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HOSTING TURKEY DAY?
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We offer pediatric walk-in urgent care seven days a week, medical advice by phone, after-hours on-call physicians and online scheduling!
Raintree Pediatrics 995 SW 34th St. Lee’s Summit, Missouri 816.525.4700 Raintree-Pediatrics.com Blue Springs Pediatrics 1600 NW South Outer Road Blue Springs, Missouri 816.554.6520 BlueSpringsPediatric.com
Sallie L. Veenstra, MD Barbara S. Trites, MD Lisa B. Fletcher, MD Deann E. DeWitt, MD Allison C. Henschel, MD Sarah J. Gladstone, MD Bryan L. Phillips, MD Daniel E. Gershon, DO Veronica Manka, MD Jeffrey P. Yannette, MD Jennifer M. Sauer, MD Ashley Campbell, DO
Urgent Care Blue Parkway office Mon-Thur 8:00 am - 7:00 pm Friday 8:00 am - 4:00 pm Sat-Sun 8:00 -11:00 am Blue Springs & Raintree Mon-Fri 8:00 am -11:00 am
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Scheduled appointments Mon-Fri 10:00 -12:00 pm & 1:00 - 4:00 pm Free Prenatal Consults Mon-Fri 10:00 -12:00 pm & 1:00 - 4:00 pm
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Angela Stott, C-PNP Kimberly McNerney, C-PNP Tiffany Vitt, C-PNP
What If? …EVERYTHING You’ve Ever Been Told About Braces for Your Kids WAS WRONG? Take advantage of today’s clear and invisible braces treatment options to help take even better care of your kids, without missing work or school. Guaranteed. Burleson Orthodontics offers more after-school and after-work appointments than any other orthodontic specialty practice in Kansas City and can help you avoid braces if your child doesn’t need them or doesn’t need braces yet. Discover the difference before choosing your family’s orthodontist and claim your FREE copy of the Amazon best-selling book Stop Hiding Your Smile! A Parent’s Guide to Confidently Choosing an Orthodontist, plus receive a complimentary exam, consultation and digital x-rays ($249 value) when you mention this magazine advertisement. (while supplies last)
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Life’s
Best Memories Begin Here
Meet Our Newest OB-GYN Tara Chettiar, M.D. Schedule an appointment 913-317-3200
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NOV 2014
DEPARTMENTS 10-PAGE THANKSGIVING GUIDE, PG. 40
FEATURES
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22
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Gift Guide
Specialty Pets
Listen Better
Great gift ideas for kids of all ages
Unique pets teach kids about world around them
10 ways to improve your child’s listening skills
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Women’s Health
14
Blog Bits
16
Media Mix
34
Healthy Kids
41
Word from Dad
42
Craft Corner
43
Faith & Family
SPECIAL SECTIONS 23
Party Guide
40
Thanksgiving Guide
50
Calendar of Events
Our cover features Katie from Louisburg. Cover and select interior photos by KiaBondurant.com Where you find family, you will find us.
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ON THE COVER Unhealthy Foods
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Listen Better
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Getting Kids Off the iPad
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Stranger Danger
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Thanksgiving Guide
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OFF the iPad… it’s worth the fight!
hOStING turkey day?
Enjoy our 10-page GuidE!
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5 surprisingly unhealthy foods selective hearing at your house? redefining stranger danger
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EDITOR’SLETTER NOV 2014 Publisher Michael Gimotty Michael@KCParent.com
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Enter to win 2 tickets to the
THE NUTCRACKER See details on pg. 52. A $250 value.
Editor Margaret Sarver Margaret@KCParent.com Art Director Kim Tappan Tappan Design Kim@KCParent.com Advertising Sales Darrell Dean Ted Massing Jackie Streiker Marla Westrup Advertising@KCParent.com Electronic Media Manager Kristina Light Kristina@KCParent.com Event Calendar Susan Hawke Calendar@KCParent.com Copy Editor Susan Crainshaw Susan@KCParent.com Distribution To be added to our distribution list, e-mail Distribution@KCParent.com
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Local Contributing Writers William Bartlett (Belton), Rachel Boese (Gardner), Jennifer Bosse (Kansas City), Casey Carey (Lee’s Summit), Wendy Connelly (Overland Park), Tisha Foley (Belton), Lauren Greenlee (Olathe), Jessica Heine (Olathe), Rebecca Ishum (Kansas City), Karen Johnson (Olathe), Megan Kapple (Kansas City), Gina Klein (Liberty), Kristina Light (Kansas City), Laura McEachen (Overland Park), Mari Rydings (Platte City), Jim Strahle (Kansas City), Melanie Yunger (Shawnee)
Business Office 11936 W. 119th #335, Overland Park, KS 66213 913.782.3238 phone • 913.681.5139 fax OUR PRODUCTS Where you find family, you will find us.
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surviving newborn isolation
selective hearing at your house? redefining stranger danger kcgoingplaces.com
Happy Thanksgiving, Kansas City! I am thankful for you, our readers!
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SUGAR PLUM FAIRY CHILDREN’S BALL at Union Station followed by a performance of KC Ballet’s
Associate Publisher Darrell Dean Darrell@KCParent.com
.com
Holiday Giveaway!
ow did we get to November? I can’t believe Thanksgiving is upon us, and the holiday season is knocking on the door. For the past 18 years, my dear mother-in-law has prepared and hosted Thanksgiving. And, unlike the Thanksgiving dinners I ate as a youth, hers feature homemade dressing and cranberries in the shape of berries—not a can. We bring a pie (typically store bought) and my husband’s pumpkin fudge, but that’s been the extent of my prepping for Thanksgiving dinner. That, my friends, is changing this year. My MIL is having surgery and will be out of commission for prepping the meal. As of the writing of this letter, it may fall upon my shoulders to plan/cook this year. Overland Park mom Laura McEachon’s article, “Thanksgiving Hacks,” will be a BIG help to me as I muddle my way through this daunting task. And as I am now a smart phone owner, the Thanksgiving apps article will come in handy, as well. Speaking of that holiday that falls on the fourth Thursday of November, I’m reminded of all the things for which I am thankful. In addition to the usual suspects (family, home, health, friends), I want to give a special thanks this year to organ donors. This year marks the 15th anniversary of my brother’s heart transplant. While the donor family has wished to remain anonymous, I am so thankful for the gift they have given to our family.
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Margaret Sarver, Editor Kansas City Parent Magazine is published 12 times a year by Family Media Group. It is distributed free of charge throughout the Kansas City area. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect KC Parent’s opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written permission. Kansas City Parent Magazine does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. All photography and letters sent to KC Parent will be treated unconditionally assigned for publication and copyright purposes and are subject to unrestricted right to edit and comment editorially. KC Parent often includes websites that may be helpful to our readers. We verify each site prior to publication. However, content changes frequently. We encourage you to use caution and discretion when visiting a website.
Postmaster, please send changes to KC Parent, 8691 W. 96th St, Ste 1B, Overland Park, KS 66212.
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Bedding, Decor And More Shop our selection of the latest styles and trends for babies to teens.
nfm.com I-435 & State Ave. West Kansas City, KS
913–288–6327 800 – 407–5000
Near Kansas Speedway in Village West
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WOMENSHEALTH
Welcome to the family Kansas City at Home!
National Hospice and Palliative Care Month
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FREE Oct-Dec 2014 KCParent.com Since 2002
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Where you find family, you will find us.
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s I write this article, my grandmother is taking her last breaths. She is 94 and has lived in a nursing home for the past two years. By the time this piece is published, she will have passed on. Over the past week, I have seen her decline rapidly, but thankfully, the hospice nurses and staff have been by her side 24 hours a day. So I find it extremely fitting to write about hospice and palliative care, not only to honor those that provide this beautiful service, but also to honor my grandmother.
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Locally owned Family Media Group, publishers of KC Parent, KC Baby & Maternity and KC Going Places announce their newest publication, Kansas City At Home magazine (formerly KCH&G) Kansas City At Home can be found at local grocery stores and online at KCAtHome.com
interested in advertising? Email Ted Massing at ted@familymediagroup.com
What is hospice and palliative care?
Hospice and palliative care comprises people that provide compassionate care for patients and their families faced with terminal illness. At the very core of hospice and palliative care is the concept that we each have the right to die with dignity and to die pain free.
What services are provided?
• Pain and symptom management • Assistance with emotional, psychological and spiritual aspects of dying • Medications, medical supplies and equipment • Instruction for the family on how to care for the patient • Service delivery, such as speech and physical therapy • Continual care when the patient is imminent • Bereavement care and counseling to surviving family and friends • Information regarding post-death needs, such as funeral arrangements and financial planning
Hospice has grown and changed over the past decade. It is not where you go to die, but instead a service that allows patients to live their lives fully, without pain, until the end of their lives. There is no fixed limit or time a patient may continue to receive hospice services. Most insurance plans and Medicare provide this benefit. Hospice care is provided wherever patients may be: in their own homes, a family member’s home or, in the case of my grandmother, a nursing home. For more information and personal stories, please visit MomentsOfLife.org. As always, for further questions or personal advanced planning, please talk with your health care provider. Melanie Yunger is a local wife, mother and nurse practitioner.
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I am ... … a Jayhawk mom. … a Gorilla mom. … a Zumba enthusiast. … a ballroom dancer. … a beach explorer. … a volunteer. … a blood donor. dono … passionate. … grateful. … loving Stephanie loves to be active and share her time with others. She has a multitude of hobbies and activities that keep her on the go. Stephanie loves the beach and the sand and sun as she explores the beauty of the ocean with her husband. She is also a loyal and dedicated blood donor who takes 60 minutes of her time every 56 days to help save a life in her community.
Who are you?
savealifenow.org kcparent.com november 2014
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oh, go play!
Do your children ever walk into a room full of toys and sigh that they are bored? Remember when we were kids—when we were bored, we played! We played with sticks, rocks, dirt, rode bikes for hours, created secret languages, chased and tagged each other. Nowadays, it seems that children are losing the art of “play.” Let’s bring back good old playtime!
Got 15 minutes?
Got 30 minutes?
Got 1 hour?
Stuck indoors? The rug is lava! In this oldie but goodie, the kids navigate between each piece of furniture in the room without touching the rug. They can use each other or other objects in the room to create bridges or devices to help them travel.
Dump a pile of recycled materials in front of your kindergartener and tell her to build! Suggestions include cardboard paper towel inserts, magazine clippings, tissue paper, empty tissue boxes, empty coffee cans, Popsicle sticks, etc. Add some scissors, glue, tape and paint and watch the magic happen.
Take a nature walk! Create sticky bracelets for nature collecting. Wrap masking tape around your child’s wrist (sticky side out), and as he finds objects he wants to keep (leaves, grass, nuts), he can stick them to his nature bracelet.
Ages 5-6:
Ages 7-9:
Raid your cabinets. Do you have balloons and wooden spoons? You are good to go. This is a simple yet hilarious game to get your kids moving. You can call it balloon ping-pong or balloon paddleball, but as long as you use the wooden spoons to keep the balloons in the air, you are playing it right!
Ages 10-12:
Use your brains! Place 10 to 12 objects on a table (a book, pencil, cup, the remote control, a hairbrush, a toothpick, etc.). Give kids 30 seconds to memorize what they see. Have them close their eyes as you take an object away. What’s missing? The first person to guess correctly wins! Play another round, letting one of the kids round up the items.
Ages 5-6:
Ages 7-9:
Timed house/yard scavenger hunt! Make a list of six items for the kids to find, such as something that starts with the letter B, something square, something that smells nice, something that starts with the letter G, something loud and something soft. Set a timer for one minute and GO! When time is up, have the kids present their items. If they found all six correctly in time, they get a point. Do another round!
Age 10-12:
Old favorites with a modern twist! Incorporate this generation’s love for pop and/or reality TV stars into charades or karaoke. Choose famous people that your kids know (and that you approve of their impersonating!) and have the rest of the family guess.
Ages 5-6:
Ages 7-9:
A great investment if you have children in this age group is butcher paper. It provides unlimited room for imaginations to flourish. Have them trace their bodies and then complete life-sized portraits or images of themselves, including details on their clothing, facial features, hair accessories, etc.
Ages 10-12:
Let the kids combine their dancing or acting skills with their love for technology. They can choreograph their own dance routine and record a music video or write a script and record a movie. Have them design their own costumes, incorporate a soundtrack and edit their work. Once completed, the family can sit down together and view the final cut. Karen Johnson is a former high school English teacher turned stay-at-home mom. She lives in Olathe with her three children, ages 5, 3 and 1. Follow her adventures at 2stCenturySAHM.blogspot.com.
Do kids spend enough time just playing? Read “It’s Called Play” at KCParent.com to find out.
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At Brain Balance Achievement tackle your issues • Learning disabilities Centers, we • Behavioral At Brain Balance Achievement Centers, we tackle your child’s ADHD at the most fundamental level — with a • Aspergers • Processing disorder child’s ADHD at the most fundamental level — with a unique, drug-free, whole-child approach that goes unique, drug-free, whole-child approach that goes beyond symptoms to address root “The Brain Balance Program hascauses. helped my son William tremendously. beyond symptoms to address root causes. has deserves made huge in reach his core and is becoming more EveryHe child theimprovements opportunity to their coordinated daily. These successes are all creating a new William. He is Every child deserves the opportunity to reach their fullest social and academic potential. Stop in or call fullest social and academic potential. Stop in or call becoming more and more confident and proud of himself and his to learn moreand about thelooking Brain Balance abilities is now forward Program® to reaching his full potential!” to learn more about the Brain Balance Program® and how we can help your child succeed. -Tracy, Overland Park Mom and how we can help your child succeed. “We are beginning our third month at Brain Balance, and what a mind-blowing journey it has been! My son is more alert, more energetic, more confident. My husband and I now have a child who wants to swim, bike and have play dates--all activities he shied away from in the past. We can’t wait to see what this school year holds!” -Annette, Olathe Mom
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BLOGBITS
I
have one of those grandmothers that looks like she came straight out of a children’s book. Rosy cheeked, indelibly sweet and, without fail, always in an apron with a warm dessert tray in her hands. She is the quintessential grandmotherly figure. For most of my childhood, I lived far away from her central Kansas home, meaning I could only bank on Christmases together (we were lucky to see each other maybe once or twice more than that throughout the year). When I was 9, my family moved back to my dad’s hometown, and for the first time, I lived close to my sweet paternal grandmother. Talk about a kid’s dream come true! For those three years, we lived just one block away from each other. Her house was everything a grandma’s house should be. Knickknacks lined the window ledges. A school bell collection was displayed prominently in a shadow box on one of the living room walls. Doilies accented the end tables, coffee table and credenza.
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a
St
or
k G r an o o dm yb
I’ve come to realize the greatest gift my grandmother has provided me, both as an adult and as a child, is that of perspective. Going to Grandma’s was fun not because what she provided was new and flashy but because it was warm and familiar. Grandma had (and still has) the ability to make the simple things seem special. Marathon runs of I Love Lucy or multiple hands of cards were pleasant ways to pass the hours side by side. Grandma had an open door policy, which meant my siblings and I were always welcome to stop by unannounced—and we took her up on it! When I was 12, my family moved again, this time just north of Kansas City. The idea of leaving Grandma behind was unthinkable, so we asked if she would consider moving with us. She agreed, and
my parents built her a house next door to their own. Being next door provided her the privacy and autonomy she needed, but also meant she was just a few steps away. Until her mid-70s, she walked a couple of miles a day and worked at a Hallmark retail store. On her days off, she enjoyed taking day trips. A handful of times she invited me to join her on one of her “gravel road adventures.” For people my own age, driving is usually just viewed as a way to get from point A to point B. But to my grandma, driving is the good stuff, the journey just as important as the destination. We would head out of town and quickly veer off the beaten path; she preferred country roads to highways and interstates. Sometimes without a clear destination in mind, other times with a small town, lonesome cemetery or historic site the end goal, we would drive. I never could figure out how she knew where she was going, since she didn’t own a GPS and rarely used a map when charting new territory.
