KC Parent Magazine March 2012 by KC Parent Magazine

FREE March 2012 KCParent.com 27 years of connecting with kansas city families

let’s camp! KANSAS CITY’S #1 CAMP GUIDE

when ADHD hits your family home ec skills your child needs ultimate spring break staycation ideas

kcparent.com march 2012

healthcare you can trust.

Sallie L. Veenstra, MD Barbara S. Trites, MD Lisa B. Fletcher, MD Deann E. DeWitt, MD Allison C. Henschel, MD Sarah J. Gladstone, MD Bryan L. Phillips, MD Daniel E. Gershon, DO Veronica Manka, MD Jeffrey P. Yannette, MD Jennifer M. Sauer, MD Cynthia M. Dean, DO Kelly R. Fritz, C-PNP Julie Kirkpatrick, C-PNP Camille Lucitto, C-PNP Heather Williams, C-PNP Cindy Fieser, C-PNP Sarah Dedrick, C-PNP Angela Stott, C-PNP

LEE’S SUMMIT Lee’s Summit Physicians 1425 N.W. Blue Parkway Lee’s Summit, Missouri 816.524.5600 Raintree Pediatrics

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LSPhysicians.com • Raintree-Pediatrics.com • BlueSpringsPediatric.com kcparent.com 2 march 2012

Not your average playground.

This April, bring the entire family to Kansas Speedway to see the stars of NASCAR rocketing around the track at 200 mph. The action at Kansas Speedway will be more exciting than ever. • April 22 NASCAR Sprint Cup tickets available now – prices start at $59. • We have more tickets available for $99 or less than ever before. • You can bring in a 14” x 14” x 14” cooler filled with your favorite refreshments. • Parking is free.

866.460.RACE (7223) kansasspeedway.com/kids

APRIL 22 kcparent.com march 2012

REDEFINING PEDIATRIC NEPHROLOGY

ONE CHILD AT A TIME

Children’s Mercy Hospitals and Clinics is leading the largest study of pediatric kidney disease ever conducted in North America. From preventing kidney stones to administering dialysis and consistently delivering some of the best kidney transplant survival rates in the nation, our research and expertise are giving children a clear route to longer, more rewarding lives. To learn more, visit childrensmercy.org.

Ranked one of the “Best Children’s Hospitals” in nephrology by U.S. News & World Report.

kcparent.com march 2012

8" X 10.25" - 4C

kcparent.com march 2012

PARENTING ADS

MARCH 2012 CONTENTS

24 features 24

Ultimate Staycation Hit the slopes and ride the waves without leaving KC

When ADHD Hits Your Family Memorable Spring Break Staycations KC’s #1 Camp Guide

16 20 24 30

FREE March 2012 KCParent.com 27 years of connecting with kansas city families

let’s camp! KANSAS CITY’S #1 CAMP GUIDE

Media Mix

home ec skills your child needs

13 15 27 28 29 59

special sections Education Guide Camp Guide Party Guide

when ADHD hits your family

kcparent.com march 2012

What’s New

Out & About in KC

ultimate spring break staycation ideas

Word from Dad

Healthy Kids

The Common Brat How to inoculate your child against the entitlement bug

Home Ec Skills Your Child Needs

departments Women’s Health

March is a Good Time To Celebrate March with fun ideas for the entire month

on the cover

Calendar of Events

18 30 44 48

kcparent.com march 2012

editor’s letter MARCH 2012

Publisher Michael Gimotty Michael@KCParent.com Associate Publisher Darrell Dean Darrell@KCParent.com Editor Margaret Sarver Margaret@KCParent.com Art Director Lauren Goldman Lauren@KCParent.com

the all-new! At KCParent.com Calendar that’s TWENTY TIMES faster and has TEN TIMES more events! ALL NEW Party, Camp and Education Guides where parents can EASILY search by category & location featuring Google Maps PLUS see photos, video, hyperlinks and social media links. All the LATEST on Family Fun in Kansas City with insider tips on the best of the best PLUS Kids Eat Free and giveaways totaling over $1000 in March (see pg. 50 for details)!

hink back 10 years and remember how much you used technology. I used email and the Internet, but certainly not on a daily basis. As the years have progressed, technology has become woven into the fabric of our lives. Can you even imagine going through a single day completely unplugged? Before I take the girls to an event or location, I’ll jump online to get a feel for what to expect. When trying a new restaurant, I’ll take a peek at the menu before visiting. Facebook allows me to see daily photos of my out-oftown nephew. Three years ago, we revamped our website, KCParent.com. Since then, you’ve made it the go-to site for things to do in KC with your kids, as well as your one-stop shop for party planning, camp selection and educational needs. We’re proud that not only have we been able to serve you, we’ve also been recognized as the Best Parenting Website from the Parenting Media Association. In order to stay on the cutting edge, we are thrilled to unveil our re-revamped KCParent.com. You’ll still find everything you love on the site, along with many new features such as a fully searchable site for events, blogs, a calendar with 10x as many events as before, full interaction with Facebook and social media, a simplified subscription process and a searchable archive of articles from the magazines you’ve come to know and love. Check it out today! March is one of my favorite months (and not only because yours truly celebrates a birthday). With the arrival of March, I feel like there is light at the end of the long, cold winter tunnel. It also brings our annual camp issue. Kansas City is filled with so many fantastic camp choices. Grab two copies of our March issue, one for you to look through and one for your child. You’ll enjoy mapping out a fun-filled summer with your kiddos! Happy Spring, Kansas City!

Margaret Sarver, Editor

kcparent.com march 2012

Advertising Sales Darrell Dean Lynn Hawkins Advertising@KCParent.com Electronic Media Manager Kristina Light Kristina@KCParent.com Event Calendar Marisa Frymire Calendar@KCParent.com Proofreader Susan Crainshaw Susan@KCParent.com Distribution LOCAL To be added to our distribution list, CONTENT e-mail Distribution@KCParent.com Local Contributing Writers Anna Bannister (Lee’s Summit), Bill Bartlett (Belton) Claire Caterer (Shawnee), Kerry Chafin (Independence), Tisha Foley (Belton), Lauren Greenlee (Olathe), Stacey Hatton (Overland Park), Christa Hines (Olathe), Jennifer Higgins (Kearney) Julie Hubble (Leawood), Rebecca Ishum (Kansas City), Kristina Light (Kansas City), Emily McIntyre (Independence), Victoria Pressley (Leavenworth), Hallie Sawyer (Overland Park), Melinda Smith (Olathe), Melanie Yunger (Shawnee) Business Office 11936 W. 119th #335 Overland Park, KS 66213 913.782.3238 phone • 913.681.5139 fax

Find us on Facebook: Facebook.com/KansasCityParent Follow us on Twitter: @KCParent Find us on Foursquare: foursquare.com/kcparent Member of:

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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.

100% Redwood Swing Sets at Factory Direct Pricing spring sale!

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kcparent.com march 2012

local student spreads message against

bullying

Have them sign the pledge: Visit Carson’s website or Facebook group page and print off the ABLE pledge. Have your children sign it at a family dinner and use it as a tool for family discussion. Let them know what you expect of them and what the consequences will be if they bully someone or fail to stand up for someone who is being bullied. You can find Carson on the web at ABLE-Antibullying.org or on Facebook at ABLE Anti-bullying Lifelines and Education. Contact Mikaela Carson, Kansas Teen America 2012 at KansasTeenAmerica2012@yahoo.com or on Facebook.

ullying in all of its various forms has unfortunately been evolving over time rather than dissolving. Within the past few years, with kids’ easy access to cell phones, the Internet and social media, bullying has become a mainstream topic in the news and among parents, students and school administrators. However, one local teen is taking matters into her own hands in an effort to end bullying here in Kansas City. Mikaela Carson, a senior at Shawnee Mission South High School, is a busy teen as a member of the Heritage and Acapella choirs, Repertory Theater, National Honor Society, and touring the country with the Colts Drum and Bugle Corps.Yet, she still dedicates a portion of her time to developing a program called ABLE, Anti Bullying Lifelines and Education. As Miss Kansas Teen, Carson holds a title that gives her a platform to speak to students at area middle schools on the subject of bullying in all its various forms. Mikaela says her goal is to spread the message that anyone can make a difference and even the smallest acts of respect and compassion can change lives. A variety of behaviors contribute to all the different types of bullying. Carson hopes to raise awareness of the less-talked-about relational bullying, such as gossip, spreading rumors and ostracism. She also hopes to shed some light on how these behaviors are just as detrimental as the more traditional forms of bullying. As a student herself, Carson connects well with her audiences, and through ABLE, they can find out how to make a difference themselves in efforts to stop bullying. So far, Carson has been very encouraged by the students’ attentiveness during her presentations, and her impact is showing. Recently, at one of her presentations at Indian Woods Middle School, one student came up and shared her own experience with bullying and how she handled it. Hers was the first signed ABLE SCREENPLAY BY MELiSA WALLACk AND JASoN kELLER DiRECtED BY tARSEM SiNgh pledge, and quickly other students followed suit. Thrilled, Carson was arch able to get several hundred signed pledges that day. The pledges SOME FANTASY ACTION AND MILD RUDE HUMOR mirrormirrorfilm.com were then turned in to the students’ first-hour teachers and posted in SOME FANTASY ACTION AND MILD RUDE HUMOR

The Snow whiTe Legend coMeS aLive

kcparent.com

2012 10 24104marchMIRROR MIRROR PARENTING MAGAZINE

the hallways. Eventually, Carson would like to incorporate parents and engage them in ABLE’s efforts as well. But parents shouldn’t wait for programs like ABLE or for a phone call from school to take a stand against bullying. Here are some things you can do now: Be a role model: • Whether your child is being bullied or bullying, live the life you want your child to live. • Show compassion in your everyday actions. • Don’t gossip or talk about others negatively. • Stand up for those in need of help. • Children’s eyes are watching you, and their actions reflect what they see. Stay involved and be the parent: • Cyberbullying can be more extreme than any other form of bullying because of the far reach of the Internet. It can be anonymous, and it mostly happens in the home where our kids should feel the safest. • Only allow Internet access when you are home and/or in a busy part of the home. Stick to your guns! • Monitor kids’ social media and set up parameters. The more freedom they have, the higher the chances they will be involved in a bullying situation. • Set up their email accounts with them and make sure you have their screen names and passwords. Also, check on the account regularly. • Talk to your kids about what is appropriate to put online and to never respond to bullying online. • Respect age limits on social media sites. The guidelines are in place for a reason, and to falsify your kids’ ages is sending the wrong message. Wait until they are more mature to handle the responsibility.

oNlY At Y CAMp At Y DAY CAMp I can be an Olympic swimmer racing for a gold medal AND a scientist making a new discovery.

At Y DAY CAMp, thE poSSibilitiES ArE ENDlESS.

Kids have the opportunity to explore nature, find new talents, try new activities, gain independence, and make lasting friendships and memories. And, of course, it’s fun too.

Enroll now at YMCASummerFun.org or call 913 345 9622

oUr MiSSioN The YMCA of Greater Kansas City, founded on Christian principles, is a charitable organization with an inclusive environment committed to enriching the quality of family, spiritual, social, mental and physical well-being. A UNITED WAY AGENCY

LEAWOOD PEDIATRICS • Conveniently located office • Front door parking • Electronic medical records • Extended evening and Saturday hours Now E-Prescribing Schedule summer physical now

Hallie Sawyer is a writer from Overland Park with a daughter in middle school. Her daughter’s signed pledge is posted on their refrigerator door.

Another great source for information on how to handle bullying is the National Crime Prevention Council: NCPC.org.

Mary Hamm, MD Megan Loeb, MD Mary Nagy, MD Aundria Speropoulos, MD

5401 College Boulevard, Suite 101 Leawood, Kansas 66211 (College & Nall) (913) 825-DOCS (3627) www.leawoodpediatrics.com kcparent.com march 2012

We don’t address the symptoms of ADHD. We address the cause. At Brain Balance Achievement Centers, we tackle your child’s ADHD at the most fundamental level — with a unique, drug-free, whole-child approach that goes beyond symptoms to address root causes. Every child deserves the opportunity to reach their fullest social and academic potential. Stop in or call to learn more about the Brain Balance Program® and how we can help your child succeed.

Call

Visit

lEaRN MORE

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6406 College Boulevard Overland Park, KS 66211

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kcparent.com march 2012

word from dad

Patience

“L

aura, if you use that word one more time, I’ll hang up,” I told my irritated, teen-aged daughter who had just dropped the “F-Bomb.” I will not tolerate that language from my daughter. Hardly pausing after my ultimatum, Laura used the word again, intentionally frustrating my direction and my authority. “I told you what I’d do if you said that word,” I said, “Good-bye, Laura. Call me when you can use civilized language.” I hung up the phone and waited for it to ring again, but it never did. Parental frustrations evolve as our children grow, but they remain an irritating thorn under our skin. “Why do I bother?” I asked Dad one day after I had reached my limit. “Why don’t I just talk to the walls? At least I know they won’t listen or do what I say. It’d save me tons of aggravation.” “Just be patient,” Dad smiled. “Sometime when you least expect it, you’ll hear your words come from their mouths. Then you’ll know that it was worth all the effort.” Laura outgrew this frustrating stage, and I included her in as many family activities as I could. At a birthday party in Shawnee Mission Park, she sat on a bench and watched over preverbal Ian as he and Nathan, her son, joined an impromptu play group. All the boys were scampering fearlessly around and over the playground equipment when one of the other boys said the “F” word. Laura, in full Mommy mode, stood up. “I don’t think we need to use words like that,” Laura told the boy. “If you do that again, we’ll have to leave.” The little boy stammered his apologies and the play resumed with appropriate language. “You were right again, Dad,” I thought, as my chest swelled with pride. Bill Bartlett lives in Belton with his family.

CONFIDENT HE RT I CAUGHT MY FIRST POP FLY.

YOUTH SPORTS

Y sports provide a structured opportunity for kids to learn the game, improve technique, stay active, build social skills, gain confidence and develop leadership. The focus is on teamwork in a positive environment where everyone plays and everyone is part of the team.

Rapunzel: Enroll now at KansasCityYMCA.org

OUR MISSION The YMCA of Greater Kansas City, founded on Christian principles, is a charitable organization with an inclusive environment committed to enriching the quality of family, spiritual, social, mental and physical well-being. A UNITED WAY AGENCY

March 7- April 1 at Paul Mesner Puppet Studio

Come see a veggie wonderful love story about two avid gardeners, Okra and Romaine, who meet, marry and have a beautiful daughter named Rapunzel. A witch who forced Romaine to promise that he would give up his first-born child many months before, returns to claim the lovely child for her own. Rapunzel is taken to live in a tower and her future looks bleak until the Prince arrives…and Rapunzel hatches a plan to escape her evil captor and leaf happily ever alfalfa.

Buy one adult ticket and get one child ticket FREE! Valid for daytime performances only. Exp 3-31-12. Must redeem at box office.

photo credit: gettheumbrella.com

Paul Mesner Puppet Studio • 1006 E. Linwood Blvd., • Kansas City, MO 64109 PaulMesnerPuppets.org • Central Ticket Office, 816-235-6222 kcparent.com march 2012

Test anxiety is a recognized psychological condition. Physical signs include: headache • nausea • butterflies cold clammy hands • perspiration increased heart rate • dry mouth lightheadedness. Emotional signs include: fear of failure • feeling helpless depression • irritability • difficulty recalling and remembering learned information • preoccupation with negative thoughts about performance.

tame the butterflies

hese days, kids are taking more tests—and earlier—than ever before. Anxiety over a pressure to perform academically or athletically is an increasing problem that affects a wide age range of children. Some stress is to be expected and is normal, but keep an eye out for severe anxiety symptoms. Here are some tips to help tame the butterflies.

