KC Parent magazine June 2022

FREE | June 2022 | KCParent.com | Since 1985

Swing into Summer!

Dandy Dads Festivals & Fairs Picking the Right Sport

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JUNE

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IN EVERY ISSUE

SUMMER FUN GUIDE, PG. 40-51

28

12

Date Night

14

Dear Teachers

16

5 Things

18

Ask the Experts

19

Word from Dad

41

Tasty Treats

24

Party Guide

28

Camp Guide

40

Summer Fun Guide

52

Calendar of Events

50

Dandy Dads

Camp Guide

Contest Winners

Ways to celebrate Dad

Great ideas for lastminute summer camps.

See the winners from the

on his special day.

Craft Corner

SPECIAL SECTIONS

FEATURES

22

10

Parade of Hearts photos.

Our cover features Charleigh and Channing from Prairie Village.

Photo by Melissa Rieke Photography.

MelissaRiekePhotography.com FREE | June 2022 | KCParent.com | Since 1985

Swing into Summer!

ON THE COVER Dandy Dads Picking the Right Sport Summer Fun Guide Festival & Fairs

22 38 40 45

Dandy Dads Festivals & Fairs Picking the Right Sport

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kcparent.com june 2022

Friday, August 26

Tickets on Sale Now! Limited tickets available.

Early bird discount through July 1!

www.KansasCityZoo.org/Jazzoo

EDITOR’SLETTER JUNE 2022

KC PARENT IS GIVING AWAY A

SUNDAY FUNDAY FAMILY PRIZE PACK TO EVERY SUNDAY MONARCHS GAME! For details and to enter, head to KCParent.com.

Happy summer, Kansas City!

Margaret Sarver, Editor

Publisher Michael Gimotty Michael@KCParent.com 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 Darrell@KCParent.com Digital Media Manager Kristina Light Kristina@KCParent.com Copy Editor Susan Crainshaw Susan@KCParent.com Summer Intern Tori Sarver Distribution To be added to our distribution list, e-mail Distribution@KCParent.com

LOCAL CONTENT

Local Contributing Writers Bill Bartlett (Belton), Hannah Berry (Kansas City), Janelle Cumro-Sultzer (Manhattan), Judy Goppert (Lee’s Summit), Gina Klein (Kansas City), Kristina Light (Kansas City), Sarah Lyons (Olathe), Emily Morrison (Independence) Mailing Address 11936 W. 119th #335, Overland Park, KS 66213 913.782.3238 phone • 913.681.5139 fax OUR PRODUCTS FREE | June 2022 | KCParent.com | Since 1985

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Dandy Dads Festivals & Fairs Picking the Right Sport

FOODIE ADVENTURES DISH UP FUN

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W

elcome, June! You might be tired of my saying it, but summer is my favorite time of the year! I love almost everything about this season— from the unrushed, unscheduled no-school days to the warm temps to the longer days and plethora of events, there’s nothing quite like it! And to this list I get to add “having my daughter home from college” as one of my most favorite parts of the summer of ’22!

We have plans for a vacation and are looking forward to several concerts, as well as attending local festivals and events. If you’re in need of some ideas for summer fun, then you have come to the right place! From a list of ideas that will keep you busy all summer long to fun crafts and sweet treats, our Summer Guide has you covered, starting on pg. 40.

And, in case you still need a last-minute camp for your kids, check out the Summer Camp Guide on pg. 28.

In addition to summer, June also brings us Father’s Day! Like I, my Dad loved summer and warm temps, so I know I get my love for it honestly! One cherished childhood memory is of my dad making chocolate shakes for us on summer evenings. He called them “Pop’s Chocolate Malts” and joked he was going to open up a chocolate malt shop and sell only, you guessed it, chocolate malts. His theory was do one thing and do it well! For great ways to celebrate Dad on his special day, head to pg. 22.

Thanks to everyone who entered the Parade of Hearts photo contest! We had tons of entries, and you’ll find the winning photos displayed on pgs. 50-51. Stay tuned to KCParent.com all summer long for great contests and giveaways.

Facebook.com/KansasCityParent Pinterest.com/KCParent @KCParent

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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, 11936 W. 119th #335, Overland Park, KS 66213

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kcparent.com june 2022

Keeping kids as healthy as possible is about more than ER visits and diagnosing rare diseases.

We want to be there for your parenting questions, from the breakfast table to your biggest fears. Because when we partner together, we can clear new paths for every child’s potential.

Learn more at childrensmercy.org/imagine.

Imagine the Potential

CRAFTCORNER

Supplies:

• Blank paper • Crayons and/or markers

out of this world father's day cards

N

eed a cute card idea for a dad in your life? Check out this simple and super cute card sure to be a hit!

Step one: Freehand draw a rocket ship. How unique can your child make his? If your child is younger, use a coloring sheet or print a rocket picture from online.

Step two: Color rocket, cut out and set aside.

Step three: Trace child’s handprint onto the paper. Color orange and yellow flames. Cut out.

Step four: Line up the cut-out handprint with the bottom of the rocket ship. Tape or glue together and then tape or glue to blank paper.

Step five: Add your own special message to Dad for his Father’s Day card and enjoy the stars in Dad’s eyes when he receives this special homemade card!

Janelle Cumro-Sultzer lives in Manhattan, KS, with her husband, two children and two dogs. Janelle is a family mediator and loves to focus on learning through play and getting messy with crafts.

Kids Art Coasters

Sidewalk Chalk Popsicles

Soda Bottle Painted Flowers

For TONS more craft ideas, head to KCParent.com!

10 june 2022

kcparent.com

• Scissors • Child's hand • Tape or glue

ADVERTORIAL

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changes, increased stress in the home,

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any environmental changes in your home

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DATENIGHT

12 june 2022

kcparent.com

CELEBRATE SUMMER WITH A SPECIAL JUNE-THEMED DATE! EAT YOUR VEGGIES DAY June 17 is Eat Your Veggies Day, and one great way to honor that is to pay a visit to Caffetteria, a modern café and marketplace in Prairie Village. I started out with the Goldwater salad, with kale and fennel, among other things. It was truly one of the best salads I’ve ever had, and they have eight other delicious ones to choose from! They also have a great selection of bowls, all with a healthy dose of veggies. My husband ordered the forager paleo bowl that comes with cauliflower rice, broccoli, kale and wild mushrooms—plus steak! In addition to the salad and bowl, we ordered up their veggie pizza topped with tomato, asparagus, red onion, bell pepper, kale, broccoli and roasted garlic. Yum! Caffetteria’s menu also has great sandwiches, soups, build-your-own plates and breakfast dishes, many of which can help you take in more veggies..

DAIRY MONTH June is National Dairy Month, and to celebrate, my husband and I took a tour of Shatto Milk Company, a small, family-owned dairy farm in Osborn, MO. The tour includes a look at their bottling facility, as well as the barn where they milk their cows. They have a herd of 600 cattle on site, with 300 in the milking rotation. For almost 20 years, Shatto has been in the milk processing, bottling and delivering business and with great success.

Two of their flavored milks—chocolate and root beer—have been voted #1 five times by the National Dairy Council. The best part of the tour is when we were given the chance to try milking a cow. It had been on my bucket list (no pun intended) for decades, so I was the first to volunteer. It is trickier than it looks, but it’s definitely a fun and unique experience.

DRIVE-IN MOVIE DAY Drive-In Movie Day is June 6, and Kansas City is lucky enough to have two drive-ins in the area: Twin Drive-In, operated by B&B Theatres and located in Independence, and Boulevard Drive-In in Kansas City, KS. We have been to both locations, and each has its own unique feel. Twin Drive-In opens earlier in the evening and stays open later than Boulevard DriveIn, which is great for me as I prefer earlier showtimes.

They also charge by the carload. Boulevard Drive-In charges per person and has a concession stand with snacks and drinks. Boulevard also has 4K-resolution digital projection, which is akin to a high-end, flat screen TV. Every weekend, Boulevard Drive-In hosts a Swap & Shop, too. So, whether you and your sweetheart want to just see a movie or do a little shopping as well, you have options for supporting your local drive-ins.

Hannah Berry is a freelance writer who lives in the Northland with her husband.

They love to explore Kansas City and try new restaurants and activities.

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

ADVERTORIAL

Q&A DEARTEACHERS

BY PEGGY GISLER AND MARGE EBERTS

TRICKS TO ENCOURAGE SUMMER READING

Local libraries’ summer reading progra ms are a great way to keep yo ur child reading.

Check out KCPa rent.com for info on programs an d events.

QUESTION: With my daughter’s compulsion to be

a week when

on the internet and her mobile phone, my tween just

the entire family

about stopped reading for pleasure during the school

will sit down together

year. How can I motivate her to become a reader once

in the same room and

more? When she was younger, she could scarcely be

read for a half-hour,

seen without her nose in a book. – Not Reading

perhaps right after dinner or some other time when everyone is likely to gravitate toward the electronic

ANSWER: Unfortunately, when the technological

world. And if she has younger siblings, assign her the

world takes over a child’s life and she stops reading for

task of reading books to them instead of your reading

pleasure, she is missing out on a lot of benefits. Reading

to them every night. She might find this to be fun if she

beyond classroom assignments has the advantage

is reading entertaining books to them. Subscriptions to

of building vocabulary, writing, spelling and grammar

age-appropriate magazines can also encourage your

skills. And it is also likely to boost test scores. There

daughter or any tween or teen to read more.

is even some evidence that it helps kids think more clearly and solve problems more effectively.

Today, it is very common for children your

Recently, we talked to children from elementary school to high school about what they will be reading this summer. Most of the older children admitted that

daughter’s age and those who are teens to sharply

they will be doing most of their reading online. This will

reduce the amount of reading they do outside the

include browsing online websites for topics that interest

classroom. You will need to be creative to reawaken

them, and some say they will be taking classes online

her interest in books. You definitely should encourage

to learn new skills. A few said they would actually read

her to read books that are tied to her interests. Other

books—mostly fiction—however, some wanted to read

books that may reignite her desire to read are those

nonfiction, especially history. Genres especially popular

that are parts of series or books that have been made

with middle schoolers and high school students were

into movies.

fantasy, adventure and science fiction books. And,

Though you can try motivating your child to read,

interestingly, we found a second grader who limited his

she still may not willingly put down her mobile phone

reading to reading aloud rhyming books to anyone who

or stop her online activities. You can try doing some of

would listen. Overall, most agreed they actually read

these things. Resume reading to her before bedtime

more in the summer when the pressure of having so

or after supper and discuss what has been read. This

much schoolwork disappears.

can encourage her to complete a book on her own.

Another suggestion is to set aside a definite time twice

14 june 2022

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Do talk to your daughter about what she is looking at online. She may be reading more than you think.

MAKING TRANSITION TO HIGH SCHOOL QUESTION: In the fall, my son will be making the transition from middle school to high school. Are there any things he could do this summer to make this move easier?

– Moving Onward

ANSWER: Your son, like most children, is likely to experience some anxiety about making

You’re an expert on your kids.

We’re experts on mental health.

KVC Hospitals has all the resources you need to ensure your kids’ mental health needs are cared for.

Visit www.kvchospitals.org/resources to learn about common mental health conditions, get practical advice and tips, and so much more from our mental health experts.

this transition. Here are some suggestions that may make this move easier for him: • Attend any orientation sessions to find out what high school will be like. This can also be an opportunity to become acquainted with the layout of the school.

• Observe an online high school class to become familiar with the way high school classes are

KVC Hospitals can help.

(913) 890 – 7468

www.kvchospitals.org

taught.

• Talk to students who have been going to the school he will be attending. They should be able to give him a good picture of what the high school is like.

Little smiles can have a BIG impact!

• Visit our DearTeacher website to look at the list of 100 Words High School Freshmen Should Know in the Skill Builders:

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kcparent.com june 2022

15

FIVETHINGS The Tattooist of Auschwitz

Dutch Bros You know I love a good coffee spot! My younger fell in love with Dutch Bros a few months back and recently took me to try it. Here’s the thing, I’m not a cold coffee drinker, and I have pretty specific things I like in my coffee. Dutch Bros has a very large menu of drinks (coffee and otherwise) but they also are very accommodating if you want to order something that’s not on the menu. When I described what I wanted, they were able to make something just to my liking. They are driveup or walk-up only, with a few locations and more on the way.