Now as a married woman with three children of my own, I don’t have the opportunities to visit my grandma like I did when we once lived next door to one another. Grandma lives on the other side of the city, more than an hour’s drive away. She no longer works but instead fills her time volunteering at a local hospital and extending hospitality. When I make the trek back up to visit, car fit to burst with children and baby gear, I survey the land once we get out of the city limits. Cornfields on my right and pastureland on my left, I know Grandma would have much to say about the land that a city girl like me couldn’t comment on. When we get together, our conversations center on how much the kids have grown, on how extended family is doing and, occasionally, we’ll reminisce about old memories together. My 1-year-old will coo and babble at our feet, happily playing with the same blocks that were once pulled out for me to play with as a little girl. I’ve come to realize the greatest gift my grandmother has provided me, both as an adult and as a child, is that of perspective. Going to Grandma’s was fun not because what she provided was new and flashy but because it was warm and familiar. We didn’t need to go seek out new forms of entertainment to enjoy one another’s company. Being together was the gift. She has taught me that, much like those day trips spent together jostling down old gravel roads, the day in, day out journeys of life are to be enjoyed as much as the big occasion milestones. I hope my boys will have the privilege of storing up many memories of times spent with their storybook great-grandma, and that times with their grandparents— hearing their stories and connecting with them—will teach them precious life lessons. And one day, way off in the distance, I hope that when my children are grown and married and have children of their own, I can provide that cozy over-theriver-and-through-the-woods home that is warm and inviting. Lauren Greenlee lives in Olathe. She and other parents blog at KCParent.com. Join the conversation today!
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h
MEDIAMIX
‘tis the season new titles offer seasonal fun from frost to frolics Skippyjon Jones: Snow What By Judy Schachner Best for: Ages 3-7
Skippyjon Jones, the Siamese cat that thinks he is a chihuahua, is back in a wonderful wintery tale. When his sisters listen to Snow White, Skippyjon bounces off his bed and into his closet for an adventure. Los Chimichangos challenges him to journey through the snowy forest to wake up the
frozen princess with a kiss. Does he do it? Schacner does a wonderful job imparting personality and life into the text with wordplay in two languages. This is a wonderful addition to the Skippyjon Jones series. And like the rest, it really should be read aloud.
What’s good: The rhyming text flows well and adds to the fun of reading it out loud. What’s bad: The occasional Spanish can trip up beginning readers. Take your time.
Horton and the Kwuggerbug and More Lost Stories By Dr. Seuss Best for: Ages 4-8
Dr. Seuss may have passed, but his presence is still strong in the world of children’s literature. His newest book, Horton and the Kwuggerbug and More Lost Stories, brings together stories that were published in Redbook in the early 1950s. Now, children get to read them as fully fleshed out picture books. Readers will find comfort in the familiar characters and Seussian story structure. It’s difficult not to smile when reading
a Dr. Seuss book. Even if these tales are not his best, they are still better than a majority of the new children’s literature today. The title story is going to be a favorite of kids everywhere. You can’t help but laugh when the nasty little kwuggerbug gets what is coming to him. Enjoy this book for read aloud times, for bedtime or whenever you have a moment to read.
What’s good: Dr. Seuss. Need I say more? What’s bad: Not enough space given to “The Hoobub and the Grinch.”
The Vigilante Poets of Selwyn Academy By Kate Hattemer Best for: Ages 12-17
What do you get when you cross reality TV, Ezra Pound and a high school for the arts? A very funny and slightly edgy story about a group of somewhat nerdy friends taking on “the man” and taking back their school from the unreality of Hollywood. The Vigilante Poets has mystery, romance and subterfuge with a big ribbon of humor running
through all of it. With a poem, Ethan, Luke, Jackson, Elizabeth and a heroic gerbil named Bacconaise stage a protest against the reality show being filmed at their school. Sounds odd, but it’s seriously entertaining. Once you get through the first few chapters, you won’t want to put it down.
What’s good: Great use of language and strong development of realistic characters. What’s bad: Our heroes resort to breaking and entering.
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I am ... … a fashionista. … a future doctor. … a little sister. … intelligent. … a blood recipient. … a dancer. … a singer. singe … thankful. … strong. … brave. Nina is a fashionista who loves singing and dancing. One day she will be a doctor and do great things for her patients. She is also a blood recipient who battled Clear Cell Sarcoma and won. Nina is thankful for blood donors who took just 60 minutes of their time to help save her life.
Who are you?
savealifenow.org
thedaltonburnerfoundation.org kcparent.com november 2014
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GIFT GUIDE By Margaret Sarver
Juggle Bubbles
My younger is the queen of “As Seen on TV,” and the ads work on her. She sees it and she wants it. Juggle Bubbles have been high on her list for quite some time. She was thrilled to try them out. The kit comes with a bubble blower, bubble tray, unique bubble solution and a pair of magic gloves.
Blow bubbles and then bounce, toss and pass the bubbles wearing the special gloves. The bubble solution will provide hours of entertainment for your children, inside or out. Be sure to buy refills of the bubbles, as regular solution doesn’t work with the gloves (and believe me, we tried). JuggleBubbles.com
Let It Go!
Gifts based on the hit movie Frozen are sure to be tops on many lists this year. Just in time for the holidays, Stride Rite is introducing both a Frozen sneaker and boot. Fans of Anna and
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Elsa will love the purple that adorns both, along with the heart-shaped gem—and the sneakers light up! Build-A-Bear has joined the Frozen frenzy with several new offerings. Fans can stuff Olaf, an Anna bear or an
Elsa bear and have a soft and fluffy friend from their favorite movie. We love stuffed animals in our home, and Build-A-Bear never disappoints. Shoes: StrideRite.com. Stuffed Pals: BuildABear.com.
Little Scholar
I have a love/hate relationship with technology for young kids. While I understand that it’s here to stay, I do think it is being used a bit too
often with younger kids. Parents need to set limits with and monitor use of technology. That’s why I really like this Little Scholar tablet from SchoolZone. Instead of handing kids a phone or iPad, hand them this tablet that comes preloaded with games, videos, songs and more just for kids ages 3-7. The little kids will feel important having a tablet of their own! SchoolZone.com
Shopkins
Why do kids love tiny toys? Shopkins are some of the latest tiny toys on the market. They are tiny, collectable figures based on items found in stores. They include party food items, sweet treats, dairy, fruits and veggies and more. And now, kids can go on a Shopkins spree and shop until they drop with the Small Mart. Whether sliding their groceries down the delivery chute or heading to the checkout at the conveyer belt register, there’s always work to be done and fun to be had at the Small Mart. ShopkinsWorld.com/us
Little Live Pets
My kids really want a pet. They have a turtle, but apparently that’s not good enough. They would love a dog (not going to happen) and have recently been on a bird bandwagon. That’s where Little Live Pets comes in.
Buildex PlaySkool Heroes
It’s a pet bird in a cage that talks back and repeats what kids say and even whistles a special tune. You don’t have to clean up after it, and it doesn’t create a mess. Now this is a pet I am on board with! LittleLivePets.com
I have spent hours trying to get Transformers to work, and it typically doesn’t end well. That’s why I love these Transformers from Playskool. They are easy for younger kids to transform. With just one twist of the torso, Optimus Prime changes into a Tyrannosaurus rex. Check out the other figures they offer, along with their superhero Hulk and Superman figures that are sure to please all of the superhero fans in your home. HasbroToyShop.com
New emergency vehicles from Buildex come to the rescue when it comes to all-day fun for kids. The new emergency rescue vehicles, in particular, allow youngsters to build toys in two different ways from the same high quality parts. Each vehicle in the set has two different options for building, creating and playing. These were designed to encourage children to develop three-dimensional thinking and an appreciation for construction, movement and design. What do I love best? No glue or tools needed to assemble! BuildexSystems.com Come back in December for more great gift ideas!
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Essential Oils:
do they really work or is it just a scam?
A
cross the nation, we seem to be moving toward a more natural way of living by cutting toxins, upping our whole foods intake and finding ways to help our families more independently and healthfully. One way that people are choosing to help their families is by incorporating essential oils into their everyday lives. With the way essential oils recently have flooded social media, parents have been left wondering whether they really are effective or if it is all just hype.
what exactly are essential oils? Essential oils often are referred to as the “life blood” of the plant. It’s the volatile fluid inside a plant that both gives it a scent and works to protect the plant as it grows and thrives. There are several different ways to extract the essential oil from a plant, but the most common is through steam distillation. Plant matter is heated over time at low temperatures to extract the essential oil fluids, and that is what is bottled and sold to consumers.
their history With the sudden surge in interest, people are asking why we are just now discovering what essential oils can do. The truth is
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that essential oils have been well-known and highly regarded for centuries. Dating all the way back to biblical times, essential oils are mentioned more than 200 times in ancient Scriptures. The tombs of Egyptian pharaohs have been opened to reveal that essential oils were regarded more highly than precious treasures. Ancient Rome wrote recipes containing essential oils on the walls of their bath houses.
where do you buy them? Unfortunately, not all essential oil companies are the same. Because the FDA doesn’t closely regulate the essential oil industry, consumers are faced with the difficult job of sifting through companies that adulterate or add synthetic substances to their oils. Regulations allow companies to label a bottle of essential oils as “100% pure” as long as the bottle contains only 5 percent essential oil. The other 95 percent can be filled with something other than essential oil, and still keep the “100% pure” label. Consumers need to be careful in doing their research when choosing an essential oil company, and generally, it’s best to look beyond health food stores for the most effective oils. It’s important to ask a lot of questions: Where are the plants grown? Does the
company own its own farms? Are tests performed on every single batch of oil? Are the test results available to consumers for each specific batch of oil? Are there batch numbers on every bottle of oil? Are the seeds used to grow the plants GMO-free? Do they harvest at peak times? Do they distill and bottle their own oils? Do they discard any oils that aren’t within the range for best therapeutic value? There are a lot of companies, but a good company will be able to answer all of these questions and provide extensive information on how they grow their plants to provide the best possible essential oils to their customers.
how are essential oils used? Essential oils have three primary modes of use: 1. You can use a diffuser, a personal oil inhaler or even your cupped hands to allow yourself to inhale the aroma of the essential oils. It takes only 22 seconds for the effects of the essential oil to reach the brain. 2. You can apply the oils topically with a carrier oil. A carrier oil is simply a fatty oil (like coconut oil) that helps the essential oils absorb effectively while protecting the skin from becoming irritated. With topical application, it takes only two to three minutes for the essential oil to reach the blood stream. This method is often used because it is so easy. Oils can be applied over thin skin, such as the back of the neck, inside of the wrists, behind the ears or directly over the source of pain.
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3. Many oil users choose to ingest oils as a way to maximize their effect. Empty vegetable-based capsules can be filled with a combination of essential oils and carrier oil to target different ailments.
what do essential oils actually do?
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Essential oils can help with a whole range of ailments. With so many plants and their essential oils available to us, it’s worth considering essential oils as another tool in making life as comfortable and healthy as possible.
Please note: The information contained in this article is for educational and entertainment purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. Products and techniques discussed are not meant to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease or ailment. Please do your own research and make your own informed decisions when you are considering lifestyle and health changes. Particularly if you are pregnant, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a doctor before starting any new protocol.
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Rebecca Ishum lives in South KC with her husband and 3-year-old quadruplets. She has a passion for using essential oils to better her family’s health and wellness. You can read more about her essential oil journey at ABeautifulRuckus.com or send her an email at TheIshumQuads@gmail.com.
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What’s the best pet for your family? Find out at KCParent.com create a healthy habitat
If you are considering bringing a specialty pet into your classroom or home, you will need to provide an appropriate habitat. High quality pet products that mimic animals’ natural environments are the best option to support pet health. Such environments also can spark the curiosity of children into the world of specialty pets with products that represent their habitats in realistic and authentic ways.
for aquatics pets:
specialty pets inspire kids to learn
a
(Family Features) ll pets bring us closer to the natural world, but specialty pets, such as fish, small pets and reptiles, provide a unique way to inspire kids to learn about the world around them. Pets can help teach kids responsibility and how to keep a routine. They can sharpen kids’ math and science skills through activities such as measuring food and water, keeping track of days of the week on a calendar and studying information about their care needs.
learning in the classroom and beyond Specialty pets can help make learning fun and help students learn more than just traditional academics. By working with their peers at school (or siblings at home), students learn teamwork and responsibility. These pets also provide hands-on learning and teach lessons that will serve students their whole lives. According to Joel Sartore, National Geographic photographer
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and specialty pet owner, specialty pets offer many life skills and learning opportunities, such as:
s Teaching kids responsibility and the
importance of routines. Pets need regular food, water and cleaning of their habitats, and these tasks make learning valuable skills fun.
s Helping kids learn to care for something beyond themselves. Kids often see pets as friends and want to protect them. Adults can explain that too much noise scares a pet, and the child will understand the need for good behavior.
s Providing a better understanding of the natural world. Learning about a nation or climate becomes more meaningful when a child can interact directly with an animal that has roots there.
s Allowing kids to relate to their peers.
Bonding with a pet can give kids common ground with each other and help build friendships.
The Aqua Oasis Aquarium is a complete starter kit, including an internal power filter with filtration media and a submersible heater. Available in various sizes, it features a curved, seamless bow front, allowing for uninterrupted views with easy access for feeding. Low-profile hoods and integrated LED lighting add elegance, while the addition of coordinated 3-D backgrounds and decor allow pet parents to create a natural environment.
for reptile pets: The Reptile Sanctuary ensures your pet will stay securely inside while allowing pet parents to feed, play with and interact through various points around the tank. Depending on the pet’s natural environment, the National Geographic line has tanks designed as desert or tropical climates, and coordinated 3-D backgrounds and decor can be added to enhance these natural themes.
for small pets: The Exploration Loft is available in two sizes and offers a 360-degree view into multilevel play areas and your pets’ daily lives and interesting instinctual behavior. A skylight provides easy access and fresh airflow, plus cleaning is simple with a removable top. For additional information on the care of specialty pets, including proper habitats, feeding and more, visit Petsmart.com/NatGeo.
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foster care A local mom shares her story
We are doing what we can, with what we have, and hoping that somewhere along the way we can make a difference—even if it is a small one.
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M
“Mama…” She had been softly crying out for the past hour while I rubbed her back and sang to her in a futile attempt to try to get her to relax and sleep. We had only known each other for about two hours, and that knowledge of one another was pretty limited. I knew her name and she knew I was not her mama. Even an endless supply of songs, princess blankets and back rubs couldn’t change that fact. My heart broke for this little person who couldn’t verbally tell me how she was feeling, but I understood it and felt powerless to do anything to help it. In the summer of 2007 I began working full time in the admissions department of a local Kansas City-area foster care agency. In my role, I was one of many workers that spent their days calling homes and locating places for foster children to live. My husband and I met at this agency and shared a desire to become foster parents someday in the future. Five short years later, we were parents to two young children with another on the way. We continued to talk about when the right time might be to pursue becoming foster parents. We recognized that there would never be a perfect time where life was calm enough to bring additional children into our home, and we recognized that there were areas where we could be serving with two (almost three) little ones to care for, as well. We have been licensed foster parents for the last two years, and during that time we have had the privilege of welcoming eight additional children, ranging in ages from 1 to 17. Most have been sibling sets, and all have stayed with us for varying lengths of time. We have had children as short as five days and as long as several months. We have worked with our foster children on potty training, job applications and everything in between. There have been difficult parts in our journey thus far. The most difficult has been not being told what happens once children leave our home. Due to confidentiality laws, we are not provided with updates once a child has left our home. We catch ourselves wondering often about how a case resolved or how a particular child is doing. Another tough part for us is recognizing our own limitations. With three young children at home, we have to constantly examine how we are capable of helping and making a difference and being realistic about that. We have big dreams for what our experience as foster parents will look like as our children get older, but for now we have to say “no” to more placements than we would like. Thankfully, there are many ways to help—even as busy parents of three little ones.
