KC Parent Magazine May 2014

Where you find family, you will find us.

FREE May 2014 KCParent.com Since 1985

get out and play! frugal fun for spring days

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m m! { cute flower craft } { meet local moms } { great gift ideas }

teaching kids self-respect

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do you want free braces see pg. 55 for details

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Be sure to bring a camera to capture the grace and beauty of the Budweiser Clydesdales as they move freely in their natural environment and provide once-in-a-lifetime photo opportunities.

Budweiser samples will be offered along with the opportunity to visit our gift shop.

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It’s absolutely FREE for those who register.

For more information, including a list of our featured movies and to register your family for each Friday Film Fest, please visit myMosaicLifeCare.org/event. Movies under the Stars with your lawn chairs and blankets — FREE at Mosaic Life Care.

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Mosaic Life Care at Shoal Creek Life Center Entrance 8870 NE 82nd Terrace Kansas City, MO 64158

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MAY 2014

DEPARTMENTS LOCAL MOM PROFILES, PG. 46

FEATURES

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Little Free Library A neighborhood jewel for book lovers

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Teacher Gifts Great ideas for Teacher Appreciation Day

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Word from Dad

16

Craft Corner

18

Faith & Family

30

Healthy Kids

31

Women’s Health

43

Blog Bits

50

Media Mix

SPECIAL SECTIONS 24

Party Guide

32

Camp Guide

52

Calendar of Events

Board Games Positive lessons to learn from games Our cover kid is Chiton from Shawnee. Cover and select interior photos by KiaBondurant.com Where you find family, you will find us.

ON THE COVER Teaching Self-Respect 14 Flower Craft

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Get Out and Play! 20 Gift Ideas for Mom

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Local Mom Profiles

46

Braces Giveaway

55

FREE May 2014 KCParent.com Since 1985

get out and play! frugal fun for spring days

celebrate

m m! { cute flower craft } { meet local moms } { great gift ideas }

teaching kids self-respect

?

do you want free braces see pg. 55 for details

kcparent.com may 2014

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kcparent.com may 2014

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EDITOR’SLETTER MAY 2014 Publisher Michael Gimotty Michael@KCParent.com Associate Publisher Darrell Dean Darrell@KCParent.com Editor Margaret Sarver Margaret@KCParent.com

T

Happy May and Happy End of School Year, KC!!!

Margaret Sarver, Editor

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Art Director Lauren Goldman Lauren@KCParent.com Advertising Sales Darrell Dean Lynn Hawkins Advertising@KCParent.com Electronic Media Manager Kristina Light Kristina@KCParent.com Event Calendar Susan Hawke Calendar@KCParent.com Proofreader Susan Crainshaw Susan@KCParent.com Distribution To be added to our distribution list, e-mail Distribution@KCParent.com

100% LOCAL

Local Contributing Writers Bill Bartlett (Belton), Gretchen Brittain (Overland Park), Karah Chapman (Kansas City), Wendy Connelly (Overland Park), Amanda Doll (Lenexa), Tisha Foley (Belton), Jessica Heine (Olathe), Jennifer Higgins (Kearney), Megan Kapple (Kansas City), Alyssa Klimek (Kansas City), Kristina Light (Kansas City), Jane Martin (Overland Park), Jena Meyerpeter (Lenexa), Melanie Yunger (Shawnee) Business Office 11936 W. 119th #335, Overland Park, KS 66213 913.782.3238 phone • 913.681.5139 fax OUR PRODUCTS Where you find family, you will find us.

kansas city’s #1 attraction guide

spring/summer 2014 FREE

FREE May 2014 KCParent.com Since 1985

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teaching kids selfrespect

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do you want free braces see pg. 55 for details

kcparent.com may 2014

LABOR & DELIVERY ISSUE

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50 WAYS TO FALL IN LOVE WITH KC watch it made DIY destinations magical waterfalls city nights for grown-ups

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local moms love!

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his is a parenting magazine and, of course, we love to celebrate moms not only in May, but throughout the year.

I have to brag on my mom a bit, as I think I was blessed with the world’s best! For years she was only my mom, but I so enjoy the fact that now we’re not only mother and daughter, we’re also good friends.

Lenexa mom Amanda Doll had a fun idea for this year’s Mother’s Day article.

She suggested we hear from kids about their moms. I know you’ll enjoy peeking into the lives of six local moms (and she was sweet to include me—I didn’t edit my girls’ responses at all— so now you know the real truth!). In the spirit of the article, here’s what I’d share about my mom: “All About Maureen” by Margaret What is your favorite thing to do with your mom? Girls trip! When I’m not home, my mom loves to: Sleep. What is something your mom is really good at? Being generous and a friend to everyone. How did I do, Mom? The good news is I know she’ll see this, because she is KC Parent’s number one reader in St. Louis!

Along with celebrating moms in May, we celebrate teachers and all they have done for our kids throughout the school year. As co-chair of our school’s staff appreciation committee, I work hard with my committee to let teachers know they are appreciated during Teacher Appreciation Week in May. Overland Park mom Gretchen Brittain has come up with some cute and clever homemade gifts that your kids can make today to let your teachers know how special they are. So easy that even this craft-challenged mom can make this work!

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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.

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kcparent.com may 2014

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little free library I getting started How to find one: Go to LittleFreeLibrary.org and click on the map. There are only nine listed in the Kansas City area, so be sure to register yours if you already have one!

How to create one: If you don’t have your own neighborhood Little Free Library, it’s easy to get started. All you need is a weatherproof container, a good spot in your front yard where passersby can see it and some books to share. Once again, you can go to LittleFreeLibrary.org to get inspired and to register your own library once it’s up and running.

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n summer 2012, we came upon a neighborhood library on our evening walk. Consisting of a brightly painted, oversized, old-fashioned rural mailbox, complete with a little bench next to it, the little library beckoned us to open the door and find it full of books for exchange. It was our first Little Free Library experience, and it gave our kids extra motivation to spend extra time reading that summer—all with the anticipation of going back to the library to see what books were available to “check out” the next time.

“I heard about the Little Free Library movement through an NPR story broadcast in March 2012. I was so fascinated by this story that I came home and immediately looked up more information on LittleFreeLibrary.org. I was instantly hooked,” says Meg Holloway, who adds the role of our neighborhood’s Little Free Library curator to her other jobs as mother, advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) and instructor at Blue Valley

School District’s Center for Advanced Professional Studies (CAPS).

According to LittleFreeLibrary.org, a Little Free Library is a “‘take a book, return a book’ gathering place.” It comes in all shapes and sizes, but it is essentially a weatherproof box full of books where anyone can stop by and exchange one book for another.

Little Free Library, as it is known today, began in Hudson, WI, in 2009. The movement has quickly expanded to an estimated 10,000-12,000 neighborhood libraries around the nation, with thousands more being built. The libraries come in all shapes and sizes, but they all have common goals: to promote literacy and create a sense of community.

It’s a simple concept, but it has brought an added sense of community to our south Overland Park neighborhood.

“Just having this simple mailbox full of books has opened doors for more connections, friendships and sharing the love of reading with others. Plus, it makes people smile!” says Holloway.

According to Holloway, she and her family have hosted two walking field trips from the neighborhood elementary school. What’s more, they are enjoying the fact that kids get a chance to see an oldfashioned mailbox and learn about the honor system—when you take one book out, you replace it with another book.

“I was deeply interested in creating something that promotes the honor system. Our communities used to have more interactions based on trade and the honor system—I wanted to create an example of that for my daughter’s generation.”

As for my family, we are already enjoying catching up with our neighbors at our Little Free Library and are looking forward to the great summer reading that awaits us!

Jane Blumenthal Martin lives in Overland Park with her husband and two children.

I am ... … a Displays Curator. … an aquarium designer. … an outdoorsman. … a scuba diver. … a blood donor. … an educator. … a listener. listene … a leader. … caring.

Aaron has an amazing job as Displays Curator at SEA LIFE Aquarium Kansas City! He is always busy making sure the sea creatures and reptiles, like Speedy, the African Spurred Tortoise are cared for and have great living spaces. Aaron’s busy job doesn’t stop him from being a loyal and dedicated blood donor who takes 60 minutes of his time every 56 days to help save a life in his community.

Who are you?

savealifenow.org kcparent.com may 2014

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great gifts for terrific teachers Teacher Appreciation Week always sneaks up on me, so I’ve gathered five budget friendly and easy DIY gifts that you can throw together in 20 minutes or less. These supplies are locally available at Hobby Lobby, Michael’s, Jo-Ann’s, Dollar Tree, Walmart and Target, as well. I also created free printable gift tags that you can download at my Three Little Monkeys Studio blog (see sources below).

GARDENING GIFT If your teacher has a green thumb, have your children help you pick out and fill a pot or container with gardening supplies. Dollar Tree’s and Target’s dollar bins are great places to find cute and inexpensive gardening supplies.

I purchased all of these items at Dollar Tree for $7. Add packets of seeds, gloves, gardening supplies and maybe some sunscreen or a balm, and then finish with a fun chalkboard “Teachers plant the seeds of tomorrow” gift tag with a sweet note from your child on the back and a bit of ribbon for a finishing touch.

BEE BASKET Every teacher deserves some pampering, so why not throw together a basket of themed beauty products? In this basket, Burt’s Bees honey products form the basis of the theme. I placed them in a wood berry basket, wrapped them with ribbon and added a free printable tag that says “You will always bee my favorite teacher” with a space to add your child’s name.

A TEA-RIFFIC GIFT If your child’s teacher has a favorite beverage, such as sun tea or lemonade, pack a cute drink container with the favorite items. This cute Mason jar-style cup was just $1 at Dollar Tree. Put some crinkle paper in the bottom that is the same color as the favorite beverage, pack with tea bags, packets of lemonade, etc. Add a cute tag and a bit of ribbon. In keeping with the tea theme of this gift, I added a “You are a tea-rrific teacher!” gift tag that looks like a tea bag. Just add a sweet note from your child on the back. You could even tuck in a gift card.

Burt’s Bees products - Walmart; Free printable gift tags and art print - Three Little Monkeys Studio, ThreeLittleMonkeysStudio.com/five-easy-teacher-appreciation-gift-ideas; Mason jar cup, frame, crinkle paper, flower, garden supplies - Dollar Tree

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Succulents and terra cotta pots - Suburban Lawn & Garden Gold paint, ribbon - Hobby Lobby

GOLD-DIPPED SUCCULENTS Succulents make wonderful gifts, because they require so little maintenance. To make these trendy gold-dipped pots, start with a long piece of tape, and press the middle section of tape down first about an inch from the bottom of the pot. As you work your way around the pot pressing the ends down from the middle, the tape will gradually go on at an angle since the pot is wider at the top than the bottom. Once your pot is taped, have your child help you paint the bottom portion of the pot in gold metallic paint that works on clay. Once dry, peel your tape off and pot your succulent. Let your child sign his name on the “Thank you for helping me grow” gift tag and tie it on with a ribbon or tie the tag onto a gold swizzle stick (pictured). The tag even has instructions for caring for the succulent on the bottom. Makes a fun and stylish gift.

When it comes to teens and alcohol, consistency is the golden rule.

Setting rules—and sticking to them— can help prevent underage drinking.

Our high-schoolers have a lot of milestones ahead of them: prom, graduation and college. At times, it may be tempting to relax the rules and let them celebrate with alcohol. But according to

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experts, that’s a big mistake. We’ve spent a lot of time teaching them to respect the rules, and if we start to make exceptions, we may send the signal that underage drinking is a “grey area.”

More than ever, this is the time to maintain consistency; “A BIG HEART” ART PRINT For a really budget friendly gift, frame a meaningful poem or quote.

This “It takes a big heart to help shape little minds” print is from my blog. I printed it on my home printer on card stock and then framed it in a dollar store frame that I painted with some white spray paint.

Have your child sign the back of the frame for a personal gift.

Gretchen Brittain is a local stationery designer, party stylist and mom to her three young children (monkeys) who are a constant source of inspiration. Visit her at ThreeLittleMonkeysStudio.com for all things party!

special events don’t call for special rules. To learn more, join us on Facebook and download our free Parent Guide.

facebook.com/ABFamilyTalk © 2012 Anheuser-Busch, St. Louis, MO

kcparent.com may 2014

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self-respect deserves more respect

H

Help them pursue new activities, and if they struggle with the idea that they might fail, let them know that it’s okay if they make mistakes or fail. But they won’t know until they give it a try.

Watch for...

• Negative self-talk • Withdrawing from previously desired activities • Statements revolving around hating their skills or image • Hesitating to try new things

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ealthy self-respect is an admirable trait in any adult. So is understanding that when we inevitably fail, we can get back up, dust ourselves off and move forward without compromising what we believe in or losing our core sense of self. A strong employee and friend is one that respects herself enough to stick to it when things are hard and not compromise when it would be easier to give in. So how do people end up with these admirable strengths? A parent, teacher or mentor taught them through conversation and modeling of these behaviors.

School counselor Jennifer Burnett recommends the art of modeling desired behaviors. “To build self-esteem and self-respect, it’s good to model positive self-talk in front of your kids. Instead of complaining about your weight for instance, talk about healthy choices that you are making, such as ‘I’m so glad I got my workout in today. It makes me feel so strong and healthy when I do,” she says.

This demonstrates the ability to focus on the healthy things in your life.

“You can also have them brainstorm the things they are good at doing or want to improve at, then talk with them about how they could enhance those skills they are good at and improve the areas where they need improvement,” Burnett says.

Sharon, a Kansas City mother of two and educator herself, follows this rule with her middle school age son. “When we notice that he is starting to talk bad about himself or appears down in his body language, we ask him specific

questions to guide his thinking, such as ‘What made you feel this way?’, ‘What do you think you can do to grow from this?’, ‘What did you do well in the situation?’

Our hope is that he will begin to learn to engage in this thinking more naturally,” she says.

While it’s never too early to begin working on your child’s self-respect, the need to do so may become very apparent with the advent of the “tween” years. “The impact of peer pressure and kids’ really trying to find their place in the world really starts to take shape in the late elementary/middle school years,” Burnett says. “They want to fit in and not stand out from the crowd.”

While Sharon’s son has always been naturally hard on himself, she says his self-criticism has become more distinct as he has grown into the late elementary years. “He is an overachiever; it’s his personality. But his being hard on himself has become even more pronounced now that he is getting to an age where he is starting to be concerned with not just what he thinks, but what others think, too—friends, girls, etc.”

When cultivating self-respect, a good place to start is in the areas where your child excels, and the growth comes with pushing him out of his comfort zone, “There are things that he does well and enjoys, and we encourage those activities. They help him to appreciate his strengths,” notes Sharon. “We also encourage him to step out of his comfort zone. When we do this and he ends up being good at the activity, we see his selfesteem grow.”

Burnett agrees that encouraging children to try new things is important for building self-respect. “Help them pursue new activities, and if they struggle with the idea that they might fail, let them know that it’s okay if they make mistakes or fail. But they won’t know until they give it a try.”

If you are struggling with ways to help your child feel good about himself or to try new things, there are people who can help. School counselors and school social workers are equipped with strategies and recommendations for you to use with your child. Burnett also recommends LoveAndLogic.com as a parenting resource to explore.

Karah Chapman is a school psychologist in the Kansas City area who enjoys the bright light that shines when kids accomplish something they never thought they could!

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kcparent.com may 2014

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CRAFTCORNER

cotton swab flowers

Materials needed: Styrofoam ball Cotton swabs Food coloring Artificial flower stem Scissors

The great thing about handmade flowers is that they don’t require watering and never wilt! These cotton swab flowers are so fun to make and they are an adorable way to bring a bright pop of color indoors. Everyone will be surprised to find out that they are made out of cotton swabs and food coloring. Help your children make just one of these festive blooms or an entire bouquet to give to that special lady in their life.

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Begin by cutting the tips off of the cotton swabs. Each cotton swab needs to be about an inch long. Push the cotton swabs into the Styrofoam ball until the ball is completely covered in the cotton swabs. Next, mix some food coloring (any color will work) with water. Roll the ball in the fool coloring until the swabs are fully saturated with color. Set it aside to dry for about 24 hours. Once the flower is fully dry, push an artificial flower stem into the ball to complete the look.

