KC Parent Magazine July 2012

27 years of connecting with kansas city families

FREE July 2012 KCParent.com

summer olympics

family style

backyard

camping

make your own patriotic cake pops

meet our

teen bloggers

KC’s BEST

summer fun!

FEATURING KIDS ALL OVER KC INSIDE!

kcparent.com july 2012

1

healthcare you can trust.

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

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

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

821 SW Lemans Lane Lee’s Summit, Missouri

816.525.4700

Urgent Care (Pediatrics Only) No appointment necessary!

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

NEW LOCATION

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

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

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

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

LSPhysicians.com • Raintree-Pediatrics.com • BlueSpringsPediatric.com kcparent.com 2 july 2012

kcparent.com july 2012

3

REDEFINING NEONATOLOGY

ONE CHILD AT A TIME

With the area’s only Level IIIc Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Children’s Mercy Hospitals and Clinics offers the very highest level of neonatal care. And it’s all backed by the expertise of more than 400 pediatric specialists, surgeons and researchers. As the only hospital in the region providing ECMO and the leader in nitric oxide research and therapies, we’re helping more critically ill newborns go on to live healthy, active lives. Learn more at facebook.com/ChildrensMercy.

4

kcparent.com july 2012

We don’t address the symptoms of ADHD. We address the cause.

At Brain Balance Achievement Centers, we tackle your child’s ADHD at the most fundamental level — with a unique, drug-free, whole-child approach that goes beyond symptoms to address root causes.

Every child deserves the opportunity to reach their fullest social and academic potential. Stop in or call to learn more about the Brain Balance Program® and how we can help your child succeed.

Call

Visit

lEaRN MORE

913.627.9400

6406 College Boulevard Overland Park, KS 66211

brainbalanceoverlandpark.com

©2012 Brain Balance Centers

Brain Balance of Overland Park

kcparent.com july 2012

5

KC DAYCATIONS, pg. 16

JULY 2012

DEPARTMENTS 15

Women’s Health

18

Healthy Kids

19

Word from Dad

23

Media Mix

SPECIAL SECTIONS Emily at Cool Crest

FEATURES

16 Daycations No vacation?

Take a KC daycation

20 Talking to Your Teen Things to say to your teenager every day

28

Party Guide

32

Education Guide

40

Calendar of Events

27

Our KC cover kid is Kassidy from Pleasant Hill, MO. Cover and select interior photos by Antisdels.com.

Chores for Kids Should you pay your children for chores?

27 years of connecting with kansas city families

FREE July 2012 KCParent.com

ON THE COVER

summer olympics

family style

Summer olympics family style

10

backyard

Summer fun in KC

16

meet our

Patriotic cake pops

22

Meet KC Parent’s teen bloggers

24

Backyard camping

38

camping

make your own patriotic cake pops

teen bloggers

KC’s BEST

summer fun!

FEATURING KIDS ALL OVER KC INSIDE!

6

kcparent.com july 2012

kcparent.com july 2012

1

kcparent.com july 2012

7

editor’s letter JULY 2012

Publisher Michael Gimotty Michael@KCParent.com Associate Publisher Darrell Dean Darrell@KCParent.com

T

KCPARENT.COM FEATURES OVER 100 FREE IDEAS FOR SUMMER FAMILY FUN IN KC!

o know me is to know that I love the great outdoors. I love it in a “let’s enjoy a leisurely dinner on the patio” kind of way as opposed to the “let’s pack up and spend the night in a tent without any facilities” kind of way. My girls, however, did not get the message and have a great desire to go camping. I’ve been able to hold them off for the time being, but I know my excuses are running thin. I think Sara Keenan’s article on backyard camping on pg.

38 may hold the solution for us all!

Speaking of the great outdoors, the Summer Olympics begin later this month in London. Are you and your family going to watch? I know the Sarver family will be cheering on team USA in all of the summer events. Jennifer Higgins shares some great ideas for games and crafts on pg. 10, which you and your kids can enjoy as you watch along with the world this summer.

July is an important month in my life.

Sixteen years ago on July 13, I became a wife, and 11 years ago on July 19, I became a mom. I am blessed beyond measure with a terrific husband and not one but two terrific daughters. To Ty, Happy Anniversary! Thanks for choosing me to take this journey with you. And to Tori, Happy Birthday! You are a constant source of joy and pride, and I love you more every day!

And to you, KC parents, enjoy the month of July with your family! So much to do and see…get out and have some fun!

Margaret Sarver, Editor

8

kcparent.com july 2012

Editor Margaret Sarver Margaret@KCParent.com Art Director Lauren Goldman Lauren@KCParent.com Advertising Sales Darrell Dean Lynn Hawkins Advertising@KCParent.com Electronic Media Manager Kristina Light Kristina@KCParent.com Event Calendar Marisa Frymire Calendar@KCParent.com Proofreader Susan Crainshaw Susan@KCParent.com Distribution To be added to our distribution list, e-mail Distribution@KCParent.com

100% LOCAL

Local Contributing Writers Bill Bartlett (Belton), Kimberly Brownlee (Liberty), Jennifer Duxbury (Belton), Lauren Greenlee (Olathe), Stacey Hatton (Overland Park), Jennifer Higgins (Kearney), Sara Keenan (Kansas City), Gina Klein (Kansas City), Kristina Light (Kansas City), Hallie Sawyer (Overland Park), Kathy Stump (Parkville), Melanie Yunger (Shawnee) Business Office 11936 W. 119th #335 Overland Park, KS 66213 913.782.3238 phone • 913.681.5139 fax

Find us on Facebook: Facebook.com/KansasCityParent Follow us on Twitter: @KCParent Find us on Foursquare: foursquare.com/kcparent Member of:

Circulation verified by:

Kansas City Parent Magazine is published 12 times a year by Family Media Group. It is distributed free of charge throughout the Kansas City area. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect KC Parent’s opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written permission. Kansas City Parent Magazine does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. All photography and letters sent to KC Parent will be treated unconditionally assigned for publication and copyright purposes and are subject to unrestricted right to edit and comment editorially. KC Parent often includes websites that may be helpful to our readers. We verify each site prior to publication.

However, content changes frequently. We encourage you to use caution and discretion when visiting a website.

S:3.6”

July 24–29

S:9.88”

presented by

Bring the whole family!

Tickets start at $10* ShareStarlight.com 816.363.STAR *Service fee may apply

12-STAR-0600_PtrPn_KCParent_AD_RUN.indd 1

6/14/12 2:35 PM

kcparent.com july 2012

9

SUMMER OLYMPICS I

HAVE A BALL THIS SUMMER WITH OLYMPIC INSPIRATION

FAMILY STYLE FUN OLYMPIC FACTS

• Every national flag includes one of the five colors represented in the five Olympic rings: blue, yellow, black, green and red.

• The rings represent the five original continents: Africa, America, Asia, Australia and Europe.

10

kcparent.com july 2012

• The first Olympics were held in 1896, and women were first allowed to participate in 1900.

• The Olympics have never been held in Africa.

• London has hosted the Olympic games twice before, in 1908 and 1948.

• There will be 26 sports in this summer’s Olympics, held in 28 different places.

• The motto of the Olympic Games is “Swifter, Higher, Stronger.”

• 205 nations will compete.

’ve been waiting four years for this—it’s almost time for the Summer Olympics in London. The games begin July 27 with the opening ceremony, and closing ceremonies are on Aug. 12. For the two weeks in between, I will be glued to my favorite events: beach volleyball, diving, hiking, swimming, volleyball and—my all-time favorite—gymnastics. Looking for a way to extend the Olympics beyond the television set? Host a mini olympics with either your family or your neighbors!

In today’s technological world, it is increasingly more important to keep children active. ”Kids today need to be more active. Type 2 diabetes and obesity are on the rise, and being active will prevent heart disease,” Laura Sorens, physical education teacher at Liberty North High School and mother of two, says.

Hosting a mini olympics is an excellent way to encourage children to be active. “It teaches teamwork, builds self esteem and prepares children for life, helps get them excited about games and promotes family bonding,” Sorens says.

Sarah Schneider, physical education teacher at South Valley Middle School and mother of two, agrees with Sorens and shares some additional ideas for a mini olympics.

Make up your own little games like a water balloon toss and sack races or typical field day-type games.

Have a medal ceremony at the end of each game and keep a medal count.

Have each person make up their own flag to fly at the medal ceremony.

Schneider’s daughter is a competitive gymnast, and “something we are doing this summer is going to the Gymnastics Visa Championships in St. Louis. That way we can see the gymnasts competing right before the Olympics,” Schneider says. “We figured it was a lot cheaper than going to London.”

Megan Dilonardo, a preschool teacher in Liberty and mother of two, shares a few craft ideas for little ones that could be modified for bigger kids.

“We discuss the Olympic flag and make one out of yarn. We also make medals out of gold paper and/or cardboard with glitter and a red/white/blue ribbon,” Dilonardo says.

Jennifer Higgins is a freelance writer, teacher and mother from Kearney. She will be watching all Olympic games, but especially gymnastics and swimming.

Get More Hosting an Olympic-themed party? KCParent.com has terrific tips to make your party a success!

TRY THESE OLYMPIC-INSPIRED GAMES WITH YOUR FAMILY:

Have a bowling tournament using soda bottles filled with water, kicking a soccer ball to knock over the soda bottles.

Have a discus or javelin throwing contest with a package of paper plates as a discus or pool noodles/ straws as a javelin.

With sidewalk chalk, make a hopscotch board and see who can go the fastest. Make multiple boards with different options.

To imitate races, try galloping, skipping and running, with lengths marked with sidewalk chalk.

Throw a ball or bean bag in a tin can or bucket, just like the shot put.

Enrolling NOW for Fall 2012!

The region’s most respected program for aspiring dancers ages 3 to 19

Our classes help your child learn poise, balance, rhythm, and how to take instruction and work well with others… all under the guidance of our professional, year-round dance faculty.

Introduce movement to your child with excellent starter classes in...

• •

Creative Movement (ages 3-5) Pre-Ballet (Kindergarten-3rd grade)

Watch them achieve, grow and develop their skills from Level 1... to Levels 2-3... on up through Levels 4-7

Two Convenient Locations!

Union Station

Pershing

Johnson County 5359 W. 94th Terr.

Prairie Village, KS (95th & Nall)

W. 95th St.

W. 97th St.

Nall Ave.

I-3

5

94th Terr.

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

Broadway

Photographer Brett Pruitt & East Market Studios

•

Enroll TODAY to secure your child’s spot!

Call 816-931-2299 or visit www.kcballet.org/school for a complete list of classes. kcparent.com july 2012

11

are you raising a

pop-tart ? ®

D

o you constantly tell your kids to do something but their response is only a glazed over look on their faces, your words sliding over their heads like the air stream in an aerodynamic car commercial? Perhaps you have one of those kids who spaces out in the outfield, missing the easy fly ball because his glove is on his head. As a parent, it’s frustrating to watch your child act this way.You may want to scream, “Where ARE you?!” and berate your spouse’s gene pool. However, it might have something to do with more than just genetics.

We’ve all heard the phrase you are what you eat, but are we really listening? Is your wallet open wide when the kids spy the concession stand? If so, put the money away and listen.Your child’s behavior is crying out to you.Years of research have shown that our children’s behavior can be greatly affected by things in their diets.

Behavior disorders such as ADHD and ADD are the center of many medical studies, and researchers are finding that our environment has a huge impact on how our children behave—or misbehave. The answer doesn’t have to be medication as you might have heard. It can be as easy as giving your children a more wholesome diet, which may even be the answer to many of your parenting struggles. Try

12

kcparent.com july 2012

these suggestions and then observe your child for a few weeks.You may be pleasantly surprised.

Eliminate artificial dyes and additives

A study by L.J. Stephens and others at the Department of Foods and Nutrition at Purdue University suggests that symptoms of ADHD were greatly reduced with an artificial food color-free diet. When they were given at least 100 mg of AFCs (artificial food colors) in a recent study, 65 to 89 percent of the children with suspected sensitivities to dyes reacted. So on the home front, check all the labels—even on the barbecue sauce.You’ll be surprised where manufacturers sneak in the dyes.

This also means cutting out the junk food, like soda pop, candy and fast food, while working toward serving more whole foods, the ones that either have no labels or have five or fewer ingredients.

Dr. Joy Weydert, associate professor of pediatrics and integrative medicine at the University of Kansas Medical Center and practicing pediatrician at Children’s Mercy Hospital, says, “Other things that can set off behavior are the food preservatives, other additives (MSG), aspartame (NutraSweet), herbicides and pesticides.

Most processed foods have some of these laced in them, and some children may not know that they are sensitive to these chemicals. With exposure, they may have a sudden change in behavior—explosive outbursts, hyperactivity, vulgar language—or more commonly, they will have subtle, chronic problems with staying focused, forgetfulness, mild allergies, dark circles under the eyes, stomach aches, etc.”

Dabble with your dairy

We all know cow’s milk has been a food allergen for years and you may have continued on pg. 14

Non-medication treatments: Let them rest • A study by Brown University of children ages 8 to 14 reports that sleep deprivation can lead to symptoms of ADHD. The symptoms escalate with each additional night the children don’t get a full night’s sleep.

• Experts recommend sticking to the same bedtime every night and giving your child enough unwind time before turning out the lights. TV viewing before bed can cause children to have a tough time going to sleep and staying asleep.

The essentials • Provide your child with a variety of whole foods—fruits, vegetables, grains and proteins—along with lots of water.

Weydert says, “Kids who do not drink good amounts of water each day often are more tired, less focused, have headaches, achy muscles and constipation. Water is essential.”

Stick with minimally processed foods and those grown without pesticides or herbicides.

Positive reinforcement and encouragement • Studies show that kids with ADD/ ADHD symptoms tend to have poor self-esteem. Catching them being good will boost their feelings of self-confidence and hopefully encourage more of the same behavior.

• Engage with kids at dinner by having family meals with TV/phones/texting turned off. Show them you are interested in them!

• Enlist them in chores so they can feel important to the family, as well as giving you the opportunity pat to serve at your book club, visit KCParent.com and learn how to make For tasty to treats them on the back. storybook cupcakes. Super simple and super yummy! kcparent.com july 2012

13

thought your children immune. But a milk reaction, whether allergic or as intolerance, doesn’t just manifest in gut aches and hives. Behavior also can be affected.

The whey and casein proteins, added hormones and antibiotics in milk sometimes encourage kids to act like certain farm animals rather than their own human species.

If your kids are milk fanatics and can’t give it up quite yet, try organic or even some alternative milks, such as almond, rice and even hemp milk. If they can give up the milk but want to keep the calcium, try calcium chews from the pharmacy shelves.

Weydert explains to skeptical parents that “we are the only species that drinks other species’ milk and we are the only ones that drink it past infancy.”

Incorporate the RIGHT fats

Omega-3 fatty acids (also known as Alpha Linolenic Acids or ALA) are helpful

in such disorders as ADHD because of their role in proper brain function. In the Gale Encyclopedia of Diets, Emma Mills, R.D., discusses the ADHD Diet and the important role these fatty acids play in a growing child’s health. EPA and DHA are the healthy fats produced from Omega-3 fatty acids, but that production can’t happen with a poor diet. Some of the best sources of ALA are salmon, tuna, halibut, mackerel and sardines, but if your kids are like mine, they would rather throw those fish back then put them on their plates.

