In this issue...
The Power of Snow by Bob Raczka
What could be better to demonstrate exponents than snowflakes?
Bob Raczka does exactly that in this delightful book that illustrates the concept of exponential growth in a simple way that even young kids can grasp.
Reading math books helps children understand even higher mathematical concepts. As an added bonus, make sure you read the Illustrator’s Note by Bryony Clarkson to learn how she managed to get the right number of snowflakes on every page, all the way up to 16,384.
Bookshelf is a Kids Directory partnership with the Springfield-Greene County Library District. This review was provided to Kids Directory by library staff. Learn more about the library at thelibrary.org
YOUR go-to local resource for all things “Kids”
Each month, we distribute directories to 400+ locations in eight southwest Missouri counties. For a pick-up location near you visit springfieldkids.com/find-a-directory
EVERY DAY
Kids Eat FREE
The original , most comprehensive guide in the Ozarks!
or almost free
Restaurants may modify or temporarily suspend Kids Eat Free offers and operating hours. We do our best to publish accurate information. Please call ahead to confirm offers. Thank you for supporting our local and locally owned and managed restaurants. Want to advertise your restaurant or know about a deal not listed? Email melinda@springfieldkids.com
HuHot, 2825 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-882-0300. Kids age 3 and younger eat free every day. Drink not included. Dine-in only.
Incredible Pizza Company, 2850 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-887-3030. Kids age 3 and younger eat free.
SUNDAY
Houlihan’s, 2421 N. Glenstone Ave., 417-862-7777. Kids’ meals are $2.49 and $3.49. Cannot be combined with offers or coupons.
HuHot, 2825 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-882-0300. 25 percent off for all students with school ID.
King’s Asian Chef, 1336 N. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-866-5527. Free kids’ meal with every adult combo meal or entrée purchased. Choose junior-size cashew or sweet and sour chicken. Limit of three free meals. Dine-in only.
Schlotsky’s, 4132 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-889-2445. Buy one full-priced adult entree and get one kids’ meal free, after 4 p.m.
Dine-in or carry-out.
Moe’s Southwest Grill, 2212 W. Hwy 76, Branson, 417-334-3880. Kids age 9 and younger get a free kid’s meal with purchase of an adult entrée. Child must be present.
Springfield Family Restaurant, 2222 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-883-0900. One free kids’ menu item with purchase of one adult entrée valued at $8 or more, after 4 p.m. Dine-in only. Cannot be combined with other offers.
MONDAY
Amigos Mexican Restaurant, 2118 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-887-1401. After 4 p.m., get one free kid’s meal (for ages 10 and younger) with purchase of an adult entrée. Drink not included.
Bair’s All-American Sports Grill, three locations: 701 N. McCroskey Ave., Nixa, 417-725-3777; 3821 S. Campbell Ave., 417-368-5919, Springfield; 1644 E. Hwy 60, Republic, 417-732-5077. All day, kids eat for $2.99 with the purchase of a regularpriced entrée. Same offer available on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
“Kids Eat Free” Monday offers continue on page 10.
Kids Eat Free! (or almost free)
Pasta Express, four locations:
3025 W. Republic Rd., 417-888-3048; 3250 E. Battlefield Rd., 417-890-1345; 603 S. Kimbrough Ave., 417-862-7833; 321 E. Battlefield Rd., 417-885-0030.
Free kid’s meal for kids age 12 and younger with purchase of an adult entrée, 3-9 p.m. Dine-in only. Springfield Brewing Company, 305 S. Market Ave., Springfield, 417-832-8277. Kids eat free with the purchase of an adult entrée. Dine-in only.
The Roost Bar & Grill, 4216 S. Cox Rd., 417-612-9050; 2025 W. Sunshine St., 417-865-4000. Free kid’s meal with the purchase of an adult entrée, 6-10 p.m. Village Inn, all Springfield locations. Get one kids’ meal for kids age 9 and younger with each adult meal purchased. Offer good all day. Offer also good on Tuesday.
