KC Parent December 2021 by KC Parent Magazine

FREE | December 2021 | KCParent.com | Since 1985

PARENT M A YE A R S

35 KC

Z I NE

HOW TO TALK TO KIDS ABOUT DISABILITIES

–2 0

HOLLY JOLLY FUN! SWEET TREATS

COPING WITH CHANGE

CHRISTMAS COUNTDOWN GIVE GIFTS OF EXPERIENCES

YOUR LOVE WILL STOP AT NOTHING TO KEEP HER HEART BEATING.

Ziah was born with half a heart. Thanks to an at-home heart monitoring app invented by Children’s Mercy, her parents enjoy these smiles every day. It’s another way that love drives lifesaving innovations to give families more moments just like this. Learn how your LOVE WILL help more kids by giving today at childrensmercy.org/lovewill.

When you have this card, your Library never closes. Get access to knowledge, research and entertainment with your Johnson County Library card.

What will you discover? • 24/7 access to eBooks, eAudiobooks, eMagazines, eNewspapers, and streaming video and music

• Access Consumer Reports for trusted

product reviews and recommendations

• Live online tutoring available for students of all ages

And so much more!

Explorers Check out our new card designs!

Discover what’s possible Visit us online at jocolibrary.org/discover

DECEMBER

2021

IN EVERY ISSUE 10 Date Night 12 Media Mix 14 5 Things 16 Ask the Experts 17 Word from Dad

THE HOLIDAYS GUIDE, PGS. 40-53

18 Dear Teachers 20 Tasty Treats 41 Craft Corner

FEATURES SPECIAL SECTIONS 30 Party Guide 40 The Holidays Guide 54 Calendar of Events

Home Alone?

Disabilities

Holiday Calendar

Guidelines for leaving your

Conversation starters for

Enjoy 11 pages of the

child home alone.

talking about disabilities.

best holiday events in KC!

Our cover features Huntley from Kansas City. Photo by Melissa Rieke Photography. MelissaRiekePhotography.com FREE | December 2021 | KCParent.com | Since 1985

PARENT M A YE A R S

Z I NE

ON THE COVER

kcparent.com december 2021

34 38 40 46 49 52

Coping with Change Talking About Disabilities The Holidays Guide Christmas Countdown Sweet Treats Give Gifts of Experiences

HOW TO TALK TO KIDS ABOUT DISABILITIES

–2 0

HOLLY JOLLY FUN! SWEET TREATS

COPING WITH CHANGE

CHRISTMAS COUNTDOWN GIVE GIFTS OF EXPERIENCES

Open Year Round kansascityzoo.org 816.595.1234

Gift a Membership!

FREE penguin plush with any gift FOTZ Premier Family membership purchase. Visit our website for details.

SWAMP MONKEYS RETURN!

Penguin Marches Are Back! November 26 - February 27 11:00am | Weekends only See our penguins up close as they take a stroll in front of Helzberg Penguin Plaza.

EDITOR’SLETTER DECEMBER 2021

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Editor Margaret Sarver Margaret@KCParent.com Art Director Kim Tappan Tappan Design Kim@KCParent.com Advertising Sales Darrell Dean Darrell@KCParent.com Digital Media Manager Kristina Light Kristina@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

Mailing Address 11936 W. 119th #335, Overland Park, KS 66213 913.782.3238 phone • 913.681.5139 fax OUR PRODUCTS FREE | December 2021 | KCParent.com | Since 1985

kansas city’s #1 travel guide since 2010

baby&

SINCE 2002

PARENT M A YE A R S

CHRISTMAS COUNTDOWN

GO I NG PL YE A R S

10 KC

maternity

OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2021 | KCPARENT.COM

AZINE

Y BA B & MA YE A R S T

20 KC

SWEET TREATS

AZINE

support a family with a baby in

NICU

637

ways to calm a fussy baby

UNFORGETTABLE ATTRACTIONS

miserable with

morning sickness?

GIVE GIFTS OF EXPERIENCES

(check out our tips inside!)

COPING WITH CHANGE

kcgoingplaces.com

NITY

HOLLY JOLLY FUN!

HOW TO TALK TO KIDS ABOUT DISABILITIES

–2 0

WEEKEND GETAWAY EXPLORING DOWNTOWN

LOVE IS IN THE AIR GREAT DATES

GEMS OF KANSAS CITY LANDMARKS LOCALS LOVE

babyproofing 101

Facebook.com/KansasCityParent Pinterest.com/KCParent @KCParent

Member of:

KC PARENT IS GIVING AWAY

LOCAL CONTENT

Kim Antisdel (Liberty), Bill Bartlett (Belton), Hannah Berry (Kansas City), Julie Collett (Overland Park), Janelle Cumro-Sultzer (Overland Park), Lauren Dreher (Stillwell), Sandy Foster (Grain Valley), Allison Gibeson (Lee’s Summit), Judy Goppert (Lee’s Summit), Lauren Greenlee (Olathe), Christa Melnyk Hines (Olathe), Gina Klein (Kansas City), Kristina Light (Kansas City), Sarah Lyons (Olathe), Jessica Samuel (Kansas City)

Z I NE

Merry Christmas, Kansas City!

Associate Publisher Darrell Dean Darrell@KCParent.com

Publisher Michael Gimotty Michael@KCParent.com

.com

Every Monday in December, KCParent.com is giving away

think a lot of parents will nod their heads in agreement when I say that kids often receive too much during the holidays. Whether it’s too many presents or too many sweet treats, there seems to be an overload of stuff during the holidays. When my girls were young, I tried to monitor things by telling wellmeaning relatives that they really only needed to buy one or two gifts for the girls, but that didn’t always work. Often, my two would receive so much that after Christmas I would collect all the gifts, leaving out only a few for them to play with, and put the bulk in my closet. Then throughout the next few months, I’d bring out a new toy or two when the winter doldrums were setting in. This helped to extend the girls’ enjoyment of the haul. It can be difficult to limit stuff during a time when there’s an overabundance of stuff, but local mom Kim Antisdel has some great ideas on how to avoid overload on pg. 50. And our 14-page holiday guide, starting on pg. 40, has tons more great ideas on how to make your season more merry and less stressful! When my younger was a baby and toddler, she didn’t enjoy my leaving her places without me—and she let me know it! Whether it was the nursery at church or the playroom at the gym, she wasn’t having it. Even though I knew she was fine and in good hands, it was hard to walk away when I could hear her crying and asking for me. Spoiler alert: They get over this real fast when they are teens! But, when you’re in the thick of it, it can be hard! Check out “Drama-Free Drop-Offs” on pg. 24 to help make drop-offs go more smoothly.

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Margaret Sarver, Editor

Kansas City Parent Magazine is published 12 times a year by Family Media Group. It is distributed free of charge throughout the Kansas City area. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect KC Parent’s opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written permission. Kansas City Parent Magazine does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. All photography and letters sent to KC Parent will be treated unconditionally assigned for publication and copyright purposes and are subject to unrestricted right to edit and comment editorially. KC Parent often includes websites that may be helpful to our readers. We verify each site prior to publication. However, content changes frequently. We encourage you to use caution and discretion when visiting a website.

Postmaster, please send changes to KC Parent, 11936 W. 119th #335, Overland Park, KS 66213

kcparent.com december 2021

Kansas city City’s kansas Holiday tradition Tradition holiday

• • • • • • •

100 ft-tall Mayor’s christmas tree outdoor skating at crown center ice terrace local & unique shopping dining options for every taste santa’s gingerbread station holiday music & live theater LEGOland® discovery center and sea life aquarium

CrownCenterChristmas.com #CrownCenter | 2450 Grand Boulevard | Kansas City, MO 64108

DATES WITH LETTER Z

DATENIGHT

10 december 2021 kcparent.com

To round out the alphabet dates, check out these excellent options in honor of the letter Z. ZOCALO Zocalo is a Mexican restaurant on the Country Club Plaza. We have been here a few times and always enjoy the unique and modern spin they put on traditional Mexican dishes. We also agree it’s a good place for a date night because of their happy hour menu, which is available seven days a week from 3:00 to 6:00. Recently, we tried their mini carnitas tacos and mini Baja shrimp tacos, both of which we thoroughly enjoyed. I especially loved the beet crema on the shrimp tacos. We also shared the chicken and corn quesadillas, which were very tasty and artfully presented. We rounded out our meal with some delicious sangria. On the main menu, be sure to check out the “terrorized carrots,” which are yummy. In cooler weather, Zocalo is cozy and inviting inside, and in warmer months, the front sidewalk beckons for food and people watching.

ZOO The Kansas City Zoo is always a great choice for a date day ... or night. The zoo is open year round and has many events and fundraisers to enjoy, including the Kansas City Zoo Run, Brew at the Zoo and Jazzoo, which is their largest annual fundraiser. These events make for great dates—but going on a normal day is also a good choice, especially when the weather is cooler. We love seeing the elephants, gorillas and kangaroos, the latter of which are allowed to roam around freely. We also thoroughly enjoy watching the sea lions, penguins and polar bears. The African Sky Safari is a fun attraction as well. This sky lift ride is about seven minutes long and allows you to travel just above where the zebras, giraffes, ostriches and rhinos roam. It’s $5 per person. One thing we especially like about our zoo is being able to take our own food in a small cooler and have a picnic in the park.

WE BOUGHT A ZOO We had seen We Bought a Zoo once before, but we liked it so much the first time we decided to get it from the library for another showing. The 2011 film is based loosely on a 2008 memoir of the same name and stars Matt Damon and Scarlett Johansson. It tells the story of young widower Benjamin Mee (played by Damon) who decides he and his family need a fresh start, so he moves them out to 18 acres in the countryside to renovate and reopen a wildlife park. Johansson plays head zookeeper Kelly Foster and is still just as charming as ever. This is definitely a feelgood film: satisfying, simple and somewhat predictable. Plus, this movie has one of my favorite quotes: “You know, sometimes all you need is 20 seconds of insane courage. Just literally 20 seconds of just embarrassing bravery. And I promise you, something great will come of it.” Yep. What he said. Hannah Berry is a freelance writer who lives in the Northland with her husband. They love to explore Kansas City and try new restaurants and activities.

FOR GREAT DATE NIGHT IDEAS STARTING WITH A-Y, HEAD TO KCPARENT.COM!

A D VE R TO R I A L

Maur Hill-Mount Academy We are College Prep, We are Boarding and We are Catholic %

university/college acceptance rate

National Merit Students since 2014

Felt prepared for college academically

Public School Student

Private Day Student

average ACT

Boarding Student

1210 average SAT

More likely to earn an advanced degree:

Public School Student

Private Day Student

Boarding Student

Average College Credits Earned

Scholarships years earned Class of 2018 - $153,811 per student Class of 2019 - $128,232 per student Class of 2020 - $135,284 per student

#2 Catholic School in Kansas

2017-2020 University Acceptances

*Top 200 Global Universities Rankings by U.S. News & World Report Oregon State University American University Arizona State University* Pennsylvania State University* Ave Maria University Purdue University* Saint Louis University Benedictine College Savannah College of Art & Design California College of the Arts School of Visual Arts - New York City Creighton University Culinary Institute of America Stony Brook University* Syracuse University Denison University Drake University Texas A&M University* University of Alabama - Birmingham* Drexel University Florida Gulf Coast University University of Arizona* University of California - Davis* Grand Canyon University University of California - Irvine* Indiana University - Bloomington* University of California - San Diego* Iowa State University Kansas State University University of California - Santa Cruz* University of Colorado - Boulder* Loyola University Chicago Massachusetts College University of Kansas University of Massachusetts* of Pharmacy & Health Sciences New York University* University of Michigan* University of Notre Dame Ohio University

University of Washington - Seattle* Virginia Polytechnic Institute & State University Washington & Lee University

Universities Outside of U.S.

Monterrey Institute of Technology & Higher Education - Mexico University of Toronto - Canada* University of Vancouver - Canada Blanquerna University - Spain Florence Design Academy - Italy Poznan University of Medical Science - Poland Sapienza University of Rome - Italy* University of Navarra - Spain City University of Hong Kong* Sim University - Singapore University of Auckland - New Zealand* Waseda University - Japan

MEDIAMIX

Your Future Is Bright Written by Corey Finkle, illustrated by Shelley Couvillion Follow along as a group of children dream of becoming painters, authors, rock stars and so much more! Offering an encouraging message for kids, similar to Oh, The Places You’ll Go, Your Future Is Bright shares how, with passion, dedication and hard work, children can become anything they put their minds to. “Amazing adventures are coming to you, and people are eager to see what you’ll do. Your future is waiting. Which path will you choose? There’s no way to know ... but there are a few clues.” Told in lyrical rhyming verse and accompanied by beautiful watercolor illustrations, the book emboldens children to dream and do their best. “Don’t ever stop dreaming, and set your sights high! Tomorrow will come in the blink of an eye. So follow your instincts to do what feels right ... And you can be sure that your future is bright.”

I Promise

Bear Can’t Wait

Written by LeBron James, illustrated by Nina Mata

Written by Karma Wilson, illustrated by Jane Chapman

LeBron James’s debut picture book, I Promise, is based upon the inspirational pledge foundational to the I Promise School he started in 2018 in Akron, OH. The book follows a diverse group of children as they make important promises for their lives, such as being resilient, being open to trying new things, being humble and always working hard and doing their best. “I promise to ask questions and find answers, to believe in next time and second chances.” This uplifting book is a #1 New York Times bestseller, an Amazon Best Book of the Year, a Barnes and Noble Best Book of the Year and an Indie Bestseller. Mata’s vibrant illustrations are captivating. She is a New York Times bestselling illustrator as well as a Geisel Honor Winner. This is an inspiring book for school children, both in the classroom and out.

Since the first Bear book was published (Bear Snores On) in 2002, fans have been following along with Bear and his friends. Now, 19 years later, there are more than a million Bear books in print! And this one is yet another that will delight Bear fans everywhere. The book begins, “On a bright, sunny day, Bear paces to and fro. He fusses and he fidgets. Why is time so slow?” Poor Bear has been planning his friend’s birthday party for weeks, and it’s been difficult for him to wait. Little ones will empathize with Bear if they’ve ever had trouble being patient while waiting for their own special event. Unfortunately, all the party planning and preparations end up ruined because of Bear’s impatience. Bear and his friends work together quickly and pull off the party as planned. Whew! Bear is very thankful to have such good friends.

Sandy Foster is a writer and blogger (NadinesBakery.com) who lives in the Kansas City area.

12 december 2021 kcparent.com

SEASONS OF

View our SEAsons of Wonder activities happening from November 24-December 31 and purchase tickets at:

wondersofwildlife.org/seasons

DON’T MISS

SCUBA .

Claus

DIVING AT WONDERS OF WILDLIFE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON!

