Get Your Weekly Top Events Here

KC Parent

MenuClose

2010-2011

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…

Read Article

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…

Read Article

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!

Read Article

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…

Read Article

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!

Read Article

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 …

Read Article

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…

Read Article

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…

Read Article

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…

Read Article

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!

Read Article

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…

Read Article

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 (…

Read Article

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 …

Read Article

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…

Read Article

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…

Read Article

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…

Read Article

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…

Read Article

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.  …

Read Article

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.

Read Article

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…

Read Article

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…

Read Article

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…

Read Article

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.

Read Article

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.

Read Article

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…

Read Article

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…

Read Article

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!

Read Article

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…

Read Article

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.

Read Article

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…

Read Article

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.

Read Article

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…

Read Article

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…

Read Article

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!

Read Article

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…

Read Article

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…

Read Article

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…

Read Article

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.

Read Article

Five Ways To Make Money From Home

Now that the holidays are being us, you might see your mailbox starting to fill up with bills.  Or, maybe, your new years resolution is to get out of debt.  Whatever your financial goal, you might be wanting to find a way to make some extra money…

Read Article

What to Do About Mother’s Day

Every Father’s Day, I get one of the best gifts in the world. I get a t-shirt decorated with the hand prints of each of my children. Although I know what I am going to get, I look forward to my new t-shirt every year and I wear each and every o…

Read Article

Breaking the Mother’s Day Code

I am still struggling with what to do for my wife for Mother’s Day (yes, I know time is getting short). As I wrote last week, I want to do something special for the mother of my children, it’s just that nothing really comes to mind. Every year,…

Read Article

The Best Mother’s Day Gift

The sitcoms tell us no woman wants an appliance for a present. Commercials tout the power of diamonds, expensive jewelry, fancy cars, and other big ticket items. But, this year, my family gave me the best Mother’s Day Gifts ever… and the gifts …

Read Article

Banana Bread Day!

“Mommy, it’s Banana Bread Day!,” Emily declares upon discovering three bananas that are starting to brown in our fruit bowl. That’s the tradition here: any bananas that don’t make it into a banana split or bowl of cereal are mashed and baked …

Read Article

Touring the Louisburg Cider Mill

I know it’s technically still summer, but fall is right around the corner and and I can’t wait. To start anticipating all the fun fall brings, this week, I took the girls on our annual trek to the Louisburg Cider Mill (14730 Hwy 68, 913.837.5202….

Read Article

Lucky Duck at the Coterie: Summer 2010

With their latest production, Lucky Duck, Coterie did what Coterie does best captivating audiences with a musical romp through a play that is, according to The Coterie, “American Idol meets The Ugly Duckling.” Read our review of the show!

Read Article

Kaleidoscope

Hallmark is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year. Over the past century, it has contributed so much to Kansas City. As a parent, one contribution that I consider to be a real treasure to our community is Kaleidoscope. It is located a…

Read Article

Three Days in Santa Cruz

Visitors to Santa Cruz on California’s Central Coast often shake their heads in wonder that anyone should be so fortunate to live in this college and beach town where the bumper stickers urge everyone to Keep Santa Cruz Weird, and the inde…

Read Article

Review: Snoopy! at Theatre for Young America.

Our family loves the Peanuts! Charlie Brown & the Gang have become a part of our holiday traditions with viewings of the classic cartoons. Snoopy is the highlight of a visit to Worlds of Fun and this year, it just got better with the addition of …

Read Article

Hot Tips for the Best Day at Crown Center

If you’re looking to spend a day of fun locally without spending much money, Crown Center is a great outing. However, it is often CROWDED and these crowds sometimes deter moms from making the trip. Over the years, we’ve learned the tips and trick…

Read Article

Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art

The Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art is located on the campus of Johnson County Community College and is a wonderful place to introduce your children (and maybe even you) to contemporary art. The Nerman is a manageable size that won’t tire…

Read Article

Annie at Theatre in the Park

Annie, the beloved musical about the “glass half full” red-headed orphan, opens at Shawnee Mission Theatre in the Park this week! KCParent.com interviewed cast members in anticipation of the show.

Read Article

Cinderella: Theatre in the Park 2010

On August 1st, KCParent.com will be celebrating Cinderella at Theatre in the Park with Princess Surprises all night long! In anticipation of the show, we interviewed members of the cast who help bring the magic to life!

Read Article

Snakes Alive at the Kansas City Zoo

Slither, slide, walk or run to the Kansas City Zoo to busta-myth about these glistening ornate patterned creatures. Did you know snakes don’t have eyelids or ears and their “noses” are also found on the roof of their mouths? Starting April …

Read Article

Dinosaurs Unearthed Behind the Scenes

Go Behind the Scenes of Dinosaurs Unearthed the LARGEST Dinosaur collection outside of China for Exclusive KCParent.com Videos, Photos, and Secrets! The exhibit opens at Kansas City’s Union Station ALL SUMMER starting May 1st!

Read Article

Summer Outings

My oldest child starts school in August (sniff, sniff).  Thinking about this makes me realize how intentional I want to be with my time with my young children.  (I’m trying to enjoy every moment, though I admit that the recent transition of m…

Read Article

Summer Love

You don’t have to look further than the temperature outside to know that summer is HERE!! The upper 90’s with even higher heat index is already leaving its mark on Kansas City. I’ve already heard some grumbles about the weather being “too ho…

Read Article

The Beanstalk Children’s Garden

Perhaps your children think food grows at the grocery store, or maybe they have budding green thumbs. Either way, they’re sure to have fun and learn something at the Children’s Beanstalk Garden.

Read Article

Enjoy Nature at the Library

This month marks the arrival of spring. As thoughts turn to the outdoors, take advantage of this opportune time to visit the library. Yes, you read that right. It’s the perfect time to visit the Mr. & Mrs. F.L. Schlagle Library. The library…

Read Article

Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House: St. Louis

As our family walked into the Butterfly House, my five year old daughter Emily exclaimed, “Mom, I just know this is what heaven looks like!” I can certainly see why she feels this way. The Tropical Conservatory is home to nearly 2,000 tropi…

Read Article

Festival of Butterflies at Powell Gardens 2010

Every year we make a point to visit the Festival of Butterflies at Powell Gardens. My girls love seeing the tropical butterflies, native Missouri butterflies, and hundreds upon hundreds of Monarchs! The event is great family fun.  
We went thi…

Read Article

Powell Gardens

A visit to the garden is not only fun, but educational as well. Last year, Powell Gardens introduced the Heartland Harvest Garden. Learn about all the great treasures awaiting your family at Powell Gardens!

Read Article

Seeing Stars… our trip to Powell Observatory

I love the city and I love city lights, but there is one major downside… city lights make it very difficult to see the stars at night. Louisburg is just far enough from all the bright lights of the city to facilitate a fantastic stargazing oppo…

Read Article

Missouri Town 1855 & The Little House Project

The Little House on the Prairie television series took us to the prairie town of Walnut Grove and Missouri Town 1855 is the closest thing to it in Kansas City! Journey with us on a family outing as we imagine what it would be to “live like…

Read Article

Lakeside Nature Center

April is the month of celebrating our earth. Learn more about your corner of the earth by visiting Lakeside Nature Center. The nature center is located near the Kansas City Zoo in Swope Park and is full of wildlife sure to fascinate both yo…

Read Article

Travel Back in Time: Shawnee Town 1929

If you’re ready to change up the summer routine of heading to the pool, consider a visit to Shawnee Town, 1929. The museum includes more than a dozen buildings and many authentic pieces, all of which bring history to life.

Read Article

NEW Planet Snoopy at Worlds of Fun

Last week we attended the opening of the new Planet Snoopy at Worlds of Fun. Formerly known as Camp Snoopy the new Planet Snoopy boasts 18 rides (7 new), a bounce house, a foam factory and lots of fun character visits.  The kids in our gro…

Read Article

The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art

The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art opened in 1933 and has been a place for people to learn about and appreciate art ever since. You’re never too young or old to enjoy the world of art, so read on to find out how to make the most of your family…

Read Article

Harry S. Truman Library and Museum

Did you know that on Nov. 1, 1950, assassins targeted President Harry S. Truman? The man from Independence survived unscathed and went on to keep his day’s appointments. The 33rd President of the United States—and Missouri native—was a fasc…

Read Article

Kansas City Zoo: African Sky Safari

The African Exhibit at the Kansas City Zoo has been ranked as the #1 African Zoo Exhibit in America and now visitors can enjoy a bird’s eye view of majestic animals in their beautiful habitats! Take the kids on an unforgettable adventure th…

Read Article

Three-Day-Tripping in Reno for the Family

Aptly named as the World’s Biggest Little City, Reno is a city with a robust, ambitious spirit and friendly small city feel. Nestled next to the Sierra Nevada to the west, Reno is an unexpected gem for families on summer vacation and has mo…

Read Article

Summer Staycation Ideas

Summertime means sun, fun and family vacations. However, if your budget won’t allow for you to get out of town this year, you can still have lots of family fun together.Here are a few staycation ideas:

Read Article

Boston – Family Style

Boston. The Hub. Beantown. No matter how you slice it, for a small city, this place has a whole lot to offer. More than an historic turning point in our nation’s history or a home to the beloved World Champion Boston Red Sox, this Massac…

Read Article

The Gateway Arch in St. Louis

A trip to St. Louis would be incomplete without visiting the St. Louis Arch. On our recent trip, we participated in two Gateway Arch Experiences: a ride on the Gateway Arch Riverboat and a ride to the top of the Arch. Both giving great view…

Read Article

On the fast track to fun in Indy!

Race into family fun in Indianapolis and help your children discover a whole new world. Whether it’s hopping into a real race car at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, touching sharks at the Indianapolis Zoo or banging away on drums at …

Read Article

St. Louis Family Fun

St. Louis, known as The Gateway to the Midwest and home of the Arch, Cardinals and Anheuser Busch, was recently named by AAA magazine Midwest Traveler as the best city for a weekend escape. In addition to all those titles, to me it was home…

Read Article

Family Fun at the Mile High

When you think of Colorado vacations, winter weekends spent swooshing on the powdery slopes of the Rockies may come to mind. But Colorado’s Mile High City is a playground of summer fun for kids of all ages.

Read Article

Welcome to Vermont

What comes to mind when you think about Vermont? Pristine Green Mountains, fresh air, maple syrup, Ben & Jerry’s ice cream, cows, farms, small communities, winter skiing and riding, the Long Trail, artisan food, cheese, wine and micro beer….

Read Article

Meramec Caverns

As natives to Missouri, the Cave State with over 6,000 surveyed caves, our family has come to enjoy many cave tours on our road trips and vacations. The kids enjoy the adventurous tales we hear on the tours, and my husband, a former spelunk…

Read Article

Discover Rochester, New York

Did you know that Rochester, known today as the Flower City and sometimes the Flour City, was once a boomtown that was nicknamed “The Young Lion of the West”? Many amazing events took place in Rochester and many famous figures in history ca…

Read Article

Family Fun in San Diego

Welcome to beautiful San Diego—one of America’s premier destinations for fun in the sun and surf! If you’ve decided to make this sparkling seaside city your next vacation spot, here are some things to consider:

Read Article

Destination Orlando: With Teenagers!

Orlando is the dream destination for many families. With the happiest place on earth, Walt Disney World, joined by the place to “ride the movies,” Universal Studios/Islands of Adventure, Orlando offers non-stop entertainment for families wi…

Read Article

Philadelphia Is One Big Please Touch Museum

The Please Touch Museum is the name of Philadelphia’s famous kids’ museum, which gives young visitors an actual bus to drive, a supermarket to navigate and a Mad Hatter tea party to attend among a day’s-worth of fun for the under-7 crowd.

Read Article

Vacation: Oklahoma City

From uncovering mysteries of the past (some as ancient as the Pharoahs) to exploring science in the 21st century, there is something in the Oklahoma City area to make every family member happy.

Read Article

Accessible San Antonio

Visitors to San Antonio can name their pleasure – theme parks, water parks, historic sites, hiking, rock climbing, Gulf Coast beaches, museums and much more are here for the picking.
The nation’s seventh largest city is popular with th…

Read Article

Family Fun in St. Joseph

Mention St Joseph, MO, and folks all around the world will think of Jesse James and the Pony Express. But there is much more to discover in this city, founded in 1843, and only an hour north of Kansas City. Fifteen museums and attractions h…

Read Article

Airplane Sanity Savers

Bags are packed and you are on your way. But first, you have a plane trip to survive. Try some of the following tips to make the trip a smooth one for you and your fellow passengers.

Read Article

Subscribe

ONLY $18 for 14 issues!

Because of the increasing requests for subscriptions to KC Parent and KC Going Places Magazine—and to make life easier for you, our readers, you can now get KC Parent delivered to your home each and every month! We are …

Read Article

Kansas City Christmas Lighting Ceremonies: 2010

From mid-November to mid-December, all across the Kansas City metro the “switches are flipped” and the City is decked out in holiday splendor! You’ll find everything from sleigh rides to hot cocoa, visits from Santa, Dickens Carolers, loca…

Read Article

Christmas Lighting Ceremonies in Kansas City: 2011

From mid-November to mid-December, all across the Kansas City metro the “switches are flipped” and the City is decked out in holiday splendor! You’ll find everything from sleigh rides to hot cocoa, visits from Santa, Dickens Carolers, loca…

Read Article

Guides

Family fun in Kansas City, places to go in KC, what to do in Kansas City, KC Coupons and Kansas City Giveaways. The official site for KC Parent Magazine, KC Baby Magazine, and KC Going Places Magazine. For over 25 years, KC Parent has been …

Read Article

10 Top Picks for September in Kansas City

Celebrate your Autumn favorites like apples, pumpkins, and Fall Festivals for the entire Family. Discover our Top 10 Picks for Family Fun in September as Kansas City welcomes Ciderfest, Nick Jr. LIVE, The Great Midwest Balloon Fest, and muc…

Read Article

10 Top Picks for September in Kansas City: 2011

Celebrate autumn with apples, pumpkins, the American Royal and Fall Festivals for the entire Family. Discover our Top 10 Picks for Family Fun in September as Kansas City welcomes Ciderfest, The Greatest Show on Earth, Sprint Family Fun Days…

Read Article

Thrillsville: Adventures in Kansas City

Discover adventures that are safe, fun and memorable right in our own backyard where you can soar to new heights, plunge to new depths and travel at incredible speeds as your family creates some wild and unforgettable memories!

Read Article

4th of July in Kansas City: 2010

Fireworks, Parades, Festivals, Picnics and Music… Kansas City families knows how to celebrate Independence Day! Follow this guide to discover wonderful 4th of July Traditions in Kansas City!

Read Article

4th of July in Kansas City: 2011

Fireworks, Parades, Festivals, Picnics and Music! Kansas City knows how to celebrate Independence Day! Follow this guide to discover wonderful Independence Day Traditions or revisit those that are familiar.

Read Article

10 Top Picks for June in Kansas City: 2011

June in Kansas City! School’s out and Summer is here! This summer, discover wild animals in the rainforest, meet dinosaurs, and make a splash creating great family memories. Don’t miss these 10 great places to go in KC this Summer!

Read Article

The Best Things About Summer

   Summer… my feelings about the season are bittersweet. Summer is my personal “least favorite” season simply because of the weather… give me snow ANY day (Yes, even the massive amounts we enjoyed last winter!). But, summer does have its re…

Read Article

Berry Picking in Kansas City

For city kids, the novelty of picking your own fruit right off the bush or vine is not only educational, but fun as well. For some reason, pancakes with blueberries YOU picked just taste better!
For a city mom, the novelty of sharing th…

Read Article

Memorial Day in Kansas City: 2011

Kick Off Summer in Kansas City with great ideas for Family Fun! Kansas City hosts many terrific family celebrations on Memorial Day Weekend… from Jiggle Jam at Crown Center to Celebration at the Station… Hot Air Balloons and more!

Read Article

Kansas City’s Spraygrounds

Kansas City is home to many wonderful spraygrounds! Spraygrounds are water playgrounds where children can run and play through sprinklers and sprays on a safe surface.

Read Article

Festivals & Fairs in Kansas City: July 2011

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! This i…

Read Article

Mother’s Day in Kansas City: 2011

Treat mom like a queen this Mother’s Day with our list of great ideas to celebrate mothers in Kansas City this May! From FREE admission at many of our favorite attractions on Mother’s Day to festive tea parties and celebrations, there are m…

Read Article

10 Top Picks for May in Kansas City

May in Kansas City… the end of the school year, Mother’s Day, Memorial Day, Baseball, and Bar-B-Q! So many wonderful family outings in KC and terrific places to go with kids in Kansas City! Don’t miss these 10 great places to go in Kansas…

Read Article

10 Top Picks for May in Kansas City: 2011

May in Kansas City… the end of the school year, Mother’s Day, Memorial Day, Beaches, and Bar-B-Q! So many wonderful family outings in KC and terrific places to go with kids in Kansas City! Don’t miss these 10 great places to go in Kansas …

Read Article

Kite Flying in Kansas City

Spring is Kite Flying season 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!

Read Article

Go Fly a Kite

I adore snow. I really do. I also adore season changes… I am a Midwest girl through and through… but this year… this year winter was a little long for my liking and I was quite happy to bid it adieu officially with my family. How do we do…

Read Article

Kite Flying 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!

Read Article

Let’s Go Fly a Kite!

One of our favorite Spring traditions is Kite Flying and over the years, we’ve learned a few things:Cheap Kites WORK like a charm!The cheap kites you buy at the Dollar Store, Walmart and Target… they FLY! The dollar kites have always been the…

Read Article

Earth Day in Kansas City: 2011

Celebrate Earth Day in Kansas City with Family Fun all month long! Families will enjoy learning more about “Going Green” at local shows, festivals, parties, classes and workshops. Participate in hands-on experiences at local nature centers …

Read Article

FREE Family Fun in March!

There are so many fun things to do in Kansas City, it can be overwhelming! But the best news is that many fabulous fun things to do are FREE! These are our top picks for FREE fun in March!

 

Marble Crazy at the Moon

The Facts: March 4 …

Read Article

10 Places to Go in Kansas City in March

March in Kansas City is the welcoming of Spring and that means many fun family outings in KC and terrific places to go with kids in Kansas City. We want to make sure you don’t miss these 10 great places to go in KC this Spring!

Read Article

Christmas in Kansas City: Top Picks 2010

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas! The options for Christmas Fun are truly limitless. It’s simply impossible to do it all. So, what are the best of the best for festive fun this holiday season? We have your Top Picks for “Can’t Mi…

Read Article

Santa in Kansas City: 2011

This year, Kansas City welcomes the Jolly Old Elf with trains, sleigh rides, carriage rides, pancakes, pajama parties and much more! This is your guide to Santa Sightings in Kansas City!

Read Article

The Messiest Outings in Kansas City

Whether playing in the dirt, digging for treasure, or creating concoctions for the family art gallery or lunch… messes are just a part of childhood. Consider a family-friendly make-a-mess outing where your children can exert some creative…

Read Article

Top Ten Toys of 1985

Kansas City Parent Magazine is celebrating 25 years. To mark the occasion we’re giving away a $25 Gift Card to Target every week to one lucky eNews subscriber! We’re also taking a look back at the world of parenting to see just how much…

Read Article

Give the Gift of Bookmarks

When Stuart and I were first married we lived in the very sleepy town of Emporia, Kansas. Which is ironic, because we didn’t do a lot of sleeping in Emporia.
 
