KC Baby Fall 2024

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HELP LIGHT THE WAY FOR KC TEENS DONATE Building programs for • Eating Disorders • Anxiety • Kids in Crisis • Depression • ADHD

childrensmercy.org/illuminate A 501(c)3 non-profit health system

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september 6 december 29 an enchanting nighttime journey!

Experience a mile-long spectacle of intricate lighted sculptures, crafted by 151 artisans using over 34 tons of steel and 89,000 feet of fabric.

Featuring two distinct areas: fantasy

Enchanted forest, fairy garden, dragons, and more!

Adventure Atlantis, dinosaurs, pirates, and more!

scan for info and tickets

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NICU issue IN EVERY ISSUE Craft Corner

7

Rattle On

9

Tasty Tidbits 12

BALANCING LIFE FROM THE NICU, PG. 14

Reading Recess 17 Playdates 30 Parents Night Out 34

YOUR PREGNANCY

YOUR BABY

YOUR TODDLER

8 Mac and Cheese in KC

13 Boosting Immunity

7 Painting with Corn

10 Family Favorites

16 Baby Swim Lessons

20 Engaging Your Toddler

14 Pulled Two Ways

17 Reading Recess

26 Pumpkin Patch Visit

18 Baby Name 411

22 What Should Baby Wear?

28 Must-See Fall Classics

21 Staying Hydrated

32 First Birthdays

30 Playdates

23 Product Reviews 24 Dad to Dad Insight 34 Parents Night Out

Our cover features Ryan from Kansas City.

Photo by Happy Chick Photography HappyChickPhoto.com

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SUPPORT FAMILY WITH

Boost Baby’s Immune System 13

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celebrate

FIRST

Support Family with Baby in NICU 14

birthday

Engage Your Toddler at Home 20

your toddler at home

Celebrate First Birthday 32

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baby IN

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ENGAGE

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KCPARENTWEBSITE VISIT KCPARENT.COM FOR MORE IDEAS, INFORMATION, EVENTS AND FUN! 1. Great Giveaways 2. Train Rides 3. Pumpkin Patch Guide

4. Party Guide 5. Fall Festivals

Serving the Northland Susan L. Storm MDServing the Northland forfor over years Laurie D. Riddell MD over 35 25 years Ermalyn Kubart MD Pediatric Care North Stephanie A Marx MD Kathyrn Hauptmann MD L. Storm 8781 n. platte Susan purchase drive MD Melissa J. Beard MD Laurie D. Riddell kansas city, mo 64155 MD Stephanie R. Bays DO Ermalyn Kubart MD 6. Coupons Heather J. Malone MD Years Stephanie A Marx MD 2 ~ 0 9 2 8 7. Best Christmas Lights 4 9 tel 816.587.3200 Kathleen Ballenger 1PNP Kathyrn Hauptmann MD fax 816.587.7644 Monica M. Rondeau PNP 8. Turkey Time Melissa J. Beard MD

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8781 n. platte purchase drive

Kelly Waltherkansas PNP city, mo 64155

tel 816.587.3200 fax 816.587.7644 Susan L. Storm MD www.pediatriccarenorth.com

9. Calendar of Events 10. Holiday Fun Guide

Stephanie R. Bays DO www.pediatriccarenorth.com Heather J. Malone MD Heather J. Ballenger Malone MD PNP Kathleen

Laurie E. Riddell MD

Kathleen Ballenger PNP

Ermalyn Kubart MD

Amanda Finn DO

Stephanie A. Marx MD

Nick Stasic MD

Kathryn Hauptmann MD

Monica Rondeau PNP

Melissa J. Beard MD

Veda Donner PNP

Stephanie R. Bays DO

Dee McGuire FNP kcparent.com october-december 2024

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LOCAL CONTENT

Local Contributing Writers Kim Antisdel (Liberty), Janelle Cumro-Sultzer (Manhattan), Judy Goppert (Lee’s Summit), Lauren Greenlee (Olathe), Kristina Light (Kansas City), Regan Lyons (St. Joseph), Sarah Lyons (Olathe), Lyra Thompson (Bonner Springs)

Mailing Address 11937 W. 119th #335, Overland Park, KS 66213 913.782.3238 phone • 913.681.5139 fax OUR PRODUCTS FREE | October 2024 | KCParent.com | Since 1985

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FOLIAGE TRADITIONS CLASSIC FUN

AFTER SCHOOL

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for every season

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Publisher Michael Gimotty Michael@KCParent.com

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elcome, fall. I do love all the seasons, and fall brings a refreshing respite.

With fall, I am beginning to think about the holidays. As such, I shamelessly want to encourage you to peek at Rattle On for some great gift ideas, several of which are curated and crafted here in the Kansas City area. Way to go, local parents; you’re remarkable! I’d love to hear about local makers you know— whether they craft for kids or K-State fans (another personal passion)! My email is there to the right.

My oldest arrived on the scene days prior to Christmas, and we’ve been trying to make sure her birthday is special ever since. Sarah Lyons shares some winsome First Birthday ideas, including Tips and Traditions, on pg. 32. Comparison is the thief of joy, so look around for ideas, but create what works for you! My mother-in-law makes elaborate, amazing birthday cakes to this day (even for her grown kids); I have been known to do an average icing job and stick a Fisher Price little person (or penguin) on top and call it good!

Savor the moments and make the memories as time marches on.

Speaking of comparison, if you’ve had a kiddo in the NICU, it’s hard to see past the moments of survival. While none of my babies were in the NICU, my first son didn’t hit a height/weight benchmark and was labeled “failure to thrive”; I was devastated.

That season didn’t last long (though it felt like forever in the midst of it)—he turned a corner on his own timetable and has been thriving ever since. Don’t lose hope!

Savor the seasons of life day by beautiful day. Enjoy our Kansas City community during this wonderful season. Kristina Light has compiled a few classic Autumn Must-See experiences to delight your senses (pg. 28).

KC Baby & Maternity is published four times per year: Winter (JanMarch), Spring (April-June), Summer (July-Sept) and Fall (Oct-Dec).

It is distributed free of charge throughout the Kansas City area. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written permission. KC Baby & Maternity is not responsible for statements made by advertisers or writers. All photography and letters sent to KC Baby & Maternity will be treated unconditionally assigned for publication and copyright purposes and are subject to unrestricted right to edit and comment editorially. The views expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect the views of KC Baby & Maternity.

craftcorner

painting

w

with corn on the cob

hat better way to get into the fall spirit than to create a craft with corn on the cob? This is a longer, messy project that is sure to bring big smiles to tiny faces!

Supplies:

• 1 corn on the cob per paint color (we used 3), ideally with the stalk on • Assorted paints (we used red, yellow, and orange) • Paper plates (large enough to hold your corn on the cob) • Plastic tablecloth (for easy cleanup) • Painter’s tape • Large sheet of paper or several smaller pieces of paper • Paper towels or craft towels • Optional: Craft aprons

Directions: Step one: Peel corn on the cob. Ideally, leave a piece of the stalk on the cob to create a handle. Wash and dry. Set aside.

Step two: Cover table with plastic tablecloth.

Step three: Lay out blank craft paper and tape down to tablecloth.

Step four: Pour one paint color onto each paper plate. This is a great chance to talk about primary and secondary colors!

Step five: Place corn on the cob on paper plate and rotate it like you would a paint roller.

Step six: Paint the paper!

Step seven: Allow to dry overnight and hang to display your fall family painting!

Pro tip: If you have access to a giant roll of craft paper, this would make an amazing table runner to jazz up your Thanksgiving table!

Janelle Cumro-Sultzer lives in Manhattan, Kansas with her husband, 3 children (1, 3 and 5) and 2 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 october-december 2024

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THE BEST MAC AND CHEESE ACROSS KC Enjoy all things mac and cheese with our roundup of the tastiest eateries serving the all-American comfort food in KC. Brown and Loe: Another Downtown KCMO restaurant, Brown and Loe also has popular mac and cheese dishes. A popular menu item is the smoked Gouda mac, which is often praised for its flavor and consistency. Address: 429 Walnut St., Kansas City, Mo., 64106

Lula Southern Cookhouse: This restaurant in the Crossroads is dedicated to Southern American comfort food. With items on the menu ranging from fried chicken to seafood, you have lots of options. Its mac and cheese dishes are loved by many customers.