FIVETHINGS

Mad Libs

Create On My husband is a big fan of the Grateful Dead. It’s not really my type of music, but I’ve learned to appreciate through the years (and I even attended their very last show as the Grateful Dead in Chicago). I was intrigued when I received an email about a product for kids featuring the Grateful Dead but am here to tell you, it’s a great way to teach younger kids about an older generation’s music—and yes, I’m in the “older” category. But if the GD isn’t your thing, not to worry! Their Magna Tiles come in so many themes, from Sesame Street to Eric Carle to the Grateful Dead. They allow for creativity and make a great gift! CreateOn.com

Let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a Mad Lib? They are some good fun for kids of all ages! Not too long ago I found a Mad Lib book, and my teens and I had a blast and laughed ourselves silly. My sister happened to be in town with her grade school aged kids, and we spent hours doing Mad Libs with them, too, so it just makes sense that a Mad Lib book or two make the perfect gift. They have so many themes to choose from, and I’m excited about the Christmas Card Mad Libs. I hope my family is ready to receive some hilarity in the mail this season! Available at local retailers.

THINGS WE

LOVE RIGHT NOW

Compiled by Margaret Sarver

Jack Frost’s Winter Blast Last year when my mom was in town for a visit, we drove through the Holiday Lights display in Swope Park. We had a blast! This year they’ve not only added a second location near Legends Outlets, but have also have a brand new augmented-reality mobile game app. In this enhanced version of the real world, Jack Frost needs your help to save Christmas. Kids love this interactive, sensory stimuli experience! Pro Tip: Pair this game with a cruise through the holiday lights and experience the best of BOTH worlds! Available in Google Play and the App Store.

Car Wash The list of what I dislike about winter is long. (I know, I know, this column is about things we love— I’m getting to that). One thing I can’t stand is how dirty my car gets from the slush, snow and grime. When I walk by it in the garage, I end up with dirt on me. Yuck! But that’s where GO Car Wash comes to the rescue! With 21 locations in the metro, they help my car stay clean, and your car can stay clean for FREE! KC Parent is giving away five car washes every Monday in December and January! Plus their holiday gift card sale (pg. 29) makes a perfect stocking stuffer! KCParent.com.

Toilet Paper

14 december 2021 kcparent.com

That’s right, I’m writing about toilet paper and suggesting it as a gift! It’s a running joke in my family that my brother had a fear of running out of TP. Not sure what brought on this fear, but when he’d come for a visit to our house, one of the first things he’d do is check my stock to make sure I had enough on hand. When Jingle Rolls came across my desk—rolls of toilet paper carolers that sing when the box is opened—it brought a smile to my face. This would have been perfect for him! But really, it’s perfect for anyone, and it’s sure to be a gift that gets a smile from the recipient and gets put to good use! BimBamBooPaper.com

We adopted a cat a month ago and she is

Dogs dig holes for many reasons such as

toys with her scent on them to make it a

fantastic and wonderful in every way. She

trying to escape, hearing small animals in

more familiar and fun place to be. I hope

does this odd behavior where she puts her

the ground, lack of key minerals in their diet,

you and sweet furry girl have a great

front legs on my stomach when I am laying

and trying to cool off. But the simple and

holiday.

down and moves her paws up and down

probable answer is that digging is a lot of

– Ashley Flores, CPDT-KA

over and over for five minutes. Is she trying

fun! I recommend giving your dog plenty of

to tell me something or does she want

physical exercise, mental stimulation, and a

something? – Kelly Albertson

designated spot to do his digging, like a

FEATURED PET

sandbox, for his enrichment. You should This behavior is called kneading and it is a

stay outside with him until he learns where

normal behavior where cats display their

to and where not to dig.

comfort in a rhythmic way with their paws.

– Ashley Flores, CPDT-KA

Not all cats knead, but most of them use the front two paws when they do it and many will purr while kneading. There are many

I am traveling for the holidays, and was

theories on why cats do this, and feel free to

wondering how I can keep my dog calm in

surf the internet to learn about them

the car for the long drive. She has some

because they are interesting, but what is

anxiety and I am hoping you can share

important is that this is a behavior that

some tips on making this ride less painful

GRace

makes cats feel good and they do it when

for everyone. Thanks!

Grace is a two-year-old Shepherd mix who

they feel comfortable. She is not trying to

- Jessica Newport

forms strong bonds with her favorite people.

get you to do anything or tell you anything,

She is extremely happy, loving and loyal when it comes to her people. She will be an

just doing something that feels good to her.

Start by going on short rides to fun places

– Ashley Flores, CPDT-KA

so she develops a positive association with

homebody. She has great house manners, is

being in the car. Many dogs have built a

housetrained, enjoys playing fetch and knows

negative association with rides and going to

a bunch of commands already. She adores

My husky puppy will not stop digging holes in

the vet. Play games or work on a training

getting her neck scratched and being with her

the ground and I am going bonkers trying to

session in the car to make it a fun place.

keep my yard looking nice. Why is he doing

Keep the air cool while you are traveling so

this and what can I do about it? Please help!

she does not get overheated which can turn

- Adam Swan

into motion sickness. There are some calming sprays you can use in your car or calming collars to help. Worst-case scenario, see your vet about medication if she is highly anxious. Bring treats and some

excellent companion for someone who is a

friends. Please contact adoptions@greatplainsspca.org for more information on this hidden gem!

This holiday season, donations will be matched up to $150,000. Help us reach our goal of

$400,000!

Email askashley@greatplainsspca.org for a chance to have your pet question answered here in KC Parent magazine. Animal expert, Ashley Flores, CPDT-KA, is the Director of Animal Behavior & Training at Great Plains SPCA. Ashley has more than 16 years of experience in animal training and behavior.

www.greatplainsspca.org

Great Plains SPCA is an independent 501(c)(3) no-kill shelter serving approximately 4,000 animals annually in the Johnson County community. As Kansas City’s premium family shelter, we continue to support the seven municipalities with which we are contracted including Overland Park, Leawood, Lenexa, Shawnee, Lake Quivira and Johnson County Parks and Recreation and unincorporated Johnson County.

ASK THE

EXPERTS Haley Lefholz

Megan Maciel

MCPL

KVC KANSAS

Mid-Continent Public Library has 33 branches and serves more than 816,000 residents across Jackson, Clay and Platte counties, offering resources and services for all ages. 816.836.5200, MyMCPL.org

KVC Kansas provides heart-centered services to children and families through in-home family support, foster care, adoption, behavioral health care and children’s psychiatric hospitals. 913.499.8100, Kansas.kvc.org

What are some good, longer chapter-style books I can read aloud to my child?

I’m interested in becoming a foster parent. How do I get started?

Chapter books make great read-alouds, but finding one that is the right length can be tricky. Get started with this list of chapter books that aren’t doorstoppers but will take more than a couple of bedtimes to finish. All can be placed on hold for pickup from any MidContinent Public Library branch with your library card.

Start by asking yourself a few simples questions: Am I 21 or older? Do I have reliable transportation? Is my home a safe environment with enough space for another child (a separate bed for each child)? Do I agree to positive parenting techniques and non-physical discipline for children? Something else to consider is the financial aspect, but typically becoming a foster parent requires little to no cost. If you’ve answered yes, next steps include a background check and completing a 30-hour free training course, which helps you build skills for caring for children who have experienced neglect or abuse and, as a result, may have physical, emotional or educational difficulties. This is also a great opportunity to decide whether fostering is right for you.

The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate has short chapters perfect for quick moment. Clean Getaway by Nic Stone is one part road trip and one part family bonding. The Wild Robot by Peter Brown features shorter chapters and is fast-paced. Flora and Ulysses by Kate DiCamillo is action-packed and includes comic-style illustrations.

Haley Lefholz MCPL Youth Services Librarian

Megan Maciel Director of Recruitment and Communication KVC Kansas

ASK THE EXPERTS...If you have a question, send it our way and we’ll ask one of our experts to answer. Email editor@kcparent.com and put “Ask the Experts” in the subject line. As always, please consult your health care provider with any medical questions or concerns.

16 december 2021 kcparent.com

WORDFROMDAD

A TIME FOR FAMILY

“Where are you going?” I stopped zipping my coat and stared at Mom. “Down to Dave’s place.” Mom knew who they were and that Dave, a year younger than I, was my friend while his brother, Mark, a year older, was in my brother’s circle. “No, you’re not.” “How come? I have all this neat stuff to show him and I want to see what he got.” “There’ll be time enough for that tomorrow. Today, we stay home.” I didn’t give up. “Why?” “This is a holiday for family. On Christmas, we stay home.” “But …” “I’m not going to fight. If Dave comes up here, you can go out and play. If he doesn’t, you stay in. Got it?” I grumbled in sullen defeat. “Okay.” It wasn’t that I didn’t like my siblings. However, we’d all seen each other at our best and worst, frequently against one another. But family, much as we were bound, wasn’t like friends who played a large part in our lives. I flopped sideways on an overstuffed chair and concentrated on the presents. My gifts pleased me. A large, weighted chess set in an unusual style was my favorite this year, and I looked forward to a game. My little sisters twittered about their usual collection of dolls with clothes and accessories. However, my older brother got a board game that all of us could play and enjoy. After dinner, the adults stayed in the dining room for a card game and talk, but we kids gathered in the living room with the TV off. Bob opened his game in front of us and we chose our tokens. I rolled the dice. A two. Not enough to get me into the Dining Room. I passed the dice to Terri. On occasion, I enjoyed being family. William R. Bartlett lives in Belton with his family.

EVERY BOY BECOMES A MAN. THE QUESTION IS, WHAT KIND WILL YOURS BECOME? Since 1889, thousands of parents have looked to Missouri Military Academy to give their boys the structure, responsibility and love they need to grow, compete and thrive — and become young men in full command of their lives.

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You’re an expert on your kids. We’re experts on mental health. KVC Hospitals has all the resources you need to ensure your kids’ mental health needs are cared for. Visit www.kvchospitals.org/resources to learn about common mental health conditions, get practical advice and tips, and so much more from our mental health experts.

KVC Hospitals can help.

(913) 890 – 7468

www.kvchospitals.org kcparent.com december 2021

Q&A DEARTEACHERS

BY PEGGY GISLER AND MARGE EBERTS

CHECK UP ON YOUR PARTICIPATION IN YOUR CHILDREN’S EDUCATION

PARENTS: A new year is rapidly approaching, so

8. I attend my children’s school conferences.

many people choose to make resolutions at this time.

9. I am aware of my children’s academic strengths

Unfortunately, not too many follow through on the ways they’ve chosen to improve their lives and their family’s life. Instead of giving you a possible list of resolutions that could help your children be more successful in school, we are giving you a checklist so you can see how well you are doing in being a strong participant in your children’s education. Simply answer “yes” or “no” to each checklist item to evaluate the areas where you are a “star” and those where you might improve. Then, you can decide whether you should make some resolutions that will increase your participation in your children’s education. 1. I provide my children with nutritious breakfasts and other meals on school days. 2. I make sure that they have the appropriate amount of sleep on school days. 3. I supervise the amount of time my children can spend on electronic devices. 4. I ensure that my children have an excellent attendance record at school. 5. I check that my children are doing their homework assignments. 6. I have provided my children with a place to do their homework and the necessary supplies. 7. I talk with my children about the importance of getting a good education.

18 december 2021 kcparent.com

and weaknesses. 10. I have an idea of what skills my children should have in major subject areas. 11. I understand the grading scales that are used by my children’s schools. 12. I read to both my younger and older children. 13. I encourage my older children to read and let them see me reading frequently. 14. I have read the school handbook and know what the school’s code of conduct and disciplinary policy are for each child’s school. 15. My children know I support their schools’ disciplinary policies. 16. I read the newsletters that are sent from my children’s schools. 17. I know what extra services are provided by my children’s schools, such as counseling, speech therapy and gifted programs. 18. I have attended PTA/PTO meetings. 19. I have attended the school programs in which my children participate from concerts to science fairs to sports events. 20. I volunteer at the school in some capacity.

Summit Chr isti a n Ac ademy Named a Top 5 Private School

Preschool - 12th Grade • Biblically Integrated • College Preparatory • MSHSAA Member Call 816.525.1480 for a private tour or visit summit-christian-academy.org kcparent.com december 2021

TASTYTREATS

Holiday Sweets Made to Share (Family Features)

mong the decorations, gifts and gatherings of loved ones, there’s perhaps nothing quite like family favorite foods that call to mind the joy of the holidays. Whether your loved ones relish building gingerbread houses or dining on an all-in feast, looking forward to annual traditions is part of what makes the season so special. This year, you can add to the fun with a new annual activity by creating a delightful dessert with the help of little ones and adults alike. With an easy recipe like Peanut Butter Saltine Candy that calls for just a handful of ingredients, you can get the whole family involved in the kitchen. Ask your little helpers to measure out ingredients while a grownup prepares the pan and uses the stove. Once the base is finished baking, call the kids back to sprinkle chocolate chips and peanut butter chips over the top. After your candy creation is cooled, just break it into pieces meant to be shared with the entire family. An added benefit: All can enjoy the nutrient-rich flavor of peanuts, which rise to superfood status by delivering 19 vitamins and minerals and 7 grams of protein per serving.

Find more holiday recipes at GaPeanuts.com.

Peanut Butter Saltine Candy Ingredients: Nonstick cooking spray (butter flavor) 1 sleeve (4 oz.) regular saltine crackers 1/2 c. butter 3/4 c. creamy peanut butter 1 c. granulated sugar 2 c. milk chocolate chips 1/2 c. peanut butter chips 1/2 c. rough chopped, dry roasted peanuts

Instructions: Preheat oven to 400 F. Line 10" x 15" x 1" pan with aluminum foil. Spray foil with nonstick cooking spray then lay saltines flat in single layer on prepared pan. Set aside. In heavy duty 1-quart saucepan over medium heat, combine butter, peanut butter and sugar.

20 december 2021 kcparent.com

Stir constantly until butter and sugar are melted, bringing mixture to boil. Boil 3 minutes, stirring frequently. Pour cooked mixture over saltines and bake 5 minutes. Remove from oven and sprinkle chocolate chips over saltines. Let cool 3 minutes then spread melted chocolate completely over saltines. Sprinkle peanut butter chips evenly over chocolate. Return pan to oven 1 minute to soften chips. Pull pointed tines of fork through softened peanut butter chips to partially cover chocolate. Sprinkle chopped peanuts on top, gently pressing into candy. Let cool on rack about 15 minutes then place in freezer 3 minutes. Remove from freezer and break into pieces. Store in airtight container.