DutchBros.com

5

One summer a few years ago, I visited the Pearl Harbor Memorial, and years back when traveling Europe, I toured the Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site. I feel fortunate to have had those experiences to help me learn about WWII. In addition, I’ve done a lot of reading on the subject. I recently read The Tattooist of Auschwitz by Heather Morris and I recommend it as a good way to learn more from the perspective of the man who gave the prisoners at Auschwitz their number tattoos. A powerful story.

THINGS WE

LOVE RIGHT NOW

Compiled by Margaret Sarver

Alligators The zoo always makes for a great summer outing, and this summer make plans to visit the brand-new habitat, Alligator Alley, located near the Discovery Barn and Billy Goats Gruff Yard. It is the home to five female alligators: Gertrude, Lucy, Eudroa, Agnes and Rita. The outside habitat is complete, and construction will continue on the building with plans to be done later this summer. Watch also for animal chats to be added by zoo care specialists so that everyone can learn more about them.

KansasCityZoo.org

Fishing Poles Did you know? In partnership with the Missouri Department of Conservation, select Mid-Continent Public Library branches offer fishing poles and tackle boxes for customers to check out during the spring and summer. Fishing equipment varies by location and must be returned within seven days. Participating MCPL branches include Antioch, Blue Springs South, Smithville and Withers.

How fun is that? Fishing is a great way to spend a summer day!

MyMCPL.org

Summer Watch I like watches and I like to wear different watches to match the outfit, season or occasion. For my birthday, my husband got me a watch because “it had been a while since I got you one.” He knows me well! I was pleasantly surprised by the one he picked out—it’s the perfect summer fun watch, with a great color and a little sparkle!

And, here’s a tip: when you need a new battery for your watch or need to have it sized, check out KC Watch (KCWatch.com).

Great prices and great customer service. Fossil.com

16 june 2022

kcparent.com

Building Great Smiles for Life!

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kcparent.com june 2022

17

ASK THE

EXPERTS Megan Maciel

Ashley Flores, CPDT-KC

KVC KANSAS

GREAT PLAINS SPCA

KVC Kansas provides heart-centered services to children and families through in-home family support, foster care, adoption, behavioral health care and children’s psychiatric hospitals.

913.499.8100, Kansas.KVC.org

Great Plains SPCA is one of the largest no-kill animal shelters in the Kansas City area, serving Johnson County, KS, and Kansas and the surrounding area.

913.831.7722, GreatPlainsSPCA.org

Q

Q

How do I know my home meets the licensing requirements to provide foster care?

My dog has not been around many children, and I am now expecting. How do I prepare my dog for our new baby?

If you are interested in becoming a foster parent, we encourage you to reach out to a recruitment specialist to discuss options. During this process we will evaluate and discuss your home, how many children you are interested in fostering, and what state requirements need to be met.

We can also assist with school and daycare enrollment, community resources for counseling, and where to access medical care for a foster child in your home.

Start refreshing or training your dog on the basics such as “sit,” “wait,” and “no jumping.”

The “leave it” command is also a good one to utilize when your dog and new baby are first getting to know each other. Familiarize your dog with the baby gear and strollers. Take the dog for a walk with the stroller prior to the baby’s arrival and have the dog spend some time in the baby’s room so everything is not new all at once.

Create a safe space where your dog can go if he feels overwhelmed and never leave your baby unsupervised with your dog.

Megan Maciel Director of Recruitment and Communication KVC Kansas

Ashley Flores Great Plains SPCA

ASK THE EXPERTS...If you have a question, send it our way and we’ll ask one of our experts to answer.

Email editor@kcparent.com and put “Ask the Experts” in the subject line.

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

18 june 2022

kcparent.com

WORDFROMDAD

Hammer

and Nails

“Hold the handle near the bottom.”

Dad moved my hand toward the base of the hammer. “You’ll get more leverage that way.”

But I was a preschooler. I didn’t know what leverage was and I wasn’t strong, either. More often than not, I grabbed the handle near the head and bashed away. Regardless of my skill or strength, I wanted to be like my dad, and he used tools all the time.

Filled with restless energy, he spent hours in his basement workshop, even giving menial chores to my brother and me. When I got big enough, he gave me a scrap of wood, a small hammer and a handful of nails. “Just for practice.”

Actually, it was preparation.

When Dad built a speedboat in the basement, Bob and I helped. He drilled countersunk holes, and we filled them with a drop of glue before setting the screws for Dad to tighten.

When my brother and I set up a shade tree mechanic area beside the garage for our bicycles, we learned about wrenches and screwdrivers. Although I didn’t plan it, this was my introduction to the oil and grease I’d learn to dislike once I had to maintain my own cars.

Dad passed on many things to me, but his restless energy wasn’t one of them, and I never had my own workshop.

When my first son was born, he became my shadow and wanted to do everything I did, which meant he “helped” in household maintenance, holding tools, handing me nails and screws or simply watching. One day, when I thought he was old enough, I led him out to the garage and handed him a small board, a handful of tacks and a claw hammer.

“Hold it near the end of the handle.

You’ll get more leverage.”

William R. Bartlett lives in Belton with his family.

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kcparent.com june 2022

19

how to improve your child's

Writing Skills

A

s a writer, I look back on my youth and realize my mother had a lot to do with my love of this activity that has blossomed into my lifelong career. She bought me a diary at a very early age, and I spent hours writing every thought in there. As the middle one of three sisters, I always had something to say about them, what was happening in school and how I hated having to move all the time. My dad was a traveling veterinarian inspector, so we sometimes moved every nine months! Writing became a form of solace for me. And because we lived in Louisiana and the South where it rained a lot, I remember sitting, watching it rain, and reading and writing!

On that note, a great way to foster children’s writing habits is to start young. A crayon can be used to draw picture stories about how they feel, and as they get older, you can supply them with fun notebooks or journals to fill with their words.

Word games are a good idea—and make sure there are no put-downs or teasing if someone doesn’t get the right answer right away. Make things simple. For example, have children write every word that is associated with summer. Sunshine, swimming, baseball, watermelon, Popsicles … give them ideas and let their imaginations soar! Tape these lists on the fridge so kids can add to it! Crossword puzzles are great, too, and little ones will like the “write the word” game, where they search for items and write down the word when they find each item.

Another way to encourage kiddos to write is to write yourself.

Leave notes in special places, such as the lunchbox, the sock drawer, under their pillows or inside the cookie jar, with nice thoughts like, “I love you,” “You knock my socks off,” “Eat your heart out” or “Dream big.” The more creative the better. Your kids will love the surprises! When they see you write, they’ll write. Even something as simple as a grocery list or letter to the teacher, holiday cards or thank you notes. Look for ways to involve your kids in your writing.

20 june 2022

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Regular reading is the stepping-stone to better writing and helps children strengthen their writing skills.

It expands their vocabulary and shows them different ways of using words, so they can use these words in their own writing.

Another fun idea is to experiment with writing materials other than a pen or pencil! Sidewalk chalk on the driveway, finger painting or a wall writing tray are all fun writing activities.

Create a special writing space, such as a corner in your house, devoted exclusively to writing. Be available to help with spelling or proofreading. Keep a journal by your child’s bed with a special pen. When you prioritize writing time, you make it easier for your children to improve their writing skills.

Connect kids’ interests to encourage them. Does your daughter have a favorite book series? Or maybe your son is obsessed with dinosaurs. Whatever their interests, link them to writing. Have your daughter write a new short story about her favorite characters or let your son create a story all about dinosaurs.

Is your child a fan of technology? Use that to advantage by having your young writer create a blog. This activity can help him improve his writing skills by encouraging frequent writing in an appealing, high-tech mode.

By making writing a part of your family’s daily routine, you cultivate an important lifelong skill. Show lots of interest in your children’s writing and stories. Ask questions, celebrate when they bring home a good piece from school and encourage, encourage, encourage!

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

Sources: OxfordLearning.com, VeryWellFamily.com

• They’re best at bear hugs.

• They love adventures.

• They’ll jump into a kiddie pool with you if you’re scared to jump first.

• They’ll go get you a

chocolate shake before bedtime if you ask them to.

• They take you to pick

dandelions at the park.

• They’ll try that first

spoonful of Gerber mashed bananas to make sure it’s yummy.

• They know where all the best snacks are.

• They carry you when you run out of energy.

• They count ice cream as one of the main food groups.

• They’re fun teachers.

Dads Are Dandy!

What makes dads so special?

W

hen I was a baby with acid reflux, my dad said it was the sound of the dishwasher as he carried me through the kitchen that calmed me down. Around the time my little sister was born, he and I went to the park often to feed the ducks. He told me I saw a mama duck with her line of ducklings and said to him, “Look! It’s a daddy duck with his baby ducks!”

When my daughter was born, recovery for me was a bit rough. My husband held her while she slept—in between nursing sessions—for most of our two-night stay at the hospital. She bonded with him immediately. She, too, had reflux, and it was Daddy to the rescue most nights. He probably held her more than I did until we got home and I finally regained my strength.

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When I was growing up, my grandpa made breakfast every morning on the weekends my siblings and I stayed over. He was awake before everyone else. My grandma always joked about how he was a better cook than she was. He always planned activities, meals and snacks that he knew we loved.

My great-grandpa raised my grandma as a single parent. He taught her to fight, to play catch, to be the tough and sassy girl that she was. She told me so many stories of how he was her favorite human. Some of her greatest attributes she got from her dad.

Fathers play an irreplaceable role in our lives. They have our backs and they love us without conditions. Dads make the world go ’round. Good thing there is an entire day dedicated to the ones we call “Dadda.”

Here are just a few reasons why dads are the bee’s knees.

• They love you just the way you are.

• They’re humble.

• They just “get” you.

• They don’t mind if your clothes don’t match every day.

• They’ll accept any bite of food you hand them, no matter how soggy (yuck! But that’s unconditional love!).

• They’ll tell you bedtime stories about princesses with your name.

• They’re ready to fight the boy who broke your heart.

• They will let you paint

their nails every shade of pink.

• They help you with your toughest homework assignment.

• They take you for fun drives.

• They make up silly songs to help you memorize all the names of the U.S. presidents.

• They will scarf down the rest of your dinner plate if you’re too full.

• They don’t hold grudges.

• They will turn the car around and drive

all the way back to that restaurant to grab your favorite toy you forgot.

• They won’t tell

• They’re messy.

• They whistle the Daniel Tiger’s

it gets muddy.

• They will make you

Neighborhood theme song on the way to work.

a big bowl of cereal and chat about your bad day at school.

• Did I mention they don’t mind if your socks don’t match?

• They’ll give you a sip of their Coke.

• They’ll take dance lessons just to be

prepared for your father-daughter dance on your wedding day.

• They teach you how to drive and try to

Mom about the two cupcakes you ate before dinner.

stay calm while doing it.

• They will wear coordinating costumes on

• They’ll let you listen to your favorite song 10 times in a row.

• They’re already planning

• They’ll wash your favorite blanket when

your first trip to

see The Nutcracker ballet.

• They know all the words to “Let It Go.” • They’re magically great at algebra.

Halloween.

• They know every Disney movie by heart.

• They listen to you sing your favorite songs over and over and over again.

• They make the best peanut butter sandwiches.

• They know how to

not take life so seriously sometimes.

Whether you give your dad tickets to a Royals game, a painted picture or even if you spend the whole day picking dandelions in the backyard together, he will soak it in.

He’ll feel so lucky just to be your parent.

That’s the best thing about dads.

Emily Morrison is a freelance writer, former copy editor, full-time mommy and Disney fanatic who lives in Independence with her husband, son, daughter and dog.

The starting point for a healthy smile.

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kcparent.com june 2022

23

PARTYGUIDE

P The Busy Parents’ Guide to Birthday Party Planning

utting together the perfect birthday party for your child can be a fun process, albeit a time-consuming feat—especially if you’re trying to keep up with the Joneses. Sure, Pinterest, parenting blogs and other sites on the Internet will fill you with great birthday ideas, but that alone can overwhelm. So, what’s a busy parent to do to throw an easy, fabulous birthday party for a special little boy or girl? Here are some wonderful tips for planning the event and choosing the perfect decorations, food and activities.

1

Forget the computer. Instead, sit down with your child and brainstorm. What will make the birthday magical for him or her?

Will there be a theme? Where should the party take place? How many friends will be invited? Write everything down and create a schedule for getting it all together.

2

Pick a day. For parents who work during the week, Sunday parties give more time to shop and prepare, but Saturday parties provide more time to clean up afterward.

Where fun

TAKES FLIGHT! With attractions that cater to any level of adventurer, there’s something fun for everyone.