I remember the first night in our first house. It was a sunshine yellow 1926 Dutch C…

Read Article

Kansas City’s Irish Restaurants

St. Patrick’s Day is just around the corner, so why not take the family out to a delicious meal of Fish ‘n Chips, Shepherd’s Pie, Corned Beef & Cabbage, or Irish Stew at one of Kansas City’s authentic Irish Restaurants?

Read Article

Kansas City’s BEST Sandwiches

Good old fashioned tuna sandwiches, gourmet paninis, authentic German brats, handmade Irish sandwiches, Greek gyros, and the classic burnt end sandwich served up with tangy KC Bar-B-Q sauce… whatever your sandwich preference, KC’s restaur…

Read Article

Summer Treasure Boxes

 I am raising collectors. It seems every time I turn around, what appears to be “junk” to me is a special treasure for my daughters. Seashells, acorns, feathers, rocks, pebbles, small toys and party favors, and more. My oldest daughter started…

Read Article

Tea Rooms in Kansas City

Little girls, and girls at heart LOVE tea parties! Kansas City’s tea rooms all offer unique experiences for tea party lovers. Each tea room has its own style presenting an unforgettable experience for ladies of all generations.

Read Article

Fall Fun at Kansas City’s Parks: 2011

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 roasting!

Read Article

The Crayon in the Dryer…

Well, it finally happened… a rogue crayon in a pocket made it through a load of wash and all the way through the dryer without my knowing. I think this is a rite of passage for mothers, because it’s just one of those things that seems to happen…

Read Article

A Kansas City Christmas Scavenger Hunt

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas! This holiday season, create family memories with an all day (or all weekend if you choose to split the attractions into two days) holiday scavenger hunt!

Read Article

Grandparent Names

What’s behind a grandparent’s title, and how does one decide on this noble name? Kansas City parents have a lot to say about this age-old subject.

Read Article

Our Favorite Autumn Day Trips

Apples, pumpkins, vibrant leaves, hayrides, fall festivals, homemade pies and pressed apple cider… everything wonderful and iconic about autumn is part of our favorite day trips!

Read Article

Pumpkin Treats in Kansas City

Kansas City’s favorite restaurants know the way to our hearts with the sweet flavor of pumpkin and a sprinkle of cinnamon and nutmeg as our Fall Favorites grace their menus once again!

Read Article

Best Caramel Apples in Kansas City

Juicy, gooey, sticky, sweet, classic… is there anything quite as decadent as a delicious caramel apple in the fall? It’s an autumn tradition as classic as watching “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown,” and we’ve rounded up the bes…

Read Article

Day Trip: Leavenworth, KS

Leavenworth is famous for its prisons and the military fort that bears its name, but this small river town offers much more for an unforgettable family day trip! You’ll discover a day of nostalgia and whimsy as you learn about the history o…

Read Article

Create Father’s Day Memories in Kansas City

Let Dad know just how much he’s loved with a day of family fun creating great memories doing something he enjoys with the people he loves most. Discover delicious dining, family adventures, loads of laughs, and more ideas to create an unfor…

Read Article

Day Trip: Historic Overland Park, KS

Have you ever wanted to learn more about cooking, crafting, sewing, scrapbooking, or the arts? If you are desiring “something new” mixed with the nostalgia of an All-American Main Street… Historic Downtown Overland Park is the place for y…

Read Article

Camping in a Caboose

This past weekend, our family took a weekend trip to Branson. We wanted to stay on Table Rock Lake and cook out, hike, and fish on Friday before visiting Silver Dollar City on Saturday. We LOVE Silver Dollar City and try to visit at least once a …

Read Article

BUILD A GREENER FUTURE

As parents, it’s up to us to pass on valuable life lessons to our children. One of these lessons should be to teach them to be green so that they will continue taking care of the earth as they grow up.

Read Article

10 Summer Fun Ideas for the Winter in Kansas City!

You can beat the winter blues with a bit of “summer fun.” If you long for swimming, baseball, ice cream, playing outside…. have no fear! The fun of summer can be here all winter long. All it takes is a touch of creativity and a sense of a…

Read Article

April Fool’s Day Ideas

KCParent.com Readers share their creative April Fool’s Day ideas. These are a few favorites that will have your family laughing! ¡ʎɐp s,looɟ lıɹdɐ ʎddɐɥ

Read Article

Cool Summer Nights in Kansas City

Treat the kids to some summer fun at NIGHT! Enjoy the cool(er) weather with some FREE and cheap summer fun at local theaters, parks, and attractions where many of our favorite family-friendly destinations are hosting special events at night…

Read Article

Fun After the Bell Rings

When the school day is over, how do your children spend those precious few hours before dinner, homework, chores and showers turn the evening into a big blur?
If you are home with your children after school, it’s a terrific opportunity to s…

Read Article

The Best Apps for New Parents

Even though your baby isn’t old enough to use a smart phone yet, there are plenty of great apps that can make your life as a new parent easier. Here are a few that are recommended by experienced KC parents!

Read Article

What NOT to Feed Your Baby

When your infant is beginning to sit independently, seems interested in foods and is putting things in his or her mouth, it is time to introduce solid foods! While this is an exciting milestone, many parents find themselves consumed with wo…

Read Article

Coping with Prenatal Depression

Prenatal depression was once thought impossible. Doctors assumed that all the hormones surging through a pregnant woman’s body eliminated the possibility of depression. Postpartum depression has long been acknowledged, but prenatal depressi…

Read Article

OMG! I think I’m Pregnant!

Whether you have been trying to get pregnant for years and finally succeeded or you just received the surprise of your life, obtaining prenatal care needs to be the top item on your to-do list. Early prenatal care allows you to discuss harm…

Read Article

Ear Infections…Why Do You Plague My Child?!

“Next to the common cold, ear infections are the most commonly diagnosed childhood illness in the United States,” reports the Nemours Foundation. So it is a good idea that parents become familiar with these symptoms and prepare for what to …

Read Article

Secrets of the Second Pregnancy

No two pregnancies are alike. If you were sick throughout your first pregnancy, this one might sail by with barely a hint of nausea. Couldn’t stand the sight of ice cream last time? You may eat it morning, noon and night with this one. Ther…

Read Article

Our Baby Story: Raising Awareness

In the late spring of 2010, I gave birth to my second daughter, Makayla. I had a normal healthy pregnancy and delivery, and my first daughter, Mackenzie, was a proud big sister! Shortly after delivery my husband and daughter wheeled Makayla to th…

Read Article

Pregnancy Fear Factors

Theme parks should have a ride called “The Next Nine Months” to exemplify the emotions a woman and her partner go through while expecting. A roller coaster is about the closest thing I can think of to demonstrate the drastic changes of emot…

Read Article

Sweet Celebrations

Although you have taken it upon yourself to throw the BEST BIRTHDAY PARTY YOUR CHILD HAS EVER HAD, just relax…it will be! And, if you use any of the following tips, it also could be one of the easiest!

Read Article

Good Grade Freebies

School is back in session, and students are working hard to get good grades. While a report card’s prime positioning on the front of the refrigerator is always exciting for your child, something in return for those good grades is really goo…

Read Article

Kansas City’s 10 BEST Places for Leaf Peeping

The season of pumpkins and apple cider calls forth the nature lover in everyone, drawing us to our favorite spots around Kansas City to see and celebrate this feel-good time of year. Discover the best places in KC for great views of autumn …

Read Article

Meet Shimika Kennison

You’ll certainly never run out of fun things to do in Kansas City, but it’s the people that make this city extra special. One such person is Shimika Kennison. This local mom is wife to former Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver, Eddie Kennison…

Read Article

Sports and Energy Drinks 4-1-1

All parents are overloaded by the Internet and the ever-accurate sources called moms groups. But media distracts from first-rate parental judgment. You rush through a pediatrician appointment for two earaches and strep throat, so there’s no…

Read Article

Raising the Other Child

How do families strike a balance, ensuring that siblings feel just as honored as their special need child, who requires more time and attention?

Read Article

Liar, Liar

The honest to goodness truth is children will lie to you at some point in their lives. As I was writing this story, I was interrupted by one of my children. As my 7-year-old daughter Zoe headed off to bed, it appeared she was chewing someth…

Read Article

Entertain Your Kids at Home for Free

Winter is that magical time of year when the holidays come and go, snow glistens on the ground, the fireplace crackles and we all get trapped in our houses because it’s too cold to go anywhere! And anyone who has been stuck inside with kids…

Read Article

Basic Cake Balls

Cake balls are bite-sized balls made of crumbled cake mixed with frosting and covered in candy coating. They are super-easy to make and form the basis of endless variations of decorated cake pops, cupcake pops, and cake bites.

Read Article

KidScape at the Johnson County Museum

Kansas City winter weather typically makes it uncomfortable to take a stroll down a city street. At the Johnson County Museum, you and your children can take a stroll any time of year at KidScape, a “kid-sized suburban streetscape.” Read on…

Read Article

Black History Month: 2011

February is Black History Month and Kansas City’s local libraries, museums, and sites, are honoring the legacy of African Americans with special events all month long.

Read Article

Chinese New Year Celebration in Kansas City

The tremendously popular Chinese New Year celebration at The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art is this weekend! Family-friendly activities on Friday night include performances by musicians and dancers along with gallery games, art demonstrations …

Read Article

Hard Hat Happy Hour at the Kansas City Museum

Explore Kansas City Museum’s exquisite 100+ year old mansion home, Corinthian Hall, at Kansas City Museum’s Hard Hat Happy Hour. You’ll see Corinthian Hall in mid-renovation, the bare interior of the building exposed for the first time in d…

Read Article

Groundhog Day at the Zoo: 2011

Randy Wisthoff, CEO/Executive Director of the Kansas City Zoo, reports Spike saw his shadow; six more weeks of winter. Randy Wisthoff, CEO/Executive Director of the Kansas City Zoo, reports Spike saw his shadow; six more weeks of winter.

Read Article

Snowed In Survival Guide: Kansas City

School’s canceled. Roads resemble an ice rink. With hyper kids climbing the walls, anxious parents eager for a bit of sunshine, and entire families trying to cope through another bout of cabin fever, we’ve compiled our Top Tips and Tricks f…

Read Article

Confessions of an Army Wife

It’s often said that the spouse has the toughest job in the military. Yet military spouses are often the subjects of unflattering stereotypes. You hear about the loneliness, overwhelmed young mothers, heartless gold diggers, helpless and de…

Read Article

Best Pancakes in Kansas City

Pancakes are an American breakfast tradition. No matter your pancake preference, Kansas City’s cooks are flipping the best and FASTEST flapjacks around! Discover the Biggest, Silliest, Healthiest, and Tastiest Pancakes in town!

Read Article

Surviving Motherhood

Danni Boatwright knows a thing or two about hard work. After all, the Tonganoxie native spent several weeks in the Guatemalan jungle in 2005, eating mostly rice (and the occasional insect) and enduring many physical and mental tests. Mix in…

Read Article

Overcoming Test-taking Anxiety

Tests are an inevitable part of school, and for many students, tests can create a frightening environment. Students might not be able to remember the answers or have a difficult time focusing on the test in front of them. Learn to take step…

Read Article

Museums… More Than You Ever Imagined!

Modern museums have come to realize that no one will discover the treasures behind their doors if they fail to be engaging, so today’s museums are interactive, imaginative, educational AND entertaining… but many are still missing out becaus…

Read Article

Valentine Multi-Piano Concert

“Musikopoly” is a live piano concert where more than 450 participants will perform in duet teams simultaneously on 18 grand pianos. The concert will be performed at 2pm and 4pm at the Lied Center in Lawrence on February 13.

Read Article

Preparing Your Child Emotionally for College

The time has come for your child to go off to college.Is your child prepared emotionally for beginning a new life away from her family, making decisions on her own and dealing with the new pressures that college brings? Are YOU prepared for…

Read Article

World Aquarium: St. Louis

The World Aquarium, housed on the second floor of the City Museum, is an aquarium unlike any other… this is a “touch and feel” aquarium with many unique features.

Read Article

The Magic House Children’s Museum: St Louis

The Magic House Children’s Museum in St. Louis lives up to its name as one of the best children’s museums in the country. Their mission, to provide children with hands-on learning experiences that encourage experimentation, creativity and t…

Read Article

Five Favorites Indoor Fun in Kansas City

When it is too cool, windy, or rainy for the great outdoors, the fun doesn’t have to stop! Kansas City offers many terrific indoor outings for families to enjoy together. These are our Top Picks for Indoor Fun in KC!

Read Article

Geocaching: High-Tech Hide & Seek

Looking for new and exciting ways to spend family time? How about a high-tech treasure hunt around town? It’s called geocaching (pronounced jee-oh-cashing), and it’s the fun new way families are getting out of the house to spend time togeth…

Read Article

Trading Screen Time for Green Time

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends children get no more than two hours of screen time per day. The NWF cites studies that show kids spend an average of four minutes per day outside. But it’s not always easy to keep kids away from…

Read Article

Autism Spectrum Disorders

Mary Anne Hammond, a Kansas City Education Coordinator for Autism and Related Disorders says, “Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD’s) are complex, biological, developmental disabilities that affect social interaction, behavior and communication….

Read Article

Itsy Bitsy Spider Who Changed the World

The Martin City Melodrama has been entertaining Kansas City families since 1985 with their zany brand of comedy inspired by yesteryear’s classic Vaudeville. This spring’s production for young children, “An Itsy Bitsy Spider Who Changed the …

Read Article

Six Ways to Display Kids’ Art

While we all love to encourage our little artists to create, the amount of artwork in the house can become overwhelming! What can parents do with all of those beautiful creations? Here are some unique ways to display your child’s art withou…

Read Article

Watch it Made in Kansas City

Have you ever wondered what the secret is to making a violin sing? Do you want to know how robotics are used to manufacture motorcycles? The answers to these secrets and more are revealed on tours of Kansas City’s original companies. Come a…

Read Article

FREE Summer Concerts in Kansas City: 2011

What could be more fun than a night outdoors enjoying your favorite music… for FREE? All across the Metro, local bands and national bands are performing LIVE at our local parks and venues. All you need are lawn chairs, blankets, and picni…

Read Article

Dinosaurs in Kansas City: Summer 2011

This summer, embark on a Jurassic Journey your children will love! From Dinosaur Dining, to amazing Larger than Life Dinosaurs in the Garden, to parks and playgrounds with Dinosaurs, and Dino Rock ‘n Roll… we have it all!

Read Article

Ice Cream Whoopie Pies

These pies are a classic chocolate whoopie, just a little bit chillier, and perfect for a barbecue party on a summer’s day. You’ll need to assemble them at the last minute so that the ice cream doesn’t melt. I’ve used vanilla here but you c…

Read Article

OP Boy on a Mission to Help Kids

Over the past five years, Jack Novorr has raised around $21,000 for Children’s Mercy. Now an 11-year-old, Jack brainstorms with his parents and siblings to come up with ideas for his fundraisers. Learn how you can help!

Read Article

Top Spots to Cool Off in Kansas City

As much as we love to have fun in the sun, Kansas City summers can get HOT! Sometimes you just need a chance to cool off and relax. These are our top picks for “hot spots to cool off” in Kansas City!

Read Article

Celebrate Dairy Month in Kansas City: June 2011

June is National Dairy Month… Kansas City kids can learn about dairy cows, farming, milk, cheese making, eggs and delicious dairy products at these local attractions and events, including Shatto Dairy’s FREE Family Days on June 18!

Read Article

Summer Fun in Lawrence!

One of the best things about summer is the pleasure of fresh fruit and vegetables and it’s even better to enjoy these delicious and healthy treats after creating some fun family memories to collect them! Head to Lawrence for strawberry pick…

Read Article

Summer Fun in Atchison!

Atchison, Kansas, situated on the bluffs of the Missouri River, defies the stereotype of Kansas Prairie Land with its rolling hills and beautiful trees. The town is part of the Glaciated region of the state and it feels quite similar to its…

Read Article

Summer Fun in Weston!

Enjoy one of our favorite local Day Trips with a journey to Weston… an architectural time traveling experience. Your family can enjoy a fun summer day trip of berry or peach picking, biking on scenic trails overlooking the Mighty Mo, sho…

Read Article

Summer Fun in Parkville!

Just about 30 minutes north of Downtown Kansas City, sitting on the bluffs of the Mighty Mo, rests Parkville… a quaint town with a charming historic Main Street, wooded nature sanctuary and riverfront park.

Read Article

Celebrate The Wizard of Oz in Kansas City

This week, enjoy “The Wizard of Oz” on the Big Screen for FREE! Catch the Coterie’s production of “The Wiz,” and follow the yellow brick road to an unforgettable family trip to the Oz Museum in Wamego.

Read Article

Day Trip: Liberty, MO

For local history buffs, Liberty is well worth a visit. And, your trip will be peppered with fun pit stops with a day on the Square shopping and dining at unique locally owned businesses.

Read Article

Winter in the Summer in Kansas City!

Beat the heat with a bit of “winter fun!” If you long for ice skating, Christmas, and cuddling up with a movie…. have no fear… the fun of winter can be here all summer long. All it takes is a touch of creativity and a sense of adventure…

Read Article

Autumn in KC from A-Z: 2011

Discover the best the city has to offer for fall favorites you’ll never forget…. from the migration of the majestic monarch to the beginning of apple season, to caramel apples and deep fried twinkies at a local festival… autumn is just …

Read Article

Day Trip: Historic Downtown Lee’s Summit, MO

In 2010, Downtown Lee’s Summit was recognized by the National Trust Main Street Center as one of five Main Street communities whose “passion, innovation, and inspiring success serve as a model for comprehensive commercial district revit…

Read Article

Foster Care in Kansas City

Foster families come in all varieties, including single parent, blended families and mixed race. The most important factor is being willing to give children—even the more challenging ones—a second chance.

Read Article

Operation Christmas Child

Since 1993, Operation Christmas Child has hand-delivered more than 86 million shoe box gifts to needy children around the world. Learn how your family can help!

Read Article

Pirate Adventures in Kansas City

Sailing on the Seven Seas, fighting sea monsters, buried treasure… the adventure, the mystery, the loot! Children love tales of Pirate adventures. Take your Buccaneers on an adventure in Kansas City. Discover great ideas your child will tre…

Read Article

Ice Skating in Kansas City

Ice Skating…… winter’s favorite family sport! This year, celebrate the season with your kids with a spin on the ice at one of Kansas City’s local ice skating rinks, both indoor and outdoor.

Read Article

Are American Girls Reaching Puberty Earlier?

Puberty…ah, every parent’s favorite memory—and a time each can’t wait to get over with their children. It’s a challenging, hormonal, crazed time which is hard to decipher, harder still to predict—perhaps hardest yet when it finally hits you…

Read Article

Dealing with First Day Jitters (for Mom!)

The first day of school can be a nerve-racking event, looming heavier as the big day approaches—not just for kids, but for us parent folk, too. Here are a few tips to distract yourself and help squash your first day jitters.

Read Article

Tasty Treats at Trader Joe’s

With its combination of healthy food, great prices, fabulous customer service and fun, Traders Joe’s is sure to be a favorite grocery stop for Kansas City foodies and families alike.

