Questions to ask about child care policies:
• What is your vacation or attendance policy?
• At what point do you call a parent about behavioral issues?
• How do teachers communicate with parents?
Entrusting others with your little one can be scary. Hopefully these questions will help guide you in fnding the best care for your child!
Kailyn Rhinehart writes from Warrensburg, Mo., where she lives with her husband and two small children.
WAYS TO SERVE YOUR COMMUNITY
Sometimes volunteering can seem like a daunting task—make it smaller and form those relationships.
Becoming a parent is so much more than simply bringing a child into your home. We’re in charge of teaching our children everything from how to tie their shoes to how to ride a bike. We’re also responsible for teaching them the importance of serving others. Children (and humans in general) are naturally selfcentered; serving gives us all the opportunity to look past ourselves and develop compassion and empathy for others.
There are a couple approaches to choosing a service opportunity: you can research or ask around about existing opportunities in your community, or you can use your family’s interests and talents to serve in ways your enjoy. You can serve together as a family, or serve in a variety of ways to use different family members’ talents.
The first option teaches our children that we help when and where our community is in need, whether it’s enjoyable or not. This could mean collecting litter, picking up after a storm, or cleaning out dog kennels at the local shelter. The second option teaches our children to use their talents to make a positive impact on others. This could mean creating a flyer for a charity, making meals for neighbors in need, baking cookies for the fire department, or drawing pictures to send to nursing home residents.
If you’d like to serve your community more, here are seven ways you can do so.
Food bank
Your local food bank is a great place to volunteer as a family either at the actual location or out in the community. Harvesters Community Food Network lists a variety of volunteer opportunities on their website. You can host a food or fund drive either in-person or virtually, donate their most-needed food items, or even give bounty from your own garden. You can also become a Barrel Buddy by adopting a grocery store donation barrel and bringing those donations in. You can help pack lunch sacks that are available for families, children and seniors, as well as for disaster relief response efforts. You can pack holiday boxes, pack healthy family meal kits, or make cards for seniors that are included in Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) boxes. Serving at the food bank can
be a great way to teach our children gratitude and show them lives outside their own bubbles.
Animals
If your family loves animals or your children desperately want a family pet but it’s not in the cards, serving at your local animal shelter can be a great way to scratch that itch. The Humane Society of Greater Kansas City needs volunteers to walk dogs, socialize scared kittens, clean, organize, perform administrative tasks and do facility projects like painting and gardening. You could also host a fundraiser to purchase items from the organization’s Amazon wish list. If your home is petfriendly, consider fostering a shelter animal to give them a better chance to be adopted while freeing up more space for another animal in need. Plus, the Humane Society provides all supplies and medical care to foster families.
Schools
Our community’s schools need all the help they can get. Schools usually ask parents if they can volunteer when they register their kids. Especially if you work full time and your kids are in a variety of activities, it may be a default no for you. But slow down and see if there are ways to serve your school in ways that make sense for you and your family.
Maybe running a booth at the school fair is doable; plus, it’s something you can do as a family while mingling with other parents and students. You could host a book fundraiser for your teacher’s classroom or the school library. You could ask if any teachers need help arranging or preparing their rooms over the summer. For example, this summer, my older two children helped some fifth grade teachers by putting down all the desks and arranging them in their classrooms.
All three of my children are in school, and personally, having served two years on the PTO, volunteering as a room parent, and substitute teaching, I can tell you that there’s always something your family can do to serve your school. Some great places to start are to attend
PTO meetings or sign up as a room parent to make sure your child’s teacher is properly supported.
Parks and rec
If your family enjoys community events, try volunteering with your local parks and recreation department. Volunteers are needed for local 5K races, holiday events, and therapeutic programs for individuals with disabilities, as well sports leagues. If your child is going to play a sport through your rec center and you have some knowledge or experience, volunteering to coach is a great way to serve other families in your community. Even offering to be a co-coach is helpful—this might entail herding players or handling administrative tasks like sending emails or making a snack sign-up.
Picking up litter
One of the first ways our family served our community was to go on litter walks—we just took a few bags and picked up trash on a walk we would normally take anyway. This is a simple way to serve at times when it’s convenient for you. It’s even strollerfriendly for those with little ones. Have everyone wear disposable gloves; remind everyone that only adults can pick up liquids, gas, and any other questionable items. You can even take before and after pictures to show your
kids the difference they made in their own neighborhood. Then see how many different areas you can serve with continued litter walks.
Our children are older now and have to accrue service hours for school clubs and to meet high school graduation requirements. After I saw the opportunity advertised in our town newsletter, our family adopted a street where we’re responsible for picking up litter. The first time took a couple hours and was a great opportunity for our kids to notice the most commonly discarded items and how terrible litter makes our community look. The second time took half as long, which taught our children that the more often you pick up, the less litter accumulates and the nicer our street looks. It may not be the most fun activity, but a little humility never hurt our kids.
RAKs
Random Acts of Kindness (RAKs) are a fun way to serve our communities. For example, your family could return all the abandoned carts in a grocery store parking lot; bring treats to your local police and fire stations; bring favorite drinks to your children’s teachers; or help neighbors with yard work. These are all ways to bring joy to our communities as we help each other out. See if your kids can come up with their own ideas, then look online for more. You can then set aside a day or
weekend to do as many RAKs as you can, or do one RAK every weekend to boost positivity in your community.
Ice Cream Socials
Another fun way to serve your community is to focus on your own neighborhood by hosting an ice cream social in your driveway. Sometimes volunteering can seem like a daunting task—make it smaller and form those relationships. Put up signs, hand out flyers, text your neighbors, then hand out ice cream cones or popsicles and spend some time with your community. We have hosted ice cream socials in the past three states we have lived in. It’s always a fun way to spend our time, and we’re always left wishing we’d done it more often. It doesn’t have to be fancy, either. We set out a card table, a tub of ice cream, cones or bowls, and lawn chairs. Tip: If you’re new to the neighborhood or your neighborhood hasn’t done an event like this before, plant some friends in your driveway. People are
usually afraid of being the first ones or the only ones to show up an event, so if they see people already chatting and having fun, they’re more likely to join.
Finally, local churches or charities are a great resource to find existing service opportunities. And if your family is in an especially busy season, financial service is always appreciated. You can involve your children by having them send a card with your family’s contribution. This teaches them that we can help our community in a variety of ways, including sharing our family’s resources. In the future, my husband and I plan to have our children pick a charity that matters to them and do a presentation to the family on why we should give money toward the organization of their choice.
Stephanie Loux is the mother of Layla (14), Mason (12) and Slade (9). Their family has helped serve their communities in a variety of ways.
Baking for Fun
This book from Food Network Magazine has some truly winsome recipes that we love! If you’re looking for new, fun baking ideas (whether for yourself or to gift to others), you’ll fnd delicious recipes inside Baking for Fun. From simple, snackable sweets, to wowworthy creations, to new twists on favorites like CoffeeToffee Chocolate Chip Cookies (yum!) you’ll fnd it here! Amazon.com
Merritt Travel Crib Playard
This terrific playard is designed for convenience and travel and folds with one hand in under 10 seconds. It’s perfect for moving around the house, taking to grandma’s or even setting up outside if you want to give your baby a safe place to play (perhaps during fall yardwork)! Also, it folds into a backpack for storage! We’ve loved it! GladlyFamily.com
5THINGS WE RIGHT NOW
Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza
Get ready to giggle! We simply cannot play this game without loads of laughter—often because I cannot quickly discern between a narwhal and a gorilla! IYKYK and if you don’t know, you should step outside your comfort zone and snag this game. I’m thinking of carrying it in my purse for the times I have a little wait and need to keep the kids occupied. DolphinHat.com
LOVE
Compiled by Lauri Clapper
Carbon8
Quartet Desk Items
I recently reorganized my desk space, and two items by Quartet have proved incredibly helpful. The Adjustable Height Monitor Riser with Dry-Erase Board helped me get some space back and provides a place to write myself notes that will stay in front of me. The desktop Dry-Erase Easel started at my desk but has migrated to the kitchen and become central for family notes. Each a truly big win! Quartet.com
I don’t know what it is about bubbles, but my family loves them! We have found the crispest, cleanest sparkling water straight from the spout with Carbon8. I was wooed by the self-sanitizing aspect (a chlorine flter and UV light) and appreciate the lack of interaction with anything plastic. Plus, I value the remineralization that gives me better quality and better tasting water. Carbon8Water.com
LIFE SKILLS EVERY CHILD NEEDS
“Life Skills Every Child Needs” is a seven-part series to help you raise happy and successful kids. Based on the book Mind in the Making by Ellen Galinsky, the series condenses years of research in children’s brain development and learning for your action as a parent or caregiver. Find more profoundly helpful resources at MindInTheMaking.org.
Happy and Successful Kids Life Skill 2: PERSPECTIVE TAKING
One of the most important skills we can teach our children is to see another person’s point of view. If we’re honest, we’ll acknowledge it’s difcult for us grown-ups to do that very thing. It’s hard trying to imagine what another person is thinking or feeling. It’s not always pleasant to give another person what they want or need. How do we respond when we disagree?
Children who learn to respect another’s perspective and who choose to honor another person’s desires will be healthier, happier and more successful in life. Learning when and how to move beyond their own welfare and reach out to another person with understanding is an attainable goal for young children.
When we teach life skills, we’re teaching children to take charge of their own behaviors and attitudes. We’re giving them tools to use as they learn and grow and develop their unique personalities in our complex world. How will they cope with life choices, relationships and challenges?
Here’s some good news for parents! Tere are simple everyday activities to add to daily routines that will build these important skills. Let’s take a closer look at perspective taking.
Perspective taking is more than empathy—feeling sorry for another person. It’s also about fguring out how others think and feel. Children learn to understand the intent of others’ actions and this ofen avoids confict.
All of us prefer to spend time with people who are tuned in to our point of view. We tend to avoid those who are critical or highly competitive. We want to be with those who understand us. Children who can go beyond their own needs and care about the needs
and problems of others will be more successful in both learning and building friendships. Tis is called “understanding the other.”