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kcparent.com december 2021

BEST SLED HILLS Is there anything more fun in the winter than sledding with the children, then returning home to hot cocoa and popcorn? Enjoy winter fun at one of Kansas City’s best sled hills. Favorite Sled Hills in the Kansas City Area: BLUE SPRINGS Ward Park (SW 22nd off 40 Highway) GRANDVIEW Behind High Grove Elementary School (2500 High Grove Rd.) Meadowmere Park (13610 Byars Rd.) Belvidere Park (6509 E. 147th St.) INDEPENDENCE Glendale Elementary School (2611 Lee’s Summit Rd.) McCoy Park (Off of 24 Highway) BELTON Calvary University’s Mad Dog Hill (on campus on 155th between Hamilton and Fairchild) KANSAS CITY, KS Wyandotte County Lake Park (91st & Leavenworth Rd.) Pierson Park (55th Street just south of Metropolitan Avenue) It’s always advisable to ask for permission before sledding on private property. KANSAS CITY, MO Suicide Hill Brookside Park (56th & Brookside) Loose Park (55th & Wornall) Kansas City Museum Hill (Gladstone Boulevard) Blue Valley Park (E. 23rd Street & Topping Avenue) Swope Memorial Golf Course (6900 Swope Memorial Dr.) Swope Park Frisbee Golf Course (Elmwood Street & Gregory Boulevard) Arleta Park (77th Street & Prospect Avenue)

22 december 2021 kcparent.com

White Oak Park (89th Street & Crescent) Gillham Park (Gillham Road, 39th to Brush Creek) Sheffield Park (E. 12th Street & Winchester) Blue River Park Athletic Field (I-470 & Holmes) Try to sled during the daytime, when visibility is better. If you go sledding at night, make sure the hillside is well lit and all potential hazards are visible. LEAWOOD Leawood Pioneer Library (117th & Roe) 133rd & Mission Road (NE corner) LEE’S SUMMIT Across Douglas Road from Lea McKeighan Park (120 NE Chipman Rd.) Delta Woods Middle School (4401 NE Lakewood Way) LIBERTY William Jewell College (Hill on campus) NORTH KANSAS CITY Waterworks Park (NE 32nd Street & N. Oak Trafficway) OLATHE Next to Lowe’s (13750 S. Blackbob Rd.) 119th & KC Road OVERLAND PARK Jewish Community Center (115th & Nall) Off of I-435 in Corporate Woods complex Grace Church (159th & Antioch) Behind the apartment complexes (110th & Antioch) PRAIRIE VILLAGE Hill at Meadowbrook Park (91st & Nall) SHAWNEE Stump Park (47th & Woodland)

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kcparent.com december 2021

DRAMA-FREE DROP-OFF

hen your baby is born, you want to keep her close to your heart and side forever. Eventually, as a child grows, it’s necessary for you to be away from him for periods of time throughout the day. The sooner you figure out a good way to say goodbye, give a kiss and a hug and turn to walk away, the easier it will be when your child actually spends the entire day at kindergarten or preschool. The hardest thing a mom and dad have to do is walk away when their little one is crying out to them not to leave. If you take some measures to assure little Ellen that she will have fun with other children, will enjoy snack time, recess and her new teacher, this moment in time will pass more easily. Then, even when you get to your car and shed a few tears, you will know your child isn’t crying! A great way to prep you and your child for that inevitable drop-off at a place

24 december 2021 kcparent.com

is to visit it first together. Spend time doing things like sitting at the table with your child, sharing a snack, talking with the caregiver or teacher and finding the bathroom. Even driving or walking by a few times and pointing out the school building can be helpful. Leave for a moment or two, and when your child sees you are gone, reappear quickly. This will let him know you will be back, no matter what. Lots of great books show children being dropped off at school for the first time, getting on the school bus or making new friends. Search the internet or your library website to find stories you can read together. There are many darling ones that help familiarize kids with the experience. The most effective thing you can do is make an effort to manage your own anxiety. Our children pick up on our stress and take cues from us. Most children enjoy new scenarios. Even though you want so

badly to stick around and see whether your child stops crying, resist. Long, drawn-out goodbyes can increase anxiety. Create your own goodbye ritual and stick to it. Give those last hugs and kisses, tell him you can’t wait to see him after school, then follow through and head out the door. If your child can’t seem to adjust, take a closer look at your baby’s world to see what the problem could be. Temperament plays a big role. Does one of your children hide shyly behind you when meeting new people, while your other child jumps to meet anyone who passes by? Think about this and decide how your child will approach and adapt to a new situation. If she is slow to warm up to new environments, spend extra time letting her get comfortable with school. Play on the playground, read in the library and attend school functions to give your child more opportunities to acclimate. As I mentioned before, adjust your visits to what

your specific child needs. Does he need a special toy to take with him? A new shirt you pick out together for the first day or a special type of sandwich in his lunchbox? Little things can mean so much. Adjust your actions. Remember, your child is an extension of you, and what you do in your home affects how kids act away from you. If you have a new baby at home, little Timmy might be jealous that his new baby sister gets to stay home with you, and he can’t. Take extra time with him, one-onone, while the baby is sleeping. Remind him that he is special. Plan to arrive at school a little bit early and create a ritual for easing in, such as reading a book together before you leave. Let your child’s teacher know as well, so that the teacher can work with and support your child as he adjusts. Remember, resist the feeling of mommy guilt and the feeling that you are abandoning your crying baby. Enlist the assistance of your child’s teacher. If you know your son cries every morning and also loves dinosaurs, have her place a dinosaur puzzle on the table for him to focus on right away. Anything to divert his attention from Mommy or Daddy leaving can help—it can make all the difference in the world! Another idea is to place a family picture where your child can see it. Ask your child’s teacher to create a “my home” project the first few weeks of school. The teacher can send home a blank house template and ask families to fill it with family pictures and things your child loves. Then, if your child feels sad, she can look at the pictures and feel loved. Next time you drop off your child, make it a point to let her know you will think of her while you are at work, eating lunch, doing laundry or cooking. Then, when she gets home, smother her with love and start a conversation about everything she did during her day!

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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: ParentMap.com, JustReedBlog.com kcparent.com december 2021

ENJOYING

screenless entertainment Low-tech ways to pass time without complaints

aiting in public with the kids can be quite stressful. After all, they might start fighting under the table before the food comes at a restaurant, or they might be spinning endlessly in the chair when the doctor finally walks into the exam room. Whenever there is a lull in the activity, it doesn’t take long for chaos to ensue. In these types of situations, the easiest way to prevent a disaster is to simply give the kids a screen to keep them still, calm and preoccupied. With some planning, though, you can keep kids entertained and engaged while waiting without pulling out the phone and turning to technology.

kcparent.com december 2021

Start developing your low-tech entertainment options by preparing a wide variety of busy bags for various occasions. Make sure the bags are ready to grab and go when it’s time to head out the door. There is really no limit to what you can put in them—crayons, coloring sheets, Legos, notebooks and puzzles are only the start of what is possible. While you are at it, consider themed bags. A bag with superhero puzzles and mini notebooks might be interesting to the child one day, but another day he might find a nature explorer bag more captivating. Once you have your stash of busy bags, brainstorm simple games that don’t require any materials to play. “I Spy” is typically

the first game that comes to mind in this category, but there are plenty others, including “Would You Rather” and “I’m Going on a Picnic.” Rhythmic singing and clapping games are always fun as well. These downtimes are also prime opportunities for kids to develop their imaginations and their storytelling abilities. Prepare several prompts for possible storylines, and have the kids brainstorm and share their stories. They could even work together to come up with a story and write it down later. Simple and easy-to-carry art supplies and coloring books are another must-have that will also engage their imaginations.

Visual scavenger hunts are always fun and keep the kids engaged and observant. When we drove to Colorado on vacation last summer, I printed out a list for the license plate game in addition to several other scavenger hunts. Throughout the trip, we enjoyed seeing just how many states we could find, and the game can be a fun way of teaching geography if you have the kids color in the states on a map as they spot various license plates. Hunts that require you to find other interesting people and objects visible from one’s perspective in a car are entertaining as well. From a canoe to roadkill, you might be surprised at all you see. Mad Libs are a favorite word and story game bound to make everyone laugh. Writing your own can be especially fun, so have the kids write their own simple stories and then remove various key words for everyone else to finish in their own way. Not only will hilarity ensue, but it can also teach the kids parts of speech and grammar.

Card games provide endless entertainment opportunities. From Go Fish on up to Rummy, the complexity of the games depends on kids’ age level, and engaging in these games can help boost reasoning and logic skills. Working to keep the kids caught up on their academic progress is an especially productive use of downtime, too. To this end, bring flash cards for math facts or anything else they are learning. Having short, simple and themed educational workbooks to complete are another fun way of learning. Of course, the most classic form of low-tech entertainment is simply reading an old-fashioned physical book. Find a specific series of books your child loves and designate these periods of downtime specifically for reading their chosen series. This will not only improve their reading, but it will help them look forward to these times so they can escape into the world of their favorite books.

Perhaps most importantly, these downtimes can also be the perfect opportunity to reflect and connect as a family. Everyone can share about a favorite family memory or something they would like to do together in the future. You could also have the kids share about their favorite activities, interests and hobbies, and you might be surprised by what you learn about them. No need to always be serious, as some light-hearted discussion about the funniest or silliest thing that has happened to them is bound to bring laughs and fun conversation. Remember, it’s good medicine for kids to find imaginative ways to entertain themselves. Creative thinking is an important skill that will serve them well as they get older.

Allison Gibeson is a Lee’s Summit writer and mom who loves playing the license plate game to pass time on road trips. She is determined to get all 50 plates one of these days.

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kcparent.com december 2021

Sensible Enough to Stay Home Alone?

f the idea of leaving your child home alone for the first time conjures up scenes from the infamous Home Alone movie of the ’90s, don’t worry! For many, leaving children home alone is not only an “earned” convenience of sorts for parents, but also a rite of passage for children. Although Kansas does not have an official legal age for leaving a child home alone, the listed guideline is age 6. However, according to Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF), “Young children from 0-6 years should not be left alone for even short periods of time. Children 6-9 years should be left for only short periods, depending on their level of maturity. Children 10 and above probably can be left for somewhat longer periods …” The National SAFEKIDS Campaign recommends no child under the age of 12 be left home alone. Regardless of what age your family decides to leave your child home alone for the first time, consider some crucial things. Does your child know personal information, such as his full name, address, phone number and parents’ names? Does your child know household safety rules and basic first aid? Can your child use the phone to call you, a neighbor or 911? A more extensive guide can be found at DCF.ks.gov/services. This list is by no means exhaustive, but it’s a helpful place to start. Classes are also a great way to prepare your children for staying home alone. Check out local recreation centers in your area for in-person classes but know that online home alone safety courses are also offered. At KidproofSafety.com, you can register your child for a quick 27-minute course for only $32, which also includes a free parent guidebook. No matter what program or class you use, you’ll want your own set of household guidelines and rules in place, as well as clear expectations. “When my children were in grade school and I first left them home alone, we lived in a tightknit cul-de-sac with many young families. I would not leave them alone for long: I

kcparent.com december 2021

would run to the grocery store or go for a jog. I made sure at least one adult neighbor was home and aware that my children would be home alone. My children treated this independence as a privilege, so they knew to always follow my rules of keeping the doors locked, staying indoors, having the phone accessible … and getting along!” says Polly, an Overland Park mom of two. Although guidelines and routines may vary from family to family, one thing seems to be common ground for everyone first leaving kids home alone: Begin with very small outings and work your way up. “I let my oldest stay home for the first time when he was around 10-and-a-half. I started with about 15 minutes, while I ran a quick errand, then gradually worked up to longer periods,” says Kristen, an Overland Park mom of three. “This past summer, I started letting all three children stay home for an hour or hour-and-a-half while I ran errands,

but always had my phone with me and stayed close by.” Staying home alone is a milestone for your child and can be confidence building, but remember, what works for one family may not work for yours, and even what worked for your oldest may not work for your youngest. “The age at which we first leave our children home alone is a very personal decision that depends on the comfort level of both parent and child,” Polly reminds. Ultimately you know your child best, so stay away from comparing your situation to that of a friend or classmate. The important thing is not to push your child, but try when the time is right, ensure your child feels comfortable with the idea, and provide him with adequate training. Julie Collett has not yet experienced this milestone with her four children, but both dreads and looks forward to it!

“The age at which we first leave our children home alone is a very personal decision that depends on the comfort level of both parent and child.”

PARTYGUIDE

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tress-free parties? To many busy moms, this sounds like a dream instead of reality. But the dream is attainable simply with a bit of planning and a focus on your child’s specific interests. When you let those be your guide, everything will fall into place a lot faster. When the party includes an outing, like visiting a pizza place or bowling alley, create a list of names of selected children to go in each car. Tell the children there will be no negotiations or special requests. Do make sure no one is feeling left out throughout the party time. Most of all, smile, laugh and be optimistic yourself.

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Consider planning an experience instead of a party. Give your child the option of taking several friends on an outing, such as the movies, bowling, local theme park, arcade, indoor rock climbing or the pool, depending on the season. An outing with a small group of friends is much less chaotic than a big party and requires almost no effort. Children often enjoy and bond with their close friends more when there aren’t so many people running about. If you have the party at home, keep the food simple. Lunch can be PB&J. If you do want pizza, ask for a school cut that features smaller slices, since kids often don’t finish their slice anyway. Another option is to plan the party before or after lunch or dinner, so you don’t feel obligated to provide a full meal. Let each child help when it comes to party favors. For example, paint or tie-dye t-shirts, decorate cupcakes or make slime. This gives kids an activity to enjoy and then take home. They stay busy, and you save on goody bags! Remember, you can always use items you have around your house. Create fun stations from toys you already have, such as a sports station with basketballs, soccer balls, tennis rackets and balloons. Or play dress-up and set out play clothes and other dress items you already have. Water fun is always a hit, with squirt guns, water balloons and kitchen sponges.

Who says you must have a birthday cake? Ask your child what he or she would like and go from there. Suggest root beer floats—purchase plastic cups for serving, and each child can take one home as a favor. Scoop ice cream into the cups the day before and store them in the freezer, then let party guests choose their favorite flavor of soda to make their float. Keep your party-planning self on track by always asking yourself whether your ideas will make your child have a better birthday. Looking at Pinterest may be exciting, but, chances are, children won’t care about much of that. Most would much rather enjoy a happy, present mom at the party than a burned-out, stressed mom who stayed up all night cutting out perfect food labels the kids can’t even read. Spend time on what matters to your child and leave the rest alone.

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

Sources: StressFreeKids.com, Simply-Well-Balanced.com, EverydayFamily.com.

kcparent.com december 2021

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kcparent.com december 2021

Great Benefits from a Family Game Night

n the age of smartphones, Netflix and busy lives in general, family time often gets neglected for other things. However, spending quality time together is important for the strength of your family. One great way to incorporate family time into your busy life is to plan and schedule a family game night. Get the kids involved and pick some games that are fun for all ages, set down the electronics, set out some snacks and enjoy some time together. Here are some great benefits you will enjoy by making time for family game night.

Affordable family fun Not only is game night a great way to bond as a family, but it is much more affordable than other family outings, such as going to the movies or visiting local attractions like the zoo. These activities often cost $10 or more per person, not including food and drinks. Game night is a frugal and fun way to enjoy family time because a one-time purchase of a new game costing between $20 and $50 can be enjoyed repeatedly for years to come.

