KC Parent March 2025

FREE | MARCH 2025 | KCPARENT.COM

KC’s #1

CAMP GUIDE!

Your family’s story starts here.

At Liberty Hospital Birthing Center, we know when women and babies are healthy, everyone benefits. From our free childbirth and parenting classes to our team of obstetrics and pediatric specialists, lactation experts and more, we’re here to support you through pregnancy, birth and early parenthood.

Our warm and welcoming facilities are equipped with state-of-the-art technology, comfortable amenities and a neonatal NICU – all to ensure we are ready to meet your needs around the clock. For a birthing center that combines high-quality expertise with a premier experience for you and your family, choose Liberty Hospital.

libertyhospital.org/birthingcenter.

This is where health happens.

UNION STATION is Your Spring Break Destination!

Opens March 8 PRESENTED BY:

ARVIN

3 & 4 PM

G

PLANE

DAILY SHOWINGS: ARVIN

GOTTLIEB

P L A N E TA R I U M

FULL DETAIL S AT UNION STATIO N.ORG

MARCH 2025

IN EVERY ISSUE

CAMP GUIDE, PGS. 30-40

FEATURES

10

5 Things

12

Date Night

14

Dear Teacher

16

Tasty Treats

17

Craft Corner

19

Word from Dad

20

Reading Recess

23

Park Jaunts

26

Pair & Share

41

Marvelous Museums

60

Six-Stop Tour

SPECIAL SECTIONS

27

42

46

St. Patrick’s Day

Digital Detox

KC Staycations

Celebrate with local

Tips and insights to put

No travel and still loads of

flavors and great fun!

tech in its rightful place.

fun for spring break in KC.

24

Party Guide

30

Camp Guide

52

Calendar of Events

FREE | MARCH 2025 | KCPARENT.COM

ON THE COVER Kansas City’s #1 Summer Camp Guide 30 Why Summer Camp? 34

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kcparent.com march 2025

KC’s #1

CAMP GUIDE!

c re ate h e re . th r ive ev erywhere.

SPR I N G DA N C E C ON C ER T and S e ni or C ap s t one s

M A RC H 6 - 8

APRIL 12- 13

AUD ITION S APRIL 11-12 PER FOR MA N CE S @

THE KAUFFMAN CENTER

JULY 25-26

A P RI L 3 - 5

M AY 2 AP RI L 1 7 - 1 9

EDITOR’SLETTER MARCH 2025 Publisher Michael Gimotty Michael@KCParent.com

B

ring on spring! After that long stretch in January when I wasn’t sure I’d ever leave my house again, the warmer temperatures and longer days of March are welcome! The rhythm of the seasons refreshes my soul.

I hope you’re ready to get out and get exploring, because Kansas City boasts so much to see and do! We have a lot to be proud of, from our football dynasty (that has a nice ring to it, eh?) to our worldclass venues.

Our pages are packed with ideas for how to thrive at home as well as explore around town. Are your kids too attached to screens? Lauren Greenlee outlines steps for a digital detox (pg. 42). You’ll also find great tips for enjoying a spring break staycation (pg. 46) and discovering global adventures right here in Kansas City (pg. 50).

Summer will be here soon with loads of fun all its own. Be sure to get a jump on planning with our Camp Guide, here in print or online. Visit KCParent.com for a plethora of additional ideas and follow us on social media for even more tips and inspiration.

In the meantime, hug your people and have a happy spring, Kansas City!

Associate Publisher Darrell Dean Darrell@KCParent.com Editor Lauri Clapper Lauri@FamilyMediaGroup.com Art Director Kim Tappan Tappan Design TappanDesign@Gmail.com Advertising Sales Darrell Dean Darrell@KCParent.com Digital Engagement Manager Halley Zitterkopf Halley@KCParent.com Copy Editor Kelsey Beck Kelsey@KCParent.com Intern Iris Enna Distribution To be added to our distribution list, email Distribution@KCParent.com

LOCAL CONTENT

Local Contributing Writers William Bartlett (Kansas City), Hannah Berry (Kansas City) Allie Cole (Lenexa), Julie Collett (Overland Park), Janelle Cumro-Sultzer (Manhattan), Lauren Greenlee (Olathe), Anna Hiestand (Blue Springs), Sarah Lyons (Olathe), Mia McCole (Peculiar), Alicia Mock (Overland Park), Kailyn Rhinehart (Warrensburg), Delena Soukup (Overland Park) Mailing Address 11937 W. 119th #335, Overland Park, KS 66213 913.782.3238 phone • 913.681.5139 fax OUR PRODUCTS FREE | MARCH 2025 | KCPARENT.COM

baby&

SINCE 2002

kc’s #1 family travel guide since 2010

maternity

JANUARY- MARCH 2025 | KCPARENT.COM

652

UNIQUE ATTRACTIONS

FOR TOTS TO PLAY

KC’s #1

CAMP GUIDE!

ALL THINGS

TOP PLACES

PREGNANCY

EVEN AFTER MISCARRIAGE

activities from A to Z

thrill-seeking adventures

PENGUIN FUN!

what’s new in 2024

experiences

.com

for every season

KC PARENT IS GIVING AWAY

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Member of:

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2 FAMILY 4-PACKS TO

DISNEY ON ICE FOR DETAILS AND TO ENTER, HEAD TO KCPARENT.COM.

Kansas City Parent Magazine is published 12 times a year by Family Media Group. It is distributed free of charge throughout the Kansas City area.

Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect KC Parent’s opinions.

No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written permission. Kansas City Parent Magazine does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. All photography and letters sent to KC Parent will be treated unconditionally assigned for publication and copyright purposes and are subject to unrestricted right to edit and comment editorially. KC Parent often includes websites that may be helpful to our readers. We verify each site prior to publication. However, content changes frequently. We encourage you to use caution and discretion when visiting a website.

Postmaster, please send changes to KC Parent, 11937 W. 119th #335, Overland Park, KS 66213

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KCPARENT.COM Even More Local Parenting Information, Articles, Events and Surprises

SEARCH KCPARENT.COM FOR MORE AFFORDABLE FUN IDEAS: 1. Spring Break Guide 2. Camp Guide 3. St. Patrick’s Day Fun Guide

4. Best of March 5. Egg Hunt Inspiration

SPOTLIGHT

SPRING BREAK It’s time to plan for spring break, and that means many terrific family fun outings, great classes for Kansas City kids and special spring break programs. Visit KCParent.com for your guide to have the best spring break ever!

6. Free Fun in Kansas City 7. Easter Fun Guide 8. Day Trips Across KC

kcparentmagazine KC Parent Magazine

TONS MORE ADVENTURES ONLINE! Follow KC Parent Magazine on social media to discover even more events, crafts and exclusive giveaways that you won’t want to miss!

9. Family Vacations Less Than a Tank of Gas from Kansas City 10. Free Fun in Kansas City

Like us on Facebook Facebook.com/KansasCityParent // Repin us on Pinterest Follow us on X @KCParent // Follow us on Instagram Instagram.com/KCParentMagazine Subscribe to our FREE e-newsletter at KCParent.com

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9

FIVETHINGS

Do You Really Know Your Family? Game

Anchor & Bloom Home is where the heart is—and sometimes, the heart needs a change!

Have you outgrown your current space? Time for something different? This locally grown real estate brokerage is led by a mom who was previously a marriage and family therapist. Their team is profoundly knowledgeable and service-oriented, as well as empathetic and understanding. It’s an incredible win when your heart is on the line!

AnchorBloom.com

There’s so much to learn about one another— and to giggle about along the way! Whether we play with immediate family, extended family or friends who are like family, this game has sparked great conversations and interesting insights! Amazon.com

5

THINGS WE

LOVE RIGHT NOW

Compiled by Lauri Clapper

Active Skin Repair Drop this in your cart now, because this stuff is amazing!

Natural, nontoxic, clinically proven and medical-grade, this multifunctional spray heals skin irritations in adults, kids and babies.

Check it out on Amazon (where it has 5,000+ five-star reviews!) or at BldgActive.com

Bluapple Protect your food investment by preserving your produce! By absorbing the ethylene gas that fruits and vegetables naturally release as they ripen, the Bluapple keeps your produce fresh up to 2–3 times longer than normal. Bonus: It’s super easy to use! TheBluApple.com

Silk Eye Mask Sleep is necessary, valuable—and elusive to many a parent! This eye mask has helped the lightest of sleepers in my family find reprieve, both at home and while traveling.

The Elysium silk mask is a light-blocking, sound-muffling, temperature-regulating must. You can even try it for 60 nights! GreenLeafLinens.com

10 march 2025

kcparent.com

DATES GOING LOCAL

DATENIGHT

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kcparent.com

This month, head to a super market for a casual and delicious date!

Westport Flea Market’s burger is consistently voted one of the best in KC, and it’s not hard to see why. Their beef is juicy and flavorful, plus The Flea offers an array of toppings so you can make your burger all your own. You order your food at the bar (where they take cash only) and your drinks from your server. You’ll see all types at this former-flea-marketturned-burger-joint—from white-collar, to blue-collar, to no-collar. Besides burgers, they have many other great menu items, like curly fries and paninis, along with daily specials. We’ve heard that their steak night is quite good, as is meatball grinder day. While you’re there, try your hand at a game of pool or brush up on your Skee-Ball and arcade game skills.

Price Rite Market & Deli, aka “The Little Store,” is one of the most unique food shops in KC and a true Northland gem. It’s a little supermarket (and I do mean little) that has two aisles of pantry goods, some refrigerated and frozen items and alcohol. Out front you can find local produce and, at certain times of year, flowers. It’s also an Italian deli that sells deli meat, salads, wraps, stromboli, pretzels and pizza (by the slice or whole pies). We love going for their delicious New York style pizza. Price Rite also offers a good selection of grab-and-go items, like individual and family-sized pasta dishes, take-and-bake pizzas and cheesecake. They have daily specials, as well as Sunday and limited-time deals on everything from baby back ribs to seedless black watermelons.

It’s a fun place to grab a bite to enjoy at one of their picnic tables or in your car while you do some people-watching.

The Fish Market in Liberty is a dive in the truest sense of the word—but it’s a good one! When we visited, I couldn’t help but feel like I was in a small-town, off-road establishment somewhere in the South. And while I’m not a big fan of fried food (which they have in abundance!), I definitely enjoyed it. We loved the fried catfish nuggets, French fries, hush puppies, crab cakes and jalapeño cornbread. The catfish was perfectly tender and flavorful, and the hush puppies had just the right amount of sweetness.

We also loved their house-made firecracker and remoulade sauces. If you want something that’s not fried, their street tacos with boiled shrimp are a solid choice. Next time I’m definitely trying a po’ boy!

Hannah Berry is a freelance writer who lives in the Northland with her husband. They love to explore Kansas City and try new restaurants and activities. Check out her Facebook page, Out & About in KC.

FOR MORE GREAT DATE NIGHT IDEAS, GO TO KCPARENT.COM!

Q&A DEARTEACHERS

BY PEGGY GISLER AND MARGE EBERTS

HELPING KIDS HANDLE NEGATIVE THOUGHTS

PARENTS: How can you help a child who is having negative thoughts?

How do you respond when your child makes remarks like, I am going to fail the test tomorrow; I won’t get a part in the school play; History tests make me anxious; I’ll never get this homework done tonight; etc.?

The answer to helping a child overcome a negative focus is practicing metacognition.

Metacognition can be defined as “thinking about your thinking.” It involves the recognition, awareness and control of one’s own thought processes. It’s an opportunity to examine your response to a situation and consider how you might respond more positively in the future.

For example, if your child says that she is going to fail a test, begin by asking open-ended questions to help her “think about her thinking,” such as: What makes you think you are going to fail the test? What can you do to prevent yourself from thinking you will fail the test? This helps your child learn how to develop a strategy.

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Using metacognition can still your child’s negative inner voice and help her avoid frustration. It is the process of changing “I can’t” to “I can.”

PARENTS: Almost every day, your child encounters new material in the classroom that he has to integrate with previously learned material.

This can be both difficult and confusing for students, especially if their teachers do not guide them in this process.

There are steps you can take with your child that will remove much of the confusion of learning new material and connecting it to his existing background knowledge. This will help him become a more independent learner, and even become his own teacher. While these steps will work for any subject, you might want to start with a new concept in history, math or science first.

Here are some steps students can take when they encounter new material:

1. Look over the material. Notice what stands out to you and what you wonder about the topic.

2. Get a clearer picture of what you need to learn by filling in three columns: “what I know about this topic,” “what I don’t know” and “what I sort of know.”

3. Sketch a map that shows how the new information you’ve learned connects to what you already knew about the topic.

4. Ask the teacher if you have any questions about the topic.

5. Consider why the new information is important.

QUESTION: My daughter is in fifth grade, and I worry because she is a terrible writer. Next year she will start junior high school. How can she ever pick up the writing skills she needs? What can I do to help her?

—Struggling to Write

ANSWER: Writing is complicated.

It requires children to be able to use many language skills, including organizing their thoughts, having the vocabulary to express those thoughts and using correct grammar, punctuation and spelling.

It is important to learn why your child is struggling to write well. Study her papers and look for patterns in her writing. Is she using fifth-grade vocabulary words? Does she vary her language or use the same words over and over? Do you understand what your daughter is trying to say in her writing? Are words spelled correctly?

Does she have good grammar and punctuation skills?

You definitely need to talk with her teacher to share your concerns and find out how you may be able to help. Is a tutor or learning center needed? You can also find many helpful websites by searching “writing help for elementary students.” Some websites use AI to help students correct errors in their papers.