How to Promote Perspective Taking
By being intentional in developing perspective taking in your children, you’ll give them many opportunities to recognize and practice the skill of understanding others’ needs. You’ll give them alternative behaviors to use when a potentially problematic situation arises. You may fnd that returning to an earlier problem and talking it through afer the fact is more benefcial than trying to teach the skill in “the heat of the moment.” Children who feel safe and accepted are more able to enter into problem-solving discussions than those who feel harshly judged and “wrong or bad.” It’s good to remember that feelings are not wrong in and of themselves, but it’s the way we act on them that can cause confict.
Here are some ways to enter into conversation with your child to build the skill of perspective taking.
• Ask leading questions such as “What could that person be thinking? Feeling?”
• Practice problem-solving in steps. What is the problem? What do we want? What can we do? And did we succeed? You might want to make a simple chart to use when walking through a real-life confict.
• Model language that leads to a resolution, not more confict. For example you might say, “You’re upset. Maybe you need some quiet time.”
• Listen to your child’s ideas and reassure them of unconditional love.
• Use everyday experiences to talk about other people’s perspectives. “What is that character thinking?” “How does it feel when a friend takes your toy?”
• Encourage pretend play. Acting out various characters’ words and actions is a healthy way to explore other perspectives.
• When you observe conficts, take the opportunity to talk about the problem. “Why do you think Jimmy got angry with his friend?” or “What else could he have done?”
Putting ourselves in another person’s shoes isn’t easy. And it’s possible to make mistakes. We may fail to take another person’s background, training and life experience into account when judging their behaviors and beliefs. We may fnd that we’ll never “click” with another’s way of living or their perspective on life, but choose to respect them anyway. Perspective taking helps children make sense of their world. It helps them understand other people’s thoughts and behaviors and predict what might happen in a given situation. Children who learn this skill adjust better in both learning and social situations and are better prepared to make their way through life with kindness and understanding.
Jan Pierce, M.Ed., is a retired teacher and the author of Homegrown Readers and Homegrown Family Fun. Find Jan at JanPierce.net.
DIY Planet Costumes
At first, when my planet-obsessed children told me daily for several months that they wanted to be planets for Halloween, I tried to shop online for costumes—only to find nothing great! This DIY planet costume will take some time, so plan to break it up over the course of a few days (or nights). Plus, there are many opportunities to get your children involved in the creative process! Not to mention the ooohs and aaahs to come!
SUPPLIES:
• Extra-large balloons (check Amazon, Walmart or a party supply store)
• Large pile of old magazines or newspapers
• 1 gallon of glue
• Salt
• Large bowl and spoon
• Heavy-duty string or yarn
• Ladder (or somewhere to hang the planets while you work)
• Hangers and clothes pins
• Scissors
• Drop cloth, old newspapers or cardboard to protect your work area
• Gorilla Tape
• White spray paint
• Paint and paint brush or paint sponge
• Optional: cardboard and aluminum foil (if your planet is one of the gas planets and has rings [Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus and Neptune])
DIRECTIONS:
Step one: Rip newspaper or magazines into long strips (this is a great step for your children to help with). Set aside in a large tote or bowl.
Step two: Inflate the balloons. You will want to measure the balloon against the child who will wear the costume (a small child will need a smaller balloon; a large child will need a bigger one.)
Step three: Tie a long string or piece of yarn to the end of the inflated balloon and tie it onto the bottom part of a ladder to hang while you work. I clipped clothes pins onto the yarn to help hold the balloons down while I was working.
Step four: Put down a drop cloth, then make the paper mache mixture: Pour glue into a large plastic bowl, add in a pinch of salt (optional, but helps prevent mold), then slowly add in water as you stir. Add water until you get a pancake batter consistency (roughly a 1:1 ratio of glue to water).
Step five: Dip sections of newspaper into your bowl, then wrap your balloon in the paper mache. Leave a small, open section at the top of the balloon where the tie is. (I had to use my knee to help hold the balloon in place while I was working.) Allow to completely dry overnight, then repeat for a total of 2 layers of newspaper.
Step six: Once your paper mache balloon is completely dry (I waited a few days), use the Gorilla Tape to tape over the outside of the paper mache. Then slowly cut the balloon to deflate and remove the balloon. Don’t rush this step! The balloon should easily come out if the paper mache is dry. The project will fall if you remove the balloon too soon.
Step seven: Once you deflate the balloon, cut out the head hole at the top of the sphere and the body hole at the bottom. Have have your child try on the planet so you can find the best spots to cut the arm holes. Once the holes are cut, go back over the edges of the openings with tape.
Step eight: Spray paint the planet white and hang to dry overnight (a white surface will show the true paint colors better than the black tape). We used clothing hangers to let our planets dry in the garage. Don’t forget to put down a drop cloth to prevent a mess!
Step nine: Once your planet is dry, it’s time to paint it. Using pictures of the planets for reference, we first painted the planets a solid color, then used a sponge to paint the planet design. Hang to dry overnight over your drop cloth.
Step ten: If your planet has rings, take a piece of string or yarn to measure out your rings. We simply wrapped yarn around the planets and used that as a guide to cut out cardboard. We guessed on the sizing, then tried the rings onto the planets and cut them down little by little until we got the right fit. We covered the rings with aluminum foil and then set onto the planets. (Don’t forget if you are making Uranus, which rotates on its side, the rings are also tilted so they’re vertical rather than horizontal.)
Step eleven: Once your planet is completely dry, add your rings (if needed), then you are ready to go! My children chose to wear a black layer (like the night sky) and carry white buckets to represent the moon!
Step twelve: Be prepared to be asked 100 times how to make these costumes. Also be prepared for complete strangers to ask if they can take a photo of your children!
PRO TIP: Get the whole family involved and become the whole solar system! If someone does not want to dress up in a planet costume, they can easily wear a planet T-shirt (check Amazon) or be a simple shooting star!
Janelle Cumro-Sultzer lives in Manhattan, Kansas with her husband, three children (1, 3 and 5) and two senior dogs. Janelle is a homeschooling mom who enjoys writing in her spare time. Janelle loves to focus on learning through play and getting messy with crafts.
Fa l Fun! GUIDE
TABLE OF CONTENTS
39 tasty treats
40 fall outdoor activities
42 fall traditions
43 scavenger hunt
44 classic fall fun
46 pumpkin patch spotlight
47 pumpkin patch tips
48 fall foliage
49 13 spooky ideas
50 spooky sweet treats
51 october festivals
Ghost S’moes Recipe
This s’mores-inspired dip is the perfect dessert to throw together for a last-minute Halloween bash. Simply combine chocolate chips and heavy cream in a skillet, and top with ghost-shaped marshmallows. To ensure the pre-made ghost faces won’t disappear in the oven, add mini chocolate chips over the eyes and mouth. Bake until your chocolate center is melty and delicious, and your ghosts are a toasty golden-brown. In just 15 minutes, you’ll have a melty, chocolatey, dreamy s’mores dip that is downright scary good. Graham crackers make for perfect dippers, but sliced apple, pretzels or potato chips would certainly do the trick.
Yields: 8–10 servings
Prep Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Ingredients
• 1 bag ghost marshmallows (or 4 packages ghost Peeps)
• 2 c. semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/4 c. heavy cream, warmed
• Graham crackers (for serving)
• Mini chocolate chips (for ghost eyes)
Directions
1. Preheat oven to 450°. In the bottom of a 9” oven-proof skillet, baking dish or pie dish, spread out chocolate chips and pour cream on top. Cover completely with a single layer of ghost marshmallows.
2. Place mini chocolate chips over eyes and mouth. (The already-drawn faces will fade in the oven.)
3. Bake until the chocolate has melted and the ghosts are golden, 8 to 10 minutes.
4. Serve warm with graham crackers for dipping.
TIP: To reheat, return to a 450° oven until melty, 3 to 5 minutes.
Outdoo Activities fo Fal
Light the apple blossom candles. Crack open that can of pumpkin puree. Pull on your jeans. Cozy up with a movie and blanket. The temperatures have dropped from triple digits and fall is here! Get ready to go outside (or stay inside!) and enjoy all that fall has to offer!
You have a whole unscheduled weekend to fill with familyfriendly fun. Where should you start? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with all things fall for the whole fam!
OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
Pumpkin Patches and Corn Mazes
Cliche? Maybe. Loads of fun? Absolutely! Grab those pumpkins and some great photo ops. Pumpkin patches are great for all ages. Kids can explore, experience nature and enjoy some festive activities. Many patches even have farm animals or playgrounds. Parents can stroll around with a cup of apple cider and watch their kids light up with fall fun!
Need some local spots? We’ve got you.
Pumpkin Patches and Corn Mazes in the Kansas City area:
• Carolyn’s Pumpkin Patch
• Louisburg Cider Mill
• KC Pumpkin Patch
• Johnson Farms Plants & Pumpkins
Apple Picking
Nothing says childhood and fall quite like apple picking. Once you’ve had fun hunting for the juiciest apples on the tree, take those beauties home and have your child help you make some treats. Before you go apple picking, you can even make themed crafs or projects to set the mood!
Apple Picking in the Kansas City area:
• Cider Hill Family Orchard
• Gieringers Family Orchard & Berry Farm
Nature Walks and Hikes
Enjoy the nice weather by hitting the trails . . . or maybe just the sidewalks in your neighborhood. Either way, many are ready to head outside again. Te cooler weather and vibrant scenery are irresistible. Have your children collect diferent colored leaves and turn them into a craf back at home!
Farm Visits
While most pumpkin patches have petting zoos or animals, you can just head to the farm if that’s not enough! One popular, and perfect, fall stop is Deanna Rose Farmstead.
At Deanna Rose children can ride on a hayride pulled by two valiant steeds, pet and feed baby goats, mine for gold, and see
all that this hands-on farm has to ofer! For only $5 admission (children two and under are free!), Deanna Rose Farmstead ofers so much for your children to explore.
