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5 Things We Love Right Now

Looking for a little summer inspiration? This list of seasonal favorites includes something for everyone—whether you’re baking cake pops with the kids, hitting the road with space-saving luggage, or stocking up on natural skincare.

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Best of Christmas in Kansas City

Christmas in Kansas City is a wonderful time of year. Fantastic shows, historic sites and nostalgia, visits with Santa and more… These are our top picks for Christmas in Kansas City.

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MEGA-DINOSAUR GIVEAWAY

MEGA-DINOSAUR GIVEAWAY The whole month of June! $1000 in GIVEAWAYS! Enter to win Passes to: Dino-Lab at Science City, Jurassic World Rebirth Movie, KC Jurassic Farm Exhibit, Powell Gardens Jurassic Gardens and more!

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KC’s Summer Movie Guide

From $2 indoor matinees to free outdoor films under the stars, explore family movie nights, drive-ins, and special screenings happening all summer in KC!

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Inspired Play Cafe Giveaway

Inspired Play Cafe is the perfect spot for families to connect-kids can explore in the thoughtfully designed play space while parents relax in the cozy café. Enter to win and enjoy family fun!

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Playgrounds That Go!

Kids who love vehicles will be thrilled by these Kansas City-area playgrounds inspired by things that move-from trains and tractors to fire engines and mini roadways.

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Free and Cheap Fun in KC

Are you looking for budget-friendly ways to explore Kansas City? Whether you're local or just visiting, you don't have to break the bank to enjoy...

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Best of May

May in Kansas City is packed with sunshine, celebrations, and endless family fun, from honoring moms on Mother’s Day to celebrating Star Wars Day on May 4 to kicking off summer over Memorial Day weekend!

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KC Parent May 2025

Your ultimate guide to May family fun-celebrating moms, Memorial Day, local festivals, camps, and can’t-miss KC adventures!

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KC’s Guide to Toddler FUN

Our ultimate TODDLER FUN guide has you covered! From free activities and animal adventures to open gyms and more, enjoy a great day with your little ones-rain or shine!

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Unique Overnights Near KC

It’s time for a romantic overnight getaway near Kansas City! Make memories and stay in a covered wagon at Isinglass Estate, a converted silo at The Silos at Prairie Vale, or a luxury suite at Cedar Crest Lodge.

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Best Brunch Spots in KC

From buffets to BBQ twists to pumpkin lattes year-round, find your next favorite brunch spot here: Grand Street Café, Pinstripes, Char Bar, Chicken N Pickle, Eggtc., and The Corner Café.

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5 Must-Visit Libraries in KC

5 Must-Visit Libraries for Kids in KC! From train-themed fun to pretend play ice cream shops, these Kansas City libraries offer amazing children’s areas perfect for reading, playing, and exploring.

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Soap Cloud Science Fun

Mix science and craft time with this easy Ivory soap experiment! Watch it transform, learn about heat reactions, and have fun creating new shapes.

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Spring Blooms and Bites

Don't Touch That Flower by Alice Hemming, illustrated by Nicola Slater, will capture any child with its playful illustrations and delightful lessons about what causes...

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Festivals Across Kansas City

Get ready for a season packed with art, music, food, festivals, and family fun across Kansas City and beyond. From colorful street fairs to moving concerts and lively cultural celebrations, there’s something unforgettable waiting for everyone.

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5 Things We Love Right Now

Find your new favorite cozy essential, uncover a hidden gem in the city, get smarter about the world around you, add serious fun to your next gathering, and discover a sweet sip worth savoring.

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Date Night: Food Halls

Explore KC’s top food halls! From Parlor’s vibrant eats to Strang Hall’s laid-back charm and Lenexa Public Market’s global flavors, there’s something for everyone-and plenty of ways to support local businesses.

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Guinness World Records Review

Explore the Science of Guinness World Records exhibit at Union Station through a fun, family-friendly review. Discover interactive challenges, amazing artifacts, and what it takes to break a world record in this engaging hands-on experience.

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Cinderella: A Salsa Fairy Tale Review

Experience a fresh, bilingual twist on a classic tale in Cinderella: A Salsa Fairy Tale at the Coterie Theatre. This lively, music-filled show celebrates empathy, diversity, and inclusion-perfect for families and kids of all ages!

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Visit Bentonville With Kids!

Bentonville is packed with tons of FREE fun with their parks, bike trails and creeks plus enjoy some of the highest-rated coffee shops in the world! Here’s a complete weekend itinerary for the best things to do in Bentonville.

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Volunteerism in Kansas City

Discover 12 fun and meaningful ways to volunteer with your family in Kansas City! From packing meals and planting trees to cuddling shelter pets and creating care kits, these local opportunities help make a difference!

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Maya And The Magic Ring

Step into the magical world of Maya and the Magic Ring, a charming, kid-friendly opera filled with music, laughter, and life lessons. Perfect for young audiences, this 60-minute production by Lyric Opera of KC runs through April 12.

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KC’s Weekly Playdates for Tots

Your go-to guide for fun toddler weekly playdates in Kansas City! From open gyms and indoor playgrounds to story times and splash sessions, find daily playdate ideas to keep little ones active and happy.

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KC’s Best Inclusive Parks

From storybook-themed playgrounds to adaptive swings and wheelchair-accessible equipment, discover 5 Inclusive Parks in KC where children of all abilities can play.

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5 Things We Love Right Now

Discover unique finds and must-have essentials! From the mountain-inspired charm of Front Range Coffeehouse, to The Laundry Book’s expert tips, Crazy Creek’s ultimate outdoor chair, Swanson’s trusted vitamins, and Dog Train’s hilarious music for kids

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Celebrate Spring

Celebrate spring with a fun family activity! Read Grumpy Monkey: Spring Fever and then get hands-on in the kitchen making warm, gooey monkey bread together. A perfect way to mix storytime and baking fun for little learners!

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Best Children’s Podcasts

Discover the best kids’ podcasts by age group-perfect for car rides and bedtime routines! This guide features fun & educational podcasts with quick summaries to find your new favorites.

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Celebrate Waffle Day in Kansas City!

March 25 is International Waffle Day-a perfect excuse to indulge in crispy, golden perfection! Whether you love sweet, savory, or a little of both, Kansas City has incredible waffle creations to satisfy every craving.

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Lawn Care 101 in KC

Want a lush, green lawn this season? Check out Lawn Care 101: Do’s & Don’ts for expert tips on mowing, watering, fertilizing, and weed control straight from the pros. Learn how to avoid common mistakes and your yard will be the envy of the neighbors!

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Disney on Ice: Let’s Dance Review

Experience the magic of Disney on Ice at T-Mobile Center, where dazzling skating, jaw-dropping acrobatics, and iconic characters like Simba, Moana, and Ariel bring your favorite Disney stories to life. From the breathtaking “Circle of Life” on ice to

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Local Goodness: The Golden Scoop

The Golden Scoop is more than an ice cream shop-it’s a joyful, inclusive space creating meaningful jobs for individuals with disabilities in Kansas City. Enjoy delicious, made-from-scratch ice cream and coffee while supporting a mission!

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DIY Bouncy Ball

Make Your Own Bouncy Ball! This easy DIY project uses clear glue, borax, and glitter to create a fun, bouncy ball at home! Perfect for hands-on learning and play, kids will love mixing, molding, and bouncing their creations. Get the full instructions

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5 Things We Love Right Now

Discover must-have products for home, health, and family fun! From real estate experts at Anchor & Bloom to Bluapple’s produce savers, Active Skin Repair, a silk eye mask for better sleep, and a fun family game, these picks make life easier!

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5 Marvelous Museums

Discover aviation at the Amelia Earhart Hangar Museum, money at the Fed’s Money Museum, pioneer history at National Frontier Trails, 1850s life at Missouri Town, and modern art at Kemper Museum-all offering immersive experiences!

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Go Explore Eastern Jackson County

Easter Jackson County is home to many of the city’s most loved historic sites and Victorian mansions, as well as Powell Gardens, favorite shopping districts, and family entertainment centers.

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Go Explore Downtown

Kansas City’s 18th & Vine district mixes baseball, jazz, and history! Ride the free KC Streetcar, explore the Power & Light District, and enjoy First Fridays in the Crossroads with art, food, and live music. Don’t forget the Arabia Steamboat Museum for a dash of treasure hunting!

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Go Explore Johnson County

Johnson County Kansas is home to the Overland Park Convention Center, numerous arts and crafts attractions, thrill-seekers favorites and living history sites.

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Pogo Pass Giveaway

One pass, 25 venues, a whole year of fun with free admission to top KC attractions like Science City, the KC Zoo & Aquarium, Urban Air, Royals games, and more. Enter now for your chance to win!

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The Best Playground Slides in Kansas City

Discover the tallest, fastest, and most unique slides in Kansas City! From colossal embankment slides at Concourse Park to Lenexa’s tallest twin slides, these parks offer thrilling rides, zip lines, climbing structures, and fun for all ages.

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Global Adventures Right Here in KC

From African cuisine to Asian festivals, Aussie wildlife, European markets, and Latin flavors, discover cultural experiences and eateries-no passport needed. Fun for families, date nights, and adventure seekers!

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March Date Night: Casual Eats in KC

Enjoy top-rated burgers at Westport Flea Market, New York-style pizza at Price Rite Market & Deli, or Southern-style fried catfish at The Fish Market in Liberty. Great food, fun vibes, and local charm await!

