KC Parent magazine December 2018

FREE | December 2018 | KCParent.com | Since 1985

KC’S #1 GUIDE NONTRADITIONAL GIFTS CHRISTMAS FUN, A TO Z CRAFTS & RECIPES AND MORE!

Every year, Santa makes a scheduled appearance at each of our stores and invites children to have their photos taken with him. We hope you’ll join us for this FREE family friendly event!

SUNDAY, DEC. 2ND LIBERTY STORE 10:30AM - 2PM 830 W. Liberty Dr., Liberty, MO 64068 816.781.0001

SATURDAY, DEC. 8TH OVERLAND PARK STORE 10:30AM - 2PM 8424 Farley St., Overland Park, KS 66212 913.642.6503

SUNDAY, DEC 9TH SHAWNEE STORE 10:30AM - 2PM

7036 Nieman Rd., Shawnee, KS 66203 913.631.6121

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Endless Variety, Matchless Talent!

2018-19 Season on Sale Now

Dec. 8

Two Shows!

Under the Streetlamp Hip to the Holidays!

These “Jersey Boys” perform a joyous collection of your favorite holiday tunes plus songs from the American Radio Songbook.

Feb. 2

An Evening with Lisa Loeb Hear Loeb perform her hit single, “Stay (I Missed You),” from the film Reality Bites, along with “Do You Sleep,” “I Do” and many more.

Feb. 16 & 17 L.A. Theatre Works (radio theatre)

A diverse cast of six extraordinary women who, through laughter or tragedy, prove the strength of friendship.

Over 30 performances! Build a season package of five shows (or more) and save 10%.

jccc.edu/CarlsenCenter | 913-469-4445 NO ONLINE FEES | FREE PARKING | WINE & BEER AVAILABLE

A HIGH TEMPERATURE

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Reserve Urgent Care Online With our Save My Spot feature, it’s convenient to get the care your child needs.

And with pediatric specialists at all three Urgent Care locations, no one is better equipped to get your kid back to better. Download the Children’s Mercy app today.

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DECEMBER 2018

IN EVERY ISSUE 10 Date Night 12 Media Mix 20 Nutrition Nuggets 35 Craft Corner

18-PAGE HOLIDAY GUIDE, PGS. 34-51

36 Insta-Worthy 38 Mojo for Moms 39 Word from Dad

FEATURES

SPECIAL SECTIONS 22 Party Guide 34 Holiday Guide 52 Calendar of Events

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48

Special Needs Sibs

Healthy Kids

Christmas A to Z

Benefits and challenges with a special needs sibling

Eight tips to help children build a healthy lifestyle

An ABC list of Christmas fun all over KC Our cover features Kaylee from Leawood. Cover and select interior photos by BondurantStudios.com.

FREE | December 2018 | KCParent.com | Since 1985

ON THE COVER

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kcparent.com december 2018

Whimsical Winter Nutrient

20

Holiday Guide

34

DIY Snow Globes

35

Nontraditional Gifts

44

NONTRADITIONAL GIFTS

Christmas Fun, A to Z

48

AND MORE!

KC’S #1 GUIDE CHRISTMAS FUN, A TO Z CRAFTS & RECIPES

DISCOVER WONDER FIND THE GIFTS YOU’RE LOOKING FOR ALL IN ONE PLACE!

EDITOR’SLETTER DECEMBER 2018

Merry Christmas, Kansas City!

Enter to win a to see the

showing at the

Kauffman Center January 15-20 Details at 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 Debbie Clark Debbie@KCParent.com Darrell Dean Darrell@KCParent.com Digital 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

LOCAL CONTENT

Bill Bartlett, (Belton), Hannah Berry (Kansas City), Wendy Connelly (Overland Park), Judy Goppert (Lee’s Summit), Lauren Greenlee (Olathe), Alexandra Hombs (Riverside), Amy Hundley (Olathe), Megan Kapple (Kansas City), Gina Klein (Kansas City), Kristina Light (Kansas City), Regan Lyons (St. Joseph), Sarah Lyons (Olathe), Christa Melnyk Hines (Olathe)

Mailing Address 11936 W. 119th #335, Overland Park, KS 66213 913.782.3238 phone • 913.681.5139 fax OUR PRODUCTS FREE | December 2018 | KCParent.com | Since 1985

kansas city’s #1 travel guide since 2010

fall/winter 2018-19

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kcgoingplaces.com

OCTOBER- DECEMBER 2018 | KCPARENT.COM

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evening fun for all ages

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mistakes parents of toddlers make

GUIDE

STROLLER WORTHY

NONTRADITIONAL GIFTS CHRISTMAS FUN, A TO Z CRAFTS & RECIPES AND MORE!

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A

few months back, I asked my daughter to empty out her closet, drawers, storage bins, hampers, etc., etc. Together we went through every item in her room and kept those she would still use or wear and then donated the rest. After all was said and done, we had several large garbage bags filled to the brim with donation items.

The volume gave me pause, and over and over I thought, “We have too much stuff!” Then because I like to plan ahead, I started thinking about the holidays and what I could give instead of more stuff. With that for inspiration, in this issue you’ll find an article on non-toy gifts, along with gift ideas that not only don’t crowd your home but also share the treasure of time spent together creating memories.

Because in the end, none of it is going with you, so stockpile memories in your heart instead of stuff in your house. In addition to gift ideas, you’ll find much more to help you celebrate the holidays in your home in our Christmas Guide, starting on pg. 34.

Do you write thank you notes? Do your kids? The thoughtful art of writing and sending thank you notes seems in danger of becoming extinct, but I, for one, am in favor of resurrecting it! And what better time than the holidays to send out thank you notes! When my girls were younger, I used writing thank you notes as a way to not only teach them to be gracious recipients, but also work on things like penmanship and spelling. And addressing the envelope is great practice for a life skill all kids need. Check out Judy Goppert’s article in favor of thank you notes on pg. 16.

Circulation verified by:

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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KCPARENTWEBSITE

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

SEARCH KCPARENT.COM FOR MORE AFFORDABLE HOLIDAY FUN IDEAS: 1. Ultimate KC Christmas Guide 2. Free & Cheap Indoor Fun 3. Best Hot Cocoa in Kansas City

4. KC Going Places Guide 5. Calendar of Events 6. Christmas Shows and Pageants

SPOTLIGHT

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.

7. Great Giveaways 8. Santa Sightings

LABOR & DELIVERY GUIDE Choosing the best hospital for the arrival of your baby is an important decision. Use the KCParent.com Labor & Delivery Hospital Guide to find the perfect location for you and your child.

9. Best of December 10. Money-Saving Coupons

4 MORE WAYS TO STAY CONNECTED

Like us on Facebook facebook.com/KansasCityParent Repin us on Pinterest // Follow us on Twitter @KCParent // Subscribe to our FREE e-newsletter at KCParent.com

kcparent.com december 2018

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SHOWTIME ADVENTURE

DATENIGHT

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It’s showtime! For a date night this month, why not try some live entertainment?

Comedy Improv comedy always makes a fun night out, so my husband and I checked out an all-ages, Saturday evening show at Kick Comedy Theater. The talent was good, as were the sketches. We had seen most of the games before, but they did a couple that we hadn’t.

Our favorite was the acronym game, in which audience members supplied several acronyms (like FBI and LOL) that the actors later had to use in a scene. The catch was that they had to make up different meanings for the acronyms, like lions of Liverpool! For your enjoyment during the show, Kick Comedy sells alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks. The theater is also connected to the Westport Coffee House and Green Room, so food and other drinks are easily accessible. We highly recommend Kick Comedy for a family outing, as it is extremely budget-friendly and the show is only about an hour long. On the other hand, for a date night, we recommend Comedy City, which has a longer show that is also all-ages friendly but is less kid-oriented.

Theater If comedy isn’t your thing, maybe an outing to the Folly Theater is more up your alley. On a recent Saturday evening, we enjoyed a free Discovery Concert featuring Alyson Cambridge, soprano. The first act was filled with classical arias (opera) sung in Russian, Italian, French and Spanish. The second act showcased musical theater.

Over the past four years, we have been to at least five of these Discovery Concerts featuring pianists, violinists, soloists and more, and all have been excellent! This evening was no exception; the talent was superb. Through the Harriman Jewel Series, the Folly offers around four free shows each year. To attend, you must get free tickets online. If you are looking for a little bit of culture, check it out!

Music Or maybe….you’d like to get in touch with your Kansas City roots. As most locals know, jazz is one of the things for which Kansas City is known. My husband and I recently enjoyed a free Thursday night show at the historic Blue Room at the American Jazz Museum. Featured that evening was the Kansas City Latin Jazz Orchestra, the region’s premier salsa and Latin jazz ensemble. This multigenerational ensemble plays regularly at the Blue Room and includes piano, bass guitar, tambourine, various drums, trombones, a trumpet and a saxophone. Their music was soothing, and often while listening, I felt as if I’d been transported to Havana. The Blue Room provides a small, intimate setting and a speakeasy-ish vibe, a full bar backlit in blue lights and a come-as-you-wish dress code. If you stay late enough, you will find patrons hitting the floor to try out their salsa skills.

Hannah Berry is a freelance writer who lives with her husband in Kansas City. They enjoy regular date nights and love trying new restaurants and activities.

Wishing you tidings of great health…

Concussion from reindeer uprising

Respiratory infection from chimney soot inhalation

Food poisoning from eating last year’s Fruitcake

Robotic hip replacement after too much rockin’ around the tree.

Broken ankle from slipping on sugar plums

We wish you a happy and healthy holiday season. However, if festivities turn from joyful to painful, we’re ready to fix you up and send you on your merry way. To find your closest ER and see average wait times, text “ER” to 32222 or visit KCfastER.com.

* 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.

53929 CQ

MEDIAMIX

cozy up with a good book!

wrap up a new title for a perfect holiday surprise

By McGeath Freeman

Imagine!

By Raul Colon Best for: Ages 4-8

Not So Normal Norbert

By James Patterson and Joey Green Illustrated by Hatem Aly Best for: Ages 8-14

Clem Hetherington and the Ironwood Race

By Jen Breach Illustrated by Douglas Holgate Best for: Ages 10-14

Talk about taking a picture walk!

Colon puts the message of the power of art in the hands of children all over and encourages them to use their imaginations. No words. That’s right— Colon uses no words to inspire.

When a boy enters the Museum of Modern Art in New York, he is awed by Picasso’s Three Musicians and Matisse’s Icarus. As he stands slack-jawed in the museum, the figures burst from the canvas and take the boy on a magical tour of city landmarks. When the boy returns home that night, the art stays with him in his mind, inspiring him to create his own masterpieces. Children will love taking an adventure with the art.

What’s good: Inspiring art for all ages.

This futuristic tale is set in a world where conformity is the law of the land.

Middle school students wear plain gray jumpsuits and say a daily pledge of loyalty to the Loving Leader. Those who do not conform, those deemed different by the “truth police,” are sent to other planets to live in camps for dangerous people. Seem Orwellian? In concept, this story is a bit Orwellian, but it incorporates humor, quirky characters and wisecracks to keep it light and fastpaced.

What happens when you combine Young Indiana Jones with Speed Racer and the Star Wars universe? You get a young female archaeologist with an android brother in a deadly race across the desert surrounded by space aliens. The adventure is fast-paced and entertaining, and the illustrations and narrative keep readers glued to each frame. This is a good addition to the growing graphic novel library for teens and preteens.

What’s good: Sure to interest even

What’s good: This is likely Norbert’s first adventure in an expected series.

reluctant readers.

What’s bad: Plays into the stereotype

of why aliens are on what appears to be Earth.

of the disgruntled teen.

What’s bad: Not enough explanation

What’s bad: Would love to see this story branch out beyond New York.

Books make great gifts! For more titles that appeal to all ages, head to KCParent.com!

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the lost art of the thank you note

he practice of writing personal thank you notes teaches invaluable lessons to children. Not only does it make them consider a gift they received and the person who gave it, but it also shows them they can pick out a pretty card or paper and actually use a pen or pencil to put their thoughts on paper. Instead of texting.

And we all know how good it feels to see that colorful envelope in our mailbox, cheering up the piles of bills and junk mail.

Try sending your own child a thank you note in the mail to give him the chance to feel that special love and attention—then he will understand how happy Grandma will feel when she opens a special envelope she gets out of her mailbox! Plus, sending the note lets her know your child actually received her gift.

Laurie Wilson, retired Reading Recovery teacher, believes in the value of personal correspondence—especially thank you notes. “It’s definitely not a priority these days with social media and texting available,” she says. “All children must be taught to be

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polite, to express their gratitude in letter form and to address an envelope. Writing their thoughts down on paper takes patience and practice. Children who write make good readers. Children who read make good writers. Writing thank you notes enhances many skills!”

Another tip is to write the notes as soon as possible—but don’t be embarrassed by a note sent a bit late. Gratitude is always appropriate. Take a bit of time to discuss with your child what makes the gift special.

For example, is it a book he or she loved reading? An art kit she has made projects with? A toy he can’t stop playing with? Or tell the giver how much fun it was shopping with friends to find the perfect sweater with the gift card. Then have your youngster make the natural progression toward writing a sweet note: “Grandma, you are so sweet to have sent me my favorite book, and I can’t wait to read it again!”

Have your child read the note out loud to hear how the written words will sound to the recipient. Impress upon your youngster

how we should strive to express gratitude to people who bring goodness into our world. To children, receiving gifts equates to goodness in their world.

To stimulate your child’s interest in the project, keep fun, age-appropriate materials on hand, such as colorful note paper, crayons, markers, pencils, pens, stickers and stamps. Visit the post office (or USPS. gov) and select fun, themed stamps for your thank you notes.

Writing these special notes actually helps teach children good manners. Likely we all learned when we were young that writing letters of thanks after receiving presents was a polite measure, and we want our own children to do the same. The act of physically writing the actual thank you note makes them think about the thoughtfulness and care that go into buying and wrapping the toys and gifts they receive. This process adds a positive emotional dimension to receiving presents.

As a matter of fact, research actually shows a connection between expressing feelings in written form and experiencing well-being. Children who grow accustomed to writing about what is on their minds— whether in thank you notes or a journal— can reduce stress. If they continue to write for enjoyment or gratitude, they’ll experience reduced anxiety later in life.

Putting thanks on paper rather than using another method benefits children many ways, so don’t let them to miss this life lesson. With a little creativity and togetherness, the learning—and thanking— will be sweet fun.

One more tip: Why not jot down the thank you before playing with the toy or cashing the check? That way, the true meaning of the gift will have full effect!

Judy Goppert lives in Lee’s Summit. She enjoys drawing on her personal experiences to write about the nuances of everything wonderful about life.

Sources: TheArtOfSimple.net, EmilyPost.com, AmyCarney.com, ChildDevelopmentInfo.com

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15

challenges & benefits OF HAVING A SIBLING WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

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h

aving a sibling with special needs is a unique experience, both challenging and beneficial.