Other good sources to try are green leafy vegetables and herbs such as watercress, spinach, basil, coriander, mint and parsley.

Organic sources of meat, as well as dairy, are also great ways to get ALA. Try cooking meals with canola oil, flax seed or flax oil, and if your family likes like eggs, try the Omega-3 eggs from your local grocer. If your kids aren’t into making these changes quite yet, a great way to incorporate them is through chewables.

Some great ones are Nordic Naturals Children’s DHA or NSI Omega-3 Chewables, which are available online through Vitacost.com. These are dye-free, natural and full of brain-boosting power.

Leigh’s School of Dance an unforgettable adventure with horses

2012 Horsemanship for Fun Summer Camps safety • saddling • grooming • games on horseback • RIDE, RIDE, RIDE!

now enrolling for summer!

Camp session dates July 9-13; July 16-20; July 23-27 Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

established in 1970 recreation & competitive levels

Ages 8 through 14 years. $225.00 per session.

Call or email now!

Phone: 816-220-2332 E-mail: cindystrahm@hotmail.com Misty River Equestrian Center 21400 Eureka Road Independence, MO 64057

14

kcparent.com july 2012

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

913.764.4146

Explain

Most importantly, talk to your kids and tell them why you are making these changes. Horse trainers don’t feed their horses only sugar cubes before a big race. Olympic athletes don’t pig out on candy bars before their time trials then wash things down with a big soda. Sounds absurd, right? Explain the issue in terms like these to help your kids realize their heroes eat a certain way so their bodies will perform at top levels. They use food as fuel, and they use only the best.

Because you truly want the best for them, try giving your own kids the fuel they need and keep the brain-fogging foods to a minimum. Eating well will keep their motors running, their heads clear and their behavior headed in the right direction.

As always, check with your doctor if you have questions on your child’s diet and behavior.

Overland Park writer Hallie Sawyer is the lucky mother of three who battles daily with her kids about making smart food choices. She may lose a battle here or there but is determined to win the war. She blogs at HallieSawyer.com/blog.

women’s health

hormonal?

O

K ladies, we’ve all been there.You know the time when you have just completed the one thousandth task for the day, the final item on the mile-long checklist of things to do, and the father of your children asks, “What did you do today?”….. (Eye roll). Really? Did he just ask that? Then with much irritation in our voices we regurgitate the list of things that we did, and then he says,“Wow, are you getting ready to start your period?”

I must admit, that comment usually makes me wonder just a little. Do I have premenstrual syndrome (PMS)? Or the latest term, premenstrual tension (PMT)?

Up to 85 percent of women will experience physical symptoms related to their cycles, such as breast tenderness and bloating; however, true premenstrual syndrome is a compilation of emotional and physical symptoms that occur during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle (about 10 days prior to menses). Up to 10 percent of women have significant premenstrual symptoms that interfere with their daily lives. There are many symptoms of PMS, but the most common are: • Irritability • Tension • Unhappiness • Stress, anxiety • Insomnia • Headache • Fatigue • Mood swings • Changes in libido Risk factors include family history, high caffeine intake, increased age, history of depression and dietary factors, such as low magnesium or vitamins E and D.

What’s a girl to do?

If the list of symptoms above describes you, it may be beneficial for you to seek help from your physician. It is a good idea to keep a journal of your symptoms on a calendar for at least two cycles.With the journal information and advances in technology and medicine today, your physician will be able to help you feel better.

We shouldn’t have to wait until menopause to get relief from premenstrual symptoms.

In the meantime, try to give your man a break. Hopefully he is only curious about you and what you did during the hours you were apart!

Melanie Yunger is a local wife, mom, nurse practitioner and freelance writer (and may occasionally, sometimes, maybe monthly be irritable….almost never!)

We’re looking for healthy women who want to help infertile couples. If you’re between 21 and 29 years old and have had at least one child, consider participating in our egg donation program.

Compensation is provided and all donors are anonymous.

For information call: (913) 894-2323

ONLY 4 STUDENTS PER CLASS

25

$

Ages 4 to Adult

OFF PER NEW STUDENT!

Standard tuition for a session of 8 35-minute group classes is $99.60. Your price is $74.60.

Valid only for new students enrolling in a full session at one of our facilities.

Jeff Kelly's

Personalized Swim Instruction

©

Since 1987

Classes offered at Our Pools or Yours!

March to August Our Indoor Facility with 90° Water June & July Our Heated Outdoor Facility, Homes Associations, Country Clubs & Residences

Enroll Online at www.jeffkellyinc.com 816-942-SWIM (7946)

kcparent.com july 2012

15

5

FABULOUS

WATKINS MILL STATE PARK

DAYCATIONS IN KANSAS CITY

COCO KEY

COOL CREST

A DAY AT THE LAKE NEED MORE IDEAS FOR SUMMER FUN IN KC? LOG ONTO KCPARENT.COM FOR LISTS OF FREE SUMMER MOVIES, CONCERTS AND SO MUCH MORE!

16

kcparent.com july 2012

Whether you enjoy swimming, boating or fishing, Kansas City is home to many terrific lakes with sand beaches, boat rentals and terrific fishing. If you’re up for an “adventure on the high seas” of Longview Lake, you can enjoy a Pirate Ship Cruise (see pg. 48 for details). Visit KCParent.com and search for “Beaches and Boating” for details on local swim beaches and boat rental. If you’re up for a real adventure, you can learn to sail at Lake Jacomo in Missouri with the Jacomo Sailing Club (816.678.7761) or on Lake Perry in Kansas with Clifton’s Columbus School of

Sail (913.220.5177). Lessons are offered for beginning sailors, and sailing can quickly become a family sport. Or, become a spectator of the sport and watch sailboat races every Sunday afternoon at 1:30 through October on Lake Jacomo, where boats sail from both Sailboat Cove on the east side and the marina on the west side.

BACK TO THE BASICS

Take a break from technology and enjoy an opportunity to get back to nature at one of the most scenic state parks in Missouri. Just north of the river lies Watkins Mill State Park (26600 Park Rd.

TIPS TO MAKING YOUR DAYCATION SUPER SENSATIONAL Shhhh! It’s a surprise: Don’t tell the kids about the daycation until it’s time! What fun they’ll have when they wake up in the morning to learn of the adventure that lies ahead!

A little mad money: Give each of the kids a set amount of spending money for any extras. Whether it’s $1 (for a lollipop or smashed penny for a collector’s album) or $5, give them a budget and stick to it.

Weather Watch: Let’s face it. Kansas City’s weather is a bit unpredictable. Have a weatherproof plan B in place.

SHAWNEE MISSION LAKE

the campgrounds. During the day you’ll see white-tailed deer, wild turkeys and a variety of birds (pack some binoculars and a good camera), and at night you’ll find terrific views for stargazing (bring a telescope or ask your friends if they have one you may borrow).

MAKE SOME WAVES

LAKE JACOMO

N., Lawson, MO, 816.580.3387, MoStateParks.com), featuring a 100-acre lake, campgrounds, picnic areas, trails and Watkins Woolen Mill State Historic Site. There, you can tour a 19th century three-story woolen mill and home to learn what life was like for families more than a century ago. The mill is the only 19th century textile mill in the United States with its original machinery still intact. Watkins Mill offers many terrific choices for daycationers. The lake features a paved bike path, fishing spots, boating, picnic tables and a swim beach. If you’d like to stay the night, you may make reservations to use

Summer and swimming—the two go hand-in-hand. Kansas City’s year-round waterpark, CoCo Key Water Resort (816.737.0200, CoCoKeyKansasCity.com), offers both indoor and outdoor water park attractions, making it ideal for even the hottest summer days. The Shark Slam, Barracuda Blast and Pelican Plunge are three 40-ft. thrilling body and raft water slides for adventure seekers! Guests must be 48” tall to ride down tube slides and 42” tall to ride down the body slide. At Parrot’s Perch, the park also offers slides for those at least 36” tall so little ones can begin to enjoy the fun.You can play for just the day or spend the night. Ask about overnight package bundles with tickets for other local attractions as well.

GO ON “ANOTHER PERSON’S TRASH IS YOUR TREASURE” HUNT

As children grow up, their interests and needs do as well. Could your kids use a new chair or desk for their room? A bulletin board or reading nook? Kansas City is home to four Habitat for Humanity Restore locations (Habitat.org). Each store is a resale outlet where donated goods—home remodeling materials, from hardware, tile and carpet to the proverbial kitchen sink and furnishings—are sold at a fraction of retail. This is a great way to buy inexpensive materials and reuse supplies that may otherwise wind up in a landfill.

And, even better, 100 percent of the proceeds benefits local Habitat for Humanity affiliates to fund the construction of Habitat homes within the community.You may find a chair, shelf or cabinet that can be quickly freshened up with a bit of paint, a mirror begging for a bit of personalization with decoupage, a carpet square to stencil or a bulletin board for artwork and notes. Take the kids on a treasure hunt to find just the right item to jazz up their bedrooms, update it with a fresh coat of paint and voila!

You’ve just updated a bedroom, made memories and helped a worthy cause. For inspiration to repurpose your treasures, check out 50 Ways to Paint Furniture: The Easy, Step-by-Step Way to Decorator Looks

by Elise Kinkead or Furniture Facelifts: A Paint Recipes Book : A Step-By-Step Guide to Revamping Your Furniture by Liz Wagstaff and Mark Thurgood.

HOLE IN ONE

If you grew up in Kansas City, as I did, chances are strong you hold many summer memories of mini golf at Cool Crest (10735 E. US Hwy. 40, Independence, MO, 816.358.0088, CoolCrest.com. Open Mon.Thu. 10:00-10:00, Fri. & Sat. 10:00-11:00 and Sun. 11:00-10:00). If you haven’t been, this is a family favorite for us. (Tip: Find great coupons on pg. 5). Cool Crest features four miniature golf courses with mechanical hazards, water traps and decorations ranging from the Statue of Liberty to windmills and dragons. The dragon with the opening/closing mouth is every child’s favorite.

Cool Crest also offers go-karts, arcades and a pizzeria for snacks or dessert after golf!

Kristina Light and her girls love local adventures.

kcparent.com july 2012

17

healthy kids

hidden sodium in our children’s diets

H

ave you ever enjoyed a night at your favorite Mexican or Chinese restaurant and consumed a few baskets of chips and salsa or some Kung Pao chicken and crab Rangoon, then wondered the next morning how on earth you gained 4 pounds overnight? Salt and monosodium glutamate (MSG), a popular food additive/taste enhancer, are both loaded with sodium, so blame it on them!

what does sodium do? to the measure 1/4 teaspoon salt = 600 mg sodium 1/2 teaspoon salt = 1,200 mg sodium 3/4 teaspoon salt =1,800 mg sodium 1 teaspoon salt = 2,300 mg sodium 1 teaspoon baking soda= 1,000 mg sodium

18

kcparent.com july 2012

Sodium is like a magnet to water in our bodies. It draws the fluid into the bloodstream, which is helpful because 60 percent of the human body consists of water. However, if too much sodium is consumed, the body fluid becomes imbalanced, which in some children and adults may contribute to high blood pressure.

The reverse of sodium is potassium, and the two work directly together. These minerals need to be proportionately balanced to keep the “machine” running effectively. So if the fuel parents allow into kids’ mouths is laden with salt and they are not getting enough potassium-rich foods to counteract this, the body can get unbalanced, adding stress to the cardiovascular system. This is not true for all children, but a combination of this with genetics, weight and a high resting heart rate can predict future problems.

According to the American Heart Association, “97 percent of children and adolescents eat too much salt, putting them at greater risk for cardiovascular diseases as they get older.”

making a change

The average daily sodium requirement ranges from 1,200 mg for 4- to 8-year-old children to 1,500 mg for 9- to 18-year-olds.

• Try to cook more at home.

• When available, choose fresh vegetables and fruits.

• Limit the amount of processed foods you eat.

• Avoid adding salt when cooking and/ or eating.

• Learn to cook with spices, herbs or fruit to enhance the taste of your food.

Low Sodium Foods Fresh/frozen vegetables, without salt, 1/2 cup Canned vegetables, 1/2 cup

Processed cheeses, 1 oz.

Fresh meat, fish, poultry, 3 oz.

Tuna canned, water pack, 3 oz.

Ham, lean, roasted, 3 oz.

mg 1-70 140460 300 30-90 230350 1,020

Potassium Rich Foods mg Banana, 1 medium 420 Apricots, 1/4 cup 380 Cantaloupe chunks, 1/2 cup 214 Potato, 1 medium 926 Sweet Potato, 1 medium 540 Cooked soybeans, 1/2 cup 440 Milk, 1 cup 380 (Source: National Institutes of Health, 2010) Stacey Hatton is a pediatric RN and a salty freelance writer.

word from dad

day sailing

“D

o you want to take the helm?”

I asked Patrick.“Not this time,” he answered.

We sailed around the lake again and I watched with envy as a catamaran cruised past us. This wasn’t a race, though.

Patrick and I went out on the day after Independence Day just to have some fun and we did. After enough times around the lake, we headed to shore and loaded up our slow, tiny boat.

“Come on,” I said. “Let’s have a soda.” Patrick ran up the stairs of the marina to the snack bar while I followed.

With our drinks in hand, we sat down at a table on the upper level of the marina and enjoyed watching the other boats sail, including this speedy catamaran, as we savored our drinks.

Finished with their sailing, the couple piloting the catamaran came in slowly to the dock. A young man had the helm, and a young lady in a swimsuit stood on the bow, ready to step onto the dock and secure the boat.

The boat had too much speed, though, and bounced off the dock right as the young lady stepped off. Expecting dock, she had nothing but air to support her and she fell cleanly into the water as expertly as if the move had been rehearsed. She didn’t flail or windmill her arms; she just went straight down, smoothly cutting the water. Patrick and I cracked up. The young man laughed so hard that he couldn’t help her out of the water. With an air of “I meant to do that,” she pulled herself up onto the dock and sat, refreshed by her unexpected dip.

“Dad,” Patrick said between bouts of laughter, “Next time we go sailing, just pull alongside of the dock. When we’re stopped, then I’ll get out.”

William R. Bartlett lives in Belton with his family.

LEAWOOD PEDIATRICS • Conveniently located office • Front door parking • Electronic medical records • Extended evening and Saturday hours Now E-Prescribing Schedule summer physicals now

Mary Hamm, MD Megan Loeb, MD Mary Nagy, MD Aundria Speropoulos, MD

5401 College Boulevard, Suite 101 Leawood, Kansas 66211 (College & Nall) (913) 825-DOCS (3627) www.leawoodpediatrics.com kcparent.com july 2012

19

TALKING TO YOUR

TEEN Hug your child— even your teen— and tell her she’s important and special. It only takes a minute, and it will make a difference.

Things to Tell Your Teen I love you.

I’m proud of you.

I’m here for you.

I believe in you.

I support you.

I accept you.

You are important.

T

he teenage years can be rough.Your babies no longer want to be seen at the mall with you; questions are answered with a simple “yes” or “no;” and instead of listening to you, your teenagers roll their eyes and walk away. No worries, though.

