KC Baby Magazine Winter 2011-2012

FREE winter 2011-12 KCParent.com CELEBRATING 10 YEARS 2002-2012

serving kansas city since 2002

SWEET CELEBRATIONS

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tips for a fun first birthday

what

NOT to feed your baby BEST APPS for new parents

you’re pregnant!

• coping with fears • 2nd time around • trimester overview kcparent.com winter 2011-12

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REDEFINING NEONATOLOGY ONE CHILD AT A TIME

With the area’s only Level IIIc Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Children’s Mercy Hospitals and Clinics offers the very highest level of neonatal care. And it’s all backed by the expertise of more than 600 pediatric specialists, surgeons and researchers. As the only hospital in the region providing ECMO and the leader in nitric oxide research and therapies, we’re helping more critically ill newborns go on to live healthy, active lives. Learn more at facebook.com/ChildrensMercy.

One of the “Best Children’s Hospitals” in all 10 specialties ranked by U.S. News & World Report.

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WINTER 2011-12 CONTENTS

15 in every issue

for the expectant mom

11 What’s New for KC Moms?

10 Pregnancy Depression

Great new products you’ll love!

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24 1-2 years 5 Ear Infections

18 Trimester by Trimester

11 What’s New for KC Moms?

20 Pregnancy Fears

14 Media Mix

20 KC Hospital Directory

16 Sweet Celebrations

14 Media Mix

24 Secrets of the Second Pregnancy

22 Winter Blahs

25 Calendar of Events

birth - 1 year

two years & beyond

12 Our Baby Story

Raising awareness

Terrific titles for parents & tots

KC’s ONLY baby & toddler calendar

28 Resale & Consignment Shopping

Put a little $$ back in your pocket!

30 Product Recalls

Because safety comes first!

5 Ear Infections

8 Bonding with Relatives

6 Best Apps for New Parents

12 Our Baby Story

12 Our Baby Story

13 Think Less about Gender

14 Media Mix

22 Winter Blahs

15 What NOT to Feed Baby

25 Calendar of Events

on the cover Best Apps What NOT to Feed Baby Sweet Celebrations Trimester Overview Pregnancy Fears 2nd Time Around

6 15 16 18 20 24

FREE winter 2011-12 KCParent.com CELEBRATING 10 YEARS 2002-2012

serving kansas city since 2002

SWEET CELEBRATIONS

0

tips for a fun first birthday

what

NOT

to feed your baby

BEST APPS for new parents

you’re pregnant!

• coping with fears • 2nd time around • trimester overview kcparent.com winter 2011-12

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kcparent.com winter 2011-12

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editor’s letter WINTER 2011-12

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

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At KCParent.com Teething Tips to help soothe your teething baby Pregnancy Sleep Strategies for getting a good night’s rest Baby Names Ideas on choosing the best name for baby

Subscribe to the KCParent.com weekly eNewsletter for your most current, familyfriendly weekend planner!

hen my girls were babies, I took great care in introducing them to solids. With a history of food allergies in our family, I read all that I could to find out the latest on how to best keep your child from developing a food allergy. At the time, the consensus was to hold off on feeding children potential allergens until the age of 3. Tori didn’t have her first taste of peanut butter until 3, and I planned to follow the same course with Ally. As we know, rarely do things go as planned. At the age of 2, Ally was exposed to peanut butter while creating a bird feeder and had a severe reaction. Testing revealed a life threatening peanut allergy. So much for my great plan to avoid allergies!

Imagine my surprise when just a few years later, I read that the pendulum had swung back and research now supported introducing children at an early age to foods known to cause allergies. How often information changes when it comes to having and raising babies! At KC Baby, we work hard to keep you up-to-date on the latest information regarding your pregnancy, childbirth and baby years. You’ll enjoy Marisa Frymire’s article on pg. 15, “What NOT to Feed Your Baby,” with tips for making your own baby food.

In 2012, we’re celebrating 10 years of KC Baby!

A decade ago, while in the throes of starting a family, Overland Park parents Michael and Susan Gimotty were looking for a magazine that dealt specifically with pregnancy and new babies. Not finding anything like that in KC, they started KC Baby—and here we are, 10 years later, the ONLY pregnancy, baby and toddler magazine in the market. We are thankful for your readership and support over the past 10 years and look forward to the future!

Snuggle up and stay warm, Kansas City!

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Margaret Sarver, Editor

Advertising Sales Darrell Dean Lynn Hawkins Advertising@KCParent.com Electronic Media Manager Kristina Light Kristina@KCParent.com Proofreader Susan Crainshaw Susan@KCParent.com Distribution To be added to our distribution list, e-mail Distribution@KCParent.com Local Contributing Writers Carrie Allison, Independence Kerry Chafin, Independence Jennifer Duxbury, Belton Marisa Frymire, Overland Park Amy Gonzales, Merriam Stacey Hatton, Overland Park Julie Hubble, Leawood Sara Keenan, Kansas City Kristina Light, Kansas City Emily McIntyre, Kansas City Victoria Pressley, Leavenworth Sara Wright, Leavenworth Melanie Yunger, Shawnee

100% LOCAL

Our cover kid is Mollie from Kansas City. Cover photo and select interior photos by Antisdel’s photography. Antisdels.com

Business Office 11936 W. 119th #335 Overland Park, KS 66213 913.782.3238 phone • 913.681.5139 fax Find us on Facebook: Facebook.com/KansasCityParent Follow us on Twitter: @KCParent Member of

Kansas City Baby is published four times per year: Spring (March 15 - June 15), Summer (June 15 - September 15), Fall (September 15 December 15), and Winter (December 15 - March 15). 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.

Kansas City Baby is not responsible for statements made by advertisers or writers. All photography and letters sent to Kansas City Baby will be treated unconditionally assigned for publication and copyright purposes and are subject to unrestricted right to edit and comment editorially.

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our infant cries more than usual, refuses feedings, has a discolored runny nose and tugs at her ear all morning long…what is your first thought? Colic? Not hungry?

Coming down with a cold? These are common signs of an ear infection, and you DON’T want to ignore these symptoms. Call your pediatrician right away.

“Next to the common cold, ear infections are the most commonly diagnosed childhood illness in the United States,” reports the Nemours Foundation. So it is a good idea that parents become familiar with these symptoms and prepare for what to do.

What Is an Ear Infection (Otitis Media)?

Basically, the middle ear (the space behind the eardrum), which happens to be shorter and more horizontal in younger children than adults, gets full of fluid from either a common cold or allergies; and without proper drainage, a secondary infection can occur, causing a fever, ear pain and a red, bulging ear drum. Ear infections usually start on the third day of a cold. Otitis media peaks at the ages of 6 months to 2 years; however, the infections can remain a problem up until 8 years of age, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

Dr. Scott Dattel, a pediatrician at Kansas City Pediatrics, says, “When a young patient presents with clear nasal drainage, no fever and the pediatrician has ruled out all signs of a bacterial infection, they will have the parent watch the child carefully for 3-5 days. However, if the child isn’t getting better, the clear mucus turns green and a fever goes higher than 101 degrees, the child needs to be rechecked, and a course of antibiotics will probably be required.”

“I find antibiotics a necessary evil for an infant with an ear infection,” says Heidi Prentice, an Overland Park mother of two girls. “I don't think it is fair to let the baby suffer with the pain, fever and sleeplessness that my baby gets with her recurring ear infections.

I also don't want to chance hearing loss. However, I found that using saline rinses at the first sign of the sniffles can oftentimes prevent an ear infection altogether.”

Preventing Recurrent Infections 1. Stay Away from Tobacco Smoke – Make sure that no one smokes in your home, the car or at the daycare where your child stays. Exposure to secondhand smoke can increase the frequency and the severity of your child’s ear infections.

2. Breastfeed Infants for at Least 6 Months – This can actually prevent early ear infections. With bottle-feeding, babies tend to lie down to drink their bottles, causing fluid to pool in that middle ear. Try to keep them more upright for better results.

3. Fewer Exposures to Large Groups of Kids – More kids to breathe on, more colds, more risk of turning into ear infection…the circle of ear infection life!

4. Good Handwashing – Do I need to explain this one again? Let’s all try to do better!

5. Keep Immunizations Up-to-Date – Certain vaccines, such as the pneumococcal, flu and Hib can keep your child from getting sick and progressing into an ear infection.

Ear Tube Surgery “Ventilation tubes are tiny plastic tubes that are inserted through the eardrum by an ENT (Ear, Nose & Throat) surgeon, which allow fluid to drain out of the middle ear space and allow air to re-enter,” reports the AAP. “This reduces the risk of recurrent ear infections and returns the hearing to normal.”

Parents often debate whether or not to treat their infant with antibiotics for ear infections; but it is imperative your child be seen by a medical provider who can fully assess the situation and determine what is best for your baby. If the infection is severe enough and left untreated, further complications can arise. Please let your doctor advise you closely in these decisions!

Stacey Hatton is a pediatric RN, mother of two girls (one with ear tubes, one without) and a freelance writer in Overland Park, who is so glad the days of monthly ear infections are over!

For more great articles dealing with baby’s health, including tips for reducing the risk of SIDS and the benefits of breastfeeding, visit KCParent.com.

Ear Infections…

Why Do You Plague My Child?!

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10216 Pflumm Rd, 913-894-0131 Register TODAY & receive $100 credit upon enrollment! kcparent.com winter 2011-12

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The Best Apps for New Parents

Even though your baby isn’t old enough to use a smart phone yet, there are plenty of great apps that can make your life as a new parent easier. Here are a few that are recommended by experienced KC parents!

top pick!

Baby Bump Pregnancy:

Baby Tracker Nursing:

White Noise Lite: Help your

Before baby arrives, track your pregnancy with this amazing app! You will be able to view a countdown to your anticipated delivery, see updates on how your baby is growing each week, track your weight and pregnancy symptoms, upload baby bump photos, and share all of this information with your loved ones. Available for iPhone and Android. Cost: FREE

Keep track of when your baby nurses, which side went first, how long they nurse on each side and when you bottle feed with this app. Available for iPhone. Cost: $4.99. (A similar app, Baby Feeding Timer, is available for Android for free)

baby fall asleep on the go with this white noise app. Choose from a variety of sounds to soothe your baby to sleep. Available on iPhone and Android. Cost: FREE

My Fitness Pal Calorie Counter: Lose that baby weight by Total Baby: Keeping track of baby’s Labor and Contraction Timer: Gone are the days of the dad with the stopwatch. Now you can track your contractions with the Contraction Timer app. Just tap a button when your contraction begins and again when it ends.

Available for iPhone and Android.

Cost: FREE

activities can be overwhelming with a newborn, but this app helps you keep it all straight! Track when baby eats, how long/how much for feedings, wet and poopy diapers, and naps—all with the touch of a button. There is even a growth chart! Available on iPhone. Cost: $4.99 (A similar app, Baby Connect, is available on Android for the same price.)

