WFM May 2010 by Wichita Family

student and teacher highlights from our partners at Wichita Public Schools

Family WICHITA



WichitaFamily.com l MAY 2010

writing a new chapter Finding family through foster care

Summer Learning Educational family programs around the city

Inside: Family Dining Deals at affordable prices

STUDENT AND

TEACHER HIGHLIGH TS FROM

Family

OUR PA RTNERS AT WICH ITA PUBL IC SCHO OLS

WIC HITA

contents WichitaFamily.com

inside

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l MAY 2010

MAY 2010

WRITING NEW CH A APTER

Finding family through foster

care

SUMMER LE

Educatio ARNI around nal family pro NG gra grram the city mss y.

Music matters

FAMILY INSIDE: DI AT AFFONING DEALS RD PRICESABLE

What’s the Deal with Private Lessons?

Writing a new chapter Finding family through foster care

Early intervention for your child Getting help early could be a life-changing event for your infant or toddler

Financial Foundations Saving for a child’s education.

Summer Learning Opportunities

ALSO:

Educational family programs around Wichita

NEWS FROM OUR PARTNERS AT USD 259...........................................14 CHILDCARE DIRECTORY..............20 CLASSIFIED ADS............................21 KIDS KORNER.................................22

COVER: PHOTOGRAPHY BY GINGEROOT STUDIOS

4 Wichita Family | MAY 2010

www.WichitaFamily.com

Music Mat t ers

We know kids learn in the environment described above and they can attain a certain level of proficiency, given they play more than just a couple of years. They can, however, experience more success, and do it quicker with private instruction. In addition, since there are very few school music piano and guitar programs, private lessons are the way to become proficient at these instruments. There are many resources for finding a private teacher. School music teachers are usually tuned in to the private teaching community and can make recommendations. Some school music teachers will supplement their income by teaching privately, as well. College and university students often teach oncampus and off. Music stores, like Senseney Music, maintain teaching studios during store hours. Some private teachers will come to your home, but most will teach in their home or another facility. Most lessons are a half-hour, once a week at a set, scheduled time. Lesson fees can vary, but in Wichita the rates are generally $15-$25 per half hour. Professional teachers (those who make their living teaching students) should and www.WichitaFamily.com

President , Senseney Music, Inc.

What’s the Deal with Private Lessons?

f you can for a moment, picture your child’s band or orchestra room at school. Say the room is full of 25 beginners, all on five or more different instruments. The instruments are alike in some ways, but different in many more. They’re put together differently and sound is produced differently. A note on flute music is different from the same-pitched note on a trumpet because of how the instruments are tuned. Some instruments read treble clef, some bass clef, and violas read in alto clef! All of these variables and there is one teacher at the front of the room teaching all of it. Kids are amazingly resourceful and the teachers are trained on all of the different instruments, but you can imagine how difficult it is for students to progress on an instrument when there is one teacher and only so much time during school. This is where private lessons come into play.

do charge more, but they are often very proficient players who have performance degrees in their instrument and will have the training and experience to best help your student succeed. Private instruction can be rewarding for your child. They will be exposed to literature and techniques specifically for their instrument. Good practice

by Lori Supinie

and playing habits will be learned and reinforced every week. Recitals are often part of a private teacher’s studio so students become comfortable performing in front of others. Most kids find it a source of pride to successfully master a piece of music. Finally, lessons are not just for the naturally talented kids; they’re for all students who want to play better and enjoy music more!

You get more than The Music COMMITMENT To consistently provide the highest level of professional service.

EXPERIENCE Staff with creativity, sensitivity and experience to anticipate your needs and provide effective solutions.

SELECTION Large inventory to provide quick service. Carefully selected to provide the best quality.

Band & Orchestral Instruments Print Music & Accessories Pianos • Guitars • Drum Sets Music Lessons • Instrument Repair

2300 E. Lincoln Wichita, KS 67211 1-800-362-1060 316-262-1487 www.senseneymusic.com

Wichita Family | MAY 2010

editor’s note

Family WICHITA



Publisher: For the Families, LLC 316.295.8465 Publishers Eric and Christy Clark Editor Jessica Lindsey Advertising inquiries contact: 316.295.8465 sales@wichitafamily.com Wichita Family Magazine is published 12 times a year by For the Families, LLC. Wichita Family Magazine is available free, at schools, stores, restaurants, libraries, retailers and local attractions, as well as other places families frequent. For a complete list of where to find Wichita Family, or for subscription rates, visit www.wichitafamily.com. Mailing address: P.O. Box 817 Wichita, Kansas 67201 How to reach us: Phone: 316.295.8465 Email: publisher@wichitafamily.com Copyright 2009 by For the Families, LLC. All rights reserved. Wichita Family Magazine is not responsible for errors, omissions or contest fulfillment from third parties. Reproduction in part or in whole without written permission is strictly prohibited. Wichita Family is distributed free of charge. The magazine’s advertisers make this possible, so support them! We reserve the right to edit submitted material. All submissions will be considered for publication, but we reserve the right to refuse material. Materials will not be returned. Any editorial content or advertising published is the property of For the Families, LLC.

