KC Parent Magazine December 2016

FREE | December 2016 | KCParent.com | Since 1985

tips to tame

could my child have

autism?

the

GOOD

the

BAD

and the

UGLY

of loveys

the holiday circus

gifts NOT to give kids this year count down to christmas

KC STYLE!

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Angela Stott, C-PNP Kimberly McNerney, C-PNP Tiffany Vitt, C-PNP

When your little elf tries to climb the shelf, accidents can happen.

A trip to the emergency room may not be on your holiday wishlist, but every year many kids spend time in the ER due to holidayrelated accidents. The good news is, our kidfriendly ERs are ready for all emergencies, big or small. Plus, with 10 locations throughout the Kansas City area, care for Santa’s little helpers is never far away.

Visit hcamidwest.com/elf to view our current average ER wait times, and to learn about the most common child injuries during the holidays — and how to avoid them.

ER CARE FOR KIDS & ADULTS Belton Belton Regional Medical Center I-49 (Hwy 71) & Hwy 58

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ER of Brookside Independence Rockhill Rd. & Holmes Rd. Centerpoint Medical Center 39th St. & Little Blue Pkwy

Lee’s Summit Lee’s Summit Medical Center Northeast of Hwy 50 & Todd George Rd. Lexington Lafayette Regional Health Center 15th St. & State St.

Olathe ER of Olathe East of Black Bob Rd. on 135th St. Overland Park Menorah Medical Center 119th St. & Nall Ave.

Overland Park Regional OverlandCenter Park Regional Medical Medical CenterRd. I-435 & Quivira I-435 & Quivira NOW OPEN – Rd. Now with a dedicated Dedicated Pediatric ER Pediatric ER Shawnee ER of Shawnee West of I-35 on Shawnee Mission Pkwy 2866 A

* Message and data rates may apply. For more information visit texterhelp.com. ER wait times are approximate and provided for informational purposes only. If you are having a medical emergency, call 9-1-1.

WE GET HARD-TO-SHOP-FOR. Finding a gift for hard-to-shop-for family and friends – like your nitpicky nephew – can be a challenge. But with more than 100 name-brand stores, restaurants and entertainment options, you might actually get a thank-you out of him this year.

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DEPARTMENTS 18 Women’s Health 19 Healthy Kids 35 Craft Corner 36 Word from Dad

16-PAGE HOLIDAY GUIDE, PG. 34

37 Faith & Family 49 Media Mix

SPECIAL SECTIONS

FEATURES

14 Party Guide 34 Holiday Guide 50 Calendar of Events

22 Security Items The upside and downside of loveys

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29

Heading Out

Dining Out

Tips for getting kids out the door on time

Terrific restaurants with a great view

Our cover features Alina from Shawnee.

Cover model provided by HoffmanModels.com.

Cover and select interior photos by KiaBondurant.com.

FREE | December 2016 | KCParent.com | Since 1985

ON THE COVER Could My Child Have Autism?

12

The Good and Bad of Loveys

22

Count Down to Christmas

38

Gifts NOT to Give Kids This Year

40

Tips to Tame the Holiday Circus

6

kcparent.com december 2016

46

tips to tame

could my child have

autism?

the

GOOD

the

BAD

and the

UGLY

of loveys

the holiday circus

gifts NOT to give kids this year count down to christmas

KC STYLE!

kcparent.com december 2016

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EDITOR’SLETTER DECEMBER 2016

W

Publisher Michael Gimotty Michael@KCParent.com Associate Publisher Darrell Dean Darrell@KCParent.com Editor Margaret Sarver Margaret@KCParent.com Art Director Kim Tappan Tappan Design Kim@KCParent.com Advertising Sales Darrell Dean Advertising@KCParent.com Electronic Media Manager Kristina Light Kristina@KCParent.com Event Calendar Susan Lynn Calendar@KCParent.com Copy Editor Susan Crainshaw Susan@KCParent.com Distribution To be added to our distribution list, e-mail Distribution@KCParent.com Local Contributing Writers

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Kim Antisdel (Liberty), Bill Bartlett (Belton), Karah Chapman (Kansas City), Tisha Foley (Belton), Susan Gimotty (Overland Park), Jessica Heine (Olathe), Christa Hines (Olathe), Rebecca Ishum (Belton), Karen Johnson (Olathe), Megan Kapple (Kansas City), Kristina Light (Kansas City), Sarah Lyons (Olathe), Kerrie McLoughlin (Overland Park), Jena Meyerpeter (Lenexa), Katie Newell (Shawnee), Jessica Samuel (Kansas City), Jim Strahle (Kansas City), Melanie Yunger (Shawnee)

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tips to tame

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BAD

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Streetcar

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hen the first of December arrives, do you find yourself the ringmaster of the holiday circus in your home? Many times that’s how I feel, trying to juggle all of the events, tame the gifting and lasso the to-do list. KC Parent to the rescue! We have a complete holiday guide to help you get through (and actually even enjoy) this holiday season! For tips to tame the circus in your home, check out pg. 46. For a fun look at gifts NOT to give kids, see pg. 40. For a creative way to count down to Christmas, head to pg. 38. In addition, we’ve got ideas on how to not break the bank this season, along with helpful tips on co-parenting during the holidays.

For several years, I was guilty of turning back the clocks on New Year’s Eve and telling the girls it was later than it actually was. Anytime they would see a clock I didn’t get to, I just told a little white lie that the clock must be broken.

After a while I stopped tampering with time, and we allowed both to stay up until real midnight.

I figured they had caught on at some point, so when I casually mentioned recently what I had done, I was shocked to learn that they had never figured it out! Whoops—should have kept that one to myself! For tips on hosting a fun New Year’s evening in your home, check out pg. 41.

On a more personal note, the past year has been a rough one for me. We lost my dad suddenly last December, so this month will be a hard one as we commemorate the one-year anniversary of his passing. For more on what the year has looked like since Pops passed, see pg. 20.

I hope some of my experiences may help you or a loved one dealing with loss.

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Merriest of Christmases to you and your family!

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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KCPARENTONLINE

KCParent.com Even More Local Parenting Information, Articles, Events and Surprises

SEARCH KCPARENT.COM FOR OUR TOP 10 LISTS OF FUN IDEAS: 1. Ultimate KC Christmas Guide 2. Free & Cheap Indoor Fun

3. Santa Sightings 4. Summer Fun in the Winter in KC 5. Best of December

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HOLIDAY LIGHTS Stroll through holiday wonderlands enchanted by the magic of candlelit trails and beautiful music. Or, load the family in the car and drive around town to enjoy great light displays all over KC. For a complete list, search “Holiday Lights” at KCParent.com

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9

TIMELY PARENTING RESEARCH: The Low-Down on Shots, Soaps and Sports

J

ust when you think you’ve got this parenting thing figured out, new research comes along that refutes everything you’ve been doing since day one. If you’ve been debating the merits of flu mists, antibacterial soaps and whether or not your kids should specialize in a singular sport, here’s the scoop on the latest research to help you make the best choices for your family.

FLU SHOTS Hoping to save your kids the pain of a flu shot this fall, are you opting instead for the painless nasal spray vaccine? Think again.

According to a policy statement update in the October 2016 Pediatrics, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that all children ages 6 months and older receive a seasonal flu shot (rather than the nasal spray vaccine) during the upcoming 2016-17 season. Because new research showed poor effectiveness of the mist compared with the traditional shot in recent flu seasons, the AAP recommends the flu shot as the best available preventive measure against influenza.

“We want to provide children with the best protection possible against flu,” explains co-author of the statement Henry H. Bernstein, DO, MHCM, FAAP, “and these recent studies show the flu shot is likely to provide a higher level of protection.”

ANTIBACTERIAL SOAPS You can skip the expensive antibacterial soap the next time you’re stocking up on supermarket essentials and instead buy less expensive, plain ol’ soap. The U.S. Food

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and Drug Administration recently issued a statement that manufacturers no longer can market consumer antibacterial washes containing certain active ingredients, including the most commonly used ingredients, triclosan and triclocarban.

Why? Because the manufacturers failed to demonstrate the ingredients are both safe for long-term daily use and more effective than plain soap and water to avoid getting sick and to prevent spreading germs to others.

“Consumers may think antibacterial washes are more effective at preventing the spread of germs, but we have no scientific evidence that they are any better than plain soap and water,” says Janet Woodcock, MD, director of the FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER). “In fact, some data suggests antibacterial ingredients may do more harm than good over the long term.”

What to do if soap and water aren’t available? The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent alcohol.

SPECIALIZING IN SPORTS Even though you’ve been grooming your soccer star since she was 3 with the hopes of her someday snagging a college scholarship, you might be doing her more harm than good.

According to a new report from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), young athletes who specialize in just one sport face an increased risk of overuse injuries from their highly focused training.

Plus they’re more likely to experience stress and burnout from the singular focus and the pressure of performing.

In the report published in the September 2016 Pediatrics, lead author Joel S. Brenner, MD, FAAP, explains that “more kids are participating in adult-led organized sports today, and sometimes the goals of the parents and coaches may be different than the young athletes.”

The best advice? To minimize risk of overuse injury and boost the likelihood of being physically active into adulthood, the AAP encourages children to participate in multiple sports and delay specialization until at least 15 or 16.

Lisa Beach is a freelance journalist, copywriter and humor blogger. Check out her writer’s website at LisaBeachWrites.com and visit her humor blog at TweeniorMoments.com.

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Can animals be beneficial to kids with autism? Learn more about it at KCParent.com.

could my child have autism?

A

ccording to the American Academy of Pediatrics (HealthyChildren.org), autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurologically-based disability that affects a child’s social skills, communication and behavior and affects approximately 1 in 68 children, with boys five times more likely to receive the diagnosis than girls.

Stacey Martin, MA, is a Kansas City area board certified behavior analyst (BCBA)/ licensed behavior analyst (LBA) with Summit Behavioral Services. She notes that autism is a spectrum disorder and labeled so because of the unique manner in which it impacts children. “No two individuals identified as being on the autism spectrum will present the exact same profile of symptoms and challenges, as diagnoses are based on the characteristics presented by the individual,” she says. “In identification of an ASD, the broad symptoms are in social communication/interactions and restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests or activities.”

These symptoms will not be apparent at birth. Typically, symptoms may occur in the early stages of your child’s life, with regular development occurring within normal limits until the time communication

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becomes necessary for social engagement.

Another scenario is regular development that occurs in some areas at a much faster rate than expected, while other milestones are lacking or significantly underdeveloped.

“Signs of autism can vary at different stages of development, but all fall within the two areas of social communication/interactions and restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests or activities,” Martin says.

Parents should realize that typical milestone markers are just a general framework for tracking a child’s progression, and development of individual children varies. Martin recommends utilizing resources such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and their “Learn the Signs - Act Early” program (CDC. gov/ncbddd/actearly/concerned.htm)l for information about typical development expectations and guidance on when to seek further assessment from your physician.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends general developmental screenings at 9, 18 and 24 or 30 months, and screenings more specific to autism at 18 and 24 months or whenever you have concerns for any atypical developmental patterns your child has. If there is a diagnosis, parents

should seek intervention services to support their child and family as soon as possible.

Megan Carman, BCBA, of Kansas City Autism Training Center, agrees. “My advice for parents just receiving a diagnosis is to make learning about services their number one priority. It may sound harsh, but think of treating an autism diagnosis with the same urgency that you would treat another life-altering medical diagnosis,” she counsels.

“Find effective services as quickly as you can and be prepared to make sacrifices to set your child on his or her best learning trajectory.”

Martin advises the same: “Learn as much about autism as you can but make sure you are utilizing trusted sources. For any individual diagnosed with ASD, but especially young children, early, intensive intervention is critical.”

Carman recommends starting with the Association for Science in Autism Treatment (ASATOnline.org) or locally with the Kansas Center for Autism Research and Training at KU Med (KCART.ku.edu). Carman also says support services should include parent training, practitioners who want you involved in your child’s intervention and agencies dedicated to providing empirically-driven intervention, such as Applied Behavior

Analysis (ABA). “ABA is empirically shown to help children with autism to learn faster, with research backing that early ABA intervention has the greatest effect on a child’s future learning trajectory,” Carman says.

Treatment and support services for your child with ASD are vital, but remembering the impact of diagnosis on all members of the family, including siblings, is equally important. “There are a variety of resources available to assist parents with supporting siblings of those on the spectrum,” Martin says. “Sibling support groups and books are available to help siblings and peers understand ASD, as well as providing them with ways to support their sibling on the spectrum.”

While making sure your children without a diagnosis receive information and support, they may be a great resource for helping you understand typical age development—and can provide positive models of appropriate behavior to their sibling who has been diagnosed. “Sometimes siblings without an autism diagnosis can be the best thing for a family, as far as providing play opportunities, insight to what’s cool for kids right now,

No two individuals identified as being on the autism spectrum will present the exact same profile of symptoms and challenges, with diagnoses based on the characteristics presented by the individual.

and demonstrating benchmarks for development,” Carman says. “For example, if you aren’t teaching your 5-year-old with autism to help with household chores, then your 4-year-old asks to mix brownie batter, turn the key in the door or water the flowers, it should serve as a reminder that kids at that age are ready and able to learn by helping with chores. Hopefully, you or someone providing intervention can come up with a household chore that’s appropriate for the skill level of your child with autism.”

Siblings are not the only sources of appropriate developmental engagement for

children with ASD. Having opportunities to engage with same-age peers is important, too. Carman notes that teaching children with autism to engage in activities enjoyed by their peers could open up social engagement opportunities. “Pokémon Go was a great example of the outcome of teaching children with autism to engage in “cool” activities—a child who may not have the skills (yet) to chat with classmates, could still play Pokémon at recess. There are more social opportunities available among children who share interests,” she says.

If you have concerns for the development of your child, the best first steps are to contact your pediatrician.

Karah Chapman is a school psychologist in the Kansas City area, where she gets to work with children in all ranges of development and finds joy in watching them grow and explore at all levels.

As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns.

Resources Autism Speaks Autism Speaks’ mission “is dedicated to promoting solutions, across the spectrum and throughout the lifespan, for the needs of individuals with autism and their families through advocacy and support; increasing understanding and acceptance of autism spectrum disorder; and advancing research into causes and better interventions for autism spectrum disorder and related conditions.” Their site is full of information and guidance, especially for parents with newly diagnosed children. The 100-Day Kit is designed specifically for families with children ages 4 and under who have recently received a diagnosis of autism for their child.

AutismSpeaks.org

Autism Society–The Heartland This local chapter of the nationwide group focuses on helping the whole person and the family. They provide monthly support groups, monthly teen game nights, Saturday seminar workshops and more.

In addition, the organization also sponsors Sensory Friendly Films, screenings of current movies at select theaters. Films are shown with the lights up and the volume lowered. Families can bring their own snacks and audience members are welcome to get up and dance, sing or shout.

ASAHeartland.org

The Kansas Center for Autism Research and Training (K-CART) Resource Center 12600 Quivira Rd., 270 Regnier Hall, Overland Park, KS 66213, 913.897.8471 The Autism Resource Center is a lending library of specialized books, DVDs and other resources on autism spectrum disorders. It’s a place for families to receive guidance on navigating ASD community resources.

Children are welcome and have their own area with toys and books.

KCART.ku.edu

kcparent.com december 2016

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celebrating twin birthdays

DOUBLE TROUBLE?

party guide

By Jennifer Higgins

m

ost kids count down in anticipation to their birthdays, waiting for the special date when all the attention is turned to them: presents, a cake, even birthday spankings make the day special. But multiples have to share their special day with someone else, and knowing how to handle that can be tricky.

Although deciding on a joint or separate party can seem to be a quandary for the parents, many twins agree that for them, there is no question: Joint parties are the way to go.

“Tiffany and I have always celebrated our birthday together. We were 35 in July, and there have only been a handful of birthdays we haven’t celebrated together. I wouldn’t have wanted it any other way,” says Angie Lucas of Leawood, who is one minute younger than twin sister Tiffany Smith of Olathe.

Tyler Holloway, twin brother of Ethan, both of Kansas City, agrees. “We’ve shared a birthday our whole lives; we never knew or wanted anything different. After all, we had twice the new toys to play with than if there were just one of us,” Holloway says.

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Beth Giesler of Liberty, mother of 7-yearold twin boys, makes sure to ask the twins what they want, instead of assuming they want a separate or joint party. “Every year I ask if they want to celebrate together or separately and it’s always been together!” Giesler says.

Making the day special for each multiple is important, and there are many ways to accomplish this.

“I just want to be sure that they know how treasured they are by us and how special the day is for us,” says Amanda Jensen of Kearney, mother of 9-year-old twins, a boy and girl.

Jensen accomplishes this by holding joint birthday parties, but with separate themes, cakes and presents. “I have always had a strong opinion that each child needs to feel like they had ‘their’ day,” Jensen says.

Giesler agrees that making the day special for both is important. “I do two separate cakes and we sing “Happy Birthday” to each child. I think this helps individualize their birthday,” she says.