KC Going Places: When your little one starts going places, it’s time to download the KC Parent Going Places App! Available on Android…iPhone coming soon! Cost: FREE

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using this app that allows you to enter the foods you eat, calculate how many calories you take in, track your exercise and develop a plan to lose weight! Available for iPhone and Android. Cost: FREE

Cozi: It won’t be long before your baby’s social calendar starts filling up with play dates, play gym classes, story times, and doctor’s appointments. Keep track of it all with the Cozi app and website.

You can share your calendar with your spouse and download school and other public calendars. Available on iPhone and Android. Cost: FREE.

Kindle: Occupy yourself during those nighttime feedings with the Kindle app.

This free app allows you to read on your phone anything from your Kindle library.

Available for iPhone and Android. Cost: FREE (plus cost of books)

Baby Cam: Many parents find it hard to get their baby’s attention when trying to capture those adorable baby moments. The Baby Cam app plays a number of different baby-pleasing, attention-getting sounds like bells, animal noises and songs to get your baby to look right at the camera! Available for iPhone.

Cost: $.99

Feeling overprotective?

Photo Here

Grocery IQ: Add items to your grocery list and share it with your spouse so that you both have access to the things you need at all times. You can sort items by store and even match coupons! Your spouse will never forget the diapers again!

Available on iPhone and Android. Cost: FREE

Sara Keenan lives with her family in Brookside. Her favorite apps are Angry Birds, Cozi and Kindle.

Life insurance is more than a policy — it’s a gift of protection for your children’s future.

Call me today.

Feeling overprotective?

Benjamin J. Warner Agent Life insurance is more than New York Life Insurance Company Photo Here 7500 College Boulevard, Suite 800 a policy — it’s a gift of protection Overland Park, KS 66210 for your children’s future.

P. 913.488.8288 O. 913.451.9100 Call me today. bjwarner@ft.newyorklife.com Benjamin J. Warner Agent New York Life Insurance Company 7500 College Boulevard, Suite 800 © 2011 New York Life Insurance Company, 51 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10010 SMRU 00442098CV (Exp. 03/18/13) Overland Park, KS 66210 P. 913.488.8288 O. 913.451.9100 AR03251B_0409 bjwarner@ft.newyorklife.com

© 2011 New York Life Insurance Company, 51 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10010 SMRU 00442098CV (Exp. 03/18/13) AR03251B_0409

kcparent.com winter 2011-12

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TIPS FOR BONDING WITH LONG DISTANCE RELATIVES

My kids can’t just run down the street to Nana’s house for milk and cookies. Luckily, technology enables us to communicate faster and easier with far-flung relatives than ever before. But can kids really build a close relationship with distant relatives?

With a combination of new technology, traditional communication, a dose of creativity and some effort—YES… definitely!

GET CREATIVE

Photo Crafts: You can stick someone’s face on just about anything these days. Having your mother and mother-in-law staring out from every nook in your house might not sound appealing to you, but it will help your kids learn who these personalities they rarely see are.

We created photo magnets with the kids with close-up pics of relatives. The kids love to match up the grandma with the grandpa and the cousins with their siblings and talk about each person. It also helps when we visit Florida, Chicago or Australia and some excitable family member reaches for them, the kids don’t freak out from stranger danger.

Write a Book: Create your own picture books of your experiences, like “Brandon’s Trip to the Zoo” or “Ella and the Circus Elephants.” Ask kids about each of their senses: how they felt, what they smelled, what they saw, heard, etc. Have them write (or dictate) captions for their story.

They can draw pictures or use photos or do a funky combination of both.

Older kids can interview relatives and write their stories for them. Or how about creating a family recipe cookbook? You can even self-publish it as a print-on-demand title for your family.

Whip up a photo book online. You can have it print out in Grandma’s local store in Florida. Add words and make it a picture book.

Start a Book Club: Reading together, anything from picture books to novels, is a great way to foster bonding. Many years ago, I spent a year teaching English in South Korea. At the time, my two kid sisters were 7 and 8 years old. We started reading Harry Potter books over the phone.

My whole family got into it. A couple of months after I got home, the first movie was released in theaters, and we all went together.

Recordable Books: You’ve probably seen recordable books in stores a lot lately. Have your long distance rellies pick one up, record the story and mail it to you. Stick a photo of the reader in the book’s front cover so your kids associate the voice with the face. Or have family members whip up a DVD of themselves reading stories to the kids.

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CALL, CHAT, CONNECT

Get on the Horn: Here are a few tips to make long distance phone calls and web chats easier on kids and relatives.

• Reduce radio silence by recapping with kids any news they might want to share before you make the call. They could even write a list or draw a picture to remind them of things they want to say.

• Set up regular online chat times so everyone’s ready.

• If using a phone, show younger kids a photo of the relative you’ll be calling.

Remind kids to speak loudly and clearly. Nana’s hearing might not be what it once was.

Social Networking: It’s free. If you have long distance rellies and you (or they) are not on Skype yet, this must be your first step. Grandparents may not know that phones are for taking photos, videos and texting – according to kids. If they’re slow to jump on board, explain that they’ll learn more about your kids (especially teens and preteens) by trolling through their Facebook pages occasionally than they will from a phone call.

Add that it’s also faster and easier to view and download your photos.

Yay for Wi-Fi: Try cooking the same recipe with Grandma via Skype or bringing your computer to your child’s school play or dance recital.

Start a Website or Blog: Create a hub to share your experiences with your family. You can load photos and create a message board. The 6-year-old daughter of one of our KC Mom Bloggers has her own blog.

Old-Fashioned Postage: • Everyone appreciates receiving something other than bills in the mail.

• Create photo or hand-drawn postcards.

• Initiate a progressive project, like a one-line-at-a-time story or a picture sent one piece at a time.

• Stick your photos in sandwich bags and tape them together in a handmade scrapbook.

Or send scrapbook pages of your outings and events.

• Have the kids create a newsletter or fake headline page of a newspaper with info about their achievements and events.

• Do you like cooking? Do your kids? Why not trade homemade snacks with family members? Flavored popcorn, cookies and cakes ship well. Or try mixing up the ingredients for chilis and soups. How about sending recipes?

Despite geographic distances, you can help your kids develop close relationships with widely scattered relatives. When your kids do catch up with rellies in person, concentrate on building memories.

Victoria Pressley is a full-time writer, stay-at-home mom and military spouse living in Leavenworth. She is the editor of the upcoming anthology, How to Avoid Murdering Your Mother-in-Law. kcparent.com winter 2011-12

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T PRENATAL COPING WITH

DEPRESSION

o me, prenatal depression felt like being lost in a long, dark maze with occasional monsters jumping out at me and few candles to light the way. I would wake happy for a moment, but then the emotions would crash in upon me: fear, guilt and simple unhappiness. By evening, I was in a downward spiral which could only be ended by going to bed and waiting for the cycle to start again. I didn’t know what was happening to me and the bewilderment only made things worse.

Prenatal depression was once thought impossible. Doctors assumed that all the hormones surging through a pregnant woman’s body eliminated the possibility of depression. Postpartum depression has long been acknowledged, but prenatal depression is just beginning to be studied and understood.

Do you have prenatal depression? It’s estimated by some that up to 70 percent of pregnant women deal with some form of the disorder. Emotional detachment, extreme anxiety and insecurity, fatigue, trouble eating and sleeping, and any number of overwhelming negative emotions can all indicate possible depression. Of course, many of these are also symptoms of pregnancy, so their presence doesn’t necessarily evidence depression.

If you think you may have prenatal depression, it is a good idea to consult your physician. But not all cases are severe, nor do they always merit medical intervention. You may simply find yourself trying to cope with mild prenatal depression on a daily basis, as I did.

Rest whenever you can, even if you have to let a few other things go for a while.

I’ve never been a nap-taker, but now that I’m pregnant, I find sleep just creeps up on me and knocks me out! If you can’t take naps, do try to at least lie down once in a while, and sit whenever you can rather than stand. Your body is building a person! Give it the rest it needs.

Eat whenever you’re hungry, but don’t stress about it if you can’t keep anything down. I lost weight when I got pregnant and didn’t gain it back until the fifth month, because I could hardly eat anything due to terrible nausea. My caregiver assures me that I’m carrying a very healthy baby. Just try to eat nutritious food when you can, not junk

food, so that what you and the baby get nourishes rather than depletes you.

Journal. I’ve got some nearly unreadable journal entries from my first trimester. I knew I couldn’t take out my anger and frustration on the people who surrounded me, so I’d sit and write my thoughts down. It really helps me, and may help you, to put into words some of what is whirling in your head.

Give yourself space—from others, if necessary, and from yourself, if you can. Put on a movie and zone out (I finished watching every Buffy the Vampire Slayer rerun in my first trimester), focus on a project or write someone a letter. Your emotions will still be there when you revisit them.

Communicate with your loved ones so they know what’s going on. My poor husband couldn’t understand why I was so impossible to live with, and neither could I, until I realized that I was dealing with prenatal depression. After that, our lives improved drastically! If your family knows that certain subjects bother you right now, they may be able to understand your reactions better.

Sometimes there’s just no help for it! There are days when you may simply feel terrible but have to function as normal. If all else fails, a quick trip to the bathroom to wipe tears can help. Don’t despair—things will improve!

Depression is not something that can be easily labeled. Prenatal depression in any form is not to be lightly dismissed or ignored. It can, however, be lived with, and usually goes away by the second trimester. Try to be kind to yourself and communicative with your loved ones, and you will find that you can cope with depressive symptoms in this volatile time of your life. You may even find yourself deepening in self-awareness and acceptance, always a worthy endeavor.

Good luck!

Emily McIntyre is a Kansas City-based freelance writer and harpist. She and her husband are expecting their first child in February. When not writing, she enjoys reading, cooking and making music under a variety of conditions.

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what’s new

Kansas City Zoo

Children’s Mercy South Opens Emergency Department Children’s Mercy South recently opened a pediatric emergency department.

The Children’s Mercy South pediatric emergency department will be the only provider in the southern half of the Metro area to provide pediatric physicians, nurses, radiologists, lab technicians and other pediatric allied health and support staff for children 24/7. And, beginning in January 2012, Children’s Mercy will offer urgent care services nearby at its 5520 College Blvd. location. The urgent care center will be open seven days a week.

Safe Sleep Crib Set To help new parents follow the revised American Academy of Pediatrics’ recommendation to eliminate crib bumpers, Halo Innovations, best known for the Halo SleepSack Wearable Blanket is offering parents the tools they need to create a safe nursery in minutes. This January, Halo is introducing the Halo Safe Sleep Crib Set. The new nursery set includes a Halo SleepSack Swaddle, a Halo SleepSack Wearable Blanket, two tight fitting sheets and a coordinated dust ruffle – no blanket and no bumpers. Amazon.com.

Gift that Keeps On Giving!

Purchase Your 2012 Friends of the Zoo (FOTZ) Membership Today!