appy Mother's Day to all of you moms out there! What a great thing to celebrate, if I do say so myself! I became a mother on Mother's Day in 2003. On May 11 at 2:12 in the afternoon I gave birth to our first child, a 7 lb. 11 oz. boy named Corbin. It was a pretty great gift to receive and it was a great gift to give my mom. Corbin is somewhat of a picky eater, but not in a conventional way. He loves celery but gags at the texture of most chicken nuggets. He won’t eat most pizza, especially homemade pizza, because the cheese doesn’t taste right. He will, however, dip Chinese General’s Chicken in sweet and sour sauce and devour an entire serving without taking a breath. Figure that one out! In this issue we’ve revamped our Cheap Eats list which provides families with locations where kids eat free or at a discounted price on any given day of the week. It works great for us when we’re looking to try a new place knowing we have a kid who has a picky palate. I spent a lot of time updating our annual Cheap Eats list and learned of a lot of new deals here in the Wichita area. Many calls were made to track down new deals and confirm information on existing deals at area restaurants but there is always a possibility that I missed one here or there. Drop me a line at jessica@ wichitafamily.com or comment on our Facebook fan page and tell me if you know of a kid’s night or family deal that we left out. This issue also includes some ideas for keeping your child’s brain active during the summer. Local mom Erika Marie tells us about some of the learning opportunities that are available in Wichita. In the June issue we’ll offer more ideas for keeping your kids busy while keeping your sanity and your budget in tact during the summer months. No matter where in the Wichita area you live, there are countless options just minutes from your house. jl

6 Wichita Family | MAY 2010

www.WichitaFamily.com

Mommy memories from Mother's Day Wichita mom A shley Sears describes her be st Mother’s Day gift:

my Kear Wichita mom A er’s Day: th o M d n co se r e describes h

ge, moved across ia rr ca is m a ad h ar, I’d onth-old “Earlier in the ye iends (with a 6-m fr y m om fr ay ng to the country aw and was struggli e om h at ay st to baby), quit work day. keep going day by ay. He y like Mother’s D da y er ev d te ea tr e for My husband to sleep, sending m e m ti a tr ex f, el ys n for gave me time to m ts and appreciatio en m li p m co of ts lo , massages, giving y of Mother’s Day da al tu ac e th n O , etc. me raising our son lives, got BOTH of om m y m e er h w s City s then he took us to Kansa cials and pedicure fa s, ge sa as m r fo us gift certificates movie.” , shopping and a ch n lu to f of s u t n se

www.WichitaFamily.com

“Two years ago on Mother’s Day, m y husband gave me a housecl eaning service on ce a month for an entire year. F or a mom of three small children, it was the best gif t for which a mom could ask! Two years later, my housecleaner st ill comes once a month—and I look forward to th at day every month with great anticipation!”

Wichita mom S e recalls her funn rena Hanson iest Mother’s Day gift: “I am the mother of four amazing chil dren: Shawn, 9, Derek , 7, Chloe, 6, and Sarah, 4. When my sons were 4 and 2 year s old, I mentioned to my h usband that I wou ld love to have homemade stepping stones w ith their footprints in the ce ment. I’m not sure what happened, but this is what I received (see ph oto), a pair of ‘foot ’ stepping stones. I still hav e not received my dream stepping stones, an d now my childre n are all too big. But every time I look at the ‘feet’ in our garden, I remembe r that Mother’s D ay and the effort it must h ave taken for my h usb to make these step ping stones with th and e help of our two little boys .”

Wichita Family | MAY 2010

Writing a new chapter:

Finding family through foster care

Life is not always a perfect fairy tale, but you can always write a new chapter and change your life, your family's life or a child's life.

Arla and Monte Vavra, Wichita area parents, did just that by following a unique path that began with adoption, then fostering and back again.

They adopted two daughters who were three and five when they permanently joined the Vavra family. Nearly a decade later, it became clear that the girls’ life in foster care inspired a whole new chapter in the lives of the Vavra family after their daughter saw a commercial for foster families on television. “She told me she wanted to help kids like people had helped her,” said Arla. The Vavras felt as long as the kids would

be in a safe place it would be worth the effort and began the training and licensing process. Many children have passed through their doors since.

The Vavras recently adopted two more children in their care who were not able to be returned home, and continue to be foster parents for many more kids.

“We try to show the children what it’s like to live in a regular family,” said Arla. “They get to have healthy food everyday and a warm, clean place to sleep at night. They learn that kids make mistakes and that consequences don’t involve getting beaten or bruised.”

There are many caring foster and adoptive homes across Wichita just like the Vavras. May is National Foster Care Appreciation Month and these parents deserve a big “thank you” for their dedication to creating happy endings in the lives of children in need!

When a child reintegrates with the birth family or moves to a different resource home, it’s always tough for the Vavras, foster parents with Youthville, a nonprofit child welfare agency.

Youthville, one of the largest nonprofit child welfare agencies in Kansas, is desperately in need of more loving families to help care for teens, sibling groups and special needs youth. To find out more, informational meetings are held every Thursday at 6pm. To attend, call 316.529.9100 ext. 6194 or email info@youthville.org. For information on all Youthville services, visit www. youthville.org.

“We get attached to the kids,” said Arla. “But it means that you have formed a bond of trust with the child. What they need to know is that you love them and want the best for them.”

May is national foster parent month Celebrating the foster parents who help to create happy endings.

Foster Care | Adoption Counseling

EVERYONE HAS A STORY. w w w. y o u t h v i l l e s t o r y. c o m

Youthville needs foster parents for sibling groups, teens & special needs youth. Information meetings held weekly. Call 316.529.9100, ext. 8118 to register. 8 Wichita Family | MAY 2010

www.WichitaFamily.com

TIMETESTED FAMILY APPROVED! It’s getting tougher to make ends meet for our area families and for businesses. Now, more than ever, we need to be there to help. Reach customers who are looking to spend their money wisely with our affordable advertising rates. Call for details at 316-295-8465.