Jensen also makes two cakes. “One thing I do is make a cake for each kid. I (so far) have made all of their cakes from scratch. They get to choose what flavor of cake I make,” Jensen says. “Some turned out to be not so pretty, but

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Giesler also lets the boys have a hand in planning the party and invitations. “They each get to help in planning the party with decorations, games, activities, where it is located. They also get to invite their own friends, which usually are the same, but again it gives them a chance to make a decision on their own,” she says.

Handling presents can be another issue, especially if parents host a joint party. “When the kids got older and started to invite school friends to their parties, we would make sure that Abby’s friends knew that they didn’t need to bring a present for Isaac, and vice versa,” Jensen says.

Lucas gives a twin’s perspective: “Our favorite thing to play with growing up, for example, was Barbies, so they would get us each a Barbie (but a different one). It was perfect!

Tiff liked the more fashionable Barbies and I liked Barbie & the Rockers or the swimsuit Barbie. So as we got older, the gifts were a little more personalized to each of our own styles.”

With a little bit of creative thinking—even if celebrating together—multiples can feel like they have their own special day.

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OPEN DAILY kansascityzoo.org 816.595.1234 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. kcparent.com december 2016

17

WOMEN’SHEALTH

O

h, the weather outside is frightful, and you hope your skin stays delightful. Unfortunately, for many people, the cold weather causes some to sing a different song. Cold weather can bring on a plethora of winter skin woes that can truly drive us crazy. Issues like dry, itchy skin or scalp, chapped lips or dry hair can bring out the suffering diva in all of us!

Generally speaking, if you suffer from any of the above issues, getting advice from your local department store or drug store isn’t the best choice. Seek help from a medical professional such as a dermatologist, especially if the problem seems to be more complex. Nevertheless, below is a list of recommendations for dry skin, scalp, hair and chapped lips from the American Academy of Dermatology.

Dry Skin: • Moisturizer: Apply frequently every day.

Look for products containing petrolatum or lanolin, which help seal moisture in.

Dermatologists may prescribe something stronger containing medications to help with severe dry skin like eczema.

Itchy Scalp/Dry hair:

winter skin woes • Make sure all soap is rinsed from hands after washing.

• Wear dish gloves to keep water away from hands.

• Moisturize right after shower and limit time in shower.

• Use a humidifier.

Chapped Lips: • Apply lip balm at bedtime that contains the ingredients petrolatum or lanolin.

• Use a humidifier.

Foster parents needed!

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How will I handle saying goodbye to the child if and when it’s safe for them to go home?

This is no doubt difficult, but any sadness is outweighed by the safety and love you will give to a child during a time of crisis. Plus, you’re encouraged to maintain life-long connections with the child and family. Thousands of children in the Kansas City area are in need of caring foster families. If not you, then who?

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kcparent.com december 2016

• If you have dandruff and itchy scalp, use a shampoo designed specifically to treat these conditions.

• Rinse shampoo thoroughly from hair.

• If you have dry hair, you may not need to wash your hair every day.

• Always condition your hair, but apply only to the ends.

• Apply conditioner to the ends of your hair, before washing hair and after washing hair.

• Use a shampoo and conditioner based on meeting your hair needs, not necessarily the most expensive brand.

• Use a humidifier in the winter.

If you try any of the above methods for relieving your winter skin woes without success, please visit with your doctor for further questions. Wrap yourself up this winter and stay warm!

Melanie Yunger is a local nurse practitioner and mother who works daily on preventing her children’s hands and lips from getting chapped.

HEALTHYKIDS

keeping kids active indoors

A

ccording to the National Association for Sport and Physical Education, preschoolers should have several hours of free play, plus 60 minutes of structured physical activity, every day. This amount of activity may come easily during the summer months, but now that winter is here, keeping children active may seem next to impossible. Instead of hibernating during those cold months, you might try some of these activities to keep active and enjoy some quality time as a family.

Obstacle course: No matter the size of

house or age of children, this activity can be changed daily and adjusted so that even the adult of the house can have a good time. Run up the flight of stairs, climb under the kitchen table, crab walk through the living room, walk on a balance beam (aka scarves lined up on the floor) and jump over a book or game.

YouTube: YouTube is good for lots of things,

including workout videos. Search kids yoga or kids workouts and find a wide variety of videos

for different ages and skill levels from which to choose.

Dance: Turn on the music and let loose. If your children are older, try choreographing your own moves to a song of choice.

EAS INTRODUCTOR

COURS

Sports: While balls in the house usually may

3 Lessons

be a no-no, when the weather is cold and kids are stuck indoors, some rules may go out the window. Find a designated area to kick the soccer ball or throw a Nerf ball back and forth.

29

$

Commercial breaks: If the kids are

home and finding themselves in front of the television more than normal, use the commercial breaks as exercise breaks. If the commercial is food related, do jumping jacks.

If it’s advertising another show, try push-ups. A medication? Run in place or jump rope.

TAKE STEP 1

No matter what activity your family prefers, having fun is most important. Enjoy the time together and be creative!

Jessica Heine is a labor and delivery nurse. She lives in Olathe with her family.

Turn on the music and let loose.

If your children are older, try choreographing your own moves to a song of choice.

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19

Living and Learning THROUGH LOSS

Dec. 11, 2015, began like any other Friday in the Sarver home.

We had attended a performance of the KC Rep’s production of A Christmas Carol the night before and didn’t arrive home until late. My older asked if I would take her into school an hour late so she could catch up on homework. I agreed and took my younger to Dunkin’ Donuts for breakfast (a Friday morning tradition and treat) and dropped her off at school. I arrived home to prep for a conference call, only to find my computer was having issues.

As I worked to solve the issue, the house cleaners arrived. The weekend held a cookie exchange party on Saturday at our house and a Bunko group dinner the following Tuesday, so I wanted the house cleaned up before the parties started. The conference call began (my tech friend Nancy to the rescue, once again), Tori worked on homework, the cleaners did their thing (while the new puppy barked and barked and I tried to shush and shush), and a couple of hours flew by. I ran Tori to school and settled back in front of the computer to work. I had dressed for a noon Jazzercise class, but the call had taken longer than expected, so I skipped class and continued working.

My memory of the specifics of the afternoon aren’t as clear. I worked a bit late for a Friday, but I was bound and determined to take off one full week during the holidays and wanted to get as caught up as I could with work. Friday nights are pizza and movie night. When my husband called to suggest we go out for pizza this particular Friday, I was all for it—meant the kitchen wouldn’t get messy before Saturday’s party.

We met for pizza, played a holiday word game during dinner and then went back home to watch The Empire Strikes Back. We wanted the girls to see the first three Star Wars movies before the release of The Force Awakens.

Mom and Dad celebrating their 25th anniversary.

Dad as a toddler. He was the youngest of four.

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kcparent.com december 2016

Dad in high school (and, one of the few photos of him with hair).

Relaxing on the couch.

Photo taken by my older, Tori.

About an hour into the movie as I was dozing, the house phone rang. The girls informed me it was Uncle Joe. I told them to answer the phone, and he asked to speak to me. He asked me where I was, which I found odd, because he had called me on my house phone, so I answered, “At my house.” He asked where in the house, to which I replied, “My room.” He told me to go downstairs.

Honest to goodness, as odd as it seems, my first thought was “My house is on fire and my brother in St. Louis knows? And he only wants to save me?” That’s what being half asleep when taking a phone call does to you. I went downstairs and he said, “I’m at the emergency room with Mom. Dad passed out during a dinner party.” During the remainder of the conversation what stood out were “right-sided heart attack” and “could be life-threatening.”

Phone calls were placed to other family members as Ty and I tried to decide how to move forward. Should just he and I head to St. Louis? Dad was being prepped for surgery and we were told it could take 10-12 hours. Did the girls really want to spend the weekend in a hospital waiting room? BUT, Joe used the term “life-threatening.”

What if this was their last opportunity to see Grandpa? Highly unlikely, I told myself, as Dad was in perfect health. People have heart attacks every day. What about the new dog? Do we bring him?

It was now 10:00 on a Friday evening. Our final decisions were bring the girls, leave the dog, pack for a weekend stay and take it from there. I already had decided I was going to give Dad a heck of a lot of trouble for doing this to me so close to the holidays. I mean really, couldn’t he have timed it better?

My sister-in-law Anna was my point of contact and kept me updated on hospital happenings. Doctors were in and out talking with Mom and now my siblings who had gathered in the waiting room. And then, after an hour and a half of traveling and texting, my phone rang. I saw it was Anna and I knew, because she had been sending updates through texts, this couldn’t be good news.

“Margaret,” she started, “I am so sorry to have to be the one to tell you this, but your dad didn’t make it and he died.” She then asked if I wanted her to talk to Ty. I nodded and handed him the phone. He hung up. And there, at 11:50 on Dec. 11, 2015, at mile marker 70 on I-70, my world split into the “before” and “after.”

Once a year, Mom and Dad took the girls out for a nice dinner to teach them the art of fine dining.

This past year has been learning to live with my new normal. As my mom told us, our world continues to spin, it’s just that our axis has tilted and our world now spins differently. And it’s been hard and I hate it and I want to go back to before and I miss him terribly. While I am by NO MEANS an expert, here are a few things I’ve learned throughout the past year.

Accept help. Dad still worked every day and had a very active social life. The outpouring after his death was incredible. While we fumbled around with funeral plans, a very dear friend offered to take care of the luncheon after the funeral. We said okay and he took it upon himself to plan a lovely luncheon for more than 300 guests in just three days’ time.

When people ask how they can help, give them a job to lighten your load.

Give yourself a break. I stepped back from volunteering and decided I need time to reset this past year. In addition, I had times when I had to call “uncle” and turn to others to help me through. I told Mom I would write some thank you notes for her. I had a bag full of cards from so many friends and acquaintances that sat on my kitchen counter for a good two months. Every day I walked by and thought, “I have got to send those notes.” I mentioned it to my sisterin-law one day. She swooped in, took the bag and wrote the notes I just couldn’t physically bring myself to write.

Go to the visitation or the funeral. Have you ever heard of someone passing and thought, “I don’t know the family all that well, not sure I should attend.” I have. After being on the receiving end, I’m here to tell you, go. My babysitter from when I was 5 came through the line and shared that she remembered Dad watching her as she walked across the street to her home after babysitting. A patient of more than 20 years shared how much she admired Dad. It meant the world to all of us to hear how much he had impacted others.

Everyone is dealing with something. You know how after you have a baby you hear everyone’s delivery story? After you suffer a loss, you hear everyone’s story of their own loss. First, listen to their story. Second, be empathetic to everyone, because even though you don’t know every person’s individual tale of loss or heartache, everyone is dealing with something.

Margaret Sarver lives in Lenexa with her family. She’s decided after giving her dad a big hug in heaven, she’s giving him a swift kick for leaving too soon.

For his 70th birthday, Dad wanted updated family photos taken.

This is Mom and Dad with all us kids. At the time, we didn’t realize what a precious gift this would become just 10 months later. kcparent.com december 2016

21

The Good,

the Bad &

the Ugly

of Loveys

w

hen my quadruplets were only a few months old, a nurse friend suggested we get each child a special lovey. I’m so glad I listened to her advice! The doggie, blankie, traditional lovey and two stuffed bunnies that my kids have adopted have ended up being an amazingly special part of their lives. But loveys aren’t without their cons too. Take a look at some reasons why you might want to incorporate them, and how to avoid potential minefields in the process!

Perhaps the best reason to get loveys for your kids is because they provide a sense of security. Kendra Moberly, Kansas City, points out that from a child’s perspective, the world is constantly changing and seems out of control. She says, “The world is big and fast-paced for little ones, and loveys are the one thing that is a constant and a good comfort when things start feeling a little overwhelming.” When all else fails, they still have their trusty friends to hold onto. Sometimes putting a little bit of control in their court is all that is needed to make their day a little easier.

Loveys are also marvelous at helping kids learn how to self-soothe. Meredith Harold, Kansas City, loves the self-soothing that loveys promote. “Those monkeys calm her down when she’s upset and keep her in bed when she doesn’t want to sleep,” she says. They provide a means for kids to learn how to function independently. That’s good news for moms who need a little break, and even better news for littles ones who just need a tool to help them self-regulate.

But loveys aren’t without their downsides. Sometimes kids become overlyattached to their loveys and find themselves unable to sleep or function without them. Placing boundaries on where loveys are allowed to go helps kids understand they can function without them when needed. When my kids were little, we let them take their loveys with them when we went out but never allowed them to come to the table for meals. Now that my kids are 5, their loveys have to stay in their bedrooms or the living room and no longer leave the house. Learning coping techniques outside of having loveys is a healthy skill for kids to develop as they grow older.

The other potential issue with bringing loveys into a child’s life is when they turn up missing. Elizabeth Williams, triplet mom from Lee’s Summit, recounts the lengths to which she went to find a duplicate for a 25-cent lovey she found at a garage sale. It took her hours of research to finally find a duplicate of the special horse—and $25 to purchase it. Every parent of a child with a lovey knows that a price tag can’t be placed on having a duplicate if the original suddenly takes a vacation. Loveys easily become their little owners’ best friends. Having the duplicate packed away in the closet could come in very handy one day!

A child equipped with a lovey can create amazing adventures and beautiful “together” memories. At the age of 32, I still remember and have held on to my two loveys from when I was a kid. In fact, one of my sons now sleeps with one of them: my green teddy bear from my childhood.

Rebecca Ishum lives in Belton with her husband, Sean, and their 5-year-old quadruplets. She still finds herself hunting down loveys at bedtime when her kids manage to sneak them into random places in the house.

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kcparent.com december 2016

real life lovey tales We asked KC Parent’s 44,000+ Facebook fans about their kids’ loveys.

Here are some of the cute stories they shared.

sleeps all monkey he My son has a sm and potty 2 s wa he When with every night. oom thr a flush in the ba training, I heard potty.” the wn key went do and then, “Mon ilet, to ole wh the t ok apar My husband to was y bo s gone. Our little but Monkey wa ht ug ro y b lad en the mail very happy wh later we s ek we w fe A ent. him a replacem rty Jobs in an episode of Di were watching r. My son we se a was in which Mike Rowe key?” king for my mon asked, “Is he loo t! tha od laugh at We all had a go Miranda

This is a funny story that happened 17 years ago. I bought my son, who was 2, a dog from Old Navy named “Magic.” My son loved that dog, but couldn’t say Magic. He called the dog Maggot! Maggot went everywhere with us and we really got the looks in the restaurants!

Maggot still sits on a shelf and will always be our family’s funny story!

Cindy

aby, my n was a b so y he m n e Wh ays think would alw ld u o w husband and . My husb was cold nd cover a e b ro is is take off h ecame h e robe b has it d him, so th n a , e is 5 now H . e ie k lit n bla Just a tl ally well. to ts n a w held up re n he ssing whe rant. u a st embarra re r o to a store take it in Jamie

My 10-year-old son has a blanket—of all the hundreds of blankets he wa s exposed to as a child—that he sti ll refuses to sleep without. This bla nket is identica l to the one I wa s attached to as a small child. I have only scraps left of mine, an d my son looks as if he’s well on his way down that path as well.

Maggie

My younger has a blanke t named Fifi. When sh e was a todd ler, she was in her crib po inting at som ething (I couldn’t tell what) and ye lling, “Fifi!

Fifi!” I picked up every ob ject in her room and as ked, “Is this Fifi?” And each time sh e shook her head no. It wasn’t until I picked up th e blanket and she excl aimed, “Fifi!” that I knew I had fo und it. And th at’s how Fifi got his (h er?) name.

Sarah

lphie lphie the dog. Ra My older had Ra r. hte ug da y m re with went everywhe n’t uld co we e im dt One night at be ine, as you can imag find Ralphie and, d ye sta He a. r traum there was majo nd of days until I fou lost for a couple t. en m se ba bar in the him behind the r hte ug da my It was then that re e and Ralphie we remembered sh d ha he d an d seek playing hide an hind the bar. be ing hid en be Margaret

kcparent.com december 2016

23

How to Know

too sick for daycare?

I

t’s 7 a.m. on a Monday and you’re scrambling to get ready for work. Suddenly you hear a whine, and your runny-nosed, red-cheeked toddler stands in the hallway looking at you through droopy eyes.

You consider the busy workday ahead of you and the professional consequences of staying home with your sick child. On the other hand, she obviously needs some TLC. And is it a minor case of the sniffles or the full-blown flu? Your mind races frantically.

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kcparent.com december 2016

The first thing to do is determine whether she is too sick for daycare. Most facilities have a set of written rules for when to keep children home. Individual guidelines vary, but the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends keeping kids home if they have any of the following: • Fever • Diarrhea or stools containing blood or mucus • Vomiting • Impetigo (skin infection) • Head lice • Scabies • Mouth sores with drooling You know your child best, though, and sometimes you have to go with your gut.

“As a parent, I know if my boy isn’t himself,” says Butler dad Brian Phillips. “He and I are very routine-driven people, and if he’s out of sorts, I can tell by his behavior, his appearance and his appetite.”