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3

Choose a venue. If you’re a busy parent, consider booking a venue that provides everything, including décor, food and entertainment. Roller-skating and ice-skating parties are always a hit with the older kids, as are rock-climbing walls and trampoline parks. Kids under 5 always appreciate a petting zoo, a local park, bounce house, water park or painting/art studio. If you wish to host an at-home celebration, maybe opt for a pajama party for kids 6 and up. You can hang a projector screen to show your child’s favorite movie! For younger kids, set up a sprinkler and water balloons in the summer months or, if the weather is too chilly, have a pretend sleepover party and have them bring sleeping bags and pillows, then let them watch a movie while snuggled in. Don’t forget the popcorn and snacks!

4 5

Visit www.kansascityzoo.org/birthdays to plan your party today!

Make a list. Include everything you will need for the party from beginning to end and make a list by store. This trick makes for quicker shopping.

Send email or online invites. This cuts time having to purchase invitations and write them out. Sites like Evite and

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25

PARTYGUIDE Facebook make sending invitations easy!

If you prefer paper invites, go for it! Kids usually love getting their own snail mail.

9

Keep decorations easy and simple. Have balloons delivered rather than trying to blow them all up yourself, and instead of running out to the party store, order what you need online. You can find everything from banners and confetti to party favors and tableware in just a few clicks!

Make dessert easy. Who needs a custom or homemade cake when you can run to the nearest grocer and let your kiddo pick out a box of premade cupcakes? If you’re short on time, this is the perfect option, and the kids don’t care whether it’s homemade or not (unless there’s a food allergy). Or, if you have time to whip up a dozen cupcakes, do so, but don’t frost or decorate them. Instead, let the kids have fun decorating their own with icing and sprinkles at the party!

7

10

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6

Entertain with ease. If it’s an at-home party, utilize your own skills and teach kids how to paint, dance or cook. Play games such as Twister or musical chairs. For a sleepover party, buy mini pillows for the kids to have a pillow fight. They can take them home afterward.

Keep food simple. Seriously. For an easy and quick way to feed your party, pick up a veggie/fruit tray, set up a chili or pasta bar, let kids make their own mini pizzas or sandwiches, or ask other parents to bring a side dish and make it a potluck.

Don’t stress over party favors. If it’s a party full of girls, pick up some cosmetic samples at cosmetic counters to put into goodie bags. Or, buy a pinata, hand out cellophane bags, and let the kids collect their own candy. Piece of cake!

Say thank you. It’s always important to thank friends for their company and gifts, so have a plan on how you wish to go about it. Perhaps your child hugs each friend and says, “Thank you,” immediately after he opens the gift they brought. If you prefer thank you cards, purchase some to

send through the mail (be sure your child writes them or at least signs her name), or you may opt to send email thank you’s.

Either way, be sure they come from your child and not you.

Birthday parties don’t have to be stressful or expensive.

If you plan properly and strive for simplicity, your kids still can have just as much fun as they would if you had spent hundreds of dollars!

Kansas City mom and author Gina Klein loves throwing parties for her daughters and involving them in the entire process. It makes it more fun!

The WOW Factor

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Making the Move: EASING the Transition for Kids

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As early as possible, start preparing your children for the move by letting them know where, when and why you are making the move. Let them know you understand this may be upsetting or scary to them, but it is also an exciting and fun adventure you will do together. Give them the opportunity to talk through their feelings and make sure they know they have permission to be sad, angry, excited or scared—sometimes all at the same time!

Maintain routines

Take a tour

Foster friendships

by helping their kids meet new people.

Host a playdate, get involved in sports or other activities, take a plate of cookies to the neighbors and introduce yourself to other families at the neighborhood park.

It can be hard for kids—and parents— to step out of their comfort zone, but making some friends and acquaintances makes you feel much more at home in a new place. Parents should also encourage their children to continue friendships from their previous home as much as possible. Just because there is more distance between friends does not mean the relationship has to end.

Moving is a challenge for both kids and parents, too. Try to set an example for your kids by acknowledging sad feelings while keeping a positive attitude and embracing your new neighborhood.

Explain, too, that though the place you live may change, the important things won’t—your family will be together, and you will always love each other no matter where you live.

When house hunting, try to involve kids as much as possible. This will help them feel a part of the decision. Let them

One of the most positive things about moving is the opportunity to make new friends. Parents can make moving easier

Sarah Lyons is a freelance writer who lives in Olathe with her family.

hether across the country or just across town, moving is a big adjustment for everyone in the family. Children, in particular, can feel overwhelmed and uprooted because they are rarely in control of the decision to change homes, neighborhoods or schools.

Here are some tips to help parents support their kids through the transition.

Talk it over

tour possible homes with you and give their opinions. If this is not possible, let them be a part of the decisions after you have it narrowed down to a few contenders. Give them the chance to pick their bedroom and play spaces. Some kids may enjoy decorating or adding new pieces to their room, while others prefer keeping the familiar things from the previous home.

Once the move is complete, it is important to maintain similar routines as in the previous house, a practice that helps kids feel safer in their new environment.

Parents should also be aware that regression in potty training, behavior and sleep are totally normal for kids to go through when they are experiencing significant transitions in their lives. Try to be consistent and patient while they adjust to their new surroundings.

kcparent.com june 2022

27

Special Advertising Section

songs and even compose original music. See display ad on pg. 34. www.Leawood.BachtoRock.com

Ceramic Café

KC Parent’s

Camp Guide

Bach to Rock Bach to Rock’s unique approach makes it possible for students with no previous musical training to be rocking out with a band in a matter of hours.

Bands and groups are coordinated by

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kcparent.com june 2022

age, grade and/or ability level. B2R teachers transform music instruction from a solitary activity to a joyous and exciting “team sport”. Bands or group ensembles learn a variety of classic rock and current pop

Ceramic Café’s summer program provides instructions on a variety of ceramic art techniques including hand-building with clay, ceramic painting, and glass fusing. WE offer 3-day themed camps for younger kids (5-7 years old) that feature a taste of each artistic medium. Older artists (8 and up) can dive deeper with the focus of their choice.

Daily sessions are longer and each day features a specific medium.

Campers can choose to attend 1, 2 or all 3 days of a session. One day workshops will be added throughout the summer. See display ad on pg. 34. www.CeramicCafeKC.org

Continued on page 30

CAMPGUIDE Church of the Resurrection Save the date now to have your Kindergarten through 5th grade kiddo join us for a week at HERO University where children will experience SuperHERO lessons from the greatest HERO of all–Jesus! Join us across any of our five Resurrection locations as we watch, know, and become…like Jesus!

Registration now open for all. More information at www.COR.org/vbc. See display ad on pg. 35.

The Coterie Theatre School Classes and Performance Camps

Full day camps available for ages 5-17 June 6 - August 18 Monday-Thursday, 8:30am-3:30pm

www.KansasCityZoo.org/day-camps

LEARNING CLUB THEATRE CAMP

FRIDAYS, JUNE 3 – JULY 29 Blessed Sacrament Family Center 2215 Parallel Ave. Kansas City, KS

H

H

ACTING SINGING DANCING LUNCH AND SNACKS

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SPOT S ARE L IMITE D! SIGN UP NOW!

CONTACT: Victoria Barbee, Learning Club (816) 772-4313 VBarbee@LearningClubKCK.org kcparent.com june 2022

Culture House Creative Arts Bring laughter, smiles, excitement, creativity, growth and fun to your child’s summer with dance, theatre, music or visual art classes at The Culture House! All camps, workshops, productions and classes are taught or directed by professionallytrained adults who are masters of their craft! Whether your child is a beginner, has some training or is looking for advanced training, there’s something for everyone at TCH. Sign up today and secure a spot for your child to grow this summer in skill, in confidence and in friendships!

Openings limited! See display ad on pg. 29. 913.393.3141. Enroll online: www.CultureHouse.com

H

SPECIAL PERFORMANCE JULY 30TH!

30

The Coterie offers classes for kids entering Grades K-12 at four sites: The Plaza (Pembroke Hill), Overland Park (Miller-Marley), Liberty (Liberty Community Center), and in Midtown at Crown Center. Led by professional, trained teaching artists, Summer 2022 half-day classes include creative drama, acting, and audition skills; and full-day performance camps for Grades 5-12 will be held at the Plaza and Liberty locations. See display ad on pg. 65. Visit www.TheCoterie.org.

Idea Space KC Summer Program Add STEAM power to your child’s summer! At the Dan & Cassidy Towriss IDEA Space KC, students in grades 3-12 can dive into 3D art & printing, level up their esports game and venture into the world of virtual reality. They’ll invent, create and code—and have a blast learning skills that last a lifetime.

Twelve camps offered June 13-July 30.

Registration now open. See display ad on pg. 28. www.IdeaSpaceKC.org

KC Parks Get ready for 10 weeks of fun at Kansas City, Missouri Parks and Recreation’s Summer Day Camps!

This year, camps include educational enrichment opportunities, crafts, games, art projects, recreational sports and more—all provided in a safe and healthy environment. New in 2022 is an Inclusion Camp option for kids of all abilities. Visit www.KCParks.org for details. See display ad on pg. 32.

SUMMER 2022 JUNE 6 - AUGUST 5 | TODDLER (AGE 2) - 8TH GRADE Weekly Field Trips Themed Camps Before/After Care Lunch Offerings Optional Swim Lessons Fees Start Under $50/Day

OAKHILLDAYSCHOOL.ORG/SUMMER 7019 N CHERRY STREET | GLADSTONE, MO | 64118

KC Watersports Camps are held Monday-Friday from 9:00-3:00. Our passion is teaching people how to enjoy watersports at every level. Whether you’re new to the sport and have never ridden any kind of board before to the advanced rider wanting to learn a new flip or twist our camp will fit every level of rider. Included with camp is instruction from our toplevel coaches, gear, and a light lunch.

Kids bring a positive attitude, swim wear, sunscreen and a towel. See display ad on pg. 34. www.KCWaterSports.com

Kansas City Zoo Make your summer a little wilder with Summer Break Camp. Camp runs June 6 through August 18. Our day camp curriculums are age appropriate and are properly chaperoned at all times.

Activities may include, but are not Continued on page 34 kcparent.com june 2022

31

Packing for Camp

n

Sweatshirt, sweater or jacket

n

Rain coat with hood

n

2 bathing suits & goggles

n

Towels & washcloths

n Good sturdy shoes that cover the whole foot

S

ummer camp can be a lot of fun, especially if you are prepared! Involve your child in the packing process and begin packing several weeks in advance to avoid last minute shopping trips.

Although it will probably take a while, label all items going to camp with your child’s name. Certainly, your child’s camp will send a packing list, but you can expect some of the following essentials to be on it.

What to Pack for Overnight Camp: n

Notebook & pen/pencil

n Pre-addressed and stamped stationery/envelopes n

Flashlight & extra batteries

n

Water bottle or canteen

n

Shorts & long pants

n

Shirts (short & long sleeved)

n

Several pairs of socks

n

Old pair of shoes or sandals

n Personal Items (toothbrush/paste, soap, shampoo, deodorant, cup, medicines) n

Pillow & sleeping bag

n

Disposable camera

n

Insect repellent and sunscreen

n Ziploc bags and/or laundry bags for wet, dirty items n Stuffed animals (for younger campers)

June 6 – August 12, 2022

NEW THIS YEAR! Inclusion Day Camp for kids of all abilities at Marlborough Community Center

Join us for summer camp at one of our KC Parks & Recreation community centers.

7:30 a.m. Ͳ 5:30 p.m. • Monday Ͳ Friday • Ages 6 Ͳ 13 Day Camp: $80/week Hillcrest • Kansas City North • Southeast Tony Aguirre • Westport Roanoke • St. Patrick’s School

KCPARKS.ORG

20% discount if paid in full by May 1. Financial assistance available.

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CAMPGUIDE limited to: educational games, crafts, shows, rides, science experiments, and educational movies. Full day camps are available for ages 5-17, MondayThursday, 8:30-3:30, COST: $260. $234 for FOTZ members. Single day camps also available. See display ad on pg. 30. www.KansasCityZoo.org/day-camps

acting, singing and dance. Lunch and snack provided. The camp runs on Fridays from June 3-July 29 at Blessed Family Sacrament Center. The camp will culminate with a performance on July 30.

Contact Victoria Barbee at 816.772.4313 or at VBarbee@LearningClubKCK.org.