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Urban Air: A High-Flying Family Adventure

Experience the ultimate indoor adventure at Urban Air Lenexa, featuring trampolines, obstacle courses, a ropes course, and more. Perfect for all ages, with options for younger jumpers and sensory-friendly play. Plan your visit today!

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Kansas City’s Nature Centers

Looking for budget-friendly family fun? Our ultimate Nature Center Guide is packed with free activities, animal encounters, and outdoor adventures! Explore dozens of ways to enjoy nature with your kids without breaking the bank in KC.

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The Best Pizza in KC

Every member of the KC Parent staff has called Kansas City home for over 25 years-and trust us, we have strong opinions about pizza! From must-try specialties and hidden gems, we’ve rounded up our top pizza spots.

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‘I Heart You’ Valentine’s Day Cards

Make a heartfelt Valentine’s Day craft with this easy, kid-friendly project! Create a handprint card with a cut-out heart, decorate with fun Q-tip painting, and add a sweet message. A simple, creative way to show some love!

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Snoopy and the Red Baron at Crown Center

Experience the Red Baron Exhibit at Crown Center, a free, family-friendly showcase celebrating Snoopy’s iconic World War I Flying Ace persona with reprinted comics, historical insights, hands-on activities, and nostalgic Peanuts memorabilia.

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Go Explore Midtown

Kansas City’s Midtown and Country Club Plaza Districts offer many family-friendly attractions and sites to enjoy including the city’s beloved Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, the Kansas City Zoo, and more.

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Go Explore Midtown

Kansas City’s Midtown and Country Club Plaza Districts offer many family-friendly attractions and sites to enjoy including the city’s beloved Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, the Kansas City Zoo, and more.

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Go Explore the Crown Center District

Crown Center and Union Station are two of Kansas City’s most beloved landmarks. With a variety of kid-friendly favorite attractions as well as world-class museums, this is an excellent area to explore with visitors.

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Pair and Share: Green Eggs and Ham

This engaging activity pairs Green Eggs and Ham with hands-on fun, including Green Egg Pretzel Bites and Ham Rolls. Kids can act out the story’s characters while enjoying themed snacks!

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22 Boredom Busters for Wintry Days

Cold and gloomy days have been a mainstay of the forecast for the past month, cabin fever is alive and well, and everyone is bored. Olathe mom shares 22 easy ways to spice up this month!

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Movie-Inspired Fun All Winter

This winter, gather your family for cozy movie nights with heartwarming films like The Chronicles of Narnia, Lilo & Stitch, Homeward Bound, and Wonder. Each movie offers fun activities and meaningful lessons!

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Kansas City Best Coffee Shops

Stretching from De Soto, KS, to Kansas City, MO, we have some phenomenal coffee shops. Grab the kids and a friend, and try your favorite latte or peppermint mocha!

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15 FUN Winter Activities in KC

Shake off winter blues KC-style! Explore outdoor fun, museums, indoor play, and cozy spots. Dive into art, science, and history, or enjoy skating, splashing, and sipping coffee. There’s something for everyone to keep this season exciting!

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Super Bowl Family Fun: Kansas City Style

Discover these fun and family-friendly ways to celebrate the Chiefs’ Super Bowl appearance! From stadium tours to themed treats and crafts, this guide is packed with activities to help you show your Chiefs pride and create unforgettable memories.

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5 Marvelous Museums in KC

Explore history, science, and interactive learning at five remarkable museums in KC offering immersive exhibits from the pony express to 19th century artifacts.

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5 Things We Love Right Now

Discover stylish, fun, and must-have finds! A chic Evelyn & Kate scarf, a quirky Otamatone, the ultimate NEX Playground, a travel jewelry case for on-the-go glam, and 1,001 Would You Rather questions for nonstop laughs. You’ll love them all!

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Best of February

Whether you’re looking for cozy indoor adventures, unique winter festivals, or early signs of spring, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Check out our top picks for the best things to do in KC this February!

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Best Kansas City Parks for Sledding

Experience Kansas City’s best sledding at iconic Brookside Park, popular Stump Park, and scenic Wyandotte County Lake Park-winter fun for all ages. Plan your perfect snowy adventure today!

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40 Things That Have Changed in 40 Years

Celebrate 40 years of KCParent and KC’s evolution! From boom boxes to AirPods, big hair to sleek styles, and malls to online shopping, the changes are astounding. Through it all, KCParent remains a trusted family resource. Here’s to 40 more!

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5 Things We Love Right Now

Get ready for a lineup of awesome finds-from gorgeous ceramic cookware and a magic skin serum to a clever bread-saving bag, adorable matching jammies, and the thinnest, sleekest phone grip ever-because everyday life deserves a little extra flair!

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Best of January

From the roar of Monster Jam trucks at the T-Mobile Center to a variety of breathtaking live performances – here’s something to thrill every member of the family.

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KC’s Best Holiday Lights

Discover the best Christmas light displays in Kansas City with our festive guide, complete with tips for a cozy, magical drive-through experience and a list of top local shows lighting up the metro this holiday season!

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Q-tip Snowflakes Craft

Keep little hands busy and minds sharp with this fun Q-tip snowflake craft, perfect for creative play and sneaky math practice on chilly days!

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Snow Names

Instead of bringing the real snow inside this time, use marshmallows as pretend tiny snowballs to practice their names, shapes, number or letters!!

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A to Z Activities For Kids

Keep kids entertained this winter with KC adventures! Enjoy indoor play, zoo visits, libraries, art, trains, ferris wheels, and more. Explore nature, splash around, or cozy up at home with crafts.

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DIY Snow Globe

Add some crafty charm to your winter by creating a DIY snow globe! You will be surprised at how easy it is to create, and you probably have most of the materials on hand.

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Santa Sightings

These are some of our favorite local Santa sightings. Santa and his elves are celebrating the holidays with special events all season long!

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SEA LIFE Giveaway

Enter to win tickets to SEA LIFE Kansas City! Explore vibrant marine life, interactive exhibits, and unforgettable underwater adventures at Kansas City’s premier aquarium.

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Christmas Cookie Recipes

The holidays and cookies are a perfect duo, and children love helping in the kitchen. We asked our Facebook Fans to share some of their recipes.

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Festive Gift Tags

What is more fun than a family craft night? Here are four easy Christmas crafts that kids of all ages are guaranteed to love.

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JINGLE!

Experience the magic of JINGLE! Kansas City at Legends Field, featuring dazzling lights, ice skating, snow tubing, holiday crafts, and festive treats. Fun for all ages, this enchanting event promises an unforgettable holiday adventure!

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Best of December

Get ready for magical shows, dazzling exhibits, and jolly family fun! Our top December picks in Kansas City are here to spread the cheer!

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Six Stop Tour: Liberty, MO

Experience an idyllic holiday in Liberty from tea time, to an outdoor Christmas pageant, Santa photos, and the best holiday shopping for everyone on your shopping list!

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Luminary Walk

Experience the magic of the holidays with the Luminary Walk at the Overland Park Arboretum, featuring glowing lights, live music, festive activities, and breathtaking candlelit paths.

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Marvelous Museums

Discover KC-area gems: Relive history at the Jesse James Bank Museum, ride a vintage carousel in Leavenworth, marvel at toys and miniatures, explore Hallmark’s creative legacy, or step into storybooks at The Rabbit hOle. Fun for all ages!

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Jingle! Giveaway

JINGLE! Kansas City, located at Legends Field, is a festive holiday attraction featuring a 10-lane snow tubing hill, a nearly quarter-mile-long ice skating trail, a walk-through holiday light maze, pop-up bars, local food trucks and more!

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Book & Snack Pairing

Celebrate the season with Bright Winter Night-a magical tale of togetherness under the northern lights-and whip up a festive, sparkly snack mix inspired by the story’s enchanting spirit and diverse forest friends!

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Hallmark Christmas Experience

Step into a Hallmark movie this holiday season at Crown Center’s Hallmark Christmas Experience, where festive markets, dazzling light shows, life-size toys, and heartwarming activities create magical memories for the whole family!

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December Date Night

At the Country Club Plaza, enjoy conveyor belt sushi at Kura, chef-driven dishes at Strang Chef Collective, or local goods while sipping drinks at Made in KC.

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Shop Local: KC Style

Shop local and spread KC cheer! Snag Chiefs gifts, handcrafted jewelry, KC-themed candles, and locally roasted coffee. From chocolates to art-inspired gifts, KC’s got something cool and quirky for everyone on your list.

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Popping Up Festive Fun

Creating decorative holiday sweets allows little ones and grown-ups alike to take part in the fun, and the end result is delicious desserts for all to enjoy.

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DIY Potpourri Simmer Packets

Create a cozy holiday aroma! Combine mandarin oranges, cinnamon sticks, cranberries, cloves, nutmeg, and optional rosemary in a bag. Gift it or simmer with water on the stovetop or slow cooker for instant Christmas cheer!

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5 Things We Love Right Now

From personalized keepsakes and tech-savvy gadgets to meaningful holiday studies and dazzling light displays, this guide has something special for everyone on your holiday list!

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Monster Jam Giveaway

Enter for a chance to win tickets to Monster Jam at the T-Mobile Center in Kansas City on January 11’12, 2025, and experience an adrenaline-filled night of roaring trucks and thrilling stunts!