Although children undoubtedly love their special needs siblings, complicated feelings can arise, and coping with them is a big job. Love, appreciation and compassion can mix up with jealousy, worry, resentment, fear, responsibility and anger. Parents who are in tune to their children’s feelings can help them work through the negative emotions and turn those challenges into benefits.

CHALLENGE: Others’ insensitivity Unfortunately, kids with special needs often find themselves the target of teasing. Kids—or even adults—who don’t understand other people’s differences may make insensitive comments, ask inappropriate questions or just make fun of someone who is different from them.

Siblings of special needs kids may feel the need to constantly stand up for their sibling, explain their situation to others or may be the brunt of teasing themselves. “One of the biggest challenges in growing up with my sister was watching her get laughed at,” says Justin Lyons, brother of Kara, who has cerebral palsy. Parents can help their kids work through this challenge by equipping them with the right answers for those awkward questions and teaching them how to handle bullying in an appropriate way.

BENEFIT: Development of

dependability, loyalty and compassion

After years of watching someone they love get teased, siblings of special needs kids naturally develop a strong sense of loyalty to those they care about, as well as a strong compassion toward others. Even though watching Kara get teased was hard for Lyons, he says, “I think it made me less likely to laugh at or tease other people.”

Kids who grow up in a home with a special needs sibling typically become dependable, compassionate and loyal adults.

CHALLENGE: Jealousy Parents do their best to treat their children fairly and spend equal amounts of time caring for each one. But when a member of the family has developmental delays or significant medical needs, that balance can become extremely difficult

to achieve, and jealousy often develops.

Kids may feel they get less attention or that their parents spend more time caring for the sibling. Guilt over these feelings often strikes these children, causing them to be more upset and resentful. As a parent, try to be understanding and patient about your child’s jealous feelings. Talking it through and having someone listen and take him seriously will help your child feel loved and included. If possible and appropriate, welcome your child to join you in caring for the sibling, but don’t push the issue.

BENEFIT: Self-control and thoughtfulness

First, remember that sibling rivalry and feelings of jealousy are normal in any sibling relationship. As your child learns to wait for her parent to be free to help her, she will learn patience and self-control. She also will learn to put others’ needs before her own.

Being a sibling of a special needs person is a unique and sometimes challenging experience, but most people will tell you they have benefitted from it.

CHALLENGE: Worry and fear When children are around a sibling with serious medical challenges, lowered immunity or special needs, they may experience worry or fear about their sibling’s health. Children may not be able to express those feelings the same way an adult can.

They may act out, become overly emotional or appear aloof to what is going on around them. Parents can help kids by being honest about health concerns in an age-appropriate way. By including your children in this discussion, you can reduce their fear of the unknown and reassure them as well.

BENEFIT: Compassion and empathy for others

Kids exposed to someone with medical and developmental challenges naturally become more compassionate and empathetic to others with struggles.

“I attribute my sense of understanding and compassion to growing up with my sister,” says Michelle Hupp, sister to Felicia, an adult with Down syndrome.

CHALLENGE: Complicated and mixed feelings

Just as each person has individuality, kids experience a variety of feelings related to their sibling with special needs. Some kids may feel pressure to live up to their parents’ expectations for themselves— and for the sibling who may never reach certain milestones. Kids also may feel resentment, anger, frustration or like they are missing out on activities or experiences because their sibling’s care puts restrictions on certain activities. “Siblings often feel guilty about any negative feeling such as jealousy,” says Hupp. “The rewards more than outweigh the negatives, but sometimes the negatives are hard to talk about.” None of these feelings are fun to discuss and often grow guilt, causing children to feel even more resentment toward the sibling. Some of these feelings may be difficult to overcome, and parents may not know exactly what their child is feeling or how to deal with him. If you think negative feelings are becoming a problem, consider seeking professional help to support your child’s development in a healthy way and encourage an appropriate relationship between all of your children.

BENEFIT: A variety of positive characteristics

These emotional challenges are a reality, but kids also develop a wide variety of wonderful characteristics from their experience: kindness, patience, compassion, acceptance of differences, helpfulness and empathy. All of these qualities are wonderful and will serve children well as they contribute to society.

Being a sibling of a special needs person is a unique and sometimes challenging experience, but most people will tell you they have benefitted from it. Parents can take heart as they think of the long-term benefits that will enrich their children and help them learn to shape their challenges into successes.

Sarah Lyons is a freelance writer that lives in Olathe with her family. kcparent.com december 2018

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EIGHT SIMPLE RULES for raising a healthy kid

We all do our best to raise our kids to be as healthy as possible.

Follow these simple tips to help promote a healthy lifestyle for your children.

1 Enforce handwashing

4 Practice car seat safety

2 Get plenty of exercise

5 Cultivate emotional health

Proper handwashing can keep your children from getting sick and spreading germs to others. Show your kids how to wash their hands in a fun and effective way. Teach them what germs are, how they spread and why washing hands is so important.

To make the hygiene chore fun and effective, encourage tots to wash their hands while singing a nursery rhyme such as “The Itsy Bitsy Spider.” As soon as the song is over, they will know they washed their hands long enough to kill all of the germs.

Guidelines from the Department of Health and Human Services say that children and adolescents ages 6 and older need at least an hour a day of physical activity. Be a role model to your child by exercising regularly as a family. Exercise doesn’t have to be boring. Be creative and think of activities the entire family can enjoy, such as nature walks, bike rides, a game of tag in the backyard or a dance party in the living room.

Cutting back on screen time also keeps your kids more active.

3 Teach good oral hygiene

Children should brush their teeth with toothpaste that contains fluoride at least twice a day as soon as they have teeth. Start the habit early by letting your child brush his teeth all by himself. Once he has brushed, you can take the toothbrush and finish brushing for him. Many fun toothbrushes are on the market that make brushing more fun. Try out one with a light-up timer on it or with a favorite cartoon character—and let your child choose her favorite flavor of toothpaste. The more excited kids are to brush their teeth, the better their dental habits will be.

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kcparent.com december 2018

According to Safe Kids Worldwide, correctly used child safety seats can reduce the risk of death by as much as 71 percent. However, three out of four car seats are not used or installed correctly. Safe Kids Metro Kansas City is a coalition that implements evidence-based programs—including car seat checkups and safety workshops—to help prevent childhood injuries. For a list of child passenger safety seat fitting and installations in the Kansas City area, visit MCHC.net/programs/safe-kids-metro-kansas-city.

Your children’s emotional health is just as important as their physical health. Help your kids cope with their emotions by teaching them healthy social skills, allowing them to express their feelings and demonstrating positive emotional reactions. Emotionally healthy kids lead to physically healthy kids.

6 School them in sun protection

Protect your kids from the sun’s harmful rays with sunscreen. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends that all kids wear sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, regardless of their skin tone.

Make sure the sunscreen offers UVA and UVB protection. If your kids are near water, double check the sunscreen is water resistant—and remind kids to take a break to reapply as well. You also can cover your children’s skin with light layers and hats when the sun is at its brightest and give them sunglasses to protect their eyes.

7 Teach them to eat their veggies

One of the toughest habits to teach our children is to eat their vegetables. In a world full of sweet treats, vegetables tend to be the last thing our kids choose. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 93 percent of kids don’t eat enough vegetables. Thankfully, you can employ a few tricks to make sure your kids get the optimum amount of veggies in their diet. Start off by feeding them healthy servings of vegetables every day from a young age. Early exposure means kids will be less likely to balk at them later in life. If your kids are already turned off by vegetables, sneak them into foods they like. You can puree them into sauces, mix them into your recipes, blend kale into their smoothies or top their less healthy foods, like pizzas, with veggies.

8 Set a regular bedtime

Catching enough zzz’s each night can benefit your children’s memory, behavior, attention span and emotional state. Follow a calming routine before bed each night, like a warm bath or reading a story, to help prepare your kids for sleep.

Children require different amounts of sleep depending on their ages. Do your research to find the optimal amount of sleep your child needs per night and base your bedtime on that. Also try to put your youngsters to sleep at the same consistent time each evening. A routine bedtime leads to healthy sleep patterns that will follow your kids into adulthood.

Regan Lyons is a freelance writer who lives in St. Joseph, MO, with her husband and 4-year-old daughter.

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

Have a child that doesn’t like veggies?

Log onto KCParent.com for tips on getting kids to eat 5 veggies a day (really!).

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Walk in seven days a week or make an online reservation at CentraCareKC.com.

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NUTRITIONNUGGETS

whimisical winter nutrient

VITAMIN D

Welcome to the winter wonderland of 2018, filled with shiver-inducing cold air and plenty of shimmery fresh snow! With this cold season upon KC, parents need to keep an eye on a certain nutrient need. To keep kiddos healthy, look on the sunny side of the whimsical winter nutrient, vitamin D!

Importance of Vitamin D

Sources

Lunch:

Vitamin D, commonly referred to as the “sunshine vitamin,” is made naturally from adequate exposure to sunlight and also from a select number of foods.

Because the sun may not always be shining in wintertime, proper nutrition ensures your family gets enough of this crucial nutrient.

Natural sources: Milk, egg yolks, cheese, mushrooms, salmon, sardines, tuna, trout, herring, beef liver and butter.

3 oz. tuna fish canned in water* = 154 IUs 1 slice Swiss cheese = 6 IUs

Health Benefits Bone Health: When teaming up with calcium and phosphorus, vitamin D helps make your kiddo’s bones and teeth stronger.

Absorption: Vitamin D plays a significant role helping both calcium and phosphorus absorb properly. Without vitamin D’s helping hand, these two minerals could not function.

Maintenance: This vitamin is essential for children’s normal growth and development. Overall gene metabolism also relies on it.

Fortified sources: Soy, almond, rice, oats, goat’s milk, orange juice, breakfast cereal, yogurt and margarine.

*Serve on whole wheat bread spread with mustard and mayo, and topped with lettuce and tomato.

Snack:

Daily Requirements

6 oz. yogurt = 80 IUs

Children and teens require 600 International Units (IUs) per day.

Dinner:

Sample Daily Menu to Pack in the Whimsical Vitamin D *Strive to follow this delicious, vitamin D-rich daily meal plan, or opt for your kiddo to simply pick a few items to include.

Salmon fillet = 400 IUs *Grill and spice the fillet with lemon and pepper and serve with steamed whole grain rice and veggies.

Nighttime Snack: 1 c. warm milk = 100 IUs

Breakfast:

Or

1 c. orange juice = 100 IUs 1 c. whole wheat, ready-to-eat cereal with 8 oz. milk = 150 IUs 2 eggs (scrambled, poached or hardboiled) = 50 IUs

3 oz. cheddar cheese with whole grain crackers = 3 IUs

Amy Hundley is a registered dietitian nutritionist, licensed in both Kansas and Missouri, and a published freelance nutrition writer. She currently practices as a clinical RD and has been a resident of Olathe since early childhood.

Amy can be contacted at amyhundley05@gmail.com.

Sources: EatRight.org, Academy of Nutrition & Dietetics, Institute of Medicine, USDA

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berry & nola yogi bark Experiment with this winning recipe or just take it from Arthur, Lee’s Summit resident and dad of four boys: “My children seriously crave this snack all day and every day. Plus, it’s nice knowing that they’re getting in a nutrient-dense winning treat.”

Ingredients 24-oz. container of Greek yogurt (vanilla or plain) 2 t. honey 1 c. berries, sliced 1 c. granola

Instructions In a small bowl (or even in the yogurt container), mix together honey and yogurt. Spread the mixture into the bottom of a 9x13 pan that has been covered in aluminum foil. Sprinkle the strawberries and granola over the top of the yogurt, slightly pressing it into the yogurt with your hands.

Freeze for about one hour, or until completely frozen. Remove from freezer and cut into about 12 slices. Serve immediately. *Keep in freezer in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 30 days.

easy cheesy tuna melt bites Loaded with vitamin D from the tuna, cheese and egg yolks, these bites are ideal to bring in school lunches or for fast after-school snacks.

Ingredients 1 5-oz. tuna can (packed in water, drained well) 3/4 c. whole milk 3 large eggs plus 1 egg yolk 2/3 c. grated parmesan cheese 1/4 t. salt 1/4 t. onion powder 2/3 c. sharp cheddar cheese

Instructions Preheat oven to 350°F. Coat two mini muffin tins with nonstick spray or fill mini cupcake liners coated with nonstick spray. Whisk together the tuna, milk, eggs, parmesan cheese, salt and onion powder in a large bowl. Fill muffin tins 3/4 full with mixture and top with sharp cheddar cheese. Bake for 25 minutes or until edges are golden brown. Remove from oven and cool for 5 minutes.

These scrumptious healthy bites can be enjoyed hot, warm or cold. I happily suggest always having these on hand.

kcparent.com december 2018

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theme – For whom is the party? What’s the occasion? Whom are you inviting? “I decide my theme based on two things: what time of year it is and what that person is interested in,” says Jennifer Moore, Olathe.

If your child is old enough, let him decide what type of party he would like to have.

For younger children, observe their interests and hobbies, favorite TV shows and books.

Check out Pinterest and other blogs for inspiration.

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guest list – Incorporating your theme will begin when you send out your invitations.

It’s giving your guests a sneak peak at what’s to come at the celebration. You can create your own invites that correlate with

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local dollar and thrift stores and stop by crafting stores to create your one-of-a-kind décor. Etsy.com is also a wonderful resource for printable party packages that are already themed and ready to print.

menu and cake – Plan a flexible menu that everyone will enjoy and that goes along with the theme. “We had a barnyard-themed party for our son’s first birthday, and we served country ham, corn-on-the-cob, potato salad, homemade

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pickles and cornbread,” says Suzanna Ruth, Prairie Village. Keep in mind whether any of your guests have allergies or are diabetic; offering an alternative option for them is considerate. Cakes and cupcakes can be custom made to fit your theme at any bakery in town—just make sure you bring in a picture of your vision. If you plan to do your own baking, there are many websites that offer ideas and tutorials.

games – Keep the party alive with entertainment. Rent a clown or set up a ring or beanbag toss for a carnival theme party.

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Set up craft tables and other activities so there is something to do for all ages.

goody bags – Every child should leave with a little something to show your appreciation for their attending. Whether it be a sand bucket and shovel from your under the sea party or a potted tomato plant from your barnyard bash, make sure the goody is

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elementary school blues:

how to keep kids motivated the entire school year

P

acking lunches, doing nightly homework, studying for spelling tests and scrambling during the morning rush lose their luster as weeks roll on.

The thrill of a new school year has dulled, and children start to drag their feet a little more on school mornings. How do you keep kids motivated during the long winter months?

Set goals Let your children know you have high expectations for them throughout the year, not just first semester. Work with your children to set goals for success and reward them for meeting their goals. Some kids need an academic goal, while others need behavior goals, such as getting no tardies for the quarter or turning in all assignments on time. Communicate with your child’s teacher to come up with some beneficial goals for your child. Rewards could include taking a special family outing, going out for ice cream, picking out a special toy or earning extra screen time.