Address: 1617 Main St., Kansas City, Mo., 64108

Cheesy Street: Cheesy Street is a Kansas City area food truck known for “gourmet grilled cheese and loaded mac & cheese.” You can get a mac and cheese entree or order it as a side. Book this food truck for your next event or visit the website to see where they’re going to be next! CheesyStreetKC.fun

Coast to Coast Pub: This restaurant, owned by the Martin City Brewing Company, serves a lot of different styles of mac and cheese, including lobster mac and cowboy mac. Both of these dishes are popular choices. Besides macaroni and cheese, you can also choose from many seafood dishes. Address: 500 E 135th St., Kansas City, Mo., 64145 Lyra Thompson is a born-and-raised Kansas girl with a passion for writing and all things local.

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kcparent.com october-december 2024

rattleon Aura Frame Photos from your phone to their frame.

Create community and engagement near and far. Add to it from anywhere!

For example, if you’re in KC and the grandparents are in Pennsylvania, set them up with the frame, get the app on your phone and post photos straight from your phone to their frame! Worth every single penny! Enjoy sharing! AuraFrames.com

Peekaboo Pillow Dreamt up by a dad in the KC metro, the Peekaboo Pillow is fabulous! I got this hoping it would help my mom hold her newest grandson, yet my sister truly appreciated it! This is the comfiest way to sit faceto-face with your baby (and give your arms a rest)! Also terrific for tummy time, feedings and sitting up. Handmade in the USA! PeekabooPillow.com

FIVE THINGS WE

RATTLE ON ABOUT CURRENTLY Compiled by Lauri Clapper

Milli Baby Towel A hands-free bath towel? Yes, please! And invented in the KC area, no less! Milli Baby is all about ease, comfort and functionality not just for the baby, but for you as the parent and caregiver. Finally—you CAN stay dry and wrangle the wet wee one. What an ingenious idea!

ShopMilliBaby.com

Jet If you ever need a little help getting something in their mouth, Jet is your new go-to! Whether you need help with medicine, formula or baby food puree, this truly innovative dispenser (that doubles as a teether) is a game-changer!

It’s mess-free and easy to grasp. And let’s be honest—it’s adorable and you’re even gonna have FUN “playing airplane”!

TheCleverBaby.com

Simply Sweet Designs Curated in the KC area, Simply Sweet is a product line of truly sweet and timeless pieces that spark joy and confidence in little girls. With charming prints and beautiful details, these will be long-loved and even cherished and passed down. ShopSimplySweet.net kcparent.com october-december 2024

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KC PARENT FAMILY

2024 WINNER

family faves Thank you to our readers who voted in KC Parent’s Family Favorites 2024!

We appreciate your support for this tradition for over 35 years.

After tabulating over 30,000 votes, we are pleased to announce the businesses which have been chosen as a KC Parent Family Favorite 2024!

Favorite Animal Attraction

Favorite Live Theater

Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium

Starlight Theatre

Favorite Children’s Museum

Favorite Family Fun Center

Wonderscope Children’s Museum of KC

Main Event

Favorite Art Museum

Favorite Garden / Nature Center

Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art

Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens

Favorite History Museum

Favorite Free Attraction

National WWI Museum and Memorial

Hallmark’s Kaleidoscope

Favorite Living History Museum

Favorite Pumpkin Patch

Missouri Town Living History Museum Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm

Carolyn’s Pumpkin Patch Johnson Farms Plants and Pumpkins

Favorite Science Museum

Favorite Agritourism Site

Science City at Union Station

Louisburg Cider Mill & Pumpkin Patch

Favorite Specialty Museum

Favorite U-Pick Farm

Negro Leagues Baseball Museum

Historic Weston Orchard

kcparent.com

10 october-december 2024

FAVORITES 2024 Favorite Free Christmas Attraction

Favorite Weekend Getaway

Crown Center Holiday Traditions

Branson, Missouri

Favorite Paid Christmas Attraction

Favorite Party Venue (for ages 0-5)

Kansas City Ballet’s Nutcracker

Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium

Favorite Festival KC Renaissance Festival

Favorite Party Venue (for ages 6-11)

Favorite New Attraction

Legoland Discovery Center Science City at Union Station

Sobela Aquarium at Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium

Favorite Place to Have a Baby in Missouri

Favorite Party Venue (for ages 12 and up)

Saint Luke’s Hospital of Kansas City

Chicken N Pickle Urban Air Trampoline Park

Favorite Place to Have a Baby in Kansas

Favorite Garden Supply / Nursery

AdventHealth Shawnee Mission

Best Emergency Room Children’s Mercy Hospital

Favorite Pediatric Dentist The Smile Spot LeBlanc & Associates

Favorite Orthodontist Fry Orthodontics

Favorite Swim School Goldfish Swim School

Favorite Tutoring Sylvan Learning

Favorite Photographer Becca Blackburn Photography

Family Tree Nursery

Favorite Farmers Market City Market

Favorite Shopping Center/ District Town Center Plaza Legends Outlets of Kansas City

Favorite Animal Rescue / Adoption KC Pet Project Wayside Waifs

Favorite Pet Day Care Woof’s Play & Stay

Favorite Pet Training & Services The Pet Connection

Favorite Pet Emergency Room BluePearl Pet Hospital

kcparent.com october-december 2024

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tastytidbits

F iesta Snacks

Having fun in the kitchen can be an easy way to get kids involved for a family-friendly activity. These Fiesta Snacks call for flavors many kids love stacked up in a way that allows them to aid in the process.

INGREDIENTS

INSTRUCTIONS

• 1 lb. chicken, chopped

1. Heat oven to 350 F.

• 1/2 c. salsa, divided

2. In skillet, cook chopped chicken until done.

• 1/4 c. sour cream

3. In medium bowl, mix cooked chicken, 1/4 cup salsa and sour cream until blended.

• 8 tortillas (8 inches) • 1/3 c. refried beans • 1/2 c. guacamole • 6 oz. shredded cheese

4. In small bowl, mix refried beans and remaining salsa until blended.

5. Lay two tortillas on baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

6. Spread chicken mixture over both tortillas. Place second set of tortillas over chicken mixture. Spread guacamole over top tortillas. Place third set of tortillas on top and spread refried bean mixture over tortillas.

Place fourth set of tortillas on top and sprinkle shredded cheese over tortillas.

7. Bake 10 minutes until cheese is melted.

Recipe courtesy of Culinary.net kcparent.com

12 october-december 2024

BOOSTING BABY’S IMMUNE SYSTEM

A

s parents, we hate to see our babies get sick. According to the Mayo Clinic, babies get six to eight colds in their first year, and even more if they go to a child care center. The good news is that every time they get sick, they develop new antibodies that will help protect them in the future. But what else can we do as parents to boost their immune systems?

Breastfeeding Breastfeeding is a good way to give your child an immune system boost. A mother develops antibodies when exposed to germs, and those antibodies are passed to the baby through breast milk. Breast milk also passes proteins, fats, sugars and white blood cells to your baby that help fight infections. Colostrum, the milk produced in the first few days of nursing, is especially rich in antibodies.

Healthy Diet Once your child is weaned, you can boost vitamins though the food they eat.

Children should be getting five servings of fruits and vegetables per day. It’s also important to avoid processed foods, added sugars and unhealthy fats. A healthy diet will help your child get vitamins such as zinc, vitamin C, A and E, all of which help boost the immune system. Talk with your doctor before giving any additional supplements to your child.

Wash Hands

Stay Hydrated

Handwashing is one of the easiest ways to protect against illness. Before feeding or touching your baby, wash your hands. As they get older, teach your children the importance of good handwashing habits—washing before eating is especially important. Kids touch absolutely everything and collect germs everywhere they go, so make sure they wash after playing outside or coming home from day care. Make sure they wash their hands with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds. Have them sing a song like “Happy Birthday” or “Mary Had a Little Lamb” to ensure they’re washing long enough.

Keeping your baby hydrated is an easy way to keep him healthy. Start with more of what she is currently consuming (breastmilk or formula) and consult with your health care provider for the best timeline to introduce water as it helps fight off illnesses by flushing toxins out of the body.

Limit Exposure Newborns are especially susceptible to germs, so avoid taking your young infant to crowded public places. You might want to avoid large sporting events, airports and shopping centers for the first couple months. You can also limit exposure to sickness by limiting visitors and making sure any visitors are symptom-free of any illness. Also, make sure all visitors wash their hands before holding your baby.

Get Outside Time outdoors is great for your baby’s immune system. Vitamin D helps boost immunity and is absorbed through sun exposure. Getting fresh air in the winter is good for your baby as well, but in small doses. Just make sure they are bundled up and protected from the cold.

Keep Clean Clean your baby’s toys and pacifiers often. It’s especially important to sanitize frequently if he or she shares toys with other children. A quick wash with warm water and dish soap should do the trick.

If your child goes to day care, ask about the facility’s toy sanitization process.