Tonganoxie mom Bridgette Halterman has a rule when it comes to her girls’ staying

home: “Usually if they are too sick to get up and play, I feel they are too sick for daycare.”

The Work Thing

Once you have made the decision to keep your child out of daycare, what do you do about work? In a perfect world, you would call your boss, explain the situation, and her response would be to stay home as long as you need to nurse your little one back to good health.

But, of course, it’s not a perfect world.

There are meetings, deadlines and coworkers counting on you to do your job, and calling in at 8:00 a.m. is not always an option.

The important thing is to have a plan in place BEFORE your baby gets sick. Here are some options to consider:

• Shift work Share nurse duties with your partner if possible. “My husband and I will try to split a day if we have important meetings scheduled,” says Olathe mom Kindra Sheridan. “If we can’t split a day, we will take turns calling in and staying home so neither of us misses too much time/days in a row.”

• Work from home It’s the digital age, and many jobs can be done from home. Perhaps you can teleconference into meetings from home or work on projects from your laptop.

The key is to make sure you can get your work done AND care for your sick child.

The important thing is to have a plan in place BEFORE your child gets sick.

• Family favors Is Grandma nearby? Does your sister owe you a favor? How about Aunt Edna? Oftentimes family members are happy to pitch in when you can’t miss work.

You might want to bring them dinner or treat them to an evening out as a thank you, but at least you can ease your mind knowing your baby is in good hands.

• Avant-garde employers Raymore mom Melissa Craker says her husband has flexibility in his job. “They have a policy that if the employee’s kids are sick, they are allowed to

stay home and take care of them. They don’t even charge a sick day.” Ask your employer if they would consider adopting such a plan, and find out a prospective employer’s sick child policy on your next job search.

• Network Talk with other parents, neighbors, retirees or anyone who might be able to pitch in or recommend alternate caregivers when your baby is sick. Other parents are in the same boat as you and may be willing to trade off childcare on sick days.

Craker sums up the dilemma every working parent faces: “As a parent with a sick child and as an employee, there will always be a little bit of guilt that something is not getting your full attention.”

Hopefully, your tot’s sick days are few and far between, and you have a plan in place before pesky germs invade your house.

Tisha Foley is currently a stay-at-home mom but remembers the work/sick child dilemma all too well. She and her family live in Belton.

As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns.

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25

and has completed all items on the checklist by 7:30, maybe he is allowed to watch TV or play on the iPad for 20 minutes. Long-term rewards are also beneficial, such as providing a point for each morning your child is on time and doesn’t need prompting from you. Once she’s accumulated 10 points, she can trade them in for a treat she’s been wanting.

Find more easy breakfast ideas at KCParent.com

getting out the door with kids (without losing your mind)

We’ve all been there.

Get your shoes on! Come on! We are late! Did you eat breakfast? Did you brush your teeth? You CANNOT wear that! Where is your library book? Let’s go!

Does this sound like your morning trying to get the kids out the door?

Whether it is to school, a sports practice or church, getting the kids ready and to an event on time can be an Olympic event. Here are a few “training” tips to streamline the process and get a win.

1. Plan and prepare ahead of time.

The night before, pack snacks and lunches.

Have the kids choose tomorrow’s outfit and ensure that backpacks are organized and all materials are in place. Have them check the back door: Are their shoes there, ready for the morning? Jackets on the hook? Try to minimize morning stress with organization and preparedness.

2. Have an organized place for things.

Many homes have cubbies in the mudroom for backpacks, homework, coats and shoes.

Those without such space may assign a certain closet or a wall in their kitchen or hallway for such items. In my house, we have a school wall in our kitchen. Each child has a hanging basket for papers and his or her own marker board where we write the week’s schedule and any notes/reminders of events. Each of my three kids has his or her own space, which promotes the child’s responsibility to keep it tidy and organized.

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kcparent.com december 2016

3. Discuss the plan and expectations with your kids. If the entire family is in the know, everyone can help pull together to beat the clock. Springing information on kids often leads to anxiety or an overly emotional response. Let your kids know what will be happening the following day, how much time they will have to get ready and what they will need to do. For example, on Sunday nights, remind them that it’s back to the grind tomorrow morning. They are expected to be downstairs, dressed, with teeth brushed and eating breakfast by 7:15.

4. Use timers, checklists and rewards.

Younger children who cannot yet read may do well with a visual checklist—a picture of a toothbrush, hairbrush, outfit and breakfast, for example—to help them remember all they have to do. Older children can write out their own checklists and hang them on their bedroom door. Set a timer and provide rewards for being on time. If your child is fully ready for school

5. Give yourself extra time. (And then even more time after that.) There is a reason why parents are chronically late. Always allow more time than you think you will need. Have your kids get their shoes and coats on 10 minutes before you have to leave the house.

This allows for “I forgot to put on socks!” and “I have to go potty” and “I can tie my own shoes.” If everything goes perfectly well, kids can play or read books or take a few extra bites of breakfast for a few minutes while you enjoy a few sips of your coffee. Or, maybe, just maybe, you might arrive early for once!

Olathe mom Karen Johnson has three children, ages 6, 4 and 2. She writes at The21stCenturySAHM.com.

QUIZ

1

Which of the following is NOT an appropriate expectation for kids as they get ready in the morning?

A. Get dressed B. Brush teeth C. Complete homework D. Eat breakfast

2

Which of the following could be used effectively to promote timeliness in the morning?

A. TV or iPad time once child is ready B. Rewarding points or taking points away based on efficiency C. A special treat as a reward D. All of the above

3

Where should backpacks, homework, etc., be stored before bedtime to promote a less stressful morning?

A. A centralized, organized location such as mudroom, cubbie or homework center B. Child’s bedroom C. Playroom D. Wherever the child left it—it’s her responsibility

Dining SCIENCE OF SIBLINGS 2-PAGE SPREAD

with a view

PHOTO SUPPLIED FOR THIS SPREAD IN FOLDER. IT IS THE ALTERNATIVE TO COVER.

W

hether you’re a discriminating foodie or simply seeking a fresh twist on date night or a family outing, feast your eyes on Kansas City’s cosmopolitan array of dining options that also come with seasonal views.

Need a pizza fix? Don’t settle for just any pie. Visit Il Lazzarone, 412 Delaware, in Kansas City’s River Market along the street car route. Dine on wood-fired traditional Neapolitan-style pizza while relaxing with a glass of wine on the brick patio outside, or hypnotically watch the cooks toss pizzas inside. For more information, call 816.541.3695 or visit IlLazzarone.org.

Offering dramatic views of downtown Kansas City, Piropos at Briarcliff, 4141 N. Mulberry Dr., Kansas City, MO, invites you to taste Argentinian fare. Sink your teeth into delicious grilled meats, seafood or salads in a cozy atmosphere surrounded by stunning artwork and views. If the weather is

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kcparent.com december 2016

The American Restaurant

agreeable, dine on the patio. Piropos features a piano bar Thursdays through Saturdays beginning at 6:30. For more information, call 816.741.3600 or visit PiroposKC.com.

The Jacobson in the Crossroads Arts District, 2050 Central St., Kansas City, MO, features small plates to share called “mingles,” mouthwatering burgers, fish and pasta and gorgeous cocktails. Billed as its “crown jewel,” the cobblestone patio with its ivy-covered pallet walls is your best bet for a view of Kansas City’s beautiful skyline. For reservations call 816.423.2888 or visit TheJacobsonKC.com.

Beginning Thanksgiving evening, pull up a front row seat to thousands of strings of festive KCP&L holiday lights on the Country Club Plaza, one of Kansas City’s most celebrated traditions. Step into McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood and Steaks, 48 W. 47th St., Kansas City, MO, for dinner and excellent views of the Plaza. For more information or to make reservations, visit McCormickAndSchmicks.com.

Webster House

The American, located at the top of Hallmark’s Crown Center, 200 E. 5th St., Kansas City, MO, is an elegant fine-dining KC classic featuring contemporary cuisine, an extensive wine list and sweeping views of Kansas City’s downtown skyline. On Friday and Saturday nights beginning at 6:30, tap your toes to live music.

Schedule reservations by calling 816.545.8001 or online at TheAmericanKC.com.

Unwind from the hustle and bustle of Union Station’s holiday family fun without completely leaving the festivities behind.

Plan lunch, breakfast or brunch at Harvey’s, 20 W. Pershing Rd., Kansas City, MO. The open-air restaurant sits at the heart of the Grand Hall of Union Station. Delight in exquisite views of the giant twinkling Christmas tree and spectacular vintage holiday decor while dining on sandwiches, soups or salads. For more information, call 816.460.2274 or visit HarveysKC.com.

For a healthy alternative that’s sure to brighten up your body and your mood, visit the quaint and cheerful Ruby Jean’s Juicery in Westport, 4001 Broadway Blvd. Treat yourself to a freshsqueezed juice or smoothie or nutrient-rich healthy bite. You can’t SCIENCE OF help but feel energized by the cafe’s vibrant orange and green SIBLINGS colors and local artwork adorning the walls. Play a game of jumbo Jenga or cozy up with an iPad provided to patrons, along with 2-PAGE free wifi.SPREAD If the weather’s nice, head out to the enclosed Zen back CONTINUED patio. For more information, call 816.399.2596 or visit RubyJeansJuicery.com.

Brake for specialty gourmet burgers and more at one of BRGR Kitchen + Bar’s three locations, including Kansas City’s Power & Light District, Prairie Village and Leawood. Part of locally-owned Bread and Butter Concepts, the casual bistro’s downtown location in particular features large windows, providing ample opportunities for people-watching. For more information, call 816.221.2747 or visit BRGRKitchen.com.

Surrounded by antiques, artwork and botanicals, duck into Vivilore, 10815 E. Winner Rd. in Independence, MO. Serving cuisine ranging from soup, salads and sandwiches to lobster rolls and steaks, the menu will please varying palates. If weather permits, dine outside in the charming courtyard bursting with seasonal color and a fairy garden. The restaurant also hosts periodic art galleries featuring local artists and other events. For more information, call 816.836.2222 or visit Vivilore.com.

On top of its sophisticated cuisine, signature martinis and jazzy vibe, Cafe Trio, 4558 Main St., Kansas City, MO, features a popular outdoor deck with views of the Country Club Plaza and the J.C. Nichols fountain. Inside, the restaurant plays gallery to a revolving display of local and regional artwork. And five nights a week, the restaurant features live music. For more information or to schedule a reservation, call 816.756.3227 or visit CafeTrioKC.com.

Got a hungry gaggle that wants to eat RIGHT NOW? The wait for food flies by at Fritz’s Railroad Restaurant. Youngsters love watching the tiny tooting trains that busily spin around delivering burgers and fries directly to tables. Fritz’s serves guests at three locations, in Shawnee, Kansas City, KS, and at Crown Center in Kansas City, MO. For more information, visit FritzsKC.com.

Freelance journalist Christa Melnyk Hines and her family reside in Olathe and love to sample restaurants across the Kansas City metro.

For ideas on how to sample cuisines from around the world without leaving KC, head to KCParent.com.

Piropos at Briarcliff

kcparent.com december 2016

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! h a t U i k S

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estled in Utah’s Wasatch Mountain Range, Park City is one of the best little ski towns in America, offering sweeping landscape views of the valley below. As big fans of Colorado skiing, our family was a little uncertain about venturing outside our customary Centennial State resorts. I’m here to say that now I’m a huge fan of Park City.

One issue I’ve always had with our Colorado ski trips is the drive to the actual ski resort. I know this sounds petty, but when you have a big family that’s traveled all day just to get to Denver, facing another 2- or 3-hour—sometimes treacherous—drive up the mountain can be exhausting. A more streamlined possibility never occurred to me. Were we ever pleasantly surprised when we landed in Salt Lake City and learned we had only a 30-minute drive to Park City—and what a stunning drive!

Pumping in $50 million, Vail Resorts has linked two of America’s greatest ski areas—Park City and Canyons—creating the largest ski resort in the United States. Don’t let the sheer scale scare you (you’re not going to lose all your family members the first day to a black diamond in Never-Never Land). Although it’s massive, it doesn’t feel that way—unless maybe you’re an expert skier and wish to explore all 7,300 acres of their terrain. Most of our family just stayed on the Park City side and, within one day, felt the quaintness of the area’s skiing. Our 17-year-old son did enjoy venturing out to ski on the other side of the mountain at the Canyons, connected to Park City by the new Quicksilver Gondola.

Personally, I think his attraction to skiing over at the Canyons

was eating lunch at Cloud Dine on top of the mountain (yes, you need to be a pretty good skier to get there), where the views are breathtaking and the food is delicious.

Besides the short drive to the resort and the amazing views from every angle, the other thing I loved about Park City was the weather! My biggest complaint about skiing is being cold, and then my kids get cold, so we end of spending too much time in the lodge trying to warm up instead of enjoying the great outdoors.

Although I am no meteorologist, the weather just seems warmer in Park City. We were pleasantly surprised by not struggling to stay warm, but rather getting a little too warm wearing our many layers. Plus, Park City gets more than 400 inches of snow annually, making for dry and fluffy powder and excellent ski conditions.

Once a mining town, Park City is known now for its food, culture and history. The historic Main Street is incredibly charming with brick and wooden storefronts converted into shops and restaurants. For the family, Park City offers a ton of other things to do, including riding the Alpine Coaster, tubing at Gorgoza Park and visiting the Utah Olympic Park, home of the 2002 Winter Olympics.

With amazing powder, close proximity and stunning views, Park City has much to love. It’s a little town that really has it all, and our recent trip there certainly did not disappoint.

Susan Gimotty lives in Overland Park with her husband and four kids.

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How to help: Sleep-deprived children may not appear sleepy, says Shelby F. Harris, PsyD, director of the Behavioral Sleep Medicine Program at Montefiore Medical Center in New York.

In fact, they may act hyper and goofy. But preschoolers and school-age children don’t outgrow the need for a consistent bedtime and bedtime routine. Establish an ageappropriate bedtime that allows your child to rest for 10 to 11 hours each night.

TWEEN YEARS 9-13 During the late elementary and middle school years, academics become more challenging and sports more competitive.

But when increasingly busy schedules start cutting into sleep, kids retain less of what they learn, says Mark Splaingard, MD, director of the Sleep Disorders Center at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. “Long hours spent on sports practice or math problems are counterproductive, if these activities keep kids up late at night,” he says. Kids will learn more and perform better—whether on the field or in the classroom—with sufficient shut-eye.

sleep, science and smarter kids:

How to help:

W

Parents need to understand sleep’s importance and guard kids’ sleep hours zealously, according to Splaingard. That means maintaining firm school-year bedtimes and choosing after-school and evening activities that end at least an hour before kids need to wind down for bed.

how sleep boosts learning ant kids to bring home As? Start with more ZZZs. According to sleep experts and numerous new studies, lost sleep hurts learning and hinders school-day success. That’s bad news, because today’s kids get about an hour less sleep each night than they did 30 years ago, says New York Times bestselling author Po Bronson in his book NurtureShock: New Thinking About Children. This lost sleep comes with a steep price tag—impaired learning and academic success.

How does sleep boost learning?

Researchers believe it has to do with the way the brain processes information during sleep. In fact, Michigan State University researchers found that children can learn even while they’re asleep as the brain integrates new information and memories.

Researchers from University of Florida discovered that newborns learn in their sleep, and new research from the American Academy of Sleep Medicine shows that sleep helps students perform better on tests.

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Read on for age-specific information on how sleep impacts learning—and how to help kids get a better night’s rest.

EARLY SCHOOL YEARS 3-8 For sleep-deprived kids, school trouble starts early: 10 percent of kids in early education suffer from sleep disturbances that disrupt learning, according to a German study.

The American Professional Sleep Society reports that sleep deprivation significantly worsens inattentiveness and hyperactivity in young children, leading to ADHD-like symptoms (known as “faux” ADHD).

Even modest sleep deprivation is enough to hinder learning. According to a study published in the journal Sleep, a mere hour of lost slumber is enough to bring on inattentiveness and hyperactivity in young children. A 2011 study of 6- and 7-yearolds shows that language skills, grammar, spelling and reading comprehension suffer when kids get less than nine hours of sleep per night.

TEENAGE YEARS 14-18 Teenagers are Splaingard’s most sleepdeprived patients, a fact that doesn’t surprise him. During high school, after-school jobs, extracurricular activities, sports, socializing and homework simply don’t leave enough time for sleep. Most teens need more sleep than parents think—over nine hours a night—and chronic sleep deprivation hurts learning at a time when kids need lots of mental energy for tough subjects from chemistry to calculus.

But teens’ busy schedules deserve only part of the blame for teens’ sleep deficits.

Cell phones and laptops keep teens up late, often into the wee hours. When teens finally power off their computers and go to bed, round-the-clock access to cell phones disrupts sleep. A new study reports that sleeping near

cell phones puts teens at risk for so-called “sleep texting,” waking up and firing off text messages during the night without any recollection of having sent the texts the next morning. All this sleep disruption adds up to bleary mornings and bleak report cards.