Writing skills develop over time in the elementary grades, but it can take longer for some students. If you believe that you can provide your child the help she needs, begin by helping her improve one skill at a time. Another way you can help her is by having her write more—for

example, encourage her to write in a diary every day. The more she writes, the better she is likely to become. In addition, reading more will help her learn what good writing looks like.

One important piece of advice: Your daughter knows she is not a good writer. When you talk to her about something she’s written, give her some positive feedback while also pointing out one thing she might improve.

You are wise to seek ways to help your child improve her writing skills now. Continue your efforts, especially in the summer, until you see improvement.

© Compass Syndicate Corporation, 2024

Explore Oakhill, an independent private school in Northland Kansas City, where students thrive and potential unfolds. From Pretoddler (18-months) through Grade 12, our community empowers growth, values uniqueness, and inspires excellence in every student.

From Learners to Leaders Your Story Unfolds at Oakhill

Now enrolling students in Grades Pretoddler (age 18-months) - 12th Grade Tour one or both of our campuses located in the heart of Gladstone, Missouri.

Learn more at oakhilldayschool.org/admissions | 816.436.6228

Oakhill Day School will seek diversity in its student body and welcome enrollment by students of any race, color, national or ethnic origin, gender or sexual orientation, and any other characteristic protected under applicable law. It prohibits unlawful discrimination, harassment, and retaliation on the basis of any protected category under applicable federal, state or local laws or ordinances, including but not limited to Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VI), Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VII), Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967 (ADEA), Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (Title IX), the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Section 504), specifically, but not limited to, discrimination, harassment, or retaliation on the basis of sexual orientation, gender or sex, race or ethnicity, ethnic group identification, ancestry, nationality, national origin, religion, color, mental or physical disability, age, or on the basis of a person’s association with a person or group with one or more of these actual or perceived characteristics in Oakhill Day School’s educational programs or activities.

© Compass Syndicate Corporation, 2024

Find us on Facebook facebook.com/oakhilldayschool

kcparent.com march 2025

15

TASTYTREATS

(Family Features)

F

or busy families, it’s hard to beat a one-skillet dish that cuts down on cleanup without sacrificing flavor. Warm up the evening with a hot Tex-Mex meal that’s sure to occupy a permanent spot on the menu.

Consider this fun fact to share with your loved ones at the dinner table: Although most of us continue to use two words, the one-word spelling of “sweetpotato” was officially adopted by the National Sweetpotato Collaborators in 1989 to avoid confusion with equally unique and distinctive potatoes, which are also grown and marketed commercially in the United States.

Tex-Mex Sweet Potato Beef Skillet Servings: 6 2 medium sweet potatoes 3 bell peppers (combination of red, yellow and orange) 1 small onion 2 T. olive oil or butter, divided 2 garlic cloves, minced 1 lb. lean ground beef 1/2 c. beef broth 1 can diced tomatoes 8 oz. tomato sauce 1 can Mexi-corn or Southwest corn 1 T. Southwest seasoning Salt to taste Pepper to taste

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1. Rinse and scrub sweet potatoes to clean. Chop into half-inch cubes.

Dice bell pepper and onion. Set aside.

2. In skillet over medium heat, heat 1 tablespoon oil or butter.

3. Add garlic and saute until fragrant, being careful not to burn.

4. Add ground beef, breaking apart and stirring until cooked through, 5–7 minutes. Remove garlic and beef to covered bowl or plate and set aside.

5. In same skillet, add remaining oil or butter. Saute peppers, onion and sweet potatoes until slightly tender.

6. Pour in broth, diced tomatoes and tomato sauce; cover and simmer 12-15 minutes.

7. Stir in cooked beef and corn. Cook until liquid reduces and mixture thickens slightly. Add seasoning and salt and pepper to taste.

Recipe courtesy of Meredith Bernard of This Farm Wife on behalf of the North Carolina Sweetpotato Commission

CRAFTCORNER

ROYALS BASEBALL BANNER

I

t’s baseball season! This DIY Royals Baseball Banner is a festive way to support our team and keep our little ones busy while we watch the game!

SUPPLIES: Six white paper plates Scissors Hole punch Red marker Blue marker Blue yarn/ribbon Tape

DIRECTIONS: Step one: Cut the center circle out of six paper plates.

Step two: Using the red marker, draw baseball stitching on each circle.

Step three: Using the blue marker, write out “Royals,” with one letter on each baseball.

Step four: Use the hole punch to make a hole on either side of each baseball.

Step five: Thread the yarn/ribbon through the holes and string the baseballs together.

Step six: Hang your banner and enjoy cheering on the Royals!

Janelle Cumro-Sultzer lives in Manhattan, Kan., with her husband, three children (2, 4 and 6) and two senior dogs. Janelle is a homeschooling mom who enjoys writing in her spare time. Janelle loves to focus on learning through play and getting messy with crafts.

kcparent.com march 2025

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Tips for New Pet Owners Spend quality time with your pet daily, providing attention, affection and mental stimulation.

w

(Family Features) elcoming a new pet is exciting, but preparation is needed to provide a loving home and enjoy the unconditional love.

Prepare your furry friend for a new home with these essential tips for first-time pet owners.

Create a Routine Establish a consistent schedule for feeding, exercise and bathroom breaks. Determine the appropriate amount and frequency of meals for your pet’s age, size and breed.

Spend quality time with your pet daily, providing attention, affection and mental stimulation.

Budget for Your Pet’s Needs Choose the Right Pet for Your Lifestyle Consider your living situation, work schedule and personal preferences. Research different breeds to find the one that matches your activity level, living space and family dynamics. Also consider any allergies or sensitivities you or your family may have as some pets may trigger allergies or asthma symptoms.

Set Up Your Home Before bringing your new pet home, create a safe and comfortable environment. Start by pet-proofing your home, removing any hazardous substances and securing loose wires or cords. Make sure to store cleaning supplies, medications and toxic plants out of reach. Provide a designated space that includes a cozy bed or crate, food and water bowls and toys.

Owning a pet comes with financial responsibilities.

Consider the costs of food, grooming, veterinary care, vaccinations and preventive medications. Additionally, factor in the cost of toys, bedding, litter and other supplies.

Find a Reliable Veterinarian Regular checkups and open communication with a local veterinarian can help detect any potential health issues early and ensure your pet receives the best possible care.

Ask friends, family or neighbors with pets for provider recommendations and read reviews. Visit potential veterinarians’ offices to meet the staffs, tour the facilities and ask any questions you may have.

Find more tips for welcoming a furry friend into your home at ELivingToday.com.

Photo courtesy of Unsplash

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kcparent.com march 2025

WORDFROMDAD

SEASONAL TURNCOAT

“Dad, when’s the snow going to melt?”

In our area, March is a month to be more endured than enjoyed. One day can be T-shirt and shorts weather, while the next has us dragging out our parkas. All the while, spring weather teases us, never out of sight but always out of reach.

“What’s the deal, Ian? I thought you loved snow almost as much as I do.”

Ian stared out the window with a dour look on his face.

“Yeah, but this snow isn’t like it was when it first fell. It’s hard and you can’t have any fun with it. To make things worse, it’s downright ugly. There are piles in the parking lots and where we shoveled, but other than those, it’s pretty much gone. Why can’t the rest of it melt, too?”

“I know what you mean, son. I felt the same when I was your age.”

“What did you do?”

“Just like you, I wondered, ‘Why won’t this stuff melt?’

After a little thinking, it became clear. Those piles of snow don’t melt because they’ve compacted themselves into ice. On top of that, they’re all together, making the concentration even harder to melt.”

Ian turned from the window to me. “What did you do then?”

“I got the straight-bladed hoe from the garage and attacked the piles beside the driveway. It didn’t take long.

I handled the hoe like a battle-ax and broke up the piles.

Your grandfather didn’t mind, and within a few days, our snow piles were only memories.”

“Is that all you did?”

“Nope. When I started driving, I tried to crush the small patches of ice on the roads. I probably missed more than I hit, but the effort was worth it.”

“Do we have a straight-bladed hoe?”

“Odd you should ask.”

William R. Bartlett lives in Kansas City with his family. kcparent.com march 2025

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READINGRECESS

Gardening

Plant yourself in a cozy spot and dig into these great gardening reads as we head into spring!

We are the Gardeners

by Joanna Gaines; illustrated by Julianna Swaney. Best for ages 6+.

Gaines writes about her family’s failures and successes in starting their gardening adventures, including the troubleshooting they have to do when obstacles pop up.

Nature’s Best Hope: A New Approach to Conservation That Starts in Your Yard

by Douglas W. Tallamy. Best for ages 9+.

Worrying about the future of our planet will do nothing, but starting in your own backyard can make serious ripple-like changes! Tallamy gives kids practical and easy ways to conserve nature and help our planet without even leaving home.

Miss Maple’s Seeds

by Eliza Wheeler. Best for ages 5+.

This stunning and whimsical picture book follows Miss Maple as she gathers lost seeds and finds the perfect places to plant them so they can sprout.

Children learn that every seed has potential—it just needs a chance!

Roots, Shoots, Buckets & Boots

by Sharon Lovejoy. Best for ages 9+.

In this absolutely delightful book, Lovejoy offers 12 ideas for themed gardens. Whether you plant a pizza garden (a wheel-shaped garden that includes pizza ingredient plants like oregano, basil and tomatoes) or a moon garden full of night-blooming flowers, your family will love these ideas and want to get started right away!

Miss Rumphius

by Barbara Cooney. Best for ages 5+.

Warning: After reading this book, you and your children may want to scatter flower seeds everywhere you go. Sweet Miss Rumphius dreamed of traveling the world and leaving it more beautiful than how she found it. She begins her legacy by planting lupine seeds along the Maine coast.

Easy Peasy: Gardening for Kids

by Kirsten Bradley; illustrated by Aitch. Best for ages 7+.

From the text to the illustrations, this is a gem of a book. Kirsten Bradley does an amazing job of teaching kids that they too can be gardeners with her how-to instructions. Make your own flower pot, learn how to save seeds and make an envelope to store them in! Don’t forget to stop and admire the illustrations by Romanian artist Aitch, whose art is reminiscent of folklore and vintage botanical books.

Delena Soukup is a homeschooling mom who loves coffee, discussing children’s literature with strangers and chronicling her domestic adventures on Instagram @thecoffeecurriculum.

Your Library card is your coupon to savings! Before you spend, save time and money researching expert opinions and advice with resources from Johnson County Library.

Stop in or visit online today! jocolibrary.org No purchase necessary. No expiration. No late fees. Valid at all 14 locations.

kcparent.com march 2025

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ARE YOU PREPARED?

Emergency Preparedness for Families

A

re you prepared if disaster strikes? It probably isn’t your favorite question to consider, but especially if you have children in the house, it’s important to ensure that your family is equipped if fire, inclement weather or worse threatens their safety.

So how do you anticipate the unexpected? Start with these simple tips:

Prepare a meeting place and procedure What would you do if your house were to catch on fire? The answer may seem obvious to you, but it might not be to your children. Have a family meeting to discuss your evacuation plan in case of an emergency. Have the kids help find exits and come up with options if those exits are inaccessible.

Where will your family meet once they are safely outside? Designating a meeting place will help you account for any missing family members in an emergency. It’s also wise to show kids basic fire safety skills like “stop, drop and roll” and demonstrate what the fire alarm sounds like.

Prepare a kit Prepare an emergency kit with first aid supplies, shoes, clothing, food and water. Include a hard copy of important contact details in case you cannot get to your electronic contact list.

Prepare communication Assign someone who lives outside your area to be the contact you will report to in case of an emergency (this decreases the chances that your contact will also be dealing with an emergency). Phone lines may be down or busy in a natural disaster, so plan other methods of checking in. In case of busy signals, try sending a text or check in on social media.

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Prepare pets Have pets microchipped in case they get lost in an emergency. Also consider who would temporarily house your pet if you were to be displaced from your home—most shelters do not accept pets.

Prepare the house Write a note on your calendar or set a reminder on your phone to check your alarm batteries regularly and review your evacuation plan with your family.

According to the U.S. Fire Administration, smoke detectors should be tested at least once a month, and batteries should be replaced at least twice a year.

Prepare yourself Learn CPR and first aid; review how to use a fire extinguisher; know your exact evacuation routes; locate area shelters. Preparing yourself for the possibility of an emergency will help you remain calm if you are faced with one of these situations.

Prepare the kids Make sure your kids know their address, phone number, parents’ names and how and when to dial 911. Take a fire station tour or a first aid class to help them feel more prepared. Continue to discuss and practice with them what they’ve learned.

Though we all hope that we’ll never have to use our emergency plans, it is important to take these measures. Preparing for an emergency will help you keep yourself, your family and your neighbors safe.

Sarah Lyons is a wife and stay-at-home mom to six children, including 2-year-old triplets. She writes from her home in Kansas City.

PARKJAUNTS

THE BEST PLAYGROUND

s e d i l S

IN KANSAS CITY

These playgrounds are home to some of the tallest, fastest and most unique slides in the Kansas City metro!

Arno Park

Concourse Park (Kansas City, Mo.)— Grab a blanket and take a ride down the colossal embankment slides at Concourse Park. The slides are wide enough for the whole family to fly down together, and they lead directly to a playground where you’ll find climbing structures, swings and shorter slides for little ones. In the warmer months, you can cool off by running through the park’s fountains.

Arno Park (Kansas City, Mo.)—Since undergoing renovations in 2023, Arno Park has delighted visitors of all ages with its enormous blue slide. A built-in climbing net leads to the top of the slide, where children can coast down the wide, rubbery surface.

Beneath the slide you’ll find additional ropes and swinging features to play on.

The park also contains smaller slides for younger children, a seesaw, spinning chairs, a tunnel and a climbing hill.