A Good Night’s Rest Adequate sleep is vital to your baby’s overall health. When we sleep, our immune system releases cytokines— proteins that fight infection and inflammation. Babies 0–3 months need 14–17 hours of sleep daily, while babies 4–12 months need 12–16 hours per day.

Regan Lyons is a girl mom and freelance writer. She lives with her husband, Cale, and daughters, Atley, 10, and Ensley, 4, in St. Joseph.

As always, please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns. kcparent.com october-december 2024

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PULLED TWO WAYS: Balancing Life with a NICU Baby and Kids at Home

“M

y heart is in three places.” Those were the words going through my mind as I drove between the hospital and our home seven years ago.

Our family grew by three overnight with the birth of our triplets in 2014. At the time we already had three young children, and because the triplets were born six weeks early, they spent time in the NICU. To make it more difficult, one of the babies was transferred to another hospital where she would have open heart surgery and stay to recover. This left us with three kids at home, two babies in a NICU 10 minutes away and one baby in a different hospital 30 minutes from home.

I felt like my heart was broken into three pieces as I tried to split my time equally while weighing who needed me most at any given moment. It was a very challenging time both emotionally and physically.

According to the National Library of Medicine, between 10 and 15 percent of births in the United States result in the baby being admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). For many parents, the baby in the NICU is not their firstborn. This creates the challenge of balancing home life, work, recovery from childbirth, and care for older children with time spent in the hospital with the baby. Attempting this balancing act creates stress for everyone involved. Kansas City families who have been in this situation have some priceless information for families who may face this challenge in the future.

Be present

For parents struggling to find a balance between home and the hospital it is always best to focus on the moment. “You can’t be both places at once, as much as you may want to be. It is important to be present in the moment,” says Gardner mother of three Jennifer Rogers. “If I was at home with my older two, that is where my focus and energy went. If I was at the NICU, the baby would be the center of my attention.”

Find a routine that works

Each family is unique and will have different schedules and needs. The key is to find a routine that will work best for you. “My 3-year-old went to day care during the day, and I spent that time at the NICU. I would spend the evening with my family at home.

This helped my 3-year-old feel normal, which kcparent.com

14 october-december 2024

transferred to my feeling more normal as well,” says Nathalie McKenzie, mother of two from Kansas City, Mo. Laura Colon, mom of three, shares a different tactic her family used: “My husband and I split the time. He went during the day, and I was usually there at night.”

Distance creates even more challenges, but routine can help there, too. “When my youngest was born at 27 weeks, we lived an hour from the hospital,” says Amber Roudebush, mother of three from Butler, Mo. “I would spend all day and night at the hospital and drive home and spend the next day and evening at home. I repeated this process for 58 days.” Figuring out some rhythm for managing this season creates the consistency that will be helpful to young children and give your life a sense of normalcy.

Your baby is in good hands

When you are away from your baby, it’s normal to have feelings of guilt and worry.

Rest assured, your child is getting the best care at the hospital with experienced NICU doctors and nurses. “I had to realize my baby was in wonderful hands even when we weren’t with him,” says Jennifer Rogers. “His nurse loved him and cared for him just as well as we would have.” Knowing this makes it easier to focus your time and energy on your older children when you are away.

This too shall pass

As hard as it is to imagine, your child will eventually leave the NICU and begin to grow and gain strength over time.

Already having a busy household with older children who need your care adds another dimension of challenge. Keep in mind that, although it seems to drag on forever, this time will pass and become a distant memory. Try to take things one day at a time and do the best you can.

NICU parents may experience guilty feelings associated with how much time is spent with the baby (or with older children), whether the mother did something wrong to cause a premature birth, or not giving their child the “normal” attention that goes along with celebrating a new family member. These feelings are very real, but parents should try to give themselves grace in the situation. Your baby is in good hands with the NICU doctors and nurses, your child’s time spent in the NICU is temporary, and your children at home know you are doing your best. Walking through the experience of having a baby in the NICU is difficult, but soon enough you will be watching your child grow and thrive at home with the older siblings.

How to Help a NICU Family Friends and family are usually willing to help a family while they face the challenge of having a baby in the NICU, but many are unsure how to lend a hand. Here are some ways to make this difficult time easier for a NICU family, especially one with other kids in the home.

Provide meals—Preparing a meal, having pizza delivered, stocking the freezer with quick-fix meals, mailing a gift card or dropping off groceries will lighten the load and give the family less to worry about.

Do yard work—A great way to help out a NICU family is to mow the lawn, shovel snow, water plants or manage the garden.

Help with the other kids (or pets)— Offer to babysit older children while the parents are at the hospital. You can also help by carpooling to school and activities, taking the kids to the park or driving the siblings to and from the hospital if visitors are allowed. If the family has pets, offer to help out with pet care.

Listen—Ask how they are feeling and how the baby is doing and just listen. Having a friend to talk to can really help.

Encourage—Let them know you think they are doing great. Parents have a tendency to blame themselves or feel like they are letting their children down.

Encouraging words can give them a big boost.

Check in—Send a text or a card and let them know you are there for them.

Sarah Lyons is an Olathe mom of six children, including 7-year-old triplets.

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

“As hard as it is to imagine, your child will eventually leave the NICU and begin to grow and gain strength over time.”

— Sarah Lyons

SOURCES: Trends in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Utilization in a Large Integrated Health Care System – PubMed (NIH.gov) kcparent.com october-december 2024

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B

abies are naturally drawn to water, and parents can capitalize on their little one’s interest through swim lessons. Swim lessons can teach babies valuable skills they’ll use both in and out of the water, including mood regulation, advanced motor skills, and improved cognitive function. Swim lessons also tout a sweet fringe benefit: bonding between parent and child. Time in the water together is free from distraction.

Phones take their rightful place, silenced and put away, while babies get skin-to-skin contact, eye contact, and delightful playtime with Mom or Dad! The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends children begin swim lessons as early as age one to protect against drowning. However, parent and baby swim lessons can begin earlier if you keep a few factors in mind.

First, seek lessons in a heated pool (or if utilizing an outdoor pool, make sure the water temperature is between 97–94 degrees), as babies can’t regulate their body temperatures well. Second, find a program that maintains good water purity. Harsh pool chemicals can compromise a baby’s delicate immune system, and little ones are at an increased risk of breathing or swallowing water. Health care professionals recommend waiting until 3–6 months to begin pool time.

kcparent.com

16 october-december 2024

BENEFITS of Swim Lessons for Babies

After which point, time is of the essence. Whereas children tend to become more fearful of swimming the older they get, babies are more willing to be in the water and can easily master life-saving skills such as floating on their backs.

Rather than teaching baby how to swim, these first swim lessons are more about training parents in water safety while providing babies ample time to gain exposure to water. Singing songs while splashing and playing lays important

groundwork for giving tots confidence in the water. Over time, classes can shift focus to early skills such as tummy time, back floating, or going underwater. Parents are often surprised at how instinctively babies will hold their breath underwater. Fear of water is often a learned response and can be thwarted through early lessons.

Beginning swim lessons early is about laying a foundation that can be built upon over time. But for many parents—particularly those who live on waterfront property or own a pool—water safety is a skill that must be taught as soon as possible. For this reason, parents may seek out alternative lessons, such as Infant Swimming Resources' self-rescue program.

Directed toward children ages 6 months to 6 years, ISR teaches students how to hold their breath, float on their back, and maintain that position until help arrives. Unlike traditional swim lessons for babies, ISR lessons are coached one-on-one while parents sit nearby. Classes are held daily and the program takes roughly six weeks to complete.

While survival techniques are key, all these methods teach foundational swimming skills that transform water from something terrifying to something terrific.

Lauren Greenlee is an Olathe boymom and freelance writer.

readingrecess Enjoy these charming board books as you celebrate holidays and milestones and snuggle up with the little one(s) you love to read to.

My Feet Go

By Ammi-Joan Paquette; illustrated by Sabrena Khadija. Best for ages 1–3.

The second book in a series that showcase the body’s amazing abilities—from the physical to the meaningful. Provide young readers with an understanding and appreciation of what their feet can do while inviting them to look beyond what’s known or obvious about their capabilities.

I Like Your Chutzpah

By Suzy Ultman; illustrated by Suzy Ultman. Best for ages 1–3.

This modern and whimsical Jewish-themed board book series is the first of its kind in incorporating both Jewish traditions and Jewish culture, offering a unique depiction of Judaism. I Like Your Chutzpah showcases and defines popular Yiddish words through a playful lens.

ABCs of the Bible

By Pia Imperial; illustrated by Isabel Foo. Best for ages 0–3.

Complete with short Bible verses, this fun and original alphabet board book makes for the perfect baby step in a little one’s journey. Featuring key biblical figures, concepts and locations, this board book offers an A-to-Z introduction to the Bible.