How to help: Protect teens’ precious sleep hours with a media curfew—shut down all electronics an hour before bed and establish a “charging station” outside the bedroom where teens leave their electronics overnight. This important step keeps bedrooms free of sleepSTUDY SKILLS M AT H S AT / AC T P R E P WRITING disrupting cell phones and computers, says Harris. “The bedroom should be a place for sleep,” she says. “It’s not a spot for homework, watching TV or surfing the Internet.”

When it comes to learning, tutors, cutting-edge gadgets and hours of homework can’t compensate for hours of lost sleep.A GWhen E 1 3 parents prioritize kids’ Now Ilearning sit in the front of themore class. naturally, sleep needs, comes Thanks Sylvan! says Splaingard.

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Holiday Guide

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craft corner

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word from dad

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faith and family

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25 days of Christmas

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what not to give

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new year

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healthy eating

44

tame the holiday

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yours, mine and ours

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debt-free holiday

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media mix

Special thanks to HoffmanModels.com for providing cover and interior talent.

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kcparent.com december 2016

CRAFTCORNER

Making paper sculptures is a fantastic excuse to use up leftover wrapping paper.

Step One: Use leftover wrapping paper to form and cut cones, cylinders, strips, twists and other interesting shapes. You also can use a hole punch to create more interest.

Step Two: Cut squares out of cardboard or poster board.

paper sculptures

Step Three: Glue the paper sculptures onto the pieces of cardboard and let them fully dry.

Making paper sculptures is a fantastic excuse to use up leftover wrapping paper. This art project is a great way to learn different ways to create three-dimensional shapes and textures out of paper. Spray paint the sculptures a uniform color for a modern and interesting piece of art!

Materials Needed:

• Leftover wrapping paper • Cardboard

• Scissors

• Glue

• Spray paint

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.

Step Three: Spray paint the sculptures a uniform color and hang once they are dry! kcparent.com december 2016

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WORDFROMDAD

a letter from santa

“I

can’t believe you guys!” I stood between Ian and James and looked from face to face. “Christmas is only two weeks away, and you’re acting like goblins.” I raised my voice. “Are you nuts?”

They shot a venomous glance at each other, then at me.

“Get to your rooms.”

Something seeped in, and they went to their bedrooms in peace.

Sandi turned to me. “Well?”

“Coal. I mean, charcoal. In a wrapped package that says, ‘OPEN ME FIRST,’ along with a letter from Santa.”

On Christmas morning, both boys rushed down the stairs, Sandi and I not far behind.

Sandi was all smiles when she lifted the two packages. She gave them to the boys and both tore into them. A sandwich bag, with a charcoal briquette above a letter printed in a script-like font were the only contents.

James perused his letter and his smile vanished.

Sandi sat beside Ian and read his out loud.

The letters were essentially the same, but tailored for each boy. They spoke of selfishness, greed, hatefulness and spite with example after example.

Halfway through Ian’s letter, he spoke through his tears. “I don’t want to hear any more.”

Sandi gave him a loving smile. And continued to the end.

That afternoon, Ian came to my side.

“Dad, we could have gotten nothing, right?”

I nodded.

“But, we were rotten. Why’d we get anything?”

“Remember what the letter said? You got a warning and a second chance. What else did it say?”

“Don’t ignore the warning and don’t throw away the second chance. But, why?”

“Christmas is a season of love. It’s also a time of redemption.”

He glanced at the tree, nodded and went back to his tablet, but put his charcoal briquette, safe in its sandwich bag, in front of him.

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FAITH&FAMILY

t

making space

he countdown began weeks ago as store aisles filled with all things Christmas, just seconds after Halloween ended (if they waited that long). Leaves are barely off trees when we begin writing out to-do lists, filling calendars with parties and purchasing just the right gifts to celebrate the season with people we love and appreciate. All that Christmas means in our homes and families cannot be contained in a single day, so we spend weeks—if not months—preparing for the big event.

Christmas truly is a season of preparation.

It’s what Mary did long ago after hearing of God’s plans to make her a mother to Jesus: “Don’t be afraid, Mary,” the angel told her, “for you have found favor with God! You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you will name him Jesus.” (Luke 1:30-31) Mary had to prepare room in her life for a new baby, and room in her heart to receive this coming Immanuel. One well-known innkeeper failed to prepare room for the coming King and

missed out on playing host to God’s greatest gift to the world.

We prepare for Christmas by hanging wreaths, mailing cards, lighting candles and baking treats, but what about our hearts? Are we preparing room in our hearts to receive our coming King this holiday season? Are we preparing our schedules to allow for time and focus on what we ultimately want to embrace—joy, peace and love? We, too, can have a full “inn” and miss out on what our hearts truly need when we don’t prepare room to receive God’s greatest gift.

In 1719, Isaac Watts penned lyrics to a song intended to give singers a reminder of hope and joy. His inspiration for “Joy to the World” came directly from Pslam 98, and we read in the fourth verse words similar to Watt’s famous carol: “Shout to the Lord, all the earth; break out in praise and sing for joy!” Nearly three centuries later, his song still carries a message of joy and hope throughout Christmas seasons.

One lyric in particular reads more like a hope-filled command: “Let every heart prepare Him room.” It’s as if Watts knew back in the 18th century our human tendency to overfill our hearts with busyness and distractions, like the innkeeper filled his inn. Instead, let’s take a Mary approach this Christmas and prepare room for Love. Every decoration, every party and every gift is simply an opportunity to live out Psalm 98. And while we’re at it, we can belt out “Joy to the World” like we mean it and close out 2016 in joyous celebration.

Faith & Family writer Jena Meyerpeter wishes all the KC Parent readers a blessed and joyful Christmas.

Holidays at the Library Join us for music, merriment, and good cheer as we give thanks, celebrate the season and prepare for the New Year!

Get ready to hear A Christmas Carol, enjoy Storytime with Santa, learn Kwanzaa's Seven Symbols and so much more!

For a list of holiday programs at our branches and to register, visit mymcpl.org/holidays

Access Community

kcparent.com december 2016

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25 DAYS OF

CHRISTMAS:

Kansas City Style

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Envision sugarplums dancing.

Watch the Kansas City Ballet’s Nutcracker (KCBallet.org), showing through Dec. 24.

The show was transformed last year, with more magic and beauty than ever before.

This is a family holiday tradition beloved by generations.

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Christmas Fun at Crown Center.

Celebrate Christmas at Crown Center (CrownCenter.com). Visit Crown Center’s Gingerbread Village and take a photo with Santa.

Then, watch Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical at the Coterie. Create your own holiday cards and decorations at Kaleidoscope or watch Santa dive at Sea Life and enjoy holidays at Legoland Discovery Center. Ice skate at the Crown Center Ice Terrace and take photos under the 100-foot-tall mayor’s Christmas tree.

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Make a Christmas wish. Visit Kansas City’s own Fairy Princess on weekends at the Kansas City Museum (KCMO.gov/ KansasCityMuseum). Read the history of the princess in our “Hometown Holidays” article on KCParent.com.

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Experience the nighttime fairyland. Ride a carriage through the 80 miles of twinkling lights at the Country Club Plaza (CountryClubPlaza.com) and enjoy dinner with the family at one of many terrific restaurants.

The Kansas City Southern Holiday Express

This holiday season, celebrate with a Kansas City Christmas countdown!

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kcparent.com december 2016

1

Commit a random act of kindness.

Pay for the next customer in line. Go caroling at a local nursing home. Adopt a child from Angel Tree and buy gifts. Donate to Harvesters. Look for ways to bless others throughout the holiday season.

2

Celebrate a Dickens Christmas.

For more than three decades, Kansas Citians have been enjoying A Christmas Carol at the Kansas City Repertory Theatre (KCRep.org), showing through Christmas Eve. The holiday production features beautiful music, ornate sets and costumes transporting the audience to Dickens’ England, and an unforgettable telling of the beloved Christmas tale.

7

Shop for gifts. Legends Outlets (LegendsShopping.com) has something for everyone on your list! While shopping, show holiday spirit by taking pictures in front of the 45-foot tree and posting to Instagram, Facebook or Twitter using the hashtag #LegendsHoliday.

Legends Outlets will track the hashtag #LegendsHoliday to be entered to win a $500 Legends Outlets gift card as the grand prize.

8

Celebrate aboard a Christmas train. The Kansas City Southern Holiday Express (KCSouthern.com/en-us/pdf/ 2016-kcs-holiday-express-schedule.pdf) will be at Union Station Dec. 16-20. Stroll through the decorated train and visit Santa Claus and his elves.

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Attend the Nutcracker Tea Party. (Dec. 3-4, NutcrackerTeaParty. com) At the Ritz Charles in Overland Park, enjoy an elegant meal and Crescendo Conservatory’s performance of A Nutcracker.

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Take a spin on the rink.

(Frosty Skate Dec. 21-23, Ice Skating Dec. 24-27, SilversteinEyeCentersArena.com). Bring the family to skate with Santa at the Frosty Skate at Silverstein Eye Centers Arena. Enjoy holiday crafts, skating and more! The rink will be open Dec. 24-27 for indoor skating, a great way to relax after Christmas day!

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Remember toys of Christmas.

The best place in town to celebrate toys is the National Museum of Toys and Miniatures. On Dec. 3, they open the museum’s 9-foot-tall Coleman dollhouse, decked out for the holiday season. On Dec. 18, Father Christmas visits with interactive tales of Old Saint Nick in the museum’s historic Tureman Education Center.

12

Play in a giant gingerbread house. Paradise Park (ParadisePark.com) is home to a bigger-thanlife creation: a giant gingerbread house with a laser light show, awesome holiday music and indoor snow, creating an enchanting, fairy tale memory your whole family will love!

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Walk through the luminaria.

For two magical nights (Dec. 1011, 5:00-7:30), experience Powell Gardens (PowellGardens.org) aglow with the soft light of hundreds of luminaria.

Or visit the Overland Park Arboretum (OPABG.org) for their Holiday Luminary Walk (Nov. 25-26, Dec. 2-3 and 9-10).

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Try a new coffee spot. After a long day of shopping, treat yourself to a cup of coffee to recharge! Some favorites include Homer’s Coffee House, Parisi Café, and, for a special treat, try the Gelatte at Paciugo. A latte made with gelato—so yummy!

Watch your favorite Christmas movies. Union Station (UnionStation.org) is showing favorites on their Extreme Screen. National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (Dec. 2-8) and Polar Express (Dec. 9-15). Or enjoy a date night for grownups at the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema (Drafthouse.com/kansas-city), where they show holiday classics at their holiday viewing parties, complete with thematic food, drink and pre-show games.

Sing Christmas carols. The Mid-Continent Public Libraries (MyMCPL.org) are hosting holiday events all month long, including Christmas concerts and sing-alongs with favorite children’s performers and local musicians.

20

Make old-fashioned decorations. Cut out paper snowflakes using coffee filters for a delicate and pretty effect. Make a paper chain using scrapbook paper for whimsical holiday designs. String popcorn and cranberries and decorate your yard, leaving the garlands as a treat for squirrels and birds.

Drink hot cocoa. Enjoy decadent gourmet cocoa at Panache Chocolatier on the Plaza, Mud Pie in the Volker District or Quay Coffee in City Market. On Dec. 3, 10 and 17, you can enjoy Chocolate Happy Hour at Power and Light District. Enjoy festive music, a hot chocolate bar and Santa!

Paint footprint reindeer or snowmen. Head to a local pottery shop, like Paint Glaze & Fire (PaintGlazeAndFire.net) or Ceramic Café (CeramicCafeKC.com), where you can paint your own ceramics for Christmas—perfect for your own decorations or gift giving.

Wear ugly Christmas sweaters. Then head out for a night of light seeing or window shopping and take silly family photos.

Go sledding. Will we have lots of snow this winter? If so, discover the best sled hills in the area on KCParent.com.

Try something new.

The KCParent.com calendar is overflowing with ideas for holiday fun. Choose a new event to try as part of your celebration this year.

Kristina Light loves celebrating the holidays in her hometown with her husband and four girls.

14

Step back in time for an old-fashioned Christmas.

On Dec. 10, attend Christmas Celebration at Missouri Town 1855. Skilled interpreters share the customs of French, English and German settlers. Enjoy carolers, hot tea and a visit from “Belsnickle”.

15

Put on pjs and drive through Christmas lights. Bundle up and bring some cocoa and cookies on a drive through the best lights in Kansas City.

You’ll find our top picks on KCParent.com.

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Bake goodies for your friends.

Let each member of the family choose one favorite on your mustbake list and bake together. Then, deliver the goodies to your friends and loved ones. For new ideas, you’ll find our favorite recipes on KCParent.com.

Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical at the Coterie Theatre Photo by J. Robert Schraeder and courtesy of the Coterie Theatre kcparent.com december 2016

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what NOTto give kids for Christmas but those tiny pieces easily can turn into a choking hazard for a baby brother and become a huge stress for the parents.

some assembly required Every parent cringes when their child opens a fun and exciting toy and the box has the words “some assembly required.” That innocuous phrase usually means the parent spends hours reading frustrating directions and assembling the toy late into the night. If you are giving a toy that requires assembly, please consider putting it together prior to giving.

a not-so-joyful noise

m

y children began their Christmas lists in October. Curious to see what made the list this year, I read over my daughter’s shoulder and was shocked to see she had asked for a doll that spits up and wets itself, an expensive Lego set and a live donkey. These items were NOT on my Christmas list for my children. We asked Kansas City parents what gifts they most dislike to receive for their children.

a million pieces Everyone is likely to get frustrated with a toy that comes with “a million” pieces. In no time, the pieces tend to get spread across the entire house, and getting them back together is nearly impossible. “Once the pieces are lost, the whole toy is pointless, because you can’t do anything with it if certain pieces are missing,” says Kassie Rew, Olathe mom of three. Prior to giving, also consider the ages of the children in the home. A 9-yearold may ask for Polly Pocket dolls or Legos,

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Loud toys have been irritating parents since toys were invented. Musical instruments, toys with hammers and battery-operated toys with no volume control all contribute to the already high level of noise pollution in the average household. When purchasing a loud toy for a favorite niece or nephew, please stop and imagine its being passed back to your own house when you have children. If that makes you shudder, keep shopping.

discouraged. They fight enough as it is.” Toys such as Nerf guns, swords, punching bags and boxing gloves are not ideal for families that may not want weapons in the house.

Amy Cameron, Olathe mom of three, has a different perspective. “A water gun, light saber or Nerf gun for only one sibling is not desired. They need to be equally armed.”

Asking parents for permission before purchasing these items is best.

Purchasing a gift for someone is always challenging, because you want it to be enjoyed. Ask the parents what they suggest and whether anything is not permitted in the house. If you have a great idea, run it by them first. Consider buying classic toys that are always a hit or an experience like a membership to a local attraction.

Even if you have purchased one of the toys mentioned above or do so in the future, don’t fret. Parents know it truly is the thought that counts and are grateful their children have generous people in their lives.

Sarah Lyons is an Olathe mom of six.

batteries not included While we are talking about batterypowered toys, please consider a few things as you purchase a gift. Does the toy require batteries? If yes, are the batteries regularly available at a reasonable price? “We don’t care for toys that require massive amounts of expensive batteries. Sometimes the batteries cost more than the toy itself,” says Jessi Cole, Overland Park mom of three.

Check whether the toy comes with the batteries or whether you must purchase them separately. Make sure to have batteries on hand when the child opens the gift, so he can begin playing immediately.

gifts parents LOVE to receive for their kids • Educational toys • Experiences: zoo membership, movie passes, classes, camps • Complete gifts: a tablet, case, warranty and gift card for apps • Accessories: a train to go with a new train set, furniture for a new doll house • Books

toys that encourage violence

• Batteries

Lauren Heller, Overland Park mom of twins, says, “Anything that encourages hitting or violence against siblings is

• Practical gifts: clothes, shoes, coats

N

ew year, new places, new life, new experiences, new me! The best part about this new year will be your fresh start. Watching the ball drop in Times Square—or even on the big screen—is always fun, but creating your own little twist on the new year will be epic! Just keep reading and you’ll be sure to find some good tips.

don’t sweat the mess Out with the old and in with the new.

Before you get the party started, get the space in order. Organize your thoughts and then your space. Creating a fun environment for everyone else to enjoy can be a little difficult, especially when you have nice things around. If you normally have your valuables in the room where your family shindig is about to happen, you might want to think again. Organizing your space and your thoughts will save you the headache of looking for things later.

Also, if it gets a little messy at the shindig, don’t sweat it. The mess will leave with the midnight hour—trust me.

don’t watch the clock

cook up finger-lickin’ fun

Counting down the hours can be a bit tedious, but if you have something to do while the clock winds down, everyone can stay happily distracted. Here’s an idea: board games and bingo! Amp up the general party fun by giving young party-goers an opportunity to bring in the new year with a fun trinket. Now, these trinkets don’t have to be huge, just enough to shock and amaze.