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Best of November

This November, Kansas City is buzzing with holiday spirit, from festive light displays and Santa meet-and-greets to live performances, craft fairs, and holiday shopping events. There’s a little something for everyone to kick off the season!

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Holiday Movie Showings

Celebrate the season with magical holiday movie showings, or grab your matching PJs and catch Netflix’s latest animated treats for a cozy night in!

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Winter Magic Lights Review

Winter Magic Lights in Kansas City provides a vibrant, music-synchronized drive-through holiday light show with themed displays, snacks, and family-friendly fun starting at $20 per car!

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Fabulous Fall Hikes

Pack a picnic, take a hike, and enjoy a fall hike with your family at one of these 11 local sites in Kansas City. All offer scenic walking trails, and some offer bike trails and fishing ponds.

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Holiday Napkin Holders

Get your kids involved in decorating the holiday table this year by making some easy and adorable napkin holders. You only need a few materials, and kids of all ages will enjoy creating something special.

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Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm

In 1865, JB Mahaffie built a farmstead on land that the Shawnee Indians coined Olathe (“beautiful”). His farmstead would later become an inn and stagecoach stop, welcoming some 100 passengers a day. Come explore this last remaining stagecoa…

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5 Things We Love Right Now

This month we’re all about finding joy in the little things-whether it’s family fun, solving pet problems, or discovering a great read or resource!

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Sunflower Counting Craft

Fall is here, and there’s no better time to get crafty while working on some math! This cute craft encourages fine motor development and is easy to customize based on your child’s math skills.

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Outdoor Ice Skating Rinks

Ice skating in Kansas City offers a perfect blend of winter excitement and scenic fun. Whether you’re enjoying outdoor or indoor options, families can embrace the season.

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Adventures in Branson

From bowfishing at night, to riding Clydesdales, to tram rides, horseback riding, knife making, mountain coasters, and caves… these are a few fabulous adventures we highly recommend on your next Ozark getaway.

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Turkey Place Cards

Let your kids help out with Thanksgiving table decorations with these fun and simple place holders your guests will love.

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5 Marvelous Museums

Kansas City is filled with so many museums, from historical to science to art to money to animals — there is something for everyone! Visit one of our favorite local museums today to make memories with your family.

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Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium Giveaway

Explore Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium with a family ticket giveaway! Discover amazing animal exhibits and the new ocean aquarium, perfect for all ages. Enter to win a day filled with adventure and family fun!

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The Art of the Apology

Often, an apology and submission is a step toward resolving such issues and restoring relationships. How can parents teach kids the Power of “I’m Sorry”?

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Luminary Walk Giveaway

Kick off your holiday season by winning tickets for a festive walk through the lights at the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens.

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Dream Dinners

It is 5:30, and you are desperately rummaging through your fridge and cupboards trying to come up with something resembling dinner. The kids have to be at their next activity soon, and you finally give up and announce you’ll be hitting the …

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Oakhill Day School

Every parent wants a child prepared to navigate the ups and downs that life brings once they live and work away from home. At Oakhill Day School, we believe that the foundation of learning and success begins early.

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Trunk-or-Treat & Halloween Happenings 2024

Kansas City is full of Halloween excitement for families! KC Parent’s guide gives you all the info you need on the best places to go and events to enjoy, making it easy to plan a fun-filled, spooky adventure that everyone will love!

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Date Night

Enjoy a thrilling Gangster Tour, oversized pizza slices at Milwaukee Delicatessen Company, and quirky ice cream flavors at Betty Rae’s!

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A Taste of Ireland Giveaway

Enter to win tickets to see €˜A Taste of Ireland€•The Irish Music & Dance Sensation’ as it hits stages across the USA this fall, performing the show that has entertained thousands around the globe.

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Disney100: A Celebration of a KC Legend

For a century, Disney has been captivating imaginations and warming hearts with a magical brand of story-telling… and it all began in Kansas City. Learn about the legend himself and discover stories behind the magic.

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Johnson Farms Plants & Pumpkins

Discover endless fall family fun at Johnson Farms Plants & Pumpkins, with pumpkin picking, a Mahomes-themed corn maze, farm animals, fresh produce, and vibrant mums for the perfect autumn adventure.

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Carolyn’s Pumpkin Patch 2024

Enjoy dozens of attractions and activities that are fun for all ages! Check out our historic Country Carousel, Little Bud’s Railroad, the Petting Barn, the Sports Barn full of games, Apple Cannons, our brand new Barnyard Mini Golf and so much more!

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Pirate Parks

Sept. 19 is Talk Like a Pirate Day. Celebrate with family fun at one of these pirate-themed parks!

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Learning Styles

It’s amazing that there are so many ways to learn, and we need to remember this when we’re trying to help our children learn new things.

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Fall Day Trips

Check out these day trips that KC natives can find just a hop, skip and a jump away from their stomping grounds.

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Bubble Foam

This super fun bubble foam is an activity that starts in the kitchen and ends up either outside when the weather’s warmer or in the bathtub to play with if it’s colder!

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Soak Up the Last Days of Summer

Enjoy one last hurrah at these local attractions before the first school bell rings and enter our Soak Up Summer Giveaway to win FREE tickets to all your favorite local attractions.

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Dear Teachers Q & A

Summer has wound down, and now it’s back-to-school time. Preparing for the first days of the new year will yield benefits for both you and your children.

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Dear Teachers Q & A

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) states that physical activity helps build and maintain healthy bones, muscles and joints.

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Dear Teachers Q & A

Some schools only let students have this access to their current grades. Parents can request that their children let them see their grades and have meaningful discussions about them.

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Dear Teachers Q & A

Whether you were good at math in school or not, you can definitely help your child like math and have the skills to succeed in this subject.

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Dear Teachers Q & A

Before you ever sign your young children up for any formal activity, whether a sport, music, dancing or singing, they should be doing some of these activities at home with you.

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Dear Teachers Q & A

We suggest imaginative activities that expand their horizons, increase their desire to learn about a wide variety of subjects, and teach them new skills.

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Dear Teachers Q & A

Next month, many children will be returning to school. You can ensure that it is a safe experience for them by making sure they know basic safety rules.

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Dear Teachers Q & A

As a generalization, you can expect your children’s schools from preschool through high school to be more academic than the ones you attended.

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August Editor’s Letter

And just like that'August has arrived. It whistles us back to the routine tossed aside to enjoy warm afternoons, lazy evenings and adventures near and...

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Starting School in Winter

“Is everybody ready?” I gave James and Ian a smile, but they didn’t answer. It was OK; I didn’t expect one. Although James had just turned 5, and Ian was only 3, both were still preverbal.

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Kids helping kids

Some mentoring happens naturally, other opportunities take more intention-but the results are enriching for all the kids involved.

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Vive la France! Kansas City Style

This year, the Summer Olympics will be hosted in Paris from July 26 through Aug. 11. If a trip to this storied city is not in the family budget, you can still experience a taste of France in Kansas City.

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Best of July

The Little Mermaid, Beauty & the Beast, Shrek, Disney100, KC Nights, fabulous festivals and more await you this July!

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Library Launches New Reading Rocket

This month, Mid-Continent Public Library will celebrate the launch of its brand-new Reading Rocket, a state-of-the-art outreach vehicle that provides literacy services to children and families across the Kansas City metro.

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Reading Recess

Settle down with these fabulous sports-themed stories from Little Golden Books. Talk about the summer Olympics and these legendary athletes.

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Bouncing Bubbles

When you need to mix things up a bit, try this super simple craft you can easily put together out of supplies you have in your cabinet.

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Homemade Ice Cream

Nothing beats homemade ice cream on a hot summer’s day. This quick and easy recipe doesn’t need an ice cream maker-only a few simple ingredients.

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Silly Safe Catch Tuna Faces

Here’s a nutrient-dense snack for any time of day! These faces can be built by your kid for a fun activity, and they are easily customizable to whatever toppings you have on hand!

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Multigenerational Memories

KC bustles with an array of high quality museums and star-studded attractions that are sure to appeal to everyone in your crew from oldest to youngest alike.

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Alpaca brunch

From the food to the farm experience to the opportunity to snuggle with alpacas, it was winsome in every way!

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KC Celebrities

The greater Kansas City area has been home to many well-known celebrities. From the creator of the world’s most famous mouse to “the people’s President,” some famous folks have called Kansas City home.

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Summer Vacation

Grandma and Grandpa owned a small parcel of rural land that held their two bedroom home and a separate building that housed a package store where they also sold food, clothing, live bait and other fishing items.

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Cooling Kids Down

Working together to prepare a plan before it’s needed will help children learn how to calm down and discuss why the feelings occurred.

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How to Host an Olympic Party

When it comes to parties, no one knows more about the who’s, what’s and why’s than celebration guru Penny Warner, author of more than a dozen books, including The Best Party Book, Slumber Parties, Kids’ Outdoor Parties and Baby Birthday Par…

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Summer Olympic Sports for kids in KC

This summer as your family enjoys the Olympics in London, your children may be inspired by lesser-known sports brought to our attention by the Olympics. Your family can enjoy learning more about some of these sports right here in Kansas Cit…

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Super Sparkly Olympic Medals

Get into the Olympic spirit by making these sparkly medals at home with your child. It only requires a few inexpensive materials and a little creativity. Children of all ages will enjoy making their own medals to wear while celebrating the …

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Tips to Stay Safe in Hot Weather

Summer temperatures in Kansas City can pose a health risk. Vulnerable people, including disabled children, are significantly affected by periods of hot weather and have unique challenges.