Stay positive Parents who are tired of packing lunches and reminding children to put their shoes on for the fifth time in one morning can

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find it hard to stay positive. However, a positive attitude can go a long way for both parents and kids. Focus on the excitement of learning, seeing friends and upcoming events to encourage your child that school is still as fun as it was back in August. Your positive attitude will become contagious, and your child will start to get excited about school again too.

Show an interest Parents’ interest can have a huge impact on their child’s excitement about school.

When your child returns home from school, ask him about his day, his friends, and the highs and lows of the day. Listen attentively and ask questions. When homework time rolls around, be available to help and answer questions. When parents are excited and interested in the goings-on at school, kids will be too.

Get involved Kids who are involved in school activities tend to be more excited about school.

Encourage your children to join clubs and after-school activities where they will be around school friends. Parents also can get involved at the school to break up the

mid-year blues. When kids see their parents working at the school, they know you value their time there. Check with your school to see what volunteer opportunities are available.

Continue healthy habits Encourage your child to get a good night’s rest, eat a healthy breakfast and focus on good study habits. An after-school routine to complete homework and chores will help your child fall back into the school schedule after winter break. Be sure to allow plenty of free time as well. Host a playdate, have a movie night, go to the park if weather allows and schedule time for fun and relaxation so kids don’t get too bored with their routine.

If the mid-year blues are still getting to your child, don’t hesitate to contact your child’s teacher to discuss a plan for getting back on track. Soon enough, the days will begin to get longer, the temperatures warmer and school will be out for summer once again.

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27

HOMESAFEHOME

a

T

preventing accidents and keeping kids safer

oday’s children may be the most supervised generation yet, with less time away from a caregiver’s gaze than kids enjoyed a few decades ago. But all this supervision hasn’t changed a simple fact: Kids are accident-prone. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, accidental falls and injuries are still the leading cause of death for children under 14, and most accidents occur in or around a child’s home. “While we can’t eliminate every possibility, our best defense is to make our homes as safe as possible,” says childproofing expert Kenny Lynerd, owner of Child Safe Home, Inc., in Cary, NC. Here’s how to keep kids safer, from birth through the teen years.

EARLY YEARS 0-5 Splash guard Mention babyproofing, and most new parents think of baby gates and cabinet latches. Although these items are important—baby gates should be screw-mounted at the top and bottom of all staircases—they don’t address all household hazards. “Baby gates and cabinet latches are great ways to keep your babies and young children away from dangerous areas and items in your home. However, there are many other dangers in the home that you might not think of as a new parent,” says Annie Trostel, health education specialist in the Center for Childhood Injury Prevention at Texas Children’s Hospital.

For instance, the bathroom brims with potential safety hazards, from cleaning and grooming products to the water in the toilet. Use doorknob covers to keep toddlers out of the bathroom and move hazardous products like rubbing alcohol, nail polish and polish remover, cleaning products, bath salts and perfumes into an upper cabinet, preferably one secured with a latch. Use toilet locks to keep the toilet lid closed—the basin of cool water is tempting, but top-heavy tots can tip into the bowl and drown in just a few inches of water, says Trostel.

ELEMENTARY YEARS 6-12 Window wellness Childhood safety hazards don’t disappear once kids outgrow baby gates. Falls from second- or third-story windows send thousands of kids to the hospital each year, and parents may not think about

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securing windows when kids are past toddlerhood. Never assume a window screen will prevent a fall, says StopAt4, a child window fall prevention organization. Their guideline for window safety is easy to remember: Kids shouldn’t be able to open windows more than 4 inches. This means installing window stops on all windows within a child’s reach, or using child-safe window guards for windows you may want to open more than 4 inches.

If you’re building a home or installing new windows, ask about built-in limiting devices to keep windows from opening wider than 4 inches. Teach children never to sit or play on windowsills, no matter how inviting they seem, and move all furniture kids can climb away from windows, says Kenny Lynerd of Child Safe Home Inc.

TEEN YEARS 13-18 First aid brigade Teens face less danger from household accidents than their younger counterparts, but caregivers shouldn’t let safety slide.

Instead, make teens safety stakeholders by enlisting their help in assembling and maintaining one or several family first aid kits— teens will be better able to find and use a first aid kit they helped create. First, pick an easy-to-access spot for your kit, one that will be simple to point out to babysitters and visiting relatives. Choose a durable, cleanable container—a small fishing tackle box or hardsided makeup kit works well.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, accidental falls and injuries are still the leading cause of death for children under 14, and most accidents occur in or around a child’s home.

When Baby Starts to Walk

Visit RedCross.org’s list of recommended items for a family-size first aid kit, Trostel says, and think beyond bandages. She advises including less obvious items like aspirin, a space blanket, tweezers and scissors. Remember to stash an extra first aid kit in the car and with camping gear; a mini kit can come along on daytrips and hikes. And don’t forget to complete the kit by adding needed medications for family members and the numbers of emergency contacts. Take the first aid knowledge further by enrolling your teen in a first aid and CPR course at a local hospital, then take comfort in the knowledge your not-so-little kid is a lot safer, both inside and outside the home.

Malia Jacobson is a nationally published health and parenting journalist and mom.

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

W

One of the biggest worries parents have when Baby takes his first steps is how to keep him safe. Below are some steps to consider when you have a new walker in the home.

Make sure you do not have open staircases. With a little walker traveling around your home, you don’t want to worry about a fall down the stairs. Baby gates can be very helpful in covering access to staircases!

Cover your outlets. Little fingers often find their way into tiny openings, and wall outlets are no exception! Cover your wall outlets with wall covers to prevent any dangerous experiments with electricity.

Be cautious of furniture. Make sure heavy furniture is secured to the wall and keep chairs or other pieces of furniture that easily topple out of Baby’s reach.

Move dangerous products up high or lock your cabinets.

Stories in the news about a baby’s accidentally ingesting dishwasher pods or laundry detergent are frightening. Move all products that are not safe for Baby to a higher shelf or install baby-proof latches to keep little hands from cabinet doors.

Watch out for hazards. Take the time to explore your home and check for hazards with Baby in mind. Some families cover sharp table edges and some put pads on brick fireplace hearths. The level and extent to which you baby-proof your home is entirely up to you and depends on your environment.

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29

lucky “Send some of that luck my way!”

Luck is the work and passion we put into something that eventually pay off.

We earn the end reward.

h

ow many times have you heard someone say this to you or to someone else? Or, better yet, “That’s not fair!” (especially from a child).

What many don’t realize is that luck is not as simple as stepping outside the door in the morning and being handed something amazing. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. Luck is the work and passion we put into something that eventually pay off.

We earn the end reward. Understanding this, however, is hard for children. It’s not fair if someone else is the “lucky one” and not them. They don’t understand that luck is merely a word for earned.

Sure, people go searching for fourleaf clovers, and some even find them.

But finding one is still work. They put effort into their search, just as someone who wins a raffle prize puts effort into purchasing the raffle tickets to try to win! Real luck means creating your own lucky situations and having a positive mindset. But how do we teach this to our children?

Communication is key for us parents.

By communicating the consistent message to our children that effort results in a positive outcome, we hope our children will develop a good work ethic and the discipline to achieve their goals.

If we consistently model the following behaviors for our children, they will learn how to make their own luck in life.

For tips on teaching children a strong work ethic, head to KCParent.com.

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Keep an open mind. More ways than one are available to accomplish something.

If you only focus on one way of doing something, you may miss out on other chances to reach the luck you desire. Teach children to try different tactics to see what outcomes they get. They may discover their initial idea wasn’t such a great one after all.

Expect good things to happen!

People who expect good things to happen generally attract good things. What you put out into the universe, you get back. Not always instantly, and not every time, but over time you realize that when you expect good things to happen, they almost always do. This is a great lesson of positivity for kids.

kids Encourage creativity and imagination. When children are given opportunities to increase their natural creativity and imagination, they’re more likely to see opportunities in a variety of different life experiences. What’s more, they’re better able to solve problems and seek unique solutions to issues they may experience.

Be willing to take risks. The lucky breaks other people have are almost always the result of their bravery in taking risks—so they really aren’t luck at all.

They’re the payoff for courageous action.

Whether it’s taking up a new hobby, learning to bake something new, going back to school to finish a degree or starting a new job, demonstrate that you’re willing to take risks to reach a goal. The more children see their parents take risks, the more comfortable they become with life’s uncertainties.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Show your children that when they reach out to other people for help, they benefit from the advice, experience and insight of others. Just by asking, they may gain valuable feedback and even land new opportunities!

Use affirmations daily. As American businessman and philanthropist W. Clement Stone once said, “Whatever the mind of man can conceive and believe, it can achieve.” Affirmations are positive ways of planting the seeds of success in our subconscious. They are always positive, in the first person and in the present tense. For instance, “I am lucky. I am successful. I am a winner.” You can write them out or repeat them to yourself several times a day. This is a wonderful way to teach children to think positively about themselves and to remind themselves that they are successful.

Never fear failure. You never know something won’t work until you try it. And although seeing your children struggle with something and not succeed is hard, the adversity is important in both building their resilience and giving them confidence to try new solutions to problems. As a parent, model this in your own life. Show them something on which you’ve tried and failed, but then reworked and proceeded to succeed. This teaches them that having high expectations will motivate them to persist.

Failure is merely an invitation to keep going.

Practice positive visualization.

Visualization is a wonderful technique where you picture yourself achieving a goal.

What a great tool to teach your children, too, because practicing visualization helps them work out the steps to reach their own goals. For instance, tell your children to think about winning a contest they would like to enter. Have them envision and feel themselves winning the prize, explaining that they can use that visual image to fuel their luck. When they can see themselves as the winner, they can work backward to see what they need to do to make it really happen.

Don’t be afraid of hard work.

Thomas Jefferson once said, “I’m a great believer in luck, and I find the harder I work, the more I have of it.” Being successful or lucky does take a lot of work, but with patience, persistence and a positive attitude, you may be surprised at how successful you can be! And by demonstrating this to your children, you’ll teach them the value of hard work and how good luck truly comes about.

Gina Klein is a writer/author who resides in Kansas City with her husband, two daughters and houseful of animals. She is a strong believer in hard work, daily affirmations and positive visualization to achieve her goals.

Quick Quiz: 1. I know my friend has good luck because … a) She always gets good grades. b) She wins every contest she enters. c) She works hard to achieve her goals.

2. Luck comes from … a) Crossing your fingers. b) Good luck charms. c) Working hard and staying positive.

If you chose C for both questions, you know exactly how to achieve the luck you seek! Hard work and good luck definitely go hand-in-hand. kcparent.com december 2018

31

L

ook around you. Whiny, lazy, unmotivated kids are a dime a dozen, but self-disciplined children are few and far between. Just how can you identify a selfdisciplined child and what sets him apart from all the rest? Licensed psychologist and author Sherrie Campbell suggests the following are hallmarks of a disciplined child’s makeup.

Self-Controlled. Self-control is known by many names: Willpower.

Conscientiousness. Delayed gratification.

Whatever you want to call it, this practice in simple terms is the ability to regulate oneself and inhibit impulses, both of which are critical in developing emotional maturity.

A self-controlled child not only says “no” to desirable objects in the immediate but also chooses to say “yes” to doing what is right, regardless of how he feels. This skill has far reaching effects on everything from academic success to interpersonal relationships to work habits, physical and emotional health and more.

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shoes. Empathetic children don’t simply take pity on others from a distance but develop genuine care and understanding as they strive to relate to others and their feelings.

Responsible. Self-disciplined kids take pride and ownership in how they contribute at home, school and beyond. They see their role as a valuable one and strive to put forth their best effort, knowing their actions affect others as well as themselves.

Self-Motivated. Simply put, doing good feels good. And when making good choices brings about positive consequences, disciplined children will strive toward excellence, regardless of outside incentives or promptings, because it’s personally rewarding.

Self-Confident. Disciplined children

Empathetic. We live in a culture

are confident in who they are, as they know their value is found in what they are made of, not what they can do. This deep sense of self-worth is not based on personal performance or outside validation but comes from within.

that breeds egoism, the habit of valuing everything only in regards to personal interest, beyond all else. The result of so much self-indulgence can be unsavory, but perhaps one of the greatest tragedies is that in the mix, children lose the ability to consider how other people feel. Self-disciplined children, in contrast, seek to see beyond themselves and are able to put themselves in someone else’s

Respectful. A self-disciplined child will respect the authority figures in his life, viewing their role as helpful and valuable. Instead of undermining someone in leadership when he disagrees, a selfdisciplined child has the confidence to assert himself and does so through a respectful appeal.

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Accountable. Part of growing in maturity means learning to accept responsibility for your mistakes. Being held accountable provides room for growth, and self-disciplined children acknowledge this.

Resilient. Thomas Edison went through 1,000 failed attempts before he achieved the success of a working light bulb. When asked about it, he replied, “I didn’t fail 1,000 times. The lightbulb was an invention with 1,000 steps. Great success is built of failure, frustration, even catastrophe.” Self-disciplined children know that not everything comes on the first try and that learning through mistakes and mishaps is perhaps the greatest outcome of a “failed attempt.”

Joyful. Ask any parents what they hope for their children and the overwhelming response is they want them to be happy.

Ironically, when happiness is sought at the expense of personal disciplines, children flounder. A wise parent acknowledges that childhood is the training ground through which children prepare for adulthood. And self-discipline is one of the most integral parts to a successful life. When children own that for themselves, they find deep personal satisfaction. Indeed, self-disciplined children are among the happiest.

Lauren Greenlee seeks to raise confident, selfdisciplined boys. She and her family reside in Olathe.

holiday guide 35 diy snow globes 36 christmas cards 37 living nativities 38 less-is-more holiday 39 christmas memories 40 10 commandments 42 subscription boxes 44 nontraditional gifts 46 candy canes 47 tree farms 48 christmas, a to z

CRAFTCORNER

a

diy snow globe

dd some crafty Christmas charm to your holiday season by creating a DIY snow globe! You will be surprised at how easy it is to create, and you probably already have most of the materials on hand. Grab an old baby food jar or mason jar, a small ornament and a few other materials to help your child make a snow globe of his very own.

Materials Needed:

• Small lidded jars • Baby oil • Glitter • Ornament • Glue

Step One: Using super glue or hot glue, attach the ornament to the inside of the lid.

Step Two: Once the glue is dry, fill the jar with baby oil and about 1 T. of glitter.

Step Three: Put glue around the inside edge of the lid and then screw on to secure. Once the glue is dry, shake up your jar to watch it snow!

Megan Kapple is a blogger from Kansas City, MO, where she lives with her husband and four children. She loves anything DIY and crafty and blogs about her adventures at HomemadeGinger.com.

Yarn Wrapped Christmas Trees

Snazzy Stockings

Whimsical Wrap

For TONS more great craft projects, log onto KCParent.com!

kcparent.com december 2018

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INSTAWORTHY

coordinating christmas cards

D

on’t turn sending out Christmas cards into a begrudged “should.” Find the fun by figuring out how cute you can make them. Sending Christmas cards seems to being a dying tradition. However, I get such joy out of sending and receiving cards! Thanks to modern technology, you can revive this tradition—with ease and joy! If you don’t want to address all those cards, send electronic cards; they can be printed off by the recipient. You also have the option to create an e-card, send it off to be printed then mail the copies yourself.