This is normal teen development, and while it’s hard to accept, it’s important for teens to break away from their parents at this age.What you need to be aware of during this critical time in their lives is how you speak to them. For the most part, you’re probably aware of what you do say to your teen, but you may be unaware of what you aren’t saying.

One of the most important skills a parent needs when raising a teen is positive attention. Blue Springs mom Alexa

20

kcparent.com july 2012

Smith agrees.

“I believe that one of the most important things that a teen needs to know is that they are loved unconditionally,” she says.

“Every day, I tell them I love them when they leave for school and when they get home. I kiss them every night, and even though they’re teens, they’ll seek me out if they go to bed before I get in there to ‘tuck them in.’”

“They need to hear,‘I love you!’”

Olathe mom Tina Alstatt says.“I tell them I love them and I’m proud of them as much as I can.”

When was the last time you told your teen you love him? It’s easy to get so wrapped up in what we are doing in our jobs, personal lives and relationships that

we forget to say the obvious, but important, things. Don’t take it for granted that your child knows you love her. Take the time to say it. Sometimes kids just need to hear the words.

“As parents, we also need to tell them that we’re proud of their accomplishments, no matter how small,” Smith says.“Even if they try their hardest, and it’s not quite as good as we think it should be, they still deserve a pat on the back.”

Alstatt agrees. “They need to hear ‘I’m proud of you’ and be praised for making the right decisions.”

Another important skill to keep under your belt is listening. Listen to your teen when he talks and respect his opinions.

Alstatt says she always tunes in when her teenage sons need someone to talk to.

“When I can see they just want to sit and chat I make sure I give them my undivided attention. If I’m watching television, I turn it off and look them in the eye. They need to know I’m really listening and interested in what they are saying. That’s why they come back and talk to me the next time—they know that there is nothing more important to me than them,” Alstatt says.

Tell your teen that she’s important and special. This is another one of the biggies. Sure, you may think that your child is important, but how often do you tell her that you feel this way? Saying the words can have a huge impact on your child’s self-esteem, as well as your relationship with your child. Hug your child—even your teen—and tell him he’s important and special. It only takes a minute, and it will make a difference.

Support your teen and realize that she is not you. She has different likes and dislikes and different interests. For many teens, the feeling of not being recognized as individuals is very real and frustrating.

Showing your love and support as a parent by just telling them, “I support you in what you want to do in your life,” can make all the difference. And don’t forget to tell your teen that you believe in him. Because the teen years are uncertain times, your child may not feel so sure that they will succeed.

Take the time to remind your child that you believe he can do whatever he sets out to do. Offer your support. Tell your teen,“I believe in you.”

“Children need active parents who are interested in their lives and want to be a part of them. We must be parents first, but also shift that relationship as they get older into a friendship,” Smith says.

913-227-4764

NEW FACILITY

7-31-12

7-31-12

Kansas City mom Gina Klein is a writer/author/photographer who can’t seem to tell her two daughters she loves them enough! (Is there such a thing as too many ‘I love yous?’)

kcparent.com july 2012

21

PATRIOTIC POPS What could be more fun and festive for the 4th of July or the Olympic games than these adorable patriotic cupcake pops!

With our suggestion of sandwich cookies and cream cheese, getting to the fun part of decorating is fast and easy! This no-bake recipe is a favorite with kids, and not only is it delicious, but it’s so easy to make.

Supplies You’ll Need:

No-Bake Cake Pop Dough:

Decorating:

1. My Little Cupcake’s Cupcake Shaped Mini-Mold™ 2. 1 pkg. sandwich cookies (Oreo preferred) 3. 7 oz. cream cheese 4. Red candy melts 5. White candy melts 6. Red, white and blue sprinkles 7. Red or blue M&Ms, American paper flag or Stars and Flags Icing Decorations by Wilton.

8. Red, white and blue curling ribbon.

16.6 oz. sandwich cookies 7 oz. cream cheese

1. Dip the base of chilled cupcake into melted red candy wafers.

(Candy wafers should be melted but not hot).

In a food processor, grind cookies until they are fine crumbs. Hand mix with cream cheese. When well mixed, let sit for 10 minutes.

Preparing Cupcake Shapes: 1. Roll dough into 1” balls 2. Chill in refrigerator until well chilled and firm.

3. Place chilled ball into mold and press.

4. Wipe off excess dough from sides of mold. Open and remove cupcake.

5. Place finished cupcake on parchment paper and re-chill in refrigerator until very well chilled and firm to the touch.

Tip: A corn cob fork or lobster fork can be placed in the top of the cupcake to help make dipping the base of the cupcake easier.

2. Place lollipop stick into cupcake base.

3. Dip top of cupcake into white candy melts 4. Sprinkle with red, white and blue stars.

5. Top with red or blue M&M and American paper flag.

6. Other fun patriotic cupcake toppers include Dubble Bubble in red, white and blue, pinwheels and Stars and Flags Icing Decorations

by Wilton.

My Little Cupcake molds are perfect for making nobake cake pops. Spend less time baking and more time decorating! Visit MyLittleCupcakePop.com to purchase and for terrific ideas.

7. You can add to the festivity with red, white and blue curling ribbon tied around the base of the cupcake!

FOR GREAT RED, WHITE AND BLUE CRAFT ACTIVITY IDEAS, CHECK OUT KCPARENT.COM.

22

kcparent.com july 2012

media mix

Red, White and Blue

Get in the patriotic spirit with these fun picture books for kids.| By McGeath Freeman Madam President

By Lane Smith For Ages 5-10

Grace for President

By Kelly DiPucchio Illustrated by LeUyen Pham For Ages 5-8 When Grace’s teacher unrolls a large poster of the American presidents, Grace is shocked to learn that there are no girls on it.

After sitting and thinking at her desk, Grace finally makes the announcement that she will one day be president. This spurs her teacher to organize a class election. Each student in her class represents a state and can cast the allotted number of electoral votes for that state.

The campaign begins and Grace pulls out all the stops. She gives stump speeches, hands out cupcakes and even begins fulfilling campaign promises before the election. Does it all pay off? You’ll have to read the book to find out.

Amelia Bedelia’s First Vote

By Herman Parish Illustrated by Lynne Avril For Ages 4-8

And one for summer fun…

The excitement of voting day is a little much for Amelia. When asked to deliver a note to the principal, Amelia runs through the halls and crashes into him. While in the nurse’s office, she gets a great idea: The principal should let the students vote on the school’s rules. Her class spends an entire period coming up with suggestions, including ice cream sandwiches for lunch, a class trip to the circus, a fish tank in every room and homework-free Wednesdays. That last one is Amelia’s suggestion.

It is all in good fun and, thanks to a sick student, we learn about absentee ballots. Because Amelia takes everything at face value, discussions of run-offs and swing votes conjure up plenty of humor and fun for young readers in this cute introduction to voting.

Kingdom Keepers #5: Shell Game

By Ridley Pearson For Ages 10-13 Action, suspense and Disney magic combine for a thrill-a-minute story that fans won’t want to put down until the very last page.

The Kingdom Keepers are in high school now, and the dangers for them, their families and Disney as we know it continue to grow. Add to that some teenage hormones, the Disney cruise ships, serious magic and an ever-twisting mystery and you have the perfect book for summer vacation. Unless, of course, you have an over-active imagination and you are vacationing at one of the Disney properties. Ooh scary!

Flag Football • Soccer • Baseball Basketball • Cheerleading

WE’RE LOOKING FOR PHOTOS OF YOUR CUTIES CELEBRATING THEIR

Growing young minds around the world.

PARKVILLE 816.505.3344 PRAIRIE VILLAGE 913.393.0203 LEE’S SUMMIT 816.525.7529

FIRST BIRTHDAYS! VISIT KCPARENT.COM FOR DETAILS ON HOW YOUR CHILD’S PHOTO COULD BE FEATURED IN THE NEXT ISSUE OF KC BABY!

Text and visual comedy are married to deliver a steady dose of political satire even young elementary school children will enjoy in Lane Smith’s Madam President.

Katy explains the ins and outs of being the president with refreshing candor. She behaves as if she is not going to become the president, but already is the president. At one point, she attends the “state funeral” of a pet frog and turns an oral report into a press conference.

There is a great deal of attitude flying around as Katy vetoes tuna casserole. The lyrics for “Hail to the Chief” even praise “her rad administration.”

Not unlike Smith’s John, Paul, George and Ben, this tale knows how to have fun with politics. So much so that it will make members of both major parties laugh… and their children too.

Organized Programs For Boys & Girls 2-14

913-904-0810 Focus on fun, inclusivity, good sportsmanship, and safe play All skill levels! No tryouts!

All instructors background checked and certified FREE Memberships Available

For more information and to sign up as a member, visit www.i9sports.com.

OLATHE 913.393.0203

save

$

20

when you enroll by 12/31/12.

New families only. For more information, call or visit us at gymboreeclasses.com

2012-06_kc_family_ad Thursday, May 31, 2012 18:18 page 1

kcparent.com july 2012

23

SOMETHING ABOUT KC EVERY TEEN SHOULD KNOW:

TEEN

BLOGGERS ANNIE HALL

HANNA SIMS

I’m Annie Hall, a country girl from Harrisonville, MO. But you have no clue where that is now, do you? That’s ok…no one does. I spend my time taking care of things around our little farm, chasing my two brothers and three sisters around, taking pictures of all of the above, scrapbooking and writing.

I’m a 17-year-old Belton, MO, teen, and am very excited to join KC Parent’s Teen Blog team! I love animals, including my pet goat and many more “unique” loveable pets. You’ll always find me reading; I especially love history and biographies. My passion is working with children. On hot summer days, I enjoy frozen yogurt at Yogurtini.

Something about KC every teen should know: Where the nearest QuikTrip is!

Favorite “Best Kept Secret” of Kansas City: 888 Market in Overland Park, where they have the best White Rabbit candies and Hello Panda cookie bites!

24

kcparent.com july 2012

JOSIAH BELL A long time ago, 15 and a half years to be precise, I, Josiah Bell, was born.

I’m a lifelong resident of Raytown, MO, and have been home schooled my entire life. I graduated in May 2012 and plan to start my collegiate career this fall at MCC Maple Woods. When not writing, I am constantly trying to perfect the art of playing guitar and video games at the same time while listening to very loud classic rock.

Something about KC every teen should know: I would tell them the two best things in Kansas City are the Chiefs and BBQ, preferably together.

SEEING A PLAY IN KC’s KAUFFMAN CENTER IS MUCH BETTER THAN SEEING A MOVIE ANY DAY!

Check out the all-new teen blogs at KCParent.com where local teens write of their experiences in Kansas City. From the coolest hang outs, summer jobs, great organizations, hobbies, interests, local attractions and more, discover the best of Kansas City for teens through the eyes of Kansas City teens! Meet our four teen bloggers below.

Annie Hall’s Blog

Wouldn’t it be great if there were still unexplored places? Undiscovered lands?

Great expeditions to seek out the lost…

Something? Sound like stuff of fairy tales or history books? What if “unexplored places” are actually just the back roads of your neighborhood? What if “undiscovered lands” are just a nature trail you never knew about at the park? What if that “great expedition” were real? Wait, that doesn’t fit with the rest of my “what if”-ing. Or does it? Let say that “lost something” isn’t actually lost. Maybe it was just hidden by someone. Hidden treasure? Yes, let’s call it that. You rally

together some friends and explain the journey.

You’re equipped with only a treasure map and survival kit. You show them the map and daydream about what kind of treasure might lie in store, what adventure may await.

Hang on a minute! That sounds more like the beginning of a story than a plan for an actual trip. Or does it? What if I told you that that’s actually how it works? Translate that into normal everyday words. Now what does it sound like? Still strange? Replace treasure map with GPS, and survival kit with water bottle and a snack. Now how’s it sound? Still a bit strange, but much more like something you might actually do.

Anny Heisted’s Blog ANNY HIESTAND My name is Anny. I live in Blue Springs, MO, and love writing, singing, acting and playing with my dog, Lizzy. I love animals and I want to be a writer when I grow up. I also enjoy hiking in the woods and singing classical Italian Something about KC every teen should know: Seeing a play in KC’s Kauffman Center is much better than seeing a movie any day!

Christian Youth Theater, or CYT, is a performing arts class for children ages 5-18. You do not necessarily have to be a Christian to enroll in CYT; Christian Youth Theater invites all religions under its wings.

Its goal is to provide a wholesome haven for children to learn about modest acting, singing, dancing and the best of Christian classics.

CYT is made up of classes. In the spring, fall and winter, CYT has many classes to pick from, such as an opera class, a melodrama class, an improv class and even

classes made to perform a miniature play of a favorite movie! These classes offer a small snack, praise and worship at the end of each class and special prizes for well-behaved younger youth.

CYT is much more than just classes, however. It offers year-round plays for which you can audition. To audition, you must simply participate in a CYT class during that season. (For example, if a play you desire to audition for takes place in the spring, then you must enroll for a spring CYT class.)

kcparent.com july 2012

25

COVER KID CONTEST 2012

WINNERS

Final judging was done by Oliver Al at Lily’s Talent Agency in Chicago.

The three Grand Prize winners will be featured on an upcoming cover of KC Parent. Thanks to the many, many entries we received!

Cover kid proceeds were donated to the Forest Avenue Women’s Shelter in Kansas City, MO.

GRAND PRIZE WINNER

AGE 0-3

MALIA, KCMO

CARTER, LATHROP

SARAH, KCMO

AGE 4-7

SYDNEY, LENEXA

GRAND PRIZE WINNER

JONATHAN, KCMO

26

kcparent.com july 2012

ISYS, KCKS

JARED, LEE’S SUMMIT

GRAND PRIZE WINNER

AGE 8-13

MIA, BLUE SPRINGS

LUKAS, OVERLAND PARK

ALEXANDRA, OVERLAND PARK

KELSEY, MISSION

JORDAN, OVERLAND PARK

not to pay... to pay

or that’s your choice

T

he deliberation about whether to attach an allowance to your child’s chores has been going on for quite some time. Both sides have valid points and concerns. That’s probably why there are so many discussion boards set up online as cyber moms and dads debate the topic.

Parents tend to worry that one wrong judgment or move on their part could cause their child to have an entitled demeanor, make poor financial decisions as an adult or not be goal orientated. Here are the arguments surrounding the choices when deciding to pay or not to pay.

TO PAY

There is little to no education set up in schools to support money management or to teach children how to be responsible with their money. Parents who teach their children the value of the dollar or how to save for special items are instilling in them the essential building blocks for adulthood.

When you pay your child’s allowance for helping with chores, it will also give them a sense of independence and will teach them that when you work hard, you do get a reward. Children that are more motivated or productive can earn more money by doing more jobs around the house. This will teach them that payment is attached to work, and they will have money to manage.

“When I say I pay for chores, I’m not talking a lot of money, maybe one dollar a week, but it’s enough for them to watch their piggy banks grow,” says William Norman from Independence.

NOT TO PAY

We asked KCParent.com readers, should allowance be linked to chores?