Lowenstein Park (Lee’s Summit)— Three towering purple slides serve as the centerpiece of this nature-themed park. Kids will particularly love spiraling down the corkscrew slide. Other popular attractions include an assortment of climbing structures, a raccoon spring rocker, accessible swings and toddler slides. While the kids play, adults can enjoy the park’s fitness equipment.

Lowenstein Park

Little Mill Creek North Park

Valley Park (Grandview)—If your children are thrill-seekers, Valley Park is the place to go! After scaling a netted tower, kids will reach the entrance to a 55-foot-long slide that sends riders zooming past the trees at seven miles per hour. Park-goers also rave about the park’s long zip line, saucer swings, giant musical instruments and various climbing apparatuses.

Little Mill Creek North Park (Lenexa)—This park boasts the two tallest slides in Lenexa! These massive green slides look like giants next to the others in the park and provide an exhilarating experience for older kids.

The park also has a zip line, merry-goround, climbing net, swing set and separate play area for toddlers.

Anna Hiestand resides in Blue Springs with her family. She has a passion for writing, art and cinema.

FIND HUNDREDS MORE PARK JAUNTS AT KCPARENT.COM kcparent.com march 2025

23

PARTYGUIDE

Six Things to Consider Before Planning a Child’s Birthday Party

Siblings Plan for siblings who may tag along with the invited guest. Some venues only allow a certain number of children at a party, but it’s hard to tell parents that their other kid(s) can’t join in, especially if childcare is an issue. Communicate with parents (and ask them to communicate with you) about siblings attending the party.

Drop-offs Let other parents know whether this will be a drop-off party. I was surprised when, at the beginning of my child’s eighth birthday party, a parent said, “I’ll be back at 4:00!” and walked out the door. If you are welcoming drop-offs, write down any parent contact information in case of emergency.

Where fun

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24 march 2025

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All things gifts After I sent out invitations, people asked me what my daughter liked. For some, it was easy to text, “Animals and crafts!” But next time I might add a note to the bottom of the invitation like, “No need for gifts, but if you choose to bring one, the birthday girl loves ____!” Also, discuss your plan for when and where gifts will be opened. This will prevent your child from asking to open presents in front of others if you planned to wait until you get home.

Visit kansascityzoo.org/plan-your-party

Kids like pizza … but most prefer cheese After running out of cheese pizza early on and being left with several pepperoni pizzas, I learned that most kids prefer cheese. Consider your demographic (as well as allergies!) when ordering or preparing food.

You will never (ever) meet the needs of everyone invited And that’s okay! Setting a date and time is one of the most difficult aspects of a birthday party. Someone will inevitably have a soccer game or another commitment. Choose a date and time that works best for you and almost everyone else.

That being said, it’s good to keep guests’ comfort in mind when you’re considering details like location and weather. For instance, if you’re planning a summer party at a splash pad, think about factors like travel time for guests and access to shade.

Have an Unforgettable Party!

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Quality, not quantity Birthday parties are hard, and feelings might get hurt. As a parent, you might feel anxious about “not enough” kids attending your child’s party, but aim for quality over quantity.

Expect that a handful of invitees won’t be able to attend and factor this into your final headcount.

Kailyn Rhinehart writes from Warrensburg, Mo, where she lives with her husband and two small children.

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25

PAIR &SHARE

Green Eggs and Ham

By Dr. Seuss

M

arch is a great time to celebrate Dr. Seuss (whose birthday is March 2) as well as the color green! You guessed it: it’s time for some Green Eggs and Ham! Many of us are familiar with this classic already, so why not expand on the story by preparing Green Egg Pretzel Bites and Ham Rolls with the kids beforehand?

Optional: During the story, have the children play the roles of “Sam-I-Am” and the “Unnamed Grump” character. As you read, have the children act out their characters with motions and silly facial expressions. For example, The Grump might stomp, shake his head, shake his fist, roll his eyes or put his hand up in a “Stop!” gesture. Sam-I-Am might wave excitedly, plead with folded hands or even pantomime a house/mouse/goat/boat, etc. (If you’re really ambitious, throw in costumes for the kids to wear.) When the story culminates in The Grump agreeing to try the green eggs and ham, direct the children to the table where they can eat their snack!

Fun fact: There are only 50 words in Green Eggs and Ham. If you don’t want to incorporate the theatrical component suggested above, read the list of all 50 words before you begin and tell the children to listen for each one! a, am, and, anywhere, are, be, boat, box, car, could, dark, do, eat, eggs, fox, goat, good, green, ham, here, house, I, if, in, let, like, may, me, mouse, not, on, or, rain, Sam, say, see, so, thank, that, the, them, there, they, train, tree, try, will, with, would, you.

Green Egg Pretzel Bites Ingredients: 1 bag waffle pretzels (round or square) 1 bag white chocolate melting wafers 30 green M&Ms

Ham Rolls

Directions: 1. Preheat the oven to 175–200°.

2. Cover a cookie sheet with parchment paper.

3. Place 30 pretzels on the cookie sheet (make sure they are not touching one another).

4. Place one white chocolate melt on the middle of each pretzel.

5. Put your cookie sheet in the oven. Check every minute until the chocolate is slightly melted (2–3 minutes).

6. Pull the cookie tray out of the oven. Before the white chocolate hardens, press a green M&M into each piece.

7. Let the pretzels cool before eating!

Recipe courtesy of The-Girl-Who-Ate-Everything.com

Ingredients: Pickle spears Deli ham, thinly sliced Whipped cream cheese

Directions: 1. Place a slice of ham on a plate or clean surface.

2. WIth a firm spatula or small knife, spread a very thin layer of whipped cream cheese across the entire slice of ham.

3. Position a pickle spear on the edge of the ham slice.

4. Roll the pickle up in the ham like a burrito.

5. Slice the ham rolls into 2-inch pieces.

6. Store leftovers in refrigerator for up to four days.

Alicia Mock operates Adventure Arts Academy for 3–5-year-olds from her home in Overland Park. Alicia offers one-on-one parent coaching and is a musical theater enthusiast, singer, writer and promoter of all things positive. She was recently widowed from her husband, Cary, with whom she shares four amazing, nearly flown children.

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ST. PATRICK’S DAY IN KANSAS CITY

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Kansas City with Food and Fun PARADES: Martin City St. Patrick’s Day Parade | March 10, 2:00 Downtown Overland Park St. Patrick’s Day Parade | March 16, 10:00 North KC Snake Saturday Parade | March 16, 11:00 Brookside St. Patrick’s Warm-Up Parade | March 16, 2:00 Kansas City’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade | March 17, 11:00 Lawrence’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade | March 17, 1:00

LOCAL IRISH FOOD: Browne’s Irish Market

Llywelyn’s Pub

Established in 1887, this fifth-generation family market offers a wide variety of handmade sandwiches, Irish potato soup, Irish stew and Dublin potato salad. Must-Eat Item: Browne’s serves a traditional Irish breakfast on St. Patrick’s Day!

Known for its authentic Celtic food and friendly atmosphere, Llywelyn’s serves classics like a St. Paddy’s Melt, Reuben, and fish and chips. Must-Eat Item: Irish Boxty—a yummy potato pancake filled with corned beef, cabbage and Swiss cheese.

Conroy’s Public House

O’Dowd’s Little Dublin

Known for Irish fare with an American twist, Conroy’s has a cozy pub atmosphere with multiple locations in the Kansas City area.

Must-Eat Item: Cottage Pie—the Irish take on a pot pie, featuring a baked crust filled with meat and vegetables.

Complete with a rooftop patio, O’Dowd’s serves all of your Irish favorites. Must-Eat Item: Irish Bangers and Mash—traditional Irish sausages served over creamy mashed potatoes with rich onion gravy.

The Craic

500 Welt St., Weston | 816.640.5235 | WestonIrish.com

3300 Pennsylvania Ave., Kansas City, Mo. | 816.561.0030 | BrownesIrishMarket.com

Overland Park, Leawood and Westwood | 816.640.5235 | Conroys-Public-House.Restaurants-World.com

12 Main St., Parkville | 816.599.4012 | CraicOnMain.com Named after the Irish term for fun and enjoyment, The Craic provides a quaint pub atmosphere with hearty Irish fare and live music. Must-Eat Item: Shepherd’s Pie—a traditional dish made with minced meat and vegetables, topped with mashed potatoes.

301 SE Douglas St., Lee’s Summit | 816.272.5083 | LlywelynsPub.com

4742 Pennsylvania, Kansas City, Mo. | 816.561.2700 | ODowdsLittleDublin.com

O’Malley’s 1842 Irish Pub

With underground limestone cellars and a historic 1800s ambiance, O’Malley’s is one of most unique Irish pubs in the region.

Must-Eat Item: Lamb Shepherd’s Pie—a rich and hearty dish featuring slow-cooked lamb, peas, carrots and onions topped with creamy mashed potatoes. kcparent.com march 2025

27

Get the kids involved.

Children can pitch in on chores at an early age. Preschoolers can dust floorboards and furniture; school-age children can load the dishwasher and help with laundry; and teens, with practice and guidance, can lend a hand in almost any area. Robin Proskovec of Scranton, Pa., says, “I have the older two do daily chores to earn their allowance. They cannot do any electronics until they are done, so they are usually pretty motivated.”

Teaching kids to help with family chores not only keeps the house in order, but also has lasting value. Krystal Laws, mother of seven, says, “Children over the age of 5 have daily chores. We start with learning something simple like putting T-shirts on hangers, folding towels or putting away silverware. We rotate chores, but try to help them progress in skill too. The idea is that they are ready to take care of a household when they leave home.”

Keep up.

L realistic FIVE

ways to cut

CHORES in HALF

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ife as a parent is busy. We juggle work, errands, school activities and time with friends and family. The last things we want to think about are household chores, but they still need our attention. By following these simple and realistic tips, you can cut your chores in half and start spending more time doing the things you enjoy.

Make a cleaning schedule.

A cleaning schedule helps designate time for chores to be completed without letting them impose on your free time. Having days set aside for certain chores helps organize the week so your to-do list doesn’t become overwhelming.

Jennifer Klindworth, Olathe mom of twin girls, says, “I keep Mondays free of things we have to do outside the home. This is when I get all the laundry done. I usually clean the house toward the end of the week so I can enjoy the weekend.”

Do dishes and pick up clutter daily so the stacks do not get out of control. Helen Ransom of Kansas City, Mo., says, “My husband and I are both dedicated to taking the first twenty minutes after putting the kids to bed to cleaning up—dishes, floors, start a load of laundry, bathrooms on rotation.” Setting aside 15–20 minutes each day to maintain the house makes a huge difference. Those few minutes spent tidying up allow you to enjoy your downtime even more.

It is much easier to maintain a clean house when you keep up on the tasks that pile up quickly, but take little time to do each day. Kim Burnett, mom of two, says, “If my kitchen is clean, I feel like I am ahead of the game. Every night before going to bed, I prep lunches for the next day, put away clean dishes and reload the dishwasher.”

Do it now, not later.

As you walk in the door, automatically hang up your coat and put your shoes away.

As you prepare for bed, put dirty clothes in the hamper. After eating, immediately place dirty dishes in the dishwasher. By taking

a few seconds to put things away as you finish with them, you save yourself the time it would take to do it later. A good rule of thumb is if it takes less than three minutes to do it, do it right away.

Let expectations go a little.

Maintaining a clean house can be a challenge for a busy, active family on the go.

There will always be toys to pick up, laundry and dishes to wash and school papers to sort. Figure out the level of cleanliness you can comfortably live with and maintain it.

For some people, everything must be clean and put away. For others, a little clutter makes us feel at home. Laws says, “Lower your expectations a little. Don’t stress over trying to make things perfect, because they never will be.”

Sarah Lyons is a wife and mother of six children living in Olathe.

“What is your least favorite household chore?”

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• Treat stains as soon as possible.

• Choose one to two days a week to do laundry.

(Or, for the larger family, do one to two loads a day to keep up.)

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PROGRAMS FOR CHILDREN AGES 2-18 KANSAS CITY BALLET SCHOOL OFFERS A WIDE RANGE OF CLASSES AND CAMPS FOR DANCERS OF ALL AGES. CLASSES AND CAMPS ARE DESIGNED TO PROVIDE YOUR CHILD WITH EXCELLENT BALLET TRAINING AND SUPERIOR ATTENTION FROM OUR PROFESSIONAL TEACHERS, ALL WHILE HAVING FUN

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BE YOU. BE ADVENTUROUS. BELONG. We believe kids need camp now more than ever. Our youth are facing countless challenges as they try to navigate the world around them. At Camp Wood YMCA, campers are able to uncover adventure, explore who they are, and find their place of belonging.

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CAMPGUIDE

THE CASE FOR

SUMMER CAMP

T

oday our kids face more challenges than ever. Anxiety and depression are at an all-time high, and despite the fact that we’re more connected, feelings of social isolation are rampant. The world is in desperate need of summer camp.

In today’s fast-paced, highly digital world, summer camp serves as a sanctuary for youth to unplug, connect face-toface and explore their unique potential.

Camp is about more than just fun; it actively addresses many of the struggles kids encounter. It is a transformative experience that equips young people with the empathy, grit and curiosity they need to thrive in an ever-changing world.

We believe camp plays a crucial role in helping kids push against many of the challenges they’re facing. Here’s how summer camps across the country are making a difference:

From Fragility to Grit Today’s youth have fewer opportunities to take risks and engage in unsupervised play. A culture

34 march 2025

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of safetyism has led to children becoming more fragile, easily offended and reliant on others for problem-solving. Without the chance to experience failures, they miss out on building resilience.

Camps create a safe space for children to develop autonomy and responsibility. Through engaging activities, campers learn perseverance and the value of overcoming setbacks.