See display ad on pg. 30.

players ages 6 - 17. Regardless of what you choose, you’re sure to learn a lot about thinking independently while working cooperatively. And you’re going to have fun in the process. Enroll online at www.MusicHouseSchool.com/ summer-camps. See display ad on pg. 33.

Learning Club Theatre Camp

Music House

Oakhill Day School

This summer, the Learning Club in partnership with the Kansas Academy of Theatrical Arts, will be hosting an acting camp every Friday starting June 3rd for elementary, middle, and high school students! Students will enjoy

Five days of life-enhancing arts experiences. You can join a band, put on a show, make a music video, try a new instrument, write a song, and much more. Options for absolute beginners through experienced

Every day is a vacation at Oakhill Fully Charged! Our flexible weekly themed day camps for campers ages two years old - Middle School are a high-energy combination of play and creativity!

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kcparent.com june 2022

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

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Kindergarten– 5th Grade

Join us for a week at HERO University where children will experience Super-HERO lessons from the greatest HERO of all – Jesus!

Scan QR code to get notified when registration opens kcparent.com june 2022

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CAMPGUIDE should be through field trips, camp-wide water balloon fights, trips to the pool, and more from our fantastic crew of Fully Charged counselors! Enroll online: www.OakhillDaySchool.org/summer.

See display ad on pg. 31.

Rock Springs Ranch Since 1946, Rock Springs Ranch has been host to generations of young campers. They unplug, explore, play and grow in the heart of the Flint Hills of Kansas, a wondrous place with wide, open spaces and night skies filled with a million stars. Many make friends for life. Open to ages 8-17 and choice of 3- or 6-night adventures with enrichment activities, outdoor fun and expanded youth programming, including a focus on leadership skills.

See display ad on pg. 31. 785.257.3221, www.RockSpringsRanch4HCamp.org

SOAR Special Needs SOAR Special Needs Summer Day Camp is open for all individuals with special needs ages 3 y/o and older. We offer camp in-person from 9:00–4:00 Monday through Friday in Lee’s Summit, Overland Park, and Gladstone. This year our camp theme is SOARing for the Son–Space theme! We cannot wait to enjoy a variety of fun activities including outdoor games, craft, sensory, missions, story time, and more. Register now at www.SOARSpecialNeeds.org. See display ad on pg. 36.

Summer at Barstow Kansas City’s favorite summer camps for kids ages 3-14! Choose from 600+ offerings. Campers love Summer at Barstow’s action-packed adventures in creative arts, athletics, academics and STEAM, plus field trips to the

REGISTER NOW! It’s time for SOAR’s Day Camp!

9am-4pm CST each day July 11-15

at Abundant Life Church in Lee’s Summit, MO

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July 18-22

at Grace Church South Campus in Overland Park, KS

Open for individuals with special needs ages 3 y/o & older www.SOARspecialneeds.org

city’s best attractions. Parents love our experienced instructors, 4:1 camper-tostaff ratio and extended care options.

Summer at Barstow offers camps for every budget, age, interest and schedule. May 23-Aug. 12. View catalog & enroll at www.BarstowSchool.org/ summer. Email summer@barstowschool.org or call 816.277.0445 for more information. See display ad pg. 33.

Tiger Rock Martial Arts Train all summer at Tiger Rock’s Martial Arts Summer Camp. For only $189, you can spend your summer training at our studio. Fee includes summer training uniform and belt and unlimited martial arts lessons. Classes fill up every summer, so register today! 913.829.8818 (Olathe) or 913.851.5050 (Overland Park). See display ad on pg. 35.

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Finding the RIGHT SPORT for Your Child Sports shape children from the moment they pick up a bat or kick a soccer ball.

M

ajor sports franchises and traditions in our community are a major influence on Kansas Citians—even children are introduced at a very young age to football, baseball, soccer, basketball and more. We dress our infants in Kansas City Chiefs onesies and Kansas City Royals booties, and so it begins!

As your children grow and learn, they will give you cues about which sports most attract their attention.

Then, it’s up to you to help nurture a healthy, balanced sports life that will keep your growing athlete in the game for years—even a lifetime.

Choosing a sport for your child is an important decision for any parent.

Some children are more inclined to team sports, and others prefer individual sports. Some body types are better suited to some sports than

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others. And while some children will be more interested in low-impact sports, others will be anxious for a more physically demanding sports opportunity.

The ideal way to discover what makes your kids’ adrenalin start to rush is to expose them to a wide variety of sports experiences.

Watching sports on TV is a good introduction, and talking to them about what they do or don’t like makes the most of viewings. Watch how they react—maybe they will talk about the players or the strategies. They might even tell others about the experience. Kids may gravitate toward friends that play a particular sport. Watch and listen to pick up clues.

Some kids may shine in a team sport, such as football, baseball or basketball where they play a role on

a team. Others will prefer being on a team where their own skills matter most, such as swimming, playing tennis or golf. Or they may simply enjoy individual sports like cycling, gymnastics or running track. Watch them as they participate and zero in on a sport that will work best for each of your children.

Remember to match the sport to your child’s body type, too. We know players who are 4-foot-2 aren’t naturally the greatest at basketball. But pint-sized players may be great at soccer, zipping around the other players. A short, stocky child may be better suited for football, as opposed to the tall lanky kids who play basketball. Once you have narrowed down to a few the sports your kids seem to like, try them out. It’s fine to play soccer in the spring, football in the fall

and volleyball in the winter. As children begin to identify favorites, you can drop the others if needed.

Try to teach children the fundamentals one on one. Play catch and having them field pop flies and grounders in the backyard.

Or, set up cones and practice dribbling a soccer ball in and out of them. This quality time learning and playing together is what kids will remember always. If their sport involves skills you don’t have, try mastering those techniques together.

A sports physical is always a good idea. Discuss the sports plan with the doctor and talk about the physical demands. Children can be injured in sports if they are not quite ready physically or have a limitation they didn’t know about.

Playing a sport requires responsibility and self-discipline, for both you and your children.

When my son played on a traveling baseball team, we emptied his gym bag at least once a week.

This helped keep track of gloves, baseballs and his treasured bat.

We also took advantage of the routine to remind him to at least throw those sweaty clothes in the washer, too!

Most coaches require players to keep their grades up and will remind them to stay on top of school work. Because regular sports practice schedules demand time, it’s a must for families to set aside a certain time each day to do homework. Sports can definitely be a great way to teach that personal responsibility and priority-setting that will benefit kids in all areas of their lives.

On the idea of playing more than one sport, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) notes that children in the United States face a higher risk of overuse injuries when

they specialize in a single sport.

Young athletes should take off three months each year in one-month increments from their main sports to try other sports. For example, if your son is on a traveling baseball team, make sure he also swims, runs track, shoots some hoops and lifts weights.

If your daughter does competitive dance, make sure she is enjoying her life. Introduce singing to the mix to use a different part of her brain. Many young people who dance are also in theater, a great way to meet people and grow their personality.

Members of the National Council of Youth Sports (NCYS) believe children benefit from competing in more than one sport. Diversifying helps them mentally, physically, socially and athletically. Crosstraining introduces skills that can be used in any athletic endeavor.

Multi-sport athletes meet a variety of other children who have other interests, something great for socialization. Playing a variety of sports works various muscle groups, which improves overall fitness and helps prevent injury. Children who have a positive experience playing several sports reap many awards.

We all know that sports teach our children important life lessons, values, compassion and good ethics.

That relationship between sports skills and life skills provides our young athletes with fundamentals they need to succeed both on and off the playing field.

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

TIPS TO THINK ABOUT: n If your child is sedentary,

start with small things.

Getting a skateboard, a bicycle or a trampoline can be a good way to transition a more sedentary child away from books or video games into a more active lifestyle. n Consider some less popular

sports. Organized sports can include things beyond the traditional football, softball, baseball, soccer and basketball. You and your child might want to think about martial arts, cycling, volleyball, cross country, track and field, golf, fencing, lacrosse or ballroom dance. All of these count as sports and will help your child learn important skills. n Don’t try to project your

own interests or your past on your child. Even if you were a star pitcher in your youth, baseball or softball may not be for your child.

Participating in sports is more important than which sport they choose. Pushing your child into a sport just because you excelled will usually backfire.

Sources: Healthline.com, LiveAbout.com, HuffPost.com

kcparent.com june 2022

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fun guide

table of contents 41 tasty treats 42 summer safety 44 best ice cream 45 festivals 46 plan a summer of fun

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kcparent.com june 2022

TASTYTREATS

A COBBLER FULL OF SUMMER FLAVORS (Culinary.net)

T

his summer, get a little wild in the kitchen and make something different. Mix up the seasonal menu now and again by creating out-of-theordinary dishes that are a change-up from

predictable warm-weather favorites.

True, many fruits are at their peak during the summer months; however, eating fruit plain can be boring and bland on a hot day. This summer, when heading to an event like a family reunion or picnic or just dining at home, try making this Oh-So-Berry Cobbler. It’s served warm and is a perfect sweet treat when berries are at their freshest. Everyone will enjoy the summery goodness of strawberries, blackberries, blueberries and a splash of lemon juice topped with a crunchy crumble and served with ice cream.

Next time you’re thinking about grabbing a fruit tray from the supermarket for an upcoming gathering, think again. This cobbler is the perfect addition to any party menu or special occasion.

Find more summer recipes at Culinary.net.

OH-SO-BERRY COBBLER Servings: 8 2 c. strawberries, sliced 2 c. blackberries 2 c. blueberries 2 T. lemon juice 3 T. cornstarch 2 c. flour 1 t. baking powder 1 t. salt 1 c. butter, softened 1 1/2 c. brown sugar 2 t. vanilla extract Nonstick cooking spray Ice cream

Heat oven to 350 F. In large bowl, mix strawberries, blackberries and blueberries, then add lemon juice and cornstarch; mix to combine. Refrigerate 20 minutes.

In medium bowl, whisk flour, baking powder and salt. Set aside.

In bowl of stand mixer, beat butter, brown sugar and vanilla extract on medium speed until blended.

Gradually add flour mixture until crumbles form.

Spray 9-by-13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.

Pour berries into bottom of dish. Top berries with crumbles.

Bake 30-40 minutes, or until lightly browned.

Serve with ice cream.

FOR A LIST OF GREAT PLACES IN KC TO PICK YOUR OWN BERRIES, HEAD TO KCPARENT.COM! kcparent.com june 2022

41

SUMMER SAFETY

S

ummer means sunshine, and although I like to say I’m solarpowered and encourage my family to be outdoors as much as possible, that also means we go through large amounts of sunscreen. Because there is such a variety of products, you can seek out the best options if your child has sensitive skin or unique skin needs. Ask for recommendations and maybe try small amounts from friends to see whether a specific sunscreen will work well for your family. It’s also helpful to set up a routine and rule that sunscreen is put on before children play outside and reapplied after the recommended time frame. Most kids don’t enjoy putting on sunscreen, but the stricter you are about it, the more they will come to expect and accept the

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rule. Also, decide on a designated spot to store and whether you want the kids in a certain place to apply it. When my children were younger, I kept some by our door to the garage. They would sit on our steps leading to the outdoor fun while

we rubbed in the sunscreen, and then we were ready to go out and play. Other ideas could be by your back door, front door, in your car, in your diaper bag, in your stroller, in your summer sports bag and in your swim bag.

fun guide Along with more sun exposure comes being mindful about hydration. Encourage your children to bring a water bottle with them every time they go outside and to drink often. If you’re planning on staying out for the day, consider bringing a portable water canister so water bottles can be refilled easily or a couple water bottles per child. Let kids help pick their water bottles, so they’re more interested in bringing them and drinking from them.

Don’t forget to label them!

Summer also means more swimming and being mindful of water safety.

Swimming lessons are a great idea to help ease some worry around water, so check out lessons at your local community pool or recreation center. Have strict rules about not going near any water without an adult, asking an adult first or always wearing a lifejacket until you’re confident

your child is a safe swimmer. Parents must be mindful of children in water. Brushing up on your own CPR skills can help put your mind at ease as well.

Other summer safety concerns include being stocked up on basic first aid items such as bandages, ice packs, antibiotic cream (our family calls this “feel better cream”) and pain medicine. Summer is the season to be outside running around, playing at playgrounds, riding bikes and scooters, climbing trees and more, but with all those activities comes more risk that someone is going to fall and skin a knee. Being prepared helps. We try to keep our medicine cabinet at home stocked, as well as one in the car, and our stroller one has since moved to our hiking backpack.

Another good rule to put in place?