However, we have felt far more positive impacts. While we are saddened by the circumstances that often bring foster children to our home, we really feel blessed to be a part of their lives, no matter how short their stay may be. People often ask us whether we worry about our biological children as we welcome additional children into our home. Our children are learning how to be compassionate, generous with their time and possessions and will one day understand what it means to stand up for injustices they might encounter in the world. The most recent statistics available through ChildAlly.org reveal there are more than 7,000 children currently in DCF custody in the state of Kansas alone, and nearly 1,000 children waiting for an adoptive home. These figures represent an all-time high for the state. As of June 2014, there were 2,612 family foster homes in the state of Kansas. These numbers paint a vivid picture of the need for families to willingly open their homes and foster children. For some people, taking in one or more additional children is simply not a possibility, but many local agencies and churches have ways that people can actively help support foster homes and care for foster children. We have had friends donate clothing, sheet sets, baby furniture and many other items to help when we take a child unexpectedly. At the end of the day, we are not special people. We have heard people explain to us why they could never be foster parents: They would get too attached, it would be too difficult or they feel like they lack some ingredient to make them a stellar candidate. Let me be perfectly clear. It is hard. We have cried when children have left our home after only knowing them a short time. Our hearts have been broken when we’ve had to say no to taking children that we know are waiting in an office somewhere for a place to sleep that night. We have been frustrated when no matter how much love we show, a child’s behavior does not change. We are an ordinary family that recognizes the need around us and feels compelled to respond. We are doing what we can, with what we have, and hoping that somewhere along the way we can make a difference—even if it is a small one. *For more information on foster care or how to become a foster parent, visit ChildAlly.org for Kansas or DSS.MO.GOV/cd/fostercare/ for Missouri. Rachel Boese is stay-at-home mom to three biological children (5, 3, and 1). She and her husband, Jonathan, raise these three kiddos and welcome new kiddos into their home in Gardner.
kcparent.com november 2014
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five surprisingly unhealthy foods
W
ith the number of health foods on the market today, a lot of us are trying to make more health-conscious choices about what we put into our bodies. What many of us don’t know, however, is that words like “fat free” and “natural” don’t always mean healthy. In fact, many so-called health foods can be as unhealthy as the junk food we’re trying to avoid. Listed below are some foods often believed to be better choices but, upon further investigation, are revealed as really no healthier than a pack of snack cakes or an order of fries.
“Health” drinks: With so many
on the market today, some filled with added vitamins, probiotics and fiber, how do you choose? Look at the ingredient
The trick to truly eating healthy is in the labels. Read everything, especially the ingredient list.
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list. If it has more than two ingredients, you may want to skip it. Any drink with added ingredients is likely to have added calories in the form of simple sugars. And if it’s sweet but lacks calories, then it’s made with artificial sweeteners, which aren’t great for the waistline, either. Recent studies link artificial sweeteners with vascular events and even increases in metabolic syndrome.
Trail mix: Trail mix may provide us
with a quick snack, but it also gifts our bodies a lot of calories. Healthy trail mix is possible (those with nuts, dried apricots and a bit of dark chocolate), but not those packed with candy pieces, yogurt-covered raisins, or deep-fried banana chips. These are chock-full of simple sugars, calories and trans fats.
Granola: When it’s naked, granola is healthy. However, food manufacturers coat it with unnecessary oils, added sugars and sometimes even candy. With most granola, though not all, a tiny amount can give you a large dose of trans fats and sugar, both of which have been linked to an increased risk
of heart attack and stroke. Plus, the serving size portions are so small that it’s tempting to re-fill the bowl over and over until you’re satisfied. Be smart and read the ingredient list and always practice portion control.
Frozen diet entrees: They may seem healthier due to the lower calorie count, but frozen diet entrees are loaded with sodium (not good for those with high blood pressure), high in preservatives and low in nutrients (e.g., refined grains instead of whole grains). Frozen yogurt/yogurt: Yogurt, whether frozen or not, seems a healthier choice than ice cream. However, in terms of calories and simple sugars, the two foods are not much different at all. Load it up with toppings and you may as well opt for ice cream.
mean calorie free. Sugar simply replaces the fat, which still gives you a high number of calories. Liberty mom and author Gina Klein admits that she is an avid label reader when it comes to purchasing healthy food for her family.
Too much sugar in your kids’ diet? Log onto KCParent.com and find ways to set real life sugar limits.
The trick to truly eating healthy is in the labels. Read everything, especially the ingredient list. Look for things like sugar, high fructose corn syrup and fructose, and be sure to see how much saturated fat is in the product. Remember, fat free doesn’t
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Listening: More Than Just Hearing
r u o y e v o r p im o t s l l s i y k a s 10 w listening s ’ d l i h c
Focused listening is one of the
most important skills your child will ever learn. Children with
strong listening skills do better in school, sports, relationships and, eventually, in their careers.
Focused listening is one of the most important skills your child will ever learn. Children with strong listening skills do better in school, sports, relationships and, eventually, in their careers. But many children lack this important skill, and parents are rightly concerned. What can you do? First, listening is much more than just hearing. It is a given that you will have your child’s hearing checked by medical professionals and follow up on any problems discovered. Occasionally, a wax buildup, ear infection, fluid behind the eardrum or other relatively minor ear problems must be addressed. If your child does have a hearing loss, be very sure to do all you can to maximize his or her hearing. But listening problems are a different issue. “Listening is the conscious process of receiving meaning from the sounds we hear. It implies the ability to stay focused on the message, screen out distractions and make a meaningful connection with the content of the message. Good listening requires practice because it requires effort to do it well.” 1 You can see that good listening requires not only the ears, but engagement of the mind and body, as well. It is a series of decisions made by the listener, and it can break down quite easily. Even children who want to “pay attention” and “follow
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directions” may be unable to if their attention is pulled away by background noise, movement or other competing thoughts and sounds. Children need practice in focusing their attention, receiving the message, understanding the message and then responding in the appropriate way. Parents, you can help your child be a better listener. Here are 10 simple ways to build active listening skills.
Practice Makes Perfect ■
■
■
Model active listening. Build listening motivation and success by intentionally gaining your child’s attention before expecting him to listen. Whenever possible, make eye contact before speaking. When he responds, maintain eye contact and repeat the content of his message or model good listening by using appropriate body language such as nodding.
to build listening skills. Select books he enjoys and stop often to predict what will happen next or to ask his opinion about the action in the story. ■
■
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Encourage conversations on topics of her choice. Model good listening and show your appreciation for her ideas. It is surprising how little conversation takes place in our daily lives with today’s busy schedules. Mealtimes are often good opportunities to engage in conversation. Read to him every day. A 10- to 15-minute read-aloud session is one of the most powerful strategies you have
“The Building Blocks for your Child’s Future”
■
Build her inner language by having her repeat back what you’ve said to her. Or ask her to explain what she is doing or what she plans to do. This will help her to focus on the steps in the process and will help her with listening to receive information and follow steps sequentially. Do the peanut butter and jelly sandwich game. Ask him to write down the directions for making a pb&j and then you model following those directions exactly. Chances are there will be some gaps in the directions which will make for a funny and a bit messy activity. The point will be made: listening to and following directions requires exact skill if you want a good end product. Play the “add one more” game. Give one direction such as “Touch your nose.” Then add a second direction and ask her to do both in sequence. She will need to remember to touch her nose and then go on to the second command. Keep adding directions and see how many she can remember in sequence. Children love this game. Cook together. Find a simple recipe and enjoy time in the kitchen together. Reading the directions aloud and then
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Take a listening walk. Go for a nature walk with the express intention of noticing sounds. Shhh. What do you hear? Where is the sound coming from? What is making that sound? You might even keep a listening log and record the things you hear. Play sound pattern games. Tap on a drum or clap hands in a variety of different rhythmic patterns and have your child repeat the sounds. You can play the same game by counting and clapping the syllables in words. Play the old standby, Simon Says. This game is not only fun for children, it also builds great listening skills. They do not respond unless the leader says, “Simon says.”
Jan Pierce, M.Ed., is a retired teacher and freelance writer who lives in the beautiful Pacific Northwest. She focuses on education and family life topics. Find her at JanPierce.net.
Sources 1 Helping Kids with Learning Disabilities Build Listening Skills by Dr. Kari Miller, LA Special Education Examiner, March 11, 2011. www.Examiner.com.
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Getting Kids Off the iPad:
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kcparent.com november 2014
D
Is it worth the fight?
o you sometimes wonder whether going head-to-head with your children over screen time rules is worth the fight? A recent study confirms that, yes, getting your kids off the iPad—and other electronics—
is worth the battle. The results of the research, published in JAMA (Journal of the American Medical
Association) Pediatrics, found that parents who limit their child’s screen time can witness numerous positive effects for their kids, including better sleep, improved grades, less aggressive behavior and lower risk of obesity. Researchers analyzed more than 1,300 third, fourth and fifth graders in Iowa and Minnesota who were
participating in an obesity-prevention program. They collected data at the beginning of the study and again seven months later on topics such as height, weight, bedtimes, screen time limits, behavior, grades, aggression and exposure to violent video games and other media. What they found was that kids whose parents set limits on their screen time had lower body mass indexes and better sleep habits, performed better in school and were more social compared to kids who did not have screen time rules.
How Much Is Too Much?
• It may encourage short attention span. Studies have shown that
In 2013, the American Academy of Pediatrics released its new policy on children and media use: no more than two hours of passive screen time daily and no screen time at all for children under 2. It also encouraged parents to ban all internet devices— including smartphones—from children’s bedrooms. These recommendations apply to entertainment screen time, such as internet, TV and various smart devices, and not educational usage required for school and homework.
• It may expose kids to inappropriate content. My 7-year-old was
Why Should Parents Limit Screen Time?
What Can Parents Do to Limit Screen Time?
• It may interfere with sleep. Electronic stimulation has been
proven to interfere with slumber, both falling asleep and staying asleep. Getting enough z’s is challenging for today’s kids, who often balance school, homework, sports and other extracurricular activities. Throw in a few hours of iPad time on top of all that, and you have a recipe for an overtired kid.
• It may lead to less physical activity. More screen time has been
•
associated with reduced physical activity and higher risk of obesity in kids. After all, you can’t play a game of neighborhood kickball when your nose is pointed to a screen. I t limits social interaction. Kids who are staring at a screen several hours a day are not spending quality time with family and friends (entering each other’s world in Minecraft doesn’t count as quality time). We’re social animals and need face-to-face interaction.
too much screen time may be associated with attention problems. looking up photos of beluga whales on the internet one day— innocent stuff, right? Well, one picture that popped up had a four-letter word, totally unrelated to whales, printed across it. Of course, much worse content is out there on the Web, including references to sex, drugs and violence, plus pedophiles waiting for their prey.
• Set a rule: No electronics until _______ is done. Raytown mom
Melinda Sims says of her three children: “Homework, chores and physical activity come first, and I often tell them to ‘pause it’ to do something for me.”
• Take an active role in your kids’ media usage. Do you know
what your children are doing while they are “plugged in”? Many parents don’t. Familiarize yourself with the games they are playing and watch videos/programs together to make sure they are kidfriendly and to know how long they are.
• Don’t allow electronics in the bedroom. Parents need to monitor
their children’s screen time, and they can’t do that if their kids are holed up in their rooms with their devices. After Lenexa mom Beth Ashby caught her oldest son hiding his Kindle under his pillow and watching SportsCenter in bed, she and her husband
kcparent.com november 2014
31
enacted a new rule: the device must be put on his parents’ dresser at night.
Did You Know?
• Make “off limits” areas and times for media usage. Some examples:
no electronics at mealtimes, during family outings, on vacations and at church (yes, I’ve seen kids playing on devices during a worship service). Recently, my husband and I had a date night, and the family of five seated next to us at the restaurant all had their heads down, on phones and other devices. They hardly spoke ten words to each other during the entire meal.
• Practice what you preach. Ashby says, “I think it’s important for
parents to exhibit restraint. I’ve seen way too many kids trying to get their parents’ attention who just won’t put down their phones or unplug for a bit. I’m guilty, too, on occasion.” Most of us are guilty at times, but kids won’t take our rules seriously if we’re constantly plugged in, too.
• Consider an allowance system. Allot children a certain number of
screen time hours a week (eight is a good number), and allow them to choose whether they use a little each day or save them up for the weekend. This will teach kids to balance their time as they would a monetary allowance, and allows them some control.
Tisha Foley and her husband make sure their two kids balance screen time with plenty of physical activity and reading (real books, the kind you hold in your hand with pages to turn). They make their home in Belton.
Children ages 8-10 spend nearly eight hours a day on various forms of media; older children and teenagers spend more than 11. (American Academy of Pediatrics) For every hour of screen time a child averages a day, their obesity risk rises 6 percent. (ChildrensMercy.org) Children need 60 minutes or more of physical activity each day. Help them achieve this goal by going for family walks or bike rides, playing in the backyard, visiting parks or getting a family membership to your local community center or Y.
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Native American Heritage in KC November is Native American Heritage Month. Learn more about Native American history at these local sites: The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art (4525 Oak St., Kansas City, MO, 816.751.1278) is home to an outstanding permanent Native American collection, but currently their feature exhibition is the Plains Indians: Artists of Earth and Sky (showing through Jan. 11). The distinct Plains aesthetic—singular, ephemeral and materially rich—will be revealed through an array of forms and media: painting and drawing; sculptural works in stone, wood, antler and shell; porcupine quill and glass bead embroidery; feather work; painted robes depicting figures and geometric shapes; richly ornamented clothing; composite works; and ceremonial objects. Fort Osage (107 Osage St., Sibley, MO, 816.650.3278) is a living history site portraying the work and livelihood of Fort Osage residents in the early 1800s. The fort, constructed under the leadership of William Clark, was a Federal outpost in the newly acquired Louisiana Territory. The historic site tells the story of the fort, of Lewis and Clark, the Louisiana Purchase and the Osage tribe. Haskell Indian Nations University Cultural Center & Museum (155 Indian Ave., Lawrence, KS, 785.832.6686). The cultural center offers information on tribal history, art and culture and their influence in Kansas. The center celebrates the living heritage and culture of all tribal peoples today. Shawnee Indian Mission Museum (3403 W. 53rd St., Fairway, KS, 913.262.0867). Shawnee Mission, like many other missions, was established as a manual training school attended by boys and girls from Shawnee, Delaware and other Indian nations from 1839 to 1862. Visit this 12-acre National Historic Landmark and learn the stories of those who lived there.
