A View from the K-5 Art Room
By Jennifer Cottengim
As an art educator, I’ve seen firsthand how art transforms children in powerful ways. Art isn’t just about creating something pretty, It’s a tool for growth. It nurtures creativity, which I define as the ability to generate ideas. Students make the connection that everyone has this ability. I want them to use the fear of ambiguity or the “not knowing” of their outcome not as a barrier, but as a natural and exciting part of the process. In the art room, students learn to welcome uncertainty, take risks, and explore their own original thinking. When children explore materials, make decisions, and adapt their ideas, they’re learning that the journey is just as important, if not more, than the final piece. Confidence grows as children realize their voices matter. Each choice they make becomes an opportunity to express themselves authentically. Emotionally, art provides a safe
space to process feelings, while developmentally, it strengthens fine motor skills, critical thinking, and perseverance.
Over time, I’ve watched students grow more confident as they express themselves through their work. Art gives them ownership. Every line and brushstroke is their decision. That sense of control and accomplishment builds self-esteem, especially in children who may struggle in other areas. At the same time, they’re learning to problem-solve in handson meaningful ways. The art room becomes a space where children are supported creatively, emotionally, and developmentally. That’s the heart of why art education matters.
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: info@LocalResourceGuides.com
EVERY DAY
HuHot
2825 S. Glenstone Ave. Springfield 417-882-0300
Kids age 3 and younger eat free every day. Drink not included. Dine-in only. 4-10 eat for $7.99. Tuesdays Kids eat free
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. Springfield 417-862-7777
One half price kids’ meal per adult meal purchased from 1-4 p.m. Cannot be combined with other offers or coupons.
HuHot
2825 S. Glenstone Ave. Springfield 417-882-0300
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.
Springfield Family Restaurant 2222 S. Campbell Ave. Springfield 417-883-0900
One free kids’ 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.
NEW: Dickey’s Barbecue Pit 1360 E Republic Rd. Springfield 417-887-2227
For every $12 adult meal purchased, receive a free kid’s meal
25 percent off for all students with school I.D.
111 N Massey Blvd. Nixa 737-277-5318
For every $12 adult meal purchased, receive a free kid’s meal
“Kids Eat Free” offers continue on page 8.
Kids Eat Free! (or almost free)
Continued from page 6
MONDAY
Amigos Mexican Restaurant
2118 S. Campbell Ave. Springfield 417-887-1401
All day, get one free kid’s meal (for ages 10 and younger) with purchase of an adult entrée. Drink not included.
Iguana Rojo
107 W. Church St. Ozark 417-485-8585
All day, get a free kid’s meal per adult meal purchased. Dine-in only.
Pasta Express
3025 W. Republic Rd. Springfield 417-888-3048
Free kid’s meal for kids ages 12 and younger with purchase of an adult entrée. 4-9 p.m. Dine-in only.
3250 E. Battlefield, Springfield 417-890-1345
Free kid’s meal for kids ages 12 and younger with purchase of an adult entrée. 3-9 p.m. Dine-in only.
321 E. Battlefield, Springfield 417-885-0030
Free kid’s meal for kids ages 12 and younger with purchase of an adult entrée. 4-9 p.m. Dine-in only.
Springfield Brewing Company
305 S. Market Ave. Springfield 417-832-8277
All day, one free kid’s meal for ages 12 and younger with each adult meal purchased.
Rebar Kitchen & Taproom
2902 S. Campbell Ave. Springfield 417-530-2309
Get one free kid’s meal with the purchase of one adult meal after 5 p.m. Dine-in only.
The Roost Bar & Grill
4216 S. Cox Rd. Springfield 417-612-9050
After 5 p.m., one free kid’s meal with the purchase of an adult entrée.
2025 W. Sunshine St. Springfield 417-865-4000
After 5 p.m., one free kid’s meal with the purchase of an adult entrée.
2510 S. State Highway MM, Republic 417-771-5141
After 5 p.m., one free kid’s meal with the purchase of an adult entrée.
Village Inn
4222 S Campbell Ave, Springfield (417) 887-4774
Get one kids’ meal for kids age 9 and younger with each adult meal purchased. Offer good all day. Offer also good on Tuesday.
2036 Glenstone Ave, Springfield (417) 881-0774
Get one kids’ meal for kids age 9 and younger with each adult meal purchased. Offer good all day. Offer also good on Tuesday.
“Kids Eat Free” offers continue on page 10.
What do you love to draw or make? I like to draw puppies, paint scenery and make clay animals. Who helps you make art? I mostly make art by myself. What’s your favorite color? Teal My art makes me relax. My favorite thing about art is... there are no rules.