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

I am ... … a Sporting KC fan. … a First-grader. … a music lover. … a princess. … a singer. … a blood recipient. … a super hero. … a fighter. … a sister. … caring. … brave.

Super Jasmine, is a super hero who loves having fun! She enjoys entertaining her family with her beautiful voice and her adorable smile. Jasmine is also a brave young girl who battles High Risk Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. She continues to fight the good fight when she receives super powers, following one of her many blood transfusions. She is thankful for blood donors who took just 60 minutes of their time to help save her life.

Who are you? savealifenow.org kcparent.com may 2014

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FAITH&FAMILY

summer

A

s school winds down, I get really wound up. My head’s spinning like a top, and my legs want to take me in five different directions at once because that’s precisely where I need to be—somebody, clone me! There are room parent responsibilities, after school hobbies, graduate school, conferences, articles, Pinterest-pressure and more. All good things. Wonderful things. Things I’ll look back on with enormous, heartswelling gratitude. The only trouble with all these important things is that, in this hectic season, they don’t leave room for the All-Important. Good things are getting in the way of the best thing. And this mama needs Sabbath.

God gave us Sabbath as a gift: “And Jesus said to them, ‘The Sabbath was made for (wo)man, not (wo)man for the Sabbath.’” (Mark 2:27) I ask, then, who are we to refuse God’s rest?

As summer looms near with its promise of repose, I’m reclaiming my life. I need to unravel this tangle-of-toomuch before it unravels me. For the love

sabbath of God and family, I want to buck the bucket list and build sandcastles with my kids, dodge the day camps and camp out under the stars, pray just long enough to listen for the still, small voice deafened by frenetic life. I’m declaring a summer Sabbath. I hope you, weary one, will join me in getting deliberate about rest and rejuvenation.

A.M. SNUGGLE VS. STRUGGLE: No more morning obligations! Summer offers sleepy, pajama-clad mornings. To make the most of them, invite your kids to storm your bed at an agreed-upon time each morning for prayers and devotions.

What a beautiful way to frame the day the Lord has made.

PICKING PLAY OVER PROGRAMS: We have to let go the paradigm that opting out is missing out. Studies show that kids who play, romp, create and learn the art of boredom-management are happier than over-programmed kids. Instead of scheduling programs into empty calendar space, protect the joys of childhood.

This summer, pick play over programs.

Spa

ce is

lim

Wendy Connelly is a mother of two and graduate student at St. Paul School of Theology, Leawood.

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WINDING DOWN, NOT UP: Think midday siesta, not fiesta. I always marveled at the riposo in Italy, when the streets emptied, the shops closed and all settled in for a long afternoon rest.

Our family’s been practicing the art of the summer riposo for years, snatching a two-hour quiet time in the afternoons around 2:00. Kids can read, draw, build or rest in their rooms, and Mom gets some much-needed solitude (resist the urge to fold laundry!).

HOME VS. ROAM: We’re so tempted to hit everything on our bucket lists that we use them to whack ourselves over the head. This must stop. Two days a week, I implore you to stay in the neighborhood.

Ride bikes, hit the pool or park and sip a glass of lemonade with the next-doors as the kids cartwheel through sprinklers.

Imagine visiting with neighbors! Let’s revive the lost art of raising children in community.

kcparent.com may 2014

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om, can I ride my bike to the library?” I held my breath. Mom knew the route: more than a mile, under an interstate, across two busy streets and an active railroad. But, by the middle of summer vacation, I was bored and desperate.

Mom was silent. I didn’t disturb her.

After a moment that seemed like an hour, she spoke. “Okay. But be careful, and walk your bike across the streets and the tracks.”

My spirits soared. I hooked a bag over my handlebars and pedaled off into the summer heat. Thirty minutes later, I stood over a library air conditioning vent that blew away my fatigue.

Triumphant over obstacles, heat and boredom, I presented my choice for checkout.

The librarian glanced at my selection. “Do you have a library card?”

“No.” “You’ll have to fill out an application, and I’ll need to see your ID.” ID? I was 11. What ID? Schools didn’t even issue them. Near home, a flash of brilliance struck. It seemed sound, but dicey. Still, it was my only shot.

The next day, I strode to the librarian’s desk and presented the application along with my ID. I’d cut out a blank card from the side of a box and filled it out, even taping a school photo in the square reserved for a picture. The gray-haired librarian studied the documents through her glasses, then turned to regard the skinny, sweat-stained boy. She held my gaze. I held my breath.

“Okay,” she said.

In minutes, I held my first library card.

I never knew why this saintly lady pronounced my cobbled ID satisfactory.

Maybe she thought I deserved a reward for creativity and perseverance. But, I think this lady had children. Like my mother did when granting permission, she did what a mom would do.

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William R. Bartlett lives in Belton with his family. kcparent.com may 2014

19

GET OUT & PLAY! Ahhhhh…the temperature is climbing, school will be out soon and families are itching to get out of the house. Read on for frugal ideas for outdoor fun the whole family can enjoy.

KITES You can buy a basic kite for a

few bucks, or your kiddos can make one themselves using items you have around the house. Go to Kids.NationalGeographic. com/Kids/ and type “make a kite” in the search box for do-it-yourself instructions. Be sure to fly the kite in an open area, away from power lines.

PICNIC Kids love out-of-the-ordinary

meals; surprise them with a feast outdoors.

You can picnic in your own yard or take the meal to a favorite park. Don’t forget the blanket and Frisbee!

NATURE WALK Spring is in full swing, providing numerous opportunities to view nature in all its glory. Take the family for a jaunt around the neighborhood and see if you can find an object for each letter of the alphabet: A is for ant, B is for bird’s nest, etc.

WATER FUN Newsflash: kids love water!

You don’t have to visit a pricey water park for kids to have a great time splashing around. Sprinklers, water balloons, kiddie pools, water guns, even small tubs of water with cups and bath toys can provide an afternoon of fun in your backyard.

BACKYARD CAMPING Spend the night under the stars right in your own backyard. If you don’t have a tent, perhaps you can borrow one from a friend. Another option is to buy an inexpensive tent; a neighbor or friend with kids might want to split the cost with you and share in the fun.

Of course, no campout is complete without yummy s’mores!

SCAVENGER HUNT This is another fun activity to do during a neighborhood stroll.

Make a checklist of items to find before you leave the house. Ideas might include a lawnmower, bicycle, garden hose, butterfly, barbecue grill, dandelion and lawn chair. See who can spot the most items during the walk.

BUBBLES Who doesn’t love a little bubble fun? Dollar stores offer all kinds of inexpensive bubble wands and guns to add to the entertainment. Or try this: stir 2 tablespoons of tempera paint or 15 drops of food coloring into a half cup of bubble solution. Tape a large piece of paper to a tree and have your child blow bubbles against it, creating colorful circles and splatters. Be sure

20

kcparent.com may 2014

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BIKE TRAILS There are numerous trails in

the Kansas City area with gorgeous scenery to take in as your family pedals along.

Many trails have playgrounds and creeks along the route, providing an opportunity to take a break for some playtime. See pg.

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FLASHLIGHT TAG Outdoor fun isn’t just

for daylight hours. Try a twist on the classic game of tag in the yard after dark. Designate someone as “it” and give him or her a flashlight. “It” counts to 20 while everyone hides. Instead of tagging people, “it” shines the flashlight on anyone he or she can find; the first person to be in the beam of light is the next “it.”

PHOTO HIKE Kids love taking pictures— buy some disposable cameras (or give them one of your old cameras) and take them for a hike or a walk, encouraging them to snap photos of anything they find interesting. Adults can get in on the fun, also! Afterwards, everyone can arrange their photos in a collage or scrapbook.

NATURE CENTERS Kansas City boasts a variety of nature centers, many of which offer free admission. Families can see live animals, participate in activities and story times, walk through botanical gardens, hike on nearby trails and even fish in ponds.

KCParent.com has a complete list of nature centers in our area.

Tisha Foley and her family live in Belton.

They love to hit bike trails on nice days.

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kcparent.com may 2014

21

report card rivals O

ne child is better at math, while another is better at English.

One child is athletic but cannot study, while one child is gifted academically but is not a bit athletic. Raising kids who are different can be challenging at times, one of which is grade card time. When school is easier for one child than another, parents face some tough situations.

“All three of my children approached school in different ways. I had one who was a 4.0 and strived to achieve A’s on everything, another one who cared about school but was okay if he earned a few B’s along the way.

Then, finally, my third child who did just enough to earn the C average,” Barbara Williams, mother of three from Kansas City, says.

Williams says that, at first, the youngest child drove them crazy because they wanted him to always strive for the best. But eventually they just accepted that their children had different personalities. Once they realized that, the situation became easier to handle.

“I never expected straight A’s from my kids, but I always wanted them to do their best, and that was at the very least average. Grade card time for my youngest, who was okay with average, could be stressful. But I would always

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finish with a conversation about effort, results and why it’s important to do your best,” Williams says.

A way to handle the differences in children is to embrace those differences and set individual goals.

Grade card time for my youngest, who was okay with average, could be stressful.

But I would always finish with a conversation about effort, results and why it’s important to do your best.

“One thing that we did was to have different goals for each kiddo. So a goal for one would be a B in some classes, or even a C, depending on how hard it was, and another’s goal would be straight A’s. We tried to not put so much emphasis on the actual grades. I didn’t want B to feel like she wasn’t good enough just because her sister was getting good grades and she wasn’t,” Melanie Basty, Kearney mother of three, says.

Another suggestion is to celebrate successes in different ways, based on individual strengths.

“One child was really good in art and would bring home really cool

drawings that we put on the fridge for display. On the other hand, if one got an A on a hard test, it would go there, too,” Basty says.

While some parents get wrapped up in letter grades, some parents are less concerned with that actual letter, but more concerned with the learning that comes along with it.

“I’m more concerned with learning than grades. I would rather my son take a course that will challenge him to learn and grow (and possibly get a B or C) than one in which he is just going to practice that which he already knows (and learn nothing and get an A),” Kimberly Brownlee, Liberty mother of three, says. “Grades aren’t important, and I have always stressed that to my boys.”

While putting emphasis on grades can be important, it’s also important to remember that eventually children do grow up, and grades aren’t as crucial.

“All three have graduated from college and are living good lives, even my C average student,” Williams says.

“You never know how people are going to turn out until they grow up.”

Jennifer Higgins is a freelance writer, mother and teacher from Kearney who wants all her students to do their best.

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board game fun facts…

• The most expensive Monopoly game is worth $2 million dollars. The Sidney Mobell Monopoly set was crafted with rubies, sapphires, diamonds and gold. Even the dice are diamond encrusted.

• Candy Land was designed by Eleanor Abbott in 1945 for children recovering from polio.

For a list of fun board games to play with your family, visit KCParent.com.

• According to the Toy Industry Association, $1.86 billion worth of games and puzzles were sold in the United States in 2013.

• Archaeologists believe the board game Mancala, or a version of it, dates back to 1600 B.C. • There are 84 words in the English language that contain a “Q” with no “U”…hint, hint, Scrabble players.

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kcparent.com may 2014

A

s another school year comes to an end, kids across the metro will close up their textbooks and set their sights on afternoons poolside, free from the confines of a classroom. Minds may downshift into relaxed gears as the hazy days of summer set in, but that doesn’t mean learning has to come to a complete halt. Board games provide a rich, in-depth learning experience through play that both kids and adults enjoy. The research is in, and it turns out that board games are more than just entertainment. They actually improve brain functions like memory, reasoning, logic and social skills, to name a few. From classics to the latest trends, board games are back and better than ever. So switch off those screens and sneak in some educational fun this summer.

The younger the child, the simpler the rules, but don’t dismiss these early childhood games. They really pack a punch in areas such as mathematics, socialization and reading. Leah Heinhauer, a former elementary teacher and Kansas City mom to four kids under the age of 7,

loves the benefits kids gain from family game time. “Go Fish is a great game for kids learning to count, recognize numbers and take turns,” Heinhauer says. “We also love the game Hedbanz. It’s really fun yet requires them to deduce their own clues.” Chutes and Ladders, Candy Land, Dominoes and Memory may be obvious choices, but consider branching out and trying games like Sequence for Kids, Zingo!, Bug Trail, Scrabble Junior and the Sneaky Snack Squirrel Game. Beyond the layers of cognitive development and fun, kids are also engaged in high quality, uninterrupted relational time while playing games. It’s a win-win from every angle.

Choosing the right games for children’s interests and abilities can be challenging. Katrina Kanary, local homeschooling mom of three, says, “What we look for in a good educational game is a combination of interest and education. I love to find games that can develop skills like cooperation, fair play, strategy, logic and reasoning—anything that expands their frame of reference and gets them to think outside the box or a game that reinforces knowledge sets (like Uno) and inspires their imaginations (like Blokus).

However, the most educational game in the world is useless if they don’t enjoy it!”

Kanary also values how playing board games helps children learn what it means to play fair and cooperate. In all the competitive environments our children face, it’s important they learn to walk away as gracious losers and winners. Why not give them the opportunities to test out those character qualities over board games, where succeeding and failing are natural parts of the game?

Every year the IQ-based group Mensa America gathers to choose their favorite board games, and the top five earn the highly coveted “Mensa Select Seal.” These are tried and true board games judged on criteria like originality, creativity, longevity and fun. Maybe your family’s summer challenge could be to test all five of the 2013 winners and see whether you agree with the group’s selections. Last year’s winners were KerFlip, Forbidden Desert, Ghooost, Kulami and Suburbia. You can find out more information at Mindgames.US.Mensa.org This summer, pour the lemonade, slice up the watermelon and play a game.

Play some classics and try out some new games you’ve read about here. You’ll thank yourself later, knowing memories were made, laughter was had and brains were challenged.

Kansas City writer and mom Jena Meyerpter avoids Monopoly like a stubbed toe and loves a great game of Scrabble. kcparent.com may 2014

27

destination fun!

Spend a day (or two) having fun and saving money in Topeka Gage Park Mini-Train and Carousel Combat Air Museum 7016 SE Forbes Ave., 785.862.3303

Fly over to the Combat Air Museum to see more than 30 military aircraft from WWI to present day. This is one of a handful of major U.S. aviation museums located on an active airfield. Explore large and small aircraft and test your landing skills with the flight simulator.

Old Prairie Town 124 NW Fillmore St., 785.251.2989

Step back in time at this 6-acre pioneer village located on the Oregon Trail. Experience life as a pioneer with a guided tour of a prairie mansion, log cabin, one-room schoolhouse, working soda fountain and Santa Fe train depot.

Gage Park Mini-Train and Carousel Gage Park, 785.251.2600

Enjoy a vacation in Topeka and save while doing it! With the Topeka Vacation Value Card, great discounts on many of Topeka’s visitor attractions are always close at hand. The Topeka Vacation Value Card offers more than $100 in savings to make your Topeka vacation memorable and affordable.

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Hop aboard the mini-train for a mile-long scenic ride through Gage Park, a beautiful 160 acres in the heart of Topeka. As the train chugs along the track, you’ll see flower gardens, playgrounds and families having fun. Step onto a 1908 vintage carousel for a ride on colorful hand-carved horses.

Blaisdell Family Aquatic Center Gage Park, 785.251.2600

Make a big splash this summer with four water slides, three diving boards and fun floatable play structures at Blaisdell Family Aquatic Center in Gage Park. A beach-like pool entry with interactive water toys for younger swimmers gives moms and tots the perfect play space.

Kansas Children’s Discovery Center 4400 SW 10th Ave., 785.783.8300

It’s hours of hands-on entertainment at the Kansas Children’s Discovery Center. Inside you can find science, careers, art and a real tools workshop. Outside, we have bikes, rock climbing, challenge courses and a tree house. It’s all serious fun!

Topeka Zoo 635 SW Gage Blvd., 785.368.9180

Your family will love the Topeka Zoo! Home to nearly 300 animals from all over the world, it offers great and easy views of your favorite creatures, including elephants, hippos, apes, lions, giraffes and black bears. During your visit, enjoy unique animal experiences that vary throughout the year.

Overland Station 701 N. Kansas Ave., 785.232.5533

Play with Thomas the Train, design your own FlowGraphix image and dress up and play in the Little Red Caboose.