Conversation starter Many parents struggle with getting conversation started with their kids,

especially teens. Conversation flows more easily as you play games together. Games can create healthy competition, teamwork, and bring up topics you might not normally discuss. It also helps build a bond and trust between family members.

Screen-free time If your family is anything like mine, screen time limitations are a challenge, not just for the kids but for the adults in the family as well. Intentionally setting our phones aside while we play a game together gives all of us a break from the constant barrage of social media and other digital distractions and frees us to take the time to focus on each other.

Reading skills boost Games are a great way for kids to build their reading and comprehension skills. If you really want to work on these skills, choose games that will help challenge your child’s reading level. For example, when playing trivia, the kids each take turns reading questions that may be about subjects that are new to them. They practice their read-aloud skills and might learn new information too.

Great family memories Perhaps the best reason to add a family game night to your schedule is enjoying quality time together. While doing so you will create wonderful family memories as you laugh together and enjoy some healthy competition. Kids are sure to look back on this family tradition and appreciate that you made time to set aside the distractions of life and enjoy playing together. . When planning a game night, make sure to be realistic. Playing games for several hours every Saturday night will probably not work for most families because of busy schedules. Plan a night where everyone is free and choose a game that can be played in a reasonable amount of time and keep everyone’s interest, as well as be fun for all involved. Put game night on your calendar and adjust plans to protect that time from other engagements. The time you put into family game night will be worth the bond your family members will build and the memories you will share.

Sarah Lyons is a part-time freelance writer and a full-time mom of six living in Olathe. kcparent.com december 2021

CHANGE IS HARD Helping Kids Learn to Cope

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ho likes change? I think it’s safe to say the majority of people do not. The problem is we live in a rapidly changing world. Jobs, family, location, relationships—all of it changes all the time. I joke a lot that I roll with the punches, but in all reality, I’m a planner. I like to know what’s going on and how to do it, so I can control as much as possible. Kids do not have the luxury of control. Most times they are dragged along for the ride regardless of whether they want to be. But the reality is kids are still humans. They still have experiences, feelings, emotions, reactions—and they can absolutely be in their own heads. Having the skills to cope with those changes at an earlier age is something they would benefit from. We may think kids are too young to be bothered by change or that they’ll be fine because they are resilient. Maybe. But what would it look like if we took initiative and taught them skills to cope with change, so they can develop that muscle early and be able to use it as they grow? This way, when they have confronted change, they’ll have a toolbox of coping mechanisms and know to put them to use. Let’s go through some strategies: I’ve found talking through an event before it happens to be very helpful. Weeks or days before my kids started school, daycare or sports I would talk about what would happen. That way, they could start to understand that something different was going to happen and be a new normal. They would know that they were going to leave me for an extended period of time and be under someone else’s direction. When my kids started sports, I explained what they needed to do. Going to a doctor appointment? The physician and nurse are going to use their tools on you, and you’re going to go in this big machine. This strategy has helped me a lot in framing change or new experiences as positive things—regardless of whether they actually were. Help kids develop the skills of anticipating what will happen but being ready to adapt if things change. Take the opportunity to talk about some situations that might become more difficult and go through how they might handle things when they need to be independent. This preparation mindset helps when they go to first sleepovers, start high school or college or get into challenging situations and circumstances. Another strategy is the formation of habits. Part of being human is making habits—they may be good, or they may be bad, and we do it a lot without being aware. I remember doing something with my kids and thinking, “Oh, it will be fine this once.” The next thing I knew, it had happened far more than once—and it wasn’t something I wanted to keep happening. We also form bad habits when it comes to dealing with difficult things in life. We tend to do unproductive things when we’ve had a bad day, a bad fight or a negative life event, and our brains resort to finding something to numb the

pain. Kids can develop coping habits at an early age, so how can we help them establish the habits that will help them to be successful instead of those that will hinder their success now and possibly in the future? One technique I’ve used is discussing what’s wrong and teaching kids how to move past the issue by doing something active. Our brains handle things more effectively and process more productively when we are physically active. After a stint of exercise, your child may be able to formulate a step-by-step plan of how to handle a situation. Another habit that has helped me immensely thus far is personal morning and evening routines. When things change, activities can be added to a habit that is already engrained. For example, getting ready for bed is a regular routine. Add in the process of setting out clothes appropriate for the next day’s new experience and you both help your kids feel prepared and lay the groundwork for a new helpful habit. The last I will mention is a big one and comes with a couple different angles. It is to listen to what our children’s struggles are when they go through a change. As adults, we tend to shrug off the things kids are grappling with because we know the issue is minor in the larger scheme of life or they will outgrow it. But really listening gives us the opportunity to help kids learn they can do hard things at a young age. They need to know what they are going through is important and they really can make it through. By listening to the struggle, we do a couple of

important things: acknowledge that they are struggling and it’s okay and also let them know they are strong enough to figure out how to make it through the hard situation. This leads to their being able to work through future struggles independently and effectively as they get older. This will breed into them that they are smart, strong and that they can work through the things they need to, how they need to. Everyone does things differently, and our kids are no exception. We need to be aware that they may need to handle change differently than we do. Life is changing all the time whether we’re ready or not. Our kids are along on this crazy ride with us, but often they don’t get direction in how to handle the new when it faces them down. All they know is they are scared and they just got thrown into the deep end with an encouraging thumbs up from Mom and Dad. Parents can’t protect kids from everything, but we can talk them through changes we know could overwhelm any kid. We can be good influences and instill good habits and routines for them to fall back on when things go south. We can listen to what they have to say so we can parent effectively rather than leave them floundering alone. Think about how you and your kids handle changes in life and how you can help them learn to cope.

Lauren Dreher lives in Stilwell with her husband and two toddlers.

kcparent.com december 2021

Dealing with an Underachiever

ife is filled with opposites. Up and down, highs and lows. Sweet and salty and, last but not least, we have the haves and have nots. What exactly does this have to do with my child and the fact that she’s underachieving? Well, plenty! After you read this article, you’ll walk away with a lot more understanding—and a little bit more information on how to deal with your underachiever.

RULE #1 – No one strives to be an underachiever. Don’t compare. From early childhood, people are programmed to go out into the world and give their absolute best effort. We tell our children they can be whatever they want to be and buy toys that help them create or fix things. Naturally, we tell our children what is considered good behavior and what is considered bad. Ultimately, kids just want to be liked, and in their minds, whoever gets the attention, whether good or bad, wins. Overachieving and underachieving can be part of that vying for attention. The Davidson Institution describes this as the “First Best” and “First Worst,” a complex described as competing to be the best but on two opposing ends. Now the draw-in: how children gain attention. The real message is how we as parents idolize one good thing over the other and forget everything else in between. Simply put, we praise the first-place winner and forget all about the third-place champ. Now, imagine if your child were that third-place champ. What if your child were the fifth-place runner? Last, imagine him or her coming in fifth place every single race. Best-kept secret? Don’t reward bad behavior or mediocrity and never make your kid feel like his personal best is not the best you’ve ever seen.

kcparent.com december 2021

RULE #2 – No one is to blame. It’s easy to throw a pity party for yourself or to blame your child for not trying hard enough. In cases of achievement, don’t do it! The best approach is to be supportive and remain positive. Help your child find what he is good at and support him in his journey; don’t criticize him in hopes he’ll get it. Pushing kids to work harder at something they simply have no interest in or are not good at will only kill their self-esteem, infuriate you or thin your patience. Instead of using your energy to urge your child to work harder at the same thing, try to challenge your child to understand that “thing” in a different way. Alter the approach. Growing up, I had the toughest time trying to understand long division. I had no problem with multiplication and the basics of understanding beforehand. I just didn’t understand why I had to use long division to divide things or why remainders even existed. My mom would get frustrated and ask my older siblings to help me with my homework. My older siblings would quit halfway through my homework lesson, and I’d be left at the kitchen table to figure it out by myself. It wasn’t until my great- grandmother came over to babysit that we discovered I just needed someone to slowly describe the process of division. In that moment, I didn’t feel pressured, pushed to understand something or criticized for not knowing the answers. I was given the same information with a different and more sensitive approach. Now, I can do long division in my sleep, with my hands behind my back, with no paper and with no help. Just think outside the box. You’ll get to the bottom of things for sure.

RULE #3 – It’s okay to ask for help. It takes a village to raise a child, and asking for help doesn’t make you desperate, nor does it make you ignorant. In fact, asking for help can only make you better. Reach out to a professional if your child is consistently exemplifying negative behavior. Turns out Newton’s third law doesn’t apply just to physics. “For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction.” There may be a deeper reason or more than one reason as to why your child is scraping the bottom of the barrel. Ask your parents how they dealt with situations like your child is dealing with. Their insight could really help both you and your child. Jessica Samuel lives in Kansas City and is a freelance writer and photographer.

kcparent.com december 2021

TALKING TO KIDS ABOUT

DISABILITIES

“W

hy do you talk like that?” I heard the question come from behind me as I helped another child in the Sunday school class. “It’s just the way I am,” I heard my sister-in-law wisely answer the curious boy. My sister-in-law, Kara, was born with cerebral palsy. She was helping me in the classroom that day when one of the kids noticed her speech was different. Kara has been taught to answer, “It’s just the way I am,” after years of questions about her differences. Our kids have grown up around their beloved Aunt Kara and accept her as she is, but there came a time when each of them asked about Kara’s disability and why it makes her different. Chances are, at some point, your child will meet someone at school or in the community who has disabilities. It is normal for children to have questions about people who are different, which means parents should be prepared to answer their questions in an intelligent and appropriate way. Here are some tips to get the conversation started:

Everyone is different but the same All of us have unique gifts, personalities and challenges. No two people are the same, and this is a great thing because diversity makes life interesting and fun.

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While we are all different, everyone has things in common, too. All people, including people with disabilities, want to have friends, be shown respect and have the desire to be accepted. Encourage your child to embrace the differences of others and find common ground, as well. If your child is interested in a popular television show, book, toy or game, chances are a person with special needs is too. Ask them what they love to do. I would guess they will be happy to tell you. “People with disabilities don’t need or want people to fix them,” says Jawanda Mast, parent of a child with Down Syndrome and founder of #321 Advocate. “We all face challenges and need different types of support. People with disabilities are the same.”

Types of disabilities differ Some disabilities are obvious, and some are not. Some people may need a walker or wheelchair to help them move around. Others may have a cognitive (thinking) disability that is not as visible. Explain in simple terms to your kids that people struggle with different things and may need a little extra help from a physical tool (like a wheelchair) or help from others. “I would like parents to tell their child it is okay to be curious and ask questions. It is not okay to stare,” says Michelle Lyons. People can

have impairments with sight, hearing, walking, speech, cognition or a variety of other things. “Acknowledge your child’s curiosity and help them as a normal person with an extra challenge,” says Olathe mom Krystal Laws. It’s important to note that just because someone is in a wheelchair, it does not mean that person has a cognitive disability. Also, disabilities are not contagious, and children are not going to “catch” the disability. These things may sound obvious to adults, but children process things differently and many have these questions.

Name calling is never okay Emphasize that people with disabilities have feelings too. Name calling is hurtful, disrespectful and is a form of bullying. People with disabilities need others to stand up for them when they cannot stand up for themselves. Encourage your child to tell an adult if kids are teasing another child. “Talk to your children about including people with disabilities and people who are different in birthday parties, games, playdates, and to sit with them at lunch,” says Mast. “They want to be included like everyone else.” Your child can be an example to others by being kind and respectful. Parents can set an example by using positive language and behavior towards others, as well.

A note about “rude” comments Kids are curious and love to ask questions. Many times they will speak exactly what is on their mind, without thinking about whether the comments will be hurtful. This can be very embarrassing to parents. So what do you do if your child blurts out a rude and embarrassing comment? Start by answering calmly and matter-of-factly. If, for example, your child says, “Why is that boy in a wheelchair?” Simply answer, “He needs it to move around. Why don’t you say hello?” If the child is reluctant, say hello to the boy yourself along with something like, “John likes trains. Do you like trains too?” If the person accompanying the child responds, follow her lead. It is always better to treat others as you would like to be treated than to hurry away in an embarrassing situation. Later, when you are at home, you can ask your child whether she has any other questions about others with disabilities and reinforce the value of treating everyone equally. “Don’t be embarrassed that your

child is staring and pull them away,” says Marie Taylor, Olathe mom of two. “If you do that, they will think it’s something to be afraid of. Encourage them to say hello and ask questions. Once they know, see and understand, it’s like there are no differences.” My sister-in-law, now 43 years old, has been asked many questions over the decades, some rude and some just curious. She has learned to handle them well because she knows that, just like anyone else, she has challenges to overcome and successes to celebrate. Kara loves watching movies, dancing to music and taking care of animals. She loves eating candy, pizza and tacos. She is fun to be around and loves to get out and explore new places. People with disabilities are just people. Sometimes that simple fact is all kids need to know.

Books That Help Parents Talk to Their Kids About Disabilities and Diversity Kindness Is My Superpower: A Children’s Book About Empathy, Kindness, and Compassion by Alicia Ortego Hacking the Code: The Ziggety Zaggety Road of a Dyslexic Kid by Gea Meijering My Whirling Twirling Motor by Merriam Sarcia Saunders Meeting Mimi: A Story About Different Abilities by Francie Dolan and Wendy Leach Katie Can: A Story About Special Needs by Erin Palmer and John Joseph Dragon and His Friend: A Dragon Book About Autism by Steve Herman A Kid Is a Kid Is a Kid by Sara O’Leary

Sarah Lyons is an Olathe mom of six children, including 7-year-old triplets.

Wonder by RJ Palacio Just Because by Rebecca Elliott

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THE

GUIDE 41 christmas tree

countdown craft

42 holiday commandments

44 fun calendar 46 christmas

countdown

49 sweet treats 50 avoid gift overload

52 gift experiences

CRAFTCORNER

Materials Needed: • Extra large poster board or a large sheet of wrapping paper

christmas tree countdown

Get into the holiday spirit with this fun Christmas tree countdown craft!

• Assorted construction paper • Tape or glue • Pencil • Scissors • 25 giant pom-pom balls (we used 2-inch)

• Old toilet paper roll or similar

Step one: On the large poster board/wrapping paper sheet, lay out the pom-pom balls in a tree pattern. We did one ball at the top, followed by three, five, seven and then nine. Use the pencil to lightly trace a tree pattern. We lined up the center balls to help make the pattern even. Set balls aside. Step two: Use green construction paper to make your tree. Use brown to make the tree trunk. Either tape or glue down to large paper. Step three: Place pom-pom balls back onto the tree and use the toilet paper roll to lightly trace circles where you want the pompoms to go. Move pom-poms aside and draw numbers onto the tree, starting number one at the top of the tree, working your way down, left to right. We used a marker to label the numbers. We chose to retrace the circles with the marker. Step four: To dress things up, we added some presents at the bottom of the tree using leftover construction paper and smaller pom-poms. Step five: You can cut out your tree or leave the larger paper on as background.

