KC Parent Magazine March 2016

FREE | March 2016 | KCParent.com

LET’S CAMP!

KC’S BEST CAMP GUIDE! 20+ pages of greatoptions

SLEEP SOS

your top sleep struggles solved! is “DIET”a four-letter word?

SPRING BREAK staycation, kc style

physicians

lee’s

summit

group

Lee’s Summit Physicians 1425 N.W. Blue Parkway Lee’s Summit, Missouri 816.524.5600 LSPhysicians.com

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

Raintree Pediatrics 995 SW 34th St. Lee’s Summit, Missouri 816.525.4700 Raintree-Pediatrics.com Blue Springs Pediatrics 1600 NW South Outer Road Blue Springs, Missouri 816.554.6520 BlueSpringsPediatric.com

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 Ashley Campbell, DO

Urgent Care Blue Parkway office Mon-Thur 8:00 am - 7:00 pm Friday 8:00 am - 4:00 pm Sat-Sun 8:00 -11:00 am Blue Springs & Raintree Mon-Fri 8:00 am -11:00 am

Danielle Leivian, MD Robin Dawson, MD Cynthia M. Dean, DO Anne Parkin-Cohen, MD Lauren Lee, C-PNP Kelly R. Fritz, C-PNP Julie Kirkpatrick, C-PNP Camille Lucitto, C-PNP Sarah Dedrick, C-PNP

Scheduled appointments Mon-Fri 10:00 -12:00 pm & 1:00 - 4:00 pm Free Prenatal Consults Mon-Fri 10:00 -12:00 pm & 1:00 - 4:00 pm

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kcparent.com march 2016

Angela Stott, C-PNP Kimberly McNerney, C-PNP Tiffany Vitt, C-PNP

Official LEGO Extravaganza! ®

3 DAYS ONLY! May 13–19 • Kansas City Convention Center

Tour coming to Kansas City for the first time!

Don’t Miss Over 3 Acres of LEGO® Family Fun! The extremely popular LEGO KidsFest offers LEGO lovers an exciting, interactive experience — packed with activities and creative fun for the entire family!

Come “swim” in the Big Brick Pile

Learn tips & tricks from a LEGO Master Builder

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GIANT models made entirely of LEGO bricks

Visit www.LEGOkidsfest.com for tickets & more information!

LEGO, the LEGO logo, the Brick & Knob configurations and the Minifigure are trademarks of the LEGO Group. LEGO KidsFest is produced by BuzzEngine. ©2016

Here For Your Family’s Health, On and Off the Field.

TWO Convenient Locations Overland Park (135th & Grandview) Lenexa (91st & Quivira) Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m.-8 p.m. • Sat. & Sun., 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

CentraCareKC.com There’s never a good time to be sick or injured. That’s why when it comes to the health of your family, it’s important to have quick access to health care you can trust. Introducing Centra Care Shawnee Mission Urgent Care. Just walk in or make an online reservation at CentraCareKC.com to see a Board-certified, Centra Care doctor.

· Open seven days a week · On-site X-rays and prescriptions · Most insurance plans accepted

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Even family trees need to be watered from time to time.

Whip down water slides, play our MagiQuest® adventure game, feel the joy at Scooops® Kid Spa, and open your imagination at Story Time before bed. All at America’s premier indoor water park resort.

Come see how it’s perfect for everyone in your pack. greatwolf.com/kansas-city

Everybody in.

TM

kcparent.com march 2016

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MARCH 2016

DEPARTMENTS

20+ PAGE CAMP GUIDE, PGS. 22-39

FEATURES

20

42

56

10

Craft Corner

11

Women’s Health

12

Media Mix

13

Healthy Kids

44

Word from Dad

45

Faith & Family

SPECIAL SECTIONS

Easter Baskets

Life Skills

Staycation

Great ideas for gifts from A to Z

Practical skills to teach your children

Have fun staying in KC for spring break

16

Party Guide

22

Camp Guide

60

Calendar of Events

Our cover features Mia from Leawood.

Cover and select interior photos by KiaBondurant.com.

FREE | March 2016 | KCParent.com

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LET’S CAMP!

ON THE COVER

KC’S BEST CAMP GUIDE!

Is “diet” a four-letter word?

14

greatoptions

Camp Guide

22

Sleep SOS

54

Spring Break Staycation

56

20+ pages of

SLEEP SOS

your top sleep struggles solved! is “DIET” a four-letter word?

SPRING BREAK staycation, kc style

!

!

E C N E I D U A R U O Y THRILL

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EDITOR’SLETTER MARCH 2016

Live Twitter Chat

Join KC Parent and Children’s Mercy Hospital for a live Twitter chat on Wednesday, March 9, at noon. We’ll be discussing food allergies with a local doctor, and there will be some great giveaways during the hour! @BreatheKC

Happy spring and happy Easter, Kansas City!

Associate Publisher Darrell Dean Darrell@KCParent.com Editor Margaret Sarver Margaret@KCParent.com Art Director Kim Tappan Tappan Design Kim@KCParent.com Advertising Sales Darrell Dean Advertising@KCParent.com Electronic Media Manager Kristina Light Kristina@KCParent.com Event Calendar Susan Lynn Calendar@KCParent.com Copy Editor Susan Crainshaw Susan@KCParent.com Distribution To be added to our distribution list, e-mail Distribution@KCParent.com Local Contributing Writers Bill Bartlett (Belton), Melissa Bellach (Kansas City), Jamie Bosse (Overland Park), Tisha Foley (Belton), Christa Hines (Olathe), Jessica Heine (Olathe), Megan Kapple (Kansas City), Gina Klein (Kansas City), Kristina Light (Kansas City), Laura McEachen (Overland Park), Jena Meyerpeter (Lenexa), Jessica Samuel (Kansas City), Tori Walker (Shawnee), Melanie Yunger (Shawnee)

Mailing Address 11936 W. 119th #335, Overland Park, KS 66213 913.782.3238 phone • 913.681.5139 fax OUR PRODUCTS FREE | March 2016 | KCParent.com

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arts, antiques and

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SLEEP SOS

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LOCAL CONTENT

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B

ack during my teaching years, I worked several summers as an assistant director for a local summer day camp. It was loads of work but also tons of fun. Part of the fun was seeing campers return year after year, along with staff and assistants. I also enjoyed the environment.

Camp has a very laid-back, relaxed feel to it. It was a treat to get to work with the kids and see them outside of school.

The March issue is our annual summer camp issue. And while you may look outside and think, “Summer is a LONG way off,” you’ll blink and summer will have arrived! I know from experience that all of these fabulous camps listed in our 20-plus-page guide have been working for months to plan a great experience for Kansas City kids. Whether you’re looking for a day camp, overnight camp, specialized camp, sport camp, etc., we have you covered. So grab a cup of coffee and your kids and enjoy leafing through the camp guide together and planning out the best summer ever!

Do you have spring break plans? We typically don’t travel over spring break, but that doesn’t mean we have to miss out on the fun! If you are staying in KC for your break this year, we’ve got some terrific ideas for you on pg. 56. And our calendar, beginning on pg. 60, has lots of great events to keep you busy the entire break.

Easter comes early this year, so be sure to visit KCParent.com for great egg hunts and other Easter events all over the metro.

Publisher Michael Gimotty Michael@KCParent.com

Circulation verified by:

Kansas City Parent Magazine is published 12 times a year by Family Media Group. It is distributed free of charge throughout the Kansas City area. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect KC Parent’s opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written permission. Kansas City Parent Magazine does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors.

All photography and letters sent to KC Parent will be treated unconditionally assigned for publication and copyright purposes and are subject to unrestricted right to edit and comment editorially. KC Parent often includes websites that may be helpful to our readers. We verify each site prior to publication. However, content changes frequently. We encourage you to use caution and discretion when visiting a website.

Postmaster, please send changes to KC Parent, 8691 W. 96th St, Ste 1B, Overland Park, KS 66212.

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kcparent.com march 2016

FACT:

Our proprietary Balanced Learning® curriculum emphasizes creative, social, emotional, physical, cognitive and character development.

PRIMROSE WAY:

That’s pretty much everything, including the kitchen sink.

NEW SCHOOL NEAR OLATHE NWHS. Primrose School of North Olathe – NEW SCHOOL! 913.764.0018 | PrimroseNorthOlathe.com

Primrose School of Overland Park 913.400.2435 | PrimroseOverlandPark.com

Each Primrose school is a privately owned and operated franchise. Primrose Schools® and The Leader in Early Education and CareSM are registered trademarks and service marks of Primrose School Franchising Company. ©2015 Primrose School Franchising Company. All rights reserved. See primroseschools.com for additional information about our schools, curriculum, and programs.

NOW !

OPEN

LEGO, the LEGO logo and LEGOLAND are trademarks of the LEGO Group. ©2016 The LEGO Group.

THE LEGO® MOVIE © & ™ LEGO Group & Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved. (s16)

kcparent.com march 2016

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CRAFTCORNER

This is the world’s easiest play dough to put together, and the best part is that it glows in the dark!

Materials Needed: Conditioner Cornstarch Non-toxic glow-in-the-dark paint

threeingredient

glow-in-the-dark play dough

Step One: Mix together 1 cup conditioner and 2 cups cornstarch.

If the dough seems too sticky, add more cornstarch.

This is the world’s easiest play dough to put together, and the best part is that it glows in the dark! No cooking is involved— just mix the ingredients, and you are ready to play. Use a yummy scented conditioner to make your dough not only glow, but smell good too. Kids will love experiencing this play dough in the dark for a different kind of sensory experience!

Step Two: Dump in one small bottle of glow-in-the-dark paint and mix well into the dough.

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

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Step Three: Charge your dough by holding up to a lightbulb or flashlight before playing with it in the dark.

WOMENSHEALTH

Decreasing Risks for Seasonal Allergies

S

pring is in the air and, as tempting as it may be to get outside to enjoy the warmer weather or open your windows for the wonderful spring breeze, you may think twice if you suffer from spring allergies. If you experience seasonal allergies, you are not alone. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, some 35 million Americans are suffering right along with you.

Allergies are diseases of the immune system that cause an overreaction to certain substances called allergens. There are many different types of allergies, and outdoor allergies are commonly referred to as hay fever. Hay fever occurs when allergens such as pollen from trees, weeds or grass or mold spores are inhaled into the nose and lungs.

Much pollen is released in the early morning hours, from 5:00 to 10:00, and travels best on warm, dry, breezy days.

The body’s overreaction to the pollen causes many symptoms: • Itchy, watery eyes • Sneezing • Runny nose

W

• Post-nasal drip • Occasionally one may notice dark circles under the eyes or, if allergies are severe, wheezing.

Prevention

The American Association of Colleges of Nursing lists several preventative measures in their book Ask a Nurse: From Home Care to Hospitals: • Read product labels carefully to avoid substances you react to.

• Use an air conditioner or air purifier.

• Get rid of dust collectors such as carpet, throw pillows and drapes.

• Increase your dietary intake of essential fatty acids.

• Increase your dietary intake of vitamin C to at least 1,000 mg. daily.

• Keep windows/doors closed and avoid outdoor activity when pollen counts are high.

• Use a dehumidifier to reduce growth of dust mites, molds and fungi during summer months.

• Avoid hanging clothes, sheets or blankets outside to dry.

• Encase your mattress and pillows in plastic to reduce the amount of dust mite particles in the air.

• Avoid doing yard work, mowing or raking leaves.

• Change clothes and shower as soon as possible after outdoor activities to get rid of pollen.

If you find these tips helpful but you still continue to have symptoms of seasonal allergies, you may want to visit with your doctor or asthma/allergy specialist.

Melanie Yunger is a nurse practitioner and freelance writer who resides in the Kansas City area.

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

WEE

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kcparent.com march 2016

11

MEDIAMIX

friends, fantasy and secret identities

new friendships blossom in spring book collection

By McGeath Freeman

Bedtime Blastoff!

By Luke Reynolds Illustrated by Mike Yamada Best for: Ages 4-8 Do you have children who constantly try to delay bedtime? Or maybe they just love cars, trucks and other transportationrelated pretend. Either way, Bedtime Blastoff! offers fun for Dad and child. In this tale, Reynolds uses an economy of words—declaring each scenario—and Dad and his little one work their way to bedtime. From train conductor to bulldozer operator to astronaut, each bit of pretend takes a little more energy out of the little boy and moves him one step closer to sleep. Yamada translates his Disney animation skills into colorful digital illustrations with a somewhat retro feel.

Bedtime may never be the same for your rambunctious boys.

What’s good: Highly engaging for young, active boys who like to pretend.

What’s bad: The high energy pretending

could lead to difficulties with bedtime.

Lionheart

By Richard Collingridge

Secret Hero Society: Study Hall of Justice

Best for: Ages 4-8

By Derek Fridolfs Illustrated by Dustin Nguyen

With the feel of a Sendak story, Lionheart tackles things that go bump in the night. When Ricard hears a strange, scary noise, he runs from the sound. He knows something is following but he can’t seem to get away. He runs all the way to a magical jungle full of animals big and small. Along the way, he drops his beloved stuffed animal, Lionheart. When the monster gets close, Richard runs again, right into his fully grown and alive Lionheart. Together they roar so loudly that all the scary things are scared away.

Collingridge uses a dark palette of colors with a dreamlike touch to create a wonderfully illustrated bedtime story about facing one’s fears and the strength you can derive from friends— even if they’re stuffed.

What’s good: It’s always good to find bedtime books that help you face your fears.

What’s bad: The mystery surrounding the night monster could add to a younger child’s fears.

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Best for: Ages 7-10 Imagine what it would be like if Bruce Wayne, Clark Kent and Diana Prince all went to a private school together in Gotham as young students. That’s what this graphic novel does. Batman, Superman and Wonder Woman all feel like outsiders at Ducard Academy, where the faculty encourages and rewards villainous behavior. The three young heroes band together to form a detective agency to see what the faculty is plotting and save the day—all before their 11:00 curfew.

This fun new take on these well-known heroes draws in old and new fans alike.

The tale is told through comics, journal entries and doodles for a fun, fast-paced adventure.

What’s good: A fun new take on wellknown characters.

What’s bad: Totally different than any existing backstories for these characters.

HEALTHYKIDS

Broken Bones 101

what to expect when your child has a broken bone

B

roken bones are a common childhood ailment and can occur at any age and in many different ways. While bones are very strong, under the right pressure, they will break. Broken bones can occur while jumping on a trampoline, competing in soccer or playing on a playground at school.

A break in a bone is called a fracture, and different types of fractures occur depending on the activity and force applied.

• Complete fracture: When the bone has broken into two pieces.

• Hairline fracture: A thin break into the bone.

• Single break: The bone is broken in one place.

• Comminuted fracture: The bone is broken into more than two pieces or crushed.

• Bowling fracture: When the bone

bends but does not break (only occurs in children).

• Open fracture: Bone breaks and sticks out of the skin.

• Greenstick: One part of the bone breaks and the other side bends. (KidsHealth.org)

Telling when a bone is broken is not always easy, especially depending on the age of the child or type of fracture. Oftentimes the site of the break will be swollen, and your child will guard that area. He may be unable or unwilling to move the injured area and have significant pain. If you suspect a broken bone, call your pediatrician or family doctor. The only definitive way to diagnose a break is by x-ray. Not every doctor’s office has an x-ray

machine in house, but they can refer you to the best place for care. If your child is bleeding from the site or you are able to see bone, call an ambulance to take you to the ER. In some cases, an orthopedic consultation and/or surgery may be necessary. For this reason, do not allow your child to eat or drink anything until a physician has looked at the injury and given the okay. Once the break has been set, it will be stabilized, most often with a cast. Generally, the cast will stay in place for 1-2 months.

Broken bones are one of the most common injuries in toddlers and young children. While breaks are serious and scary, young bones are more flexible and have thicker covering, which makes it easier for them to absorb shock and helps them heal more quickly than adult bones (HealthyChildren.org). The younger the child, the more quickly the bone heals.

Jessica Heine has three young children, and the only broken bone in the family has come from her husband.

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

kcparent.com march 2016

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The “D” Word

Is “diet” a four-letter word?

W

hat would you do if the doctor said during a checkup that your child is overweight?

With childhood obesity an epidemic in our nation, taking the doctor seriously and helping your child become healthier would be the right thing to do. Panicking and putting your child on a strict diet would not be the right move.

Dr. Brooke Sweeney, medical director, Center for Children’s Healthy Lifestyles and Nutrition at Children’s Mercy Hospital, says the word “diet” is a four-letter word for children and adults alike.

“A diet implies something you go on and then off. A healthy lifestyle is forever and for everyone,” Sweeney explains.

Adopting good habits at a young age sets children on the right path to becoming healthy adults. Focusing on nutrition and fitness and not solely on the number on the scale should be the goal of the entire family, Sweeney says.

A team of Kansas City agencies, including Children’s Mercy, launched a health initiative called 12345 Fit-Tastic! to promote healthy lifestyles. The numbers in the name focus on five habits people should incorporate into their lives each day: 1 hour of physical activity 2 hours maximum screen time (no screen time for children under 2) 3 servings of low-fat milk or other dairy products 4 servings of water 5 servings of fruits and vegetables

Sweeney stresses the importance of incorporating small changes that add up to big results. For example, not giving your child calorieladen beverages, including juices and sodas, is one simple way to lower BMI and encourage healthy living. Dividing exercise into smaller bursts of activity throughout the day rather than an hour-long sweat session is another way for a child to achieve his fitness goals.

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What if you think your child’s weight is fine, but she is unhappy with it? Sweeney says to discuss this with your doctor, who will plot your child’s Body Mass Index (BMI) and determine whether or not she is overweight.

Getting to the underlying cause of why your child is unhappy with her weight is also in order, according to Sweeney. Is she being bullied at school? Talk to her and find out whether something is going on, and have a low threshold for tolerating bullying. Low self-esteem and the risk of your child’s developing an eating disorder could be at stake if she is unhappy with her weight, particularly if there is bullying involved. Seek help for your adolescent right away if you are at all concerned about these serious issues.

Sweeney encourages parents to talk to their kids about being healthy and not about losing weight or dieting. Here are a few ways parents can help their child—and the entire family—lead a healthy lifestyle:

Make nutritious foods easily accessible.