Kids Eat Free! (or almost free)
MONDAY cont.
533 E. Elm St. Republic 417-647-2200
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
Bair’s All-American Sports Grill
3281 S. Campbell Ave. Springfield 417-368-5919
All day, kids eat for $2.99 with the purchase of a regular-priced entrée.
Big Whiskey’s
311 E. Park Central Sq. Springfield 417-862-2449
One free kid’s meal with purchase of an adult entrée, 5-9 p.m.
1440 W Republic Rd. Springfield 417-882-2249
One free kid’s meal with purchase of an adult entrée, 5-9 p.m.
1550 E. Battlefield Rd. Springfield 417-883-5999
One free kid’s meal with purchase of an adult entrée, 5-9 p.m.
602 N. 25th St. Ozark 417-485-3800
Continued from page 8
900 N. Old Towne Ave. Republic 417-732-2646
One free kid’s meal with purchase of an adult entrée, 5-9 p.m.
715 McCroskey St. Nixa 417-725-3031
One free kid’s meal with purchase of an adult entrée, 5-9 p.m.
One free kid’s meal with purchase of an adult entrée, 5-9 p.m.
Prima’s Mexican Grill 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.
3662 S. Glentsone Ave. Springfield 417-890-1212
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.
Village Inn
4222 S Campbell Ave, Springfield (417) 887-4774
Get one kids’ meal for kids age 9 and younger with each adult meal purchased. Offer good all day. Offer also good on Monday.
2036 Glenstone Ave, Springfield (417) 881-0774
Get one kids’ meal for kids age 9 and younger with each adult meal purchased. Offer good all day. Offer also good on Monday.
533 E. Elm St. Republic 417-647-2200
Get one kids’ meal for kids age 9 and younger with each adult meal purchased. Offer good all day. Offer also good on Monday.
“Kids Eat Free” offers continue on page 12.
Kids Eat Free! (or almost free)
TUESDAY cont
Ruby Tuesday’s
2725 N Glenstone Ave. Springfield 417-831-7829
After 5 p.m., get one free kid’s entrée with one adult entrée purchase.
Pizza Ranch
2825 S. Glenstone Ave. Springfield 417-319-5021
One child 10 and younger eats free per full-priced pay adult, 4-8 p.m.
WEDNESDAY
Mexican Villa
1408 S. National Ave. Springfield 417-869-4459
Get one free kids’ meal with an adult entrée purchased, All day
2755 S. Campbell Ave. Springfield 417-883-1040
Get one free kids’ meal with an adult entrée purchased, All day
1100 W. Sunshine St. Springfield 417-866-7292
Get one free kids’ meal with an adult entrée purchased, All day
Continued from page 10
kids’ meal with every menu item purchase vauled at $9 or more.
Bair’s All-American Sports Grill
3821 S. Campbell Ave. Springfield 417-368-5919
1337 E. Sunshine St. Springfield 417-887-1010
Get one free kids’ meal with an adult entrée purchased, All day
Andy B’s
1127 E. Battlefield Rd. Springfield 417-883-1234
Kids age 12 and younger get a free
All day, kids eat for $2.99 with the purchase of a regular-priced entrée.
1644 E. Highway 60 Republic
417-732-5077
All day, kids eat for $2.99 with the purchase of a regular-priced 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. Dinein 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.
Whole Hog Café
224 W. Sunshine St. Springfield 417-868-0042
After 5 p.m., kids 12 and younger get one free kid’s plate with purchase of one adult plate. Dine-in only.
S.S. Dockside Grill & Pub
1528 N. Main St. Nixa
“Kids Eat Free” offers continue on page 14
The Healing Power of Art by
Annie Conn-Trauma Therapist
By Annie Conn
“Our everyday lives are bombarded with technology. Smartphones, and tablets can set the stage for a passive observer rather than an active participant and kids need to be encouraged to step away from technology.
Children learn through play and creating art is a form of play. They need a space with the freedom to explore and create without rules, boundaries, or judgement and art can provide that for them.
Art is an experiential activity that doesn’t require reading or writing but when a piece is created it can speak a thousand words. Creating art can show a child that even a “mistake” might be the best thing ever, which can boost their confidence.
Being able to create something using any medium available without
worrying about what grade they might receive provides a healthy outlet for their emotions to flow freely. In the world we live in right now children really need the opportunity to express themselves in a productive way.”
Kids Eat Free! (or almost free)
WEDNESDAY cont.
one free kid’s plate with purchase of one adult plate. Dine-in only.
S.S. Dockside Grill & Pub 1528 N. Main St. Nixa 417-374-7222
All day, get one free kid’s meal per adult meal purchsed. Dine-in only.