2012 FOTZ Memberships Include: FREE Zoo admission through March 31, 2013 and much more!

Open Daily 816.513.5800 kansascityzoo.org

The Kansas City Zoo is a private non-profit operated in agreement with the Kansas City, MO Board of Parks and Recreation Commissioners and is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.

Create Personalized Gifts at Local Store The My Ubby store in Overland Park allows you to create one-of-a-kind baby blankets & adult throws. Each unique blanket is built to your specifications out of the finest, softest material available. To build your blanket, simply choose from more than 50 unique ubby fabric styles and color/print options, 12 poly satin edging colors or stitch options and, of course, custom ubby personalization features and add-ons. Can’t make it to the store? Their website makes it easy to order online. MyUbby.com kcparent.com winter 2011-12

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baby story

raising

awareness I

My husband broke the news to me that something was wrong.

play & support groups… ...because we are all in this together!

For a complete list of play and support groups all over the KC Metro, visit KCParent.com; your child’s next best friend may already be a part of the group!

Email Kristina@KCParent.com with any changes to the list.

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n the late spring of 2010, I gave birth to my second daughter, Makayla. I had a normal healthy pregnancy and delivery, and my first daughter, Mackenzie, was a proud big sister!

Shortly after delivery, my husband and daughter wheeled Makayla to the nursery for her first bath. During Makayla’s bath, the nurse noticed that she had several lesions on her body.

One that caught the most attention was the size of a pencil eraser. My husband’s proud heart dropped into his stomach as he thought, “What’s wrong with my new baby girl?”

My husband broke the news to me that something was wrong and pointed out to me the lesions that they had found. I was worried but tried to play it off as no big deal. I reasoned that the lesions looked to be healing and scabbed over. As we settled into our new room after delivery, different doctors and nurses came in to peek at her lesions. Nobody had an answer, and we had to wait for the pediatrician to take a look.

The next day, the pediatrician came to do her exam and she, too, had no idea what was wrong. She referred us to the Children’s Mercy dermatology clinic and, thankfully, was able to get us an appointment much quicker than the typical months-long wait. I finally cried because now it was becoming real to me that there really was something wrong with my baby.

She was 10 days old when we took Makayla to see the dermatologist at Children’s Mercy North. After a few days, I received the call from the dermatologist. At first he gave me the medical terminology and then broke it down so that I could better understand: What her biopsy revealed was Langerhans Cutaneous Histiocytosis (LCH). He continued to explain to me that this is a form of malignancy like cancer and could affect many of her organs or bones and, in some cases, be fatal. Makayla would require follow-up tests to see whether any of her organs or bones were involved. The doctor also advised me strongly not to Google this disease, as I would only be frightened by the horror stories.

I called my husband at work and told him that the test results were back and relayed to him what the doctor told me. All of our questions and fears about what would happen next seemed to hang in the air as we waited to see the radiologist and have more extensive blood tests at the end of June.

During that wait, our entire family came together for comfort and to compile a list of questions about the disease. Every day with Makayla was a blessing. I held her as much as possible, thinking to myself that love will make her strong. On the day of her radiology, my husband and I had to watch from behind a filtered window as the x-ray techs stretched my almost-1-month-old daughter into positions that newborns don’t like—she cried uncontrollably. I could only stand back, cry and watch as they did their job.

When we got the test results, we had some good news: The LCH appeared to be affecting only her skin. This was a huge relief, but we still had so many unanswered questions.

We were directed to the Children’s Mercy oncology office where we would meet the doctor who would be seeing Makayla for her LCH and who would be able to answer our many questions. The oncologist reported that she has the best form of this disease and would be seen every 3 months for the first year to monitor for recurrences or signs of LCH affecting her anywhere else.

At this appointment, we also were introduced to the Histiocytosis Association, an on-line education, resource and support community. It was here that I learned all about Histio and was able to connect with others dealing with this disease. Through the organization’s website, I have learned ways to bring awareness and fund-raising to this society to help find a cure.

Thankfully, I am blessed that my daughter has been affected by this disease only in her skin and that it has healed on its own. Makayla will need to be aware of her disease for the rest of her life and be alert to symptoms of LCH. My job as her mother is to raise awareness and funding so that there will be a CURE. Amy Gonzales lives in Merriam with her two daughters.

thinking a little less about gender

A

s the mother of a little boy, I haven’t found it particularly difficult to guide my son toward a well-rounded view of his gender. He has always been interested in very boyish pursuits: dinosaurs, trains and cars. But he also is very compassionate and nurturing toward animals and other children. He loves to play in his pretend kitchen and use his toy vacuum. He has a baby doll and pretends to feed her from the bottle. He likes learning about cooking when he helps me make dinner. He watches Diego and Handy Manny but also loves Dora and Strawberry Shortcake. I am proud of him, and I’m proud of the job my husband and I have done raising him.

Recently, we had a little girl. Suddenly, I found myself drawn to all things girly: pink ruffles and dresses with little matching panties. I choose frilly clothes for her over practical play clothes. I have saved my favorite dolls from when I was a little girl, and they are waiting for her in the back of her closet. My head is filled with images of painting our nails together and braiding her hair.

The other day, at the library, a little girl in a purple dress and matching hair bow ran up next to me and my son as we looked through the stacks of books.

Her mother followed close behind her. “Lydia, come here,” she said.

“Look, Mommy,” Lydia chimed. “I want this book!”

She pulled out a big book with two construction diggers on the front cover.

“No, honey,” her mother sighed. “I don’t think we should get that book. I don’t think it will hold your interest.”

My heart frowned along with the little girl as her mother led her away to books about princesses. But she wanted that book, I thought. Maybe she’s interested in that book. Maybe she likes diggers. Then I looked at my infant daughter dressed in her pink and brown dress, snoozing in her stroller. Was I already placing expectations on her because she is girl? Was I already manipulating her interests by dressing her in ruffles and bows, in pink and purple?

My good friend’s daughter Lucy is the same age as my son. For the last four years, I’ve watched Lucy’s interests evolve. She loves Dora, dinosaurs and animals of all kinds. She prefers stuffed animals to dolls, books to bows. She loves nothing more than squatting down to play in the dirt. But she also spends quite a bit of time in a tutu. Lucy’s parents have allowed her to find her own interests, without really labeling them traditionally girl or boy interests.

They are just Lucy’s interests, Lucy as a whole person, not just a gender.

Maybe my daughter Frances will like trucks, or maybe she’ll like princesses. Maybe she’ll like both, like I did. My sister and I played with transformers and GI Joes along with our Barbies and Care Bears. Maybe Fran will want to wear her brother’s hand-me-down overalls when she heads out to play but also dress up in a tutu when the feeling strikes. What I’ve learned, though, by watching Lucy and her parents is that I will follow my daughter’s interests, whatever they might be.

Carrie Allison is a poet, freelance writer and mother of two who lives in Independence.

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media mix

Best New Titles for New Parents

Cuddle up with your cutie in the cold winter months with these great ideas!

Happy Hippo, Angry Duck by Sandra Boynton (Simon & Schuster). Boyton’s familiar verse and characters return in a new board book on emotions. This delightful gem has an easy-to-read-aloud rhythm and sweetly absurd dialogue. “Perhaps, like a pig, you are SWEETLY AMUSED, / Or perhaps, like a cow, you’re COMPLETELY CONFUSED.” Sure to brighten anyone’s mood, even a parent’s!

My Child Is Sick! by Barton D. Schmitt (American Academy of Pediatrics) An excellent resource for parents, this easy-to-use reference guide is first categorized by symptoms. Especially helpful are the sections “When to Call Your Doctor” and “Home Care Advice.” Addresses the most common childhood illnesses and injuries.

Napper’s Delight by Dean Jones (Big Kids Productions). Are you a Paul Simon fan? Do you like indie music? Would you appreciate hearing quirky new instruments? Then this album is the one you want. Jones has created a magical and unique lullaby album for the very young, retuning traditional songs with instruments like balaphones and pedal steel!

Babble.com You should really check out this website when you’re pregnant and have some quiet time. A copious amount of information can be found here, geared toward a generation of new parents raised on technology beyond the television.

Content includes age-related information, new products, food, celebrity, baby names and other blogs to research!

Julie Hubble prefers books to most technology gadgets in Leawood.

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Stars by Mary Lyn Ray, illus. by Marla Frazee (Beach Lane Books). Full of wonder, this is a great choice for an older sibling to read aloud. Ray captures childlike observations of the world (“Snowflakes are stars.”), while exploring why stars have so much meaning to us. Frazee’s luminous illustrations captivate young minds as the story reveals fact and mystery about this heavenly symbol.

JibJab Jr. developed by JibJab Media for iPad. JibJab, the famous duo who developed the political satire “This Land” and OfficeMax’s hit “ElfYourself,” has another hit on their hands. JibJab Jr is an iPad eBook that allows your child to be the star! The app and the first personalized book are free. Additional books are individually priced or available through a book-a-month plan.

What NOT to Feed Your Baby

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Have you considered making your own homemade baby food but just aren’t quite sure how to get started?

It’s easier than you think, saves you money and offers health benefits to your baby. Here are some tips to help you get started: 1. Purchase fresh produce or buy it frozen. I usually do a combination of frozen and fresh, depending on what the food item is.

2. Steam or bake your food, but never boil. Steaming is my preferred way because it seems to take less time than baking. The steaming or baking method “retains much more of the nutrients, such as vitamin C and vitamin B, which leak out into cooking water (Ruth Yaron, Super Baby Food).”

3. Using a food-processor, kitchen blender or hand-turned food mill, purée away! For younger babies, add small amounts of the water used to steam the produce to thin out the texture of the puréed food.

4. Puréed baby food (once cooled) can be stored in ice cube trays, which is the perfect portion size of baby food. To store, pop frozen cubes into a labeled and dated freezer bag and pull food cubes out as needed for up to 3 months.

or the first four to six months of life, nutrition found in breast milk and/or formula is sufficient to meet all of your baby’s needs. When your infant is beginning to sit independently, seems interested in foods and is putting things in his or her mouth, it is time to introduce solid foods! While this is an exciting milestone, many parents find themselves consumed with worry over what they should NOT feed their baby. Though the American Academy of Pediatrics has recently changed the feeding guidelines for babies, there are still some additional recommendations to keep in mind.

Common “first foods” for baby to try are simple rice cereals, oatmeal and pureed fruits and vegetables. Infants need to adjust to a new texture other than liquid, so remember that your baby may be resistant at first. A helpful rule of thumb is to allow several days between each new food item’s introduction. This allows baby to adjust to the new taste and texture.

Introducing items one at a time also allows you to pinpoint the source of any potential allergic reaction (rash, diarrhea, etc.).

There are no true restrictions from the AAP regarding fruits and vegetables for babies, which is great news for parents! Dr. Aundria Speropoulos, M.D., Leawood Pediatrics, encourages offering your baby a variety of these essential nutrient-filled foods. Eggplant, carrots, squash, strawberries, blueberries and all other fruits and vegetables can be given to your baby to try. “By exposing your child to a variety of fruits and vegetables at an early age, they are more likely to have a larger selection of these foods as they grow,” Dr. Speropoulos says.