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HEALTHYKIDS
t
eaching children the importance of a healthy lifestyle can be an unexpectedly slippery slope. It is no surprise that healthy habits start at home, and taking steps to ensure the long-term health of your child starts early. Teaching children to have pride in their nutrition—and not shame—is possible. Here are some tips to get children to not only eat healthy food, but choose it for themselves.
teaching kids to live a healthy lifestyle
Set the example. If a child constantly sees Mom and Dad eating fruit for snacks and taking pride in what they put in their bodies, it reflects onto the child, and he is more likely to reach for that same item when needing a snack. Our children are always watching us, and we are the ultimate example for them. Keep healthy food in the house. Our children can only eat what we buy for them. If we keep the house stocked with candy, chips and fattening foods, our children will be tempted, just like we adults are tempted, to reach for the unhealthy items instead of healthy items. Do not restrict food. Restricting food gives off the notion that some foods are
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good and some are bad. This may increase the likelihood that the child will reach for this food or sneak this food when the parent is not around. It also may increase their risk of developing an eating disorder later in life. Eat meals as a family. Research has shown that when families sit down for meals together, not only do they eat healthier, but the child is less likely to get into trouble as a teenager. It keeps lines of communication open and allows everyone to slow their eating and learn to enjoy their food. Give your children some control. It’s no surprise that children love to have control over any situation that they can, and mealtime is no different. Let them choose
which vegetable they have with dinner or, at the grocery store, find fruit that would be great to pack in their lunches. When introducing a new healthy food, let the child rate it on a scale of 1 to 5. If it receives a high rating, serve it more often; if not, serve it sparingly and let your child know that you value her opinion. Our job as parents is to provide our child the opportunity to eat healthy food, but we cannot force him to eat it. If a child is continually refusing to eat a certain food or food group, continue to offer the food in different ways and don’t stress. Taste buds change all the time! Jessica Heine is a labor and delivery nurse. She lives with her family in Olathe.
Get the juicy details on how much juice is too much for kids at KCParent.com.
psst... we’re busy whipping up a juicy new issue for
december
Welcome to Baby and Child Associates We are a pediatric practice that is located in Kansas City. We currently take infants, children and adolescents up to age 18. Our goal is to give you solid medical advice and treatment in a compassionate and professional way. Our office consists of 4 doctors, all of who are accepting new patients. Baby and Child Associates clinic provides physicals, immunizations and other pediatric services. We look forward to meeting you!
From left to right: Jane Pennington, MD, F.a.a.P., Krista nelson-Cox, MD, F.a.a.P., Warren Jackson, MD, robert rhodes II, MD
Phone: 816-523-0066 Fax: 816-523-0034 hours: Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM After hours calls are taken by nurse
6601 rockhill road suite 105 Kansas City, Mo 64131 We are located in the Research Medical Center Brookside Campus above the Emergency Room (ER).
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refreshers
that take 15 minutes or less
T
here’s nothing like the feeling of having the whole house clean all at once. But who has the time for such a consuming job? You can still enjoy the benefits of refreshment that come with a big cleaning by engaging in quick 15-minute tasks— and indulgences. By doing one each day, you’ll arrive at the end of a month experiencing the same satisfaction as if you’d spent hours. And you won’t be wiped out by the process. Instead, you should feel invigorated! Here are enough ideas to fill a month and get you started. Or swap in a few of your own.
Refresh Yourself
1
Polish your fingernails. Once you’re done, you can combine this with number five (sit with your feet up) while your nails dry. Short on time? Focus on just cleaning off any old polish and trimming nails. Even that little bit can give your hands a fresh feel.
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Take a brisk walk around the block or at a nearby park. Put your kids on a bike or in a wagon or stroller, and you can all benefit.
Place a hold at the library on that book you’ve been meaning to read. Don’t have any titles in mind? Browse through Goodreads for recommendations and create a list for the future by tagging the interesting ones with “to read.”
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Dive into your favorite magazine. Clip out any recipes you want to try or fold over pages containing decorating and other ideas you want to come back to.
Sit with your feet up and rest. If you’re alone or the children are safely occupied, close your eyes (you may want to set an alarm, just in case).
Revitalize Your Spouse
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Leave your spouse a suggestive voicemail on his cell phone or text the same message (prefaced by the warning: “For Your Eyes Only”). Go online and order a fancy massage lotion for your next athome date night. Surprise him or her with a quick car cleanup. Take any extra time to run a vacuum over the floor mats.
Do some extra tidying in the master bedroom to make it extra inviting or relaxing. Put out a candle for soft lighting. Freshen up the bedsheets.
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Fortify Your Kids
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Read a board book or a chapter to your child from a new or untouched book.
Weed out last season’s clothes from one child’s drawers. Tackle one drawer at a time, until time runs out. Write notes to put in your kids’ lunches. Try to write up a few to sprinkle in for each child throughout the week.
Challenge your child to a quick round of her favorite game. Or spontaneously join the kids in playing Legos, Squinkies or another activity they enjoy.
Restore Your Kitchen
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Wipe down the range hood and inside of the microwave. Use any extra time to degrease the handles on the fridge and microwave. Plan your meals for the week, including when you might eat out.
Mix up a batch of brownies. Do this when you’ll be home while they bake.
Sort leftover food and expired condiments to toss from your refrigerator. Keep a wastebasket nearby and make tossing part of the process. When you’re done, wipe down a shelf or two. Come back later for another 15 minutes to wipe out more of the fridge.
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Sweep the kitchen and shake out the rugs. Better yet, toss those rugs in the washing machine for a quick wash cycle to spruce them up.
Invigorate Your Family & Friends
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Call a friend to schedule a coffee date. Text another friend to tell her one thing you think she rocks at.
Write a thank you note to someone for a recent kindness. Phone your mom/grandma/favorite aunt to tell her you love her. Jot a list of fun memories about someone special on fancy stationery. Mail it to him or her.
Enliven Your Calendar/To Do List
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Make a list of errands to be done in the coming week/ month. Pick a day to focus on those errands and schedule it like you would an appointment. Guilt be gone!
Schedule that appointment you’ve been avoiding. While you’re at it, make sure you have up-to-date appointments for everyone else in the family for things like haircuts, dentist, eye doctor and annual physical. Brainstorm a destination for your next family outing or vacation. Check out a travel site for reviews and hot spots to stay or visit there.
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Upload photos from your camera (while technically not a calendar item, it’s one that’s always on our to do lists). Browse through and delete any poor shots or ones you know you won’t use. Recharge the camera battery so it’s ready for an event you want to capture.
Perk Up Your Household
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Dust a room or two. Use a feather duster and see whether you can get through three or four rooms.
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Pull out decorations for the next holiday or season. Purge anything worn out or dated or that you don’t like anymore. If you’ve got the time, go ahead and decorate.
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Clean the crumbs and garbage out of your own car. Clean the dog bowls/fish tank/kitty litter. Don’t have any? Your work is done!
Celebrate your month of refreshment by taking a day to revisit some of the more restorative activities or to engage in a few you’d like to give more attention to. Keep this list and refer to it several times a year when you, your home or your kids are starting to sag. Make note of the one or two refreshers that could work as a regular pick-me-up. And while you won’t have the whole house clean all at once, you will benefit from a sense of accomplishment and ongoing revitalization that just may spur you to tackle the bigger task of a top-to-bottom overhaul later on. Freelance writer Lara Krupicka prefers short bursts of cleaning and organizing because it feels less like work.
Do you feel guilty taking time for yourself? Read “Guilt Busters for Mom” at KCParent.com to help ease the guilt!
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g n i n i redef
r e g n a r t S “ ” r e g n a D
nt It’s a consta have topic. You ur to keep yo e finger on th re are pulse. The rs. no do-ove ke You can’t ta d away a ba s. five minute
P
arents, school officials and law enforcement officers have used the phrase “stranger danger” for decades as way to talk with children about staying safe. But in today’s increasingly social society, where Twitter, Snapchat, Facebook and online gaming blur the line between friends and strangers, the term is quickly becoming irrelevant. “It’s a catchy phrase, but it’s not working,” says Lt. Kelli Bailiff of the Wyandotte County Sheriff ’s Office. She has been working for many years to retire the language. “A child’s perception of what ‘stranger’ means or what one looks like is different from an adult’s.” To illustrate her point, Bailiff uses the example of a person who drives around the neighborhood waving to children. After
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a child sees that person the first day, the driver will return within a day or two, again driving and waving. This time, the child may wave back. “When the perpetrator follows this pattern three or four more times, the child no longer perceives the person as a stranger,” she explains. “Instead, the child begins to view the individual as a nice person who is just driving around and waving. When the perpetrator takes the opportunity to approach the child, the child doesn’t feel the threat of the socalled stranger.” The topic is further muddied by the fact that the majority of crimes against children are committed by someone they know. “It is often not strangers but people who know the child that put them in unsafe situations,” says Anna Brumitt, a professional
school counselor for the Park Hill School District. “I tell students that ‘Not every stranger is a danger, and not everyone you know is safe.’ It’s important to encourage students to trust their feelings and understand that if something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t, even if the person causing the feeling is someone they know.” Sgt. Roy Murry with the Crimes Against Children Unit of the Kansas City Police Department advocates for parents to have open and honest conversations with their children. “Emphasize that anytime someone makes them feel uncomfortable, they should tell Mom and Dad, even if it’s someone the family trusts.” So if “stranger danger” is out, how should parents approach the topic? While most parents have conversations on an asneeded basis, such as when something comes up in the news, they also recognize that it must be an ongoing conversation. “It’s a constant topic,” says Susan Mason, a Kansas City mom of two sons. “You have to keep your finger on the pulse. There are no doovers. You can’t take away a bad five minutes.” The age of a child typically guides the level of conversation. “The discussions of safety tips and rules should start at a very early age,” advises Bailiff. “Build that foundation of open communication. Parents know their child and can adjust the conversation as that child’s behavior and maturity change.” Some parents choose to hold the same conversation with every child in the family, regardless of her age. “We generally talk to our two daughters in the same way because we feel if they hear it the same every time—even if they don’t quite understand it all at once—it will sink in,” explains Parkville mom Della Evans. “At the very least, they will understand the severity and importance of what we are saying.” A child’s personality also plays a role in how parents talk about safety. “My younger son is curious and outgoing, and he will talk to anyone,” says Mason. “With him, we have to be blunt in our conversations. This isn’t the case with our older son. He is usually the one that questions me or my husband when we talk to people we don’t know.” Just as children are urged to talk with their parents if they find themselves in an uncomfortable situation, Murry encourages parents to do the same. “If parents even have an inkling of wrongdoing, they should call their local law enforcement agency and speak with a detective in the related unit. Even if they are not sure a crime has been committed, the detective can offer advice and help sort out the situation. It’s better to be safe than sorry.” While the topic of child safety can be scary and overwhelming, it’s important to employ common sense. “I think I have shown my children what it looks like to cautiously but confidently ask a stranger for directions when needed, such as when we were on vacation and got a little lost,” says Susan McDaniel, a Blue Springs mother of four, who constantly educates her children on staying safe while trying not to be overbearing. “The thought of living in constant fear worries me as much as throwing all caution to the wind.” Mari Rydings is a freelance writer and editor who lives in Platte Woods with her husband, twin daughters and their dog, Nixon. She blogs at MyIdealReality.blogspot.com.
Operation Kidsafe uses the latest digital system to capture a child’s fingerprints, along with a photograph. The information is then printed on a hard copy and handed to the parent for safe-keeping. Should a child become lost or kidnapped, the parent will have the valuable information for law enforcement. Kansas City parents have a unique opportunity as this service is free for the next year at Hendrick Lexus Kansas City. KidSafePrints.com
Playing It Safe Lt. Kelli Bailiff of the Wyandotte County Sheriff’s Office offers these safety strategies.
· Take advantage of “teachable moments” to discuss safety issues relating to children. Use a calm, non-lecturing approach and avoid using the word “stranger.”
· Develop specific plans for your children
to follow in different situations. Role play different scenarios and your action plans often.
· Drop, kick and scream. Show your children how to fight for their lives if they are grabbed. They should put their bottoms on the ground, their feet in the air and kick and scream as loudly as possible. Practice!
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table of contents 41
Over the River
42
Craft Corner
43
The Gifts of Gratitude
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Thanksgiving Hacks
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5 Apps for a Better Thanksgiving
happy thanksgiving! It may be only one day, but Thanksgiving requires lots of planning and prep work. KC Parent’s Thanksgiving Guide has all you need to help make the day as simple and enjoyable as possible.
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Scavenger Hunt
WORDFROMDAD
Over the River
C
“Come on, kids. We’ll be late.” I used to say that. We’d pile into the car with a pie or something special and dash to Grandma’s for Thanksgiving dinner. I enjoyed the food, but I loved spending time with my extended family even more. I knew
the kids would learn this. They’d see how to treasure the holiday and the togetherness. That’s what I used to do. Now, my parents are gone, my siblings have scattered and my first children have grown and are pursuing lives of their own. Sandi and I kept the tradition of Thanksgiving at Grandma’s with James and Ian as long as we could. Ours was a smaller family circle, but we packed boys and goodies into the car and drove to eat with her. For years we did this until she, too, had passed. James took the loss of his grandmother particularly hard and came to me one Thanksgiving morning while the turkey slow-roasted in the oven. “Dad, where are we going?” “Nowhere. We’re staying home.” “Is anyone coming to our house? Aunt Debbie and Uncle Jeff? Devin and Tyler?”
“No, James. They’re staying in Kentucky.” I studied him. “Are you missing Grandma?” He wouldn’t meet my eye, and his voice was small. “Yes.” “So am I.” I put my arm around him. “Tell you what. We’ll set a place for her. Grandma will know she’s welcome, and just because we can’t see her, won’t mean she isn’t here. She’ll have Thanksgiving dinner with us, almost like she used to.” “Are you sure she’ll come?” “Everyone comes home for Thanksgiving.” Our family circle is small and woven with bonds of affection, both acknowledged and unrecognized. We share our Thanksgivings with one another and with the memory of those whom we still love, but cannot see. William R. Bartlett lives in Belton with his family.
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CRAFTCORNER CRAFT
indian corn napkin holders Get your kids involved in decorating the Thanksgiving table this year by making some easy and adorable Indian corn napkin holders. You only need a few materials, and kids of all ages will enjoy creating something to make your Thanksgiving just a little more festive.
Materials Needed:
1
Toilet paper rolls Scissors Buttons Glue Cloth napkins
Step 1: Begin by gathering your toilet paper rolls. Cut the rolls down to the width that you would like your napkin holders.
2
Step 2: Apply white glue in rows on the toilet paper roll and place on small buttons. Add them in random order or create a pattern! Continue adding rows of buttons until the entire roll is covered.
Step 3: Once the glue has fully dried,
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insert cloth napkins in fall colors to complete the project!
Megan Kapple is a blogger from Kansas City, MO, where she lives with her husband and three young daughters. She loves anything DIY and crafty and blogs about her adventures at HomemadeGinger.com.