Party glasses, a small basket of candy, whoopee cushions and glow sticks are just a few tiny examples. Youngsters always look forward to holiday silliness and sweets.

Play a round of board games like Twister, Connect Four, Sorry, something “Trivial” or even a game of bingo, and give prizes out to the most competitive child. Bragging rights are everything!

Turn your kitchen into your family’s favorite food network show. Give your little chefs a task to complete or issue a food challenge and see which group or little trouper creates the best pizza pie or ice cream sundae. Family blogs flood the internet with fun finger foods for the gang that are budget friendly for broods of all sizes. Mmmmm…I’m hungry already!

remember the big countdown Nothing would be worse for a New Year’s party than forgetting to count down the last 10 seconds of the previous year, so just make sure you don’t. If you have to, hype it up.

Kids get excited by seeing you excited (even those “growing adults”). If the countdown isn’t considered a family thing, make it one.

It’s always fun to have one last BIG trick up your sleeve that the countdown will help you reveal. Just don’t trip over your own left foot when you reveal it—and be sure to make it a good one!

Jessica Samuel is a native of St. Louis and a current Kansas City resident. She is a grad student, photographer and journalist.

ringing

r a e y w e n e h t in

with kids

kcparent.com december 2016

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Eating Healthy during the holidays

“

Failing

to plan is a plan

W

to fail. Take time to do a little

meal planning. Every week, take a pressure, dizziness, itchiness, ith the holiday few minutes to sit down with your planner unexplained pain and a general season in full feeling of being unwell. To swing, the and come up with a meal strategy. On keep your blood sugar in temptation to weeknights you know will be rushed, plan a check, try to eat sweets indulge constantly in treats crock pot meal that you can throw together alongside some protein and is huge. Luckily, you don’t in the morning or even before bed the night healthy fat, munch a small have to say no to everything healthy snack (such as an to keep your energy level (and before. Have a few extra hours on Sunday apple with a tablespoon of your waistline) in check. Follow afternoon? Make a big pot of soup, peanut butter) every three hours these simple tips and tricks to cut veggies for the week and and reduce sugar consumption at keep your body looking its best assemble a casserole breakfast and lunch. and functioning at its peak. or two.

Commit to eating breakfast all Keep your blood sugar levels in season long. After overindulging the night check. In an attempt to prevent weight gain before, skipping breakfast can be tempting, from all the extra sugary treats, a person can especially if you stayed up extra late. However, doing so be tempted to skip the healthy food to save on overall actually sets up your body for additional weight gain. The name calories. This can backfire easily by sending your insulin levels breakfast comes from the phrase “break the fast.” By eating within soaring. Having consistently high blood sugar levels sets up your an hour of waking up, you kick-start your metabolism and let body for a slew of illnesses and creates a breeding ground for it know it is time to start burning calories. If you make healthy lifestyle diseases, including migraines, chronic fatigue, high blood

”

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For more smart snacking solutions, log onto KCParent.com. choices, you also will be giving your body the energy it needs to make it through the day. Even a piece of fruit and a handful of nuts is enough to do the trick. The “I don’t have time” excuse does not fly.

Failing to plan is a plan to fail. Take time to do a little meal planning. Every week, take a few minutes to sit down with your planner and come up with a meal strategy. Sydni Wessels, Shawnee mom and Cross Fit coach, believes this is a crucial step to feeling your best. On weeknights that you know will be rushed, plan a crock pot meal you can throw together in the morning or even before bed the night before. Have a few extra hours on Sunday afternoon? Make a big pot of soup, cut veggies for the week and assemble a casserole or two. Then when the dinner rush hits, you will know you have nutritious food prepared and ready. This makes it much easier to avoid the drive-thru!

Stay hydrated. When the weather gets cool and the schedule gets busy, remembering to drink water can be a challenge. Water nourishes the body on a cellular level. When you don’t get enough, you become easily fatigued, get headaches and can experience brain fog. Often, we mistake our body’s request for thirst as hunger, so it also can contribute to the holiday weight gain. On average, our bodies need about eight glasses of water a day. When we fail to drink enough of it, we become dehydrated and our bodies often confuse hunger with thirst.

Be proactive with your immune system. First and foremost, try to “eat the rainbow” every day. Choosing brightly colored fruits and vegetables is the strongest defense you have to keep your immune system up and running like a finely tuned machine. After that, try to get at least 15 minutes of fresh air each day. When working at your desk, set an alarm to go off every 20 minutes. When it goes off, stand up and move for 20 seconds. Do jumping jacks, squats or lunges, or run in place. Dr. Anthony Evans, Prairie Village dad and chiropractor, reminds that adding just one minute of vigorous exercise an hour is a great way to keep the immune system strong.

Savor your sweets. Finally, when you do choose to indulge in a decadent treat over the holidays, stop what you’re doing and actually savor what you are putting in your mouth. If what you are eating has memories attached to it, take a moment to close your eyes and think back. After all, that’s the best part of the holidays: creating new memories for your family and reminiscing about sweet times from the past.

Shawnee mom Katie Newell is a certified nutrition coach with a passion for helping families become better. She is also a culinary instructor, cookbook author and mama to two sweet girls, ages 7 and 8. HealthnutFoodie.com.

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43

12 tips to tame the

holiday circus

Ask for help! Take a break.

Be kind to yourself. There will always be something to finish––that’s life.

a

re holiday traditions, parties, volunteer commitments and shopping turning you into a

frenzied ringmaster of a runaway circus train? For your sanity and for your health, put the brakes on the holiday rush. Here’s how.

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1

6

2

7

make a “not-to-do” list. Consciously leave a few activities off the program this year. Ellie Griffin, a feminine vitality coach, says this is one of her favorite ways to reduce holiday stress. “I love having my clients do this exercise because it makes them realize how much of what they do doesn’t have an effect on the big picture of their lives,” she says.

end a tradition. Let go of rituals that are more work than fun or are no longer meaningful. Attempting to turn the holiday season into the greatest show on earth could put your health at risk.

According to the American Psychological Association, chronic stress can weaken your immune system, making it harder to recover from illness, and can cause heart disease, obesity and depression.

3

catch your zzz’s. You perform better when you’re well-rested. Strive for seven to eight hours of sleep, which can help you cope better with stress. “Poor sleep habits keep you jittery, irritable and feeling like you’re just dragging yourself around,” says Rosalie Moscoe, author of Frazzled, Hurried Woman! Your Stress Relief Guide to Thriving...Not Merely Surviving.

4

choreograph the chaos. Organize your shopping trips. Ask for help from your significant other. When possible, buy gifts whenever you’re already out running errands. Make shipping presents a breeze by purchasing some online. After pounding the pavement, reward yourself with dinner out, pizza delivery or a glass of wine by a cozy fire.

5

clown around. During the holiday rush try not to schedule every free moment. “By pursuing pleasure in her life, a woman can not only enjoy a more fulfilling life, but in the process increase production of oxytocin, a hormone crucial to lowering stress hormones,” Griffin says. Go through your calendar and block out 15 to 30 minutes each day to do something just for your personal enjoyment, like a manicure, lunch with a friend, yoga, a nap or reading a book.

juggle less. Planning, cooking, cleaning and entertaining can test even the most talented acrobat. Host a lighthearted appetizer party instead of a serious dinner soiree. Choose menu items that can be prepared ahead of time or have the event catered to make it easier for you to enjoy the festivities along with your guests.

rely on your safety net. “Ask for help!

Get your family to help with cleaning up at home. Or, if you can, hire a cleaning person,” Moscoe says. “Take a break. Be kind to yourself. There will always be something to finish—that’s life!” For casual parties, prepare the main dish and ask your friends to bring side items or desserts.

8

revel in the moment. Duck out of the buzzing fluorescent lights and long lines. Take an evening stroll to breathe in the cool December air and admire the holiday lights illuminating the streets. Allow the movement to calm your mind without further stressing your body.

9

feed yourself right. Hunger and exhaustion can bring out the tiger in anyone. Eat wholesome, good-mood foods with protein for energy. “Don’t bring extra cookies or chocolate into the house in advance of the holidays,” Moscoe says.

“This will make you cranky, tired and cause fluctuations in blood sugar.”

10

plan for surprises. Keep tricks up your sleeve for managing those last-minute gift exchanges. While running errands, purchase small gifts that you can stash. And go ahead and store those extra cookies in the freezer for drop-in visitors.

11

simplify decor. If holiday decor makes you sweat, swap timeconsuming and expensive lights and ornaments for homemade decorations. Try making luminaries with your kids. Draw a star or tree on a lunch-size paper bag. Punch holes into the design and fill the bag with sand. Place battery-charged tea lights inside the bags and line them up on your porch or driveway.

12

focus on the magic. Carefully consider what makes the holidays special for you and your family. Ask your kids too. Their answers may surprise you. Perhaps they’d like to try building gingerbread houses this year or want to spend a toasty evening in their pajamas drinking hot chocolate and watching seasonal movies.

Most of all, resolve to bring your holidays from over the big top to just right for you.

Even one small change can make all the difference between anxiously counting the days until the show is over to living in the moment while celebrating more peace and joy with your family this season.

Freelance journalist Christa Melnyk Hines is the author of Confidently Connected: A Mom’s Guide to a Satisfying Social Life.

Her circus resides in Olathe and includes her strongman husband, two children who love to clown around and a pair of entertaining mutts.

Holiday cartoon by Jim Strahle of Kansas City.

little things that can help you relax

• Color in an adult coloring book.

• I ndulge in a pedicure or manicure.

• Take a warm bubble bath.

• Journal.

• L isten to an inspiring podcast.

• Call a friend.

• Watch a sitcom.

• Go to a movie.

• Meet a friend for a coffee.

• T urn on soft music and close your eyes for a few minutes.

• Stretch into yoga.

• Go for a walk.

• Dance to your favorite tune.

• Read a juicy novel.

kcparent.com december 2016

45

Yours, Mine and Ours:

a guide to peacefully co-parenting through the holidays

T

he holidays are here, and with them comes an endless stream of family, tradition and laughter. But for children living in two separate households, things can get extra complicated. Overhearing arguments between divorced parents is the last thing a child should experience during a time that is supposed to be filled with love and compromise. Here are some tips to make your blended family holiday merry and bright.

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stick to the script It’s easy to assume you can remember what the parenting decree states about dates and times during the holidays. But your memory can play tricks on you. Pull out the physical document and review your scheduled parenting time. It also doesn’t hurt to gently remind your child’s other parent to review the schedule. Here’s a good opener: “You know, I was

“Take a step back and remember that the holidays are about family, regardless of its form. Be kind, be patient and let there be peace on earth… or at least in your family.” positive I had the boys on Thanksgiving this year, but I looked and this is your year after all!” By showing you almost made a mistake, you might inspire the other parent to take a quick refresher read.

exists—and equally loved by your child. More than anything, an act like this is a wonderful way to show your child that you understand the importance of the other parent in his/her life.

be open to exceptions

keep traditions alive

Fun holiday events rarely fall in line with parenting schedules.

If your ex asks for a few hours with the kids that are yours, resist the urge to decline immediately. Yes, it’s your time, but ask yourself whether this occasion is something unique that they will enjoy. If the answer is yes and it’s not interfering with something you already had planned, offer compromise and compassion. You never know when you might need the same favor.

When you were together as a family, you likely created traditions.

Maybe you helped at a soup kitchen every Thanksgiving or donated to Toys for Tots at Christmastime. This is not the time to abandon those traditions. Even though your family unit is no longer together, it’s okay to maintain those traditional activities separately. Family traditions may even provide your children with some comfort that a few things will remain the same. So make the weird popcorn strings and play the cheesy holiday music in the car.

Make sure you aren’t treading on the other parent’s deep-rooted family tradition, though. For example, if it was a 30-year institution in your spouse’s family to make egg nog and sing “Oh Come All Ye Faithful,” try something different at your home that can be all yours.

Make Christmas cookies for Santa and write him a note. If your child asks, “Why aren’t we making egg nog and singing?” explain that the egg nog tradition is very special to Daddy, and it’s important that tradition stay with his family.

This time of year is stressful on parents, but it should never transfer to the children. Give yourself and your child’s other parent room to breathe. Errors in scheduling will happen. Last minute changes undoubtedly will occur. Take a step back and remember that the holidays are about family, regardless of its form. Be kind, be patient and let there be peace on earth…or at least in your family.

make a list; check it twice No one wants to hear his child say, “Oh! I just got this doll at Mom’s.” Talk about a holiday buzz kill! Avoid the dreaded giftdouble-take by creating a shared list on Amazon that both parents can access. Users can add items for each child from any site (not just Amazon) and make notes to notify the other parent when a gift has been purchased.

Just remember to play fair. Don’t be the parent that grabs up all the most desired gifts and leaves the other parent with socks and underwear. Spread the fun gifts around to make your child’s experience memorable on both sides.

be thoughtful This time of year isn’t easy for single parents. If your child’s mom (or dad, as the case may be) is without a spouse or significant other, give some grace this holiday season. Consider helping your child pick a special gift for that parent and help wrap it. Although the child’s other parent sometimes can seem like the enemy camp, remember that person still is half the reason your precious kiddo

Kim Antisdel is a freelance writer and interior design sales rep for Kansas City. She lives in Liberty with her husband, two stepdaughters, son and small zoo of rescue animals.

Four Ways to Survive Shared Holiday Events with Kids 1. Acknowledge your ex: Smile, say hello and offer to sit together, even if things are contentious. Be adults and tough it out for the 45-minute recital.

2. Don’t compete: If you aren’t a great cook, don’t try to make a turkey masterpiece for your child’s fifthgrade holiday party. Parenting isn’t a competition. Do what you’re good at and let the rest lie.

3. Keep the talk positive: Avoid condemning your ex for anything within earshot of your kids. They’re always listening. And if they aren’t, their friends are.

4. Don’t make a scene: If your child is leaving the event with her other parent, keep the goodbyes short and sweet. A tear-filled monologue about how much you’re going to miss her tonight creates an unnecessary guilt trip.

kcparent.com december 2016

47

9 ways to have a debt-free holiday

i

t happens earlier and earlier every year.

The holiday music starts playing and the stores offer holiday items for sale earlier and earlier. And the commercials for toys! That’s when I really start to feel anxious. What will we get for our relatives this year? How will we show our appreciation for people like teachers and daycare providers without burning up our credit card? Don’t worry…here’s some help!

1

Have a plan. Yes, this means using

that dirty word: budget. I set up a budget in Excel every year and love it because I easily can set formulas to add and subtract for me. This way I can play with numbers to see how much I actually have available to spend on each person on my shopping list. If doing a budget in Excel isn’t your thing, head to HomeEverAfter.com/christmas-shoppinglist-planner-budget-spreadsheet-freeprintable for a free downloadable and printable holiday budget planner, or you can use Dave Ramsey’s free app and online system Every Dollar.

2

Rack up the credit card reward points, but only if you can handle it.

If your credit card has a rewards program where you can get gift cards based on how much money you put on your card, use it. Caution: You must be able to pay off every cent you put on by the due date. If you don’t have it budgeted, don’t spend it. I’m able to earn a few hundred dollars’ worth of gift cards for holiday spending every year using this system, which I then can use to shop with or just give the gift card itself. If you go to CreditCards.com/ reward.php, the site will compare the top credit card reward programs for you.

3

Rack up the MyPoints. I’ve been

a member of MyPoints.com for many years and have earned gift cards not only by reading emails (five points each), but sometimes by spending money with certain merchants they support. I’m quickly working toward saving up 10,000 MyPoints, which will equal $50 cash in my PayPal account. The bonus is that I use my credit card to purchase gifts I

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would have bought anyway, so I double my holiday earning power.

4

Make it yourself! Gifts in a jar like cookie, cake, pie and drink mixes, and other homemade treats always go over well—and they are cheap to make!

Put them in reusable containers and you’ve gone green as well!

5

Give up on trying to impress. Sure,

6

Sell stuff. Getting rid of your clutter

7

Buy used. Now that your “trash” is

8

Buy nothing! To stay out of debt,

9

Shop early. I love using the annual

the mailman would dig a $100 gift card to a local restaurant, and your sitter would love a $100 iTunes card, but you probably can’t afford that or you wouldn’t be reading this article. Do what you can and let people appreciate you for who you are! not only makes you money, it also makes room for incoming holiday gifts.

You can sell books, toys, clothes, movies, music and more at consignment shops, Craigslist—or even throw a garage sale if you’re really feeling industrious!

going out of your house, you can find “treasure” at thrift shops, consignment shops, garage sales, Craigslist, Amazon and eBay. What a great way to save at least 50 percent on items you’re looking for. consider not buying a gift for your spouse and letting him or her know you want nothing but to live a debt-free life full of security and hope for the future.

If you just can’t stomach that, have a fun time trying to find something for each other on a $10 budget each! A love poem is free and goes a long way in my house.

Toys R Us coupon where I spend $75 and get a $10 gift card at checkout, but the downside is that you have to use it before Thanksgiving! After Thanksgiving, look for other coupons from them.

Overland Park mom Kerrie McLoughlin blogs at TheKerrieShow.com about her roller coaster ride life homeschooling five kids.