THURSDAY
The Catfish Café 1210 S. Ash St. Buffalo 417-345-1277
One free kid’s meal per paid adult meal, 4-8 p.m. Dine-in only.
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.
Continued from page 12
FRIDAY
Ruby Tuesday’s 2725 N Glenstone Ave. Springfield 417-831-7829
All day, get one free kid’s entrée with one adult entrée.
WEEKENDS ONLY
NEW: Qdoba 401 S Kimbrough Ave. Springfield 417-866-1388
Free kids meal with purchase of adul meal-kid must be present to claim
900 E Battlefield Rd. Springfield 417-887-7329
Free kids meal with purchase of adult meal-kid must be present to claim.
What do you love to draw or make? Sunsets, because I like blending it in and it looks beautiful when it’s blended. Who helps you make art? I do it all on my own! What’s your favorite color? Pink My art makes me happy. My favorite thing about art is...drawing, I like being creative! I love putting my imaginations on paper.
Theater, Dance, Music
Theater, dance, and music ignite kids’ creativity, boosting confidence and selfexpression through storytelling, movement, and sound. These performing arts foster teamwork, emotional growth, and discipline, offering a joyful way to develop skills and shine in a supportive environment.
417 Dance (417) 317-9495
1517 E Lark St, Springfield, MO 65804
Offers kids’ dance classes for ages 1.5–18, including ballet, tap, jazz, and hip hop. With recreational and competitive programs, it nurtures creativity and confidence in a supportive environment. They have a free dance clinic coming up on July 12th from 1:00 - 3:00 PM. There will be 3 separate classes during this time for ages 3-7, 8-17, and adults 18+. Registration is required by July 9th by calling/texting 417-3179495 or emailing info@417dance.com. Visit 417dance.com for more info.
Springfield Little Theater 417-869-3869
311 E. Walnut Avenue, Springfield
Offers vibrant theater classes for kids ages 4–18, including acting, voice, dance, and playwriting. Fun workshops and productions build confidence and creativity. Visit springfieldlittletheatre.org for schedules.
Children’s Music Academy (417) 425-4618
5335 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield
Offers fun, interactive music classes for kids ages 3–9, teaching piano, guitar, drums, singing, and songwriting. With hands-on learning, it builds confidence and creativity. Visit childrenlearnmusic.org to enroll.
Martial Arts
Martial arts nurtures your child’s growth by building confidence, discipline, and focus through creative movement. As a performing art, it teaches respect, teamwork, and self-expression, helping kids thrive physically and mentally in a fun, supportive environment.
Martial Arts USA
(417)886-3331
4560 S Campbell Ave. Suite 136, Springfield
Offers dynamic kids’ martial arts classes that focus on confidence, discipline, and fitness. With expert instructors, fun activities like ninja camps, and a family-friendly vibe, it’s perfect for children ages 4+ to grow and thrive.
Visit martialartsusaspringfield.com to see how you can claim 2 free weeks!
Unified Martial Arts
(417)986-2456
2550 S Campbell Ave. Ste. 300 Springfield
Provides engaging kids’ Taekwondo classes for ages 3+, including those with special needs. Led by experienced instructors, the program fosters confidence, respect, and coordination in a supportive, family-oriented environment. Visit springfielduma.com for more information.
Hex Brazilian
Jiu Jitsu
(417)812-5241
5681 US-60
Rogersville
Offers kids’ BJJ classes for ages 6–13, building confidence, discipline, and fitness. With passionate instructors, a supportive community, and fun, skill-focused training, it’s ideal for young martial artists. Visit hexbjj.com for details.
Performing Arts continues on page 22.
Free Things To Do
Springfield Rocks Painted Rock Hunt
Join the free Springfield Rocks community project by searching for painted rocks hidden in parks like Fassnight or Sequiota in Springfield, Nixa, or Ozark. Kids can paint and hide their own rocks, fostering creativity. Be sure to check out their Facebook Page at Springfield Rocks! (Missouri)#SRMO and share your findings!
Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield
Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield near Springfield, MO, preserves the site of a pivotal 1861 Civil War battle. Families can explore a free visitor center with a 27-minute film and museum, take a 5-mile selfguided driving tour, or walk trails like Bloody Hill to sketch historic sites. Open daily in July 2025; check nps.gov/wicr for hours.
Splash & Sizzle
DESCRIPTION: Springfield’s outdoor public pools offer $1 admission or free entry with a canned food donation for Ozarks Food Harvest in July 2025. Families can swim and create poolside art like chalk drawings at pools like Fassnight or Silver Springs. Check parkboard. org for schedules.