The Christmas Star

By Beatrix Potter; illustrated by Beatrix Potter. Best for ages 1–3.

Celebrate the holidays with Peter Rabbit in this sturdy board book! Peter Rabbit and his sisters are getting ready to celebrate Christmas! This board book captures the charming nature of Beatrix Potter's stories with beautiful illustrations and a tale that fans new and old will enjoy.

Snowmen’s Twelve Nights of Christmas

By Caralyn Buehner; illustrated by Mark Buehner. Best for ages 1–3.

The Twelve Days of Christmas has never been funnier or more chaotic as an energetic dog chases creatures up a tree. With a pitch-perfect and jaunty rhyme and illustrations chock-full of fun details, this is a classic Christmas carol told with a hilarious twist.

Compiled by Lauri Clapper kcparent.com october-december 2024

17

LIMIT THE FIELD When there are so many options on the table, it can be helpful to use guardrails such as these to narrow down the hunt: Family Namesakes: (Grandparents’ names, mother’s maiden name, Jr./Sr./ III, etc.). Naming a child after a family member doesn’t always mean giving them the full name (or even the first name!) of a revered relative. You can also honor relations with a nickname; or a name with the same meaning, first syllable, or initials. For example, Olathe mom Mallory Beem honored both her mom Norina and her mother-in-law Chris while giving her firstborn a name all her own: Nora Christine.

Baby Name 411 C hoosing the perfect name for your little one can be overwhelming.

After all, you’re giving your posterity a moniker for life! How do you go about finding the one? Here are some considerations that might help direct your search.

WHAT’S IN A NAME? Historically, the name game was a lot smaller for parents in generations past.

Laura Wattenburg, author of the Baby Name Wizard and creator of Namerology.com, has researched millions of names and the impact they have on culture, noting that the naming process has vastly shifted over the last fifty years.

“Over the past two generations, there's been a revolution in the way American parents name their children,” Wattenburg notes. “It used to be about fitting in, so most parents would choose a name from a fairly limited set of typical baby names. That was what was realistic. That was what was expected. Today, the culture is more about standing out instead of fitting in, and the options are limitless. Everyone is pushing to be unique, to be creative. And this is creating kcparent.com

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an enormous amount of pressure and a kind of decision paralysis for today's parents.”

What are common names these days?

Even that is open to interpretation. For instance, John and Mary, the most popular names of the last 500 years, aren’t even in the top 100 now. And this year’s top choices aren’t even a fraction as popular as top contenders in the last half-century. Knowing there’s no such thing as “too common” a name can take some pressure off of parents.

ASSESS YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH YOUR OWN NAME Sherri Suzanne, a New York professional baby name consultant of over twenty years, encourages her clients to first evaluate their relationships with their own names.

Did you like your name growing up? As an adult? Perhaps you have a unique spelling you’re forever having to correct; maybe you loathed being lost in a classroom with four other kids of the same name; perhaps you loved that your name had a positive meaning to live up to. Your feelings can help you determine the experience you want your child to have with their own name.

Initials: Do they spell a pleasant word or make an unfortunate combination? For instance, Nova Rae Drummond sounds lovely. But initials that phonetically spell “nerd”? Eh, not so much.

Cultural Heritage/Ethnic Names: Names that represent where you come from, a culture you married into, or the place you now call home.

Spiritual Heritage: Names of virtues, saints, or characters of faith.

Locations: Favorite destinations (countries, cities, mountains, states).

Director, producer and actor Ron Howard named all four of his children after the places they were conceived (Bryce Dallas after Dallas, TX; twins Paige Carlyle and Jocelyn Carlyle after the Hotel Carlyle in New York City; Reed Cross after a specific road).

Pop Culture: Actors, athletes, musicians, or characters from favorite books, movies or TV shows.

Spelling: Is it important that your child be able to find personalized souvenirs at gift shops, or do you prefer an alternate spelling that’s all their own?

Sibling Names: How do your children’s names look/sound side-by-side? Do you want names that come from the same era?

Start with the same letter? Have the same number of letters? Or do you prefer they have no connection whatsoever?

Nicknames: Even if you plan on calling your child by his given name, others may default to calling your child a nickname—or your child may insist on being called by one as he gets older. So make sure you like the variations that could take center stage, as well as how they sound with your last name.

Name Meanings: Names with pleasant and strong meanings can bolster confidence. But not all names are created equal. Consult a baby name book or website before bequeathing your child a title that means badger or crooked nose (look it up— it’s a thing)!

FINDING COMMON GROUND Coming up with a short list of names for your little one might have come easy.

But finding one you and your partner agree on? Well, therein lies the rub! Compromise will be a given. Some couples manage this in creative ways: for instance, Mom may get to name the firstborn, Dad the secondborn. Others divide and conquer by having

one parent choose the first name and the other the middle name. But compromise can take an alternative approach as well.

Suzanne says that one of the biggest reasons parents come to her is because they need a mediator when they can’t agree on a name.

She encourages parents to look for the sweet spot.

“Let's say a parent is interested in an unusual name,” Suzanne says. “This is very common. Someone might want an unusual name; the other might want a very traditional name. And the answer in that case might be a traditional name that's not used very often. So there's a sweet spot somewhere in the middle.”

FINAL THOUGHTS Who gets a say in your child’s name?

Wattenberg says while Mom and Dad get ultimate say, it’s important to think beyond.

“There's an assumption today that a baby name is a parent's free choice, but that doesn't mean that only the parents' opinion

matters. We still live in a society. We still live in a community. And the opinions of others in the community are going to be what matters to your children.”

Not everyone’s opinion matters, but if a name conjures delight or disdain in a close family member or friend, it may color the way you see it, too. Consult with your tribe—the people whose opinions matter most to you—but close the door to input beyond that.

If you’re unsettled on which name to go with, consider keeping it under wraps until baby is here. You have a full nine months to process and make a name come to life. And if you have a handful of names you love?

You may wish to take them to the hospital and try them on for size once you look into your little one’s eyes.

Lauren Greenlee has loved names since she was a little girl and has a fascination with their meanings. She raises her well-named crew and writes in Olathe, KS.

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. kcparent.com october-december 2024

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S

tart ’em young! No, really!

It’s never too early for kids to start helping with housework.

Children as young as one year old can start taking on small chores to help around the house. Not only will this lighten your load a bit, but there are many developmental benefits to letting your toddler help around the house.

Why Should Your Toddler Have Chores?

Assigning chores to your toddlers helps them complete tasks on their own, which fosters independence and boosts their self-esteem. It gives them a sense of responsibility at a young age and teaches them important life skills like accountability, problem solving, organization and time management.

Chores also develop their fine motor skills and model teamwork within the family. Your children will learn that they contribute to the entire household and play an integral part in keeping it running.

Let Them Lead If your children show an interest in certain chores, follow their lead. My daughter got into our dog’s bag of food one day, saying she was feeding him.

We decided we could teach her how to feed the dog properly since she showed an interest. It is now a daily chore that she loves to do. She also always asks to set the table before dinnertime. This is especially helpful because it keeps her occupied and happy while I finish cooking. If she shows interest while I’m cleaning the house, I try to let her help me. This could be by giving her a small brush and dustpan to clean the floors, or a dust rag to help me dust.

TIPS FOR INTRODUCING CHORES TO YOUR TODDLER Make It Fun In our house, we have Alexa play the “Cleanup Song” when it’s time to pick up toys after playing. It has become an automatic response to start cleaning.

When she’s done playing, my daughter will even ask Alexa to start the song.

If our toddler is not cooperating with a song, we like to challenge her to see how many toys she can pick up. Asking, “Do you think you can pick up ten toys?” becomes a fun game for her and helps her practice her counting. She often follows up by letting me know she can pick up even more toys, which is a major parent win. kcparent.com

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Don’t Expect Perfection

Be Positive

Remember your child is a toddler and still learning, so it’s important to have realistic expectations. As toddlers grow older and perfect their chores, they can take on new responsibilities.

Cleaning doesn’t have to be a negative thing. When speaking to your kids about cleaning, be enthusiastic and positive. Instead of saying things like, “You have to clean up this mess you made,” or, “You can’t have dessert until you clean up your mess,” you

Regan Lyons is a girl mom and freelance writer. She lives with her husband, Cale, and daughters, Atley, 10, and Ensley, 4, in St. Joseph.

What Are Some Age-appropriate Chores?

A few chore ideas for toddlers ages 2–5 are putting away their toys after playing, feeding pets, putting trash in the trash can, dusting, setting the table and taking their plate to the sink after meals.

could say, “Let’s see how clean we can make the toy room,” or, “Let’s dust this shelf and see if we can make it shiny again!” A simple flip in perspective keeps the chore from becoming an argument and leads to healthy habits in the future.