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Greater Wichita YMCA | Celebrating 125 Years We build strong kids, strong families, strong communities

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1 result found: Go Wichita Visitor Information Center Whether you’re experiencing the city for the ﬁrst time, or you’re a long-time resident, the Go Wichita Visitor Information Center has everything you need to know about what to see and do in Wichita. Discover attractions like the world-class Sedgwick County Zoo, the Old Cowtown Museum, and the Museum of World Treasures. Visit us at 515 S. Main or online at gowichita.com to plan your Wichita getaway.

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Wichita Family | MAY 2010

Summer Learning Educational family programs around Wichita

Story By Erika Marie Summer is the perfect time to kick up your feet, grab a cool glass of lemonade and relax. Many families devote this time to summer sports, a big or small family vacation, or a long honey-do list. While the kids enjoy a nice break from the day-to-day work of formal education, it doesn’t mean their brains should melt away with the ice cream on their tongues. This is a great time to build on what children have learned the past year and keep their minds sharp and ready for the school year to come. Thankfully, the greater Wichita area is bursting with opportunities for fun and learning for the whole family. In fact, Wichita was named a Playful City USA community with 93 other cities and towns in 2009 by the national nonprofit organization KaBOOM! Most of the play areas around the city focus on learning through play. Your kids can strengthen their muscles and keep their brains in tip-top shape at the same time. You can keep the learning part a secret though if you want.

Wichita Public Library 223 S. Main (316)261-8500 www.wichita.lib.ks.us One of the best ways to feed a child’s hunger for knowledge is through books. The Wichita Public Library’s Summer Reading program “Make a Splash”

10 Wichita Family | MAY 2010

and the Teens Read program “Make Waves” are fun ways to keep your kids reading and have fun in the process. They learn to set goals, achieve prizes from the library and community, and open their imaginations through the vast selection of children and young adult books. There are additional programs for young children and even teens with story time, crafts, book-themed parties (from “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” to “Twilight”), magicians, musicians, games, mystery parties and more. Stop by one of Wichita’s nine Library branches or their website for more information. Registration for the Summer Reading Program starts on May 28.

Exploration Place 300 N. McClean (316)660-0600 www.exploration.org Dive into the world of discovery at the Exploration Place. EP is full of exciting classes and programs that provide a hands-on experience into the real world of science. There are two- and five-day summer camp sessions starting at age 5 and going through 14. Each camp includes a general admission to the museum and lunch. Don’t miss out on Little Explorers Workshops for the wee scientists ages 2-5 and Saturday Explore Kids workshops for those with extra-special imaginations. If you’ve got an older child in grades 7-10 with their

head constantly in the clouds check out EP’s brand new summer Aviation Camp. Registration for EP educational workshops and programs opens two weeks before each session. Call or check out their website for registration details.

Wichita Art Museum 1400 W. Museum Blvd (316) 268-4921 www.wichitaartmuseum.org Let your child’s creative juices flow at the Wichita Art Museum. Each month offers different projects based on a new theme to develop a full experience and appreciation for art and creativity. Art Start draws the attention of budding 3-5 year old artists and focuses on basic age-appropriate skills with a new theme every two weeks. Family Artventures every fourth Saturday provides a flexible enrichment opportunity while touring through the museum’s galleries. WAM Kids Workshops give the older ones starting at age 6 a chance to hunt through the galleries looking for art, solving puzzles pertaining to the artwork and then making their own project related to the scavenger hunt. All classes are provided free of charge but make sure to register early to reserve a spot.

www.WichitaFamily.com

Wichita Gardens at Botanica 701 Amidon (316) 264-0448 www.botanica.org Cultivate a green thumb and an appreciation for gardening in the beautiful gardens of Botanica. Get to know your garden animals every Tuesday at the Creature Feature program. The gardens are always exciting on Funday Fridays and Saturday Family Fun days with stories, games, and special activities for each session’s garden-related topic. Garden Sprouts invites you and your preschool-aged

child (3 to 5) to explore nature together. Bring home garden-inspired creations to your own garden at the Garden Gizmos class on Thursdays. Stop by the front desk on your next trip through the gardens, call, or visit their webpage for more information and registration. While you’re there, check out the plans for the new Children’s Garden opening in the Spring of 2011. Sedgwick County Zoo – 5555 Zoo Blvd – (316)660-WILD – www.scz.org For a wild adventure the Zoo is the place to be. Each child will pick up at least one new fact on a stroll through one of the country’s largest zoos right here in Wichita. The SC Zoo’s Cargill Learning

Center offers an exciting selection of learning adventures for different ages from the tiniest one-year-old to an older ‘tween.’ Along with the classes, children can join the SC Zoo Kids Club, earn zoo points and be entered into drawings after participating in various activities at the Zoo. Visit the website or stop by the membership office on your next zoological expedition for a calendar and registration form of summer programs and activities.

Wichita Department of Park and Recreation 455 N. Main (316) 268-4361 www.wichita.gov/CityOffices/Park The seven recreation centers of Wichita’s Park and Recreation Department offer an assortment of classes along with the Summer of Discovery ten-week summer program. This program offers children ages 6-13 a full day of recreational and educational activities on site and off site based on different weekly themes Monday through Friday starting March 28 and going through August 6. A select group of the rec centers will also offer similar fun-filled, half-day Summer Activity Camps. Call your nearest center or stop by the main office for more information and registration.