By stocking your kitchen with plenty of fruits, veggies, whole grains, low-fat dairy and lean proteins, you are encouraging your children to eat right. Steer clear of chips, sodas and sweets at the supermarket; keeping junk food out of the house is a simple, effective step in creating better eating habits. Keep chopped veggies in see-through containers in the fridge and a bowl of fruit on the counter for easy access.

Eat on a regular schedule.

Three balanced meals and a couple of healthy snacks each day provide energy and keep kids from feeling deprived. Children who know when their next meal or snack is going to be are less likely to sneak food or overeat.

Be a good role model.

If you tell your child to eat her grilled chicken and veggies but you’re munching on a burger and fries, you’re sending the wrong message. Turn healthy choices into a family affair by cooking meals together and finding physical activities to do as a family.

Don’t make any food “forbidden.”

Children will be more likely to sneak junk food and overeat if they know they can never have certain foods. Allow small portions of favorite treats occasionally; this will teach children how to eat in moderation.

Avoid fad diets and quick weight loss plans.

There’s that “d” word again. Any plan that leaves out or severely limits a food group or promises rapid weight loss should be avoided by anyone, especially children. Our bodies require a balanced diet that includes each food group. Children are still growing and should not be on a diet that severely restricts calories or nutrients.

Find fun physical activities.

We all know that exercise is good for us, but how many times have you dreaded doing another round on the treadmill? Just like adults, children crave variety and some fun with their fitness.

Tune in to your child’s interests and find activities he enjoys. If organized sports are not his thing, signing him up for soccer might not be very fun for him. Does he enjoy water? Visit an indoor pool and make a game out of swimming laps. Does he like the outdoors and running? Gather family or friends for a game of tag. You also can check out kids’ classes at a local community center or put on some dance music in your living room. Mix it up and, most of all, have fun!

Tisha Foley lives in Belton with her husband and two children.

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

For ideas on how your family can get active for cheap (or FREE) visit KCParent.com.

Check out these websites for healthy recipes, fitness challenges, online tools and informative articles for the whole family: FitTastic.org PBSKids.org/healthykids Kids.USA.gov HealthyChildren.org EatRight.org LetsMove.gov Fitness.gov ChooseMyPlate.gov

kcparent.com march 2016

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Trampoline Park is an attractive solution to a common problem: needing one place to entertain kids of every age.

Just a few blocks from Prairiefire and Corbin Park, our facility is the perfect destination for family entertainment enjoyment. Along with regular weekly events, fitness classes and special occasion rentals, our facility caters to birthday parties for kids of all ages. If your group is up for a little sweat and a lot of bounce, we are the place for you. Check out our attractions including our Urban Air Warrior Course and our threestory indoor playground to learn more about the generous helping of frenetic fun to be had today.

MOST FUN TEEN PARTY EVER! Breakout Kansas City is a brand new entertainment game in Downtown Kansas City’s River Market.

Your goal is simple: you have 60 minutes to breakout from one of our real life escape rooms by cracking codes, solving riddles, and more!

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party guide great gifts kids can give

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hether it’s your first foray into the world of school friend gift-giving or your 10th, the task can feel daunting. It’s hard enough to pick out the perfect present for your own kids, let alone one with whom you’re not very familiar.

Letting kids choose for their friends often results in frustration, because the item either is too expensive or not necessarily geared toward the intended recipient. When inspiration has evaporated and you’re left staring blankly into the toy aisle yet again, let this article be your guide. Here are the top five tried-and-true gifting ideas that are sure to win.

Think long-term. When searching for a gift, try to imagine how much use the child will get out of it. Is it something she’ll still love a year from now or discard after two weeks? Shawnee mom of two Megan Clark says, “We try to give gifts that grow with the child: musical instruments, imaginative play items and blocks for toddlers; Legos, art supplies and puzzles for preschool and elementary age.”

The WOW Factor!!

Have an unforgettable birthday party!

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Outdoor Cinema • Special Events 12120 State Line Rd., Suite 100, Leawood, KS 66209

913.424.9444

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kcparent.com march 2016

•

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Do your research. “If we’re shopping for a birthday for our children’s friend, we try to include them by asking them to think about their friend’s interests and favorites,” Clark says. “In that way, we’re trying to teach them to pick out a thoughtful gift, rather than just what the givers would like to receive themselves.” Olathe mom Kala Cadwell says, “We are fortunate that most of our friends are blessed with more than they need, so I try to buy things that the birthday boy or girl can use. For instance, if the girl does gymnastics, we will get her a new leotard. Our sporty friends may receive some fun soccer socks or a personalized water bottle.”

Gather your go-to’s. Rather than

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engage in a last-minute, pre-party rush for a present, put together a small stockpile of basics that are great for the age ranges you’re working with that year. Julia Willhite, mom of one, says, “Books, craft kits and board games are usually the go-to items.” Olathe mom of two Piper Organ says, “Books

Find the perfect entertainer, arcade, party supplies, inflatable, live animals and MORE!

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are usually appreciated, since they don’t add as much to the clutter.” Classic games like Scrabble and Clue are great gifts for elementary-aged children. They provide both entertainment and education through reasoning and deduction.

Gift experiences. This concept is becoming more popular as families have opted to clear clutter in favor of making memories. Bobbi Bratcher, mom of one, says, “I like giving gifts of experiences.

Instead of another toy that will fill the playroom, I like to give gift cards to trampoline parks, play centers, museums.

Places like Science City, Legoland, Sea Life and the Kansas City Zoo are great gift alternatives.”

Go green. Younger generations are spending less time outdoors and more time with technology. Why not gift a little nature?

Your child can assist you in putting together a nature kit, complete with guidebooks, a magnifying glass, bird calls and a canteen.

You could give a kids gardening starter kit with gloves, seed packets, a plant book, etc. These are simply a few suggestions. It’s possible to customize the kit in so many ways and for all ages. Your child may get so excited picking out and helping build the kits for her friends that she wants to spend more time outdoors as well.

Prior to picking out a present, sit down with your child and talk it through.

Let him know what the budget is, ask what the friend’s likes or dislikes are and provide some suggestions. Once you’ve pinned down an idea, putting it into action is an easy process. Gift-giving will be much less stressful for both you and your child. Ultimately, remember to have fun with it. Happy gifting!

Jennifer Bosse is a former KC mom who now lives in Charleston, SC, with her husband and two sons. She enjoys alternative gifting.

Have a WILD Birthday Party at the Zoo! oo.org for details Go to kansascityz rty today! pa and to book your

OPEN DAILY kansascityzoo.org 816.595.1234 The Kansas City Zoo, a private, non-profit organization is operated in agreement with the Kansas City, MO Board of Parks and Recreation Commissioners, partially funded by the Zoological District in Jackson and Clay Counties in MO, and is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. kcparent.com march 2016

19

Easter Baskets

A-Z

Card Game, GI Joe, Glitter, Glittery Bouncy Balls, Grape Lip Gloss, Garden Tools, Gel Pens, Gloves

H.

Hats, Hair Spray with Glitter, Hair accessories, Hershey’s Dark Chocolate Bars, Hot Wheels, Harmonica, Hexbugs, Headbands

A.

Art supplies (colored pencils, fun crayons like glitter crayons, paper, stickers, glitter glue, etc.), Apples, Apricots, Animal Crackers, Alphabet Stickers

B.

Balls, Beads, Bubbles, Bubble Bath, Bible, Books, Bouncy Balls, Beach Towels, Balloons (water balloons, punching balloons, etc.), Binoculars, Bird Feeder Kit, Banana Bread

C.

Cupcake wrappers/Cake Mix/ Icing/ Sprinkles (to bake together), Chocolate, Certificates & cards (gift), Crayons, Chapstick, Cars, Candy, Crayola Color Wonders , Carrots, Coloring Book, Cereal (small boxes), Comic Books, Craft Kits, Computer Games

D.

Deck of cards (any card game), Dolls/Doll Accessories/Doll Clothes, Duck (stuffed animal), Dog (stuffed animal), DVDs, Dress-Up Clothes/ Accessories, Dominoes, Doughnuts, Dollars

E.

Eggs filled with goodies, Earrings, Elmo Figurine, Etch A Sketch (mini)

F.

Flip Flops, Foam Stickers, Frisbee, Furry Friends, Flashlight, Finger Paints, Fancy Nancy Card Game, Farm Toys, Face Paint, Flash Cards, Fruit, Feather Boas, Fishing Pole/Gear

G. 20

Goggles, Gum, Games, Go Fish

kcparent.com march 2016

I.

Ice Cream Soda flavored Jelly Bellies, Iced Sugar Cookies (in Easter shapes), I Spy Books, Ice Cream Gift Cards

J.

Jellies, Jacks, Jump Rope, Jenga, Jigsaw Puzzles, Jewelry, Journal, Jump Drive, Jumping Jax Gift Certificate

K.

Kite, Kitten, Kool-Aid, Kazoo, Kaleidoscope, Key Chain, Klutz Books

L.

Legos, Littlest Pet Shop Toys, Lip Smackers, Little People, Life Savers, LaLaLoopsy Doll, Lemon Drops

M.

Matchbox Cars, My Little Ponies, Marzipan Bunnies, Marshmallows, Money, Marbles, Movie Tickets, Markers, Music, Magazine, Monster Trucks, Makeup, Mr. Potato Head, Mad Libs

N.

Nail Polish, Nickels, Necklace, Nuts, Nerds Candy, Noodles (Pool toys), Narnia movies or books

O.

Ostrich Eggs, Oreos, Optimus

Prime

P.

Pez Dispensers, Peeps, Pencils, Polly Pockets, Play Dough, Purse, Pillow, Pillow Pets, Plant Seeds, Playmobile Toys, Puppets, Pinwheels, Pajamas, Popcorn, Perfume, Poster, Paper Dolls

Q.

Quarters, Quik Trip Gift Cards (for

teens), Quality Time (coupon for Date with Parents)

R.

Rabbits (chocolate, stuffed), Ribbons, Race Car, Rice Krispy Treats, Rain Boots, Raisins

S.

Shirts, Shorts, Silly Putty, Stickers, Snickers, Slinky, Stamps, Socks, Silly String, Scented Soaps, Sandals, Swimsuit, Sidewalk Chalk, Super Hero Action Figures, Sudoku Book, Sandbox Toys, Sunglasses, Science Kits, Shrinky Dinks, Sun Catchers, Stationery, Scratch & Sketch Books, Scrapbook Supplies

T.

Toothbrush (for fun buy electric or character), Trading Cards, Top, Tub Toys, Transformers, Travel Games, Twisty Straws, Tea Party Set, Trail Mix, Tickets (to a sporting event, movie, concert, show)

U.

Umbrella (fun kid umbrella), Underwear, Uno

V.

Video Games, Veggie Tales, View Master (and View Master slides), Violet Tulips

W.

Water toy, Watch, Wand, Windmill Sugar Cookies, Wallet, Word Search Book, Windsocks, Water Bottle

X.

Xylophone, Xbox Game, X-ray Vision Goggles

Y. Z.

Yo-Yo, Yogurt Bites

Zoo Tickets, Zingo Game, Zebra (and other toy animals)

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Special Advertising Section

Horse Camps. Camps will fill up fast! See display ad on pg. 34. www.CampWood.org

Ceramic Cafe Interactive Education Guide available at KCParent.com

KC Parent’s

Camp Guide

Ceramic Cafe’s summer program provides instruction in a variety of ceramic art techniques including hand building with clay, ceramic painting and glazing techniques and also glass fusing. Fun themes change every camp session, so kids can sign up for their favorite or enroll more than once. Camp sessions are divided by age groups. Creative Kids is for ages 5-7, Aspiring Artists is for ages 8 and up. One day Workshops are also offered throughout the summer. Visit our website at www.

CeramicCafeKC.com for add’l info and registration form. See display ad on pg. 32.

Christian Youth Theater Accelerated Schools

Camp Shakespeare

Accelerated Schools of Overland Park offers two summer programs from June 13 through July 29. High School students can earn credit for courses such as math, science, English, Spanish and social studies. Students entering 4 to 8 grade can attend the Academics & Arts Summer Camp, focusing on individualized academic tutoring as well as creative expression. Call 913.341.6666 for further information. See display ad on pg. 33. www.AcceleratedAchoolsOP.org

Camp Shakespeare is a unique summer arts experience that your kids will never forget! Students will improve their understanding of literature and renaissance times and CREATE their own version of a Shakespearean play. Acting, visual art, dance, and stage combat all come together in this delightful camp, taught by theatre professionals in a neighborhood near you! Available for ages 5 -18. Camp dates vary per location. One, two and three week camps available, June -August. Costs between $125 - $415. Locations: Brookside, Overland Park, Lee’s Summit, South Kansas City, Kansas City, Kansas. See display ad on pg. 32. www.KCShakes.org.

Animal Camp-Cub Creek Science Camp Imagine spending a week feeding lemurs, walking llamas, grooming miniature horses, and playing with puppies and parrots! Choose from over 100 activities, sleep comfortably in spacious, airconditioned cabins, enjoy a variety of delicious meals, and learn from some of the friendliest and fun staff around! www.

MoScienceCamp.com. If you’re looking for more adventure, check out our teen travel and adventure program on the island of Jamaica! AnimalCampJamaica.com. See display ad on pg. 37. Ask for free brochure!

573.458.2125.

22

kcparent.com march 2016

ACT. SING. DANCE. LIVE! CYT Kansas City offers summer theatre camps across the KC metro area that are out of this world!

Half-day camps (ages 4-5 and 5-7) and fullday camps (ages 7-12) include “Disney from the Inside Out” and “Muppet Mayhem!”

Xtreme camps (ages 10-15) include “Star Wars,” “Sherlock,” “Hunger Games,” “Supernatural” and “Camp Willy: Much Ado About Nothing” (ages 12-18). Overnight camps include “Godspell Jr” (ages 12-14) and “Anything Goes” (ages 14-19), with 4 full-length performances July 22-24 at the Bell Center at MNU. Visit www.CYTKC.org or call 913.681.3318 for all the details! See display ad on pg. 29.

Cosmosphere Camp Wood YMCA From trail rides through the prairie to campouts under the stars, Camp Wood YMCA offers your child the classic summer camp experience. Trusted by Kansas City families for 100 years, we are the only ACAaccredited residential Y Camp in the state of Kansas. Our one-week Traditional Camps include archery, canoeing, horseback riding and more. In addition, we offer Specialty Camps for Trail Biking, Skateboarding, Paintball, Leadership and a selection of

From second graders through high school seniors, Cosmosphere campers spread their wings, expand their minds, and have fun they won’t find anywhere else on Earth. Camps include Space 101501, Mars Academy, Forces of Flight, and Space Medicine. Building robots and rockets, SCUBA training like astronauts, interplanetary missions to solve a crisis, learning to fly, understanding the medical demands of long duration space travel…

continued on page 24

CAMPGUIDE those are just some of ways your child can spend the summer. See display ad on pg. 29. www.Cosmo.org

The Coterie The Coterie offers camps for kids entering grades K-12 at five sites: Liberty (Liberty CC), Lee’s Summit (MCC Longview), Overland Park (Miller-Marley), the Plaza (Pembroke Hill), and the Northland (Park Hill). Half-day and full-day classes include creative drama, acting and audition skills.

Performance Camps include Into the Woods Jr., Reckless Days with Robin Hood, Young Sherlock, and Dracula at Large. Visit www.TheCoterie.org. See display ad on pg. 37.

Crescendo Conservatory Crescendo Conservatory will host an exciting variety of dance camps and intensives for young performers. From Fairy Princess and Rockstar camps

to comprehensive intensives for preprofessionals, Crescendo Conservatory will provide artistic and technically challenging summer offerings in a positive, creative environment. Our international master faculty brings techniques and styles of dance ranging from classical ballet repertoire to contemporary dance and Fosse technique to commercial/street jazz. All camps and intensives will end with an informal presentation! See display ad on pg. 31. www.CrescendoConservatory.com

Culture House Spend your summer at The Culture House!

Our 2016 summer programs include dance, theater, music and art ... all taught by professionally trained adults. “Addams Family” (ages 13-19), “Disney’s High School Musical” (ages 9-13), “Disney’s Aristocats” (ages 6-9), Art Camps, Broadway Showtunes, Songs from Matilda, Fairytale

Ballet, Hip Hop, Minion Mania, A Frozen Adventure, Let’s Make a Movie & more!

PLUS our summer production of “Big Fish” (ages 8-adult) at the Kauffman Center!

Openings limited! See display ad on pg. 23. 913.393.3141. Enroll online: www.CultureHouse.com

The First Tee The First Tee of Greater Kansas City is a youth development sports organization teaching young people 7-17 positive values using the game of golf as a tool.

Our programs are offered: spring, summer and fall. Spring registration is open now!

Most programs are offered 1 day a week for 1 ½ hours, for 6 to 8 weeks. We offer programming at six different locations across the metro area. Email info@ thefirstteekc.org for more information. For a 15% coupon, see display ad on pg. 33.

continued on page 26

Weekly Camps for EVERY SCHEDULE EVERY AGE • EVERY BUDGET EVERY INTEREST AREA

Plus...

EXTENDED CARE AVAILABLE

Ma y3

Enroll Online

1 – August 5, 20

16

NOW! barstowschool.org/summer

24

kcparent.com march 2016

SUMMER

CAMPGUIDE

2016

Camps

iD Tech Camps

at KU in Overland Park

SUMMER FUN FOR KIDS OF ALL AGES. All camps will take place at KU Edwards Campus in Overland Park.

Physical Activity & Youth Fitness Camps

KU Department of Health, Sport and Exercise Sciences

Science, Technology, Engineering & Math Camps KU Center for STEM Learning

Science & Chinese Language Camp KU Confucius Institute

REGISTER NOW.

EdwardsCampus.KU.edu/SummerCamps

This summer, encourage the awesome in your child! At iD Tech summer programs, students ages 7-17 can learn to code, design video games, mod Minecraft, model 3D characters, engineer robots, and much more! iD Tech summer courses are inclusive of every skill level and learning style.