[before the big day] Be Positive. If your child gets stuck in a negativity loop, to neutralize negative thoughts have them think of anything that makes them feel good, and stay calm and positive yourself. Run through practice tests with your child to build confidence. The real test should feel like nothing new. Kick a soccer ball around. Even if you’re terrible at it, you’ll boost your child’s confidence in his abilities and have some fun. Get Organized. Clutter is a distraction. Have your child organize a workspace or any needed equipment in advance so when the time comes, she is prepared. Create worksheets to help your child identify how much training or studying time she needs and when. Also, set minor pre-goals to work toward, which will make the big one seems less daunting. Factor in your child’s attention span. If you push beyond it—without breaks—that time will prove fruitless. Talk It Through. What are your child’s fears? Is she afraid of failing a big test and not getting into medical school? Is he worried he’ll trip on the field and look like a doofus in front of his friends? What are the what if’s? Check out PBSKids.org printable resources online.

[the night before] Growing young minds around the world.

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kcparent.com march 2012

14 2012-01_kc_family_ad Wednesday, February 08, 2012 12:03 page 1

Avoid Cramming. Dr. Michelle Borba, award-winning author of 22 parenting and educational books, knows cramming is counterproductive. “Test-anxious kids figure they will worry less by putting their studying off and then cramming at the last minute. But it backfires and instead increases anxiety,” she says. If your child has developed good study habits, she shouldn’t need to cram. Try doing something fun or relaxing with her the night before. Have family game night. Sleep. The recommended minimum is 8 to 10 hours. A Twitter poll shows that most parents believe that a good breakfast and a good night’s sleep are the keys to squashing jitters.

[on the day] Eat a Good Breakfast. An empty belly will leave your child distracted and unable to focus or perform. Stuff them full of protein and complex carbohydrates that provide sustaining energy and nutrition. Try eggs, cereal or oatmeal for example. Relax. A teen I know practices yoga breathing and stretching techniques before exams. If your loved one isn’t keen on swinging into a few sun salutations in front of his friends, closing his eyes, deep breathing and consciously relaxing will help. Victoria Pressley lives in Leavenworth with her family.

women’s health

Decreasing Risks for Seasonal Allergies

pring is in the air and, as tempting as it may be to get outside to enjoy the warmer weather or open your windows for the wonderful spring breeze, you may think twice if you suffer from spring allergies. Allergies are diseases of the immune system that cause an overreaction to certain substances called allergens. There are many different types of allergies, and outdoor allergies are commonly referred to as hay fever. Hay fever occurs when allergens such as pollen from trees, weeds or grass or mold spores are inhaled into the nose and lungs. Much pollen is released in the early morning hours, from 5:00 to 10:00, and travels best on warm, dry, breezy days.

Prevention The American Association of Colleges of Nursing lists several preventative measures in their book Ask a Nurse: From Home Care to Hospitals: • Read product labels carefully to avoid substances you react to. • Use an air conditioner or air purifier. • Get rid of dust collectors such as carpet, throw pillows and drapes. • Increase your dietary intake of essential fatty acids. • Increase your dietary intake of vitamin C to at least 1,000 mg daily. • Keep windows/doors closed and avoid outdoor activity when pollen counts are high. • Use a dehumidifier to reduce growth of dust mites, molds and fungi during summer months. • Encase your mattress and pillows in plastic to reduce the amount of dust mite particles in the air. • Avoid doing yard work, mowing or raking leaves. • Change clothes and shower as soon as possible after outdoor activities to get rid of pollen. If you find these tips helpful but you still continue to have symptoms of seasonal allergies, you may want to visit with your doctor or asthma/allergy specialist. Melanie Yunger is a nurse practitioner and freelance writer who resides in the Kansas City area.

BRAVE HE RTS WE ARE NOT AFRAID OF THE WATER ANYMORE.

SWIM LESSONS Our programs are about more than just the techniques and strokes. They are about nurturing life-saving swimming skills, developing self-esteem and creating positive experiences that will last a lifetime.

Enroll now at KansasCityYMCA.org OUR MISSION The YMCA of Greater Kansas City, founded on Christian principles, is a charitable organization with an inclusive environment committed to enriching the quality of family, spiritual, social, mental and physical well-being. A UNITED WAY AGENCY

Dr. Michael Kemmling

Dental care for the entire family Up-to-date, paperless office: digital x-rays, laser technology, free WiFi Many in-house procedures: Same day Cerec crowns Perio Root Canals Pedo Oral surgery Implants We accept most major insurances

Accepting new patients 17214 Midland Drive, Shawnee, KS 66217 • Telephone: (913) 396-4800 www.capstonedentistry.com • contact@capstonedentistry.com kcparent.com march 2012

Home Ec Skills All Kids Should Know

remember very little from my home economics classes. I have proof of my time there—a handmade pillow and a deepseated need to set the liquid measuring cup on the counter to look at the level—but that’s about it. I’ve spent hours on the phone with my mother or with my nose in a book trying to figure out how to cook, sew and make household repairs. We live in a time where home economics is becoming a lost art, and when we need to impart these skills now, more than ever we shouldn’t rely only on schools to do it. Although times have changed significantly, gender issues still influence who studies home economics. But the fact is all boys should have basic sewing skills, and all girls should know how to use a screw gun. Build on what the schools teach to assure your children have a head start in their everyday lives.

1. COOKING Every child, boy or girl, needs to know how to cook. Many of us are part of a generation where the takeout menu reigns supreme, and it’s common to have only the basics of cooking skills. Go farther and teach them how to buy and cook fresh produce; this is your chance to set them on a path to healthy eating habits.

2. SEWING Kids may not need to know how to sew a couture ball gown, but they should know how to repair a rip and sew on a button. Having sewing machine know-how is an enormously useful skill, too. The more they know, the better.

3. LAUNDRY

All boys should have basic sewing skills, and all girls should know how to use a screw gun.

I know so many adults who have yet to learn how to remove a stain. While they all have managed to figure out the intricacies of a washer and dryer, juice stains remain a great mystery. When kids are old enough to do laundry themselves, teach them. When they can wash their own clothes, they have an important life skill, and you have one less chore on your plate.

4. TOOLS Every child should know how to use tools. From hammer to chop saw, each tool, its use and how to use it will be information for which your child will always be thankful.

5. HOUSEHOLD REPAIRS Beyond knowing what a tool does, kids

kcparent.com march 2012

should know how to make basic household repairs. Knowing how to fix a leaky faucet or a hole in the drywall will save them a lot of money and time later on in their own lives.

6. BALANCE A CHECKBOOK We live in a time where personal debt is starting to choke us all. Teaching our children to balance a checkbook and budget their household finances will help them to avoid problems with credit cards and loans later on. Start early and make it fun. Play store with Monopoly money and prices on their toys. Don’t avoid talking about the family budget and finances. This can be a great way to learn how finances work in the real world.

7. CLEANING More than just dusting and vacuuming, learning how to clean should also include lessons on chemical safety, what each cleaner does and how to clean safely.

8. BASIC YARD WORK When your kids are old enough, teach them how to use that lawn mower and to rake leaves. Remember to let them know why picking up sticks is so important.

Does your child have a language delay? Effects of Adult Speech on Grammar Development in Preschoolers with Specific Language Delay

RESEARCH QUESTION

Does the way children learn grammar depend on how adults talk to them?

BENEFITS

Caregivers receive a summary of all testing for their child and are Effects of Adult Speech on Grammar Developmen compensated for costs of each trip to KUMC. Children receive a gift in Preschoolers with Specific Language Delay card good for new books. PURPOSE

BENEFITS

Caregivers receive a summary of WHO QUALIFIES?

To study the effects of adult speech on grammatical development of Children 4 and preschoolers with language delay.

testing for their child, whether or n 5 years old with the child qualifies for the study. developmental delays that appear to WHO QUALIFIES? be specific to language. CAREGIVER Children 4 and 5 years old with RESPONSIBILITIES

developmental delays that appear to be specific to language.

Bring your child to KUMC for up

evaluations of you CAREGIVER 4 preliminary child’s communication skills. Attend 10 study sessions RESPONSIBILITIES at KUMC or at home.

Bring your child to KUMC for up to 5 preliminary of yourDevelopment Effects of Adult Speech evaluations on Grammar child’sContact: communication skills. Dr. Marc E. Fey Attend 10 & study sessions KUMC or atCenter Hearing Speech Dept. •atKU Medical (913) home.588-0574 • mfey@kumc.edu

or visit our website alliedhealth.kumc.edu/school/research/fey Effects of Adult Speech on Grammar Development

Contact: Dr. Marc E. Fey Hearing & Speech Dept. • KU Medical Center (913) 588-0574 • mfey@kumc.edu or visit our website alliedhealth.kumc.edu/school/research/fey

9. GARDENING Along with mowing and mulching, knowing how to plant their own garden is a beneficial life skill for children. Teach them about seasonal produce and what to plant when.

10. CAR MAINTENANCE Kids may not need to know how to rebuild an engine, but they should at least know where it is. Knowing how to change a flat and check the oil should be a part of learning to drive. As parents, we want to give our children all the skills they need to live a good life. These daily skills will help them achieve that goal. But what if we don’t know how to do all these things ourselves? Learn together! JCCC and MCC have great classes. Or take a trip to the public library—they have how-to books on every subject. Grab one and learn these skills with your child.You will love having new skills and benefit from the quality time together.

We’re looking for healthy women who want to help infertile couples. If you’re between 21 and 29 years old and have had at least one child, consider participating in our egg donation program. Compensation is provided and all donors are anonymous. For information call: (913) 894-2323

Kerry Chafin is a freelance writer based in Independence and a guide to “Mom Recommends” on About.com. She spends the rest of her time teaching her three children cooking, sewing and woodworking—whether they like it or not. kcparent.com march 2012

Special Advertising Section

Interactive Education Guide available at KCParent.com

to enable your child to learn and experience life though a hands-on approach in an atmosphere where they feel good about themselves and the world around them. Field trips, computer classes and summer swimming lessons are also offered at an additional fee. Building Blocks is located at College & Lackman in Southlake Technology Park. 913.888.7244. See display ad onp pg. 19. www.BuildingBlocksCDC.com

Special Beginnings Early Learning

Serving the community for over 20 years, Special Beginnings has 4 JOCO locations in Lenexa, Olathe and Overland Park. Special Beginnings provides a quality program within a safe, loving, Christian environment. The programs have earned NAC national accreditation. Well-balanced, pre-academic curriculum includes art, music, cooking, and an innovative early wellness program. Serving infant through school age children. Open 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. M-F. See display ad to receive a $100 tuition credit. See display ad on pg. 22. www.SpecialBeginningsOnline.com

KC Parent’s

Education Guide

Early Childhood

All 4 KIDS Christian Day Care & Preschool

Offering full- and part-time daycare and preschool for ages 1-5, our focus is to provide a Christian learning environment while helping parents to grow the whole child both spiritually and intellectually. Our age based Christian curriculum will promote the love of reading, the world of numbers,

values and character building. Quality teachers will sing, read, talk and listen, and your child will feel secure in their home away from home. See display ad on pg. 19. 913.764.0300. www.All4KidsChristianDaycare.com

Building Blocks

Building Blocks is a privately owned and operated child development center for children ages 2½ pre-kindergarten. At Building Blocks our goal is

St. Paul’s Preschool

Serving children 2-5 yrs., our caring staff is dedicated to early childhood education and family relationships, highlighting all the “basics” needed for a successful entry to kindergarten while offering so much more! Unique components include, the “Art Studio” introduction to master artists,” Jesus and Me” Montessori curriculum, “Nature Adventures” outdoor exploration, “GrandFriends” intergenerational program, and “Music Instruction.” The Learning Center environment is nestled in a wooded park-like setting. 913.631.0101. See display ad on pg. 19. www.StPaulsLenexa.org

Wee Workshop

Wee Workshop has been serving Southern Johnson County for nearly twenty-two years as a family owned business. Full time childcare is offered for ages two weeks to five years. After school and full time summer care is also provided. Additional programs offered include part-time Preschool for ages three to five during the school year, and Mother’s Day Out for ages one and two. We’re open year round, Monday through Friday, 6:30 a.m.-6:00 p.m. Call 913.681.2190 (OP) or 913.681.2191 (Stilwell) for more information. See If your child is facing challenges in school, “excelling” may seem out of reach. We specialize in working with students who don’t always “fit into the box.” For more than 30 years, concerned parents have turned to the Accelerated Schools for individualized learning programs that help students of all academic levels with unique educational needs overcome challenges and excel academically. The after school Learning Center provides individualized tutoring for students in grades 1-12. • Accredited • Grades 4 - 12 • Daily Report Cards • Low Student-Teacher ratio • Effective Reward System • Transportation Available

The Accelerated Schools of Overland Park 10713 Barkley St., Overland Park, KS Call or visit our website: 913-341-6666 www.AcceleratedSchoolsOP.org

kcparent.com march 2012

display ad on pg. 19 for a free week coupon. www.WeeWorkshopChildCare.com

Elementary - High School

Accelerated Schools of Overland Park

For over 30 years, Accelerated Schools of Overland Park has provided individualized learning programs that help students who do not “fit in the box” overcome challenges and excel academically. The school provides a structured environment, low teacher/student ratio, daily reports to parents, realistic homework expectations, and an effective reward and management system. Developing strong study skills and scheduling a wide variety of educational field trips are important components of the program. See display ad on pg. 18. 913.341.6666 or www.AcceleratedSchoolsOP.org.

Brookridge Day School

We believe that the secret to learning is within the child rather than the method. We offer an

“The Building Blocks for your Child’s Future”

Child Development Center • Preschool, Pre-kindergarten & Child Care • Starting at age 2 1/2 • Open 7:00 am - 6:00 pm • Located at College & Lackman in Southlake Technology Park • Privately owned & operated

education with positive, enriching experiences inside a loving environment. Our goal is to create a classroom where the child is exposed to as many different ways to learn as possible, enhancing the probability of successful learning for every learner. Ballet, tap, gymnastics, Tae Kwon Do offered on campus. Before & after school care included. Tours: 913.649.2228. See display ad on pg. 22. www.BrookridgeDaySchool.com

Faith Academy

Committed to training up leaders through educating students in a Christ-centered environment, Faith Academy delivers a quality Christian and college preparatory education. Our pre-school has an enriched curriculum focusing on phonics, reading and math. Students enjoy a state-of-the-art basketball and volleyball facility. Our after school program consists of computer classes taught in our technology center, dance, drama, art and music. Enrolling students age 6 weeks-high school. 816.455.2847. See display ad on pg. 19. www.MyFaithAcademy.org

Heritage Christian Academy

Heritage Christian Academy is a Christ-centered Pre-K to 12th grade college preparatory school in south Johnson County. Heritage integrates academic excellence with a Biblical worldview in a nurturing environment. The School’s goal is to develop the God-given potential of each unique student by educating the whole person. In addition to the commitment to academic excellence, Heritage offers a dynamic fine arts and athletic program. For more information contact the central office at 913.681.7622. See display ad on pg. 21. www.HCAKC.org

Maranatha Academy

Those who believe a quality education should include an emphasis on the development of Christian character, wisdom beyond the accumulation of information and knowledge, and a lifestyle of service and responsible citizenship would feel right at home at Maranatha Academy. Besides a rigorous academic curriculum, students have continued on pg. 22

Wee Workshop

Child Development Center Ages Two weeks to Twelve Years Part Time Preschool Mom’s Day Out Two Convenient Locations: 127th Antioch & 162nd Metcalf Ave 913.681.2190 913.681.2191 weeworkshopchildcare.com Locally Owned and Operated!