FAITH&FAMILY
The Gifts of Gratitude
H
How often do your eyes sparkle like your child’s? The simplest things cast a glow on my children’s faces as we explore the world around us. There are frequent moments when they are stupefied with curiosity and wonder, as if their vision is cast in colors I can’t see. It’s a pity my senses are so dulled by the grownup demands that vie for my attention, masquerading in importance and impairing my sight. I want to see as my children see. If the pure in heart are those who see God, it’s no surprise the Kingdom of Heaven belongs to children. I want to take a lesson from them in this month of Thanksgiving and learn to be mindful of the blessings all around me. Mindfulness always begins with intentional attention. This attention opens our senses to a deep language beneath the shallow surface of our daily lives, attuning us more keenly to God’s voice and heart. Deep calls to deep. Cultivating mindfulness and gratitude alongside our children is a way of remembering that “every good and perfect gift is from above.” Lifting our minds to God in awareness of these gifts might take the form of simple prayers, contemplative meditation or gratitude journals. I know of a family that has a tradition of stopping at the sight of nature’s awe-inspiring gifts, hallowing these moments of the divine beauty, glimpsed within the confines of time and space, with an old hymn. They’re the first to admit it sounds a bit cheesy, but I think there’s something sacred and memorable about this small gesture of gratitude to God as, with their children, they stop in the midst of blazing autumn glens and sandy sunlit beaches, to sing:
“Every good and perfect gift is from above.” James ( 1:17) “For the beauty of the earth For the glory of the skies; For the One which from our birth Over and around us lies; Lord of all to Thee we raise This our hymn of grateful praise.” In our family, we sharpen our senses to the blessings around us by creating a family “thankful tree” in the month of November. As we sit around the dinner table, hearts warmed and bellies full, we each write our blessings on colorful construction paper leaves and add them to our tree: “Bonhoepper” (our pet bunny). “Daddy’s crepes.” “Bubble baths.” “Neighbor friends.” “Unicorns.” As we gather the rust-colored paper leaves and paste them into a fiery collage, I find my soul filling up with gladness. It’s as if Technicolor vision infuses my beige adult world. I begin to bask in the abundance teeming all around us, and I get my sparkle back. Wendy Connelly, mother of two, is a graduate student at St. Paul School of Theology, Leawood, and co-founder of the “Live & Let Think” dialogues on Christianity in downtown Kansas City.
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Thanksgiving Hacks: Simple Ways to Prep and Celebrate
w
While there is no real way to “cheat” at entertaining for the holidays, I hope you can use some of these with your family this holiday season.
Does your family even LIKE turkey?
Realization
Hosting the family for Thanksgiving is a lot of work, especially if you have kids at home to care for while trying to prepare. Accept that you might not have magazine-worthy table décor or five-star food. Cook the things you cook well and enjoy cooking—whether or not these are traditional Thanksgiving foods. Outsource or doctor up store-bought items for the rest. Enjoy the time with your family.
Minimization
Think about what aspects of the holiday are the most important to you and focus on those. Does your family even LIKE turkey? Or do they just like all the trimmings? Cook a different main course with the favorite side dishes instead. The butcher can provide any miscellaneous turkey parts you need to make turkey gravy without cooking an actual turkey. Do you really need four or five side dishes? Are cloth napkins and real silverware mandatory? Events can still be elegant and festive without going overboard.
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Delegation
If someone asks whether they can bring something, tell them exactly WHAT to bring and for how many people. Know your invitees: Don’t assign the appetizers to folks who are perpetually late or an important component to someone unreliable. Easy categories to delegate are beverages (adult and/or kid), bread, biscuits or rolls, an appetizer (something light), a specific side dish (preferably one you like to eat but don’t like to cook) or an easy alternate dessert, such as cookies or brownies. If you are planning a potluck, online tools like SignUpGenius.com or Dropbox.com are perfect for organizing who is bringing what. Put the kids to work! When you give kids useful jobs to do, they become more invested in the event. Even young children can help with: Table decorations. Have them gather leaves or pinecones or pick out gourds at the market. (Do this in October when nature is at its autumnal peak around Kansas City.) Table setting. Draw it up on a piece of paper and have the children duplicate it with the real items, or set one place for them to use as the model. Place cards. Children can make the place cards on their own or just color white card stock with fall colored scribbles, and you can print the names over their creations. Pinecones are easy place card holders. Scrubbing potatoes or washing vegetables. Planning activities for other young guests. Preparing a skit or play to perform for the adults after the meal can keep children occupied and gives everyone something to do in between dinner and dessert. Promise to record it for posterity. Announcing the meal and showing guests to the dining area.
Preparation
Clean out your refrigerator!
Making a pie with lattice strips? Press a cooling rack over your rolled dough and you have guidelines for your lattice.
Don’t forget to employ your crock pot if your oven is otherwise occupied. A closed microwave or an extra cooler will help items stay warm. If you end up with extra stuffing, scoop the remainder into muffin tins for perfectly-sized individual leftover servings. Gravy is one of the more difficult Thanksgiving offerings to prepare and time correctly; however, it freezes beautifully. Flour-thickened gravy can be frozen for several months. Reheat in a saucepan while whisking frequently. Put lumpy gravy in the blender. If you want to send your guests home with leftovers, purchase disposable containers ahead of time and put them someplace convenient.
Decoration
Set out holders containing photos of loved ones, maybe from Thanksgivings past? Kids love seeing old pictures of parents and relatives. If you have a photo of each guest who will be in attendance, these make fun place cards as well. Carve an opening into a colorful gourd for a seasonal tea light holder. Those woven construction paper placemats your kids made can add color under your table decorations. Or have them laminated to make great wipe-clean mats for the kids’ table. Place floating candles in a glass bowl filled with water and fresh cranberries.
Celebration
Schedule your preparation so that you have at least 30 minutes to relax, admire your handiwork and get changed before the guests arrive. In reality, this is unlikely, but at least you will have a little cushion. Have your children answer the door and take coats (instruct them on the particulars in advance). Kids can staff a “coat check” with paper tickets they have made. Older children can assist with beverages and appetizers. (HINT: If you want to discourage your guests from congregating in the kitchen, set up a beverage station and appetizers in another room.)
Serving fresh green beans? Snip the ends off a handful at a time with scissors.
Make store-bought items look homemade To mashed potatoes add one or more of the following:
• Sour cream • Chives • Freshly ground pepper • Roasted garlic • Cheddar or cream cheese • Bacon bits • Parsley
To stuffing (or “dressing,” technically, if it is never actually inside a bird) add one or more of the following:
• Chopped almonds and pecans • Chopped canned oysters
• Chicken broth instead of water • Sautéed celery, onion, mushroom, garlic or carrot
• Cooked crumbled sausage • Dried apricots, cranberries, cherries or golden raisins kcparent.com november 2014
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If you don’t like place cards but still want a way to divide your guests among different tables, alternate different colored plates in your buffet stack. Request that your guests sit at the table that is assigned to the color of plate they have chosen.
Donation
Reduce stress by cutting the turkey on your own in the kitchen. You will have more room to work and can arrange the results to your satisfaction on a platter. If the meat seems dry, sprinkle it with broth. If the turkey is not going to double as a table decoration, cook two smaller turkeys or a small turkey and an extra breast—you will have plenty of meat with less thawing, cooking and cooling time.
Laura Miller McEachen is a part-time attorney and a full-time mommy. She lives in Overland Park.
Encourage your guests to bring items for donation to a food pantry or thrift shop. Contact a local organization to ask what they accept. Some will accept perishables that you might have left over.
Once your guests move to the dining area, have extra beverages nearby so you don’t have to go back to the kitchen or bar. To make cleanup easier, fill a cooler or plastic storage bin with warm soapy water to soak pots and serving pieces. Want this out of sight? Put it in the bathtub. Leftover turkey makes great turkey nuggets. Cut pieces of turkey with a cookie or biscuit cutter. Dip them in a few tablespoons of milk mixed with honey and then coat with bread crumbs. Spray a cookie sheet and broil for a few minutes on each side until they brown. Use cranberry sauce for dipping.
Yes, Virginia, there is a Thanksgiving.
Take your family on a journey!
Engage with your family this season with Scripture, puzzles and prayer. Download Thriving Family’s FREE Advent calendar and explore the characters of Christmas.
ThrivingFamily.com/advent
journey manger 2014 ADVENT CALENDAR to the
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5 1
Allrecipes Video Cookbook
One of the most highly trafficked recipe websites, Allrecipes offers an app that allows you to search by course. It also comes with user reviews and ratings and can be saved in your recipe box for later. Tonganoxie mom Desiree Kenney says, “I make a lot of new dishes with that website.”
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KitchenPad Timer
According to Mashable.com, this app provides up to nine different timers (five stovetop and four oven) for the many dishes you’ll need to keep track of. You also can set temperatures and flame height and give each a distinct ringtone. This app currently is only available for Apple products.
apps for a better thanksgiving I love hosting Thanksgiving every year. Hearing my guests’ contented sighs as they bite into my homemade macaroni and cheese or compliment my turkey’s perfect golden brown glaze makes me happy. It takes a lot of work though, so I have my smartphone help me. Many great apps can save you time and energy so that you can spend more of it with your family and less time in the kitchen.
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Ratio
For the cook who realizes halfway into making a dish that she’s short on an ingredient, this is a great app. TheDailyBeast.com describes it as an ingredient calculator. “If you have only one egg and your recipe calls for three, Ratio will do the ingredient math so you can still make your dish, just less of it.” This app is available for iPad, iPhone and Android.
“Many great apps can save you time and energy so that you can spend more of it with your family and less time in the kitchen.” Jennifer Bosse lives in Kansas City with her husband and two children. She loves all things Thanksgiving.
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Celebrate the Holidays with Better Homes and Gardens
When entertaining, we know it’s not just about the food. The atmosphere plays a big part too. This app has 24 complete party plans, including recipes, invitations, decorating ideas, games, activities and easy projects. It even has suggested playlists. You’re covered from A to Z! The best part is that it’s not limited just to Thanksgiving. They have other occasions as well. This app is currently only available for Apple.
5
My motto is “When all else fails, head to Pinterest.” This is the app for everything. The visual appeal of the pins and easy search tools make this a top pick for most. You can type in specifics or browse through categories. From décor to kid friendly games to meal ideas, it’s all there. Plus, storing ideas for later is made simple—just create a special board for future reference. This app is available for Apple and Android.
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fall in
LOVE with the great outdoors exploring Kansas City’s natural beauty this fall
T
he air is crisp, the trees are lovely and nature beckons families to come explore. This autumn, take your family on an outdoor adventure to make irresistible new discoveries!
where to explore: Kansas City’s nature centers offer great free family outings. Take a class, participate in a puppet show, story time or program, go for a nature hike or enjoy indoor activities like watching aquariums, animal exhibits and playing at hands-on learning centers for children. Every nature center in Kansas City is free and open to the public.
F.L. Schlagle Nature Library: (4501 West Dr., Wyandotte County Lake Park, Kansas City, KS, 913.299.2384). This is a year-round interactive library, nature center and nature trail offering scientific, educational, cultural, informational and recreational opportunities to visitors of all ages. George Owens Nature Park: (1601 S. Speck Rd., Independence, MO, 816.325.7115). Enjoy a small nature center, programs for children, fishing dock and trails. John Barkley Visitor Center: (7900 Renner Rd., Shawnee, KS, 913.888.4713). Local and national parks exhibits, fishing dock and trails.
Anita B. Gorman Discovery Center: (4750 Troost Ave., Kansas City, MO, 816.759.7300). The discovery center offers terrific educational programs, and their trails lead to Kauffman Memorial Gardens (a beautiful free garden where something is always in bloom).
Kemper Outdoor Educational Center: (8201 Jasper Bell, Blue Springs, MO, 816.229.8980). The Kemper Outdoor Educational Center is situated near Blue Springs Lake and surrounded by beautiful gardens! Enjoy reptile displays, rock and fossil exhibits, trails, butterfly and water gardens, an arboretum, pond and more.
Burr Oak Woods: (1401 NW Park Rd., Blue Springs, MO, 816.228.3766). Burr Oak Woods is one of our favorite family field trips in Kansas City! One of the largest nature centers in the area, Burr Oak Woods features an animatronic Smokey Bear teaching children fire safety, a large aquarium of Missouri’s freshwater fish, snakes, turtles, toads and more, and wonderful hands-on educational exhibits for children.
Lakeside Nature Center: (4701 E. Gregory Blvd., Kansas City, MO, 816.513.8960). The staff at the center rescue injured animals and keep them in a safe environment. See falcons, owls, eagles, toads, frogs, fish, insects and wonderful exhibits on the animals in our city and in our homes. The nature center also features a gravel trail for walking and exploring.
Burroughs Audubon Nature Center: (7300 W. Park Rd., Blue Springs, MO, 816.795.8177). Located in Fleming Park with Lake Jacomo, the Burroughs Audubon Nature Center is a library and bird watching center complete with guides to identify local birds, binoculars and great viewing areas.
Martha Lafite Thompson Nature Center: (407 N. Lafrenz Rd., Liberty, MO, 816.781.8598). The center is home to nature displays featuring plants and animals, and nature trails.
Cave Springs Nature Center: (8701 E. Gregory Blvd., Kansas City, MO, 816.358.CAVE). This is a small nature center with historic exhibits and scenic walking trails leading to a wildlife habitat pond. Ernie Miller Nature Center: (909 N. Hwy. 7, Olathe, KS, 913.764.7759). Ernie Miller Nature Center offers children’s activities and programs, as well as live animal displays and the chance to participate in hands-on activities and explore nature trails.
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Parkville Nature Sanctuary: (12th & East streets, Parkville, MO, 816.741.7676). Wildlife preserve and education site featuring hiking trails. Prairie Park Nature Center: (2730 Harper St., Lawrence, KS, 785.832.7980). This nature center features fantastic animal exhibits, from reptiles (iguanas, alligators, snakes and more), to amphibians (several species of frogs and toads), to birds (including native birds of prey) and mammals. The hands-on center for preschoolers features nature puppets, puzzles and hands-on activities. The park includes grassland, forest and lake with trails for walking and exploring.
Prairie Oak Nature Center: (14701 Mission Rd., Leawood, KS, 913.681.0902). The small nature center in Ironwoods Park is home to live animals, displays, hands-on activities and nature trails.
what to bring: Enhance your fun with a few simple tools:
• Binoculars • Camera •N ature journal (Leave treasures behind because plants • •
and animals belong in their natural habitats, but do draw or write about what you discover!) Your smart phone, because yes, there’s an app for that! Our scavenger hunt
For tips on how to turn an ordinary walk into an adventure, log onto KCParent.com.
Five Favorite Mobile Apps to Enjoy Nature 1. MO Fall Colors (Free, Android and iPhone) Browse upto-the-minute fall color scenes from places nearby and around the state. Use the GPS info to navigate to them. 2. Map My Hike GPS Hiking (Free, Android and iPhone) Map your hike using this app to track where you’re going and where you’ve been, including distance hiked. 3. WildObs (Free, Android and iPhone) Report sightings and identify species through the National Wildlife Federations’ Wildlife Watch website. 4. iNaturalist (Free, Android and iPhone) Log your wildlife sightings with photos and notes. 5. Plantifier (Free, Android and iPhone) Take a photo of a plant and upload it where experts will help you identify the plant by name. Kristina Light and her girls enjoy nature photography and journaling year-round, but autumn is their favorite!
The 20 Amazing Things Autumn Hunt: Crunchy leaves Your favorite color in nature
Signs of an animal (e.g., tracks, fur, feather)
Four types of insects
Berries
Something an animal would eat
Something noisy in nature
Three types of birds Five different types of trees Something that makes your father say, “That’s cool!” Wildflowers A smooth rock A root
A source of water
Something that makes you smile when you see it
Something fuzzy
Something that makes your mother say, “Ewwww! Gross!” Someplace an animal would live
A twig the size of your thumb Something you’ve never seen before. In fact, you’re not sure what it is. Go home and look it up!
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THE KCPARENT.COM CALENDAR FEATURES OVER 1,000 EVENTS EACH MONTH!
november
CALENDAR
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, UNION STATION!
No part of this calendar may be reproduced in print or web format.