Tech-savvy instructors teach curriculum in small groups of just 8 students per instructor—guaranteed—so both beginners and advanced students can learn at the perfect pace. Camps held at University of Missouri - Kansas City. See display ad on pg. 35. IDTech.com

J Camp The Jewish Community Center provides day camp activities for boys and girls ages 2–13 years. Exciting activities include swimming, sports, drama, crafts, field trips and special events. Specialty camps: Sports, Theatre, Art, Dance, Lego and Triathlon Camp.

SUMMER CAMPS & CLASSES 2016 Full & Half Day Camps Extended Day Option Scholarships Musical Theatre Available

• Ballet • Visual Arts • Acting • Improv • Garage Band • Hip Hop • and so much more!

KCYA.org

5601 Wyandotte KCMO 816.531.4022 www.KCYA.org

26

kcparent.com march 2016

Youth don’t have to be Jewish or members to attend. Sessions are Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. from June 6 through August 5. Extended care available. Costs vary from $230-390 per week. See display ad on pg. 38. www.JcampKC.org.

Johnson County Park & Recreation District Come grow with us! From Outdoor Discovery to Just for Fun, we offer over 65 different and well-supervised camp programs conveniently located throughout Johnson County. Dedicated to providing activities that promote emotional, intellectual and physical health, our summer fun choices include nature and science, preschool enrichment, art, sports, computers, leadership development, and music, theatre and dance. The options include both indoor and outdoor programs, and full and partial day schedules are available. For details, call 913.831.3359 or

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

See display ad on pg. 27.

The KCYA Community School of the Arts The KCYA Community School of the Arts (CSA) offers children performing and visual arts classes, camps and private instruction on the campus of St. Teresa’s Academy.

Spring classes now forming. Our fabulous Spring Break Camps will be held March 14-18. Summer Camps begin in June.

Scholarships are available. 816.531.4022. See display ad on pg. 26. www.KCYA.org

JCPRD Summer Camps...

Come Grow with us!

KampOut Kanakuk KampOut! brings the fun of one of the largest Christian summer camps in the nation, Kanakuk, to your hometown.

Kanakuk professional staff leads this highenergy traveling day camp through five days of guided sports and activity times, Bible

continued on page 28

& Safari Day Campsthe Zoo! Summer Camps at For kids ages 4–15

Join us for Zoo-mazing fun and animal adventures on your days off from school and during the summer too!

Visit kansascityzoo.org/camp for more details!

OPEN DAILY | kansascityzoo.org | 816.595.1234

The Kansas City Zoo, a private, non-profit organization is operated in agreement with the Kansas City, MO Board of Parks and Recreation Commissioners, partially funded by the Zoological District in Jackson and Clay Counties in MO, and is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. kcparent.com march 2016

27

CAMPGUIDE study, worship and small-group time for children in kindergarten through 5th grade.

To learn more about your local KampOut! stop, visit: Kanakuk.com/kampout. See display ad on pg. 36.

Kanakuk Camps Kanakuk is a premier summer camp experience for boys and girls age 6–18 located in Branson and Lampe, Missouri.

Our 8 camps provide children with ageappropriate, fun, safe and professional outdoor youth camping experiences that grow them spiritually, physically, emotionally and socially. Kids have fun with friends participating in more than 70 activities, sports and amazing themed parties. Our full-time and summer staff are committed to our mission to develop dynamic Christian leaders. Learn more about customizing your child’s summer camp experience at www.

GoKanakuk.com. See display ad on pg. 25.

Kansas City Ballet Kansas City Ballet School Summer Programs include once-a-week classes and four-day ballet camps for children age 3-9.

Camp themes include Fairy Princesses and Frozen. Additional courses and workshops available for ages 8-18. Classes begin June 6th. Enroll today to guarantee your child’s spot. Two convenient locations: Downtown and Johnson County. See display ad on pg. 28. For more information visit www.KCBallet.org or call 816.931.2299.

Kansas City Zoo Make your summer a little wilder with Zoofari Adventures Summer Camp. Camp runs May 31 through August 12. Your animal enthusiasts will get the inside scoop about the Zoo’s creatures. A typical camp week includes exclusive zoo tours, animal encounters/shows, science experiments, games, and crafts. Topics vary each

54,179

unique visitors to the virtual camp guide in 2015

104,000

readers each issue of KC Parent Magazine

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

With these stats, it’s easy to see how KC Parent has camps covered!

continued on page 36

PLAN AHEAD WITH OUR SUMMER PROGRAMS FOR AGES 3-18 SUMMER PROGRAMS 2016 Classes are designed to provide your child with excellent ballet training and superior attention from our professional teachers, all while having fun. Classes begin June 6.

PROGRAMS INCLUDE: • Creative Movement ages 3-5

• Fairy Princess & Frozen Camps ages 3-5

28

Union Station

Johnson County 5359 W. 94th Terr.

Prairie Village, KS (95th & Nall)

Nall Ave.

5

Broadway

Downtown Bolender Center 500 W. Pershing Rd. Kansas City, MO

I-3

Photographer Brett Pruitt & East Market Studios

• 1-8 Week Ballet Classes & Camps ages 3-18

94th Terr.

W. 95th St.

Pershing Rd.

SPACE IS LIMITED. . .ENROLL TODAY! 816.931.2299 | kcballet.org/school for a complete list of summer courses

kcparent.com march 2016

913.681.3318

summer CAMPS Xtreme Camps

CYTKC.ORG TWO musical theatre camps available for both half & full-day ►HALF-DAY (ages 4-5 and 5-7) ►FULL-DAY (ages 7-12)

DISNEY

non-musical drama camps (ages 10-15)

from the

INSIDE OUT

M

~ Full Show! ~

STAR WARS SHERLOCK HUNGER GAMES SUPERNATURAL

HIGH SCHOOL OVERNIGHT

July 17-24 Performances July 22, 23 & 24 NEW ~ F

ull Show

and

UPPET AYHEM

(Shakespeare for ages 12-18)

LOCATIONS ACROSS THE METRO!

!

MIDDLE SCH

OOL OVE

July 25-28 RNIGHT Performances July 28

& 29

kcparent.com march 2016

29

CAMPGUIDE

beating the “end of camp”

blues

C

amp is an action-packed adventure. Each day brings new and exciting opportunities for growth and accomplishment. At the same time, strong bonds of friendship and community are developing. It truly is a life-changing experience. And when the embers of the last campfire have cooled, and campers make their way home, children often experience a mild case of the “end of camp blues.”

The blues are not uncommon, causing some children to be tired, moody, quieter than usual or even irritable or grumpy. The American Camp Association (ACA) offers the following tips for families to help ease the transition from camp to home:

• Help kids relax and adjust to the slower pace of noncamp life. Suggest they take a warm shower and get plenty of rest.

Plan to have an “old favorite” for dinner.

• Encourage reconnecting with friends from home.

Volunteer to set up play dates and get-togethers to help reestablish a sense of belonging with friends they haven’t seen in a long time.

Summer Camp 201 6 Today!

Enroll

Ages 6-12

Create. Explore. Experiment.

Become a Member & SAVE!

June 6– August 12

Join us as we spark interest in STEAM learning through interactive, challenging and FUN activities at Science City Summer Camp!

ScienceCity.com/SummerCamp

30

kcparent.com march 2016

Space is Limited!

• Allow your child to write, email or call camp friends. Many camps encourage campers to exchange email and IM addresses with one another. Parents should oversee their child’s online activities and make sure all camp policies are being followed.

• Be open and available to talk about camp. Allow your children to reflect on their friends, their favorite moment at camp and what they miss most about camp.

Sharing experiences and feelings will help them feel connected to you and will make the transition easier.

• Organize a small reunion. Getting together with local camp friends can help reassure your child that though his or her friends are out of sight, they are not out of mind!

If your child gets the blues, remember that he misses camp because he had fun — and he enjoyed taking healthy risks in a safe and nurturing environment. Plus, missing camp “family” is normal too—the same way he missed his home family at camp.

By being supportive and understanding, families can ease the sadness and help campers adjust to life at home. Families also can help campers remember that next summer is not that far away.

Fairy Princess or Rockstar?

Whether you prefer twirling in tutus through a magical forest or dancing under a mirror ball to your favorite songs... Crescendo Conservatory has a Dance Camp for you this summer!

Fairy Princess Camp Ages 3-7

June 20-24, 2016 9:30 am - noon $125

Rockstar Camp Ages 4-7

July 18-22, 2016 9:30 am - noon $125

Conveniently located at Corbin Park (135th & Metcalf)

Visit our website for class details.

www.crescendoconservatory.com

About ACA The American Camp Association (ACA) is a national organization.

With 10,000 members, it is actively working with more than 2,700 camps. ACA is committed to collaborating with those who believe in quality camp and outdoor experiences for children, youth and adults. ACA provides advocacy and evidencebased education, as well as professional development, and is the only national accrediting body for the organized camp experience. For more information, visit ACAcamps.org. kcparent.com march 2016

31

CAMPGUIDE

choosing the right day camp for your child

d

ay camps come in all shapes and sizes, appealing to a range of interests and ages. Here’s how to find a camp that invests in your youngster by creating an unforgettable experience where he’ll meet new friends, gain self-confidence and learn new skills— all while giving you peace of mind

Begin with basics. First determine your schedule needs. Some camps are only a few hours a day, while others are structured to easily accommodate a working parent’s schedule. Figure out whether you’ll need to arrange before or after care.

From there, seek a camp with “caring staff, fun programs and a dedication to the health and safety of the campers,” says D.D. Gass, director of camps and school-

age services, Jewish Community Center of Greater Kansas City.

Match the camp with your child’s interests. From computer coding to robotics and sports, day camps offer kids opportunities to try all kinds of new activities. If your child isn’t interested in a camp that specializes in one activity, choose a more traditional camp that offers a wide range of activities throughout the session.

“Make sure there’s a healthy balance between structure and choice,” says Jim Spearin, senior vice president of youth development for the YMCA.

Consider the culture. Ask for referrals from trusted family and friends. “Choose a camp that welcomes parents as partners

SHAKESPEARE SUMMER CAMPS

Get creative at the Nerman Museum!

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

summer is a great time to create!

Tuesdays-Fridays, June 7-July 29 10 a.m.-noon or 2-4 p.m.

Pre-registration is required.

913-469-2323 • www.jccc.edu/youth

Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art Johnson County Community College

32

kcparent.com march 2016

Now enrolling Summer Camp Ages 5 to 7 8 and up

A CT I N G S TA G E C O M B AT

June & July Ages:

A great place to create!

Pottery painting Glass fusing Birthday parties “Family day” every Sunday

DANCE & sC Rt aA gF Te 5 - 18

9425 Mission Rd • 913-383-0222

Heart of America SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL

www.ceramiccafekc.com

Camp Shakespeare is a fun and unique summer arts experience your kids will never forget! Taught by theatre professionals in a neighborhood near you.

www.KCSHAKES.org

816-531-7728

KCParent-2016_CampShakespeare_Ad.indd 1

2/9/16 10:52 AM

As a parent you know your child best and what program would be best for him.

Trust your instincts. in their experience,” Spearin says. “Parents should always feel welcome to come visit during camp. There should be planned activities for both parent and camper to enjoy together, such as special events or campouts.”

experience to ensure that appropriate, engaging and enriching activities are offered,” says Katrina Ball, childcare resource and referral director for the Family Conservancy.

Seek qualified, organized staff.

expo or camp fair to find out what options exist in the area. Some organizations feature their own camp fairs and mini-camps during the spring for families to try.

“As a parent you know your child best and what program would be best for him.

Trust your instincts,” Ball says.

Camp employees should be licensed, certified and trained in sexual/child abuse prevention, first aid and CPR. Find out how camp leaders are supervised and how they plan for emergencies, including natural disasters, intruders and other threats. Also consider the child-to-staff ratio. Will your child feel lost in a group that’s too big, even if it meets state criteria?

“It’s vitally important for staff to have child development knowledge and

Try it before you buy. Attend a camp

Calm butterflies. Many youngsters have a hard time adjusting to new situations and people and may feel scared or intimidated.

Include them in the process of choosing a camp. Discuss the schedule of activities and what a typical day will look like.

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

If your child is facing challenges in school,We specialize EXCITING CLASSES “excelling” may seem outinofworking reach. with students FOR ALL STUDENTS We specialize in working with students who don’t always “fit into AGES 2 - 18 who don’t always “fit into thebox.” box.” the For more than will 30 years, Summer programs be heldconcerned parents from June 13 until 29. have turned to theJulyAccelerated Schools for High School students in grades individualized learning programs that help 9-12 can complete up to students of all academic levels with unique 1 full credit in subjects including educational math, science,needs social overcome studies, challenges and excel English,academically.

Spanish and art.

All courses accredited the State4of- Kansas • FullareDay School by- Grades 12 and AdvancED. Middle school students, grades 4-8, can Schooland Tutoring - Grades 1-12 attend•theAfter Academics Arts Camp.

They can Be a part of the spend•2.5Accredited hours in individualized tutoring•and thenStudent-Teacher ratio Low Summer at Pembroke Hill cast participate in 1.5Report hours Cards of creative expression.

• Daily • Transportation Available and take on such roles as artist, All programs are from 9 am until 1 pm, Monday • Effective Reward System • Free Academic Testingengineer, scientist, or chef! through Friday. Individualized tutoring is also available.

The Accelerated Schools of Overland Park The Accelerated Schools Overland 10713 BarkleyofSt., OverlandPark Park, KS

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

ENROLL ONLINE TODAY AT w.pembrokehi.org

“Children can help pack their lunches (if needed) and pack their backpacks with the items they’ll need for camp. This helps them know what they have in their backpacks and know what they will need to bring home,” Gass says.

Find out whether one of your child’s friends would like to attend the camp with him. Attending orientations, visiting the camp site and meeting the staff prior to the beginning of camp also can help reduce any pre-camp jitters.

Freelance journalist, Christa Melnyk Hines and her husband are the parents of two happy day campers. Christa’s latest book is Happy, Healthy & Hyperconnected: Raise a Thoughtful Communicator in a Digital World.

Ages 7-17

Registration is open 15% off with code: KCP16

www.thefirstteekc.org 913-648-7177 info@thefirstteekc.org kcparent.com march 2016

33

7questions to ask when looking for overnight camp

summer camp?

Already? It’ll be here before you know it, and believe it or not, it’s not too soon to begin researching what overnight camp(s) your child may want to participate in this year. It’s not as easy as just signing up, though. At least, it shouldn’t be. As a parent, you’ll want to make sure your child will be happy and well cared for in someone else’s charge. In order for this to happen, be sure to do your research ahead of time and ask questions before you hand over your money—or child. Here are some

important things to ask to ensure you find the perfect camp.

1

is my child ready for overnight camp?

How does your child do at sleepovers with friends? Is he excited about the idea of going away? If your child has reasonable social skills and relates well with others, she will do well at camp. Once you’re sure your child is ready, look at the basic requirements.

Some camps are open to all kids, while others require certain skills or have other admissions criteria. Math, science and

technology camps, in particular, may have prerequisites.

2

how long has the camp been in operation and what licenses does it have?

Be aware that state licensing requirements vary widely, and in many cases are minimal. Great news if the camp is accredited by the American Camp Association, but remember that some programs are too new or small to get ACA accreditation. And if the camp isn’t the right match for your child’s personality, even an accredited one can be a thumbs-down.

Space Limited!

There’s no place like Camp Wood YMCA.

AGES 6-12

Trail rides through the Flint Hills.

Campouts under the prairie sky.

Friendships that last a lifetime.

Trusted by Kansas City families for 100 years, Camp Wood YMCA is the only ACA-accredited residential Y camp in Kansas. Explore our popular traditional and specialty camps for children ages 5-17 at www.campwood.org. Camps are filling up fast. Register now!

Join us for a free Open House and Centennial Celebration on Saturday, May 7, 2016. Tour our brand new cabins, visit with staff, and sample our most popular camp activities.

Register a new camper by April 15, 2016, and get a $25 Gift Certificate to the Camp Store!

Call (620) 273-8641 for details.

CampWood-YMCA_ThirdPgAd_2-12.indd march 2016 34

kcparent.com

1

Rain-Proof, Heat-Proof Summertime Fun! GLASS FUSION • CANVAS CERAMICS • CLAY Camp Wood YMCA 1101 Camp Wood Road Elmdale, Kansas 66850 (620) 273-8641 www.campwood.org 2/12/16 9:48 AM

Mix & match sessions to fit YOUR summer schedule!!

KCP

paintglazeandfire.net 127th & Metcalf, OPKS • 913-661-CLAY

3

CAMPGUIDE What is the camp philosophy?

What kind of experience do you want your child to have? Will your child get to work in a group, collaborate with other kids and/ or learn how to work with a team? Find out how much flexibility the children will have in making their own schedules, how many activities are available and how much unstructured social time there will be. Only you know what your child will need.

4

What are the qualifications of the director and staff and the ratio of staff to children?

campers who are 4 and 5 years old, to 1:12 for day campers ages 15 to 17.

5

What are their safety procedures?

Make sure the camp does background checks on all employees, has EMTs nearby, staff trained in CPR and first aid and lifeguards if there will be swimming. If transportation is involved, ask about the training and licensing of drivers, how often vehicles are inspected, etc.

Some camps employ high school or college students, while others require college degrees and more experience. Both are fine, but make sure the staff is engaged and interested in interacting with the kids. As for the director, it’s important to know how long that person has been directing the camp and what his or her background is.

The leader-to-child ratio varies depending on the type of camp. ACA accreditation requirements range from 1:5 for overnight

6

What is their approach to conflicts that may arise?

7

What do others say about the camp?

Too much unstructured time can sometimes lead to conflicts between campers. Ask the camp director directly how they deal with situations like this, and make sure you’re comfortable with it.

Learn more about the reputation of the camp by checking these three things: its return rate, accreditation status and references. If it’s a good camp, people come back. Ask the director for references. Check out the camp website and online reviews, and you may even visit the physical site.

Happy camping!

Gina Klein is a homeschool mom and author who resides with her two daughters and husband in Kansas City.