C-Street Stroll and Mural Hunt
DESCRIPTION: Discover over 40 stunning murals by local artists on Springfield’s Historic Commercial Street (C-Street) with a free, selfguided walk. Families can search for bold, colorful artworks and draw their own mural ideas. Open 24/7, it’s a creative adventure for all ages. Check itsalldowntown.com for a mural guide.
Springfield Art Museum : FREE Take-Home Project Bags 2025
DESCRIPTION: Create art at home with Springfield Art Museum’s FREE Take-Home Project Bags, available in July 2025 at Wilhoit Plaza (431 S. Jefferson Ave., Springfield). Designed for kids ages 3–12, these kits include supplies like beads, pipe cleaners, and cardboard to craft abstract art. Register at sgfmuseum.org for pickup details.
Free Things To Do 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.
Field Trip Films : Monsters Inc.
July 9, 2 PM
Springfield’s historic Gillioz Theatre showcases classic children’s movies, mostly Pixar animations, in a family-friendly downtown setting. Partnering with Care to Learn, which supports low-income students, the series donates part of each ticket sale to the cause. It offers a big-screen movie experience while aiding a local educational program. Check gillioztheatre.com for more details.
Admission: $5
Combo Ticket: $10 (admission, popcorn, and beverage)
National Teddy Bear Picnic
July 10, 10 AM - 12 PM
Celebrate National Teddy Bear Picnic Day at Springfield’s Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park! This free event invites kids of all ages to bring their teddy bears for stories, songs, and art activities like crafting bear-themed bookmarks. Check parkboard.org for more details.
Family Fishing Fun Night
July 11, 6 PM - 9 PM
Enjoy a fun, free evening at Rutledge-Wilson Farm Park in Springfield with catch-and-release fishing, a Cow Train ride, bounce house, and campfire. Pack your own food to grill! Registration is required. Check parkboard.org for more details.
Thursday Night Lights
with the Springfield Dream Center @ Lafayette Park
July 10th and July 24th 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm
DESCRIPTION: Join Thursday Night Lights at Lafayette Park in Springfield for free family fun every other Thursday in July 2025 (July 10, 24) from 5:30–7:30 PM! Kids enjoy active games and art activities like sidewalk chalk creations, while families connect in a vibrant community setting. Check springfielddreamcenter.com for more details.
Free things to do calandar continues on page 24
Crafts • Painting • Drawing
Crafts, painting, and drawing spark creativity and boost confidence in kids, letting them express ideas through colors and shapes. These visual arts build fine motor skills, encourage problem-solving, and provide a fun, relaxing way to grow emotionally and mentally.
Springfield Art Museum (417) 874-2835
Temp Address: Wilhoit Plaza - 431 S. Jefferson Ave., Springfield, MO
The Springfield Art Museum’s youth classes offer enriching art programs for kids and teens, including Pre-K Open Studios, Kids Create, and Young Artists sessions. These classes foster creativity through hands-on projects like painting and sculpture. Registration is required; visit sgfmuseum.org for details. Contact Museum Educator Lori Gipson at lori.gipson@springfieldmo.gov or (417) 874-2835 with questions regarding pre-k, youth, or teen classes.
Art Zone
(417) 224-9816
840 Guin Rd, Nixa
Offers creative art classes, camps, and pottery painting for kids and families. With homeschool programs, birthday parties, and walk-in clay projects, it’s a fun hub for artistic exploration. Visit artzonenixa.com to book.
AR Workshop
(417) 429-0803
1550 E Battlefield Rd Ste N-1, Springfield
Offers hands-on DIY classes for kids and families to create custom home decor like wood signs and canvas pillows. Fun camps and workshops spark creativity. Book at arworkshop.com/springfield.
Culinary Art
Culinary arts inspire kids to explore creativity through cooking, boosting confidence and problem-solving skills. Learning to prepare food fosters independence, teamwork, and healthy habits, while offering a fun, hands-on way to express themselves and connect with others.
Pickwick and Cherry (417) 616-3303
607 S Pickwick Ave Suite B, Springfield
Offers hands-on kids’ cooking classes, including baking and culinary workshops. Led by expert instructors, these fun experiences spark creativity and teach skills in a family-friendly setting. Visit pickwickandcherry.com to book.
CALENDAR
Continued from page 21.
417 Dance Clinic for Kids and Adults
Date: 7/12/2025
Feel like a star as you light up the dance floor at 417 Dance’s free dance clinic on July 12th from 1:00 - 3:00 PM. There will be 3 separate classes during this time for ages 3-7, 8-17, and adults 18+. Registration is required by July 9th by calling/texting 417-317-9495 or emailing info@417dance.com.