By facing and conquering challenges, they build essential grit that will serve them throughout their lives.

From Mental Health Struggles to Healthy Minds Mental health challenges are now considered the leading cause of disability among youth. Anxiety, depression and suicidal thoughts are at record highs with no indication of slowing. Each year, approximately 1 in 6 U.S. youth aged 6–17 experience a mental health disorder.

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At camp, kids engage in outdoor adventures, teamwork and creative exploration, all of which contribute to a healthier state of mind.

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A Priceless Investment We get it, summer camp is expensive. But what if instead of seeing the cost, you saw the lifelong benefits your child would gain? Imagine seeing newfound confidence as your child conquers challenges, experiences the joy of deep friendships that last beyond the summer and builds resilience by trying new things. Instead of an expense, camp becomes an investment in the things that matter.

Camps worldwide are shaping a new generation of engaged, capable and resilient individuals. And isn’t that exactly what we need?

Brad Murray is the CEO of Camp Wood YMCA in Elmdale, Kan. He has over 25 years of camping experience and previously worked for camps in Missouri, Iowa and Kentucky. Brad feels passionately that all kids should have the opportunity to attend summer camp and believes in its power to change the world.

s City!

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SUMMER 5-DAY CAMPS MONDAY – FRIDAY | MAY 27 – AUGUST 1 Morning and afternoon hands-on cooking and baking classes for Junior Chefs (ages 9–14) REGISTRATION OPEN NOW! kcculinary.com/cookingclasses/junior-chefs-academy/

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7920 Santa Fe Dr. | Overland Park, KS kcparent.com march 2025

35

CAMPGUIDE environment. Personalized attention from instructors fosters growth and confidence. Class placement is based on age and grade, with evaluations for levels beyond Pre-Ballet. Visit KCBallet.org/summer-programs/ for details. See display ad on pg. 31.

Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium Go wild this summer with summer break camps at the zoo! Camp runs June 2 – Aug. 15. Day camp curriculums are age-appropriate and are properly chaperoned at all times.

Activities may include but are not limited to educational games, crafts, shows, rides, science experiments and educational movies. Full-day camps are available for ages 5 – 17, Mon. – Thurs., 8:30 – 3:30. COST: $265 for four-day camps. FOTZ discounts available.

Single-day camps also available.

Learn more at KansasCityZoo.org.

See display ad on pg. 38.

Lenexa Parks & Recreation

Summer 2025: Let’s Go!

JUNE 2 - AUGUST 1 | TODDLER (AGE 2) - 8TH GRADE Weekly Field Trips Themed Camps Before/After Care Lunch Offerings Optional Swim Lessons NEW! Summer Scholars Academic Program Fees Start under $70/Day

OAKHILLDAYSCHOOL.ORG/SUMMER

7019 N CHERRY STREET | GLADSTONE, MO | 64118

36

kcparent.com march 2025

Make this a summer to remember!

Lenexa Parks & Recreation offers all-day camps, weeklong adventures and exciting enrichment camps where kids can explore art, theater, sports, LEGO engineering, technology and more. Whether they love to create, perform or play, there’s something for everyone—plus, we keep camps affordable for all. Spark curiosity, build skills and fuel the fun all summer long! Learn more and register at Lenexa.com/GetActive or 913.477.7100. See display ad on pg. 33.

Oakhill Every day is an adventure at Oakhill in the summertime! This summer, we’re offering both academic and traditional camp experiences! Our high-energy Fully Charged themed day camps are Continued to page 38

vacation bible camp JULY 14-17

RESURRECTION.CHURCH/VBC

kcparent.com march 2025

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CAMPGUIDE perfect for toddlers through middle schoolers, while Summer Scholars academic programs, led by certified teachers, are designed for campers in Kindergarten through 5th Grade. Dive into the summer fun with field trips, camp-wide water balloon battles, pool visits, and more, led by our fantastic Fully Charged counselors! Enroll now: OakhillDaySchool.org/Summer. See display ad on pg. 36.

Resurrection, a United Methodist Church

Full day camps available for ages 5-17 June 2 - August 15 Monday-Thursday, 8:30am-3:30pm

www.KansasCityZoo.org

­

Vacation Bible Camp at Resurrection, a United Methodist Church, is an unforgettable adventure for children in kindergarten through 5th grade! The week of July 14 – 17 will be filled with fun incorporating the theme of “Wild Kingdom.” Campers will experience a safe and welcoming environment. VBC is offered at all Resurrection locations.

Register your children today at Resurrection.Church/VBC. See display ad on pg. 37.

Rock Springs Since 1946, Rock Springs Ranch has been host to generations of young campers. They unplug, explore, learn lifelong skills and grow in the heart of the Flint Hills of Kansas, a wondrous place with wide, open spaces. Many make friends for life.

Open to ages 8 – 17 with choice of 3or 5-night adventures with enrichment activities, outdoor fun and expanded programming, including a focus on leadership skills. RockSpringsRanch.org; 785.257.3221. See display ad on pg. 36.

Theatre of the Imagination Acting! Singing! Dancing! Moviemaking! Fun and flexible week-long camps, start and stop whenever you like. Open to children in 1st through 8th grade (in Fall ’25), no previous Continued to page 40

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CAMPGUIDE experience needed. No auditions, no leads and small class sizes. Big performance at the end of each week.

Free shows and costumes. Shows include The Swift Era Musical, Wicked Girls of Oz, Speedy the Hedgehog, Unicorns, Space Warriors, Frozen, MindCrafty and more! Mention KC Parent & get $25 off (some restrictions apply).

See display ad on pg. 40. DramaKC.com

Tiger Rock Unleash the potential within your child this summer at Tiger Rock’s Martial Arts Summer Camp! For just $189, dive into a world of excitement and growth at our studio. Your fee covers a sleek summer training uniform and endless martial arts lessons. Act fast! Secure your spot soon as this price is limited to the first 30 members. Our classes are in high demand every summer, so

don’t miss out—register today! Call or text 913.851.5050 (Overland Park) or 605.595.5284 (North Overland Park) to reserve your spot. Don’t forget to check out our display ad on pg. 33 and visit KCTigerRock.com for more details. Let the adventure begin!

Youthfront Youthfront Camp has provided a fun and faith-building experience to kids and teens for more than 80 years. Campers have a blast at the Splash Park on the lake, theme nights, sport courts and more. Faith formation activities and worship gatherings create space for campers to experience God in a personal way. Overnight camp is offered for grades 3 – 12 and Day Camp is available for grades 1 – 5. Learn more and register at YouthFront.com/SummerCamp.

See display ad on pg. 38.

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DID YOU KNOW? KCParent.com has a NEW geo-based, searchable Camp Guide with maps, descriptions, photos and videos.

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MARVELOUSMUSEUMS

Amelia Earhart Hangar Museum

VISIT ONE OF OUR FAVORITE LOCAL MUSEUMS! AMELIA EARHART HANGAR MUSEUM

NATIONAL FRONTIER TRAILS MUSEUM

16701 286th Rd., Atchison, Kan. AmeliaEarhartHangarMuseum.org

416 W. Maple Ave., Independence IndependenceMo.gov

This immersive museum celebrates the life and legacy of aviation pioneer Amelia Earhart through interactive STEM exhibits.

Visitors can explore Earhart’s remarkable flight achievements while engaging with hands-on displays that showcase the science of aviation. The museum inspires future generations to dream big and follow in Earhart’s adventurous footsteps.

This museum explores the history of the Oregon, California and Santa Fe trails and their pivotal role in westward expansion.

Exhibits on American exploration and settlement as well as historical personal narratives paint an unforgettable picture of the pioneers who braved these trails.

KEMPER MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART MONEY MUSEUM 1 Memorial Dr., Kansas City, Mo. KansasCityFed.org The Money Museum at the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City offers an inside look at the U.S. monetary system and the role of the Federal Reserve. Visitors can see one of the largest cash vaults in the country, explore rare coin collections and learn about the importance of monetary policy. The museum’s interactive exhibits make learning about the economy fun and accessible for all ages. Plus, guests can leave with a free bag of shredded cash as a souvenir.

MISSOURI TOWN LIVING HISTORY MUSEUM 8010 E. Park Rd., Lee’s Summit MakeYourDayHere.com This recreated 30-acre farming community immerses history fans of all ages in rural 1850s life. Costumed interpreters and historical demonstrations bring the past to life by showcasing 19th-century farming, craftsmanship and daily life.

4420 Warwick Blvd., Kansas City, Mo. KemperArt.org Kemper Museum offers free admission to its rotating exhibits of modern and contemporary works. Showcasing a variety of forms, including painting, sculpture and multimedia installations from both established and emerging artists, it’s a must-visit for modern art lovers.

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TONS MORE ADVENTURES ONLINE! Follow KC Parent Magazine on social media to discover even more events, crafts and exclusive giveaways that you won’t want to miss!

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DIGITAL

DETOX A family digital detox can be just the ticket to building stronger relationships while putting tech in its rightful place: working for you and not against you.

Define Your Ground Rules Like many parents of the digital age, author and mom of six Molly DeFrank embraced the use of smart phones and tablets with her children. But she had growing concerns when her children lost interest in life offline, developed emotional outbursts and became, as she puts it, “zombified.” She quickly realized things needed to change and began a digital detox using a strategy she calls U-N-D-O: 1) Unplug from digital tech 2) Notice your kids (and their interests) 3) Develop screen-free alternatives 4) Open the books (rediscover the joy of reading) In her book Digital Detox: The Two-Week Tech Reset for Kids, DeFrank chronicles how her family life was transformed—within days, her children found no shortage of things to do.

As DeFrank learned, defining your “why” is critical to your plan’s success. Are you looking to reclaim your evenings? Dinners?

Is there one particular type of media that is causing tension or consuming most of

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your child’s free time? Evaluate what’s out of whack and make manageable goals. Not all tech is created equal, and not all devices may be problematic.

Establish Your Goals It’s not enough to just avoid unhealthy use of technology. As a family, it’s important that your mission is clear: What are you running toward instead? Consult your crew and compile a bucket list of activities each person has wanted to pursue but hasn’t had time for (after all, if your family uses screens at the national average, you will regain a bunch of time!). The sky’s the limit: new hobbies, fitness goals, creative pursuits, home improvement projects, outings, extending hospitality or tackling book lists are all good starting points. Map out your digital detox timeline and fill time slots with ideas from each family member.

Gamify Tech-Free Time Phones and tablets aren’t just a time suck—they also wreak havoc on our sleep.

Instill a no-bedroom policy for every family member, default to old-fashioned

alarm clocks and put devices in a common lockdown area at night—or better yet, install a system like an Aro box, which charges and locks devices while also rewarding you for not using them for a set amount of time (its app gives points to users who achieve their tech goals). Likewise, find ways to reward yourselves for meeting your “unplugging” goals. Go out for ice cream after completing a family read-aloud; chart how many hours you spend outside in a year (1000HoursOutside.com has some great printables); or sign up for a family 5K as you complete a Couch to 5K training program.

By doing so, we’re training our brains to recognize that it feels good to make good choices. And unlike digital rewards that require no real effort on our part, making good choices provide a feeling of true accomplishment.

Get Back to Being a Parent (and a Kid) Parents trying to create digital safeguards for their children quickly become full-time tech monitors. The role can be exhausting, time-consuming and produce a lot of conflict

between parents and kids. There is no sanity saver like taking a complete and total break.

Regain time to enjoy one another’s company and discuss FOMO. What’s really more disappointing: Seeing online what others are doing without you, or being blissfully ignorant? It’s important to recognize that the biggest predictor of your child’s tech habits is your own tech habits. Are your digital habits worthy of emulation? If not, put safeguards in place for yourself. One of my favorite resources is a tutorial on author Erin Loechner’s website (OptOutFamily.com) on making your smart phone a dumb phone.

Learn Together Spend your time offline learning about digital safety and develop a family code of conduct. Expound on when and how to give out personal information, appropriate online etiquette and what to do in sticky online situations. One of my favorite resources for younger kids is Good Pictures Bad Pictures by Kristen A. Jenson. In recent years, Dr. Nicholas Kardaras’ books Glow Kids: How Screen Addiction Is Hijacking Our Kids—and How to Break the Trance

and Digital Madness: How Social Media Is Driving Our Mental Health Crisis—and How to Restore Our Sanity have been required reading for my teenagers.

Find Your People Establishing a healthy relationship with technology is an ongoing battle. Surrounding yourself with other families who are seeking to do the same will be crucial to your success (and theirs!). Reach out to families within your school, neighborhood or church to see if they would like to join you in either a digital detox or in taming the digital beast on a daily basis. I’ve found that while many parents aren’t happy with their family tech habits, they allow them because social pressure is so heavy. When they meet other families who are searching for a better way, they’re happy to hop on board. Joining forces doesn’t just provide moral support for parents; it also gives kids a chance to be kids without the pressure of being posted on social media or being left out while other kids are on devices. For further help, consider joining a Screen Strong community (ScreenStrong.org).

CONSIDER THIS Fasts don’t have to be all-or-nothing— you can customize them to the needs of your family. Consider these forms of elimination:

Evenings: Shut devices off before dinner is on the table and keep them off until morning.

Weekends: Put devices away for the weekend or even one day a week.

30-Day Challenge: Take a month to unplug.

Platform: Fast from a specific app or device for a set amount of time.

Group Challenge: Ask a group of friends to join you for a set amount of time (and have fun together instead!).