One food item that babies under 1 should not be given is honey. Honey poses a risk of containing bacteria that could cause infant botulism. An infant’s intestinal tract is not strong enough to fight off the growth of these bacteria, so honey should be avoided entirely for children under the age of 1.

Another food item to avoid before your child’s first birthday is cow’s milk. The topic of dairy food can be confusing, because young children can eat dairy in food items, such as cottage cheese and yogurt, but not drink whole milk by itself. If you have a formula-fed baby, it sure would be cheaper to switch over to whole milk, but whole milk before age 1 puts your baby at risk for developing anemia. BabyZone.com explains: “An excess of cow’s milk protein can irritate an infant’s intestine and cause microscopic blood loss. This blood loss over time can be enough for babies to lose significant amounts of iron, resulting in anemia.”

Babies under 1 simply do not have the intestinal maturity to handle the whole milk protein.

Because babies under 1 should not be given cow’s milk, you may think there is no harm in giving fruit juice. However, babies should not be given “excessive” amounts of juice, which means no more than 4-6 ounces of fruit juice per day, if any at all. Dr. Speropoulos says, “Most pediatricians prefer your child is given no juice and only fresh fruits. The extra calories and sugar provide no nutritional benefit for the growing child.” If your child needs something to drink throughout the day or at mealtime, offer them water.

There is also a list of foods to avoid simply because they present a serious choking hazard to your young child. Though your 1-year-old may have seven or eight teeth already, he is not ready to thoroughly chew everything yet. Foods to avoid because of the potential choking hazard are hot dogs, raisins, popcorn, nuts, marshmallows, hard candies and peanut butter, due to its sticky consistency. Also avoid offering foods in large chunks that would be difficult for baby to gum up or could get stuck in her throat. Taking the time to cut food items into small pieces lowers your child’s chances of choking.

While certain foods used to be delayed to help children avoid developing possible allergies, the AAP is more concerned now with family history. In general, pediatricians would agree with the AAP that unless there is a family history of an allergy to a particular food (such as eggs, strawberries or fish), your baby can eat these food items. Dr. Speropoulos says, “New studies show us that delaying the introduction of allergen-based foods does not actually reduce the risk of getting the allergy.” As a parent, it is important that you know your family’s history to make safe and informed food decisions for your baby, and always consult with your pediatrician, who is one of your child’s best advocates for health and nutrition.

Marisa Frymire loves that there are so many options of healthy foods to give her kids, even at a young age! If only they wouldn’t be so picky! kcparent.com winter 2011-12

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sweet

celebrations

tip #1: timing is everything

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Schedule the party to last less than two hours and aim for right after naptime so that your baby is well-rested and happy. If you are lucky, maybe you can even squeeze in a nap, too!

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BEST APPS for new parents

you’re pregnant!

• coping with fears • 2nd time around • trimester overview kcparent.com winter 2011-12

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We’re celebrating a special milestone at KC Baby in 2012. It’s our 10th anniversary! Just as your baby’s first birthday is an important milestone in your family’s life, we’re just as excited here to be celebrating 10 years of being the ONLY pregnancy, baby and toddler magazine in the KC market.

tip #2: location, location, location It’s best for everyone if you hold the party at your home or in an environment familiar to you and your baby. The last thing you want to worry about is whether it’s baby-proofed and cake-smearing safe. Some other suggestions if your home isn’t suitable: a close relative’s home, a local restaurant that is child/ baby friendly or an indoor activity center/ playground.

tip #4: make sure your theme adds to the party If you are choosing a theme, make it a simple one that’s easily recognizable. Also, try to choose something your child has shown interest in. You can start with anything from favorite toys, animals, storybooks or cartoons. Then, incorporate the theme into the invitations, decorations, food and maybe even the gifts--just avoid the temptation to take it too far. The last thing you want your theme to do is distract or overwhelm your child. Furthermore, you needn’t get carried away with a lot of elaborate, expensive decorations or grab bags. These items will become more important and costly as your child gets older, but need not be a priority right now.

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o there it is. Circled in big red marker on the calendar (as if you could ever forget). Exciting but daunting, all the same. It’s your child’s first birthday and it very well could be the standard by which you judge all future parties.

So, although you have taken it upon yourself to throw the BEST BIRTHDAY PARTY YOUR CHILD HAS EVER HAD, just relax…it will be! And, if you use any of the following tips, it also could be one of the easiest!

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tip #3: be selective A birthday can be a great way to get everyone together, but a room with too many unfamiliar faces may end up overwhelming your little one (not to mention everyone else).

Try to keep the guest list limited to family members and close friends.

tip #5: try to find activities that benefit all Come up with activities for the kids, so the adults can relax and enjoy themselves a bit.

However, try to avoid anything that might turn out to be too scary or loud. Setting out

some large pieces of construction paper so the kids can make their own birthday cards for your child is an easy and effective way to give them an opportunity to feel a part of the celebration. If you aren’t worried about the mess, give them each a container of bubbles or start a game where an older child blows the bubbles and the rest try to pop them all before they hit the floor.

tip #6: it’s better to give than to receive Although the party is ultimately for your little one, it is nice to be able to provide the other young children who attend the party with a gift. The concept of birthdays remains a bit foreign to many young children, and there is often at least one child at the party who may not grasp why he or she is not receiving gifts as well. Grab bags can be a great way to shift the focus and can include stickers, a small toy or a box of crayons, for instance. Just a thoughtful little something can keep kids distracted while your little one rips the paper and puts one of the recently opened boxes on his head.

tip #7: cater to the kids, literally Try to make or order healthy and easy-to-eat foods, so that young ones will be able to eat more independently. Some ideas are small sandwiches, mini-hamburgers, individual pizzas, chicken tenders, bite-size veggies

and/or fruit pieces. Try to steer clear of soups, spaghetti or anything that requires utensils and a new rug. Also, avoid items that are choking hazards, such as popcorn, peanuts, hotdogs, grapes, etc.

tip #8: times are tough, but present buying shouldn’t be In times of economic turmoil, the last thing you want is for the people closest to you to feel burdened by having to buy your 1-yearold an expensive gift that he or she will use for only a few months. A couple of ways to defuse this situation are to inform your guests that you’d like to build your baby a time capsule with stuff from the year she was born. Baby can open the items and place them in the box, and you can make an activity of it, allowing everyone to help decorate the box. Or, let your theme guide your guests. For instance, if you are doing a zoo theme, you can include select animals on the invitations and ask the guests to bring one small item that corresponds with that animal.

Parameters can help take some of the stress off the shopping experience.

an increasingly popular idea for everyone involved. Your child can dig into her own cake without filling party guests with dismay by fingering and spitting all over their cake.

Another benefit is controlling baby’s portion size and type of cake. A very easy way to do this is by having cupcakes instead of sheet cake. Perhaps most importantly, remember the camera. The photos of your little one with a cake-covered face are the shots that every mother will treasure.

tip #10: remember to relax and enjoy The day, like your baby’s first year, will go by too quickly. And even though you may be recording every step along the way, just make sure you and your child are enjoying it as much as possible. Don’t get too caught up in the minor details. Look at the big picture and let you and your baby just be yourselves.

After all, you can always restage the photos if you absolutely have to.

Sara Wright writes from her home in Kansas City, where she will soon be planning her daughter’s first birthday!

tip #9: let your baby have her cake and eat it too Having a smaller, individual cake for your little one is something that is becoming kcparent.com winter 2011-12

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OMG! I think I’m Pregnant!

W

hether you have been trying to get pregnant for years and finally succeeded or you just received the surprise of your life, obtaining prenatal care needs to be the top item on your to-do list. Early prenatal care allows you to discuss harmful habits to cease and helpful habits to begin. Regardless of your situation, you can relax in the fact that most pregnancies go off without a hitch.

How do I know if I am pregnant? To find out if you are pregnant, get a pregnancy test. All urine and blood pregnancy tests rely on the detection of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) that is produced by the placenta. These levels rise shortly after implantation and double every 48 hours or so until they reach a peak around day 50 to 75.

First Trimester: Conception- Week 12

Your first appointment might take up to an hour, and you can expect the following: • Thorough history and physical examination, including height and weight and breast exam • Blood tests to evaluate for various genetic disorders and to evaluate blood group and Rh type • Urinalysis • Pap smear with cervical cultures to evaluate

Pregnancy produces several common symptoms: • No menstrual period • Nausea • Vomiting • Breast tenderness or tingling • Urinary frequency • Weight gain If you have any of the above symptoms, you should visit your doctor.

for infections • Checking for fetal heart tones if you are 12-13 weeks along • If you are 35 or older, you might be counseled on genetics, as well as offered an amniocentesis to evaluate for congenital abnormalities.

When to seek medical care: • Labor begins or a rupture of membranes (leaking fluid) • Abdominal or vaginal pain • Bright red vaginal bleeding • Vomiting more than three times a day or vomiting blood • Severely elevated blood pressure (greater than 140/90) • Sudden and rapid weight gain • Severe headache or changes in vision • Severe leg or chest pain

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So the pregnancy test confirmed that you are pregnant, and now it’s time to visit your doctor for the first time. Once you have made the appointment, you can expect to see your doctor, midwife, nurse practitioner or physician’s assistant.

Eating for two: Your health care provider may spend some time discussing your diet. Taking a prenatal vitamin with iron and folic acid is essential, as well as eating plenty of fruits and vegetables and avoiding fish that may contain mercury, such as tuna. There has not been a safe level of alcohol intake established. Alcohol intake during pregnancy may lead to fetal alcohol syndrome. Along with alcohol, recreational drugs and cigarettes should be avoided.

Cigarette smoking can lead to placenta abruption and placenta previa, preterm delivery, low birth weight and possibly an ectopic pregnancy.

Exercise: While you are pregnant, you will be expending a lot of energy, and your body will need a lot of rest. Take advantage of the opportunity to nap! These may be some of the last naps you get for some time to come.

You also should avoid strenuous exercise and activity such as heavy lifting. That’s right, ladies….ask your man for help! Regular exercise may be continued but should be discussed with your doctor first.

Second Trimester: Weeks 13-26 The second trimester brings a renewed sense of tranquility and serenity. If you are feeling really good, take advantage of it!

This may be the time to get the baby’s room

ready. Hopefully, the worst of the nausea has passed and your baby isn’t quite big enough to crowd your breathing or eating.You might notice larger breasts and a growing belly. Normal weight gain at this point is approximately 3-4 pounds per month, from the second trimester until delivery. The following are some changes that you might notice during this trimester. Despite this list, this phase really is a blissful time!

Braxton Hicks contractions: these are mini, unpredictable contractions to get ready for the big day * Skin changes: increased circulation may cause certain areas of your body to darken, such as the nipples, face and navel to pubic bone * Stretch marks: common areas for stretch marks are breast tissue, arms, buttocks, thighs and abdomen * Leg cramps * Shortness of breath * Vaginal discharge Attending childbirth classes is a must.