Address: 1517 E Lark St. Springfield, MO 65804
More Info: https://www.417dance.com
Nixa
Movies in the Park: Despicable Me 4
@ McCauley Park
Saturday July 26, 2025 6:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Gather for a free Movie in the Park at Nixa’s McCauley Park, sponsored by The Massengale Group of KW! Enjoy family-friendly films under the stars starting at dusk. Bring blankets or chairs, and get creative with pre-movie art activities for kids. Check https://www. nixa.com/events/movie-in-the-park-sponsored-by-the-massengalegroup-of-kw/ for more details.
Springfield Public School’s Back to School Bash
@ Springfield Expo Center
July 26 9:30 AM - 2:00 PM
Springfield Public Schools’ Back to School Bash is a free, fun event for SPS families at the Springfield Expo Center. Kids can enjoy art activities like decorating backpacks while parents grab free school supplies, groceries, and resources. Check sps.org/backtoschoolbash for more details.
Botanical Gardens Garden Story
Time
July 17 10:00 AM – 10:30 AM
Garden Story Time at Springfield Botanical Gardens offers a free, fun morning for kids ages 0–6, featuring nature-themed stories and hands-on art activities like leaf rubbings. It’s a great way to inspire creativity outdoors. Check https:// www.friendsofthegarden.org/ events/category/garden-storytime/2025-07/ for more details.
Lowe’s – DIY-U Kids’ Workshop
July 19 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
(Craft: Messi Soccer Shootout)
Lowe’s Kids’ DIY Workshops offer free monthly projects for ages 4+, like building trinket boxes or mini greenhouses. Kids gain hands-on skills, earn badges, and create memories. Register at lowes.com/ DIYU. Free things to do calandar continues on page 26.
Moxie Mornings at The Moxie Cinema
Sat. July 19 at 10 AM
CALENDAR
Continued from page 25.
Moxie Mornings at The Moxie Cinema in Springfield offers free, hourlong sessions for kids ages 2–6, featuring creative short films and fun art activities like crafting puppets. It’s a perfect way to spark young imaginations. Visit moxiecinema.com for more details.
Making Memories Day Carnival
July 19, 12 PM - 2:30 PM
Dive into the Roaring ’20s at the Making Memories Day Carnival, hosted by On Angels’ Wings, at Barley House in Springfield! This family-friendly event costs $5 for ages 3+ and features carnival games, bounce houses, live music, and art activities like creating 1920s-inspired crafts. Don’t miss the costume contest at 1:45 PM! Check oawphoto.org for more details.
CALENDAR
Continued from page 26.
Free Movies in the Park
Fri., July 25
Movie begins at dusk, around 8:45 p.m.
Mufasa: The Lion King
Rated PG | 1h 58m |
Enjoy free family movie nights under the stars at Jordan Valley Park in Springfield! Bring blankets and chairs to watch kid-friendly films on a big screen, with themed artsy pre-show crafts suitable for all ages. Concessions are available for purchase. Check https://parkboard. org/805/Movies-in-the-Park for more details
Home Depot – Kids Workshop: Space Odyssey
Date: July 5, 2025
Inspire young builders at this free 9 a.m. workshop for kids ages 5–12 (younger with parental help). Create your craft, earn a certificate, pin, and apron. Registration recommended.
Address: 2104 E Independence St, Springfield, MO 65804
More Info: https://www.homedepot.com/c/kids-workshop
Free Movies in the Park
Fri., Aug 8
CALENDAR
Continued from page 27.
Movie begins at dusk, around 8:15 p.m.
Mufasa: Moana 2
Rated PG | 1h 40m |
Enjoy free family movie nights under the stars at Jordan Valley Park in Springfield! Bring blankets and chairs to watch kid-friendly films on a big screen, with themed artsy pre-show crafts suitable for all ages. Concessions are available for purchase. Check https://parkboard.org/805/ Movies-in-the-Park for more details.
Family Fishing Fun Night
Aug 8, 6 PM - 9 PM
Enjoy a fun, free evening at Rutledge-Wilson Farm Park in Springfield with catch-and-release fishing, a Cow Train ride, bounce house, and campfire. Pack your own food to grill! Registration is required. Check parkboard.org for more details.
Downtown Ozark Market Days
Every first Saturday of the month
May - October 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Discover Downtown Ozark
Market Days at the historic Ozark Square! This free, family-friendly event features local farmers, artisans, and food vendors, plus live music and kid-friendly art activities like face painting. Check https://www.exploreccmo.com/ events/downtown-ozark-marketdays-2/ for more details.