INDOOR FUN
Maybe the heat hasn’t quite retreated in your area, or you have a brand-new baby to keep contained. You want to enjoy some fall fun, but inside. Tere’s still plenty to do!
Fall Festivals and Events
Rodeos, festivals, carnivals and more! Fall isn’t just for pumpkins or apple picking. With the cooler temperatures, many fock to outdoor events. But there’s plenty to do inside as well! Festivals and events are popular in the cooler months.
For a list of local fall festivals and events, see our listing on page 51 or visit KCParent.com.
Themed Crafts & Story Time
Maybe the big kids are back in school but you’re still looking for some fun with your toddlers. Spend a day inside soaking in some memorable fall experiences!
Check out your local library for some themed story times or crafs. Or pore over Pinterest for some apple or pumpkin activities. Light those fall-scented candles, hit up the dollar store for supplies, and have yourself a craf-er-noon at home with your kiddos.
Seasonal Treats & Activities
Te most delicious part of fall is the treats! Pumpkin pie, apple cobbler, cinnamon mufns . . . yum! Fall baking and seasonal treats are a great way to have your littles help you in the kitchen. Plus, there are many developmental benefts to letting kids help with household tasks. Depending on your child’s age, they can pour in ingredients, mix the batter or even just watch through the oven door as your treats bake!
Pumpkin Carving
It’s a rite of passage for children to scoop out pumpkin guts—or at least participate while you do it for them! Either way, pumpkin carving can make for a great afernoon indoors. Make sure to display your jack-o’-lanterns on your front porch, then head back outside once it’s dark so your children can see their creations!
So get out some pens and paper. Make your fall bucket list, baking list, or brainstorm with your kids all the places you’d like to go.
Kailyn Rhinehart writes from Warrensburg, Mo., where she lives with her family and two small children.
Fal Traditions
I’ve always loved the changing of seasons—I love the traditions and rhythms that come along with it. And the transition to fall is one of my favorites. Growing up, I loved the season of heading back to school. Since my birthday is in the fall, it was always a special time for me. Now, as a mother, I also appreciate the seasonal shifs for all the things they change: weather, home décor, family meals, schedules and routines, sports, and family traditions.
Family traditions are important for memory making and spending quality time together. Tey foster a sense of belonging and security so our families know what to expect when the seasons change. Tey also give families something to look forward to together. Traditions can be created together or passed down from previous generations; elaborate or simple; common to many families or unique to just yours.
Growing up, my grandparents had a few apple trees that we would help harvest, then we’d make apple cider with my grandfather’s antique cider press. Over the years, I’ve been able to take my own
kids to make cider a few times. When my kids were younger, we also loved attending the annual Ciderfest at the Louisburg Cider Mill. Tere’s nothing better than fresh cider! Johnson Farms also has apple picking before pumpkin season. Making apple pie, apple crisp and apple pancakes is a great way to lean into the favors of the new season.
Pumpkin patches are another fun fall family tradition. You can head back to Johnson Farms or try out the KC Pumpkin Patch or Carolyn’s Pumpkin Patch. You can even start a simpler tradition of picking out pumpkins at the grocery store and taking them home to carve and roast the seeds (another tasty tradition!). I also like to buy one or two smaller pie pumpkins to roast, then make some delicious pumpkin chocolate chip mufns and pumpkin pancakes. Roasting homemade Chex Mix in the oven is another fall family tradition that makes me feel like it’s ofcially fall.
If you’re a sports family, fall means football! Maybe you’re devoted Chiefs fans who make special snacks and watch every game together or with friends. Even if
you’re not huge sports fans, it could be fun to make a new fall memory by attending a local high school football game together.
Speaking of snacks, fall ofen means cooler weather—which means soup season! Soup Sunday could be another tradition and an easy addition to your meal schedule. Ask your family about their favorite cool-weather foods and start meal planning. Add in some seasonal produce like apples, pears, squash, spouts, beets, kale, caulifower and more. Maybe it’s a tradition to head to the Overland Park Farmers Market or Te City Market Farmers Market and stock up before they close for the season.
Community events such as Pumpkin Hollow or Night of the Living Farm at Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead can become fall traditions for your family too. If your kids are aging out of the farmstead, maybe you transition to a haunted house, Worlds of Fun’s Tricks and Treats, or their Halloween Haunt.
Another simple, tried-and-true fall tradition is raking the leaves into piles for your children to jump in. One of my
favorite childhood memories is spending an afernoon making huge piles with all the neighbor kids. Childhood is short, so let your kids have fun with the simple joys! Also, making fall crafs out of leaves is a fun way to add fall decorations to your home. Seeing their own artwork on the fridge, front door or wall helps kids feel proud of themselves and leads to more creativity.
Speaking of outside, enjoying the change of seasons out in nature is another lovely tradition. Plan a park-hop Saturday to visit some favorite or new parks—you might try Black Hoof Park in Lenexa for some fun outdoor play, or head to Shawnee Mission Park to enjoy the beautiful fall weather and changing leaves.
Seasonal changes let us recalibrate and reset for the months ahead. Take time as a family to observe the change in scenery, and use your senses to appreciate this beautiful life we get to live.
Stephanie Loux is the mother of Layla (14), Mason (12) and Slade (9), and wishes fall lasted a little longer.
FALL FUN SCAVENGER HUNT
As you embark on autumn adventures with your kids, try to find one item on this list each day in October!
Jack-o’-lantern
Scarecrow
Squirrel
Orange twinkly lights
Skeleton
Red leaves
Orange leaves
Brown leaves
Apple tree
Spider web
Purple twinkly lights
Bat
Black cat
Candy corn
Full moon
Pumpkin patch
Corn maze
Trick or treat
CLASSIC FALL FUN IN KC
It’s football season, sweater weather, and time for memory making.
VISIT A CIDER MILL
A favorite autumn day trip is visiting Louisburg Cider Mill . The classic red cider mill barn is a perfect backdrop for fall photos, and the entire outing is a memorable fall tradition. Visitors can watch fresh cider being made from scratch daily—you’ll see the apples being washed, pressed, and processed, and finally bottled and made available for purchase. Inside the gift shop, visitors can see fresh apple cider donuts being made—be sure to enjoy a warm one before you leave! The mill is also home to one of our favorite pumpkin patches and play areas for children.
Historic Weston Orchard & Vineyard is one of the region’s most beautiful places to enjoy apple picking, and they also process cider on-site. A hayride carries visitors to the orchard and pumpkin patch. The orchard features 7,000 trees on 15 acres with 12 varieties of apples. The dwarf trees make picking easy for all ages. In addition to apple picking, families enjoy play areas, apple cannons, fun photo ops and delicious goodies. Adults will enjoy the signature wines, wine slushes and hard ciders.
PUMPKIN PATCHES, CORN MAZES & HAY RIDES
With pumpkin cannons, pony rides, pumpkin-chomping dinosaurs, creative play areas, jumping pillows, corn cribs, train rides, corn mazes, zip lines, forts, petting zoos, tipis, inflatables and, of course, hayrides to pick the perfect pumpkin, a visit to the local pumpkin patch is a fall bucket list must!
Carolyn’s Pumpkin Patch, one of the region’s largest patches, offers a wide variety of play areas and live entertainment, including an inflatable jack-o’-lantern bouncer where kids can enjoy jumping and playing. The train ride, carousel ride, pedal karts, giant slides and pumpkin cannons are favorites for all ages.
Johnson Farms Plants and Pumpkins is one of our favorite local pumpkin patches. They offer many terrific play areas along with a petting zoo, corn maze and u-pick vegetable patch. In addition to their family-friendly fall attractions, they have a beautiful sunflower field with a variety of colors!
To choose the perfect patch, use our KC Pumpkin Patch Guide on KCParent.com!
FALL FAMILY CAMPING
Autumn is a great time to enjoy a weekend campout with the kids. Pack a tent and make it an overnight adventure, or reserve a site for 24 hours and enjoy a nearby campground for a day of hiking and cooking over an open fire.
These are some of the most scenic and family-friendly sites for making memories with kids.
Lake Jacomo, located in Fleming Park in Lee’s Summit, is a great place to camp and enjoy a variety of activities. Fleming Park is home to the Native Hooved Animal Enclosure, where you can see elk and bison; the Missouri Town Living History Museum, a historic village; an RC flying field where you can watch hobbyists fly remotecontrolled aircraft or fly your own (with permit); and numerous hiking and paved bike trails.
Watkins Mill State Park is one of the most scenic campgrounds in the region. The park also offers biking, hiking and equestrian trails (bring your own ride). A visit to the park is not complete without a tour of the Watkins Woolen Mill Historic Site. The site tells the story of 19thcentury life on the Missouri frontier. Watkins Mill is the only 19th-century textile mill in the United States with its original machinery still intact.
Weston Bend State Park is one of our favorite fall day trip destinations. The state park is one of the prettiest places to view the Missouri River and includes an accessible scenic overlook. The paved bike trail explores the wooded terrain and stops by the old tobacco barn and picnic shelters. Be sure to visit the Historic Weston Orchard on your visit.
Lake Perry is a scenic campground with electric and primitive tent sites. They also offer four rental cabins. The campground offers 15 miles of mountain bike trails, 25 miles of horse trails and a 1-mile nature trail.
For more great sites, be sure to visit MoStateParks.com and KSOutdoors.com/State-Parks. Many state parks offer cabins, yurts and lodges for those looking to enjoy the outdoors without the work of a tent or RV.
GROWN-UP ADVENTURE AT A LOCAL WINERY
Local wines become more popular every year, and both Kansas and Missouri are home to dozens of vineyards and wineries. Many of these wineries are within an hour’s drive of Kansas City, making them a great day trip for tasting the best of the local harvest.
These are a few of our favorites; find a complete guide to KC Wineries on KCParent.com.