Read Article

Kansas City’s Historic Garment District

Fashion Week is coming as the top fashion designers from around the world display their latest collections. If you love clothes, but a trip to the Big Apple isn’t in the budget, you can still relish a bit of fashion fun in KC. Celebrate FNO…

Read Article

The Martial Arts Advantage

Studying martial arts is not just learning to kick and punch. Rather, studying martial arts teaches students discipline, self-control, focus, and develops physical and mental abilities.

Read Article

Get Outside! Ideas for 5 Weekends of Outdoor Fun

You’ve cracked the windows to tempt in the autumn breeze, but instead, the crisp air is tempting you out. For the five weekends of October, KC Parent is challenging your family with five outdoor assignments. Pick one each week for piles of …

Read Article

20 Ways to Recharge

How can we find a moment of retreat in our busy schedules? With the holidays coming soon take time to recharge before the holidays overtake you, check to this list of 20 ways for moms and dads to feel refreshed in 20 minutes.

Read Article

A Gratitude Attitude

Research shows that an attitude of gratitude is healthy. It builds resilience in times of stress and grief. Dr. Robert Emmons, psychology professor at the University of California, Davis, has performed extensive research over the years, and…

Read Article

Black Friday Shopping Tips

Black Friday! You either love it or you dread it. Either way, there are amazing deals to be had and easy ways to navigate all the mayhem to save an incredible amount of money.

Read Article

I Am So Thankful

“Get your hands on the cart,” Sandi ordered James and Ian as they left Wal-Mart. We recognized all the dangers in a parking lot and Sandi watched the boys like a hawk whenever they walked to and from the car. She made them hold the cart that she …

Read Article

Why Do Kids Start Smoking?

“Each day approximately 1,110 kids become regular, daily smokers and between one third and one half will eventually die as a result of their addiction,” according to the American Lung Association. Lovely topic, I know!

Read Article

Fresh Beat Band coming to KC!

The Fresh Beat Band will appear Live in Concert at The Midland by AMC on February 24 and tickets are on sale NOW! We have the full scoop on this kid-favorite band!

Read Article

Momnesia: Your Brain on Kids

“Excuse me, your purse and coffee mug are on your roof,” another driver told my mom. Sure enough, my mother had driven several blocks (downhill, in the rain) with her open purse and a full mug of tea on the roof of the car before this man c…

Read Article

Kansas City’s Incredible Kids

We, at KCParent.com, want to celebrate Kansas City’s Incredible Kids! Meet great kids who are making a difference in our community using their creativity and talents to help others.

Read Article

Stranger Danger?

The idea of losing a child and not knowing what happened to him is every parent’s worst nightmare. Although abduction by strangers is statistically rare, the media sensationalism of such events makes the ordeal seem all the more likely. Fol…

Read Article

Giving It a Name: Why Labels Are Important

Do acronyms like PDD-NOS (Pervasive Developmental Disorder, Not Otherwise Specified) or ADHD (Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) really tell us anything about what’s going on inside the child? Learn the value of labeling special need…

Read Article

Teens & Caffeine: How Much is Too Much?

What? A morning without our cup of Joe? It’s a scary thought for many of us coffee-addicted parents. Even scarier, though, is the fact that our teens are now waking up to the caffeine habit. From sodas and energy drinks to coffee shops popp…

Read Article

Great Families, Bad Habits

Do you ever take a step back and realize that your family has fallen into a bad habit? You are not alone! Sometimes even the best of families develop bad habits without even realizing that it is happening. Here are a few common bad family h…

Read Article

Building Your Child’s Self-Confidence

Do you have a child who’s naturally shy or extremely apprehensive about taking on new activities, new surroundings or speaking up when wronged? You’re not alone. A lot of parents wonder how they can help their children so that they can bett…

Read Article

Happiness is Just a Baby Step Away

“As the flight attendant tells us on an airplane, place your oxygen mask on yourself first before assisting an elderly person or child. Care for mom is necessary first before she is healthily equipped to focus on being the best mom possible…

Read Article

Breaking Down the Barriers of Autism

Autism is an umbrella term encompassing a number of neurological disorders characterized by deficits in language, developmental and social skills. Learn more about autism and how to help your child.

Read Article

I Dressed Myself Today!

We’ve all seen the little girl at the grocery store, wearing a tutu, cowboy boots and fairy wings. At first glance, one might think, “Who let the child out of the house like that?” Most mothers know to pick their battles, and sometimes that…

Read Article

Too Sick for Daycare?

Is your child too sick for Day Care? Most facilities have a set of written rules for when to keep children home. Individual guidelines vary, but the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends keeping kids home if they have any of the followi…

Read Article

Password Police

More and more of our children are signing up for their own accounts, typing and receiving e-mails and text messages, “friending” people on Facebook and leaving us with a very important question. Should parents have access to their children’…

Read Article

Luck of the Irish

Every year in March, families celebrate the annual Irish tradition of St. Patrick’s Day with a variety of celebrations. Whether it’s attending a parade or preparing and enjoying an elaborate Irish meal, everyone has their own favorite ways …

Read Article

Prickly Cute, Utterly Adorable

A male and a female Prehensile-tailed Porcupine have created quite a stir in their new exhibit at the Tropics at the Kansas City Zoo. Visit the Kansas City Zoo to meet this delightful couple!

Read Article

Yes, you CAN fit in exercise!

How are you also supposed to be physically active for at least 30 minutes, five times a week (or based on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines, 150 minutes a week)? What is a busy parent supposed to do?

Read Article

Afraid of the Dark

”Trick or treat!” I chorused with my friends. I loved Halloween then as now, but I had a secret. The dark terrified me. I was powerless to overcome this character flaw and it grew as I did. One night around age 15, I awoke for no particular…

Read Article

7 Fun Ways to Bond with Your Child

Did you know that spending time with your baby develops appropriate relationships, empathy and self-esteem? “[One-on-one time] makes the kid feel cherished, loved, acknowledged and understood,” explains Dr. Celeste Frank, a psychologist wit…

Read Article

Thankful Thoughts from A-Z

As we head into the holidays, let’s take a moment to gather some thankful thoughts. Discover one idea for every letter of the alphabet, then count your blessings with your family.

Read Article

Frugal Family Gifts

Love the holidays but hate the thought of spending hours scouring stores for the perfect gift for each person on your list? Or perhaps you love shopping for others but have a meager budget that won’t stretch as far as you’d like.

Read Article

Contact Us

Since 1985, Family Media Group has been serving families in Kansas City through a host of products. Printing 1,000,000 magazines each year and distributing those in over 1,000 locations throughout the metro, our family of magazines include KC Par…

Read Article

LOL I’m Learning to Text

 For Christmas I asked for a new cell phone, to update my 1990’s version flip phone that I’ve had for several years. My main reason for wanting to upgrade was to be able to text. Now, I didn’t want to (and still don’t want to) be someone who i…

Read Article

Scrapbook in a Jar

A huge source of mommy guilt for me = the bazillions of photos on my computer that have yet to make it into any sort of photo album, box or frame. I was on vacation last week and on the top of my list was ordering a photo book. Should be quick an…

Read Article

Returning Gifts with Success!

     While Christmas has officially come and gone, the aftermath of it all seems to be here to stay. Our family has been running solid for the last several days with holiday hoopla, and it’s time to figure out what to do with all the “stuff” that…

Read Article

Slinkies, Crayons, and New Bikes

Ahhh… Christmas is coming to a close (as I write this post) and I’m looking at the pile of gifts to put away, realizing something mothers have known for generations – you simply can’t beat the classics!
  This year’s gift highlights were a new …

Read Article

Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas

 Ready or not…it’s here! Are you ready? Luckily, I think (fingers crossed) I’ve got everything ready for Christmas. Our celebrations begin Christmas Eve and run through New Year’s Day. It’s a whirlwind of family, fun, food and festivities! I…

Read Article

Love Letters

I am guessing tonight might be the “tipping point.” The exact moment is to be determined, but I can feel it coming. With the swarms of people out and about, school wrapping up for winter break and winter weather threatening, I can feel the accumu…

Read Article

To-Enjoy Rather Than To-Do

With Christmas being just right around the corner (literally) our minds are consumed with Christmas dinners to make, gifts that still need to be wrapped (and possibly bought), cleaning up the house so it’s ready for guests, and remembering to cha…

Read Article

The Elf on the Shelf

Maybe it’s just my kids’ schools, but the Elf on the Shelf is ALL the rage right now in the Pre-K through 1st grade circles.  It seems that everyone has a little elf visiting them this Christmas!  I have mixed feelings about the little guy.  We g…

Read Article

Get Crafty About The Birth of Jesus!

     As we lit our 3rd candle in our advent wreath this past Sunday, the reality that Christmas is right around the corner could not be more evident. The extra traffic on the roads, long lines in stores, and presents under the tree (or at least i…

Read Article

Knowing When to Say When

I have just realized that pretty much the core of every struggle in my life is knowing when to say when.  How many pieces of chocolate is too many?  How many little touches to my kid’s birthday party should I toil over?  Should I check just one m…

Read Article

Sarvers vs. Sarver’s and Other Pet Peeves

 As a former teacher and current editor, I spend a lot of time with words. I can’t read through something without checking it for errors and am often correcting both Tori and Ally’s grammar. I am often heard asking, “Are you a turkey? If the a…

Read Article

Kids Day Out Cards

A girlfriend and I were at the gym a few months ago, walking the track when she told me she watches Biggest Loser (and admitted she has no problem enjoying an episode while on the couch with a bowl of popcorn). I confessed to watching Hoarders, b…

Read Article

Christmas is Coming!

 Well, it’s December. And as we enter the last month of the 2011, we prepare and get ready for Christmas. Every since I had Tori 10 years ago, my mom has come up for a week during December to watch the girls while I knock out my shopping and C…

Read Article

Christmas Spirit

”Is that all?” I asked as I sat beside a pile of gifts, the floor strewn with torn wrapping paper. I knew it sounded selfish and ungrateful, but I didn’t mean it that way. What I meant to say, but couldn’t articulate, was, “Is there anything else…

Read Article

What’s all the Interest with Pinterest?

Last summer, I noticed a steady stream of friends taking the Pinterest plunge, leaving status updates such as “I see what all the buzz is about. Pinterest is amazing!” and “Where did the day go? Oh, yes… I was on Pinterest.”

Read Article

Knock on Wood

From fireplace wood to doors and splinters, read here for tips on keeping your kids safe and healthy this month.

Read Article

When You Disagree with Your Child’s Teacher

At some point during their school years, a disagreement will arise between teacher and student. At what point do you, the parent, need to step in? What happens when a situation arises in which you don’t see eye to eye with your child’s teac…

Read Article

Knotting for Charity

On Sunday there was another front page story in The Kansas City Star about hungry children in the area. A little girl my Natalie’s age – only 6 – drew a colorful picture illustrating how her “back snack” (food that comes home from school) makes h…

Read Article

Surviving Separation Anxiety and Stranger Danger

     My son has always had a big smile from ear to ear plastered on his face. He’s been the happy, smiley kid who would go easily to everyone who wanted to hold him….until these last couple of months. Recently he has changed his tune in a BIG w…

Read Article

Snowman Breakfast

I love to make creative and fun meals for my family, but sometimes it’s nice to have a quick go-to when we’re craving creativity and fun, but time/energy/wellness aren’t up for Martha Stewart’s standards…. This weekend, we enjoyed a couple simp…

Read Article

Cyber Monday: My Top 3 Shopping Tips!

Black Friday has come and gone and Cyber Monday is upon us!  I much prefer this shopping  holiday, as I love shopping online!  There are sure to be deals a’plenty tomorrow, but it may seem overwhelming or confusing if you aren’t a seasoned Cyber …

Read Article

Flower Box

My grandma and I have always been great friends. In fact, I chose my grandma as my first post-college roommate. It’s true…as a new graduate I loaded up my little red Ford Escort with all of my wordly belongings and moved to….my grandma’s hous…

Read Article

Kids Helping Kids

     Step out your front door, and there’s no doubt that the holiday season is upon us. It seems that every person in America is out shopping. Traffic seems to have increased no matter what time of the day it is, people seem a bit more rushed and…

Read Article

Mom’s Sick Day

This past week I’ve been battling a virus that just won’t seem to go away (I know of others with the same affliction and it just seems to linger and linger). Waking in the night with coughing attacks in between waking to feed a newborn, I find th…

Read Article

Black Friday has Become a Week of Crazy Deals!

I have never been a Black Friday shopper (growing up an hour from the nearest mall or Target makes it hard to get out to shop first thing in the morning the day after Thanksgiving).  But I seem to remember that in years past Black Friday was just…

Read Article

Don’t be Fancy, Just Get Dancy

 I’ve decided my life should have a soundtrack and that I need a theme song. In the Sarver home we love music and listen to all different types. A good song can turn your day around and put you back in the right frame of mind. There are lots o…

Read Article

Owl Treat Bags

Besides my family, I don’t think there is anyone I feel more grateful for than my children’s teachers. Over the years, we’ve been so fortunate to have fantastic teachers for our girls, who have helped make them better people. In turn, I’ve become…

Read Article

Stepping Back to Step Out

     Being a stay-at-home Mom (SAHM) is what I’ve always wanted to do with my life. Of course I have other goals unrelated to children, but there is something special and sacred about having children and spending your days with them. Even when I …

Read Article

Our Family KC Christmas Top Ten

Back in the summer we made a family “Summer Fun List” with our list of everything we wanted to do during the summer season.  I’m proud to say that we fit almost everything on our list into our 2 months of summer fun.  But I was thinking that we s…

Read Article

Answering “Those” Questions

 So here’s my not-so-great mom moment of the week. The girls have just come home from school and we are all at the kitchen table having snack when Tori asks, “So let’s say you don’t want to have kids. How do you make it happen so that you don’…

Read Article

Where Do You Live?

     After having just moved to a new house a few months ago, I’m finally feeling settled into our new place. With 2 little ones, sometimes things just take longer (you know how that can go). My daughter is approaching 3 1/2 in just a couple mont…

Read Article

Jumping in Leaves

I tackled one of the dreaded Brookside homeowner chores this afternoon:  raking.  The leaves are never ending here and our first round needed to be raked up.  As I raked my almost 5-year-old daughter was squealing with delight as she jumped in th…

Read Article

The Joy of Halloween

The pumpkins were carved, the Halloween lights were strung, candy was sitting in the bowl, and my kids were in their costumes. Everything was ready for a night of trick-or-treating. As the sun began to set and it started to get dark, my childre…

Read Article

As Seen on TV

 My younger, Ally, loves TV. I, of course, limit what and how much she watches, but I do let the girls watch Saturday morning cartoons. One morning I came into the family room as the girls were watching their cartoons and noticed Ally had a pi…

Read Article

The Privilege of Being A Mom

     All my life I can remember having a consistent dream: to one day be a Mom. Sometimes I have to do a double-take when I look in the back seat and see two faces looking at me – two children God has entrusted to me and given me the joy and priv…

Read Article

Books for Foster Parents and Foster Children

More than 748,000 children and families are affected by foster care each year. Consider these titles and the implications for families welcoming a hurt or neglected child into their midst. For more information, visit the National Foster Car…

Read Article

Equal, but not the Same

“Mom, she got more than I did.” “I want to be sure to get the kids the same number of gifts (or spend the same $ amount).” “I try to love my kids equally, but it’s hard.” These are a few of the comments I’ve heard or read recently that got me thi…

Read Article

Life Lessons from Sesame Street

 I don’t watch Sesame Street very often. My girls are no longer of the age that enjoys the show and well, it’s not really one I sit and watch by myself. But, I have many nieces and nephews who are the Sesame age and recently my sister in law, …

Read Article

Choosing to Let a Plan Fail

  Iâ’m sure youâ’ve heard it said, â”If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.â”  Well, I didnâ’t plan well when it came to writing this post.  My last-minute solution was to head somewhere with wireless internet.  I could then work on a post while ke…

Read Article

Let Them Be Kids!

     The other day, after I put my one-year-old down for his nap, I wanted to seize the moment with my 3-year-old and work on some skills. It’s no secret that more than one child in the family divides your time, and there has been some “mommy gui…

Read Article

Me vs The Squirrels

Beautiful Brookside…it’s a wonderful place to live, but this time of year it is full of evil little furry thieves.  Those squirrels may look cute with their fluffy tails and tiny little hands, but they are nothing but common pumpkin-stealing cr…

Read Article

Baby Lucy is Here!

I can’t believe it’s been seven days since Lucy was welcomed into our family! On October 18th, Lucy Abigail Light was born into a family where she is MUCH loved and adored.
  In the past seven days we’ve been praising God for… My doctor! She w…

Read Article

The Missing Shin Guard

Okay, I am going to be honest with you. As much as I hate to admit it, my kids are slobs. They really are. My wife and I have tried for years to get them to keep their room clean and nice, but it just doesn’t work. We harp on them, we give them …

Read Article

Fancy Fingers

 I love jewelry. And, unfortunately, my preference is for the real deal. I wish I could love the darling pieces from some place like Charming Charlie’s, but when it comes to my jewels, I’m wild about diamonds, rubies, emeralds and so on. So I …

Read Article

They’re All My Favorites

  I believe one of the best ways to show my children I love them is to treat them differently.  For example, no matter how my daughters plead with me, I will never tell them a story about Mike the Monkey.   Mike the Monkey is a fictional ch…

Read Article

Breathe

     Sunday nights usually consist of my husband and two children heading to my parent’s house for dinner…along with my brothers, sister-in-law, 1 year old nephew, my six cousins, one fiancee’, aunt, and anyone else who might be hungry for dinn…

Read Article

5 of My Favorite Apps for KC Moms

Smartphones and Tablets – the tools of the modern mom! If you’re like me, you’ve likely discovered that apps fall into one of the following categories:
Great tools you use all the time! Apps that “sounded like a good idea” but they a) don’t work…

Read Article

Playing Referee

     When we were pregnant with our second child, our daughter Ava couldn’t wait to meet him. She is often times found around our house lovingly pushing her stroller around with her baby, Georgia. Georgia always has a bottle and a blanket, and Av…

Read Article

You Get What you Pay For

You all know that I love a bargain as much as the next shopper, but there are some items where I just refuse to buy the “cheap” brand.  In general I think that store brands are great and that if I have a coupon for a brand I don’t usually use tha…

Read Article

Saying No to “Good Stuff”

Raise your hand if you’ve found yourself, as a parent, overwhelmed by the myriad of “good things” available for your child? Specifically, I’m referring to extra-curricular activities including, but not limited to: Sports, Music, Art, Drama, Acade…

Read Article

I’m Not Cool

 I’ve always suspected, but recently got confirmation that my ‘cool factor’ is pretty low. I made this discovery the other day at my daughters’ school. Tori (my older) was walking out of church with her class and I said “hi”. I didn’t get much…

Read Article

Goodwill Hunting (Or, My New Favorite Store)

  I recently asked another mom where she found her daughter’s cute clothes.  She laughed and replied that she finds most of them at Goodwill.  I should have known!   Have you shopped there lately?   I became a Goodwill fan when I starte…

Read Article

Art Activities for Fall

     I love the changing seasons, as it brings much to talk about, touch, smell, and discover with little ones. Fall is a beautiful time of year with the leaves changing color, mums popping up with bright color all over, pumpkins, gords and scare…

Read Article

My Favorite Halloween Decoration

Fall is one of my favorite seasons for many reasons, one of which is how fun it is to decorate with fall goodies.  I love buying pumpkins, gourds and mums to spruce up our house and bring in such beautiful colors. Most of my fall decorations can …

Read Article

Fall Fun Bucket List

This year, our family decided to make a “bucket list” of fall fun… things we wanted to be sure to do to enjoy the season! You can find many cute ideas for bucket lists on mom blogs, but I decided to go simple and I purchased a kit to make 36 fo…

Read Article

The Waiting Game—You Can Win

Waiting in line is a part of life. The average person spends five years of a lifetime waiting in line. Throw a child into the equation, and waiting can be challenging and stressful. So what’s a parent to do? An experienced parent will tell …

Read Article

Still a Child

 I am 41 and last time I checked, I was considered an adult. But it seems that as if in my mom’s eyes, I am still, and will always be, a child. We recently traveled to St. Louis for a baptism. The lunch after the baptism was at my parents’ hom…

Read Article

Extreme Couponing: A Love/Hate Relationship

Last night, TLC began another new season of Extreme Couponing.  I have come to have a love/hate relationship with this show.  I hate this show because it is a skewed sense of reality.  These stores bent policies, allowed multiple coupons to be u…

Read Article

If You Give a Mom a Computer

  Do you ever say youâ’re going to get on the computer â”to just check my email?â”  If so, are you like me and that quick check suddenly turns into much more?   I donâ’t know about you, but lately Iâ’ve found that when I sit down to do something…

Read Article

Raising A Reader From Birth

     Every parent has heard the exhortation to read to their child. Our house is full of books and we incorporate book reading all throughout our day: while we’re eating, before naps and bedtime, upon waking from naps and bedtime, story times at …

Read Article

Where Do I Find Deals?