Always wear a helmet when riding anything with wheels. Our youngest wiped out on his

bike pretty badly a couple of years ago and got a concussion. I really believe the helmet saved him from a far more severe injury.

Having some extra helmets on hand for friends or requesting they bring their own helps make this a rule that everyone has to follow while at your house.

Parenting is a year-round job, but hopefully these suggestions help direct your parenting this summer and help you keep your children safe, so they can have a blast this season of fun and sunshine.

Stephanie Loux is the mother of Layla, 12, Mason, 10, and Slade, 7, and enjoys soaking up the sun (with sunscreen, of course!) with her kids each summer.

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

Great deals on Trampolines, Basketball Goals and Swing Sets!

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kc@backyardspecialists.com | www.backyardspecialists.com www.facebook.com/BackyardSpecialistsKC/ kcparent.com june 2022

43

The Best Ice Cream in K C Whether you favor an old-fashioned ice cream parlor that scoops up classic homemade flavors or a newer, trendy shop dishing out gourmet goodies, Kansas City has your summer frozen treat cravings covered!

Poppy’s Ice Cream Shop and Coffee House | PoppysIceCream.com Poppy’s has that old-fashioned feel with a classic atmosphere and all the warmth and hospitality of the locally owned business that it is. Our favorite thing about Poppy’s is that all the ice cream is made in-house.

Betty Rae’s | BettyRaes.com Serving delicious homemade waffle cones and ice cream sandwiches filled with homemade gourmet flavors, Betty Rae’s is a favorite neighborhood hangout.

The Golden Scoop | TheGoldenScoop.org The Golden Scoop is an ice cream and coffee shop that employs and pays individuals with developmental disabilities.

Shiver’s Ice House | ShiversIceHouse.com This is not an ice cream shop, but rather a Hawaiian shaved ice stand.

In addition to fabulous shaved ice, they serve pineapple Dole Whip and strawberry Dole Whip that you can add to your shaved ice treat!

Sylas & Maddy’s | SylasAndMaddysIceCream.com Sylas and Maddy’s makes fresh homemade ice cream and waffle cones daily, so you’re guaranteed to enjoy the best product they have to serve.

Their delicious flavors have been super popular with local customers since 1997.

Hawaiian Bros | HawaiianBros.com The restaurant serves pineapple, strawberry and mango Dole Whips that will take you back to a tropical (or Disney) vacation! Start off with a delicious Hawaiian plate lunch and top it off with a Dole Whip.

Sweet Thang & Café | SweetThangCafeKC.com The delectable Sweet Thang & Café in Olathe is proud to bring the community delicious premium ice cream, warm sandwiches, baked goods, candy and other sweet treats.

Cookies and Creamery | CottontaleKC.com Cottontale KC presents its new mobile concessions cart and ice cream shop! Featuring signature creamwiches, horchata hot cocoa and other local treats too!! Book the ice cream trike for your event today!

Creative Culture KC | CreativeCultureKC.com Creative Culture serves gourmet milkshakes and encourages creativity through a variety of projects and workshops for all ages and skill levels.

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JUNE

festivals

fun guide

ACROSS KANSAS CITY Food. Art. Drink. June 3-4, Linden Square in Gladstone. Food trucks, 40+ artists, craft beer trail, wine, cocktails, live music ... need we say more?

Enjoy comedy, music and more great live performances, as well.

Art Garden KC Sundays, 11:00-4:00, across from PH Coffee in Historic Pendleton Heights. Weekly art fair showcasing works from multitalented Kansas City artists! Enjoy free kids art activities throughout the event.

More than 60 vendors! Food trucks, live music, open mic, kids activities, art classes and more!

Kids Day at Kenagy June 9, Kenagy Park in Raytown. Stable-T-Farms will bring their petting zoo, and guests also enjoy the ambulance, fire truck and police car for the kids to explore. The Raytown Library staff will be reading stories, and Raytown Connection Point Church will be hosting games for the kids.

Dragon Boat Festival June 11, Brush Creek at the Plaza. Held as a daylong event, the festival features a fleet of boating teams competing on the water, as well as a variety of live cultural performances and delicious food and beverage options.

Future Stages Festival June 12, Kauffman Center for the Performing

Future Stage

s Festival

Arts. The Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts will continue celebrating young, talented Kansas City artists. This community festival showcases hundreds of young performers on the Kauffman Center stages, and guests can enjoy a wide range of diverse performance styles and engaging arts activities.

Make Music Kansas City June 21, various parks and sites in Kansas City, MO. Make Music Kansas City is a live, free musical celebration on June 21, the longest day of the year, with concerts on streets, sidewalks, venues and parks across the city.

Great Lenexa BBQ Battle June 24-25, Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park. The competition attracts cooks from all over the country who compete for the coveted title of Grand Champion of the Great Lenexa BBQ Battle – the Kansas state championship.

Waterfest June 25, historic downtown Excelsior Springs. Waterfest is a free event with more than 90 vendor booths filling Broadway Avenue from end to end and surrounding two main stages with live bands; a beer garden; a Waterfest parade; a classic car, hot rod and truck show; kids activities and so much more.

Water fest

Greenwood Freedom Fest June 25, Hitt Park. Freedom Fest is an outdoor event with live music, local vendors, food trucks, rides and games.

A fireworks display begins at 9:30. Event attendance is free with rides/ games packages available both for preorder and for purchase at the gate. kcparent.com june 2022

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PLAN A OF FUN KC IS COOL ALL THE TIME, BUT ESPECIALLY SUMMERTIME! PLAN FOR A SEASON OF FUN WITH THE FOLLOWING IDEAS!

Participate in hands-on history at the National World War I Museum and Memorial and get a spectacular view of the city atop Liberty Memorial.

Participate in a summer reading program. Local libraries have kicked off their reading programs, and we have the scoop on KCParent.com.

Spend a day at Crown Center—explore Legoland or Sea Life and catch a show at the Coterie.

Overland Park Arboretum

Pick berries, peaches and apples at local u-pick farms. We have a guide on

Attend a summer festival. You can find

Spend the day bird watching at the

them in our guide on KCParent.com.

Overland Park Arboretum.

Visit alligators, stingrays, polar bears,

Get lost in the glass labyrinth on the lawn

kangaroos, tigers, penguins and giraffes

of the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art.

at the Kansas City Zoo. Stop and smell the roses at Loose Park.

Ride the Mamba at Worlds of Fun and try all seven world-class roller coasters. Then,

Attend a Monarchs baseball game!

make waves at Oceans of Fun—all for the price of one ticket!

Challenge the kids to a game of laser tag at America’s Incredible Pizza. Scan

Jump at Urban Air indoor trampoline

the coupon on pg. 68 for 500 bonus

park in Overland Park or Lenexa.

tickets!

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kcparent.com june 2022

KCParent.com.

fun guide Tour the homes of KC’s famous residents at the Alexander Majors House, Wornall House, Vaile Mansion, BinghamWaggoner Estate and Truman Home.

Go on an adventure hunting for treasure at new places with geocaching.

Rent a pedal boat at Shawnee Mission Lake or Lake Jacomo.

Learn about Missouri’s real discovered treasure at the Arabia Steamboat Museum.

Johnson County Museum Visit the Johnson County Museum

Watch a show and make your own

and play at KidScape, a child-sized

puppet at the Puppetry Arts Institute.

village.

Take a tour of the Roasterie and learn Ride bikes at one of KC’s best bike

about coffee.

Marvel at modern art at the Nerman Museum, where admission is free.

Enjoy homemade waffle cones and delish ice cream at Betty Rae’s.

trails, all listed on KCParent.com.

Create your own custom donut at Go bowling for FREE with

Donutology in Westport.

KidsBowlFree.com!

Step back in time at one of Shawnee Spend a day at the Legends Outlets

Town 1929’s family-friendly summer

and follow the yellow brick road.

events.

Explore one of Kansas City’s best

Join a summer movie club at your local

parks, all in the Going Places guide

movie theater.

on KCParent.com.

Ride the KC Streetcar.

Betty Rae’s Ride the rails with Belton, Grandview and Kansas City Railroad.

Shop at one of KC’s farmers markets. A complete guide is on KCParent.com.

KC Streetcar kcparent.com june 2022

47

Attend a Saturday Night Feeder at Cedar

Stroll through Kauffman Memorial

Cove, where big cats live in Louisburg, KS.

Gardens, a free urban oasis.

Pretend you live in the Wild, Wild West

Celebrate Black American baseball

at Antioch Park.

history at the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum.

Stargaze at Powell Observatory, home to the Ruisinger telescope, one of the

Explore Downtown Kansas City and take

largest telescopes available for public

photos with public art on display.

viewing in a five-state area.

Picnic near a Kansas City area waterfall, Feed the goats at Deanna Rose

all listed on KCParent.com.

Children’s Farmstead.

Get an amazing view of the city from

Go Ape Try the zip line at Go Ape in Swope Park or Zip KC in Bonner Springs.

Play disc golf at Swope Park.

Go camping at one of Missouri’s or

Ride a stagecoach (minimal fee)

the River Observation Tower as you

at Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm.

gaze out over the vast Missouri River.

Discover nature on a local hike.

Visit the National Museum of Toys and Miniatures.

Participate in hands-on science at Science City, catch a planetarium show at Gottlieb

Head to a new park for a picnic or

Planetarium or watch a movie at the

picnic on the lawn of the Nelson-Atkins

Extreme Screen.

Museum of Art.

Kansas’ campgrounds.

Spend a Saturday in the West Bottoms, a perfect excursion to get creative juices flowing as you explore antique shops, boutiques and retailers in KC’s most eclectic shopping district.

Head to Moon Marble in Bonner Springs and watch a marble making demonstration.

Nurture your creative bug at Ceramics Cafe.

Dine al fresco at one of the many restaurants offering patio seating at the Country Club Plaza, Brookside Shopping District, Briarcliff Village, Park Place or Prairiefire.

Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art

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kcparent.com june 2022

fun guide Grab some cash and take the kids on a trash or treasure hunt ... aka garage sale shopping.

Go on a hunt for the best burger in KC. Discover a masterpiece and take a photo with the giant spider at the free Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art. Take a free trip to the Money Museum and leave with a bag of shredded cash.

Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art

Root, root, root for the Royals!

Roller-skate with the family at a

Take a tour of the more than 200

Watch the fish at Bass Pro in Olathe

local skating rink.

fountains that grace Kansas City.

or Independence, the outdoor shop featuring giant fish tanks kids love.

Go old school and catch a movie at

Learn about the Santa Fe Trail at Cave

one of KC’s drive-in theaters.

Springs Nature Center.

Take a family float trip and canoe

Learn new things about nature through a

locally at Legacy Park in Lee’s

class or program at one of KC’s nature

Try something new in KC—use our Kansas

Summit.

centers or gardens.

City calendar for inspiration.

Ride the $1 Ferris Wheel at Scheel’s.

Explore the Central Branch of the

Munch on Topsy’s popcorn and enjoy their homemade lemonade.

Kansas City Library, because any library

Kristina Light will be blogging about

with a parking garage painted with classic

summer fun all season long at

books has to be cool.

KCParent.com.

Central Branch of the Kansas City Library Scheel’s

kcparent.com june 2022

49

Thanks to everyone who submitted photos to the Parade of Hearts photo contest! We had more than 300 entries— stay tuned for more great contests all summer long!

Parade of Hearts Contest Winners

1

3

5 4 50

kcparent.com june 2022

2

fun guide

6

7 9

10 1 1. Miles, Camden, Graham, Sam and Katie at Steamboat Arabia. Photo by Katie Timm 2. Aidan in front of “City of Fountains Pouring out Love” in South Kansas City, MO. Photo by Anna Goodwin

3. Nora, Town Center Plaza. Photo by Ashley Johnston 4. Allison at the Riverfront KC Hive Heart. Photo by Erika Najera 5. Keziah at Prairiefire Museum in Overland Park. Photo by Kevin Keith 6. Solomon, Deacon and Sawyer Belle celebrating Crown Town at Kauffman Stadium.

Photo by Meghann Woodward

7. Dance friends taking a break from dance competition to enjoy the beautiful weather and fun activities at Crown Center (Pictured from left to right: Mia, Mylee, Nia and Amari). Photo by Mystique Ballard

8. Declan, downtown Overland Park. Photo by Cheryl Lewis

8

9. Sundaes are so sweet! Weston, age 4. Photo by Lisa McConnell 10. Christian at Berkeley Riverfront Park. Photo by Lisa Davis kcparent.com june 2022

51

june

FOR EVEN

MORE EVENTS, HEAD TO THE ONLINE CALENDAR AT KCPARENT.COM.