MEDIAMIX

it’s beginning to look like... holiday titles fill the shelves this december

By McGeath Freeman

The Biggest Smallest Christmas Present

The Great Spruce

By Harriet Muncaster

Best for: Ages 5-8

Best for: Ages 3-5 Move over Thumbelina—there’s a new tiny girl in town. Her name is Clementine. Her family is quite ordinary in all aspects except for Clementine’s diminutive size. She bathes in a teacup and sleeps in a matchbox. She loves being tiny except that her toys are always too big. Even Santa doesn’t seem to realize how small Clementine actually is. Clementine tries to leave Santa notes, photos and more to help him leave the right gift. Does Santa get it right in the end? Maybe the biggest gift is also the best gift for the smallest little girl. The illustrations pull you in and hold your attention as you long to see what such a tiny little girl is going to do next. Great fun for the holidays.

What’s good: Engaging illustrations that add zest to story time.

What’s bad: Short text that depends on the illustrations to tell the tale.

By John Duvall Illustrated by: Rebecca Gibbon

Every year seems to offer a new story about the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree. The Great Spruce tells this tale with a slightly different approach. This is Alec’s story of a grand tree that his grandfather planted many years ago. It is his favorite climbing tree. One day men from the big city come and get permission to take the tree to the city for Christmas. Alec takes it upon himself to stop them from cutting the tree down. He offers a compromise. They can dig it up and borrow it for the holidays. They use shovels, a crane, a barge and a horse-drawn sleigh, and the tree eventually ends up in the city’s big plaza. The illustrations are brightly colored and offer numerous perspectives to highlight the grandeur of the tree. The end notes offer a glimpse into the Rockefeller Center tree tradition, mentioning a time when live trees actually were used.

Secrets of Hexbridge Castle

By Gabrielle Kent Best for: Ages 8-12 Set in a fictional European village, this tale unleashes magic, dragons, secrets, fantasy and friendship in the first book of a planned series. Alfie is a nice boy who seems out of place. His mother has passed away, and his father has buried himself in his work. Every day seems dull and boring until Alfie inherits a castle.

With the castle come many secrets and powers. Alfie and his cousins soon find themselves embroiled in a mystery and facing off with an evil headmistress.

While not as deep as Harry Potter, this is a fun entrance into the middle grade fantasy genre.

What’s good: A strong voice and authentic character engage the reader.

What’s bad: Some formulaic adventure and fantasy themes.

What’s good: Environmental focus without over-the-top messaging.

What’s bad: It seems unlikely you could dig up a tree quite as big as the one in the book. kcparent.com december 2016

49

december CALENDAR

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

Noon Year’s Eve at Science City

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

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kcparent.com december 2016

see

snap

visit

sip

celebrate

Take the family to see Child of Hope Dec. 2-4. Dancers tell the dramatic and moving true story of the anticipation and arrival of Jesus.

CultureHouse.com

Enter Legends Shopping Social Media Contest.

Take a photo in front of the 45-foot tree and post to social media using #LegendsHoliday for a chance to win prizes.

LegendsShopping.com

Crown Center turns into Santa’s Gingerbread Station this December. Explore the interactive exhibit and have photo taken with Santa Claus.

CrownCenter.com

Join the jolly man in red for Hot Chocolate Happy Hour on Dec. 3, 10 & 17 in Kansas City Live! Festive live music, hot chocolate bar and photos with Santa.

PowerAnd LightDistrict.com

Welcome 2017 with family activities in a safe, kid-friendly environment at Noon Year’s Eve Dec. 31 at Science City. Events include science demos, music, dancing and a HUGE balloon drop!

UnionStation.org

1 Thursday Indoor Play Park 9:00, New Century Fieldhouse. Hop, skip, jump, build with blocks, bounce balls, run and have a blast!

913.826.3024 Christmas in the West 2:00, Nat’l Frontier Trails Museum. Learn more about how pioneers commemorated the holiday season.

816.325.7575 Journey to Judea Thru Sunday, Countryside Baptist Church. Experience the sights and sounds of God’s story up close and personal.

Free, but need tickets. JourneyToJudea.com Holiday Lights on Farmstead Lane 5:00, Deanna Rose. A holiday light display showcasing pictures, animations and effects all synchronized to music. DRFarmstead.org Family Science Night: Science Is Cool 5:30, Kansas City Zoo. Hands-on zoo science night for families to enjoy. Free. KansasCityZoo.org Mayor’s Tree Lighting 6:00, the View (Grandview). Listen to kids sing carols before heading outside to light the tree. The countdown is on! Grandview.org

OLATHE, KANSAS Est. 1858

Kansas City Symphony Presents Handel’s Messiah 7:00, Kauffman Center. The perfect way to kick off your holiday season. KCSymphony.org

First Fridays 5:00, Crossroads Art District.

Galleries and shops remain open the first Friday of each month. KCCrossroads.org

A Christmas Carol 7:00, Spencer Theatre. The KC Rep’s performance returns for its 36th season.

A favorite holiday tradition! KCRep.org

Child of Hope Thru Sunday, White Theatre (JCC). Dancers tell the dramatic and moving true story of the anticipation and arrival of Jesus. CultureHouse.com

Annie 7:30, Yardley Hall (JCCC). Leapin’ lizards!

The world’s best-loved musical returns in timehonored form. JCCC.edu/theseries

2 Friday Snowland Thru Jan 1, Great Wolf Lodge. The lodge is transformed into a winter wonderland with decorations, life-size gingerbread house, Santa and more! GreatWolf.com

Holiday Party 5:30, KC North Community Center. Entertainment, arts and crafts, refreshments, goody bags and pictures with Santa himself! Pre-reg at 816.784.6100.

Celebrate Winter 6:00, Olathe Community Center. Enjoy lighting of Mayor’s tree, music, free activities, Santa and more! OlatheKS.org

Story Time 11:00, Reader’s World (Lee’s Summit). Join us for stories, a snack and a craft.

Free; all ages welcome! 816.246.7323

Santa’s Wonderland 6:00, Gillham Park. Festive live music, entertainment, light displays and, of course, a visit from Santa and his friends. Free.

KCParks.org

Holiday Films 12:30, 3:00, 5:30 & 8:00, Union Station. See National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation on the big screen! $3. UnionStation.org

Sar-Ko Aglow 6:00, Sar Ko Par Trails Park. Kick off the holiday festivities with Lenexa’s lighting celebration. Lenexa.com

Hometown Holiday Today & tomorrow, Downtown Lee’s Summit. Enjoy shopping and dining at more than 30 locally-owned shops and restaurants. DowntownLS.org

Tween Night 6:30, Paint, Glaze & Fire. A night of pizza, painting and pottery with friends!

Enjoy pizza, drink, pottery and supplies for $25.

PaintGlazeAndFire.net

Start your holiday season with a visit to our free

Christmas Open House Saturday, December 3 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Breakfast with Santa Saturday, December 10 $8/person

Registration Required—Visit Mahaffie.org

1200 Kansas City Road Olathe, KS

mahaffie.org 913-971-5111 kcparent.com december 2016

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Holiday Luminary Walk Dec. 2 & 3, 9 & 10 Overland Park Arboretum. The arboretum transforms into a wonderland. $8. ArtsAndRec-op.org

Candlelight Homes Tour Thru Sunday, Weston. Start the holiday season off right with a tour through five historic homes in Weston.

WestonMo.com Candy Cane Lane 6:00, The View (Grandview).

Enjoy crafts and cookies. Bring you list to share with Santa. Free. 816.316.4888 Nighttime Christmas Tour 6:00, Strawberry Hill Museum. See the museum illuminated using Victorian oil lamps. Drinks and dessert follow tour. $20. Pre-reg at 913.371.3264.

The Nativity 7:00, Grace & Holy Trinity Cathedral. Paul Mesner Puppets brings 7-foot biblical puppet characters to life. $11-$16.

816.756.3500 Holiday Luminary Walk Today & tomorrow, Overland Park Arboretum. The arboretum transforms into a wonderland of candles and lights, music and holiday fun. $8.

ArtsAndRec-op.org

3 Saturday Breakfast with Santa 8:00, Parkville.

Breakfast, music, crafts, merriment and some quality time with Santa Claus!

ParkvilleMO.org Breakfast with Santa 8:00, Shoal Creek Golf Course. Enjoy a hot breakfast buffet and a picture with Santa! $7-$15. Pre-reg at 816.407.7242 x 24.

Breakfast with St Nick 8:00, Strawberry Hill Museum. Enjoy breakfast, a visit with St Nicholas and one picture. VisitKansasCityKS.com Breakfast with Santa 8:30, Webster House.

Enjoy a tasty breakfast buffet and get your child’s photo with Santa. Pre-reg at CCVI.org.

Holiday Nature Crafts 9:00, Burr Oak Woods.

Craft up some fun using nature-made materials plus pose with Smokey Bear for a holiday photo. 816.228.3766

Small Mall 9:00, CW Parker Carousel Museum.

Elves help kids shop for gifts and then enjoy a free carousel ride. Craft sale for adults. 913.683.2434 Coleman Open House 10:00, National Museum of Toys and Miniatures. See the museum’s 9-foottall dollhouse decked out for the holiday season.

816.235.8000 Winter Wonder Weekend Today & tomorrow, Downtown Lawrence. Usher in the holidays.

Listen to carolers, shop for unique gifts, watch an old-fashioned parade and more.

DowntownLawrence.com

TRAIN RIDES Kids under three FREE

Santa Train Departures are 9 am, 11 am and 1 pm Saturday, Dec. 3

Nov. 16

Apr. 3

BEN FRANKLIN & HIS KITE

SOLVE IT CYRUS!

Jan. 31 I HAVE A DREAM

Mar. 7

Apr. 17

THE RAINBOW FISH

www.follytheater.org

TEACHER FROM THE BLACK LAGOON & OTHER STORIES

816.474.4444

The Folly Kids’ Series is made possible through generous support from the Missouri Arts Council, ArtsKC, Oppenstein Brothers Foundation, Commerce Bank Trustee, Theater ROcKs, Theater League’s educational outreach program, R.A.Long Foundation, McDonnell Foundation, Hallmark Corporate Foundation, Sullivan Family Foundation, All Sponsors and Donors to the Folly Frolic Benefit Concert.

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kcparent.com december 2016

Check website for price Reservations required for this event

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

Santa Train Various Times, Belton, Grandview & KC RR. Winter train ride with Santa includes hot cocoa and a cookie. Tickets at BeltonRailroad.org.

Christmas Ornament Making Project 10:00, Lowe’s. Build your own Christmas ornaments.

Get a free apron, goggles and patch! Free.

LowesBuildAndGrow.com

Christmas Around Town 4:30, Shawnee Town 1929. Visit Santa, greet live reindeer, sing along with carolers and much more!

913.248.2360

Fill a Bag for $6 10:00, Children’s Orchard (Olathe). Fill as many bags as you like full of selected resale items for only $6 per bag.

ChildrensOrchard.com

Arabian Horse Show Today & tomorrow, Hale Arena. See horses and riders from all over the nation competing in classes. AmericanRoyal.com

Magical Night 5:00, Kearney Firehouse Creative Center. Meet Santa and enjoy activities for the entire family. KearneyFirehouse.org

Sugar Plum Fairy Ball 10:30, Muehlebach Tower. Dine on a delicious lunch and have photos taken with the Sugar Plum Fairy. Then enjoy KC Ballet’s The Nutcracker. KCBallet.org

Santa’s Wonderland 5:30, Penguin Park.

Experience the wonder of the season at Kansas City’s holiday tradition, Santa’s Wonderland!

Free. 816.513.7500

Christmas Open House 10:00, Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop. String popcorn and cranberries, make an ornament and see what is cooking on the cookstove. Mahaffie.org Mother Nature Reads 10:00, Lakeside Nature Center. Hear a story, learn cool facts about an animal and make a craft.

LakesideNatureCenter.org Nutcracker Tea Party Today & tomorrow, Ritz Charles. Enjoy finger food and tea while watching a condensed version of The Nutcracker. $35-$50. NutcrackerTeaParty.org Santa Express 10:00, Nat’l Ag Center and Hall of Fame. Ride the Union Pacific train and take in the Christmas on the Farm decorations. AgHallOfFame.com

‘Twas Etc 10:30, MCPL (Antioch). Join Mrs Claus for a wacky storytelling session of “The Night Before Christmas.” Pre-reg at MyMCPL.org.

S’Mores with Santa 11:00, Alamo Drafthouse Mainstreet. Photos, s’mores and the movie Polar Express! For more details and tickets, visit PowerAndLightDistrict.com.

Santa Dives with Penguins 2:00, Kansas City Zoo. What’s red and swimming with the penguins? Santa! Get a photo as penguins torpedo around him. KansasCityZoo.org Christmas on the Farm 2:00, Watkin’s Woolen Mill. Stroll along lantern-lit paths to the Watkins family home. Enjoy crafts, refreshments and more. 816. 580.3387

Experience a Magical Kansas City Tradition

HOLIDAYS

Sundown with Santa & Mayor’s Tree Lighting 5:30, Merriam Marketplace. Holiday music, games, hot cocoa for all and good cheer!

913.322.5550 Anderson House Christmas Today & tomorrow, Battle of Lexington Historic Site.

Tour the Anderson House while it is decorated for the holidays. 660.259.4654 The Ten Tenors “Home for the Holidays” 8:00, Yardley Hall (JCCC). Join Australia’s rock stars of opera for traditional and contemporary seasonal favorites. JCCC.edu/theseries

Your Kids will love it!

FOURTH ANNUAL

at Union Station

S CIENCE C IT Y.COM

12.31.16

Photo Courtesy: Roy Inman Photographs ©

Noon-7 pm

Join us for events all season!

Holiday Classic Movie Series kicks off Nov. 26 Board the KC Southern Holiday Express Train & meet Santa Dec. 16-20 (FREE) Special Snow Globe Performance Dec. 17 (FREE)

Full schedule at UnionStation.org

• Science demos

• Fun, Hands-On ACtivities

• Music, Dancing and Treats • 2,000+ balloon Drop!

• AND MORE!

Avoid the line.

Preorder your tickets today!

Regular admission rates apply.

FREE for Union Station Members! kcparent.com december 2016

53

4 Sunday Brunch with Santa 11:00, the Gallery Event Space. Brunch, cookie decorating, photos with Santa, ”’Twas the Night Before Christmas” performance and more! TicketFly.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 The Happy Elf 2:00, Blue Springs City Theatre.

The tale of Eubie the Elf who wants to spread Christmas joy throughout the town of Bluesville. BlueSpringsCityTheatre.com Christmas Twilight Tour 4:00, BinghamWaggoner Estate. See the mansion in all its splendor in the evening when the lights really POP! BWEstate.net

Toddle Time 10:00, Bonner Springs Community Center. Kids 9 months through 5 years enjoy playing on the large assortment of toys. $2.

BonnerSprings.org

Preschool Indoor Playground 9:30, Irene B French Community Center. Kids, drive your favorite vehicle, jump in the bounce house or pretend in the kitchen. $2. 913.322.5550

Annual Pass Sale Thru Dec 24, Legoland & Sea Life. Give the gift of the ultimate indoor Lego playground or underwater discoveries.

816.471.4386

Story Time 10:00, Kansas City Public Library (Central Library). A fun time for all ages to talk, sing, read, write and play. Free. 816.701.3407

Power Hour 1:00, Little Monkey Bizness.

Arrive between 1:00 and 3:00 on Mondays and Wednesdays and admission is just $6 plus tax!

913.631.7000 A Visit with Santa Claus 6:30, MCPL (Weston).

Get in the Christmas spirit with a story from Santa, then make a simple craft to take home.

Pre-reg at MyMCPL.org.

Christmas in the Park 5:30, Longview Lake Park. Drive through the park to view it turned into an enchanted winter wonderland.

JacksonGov.org

A Christmas Concert 7:00, Kauffman Center. Join Shawnee Mission Health for Christmas music performed by the Kansas City Symphony. Free, but ticket req’d.

816.471.0400

5 Monday

6 Tuesday

Santa’s Gingerbread Station 10:00, Crown Center Shops. Explore interactive exhibit and have photo taken with Santa Claus.

CrownCenter.com

Pompeii: the Exhibition Thru April, Union Station. Exhibit examines lives of the residents of Pompeii before and after the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. UnionStation.org

Mayor’s Tree Lighting 5:30, Main Street (Blue Springs). Enjoy entertainment, as well as free refreshments. See Santa and other special guests. BlueSpringsGov.com

7 Wednesday Open Play 10:00, Jump City. Bring the kids to Jump City—where excitement and laughs are found daily! $8/child; parents are free.

JumpCityKC.com Toddler Time 10:00, Sky Zone Lee’s Summit.

The main court, Foam Zone and Sky Slam are open just for the younger set, 5 and under.