Read on for the top trending colors to mingle in your merry pictures, along with some outfit ideas to inspire you and alleviate the fear of photographing a color-clashing clan. All you have to do is choose your favorite and recreate it. Hopefully, you can ditch the worry this joyful holiday season and be encouraged to send Christmas greetings to all your friends and family! They will be so impressed.

A A. Season’s Greetings A go-to for family holiday cards is a Christmasy theme and color combination. Matching the family is a snap if you keep most of your clothing simple and stay away from huge prints—except buffalo plaid, of course! This motif consists of grey + buffalo plaid + black + denim + brown boots. When you have muted layers, it’s easier to slowly build your wardrobe from there. Throw in a Christmas tree background and you are good to go!

B

B. Winter Wonderland Not feeling like “Christmas colors and ONLY Christmas colors”? Sometimes, I like to go for a more muted “New Year” look because I’d like for the people receiving my cards to keep our family picture up, even after Christmas. That’s where muted tones, like these picked for Winter Wonderland, come in. You can keep fur and browns but opt for more pink, gray and navy instead of red and green.

With this scheme, you create a card people can keep up through Easter!

C. Evergreen Family As already mentioned, super subtle colors have been trending the past couple of years. If you want to do something that’s very woodsy and outdoor-oriented, not to mention extremely easy to match, I recommend going for the muted greens and browns, like on the Evergreen Family palette. It also makes hunting for a location extremely easy. Just go outdoors!

C

D. Happy Holiday Put a modern spin on your usual Christmas color combo. Yes, you have your reds and greens—but you also have black and grey. Black wasn’t really a huge shade to use within a picture day color palette until a few years ago. Now, people will throw on pajamas and black hunter boots and head out to some evergreen trees to take family photos! One of the reasons I chose to show pajamas instead of an outfit for this color combo is because pajama photo sessions are extremely popular right now. It totally portrays the comfy Christmas look we all currently see on Pinterest. And it is so easy!

D

Last-minute photos can be done! We procrastinators need all the little helps and advice we can get! I hope these few ideas to successfully coordinate a last-minute photo session for you and your family are a big help.

Alexandra Hombs is a freelance writer and designer who lives in Riverside, MO, with her husband and two children.

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kansas city’s live nativity guide 2018

holiday guide

As you celebrate this holiday season, set aside time to remember the birth of Christ at a local living Nativity or pageant.

Journey to Judea

Walk Through Bethlehem

Nov. 30-Dec. 2, Coutryside Baptist Church

Dec. 7-9, Church of the Open Door

See the busy innkeeper and the young pregnant couple who was denied residence by him. Watch the angels tell good news to shepherds. Witness the empty cross and the open tomb and hear the next chapter of the story. JourneyToJudea.com

Child of Hope Nov. 30-Dec. 2, Oak Park Mall Theater Experience the Gospel story of the birth of Jesus like you’ve never seen it. Stunning music, costumes and design set the stage to bring us all to the child that changed the world forever. StorlingDance.org

Road to Bethlehem Dec. 1-2, South Summit Christian Church

You’ll be immersed in the sights, sounds and smells of an ancient city, eventually making your way to the same discovery the shepherds rushed to find—Jesus, the Savior, lying in a manger. OpenDoorInfo.org/wtb

Drive-Through Living Nativity Dec. 8, First Baptist Church of Kansas City Drive through this Nativity where Mary, Joseph and baby Jesus are represented.

Live animals are part of the tour, too. Each family receives a CD to play along the route. FBCKCMO.net

An Extraordinary Ordinary Night Dec. 9, Colonial Presbyterian Church

From the warmth of your car, drive down the road to Bethlehem and enjoy live scenes that tell the Christmas story. Encounter shepherds and sheep, angels, wise men, Mary, Joseph and the baby Jesus.

SouthSummitCC.org/road-to-bethlehem

An Extraordinary Ordinary Night is a creative production with a contemporary tale woven into the timeless Nativity story through music and song. The program culminates with children and adults alike walking to the manger, bringing gifts to be distributed to families in need. ColonialKC.org

Road to Bethlehem

Christmas in the Barn

Dec. 7-9, Red Bridge Baptist Church

Dec. 24, Johnson Farms

Road to Bethlehem is a captivating, walkthrough experience, giving viewers a glimpse into the true meaning of Christmas.

Through dramatic narrative from the Bible, well-loved characters will draw listeners into the mystery, revealing the greatest story of all time.

Enjoy a full sensory celebration of our Savior’s birth. Homemade sweets and hot beverages will be served, and live music will set the mood. A freewill donation will benefit Lord of Love Lutheran Church’s Wednesday night community meal.

JohnsonFarms.net

For a complete list of living Nativities, head to KCParent.com.

kcparent.com december 2018

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MOJOFORMOMS mōjō: 1. influence, especially magic power 2. mom joy

CELEBRATING

A LESS-IS-MORE HOLIDAY When my kids were little tots, I tried to organize and cram in as many rituals and outings during the holidays as humanly possible. This made for some glistening memories that have woven themselves into the fabric of our family, as traditions do, but it also fostered a season of stress, hustle and hassle. By the 12th day of Christmas, I felt exhausted. If your family struggles with holiday overload, here are some strategies to streamline traditions, free more space in your holiday calendar and pile on less stuff for more of what truly matters.

1 Your Family, Your Traditions Some of the best advice I ever got before I was married came from an old neighbor. He said that when I began my own family, the holidays belonged to us. He told me not to feel obligated to please other people—grandparents, in-laws, extended family, friends—at the expense of creating our own family traditions at home (like our kids’ belting carols on the staircase to wake us up Christmas morning). I know parents who resentfully try to please everyone and split their time into so many fragments that they neglect creating their own family traditions. If sharing the holidays with others brings you joy, carry on. If you feel resentful, obligated and thinstretched, it may be time for your family to stay home alone, or let loved ones come to you this year, instead of making the rounds like Santa on Christmas Eve. Your family, your traditions.

2 Less Secular, More Sacred

Over the years we’ve grown more deliberate about which traditions we celebrate. We’ve come to realize that less is often so much more. Some years it felt like we had more traditions than days in December, and Christmas was more chaotic than Christ-like. If you suffer from celebration overload, consider which traditions are truly worth keeping.

Which bring you closer as a family?

For us: gingerbread houses, books by the tree, family movies, baking cookies.

Which reflect the sacred meaning of the season?

Luminary walk, our Christmas Eve Bethlehem supper, Advent readings, caroling.

Which feel burdensome?

Too many events, obligations and crowds.

3 Trading Stuff

for Experiences My husband and I noticed the hatching dolls and scattered Legos that dazzled our kids on Christmas morning lay neglected within weeks. We still wrap a few gifts beneath our tree but have made a deliberate decision to spend money on experiences rather than material things. Last Christmas, our kids’ main present was a PowerPoint presentation about a travel adventure in the coming months, along with an assignment to write reports on the places we would visit (they would be our tour guides). Studies prove experiences bring far more happiness than things, bonding families and building lasting memories. Fewer toys, more togetherness.

Wendy Connelly, M.Div., is a podcaster (MoJo For Moms podcast), Christian life coach and mother of two.

She’s the admin for the MoJo For Moms Facebook group and posts her latest podcasts and content at MoJoForMoms.com.

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kcparent.com december 2018

WORDFROMDAD

christmas memories

S

hortly after school resumed, Bob beat me home, but didn’t go in. Instead, he stooped and picked up a large, softcovered volume.

I couldn’t stifle my curiosity. “Whatcha got?”

“The Christmas catalog, nosy. Here, take it.”

“Already? It’s still summer.” But, I took the book inside and dropped my homework on the couch. I scanned past page after page of clothes and tools, but stopped when I saw the wonderful toys, in full color. Of course, Christmas was a good three months away, so I placed the catalog on the coffee table and ran outside.

Summer finally ended, and Halloween caught my attention. However, the glossy images in the catalog enticed me whenever I had a spare moment, and I pored over the tantalizing choices, my heart cloaked in greed.

By the time I’d eaten all my trick-or-treat candy, the slick images drew me in without mercy. One day, I wanted a slot car race track.

The next, I had my hopes fixed on a giant set of Civil War soldiers, in blue and gray. So many choices.

Santa arrived in the last float on the Thanksgiving Day Parade, beginning the official Christmas season, and I concentrated on my behavior, with mixed success.

However, the December days crawled by, and I complained to Mom. She wasn’t sympathetic. “Concentrate on your schoolwork, not the catalog.”

On Christmas Eve, I couldn’t sleep, and Mom gave me a hug. “Go to bed. Santa won’t come while you’re awake.”

I knew, but my plan didn’t include sleep.

The seeds planted by the catalog’s arrival three months earlier had grown to an unquenchable desire, and I kept my eyes open, while I waited in bed. This time, I’d hear reindeer on the roof. This year, I’d stay awake and catch him. But, I never did.

William R. Bartlett lives in Belton with his family.

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Contact us to learn more. (888) 655-5500 | www.kvckansas.org kcparent.com december 2018

39

THE TEN commandments OF CHRISTMAS

Want to experience a more joyful Christmas season this year that doesn’t leave you depleted, miserable and broke?

Here are 10 ways to shift your perspective and take command of this “hap-happiest” time of the year.

Nothing burns holes into the fantasy Christmas like real life. Maybe the tree is lopsided, the dog ate your 7-year-old’s gingerbread house, or you were so focused on creating the best holiday ever that you ended up too sick to enjoy it when the big day finally arrived.

Thou shall not overcommit

Thou shall rediscover “the why” Take time to reevaluate your priorities. How do you want Christmas to feel? What do you want your kids to remember most?

“Sometimes we need to take a step back and ask ourselves why Christmas is important to us, because I think ‘the why’ gets lost. It just becomes an expectation of self and family— or whoever— to have it look a certain way,”says Maki Moussavi, Shawnee, a transformational coach, speaker and author of The Discomfort Zone (to be released spring 2019).

“Take a step back to assess, from an intangible, emotional perspective, why Christmas is important.”

Decide ahead of time which activities won’t work this year. Instead of committing to five parties and multiple gift exchanges, choose a few that you’re enthusiastic about attending.

“Be firm, decisive and assertive, always coming from a place of love for everyone and keeping the focus on the origin of the holidays,” Flynn says, who specializes in helping women manage anxiety, depression and holiday overwhelm.

“Graciously decline and send a nice card or note.”

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Self-care is essential all year long, but especially during the extra busy holidays when your stress level is more likely to sky-rocket. Pare down your list to what reasonably makes sense for your health, time and emotional well-being.

And practice restorative techniques that relax and reenergize you.

Simple ways to recharge include soaking in a warm bath, watching a favorite TV show, walking outside, curling up with a juicy novel, and enjoying a nap or a massage.

Thou shall quit worshipping perfection

“Decide to do things differently this year. Strive for the good and be satisfied with the good. Too often the focus is on the result, and we tend to lose focus on the beautiful process of getting to the result,” says therapist Julia Flynn, Julia Flynn Counseling, Kansas City, MO.

Thou shall rest

Simple Ways to Enjoy a More Meaningful Season

• Practice random acts of kindness.

• Sponsor a family in need.

• Volunteer for a charity.

• Start a new family tradition.

• Decorate cookies with your kids.

• Host a hot chocolate

party, including toppings like candy canes, whipped cream and sprinkles.

• Watch Christmas

movies together.

• Attend a holiday play or concert.

holiday guide Thou shall honor thy family

Thou shall invite thy partner’s participation If you feel overwhelmed and stressed because you’re trying to manage the bulk of holiday prep on top of working and taking care of your family, ask your spouse for help. Discuss what you’d both like Christmas to look and feel like.

“Sometimes it’s not that men don’t want to be involved. It’s that they are never invited to be, and they don’t ask,” Moussavi says.

Maybe your husband can mail the packages for out-of-town family, purchase tickets to the Christmas play your family wants to see or take charge of a few of the gifts.

Attempts to please others by saying yes to everyone else’s holiday gatherings without taking into account you and your family’s desires can cause undue anxiety, frustration and resentment.

“The holidays are about family time, appreciating one another and caring for each other. If the focus is switched to the less important gift exchanges and gatherings, all planned at the same time, you can’t enjoy the experience and the original meaning is lost,” Flynn says.

For those events that you’d like to attend, but can’t, firmly communicate to your extended family or friends that you value time spent with them and would like to discuss alternative ideas for getting together. And don’t feel guilty about standing by your decisions.

“You have every right in the world to establish what you want your Christmas tradition to be. You are not obligated to participate in somebody else’s version of Christmas,” Moussavi says.

Thou shall not compete with thy neighbors

Thou shall not allow others to steal thy happiness Plan ahead for those individuals who love to bait you into an upsetting conversation at annual gatherings. Because you know how the person is likely to behave, rehearse how you will respond when she pounces.

“The only thing you can do is get better at making it clear what you will and won’t tolerate,” Moussavi says.

“You have to shut it down. Your standing up for yourself is normal, empowered, adult behavior.”

Arm yourself with responses like: “I’m here to enjoy myself. I don’t want to talk about that right now,”or, “Let’s agree to disagree.”

Also, physically exit from the situation by saying: “I’m going to go refresh my drink,” or, “I have to make a call.”

As Theodore Roosevelt once quipped, “Comparison is the thief of joy.” Some people enjoy casting their home in a professionally-created holiday glow, while others prefer to hang a festive wreath on their door and call it good. Do what brings you pleasure and makes sense for your budget.

Thou shall give from thy heart Rather than twisting yourself in knots seeking the perfect present for everyone on your list, take a more light-hearted approach to gift-giving.

For example, give a t-shirt with a meaningful quote, a digital photo album commemorating a fun getaway, or an experience like tickets to the zoo or a concert. Volunteering your time is also a fulfilling way to give.

Thou shall simplify “The holiday can be manageable and simple if we allow it to be,” Flynn says. “What makes the holiday so difficult is our own thinking about it. We make it difficult for ourselves.”

Experiment with small changes that can relieve your stress. Hire a caterer for your party.

Forego Christmas cards this year. For the relative who has everything, send flowers or make a donation in his name to an organization that is important to him.

“If you are intentional, you can make Christmas about the ideas of love, caring for one another, understanding, enjoying quality time together and treating each other as the precious beings each of us are,” Flynn says.

Christa Melnyk Hines is a freelance writer who resides in Olathe with her family, which includes her husband, two sons and a menagerie of pets. Her intention this holiday is to slow down and focus more on the magic of the season and less on lopsided Christmas trees. kcparent.com kcparent.com december december 2018 2018

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subscription boxes

Kiwi Crate

Little Passports

Tinker Crate

king Kits Kidstir Coo Green Kid Crafts

Subscription boxes are great both to show you care and to give a unique gift to someone special.

i

don’t know about you, but I enjoy trying to find the perfect gift. I also try not to clutter up other’s lives too much.