Jowler Creek Vineyard & Winery uses green technologies such as solar power to make wine on their 6-acre sustainable vineyard. Throughout the year they host live concerts, wine tours, craft classes and holiday events, as well as an Annual Grape Stomp in September. JowlerCreek.com
Pirtle Winery is a family-owned and -operated winery that has been serving award-winning wines since 1978. The scenic Weston location is especially popular in the fall. Throughout the year, the winery participates in Weston’s seasonal festivals and offers cork and canvas classes and more. PirtleWinery.com
Peculiar Winery is a local winery offering wood-fired pizzas and special events throughout the year including painting classes, live music, food trucks, murder mystery dinners and more. PeculiarWinery.com
Pome on the Range, under the same ownership as Louisburg Cider Mill, is a beautiful orchard in Miami County, Kansas. Enjoy the u-pick apple orchard, corn maze, cider donuts, wines, cider, pies and other home goods. PomeOnTheRange.com
Serendipity Farm and Vine, located in Stilwell, offers coffee many mornings as well as a tasting room, special events, winery, event venue and getaway destination. It’s family friendly until 5pm. SerendipityFarmAndVine.com
Belvoir Winery is housed in a building originally constructed as a children’s home in 1900. They serve locally-produced wines and host murder mystery dinners, live concerts, Sip & Shops and other events. BelvoirWinery.com
Stone Pillar Vineyard & Winery, opened in 2010, specializes in hand-picked Kansas wines. Enjoy a grape stomp and harvest in the fall, live concerts, wine dinners and more. StonePillarVineyard.com
Kristina Light writes about local family fun on KCParent.com year-round.
kc pumpkin spotlight
Carolyn’s Pumpkin Patch
Looking for a fabulous fall adventure? Carolyn’s Pumpkin Patch is a must-visit fall destination! Enjoy dozens of attractions, including the historic country carousel, Little Bud’s Railroad, the petting barn, the Pumpkinator pumpkin cannon, the Mega Slide and so much more! Enjoy a wagon ride into our u-pick pumpkin field, and savor refreshments including wine slushies, fresh kettle corn and our famous pumpkin donuts! Live entertainment as well as Uncle Lester’s Pig Races add to the fun during weekends! Carolyn’s is open five days a week, Thursday through Monday, Sept. 21–Oct. 31. Save when you purchase tickets online in advance. CarolynsPumpkinPatch.com
Johnson Farms
Johnson Farms is a real farm in the country, yet close to your home. Ride a wagon out to the u-pick pumpkin patch or apple orchard. The u-pick veggie patch and u-cut sunflower and zinnia field are nearby. Experience our giant jumping pillows, giant tunnel maze, authentic fire truck, barnyard arcade and animal corral. Pay one admission to enjoy the farm; pay extra for anything you harvest, snack on or seasonal items in our retail store. Discount pricing available online. JohnsonFarms.net
Louisburg Cider Mill
Watch as fresh cider is pressed in our 120-year-old barn and enjoy the delicious cider donuts! Live music every weekend, with extended hours every Friday and Saturday. Explore our 10-acre corn maze; hunt for the perfect pumpkin; enjoy a wagon ride, farm animals, children’s play area and jump pillow; and slide down Sunflower Hill. A trip is not complete without visiting the Country Store and the Lost Trail Soda trailer! Check for amenities and special events online. LouisburgCiderMill.com
KC Parent is giving away 100+ tickets to your favorite fall attractions including pumpkin patches! Enter to win the Fall Fun Giveaway on KCParent.com!
7 TIPS
FOR A VISIT TO THE PUMPKIN PATCH
Local pumpkin patches are open for the season mid-September through Halloween.
1. Dress for the weather. Remember sunscreen, bug spray and appropriate layers. Later in the season, it may be chilly early or late in the day but may warm up as the sun shines in the afternoon.
2. Wear comfy shoes for playing on a farm. Tennis shoes, rubber boots or farm boots work well.
3. Plan to spend a half to a full day. Weekdays are less crowded and more relaxed, making this the ideal time to visit with young children. Weekends are bustling and can be an extra special time to visit with friends and relatives. Bring grandparents along for the fun!
4. Check the patch’s calendar of activities featured in our Pumpkin Patch Guide for special events they may be hosting throughout the season, including live entertainment, special festivals or holiday-themed events for Grandparents’ Day, teacher appreciation, Halloween and more.
5. Buy some goodies to enjoy at home! Cider donuts, pumpkin donuts and kettle corn are all great snacks to enjoy with a relaxing movie after a day at the patch.
6. Decide in advance whether you want to choose one big pumpkin for the family or a small one for each child. Having a plan can save a lot of stress when everyone is drawn to their choice of a perfect pumpkin.
7. Take lots of pumpkin photos!
FALL FOLIAGE
Pack a picnic, take a hike and enjoy the fall foliage at one of these local sites.
Burr Oak Woods Conservation Center (Blue Springs): In addition to a beautiful nature center with hands-on exhibits, the area is home to miles of beautiful trails for walking or bicycling.
Cave Spring Nature Center (Kansas City, Mo.): This small nature center has historical exhibits and beautiful scenic walking trails.
Ernie Miller Nature Center (Olathe): This center offers children’s activities and programs, live animal displays and the chance to participate in hands-on activities and explore nature trails.
George Owens Nature Park (Independence): Enjoy a small nature center, programs for children, a fishing dock and trails.
Kill Creek Park (Olathe): The 897-acre park features a lake, miles of hiking, mountain bike and equestrian trails, and also includes paved trails. The highlight of the park is the Russell and Helen Means Observation Tower offering beautiful views of the park and prairie.
Lakeside Nature Center (Kansas City, Mo.): See falcons, owls, eagles, toads and exhibits. The nature center also features a gravel trail for walking and exploring.
Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens (Overland Park): The gardens contain nearly six miles of paved and wood chip hiking trails offering a scenic and peaceful autumn escape for city-dwellers.
Parkville Nature Sanctuary (Parkville): Wildlife preserve and education site featuring hiking trails.
Powell Gardens (Kingsville, Mo.): The beautiful botanical gardens are always magnificent, but the woodland trails are especially beautiful in the fall. Mark your calendar for Dark Forest, offered October 18–19, 24–26, 31; and November 1–2. Presented in partnership with Quixotic, Powell Gardens ushers in fall with Dark Forest, an immersive multimedia walk-through experience in the woods.
Shawnee Mission Park (Shawnee Mission, Kan.): John Barkley Plaza offers parking and a shaded meet-up spot at the entrance. In the park, you’ll find a fishing dock and extensive trails.
13 SPOOKY IDEAS FOR HALLOWEEN
4 Pumpkin Patch
It’s spooky season, which means time for some Halloween fun! Your kids will love these frightfully fun activities. Don’t worry, some are more cutesy than spooky!
1 Fun in the Dark
Nothing is spookier than a little fun in the dark. Give each child a fashlight and let them fnd each other in a game of fashlight tag! You can give them glow-in-the-dark necklaces, bracelets and wands to make it easier.
2
Boo Your Friends
One of our favorite traditions is “booing” our friends and neighbors. We put together cute, Halloween-themed goodie bags with candy, snacks and small toys and leave them at their door in a bag that says, “You’ve been booed!” It’s a fun way to surprise your friends and get in the spirit of the season.
3 Spooky Scavenger Hunt
Create your own scary scavenger hunt. Make a list of spooky items to spot in the decorations around your neighborhood, such as a scarecrow, jack-o-lantern, witch and ghost. You can split up into teams and make it into a race.
Our family loves spending a day at the pumpkin patch. Sip on apple cider, take a hayride and pick out the greatest pumpkin in the patch. When you get home, have a pumpkin carving or painting contest and vote for who has the silliest, scariest and most creative pumpkins.
5
Terrifying Tales
Take turns telling ghost stories or reading scary books around a bonfre with friends and family. Make it s’more fun by making s’mores!
6 Halloween Movie Marathon
Spend a night bingeing all your favorite Halloween movies. If you’re feeling especially festive, make it an outdoor movie night for the neighborhood by streaming the movies onto the garage door with a projector.
7 Worlds of Fun Halloween Haunt
Older kids who love to be terrifed will love Worlds of Fun’s Halloween Haunt! Hundreds of scary creatures take over the park in the evening. Please note, parental discretion is advised for his event.
8 Play Doh and Slime Monsters
Using Play Doh or slime, have the kids create their own monsters using googly eyes, pipe cleaners, Popsicle sticks and pom-poms.
9 Terrifying Treats
Tere are so many fun snacks to make for Halloween. A few of our favorites are spider webs using pretzels and melted white chocolate, dirt and worm cups, mummy pigs in a blanket and Hocus Pocus spellbook brownies.
10 Creative Costumes
Have your kids create their own Halloween costumes. Let their imaginations and creativity take over. Tey can also use face paint or makeup to complete their look. Do a photo shoot once their costumes are complete!
11 Candy Corn Bingo
If your kids aren’t big fans of candy corn, use the candy as pieces in a Halloween bingo game. Print a free Halloween bingo card online or make your own!
12 Mystery Touch-and-Feel Game
Place mystery household items in a covered jar and let the kids guess what’s inside. Caulifower, grapes and cooked spaghetti will feel like brains, eyeballs and guts. Tis is always a favorite for tweens and teens.
13 Candy Wreath
A candy wreath is easy, fun and makes the perfect décor for your door! Simply hot-glue or pin candy boxes and wrappers around a foam wreath until the foam is covered, add a bow with your favorite ribbon and hang on your door.
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.
Sweet and Spooky Treats
No tricks, just treats from Kansas City’s delightful and delectable sweet shops. Try an extra special treat this October.