TUESDAY
Continued from page 6
Coyote’s Adobe Cafe, Nixa location only, 807 N. Main St., 417-725-6803. One free kids meal for kids age 12 and younger for each adult entrée purchased, 5-8 p.m. Parents can get all-you-can-eat wings, 5-8 p.m.
Bair’s All-American Sports Grill, three locations: 701 N. McCroskey Ave., Nixa, 417-725-3777; 3821 S. Campbell Ave., 417-368-5919, Springfield; 1644 E. Hwy 60, Republic, 417-732-5077. All day, kids eat for $2.99 with the purchase of a regular-priced entrée. Same offer on Mondays and Wednesdays.
Big Whiskey’s, five locations: in Springfield, 311 E. Park Central Sq., 417-862-2449; 1440 W. Republic Rd., 417-882-2249; and 1550 E. Battlefield Rd., 417-883-5999; 602 N. 25th St., Ozark, 417-485-3800; and 301 Branson Landing, Branson, 417-334-4478. One free kid’s meal with purchase of an adult entrée, 5-9 p.m.
HuHot, 2825 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-882-0300. After 4 p.m., one free kids’ grill meal per adult grill meal for kids ages 10 and younger.
Pizza Ranch, 2825 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-319-5021. One child 10 and under eats free per paying adult, 4-8 p.m.
Prima’s Mexican Grill, Two locations: 3662 S. Glenstone Ave., 417-890-1212, Springfield; 1769 James River Rd., Ozark, 417-582-2776. Dine-in only, 11 a.m.-9 p.m., one free kids’ meal ($5.25 or less) for kids age 10 and younger for each lunch or dinner entrée purchased.
Ruby Tuesday’s, 2725 N. Glenstone Ave., 417-831-7829. After 4 p.m., get one free kid’s entrée with one adult entrée purchase.
Village Inn, all Springfield locations. Get one kid’s meal for kids age 9 and younger with each adult meal purchased. Offer good all day. Offer also good on Tuesdays.
WEDNESDAY
Andy B’s, 1127 E. Battlefield Rd., 417-883-1234. Kids age 12 and younger get a free kids’ meal with every menu item purchase valued at $9 or more.
“Kids Eat Free” Wednesday offers continue on page 12.
Kids Eat Free! (or
almost free)
Continued from page 10
Bair’s All-American Sports Grill, three locations: 701 N. McCroskey Ave., Nixa, 417-725-3777; 3821 S. Campbell Ave., 417-368-5919, Springfield; 1644 E. Hwy 60, Republic, 417-732-5077. All day, kids eat for $2.99 with the purchase of a regularpriced entrée.
Double E Burger & Ice Cream Shoppe, 339 Kentling Ave., Highlandville, 417-587-8018. One free kid’s meal for ages 12 and younger with the purchase of one adult entrée of $5.99 or more. Dine-in only. Cannot combine with other offers or coupons.
Dowd’s Catfish & BBQ Eatery, 1760 W. Elm St., Lebanon, 417-532-1777. One free kids’ meal for each adult meal purchased after 5 p.m. Does not include all-you-can-eat. Dine-in only.
NEW!! S.S. Dockside Grill & Pub, 1528 N. Main St., Nixa, 417-374-7222. All day, gte one free kids’ meal per adult meal purchased. Dine-in only.
Schlotsky’s, 4132 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-889-2445. Buy one regular 10” pizza and get one free on certain pizza selections. Limit 1 BOGO offer when ordering multiple pizzas.
The Catfish Café, 1210 S. Ash St., Buffalo. 417-345-1277. Dine-in only. Kids eat free off kids’ menu, 4-8 p.m. One free kid’s meal per paid adult meal.
Whole Hog Café, 224 W. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-868-0042. After 5 p.m., kids age 12 and younger get one free kid’s plate with purchase of one adult plate, 5-9 p.m. Dine-in only.