Make Awesome memories | games | friends | apps | models | movies Ages 6-18 Co-ed and all-girls summer programs

Program apps, mod Minecraft, engineer robots, and more

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Only 8 students per instructor for personalized learning

www.iDTech.com/KansasCity

1-844-788-1858 kcparent.com march 2016

35

CAMPGUIDE week. Half day camps are available for ages 4-5, full day for ages 5-15. COST: 1/2 Day: $110, Full Day: $250, Aftercare (3:30pm-5:30pm): $15. 10% discount for FOTZ. See display ad on pg. 27. www.KansasCityZoo.org/education

KU Edwards Campus

BOYS AND GIRLS ELEMENTARY AGE

Are your children sports-minded? Do they yearn to speak another language? Have they dreamed of working at Google? The KU Edwards Campus is hosting a variety of summer camps for children who are interested in areas such as sports, science, engineering, math, technology and Chinese language and culture. All camps will take place at the Edwards Campus in Overland Park. Learn more about our camp offerings at EdwardsCampus.KU.edu/SummerCamps.

See display ad on pg. 26.

LIFE CHANGING FUN! EXPERIENCE JESUS THROUGH BIBLE STUDY AND WORSHIP SERVANT-HEARTED PROFESSIONAL KANAKUK STAFF A GLIMPSE INTO THE KANAKUK OVERNIGHT EXPERIENCE

FOR MORE INFORMATION WWW.COMETOKAMP.COM

UPWARD STARS BASKETBALL & IMPACT SOCCER CLUB Travel Teams, Developmental Programs & Camps Featuring the 360 Progression—The development of the total athlete mentally, athletically, spiritually and socially applied intentionally through all Upward Stars Programs.

March 2016 Camps, developmental programs and tryouts To Play with Purpose means you make smart decisions, improve in your physical development, discover your life’s purpose and put others needs before your own.

Experienced Coaches guide players through three stages of athletic growth: game discovery, skill development and peak performance while using the teachings of Christ to foster positive sportsmanship and character.

Upward Stars is a national, trusted youth sports organization with 19 years of experience and programs in 47 states and 72 countries.

IMPaCT SoCCEr ClUb Coming Fall 2016 Tryouts June 2016 For information contact: THOR GARLICK tgarlick@upwardstars.org

36

kcparent.com march 2016

It’s more than just a game, become more than just an athlete— Play with Purpose. www.upwardstarskansascity.org

Maranatha Christian Academy Eagle’s Camp Soaring A summer of Olympic proportions! Fun and engaging care for the whole child!

This summer we will explore past and present Summer Olympic games in both hands-on and classroom environments.

Adventures will include weekly off campus excursions and swim days. Enjoy 11 weeks of summer excitement, May 23-August 5, 2016. Call today 913.631.9286 or visit www.MCA-Eagles.org/campsoaring for more information! See display ad on pg. 39.

Nerman Museum Early Explorations classes (ages 5-7) and Contemporary Creations classes (ages 8-11) are interactive art learning experiences.

Students learn directly from JCCC’s diverse permanent collection and temporary exhibitions in the Nerman Museum. After exploring selected works of art, students create original works of art in the studio classroom. Classes are offered Tues.-Fri., June 7-July 29, with individual sessions from 10AM-noon or 2PM-4PM. Register at www.JCCC.edu/youth or call 913.469.2323.

See display ad on pg. 32.

Paint, Glaze & Fire Ceramics & Coffee House Camp ARTRAGEOUS! Paint Glaze & Fire Ceramics & Coffee House is offering summer camp for its 19th season! Your child will learn new techniques and have fun creating art in our multi-medium camps (ceramics, clay, canvas & glass fusion). Class size is limited - sign up early! Check it out online and find more information as well as a registration form at www.PaintGlazeAndFire.net. For more information on these and many other fun and creative programs, visit the website. See display ad on pg. 34. 913.661.CLAY (2529).

The CoTerie ACTs theatre school

GRADES K-12 ACTING CLASSES AT LOCATIONS

ALL OvER KANSAS CITy

SPRING & SUMMER SESSIONS

NoW eNrollING sPriNG sessioN Grades K-1st Grades 2nd-4th Grades 4th-6th Grades 5th-7th, 8th-12th Ages 3-5

starting in March Rumble in the Jungle Legends and Mythmakers Outta Your Head Audition Lab Puppies and Kittens (Midtown location only)

Pembroke Hill

sUMMer sessioN

Lights! Camera! Action! Be a part of the Summer at Pembroke Hill cast and take on such roles as artist, engineer, scientist, or chef! Designed to accommodate your family’s busy schedule, our program offers flexibility by allowing you to enroll in any of the weeks you choose. Open to the community, students ages 2-18 are able to participate in our comprehensive summer camp. See display ad on pg. 33. Enroll online at www.PembrokeHill.org.

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

REGISTRATION & CLASS DESCRIPTIONS

thecoterie.org 816.474.4241

PERfoRmAncE cAmPS: Grades 5th-8th Grades 5th-10th Grades 5th-10th Grades 9th-12th

starting in June

Reckless Days with Robin Hood Young Sherlock Into the Woods Jr. Dracula at Large

Quest June 6th-10th. Scuba Diving, Color Wars, Laser Tag, Roller Skating, Dunk Tanks, Bandanna Hunts and Water Parks are just some of activities that you could experience at QUEST. Quest is summer day camp for students entering 6th-9th grade. Registration is only $40 and covers all activities and snacks. Registration fills up quickly. Check out www.VineyardOP.org/ quest for more information and to reserve your spot today. See display ad on pg. 26.

Science City Science City Summer Camp 2016 provides a fun, hands-on environment to explore exciting STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and math) topics. Campers

continued on page 38 kcparent.com march 2016

37

CAMPGUIDE

J Camp at the Jewish Community Center

June 6 - August 5

Camp

Open to all, ages 2 - 13

10 Traditional + Specialty Day Camps all at one convenient location (115th & Nall)

Extended hours available

Now Enrolling!

JCampKC.org

camp guide 54,179

+

104,000

readers each issue of KC Parent Magazine

Summer at Barstow Summer at Barstow offers a unique and spectacular camp experience for children ages 3-14 in Academics, Sports, Arts and Enrichment. There are more than 400 programs in the visual and performing arts, science, technology and more! Summer at Barstow 2016 runs May 31 through August 5 with extended care available to all campers. Catalog available online now at www.BarstowSchool.org/summer.

Contact summer@barstowschool.org or 816.277.0445 for information or to request a catalog. Enrollment now! Join us at Summer at Barstow and create smiles to last a lifetime! See display ad pg. 24.

Sylvan Learning

{by the numbers}

unique visitors to the virtual camp guide in 2015

ages 6-12 engage in life science, physical science, art and innovation each week!

Space is limited! Camps run June 6-Aug 12, Monday through Friday, 9:00-4:00.

FREE early and late care available. $180/ week for Union Station members, $200/ non-members. For more information, email Summer@UnionStation.org or call 816.460.2226. See display ad on pg. 30.

=

A unique web + print package that increases exposure and leverages multimedia platforms!

In addition to full range of academic tutoring, Sylvan Learning offers several camps this summer. Elementary students can design video games and create a moving robot in one of our STEM camps, or boost their love of math with Math Edge!

For writers – budding or struggling - our Summer Writing Program is just the ticket for students in grades 3 – 12. And what middle or high school student doesn’t need a study skills refresher? Our Study Skills Boot Camp will help your kids move into the next school year confident and prepared!

See display ad on pg. 39. 913-681-1141

VCamp

913.782.3235 to spread the word about your camp!

38

kcparent.com march 2016

.com

Call

June 20-24. Looking for a low-cost, funpacked, summer day camp for your kids?

At Vcamp, kids will explore what it means to follow Jesus, the Light of the World. Vcamp is for kids who have completed kindergarten to fourth grade and runs from 10:00 am to 4:30 pm daily.

Students bring a sack lunch each day. $40 for the week includes snacks, supplies, and wrap-around care is available at no additional charge. Register at www.VineyardOP.org/vcamp by June 1. See display ad on pg. 31.

YMCA Is your child ready to have their best summer ever? Y Summer Day Camps are full of learning, adventure, active play and friendship! Traditional camps offer exciting themes weekly. Specialty camps include outdoor, art, sports, engineering and community service. And our Adventure Camp keeps teens excited and engaged throughout the summer.

Locations include Blue Valley, Center, Olathe, Platte County, Shawnee Mission and Spring Hill School Districts; Camp Naish; North Kansas City; and Riverside.

Ages 3-18. Learn more and register at www.YMCASummerFun.org. See display ad on pg. 76.

Overland Park 913.681.1141

Shawnee

913.543.6085

Lawrence

Prairie Village

785.842.6284

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summer fun +

enrichment

Upward Stars Basketball Upward Stars Basketball is bringing the focus of youth sports back to the athlete. Experienced coaches use the 360 Progression to develop the total athlete mentally, athletically, spiritually, and socially, while using the teachings of Christ to foster positive sportsmanship and character. Also introducing Impact Soccer Club coming Fall 2016 with tryouts in June 2016. It’s more than just a game - Play with Purpose and become more than just an athlete. Register at www.UpwardStarsKansasCity.org.

See display ad on pg. 36.

EAGLE’S

Soaring 16 0 2

of

olympic proportion

May 23 - August 5, 2016

Register Today!

Visit our website for a complete camp activities list.

www.mca-eagles.org/campsoaring kcparent.com march 2016

39

r e p u s ! s r e v o p slee

s

pecial occasions like birthdays are the perfect excuse to have a sleepover. A few games, light party favors—and the kids will be in one room all night, so no need to panic, right?

Right??? Wrong! Well to be fair, you should never panic. Sleepovers can be awesome if they are planned effectively. Remember these helpful hints and you’ll be fine.

how do you know your child is ready?

You know your child better than anyone else. What are her fears? What helps him rest easy at night, and what keeps him up?

You determine what age is best for inviting a few friends over for the night, based on when your child can handle it. Parents, on average, wait until their children are at or over the age of 8. Youngsters are usually more comfortable away from their parents at this age. Children also play well with others at this age, meaning more sharing and less crying.

follow the “rule of palm.”

No more than one handful of children.

If you can’t count the kids on one hand (one palm), count on needing more help!

Children are fast and tricky. When you have the upper hand, you will always be in control, but when they have the upper hand, things just can get out of control. So for sleepovers, think within reason and never overwhelm yourself with more children than you can handle.

have instructions.

If you figure you and your child are both ready for a sleepover, make sure everyone you invite to the sleepover is ready too.

40

kcparent.com march 2016

This means making sure parents have your contact information and vice versa. Because you deem yourself responsible, be sure you let parents know when you are officially off duty. Have a specific, explicit pickup and drop off time set, and make sure each parent is clear on it. As the host parent, you also have to know the children and be aware of their needs. Be sure to check for behavioral issues and allergies—the more you know, the better. Get out your cape, because when a guest’s mom and dad aren’t around, you become Super Parent and assume the responsibility of GUARDIAN.

offer fun food and fun activities.

Go light on the sugar and make it fun.

Homemade mini pizzas are always a crowd favorite, and there are a dozen easy online recipes with just a few quick guidelines to follow. Fresh fruit and mixed veggies are also a great way to get kids to eat and stay on the safe side. Kid friendly movies like Frozen and games like Twister are great ideas. Building forts or having a karaoke sing-along might be even more fun.

You’re the parent, so you decide. Be sure to feel out the crowd before you make any hasty decisions.

make them go to sleep!

Kids will be kids; that’s why we have adults around. They need guidance along the journey. If we don’t suggest a bedtime, children will stay up all night. Make sure you let them know when the fun is over—at least for the night. Giving suggestive hints like there will be more fun in the morning will give the little people something to look forward to. Put them to bed and be sure to check in every 20 to 30 minutes to make sure everything is alright. I promise you’ll be the talk of the town—or at least of the slumber parties!

Jessica Samuel is a native of St. Louis and current Kansas City resident, journalist, photographer, graduate student, ALLY.

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for easy meals that kids can prepare, visit KCParent.com

practical

life skills

a

lthough home economics classes have disappeared from most schools, kids have a real need to learn the skills associated with running a home and just generally being an independent adult. I didn’t learn how to cook much besides cereal until I was in my early 20s and living on my own—with no more access to a school cafeteria. With plenty of books, web articles and Youtube videos out there, go explore some of these topics with your children, even if you have to learn them to teach them!

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kcparent.com march 2016

to teach your children

1

Cooking/meal planning/ grocery shopping/ nutrition. When “home ec” is

mentioned, you might first think of cooking (and perhaps images of girls wearing poodle skirts with aprons over them). However, there is so much more to learn than how to make a cake or a pot roast. Most kids love to explore in the kitchen—my two especially love to bake (and taste test the end result).

Although schools may impart some basic nutrition information, you can show your children how to plan nutritious meals based

on the ingredients you have and what is on sale. Have them help you plan and shop for a week’s worth of meals. Explain what to look for in choosing produce. Teach them a few simple dishes and practice them until they are confident preparing a meal on their own. Look at recipes together and explain basic cooking terms. Teach them to use a can opener, mixer and blender. If you don’t do a lot of cooking yourself, attending a session at a meal preparation store such as Social Suppers or Dream Dinners can teach kids how to read a recipe, measure, combine

ingredients and store food. Food and appliance safety is important to learn as well (says the author whose crock pot CAUGHT ON FIRE this past Thanksgiving).

2

Household finance.

So many Americans are in debt, which makes clear the fact that personal finance is a subject in which we are not excelling. If you don’t have a budget yourself, making one with your child is a useful endeavor for both of you. Your youngsters might even come up with some categories you hadn’t considered (toys, roller skating, chocolate…). Don’t hesitate to show children how much things cost.

Let them watch you pay the bills or balance your bank account online. This is also a good opportunity to discuss with older children your feelings about how money should be discussed outside the home (if at all). Have your child practice buying a toy or other desired item on “credit.” Do the math together, showing how much the item really costs if he only pays the minimum balance. Younger children can be taught to make change as soon as they have mastered basic addition. Even though coins may disappear by the time your child has a job, I still contend counting out change is a useful skill. Put money your kids have earned or received as gifts into savings accounts so they can earn interest and understand how their money can work for them.

3

Garment care. Teach your kids how to decipher clothing labels and how to sort laundry accordingly.

Stitching a ripped hem and sewing on a button are useful tasks that everyone should know how to do—and they definitely prolong the life of your clothes. Let kids run some of their own laundry unsupervised, and perhaps by the time they move out, they won’t be bringing bags of dirty clothes home for you. (Don’t forget to show them how to empty the lint trap!) Turn the iron on low and let kids iron some older sturdy garments until they get the hang of it.

4

Household basic repairs and maintenance. If your

budget allows (see # 2 above), buy your child her own basic tool kit. Teach her how to hang a picture, work the thermostat, find the fuse box and fire extinguisher, change lightbulbs and furnace filters, unclog a drain and do whatever else is in your personal skill set (that’s about it for mine).

Study up on a few things you didn’t know how to do before. It may just save you a repair bill in the future! In researching this article, I have decided I should learn how to set my water heater, how to shut off water valves and how to take care of my furnace and air conditioner.

5

Automobile use and care. Kids should learn how to

pump gas, check the oil and change a tire before they have a driver’s license.

Take them with you if you go to the car wash or get your oil changed so they can see how it works. Taking your kids to the gas station to inflate your tires is an easy way to get them started on car maintenance.

Younger children should just watch, but teens can help fill the tires. Explain what the lights on the dashboard mean and demonstrate how you shift into gear. When you are riding together, teach youngsters about road signs, traffic and other important driving lessons.

6

Housekeeping. This is last,

because it is my least favorite.

However, I do recognize that it is important to know how to clean properly (even if I don’t do it as often as I should).

While my grandma owned a dishwasher, she washed all the dishes by hand and used the dishwasher for storage. She taught me how to best clean various types of dishes and kitchen equipment and how to store like items for efficiency. Children do best if they are given the specific steps and the right equipment for a task. As parents, we all know that “go clean your room” is usually not specific enough. Other tasks that easily can be broken down into steps include making the bed, mopping the floor and washing windows. Be sure to provide a step stool for younger children, along with the appropriate equipment.

By learning some of these basic skills, children can take pride in being able to help out around the house now, find new areas of interest and start becoming more self-sufficient.

Laura Miller McEachen is a part-time attorney and full-time mommy. She lives in Overland Park.

All classes should have a field trip or two!

Beginner

Advanced

Grocery store Cooking class Bank The Federal Reserve Laundromat Craft store/class Dry cleaners Sewing/fabric store Hardware store Home improvement class Gas station Auto repair business Car wash The 1950s All-Electric House

kcparent.com march 2016

43

WORDFROMDAD

easy as falling off a horse

J

ames saddled his horse and led him twice around the arena, then mounted and directed the graceful animal into an easy walk. He repeated the coach’s order to trot, and Jack, the Welsh pony, picked up his stride. James rose and fell in rhythm with the horse’s gait, posting, they called it.

It was another easy therapy session for him. Somehow, being in the saddle helped him deal with his autism and gave him another item for focus in his narrow search for knowledge, but nothing prepared him for this.

Jack tripped.

Even though the arena is smooth, horses, just like people, can stumble, and Jack was going down. With reflexes I didn’t know he had, James caught a plank of the arena fencing. He stayed in the saddle, held the reins and kept Jack from falling.

Coach Amy walked over to James.

Jack had already recovered, but James was shaken and had dismounted.

“Are you okay?”

“Yes, of course I am.”

“Great job, keeping Jack from falling.”

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kcparent.com march 2016

He shivered. “Thanks.”

“Why don’t you lead him out of the arena and take off his tack? You know the drill.”

James groomed the horse without argument.

The next lessons weren’t so smooth.

James still had frayed nerves and refused to do anything more than a slow walk. He avoided Jack, too, previously his favorite horse. The coaches were familiar with that reaction and remained patient, yet determined. By the time six months had passed, James was trotting and posting again. This time, he chose an English saddle.

“Why aren’t you using a Western saddle?” I asked after a recent lesson.

“I want to compete like Ian, and I have to use this saddle.”

James may have learned more than he thought. A worthwhile goal always helps you up after a fall.

William R. Bartlett lives in Belton with his family.

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

now enrolling!

recreation & competitive levels ages 2 & up

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

FAITH&FAMILY

a game of honor Romans 12:10 “Love one another with brotherly affection.