Great Plains Nature Center 6232 E. 29th St - (316)-6835499 – www.gpnc.org In cooperation with Wichita’s Department of Park and Recreation and the Kansas and U.S. Departments of Fish and Wildlife and Parks, Great Plains Nature Center provides a unique opportunity to explore and learn about nature and its abundant resources. A stroll through the nature center will inspire responsible appreciation and use of the environment. GPNC hopes to serve the community as an educational resource for conservation. Children and adults can learn about the miracle of nature together through the center’s various year-round family programs and special summer camps, nature-inspired crafts, fishing clinics, wild-life exploration and pre-school programs. Call or visit the office or website for more information and reservations.

12 Wichita Family | MAY 2010

www.WichitaFamily.com

&MÅSIOLÅ=BCF>ÅB;JJSÅCHÅM=BIIF To reach their potential, some children need a different kind of classroom: A classroom of one. K12 is America’s largest online education provider for grades K through 12, with programs proven to work for children who aren’t thriving in a traditional school. K12’s award-winning curriculum is individualized, so your child can learn at just the right pace. Every subject is delivered online, with hands-on activities, plus books and support from expert teachers.

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News and information from our partners at Wichita Public Schools Dodge student wins Tot Trot t-shirt contest

East students help out in the community Jessica Arzola, art teacher at Dodge (LEFT), Jocelyn Scaia (CENTER), Tot Trot artwork winner and Janet Wright, Wichita Festivals, Inc. President/CEO. Scaia is wearing her winning t-shirt design.

Jocelyn Scaia, first-grade student at Dodge Literacy Magnet, had the winning t-shirt design for the Wichita River Festival’s Tot Trot. Her design was chosen from more than 2,700 entries. Wichita River Festival representatives and sponsors presented Scaia with a framed shirt featuring her winning design and a gift certificate. Photo caption: From left, freshmen Vanessa Ramirez, Danford Wineinger, Kyle Law and Markaila Townsend packaged meals to support earthquake victims in Haiti.

East students help out in the community Every student at East High School volunteered to improve their city during the second-annual ACES in the Community event on April 7. The students and staff took half the school day to be involved in many community service projects to help out the community. Students volunteered in more than 70 places throughout the Wichita area in a wide variety of service projects, including cleaning parks, working with residents in senior centers, helping out at hospitals, museums, churches and the Red Cross. Some students volunteered to help out schools in the district. Gordon Parks Academy, Washington, OK, Lincoln, Woodman, Cloud, Colvin, College Hill, Jefferson, Marshall, Anderson, Adams, Linwood, Jackson, Minneha and Spaght had East students help out in classrooms. Some students walked the neighborhoods to ask for canned goods and collected

14 Wichita Family | MAY 2010

698 pounds of food to be donated to the Kansas Food Bank. The entire school also collaborated to support earthquake victims in Haiti. The students collected more than $12,000 that was given to Numana Inc. and to IMA World Health. More than 330 students worked in the school gym to package more than 95,000 meals for Numana, Inc., to feed earthquake victims. “It feels really good to get involved because I like helping people,” said freshman Markaila Townsend. “I am really proud of our school because everyone is volunteering and helping our community.” The purpose of ACES in the Community is for students and staff to work together to advocate for themselves, each other, and those in the community who have needs.

Dodge’s art teacher, Jessica Arzola, also received a $100 gift certificate to support her classes. The school also received a framed shirt with Scaia’s design. This year, three winners were chosen from each division: kindergarten, first-grade and second-grade, with Scaia selected the overall winner of those nine. All the division winners received a gift certificate. Other winners from the Wichita Public Schools include Stanley Nguyen, Lily Fotz and Olivia Wessley, all from Seltzer Elementary in the kindergarten category. Lluvia Escalante, Woodland; Isabella Snider and Alyssa Sihapanya, Seltzer Elementary were selected for the second-grade category. Seltzer was awarded $400 for having the most entries. Minneha Core Knowledge Magnet received second place and Enterprise Elementary placed third for number of entries. www.WichitaFamily.com

Price-Harris students make Pennies from Heaven video Five Price-Harris students are helping four-legged friends by teaching others about the Kansas Humane Society. The fifth-grade students, Bailey Baker, Katlin Amos, Katrina Ly, Tarik Aginar and Alex Fullerton, created a video about the Kansas Humane Society. The students tell how KHS cares for and supports homeless pets, tell how to adopt a pet, and show the different services KHS provides. The students helped write, shoot and edit the video and are the video’s hosts. The video is being be used in the Kansas Humane Society’s Pennies From Heaven campaign. The video is posted on the Kansas Human Society website, http://kshumane.org/help_ pennies.html.

Photo caption: From left, Price-Harris students Bailey Baker, Katlin Amos, Katrina Ly, Tarik Aginar and Alex Fullerton created the Kansas Humane Society’s Pennies from Heaven video.

David Dennis, Jr. receives Excellence in Public Service Award

Wichita Public Schools— Expecting and Delivering Excellence

Increased student achievement and preparation of young people for success in a diverse world are over-arching priorities for the Wichita Public Schools. Our district features: • Schools of choice • Rich diversity • Student connectedness • Quality teachers • Top academic honors in KS • Safe school environment

David Dennis, Jr., business teacher at North High School, is the recipient of the 2010 Excellence in Public Service Award. The award is given to an employee of the Wichita Public Schools, the City of Wichita and Sedgwick County who shows excellence in their job responsibilities and who is actively involved in the community. Dennis was surprised on April 15 in his classroom. Matthew Silverthorne, a fellow business teacher at North, nominated him for the award. Dennis is in the Transition to Teaching program, teaching full-time while taking college courses to obtain his teaching license. He teaches some of the most rigorous business courses and because of his business expertise, was asked by the district to develop the curriculum www.WichitaFamily.com

on Computer Systems and Financial Management that every high school in the district uses. He also supports extra-curricular activities at North and is active in several community organizations.