A lot of people ask me how I find all of the deals that I post on my blog.  I used to spend more time searching than I do now, but my deal sources fall into a few categories: -Emails from Companies:  I sign up for “special deals and promotions f…

Read Article

Baby Fever

 I’ve got baby fever. My sister had her first August 19 and my sister-in-law had her fourth on August 31, both boys. And they are SO cute! I was able to go to St. Louis after my sister’s baby was born and spent the entire weekend holding and s…

Read Article

“Motherese”: The Universal Language

     Babies bring people together. As a mom of a 1 and 3 year old, I rarely go into a store without someone smiling at, talking to, or commenting on my children. “They’re so cute; how old are they?” and to my 1 year old, “What a big smile you hav…

Read Article

Putting the “Good” in Goodie Bags

Are your kids like mine?  They LOVE goodie bags at birthday parties.  No matter what is in the bag, they are so excited to get a little trinket or token to bring home from another kids’ birthday party or an event.  And as a mom I get really excit…

Read Article

Updating Your Child’s Wardrobe – On a Budget

If you are like me, you blink and your child has outgrown that new pair of shoes or jeans you purchased for them just a month back.  It can get really expensive to outfit your child with clothes — wether they wear a uniform or not to school.  No…

Read Article

What Siblings Can Teach Each Other

“You do it like this, Buddy,” I overheard a tiny voice say. When I looked over, I found Lorelei, then 3, fully engaged in helping Gryffin, 1, maneuver shapes into a shape sorter, guiding his small fingers with her barely bigger hand. I hadn…

Read Article

The ABC’s of Pregnancy

Thought ABC’s were just for the young ones of the family? Think again. Our alphabet guide to pregnancy is proof that ABC’s aren’t just for babies.

Read Article

Infant Skin Conditions

When you first look at your newborn’s face, a parent only sees perfection. But then after you know your child is healthy and all body parts and digits are accounted for, details may start getting noticed and the questions start popping out….

Read Article

Learning through Play

Many parents know that to help their child in math, they have to work through addition or subtraction problems, or that to help a child read, they need to read with their child. But the easiest way to help a baby learn is to play with him. …

Read Article

Is It True Labor … or False?

Your due date is near; your hospital bags are packed and ready. The contractions have begun, and at times, they take your breath away. While still bearable, they’re coming a lot more often and lasting much longer than before. Anxiety and ex…

Read Article

Classes and Kids

My 3 year old is a budding flower of curiosity. She’s a socialite, thrives on evening play with the neighbor kids, and is becoming more skillfully active as the days pass by.As a single income family (SAHM) with 2 young ones at home, we are a fam…

Read Article

Pregnancy Symptoms… for Dads???

  Pregnancy… with it comes many changes for moms and sometimes “strange” changes like cravings and weird dreams… ironically of all the pregnancy symptoms I have experienced – I’ve never had either of those… but, maybe I would have weird d…

Read Article

Talking to Your Kids about Tragedy

Today is September 11th.  Ten years ago our world changed.  In many ways it seems like a hundred years ago…life is so different than it was then.  We were newlyweds getting ready to celebrate our 1st anniversary.  We had no kids, lived in an ap…

Read Article

Learning Personal Responsibility

If I have figured one thing out, as both a father and a teacher, is that one of the most important things we can teach children is personal responsibility. This is also one of the most difficult things to teach. It is difficult because we want …

Read Article

Remembering 9-11

 This weekend we’ll observe the ten year anniversary of 9-11. I have many vivid memories of that day, and I am sure many of you do as well. On that warm September day I was still on maternity leave. Tori was just 6 weeks old at the time. On th…

Read Article

Saving Money on Kids Clothes

  Itâ’s that time of year again when Iâ’m checking my kidsâ’ closets and taking note of what clothes they need for the cooler weather.   My six year old would be content to continue to wear flip flops and summer skirts, but thatâ’s not going to ha…

Read Article

Looking Forward to Fall

     The beginning of summer brings with it much promise and anticipation. New swimsuits for the kids, late nights in the driveways with neighbors, cookouts, camp outs, special ice cream treats and staying up later than usual. I have yet to meet …

Read Article

Questions I Ponder

When I have nothing else to think about:  1. Why is my purse always so heavy?  2. Why don’t all shopping carts come with a cup holder?  3. How does one get the job of coming up with names for paint colors?  4. In the show “Little Bear…

Read Article

Snacks & Lunches That Will Make Mom Smile

I can’t believe that we have had school in session for two weeks.  We are still working on finding our groove.  One thing we are really concentrating on is healthy foods.  My daughter is a picky eater.  It is furstrating. She will eat only limi…

Read Article

TWINS!

Twice blessed means more joy. Surround yourself with these titles about multiples.

Read Article

Got Lice?

Whether you have them, are treating them or just reading this article, I bet your head starts itching and your face contorts into unphotographic poses by the end.
Even though the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) says, “Head lice are not…

Read Article

The Terrorizing Tiger

”Daddy, tiger,” a small voice called. For the fifth consecutive night, the “tiger” in her bedroom that only Stacy could see frightened her and kept her from falling asleep. I had to do something to permanently remove her imaginary threat.  
F…

Read Article

Is Cursive Coming to a Close?

Laptops. Email. Texting. How would a lack of cursive handwriting influence future generations?What would a school without cursive handwriting built into its curriculum look like? Is cursive coming to a close?

Read Article

5 Back to School Items for Moms

Moms don’t need back-to-school items, you’re probably thinking. Okay, maybe we don’t exactly need them, but they’re fun, inexpensive ways to treat ourselves. Here are a few ideas.

Read Article

Twin Birthdays

Most kids count down in anticipation to their birthdays, waiting for the special date when all the attention is turned to them: presents, a cake, even birthday spankings make the day special. But multiples have to share their special day wi…

Read Article

Dancing on Defense

  Soccer kicked off over the weekend.  (Lame pun intended.)  So we began our rushing around to get kids to soccer games and a birthday party.  Due to the busy day, I only caught about a quarter of my daughterâ’s first game.  As I left, the scor…

Read Article

Developing the Exercise Habit

     Now that school is back in session, soccer games are well under way and football season has begun, many families are feeling the crunch of time more than ever. Finding time and energy for exercising for some is especially difficult. I would …

Read Article

Stockpiling Cuddles

Our family is eagerly anticipating the arrival of our 4th daughter this fall, and recently I’ve become more and more aware of how much my older three are noticing the changes that will occur.
  The other night, my oldest (recently turned six) ask…

Read Article

Small Town Life in the Big City

I grew up in Ellinwood, KS…population about 1000.  Growing up in a small town was great…I knew everyone, always knew that if I needed anything that there were countless friends and neighbors that I could go to, went to school with the same 46…

Read Article

Rock Your Weekend

 Camping and Margaret Sarver-two words that I swore would never be spoken in the same sentence (unless that sentence were something along the lines of “Margaret Sarver will never go camping”). Well, I’m here to tell you that has changed. I, Ma…

Read Article

Save on Dining Out

I work hard to plan meals and menus for my family.  I find that we not only eat healthier when we do this, we also save quite a bit of money.  Of course, there are those evenings when I just am not in the mood to cook dinner – and neither is my h…

Read Article

Whatever You Do, Do NOT Let My Child Fall Asleep!

  Iâ’ve spent a fair amount of my parenting years doing my best to get my kids to sleep.  Some of my tactics have involved walking, bouncing, rubbing, shushing, and even running a dryer with my baby in her car seat on top of the dryer.  Of cour…

Read Article

Rest Time Matters

     I’m convinced that my two young children do not require loads of sleep to function. My 3 year old is consistently getting through her days without ever falling asleep at “nap” time, and it has been months (at least 6) since my 11 month old h…

Read Article

Adventures with Mommy

As a military spouse and mom, I have spent a lot of time as a solo parent.  (And let me take a moment to send lots of respect to those of you who are solo parents ALL the time…you can skip this post because you already know way more than me).  …

Read Article

Manners Matter

 I think manners are important. I try to teach my girls to use manners and I try to use them myself (I’m not always successful with either, but I try). So I was beyond thrilled when Tori came home from her first day of 4th grade and told me, “…

Read Article

I’ve Got Home Project Fever

  It started innocently enough.  I simply rearranged a few things in my family room to see what a table would like in a different spot.  I liked it.  That was all it took.  Now, Iâ’m visiting thrift stores and picturing what my family room and …

Read Article

Don’t Lose Yourself

     Motherhood is a calling like no other. The job description doesn’t include an hour lunch break, team meetings, or vacation time. From the time the kids get up to the time they go down for bed, little lives are depending on you. The job descr…

Read Article

Why I Love Facebook

I have found that Facebook is a “love it or hate it” kind of thing.  There are those that love it and post multiple times each day, those who check in everyday but maybe don’t post a whole lot, those who join reluctantly because they feel like th…

Read Article

The Lemonade Stand

I was surprised, earlier in the week, when I returned home on evening (I started back to school this week) to find a line (well actually only 2) cars occupy my parking spot in front of the house. As I drove past the house, looking for a place to…

Read Article

Sister Shakedown

 It was a typical afternoon in the Sarver home, around 4:00. I was lying on the sofa, trying to rest for a few minutes. The girls were playing upstairs. All of a sudden, Tori comes bounding down the stairs saying, “Mom, Mom, you’ve got to see …

Read Article

Savings Breaks Are OK!

This past week I was out of town.  In fact, our entire family was out of town — but not all together.  My husband went to Maryland to a conference, the kids were at granny’s house in Kansas and I was in California, also attending a conference.  …

Read Article

Because I Couldn’t Install Apps on My Rotary Phone

  One of my memories of childhood includes using a rotary dial telephone.  I can remember the table my mom kept it on mostly for decoration.  It worked, but it was old-fashioned even then.  My friends were often fascinated by it.  Iâ’m still ho…

Read Article

Practical Ways to Serve A Family Who Just Moved

     Moving your family from one house to another is no small task. You’ve packed your life belongings in boxes, and now you have the task of locating everything once again, putting it in new places that it belongs, and making a new house into a …

Read Article

Decorating on a Dime

My kids were away this weekend for “Nana Camp” at my mom’s house (THANKS, Mom!) and we spent the weekend redecorating the kids’ rooms as a surprise! My 6.5 year old son is getting a Baseball Themed room and my daughter got some Princess upgrades …

Read Article

Rain Checks — Not Just For Grandma!

It seems that people think that grandmas are those who usually get rain checks on items that are not in stock.  I’m here to tell you that this is NOT the caes!  These are a great tool at your disposal  — and they are free.  What is a rain check?…

Read Article

Blame It On The Heat

  Unless youâ’ve spent the last few weeks in an air-conditioned bunker, you probably realize weâ’re experiencing a fun little heat wave around here.  Of course, there are lots of frustrating things that are associated with the extreme heat, but …

Read Article

Kid Friendly Dining

     If you’re a Mom, you know the challenges you might face bringing your children to any public place to eat. But the reality is, kids have to eat, and sometimes, Mom’s kitchen isn’t always open. Where do you turn for a good meal, friendly serv…

Read Article

Missouri Sales Tax Holiday!

Happy Holidays!  This coming weekend (August 5-7) is Missouri’s Back to School Sales Tax Holiday! During this weekend you won’t have to pay state/local sales tax on clothing, school supplies, computers, and a variety of other items.  This means y…

Read Article

Morning Mayhem

”Wake up!” I call as Sandi and I walk into the boys’ room. With lightning reflexes, they pull their covers over their heads. We expect this and begin to tickle. The boys giggle and we pull the blankets off their beds. The morning mayhem begins.  …

Read Article

The Painted Table

The Painted Table, by Kansas City author Suzanne Field, is a novel based on fact, that follows the growth of a young girl as she strives to rise above the influences of her troubled family. Spiritual moorings help her to honor her mother – …

Read Article

Football or No Football, That is the Question

I love football. I really do. I enjoy tossing the football around with the boys and I really enjoy catching college and professional games on television. Heck, I even go to squeeze in a high school game now and then. I grew up playing and wat…

Read Article

Christmas in July

 Okay, since we are almost in August, I can now tolerate the back to school items being everywhere I go (doesn’t mean I like them, but I can at least put up with them as we enter August). As you head out for your back to school shopping be sur…

Read Article

No Price On A Happy Mom

So recently, I realized that I just was feeling fatigued.  I just couldn’t keep up with anything anymore.  Sure, it has been hot.  The kids are home and getting cabin fever and it is hot.  Just plain hot.  However, it was more than that. I could …

Read Article

Books vs. eBooks

    I wandered through the store having a hard time not feeling sad.  Sure, I was disappointed the deals werenâ’t as good as promised, but mostly I was sad.  Iâ’d spent many hours in the café sipping coffee while browsing through books and…

Read Article

What’s So Great About Kaleidoscope?

     I despise state testing for children in schools. It’s really an awfully skewed way to measure what a student knows or does not know, and it puts all accountability on the teachers, never once taking into account a strength or challenge of a …

Read Article

I Miss the Snow… and I knew I Would!

Last winter as we were hit with a deluge of snow, while others lamented the snow and longed for the pool…. I relished it! I love winter. I love snow. The ONLY thing I dislike is when it results in dangerous road conditions (and I’m very fortuna…

Read Article

Like We Used To

We just got back from a wonderful vacation with our kids and my parents and brother in Colorado.  We stayed in a little cabin that my husband’s uncle bought 40 years ago…he has visited this cabin many times throughout his life which made it so …

Read Article

A Perfect 10

Dear Tori,  Happy 10th birthday! I can’t believe how quickly the time has passed since you were born 10 years ago on that hot July afternoon. I close my eyes and I can picture you, just a tiny little thing being placed in my arms. I remember e…

Read Article

Where Have All The Deals Gone?

If you live for Sunday morning to flip through the newspaper to look over the ads and to see which coupons you received, you might have been a little disappionted lately.  The coupons — are low in value.  The ads — are nonexistent.  Why?  Will …

Read Article

Made With Love and Worn With Pride

I had less than half an hour to shower, dress, get the kids ready, and get to church on time. A quick look in my closet told me one of my favorite tank tops was hanging up and ready to wear. One of my favorite necklaces was nearby and worked pe…

Read Article

Moving and the Unknown

     One week from yesterday, we will be moved into our new house. Out with the old, and in with the new!     Our house looks like a war zone of boxes. The kitchen itself probably has 30 boxes stacked against the windows near the eat-in area. We’…

Read Article

Cool Summer Nights…

This summer has been a SCORCHER… but the nighttime isn’t quite as hot (or maybe we’re used to it by then)… so, we’ve been enjoying a lot of family fun in the evenings! Best of all, many of our fun outings are FREE or cheap thanks to great cou…

Read Article

I Never Thought I Would Say it, but…

I just went to Target and bought ALL of my kids school supplies in one trip.  Now this may not sound out of the ordinary to you, but to someone who loves coupons and sales it could be considered insanity.  I mean…I bought things FULL PRICE that…

Read Article

Family Fun at the Drive In

Last week we took the girls to see Cars 2 at the Boulevard Drive In. I hadn’t been to a drive in since college and was looking forward to sharing the experience with the girls. We had a GREAT time and the evening was a success! Below are a few ti…

Read Article

Never Too Early For Back to School Shopping

It may be only July 14th, but it is the perfect time to start planning for back to school.  While your children are probably less than eager to think about this already, you should do it now.  The deals are slowly starting to show themselves.  Th…

Read Article

Parenting With Confidence

  Twice now, lifeguards have asked me if my daughter needs a lifejacket.  Both of the lifeguards seemed rather uncomfortable with my three year oldâ’s confidence in the water.  Iâ’m sure it didnâ’t help that she likes to float on her belly with h…

Read Article

Enduring Your Child’s Public Meltdown

     My husband and I have unintentionally, sub-consciously stayed away from the children’s mansion known as Toys R Us. Don’t get me wrong – this mansion sure does live up to its expectations. If you’re in dire need of any toy, you’re sure to fin…

Read Article

“Firsts” for Older Kids

Seeing your child laugh for the first time or start to crawl across the floor is so amazing…all of those wonderful “firsts” when you have a baby are just so exciting!  And you may think that once your kids have said their first words and taken …

Read Article

Everything Comes to an End

For over a year now, my wife and I have been trying to sell our house. Honestly, we don’t really want to move. We like our house, love our neighborhood, and have made some wonderful friends. We decided to try to sell our house because my young…

Read Article

It’s Still Summer

 Hey there Retail America-last time I checked the calendar, I noticed we are still in summer. S-U-M-M-E-R. You know summer, those three months the kids are off from school. Those lazy days of swimming, eating ice cream, staying up late, catchi…

Read Article

Price Books? Do I Need One?

With the fluctuation of prices and deals it can be difficult to keep up with the prices around Kansas City.  This is where a Price Book can help.  What’s a Price Book?  Well, it is just what it sounds like — a book in which you keep track of pri…

Read Article

Diving In Without Me

  We were having a fun family afternoon at the pool when I missed it.  My three year old needed to use the restroom, so we were out of the pool area for a few minutes.  As we reentered the area, I noticed my six year old was standing by the di…

Read Article

Talking to Girls

I recently read an article after a couple of friends posted it on Facebook and I could really relate.  The article, entitled “How to Talk to Little Girls” (read it HERE) addresses the tendancy for people to greet little girls with talk about thei…

Read Article

Could Multitasking Be Working Against You?