Outdo one another in showing honor.”

W

ith three highly verbal daughters, we have no shortage of words in our family. Even our calico cat thinks she has to add in her two cents all the time. Thankfully, my husband grew up with a lot of sisters, so he isn’t shocked by our daily word count and he’s perfected the distant-yet-interested smile and nod. Recently, I stumbled upon a new word to introduce into our family’s vocabulary. It’s simple, yet packs a punch. It invites competition but, when assigned to the right mission, it results in a win for everyone involved. The word is outdo.

Merriam-Webster defines outdo as “to go beyond in action or performance.” Simply stated, it means “to do better than.” We love fun and friendly competition in our house,

whether it’s over a game of Scrabble or a basketball game in the cul-de-sac. Romans 12:10 says, “Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor.” The name of our new family game is showing honor and the rules state that we simply have to outdo one another to win.

With that goal in mind, our rules for play are to offer the most respect and esteem in every circumstance. By going beyond the other person in action or words in showing honor, we all come out as winners, but it’s not easy.

Competing to win rarely is though. Contending in a game of honor means surrendering anything not fitting the honor criteria: words that hurt, tear down or offend. Then we must choose to act and speak in ways that leave others feeling respected and esteemed.

psst...

If They’ve Got Homework,

we’re busy whipping up a juicy new issue for

april

You’ve Got Help!

If you live or work in Clay, Jackson, or Platte County and have a Mid-Continent Public Library card, you can start using FREE online resources for elementary, middle, and high school students today.

Our family takes home the gold trophy in outdoing each other in areas like sarcasm and chore avoidance. Who was the winner in ignoring the dirty ice cream bowls sitting on the counter last week? No one, when we didn’t have clean bowls. Who won the word war by throwing sarcasm in the other person’s face during the argument? Everyone lost. We won’t ever pitch a perfect game in this competition, but flawlessness isn’t required, just attempts.

The wisdom in showing honor is that the giver and receiver walk away feeling respected and valued. It’s another way of living out the golden rule Jesus gave in Luke 6:31: “Do to others as you would like them to do to you.” Our homes, our schools, our sports fields, our workplaces and our cities will benefit from our being families who outdo one another in showing honor. It’s one competition where participation trophies mean we all truly win.

Faith & Family columnist Jena Meyerpeter writes from Lenexa. You can follow more of her writings at UnravelGrace.com.

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www.fbcolathe.org kcparent.com march 2016

45

KIDS & MONEY K

ids know what money is at a very young age but don’t necessarily understand what it means or what it can do. Throughout the year, your children may receive money for various reasons.

They may receive cash for birthdays, holidays, baptisms and graduations (seems like the average kid goes through at least six graduations by the time he is 18). Perhaps you have a little entrepreneur on your hands who has created a lawn mowing business, is a dog walking extraordinaire or takes care of the neighborhood children on Friday nights.

What should kids do with that cash? Here are a few tips when dealing with children and money:

Let them make the final decision.

Three Things to Consider When Your Little Ones Receive $$$ are your kids wanTing To earn money? log onTo kcparenT.com for Terrific ideas on how kids can earn Their own money.

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Everyone likes to get new things and do enjoyable activities. Help your child make a wish list of all the items he would like to purchase or events he would like to attend that cost money. Talk him through the details of what each item or event actually costs and how he would like to prioritize the items. Help him weigh the options and offer your advice, but let him make the final decision. This process helps children learn from their mistakes or, conversely, gives them a sense of accomplishment from making a wise choice. If they blow all of their hard-earned funds on toys that break down or are quickly neglected or coveted shoes that rapidly fall “out of style,” children will (hopefully) learn a valuable lesson. Even if you think they are spending foolishly, bite your tongue and let them figure it out.

Take advantage of the learning opportunity.

Use the money as a teaching tool. Help your child create a budget by identifying how much money (or income) she has and how much of it she wants to spend on her list of desired items. Kids rarely look at price tags if they know someone else is paying the bill, but when it is their money, they realize only a finite amount exists and it should be

spent wisely. Learning to manage money at an early age will help youngsters understand the consequences their actions, promote goal-setting and aid them in understanding the concept of self-control. You also could use this opportunity to educate your child about the stock market. Help her research a company she is familiar with (McDonalds, Apple, Disney, etc.) and have her determine which company she would like to invest in and why. Buy a share or two of stock and actively watch it together to help her understand market moves and develop a realistic view about investment returns.

Teach them values.

If being charitable is important to you, use their income to help instill that value in your children. If you believe in giving 10 percent of your income to charity, explain that to your kids, help them calculate the

“The Building Blocks for your Child’s Future”

Talk him through the details of what each item or event actually costs and how he would like to prioritize the items. Help him weigh the options and offer your advice, but let him make the final decision.

percentage and let them choose where the funds will be donated. They will experience the joy of giving and feel very grown up doing it. Many people do not understand the “pay yourself first” saying. Help children determine a long-term financial goal (e.g., saving up for a bike, a laptop for college,

a car or building an emergency fund) and have them allocate a certain percentage of their income to fund those goals BEFORE they can make any purchases with the money.

Many young adults today feel like they are financially ignorant because they never learned the basics about money management. Give your kids the tools they need to be financially aware, make wise decisions and be good financial stewards.

Jamie Bosse, CFP®, RFC, is a mother of two and a financial planner at KHC Wealth Management. Jamie loves to write, travel, barbecue, watch the Kansas State Wildcats win football games and spend time with her husband, sons and pet corgi. She is an active member of the Financial Planning Association of Greater Kansas City.

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perfect for every occasion

Family Features

o matter what kind of events you have on your social calendar, you can pop up delicious treats sure to be a hit.

Whether you’re hosting a get-together for the guys and tuning into the game or having a night in with the girls, freshly popped popcorn—naturally low in fat and calories, non-GMO and gluten free—can help you please every palate.

Sweet, spicy, salty or served in more nontraditional ways, the possibilities are endless and perfect for everything from date night to a family movie night or even a sleepover or kids party. And because popcorn is healthy and a whole grain, the satisfying snack is one you can feel good about serving for every occasion.

Find more versatile, nutritious recipes for your next event at Popcorn.org.

N

Cookies ’N Cream Popcorn Yield: 12 cups

12 c. popped popcorn 1 pkg. (11 oz.) white chocolate chips 2 t. coconut oil 15 Oreo cookies, coarsely chopped

Place popcorn in large bowl; set aside.

In medium saucepan on low heat, melt chocolate chips and coconut oil; stir until blended.

Pour melted chocolate over popcorn, stirring until well-coated. Stir in chopped Oreos.

Spread mixture on baking sheet and chill until chocolate has set. Break into pieces to serve.

Popcorn Party Pizza Yield: 8 slices

3 T. butter

1 bag (10.5 oz.) mini marshmallows

2 qts. popped popcorn

1 tube (.68 oz.) red piping gel

1 pkg. red raspberry fruit roll-ups

green jelly beans coconut

candy-coated chocolate pieces Spray 12-inch pizza pan with cooking spray; set aside.

In large saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Stir in marshmallows until melted. Stir in popcorn until well coated.

Spread mixture evenly onto prepared pizza pan.

Drizzle red piping gel over “pizza” to make “sauce.” Cut small circles (about 1 1/4 inches in diameter) from fruit roll-up and place on pizza for “pepperoni” slices. Decorate as desired with jelly beans, coconut and candies.

Allow to cool completely before cutting into wedges to serve.

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Popcorn and Peanut Truffles Yield: About 30 pieces

6 c. popped popcorn 1 c. roasted and salted peanuts 1 pkg. (12 oz.) semisweet chocolate chips 1/2 c. honey

In large bowl, stir popcorn and peanuts together; set aside.

In microwave-safe bowl, heat chocolate chips 10 seconds. Stir chips and repeat, stirring after each 10 seconds, until chips are melted. Warm honey in microwave 10 seconds and stir into chocolate until well blended.

Pour chocolate mixture over popcorn mixture and stir until popcorn is evenly coated.

Push popcorn mixture into small ice cream scoop and release onto wax paper to form truffles. Refrigerate until firm.

Note: Truffles can be stored in an airtight container up to 5 days.

Toasted Coconut and Chocolate Popcorn Yield: 10 cups

10 c. popped popcorn

2 T. butter or margarine

2 T. light brown sugar

1/2 t. coconut extract (optional)

1 c. chocolate chips

1 t. vegetable oil

1 bag (7 oz.) shredded coconut, toasted Place popcorn in large bowl; set aside.

In small saucepan, combine butter, brown sugar and coconut extract; stir until melted and combined. Pour over popcorn, coating well. Spread popcorn onto large cookie sheet.

In glass measuring cup, melt chocolate chips and vegetable oil in microwave on low heat until smooth. Drizzle over popcorn. Immediately sprinkle coconut over popcorn mixture; cool.

Break into pieces and serve.

Cheesy Pepperoni Popcorn Yield: 6-8 cups

1/4 c. nonfat Parmesan cheese

2 t. garlic powder

1/4 t. dried oregano

1/4 t. dried marjoram leaves

1/4 t. dried basil leaves

1/8 t. dried sage

Black pepper, to taste

12 c. popped popcorn

3/4 c. turkey pepperoni, cut into bite-size bits

Olive oil cooking spray In small bowl, combine Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, oregano, marjoram, basil, sage and pepper; mix well.

Place cooked popcorn and turkey pepperoni in large bowl; spray lightly with cooking spray. Sprinkle popcorn and pepperoni with cheese mixture and toss to coat evenly.

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SECRETS

of happy families

W

e see them everywhere: commercials, sit-coms, ads in our magazines and even at our local parks. Those families who seem to have it all together.

That picture perfect group who all appear rested, happy and to truly enjoy each other’s company. In this crazy life full of errands, work stress and never-ending to-do lists, how do these families accomplish this?

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Some of us look on them with envy, but most of us just want to learn their secrets.

“When I see those parents who seem to have it all together, I always wonder what their secret is. Some days, I feel so scattered.

I feel like that is half the reason moms I know spend so much time on Pinterest and mom blogs—we all want to know the secret for it all to just be a bit easier!” says Emily Thompson, Shawnee mom.

If your family goals in 2016 include achieving a more harmonious household, here are a few tips from metro moms:

Don’t overcommit. A packed schedule doesn’t automatically make a happy family. Keeping your time organized can help keep everyone on track, but allowing time to enjoy the things that matter and protecting your free time can help

I feel like that is half the reason moms I know spend so much time on Pinterest and mom blogs—we all want to know the secret for it all to just be a bit easier! prevent stress from building up. “When we are rushing from one thing to another, even just on family outings, it is hard to enjoy the time together. Sometimes, just goofing around in the backyard is the best way for us to blow off steam and unwind,” says Becki Carter, Olathe mom.

Get everyone involved. When you make plans as a family, the easiest way to ensure everyone will have fun is to include everyone in the planning. Take turns choosing where you go and what you do, so each family member gets a turn to voice an option. “We take turns planning our family time. This takes the pressure off of me to plan something fun each time, and I know when one of the kids picks something, it is something they really enjoy,” Tammy Hield, Olathe mom, says. “Plus, that gives us a chance to try out things they like and keeps us connected.”

Create traditions. Whether it is donuts on Saturday mornings or a monthly picnic in the park, making small traditions keeps everyone engaged and on the same page.

When the group looks forward to the same event, it automatically creates a feeling

of solidarity. Traditions are also great for making memories! “We have a monthly movie night. We take turns picking the movie, and a different person gets to pick the snacks each time,” Kelly Mills, Lee’s Summit mom, says. “It is low key, but we all look forward to it. And keeping it on the calendar each month means we all make time for it.”

Make mealtime mean something. Mealtime can be a great moment for family bonding. Encourage all members of the family to participate in meal planning so everyone feels ownership.

Put away the devices, turn off the television and make time for catching up and sharing the news of the day! It doesn’t have to be dinner—find a mealtime that works with your family’s schedule.

Keep it in perspective. Some things are worth punishments or conversations and some things aren’t. The world is full of accidents and unintentional mishaps. If a family member hurts your feelings, forgets an important date or does not behave the way you would like, take a pause before addressing it. When you do approach a

family member in these situations, avoid accusations. Talk about your feelings and perceptions while allowing the other person to share as well.

Remember what matters. To keep your stress levels down, put the things that matter most to you at the top of the to-do list. If you can’t concentrate on family game night when the kitchen is a mess, make time to clean up the kitchen—but don’t feel the need to tackle the whole house. “My kids have their things, my husband has his and I have mine,” says Shelly Martin, Overland Park mom. “We each know what we need to do to be able to relax and enjoy each other.

We do those things, but we don’t let our to-do lists get so long that they take over.”

Some families make a list of family rules or a family mission statement based on what matters to them the most. When life gets too hectic, they refer back to their family’s foundation and are able to find solutions that are in line with what is meaningful to them.

Melissa Bellach is a freelance writer and mother of two living in Overland Park.

Fostering Affection to Promote Bonding A great way to promote family bonding is by showing affection for one another. When parents demonstrate this behavior, children learn how to provide verbal and physical nurturing. Here are few tips to get you started:

ffer verbal praise and reassurance, even for small O accomplishments or set-backs.

heck in with each other frequently; being specific C generally provides the most detailed response.

Ask about a certain class or project when your kids get home from school rather than asking about the entire day.

Physical affection can build closeness and trust.

Everything from a hug to a high-five allows for a positive connection through touch.

Small favors can mean big rewards. If someone in the house is having a tough day, pitch in and help out without being asked. This will show the person he has support and his feelings are being recognized, even if he isn’t verbalizing them yet.

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IMPORTANT

5

crucial things to get done

Y

ou know it’s important. You know it needs to be done. You know it’s been on your to-do list for months or years. However, it doesn’t have a due date or a time limit. No one’s bugging you about it, so there’s no sense of urgency.

And so those super-important, seriously life-impacting things often just don’t get done. The facts are that tragedies happen, emergencies occur, the unexpected catches us off guard. Planning ahead and being prepared for those things will greatly lessen the stress and hardship for all parties involved. Let’s take a look at five of those things:

Every family needs an escape route and meeting place for an emergency!

Nothing is more important in an emergency than saving the lives of our family members! Yet many of us have not planned and practiced an emergency escape route or established a meeting place. This is crucial! It seems like emergencies only

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but not urgent enough

happen to other people, but one of these days it might be me or you, right?

Talk with your family about what to do in case of an emergency. Make sure everyone knows and practices the safest way to exit the house. The Red Cross suggests choosing two places to meet: one right outside home in case of a sudden emergency, such as a fire, and another outside your neighborhood, in case you cannot return home or are asked to evacuate.

Every family needs proper supplies for an emergency situation!

Do you know where your fire extinguisher is? Are your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors working? Do you have ample water and food on hand?

Are there jumper cables and blankets in your car? Do you have a battery-powered radio in case power is out for an extended period of time? The time to prepare is before the emergency happens! For information, visit RedCross.org or Ready.gov.

Every family needs a sufficient amount of life insurance!

Please, please, please get life insurance today if you do not already have it. If your family income were suddenly reduced or eliminated entirely by someone’s passing, how would your family survive, purchase essentials and pay bills? Financial expert Dave Ramsey recommends 10 times your income in term life insurance. If you are a reasonably healthy person, it is not expensive. Buying life insurance is one of the most loving things you can do for your family. For tips on this, check out the following article: DaveRamsey.com/blog/5term-life-insurance-mistakes.

Every family needs an up-to-date will!

Geoff Williams of U.S. News and World Report says, “The hardest part about writing a will is finding the will to do it.” The one question to consider is this: Do you want the government to decide what happens with your children and your assets, or do YOU want to decide? Rocket Lawyer (RocketLawyer.com) suggests the following reasons to get a will done ASAP!

• To appoint a guardian for your children • To protect your business • To decide who receives your assets • To provide for a favorite charity • To make a difficult time less difficult According to CaregiversLibrary.org, more than half of Americans who own property die without a will. This is definitely an important issue to research and take care of this year! For more information, see this article: Money.USNews.com/money/ personal-finance/articles/2014/09/19/10steps-to-writing-a-will.

Every family needs a thorough list of major accounts and account information!

One beneficial thing you can do to prepare for the unexpected is to compile a list of all your account information. If I had to find some of that information right now, I would be looking through many piles and files! If your spouse or someone else suddenly has to take over your finances, he or she needs to know what companies you

are with, your account numbers, user name and passwords and contact information.

If your home is destroyed for some reason or your computer crashes or who knows what, this account compilation document would be crucial. It needs to be created and saved in a safe place. You also need to let another friend or relative know how to locate that document. Taking the time to make this document can save an immense amount of hassle and hardship in the future.

This is a fairly simple thing to take care of. Don’t forget to review and update it occasionally.

So, that is my list of important things to do in 2016. What is on your list? Let’s realize those important things really are urgent and make a plan to get them done in 2016!

Blogging at Mom-in-Progress.com, Tori Walker wants to know what other things you would add to the “important but not urgent enough” list. Email her your suggestions at TorisTunes@gmail.com. She also confesses to only having one of the above things completed!

Dentistry That Will Make Kids

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kcparent.com march 2016

53

sleep SOS: your top five struggles solved

F

or better health and a sharper mind, few things are more beneficial than a good night’s sleep. That goes double for little ones. The benefits of sleep on learning and memory may be even more profound for children than for adults, because children store memories during sleep more effectively, according to new research published in Nature Neuroscience.

Unfortunately, getting your child to sleep well can be a daily—make that nightly—

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challenge, from birth through the school years. Whether you have a nurse-all-night newborn, a toddler who won’t stay in bed or a grade-schooler who takes hours to fall asleep at night, sleep struggles can seem never-ending. Read on for solutions to some of childhood’s biggest sleep saboteurs.

Months 0-6: All Night Nurse-a-Thon Frequent nighttime nursing is normal, even expected, during the first two months of life. Weeks 2-8 bring a fussy period

that may include near-constant nursing from 8:00 p.m. to midnight, as babies take advantage of nursing hormones that peak at night. During these early weeks, sleeping close to Baby (the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends putting Baby to sleep in a separate crib in the parents’ bedroom) and napping while Baby naps during the day can help new moms feel rested enough to function.