Step six: Hang your tree! Step seven: Every day, add an additional pom-pom to your tree to enjoy the countdown to Christmas!

Janelle Cumro-Sultzer lives in Overland Park with her husband, two children and two dogs. Janelle is a former health care executive director and is a mediator in Kansas, helping families in conflict. Janelle loves to focus on learning through play and getting messy with crafts. kcparent.com december 2021

COMMANDMENTS F O R M O R E H OL I D AY C H E E R

Want to experience a more joyful holiday season this year that doesn’t leave you miserable, depleted and broke? Here are 10 ways to shift your perspective and take command of this “hap-happiest” time of the year! Thou shall quit worshipping perfection. Nothing burns holes into the fantasy holiday 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. “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 Kansas City therapist Julia Flynn. Thou shall not overcommit. Decide ahead of time which activities won’t work this year. Instead of committing to five parties and multiple gift exchanges, choose one or two that you’re enthusiastic about attending—and only if you feel comfortable doing so. “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.”

Thou shall rediscover “the why.” Take time to reevaluate your

priorities. How do you want the season to feel? What do you want your kids to remember most? “Sometimes we need to take a step back and ask ourselves why this time of year 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, a transformational coach, speaker and author of The High Achievers Guide: Transform Your Success Mindset and Begin the Quest to Fulfillment. “Take a step back to assess, from an intangible, emotional perspective, why the holidays are important.”

Thou shall rest. Self-care is essential all year long, but especially

during a time when we are in the midst of a busy holiday season. If your stress level is sky-rocketing, 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 taking a warm bath, watching a favorite TV show, walking outside, curling up with a juicy novel or enjoying a nap or a massage.

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Thou shall honor thy family. Attempts to please others by saying yes to everyone else’s holiday gatherings without taking into account your and your family’s comfort level and 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 holiday tradition to be. You are not obligated to participate in somebody else’s version of the season,” Moussavi says. 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 the season 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 holiday play your family wants to see or take charge of a few of the gifts.

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. Since you know how the person is likely to behave, rehearse how you will respond when they pounce. “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. You 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 try, “Let’s agree to disagree.” Also, physically exit the situation by saying you’re going to refresh your drink or make a call.

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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 gathering. Forgo Christmas cards this year. For the relatives who have everything, send flowers or make a donation in their name to an organization that is important to them.

Thou shall not compete with thy neighbors. 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 lighthearted 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. “If you are intentional, you can make the holidays 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. Freelance writer Christa Melnyk Hines and her husband are the parents of 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.

Christmas at Historic Lecompton November 1st – January 1st Wednesday – Saturday: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday: 1 p.m.-5 p.m. Come see one of the largest Christmas tree displays in the midwest with 200 trees decorated with Victorian, antique and themed ornaments. Visit our shops and eateries, too!

Vespers: December 5th at 2:00 p.m. TERRITORIAL CAPITAL MUSEUM 640 E. Woodson | Lecompton, KS 66050 785-887-6148 | LecomptonKansas.com kcparent.com december 2021

DECEMBER FUN CALENDAR

DECEMBER 4

National Cookie Day: McLain’s Bakery

DECEMBER 16

has been serving delicious baked goods, including cookies, to local customers since 1945. Famous for their chocolate cup cookies, they offer goodies that are a delicious way to celebrate National Cookie Day.

fresh dipped fruits and holiday sweets at Laura Little’s, a real neighborhood candy store in Prairie Village since 1970.

Chocolate Covered Anything Day: Satisfy your candy cravings with

DECEMBER 20 Go Caroling Day: Gather some friends and go caroling. Visit neighbors, grandparents and friends and serenade them with your favorite Christmas carols and some goodies.

DECEMBER 24 National Egg Nog Day: Enjoy locally-made eggnog from Shatto Milk Company, whose concoction is frequently voted the best eggnog in Kansas City.

DECEMBER 12 National Hot Cocoa Day: Christopher Elbow, the city’s most famous gourmet chocolatier, makes drinking chocolate in three flavors.

DECEMBER 21 Crossword Puzzle Day: In 1913, the first crossword puzzle was published in the New York World. Purchase a crossword puzzle book at your local bookstore or, for the true enthusiast, buy the World’s Largest Crossword Puzzle, measuring 42.25 square feet with more than 91,000 squares and 24,000 clues from Amazon.com.

DECEMBER 14 National Monkey Day: The Kansas City Zoo is open year-round. Treat the family to a winter outing and visit the monkeys (and their animal pals) at the zoo. While you’re there, check out FOTZ memberships—they make great Christmas gifts!

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DECEMBER 27 Make Cutout Snowflakes Day: Make intricate paper snowflakes using classic instructions from The Old Farmer’s Almanac.

25 SIMPLE WAYS

to Count Down to Christmas Does manufacturing the Christmas season magic seem a job too momentous for a mortal parent like you? Although Santa’s elves may not deliver pixie dust from the North Pole to help you, don’t despair! You can orchestrate a very merry—and magical—season that’s as simple as you make it to be. Here are 25 simple ways to count down to Christmas that you can pick and choose from based on the ages and interests of your children and family.

Amanda Ingram, mother of three, has a few countdowns that her family does each year. “We do an Advent calendar, Hershey Kiss-a-day strand, a countdown ornament from Hallmark and a felt magnetic Christmas tree with an ornament each day leading up to Christmas.”

“Our church has a workshop for families to make a ‘Jesse Tree.’ You can Google various ways to make one. Through the season of Advent, each day has a Bible story from creation to Easter,” says Julie Ulven, mother of one. We went to this same church and have done our Jesse Tree for 11 years now! I also love the Advent books by both Tsh Oxenreider and Ann Voscamp.

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Gina Tireman, mother of two, has an excellent way to use up any leftover Halloween candy. “When my kids were little, we made a countdown to Christmas by using their Halloween candy to make ‘candy chains,’” she says. “We strung them over their doorways, and each day they could have one piece of their Halloween candy as they counted down to Christmas.” If your kids have devoured their candy already this year, add this idea to your calendar now to remember next year!

Make a family bucket list. This can be as simple as a list, or let your kids help make a poster with as much detail as they would like to add. (Bonus points because it can keep them busy on those long, dark evenings leading up to the 25th of December!) Then, use this list as a casual countdown, as time permits, for the activities you’ve listed.

Santa’s beard and cotton ball countdown is a fun one for the younger crowd and can mark the time till Christmas, as well as when you plan to visit Santa. Appointments may be necessary, so if this is something that’s important to your holiday season, plan ahead!

For more of a craft countdown, consider adding a new decoration to your tree each night or week, such as stringing popcorn, stringing cranberries, making construction paper chains or crafting a new ornament. Craft stores have great kits!

Advent calendars are an easy way to count down with tons of variety! Rebecca Shields, mother of two, says her children keep the Christmas spirit alive even as they get older. “We have an Advent calendar with little drawers. Each day the kids get Lego pieces to build a Christmas Lego set. They are now 15 and 12 and still look forward to their annual Christmas Lego build!” We have done this before, but this year I may ask my older son to come up with his own to build with his younger brother.

THE

If your kids are aging out of the picture book tradition, move on to reading Scripture telling the Christmas story or a fun holiday-themed chapter book or even doing a holiday-themed Mad Lib each night together at dinner.

Make a garland of photos from past Christmases to hang on your mantle or staircase to remember moments from previous years. You could just do pictures of your kids as they’ve grown, or you could add some more fun by adding some of yourselves when you were kids too!

Kristina Light, mother of four and KCParent.com digital media manager, says, “I wrap Christmas books, and we read one a day.” We have always done this at our house too, but I happened upon a large red cloth bag one year and, ever since, have had my kids take turns drawing a book from the bag without peeking, instead of unwrapping them. If you don’t own 25 Christmas picture books, go ahead and place some holds on some library books to pick up!

GUIDE

Spread holiday cheer like Jessi Cole, mother of three. She says,“Our elf brings an act of kindness to do each day up until Christmas Eve.” That’s a good way to make those naughty elves have a positive impact over the holidays. But make a list well ahead of time, so you’re not scrambling last minute and adding stress to the season. Collaborate with friends or do a quick search to have ideas at the ready.

Another fun thing Light does with her family is to incorporate ornaments into the Advent season. “We have an Advent calendar of spiritual ornaments that tell the story of Jesus’ birth day by day,” she says.

Carrie Leibold, mother of two, has a fun twist on the Advent Calendar. “We have an Advent calendar with pockets we fill mostly with activity coupons we make up, like 30 minutes of iPad time, 60 minutes of TV time, you pick the restaurant, you pick the movie for family movie night and trips to see Christmas light displays. When they were younger, I would make coupons to go to indoor playgrounds at Chick-fil-A, Burger King and Scheels. They thought those were so great, and it was a great way for them to burn energy and keep me sane! I also put in small items from the dollar store or $1 bills. I tried to avoid candy because they got so much of it during the holidays.” Another great surprise Leibold includes in some of the pockets are “Get Out of Chore” coupons, such as no dinner cleanup or skip unloading the dishwasher.

Color some holiday coloring sheets or make cards for local nursing homes. Send some to all your grandparents to brighten their trip to their mailbox each week. As your kids get older, maybe plan a few fun and more elaborate crafts to do together leading up to Christmas.

Take part in a candy cane countdown as mentioned on KCEdventures.com: “No, this is not about eating a candy cane—instead, grab one each day and leave it as a surprise! Treat the person bagging your groceries, use it as a ‘sweet’ thank you, slide it on a windshield at the grocery store –it’s a fun way to spread some holiday cheer!” We would probably take turns each day for a family member to choose who to gift the candy cane to for the day.

Plan your holiday treats leading up to Christmas or plan a baking day! If you’d rather just cut and bake with your kids, go ahead and make the dough ahead of time to cut down on any stress you may have baking with young kids. You can plan a quiet day with your immediate family, make it an extended family tradition or plan a cookie exchange with your neighbors or friends.

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In a similar vein, try other cultures’ holiday traditions. For example, some families celebrate St. Nicholas Day on Dec. 6 by leaving their shoes out for St. Nicholas to leave presents in. Try one new culture each week to learn about Christmas around the world.

Plan your holiday movies! This is always a fun tradition to rewatch family favorites as well as any new movies you’d like to see. December has a tendency to fly by, so planning which movies you’d like to watch and putting them on the family schedule can help make sure you’re enjoying the holidays as you wish to. Molly Hautman says, “I make a list of 25 Christmas movies every year and watch one a day starting Dec. 1 until Christmas Day!”

Try a minimalist countdown. I know I struggle with all the new things coming into our house during this season! Each day, have the family or each member toss or donate an item no longer needed to help clear clutter over the holiday season.

Another way to incorporate Your family might enjoy the sounds of the season is to making a Friday night tradition make a music countdown of your of visiting a new place to drive favorite holiday albums, artists and around and look at Christmas lights songs. Perhaps you rotate days each week. Make sure to visit the light throughout the week of who gets to choose show at Deanna Rose Children’s the day’s holiday music. Whether you’re one Farmstead and check out the “Best that begins listening when you taste that Christmas Light Displays” on first PSL from Starbucks or patiently wait KCParent.com for more locations. “We until the first of December, it’s nice to do a Christmas light bucket list and make time to actually listen to your favorite check them off through the season,” albums and playlists. This year, I plan to Cole says. “We try to do a few schedule one night to listen in ‘light tours’ with hot candlelight together as a family, Discover and try a new chocolate too.” now that my kids are tradition based on your family’s getting older. history. Make use of those DNA tests we’ve all received over the past few years and make an old tradition new to your family. I found the book The Remember that traditions are up Maybe counting down Tomtes’ Christmas Porridge by Sven to you, and your Christmas magic from 25 days is a bit much this Nordqvist a couple of years ago, and it’s might not include any of the ideas season, so maybe your family can sparked a fun way to incorporate our listed here. Also keep in mind that do a “12 Days till Christmas” heritage in a way we hadn’t previously. if you’ve tried something in the countdown instead. When my husband We now leave out rice pudding for and I were first married, I started leaving past that wasn’t anyone’s favorite, the tomtes to say thank you him a little treat and note for the 12 days you can skip it this year and try for their help throughout leading up to Christmas, and it’s been something new that might become the year. going on now for 14 years! Now our kids an annual tradition. Otherwise, pretend to be our little elves to do our maybe it’s your family’s tradition to special deliveries for us each day, and try something new each year! Also, I think it’s a sweet memory for schedule downtime as well. The them and helps them focus on holiday season can be a frenzied the fun of giving to others. time filled with overstimulation Speaking of giving to for both you and your kids, so others, maybe your family’s make sure you have some days countdown can be completely left open to just be and try to stick others-focused. Try planning a to a normal routine as much as Random Acts of Kindness (or RAK) possible. Wishing you a calm and countdown. Some ideas include serving If your kids are at a foodbank, delivering cards or gifts to enjoyable holiday season this year! aging out of some of neighbors, packing a shoebox for Operation the countdowns aimed at Christmas Child, choosing an Angel Tree the younger crowd, let them Stephanie Loux is the mother of child to purchase gifts for or adding an item help you prepare a countdown Layla, 11, Mason, 9, and Slade, 6, of food to a box you donate to your local of Christmas-themed Minute and is looking forward to testing food bank for Christmas. Again, if daily to Win It or other games to out some new ideas this year as countdowns ask too much, make it a play each night in December. her children keep insisting on weekly, monthly or annual (Hint: Pinterest has growing up. countdown to work best a ton of ideas!) for your family. kcparent.com

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Sweet Holiday Treats Many local shops specialize in holiday treats with a rich heritage. Some favorites include: Wally’s Pastry Shop is beloved for their chocolate Christmas houses. Master pastry chefs Wally Uhl and his son, Manfred, were trained in Europe, and they’ve been preparing their confections for Kansas Citians, including President Truman and other local celebrities, for decades. 816.452.7535 Strawberry Hill Povitica’s shop makes handmade European sweet bread in an open kitchen where customers can watch as the bread is baked from scratch. 800.634.1002

Dolce Bakery’s chocolate yule log cake is just one of the favorite pastries at this shop, which also specializes in cookies, cakes and treats. 913.236.4411

André’s Confiserie Suisse refers to their Christmas cake shaped as a yule log by its French name, Buche Noel. The cake lives up to its reputation as a delicious and beautiful dessert. 816.561.3440

Annedore’s Fine Chocolates makes an array of gourmet chocolates, but their holiday signature is a box of chocolate Country Club Plaza Christmas lights wrapped in an artisan box with a gold bow—they’re almost too pretty to eat! They also make a fabulous cup of hot chocolate. 913.831.0302 Topsy’s Popcorn has been serving Kansas City their famous gourmet popcorn since 1950. Topsy’s makes it seem like Christmas. Their popcorn is essential to holiday celebrations, in flavors of cinnamon, cheese and caramel, presented in their beautiful Plaza tin. TopsysPopcorn.com

Laura Little’s makes beautiful chocolates, and they’ll even personalize them for your loved ones—but their fudge can’t be beat. 913.722.2226 Betty Rae’s Ice Cream offers one-of-a-kind flavors and made-from-scratch waffle cones. Their egg nog ice cream is a holiday favorite, and the shop also sells fresh pies for Christmas. BettyRaes.com

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Set expectations early By “early,” I mean when they’re toddlers. A decent assortment of books, a few motor skills toys like puzzles or blocks, and pots and pans from the kitchen are more than enough. Easy peasy. If you’re worried your child will be spoiled with loads of presents from grandparents or relatives, stop it early on. Reiterate that your focus for Christmastime will be memories and togetherness, not things wrapped with a bow. Request that grandparents provide an experience as a gift, like a movie day out or season tickets to the zoo. Encourage them to get creative with how they give the gift. Perhaps they give your child a small stuffed animal that’s holding an envelope with the tickets. Creativity always wins the big points!