     You may have heard the analogy before that women are like dry erase boards. We usually have about 7 things going on in our minds at once – pay the bills, make a dentist appointment, take the kids to soccer, go to the grocery store, return li…

Read Article

Mother/Daughter Date: Cool Crest & FroYo

Regular readers of KCParent.com know that we try to make it a habit to spend one on one time with our children. Sometimes that means 30 minutes a day just talking or doing a project together (anything from washing dishes to playing a game), but w…

Read Article

Why the Fourth of July

I was having a discussion with my boys earlier in the week and they were asking me about the Fourth of July. They wanted to know why this holiday is so important. As a US History teacher, I relished in the opportunity to explain to them how in …

Read Article

Favorite Things

A few of my favorite things right now: Coke Zero-I really dislike diet soda, but a friend introduced me to Coke Zero and I’m hooked! It doesn’t taste diet at all. Morning Laziness-I love being able to get up and enjoy a laid-back morning without …

Read Article

Tight Times

Although pinching pennies is now hip, economic hardship is very real. According to the Children’s Defense Fund (www.ChildrensDefense.org), a child is born into poverty every 32 seconds in America. The following titles provide inspiration an…

Read Article

Life with Quadruplets at Home

The Ishum family of Kansas City recently celebrated the birth of quadruplets. Read their story as they experience new milestones with their four children… starting with coming home from the hospital.

Read Article

The Love of the Game

Patrick closed his eyes tightly and swung the bat. My aim was good and the ball sailed almost 10 feet. At nearly 3 years of age, his baseball skills needed to be nurtured, but his enthusiasm never wavered. He loved playing at an improvised …

Read Article

Star-Spangled Fun

Fourth of July picnics and parades are rounding the corner, but does the approaching holiday have you seeing stars and stripes? From serving up the tastiest fare to dressing up the kids with flair, consider this your go-to guide for star-sp…

Read Article

5 Reasons to Bring Back Game Night

Over scheduled kids, 500 channels of cable TV, video games and portable technology… sometimes it’s hard to carve out a little low-tech, no-stress family time. But flick through your fondest family memories and there are probably a few epic …

Read Article

Here a Splurge…..There a Splurge

I know I preach all about using coupons, saving money, not paying full price.  I will admit that there are times when I do pay full price — and dare I say it — don’t use a coupon!  And the thing is, I don’t even feel guilty about it when I do. …

Read Article

Head Injuries 101

     As the mother of a young preschool girl, our playing usually consists of reading books, playing with dolls, playing dress up, and coloring. She likes to build towers, put puzzles together, play in her kitchen, and even shoot baskets on her L…

Read Article

The Summer Fun List

This year at the beginning of the summer we sat down with the kids and asked them what kinds of fun things they wanted to do this summer.  We wrote down everything they said and hung the big list on our fridge.  I love kids because their suggesti…

Read Article

Book Club

 Â This summer, Tori and I have been hosting a mother/daughter book club with several of her friends from school and their moms. We chose the book “Mr. Popper’s Penguins” to read since the movie was coming out this summer. We’ve met three times…

Read Article

A Helpful Public Restroom Tip

  My three young children who canâ’t always â”hold it,â” so I find myself in public restrooms more often than Iâ’d like.  Iâ’m guessing a few of our readers find themselves in the same predicament.  Thatâ’s why Iâ’m going to pass on a helpful tip I o…

Read Article

Off the Beaten Path

We just returned from a GREAT weekend trip to St. Louis (I highly recommend taking a trip there if you haven’t already…so much fun stuff to do with your family!).  I could write a whole post about the trip and all of the fun times we had, but I…

Read Article

You’re So Blessed!

Today, I want to say Thank You to the kind cashier who said to my husband on Father’s Day (we have three daughters with a 4th on the way)… “Wow, you are so blessed! You have all these wonderful, beautiful daughters and they adore you so much! H…

Read Article

Why Is Father’s Day Different

As a father, I am just wondering why Father’s Day doesn’t seem to merit the same amount of “respect” as other holidays. Now, I am not being a pouty dad, who is just trying to get more attention on Father’s Day than I already get. I am asking a …

Read Article

Father’s Day Inexpensive (or Free) Gift Ideas

Father’s Day is just a couple of days away.  If you are still struggling to figure out what to get Dad, there are some really easy and inexpensive (and even free) things you can do to make his day perfect for him. Coupon Book.  You can download a…

Read Article

Our Baby Story: The Almost-Twins

One comment in particular touches my heart: “Oh, I would love to adopt a child, but my husband doesn’t feel the same.” This always strikes me as a bit sad and reminds me how fortunate I am to have married my darling husband, who continually…

Read Article

Choking: How You Can Prevent It

Choking is a common cause of death and injury among infants and toddlers. This is due to small airways, inexperience with chewing and swallowing, inability to cough forcefully enough to dislodge an obstruction, and the fact that babies tend…

Read Article

The Curious Case of the Catnapper

Sleep when baby sleeps is one of the most transferred pieces of advice given to moms-to-be. In the last weeks of my pregnancy, I envisioned the long naps my newborn would take. I thought, “I’ll sleep when he naps, do laundry and write thank…

Read Article

Banking on Cord Blood

A baby’s umbilical cord blood contains a rich supply of potentially life-saving stem cells that can treat leukemia, lymphoma and many other critical medical conditions. Uncertain of the future, but put off by the cost, many parents wrestle …

Read Article

A Mistake

Sometimes warnings on things seem so ridiculous.  One of my favorites is the warning that the “contents may be hot” on the lid of the coffee that I just ordered.  Once we became parents, it was hard not to notice the warning labels that are on n…

Read Article

What on Earth Is My Baby Doing?

Newborns are the trickiest little critters! They are so cute and smell so good…so why do they scare their parents so easily with every little movement and noise? Because…they are delicate, and their odd behaviors are a complete mystery to p…

Read Article

An Attempt at Family Devotionals

     When I was in grade school, my teachers always referred to any first draft of writing as the “sloppy copy.” Double spaced with the intention to mark all over it with corrections and changes, it would visually be a bit hard on the eyes becaus…

Read Article

The Wheels on the Bus…

My husband’s car overheated a couple of days ago due to a leak in some hose.  It had to be in the shop for a day and that meant that he had to take my car to work, which meant that I was trapped at home with the kids with no car!  The horror!  I …

Read Article

Champagne Problems and Dishwasher Days

 I’ve learned so much from my mom over the years. One thing I’ve tried to emulate is her outlook on life. She always sees the silver lining to any storm clouds that come her way, and believe me, she’s had her fair share. A saying that I credit…

Read Article

Warehouse vs. Grocery Store — Which is Better?

So, you are thinking of purchasing a Costco or Sam’s Club membership.  But, you wonder – is it worth it?  It can be, but you have to put forth a little effor and do take some things into consideration before you shell out the cash.  Here are some…

Read Article

Because Reasoning With Children Is Not Easy

I once tried to reason with my four-year-old son that â”two plusâ” isnâ’t a number.  You can imagine how that conversation went nowhere very quickly.  Not long before discussing where exactly â”two plusâ” fell on a number line, I tried in vain to c…

Read Article

Making Coupons Work For You

When it comes to using coupons, there really is much more to it than just using a coupon for an item you want to purchase.  You really need to know how to put your coupons to work for you.  Here are some simple tips to keep i mind to help you get…

Read Article

Plan to Be Spontaneous This Summer

For many families, summer is the time to hit the open road and see the country. However, there is a lot of pressure for parents to take their children everywhere, see everything and keep a tight schedule, according to “Family Adventure Mom,…

Read Article

Birth Order: Where Do You Stand?

Birth order can help parents understand why kids raised in the same house, under the same rules can be so different. Sibling rivalry, gender, spacing, multiple births, parenting styles and a host of other factors influence one’s development…

Read Article

Planning a Successful Reunion

Summer is finally here. The school year has come to an end and the summer activities can begin: A whirlwind of backyard BBQs, lunch dates at the pool or park, office picnics, family vacations and yes, family reunions. Once upon a time, our …

Read Article

June Media Mix

Is summertime high flying or low-riding for you and your kids? Check out these resources for hot weather help.

Read Article

Summer Memory Makers

Think of all of the little things that were magical about summers as a kid: Catching fireflies in a mason jar, eating popsicles on your back steps with colored juice running down your arms or lying in the grass under a tree in your backyard…

Read Article

A Maiden Voyage

I looked sadly at the large tree limb as it lay where the storm had tossed it in my front yard. The sugar maple that lost this large limb is a beautiful, mature tree that shades our house in summer and anchors our Christmas decorations in w…

Read Article

Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease

Just when you think your children are out of the woods with the cold and flu season behind them, a summertime disease called Hand, Foot and Mouth rounds the corner. It comes on with fever, muscle aches and painful blisters attacking your ch…

Read Article

Making Time for Exercise

There’s nothing quite like putting on a swim suit to realize what kind of shape you are (or aren’t) in!  I’d like to say that I’m just as fit and trim as I was a few years ago, but that just wouldn’t be true.  I’ve found that being a mother to yo…

Read Article

Be SAFE and have fun

     Now that summer is finally here, a whole new array of activities follows closely behind. Festivals, swim parties, exhibits, farmer’s markets, parties in the park, and free concerts outdoors are just a few of the events that bring fun to summ…

Read Article

In Remembrance… thank you to our Armed Services!

“Day is done, gone the sun. From the lake, from the hills, from the sky….”
As I hear Taps played, tears well up.
I remember listening to the familiar military bugle call played seven years ago, as my family and I attended the brick dedication…

Read Article

No More Pencils, No More Books…

 No more teacher’s dirty looks! Summer is here and I am thrilled! I love summer! In no particular order are a few of the many things I love about the season: Unrushed Mornings I like being able to get up, eat breakfast and get dressed in my o…

Read Article

Show Me The Money!

It seems that TLC’s Extreme Couponing is making people across the country become a little more interested in saving on their weekly grocery bill.  I keep getting people asking me how they can save 95% on their grocery bill and they want to do it …

Read Article

Memorial Day Deals and Events

There are tons of special deals, freebies, and events going on this weekend and you will be able to save BIG!  First I’ll list out the store deals and at the end there will be a few free/cheap events in the KC area that I want to highlight. Ret…

Read Article

A Time To Be Careful and Helpful, Not Fearful

  I slept through the tornado sirens on Saturday night.  I sort of laughed about it when my husband told me.  Fortunately, and unbeknownst to me, he was up watching the weather in case we needed to take better cover.  Not surprisingly, my chil…

Read Article

Summer is Approaching……Now What?!?

     Last week marked the final day of Ava’s “school” for the year. Her coveted Thursday each week for Mother’s Day Out was by far her favorite day of the week. I could always count on her to ask to be taken to school when Monday morning rolled a…

Read Article

A KC Summer Staycation

Gas prices are haunting us all. Stories of $5/gallon are impacting vacation plans for everyone. So, our family made a list of “Staycation” Ideas to enjoy as much fun in KC as possible this summer.
  Over the weekend, I worked on a list of FREE Su…

Read Article

The Joys of Kids Growing Up

Sometimes I really mourn the loss of “the baby years.”  I remember holding those little newborns like it was yesterday.  The sweet baby smiles and napping with a baby snuggled up on your chest…it’s heaven.   But even though I get those feeling…

Read Article

The Weekend of FREE!

Looking for something to do with the family this weekend? There are two great FREE family-friendly events that you won’t want to miss!   Saturday head down to the Power and Light District for the first Sprint Family Fun Series. It runs from 11:00…

Read Article

So Many Deals. So Little Time.

When I first started out saving monehy with coupons, I remember thinking that the only way to really save was to try to catch every deal I found.  I would spend my Sunday afternoons with my ads in hand and work hard to try to figure out which dea…

Read Article

School’s out for the Summer: Be Prepared

The School Year is coming to a close for KC Kids. Summer for school-age children means lots of extra time on their hands for fun and games. For parents it can bring considerable apprehension. Follow these tips for a successful summer break!

Read Article

I’m Ready for a Summer Break!

  Summer break is right around the corner.  I may not be the one attending school, but Iâ’m still ready for a break!   Here are a few things Iâ’m ready to take a break from: Early mornings (My kids have always been early risers, but having to…

Read Article

Battling Bedtime

     In the world of kids and sleep, mine do not go together very well. Sometimes it looks more like a toddler trying to pound an incorrect puzzle piece into a puzzle.     My nearly 3 year old daughter has been boycotting, picketing, and rioting …

Read Article

Losing Weight/Living Healthy on a Budget

You know how you are going along thinking that everything is going great and then one day you step on the scale and you’ve gained 8 pounds in the last 5 months?  Yeah…that just happened to me.  Ugh!  I know why it has happened…I don’t find th…

Read Article

Summer Fun for Baby

From taking indoor activities outside to summer style and starting a garden, the options are endless. Whether it’s baby’s first summer or they’re a seasoned warm-weather expert, make it the best summer yet.

Read Article

Bridal & Grad Gifts on a Budget

I noticed this week that my mailbox is filling up again with graduation announcements and wedding invitations.  Of course, this means that we need to send cards or gifts to each of these people.  Since we are on a budget, we want to make sure tha…

Read Article

The Send Button is Not Your Friend

  â”Sticks and stone may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.â”  Did you ever hear that as a child?  Did you ever believe it to be true?  I know that, for me, the things that have hurt most are often the things people say.  Words are po…

Read Article

The Complexity of Toddlers!

     I ran across an article on Parenting.com that demanded I beckon my husband downstairs to share the hysteria and the laughter with me. Jokingly, the article explained “strange toddler behaviors,” to which anyone with a child under 3 (and mayb…

Read Article

Couponing for Community

Using coupons is a great way to save money for your family, but it’s also a great way to give to others in need without spending a lot.  We don’t all have a lot of wiggle room in the budget that allows us to give as much as we would like.  But by…

Read Article

How To Be Two Places At Once Because I Have No Favorites

    My kids are always playing the â”favorite game.â”  â”Whatâ’s your favorite color?â” they ask me.  â”Um, yellow, I guess,â” I reply.  Maybe Iâ’m odd in the fact that I like so many things that it is hard for me to pick a favorite.  Itâ’s much…

Read Article

No Peas, Please

     I must have forgotten that introducing foods to babies is not always as easy and charming as the pictures in the Parenting magazines. I’m guilty of assuming that the second child will be easier than the first, simply because I’m not as nervo…

Read Article

Kids and the News

It’s a big news week…some good (Osama Bin Laden has been killed), some tragic (tornados in the south), some fun and lighthearted (Royal Wedding!), and some educational (Space Shuttle Endeavour’s last mission).  It is weeks like this where I cou…

Read Article

Shh… Don’t tell Dad where we’re going!

My husband and I try our best to spend one on one time with each of our girls and we specifically set aside time for parent/child dates throughout the month, but sometimes the best moments come spontaneously!
  On Friday, we were going on a weeke…

Read Article

Pretty in Pale

A beautiful bronze tan can quickly lead to wrinkles, brown spots and melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer.
Cindy Patrick, a local mother of two, spent excessive amounts of time tanning during her college years because she had very fa…

Read Article

Now’s the Write Time

Mother’s Day is the perfect time to revive the lost art of letter writing. It’s an opportunity to share your thoughts and feelings with your mom, grandma, friend or any other special woman in your life.

Read Article

The Popularity Trap

Whether it’s a crazy hairstyle, clothing you never imagined they’d wear, facial piercings, new school activities or bizarre slang that makes you cringe, face it: Right now, your adolescent is striving to fit in. She wants to feel accepted a…

Read Article

Money Matters: Raising Money Savvy Kids

Kids may not always listen to the life lessons we try to impart, but when it comes to money, they are an amazingly attentive audience. T. Rowe Price, a global investment management firm, found in a recent survey that 65 percent of kids appr…

Read Article

What Moms Do

“I’ll be right in,” Sandi said, “I just want to make sure the boys are all right.”  
On the coldest night of the year, I didn’t blame her for ensuring the boys were covered. It’s just part of being a mom. As I waited, I thought on my mother and a…

Read Article

All About Moms

For Moms, about moms, by a mom. 50 Best iPhone Apps for Moms by Babble. This website provides a list of the top 10 apps in the five categories of Health and Fitness, Family and Fun, Creative and Practical, Cooking, and Shopping, right at your fi…

Read Article

Peace at Any Price?

 Do you do things in order to keep peace in your home? I just realized the other day that there are several ways in which I do it in our home. Ty doesn’t like for Tori to leave her radio on when she leaves her room. I don’t think that is an un…

Read Article

I’m Not A Cupcake Mom!

  As I planned my oldest daughterâ’s first birthday party, I decided I wanted to make the cupcakes.   I didnâ’t have any amazing baking skills. It was just something I wanted to do for my daughter.  After all, most one year olds donâ’t exactly ha…

Read Article

Little Miss Independent

     I’m not exactly sure what happened from one night to the next, but my little girl is surely becoming an independent “little” woman right before my eyes. From the moment our children are born, we are pushing them toward independence, and yet …

Read Article

Ziplocs. Mom’s Best Friend.

This may seem a tad bit random, but I feel the need to share my love of Ziplocs.  And when I say Ziploc, I mean any resealable plastic baggie.  But it’s just easier to say Ziploc.  Anyway, I love those little things and not just because they do a…

Read Article

Hearing the Heartbeat

Today was my “first favorite” doctor’s visit during pregnancy… we heard the heartbeat for the first time! Today was the day when things changed from “just having pregnancy sickness” all the time to starting to really meet the newest member of o…

Read Article

How I Help the Easter Bunny

Like most dads, I have many roles. Not only am I am dad, but I am the homework helper, the chauffer, the Scout leader, the baseball, soccer, flag football, and basketball coach, and a million other things. I also find myself playing the role of…

Read Article

Random Thoughts

 I was reading a magazine earlier this week (couldn’t tell you which one, I read a lot of magazines) and in it was a section of “new and favorite” things. It was basically a random collection of things the author liked at the moment. So, due t…

Read Article

A Book to Slow You Down

Every so often, maybe twice a year, I begin devouring parenting books.  Of course, by devouring, I mostly mean that I request them from the library, pick them up, bring them home, allow them to gather dust, and then occasionally even pay overdue …

Read Article

Balancing Safety and Values

     In the next few months, many families will be traveling together to take a summer vacation. The majority of these families will use air travel to arrive to their destination. And one thing that all travelers must be soberly aware of: no one …

Read Article

The Value of Routines and Shortcuts

  I remember clearly hearing a speaker at my MOPS group talk about routines. At the time, I was mom of a 2 year old and infant, and as she listed several routines that helped her day, I distinctly remember thinking that many/most of those routine…

Read Article

Why This Couponer isn’t “Extreme”

Have you seen the new show on TLC about “Extreme Couponers?”   I watched the hour long special a few months ago and have watched a few of the new episodes as well.  I have to say that the show is disappointing to me.  As someone who enjoys using …

Read Article

Sick Kids

I knew I was in trouble when I heard my daughter moaning. It was 6:30 am and I was about to run out the front door and head to work. The moan however, made me stop in my tracks. I dropped my book bag to the floor and went to investigate. I fo…

Read Article

My Baby’s Not a Baby Anymore

 Well, since she is 6 and a half, I guess she hasn’t been a baby for a while, but to me, she’s my baby. And she lost her first tooth last week. So I have to face the facts. She is growing up and there’s nothing I can do about it. One of my mos…

Read Article

Top Ten Garage Sale Tips

It’s springtime and I’m ready to declutter the house!  I go through the house, room by room and clean out things we no longer need/use and clothes my children have outgrown.  Of course, I could just donate it to charity or send it to the dump, bu…

Read Article

Dealing With Increasing Gas Prices

At  thirty-something, my kids already think I’m old.  I can’t imagine what they’ll think when they’re teens who can drive and hear me say, “I can remember when gas was only a dollar or two.”  I suppose they’ll feel the same way I did when I heard…

Read Article

Would You Like Cash Back?