Lauren Greenlee is an Olathe boymom of four who is ever striving for a healthy relationship with technology. kcparent.com march 2025

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LIFE SKILLS EVERY CHILD NEEDS “Life Skills Every Child Needs” is a seven-part series to help you raise happy and successful kids. Based on the book Mind in the Making by Ellen Galinsky, the series condenses years of research in children’s brain development and learning for your action as a parent or caregiver. Find more profoundly helpful resources at MindInTheMaking.org

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Happy and Successful Kids Life Skill 7:

BECOMING A SELF-DIRECTED, ENGAGED LEARNER

A

t some point, children learn they can forge ahead to gain knowledge wherever their interests lead. The earlier this happens, the better. When they no longer wait for assignments, but ask their own questions and seek answers independently, it’s a sign that they’ve developed internal motivation.

This is an energized type of learning and often, it’s collaborative with another student or a team of learners.

Great teachers build on the unique interests of their students and allow them to pursue answers to their questions.

Parents can do the same and provide materials that support their child’s interests. Whether it’s dinosaurs, space or the habitats of favorite animals, you can keep the fires of learning alive by encouraging your child to follow his interests.

Here are some ways to promote selfdirected learning: Establish a trusting relationship with your child. Safety is important in encouraging the freedom to learn.

Children who are fearful or insecure are not free to engage in explorations that lead to learning. Teach your child that errors or mistakes are just part of the pathway to better understanding and further learning.

It’s not just okay to make mistakes—it’s important to do so.

Help your child set and work toward her own goals. She’ll learn that the world is an interesting place and that she can explore it on her own. Extend conversations about the interests she voices. If she notices insects on your neighborhood walk, take the time to find a book about insects on your next library visit. Make an honest effort to answer

her questions about the way the world works—and when you don’t know, use that opportunity to follow up with appropriate research to share with her.

Immerse your child in learning situations that allow him to truly engage, not just observe. For example, it’s a better learning experience to visit a zoo than to look at animal pictures in a book. As an extension of the zoo visit, encourage your child to draw animals, write about animals, create an elephant habitat, learn about the various kinds of elephants and their differences, etc.

Go beyond the facts—extend learning by asking who, what, where and why questions.

Some children will follow up on a topic by engaging in creative fictional extensions, such as writing a play or skit about animals.

Other children may follow up with factual, nonfiction extensions such as charts and graphs, reports or artistic depictions of real animal behaviors. Both kinds of extensions are valuable learning experiences.

Help your child to practice, synthesize and generalize. New learning takes practice, but it also takes curiosity. Children learn through exploration and through sharing what they’ve learned with others. If your kid knows she will have a chance to share her learning with others, she’ll be more motivated to broaden her knowledge base and prepare a more interesting and complete presentation. Parents make a great audience.

Help your child become increasingly accountable. Go beyond testing to fostering his internal desire to learn. Praise strategies and efforts, not merely arriving at the right answer. You can only encourage this kind of accountability when you know the work your child does in learning situations. Some

of this work will happen at school and some at home, but as a parent, it is your job to be aware of his projects and interests and follow up. Let your kid know you care about his learning.

Help your child find a community of learners. It might be a classroom, your family or another group. In situations where each person contributes to the success of the group, the learning lasts a lifetime. When your child collaborates with others, the experiences are cemented in her learning memory banks.

Support your child’s “lemonade stand” efforts. It might be selling 100 cups of lemonade, reading 150 books in a year or running a mile. If your child wants to set a goal and work to reach it, your support is important. Help monitor his progress and celebrate when he meets his goal.

Watching fully engaged learners is a wonderful thing. The excitement, motivation and learning that takes place will benefit your child all through life. In taking on a challenge, making a hypothesis, testing out possible solutions and coming to a conclusion, children are learning grown-up skills.

This sort of self-directed, focused learning is only possible when a foundation for learning is well in place.

Children will reach their potential when they engage in this highly productive kind of learning.

Jan Pierce, M.Ed., is a retired teacher and the author of Homegrown Readers and Homegrown Family Fun. Find Jan at JanPierce.net.

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STAYCATIONS IN KC

Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium

L

ooking for a fun and affordable family getaway? A great vacation may be closer than you think!

A family staycation offers a wonderful opportunity to bond, relax and create lasting memories without the stress of travel. While it’s easy to take them for granted in the midst of our daily routines, Kansas City offers a variety of activities and attractions for families with kids of all ages.

The key to a successful staycation is planning ahead! Here are some suggestions to inspire your next family staycation:

Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium: Home to over 1,700 animals and a diverse range of species from around the world, the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium is the perfect destination for the animal

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lovers in your family. From Polar Bear Passage, to the Australian outback exhibit, to the Sobela Ocean Aquarium and more, there are plenty of opportunities for animal encounters!

Crown Center: Crown Center is full of great staycation attractions, and The Coterie Theatre is a family favorite. Their upcoming show is Cinderella: A Salsa Fairy Tale (March 19–May 4), a contemporary Latin American twist on the classic story. For a dose of interactive fun, check out Snoopy and the Red Baron (Feb. 8–May 4), an exhibit for all ages featuring Peanuts artwork and activities for children. Afterward, delight the whole family with a meal at the everpopular Fritz’s Railroad Restaurant!

Crown Center

Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art:

World War I Museum: For an outing

As both a Kansas City landmark and a cultural hub, Nelson-Atkins a must-visit for families. Kids and adults alike will enjoy discovering 5,000 years of art, including ancient artifacts, European masterpieces and contemporary works. Make a day of it by taking a picnic to the Sculpture Park outside—it’s the perfect spot to relax while letting the kids burn off some energy.

with an educational bent, check out the World War I Museum at Liberty Memorial.

With exhibits that delve into the causes, consequences and human impact of the Great War, the museum appeals to all ages, but kids will especially enjoy the Hands-On History program (Saturdays, 11:00), in which visitors are invited to handle Great War artifacts.

Crossroads Arts District: Beyond the

KidScape

KidScape: Your kids will love playing and learning at this interactive children’s museum located inside the Johnson County Museum. They can explore different career paths, shop at a grocery store and even build a house in the hands-on exhibits!

Urban Air Adventure Park: Whether you want to soar through the air on trampolines or conquer challenging obstacle courses, Urban Air has something for everyone in the family. The park offers a diverse range of activities, including climbing walls, laser tag and virtual reality experiences. With two locations in the metro (Overland Park and Lenexa), it’s a great option for indoor play.

Sea Life Kansas City and Legoland Discovery Center: Take the family on an underwater adventure and encounter over 250 marine species at Sea Life.

The highlight of the aquarium is the 180-degree ocean tunnel, where you can watch sharks and other sea creatures swimming overhead. Right next door at Legoland Discovery Center, you can ride thrilling rides, explore interactive play zones and, of course, build with Lego bricks! Kids can even learn building techniques from Lego experts at the Master Builder Academy.

Nelson, check out KC’s local arts scene by exploring the Crossroads’ numerous galleries, studios and shops. The best time to do this is on First Fridays, when you can enjoy live music, food trucks and special exhibitions. To avoid the stress of finding on-street parking (and to make the whole experience even more fun), ride the KC Streetcar to the Crossroads stop!

Parks: Make your staycation complete by getting out in nature via one (or more!) of KC’s beautiful parks and green spaces.

For example, Loose Park contains a wide range of family-friendly amenities, such as a playground, sprayground and historic monuments from the Battle of Westport (including a Civil War cannon). If you’re planning a walk or a family bike ride, check out Riverfront Heritage Trail, which offers beautiful views of the Missouri River.

Legoland Discovery Center

Bonus Staycation Ideas • Choose a theme, such as a favorite movie or historical period, to add excitement to your staycation.

• Create a loose schedule to help you plan activities and avoid boredom.

• Clean and declutter your home to create a serene and inviting atmosphere for your “getaway.”

• Create a spa day at home by preparing soothing baths, creating DIY spa treatments and practicing mindfulness activities.

Mia McCole enjoys writing about family adventures in KC. For more family fun in the Kansas City metro, follow her on Instagram @the_mccole_clan. kcparent.com march 2025

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Rainy Day Rescues

With a smidge of creativity and determination to dig deep, you can keep your sanity and keep your children entertained!

I

t’s raining, it’s pouring … life feels very boring! Sighs can be in steady supply, as we have just come out of winter in the Midwest only to head straight into our rainy season. If your family is like our family, we are tired of being indoors!

Though you may have reached the bottom of the idea barrel for coming up with fun, rainy days don’t have to be boring. With a smidge of creativity and determination to dig deep, you can keep your sanity and keep your children entertained!

Sensory play Sensory play is so beneficial for kids, as it promotes free exploration, sparks creativity and piques curiosity. These are some of our family’s favorites:

Baking soda and vinegar. Use eye droppers to drip vinegar tinted with food coloring onto a thick layer of baking soda in a pan. Watch it bubble up over and over again. Make little

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paths or tiny volcanoes with your fingers. Endless entertainment and squeals of delight here!

Shaving cream. Buy inexpensive shaving cream at the dollar store and let your children draw in it on wax paper or a cookie sheet. Bonus: it smells lovely too!

Bowl of soapy water. Spread out a bunch of towels on the floor and give your kids different sized bowls filled with soapy water. Provide them with a few straws, measuring spoons and cups, and they will have loads of fun!

Indoor fun If you feel like a prisoner in your own house or have totally hit your “fun” limit, there’s nothing wrong with heading out somewhere. We are fortunate to live in an area where indoor options abound, so take advantage of it!

Backyard Specialists. Located in Olathe, this retailer offers open play on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 10:00–5:00, for $2 cash per child.

Wonderscope. Lots of entertainment here for children of different ages.

Bonus: Caleb’s Breakfast & Lunch is located a stone’s throw from Wonderscope, so you can grab a meal before or after your visit!

Indoor pools. Matt Ross as well as Olathe’s and Lenexa’s community centers have great indoor pools with a variety of things to do. Bring snacks and you should be golden for a while!

Open Gym. Kaw Prairie Community Church offers a free open gym on Wednesdays and Thursdays. Foundry Church offers a free open gym time as well that is open to the public (check their calendar to be sure there isn’t a private event).

Get active These “stuck inside” days can tax everyone, so try to get active. Even just five minutes can change the climate in your home when dispositions start to get dicey.

Dance party. Turn on some tunes and turn the volume up loud! Let your kids dance until their hearts are content.

Obstacle course. Have your kids design obstacle courses and teach each other the routes through. They can use cushions, ottomans, blankets and more.

Or turn on the “Floor Is Lava” song on your Alexa or phone and follow the directions! Our 5-year-old loves it!

Build a fort. Go back to the good ol’ days and let kids make pillow and blanket forts using chairs or whatever furniture you have close by for the structure. You’ll be an even cooler mom if you “let” them picnic inside it, too, for lunch!

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Stair slide. If you really want to throw caution to the wind, let your kids make a slide on your stairs. Eeek!—I know.

But a little cardboard and creative magic with a whole lot of pillows and blankets could provide for some really fun times.

Crafts Even if you don’t consider yourself crafty, giving your kids a chance to explore with supplies is great for their development.

Recycled items. Use items for a makerspace you set up for inventions or for building.

Rock painting. You can buy rock painting kits cheaply or go out and find some of your own. These are fun to paint on a rainy day then leave at a park or trail once the weather has cleared up.

Coffee filters. We (myself included) love painting on coffee filters with watercolors. Paint them as they are

or cut them into hearts or clouds or whatever fun, thematic shape you’d like.

Then hang them up in a window for some added pops of color!

And remember, don’t be afraid to let your kids entertain themselves or even to be bored. It’s actually really good for them.

However, if all else fails and you find your day going south quicker than you thought, ask your kids what they want to do. When my 8-year-old saw I was writing this article, her suggestion? Go out and play in the rain! Leave it to a kid to suggest that … but our kids have done it, and guess what?

They loved it. They were soaking wet, lying down in puddles and giggling with a delight I couldn’t help but smile at.

Julie Collett is a mom of four in Overland Park. She enjoys doing crafts with the kids on rainy days just as much as she enjoys letting them entertain themselves!

TONS MORE ADVENTURES ONLINE! Follow KC Parent Magazine on social media to discover even more events, crafts and exclusive giveaways that you won’t want to miss!

Like us on Facebook Facebook.com/KansasCityParent // Repin us on Pinterest Follow us on X @KCParent // Follow us on Instagram Instagram.com/KCParentMagazine Subscribe to our FREE e-newsletter at KCParent.com kcparent.com march 2025

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R

ight after college, I had the incredible opportunity to live and work in Quito, Ecuador, for six unforgettable weeks. It was truly a oncein-a-lifetime experience.

During my time there, I was fully immersed in South American architecture, music, the Spanish language and the vibrant local culture. One of my favorite discoveries was an empanada stand I passed every day after work—I couldn’t resist stopping for a fried treat almost daily!

While taking my family to Quito might not be easy, I can share a taste of that beautiful culture right here in Kansas City—along with many others. Forget the plane tickets! This spring, hop in the car and explore the world through Kansas City’s rich array of multicultural destinations and events.

quiet moment of reflection, visit the Korean War Memorial, a serene space downtown honoring the sacrifices of those who served in the Korean War.

Europe

Europe’s culture is a rich tapestry of ancient traditions, art, history and cutting-edge innovation shaped by its diverse nations and civilizations. For a taste of French culture, head to the French Market, where you can savor classic French treats like croissants and macarons, or pick up French-inspired home goods.

As March rolls around, Kansas City comes alive with St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, including the lively St. Patrick’s Day Parade down Broadway Street and the Snake Saturday Parade and Festival in North Kansas City. You can also visit the Irish Center of Kansas City for traditional Irish music sessions, cultural demonstrations and family-friendly events that celebrate Irish heritage. Finally, for a dining experience with a Mediterranean flair, try Meddy’s, which offers delicious vegan and gluten-free options made from high-quality ingredients as well as inexpensive, hearty kids’ meals.