FREE

Enjoy one week of FREE child care after 3 weeks at either location!

913.888.7244

www.buildingblockscdc.com

ENROLLING NOW!

Partnering with families to develop confident, balanced children with a desire for life long learning and spiritual growth.

New families only. Limited time only. One coupon per customer. Not valid with any other offer. Coupon void if altered. Part-time preschool program excluded. Exp. 3.31.12.

Music

Art

Nature

Jesus

NOW ENROLLING FOR 2012-13 7740 Lackman Rd. Lenexa, KS 66217 913-631-0101 www.stpaulslenexa.org kcparent.com march 2012

education guide

ADHD

AFTER THE DIAGNOSIS:

Gain power through information, and

your family will feel better prepared.

Summit Christian Academy

tepping out of the doctor’s office, arms loaded with pamphlets and prescriptions, you feel a little shell-shocked. Your child has just been diagnosed with Attention Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). What do you do now?

1. Relax. You’re Not Alone.

The Centers for Disease Control reports that more than one in 10 American children ages 4 to 17 have been diagnosed with ADHD. While that’s a sobering statistic, it means a lot of parents know how you feel and are eager to share information and support. Take a deep breath. Plan on taking a couple of hours (after a day or two) to begin your research. Just knowing you’ve scheduled the time will take some pressure off. Then go do something fun with your child. Remember, she’s the same kid she was yesterday.

2. Do Your Research.

Not all information you’ll find is equally valid. Ask your child’s diagnosing doctor for a list of reliable resources. Check out the sidebar in this article for even more information. Avoid websites that prey on worried parents by touting “miracle cures.” If it sounds too good to be true, follow your gut.

4. Start with the Easy Stuff.

660 Preschool-12th Grade Students 13:1 Student/Teacher Ratio College Preparatory • Biblical Worldview 46 Hours of College Credit Offered Average Composite ACT of 25.2 in 2011 International Program Athletics • Fine Arts 36-Acre Campus in Lee’s Summit Member of MSHSAA

Enrolling now for 2012-13 Call 816.525.1480 summit-christian-academy.org SCA admits students of any race, color, and national or ethnic origin.

kcparent.com march 2012

While prescriptions, school meetings and counseling may be required, parents can implement some simple strategies at home to take the edge off ADHD symptoms. The American Academy of Pediatrics advocates instituting structure where it’s lacking, whether that’s homework time, bedtime or the morning routine. Minimize distractions like constantly blaring TVs and loud music. Dialing back the chaos helps quiet everyone’s mind. Consider your discipline strategies as well. “Parents should learn proactive—not reactive—discipline methods that teach and reward appropriate behavior,” says the website for the National Resource Center for AD/HD. Methods like those outlined in Thomas W. Phelan’s popular book 1-2-3 Magic (see sidebar) often work wonders for ADHD children.

5. Know Your Options.

Many parents are leery of starting their kids on long-term medications, but a prescription is only one piece of the treatment plan. Be sure your doctor is on board with the multimodal approach advocated by the Centers for Disease Control and other experts. Counseling and behavioral intervention at home and at school will help maximize your child’s academic and social skills.

RESOURCES FOR ADHD ADHD: What Every Parent Should Know Michael I. Reiff, M.D. American Academy of Pediatrics, $16.95 Includes solid recommendations on diagnosis, treatment, medications and lifestyle strategies for patients with ADHD. The Brain Balance Achievement Center 6406 College Blvd. Overland Park, KS 66211 913.627.9400 BrainBalanceCenters.com Provides assessment and a custom-designed alternative treatment program to treat symptoms of ADD and ADHD. Disconnected Kids Dr. Robert Melillo Perigree, $15.95 Outlines Melillo’s theories of ADHD and how to implement Brain Balance techniques at home. National Resource Center on ADHD Help4ADHD.org Offers solid research on diagnosis and treatment for ADHD. For detailed information on assessing alternative treatments, go to Help4ADHD.org/en/Treatment/Complementary. 1-2-3 Magic: Effective Discipline for Children 2–12 Thomas W. Phelan, Ph.D. ParentMagic, $14.95 Presents strategies for noncombative discipline and how to handle homework time, organization, chores, bedtime and more.

Alternative therapies include biofeedback, dietary adjustments and other treatments. Dr. Robert Melillo developed a program in 1994 to address what he believes is the cause of ADHD symptoms—a miscommunication between the brain’s hemispheres. The Brain Balance Achievement Center in Overland Park is one of several centers nationwide that administer Melillo’s treatments. Karen Rossetti, director for the local center, says that while Brain Balance therapies aren’t a cure, many patients make remarkable gains, even to the point of discontinuing their medication. Along with onsite therapies that address sensory and motor balance, as well as academic exercises, the program includes making major lifestyle changes. Kids are counseled to limit their screen time to one hour daily, increase their physical activity and, in some cases, alter their diets. “We can do some really great work with [kids] here physically, but half the program is done at home,” says Rossetti, so the family commitment must be significant. Parents may find it useful to explore this approach by first reading Melillo’s book (see recources box). Uncertainty and anxiety are normal responses when confronted with your child’s new diagnosis. Empower yourself through thorough research and information gathering, and your family will feel better prepared to face the challenges ahead. Shawnee resident Claire M. Caterer writes frequently about special needs and other parenting issues.

South Johnson County’s Largest Christ-Centered

Pre K-12th Gr ade College Prepar atory School Currently Serving more than 475 students • Nurturing Environment • Limited Class Size • Dynamic Fine Arts Program • Athletics/Band beginning in 5th grade • College Prep Curriculum • Honors & Dual Credits

Elementary Open House March 8, 9-11 am April 12, 9-11 am

Junior/Senior High Campus Tours are available upon request.

east campus (Elementary/Central Office) 9333 West 159th Street Overland Park, KS 66221 P 913.681.7622

west campus (Junior/Senior High) 16000 Blackbob Road Olathe, KS 66062 P 913.782.3262

Visit

hcakc.org

for more information. kcparent.com march 2012

Special Beginnings Early Learning Center

Creating your story at JCCC …

now open at 6:00 am

M-F 6 am to 6 pm

Nicole, Student Johnson County Community College 12345 College Blvd., Overland Park, KS 913-469-3803 | www.jccc.edu “Like” JCCC at facebook.com/JCCC411

many avenues in which to excel, including athletics, visual or performing arts, National Honor Society, Scholar Bowl, student council, community service, yearbook, journalism, and more. 913.631.0637. See display ad on pg. 18. www.MA-KC.org

Missouri Military Academy

PT or FT schedule

“You can do it! You can totally do it!”

education guide

Infants to 12 years

Quality Christian early care and education for over 20 years! OLATHE

Infants-Prekindergarten 14169 Murlen Rd 913.393.2223

OVERLAND PARK Infants-School Age 8205 W 108th Terr 913-378-1075

LENEXA

10216 Pflumm Rd, 913-894-0131 Register TODAY & receive $100 credit upon enrollment!

Missouri Military Academy is one of the premier all-boy private military boarding schools in the country. Educating young men in grades 6-12 for more than 120 years. MMA has an impressive record of college admission and thousands of accomplished alumni who have assumed positions of authority in business, finance, law, education, the arts and the military. Located in Mexico, Mo., MMA’s boarding and activities programs offer 11 varsity sports, marching band, drama, Army JROTC, Cadet Chorus, drill team and Boy Scouts. For more information see our website. 573.581.1776. See display ad on pg. 35. www.MissouriMilitaryAcademy.org

Summit Christian Academy (SCA)

SCA is a college-preparatory, nondenominational Christian school in the Kansas City, Missouri, area. Serving over 660 students from preschool through 12th grade, SCA is fully accredited by the Association of Christian Schools International and the North Central Association. The 36-acre campus includes both an elementary and secondary facility. SCA offers extensive extracurricular activities including fine arts, athletics, and academic groups. Teachers are fully certified and are chosen for their ability to inspire students. Call 816.525.1480 or email scoats@sca-kc.org to schedule a private tour or appointment. See display ad on pg. 20. www.Summit-Christian-Academy.org

Colleges and Universities

Johnson County Community College

With 100+ transfer agreements with area colleges and universities, you choose a specific major here and take the courses needed to complete your degree at a four-year school. JCCC also offers 50+ one-year certificate and two-year associate degree and certificate programs. JCCC students find time for fun! Concerts, plays, comedians, movies, sports, 50+ special interest clubs, student governance, lectures and campus forums are some of the activities students enjoy. 913.469.3803. See display ad on pg. 22. www.JCCC.edu

Accredited Kindergarten thru 3rd Grade

Enrichment

Preschool licensed by K.D.H.E

Rapid Road to Reading

Parent Friendly Hours - 6:45 am to 6:00 pm Full-time/Part-time Preschool Available Minutes from 69 Hwy., I-35 & I-435

Enrollment currently open to the public. Call for a tour now!

kcparent.com march 2012

The Rapid Road to Reading learning center provides one-to-one interactive instruction for students K- 6th grade. Our program incorporates a variety of instructional methods that result in high rates of literacy achievement. While learning to recognize the sounds of letter combinations and sight words, students master skills needed to crack the code of reading. The emphasis on expanding our students’ vocabulary and teaching them to associate nouns with images and verbs with actions is integral to improving reading comprehension. 913.317.5515. See display ad on pg. 19. www.RapidRoadToReading.com

think your life is busy?

snapshot of a kc quad mom’s life 5:45 a.m. I turn off my alarm clock in my sleep and roll over. I’m still exhausted from yesterday. 6:07 a.m. Sean wakes me as he is taking the boys downstairs to eat. He always manages to get up first and warm the bottles so that we can feed the babies together before he leaves for work. When the boys finish, we put them back to bed, feed the girls, and then put them back to bed. 7:25 a.m. Sean gets ready and leaves for work while I exercise or clean the house. At the last minute, I jump in the shower before needing to get the kids up again. 9:10 a.m. Debbie, our occupational therapist, arrives to work with the kids. Because they were preemies, they need extra help learning how to do simple things like sit, crawl and eat. Today is Elijah’s turn. He hates therapy. Lots of screaming ensues. 9:50 a.m. We start our morning cereal. Debbie works one-on-one with Abby as she has eating difficulties, and I shovel food in the mouths of the other three as fast as I can. One bowl, one spoon, going right down the line. When the bowl is empty, we clean up the kids, and Debbie leaves. 10:15 a.m. Bottle time! Thank goodness they eat faster than they did when they first came home! 11:20 a.m. The babies have independent playtime while I try to get a few things done around the house. This is punctuated with the occasional, “Ellie, get off of Caleb” or “Eli, you can’t take toys away from your siblings.” There is also a foul stench filling the air. I mentally guess the number of poopy babies before I start sniffing backsides. 12:15 p.m. Playtime with Mommy! I try to make sure that I read to them every day. Caleb especially enjoys looking at the pictures as I read. 12:50 p.m. A glance at the clock tells me that I need to grab some quick lunch. The morning always speeds by. 1:05 p.m. “Cita,” my mom, comes to help me today, and the babies excitedly grin at her. I love having visiting time with my mom while she helps me feed! 2:20 p.m. Each baby gets a kiss, as we lay them in their cribs for naptime. After helping me fold the basket of laundry sitting on the couch, my mom heads out the door. 2:45 p.m. I finally sit down to take a break for the first time today. I’m beat. This is the part of the day when I always have the same debate with myself: To nap or not to nap? Pretty sure “no nap” is going to win today. There is too much to do. 3:00 p.m. I spend the next two hours working around the house. The kids are quiet the whole time, and I’m grateful for the mental space. 5:15 p.m. Sean arrives home from work, and we get the babies

Caleb, Abigail, Elizabeth & Elijah edahlphotography.com

up for their dinner bottles. Sean is an awesome partner in our marriage. I’m beyond grateful for him! 6:35 p.m. I head back to the kitchen to finish putting dinner on the table while Sean lies on the floor with the kids. Lots of giggles can be heard drifting through the house. The babies are always excited when Daddy comes home to play! 7:10 p.m. Sean and I sit down to eat dinner while the babies play in the living room. We can see them from where we sit, but there is also enough distance that we can hear each other talk…for the most part. Fifteen minutes later, the noise level has outpaced us, and we need to tend to the babies. 7:25 p.m. We clean up dinner and head back to the living room. I start writing a blog post and he grabs a book. We flip on “Baby Einstein” for a few minutes of quiet. 7:40 p.m. All six of us lie on the floor together, and the kids keep playing while Sean reads a chapter from the Bible. Then we goof off with the kids for a couple more minutes before we start our last bottle feeding of the day. 8:00 p.m.This bottle feeding either goes very quickly if they are more hungry than tired, or very slowly if they are more tired than hungry. Thankfully, they are hungry tonight. 9:00 p.m. All of the kids are in their cribs. We have a bedtime prayer, kiss each of them, and head out the door. Our kids are great sleepers, and after a few minutes of babbling, we don’t hear anything else from their bedroom. 9:05 p.m. Sean and I take a little time to relax while reading, blogging and watching TV. 10:30 p.m. We head to bed. Sleep comes in less than three minutes. That’s a good thing. Because tomorrow we get up and do it all again. Rebecca Ishum lives with her husband and 1-year-old quadruplets in south KC where she rarely experiences a “normal day.” She prefers to consider what makes a successful day: the babies are fed, clean, happy and have survived to see tomorrow!

kcparent.com march 2012

KCP TRAVEL

The Ultimate Destination Staycation fulfilling their wildest dreams with the “next best thing” for spring break

“Mom doesn’t let us watch much television during the school year. I want to veg out with movies.” Jordan, 9

Your kids are dreaming of the best spring break ever. The Joneses are vacationing in Aspen, the Smiths are heading to the beach and you’re unable to break away for the week, so you find yourself homebound. This year, surprise your kids with the “next best thing” and plan an unforgettable spring break week fulfilling their wildest dreams—all without leaving town!

Destination: Movie Magic Turn family movie night up a notch and create your own home theater. Have the kids design movie tickets and their own concession stand, complete with favorite theater snacks. Experiment with popcorn recipes (Popcorn.org) and pop in your favorite film or try a new one. Or treat the kids to one of AMC’s ultimate movie experiences. Towering screens immerse you in fantastic and exciting worlds at AMC’s four IMAX locations across the Metro.You also can enjoy dinner and a movie at AMC’s Fork & Screen, a one-ofa-kind experience where theatergoers enjoy personal recliners and seat-side service at the push of a button and where a full menu of casual dining choices is offered. Kansas City boasts two Fork & Screen theaters: 1400 Main St., KCMO & 12075 S. Strang Line Rd., Olathe (guests 18 and under must be accompanied by an adult). Call 888.AMC.4FUN for showtimes.

5 Best Apps for Staycations 1. Kids Meal Deals: This free app shows restaurants near your current GPS location that offer great kids’ meal deals ranging from kids eat free to discounted meals each day of the week. 2. FoodSpotting: This app displays usersubmitted pictures of food and dishes at nearby restaurants. After all, delicious pizza means entirely different things to a native St. Louisan, New Yorker or Kansas Citian, and it’s always nice to know in advance just what to expect. 3. Places: This is the perfect app for the mom-on-the-go. Quickly search for restaurants, ATMs, gas stations, attractions and more from your current GPS location. The app provides driving directions, photos of venues and user reviews. 4. MovieFone: Find movies and showtimes near you, view movie trailers and read reviews. 5. YellowPages: Find gas prices near you and restaurants by price, cuisine or ambiance (and read menus). You can also review local businesses, access local coupons and find nearby businesses and attractions, all at your fingertips.

kcparent.com march 2012

“If I could go anywhere for spring break, I’d go on a ski trip.” Angela, 16

Destination: Hit the Slopes Bid a final adieu to winter before officially welcoming spring with a day of snowboarding and skiing at Snow Creek Ski Resort (816.640.2200) in Weston, just 45 minutes from KC. The resort is only open the first few weeks in March, so be sure to make plans now. Snow Creek offers skiing, snow-boarding and lessons for beginners. While you’re in Weston, be sure to visit O’Malley’s (500 Welt St., 816.640.5235), one of the region’s most authentic Irish pubs, and stroll Main Street that’s lined with quaint eateries, boutiques and museums. If you’re taking to Colorado to hit some bigger slopes, visit KCParent.com for tips on skiing with kids.