Annedore’s Smash! Chocolate Pumpkin
Sure to be a huge hit (pun intended) with your family, Annedore’s SMASH! Pumpkin is a giant chocolate pumpkin filled with an assortment of candies. Smash the pumpkin with a small mallet and enjoy the treats inside. The pumpkin is wrapped in clear cellophane and tied with a festive bow. Available for in-store pickup only. You’ll find more treats as well including a chocolate coffin with an edible mummy inside, skeleton bark and more. Locations: Annedores.com
Chip’s Chocolate Factory is a favorite shop at Crown Center and a special treat after watching a show at Coterie or enjoying time at Legoland or Sea Life. Their Halloween selection includes pumpkin, ghost and monster lollipops and special fall-themed fudge flavors, including pumpkin pie. ChipsChocolateFactory.com
Andre’s Skull Chocolate Bâtons
Just one tasty treat in Andre’s fall collection, these solid chocolate sticks (bâtons) are made with Andre’s signature Swiss chocolate and covered with skull designs made from natural food coloring. In addition to these spooky treats, you’ll also find witch’s fingers, chocolate-almond-filled jack o’lanterns and more. Locations: AndresChocolates.com
Spooky Sodas from KC Soda Co.
KC Soda Co. in the River Market is known for their vast collection of sodas in every flavor imaginable. In October, you can find spooky-themed flavors with eerie labeling including Wicked Apple, Dr. Jekyll’s Pepper Elixir and Ghoul’s Grape. KCSoda.com
Sylas and Maddy’s Halloween Ice Cream
Beloved for their homemade ice cream in a wide variety of flavors, Sylas and Maddy’s serves tasty Halloweeninspired flavors in October. These include Rest in Piece, a rich, dark chocolate ice cream with Reese’s Pieces; Monster Mash, featuring five different candy bars swirled throughout sweet cream ice cream; and Betwixed, a sweet cream ice cream with milk-chocolate-covered pretzels and Twix candy bars. Locations: SylasAndMaddysIceCream.com
OCTOBER festival s
ACROSS KANSAS CITY
Fall 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!
GloWild: Legends & Lore Thru Dec. 29, Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium. The popular GloWild lantern festival returns to the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium this fall with a “Legends & Lore” theme and new displays. KansasCityZoo.org
OzToberfest Oct. 4, Wamego, Kan. Enjoy activities including the OZ Costume Contest, Toto Look-Alike Contest, OZ Market, Classic Car Show, Wizard’s Beer & Wine Garden, Auntie Em’s Boutique and many more OZsome activities. VisitWamego.com
KC Oktoberfest Oct. 4–5, Crown Center. A two-day festival at Crown Center celebrating Bavarian-style bier, food and entertainment. It is Kansas City’s largest traditional Oktoberfest. KCOktoberfest.com
Cass County Sheriff’s Rodeo Oct. 4–5, Harrisonville, Mo. Family-friendly event with food trucks, face painting, a 4-H hosted petting zoo, evening rodeo performances and more. CassMOSheriff.org
Greater Japan Festival Oct. 5, Johnson County Community College. Look forward to traditional performances and demonstrations; a Japanese candy artist; traditional food; a shopping bazaar; martial arts; anime and manga, and more. KCJapanFestival.org
Kaw Valley Farm Tour Oct. 5–6, Kaw Valley Farms. Family farms, wineries, and vineyards, alpacas to zucchini, and everything in between. Sample products, participate in special activities or just enjoy the peace in the country. KawValleyFarmTour.org
Lenexa Chili Challenge Oct. 11–12, Old Town Lenexa. This free foodie festival heats up Friday night with music and fireworks. On Saturday, sample chili, hot wings and salsa. Face painters, balloon artists and live music present both days. Little chefs can take part in the Kids Kornbread Contest. Lenexa.com
56th Annual Heritage Festival Oct. 12–13, Arrow Rock Historic Site. Featuring traditional and modern artistic items, living history presenters, musical entertainment and food vendors galore. Admission is free! ArrowRock.org
International Lineman’s Rodeo Oct. 16–19, Overland Park Convention Center. The Lineman’s Rodeo attracts the best linemen from around the world to compete in events based on traditional lineman tasks. LinemansRodeoKC.com
Maple Leaf Festival Oct. 19–20, Baldwin City, Kan. Enjoy craft exhibits, quilt shows, performing arts, music, unique food items and activities for the family—all while helping local nonprofit organizations to raise funds. MapleLeafFestival.com
American Royal World Series of Barbecue® Oct. 31–Nov. 3, Kansas Speedway. The American Royal World Series of Barbecue® is a longstanding tradition in Kansas City. AmericanRoyal.com
KC Oktoberfest
KCPARENT.COM CALENDAR FEATURES OVER 1,000 EVENTS EACH MONTH!
pumpkins
Pick the perfect pumpkin, enjoy a hayride and check out the petting zoo at Carolyn’s Pumpkin Patch, Louisburg Cider Mill, or Johnson Farms. Enjoy the best of autumn with family fun on the farm! KCParent.com
cheer
On Oct. 16, attend the Gold Over America Tour at T-Mobile Center as you cheer on Simone Biles and a squad of America’s best gymnasts. T-MobileCenter.com
spooky
On Oct. 26, enjoy not-so-spooky fun at Spookfest at Science City. Spooky science demos and activities, creepy critters, candy and more await. UnionStation.org
speed
The Thunder Over the Heartland Air Show will perform Oct. 11–13, featuring the USAF Thunderbirds and an amazing lineup of aerial performances. ThunderOver TheHeartland.com
macabre
Coterie once again brings Electric Poe to Union Cemetery (Oct. 17–Nov. 3) as R.H. Wilhoit captivates audiences with the macabre poetry of Edgar Allan Poe. TheCoterie.org
Boo at the Zoo (Oct. 26–27) at the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium
1 Tuesday
Horse Power thru Oct. 6, Coterie Theatre. Tom Bass, a Missourian born in slavery, became the greatest horseman of his time and this charming play tells his story. TheCoterie.org
Discovery Day 10:00, Overland Park Arboretum. Free admission day and make-andtake project. October features nature crowns. OPABG.org
Mini Medical School 3:30, IDEA Space. Immerse your little pre-pre-med student in their frst step toward doctorhood. Learning health and anatomy was never so fun. IdeaSpaceKC.org
National Night Out 5:00, Merriam Community Center. Join the Merriam Police Department for a light dinner, live music, face painting and family fun. Merriam.org
2 Wednesday
GloWild: Legends & Lore thru Dec. 29, Kansas
Giggle Time with Stone Lion Puppet Theatre 10:00, Tomahawk Ridge Community Center. Your little ones will giggle, wiggle and have a blast with a fun puppet show. OPKansas.org
3D Creator 4:30, Blue Valley Activity Center. This class is a great introduction to 3D printing. Students will be introduced to concepts of engineering. Register at KansasCity.ClubSciKidz.com
Family Night 5:00, Lenexa Public Market. Bring the whole gang for free activities like a balloon artist and classic board games. LenexaPublicMarket.com
An Evening With Steven Curtis Chapman 7:00, Folly Theater. Enjoy a live concert with the most awarded artist in Christian music history at KC’s historic theater. FollyTheater.org
Celtic Thunder: Odyssey 7:30, Kaufman Center. Traditional Irish music, contemporary Irish music and innovative original
3 Thursday
Lexington Art Show thru Oct. 5, Downtown Lexington. Juried art show in photography, mixed media, youth and other areas. Free to the public. VisitLexingtonMo.com
Early Childhood Open House 9:00, St. Paul’s Episcopal Day School. Meet school leadership, discuss curriculum with teachers and tour school facilities. SPEDS.org
Penguin Swims 10:00, Tanganyika Wildlife Park. Get in the water with a few of our feathered friends as you 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
Witches Eve 5:00, Downtown Lee’s Summit. Grab your ghoul squad for a wicked night out with plenty of cackles and “boo’s!” DowntownLS.org
4 Friday thru Oct. 6,
Wonderscope Monster Bash
Join us for an after-hours night of not-so-spooky family fun! Don’t forget to wear your best costume! Wonderscope.org
KC Oktoberfest thru Oct. 5, Crown Center. Two-day celebration of Bavarian heritage, modeled after the traditional Munich Oktoberfest. KCOktoberfest.com
The Log Cabin Festival thru Oct. 5, Harrisonville Square. Carnival rides, food trucks and tents. Civil War reenactment and family fun. HarrisonvilleChamber.com
Pony Express Pumpkinfest thru Oct. 6, St. Joseph Museums. Parade, carnival and more. The 8:00 p.m. Friday and Saturday lighting of Pumpkin Mountain is a highlight. PonyExpress.org
Gladfest thru Oct. 6, Linden Square. Crafts, carnival, parade, vendors and family fun. Kids Corner presented by Oakhill Day School. GladstoneChamber.com
Horse Power thru Oct.6, Coterie Theatre. Tom Bass, a Missourian born in slavery, became the greatest horseman of his time and this charming play tells his story. TheCoterie.org
Oktoberfest Art & Craft Show thru Oct. 5, John Knox Pavilion. Over 100 booths and a wide variety of products to experience. Free admission. IBDPromotions.com
Jumperoo 8:00, Urban Air Trampoline Park Overland Park. Children 5 and under and their parent/guardian can jump, bounce and crawl around safely. UrbanAirOP.com