Focus on the traditions, not the presents

AVOIDING GIFT OVERLOAD

A Christmas with Memories, Not Monsters.

hristmas is a magical time when anything can happen, and some of children’s favorite memories and family traditions of the season are woven into their hearts for the rest of their lives. Unfortunately, Christmas can be difficult to navigate when it comes to a child’s expectations. And while we can all do our best to teach the importance of giving and the warmth it can bring to everyone, it’s a tall order to ignore the hype of Santa and reindeer and mountains of presents. The pressure to give our children a “good” Christmas is enormous and grows every year. Of course we want to provide a magical holiday, but we also want to keep our kids’ feet firmly on the ground. We want to raise children who are thankful for what they have and grateful for what they are given. So how do we avoid that inevitable gifting and wanting overload? Here are a few tips:

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If your kids are only thinking about what they’re going open on Christmas, it’s going to be a very long season. Try breaking things up by staying focused on one or two traditions a week. Bake cookies and treats one weekend, hang the decorations the next and voyage out to look at the lights another weekend. By stretching out the experience, your kids have something to look forward to that isn’t in a catalog or online.

Speaking of online … This is a great time to implement screen time limits if you haven’t already. Yes, that includes both television and ipads/phones. Social media and television are already oversaturated with ads during a normal year—at Christmastime the ads become a deluge. Don’t even get me started on Black Friday. Do everything you can to minimize that exposure. Black Friday isn’t something any child needs to experience or even be aware of. Keep it that way as long as you can.

Limit in-person exposure If you can—and understandably this can be a big ask—keep your kids away from malls and shopping centers during this season. Coronavirus implications aside, frantic shopping energy is contagious—and

not in a good way. People running around trying to acquire as much as possible in a short amount of time is asking for trouble. Emotions run high, tempers are short, and it’s an all-around unpleasant place for a child to be. Bonus: Staying home prevents your child from seeing all those over-lit, catered-to-children displays that show them things they NEED RIGHT NOW, which they don’t really need at all.

Focus on giving It is absolutely true that giving is addictive. When you do something kind for someone, it instantly gives you a feeling of warmth and love. Let your children experience the satisfaction and joy of providing presents for a child or family who don’t have much. Volunteer to distribute gifts or sing songs to residents in a retirement community. If you can incorporate these acts of kindness every year, that will become a tradition that focuses on the here and now and encourage an appreciation for the things your children might otherwise take for granted.

What’s up with Santa? Somehow, Santa became the big gift giver of the season. As a child, I knew if my parents didn’t get me the gift I wanted, Santa would. That approach is all kinds of backwards. Parents are the ones who work hard each year for their children and families. The best presents should be from us! Santa can stuff stockings and eat the cookies, but ease up on the expectation for THE Santa gift. Instead, you might consider having Santa bring one gift for the entire family to enjoy. The rest are from you!

Implement the Five Gift Rule You might have heard of the Four Gift Rule, which consists of one thing they want, one thing they need, one thing to wear and one thing to read. It’s a great rule, but I would like to petition a change. I would formally request we update to TWO things they want. I mean, c’mon, the kids have been through the ringer these last two years. The least we can do is bump up the fun things a bit without going overboard.

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GUIDE

In the end, Christmas is about family and bringing everyone close together in love and appreciation for health and happiness. Whether anything is under the tree should be irrelevant, but we do live in the real world and want to offer gifts and presents. So let’s do it—within reason. Let’s lead with love and gratitude and not set our credit cards on fire with things we can’t afford to try to buy our kids’ love and affection. We’ll keep the focus right, and the rest of the holiday glow will fall into place.

Kim Antisdel is a freelance writer and interior design sales rep for KC. She lives in Liberty with her husband, stepdaughters and son.

Celebrate the Season

Access epic holiday feast recipes, new and classic holiday movies, or the gift of relaxation with virtual yoga. All free with your Library card.

mymcpl.org/Celebrate

kcparent.com december 2021

GIVE EXPERIENCES THIS

f your family is like our family, you don’t need more “things.” I’ve long believed that stuffed animals replicate themselves at night. If you have multiple children, you undoubtedly have plenty of toys. I’ve always been a fan of “experience” gifts. They are my favorite gifts to give and to receive. I love watching my girls’ faces light up when they experience a new show or try something new. This holiday season, consider gifts of experiences—not toys—for your family and friends.

Johnson County Museum: Family memberships are affordable, and members enjoy free admission, as well as discounts on museum programs and events and a 10 percent discount at the gift store, in addition to other perks like invitations to exhibit openings and special events.

MEMBERSHIPS

Powell Gardens: Members enjoy free admission to top-notch annual festivals (including the Festival of Butterflies and Festival of Lights) and free or discounted admission to more than 200 gardens and arboretums across the country and discounted classes and programs for families.

We love family memberships to local attractions. Members enjoy free admission, special members-only events and, in many cases, reciprocal relationships with other venues in other cities for discounted or free admission. Some favorites include:

The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures: You decide to buy a pass for up to two, six or 12 guests per visit and bring any combination of guests each time you visit. This is a great way to share a favorite local attraction with out-of-town guests.

Kansas City Zoo FOTZ Membership: You can choose your membership level to include just admission or add on unlimited rides (a favorite for families with young children). In addition to enjoying our fabulous zoo year-round, members enjoy special events and discounted or free admission at zoos across the nation.

The National WWI Museum and Memorial: Enjoy free admission and special events. You may also purchase additional museum tickets for guests at half price.

Urban Air Trampoline Park: You may choose a membership at the Overland Park or Lenexa locations or buy a combo membership to enjoy both parks year-round. They offer three levels of memberships so you may choose the value. Attractions include virtual reality, Sky Rider, ropes course, climbing walls, Leap of Faith, Wipeout, ProZone performance trampolines, Warrior Course, Battle Beam, Drop Zone, indoor tubes playground and basic trampolines. Science City Membership: Science City is a great indoor venue for families to enjoy year-round. Members enjoy special events and discounted admission for ticketed exhibits. Membership is reciprocal with other science museums across the nation, meaning you can enjoy free or discounted admission when you travel. Worlds of Fun/Oceans of Fun: Enjoy unlimited visits and free parking to Worlds of Fun and Oceans of Fun with your season pass. Best of all, your Gold Pass includes exclusive discounts, early park access and more!

kcparent.com december 2021

The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art: Members enjoy free admission to featured exhibitions and free parking. Upper levels also include free admission to other art museums. Pool Passes: Buy a membership to your local indoor pool at the neighborhood community center or YMCA or buy next summer’s outdoor pool pass. Sports Season Tickets: Kansas City is home to several terrific sports teams—tickets to one game or the entire season make a great gift. Buy season tickets for Kansas City Royals, Kansas City Chiefs, Sporting KC and KC Mavericks. Theater Tickets: Our local theaters offer a variety of shows for all ages. Season tickets are often less expensive than the per show ticket price. Families with children will enjoy season tickets to the Coterie (you may choose shows for older or younger children or a mix). KCRep offers shows that are typically suited to teens and adults, but A Christmas Carol is fun for all ages. Midwest Trust Center at JCCC offers shows for all ages throughout the year, and KC Ballet or other local live theater groups are other great options. You may purchase single or season ticket packages as a great gift for theater buffs.

Kansas City Zoo

THE

GUIDE

HOLIDAY SEASON Tickets to Shows Coming to Town: Follow our Kansas City calendar to discover the latest shows coming to town. Summer Camp: Register now for summer camp. Search “Camp Guide” on KCParent.com for the scoop on the best local camps.

UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCES Rock Wall Climbing: RoKC Olathe is an indoor rock wall climbing facility featuring 35- to 50-foot walls for all skill levels from beginner to expert, 15-foot bouldering walls, fitness equipment available for ages 14+, cardio equipment, elliptical equipment, Jacob’s Ladders and facilities for Advanced Climbing Training (for those with a year of experience). The attraction is great for single-day visits (purchase a day pass or multiple visit punch card), memberships and parties. Escape Rooms: Tick Tock Escapes is our favorite local escape room company. Their Pyramid Paradox room is a favorite with incredible special effects reminiscent of an Indiana Jones film. Teams of six to 10 people are “locked” in a room for an hour, and they solve puzzles trying to figure out how to escape. Each room features a different theme and a different set of puzzles. Find even more escape rooms in our Going Places Guide on KCParent.com. Ice-Skating: There are many great places to ice-skate this winter, and you’ll find them all in our Going Places Guide. We especially love outdoor ice-skating at Crown Center Ice Terrace. In the Northland, enjoy skating at The Rink at Zona Rosa, an outdoor rink surrounded by shopping and dining options. Movie Tickets: Treat the family to a movie. Save money and head to the theater during a matinee or discount night, or splurge on a dine-in theater or 4D experience. Paint Your Own Pottery: Ceramic Cafe offers clay building, ceramic painting and glass fusing. Enjoy Creative Story Time for little ones, special classes or their walk-in programs to make gifts and holiday decorations.

RoKC Olathe Classes, Plants, Landscaping: Family Tree Nursery boasts three local locations. This beautiful local nursery not only offers everything you need for landscaping, they also offer home decor and a variety of classes. Colonial Gardens in Blue Springs offers a Kids Club and great family classes as well. This list should get you started. For even more local inspiration, search our Going Places Guide on KCParent.com where you can search local attractions and discover some great unique options from indoor skydiving and inflatable places, to go-karts, arcades and more!

Kristina Light loves the wide variety of local attractions across the metro. She blogs regularly about the best of Kansas City on KCParent.com. kcparent.com december 2021

december

FOR EVEN

MORE EVENTS, HEAD TO THE ONLINE CALENDAR AT KCPARENT.COM.

No part of this calendar may be reproduced in print or web format. Please call to verify event details.

CALENDAR

Santa’s Gingerbread Station at Crown Center

54 december 2021 kcparent.com

enjoy

visit

see

celebrate

play

Celebrate the holidays with the family at Holiday Reflections at Union Station. Enjoy sky-reaching lights, decorated trees— plus a biggerthan-ever Rudy’s Wonderland. UnionStation.org

Head to Santa’s Gingerbread Station thru Dec 24 at Crown Center. Santa Claus will welcome guests throughout the holiday season for visits, wish lists and photos. CrownCenter.com

Take the family to see the Liberty Light Show Dec 3-5 and 10-12 at Pleasant Valley Baptist Church. Christmas lights display synchronized with live musicians. LibertyLightShow.com

Start off the season with a Christmas Open House on Dec 4 at Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm. Enjoy the decorations, make an ornament and visit the historic house! Mahaffie.org

When school’s out, sign the kids up for Kids Day Out at the Johnson County Museum. Explore KidsScape and exhibits, play games, enjoy activities and more! Pre-reg at 913.715.2570.

1 Wednesday Holiday Reflections Thru Dec 27, Union Station. Enjoy sky-reaching lights, decorated trees—plus a bigger-than-ever Rudy’s Wonderland. UnionStation.org Table Top Games 6:00, Johnson County Library. Enjoy virtual games while meeting new friends and having new adventures. Hosted via Zoom. JoCoLibrary.com Animal Tales Story Time 10:30, Ernie Miller Nature Center. Listen to a story and meet a special animal friend. Today’s theme: Mrs Claus. 913.826.2800 Seasons of Wonder Thru Dec 27, Wonders of Wildlife (Springfield, MO). Get in the “fishmas” spirit with festive themed events and delightful activities. WondersOfWildlife.org Winter Magic Thru Jan 2, 5:00, Oakwood Drive (Swope Park). Drive through nearly a mile of a magical holiday light show experience. Purchase tickets at WinterMagicKC.com.

2 Thursday Letters to Santa Thru Dec 10, the View Community Center. Write a letter to Santa, then drop it off and Santa will write back! Grandview.org

Cookies with Santa 3:00, Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop and Farm. Visit Santa, pose for a portrait and enjoy some treats! Pre-reg at Mahaffie.org. Festival of Lights 4:00, Powell Gardens. Enjoy more than 20 miles of holiday lights that highlight the natural forms of Powell Gardens. PowellGardens.org Christmas at Camp Thru Sunday, Youthfront Camp West. Interactive retelling of Nativity story, hot chocolate, music, crafts and more! Tickets at Youthfront.com. Mayor’s Holiday Tree Lighting 6:00, Corinth Square. Join KC Wolf, Santa and friends for tree lighting ceremony, along with local performances. PVKansas.com Intro to Climbing 6:30, RoKC. Class introduces skills and techniques to help bump your climbing to the next level. Pre-reg at ClimbKC.com

3 Friday Jumperoo 9:00, Urban Air (Overland Park). 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. Read a book, then paint a ceramic item that goes along with the story and finish with a snack. CeramicCafeKC.com ‘Tis the Season Art & Craft Show Today & tomorrow, the Pavilion at John Knox Village. More than 100 booths of handcrafted gifts and décor. IBDPromotions.com Tuba Christmas Noon, Crown Center Square. Fun and festive lunch hour concert to listen to the sounds of the season, tuba style! CrownCenter.com

Buddy’s Holly Jolly Christmas 7:30, Musical Theater Heritage. Enjoy holiday favorites, as well as some Buddy Holly classics. MTHKC.com

Santa’s Polar Express 5:30, Downtown Excelsior Springs. Take a photo in front of the mayor’s tree and hop on the Polar Express for a free train ride. VisitExcelsior.com

Amahl and the Night Visitors 7:30, Thru Dec 12, Lyric Opera. Enjoy a true Christmas story and see the three wise men befriend the shepherd boy, Amahl. KCOpera.org

Holiday Celebration 5:30, Shawnee Indian Mission. Fun, free holiday event. Christmas trees and greenery available for purchase. ShawneeIndianMission.org

COR.ORG/Christmas

kcparent.com december 2021

Holiday Sing-Along Dec. 11, Midwest Trust Center. Dan Zanes, along with his wife and a friend, perform a wintertime celebration. Free but must pre-reg at JCCC.edu/midwest-trust-center.