The major reason why some families don’t pay for chores is their concern that if they start paying for their child to do chores, they will have to pay them every single time they want something done around the house. Children might put price

Yes, great way to begin to teach financial responsibility

47%

No, kids should do chores since they are a part of the family, not because they will be paid

53%

tags on every single chore, no matter how big or small. Other families feel that everyone is a valuable member of the family and they have a very important role that allows the family to function properly. Everyone participates in the day-to-day chores.

“The family cannot function with me doing all the work by myself, and my children need to know that they won’t be paid as adults to keep up their household, so why should we start now?” says Alexandria Benson from Kansas City, MO.

LET’S MEET IN THE MIDDLE

We can all agree that it’s important to teach children responsibility and show them how to work hard for something.

Maybe instead of giving them cash every time they complete a task, you can create a reward system. Sit down with your child and write a list of all the things they like to do that are special, things like going out for ice cream, having a sleepover or renting a new videogame. Make a chore chart and when a task or assignment is completed put a star next it.When they have filled up their chart by week or month (you decide), let your child pick what goal they would like fulfilled. By establishing a reward system, your child will still understand they are an important part of a working household, learn how to set goals, work hard for something and feel the gratification of achieving those goals.

“The whole give/no give thing for me is teaching my children to take some responsibility for their actions, understand the value of money and also discover, that there are much greater things in life than money,” says Calista Duskin from Grandview.

Jennifer Duxbury is a freelance writer from Belton who won’t be paying for chores but will be rewarding for good grades.

kcparent.com july 2012

27

Let us bring our ZOO to you!

The MagiComedy of Reggie Gray

THE MAGICOMEDY OF REGGIE GRAY 816.606.6815

for mentioning this ad. Exp. 7/31/12 July 31, 2012.

Specializing in childrens & family entertainment for all occasions!

MAGIC • JUGGLING • LIVE ANIMALS www.DiscoverTheMagicInYou.com

party guide

KC Parent’s

KC MOM PARTY TIPS

MOONWALKS WATER SLIDES CONCESSIONS

Treasure hunts are always a big hit but keep it simple. Decorate a shoebox with some tin foil and construction paper, and you have a treasure chest.

Fill the chest, hide it in a sandbox or under a blanket and give the children a treasure map. They can be pirates hunting for buried gold!

Sara Thimen, Lenexa

Where kids come to play!

10% OFF Weekend Party Olathe location

$7.50, $1.50 OFF 2(reg. per group)

Open Play Both locations

913-441-9200

www.FunServicesMidwest.com

28

kcparent.com july 2012

Monkey Bizness 20800 W. 151st St. Olathe, KS 66061 913-780-2500

$50 OFF Saturday Parties July Only Shawnee Only $249 & up

Litttle Monkey Bizness 12219 S.M. Pkwy Shawnee Mission, KS 913-631-7000

monkeybizness.com | littlemonkeybizness.com Visit us on facebook: Little Monkey Bizness Shawnee & Monkey Bizness Olathe

FU N R UN

1919 Industrial Dr. Liberty • 816.781.0386

Largest Indoor Play Centers in the Northland!

6501 N. Cosby Picture Hills • 816.741.0386

$20 off

Outdoor Rental & Receive 1 Free Child’s Admission to Indoor Facility

$1 off

Indoor Pony Parties

General Admission

To book call 816-741-0386 or email rentals@funrunkansascity.com

FunRunKansasCity.com

fresh ideas + terrific themes + great venues

Need more ideas?

KCParent.com has a list of great books to consult when planning your child’s next birthday party.

Get together with one or two other friends whose children’s birthdays are near your child’s and host a group party. This works especially well for children under the age of four. You’ll save a lot of money by splitting the expenses between a few families.

Shawn Simms, Kansas City

KANSAS CITY 7-31-12

LASER TAG

Throw an outdoor laser tag party!

Rent our taggers. Play anywhere. We come to you.

GET YOUR GAME ON

913-232-2692

www.KansasCityLaserTag.com kcparent.com july 2012

29

PONIES & PRINCESSES

TYKES & TRANSFORMERS

IS THIS WHAT LITTLE BOYS AND GIRLS ARE MADE OF?

D

o your children’s toys leave you wondering: What happened to

pretend play? It’s called gender marketing and there is seemingly no escape for parents who feel imprisoned by pink and purple princesses and/or blue- and green-toned warriors and rescue heroes.

30

kcparent.com july 2012

I was half convinced my daughter was perpetually stuck in the Disney princess phase from age 2 until well after kindergarten, when she finally branched out to clothes that included some denim (still sparkly, though). She took her brother along on this fantasy, dressing him as whatever prince or pirate she needed to complete the day’s adventure. Now, at 15, her “costumes” involve more spandex and kneepads than dresses, but she still likes to wear the latest clothes and accessories.

Her 12-year-old brother remains mired in the high adventure world of Transformers and Halo. That leaves me wondering, what are the long-term effects of the non-stop

There is no little girl in the wired, industrial world who does not seek to display her allegiance to the pink-and-purple-clad Disney dynasty.

Barbara Ehrenreich

sales pitch? Apparently, there are several schools of thought, but no easy answers.

IT’S THE PRODUCT, NOT THE PLAY

Disney and Mattel receive the lion’s share of the criticism, as their brands limit children’s choices to a predominantly “girl choice” or “boy choice.” Disney’s “princess mythologies” creator Andy Mooney responds: “… [They] expand their imaginations through the princess characters and move on.” Yet, those removed from Mooney’s market-based interests strongly disagree. Dr. Judith Myers-Walls of Purdue University has found, “Even if programs may not have a strong influence on how children behave on a day-to-day basis, they can have a subtle impact on desensitization to injustice and the creation of subconscious attitudes.”

Before they reach high school, children view 350,000 television commercials, which include more than 25,000 princess-related products alone. To counter this, start analyzing commercial messages with your children at an early age.

Comment on how different a toy may be in real life vs. what is shown during a short commercial. Notice how the girls in the program are often not shown doing things your daughter enjoys—playing a sport, climbing or building with Legos. Authors Sharon Lamb and Lyn Mikel Brown offer age-appropriate conversations in companion books Packaging Girlhood and Packaging Boyhood.

Kara Thompson, marriage and family therapist in Lenexa, agrees the media strongly influences a child’s idea of “what I should be toward others.” Young girls watching videos and playing “princess” internalize the message that girls should be “sugar, spice and everything nice,” preferably dressed in pink with a little purple. Boys, on the other hand, demonstrate or “externalize” their roles: using physical adventures, bravery and charm, rejecting all things pink. Parents must address these stereotypes, says Thompson, so that the family’s beliefs shape the child’s self-image. Teach them who they are without outside influences. Then, discuss how something they want measures up against what they believe and how they want to treat others.

MEDIA LIMITATIONS

PRESSURED TO BE SOMEONE ELSE

A 12th grade girl interviewed for a recent Girls, Inc. survey stated, “We’re pressured everyday to be someone [who] someone else wants us to be.” The survey also found that girls drop sports after middle school because of this pressure and because sports are considered “unfeminine.”

These pressures can’t be directly attributed to toy marketers, but these girls’ responses point to what other studies have demonstrated: the pressure to be physically attractive has markedly increased since 2000—when Disney began marketing princesses en masse rather than as individual heroines. Granted, a variety of media expose today’s youth to sexualized images of girls and women, but Disney’s multi-billion dollar princess empire is a major player. Girls in particular are told they must live up to the media’s expectations. And, a large part of the image includes dressing “right” and being model thin.

Finally, don’t become over-zealous.

Observe your children’s interactions and listen to their dialogue. If they are not tying each other up with the Batman cape, it’s fine. However, don’t ignore the power of the media that surrounds them. Engage in their world, no matter what phase they are exploring.

Kathy Stump writes from Parkville, where the cable is still connected, but her two teenagers’ screen-time is limited (except for the daughter’s cell phone).

Kara Thompson offers some practical things parents can do to limit media consumption—and she has done it!

Scrutinize your media habits.

Remember: children are watching you.

Provide structure around media time: discuss when, how much and what is allowed.

Eliminate video games during the week.

Limit outside influences.

Talk with other adults, especially friends’ parents, about acceptable video/computer games for your children.

Cut off the cable.

Thompson switched to Netflix only; the children select from the “Just For Kids” section. kcparent.com july 2012

31

Special Advertising Section

and nurturing environment. Whether your child has first words or first grade on the horizon, come see how we prepare your child for success in school and beyond. Visit www.KinderCare.com or call 1.877.KinderCare (877.546.3372). See display ad on pg. 37.

Interactive Education Guide available at KCParent.com

KC Parent’s

Education Guide

Interactive Education Guide available @ KCParent.com

Early Childhood All 4 KIDS Christian Day Care & Preschool

Offering full- and part-time daycare and preschool for ages 1-5, our focus is to provide a Christian learning environment while helping parents to grow the whole child both spiritually and intellectually. Our age based Christian curriculum will promote the love of reading, the world of numbers, values and character building. Quality teachers will sing, read, talk and listen, and your child will feel secure in their home away from home. See display ad on pg. 33. 913.764.0300. www.All4KidsChristianDaycare.com

Building Blocks

Building Blocks is a privately owned and oper-

“The Building Blocks for your Child’s Future”

“The Building Blocks for your Child’s Future”

Child Development Center • Preschool, Pre-kindergarten & Child Care • Starting at age 2 1/2 • Open 7:00 am - 6:00 pm • Located at College & Lackman in Southlake Technology Park • Privately owned & operated

913.888.7244

www.buildingblockscdc.com

ENROLLING NOW!

32

kcparent.com july 2012

ated child development center for children ages 2½ - pre-kindergarten. At Building Blocks our goal is to enable your child to learn and experience life though a hands-on approach in an atmosphere where they feel good about themselves and the world around them. Field trips, computer classes and summer swimming lessons are also offered at an additional fee. Building Blocks is located at College & Lackman in Southlake Technology Park.

913.888.7244. See display ad on pg. 32. www.BuildingBlocksCDC.com

KinderCare Learning Center Discover KinderCare Learning Centers, where everything we do is designed for learning. Every activity and lesson in our classrooms is created to help your child explore, share and grow in a safe

Special Beginnings Early Learning

Serving the community for over 20 years, Special Beginnings has 4 JOCO locations in Lenexa, Olathe and Overland Park. Special Beginnings provides a quality program within a safe, loving, Christian environment. The programs have earned NAC national accreditation. Well-balanced, pre-academic curriculum includes art, music, cooking, and an innovative early wellness program. Serving infant through school age children. Open 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. M-F. See display ad to receive a $100 tuition credit. See display ad on pg. 37. www.SpecialBeginningsOnline.com

Wee Workshop

Wee Workshop has been serving Southern Johnson County for nearly twenty-two years as a family owned business. Full time childcare is offered for ages two weeks to five years.

After school and full time summer care is also provided. Additional programs offered include part-time Preschool for ages three to five during the school year, and Mother’s Day Out for ages one and two. We’re open year round, Monday through Friday, 6:30 a.m.-6:00 p.m. Call 913.681.2190 (OP) or 913.681.2191 (Stilwell) for more information. See display ad on pg. 33. www.WeeWorkshopChildCare.com

Elementary - High School Accelerated Schools of Overland Park

For over 30 years, Accelerated Schools of Overland Park has provided individualized learning programs that help students who do not “fit If your child is facing challenges in school, “excelling” may seem out of reach. We specialize in working with students who don’t always “fit into the box.”

For more than 30 years, concerned parents have turned to the Accelerated Schools for individualized learning programs that help students of all academic levels with unique educational needs overcome challenges and excel academically.

The after school Learning Center provides individualized tutoring for students in grades 1-12.

• Accredited • Grades 4 - 12 • Daily Report Cards • Low Student-Teacher ratio • Effective Reward System • Transportation Available

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

in the box” overcome challenges and excel academically. The school provides a structured environment, low teacher/student ratio, daily reports to parents, realistic homework expectations, and an effective reward and management system. Developing strong study skills and scheduling a wide variety of educational field trips are important components of the program.

See display ad on pg. 32. 913.341.6666 or www.AcceleratedSchoolsOP.org.

Brookridge Day School

We believe that the secret to learning is within the child rather than the method. We offer an education with positive, enriching experiences inside a loving environment. Our goal is to create a classroom where the child is exposed to as many different ways to learn as possible, enhancing the probability of successful learn-

Wee

Workshop

Child Development Center Ages Two Weeks to Twelve Years Part Time Preschool • Mom’s Day Out Two Convenient Locations:

127th & Antioch 913.681.2190

162nd & Metcalf Ave 913.681.2191

Family Owned and Operated since 1990

weeworkshopchildcare.com Our dedicated teachers have a combined total of over 125 years of childcare experience. Their kindness provides a warm and loving atmosphere for your child. This includes many hours of hands-on activities. Wee Workshop is your home away from home.

ing for every learner. Ballet, tap, gymnastics, Tae Kwon Do offered on campus. Before & after school care included. Tours: 913.649.2228. See display ad on pg. 37. www.BrookridgeDaySchool.com

tendent-Elect, Mark Schultze. 913.631.0637. See display ad on pg. 36. www.MA-KC.org

Missouri Military Academy

Missouri Military Academy is one of the premier all-boy private military boarding schools in the country. Educating young men in grades 6-12 for more than 120 years. MMA has an impressive record of college admission and thousands of accomplished alumni who have assumed positions of authority in business, finance, law, education, the arts and the military. Located in Mexico, Mo., MMA’s boarding and activities programs offer 11 varsity sports, marching band, drama, Army JROTC, Cadet Chorus, drill team and Boy Scouts. For more information see our website. 573.581.1776. See display ad on pg. 36. www.MissouriMilitaryAcademy.org

Maranatha Christian Academy

Those who believe a quality education should include an emphasis on the development of Christian character, wisdom beyond the accumulation of information and knowledge, and a lifestyle of service and responsible citizenship would feel right at home at Maranatha Academy. Besides a rigorous academic curriculum, students have many avenues in which to excel, including athletics, visual or performing arts, National Honor Society, Scholar Bowl, student council, community service, yearbook, journalism, and more. We welcome the new Superin-

PACE

UMKC’s degree program for working adults

The Program for Adult College Education (PACE) enables full-time working adults to earn bachelor’s degrees. Classes meet in flexible weeknight, weekend and independent study formats.

The degree programs offered through PACE will help prepare you for a number of professional career fields or graduate studies in areas such as:

Education Law Allied health and medical programs Commercial economics and business-related areas

Classes begin soon.

Call the PACE office today.

816-235-1588 www.umkc.edu/PACE Ask about UMKC financial aid and scholarships opportunities. an equal opportunity/affirmative action institution Relay Missouri: 1-800-735-2966 (TT), 1-800-735-2466 (voice)

THE UNIVERSIT Y OF MISSOURI-K ANSAS CIT Y: A UNIVERSE OF KNOWLEDGE IN A CIT Y OF OPPORTUNIT Y.

w w w. u m k c . e d u kcparent.com july 2012

33

education guide the medicine go down – like when their advanced English teacher assigns a ton of active reading over the weekend.

Despite the benefits, however, I have had students struggle to use eReaders as academic texts: digital notes “crash,” bookmarks “disappear” and batteries die. Those are definitely problems students do not face with an old-fashioned book.

e-books and education

What Do the Schools Say? Most school districts do not have specific guidelines for the use of personal eReaders in the classroom, but many local leaders are looking for ways to use that technology to enhance education. The present trend is to allow students to bring PDs for appropriate academic use at the discretion of individual instructors.