With the gift giving season upon us, where do we turn for such great gifts?

Subscription boxes!

Subscription boxes are great both to show you care and to give a unique gift to someone special.

You can choose from a vast array of interests and subscription lengths to cater perfectly to your recipient. You can opt for a one-time gift, three or six months, or even give the gift that keeps giving all year long!

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kcparent.com december 2018

For the Lego enthusiast, try BRICKBOX Club or Brick Loot. In the same vein, give your little builders Tinker Crate or Bitsbox to get them started on learning how to code.

For the budding artist who uses up all your tape and construction paper, I personally recommend trying Kiwi Crate, which offers boxes curated specifically for babies up to teenagers to keep those creative minds going. Other arts and crafts subscriptions include toucanBox or Green Kid Crafts. For the promising foodie in your family, check out a KidStir Cooking Kit subscription. Each hands-on kit instructs kids how to make the given recipe, master new cooking skills with provided kitchen tools, as well as teaches in a fun way about the food they’re making.

To shower the family’s die-hard sports fan in official fan wear, consider Sportscrate or Fanchest. For children looking to start or add to their baseball card collection, check out Baseball Cards of the Month Club, specifically the Kids Club. If you’re looking to gift the fun of learning, check out Little Passports, Girls Can! Crate and Just Like Me! Book Box subscriptions. Little Passports are boxes aimed at teaching children about the world around them. Girls Can! Crate delivers

boxes teaching girls about inspiring women along with coordinating STEM activities.

“The Just Like Me! Book Box was built on the foundation of exposing children of color to literature, characters, authors and stories that are reflective of them,” A couple of subscriptions are just for fun, such as Sock Panda and Sensory TheraPlay Box. Sock Panda delivers fun and unique socks sure to put a smile on the recipient’s face. The company’s loftier goal is making the world a better place by donating socks to those in need in homeless shelters and underprivileged classrooms throughout the nation.

We all have those challenging adults for whom finding a gift can seem impossible.

The same subscription strategy applies. Think about their interests and start searching based on that particular interest. They may not know the perfect gift even exists for them!

Here are some to consider.

Food boxes such as Butcher Box deliver premium meat straight to your door, or try Carnivore Club, Try the World or Mouth.

Offering beverages, Misto Box is lovely for your coffee enthusiasts, and Tea Box or Plum Delux is great for those favoring tea. For adult beverages, check out Wine or Beer of

holiday guide the Month Club, because who wouldn’t want to come home to wine or craft beer on the front step? Other food related boxes, such as FoodStir, help people get back into baking in their own kitchens and making memories together.

Consider fashion and beauty boxes.

Sometimes it’s nice to be gifted some higher quality items that you wouldn’t normally splurge on for yourself. We moms especially tend to put others before ourselves, so this is a thoughtful gift for the women in your life. Stitch Fix is pretty well known, and I personally have loved the couple of boxes I’ve received. They sent me skinny jeans that fit, and I didn’t have to drag kids with me to a dressing room! Third Love is a company committed to finding the best-fitting bra for all women, without the hassle of a bra fitting.

FabFitFun got a resounding “YES!” from my informal poll. Ashleigh Moshier, mother of two, says, “Fabfitfun! My mom gets it for

If your child is facing challenges in school, “excelling” may seem out of reach.

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me every year as my Christmas gift! It’s really fun to get a box every season!” Jessi Cole, mother of three, says, “FabFitFun!! I’ve done several others but that one is my favorite!”

On beauty boxes, Jennifer Willis, mother of four, says, “I love my Birchbox subscription! It’s fun to get makeup and skincare samples each month. It’s improved my makeup game and it’s fun to have something just for me!” Another beauty subscription is Sephora’s Play Box. Leann McHugh, mother of three, says, “I get Sephora’s Play Box each month. It’s fun and inexpensive.” The Dollar Shave Club or Harry’s razors are other options to treat both the men and women you’re gifting this season.

Who wouldn’t enjoy a hobby-related subscription box? For booklovers, give the gift of a new book delivered to their door with Book of the Month. Bonus if you add a gift card to a local coffee shop so your reader

can slip off for a few hours of caffeinated reading. For the runners, check out the Runner Box or Runner Crate. Perhaps you have a gardener to buy for—then check out Plow Box, Urban Organic Gardener or Succulent Studios. For the hunting and fishing enthusiast, check out the Sportsman Crate or Battlbox. Then there are the people in your life who would be tickled to receive a gift they can share with their favorite furry friend. Look into Bark Box, Purr Packs and RescueBox that deliver treats and toys while also giving support to animals in need.

If supporting local businesses is a priority for you, you always can create your own boxes from locally-owned shops, or contact your recipient’s local stores to see whether they might put together a box for you.

Stephanie Loux is a freelance writer married to her college sweetheart, Mike, and is mother to Layla, Mason and Slade.

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Call Spring Terburgh at 913-636-4472 kcparent.com december 2018

43

non-toy gifts for the

holiday season

I

have a love-hate relationship with toys. I love seeing the joy and excitement on my kids’ faces when they open up a brand new toy. But I often hate the effect that a mountain of toys has on them.

First there’s the issue of organization. Toys need a place to go, and as a collection grows, so does the need for more space—not to mention more bins and boxes to store everything. Plus, each new toy adds more time just for putting everything away! It doesn’t take very long (or very many kids) for a toy accumulation to overtake a house! Then there’s the issue of missing pieces. If kids don’t put those multi-piece toys away properly, parts go AWOL. The more toys a child has, the likelihood of everything being put away properly decreases.

And there’s nothing more frustrating than putting together a puzzle only to find two pieces missing. Lastly, I have to mention the effect of overwhelm. When too many play options are on the table, I’m convinced kids have more fun making a mess by dumping all their toys than they do actually playing with them.

All this isn’t to discredit toys. They can be wonderful, creative and educational ways to open a child’s mind to a wonderful world of play. But too much of a good thing certainly can be a reality. For all these reasons and more, I strongly prefer buying non-toy gifts—and directing family and friends purchasing gifts for my kids to do the same.

Thankfully, some fabulous items are out there that are both practical and fun. Kids will still be thrilled to receive them, but you won’t have to worry about finding them unused, unappreciated or in need of donation a few months down the road.

1

Monogrammed Stationery. What could be more fun than

receiving a personalized set of cards and envelopes? Take it up another level by including personalized return address labels and a set of nice pens. My personal favorites are from Sarah + Abraham and Expressionary. P.S. Don’t think this is a girls-only gift idea! My boys love their video game console-shaped card set!

2

Travel Supplies. Nothing sets a future globetrotter up

for success better than good gear of his own! A duffle bag, toiletry kit or high quality backpack can prepare a child for whatever comes, whether it’s an overnight stay at Grandma’s or a cross country vacation. Brownie points: If your child does travel a fair share, consider making special notes and tucking them into his luggage to be discovered while he is away.

3

Picture Perfect Mementos. Grandma and Grandpa aren’t the only ones who appreciate photobooks of the kids. Share the love by making a scrapbook to give your child. Digital scrapbooking retailers abound, but don’t underestimate the power of simply placing 4x6 photographs in an acid-free album along with a few personal notes about the memories included. Don’t have the time to make a whole album? Consider making a photo blanket or a photo mug. After all, coffee drinkers aren’t the only ones to enjoy the gift of a good mug! Personalized mugs make great designated water cups for each child and are great vessels out of which to eat cereal or ice cream!

4

Bedroom Upgrades. As a kid, I loved the prospect of upgrading my room. My kids are no different. Bed sheets, soft minky blankets, weighted blankets, curtains and wall art have

Show Tickets

The Gift of Kamp

The hills are alive!

The beloved musical story of Maria and the von Trapp family will once again thrill audiences with its Tony, Grammy and Academy Award-winning best score, including “My Favorite Things” and “Do-Re-Mi.” As part of the Sabates Eye Centers Kansas City Broadway Series, the American Theatre Guild brings this family favorite to the Kauffman Performing Arts Center, Jan. 15-20. Tickets make the perfect holiday gift for family and friends! Purchase today at BroadwayInKC.com. And, head to KCParent.com to enter to win tickets to the show!

This Christmas, give your child the gift of confidence, strong character and lifelong friendships! Kanakuk is a premier summer camp outside of Branson, MO, for boys and girls ages 6-18. More than 70 activities, sports and themed parties provide age-appropriate, fun, safe experiences to help Kampers grow spiritually, physically, emotionally and socially. Learn more about customizing your child’s experience at KanakukSummer.com.

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kcparent.com december 2018

all been welcome gifts. And remember, a room renovation doesn’t have to be expensive. Little touches like decorative finials, wall decals, curtain pull-backs or floating shelves can take a room from drab to fab! Looking for function more than fashion? Consider getting a portable fan, sound machine, book light, night light, essential oil diffuser or bunk bed lamp.

5

Time Management Tools. A wristwatch seems like a really

grown-up gift for little ones, but it can be practical as they’re learning to tell time. And fashionable watches make great gifts for the older kiddos on your list, too. A fun alarm clock that signals when to still stay in bed (hello, toddlers!) and when to get out of it (hello, teenagers!) can make time management more enjoyable.

6

Money Management Tools. Long gone are the days when

a piggy bank is just porcine-shaped. Find a character bank or, better yet, look for one with allocations for saving, giving and spending, like a Moonjar. Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace Jr. kit is made with kids in mind, teaching them tools for how to win with money. And don’t underestimate the importance of a good wallet or coin purse.

7 8 9 10

A Monogrammed Towel or Beach Towel. Fluffy,

personalized terry is a great idea for keeping track of towels on vacation or while away at summer camp.

Bedtime Apparel. New pajamas, socks, slippers or a bathrobe can make the bedtime routine more fun.

Tunes and Talk. A portable CD player, audiobooks and

Audible or Spotify subscriptions make for great gifts—just don’t forget the headphones to go with them!

Membership. Oftentimes, the best gifts are memories.

Memberships make financial sense (often saving money after a second visit), but also provide the opportunity for in-depth exploration at each attraction. For a comprehensive listing, check out KCParent.com.

holiday guide 11

Classes. Give the gift of opportunity. Art or music lessons, dance classes, gymnastics or ninja warrior courses are a great way for kids to try their hand at a new endeavor.

12

Sporting Equipment. Consider giving your budding athlete new cleats, rackets, Dri-Fit activewear, leotards or dance shoes.

13

Seasonal/Outdoor Gifts. Sleds, snowsuits, gloves, scarves and snow boots supply hours of winter fun. A slackline, bike or scooter (such as a Ripstik or Razor), or croquet set can be enjoyed in spring or fall. Goggles, chalk and bubbles make for delightful summer fun.

14

Camping Gear. Consider purchasing a hammock, headlamps, flashlights, a tent, lawn chairs, hiking boots, sleeping bags and compass, then hit the trail as a family!

15

Magazine Subscriptions. When you’re a kid, getting mail is exciting. Consider a subscription to National Geographic Kids, Ranger Rick, American Girl or, my boys’ personal favorite, Lego Club (it’s free!).

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Monthly Kits. If there’s anything more exciting than getting mail as a kid, it’s receiving a package! Monthly kits such as Little Passports and Kiwi Crate deliver themed activities that can educate and entertain a child for a year and beyond.

Lauren Greenlee is a freelance writer, boy mom and aspiring minimalist residing in Olathe.

Dining Out

Season Pass

Gift certificates to a favorite restaurant are sure to be a hit—and give Mom a much needed night off from cooking!

Charleston’s (Charlestons.com) restaurant has a wide variety of items the entire family will enjoy. Red Robin’s (RedRobin.com) burgers and endless fries satisfy the largest of appetites!

Can’t decide on just one place? A gift certificate to a shopping mall like Legends Outlets (LegendsShopping.com) lets the receiver choose the restaurant.

Give the gift of time together with a season pass to a favorite local attraction. A Kansas City Zoo Friends of the Zoo membership (KansasCityZoo.org) not only offers admission to the zoo but includes additional fun events throughout the year. A pass to Union Station (UnionStation.org) includes not only admission, but member extras as well. A gold pass to Worlds of Fun (WorldsOfFun.com) includes admission and parking.

Give Mercy Children’s Mercy is a nonprofit hospital that relies on the generosity of donors, volunteers and supporters. Every gift you make to Children’s Mercy not only helps bring hope and comfort to the children and families today, but also ensures, through pediatric research, the advancing treatment of children tomorrow. Whether through donating goods, volunteering or shopping for a cause, a gift to Children’s Mercy in a recipient’s honor makes a cherished gift. Details at GiveMercyKC.org. kcparent.com december 2018

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kansas city’s best

candy cane treats Candy canes are signature sweet treats of the holidays.

These local businesses sell candy cane goodies throughout the season that are sure to satisfy your peppermint cravings.

5B&Co. Candle Makers 5BAndCoBrookside.com This locally-owned and -operated candle shop is known for handcrafted candles produced in small batches. Their seasonal selection includes Candy Cane, Naughty or Nice and Let It Snow candles in a variety of sizes perfect for holiday gifting.

Kansas City Cupcake Company

Sheridan’s

KansasCityCupcakeCo.net

Kansas City’s own frozen custard company is known for delicious frozen treats. This holiday season, you can indulge in a Candy Cane Pothole Concrete made with fresh vanilla frozen custard blended with peppermint candy cane pieces and chocolate flakes, then filled with rich hot fudge.

Among their holiday offerings, the candy cane cupcake is a favorite temptation. You’ll enjoy the rich chocolate cake filled with peppermint ganache and topped with a peppermint swirled buttercream.

Donutology Donutology.com Famous for one-of-a-kind donut concoctions, this shop tantalizes customers this holiday season with their signature minis featuring crushed candy canes.

Cheesecake Factory TheCheesecakeFactory.com Sample one of this eatery’s seasonal treats: the white chocolate cheesecake swirled with chunks of chocolate peppermint bark, topped with white chocolate mousse and finished with chopped peppermint.

SheridansFrozenCustard.com

Chip’s Chocolate Factory ChipsChocolateFactory.com This shop is beloved for live candy-making demonstrations and made-from-scratch sweets.

Fans love the holiday favorite peppermint fudge with crushed candy canes inside.

Roasterie TheRoasterie.com Kansas City’s own coffee company offers a special holiday drink: white chocolate peppermint mocha (ultimately, white chocolate candy cane mocha) after Thanksgiving through the holiday season.

tip You’ll find candy cane hunts, a candy cane 5K and candy cane-themed light displays in our Christmas Guide on KCParent.com.

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christmas tree farms in kc

holiday guide

Are you in the artificial tree camp or the real tree camp?

There are pros and cons to each. If you like the real tree, Kansas City offers many spots from which to pick your tree. These family-owned businesses offer a touch of nostalgia and are perfect for your holiday memories.

Tips: • •

•

•

Dress for being out at a farm. Wear warm clothes and shoes.

Measure your space before you go. This includes doorways (you have to get the tree inside the house). Trees in the field may appear to be a “reasonable” size, but once placed in your living room they may be too large for the space. Get an idea in advance of the height and width you have available. You might even bring a measuring tape with you.