Art Course Fall Season 10:00, Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Miniature golf in the Sculpture Garden inspired by masterpieces. Nelson-Atkins.org
Glass Pumpkin Patch & Glassblowing Demo 4:00, Belger Glass Annex. Glass pumpkins for sale, live glassblowing demos and make-yourown-glass-pumpkin activities. BelgerArts.org
Trucktober Fest 2024 5:30, T.B. Hanna Station. Enjoy live music, food trucks, yard games and more at T.B. Hanna Station. Raymore.com
Cass County Sherif ’s Rodeo thru Oct. 5, North Park Arena. Food trucks, activity barn, vendors, rodeo and more at this family-friendly event. CassCoSherifsO fceAuxil.Simpletix.com
Fall Concerts in the Park 6:30, Zona Rosa. Bring a chair, blanket and friends to enjoy free concerts. Come early and get dinner at any of the restaurants. ZonaRosa.com
5 Saturday
Fall Festival of Arts, Crafts & Music thru Oct. 6, Missouri Town Living History Museum. Historic interpreters, artisans, musicians and crafters will bring the 19th century to life. MakeYourDayHere.com
Hoots & Howls: Friends of the Force thru Oct. 6, Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium. Find the droids you are looking for as the 501st Legion joins us from a galaxy far, far away. KansasCityZoo.org
Applefest thru Oct. 6, Weston. Wonderful arts and crafts vendors, delicious varieties of food, live music, apple butter demonstration, games and autumn delights. WestonMo.com
Pumpkin Festival 8:00, Historic Downtown Liberty. Free event featuring KC Wolf, the Pumpkin Queen, vendors, crafts, children’s activities and fall games. HistoricDowntownLiberty.org
Jumperoo 8:00, Urban Air Trampoline Park Overland Park. Children 5 and under and their parent/guardian can jump, bounce and crawl around safely. UrbanAirOP.com
Silver City Day Parade & Festival 9:00, Argentine Neighborhood. Parade, bounce houses, face painters, games, live music, demonstrations and more. WyCoKCK.org
Free Kids’ Project 9:00, Home Depot Locations. Free in-person kids’ workshops. This month, make a fre rescue truck. HomeDepot.com
Scarecrow Festival 9:00, Shawnee City Hall. Scarecrow making, pumpkin decorating, a farmers market and seasonal displays. CityOfShawnee.org
Homefest Fall Party 10:00, Colonial Overland Park Campus. Join us for an afternoon flled with fall favorites, music and more. ColonialKC.org
Japan Festival 10:00, Midwest Trust Center. Japanese musical performances, traditional foods, candy artist, snacks and sweets, exhibits, martial arts, anime and more. JCCC.edu
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
Fall Bazaar at Union Cemetery 10:00, Union Cemetery Park. 30+ local vendors, food trucks, music, history hours, story time for the kids and so much more. UCHSKC.org
Hike with a Naturalist 10:30, Lakeside Nature Center. Hike focused on habitats around Lakeside Nature Center. Dress for the weather and enjoy this free program. LakesideNatureCenter.org
Tacotopia 11:00, Nebraska Furniture Mart of Kansas City. Join NFM on National Taco Day as we celebrate Hispanic Heritage month! NFM.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
Whimsical Woods 1:00, Ernie Miller Nature Center. Costumed characters will delight and entertain audiences of all ages with live animals, stories and activities. Register at JCPRD.com
Movie Night on the Lawn: Monsters, Inc. 7:00, Legends Outlets. Watch timeless classics and Hollywood blockbusters every Saturday through October. LegendsShopping.com
6 Sunday
Scarecrow Run 5K 7:30, Linden Square. Run or walk through the downtown Gladstone area in your favorite costume. Gladstone.MO.US/Recreation
Berkley Riverfront Festival 11:00, Berkley Riverfront Park. Free event with over sixty vendors and artists. Enjoy live music, beautiful green space and river views. ArtGardenKC.org
7 Monday
Sensory-Friendly Days 9:00, Johnson County Museum. This limited-occupancy session is for children and families with sensory processing diferences. JCPRD.com
Mornings with Mommy: All About Me 10:00, Mt. Olive Lutheran Church & School. Unique blend of story time, learning centers and playdate for ages 0–5. MtOliveLutheranSchool.com
Night at the Arboretum 6:00, Overland Park Arboretum. Observe celestial objects like galaxies and star clusters with telescopes on site. OPKansas.org
8 Tuesday
Goodnight Moon thru Nov. 2, Theatre for Young America. A charming musical that brings the beloved bedtime story to life. TYA.org
Mini Medical School 3:30, IDEA Space. Immerse your little pre-pre-med student in their frst step toward doctorhood. Learning health and anatomy was never so fun. IdeaSpaceKC.org
The Voice and the Violin 7:00, Folly Theater. Violinist Joshua Bell and vocalist Larisa Martínez present romantic arias and modern classics. HJSeries.org
9 Wednesday
Retro Storytime 10:00, Johnson County Museum. Preschoolers love stories from long ago, read by a special guest from the 1950s All-Electric House. JCPRD.com
Olathe Sip & Shop 5:00, Johnson County Square. A family-friendly pop-up market featuring local makers, food trucks, music and more. OlatheKS.gov
pianolessons
10 Thursday
Pay for Play 10:00, Backyard Specialists. Plan a playdate for your children and their friends at the amazing showroom! BackyardSpecialists.com
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
11 Friday
Thunder Over the Heartland Air Show thru Oct. 13, Forbes Field. The USAF Thunderbirds headline this family-friendly air show. ThunderOverTheHeartland.com
Lenexa Chili Challenge thru Oct. 12, Old Town Lenexa. Free foodie festival with live music and a freworks show, face painters, balloon artists and more. Lenexa.com
GloWild: Legends & Lore thru Dec. 29, Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium. Immersive nighttime experience with massive, handcrafted artworks on display at the Zoo. KansasCityZoo.org
Penguin Swims 10:00, Tanganyika Wildlife Park. Get in the water with a few of our feathered friends as you touch, pose and play with penguins. TWPark.com
Homeschool Day 10:00, Shawnee Town 1929. An interactive educational program at the historic truck farm and recreated Downtown Shawnee. ShawneeTown.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 fnish with a snack. CeramicCafeKC.com
Into the Night Fall Festival 5:30, Ironwoods Park. Celebrate fall with activities for all ages including a petting zoo, performances, crafts, food, entertainment and more. Leawood.org
Movies at the Amp: October 6:30, The View Community Center. Grab your lawn chairs and blankets and enjoy a movie under the stars. Grandview.org
Fall Concerts in the Park 6:30, Zona Rosa. Bring a chair, blanket and friends to enjoy FREE concerts. Come early and get dinner at any of the restaurants. ZonaRosa.com
12 Saturday
Hoots & Howls 10:00–3:00 thru Oct. 13, Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium. Guests can enjoy pedal tractors, a pint-sized hay maze and more. Included with admission. KansasCityZoo.org
Heritage Festival thru Oct. 13, Arrow Rock Historic Site. Traditional and modern artistic handcrafted items, living history presenters, entertainment and vendors galore. ArrowRock.org
Outpace Poverty 5K 8:00, Avila University. Kids will enjoy clowns, balloon animals, face painting and snow cones at this 5K for charity. OutpacePoverty.org
Fall Festival 10:00, Shawnee Indian Mission. Local artists, vendors, bake sale, living history performers, Haskell dancers, food trucks and more. ShawneeIndianMission.org
Free Day at Lanesfeld School 10:00, Lanesfeld School Historic Site. Visit the oldest operating schoolhouse in Johnson County. JCPRD.com
Three Tales from Asia 11:00, Puppetry Arts Institute. A set of three tales from Korea, Japan and Turkey, all featuring atypical heroes. PuppetryArtsInstitute.org
Cedar Cove: Public Tours 11:00, Cedar Cove Feline Sanctuary. See these epic animals and learn about their characteristics and behaviors! SaveOurSiberians.org
13th Annual Oktoberfest Noon, Kearney Historic Museum. Activities include live music, local vendors, kids’ infatables, Oktoberfest competitions and more. KearneyEnrichmentCouncil.com
Liberty Hospital Foundation Family Fun Fest 3:30, Liberty Hospital. Free crafts, KC Zoo STEAM table, pony rides, face painting, food vendors and more. LibertyHospitalFoundation.org
Greenwood Haunted Hayride 6:00, Hitt Park. Each scene will be voted on by Haunted Hayride attendees with winners announced at the 9:00 hayride. GreenwoodMO.com
Brew at the Zoo 6:30, Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium. Enjoy an adults-only (ages 21+) evening of live music and sampling from more than 35 local breweries and wineries. KansasCityZoo.org
The Haunted Pavilion 7:00, John Knox Pavilion. Lee’s Summit Symphony performs just in time for spooky season. LSSymphony.org
Movie Night on the Lawn: Hocus Pocus 7:00, Legends Outlets. Watch timeless classics and Hollywood blockbusters every Saturday through October. LegendsShopping.com
KANSAS CITY MUSEUM’S 11TH ANNUAL
Dia de los Muertos Celebration
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 19
5:00 TO 9:00 P.M.
Admission is Pay-What-You-Like | Advance Tickets Required KANSASCITYMUSEUM.ORG FOR FULL DETAILS AND TICKETS
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!
KVC will support you the whole way.