Destination: Make Some Waves!

“I want to go to the beach!” Savannah, 7

KCP TRAVEL

Your kids will have the time of their lives at Kansas City’s indoor water park, CoCo Key (816.737.0200), featuring 55,000 square feet of indoor fun with a wading pool, slides, fast tube rides, activity pools and more! Many local community centers also offer terrific indoor pools with additional amenities. Our favorite inexpensive fun-filled options are: Matt Ross Community Center in Overland Park (913.895.6350) with a lappool, zerodepth entry pool, spray toys, an 18-ft. water slide for swimmers, water bucket drop and a lazy river; Legacy Park Community Center in Lee’s Sumit (816.969.1550) with a 141-ft. figure-eight water slide, spray features, large play area, zero-depth beach entrance, four 20-yard lap lanes, current channel and hot tub; and The View Community Center in Grandview (816.316.4888), featuring a lap pool, zero-depth recreation pool, lazy river, coconut tree, umbrella, spray features and a 22-ft.-high slide. Or, find a pool near you with our complete list of indoor pools in KC on KCGoingPlaces.com.

“Adventure is my middle name. Okay, maybe it’s not, but I wish it was. That would be cool!” Jake, 11

Destination: Free Family Fun

Destination: Adrenaline Rush A little friendly competition is good among family and even better when it’s daring and dangerous. Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to avoid obstacles as you combat your opponent in an exhilarating game of laser tag at the northland’s newest attraction, the Maze Craze (816.587.MAZE). The Maze Craze offers multiple levels of mazes, including the ultimate challenge: a high-tech arena with black lighting, fluorescent graphics and intriguing obstacles creating the ultimate laser tag backdrop. Head underground for a game of paintball at Jaegers (816.452.6600), where you compete in a cave or “top side” with an outdoor obstacle course. Or, put the pedal to the metal and race go-karts outdoors at Cool Crest (816.358.0088) or Paradise Park (816.246.5224), where you can also enjoy miniature golf, arcades and more. Or head inside where you can race state-of-the-art European gokarts at Sadlers (913.768.7700).

“I’d love to fulfill my kids’ wildest dreams, but I’m on a budget.” Sarah, local mom

Kansas City offers many terrific free outings, and some of them can only be enjoyed during the week. Younger children always love to visit Kaleidoscope (HallmarkKaleidoscope.com), the free hands-on art center for children, where they create masterpieces with super-cool, fun supplies in an amazing one-ofa-kind setting that only Hallmark and Crayola could create. While you’re there, visit Crown Center and their free Animal Tails & Trails exhibit. Enjoy lunch at Fritz’s Railroad Restaurant where model trains deliver food to your table, or dine on delicatessen pizza at d’Bronx. One of our top picks for visitors ages 12 and up is a tour of the Harley-Davidson Factory (816.270.8023, weekdays from 9:00 to 1:30). Guests watch robotic welding, laser cutting, frame bending, polishing and assembly of motorcycles from start to finish. And, the ultimate tour for frugal families is a visit to the Money Museum (1 Memorial Dr., KCMO, 816.881.2683, open weekdays from 8:30 to 4:30 for walk-in tours), where they give you money just for participating! Tour the facility with interactive exhibits exploring banking, basic economics and the financial policies that affect your family. The highlight of the tour is the free souvenir bag of shredded cash for each visitor. These ideas are just the beginning. Visit KCGoingPlaces.com for 500+ attractions in the Metro all begging to be explored. Kristina Light loves to plan unforgettable staycations. kcparent.com march 2012

KCP TRAVEL

Visit KCParent.com for other great spring break getaways less than 5 hours from KC.

thrill the family with a

ecently, my mother planned a surprise, two-day vacation for my family. My younger siblings, ages 12 through 16, had no idea what was happening when my parents woke them in the morning, drove 45 minutes to an agreed-upon rendezvous point—where my husband and I joined them—and boarded the train to Hermann, MO. There we enjoyed local food, watched the Missouri River glide by under the scorching sun and toured a winery along with houses dating from the 1850s. It was a delightful break from the routine for all of us. We got to explore a city we had known nothing about, sleep under a different (and quite charming) roof, eat great food and reconnect with each other. If you feel the need to get away, consider booking a train ride to a new town!

train ride to a secret destination! The Key is Planning Why not pick a destination randomly? Open a map, close your eyes, and let your finger drop.Your next family outing can be the town or city to which you came closest. Buy your tickets in advance. Amtrak (Amtrak.com) offers inexpensive tickets which can be purchased online. There are many discounts and specials available weekly. Often a train ride is less expensive than taking a car, with gas prices as they are. Once you’ve decided on your destination, research the place. Regional publications, such as Missouri Life or Kansas! Magazine, often feature in-depth guides to little-known towns around the state, and usually have online searchable databases. Also, read the town’s website, investigate the historical locations nearby and check the Food Network website to see if any restaurants nearby have been lauded for killer food. Plan for a lot of walking if you don’t choose to rent a vehicle or take a trolley at the other end. Clothes and shoes should be comfortable and weather-appropriate. You might find it exhilarating to surprise the children. Make it easy on yourself by packing clothes and activities while they are at school, so that you have nothing to do but wake them up and look mysterious on the day of your travels. Obtain permission for them to be absent from school if you go during the week, but make sure to swear teachers to secrecy! Great snacks that fit in carry-on bags include string cheese, crackers, juices, apples and cookies. Fun activities for kids include coloring books, the newest in a popular series of chapter books, action figures and car games. Enjoy your family anew in a different context. Learn about the region in which you live. Discover the joy of planning a surprise for the ones you love. Have fun! Emily McIntyre is a Kansas City-based freelance writer and harpist. She also writes a blog, SoftExplosions.blogspot.com.When not writing, she enjoys reading, cooking and making music under a variety of conditions.

kcparent.com march 2012

KCP TRAVEL

what’s new

Test US Knowledge With Fun Game Before heading out on your spring break road trip, challenge the family to the RoadTrip board game. Four different categories of questions plus a 30-sided alphabet die make for an entertaining way to spend time together as a family and test each other’s quickthinking knowledge of the United States! Celebrate the diversity and grandeur of our country by rolling your way through the USA! Amazon.com

Perfect Stories for Car Trips (or Anytime!) Storytelling has been practiced throughout the world since the earliest civilizations and continues to this day as a unique art form in every society around the globe. But today there is hardly any genuine storytelling specifically for children. I Remember a Story is not an audiobook but a collection of stories on CD from the imagination of storyteller Gordon Michael. Children are transported by Gordon’s voice as they sense the excitement, humor, joy and adventure. Adults and kids alike will become immersed in each new adventure. IRememberAStory.com

Mom Tip When traveling, make these cell phone number bracelets for your kids to wear. If they get lost or separated from you, they’ll be able to find someone to help them call you, and you won’t worry about them having to remember your phone number. kcparent.com march 2012

great outdoors

Carsickness:

mountain air s s

Find your elevation

A Sticky Situation

getaway aaah! rocky mountain high

There is a place where the plains meet the mountains, and geography is a 3-D experience. Where the humidity is low and the elevation is high and memories blend into one unforgettable vacation. We call this Rocky Mountain oasis Colorado Springs. You’ll call it the experience of a lifetime.

Find your elevation at VisitCOS.com/Kansas

ack in the old days when children and automobile safety weren’t uttered in the same breath, carsickness was treated differently, too. Whenever Mom and Pop had a nauseous kid, they cracked the windows and had her hop up to the front seat. “Martha, keep looking straight ahead at the road… and if it gets worse, we’ll let you jump out in the ditch!” Today thankfully, research demonstrates benefits of safety seats and restraints, and children are kept in the back seat; but in terms of road nausea, this can worsen matters. Dr. Kristen Stuppy, a pediatrician with Overland Park’s Pediatric Partners, worries that the “recommendations to keep kids rear-facing until 2 years will lead to increased nausea.” Suggestions to Reduce Carsickness: Break long trips into shorter parts. • Have children eat light snacks before traveling and drink plenty of water. Avoid large, fatty or spicy meals. • Keep air circulating: open windows or aim air vents toward your child. • Avoid books and videos because they seem to worsen symptoms. • NO SMOKING in the car! Even if kids aren’t in the car at the time, smoke dust settles and remains in the car. Having it on the clothing or hair of others in the car might also trigger problems. Herbal and Holistic Methods: According to WholeFoodsMarket.com, “Ginger is commonly recommended by health professionals for motion sickness and nausea.” Stuppy also offers some advice: “Acupressure wristbands seem to help many kids (in her practice), though research doesn’t really support wristbands. If it works, great! They fall into the ‘won’t hurt to try’ category for me.” Medications: Several medications may provide help if other methods don’t work for your child; however, do not medicate young ones without discussing it first with your medical provider. Even over-the-counter remedies, such as Dramamine, which is suggested for kids over 2 years, works for some children but not others, according to Stuppy. “It can cause sedation, which might be good on a long trip - but some kids have the opposite reaction and become hyper!” she says. She also warns that more serious effects of dizziness, blurred vision and trouble thinking can occur. Stacey Hatton is a pediatric RN whose children are third-generation roadside stoppers. She has high hopes of finding the cure and making her millions!

kcparent.com march 2012

CSCVB12 KC_PARENT MAR 3.6X9.88 FNL.indd 1

KCP TRAVEL

healthy kids

2/15/12 1:57 PM

media mix

Traveling Tots

For spring break or just a weekend ride, consider these titles for traveling in trains, planes or automobiles.

KCP TRAVEL

Along a Long Road by Frank Viva (Little, Brown). Viva has created one 35-foot-long journey through the great outdoors in this retro artistic treasure. A single yellow line propels you forward on a thrilling bicycle journey. The spare words create more of a mood than a story, which captures the spirit of freedom for any age. (Ages 4 and up)

Scribble It! 30 Postcards by Taro Gomi (Chronicle). A great travel-sized book (4”x6”) with 30 pages of post cards to send to or from home. Each card has the perfect question to spark creativity—“What kind of pet does he/she have?” A perfect way to keep up handwriting, along with personal remembrances of trips. (Ages 3 and up)

My Little Suitcase by Moms with Apps. This app for the very young helps kids pack their own suitcases. Where do you want to go? To the beach? Skiing? A Sleepover? Put all of your items into your virtual suitcase and then use them in the scene at the end. Available on Apple products. (Ages 3 and up)

Around the World by Matt Phelan (Candlewick). A three-part graphic novel that provides mini-biographies of amazing individuals who have circumnavigated the earth: Thomas Stevens, Nellie Bly and Joshua Slocum. Phelan captures each unique personality and attempts to uncover their motivations. Amazing determination and that “can-do” spirit permeate these unfathomable stories and may just inspire your child to travel the world. (Ages 8 and up) Julie Hubble is spending spring break in Leawood.

All About Bullies...Big and Small All About Bullies…Big and Small (Cool Beans Music & East Coast Recording Company). Nominated for a 2011 Grammy Award, this CD features 32 tracks of songs, poetry and storytelling perfect for when you have family time. Each track can start a conversation or provide comfort to children and parents alike. With names like Steve Van Zandt, Eric Bazilian, Peter Alsop and the Battersby Duo, this disc is not to be missed. Full of humor and life lessons from different perspectives. (Ages 5 and up)

AKKA KARATE USA Kenpo Karate •Jiujitsu Tai Chi •Kickboxing Self Confidence Physical Fitness Personal Safety

Providing quality Self Defense Instruction for over 35 years

Kenpo Karate •Jiujitsu

Olathe 913.829.4003 • Westport 816.756.1340 Tai Chi •Kickboxing Independence 816.373.1255 Self Confidence Gladstone 816.682.2428Physical • OP 913.385.3518 Fitness www.AKKA.org Personal Safety

2 weeks FREE Trial

Providing quality Self Defense Instruction for over 35 years

Olathe 913.829.4003 • Westport 816.756.1340 Independence 816.373.1255 Gladstone 816.682.2428 • OP 913.385.3518 www.AKKA.org kcparent.com march 2012

Special Advertising Section

B’nai Jehudah Early Childhood Education Center Using Jewish values and culture as our foundation, our preschool provides hands on experiences that enables children to prosper and grow. With small classes, a warm, nurturing environment and individualized care and attention, your child will gain a passion for lifelong learning. Join us this summer for Camp Chaverim, June 11 – August 3, 2012. Summer fun includes water play, karate and HappyFeet Soccer. 913.663.4050. See display ad on pg. 32. preschool@bnaijehudah.org

Interactive Education Guide available at KCParent.com

Ceramic Cafe

KC Parent’s

Camp Guide

Animal Camp Cub Creek Science Camp No other summer program offers as many face to face, hands-on encounters with exotic animals. Imagine spending a week feeding monkeys, walking llamas, grooming miniature horses, petting ferrets and chinchillas, playing with puppies and parrots. Our campers don’t “rough it” unless they want to. Choose from over 100 activities, sleep comfortably in spacious, air-conditioned cabins, enjoy an outstanding selection of delicious meals, and learn from some of the best staff anywhere. Ask for free brochure 573.458.2125. See display ad on pg. 36. www.MyAnimalCamp.com

Arch Youth-Arch Diocese of KCK Camp Tekakwitha offers horseback riding, high rope challenges, canoeing, hiking, rock climbing, rappelling, basketball, soccer, swimming, mountain boarding, archery, volleyball, mountain biking, outdoor camping, Bible studies, numerous Catholic prayer experiences and other outdoor camp activities. Camp Tekakwitha is a powerful spiritual experience that leaves the campers excited to return year after year. Camp Tekakwitha is operated by the Archdiocese of KC in Kansas. Full information is available at our website under youth. 785.746.5693. See display ad on pg. 30. www.ArchKCK.org

Ceramic Cafe’s summer program provides instruction in a variety of ceramic art techniques including hand building with clay, ceramic painting and glazing techniques and also glass fusing. The theme is “My Creative Self” and projects encourage individual creative expression. Camp sessions are divided by age groups. Creative Kids is for ages 5-7, Aspiring Artists is for ages 8 and up. One day Workshops are also offered through out the summer. Visit our website at www.CeramicCafeKC.com for add’l info and registration form. See display ad on pg. 32.

Ceramics and Coffee House at Paint, Glaze & Fire Camp ARTRAGEOUS! Ceramics & Coffee House at Paint, Glaze & Fire is offering summer camp for its 14th season! Your child will learn new techniques and have fun creating art in our multi-medium camps. Check it out online and get more information as well as a registration form at www.PaintGlazeAndFire.net. All supplies and a daily snack are included. Sibling and early registration discounts are available. For more information on these and many other continued on pg. 32

Discovery Farm Training Center Weeklong camp provides boys the opportunity to discover their unique God-given abilities. Character building, life skills and so much more! • welding & woodworking • kitchen science • small engine repair • handyman skills

660.438.6522

www.discoveryfarm.org

kcparent.com march 2012

Camp Tekakwitha A Catholic Adventure Camp The camps offer horseback riding, high rope challenges, canoeing, hiking, rock climbing, repelling, basketball, soccer, swimming, ultimate frisbee, group party games, mountain boarding, archery, volleyball, mountain biking, outdoor camping, softball, bible studies, numerous catholic prayer experiences and other outdoor camp activities. Camp is a powerful spiritual experience that leaves the campers excited to return year after year.