THURSDAY
Double E Burger & Ice Cream Shoppe, 339 Kentling Ave., Highlandville, 417-587-8018. One free kid’s meal for ages 12 and younger with purchase of one adult entrée ($5.99 or more). Dine-in only. Cannot combine with other offers or coupons.
FRIDAY
Ruby Tuesday’s, 2725 N. Glenstone Ave., 417-831-7829. All day, get one free kids’ entrée with one adult entrée.
SATURDAY
Rosie Jo’s Café, 1711 S. 15th St., Ozark, 417-581-6047. Get one free kid’s meal with purchase of an adult entrée, 4-8 p.m. Only for children ages 10 and younger.
Healthy Kids & Healthy Families Guide to
Ensuring your child’s health and wellbeing can be some of the most emotional, expensive, and discouraging issues you face as a parent or primary caregiver. We’ve put together a list of quality providers across multiple service lines that can help take away some of the stress and frustration of navigating the world of children’s health, therapy services, and fitness.
Dentistry
Expedition Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics
417-719-7862 • expeditiondental.com
1250 E. Walnut Lawn St. • Springfield
716 W. Mt. Vernon St. • Nixa | 764 US Hwy 60 • Republic
Dr. Jesse Gardner and his team at Expedition Pediatric Dentistry help children grow up with healthy, bright smiles and enthusiasm for their dental health. Dr. Gardner is a board-certified pediatric dentist. He and his team treat each child as they would their own: gently, patiently, and compassionately. They strive to make every visit enjoyable for your child while providing comprehensive preventive and restorative care. Expedition now offers orthodontics at their Springfield clinic. When your child walks out the door with a big smile and says they can’t wait to come back, you know they are on a path to healthy smiles for a lifetime. See ad on page 17.
Fitness
Girls on the Run SWMO
417-763-3646 • gotrswmo.org
Girls on the Run teaches critical life skills through a research-based program. Trained volunteer coaches inspire team members of all abilities to strengthen their confidence through dynamic, interactive lessons and physical activity. With specially designed program for girls in grades 3-5 and grades 6-8, Girls on the Run supports girls where they are in the normal course of development. At the end of the season, all team members complete a 5K event together. The Girls on the Run curriculum is structured to foster social skills and teamwork. Locations for Girls on the Run Southwest Missouri in Greene and Christian Counties are listed on their website. See ad on page 19.
Our Healthy Kids Guide continues on page 16. Feburary
SpringfieldKids.com
Healthy Kids & Healthy Families
Continued from page 15.
Lil’ Kickers Soccer for Kids
Betty & Bobby Allison Sports Town • 209 Airport Blvd. • Springfield 417-530-1600 • allisonsportstown.com
Lil’ Kickers is built on more than 20 years of child-focused fun for toddlers to ‘tweens to develop skills beyond the soccer pitch with creative, high-energy, and age-appropriate activities. Lil’ Kickers at Sports Town starts with “Bunnies” (ages 18-24) months and steps up in focus with older kids. Skills Institute is an intermediate level to help kids improve their technical and tactical soccer skills. Lil’ Kickers and Skills Institute operate on 13-week season, but kids can start at any time. Check out the programs with a free trial. Make-up classes are free during the season, and the open registration is prorated based on when you join. Visit Sports Town’s website for details on birthday parties, too. See ad on page 11.
Ozark Parks & Recreation & The OC
1530 W. Jackson St. • Ozark • 417-581-7002 • ozarkmissouri.com
Ozark Parks & Recreation provides children and teens with fitness opportunities through organized athletic teams for volleyball, baseball, softball, soccer, and basketball; martial arts; gymnastics and ballet; and dance and cheer. The Ozark Community Center–“The OC”–is the fitness hub for the community offering year-round programs for all ages. Kids can take swim lessons at the indoor OC Aquatic Facility and participate in the swim team. The OC also features state-of-the-art strength equipment and free weights, a cardio center, an indoor track, and classes. The Kids Zone gives young children activities while parents are working out or in classes. See ad on page 17.