13
Sunday
KC Northern Railroad Rides 10:00, KCNRR. See O Scale Model Train display and ride a train. Fare is $1 per ride; 10-ride punch cards are $9. KCNRR.com
Second Sundays in Lexington 11:00, Downtown Lexington, Mo. Discover the history of Lexington with activities for all ages. HistoricLexington.com
Trunk or Treat—Native Wildlife Event 4:00, Lakeside Nature Center. Stop at the various “trunks” for treats and meet our animal ambassadors. LakesideNatureCenter.org
14
Monday
Gym for Me 9:00, Lenexa Community Center. Provides kids a place to run, ride and play while making new friends. Lenexa.com
Disney100: The Exhibition thru Nov. 30, Union Station. Relive your dreams with ten imaginatively themed galleries highlighting renowned classics and more. UnionStation.org
15
Tuesday
Splash With Me: Lenexa Rec Center 10:00, Lenexa Rec Center. Let your little ones splash, play and build confdence in the water. Lenexa.com
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
Mini Medical School 3:30, IDEA Space. Immerse your little pre-pre-med student in their frst step toward doctorhood. Learning health and anatomy was never so fun. IdeaSpaceKC.org
ClubHALO (Youth Volunteer Program) Service Night 5:30, The HALO Foundation. Make a diference in the lives of homeless and at-risk children worldwide. HaloWorldwide.org
16 Wednesday
Barstow All School Open House 9:00, Barstow School. Families interested in Barstow’s school and programs are invited. BarstowSchool.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
Full Moon Hike 6:30, TimberRidge Adventure Center. Take a guided hike down the trails and listen for owl hoots. Warm up by a fre, toast marshmallows and listen to stories. JCPRD.com
Hotel Elsinore thru Oct. 17, Midwest Trust Center. Denmark. It’s 2 a.m. A hotel room. Three weary travelers, an unexpected will and a production of Hamlet. JCCC.edu
Gold Over America Tour 7:30, T-Mobile Center. Pop-concert-style spectacle showcasing athletic brilliance, championship journeys, and of course, the Gold Squad dancers. T-MobileCenter.com
17 Thursday
1st–8th Grade Open House 9:00, St. Paul’s Episcopal Day School. Meet school leadership, discuss curriculum with teachers and tour school facilities. SPEDS.org
Moonlight Market 4:00, Downtown Shawnee. Fresh produce from farmers market vendors, locally crafted goods, food trucks, games and live music. CityOfShawnee.org
Sesame Street LIVE! Say Hello 6:00, Cable Dahmer Arena. Elmo, Abby Cadabby, Cookie Monster and friends from Sesame Street are coming to KC. CableDahmerArena.com
39th Annual Fairy Tale Forest thru Oct. 20, Martha LaFite Thompson Nature Sanctuary. “Walk of 100 Jack O’Lanterns” with costumed characters and non-spooky fun. NatureSanctuary.com
Electric Poe select dates thru Nov. 3, Union Cemetery Park. R.H. Wilhoit will once again captivate audiences as the master of the macabre. TheCoterie.org
18 Friday
Community Service Weekend thru Oct. 20, Louisburg Cider Mill. Teachers, frefghters, military, frst responders, police, EMTs, nurses and doctors receive $2 of. LouisburgCiderMill.com
Goodnight Moon thru Nov. 2, Theatre for Young America. A charming musical that brings the beloved bedtime story to life. TYA.org
Cornucopia thru Oct. 20, Kansas City Power & Light District. This festival transforms the streets of the Power & Light District into a vibrant celebration of autumn. PowerAndLightDistrict.com
Penguin Swims 10:00, Tanganyika Wildlife Park. Get in the water with a few of our feathered friends as you touch, pose and play with penguins. TWPark.com
Glow Night Trick or Treat 5:30, Colonial South Kansas City Campus. A free night of fun for all ages, including bouncing, face painting and trunk-or-treat. ColonialKC.org
Monster Mash 6:30, Olathe Public Library— Indian Creek. A night of dancing, games, crafts, treats, and of course, a “monstrously” good costume contest. OlatheLibrary.com
Enchanted Forest weekends thru Oct. 26, George Owens Nature Park. Storybook, fairy tale, and other popular characters come to life on your journey. IndependenceMO.gov
Dark Forest weekends thru Nov. 2, Powell Gardens. An extraordinary outdoor event in collaboration with renowned performance art collective Quixotic. PowellGardens.org
19 Saturday
Hoots & Howls 10:00–3:00 thru Oct. 13, Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium. Guests can enjoy pedal tractors, a pint-sized hay maze and more. Included with admission. KansasCityZoo.org
The Great Pumpkin Patch Express weekends in October, Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad. Train ride for the whole family that seeks to fnd that eternally elusive Great Pumpkin! ASVRR.org
Maple Leaf Festival 2024 thru Oct. 20, Baldwin City. A fantastic parade, kids’ zone, live country music all day long, a 5K and over 300 craft booths. MapleLeafFestival.com
LENEXA.COM/HALLOWEEN
FREE FAMILY FUN
HALL WEEN
SIX-STOP TOUR: HUTCHINSON, KS
Hutchinson is just three to four hours from Kansas City, making it an ideal weekend getaway destination.
1. GO UNDERGROUND
Strataca is a one-of-a-kind experience through an underground salt mine museum. Visitors are taken on a 650-foot journey underground to the 68-degree mine (bring a light jacket) where they discover the history of salt mining in Kansas. Below ground, visitors ride the Salt Mine Express, a 15-minute narrated ride through the mine.
2. REACH FOR THE STARS
The Cosmosphere boasts exhibits, planetarium showings, science demonstrations and attractions focused on space exploration. The museum is home to the largest combined collection of U.S. and Russian space artifacts in the world. Exhibits take visitors through the history of the Cold War up through the modern era and include both the history and science of the space program.
3. ANIMAL ADVENTURES
Animal lovers will enjoy time at the Hutchinson Zoo, where you can ride the Prairie Thunder train. The zoo continues to celebrate Kansas’ prairies with wonderful animal exhibits including the prairie dog farm, where visitors can go through specially designed tunnels to see the mammals up close, and the bison exhibit. Additionally, guests enjoy the aviary, mini-farm, and other animal exhibits.
4. WINE TASTING
Hutchinson’s only vineyard, Inland Ocean Vineyards, is a two-acre vineyard yielding over 12,000 pounds of grapes to manufacture over 3,400 bottles of wine annually. The small local vineyard is a true labor of love. The site is open for tastings on Saturdays and Sundays by appointment.
5. RIDE A CAMEL
Who imagined you could ride a camel or play with a kangaroo in the middle of Kansas? Visitors to Hedricks Exotic Animal Farm are delighted to meet animals up close in a safe and educational environment. Zebras, camels, peacocks, llamas and more call the farm home. Hedricks offers tours for families and groups.
6. NATURE LOVERS
Dillon Nature Center is a free 100-acre urban sanctuary featuring more than 300 species of woody plants, hundreds of varieties of wildflowers and native grasses, 200 species of birds, and a large variety of other wildlife along three miles of National Recreation Trails. The visitors center offers educational information for families.
Truck or Treat 8:00, Lenexa Municipal Services Center. Watch monstrous equipment demolish pumpkins and enjoy fun, hands-on activities. Lenexa.com
Jumperoo 9:00, Urban Air Trampoline Park Overland Park. Children 5 and under and their parent/guardian can jump, bounce and crawl around safely. UrbanAirOP.com
14th Annual Cars in the Park Car Show 9:00, Shawnee Theatre in the Park. Free event benefting JCPRD’s Special Olympics team, the Stormin’ Rangers. JCPRD.com
Open Climb Saturday 10:00, Ironwoods Challenge Course. Test your clifhanging skills on our 50-foot tower at the Ironwoods Challenge Course. Leawood.org
International Lineman’s Rodeo 10:00, National Agricultural Hall of Fame. More than 5,000 utility linemen compete in various poleclimbing contests. AgHallOfFame.com
Howl-O-Ween 10:00, Tails and Trails Dog Park. Dress up your furry friends and enjoy the HowlO-Ween Pet Costume Contest. Grandview.org
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
Halloween Happenings 2:00, Merriam Marketplace. Grab your favorite costume and celebrate with spooky fun games, a photo booth and more. Merriam.org
Dia de los Muertos Celebration 5:00, Kansas City Museum. Explore the history and cultural traditions of Mexico with live performances, food and programming. KansasCityMuseum.org
HOWLoween 5:00, Anita B. Gorman Discovery Center. Take a hike on the Wild Side Walk to get up close with some of Missouri’s nocturnal wildlife. Free event. Register at MDC.MO.gov
Zombie Forest Night 6:30, Louisburg Cider Mill. Dress up for a fun night of spooks and thrills as the zombies enter the corn maze. LouisburgCiderMill.com
Botanical Brewfest 7:00, Overland Park Arboretum. Immerse yourself in a symphony of favors and fall foliage as you sample beers from local breweries. ArtsAndRec-OP.org
20 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
30th Annual Dogtoberfest 10:00, Kemper Outdoor Education Center. Explore more than 75 booths featuring pet photos and pet supplies to pet sitters and rescue. MakeYourDayHere.com
Ghost Stories 2:00, Gem Theater. Just in time for Halloween, the dramatic cinematic scope of Randall Standridge’s “A Ghost Story” complements the exquisite craft of Julia Perry’s Symphony No. 6. FreedomBand.com
21 Monday
Disney100: The Exhibition thru Nov. 30, Union Station. Relive your dreams with ten imaginatively themed galleries highlighting renowned classics and more. UnionStation.org
Advanced Robotics With LEGO Spike 9:00, Blue Valley Activity Center. Kids work as scientists and engineers as they progress through a set of lessons, challenges and projects. KansasCity.ClubSciKidz.com
Night at the Arboretum 6:00, Overland Park Arboretum. Observe celestial objects like galaxies and star clusters with telescopes on site. OPKansas.org
22 Tuesday
The Man Behind Oz! Noon, Thompson Barn. An inspiring free presentation and discussion with Chris Glasgow about “The Wizard Behind Oz.” Lenexa.com
Critter Feeding 2:00, Burr Oak Woods Nature Center. Captive amphibians, fsh and turtles enjoy their feast every Tuesday and Friday. MDC.MO.gov
23 Wednesday
Tails, Tales, and Trails 10:30, Prairie Oak Nature Center. Enjoy a nature-themed story time and nature walk! Meet an animal and go for a short hike through the park. Leawood.org
3D Creator 4:30, Blue Valley Activity Center. This class is a great introduction to 3D printing. Students will be introduced to concepts of engineering. Register at KansasCity.ClubSciKidz.com
24 Thursday
Spotlight on Krista Eyler thru Oct. 27, Chestnut Fine Arts Center. Eyler, a former local news reporter, will sing, play guitar and share her story. ChestnutFineArts.com