Supper with Santa 6:00, Vesper Hall. Enjoy breakfast for supper, snowball hunt, crafts and meet-and-greet with Santa and Mrs Claus! Prereg at BlueSpringsGov.com.

Christmas in the Courtyard 6:30, Merriam Community Center. Join for annual tradition of lighting of the mayor’s tree. Merriam.org

Mayor’s Tree Lighting 6:00, TB Hanna Station. Join for the tree lighting and enjoy hot chocolate, ice-skating, Santa and more! Raymore.com

Annual Christmas Tree Display Thru Jan 1, Lecompton Township. The display features Victorian, antique and themed ornaments on 200 trees. LecomptonKansas.com

Journey to Judea Thru Sunday, Countryside Baptist Church. Interactive Christmas experience that walks you through the narrative of the Bible. Tickets at JourneyToJudea.com.

Child of Hope Thru Dec 12, TCH Olathe Studio. The richness and inspiration of Christmas and the Nativity story are brought to life. CultureHouse.com

Liberty Light Show Dec 3-5 and 10-12, Pleasant Valley Baptist Church. Christmas light display synchronized with live musicians. LibertyLightShow.com

First Fridays 7:00, Crossroads Art District. Art galleries, retailers and other participating art venues located in the Crossroads Art District showcase art. KCCrossroads.org

Sar-Ko Aglow 6:00, Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park (Grand Pavilion). Kick off your holiday festivities this year with the lighting of Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park. Lenexa.com

Bridget Kibbey with the Dover Quartet 8:00, Midwest Trust Center. Bridget Kibbey and the Dover Quartet feature some of the works of JS Bach. JCCC.edu/midwest-trust-center

OLATHE, KANSAS Est. 1858

4 Saturday Breakfast with St Nick 8:00, Strawberry Hill Museum. Enjoy breakfast, a visit with St Nicholas and a picture. Pre-reg at StrawberryHillMuseum.org. Toys For Tots Train Display Thru Dec 16, Family Tree Nurseries (all three locations). Visit the Toys For Tots Train Display and donate new, unwrapped toys. FamilyTreeNursery.com

Start your holiday season with a visit to our free

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

Visit our website and follow us on social media for more fun events throughout the year!

1200 Kansas City Road Olathe, KS 56 december 2021 kcparent.com

mahaffie.org 913-971-5111

Open House 8:00, Louisburg Cider Mill. The cider mill is decked out for the holidays! Enjoy shopping, samples, music and more! LouisburgCiderMill.com

Candy Cane Hunt 10:00, Sports Complex (Overland Park). Help find hundreds of candy canes that have been hidden around the complex! Pre-reg at BlueValleyRec.org.

A Kansas City Christmas 1:00 & 5:00, Lenexa Baptist Church. Enjoy a Christmas Worship Experience with LBC’s choir and orchestra. LenexaBaptist.com

Breakfast with Santa 8:30 or 10:30, Ironwoods Park. Come spend a morning with Santa and enjoy an all-you-can-eat breakfast. Pre-reg at Webtrac.Leawood.org.

Trees: Winter Tree ID 10:00 or 12:30, Anita B Gorman Discovery Center. Trek the center’s grounds to learn how to identify trees. Pre-reg at MDC.Mo.gov/events.

Holiday Homes Tour 2:00, Weston, MO. Tour includes treasured homes and venues dressed up for the holidays. WestonMO.com

Small Mall Today & tomorrow, CW Parker Carousel Museum. Elves help kids shop for gifts then enjoy a free carousel ride. Craft sale for adults. 913.683.2434

Meet Santa at Zona Rosa 11:00, Thru Dec 24, Zona Rosa. Enjoy a magical time of year at Zona Rosa, and meet Santa in his Winter Wonderland. Online reservations. ZonaRosa.com

Christmas Celebration 9:00, Missouri Town 1855. Warm up by the fire, help decorate, join the carolers and explore traditions of Christmas past. MakeYourDayHere.com

The Snowy Day 11:00, Midwest Trust Center. Mesner Puppets presents uplifting musical about childhood joys and living life to the fullest. JCCC.edu/midwest-trust-center

Holiday Traditions on the Prairie 9:30, Oxford Schoolhouse. Enjoy music, crafts and decorating the tree at the Historic Oxford Schoolhouse. 913.663.9157

Family Yule Log Hunt 11:00, TimberRidge Adventure Center. Eat lunch, hunt for your family Yule log and then warm up by the campfire with hot cocoa. Pre-reg at JCPRD.com.

The SpongeBob Musical 1:00 or 4:00, Coterie Theatre. Enjoy a performance where SpongeBob powerfully proves that optimism can save the world. TheCoterie.org

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

Old-Fashioned Christmas Parade 11:00, Downtown Lawrence. Authentic horse-drawn carriages parade down Massachusetts Street. 785.856.4437

Vespers 2:00 Lecompton Township. Enjoy Vespers featuring many local musicians and vocalists, and see their 200 beautifully decorated Christmas trees. LecomptonKansas.com

Christkindlmarkt 3:00, Downtown Shawnee. Live entertainment, kids crafts, Santa, shopping, food, tree lighting and more! CityOfShawnee.org

5 Sunday Holiday Film 12:30, 3:00, 5:30 or 8:00, Extreme Screen (Union Station). Enjoy the holiday favorite Christmas Vacation on the big screen! UnionStation.org

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kcparent.com december 2021

A Kansas City Christmas 5:00, Lenexa Baptist Church. Enjoy a Christmas Worship Experience with LBC’s choir and orchestra. LenexaBaptist.com

6 Monday Messy Car Mondays Thru Jan, KCParent.com. Is winter making your car dirty? KCParent.com is giving away 5 FREE car washes from GO Car Wash. Sensory-Friendly Days 9:00, Johnson County Museum. Limited occupancy session for kids with sensory processing differences and autism spectrum disorders. Pre-reg at JCPRD.com. Toys For Tots Train Display Thru Dec 16, Family Tree Nurseries (all three locations). Visit the Toys For Tots Train Display and donate new, unwrapped toys. FamilyTreeNursery.com Visit Legoland 11:00, Legoland Discovery Center. Take the kids to the ultimate indoor playground for the biggest fans of Lego. Purchase tickets at LegolandDiscoveryCenter.com.

7 Tuesday Santa’s Gingerbread Station Thru Dec 24, Crown Center. Santa Claus will welcome guests throughout the holiday season for visits, wish lists and photos. CrownCenter.com

piano lessons

Learn to play piano and have FUN doing it! AGES 7+ | ALL SKILL LEVELS | AFFORDABLE | FLEXIBLE VOICE LESSONS | EXPERIENCED TEACHER (12 YRS)

It’s Cookie Time 10:00, MCPL360. ‘Tis the season to bake and eat! What are your favorite treats? Celebrate with Mr Stinky Feet! Pre-reg at MyMCPL.org. Pay for Play 10:00, Backyard Specialists. Plan a playdate for your children and their friends at our amazing showroom. BackyardSpecialists.com/pay-for-play/ Discover Nature: Naturalist Hour 2:00, Burr Oak Woods. Go on an adventure with a naturalist to make amazing discoveries as you explore on a trail. Pre-reg at MDC.mo.gov/events.

8 Wednesday Holiday Reflections Thru Dec 27, Union Station. Enjoy sky-reaching lights, decorated trees—plus a bigger-than-ever Rudy’s Wonderland. UnionStation.org

IN-PERSON OR ZOOM CLASSES AVAILABLE!

Both daytime and evening lessons available! Call Spring Terburgh at 913-636-4472 LOCATED RIGHT OFF I-35 AND 119TH ST IN OLATHE AND IN SOUTH KCMO

58 december 2021 kcparent.com

Retro Story Time 10:00, Johnson County Arts & Heritage Center. Hear a story from long ago read by a guest from the 1950s All-Electric House! Craft included. Pre-reg at 913.831.3359. Winter Solstice Torch Lit Hike 5:00, George Owens Nature Park. Celebrate the change of seasons with this family favorite! GeorgeOwensNaturePark.org

Holiday Light & Magic Thru Jan 2, near Legends Outlets. Drive-thru Christmas lights experience the whole family will enjoy! Tickets at HolidayLightAndMagic.com.

9 Thursday Jumperoo 9:00, Urban Air (Lenexa). A special time when entire park is open for children 5 and under with a parent. Jump, bounce and crawl! UrbanAirTrampolinePark.com Clay Club 5:00, Ceramic Cafe. Kids learn how to work with clay. Different projects each week utilizing different skills. Sign up for 3 weeks for $54. CeramicCafeKC.com

NOW OPEN! LIMITED Group Size Morning and Afternoon Sessions Enhanced Cleaning

Owl Prowl 6:30, Martha LaFite Thompson Nature Sanctuary. Go in search of the winged and wonderful owls of the sanctuary. Pre-reg at 816.781.8598. A Renaissance Christmas 7:30, Folly Theater. Stile Antico recorded portions of their program which will be interspersed with a performance by KC Chorale. ChamberMusic.org

10 Friday Snow-Ventures 9:00, Kansas Children’s Discovery Center. Dive into a winter wonderland with a sock skating rink, learn cool science and more! KansasDiscovery.org

Museum

8788 Metcalf Ave Overland Park, KS jocoahc.com

For more info & to book your session: JCPRD.com/Museum

Child of Hope Thru Dec 12, TCH Olathe Studio. The richness and inspiration of Christmas and the Nativity story are brought to life. CultureHouse.com Annual Christmas Tree Display Thru Jan 1, Lecompton Township. The display features Victorian, antique and themed ornaments on 200 trees. LecomptonKansas.com Merry Market 4:00, the City Market. Enjoy festive shopping, food and drink. Shop from more than 75 local artists. TheCityMarket.org Road to Bethlehem 6:00, Red Bridge Baptist Church. A walk-through experience giving a glimpse into the true meaning of Christmas. Pre-reg at r2b.RedBridgeBaptist.org. Liberty Light Show Thru Sunday, Pleasant Valley Baptist Church. Christmas light display synchronized with live musicians. LibertyLightShow.com Santa’s Express Lights Thru Sunday, National Agricultural Hall of Fame. A drivethru wonderland of holiday lights and living Nativity. AgHallOfFame.com

kcparent.com december 2021

SIX-STOP TOUR

KANSAS CITY, KANSAS 1. HOLIDAY LIGHT & MAGIC

2. HOLIDAY SHOPPING

3. KCK LEGACY TRAIL

This year, celebrate the holidays with some hot cocoa and a drive through Kansas City’s newest holiday light display: Holiday Light & Magic. This dazzling display is a fundraiser for Children’s Mercy Hospital and their “I Love Children’s Mercy Fund.” Experience hundreds of lights in fabulous displays. HolidayLight AndMagic.com

Legends Outlets is a favorite holiday shopping destination! With more than 75 stores, many delicious dining options, a movie theater and the shopping center’s Legendary Tree putting on an amazing light show synchronized to music, this is the most festive place to purchase gifts this season! Legends Shopping.com

Explore KCK’s vibrant cultures on the KCK Legacy Trail. The trail features multiple journeys for visitors to learn about different local ethnic groups including Latino, Eastern European, Black heritage, Indigenous peoples and modern immigrants. Discover the people, stories and legacies of Kansas City, KS, and have a chance to earn prizes! VisitKansas CityKS.com

60 december 2021 kcparent.com

4. SNOWLAND The magic of Snowland at Great Wolf Lodge is an unforgettable holiday experience. Enjoy the whimsical holiday decorations, visits with Santa and the magic of snow inside the lodge! With themed activities and holiday music, a getaway to KC’s indoor waterpark is a wonderful holiday treat! GreatWolf.com

5. STRAWBERRY HILL MUSEUM

6. SANTA’S WONDERLAND

The Strawberry Hill Museum tells the story of the region’s ethnic heritage. The site becomes a magical kingdom during nighttime tours when it is illuminated with holiday decorations and lights. Wine, appetizer and dinner tours are offered throughout the holiday season. StrawberryHill Museum.org

Every holiday season, Cabela’s welcomes families to visit Santa and take a photo in his wonderland. With beautiful holiday decorations inspired by nature and wildlife, and fun Christmas crafts and activities provided by Santa’s elves, a visit to Santa’s Wonderland is a favorite for kids. Cabelas.com

The Great Candy Cane Hunt 5:30, Olathe Community Center. Bring flashlights to find candy canes Santa dropped in Stagecoach Park. Pre-reg at 913.971.8563.

Swimming in a Winter Wonderland 5:30, Olathe Community Center. Enjoy our holiday themed swimming, treats, music and more! Pre-reg at OlatheKS.org.

Christmas Five Senses Open House 6:00, John Wornall House Museum. Engage all of your senses as you tour the house! Pre-reg at WornallMajors.org.

12 Sunday

11 Saturday

Holiday Choirs Thru Dec 19, Crown Center Atrium. Beautiful music fills the halls of as area school, church and community choirs perform. CrownCenter.com

Breakfast with Santa 9:00, Indian Heights United Methodist Church. Enjoy yummy food, crafts, activities and photo ops with Santa. IndianHeightsUMC.org

A Spectacular Christmas 2:00, Musical Theater Heritage. Holiday tunes from musical theater along with innovative arrangements of holiday classics. MusicalTheaterHeritage.com

Kids Club 10:00, Colonial Gardens. Kids enjoy fun activities while you shop at Colonial Gardens or savor a coffee at the Bean Counter. Pre-reg at ColonialGardensKC.com.

Festival of Lights 4:00, Powell Gardens. Enjoy more than 20 miles of holiday lights that highlight the natural forms of Powell Gardens. PowellGardens.org

Santa’s Workshop 10:00 or 1:00, Ernie Miller Nature Center. Rotate through stations to make a craft, play games, enjoy snacks and more! Pre-reg at 913.826.2800.