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celebrate
shop
party
watch
stroll
Union Station’s Centennial Celebration continues! Enjoy tons of familyfriendly events on Nov. 1 and 2, including face painting, balloon animals, activity booths, music and more! UnionStation.org
Get great books at bargain prices at the Big Fall Kids Book Sale at the Central Resource Library Nov. 13-15. Most items are under $1. A terrific way to add to your home library. 913.492.4791
Nikita is turning 8 and the Kansas City Zoo is having a polar-sized party to celebrate! Sign a card and enjoy cake to help wish him a Happy Birthday! KansasCityZoo.org
Fireworks set to music light up the sky at the annual Christmas in the Sky on Nov. 26 at Longview Lake Park. After, drive through the Christmas in the Park light display. 816.503.4860
Enjoy a stroll through the Nelson-Atkins Luminary Walk on Nov. 28. Paul Mesner puppets, luminaries throughout the Sculpture Garden and fireside cocoa and concoctions. Free. Nelson-Atkins.org
1 Saturday Scarecrows Are a-Comin’ 9:00, Overland Park Arboretum. A special exhibit to coincide with the display of fall color at the arboretum. 913.685.3604 Holiday Fair 9:00, Platte County High School. Shop handcrafted items along with direct sales vendors. Get a start on holiday shopping! $2. 816.431.6765 Pallet Coaster 9:00, Home Depot stores. Learn how to build a pallet coaster in this free, hands-on workshop. HomeDepot.com Kids and Clay 9:30, Ceramic Café. Kids learn basic skills such as hand building, slab work, pinch pots, etc., and create a fun masterpiece. $16. 913.383.0222 Great Pumpkin Smash 10:00, Kansas City Zoo. Watch as the zoo’s animals crush, play, kick and bounce those big orange pumpkins! KansasCityZoo.org Holiday Dress Up Event 10:00, Children’s Orchard (Olathe, Indep, KCMO, Lee’s Summit & Blue Springs). Get the perfect look for winter at the perfect price. ChildOrch.com Celebrate Sporting Kansas City 10:00, Liberty Corn Maze. Today is the final day to visit the Sporting KC-themed maze! LibertyCornMaze.com Nature Nuts Story Time 10:00, 11:00 & 1:00, Anita B Gorman Conservation Center. Hear nature stories and participate in hands-on activities. 816.759.7300 Mother Nature Reads 10:00, Lakeside Nature Center. Hear a story, learn cool facts about animals and make a craft to take home. 816.513.8960 Open House Today & tomorrow, Union Station. The centennial celebration continues! Face painting, balloon animals, activity booths, music, period entertainment and much more! UnionStation.org Scarecrow Puppet 11:00, Lakeshore Learning. Create a fall scarecrow puppet out of a bag, then take it home and put on a puppet show. Free. 913.432.3998 art + family = FUN 1:00, Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Join us every Saturday and Sunday for free activities for all ages! 816.751.1278
2 Sunday Centennial Celebration 11:00, Union Station. The fun continues today with free family activities throughout Union Station. UnionStation.org Dia de los Muertos Family Festival 1:00, Nelson-Atkins. Celebrate with dancing, artistic demonstrations and art activities. Fun for the entire family! Nelson-Atkins.org Hard Hat Tour 2:30, Kansas City Museum. Take a hard hat tour of Corinthian Hall to see how it looks mid-renovation. KansasCityMuseum.org Public Hayrides 2:30, Shawnee Mission Park. Enjoy the crisp autumn air from a tractor-drawn hay wagon. One-hour ride followed by campfire. Pre-reg at 913.831.3359. kcparent.com november 2014
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Storytelling Celebration
Nov. 5-8, various locations. Enjoy more than 50 storytelling events throughout the metro at the 15th anniversary of the Storytelling Celebration. KCStorytelling.org
3 Monday
4 Tuesday
Moms FREE Monday 9:30, Paradise Park. Moms are free at the Children’s EduTainment Center with a paid child’s admission. 816.246.5224
The Adventures of Nate the Great 10:00, Union Station. Nate’s adventures come to life in a film noir style, complete with a jazz music background. $10. TYA.org
Mommy and Me Bumper Bowling 9:30, Summit Lanes. Bumper bowling for moms & tots. $3/ea includes game, shoe rental and drink. 816.524.3322
Free Play Cedar Ridge Christian Church. Daily free play for young children while parents enjoy a coffee drink. 913.393.3000
Toddler Time 10:00, Bonner Springs Community Center. Bring your kids to play on the large assortment of toys in the gym. $2. 913.422.7010
Walk-in Crafts 10:00, Kookiedoodle Crafts. Choose from a variety of projects, gather materials and create a masterpiece at the store. 913.387.4065
Visit Sea Life 10:00, Sea Life Aquarium (Crown Center). Come nose to nose with sharks and prepare for close views of everything from starfish and seahorses to rays. VisitSeaLife.com
Creative Story Time 11:00, Ceramic Café. Hear a story, create a pottery piece and enjoy a simple snack. 913.383.0222
Welcome Wednesday Notre Dame de Sion Co-ed Grade School Campus. See why children thrive in small class settings taught by skilled teachers. Pre-reg at NDSion.edu.
Unlimited Rides Deal 4:00, Zonkers. Tuesdays and Thursdays after 4:00, receive $3 off unlimited ride wristband OR buy one, get another one half off. 913.393.3535
Cutting Horse Show Thru Friday, Hale Arena (American Royal). Riders cut each day, and the event culminates with finals and bareback cutting on Friday evening. 816.569.4046
Toddler Takeover 10:00, Kansas City North Community Center. Bring your little ones under 4 to run and play in the gym. $1. 816.784.6100
Family Fun Day
all about Hats Sunday, November 9 | 1-3 p.m. Free Learn about the history of hats and hat making through storytelling, creating your own homemade hat and so much more!
The Fairy Princess
The Fairy Princess
Saturdays, December 7, 14, 21 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | $10 Saturdays, December 6, 13, 20 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sundays, December 8, 15,p.m. 22 Sundays, December 7, 14, 21 | Noon-4 $10 per person noon-4 p.m. | $10
The Fairy Princess returns to the Kansas City Museum to spread holiday cheerhistoric the first Fairy three Kansas City Museum’s weekends in December. Your child will share their Princess again spreads holiday wishes with once the Fairy Princess whileholiday getting cheer at the Kansas City their picture taken; listen to holiday Museum. stories and create wonderful holiday memories with and your Fairy family! A complimentary photo
Princess gift is included with your visit.
For Details Visit kansascitymuseum.org
816-483-8300 AT CORINTHIAN HALL
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kansascitymuseum.org
5 Wednesday
Holiday Giveaway! KC Parent
is giving away 2 tickets to the
SUGAR PLUM FAIRY CHILDREN’S BALL at Union Station on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2014 and the 2:00 performance of Kansas City Ballet’s
THE NUTCRACKER at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts immediately following the ball. $250 value. Hurry! Contest ends Nov. 24
Visit KCParent.com and click “Giveaways”
Pixie Skate 9:30, Skate City (Overland Park). A program for ages 6 and under to learn how to skate safely and have fun. $5 includes skate rental and snack. 913.888.6668
Marillac’s Enchanted Forest Thru Sunday, Overland Park Convention Center. A festive display of artificial trees and wreaths that are auctioned off. 913.951.4308
Ghosts in the Night 7:00, Plaza Library. Listen to featured tellers reveal chilling stories of ghosts, ghouls and goblins. Geared toward children. 816.604.3007
Animal Tales Story Time 10:30, Ernie Miller Nature Center. Stories, songs and a visit from a special animal friend. $2/person. 913.764.7759
Sugarplum Festival Thru Saturday, AlbrechtKemper Museum of Art. Annual kickoff to the holiday season. Upscale gift gallery, holiday lunch café and more. 816.233.7003
Major League Improv 7:30, ComedyCity. A comedy sporting event with everything decided upon by the audience. $9-$13. 816.842.2744
7 Friday
Little Mermaid 7:30, the Folly Theater. Heart of America Youth Ballet performs this beloved tale of Ariel and Prince Eric. FollyTheater.org
Storytelling Celebration 10:30, MCPL (Excelsior Springs). Sit on the edge of your seat as you are led into new worlds through words and stories. Pre-reg at 816.630.6721. Kansas Volleyball 6:30, Horejsi Family Athletics Center. Watch as the Jayhawks take on Baylor. Multiple ticket options. 785.864.7953
6 Thursday Open Gym 9:00, Indian Creek Community Church. Open gym time for kids through age 7. Ride on toys and play with balls, blocks and more. Free. IndianCreek.org Spark Lab 11:00, Science City (Union Station). Visit Science City and the newest exhibit, Spark Lab. Hands-on activity center to learn the invention process. UnionStation.org
Opening Day 6:00-9:00, Crown Center Ice Terrace. KC’s only public outdoor rink opens for its 42nd season. Enjoy free skating, coffee and hot chocolate. 816.247.8411 Mistletoe Madness Today & tomorrow, 9:00, Gamber Center. Cross a name off of your gift list by shopping lots of retailers in one spot. 816.969.1581 First Fridays 5:00, Crossroads Art District. Galleries and shops remain open the first Friday of each month. KCCrossroads.org Owl Prowl 7:00, Ernie Miller Nature Center. Enjoy an informative talk featuring live owls and an evening hike through the park. Pre-reg at JCPRD.com.
Full Moon Walk 8:00, Overland Park Arboretum. Bring the family, a flashlight and binoculars to this nighttime star gazing event. 913.685.3604
8 Saturday Farmers Market 7:30, Downtown Overland Park. Shop for fresh produce, flowers and more. Free. 913.642.2222 Children’s Story Workshop 9:30 & 10:30, MCCMaple Woods Student Center. Kids will have a great time learning how to spice up their stories. 816.604.3007
Thodos Dance Chicago A Light in the Dark (Helen Keller’s story) 8 p.m., Saturday, November 8 | Yardley Hall Youth Prices Available! Breathtaking athleticism, mesmerizing music and vibrant choreography. “Thodos Dance’s ‘Helen Keller’ is a feast for the senses … this is a work of tremendous empathy that literally animates a true story.” — Chicago Sun-Times
2014-2015 Performing
Arts
Series
jccc.edu/TheSeries | 913-469-4445 Performing Arts Series | Johnson County Community College NO ONLINE FEES | FREE PARKING | BEER AND WINE AVAILABLE
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Wonderpalooza 10:30, Wonderscope. Enjoy a special performance by Doo Dad Mike. Different performers each month. 913.287.8888 Second Saturdays 11:00, Grinter Place State Historic Site. Learn about KC-area history and stay for lunch prepared on the wood stove. 913.299.0373 Harvest Headdress 11:00, Lakeshore Learning. Use bright fall colors and leaves to create a harvest headdress. Free. 913.432.3998 Holiday Open House 4:00, Downtown Weston. Downtown shops are open late and dressed for the holidays. Father Christmas arrives to begin the holiday season. WestonMO.com Lecture with Dessert Reception 7:00, The Culture House. Join us for an evening with Dr Jim Mill, Creative Arts Europe. Dessert reception following. Free. 913.393.3141 Thodos Dance 8:00, Yardley Hall (JCCC). Twelve dancers bring the story of Helen Keller to life through vibrant choreography and mesmerizing music. JCCC.edu
BIG Fall
9 Sunday Community Yard Sale 8:00, City Market. Bring antiques, collectibles or gently used items to sell in this city-wide event. 816.842.1271
Toddler Time 10:00, Bonner Springs Community Center. Bring your kids to play on the large assortment of toys in the gym. $2. 913.422.7010
Xtreme Bugs Noon, Union Station. Get up close and personal with massive, moving insects to discover their unique behaviors. UnionStation.org Football Fundays Noon, Paradise Park. With 15 TVs, Paradise Park is the best places to watch the big game each week. 816.246.5224
Power Hour 1:00, Little Monkey Bizness. Arrive between 1:00 and 3:00 on Mondays and Wednesdays and admission is just $5 plus tax! 913.631.7000
11 Tuesday
Family Fun Day 1:00, Kansas City Museum. Explore historic hat fashions and designs through arts, crafts, games and more. Free admission. 816.513.0720
Veterans Day Thank a veteran for his or her service to our nation!
10 Monday Veterans Day Breakfast Celebration 8:30, Matt Ross Community Center. Join the color guard as they carry the flag to honor veterans. Breakfast by Chris Cakes. Pre-reg at 913.642.6410.
Kids
Walk-in Crafts 10:00, Kookiedoodle Crafts. Choose from a variety of projects, gather materials and create a masterpiece at the store. 913.387.4065
UPHA American Royal National Championship Thru Saturday, Kemper Arena. The best saddlebreds, hackney ponies and road horses compete. AmericanRoyal.com Story Time for Preschoolers 9:30, MCPL (Liberty Branch). Explore the first steps toward reading readiness for you and your preschooler (ages 3-5). Free. 816.781.9240
Book Sale NEW LOCATION!
Thursday, Nov. 13 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 14 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 15 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Carmack Community Room @ Central Resource Library 9875 W. 87th St. Overland Park, KS 66212
Most items 25¢ to $1 • Some items specially priced
Friends Only Preview Wednesday, Nov. 12 4-8 p.m. Library
Presented by Johnson County Library and Friends of the Johnson County Library. Call (913) 492-4791 for more information.
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FRIENDS
of the
www.jocolibrary.org/friends
Meet the Octonauts Thru Nov 23, Sea Life Aquarium. Meet Peso from the Octonauts on your visit to Sea Life. VisitSeaLife.com Leaf Leaping 10:00, Burr Oak Woods. Join the fun as we play in a forest blanketed by colorful fallen leaves. Babies under 36 mos. Pre-reg at 816.228.3766. Coffee Playground 10:00, OP First Assembly of God. Free play in the gym for kids 5 and under. Inflatables, scooters, balls and other toys! OverlandParkMOPS.com Veterans Day Parade 10:30, Downtown Leavenworth. Attend the largest and oldest Veterans Day parade west of the Mississippi! 913.682.4113 Creative Story Time 11:00, Ceramic Café. Hear a story, create a pottery piece and enjoy a simple snack. 913.383.0222
12 Wednesday Pop ‘n Play 9:00, Johnson County Museum. A drop-in program with age-appropriate activities for children 9 months to 3 years old. 913.715.2550
TRAIN RIDES Truly unique gifts for this holiday season!
Kids under three FREE
Mention this ad to receive
25
% off
second item of equal or lesser value
Santa Train
Departures are 9 am, 11 am, and 1 pm., Sat., Nov. 29 and Sat., Dec. 6, 2014 Check website for price. Reservation required for this event.
2014 WINNER
family faves May be combined with 1/2 studio fee offers only. Good thru 11/30/14.
paintglazeandfire.net 127th & Metcalf • Overland Park, KS 913-661-CLAY
Charters • Field Trips or Birthday Parties, plan by appointment.