SkyZone.com/leessummit Children’s Corner 10:00, Tomahawk Ridge Community Center. A fun, free morning of entertainment every first Wednesday. Today, Stone Lion Puppet Theatre. 913.895.6390

The Nativity Puppet Show

Dec. 2-4 at Grace & Holy Trinity Episcopal Cathedral, 415 W. 13th St., Kansas City, MO. This celebrated annual spectacle comes alive again this December! Come see beautiful, 7-foot puppets gracefully move through the aisles of the historic cathedral with live musical and choral accompaniment. A cast of more than 40 puppeteers brings these larger-than-life biblical characters to life. MesnerPuppets.org

Child of Hope

Dec. 2-4, produced by Störling Dance Theater at the White Theatre (JCCKC) Child of Hope is a professional production and collaboration between Störling Dance Theater and the Culture House. Act 1 will immerse audiences in beautiful arrangements of Christmas songs and hymns and inspiring stories of their origins. Then, Act 2 presents the Nativity. Biblically accurate and sensitive to the historic nature of the coming of Jesus Christ, this telling by Störling and included dancers conveys the dramatic and moving true story of the anticipation and arrival of Jesus. CultureHouse.com

Heart of America Christmas Pageant

Living Nativities in Kansas City These are a few of the living Nativity events and pageants celebrating the season in Kansas City this year. Visit KCParent.com for a complete calendar.

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Dec. 2-4 and 9-11 at First Baptist Church Raytown, 10500 E. State Rte. 350, Raytown, MO During the first two weekends of December annually, more than 600 First Baptist family members present the story of Christ’s birth, life, death and Resurrection. A dazzling blend of heart-stirring music, drama and dance will transport you back to the very first Christmas in Bethlehem, as well as the miracles, crucifixion, resurrection and Second Coming of Jesus Christ. FirstBaptistRaytown.com

Journey To Bethlehem

Dec. 11, Community Covenant Church, 15700 W. 87th St., Lenexa, KS Take a journey from Jerusalem to Bethlehem. Along the way, discover the individual and powerful stories of Zechariah, Elizabeth, Mary, Joseph, the Shepherds and the Wise Men. Throughout this journey, you will firsthand experience the good news as it comes to life in front of your eyes and will have the opportunity to participate and respond as you experience the true meaning of what Christmas is all about. Coinciding with the journey is a marketplace open to sample authentic food, crafts and animals. Please allow at least 30 minutes to walk through the marketplace experience. Tours leave every 5 minutes. Register for a time at CCKS.org/journey-to-bethlehem.

Come Adore Him at Christmas in the Barn

Dec. 24 at Johnson Farms (17701 Holmes Rd., Belton, MO, 816.331.1067) The Johnson Farm community of friends will share a full sensory celebration of our Savior’s birth. The heated barn has priority seating and parking available for those who need it. Although the barn is heated, please dress warmly and check the website for updates or cancelations due to inclement weather. Homemade sweets and hot beverages will be served, and live music will set the mood. JohnsonFarms.net

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 at 913.661.2529.

N AND S TAT I O G UNION Y SWIN AW B E R R T H E S T RI E C R A F T F A I R IND PRESENT the

Animal Tales 10:30, Ernie Miller Nature Center.

A 30-minute program that includes stories, songs and a visit from an animal friend. Today’s theme: Winter Weather. $2. 913.764.7759

ANNUAL

kids crafts

75th Anniversary of Pearl Harbor 6:30, Nat’l World War 1 Museum and Memorial. Lt Col Dick Cole and Dr Dennis R Okerstrom reflect on the impact of Pearl Harbor. Free with RSVP.

8 Thursday

lil makers

photo boot

h

Instagram Contest Thru Dec 19, Legends Outlets. Take a photo in front of the 45foot tree and post to social media using #LegendsHoliday for a chance to win prizes.

LegendsShopping.com Open Gym 9:00, Indian Creek Community Church. Kids will have a blast with ride-on toys, a bounce house, balls, games and more!

913.829.0712 Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: the Musical 10:00 & Noon, the Coterie. Get into the Christmas spirit with a play based on the television special. TheCoterie.org

UNION STATION • 30 W PERSHING RD • KCMO

SUNDAY DECEMBER 11 10AM - 6PM

HANDMADE & V I N TA G E V E N D O R S shop handmade • shop local www.strawberryswingkc.com

Toddle Time 10:00, Bonner Springs Community Center. Kids 9 months through 5 years enjoy playing on the large assortment of toys. $2.

BonnerSprings.org Santa’s House 6:00, Downtown Parkville. Come visit Santa at his house, in historic downtown Parkville. ParkvilleMo.org The Nutcracker 7:30, Kauffman Center. The Kansas City Ballet performs a reimagined show with new sets and choreography. KCBallet.org

9 Friday Story Time with Santa and Mrs Claus 10:00, MCPL (Raytown). Santa and Mrs Claus are making a special trip from the North Pole to read a holiday story. Pre-reg at MyMCPL.org.

Polar Express Pajama Party 12:30, 3:00, 5:30 & 8:00, Union Station. Come dressed in your pajamas and enjoy the Polar Express on KC’s largest screen! $3. UnionStation.org Parents Night Out 6:00, Kansas City North Community Center. Parents can enjoy an evening out to relax while the children have a safe night of fun! 816.784.6100

kcparent.com december 2016

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The Nutcracker Thru Dec. 24, Kauffman Center. The Kansas City Ballet performs a reimagined show with new sets and choreography. KCBallet.org

Holiday Luminary Walk Today & tomorrow, Overland Park Arboretum. The arboretum transforms into a wonderland of candles and lights, music and holiday fun. $8.

ArtsAndRec-op.org

Amahl and the Night Visitors 7:00, St John’s UMC. The Christmas classic performed by the UMKC Conservatory Opera. Free; concessions available.

StJohnsUMC.org

Candlelight Tours 6:00, John Wornall House.

Enjoy the season in Victorian style with holiday decorations, carolers, games, music and treats.

816.444.1858

Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain 8:00, Yardley Hall (JCCC). The world renowned allsinging, all-plucking ukulele superstars return with holiday cheer! JCCC.edu/theseries

Table Toppers 6:30, the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Create a table runner with your own lines, shapes and patterns. Ages 6-13 with adult; pre-reg at 816.751.1278.

Jim Brickman with the Kansas City Symphony 8:00, Kauffman Center. A one-of-a-kind concert event filled with lush instrumentals and soaring vocals. KCSymphony.org

Breakfast with Santa 8:30, Mahaffie Stagecoach. Enjoy the holiday decorations of the Heritage Center while you eat pancakes with Santa. Must pre-reg at Mahaffie.org.

Brush Creek Holiday Party 6:30, Brush Creek.

Entertainment, crafts, refreshments, goody bags and, of course, pictures with Santa! Prereg at KCParks.org.

10 Saturday

Breakfast with Santa 9:00, Gary Crossley Ford.

Enjoy a free pancake breakfast and visit with Santa. Sponsored by Variety Club. Pre-reg at VarietyKC@gmail.com.

Middle School Teen Night 7:00, Paradise Park.

For only $15 get a bumper car ride, $10 fun card and a personal pizza. DJ, ping pong tables and more. Paradise-Park.com

Breakfast at the North Pole 8:00, Johnson County Fairgrounds. Enjoy all-you-can-eat pancakes, sausage links and juice from Chris Cakes. $5-$6. GardnerKansas.gov

A Christmas Celebration 9:00, Missouri Town 1855. The Christmas customs of English, German and French settlers are brought to life.

816.229.8980

2016 WINNER

family faves

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Breakfast with Santa 9:00, Ernie Miller Nature Center. Bring a parent and have breakfast followed by a visit with Santa. Pre-reg at JCPRD.com.

Rudolph Revue 11:00 & 2:00, Puppetry Arts Institute. Santa and his North Pole pals welcome the season with a song and dance puppet show. Hazelle.org

Holiday Nights 7:00, Atkins-Johnson Farm. Live holiday music and carolers, holiday crafts for adults and kids, spiced cider, vintage toy display and more. Free. 816.423.4107

Youth Art Class 10:00, Nerman Museum.

Learn about different styles of drawing and create a sketchbook with your own designs.

JCCC.edu/youth

Open Gym 12:30, Elite Gymnastics & Aquatics.

Run, jump and play in the foam pit, rope swings and more. EliteGymSwim.com

11 Sunday

Fairy Princess Saturdays & Sundays thru Dec 18, 10:00, Kansas City Museum. Arts, crafts and a visit with the Fairy Princess. $10.

KansasCityMuseum.org Sharky Santa 10:00, Sea Life Aquarium (2500 Grand Blvd). Merry Fishmas! Meet Sharky Santa and tell him all of your holiday wishes!

VisitSeaLife.com Holiday Marketplace 10:00, Roeland Park Community Center. Enjoy a visit from Santa, holiday crafts and a special shopping experience. 913.826.3160 Around the Square Open House 10:00, Downtown Liberty. A ticketed chocolate crawl to enjoy sweet treats around the square. $10.

ClayCountyMuseum.org

Music in the Museum 1:00, National Museum of Toys and Miniatures. Take a break from the hectic holiday season to enjoy traditional holiday music. 816.235.8000 Second Saturdays 4:00, Downtown Weston.

Stroll into unique gift shops and galleries for late night shopping and in-store specials.

WestonMo.com A Kansas City Christmas Today & tomorrow, Lenexa Baptist Church. Enjoy Christmas music featuring the LBC choir and orchestra, followed by dessert buffet. LenexaBaptist.com Gardens by Candlelight 5:00, Powell Gardens.

Take a family stroll through the gardens aglow with hundreds of luminaries. PowellGardens.org Christmas Light 5K Run 5:30, NKC City Hall.

Join us for the fourth annual Christmas Light 5K and 1-mile walk to benefit the North Kansas City YMCA.

Ginormous Gingerbread House Party 9:30, Paradise Park. A laser light show and awesome holiday music make this the best interactive gingerbread house. Paradise-Park.com Holiday Swing 10:00, Union Station. Celebrate the holidays and the handmade movement with handmade and vintage vendors, kids crafts and more. TheStrawberrySwing.com Whoville Holidays 10:00, the City Market.

Calling Who’s of all ages! Celebrate the season with the Grinch and Cindy Lou Who. TheCityMarket.org Holiday Bricktacular 10:00, Legoland Discovery Center. See Winter Wonderland in Miniland, take your photo with Lego Santa and more! LegolandDiscoveryCenter.com Santa Express 1:00, Nat’l Ag Center and Hall of Fame. Ride the Union Pacific train and take in the Christmas on the Farm decorations. AgHallOfFame.com

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A Christmas Carol Thru Dec. 24, , Spencer Theatre. The KC Rep’s performance returns for its 36th season. A favorite holiday tradition! KCRep.org

A Christmas Carol 1:00 & 5:00, Spencer Theatre.

The KC Rep’s performance returns for its 36th season. A favorite holiday tradition! KCRep.org Journey to Bethlehem 4:30, Community Covenant Church. Travel back in time with us as we take a journey from Jerusalem to Bethlehem.

Pre-reg for a tour time at CCCKS.org.

Christmas in the Park 5:30, Longview Lake Park. Drive through the park to view it turned into an enchanted winter wonderland.

JacksonGov.org

12 Monday Baby Story Time 9:30, Jo Co Library (Blue Valley Branch). A lap-sit program of songs, rhymes and movement for the very young. Free.

JoCoLibrary.org Songs of the Season 10:00, Mesner Puppet Theater. Celebrate the music of the season by exploring the songs (and stories behind the songs) of classic tunes. MesnerPuppets.org

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 Power Hour 1:00, Little Monkey Bizness.

Arrive between 1:00 and 3:00 on Mondays and Wednesdays and admission is just $6 plus tax! 913.631.7000 Holiday Lights on Farmstead Lane 5:00, Deanna Rose. A holiday light display showcasing pictures, animations and effects all synchronized to music. DRFarmstead.org

13 Tuesday

Story Time 10:00, Kansas City Public Library (Central Library). A fun time for all ages to talk, sing, read, write and play. Free. 816.701.3407

Pompeii: the Exhibition Thru April, Union Station. Exhibit examines lives of the residents of Pompeii before and after the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. UnionStation.org

Creative Story Time 11:00, Ceramic Café. Read a book and then paint a ceramic item that goes along with the story. Finish with a snack. $9.50.

CeramicCafeKC.com

Preschool Indoor Playground 9:30, Irene B French Community Center. Kids, drive your favorite vehicle, jump in the bounce house or pretend in the kitchen. $2. 913.322.5550

Two-For-One Tuesdays 5:00, Crown Center Ice Terrace. After 5:00, pay one full price admission and receive a second for free! CrownCenter.com

santa sightings in kansas city

This is just the tip of the iceberg! For TONS more Santa sightings, visit KCParent.com.

Santa Express Dec. 3-4 &10-11, National Agricultural Center and Hall of Fame, 630 Hall of Fame Dr., Kansas City, KS. Join Santa in the train depot! Ride the Union Pacific train and take in the Christmas on the Farm decorations. Have a cookie and make sure Santa knows exactly what you want for Christmas!

Santa Dives with Penguins Dec. 3-4, 10-11 & 17-18, Kansas City Zoo, 6800 Zoo Dr., Kansas City, MO What’s red and white and swimming with the penguins at Helzberg Penguin Plaza? Santa! Get a one-of-a-kind photo of Santa as penguins torpedo around him. Watch the penguin bubbles trail the man in the red suit and hear the children giggle.

Photos with Santa Thru Dec. 23, Town Center Plaza, 5000 W. 119th St., Leawood, KS Experience the magic of the holiday season with Santa Photos

by Jordan Photography located near Barnes & Noble. Special events include Sensitive Santa for children with special needs and their families. They can enjoy a sensory-friendly environment to safely experience the joys of visiting Santa. Shoppers can also capture fetching photo moments with their faithful companions

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during Pet Photos with Santa. Schedule appointments at JordanPhotography.com.

Holiday Bricktacular Dec. 10-11 & 17-18, Legoland Discovery Center, 2500 Grand Blvd., Kansas City, MO Step into an indoor winter wonderland bursting with Lego bricks! Fun includes: Winter Wonderland in Miniland—walkin’ in a winter Miniland! Meet Lego Santa: Take your picture with him and tell him your Christmas wishes!

The KCS Holiday Express Dec. 15-20, Union Station, 30 W. Pershing, Kansas City, MO Guests to the train can visit with Santa Claus and walk through three cars filled with holiday displays. The cars feature a smiling tank car named Rudy; a flatcar carrying Santa’s sleigh, reindeer and a miniature village; a gingerbread boxcar; the elves’ workshop; a reindeer stable; and a little red caboose.

Elves’ Workshop Dec. 17 & 18, Martha Lafite Thompson Nature Sanctuary, 407 N. LaFrenz Rd., Liberty, MO Celebrate the holidays with a visit to the elves’ workshop!

Children are invited to visit the nature center for face painting, treats, crafts, Santa and more! The Elves’ Holiday Store will be open for children only.

iFLY Kids Club 6:00, iFly. On Tuesdays, receive coaching and a 5-minute block. Must have previously flown. $69.95. For details and to prereg, call 913.305.4359.

14 Wednesday Snowland Thru Jan 1, Great Wolf Lodge. The lodge is transformed into a winter wonderland with decorations, life-size gingerbread house, Santa and more! GreatWolf.com Open Play 10:00, Jump City. Bring the kids to Jump City—where excitement and laughs are found daily! $8/child; parents are free.

JumpCityKC.com

Family in town?

Toddler Time 10:00, Sky Zone Lee’s Summit.

The main court, Foam Zone and Sky Slam are open just for the younger set, 5 and under.

SkyZone.com/leessummit What’s for Dinner? 3:30, Burr Oak Woods.

Watch on Wednesdays and Saturdays as the captive amphibians, fish and turtles enjoy their feast. 816.228.3766 Winter Solstice Hike 5:00, George Owens Nature Park. Enjoy the beginning of winter with a walk along a torch-lit path and then warm up at the outdoor fire. 816.325.7115

15 Thursday

Fun for everyone. | FREE

Go online for all events, tours & exhibitions.

45th & Oak, Kansas City, Missouri | nelson-atkins.org KC Parent_NelsonAtkins General_Dec 2016_FNL.indd 1

11/2/16 10:24 AM

Instagram Contest Thru Dec 19, Legends Outlets. Take a photo in front of the 45foot tree and post to social media using #LegendsHoliday for a chance to win prizes.

LegendsShopping.com Open Gym Noon, Integrity Gymnastics. A great time to practice, get familiar with the gym and for kids to release energy. $6. IntegrityOP.com Christmas in the West 2:00, Nat’l Frontier Trails Museum. Learn more about how pioneers commemorated the holiday season.

816.325.7575 Christmas in the Park 5:30, Longview Lake Park. Drive through the park to view it turned into an enchanted winter wonderland.

JacksonGov.org Third Thursday 6:00, Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Date night! Live music, free programs, art activities and more that showcase local talent.

Nelson-Atkins.org Discovery Concert 7:00, Folly Theater.