• New and renovated facilities • Business partnerships • Education EDGE Foundation

“I think it’s very important to be involved and to give back to your community,” said Dennis. “I often tell my students that they should help out the community by giving of their time. Our community needs our support.” To read more about Dennis’ accomplishments, go to the Wichita Public Schools website at www. usd259.com/news/awards/Excellenc e+in+Public+Service+Awards. Dennis’ father, David Dennis, Sr., received the Excellence in Public Service Award in 2008.

For more information contact us by phone at 316-973-4515 or visit us online: www.usd259.com

Wichita Family | MAY 2010

Wichita Family Magazine’s

Monday

Kids Eat Free (or cheap)

Red Robin

The Waterfront: 9990 E. 13th Street, 67206. 425-6300. 5 to 8 p.m. Free shakes for kids and there is a balloon artist.

Buffalo Wild Wings

3236 North Rock Road, Suite 190, 67226. 636-9464. $.99 kids meal with adult purchase. (1 child per adult)

Cholita’s

8987 W. Central Ave., 67212. 722-3711 Kids eat free with adult purchase. (1 child per adult)

Shorty Smalls

12112 W. Maple, # 115, 67235. 773-0900. Kids eat free all day.

Player’s Sports Bar & Grill 6200 W. 21st St. N., 67205. 942-7900. After 5 p.m. one child eats free per adult.

Pacific Coast Pizza

7730 E. 37th Street North, 67226. 201-4743. One child eats free per paying adult after 4 p.m.

Monterrey Mexican Grill

5905 W. Kellogg Drive, 67209. 943-1082. Kids eat for $1.99.

PaPa John’s

7800 E. Harry St., 67207. 651-5800 5231 E. Central, 67208. 686-4112 7777 E. 21st St. No., Ste. 140, 67206. 685-7272. 430 S. Andover Rd., Andover, 67002. 733-7373. 220 W. Douglas Ave., Ste. 7272, 67202. 264-7272. 2530 S. Seneca, 67217. 267-7272. 5000 South Broadway, 67216. 524-7272. 625 N. Rock Rd., Derby, 67037. 788-7272. 8401 McCormick St., 67209. 729-5959. 8918 W. 21st St., 67205. 729-8000. Large 1-topping pizza for $5.99. Order online at www.papajohns.com using code 599MONDAY. Carryout only.

Tuesday Fazoli’s

8529 W. Central Ave., 67212. 721-1011. 3553 N. Rock Road, 67225. 634-1855. 5 to close $.99 kids meal with adult purchase.

Applebee’s

996 E. Connelly Court, Park City, KS 67219. 744-8484. 10728 W. 21st Street North, Wichita, KS 67205. 7292777. 6730 W. Central, Wichita, KS 67212. 942-0070. 2035 North Rock Road, Suite 101, Wichita, KS 67206. 652-0234. 4760 South Broadway, Wichita, KS 67216. 522-5525. 436 S. Andover Road, Andover, KS 67002. 733-9447. 1245 N. Rock Road, Derby, KS 67037. 788-7775. $ .99 kids meals dine-in only, all day with the purchase of an adult entree.

Jason’s Deli

7447 W. 21st St. N., #144, 67205. 721-4993. Bradley Fair: 2000 N. Rock Road, #108, 67206. 6364447. Kids eat free with paying adult after 5 p.m.

Cortez Mexican Restaurant 344 W. 29th St. N., 67204. 832-0640. Free kids meal with adult purchase.

Green Mill 549 S. Rock Road., 67207. 687-6455. Kids eat free after 4 to 7 p.m. (4 kids to 1 adult purchase)

16 Wichita Family | MAY 2010

Two Brother’s BBQ

8406 W. Central Ave., 67212. 729-7755. 3750 N. Woodlawn, #102, 67220. 691-8950. Free kids meal or kids buffet, includes drink, all day, all locations. (1 child per adult)

Granite City

2661 N. Maize Road, 67205. 721-8500. This location only. Kids under 12 eat free 5 p.m. to close.

Pizza Hut Italian Bistro

3960 N. Maize Road, Maize, 67101. 721-6979. Kids eat free with paying adult.

Taco Tico

All Wichita area locations. Kids get a free kids meal with the purchase of an adult combo meal after 5 p.m.

Wednesday Cortez Mexican Restaurant 344 W. 29th St. N., 67204. 832-0640. Free kids meal with adult purchase.

Timberline

8310 E. 21st St. N., 67206. 687-2277. East side only : Free meal, including a drink, after 4 p.m. An arts and crafts table is available.

Doc Green’s

The Waterfront: 10096 E. 13th St. N., #102, 67206. 636-8997. New Market Square: 2441 N. Maize Rd., 67205. Kids eat free 5 to 9 p.m. (1 child per adult)

Saturday Denny’s

5700 W. Kellogg Dr., 67209. 942-9662. This location only: 4 to 10 p.m. kids eat free. (2 children per adult)

Mr. Goodcents

10231 W. 21st Street North, 67205. 773-3444. This location only: $2.99 kids meals, dine in only.

Sunday Souper Salad

8007 E. Kellogg Dr., 67207. 686-4054. All day, children 4 to 12 years eat for $2.49 (reg $3.49). Children ages 3 and under are free.