     Every time I use my debit card at the store, I’m taunted with this question: “Would you like cash back?” My rhetorical response with much eagerness is always, “Of course I would! Who wouldn’t?” But then I chuckle at the fact that answering t…

Read Article

Let Them Be Themselves

My first child is a boy.  And he has pretty much no opinion on his clothing or appearance other than that he prefers to wear athletic pants/shorts to anything with a button and zipper.  He’s now in Kindergarten and wears uniforms to school so we …

Read Article

Spring Cleaning!

 Wow! Have you been enjoying the warmer temps this week? I just love spring and warmer weather. These nice temps have put me into a major spring cleaning mode.  If youâ’ve gotten your April issue of KC Parent , then youâ’ve read about (and se…

Read Article

When the Little Things Become Sentimental

  Around our house, weâ’ve found that one of the best ways to get rid of something we no longer need, is to place it by the curb a day or two before trash day.  More often than not, someone hauls away what was once our treasure.   Recently, …

Read Article

Taking Pictures Is An Adventure With Kids

In the blink of an eye, your newborn has become a baby, then that baby turns into a toddler, then a preschooler, and soon, your “newborn” is running off to school with a backpack and lunch in tow, and you’re left wondering where all the time…

Read Article

I NEVER want to be a Mother…

Recently, my oldest (5 1/2) announced that she never wants to be a mother. Of course, I don’t expect her to make such a decision at this stage in life or take it too seriously, but we did ask why she felt this way. Initially, she said, “I just wa…

Read Article

Catching a Movie Without the Cost

Can you believe how much it costs to go see a movie these days?  Even if you don’t take the whole family and just have a date night, you are looking at $20+ just for the movie.  And don’t get me started on the $8 popcorn and $5 small drinks!  So…

Read Article

A Sweet Note

 The past week has been one of those trying weeks that as parents, we all face. I won’t get into specifics, but I’ve been questioning things I’ve done and decisions I’ve made and feeling a bit down on myself as a mom. So it was a nice surprise…

Read Article

Every Parent’s Fear

Ian darted past me and I lunged for him. He was too quick, though, and ran up the walkway. I limped after him fast as I could on my bad knee.

Read Article

More Than Just a Headache

Your head is throbbing. Your eyes are sensitive to light. Your vision is splotchy. And you are beginning to feel nauseous. Likely, you’re not suffering from a common headache. These symptoms sound more like those of a migraine.

Read Article

The Many Guidelines: They are Always a Changing!

  My three children were all born within a little over three years.  Therefore, it really surprised me that within such a short amount of time, safety recommendations had changed.   It was out with the bumper pad in the crib and in with a n…

Read Article

Make Believe for Real Life

     My daughter loves to play pretend. You can often find her running around the house with various princess dolls having a conversation about the Beast (from Beauty and the Beast), playing for hours in a day with her coveted doll house in her r…

Read Article

Making Lemonade out of Lemons

It’s the call that ever parent dreads…our babysitter was cancelling just two hours before we were supposed to meet some old friends who were only in town for the weekend.  We had a lovely evening planned…we were meeting at a fancy restaurant …

Read Article

Flying with Children

 I don’t travel by plane very often. I did, however, take a trip to Hilton Head over Spring Break and was on a total of 4 planes for the trip there and back. On a side note, what’s up with having to pay to check you bags? It’s been so long sin…

Read Article

Getting Facebook Deals without “Facebooking”

Lately it seems, there are more and more coupons and free offers being offered through Facebook.  I know many pepole end up paassing because you â”donâ’t do Facebook.â”  There is an easy way to get in on these offers without sharing too much infor…

Read Article

Sleepovers?

  Letâ’s talk sleepovers.    In the past week, both of my kids have had offers of sleepovers.  Granted, only one of those was actually confirmed by the friendâ’s mom, but still.  The idea was out there and there seemed to be no going back to…

Read Article

Coping with Childhood Fears

As I dust the cobwebs off of my memory bank from childhood, I can recall one childhood fear that was very strong and consistent for me: the fear of the dark. This fear only took place when having to go through my parents bedroom, bathroom, and c…

Read Article

A Spontaneous Mother/Daughter Tea….

Once in a while, I like to take my girls out for an “extra girly day” to do things that “Daddy wouldn’t enjoy.” Lately, I haven’t been feeling my best, so once I had a break and began to feel a little better, I thought it would be fun to take the…

Read Article

One of Those Days

 Flash back to Monday, the first full day of spring break. I’d been out of town for the past four days and had a lot of work to catch up on (as well as tons of laundry and housework). My plan was to let the girls play around the house while I …

Read Article

Save Money At The Pump

Everytime I drive down the street, it seems the price of gasoline just keeps rising.  We all know gasoline coupons are not very common.  Therefore, we all have to take a few steps so that we can conserve gasoline and get the most out of each fill…

Read Article

Alike But Different

  It always delights me when someone makes a comment about how my three children look so much alike.  I know itâ’s silly, but somehow I think it will make their bonds tighter.  Like I said, itâ’s probably silly!   However, though they all loo…

Read Article

Did We Remember to Get…?

     Ever feel like your packing for a small vacation, but you’re really just trying to meet some family for a meal out? This past weekend we were celebrating my Mother-in-laws birthday with a brunch on the plaza. My husband and I were up late th…

Read Article

Baby Shower Tips

Baby Showers are a time for fun and celebration! Our readers share their favorite ideas and games for a festive and memorable occasion every Mom-to-Be will love!

Read Article

It’s Tummy Time!

Is your baby getting enough time on his tummy each day? If she’s between the ages of 2 and 4 months old and holding up her head, it’s tummy time!

Read Article

Frozen Yogurt in Kansas City

Frozen yogurt is the new treat of choice these days, and with so many benefits, one can understand why. According to www.Essortment.com, this deliciously, guilt-free sensation improves the body’s natural defenses, contains protein, calcium,…

Read Article

Bringing Books to Life at Kansas City Museums

Reading bedtime stories is one of the most cherished childhood memories for parents and kids. As you read to your children, you can bring their favorite stories to life by adding to the fun with an outing specifically suited to their favori…

Read Article

Raise a Baby Who Can Entertain Herself

Raising a child that can entertain him or herself is perhaps one of the greatest challenges of being a parent early on. Obviously, we have to be there for our children constantly. But being there too much can be detrimental both to a child’…

Read Article

Our Baby Story: Seeking Support

When people think of genetic disorders, Down Syndrome, Cystic Fibrosis and Sickle Cell are usually the first to come to mind because they are so common. However, another genetic disorder just as prevalent is not nearly as well known: Turner…

Read Article

Saving Money is S.I.M.P.L.E.

I’ve been asked time and time again – what can I do to save money.  I usually respond by saying “Oh – saving money is so simple.”  That got me to thinking that it really is S.I.M.P.L.E. to save by following a few steps: Start small.  Try to avoi…

Read Article

Why Aren’t Minivans Cool?

  Thatâ’s right, I used to be cool, but now I drive a minivan and for some reason that automatically kicks me out of the club, right?  Â  Okay, letâ’s be honest.  Iâ’ve never been that cool and thatâ’s just fine with me.  However, I truly donâ’t …

Read Article

Teachable Trail Mix

     Our Parent Educator (Parents as Teachers) gave us a visit the other day, and as always, came with something fun and educational for my daughter to do. Parents as Teachers is a free, voluntary program that supports parents through providing h…

Read Article

Old Wives’ Tales… Fact or Fiction

There’s just something about pregnancy that brings out the Old Wives’ Tales… all the little old tips, tricks, and “sure signs” of what is happening from friends, family, acquaintances, and strangers… I thought it’d be fun to make a list and s…

Read Article

Spring Break Dreamin’

Spring Break is almost here and I for one am kind of in a panic!  Oh, how I wish we were going away to some tropical location where the kids could frolic in the surf while I sit in a beach chair sipping a cold beverage.  But, that’s not happening…

Read Article

An Oldie But Goodie

 Last week, I did some spring cleaning. During the process I came across an old Gameboy (remember those?). Now I must confess, I LOVE to play video games. I have one of the classic arcade Frogger machines in my basement (and I, like George, on…

Read Article

The Money Saving Date Night

I can recall “back in the day” having dates with my husband.  Of course several years and three children later, they seem to be a thing of the past.  Recently, my husband and I have really began to work on spending time together – in any way we c…

Read Article

Bending the Rules for the Baby of the Family

  Lately, it isnâ’t unusual for my kindergartner to complain that she doesnâ’t get to do anything fun with us since she is in school all day.  Itâ’s a good thing she doesnâ’t know what frequently happens during our afternoons or sheâ’d be even more…

Read Article

When Do I Get My Life Back?

     It is undeniable that having children changes your life forever. The positive changes far exceed any drawbacks one might come up with, but I think we’ve all been in that same boat of wondering, When do I get my life back?     I had one of th…

Read Article

The Bald Truth

”What happened to your leg?” James asked my friend. Steve, an amputee for many years, laughed.
“All kids are curious about it,” he told me, but I was still mortified. I want my kids to be honest, but courteous, and I thought back to my p…

Read Article

To Snack or Not to Snack

It is the middle of the afternoon when they suddenly hit you: hunger pains. Your stomach is growling and it is just about time for a snack. This is where the bad habits come in. Should you eat the apple or the donut or nothing at all? Paula…

Read Article

Meningitis Facts: Save the Brain Membrane

Why can one type of meningitis be treated with antibiotics and not the other? And why are there so many organisms which can cause this one disease? Meningitis facts can strain the brain, but the plain answer is: meningitis is any inflammati…

Read Article

Seven Steps to Financial Peace

After weight loss strategies, debt-free living must be one of the most talked about, search-engined topics around. Evidence: a recent Google search returned “about” 9,720,000 results in .12 seconds. Some catchy titles popped up, but the…

Read Article

Finding the Right Camp for Your Child

You are considering a summer camp, but how to choose? There’s a camp that is ideally suited for every child, providing a summer of growth and fun whether your child attends a day or overnight camp, a specialized or traditional camp. With a …

Read Article

Don’t Compare

Attention parents: If your children are as different as night and day, raise your hand! And if you’ve ever compared your child to another, raise your other hand!

Read Article

5 Ways to Toughen Up Your Child

It’s a parent’s job to prepare a child for the complexities of life, and the road ahead is a tough one. Olathe mom Jennifer Hamblin Robinson teaches her three children to focus on the solution not the problem. “I try to let them work out th…

Read Article

Hovering Parents, Anxious Kids

Helicopters carry heavy loads and hover as they rescue people from precarious situations. As parents, we sometimes perform helicopter duties like carrying a sobbing child through a crowded airport or scooping up a toddler before she runs in…

Read Article

Cooking in Bulk

I’m due for a trip to Social Suppers.  I’ve mentioned it before here, but one of the major things that has fallen through the cracks since I returned to work has been cooking.  I just can’t motivate myself to cook every night.  And so we end up e…

Read Article

The Power of Pause

 It’s that time of year for me when I plan out editorial. A few times throughout the year, I spend a couple of days putting together a fairly comprehensive list of upcoming articles for the magazines. I’ve read more than my fair share of paren…

Read Article

Tips From the Other Side of Potty Training

  It was a bit odd to be on the other side of the potty training conversation.  How did that happen?  Now, donâ’t get me wrong, Iâ’m very, very happy to be on this side of potty training.  Itâ’s just that it hasnâ’t been long since I was the one c…

Read Article

Manners Matter

     Once your child can begin understanding what you are saying, they are ready to learn manners! The standard “please” and “thank you” can be taught to a child who is still not yet speaking, but is using sign language instead. Politeness and th…

Read Article

3 Helpful Household Hints from Grandma

Over the years, my grandmother has become my housekeeping role model… what I aspire to be. Her home is always SPOTLESS (okay, she would say this isn’t true… but it is true), 100% comfortable and inviting, and cozy. People always feel welcome …

Read Article

Get Some Time Away

Children make our lives so much more full and wonderful, but I firmly believe that all parents can benefit from some time away from their kids every now and then. (And the kids can benefit, too).  Anyone who has taken a short vacation without kid…

Read Article

Two Questions

 The other day, Ally, my younger, walks up and asks me out of the blue, “Is the first time you kiss at the wedding?”. I gave the “cop-out” answer of, “Ask your dad”. She did, and dad told her that yes, the first time you do kiss is at the wedd…

Read Article

Creative Ways to Find Coupons

So, do you clip your coupns and think “I wish I could get more of this really high value coupon?”  Believe it or not, there are a few ways that you can get them.  Now, you may have to get a little creative, but when it comes to saving money, it c…

Read Article

Garage Sales: Friend or Foe?

  As the weather hints at spring, my thoughts are turning toward all the fun to be had in the warmer months.  For me, part of that fun includes garage sales.  Though I hope to never have one again, I do enjoy shopping at garage sales.   In fac…

Read Article

Distracted Drivers

     If you were asked whether you consider yourself to be a distracted driver, how would you answer? I know my temptation is to answer emphatically “no,” although if I gave an honest self-reflection on my driving times, I would have to admit def…

Read Article

I’ve Never Seen a Frog Dance…

This weekend, I took the girls to CYT’s production of Honk! (a.ka. The Ugly Duckling). We had a great time with the classic fairytale, but the highlight of the show was about halfway into the production. A tap dancing, singing, frog comes out on …

Read Article

Daily Deal Site Explosion!

I have posted about Daily Deal Sites like Groupon here before, but there has been an explosion of new sites in the last few months and I wanted to share some of the new sites with all of you so that you can be sure to get in on these deals!  For …

Read Article

Finding Time for Our Anniversary

My wife and I had been planning for weeks. Our wedding anniversary was on a Friday this year and we were going to make the most of it. We were going to spend the whole day together, just the two of us, which doesn’t happen very often with three…

Read Article

Valentine’s Day From the Heart (not the wallet)

Valentine’s Day is only a few days away.  One thing I head time and time again is that many pepole don’t need one holiday for them to show someone they care.  The thing is that if you DON’T do something for that special person – you may just end …

Read Article

Little ‘I Love You’s’ from Little Babies

     With Valentine’s Day quietly lurking right around the corner, most of us are busy preparing special treats, cards, and gifts for those we love. Our kids have a whole list of Valentine’s to make for friends at school or church, and in the lit…

Read Article

Vacation ROCKS OR Lessons we Learned on the Road

This weekend, we enjoyed a family getaway to Omaha, NE (watch for the upcoming March issue of KC Parent Magazine to discover why this is one of our TOP PICKS for a Family Weekend Trip). It’s become a joke with my husband and I how often we go out…

Read Article

Balancing Act

I recently had someone ask me how the transition back into the workforce had gone (I returned to full time work outside of the home last fall after spending 5 years as a stay at home mom).  Thankfully, the transition went really well for me and f…

Read Article

Try This, Part 2!

 Another idea, but this one doesn’t involve food. In fact, the idea is based on a poster my principal had hanging in her office back from my teaching days. It read, “Some days are meant for playing.” I couldn’t agree more. Life goes by so quic…

Read Article

Why Take Time To Clip Your Coupons?

I have read articles that claim coupon clipping is not worth the time – nor effort.  Sure – I can admit that I’ve looked at my inserts with rolling eyes as I grab my scissors.  But then, I think about not clipping them and realize that there are …

Read Article

Taming the Laundry Beast

  First we talked about clutter busting and then we moved on to meal planning.  This week, letâ’s talk about something equally riveting shall we?  Iâ’m talking about laundry, of course.  How do you tame the laundry beast?   The thing about la…

Read Article

Keeping Your Sanity During A Blizzard

We’ve all heard it. Now we’re just waiting for it.Piles and piles of snow are about to start falling our way, and if you’ve seen the gas stations and grocery stores in the last 2 or 3 days, you will see that Kansas City is gearing up for “Snowmag…

Read Article

A Healthy, Happy Heart

Heart disease. Maybe you think you are too young to start worrying about it. Maybe you think it’s a man’s disease. Maybe you think that because you eat well and stay active, your heart is perfectly healthy. Whatever your thoughts may be, he…

Read Article

Sticking to the Curfew

They’re here: the years you may or may not have been looking forward to since the birth of your child. Your little sweetheart is now a tween or teen. Play dates at home have now been replaced with pleas to go to movies, school dances an…

Read Article

Pregnant with Quadruplets

Kansas City mom-to-be, Rebecca Ishum, shares her personal story from the moment she learned she was pregnant with quadruplets to the eager anticipation of their arrival!

Read Article

8 Surprisingly Unhealthy Foods

Parents often choose foods including oatmeal for breakfast, yogurt for a snack, a taco for lunch and fish sticks at dinner. It’s better than eating out right? Think again. These items can often have more sugar, sodium and trans fat than you…

Read Article

Make Your Smile Shine

Although tooth decay, also known as dental caries, is a very real and prominent childhood disease, it can be an easily manageable and preventable condition. The month of February provides an excellent opportunity for the dental community to…

Read Article

By the Numbers

There is a set of numbers called the Fibonacci Sequence that is one of the world’s greatest mysteries. Each number in the sequence is the sum of the two preceding numbers. (1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21…) It appears everywhere in nature, includi…

Read Article

Let me call You Sweetheart

I watched Sandi leave the house as I stood by her car door. I didn’t need to open her car door; she was perfectly able to do it herself. I wanted to do it, though. I decided long ago that we would remain newlyweds, no matter how many years …

Read Article

Five Reasons Your Child Needs Camp

There’s no doubt that summer camp is fun. Kids get to sing silly songs, play funny games, swim in lakes and tell spooky stories around a campfire. This is the image of camp that has been captured and memorialized in films, books and televis…

Read Article

Having a Stockpile Comes in Handy

I have posted before about stockpiling and why it is really the BEST way to save a ton of money on non-perishable foods, cleaning, and toiletry items.  By stockpiling you use coupons and sales to grab a supply of an item when it is deeply discoun…

Read Article

Try This!

 I take pride in the fact that we eat the majority of our dinners at home. I feel it is healthier (and is definitely good for our wallet!). But, that being said, I am no gourmet and can’t say cooking is one of my top ten favorite activities. I…

Read Article

What’s For Dinner?

  Iâ’ve got organization on my brain.  Fueled by my friendâ’s help to organize my basement, Iâ’ve continued to scrutinize everything in my house.  Iâ’d be a bit embarrassed to tell you how many trips Iâ’ve made to the thrift store to donate our unu…

Read Article

Creating A Masterpiece

     If you are a parent, remember that you are creating a masterpiece yet to be revealed to the rest of the world.     I remember finding out the news that we were pregnant with our first child, and my husband and I were ecstatic! We thought abo…

Read Article

Homemade Valentines!