After month three, babies can begin to learn to sleep without being “latched”

“It’s okay to read a bedtime story, hold the child and listen to quiet music. But please turn off all of the extra supports and put the child in bed drowsy but still awake.” all night. Once Baby is in a relaxed sleep state, with deep, regular breathing, limp extremities and a relaxed jaw, slide a pinky finger into the corner of the baby’s mouth to aid in unlatching, says registered nurse Elizabeth Damato, Ph.D., sleep research program director with Case Western Reserve University School of Nursing in Cleveland, OH. If Baby fusses or wakes during this process, consider soothing with a pacifier, a tactic approved by the AAP that may serve to protect against Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. The pacifier won’t replace nursing but can help Mom get some rest before Baby’s next feeding. And no need to worry: “There is no evidence that pacifier use interferes with breastfeeding when the pacifier is introduced after the first month,” Damato says.

Months 6-12: Tiresome Teething First teeth generally appear around 6 months and can cause fussiness and interrupt sleep in the second half of the first year, according to Charles Shubin, M.D., director of pediatrics at Mercy FamilyCare in Baltimore, MD. Unfortunately, topical remedies like teething gels have little benefit, he says.

Babies 6 months and older who seem to be in a great deal of pain may be relieved by oral acetaminophen or ibuprofen.

Though teething can sabotage sleep in infancy, so can a lot of other things, like hunger, illness and inappropriate sleep routines, according to Shubin. Paying attention to other aspects of a baby’s sleep routine can help him sleep more soundly during teething spells and the rest of the time too. For example, depriving a baby of regular naps—and conversely, allowing a baby to nap more than two hours at a stretch—can result in fussy, poor quality nighttime sleep and make Baby more likely to wake with teething pain. For sounder sleep, offer regular naps that are restful but not overly long (think 1-2 hours, max).

Ages 1-3: Bye-Bye, Bed! Big kid beds can be exciting. But tots may exercise newfound freedom by popping out of bed, again and again. Consistency and swift action are the keys to breaking this habit, says Robert Oexman, M.D., director of the Sleep to Live Institute in Mebane, NC. Whether a child gets up because she’s frightened, needs to use the bathroom or just wants to see you, return her to bed quickly. Tell her you’ll return to check on her in 5 minutes and then continue checking every 5 to 10 minutes until she falls asleep again. Make sure to return as promised; this reassures your child and builds trust.

Nighttime visits may continue for up to a week, says Oexman, but staying consistent with this plan should help children begin sleeping all night within a week.

For an inquisitive toddler, wandering the house at night can be a significant safety hazard. Dyan Hes, M.D., medical director at Gramercy Pediatrics in New York City, recommends using a baby gate in the doorway of your child’s bedroom during the transition to a big kid bed.

A child who likes to fall asleep with a parent lying in bed can be gradually weaned from this habit if a parent gradually moves a bit farther away each night. Eventually, the child will feel comfortable falling asleep without constant contact.

Ages 3-5: Bedtime Battles Preschooler throwing a fit at bedtime?

Many children in the pre-K set struggle with “sleep associations,” or the cues that trigger sleep, says Adiaha Spinks-Franklin, M.D., developmental-behavioral pediatrician at Texas Children’s Hospital in Houston.

When a child is used to falling to sleep under certain conditions—for example, with music playing, with the lights on or with a parent lying nearby—the child will resist falling asleep at bedtime unless those exact circumstances are present, each and every time.

The best way to help this is to teach the child to fall asleep without parental assistance, says Spinks-Franklin. “It’s okay to read a bedtime story, hold the child and listen to quiet music. But please turn off all of the extra supports and put the child in bed drowsy but still awake.”

Malia Jacobson is a nationally published health and parenting journalist and mom of three. Her latest book is Sleep Tight, Every Night: Helping Toddlers and Preschoolers Sleep Well Without Tears, Tricks, or Tirades.

Ages 5-10: The Long Good-bye If your grade-schooler takes hours to fall asleep, don’t blame him—the problem may be his bedtime. Elementary school brings many shifts, including a rapid increase in neurophysiological growth and a shift toward needing fewer hours of shut-eye each night. This may mean your child’s old bedtime is too early, says Spinks-Franklin.

“Many parents assume that 7:00 or 8:00 is the magic bedtime. But as children get older, they’re less likely to feel sleepy then.”

A grade-schooler’s natural bedtime may fall closer to 8:30 or 9:00. As long as the child is receiving about 9-10 hours of sleep and doesn’t appear sleepy during the day, rest assured she’s sleeping enough and enjoy a later, quicker, more peaceful bedtime routine.

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a Kansas City

s

k a e br

g n i r staycation p

W

hen was the last time you had fun exploring your own hometown? This spring break, hit up favorite Kansas City tourist hot spots and see the city through the eyes of a visitor.

destination #1: Downtown

Scout Statue

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The Coterie (TheCoterie.org) on Level I of Crown Center is known for high quality professional children’s shows. This March, they are featuring two productions. Tomás and the Library Lady, through March 18, is the true-life tale of storyteller Tomás Rivera, a boy who moves from Texas to Iowa for the fruit picking season and falls in love with reading. At the local library, he discovers a surprising world filled with dinosaurs, tigers and a great new friend. He is encouraged to become the family storyteller. From March 21 to May 7, enjoy Where the Wild Things Are. One of the most popular children’s books of all time comes to life on stage as the audience helps transform Max’s bedroom into a forest, then uses masks to become the Wild Things, Max’s benevolent monster friends. Both shows promise to be memorable and magical mustsee experiences on the Coterie’s stage.

While you’re at Crown Center, be sure to treat the kids to lunch at Fritz’s, where trains deliver food to your table, or split a pizza at D’Bronx. Play for free at the Animal Tales & Trails Exhibit, an interactive habitat where children learn about polar bears, penguins, kangaroos and more.

Across the street, enjoy Legoland Discovery Center (LegolandDiscoveryCenter.com), an indoor experience for the Lego enthusiast.

With a mini replica of Kansas City, theme park styled rides and a variety of creation stations for Lego builders. Legoland offers fun for kids of all ages. Next door, visit Sea Life (VisitSeaLife.com), Kansas City’s only aquarium with a touch pool where you can interact and play with several animals, and numerous aquariums including a walk-through tunnel where you see sharks, stingrays, sea turtles and a variety of fish.

While you’re in the neighborhood, pop over to Kaleidoscope (HallmarkKaleidoscope.com), one of the best destinations in Kansas City, according to our readers and their kids. This free hands-on art center, courtesy of Hallmark, invites visitors into a magical realm of creativity, where kids can create jigsaw puzzles, glow-in-the-dark art, crowns and more.

Kaleidoscope

Join us for a

SPRING BREAK

BLAST at Union Station!

ole Family

h Fun for the W

Don’t miss so much NEW

to SEE & DO!

• Internationally Awarded Science Center: Daily Demos & Activities • Da Vinci: The Exhibition: World-Class Traveling Exhibit • New Planetarium Shows • Extreme Screen Theatre: First-Run Movies on Largest Screen in Midwest • Free Model Train Exhibit: “Best Kept Secret in Missouri” • Free Award-Winning Union Station History Exhibits • Restaurants, Retail and So Much More!

n.org o i t a t S n o i n Plan your visit. U kcparent.com march 2016

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Next door to Kaleidoscope, experience the story of Kansas City’s own Hallmark, from its founding in 1910 to today.

Visit the Hallmark Visitors Center (HallmarkVisitorsCenter.com) and watch as greeting cards and wrapping paper are made, then participate in hands-on fun as you make a souvenir gift bow with the push of a button.

destination #2: Midtown/ Country Club Plaza The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures (ToyAndMiniatureMuseum. org) reopened recently after an amazing makeover, making it one of the most fun and engaging museums in town. The first impression is incredible: A giant rotating spiral of backlit toys greets visitors who delight in finding their own favorites and discovering new ones on the animated real-life collage. The dollhouse displays are beautifully lit and presented, and the Coleman dollhouse, in a new home, will still open every December, maintaining a special holiday tradition. New and improved exhibits throughout include a Grandma’s Attic display showcasing toys and presenting

their individual stories as treasures to be discovered. Visitors will enjoy interactive exhibits, learning more about the process of making both miniatures and toys.

Then take a stroll through Kauffman Memorial Gardens (4800 Rockhill Rd., Kansas City, MO). The 2-acre garden features more than 7,000 plants and flowers.

This free attraction is part of the Kauffman Legacy Park in the heart of Kansas City.

Powell Gardens, in partnership with the Muriel McBrien Kauffman Foundation and the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, manages and maintains the garden.

Just a few miles away, visit the NelsonAtkins Museum of Art (Nelson-Atkins. org), voted the best museum in the United States on Yelp.com. Home to one of the largest galleries in the nation, the museum maintains a permanent collection representing art from throughout history and around the world. Visitors enjoy the galleries and, on sunny days, picnic or stroll the landscaped museum grounds and sculpture garden.

Top off the day with a nice lunch or dinner at one of the restaurants on the Country Club Plaza (CountryClubPlaza.com).

From March 16 to April 12, watch the Plaza’s annual transformation into an Easter wonderland. Every year, beautiful bunny and springtime animal sculptures decorate the Plaza’s courtyards and street corners. Visit CountryClubPlaza.com for a map.

destination #3: Kansas City, KS Stay at Great Wolf Lodge in Kansas City, KS, (GreatWolf.com, 866.640.6353) an indoor water resort with a four-story interactive treehouse water fort, winding lazy river and numerous slides, including the Triple Twist, a high speed, five-story drop into a huge funnel followed by twists and turns. All of this is housed in a luxurious hotel!

Nearby, visit the Legends Outlets (LegendsShopping.com) for local shopping and dining.

Take in a little sightseeing as well.

History buffs will enjoy a tour of Grinter Place (1420 S. 78th St., Kansas City, KS, 913.299.0373), the oldest home in Wyandotte County, for a look at frontier life along the Kansas and Missouri border.

For more spring break ideas and inspiration, be sure to visit the calendar on KCParent.com.

Plus, click the Going Places link on KCParent.com for information on more local attractions.

bonus afternoon field trip the crossroads Driving through Kansas City, you may find your curiosity piqued by a building with an airplane curiously mounted on the roof. What could it be? That airplane has become the trademark of the Roasterie, known for selling premier air-roasted coffee.

The business offers one of the most fun free tours in town. Visitors watch as coffee goes from bean to brew. Call 816.931.4000 for reservations. Then, dine at a locally-owned restaurant in the Crossroads (CrossroadsKC.com).

The Crossroads

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destination #4: Independence, MO Independence was home to the 33rd president of the United States, Harry S. Truman. Learn about his presidency at the Truman Presidential Library (TrumanLibrary.org). There, visitors participate in interactive exhibits, including a replica Oval Office. They also explore Truman artifacts and special exhibits.

For a treat, head over to the Independence Square for ice cream at Clinton’s Soda Fountain or lunch at a local restaurant. Take a mule-drawn wagon ride with Pioneer Trails Adventures (PioneerTrailsAdventures.com) and listen to the history of the town where three trails began, two Civil War battles raged and, of course, Harry Truman lived.

Independence offers a variety of historic sites to tour. Learn more about President Truman on a tour of the Truman Home (NPS.gov/hstr/index.htm). Or visit the National Frontier Trails Museum (ci.Independence.mo.us/nftm), which

DREAM DINNERS

tells the story of Lewis and Clark and the Westward Expansion on the Oregon, California and Santa Fe trails through artifacts and the journals of early pioneers.

Vaile Mansion (VaileMansion.org) is a beautiful Victorian mansion telling the history of one of Independence’s original wealthy families, and the BinghamWaggoner Estate (BWEstate.org) was home to Missouri artist George Caleb Bingham and tells the story of the Civil War in Missouri. Be sure to visit kid-favorite Puppetry Arts Institute (Hazelle.org), a puppet museum that performs live puppet shows for children and offers puppet making workshops.

Kristina Light and her girls are looking forward to upcoming shows at the Coterie and new adventures this spring.

National Frontier Trails Museum

IS THE

PERfEcT oPTIoN foR...

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AND vAcATIoN! LET DREAM DINNERS HELP! TRY US ONCE WITH 6 MEALS FOR ONLY $74.95!

www.dreamdinners.com OverlandParkKS@dreamdinners.com 913.491.6733 kcparent.com march 2016

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march CALENDAR

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

Blue Morpho at Powell Gardens

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

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meet

visit

see

watch

learn

Visit Paradise Park on March 5 at 1:00 to meet the Cat in the Hat. Join KCPT as you meet the Cat in the Hat and be sure to bring your camera for a photo op!

816.398.4238

March 12 is National Museum Day. At Shawnee Town 1929, cook on a wood-burning stove, hear stories, engage in games and crafts. Free admission today.

ShawneeTown.org

Visit Powell Gardens for this year’s Spring Butterfly Exhibit from March 12 thru April 3. Blue Morpho butterflies return! Exhibit includes hands-on learning.

PowellGardens.org

The Kansas City St. Patrick’s Day Parade has become one of the largest St. Patrick’s Day parades in the nation. Watch it this year on March 17 at 11:00.

KCIrishParade.com

On March 26 at 1:00, take the family to Journey to the Cross at Blue Ridge Bible Church to celebrate Easter.

Children and adults can walk the path that Jesus walked.

BlueRidgeBible.org

1 Tuesday Jumperoo 9:00, Urban Air Trampoline Park. A special time for those 5 and under to enjoy access to the playground and trampoline attractions. $10/child, parents free. 800.960.4778 Toddle Time 9:00, Matt Ross Community Center.

Open playtime with an array of toys, including blocks, balls and puzzles. $1-$2. 913.895.6350 Tomás and the Library Lady 9:45 & 11:45, the Coterie. Tomás visits the library. He discovers worlds filled with dinosaurs and tigers and makes a great new friend. TheCoterie.org Coffee Playground 10:00, OP First Assembly of God. Free play in the gym for kids 5 and under. Inflatables, scooters, balls and other toys!

OverlandParkMOPS.com Creative Story Time 11:00, Ceramic Café. Read a book and then paint a ceramic item that goes along with the story. Finish with a snack. $9.50.

CeramicCafeKC.com

2 Wednesday Happy Birthday, Dr Seuss! Take time to read some of your favorite Dr Seuss stories today. Search “Seuss” on KCParent.com for Seussian inspiration!

animal Tales & Trails Thru May 1, Crown Center, Level 1. Enter an interactive habitat where children learn about interesting creatures. CrownCenter.com animal Tales Story Time 10:30, Ernie Miller.

Enjoy stories, songs and a visit from a special animal friend. $2/person. 913.764.7759 Open Gym Noon, Integrity Gymnastics. A great time to practice, get familiar with the gym and for kids to release energy. $6.

IntegrityOP.com What’s for Dinner? 3:30, Burr Oak Woods.

Watch every Wednesday and Sunday as the captive amphibians, fish and turtles enjoy their feast. 816.228.3766 Parent information Meeting 7:00, Primrose School of Overland Park. Learn more about the new Primrose School coming to North Olathe.

PrimroseNorthOlathe.com

3 Thursday Sensory Time 9:00, Johnson County Museum.

Kidscape can be loud; this special time is for kids with sensory integration and processing needs. 913.715.2575

Baby Bounce Story Time 9:30, Plaza Branch.

A special story time for babies (newborn to 18 months) with parent or caregiver. 816.701.3481 Junie B Jones, the Musical 10:00, H&R Block City Stage. A musical adaptation of the beloved stories by Barbara Park. TYA.org Manifest Destiny 2:00, Nat’l Frontier Trails Museum. Learn about one of the most powerful concepts in American history during a 30-minute guided tour.

Discover MCa 6:00, Maranatha (North Campus Gym). Learn about all we have to offer your child through a presentation and campus tours.

MCA-Eagles.org

4 Friday Da Vinci: The Exhibition Thru May 1, Union Station. Explore Leonardo da Vinci’s genius and experience his creations. UnionStation.org Story Time 10:30 & 11:15, Wonderscope. Join us in our ArtWorks Exhibit for story time. This is free with museum admission. Wonderscope.org Paint Me a Story 10:30, Paint, Glaze & Fire.

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

913.661.2529

need a ride?

Just across the road.

A collection that speaks for itself.

open daily: 10 aM – 4pM, CloSed TUeSdayS

5235 oak STreeT k anSaS CiT y, Mo 64112

816.235.80 0 0

ToyandMiniaTUreMUSeUM.org

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w to balance objects and juggle yourself!

Spring Open House Thru Sunday, Downtown Lee’s Summit. Merchants introduce new items for spring, and customers can enter to win a shopping spree! DowntownLS.org

&Metcalf

435

First Fridays 5:00, Crossroads Art District.

Galleries and shops remain open the first Friday of each month. KCCrossroads.org

Gymnastics

Spring Break Camps

age 3 & Up -potty trained-

A New Camp Each Day!

Cost Per Day Camp

3/10 Science

Come and learn what happens when different elements combine.

This camp is exploding with fun!

3/11 Art

Learn how to make play doh or make a colorful mosaic!

Let's get our creative juices flowing!

3/14 Circus

Come see the strong man balance things on his face and juggle!

Ladders, chairs, lawn mowers and more! Then try it yourself!

3/15 Frozen

Turn each other into a snowman, play with Elsa, go on a musical scavenger hunt, and enjoy a frozen snack and craft!

3/16 Super Hero

Transform into your favorite superhero...

Design your own cape and mask

3/17 Baking and Decorating

Wear your chef hat and create awesome cupcakes, cookies, and pretzels!

3/18 Princess

Wear your favorite princess dress and we will help you accessorize!

Create a crown and wand and dance with us at the royal ball!

www.integrityop.com

tumble@integrityop.com

9am - 12pm $30 Pre-Register $35 At the Door Snacks Provided 9am - 4pm $50 Pre-Register $55 At the Door 2 Snacks Provided PACK A LUNCH 10% off for additional siblings (Must Be Family)

913-766-8918

Join us for Stinky Cheese Man March 18-26, 2016

A rip -roaring fairy tale adventure that’s loads of family fun!

rockin’ rob 6:30, KCPL (Plaza Branch).

KC-area performer Rockin’ Rob delivers an evening of music, movement and magic. Free.