Granite City

2661 N. Maize Road, 67205. 721-8500. 2244 N. Webb Road, 67226. 636-5050. Kids under 12 eat free 5 p.m. to close.

Every day of the week

Buffalo Wild Wings

Hometown Buffet

Taco Tico

Ryan’s

New Market Square: 2413 N. Maize Road, Suite 105, 67205. 722-9464. $.99 kids meal with adult purchase. (1 child per adult) All Wichita area locations. Kids get a free kids meal with the purchase of an adult combo meal after 5 p.m.

Jose Peppers

11423 E. 13th Street North, 67206. 260-6404. Kids eat for $1.99 all day. Ages 12 and under.

Thursday Applebee’s

996 E. Connelly Court, Park City, KS 67219. 744-8484. 10728 W. 21st Street North, Wichita, KS 67205. 729-2777. 6730 W. Central, Wichita, KS 67212. 942-0070. 2035 North Rock Road, Suite 101, Wichita, KS 67206. 652-0234. 4760 South Broadway, Wichita, KS 67216. 522-5525. 436 S. Andover Road, Andover, KS 67002. 733-9447. 1245 N. Rock Road, Derby, KS 67037. 788-7775. $ .99 kids meals dine-in only, all day.

Granite City

2244 N. Webb Road, 67226. 636-5050. This location only. Kids under 12 eat free 5 p.m. to close.

Friday Denny’s

5700 W. Kellogg Dr., 67209. 942-9662. This location only: 4 to 10 p.m. kids eat free. (2 children per adult)

6820 W. Central Ave., 67212. 942-4334. Children ages 2-3 are .99, 4-7 are $2.99 and 8-12 are $4.99 for lunch and dinner. 3323 N. Rock Road, 67226. 636-9329. Children 3 and under free. 4 to 8 years are $3.99. 9 to 12 years are $4.99. Drinks are included.

Cici’s Pizza

8320 W. Central Ave., 67212. 773-1782. 6505 E. 37th St. N., 67226. 683-2559. 3109 S. Seneca, 67217. 260-3360. 11333 E. Kellogg, 67207. 683-2424. Kids 3 and under eat free all day. Kids ages 4 to 10 are $2.99 all day. Drink is not included in the price.

Denny’s

4024 E. Harry, 67218. 683-8362. 8030 E. Kellogg Dr., 67207. 682-1008. Not available at the West Kellogg location. Kids eat free all day, every day. (1 child per adult)

Logan’s Roadhouse

353 S. Rock Road, 67207. 685-6000. 2424 N. Maize Road, 67205. 729-6900. Monday-Wednesday: Kids eat for $2.99 all day long. Thursday-Sunday: Kids eat for $2.99 from 3 to 6 p.m.

Shorty Smalls

12112 W. Maple, # 115, 67235. 773-0900. Eat like an employee with the Owner’s Club program. $14.95 per month gives one specific person half-off a soda, appetizer, entree and dessert up to twice every single day. Add a card for an additional family member for $11. Depending on what you eat this could pay for itself in a trip or two.

www.WichitaFamily.com www.WichitaFamily.com

www.WichitaFamily.com

Wichita Family | APRIL 2010

Early intervention for your infant or toddler

could be life changing

hile his older brother went to school and his sister took center stage of most activities, Alay was content to allow his family members to attend to his every need. At 12 months, he was barely sitting up and had no words. At his regular check up, his doctor recommended that his mother contact Rainbows for a developmental evaluation. Alay was evaluated within the month and his developmental delays qualified him for home visits from early childhood professionals through Rainbows’ Infant/ Toddler Services. Amy Foster, Physical Therapist visited Alay and his mom at their home and as primary lead team member. She talked with her team of early childhood special education teacher and speech therapist then developed a plan to help bring Alay up to meet the developmental milestones of his age. “When I first met Alay, he really wasn’t walking or talking,” said Foster. She set out to help his mom track his words and develop his gross motor skills. After just six months of visits with Foster, based on his need, Alay is running around the family’s front room, kicking a ball and his words have increased. His mother, Maria beams when she talks about the progress he has made in such a short amount of time. “It’s been amazing to see him take off,” said Maria. “I didn’t realize that he had the delays and once I was connected to Rainbows’ I learned many ways to help my son.” Alay is quickly catching up with skills appropriate for his age and is developing many more words. His mother is thankful that caring professionals are able to come to their home on her day off to help the family succeed. Next Alay will work on jumping and running. His mother is writing down his new words and listening to hear him put words together into sentences. “By working with the parents so closely in the Primary Coach model, we are able to help the child succeed in their natural environment and work with

18 Wichita Family | MAY 2010

items that are common in the family’s home,” says Foster. “I talk often with my team, who are specialists in speech, development and other specialties and take those ideas out to the home with me. It’s quite a reward to see a child thrive in their home environment as they make progress in strength, speech and other areas.” As a member of the Infant/Toddler Services team, Foster sees the 24 children on her caseload based on their needs. When her special skills as a physical therapist are needed on site, Foster will attend a joint visit with a speech therapist or an early childhood special education teacher. “We learn so much from each other, and are able to help young children get a good start in life,” said Lee “Paco” Price, Sedgwick County Infant/Toddler Services Coordinator for Rainbows. Price oversees 35 early childhood professionals who serve more than 900 children in Sedgwick County every year. Kara Knight’s 14 month old, son Reece wasn’t talking much and used a lot of pointing and grunting to communicate his needs. He was often frustrated when his parents didn’t know what he wanted. When Rainbows’ Butler