Liberty Public Schools – Liberty is currently launching a case study to examine ways personal devices (including eBooks) can be used to support learning in the classroom.

Students’ personal laptops, eReaders and even cell phones are finding their way into the district’s study and the teachers’ lesson plans.

34

kcparent.com july 2012

Park Hill School District – Park Hill is one of the area leaders in technology use and has recently explored the possibility of replacing textbooks with eReaders. With funding always an issue, the district looks to find creative ways to bring the newest devices to its students.

Blue Valley School District – Blue Valley, like most districts, offers grants to teachers who may apply to purchase technology devices for their classrooms.

Also interested in replacing textbooks with eReaders, Blue Valley encourages teachers and students alike to utilize today’s technology to increase readership among its students.

DIGITAL DILEMMA

N

ook. Kindle. Sony Reader. Today’s technology has changed your local library from brick and mortar to 7.8 ounces of silicone and plastic. With today’s youth among the primary consumers of new technology, eReaders are quickly making their way into homes and classrooms, and the debate rises: What, exactly, are the pros and cons of digital books?

DIGITAL DELIGHT

As an English teacher, I want my students to get their hands on books in any form that will encourage them to read. eReaders hold hundreds of books, are portable and, while they can initially be expensive, generally have loads of free books (especially classics) for download. Jonathan Enders, a college freshman entering William Jewell’s Oxbridge Honors Program this fall, uses an eReader primarily for convenience: “eBooks are cheaper, I can bring them anywhere while only carrying one thing and I can type whatever notes I need.”

Initial cost of an eReader notwithstanding, eBooks are less expensive than their paper counterparts—often significantly so—and provide a number of benefits for readers. eReaders are lightweight and easily readable. Adjustable backlighting eliminates the need to find suitable reading light and zooming and font resizing make any size text accessible. Many students’ favorite feature, however, is that note-taking in the newest eReaders is quite dynamic, with search, edit and delete capablities, sometimes providing just the right “sugar” to make

eReaders, while convenient, have their drawbacks. Battery life is short (you won’t have a hard-copy ‘die’ on you after 4-6 hours). They can cause the same eye strain as any computer screen, are susceptible to nasty bugs that can crash books and notes and eReaders are not necessarily sturdy. If you spill your hot tea on them, step on them or crunch them in a 50-pound backpack, your entire library (and your expensive eReader) just went down.

Additionally, many stand somewhat transcendentally by old-fashioned books, happily hefting the weight of paper and binding in their hands. Jordan Went, Liberty North High School junior, is an avid reader but prefers hard copies to digital. “I like to dog-ear the pages… to physically turn them.” He holds up a hard-covered 1056-page copy of A Dance with Dragons. “There’s just no way I’d rather read this on an eReader. I want to feel it in my hands.” Many readers prefer the aesthetics of paper books, and hard copies are especially preferable in the case of textbooks and other large-format books where there are many different elements on a given page.

In the end, high-achieving students are always good readers, and to be good readers, students need ready access to good books. Many students enjoy the portability, accessibility and technological tools that come along with eReaders, which all encourages them to read more and more often. For many, though, the decision between digital or traditional comes down to a simple matter of preference.

The question of book or eBook is seemingly a personal one. The important thing for our young people is, digital or hard copy, to keep turning the page.

Kimberly Brownlee is the proud wife of a KCPD officer, mother of three boys and college level composition and gifted English instructor at Liberty North High School.

YOUR CHILD can

Thrive

Online public schooling means individualized learning for every student.

Often, a one-to-one approach is what it takes to realize a child’s innermost possibilities.

As the leader in K–12 online education, K12 offers tuition-free, online public schooling that adapts to fit every child.  Innovative, proven curriculum  Passionate, certified teachers  Flexible pacing, individualized learning It’s the choice between a child trying to fit the school, or a school that fits your child.

K12 programs are available in Kansas through the Lawrence Virtual School (K–8), Lawrence Virtual High School (9–12), iQ Academy Kansas (7–12), and Insight School of Kansas (7–12 and adult learners interested in completing high school).

We are accepting applications for the current school year in all of our programs.

Visit us online for full details and upcoming events.

VISIT K12.com /KSSchoolS CALL 855.753.7149 kcparent.com july 2012

35

Discover the Difference...

For 123 years, Missouri Military Academy has offered a college prep education that prepares young men for college and beyond. As an all-boy boarding school, we are the place for young men who desire a rich, challenging educational environment that develops leadership skills and fosters lifelong friendships with students from around the world.

Learn more about us at MMA’s Open House Kansas City event on July 19.

We’ll provide food and refreshments, camaraderie, and the opportunity to talk about MMA - past, present, and future.

July 19

7-8:30 p.m.

Sullivan’s of Leawood

http://info.missourimilitaryacademy.org/kcopenhouse

Colleges and Universities Johnson County Community College

With 100+ transfer agreements with area colleges and universities, you choose a specific major here and take the courses needed to complete your degree at a four-year school.

JCCC also offers 50+ one-year certificate and two-year associate degree and certificate programs. JCCC students find time for fun!

Concerts, plays, comedians, movies, sports, 50+ special interest clubs, student governance, lectures and campus forums are some of the activities students enjoy. 913.469.3803. See display ad on pg. 36. www.JCCC.edu

UMKC PACE Program

The Program for Adult College Education (PACE) enables full-time working adults to earn bachelor’s degrees. Classes meet in flexible weeknight, weekend and independent study formats. Prepare for a professional career field or graduate studies in areas such as: Education, Law, Allied Health, Medical Programs, Commercial Economics and business-related areas.

Classes begin soon. Ask about financial aid and scholarships opportunities. 816.235.1588 An equal opportunity/affirmative action institution. See display ad on pg. 33. Relay Missouri: 1.800.735.2966 (TT), 1.800.735.2466 (voice). www.UMKC.edu/PACE

Creating your story at JCCC …

MCA offers more, check us out and see!

MCA

“You can do it! You can totally do it!”

Nicole, Student Johnson County Community College 12345 College Blvd., Overland Park, KS 913-469-3803 | www.jccc.edu “Like” JCCC at facebook.com/JCCC411

36

kcparent.com july 2012

Enrichment Lawrence Virtual School/Lawrence Virtual High School/iQ Academy Kansas

Lawrence Virtual School and Lawrence Virtual High School, full-time, tuition-free online public schools for Kansas students in grades K-11, and iQ Academy Kansas, serving grades 7-12, offer award-winning curriculum, Kansaslicensed teachers, a supportive community, and extracurricular activities. Both schools help students statewide achieve their own academic potential, tuition free. Get more information at www.K12.com/ks or ww.iqacademyks.org. See display ad on pg. 35. LVS/LVHS: 866.644.8320, iQKS: 877.345.4757

Special Beginnings Early Learning Center

PT or FT schedule M-F 6 am to 6 pm

now open at 6:00 am

Accredited Kindergarten thru 3rd Grades.

Infants to 12 years

Preschool Accreditation through K.D.H.E. Parent Friendly Hours - 6:45am to 6:00pm.

Minutes from 69 Hwy., I-35 & I-435.

Rapid Road to Reading

The Rapid Road to Reading learning center provides one-to-one interactive instruction for students K- 6th grade. Our program incorporates a variety of instructional methods that result in high rates of literacy achievement.

While learning to recognize the sounds of letter combinations and sight words, students master skills needed to crack the code of reading. The emphasis on expanding our students’ vocabulary and teaching them to associate nouns with images and verbs with actions is integral to improving reading comprehension.

913.317.5515. See display ad on pg. 32. www.RapidRoadToReading.com

Full-time / Part-time Preschool Available.

Quality Christian early care and education for over 20 years!

OLATHE

Infants-Prekindergarten 14169 Murlen Rd 913.393.2223

OVERLAND PARK Infants-School Age 8205 W 108th Terr 913-378-1075

LENEXA

10216 Pflumm Rd, 913-894-0131 Register TODAY & receive $100 credit upon enrollment!

Enrolling now for 2012-2013

kcparent.com july 2012

37

Camping at home is a great way to get your kids used to camping

BACKYARD

before trying a campground, or it can simply be something fun to do on a nice weekend.

CAMPING B

Whether you’re a first-time camper or a veteran backpacker befuddled by the challenges of carting a brood—and all the requisite gear— into the great outdoors, in THE DOWN AND DIRTY GUIDE TO CAMPING WITH KIDS by Helen Olsson you’ll find all the tips and tools you need to plan the perfect nature adventure with your family.

Discover foolproof tips and tactics for keeping kids happy and entertained while hiking. Explore nature through clever and creative camp arts and craft projects. This guide is your game plan to unplugging from the digital world and connecting your kids to nature.

38

kcparent.com july 2012

efore we had kids, my husband and I went camping quite often. We would pack everything we needed for two days into our backpacks and set out on a grand adventure through the Colorado Rockies, eating food cooked over a gas stove and sleeping in a tiny tent. We naturally wanted to share this love of the outdoors with our children, but we found that camping with kids is not exactly the same experience. Kids require way too much stuff, they might get scared in the middle of the night and they don’t have the kind of stamina it takes to hike in 8 miles before setting up camp. So, we compromised and started off by camping with our kids in the backyard. Camping at home is a great way to get your kids used to camping before trying a campground, or it can simply be something fun to do on a nice weekend.

Here are some fun ideas on how to make camping at home a grand adventure!

Plan Ahead.

If you want your first try at camping to be successful, plan it for a mild weekend with no rain in the forecast. Gather camping supplies from friends and family or pick up a few essentials if you plan to make a habit of camping. Garage sales are a great place to find used tents and camp-

ing supplies. At a minimum, you will need a tent, sleeping bags and flashlights…everything else you can improvise!

Set up Camp.

Sure…your house is 10 feet away, but when you set up camp, make sure to pull out all the stops! Put up your tent, sleep in sleeping bags, bring flashlights or lanterns and set up camp. Have your kids pack what they need in a backpack (including pajamas, favorite toys, glow sticks, etc.). Try not to go inside unless nature calls! Oh, and leave the cell phones, game systems, iPads and laptops inside!

If you’ve got a campfire or a flame of some kind, roast hot dogs and marshmallows

YOU SCREAM, For ideas on how to I SCREAM, turn an ordinary hike WE ALLinto an or geocaching adventure, SCREAM visit KCParent.com FOR ICE CREAM

for s’mores over the fire (use real sticks...it’s more woodsy!).

Gather ‘Round the Fire.

If you have a self-contained fire pit, that will make a great campfire. If you don’t have one, even a couple of candles make good marshmallow roasters in a pinch!

And if you’re leery of using real fire, make a pretend fire by collecting sticks around the yard and crumpling up orange, red and yellow tissue paper. Proceed to sing songs around your campfire.

Take a Hike!

You may live in the middle of the city, but that doesn’t mean you can’t go on a hike. Create a scavenger hunt for your kids by making a list of things for them to find (such as birds, types of trees, seeds or other things they can observe or collect) and set out on your mission. Or do as Kansas City mom Jill Nelson suggests and go on a “Quarter Walk,” which involves walking until you hit an intersection, then flip a coin. Heads, you go right; tails, you go left. See where you end up!

Fun and Games.

Play good old-fashioned games in your yard, like tag, hide and seek and Simon says. Make crafts of outdoor materials, like dream catchers from twigs, twine and flowers, or decorate a birdhouse or stepping stone to keep in your backyard as a reminder of your fun campout. Keep things simple…the kids will love the change of pace!

Roast Some Weenies.

If you’ve got a campfire or a flame of some kind, roast hot dogs and marshmallows for s’mores over the fire (use real sticks…it’s more woodsy!).You can also try banana boats. Slit each banana lengthwise through the peel, making sure not to cut all the way through to the other side. Stuff the bananas with marshmallows and chocolate chips, then wrap each in foil and cook over a fire, in the grill or in the oven for about 5 minutes or until the chocolate chips are melted.

After Dark.

The real fun starts when the sun goes down! Print out constellation maps before your campout so you can star gaze and pick out the ones you recognize. Make shadow puppets in the tent, make forest animal noises, play flashlight tag, tell scary (or not-so-scary) stories around the campfire—and forget getting them to sleep by “bedtime.”

Sweet Dreams.

When the evening winds down, snuggle into your sleeping bags and enjoy the fact that if it starts to rain, or if someone has a bad dream, or if the kids refuse to stop giggling and go to sleep or if it gets too cold or hot, you are only steps away from the comfort of your home!

Sara Keenan camps with her husband and two kids in Brookside occasionally and will be trying a real campout at a Missouri State Park this summer.Wish them luck!

the kids lean the sticks against him, bonfire-sty place, the children take turns sneaking up to t single stick. If the fire child detects movement, the stick stealer. The child who was caught the the child who can spirit away the most sticks wh

scav

If you center nature tailore use th checkl Includ and ro anima and sc list is time, h numbe Unl hunt, lect all like pi collect site. O ders an get ch doubt, object

scavenGeR hunt

∏ Bird nest ∏ Bird feather ∏ Pine needles ∏ Leaf buds ∏ Leaf with smooth edges ∏ Leaf with jagged edges ∏ Tree roots ∏ Smooth bark ∏ Rough bark ∏ Dark rock ∏ Light rock ∏ Insect holes ∏ Flying insect ∏ Crawling insect ∏ Buzzing insect ∏ Spiderweb ∏ Animal burrow ∏ Animal tracks Excerpted from THE DOWN AND DIRTY GUIDE TO CAMPING WITH KIDS by Helen Olsson, (c) 2012. Published

—————————— by arrangement————————————————————–—— with Roost Books, an imprint of Shamb- 1 5 1 —–————— hala Publications, Inc., Boston. RoostBooks.com

kcparent.com july 2012

39

july

The NEW KCParent.com calendar now has 10x MORE EVENTS!

CALENDAR

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

40

kcparent.com july 2012

Heart of America Shakespeare Festival

see

watch

camp

help

do

Watch the night skies illuminate with sparkling fireworks displays as we celebrate our independence! Visit KCParent.com for a comprehensive list of 4th of July fireworks displays all over KC.

Through July 15, enjoy a free showing of two Shakespearean plays at the Heart of America Shakespeare Festival. Bring a blanket and a picnic and enjoy theater under the stars. Visit KCShakes.org for a schedule.

Gather your camping equipment and attend the Great American Family Campout on July 14 at the Theatre in the Park. Enjoy a family campout in the safety of the largest park in JoCo! $15-$20.

913.831.3359

Head to Faulkner’s Ranch on July 21 for the Pancakes and Ponies event to raise money for SIDS Resources.

Pancakes, petting zoo, face painting, duck races and more! $10/person, 2 and under free.

816.761.1234

Every Saturday through October, Cedar Cove Feline Sanctuary hosts a public feeding of the cats! Watch the big cats enjoy a big meal. $5/person. 913.837.5515

1 SUNDAY

Firecracker Weekend Thru Wed, 9:00, Paradise Park. Receive a free medium Pepsi with the purchase of a Max Pak unlimited wristband.

816.246.5224 Special Swim Experience 9:00, Matt Ross Community Center. Join other families and people with disabilities in this special swim session. Free.