Belton, Grandview & Kansas City Railroad Co. 502 Walnut •Belton, Missouri 816-331-0630 • www.beltonrailroad.org
Tickets go on sale one hour before train departure time. kcparent.com november 2014
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Walk-in Crafts
Daily, Kookiedoodle Crafts. Choose from a variety of projects, gather materials and create a masterpiece at the store. 913.387.4065
Free Play Cedar Ridge Christian Church. Daily free play for young children while parents enjoy a coffee drink. 913.393.3000 Baby Bounce Story Time 9:30, Plaza Branch. A special story time for babies (newborn to 18 months) with parent or caregiver. 816.701.3481 Pixie Skate 9:30, Skate City (Overland Park). A program for ages 6 and under to learn how to skate safely and have fun. $5 includes skate rental and snack. 913.888.6668 Homes of Note Tour 10:00, Tiffany Greens. The Kansas City Symphony Guild presents this annual tour featuring homes in the Northland decorated for the holidays. KCSymphonyGuild.org Hard Hat Tour 2:00, Kansas City Museum. Take a hard hat tour of Corinthian Hall to see how it looks mid-renovation. KansasCityMuseum.org
13 Thursday Kids Book Sale Thru Saturday, Carmack Community Room (Central Resource Library). Grab loads of great books at terrific prices. Most items $0.25 to $1. JOCOLibrary.org/friends Open Gym 9:00, Indian Creek Community Church. Open gym time for kids through age 7. Ride on toys and play with balls, blocks and more. Free. IndianCreek.org Story Time for Babies 9:15, MCPL (Liberty Branch). A fun, engaging story time for babies to help instill a foundation for early literacy. Free. 816.781.9240 Museum Highlights 2:00, Nat’l Frontier Trails Museum. Explore a variety of topics focusing on westward expansion in a 30-minute guided tour. 816.325.7575
Yo Gabba Gabba 3:00 & 6:00, Midland Theatre. The coolest rock concert for parents and kids. Music is awesome! YoGabbaGabbaLive.com Unlimited Rides Deal 4:00, Zonkers. Tuesdays and Thursdays after 4:00, receive $3 off unlimited ride wristband OR buy one, get another one half off. 913.393.3535 Canvas Class 7:00, Paint, Glaze & Fire. Enjoy an evening of creative fun with friends. BYOB if you’d like. Adults-only class. Pre-reg at 913.661.2529.
Operation Christmas Child kids helping kids
National Collection Week is Nov. 17-24 1. Choose a Box
4. Include Your Donation
Use an empty shoe box (standard size, please) or a small plastic container. You can wrap the box (lid separately), but wrapping is not required. Most importantly, pray for the child who will receive your gift.
Please donate $7 or more for each shoe box you prepare to help cover shipping and other project costs. You can give online by using the “Follow Your Box Donation” option, or you can write a check to Samaritan’s Purse (note “OCC” on memo line) and place it in an envelope on top of the gift items inside your box.
2. Boy or Girl? Determine whether your gift will be for a boy or a girl, and the child’s age category: 2-4, 5-9 or 10-14. Print out the appropriate boy/girl label by downloading the artwork at SamaritansPurse.org. Mark the correct age category on the label and tape the label to the top of your box.
3. Fill with Gifts Fill the box with a variety of gifts that will bring delight to a child. Ideas include small toys, school supplies, hygiene items, hard candy, ball caps, hair clips, etc. You can even include a personal note to the child receiving the box.
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5. Drop Off Place a rubber band around each closed shoe box and drop off at the collection center nearest you during our collection week, Nov. 17-24.
For locations and hours of collection, visit SamaritansPurse.org. There you can find the nearest place to take your shoe box by entering your ZIP code, or you can call 1.800.353.5949.
14 Friday
15 Saturday
Toddler Time 9:30, Sky Zone. If you can walk, then you can jump! Toddler Time is for the little ones to have their own jump time. $7. 913.213.5900
Nikita’s Birthday Party 10:00, Kansas City Zoo. Nikita’s turning 8, and we’re having a polar sized party just for him! KansasCityZoo.org
Toddler Takeover 10:00, Kansas City North Community Center. Bring little ones ages 2 to 5 to run and play in the gym. $1/child. 816.784.6100 Preview Weekend Thru Sunday, The Ice at Park Place. Take a spin on the ice before it opens for the season. ParkPlaceLeawood.com/events/ice Story Time 11:00, Reader’s World Lee’s Summit. Every Friday enjoy story time with a story, crafts and a snack. Free. 816.246.7323 Ladies Night 2:00, Family Tree Nursery. Enjoy live music, refreshments and best of all, 20% off entire regularly priced purchase. FamilyTreeNursery.com Second Friday Art Crawl 5:00, Downtown Excelsior Springs. Enjoy feature artists, music, dining and shopping. 816.630.6161
Two-Day Baby Buck Sale Today & tomorrow, Children’s Orchard (Olathe, Indep, KCMO, Lee’s Summit & Blue Springs). Particular resale items NB to 18 months are now only $1! ChildOrch.com Scavenger Saturdays 10:00, Kemper Museum of Art. Follow the clues on this “ART-astic” adventure! 816.753.5784 Kristkindlmarkt 10:00, Turners-GACA. German Christmas craft fair. Dancers, singers, holiday shopping and lunch. GACAOfKC.org
Mother Nature Reads 10:00, Lakeside Nature Center. Hear a story, learn cool facts about animals and make a craft to take home. 816.513.8960 Thanksgiving Tea Party 10:30, Anna Marie’s Teas. Invite your friends, family and loved ones to join you at a special Thanksgiving tea party. Pre-reg at 816.792.8777. Family Picture Tree 11:00, Lakeshore Learning. Kids color and create a family tree. Personalize with photos of your family! Free. 913.432.3998 The Pioneer Experience 1:00, Frontier Army Museum. Interactive programs of storytelling, crafts, games and more. Free fun for entire family! 913.684.3191
MOPS Fall Boutique 10:00, Indian Creek Community Church. Stop by to tackle some holiday shopping. Lots of great, local items for sale. MOPSAtTheCreek.Blogspot.com
Talkin’ Turkey 1:00, Burr Oak Woods. Take flight with this colorful bird and uncover some turkey myths along the way. 816.228.3766
Nature Nuts Story Time 10:00, 11:00 & 1:00, Anita B Gorman Conservation Center. Hear nature stories and participate in hands-on activities. 816.759.7300
Kids Team Up for Art 1:30, Northeast and Southeast libraries. Children in K-8th grade are invited to tap their creative energies and create art masterpieces. WCAKC.org
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Major League Improv 7:30, ComedyCity. A comedy sporting event with everything decided upon by the audience. $9-$13. 816.842.2744
16 Sunday Community Yard Sale 8:00, City Market. Bring antiques, collectibles or gently used items to sell in this city-wide event. 816.842.1271 Santa’s Wonderland Thru Dec 24, Bass Pro Shop. Enjoy an interactive play area, make crafts, write letters to the North Pole and visit Santa. BassPro.com art + family = FUN 1:00, Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Join us every Saturday and Sunday for free activities for all ages! 816.751.1278
17 Monday Mommy and Me Bumper Bowling 9:30, Summit Lanes. Bumper bowling for moms & tots. $3/ea includes game, shoe rental and drink. 816.524.3322 Toddler Time 10:00, Bonner Springs Community Center. Bring your kids to play on the large assortment of toys in the gym. $2. 913.422.7010 The Fall Harvest 10:00, Mt Gilead School. A program for homeschool students. Learn about the fall harvest of an old-fashioned era. $10. 816.736.8500
Moonlight
MADNESS S A L E
STORES OPEN 10PM ON THANKSGIVING. SAVE 25% TO 65% AT OVER 100 STORES INCLUDING: Coach Outlet • Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5TH Banana Republic Factory Store • Gap Outlet Bath & Body Works • J.Crew | crewcuts Helzberg Diamonds Outlet • Nike Factory Store Cole Haan • Polo Ralph Lauren Factory Store Tommy Hilfiger • Under Armour® Factory House Soma Intimates Outlet • White House | Black Market Outlet And many more...
I-435, Exit Parallel Pkwy West 913.788.3700 • LegendsShopping.com
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kcparent.com november 2014
Power Hour 1:00, Little Monkey Bizness. Arrive between 1:00 and 3:00 on Mondays and Wednesdays and admission is just $5 plus tax! 913.631.7000
18 Tuesday Xtreme Bugs 10:00, Union Station. Get up close and personal with massive, moving insects to discover their unique behaviors. UnionStation.org Coffee Playground 10:00, OP First Assembly of God. Free play in the gym for kids 5 and under. Inflatables, scooters, balls and other toys! OverlandParkMOPS.com Tots on Tuesday 11:00, Kemper Museum. Bring in your preschooler for a fun and fashionable get-together every third Tuesday. 816.753.5784 Creative Story Time 11:00, Ceramic Café. Hear a story, create a pottery piece and enjoy a simple snack. 913.383.0222 Unlimited Rides Deal 4:00, Zonkers. Tuesdays and Thursdays after 4:00, receive $3 off unlimited ride wristband OR buy one, get another one half off. 913.393.3535
19 Wednesday Pixie Skate 9:30, Skate City (Overland Park). A program for ages 6 and under to learn how to skate safely and have fun. $5 includes skate rental and snack. 913.888.6668 Visit Sea Life 10:00, Sea Life Aquarium (Crown Center). Come nose to nose with sharks and prepare for close views of everything from starfish and seahorses to rays. VisitSeaLife.com
Animal Tales Story Time 10:30, Ernie Miller Nature Center. Stories, songs and a visit from a special animal friend. $2/person. 913.764.7759
NOW OPEN
Grandma’s Yellow Pie Plate 2:00, Corinth Library. A class to help with making decisions about personal property. Pre-reg at 913.826.4600. Fresh Beat Band Concert 6:30, Midland Theatre. The Fresh Beat Band is back on the road to perform their greatest hits. FreshBeatBandLive.com
20 Thursday Step into the world of
Stella 10:00 & 11:30, the Folly Theater. Stella, Queen of the Snow, tells the story of two children as they spend the day playing in the snow. 816.474.4444
larger-than-life animatronic insects!
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer 10:00 & Noon, the Coterie. The beloved TV classic soars off the screen and onto the stage this holiday season. TheCoterie.org Ararat Shrine Circus Thru Sunday, Municipal Auditorium. Four days to experience the fun and the thrills of this circus! KCShrineCircus.com Youth Arts and Crafts 4:00, Garrison Community Center. Youth ages 14-18 can embrace their creativity through drawing, painting, sketching and more. 816.784.1140
UnionStation.org
Prices as low as $7 .5 0
Presented by Bank Midwest
3rd Thursdays 5:00, Martin City Business District. Shops open with special offers, so be sure to visit them all. MartinCity.WordPress.com Teen Cuisine 6:00, MCPL (Excelsior Springs). Learn how to make different edible masterpieces and chow down. Free, but must pre-reg at 816.630.6721. Kansas Volleyball 6:30, Horejsi Family Athletics Center. Watch as the Jayhawks take on Iowa State. Multiple ticket options. 785.864.7953
Union Station Holidays Celebration
Shrek the Musical Thru Saturday, Indian Creek Community Church. Enjoy an ogre-sized night of family fun! Culture House presents. CultureHouse.com Seussical Jr 7:00, Northland Mission Auditorium. Come enjoy a fun-filled show as the Cat in the Hat tells the story of Horton. $8-$14. 816.401.0040
21 Friday Toddler Time 9:30, Sky Zone. If you can walk, then you can jump! Toddler Time is for the little ones to have their own jump time. $7. 913.213.5900
Nov. 22, 2014 – Jan. 4, 2015
Nov 22
Join us for events all season,
beginning
Nov. 22
with the annual
Holiday Lighting Ceremony!
Nov 29
Holiday Choir Sing Along
DEC 6
Santa in Science City
DEC13
Polar Express Pajama Party
DEC14
Holiday Dance Showcase
DEC 18-21
Kansas City Southern’s Holiday Express Train with Santa
DEC 31
Visit LEGOLAND 10:00, LEGOLAND Discovery Center. Spend the day creating with Legos. Be sure to visit the newly remodeled Lego Friends area. 816.471.4386
Noon Year’s Eve in Science City
Full schedule at
UnionStation.org Fun for the whole family!
Walk-in Crafts 10:00, Kookiedoodle Crafts. Choose from a variety of projects, gather materials and create a masterpiece at the store. 913.387.4065 Holiday Open House Thru Sunday, Family Tree Nursery. The garden center is transformed into a winter wonderland! FamilyTreeNursery.com
Union Station Holiday Lighting Ceremony Kiss Under the Clock with 99.7 The Point’s Kelly Urich
Holiday memories!
Indoor train rides for the kids!
St. Nick Kia Bondurant Photography. As kids share their wish list with Santa we will capture the sweetness and fun. KiaBondurant.com kcparent.com november 2014
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take note: november ’14
Nov. 1: Book Lover’s Day: Head to Rainy Day Books (2706 W. 53rd St., Fairway, KS, 913.384.3126) and ask the staff to recommend your next great read.
Nov. 4: King Tut Day: Celebrate Nov. 8: Cook Something Bold Day: Make ahead your own freezer meals with a delicious and award winning menu full of tasty, surprising and nutritious dishes at Dream Dinners (119th & Metcalf, 913.491.6733).
Egypt’s most famous pharaoh with an exploration of Egyptian art at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art (4525 Oak St., Kansas City, MO, 816.751.1278).
Nov. 11: Veterans Day: Celebrate at the National World War I Museum at Liberty Memorial (100 W. 26th St., Kansas City, MO, 816.888.8100) with a ceremony commemorating America’s veterans at 10:00 and a ceremony to recognize those who have had bricks purchased via the Walk of Honor program at 1:00. The museum will be open from 10:00 to 5:00, and admission will be free all day. Nov. 17: Take a Hike Day: There are many great places to hike in the metro! Search “Get Lost in the Woods” on KCParent.com to find a great trail nearby.
Nov. 22: Go for a Ride Day: Head to Independence for a horse-drawn wagon ride with Pioneer Trails Adventures (PioneerTrailsAdventures.com), or take a historic trolley tour of Kansas City with KC Fun Trolleys (KCFunTours.com).
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Nov. 27: Thanksgiving Day: It’s a day of gratitude and family. Finish it off with a Kansas City tradition as the Country Club Plaza Christmas lights are lit for the season!
Nov. 30: Stay Home Because You Are Well Day: Tempting isn’t it? Enjoy the cozy comforts of home with some hot cocoa, a family game, a great book or movie.
Mayor’s Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
Nov. 28, 5:30, Crown Center. The 100-foot mayor’s Christmas tree is lit up to kick off the holiday season. CrownCenter.com
Opening Day 11:00, The Ice at Park Place. Johnson County’s only outdoor skating rink opens for the season. ParkPlaceLeawood.com/events/ice 3rd Friday Art Walk 5:30, Englewood Station. The galleries open their doors to art lovers every third Friday of the month. EnglewoodStation.com Good-night Zoo 6:00, Kansas City Zoo. Enjoy a night of exploration, songs and educational games and activities. Ages 3-5. Pre-reg at KansasCityZoo.org Mayor’s Tree Lighting 6:30, Howard Station Park. Get in the holiday spirit with hot chocolate and cookies, Santa and Christmas lights. Free. 816.246.6598 A Christmas Carol Thru Dec 26, Spencer Theatre. The KC Rep’s performance returns for its 34th season. A favorite holiday tradition! KCRep.org
22 Saturday Farmers Market 7:30, Downtown Overland Park. Shop for fresh produce, flowers and more. Free. 913.642.2222 St Jude Give Thanks Walk 10:00, KCP&L District. Walk to raise money for St Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital. Fundraising.StJude.org Mother Nature Reads 10:00, Lakeside Nature Center. Hear a story, learn cool facts about animals and make a craft to take home. 816.513.8960 Adventures of Nate the Great 10:30, Wonderscope. Theatre for Young American performs. Free show with museum admission. 913.287.8888 Tellebration 2014 10:30, Ernie Miller Nature Center. Hear nature stories with live animals to celebrate International Day of Storytelling. $3/person. 913.764.7759
Kansas City’s Holiday
Giving Thanks Centerpiece 11:00, Lakeshore Learning. Thanksgiving is almost here. Kids will make a darling turkey to place on the holiday table. Free. 913.432.3998 Kiss Under the Clock Noon, Union Station. 4th annual radio remote with 99.7 The Point. Holiday lighting ceremony at 5:25 plus lots of events throughout the day. UnionStation.org
Lighting Ceremonies: 2014
Northern Lights Holiday Lighting Ceremony: Nov. 22, 6:00, Zona Rosa Town Square, I-29 & Barry Rd., Kansas City, MO. Zona Rosa will once again kick off the holiday season with a special lighting ceremony to spotlight the large crowns Overland Park Mayor’s Christmas Tree Lighting: Nov. 21, 5:30-7:30, Historic Overland Park clock tower, 7315 W. 79th, hung above the streets, as well as the featured 50-foot Overland Park, KS. Each year, Mayor Carl Gerlach chooses a Christmas tree in Town Square. The community is invited to the free program, including the official arrival of the holiday charity to support and presents them with a check at the Fairy Princess, Santa Claus & Mrs. Claus! ceremony. Along with the check presentation, there are carolers, dancers, bell ringers and treats for everyone. Christmas in the Sky: Nov. 26, 5:00-9:00, Longview Lake Park, I-470 to View High Drive, Kansas City, MO. Jackson Lee’s Summit Mayor’s Tree Lighting: Nov. 21, 6:30-9:00, County Parks and Rec and 99.7 The Point kick off your Downtown Lee’s Summit Main Street. Join the mayor of holiday season and the opening of Christmas in the Park, Lee’s Summit as he lights the downtown district. Free hot with Christmas in the Sky. This magical evening showcases chocolate and cookies, choir performances, a visit from holiday entertainment and an amazing fireworks display, Santa, Mrs. Claus and their elves, and much more will get synchronized to your favorite holiday music and simulcast on you in the holiday spirit. Participate in the Merry & Bright: 99.7 The Point. Wrap Yourself in Lights Contest, visit with Santa, then shop From mid-November to mid-December all across the Kansas City metro, switches are flipped, and the city is decked out in holiday splendor!