County Infant/Toddler Services speech therapist, Kim Stewart came to their home, the family learned more sign language to communicate and helped them incorporate language into their daily lives. Stewart suggested things like naturally naming body parts when putting on lotion or taking a bath to make learning fun for the family instead of quizzing as part of homework. “After just four months, Reece now has at least 50 words, and is starting to say words spontaneously. He still uses sign language and has started saying 2 syllable words and his words are clearer, said mom Kara. “He is also doing a lot more imitation of words and actions. He seems happier now that he can communicate easier and we understand what he wants. Rainbows helped us communicate with our son and we greatly appreciate it.” “By helping the family be involved in the progress and goals, everyone wins,” says Susan Harsh, Butler County Infant/Toddler Service Coordinator who oversees eight staff serving nearly 200 children under age three across the state’s largest geographical county. “Parents know their child best and can help them reach goals and accomplish many things alongside an www.WichitaFamily.com www.WichitaFamily.com

early childhood professional who helps guide the family towards resources and appropriate therapies.” “This approach is successful because everyday activities support the child’s best learning opportunities,” said Debbie Mai, Vice President of Programs and Services. “This occurs through regular visits by a team of early childhood specialists who support the child and their family, by improving a child’s growth and development.” At 15 months Juli was not walking and only standing on one leg occasionally. She was behind in development

and her parents were trying different tactics to help her overcome the delay when they noticed Juli had one leg and foot much smaller than the other. After months of testing and waiting for specialists, Juli was finally diagnosed with a neurological disorder and took her first steps at 19 months. While waiting, Juli and her family were connected with Rainbows’ Infant/ Toddler Services in Butler County, which she qualified for right away. “The evaluations, treatment plan and therapy that was provided, put Juli on the right track in the critical months of

her development,” says Juli’s mom Ame Brubaker-Bourque. Families with a concern regarding their infant or toddler’s development, may contact Infant/Toddler Services at (316) 267-5437 ext. 123 in Sedgwick County and (316) 320-1342 in Butler County. Children who qualify may receive one or more of the 16 early intervention services, depending on each child’s specific need, at no cost to the family. Services are funded through federal and state sources in support of children birth to age three. In Kansas this program is named tiny-k.

Financial Foundations on Education Savings

Childhood, as we all know, is a time to be cherished. Carefree afternoons at the park and the pool. Playing with friends. Celebrating birthdays. It’s also a time of learning, as in learning to walk, learning the alphabet and learning to ride a bike. And before long, those early and simpler lessons give way to the more complex, as in solving mathematical equations, conducting science experiments and writing compositions. As much as we may not want to admit it, the innocence of our children’s youth passes much too quickly, and as parents it’s never too soon for us to help them prepare for their future - especially when it comes to saving for their education. A few of your savings options are introduced here:

UGMA (Uniform to Minors Act) & UTMA (Uniform Transfers to Minors

Act) x A custodial account that allows you to transfer or gift assets to a minor without setting up a trust. x The custodian can make withdrawals from the account for any purpose, and isn’t limited in using the funds. x Friends and family may contribute (up www.WichitaFamily.com

to $13,000 a person each year free of gift tax) to the child’s account.

Coverdell Education Savings Account x Coverdell ESAs allow you to invest

$2,000 per year, per child up to age 18, to save for educational expenses. x Other family members can set up Coverdell ESAs in your child’s name. x The funds may be used to cover costs associated with attending elementary or secondary school, be in public, private or religious. Covered costs include uniforms, computers and transportation.

Section 529 College Savings Plan x There are no income restrictions on the

Please remember that the investments inside of these savings options involve risk, including the possible loss of principal. Investors should consider the investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses associated with 529 plans carefully before investing. More information about 529 plans is available in the issuers official statement, which should be read carefully before investing. The availability of tax or other benefits may be conditioned on meeting certain requirements. For information on this topic or other financial questions please contact us today! Waddell & Reed Member SIPC 811 E. 30th, Ste E Hutchinson, KS 67502 620-669-8291 waddell.com

account owner, and you - and anyone else - may contribute regularly in any amount you choose until a maximum balance per beneficiary is reached. x With the annual $13,000 gift tax exclusion (or $26,000 in case of a married couple) relatives or friends can donate substantial amounts to your 529 account without incurring any gift tax. x Earnings and qualified withdrawals on your account are federal income taxdeferred, enabling your money to poBill R. Kliewer H. Joe Kukula tentially increase faster than a comparaFinancial Advisor Financial Advisor This information should not be construed as investment or ble taxable account. State and local financial advice related to your personal situation. Please taxes may apply. consult with a financial advisor prior to making financial decisions.

Wichita Family | MAY 2010

CHILDCARE/SCHOOL DIRECTORY Kids Day Inn---a quality Christian Mom’s Day Out program at Westlink Christian Church 2001 N. Maize Road, Wichita 722-1034 x121. Based on the “Bee” Attitudes Classes for 2& 3 year olds Monday, Thursday OR Friday.

Success begins at an early age Call for a free consultation about your child’s development.

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Asbury Preschool: A high quality school. Readiness Program for children 3-5. For information call 942-1491.