Keep up the positive attitude after your child completes a chore. It’s important to give them positive feedback to help reinforce their good behavior. And hopefully, they will learn to love helping out around the house.

e

g a ng

oddler t r u o y ing

in helping around the house

Staying Hydrated During Pregnancy It’s good for you and your baby

E

ver notice when you are in the hospital, the nurses always bring you a big cup of water and tell you to drink the whole thing throughout the day? That is because H20 is hydrating, refreshing and helps your body work.

Drinking water during pregnancy helps prevent hemorrhoids and other common pregnancy symptoms. It also helps ship the prenatal vitamins and healthy foods you eat straight to your fetus!

That’s right, it all starts with water.

This simple liquid helps your cells absorb essential nutrients and transports vitamins, minerals and hormones to the blood cells.

Those nutrient-rich blood cells absorb into the placenta and ultimately your baby. Water makes up approximately 60 percent of our bodies and helps not only with nutrient absorption and delivery, but with waste removal, digestion and body temperature regulation.

So how much should you drink every day? Since you need more water to keep your system running for two, the amount varies based on your body type and size, how active you are and other factors.

A general rule of thumb is somewhere

between eight and twelve 8-ounce glasses of water, or even fluid from other sources, each day. Be sure to talk to your doctor about what works for you and your baby.

You’ll feel better when you space out your sips and keep them coming steadily throughout the day. Try not to gulp down a glass all at once, or you may feel uncomfortably full. You can take the hassle out of hydration by filling a water bottle in the morning and keeping it handy all day.

Be sure to sip before, during and after you exercise, or if you find yourself outside on a hot day. Remember that if you feel thirsty, it's a sign that your body is already on its way to dehydration.

There are other delicious ways to stay hydrated. Think about a nice slice of icecold watermelon, which contains about 93 percent water. In fact, a glass of water tastes great and is even more refreshing with a couple cubes of watermelon in it!

Watermelon is packed with electrolytes and potassium, which help replenish the body’s hydration levels and can aid in muscle recovery after exercise. It is also rich in vitamins A and C, magnesium and lycopene.

Also, crunchy cucumber slices contain 96 percent water content and make great dippers for ranch dressing, hummus, guacamole or just chilled by themselves.

They are also a good source of vitamin K and potassium.

Leafy greens like lettuce, spinach, arugula and kale are packed with water, fiber, vitamin C and iron, all of which are essential for energy levels and overall hydration. Make it simple and add a lettuce leaf to your sandwiches and wraps and pour oil and vinegar over them for a crunchy, satisfying snack.

Your baby benefits from everything you put in your mouth and will thrive with plenty of liquids and healthy foods. Keep your little one floating happily until she appears!

An avid outdoors girl, Judy Goppert lives in Lee’s Summit. She enjoys drawing on her personal experiences to write about the nuances of everything wonderful about life.

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

Sources: WhatToExpect.com, FoxNews.com, CHISaintJoseph.org kcparent.com october-december 2024

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What should your baby wear in different temps?

LET YOUR LITTLE ONE TELL YOU!

I

f your newborn is having a screaming fit, her little face will turn red, and she will feel hot. Calm her by removing some clothing and rubbing her little feet, hands and tummy. Then, as she cools down, swaddle her again.

Babies’ bodies adjust to temperature differently than ours. Once, when my son was a young infant, we were sitting outside in the sun, and I had him in just a diaper. He started shivering when the wind started blowing, and I felt awful! He was fine after I wrapped him in his blanket, but I learned that even though I may be hot, he still needs his protective cover.

Before you overpack your diaper bag, remember to simply carry layers you can add or remove. Light colors keep your baby cooler than dark, and if his neck feels sweaty, you can always remove a layer. And when temperatures begin to dip, remember your baby should wear one layer more than you.

Because their bodies can’t regulate internal temperatures as well as adults’, little ones can be particular about outside temperatures. The American Academy of Pediatrics reminds parents that due to their unique physiology, children are more sensitive to temperatures and their health effects.

That is why there are some extreme conditions when it is simply not safe for your baby to spend time outside. Extreme heat may induce dehydration, fatigue and headaches in your baby. When it is freezing outside, hypothermia is a bigger threat for young children than it is for adults.

However, on more temperate days, you can simply layer your baby to keep her comfortable and easily add or remove layers as needed. Use thin cotton clothing as the base layer

SUMMER

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because it is breathable. When it’s cold, add sweaters and a coat as an outer layer. If you are going outside, your baby will need more protection. Snowsuits are great!

If it is snowy or rainy outside, go for a waterproof outer layer. Otherwise, cotton or wool outer layers keep your sweetie warm and cozy all day. Mittens, a hat and little booties help keep your baby covered from head to toe. Pack an extra layer in your diaper bag in case temps drop. In very cold temperatures (below 35 degrees), it’s best to limit your baby’s time outdoors since they get cold faster than we do.

The same goes for hot weather. Always keep your baby’s head covered with a sunhat and even sunglasses. And of course, don’t forget the sunscreen.

Remember to take off bulky layers before putting your baby in her car seat—a thick coat won’t allow you to tighten the seat’s straps all the way. Simply drape baby's coat or blanket over her so she’ll stay warm during the car ride.

Always leave your baby’s face uncovered so she can breathe.

Always remove wet clothes as they can drop a baby’s body temperature quickly. In general, your baby’s body temperature should be between 98 and 100 degrees.

Snuggle and enjoy every season with your little angel!

An avid outdoors girl, Judy Goppert lives in Lee’s Summit. She enjoys drawing on her personal experiences to write about the nuances of everything wonderful about life.

Sources: PureWow.com, Motherly.com, WikiHow.com

WINTER

SPRING

PRODUCT REVIEWS

By Elena Epstein, Director of the National Parenting Product Awards RISE MOM & BABY BOX

OCEAN EASY-FOLD PLAY GYM The washable, reversible play mat features highcontrast black-and-white graphics for early visual stimulation on one side, and a full-color ocean scene on the other to keep older babies engaged. Includes soft developmental toys to attach to the gym. Folds easily for storage or to take on the go. $114.99, ages birth–9 months, MelissaAndDoug.com

BIBS BABY GLASS BOTTLE Made of borosilicate glass, which is temperature- and thermal shock-resistant and durable. Features a natural rubber nipple, a material that mimics the soft feel of a mother’s nipple. $16.95, ages birth–2 years, US.BIBSWorld.com

Each box includes items for both mom and baby to celebrate the parenthood ourney. For mamas find recovery and self-care items, along with resources created by perinatal and childhood therapists.

For babies, receive developmental toys and books. $120, ages 0–24 months, Bloom-And-Rise.com

TINY COLLECTION— CHARLOTTE THE DOG

C'EST SILICONE! MEALTIME SET Features a suction plate, bowl and spoon made from 100% FDA foodgrade silicone. The strong suction and easy-scoop walls ensure mess-free mealtimes, while the gentle material is safe for gums.

Microwave and dishwasher safe. $19.99, ages 4 months+, Munchkin.com

Handcrafted with exquisite details, Charlotte comes nestled in a tiny home adorned in breathtakingly hand-painted watercolor wild owers. A precious antiqued bronze doorknob opens to reveal a magical night scene full of twinkling foil stars, where your little one can put her tiny doll to sleep after a day of play.

Artisan made, fair trade and provides 10 meals to children in need. $44, ages 3+, CuddleAndKind.com

BEBEE V2 LIGHTWEIGHT STROLLER Features a compact, trunkfriendly fold and can be stowed in some overhead compartments. Crafted with eco-conscious materials, it’s the perfect blend of comfort, convenience and sustainability. $199.99, ages 6 months–50 pounds or use from birth with the car seat adapter accessory (sold separately), BombiGear.com

OOLIE’S ORGANIC NEWBORN TRIO & GIFT BAG SMARTCHECK FROM CHILDREN’S TYLENOL An easy-to-use otoscope device that attaches to most smartphones and allows caregivers to remotely check for a potential ear infection.

Provides parents and caregivers with 24/7 access to expert care when a child is experiencing ear infection symptoms—and right in the comfort of their own homes. $79.99, ages 6 months+, Tylenol.com

Includes hat, kimono-style bodysuit and blanket in a convertible gift bag—all made with 100% GOTScertified organic cotton.

Features no internal labels to ease discomfort to baby’s delicate skin. $56, ages birth–3 months, Oolie.com

NAPPA Awards has been celebrating the best in family products for 34 years.