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The Perfect Summer Day

What defines a perfect summer day? What leaves you so content in the moment that you wish for the day to never end? Let’s delve into the aesthetics of a perfect summer day.

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Visiting the Amelia Earhart Hangar Museum

As one of Kansas’ most celebrated legends, Amelia Earhart’s legacy lives on. This inspirational museum celebrates Amelia’s many aspirations, interests, and story, while inspiring visitors to pursue their dreams.

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Family Fun at Worlds of Fun

Worlds of Fun has been a part of my summertime memories for as long as I can remember. This year the park celebrates its 50th anniversary and the return of the Zambezi Zinger, my very first roller coaster.

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Best of June in KC

Kick off summer with a season of fun outdoor shows, memorable exhibits, festivals, and great events. Our top picks for June in Kansas City are here!

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The Little War Exhibit

The latest exhibition at the National WWI Museum and Memorial, The Little War, is on display thru February 2025 in Exhibit Hall. The Little War tells the story of the war through the lives of the children who lived it.

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DIY Kinetic Sand

Do your kids love to play with kinetic sand, but you don’t love the price tag? Then this is the perfect project for you to make with your crew!

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Go Explore the Country

Johnson Farms Plants & Pumpkins in Belton, Missouri, is a beautiful agritourism attraction where you can shop the beautiful nursery and pick apples in the...

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Go Explore the Northland

Enjoy both Worlds of Fun and Oceans of Fun in Kansas City, Missouri, for the price of one ticket. Worlds of Fun boasts eight world-class roller coasters, including the...

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Go Explore Kansas

Head west to Legends Outlets in Kansas City, Kansas, for a day of shopping and local attractions. The shopping center features tributes to local celebrities...

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Go Explore Johnson County, Kansas

Living history museums are a favorite local attraction, with several historic sites telling the area's history through reenactments and hands-on education. Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop &...

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Shop Local

KC is home to many delightful things-including a football team with back-to-back Super Bowl wins-and you won’t be disappointed when it comes to fun, eclectic, local shops either.

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Seasonal Sojourns

Here’s your guide to navigating the City of Fountains throughout the year, complete with packing tips and the best ways to get here.

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Adventure Awaits

Are you someone who loves to always be moving? Would you rather ride the tallest waterslide than relax in the hot tub? If you, like I, love excitement and adventure, read on. You’ll find lots of fun and thrills to be had in the KC metro.

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Exhibits to See in 2024

Local museums host outstanding exhibits including displays celebrating Disney, a child’s perspective of WWI, a celebration of American citizens, robotics, and art.

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Dad Fashion

Here are six dad fashion trends you can rock right now. The best news? They’re likely already in your father’s closet, and that will save you money-a total dad move.

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Fallen Apples

“Dad, what are you doing?” Patrick, my oldest son, sat next to me as I parked the car in an unusual manner, but he wasn’t done. “This is the stupidest thing I’ve ever seen.”

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Editor’s Letter

Welcome, June! Summertime is here and comes with unrushed, unscheduled no-school days, warm temperatures and longer days, and loads of local events. We are ready...

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Disney100 Union Station Giveaway

KC Parent Magazine is giving Two Families 4 Tickets each to enjoy Disney100: The Exhibition, Science City at Union Station and Gottlieb Planetarium… the ultimate Summer Fun Bundle!

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Best of April

Enjoy extraordinary shows, exhibits, and family fun. Our top picks for April in Kansas City are here!

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Date Night: River Market

Besides the farmers market itself, the River Market area has plenty to offer for a fun date day. You can shop, eat and play all within just a few blocks!

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The Pizza Man

            My husband LOVES Chicago style hot dogs with the works. Any time we are in the Windy City we need to make sure that one of our meals is hot dogs! I am happy to have found The Pizza Man in Lenexa where my husband can now go for his hot…

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Finches and Gerbils and Dogs, Oh My!!

     As moms, there is this tendency to make sure we are providing our kids with the very best – in technology, opportunity, games, etc. It can sometimes be covered up with our good intention to help Junior get ahead in life, though in actuality,…

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Dogs on the Titanic

Branson is a great destination for those who want to take a vacation but don’t want to travel too far from Kansas City. With so many great family-friendly attractions, it is perfect for families with children of all ages. In the midst of al…

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Her Fear is MY Fear

   My daughter has a fear. There is nothing quite like watching your child when they are scared and that motherly instinct kicks in to comfort and console them. I don’t have to face this often. My girls have very few fears (in fact this may be th…

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Summer Movies in Kansas City: 2010

This summer, enjoy a Free Movie at one of several area locations, or enjoy in the nearly extinct novelty of the Drive-In Theater! We have your complete Guide to Summer Movies in Kansas City 2010!

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When the Dog Bites

Dr. Stephen Lassen, associate professor of behavioral pediatrics at KU Medical Center, says that childhood fears are common. “Fears regarding dogs tend to peak at age 5, then decline over time,” Lassen says. “(Children) need to know that th…

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When Pets Make Life Hard

I have to tell you up front that my wife and I are pet people. We really are. We like having pets in the house and with the kids, as part of our family. At the height of our pet ownership (addiction some would say) we had two dogs, a cat, and …

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Man’s Best Friend or “One More Thing?”

     Our dearly beloved dog, Toby, has been a part of our family since the beginning. After only 4 months of marriage, my husband and I fell head over heels over a miniature Schnauzer with floppy ears and true “puppy dog eyes.” It was the day aft…

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Choosing the Best Pet for Your Family

According to the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, raising children with pets can benefit a child’s self-esteem and self-confidence and can encourage compassion and empathy. But, unlike a sweater that you can return if it d…

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Kansas City’s BEST Hot Dogs

July is National Hot Dog Month and we’re celebrating with your guide to the BEST Hot Dogs in Kansas City and a special visit from the Oscar Mayer Wienermobile in celebration of its 75th Birthday!

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Prepping Your Dog for Baby

Roughly two-thirds of American families own at least one dog. Add baby to the mix and oftentimes the family dog drops quickly on the priority list or is removed from the household altogether. Before your baby arrives, prepare your dog for t…

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Our Week with a Dog

I’m not much of a pet person (as in, not at all). So it was in a moment of weakness when I agreed to dog-sit for my sister’s dog…

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Kansas City Hot Dog Guide

Ketchup, mustard, relish… foot long coneys… European sausages… you name it, Kansas City’s got it! Find the very best Hot Dogs in Kansas City!

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The Best Kind of Card

After we finished our second reading of Go Dog Go for the night, I had to crack the cover open yet one last time. On the inside of the dust jacket lay a scrapbook paper cutout of a dog with a handwritten message inside:

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How Family Pets Benefit Kids

Pet adoption is no small consideration, but for many, it’s a rite of childhood. Whether it is a hermit crab or goldfish, a dog, cat or horse, children enjoy the love and companionship offered by animals. Pets can offer several developmental…

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Animals and Kids with Autism

Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) has proven to be incredibly beneficial for children with autism. According to AnimalAssistedTherapyPrograms.org, an animal in session can help a child with emotional awareness, behavioral management skills, com…

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Kansas City’s Spring Festival Guide

It’s the beginning of Festival Season! Discover the best Spring Festivals in the Kansas City area. From trendy boutique shopping to old fashioned county fairs, ethnic festivals with delicious delicacies and local barbecue festivals… there…

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Protect Pets this Winter

Families are encouraged to do everything to protect their own pets by bringing them inside and giving them warm and dry shelter and unfrozen water this winter.

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Ask the Experts

We have a wide range of experts on hand to answer your questions on everything
from pregnancy and birth to sleeping, feeding, fitness and general well-being.

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The Empty Dog Dish

We hadn’t had Precious since she was a puppy, but when Sandi’s brother passed away, his dog became part of our family, helping us deal with our loss.

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The Perfect Mother’s Day

Whether you are treating your own mom, your grandmother, the mother of your children or another special woman in your life, you want her to feel loved and appreciated.

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Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed Review

Get ready to rock and roll with everyone’s favorite hairless rodent, the naked mole rat! Inspired by Mo Willems’ book of the same name, Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed, The Coterie’s most recent production.

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The Thorn: Review

The Thorn is an epic passion drama that is well written and well produced. The Thorn is showing in Kansas City thru April 4, 2024.

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The 2024 Eclipse

On April 8, a total solar eclipse will pass through the United States. We have tips to enjoy the eclipse with your family.

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Six-Stop Tour: Go Green

April kicks off spring and brings Earth Day €¦ excellent reminders of the importance of going green and taking steps to reduce, reuse and recycle.

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Earth Day DIY Crayons

This Earth Day we are focusing on reducing, reusing and recycling some of our craft supplies! We have a giant pile of broken and short crayons, which makes this the perfect project for Earth Day!

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Finding Your Village

Whether you’re a stay-at-home mom or a working mom whose whole world has been thrown upside down, this is where the importance of finding your village comes in.

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Caterpillar Cards

Are you the room mom who needs a cute, easy and quick card from all the class? This card craft is perfect to customize for a group or for one kid!

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STEMS Giveaway

Enter to win two VIP tickets to STEMS: A Garden Soiree at the Overland Park Arboretum on June 15, a $500 value.