Many of these farms offer pre-cut trees or cut-your-own. They will provide the tools to cut your own and offer great advice as well. Ask staff members for tips and tricks; they are more than happy to help.

Call ahead before you go for an updated inventory. Many farms close for the season once they are sold out.

•

Read the information on each farm at KCParent.com carefully and visit the farm’s website for information, including special events.

Some require cash, others accept credit cards.

•

Many farms will shake, flock and net your tree for you. Some will help tie it to the roof of your car; others will provide twine so you can tie it yourself. These services are a big help.

• Bring hand sanitizer and wet wipes to help clean off fresh tree sap.

• Take photos and stop for hot cocoa on the way home!

For a complete list of area Christmas tree farms, visit KCParent.com.

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!

Experience Christmas Around the World, enjoy Storytime with Santa, sing along with Mr. Stinky Feet's Christmas 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 2018

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christmas in kansas city

from A to Z

By Kristina Light

b

oard the KCS Holiday Express Dec. 14-18 at Union Station, where little ones will also enjoy a ride on the classic Jones Store holiday train.

a

dvent is the celebration of the Christ child’s birth. Experience a living Nativity or music service in honor of the season. Find a living Nativity guide at KCParent.com.

c

ity sidewalks decked in holiday style await at Downtown Dazzle.

Experience glittering light displays, and seasonal decorations throughout all 14 neighborhoods encompassing downtown Kansas City.

e

ggs—1,620 to be exact— are just one key ingredient in making the yummy and whimsical gingerbread village on display at Crown Center.

G

hosts haunt the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge at Kansas City Repertory Theatre’s 38th annual production of A Christmas Carol.

Watch Dickens’ classic come to life with festive music, outstanding costumes and sets, and a message of hope and redemption.

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d

on’t be a cotton-headed ninny muggins and miss out on a special evening of happy holiday cheer with Buddy the Elf at Summit Fair! On Dec 7, 6:00-9:00, enjoy an Elf-themed night of fun with cookies, cocoa, crafts, free visits and photos with Buddy the Elf, balloon art, holiday face painting, giveaways and more!

f

east on a breakfast of pancakes with Jolly Old St. Nick. Many local attractions host breakfast with Santa events throughout December, and they’re all on our calendar on KCParent.com.

h

omemade gifts are the best. Let the children paint ceramic keepsakes for loved ones at Ceramic Café or Paint, Glaze & Fire. Visit KCParent.com for coupons.

j

i

oyous music, delightful stories, imaginative puppet shows, inspiring craft classes and special programs can be enjoyed for free at Mid-Continent Public Libraries, where they offer a program for every age and interest to get in the holiday mood.

L

holiday guide

ace up those skates and enjoy ice skating at one of the metro’s outdoor rinks: Crown Center Ice Terrace (save on Two-for-One Tuesdays), Summit Ice, the Ice at Park Place, Linden Square Ice Rink or the Ice Rink at Bois D’Arc Park in Lenexa.

ndulge in hot cocoa from Panache Chocolatier on the Country Club Plaza. It’s a decadent treat to enjoy while walking through the miles of lights creating our city’s signature holiday scene. If you’re really up for a treat, take a carriage ride or do some holiday shopping.

k

ids of all ages will love celebrating the holidays with Snoopy, Charlie Brown and the entire Peanuts gang at Worlds of Fun’s WinterFest on weekends through Dec. 30. You’ll be dazzled by thousands of holiday lights, delicious holiday goodies and festive activities as the park is transformed into a winter wonderland.

m n

ovie classics can be enjoyed all over again on the big screen with affordable holiday screenings at Union Station’s Extreme Screen and unforgettable movie parties at Alamo Drafthouse Cinema.

ighttime is the right time to take the family on a light-seeing expedition.

Visit KCParent.com for our guide to the best lights in the city.

O

ld-fashioned holiday sweets tempt at Laura Little’s, where you can purchase fudge, divinity, classic chocolates and popcorn. And at Mely’s Yogurt & Ice Cream in Prairie Village, you can purchase gingerbread houses—choose from decorated and undecorated so you can make your own centerpiece.

p

rinces and princesses of all ages are invited to visit Kansas City’s own Fairy Princess on weekends at the Kansas City Museum at the Historic Garment District. Share your holiday wish, take a photo and receive a souvenir gift.

kcparent.com december 2018

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Q

uaint historic towns like Weston, Leavenworth, Parkville, Atchison and Lexington are perfect weekend day trips for shopping at local boutiques, touring historic homes and enjoying small town holidays.

r

udolph with his nose so bright shines at the Coterie, where Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical is back by popular demand, bringing your favorite Christmas characters to stage to retell the tale of a beloved band of misfit friends who become holiday heroes.

S

troll down candlelit trails at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens Holiday Luminary Walk on the three weekends after Thanksgiving. Experience the serenity of a mile of candles, holiday lights, live musical entertainment, Santa Claus in the Depot, horse-drawn wagon rides and hot cider around a campfire.

T

U

nderwater diving is Santa’s favorite way to visit the penguins at the Kansas City Zoo. Santa dives with penguins on weekends all throughout December.

Make memories at Holiday Wild and special educational programs for all ages. FOTZ memberships are a wonderful holiday gift for the entire family.

chaikovsky’s Nutcracker will transport you away to a magical land of sugarplum fairies and dancing mice at the Kansas City Ballet’s annual holiday performance at Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts.

W

elcome friends with a personalized homemade holiday sign. Choose your design and paint your own oneof-a-kind holiday greeting at Board and Brush.

V

ibrant poinsettias are among the fresh plants you may purchase at Family Tree Nursery when the stores are transformed into winter wonderlands with fresh greens, real Christmas trees and holiday decor. Santa visits select days in December.

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y

uletide memories come to life at the National Museum of Toys and Miniatures, where you may visit Father Christmas on Dec. 16. Enjoy hot cocoa, cookies and vintage holiday stories.

eX

citement is hard to contain when you see the Legends Outlets giant Christmas tree featuring animated lights synchronized to music. This is the perfect place to shop for gifts.

Z

zzzzzz’s are what you hope to catch after all the hustle and bustle of the holidays.

Cuddle up with a locallymade pillow or blanket purchased at Made in KC or Lemon Thyme, two shops with a great selection of gifts for the hard-to-shop-for friends in your life.

- Learn to ice skate - 6-7 week sessions - 30 min of class/week - Professional coaching staff - Opportunity to compete - Available to all ages - Free skate rental on class days

december

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

CALENDAR

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

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kcparent.com december 2018

Santa Dives with Penguins at Kansas City Zoo

see

enjoy

visit

play

laugh

Watch as Santa dives with Penguins weekends at the Kansas City Zoo. Get a photo as penguins torpedo around him.

KansasCityZoo.org

Take the family to Winterfest at Worlds of Fun, weekends through Dec. 31. Enjoy live shows, holiday activities, cookie decorating and more!

WorldsOfFun.com

Father Christmas Comes to T/m on Dec. 16. Listen to him share stories of holidays past at the National Museum of Toys and Miniatures.

816.235.8000

Keep kids active Dec. 20-21 and 26-28 at Winter Break Camp at the Lenexa Rec Center. Spend time creating, splashing in the pool and more.

Lenexa.com/getactive

Have a night of fun at Comedy City at Culture House (Oak Park Mall) on Dec. 29.

Five funny improvisers create hilarious sketches. $10.

CultureHouse.com

1 Saturday Breakfast with Santa 8:00, Grinter Place. Enjoy breakfast with Santa and receive a goodie bag.

Arts and crafts and tours of the house offered.

KSHS.org Family Resource Conference 9:00, Marriott (Overland Park). Valuable training for parents while foster kids enjoy fun activities.

913.683.2434 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 Mayor’s Christmas Carnival 9:00, Roger T Sermon Community Center. Carnival games, face painting, balloon creation and Santa! Free.

816.325.7370 Holiday Wild Today & tomorrow, Kansas City Zoo. Santa, his elves and Mrs Claus will be at the zoo for polar-riffic activities. KansasCityZoo.org Coleman Open House 10:00, National Museum of Toys and Miniatures. See the museum’s 9-foot-tall dollhouse decked out for the holiday season. 816.235.8000

Christmas Open House 10:00, Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm. Enjoy the Heritage Center decorations, make an ornament, visit Santa and more! Mahaffie.org

Candy Land Christmas 1:00, Downtown Smithville. Visit Santa and then grab a Candy Land map for adventures through downtown businesses. 816.532.0946

Holiday Swing Today & tomorrow, Union Station. More than 100 vendors of handmade and vintage wares, food trucks, photo booth and holiday cheer! TheStrawberrySwing.com

Christkindlmarkt 2:00, Downtown Shawnee.

Entertainment, kids crafts, balloon artists, Santa, live reindeer, food trucks and more!

CityOfShawnee.org

A Visit from St Nicholas 10:00, Shoal Creek Living History Museum. Take a break from the present and experience a 19th-century Christmas. 816.792.2655 Gingerbread House Making 10:00, Jo Co Library (Shawnee). Build a simple gingerbread house. For children with a caregiver. Free. Prereg at 913.826.4600.

Sugar Plum Fairy Children’s Ball 10:30, Muehlebach Tower. Dine on a delicious three-course lunch and enjoy KC Ballet’s The Nutcracker. KCBallet.org Hands-On History 11:00, National World War I Museum and Memorial. History is brought to life.

Handle Great War artifacts. TheWorldWar.org

Christmas on the Farm 2:00, Watkins Woolen Mill. Enjoy caroling, samples of treats, plum pudding flaming demonstrations, Father Christmas and more. 816. 580.3387 Hometown Holidays 2:00, Historic Downtown Liberty. Join us for photos with Santa, s’mores, crafts for kids, shopping, music and tree lighting ceremony. 816.781.3575 Child of Hope Today & tomorrow, Oak Park Mall Studio. See Storing Dance Studio’s portrayal of the Nativity story. CultureHouse.com Candlelight Homes Tour 2:00, Weston. Tour includes three premier antebellum homes, a bed and breakfast, downtown loft and more. $15-$20. WestonMO.com Santa Experience 2:00, Blooming Keepsakes (Louisburg). Visit with Santa, make a simple, handmade craft, decorate cookies and more. $18. Pre-reg at 913.972.0155.

TAKE A little TIME FOR SOME BIG HOLIDAY FUN / FATHER CHRISTMAS / DECEMBER 16 | 1PM − 2:30PM

Happy Holidays!

Enjoy cocoa, cookies, stories, and selfies with an old-fashioned Father Christmas.

HOLIDAY SHOPPING / MUSEUM STORE

Discover unique gifts like retro toys, miniature collectibles, books, and handcrafted fashion accessories. Stuff their stockings with T/m admission passes or share the gift of imagination all year long with a T/m membership.

THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF TOYS/MINIATURES OPEN WED – MON 10AM – 4PM, CLOSED TUES 5235 OAK STREET, KANSAS CITY, MO 64112 816.235.8000 TOYANDMINIATUREMUSEUM.ORG kcparent.com december 2018

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Retro Story Time Dec. 5, Johnson County Museum. Enjoy Frosty the Snowman and an art activity for little hands. JCPRD.com/museum

Winterfest 5:00, Worlds of Fun. Sparkling lights transform the park that features live shows, holiday characters and activities, cookie decorating and more! WorldsOfFun.com

Magical Night 5:00, Kearney Firehouse Community Center. Trolley tours, tree lighting, enchanted princess forest, Santa and more! 816.903.3535

Candy Cane Hunt 4:00, Holcom Park Recreation Center (Lawrence). Santa is hiding candy canes for children to find! Pre-reg at 785.832.7940.

The Great Candy Cane Hunt 5:30, Stage Coach Park. Bring flashlights to find candy canes Santa dropped in the park. $8-$10.

913.971.8563

Journey to Judea Today & tomorrow, Countryside Baptist Church. Experience the sights and sounds of God’s story. Free, but tickets required. JourneyToJudea.com

A Dickens of a Christmas Tour 5:30, Vaile Mansion. Leisurely stroll through the Victorian holiday home. Dickens characters make an appearance. 816.325.7430

Hometown Holidays and Mayor’s Tree Lighting 5:00, Downtown Liberty. Crafts for kids, photos with Santa and the annual lighting ceremony. LibertyMissouri.gov

Liberty Light Show Dec 1-2 and 7-9, Pleasant Valley Baptist Church. Christmas light display synchronized with live musicians.

LibertyLightShow.com

Holiday Luminary Walk 5:00, Overland Park Arboretum. The arboretum transforms into a wonderland of candles, music and holiday fun. $8. OPKansas.org

Road to Bethlehem 6:00, South Summit Christian Church. From the warmth of your car, enjoy live scenes that tell the Christmas story.

SouthSummitCC.org

OLATHE, KANSAS Est. 1858

Bel Canto Trio 8:00, Carlsen Center. Love opera? This concert is for you! The trio performs some of opera’s greatest arias, duets and trios.

JCCC.edu/theseries

2 Sunday Breakfast with Santa 9:00, Ceramic Café.

Savor a continental breakfast, create a clay impression, enjoy ornament painting and visit with Santa. CeramicCafeKC.com

Start your holiday season with a visit to our free

Christmas Open House Saturday, December 1 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Breakfast with Santa

Saturday, December 8 | 8:30-10:00

Mahaffie Dinners

Saturday, December 8 $49/person

Registration Required—Visit Mahaffie.org

1200 Kansas City Road Olathe, KS 54

kcparent.com december 2018

mahaffie.org 913-971-5111

Santa Visits 10:30, Family Tree Nursery (Liberty). The garden center transforms into a magical winter wonderland with decorated trees and holiday gifts. 816.781.0001 art + family = FUN 1:00, Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Join us every Saturday and Sunday for free activities for all ages! 816.751.127 Handel’s Messiah 3:30, MidAmerica Nazarene University Bell Center. MNU choirs are joined by alumni and community members and chamber orchestra. MNU.edu Festival of Lights 4:00, Powell Gardens.

Botanically-themed lighting stretches along a winding pathway through six gardens.

PowellGardens.org Twilight Tour 4:00, Bingham-Waggoner Estate. Stroll at your leisure, enjoying light, complimentary refreshments and live music.

BWEstate.net/events

3 Monday Indoor Play Park 9:00, New Century Fieldhouse. Hop, skip and jump through obstacles, bounce and kick balls, build with blocks and more! $3. 913.826.2850

Make a Mem This Holiday Seory ason UPCOMING EVENTS Breakfast with Santa – Dec. 2 Holiday Clay Party – Dec. 3 Polar Express Family Story Time – Dec. 7 Kids Night Out – Dec. 14

Moms Free Monday 9:30, Paradise Park. Moms are free at the Children’s EduTainment Center with a paid child’s admission. 816.246.5224 Dinosaurs Revealed 10:00, Union Station. Take a hands-on trek that brings you face to face with 26 life-size dinosaurs. UnionStation.org Monday Night Madness 4:00, Main Event.

Choose from three super specials, each just $10.95. Available Mondays 4:00-close.

