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Ask the Experts

We have a wide range of experts on hand to answer your questions on everything from dental visits and playdates to dance lessons, lawns and so much more! If you have a question that needs answering, get in touch.

Q. At what age should I introduce my daughter to coding?

I would recommend getting your daughter exposed to coding as soon as possible. You can start the fundamentals of computational thinking very early with games and toys like Code-a-pillar. What you want her to learn [is] pattern recognition and sequences. By the time she is 4 or 5, she can start with block coding to create simple games in Scratch JR. or Code Spark. They feel like they are playing a game but they are actually learning coding concepts. Make sure that she learns to start typing on a real computer too. By 6 or 7 years old, she can start going into another block coding like Scratch to expand on her capabilities. Start all kids early and when they get older, they will not be at all intimidated, but it is never too late to start either!

Jason Hansen CODE NINJAS KC AREA OWNER

At Code Ninjas, kids learn to code while building their own video games. They gain problem-solving, critical thinking and STEM skills in a fun, safe and inspiring environment. 913.444.9448, CodeNinjas.com

Q. Help! My son hates to take any kind of medication? Tips for making it easier to get him to take his meds?

Use play as your tool! Decorate a cup or have a tea party! Play is the way kids learn, process and understand the world. Be honest. Tell your child why they need to take the medicine. Give your child choices of something positive that will follow. For example, “When you are done taking the medicine, we can play a game or go outside.” Offer lots of encouraging words, “You are halfway done!” or “You are doing great!” We love to use sticker charts to help kids see what they need to complete and to watch their success!

Megan Johnson, CCLS II CHILDREN’S MERCY HOSPITAL

Children’s Mercy is one of the nation’s top pediatric medical centers. With hospitals and specialty clinics in Missouri and Kansas, we provide the highest level of care for children. 816.234.3000, ChildrensMercy.org

Q. Is my child too young for orthodontics? When should I make an appointment for a first check-up?

According to the American Association of Orthodontists, children should first see the orthodontist no later than age 7. Although your children may still have some baby teeth at that age, they will have enough permanent teeth for an orthodontist to evaluate the developing teeth and determine whether early treatment is necessary. Early treatment means treatment that is performed while baby teeth are still present. The goal of early treatment is to intercept the developing problem, guide the growth of facial and jawbones, and provide adequate space for incoming teeth. Waiting until all the permanent teeth have come in can make correcting some problems more difficult. Timing is everything!

John P. Roth, DDS STARTING POINT PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

Starting Point Pediatric Dentistry specializes in giving kids the care and special consideration they need for successful dental care. 913.553.2492, StartingPointDental.com

Q. What are the benefits of planting in fall?

Fall is the best season to plant the vast majority of plant material because of the soil temperatures that have been warmed from the summer sun. Typically, the air temperature cools in September evenings, allowing plants to focus their energy on developing a strong root system in the warm soil, as a strong root system is the main factor in successful establishment of plant material. In addition, the gentler autumn rainfall is more easily absorbed, compared to the gully washing rains that we can receive in spring. With this in mind, it is always important to water newly planted trees, shrubs and perennials thoroughly and weekly until dormancy for best results in establishment.

Jonah Nelson FAMILY TREE NURSERY

Family Tree Nursery is a team of passionate horticulturists, providing an unmatched selection of plants and gardening products for the KC area since 1964. 913.642.6503, FamilyTreeNursery.com

Are you an expert in your field with advice for our readers, contact editor@kcparent.com and we may consider adding you to our panel.

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