Ozarks Regional YMCA
orymca.org
The Ozarks Regional YMCA comprises six family centers in Springfield and surrounding communities. The Y is built on programs, services, and initiatives to enable kids to realize their potential; prepare teens for college; offer families fun activities; and empower all people to maintain healthy spirits, minds, and bodies. Visit your local YMCA for a guided tour and see how you and your family can benefit at the Y. The Ozarks Regional YMCA is a nonprofit organization that believes no one should be denied access to membership and programs due to an inability to pay. These funds are subsidized through the YMCA Annual Campaign. See ad on page 23.
Our Healthy Kids Guide continues on page 18.
Healthy Kids & Healthy Families
Continued from page 16.
Sac River Stables
5798 N. Farm Road 125 • Springfield •417-742-4200 • sacriverstables.com Trot on over to Sac River Stables for fun fitness in the saddle. Brushing horses, saddling, and riding in the indoor and outdoor riding facilities are great ways to burn off some winter calories, stay flexible, and use those horseback riding muscles. Some of the benefits of riding include boosting mental health by unplugging from technology and connecting with nature and developing coordination and balance. Follow Sac River Stables on Facebook to learn more about the facilities and programs. See ad on page 22.
Springfield Ballet
411 N. Sherman Pkwy. • Springfield •417-862-1343 • springfieldballet.org
Springfield Ballet’s dance school is a comprehensive training program for dancers to build a strong foundation in classical ballet and complementary dance styles. The school’s curriculum is built on the core values of professionalism, excellence, and discipline in an atmosphere that fosters self-confidence, grace, and focus. All classroom time is spent learning and strengthening dancers’ technique; Springfield Ballet’s classes are not driven by recital performance or competition. Classes are offered at all skill levels for individuals from age 2 through adults. See ad on page 19.
Springfield-Greene
County Park Board
417-864-1049 • parkboard.org/fitness
Chesterfield Family Center • 2511 W. Republic Rd. • 417-891-1616
Dan Kinney Family Center • 2701 S. Blackman Rd. • 417-891-1500
Doling Family Center • 301 E. Talmage St. • 417-837-5900
The Park Board’s Chesterfield, Dan Kinney, and Doling Family Centers are designed to keep kids and families active, with childcare for ages 8 and younger, gym time and game rooms for kids, and workouts and classes for ages 14 and up. All three locations offer youth personal training and Pickleball leagues. Look for kids’ dance classes, tae kwon do, and Kids’ Nights at select locations. The biggest draw for kids may be indoor swimming with lap lanes, recreation pools, and whirlpool spas at Chesterfield and Doling. Memberships include all three locations. Day passes are also available. See ad on page 9.
Our Healthy Kids Guide continues on page 20.
Healthy Kids & Healthy Families
Continued from page 18.
Urban Air Adventure Park
2825 S. Glenstone Ave. • Springfield • 417-210-7889 urbanair.com/missouri-springfield
Urban Air Adventure Park in Battlefield Mall is the best place for your next indoor adventure. Monthly memberships make frequent trips for unlimited play a breeze and guarantee year-round physical activity. Urban Air is a safe place for the whole family to jump, soar, race, climb, and play. Adventure Hub® is a combination of some of the best indoor attractions from SkyRider to the Ropes Course. And, your kids can test their skills on the Battle Beam, Warrior Course, trampolines, and climbing walls. And, Urban Air birthday parties take your celebration to the next level. See ad on page 8.
Therapeutic Services
The Arc of the Ozarks
Autism & Neurodevelopmental Clinics
2864 S. Nettleton Ave. & 3023 S. Fort Ave. • Springfield 417-605-7100 • autismcenteroftheozarks.org
The Arc of the Ozarks enhances the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities who live, work, play, and learn in our community through the variety of programs and services. The Arc saw a need for greater access to autism and neurodevelopmental services and created a place of hope for children and families in Missouri. The clinic’s goals include providing timely assessments, implementing best-practice behavioral health and medical treatments, and helping patients reach their highest potential throughout each stage of life. Their mission is to provide not just therapies, but a compassionate embrace that nurtures their unique qualities, allowing them to thrive, connect, and shine in their own beautiful way. See ad on page 5.