We LOVE to make Valentine Cards (pun intended)! Every year, we buy blank jigsaw puzzles at U.S. Toy, then stamp them with the girls’ handprints and names. I then keep each puzzle in a ziplock bag and the girls then make Valentines – one per puzzl…

Read Article

Saving Money on “Emergency” Purchases

It’s happened to everyone.  Right in the middle of the Golden Globes your TV starts smoking.  Or mid-wash, the laundry machine starts making a terrible sound and refuses to drain.  Everyone has shopping emergencies…the question is how do you de…

Read Article

Keeping the House Show Ready . . . In the Snow

Gloves, mittens, stocking caps, ear warmers, snow boots, winter coats, sweatshirts, snow pants, wet socks, and tracks of snow and salt clutter the area around the front door. Trails of snow lead to the bathroom, the bedrooms, and the kitchen. P…

Read Article

Tip for Snowy Days

 Whew! We sure have had our share of snow days! And while I love the girls being home, I could do without the cold and mess that accompany the snow. Also, it’s been since the middle of December that my girls have gone a full week of school. I …

Read Article

Clutter Busting With a Friend

I’d finally had it.  The clutter in the basement seemed as though it would soon take over the house.  Outgrown children’s clothes were taking over one corner while Christmas decorations were strewn all over another.  Rarely used scrapbook supplie…

Read Article

Which Preschool Is Right For Your Child?

     My husband and I recently attended a Preschool/Mother’s Day Out Fair hosted by Blue Valley Parents As Teachers. Our daughter turns three in June, and we have decided that she is ready for preschool! She has been involved with a  Mother’s Day…

Read Article

Read Aloud Family Time

Starting tomorrow (Jan. 18 – Mar. 31), families can participate in Reading Aloud Family Time (R.A.F.T.) at the Mid-Continent Public Libraries. Participating families who read three multi-chapter books together earn a free hardback version of The …

Read Article

You Really Should Go Shopping….NOW!

This weekend is a GREAT weekend to get out and go shopping, so if you don’t have any other plans tomorrow, get out there and stock up!  I was wandering The Legends this afternoon and couldn’t believe how amazing the deals were…almost every stor…

Read Article

Top Five Questions

That I need answers to: 1. Where are all the scissors in my home? Seriously, we have at least ten pair and I can NEVER find one. Where do they go? While I’m at it, could someone locate the sharpened pencils? It’s so bad that my mom bought me a pe…

Read Article

Sometimes I’m Okay With Unfair

  I recently put my oldest daughter to bed after reading to her for nearly an hour.  We both got caught up in her book, Changes for Samantha.  It was our last book in the series of the now retired American Girl Doll, Samantha.  I thoroughly en…

Read Article

Black History in Kansas City

Honor the memory of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. with a visit to one of Kansas City’s museums preserving the story of Black History in America and Civil Rights. Celebrate with special events all week long honoring the legacy of Martin Luther…

Read Article

Snow Day Memories

     The first real snow fall of the season is full of promise, anticipation, and potential. Waking up yesterday morning to see a fresh, white blanket of snow covering the ground brought back that same feeling I got as a kid when I knew school ha…

Read Article

My Love/Hate relationship with Cell Phones

Do you ever find yourself wondering how you lived before cell phones, and wishing at times, that you still COULD?
  While I’m not ready (and never will be) to give up having a cell phone entirely (I have more than once been very grateful to have …

Read Article

It’s a Big Week for Bargain Hunters!

This week could be a really good week for those of us who like good deals!  Two of my favorite sales *may* be happening later this week…the Target Toy Clearance and Old Navy’s extra 50% off Clearance sale.  Based on the timing of these sales la…

Read Article

Celebrating Louise Braille

In February 2003, I got a call from Children’s Mercy Hospital informing me that my son needed immediate eye surgery. My son was already in the hospital, having been born sixteen weeks early the previous November. We knew that there was a possib…

Read Article

Two Weeks

Two weeks. That’s how long Christmas Break was. For those of you who know me or have read my blogs in the past, you know that I much prefer to have my girls home with me than at school. So I look forward to and relish the time off from school for…

Read Article

Plan Ahead for The Holidays

I know that you still have up your Christmas lights and are still eating left over ham, but now is the perfect time to plan ahead for the 2011 holiday season.   The holidays aren’t an unexpected expense – you know they are coming.  They arrive at…

Read Article

Saving Toys (Or Not)

  My kids were blessed with many new toys for Christmas.  However, Iâ’m not sure anything gave them more of a thrill than Grandma taking them out to a storage unit and digging around and finding daddyâ’s old He-Man toys.  They were delighted and…

Read Article

Baby Sleeping 101

     Did any of your babies come with a full-proof sleep manual, because mine definitely did not! Getting your baby to sleep and staying asleep for a good, solid nap is (to me) not exactly the easiest task. While there are several books on sleep,…

Read Article

Can you save $1000 this year?

What if I just handed you $1000…what would you do with it?  Go on a mini vacation?  Buy a new TV?  Invest it?  Save it for a renovation?  The possibilities are endless!  Well, I am hoping that this time next year you all will have an extra $100…

Read Article

Dealing with Disappointment

Teaching life skills such as dealing with disappointment can be difficult, but can be rewarding in the long run parents help the child grow to become a responsible person.

Read Article

The Bottom Line About Camp Costs

Parents know that camp is an experience that will last a lifetime. However, they may worry about the cost, especially if there is more than one camp-aged child in the house. The good news for parents is that there is a camp for just about e…

Read Article

Local Family’s Search for a Diagnosis

One family’s quest for a diagnosis begins at my daughter’s birth. She arrived in this world two weeks after her due date, looking green because she had produced the meconium while still inside me. The next five days were a roller coaster of…

Read Article

529 Facts: What you need to know before investing

You’ve heard this before–If you’re a parent, you should consider using a qualified tuition savings plan or a prepayment tuition plan to save even more for college. But while most parents are familiar with 529 plans, the number of people wh…

Read Article

Winter Weather Safety

Winter has reared its head, and while sitting by the fire and drinking a warm beverage sounds great to us parents, most kids want to be out playing in the snow and cold. Following some basic tips can prevent the most common child winter inj…

Read Article

To 2011!

Happy New Year! It’s hard to believe that we are closing the door on 2010 and welcoming in 2011. Doesn’t it seem like not so long ago we were concerned about what the year 2000 would bring (remember Y2K?) and now, here we are having completed the…

Read Article

It’s a Mom Thing

  There are certain times that I truly feel like a mom.  Catching myself wiping food from my daughterâ’s face with just my finger and thumb right before she entered school was one of those moments.  Carrying a large purse that is frequently loa…

Read Article

Knowing The Basics for Good Oral Hygiene

     Ever heard the old adage, ‘Looks can be deceiving?’ I often am told by others what a pretty, white smile I have. People ask if I use whiteners (which I never have) and comment on how straight my smile is (thanks to those years in braces). Wh…

Read Article

Teaching Children about Special Needs

One of my closest friends recently adopted a little girl with cerebral palsy. Another dear friend of ours, an adult, also has C.P., but a much milder version. My children have been around friends and family with disabilities for years, but this m…

Read Article

Post Christmas Shopping

I’ve been taking some time offline to spend the holidays with my family, but I wanted to pop in to give you all a few of my post-holiday shopping tricks and tips.  If you read my post-Halloween blog entry, some of this will sound familiar.  🙂 My…

Read Article

‘Twas the Night Before Christmas

 And all through the house The Sarver girls were stirring but hopefully, not a mouse!   The festivities planned, presents bought, Tori and Ally were peeking Hoping to not get caught.   What a month it had been with so much to do, The Nutcracker…

Read Article

Being a Kid Again

  My kids enjoyed opening a few early Christmas gifts over the weekend.  Thatâ’s how I found myself on the floor playing with Trio blocks, Legos, and other fun new toys.  As I did, I thought about how being a parent definitely provides one with…

Read Article

Opportunities

     Opportunities. They are everywhere. Do you see them? Are you listening? Are you seizing what’s right in front of you?     With only 4 days left before Christmas, most of us seem to be scrambling around. Whether it’s finding that one last toy…

Read Article

5 Great Clutter Free Gifts for Kids in KC

The Holidays are upon us and, if you’re like me, you may find that space is limited and toys are not. If you’re still looking for ideas, or in need of suggestions for relatives who shop for your kids, consider some of these faves: Memberships! …

Read Article

‘Tis the Season to Treat Others with Kindness

Did you brave the mall/Target/anywhere outside your home this weekend?  It was a ZOO out there…so many people out and about finishing (or maybe starting) their Christmas shopping.  It can be exhausting to deal with the packed parking lots, long…

Read Article

You Can Make Money While Spending It….Really!

In true penny pinching fashion, I am always trying to find any way I can to shave a few extra bucks off of just about ANYTHING I purchase.  So, if I think I’ll find a better deal next week – I will wait.  Or, I’ll take an extra 5 minutes to print…

Read Article

To Volunteer…

 Or not. That is the question. Know that as I write this post, I am in the middle of planning the 3rd grade Christmas party for next week (I am one of the two room moms) and getting together the gifts for the staff at school (I am the co-chair…

Read Article

One Week Till Christmas: 2010

It’s the last week before Christmas! Discover the best family fun Kansas City has to offer for the holiday week. Visit Santa, go on a light-seeing tour, enjoy a holiday film, visit the Fairy Princess, or marvel at the talent of the best mus…

Read Article

Baby’s First Shoes

Once your little one begins to toddle around outdoors and in public places, it’s time to buy the first pair of “real” shoes. Shoes protect little feet outdoors and on hazardous surfaces.

Read Article

To Regift or Not to Regift…

  That is a question I ask myself a lot this time of year.       Some situations seem perfectly okay to me to give a gift someone has given me.  For example, if Iâ’ve been given something as part of a large group gift exchange (i.e. it wasn’t p…

Read Article

Breech Babies

Breech babies account for around 4 percent of full-term births. Although the causes of breech presentation are not fully known, the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists suggest they are more likely in some situations: if the…

Read Article

Family Traditions to Grow On

There is something special about family traditions. The comfort of belonging and sharing common memories with loved ones… traditions are a special way to strengthen families and create strong relationships.

Read Article

Finding the Right Pediatrician

The right pediatrician will keep your child healthy and you happy. The wrong pediatrician can wreak havoc on a new mom’s self-esteem. Follow this advice to find a doctor you can trust.

Read Article

All I Want for Christmas is Just ONE Boot…

December…. it’s the month that I, and many moms, seem to have a “love/hate” relationship with…. this month is overflowing with Holidays, Birthdays, Deadlines, a New Year fast approaching, unexpected illness, inclement weather, end of the Seme…

Read Article

Are You Done Christmas Shopping?

It’s one of those questions that seems to be asked a lot these days…”Are you done with Christmas shopping?”  But my question back is, “Really….are we ever done?”  Maybe it’s just me, and maybe it’s just a hazzard of being a deals blogger, but…

Read Article

Gift Ideas From the Heart (Not Your Wallet)

Here it is, December 9th.  That means that there are just 15 more shopping days until Christmas.  If your budget is already stretched as thin as it can go – but your list is still a mile long — there are some things you can do to give them somet…

Read Article

How to Get to Sesame Street

  I suppose you could say I was a bit of a Sesame Street fan as a child. In addition to watching the shows, one of my favorite books involved that â”loveable, furry, old Groverâ” as the Monster at the End of the Book. My sister and I even dres…

Read Article

Sharing The Christmas Story

     Finding the meaning about December 25th takes intentional thought and planning amid the culture of giving and receiving. It requires that we, as parents, decide what our December month will look like, or the culture will decide for us.     O…

Read Article

7 Tips for December Birthdays

Do you celebrate a December or Holiday Time Birthday in your family? Are you finding it a challenge to celebrate a birthday in the midst of Holiday Traditions? Discover 7 Tips for December Birthdays: Give Birthday Gifts. Avoid the urge to combin…

Read Article

Amazon.com…Shopper’s Best Friend!

I have posted here about my love of Amazon.com before (see THIS post for a long tutorial on how to get bang for your buck on Amazon).  But I feel that I must share again about Amazon.com because this time of year is the absolute BEST time to use …

Read Article

Santa’s Secret…. Revealed!

It’s here! The day you’ve all been waiting for! KC Parent is celebrating our 25th Anniversary with a GIGANTIC Giveaway for over 400 People at Union Station! Discover how YOU can win!

Read Article

Take Time for Hugs

 We carpool to school, which has proven to be a blessing time and time again. From not having to stand out in the cold every day after school to the great friends we’ve made, being a part of the carpool has been such a benefit and many times, …

Read Article

Christmas Lights in Kansas City

Enjoy Kansas City’s BEST Christmas Light displays! Bring some hot cocoa and warm cookies, the camera, and holiday music for some family fun driving through the most spectacular displays in town!

Read Article

Saving on Stuffing Your Stockings

I still can’t believe that Christmas is so close!  I am all done with my presents – just a few more stocking stuffers and I’ll be finished.  If you aren’t careful, you can really spend a lot filling those stockings with goodies.  Here are a few i…

Read Article

Counting Down to Christmas (A Few Times)

 Wow, itâ’s December already!  Did it sort of sneak up on you as well?   Â Are your decorations out and ready to go?  Or maybe youâ’re one of those who couldnâ’t resist and started trimming your tree and hanging your stockings well before Than…

Read Article

I Believe in Magic

 â”Stacy!â” I barked, â”What are you doing?┠ Stacy gave a guilty jump backward from my closet and looked at me. Â â”Nothing,â” she answered, but without the ring of truth. She didnâ’t need to tell me; I already knew what she was doing. In the …

Read Article

Bedwetting Fretting?

Potty training is one of the most challenging parenting jobs. Once your child is consistently dry during the day, you would assume nighttime dryness is right around the corner. But for many children, nighttime bedwetting, or nocturnal e…

Read Article

Get the HOT Toys for Less

It’s that time of year when retailers want us all to think about Christmas shopping, and the “Hot Toys of 2010” lists are being published left and right. Some of the hot items this year are Pillow Pets, LaLaLoopsy Dolls, Sing-a-Ma-Jigs, Squ…

Read Article

Online Schools

A decade ago, online schools or programs were virtually non-existent. If a student struggled in a public school setting, there were few options: tough it out, drop out of school or, in rare cases, complete a correspondence course.
Times hav…

Read Article

Can I Help?

  As my daughter is nearing  2 1/2, I am continuing to see her grow and change into the little person that she is. She is curious, loves to be outside, enjoys make-believe and everything princess, loves music and telling stories, and wants to …

Read Article

What Moms Want for Christmas

Christmas is upon us and, like most moms I know, my thoughts have been on family traditions and celebrations, and gifts for my children and loved ones. Recently my husband was asking me for ideas for gifts as he’s planning to take our girls out o…

Read Article

Cyber Monday can be Cyber FunDay!

I posted last week about being a Black Friday scrooge, but Cyber Monday is a WHOLE different ball game!  I absolutely love Cyber Monday…shopping online is so much more fun and easy and the deals can be even better when you add in discount codes…

Read Article

Tunes for the Season

 I just noticed that my past several blog posts have all begun with the letter “T” so I’m going to challenge myself to see how long I can keep it going!  Hope that everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving day with family and friends and stuff…

Read Article

Keeping Yourself Protected When Shopping On-Line

It is officially time to start that holiday shopping!  If you are one of the millions who will shop at home instead of braving the stores, you aren’t alone!   More people will actually shop on-line more this year than actually frequent the stores…

Read Article

How Things Are Different on Kid #2

     I’ve always heard that you get wiser with age, and in the area of parenting, this is no exception. Well, wiser, and maybe a little more relaxed as well.     Our son (second child) is nearing his 3 month mark, and life with him is already so …

Read Article

Stories for the Road…

  Recently, I had the pleasure of interviewing Priscilla Howe, Kansas City storyteller, for an upcoming KC Parent Magazine article. I LOVE interviewing storytellers because, well, not to be cliche… but they tell delightful stories!
  In wor…

Read Article

Bah Humbug…I’m a Black Friday Scrooge

Most people are pretty surprised to find out that I’m not a fan of Black Friday.  I mean, I have a blog devoted to bargain shopping…isn’t Black Friday the biggest day of the year for someone like me?  I guess it should be, but I have never real…

Read Article

Too Tired

 Well, I am beat. I had great intentions of writing my blog early in the week (and I even had a great topic-the fitness club at my girls’ school that I am not in favor of) but of course, time flies by and here it is already Thursday and I have…

Read Article

Ten Black Friday Shopping Tips

It is that much anticipated time of the year — Black Friday!  So, now that you’ve scanned the ads and found what you want to shop, you need to get prepared for the day.  Whether you are a seasoned pro or new to shopping Black Friday or Cyber Mon…

Read Article

Easing Nighttime Fears

 A recent conversation with my four year old required all of the persuasive power I possess.  The topic was vampires.  He insisted they were real and I, of course, was adamant that they donâ’t exist.   As you may guess, this conversation ha…

Read Article

6 By 6: Ready to Read!

6 By 6 is a literacy program that is promoted through the Johnson County Libraries. I was given some information regarding 6 By 6 at a story time that I took my 2 year old to. These 6 pre-reading skills to develop by six years encourage early lit…

Read Article

Hassle-Free Holiday Shopping

The holidays are supposed to be filled with love and good cheer, but the logistics of shopping for gifts, sending out cards, taking family trips and shipping packages can leave even the jolliest of people in a Scrooge-like mood.

Read Article

Take Your Child on a Date

Are you looking for creative ways to spend one-on-one time with your child? Consider starting a new tradition with monthly parent/child date nights. There is a lot of fun to be had in Kansas City!

Read Article

The Number One Pitfall of Bargain Hunting

I’ve been a bargain hunter for a while now and there are so many benefits to being a savvy shopper.  However, there is one big pitfall that I fall prey to more often than I’d like to admit.  And that is buying things I don’t need just because the…

Read Article

Paying It Forward During The Holidays on Any Budget

The economy has affected so many Americans – thousands even right here in the metro.  I can only imagine how hard the holidays are for them.  It seems that so many Americans are struggling financially that they can’t afford to help others.  Thre…

Read Article

Making Time for Friends

 Youâ’re busy. Iâ’m busy. We’re all busy. Sure, some seasons are busier than others, but letâ’s just accept it…Family life is busy!  Recently, I went over to a good friendâ’s house with my two younger children.  It had been months since weâ’d go…

Read Article

There’s No Place Like…Branson!

    This past weekend, my husband and I packed up the car and the kids and headed south for a memorable trip to Branson! We stayed at a place called StoneBridge Village and Resort, which was just outside the main strip. StoneBridge was w…

Read Article

Bring On Christmas… a Bit at a Time

I LOVE Christmas! The flavors, the decorations, the scents, planning and preparing for the many traditions. Over the years I’ve learned that not everyone shares my love of the holiday so much that they rejoice, as I do, when the Christmas trees l…

Read Article

‘Tis the Season

 Weâ’ve hit November and seem to have jumped straight from fall into the holiday season. Turn on the radio and you hear Christmas Carols, visit Starbucks and you can order a gingerbread latte. Itâ’s all well and good with me-Iâ’m knee-deep in our…

Read Article

Holiday Decorations Don’t Have to Be Expensive

It is officially November. In a few weeks, many people will start to decorate thier homes to get ready for the holiday season.  There is not reason to go over the top and purchase expensive decorations.  Here are some unique and expensive ideas t…

Read Article

Project Day is Fun!

 If youâ’re like me, you have several projects youâ’d like to do around your home.  Again, if youâ’re like me, you might have a hard time fitting them in around school schedules and caring for little ones.  My friend and I were recently joking ab…

Read Article

Use Your Resources

  If you’re a parent (and you probably are if you are reading this blog), you’ve probably asked yourself at least some of these questions from time to time: Why does my child act the way they do? What can I do to help them develop? How do I ha…

Read Article

A Road Warrior’s Family Survival Guide

A parent’s frequent and prolonged absences due to business travel can put enormous strain on a marriage and family unit as a whole. And such an arrangement is even more difficult when no extended family is nearby to help ease the burden.