Experience the wonder of being at eye level with the freight trains passing by the station. The museum and All Veterans Memorial are a must-see for train fans of all ages!

Kansas Museum of History 6425 SW 6th Ave., 785.272.8681

Discover folks from Kansas’ past through award-winning exhibits. See a full-sized Cheyenne tipi and a covered wagon. Climb aboard an 1880s train and pull up a chair in a 1950s diner. Surrounding the museum is a 2.5-mile nature trail where you can view native Kansas plants and spot wildlife.

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HEALTHYKIDS

healthy homemade M

For healthy, homemade snack ideas, visit KCParent.com.

y children are great eaters.

They like to eat every two hours and wake up ready for their first meal.

They also eat a variety of foods and are willing to try most things—on most days anyway. I know this is not the case in all households, and I realize how lucky I am.

The problem is not them, it’s me. I am not always the best at planning ahead and too often reach for prepackaged snacks or lunches. Even when I think I am picking healthy options, those foods are filled with far more added sugar and sodium than I would like and are also expensive.

My healthy living goal this month is a little simpler. Instead of cutting certain items from my family’s diet, I am letting them eat their “normal” diet. But instead of buying prepackaged items, I am making those meals myself. Here are my kids’ favorite everyday snacks and meals that are so easy to make I’ll never buy again!

Peanut butter and jelly sandwich.

We eat this for lunch multiple days every week. What is not to like? It’s easy, and the kids gobble it up. It doesn’t take long to make a sandwich, but as I mentioned, I don’t always plan ahead. Plus, the Uncrustable sandwiches found in the freezer section of the grocery store are a little too convenient for those mornings when I need to make lunch for preschool or we’re headed out to Deanna Rose for the morning, and I know it’s going to flow into lunchtime. They start out frozen and keep the rest of the food cool until lunchtime.

These pre-made sandwiches have a lot of

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added sugar and are not cheap. This time, I bought all the ingredients and a circle cookie cutter and made my own. You can seal the ends with your fingertips, wrap individually and freeze.

Oatmeal. The individual, preflavored oatmeal packs have a lot of flavor but also a lot of added, unwanted ingredients. It is cheaper and adds no time to buy the plain oatmeal, steel cut oats or breakfast quinoa and add your own flavors. Our family favorites are fresh berries or bananas, sliced almonds and honey to sweeten.

Pancakes. Making homemade pancakes multiple mornings a week is not an option, so instead of buying the pre-made mini-pancakes, I made my own. There are many recipes out there, some plain and some with fruit added. It didn’t take me long, and I have a freezer stash from which to pull on certain mornings. I also found a way to make pancakes in a muffin tin from our favorite website, Pinterest.

Allowing your kids, and yourselves, to eat healthy doesn’t have to be a sacrifice. Making small changes that don’t cost extra or take much time is easy to do!

And those small changes can make a big difference.

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

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

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am hopeful we women are attentive to our health during most months; however, May 11-17 is National Women’s Health Week. Let’s use this observation as motivation to continue our lifelong quest for health. And as we move through each age and stage of life, getting the screenings we need is our best first step.

Screening tests are designed to look for diseases before you have symptoms.

Most screening tests are done at your doctor’s visits, but some may require special equipment, so you might need to go to a different office.

Breast cancer, cervical cancer: Ask your doctor whether a mammogram is right for you based on your age and family history. Cervical cancer screenings are done by a Pap smear, recommended for ages 21-65, every one to three years.

Colorectal cancer: Screening begins at age 50, or maybe earlier if you have

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a family history with the disease.

Depression: Talk to your doctor about being screened, especially if you have felt down, sad or hopeless for longer than two weeks.

Diabetes: Get screened for diabetes if your blood pressure is higher than 135/80, you have a family history or if you experience a noticeable increase in thirst and urination.

High blood pressure: Beginning at age 18, check your blood pressure every two years.

High cholesterol: Beginning at age 20, check your cholesterol regularly, especially if you are obese, use tobacco, have diabetes or a family history of heart disease.

Osteoporosis: Screening test should be done around age 65.

Overweight/obesity: The best screening test is to monitor your BMI (Body Mass Index). Calculations for BMI can be found throughout the web. A BMI between 18.5 and 25 indicates normal weight.

Steps to good health: The best way to stay healthy as a woman is to participate in a healthy lifestyle. Be physically active and try to get in 10,000 steps per day.

Make healthy food choices by including plant-based foods as the majority of your diet. Make three quarters of your plate fruits, vegetables, grains and/or beans. The remaining portion can be meat or protein.

Get to a healthy weight and stay there. Be tobacco free.

Melanie Yunger is a woman trying to stay healthy at her age!

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

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Camp Shakespeare Camp Shakespeare is a unique summer arts experience that your kids will never forget!

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their own version of a Shakespearean classic.

Drama, visual art, dance, and stage combat all come together in this delightful camp, taught by professional teaching artists in a neighborhood near you! Available for ages 5 -18. Camp dates vary per location. One, two and three week camps available, June 9-August 1. Costs between $125 - $415. Locations: Brookside, Overland Park, Lee’s Summit, Leawood, Kansas City, Kansas. See display ad on pg. 40.

KC Parent’s

www.KCShakes.org

Camp Guide

Camp Special Beginnings Make this a summer to remember at Camp SB.

Accelerated Schools

4 to 8 grade can attend the Academics & Arts

Develop lifelong friendships in groups lead by

Accelerated Schools of Overland Park offers

Summer Camp, focusing on individualized

our dedicated and trained staff. Your child will

two summer programs from June 2 through

academic tutoring as well as creative expres-

enjoy being a part of our high quality program

August 8. High School students can earn credit

sion. Call 913.341.6666 for further information.

in a positive, Christian environment. Off-site

for courses such as math, science, English,

See display ad on pg. 39.

fieldtrips include weekly swimming as well

Spanish and social studies. Students entering

www.AcceleratedAchoolsOP.org

as other such as mini golf, KC Zoo, Legoland,

SUMMER ARTCLASSES FOR AGES 3 TO ADULT

ENROLL TODAY

nelson-atkins.org | 816.751.1ART

CA MP

ART

N O I T C A IN

45th & Oak, Kansas City, Missouri kcparent.com

NelsonAtkins_KCParent_May2014_FIN.indd may 2014 32

1

4/7/14 11:49 AM

and Pump It Up. On-site daily activities such as community service, creative arts, sports, and teambuilding. Available to children who have completed Kindergarten through 5th grade.

M-F 6 a.m to 6 p.m. Full time/Part time/Temporary schedules. 913.634.7060. See display ad on pg. 38 for free registration (new families only).

Ceramic Cafe 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. Fun themes change every camp session, so kids can sign up for their favorite, or enroll more than once. All sessions 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 throughout the summer. See display ad on pg 33.

Visit www.CeramicCafeKC.com for add’l info and registration form.

summer is a great time to create!

Now enrolling Summer Camp Ages 5 to 7 8 and up

A great place to create!

Pottery painting Glass fusing Birthday parties “Family day” every Sunday Monthly “kids and clay” series 9425 Mission Rd • 913-383-0222

www.ceramiccafekc.com kcparent.com may 2014

33

CAMPGUIDE Christian Youth Theater Act, Sing, and Dance this summer with Christian Youth Theater! Camps: “Pirates and Princesses” (ages 4-5), “Follow the Yellow Brick Road” (ages 5-12), “Epic Disney: The Heroes, Heroines & Villains” (ages 5-12), Xtreme Camps include “Star Trekkies” (ages 10-15), “Batman vs. Superman” (ages 10-15), “Star Warz” (ages 10-15), and “Dr. Who” (ages 10-15) “Camp Willy” Shakespeare (ages 12-18), Middle School Overnight “Unusually Green (ages 12-14), and High School Overnight “Crazy for You” (ages 14-19) with 3 full productions on July 25-27 at the Bell Center, MNU. See display ad on pg. 35. 913.681.3318. www.CYTKC.org

The Coterie Theatre School The Coterie offers camps for kids entering grades K -12 at five sites: Liberty (Liberty CC), Lee’s Summit (MCC Longview), Overland Park (Miller-Marley), The Plaza (Pembroke Hill), and Parkville (Park University). Half-day and fullday camps include creative drama, acting and

audition skills. Performance camps include

ages 2-8, camps combine cherished childhood

Honk Jr., The Hobbit and 10 Ways to Survive the

literature, with dance, music, props and

Zombie Apocalypse. Visit

beautiful costumes each week. Children will

www.CoterieTheatre.org. See display ad on

create a take-home prop in our prop workshop.

pg. 43.

Watch your little ballerina blossom when she becomes Cinderella and other favorite prin-

Culture House

cesses this summer! Camps and classes are of-

Spend your summer at The Culture House! Our

fered Mon.- Sat. in the morning and afternoon,

2014 summer programs include dance, theater,

June-Aug. 913.671.7944. See display ad on pg.

music & art ... all taught by professionally

41. www.AFairytaleBallet.com

trained adults. “Hairspray” (ages 12-19), “Disney’s Little Mermaid” (ages 7-12), Art Camps,

Faulkner’s Pony Camp

Best of Broadway, Peter Pan Musical/Combat,

Want your kids to learn what it’s like to take

Beautiful Ballerinas, Hip Hop, Minion Mania,

care of a pony? Have them join us for pony

Music of the Muppets, Let’s Make a Movie, &

camp to find out. Faulkner’s Pony Camp is a

much more. PLUS our large summer produc-

great way for kids to get close to the Faulkner’s

tion of “Big River” (ages 6-adult) at Yardley Hall!

herd with a wrangler at their side. Kids will

Openings limited, call today. See insert for

learn important equine skills and how to

more information. (14808 W 117th St, Olathe)

groom, feed and ride ponies during this fun

913.393.3141. Enroll: www.CultureHouse.com.

week at the ranch. 816.761.1234. See display ad

See display ad on pg. 37.

on pg. 39. www.FaulknersRanch.com/pony-camp.php

Fairytale Ballet Experience the enchanting world of A

i9

Fairytale Ballet this summer! Exclusively for

Youth sports the way they are meant to be

Get creative at the Nerman Museum!

Classes (ages 5-11) combine engaging, interactive tours with unique studio projects.

Tuesdays-Fridays, June 10-July 25 10 a.m. - noon or 2-4 p.m.

Pre-registration is required.

913-469-2323 • www.jccc.edu/youth

Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art Johnson County Community College

34

kcparent.com may 2014

S U M M E R C A M PS

2 0 1 4

OVERNIGHT

Camps offered all across the metro, including Kansas City, Leawood, Lee’s Summit, Lenexa, Overland Park & Parkville!

KC Parent 2013 Winner: Favorite Drama Studio A Midsummer Night's Dre

am

Half & Full Day Camps - Ages 4-18 | Xtreme & Overnight Camps - Ages 10-19 Get Details & Sign Up at www.cytkc.org

REACH FOR THE STARS WITH CYT CAMPS!

kcparent.com may 2014

35

Visit KCParent.com for the NEW Geo-based, searchable Camp Guide with maps, descriptions, photos, videos and more — your complete one-stop shop for camps!

CAMPGUIDE played! At i9 summer camp we offer flag football, basketball and soccer leagues along with cheerleading for kids ages 2 to 14. In addition to receiving tons of instruction and gameplay, campers are also taught daily lessons on sportsmanship and how it relates to both sports and life. We provide an incomparable experience that goes far beyond the game. Parents can expect convenience and unsurpassed organization and communication. For details visit www.i9sports.com or call 913.904.0810. Get $10 off any camp with code KC Parent Magazine.

See display ad on pg. 40.

Johnson County Park & Recreation District From Outdoor Discovery to Just for Fun, we offer over 55 professionally programmed and supervised camps conveniently located through-

out Johnson County. Specializing in healthy and

tion at www.KCWatersports.com/day-camps or

active options for kids of all ages, our summer

call 913.783.4300. See display ad on pg. 42.

fun choices include preschool enrichment, arts and crafts, sports training, computers, nature

Kansas Cosmosphere

and science, leadership development, and

Camp experiences like nowhere else on Earth.

music, theatre and dance. The choices include

Camp KAOS takes hands-on learning experi-

indoor and outdoor programs, and full and par-

ences to new heights using authentic NASA

tial day schedules. For details call 913.831.3359

astronaut training methods. Campers develop

or visit www.JCPRD.com/activities/camps.cfm.

confidence, teamwork and leadership skills

See display ad on pg. 39.

- connecting the dots between theory and application - while they construct and launch

KC Watersports

rockets, engineer robots, design space mis-

Cool off with a day filled with fun on the water!

sions and more! Camp graduates are motivated

KC Watersports offers a Watersports Day Camp

learners, striving for success in all their en-

for all ability levels. Whether you have never

deavors. Are you ready? Take command. Enroll

tried wakeboarding, waterskiing or wake-

now. See display ad on pg. 33. www.Cosmo.org

skating before or if you ride every weekend we have a camp for you. Camps are offered from

Kanakuk Kamps

8:30 am – 3:00 pm, Monday – Friday and age 7+

Since 1926, Kanakuk has provided an inten-

are welcome to join us. Find out more informa-

continued on pg. 40

Exhibition Open 7 Days a Week

HIS TOMB HIS TREASURES

THE BREATHTAKING RECREATION

North American Premier: It has traveled to the most significant cultural capitals across Europe, and now, The Discovery of King Tut premiers in North America only at Union Station.

Be one of the first to experience it!

Free Audio Tour With Every Ticket!

(Adult and Child Versions Available) Presented by

UnionStation.org/Tut 36

kcparent.com may 2014

JOIN US THIS MAY AS...

We Dig Science!

Create. Explore. Experiment.

ScienceCity.com

kcparent.com may 2014

37

CAMPGUIDE

prepping for overnight camp Some children have difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep at home, but this doesn’t mean that they have to skip overnight camp this summer.

S

ummertime is just around the corner, and that means that it’s almost time for summer camps to begin.

A former camp counselor, three local moms and a doctor from Children’s Mercy share their insights on how to make overnight summer camp a positive and stress-free experience for children and parents.

1. Schedule practice sleepovers.

Before signing a child up for an overnight camp, make sure that he’s ready to spend the night away from home. “You need to have a sense that your child is

Oakhill Summer Days

capable of going to sleep at another household,” says Dr. Rochelle Harris, psychologist at Children’s Mercy. “Start with a comfortable and familiar place like the home of a close neighbor, friend or family member.” A practice sleepover is a great way to see whether your child is ready for an overnight camp.

2. Don’t over-prepare.

Discussing the “what ifs” and possible problems that could arise is not the best way to prepare a child for camp.

“The biggest mistake that parents make is over-rehearsing,” says Dr. Harris. “Try to be fairly neutral and don’t share all your worries with your child, because that inadvertently communicates to the child that there is a reason that they need to be worried.”

Local mom Patti Ritchie says that she didn’t have any preconceived ideas about overnight camps. “I heard it was a great experience, and I didn’t really have any worries that I could pass on to them subconsciously,” she says. “If a parent has worries, they are going to pass those on to their kids, whether they mean to or not.”

This doesn’t mean that there shouldn’t be any communication at all before the first day of camp. Dr. Harris says to keep it positive and matter-of-fact.

“Reminiscing about your own experiences at summer camp can help prepare your child for what to expect, but leave out the part about how much you missed mom and dad,” says Dr. Harris.

Camp Special Beginnings NOW ENROLLING FOR SUMMER

June 2 - August 1, 2014

Kids’ Club Full Day Fun May 27-30 and August 4 to Start of School

Oakhill Summer Days are offering over 15 new fun and educational camps in everything from academics to cooking, sports and more for your Toddler (age 2) - Eighth Grade student in 2014!

NEW TO OAKHILL SUMMER DAYS? Call 816.436.6228 for more information or visit oakhilldayschool.org/summer!

7019 North Cherry Street, Gladstone, MO 64118

38

kcparent.com may 2014

Friends • Swimming Quality Christian early care & education since 1987!

• Laughter • Sports • Art • Parties • Smiles Mention this ad • Field Trips • Fun • and receive FREE registration!

Community Service New families only • Great Memories!