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

Please call to verify event details.

CALENDAR

Time Travelers Program at Shawnee Town 1929

52 june 2022

kcparent.com

listen

enjoy

learn

see

watch

Head to the Sunset Music Fest on select Thursdays at Town Center Plaza. Free summer concert series with tasty eats, cool drinks and kids activities!

TownCenterPlaza.com

Attend the Future Stages Festival 2022 on June 12 at Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts.

Festival showcases hundreds of young performers.

KauffmanCenter.org/ futurestages

The popular Time Travelers program returns June 14 at Shawnee Town 1929.

Step back in time to the 1920s with family activities in this living history program.

ShawneeTown.org

Theatre in the Park (Shawnee) presents Descendants June 17-25. Bring a blanket and enjoy a production of Disney’s Descendants under the stars.

TheatreInThePark.org

On June 18 Monster Jam returns to GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium.

Take the family to the most actionpacked motorsports experience!

MonsterJam.com

1 Wednesday Mom & Me Bumper Bowling 9:30, Summit Lanes. For just $3 per person, you get a game, shoe rental and drink on Mondays and Wednesdays. SummitLanes.com Days Out with Frank and Ella 10:00, Mahaffie.

Enjoy a different history theme each Wednesday and Thursday with plenty of hands-on activities, crafts and a stagecoach ride! Mahaffie.org Alice in Wonderland 10:30, Legacy Park.

Central Missouri Repertory presents Alice in Wonderland. The performance is open and free to public. CityOfLS.net

2 Thursday Storyteller Concert 10:00, Tomahawk Ridge Aquatic Center. Listen along as Priscilla Howe tells magical stories at this free children’s concert. 913.344.8656 Pay for Play 10:00, Backyard Specialists. Plan a playdate for your children and their friends at the amazing showroom! BackyardSpecialists.com Off the Deep End 10:30, MCPL (Woodneath Branch). Stonelion Puppets presents show where various creatures explore the wonder of the oceans. Pre-reg at MyMCPL.org.

Herp Days Noon, George Owens Nature Park. Meet one of the fantastic, cold-blooded creatures—a snake, salamander or turtle.

GeorgeOwensNaturePark.org

Food. Art. Drink. Today & tomorrow, Linden Square. Festival includes food trucks, 40+ artists, live music and entertainment and more!

LindenSquare.info

Old Shawnee Days Thru Sunday, Shawnee Town 1929. Carnival rides, entertainment, food and lots of family fun! Old ShawneeDays.org

Wine Walk for Wildlife 5:00, Kansas City Zoo. Stroll through the zoo, sip wine and enjoy musicians, food trucks and special animal chats.

Ages 21+. KansasCityZoo.org

Story Boutique Benefit Sale Thru Sunday, Story Boutique. Terrific deals on clothing, sale benefits Kansas City Hospice & Palliative Care.

KCHospice.org

3 Friday Downtown Days Festival Thru Sunday, Downtown Lee’s Summit. Festivities include live entertainment, carnival rides, sports zone, festival food and more! DowntownLS.org Man of La Mancha Thru Sunday, City Theater of Independence. Show inspired by Don Quixote and set during the Spanish Inquisition.

CityTheatreOfIndependence.org Festa Italiana Thru Sunday, Zona Rosa.

Festival celebrates the unique celebration of Italian traditions and Italian-American culture.

ZonaRosa.com

First Fridays 7:00, Crossroads Art District. Art galleries, retailers and other participating art venues of the Crossroads Art District showcase their art. KCCrossroads.org

4 Saturday Hospital Hill Run 7:00, Crown Center. Kansas City’s long-standing running tradition.

Choose from the half marathon, 10K or 5K. CrownCenter.com 45th Annual Fishing Derby 8:00, C Lee Kenagy Park (Raytown). The derby is free and open to Raytown residents of all ages.

UnctionMedia.com/rp2019 Breakfast and Blooms 9:00, BinghamWaggoner Estate. Breakfast will be served on the grounds of the estate followed by presentations on gardening. Pre-reg at 816.461.3491.

kcparent.com june 2022

53

KC Monarchs Game Various dates, Legends Field. Bring the family to the ballpark and watch the Monarchs take on their rivals. MonarchsBaseball.com

Discover Fort Osage 9:00, Fort Osage. Event showcases the best of history and cultures through music, storytelling, walking tours and historic crafts. MakeYourDayHere.com

Hy-Vee SummerFest Noon, Memorial Park (Belton). Live music and performances, cornhole tournament, food trucks, games, crafters and fireworks. BeltonParks.org

National Trails Day 10:00, Lakeside Nature Center. Enjoy a guided hike, animal encounters and more. Trail clearing at 9:00.

LakesideNatureCenter.org

Food Truck Frenzy 5:00, Old Town Lenexa.

Sample from some of the metro’s best food trucks and enjoy live music. Lenexa.com

Safety Day 9:00, Deanna Rose Farmstead. Hop aboard a fire truck, slide into a police cruiser and interact with members of emergency services. OPKansas.org Strawberry Festival 9:00, Vaile Mansion.

Strawberry treats, craft and antique vendors, plants for sale and more! VaileMansion.org Fascinating Fireflies 10:00, Anita B Gorman Discovery Center. Explore the secret lives of fireflies, how they communicate and more.

Pre-reg at 816.759.7300.

Farm Fresh History since 1858!

Check out our website and Facebook page for summer fun!

Movie in the Park 6:00, Hitt Park (Greenwood).

Bring lawn chairs and snacks and enjoy an outdoor showing of Sing 2. Concessions available. GreenwoodMO.com Public Viewings 8:00, Powell Observatory.

Bring lawn chairs or blankets to see images from the Ruisinger on a large screen.

ASKC.org/observatories/powell-observatory

5 Sunday Public Tours 11:00, Cedar Cove. Explore Cedar Cove with an experienced guide. See these epic animals and learn about them. Tours start every half-hour. SaveOurSiberians.org

W

WEE

Child Development Center ORKSHOP “Where Your Child is Special”

2 weeks to 12 years ChildAges Development Center 6:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

“Where Your Child Is Special”

Ages 2 weeks to 12 years 6:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

10% OFF infant room for Two Convenient Locations: Child Development nd & enrollment.

MetcalfCenter Ave 127th &year Antioch first with162 new “Where Your Child is Special” 913.681.2191 913.681.2190 7/31/19

2 weeks to 12 since years FamilyAges Owned and Operated Part-Time Preschool (Ages 1990 3-5) 6:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

9:00-11:30 or 9:00-3:00 weeworkshopchildcare.com Mother’s Day Out (12 mos-3 years) 9:00-3:00

Two Convenient Locations: 127th & Antioch

162nd & Metcalf Ave

913.681.2190 Two Convenient913.681.2191 Locations:

1200 Kansas City Road Olathe, Kansas • 913.971.5111 Activities vary by season Visit www.mahaffie.org

54 june 2022

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162nd &and Metcalf Ave 127th & Antioch Family Owned 913.681.2191 913.681.2190 Operated Since 1990 Family Owned and Operated since 1990 weeworkshopchildcare.com weeworkshopchildcare.com

KC Northern Train Rides Noon, Line Creek Park. Ride restored trains around a half-mile track in the park. $.75/ride. KCNRR.com Free Afternoon Program 1:30, Prairie Park Nature Center. Free program for the family may include video, slideshow and going outside to enjoy nature. LawrenceKS.org Music in the Park 6:00, Rotary Park. Enjoy a relaxing evening outdoors with free, live musical entertainment. BlueSpringsGov.com

psst...

we’re busy whipping up a juicy new issue for

july

• summer fun guide • motivating kids • ways to set a good example

6 Monday Sensory-Friendly Days 9:00, Johnson County Museum. Limited occupancy session for kids with sensory processing differences and autism spectrum disorders. Pre-reg at JCPRD.com.

Popsicles in the Park 6:30, Glendale Park (Independence). Enjoy free frozen treats, live children’s entertainment and special activities.

816.325.7115

8 Wednesday

Story Time for Families 10:00, various branches (MCPL). Hear stories, sing songs, join in movement activities and create memories together. Pre-reg at MyMCPL.org.

Open Gym 9:30, Kaw Prairie Community Church. Grab a coffee from the coffee shop and hang out with friends while your kiddos get their energy out! KawPrairie.org

Our Culture at Play Exhibit Thru Oct, T/m Museum. Featured exhibit explores how iconic characters both influence and reflect American culture. ToyAndMiniatureMuseum.org

Retro Story Time 10:00, Johnson County Arts & Heritage Center. Hear a story from long ago read by a guest from the 1950s All-Electric House! Craft included. Pre-reg at 913.831.3359.

KidsGiG Thru Thursday, Westside Family Church. Kids explore what it means to trust Jesus and make waves in their own lives. Prereg at WestsideFamilyChurch.org/kidsgig.

Weekly Life on the Farm Tour 5:30, Colonial Gardens. Activities may include feeding the chickens, hugging an alpaca or holding a baby goat! ColonialGardensKC.com

7 Tuesday

KC Monarchs Game 7:00, Legends Field.

Bring the family to the ballpark and watch the Monarchs take on the Winnipeg Goldeyes.

MonarchsBaseball.com

Kids Entertainment Series 9:30, Ironwoods Park Amphitheater. Kids will enjoy grinnin’ and groovin’ at a performance by Dino O’Dell!

913.663.9154 Curious George: Let’s Get Curious! 10:00, Crown Center. Children will have fun as they explore the world of Curious George! CrownCenter.com

9 Thursday Mr Stinky Feet Concert 10:00, Roe Park.

Sing and dance along with Jim “Mr Stinky Feet” Cosgrove at this free children’s concert.

OPKansas.org

Kids Day at Kenagy 10:00, C Lee Kenagy Park (Raytown). Check out the petting zoo, fire truck and police cars, story times and more!

UnctionMedia.com/rp2019 Herp Days Noon, George Owens Nature Park. Meet one of the fantastic, cold-blooded creatures—snake, salamander or turtle.

GeorgeOwensNaturePark.org Summer of Fun 1:00, Cameron, MO. Enjoy free museum tours from 1:00 to 8:00 and a free concert in McCorkle Park at 8:00. Family fun on Thursdays! Cameron-MO.com Sunset Music Fest 6:00, Town Center Plaza.

Free summer concert series. Performing tonight are the Elders with the Cowardly Lions.

TownCenterPlaza.com

10 Friday The Little Mermaid Today & tomorrow, Midwest Trust Center. Get ready to ride the wave of a beautiful dance production by the Culture House. CultureHouse.com Prairie Village Art Show Thru Sunday, Prairie Village Shops. Annual art show featuring more than 100 artists. Children’s activities, music and more. PrairieVillageShops.com

LENEXA REC CENTER IS THE PLACE

For the family that

PLAYS

TOGETHER

VISIT TODAY! 17201 W. 87th St. Pkwy., Lenexa, KS 66219

LENEXA.COM/RECCENTER

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Curious George: Let’s Get Curious!

Daily, Crown Center. Children will have fun as they explore the world of Curious George! CrownCenter.com

Second Friday 5:00, Downtown Excelsior Springs. Shops open late, happy hours, live musicians, great eats—there’s something for everyone!

Arts in the Park Today & tomorrow, Macken Park. Festival showcases local artists and makers. Also enjoy food, entertainment, kids activities and more! NKC.org Sugar Creek Slavic Festival Today & tomorrow, Sugar Creek. Music, food and dance from Slavic nations of Eastern Europe.

SlavicFest.com Sounds on the Square 6:00, Linden Square.

Grab your blankets and lawn chairs and join for a night of music under the stars.

LindenSquare.info Summer Concerts in the Park 6:30, Central Park (Zona Rosa). Bring a chair, blanket and friends and enjoy free concerts on Fridays and Saturdays. ZonaRosa.com

LIVE LIFE ADVENTUROUSLY

Back from the Brink 7:00, Ernie Miller Park. Bring the family to the new outdoor amphitheater on Fridays this summer for entertainment and education! Pre-reg at 913.826.2800.

Olathe LIVE! 7:00, Stagecoach Park. Bring blankets, lawn chairs, food and nonalcoholic beverages to enjoy a night of live music.

OlatheKS.org Movies in the Park 8:00, C Lee Kenagy Park.

Enjoy a movie under the stars with the family!