Our Healthy Kids Guide continues on page 21.
Vision Care Pierce Vision Specialists
3626 South Avenue • Springfield • 417-887-7151 • piercevision.com
Dr. David M. Pierce, Dr. Courtney Wintjen, Dr. Julia Mobilio, and the team at Pierce Vision Specialists are experienced professionals in a comprehensive range of eye disorders in people of all ages. They recommend exams for children 6-12 months old, again at 3 years, and prior to entering kindergarten to insure their vision is developing properly. Services provided include individualized eye examinations for infants, children, and adults; vision therapy; and contact lens fittings conducted by well-trained professionals. In addition, you’ll find an inoffice optical lab and a large selection of eyewear with frames for all face shapes and sizes. See ad on page 9.
This month at the Springfield Conservation Nature Center
Friday, Feb. 9, 6 or 7 p.m.
Owl Prowl & Evening Stroll
Saturday, Feb. 10, 10 a.m.
Little Acorns: Opossum Trot
Wednesday, Feb. 14, 11 a.m.
Story Time with Ms. Ladybug
Wednesday, Feb. 21, 10 or 11:15 a.m.
Little Acorns: Skunk Scurry
These are just a few of the great programs hosted by the Springfield Conservation Nature Center. Register online for programs at mdc.mo.gov/southwestevents. Call 417-888-4237 for information.
Address: 4601 S. Nature Center Way, Springfield
February 2024
CALENDAR
While we strive to provide accurate information, we encourage you to call ahead or confirm events online. You’ll find even more events on our website, springfieldkids.com.
What’s Happening in February?
• Black History Month
• American Heart Month
• National Cancer Prevention Month
• Pet Dental Health Month
• National Haiku Writing Month
• Feb. 14–Valentine’s Day
• Feb. 18–The Great Backyard Bird Count
• Feb. 19–Presidents Day
• Feb. 27–International Polar Bear Day
February
The Butterfly Palace winter promo. Receive 66 percent off tickets. Present the coupon from the January Kids Directory or springfieldkids.com to save on your tickets. The Butterfly Palace & Rainforest Adventure, 4106 W. 76 Country Blvd., Branson thebutterflypalace.com
Fridays in February
Pre-K Open Studio at Springfield Art Museum, 1-3 p.m. Ages 3-5 with a caregiver. Hands-on art making in an open studio setting. Free; registration is required. Springfield Art Museum, 1111 E. Brookside Dr., Springfield 417-837-5700 or sgfmuseum.org
Friday-Sunday, Feb. 2-4
See ad on page 8.
“Willy Wonka Kids” with Springfield Little Theatre Education Department and SPS Academy of Fine & Performing Arts. Tickets and show times online. SLT’s “The Judy,” 237 S. Florence Ave., Springfield 417-869-1334 or springfieldlittletheatre.org
See ad on page 24.
Saturday, Feb. 3 & 17
Moxie Mornings at The Moxie Cinema, 10 a.m. Ages 2-6 with an adult. Free short film and hands-on art. Moxie Cinema, 305 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield 417-429-0800 or moxiecinema.com
Saturday, Feb. 3
Inside-Out at Doling Park, 2-3:30 p.m. Ages 4 and older; kids 12 and younger must be with an adult. Spend time inside Doling Family Center and outside in the park. Registration is required. $5/family. Doling Park, 301 E. Talmage St., Springfield 417-833-8647 or parkboard.org
Saturday, Feb. 3
Flick & Float at The OC, 5:30-8 p.m. The pool becomes a movie theatre. Concessions available for purchase. The OC, 1530 W. Jackson St., Ozark 417-581-7002 or ozarkmissouri.com
See ad on page 17.