MainEvent.com A Visit with Santa Claus 5:30, 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.

4 Tuesday Downtown Dazzle Thru Dec 31, Downtown Kansas City. All-encompassing holiday experience with something for everyone!

DazzleKC.com Jumperoo 9:00, Urban Air. A special time when entire park is open for children 5 and under with a parent. Jump, bounce and crawl!

UrbanAirTrampolinePark.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

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 Mayor’s Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony 5:30, Vesper Hall. Music, food and countdown to celebrate the Christmas season. 816.228.0181

5 Wednesday Bon Bon Portrait Session Bondurant Studios.

Don’t miss a moment! Celebrate with us all year long. Each session is $100, or purchase all 12 for $600. BondurantStudios.com Retro Story Time 10:00, Johnson County Museum. Enjoy Frosty the Snowman and an art activity for little hands. JCPRD.com/museum Santa’s Wonderland Thru Dec 24, Bass Pro Shop. Make crafts and visit Santa. Bass Pass required to see Santa; visit Bass Pass Ticket Depot in stores. BassPro.com Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical 10:00 & Noon, Coterie Theatre. Get into the Christmas spirit with a play based on the television special. TheCoterie.org

A FREE, FAMILY-FRIENDLY, DRIVE-IN CHRISTMAS LIGHT DISPLAY SYNCHRONIZED WITH LIVE MUSICIANS! Enjoy the 15-minute show featuring live performances of your Christmas favorites from the comfort of your vehicle. Parking is first-come, first-serve.

SIX LIVE PERFORMANCE DATES Friday, Nov 30 Saturday, Dec 1 Sunday, Dec 2 Friday, Dec 7 Saturday, Dec 8 Sunday, Dec 9 LIVE PERFORMANCE SHOWTIMES: 6pm • 6:45pm • 7:30pm • 8:15pm • 9pm Automated shows (without live musicians and glowsticks) will run Dec 10 through Dec 24 from 6pm to 11pm each night.

9510 Nall | 913-383-0222

CeramicCafeKC.com

HELD AT PLEASANT VALLEY BAPTIST CHURCH 1600 N. 291 Hwy. Liberty, MO 64068 Please enter from 291 Hwy./96th St.

LIBERTYLIGHTSHOW.COM kcparent.com december 2018

55

Urban Homes Tour Dec. 8, Downtown KC. Downtown’s trendiest residential properties from Crossroads Arts District to River Market open for public tours. DazzleKC.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 A Christmas Carol 1:00 & 5:00, Spencer Theatre. The KC Rep’s performance returns for its 38th season. A favorite holiday tradition!

KCRep.org

6 Thursday Toddler Time 2.0 9:30, Blue Springs Fieldhouse.

Play inside the fieldhouse on mats, scooters, slides, a bounce house and more. $2-$3.

BlueSpringsGov.com Splash with Me 10:00, Lenexa Rec Center. Kids can swim, play and become more confident in the water at the kiddie pool. $2. 913.477.7100 Pay for Play 10:00, Backyard Specialists.

Kids will enjoy our outdoor play sets that are available for open play. $2 (cash). 913.307.6023

The Pigeon Comes to Topeka Thru Jan 4, Kansas Children’s Discovery Center.

Exhibition inspired by the art and characters of Mo Willems. KansasDiscovery.org Mayor’s Christmas Tree Lighting 6:00, the View Community Center. Enjoy hot chocolate, cookies, carol performances and tree lighting. 816.316.4881 The Nutcracker Thru Dec 23, Kauffman Center.

The classic story set to Tchaikovsky’s celebrated score and wrapped with sparking costumes.

KCBallet.org

7 Friday Stock Up on Winter Reading Book Sale Today & tomorrow, Teen Commons (Olathe). Stock up on winter reading! Cash or check accepted.

OlatheLibrary.org 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.

Get next year’s Gold Pass and get unlimited visits and free parking for WinterFest 2018 Get unlimited visits and free parking in 2019

©Cedar Fair L.P., WF18-178

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Tuba Christmas Noon, Kauffman Center. Lunch hour concert to listen to the sounds of the season, tuba style! Free, but tickets required.

KCSymphony.org A Country School Christmas 1:00, Lanesfield Historic Site. Write a letter to Santa with pen and ink and create your very own ornament.

JCPRD.com Fairy Princess Thru Sunday, Kansas City Museum. Share holiday wishes with the Fairy Princess. Advance ticket purchase required.

KansasCityMuseum.org

Walk Through Bethlehem Thru Sunday, Church of the Open Door (Leavenworth). Experience an immersive tour through Bethlehem.

OpenDoorInfo.org/wtb

Holiday Wonderland Celebration 6:00, NKC Parks & Recreation Center. Games, holiday crafts and cookie decorating are on the docket. Prereg at NKC.org.

Breakfast with Santa 8:00, Johnson County Fairgrounds (Green Building). Spend a morning with your family at the North Pole! Pre-reg at GardnerKansas.gov.

Holiday Lights & Festive Sights 5:00, Sylvester Powell Community Center. A night of fun for all ages. Santa, balloon artists, hot chocolate and more! 913.722.8200

Maker’s Market Thru Sunday, Culture House (Oak Park Mall Studio). Shop for hand-crafted gifts by local artisans. CultureHouse.com

Breakfast with Santa 8:30, Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm. Enjoy the holiday decorations of the Heritage Center while you eat pancakes with Santa. Pre-reg at Mahaffie.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

Liberty Light Show Thru Sunday, Pleasant Valley Baptist Church. Christmas light display synchronized with live musicians.

LibertyLightShow.com Road to Bethlehem Thru Sunday, Red Bridge Baptist Church. A walk-through experience that looks at the true meaning of Christmas. Pre-reg at RedBridgeBaptist.com.

A Winter’s Tale in Words and Song 8:00, Carlsen Center. Wintertime story will touch your heart and tickle your funny bone. JCCC.edu/theseries

8 Saturday

Elf Night 6:00, Summit Fair. Cookies and cocoa, crafts, free visits and photos with Buddy the Elf and a showing of the movie!

SummitFairShopping.com

Breakfast with Santa 8:00, Carolyn’s Country Cousins. Enjoy a country pancake breakfast, photos with Santa, cookie decorating and more! 816.781.9196

Holiday Luminary Walk 5:00, Overland Park Arboretum. The arboretum transforms into a wonderland of candles, music and holiday fun. $8. OPKansas.org

Holiday Open House 8:00, Louisburg Cider Mill. Enjoy tasty samples, festive music and the wonderful smells of the holidays as you shop.

LouisburgCiderMill.com

Breakfast with Santa 8:30, Community Building (Lawrence). Join Santa for a meal and holiday arts and crafts. Pre-reg at LawrenceKS.org.

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.

A Christmas Celebration 9:00, Missouri Town 1855. Enjoy warm hearth fires, delicious food, period music, piping hot cider and more.

816.229.8980 Brunch with Santa 9:30, Earnest Shepherd Memorial Youth Center. Photos with the Big Guy as well as gifts, fun crafts and more.

EarnestShepherd.com

Be the reason someone smiles this season!

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Walk-ins welcome.

Reservations recommended.

May be combined with daily 1/2 price studio fee offers only.

Good thru 12/31/18.

KCP

paintglazeandfire.net 127th & Metcalf • Overland Park, KS 913-661-CLAY kcparent.com december 2018

57

Under the Streetlamp Hip to the Holidays!

Dec. 8, Carlsen Center. A joyous performance of favorite holiday tunes.

JCCC.edu/theseries

Santa Visits 10:30, Family Tree Nursery (Overland Park). The garden center transforms into a magical winter wonderland with decorated trees and holiday gifts. 913.642.6503

Urban Homes Tour 10:00, Downtown KC. Downtown’s trendiest residential properties from Crossroads Arts District to River Market open for public tours. DazzleKC.com Winter Wreath Workshop 10:00, Martha Lafite Thompson Nature Sanctuary. Create the perfect holiday wreath. Please call to register at 816.781.8598.

Brunch with Santa 10:00, Vesper Hall. Enjoy a festive holiday brunch with family, friends and Santa! Pre-reg at BlueSpringsGov.com.

Holiday Marketplace 10:00, Roeland Park Community Center. Enjoy a visit from Santa, holiday crafts and a special shopping experience. 913.826.3161 Santa’s Express and Country Christmas 10:00, National Agricultural Center and Hall of Fame.

Ride the Union Pacific train and see Santa.

AgHallOfFame.com

Santa Land Christmas 11:00 & 2:00, Puppetry Arts Institute. Join Santa and Mrs Claus in a festive show of music, stories and holiday merriment. 816.833.9777 Cookies and Photos with Santa & Mrs Claus Noon, Atkins-Johnson Farm & Museum.

Enjoy cider, cookies and photos with Santa.

816.423.4107

Clara’s Dream Today & tomorrow, Olathe South Performing Arts Center. A beautiful adaptation of the classical Nutcracker ballet. MillerMarley.org

A Kansas City Christmas Today & tomorrow, Lenexa Baptist Church. Enjoy Christmas music featuring the LBC choir and orchestra, followed by dessert buffet. LenexaBaptist.com

Night Before Christmas at the Museum 2:00, National Frontier Trails Museum. Learn about the history of Christmas at this holiday event.

816.325.7575

Under the Streetlamp Hip to the Holidays!

2:00 & 8:00, Carlsen Center. A joyous performance of favorite holiday tunes.

JCCC.edu/theseries

Selfies with Santa 3:00, Lee’s Summit History Museum. Get a photo taken with Santa while he visits Downtown Lee’s Summit.

DowntownLS.org

A KANSAS CITY CHRISTMAS FREE TO THE PUBLIC • DESSERT BUFFET INCLUDED • CHILDCARE PROVIDED (ages 3 & under)

December 8, 2018 | 1:00PM & 5:00PM December 9, 2018 | 5:00PM

MORNING AT THE MANGER

Join us for a special event designed for preschoolers and their families! Activities include a live petting zoo, ornament making, cookie decorating and a carpenters shop.

December 15, 2018 | 10:00AM

CHRISTMAS EVE EVE & CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICES COMMUNION AND CANDLELIGHT SERVICES

December 23, 2018 | 5:00PM

•

December 24, 2018 | 3:00PM, 5:00PM & 11:00PM

lenexabaptist.com • 913.599.6447 • 15320 W. 87th St. Pkwy | Lenexa, KS 66219

58

kcparent.com december 2018

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

Cocoa & Cookies with Santa 6:00, Aldersgate United Methodist Church. Enjoy a Whovillethemed party with Santa, cookies and more!

816.537.7233

My Snowman Is Smiling 9:30, Corinth Library.

Storyteller Jo Ho shares wintry fun stories of the winter friend—the snowman.

JoColibrary.org

9 Sunday

10 Monday

An Extraordinary Ordinary Night 8:00, 9:30, 11:00 & 6:00, Colonial Presbyterian Church (Overland Park). A Nativity story told through music and song. ColonialKC.org

Splash with Me 10:00, Lenexa Rec Center. Kids can swim, play and become more confident in the water at the kiddie pool. $2. 913.477.7100

Indoor Playground 9:30, Sylvester Powell Community Center. A safe, clean indoor play area for kids 6 years and under. $2/child.

913.722.8200

Day in the Life 10:00, National World War I Museum and Memorial. Interactive presentation that gives a sense of stepping back in time. TheWorldWar.org Santa Visits 10:30, Family Tree Nursery (Shawnee). The garden center transforms into a magical winter wonderland with decorated trees and holiday gifts. 913.631.6121 Meet the Experts 2:00, National Museum of Toys and Miniatures. Relive Christmases past while exploring the toys collected by one man.

816.235.8000 Winterfest 5:00, Worlds of Fun. Sparkling lights transform the park that features live shows, holiday characters and activities, cookie decorating and more! WorldsOfFun.com

Polar Express Pajama Party 12:30, 3:00, 5:30 & 8:00, Union Station. Come dressed in your pajamas and enjoy the show on the big screen.

UnionStation.org Monday Night Madness 4:00, Main Event.

Choose from three super specials, each just $10.95. Available Mondays 4:00-close.

MainEvent.com A Joyful Christmas 7:30, Folly Theater. Piano sensation Jim Brickman celebrates A Joyful Christmas at the Folly Theater. FollyTheater.org

11 Tuesday Jumperoo 9:00, Urban Air. A special time when entire park is open for children 5 and under with a parent. Jump, bounce and crawl!

UrbanAirTrampolinePark.com

Creative Story Time 10:30, Ceramic Café. Hear a story, create a pottery piece and enjoy a simple snack. $12. CeramicCafe.com Holiday Sing-Along 3:30, St Paul’s United Methodist Church (Raymore). Get a lesson from a local instructor and sing favorite Christmas carols. Raymore.com

12 Wednesday Christmas Critters 10:00, Martha Lafite Thompson Nature Sanctuary. Learn about animals found in the songs and stories of Christmastime. Pre-reg at 816.781.8598.

Open Gym Noon, Integrity Gymnastics. A great time to practice, get familiar with the gym and for kids to release energy. $6. IntegrityOP.com

kcparent.com december 2018

59

what’s your

DECEMBER KC IQ?

test your local smarts with this quiz 1. In 1935, as Kline’s Department Store

2. Christmas cards are a holiday

of downtown Kansas City prepared to celebrate the grand opening of their Toyland, they decided to introduce the Fairy Princess in lieu of Santa. Children visited her, shared their holiday wishes and received a prize. Now, she may be visited at the Kansas City Museum at the Historic Garment District. How much did it cost to visit the princess in 1935?

A) 25 Cents C) 10 Cents

tradition with KC roots. What year did J.C. Hall come to Kansas City to sell cards out of a shoebox?

A) 1925 B) 1938 C) 1920 D) 1910

B) 50 Cents D) 15 Cents

3. How tall is the

4. Kansas City is known to have a white

Legends Outlet’s legendary holiday tree?

Christmas once every five years. The deepest Christmas snow in the city occurred 100 years ago. How deep was that 1918 accumulation?

A) 50 Feet B) 100 Feet C) 45 Feet D) 75 Feet

A) 7 Inches C) 8 Inches

B) 10 Inches D) 12 Inches

5. You can see a 30-foottall Coca-Cola Santa at Worlds of Fun’s WinterFest.

What decade did the soft

drink brand begin to use Santa in their holiday marketing?

6. The oldest merchant on the

B) 1920s D) 1950s

5. B) 1920s 4. B) 10 Inches 3. C) 45 Feet 2. D) 1910 1. A) 25 Cents

ANSWER KEY:

A) 1930s C) 1940s

6. A) 1950

A) 1950 B) 1955 C) 1960 D) 1962

Country Club Plaza is also one of the most popular for holiday gifts. Originally opened in 1948 as Patsy’s, the business was later sold and renamed Topsy’s.

Famous for delicious popcorn served in holiday tins, Topsy’s began operating in Kansas City under their now-famous name in what year?