Once you have decided upon the location of your baby’s birth, you may ask that facility if they offer childbirth classes.

Third Trimester: Weeks 27-40…and Beyond The third trimester may be physically and emotionally challenging. It will be more difficult to get comfortable because of the baby’s increased movement, weight gain and continued Braxton Hicks contractions.

Hang in there! You are in the home s-tre-t-ch (no pun intended). If you are experiencing backaches, you might want to try applying heat, getting a massage and sitting in a chair with good support. Planning ahead is important, especially if this is your first baby.

Here are some important items to place on the to-do list: Journal your feelings or write a letter to your baby. * Make a time capsule for your child. * Take photos of yourself pregnant!

Your child will enjoy them someday, even if you don’t think you will. * Read to your baby. * Find a pediatrician. * Discuss circumcision if you are having a boy. * Define your birth plan with your doctor. * Gather supplies, whether you are breastfeeding, bottle feeding or both.

To learn more about pregnancy and childbirth, please talk with your doctor. You may also want to visit the local library or bookstore for more information. Enjoy this wonderful time!

Melanie Yunger, a local nurse practitioner, has been pregnant twice.

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pregnancy fear factors I never imagined that such an amazing thing as being pregnant and giving birth would scare me so much.

Hospital Directory Centerpoint Medical Center 816.698.7000 CenterpointMedical.com Liberty Hospital 816.792.7213 LibertyHospital.org Menorah Medical Center 913.498.6000 MenorahMedicalCenter.com North Kansas City Hospital 816.691.5179 NKCH.org Olathe Medical Center 913.791.4235 OHSI.com Overland Park Regional Medical Center 913.541.5300 OPRMC.com Providence Medical Center 913.281.7777 Providence-Health.org Research Medical Center 816.276.4000 ResearchMedicalCenter.com Shawnee Mission Medical Center 913.676.2000 ShawneeMission.org St. Joseph Medical Center 816.943.4645 CarondeletHealth.org/sjhc Saint Luke’s Hospital (KC, North, South, Lee’s Summit) SaintLukesHealthSystem.org St. Mary’s Medical Center 816.655.5574 CarondeletHealth.org Truman Medical Center on Holmes 816.404.0350 TruMed.org Truman Medical Center Lakewood 816.404.8245 TruMed.org.

The University of Kansas Hospital 913.588.5000 KUMed.com

Birthing Center New Birth Company 913.735.4888 NewBirthCompany.com Descriptions of the above listings are available online at KCParent.com. Click on “Guides” & then “Hospital Guide.”

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heme parks should have a ride called “The Next Nine Months” to exemplify the emotions a woman and her partner go through while expecting. A roller coaster is about the closest thing I can think of to demonstrate the drastic changes of emotion— with all of the highs and lows, twists and turns causing feelings of anticipation, worry and excitement—that are so common during pregnancy. When the ride is finally over, it’s left you breathless and dizzy, yet beaming with a sense of accomplishment—because you survived!

While there is a beautiful, dreamy state of being pregnant, with decorating your nursery, picking out names and guessing whose eyes and nose your little one will have, there are fears that every expecting mother- and father-to-be have.

Fear Factor – Having a Miscarriage The Real Deal – The possibility of losing a baby weighs heavily on all expectant mothers’ minds, especially in the first trimester. Less than 20 percent of all pregnancies end up in miscarriages. They are more likely to occur within the first few weeks of conception, before being detected as a pregnancy and would be recognized as a regular menstrual cycle; most women don’t even realize they had a miscarriage. The rate drops drastically, to less than 5 percent at 6-8 weeks, when doctors detect a heartbeat.

Talk to your physician about your concerns and questions about miscarriage. Most miscarriages occur because of a baby’s chromosomal defects. And remember, if you do experience a miscarriage, grieving is a normal response. Seek out the support of those who love you and others who have experienced this loss.

Fear Factor – Going into Preterm Labor The Real Deal – Only 12 percent (1 in 8) of pregnancies go into preterm labor. While there is no certain reason why a woman goes into preterm labor, it’s helpful to know there are three groups of women that run a greater risk of giving birth before 37 weeks: women who have had a previous preterm birth, women who are pregnant with multiples and women with certain uterine or cervical abnormalities.

“My prescription for my preterm labor with my twins was bed rest, and that is the reason I was able to carry them to 32 weeks,” says Janie Woods, Kansas City mother of twins.

“While it was scary to be on bed rest, it would have been even scarier to have delivered them at 22 weeks, which was how far along I was when my doctor placed me on bed rest.”

Still Fearful?

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Write out all the questions and concerns you have, before becoming

years of

pregnant and during the pregnancy, and review them with your doctor at every appointment.

Refrain from comparing your colleague’s pregnancy, as each person and each pregnancy is different.

Journal your feelings and the changes you experience in your pregnancy on a regular basis.

Speak with your partner and share your

CONNECTING WITH KANSAS CITY FAMILIES

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Fear Factor – Labor Will Be Tough or Painful The Real Deal – There is no getting around the fact that there will be some pain and discomfort during labor, but the important thing is to keep a positive attitude going into it. Take steps to stay comfortable and become educated with the laboring process. Most hospitals offer birthing classes or Lamaze classes that explain helpful breathing techniques or positioning to cope with the pain.

“I never imagined that such an amazing thing as being pregnant and giving birth would scare me so much,” says Amber Kelly, Belton mother of one.

Ask your doctor about pain control options that are safe for you and your baby, like Demerol or receiving an epidural.

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Fear Factor – Needing an Emergency C-Section The Real Deal – A third of pregnancies end in a c-section, and while many women, including me, couldn’t even entertain the idea, sometimes it’s a medical necessity either for the mother or the baby.

“I didn’t even know what was going to happen to me as they rushed me down the hall for a c-section because the cord was wrapped around my daughter’s neck. All I kept thinking was that I didn’t have a plan B. I was supposed to have a vaginal birth!” shares Jenny Moore, Olathe mother of two.

The majority of the c-sections that do occur are planned ahead of time, for reasons like a baby’s being breech, too big or because of a previous c-section. Get a birth plan together before being admitted into the hospital, and keep an open mind to the alternatives. The more educated and prepared you are, the more you will feel in control and less surprised or scared of having that c-section.

Whether you’re lying awake at night obsessing about the awful nicknames your child will be given in grade school or a potential emergency c-section, you aren’t alone. Those fears and worries—fact-based or hormonal—are typical. Give yourself a break. If you haven’t already noticed, you’re pregnant for goodness’ sake.

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A Belton resident, Jennifer Duxbury is a freelance writer, full-time mom to her 19-monthold son and a pregnancy fear survivor! kcparent.com winter 2011-12

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The weather outside is frightful and the

Beat the Winter Blahs: Fun Winter Outings for Little Ones

snow isn’t so delightful… memories of snowmen and sledding seem magical and nostalgic, but reality is often something quite different if you’re home with little children and it’s cold or snowy.

Entertaining small children without cabin fever setting in is a challenge. Fortunately, there are many family-friendly venues in Kansas City where you can enjoy a winter’s day of learning, exercising and beating the winter blahs!

Cultivate a Love of Learning Young children learn best when the opportunities are hands-on and engaging. These venues offer FREE educational outings for little ones: KidScape at the Johnson County Museum (6305 Lackman, Shawnee, KS, 913.715.2550) is a FREE hands-on child-sized city. The exhibit features a hospital where children pretend to be a doctor, city hall with cars and trucks, theater with costumes and a real stage, shops with items the children can sell, and a park with tot-sized mini golf and fishing. Kids love to play and explore the adult world through their eyes.

Crown Center’s Animal Tales and Trails (2500 Grand, KCMO, 816.274.8444) is a FREE exhibit for children at Crown Center Feb. 4-April 29 during regular shopping hours.

Children learn about the most interesting creatures as they join the polar bear in his cave and help him ice fish, slide down the penguin iceberg slide, jump with the kangaroo on a small trampoline and much more.

Library Story Time. Your local library is one of the best places for young children.

Offering lap time for infants and toddle time and preschool story time for older children, librarians engage kids with books, snacks, crafts and games. Check your library’s calendar for additional events, including puppet shows, children’s concerts and special holiday programs. Visit KCParent.com and search for “Library” to find a story time near you.

Visit a Local Museum. Whether you’re home with a baby who is too young to talk, or toddlers who are beginning to explore, many local museums offer a great outing for mother and child. Spend an hour exploring the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art (4525 Oak St., KCMO, 816.751.1278) with little ones in strollers (for toddlers, search for “Nelson-Atkins Scavenger Hunt” on KCParent.com), or take your tikes to the Toy and Miniature Museum (5235 Oak St., KCMO, 816.333.9328) where many exhibits are at stroller height. Visit right after mealtime when children are content and spend an hour or so before you go. Refueling mom’s thinktank can be just as beneficial to your family as an afternoon of abc’s for your child.

Walk on the Wild Side… favorite winter animal outings!

We often think of petting zoos and parks as a summer outing, but many venues offer indoor animal exhibits that are perfect for less-crowded cold months: Visit the Zoo! The Kansas City Zoo (6800 Zoo Dr., KCMO, 816.513.5800, KansasCityZoo.org) is open year-round. In fact, winter is one of the best times to visit, as the animals are especially playful and the zoo isn’t crowded. The indoor exhibits at the Tropics, Discovery Barn and Snake House are great on chilly days, and the highlight of your trip will be a visit to the Polar Bear Passage, where your little ones delight in watching Nikita swim and play right before their eyes! Pack a picnic and eat inside as you watch Nikita’s antics.

Bonus: Weather permitting, enjoy a ride on the carousel or train for more fun.

Animal Watching at Local Nature Centers! Kansas City is home to many wonderful nature centers, but these are some of our favorites: Burr Oak Woods (1401 NW Park Rd., Blue Springs, MO, 816.228.3766) is one of our favorite outings on a cold afternoon. You’ll meet an animatronic Smokey Bear teaching children fire safety, see a large aquarium of Missouri’s fresh water fish, snakes, turtles, toads and more. Best of all, they offer wonderful

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kcparent.com winter 2011-12

free educational programs for the family, including Babes in the Woods for infants and Little Acorns for preschoolers, with hands-on activities kids enjoy. Lakeside Nature Center (4701 E. Gregory Blvd., Kansas City, MO, 816.513.8960) is home to some of the best animal exhibits in the area, with falcons, owls, eagles, toads, frogs, fish, insects and wonderful exhibits on the animals in our city and in our homes. Lastly, Prairie Park Nature Center (2730 Harper St., Lawrence, KS, 785.832.7980) features reptiles, amphibians, birds and mammals, as well as a hands-on center for preschoolers, including nature puppets, puzzles and activities. Looking for more? Visit KCParent.com and search for “Nature” to find a center near you.