Sunday, Feb. 4
Frosty Fun at Northview Center, 10 or 11:30 a.m. Ages 5-12. Enjoy an hour of STEM activities, crafts, and games. Registration is required. $5/child. Northview Center, 305 E. Talmage St., Springfield 417-864-1049 or parkboard.org
Sunday, Feb. 4
Digital Safety 101 at Brentwood Library, 2-3 p.m. For parents and caregivers of children, ‘tweens, and teens. Schweitzer Brentwood Branch Library, 2214 S. Brentwood Blvd., Springfield thelibrary.org
Saturday, Feb. 10
#SpaceExplorer by Springfield Symphony, 7:30 p.m. Tickets available through Hammons Hall box office, 525 S. Hammons Pkwy., Springfield Springfield Symphony 417-864-6683 or springfieldmosymphony.org
See ad on page 25.
Sunday, Feb. 11
“Species Spotlight: Giraffes” at the Zoo, 1-4 p.m. Grades 2-4. Learn what makes giraffes unique and the roles they play in their ecosystems. $30/FOZ member, $45/non-member. Dickerson Park Zoo Education Building, 1103 W. Smith St., Springfield 417-833-1570 or dickersonparkzoo.org
See ad on page 22.
Wednesday, Feb. 14
Art in Agriculture at the Farm Park, 9-11 a.m. Grades 1-5 with an adult. Explore farming using different art media. $15/students. Rutledge-Wilson Farm Park, 3825 W. Farm Rd. 146, Springfield 417-837-5949 or parkboard.org
Wednesday, Feb. 14
“Love” Storytime at Ash Grove Library, 10:30 a.m. Infants-age 6. Celebrate the heart-filled holiday with love-themed stories, crafts, and activities. Ash Grove Branch Library, 101 E. Main St., Ash Grove thelibrary.org
Wednesday, Feb. 14
Valentine’s Day Parade in the Library, 11 a.m. Infants-age 6. Celebrate Valentine’s Day books, crafts, songs, and a parade around the library to deliver handmade Valentines to library friends. Schweitzer Brentwood Branch Library, 2214 S. Brentwood Blvd., Springfield thelibrary.org
Monday, Feb. 19
“School’s Out Day: Legends of Conservation” at Wonders of Wildlife, 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Kindergarten-5th grade. Embark on a historic journey to learn about legendary individuals in nature and conservation. $60/student. Registration deadline is Feb. 12. Morris Conservation Center, 600 W. Sunshine St., Springfield wondersofwildlife.org See ad on page 7.
Thursday, Feb. 22
“Conservation Kids: The Great Groundhog” at the Nature Center, 6:30-7:45 p.m. Ages 7-12 with an adult. Siblings are welcome. Springfield Conservation Nature Center, 4601 S. Nature Center Way, Springfield 417-888-4237
Saturday, Feb. 24
Daddy Daughter Dinner & Dance at Northview Center, 6-9 p.m. Ages 3 and older. This year’s theme is “Pink Out.” $40/couple, $10/additional girl. Register early; space is limited. Northview Center, 305 E. Talmage St., Springfield 417-837-5900 or parkboard.org
See ad on page 9.
Saturday, Feb. 24
“Mom & Me Fun Night” at The OC, 6-9 p.m. Ages 5 and older with an adult (mother, aunt, grandmother). Laser tag, dodgeball, pizza and refreshments, rock climbing, and crafts. $25/pair for annual members, $30/monthly member or non-member duo. The OC, 1530 W. Jackson St., Ozark ozarkmissouri.com See ad on page 17.
Sunday, Feb. 25
Carnival of the Animals Workshop with Springfield Ballet, 3-5 p.m. Ages 3-8, boys and girls. No dance experience is needed. $20/child. Creamery Arts Center, 411 N. Sherman Pkwy., Springfield 417-862-1343 or springfieldballet.org See ad on page 19.