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A Walk in the Park€¦

Whether you like wooded trails, waterways or something a bit more urban, Kansas City’s parks offer something for everyone. These are a few of our favorite places to take a walk.

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Best Picnic Spots in KC

It’s the best time of year in Kansas City! The dreary winter is over, so let’s put down our phones and iPads, pack up a picnic lunch and head out to enjoy the fresh air with our families. Here are some great picnic locations, as well as fun…

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Black Hoof Park / Lake Lenexa

This week, we visited Black Hoof Park at Lake Lenexa. The 160-acre park with a 35-acre, deep-water Lake Lenexa, the park is scenic and perfect for a variety of interests – with trails for walking, hiking, or biking, a nice playground, and …

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Penguin Park

How lucky your child is if this is your neighborhood corner park! Penguin Park is the perfect place to plan your child’s outdoor birthday party, a family picnic or your next play date outing. This fun and playful park includes a 26-foot tal…

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Antioch Park: The Dodge Town Park

Antioch Park is one of the Best Parks in Kansas City. The 44 acre park features two fishing lakes, walking path, tennis courts, picnic shelters, basketball courts, restrooms, playground equipment, a rose garden, paved parking and cook out g…

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Kansas City’s Best Parks

One of the best things about Kansas City is its wealth of wonderful parks and playgrounds for families. Discover our favorite parks in Kansas City and why we love them!

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Kansas City’s Best Parks for Fall Fun

It’s Autumn in Kansas City… the air is crisp, the leaves will be changing, and that means wonderful weather for a day of family fun at the park. Check out our favorite parks for leaf watching, football tossing, and marshmallow roastin…

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Best Kite Flying Parks in Kansas City

Spring is an excellent time for kite flying in Kansas City! Choose your favorite park with wide open spaces, watch for power lines and go fly kites! This is your Kansas City guide to great kite flying parks!

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Antioch Park: One of KC’s Best Parks

Antioch Park
6501 Antioch Road, Merriam, KS
Antioch Park is one of the Best Parks in Kansas City. The 44 acre park features two fishing lakes, walking path, tennis courts, picnic shelters, basketball courts, restrooms, playground equipment, a r…

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Best Kite Flying Parks in Kansas City

Spring is an excellent time for kite flying in Kansas City! Choose your favorite park with wide open spaces, watch for power lines and go fly kites! This is your Kansas City guide to great kite flying parks!

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The NEW Sobela Ocean Aquarium

With jaw-dropping exhibits and so many love-at-first-site animals to enjoy, the new Sobela Ocean Aquarium at the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium rightfully earns its place as the MUST-SEE new attraction of the year!

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Best of March

Enjoy festivals, shows, exhibits, Spring Break, St. Patrick’s Day, Easter and the BEST of Spring with our top picks for March!

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March Editor’s Letter

Bring on spring! After that long winter stretch in January when I was sure I might never leave my house again, the warmer temperatures and...

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Traveling Bag of Tricks

Only motherhood can redefine the contents of a woman’s handbag from necessities like department store lipstick and tiny tubes of fragrant hand cream to dollar-store trinkets that amaze and entertain little ones for hours.

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Six-Stop Tour: Lenexa, KS

From Lenexa Rec Center’s fabulous indoor pool and waterslides to Urban Air Adventure Park’s incredible indoor trampoline park … discover six fabulous reasons we love Lenexa.

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Shamrock Squish Paint

Ready to take painting to the next level? This homemade squish paint will definitely be one to remember! This is a longer project, so allow at least an hour between setting up and cleaning up!

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Editor’s Letter

Welcome to February-with so much to love and to do in Kansas City! The pink and red images that surround us this month warm at...

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Priorities in Life

Our friends, Steve and Marcie, had just been married at our church, and I’d taken it upon myself to share a wee bit of wisdom I’d accumulated over the years.

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Birthday Traditions

Traditions give us a sense of comfort, purpose and belonging. We can rely on them like old friends, and we call on them periodically to keep us connected.

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Best of January

Disney on Ice, Monster Jam, Percy Jackson, the Nelson-Atkins’ Lunar New Celebration, great exhibits and winter fun for the family featured in our top picks this month in KC!

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Zuppa Toscana

Savor a slower pace and let your Crock-Pot do the work for dinner. You may have much of this on hand already.

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Structuring Downtime

How is a busy family supposed to balance all the sports, activities, work and school obligations that fill our calendars while still enjoying some much needed downtime?

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Spas, Salons and Self-Care

Moms work hard for their families every day. Between the carpool, their 9-5 job, cooking dinner and everything else that comes with running a household, moms really have a need to carve out some time for self-care and pampering.

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Growth Mindset

Children taught to have a growth mindset are found to be happier, healthier and have greater success in all spheres in life.

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On-Hand Creativity

Creativity is crucial to children’s overall development. It develops their problem-solving skills, concentration and critical thinking skills, improves their self-esteem and helps them understand how things in the world work.

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Children’s Mementos

Ever feel inundated? Papers, art projects, cute mementos, sweet baby clothing, awards, favorite toys and more have a way of accumulating as the years go by.

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Starved for Sleep

Expecting a baby is an exciting experience, but it brings about monumental changes in a woman’s body that aren’t always easy to adjust to.

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Toddler Won’t Talk

Language development is an essential part of a child’s overall growth and development. It enables kids to express their thoughts, needs and emotions effectively.

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Baby Name Apps

In this technologically advanced age, apps, name generators, websites, books and even artificial intelligence (AI) can help take the burden off parents.

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December Editor’s Letter

Clearly I enjoy all the flair and festivity of the season!This season centers on a particularly famous baby. Whether you've evaluated Him or not, His...

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Snow Names

Employing chalk to make some festive holiday lights, this fun project is sure to help your little ones become crafters!

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Problem Solving Know-How

As parents, our primary responsibility is to explicitly teach skills that don’t come naturally to children, and one of those is problem solving skills and strategies.

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Untangling Entitlement

The good news is parents and caregivers can take an active approach to prevent the entitlement trap and raise grateful and responsible children with a strong work ethic.

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No-Stress November

Let’s face it, 2020 has thrown moms the ultimate curveball, over and over-and over-again. Try these tips for a No-Stress November!

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Fork Stamp Turkey Nameplates

Get into the Thanksgiving spirit with these super cute and super easy Thanksgiving Day nameplates that are multiuse. Your dinner plates in disguise will really brighten up your table!

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Thanksgiving Fun All Month Long!

Celebrate Thanksgiving in Kansas City with family fun all month long! Enjoy music, arts, nature, stories, and special exhibits to enjoy Thanksgiving with your Family in Kansas City!

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Turkey Time: Entertaining the Little Ones

Sometimes, it’s the little turkeys – not the centerpiece feast – that can be tough to manage during Thanksgiving. By giving your younger guests something to do while the main course is being prepared, they will stay busy and feel like they …

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Thanksgiving Traditions and Birthdays

    Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays of the year. Although I love getting together with family, enjoying a day of good food, and getting a break from the commercialism that surrounds so many holidays, Thanksgiving can get a little craz…

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Thankful Thoughts

    I enjoy reading newspaper and magazine columns, especially humor columns. Dave Barry is one of my favorite national writers, while locally I have always enjoyed Joe Posnanski’s columns in the paper. Each year I loved to read Joe’s Thanksgivin…

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Thanksgiving: A Comparison

For nearly twenty years (we have been married almost 15 years, and we dated for five years before we got married), my wife and I have enjoyed two “dinners” on Thanksgiving. We start off at my parent’s house and eat the “early” dinner and then we …

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“Last Holiday as a Family of 4”

    Thanksgiving 2009… it wasn’t like ANY other I’ve ever experienced and yet it was REALLY great!     My family lives in Kansas City, my husband’s family is in rural Missouri about 2 1/2 hours away. With the baby due one week from Thanksgiving…

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For the Kids

I awoke on Thanksgiving morning and lay in bed. On any other day, I would have enjoyed the slothful idleness, but not on this day. Sandi’s mother had passed away six months earlier and, for the first time in my life, I had no living, older …

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A Fresh Perspective on Thanksgiving

Are you thankful for fingerprints and smudges? Noisy children in the back seat? Giggles at bedtime? Requests for homework help late at night? Consider a fresh perspective on Thanksgiving this year…

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Thanksgiving Ideas

With Thanksgiving right around the corner, I’ve been considering some fun ideas for Thanksgiving this year to help us remember what the holiday is all about. Today, the girls and I made a “Count Down to Thanksgiving Turkey.” We made 25 feathers (…

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Thanking Teachers

 With only a few weeks left of school it’s time to begin thinking about end-of-the-year gifts for teachers. As a teacher for 10 years I received all sorts of gifts from my students from the useful (gift cards) to the practical (notepads and co…

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Thankful Tree

Am I the only one with an “2 A.M. To Do List” list? You know, the kind authored at 2 in the morning, while you’re either feeding baby, up after a pint-sized nightmare, or simply tossing and turning over your upcoming mother-of-the-year award entr…

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A Time to Give Thanks

With the Thanksgiving holiday just past and the Christmas season upon us, this is a great time to take a few moments to reflect on the past year and offer thanks to all of the blessings we have experienced over the past year. This is a time to b…

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Shhh, Mom’s Sleeping

“Don’t worry about a thing,” I told Sandi when she returned from work on Thanksgiving morning. “Go to sleep. The boys and I will make Thanksgiving dinner for you.”