913.895.6390 First Sunday Family Fun Day Noon, KC Museum.

Have fun as a family while having an exceptional learning experience. Free. 816.483.8300 The Stinky Cheese Man 2:00, Paul Mesner Puppets. Enjoy a zany version of the classic tale we all know and love. 816.235.6222 Meet Me at the Museum 2:00, Kemper Museum of Art. Join a Kemper Museum docent for a lively discussion and tour the current exhibits.816.753.5784 Hairspray Thru Aug 26, various showtimes, New Theatre Restaurant. The beloved Hairspray comes to stage with all the songs you love! 913.649.SHOW Sunday Night Family Swim 6:00, Frontier, Millcreek & Oregon Trail Pools. Just $10/family gets you an evening of fun! 913.971.8563

Heart of America Shakespeare Festival Thru July 15, 6:00, Southmoreland Park. Two well-known Shakespearean plays are performed. KCShakes.org Free Music in the Park 6:30, Rotary Park at Railroad Lake. Every Sunday this summer, enjoy great music outdoors! BlueSpringsGov.com Music in the Park 7:00, Santa Fe Commons Park.

Listen to music outdoors with family and friends!

Bring blankets and lawn chairs. OPKansas.org

2 MONDAY

3 TUESDAY

Happy Birthday USA Thru Wed, 9:00, Paradise Park. Celebrate with fun, holiday-themed activities in Children’s EduTainment Center. 816.246.5224 Once Upon a Mattress 11:00 & 1:30, Coterie Theatre. A fun musical based on The Princess and the Pea. 816.474.6552 Family Night 4:00, Little Monkey Bizness. Enjoy a family fun night! Admission is only $6. Pizza available for purchase. 913.631.7000

Fairy Houses & Forts Thru Oct 7, 9:00, Powell Gardens. Visit a magical world of childhood fantasies come true with this exhibit. 816.697.260

Independence Day Celebration & Fireworks 5:00, Lions Park. Celebrate our independence in historic Lexington. HistoricLexington.com/events

Moms FREE Monday 9:30, Paradise Park. Moms are free at the Children’s EduTainment Center with a paid child’s admission. 816.246.5224

Legacy Blast 6:00, Legacy Park. Bring a blanket for the family to sit on while enjoying fireworks choreographed to music. 816.969.1500

Early Bird Special 10:00, Little Monkey Bizness. Admission is only $5 plus tax before 10:00!

913.631.7000

Give ‘Em Hell, Harry 7:00, Liberty Performing Arts Theatre. A one-man play about Truman’s life and presidency. 816.439.4362

Preschool Story Time 11:00, Blue Springs South Library. Enjoy literacy-rich books, music and movement and crafts at story time! 816.229.3571

FREE Concert: Ernest James Zydeco 7:00, Downtown Liberty. Ernest James Zydeco performs at our summer concert series. 816.439.4360

Flags for Freedom Thru July 7, Merriam Marketplace. More than 3,000 flags fly to honor our veterans and active military. Flags4Freedom.org

The Addams Family Thru Sun, 8:00, KC Starlight Theatre. The smash-hit musical comedy that everyone will love. 816.363.STAR

The Princess and the Pea brought to life as a musical comedy!

May 19 - OctOber 7, 2012

JUNE 19 - AUG 5

Fairy houses and forts to inspire, amuse and ignite an interest in exploring the great outdoors, all at Kansas city’s botanical garden. It’s a garden adventure you won’t want to miss!

Funded in part by Missouri Arts Council, a state agency

Coterie Summer Theatre and Performance Camps offered at 6 sites: Parkville, Liberty, Lee’s Summit, South Kansas City, Plaza and Overland Park.

816.697.2600 | www.powellgardens.org kcparent.com july 2012

41

4 WEDNESDAY: INDEPENDENCE DAY

Stars and Stripes 5K and Lil Firecracker Fun Run 7:00, Summit Fair. Runners, walkers and kids alike can sign up for this event! 816.607.5420 Village Fest 7:30, Prairie Village. Chris Cakes breakfast, bike rodeo, children’s parade, patriotic service, vendors and much more. PVKansas.com Independence Day Celebration 1812 9:00, Fort Osage. Celebrate the 4th of July, 1812 style!

816.503.4860

For a list of fireworks displays all over the Metro, visit KCParent.com.

Independence Day Celebrationn 1855 9:00, Missouri Town 1855. Celebrate Independence Day in the 1850s with fun-filled activities. 816.503.4860 Lenexa Community Days Parade 10:00, Downtown Lenexa. Plan to attend this hometown tradition with a parade, floats and much more! 913.477.7100 Military Appreciation Day 10:00, Cool Crest. As a thanks to all those who have served, all military play for free today! 816.358.0088 Food Fun with Kids 6:00, K-State Olathe (22201 Innovation Dr). Explore new foods, techniques and hands-on activities. 913.971.8563 KC RiverFest Berkley Riverfront Park. KC RiverFest brings our community together for a fun family celebration. 816.960.3400

5 THURSDAY

Weekly Reading 10:00, Grinter Place. Explore books related to pioneer life, native people and cultural traditions, followed by a craft. 913.299.0373 CoCo Salutes Scouts 10:00, CoCo Key Water Resort. Girl Scouts pay only $5 for a day pass today when you show us your badge! 816.737.0200 4th of July on the Trails 2:00, National Frontier Trails Museum. Learn about how pioneers celebrated their only holiday. 816.325.7575 Family Fun Nights 5:00, Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop and Farm. Enjoy an evening on the farm with a different theme each week. 913.971.5111 Free Moonlight Movies 9:00, Independence Square. Enjoy an outdoor showing of Kung Fu Panda 2 with friends and family. FreeMoonlightMovies.com

6 FRIDAY

MLB All-Star Fan Fest Thru Tue, 9:00, KC Convention Center. This is the largest baseball fan event in the world! Ticket packages available. AllStarGame.com Kidscape 10:00, Johnson County Museum. Drop in for the summer arts program every Friday in July! 913.715.2550 Paint Me a Story 10:30, Paint, Glaze & Fire. Friday mornings just got more fun!

Little ones can create masterpieces in our store. 913.661.2529 Free Friday Night Concert 6:30, Howard Station Park. Bring lawn chairs or blankets to sit on and enjoy the music. DowntownLS.org First Fridays 7:00, Crossroads Art District. Galleries and shops remain open late on the first Friday of each month. KCCrossroads.org FREE Summer Concerts 7:00, Frontier Park. Sam Bush and Kelley Hunt perform in our free summer concert series. OlatheKS.org Ice Cream Social Train Ride 7:00, Belton & Grandview Railroad. A 5-mile,

42

kcparent.com july 2012

kcparent.com july 2012

43

Summer Day Camps for Kids and Young Adults with Autism and Other Developmental Disabilities

45-minute round trip train ride with ice cream. $9.50/ea. 816.331.0630 Hello Dolly Thru Sun, 8:30, Gladstone Amphitheatre. Seating begins at 3:00. Bring your chairs and blankets at 3:00 to reserve your spot. GladstoneTip. com Free Friday Night Flick-Moneyball 9:00, Crown Center Square. Bring your blanket and lawn chairs and watch Moneyball under the stars. 816.274.8444

EXPERIENCE THE UNFORGETTABLE CAMPS OF

CLO’S FARM! T H G I N D I

M

4th of July Specials Thru July 8, Cool Crest.

Celebrate the 4th of July weekend with great offers and deals at Cool Crest. 816.358.0088

7 SATURDAY

Fair Ball: Negro Leagues in America Thru July 27, Union Station. Theatre for Young America performs this show about exemplary courage.

816.460.2083 Fishing Tournament 8:00, Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead. Fishing fun for kids at this annual fishing tournament. 913.897.2360

Horsin’ Around Camps for Children With or Without Special Needs

learn more at: www.midnight-farm.org

Kids Workshop 9:00, Home Depot store locations.

Our free workshop is fun and educational for kids!

Call your local store for more details.

HomeDepot.com Summer on the Farm 10:00, Shawnee Town 1929. Learn about summertime on a 1920s Shawnee farm. 913.248.2360 Patriotic Day and Picnic 10:00, Battle of Lexington State Historic Site. Celebrate our nation’s troops and heroes through a patriotic day and picnic.

660.259.4654 Bump City Preschool Area 10:30, Gage Center.

Join us for a morning of fun in the Bump City and preschool area. 816.220.7775 Summit Fair Kids Club 11:00, Summit Fair. Come to Summit Woods Crossing for a free, hands-on experience! SummitFairShopping.com Comedy Magic Show 1:00, KC Improv. The funniest magicians are here to entertain the whole family at The Improv! ImprovKC.com

FREE Take Me Out to the Museum!

Tuesday, July 10 The museum opens its doors an EXTRA DAY in honor of the All Star game in Kansas City.

10 a.m.–4.p.m. FREE admission to Inventing the Modern World: Decorative Arts at the World’s Fairs,1851–1939.

1–4 p.m. FREE baseball-themed games, art projects, scavenger hunts & activities for sports fans of all ages. kcparent.com

KCParentAd July12.indd july 2012 44NelsonAtkins

1

Annual Kansas City Sculpture Park Family Festival: Hand Built!

Sunday, July 15 Noon–4 p.m. Art activities, the interactive “Picnic Project,” StoneLion Puppets and newEar Contemporary Chamber Ensemble, a special parade and picnic food.

6/11/12 12:14 PM

Stargazing Program 8:00, Powell Observatory.

Program includes an astronomy talk, an observatory tour and a viewing of the night sky. 913.837.5305

8 SUNDAY

All-Star Game Charity 5K & Fun Run 7:30, Downtown KC. This charity run/walk benefits three different charities. AllStarGame.com/5K Shawnee Mission Triathlon Shawnee Mission Park. Come out and watch athletes compete in three events! Children’s Fun Run follows at 10:00.

JCPRD.com

Art of the Machine Car Series 10:00, City Market.

Enjoy a great day under the City Market Pavilion!

816.842.1271 Free Music in the Park 6:30, Rotary Park at Railroad Lake. Every Sunday this summer, join us for great music outdoors! BlueSpringsGov.com

9 MONDAY

Summer Bowl for Kids’ Sake Thru Fri, 6:00, Park Lanes and Lucky Strike. Participate in our largest annual fundraiser for Big Brothers Big Sisters.

SummerBowl.org

12 THURSDAY

Weekly Reading 10:00, Grinter Place. Explore books related to pioneer life, native people and cultural traditions, followed by a craft. 913.299.0373

Shaving Cream Marble Art 9:00, Mill Creek Activity Center. 4- & 5-year-olds can make a swirled masterpiece with just shaving cream and food coloring! 913.831.3355

CoCo Salutes Scouts 10:00, CoCo Key Water Resort. Boy Scouts pay only $5 for a day pass today when you show us your badge! 816.737.0200

Open Play Day 10:00, Cool Crest. $10.99/person gets you unlimited mini golf, two go-kart rides and 10 arcade tokens. 816.358.0088

Bumper Bowling 10:00, Mission Bowl. Bring your preschooler 5 and under to the alley every Thursday for bowling fun! 913.432.7000

10 TUESDAY

Raw Food Tasting Class 6:00, Barry Road Hy-Vee. Learn about raw foods and try samples before you buy them. $10/spot reservation. 816.505.1000

Let’s Move Thru July 27, 9:30, Jody Phillips Dance Company. Free program for kids to help them learn about a healthy lifestyle. 913.897.9888 Take Me Out to the Museum 10:00, the NelsonAtkins. The museum opens its doors for an extra day.

Free fun all day! 816.751.1ART

Once Upon a Mattress 11:00, Coterie Theatre. A fun musical based on The Princess and the Pea. 816.474.6552

Girls Growing Up 6:30, Olathe Medical Center. 3rdto 5th-grade girls and their moms will be guided through the changes of puberty in a relaxed setting.

OlatheHealth.org Summer Sounds 6:30, Park Place. Live music fills Barkley Square every Thursday. Tonight, bring the kids to listen to the Doo-Dads.

ParkPlaceLeawood.com

11 WEDNESDAY

13 FRIDAY

Geo-Kids 10:00, OP Arboretum. This is a basic instruction class for children ages 6-12 on use of a compass, GPS devices and geocaching.

913.685.3604 Dream Dinners Summer Olympics 10:00 or 11:00, Dream Dinners. Kids 9+ can attend a special cooking session! 913.491.6733 Wagons Ho! 10:00, National Frontier Trails Museum. Explore life on the trails during the 90-minute program. 816.325.7575 Museum Kids Summer Drop-Ins 10:00, Kansas City Museum. Wednesdays and Fridays in July and August are filled with fun! 816.483.8300 Adventures in Learning 1:00, Toy & Miniature Museum. Attend a gallery talk and create something to take home. 816.235.8000 First Aid for Kids 6:00, Olathe Medical Center.

Information is kid-friendly with opportunities for hands-on experience. 913.791.4312

• • • • • • • • • • • •

From periscopes to painting, it’s an exciting summer!

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Hairspray Thru Aug 26, various showtimes, New Theatre Restaurant. The beloved Hairspray comes to stage with all the songs you love! 913.649.SHOW

Memphis Thru Sun, 8:00, Starlight Theatre. Explosive dancing, irresistible songs and a thrilling tale of fame and love. 816.363.STAR

Pop N Play 9:00, Johnson County Museum. Join us for special activities designed for kids ages 9 months to 3 years. 913.715.2550

A Summer of Family Fun!

Julybration Sale Thru Sun, 10:00, Indian Creek Library. Stop in this weekend for our summer book sale! 913.971.5235 Enchanted 3:00, Powell Gardens. Bring the entire family to the gardens for an evening of fun.

For reservations, call 816.697.2600 x209.

Family Night 4:00, Little Monkey Bizness. Every Tuesday and Friday, enjoy playing and pizza with the whole family! 913.631.7000

Adventures in Learning Wednesdays!

Talks and Tours, 1& 2 pm Hands-on workshop, 1 - 3:30 pm

July . . . . . 11 Fabulous French Miniatures July . . . . . 18 Nettie Wells Dollhouse July . . . . . 25 Fashion Dolls August . . . . 1 German Toys August . . . 8 Surprise Program August . . 15 Make Your Own Periscopes

YMCA Kids’ Night Out 5:00 (Paul Henson), 5:30 (Miami County) & 6:00 (Blue Springs). Enjoy a night out while the kids have fun! KansasCityYMCA.org Second Friday Art Crawl 5:00, Downtown Excelsior Springs. Enjoy a night of free art entertainment in several galleries and shops! 816.637.2811 Tweens’ Night Out 6:00, Paint Glaze & Fire. Bring your friends and enjoy pizza, painting and fun while parents have a night out! 913.661.2529 Geocaching 6:00, Shawnee Mission Park. Kids are sure to love this modern day scavenger hunt with GPS devices.913.831.3355

For more information and a full list of summer programming, visit www.toyandminiaturemuseum.org & click on ‘Calendar’.

kcparent.com july 2012

45

Paint the Night 6:00, Park Place (Leawood). Enjoy food, fun and music at the 2nd annual Park Place summer street party. 913.381.2229 Kansas Symbols 7:00, Ernie Miller Nature Center.