Where your search starts and ends

Convenient Lenexa location 1st-6th grade Full/part-time 10216 Pflumm Rd.

913.634.7060 www.specialbeginningsonline.com

Search by location through Google Maps plus see photos, videos and more.

KCParent.com/Guides

3. Teach relaxation strategies.

Dr. Harris says that some children have difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep at home, but this doesn’t mean that they have to skip overnight camp this summer.

“Teach them relaxation techniques or measured breathing,” says Dr. Harris.

“Search online for mindfulness for children, and they can learn muscle relaxation, breathing techniques and visualization strategies before they head to camp.

If they have trouble sleeping, they’ll know how to handle it.”

the parents. “I really think that, if possible, a child should go to camp at least once,” says Ritchie. “It’s such a great experience to have.”

4. Send a letter (or two).

Everyone loves to get mail, and children are no exception. Lis Kendrick, local mom, sends her child a letter before he leaves for camp to ensure that he’ll have something to open on the first day.

Lyn McMahon, former camp counselor and local mom, writes numbers on the envelopes to signify which day the letter is for so that her child receives something every day. McMahon also slips notes in places where her child will find them, like her Bible, to surprise her and let her know that the family is thinking about her.

Dr. Harris suggests sending a picture of a pet in the letter. “It may prompt a bit of homesickness, but that’s okay, because homesickness is natural and inevitable.

Soon they’ll be distracted with an activity, and they won’t think about it,” says Dr. Harris.

The main goal is for the child to have the best experience possible at summer camp so that he comes home barely being able to wait until next year.

Following these tips will help improve the camp experience for both the child and

Local moms share recommendations about what to pack for summer camp.

Alyssa Klimek has a master’s degree in Spanish and is a local freelance writer and ESL instructor at Johnson County Community College. She currently lives in Kansas City.

Packing tips

• “Take a 3-in-1 body wash, shampoo and conditioner, says Laura Alvarado, local mom. “It makes it easy when they have only a short amount of time in the shower.”

• “Bringing a mesh laundry bag keeps dirty and clean clothes separated and allows the dirty clothes to breathe while at camp,” says McMahon.

• McMahon and Alvarado agree that bringing something from home like a blanket or stuffed animal can provide comfort to a child when away from home.

• “Pack extra clothes and shoes because you never know what the weather is going to be like,” says McMahon, “and it’s better to pack more rather than less.”

If your child is facing

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

We specialize of of reach.

We provide summer programs that in working with students offer a chance whostudents don’t always “fit to the advance box.”academically.

Summer programs June 2 parents For more thanare 30offered years,from concerned tohave August 8. High School Summer School turned to the Accelerated Schools for offers accreditedlearning courses for studentsthat in help individualized programs grades 9 -12 in many subjects including students of all academic levels with unique math, English, Spanish, history and science. educational needs overcome challenges Earn 1/2 credit in three weeks. 9 am - 1 pm, and excelMiddle academically.

M-F. School Academics & Arts Camp • Full Day School - Grades 4 - 124-8 grade. This camp for students entering instruction as well as • After Schoolincludes Tutoringindividualized - Grades 1-12 • Accredited art and computer graphics.

• Low Student-Teacher ratio

• Daily Report Cards • Transportation Available • Effective Reward System • Free Academic Testing The Accelerated Schools of Overland Park

10713 BarkleySchools St., Overland of Park,Overland KS The Accelerated Park Call or visit our website: 913-341-6666

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

kcparent.com may 2014

39

CAMPGUIDE tional partnership with families to provide fun experiences and spiritual training for their children. Kanakuk is a premier summer camp for boys and girls ages 7 – 18 years old located in Missouri. Kids have a blast with friends their age participating in over 70 activities, sports and amazing themed parties. Directed by president Joe White, the full-time and summer staff are committed to developing dynamic Christian leaders. Included in tuition, each Kamper receives an age-specific devotional book for use at Kamp and at home through the year. See display ad on pg. 3. www.Kanakuk.com

KampOut-Kanakuk KampOut is a high energy, non-stop excitement, traveling day camp experience from Kanakuk! Every KampOut! Kamper will see and hear that God is a loving Father and wonderful Creator who loves them and desires for us to love others. Boys and girls from 6 to 12 years old will learn to pick good friends and be a good friend because Jesus loved us first. See

The KCYA Community School of the Arts

Misty River Equestrian Center

The KCYA Community School of the Arts (CSA)

another summer of fun! There are three camps

offers children performing and visual arts

you can attend for ages 4- 14. Each child will

classes, camps and private instruction on the

learn grooming, saddling, horse safety, horse

campus of St. Teresa’s Academy. Our fabulous

bathing, horse care and how to ride. Other

summer camps and classes begin on June 9th.

activities include games on horseback, crafts

Summer Camps are held at our convenient

and much more! Camps start June 6th through

Brookside location. Scholarships are available.

July 2nd. Save the dates for a time of inspiration

816.531.4022. See display ad on pg. 32.

and fun with the horses. See display ad on pg.

www.KCYA.org

34. www.MistyRiverReq.com

MCCC Longview

Music House

The College For Kids program provides half-

Music House Summer Camps are all about

day and full-day classes from June 9- Aug. 1

growth and exploration. Join a band, perform

(with no class the week of July 4). These classes

on stage, make a video, try a new instrument,

are designed to offer fun learning opportuni-

write a song and much more. Regardless of

ties to children between the ages of four and

what you choose, you’re sure to learn to think

15. This summer’s offerings include Horseman-

independently while working cooperatively.

ship Basics, Super Summer Science Lab, Gears

Camps are crafted for ages 6-8, 9-12, and 13-17,

and Gadgets, Creative and Digital Photography

vocalists and instrumentalists, absolute begin-

for Kids and much more! 816.604.2030. See

ners through seasoned pros. Check out the Mu-

display ad on pg. 43.

sic House website to read about our amazing

www.MCCKC.edu/lvcommed

faculty. See display ad on pg. 35. 913.562.4112

Misty River Equestrian Center is gearing up for

www.MusicHouseSchool.com

display ad on pg. 41. www.ComeToKamp.com

HEART OF AMERICA SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL

shakespeare

SuMMER

c a m p s

A Few Spring Program Openings Available * Programs Begin April 5th * Boys and Girls Ages 2-14 Summer Leagues and Camps Open for Registration Too! * Sports include Flag Football, Soccer, T-Ball, Coach Pitch Baseball, Basketball, Cheerleading & Instructional Lacrosse * Focus is on instruction, fun & good sportsmanship * Only one day a week commitment with practices & games on the same day. * Register by April 23 to save $20 and pay only $99 for Summer Leagues * Multi Sport, All Day Summer Camps start June 23

Ages 5-12

Camper Receives: • Free Soccer Ball • Free Camp T-Shirt • Surprise Giveaway

Cam

p

$89Fee

Summer Camps June 9th-July 18th • Mon-Fri, 8am-11am Camp Director-Goran Hunjak 19 years Pro and US National Team.

913-284-7601 or Register online:

www.victoryinsoccer.org

For more information or to register visit www.i9sports.com or CALL 913-904-0810

40

kcparent.com may 2014

STAGE combat

ACTI NG

DANCE & sC Rt aA gF Te

june & july

Ages: 5 - 18

Camp Shakespeare is a fun and unique summer arts experience your kids will never forget! Taught by professional actors in a neighborhood near you. www.K CSHAKES.or g

816-531-7728

KCParent_Ad-2014_CampShakespeare.indd 1

2/7/14 8:57 AM

The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art

Fairytale Ballet Academy Ballet

“Camp out” this summer at the Nelson-Atkins!

Ages 6-12 can participate in art classes, make

camp sessions, July 14-August 8; 9 a.m. - 4 p.m., with an extended day option. Visits from “mystery guests” (museum staff members who work with art every day) will occur throughout the week to give students “inside access” to the museum. Four different themes: Sculpture A to Z, Drawn from the Imagination, Act it Out, and Cartooning + Animation. See www.Nelson-Atkins.org for full details. See display ad on pg. 32.

Nerman 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

5-12yrs

Prairie Village 913-671-7944

new friends and have many fun-filled activities led by camp counselors in full day, week-long

18 months-6yrs

SUMMER CAMPS FAIRYTALE BALLET CAMPS 2-6yrs Costumes, props, crafts & games!

FROZEN

TANGLED CINDERELLA TINKER BELL ARIEL & more!

ACADEMY WORKSHOPS 6-12yrs Choreography, Costume Design, Stage Make-up & a mini-show!

Swan Lake, Coppelia & Sleeping Beauty

Part ies too!

SUMMER CLASSES

Fairytale Ballet & Academy

AFairytaleBallet.com

PRINCESS & DANCEWEAR STORE!

IN-HOUSE store! HUGE SELECTION of Specialty Princess Gowns, Dancewear & Gifts for Baby-12 years.

Now taking pre-orders for Elsa & Anna gowns!!

art in the studio classroom. Classes are offered Tues.-Fri., June 10-July 25, with individual sessions from 10AM-noon or 2PM-4PM. A special Portfolio Week is offered June 10-13 and 3-D Art Week runs June 17-20. Register at www.JCCC.edu/youth or call 913.469.2323. See display ad on pg. 34.

Oakhill Oakhill Day School is ready for another exciting summer of fun for children ages toddler (Age 2) through Eighth grade. At Oakhill Summer Days you can explore everything from academics, art, cooking, music, science, sports and much more. Summer fun begins June 2 and is offered through August 1. Morning and evening extended care is available to add flexibility to your busy summer schedule.

Start planning your Summer Days online today! See display ad on pg. 38. www.OakhillDaySchool.org/summer

Paint, Glaze & Fire Ceramics & Coffee House

Leawood Presbyterian Church

June 16-20

Colonial Presbyterian Church

June 23-27

Lenexa Baptist Church

July 21-25

Camp ARTRAGEOUS! Paint Glaze & Fire Ceramics & Coffee House is offering summer camp for its 16th season! Your child will learn kcparent.com may 2014

41

CAMPGUIDE new techniques and have fun creating art in our mixed media (ceramics, clay, canvas & glass fusion). Class size is limited - sign up early!

Check it out online and find more information as well as a registration form at www.PaintGlazeAndFire.net (Available early March). For more information on these and many other fun and creative programs, visit the website. See display ad on pg. 42.

913.661.CLAY (2529).

at Pembroke Hill program! See display ad on

Vineyard Church of Overland Park

pg. 42. www.PembrokeHill.org

Looking for a low-cost, fun-packed, summer

Science City

day camp for your kids? At Vcamp - Weird Animals, kids will learn about some of God’s

Science City Summer Camp 2014 provides a

most creative creations! Vcamp is for kids who

fun, hands-on environment to explore exciting

have completed kindergarten to fourth grade

STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art

and will run from 10:00 am to 4:30 pm daily.

and math) topics. Campers ages 6-12 engage

$40 for the week includes lunch and snacks;

in life science, physical science, art and tech-

wrap around care is available at no additional

nology each week! Space is limited! Camps

charge. Register at www.VineyardOP.org by

run June 9-Aug. 8, Monday through Friday,

June 30. See diplay ad on pg. 33.

9:00-4:00. Early and late care available. $180/

Pembroke Hill Summer at Pembroke Hill is dedicated to providing a unique learning experience in a meaningful and inspiring environment.

Designed to accommodate your family’s busy schedule, our program offers flexibility by allowing you to enroll in any of the weeks you choose. Open to the community, students ages 2-18 are able to participate in our comprehensive camp. Please join us this summer as we celebrate the 80th anniversary of the Summer

week for Union Station Members, $200/non-

Victory Soccer Camp

members. For more information email

Victory Soccer Camp is directed by former

Summer@UnionStation.org or call

US National Team member, Goran Hunjak.

816.460.2226. See display ad on pg. 36.

He played professional soccer for 19 years

Tiger Rock Martial Arts

and coached professionally. Victory Soccer Camp provides professional quality soccer

Train all summer at Tiger Rock’s Taekwondo

instruction in a fun and exciting environment,

Summer Camp. For only $169, you can spend

helping youth improve skill, gain confidence,

your summer training at our studio. Fee in-

and develop a positive self image. Our camp is

cludes training jersey. Hurry! You must register

designed with various levels of athletic ability

for this offer by June 1. Classes fill up every

including beginner level. For more information

summer, so register today! 913.829.8818. See

or register go to www.VictoryInSoccer.org or

display ad on pg. 19. www.KCTigerRock.com

call 913.284.7601. See display ad on pg. 40.

Register Today!

Space Limited!

AGES 6-12

GET READY FOR SUMMER CAMP! Attend 1, Attend ALL!

Day Camps - Lessons - Surf Club Birthday Parties - Private Rentals New & Used Boats - 2 Cable Systems Fun Lake - Boat House Pizzeria

Mix & match class sessions to fit YOUR schedule!!

paintglazeandfire.net 127th & Metcalf • Overland Park, KS

913-661-CLAY 42

kcparent.com may 2014

www.kcwatersports.com

BLOGBITS

ACTING CLASSES ALL OVER KANSAS CITY!

smile pretty (for free!)

I

had braces as a child. Twice. Not because that was the scheduled treatment, but because I lost my retainer so many times (five) that my dad finally said, “No more!” Wouldn’t you know, my teeth got crooked again! And I needed braces again. Hey, Dad, it probably would have been cheaper to just buy me another retainer, right? For the record, to this day I still wear my retainer. I am not having braces a third time!

As a parent, I’ve had one child (so far) in braces. So I feel pretty well versed when it comes to mouth treatment. And I’m here to tell you, those suckers are expensive! I could take a really nice trip for the amount of money we put into Tori’s mouth. If your child has had braces or extensive dental care, I’m not telling you anything you don’t know. So make sure you are sitting down when you read this next sentence: KC Parent is giving away a set of braces. You read that correctly.

One free set of braces from Bulliegh Orthodontics. Now you can get your child’s teeth (or even yours—my dad had braces at 40) straightened and still take that vacation. It’s a win-win!

There are several ways to enter and several ways to boost your chances of winning. See details on pg. 55 and enter today! And remember, the more you share, the more chances you have to win.

Margaret Sarver flashes her straighttoothed smile in Lenexa. She and other parents blog at KCParent.com. Join the conversation today!

SUMMER SESSIONS in Overland Park, Northland, Lee's Summit, Plaza & Liberty

NOW ENROLLING Registration, class descriptions & locations online at thecoterie.org or call 816-474-4241

SUMMER CLASSES June 9 - August 8

Week-long half-day and full-day drama classes for students entering grades 3-12; week-long half-day classes for students entering grades K-2.

Summer classes are for incoming grades: K-2nd Pinkarrific!, Monkey Business, We Built This City 3rd-5th Jedi Knights Unite, Make a Scene 6th-8th Swashbucklin’ Skirmishes: Stage Combat Class 5th-7th and 8th-12th Audition Lab, Improv, Musical Theatre 8th-12th Scenes from a Dystopian Future PERFORMANCE CAMPS: Incoming Grades 5-8 Honk, Jr. Incoming Grades 5-10 The Hobbit Incoming Grades 9-12 10 Ways to Survive the Zombie Apocalypse

College for Kids Summer 2014

816.604.2030

mcckc.edu/lvcommed kcparent.com may 2014

43

celebrating

mother’s day

in kansas city with mom’s favorites

If Mom’s favorite thing is

shopping...

Every weekend the West Bottoms (WestBottomsAntiques.com/) is hopping as shoppers hunt for treasures at local antique shops and boutiques. The shopping district, former home to the Kansas City stockyards, has become the center of reclaimed, repurposed and vintage goods ideal for the decorator, collector or the curious. Local food trucks add to the shopping fun, dishing up some of the tastiest cuisine you’ve ever enjoyed on a sidewalk.

If Mom’s favorite thing is

art...

If Mom’s favorite thing is

dance…

This month Kansas City is in for a treat! The Kanas City Ballet (KCBallet.org) brings Cinderella to the stage at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts. This performance promises to be a truly magnificent staging of the fairy tale. Beloved elements, from the fairy godmother to the pumpkin’s turning into a carriage, are all part of the magic, and the Kansas City Ballet promises to surprise with its own special twist on the beloved tale.