CREATIVE • EASY • FUN CAMP TEKAKWITHA Prairie Star Ranch 1124 California Road Williamsburg, KS 66095 (785) 746-5693

archkck.org

Available for • Team Building Events • Birthday Parties • Girls Night Out & Much More!

CAMP

ARTRAGEOUS 2012 Call for details

Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/PaintGlazeFire.KS Locally Ow ned & Operate d

127th & Metcalf • 913-661-CLAY (2529) www.paintglazeandfire.net

camp guide

Children who participate in summer programs... are less likely to experience a significant summer learning slide.

preparing

happy campers Day and specialty camps should carry a current state childcare license. Additionally, staff should be trained in emergency, communication and safety procedures, behavior management techniques (including handling the common bout of homesickness) and child abuse prevention.

Camp Sunshine

ummer camp is a time-honored tradition, rich with activities, newfound friendships and a lifetime of memories. Explore a few ways to make your child’s camp experience smooth sailing from start to finish.

S’more Than Just Fun

According to the RAND Corporation, a non-profit research organization, children who participate in summer programs, like experiential learning activities offered in an organized camp, are less likely to experience a significant summer learning slide. Camp also enhances a child’s physical and emotional well-being. Activities build social skills, teamwork and independence, which all contribute to stronger selfconfidence and leadership abilities. “I often hear from parents how amazed they are when their children return home after spending time at camp....about how they seem older and more mature,” says Doug Berkel, senior program director of Youth Development Services with the Kansas City YMCA.

Avoid Camp Run Amok

First, together with your child, decide what skills you want your child to gain and choose a camp that fits her needs and interests, as well as your family’s values. Check out safety guidelines in the camp’s parent handbook. Look for overnight camps accredited by the American Camp Association (ACA). “ACA standards are the most universal and well-known standards adopted by most camps to ensure a quality and safe program,” Berkel says.

Day camps are a practical way to introduce children, ages 5 to 12, to the camp experience. Most center on a theme, like sports, science, nature, technology and the arts. Ann Bowley, Olathe, says that when her stepson, Trevor, was younger, he enjoyed planning out the day camps he wanted to attend each summer. However, as her son got older, he grew more apprehensive about starting over with a new group of kids each week. “We talked to him about it and he never changed his plans. We just looked for schoolmates that might be in camp with him to help him be more comfortable,” she says.

Camp Ability

Specialty camps center around one activity like music, art, sports or science. These camps provide children the space to further explore and develop a skill that interests them. “Specialty camps tend to run...partial days and could be a nice addition to regular day camps,” Berkel says.

Camp Starlight

Overnight camps, typically in an outdoor setting, can last anywhere from a few days to several weeks and are generally offered for children ages 7 and up. If you aren’t sure your child is ready, allow him to spend the night at friends’ houses occasionally. Or, as Berkel suggests, take advantage of a weekend family camping opportunity, usually offered in the fall and spring to familiarize campers and their families with the facilities and staff.

Conquer Camp Blues

Preparation and an awareness of what

to expect can ease the transition from home to camp. Before your child departs, go over a list of everything she will need. Pack a physical connection to home like a favorite sleeping bag, stuffed animal or pillow. Also, mail a card ahead of time to ensure it arrives before the end of camp. Tell your child how you look forward to hearing her camp stories, but avoid saying how much you miss her which can trigger homesickness and worry. John Whiteside, a 14-year veteran Boy Scout leader, soccer coach and father of eight in Lenexa, is a camping pro. Over the years, he and his children have participated in multiple camps, including sports, band and weeklong scout camps. Initial nervousness isn’t unusual. If your child asks to come home, Whiteside says to consider the situation, but to encourage him to discuss his anxieties with the camp counselor and take it one day at a time. “Tell him, ‘Yes, today was hard, but I think it will be better tomorrow,’ and usually tomorrow is better,” he says. While your child may struggle at first, chances are he’ll come home a happy camper with a heightened sense of selfconfidence, memorable stories and a passel of new friends to boot. Christa Melnyk Hines, a freelance journalist, wife and mother of two happy campers, resides in Olathe. kcparent.com march 2012

ves for Kids

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camp guide fun and creative programs, visit the website. See display ad on pg. 30. 913.661.CLAY (2529).

Christian Youth Theatre

wednesday

Join Christian Youth Theater for summer fun! Camps include: “Winnie the Pooh” (ages 4-5), “Jungle Out There” and “So You Want to be a karate with mr. matt Pop Star” (ages 5-12), “Xtreme Theater: Harry Join Matt McDaniel with AKKA for basic Karate skills. AKKA Potter” (ages 10 - 14), “Camp Willy” (ShakeKarate Academies teach the fundamentals of the Martial Arts by combining the time-tested Eastern Philosophy of speare) (ages 12-18), middle school camp Martial Arts with the modern approach of Western teaching “Selections from Shrek” (grades 6 - 8) and our philosophy. Our academies offer a well-balanced program childrenovernight that emphasizes pride, self-esteem, fitness and high for school master camp “Guys and integrity Dolls” including two full production performances. Camps offered June - July at locations throughout the KC area. Call 913.681.3318 for moredance information visit us online at with missormaggie www.CYTKC.org. See display ad on pg. 33.

thursday

Join Miss Maggie for a twirling good time. The session will be a combination of gymnastics and a special movement class. Students will work on stretching, balancing, and learn some basic dance moves. Maggie is a graduate of the University of Missouri-Kansas City’s BFA program in Dance, and also one of 18 to receive UMKC’s Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs Honor Award.

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The Coterie School for Theatre Exploration The Coterie School for Theatre Exploration offers camps for kids entering grades K -12 at six sites: South Kansas City (Notre Dame de Sion), Liberty (Liberty CC), Lee’s Summit (MCC Longview), Overland Park (Miller-Marley), The Plaza (Pembroke Hill), and Parkville (Park University). Half-day camps include creative drama, acting and audition skills. Special offerings: “Scenes from The Hunger Games” and Comedy on Your Feet. Performance camps: Air Guitar High, How to Eat Fried Worms, Bugsby Malone, Jr. Visit www.CoterieTheatre.org. See display ad on pg. 32.

The Culture House Spend your summer at The Culture House! A whole new selection of summer programs

includes dance, theater, music and art. 2-Week Musical Intensives, Godspell and Jungle Book, Stuntman Stage and Film Combat Camp, Enchanted Princess Ballet, Animation Nation, Creative Kingdom Art Camp, Annie Musical Revue, Broadway Starz, Beat Bounce Hip Hop Workshop & END OF SUMMER CELEBRATION: The Ridiculously Entertaining Talent Spectacular! Openings limited, call today. (14808 W 117th St, Olathe) 913.393.3141. See display ad on pg. 7. Enroll online: www.CultureHouse.com.

Dicovery Farm We believe every boy should have the opportunity to be mentored by mature men who demonstrate how to become a man of God, becoming all that God intended him to be. Camp provides the opportunity for boys to “Discover” their unique abilities and enjoy outdoor activi-

friday

LIFELONG LEARNING BEGINS HERE happy feet with coach daniel

preschool + summer camps for children 18 months through pre-k call today for more information A great introduction to the game of soccer! Each child has a soccer ball. Incorporates stories, songs, nursery rhymes & fun games! Your child will learn advanced physical skills in the most fun way. A HappyFeet head start gives joy, confidence and self-concept! The benefits of HappyFeet carry over to other sports and life.

A great place to create!

Pottery painting Glass fusing Birthday parties “Family Day” every Sunday Special pricing for families

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9425 Mission Rd • 913-383-0222 www.ceramiccafekc.com

12320 Nall Avenue, Overland Park, KS 66209 913-663-4050 preschool@bnaijehudah.org

Summer Program June 4 to August 3 (No camps week of July 2)

Ages 3 to 13 For Information:

816-931-8614 www.speds.org

Summer at Sky’s the Limit Crafts and fort building Fieldtrips every week Swimming, parks, movies and more! 8301 Lamar Ave & 10001 W 88th St Overland Park, KS • 913.381.4743

4041 Main Street Kansas City, MO 64111

elevating Education. One Student at a Time.

kcparent.com march 2012

Now enrolling “My Creative Self” Summer Camp Ages 5 to 7 8 and up

www.opchildcare.com

6 Class Sites Grades K-12 • South Kansas City • The Plaza • Parkville • Lee’s Summit • Overland Park • Liberty

Visit the ALL NEW KCParent.com’s CAMP GUIDE. Now parents can EASILY search by location through Google Maps and camp type PLUS see photos and video.

FULL & 1/2-DAY CAMPS FOR AGES 4-18!

ties in a small group setting. Enrollment is limited to 8 each week so sign up early. This summer will also have girls’ weeks. Cost of $200 includes room and board, project supplies and instructional materials. Limited sponsorships are available. 660.438.6522. See display ad on pg. 30. www.DiscoveryFarm.org

A Fairytale Ballet Experience the enchanting world of A Fairytale Ballet this summer! Exclusively for ages 2-8, camps combine cherished childhood literature, with dance, music, props and beautiful costumes each week. Children will create a take-home prop in our prop workshop. Watch your little ballerina blossom when she becomes Cinderella and other favorite princesses this summer! Camps and classes are offered Mon.- Sat. in the morning and afternoon, June-Aug. 913.671.7944. See display ad on pg. 37. www.AFairytaleBallet.com

R E MM 12

0 2 U S S MP CA

Faulkner’s Pony Camp Want your kids to learn what it’s like to take care of a pony? Have them join us for pony camp to find out. Faulkner’s Pony Camp is a great way for kids to get close to the Faulkner’s herd with a wrangler at their side. Kids will learn important equine skills and how to groom, feed and ride ponies during this fun week at the ranch. 816.761-1234. See display ad on pg. 32. www.FaulknersRanch.com/ponycamps

Johnson County Park & Recreation District From Just for Fun to Outdoor Discovery, JCPRD offers kids of all ages and interests over 40 professionally programmed and supervised camps and clinics to choose from. Conveniently located throughout Johnson County, the choices include recreation, sports, arts and crafts, science, nature and environment, music, At art camp, theater, dance, leadership develI meet other opment, community service and special needs. For details call visit creative kids www.JCPRD.com or call and we share 913.831.3359. See display ad our ideas! on pg. 38.

Kansas City Art Institute Walt Disney studied art at the Kansas City Art Institute and your child can too! We offer a look at Art Around the World, Fantastic Fashions, Claymation Movies and more. Youth and highschoolers ages 6-18 can explore art and design at one of the nation’s top schools of art and design located right in their own backyard. Supervised noon time and an extended hour available. We offer a main and a north campus. For more information go to www.KCAI.edu/artforeveryone or call 816.802.3333. See display ad on pg. 36.

It’s A

JUNGLE OUT THERE

Winnie Pooh the

elections From

hrek

Camp

Willy

GET DETAILS & SIGN UP TODAY AT CYTKC.ORG

KANSAS CITY kcparent.com march 2012

camp guide KC Young Audiences The KCYA Community School of the Arts (CSA) offers children performing and visual arts classes, camps and private instruction on the campus of St. Teresa’s Academy. Our fabulous performance based Spring Break Camps will be available March 12–16, 2012 and culminate with a delightful show for family and friends. Summer Camps begin in June. Scholarships are available. 816.531.4022. See display ad on pg. 34. www.KCYA.org.

Kansas City Ballet School

Martin City, Jr.’s Komedy Kidstitute

Kansas City Ballet School Summer Programs include once-a-week Creative Movement classes (ages 3-5) to special one-day Fairytale Dance Workshops featuring Peter Pan, Cinderella, Superheroes and more (ages 5-8) to 2- to 4-week Mini Ballet Intensive Camps (ages 10-13). Your child will enjoy excellent training and superior attention while having fun. Classes begin June 4th. Enroll today to guarantee your child’s spot. Two convenient locations: Downtown and Johnson County 816.931.2299. See display ad on pg. 35. www.KCBallet.org

Learn how to tell the funniest jokes, do a classic spit take, and throw a cream pie! Taught by Martin City Melodrama professionals, the Camps are for students entering grades K – 12. Komedy For Kids I culminates in an original show performed by the student actors for their families and friends. Komedy For Kids II gives students the opportunity to create a 2nd show performed as Act Two. Both camps are held at the Melodrama, 9601 Metcalf Avenue, Overland Park, KS. For more information, call 913.642.7576. See display ad on pg. 49.

Missouri Military Academy The New ERA Summer School - Enrichment & Recovery Academy offers students in grades 7-12 an opportunity to gain extra credit or recover lost credits. New ERA offers boarding   and day options for boys and day options for    girls. Fun activities are incorporated into the      daily schedule. June 24-July 21. Summer Leadership Camp - Boys ages 13-17 can learn basic leadership skills at this military-style boarding camp. Campers will enjoy adventures while  learning how to tap into their inner leader. July  8-20. 573.581.1776. See display ad on pg. 35.  www.MissouriMilitaryAcademy.org. 



kcparent.com

NelsonAtkins KC parent Sum ClassesFINoutline.indd march 2012 34

2/15/12 2:46 PM

The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art

REACH NEW HEIGHTS THIS SUMMER

Summer at the Nelson-Atkins! Celebrate nature this summer as you explore places and spaces, travel in time, create your own cartoons and discover secret gardens; all in The Nelson-Atkins Summer Art Classes! Students 3–18 enjoy the unique benefit of seeing and talking about art in the galleries as part of the learning experience. Special guests include artists, curators and other Museum staff. Enroll early–class size is limited. Visit www.Nelson-Atkins.org for class listings. See display ad on pg. 34. 816.751.1ART.

Nerman Museum Early Explorations classes (ages 5-7) and Contemporary Creations classes (ages 8-11) are interactive art learning experiences. Students learn directly from JCCC’s diverse permanent collection and temporary exhibitions in the Nerman Museum. After exploring selected works of art, students create original works of art in the studio classroom. Classes are offered Tues.-Fri., June 5-July 27, with individual sessions from 10AM-noon or 2PM-4PM. A special 3-D Art Week program runs June 26-29. Register at www.JCCC.edu/youth or call 913.469.2323. See display ad on pg. 38.

Summer opportunities abound at MMA! Summer Leadership Camp - Boys ages 13-17 learn basic leadership and military skills from experienced mentors at this military-style leadership camp. July 8-20.

New ERA Summer School - Students in grades 7-12 can recover lost credits or gain extra credits in just four weeks at our structured academic summer school program. Co-ed day and all-boy boarding options available. A full schedule of fun activities is included. June 24-July 21.

Visit www.missourimilitaryacademy.org/summer

Summer programs for ages 3 to 13! Give your child the gift of dance this summer! Our classes and workshops help your child learn poise, balance, rhythm, and how to take instruction and work well with others… all under the guidance of our professional, year-round dance faculty. Programs Include: • • •

Creative Movement (ages 3-5) Fairy Tale Dance Workshops featuring Cinderella, Peter Pan, Superheroes and more (ages 5-8) Mini Ballet Intensive 2-4 Week Camps (ages 10-13)

Two Convenient Locations!

Union Station

Pershing

Johnson County 5359 W. 94th Terr. Prairie Village, KS (95th & Nall)

W. 97th St.

Nall Ave.

5 I-3

Downtown Bolender Center 500 W. Pershing Rd. Kansas City, MO

Broadway

Photographer Brett Pruitt & East Market Studios

94th Terr.