Global Adventures in KC

Asia

Asian culture is a vibrant tapestry of ancient traditions, spirituality and diverse languages, where art, food and festivals honor deeprooted histories. On April 27, immerse yourself in India’s rich culture at Passport to India, an annual event at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art that offers live dance and music performances, art demonstrations and hands-on activities. Nearby, the bustling City Market in the River Market district is a culinary and cultural destination. Stop by Al-Habashi for a casual meal of Middle Eastern and South Asian dishes, or browse their market for spices, grains, halal meats and fresh produce that capture the region’s flavors. For a

KC Parent Pro Tip: The French Market is our preferred date night location. Go just before closing to grab gourmet goodies like cheese, wine and pastries, then head to a nearby park for a picnic.

For a cozy indoor option, pair your market finds with candlelight at home and enjoy a laid-back, French-inspired evening together!

Passport to India at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art

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introduction to Venezuelan cuisine. And for an extra dose of South American pride, don’t miss Opening Day at Kauffman Stadium on March 27, where Royals players from South and Central America bring international flair to the field.

KC Parent Pro Tip: When attending a Royals game, arrive early to let the kids enjoy the Outfield Experience, a family-friendly area with activities like a mini golf course, carousel and playground. We like to pack empty water bottles to fill at the stadium’s hydration stations to keep everyone comfortable. Don’t forget to use a clear, see-through bag!

Banksia Bakehouse and Cafe

Australia

Australian culture is a dynamic mix of Indigenous traditions, British heritage and modern multicultural influences marked by a love of sports, outdoor adventure and a relaxed lifestyle. In Kansas City, you can catch a taste of this laid-back Aussie spirit at Banksia Bakehouse and Cafe, a cozy spot known for its fresh pastries, hearty breakfasts and specialty coffee, where the menu combines classic Australian flavors with local ingredients in a warm, inviting setting. For a glimpse into Australian wildlife, visit the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium, which showcases animals native to Australia, including kangaroos, koalas, emus and Tasmanian devils, with an immersive enclosure designed to replicate the outback. Powell Gardens also offers a taste of Australia’s unique natural beauty right here at home by featuring Australian plants like eucalyptus and banksia in dedicated areas.

North America

Cedar Cove Feline Conservatory and Education Center

North America’s cultures are a vibrant tapestry of Indigenous heritage, immigrant influences and a shared spirit of freedom and diversity that spans the continent. Discover the United States’ musical heritage by visiting the American Jazz Museum in the historic 18th & Vine district. The museum features a variety of interactive displays for children, including sound boards and visual timelines which allow kids to explore the roots and rhythms of jazz. To get a fresh taste of Mexico, grab a bite to eat at Yoli Tortilleria, an artisan tortilla shop renowned for its authentic, hand-crafted corn and flour tortillas made from traditional, highquality ingredients. Visit The Coterie Theatre at Crown Center to see Cinderella: A Salsa Fairy Tale from March 19–May 4. This Latin American version of the classic Cinderella story features characters from Puerto Rico and the United States who must learn to communicate despite their linguistic and cultural differences.

Africa

South America

While we may not always be able to take our children on around-the-world excursions, we can offer them a taste of diverse cultures right here in KC!

South American culture is known for lively dance, colorful festivals and diverse cuisine. Check out Empanada Madness, a Kansas City favorite that’s frequented by Royals star Salvador Perez.

Their empanadas—savory pastries with fillings like beef, chicken, cheese and other Latin-American-inspired flavors—are a delicious

Africa’s culture is a stunning blend of thousands of ethnic traditions, languages, music styles and art forms, with community and storytelling woven into customs across the continent. For a unique encounter with African wildlife, head to Cedar Cove Feline Conservatory and Education Center, where you can view majestic African lions, sleek servals (smaller wildcats native to Africa), tigers, leopards and more. Kansas City is also home to African Dream Cuisine located inside Lenexa Public Market. The owners, originally from Cameroon, bring the flavors of West Africa to the community in a warm and welcoming environment.

KC Parent Pro Tip: Visit the Lenexa Public Market on Wednesdays from 5:00–8:00 for Family Night. Our kids love the coloring pages, balloon artists and games. As parents, we like the dinner specials from select merchants.

Allie Cole, a Kansas City native, enjoys experiencing new cultures with her husband and two daughters in their home in Lenexa. kcparent.com march 2025

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march

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

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

CALENDAR

Snoopy and The Red Baron at Crown Center

celebrate

imagine

explore

wonder

dream

Experience the Native American Cultural Celebration on March 2 at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Enjoy Indigenous traditions through art, dance and music at this free family festival.

Take flight with Snoopy and The Red Baron, open through May 4 at Crown Center.

Explore the beloved beagle’s daring WWI adventures as the Flying Ace through interactive exhibits, artwork and memorabilia.

Experience 1860s farm life at Living History, March 14 at Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop and Farm.

Enjoy stagecoach rides, hands-on demos and interactive fun for the whole family!

Step into a magical world at Maya and the Magic Ring, running through March 30 at Polsky Theatre. This familyfriendly opera by Lyric Opera KC blends adventure and music in an enchanting tale.

Step into a world of magic at Disney on Ice: Let’s Dance, running March 20–23 at T-Mobile Center.

Watch your favorite Disney characters glide across the ice in a dazzling performance for the whole family!

Mahaffie.org

JCCC.edu

DisneyOnIce.com

Nelson-Atkins.org

CrownCenter.com

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1 Saturday Kids’ Projects and Activities 9:00, Home Depot locations. Kids are invited to enjoy free hands-on DIY projects. HomeDepot.com

The Gruffalo’s Child 11:00, Starlight Theatre.

An enchanting stage adaptation of the beloved book. KCStarlight.com

2 Sunday

Little Acorns 10:00, Anita B. Gorman Discovery Center. Join volunteer naturalists for a journey through forests, streams and other magical places as they read select books. MDC.Mo.gov

Captain America: Brave New World Showings Thru March 6, Union Station Extreme Screen.

Watch Sam Wilson take up the shield in this epic Marvel adventure. UnionStation.org

Crown Center Ice Skating 10:00, Crown Center Ice Terrace. Glide into winter fun at Kansas City’s iconic outdoor skating rink! Perfect for families, friends and date nights. CrownCenter.com

Sensory Play 9:00, Urban Air Trampoline Park Overland Park. Playtime designed for children with autism and special needs to enjoy the park without loud music or flashing lights.

UrbanAirOP.com

Thomas & Friends™: Explore the Rails!

10:00, Kansas Children’s Discovery Center.

Discover the science behind trains and explore interactive Thomas & Friends™ exhibits.

KansasDiscovery.org Mother Nature Reads 10:00, Lakeside Nature Center. Bring your children for a fun morning.

Hear Mother Nature read a story and make a craft to take home. LakesideNatureCenter.org Homeschool Week 10:00, National WWI Museum and Memorial. Homeschool families enjoy discounted admission and self-guided learning. TheWorldWar.org

Native American Cultural Celebration 10:00, The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Experience Indigenous traditions through art, dance and music at this free family festival.

Nelson-Atkins.org Knox Classical School Open House 12:30, Providence Community Church. Learn about Christian, classical, collaborative education for grades K–4. KnoxKC.org Willy Wonka Jr. 2:00, Roger T. Sermon Community Center. Children’s Performing Theatre presents the musical adaptation of Roald Dahl’s classic. IndependenceMo.gov

Foster Adopt Community Group 5:30, Colonial OP Campus. A supportive group for foster and adoptive parents; childcare and dinner provided. Meets monthly. ColonialKC.org

3 Monday Sensory-Friendly Days 9:00, Johnson County Museum. This limited-occupancy session is for children and families with sensory processing differences. JCPRD.com Parents Day Out 9:30, Kaw Prairie Community Church. Free two-hour childcare for ages 2–5 in a safe, engaging environment. KawPrairie.org Mornings with Mommy: Fun with Food 10:00, Mt. Olive Lutheran Church & School.

Join our themed playdate for a unique blend of story time, learning and play.

MtOliveLutheranSchool.com Snoopy and The Red Baron Noon, Crown Center. Explore Snoopy’s adventures as the WWI Flying Ace with art, memorabilia and activities.

CrownCenter.com Lego Builders’ Club 6:30, Olathe Downtown Library. Join other Lego enthusiasts for cooperative projects and challenges.

OlatheLibrary.org

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Orchid Delirium March 1– April 13, Powell Gardens. Savor hundreds of rotating blooms at this indoor botanical exhibit. Open Wed.– Sun., 9:00–5:00. PowellGardens.org

4 Tuesday Junie B. Jones: The Musical Thru April 12, Union Station. Join Junie B. on her first-grade adventures. UnionStation.org Little Explorers 9:00, Tony Aguirre Community Center. Bring your little one for an hour of exploration with self-guided activities.

KCParks.org Preschool Indoor Playground 9:30, Merriam Community Center. Ride and slide with us in our indoor playground. Merriam.org Discovery Day at the Arboretum 10:00, Overland Park Arboretum and Botanical Gardens. Little explorers are in for a treat as they immerse themselves in nature and creativity. OPKansas.org Wild Adventures for Preschoolers 10:00, Prairie Park Nature Center. Stories, activities and information about animals and their habitats.

LawrenceKS.org

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Fitness Checkup 6:00, Lenexa Rec Center.

Certified personal trainers assess weight and body fat percentage and conduct fitness tests in this free community event.

Lenexa.com

5 Wednesday Big 12 Women’s Basketball Championship Thru March 10, T-Mobile Center. Watch top teams compete for the title in this thrilling tournament. T-MobileCenter.com Young Explorers: It’s a Bug’s Life 9:00, Lenexa Rec Center. Jump into the world of bugs as we learn about different species and their habitats.

Lenexa.com

Giggle Time 10:00, Tomahawk Ridge Community Center. Free kids’ performances with music, stories and puppets. OPKansas.org

Orchid Delirium 9:00, Powell Gardens. Immerse yourself in a tropical oasis featuring a stunning display of orchids. PowellGardens.org

Tails, Tales and Trails 10:30, Prairie Oak Nature Center. Enjoy a nature-themed story time and nature walk! Leawood.org

Story-Craft-Open Play 10:00, Kaw Prairie Community Church. Enjoy story time, themed crafts and open play in the gym and playplace— a fun learning experience for kids! KawPrairie.org

Open Gym Noon, 360 Gymnastics. Enjoy an open gym with your toddler. KC360Gym.com

6 Thursday Bright Star Thru March 8, Avila University’s Goppert Theater. Experience a heartfelt musical with a book by Steve Martin and music and lyrics by Steve Martin and Edie Brickell.

CultureHouse.com Thursday Toddler Time at Ceramic Cafe 10:00, Ceramic Cafe. Toddlers 5 and under get to paint one of our selected items for just $12.

CeramicCafeKC.com Crown Center Ice Skating 10:00, Crown Center Ice Terrace. Glide into winter fun at Kansas City’s iconic outdoor skating rink! Perfect for families, friends and date nights. CrownCenter.com

You’re an expert on your kids.

We’re experts on mental health.

Camber has the resources you need to ensure your kids live balanced, healthy and resilient lives.

Visit cambermentalhealth.org/resources for practical tips, info about common mental health disorders and so much more from our mental health experts.

Toddler Town 10:00, Roger T. Sermon Community Center. An indoor program for children ages 5 and under. IndependenceMo.gov

7 Friday Build the Thrill Thru Apr. 27, Legoland Discovery Center Kansas City. Build a race car. Create a Minifigure. Race on the track. Celebrate on the podium. Book now: LegolandDiscoveryCenter.com/KansasCity Breakfast with the Animals 9:00, Prairie Park Nature Center. Enjoy a wild morning meeting amazing animals up close while learning all about them! LawrenceKS.org Preschool Splash 9:30, Blue Valley Rec Center. Kids 5 and under plus a caregiver are invited to enjoy the heated recreation pool.

BlueValleyRec.org Toddler Time 10:00, Blue Springs Fieldhouse.

Children under 5 can play inside with cars, scooters, slides and a playhouse.

BlueSpringsGov.com March Marvels: A Free Autism-Friendly Play Day 4:00, Success on the Spectrum (Pleasant Valley). Meet Marvel heroes and enjoy activities and food. SuccessOnTheSpectrum.com Club SciKidz Camp Jurassic 4:30, IDEA Space.

Campers learn about dinosaurs, their habitats, rocks and fossils. KansasCity.ClubSciKidz.com Crafternoon for Kids 4:30, Indian Creek Library. Fun after school craft activity for kids.

OlatheLibrary.org Moms’ Night Out 6:00, Lenexa Baptist Church.

Enjoy dinner, games and creative activities with fellow moms. LenexaBaptist.com Cub Scout Night 6:00, Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium. Scouts ages 6+ enjoy night hikes, s’mores and badge activities. Bring your own tent. KansasCityZoo.org

Camber can help.

(913) 890–7468 www.cambermentalhealth.org

EXPLORE A DIFFERENT

PATH

Christ-Centered, Classical, Collaborative Education in Johnson County • Grades K-4, and growing • 6:1 student-teacher ratio • Hybrid model: Two days on campus, three days at home • Member of the Society for Classical Learning

Preview our robust curriculum and start the application process at an upcoming info meeting: Sunday, March 2 | 12:30 pm RSVP and learn more at knoxkc.org

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Family Tree Nursery’s Open House Event Mar. 15–16, Family Tree Nursery (Overland Park). Join KC Wolf and Mr. Stinky Feet to celebrate with festivities for the whole family to enjoy! FamilyTreeNursery.com

First Fridays in the Crossroads 7:00, Crossroads Art District. Art galleries, retailers and other participating art venues showcase art from 7:00–9:00. KCCrossroads.org How to Train Your Dragon™ in Concert Thru March 9, Kauffman Center. Watch the epic adventure unfold on the big screen with a live performance. A magical night for all ages!