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The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art (4525 Oak, Kansas City, MO. Admission: FREE. Parking: $5 in the museum garage.) is one of Kansas City’s crown jewels. Treat Mom to a Mother’s Day brunch in the Rozzelle Court Restaurant, then spend a day enjoying fine art. Exploring exhibits from around the world, you will discover something new with each visit. For added fun, use our Nelson-Atkins scavenger hunt (on KCParent.com) and take photos of your finds! For little ones, we offer a pre-reader scavenger hunt on KCParent.com, as well.

If your mom loves the outdoors, head to KCParent.com for a list of scenic waterfalls to visit in and around KC.

If Mom’s favorite thing is

cooking...

Sign up for a class at the Culinary Center of Kansas City (7920 Santa Fe Dr., Overland Park, KS, 913.341.4455, KCCulinary.com), where they offer more than 450 contemporary classes and demonstrations in the culinary arts for all ages, interests and skill levels. Learn ethnic cooking, baking, basic kitchen skills, gourmet recipes and culinary classics.

If Mom’s favorite thing is a

good movie...

Treat her to a great film at Standees: The Entertaining Eatery (3935 W. 69th Ter., Prairie Village, KS, StandeesEatery.com).

Standees is home to a beautiful restaurant for delicious pre- or post-movie dining (you don’t have to catch a film to dine at the restaurant, but it’s certainly more fun if you do), and three immersive, state-ofthe-art movie theaters. The atmosphere is beautiful, the entertainment is high quality and the prices are affordable, making it one of the best “bang-for-your-buck” theaters in town!

The restaurant and theater share one entrance. If you choose to dine at the restaurant prior to your film, reservations are recommended, though not required.

The centerpiece of the restaurant is a bar surrounded by translucent screens projecting shows. The menu features high quality chef-inspired food. They also have a café-style concession stand offering traditional movie snacks, as well as drinks from the bar and select appetizers and desserts from the restaurant.

If Mom’s favorite thing is

If Mom’s favorite thing is

gardening…

Powell Gardens (1609 NW U.S. Hwy. 50, Kingsville, MO, 816.697.2600, PowellGardens.org) is one of our favorite destinations, and it is especially breathtaking in May as the flowers start to bloom. With the12-acre Heartland Harvest Garden—the largest edible landscape in the United States—a gorgeous rock and waterfall garden, Iris Hill with more than 500 varieties of iris and numerous wooded paths, Powell Gardens is truly one of the most scenic attractions in the area.

On Mother’s Day, they serve brunch in Café Thyme or invite visitors to bring a picnic to enjoy on the lawn. From 1:00 to 3:00, Brookside Brass, a local brass quintet, will perform everything from pop to jazz standards on the lawn (tip: bring a lawn chair or blanket for the concert).

laughter...

Head to a show at Comedy City at Westport Flea Market (817 Westport Rd., Kansas City, MO, 816.842.2744, ComedyCity.cc). On Fridays and Saturdays (celebrate Mother’s Day weekend) at the Westport Flea Market, you’ll find Kansas City’s own improv comedy troupe, Comedy City.

At these live all-ages-welcome improv shows, two teams compete for your laughs, matching wits in a fun-filled contest as they think on their feet to create hysterical skits using inspiration and ideas directly from the audience—making each and every show original! The humor is clean, and foul language is against the rules during the all-ages shows. The audience is seated at tables, where they may order from the Westport Flea Market menu. Westport Flea Market, famous for delicious burgers (as replicated on their driving burgermobile), serves classic American fare for all ages, making this a fun-filled night out for the entire family!

Kristina Light loves spending time with her daughters on new adventures every Mother’s Day. kcparent.com may 2014

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LOCAL

MOM

PROFILES

May celebrates moms of all ages, stages and forms. Enjoy these light-hearted interviews with six KC moms and their children. It’s always fun to get a sneak peek into another mom’s world to know that you’re not alone, pick up new tips/tricks and appreciate the perspective from a child.

ALL ABOUT ANGIE An interview with Angie’s kids, Ella and Blake…

1. What is your favorite thing to do with your mom?

Ella: Sewing

Blake: Play with her 2. When I’m not home, my mom loves to _______?

Ella: Watch Fringe, Downton

Abbey, and clean the house.

Blake: Play with my sister.

3. What is something your mom always says to you?

Ella: Be strong and never give up.

Blake: I love you.

4. How do you know your mom loves you?

Ella: She gives me hugs and kisses

and says nice things to me and

always has time for me.

Blake: Because she says it.

5. Where is your mom’s favorite place to go?

Ella: Any place with us.

Blake: To work.

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Angie is mom to Ella, 9, and Blake, 6. She is a pharmaceutical rep and lives in Lee’s Summit, MO, with her high school sweetheart husband of 13 years, Chad.

Favorite indulgence: A massage or long walk (which I don’t get to do very often!)

Can’t-miss TV show: Downton Abbey Favorite family activity: Slumber parties in the family room together. Also, I love watching them play sports and have fun with their friends.

Favorite KC restaurant: Drunken Fish Sushi “ME” time activity: Spa pedicures Dream vacation: I love Disney cruises and I would love to go to Antarctica and see where my twin sister studied for her Ph.D. 5 things in your purse: Wallet, ChapStick, bouncy balls, gum, Band-Aids Best stress reliever: At night, hugging my kids and hearing about their day makes me feel so wonderful. Stress reliever on my own after having surgery is talking to myself about how blessed I am and praying.

3 words to describe motherhood: Pride, presence (I mean your children need your presence, not presents—spend time with your children), unconditional

ALL ABOUT KIMBERLY Kimberly is wife to Reggie and mother of two—US Airman Courtney (age 25) and Phoebe (age 13). She is also the Executive Director for Boys Hope Girls Hope of Kansas City, a nonprofit that provides a nurturing home and private college preparatory education to help academically capable boys in need reach their full potential.

Favorite indulgences: Lemon cake from Café Europa and Christopher Elbow Chocolates Can’t-miss TV show: I don’t watch much television…no time! I don’t have “can’t miss” shows, but I like HGTV all year and 25 Days of Christmas on ABC Family during the holiday season.

Favorite family activity: Going to church together.

Favorite KC restaurant: Paulo and Bill “ME” time activity: Organizing and labeling Dream vacation: Israel 5 things in your purse: Wallet, lipstick, mints, chocolate and business cards Best stress reliever: Quiet time in prayer 3 words to describe motherhood: Most important role

An interview with Margaret’s daughters, Tori and Ally…

1. What is your favorite thing to do with your mom?

Tori: Just talk to her.

Ally: Go outside and play

volleyball.

2. When I’m not home, my mom loves to _________?

Tori: Read (outside if it’s nice).

Ally: I’m not sure. I’m not home.

3. What is something your mom always says to you?

Tori: C’est la vie.

Ally: Life’s not fair.

4. How do you know your mom loves you?

Tori: We hang out all the time.

Ally: She gives me good-night

kisses.

5. Where is your mom’s favorite place to go?

Tori: Starbucks

Ally: St. Louis or Starbucks

An interview with Kimberly’s kids, Phoebe and Courtney…

1. What is your favorite thing to do with your mom?

Phoebe: Post pictures of our

new puppy with captions on

Instagram. We also make cup-

cakes and cookies together.

Courtney: Talk and laugh 2. When I’m not home, my mom loves to ______?

Phoebe: Relax

Courtney: Renovate 3. What is something your mom always says to you?

Phoebe: Live pure, work hard and

God will do the rest.

Courtney: I’m praying for you.

4. How do you know your mom loves you?

Phoebe: She does little things to

show me, and she tells me all the

time.

Courtney: She always has my best

interest at heart.

5. Where is your mom’s favorite place to go?

Phoebe: She likes to go and talk

to God.

Courtney: World Market or visiting

family

ALL ABOUT MARGARET Margaret is the editor of KC Parent magazine. She and Ty, her husband of 17 years, live in Lenexa with their two daughters, Tori, 12, and Ally, 9.

Favorite indulgence: An Oreo shake Can’t-miss TV show: People’s Court (It’s my little secret—I LOVE this show!)

Favorite family activity: Love our traditions (Super Bowl party each year, secret valentine, co-op camp each summer) Favorite KC restaurant: Fronteras “ME” time activity: Reading and word games Dream vacation: Hawaii!!!

5 things in your purse: Wallet, EpiPen, sunglasses, pens, gum Best stress reliever: A good margarita and a night out with my sisters 3 words to describe motherhood: Challenging, rewarding, a blessing kcparent.com may 2014

47

ALL ABOUT BRITTNEY An interview with Brittney’s daughter, Stella…

1. What is your favorite thing to do with your mom?

Stella: Go to the movies, get nails

done, go to the grocery store and

dance.

2. When I’m not home, my mom loves to __________?

Stella: Work and clean house.

Brittney is mom to Stella, 5, and a new bundle of joy set to arrive this June! She is in pharmaceutical sales and lives in Leawood with her husband, David.

Favorite indulgence: Cheesecake Factory cheesecake Can’t-miss TV show: I’m a sucker for The Real Housewives.

Favorite family activity: Summer in Colorado Favorite KC restaurant: Houston’s (chain), Port Fonda (local) “ME” time activity: Mani/pedi Dream vacation: Italy with my husband 5 things in your purse: Laura Mercier lip gloss, brush, gum, snacks for Stella, wipes Best stress reliever: Working out 3 words to describe motherhood: Rewarding, entertaining and unconditional

3. What is something your mom always says to you?

Stella: Be brave. Find out how

good you can be.

4. How do you know your mom loves you?

Stella: She says it all the time and

gives me hugs.

5. Where is your mom’s favorite place?

Stella: The mall

An interview with Suzanne’s kids, Katie, Eric, Philip and Gabe…

1. What is your favorite thing to do with your mom?

Katie: Shop; read and discuss

books.

Eric: Watch Dr. Who.

Philip: Just being with her.

Gabe: Playing the Wii with her;

eat candy.

2. When I’m not home, my mom loves to ________?

Katie: Sew or craft or read.

Eric: Enjoy the silence.

Philip: Knit.

Gabe: Enjoy the peace and craft.

3. What is something your mom always says to you?

Katie: If we can’t laugh at

ourselves, who can we laugh at?

Eric: Use the sense that God gave

you.

Philip: Do your best at school.

Gabe: Give Mommy a hug.

4. How do you know your mom loves you?

Katie: She’ll take me to a dance

competition even on her

birthday.

Eric: Homeschools us.

Philip: She supports our activities.

Gabe: She reads to me at night…

whatever book I want.

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ALL ABOUT SUZANNE Suzanne is mom to Katie, 15, Eric, 12, Philip, 10, and Gabe, 5. She is married to Clint, her husband of 23 years. They reside in Lenexa, where Suzanne homeschools her four children.

Favorite indulgence: A long soak in my tub, with a glass of wine.

Can’t-miss TV show: New and classic Dr. Who episodes on Netflix.

Favorite family activity: At home we like to play games; but we really enjoy going places on “family field trips.” Royals games are a favorite.

Favorite KC restaurant: I’ll have to go with Oklahoma Joe’s.

“ME” time activity: Knitting, I love to knit. Knitting with friends is even better.

Dream Vacation: I would like to go to Italy with Clint to see places important to our faith and some of the beautiful works of Western Civilization.

5 things in your purse: My new key-shaped pocket knife (a present from Eric), measuring tape, yarn, my rosary and at least one lipstick.

Best stress reliever: Laughter. I need humor in my life, even if it’s just my own.

3 words to describe motherhood: Learning, teaching, growing

ALL ABOUT KASEY An interview with Kasey’s kids, Cooper and Cameron…

1. What is your favorite thing to do with your mom?

Cooper: Going to eat ice cream.

Cameron: Going on roller

coasters and reading before bed.

2. When I’m not home, my mom loves to __________?

Cooper: Work.

Cameron: Eat chocolate.

Kasey works part time for the Association for Corporate Growth and is mom of Cooper, 9, and Cameron, 6. She resides in Overland Park with Lance, her husband of 13 years.

Favorite indulgence: Cookies and cream ice cream and Dove dark chocolate Can’t-miss TV show: Nashville Favorite family activity: Going to sporting events and weekends at the lake.

Favorite KC restaurant: Oklahoma Joe’s “ME” time activity: Dinner and movies with girlfriends Dream vacation: Any beach in the Caribbean 5 things in your purse: ChapStick, gum, receipts, cell phone and EpiPen Best stress reliever: Yoga 3 words to describe motherhood: Challenging, exhausting, happiness

Give the precious gift of TIME this Mother’s Day...

3 .What is something your mom always says to you?

Cooper: “Wake-up, sleepy head.”

Cameron: “Go to bed.”

4. How do you know your mom loves you?

Cooper: Helps me with my

homework.

Cameron: Because she says she

loves me and gives me hugs.

5. Where is your mom’s favorite place to go?

Cooper: Vacations

Cameron: Jose Pepper’s

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kcparent.com may 2014

49

MEDIAMIX

gifts for mom Authors Explore the Love Between Mother and Child.

By McGeath Freeman

A Gift for Mama

By Linda Ravin Lodding Illustrated by Alison Jay Best for: Ages 4-8

Oskar is a small boy on a hunt for the perfect gift for his mother’s birthday. The story is set in late 19th-century Vienna, where Oskar begins his hunt armed with one coin. He settles on a beautiful yellow rose, “the perfect gift.” As soon as Oskar begins heading home, an artist sees the rose and decides it must be in the portrait he is painting. The artist trades a wonderful horsehair paintbrush. In classic folktale style, the story continues with a conductor, a writer, an

empress and a little girl with a rose—all trading for “the perfect gift.” When Oskar gets home, he hands his mother the gift and gives her a big hug, which she thinks is the perfect gift.

Many children will relate to Oskar’s search for the perfect gift. And because Oskar always does a “good” thing, the story also teaches that doing good things begets good things. A decent moral and an enjoyable story.

What’s good: The folktale-style story is easy for children to follow and understand.

What’s bad: : A missed opportunity to include author’s notes about notable authors, composers and conductors of the era.

Where’s Mommy?

By Beverly Donofrio Illustrated by Barbara McClintock Best for: Ages 5-7

This follow-up to Mary and the Mouse, the Mouse and Mary follows Maria and Mouse Mouse. They are secret friends who believe they must keep their friendship secret form their families. When they both call for their mothers to tell them a bedtime story, their searches ensue.

Through side-by-side or top-and-bottom comparisons, we see their two worlds in enchanting details. The illustrations tell the tale with an abundance of character, pairing with the limited text to build tension and delight. Both Mouse Mouse’s

and Maria’s searches end in a wonderful spread that reveals that their mothers have a secret, too.

Comparing the parallel worlds of Mouse Mouse and Maria will draw children into the book and give them reason to explore each page in detail. This is a great book for a bedtime story or a picture walk for children not quite reading on their own.

What’s good: Intriguing illustrations in a side-by-side comparison.

What’s bad: The climactic scene seems a little kitschy.

Mama’s Day with Little Gray

By Aimee Reid Illustrated by Laura J. Bryant Best for: Ages 2-5

What is the perfect day? Maybe a day that is created by love—unconditional love. Every child likes undivided attention, and that is exactly what Little Gray gets from his mama as they spend the day swimming, rolling in mud and playing in the grass. Little Gray begins the day by asking about what if he grew big and his mama grew small. Little Gray tells Mama how, when he is big, he will reach the tastiest leaves high in the trees and share them with her. And when she

gets sleepy, he’ll cuddle her close and keep her safe. Everything they do adds up to one heck of a day that they both declare is exactly what they’d wish for if Little Gray grew up and Mama grew down.

The expressive watercolor illustrations and the peaceful text combine to make this a soothing bedtime story that young children will want to hear again and again.

What’s good: Soothing illustrations and text.

What’s bad: Follows a similar pattern to other books with a reassurance message.

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kcparent.com may 2014

CELEBRATE 25 YEARS OF JAZZOO. GET TICKETS TODAY. An anniversary this special calls for a return to our penguin-suit roots.

Literally. Join us in traditional black-tie attire to commemorate 25 years and the recent arrival of three new species of cold-weather penguins at the zoo.

You will enjoy cuisine from these restaurants, plus live music and more.