Meet live examples of our state reptile and amphibian. 913.764.7759

14 SATURDAY

Tractor Daze & Mud Run 9:00, National Ag Center.

Enjoy a full day of family fun with hayrides, farming demonstrations and more activities. 913.721.1075 25th Annual Antique and Craft Fair 9:00, Bingham-Waggoner Estate. Browse through

crafts, antiques and more from Midwest vendors.

816.461.3491

Kid’ Fun Fest 10:00, KC Zoo. Explore the wonders of stars, planets and moons. 816.513.5800

Lenexa Midnight Bike Hike 9:15, Black Hoof Park. Join hundreds of bicyclists for the 17th annual Lenexa Midnight Bike Hike! 913.477.7100

Public Safety Day 11:00, Liberty Memorial.

Activities, vehicles and other agencies will be on hand to promote children’s safety and wellness.

816.500.2729

Babysitter Safety Class 9:30, Olathe Medical Center. This 6-hour class is for ages 11-15 who wish to learn helpful tips and techniques. 913.791.4312 Smoke Along the Trails State BBQ Championship Today & tomorrow, Weston. This competition is held at the old rail depot. WestonMO.com Summer on the Farm 10:00, Shawnee Town 1929. Learn about summertime on a 1920s Shawnee farm. 913.248.2360

Second Saturdays 1:15, Crossroads Art District. A monthly education and enrichment program with a walking tour and presentations. KCCrossroads.org The Great American Family Campout Today & tomorrow, 2:00, Theatre in the Park. Enjoy a family campout in the safety of the largest park in JoCo! 913.831.3355

JULY FESTIVALS & FAIRS IN KC Flags for Freedom June 30-July 7, Merriam Marketplace.

More than 3,000 American flags on display. Concerts, ceremonies and festivities throughout the event honoring the American Armed Services.

Also enjoy music at the marketplace: Free FRIDAY NIGHT Concert Series weekly through mid-August at 6:30 at the Merriam Marketplace (5740 Merriam Dr.). All events are familyorientated and free of charge.

913.384.5440

46

kcparent.com july 2012

Parkville 4th of July Festival July 4-7, English Landing Park. Bring the whole family for a taste of good old-fashioned Americana. The traditional salute to Independence Day includes a parade, carnival rides, fireworks and more!

816.505.2227 KC Riverfest July 4, Berkley Riverfront Park. Since 2005, KC RiverFest has been recognized as Kansas City’s premier Independence Day festival on the Missouri River. Hosted by the Friends of the River-KC (FOR-KC) and produced

by EventPros Inc., KC RiverFest is known as the only

place in downtown Kansas City to celebrate the Fourth of July. Admission charged.

816.960.3400 Cass County Fair July 17-22, The Cass County Fair continues to grow and attract bigger crowds each year for such events as the motocross, a Wednesday night arena concert, the demolition derby, nightly entertainment in the Miller Pavilion, the highpowered tractor pull and, of course, two nights of MRCA-sanctioned rodeo.

PleasantHill.com

Amelia Earhart Festival July 20-21, Atchison. 16th annual celebration of the life of the famed aviatrix.

Highlights include a downtown fair with arts and crafts, live entertainment, food vendors and children’s activities, panel discussions with authors and researchers, award luncheon, carnival rides, aerobatic performances, aviation displays and spectacular fireworks over the Missouri River.

800.234.1854

Platte County Fair July 18-21, Platte County Fairgrounds. Oldfashioned county fair: games, rides, carnival, food & music! The fair has been an annual event in our community since the first fair in 1863.

816.431.FAIR KC Fringe Festival July 19-29, Crown Center. Now in its eighth year, the KC Fringe Festival is a city-wide celebration of local, regional and national artists. 816.516.4750 Douglas County Fair July 21-Aug. 5, Lawrence. Petting zoo, pony rides, demolition derby, tractor show, live concerts, turtle races and carnival.

DGCountyFair.com

Miami County Fair July 21-28, Paola. Youth rodeo, carnival, races, parade, demolition derby, bike derby, dog show, horse show, pancake breakfast and concerts.

MiamiCountyFair.com

Wyandotte County Fair July 24-28, Wyandotte County Fairgrounds. Oldfashioned county fair: games, rides, carnival, demolition derby, food, 4-H events, petting zoo, music and more!

913.788.7898

Saturday Night Feeder 4:00, Cedar Cove Feline Sanctuary. Every Saturday through October we host public feeding of cats! 913.837.5515

Starlight | Peter Pan | July 24-29

YMCA Kids’ Night Out 5:00 (Independence, Platte County North & South, Prov/Ball), 5:30 (Richard C Green, Sr) and 6:00 (Red Bridge). Enjoy a night out while the kids have fun! KansasCityYMCA.org Father-Son Campout 6:30, Cornerstone Park.

Enjoy an All-American summer night with just you and dad! Register by July 6. GardnerKansas.gov Stargazing Program 8:00, Powell Observatory.

Program includes an astronomy talk, an observatory tour and a viewing of the night sky. 913.837.5305 Free Summer Movies 8:45, Mulberry Lake. Bring blankets, chairs and snacks and watch our featured movie Cowboys and Aliens. BriarcliffVillageKC.com

15 SUNDAY

Presidential Pitch Noon, Truman Library. This small exhibit explores the ties between Harry S Truman and baseball. 816.268.8200 National Ice Cream Day 2:00, Vavra Park. Join us for a fun afternoon with activities, a DJ, free ice cream and more! 913.322.5550 Sculpture Park Family Festival Noon, the NeslonAtkins. Art activities, StoneLion puppet, music, a special parade and more! 816.751.1ART

Log onto KCParent.com to win tickets to Peter Pan. Open Play Day 10:00, Cool Crest. $10.99/person gets you unlimited mini golf, two go-kart rides and 10 arcade tokens. 816.358.0088 Kidscape 10:00, Johnson County Museum. Beat the heat and come inside our museum for a hands-on exhibit your kids will love! 913.715.2550

Funky Mama Live! 6:30, Cass County Library. Your favorite Funky Mama performs for free at the library in Belton! 816.331.0049

17 TUESDAY

Zoo-nique Adventure 9:15, KC Zoo. Join Maize Virtual Prep School for a free day at the zoo and to learn about the curriculum. Pre-reg 316.462.8800

How Great Thou Art 2:00, Chestnut Fine Arts Theatre. An inspirational show filled with gospel favorites and magnificent voices. 913.764.2121

16 MONDAY

Fairy Houses & Forts Thru Oct 7, 9:00, Powell Gardens. Visit a magical world of childhood fantasies come true with this exhibit. 816.697.2600

kcparent.com july 2012

47

Preschool Summer Fun Days 10:00, First Baptist Raytown. Free themed days on Tuesday and Thursday for preschoolers, through July. 816.778.1125

Summer Reading Series 10:30, Kemper Museum.

Area children’s librarians will select books related to Dodd’s paintings. 816.753.5784

Bumper Bowling 10:00, Mission Bowl. Bring your preschooler 5 and under to the alley every Thursday for bowling fun! 913.432.7000

Hairspray Thru Aug 26, various showtimes, New Theatre Restaurant. The beloved Hairspray comes to stage with all the songs your love! 913.649.SHOW

Once Upon a Mattress 11:00 & 1:30, Coterie Theatre. A fun musical based on The Princess and the Pea. 816.474.6552

Briarcliff Farmers’ Market 3:00, Briarcliff parking lot. Buy quality produce that is 100 percent organic, fresh and local. BriarcliffVillageKC.com

Breastfeeding Support Group 1:00, Olathe Medical Center. Hosted by a lactation consultant who can support and guide you. 913.791.4200

Adventures in Learning 1:00, Toy & Miniature Museum. Visit the Nettie Wells Dollhouse workshop and create a miniature book. 816.235.8000

Family Fun Nights 5:00, Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop and Farm. Enjoy an evening on the farm with a different theme each week. 913.971.5111

Food Fun with Kids 6:00, K-State Olathe (22201 Innovation Dr). Explore new foods, techniques and hands-on activities. 913.971.8563

Breastfeeding Support Group 1:00, Liberty Hospital Education Center. Hosted by a lactation consultant who can support and guide you. 816.781.7200

Summer Sounds 6:30, Park Place. Live music fills Barkley Square every Thursday night for you to enjoy with family and friends. ParkPlaceLeawood.com

CPR for Kids Class 5:30, Olathe Medical Center.

Learn basic CPR skills for the adult, child and infant.

913.791.4312

Open House 7:00, Sullivan’s of Leawood. Enjoy food and drink while learning all about Missouri Military Academy. Info.MissouriMilitaryAcademy.org

Girls’ Night Out... BUNCO! 7:00, Shawnee Civic Centre. We provide the snacks and prizes. You bring your girlfriends for a night out! 913.631.5200

Free Moonlight Movies 9:00, Independence Square. Enjoy a showing of Alvin and the Chipmunks: Chip Wrecked. FreeMoonlightMovies.com

19 THURSDAY

20 FRIDAY

18 WEDNESDAY

Pancakes for Penguins 8:00, KC Zoo. Sign up for Chris Cakes pancakes and bring the penguins to the KC Zoo! 816.513.5800 Wacky Weekend Painting 9:30, Shawnee Civic Centre. Create two pieces of ocean painting on a quality canvas. 913.631.5200 Fancy Nancy Sees Stars 10:00, Riverside Library.

Have fun listening to a “Fancy Nancy” story and playing with a box of dress-up items afterwards.

816.741.6288

Rumplestiltskin... Recycled?!? Thru July 31, 10:00, Metcalf South. Call Martin City Melodrama for dates and showtimes. 913.642.7576

BURIED TREASURE: PIRATE ADVENTURES IN KANSAS CITY

Sailing the seven seas, fighting sea monsters, searching for buried treasure… the adventure, the mystery, the loot!

Children love tales of pirate adventures.

This summer, take your buccaneers on an adventure in Kansas City.

is filled with timeless magical moments and a captivating hook. KCStarlight.com

Watch Pirates on Stage!

Peter Pan at Starlight July 24 -29, KC Starlight Theatre. Tony Award nominee Cathy Rigby takes flight in an all new production of Peter Pan! Discover all over again the magic of this two-time Emmy award-winning and two-time Tony award-nominated production as Peter Pan fights off Captain Hook and his band of pirates. The New York Times says, “Rigby still carries off the flights, fights and acrobatics that make Peter Pan audiences mesmerized.” Peter Pan

48

kcparent.com july 2012

Baby Time Story Time 9:30, West Wyandotte Library. This program is designed for infants ages 6 to 23 months and their caregivers. 913.596.5800

Hunt for Buried Treasure with Pirates Pirate Ship Cruises at Longview Lake. On 2nd and 4th Saturdays in July, you can enjoy a special pirate-themed cruise on Longview Lake. Take a boat ride, then, as pirates “attack the boat,” kids help them discover buried treasure! Reservations are suggested. $12/adults, $7/ children 12 and under. Also available for parties and groups. 816.966.0131 Say Arrrrrrrrrgh! This summer you can learn to be a pirate at the local library.

Pirates for Dummies: TWO Programs Blue Springs South Mid-Continent Public Library (July 5, 2:00-3:00) and South Independence Mid-Continent Public Library (July 28, 2:00-3:00). What happens when a jester decides to give up entertaining

and join the pirates? Find out in this great interactive show with Cornelius the jester and Bess the gypsy bard. The gypsy and the jester bring laughs with stories, jokes, silliness and share how to be a pirate.

Catch a ride on the Happy Faces Entertainment pirate ship before it sets sail.

Play on a Pirate Ship! There are several parks in the Metro with wonderful pirate ship-themed playgrounds for kids. These are perfect settings for parties and everyday play!

Olathe’s Frontier Park (15501 Indian Creek Pkwy.) is the home of a pirate ship playscape. This park is guaranteed to capture the imagination of your little buccaneers!

Shawnee’s Listowel Park (71st & Quivira).

This park is known as “Pirate’s Park” among neighborhood kids. The playground is equipped with a pirate ship with a captain’s wheel, flag and sails.

Lee’s Summit’s Williams-Grant Park (401 SE Howard St.) features a pirate ship playground.

JULY 2012 Proof Kidscape 10:00, Johnson County Museum. Drop in for the summer arts program every Friday in July!

913.715.2550 Paint Me a Story 10:30, Paint, Glaze & Fire. Friday mornings just got more fun! Little ones can create masterpieces in our store. 913.661.2529 2012 Back to School Supply Giveaway/ Health Fair Noon, House of Refuge Youth Center.

Receive free school supplies and enjoy fun activities.

816.763.2500

USA BABY IS FOR BIG KIDS TOO! GUESS WHAT? WE AREN’T JUST FOR BABIES!

COME IN TODAY FOR $50 OFF A BIG KID BED!

Englewood Art Walk 5:00, Englewood Shopping District. See art demonstrations, hear live music and enjoy refreshments. 816.252.3372 Parents’ Night Out 6:30, McCracken’s Gymnastics.

Children enjoy group games and fitness activities while you have a night out. $20. 913.782.8555 Music at the Marketplace 6:30, Merriam Marketplace. Bring a lawn chair and enjoy listening to local musicians outdoors every Friday. 913.322.5550 Free Jamaican Jam Concert 7:00, Lee’s Summit City Hall Plaza. Food and drink vendors will be on sight for this free concert event. CityOfLS.net

$50 off

any BIG KIDS bed

Discount applies to regular/special value price. Cannot be combined with other offers or sale promotions. One discount per customer/household. Expires 7/31/12.

Free Summer Concerts 7:00, Frontier Park. Enjoy a night out with family and friends and some great free blues music!

7275 W 105th Street • OP, KS 66212 • 913.962.1503 • usababyks.com

Ice Cream Social Train Ride 7:00, Belton & Grandview Railroad. A 5-mile, 45-minute round trip train ride with ice cream. $9.50/ea. 816.331.0630

Free Friday Night Flick 9:00, Crown Center Square. Bring your blanket and lawn chairs and watch Hitch on our huge outdoor screen. A great date night! 816.274.8444

THANK YOU

Movies in the Park 9:00, Oak Grove Park. Bring blankets and lawn chairs to see Puss in Boots on the big screen. Concessions available.

Gladstone.Mo.Us

21 SATURDAY

Party in the Park 9:00, Swope Park. Enjoy free or low-cost family-friendly activities all day long!

816.513.7527 Ponies and Pancakes 9:00, Faulkner’s Ranch.

Join us for family fun to benefit SIDS research.

816.761.1234 Big Brand Event 10:00, Children’s Orchard (Olathe & Independence). Give the kids the clothes they want at the prices you prefer! ChildOrch.com Kids, Water, Bugs, Fish 10:00, Lakeside Nature Center. Learn about the bugs in our streams, the fish that eat them and the quality of the water.

816.513.8960 Community Day 10:00, Linwood YMCA. Connect

for supporting Paradise Park for the past 20 years!

Present this coupon for a

FREE

Mini Golf Ticket Not valid with an other coupons or special offers.

One coupon per family. Expires 8/15/2012. KCP

www.Paradise-Park.com

1021 NE Colbern Rd. Lee’s Summit, MO 64086 816.246.5224 kcparent.com july 2012

49

TRAIN RIDES

with friends and neighbors with activities for all ages.