KauffmanCenter.org

8 Saturday The Science of Guinness World Records Opens today, Union Station. Be amazed.

Be amazing. Look into the science behind mesmerizing accomplishments.

UnionStation.org Build the Thrill Thru Apr. 27, Legoland Discovery Center Kansas City. Build a race car. Create a Minifigure. Race on the track. Celebrate on the podium. Book now: LegolandDiscoveryCenter.com/KansasCity

“Try It” Clay Class 9:00, Ceramic Cafe.

Teens and tweens can throw a pot on the wheel and create a pinch pot in this fun, hands-on pottery class.

CeramicCafeKC.com Free Day at Lanesfield Historic Site 10:00, Lanesfield Historic Site. Explore Johnson County’s oldest operating schoolhouse and learn about one-room schools in Kansas.

JCPRD.com Magical Kingdom Party 10:00, Merriam Community Center. Join two beloved princesses for royal games, story time and autographs.

Dress in your royal best! Merriam.org Lads & Lassies Contest 10:30, NKC Parks and Recreation Center. Children ages 2–7 showcase their “Irish Spirit” and charm; winners ride in the Snake Saturday Parade.

SnakeSaturday.com

Denver Biscuit Co. With

the Plaza has been a favorite for over 18 years, serving up some of the best breakfast, brunch and lunch options around. Must-Try Waffle: Nutella Banana Waffle. A crispy Belgian waffle smothered in creamy Nutella, topped with caramelized bananas, whipped cream and a dusting of powdered sugar.

MARCH 25

WAFFLE DAY

Ronnie’s Restaurant. Located in Lenexa, Ronnie’s Restaurant is a family-owned establishment known for its classic American breakfast and lunch dishes. kcparent.com

Tween/Teen Activities: Spring Crafts 1:00, Art Curiosity Studio. Ages 10–16 can enjoy creative spring-themed crafts in a fun and inspiring environment. ArtCuriosityStudio.com

Eggtc. This local icon near

locations in Westport and downtown Overland Park, Denver Biscuit Co. is renowned for its hearty and flavorful breakfast offerings.

Must-Try Waffle: The Franklin Waffle. A savory waffle layered with crispy bacon, cheddar cheese and a buttermilk fried chicken breast, smothered in house-made sausage gravy.

56 march 2025

Hands-On History 11:00, National WWI Museum and Memorial. Guests of all ages are invited to handle Great War artifacts. TheWorldWar.org

Must-Try Waffle: Cinnamon Roll Waffle. A warm, cinnamoninfused waffle swirled with brown sugar and butter, topped with vanilla icing and served with a side of maple syrup.

The Big Biscuit. With multiple locations across the Kansas City area, The Big Biscuit is renowned for its generous portions and classic breakfast favorites. Their menu features a variety of hearty options.

Must-Try Waffle: Red, White & Blue. A blueberry waffle topped with strawberries, bananas and whipped cream.

MTC Kids Jam—Pierce Freelon 11:00, Polsky Theatre. A free family concert blending hip-hop, jazz and soul. JCCC.edu

Chick-In Waffle. With locations in Lawrence, Independence, South KC and Westport, Chick-In Waffle offers a unique fusion of flavors, combining tender, juicy chicken with your choice of Belgian or bubble waffles.

Must-Try Waffle: Asian Chili Chicken and Waffle. Fried chicken tossed in a sweet barbecue sauce, served atop a waffle and garnished with chives.

9 Sunday Free Day at Toy and Miniature Museum 10:00, The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures. Enjoy free admission and explore a world of toys and miniatures.

ToyAndMiniatureMuseum.org

Preschool Indoor Playground 9:30, Merriam Community Center. Ride and slide with us in our indoor playground. Merriam.org Pay for Play 10:00, Backyard Specialists. Plan a playdate for your children and their friends at the amazing showroom! BackyardSpecialists.com

Cedar Cove: Public Tours 11:00, Cedar Cove Feline Conservatory. See these epic animals and learn about their characteristics and behaviors with an experienced guide.

SaveOurSiberians.org

Little Explorers Club: Rock Cycle 10:15, Museum at Prairiefire. Learn about igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic rocks and how the rock cycle transforms them through exciting activities. VisitTheMAP.org

Dirty Dancing in Concert 7:00, Yardley Hall.

Experience the classic film with live music.

JCCC.edu

12 Wednesday

10 Monday Inspired Play 8:30, Inspired Play Cafe. Attend a two-hour play session in this fun, educational and nurturing environment where little ones can explore while caregivers enjoy the calming cafe. InspiredPlayCafe.com

11 Tuesday Big 12 Men’s Basketball Championship Thru March 15, T-Mobile Center. The road to victory heats up as top teams battle for the championship title. T-MobileCenter.com

13 Thursday Turtle Rescue Team Event Thru April 13, Sea Life Kansas City. Discover how to find, feed, track and help sea turtles. Information at VisitSeaLife.com/Kansas-City We the People Exhibit 9:00, National Archives at Kansas City. Explore how archival records reflect the lives of Americans and the nation’s history through five thematic sections. Archives.gov Toddler Town 10:00, Roger T. Sermon Community Center. An indoor program for children ages 5 and under. IndependenceMo.gov

Gym for Me 9:00, Lenexa Community Center.

Provides kids a place to run, ride and play while making new friends. Lenexa.com

Little Leprechauns’ Fest 10:00, Mill Creek Activity Center. Children ages 2–5 can enjoy treasure hunts, shamrock crafts and rainbow games filled with leprechaun mischief. JCPRD.com

Retro Story Time 10:00, Johnson County Museum. Preschoolers love stories from long ago read by a special guest from the 1950s AllElectric House! Craft included. JCPRD.com

Destination Solar System Noon, Science City.

A thrilling space tour set in 2096 exploring planets, moons and the sun. UnionStation.org

Homeschool Swim 10:00, Powell Community Center. Enjoy indoor pool time with access to shallow water and play equipment, including a lazy river, mushroom and slide.

MissionKS.org

14 Friday Kids’ Day Out 8:00, Johnson County Museum.

Hands-on history fun with games, exploration and KidScape play. Drop off and pick up anytime. JCPRD.com

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Club SciKidz Camp Jurassic 4:30, IDEA Space.

Campers learn about dinosaurs, their habitats, rocks and fossils. KansasCity.ClubSciKidz.com Kids’ Night Out 6:00, Shawnee Civic Centre.

Kids ages 5–11 are welcome to join us for a special night of dinner, games, crafts, free play, a snack and a movie. CityOfShawnee.org

15 Saturday Spring Open House Event 10:00, Family Tree Nursery Overland Park. Enjoy food trucks, live music, kids’ activities and creative garden displays. FamilyTreeNursery.com Little Acorns 10:00, Anita B. Gorman Discovery Center. Join volunteer naturalists for a fantastic journey through forests, streams and other magical places as they read select books.

MDC.Mo.gov

MUSEUM HOURS Monday - Saturday 9am - 4:30pm

Museum

Animal Homes: A Native Wildlife Event 10:00, Lakeside Nature Center. Discover how animals build their homes with live animal encounters and activities. LakesideNatureCenter.org

8788 Metcalf Ave Overland Park, KS JCPRD.com/Museum

Portland Thorns at Kansas City Current 11:45, CPKC Stadium. Kick off the NWSL season as the Current host the Thorns in their home opener.

KansasCityCurrent.com Shamrock Skate 2:00, Line Creek Community Center. Family fun with skating, prizes and discounts for wearing green. KCParks.org Brookside St. Patrick’s Day Warm-Up Parade 2:00, Brookside District. Join the 43rd annual family-friendly parade featuring bands, Irish dancers and festive floats. BrooksideKC.org Snakes and Scones 6:00, Prairie Park Nature Center. Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with live snakes, tasty scones, crafts and fun activities.

LawrenceKS.org Sporting Kansas City vs. Minnesota United FC 7:00, Children’s Mercy Park. Cheer on Sporting KC as they face off against Minnesota United in an exciting MLS matchup.

SportingKC.com

16 Sunday Big Bird’s Adventure: Sensory-Friendly 10:00, Science City. A sensory-friendly planetarium show with lower volume, soft lighting and reentry options. UnionStation.org Spring Open House Event 10:00, Family Tree Nursery Overland Park. Enjoy food trucks, live music, kids’ activities and creative garden displays. FamilyTreeNursery.com

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St. Patrick’s Parade: Take Me Home Irish Roads 1:00, Johnson Drive. A time-honored tradition featuring marching groups, decorated floats and plenty of Irish spirit!

CityOfShawnee.org Naruto: The Symphonic Experience 7:30, Kauffman Center. A live orchestra brings iconic Naruto scenes to life with Toshio Masuda’s unforgettable score. KauffmanCenter.org

17 Monday Princess Dance Camp Thru March 19, Blue Valley Recreation Activity Center. Children ages 5–6 can enjoy story time, do crafts, learn a dance and meet a princess each day. Preregister at BlueValleyRec.org Muddy Mondays 10:00, Ceramic Cafe. An expert will guide you through the process of making a clay creation on the wheel.

CeramicCafeKC.com Spring Break Cookie Decorating 10:00, Olathe Downtown Library. Drop in to decorate cookies with frosting and sprinkles. OlatheLibrary.org Leavenworth St. Patrick’s Day Parade Noon, 4th & Walnut St. Celebrate the 42nd annual parade with festive floats and Irish spirit.

VisitLeavenworthKS.com

Direct Primary Care (DPC) is a membership-based model that simplifies patient care by removing the complication of insurance companies. This allows us to focus on caring for our Elite Care families with more time, better accessibility, and transparent pricing. Care is delivered directly on your terms.

Visits in-office or in the comfort of your own home

elitecarepediatrics.com |

No long waiting room times

@elitecarepedskc | 816-208-8382

Come see us on the plaza!

Plaza West Building 4600 Madison Ave, Suite 130, Kansas City, MO 64112

38th Annual Lawrence St. Patrick’s Day Parade 1:00, Downtown and North Lawrence. Enjoy floats, antique cars, pipers, dancers and more in this festive celebration.

ExploreLawrence.com St. Patrick’s Day Geocache 2:00, Antioch Park Shelter 2. Join a modern scavenger hunt as you search for leprechaun gold hidden throughout the park using a GPS device. Preregister at JCPRD.com

Little smiles can have a BIG impact!

New Patient Special Offer:

18 Tuesday

$55*

STEAM Play Tuesday 10:00, Kansas Children’s Discovery Center. Engage in hands-on activities exploring science, technology, engineering, art and math. KansasDiscovery.org

Includes exam, cleaning and x-rays *Limited Time Offer

*Services provided by a MO licensed dentist

InspireU Play Day 10:00, InspireU Children’s Discovery Center. Enjoy hands-on learning and imaginative play with interactive exhibits and a two-story playground. InspireU.com Snoopy and The Red Baron 10:00, Crown Center. Explore Snoopy’s adventures as the WWI Flying Ace with art, memorabilia and activities.

CrownCenter.com Scandal in the Schoolhouse Escape Room Noon, Lanesfield Historic Site. Solve the mystery of the missing schoolmarm in a real 1904 schoolhouse! JCPRD.com

Children’s Dental Visit

*Not valid with any other offer, discount, program/plan

Most Insurance Plans Accepted

www.TheSmileSpot.com The Smile Spot Waldo 8043 Wornall Road, Suite 203 Kansas City, MO 64114 Phone: 816-363-2900

The Smile Spot Independence 651 E US Hwy 24, Independence, MO 64050 Phone: 816-461-0300

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1

2

3

4

5

6

SIX-STOP TOUR

TREASURE AWAITS IN LEE’S SUMMIT 1. HUNT FOR GOLD

2. SHOP LOCAL

3. PLAY TOGETHER

Wear your favorite green and celebrate St. Patrick’s Day at Downtown Lee’s Summit’s Shamrock the Block on March 15. This FREE block party kicks off at 10 a.m. featuring kids games, candy, food trucks, live performances, a Gold Coin Hunt and more!

DowntownLS.org

For a unique shopping experience, Whistle Stop Coffee & Mercantile offers locally roasted coffee alongside a curated selection of home decor.

The Downtown Market Plaza, set to open in 2025, will feature a modern farmers market and outdoor event space.

My Play Café (MyPlayCafe.com) is a favorite spot to enjoy imaginative play with high-quality, fun toys and creative activities for little ones.

This space allows for a truly unique play experience as well as a truly enjoyable experience for parents.

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4. GO RETRO Arcade Alley (ArcadeAlley.com) is a retro arcade in Lee’s Summit with ’80s- and ’90s-style classic arcade games that include pinball machines, Nintendo and ATARI classics, and fun video games you grew up playing.

Guests purchase a wristband for unlimited play. They offer special familyfriendly hours and adults-only hours and serve delicious burgers and salads.

5. ENJOY FRESH AIR

6. INDULGE IN A SWEET TREAT

Celebrate spring with a visit to Lee’s Summit’s fantastic parks.

Newly renovated Williams-Grant Park includes playground equipment for kids ages 2–5 with additional options for children ages 5–12, adaptive play and outdoor musical equipment, and turf play resurfacing with play mounds.

Discover more great parks at CityOfLS.net.

A longtime staple in Downtown Lee’s Summit, Poppy’s Ice Cream & Coffee House (PoppysIceCream.com) is known for homemade ice cream, oldfashioned charm and friendly service.

This is the perfect place to enjoy a classic treat with the kids. They even offer dairy-free ice cream for guests with allergies!

