Ask the Experts

Haley Lefholz

MCPL 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

Megan Maciel

KVC KANSAS 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

Q

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

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.

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

Q

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

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. 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.