Window Shopping… or not! If your children love to watch fish swim, they’ll enjoy visiting Cabela’s (10300 Cabela Dr., KCKS, 913.328.0322) or Bass Pro (Olathe: 12051 Bass Pro Dr., 913.254.5200 and Independence: 18001 Bass Pro Dr., 816.795.4300), each home to large aquariums with fish and animal exhibits. Toddlers also love trips to the local pet store where they can watch birds, fish, gerbils, puppies, kittens and bunnies as they play. You may even be able to visit during pet feeding times or demonstrations for more fun!

Get the Wiggles Out! Children need to exercise and play, but that can be tough when it’s too cold for the backyard swing set. Consider a day of swimming or indoor play!

Go for a Swim! Kansas City boasts dozens of terrific indoor pools (see KCGoingPlaces.com for listings), from lap pools to full indoor water parks complete with slides, lazy rivers and more. Best of all, many offer terrific toddler areas and you don’t have to worry about big crowds if you swim while school is in session. Our three favorite inexpensive but fun-filled options are: Matt Ross Community Center in Overland Park (913.895.6350), Legacy Park Community Center in Lee’s Summit (816.969.1550) and The View Community Center in Grandview (816.316.4888).

Indoor Play: Inflatable play places, gyms and local churches with indoor play equipment and coffee shops for moms are popular places for play dates. See KCParent.com and search for “Indoor Play” to find a great play place near you!

Kristina Light loves to combat cabin fever with visits to the library and local museums.

CLASSIFIEDS

Arbonne International. Arbonne is an herbal and botanically based skincare, baby care, make-up and wellness company. If you are interested in a business opportunity where you can be home with your baby and make significant income, contact Kim at kim@hoffmanmodels.com, or 913.642.1060.

Scentsy Wickless Candles. Check out Scentsy warmers a safe alternative to candles!! Scentsy warmers use a lowwatt light bulb to melt the wax. If you are interested in hosting a party or joining the business contact me today!

Tracy Damario, Scentsy Indep. SuperStar Director, www.wicklessinfo.com 816.213.8103.

Advertise in KC Baby’s Classifieds for only $1 a day.

Call 913.782.3238 for information. kcparent.com winter 2011-12

23

Secrets of the

Second Pregnancy

F

irst pregnancies can be glorious, fear inducing, and awe inspiring, often all in one day. But what about the second or third time around? It’s easy to adopt a beenthere-done-that attitude during a second pregnancy. One pregnancy is essentially the same as the next, right? Think again.

Women in their second or greater pregnancy feel their baby’s kicks and wiggles sooner than with the first. Most women feel the first baby move by the 20th week of pregnancy. With subsequent pregnancies, you could feel the baby move by the 15th or 16th week, or even earlier.

Every child, every woman and every pregnancy is different No two pregnancies are alike. If you were sick throughout your first pregnancy, this one might sail by with barely a hint of nausea. Couldn’t stand the sight of ice cream last time? You may eat it morning, noon and night with this one. There is no way to know how each pregnancy, and each child, will turn out. There are, however, a few common differences with subsequent pregnancies.

Less Lamaze Labor and delivery also tend to be shorter with sequel pregnancies. Women in their second pregnancy tend to labor before the due date. Again, your body has done this once before. Some of this can also be attributed to the mother’s being more relaxed and self-assured. This is where the been-there-done-that mind-set actually can help. Labor for any mother tends to run more quickly when she is relaxed and as calm as possible. Having already gone through labor and delivery once can take the fear of the unknown out of the equation.

The Belly Bump You may find yourself grabbing those maternity pants sooner than expected. Like a balloon that’s easier to inflate the second or third time, so too is the uterus. The Mayo Clinic refers to this as the “warmed up” effect. Abdominal muscles and ligaments have already been stretched once making it oh so easy to stretch again.

The Pain Was there bad back pain with the first baby? If so, you can expect this pain again. It will probably be more intense and definitely start sooner. The same seems to apply to pelvic pressure as well.

Women who have joint or back problems before pregnancy will have to break out the heating pads. “For women with back and hip problems before pregnancy, these will be worse during pregnancy,” Warns Dr. Amy Trout, an OB/GYN at the Independence Women’s Clinic. “We get a lot of aches and pains sooner, too.”

Quicker Quickening It’s not all pain and gain, though.

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kcparent.com winter 2011-12

Wisdom from Experience Having gone through pregnancy once can make the second easier. As with labor and delivery, you know what to expect. You know the main components that make a pregnancy. Nothing is as scary as it is the first time. “Most moms are not as nervous about labor the second time around like they were the first time and seem to do just fine. For most of us, we are so busy with our first child, we don’t seem so worried during our next pregnancy!” Dr. Trout says.

The most important thing to remember is to enjoy each and every pregnancy as its own. No two are alike and each one, like each child, is extraordinary in its own way.

Kerry Chafin is a freelance writer based in Independence and is a mother of three.

We asked KC Parent Facebook fans: was

pregnancy easier the second time around?

75%

20%

5%

No, I found it was harder the second time around.

Yes, my body seemed to adjust more quickly.

About the same for both pregnancies.

Tunnels, games, puzzles...lots for your little one to play & learn. $1-2/child. 913.895.6390 December 21 An Elves’ Day Off 10:00, Roeland Park Aquatic Center.

Enjoy a day of sweet treats and pool time. $5/ages 3 and up. Free/under 3. 913. 831.3359 JoHo Storyteller 10:00 Johnson County Museum.

Today’s theme is “Joy to the World!” Free storytelling for young children. 913.715.2552 Animal Tales: A Visit with Santa 10:30, Ernie Miller Nature Center. Visit the nature center for stories, songs and surprises geared to preschool children. $2/ea.

913.764.7759 December 22 Bumper Bowling at Mission Bowl Every Thu, 10:00, Mission Bowl. Bowling, shoe rental, bumpers for preschoolers & a small soft drink for $3/person.

913.432.7000 Winter Wonderland Party 1:00, Whole Foods Market.

Kids will get to make snow crafts and sparkle cards.

913.652.9633

CALENDAR winter family events 2011-12

December 15 The Gingerbread Boy Thru Dec 23, Lenexa Community Center. Puppet show telling of the little cookie boy who runs as fast as he can because he is the gingerbread man. 913.837.3544 A Visit with Santa Claus 10:30, North Oak Library.

Kids, come visit with Santa and listen as he tells an exciting holiday story. Register at 816.436.4385.

A Christmas Carol Thru Dec 26, Spencer Theatre. For more than three decades, the Rep’s enchanting holiday show has inspired families. 816.235.2700 Mr Stinky Feet’s Christmas 7:00, Raytown Library.

Celebrate the holidays with singing, dancing and stinky feet! Fun for the whole family. 816.353.2052 A Christmas Carol Thru Dec 16, Rose Theater. CYT presents its retelling of Dickens’ classic, A Christmas Carol. 913.681.3318 The Nutcracker Thru Dec 24, Muriel Kauffman Theatre.

Magnificent sets, costumes, choreography and the acclaimed KC Symphony. 816.931.2232 December 16 Victorian Holiday Display Thru Jan1, Powell Gardens.

The conservatory is decked out for the holidays.

816.697.2600 Christmas at Lanesfield Thru Dec 31, Lanesfield School Historic Site. Drop in and see the school decorated for an old-fashioned Christmas!

Burning River Brass: Our Kind of Christmas 8:00, Yardley Hall. Twelve of the finest brass and percussion players in the country. 913.469.8500 December 17 Pancakes with Santa 9:00, Powell Gardens. Chris Cakes pancakes with Santa, crafts, stories and minitrain. Reservations req’d. 816.697.2600 Fairy Princess at the KC Museum Thru Dec 18, Kansas City Museum. Visit the princess and get your own royal photograph and receive a magical gift.

816.483.8300 Mother Nature Reads 10:00, Lakeside Nature Center.

Every Saturday, enjoy a story, learn cool facts about animals and make a craft. 816.513.8960 Spirit of Christmas Sale 10:00, Children’s Orchard (Olathe & Independence). Take 30% off regularly priced

resale clothes, toys & equipment. ChildOrch.com Dino O’Dell Concert Noon, Crown Center. Enjoy holiday music for kids and families. Shows at Noon and 2:00.

FREE. 816.274.8444 Mr Stinky Feet’s Christmas 11:00, Blue Springs South Library. Celebrate the holidays with singing, dancing and stinky feet! 816.229.3571 Treasures from Toyland 11:00, Puppetry Arts Institute.

Visit the workshop of wishes as holiday puppets come alive in song. $5/ea. 816.833.9777 Whoville Holidays 11:00, City Market. Who’s of all ages can get their picture taken with the Grinch and check out the Whoville fun in the children’s activity area.

TheCityMarket.org KC Symphony Christmas Festival 1:00, Kauffman Center. Kansas City’s grandest holiday concert returns for five performances. 816.471.0400 art+family=FUN Today & tomorrow, 1:00-4:00, Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Enjoy informal looking and hands-on activities. Nelson-Atkins.org Santa Is Coming to KidScape 2:00, Johnson County Museum. Bring your camera and take a picture of your child with Santa. 913.715.2550 December 18 Stories with Santa’s Friends 1:00, Whole Foods Market. Listen to story time favorites read by Santa’s friends. 913.652.9633 Father Christmas 1:30, Toy & Miniature Museum. Jim “Two Crows” Wallen plays Father Christmas and tells stories! 816.333.9328 Trans-Siberian Orchestra Christmas Concert 3:00, Sprint Center. Multi-dimensional art form of the rock opera. 800.745.3000 The Story Tour: Christmas Spectacular 6:00, Independence Events Center. A musical journey from Genesis to Revelation. Ticketmaster.com December 19 Santa’s Crayola Christmas Land Thru Dec 31, Crown Center. Play on super-sized Crayola® products while waiting to tell Santa holiday wishes. 816.274.8444 December 20 Toddle Time 10:00, Matt Ross Community Center.

December 24: Christmas Eve Puppet Nativity 4:00, St Peter’s United Church of Christ. The Christmas story performance features largerthan-life puppets. 913.262.7414 December 25: Christmas Day Thanks to the Kansas City Community for 9 years of readership and support!

December 26 Moms FREE Monday 10:00, Paradise Park. Moms are free at the Children’s EduTainment Center with a paid child’s admission. Every Monday! 816.246.5224 December 27 Holiday Big Screen Movies Thru Dec 30, Irene B French Community Center. Join us for a FREE showing of four family movies over the holiday break.

913.322.5550 December 28 Pop ‘n Play 9:00, Johnson County Museum. Come for activities designed especially for your 9-month- to 3-year-olds. $1/child. 913.715.2552 December 29 Bumper Bowling at Mission Bowl Every Thu,10:00, Mission Bowl. Bowling, shoe rental, bumpers for preschoolers & a small soft drink for $3/person.

913.432.7000 December 30 Music in the Museum 2:00, Toy and Miniature Museum. Simple Strings plays 19th century folk music in the museum between Christmas and New Year’s!