Bring a blanket and enjoy a night of free fun!

UnctionMedia.com/rp2019 Night Flight 9:00, Legacy Park Amphitheater.

A nighttime 5K to benefit the Legacy for Parks Foundation. Pre-reg at CityOfLS.net/parks.

11 Saturday Youth Fishing Derby 9:00, Black Hoof Park.

Catch-and-release derby for kids 13 and under at Black Hoof Park. Prizes awarded. Pre-reg at Lenexa.com.

10

% OFF

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Concours D’Elegance 9:00, Crown Center Square. British car owners from around the region will display their cars. CrownCenter.com World Oceans Weekend Today & tomorrow, Kansas City Zoo. Visit special displays by aquarium construction site along with other activities. KansasCityZoo.org Kids Club 10:00, Colonial Gardens. Kids enjoy fun activities while you shop at Colonial Gardens or savor a coffee at the Bean Counter.

Pre-reg at ColonialGardensKC.com.

ZIPLINE & ADVENTURE PARK Are you itching to get outside? Grab your squad, rehearse that Tarzan yell and get to unwinding in our trees. Go Ape is an exhilarating journey through the forest canopy as you take on epic ziplines and suspended obstacles - all with an incredible view.

Book at Goape.com USE CODE PARENTKC10 SWOPE PARK

7331 Oakwood Drive, Kansas City, MO 64132 Code expires 12/31/22. Excludes Saturdays. Valid at Swope Park only. Must be redeemed at time of purchase. See our website for participation details.

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Dragon Boat Festival 10:00, Brush Creek (Country Club Plaza). Dragon boat races, entertainment, food and fun for the entire family. KCParks.org

Art Garden KC 11:00, Pendleton Heights Neighborhood. Weekly art fair with more than 60 vendors, food trucks, live music, kids activities and more! ArtGardenKC.business.site

Wildflowers: Prairie Pictures 10:00, Anita B Gorman Discovery Center. Join a naturalist on a walk and practice photo tips for getting the best wildflower shots. Pre-reg at MDC.MO.gov.

Free Afternoon Program 1:30, Prairie Park Nature Center. Free program for the family may include video, slideshow and going outside to enjoy nature. LawrenceKS.org

Rock the Amp 6:30, Legacy Park (Lee’s Summit).

Enjoy an outdoor concert along with children’s events and more! Fun for the entire family!

CityOfLS.net

13 Monday

Raytown Live 7:00, Town Center Greenspace.

Bring blankets or lawn chairs and join folks from all over to kick back and enjoy the tunes.

UnctionMedia.com/rp2019

12 Sunday

Summer $2 Bowling Program Thru Aug 30, Mission Bowl ’N Olathe. Purchase card for $50 and receive 24 games of bowling for you and your family! Shoes not included.

MissionBowl.com Visit Science City 10:00, Science City. Bring the family to Science City for tons of summer fun!

UnionStation.org

Future Stages Festival 2022 11:00, Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts. Free festival showcases hundreds of young performers.

KauffmanCenter.org/futurestages

Story Time for Families 10:00, various branches (MCPL). Hear stories, sing songs, join in movement activities and create memories together. Pre-reg at MyMCPL.org.

Public Tours 11:00, Cedar Cove. Explore Cedar Cove with an experienced guide. See these epic animals and learn about them. Tours start every half-hour. SaveOurSiberians.org

Our Culture at Play Exhibit Thru Oct, T/m Museum. Featured exhibit explores how iconic characters both influence and reflect American culture. ToyAndMiniatureMuseum.org

14 Tuesday Kids Entertainment Series 9:30, Ironwoods Park Amphitheatre. Kids will enjoy a puppet show by Stonelion Puppets. Caregiver must stay with child. 913.663.9154 Pay for Play 10:00, Backyard Specialists. Plan a playdate for your children and their friends at the amazing showroom! BackyardSpecialists.com Time Travelers 10:00, Shawnee Town 1929.

Step back in time to the 1920s with family activities in this living history program.

ShawneeTown.org Romeo & Juliet 6:00, Southmoreland Park.

Bring a blanket and enjoy a show in the park!

Pre-show entertainment, food for sale and a performance. KCShakes.org Popsicles in the Park 6:30, Santa Fe Park (Independence). Enjoy free frozen treats, live children’s entertainment and special activities.

816.325.7115

15 Wednesday Mom & Me Bumper Bowling 9:30, Summit Lanes. For just $3 per person, you get a game, shoe rental and drink on Mondays and Wednesdays. SummitLanes.com

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Open Gym 9:30, Kaw Prairie Community Church. Grab a coffee from the coffee shop and hang out with friends while your kiddos get their energy out! KawPrairie.org Open House 10:00, Barstow School. Learn about the academic, artistic and athletic offerings, speak with faculty, parents, students and more! Pre-reg at BarstowSchool.org.

NOW OPEN! LIMITED Group Size Morning and Afternoon Sessions Enhanced Cleaning

Museum

8788 Metcalf Ave Overland Park, KS jocoahc.com

For more info & to book your session: JCPRD.com/Museum

Only 40 minutes from Gladstone!

Days Out with Frank and Ella 10:00, Mahaffie. Enjoy a different history theme each Wednesday and Thursday with plenty of hands-on activities, crafts and a stagecoach ride! Mahaffie.org Curious George: Let’s Get Curious! 10:00, Crown Center. Children will have fun as they explore the world of Curious George!

CrownCenter.com

16 Thursday Janie Next Door Concert 10:00, Highland View Park (Overland Park). Sing and dance along with Janie Next Door at this free children’s concert.

913.344.8656 Cinderella 10:00, City Stage (Union Station).

The classic folktale comes to life with music, romance and hilarious comedy. TYA.org Family Fun on a Bike Noon, Central Resource Library. Test out bike gear, practice fitting bike helmets and learn the basic rules of the road.

JoCoLibrary.org Summer of Fun 1:00, Cameron, MO. Enjoy free museum tours from 1:00 to 8:00 and a free concert in McCorkle Park at 8:00. Family fun on Thursdays! Cameron-MO.com Third Thursday Programs 7:00, Clay County Museum. Free program for all ages! This month’s theme is Clay County in the Civil War. ClayCountyMuseum.org Free Family Fun Nights 5:00, Kansas Children’s Discovery Center. Come explore a special place where children can create, discover and learn through play. KansasDiscovery.org

FOR TEN THURSDAYS THIS SUMMER

JUNE 2 – AUGUST 4 FREE

Museum Tours – 1-8 pm u Band Concerts in McCorkle Park – 8 pm Several Downtown Merchants will be Open Watch Facebook pages for Cameron Main Street, Cameron Depot Museum and Cameron Municipal Band for details!

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Sunset Music Fest 6:00, Town Center Plaza.

Free summer concert series. Performing tonight: A1A with the Landlocked Sailor Bryton Stoll. TownCenterPlaza.com

17 Friday Creative Story Time 10:30, Ceramic Café. Read a book, then paint a ceramic item that goes along with the story and finish with a snack.

CeramicCafeKC.com

Fridays in the Park 11:30, Macken Park (NKC).

Enjoy a Friday summer afternoon in the park listening to local musicians. NKC.org Local Life Today & tomorrow, downtown Overland Park. Explore locally owned businesses, activities and more. Head to DowntownOP.org for details about this month’s theme.

Summertime Bluesfest Today & tomorrow, Oak Grove Park (Gladstone). Chamber and city sponsored event is rockin’ its 25th year of fun and great music! GladstoneChamber.com Lake Fest Today & tomorrow, Smithville Lake.

Pop-up makers fair, food trucks and vendors, live music, parade and more! SmithvilleMO.org Rock the Amp 6:00, Legacy Park (Lee’s Summit).

Enjoy an outdoor concert along with children’s events and more! Fun for the entire family!

CityOfLS.net Olathe LIVE! 7:00, Stagecoach Park. Bring blankets, lawn chairs, food and nonalcoholic beverages to enjoy a night of live music.

OlatheKS.org Descendants Thru June 25, Theatre in the Park (Shawnee). Gates to seating open at 7:30, showtime at 8:30 for Disney’s Descendants.

TheatreInThePark.org

WYCOFAIR

DOTTE PROUD 2021 2022

The Wyandotte County Fair is Coming July 12 – 16, 2022!

One of our Oldest Institutions

WYCOFAIR Fun for the whole family!

DOTTE

PROUD Carnival Midway, Rodeo, Games, Marketplace, Fair Food, Two Entertainment Stages and 4-H Livestock and Exhibits 2021

Just minutes north of the Providence Amphitheater 13700 Polfer Rd Children 12 and Under Free • $5 for Adults • Parking $5 Check out the website or FB for details: Wycofair.com • wycofair WYCOFAIR

1/3 Page WYCO Ad 051222.indd 1

DOTTE 5/12/22 PROUD

11:05 AM

Shrek the Musical 8:00, Belton Memorial Park. Make room for ogre-sized family fun as the greatest fairy tale ever told comes to life.

BeltonParks.org Outdoor Movies Dusk, North Park (Zona Rosa).

Grab a blanket or lawn chair and find a spot to enjoy a flick under the stars. Tonight’s movie is Encanto. ZonaRosa.com Movie in the Park 9:00, Buffalo Meadow Park.

Pack lawn chairs, blankets and snacks and bring your family to enjoy Flight of the Navigator under the stars. Lenexa.com

18 Saturday Missouri Town Tavern Bicentennial 9:00, Missouri Town 1855. Learn about the building’s unique architecture. MakeYourDayHere.com Little Acorns 10:00, Anita B Gorman Discovery Center. Join volunteer naturalists for a fantastic journey through magical places as they read books. Pre-reg at 816.759.7300.

Train Rides 11:00 & 2:00, Belton, Grandview and KC Railroad. Take a 40-minute trip along the tracks of the Frisco Railroad and enjoy a fun afternoon! KCRRM.org kcparent.com june 2022

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SIX-STOP TOUR SHAWNEE

1. STEP BACK IN TIME

2. INCREDIBLE PIZZA

3. GREEN THUMB

4. OUTDOOR THEATER

5. O PIONEERS!

6. A DAY AT THE LAKE

Visit the Shawnee Town 1929 Museum and enjoy a trip back to the 1920s with an interactive day at this historic truck farm or recreated Shawnee downtown, every Tuesday and Thursday this summer. Enjoy fanfavorite activities like farmstead laundry, tending the garden and grocery shopping, along with NEW special activities and a different theme featured each week!

Family fun is the name of the game at America’s Incredible Pizza, the ’50s-themed attraction with a giant buffet, more than 80 arcade games, indoor glow-in-the-dark go-karts, laser tag, ropes course, Lost in Space and more. Enjoy delicious food, affordable family fun and incredible memories at America’s Incredible Pizza Company in Shawnee!

Gardening is a perfect summer hobby for the family, and Shawnee’s Family Tree Nursery has everything for your gardening and landscaping needs.

The Shawnee store also houses Café Equinox, a botanically inspired café where you can enjoy a wide range of Thou Mayest coffee drinks, local KC pastries and more. This modern gardening center is a local favorite.

Shawnee’s Theatre in the Park is a beloved summer tradition. Bring your lawn chair and picnic and enjoy live community musical theater on an outdoor stage.

This summer enjoy Something Rotten (June 3-11), Disney’s The Descendants (June 17-25), School of Rock (July 1-9), Zombie Prom (July 15-23), The SpongeBob Musical (July 29Aug. 6) and Always, Patsy Cline (Sept. 30-Oct. 16).

Pioneer Crossing Park is a local landmark. The masterpiece of the park is the native limestone and bronze statue by local artist Charles Goslin depicting a pioneer, Dick Williams, a wagon master on the wagon train commemorating the 150th anniversary of California Road.

The park also offers beautiful trails and picnic spaces, perfect for summer adventure.

Enjoy a day of canoeing, stand-up paddle-boarding, kayaking, sailing or pedal-boating at Shawnee Mission Park Lake. The facility offers daily rentals so you can enjoy summer fun!

The fishing lake is also stocked with bass, catfish, crappie, rainbow trout and more. The swimming beach also includes a sand volleyball court, a shaded concession area and restrooms.

JCPRD.com

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The Great American Family Campout 2:00, Shawnee Mission Park. Step away from the stresses of daily life and enjoy activities and a campout. Pre-reg at JCPRD.com.

Amazing Race Night 2:00, Indian Creek Library. Ever think you could win The Amazing Race? Bring your teams of two and compete in challenges. Pre-reg at OlatheLibrary.org.