For more product reviews and gift ideas, visit NAPPAAwards.com. kcparent.com october-december 2024

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Dad to Dad. Dude to Dude.

D

ads are a special breed. They inherently know how things

work, what years WWI and WWII spanned, and they never, ever fail to have a screwdriver within arm’s reach. But they weren’t always that way. There’s nothing better than an experienced dad taking a younger father under his wing to show him the ropes (and how to tie that rope). Here are a few words of advice from a dad who’s seen it all to the dad who still has a thing or two to learn.

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WHAT YOU MIGHT THINK: Real dads grill—they don’t clean baby bottles THE TRUTH: Real dads adjust what they’ve been told real dads are You might be an expert at running the Blackstone Core Carnivore 3000, but that doesn’t exclude you from getting your tush over to the sink and cleaning up.

You might bench press 300 pounds, but that also means you can lift hundreds of toys back into their rightful place. Being a dad is a privilege. Take responsibility for every aspect of it, regardless of what you were taught a dad “does.” Will you mess up? Sure. But you tried—and that will definitely earn you the “Best Dad Ever” mug you didn’t even know you wanted.

WHAT YOU MIGHT THINK: Dads don’t go to the doctor THE TRUTH: You’re responsible for creating the healthiest you Listen here: dads get sick. They get torn rotator cuffs, the flu and even cancer. What they often don’t do is enact preventative measures to mitigate those risks. No one is going to make yearly checkup appointments for you. You must advocate for yourself. Take vitamins. Wear sunscreen. Get yearly health screenings. It goes without saying that no one wants to turn his head and cough, but it’s time to get over that. Women don’t like getting mammograms either, but they’re woman enough to sign up. Time to man up and take care of yourself, too.

WHAT YOU MIGHT THINK: I liked it, so will my kids THE TRUTH: Let their passion take the wheel We see ourselves in our children, but that doesn’t mean our children will see us in themselves. It’s important to recognize early on that kids are unique in every way. They may share our obsession with football or they may not. They may find that woodworking lights up their world, or that playing an instrument makes them feel at home. Resist the urge to force an activity onto your child just because it’s

your personal favorite. Let the kids lead the way. Once they find their true passion, they’ll want to share it with you.

WHAT YOU MIGHT THINK: I know what I know and you should know it too THE TRUTH: You don’t know everything Dads love nothing more than giving advice—sometimes when it isn’t asked for. There will always be a temptation to tell your child your opinion, or how you think a problem should be solved. While it’s admirable to suggest solutions from your own experience, it’s also crucial that your kids learn a thing or two solo. Of course, you’ll be there waiting if they get stuck, but give them the chance to figure things out their own way first. You can say “I told you so” later.

What you might think: School/doctor/ day care stuff is for mom to deal with THE TRUTH: No, it’s not Welcome to 2024, friend. We live in a wonderful world of technology. You have access to the school calendar and the autonomy to log important dates in the family calendar! Book the six-month checkup and vaccines all on your own!

Get new school supplies from your favorite store! Sign up for the PTA or volunteer at field day. You can absolutely take control of things that were once designated only for moms—and you’ll be a better dad for it.

WHAT YOU MIGHT THINK: I can stop the heartbreak before it happens THE TRUTH: You’re most qualified to help heal the heartbreak It’s a hard lesson to learn, but as a dad, you will see your children suffer emotional and physical hardships.

Whether it’s a broken arm at day care or a shattered heart after prom, sorrow is unavoidable. Your fatherly instincts might have you try and bypass the valleys to keep the peaks peaking, but it’s a waste of energy. Instead, put on your softest shirt to help wipe the tears away. Practice your best dad jokes for when a laugh is

really needed. Use your big voice to shower your kids with love. You can’t prevent the bad, but you can certainly overshadow it with good.

WHAT YOU MIGHT THINK: I’m going to mess this up THE TRUTH: You will—and you’re supposed to You are the rock, the provider, the clown, the fixer and the soft landing after a hard day. But you’re also a human, and you will mess up at times.

Give yourself a break. Walk away and gather your thoughts. Learn from your mistakes. Dads are allowed to learn, become better and pass their earned knowledge on to the next generation.

It’s a privilege to be a father—stop worrying about what you’ll get wrong and celebrate what you will definitely get right. Being a dad is a job. Your job.

And you’re great at it.

5 WAYS TO ACE THE DAD THING 1. Buy baby pajamas with zippers, not snaps. You’ll look elegant and graceful and be the envy of the neighborhood.

2. Program the coffee pot to go off every morning. Your day will start off so much better.

3. Buy the pre-cut fruit.

4. Whatever your child’s favorite toy is—buy two.

5. Kiss your child’s forehead every morning and you’ll know if they’re getting sick.

Kim Antisdel is a freelance writer and interior design sales rep for KC. She lives in Liberty with her husband, stepdaughters and son. kcparent.com october-december 2024

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kc pumpkin spotlight Johnson Farms Johnson Farms is a real farm in the country, yet close to your home.

Ride a wagon out to the u-pick pumpkin patch or apple orchard.

The u-pick veggie patch and u-cut sunflower and zinnia field are nearby. Experience our giant jumping pillows, giant tunnel maze, authentic fire truck, barnyard arcade and animal corral. Pay one admission to enjoy the farm; pay extra for anything you harvest, snack on or seasonal items in our retail store. Discount pricing available online. JohnsonFarms.net

Carolyn’s Pumpkin Patch Looking for a fabulous fall adventure? Carolyn’s Pumpkin Patch is a must-visit fall destination! Enjoy dozens of attractions, including the historic country carousel, Little Bud’s Railroad, the petting barn, the Pumpkinator pumpkin cannon, the Mega Slide and so much more! Enjoy a wagon ride into our u-pick pumpkin field, and savor refreshments including wine slushies, fresh kettle corn and our famous pumpkin donuts!

Live entertainment as well as Uncle Lester’s Pig Races add to the fun during weekends! Carolyn’s is open five days a week, Thursday through Monday, Sept. 21–Oct. 31. Save when you purchase tickets online in advance. CarolynsPumpkinPatch.com

Louisburg Cider Mill Watch as fresh cider is pressed in our 120-year-old barn and enjoy the delicious cider donuts! Live music every weekend, with extended hours every Friday and Saturday. Explore our 10-acre corn maze; hunt for the perfect pumpkin; enjoy a wagon ride, farm animals, children’s play area and jump pillow; and slide down Sunflower Hill. A trip is not complete without visiting the Country Store and the Lost Trail Soda trailer! Check for amenities and special events online.

LouisburgCiderMill.com

KC Parent is giving away 100+ tickets to your favorite fall attractions including pumpkin patches! Enter to win the Fall Fun Giveaway on KCParent.com!

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Jumping for joy Into our 23rd Season Starting on September 6th! o d s so s e m o s e . e o l e e o s

17701 Holmes Rd. el o 01

7 TIPS

FOR A VISIT TO THE PUMPKIN PATCH Local pumpkin patches are open for the season mid-September through Halloween.

1. Dress for the weather. Remember sunscreen, bug spray and appropriate layers. Later in the season, it may be chilly early or late in the day but may warm up as the sun shines in the afternoon.

2. Wear comfy shoes for playing on a farm. Tennis shoes, rubber boots or farm boots work well.

3. Plan to spend a half to a full day. Weekdays are less crowded and more relaxed, making this the ideal time to visit

with young children. Weekends are bustling and can be an extra special time to visit with friends and relatives. Bring grandparents along for the fun!

4. Check the patch’s calendar of activities featured in our Pumpkin Patch Guide for special events they may be hosting

throughout the season, including live entertainment, special festivals or holiday-themed events for Grandparents’ Day, teacher appreciation, Halloween and more.

5. Buy some goodies to enjoy at home! Cider donuts, pumpkin donuts and kettle corn are all great snacks to enjoy with a relaxing movie after a day at the patch.

6. Decide in advance whether you want to choose one big pumpkin for the family or a small one for each child. Having a plan can save a lot of stress when everyone is drawn to their choice of a perfect pumpkin.

7. Take lots of pumpkin photos!

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AUTUMN MUST-SEE CLASSICS Celebrate the season with your little one with your favorite fall traditions at these local attractions.

AUTUMN APPLES A favorite autumn day trip to the Louisburg Cider Mill.

The classic red cider mill barn is a perfect backdrop for fall photos, and the entire outing is a memorable fall tradition. The delicious aroma of freshly made cider greets you from your first step onto the property.

Visitors can watch fresh cider being made from scratch daily—you’ll see the apples being washed, pressed, and processed, and finally bottled and made available for purchase. Inside the gift shop, visitors can see fresh apple cider donuts being made—be sure to enjoy a warm one before you leave! The mill is also home to one of our favorite pumpkin patches and play areas for little ones.