13 Monday

Day in the Life 10:00, National World War I Museum and Memorial. See how winter holidays were celebrated by soldiers and their families. TheWorldWar.org Meet Santa at Zona Rosa 11:00, Thru Dec 24, Zona Rosa. Enjoy a magical time of year at Zona Rosa, and meet Santa in his Winter Wonderland. Online reservations. ZonaRosa.com Holiday Sing-Along 11:00, Midwest Trust Center. Dan Zanes, along with his wife and a friend, perform a wintertime celebration. Free but must pre-reg at JCCC.edu/midwest-trust-center. Cookies and Photos with Santa Noon, AtkinsJohnson Farm. Enjoy cookies, cider and the opportunity to take a photo with Santa and Mrs Claus. AtkinsJohnsonFarm.com Taste of Christmas Noon, Downtown Excelsior Springs. Sample tasty treats from local businesses and do some shopping! Tickets at VisitExcelsior.com. Lanesfield School Country Christmas 1:00, Lanesfield Historic Site. Write a letter to Santa with pen and ink and enjoy crafts and refreshments. JCPRD.com

Mom & Me Bumper Bowling 9:30, Summit Lanes. For just $3 per person, you get a game, shoe rental and drink on Mondays and Wednesdays. SummitLanes.com Visit Sea Life 11:00, Sea Life Aquarium. Bring the kids to see the Doodle Reef, the touch pool, Stingray Bay and more! Purchase tickets online at VisitSeaLife.com. Polar Bear Passage 10:00, Kansas City Zoo. Visit the zoo’s polar bears in Polar Bear Passage. The zoo is open year-round. KansasCityZoo.org

14 Tuesday Outdoor Ice-Skating 10:00, Crown Center Ice Terrace. Bring the family to enjoy a day of skating at Kansas City’s original outdoor iceskating rink. CrownCenter.com Toys For Tots Train Display Thru Dec 16, Family Tree Nurseries (all three locations). Visit the Toys For Tots Train Display and donate new, unwrapped toys. FamilyTreeNursery.com Winter Magic Thru Jan 2, 5:00, Oakwood Drive (Swope Park). Drive through nearly one mile of a magical holiday light show experience. Purchase tickets at WinterMagicKC.com.

15 Wednesday

The Elves and the Shoemaker 2:00, Theatre for Young America. A new dramatization of the classic story of elfin kindness. Tickets.UnionStation.org

Christmas Critters 10:00, Martha LaFite Thompson Nature Sanctuary. Learn about all sorts of festive critters. Pre-reg at 816.781.8598.

Candlelight Tour 4:30, Fort Osage. Experience holidays in the early 19th century with a guided candlelight tour. Pre-reg at MakeYourDayHere.com.

Animal Tales Story Time 10:30, Ernie Miller Nature Center. Listen to a story and meet a special animal friend. Today’s theme: A Visit with Santa. 913.826.2800

Visit Legoland 11:00, Legoland Discovery Center. Take the kids to the ultimate indoor playground for the biggest fans of Lego. Purchase tickets at LegolandDiscoveryCenter.com. Seasons of Wonder Thru Dec. 27, Wonders of Wildlife (Springfield, MO). Get in the “fishmas” spirit with festive themed events and delightful activities. WondersOfWildlife.org

16 Thursday Storytime 10:00, Johnson County Library. Join on Facebook Live for stories, songs, fingerplays and movement activities to foster reading skills. JoCoLibrary.com Behind the Scenes Tour 10:30, Johnson County Museum. Learn why we collect, what we collect and the importance of the collection to the community. JCPRD.com Intro to Climbing 6:30, RoKC. Class introduces skills and techniques to help bump your climbing to the next level. Pre-reg at ClimbKC.com Christmas Concert 7:00, Atonement Lutheran Church. A relaxing evening full of holiday favorites and music sure to bring some holiday cheer. OPCivicBand.org The SpongeBob Musical 7:00, Coterie Theatre. Enjoy a performance where SpongeBob powerfully proves that optimism can save the world. TheCoterie.org

17 Friday Jumperoo 9:00, Urban Air (Overland Park). A special time when entire park is open for children 5 and under with a parent. Jump, bounce and crawl! UrbanAirTrampolinePark.com Grow a Reader 10:00, MCPL. Join library staff for a virtual story time brought directly to your home! Pre-reg at MyMCPL.org. Holiday Tour 10:00, Bingham-Waggoner Estate. The estate is decked out in holiday splendor. Tours by advance registration at BWEstate.net/events. Creative Story Time 10:30, Ceramic Café. Read a book, then paint a ceramic item that goes along with the story and finish with a snack. CeramicCafeKC.com Santa’s Gingerbread Station Thru Dec 24, Crown Center. Santa Claus will welcome guests throughout the holiday season for visits, wish lists and photos. CrownCenter.com

kcparent.com december 2021

The SpongeBob Musical Thru Jan. 2, Coterie Theatre. Enjoy a performance where SpongeBob powerfully proves that optimism can save the world. TheCoterie.org

Local Life Today & tomorrow, downtown Overland Park. Explore locally owned businesses, activities and more. Head to DowntownOP.org for details about this month’s theme.

18 Saturday Holiday Greenings 10:00, 11:30 or 1:00, Anita B Gorman Discovery Center. Discover how to decorate using native plants and make a festive wreath. Pre-reg at MDC.mo.gov. Christmas Family Fun Day 10:00, Alexander Majors Barn. A morning of holiday fun includes crafts, cookies, tours, photo opportunities and more. 816.444.1858 Santa Delivers 10:00, Thru Dec 19, Kansas City Zoo. Santa is back one more time, and all weekend long you may spot Santa on his sleigh as he delivers gifts to animals. KansasCityZoo.org 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

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

january

Wreaths Across America 11:00, National World War I Museum and Memorial. Wreath-laying ceremony to remember the fallen. TheWorldWar.org Living Nativity Today & tomorrow, Rolling Hills Presbyterian Church. Come enjoy the live Nativity, complete with real animals! RHCKC.org The Magic of Christmas 2:00 & 7:00, the Goppert Theater. A Nutcracker performance that tells the true meaning of Christmas! DramaticTruth.org Clara’s Dream Today & tomorrow, Olathe East Performing Arts Center. Miller Marley performs Clara’s Dream and presents a holiday musical revue! Tickets at MillerMarley.com Holiday Magic 3:00, John Knox Pavilion. Celebrate the holidays with the annual performance by the Lee’s Summit Symphony. LSSymphony.org

WEE

Child Development Center ORKSHOP “Where Your Child is Special”

2 weeks to 12 years ChildAges Development Center 6:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. “Where Your Child Is Special”

Ages 2 weeks to 12 years 6:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

10% OFF infant room for Two Convenient Locations:

Child Development nd & enrollment. MetcalfCenter Ave 127th &year Antioch first with162 new “Where Your Child is Special” 913.681.2191 913.681.2190

• easy home fixes • realistic resolutions • birthday party guide

2 weeks to 12 since years FamilyAges Owned and Operated Part-Time Preschool (Ages 1990 3-5) 6:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. 9:00-11:30 or 9:00-3:00 weeworkshopchildcare.com Mother’s Day Out (12 mos-3 years) 9:00-3:00

Photo by Jordan Rice and courtesy of the Coterie Theatre.

Winter Solstice Celebration 6:30, Prairie Park Nature Center. Learn about the solstice, make ornaments, burn a Yule log and more. Pre-reg at 785.832.7980.

19 Sunday Annual Christmas Tree Display Thru Jan 1, Lecompton Township. The display features Victorian, antique and themed ornaments on 200 trees. LecomptonKansas.com

THE ULTIMATE ALL-NEW

BIRTHDAY PARTY GUIDE FOR KANSAS CITY

200+

PARTY VENUES AND PARTY ENTERTAINERS

Two Convenient Locations: 127th & Antioch

162nd & Metcalf Ave

913.681.2190 Two Convenient913.681.2191 Locations:

162nd &and Metcalf Ave 127th & Antioch Family Owned 913.681.2191 913.681.2190 Operated Since 1990 Family Owned and Operated since 1990 weeworkshopchildcare.com weeworkshopchildcare.com

62 december 2021 kcparent.com

CHECK IT OUT AT

KCPARENT.COM!

Festival of Lights 4:00, Powell Gardens. Enjoy more than 20 miles of holiday lights that highlight the natural forms of Powell Gardens. PowellGardens.org

Meet Santa at Zona Rosa 11:00, Thru Dec 24, Zona Rosa. Enjoy a magical time of year at Zona Rosa, and meet Santa in his Winter Wonderland. Online reservations. ZonaRosa.com

Sar-Ko-Aglow Thru Jan 17, Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park. Take a nighttime stroll around Rose’s Pond to view the beautiful annual light display. Lenexa.com

Seasons of Wonder Thru Dec. 27, Wonders of Wildlife (Springfield, MO). Get in the “fishmas” spirit with festive themed events and delightful activities. WondersOfWildlife.org

20 Monday Messy Car Mondays Thru Jan, KCParent.com. Is winter making your car dirty? KCParent.com is giving away 5 FREE car washes from GO Car Wash. Holiday Reflections Thru Dec 27, Union Station. Enjoy sky-reaching lights, decorated trees—plus a bigger-than-ever Rudy’s Wonderland. UnionStation.org Liberty Light Show Thru Dec 24, 6:30, Pleasant Valley Baptist Church. Christmas light display synchronized with automated music. LibertyLightShow.com

21 Tuesday Drive-Thru History Tuesdays 9:00, Missouri Town 1855. Drive into Missouri Town to explore the village and visit with our living history interpreters. MakeYourDayHere.com

Winter Magic Thru Jan 2, 5:00, Oakwood Drive (Swope Park). Drive through nearly one mile of a magical holiday light show experience. Purchase tickets at WinterMagicKC.com.

22 Wednesday Kids Day Out 8:00, Johnson County Museum. Explore KidsScape and museum exhibits, play games, enjoy activities and more! Pre-reg at 913.715.2570. Outdoor Ice-Skating 10:00, Crown Center Ice Terrace. Bring the family to enjoy a day of skating at Kansas City’s original outdoor iceskating rink. CrownCenter.com Luminary Walk Thru Dec 26, Rolling Hills Presbyterian Church. Bring the family and wander through this magical wonderland full of holiday spirit! RHCKC.org

23 Thursday Santa’s Wonderland Thru Dec 24, Bass Pro Shops & Cabela’s. Visit Santa, take a photo in his wonderland and enjoy crafts and activities. BassPro.com Helzberg Penguin Plaza 10:00, Kansas City Zoo. Visit the zoo’s penguins at Helzberg Penguin Plaza. The zoo is open year-round. KansasCityZoo.org Intro to Climbing 6:30, RoKC. Class introduces skills and techniques to help bump your climbing to the next level. Pre-reg at ClimbKC.com. Christmas Eve Eve Service 7:00, Lenexa Baptist Church. An early service to celebrate the birth of Jesus. LenexaBaptist.com

24 Friday Christmas Eve Visit Sea Life 10:00, Sea Life Aquarium. Bring the kids to see the Doodle Reef, the touch pool, Stingray Bay and more! Purchase tickets online at VisitSeaLife.com. Santa’s Gingerbread Station Thru Dec 24, Crown Center. Santa Claus will welcome guests throughout the holiday season for visits, wish lists and photos. CrownCenter.com

kcparent.com december 2021

Christmas Eve Services 3:00 & 5:00, All three Lenexa Baptist churches (Lenexa, DeSoto & Olathe). Enjoy a Christmas Eve experience. LenexaBaptist.com

25 Saturday CHRISTMAS Christmas Day

Merry Christmas from KC Parent! Thanks to the Kansas City community for 36 years of readership and support!

Holiday Light & Magic Thru Jan 2, near Legends Outlets. Drive-thru Christmas lights experience the whole family will enjoy! Tickets at HolidayLightAndMagic.com.

28 Tuesday Sar-Ko-Aglow Thru Jan 17, Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park. Take a nighttime stroll around Rose’s Pond to view the beautiful annual light display. Lenexa.com Winter Wonderlaughs 7:00, MCPL360. This show is a MESS (Music, Education, Stories and Science)! Join for a hilarious show filled with snowy silliness! Pre-reg at MyMCPL.org.

26 Sunday

29 Wednesday

Holiday Tour 10:00, Bingham-Waggoner Estate. The estate is decked out in holiday splendor. Tours by advanced registration at BWEstate.net/events.

Snow-Ventures Noon, Kansas Children’s Discovery Center. Dive into a winter wonderland with a sock skating rink, learn cool science and more! KansasDiscovery.org

SpongeBob Musical 1:00 or 4:00, Coterie Theatre. Enjoy a performance where SpongeBob powerfully proves that optimism can save the world. TheCoterie.org

27 Monday Messy Car Mondays Thru Jan, KCParent.com. Is winter making your car dirty? KCParent.com is giving away 5 FREE car washes from GO Car Wash.

64 december 2021 kcparent.com

Festival of Lights 4:00, Powell Gardens. Enjoy more than 20 miles of holiday lights that highlight the natural forms of Powell Gardens. PowellGardens.org

30 Thursday Kids Day Out 8:00, Johnson County Museum. Explore KidsScape and museum exhibits, play games, enjoy activities and more! Pre-reg at 913.715.2570.

Noon Year’s Eve 10:00, Activity Center (Overland Park). Party tailored for kids to welcome the new year in style! Pool time, noise makers, treats and more! Pre-reg at BlueValleyRec.org. Paint a Sheep 2:00, Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop and Farm. Create an original painting and help raise money for Mahaffie! Mahaffie.org Polar Bear Passage 10:00 Kansas City Zoo. Visit the zoo’s polar bears in Polar Bear Passage. The zoo is open year-round. KansasCityZoo.org

31 Friday New Year’s Eve

We wish you a happy New Year, KC Parent readers! Outdoor Ice-Skating 10:00, Crown Center Ice Terrace. Bring the family to enjoy a day of skating at Kansas City’s original outdoor iceskating rink. CrownCenter.com Noon Year’s Eve Noon, Science City. Welcome 2022 with family activities in a safe, kid-friendly environment. UnionStation.org

“Holiday Reflections” Step into the Most Magical Sights, Sounds & Selfies of the Season

Nov. 26th thru Dec. 27th inside Union Station

Presented by

• Spectacular New Animated Scenes • Endless Memories at Every Turn • Reserved Timed Tickets start at $5

Historic Mini Holiday Express Train

Join us for the

Spectacular Sights and sounds of the season!

11,000 SQF Holiday Model Train Gallery

UnionStation.org/Holidays for Complete Details and Schedule

12.31.21 Avoid the line

Preorder your tickets today!

Noon-7 pm

• Science Demonstrations • Science Stage Show • Maker Activities • A HUGE Balloon Drop & MORE!

S CIENCE C ITY.COM

Regular admission rates apply. FREE for Union Station Members.

Supported by

Tickets Make Great Holiday Gifts

21185373

YOU'RE INVITED! FREE DRIVE-IN

CHRISTMAS LIGHT DISPLAY SYNCHRONIZED WITH LIVE

MUSICIANS

FRIDAY | SATURDAY | SUNDAY

DECEMBER 3-5, 10-12 6P | 6:45P | 7:30P | 8:15P | 9P

Enjoy the 15-minute show featuring live performances of your christmas favorites like jingle bells and little drummer boy from the comfort of your vehicle. Parking is first-come, first-served. Vehicles will be directed to enter at the north entrance and exit at the south entrance. Automated shows (without live musicians) will run Dec. 13-24 From 6-11pm each night.

LIBERTYLIGHTSHOW.COM PLEASANT VALLEY BAPTIST CHURCH

1600 N 291 Hwy Liberty, MO

KC Parent December 2021

Articles inside

Give Gifts of Experiences

Christmas Countdown

Talking About Disabilities

Tasty Treats

5 Things

Dear Teachers

Word from Dad

Coping with Change

Ask the Experts

Date Night

Media Mix