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

Kid’s Night Out 6:00, Ceramic Café. Create with clay and paint an ornament. Includes pizza and dessert. CeramicCafeKC.com

Santa’s Wonderland 2:00, the Bay. Spend the afternoon celebrating with festive music, hot chocolate, goodies, sleigh rides and Santa.

816.965.9218

A Christmas Carol 7:00, Spencer Theatre. The KC Rep’s performance returns for its 38th season.

A favorite holiday tradition! KCRep.org

Middle School Teen Night 7:00, Paradise Park. For $20 get unlimited play on a variety of adventure attractions, a $5 fun card and a personal pizza. Paradise-Park.com

13 Thursday

15 Saturday

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

Winter Wonderland Today & tomorrow, Kansas City Zoo. The penguins venture outside for a march. Guests also see Santa dive with penguins. KansasCityZoo.org

Small Plates and Entertaining 6:00, Jo Co K-State Extension. Learn unique food options made with everyday ingredients. Ages 18+. Prereg at 913.715.7000.

Wreaths Across America 10:00, National World War I Museum and Memorial. Wreath-laying ceremony to remember the fallen and honor those who serve. TheWorldWar.org

Celebrate the Holiday Season 6:30, MCPL (Riverside). Let’s celebrate the holidays! Join us as we read stories, sing and celebrate. Pre-reg at MyMCPL.org.

Morning at the Manger 10:00, Lenexa Baptist Church. Enjoy a petting zoo, ornament making, cookie decorating and a carpenters shop.

LenexaBaptist.com

Father Christmas Comes to T/M 1:00, National Museum of Toys and Miniatures. Father Christmas comes to the museum to share stories of holidays past. 816.235.8000

Civic Band Christmas Concert 7:30, MidAmerica Nazarene University. Enjoy holiday classics and fun arrangements of songs and carols. 913.908.9559

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

Trombone Christmas 11:00, Union Station.

Enjoy the sounds of the holidays as played on trombones! Free. UnionStation.org/ TromboneChristmasKC

The Nutcracker Thru Dec 23, Kauffman Center.

The classic story set to Tchaikovsky’s celebrated score and wrapped with sparking costumes.

KCBallet.org

Santa Land Christmas 11:00 & 2:00, Puppetry Arts Institute. Join Santa and Mrs Claus in a festive show of music, stories and holiday merriment. 816.833.9777

A Neighborhood Noel 2:30, Main Street Theater (Belton). Charming new Christmas story to share with your family. MainStreetTheaterBelton.com

14 Friday Kansas City Southern Holiday Express Thru Dec 18, Union Station. Visit with Santa and his elves and tour the inside of three cars of the festive train. UnionStation.org A Country School Christmas Today & tomorrow, Lanesfield Historic Site. Write a letter to Santa with pen and ink and create your very own ornament. JoCoGov.org Fairy Princess Thru Sunday, Kansas City Museum. Share holiday wishes with the Fairy Princess. Advance ticket purchase required.

KansasCityMuseum.org Candy Land Christmas 4:00, Downtown Smithville. Visit Santa and then grab a Candy Land map for adventures through downtown businesses. 816.532.0946 Canes, Cocoa and Claus 5:30, Shawnee Indian Mission Museum. Bring a flashlight to hunt for candy canes. After, enjoy hot cocoa and a craft.

913.262.0867 The Holly and the Ivy Thru Sunday, Culture House Stage and Studio (Oak Park). An evening of Christmas music performed by some of KC’s best musicians. CultureHouse.com

Santa Splash Noon, Indoor Aquatics Center (Lawrence). Enjoy ornament making, stocking decorating and a visit from Santa. Pre-reg at LawrenceKS.org.

Father Christmas 2:00, Midwest Genealogy Center. Learn about traditions from long ago and how they affect Christmas celebrations of today. Ages 6+. Pre-reg at MyMCPL.org.

Selfies with Santa 2:00, Lee’s Summit History Museum. Get a photo taken with Santa while he visits downtown Lee’s Summit.

DowntownLS.org Skate with Santa 2:00, Line Creek Community Center. Enjoy an afternoon on ice with Santa.

816.513.0760 Adult & Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED Training 2:00, the Jewish Community Center. An American Red Cross blended learning course.

Ages 15+. Pre-reg at TheJKC.org.

Elves Workshop Today & tomorrow, Martha Lafite Thompson Nature Sanctuary. Face painting, treats, crafts, small mall, Santa and more! 816.781.8598 Christmas in the Village 3:00, the Pavilion at John Knox Village. Enjoy Lee’s Summit Symphony’s holiday concert. LSSymphony.org/season-events A Charlie Brown Christmas Today & tomorrow, Lee’s Summit West HS Performing Arts Center.

The holiday classic comes to life on stage.

LSWTheatre.com

16 Sunday

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

CrownCenter.com Downtown Dazzle Thru Dec 31, Downtown Kansas City. All-encompassing holiday experience with something for everyone!

DazzleKC.com The Pigeon Comes to Topeka Thru Jan 4, Kansas Children’s Discovery Center. Exhibition inspired by the art and characters of Mo Willems. KansasDiscovery.org

18 Tuesday Santa’s Wonderland Thru Dec 24, Bass Pro Shop. Make crafts and visit Santa. Bass Pass required to see Santa; visit Bass Pass Ticket Depot in stores. BassPro.com

kcparent.com december 2018

61

Noon Year’s Eve Dec. 31, Science City. Welcome 2019 with family activities in a safe, kid-friendly environment. UnionStation.org

Polar Express Pajama Party 12:30, 3:00, 5:30 & 8:00, Union Station. Come dressed in your pajamas and enjoy the show on the big screen.

UnionStation.org Flashlight Candy Cane Hunt 5:30, Cornerstone Park (Gardner). Grab a flashlight and search for hidden candy canes. Pre-reg at GardnerKansas.gov.

Flick with St Nick 6:00, Johnson County Fairgrounds (Green Building). See Santa and Mrs Claus! Bring a sleeping bag and watch a movie. 913.856.8860 A Visit with Santa Claus 6:30, MCPL (North Oak). Get in the Christmas spirit with a story from Santa, then make a simple craft to take home. Pre-reg at MyMCPL.org.

Bedtime Stories 7:00, Olathe Indian Creek Library. Bring the family, wear your pajamas and relax with bedtime-themed stories and songs.

Free. 913.971.6833

19 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 Open Gym Noon, Integrity Gymnastics.

A great time to practice, get familiar with the gym and for kids to release energy. $6.

IntegrityOP.com Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical 2:00 & 4:00, Coterie Theatre. Get into the Christmas spirit with a play based on the television special. TheCoterie.org

20 Thursday Winter Break Camp Today & tomorrow, Lenexa Rec Center. Spend break being active, creating, splashing in the pool and more.

Lenexa.com/getactive

HAVING A BABY SOON? Check out KC Parent’s Interactive Virtual Hospital Labor & Delivery Guide at KCParent.com

Our interactive virtual Hospital Labor & Delivery Guide has images, complete descriptions, video, social media links and much more.

SEARCH HOSPITALS BY: LOCATION | NICU LEVEL | CLASSES OFFERED

62

kcparent.com december 2018

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 Playdate Thursdays 11:00, Children’s Play Area (Independence Center). Fun, free monthly events for kids! Move, learn, create and connect.

816.795.8602 Festival of Lights 4:00, Powell Gardens.

Botanically-themed lighting stretches along a winding pathway through six gardens.

PowellGardens.org

21 Friday 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.

Liberty Light Show 6:00, Pleasant Valley Baptist Church. Enjoy family fun at this 15-minute automated Christmas light show.

LibertyLightShow.com

23 Sunday

25 Tuesday Christmas Day Merry Christmas from KC Parent!

Thanks to the Kansas City community for 33 years of readership and support!

Winterfest 5:00, Worlds of Fun. Sparkling lights transform the park that features live shows, holiday characters and activities, cookie decorating and more! WorldsOfFun.com

Farmers Market 8:00, City Market. The market features a mix of dining, shopping and entertainment in an open air setting.

816.842.1271

Little Drummer Boy 7:00, Sprint Center. Twotime Grammy Award-winning duo For King & Country performs fan-favorite Christmas carols.

SprintCenter.com

art + family = FUN 1:00, Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Join us every Saturday and Sunday for free activities for all ages! 816.751.127

Day Camp Thru Dec 28, Code Ninjas. Come for one day or all three! Activities including coding, game-building, robotics and creative thinking.

Pre-reg at CodeNinjas.com

The Nutcracker 1:00 & 5:00, Kauffman Center.

The classic story set to Tchaikovsky’s celebrated score and wrapped with sparkling costumes.

KCBallet.org

Kids Day Out Thru Dec 28, Jo Co Arts & Heritage Center. Have fun when school is out!

Kids participate in a variety of activities. $30.

Pre-reg at JCPRD.com/museum.

24 Monday

Winter Break Camp Thru Dec 28, Lenexa Rec Center. Spend break being active, creating, splashing in the pool and more.

Lenexa.com/getactive

22 Saturday Santa Day 11:00, Louisburg Cider Mill. Santa Claus visits. Come visit to tell Jolly Ole St Nick all the last-minute wishes! LouisburgCiderMill.com An Olde World Christmas Noon, Strawberry Hill Museum. The museum presents ethnic traditions and customs from around the world. $5-$10. 913.371.3264 Winter Solstice Celebration 4:30, Ernie Miller.

Take a break from the busy holidays and walk through the woods lit by luminaries. $6-$8.

913.826.2800

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

The KC Rep’s performance returns for its 38th season. A favorite holiday tradition! KCRep.org Christmas Eve Services 3:00, 5:00 & 11:00, Lenexa Baptist Church. Start your celebration with a candlelight service. LenexaBaptist.com

26 Wednesday

Toddler Time 10:00, Sky Zone. A time for little ones to bounce under the supervision of their parents and without interference from the big kids. SkyZone.com

kcparent.com december 2018

63

Feathered Friends 10:00, Anita B Gorman Center. Learn how to identify common backyard birds, go on a birding hike and make a bird feeder. 816.759.7300

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

CrownCenter.com

27 Thursday

Festival of Lights 4:00, Powell Gardens.

Botanically-themed lighting stretches along a winding pathway through six gardens.

PowellGardens.org

Winter Jamboree 10:30, MCPL (North Oak).

Come prepared to sing, dance and have fun as we rock the library with Mr Stinky Feet. Pre-reg at MyMCPL.org.

30 Sunday Downtown Dazzle Thru Dec 31, Downtown Kansas City. All-encompassing holiday experience with something for everyone! DazzleKC.com A Christmas Carol 1:00, Spencer Theatre. The KC Rep’s performance returns for its 38th season.

A favorite holiday tradition! KCRep.org

29 Saturday

Winterfest 5:00, Worlds of Fun. Sparkling lights transform the park that features live shows, holiday characters and activities, cookie decorating and more! WorldsOfFun.com

Dinosaurs Revealed 10:00, Union Station. Take a hands-on trek that brings you face to face with 26 life-size dinosaurs. UnionStation.org Holiday Nature Crafts Noon, Burr Oak Woods. Craft up some fun using nature-made materials! Drop in and make two crafts. Free.

816.228.3766

Theater from Head to Toe 6:00, Oak Park Library. Learn to command voice and body on stage through a series of fun games and exercises. Ages K-5. JoCoLibrary.org

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

Comedy City at Culture House 7:00, Culture House Stage & Studio (Oak Park Mall). Five of the funniest improvisers create hilarious sketches. $10. CultureHouse.com

The Pigeon Comes to Topeka Thru Jan 4, Kansas Children’s Discovery Center. Exhibition inspired by the art and characters of Mo Willems. KansasDiscovery.org

31 Monday

New Year’s Eve

A Country School Christmas 1:00, Lanesfield Historic Site. Write a letter with pen and ink and create your very own ornament. JoCoGov.org

28 Friday

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical 2:00 & 4:00, Coterie Theatre. Enjoy the Christmas spirit with a play based on the television special. TheCoterie.org

Zoo Year’s Eve 10:00, Kansas City Zoo. Ring in the new year at the zoo! See animals with enrichment items, dance to tunes from DJ and more. KansasCityZoo.org Noon Year’s Eve Noon, Science City. Welcome 2019 with family activities in a safe, kid-friendly environment. UnionStation.org New Year’s Eve Party Noon, Paradise Park. Ring in 2019 early with the legendary ball drop in the Foam Factory. Early-evening, kid-friendly party. Paradise-Park.com

THE HONOR OF THY PRESENCE IS HEREBY REQUESTED AT THE 10TH ANNUAL

Daddy Daughter Dance PRINCESS BALL

Friday February

8th

6-9 pm

&

Saturday February

9th

5-8 pm

Providence Community Church in Lenexa

WITH SPECIAL GUESTS

Cinderella & Belle

PRICE INCLUDES JACK STACK & CHICK-FIL-A DINNER

EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT TILL 1/10/19 IS $65 PER COUPLE. AFTER JAN. 10TH, $75 PER COUPLE.

+

A PROFESSIONAL PHOTO

PROCEEDS WILL BENEFIT LOCAL AND GLOBAL MISSIONS

EVENT ALWAYS SELLS OUT! BUY TICKETS AT WWW.SOVGRACEKC.ORG/DANCE

64

kcparent.com december 2018

ow t i n ct N I t Ex e S e e I t ’s r o f Be Touch Real Dinosaur Bones!

™

Complete Details @ UnionStation.org

See Rudy & Santa FREE 12.31.18

Noon-7 pm

ALL ABOARD the heated

KC Southern Holiday Express Train through Rudy’s Winter Wonderland • Union Station, December 14 - 18 • See Santa and his elves • Treat the kids to mini-train rides

Give the Gift

of Union Station Membership!

Event parking rates apply.

For complete and up-to-date details:

UnionStation.org

Science Demos • Science Stage Show Maker Activities • HUGE Balloon Drop

& MORE!

S CIENCE C ITY.COM Avoid the line Preorder your tickets today!

Regular admission rates apply. FREE for Union Station Members.

Explore

Kansas City Zoo December 1 & 2 Meet Santa at the Zoo Santa Dives with Penguins Gentoo and King Penguin March December 8 & 9 Santa Dives with Penguins Gentoo and King Penguin March December 15 & 16 Winter Wonderland Santa Dives with Penguins Gentoo and King Penguin March December 29 & 30 Gentoo and King Penguin March December 31 Zoo Year’s Eve

SANTA DIVES WITH PENGUINS WEEKENDS THROUGH DEC. 16

Always a New Adventure!

Open Year Round 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.

NOV. 22 -- DEC. 31 Build memories for a lifetime during Downtown Kansas City’s all-encompassing holiday experience, a tradition five years running that features five festive neighborhoods and something for everyone, including tours of trendy, urban homes, exclusive shopping offers with the Dazzling Deals booklet and other seasonal sights and sounds full of winter cheer.

DazzleKC.com • #DazzleKC

Give Mercy Your donation strengthens.

Every gift you make brings hope and comfort to the children and families we serve, regardless of their ability to pay. You can Give Mercy to help strengthen our patients.

GiveMercyKC.org