816.333.9328 December 31: New Year’s Eve Rockin’ & Readin’ Nature Tales 11:00, Burr Oak Woods Nature Center. Join us for a story hour as we lead you on fantastic nature adventures! 816.228.2766 January 1: New Year’s Day Victorian Holiday Display 9:00, Powell Gardens.

The conservatory is decked out for the holidays.

816.697.2600 January 2 Stroller Time 9:00, Harris Park Community Center.

Register in advance. Bring your stroller and kiddos to work off the winter chills. $3/ea. 816.969.1540 January 3 Ice Terrace 2-for-1 Tuesday 5:00, Crown Center Ice Terrace. After 5:00, pay one full price admission and kcparent.com winter 2011-12

25

Baby Buck Sale at Children’s Orchard Jan. 14

$

$

receive a second for FREE. 816.274.8444 January 4 Open Play Area 9:30, Stanley Presbyterian Church.

First Wednesday of every month. Toys in the Fellowship Hall but feel free to bring ride-on toys from home.

January 5 FREE Open Play 8:00, Cedar Ridge Christian Church.

Indoor playground and toys for children and coffeehouse for caregivers. Open daily. 913.393.3000 January 6 Family Night 4:00, Little Monkey Bizness. Enjoy indoor play especially for little ones on Tuesdays & Fridays. $6/ child; $4/crawler 913.631.7000

JUST WHAT YOU WANT

THE BEST WEEKEND PLANNER FOR FAMILY FUN IN KC!

January 7 Mother Nature Reads 10:00, Lakeside Nature Center.

Every Saturday, enjoy a story, learn cool facts about animals and make a craft. 816.513.8960 Special Needs Parents’ Night Out 5:30, Legacy Christian Church hosts a free monthly Parents’ Night Out for families with special needs. 913.962.5271 January 8 Fiddler on the Roof 7:00, Yardley Hall. This Broadway smash and Tony Award winner makes the perfect date night. 913.469.8500 January 9 Moms FREE Monday 10:00, Paradise Park. Moms are free at the Children’s EduTainment Center with a paid child’s admission. Every Monday! 816.246.5224 January 10 Open Play Every Tue & Thu, 9:30, Irene French Comm Ctr. Enjoy Step 2 climbers, Little Tykes toys and more. $2/child. 913.322.5550 January 11 National Thank You Day Write a thank you note to a friend you especially appreciate.

Pop ‘n Play 9:00, Johnson County Museum. Join us for activities designed especially for your 9-month- to 3-year-olds. $1/child. 913.715.2552 January 12 Visit the Nature Center 9:00, Martha Lafite Thompson Nature Sanctuary. See live animal exhibits and enjoy nature this winter. 816.781.8598 Bumper Bowling Every Thu, 10:00, Mission Bowl.

Bowling, shoe rental, bumpers for preschoolers & a small soft drink for $/person. 913.432.7000 January 13 Explore Nature 10:00, Burr Oak Woods Nature Center.

Enjoy a free visit to the nature center to see live animals and exhibits. 816.228.2766 Pint-Size Playtime 10:00, Harris Park Community Center. Pre-register for this preschool gym time! Kids enjoy jump ropes, balls and more. 816.969.1540 January 14 Baby Buck Sale 10:00, Children’s Orchard (Olathe & Independence). All regularly priced infant clothing (NB12 mo) is $1 for items $4.99 or less during this ONE DAY sale. ChildOrch.com Mother Nature Reads 10:00, Lakeside Nature Center.

Every Saturday, enjoy a story, learn cool facts about animals and make a craft. 816.513.8960 January 15 Visit the Nature Center 1:00, Prairie Oak Nature Center. Hands-on exhibits and live animals for children to visit. 913.681.0902 January 16 FREE Family Sessions 12:50, Kaleidoscope. Children choose from the wide variety of art materials in this FREE art experience. 816.274.8300

Join the 14,000 people who already enjoy our FREE weekly eNews. Subscribe today at KCParent.com.

Plus, join our nearly 7,000 Facebook Followers! facebook.com/kansascityparent

26

kcparent.com winter 2011-12

January 17 Ice Terrace 2-for-1 Tuesday 5:00, Crown Center Ice Terrace. After 5:00, pay one full price admission and receive a second for FREE. 816.274.8444 January 18 Winnie the Pooh Day Snuggle up at home with your favorite little one and a story about your favorite bear.

Open Play Every Wed, 10:00-Noon, Shawnee Civic Center. Climbing toys, toddler sports and ride-on toys. $2/child. 913.631.5200 January 19 Explore Nature 8:30, George Owens Nature Park.

Experience the beauty of winter at the nature park; open year round with forest, lakes, hiking trails and wildlife.

816.325.7115 January 20 Toddler Town 10:00, Roger T Sermon Community Center. Children 5 and under enjoy visiting our indoor playground. Every Mon/Wed/Fri thru Mar 17. $1/child.

816.325.7370 January 21 Spring Big Brand Event 10:00, Children’s Orchard (Olathe & Independence). Get big name spring fashions at the lowest prices. ChildOrch.com January 22 Open Play Explorer Room 9:00, Matt Ross Community Center. Free indoor play facility with tunnels. Open daily. Call for hours. 913.895.6350 January 23 Open Play 10:00, Jumping Jax. Indoor inflatable play facility with parent’s lounge featuring free wi-fi.

913.469.5867 January 24 Open Play Every Tue & Thu, 9:30, Irene French Comm Ctr. Enjoy Step 2 climbers, Little Tykes toys and more. $2/child. 913.322.5550 January 25 Pop ‘n Play 9:00, Johnson County Museum. Join us for activities designed especially for your 9-month- to 3-year-olds. $1/child. 913.715.2552 January 27 Mahaffie Kansas Day 10:00, Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop and Farm. Visit with Kansas characters and enjoy our “Winter on the Farm” activities. 913.971.5111 January 28 Kansas Day Art Contest 9:00, Grinter Place. Local artists participate in the Kansas Day art contest.

913.299.0373 Kansas Day 9:00, Shawnee Indian Mission. Join us for a commemoration of the 151st anniversary of Kansas’ statehood. 913.262.0867 Further Adventures of Jack’s Cow 11:00, Puppetry Arts Institute. A hand puppet show telling what happened to the cow in the story of Jack and the Beanstalk.

816.833.9777 January 29 Tchaikovsky Discovers America 2:30, Kauffman Center. Classical Kids present a powerful tale about Russia’s most famous composer and his visit to America.

816.471.0400 Corbian: The Ugly Duckling & The Tortoise & The Hare 3:00, Folly Theater. Performance telling the classic tales with a modern twist. 816.842.

January 30 Stroller Time! 9:00, Harris Park Community Center.

Register in advance. Bring your stroller and kiddos to work off the winter chills. $3/ea. 816.969.1540 Moms FREE Monday 10:00, Paradise Park. Moms are free at the Children’s EduTainment Center with a paid child’s admission. Every Monday! 816.246.5224 January 31 Ice Terrace 2-for-1 Tuesday 5:00, Crown Center Ice Terrace. After 5:00, pay one full price admission and receive a second for FREE. 816.274.8444 February 1 Open Play Area First Wed each month, 9:30, Stanley Presbyterian Church. Toys in the Fellowship Hall but feel free to bring ride-on toys from home.

Disney’s Aladdin Thru Feb 5, Muriel Kauffman Theater.

most interesting creatures. FREE. 816.274.8444

Fresh Beat Band at The Midland Feb. 24

February 13 Stroller Time! 9:00, Harris Park Community Center.

Register in advance. Bring your stroller and kiddos to work off the winter chills. $3/ea. 816.969.1540 Moms FREE Monday 10:00, Paradise Park. Moms are free at the Children’s EduTainment Center with a paid child’s admission. 816.246.5224 February 14: Valentine’s Day Open Play 10:00, Jumping Jax. Indoor inflatable play facility with parent’s lounge featuring free wi-fi.

Open 10:00-3:00 Mon-Wed, and 10:00-6:00 Thu-Fri. 913.469.5867 February 16 Visit the Nature Center 9:00, Martha Lafite Thompson Nature Sanctuary. See live animal exhibits and enjoy nature this winter. 816.781.8598

In January, log onto KCParent.com to win tickets!

The stage adaptation of Disney’s Aladdin features an Academy Award-winning musical score.

KCStarlight.com February 2: Groundhog Day Explore Nature 8:30, George Owens Nature Park.

Experience the beauty of winter at the nature park; open year round with forest, lakes, hiking trails and wildlife.

816.325.7115 Bumper Bowling at Mission Bowl Every Thu, 10:00, Mission Bowl. Bowling, shoe rental, bumpers for preschoolers & a small soft drink for $3/person.

913.432.7000 February 3 Family Night Tue & Fri, 4:00, Little Monkey Bizness.

Enjoy indoor play especially for little ones. $6/child; $4/ crawler. 913.631.7000 February 4 Breakfast with the Beasts 10:00, Lakeside Nature Center. Eat what the animals eat and enjoy crafts, face painting and more. $5/child. 816.513.8960 Animal Tales & Trails Thru Apr 29, Crown Center. Enter an interactive habitat where children learn about the most interesting creatures. FREE. 816.274.8444 Special Needs Parents’ Night Out 5:30, Legacy Christian Church hosts a free monthly Parents’ Night Out for families with special needs. 913.962.5271 February 5 Visit Nikita 9:30, Kansas City Zoo. The zoo is open year-round, and Nikita the Polar Bear finds home in a terrific indoor exhibit for cold winter days! 816.513.5800

February 17 Toddler Town 10:00, Roger T Sermon Community Center. Children 5 and under enjoy visiting our indoor playground. Every Mon/Wed/Fri thru Mar 17. $1/child.

816.325.7370 Center. Climbing toys, toddler sports and ride-on toys. $2/child. 913.631.5200 February 9 Alice: A Wonderful New Musical Thru Feb 12, YouthFront Auditorium. The ever-curious Alice falls through a rabbit hole. 913.681.3318 February 10 Explore Nature 10:00, Burr Oak Woods Nature Center.

Enjoy a free visit to the nature center to see live animals and exhibits. 816.228.2766 Pint Size Valentine Party 10:00, Harris Park Community Center. Register in advance for the party! Dress in red and join us in a Valentine’s Day celebration! $4/ ea. 816.969.1540 February 11 Mother Nature Reads 10:00, Lakeside Nature Center.

Every Saturday, enjoy a story, learn cool facts about animals and make a craft. 816.513.8960 February 12 Animal Tales & Trails Thru Apr 29, Crown Center. Enter an interactive habitat where children learn about the

February 18 FREE Family Sessions 12:50, Kaleidoscope. Children choose from the wide variety of art materials in this FREE art experience. 816.274.8300 Mother Nature Reads 10:00, Lakeside Nature Center.