It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas!
participating businesses open late and eat at downtown restaurants. NOTE: We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of this information. However, you should always call ahead to confirm dates, times, location and other information, especially with the possibility of weather impacts.
Parkville’s 22nd Annual Light Up the Night: Nov. 21, 6:00-9:00, Pocket Park on Main Street, Parkville. Enjoy live entertainment, including Park Hill School District children’s choir, fun things to see and do, delicious dining and treats, plus our famous holiday fireworks. Holiday Lighting Ceremony at Union Station: Nov. 22, 5:00, 30 W. Pershing, Kansas City, MO. Festive entertainment will keep guests occupied until the halls and trees are lit at 6:00. Then, from 6:00 to 8:00, the Mini Holiday Express Train offers free rides that night for all small children. Through the rest of the holiday season, Mini Holiday Express Train rides are free to members but cost $5/ride for non-members.
85th Annual Plaza Lighting Ceremony: Nov. 27, 5:00-8:00, Country Club Plaza, 47th & Wyandotte, Kansas City , MO. Live music, the flip of the Plaza Lights switch and fireworks! The KCP&L Plaza Lights shine daily from 5:00 to 3:00, Thanksgiving through mid-January. Kansas City Mayor’s Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony: Nov. 28, 5:30-9:00, Crown Center Square, 2450 Grand Blvd., Kansas City, MO. The 100-foot-tall mayor’s Christmas tree, one of the nation’s tallest, is the centerpiece for an illuminating holiday celebration. Mayor Sly James and a guest will flip the switch to light the tree. The tree is a symbol of the Mayor’s Christmas Tree Fund, dedicated to assisting the city’s less fortunate. Tip: Catch more lighting ceremonies in early December! Visit the Calendar on KCParent.com for info. kcparent.com november 2014
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Christmas in the Sky
Nov. 26, 5:00, Longview Lake. Fireworks set to music kick off the seasoning and are the opening to Christmas in the Park. 816.503.4860
Etiquette for Girls & Boys 12:30, Jo Co K-State Research and Extension. Class that shows children how to be kind and courteous at the dinner table. $5. 913.715.7000 Turkey Bowling on Ice 2:00, Line Creek Community Center. Win a Thanksgiving turkey by knocking down the most pins with a frozen turkey. 816.505.2423 Christmas in Excelsior Springs Excelsior Springs. Lane of Lights and Hall of Trees open. Evening Christmas parade and mayor’s tree lighting. ESChristmas.com
23 Sunday Community Yard Sale 8:00, City Market. Bring antiques, collectibles or gently used items to sell in this city-wide event. 816.842.1271 Xtreme Bugs Noon, Union Station. Get up close and personal with massive, moving insects to discover their unique behaviors. UnionStation.org
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Santa’s Wonderland Thru Dec 24, Bass Pro Shop. Enjoy an interactive play area, make crafts, write letters to the North Pole and visit Santa. BassPro.com
24 Monday Moms FREE Monday 9:30, Paradise Park. Moms are free at the Children’s EduTainment Center with a paid child’s admission. 816.246.5224 Mommy and Me Bumper Bowling 9:30, Summit Lanes. Bumper bowling for moms & tots. $3/ea includes game, shoe rental and drink. 816.524.3322 Toddler Takeover 10:00, Kansas City North Community Center. Bring your little ones under 4 to run and play in the gym. $1. 816.784.6100
25 Tuesday Jingle Arrgh the Way 10:00, H&R Block, City Stage. Theatre for Young America presents this musical adventure that goes all the way to the North Pole. $10. TYA.org Coffee Playground 10:00, OP First Assembly of God. Free play in the gym for kids 5 and under. Inflatables, scooters, balls and other toys! OverlandParkMOPS.com
Creative Story Time 11:00, Ceramic Café. Hear a story, create a pottery piece and enjoy a simple snack. 913.383.0222 A Christmas Carol with Gerald Dickens 2:00, Midwest Genealogy Center. The greatgrandson of Charles Dickens performs a dramatic retelling of the classic tale. MyMCPL.org Unlimited Rides Deal 4:00, Zonkers. Tuesdays and Thursdays after 4:00, receive $3 off unlimited ride wristband OR buy one, get another one half off. 913.393.3535
Walk-in Crafts 10:00, Kookiedoodle Crafts. Choose from a variety of projects, gather materials and create a masterpiece at the store. 913.387.4065
Parkville Turkey Trot 9:00, English Landing Park. Participate in the 27th annual Turkey Trot. No strollers or dogs allowed. ParkvilleTurkeyTrot.org
Christmas in the Sky 5:00, Longview Lake Park. Fireworks set to music kick off the season and are the opening to Christmas in the Park. Free. 816.503.4860
85th Annual Plaza Lighting Ceremony 5:00, Country Club Plaza. Enjoy a holiday tradition like no other. CountryClubPlaza.com
27 Thursday THANKSGIVING DAY
26 Wednesday
Free Play Cedar Ridge Christian Church. Daily free play for young children while parents enjoy a coffee drink. 913.393.3000
create memories this year at ceramic cafe! special event
BREAKFAST WITH SANTA
28 Friday Holiday Happenings 10:00, Union Station. Mini Rudy train rides, model train holiday display, Elf on Extreme Screen and more! UnionStation.org
Pop ‘n Play 9:00, Johnson County Museum. A drop-in program with age-appropriate activities for children 9 months to 3 years old. 913.715.2550
Baby Bounce Story Time 9:30, Plaza Branch. A special story time for babies (newborn to 18 months) with parent or caregiver. 816.701.3481
Moonlight Madness, 10:00, Legends Outlets. Stores open at 10:00. Lots of great deals to kick off the holiday shopping season. LegendsShopping.com
.
CHECK OUT KC PARENT’S 10-PAGE THANKSGIVING GUIDE ON PAGE 40.
10th annual
Victorian Christmas Magic 10:00, Vaile Mansion. Tour the elegant rooms decorated with elves, pixies, snowmen and fairies in a magical setting. $2-$6. 816.325.7430 Paint Me a Story 10:30, Paint, Glaze & Fire. Paint a pottery piece that goes along with a favorite story. Snack included. $13-$15. Pre-reg. 913.661.2529
Luminary Celebration
Featuring the Paul Mesner Puppets, Sculpture Park luminary walk and fireside cocoa and concoctions. November 28, 5–9 p.m. | FREE
Sat. Nov. 29th – 8 to 10:30 ceramiccafekc.com/special-events 95th & Mission Road
913.383.0222
45th & Oak, 3 blocks east of the Plaza nelson-atkins.org kcparent.com november 2014
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Bright Light Friday 10:30, Plaza Library. Bring friends and family to a free, post-Thanksgiving tradition featuring Mr Stinky Feet. 816.701.3481
Give and Save Bank 9:00, Home Depot Stores. Learn how to build a grow and save bank in this free, hands-on workshop. HomeDepot.com
Wizard of Oz Today & tomorrow, Puppetry Arts Institute. See the beloved story of Dorothy and Toto brought to life with puppets. Hazelle.org
Whooville Holidays 10:00, City Market. Calling Whos of all ages! Celebrate the season with the Grinch and Cindy Lou Who. Free. 816.842.1271
Mayor’s Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony 5:30, Crown Center. The 100-foot mayor’s Christmas tree is lit up to kick off the holiday season. CrownCenter.com
Cool Catch Penguin 11:00, Lakeshore Learning. Create a fun penguin game with a paper plate and Styrofoam cup. Free. 913.432.3998
Candlelight Tour 6:00, Strawberry Hill Museum. Tour the museum at night when it’s illuminated using Victorian oil lamps. $15. Pre-reg at 913.371.3264.
29 Saturday Breakfast with Santa 8:00, Ceramic Café. Create, paint and have your photo taken with Santa! 913.383.0222 Santa Train 9:00, 11:00 & 1:00, Belton, Grandview & KC RR. Get your tickets early for a special train ride and visit from Santa. 816.331.0630
Family Geocaching 1:00, Burr Oak Woods. Learn the basics of geocaching and then set out in search of secret caches. Pre-reg at 816.228.3766. A Christmas Carol Thru Dec 26, Spencer Theatre. The KC Rep’s performance returns for its 34th season. A favorite holiday tradition! KCRep.org Luminary Walk 5:00, Overland Park Arboretum. A mile of candlelit trails through the gardens and woods in a nighttime setting. 913.685.3604 Holiday Candlelight Tour 6:00, Harris-Kearney House. Celebrate a 19th-century Christmas with this historic tour. WestportHistorical.com
Dance
daddy & daughter
with special guests
Queen Elsa & Olaf
fri., feb. 6 & sat., feb. 7, 2015 6-9 pm providence community church 10113 lenexa drive 913.307.0710 www.sovgracekc.org/dance
Kansas Volleyball 8:00, Horejsi Family Athletics Center. Watch as the Jayhawks take on Oklahoma. Multiple ticket options. 785.864.7953
30 Sunday Ice Skating Noon, The Ice at Park Place. Bundle up the family and enjoy a spin on Johnson County’s only outdoor rink. 913.663.2070 Santa’s Christmas Crayola Land Noon, Crown Center. Kids play on super-sized Crayola products while waiting to tell Santa their holiday wishes. 816.247.8444 Santa’s Wonderland Thru Dec 24, Bass Pro Shop. Enjoy an interactive play area, make crafts, write letters to the North Pole and visit Santa. BassPro.com art + family = FUN 1:00, Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Join us every Saturday and Sunday for free activities for all ages! 816.751.1278 Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer 2:00, the Coterie. The beloved TV classic soars off the screen and onto the stage this holiday season. TheCoterie.org
A Country School Christmas Sat., Dec. 6th 1:00-4:00 p.m.
FREE
Join us for a 1904 Christmas celebration!
all inclusive: price includes jack stack dinner for dads and chick-fil-a for the girls, and photo with queen elsa & olaf.
Register by Jan. 10th and take advantage of the early bird discount: $65 per couple ($15 for each additional child). Registration after Jan. 10th is $75 per couple.
event will sell out. tickets must be purchased in advance.
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* Visit with Santa Claus * Christmas Caroling * Christmas Tales
Drop in throughout December to see the school decorated for an old-fashioned Christmas! Write your letter to Santa with a quill pen and ink, and learn how Christmas was celebrated in 1904. Make an ornament. Lanesfield School 18745 S. Dillie Road Edgerton, KS 913.893.6645 www.jocomuseum.org
Ladysmith Black Mambazo 8 p.m. Saturday, February 21
Memphis: The Musical 3 and 8 p.m. Saturday, February 28
MOMIX – Alchemia 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, March 27 and 28
Michael Feinstein: The Sinatra Project with big band 8 p.m. Saturday, May 9
New events just announced! Tickets on sale Nov. 3. jccc.edu/TheSeries | 913-469-4445 Performing Arts Series | Johnson County Community College NO ONLINE FEES | FREE PARKING | WINE & BEER AVAILABLE
We Welcome your children to our Warm, fun environment, Where every child is treated With personalized care.
Dentistry for infants, children, teens and all those with special needs
• Comprehensive pediatric dental care including orthodontics • Low radiation digital x-rays • Individualized oral health education
Dr. John T. Fales, Jr.
13496 S. Arapaho Drive • Olathe, KS 66062 913.782.2207 • 913.489.0028 Fax
www.KIDZDENTIST.com
find us on facebook kcparent.com november 2014
65
L EXP
ORE
KANSAS CITY ZOO Watch Polar Bears
New
Orangutan Canopy Coming in Late Spring 2015
2015 FOTZ Memberships
AVAILABLE NOVEMBER 1!
Flip and Splash at
Polar Bear Passage, Penguins Waddle and dive at Helzberg Penguin Plaza
and much, much more!
he Save t or Date f
oo Z w o n S January 25! on
Always a New Adventure!
OPEN DAILY kansascityzoo.org 816.595.1234
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The Kansas City Zoo, a private, non-profit organization is operated in agreement with the Kansas City, MO Board of Parks and Recreation Commissioners, partially funded by the Zoological District in Jackson and Clay Counties in MO, and is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.
Are you about to spend most of your holiday on a highway? Surprisingly, an Allstate Agent can help you get ready. The good hands are doing more than ever before. SM
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40 Kansas City area Allstate Agents
allstate.com/MyOffers Offers open to all. Car Buying Service savings vary off MSRP. Car seat savings limited to certain models; savings vary. Safe Driving Bonus Check feature is optional. Insurance subject to terms, conditions and availability. © 2014 Allstate Insurance Co.
kcparent.com november 2014
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THE
NUTCRACKER
Kansas City Ballet School Dancer : Grace Anne Reed. Photography: Kenny Johnson.
DECEMBER 6-24, 2014
CHOREOGRAPHY
MUSIC
FEATURING
Todd Bolender
Peter I. Tchaikovsky
Kansas City Symphony
At the magnificent:
Sponsored in part by:
Connect with us
Follow our blog for behind-the-scenes information.
GET YOUR TICKETS TODAY AT KCBALLET.ORG OR CALL 816.931.2232. KANSAS CITY’S FAVORITE HOLIDAY ENTERTAINMENT TRADITION. Experience the breathtaking sights and sounds of the magic Christmas tree, dazzling costumes and scenery, stunning choreography and dozens of beautiful dancers. Commemorating the 100th birthday of Kansas City Ballet’s Todd Bolender.
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* Sugar Plum Fairy Children’s Ball
DATES OF PERFORMANCES Saturday Sunday Friday Saturday Sunday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday
Dec. 6* Dec. 7 Dec. 12 Dec. 13 Dec. 14 Dec. 18 Dec. 19 Dec. 20 Dec. 21 Dec. 22 Dec. 23 Dec. 24
2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. 1 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. 1 p.m. & 5 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. 1 p.m. & 5 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. 1 p.m.