Kansas City Monarchs K-State Night 6:00, Legends Field. Show your purple pride! Night filled with Wildcat surprises. MonarchBaseball.com Monster Jam 7:00, GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. The most action-packed motorsports experience for families returns! MonsterJam.com

21 Tuesday Kids Entertainment Series 9:30, Ironwoods Park Amphitheatre. Kids will enjoy a show with Janie Next Door. Caregiver must stay with child.

913.663.9154 Tots on Tuesday 10:30, Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art. Tots on Tuesday is now virtual! Sing songs, read books, explore art and more. Pre-reg at KemperArt.org.

Discover Nature 2:00, Anita B Gorman Discovery Center. Go on an adventure to make amazing discoveries as you explore on a trail.

Pre-reg at 816.759.7300.

FATHER’S DAY

Make Music Kansas City Various times & locations, Kansas City, MO. Enjoy concerts on streets, sidewalks, venues and parks across the city. MakeMusicDay.org/kcmo

Father’s Day at the Zoo 9:30, Kansas City Zoo. Celebrate the king of your jungle at the zoo! Dads receive coupon for free soft drink!

KansasCityZoo.org

Popsicles in the Park 6:30, Hill Park (Independence). Enjoy free frozen treats, live children’s entertainment and special activities.

816.325.7115

Art Garden KC 11:00, Pendleton Heights Neighborhood. Weekly art fair with more than 60 vendors, food trucks, live music, kids activities and more! ArtGardenKC.business.site

22 Wednesday

19 Sunday

Free Afternoon Program 1:30, Prairie Park Nature Center. Free program for the family may include video, slideshow and going outside to enjoy nature. LawrenceKS.org Stories by the Campfire 1:30, George Owens Nature Park. Roaring fire, exciting stories, fun for all. This month’s theme is Earth Day Story Seeds. 816.325.7115

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

Play items are available, including push toys, riding toys, balls and inflatables. Lenexa.com

Farmers Market 8:00, Downtown Lee’s Summit.

Purchase a variety of fresh produce, plants, meat, baked goods, handmade crafts and more.

DowntownLS.org Visit Science City 10:00, Science City. Bring the family to Science City for tons of summer fun!

UnionStation.org Open Gym 9:30, Kaw Prairie Community Church. Grab a coffee from the coffee shop and hang out with friends while your kiddos get their energy out! KawPrairie.org Weekly Life on the Farm Tour 5:30, Colonial Gardens. Activities may include feeding the chickens, hugging an alpaca or holding a baby goat! ColonialGardensKC.com

Summer $2 Bowling Program Thru Aug 30, Mission Bowl ’N Olathe. Purchase card for $50 and receive 24 games of bowling for you and your family! Shoes not included.

MissionBowl.com

23 Thursday

Story Time for Families 10:00, various branches (MCPL). Hear stories, sing songs, join in movement activities and create memories together. Pre-reg at MyMCPL.org.

Days Out with Frank and Ella 10:00, Mahaffie. Enjoy a different history theme each Wednesday and Thursday with plenty of handson activities, crafts and a stagecoach ride!

Mahaffie.org

Curious George: Let’s Get Curious! 10:00, Crown Center. Children will have fun as they explore the world of Curious George!

CrownCenter.com

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

Time Travelers 10:00, Shawnee Town 1929.

Step back in time to the 1920s with family activities in this living history program.

ShawneeTown.org

Summer of Fun 1:00, Cameron, MO. Enjoy free museum tours from 1:00 to 8:00 and a free concert in McCorkle Park at 8:00. Family fun on Thursdays! Cameron-MO.com June Bug Ball 1:00, Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead. Come dressed as your favorite bug and enjoy crafts, a bug petting zoo and more!

OPKansas.org Sunset Music Fest 6:00, Town Center Plaza.

Free summer concert series. Performing tonight: Summer Breeze, a Yacht Rock tribute band. TownCenterPlaza.com Descendants Thru June 25, Theatre in the Park (Shawnee). Gates to seating open at 7:30, showtime at 8:30 for Disney’s Descendants.

TheatreInThePark.org

24 Friday Alice’s Wonderland 11:00 & 7:00, Coterie Theatre. Adapted from Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, this musical is fun for all ages!

TheCoterie.org Family Bingo Party in the USA! 11:30, Roeland Park Community Center. Have fun with the family as we eat lunch and play bingo. Pre-reg at JCPRD.com.

Waterfest Today & tomorrow, Downtown Excelsior Springs. Event features arts and crafts, live entertainment, kids activities and more!

EXSPGSChamber.com Fourth Fridays Art Walk 5:00, Downtown Lee’s Summit. Showcases from local artists, live music, shops, restaurants and more!

DowntownLS.org/fourthfridays Fourth Fridays 5:30, Downtown Olathe. Enjoy great kids’ activities, live music, food trucks and much more! FourthFridays.olathe.org Parked 5:30, Stump Park (Shawnee). Food trucks, live music, fireworks, bounce houses and more to kick off National Parks & Rec month!

CityOfShawnee.org Snakes Alive 7:00, Ernie Miller Park. Bring the family to the new outdoor amphitheater on Fridays this summer for entertainment and education! Pre-reg at 913.826.2800.

Uncle Rabbit’s Adventures 7:30, Puppetry Arts Institute. A show that resonates with Mexican folklore, culture and music. Reserve seats at 816.833.9777.

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Days Out with Frank and Ella Wednesdays & Thursdays, Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm. Enjoy a different history theme with plenty of hands-on activities, crafts and a stagecoach

25 Saturday Great Lenexa BBQ Battle 9:00, Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park. Watch cooks from all over compete while children enjoy activities and games. Lenexa.com Our Culture at Play Exhibit Thru Oct, T/m Museum. Featured exhibit explores how iconic characters both influence and reflect American culture. ToyAndMiniatureMuseum.org Lights on the Lake 3:00, Osawatomie City Lake. Annual Fourth of July celebration includes face painting, food vendors, live music and fireworks! OsawatomieKS.org4 Freedom Festival 4:00, Hitt Park (Greenwood).

Entertainment, carnival rides and inflatables, a car show, games and fireworks!

GreenwoodMo.com Locked Zoo 5:00, KC Zoo. Love puzzles? Enjoy solving mysteries? Explore select areas of the zoo to search for clues, solve puzzles and save the day! Ages 18+. KansasCityZoo.org

Summer Concerts in the Park 6:30, Central Park (Zona Rosa). Bring a chair, blanket and friends and enjoy free concerts on Fridays and Saturdays.

ZonaRosa.com Drive-In on the Square 7:00, Linden Square.

Bring your lawn chair and enjoy a film under the stars! This year’s film: Spiderman No Way Home. LindenSquare.info Public Viewings 8:00, Powell Observatory.

Bring lawn chairs or blankets to see images from the Ruisinger on a large screen.

ASKC.org/observatories/powell-observatory

26 Sunday Public Tours 11:00, Cedar Cove. Explore Cedar Cove with an experienced guide. See these epic animals and learn about them. Tours start every half-hour. SaveOurSiberians.org

KC Northern Train Rides Noon, Line Creek Park. Ride restored trains around a half-mile track in the park. $.75/ride. KCNRR.com Romeo & Juliet 6:00, Southmoreland Park.

Bring a blanket and enjoy a show in the park!

Pre-show entertainment, food for sale and a performance. KCShakes.org

27 Monday Mom & Me Bumper Bowling 9:30, Summit Lanes. For just $3 per person, you get a game, shoe rental and drink on Mondays and Wednesdays. SummitLanes.com

CONGRATULATIONS! Summit Christian Academy

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Curious George: Let’s Get Curious! 10:00, Crown Center. Children will have fun as they explore the world of Curious George! CrownCenter.com Dive into Science 2:00, Indian Creek Library.

Make waves with mad science this summer as we explore the vast seas! Bring a blanket to sit on. OlatheLibrary.org

28 Tuesday Preschool Indoor Playground 9:30, Irene B French Community Center. Too warm to play in the park? Ride, slide and play inside! Parents supervise children. Merriam.org/park Kids Entertainment Series 9:30, Ironwoods Park Amphitheatre. Kids will enjoy a show with Spaghetti Eddie. Caregiver must stay with child.

913.663.9154 AKMA After Hours 5:00, Albrecht-Kemper Museum of Art. After-hours event features kids games and activities, chance to visit exhibitions and more! Albrecht-Kemper.org Popsicles in the Park 6:30, George Owens Nature Park. Enjoy free frozen treats, live children’s entertainment and special activities.

816.325.7115

29 Wednesday Open Gym 9:30, Kaw Prairie Community Church. Grab a coffee from the coffee shop and hang out with friends while your kiddos get their energy out! KawPrairie.org Visit Science City 10:00, Science City. Bring the family to Science City for tons of summer fun! UnionStation.org Days Out with Frank and Ella 10:00, Mahaffie. Enjoy a different history theme each Wednesday and Thursday with plenty of hands-on activities, crafts and a stagecoach ride! Mahaffie.org Jammin’ on the Green 7:00, Shawnee Town 1929. The Kansas City Ukesters are back in the bandstand! Free admission, bottled water and Popsicles provided. ShawneeTown.org

30 Thursday Pay for Play 10:00, Backyard Specialists.

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

BackyardSpecialists.com

Days Out with Frank and Ella 10:00, Mahaffie. Enjoy a different history theme each Wednesday and Thursday with plenty of handson activities, crafts and a stagecoach ride!

Mahaffie.org Time Travelers 10:00, Shawnee Town 1929.

Step back in time to the 1920s with family activities in this living history program.

ShawneeTown.org Our Culture at Play Exhibit Thru Oct, T/m Museum. Featured exhibit explores how iconic characters both influence and reflect American culture. ToyAndMiniatureMuseum.org Summer of Fun 1:00, Cameron, MO. Enjoy free museum tours from 1:00 to 8:00 and a free concert in McCorkle Park at 8:00. Family fun on Thursdays! Cameron-MO.com Stuffed Animal Sleepover 3:00, MCPL (Liberty). Drop off your friend at the library the day before then return for a special program.

Pre-reg at MyMCPL.org.

KC Monarchs Game 7:00, Legends Field.

Bring the family to the ballpark and watch the Monarchs take on the Cleburne Railroaders.

MonarchsBaseball.com

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JUNE

FUN CALENDAR AQUARIUM

MONTH Visit Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium where you’ll encounter some of the most unique habitats and species from around the world.

FIRST WEEK OF JUNE

JUNE 3

World Bicycle Day:

Check out our favorite bike trails.

The metro is home to many fun trails, including locations where you may rent a bike with BikeKC.

ROSE MONTH

Loose Park’s rose garden features 4,000 roses of nearly 168 varieties in the 1.5-acre garden. Pack a picnic and enjoy a day at the park.

Discover a new adventure on a trail using the guidebook Hiking Kansas City by William B. Eddy and Richard O. Ballentine. Also, check out the “Best Trails in Town” article at KCParent.com.

Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead’s dairy exhibit offers kids a firsthand dairy experience.

They can watch staff milk cows, then they can pet calves and milk a pretend cow.

NATIONAL ADOPT A CAT MONTH

Great Plains SPCA is one of the largest no-kill animal shelters in the Kansas City area. Learn how to adopt a pet, volunteer or help support the cause at GreatPlainsSPCA.org.

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JUNE 9 Donald Duck Day: Donald Duck has Kansas City roots!

The feisty feathered character is a creation of Walt Disney, who started his animation business at his Laugh-O-Grams Studio in Kansas City. Celebrate with a trip to Marceline, MO, where you can visit the Walt Disney Museum.

JUNE 23 National Pink

JUNE 6 National Trails Day:

DAIRY MONTH

National Gardening Week:

Family Tree Nursery’s expert staff is always on hand to help with your gardening questions, and the nursery is stocked with everything you need for the garden of your dreams. FamilyTreeNursery.com

Day: It’s the day to celebrate the color pink, and what better way than to visit the restaurant in St. Joseph, MO, that looks like a giant pink ice cream cone? Kris & Kate’s serves delicious hot dogs, ice cream and malts.

JUNE 25 National Food Truck Day: Local food trucks dish up fabulous servings of deliciousness all summer long at local parks and events. Waffles, tacos, coffee cake, gyros, barbecue, salads, sandwiches … everything you can imagine is available, it seems. Visit KCFoodTrucks.org for locations and dates.

Tickets Make Great Father’s Day Gifts JUNE 18

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