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Thankful Thoughts

I was in St. Louis recently for my nephew’s birthday. My mom had a copy of last November’s KC Parent sitting out. When I inquired as to why she had that particular issue on the coffee table, she said she held onto it because she liked my ed…

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Thanksgiving Treat

I slammed the door behind me, but nobody noticed. Even though it was Thanksgiving morning, I was fed up. More than the dreary TV programming, I fled the bickering of my brothers and sisters. On a holiday, you’d think it would be easier to g…

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Beyond the Turkey:

Thanksgiving€¦ a season of gratitude, family, memory-making and giving back. Here are some ideas for celebrating beyond the dinner.

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Give Thanks

Marrying into a family that upholds several traditions has been meaningful to me. Now that we’re eight years and three children into our marriage, it’s been particularly special developing our own traditions and seeing the impact they have …

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Over the River

“Come on, kids. We’ll be late.”

I used to say that. We’d pile into the car with a pie or something special and dash to Grandma’s for Thanksgiving dinner. I enjoyed the food, but I loved spending time with my extended family even more. I kn…

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Thanksgiving Hacks

While there is no real way to “cheat” at entertaining for the holidays, I hope you can use some of these with your family this holiday season.

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November Editor’s Letter

How did we get to November? I can’t believe Thanksgiving is upon us, and the holiday season is knocking on the door.

For the past 18 years, my dear mother-in-law has prepared and hosted Thanksgiving. And, unlike the Thanksgiving dinners I ate …

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A Life of Thanks-Living

Thanksgiving is a big holiday in the United States: big meals, big gatherings, big parades and big football games, followed by big retail sales. Instead of just one big day for Thanksgiving, what would happen if our families adopted lifesty…

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Kansas City’s Thanksgiving Fun Guide

Celebrate Thanksgiving across Kansas City with these special themed events just for kids! Thanksgiving-themed storytelling events, craft projects, 5ks, and EVEN Turkey Bowling on ice…. enjoy Thanksgiving with your family with these fun id…

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Dinner’s Done. Now What?

After all the hours of prep work that goes into Thanksgiving dinner, the meal seems as though it’s gobbled up in no time flat. Now what? Here’s a bounty of activity ideas, big and small, for the entire family to enjoy after the big feast.

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Football on Thanksgiving

With Thanksgiving dinner over, Mom and Grandma enjoyed one another’s company as they cleaned while Dad and Grandpa watched TV football, leaving the kids free to find their own amusements.

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Thankful Thank You Cards

With Thanksgiving right around the corner, what better time to express our thanks and gratitude than now with these cute little homemade cards!

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Thanksgiving Hacks

“Remember that each family has their own unique hurdles to jump across regardless of how it’s presented on social media.”

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I’m Thankful for My Family

“If you’d like Thanksgiving dinner, we’ll have to make it, and I can’t do it without you. That means no fighting. Got it? Let’s make this the best Thanksgiving meal Mom ever had. What do you say?”

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Thankful A to Z

For a fun family activity, get your kids thinking about gratitude by helping them make a list of things your family is thankful for.

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Before the Feast

“OK, James, listen up.” On the week before the holiday, we got some wonderful news, and I needed to share it. “Aunt Debbie and Uncle Jeff are coming for Thanksgiving. That means we have some work to do.”

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The John Wornall House Museum

Imagine a museum where kids can use all five senses—yes, including touch—to learn about history. It really happens at the Wornall House Museum, because life there revolves around the children.

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The Essence of Australia

Summer in Australia means outdoor entertaining. It means combining delicious food, great wine and unique creative elements to maximize the ambiance of an al fresco celebration.

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Summer Festivals & Fairs in KC: 2013

It’s Summer in Kansas City and that means Festivals! Whether you fancy a good old fashioned county fair, or an ethnic festival with delicious delicacies, or something a bit more out of the ordinary… there is something for everyone!

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Pumpkin Treats for Breakfast? Yes, Please!

For this week’s installment of pumpkin goodness, we’re going to focus on breakfast. Which, coincidentally is my favorite meal of the day (followed by dinner and then lunch comes in a distant third, in case you were wondering).

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After School Pumpkin Treat

I made pumpkin granola bars for an after school snack. After my first taste, I would have said they were just okay, but, they grew on me. I liked them better the 2nd day and it was the perfect accompaniment to my morning coffee.

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Apps to Ease the Holiday Season

Although the holidays are a wonderful time of year, they also can be stressful and overwhelming for busy moms and their families. In fact, the American Psychological Association (APA) found that nearly half of all women in the United States…

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Make Baby’s Birthday a Smash

For many parents, a baby’s first birthday celebration wouldn’t be complete without a messy, hands-on cake tasting. According to a recent Betty Crocker survey conducted by KRC Research, 58 percent of moms think watching the birthday baby sco…

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It’s Strawberry Picking Time

It has become a family tradition to visit Gieringer’s Orchard in Edgerton (just 40 min. drive for us in South KC… generally 30-60 min from most spots in the metro) for a day of strawberry picking.

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Summertime Sweets

You can turn any summer day into a special occasion with a cool ice cream treat. From classic favorites to innovative new flavors, it only takes a scoop or two to bring out plenty of smiles.

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Best Barbecue in KC

Slow-smoked meat, sweet and tangy sauce, melt-in-your-mouth juicy ribs€¦it has been said that in Kansas City, barbecue isn’t just a meal, it’s a way of life.

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31 Refreshers That Take 15 Minutes or Less

There’s nothing like the feeling of having the whole house clean all at once. But who has the time for such a consuming job? You can still enjoy the benefits of refreshment that come with a big cleaning by engaging in quick 15-minute tasks-…

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Classic Summer Fun: Kansas City Style

Summer…the season of fresh lemonade, fun in the sprinkler and blowing bubbles. This summer, upgrade the fun with special twists on the family classics and super cool ways to enjoy these traditions around Kansas City.

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Back-to-School Through the Years

This month, as kids across the metro embark on a new school year with sharpened pencils and crisp notebooks, we step into the KC Parent archives for a peek at some of our past back-to-school issues. While many hot topics of the ’80s remain …

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Blended Bliss

Looking for a healthy, convenient and delicious breakfast boost, afternoon refuel or sweet treat? If so, break out the blender and whip up a delicious and nutritious smoothie.

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From Easy Art to a Sweet Treat

Spooky, silly or symbolic, carved pumpkins are an essential ingredient to any Halloween celebration. This year, scare up some special fun for your party with a wicked watermelon carving, instead—but don’t stop there.

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Smarter Snacking

When hunger strikes, it can be tempting to reach for the closest treat, even if it’s laden with fat and empty calories. Make it easier to enjoy better-for-you snacks with these three simple steps that appeal to your taste and your waist.

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No Stress November

Discover favorite No Stress November traditions to help your family enter the holiday season with a focus on love, making happy memories and sharing time together—and learning to laugh if the turkey burns!

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KC International Passport

Locals and visitors alike know Kansas City has become a top-rate metropolis with all the quality attractions it has to offer-places like Union Station, Crown Center, the 18th & Vine District, the Crossroads and the Power & Light District. B…

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Time Flies! Easy Time-Savers for Parents

From making healthy meals for the family each day and running kids to practices, to paying bills and fitting in a little time for yourself, time is of the essence. Unfortunately, there just never seems to be enough of it to go around. The …

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Better Mornings

You know how it goes. “Get your shoes on! We are late! Did you brush your teeth?! I don’t know where your library books are. That’s not my responsibility. Can you please eat more breakfast? You cannot wear that. Because it’s 45 degrees outs…

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Spoon Up Tradition

When cooler temperatures call for something to warm you up, good, old-fashioned soups and stews may be just what you need.

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Snack On All Summer Long

Whether you plan to embrace or dread the summer heat, you can count on one thing: needing to feed your kiddos’ sweet and sweaty appetites all summer long.

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March Editor’s Letter

It’s March! I look forward to this month’s arrival every year. In my mind, it signals that hope (read that as warmer temps and longer days) is on the horizon. We’ve made it through the depths of winter, and spring is just around the corner! Yes, …

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The ABCs of Fall

Our area boasts some of the tastiest treats, memory-making locales and miles of trails, fall foliage and activities.

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Pregnancy Nutrition Basics

Congratulations on your pregnancy! While your baby is developing both physically and mentally in your womb, your food and drink choices are very important to the baby’s growth and development, as well as to your immune system.

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Staycation or Vacation

If you are staying close to home this summer, MCPL has the perfect staycation resources for you to create virtual cultural experiences.

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A Hoppy Easter Cake

Warmer days at the start of spring mean Easter is almost here, and the big bunny himself will be hopping around in no time to deliver goodies.

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Back-to-School Meals Moms and Kids Love

It’s time again for the back-to-school rush! With the kids needing rides here and there, deadlines at work, and the never-ending list of chores, it can be hard to find the time to put together a delicious family meal and stay in budget.

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Super Sandwiches to the Rescue

Supermoms (and dads) often find themselves struggling when it comes to putting together great tasting, nutritious school lunches. Time, money and the same old routine can put a good lunch in danger.

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Party Time! Book Reviews

Yes, reserving time at the roller rink for a birthday party is EASY. But if you have some extra energy, a DIY party is oh-so-much-more exciting for your child. Need some ideas? Here are some great books for Birthday Party Ideas!