12 Baltimore/Hotel Phillips 75th Street Brewery 810 Zone Affordable Catering Argosy Casino & Spa BRGR Kitchen & Bar Barley’s Brewhaus Belfonte Ice Cream & Dairy Foods Co. Big Momma’s Bakery–Café Bizz and Weezy’s Confections Bobkat Dan Gourmet Products *Brancato’s Catering Chaz Restaurant at The Raphael Hotel Chuy’s Claridge Court Cosentino’s Catering Café’ Nordstrom Cooper’s Hawk Edible Arrangements Farm to Market Bread Company Frida’s Contemporary Mexican Cuisine

Fuzzy’s Taco Shop Garozzo’s Gates Bar-B-Q Gram & Dun Hiland Dairy Co. Hy-Vee Catering – Raytown Jess & Jim’s Steakhouse Kaldi’s Coffee / Latteland KC Krispy Kreme Doughnuts Lakeview Village Les Bourgeois Vineyards Lew’s Lon Lane’s Inspired Occasions Louisburg Cider Mill Magnolia’s Contemporary Southern Bistro MeMa’s Old-Fashioned Bakery Mestizo by Aaron Sanchez Murray’s Tables & Tap Noodles & Company Nick & Jakes

O’Dowd’s Little Dublin O’Neill’s Restaurant & Bar RA Sushi Rusty Horse Tavern Seasons 52 St James Winery Sheridan’s Frozen Custard Snow & Company Sunset Grill Sweet Tomatoes Restaurant Taco Republic T-Rex Café The Blue Moose Bar & Grill The Melting Pot The Roasterie Café The Well Bar – Grill & Rooftop The Zebra Room at the Aladdin Hotel Tortilla Ranch Mexican Grill Urban Table Westin/Sheraton Kansas City Hotels Waldo Pizza

PRESENTING SPONSOR

JUNE 6, 2014 | 816.595.1234 | WWW.JAZZOOKC.ORG kcparent.com may 2014

51

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

may CALENDAR

play Take the family to Sprint Family Fun Days on May 10 at 11:00 in the Power & Light District.

Celebrate your children’s favorite superheroes with games, arts, crafts, face painting and more. 816.842.1045

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

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kcparent.com may 2014

CELEBRATION AT THE STATION

shop

enjoy

Every Saturday, the Overland Park Farmers’ Market is open for business!

Shop for a wide variety of products from farm-fresh produce, local foods and unique specialty items. 913.895.6390

Enjoy a movie under the stars! On May 16, the city of Lenexa hosts its Movie in the Park at 8:30 at Electric Park. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy a showing of Mary Poppins.

913.477.7100

watch

celebrate

Don’t miss the inaugural NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Night Race on May 10 at Kansas Speedway.

Race events on May 9 and 10.

866.460.7223

One of KC’s mustsee events takes place May 25.

Celebration at the Station begins at 3:00. Bring blankets and enjoy the KC Symphony performing patriotic favorites. 816.460.2083

1 thursday

Free Play Cedar Ridge Christian Church. Daily free play for young children while parents enjoy a coffee drink. 913.393.3000 Preschool Playtime 9:30, Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church. Join us for an open gym with various toys and equipment. Snack and drink provided.

913.579.6867 Schoolhouse Rock Live! 10:00 & 2:00, Coterie Theatre. A musical that teaches history, grammar, math, science and government through clever songs. TheCoterie.org 75 Years of Oz, Oh My! 10:00, Crown Center. There’s no place like Crown Center to celebrate the 75th anniversary of The Wizard of Oz. Hurry! Last day to visit is May 4. Free. 816.274.8444 Visit Warm Springs Ranch Thru Oct 31, Warm Springs Ranch (Boonville).

Take a day trip to the state-of-the-art Budweiser Clydesdale breeding farm.

Pre-reg at WarmSpringsRanch.com.

Truman Heritage Festival Thru Sat, Main Street (Grandview). An annual free three-day event full of fun activities and attractions. Grandview.org Oliver! 7:00, Park Hill High School Theater. CYT brings one of Charles Dickens’ most classic tales to life on stage. $10-$12. 913.681.3318

2 friday Plant Sale 9:00, Overland Park Arboretum. Stroll the arboretum gardens for inspiration then choose your locally-grown plants. 913.685.3604

SHOP

KANSAS CITY’S

ONLY

RE PO P U P ST O L im

ited Time O

nly

Arts Festival 10:00, Leavenworth Virtual School Auditorium. An opportunity for homeschool students to participate in the Arts Festival. More info at 913.684.1540.

Paint Me a Story 10:30, Paint, Glaze and Fire. Paint a pottery piece that goes along with a favorite story. Snack included. $13-$15. Pre-reg. 913.661.2529 Story Time 10:30 & 11:30, Shawnee Books & Toys. Bring in the kids to participate in our weekly story time, craft and a snack. 913.962.1428 Family Night 4:00, Little Monkey Bizness. Bring the entire family for a night of fun! Admission is only $6, and pizza is available for purchase. 913.631.7000 Brookside Art Annual Thru Sunday, Brookside. Enjoy the first art show of the year, with children’s activities, food, music and, of course, art!

816.523.5553 Friday Night Family Fun 6:30, Plaza Library. Join us every Friday night for fun activities the whole family can enjoy! 816.701.3481

It’s what Legends is made of STYLE. SELECTION. SAVINGS. MOTHER’S DAY SAVINGS FROM 25% TO 65% AT OVER 100 STORES INCLUDING:

First Fridays 7:00, Crossroads Art District. Galleries and shops remain open the first Friday of each month. KCCrossroads.org

Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5TH • Nike Factory Store

Sky Mania 9:00, Sky Zone. A 90-minute, all-access pass to everything at Sky Zone. Includes 2 slices of pizza and a drink. Ages 10-15. $18. 913.213.5900

Stride Rite Outlet • Carter’s • Gap Outlet

3 saturday

Build a Flower Planter 9:00, Home Depot stores. Learn how to build a flower planter—just in time for Mother’s Day. Free. HomeDepot.com Annual Kids Fishing Derby 9:00, Lake Jacomo (North Marina). Ages 2 to 15 show off their angling skills at this fun-filled family event. Free. 816.229.8980

Banana Republic Factory Store • Tommy Hilfiger Polo Ralph Lauren Factory Store J.Crew | crewcuts • Gymboree Outlet Cole Haan • White House | Black Market Outlet Under Armour® • And many more...

Sheep Shearing 9:00, Missouri Town 1855. See the entire process of harvesting wool, from the shearing and washing to carding, spinning, dyeing and weaving. $3-$5. 816.503.4860 Teacher Appreciation 9:30, Kansas City Zoo. The zoo honors teachers,

I-435, Exit Parallel Pkwy West 913.788.3700 • LegendsShopping.com kcparent.com may 2014

53

Ball Game

May 3, 2:00, Hoglund Ballpark (KU). Buy one ticket get one free when you mention KC Parent for the 2:00 game. Stay for movie on the field after the game. KUAthletics.com administrators and home school educators with free admission for themselves and three guests.

KansasCityZoo.org

Education Center. Professional archaeologists will inspect your treasures. $3-$7.

816.503.4860

Celebrate Earth Day City Market. Recycle electronics for a small fee. Enjoy StoneLion Puppet Theatre’s Puppets for the Planet festival series.

TheCityMarket.org

No Dogs Allowed 2:00, Theatre for Young America (Union Station). Midwest premier of a new musical based on the award-winning book by Sonia Manzano. TYA.org

Marble Day 9:30, Downtown Bonner Springs.

Marble tournaments, parade, cake walk, bike rodeo and much more! Free. 816.807.4611 Playing on the Prairie 10:00, Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop and Farm. Enjoy springtime crafts and 1860s living history activities. Stagecoach rides $2, ages 3 & up. OlatheKS.org Celebrating Urban Birds 10:00, Lakeside Nature Center. Hear talks about urban birds, take a bird walk and make a craft. Free. 816.513.8960 Enchanted Forest Fairy Fest 10:00 & 1:00, Ernie Miller Nature Center. Design a fairy house, march in the fairy parade and hear stories from the fairy queen. $5. Pre-reg at 913.764.7759.

Artifact Identification Day 10:00, Fort Osage

Schoolhouse Craft 11:00, Lakeshore Learning. Color and collage a schoolhouse to celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week. Free.

913.432.3998 May Day 1:00, Lanesfield School Historic Site.

Join us for this celebration of spring! Dance around the maypole and make a May basket.

913.893.6645 Meet Me at the Museum 1:00, Kemper Museum.

Join a Kemper Museum docent for a lively discussion and tour of the museum’s current exhibitions. Free. 816.753.5784 May Day 1:00, Battle of Lexington Historic Site.

Celebrate a Victorian May Day with basket making, a maypole and games. 660.259.4654

Ball Game 2:00, Hoglund Ballpark (KU). Buy one ticket get one free when you mention KC Parent for the 2:00 game. Stay for movie on the field after the game. KUAthletics.com

4 sunday

Visit Sea Life 10:00, Sea Life Aquarium (Crown Center). Come nose to nose with sharks and prepare for close views of everything from starfish and seahorses to rays. VisitSeaLife.com

Imagine. . .

A place that meets you right where you’re at. . .

Imagine. . .

Learning how to be better equipped as a parent through speakers and discussion. Growing through a supportive network of moms who “get” it —from newborns to college. Serving not only your family but your community through outreach opportunities.

Imagine. . .

A mom “time out” from the hustle and bustle, the endless lists and the continual struggle to find balance in the midst of it all.

Join a group of women who understand. n n n n n n

BBM — Early Childhood BBM — Elementary BBM — Middle/High School BBM — Moms of College/20s BBM — Evening Moms BBM — RezWest

Each group meets approximately twice a month during the school year to enjoy food and fellowship, speakers and group discussion.

All groups also participate in mission projects supported by The Church of the Resurrection.

Imagine. . .

Discovering valuable tips on hot topics such as discipline, building faith as a family, peer influences, and how to juggle it all.

We invite you to be inspired, invigorated and to

Imagine. . .

the possibilities.

Enrollment begins May 10th.

For more information:

www.cor.org/bbm | 913-232-4188

Enjoy 15% off your purchase!

Use code: “kcpMAY15”

(exp. 5.31.14. online only. cannot be combined.)

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kcparent.com may 2014

Chihuahua Parade 10:00, Barney Allis Plaza.

Bring the entire family, especially the fourlegged members. Free to humans, $5 for dogs.

816.516.7849

Winston Churchill: The Artist 10:00, Hallmark Visitors Center. Enjoy a rare opportunity to view the art of Churchill. Learn about his connection with Hallmark. 816.274.3613

Arrive & Drive Noon, Extreme Grand Prix Family Fun Center. Indoor kart racing, inflatables and an arcade provide a fun family outing. 816.286.4156

Free Melanoma Screening 3:00, Medical Office Building (KU Hospital). Dermatologists from KU Med Center will be on hand to provide the screenings. Pre-reg at 913.588.4719.

art + family = FUN 1:00, Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Join us every Saturday and Sunday for free activities for all ages! 816.751.1278 Train Rides 2:00, Belton, Grandview and KC RR. Enjoy an old-fashioned train ride Saturdays and Sundays through October. 816.331.0630

5 monday

Moms FREE Monday 9:30, Paradise Park. Moms are free at the Children’s EduTainment Center with a paid child’s admission. 816.246.5224 Discovery of King Tut 10:00, Union Station. Let your footsteps retrace the paths of the breathtaking ancient Egyptian archeological site. $12.50$19.95. UnionStation.org Toddler Takeover 10:00, Kansas City North Community Center. Bring your little ones under 4 to run and play in the gym. $1. 816.784.6100 Toddle Time 10:00, Bonner Springs Community Center. Bring your kids to play on the large assortment of toys in the gym. $2. 913.422.7010

Arrive & Drive 3:00, Extreme Grand Prix Family Fun Center. Indoor kart racing, inflatables and an arcade provide a fun family outing. 816.286.4156

6 tuesday Preschool Indoor Playground 9:30, Irene B French Community Center (Merriam). Kids will enjoy inflatable bouncers, Little Tykes riding toys and MORE! $2. 913.322.5550 All Day Play in Sky Maze 10:00, Amazing Play.

For only $6, kids of all ages can run, climb and play in the sky maze. 816.994.2160

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Schoolhouse Rock Live! 10:00 & 2:00, Coterie Theatre. A musical that teaches history, grammar, PMS 295 math, science and government through clever40% black songs. TheCoterie.org Coffee Playground 10:00, OP First Assembly of God. Free play in the gym for kids 5 and under.

Inflatables, scooters, balls and other toys!

OverlandParkMops.blogspot.com fonts

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a2

black/white

Photo by J. Robert Schraeder and courtesy of the Coterie Theatre.

Schoolhouse Rock Live

Thru May 18, Coterie Theatre. A musical that teaches history, grammar, math, science and government through clever songs. TheCoterie.org Creative Story Time 11:00, Ceramic Café. Hear a story, create a pottery piece and enjoy a simple snack. 913.383.0222

7 wednesday Stories for Ones 9:30, Waldo Library. Bring your 1-year-old to a story time geared toward this age group. 816.701.3486 Pixie Class 9:30, Skate City (Overland Park). Bring kids ages 2-6 to learn to skate safely while having fun. Snack included. $5. 913.888.6668 Dino O’Dell Concert 10:00, Johnson County Museum. Come enjoy Dino’s unique blend of folk rock and reggae! $3. Pre-reg at 913.715.2575.

Animal Tales 10:30, Ernie Miller Nature Center.

Visit the nature center for stories, songs and surprises. Meet a special animal friend every time. $2. 913.764.7759 Hard Hat Tour 2:00, Kansas City Museum. Take a hard hat tour of Corinthian Hall and see how it looks mid-renovation. KansasCityMuseum.org

8 thursday

Thrill U Education Days 9:00, Worlds of Fun.

Students apply physics, science and mathematics to an amusement park and thrill rides. WorldsOfFun.com The Miracle Worker Thru Saturday, the Culture House. The story of how Anne Sullivan taught Helen Keller, a blind, deaf and mute young woman.

CultureHouse.com Visit LEGOLAND 10:00, LEGOLAND Discovery Center. Spend the day creating with Legos. Be sure to visit the newly remodeled Lego Friends area. 816.471.4386 Getting Ready 2:00, National Frontier Trails Museum. In this guided tour, examine the decision to go west and what it would take to get ready.

816.325.7575 Info Meeting at Christ Prep Academy 6:30, Community Covenant Church. Come to learn more about this university model school.

913.831.1345

an amazing new adventure.

LegendsOfOzMovie.com Sun Block Party 6:00, Sunflower Dermatology.

A family fun event with food trucks, fire trucks, music dunk the doctor and great giveaways.

SunBlockParty.com

9 friday

Cinderella 7:30, Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts. The KC Ballet performs a special twist on this favorite fairy tale. 816.931.2232

Legends of Oz Opens today, movie theaters across the metro. Follow the yellow brick road to

Camping World Truck Series 7:30, Kansas

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Explore an Amazing Underwater World

olivia’s House now open!

Book online for Great SavinGS

www.visitsealife.com/ kansas-city Located at Crown Center in Kansas City, MO Book online for Great SavinGS

www.leGolanDDiscoveryCenter.com/kansascity

Claws Exhibit Now Open

• factory tour • 4D Cinema • leGo MinilanD • leGo rides • Play Zone • Celebration rooms • leGo Shop, Café and Much More! ®

®

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LEGO, the LEGO logo, the Brick and Knob configurations and LEGOLAND are trademarks of the LEGO Group, ©2014 The LEGO Group.

Save up to $15 off admission

Terms & Conditions - Please present the coupon when purchasing tickets. This discount is not valid with other discounts, coupons or offers and can not be used with online or pre-booked tickets. Duplications or sale of this offer is prohibited. No cash value. Not redeemable for cash or credit. Valid until 12/31/2014. Reference - 1304

Terms & Conditions - Please present the coupon when purchasing tickets. This discount is not valid with other discounts coupons or offers and can not be used with online or pre-booked tickets. Duplications or sale of this offer is prohibited. No cash value. Not redeemable for cash or credit.Valid until 12/31/2014. Reference - 1303

Save $3 off admission to LEGOLAND Discovery Center Kansas City up to a maximum of 5 guests with this coupon.