19 Wednesday

21 Friday

Cinderella: A Salsa Fairy Tale Thru May 4, The CoterieTheatre. A bilingual, Latin-inspired twist on the classic tale. TheCoterie.org

Spring Container Workshop Thru March 23, Family Tree Nursery Locations. FTN supplies all the materials needed to create a beautiful combo for spring. FamilyTreeNursery.com

Barstow Admission All-School Open House 9:00, The Barstow School. Explore academic, artistic and athletic programs and meet faculty and staff during this comprehensive overview.

BarstowSchool.org Superhero Academy 9:00, Blue Valley Recreation Center. Kids train to become superheroes through fun activities.

BlueValleyRec.org Gym for Me 9:00, Lenexa Community Center.

Provides kids a place to run, ride and play while making new friends. Lenexa.com Toddle Time 9:00, Matt Ross Community Center. Playtime with an array of toys and activities for young children to enjoy.

OPKansas.org Chess Night 5:30, Olathe Downtown Library.

Come play chess with a worthy opponent.

All ages and playing levels are welcome.

OlatheLibrary.org Kansas City Mavericks vs. Utah Grizzlies 7:05, Cable Dahmer Arena. Experience the excitement as the Mavericks battle the Grizzlies on home ice. KCMavericks.com

20 Thursday

Kansas City Ballet presents Don Quixote Thru March 30, Kauffman Center. Experience the adventures of Don Quixote and his loyal squire, Sancho Panza, in this dynamic ballet.

KCBallet.org Ultimate John Williams Thru March 23, Kauffman Center. The Kansas City Symphony performs iconic scores from E.T., Superman, Star Wars and more. KCSymphony.org Olathe BBQ Championship Thru March 22, Lone Elm Park. Experience award-winning barbecue at this Kansas City Barbeque Societysanctioned event. OlatheKS.gov Edison’s Workbench 9:00, Gladstone Community Center. This workshop will spark creativity as young inventors explore famous inventions and build their own hands-on projects! Gladstone.Mo.US Campus Visit Day 12:30, Summit Christian Academy. Learn more as you check out our campus as well as our academic and other offerings. Summit-Christian-Academy.org Disney on Ice presents Let’s Dance! 1:00, T-Mobile Center. Experience the magic of Disney like never before! DisneyOnIce.com

Tot Time Swim 9:00, Powell Community Center.

Toddlers will enjoy the pool with shallow water and play equipment. MissionKS.org

Club SciKidz Camp Jurassic 4:30, IDEA Space.

Campers learn about dinosaurs, their habitats, rocks and fossils. KansasCity.ClubSciKidz.com

Thursday Toddler Time at Ceramic Cafe 10:00, Ceramic Cafe. Toddlers 5 and under get to paint one of our selected items for just $12.

CeramicCafeKC.com

Spring Paint & Sip Party 6:00, Louisburg Cider Mill. Adults can enjoy an evening of painting while sipping wine or hard cider.

LouisburgCiderMill.com

Spring Break Living History 10:00, Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop and Farm. Experience 1860s farm life with demonstrations, games and stagecoach rides. Mahaffie.org

Glow Foam Night 7:00, Blue Valley Sports Complex. Enjoy an evening of dancing and glowing foam fun. Preregister at BlueValleyRec.org.

Pay for Play 10:00, Backyard Specialists. Plan a playdate for your children and their friends at the amazing showroom! BackyardSpecialists.com

22 Saturday

Free Family Fun Night 5:00, Kansas Children’s Discovery Center. A special place where children can create, discover and learn through play. KansasDiscovery.org Disney on Ice presents Let’s Dance! 7:00, T-Mobile Center. Experience the magic of Disney like never before! DisneyOnIce.com

Spring Container Workshop Thru March 23, Family Tree Nursery Locations. FTN supplies all the materials needed to create a beautiful combo for spring. FamilyTreeNursery.com Jumperoo 8:00, Urban Air Trampoline Park. The park opens before normal operating hours to welcome kids age 5 and under to jump, bounce and crawl around safely. UrbanAir.com

Weekend Family Art-tivities 10:00, Art Curiosity Studio. Enjoy engaging craft activities for the whole family! Parents must accompany kids. ArtCuriosityStudio.com Hands-On History 11:00, National WWI Museum and Memorial. Guests of all ages are invited to handle Great War artifacts.

TheWorldWar.org Spring Tea 2:00, Vaile Mansion. Enjoy tea and learn about Victorian celebrations and customs.

IndependenceMo.gov

23 Sunday Build the Thrill Thru Apr. 27, Legoland Discovery Center Kansas City. Build a race car. Create a Minifigure. Race on the track. Celebrate on the podium. Book now: Legoland DiscoveryCenter.com/KansasCity Cedar Cove: Public Tours 11:30, Cedar Cove Feline Conservatory. See these epic animals and learn about their characteristics and behaviors with an experienced guide.

SaveOurSiberians.org Behind-the-Scenes Tour 1:30, Sea Life Kansas City. Go behind the scenes to see animal care in action. VisitSeaLife.com Disney on Ice presents Let’s Dance! 3:00, T-Mobile Center. Experience the magic of Disney like never before! DisneyOnIce.com

24 Monday Family Story Time 1:45, Indian Creek Library.

Join us for stories, songs and fingerplays for 3–5-year-olds. OlatheLibrary.org

25 Tuesday Orchid Delirium 9:00, Powell Gardens. Immerse yourself in a tropical oasis featuring a stunning display of orchids. PowellGardens.org Destination Solar System Noon, Science City.

A thrilling space tour set in 2096 exploring planets, moons and the sun. UnionStation.org Lego Builders’ Club 4:30, Olathe Downtown Library. Join other Lego enthusiasts for cooperative projects and challenges.

OlatheLibrary.org AKMA After Hours 5:00, Albrecht-Kemper Museum of Art. Free and open to all—enjoy an after-hours museum night with family fun, exhibitions, drawing activities and more!

Albrecht-Kemper.org

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Susy’s Saturday Pizza Party March 29, Culinary Center of Kansas City. In this hands-on class, kids ages 9-14 will learn to make pizza, Caesar salad and tiramisu. KCCulinary.com

26 Wednesday

27 Thursday

Inspired Play 8:30, Inspired Play Cafe.

Attend a two-hour play session in this fun, educational and nurturing environment where little ones can explore while caregivers enjoy the calming cafe. InspiredPlayCafe.com

WonderBaby & Me 9:30 and 2:00, Wonderscope Children’s Museum.

Weekly class for infants aged 3–18 months and their grown-ups, too! Register at Wonderscope.org

Capybara Meet and Greet 1:00, Tanganyika Wildlife Park. Spend quality time with the world’s largest (and friendliest) rodents up close. TWPark.com

Pay for Play 10:00, Backyard Specialists.

Plan a playdate for your children and their friends at the amazing showroom!

BackyardSpecialists.com

Family Night 5:00, Lenexa Public Market.

Enjoy free activities like coloring, board games and balloon art, plus dinner specials from select merchants.

LenexaPublicMarket.com

28 Friday

Family Movie and Craft: Matilda 5:30, Kansas City Kansas Public Library Main Branch.

Enjoy a screening of the 1996 film Matilda followed by a fun craft activity. Preregister at KCKPL.org

Donutology Day 10:00, Wonderscope Children’s Museum. Kids can decorate and enjoy fresh donuts made by Donutology. Wonderscope.org Homeschool Day 1:00, Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park. A chance for homeschool families to come in, get active and play during the day. UrbanAir.com

Grandkids’ Night Out 6:00, Resurrection Church West. Grandparents and grandkids can enjoy dinner, games and a movie.

Resurrection.Church Suspended Grace 7:00, Folly Theater.

Experience Störling Dance Theater’s dynamic two-act performance featuring a mixed repertoire and the return of the beloved classic.

StorlingDance.org

Learn more at mymcpl.org/WinterReading 62 march 2025

kcparent.com

MARCH KC TRIVIA 5

On March 3, 1860, William Rockhill Nelson, patron of this museum, was born.

A

1

March 26 is National Spinach Day. Which of these local towns is considered the Spinach Capital of the World?

A) Lenexa B) St. Joseph C) Shawnee D) Peculiar

B

2

March 14 is National Potato Chip Day. Which of these companies is in the Kansas City area?

A) Lay’s B) Ruffles C) Guy’s D) Utz

C

3

After existing for a couple decades as a river trading port, then briefly being known simply as the town of Kansas, Kansas City added the “City” to its name on March 28 of what year?

A) 1860 B) 1853 C) 1848 D) 1870

D

1 A) Lenexa

2 C) Guy’s

ANSWER KEY:

3 B) 1853

4 B) 18,972

4

Experience the Big 12 Men’s Basketball Championship at the T-Mobile Center March 11–15. What is the audience capacity at the venue?

A) 17,522 B) 18,972 C) 15,400 D) 16,350

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5 C) Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art

29 Saturday Turtle Rescue Team Event Thru April 13, Sea Life Kansas City. Discover how to find, feed, track and help sea turtles. Information at VisitSeaLife.com/Kansas-City Junior Chefs: Pizza Party 10:00, Culinary Center of Kansas City. Kids ages 9–14 will learn to make pizza, salad and tiramisu.

CulinaryCenterKC.com Kids’ Maker Market 10:00, Blue Valley Recreation Center. Young entrepreneurs sell handmade crafts in a fun, educational market.

BlueValleyRec.org Switch Saturdays 2:00, Kansas City Kansas Public Library Main Branch. Pull out the Nintendo Switch for an afternoon of gaming! KCKPL.org Maya and the Magic Ring 2:00, Polsky Theatre.

A family-friendly opera by Lyric Opera KC that blends adventure and music in a magical tale.

JCCC.edu Harlem Globetrotters 2025 World Tour 2:00, T-Mobile Center. Experience the Globetrotters’ signature spins, dunks and slams as they take on the Washington Generals.

T-MobileCenter.com

piano lessons

Learn to play piano and have FUN doing it!

AGES 7+ | ALL SKILL LEVELS | AFFORDABLE | FLEXIBLE VOICE LESSONS | EXPERIENCED TEACHER (12 YRS)

IN BI-ANNUAL RECITALS!

Destination Solar System Noon, Science City.

A thrilling space tour set in 2096 exploring planets, moons and the sun. UnionStation.org Snoopy and The Red Baron Noon, Crown Center. Explore Snoopy’s adventures as the WWI Flying Ace with art, memorabilia and activities. CrownCenter.com

31 Monday Both daytime and evening lessons available!

Call Spring Terburgh at 913-636-4472 LOCATED RIGHT OFF I-35 AND 119TH ST IN OLATHE AND IN SOUTH KCMO kcparent.com

30 Sunday

Maya and the Magic Ring 2:00, Polsky Theatre.

A family-friendly opera by Lyric Opera KC that blends adventure and music in a magical tale.

JCCC.edu

PARTICIPATE

64 march 2025

Suspended Grace 7:00, Folly Theater.

Experience Störling Dance Theater’s dynamic two-act performance featuring a mixed repertoire and the return of the beloved classic.

StorlingDance.org

Muddy Mondays 10:00, Ceramic Cafe. An expert will guide you through the process of making a clay creation on the wheel.

CeramicCafeKC.com Capybara Meet and Greet 2:00, Tanganyika Wildlife Park. Spend quality time with the world’s largest (and friendliest) rodents up close. TWPark.com

ONLINE & IN METRO GROCERY STORES

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SINCE 2002

maternity

kc’s #1 family travel guide since 2010

JANUARY- MARCH 2025 | KCPARENT.COM

ALL THINGS

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PREGNANCY

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FOR TOTS TO PLAY

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KC BABY & MATERNITY

KC GOING PLACES

A quarterly publication

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DIGITAL EDITIONS AVAILABLE AT KCPARENT.COM kcparent.com march 2025

65

T-MOBILE CENTER MAR 20 – 23 DisneyOnIce.com

jccc.edu/MTCArtsEd Box Office: 913–469–4445 Mon. – Fri. / 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

@MidwestTrustCenterJCCC @MidwestTrustCenterJCCC @MTC_JCCC

Pierce Freelon SAT. MARCH 8 / 11 AM FREE SATURDAY EVENTS specially designed with families in mind!

FREE; RESERVATIONS RECOMMENDED. Join us in the MTC lobby at 10 a.m. for art activities, followed by the hour-long concert.

Joyful music that blends hip-hop, electronic jazz, and soul — crafted for today’s modern families.

JOIN US FOR FUN FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT THIS SPRING! Tickets on sale now. Scan this code to purchase.

BE CAREFUL WHAT YOU WISH FOR! An opera for families with music by Lori Laitman and libretto by Dana Gioia.

SCHOOL SHOWS (Tickets start at $5) THUR. MARCH 27 / 10 AM & 12:30 PM FRI. MARCH 28 / 10 AM PUBLIC SHOWS (Tickets start at $10) SAT. MARCH 29 & SUN. MARCH 30 / 2 PM Free parking. No ticketing fees.

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Adams Family Foundation, Brad and Libby Bergman, Brooks and Carol Sherman, Friends of Barton P. Cohen Fund, Hall Family Foundation, JCCC Foundation, M.R. and Evelyn Hudson Foundation, , John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts Partners in Education Program, Kansas Arts Commission, Peter Goulet, and Yellow Freight System, Inc.

Every Visit is a New Adventure!

AN EXPERIENCE YOU WON’T FUR-GET! • Home to nearly 10,000 animals • Explore Sobela Ocean Aquarium • Fun for all ages in every season • Your visit helps us save wildlife around the world

NEW!

Dinosaurs Around the World coming May through August 2025!

OPEN DAILY, YEAR-ROUND kansascityzoo.org 816-595-1234