Every Saturday, enjoy a story, learn cool facts about animals and make a craft. 816.513.8960 February 19 Visit the Nature Center 1:00, Prairie Oak Nature Center. Hands-on exhibits and live animals for children to visit. 913.681.0902 February 21 Open Play Every Tue & Thu, 9:30, Irene French Comm Ctr. Enjoy Step 2 climbers, Little Tykes toys and more. $2/child. 913.322.5550 February 22 Pop ‘n Play 9:00, Johnson County Museum. Join us for activities designed especially for your 9-month- to 3-year-olds. $1/child. 913.715.2552 Open Play Every Wed, 10:00-Noon, Shawnee Civic Center. Climbing toys, toddler sports and ride-on toys. $2/child. 913.631.5200

Enrolling Early Childhood

February 6 Moms FREE Monday 10:00, Paradise Park. Moms are free at the Children’s EduTainment Center with a paid child’s admission. 816.246.5224 February 7 FREE Open Play 8:00, Parkside Coffeehouse at Cedar Ridge Christian Church. Indoor playground and toys for children, and coffeehouse for caregivers. Open daily.

913.393.3000 February 8 Pop ‘n Play 9:00, Johnson County Museum. Join us for activities designed especially for your 9-month- to 3-year-olds. $1/child. 913.715.2552, JoCoMuseum.org/Calendar.shtml Open Play Every Wed, 10:00-Noon, Shawnee Civic

Curriculum includes specialized instruction in art, library, movement, music and Spanish.

C a l l us today!

816 - 277-0306

kcparent.com winter 2011-12

27

Dr. Seuss’s Birthday March 2

enjoy jump ropes, balls, hula hoops, parachutes and more. 816.969.1540 Fresh Beat Band Concert 5:00, Midland Theater. Nick Jr’s Fresh Beat Band is performing LIVE in Kansas City!

MidlandKC.com February 25 Mother Nature Reads 10:00, Lakeside Nature Center.

Every Saturday, enjoy a story, learn cool facts about animals and make a craft. 816.513.8960 February 26 Visit Nikita 9:30, Kansas City Zoo. The zoo is open year-round, and Nikita the Polar Bear finds home in a terrific indoor exhibit for cold winter days! 816.513.5800 February 27 Stroller Time! 9:00, Harris Park Community Center.

Register in advance. Bring your stroller and kiddos to work off the winter chills. $3/ea. 816.969.1540 February 28 Open Play 10:00, Jumping Jax. Indoor inflatable play facility with parent’s lounge featuring free wi-fi.

Open 10:00-3:00 Mon-Wed, and 10:00-6:00 Thu-Fri. 913.469.5867

February 23 Seussical Jr Thru Feb 26, YouthFront Auditorium.

Explore the witty, wild and whimsical world of Dr Seuss as you’ve never seen it before. 913.681.3318 February 24 Pint-Size Playtime 10:00, Harris Park Community Center. Pre-register for this preschool gym time! Kids

February 29 Open Play Explorer Room 9:00, Matt Ross Community Center. Free indoor play facility with tunnels. Open daily. Call for hours. 913.895.6350 March 1 Bumper Bowling Every Thu, 10:00, Mission Bowl.

Bowling, shoe rental, bumpers for preschoolers & a small soft drink for $3/person. 913.432.7000

• Day, evening and weekend appointments.

March 2 Dr Seuss’s Birthday Celebrate the beloved children’s author with some at-home fun! Search for “Seuss” on KCParent.com to discover creative ideas your little one will love!

Family Night 4:00, Little Monkey Bizness. Enjoy indoor play especially for little ones on Tue & Fri. $6/child; $4/ crawler. 913.631.7000 March 3 Spring Holiday Dress-Up Event 10:00, Children’s Orchard. All the best looks for spring at your favorite prices. ChildOrch.com March 4 Visit the Nature Center 1:00, Prairie Oak Nature Center. Hands-on exhibits and live animals for children to visit. 913.681.0902 March 6 Explore Nature 8:30, George Owens Nature Park.

Experience the beauty of winter at the nature park; open year round with forest, lakes, hiking trails and wildlife.

816.325.7115 March 7 Pop ‘n Play 9:00, Johnson County Museum. Join us for activities designed especially for your 9-month- to 3-year-olds. $1/child. 913.715.2552 March 8 Visit the Nature Center 9:00, Martha Lafite Thompson Nature Sanctuary. See live animal exhibits and enjoy nature this winter. 816.781.8598 March 9 Toddler Town 10:00, Roger T. Sermon Community

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kcparent.com winter 2011-12

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Center. Children 5 and under enjoy visiting our indoor playground. Every Mon/Wed/Fri thru Mar 17. $1/child.

816.325.7370 Pint-Size Playtime 10:00, Harris Park Community Center. Pre-register for this preschool gym time! Kids enjoy jump ropes, balls, hula hoops, parachutes and more. 816.969.1540 March 10 Spring Classic: Lee’s Summit Symphony 7:30, Lee’s Summit High School. Pre-concert lecture at 6:30 in the James T Brockman Lecture Hall. 816.401.5251 March 11 Animal Tales & Trails Thru Apr 29, Crown Center. Enter an interactive habitat where children learn about the most interesting creatures. FREE. 816.274.8444 March 12 Open Play Explorer Room 9:00, Matt Ross Community Center. Free indoor play facility with tunnels. Open daily. Call for hours. 913.895.6350 Stroller Time! 9:00, Harris Park Community Center.

Register in advance. Bring your stroller and kiddos to work off the winter chills. $3/ea. 816.969.1540 March 13 FREE Open Play 8:00, Parkside Coffeehouse at Cedar Ridge Christian Church. Indoor playground and toys for children, and coffeehouse for caregivers. Open daily.

913.393.3000 March 15 Explore Nature 10:00, Burr Oak Woods Nature Center.

Enjoy a free visit to the nature center to see live animals and exhibits. 816.228.2766

winter baby giveaway Enter to win a copy of Funky Mama’s newest CD, Sing! (releases February 2012) and a set of 2 car seat and stroller toys from Animal Planet.

A gift pack worth over $30!

Contest ends March 15!

Hurry and enter TODAY at KCParent.com!

December 17-24

SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS SALE

Enjoy 30% off regularly priced resale toys, clothing & equipment.

Offers cannot be combined with any other promotion/discounts.

January 14

BABY $1.00 SALE

All regularly priced infant clothing (NB-12 months) is $1 each for items $4.99 or less during this ONE DAY only!

Offers cannot be combined with any other promotion/discounts.

1 Children’s Orchard 11933 Strang Line Rd. • Olathe, KS 913.780.6600 2 About Nine Months 9205 W. 75th St. • Overland Park, KS 913.563.7875 3 Children’s Orchard 4201 S. Noland Rd. • Independence, MO 816.373.4585 Maternity clothing available.

January 21

SPRING BIG BRAND EVENT

You’ll nd the highest quality big name Spring fashions at the lowest prices! Shop 1/21 for BEST selection.

March 3

SPRING HOLIDAY DRESS-UP EVENT

All the best looks for Spring holidays at your favorite prices. Shop 3/3 for BEST selection!

kcparent.com winter 2011-12

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product recalls: visit the consumer product safety commission on the web at CPSC.gov

Disney Fairies Plastic Racing Trikes

Magnetic Sketchboards

Riding Toy

The trikes are being recalled because the plastic fairy figures protrude from the top of the handle bar posing a laceration hazard if a child falls on them. Immediately take the trikes away from children and contact Kiddieland at 800.430.5307 for a free replacement handlebar.

About 95,000 Sketchboards, sold at Target stores and online retailers, are being recalled because the magnetic tip of the drawing pen can dislodge from the pen, posing a choking hazard to children. Stop using Sketchboards and contact Battat at 866.665.5524 to receive a free replacement Sketchboard.

The Scoot ‘n Zoom riding toy is being recalled due to the riding toy tipping over, which can cause a child to fall forward while riding, posing a fall hazard to young children. Sold at Walmart and online retailers between August 2010 through August 2011.

Contact Radio Flyer at 800.621.7613 to receive a free replacement unit or refund.

IKEA Folding Tent

Soft Dolls

Toy Keys

About 58,000 tents are being recalled because the steel wire frame of the tent can break, producing sharp wire ends that can protrude through the tent fabric, posing a laceration or puncture hazard. Sold at IKEA stores nationwide from August 2011 through September 2011 for about $8. Contact IKEA at 888.966.4532 for a full refund.

Pottery Barn Kids is recalling the Chloe and Sophie soft dolls. The hair on the dolls may contain loops that are large enough to fit around a child’s head and neck, and the headband on the Audrey doll, if loosened, can form a loop that fits around a child’s head and neck. These loops can pose a strangulation hazard. Contact Pottery Barn at 855.880.4504 for a store credit.

Over 1 million toy keys are being recalled because the metal toy keys and the plastic key ring can break, posing a choking hazard.

Consumers should immediately take the recalled toy keys away from children and contact Battat at 866. 665.5524 to receive replacement keys.

Clip-On Chair

Wooden Rattle

Little People® Wagon

The Metoo Clip-on Chair is being recalled due to missing or worn clamp pads which can allow the chairs to detach from a variety of different table surfaces, posing a fall hazard. Consumers should immediately stop using the product and contact phil&teds USA at 855.652.9019 to receive a free repair kit and revised user instructions.

The rattles have been recalled because the toy’s U-shaped parts can break, posing a choking hazard. Consumers should take the rattles away from children immediately and return them to the store where purchased to receive a full refund. Contact Manhattan Group at 800.541.1345 for more information.

Fisher-Price is recalling the wagons because the back of the wagon’s plastic handle has molded-in reinforcement. This design adds stiffness and facilitates children gripping the handle. The handle poses a laceration hazard if a child falls on it. Contact FisherPrice at 800.432.5437 for instructions on how to obtain a free repair kit.

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kcparent.com winter 2011-12

Did you know? KCParent.com has up-to-the-minute product recalls via an RSS Feed on our homepage. Find the latest news to keep your children safe.

kcparent.com winter 2011-12

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healthcare you can trust.

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

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

PHYSICIANS GROUP We offer pediatric walk-in urgent care seven days a week, medical advice by phone, after-hours on-call physicians and online scheduling!

821 SW Lemans Lane Lee’s Summit, Missouri

816.525.4700

Urgent Care (Pediatrics Only) No appointment necessary!

8:00-11:00 am Mon-Friday 4:00-7:00 pm Mon-Thursday

NEW LOCATION

Sat 9-11 am • Sun 1-4 pm (Weekend hours available at Blue Parkway office)

Appts: Mon-Fri 8 am - 5 pm Urgent Care: 8-11 am

Blue Springs Pediatrics 1600 NW South Outer Road Blue Springs, Missouri 816.554.6520

Scheduled appointments Mon - Fri 10-12 pm & 1-4 pm Free Prenatal Consults Mon - Fri 10-12 pm & 1-4 pm

LSPhysicians.com • Raintree-Pediatrics.com • BlueSpringsPediatric.com kcparent.com 32 winter 2011-12