56

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Save up to $15 off admission!

kcparent.com may 2014

Save $3 off admission to SEA LIFE Kansas City up to a maximum of 5 guests with this coupon.

Speedway. Watch the tough trucks race under the lights. KansasSpeedway.com

TRAIN RIDES

10 saturday Overland Park Farmers’ Market 6:30, Downtown OP. Shop for a wide variety of products from farm, fresh produce, local foods and unique specialty items. 913.895.6390 Building Better Moms Church of the Resurrection. Registration for the 2014-15 school year opens this weekend. Enjoy fun and fellowship with other moms. COR.org/BBM Celebrate Downtown Shawnee 9:00, Downtown Shawnee. Annual downtown open house and official kick-off to the summer season. Free.

913.742.6226

Train Rides

Thomas Hart Benton Display 10:00, National World War I Museum. View a display describing the impact of Benton’s US Naval experience on his art. 816.888.8100 Lenexa Art Fair 10:00, Central Green at City Center. Enjoy the first Lenexa Art Fair. View art, listen to music and shop at various booths. Free.

913.477.7100 Spring Nature Walk 10:30, Fort Osage. Learn about the flora and fauna surrounding Fort Osage and enjoy a guided hike along the banks of the Missouri River. $3-$7. 816.503.4860 Celebrate Mom 11:00, Lakeshore Learning. Kids create a blooming bouquet, special craft stick card, plus a “queen for a day” sash and crown.

Free. 913.432.3998 Sprint Family Fun Days 11:00, KC P&L District.

Celebrate your children’s favorite superheroes with games, arts, crafts, face painting and more.

Free admission. 816.842.1045 Helmet & Bike Fair 11:30, Hoglund & Arrocha ballparks. Bike inspections, free helmet and a family fun zone. Visit with Baby Jay and attend 2:00 KU games. KUAthletics.com Wonderpalooza Concert 1:30, Wonderscope. A monthly family concert series at Wonderscope.

Today’s performer is Janie Next Door. $4-$7.

913.287.8888 The Miracle Worker 2:00 & 7:00, the Culture House. The story of how Anne Sullivan taught Helen Keller, a blind, deaf and mute young woman. CultureHouse.com

$9.50 Regular Trains Depart Sat & Sun, 2 pm [May - Oct] Sat., 11 am [June - Aug only]

Ice Cream Train $10.50 Every Friday, June - Aug, 7 pm

Charters • Field Trips or Birthday Parties, plan by appointment.

Kids under three FREE

Tickets go on sale one hour before train departure time.

Belton, Grandview & Kansas City Railroad Co.

502 Walnut •Belton, Missouri • 816-331-0630 • www.beltonrailroad.org

Will you be my s uperhero?

Are you interested in changing a child’s life by welcoming a boy or girl with intellectual/developmental disabilities into your home and becoming their “real-life superhero”?

More Superheros Needed.

For more information on how you can become a therapeutic foster family for a child with special needs, please contact Lakemary’s Supported Family Living Coordinator at (913) 671-1800 ext. 207 today.

Kansas 400 6:30, Kansas Speedway. The inaugural NASCAR Sprint Cup Series night races.

KansasSpeedway.com

11 sunday: mother’s day Celebrate Moms 9:30, Kansas City Zoo. What better way to celebrate Mom than with a relax-

www.lakemaryctr.org kcparent.com may 2014

57

Sky Mania

Every Friday night, 9:00, Sky Zone. A 90-minute, all-access pass to everything at Sky Zone.

Includes 2 slices of pizza and a drink. Ages 10-15. $18. 913.213.5900 ing day at the Kansas City Zoo? Moms are free!

KansasCityZoo.org Mother’s Day Brunch & Concert 11:00 or 1:00, Powell Gardens. Enjoy brunch in Café Thyme and listen to Brookside Brass. $12-$30. Pre-reg at 816.697.2600 x209.

Moms Matter at Mahaffie Noon, Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm. Enjoy Mother’s Day at Mahaffie! Sit down with your mom to fill out your family tree. $4-$6. 913.971.5111 Mother’s Day Gift to Mom Louisburg Cider Mill.

Bring Mom in to our country store today to treat her to a small cider and one cider donut!

LouisburgCidermill.com Mother’s Day Celebration 1:00, Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Tons of fun activities throughout the museum! Free. Nelson-Atkins.org

12 monday

Intro to Furniture Painting Techniques 9:00, Johnson County Fairgrounds. Learn to transform a piece of wooden furniture for your home. $85.

Pre-reg at 913.715.7000.

Discovery of King Tut 10:00, Union Station. Let

your footsteps follow the paths of the breathtaking ancient Egyptian archeological site. $12.50-$19.95. UnionStation.org Toddler Takeover 10:00, Kansas City North Community Center. Bring your little ones under 4 to run and play in the gym. $1. 816.784.6100 Toddle Time 10:00, Bonner Springs Community Center. Bring your kids to play on the large assortment of toys in the gym. $2. 913.422.7010 Winston Churchill: The Artist 10:00, Hallmark Visitors Center. Enjoy a rare opportunity to view the art of Churchill. Learn about his connection with Hallmark. 816.274.3613 Power Hour 1:00, Little Monkey Bizness. Arrive between 1:00 and 3:00 on Monday and Wednesday and admission is just $5 plus tax!

913.631.7000

13 tuesday

Toddler Time 9:30, Sky Zone. A special time for little ones to jump on Tuesdays and Fridays. $7.

913.213.5900

Overland Park

farmers’ market

Indoor Play 10:00, Rainbow Play Systems. Bring the kids to run, jump and play on the swing sets and equipment. $4/child. 913.780.6500 Visit Warm Springs Ranch Thru Oct 31, Warm Springs Ranch (Boonville). Take a day trip to the state-of-the-art Budweiser Clydesdale breeding farm. Pre-reg at WarmSpringsRanch.com.

Moms Group Deal 10:00, Amazing Play. Moms groups get one free Cloud Jump for each Sky Maze purchased. AmazingPlayFunCenter.com Coffee Playground 10:00, OP First Assembly of

Special Beginnings EARLY LEARNING CENTER Quality Christian early care and education for over 20 years!

Saturdays Until Nov. 22 6:30 a.m.-1 P.M.

Wednesdays May 21 - Sept. 24 7:30 a.m.-1 P.M.

• PT or FT schedule • M-F, 6 am to 6 pm • NAC Accredited • Infants to 12 years • Developmental Curriculum starting at Infants Lenexa Infants-School Age 10216 Pflumm Rd. 913.894.0131

NEW! SCHOOL AGE SPACE RECENTLY OPENED IN LENEXA!

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opkansas.org 58

kcparent.com may 2014

Overland Park Infants-Pre-K 8205 W 108th Terr 913.378.1075

Register today & receive $100 credit upon enrollment!

God. Free play in the gym for kids 5 and under.

Inflatables, scooters, balls and other toys!

OverlandParkMops.blogspot.com

20-minute story time followed with a craft.

816.701.3481

14 wednesday

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

School Day at the K 9:15, Kauffman Stadium.

Join Leavenworth Virtual for a fun day of meteorology and a ballgame. 913.684.1540 Stories for Ones 9:30, Waldo Library. Bring your 1-year-old to a story time geared toward this age group. 816.701.3486 Pixie Class 9:30, Skate City (Overland Park). Bring kids ages 2-6 to learn to skate safely while having fun. Snack included. $5. 913.888.6668 Toddler Takeover 10:00, Kansas City North Community Center. Bring your little ones under 4 to run and play in the gym. $1. 816.784.6100 All Day Play in Sky Maze 10:00, Amazing Play.

For only $6, kids of all ages can run, climb and play in the Sky Maze. 816.994.2160 Pirates Don’t Change Diapers 10:30, MCPL (North Oak). Come on a pirate adventure. Activities include walking the plank, creating a pirate flag and more! For ages 3 and up; free. Pre-reg at 816.436.4385.

15 thursday

Tales for Tiny Tykes 9:30 & 10:30, Plaza Library.

Toddlers ages 18-36 months can listen to a

clever songs. TheCoterie.org

Preschool Playtime 9:30, Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church. Join us for an open gym with various toys and equipment. Snack and drink provided. 913.579.6867 Pocahontas! 10:00 & 7:00, MidAmerica Nazarene University. CYT performs this musical that explores the historical facts of Pocahontas. $10-$12.

913.681.3318 No Dogs Allowed 10:00, Theatre for Young America (Union Station). Midwest premiere of a new musical based on the award-winning book

by Sonia Manzano. TYA.org Arrive & Drive 3:00, Extreme Grand Prix Family Fun Center. Indoor kart racing, inflatables and an arcade provide a fun family outing. 816.286.4156

16 friday

Master Gardener Public Garden Tour Today & tomorrow. Tour six of the most beautiful private gardens in Kansas City. $12-$15. 913.715.7000 Schoolhouse Rock Live! 10:00, 2:00 & 7:00, Coterie Theatre. A musical that teaches history, grammar, math, science and government through

Friday Playgroup 10:30, Turner Community Library. Little ones have fun listening to stories and joining in on crafts and songs. 913.596.1404 Paint Me a Story 10:30, Paint, Glaze and Fire.

Paint a pottery piece that goes along with a favorite story. Snack included. $13-$15. Pre-reg.

913.661.2529 Hard Hat Tour 2:00, Kansas City Museum. Take a hard hat tour of Corinthian Hall and see how it looks mid-renovation. KansasCityMuseum.org Family Night 4:00, Little Monkey Bizness. Bring the entire family for a night of fun! Admission is only $6, and pizza is available for purchase.

913.631.7000 Englewood Art Walk 5:30, Englewood Shopping District. See artists in action, enjoy demonstrations and relish live music and refreshments.

816.252.3372 Movie in the Park 8:30, Electric Park (Lenexa).

Bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy a movie under the stars. 913.477.7100

17 saturday

Overland Park Farmers’ Market 6:30, Downtown OP. Shop for a wide variety of products from farm-fresh produce to local foods and unique specialty items. 913.895.6390

REAL BIG

Save $2

on tickets code: KCPARENT14

REAL BIG

An amazing ride with Thomas the Tank Engine™!

Plus tons of other activities. www.ticketweb.com/dowt or call 866-468-7630

DATES: MAY 30-JUNE 1 & 6-8 MIDLAND RAILWAY 1515 HIGH ST., BALDWIN CITY, KS 66006

Day Out With Thomas™ Thomas the Tank Engine & Friends™ Based on The Railway Series by The Reverend W. Awdry. © 2014 Gullane (Thomas) Limited. Thomas the Tank Engine & Friends, Thomas & Friends and Day Out With Thomas are trademarks of Gullane (Thomas) Limited. © 2014 HIT Entertainment Limited. © 2014 MEGA Brands Inc. All rights reserved.

MEGA BLOKS and the MEGA BLOKS logo are registered trademarks of Mega Brands Inc.

kcparent.com may 2014

59

take note: may ’14 May 1: Mother Goose Day Head to the Central Library of the Kansas City Public Library (14 W. 10th St., Kansas City, MO, KCLibrary.org), housed in the former First National Bank of Kansas City. The library features a gorgeous children’s department where patrons enter through the pages of a book. Find your favorite Mother Goose storybook and cuddle up on a comfy chair for an afternoon of reading.

May 2: Space Day Head to the Kansas Cosmosphere Date your Mate Month: A whole month dedicated to spending quality time with the one you love? Gotta love that! In need of a fresh idea beyond the go-to dinner and movie?

Visit KCParent.com and search “Favorite Dates” for fresh ideas and fun.

(Cosmo.org), a Smithsonian-affiliated museum in Hutchinson, KS (just a few hours west of KC), that chronicles the space race through personal stories, displays of real spacecraft, hands-on exhibits, live rocket shows and more.

May 5: Cinco de Mayo Celebrate at one of Southwest Boulevard’s most notable Mexican restaurants for more than 30 years, Manny’s (MannysKC.com).

May 8: Iris Day Visit Powell Gardens (1609 NW U.S. Hwy. 50, Kingsville, MO, PowellGardens.org), where you can enjoy stunning Iris Hill on the east side of the gardens, featuring more than 500 varieties of iris. While you’re there, enjoy acres of beautiful gardens including the Heartland Harvest Garden (an edible landscape) and the Monet Garden.

May 9: Lost Sock Memorial Day If your house is anything like our house, you have a collection of lost socks! Today’s the day to grab some markers and googly eyes and put the lonely mates to good use as puppets…perhaps they can perform a ballad in honor of their missing partners.

National Barbecue Month: As residents of the barbecue capital of America, Kansas Citians never need a new excuse to fire up the grill or head to their fave barbecue restaurant. Whether it’s at Jack Stack or Oklahoma Joe’s—or grabbing smoked meat at McGoningle’s or Fritz’s Smoked Meats—welcome the coming summer with some juicy ribs and tangy sauce.

May 10: National Train Day Celebrate with Kansas City Northern Miniature Railroad in Frank Vaydik Park from 10:00 to 2:00 (train rides will run until 6:00). Cost is just .50 for train rides; all other activities (live entertainment, face painting, inflatables, etc.) are FREE. See KCParks.org for info.

May 20: Strawberry Picking Day The first opportunity to pick fresh strawberries typically lands close to this nationally recognized day. Our favorite spot is Gieringer’s Orchard in Edgerton (just a 40-minute drive for us in South KC...generally 30-60 minutes from most spots in the metro). Watch their website (GieringersOrchard.com) closely for official opening date and hours.

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May 26: Memorial Day Visit KCParent.com for a complete list of festivities and your Kick Off Summer Fun planner!

Discovery of King Tut

Thru Sept. 7, Union Station. Let your footsteps follow the paths of the breathtaking ancient Egyptian archeological site. $12.50-$19.95. UnionStation.org Fishing Derby 8:30, Rotary Park (Blue Springs).

Bring a fishing pole, bait and container to enjoy the outdoors while catching various types of fish.

816.228.0137 Big Truck & Equipment Show 9:00, Lee’s Summit City Hall. Kids young and old can climb into the driver’s seat of some of the biggest pieces of equipment. Free. 816.969.1803 Kids Fishing Derby 9:30, Legacy Park Lake (Lee’s Summit). An introduction to sport fishing and the responsibility of caring for our natural resources.

Pre-reg at CityOfLS.net.

Endangered Species Day 10:00, Kansas City Zoo. Stations set up in the zoo lobby with crafts and activities to help kids learn about endangered species. KansasCityZoo.org Scavenger Saturdays 10:00, Kemper Museum of Art. Follow the clues on this “ART-astic” adventure!

816.753.5784 Family Fun Day 10:00, National Frontier Trails Museum. A day of fun and festivities where fur traders/trappers and pioneers share their experiences. Free. 816.325.7575 Indies First Story Time 10:30, Shawnee Books & Toys. Celebrate kids and independent book stores. Hear great stories, meet great authors and have a great time. Free. 913.962.1428 Catch of the Day 11:00, Lakeshore Learning.

Kids make a great catch every time—with a fabulous fish craft they make and play with! Free.

913.432.3998 Cinderella Tea Party 11:30, Baltimore Club. Enjoy a light lunch, story and visit with Cinderella. Then see the 2:00 performance of Cinderella by the Kansas City Ballet. 816.931.2232 Train Rides 2:00, Belton, Grandview and KC RR. Enjoy an old-fashioned train ride Saturdays and Sundays through October. 816.331.0630 Saturday Night Feeder Saturdays thru Oct, 4:00, Cedar Cove Feline Sanctuary. Watch the cats being fed. $5. 816.739.0363 Overnight Fishing 11:00, Shawnee Mission Park.

The park will be open for fishing only, and park police officers will be on duty throughout the night. 913.888.4713

18 sunday

KC Triathlon 7:00, Longview Lake Beach. A destination event that caters to the participating athletes, families and friends.

KansasCityTriathlon.com Discovery of King Tut 11:00, Union Station. Let

your footsteps follow the paths of the breathtaking ancient Egyptian archeological site. $12.50-$19.95. UnionStation.org art + family = FUN 1:00, Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Join us every Saturday and Sunday for free activities for all ages!