W. 95th St.

Enroll TODAY to secure your child’s spot!

Classes start June 4!

Call 816-931-2299 or visit www.kcballet.org/school for a complete list of summer courses.

kcparent.com march 2012

camp guide Pembroke Hill Picture Perfect Summer at Pembroke Hill! A snapshot of a great summer at Pembroke Hill includes a variety of academic, athletic and enriching classes while capturing what summer is really about...having fun! Open to the community, Pembroke Hill Summer Program offers students the opportunity to pose as pirates, zoom into space, develop science experiments and much more! For more information, visit us at www.PembrokeHill.org. See display ad on pg. 36.

Sky’s the Limit Join us this summer at Sky’s the Limit! We serve K-6 at our two locations, 10001 W 88th Terr and 8301 Lamar in OP. Spend the summer engaging with a great staff in activities including mad science, fort building, crafts, music and much more. We take a field trip everyday including swimming, indoor gyms, parks, movies and many others. Lunch is included! We are open all summer! Space is limited, 913.381.4743 or visit www.OPChildcare.com for details. See display ad on pg. 32.

Art camps and classes youth | high schoolers | adults www.kcai.edu/artforeveryone

kcparent.com march 2012

Without camp I might not have made my team! It’s nice to have the extra coaching.

St. Paul’s Episcopal Day School Have fun this summer at St. Paul’s Episcopal Day School! We have morning and afternoon classes in art, music, theatre, sports, academics, cooking, nature and more. Extended day is also available. Summer program dates: Monday through Friday, June 4 to 29 & July 9 to August 3. For more information, contact: Christina Lenon, Director of Enrichment Programs, 816.268.6536 or clenon@speds.org. www.SPEDS.org. See display ad on pg. 32.

Summit Christian Academy Summit Christian Academy presents Camp Eagle Summit, a Christian-based summer academy and camp for students entering 1st6th grade, May 21-August 10, 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. with before- and after-care at no extra charge. Weekly activities include Summit Waves, Y.E.S! Kids’ Fitness/golf lessons, chapel service, and academic enrichment. Field trips include Science City/Planetarium, T-Bones Baseball, KC Zoo, Legoland® and more! Participants will have the opportunity to be part of the musical Annie, Jr. 816.525.1480. See display ad on pg. 38. www.Summit-Christian-Academy.org

2012 Wildwood Summer Programs Summer Adventure Two 5-day residential camp programs offer boys and girls ages 8-14 an opportunity to enjoy outdoor fun, learning and adventure. $340 Two Sessions: June 11-15 & July 23-27

WOW (Women of Wildwood) A 5-day residential camp program offers girls ages 10-15 an opportunity for outdoor fun, learning and adventure, with an emphasis on developing leadership skills and enhancing self-esteem. $340 July 30- August 3

Find YourSelf Leadership Camp A 3-day camp program for boys and girls ages 14-17 provides the opportunity to develop leadership skills in a residential camp setting! $200

ACA Accredited Camp

Theatre of the Imagination Performing arts. One and two week camps run Mon-Fri, May 31-Aug. 12 at 6100 W. 127th, OP, KS. Open Pre-K -10th grades. Half-day or

913-757-4500 wildwoodctr.org

NOW ENROLLING FOR SPRING SESSION!

HAVE A FANCY SPRING! Fancy Nancy toys and dress-up & other sweet treats!

call about summer camps!

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SPEND YOUR SUMMER WITH US!

Half Day Camps (ages 3-5) $90.00 Full Day Camps (ages 6-16) $135.00 OverNite Camps (ages 8-18) $350.00 WeekEnd Retreats $100.00

GREAT CAMPS, GREAT FRIENDS, and GREAT LOCATIONS!!! Even more camps, detailed camp descriptions, and information is available at

www.trilogyculturalarts.org or call 913.254.4444 to register! 12480 S Blackbob Rd. Olathe KS, 66062 kcparent.com march 2012

Want to reach 100,000 KC moms each month who shop for camps? Call today to reserve a spot in KC Parent’s April Camp Guide, 913.782.3238.

full-day, (8 a.m.-6 p.m.), available. Shows spoof Clones, Divas, Vampires, Princesses, Video Games and more. No auditions and no experience required. Free costumes, shows & snacks. Enroll by 3/31 get 15% off. Multiple child discount 10%. Flexible schedule, make your own. Specials: $54 half day, $99 full day. Also have one week camps in NKC, LS and Plaza, 816.561.2787 or tiarts@hotmail.com. See KC Parent ad on pg. 34 for $20 coupon. www.DramaKC.com

Trilogy Performing Arts Summer Camps

Make GREAT FRIENDS! Sing, Dance Act, and Stage Fight! Be in GREAT SHOWS! Glee Club 2, Once Upon a Time, Hakuna Matata, Belieber Pop/Hip Hop, Entangled 2, Galactic Training, Academy 2, Cowboys vs. Ninjas 2, Peter Pan, Westside Sharks and Jets, Zombie Camp and more! Experience a state of the art GREAT LOCATION! Day Camps located in Olathe. Half Day (3-5) $90, Full Day (6-16) $135. NEW! Week long Overnight Camps with Narnia inspired facility (8-18) $350. 913.254.4444. See display ad on pg. 37. www.TrilogyCulturalArts.com.

It’s A Hard

Bug’s

lifE

Summit

Wildwood Located near LaCygne, KS, Wildwood’s beautiful residential camping facility features both low and high ropes course experiences and offers activities in outdoor, adventure and experiential education. Summer Adventure is a 5-day residential camp for kids ages 8-14. WOW (Women of Wildwood) is a 5-day residential camp for girls ages 10-15. Find YourSelf Leadership Camp is a 3-day camp program for boys and girls ages 14-17. ACA accredited camp. 913.757.4500. See display ad on pg. 36. www.WildwoodCtr.org.

YMCA Summer Program The Y’s summer day camps offer fun and adventure for kids. Camps are Monday-Friday, and hours accommodate working parents. Camps for ages 5-12 are offered in Olathe, Shawnee Mission, Blue Valley, Bonner Springs, Raymore-Peculiar and Center school districts, and in Parkville. Choose traditional camps with different themes weekly or specialty camps including sports, outdoor and fine arts. In addition, Summer of Service is for ages 12- 15, and Junior Summer of Service is for ages 9-12. Call 913.345.9622 or visit www.KansasCityYMCA. org. See display ad on pg. 11.

Get creative at the Nerman Museum! Classes (ages 5-11) combine engaging, interactive tours with unique studio projects.

Christian Academy presents

Camp Eagle Summit May 21 - August 10

For students entering 1st-6th grade in the fall of 2012. Hands-on academic and Christian-based camp that includes arts, crafts, music, sports, and weekly field trips. Attendees will have the chance to audition and take part in the musical Camp hours are 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Before- and after-care are available at no extra charge from 7-9 a.m. and 3:30-6 p.m. Located at 1450 SW Jefferson in Lee’s Summit, Missouri 816.525.1480

For enrollment process, pricing, and application, see summit-christian-academy.org.

kcparent.com march 2012

Tuesdays-Fridays, June 5-July 27 10 a.m. – noon or 2 p.m.-4 p.m. Pre-registration is required. 913-469-2323 • www.jccc.edu/youth

Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art Johnson County Community College

tually 5 Bad Things That Are Ac

GOOD For You

We’ve all heard that we should stay away from caffeine, that carbohydrates are bad for us and alcohol is harmful. We’ve been told to be leery of the sun and avoid all kinds of stress. But these things can actually be good—in moderation and with some parameters.

Chocolate

This favorite is a pleasure that generally has a bad rap but actually offers some benefits. “Some chocolates, especially dark chocolate, have shown antioxidant effects and can assist in reducing blood pressure and some heart disease,” nurse practitioner Kim Cornwell says. “I think, too, that chocolate just makes you ‘feel good.’ For a lot of women, it is our go-to food when we are feeling emotionally down. When I am tired or stressed it is certainly my pick-me-up!”

Caffeine Caffeine is generally regarded as bad for you because of how your body re-

acts to it. But that morning cup of coffee isn’t as bad as you might think. Misty Trinidad, nurse at Liberty North High School, says, “The FDA has done extensive research on the effects of caffeine, and there is no substantial evidence to prove that caffeine has a negative effect on blood pressure, cardiac arrhythmias, pregnancy, osteoporosis and cancer.” Sarah Martens, nurse at Tri-County Mental Health Services, agrees that caffeine isn’t all bad. “It is a great pick-me-up in the morning and afternoon for me. It helps with my sluggish, lethargic feeling and improves my ability to focus and get my work done,” she says.

Stress

Stress can cause headaches, ulcers and grumpy moods. But it can have a helpful side, too. “Stress helps clean out the cobwebs in an otherwise boring, mundane day,” Martens says. “It increases mental acuity, encourages critical thinking and prioritizing and provides a shot of adrenaline that may charge your body’s batteries for the rest of the day. It can also provide a sense of accomplishment.”

Sunlight Nothing warms the soul like sunshine! With the threat of skin cancer, though,

many are nervous about being out in the sun. But using sunscreen and paying attention to the clock can allow you to enjoy sunlight for the wonderful thing it is. Sunlight is a great natural and free source of vitamin D and is essential to a woman’s health. Trinidad says, “It helps with our muscle function, helps us absorb our calcium better, decreases chances of arthritis, osteoporosis and cancers, and it decreases bouts of depression!” Between 15 and 20 minutes of exposure to sunlight is a daily essential. Remember to stay out of direct sun from 10:00 to 2:00. Martens adds that sunlight is “imperative for staving off seasonal depression. If you are out in the sunshine, chances are you are getting fresh air or physical activity, which are good for your mental and physical health as well.”

Wine The key word here is moderation. Too many drinks a day can lead to severe health

problems and alcoholism. However, a glass of wine a day can be good for you. “Alcohol can stimulate the appetite, so it is better to drink it with food. When alcohol is mixed with food, it can slow the stomach’s emptying time and potentially decrease the amount of food consumed at the meal,” Trinidad says. “This is a good mix, because especially red wine has antioxidant effects, which help with heart health, and it discourages a person from overeating.” Another benefit, Trinidad says, is that moderate alcohol intake can help increase a person’s “good” cholesterol. In addition to the health benefits mentioned, an occasional glass of wine can aid with relaxation. Martens says that sipping a glass of wine is also a “good way to relax and unwind, and a good way to socially connect with people when you are out.”

Flag Football • Soccer • Baseball Basketball • Cheerleading Organized Programs For Boys & Girls 2-14

913-904-0810 Focus on fun, inclusivity, good sportsmanship, and safe play All skill levels! No tryouts! All instructors background checked and certified FREE Memberships Available

For more information and to sign up as a member, visit www.i9sports.com.

Jennifer Higgins is a freelance writer and teacher from Kearney who especially loves the sun and caffeine. kcparent.com march 2012

Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax hits theaters on March 2nd!

MARCH IS A GOOD TIME TO…

Celebrate Dr. Seuss’ birthday. March 2 is the author’s birthday, and many local libraries, schools and community centers host fun celebrations. However, why not celebrate all month long? Have your children select favorite Seuss books from the library and introduce them to some lesser-known titles that may quickly become new favorites. Kids will have fun creating their own hats like the Cat in the Hat wears. Give them some paper and markers and watch their creativity sprout.

Fly a kite. What better way to celebrate the arrival of spring than to take your family to a local park and fly kites together? If you have never flown a kite, or if you would like suggestions on the best places around Kansas City to fly one, KCKiteClub.org has some great tips.

Dust off the bikes. We all know how unpredictable March weather can be, but often there are at least a few unseasonably warm days. Take advantage of these days to give the family bikes a once-over, making sure the brakes work and the tires have air. Then take off with your family around the neighborhood or on a favorite trail. After a long winter, your body will thank you for the fresh air and exercise!

kcparent.com march 2012

Celebrate St. Patty’s Day. Plan to attend one of many local events, such as the Kansas City St. Patrick’s Day Parade or Martin City’s Irishpalooza.Your kiddos can also celebrate at home by creating this cute shamrock stamp: Materials: For TONS of Heart-shaped cookie cutter great St. Patty’s Potato, cut in half events in KC, Paring knife visit the all-new Green acrylic paint KCParent.com Paintbrush 1. Press the cookie cutter into the cut face of a potato half. 2. Adult: With the cutter still in place, use the knife to cut the potato from around the heart. 3. Remove the cutter, then dip the potato heart into the green paint and press it onto paper placemats, a tablecloth or a homemade card to make a shamrock leaf. Repeat to make two more leaves and use a paintbrush to make the stem.

Stock up on freezer meals. March is Frozen Food Month and a great time to prepare and freeze a few meals for your family. A quick online search will turn up loads of tasty recipes. Here is one I keep in the freezer for harried mornings: Breakfast Burritos 12 cooked bacon strips or sausage links, diced 12 eggs, scrambled with salt and pepper 1 ½ c. shredded cheddar cheese ½ c. diced veggies (green peppers, onions, tomatoes) 10 flour tortillas Spoon ¼ c. of eggs down the center of each tortilla; sprinkle with cheese, veggies and bacon or sausage. Wrap each burrito in aluminum foil and place in freezer baggies. Freeze for up to 1 month. To use frozen burritos: Remove foil. Cover with waxed paper and place on microwavesafe plate. Microwave at 60 percent power for 1 ½ - 2 min.

Enjoy National Potato Chip Day.

Visit the Titanic exhibit. Coinciding with the 100th anniversary of the sinking of the ill-fated ship, Union Station will host “Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition” from March 10 through Sept. 9. More than 300 artifacts retrieved from the ship’s debris field will be on display, plus historically accurate room recreations and an “iceberg” that visitors can touch. Go to Titanic.UnionStation.org for details and to purchase tickets.

Did you know potato chips were invented in 1853? Celebrate on March 14 by grabbing a bag of your favorite chips. If you have a green thumb, March is a great time to plant some spuds and make your own chips when the crop is ready. Tisha Foley lives in Belton with her husband and two kids. They are eager to visit the Titanic exhibit at Union Station. kcparent.com march 2012

THE CURE FOR THE COMMON BRAT

inoculating your child against the entitlement bug

Y recommended reading Good Medicine from the Bookshelf These authors offer research and practical advice for helping you better understand, solve and avoid entitlement issues related to your child. From Innocence to Entitlement, by Jim Fay (Love and Logic) and Dawn Billings. The Narcissism Epidemic: Living in the Age of Entitlement, by Jean M. Twenge, Ph.D., and W. Keith Campbell, Ph.D. Raising Unselfish Children in a Self-Absorbed World and Raising Respectful Children in a Disrespectful World, by Jill Rigby.

kcparent.com march 2012

ou don’t have to live near the Jersey Shore to spot the symptoms. Images and details of bad behavior by self-aggrandizing adults routinely are flaunted on TV, YouTube, magazine covers and newspaper pages. People who think they deserve newer, better and more— even though they can’t afford it—sink deeper into the credit abyss. And relationships end via text, Tweet or status update, with little regard for the other person. Even toys are marketed to encourage pint-sized divas. Need a Bratz doll, anyone? The entitlement bug has struck. And, according to recent studies, an epidemic of narcissistic behavior— fueled by an increasing overemphasis on individualism and self-focus—is wreacking havoc on society. So what can you do to immunize your child against the prevailing self-centered mentality? Well, before you turn to Dr. Phil or Nanny 911, here’s the good news: you are your child’s best defense against the pervasive me, me, me virus.