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Cook Like a Top Chef at Home

These days, people are making fewer visits to their favorite restaurants opting, instead, to dine at home. Inspired by cookbooks and television programs, such as Bravo’s “Top Chef,” home cooks are getting increasingly more creative in the k…

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Delectable Flair for Fall Desserts

The best desserts are those that dazzle the eye as well as the palate. Whether it’s a decadent cake lavished in frosting or ice cream drizzled with an indulgent confection, dessert is the final course that can blend flare, sophistication an…

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Do You Have A Reluctant Reader?

Do you have a reluctant reader in your home? Are you struggling to get your child to read one page? There is no one simple solution in helping your child increase her reading fluency but with consistency, hard work, and a positive attitude …

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Holiday Cookies 101

Home-baked goodness is the most economical and heartfelt choice for gifts and entertaining, but rolling out dough and cutting decorative cookies can be time consuming and messy. With a cookie press, bakers can achieve gift-worthy results qu…

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Easy Easter Brunch

Hosting an Easter brunch is a great way to bring friends and family together. And it doesn’t have to be hard or expensive. Here are some simple things you can do to ensure a memorable celebration without the hassle.

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Easter Bunny Cake

This darling Bunny Cake is a great way to enjoy the happiness and rebirth that comes along with the season. Children will love helping with this simple Bunny Cake recipe because they can customize it to make it their own.

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10 Rainy Day Activities in KC

Rain doesn’t have to be drab and dreary and it doesn’t have to mean a day cooped up inside with bored and cranky kids. Kansas City gets more than its fair share of rain, so planning for a little indoor fun is necessary for the savvy KC pa…

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After School Clubs

When the school bell rings, do your kids run to the TV or video games? After a hard day at school, students need some R & R, but it doesn’t have to come with a plug! Savvy moms can start an After School Club to inspire new hobbies and skill…

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Because We All Have to Eat!

 A friend once told me that she likes to cook but she doesnâ’t like to get a meal on the table every night.  I didnâ’t understand what she meant.  Itâ’s not surprising I didnâ’t understand as at the time I didnâ’t have children and she had two.  …

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Freezer Meal Swaps

When take-out takes out your diet and the rising cost of food results in more rice and beans variations than your family can stomach, take heart! Parents in Kansas City are serving up home-cooked meals and saving time and money in heaping m…

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Sundae Funday

Every week needs more Sundaes. Celebrate a great meal, a special occasion, a terrific day or just up the “cool factor” of any gathering by scooping up one of America’s favorite treats.

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Rediscovering the Joy of Cooking

  True story…   I recently picked up some ready- made cookie dough since I was short on time.  I let my son have one of the baked cookies.  After taking one bite, he looked at me and asked, â”Did Ms. Jâ-teach you how to make these?  These are…

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Top 10 Foodie Destinations in Kansas City

Do you make it a habit to keep Bon Appetit, Rachael Ray, Gourmet Magazine, and Cooking Light on your nightstand right next to your most current copy of KC Parent Magazine? We’ve rounded up our favorite foodie destinations for decadent famil…

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The Berry Patch

Take the family on an unforgettable blueberry picking trip! We have great tips for successful blueberry picking in Kansas City.

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Lenexa Chili Challenge

There’s something magical about fall. The sights. The smells. And the foods- oh, the foods! I don’t know about you, but it’s pretty much a given that the first day that “chill” is in the air, soup will be on the table in my house (and let’s…

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Holiday Snacking 101

From the parties to the family get-togethers, the holidays highlight the best and worst in our diets. As adults, we are responsible for teaching our children good eating habits. It is fun to splurge during the holidays on treats, but we als…

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Baking Christmas Cookies

Each family has their own traditions that make Christmas, Christmas. While I can tend towards the Grinchy Scrooge attitude about the holidays, there is one thing that can turn that attitude around in a tick. Baking Christmas cookies. We hav…

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Picking Blueberries at The Berry Patch

We look forward to blueberry picking every year. The Berry Patch is a family owned and operated local farm where blueberries and blackberries are grown and guests come to pick their own delicious fruit.

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Snack Time

Bringing food on trips helps stretch the family dollar and are typically healthier than concession stand selections. These are a few of our favorite tips and tricks for snack time on the go!

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Fall Moms Night Out Inspiration

And fall is arriving. If you are a bucket-lister, and you are ready to toss out your summer “to do” list, start your fall one with this. Organize a Moms Night Out with some girlfriends.

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Review: Murder at the Royal

If you’re looking for a novel idea for your next Moms’ Night Out, Date Night, or celebration with your teens… the Mystery Train of Kansas City may just be the ticket.

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Homemade Applesauce

While the world might be in a tizzy over all things pumpkin right now (I blame it on early arrival of Starbuck’s PSL!), September’s cool and crisp days are a perfect backdrop to one of my other favorite fall flavors- apple!

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Editor’s Letter

When I was a child, my mom didn’t bake a lot, and she really didn’t make cookies or anything special during the holidays. But, my Grandma-now SHE was a baker. Every December I could always look forward to a batch of Grandma’s Swedish heirloom coo…

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A Festive July 4th Feast

Independence Day only comes once a year, so make it count and invite your favorite guests over for a memorable event. You’ll go out with a bang when you serve up these palate-pleasing dishes at your patriotic party.

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5 Things Every Parent Should Know

Face it, there are A LOT of things we are expected to know as parents, and as you have learned, children don’t come with a manual—but they do come with a steep learning curve!

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Encouraging Baby’s Love of Reading

Begin your baby’s literature journey even before his birth. Suggest a children’s book theme for your baby shower or have guests bring their favorite children’s book in lieu of a card to stock your children’s library. Also asking seasoned m…

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Deviled Eggs, Three Ways

Deviled eggs are a great source of protein and healthy fats for developing brains and bodies. Mixing them up with multiple flavors also keeps boredom at bay.

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Pregnancy Power Foods

You need to feed your pregnant body with proper nutrition to insure that you stay healthy and that your unborn child develops as he should.

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Surviving Bed Rest

Bed rest often comes as a surprising prescription for pregnant women. The good news is that these days, bed rest should occur very rarely.

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Rainy Day Rescues

You’ve constructed your 10th Play-Doh snake, watched every episode of Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood and witnessed your toddler run his fifth lap around the kitchen. And it still hasn’t stopped raining outside.

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The Art of the Thank You Note

In today’s texting, Instagramming and Facetiming world, there is something special to actually making a card, buying one or printing one off the computer, then thoughtfully writing a thank you for a specific item received or time spent together.

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All-American Summer Flavor

Turn all-American watermelon into delectable summer treats with recipes for Patriotic Petit Fours, Americana Basket, Star Cake, Watermelon Almond Tart, and
Red, White and Blue Watermelon Sundaes.

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Pajama Breakfast

Amber Hodgson shares her tradition of Pancake Breakfasts and Kansas City Parent readers share their favorite Pancake Recipes.

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Apple Pie – An Autumn Classic

As the chill of autumn arrives, our palates pine for homemade apple pie.  Apples are available in abundance, and Deep Dish Apple Pie is easy and delicious – even for the novice baker – with this step-by-step recipe from the Wilton Test Kitc…

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After School Clubs Foster Fun and Friends

When the school bell rings, do your kids run to the TV or video games? After a hard day at school, students need some R & R, but it doesn’t have to come with a plug! Savvy moms can start an After School Club to inspire new hobbies and skill…

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Handmade Holidays

Holiday giving does not have to be elaborate or expensive. More and more, people are finding that not only are handmade gifts easy on the wallet, they tend to have more meaning, too.

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Wintertime Fun

When winter brings along cabin fever, we recommend these surefire books to perk up a cold afternoon! Fun activities, creative ideas, kid-friendly recipes, and famiy games will beat the winter blahs.

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Serving Dinner

 I had to take a deep breath as I recently heard one of my children exclaim, â”I donâ’t like it! â”  She added, â”I took a bite and I just donâ’t like it.â”  Â The thing she didnâ’t like was a new recipe I had tried out for dinner.  I was especiall…

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Set A Timer

     During the winter season, I find myself baking more tasty food items for our family to enjoy. Whether it is a scrumptious dessert or a new dinner recipe, our oven gets more use when it’s cold outside. In my days before kids, I used to be abl…

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Peach Picking in Kansas City

Peaches are ready for the picking! Peach Cobblers, Peaches ‘n Cream, Peach Popsicles, Peach Preserves, and and fresh fruity treats all summer long. Discover some of the best family-owned farms in the area and make delicious family memories!

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Tips for Bonding with Long Distance Relatives

My kids can’t just run down the street to Nana’s house for milk and cookies. Luckily, technology enables us to communicate faster and easier with far-flung relatives than ever before. But can kids really build a close relationship with dist…

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A Pinterest a Day Keeps the Boredom Away…

Have you caught the Pinterest bug yet? I wandered to the site one day and was immediately captivated…. for years I’d been filing away ideas I found in magazines and on websites in folders on my computer or real folders, but here was a site that…

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Strawberry Picking Time is Here!

It’s time for Strawberry Picking! Learn about Lawrence’s own u-pick strawberry patch, great picking tips, Day Trip ideas, and recipes to enjoy with your beautiful berries!