816.923.5675 Summer on the Farm 10:00, Shawnee Town 1929. Learn about summertime on a 1920s Shawnee farm. 913.248.2360 Sprint Family Fun Days 11:00, Power & Light District. Bring out the family for some free fun, activities and great atmosphere. 816.877.8319

Train$9.00Rides

Kids under three FREE

Regular Trains Depart Sat & Sun, 2 pm [May - Oct] Sat., 11 am [June - Aug only] Ice Cream Train $10.00, June - Aug, 7 pm Charters • Field Trips or Birthday Parties, plan by appointment.

Tickets go on sale one hour before train departure time.

Belton, Grandview & Kansas City Railroad Co. 502 Walnut •Belton, Missouri 816-331-0630 • www.beltonrailroad.org

JUST WHAT YOU WANT THE BEST WEEKEND PLANNER FOR FAMILY FUN IN KC! JOIN THE 14,650 PEOPLE WHO ALREADY ENJOY OUR WEEKLY E-NEWS.

Missouri Wine Festival Noon, Elms Resort and Spa. Leave the kids with a sitter for a night out of wine tasting, arts, music and more. 816.630.5500 Comedy Magic Show 1:00, KC Improv. The funniest magicians are here to entertain the whole family at The Improv! ImprovKC.com James Taylor 7:30, Starlight Theatre. Plan ahead and reserve your tickets for a relaxing evening out with the music of James Taylor. 816.363.7827 Stargazing Program 8:00, Powell Observatory.

Program includes an astronomy talk, an observatory tour and a viewing of the night sky. 913.837.5305 Free Summer Movies 8:45, Mulberry Lake. Bring blankets, chairs and snacks and watch our featured movie, Wall-E. BriarcliffVillageKC.com Fishing Overnight 11:00, Heritage Park. The park is open for fishing only and police will be on patrol throughout the night. 913.888.4713

22 SUNDAY

Family Day: Celebrate Summer Noon, Kemper Museum. Explore Lois Dodd’s paintings of nature, make your own sun print and enjoy a treat.

816.753.5784 Inventing the Modern World Thru Aug 19, Noon, Nelson-Atkins Museum. See decorative arts from the world fairs from 1851 to 1939. 816.751.1278 Free Music in the Park 6:30, Rotary Park at Railroad Lake. Every Sunday this summer, join us for great music outdoors! BlueSpringsGov.com Movies on the Lawn 9:00, Elms Resort. Enjoy a movie and popcorn on our lawn for only $1. Concessions available. 816.630.5500

SUBSCRIBE TODAY AT KCPARENT.COM PLUS, JOIN OUR 7,500+ FACEBOOK FOLLOWERS!

FACEBOOK/KANSASCITYPARENT

50

kcparent.com july 2012

23 MONDAY

Fairy Houses & Forts Thru Oct 7, 9:00, Powell Gardens. Visit a magical world of childhood fantasies come true with this exhibit. 816.697.2600 Open Play Day 10:00, Cool Crest. $10.99/person gets you unlimited mini golf, two go-kart rides and 10 arcade tokens. 816.358.0088 Preschool Story Time 11:00, Blue Springs South Library. Children ages 3-6 can come for stories, crafts and games. 816.229.3571

24 TUESDAY

Toddle Time 9:00-11:00, Matt Ross Community Center. Fun and enriching open playtime for ages 5 and under. $1-$2/child. 913.895.6390

Farmers’ Market 4:00, Zona Rosa. Every Tuesday enjoy fresh produce, homemade jams, breads, herbs and much more. ZonaRosa.com Girls Growing Up 6:30, Olathe Medical Center. 3rdto 5th-grade girls and their moms will be guided through the changes of puberty in a relaxed setting.

OlatheHealth.org Disney’s 101 Dalmatians Thru Thu, 7:30, The Barn Players Community Theatre. Tickets only $5.

Children 4 and under free. 913.432.9100 Peter Pan Thru Sun, 8:00, KC Starlight Theatre.

Cathy Rigby takes flight in an all-new production of Peter Pan! 816.363.STAR

25 WEDNESDAY

Pop N Play 9:00, Johnson County Museum. Join us for special activities designed for kids ages 9 months to 3 years. 913.715.2550 Exotic Animals R Us 10:00, Riverside Library.

Come see a baby kangaroo, fox, monkey, porcupine and more at the library! Pre-reg. 816.741.6288 Museum Kids Summer Drop-Ins 10:00, KC Museum. Our transportation theme features games, music, stories, arts and crafts. 816.483.8300 Preschool Summer Fun Days 10:00, First Baptist Raytown. Free themed days on Tuesday and Thursday for preschoolers, through July. 816.778.1125

Summer Reading Series 10:30, Kemper Museum.

Area children’s librarians will select books related to Dodd’s paintings. 816.753.5784 Peter Pan Thru Sun, 8:00, KC Starlight Theatre.

Cathy Rigby takes flight in an all-new production of Peter Pan! 816.363.STAR The Art and Marionettes of Robert Leroy Smith Tue-Sat thru July 31, Puppetry Arts Institute. This is the final month for this exhibit! 816.833.9777

26 THURSDAY

Toddling Troops 9:00, KC Zoo. PreK-aged children and their parents are invited to walk the trails every Thursday. For FOTZ members. 816.513.5700 Bumper Bowling 10:00, Mission Bowl. Bring your preschooler 5 and under to the alley every Thursday for bowling fun! 913.432.7000 Weekly Reading 10:00, Grinter Place. Explore books related to pioneer life, native people and cultural traditions, followed by a craft. 913.299.0373 Stellaluna Puppet Show 10:00, Central Library.

out & about

Steamboat Arabia Museum

T

Steamboat Arabia Museum 400 Grand Blvd.

Kansas City, MO 64106 816.471.4030 1856.com Hours: Mon.-Sat., 10:00-5:40 (last tour begins at 4:00); Sunday, Noon-5:00 (last tour begins at 3:30). Guided tours are available every 30 minutes, on the hour and half-hour.

Admission: $14.50/adults, $13.50/seniors, 45.50/children (4-12), Free/3 and under Hot Tips: • Handicap & stroller accessible • Free parking available • Cameras welcome

he Missouri River was infamously dubbed “too thick to drink and too thin to plow,” making its waters something of a burial ground for steamers in a day and age when the Great Missouri was the most effective means of travel to the West. Come discover more than 200 pounds of buried treasure that has been meticulously excavated from one such ship, the Steamboat Arabia!

documentary about Steamboat Arabia’s history. Following that, you can view the cargo gallery that houses a vast (and growing) collection of goods, known as “King Tut’s Tomb of the Missouri River.” Observe the latest work in the preservation lab and stroll along the 171-foot-long replicated deck that houses the original engine, boilers, anchor and paddle wheel support timbers.

Before You Go In the 1800s, one of the most effective means of transportation (for both people and cargo) was the steamboat. Discuss with your children the various means of modern travel, as well as how goods are imported and exported. Check out the museum’s website where you will find a wealth of information to prepare for your visit.

You can view a video narrative and read up on the history of the well-regarded Steamboat Arabia, as well as track updates from the preservation lab. The museum recommends reserving at least 90 minutes for your tour, so plan accordingly.

After Your Visit The Steamboat Arabia Museum includes a gift shop and food service area. Purchase a memento to remember your visit and enjoy a snack in the atrium, all while viewing the Steamboat Arabia’s giant paddle wheel turning in a pool of water.

Neighboring gift shops flank both sides of the museum, and the City Market is in the museum’s backyard. Coupling a trip to the City Market and the Steamboat Arabia Museum makes for a day full of fun. Check out KC Parent’s website for upcoming local festivals that celebrate the rich history of the 1850s and 1860s in Kansas City, as well.

While You’re There Tours are partially guided, providing you opportunity to ask questions and view the exhibits at your own pace.

Your guide will provide a brief overview and escort you to the Paddlewheel Theater where you will view a

Lauren Greenlee grew up going to Steamboat Arabia and now enjoys taking her children to one of her favorite local museums. She resides in Olathe with her husband and two sons. spring/summer 2012

the ultimate guide to family fun in KC

For over 500 great family-friendly places to visit in KC, pick up a copy of KC Going Places.

SPLASH INTO FUN IN KC

500+ EXCITING PLACES TO VISIT shhh! sneak education into outings berry picking & new parks 8 must-sees this summer

KCGOINGPLACES.COM

StoneLion Puppets present a free puppet show to the public! 816.221.5351 Family Fun Nights 5:00, Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop and Farm. Enjoy an evening on the farm with a different theme each week. 913.971.5111 Summer Sounds 6:30, Park Place. Live music fills Barkley Square every Thursday night for you to enjoy with family and friends. ParkPlaceLeawood.com Family Movie Night 6:30, Antioch Library. The library hosts family friendly movies every 4th Thursday. Snacks provided. 816.454.1306 Jazz on the Square 7:00, Zona Rosa. Dust off the lawn chairs and get ready to fill your summer nights with Jazz on the Square! ZonaRosa.com Free Moonlight Movies 9:00, Independence

Square. Enjoy an outdoor showing of The Muppets with friends and family. FreeMoonlightMovies.com

27 FRIDAY

1

Happy Days Today & tomorrow, 8:00, Performing Arts Center (Leavenworth). The local Rivercity Community Players perform! 913.682.7557

Art Walk 9:00, Brush Creek. Watch artists paint masterpieces and listen to classical musicians play along the Creek. BrushCreekArtWalk.org

July’s Star Party 8:30, HMS Beagle. Hear from our staff astronomer, then head outside for night viewing.

Bring a telescope or use ours. 816.587.9998

Once Upon a Mattress 11:00, 1:30 & 7:00, Coterie Theatre. A fun musical based on The Princess and the Pea. 816.474.6552

Free Movie in the Park 8:45, Meadowmere Park.

Bring lawn chairs, blankets and bug spray and enjoy a movie under the stars. 816.316.4888

Free Summer Concert 7:00, Frontier Park. Pack your blankets and lawn chairs and gear up for our outdoor summer concert series. OlatheKS.org Ice Cream Social Train Ride 7:00, Belton & Grandview Railroad. A 5-mile, 45-minute round trip train ride with ice cream. $9.50/ea. 816.331.0630

28 SATURDAY

Georgia’s Chicken Run 7:30, Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead. Lace up those tennis shoes for our annual chicken run! 913.634.7165 Show N’ Shine 8:00, National Ag Center and Hall of Fame. See an impressive array of trucks and cars.

Fun for all ages! 913.721.1075 kcparent.com july 2012

51

Beach Umbrella Bowl 9:00, Paint Glaze & Fire.

Learn creative techniques in a relaxed atmosphere.

913.661.2529 Brush Creek Art Walk 9:00, Brush Creek. Come out and walk the newly completed, nearly 4 miles of walkways along Brush Creek while classical musicians play and painters paint.

The Brementown Musicians 11:00 & 2:00, Puppetry Arts Institute. Reserve your tickets for this adaptation of Grimm’s fairy tale. 816.833.9777 TAKE Defense Class 10:00, Tomahawk Ridge Community Center. Self-defense workshop for women of all ages. 913.327.6645 Maze Race Noon, Paradise Park. Collect all the missing pieces as you run through our maze as fast as you can for a prize! 816.246.5524 Comedy Magic Show 1:00, KC Improv. The funniest magicians are here to entertain the whole family at The Improv! ImprovKC.com Weston Moonshiners Car Club 3:00, Downtown Weston. Come see the cars starting on downtown Main Street. WestonMO.com Saturday Night Feeder 4:00, Cedar Cove Feline Sanctuary. Every Saturday through October we host public feeding of cats! 913.837.5515

Guys and Dolls Today & tomorrow, 7:00, MidAmerica Nazarene. Christian Youth Theater’s overnight camp presents this entertaining show!

913.681.3318 Missouri Peach Days Thru Aug 5, Lexington.

Sample Missouri’s finest peaches along Hwy 24, the famous Santa Fe Trail! VisitLexingtonMO.com Stargazing Program 8:00, Powell Observatory.

Program includes an astronomy talk, an observatory tour and a viewing of the night sky. 913.837.5305

29 SUNDAY

Fairy Houses & Forts Thru Oct 7, 9:00, Powell Gardens. Visit a magical world of childhood fantasies come true with this exhibit. 816.697.2600 Guys and Dolls 2:00, MidAmerica Nazarene.

Christian Youth Theater’s overnight camp presents this entertaining show! 913.681.3318 Sunday Night Family Swim 6:00, Frontier, Millcreek & Oregon Trail Pools. Just $10/family gets you an evening of fun! 913.971.8563 Music in the Park 7:00, Santa Fe Commons Park.

Music by The Heart of America Barbershop Chorus.

OPKansas.org

30 MONDAY

Bingo! A Winning Musical Thru Aug 19, 7:00,

American Heartland Theatre. A show revealing how love blossoms and old friends reunite. 816.842.9999 Free Play Cedar Ridge Christian Church. Daily free play for young children while you enjoy a coffee break. 913.393.3000 Bahama Bash Teen Night 8:30, Summit Waves.

Grab your friends for a unique event with games, giveaways and a DJ! SummitWaves.net

31 TUESDAY

They Were All Stars Thru Aug 31, 9:00, Negro Leagues Baseball Museum. Celebrate the impact of the Negro Leagues on MLB. 816.221.1920 Toddle Time 9:00-11:00, Matt Ross Community Center. Fun and enriching open playtime for ages 5 and under. $1-$2/child. 913.895.6390 The Barstow Summer Kids Club 10:00, Park Place. Kids ages 3-10 can join us for fun, educational activities. $5. 816.277.0418 Preschool Story Time 10:00, Grandview Library.

Preschoolers ages 3-5 will love our songs, stories, crafts and movement. 816.763.0550 Family Night 4:00, Little Monkey Bizness. Every Tuesday and Friday, enjoy playing and pizza with the whole family! 913.631.7000

KANSAS CITY CYT is an after-school theater arts program for children ages 5-18. Classes are taught throughout the metro by professionals, dedicated to building confidence and self-esteem in students.

For more information visit us at: cytkc.org

52

kcparent.com july 2012

ug. 8 July-A gular adult re n at o

2 ld Save $ n tickets so ffice sio xO admis tate Fair Bo ons: locati uri S Misso se sponsor e and th

Unlim $6 savin ited Daily Deal gs! Availa $2 ble at B 7 and Wa rea lg Includes reens July – A ktime ug. 18 carn and one ival rides for on e -day adu lt admis day sion

®

Advanc e Carniva Unlimited Rid e lW $6 savin ristband $18.9 5 g Walgree s! Exclusively a t ns, July – Augus t8

130.29841 July 2012 KC Parent Print Ad.indd 1

5/16/12 4:04 PM

kcparent.com july 2012

53

54

kcparent.com july 2012

D R E AM DINNERS SUMMER O LYMPIC S

JOIN U S T H I S S U M M E R F O R K I D S C O O K I N G S E S S I O N S! Wednesdays Kids Session

10am – 12Noon OR 11am-1pm July 11 and August 8 Register online: www.dreamdinners.com/119MetcalfKS 9 years and older • Space is limited

Attend all 3 Summer Sessions and receive a special “OLYMPIC” gold medal! kcparent.com july 2012

55

56

kcparent.com july 2012