Early Intervention Services

Kidslink Christian Preschool at Westlink Christian Church. 2001 N. Maize Road, Wichita 7221034. Excellence in Early Childhood Education from a Christian Perspective. Developmentally appropriate ½ day sessions for 3, 4, & 5 year olds. Character Building, Christian Values, Qualified Staff, Safe Loving Environment. Enrollment for Fall 2010. n Piano lessons Noah’s Ark Child Care Center and Preschool, 6100 W. Maple St. Wichita 943-2088. Located inside Central Community Church. Caring for children 2 ½ to 7yrs. Biblical and Preschool Curriculum…. SRS approved CHECK US OUT ON THE WEB: http://www.centralcommunity.org/ noahsark/index.html

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Offer Childcare services? Connect with families instantly by advertising in our childcare directory for as little as $30/month. Contact us at sales@wichitafamily.

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20 Wichita Family | MAY 2010

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Travel/Vacation Vacations, weekend getaways or a trip of a lifetime. Contact Doug Foster Travel 316-617-8683 or 800-240-7142 www.dougsfuntrips.com cruise specialist. All major cruise lines, resorts, Disney, Universal Studios and more!

Midwest Classified Network READER NOTICE: This publication will never knowingly accept any advertisement that is illegal or considered fraudulent. If you have questions or doubts about any ads on these pages, we advise that before responding or sending money ahead of time, you check with the local Attorney General’s Consumer Fraud Line and/or Better Business Bureau. Also be advised that some phone numbers published in these ads may require an extra charge. This publication cannot be held responsible for any negative consequences that occur as a result of you doing business with these advertisers. HELP WANTED! Data Entry positions available online! Internet needed. Income is Guaranteed! No experience required. Start today! www.datacashpro. com (VOID IN SD) (MCN) BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY: ALL CASH VENDING! Do you earn $800 in a day? Your own local candy route. Includes 25 Machines and Candy All for $9,995. 1-888-614-1179 (NOT VALID IN SD) (MCN) BAD CREDIT? Need to Make Money? Try Our At Home Business. We Supply Start-up FUNDS! Call Now!! 1-877-465-8463 (VOID IN SD) (MCN) WANT TO ADVERTISE TO THE MIDWEST? Place your classified ads in the Midwest Classified Network anytime online at www.midwestfreeclassifieds. com(MCN) AIRLINES ARE HIRING – Train for high paying Aviation Career. FAA approved program. Financial aid if qualified - Job placement assistance. CALL Aviation Institute of Maintenance 866-231-7177. (MCN) DISH Network. Best Offer Ever! $19.99/mo for 12 months, 100+ Channels. FREE Standard Professional Installation- up to 6 rooms (with Agreement). Over $400 New Customer Sign-up BONUS. Call Now! 1-877-478-1894 (MCN) Donate your Car Truck or Boat to HERITAGE FOR THE BLIND Free 3 Day Vacation, Tax Deductible, Free Towing, All Paperwork Taken Care Of. 1-877212-0046 (MCN)

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Contact us today! We have Nannies waiting! (316) 771-7557 nannydeeandme@live.com nannydeeandme.com Wichita Family | MAY 2010

Getting the Country Active COLORING PICTURE

In 1956, a study came out that revealed American children were not as physically fit as European children. Many Americans were concerned about this, including President Dwight D. Eisenhower, who founded the President’s Council on Youth Fitness to deal with the issue. The council worked hard to get Americans up and moving. It set up an awards program and helped establish National Physical Fitness and Sports Month in May. Although its name has changed, the President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports continues to lead the charge in keeping Americans active and physically fit. Bravo!

Jokes & Riddles Q: What do you call a pig that plays basketball? A: A ball hog.

Q: What do a baseball team and pancakes have in common? A: They both need a good batter!

NAME•THAT •SPORT Most sports require some type of equipment, even if it is just a ball. Write in the name of the sport for which the piece of equipment pictured is needed.

Sports Safety Challenge FACT OR FICTION?

_______________

Answers: 1) Basketball, 2) Tennis, 3) Baseball, 4) Figure skating

Do you like sports? Do you play on any teams? Whether you play for fun or competitively, you need to be safe. How much do you know about sports safety? Take this quiz and find out. 1) You should get a physical before playing a sport. Fact or Fiction? 2) You should play with kids your size. Fact or Fiction? 3) You should participate in any preseason training offered. Fact or Fiction?

What Rhymes with…

4) You should use the proper safety equipment, including a helmet and eye protection, if needed. Fact or Fiction? 5) You should repair or replace damaged equipment. Fact or Fiction? 6) You should buy equipment you can grow into. Fact or Fiction?

8) You should take the time to warm up, stretch and cool down after every game. Fact or Fiction? 9) You should drink plenty of soda to stay hydrated. Fact or Fiction? 10) You should never let an injury stop you from playing. Fact or Fiction?

Answers: 1) Fact, 2) Fiction, you should play with kids your age, 3) Fact, 4) Fact, 5) Fact, 6) Fict ion, you should buy equipment that fits—poorly fitting equipment can lead to injuries, 7) Fiction, you should not borrow equipment unless it fits you well, 8) Fact, 9) Fiction, you should drink water—soda will dehy drate you, 10) Fiction, you should stop playing the moment you become injured and return to the field only when your doctor tells you to

22 Wichita Family | MAY 2010

List 10 words that rhyme with “dash.”

10.

Some answers: ash, bash, cash, gash, hash, lash, mash, rash, sash, slash

7) You should borrow a friend’s equipment if you forget yours. Fact or Fiction?

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