AN OUNCE OF PREVENTION

Entitlement is so destructive because it ruins relationships and convinces our children their desires and needs trump all others. So teach empathy and compassion to prevent entitlement from taking hold, says Susan Crook, local author, speaker and certified human behavior consultant. Encourage your child to look at those less fortunate and ask, “If I were them, what would my life be like?” And then help your child act on the realization. Crook’s own daughter was so moved after seeing a show about children in Africa without clean water that at the age of 10, and with the help of her mom and much prayer, dreamed up the All-American Girl Tea Party—American Girls Saving Lives Around the World. The annual benefit, now in its fourth year, has raised more than $25,500 to dig five wells in remote parts of Africa. “We have no problem with teaching our children to walk. And it takes trial and error. It takes falling down. It takes over and over and over again working with our child,” says Crook, who also has two adult children. “I think we should take the same attitude toward teaching them empathy and caring for others.” Crook—whose book Personality Insights for Moms! helps families avoid conflict by understanding, accepting and embracing each other’s personality styles—

suggests tailoring teachable moments and activities to your child’s personality. That way, he or she feels understood and can more easily internalize the lesson. Also, if your personality styles differ, then you can avoid trying to force him or her into a situation that feels unnatural. For example, if a child has a task-oriented personality, then he or she might connect more with helping an elderly neighbor rake leaves or put the trash bins back after trash day. On the other hand, a child with a people-oriented personality, for which compassion and empathy come more naturally, might want to entertain the person or just spend time with them. Tasks also can be done anonymously to prevent praise from becoming the motivator. Chane and Jennifer Hutton, Lee’s Summit, often use church opportunities to help refocus their three children. The kids are involved in mission activities, as well as their parents’ ministries. The couple also makes helping people a family activity, from collecting food and other items for the needy to giving someone a ride to church.

THE PRESCRIPTION THAT WORKS If entitlement has caused your children to see you as a human ATM and to think the world owes them more than what they contribute, then the best medicine is to put them to work. When Hutton’s 8-year-old son broke her new $15 candle holder while playing basketball in the house, she forgave him after his tearful apology but still made him work off the debt. It took several months for him to pay for the replacement out of his allowance, but Hutton hopes “the lesson will make him more aware of the correlation between money and work.” Both Hutton and Julie Griggs, Olathe, assign their children chores and tie a payment to the completed job. Hutton’s children get an allowance and have to save up if they want special items that

are not in the family budget. Griggs works on a point system with her 6-year-old, whose chores include helping take out the trash, cleaning her room, helping with the dishes and putting away her laundry. She gets “paid” one point for each task. Fifty points buys her dinner at the restaurant of her choice, and 100 points earns her a night out at an age-appropriate movie.

A DOSE OF REALITY AND A SPOONFUL OF SUGAR Finally, “Junk the self-esteem emphasis and teach selfcontrol and good behavior.” That’s the advice psychologist Jean M. Twenge gives parents in her book, Generation Me:Why Today’s Young Americans Are More Confident, Assertive, Entitled—and More Miserable. Twenge says that “self-esteem has limited benefits, but selfcontrol is linked to success in life.” Instilling healthy self-worth is good. However, bombarding a child with constant “I am special” messages only leads to self-admiration, which feeds entitlement. Eventually, the child starts thinking, “I’m more special than you,” and “If I’m so special, then I inherently deserve everything I want.” And that’s where we are, according to Twenge, with no sign of change in the near future. But take heart. Although you never will be able to completely isolate your children from the media images, advertising lures, peer attitudes and other societal influences that promote entitlement, your positive guidance is just the treatment they need. Melinda Ablard Smith is mother to two great kiddos, wife to one amazing man and owner to three unashamedly entitled Chihuahuas. She lives in Olathe and teaches journalism at MidAmerica Nazarene University.

DREAM DINNERS IS CELEBRATING 10 YEARS! THANK YOU FOR DREAMING UP YOUR DINNERS WITH US.

IN MARCH, JOIN US TO CREATE PENNE WITH CHICKEN AND PEANUT SAUCE, SEARED SESAME CRUSTED TUNA, SAVANNAH GRILL CHICKEN WITH SWEET POTATO FRIES, CARIBBEAN PORK ROAST WITH HONEY MUSTARD SAUCE, CHICAGO STYLE CHOICE CUT CHICKEN WITH RED SKIN POTATOES, & CREAMY CHICKEN RISOTTO.

www.dreamdinners.com • 119MetcalfKS@dreamdinners.com • (913) 491-6733 kcparent.com march 2012

KANSAS CITY Water Slide $5 off your order PLUS Slide Combos Obstacle Course FREE Delivery & Set-Up Character Themes

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Involve the birthday child in the planning. Although surprises are fun, kids enjoy their special day much more it they are a part of the planning. Barbara Beatty, KCMO

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the

cost

New puppy? Music lessons? The latest gadget? Consider the costs involved before saying yes

kcparent.com march 2012

a of saying:

“P

lease, Mom! Please, please, puh-leez!!” It’s hard to keep our emotions from getting the best of us, especially when it comes to our little ones. Their “needs” (or should we say “wants”) are a far cry from what you may remember from your childhood. Not to mention, more expensive. So, how does your child’s asking for the latest and greatest impact the family budget? The cost may be more than you realize. Almost every child, at some point, has asked for a new puppy. It conjures idyllic imaginations of your new “best friend.” Before you make the plunge into a commitment for a new member of your family, take a moment to consider the cost factors involved. PetPlace.com estimates a dog can cost anywhere from $500 to $875 a year. The first year with a brand new puppy is even more expensive at $740 to $1,875. These numbers can vary depending on the size of dog, breed, medical and exercise needs and whether you get the pet from a shelter or breeder. Even with your child’s well-intentioned promises of dog walks, feedings, baths and clean up, getting a pet is definitely a family decision. Depending on the age of your child(ren), call a family meeting and break down the monthly costs. Then have your kids brainstorm about ways to cover those costs (e.g., odd jobs, cutting down on eating out/entertainment, using coupons for groceries, etc.). The hardest part will be sticking to your budget, but consider the rewards of a new pet and also the lessons of responsibility and ownership. Music lessons can also take a big bite out of your budget. On average, most piano lessons are $15 to $30 for a half-hour lesson. That’s $780 to $1560 a year. The average half-hour guitar lesson is $20 (or $1,040 a year). Keep in mind this doesn’t take into consideration the cost of an instrument either. Before you make a hasty decision, let a little time pass to see whether this is something your child really wants to do. There are several ways you can save money on music lessons. Consider renting an instrument. Use sites like Craigslist.org or Ebay.com to buy a used or refurbished model. Believe it or not, a pawn shop could also garner you a great deal on a basic model. Sites like TradingMusician.com can also give you a quote on used equipment. Getting the right instructor for your child will also ensure you are not wasting money. Ask around for recommendations. Music is a life-long skill for a person to enjoy. The discipline required and the exposure to the arts are invaluable, but lessons don’t need to drain your wallet. Birthday parties are another area that can quickly get out of hand. It’s hard to track the average cost of a birthday party because the range is so vast (a family party with cake and ice cream versus a full-blown carnival with ponies). So how can you keep parties within your budget? Make it a family policy that birthday parties only happen on milestone birthdays (1, 5, 10, etc.). If you have more than one child, alternate birthday parties for the kids. One child has parties on an odd-numbered year, the other only on an even-numbered year. This will give you time to plan ahead. Looking for more cost-cutting birthday party strategies? Watch for post-holiday sales to stock up on supplies and decorations. Use daily flash sites, like Groupon, Eversave.com or Mamapedia.com to take advantage of party-related deals on supplies, decorations and party centers. And,

use coupons for food and gifts. The bottom line is only you can determine what’s right for your family when it comes to parties, but don’t give in to the pressure to have a bigger and better party. You can make your child feel special while still staying within your budget. Let’s also not forget the extreme pull of technology and gadgets on our kids. The claim that “everyone has one” is getting harder to refute. The least expensive iPad is $600+ (monthly data plans can be $30+ a month). A recent search on Amazon shows an iPod touch could be $188 to more than $200. Video consoles like the Wii or an Xbox Kinect are pricey, too. So what’s a parent to do? Watch for deals on your favorite money-saving websites, like MoneySavingMom.com or YourRetailHelper.com, for some of the latest deals on video games and gadgets. Also consider buying items used from Ebay, Craigslist or a friend. We recently bought a Wii console with tons of accessories from a friend for only $75. We won’t mind if the kids outgrow it within the year, because we didn’t pay full price. Also, resist the urge to make an impulse purchase. Patience can be your friend. This past year, we were able to get a $50 Leapster for only $15 by using Black Friday pricing plus a $10-off coupon. Still feeling the pressure to buy big? Have your child pay for part of the expense of an electronic item. Tell him you’ll match up to a certain dollar amount and he must pay for maintenance and repairs. If it’s coming out of your child’s own pocket, he’ll be more likely to take ownership of the item. You’ll be guiding your child into a world of stewardship, budgeting and responsibility. Many of these topics can be very enriching experiences for your kids and family, but they don’t have to break your budget. Think ahead, make a plan and stick to it. When appropriate, involve the kids and have them be a part of the process, too. Think about the lessons they’ll learn! Anna Bannister is a work-at-home wife and mom of three children (6, 4 and 2 years old). She is dedicated to saving money for her family on all things, including retail. Her money-saving tips and deals can be found at YourRetailHelper.com.

IMAGINE YOUR CHILD ON THE COVER OF OUR MAGAZINE!

Submit one recent photo (taken within the last four months) with only the child you’re entering in the photo — not a photo with siblings. If you enter multiple children, please send an individual photo of each child with a seperate entry form and fee for each child. Cost is $25 per child. A large portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Forest Avenue Women’s and Children’s Shelter in Kansas City.

DEADLINE IS JUNE 1 LOOK! FREE Oct 2011 KCParent.com 26 years of connecting with kansas city families

HURRY!

fun! fallhayrides pumpkins crafts

First 250 entries will receive 2 FREE tickets to the Kansas City Zoo! too sick for daycare? | easy costumes | local autism resources

ENTER AT KCPARENT.COM

2011 COVER KIDS

all three 2012 winners will be photographed together on one cover

kcparent.com march 2012

march

The NEW KCParent.com Calendar is now 20X FASTER!

CALENDAR

24.

all month

Animal Tales and Trails Through April 29 Crown Center Enter an interactive habitat where children learn about interesting creatures. Join the polar bear in his cave, slide down the penguin iceberg slide, jump with the kangaroo on a small trampoline and much more. Free. 816.274.8444.

Pancakes for Penguins March 10, 9:00 Kansas City Zoo Bring the whole family to the zoo and watch the famous flips of the flapjack by local legend Chris Cakes as you help us bring penguins to the Kansas City Zoo. Stick around for Kids Fun Fest at 10:00! $8-$13. 816.513.5723

Wagons HO! March 24, 10:00 National Frontier Trails Museum Explore life on the trails during this 90-minute program. Tour the museum, see the film West, pack a prairie schooner and take a covered wagon ride. $7.50/person. Reservations required. 816.325.7575.

March is the time to...

Blow bubbles during the second week of March, Nat’l Bubble Week. Enjoy buttery popcorn on March 8, Popcorn Lover’s Day. Introduce your kids to your favorite poems during Nat’l Poetry Month. Oh, I like this day…March 16, Everything You Do Is Right Day. Get creative on March 26, Make Your Own Holiday Day.

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

kcparent.com march 2012

THURSDAY

JBF Sale Thru Sun, 9:00, OP Int’l Trade Center. Attend one of the largest consignment sales for children’s clothing, toys, furniture, maternity and more. KC.JBFSale.com Freedom Sisters Thru Sun, 10:00 & Noon, Coterie Theatre. An inspiring show set in the deep South of 1950’s America. 816.474.6552 Bumper Bowling 10:00, Mission Bowl. Every Thursday, preschoolers bowl for $3. Includes shoe rental and drink. 913.432.7000 Rumpelstiltskin…Recycled?!? Thru May 10, Martin City, Jr. Learn about history, environment and literature through this musically fractured fairytale. 913.642.7576 Ice Skating Thru Mar 18, Noon Mon-Fri, 10:00 Sat & Sun, Crown Center Ice Terrace. Kansas City may not have snow, but we’ve got a great outdoor ice skating rink! 816.274.8411 MIAA 2011 Basketball Championship Thru Sun, Noon, Municipal Auditorium. Purchase tickets to see talented players on the court. Ticketmaster.com Getting Ready for the Overland Journey 2:00, National Frontier Trails Museum. Explore the process of getting ready for a 6-month overland journey. 816.325.7575 Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat Thru Sun, 7:00, Goppert Theater (Avila). Christian Youth Theater presents this beloved production. CYTKC.org

FRIDAY

Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast 7:30, Downtown Marriott. Purchase tickets and plan to attend our benefit breakfast for Reach Out and Read KC. ReachOutAndReadKC.org

reservations essential! call for showtimes tickets only $5.99!

CALL 913.642.7576 95TH & METCALF AVE, OP, KS kcparent.com march 2012

CYT presents Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat March 1-4

playground setting to play and make new friends. $1.50/child. 816.784.5200 Read Across America 10:00, Smithville Library. Storyteller Jo Ho shares some delightfully entertaining works of Dr Seuss. 816.532.0116 Johnson County Home & Garden Show Thru Sun, 10:00, OP Convention Center. If you’re looking to increase the size, value, comfort and appeal of your home, join us! 816.931.4686

Celebrate Dr Seuss’ Birthday 9:00, Whole Foods (7401 W 91st). Listen to Dr Seuss stories and have fun rhyming and coloring today. 913.652.9633 Baby Time Story Time 9:30, West Wyandotte Library. Infants under 23 months can participate in songs, action rhymes and finger plays. 913.596.5800 Animal Tales & Trails Exhibit Thru Apr 29, 10:00, Crown Center. Enter an interactive habitat where children learn about polar bears, penguins, kangaroos and more. 816.274.8444 Border Battle Tournament Thru Sun, Overland Park Soccer Complex. Heartland Soccer Association hosts this youth soccer event. HeartlandSoccer.net Midtown Play Group 10:00, Westport Roanoke Comm Ctr. Bring your young children to our indoor

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Dance America Dance Contest Today & tomorrow, Music Hall. See high energy dance and impressive talent. Ticketmaster.com Family Night 4:00, Little Monkey Bizness. Little ones can enjoy indoor play at a discount while Mom and Dad relax in our full-service coffee bar. Dr Seuss’ Birthday Party with Dino O’Dell 4:00, Blue Ridge Library. Celebrate Dr Seuss’ birthday with children’s songwriter and storyteller Dino O’Dell. 816.761.3382

SATURDAY

National History Day Regional Contest 8:00, Truman Library. For students in 6th-12th grades. Prizes available at each level of competition. 816.268.8236 Christian College Expo 9:30-2:00, Colonial Presbyterian. A FREE event featuring Christian Universities from 13 states! 816.524.4522

Build a Blue Bird House 10:00, George Owens Nature Park. Come build a bird house and learn where to place it, ecology, nesting and critical needs for blue birds. 816.325.7843 Kansas City Cake Fest Today & tomorrow, 10:00, KC Convention Center. Famous chefs bring their best cake designs to the Midwest. KCCakeFest.com Turtlemania 10:00, Prairie Oaks Nature Center. A fun reptiles class explaining the characteristics of turtles. Craft included. 913.681.0902 UMKC Kids Club 10:00, UMKC Performing Arts Center. Join the Youth Symphony of Kansas City as they perform music from around the world. 816.235.2900 Story Time 11:00, Barnes & Noble (Oak Park Mall). Attend a story time for preschoolers and their parents. 913.492.8187 Puppet Carnivale 11:00, Garrison Community Center. StoneLion Puppets presents a free, interactive puppet spectacle! 816.784.1140 Meet Clifford 11:00, Barnes & Noble (Oak Park Mall). Join us for a very special story time featuring Clifford the Big Red Dog! Bring your cameras! 913.492.8187 Family Magic Show 1:00, KC Improv. Come see some of the funniest and most entertaining magicians at this family-friendly event. 816.759.5233

We have everything you already love about our site plus a bunch of new features including: Calendar that’s TWENTY TIMES faster and has TEN TIMES more events! ALL NEW Party, Camp and Education Guides where parents can EASILY search by category & location featuring Google Maps PLUS see photos, video, hyperlinks and social media links. All the LATEST on Family Fun in Kansas City with insider tips on the best of the best PLUS Kids Eat Free and giveaways totaling over $1000 in March!