816.751.1278 Hercules! 2:00, Goppert Theatre (Avila University). CYT performs this play that follows the Greek legend of Hercules. $10-$12. 913.681.3318 No Dogs Allowed! 2:00, Wonderscope. Theater for Young America brings the production of No Dogs Allowed! to Wonderscope. Wonderscope.org Jazz at the Arboretum 7:00, Overland Park Arboretum. Relax and groove at the arboretum with a jazz concert featuring the group Noteworthy Jazz. $3. 913.685.3604

19 monday Moms FREE Monday 9:30, Paradise Park. Moms are free at the Children’s EduTainment Center with a paid child’s admission. 816.246.5224 Toddler Takeover 10:00, Kansas City North Community Center. Bring your little ones under 4 to run and play in the gym. $1. 816.784.6100 Toddle Time 10:00, Bonner Springs Community Center. Bring your kids to play on the large assortment of toys in the gym. $2. 913.422.7010 Winston Churchill: The Artist 10:00, Hallmark Visitors Center. Enjoy a rare opportunity to view the art of Churchill. Learn about his connection with Hallmark. 816.274.3613 Puppet Show 11:00, Lenexa Community Center.

Young kids will love Joan and Sue’s puppet show.

Free. 913.477.7100

20 tuesday Thomas Hart Benton Display 10:00, National World War I Museum. View a display describing the impact of Benton’s US Naval experience on his art. 816.888.8100 Coffee Playground 10:00, OP First Assembly of God. Free play in the gym for kids 5 and under.

Inflatables, scooters, balls and other toys!

OverlandParkMops.blogspot.com Indoor Play 10:00, Rainbow Play Systems. Bring the kids to run, jump and play on the swing sets and equipment. $4/child. 913.780.6500 Creative Story Time 11:00, Ceramic Café. Hear a story, create a pottery piece and enjoy a simple snack. 913.383.0222 Tots on Tuesday 11:00, Kemper Museum. Bring

in your preschooler for a fun and fashionable gettogether every third Tuesday. 816.753.5784

21 wednesday Stories for Ones 9:30, Waldo Library. Bring your 1-year-old to a story time geared toward this age group. 816.701.3486 Mommy and Me Bumper Bowling 9:30, Summit Lanes. Bumper bowling for moms and tots! $3/ea includes game, shoe rental and drink.

816.524.3322 Jo Ho Storyteller 10:00, Johnson County Museum. “Grandma Jo” teaches how to make a daisy chain and tells stories and sings songs. Free.

913.715.2552 Animal Tales 10:30, Ernie Miller Nature Center.

Visit the nature center for stories, songs and surprises. Meet a special animal friend every time. $2. 913.764.7759 Hard Hat Tour 2:00, Kansas City Museum. Take a hard hat tour of Corinthian Hall and see how it looks mid-renovation. KansasCityMuseum.org Open Jump 3:00, Sky Zone. Kids will enjoy jumping and bouncing on the trampolines. Sessions can get full, so pre-reg online. 913.213.5900 Awesome Birds 3:30, Mid-Continent Public Library (North Oak). Meet birds that can play basketball, bowl, skate and even spell words! Free.

Pre-reg at 816.436.4385.

22 thursday

Tales for Tiny Tykes 9:30 & 10:30, Plaza Library.

Toddlers ages 18-36 months can listen to a 20-minute story time followed with a craft.

816.701.3481 Indoor Playground 9:30-11:30, Sylvester Powell Comm Ctr. Children 6 and under can play on developmentally appropriate toys for just $2.

913.722.8200 Visit LEGOLAND 10:00, LEGOLAND Discovery kcparent.com may 2014

61

Jiggle Jam Family Fest

May 24-25, Crown Center Square. Family music festival featuring local and national entertainers. $10-$18. 816.997.8511 Center. Spend the day creating with Legos. Be sure to visit the newly remodeled Lego Friends area. 816.471.4386 Toddler Town Unlimited Play 10:00, Amazing Play. Young ones will enjoy running off energy and exploring in Toddler Town! $6. 816.994.2160 Getting Ready 2:00, National Frontier Trails Museum. In this guided tour, examine the decision to go west and what it would take to get ready.

816.325.7575

23 friday

Toddler Time 9:30, Sky Zone. A special time for little ones to jump on Tuesdays and Fridays. $7.

913.213.5900 Story Time 10:30 & 11:30, Shawnee Books & Toys.

Bring in the kids to participate in our weekly story time, craft and a snack. 913.962.1428 Family Night 4:00, Little Monkey Bizness. Bring the entire family for a night of fun! Admission is only $6, and pizza is available for purchase.

913.631.7000 Friday Night Family Fun 6:30, Plaza Library. Join

us every Friday night for fun activities the whole family can enjoy! 816.701.3481 Music in the Park 6:30, Howard Station Park (Lee’s Summit). Free Friday night concerts featuring a variety of musical genres. Bring a lawn chair or blanket.

816.246.6598

24 saturday

Jiggle Jam Family Fest Today & tomorrow, Crown Center Square. Family music festival featuring local and national entertainers. $10-$18. 816.997.8511 Superhero Puppet 11:00, Lakeshore Learning.

Children transform everyday collage materials into a powerful superhero puppet that saves the day! 913.432.3998 MO Beach Season Longview Lake and Blue Springs Lake beaches open today at 11:00 for the season. 816.503.4876 Eulenspiegel Circus 11:00 & 2:00, Puppetry Arts Institute. A joyous fantasy featuring table top puppets, a kazoo band and lots of silly business. $5. 816.833.9777

KS Beach Season Shawnee Mission Park and Kill Creek Park beaches open for the season at Noon today. 913.888.4713 art + family = FUN 1:00, Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Join us every Saturday and Sunday for free activities for all ages! 816.751.1278 Meet Me at the Museum 1:00, Kemper Museum.

Join a Kemper Museum docent for a lively discussion and tour of the museum’s current exhibitions. Free. 816.753.5784 Kids Team Up for Art 1:30, Kansas City Public

5 favorite area bike trails May is National Bike Month! After many cold, wet and windy months, it’s great to break out the bikes and enjoy some fresh air and exercise as a family! Discover more local trails at KCBike.info/KCTrails/.

Trolley Trail: This 6-mile paved trail connects the Country Club Plaza, Brookside and Waldo in southern Kansas City, MO. BikeWalkKC.org Why we love it: This is a great urban ride with many super lunch stops and shops along the way.

Longview Lake Trail: Located in South KC and Lee’s Summit; take I-470 to Raytown Rd. south and follow signs toward the marina. JacksonGov.org Why we love it: The scenic trail passes lakeside views, woods, prairies and parks along the way, offering stopping points for a picnic.

Smithville Lake Trail: This 4-mile (and growing) off-road trail is great for mountain bikers. ClayCountyMo.gov/Parks Why we love it: Smithville Lake offers a scenic view for the rider to get out and enjoy nature.

Mill Creek Streamway Park: One of the nicest paved trails in Johnson County, this 10+ mile byway runs along the creek from the Kaw River, south through Shawnee Mission Park, to 119th Street in Olathe. JCPRD.com/parks Why we love it: This popular trail offers a variety of scenery along the way.

Shawnee Mission Park: The park offers mountain bike trails connecting to Mill Creek Streamway Park trails. JCPRD.com Why we love it: Lake, woods and shelters make this a great choice for nature lovers.

The Ultimate Midwestern Weekend Bike Trip: Katy Trail State Park: This 185-mile cross-state trail travels from Sedalia, MO, to St. Charles/St. Louis. You’ll find scenic rural towns, forests and Missouri River bluffs along the way—don’t forget the camera! Plan to camp at Missouri state parks along the way or stay in local inns.

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Library (Waldo Branch). Focus on both individual skill building and the completion of a group project. WestportCenterForTheArts.org Saturday Night Feeder Saturdays thru Oct, 4:00, Cedar Cove Feline Sanctuary. Watch the cats being fed. $5. 816.739.0363

25 sunday

Pools Open Overland Park pools open for the 2014 summer season today. Take a dip!

OPKansas.org Visit Warm Springs Ranch Thru Oct 31, Warm Springs Ranch (Boonville). Take a day trip to the state-of-the-art Budweiser Clydesdale breeding farm. Pre-reg at WarmSpringsRanch.com.

Train Rides 2:00, Belton, Grandview and KC RR. Enjoy an old-fashioned train ride Saturdays and Sundays through October. 816.331.0630 Celebration at the Station 8:00, Union Station lawn. Attend the largest free Memorial Day weekend event in the Midwest. Free. 816.460.2083

26 monday: memorial day

Moms FREE Monday 9:30, Paradise Park. Moms are free at the Children’s EduTainment Center with a paid child’s admission. 816.246.5224 Super Kid Saves the World 10:00, Crown Center.

Hands-on exhibit for kids to explore. The big message is reduce, reuse, repair and recycle. Free.

CrownCenter.com Memorial Day Ceremony 10:00, Nat’l World War I Museum. Museum open today, and ceremony includes include performances by the American Legion Band, along with speeches. 816.888.8100

27 tuesday

Preschool Indoor Playground 9:30, Irene B French Community Center (Merriam). Kids will enjoy inflatable bouncers, Little Tykes riding toys and MORE! $2. 913.322.5550 All Day Play in Sky Maze 10:00, Amazing Play.

For only $6, kids of all ages can run, climb and play in the sky maze. 816.994.2160 Coffee Playground 10:00, OP First Assembly of God. Free play in the gym for kids 5 and under.

Inflatables, scooters, balls and other toys!

OverlandParkMops.blogspot.com Indoor Play 10:00, Rainbow Play Systems. Bring the kids to run, jump and play on the swing sets and equipment. $4/child. 913.780.6500 Winston Churchill: The Artist 10:00, Hallmark Visitors Center. Enjoy a rare opportunity to view the art of Churchill. Learn about his connection with Hallmark. 816.274.3613 Creative Story Time 11:00, Ceramic Café. Hear a story, create a pottery piece and enjoy a simple snack. 913.383.0222 kcparent.com may 2014

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28 wednesday

shoe rental, bumpers for preschoolers & a small soft drink for only $3. 913.432.7000

Pop ‘n Play 9:00, Johnson County Museum. A drop-in program with age-appropriate activities for children 9 months to 3 years old. 913.715.2550 Stories for Ones 9:30, Waldo Library. Bring your 1-year-old to a story time geared toward this age group. 816.701.3486 Pixie Class 9:30, Skate City (Overland Park). Bring kids ages 2-6 to learn to skate safely while having fun. Snack included. $5. 913.888.6668 Toddler Takeover 10:00, Kansas City North Community Center. Bring your little ones under 4 to run and play in the gym. $1. 816.784.6100 Discovery of King Tut 10:00, Union Station. Let your footsteps follow the paths of the breathtaking ancient Egyptian archeological site. $12.50$19.95. UnionStation.org Power Hour 1:00, Little Monkey Bizness. Arrive between 1:00 and 3:00 on Monday and Wednesday and admission is just $5 plus tax!

913.631.7000

29 thursday Thomas Hart Benton Display 10:00, National World War I Museum. View a display describing the impact of Benton’s US Naval experience on his art. 816.888.8100 Bumper Bowling 10:00, Mission Bowl. Bowling,

Hard Hat Tour 2:00, Kansas City Museum. Take a hard hat tour of Corinthian Hall and see how it looks mid-renovation. KansasCityMuseum.org Country Mouse, Town Mouse 2:00, MCPL (Blue Springs South). Watch as Banruku Marionettes, hand-and-rod puppets, perform Country Mouse, Town Mouse. Free. 816.229.3751 Evening Wagon Ride and Swales Walk 6:00, National Frontier Trails Museum. Wagon ride, tour and informative program. $10-$15. Pre-reg at 816.325.7575.

30 friday

and a snack. Free. 816.246.7323 Music in the Park 6:30, Howard Station Park (Lee’s Summit). Free Friday night concerts featuring a variety of musical genres. Bring a lawn chair or blanket. 816.246.6598

31 saturday Overland Park Farmers’ Market 6:30, Downtown OP. Shop for a wide variety of products from farm-fresh produce to local foods and unique specialty items. 913.895.6390 Annual Train Show 10:00, the Heritage Center (Leavenworth). Miniature train displays from Topeka, Atchison and St Joseph vendors. Mini-train rides available.913.682.2122

Day Out With Thomas Thru June 1 & June 6-8.

A ride with Thomas plus tons of other fun activities. Save $2 on tickets with code KCParent14.

866.468.7630

Mermaid Mobile 11:00, Lakeshore Learning.

Bring the magic of myth into your home with a kid-crafted mermaid mobile that twinkles as it turns. Free. 913.432.3998

Toddler Town 10:00, Roger T Sermon Community Center. Children ages 5 and under enjoy visiting our indoor playground in the gym. $1.

816.325.7370

Train Rides 2:00, Belton, Grandview and KC RR. Enjoy an old-fashioned train ride Saturdays and Sundays through October. 816.331.0630

Touch-A-Truck 10:00, Leavenworth Landing Park.

Children can climb on & in several different types of trucks they see in and around their neighborhood. Free. 913.651.2203 Story Time 11:00, Reader’s World Lee’s Summit.

Every Friday enjoy story time with a story, crafts

piano

Saturday Night Feeder Saturdays thru Oct, 4:00, Cedar Cove Feline Sanctuary. Watch the cats being fed. $5. 816.739.0363 Cinderella Today & tomorrow, Yardley Hall (JCCC). Miller Marley Youth ballet performs this beloved story through dance. 913.469.4445

Teaching children and adults the love of dance for 43 years.

lessons

Learn to play piano and have FUN doing it!

Ages 4+ • All Skill Levels • Affordable Flexible • Experienced Teacher (9 yrs)

SPRING SPECIAL: SIGN UP FOR THE FIRST MONTH AND RECEIVE ONE FREE LESSON!

Daytime lessons available for homeschoolers!

Call Spring Terburgh at 913-636-4472

LESSONS CONVENIENTLY LOCATED RIGHT OFF I-35 AND 119th ST IN OLATHE

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now enrolling!

recreation & competitive levels ages 2 & up

913.764.4146 135th St. & South Arapaho Dr. www.leighsschoolofdance.com

We Welcome your children to our Warm, fun environment, Where every child is treated With personalized care.

Dentistry for infants, children, teens and all those with special needs

• Comprehensive pediatric dental care including orthodontics • Low radiation digital x-rays • Individualized oral health education

Dr. John T. Fales, Jr.

13496 S. Arapaho Drive • Olathe, KS 66062 913.782.2207 • 913.489.0028 Fax

www.KIDZDENTIST.com

find us on facebook kcparent.com may 2014

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EXPLORE KANSAS

CITY ZOO Watch Polar Bears Flip and Splash at Polar Bear Passage, Penguins Waddle and dive at Helzberg Penguin Plaza and much, much more!

Always a new adventure!

2014 FOTZ Memberships NOW AVAILABLE! kansascityzoo.org 816.595.1234

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The Kansas City Zoo, a private, non-profit organization is operated in agreement with the Kansas City, MO Board of Parks and Recreation Commissioners, partially funded by the Zoological District in Jackson and Clay Counties in MO, and is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.

Our sports medicine specialists are solely dedicated to the unique needs of adolescents, so student athletes can go from rehab to ribbon collecting in record time. The transformative care of Children’s Mercy is now available in South Overland Park.

Dislocation

District Champion

Visit our Center for Sports Medicine, featuring a state-of-the-art gym, at the new Children’s Mercy Blue Valley location.

6750 West 135th St. (just east of Metcalf) 816-701-HURT (4878) Childrensmercy.org/BlueValley

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At Saint Luke’s South Hospital, we’ll ensure those first moments are unforgettable For this special occasion, count on us.

From our nurse midwife program guiding natural childbirth to high-tech care for high-risk pregnancies, our maternity experts will make your birthing experience as comfortable, secure, and joyous as possible.

Our spacious birthing suites let you deliver, recover, and remain in the same room your entire stay. You’ll spend those first days bonding with your newborn without interruptions—the way it should be.

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Learn more: saintlukeshealthsystem.org/SouthBaby Schedule a tour: 913-317-7890