Thursday Toddler Time at Ceramic Cafe 10:00, Ceramic Cafe. Toddlers 5 and under get to paint one of our selected items for just $12. CeramicCafeKC.com
Enchanted Forest 4:00, Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park. Lenexa’s most popular park transforms into an enchanted forest flled with festive delights for families of all ages. Lenexa.com
Boo Bash 6:00, Celebration Park. An evening of ghastly games and rides, spooktacular activities, lots of candy and a haunted walking trail along the playground. GardnerKansas.gov
25 Friday
Pufs weekends thru Nov. 3, Avila College Goppert Theater. The story of the Pufs ... who just happened to be at a certain wizarding school too. LeawoodStageCo.org
Sonia De Los Santos: A Celebration of Latin America 10:00, Midwest Trust Center. Featuring songs inspired by various Latin American rhythms. JCCC.edu
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 fnish with a snack. CeramicCafeKC.com
Friday Night Sound Frights + Costume Contest 5:00, Lenexa Public Market. Come in costume, gobble up grub and enjoy thrilling music. Lenexa.com
Final Fridays 5:00, Downtown Lawrence. Storefronts convert into fash spaces while performances and exhibits spill in and out of galleries and businesses. ExploreLawrence.com
Trick or Treat Trail 5:30, Stagecoach Park. Along the trail there will be tables and candy stations with tricks, treats and other goodies. OlatheKS.gov
Downtown Spooktacular 6:00, Downtown Tonganoxie, Kan. Local businesses set up downtown for a family-friendly night of tricks and treats. TongieRec.org
Enchanted Forest weekends thru Oct. 26, George Owens Nature Park. Storybook, fairy tale, and other popular characters come to life on your journey. IndependenceMO.gov
26 Saturday
Boo at the Zoo thru Oct. 27, Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium. Enjoy a not-so-scary, safe trick-ortreating experience with pedal tractors, a hay maze and other activities. KansasCityZoo.org
Making Strides Against Breast Cancer 7:30, Crown Center. Help fnish the fght against breast cancer by raising funds for and walking with the American Cancer Society. CrownCenter.com
Paws & Pumpkins 5K 8:00, Hawk Ridge Park. Enjoy a spooktacular morning of ftness and furry fun at the Paws & Pumpkins 5K. Dress yourself and your dog in costume. Raymore.com
Graveyard 5K 8:00, Elmwood Cemetery. The race occurs entirely within the cemetery, the fnal resting place for many infuential Kansas Citians. Sign up at KCCrew.com
Mildale Farm Fall Festival 9:00, Mildale Farm. Free festival with a pumpkin patch, a craft, cider, marshmallows, storytelling, a petting zoo, hayrides and fun. JCPRD.com
Boos, Barks, and Badges 9:00, Downtown Lee’s Summit. Bring the whole family along with your furry friends to trick-or-treat at participating businesses. DowntownLS.org
Holiday Treasures Craft Festival 9:00, Shawnee Civic Centre. Beat the crowds this holiday season and pick up unique, handcrafted gifts. CityOfShawnee.org
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
Harvest Moon Festival 10:00, Peculiar Farmers Market. Kids’ costume parade, trickor-treating, food trucks, live entertainment, infatables, barrel train rides and more. PeculiarChamber.com
Halloween Parade 10:00, Independence Square. Featuring a colorful array of foats, including school marching bands, dance studios, fre trucks and costumes. IChamber.biz
Saturday Reenactment 10:00, Shoal Creek Museum. The Shoal Creek reenactors bring the village to life with living history at this free event. ShoalCreekLivingHistoryMuseum.com
Penguin Swims 10:00, Tanganyika Wildlife Park. Get in the water with a few of our feathered friends as you touch, pose and play with penguins. TWPark.com
Little Acorns 10:00, Anita B. Gorman Discovery Center. Registration required. Join naturalists in making hands-on nature projects. MDC.MO.gov
Cedar Cove: Public Tours 11:00, Cedar Cove Feline Sanctuary. See these epic animals and learn about their characteristics and behaviors! SaveOurSiberians.org
MTC Kids Jam: Sonia De Los Santos 11:00, Midwest Trust Center. Enjoy art activities followed by an hour-long concert with an acclaimed children’s musician. JCCC.edu
Tricks & Treats 11:00, Kansas City Power & Light District. Visit over 15 participating businesses throughout the district for treats at this Halloween extravaganza. PowerAndLightDistrict.com
Trick or Treat 1:00, Downtown Overland Park. Let’s BOO-gie! Kiddos can test out their best costumes at this free event. DowntownOP.org
Howl-O-Ween 2:00, Stocksdale Park. Join Liberty Parks & Rec for Howl-O-Ween, a bad-to-the-bone event for you and your pup. Let’s get this scary-cute pawty started. LibertyMissouri.gov
Trick or Treat of the Street 3:00, Mahafe Stagecoach Stop & Farm. Dress in your Halloween costume and experience 1860s living history activities. Mahafe.org
Spooktacular 4:00, Arrow Rock Historic Site. Trick-or-treating, pet costume contest, tram rides, camp site decorating contest, storytelling and more. ArrowRock.org
Trunk or Treat 5:00, Reach Church De Soto. Round up your friends and neighbors and join us for a night bursting with excitement and sweet treats galore! ReachDeSoto.com
SpookFest 5:00, Science City at Union Station. Celebrate Halloween with a night of spooky science demos and activities, creepy critters and more. UnionStation.org
Trunk or Treat 5:00, Reach Church Raytown. Enjoy a bounce house obstacle course, yard games, interactive trunks and plenty of candy. ReachRaytown.com
Monster Bash 6:00, Wonderscope Children’s Museum. An after-hours night of not-sospooky family fun with candy science, ghoulish activities and a costume contest. Wonderscope.org
Pumpkinpalooza 6:00, Belton Memorial Park. Get your costume and get ready for a night of fun as you trunk-or-treat with local businesses and organizations. BeltonParks.org
Historical Hauntings 6:00, Shawnee Town 1929. Slither by for a family-friendly evening of trick-or-treating, tractor hayrides, farmstead house tours and more. ShawneeTown.org
Haunted Swamp 6:30, Olathe Community Center. Enjoy a spooktacular time swimming in the Haunted Swamp plus pumpkin decorating, lifeguard trick-or-treating and more. OlatheKS.gov
Burning of the Scarecrow 7:00, Louisburg Cider Mill. Fun-flled evening with freworks, live music, campfre, wagon rides, zombies and more. LouisburgCiderMill.com
Dark Forest weekends thru Nov. 2, Powell Gardens. An extraordinary outdoor event in
Mariachi Herencia de México: Our Latin Thing 7:30, Midwest Trust Center. Featuring the iconic sounds of New York’s ’60s and ’70s Latin music explosion. JCCC.edu
27 Sunday
The Great Pumpkin Patch Express weekends in October, Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad. Train ride for the whole family that seeks to fnd that eternally elusive Great Pumpkin! ASVRR.org
Historic Howl-O-Ween 2:00, John Wornall House Museum. Bring your best doggos in their fnest Halloween outfts for the dog costume parade. WornallMajors.org
Jack-O’Lantern Jamboree 3:00, National Agricultural Hall of Fame. Story trail, candy, hayrides, train rides, hay jump, fortune teller and games. AgHallOfFame.com
28 Monday
Dino-Mite Dino Life 9:00, Martha LaFite Thompson Nature Sanctuary. Learn about dinosaur anatomy and life history, paleontology, fossilization and extinction. NatureSanctuary.com
2024 FAVORITE SHOPPING CENTER
Johnson Farms
Fun on the farm awaits the whole family! Come to ride and bounce and/or find the perfect pumpkin. JohnsonFarms.net
29 Tuesday
Little Scientists 3:30, IDEA Space. Your little scientist can make a marshmallow catapult, beeswax candle and edible ocean. IdeaSpaceKC.org
Taco & Trivia Tuesday 7:00, Craft Putt. Participate in a free trivia game where the top teams win prizes. No age limits. Half-priced tacos all day. CraftPutt.com
30 Wednesday
GloWild: Legends & Lore thru Dec. 29, Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium. Immersive nighttime experience with massive, handcrafted artworks on display at the Zoo. KansasCityZoo.org
Disney100: The Exhibition thru Nov. 30, Union Station. Relive your dreams with ten imaginatively themed galleries highlighting renowned classics and more. UnionStation.org
31 Thursday Halloween
American Royal World Series of Barbecue® thru Nov. 3, Kansas Speedway. Competitors from around the world join in the world’s largest barbecue competition. AmericanRoyal.com/BBQ
Trick or Treat Historic Downtown Liberty. Trick-or-treat through downtown shops. LibertyMissouri.gov
Trick or Treat 4:00, Red Bridge Shopping Center. A SPOOKtacular and safe evening with balloon artists, face painting and trick-ortreating. RedBridgeShoppingCenter.com
Trick or Treat 3:00, Corinth Square. Little ghouls and goblins are invited to show of their costumes at The Shops of Prairie Village and Corinth Square. CorinthSquare.com/Happenings
Trick or Treat Street 4:00, Brookside Shops. Little witches, ghosts, goblins, pirates, princesses and superheroes are invited to the Brookside Shops for trick-or-treating. BrooksideKC.org
Trunk or Treat 5:00, Reach Church Paola. Enjoy the Paola parade and also bring friends and neighbors by for more fun and sweet treats. ReachPaola.com
Electric Poe select dates thru Nov. 3, Union Cemetery Park. R.H. Wilhoit will once again captivate audiences as the master of the macabre. TheCoterie.org
Music & Lyrics by Jerry Herman | Book by Michael Stewart
buy only one holiday album this season, this is it."
s t o r l i n g d a n c e . o r g details available soon at
“Melanie Penn dazzles with her musical gift.” Huffington Post "If you
Create good lifelong habits WALK TO SCHOOL!
We are all pedestrians at some point in our day. Walking is active transportation that can help kids establish a lifelong habit of physical activity. And teaching kids safe walking habits now will serve them well into the future.
Beyond individual safety, communities with more people walking and bicycling tend to have lower crash rates for all types of travel. One reason may be that motorists drive more cautiously when they expect to encounter walkers and bicyclists. More walkers and bicyclists can also improve personal security by providing more “eyes on the street.”
We are inspiring kids and parents to walk, roll and stroll across the Kansas City region throughout the month of October.
Use these safe walking tips to set your kids on a path to pedestrian success:
• Plan your route in advance. Choose routes with good accessibility, walkability and lighting.
• Use the sidewalk whenever possible, and if there isn’t a sidewalk, walk on the edge of the street facing trafc.
• Whenever they are available, use marked crosswalks to cross the street, and look left-right-left for vehicles or bikes before crossing.
• Make sure you never play, push or shove others when you walk around trafc.
• Everyone should watch the road, not their phones.
Find resources and fun fall events for your family at marc.org/walk