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kcparent.com march 2012

Snake Saturday Lad & Lassie Contest 1:00, NKC Community Center. Kids ages 2-7 dress up in their most festive green attire for the contest. NorthlandFestivals.com

Funk y PerfoMama rms Marc h 10:007th

Rep-Tails Noon & 2:00, Crown Center. Learn about some unique creatures, including alligators, chinchillas, snakes and tortoises. 816.274.8444 Special Needs Parents’ Night Out 5:30, Legacy Christian Church (Olathe & OP). Drop off individuals with special needs for a fun night of activities and 1-on-1 care. 913.962.5271 Danú 8:00, Yardley Hall (JCCC). Danú offers an authentic Irish musical experience, incorporating the flute, tin whistle and fiddle. 913.469.8500

SUNDAY

Special Swim 9:00, Matt Ross Community Center. Individuals with disabilities can attend a special swim time just for them. 913.895.6390 First Sunday Family Fun Day Noon, KC Museum. Learn all about the early settlement of the Town of Kansas, later to become Kansas City. 816.483.8300 Meet Me at the Museum 2:00, Kemper Museum. Join a Kemper docent for a lively discussion and tour of the museum’s current exhibitions for free. 816.753.5784 Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat 2:00, Goppert Theater (Avila). Christian Youth Theater presents this beloved production. CYTKC.org

Even Though I Was Shy, No

Tschaikowski St. Petersburg State Orchestra 2:00, Yardley Hall (JCCC). This orchestra will perform pieces by Wagner, Mozart and Mussorgsky. 913.469.8500

One Else Knew That But ME.

Gospel Skate Night 7:00, Skate World (Merriam). Skate with friends to catchy gospel music! $6/ skater, $1.50/skate rental. 913.262.0711

I Focused On Being The Best.

MONDAY

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Gym for Me Every Mon, 9:00, Lenexa Community Center. Children 5 and under are invited to run and play while making friends! Only $1. 913.541.0209 Moms Free Monday 10:00, Paradise Park. Moms receive a free admission to the Edutainment Center with the purchase of a full-priced child admission. 816.246.5224 Ball Time Mon-Fri, 3:00, Harris Park Community Center. At least one half court is always reserved for free play and shooting. 816.969.1540 Little Bit of Luck 7:00, Lone Jack Library. Stone Lion Puppets puts on a show about leprechauns and their search for gold. 816.697.2528

TUESDAY

Preschool Story Time Every Tue, 10:00, Grandview Library. Join our staff for music,

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14024 W 119th St, Olathe, KS 66062

(913) 829-8818 kcparent.com march 2012

Spring Break Splash Bash on March 9

Children ages 3-5 can participate in stories, music, movement, finger plays and crafts. 816.741.9011 Discover Maranatha 6:00, Maranatha Academy. Tour both campuses, see our curriculum and meet teachers, coaches, staff and current students. 913.631.0637 Breastfeeding Successfully 6:30, Centerpoint Medical Center. Learn helpful techniques and tips for successful breastfeeding. HealthyArrivals.org

WEDNESDAY

Toddler Story Time Every Wed, 9:30 & 10:30, Boardwalk Library. Foster early reading skills for your toddler through this program. 816.741.9011 movement, literacy-rich books and stories and more. Ages 3-5. 816.763.0550 Lucky Duck Thru Thu, 10:00, Folly Theatre. The ugly duckling becomes a singing swan superstar! Presented by the Coterie. 816.474.6552 Coffee Playground 10:00, OP First Assembly of God. Kids play on our inflatables, scooters, balls and toys in the gym for free. 913.432.3281 Diary of a Worm, a Spider and a Fly Thru Apr 14, Theatre for Young America. This funny play promotes recycling, eco-consciousness and earth sciences. 816.460.2083 Preschool Story Time 10:30, Boardwalk Library.

Play Group 10:00, Turner Library. Join us every first Wednesday of the month for stories, finger plays, songs, crafts and group play. 913.596.1404 Preschool Story Time 1:30, Lee’s Summit Library. Enjoy literacy-rich books and stories, finger plays, music and movement at this story time. 816.524.0567 KC Auto Show Thru Sun, 5:00, Bartle Hall. This year’s auto show is host to 500 new vehicles. KansasCityAutoShow.com

Tiny Tot Skate 9:30, Skate City. Bring your little one out to the rink! $5/child includes traditional skates, snack and drink. 913.888.6668

Big 12 Women’s and Men’s Basketball Championship Thru Sat, 5:00, Municipal Auditorium. Purchase your tickets and plan to attend quality basketball games. 1.800.745.3000

Rapunzel Puppet Show Thru Apr 4, 10:00, Paul Mesner Puppet Studio. Come see this adapted love story, veggie style! 816.756.3500

Family Story Time 7:00, Colbern Road Library. Come hear stories, sing songs and make a craft with the whole family. 816.525.9924

Funky Mama Concert 10:00, Johnson County Museum. Funky Mama brings her energetic performance to the museum for one show only! 913.715.2550

Traditional Irish Concert 7:30, Kauffman Center. The Chieftains have won six Grammy awards and bring traditional Irish music to the forefront. 816.994.7222

Big 12 Men’s Basketball Championship Thru Sat, Sprint Center. The Big 12 Men’s Basketball Championship heads back to Kansas City! Get your tickets today! SprintCenter.com

THURSDAY

Purchase Narnia Tickets Today Starlight Children’s Theatre presents Narnia: The Musical

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Story Time 10:00, Barnes & Noble (Town Center). Attend our weekly story time with your preschoolaged child. 913.491.4535

3/31/12

Join us at either location for: Monday Madness on March 12 & 19 Family Value Tuesdays on March 13 Wednesday Quartermania on March 14 Frenzy Friday on March 16 St. Partrick’s Saturday Rock-n-Bowl

Mission 5399 Martway Mission, KS 66205

913-432-7000

Olathe 1020 S. Weaver Olathe, KS 66061

913-782-0279

www.missionbowl.com

kcparent.com march 2012

April 6-8. Purchase your tickets to reserve your spot today. KauffmanCenter.org Free Play Cedar Ridge Christian Church. Daily free play for young children while you enjoy a coffee break. 913.393.3000 K-6th Open House 9:00, Heritage Christian Academy. Meet some of our staff, see our classrooms and ask questions at this open house. 913.782.3262 Rumpelstiltskin…Recycled?!? 10:00 Thru May 10, Martin City, Jr. Learn about history, environment and literature through this musically fractured fairytale. 913.642.7576 Family Library Time 4:30, Antioch Library. We’ll provide the materials and activities for you and your family to enjoy together. 816.454.1306

FRIDAY

Spring Break Skate Thru March 16, Skate City Legends. Roller skate for a discounted price of $4.50! Skate rental only $2. 913.788.7788 Baby Time Story Time 9:30, West Wyandotte Library. Infants under 23 months can participate in songs, action rhymes and finger plays. 913.596.5800 Melodies in Motion 9:30, Olathe Bible Church. A fun, educational music class for children ages 0-4 and their parents/caregiver. Cost is $8/family. 913.768.6974 Spring Break Splash Bash 10:00, Roeland Park Aquatic Center. Swim on over for organized games, activities and a hot dog lunch. Free/3 and under. 913.826.3160 Trout Stocking 2:30 (Heritage Park) & 3:45 (SM Park). Come see nearly 3,000 fish be stocked in the lakes today! JCPRD.com Animal Tea Party 6:30, Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. See delightful creatures in English pottery and make your own animal-shaped teapot. 816.751.1278 Blather, Blarney and Balderdash Thru Sun, 7:30, Blue Springs City Theatre. Three hilarious and action-packed Irish folk and fairy tales. 816.228.0137

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Pop Goes the Rock Thru Sun, 8:00, Music Hall. Cirque Dreams unites generations through celebrated pop and rock tunes spanning the decades. TicketMaster.com

SATURDAY

Pancakes for Penguins 9:00, KC Zoo. Chris Cakes and the Roasterie participate in helping us bring penguins to the zoo! Stick around for Kids Fun Fest at 10:00! 816.513.5723 Babysitter Boot Camp 9:00, Harris Park Community Center. Babysitters ages 10-17 will

Come to USA Baby and big kids too for the furniture that will make your nursery or big kids room shine! 7275 W 105th Street • OP, KS 66212 • 913.962.1503 • usababyks.com kcparent.com march 2012

Spring Break Bowling at Mission Bowl March 12-17

Seussapalooza 10:00, Kearney Library. Come celebrate Dr Seuss’ birthday with stories, videos and birthday cake! Pre-reg. 816.628.5055

St Patrick’s Day Warm Up Parade 2:00, Brookside. Bring the family to see this parade and celebrate St Pat’s Day in style! BrooksideKC.org

34th Annual Westport St Patrick’s Day Run 10:00, Westport. KC Track Club hosts a 4-mile run/ walk and a fun run for kids at 11:15. SportKC.org

Mother Nature Reads 10:00, Lakeside Nature Center. Every Saturday morning, hear a story, learn cool facts about animals and make something to take home. 816.513. Spring Tea Party 10:30, Anna Marie’s Teas. Enjoy the freshness of green tea at this full tea party. $20.45/each. 816.792.8777 Talkin’ Truman 11:00, Truman Library. Attend our informative program highlighting rarely seen and unique items for the library’s collections. 816.268.

learn discipline techniques, child safety, first aid, CPR and more. 816.969.1540 Bird in Hand 9:00, Schlagle Library. Join us for an up close and personal look at the songbirds visiting the library’s feeders. 913.299.2384 Snake Saturday Parade & Festival 10:00, North KC. Join us for a parade, carnival, petting zoo, car show, live entertainment and free pony rides! NorthlandFestivals.com

Emerald Isle St Patrick’s Day Parade 1:00, Downtown Lee’s Summit. Our parade will include more than 50 entries all decked out in green! DowntownLS.org Family Magic Show 1:00, KC Improv. Come see some of the funniest and most entertaining magicians at this family-friendly event. 816.759.5233 Leprechaun Magic 2:00, Lee’s Summit Library. Kids interact to make their own rainbows in the “8 Silly Rabbits Magic Show” that celebrates leprechauns. 816.524.0567

SUNDAY

Irishpalooza Parade & Festival 11:00, Downtown Martin City. Kick off the day with a festival and entertainment, followed by a parade at 2:00. Irishpalooza.com Shawnee St Patrick’s Day Parade 1:00, Shawnee. Don your Irish green and head downtown for a favorite event! CityOfShawnee.org Completely Hollywood 3:30, Thru May 6, Martin City Melodrama. A hilarious spoof of Hollywood and the movies. A fun afternoon date! $10.99. 913.642.7576. Jake Shimabukuro 7:00, Yardley Hall (JCCC). Jake and his ukulele mix the sounds of jazz, rock, classical and traditional Hawaiian music effortlessly. 913.469.8500

MONDAY

Ice Skating Thru Mar 18, Noon Mon-Fri, 10:00 Sat & Sun, Crown Center Ice Terrace. Kansas City may not have snow, but we’ve got a great outdoor ice skating rink! 816.274.8411 Peter and the Wolf Puppet Show 10:00, Blue Valley Rec Center. Piccadilly Puppets presents this fun-filled show for all ages. 913.837.3544

IRISH RESTAURANTS IN KC St. Patrick’s Day is just around the corner. So why not take the family out to a delicious meal of fish ‘n chips, shepherd’s pie, corned beef and cabbage or Irish stew at one of Kansas City’s authentic Irish restaurants? Keep in mind most of these restaurants are Irish pubs, so lunch and early dinner are the best dining times for the whole family.

Browne’s Irish Market

O’Malley’s 1842 Irish Pub

O’Dowd’s Little Dublin

500 Welt St., Weston, MO, 816.640.5235, WestonIrish.com The Scoop: The menu includes salads, sandwiches, steaks, soups and, of course, fish ‘n chips. I enjoy the signature sandwich, “the O’Malley,” which is corned beef, swiss cheese and slaw on marble rye bread with spicy brown mustard.

kcparent.com march 2012

3300 Pennsylvania Ave., KCMO, 816.561.0030, BrownesMarket.com The Scoop: The Irish Market opened in Kansas City in 1887. The family’s fifth generation now carries on the tradition, serving a wide variety of Irish delicacies. Enjoy handmade sandwiches, Irish potato soup, Irish stew, Dublin potato salad and more, as well as Irish souvenirs.

Two Locations - Country Club Plaza at 4742 Pennsylvania, KCMO, 816.561.2700 & Zona Rosa at 8600 N.W. Prairie View Rd., KCMO, 816.268.6333, ODowdsLittleDublin.com The Scoop: O’Dowd’s Little Dublin is known for “the BEST American pub eats and Irish treats in Kansas City!” Enjoy fish ‘n chips, Irish stew, corned beef, reubens and shepherd’s pie.

Riley’s Irish Pub & Grill

913 Main, Lexington, MO, 660.259.4770, RileysPub.net The Scoop: Riley’s has a delightfullythemed menu for the wee ones! Children choose from Leprechaun Toes (mini corn dogs), Charmin’ Fingers (Chicken Strips), grilled Dublin cheese sandwich or classic fish ‘n chips.

O’Quigley’s

Multiple locations across the Metro, OQuigleys.com The Scoop: From Irish stew to fish ‘n chips, you’ll find all your favorite Irish dishes at O’Quigley’s. Prices range from $8 to $20. For TONS of fun St. Patrick’s Day events in Kansas City, visit ALL NEW KCParent.com!

Monday Madness Today and March 19, 10:00, Mission Bowl (Olathe & Mission). For $8 get 2 games of bowling and shoe rental. Add pizza and drink for $4. MissionBowl.com Moms Free Monday 10:00, Paradise Park. Moms receive a free admission to the Edutainment Center with the purchase of a full-priced child admission. 816.246.5224 Spring Fling Fun Thru Fri, 10:00 & 2:00, Ernie Miller Nature Park. Park naturalists will entertain guests with a special program each day. 913.764.7759 Spring Break Skate Thru Fri, 2:00, Landmark Skate. Bring your friends for some skating fun at a great price! Only $3.75 plus $1 skate rental. 816.524.2000

all aboard!

Egg Hunt Trains March 31 & April 7 Trains depart at 9 & 11 am, 2 & 4 pm each day.

13 TUESDAY Babes in the Woods 10:00, Burr Oak Woods. Children under 3 can join us for this springtime stroll and have opportunities to explore and crawl outside. 816.228.3766 Alphabet Express Story Time 10:00, Bonner Springs Library. Toddlers ages 1-2 can enjoy a story time just for them. 913.441.2665

now enrolling for spring!

Adults, $14 (12 & over) Child, $7 (Ages 1-11) Under 1, Free (In arms)

Snack Science 4:30, Grandview Library. Tweens can experiment with food through skydiving eggs, magnetic cereal and cerulean celery! 816.763.0550

Leighâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s School of Dance