816.701.3481 New Moon Walk 7:00, Overland Park Arboretum. Enjoy stargazing, nighttime sights and sounds and educational activities. Bring the family and flashlights. $3. 913.685.3604 The Secret Garden 7:00, Truman Memorial Building. The classic tale of a British child from India who finds a new home on the moors of England. Pre-reg at 816.833.9777.

5 Saturday Midwest Christian Education Expo 9:30, Colonial Presbyterian Church. Visit with 80 colleges, private K-12 schools and homeschooling resources. Free. 816.524.4522 Girl Scouts Cookie Construction Thru March 26, Crown Center Shops. See one-of-a-kind displays made entirely of empty Girl Scout cookie boxes. 816.274.8444 art Class 10:00, Nerman Museum. Learn about visual textures and experiment with different ways to make a printed image.

NermanMuseum.org What is a Timberdoodle? 10:00, Burr Oak Woods Nature Center. Come learn when and where to see these birds and then create a craft to take home. 816.228.3766 Juliette’s Dream 10:00, Ernie Miller Nature Center. Learn about Juliette Gordon Low and why she started the Girl Scouts. $5/person.

Must pre-reg at 913.831.3359.

Blue Springs art League Show Today & tomorrow, Vesper Hall. Show includes more than 100 displays of photography, mixed media, drawing, sculptures and more. Free. 816.228.0238

For tickets or more information, visit mesnerpuppets.org or call 816-756-3500.

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Cat in the Hat Meet and Greet 1:00, Paradise Park. Join KCPT and meet the Cat in the Hat. Bring your camera for a photo op! 816.398.4238 r.E.a.D. to a Dog 1:30, Olathe Indian Creek Library. Young readers of all ages may drop by and read to a cuddly canine. OlatheLibrary.org

Nature Story Time 1:30, Martha LaFite Nature Sanctuary. Listen to a naturalist read a tale about an animal and then make a fun craft.

NatureSanctuary.com

Out of the Blue

a SprIng

Butterfly

Major League improv 7:30, ComedyCity. A comedy sporting event with everything decided upon by the audience. $9-$13. 816.842.2744

6 Sunday

EXHIBIT

Purchase Tickets for Lego KidsFest May 13-15, Kansas City Convention Center. The Lego KidsFest comes to Kansas City this spring. Get your tickets now! LegoKidsFest.com

at powell Gardens

Exhibit opEn 10 a.m.-4 p.m. daily

art + family = FUN 1:00, Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Join us every Saturday and Sunday for free activities for all ages! 816.751.1278

March 12-april 3

The Little Little Girl with the Big Big Voice 2:00, KCPL (Plaza Branch). Coterie Theatre artists read from favorite children’s books. Free.

816.701.3407 Dance the Mouse House 3:00 & 7:00, Olathe East High School. Miller Marley Entertainers debut the show they will perform at Walt Disney World. $5. MillerMarley.com

7 Monday KCPT Kids Writers Contest Thru April 15.

Calling all young authors and illustrators!

Kindergarten through third-graders are invited to submit their stories. KCPT.org Toddler Takeover 10:00, Kansas City North Community Center. Bring your little ones under 4 to run and play in the gym. $1. 816.784.6100 ice Skating Noon, Crown Center Ice Terrace.

Enjoy a day of skating with the family at KC’s only outdoor rink. See KCParent.com for coupon. CrownCenter.com

TM

Instaa Inst

Kansas City’s Botanical Garden 30 miles east of KC on Hwy. 50.

816.697.2600 | powellgardens.org/morphos

Heritage Christian Academy NOW LING ENROL !

K-12

Power Hour 1:00, Little Monkey Bizness.

Arrive between 1:00 and 3:00 on Mondays and Wednesdays and admission is just $5 plus tax!

913.631.7000 Jazz on the Square 5:30, Corbin Theatre (Liberty). Enjoy live jazz. The music will keep your toes tapping, and the ballads will warm your heart! CorbinTheatre.org Library Letterboxing 6:00, Oak Park Library.

Participants will make a stamp and a simple logbook to take home. For Brownie Girl Scouts and second- and third-graders. JoCoLibrary.org Self-Defense for Teens 6:30, MCPL (North Oak).

Learn how to defend yourself from attacks. Be proactive instead of reactive. Must pre-reg at MYMCPL.org.

ELEMENTARY OPEN HOUSES March 10 and April 7 - 9-11 am

Tour the Campus Meet with HCA Parents/Administration Visit Classes EAST CAMPUS – ELEMENTARY/CENTRAL OFFICE 9333 W 159th St., Overland Park, KS 66221, 913.681.7622 WEST CAMPUS – JUNIOR/SENIOR HIGH 16000 Blackbob Rd., Olathe, KS 66062, 913.782.3262

VISIT HCAKC.ORG FOR MORE INFORMATION Campus tours available on request.

Christ-centered academic excellence.

kcparent.com march 2016

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The Very Hungry Caterpillar and Other Eric Carle Favorites March 10, 10:00 & 11:30, Folly Theater. Three beloved stories are retold on stage with fanciful puppets. FollyTheater.org

8 Tuesday Da Vinci: The Exhibition Thru May 1, Union Station. Explore Leonardo da Vinci’s genius and experience his creations. UnionStation.org

Elephant & Piggie’s We Are in a Play!

9:45 & Noon, Carlsen Center (JCCC).

Favorite characters Elephant and Piggie explore the importance of friendship.

JCCC.edu/theseries

Toddler Tuesdays 10:00, Sea Life Aquarium.

Tickets are just $14 for one toddler (0-4) and one adult! VisitSeaLife.com

Stereotypes to Civil rights Thru Aug 21, National Museum of Toys and Miniatures.

Explore stereotypes of people of African descent through paper dolls. 816.235.8000

Creative Story Time 11:00, Ceramic Café. Read a book and then paint a ceramic item that goes along with the story. Finish with a snack. $9.50.

CeramicCafeKC.com

Twitter Chat Noon. Join KC Parent and Children’s Mercy Hospital for a Twitter chat dealing with food allergies. @BreatheKC

The Dance of the Woodcock 6:30, Burr Oak Woods. Join us to find out if we can see the dance of the American woodcock! Ages 7-12.

Must pre-reg at 816.228.3766.

Parent information Meeting 7:00, Primrose School of Overland Park. Learn more about the new Primrose School coming to North Olathe.

PrimroseNorthOlathe.com

9 Wednesday

10 Thursday

Pop ‘n Play 9:00, Johnson County Museum.

A drop-in program with age-appropriate activities for children 9 months to 3 years old.

913.715.2550

Elementary Open House 9:00, Heritage Christian Elementary. Parents can take campus tours, talk to current students and sit in on classes. HCAKC.org

Open Gym 9:00, Indian Creek Community Church (Olathe). A time for kids 6 and under to play, run, kick, ride and jump. Free.

IndianCreek.org Preschool Bowling 10:00, Mission Bowl (Olathe). Receive one game of bowling, shoes, ball and a soft drink for only $3.

MissionBowl.com The Very Hungry Caterpillar and Other Eric Carle Favorites 10:00 & 11:30, Folly Theater.

Three beloved stories are retold on stage with fanciful puppets. FollyTheater.org

CHRIST IS RISEN JOIN US FOR EASTER SERVICES

One Church Multiple Locations

Lenexa

Bonner Springs

North Kansas City

Greenwood

For more information visit lenexabaptist.com 64

kcparent.com march 2016

Shawnee

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Thru Sunday, Goppert Theatre (Avila University). Everyone’s favorite flying car comes to life in the musical adaptation of the family film. CYTKC.org

11 Friday Jumperoo 9:00, Urban Air Trampoline Park. A special time for those 5 and under to enjoy access to the playground and trampoline attractions. $10/child, parents free.

800.960.4778 Story Time for Babies 9:30, MCPL (North Oak).

Fun, engaging story time for babies to instill a foundation for early literacy. MyMCPL.org Emerald isle St Patrick’s Day Parade Noon, Downtown Lee’s Summit. Annual parade featuring floats, Irish dancers, musicians and more. DowntownLS.org Fine art Friday 1:00, Kemper Museum. Docent led interactive tour. Students examine objects through observation and discussion. Ages 6-12.

Free. KemperArt.org Trout Stocking 2:30 (Kill Creek Park) & 3:45 (SM Park). Start your spring break by watching as the lakes are filled with rainbow trout. Free.

913.831.335

Second Friday art Crawl 5:00, Downtown Excelsior Springs. Enjoy feature artists, music, dining and shopping. 816.630.6161 Pajama Party 6:00, Gymboree Play & Music (Zona Rosa). Children mobile to 5 years old, along with their grown-ups, join us in your PJ’s for fun activities! $15/child. 816.505.3344 Middle School Teen Night 7:00, Paradise Park.

Spring is in the air, and tonight’s shindig is packed with spring break fun! For only $15 get a “pick 3” wristband. Paradise-Park.com

12 Saturday Spring Butterfly Exhibit Thru April 3, Powell Gardens. Blue Morpho butterflies return this spring! Exhibit includes hands-on learning.

PowellGardens.org

all you Need is the Beatles! 10:30, Central Library. Library staff will host a hootenanny (bring your guitars and ukuleles!) that will entertain and educate. JoCoLibrary.org String Fling 11:00 & 2:00, Puppetry Arts Institute. Marionettes tunefully welcome spring. $6. Reservations recommended.

816.833.9777 Mad Science 11:00, Martha LaFite Nature Sanctuary. Come watch and participate in cool science demonstrations. Must pre-reg at 816.781.8598.

Spring Luncheon and Fashion Show 11:30, Bingham-Waggoner Estate. Lunch, fashion and fun at the 29th annual spring luncheon. Must register at BWEstate.net/events.

Signs of Spring Hike 1:00, Country Club Park (Independence). Take a naturalist-led hike to see the abundant signs winter is leaving us.

816.325.7115

Celebrate DNa Day 10:00, Science City.

Spend the day exploring at Science City with DNA-themed demos and workshops.

UnionStation.org National Museum Day 10:00, Shawnee Town 1929. Cook on a wood-burning stove, hear stories, engage in games and crafts. Free admission today. ShawneeTown.org

Free Family Carnival 2:00, the Culture House.

Fun for the entire family! Food, games, prizes, face paint, photo booth, cotton candy and more! Free admission. CultureHouse.com

!

!

E C N E I D U A R U O Y THRILL

with an unforgettable night under the stars!

11'

19'

14'

23 FEET

From concerts to video games, sporting events to movies, we transform your venue into a world-class cinema.

H residential H college campuses H parks & pools

H school events H churches H corporations

Outdoor Cinema • Special Events 12120 State Line Rd., Suite 100, Leawood, KS 66209

913.424.9444

•

Movies2U.com kcparent.com march 2016

65

St. Patrick’s Day Parade March 17. The parade has become Kansas City’s largest single-day civic event, as well as one of the largest St. Patrick’s Day parades in the nation! KCIrishParade.com

Brookside St Patrick’s Day Warm-Up Parade 2:00, Brookside. Family fun event! Parade starts at 65th & Wornall. BrooksideKC.org Second Saturdays 4:00, Downtown Weston.

Stroll into unique gift shops and galleries for late night shopping and in-store specials.

WestonMO.com irish Family Fun Night 5:00, CW Parker Carousel Museum. Ride the carousel and play games! Buy a $6 hotdog combo and get free carousel rides. 913.682.1331

13 Sunday DayLiGHT SaViNG TiME Farmers Market 7:00, the City Market. The market offers a variety of fresh produce, meat, specialty groceries, flowers and gift items.

TheCityMarket.org

Day in the Life: Soldiers of the War 10:00, National World War I Museum.

Living history volunteers share stories and make history come to life!

TheWorldWar.org art + family = FUN 1:00, Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Join us every Saturday and Sunday for free activities for all ages!

816.751.1278 St Patrick’s Day Parade 1:00, Downtown Shawnee. Cheer for all the great parade entries and enjoy the variety of activities.

CityOfShawnee.org irishpalooza 2:00 Martin City Business District.

Enjoy a St Patrick’s Day festival and parade in Martin City! Irishpalooza.com

14 Monday Gym for Me 9:00, Lenexa Community Center.

Preschool kids can play with others while running, riding and bouncing during open play. $1. 913.477.7100

Story Time for Toddlers 9:30, MCPL (North Oak). Enjoy a fun and interactive story time just for toddlers and their caregivers. Free.

816.436.4385 animal Tales & Trails Thru May 1, Crown Center, Level 1. Enter an interactive habitat where children learn about interesting creatures. CrownCenter.com all you Can Play Day 10:00, Cool Crest. For only $10, enjoy unlimited mini golf, two go-kart rides and 10 arcade tokens.

CoolCrest.com

WE HOPE YOU WILL JOIN US! EASTER SERVICES, MARCH 27 Overland Park, KS · 6:30*, 8:00, 9:15, and 11:00 a.m.

Kansas City, MO · 6:30*, 9:15, and 11:00 a.m. *Outdoor Sunrise Services

BEFORE EASTER TAKE PART IN THIS SPECIAL FAMILY ACTIVITY: Follow in Jesus’ footsteps, learning more about his life, death, and the empty tomb.

Experience the Road to Resurrection at our Overland Park Campus Saturday, March 26.

Reserved tours beginning at 5:00 p.m.

DETAILS AT EASTER.COLONIALKC.ORG Colonial Presbyterian Church, EPC Encounter God · Grow With Others · Impact People

Overland Park, KS 12501 W. 137th St., OPKS Sundays 8:00, 9:15, 10:45 a.m.

Kansas City, MO 9500 Wornall Road, KCMO Sundays 10:45 a.m.

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Spring Fling Fun 10:30, Ernie Miller Nature Center. Learn about animals that hunt! Each program throughout the week will include live animals. $3. 913.764.7759 STEM Camps Today & tomorrow, Sylvan (Shawnee and OP). Half-day camps on STEM topics over spring break! 913.681.1141 Home Tweet Home1:00, Overland Park Arboretum. Build your own wren house designed for the suburban yard. Ages 8+.

OPABG.org

15 Tuesday Da Vinci: The Exhibition Thru May 1, Union Station. Explore Leonardo da Vinci’s genius and experience his creations. UnionStation.org Tomás and the Library Lady 9:45 & 11:45, the Coterie. Tomás visits the library. He discovers worlds filled with dinosaurs and tigers and makes a great new friend. TheCoterie.org Visit Legoland 10:00, Legoland Discovery Center. Spend the day at Legoland and visit the new Ninjago Training Camp.

LegolandDiscoveryCenter.com Creative Story Time 11:00, Ceramic Café.

Read a book and then paint a ceramic item that goes along with the story. Finish with a snack. $9.50. CeramicCafeKC.com Tots on Tuesday 11:00, Kemper Museum.

Bring in your preschooler for a fun and fashionable get-together every third Tuesday.

816.753.5784

16 Wednesday Superhero Day 9:00, Integrity Gymnastics.

Half- or full-day camp each day of spring break. Today’s activities include designing your own superhero mask and cape.

IntegrityOP.com Milo’s Birthday 10:00, Kansas City Zoo. It’s Milo’s first birthday. Join us at the chimpanzee exhibit for his birthday party!

KansasCityZoo.org KCPT Kids Writers Contest Thru April 15.

Calling all young authors and illustrators!

Kindergarten through third-graders are invited to submit their stories. KCPT.org Power Hour 1:00, Little Monkey Bizness.

Arrive between 1:00 and 3:00 on Mondays and Wednesdays and admission is just $5 plus tax! 913.631.7000

Sunda y, April 3 EXTENDED HOURS

10 a.m.–4 p.m.

45th & Oak | nelson-atkins.org

Passport to India_KCParentAd_FNL.indd 1

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march by the numbers

28

Date in 1853 when Kansas City was officially incorporated in Missouri and named the City of Kansas.

3

Date in 1931 when the Star Spangled Banner officially became the National Anthem.

70

Quarts of popcorn eaten by the average American annually.

America’s love of popcorn is celebrated on the second Thursday of March.

44

On March 17, Kansas Citians will celebrate the 44th annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade downtown.

224 Average hours of sunshine in March in Kansas City.

5

The number of times all the jelly beans, the favorite Easter candy, eaten in one year could circle the earth.

20

The birthday of Fred Rogers, the beloved host of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.

3.14

March 14 is Pi Day. Look for freebies and deals at Whole Foods, Starbucks, Pizza Hut and other restaurants in celebration of every mathematician’s favorite holiday.

What’s for Dinner? 3:30, Burr Oak Woods.

Watch every Wednesday and Sunday as the captive amphibians, fish and turtles enjoy their feast. 816.228.3766

Kids Night Out 5:30, Olathe Family YMCA. Children ages 3-12 will enjoy a night of fun while parents enjoy the evening out on the town. KansasCityYMCA.org

Naturally Dyed Eggs 1:00, Powell Gardens.

Stop by this display to discover the lost art of coloring eggs with natural dyes.

PowellGardens.org

17 Thursday

19 Saturday

St Patrick’s Day

All for the Children 8:00, Metropolitan Community College (Blue River). A 5K run/ walk, Easter egg hunt, self-defense for kids, entertainment and more. Free. 816.604.6635

African Americans in the West 1:00, Nat’l Frontier Trails Museum. Using a special brochure, learn about African Americans in the West. 816.325.7575

Sensory Time 9:00, Johnson County Museum.

Kidscape can be loud; this special time is for kids with sensory integration and processing needs. 913.715.2575 Preschool Bowling 10:00, Mission Bowl (Olathe). Receive one game of bowling, shoes, ball and a soft drink for only $3.

MissionBowl.com St Patrick’s Day Parade 11:00. The parade has become Kansas City’s largest singleday civic event, as well as one of the largest St Patrick’s Day parades in the nation.

KCIrishParade.com Homeschool Lunch Bunch Noon, Lackman Library. Bring your lunch and meet fellow homeschool families. JoCoLibrary.org St Patrick’s Day Parade 1:00, South Park (Lawrence). A fun, old-fashioned St Patrick’s Day parade. LawrenceStPatricksDayParade.com

18 Friday The Stinky Cheese Man 10:00 & Noon, Paul Mesner Studio. This fairytale adventure is loads of fun for all ages! PaulMesnerPuppets.org GeoKids 10:00, Overland Park Arboretum. Kids take a treasure hunt for prizes, with educational stops along the way. Ages 7 to 11, must pre-reg at OPABG.org.