Use our KC Pumpkin Patch Guide for the full scoop!

TIP: Visit nearby Cedar Cove Feline Sanctuary (also in Louisburg) to see big cats!

Historic Weston Orchard & Vineyard is one of the region’s most beautiful places to enjoy apple picking. A hayride carries visitors to the orchard and pumpkin patch.

The orchard features 7,000 trees on 15 acres with 12 varieties of apples, including Gala, Jonathan, Honeycrisp, Fuji, Jonagold, Red Delicious, Golden Delicious, Empire, Evercrisp, Pink Lady, Granny Smith and Rome Beauty. The dwarf trees make picking easy for all ages. In addition to apple picking, families enjoy play areas, apple cannons, fun photo ops and delicious goodies!

TIP: Many great places to pick apples are within an hour’s drive of Kansas City. Schweizer Orchards in St. Joseph is the largest orchard and one of the prettiest, but there are many others as well. Discover them all in our KC Apple Picking Guide on KCParent.com.

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PUMPKIN TIME The best pumpkin patches are fall amusement parks offering fun-filled attractions for the entire family! With activities like pumpkin cannons, pony rides, pumpkinchomping dinosaurs, creative play areas, jumping pillows, corn cribs, train rides, corn mazes, zip lines, forts, petting zoos, tipis, inflatables and, of course, hayrides to pick the perfect pumpkin, a visit to the local pumpkin patch is a fall bucket list must!

Carolyn’s Pumpkin Patch in Liberty is one of the region’s largest patches and offers a wide variety of play areas and live entertainment, including an inflatable jack-o’-lantern bouncer where kids can enjoy jumping and playing.

Johnson Farms Plants and Pumpkins in Belton is one of our favorite local pumpkin patches. They offer many terrific play areas for little ones, along with a petting zoo and u-pick vegetable patch.

In addition to their familyfriendly fall attractions, they have a beautiful sunflower field with a variety of colors!

TIP: To choose the perfect patch, visit KCParent.com and use our KC Pumpkin Patch Guide! You’ll also find KC coupons there to save during your visits.

NATURE HIKES SILLY SPOOKY FUN Every October the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium is decked out in fun and spooky (but not too spooky) decorations. Hoots and Howls at the Zoo (held on weekends in October) is a favorite event with fun activities and entertainment, including hayrides, pedal tractors, a hay bale maze, and costumed characters. You even can watch the animals

Colorful autumn leaves captivate young children. You’ll find many scenic trails to enjoy across the metro, from paved (perfect for strollers), to woodchip, to simple clearings in the woods. A terrific resource is the book Hiking Kansas City by William Eddy and Richard Ballentine. Eddy and Ballentine provide detailed descriptions of each trail, along with maps and photos.

Some of our autumn favorites for great colors and family photos in every quadrant: South—Overland Park Arboretum; Central—Longview Lake Trails; West— Shawnee Mission Park; East—Burr Oak Woods Nature Center; and North—Parkville Nature Sanctuary.

participate in the fun by smashing pumpkins!

TIP: Don’t forget the classic autumn rituals of jumping in

On the last Saturday in October, attend Boo

piles of leaves and making crayon rubbings to decorate

at the Zoo, which offers pedal tractor rides,

the fridge!

spooky crafts, hayrides and more. Little ones can trick-or-treat at stations located throughout the zoo. Also this fall, plan to visit the GloWild Legends & Lore outdoor lantern festival in the evening.

TIP: You may bring your own picnic to enjoy

FALL FLAVORS

at the zoo. For smaller crowds, visit midweek while school is in session.

S’mores cooked over a nice warm fire are an autumn delicacy loved by campers and neighbors. Hot

Wonderscope Children’s Museum is introducing a

marshmallows can be sticky (and dangerous if too hot)

brand-new Halloween event this year that’s specially

for little ones. However, your tots can still share a s’mores

designed for families with young children. On Oct. 26

treat with you at a local restaurant. Our fall favorites

they’ll host Monster Bash, complete with costumed

include s’mores cheesecake at the Cheesecake Factory.

characters, creative sensory activities with a silly

Among their parade of tasty cheesecakes, the Toasted

(not spooky) monster theme, themed art projects,

Marshmallow S'mores Galore is a decadent treat. The

demonstrations, and yummy food and drinks. Plus, young

Hershey's cheesecake topped with chocolate ganache,

children will have a safe, educational, and memorable

toasted house-made marshmallow and graham crackers

environment to trick-or-treat during the daytime. Family

is a first-rate dessert. And try a s’mores concrete at

packs for the event include six tickets, so you may bring

Sheridan’s Frozen Custard. This sweet spot serves the

the entire family to the celebration!

best frozen concretes in town, and the s’mores concrete

TIP: Check out Wonderscope’s weekly calendar for special events all year long, including sensory-friendly play, story time, baby time and more!

is a top pick! Chocolate, marshmallows and graham crackers blended with your choice of vanilla or chocolate frozen custard make a perfect treat.

TIP: Sheridan’s at Crown Center is our favorite after a day playing at Kaleidoscope or visiting Union Station, Legoland or Sea Life.

Autumn is Kristina Light’s favorite season for family fun! She can be found playing in the leaves with her girls, decorating pumpkins, enjoying cider donuts and celebrating at local festivals all season long! kcparent.com october-december 2024

29

>> FALL 2024 CALENDAR

playdates WEEKLY

Open Gym Mon.–Thu., 9:30–Noon, Kaw Prairie Community Church (Lenexa).

Grab a coffee from the coffee shop and hang out with friends while your kiddos get their energy out on steamy days! KawPrairie.org/info

TUESDAY Preschool Indoor Playground 9:30,

DAILY Story Time Visit MyMCPL.org or JoCoLibrary.org to find a complete list of story times.

Inspired Play Inspired Play Cafe.

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

Indoor Play 9:00, Kanga’s Indoor Playcenter. Enjoy hours of running, climbing, jumping and sliding through incredible play spaces. Kids 3 and under can enjoy the dedicated toddler play area, while the bigger kids can explore the 7,200-squarefoot, multilevel playscape.

Independence.KangasPlaycenter.com

Visit the Zoo 10:00, Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium. The zoo is open year-round.

Pack a picnic and enjoy your favorite animals all year long. KansasCityZoo.org

MONDAY RoKC Play Lounge 8:00, RoKC Olathe.

Children 6 months to 6 years are invited to enjoy a two-hour session in the play lounge while parents participate in rock wall climbing. ClimbKC.com/Olathe Mom or Dad & Me Bumper Bowling 9:30, Summit Lanes. For just $3 per person, you get a game, shoe rental and drink on Mondays and Wednesdays.

SummitLanes.com kcparent.com

30 october-december 2024

Merriam Community Center. Drive, pull or push your favorite Little Tikes vehicles.

Parents must supervise their children. $2/child. Punch cards available: $10 for 10 visits. Merriam.org

Visit Sea Life 10:00, Sea Life Aquarium.

Bring the kids to see the Doodle Reef, the touch pool, Stingray Bay and more! Purchase tickets online at VisitSeaLife.com.

Pay for Play 10:00, Backyard Specialists.

Plan a playdate for your children and their friends at our amazing outdoor showroom.

BackyardSpecialists.com/pay-for-play

Time for Tots 10:30, Kemper Museum.

Sing songs, read books, explore art and make your own art with a Kemper Museum educator and Kansas City librarian. Facebook.com/ KemperMuseum/events

WEDNESDAY Retro Story Time Second Wednesday of the month, 10:00–10:45, Johnson County Museum. Preschoolers love stories from long ago, read by a special guest from the 1950s All-Electric House!

Craft activity included. Register at 913.831.3359.

Preschool Story Time First and third Wednesday of the month, 10:30–11:00, Ernie Miller Nature Center. For ages 2–6. $2/person, including adults. Visit the nature center for stories, songs and surprises geared to preschool children.

Register at JCPRD.com.

THURSDAY Jumperoo Toddler Time 9:00, Urban Air Lenexa. Jumpers 5 and under and their guardian are invited to jump, bounce and crawl around safely. UrbanAirLenexa.com

Pay for Play 10:00, Backyard Specialists.

Plan a playdate for your children and their friends at our amazing outdoor showroom.

BackyardSpecialists.com/pay-for-play

Toddler Time 10:00-2:00, Ceramic Cafe.

On Thursdays, toddlers 5 and under can paint a selected item. CeramicCafeKC.com

Visit Legoland 10:00, Legoland Discovery Center. Take the kids to the ultimate indoor playground for the biggest fans of Lego. Purchase tickets at LegolandDiscoveryCenter.com.