WindSync offers up a holiday treat that includes selections from The Nutcracker, folk tunes and carols. Free. FollyTheater.org kcparent.com december 2016

59

december by the numbers

4.4

Average inches of snowfall in December in Kansas City.

2,000 Weight in pounds of Zona Rosa’s holiday crowns, replicas of decorations used in historic Downtown KC.

25

7

Height in feet of the puppets used for Mesner Puppets’ Nativity production.

1915 The year Hallmark makes its first Christmas cards.

36

Years the KC Rep has performed A Christmas Carol.

Price in cents for children to visit the Fairy Princess at Kline’s store in Downtown KC, telling her their Christmas wishes.

Now, visitors see her at the KC Museum.

80

Miles of lights making up the Country Club Plaza light display, which is now 100 percent LED.

1933 On Dec. 11 of this year, the NelsonAtkins Museum of Art opens.

1.76 Billion candy candy canes made annually.

165

Pounds of sugar used annually to create Crown Center’s Gingerbread Village.

NOTE:

Recipe for Gingerbread Village at Crown Center 170 lbs. sugar 165 lbs. flour 1,620 eggs 8 gal. egg whites 20 lbs. ginger 20 gal. molasses 20 lbs. baking soda 14 lbs. salt 180 lbs. assorted candies

16 Friday Jumperoo 9:00, Urban Air Trampoline Park. A special time for those 5 and under to enjoy access to the playground and trampoline attractions. $10/child; parents are free. 800.960.4778 The Three Wise Cats: A Christmas Musical 10:00, Union Station. The cats launch the first annual Christmas Cat Carnival in an alley.

TYA.org Toddler Tumbling 10:00, Kansas City North Community Center. Toddlers enjoy fun exercise while building motor coordination. $5.

816.784.6100 Kansas City Southern Holiday Express Thru Dec 20, Union Station. Visit with Santa and his elves and tour the inside of three cars of the festive six-car train. UnionStation.org A One-Room Schoolhouse Christmas 1:00, Lanesfield Historic Site. Write a letter to Santa with pen and ink and create your very own ornament. JoCoGov.org

Holiday Greenings 10:00, Anita B Gorman Discovery Center. Learn to decorate using native plants and trees. Fashion a festive holiday swag. 816.759.7300

Father Christmas Visits 1:00, National Museum of Toys and Miniatures. Father Christmas comes to the museum to share stories of holidays past.

Bring a camera for photos! 816.235.8000

Scavenger Saturdays 10:00, Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art. Follow the clues on this “ART-tastic” adventure! 816.753.5784

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

Mother Nature Reads 10:00, Lakeside Nature Center. Hear a story, learn cool facts about an animal and make a craft.

LakesideNatureCenter.org

The Night Shift Before Christmas 6:00, Central United Methodist Church. This short musical is a perfect introduction to theater for young ones. ConnectAtCentral.com

Book Signing 11:00, Little Monkey Bizness.

Gary Lezak will be signing copies of his book, It’s a Sunny Life, 11:00-12:30. 913.631.7000

Santa’s House 6:00, Downtown Parkville. Come visit Santa at his house, in historic downtown Parkville. ParkvilleMo.org

Open Gym 12:30, Elite Gymnastics & Aquatics.

Run, jump and play in the foam pit, rope swings and more. EliteGymSwim.com Elves’ Workshop 1:00, Martha Lafite Thompson Nature Sanctuary. Visit for face painting, treats, crafts, Santa and more! NatureSanctuary.com

David Basse & Joe Cartwright Septet 7:00, Polsky Theatre (JCCC). Part of Winterlude, a series of concerts featuring local and international jazz performers. JCCC.edu/theseries

19 Monday

The Nutcracker 5:00, Kauffman Center. The Kansas City Ballet performs a reimagined show with new sets and choreography. KCBallet.org

Santa Dives with Penguins 2:00, Kansas City Zoo. What’s red and swimming with the penguins? Santa! Get a photo as penguins torpedo around him. KansasCityZoo.org

Ginormous Gingerbread House Party 9:30, Paradise Park. A laser light show and awesome holiday music make this the best interactive gingerbread house. Paradise-Park.com

Study Skills Seminar 5:00, Tutoring Center.

Work on organization skills, effectively studying for tests, memorization and more. Pre-reg at KansasCity.com/tutoringcenter.

Clara’s Dream 2:00 & 7:00, Olathe South High School. Miller-Marley’s annual production showcasing their version of The Nutcracker.

MillerMarley.com

Baby Story Time 9:30, Jo Co Library (Blue Valley Branch). A lap-sit program of songs, rhymes and movement for the very young. Free.

JoCoLibrary.org

Third Friday Art Walk 5:30, Englewood Station Arts District. Tour the art galleries. View live performances and artists on the sidewalks in front of shops. EnglewoodStation.com

Skate with Santa 2:00, Line Creek Community Center. Join the jolly big man for some fun and festivity on ice! FREE admission can of food donated. 816.513.0760

Toddle Time 10:00, Bonner Springs Community Center. Kids 9 months through 5 years enjoy playing on the large assortment of toys. $2.

BonnerSprings.org

The Mystery Train 6:30, Crowne Plaza Hotel.

Join in A Christmas Stalking, an interactive dinner theater event. KCMysteryTrain.com

Hot Chocolate Happy Hour 4:00, Kansas City Live! Festive live music, hot chocolate bar and photos with Santa (bring your own camera).

PowerAndLightDistrict.com

Token Mondays 10:00, Cool Crest. For only $15 you can enjoy 100 tokens—no coupon required. CoolCrest.com

17 Saturday Breakfast with Santa and Mrs Claus 9:00, Powell Gardens. Join Santa and Mrs Claus for a fun morning. Enjoy pancakes by Chris Cakes, storytelling, craft and more. $7-13.

PowellGardens.org Kids in the Kitchen 7:30, Jo Co K-State Research. L earn how to make cute, yummy holiday cupcakes, along with food safety, cooking skills and nutrition. Pre-reg at 913.715.7000.

Celebrate Snowflakes 10:00, MCPL (Blue Springs South). Read a story, sing songs and make unique snowflakes. Pre-reg at MyMCPL.org.

Winter Solstice 6:30, Ernie Miller Nature Center.

Take a break from the holiday busyness with a stroll through the woods. 913.764.7759

18 Sunday Whoville Holidays 10:00, the City Market.

Calling Who’s of all ages! Celebrate the season with the Grinch and Cindy Lou Who. TheCityMarket.org Heather’s Art Garden Holiday Show 12:30, Lakeside Nature Center. A sing-along songfest with holiday and original children’s music.

816.513.8960

Open Gym Noon, 360 Gymnastics. A great opportunity for kids to run, play, explore and burn off energy! $3-$5. KC360Gym.com Film and Float 7:00 High Blue Wellness Center Lap Pool (Belton). Bring the whole family out for movie night at the pool. See Inside Out, enjoy popcorn and more! BeltonParks.org

20 Tuesday 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

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Frosty Skate Dec. 21-23, Silverstein Eye Centers Arena. Ice skating, holiday crafts, Santa Claus and lots of family fun! $5-$8. 816.442.6100

Preschool Indoor Playground 9:30, Irene B French Community Center. Kids, drive your favorite vehicle, jump in the bounce house or pretend in the kitchen. $2. 913.322.5550

Toddle Time 9:00, Matt Ross Community Center. Open playtime with an array of toys, including blocks, balls and puzzles. $1-$2. 913.895.6350

Story Time 10:30, Jump City. Kids enjoy story time and then stay for unlimited playtime. $5.

JumpCityKC.com

Songs of the Season 10:00, Mesner Puppet Theater. Celebrate the music of the season by exploring the songs (and stories behind the songs) of classic tunes.

MesnerPuppets.org

Creative Story Time 11:00, Ceramic Café. Hear a story, create a pottery piece and enjoy a simple snack. 913.383.0222 Tots on Tuesday 11:00, Kemper Museum.

Bring in your preschooler for a fun and fashionable get-together every third Tuesday.

816.753.5784

21 Wednesday Free Play Cedar Ridge Christian Church. Daily free play for young children while parents enjoy a coffee drink. 913.393.3000

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Animal Tales 10:30, Ernie Miller Nature Center.

A 30-minute program that includes stories, songs and a visit from an animal friend. Today: a visit with Santa. $2. 913.764.7759 Frosty Skate Thru Friday, Silverstein Eye Centers Arena. Ice skating, holiday crafts, Santa Claus and lots of family fun! $5-$8.

816.442.6100 Screenland at the Symphony 7:00, Kauffman Center. Watch Home Alone and hear the score performed live by the Kansas City Symphony.

KCSymphony.org

22 Thursday Open Gym 9:00, Indian Creek Community Church. Kids will have a blast with rideon toys, a bounce house, balls, games and more! 913.829.0712 Christmas Tour 10:00, Bingham-Waggoner Estate. Tour the decorated estate to see insights into the lifestyles of the wealthy 19th-century residents. BWEstate.net

Christmas Time Is Here! 10:30, MCPL (North Oak). Dino O’Dell serves up old Christmas favorites and a cup of good cheer in a rockalong show! Pre-reg at MyMCPL.org.

Family Movie Night 7:00, Lenexa Community Center. Enjoy a family-friendly showing of the movie Elf. Free. Lenexa.com

23 Friday Gingerbread Fun 9:30, Roeland Park Community Center. Make graham cracker gingerbread houses, sip on hot chocolate and sing along to holiday tunes! Pre-reg at 913.826.3160.

Candy Cane Hunt 9:30, Lenexa Community Center. Santa’s elves hid candy canes all over Scouting Park! Bring your little ones and help us find them all. Lenexa.com Santa’s Gingerbread Station 10:00, Crown Center Shops. Explore interactive exhibit and have photo taken with Santa Claus.

CrownCenter.com Story Time 11:00, Reader’s World (Lee’s Summit). Join us for stories, a snack and a craft.

Free, all ages welcome! 816.246.7323

psst... we’re busy whipping up a juicy new issue for

january • birthday party guide • ready for a pet?

• surviving on a single income

Santa’s House 6:00, Downtown Parkville. Come visit Santa at his house, in historic downtown Parkville. ParkvilleMo.org

CHRISTMAS DAY Merry Christmas from KC Parent! Thanks to the Kansas City community for 31 years of readership and support!

The Mystery Train 6:30, Crowne Plaza Hotel.

Join in A Christmas Stalking, an interactive dinner theater event. KCMysteryTrain.com A Christmas Carol 2:00 & 8:00, Spencer Theatre. The KC Rep’s performance returns for its 36th season. A favorite holiday tradition!

KCRep.org

26 Monday Toddle Time 10:00, Bonner Springs Community Center. Kids 9 months through 5 years enjoy playing on the large assortment of toys. $2.

BonnerSprings.org

24 Saturday HANUKKAH BEGINS AT SUNDOWN

Token Mondays 10:00, Cool Crest. For only $15 you can enjoy 100 tokens—no coupon required. CoolCrest.com

Ice Skating 10:00, Crown Center Ice Terrace.

Take a spin on the ice at Kansas City’s only public outdoor skating rink. 816.274.8411 The Nutcracker 1:00, Kauffman Center. The Kansas City Ballet performs a reimagined show with new sets and choreography. KCBallet.org The Three Wise Cats: A Christmas Musical 2:00 & 4:00, Union Station. The cats launch the first annual Christmas Cat Carnival in an alley.

TYA.org

25 Sunday

Meet President Truman at Christmas 10:30, Harry S Truman Library and Museum.

Mr Truman will be on hand to greet visitors.

TrumanLibrary.org Ice Skating Today & tomorrow, Silverstein Eye Centers Arena. Take the family for a postholiday spin on the rink. $5-$8. 816.442.6100

T ES & Tiaras WINTER BALL

DADDY & DAUGHTER DANCE with special guest Olaf fri., feb. 10 & sat., feb. 11, 2017 6-9 pm providence community church 10113 lenexa drive lenexa, ks

register at www.sovgracekc.org/dance price includes jack stack & chick-fil-a dinner plus a professional photo and more.

Proceeds will benefit Forest Avenue Family Shelter.

Register by Jan. 10th and take advantage of the early bird discount: $65 per couple ($15 for each additional daughter).

Registration after Jan. 10th is $75 per couple/ $20 each additional.

event will sell out. tickets must be purchased in advance. kcparent.com december 2016

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27 Tuesday Story Time 10:00, Kansas City Public Library (Central Library). A fun time for all ages to talk, sing, read, write and play. Free. 816.701.3407 Tracks and Sign 10:00, Anita B Gorman Discovery Center. Learn how to identify wildlife based on their tracks, as well as other signs they leave behind. 816.759.7300 Creative Story Time 11:00, Ceramic Café. Hear a story, create a pottery piece and enjoy a simple snack. 913.383.0222 Two-For-One Tuesdays 5:00, Crown Center Ice Terrace. After 5:00, pay one full price admission and receive a second for free!

CrownCenter.com

28 Wednesday Doo-Dad Mike 10:00, Mill Creek Activity Center.

Doo-Dad Mike brings his high-energy rock concert for one show only! $3. Pre-reg at 913.715.2575.

What’s for Dinner? 3:30, Burr Oak Woods.

Watch on Wednesdays and Saturdays as the captive amphibians, fish and turtles enjoy their feast. 816.228.3766

Holiday Lights on Farmstead Lane 5:00, Deanna Rose. A holiday light display showcasing pictures, animations and effects all synchronized to music. DRFarmstead.org

31 Saturday

29 Thursday

Zoo Year’s Eve 9:30, Kansas City Zoo. Watch the “ball drop” to the animals at noon during Zoo Year’s Eve. Enjoy other festive activities.

KansasCityZoo.org

Free Play Cedar Ridge Christian Church. Daily free play for young children while parents enjoy a coffee drink. 913.393.3000 Pompeii: the Exhibition Thru April, Union Station. Exhibit examines lives of the residents of Pompeii before and after the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. UnionStation.org

30 Friday Jumperoo 9:00, Urban Air Trampoline Park.

A special time for those 5 and under to enjoy access to the playground and trampoline attractions. $10/child; parents are free.

800.960.4778 Major League Improv 7:30, Comedy City. A comedy sporting event where everything is based on suggestions from the audience. $9-$13. 816.842.2744

NEW YEAR’S EVE

Mother Nature Reads 10:00, Lakeside Nature Center. Hear a story, learn cool facts about an animal and make a craft.

LakesideNatureCenter.org Noon Year’s Eve Noon, Science City. Welcome 2017 with family activities in a safe, kid-friendly environment. UnionStation.org New Year’s Eve Party Noon, Paradise Park. Ring in 2017 early with the legendary ball drop in the Foam Factory. Early-evening, kid-friendly party. Paradise-Park.com New Year’s Eve Celebration Great Wolf Lodge.

Ring in the New Year with big splashes and big fun. GreatWolf.com Cirque du Soleil–OVO 1:30 & 5:00, Sprint Center. OVO is teeming with life. A show full of non-stop energy. CirqueDuSoleil.com/ovo

OVER THE RAINBOW: TOYS FROM THE LAND OF OZ / January 14, 2017 - August 20, 2017 / Explore the original literary story and its many retellings through playthings, books, and original costumes.

BREAKFAST WITH GLINDA / Free Members-Only Event / January 14, 2017 Join today for a free pancake breakfast from Chris Cakes with the Good Witch. Memberships start at $25.

A collection that speaks for itself.

OPEN DAILY: 10 AM – 4PM, CLOSED TUESDAYS

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816.235.8000

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A Hometown Favorite Since 1967.

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Pizza Shoppe is always a big hit with fans. Many of our 17 KC-area locations have a party room available for team parties, office gatherings, fantasy drafts and other important events. So come in and catch a game – we've always got great seats!

www.pizzashoppe.com *Valid only on Tuesdays at participating Pizza Shoppe locations.

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Facebook.com/PizzaShoppe

@PizzaShoppe

Explore

Kansas City Zoo December 3 & 4 Holiday Wild — Meet Santa Claus at the Zoo December 3 & 4 Santa Dives and Penguin Marches December 10 & 11 Winter Wonderland Lions and Christmas Trees Santa Dives and Penguin Marches December 11 Berlin’s Birthday Party December 17 & 18 Santa Dives and Penguin Marches December 31 Zoo Year’s Eve

Always a New Adventure!

Check online for more Zoomazing experiences!

kansascityzoo.org | 816.595.1234 | Open Daily 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.

The new Birth Place featuring a Level II NICU.

This changes everything.

Change is coming. It happens when you’re expecting a new member of your family. It happens when you choose to bring that little one into the world at Olathe Medical Center’s new Birth Place. Soon, you’ll relax in a suite built for families, with the added security of a new Level II NICU on standby.

Your new baby. Our new Birth Place. Change is good.

Arriving Spring 2017 - Secure webcam-enabled nurseries - Advanced, Level II NICU where you can stay overnight with your baby in the same room - 4-story obstetrics wing featuring luxury suites with queen beds, big enough to share Meet the Doctors Who Deliver at Olathe Medical Center.

Visit olathehealth.org/birthplace.

olathehealth.org/birthplace

The Birth Place