Underwater Egg Hunt 8:45, Gladstone Community Center. Enjoy an egg hunt in water and playtime in the pool. Must pre-reg at 816.423.4200.

Easter for Kids 9:00, Mt Olive Lutheran (Overland Park). An Easter celebration that includes games, crafts, story time and singing.

Must pre-reg at MTOlivesWELS.com.

Superhero Weekend Today & tomorrow, Kansas City Zoo. Meet your favorite superheroes: Captain America, Iron Man, Spider-Man and Thor! KansasCityZoo.org Eggstravaganza 10:00, Macken Park Festival Shelter. Easter egg hunts, pictures with the Easter Bunny and carnival games. Free. NKC.org

Easter Egg Hunt 1:00, 10th Avenue Park (Leavenworth). Games, activities, petting zoo, bounce house, food vendors and more.

VisitLeavenworthKS.com Full Moon Hike 7:30, George Owens Nature Park. Enjoy a guided hike through the park during the Crow Moon (rises at 4:10). Must prereg at 816.325.7115.

Ballet Hispanico 8:00, Carlsen Center (JCCC).

Enjoy a contemporary dance program that reflects the ever-changing diversity of Latino cultures. JCCC.edu/theseries

20 Sunday

Egg Hunt 10:00, Church of the Resurrection Leawood. Enjoy an egg hunt, moon walks, pics with the Easter Bunny, petting zoo, photo booths and more! COR.org

Easter Bunny’s Extreme Egg Hunt 11:30, Antioch Park. A traditional egg hunt taken to the extreme! Find prize-filled eggs using a GPS. Pre-reg at JCPRD.com.

Big Bunny Bash 10:00, Liberty Hospital. Bring your camera and snap some photos with the Easter Bunny and hunt for 15,000 candy-filled eggs. CI.Liberty.MO.US

Pedal to the Metal Thru Aug 28, National Museum of Toys and Miniatures. Experience America’s obsession with four-wheeled vehicles in this exhibit. 816.235.8000

Easter Eggstravaganza 10:00, Grace Christian Fellowship Church (Shawnee). Games, prizes, Easter egg hunt and lots of candy! GCFC.net

Spring Butterfly Exhibit Thru April 3, Powell Gardens. Blue Morpho butterflies return this spring! Exhibit includes hands-on learning.

PowellGardens.org

Junior Jaunts 10:15, Nelson-Atkins Museum.

Bring Baby in a stroller or carrier and enjoy an adult-focused, baby-friendly mini museum tour.

Nelson-Atkins.org

Kids Spring Jamboree 10:00, Shoal Creek Living History Museum. Easter egg hunt, crafts, field games and bring your own basket.

816.792.2655

Paint Me a Story 10:30, Paint, Glaze & Fire.

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

913.661.2529

Easter Eggstravaganza 10:00, Rotary Park (Blue Springs). Activities include a petting zoo, play structures and face painting. Egg hunt begins at 11:00. BlueSpringsGov.com

Story Time 10:30 & 11:15, Wonderscope. Join us in our ArtWorks Exhibit for story time. This is free with museum admission. Wonderscope.org

Ollie’s Egg Hunt 10:30 & 1:30, Paradise Park.

Paradise Park hosts its annual Easter Eggstravaganza. Hundreds of eggs hidden await to be found! 816.246.5224

Third Friday Art Walk 5:30, Englewood Station Arts District. Tour the art galleries. View live performances and meet artists on the sidewalks in front of shops. EnglewoodStation.com

Eggstravaganza 1:00, Faith Chapel (Overland Park). Games, prizes, food and an Easter egg hunt! FaithChapel.org

The Easter Bunny Visits Today & tomorrow, Crown Center Shops. Meet and have your photo taken with the Easter Bunny. CrownCenter.com

art + family = FUN 1:00, Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Join us every Saturday and Sunday for free activities for all ages! 816.751.1278

21 Monday Da Vinci: The Exhibition Thru May 1, Union Station. Explore Leonardo da Vinci’s genius and experience his creations. UnionStation.org Mt Gilead Monday 10:00, Mt Gilead School.

A historic interpretation of a particular theme plus a craft project and games related to that theme. $10. 816.736.8500 Toddler Takeover 10:00, Kansas City North Community Center. Bring your little ones under 4 to run and play in the gym. $1. 816.784.6100 kcparent.com march 2016

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Easter Egg Hunts Visit the online calendar at KCParent.com, as well as this calendar, for TONS of fun egg hunts!

Power Hour 1:00, Little Monkey Bizness.

Arrive between 1:00 and 3:00 on Mondays and Wednesdays and admission is just $5 plus tax!

913.631.7000

22 Tuesday Purchase Tickets for Lego KidsFest May 13-15, Kansas City Convention Center. The Lego KidsFest comes to Kansas City this spring. Get your tickets now! LegoKidsFest.com Toddle Time 9:00, Matt Ross Community Center. Open playtime with an array of toys, including blocks, balls and puzzles. $1-$2.

913.895.6350 Coffee Playground 10:00, OP First Assembly of God. Free play in the gym for kids 5 and under.

Inflatables, scooters, balls and other toys!

OverlandParkMOPS.com Creative Story Time 11:00, Ceramic Café. Read a book and then paint a ceramic item that goes along with the story. Finish with a snack. $9.50.

CeramicCafeKC.com

23 Wednesday Where the Wild Things Are 10:00 & Noon, the Coterie. A journey to remember in an acclaimed interactive adaptation of Maurice Sendak’s beloved classic. TheCoterie.org The Stinky Cheese Man 10:00, Paul Mesner Studio. This fairytale adventure is loads of fun for all ages! PaulMesnerPuppets.org Animal Tales Story Time 10:30, Ernie Miller.

Enjoy stories, songs and a visit from a special animal friend. $2/person. 913.764.7759 Meet a Seeing Eye Dog 2:00, MCPL (North Oak). Find out about how these amazing and helpful canines are selected and trained. Ages 6+. Pre-reg at MYMCPL.org.

24 Thursday JBF Consignment Sale Thru March 26, Overland Park Convention Center. Shop for clothing, toys, gear and more—and save big money! JBFSale.com

Toddler Time 9:30, Blue Springs Fieldhouse.

Kids can play on slides, scooters and more. We set up the equipment, and the kids have the fun! $2-$3. BlueSpringsGov.com Open Gym 9:00, Indian Creek Community Church (Olathe). A time for kids 6 and under to play, run, kick, ride and jump. Free.

IndianCreek.org Preschool Bowling 10:00, Mission Bowl (Olathe).

Receive one game of bowling, shoes, ball and a soft drink for only $3. MissionBowl.com

best kite flying parks in kansas city Spring is an excellent time for kite flying in Kansas City!

Choose your favorite park with wide open spaces, watch for power lines and go fly kites! This is your Kansas City guide to great kite flying parks!

Great Kite Flying Parks in Missouri:

• Arborwalk Park: 1301 SW Arbor Park Dr., Lee’s Summit • Belton Community Center Park: 16400 S. Mullen Rd., Belton • Brookside Park: 58th St., between Grand & Oak, Kansas City • Canterbury Park: 501 SE Blackwell Rd., Lee’s Summit • Fleming Park: 228067 Woods Chapel Rd., Blue Springs • Legacy Park: 1201-1501 NE Legacy Park Dr., Lee’s Summit • Longview Lake Park Shelter #11: 470 Hwy. & Raytown Rd., Kansas City (Take Raytown Rd. south to Shelter 11).

• Loose Park: 51st Ter. & Wornall, Kansas City • Lowenstein Park: 1901 NW Lowenstein Dr., Lee’s Summit • Nelson-Atkins Museum Lawn: 4525 Oak, Kansas City • Ruth Stockdale Park: George Raines Rd. & Hwy. 210, Liberty • Smith’s Fork Park at Smithville Lake: 1601 DD Hwy., Smithville • Swope Park: Meyer Blvd. & Swope Pkwy., Kansas City • Tiffany Springs Park: N. Hwy. & Tiffany Springs Park Rd., Platte City

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Great Kite Flying Parks in Kansas:

• Black Bob Park: 14500 W. 151st St., Olathe • Black Hoof Park at Lake Lenexa: 9054 Monticello Rd., Lenexa

Frontier Park: 15501 W. Indian Creek Pkwy., Olathe • • Garrett Park: 47th St. & Monticello Rd., Shawnee • Kill Creek Park: 33460 W. 95th St., De Soto • Leawood Park: 10601 Lee Blvd., Leawood • Heritage Park Shelter #1: 160th & Pflumm, Olathe • Mill Creek Park: 4731 Wilder Road, near the intersection at Holiday Dr., Shawnee • Shawnee Mission Park: 79th St. & Renner Rd., Shawnee

Plan Ahead!

Flights of Fancy Saturday, April 16, 10:00-5:00, at Metropolitan Community College (Kitefest.mcckc.edu/).

Enjoy one of the largest kite festivals in the Midwest featuring the Kansas City Kite Club. Watch mega kites, stunt kites, power kites, and enjoy a candy drop for the kids. Kids can make their own kites while enjoying face painting and balloon artists. Pack your picnic, bring your own kites and enjoy a day on the lawn at Longview Community College flying kites.

Open Gym Noon, Integrity Gymnastics.

A great time to practice, get familiar with the gym and for kids to release energy. $6.

IntegrityOP.com

25 Friday Fish Friday Tales 9:30, Olathe Community Center. Enjoy a morning of stories, song and play. Then stay for a special open swim for just $7. 913.971.8563 Free Play Cedar Ridge Christian Church. Daily free play for young children while parents enjoy a coffee drink. 913.393.3000 Fourth Friday Art Walk 5:00, Downtown Lee’s Summit. Fourth Friday art walks are packed with a variety of fun activities.

DowntownLS.org Kids Night Out 6:30, Paint, Glaze & Fire.

For only $25 kids can enjoy a great time that includes pizza, painting and pottery.

913.661.2529 Major League Improv 7:30, ComedyCity.

A comedy sporting event with everything decided upon by the audience. $9-$13.

816.842.2744

26 Saturday Breakfast with the Easter Bunny 9:00, Powell Gardens. Join the Easter Bunny for a morning of fun at Powell Gardens! PowellGardens.org Kids in the Kitchen 9:30, Jo Co K-State Research and Extension. Join us to learn how to bake! Class also covers food safety and basic cooking skills. $10. 913.715.7000 Species Spotlight 10:00, Kansas City Zoo. On the fourth Saturday of each month, the zoo shines a spotlight on an amazing animal. Today’s animals: camels and llamas.

KansasCityZoo.org Easter Eggstravaganza 10:00, Union Station.

Bring the entire family to Science City for a morning jam-packed full of Easter fun!

UnionStation.org Art Class 10:00, Nerman Museum. Learn about Mexican pottery and create your own miniature pot with coils and shapes. NermanMuseum.org Downtown Bunny Hop 10:00, Downtown Lee’s Summit. Join the Easter Bunny in a parade! After the parade, visit with the bunny.

DownTownLS.org

Brunch with the Bunny 10:00, Irene B French Community Center. Crafts, face painting, eggciting games and a light breakfast.

Merriam.org Easter Festival 10:00, Memorial Park (Raymore). Egg hunt, a cupcake walk, face painting and other activities! Raymore.com Read to a Dog 10:30, Antioch Library. Kids can practice their reading skills with a certified (and well-behaved) therapy dog.

JoCoLibrary.org Journey to the Cross 1:00, Blue Ridge Bible Church. This family program invites children and adults to walk the path that Jesus walked.

Free. BlueRidgeBible.org Bluebird Box Workshop 2:00, Martha LaFite Nature Sanctuary. Help the Eastern bluebird by making an easy-to-assemble bluebird nesting box. Pre-reg at 816.781.8598.

Road to Resurrection 5:00, Colonial Presbyterian Church (Overland Park). Follow in Jesus’ footsteps and learn about his life and death. Easter.ColonialKC.org

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27 Sunday

All You Can Play Day 10:00, Cool Crest. For only $10, enjoy unlimited mini golf, two go-kart rides and 10 arcade tokens. CoolCrest.com

Easter Sunday Easter Sunrise Service 6:30, Johnson Farms.

Everyone is invited to come and ponder the miracle of the empty tomb and hear the Good News. JohnsonFarms.net Easter Brunch 11:00, Nelson-Atkins. A Kansas City tradition that combines elegant food with priceless art. Enjoy live music. Make reservations early at Nelson-Atkins.org.

28 Monday Moms FREE Monday 9:30, Paradise Park. Moms are free at the Children’s EduTainment Center with a paid child’s admission. 816.246.5224 Mommy and Me Bumper Bowling 9:30, Summit Lanes. Bumper bowling for moms and tots. $3/ea includes game, shoe rental and drink. 816.524.3322 Toddler Takeover 10:00, Kansas City North Community Center. Bring your little ones under 4 to run and play in the gym. $1. 816.784.6100

29 Tuesday Coffee Playground 10:00, OP First Assembly of God. Free play in the gym for kids 5 and under. Inflatables, scooters, balls and other toys!

OverlandParkMOPS.com Toddler Tuesdays 10:00, Sea Life Aquarium.

Tickets are just $14 for one toddler (0-4) and one adult! VisitSeaLife.com Creative Story Time 11:00, Ceramic Café. Read a book and then paint a ceramic item that goes along with the story. Finish with a snack. $9.50.

CeramicCafeKC.com

30 Wednesday

Power Hour 1:00, Little Monkey Bizness.

Arrive between 1:00 and 3:00 on Mondays and Wednesdays and admission is just $5 plus tax!

913.631.7000

31 Thursday Purchase Tickets for Lego KidsFest May 1315, Kansas City Convention Center. The Lego KidsFest comes to Kansas City this spring. Get your tickets now! LegoKidsFest.com Baby Story Time 9:30, Blue Valley Library.

A lap-sit program of songs, rhymes and movement for the very young. Birth thru 24 months. JoCoLibrary.org Preschool Bowling 10:00, Mission Bowl (Olathe). Receive one game of bowling, shoes, ball and a soft drink for only $3.

MissionBowl.com

Stereotypes to Civil Rights Thru Aug 21, National Museum of Toys and Miniatures.

Explore stereotypes of people of African descent through paper dolls. 816.235.8000

Where the Wild Things Are 10:00 & Noon, the Coterie. A journey to remember in an acclaimed interactive adaptation of Maurice Sendak’s beloved classic. TheCoterie.org

Nano Days 10:00, Science City. Come for this nationwide festival focused on nano-scale science and engineering. UnionStation.org

Spring Butterfly Exhibit Thru April 3, Powell Gardens. Blue Morpho butterflies return plus enjoy hands-on learning. PowellGardens.org

HEALTHY YARDS E X P O

StoneLion Puppet Theatre Free Show

The Little Red Hen’s Garden

April 2

Shawnee Civic Centre

10 & 11:30 am

Get the dirt on growing GREEN

FREE | 9am – 2pm Saturday, April 2

Shawnee Civic Centre 13817 Johnson Drive, Shawnee, Kansas sponsored by

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An earth-friendly lawn and garden event

Come early and get free tree seedlings and native plants (supplies limited)

johnson.k-state.edu | 913.715.7000

2016

DO YOU HAVE A STORY TO TELL? Young authors and illustrators in K - 3rd grade are

invited to submit their stories to KCPT’s 2016 PBS Kids Writer s Contest!

Entries will be judged on creativity, story structure, and illustrations. For more information and full conte st guidelines, visit kcpt.org/write. Contest ends April 15, 2016.

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“Ballet Hispanico shows what it is to be Latino in JOHNSON COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE

the modern world.”

– Financial Times

2015-2016 PERFORMING ARTS SERIES

25 TH

ANNIVERSARY SEASON

BALLET HISPANICO 8 P.M., SATURDAY, MARCH 19 Contemporary dance that reflects ever-changing diversity of Latino cultures. Led by Artistic Director Eduardo Vilaro, the Company’s multifaceted performances have featured beloved master works by Nacho Duato, cutting-edge premieres by Cayetano Soto and Annabelle Lopez Ochoa.

MORE THAN

25

jccc.edu/TheSeries | 913-469-4445 NO ONLINE FEES | FREE PARKING | WINE & BEER AVAILABLE

PERFORMANCES

Explore

Kansas City Zoo

March 12

Zootastik Learning Fest — Migratory Bird Day

March 16, 19, 20

Milo’s Birthday Party

March 19

Cheetah Run

March 19 & 20

Superhero Weekend

March 26 & 27

Species Spotlight — Camels and Llamas

April 2

Royals Day at the Zoo

April 9

Party for the Planet Curious George visits the Zoo

April 10

Party for the Planet

Check online for more Zoomazing experiences! kansascityzoo.org

Always a New Adventure! kansascityzoo.org | 816.595.1234 | Open Daily The Kansas City Zoo, a private, non-profit organization is operated in agreement with the Kansas City, MO Board of Parks and Recreation Commissioners, partially funded by the Zoological District in Jackson and Clay Counties in MO, and is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.

BEST

CAMP

EVER! BEST. SUMMER. EVER.

Y SUMMER DAY CAMPS offer adventures for kids ages 3 through 12, our camps include: • A wide variety of camp experiences: field trips, swimming, arts and more!

• Specialties, from sports and engineering to community service.

• Options for an outdoor overnight traditional camp experience for older kids.

Locations throughout the Kansas City metro in the following school districts: Blue Valley, Center, Olathe, Platte County, Shawnee Mission and Spring Hill. As well as our North Kansas City Y, Riverside Community Center and Camp Naish location in Bonner Springs.

IS YOUR TEEN LOOKING FOR A SUMMER EXPERIENCE? Teens ages 12-15 have options: • Adventure Camp offers outdoor challenges and activities.

• Youth Volunteer Corps Summer of Service, allows teens to get hands on experiences to better our community.

Check out ALL of our offerings and register today!

OUR MISSION The YMCA of Greater Kansas City, founded on Christian principles, is a charitable organization with an inclusive environment committed to enriching the quality of family, spiritual, social, mental and physical well-being.

A UNITED WAY AGENCY

YMCASummerFun.org