FRIDAY Jumperoo Toddler Time 9:00, Urban Air Trampoline Park Overland Park. Children 5 and under and their parent/guardian can jump, bounce and crawl around safely. UrbanAirOP.com

Toddler Time First and third Friday of the month, 10:00, Blue Springs Fieldhouse.

Children ages 6 months to 5 years can play inside with cars, scooters, slides, a play house, books, mats and more!

BlueSpringsGov.com

SATURDAY Jumperoo Toddler Time 8:00, Urban Air (Overland Park and Lenexa). Little ones 5 and under and their guardian are invited to jump, bounce and crawl around safely.

UrbanAir.com

Little Acorns 10:00, Anita Gorman Discovery Center. Join volunteer naturalists for a fantastic journey through forests, streams and other magical places as they read select books. Register at 816.759.7300.

kcparent.com october-december 2024

31

first birthdays

t

tips and traditions to consider

he big ONE is a big deal! Your baby’s first birthday is an important milestone that gives parents, grandparents and loved ones a chance to celebrate your baby’s first year and all the growth and joy your baby has brought to your home.

Planning a party can be both fun and overwhelming for parents. How do you plan a party that works for everyone’s schedules and is enjoyable for everyone, especially the birthday boy or girl?

Are there traditions you would like to incorporate into upcoming birthdays as your child and family grow? Here are some tips for parents as you plan a first birthday bash.

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32 october-december 2024

Work around naptime Babies are notorious for their strict napping schedules, and an overtired baby can quickly turn a joyous occasion into a meltdown. Schedule the party around your child’s naptime. A well-rested baby is more likely to be cheerful and engaged, making the celebration enjoyable for everyone.

Assign a designated photographer Your baby’s first birthday is a moment you’ll want to remember forever. Instead of worrying about capturing every moment, designate someone as the photographer for the day. Whether it’s a professional or a friend with a good eye, a designated photographer ensures the special moments will be captured while you focus on your child.

Pick a theme that works for you (or don’t) Choosing a theme can add a fun and cohesive element to your party, but it’s not a necessity. If you enjoy planning and decorating, a theme like “Mr. Onederful” or “Berry First Birthday” can be fun.

However, if the idea of a themed party feels overwhelming, a simple, no-theme celebration can be just as special. Focus on what makes you and your baby happy.

Set up activities your child will enjoy At this age, keeping your baby entertained is key. Set up activities that your child will love, such as a ball pit, bubbles, or a sensory play area. These activities not only keep the birthday baby happy, but also engage any young guests.

Choose an outdoor venue if possible If weather permits, an outdoor venue can be a great choice for a first birthday party. Parks or backyards provide ample space for children to play and adults to mingle. Outdoor settings also reduce the stress of indoor messes and allow for simpler decorations and easier cleanup.

Highlight your child’s milestones and favorites Creating a milestone poster is a heartfelt way to celebrate your baby’s first year and share your child’s unique personality with guests. Include details like his first word, favorite food, and beloved toys. The poster not only serves as a cute decoration, but as a keepsake to look back on.

Messages for later Invite your guests to write notes for your child to read when he or she older. This creates a time capsule of love and wellwishes from friends and family. These notes

will be a cherished gift for your child to read and reflect on in years to come, making the celebration even more meaningful.

Pick a charity and have guests bring donations Incorporating a charitable aspect into the party is a wonderful way to give back and teach your child about generosity from a young age. Choose a charity that’s meaningful to your family and ask guests to bring donations instead of gifts. This not only supports a good cause, but helps reduce the influx of toys that can quickly accumulate.

Use decorations you already have If you already have a theme for your baby’s nursery, consider extending it to the birthday party. Reusing decor items saves you time and money. It also creates a cohesive look to tie your baby’s first year together. Whether your nursery theme is woodland, princess, or nautical, using existing decorations adds a personal touch to the celebration.

Smash cupcake

Your baby’s first birthday is a joyous occasion that marks an important milestone. With these tips and tricks, you can create a memorable celebration that honors your child’s first year and the joy he or she has brought to your life.

A first birthday isn’t complete without a smash cake moment. However, instead of a full-sized cake, consider a smash cupcake. It’s the perfect size for your little one to dig into without creating an overwhelming mess. Plus, it’s an adorable photo opportunity that captures your baby’s joy and curiosity.

Sarah Lyons is an Olathe mom of six. On their birthdays, her kids wake up to a “balloon avalanche” on their bedroom door, choose a favorite meal, and eat off a special birthday plate.

kcparent.com october-december 2024

33

>> FALL 2024 CALENDAR

Sar-Ko-Aglow at Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park

parents night out Kansas City Zoo presents GloWild:

Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar & Grill Oct. 8–27,

A Christmas Carol Nov. 23–Dec. 28,

Legends & Lore Thru Dec. 29, KC Zoo &

KCRep. Step into the smoky allure of this

KCRep Spencer Theatre. Join Ebenezer

Aquarium. Filled with massive steel

Tony Award-winning play and go on a

Scrooge on his redemptive journey with

and silk works of art, GloWild features

spellbinding journey through the life and

Christmas Past, Present, and Future,

both adventure and fantasy.

music of the iconic Billie Holiday. KCRep.org

and rediscover the true meaning of the holidays. KCRep.org

KansasCityZoo.org/GloWild Lenexa Chili Challenge Oct. 11 and 12, Halloween Haunt Select nights thru Oct. 31,

Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park. Teams compete

Sar-Ko Aglow Dec. 6–Jan. 20, Sar-Ko-Par

Worlds of Fun. This Halloween event

in chili, salsa and hot wings contests

Trails Park. Kick off your holiday festivities

allows you to experience the thrills of your

in hopes of taking home the Grand

by meeting up with friends and neighbors

favorite rides and the chills of haunted

Champion prize. Teams host private

for this traditional holiday lighting

attractions. WorldsOfFun.com

parties on Friday night and give out

celebration. Lenexa.com

samples on Saturday. Lenexa.com An Old-Fashioned Family Murder Thru

Christmas with the Celts Dec. 7, Midwest

Nov. 17, New Theatre. In 1942, a junior

Murder Mystery Dinner Theater: Murder on

Trust Center. This event is a wonderful

homicide detective stumbles upon

the Disoriented Express Oct. 18 and 19,

combination of timeless Irish Christmas

the murder of a famed mystery writer.

7:00, Holy-Field Winery. Enjoy interactive

carols and lively Irish dance, along with

Trapped in a mansion with several

live murder mystery dinner theater that

contemporary songs with Irish instrumentation.

suspects he finds himself outmatched by

will leave you laughing. Arrive early to

JCCC.edu/midwest-trust-center/events

the cunning of the killer. NewTheatre.com

sample local wines. HolyFieldWinery.com

Japan Fest Oct. 5, Midwest Trust Center.

HYPROV: Improv Under Hypnosis Starring

at 5:00. Every month residents and

This festival showcases the traditional

Colin Mochrie and Asad Mecci Nov. 3, 8:00,

visitors head to the cultural arts district for free peeks at galleries and studios,

First Fridays in the Crossroads Starting

culture, pop culture, food and art of Japan,

Midwest Trust Center. HYPROV (pronounced

along with the vision, technology and

“hip-rawv”) comes to KC after a 70-show

delicious treats from food trucks and

hopes for the future shared by the people

run off-Broadway in NYC, a six-month

local restaurants, and entertainment

of Japan and the people of Kansas City.

residency in Las Vegas and 100 cities toured!

from street performers and buskers.

JCCC.edu/midwest-trust-center/events

JCCC.edu/midwest-trust-center/events

KCCrossroads.org

kcparent.com

34 october-december 2024

Voted Kansas City’s Favorite

FAMILY-FRIENDLY ATTRACTION

Experience the wonders of science through indoor and outdoor interactive exhibits, as well as hands-on, educator-led programs.

Younger guests will practice their social and cognitive skills in the play area and learning lab. With new monthly themed programming, there is always something new to explore!

Endless Discovery &

Visit ScienceCity.com for full details

FUN

SCAN HERE FOR TICKETS

Big adventures start at The Birth Place.

The Birth Place was carefully designed with you and your newborn in mind. That means cozy suites, luxury amenities and a NICU where you can stay in the same room with your baby. It also means we’re going the extra mile to keep newborns and their families safe and healthy.

• Level II NICU, for babies needing extra care

• Repeat winner of KC Parent’s “Favorite Place to Have a Baby”

• Skilled neonatal doctors and nurses

• Comforts like queen beds and large windows

Part of The University of Kansas Health System

Neonatal nurse practitioners provide on-site support 24/7.

olathehealth.org/birthplace 913-791-4396