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Super Summer Schedule

Every summer we blog about TONS of Summer Fun Ideas in KC. This summer, we’re helping you organize those ideas with our Super Summer Schedule!

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Fire Up the Grill

July is here, and it’s the perfect time to fire up the grill. Marinated beef kabobs, juicy cheeseburgers, delicious steak and watermelon salad… try one of these new recipes from the Beef Council tonight.

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Stock up on Freezer Meals

My girls and I took a day at the beginning of summer and spent it cooking meals. We froze the fruits of our labor so that I wouldn’t have to spend so much time in the kitchen cooking and could spend more of the time at the pool and outside …

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Kid-Friendly Snacks to Nourish Mind and Tummy

Parents don’t often encourage their children to play with their food. However, when snack time offers the opportunity to nourish both the body and the mind, that’s a treat any parent would be glad to serve their little ones.

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An Ingredient for Life

As any chef will tell you, a recipe is only as good as its ingredients. Some of those ingredients are less important than others, while a dish can be ruined without one certain element that is vital to its success. For the Community Blood C…

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Classic Comfort Foods

Ah, comfort food. Simple, hearty dishes full of flavor and good memories. There’s nothing quite like sitting down to one of these family favorites after a long day. Somehow, it just makes everything seem better.

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Kansas City’s Super Summer Schedule

Every summer we blog about TONS of Summer Fun Ideas on KCParent.com – it can be hard to remember every idea you want to try. So, to help you organize all the fun ideas and have fun choosing what to do with your child, we thought you’d enjoy…

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Healthy Fast Food

You can create your own arsenal of healthy “fast food” without succumbing to the golden arches or running for the border.

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Smart Start

A commitment to health and wellness means taking care of yourself and your family, exercising and eating right. The new year is the perfect time to refocus your goals and make better health a priority.S

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Quick Click Fixes

Here are a few favorites among local moms who say their lives are far easier to manage with the help of a little modern technology.

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Save Time with Easy Meal Hacks

If it feels as though your life is too busy, you’re not alone. Many families experience the feeling of constant busyness, but there are ways to save time around the house and lift some of those burdens.

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Sensational Seasonal August Foods

Whether you and your family are down in the dumps or leaping for joy, aim to celebrate the close of summer and the opening of new possibilities with these healthful, seasonal August foods.

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A Truly Memorable Summer Menu

(Family Features) Summer days are often spent with family and friends, soaking in the sun’s rays and enjoying outdoor living with warm weather activities. Complement...

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A Nostalgic Seasonal Treat

The kitchen is often known as the “heart of the home” and homes all over the country will smell and taste like fall festivities all season long with this recipe for Oatmeal Cream Cookie Sandwiches.

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In Pursuit of Phat Thai

    Pad Thai, Phad Thai, Phat Thai… however you spell it.. I LOVE it! However you cook it…. well, that depends! For several years, I have been in love with the Pad Thai served at Red Snapper on Ward Parkway. The Thai fried rice noodles are just t…

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Summer Potluck Recipe Contest

The first 10 readers who share their favorite Summer Potluck Recipes with us will receive a copy of “Spilt Milk” and their recipes will be considerd for publication in an upcoming issue of Kansas City Parent Magazine.

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Family Recipes

    I was fortunate to have two grandmas who were really terrific and loved me very much. They were also as different as night and day.     My mom’s mom was more traditional. She is one of my best friends… we share the same faith and she has b…

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Shape Up Summer Eating Habits

Tips on portion control, dealing with picky eaters and making fast food friendlier show parents how to help their kids make healthy eating choices. You will find several Great Recipes too!

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Smart Meal Ideas

Is it possible to feed a family of four for under $10? With the right recipes it is. Find out how to eat well for less with four family-friendly recipes.

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Simply Gourmet

If you’re looking for recipes that are impressive enough for entertaining and fit easily into a healthy and active lifestyle, try Chef Joanne Weir’s tasty new recipes and tips for gourmet meals with simple sophistication.

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Chevy’s Fresh Mex: Red Rice Recipe

Chevy’s Fresh Mex: Red Rice Recipe

Ingredients: 6 beefsteak or 8 plum tomatoes 1 tbsp. chopped cilantro 2 cups water 1 tsp. chopped garlic 2 tsp. Chipotle Purée 2 tsp. salt 1/3 cup canola oil 2 cups long-grain white rice ½ cup choppe…

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Discover Chile: Recipes You’ll Love

In restaurant kitchens nationwide – and at home – Latin American flavors continue to be a hot trend – and it’s not because of spiciness. The unique culture and geography of countries such as Chile offer exciting possibilities for everyday c…

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Cook Up Some Savings

Trying to stretch your grocery budget? Our newest bloggers, KC’s Penny Pinchin’ Mama and Sara the Savvy Shopper, have the inside scoop on saving in Kansas City. We also have great budget-friendly recipes!

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Sweet Traditions: Pumpkin Recipes

Pumpkin treats are perfect for holiday baking. The mellow, sweet flavor blends beautifully with spices, citrus and nuts. Pumpkin is a versatile and delicious addition to any holiday tradition.

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Holiday Recipes

The holidays are upon us, which means not only are you preparing those huge meals, but you also have an endless stream of other fun and festive get-togethers with hungry guests. To help you whip up those extra special dishes during the holi…

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Cooking with Kids!

Want to have a great conversation with your kids? Cook with them. They forget to be tight-lipped when they are licking the chocolate off the beaters. But don’t stop with dessert – here are some wonderful cookbook titles to start those c…

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‘Tis the Season for Holiday Baking

Cookie exchanges are a fun way to gather with friends and family during the holidays, but it’s always challenging to find a fun and unique recipe that won’t get lost on the cookie tray. While it’s important to stir up some of the classics, …

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Recipes for the Season

The holidays are upon us, which means not only are you preparing those huge meals, but you also have an endless stream of other fun and festive get-togethers with hungry guests. To help you whip up those extra special dishes during the holi…

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Family Fun With Gingerbread

Whether the classic gingerbread man or a fun new interpretation inspired by the introduction of a chocolate “drop,” these flavor-packed treats merit a place in tomorrow’s memories of this holiday season.

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Culinary Kids Create Sweet Success

Children are naturally curious when it comes to the ways of the kitchen, and parents are equally curious about how to include them in cooking and baking activities. Try these delicious recipes!

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One-Pot Recipes

With busy schedules it can be difficult to find the time (and energy) to put a meal together. Crockpots are a great resource; put the meal together early in the day and let a good homemade dinner welcome you in the evening.

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Favorite Fall Recipes

With the temperatures at night dipping into the low 40’s, and the shelves at the grocery store finally being stocked with delicious apple cider, fall has officially arrived here in Kansas City! There are so many things about fall that I love: the…

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Ready, Set, Cook!

Cooking opens up a whole world of learning for children. They learn about good nutrition, following directions, simple math and science, and a whole lot more. A new, kid-friendly cookbook makes cooking a fun adventure for the pre-school set…

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Time Savers

 Once November arrives, life gets pretty hectic. So in the interest of saving time, I’ve recently found two new recipes that are quick, easy and yummy. I thought I’d pass them along and if you happen to have any great recipes that are super sp…

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It’s Peppermint Season!

Headline your holiday with the quintessential flavor of the season — peppermint. These extra special sweets offer a bountiful buffet of peppermint possibilities. Choose one or more for cookie exchanges, après caroling nibbles, gifts for tea…

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Get Your Grill On!

Backyard chefs, get ready to fire up the grills and cook up some flavor. Whether you’re cooking just for the family or for all the neighbors, make sure you’ve got plenty of great recipes and grilling know-how.

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Make Your Own Cleaning Products

Making your own cleaning supplies can be a breath of fresh air on a suffocating budget. Not only can it save money, in many cases it can be safer than the chemicals some cleaning supplies contain. Many of the recipes here are made of ingred…

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Recycled Fun

As we come uncluttered, inspiration dawns, and to the delight of our ingenious children (who mistake the meticulously organized cleaning piles for islands of misfit toys), old things destined for the trash bin take on new life.

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Ginger Snaps

I love Ginger Snaps because of their delicious flavor and chewy goodness (they are soft and chewy, not crispy), but also because I have many fond memories baking them with my dear friend and mentor, Evelyn. I love favorite recipes among fri…

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Meal Planning for the Busy Mom

If meal planning has proven to be a pesky chore in your household, start fresh with a new approach. Put in some time and organization to take control of your family’s meals. Eliminating the stress around mealtime will allow you to connect …

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Making Snow Ice Cream!

Three Snow Ice Cream Recipes to try during Kansas City’s Snowpocalypse! This is a favorite winter memory for children and one they’re sure to enjoy.

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Berry-tastic Recipes

Summer is here! It makes most of us want to do a happy dance. Farmers’ markets, fresh fruits and vegetables, warmer temperatures-and getting the kids outside on a regular basis. There are so many easy, healthy, oven-free, fun recipes to mak…

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Fave Foodie Destinations in KC

Can you spend hours searching for the best recipes on the internet? Are you raising a future Emeril or Julia Child? If you are a foodie at heart, we’ve rounded up our favorite foodie destinations for decadent family fun right in the heartla…

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Sweets for Your Sweets!

Sweets and Valentine’s Day go hand in hand, and enjoying sweets with your kids is a great way to bond in the hustle and bustle of life. Try a few of these recipes with your little helpers by your side, or maybe whip up a batch to sneak into…

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