Read Article

A Place to Call Home: Drumm Farm

Drumm is unique in the Kansas City metro area: a group foster-care facility that gives kids a permanent place to call home. The institute is now open to both boys and girls. Learn more about this amazing facility.

Read Article

Kids Help Kids Through Operation Christmas Child

Operation Christmas Child is a kids-helping-kids project of Samaritan’s Purse that uses simple gift-filled shoe boxes to let hurting children know that they are loved and not forgotten. This year alone, Operation Christmas Child will reach …

Read Article

Giving With Grace

For November, here are some titles about the nature of giving with grace. Simple stories that tell so much more than what is on the page. Share them with someone you love.

Read Article

C is for Cookie

That loveable blue barbarian, Cookie Monster, celebrates his birthday in November. In honor of his birthday, we’ve put together a list of great places around KC to get some yummy cookies. Me want cookies!

Read Article

Are You Raising Rude Eaters?

“Don’t talk with food in your mouth!” Like a broken record, my husband and I repeat this mantra to our children at every meal. Our hard and fast rule has caught on and the girls, ages 6 and 8, rarely talk until they have finished chewing. W…

Read Article

Encouraging Young Writers

Is your son or daughter on the road to becoming the next Stephen King or J.K. Rowling?
You can tell if your child has writing talent by looking for early traits of developing writers. They include a vivid imagination, good observation skil…

Read Article

Choosing The Right Computer

When buying computers for teenagers, keep in mind their specific ages and needs. Does a desktop or laptop make sense? What about a touch screen? From durability to ease of use, there are several things to consider:

Read Article

How to Save Big by Saving a Little

By carving out a little bit here and there, your savings will add up and your spending will go down…without your even feeling the crunch! Here are some tips on ways to save big by saving a little.

Read Article

Protecting Your Family from Influenza

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has posted influenza recommendations for the 2010-2011 season. According to the CDC, the flu shot or nasal mist “will protect against influenza A (H3N2) virus, influenza B virus and the 2…

Read Article

American Royal Rodeo

The American Royal began in Kansas City over 100 years ago. Now the Rodeo is a Kansas City Tradition families enjoy annually. Learn more about the rodeo, the museum, and how your family can participate in part of Kansas City history.

Read Article

Talkin’ and Watchin’ Turkeys

Burr Oak Woods is one of the largest nature centers in the area. With an animatronic Smoky Bear teaching children fire safety, a large aquarium of Missouri’s fresh water fish, snakes, turtles, toads and more–and wonderful hands-on educatio…

Read Article

Post Halloween Sales: More than Just Cheap Candy

Happy Halloween!!!  I hope everyone has a blast Trick-or-Treating tonight with your kiddos…mine can’t WAIT to haunt our neighborhood as a little princess bride and skeleton (or maybe Darth Vader…he hasn’t decided yet).  And as much fun as I’…

Read Article

Do I Really Have to Wear Tights

Do I really have to wear tights? Seriously, do I really have to wear a pair of green tights for Halloween? My kids love it when I wear a costume when I take them trick-or-treating on Halloween, but I just don’t know if I can do it this year. I…

Read Article

The Joke’s on Me!

 Itâ’s Halloween weekend which means there are tons of great events all over town, culminating with trick or treating on Sunday. Luckily, the girls are off school on Monday, so we can stay up late and enjoy!    Growing up in St. Louis…

Read Article

Make Your Holiday List Now…..And Check It Twice

The calendar says October 28th.  However, my brain reminds me that it is LESS than 60 days until Christmas (and even less than that for those of you who celebrate Hanukkah).  It also means that it is time to finalize your holiday budget and gift …

Read Article

A Child Friendly Home

 As my oldest daughter began to crawl, I began to babyproof the house.  Outlets were covered, breakables were put out of reach and of course, medicine and cleaning products were put in a safe place.   Â Fast forward nearly six years and I s…

Read Article

Kids Are Just Like Us

Kids Are Just Like Us   What is it about being small that makes children that much cuter than the rest of us “big” people? We can’t compete with a child’s high pitch voice, sweet little toes, creative imagination and cheesy smile. There’s no doub…

Read Article

Fort Scott, Kansas

Fort Scott is a pivotal point in the history of Bleeding Kansas and the Oregon and Santa Fe Trails. Spend a day learning the history and exploring this small Midwestern Town just 1-1 1/2 hours south of Kansas City.

Read Article

What I learned Riding a Rooftop Ferris Wheel

“Let’s go Mom! Please!,” my daughters begged as we stood atop the roof at the City Museum in St. Louis where a brightly lit ferris wheel was beckoning.
  My girls, ages 3 and 5, were begging to ride the ferris wheel on top of a 14 story building …

Read Article

Get The HOT Toys for Less

It is about that time when retailers want us all to start thinking about Christmas shopping and the “Hot Toys of 2010” lists are being published left and right.  Some of the hot items this year are Pillow Pets, LaLaLoopsy Dolls, Sing-a-Ma-Jigs, S…

Read Article

Family Friendly TV Shows?

 We donâ’t watch a lot of television. The girls may watch a show during the week (they like one called Fetch! With Ruff Ruffman on PBS) but the TV isnâ’t on during the day. After the girls go to bed, Ty and I put it on, but itâ’s mostly just back…

Read Article

My Biggest Clutter-Busting Secret

 Shhh, donâ’t tell my children.  I keep my biggest clutter-busting tip a secret from them.  Iâ’m sure itâ’s nothing new.  In fact, my mom has told me she used to do it when I was younger.  My biggest tip is to simply keep children out of most of …

Read Article

Cute and Easy Costumes for Kids

Need creative Halloween costume ideas? Discover directions to make a darling Cupcake Costume and Clever Robot costume for your kids, both excerpted from Cute and Easy Costumes for Kids by Emma Hardy.

Read Article

A Beautiful Reflection Into A Chaotic Reality

Seven weeks into life with two young children, I am trying to figure out how I ever thought I was busy with just one! We are experiencing what I would say is “typical” for parents going from one child to two. The busy truth we are facing now is t…

Read Article

Family Game Night… Graduating to Better Games

My girls love to play games… card games, board games, and good old-fashioned Hide and Seek, Tag, and the like. But, it seems for years we’ve been in the preschool game phase.
  It has been my observation that the best games for preschoolers are…

Read Article

Working Moms Guide to Savvy Shopping

I have officially been a working mom (again) for 3 months now and I feel I have gotten to the point where I have a good groove going both at work and at home.  Of course there are things that I still struggle to find time for (cleaning the house …

Read Article

A Very Special Birthday

 My sweet Ally turns 6 today. Typically, six isn’t one of those ages for a “big time” celebration. And I doubt anyone but me will be celebrating this 6th birthday in an extra-special way.  You see, ever since she was teeny-tiny, Ally, when…

Read Article

Healthy (Yet Inexpensive) After School Snack Ideas

As a mom, I work hard to ensure that my kids eat healthy.  I know that we don’t always hit our goal 100% of the time -but the point is that we are trying!  Here are a few simple, easy and CLEVER ideas to help your kids eat something that is good …

Read Article

Dinosaurs in Kansas City: Fall 2010

Embark on a Jurassic Journey your children will love! From Dinosaur Dining, to an amazing Larger than Life Dinosaur Exhibit, to parks and playgrounds with Dinosaurs, and Dino Rock ‘n Roll… we have it all! This is your Complete Guide to Di…

Read Article

Recharge to Serve

A few weekends ago, my husband and I watched the movie “Date Night” with Steve Carrell and Tina Fey. It was the story of a calculated couple with kids attempting to have a date night out, only to have mistaken identity take them on a wild journey…

Read Article

Travel Tips from My Daughter

We’ve found that autumn is our favorite time to travel. The weather is spectacular, the scenery is gorgeous (love driving through Missouri in the Fall!). And, most families are not traveling because kids are in school… so we manage to avoid the…

Read Article

Get Back in the Swing!

Beginning Monday October 11th, you will be able to shop for a good cause in Kansas City and beyond as part of “Back in the Swing” week.  For those of you who have not heard of this event, it is a week long fundraiser for breast cancer survivors p…

Read Article

The Greatest Gift

 In contemplating my blog topic for this week, I was tossing around two ideas when I received a CaringBridge notification that a page I follow had been updated. The page is that for a little girl who attended the same school as my girls and pa…

Read Article

Consignement Stores: Treasure Troves of Deals

It is so frustrating to purchase a new outfit for your sweet little infant, just to turn around and have them outgrow it right away.  It feels like every time you turn around, you have to purchase new clothes for them. This can can end up being a…

Read Article

How to Handle Little Miss or Mister Mismatch

 Every once in a while, I see a child dressed in such a ridiculous outfit that I canâ’t help but smile and even mention how much I like the outfit.  Do you know the kind of outfit I mean?  Fairy wings with a red plaid dress, bright pink and yel…

Read Article

Turn Your Kitchen Into A Pizza Parlor

As people continue to look for ways to save money, many are opting to eat in instead of going to restaurants or ordering take out. Instead of reaching for the phone the next time a pizza craving hits, why not try making one at home? It’s mo…

Read Article

The Fountains are Pink

Last year, I took my girls to visit many of the pink fountains in Kansas City, and I wrote about it in this blog space. This past weekend, we saw several of the fountains, dyed pink for Breast Cancer Awareness in October, and the pink reminded me…

Read Article

When Enough is Enough

I started couponing and really bargain hunting about 2 years ago.  And for the first 6 months I was on a ROLL getting bargains.  I was snapping up things at a fraction of their regular prices left and right.  Everytime there was a good deal to be…

Read Article

These are a Few of My Favorite Things

 Each Thursday is “blog day” in my world. I usually spend a part of my work day putting together my weekly blog post. For many reasons, Thursday is my favorite day of the week. I love that after Thursday, there is only one more work/school day…

Read Article

Puppetry Arts Institute

A great outing for all ages, the Puppetry Arts Institute has a wide array of activities for your family, including performances, a museum, workshops and even birthday parties.

Read Article

Getting Kids to Care About Current Events

November 2 is Election Day! This is a perfect opportunity for parents to introduce current events to their children. With proper oversight and some good ideas, families can make current events fun for kids, ultimately expanding their unders…

Read Article

Blogging 101

If you spend any time on the Internet, you are probably familiar with the world of blogging. You may be thinking of starting your own blog, and, as a blogger myself, I would definitely say, “Go for it!” But before you get started, here are …

Read Article

My Child Is a Bully?!

Bullying continues to haunt children throughout our country’s communities and schools. But what do you do if you find out your child is a bully?

Read Article

Air Ball

 I backed into the boysâ’ room, holding the steaming bowl in both hands. Lauraâ’s second grade class Halloween party was over, and cleanup duty fell to me and the other adults. I dumped the bowl full of water and dry ice into a sink and stood th…

Read Article

Banish Broken Bones

It’s a word that many younger mothers ignore, yet many older mothers cringe at the thought of it: Osteoporosis. This disease causes bones to become fragile and easily breakable. Women are four times more likely to develop osteoporosis than …

Read Article

I Love a Mystery Bookstore

“Not just a bookstore, it’s an experience!” reads the slogan of the I Love a Mystery Bookstore… and how true it is! The store, tucked in the shops of Mission, is a mystery lovers dream come true.

Read Article

Successful Parent – Teacher Conferences

It’s Parent – Teacher Conference Time across the metro. Everyone at the conference has the same goal; working together to ensure the best school experience for your child. Here are a few tips to make the most of this important event.

Read Article

It’s a Mystery! Book Reviews

Finished with the Percy Jackson series? Looking for a little suspense this month? We’re not simply talking stories about ghosts and goblins, we’re talking MYSTERIES. Throw these titles in the pile alongside The 39 Clues.

Read Article

Playing with Pumpkins

Jack-o-lanterns may have hollow heads, but pumpkins are chock-full of learning fun. Carve out time to plant these seeds of knowledge with your kids, inspired by pumpkins.

Read Article

Love & Logic

Ever overhear parents boasting of Love and Logic and wonder, “What is that?” Well, today is your lucky day! Love and Logic is a parenting behavior philosophy created in 1977 by Dr. Foster W. Cline and Jim Fay. Their method is still as popul…

Read Article

Frozen Yogurt Shops in Kansas City

Frozen yogurt is the treat of choice these days. So what are you waiting for? Grab your family or friends and enjoy some frozen yogurt today at some of these shops popping up all over KC.

Read Article

Questions about American Girl Dolls

I’m curious…Have you visited the new American Girl store?  I’ll admit, I was rather excited when I learned that an American Girl store was to open this fall.  It’s been open for nearly a month and I’ve yet to make a visit. My oldest daughter i…

Read Article

Fall Fun at Kansas City’s Parks

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 roasting!

Read Article

Nature Scavenger Hunt

Kids love scavenger hunts and there are many ways to play. You can create teams (mom with the boys, dad with the girls), you can participate as an entire family, you can take photos of the items you find (try not to disturb nature), you can…

Read Article

Meal Planning Ideas

With the start of school back in session, everyone is probably feeling the grind and rush of the dinner hour creeping back in. The end of summer means more schedules, soccer practice, homework, dance recitals, and anything else you might be able …

Read Article

Not “really” a Mommy Date

This weekend, our 3 year old chipped a tooth on the bathroom sink (she’s a climber and slipped on the stool as she was climbing up to brush her teeth – ironically).
 
Over the weekend, she was complaining about cold bothering her tooth, so on Mon…

Read Article

Entertaining Kids

We didn’t have much planned for today.  And that was okay because we all are still adjusting to the all-day-every-day routine of work and Kindergarten, so some down time was just what the doctor ordered.  But as we left lunch at Waldo Pizza (yum!…

Read Article

I’m Sorry, So Sorry

Conversation in our home on a recent morning: Ally-“Tori called me a name and I don’t know what it means.” Me–“What did she call you?” Ally-“Unpopular” Me-“Tori, did you call Ally unpopular?” Tori-“Yes” Me-“Why?” Tori-“Because she told me I was…

Read Article

Keep Your House Clean On a Tight Budget

I don’t know about you, but I despise having to waste our hard earned money on cleaning supplies – like toilet bowl cleaner.   Of course, I do try to stock up when I find a great deal, but I have heard so many great ideas about how to make your o…

Read Article

Sleepless Parents Unite!

Let’s commiserate, shall we? If your child or children all sleep soundly through the night, you’ll need to scoot on by as today’s post isn’t the place for you.  If you do happen to comment about how all your children have slept through the night …

Read Article

Small Hands Can Help

As much as I think I need to get accomplished in the day, there is only so much time in the day to do it. And while young children can actually sabotage those plans intentionally or unintentionally, involving them in what you’re doing may actuall…

Read Article

Project 54

Kansas City kid, Payne Walker, is working with TLC for Children and Families to collect 54 (or more) footballs for area youth. You can help Payne reach his goal. Here’s how:

Read Article

It’s Fun to Buy with a Group!

Have you heard of group buying power?  There are a bunch of new sites popping up that take advantage of group buying power to allow members to get restaurant, shopping, entertainment, spa deals, and more at a deep discount.  You simply MUST check…

Read Article

No Time for Birthdays

I don’t even know why parents bother with their own birthdays. Seriously, why do we even try to celebrate getting another year closer to retirement? It isn’t like we get these wonderful gifts from our kids (although those handmade cards are pre…

Read Article

Please Don’t Stop the Music

 We are a family that loves our music. My husband has a talent for music and can play the guitar and both girls have pretty good singing voices (and when asked what I play, I reply “the radio”-needless to say, my musical talents are lacking). …

Read Article

Helpful Tips for a Successful Yard Sale

It is fall — and it is a great time to clear out some of that clutter before you settle in for the winter!  Why not have a yard or garage sale?  This is a great way to get rid of those unwanted/unused items and bring in a little extra money.  By…

Read Article

Blame it on Mommy Brain

 I was halfway to my meeting when I realized I hadnâ’t brushed my teeth.  Nice.  Unfortunately, I do that kind of thing more often than Iâ’d like to admit.  In fact, Iâ’ve been suffering from â”Mommy Brainâ” for the past six years.  Â My first re…

Read Article

Healthy Pregnancy Tips for Expecting Moms

Pregnancy can be one of the most stressful times in a woman’s life. Am I doing everything I can for the health of my unborn baby? Can I do more to keep my body healthy and strong to house my child and prepare for the birth? Several local pr…

Read Article

Mommy Brain Drain Prevention Plan

Why do new moms often feel like absent-minded professors? And how do we prevent the frequent lament of motherhood that we’ve “lost our former selves” to bottles and blankets? Just as we must adjust with each new phase of life, be it prescho…

Read Article

Starting Solids: When is the Best Time?

How do you know exactly when to start your precious bundle on solids? The answer is … well, there is no correct answer. Each infant is unique, and there is no magical age. Pediatricians generally recommend waiting until the baby is at least…

Read Article

Cutting Back on Your Toddler’s Screen Time

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends children under two watch no television and that children two and older watch no more than one to two hours of television a day. Once I started letting Elliott watch television, I realized just h…

Read Article

Autumn in Kansas City: Indoor Fun

We often think of autumn as the season for crisp air, hiking in the woods, apple picking and pumpkin patches… but what’s a family to do when the clouds burst open for a fall storm? If you’re looking for great ways to celebrate Fall Family…

Read Article

Helpful Tips for Formal Pictures with Kids

  Taking formal pictures with babies and children is not a task for the faint at heart. Hopefully, you get some beautiful memories out of it that somehow only a photographer can capture, but reaching that end might require a fill up on Red Bul…

Read Article

They’re just Wheels

This weekend, a friend of mine posted something on Facebook that stirred my thoughts and emotions. She recently adopted a little girl with disabilities. On Saturday, they went to the local parade and she observed that the fact that her daughter w…

Read Article

Great Midwest Balloon Fest: Insider Tips

KC Parent Magazine is excited to be a Marquee Sponsor of the Great Midwest Balloon Fest 2010! This will be a wonderful family-friendly event for everyone and we have some insider tips so you can make the most of your experience!

Read Article

The Benefits of Waiting

Sometimes when you can’t afford (or choose not to use your money) to buy the latest/coolest gadget on the market, you can start to feel left behind.  My husband and I are really beginning to feel like the last people in America without smart phon…

Read Article

Hooray for Uniforms

 My girls wear uniforms to school and for this, I am thankful. I realized how thankful I am for uniforms this week when we had picture day. It was an out of uniform day which should have been easy. But in going through their summer clothes it …

Read Article

Where’s Snoopy?

To Celebrate the launch of KC Going Places Digital, we’re giving away TWO Pairs of Worlds of Fun Tickets every Friday in September! Play our “Where’s Snoopy?” Game for your chance to win!

Read Article

Our Journey To Financial Freedom – III

I shared with you our journey to Financial Freedom Journey I and II,  I last shared about my blog being born……. When I first started out, I figured I’d just share some deals that I found in and around Kansas city.  Making a cent doing so was the …

Read Article

What-Are-You-Waiting-For Wednesday

 I find it interesting that I donâ’t seem to get many things scratched off my to-do list, yet I always seem to be caught up on my friendsâ’ latest Facebook posts.  Odd, donâ’t you think?  In honor of those little things that have never quite m…

Read Article

Labor Day Sales and Savings!

  Here are a few sales/coupons that you can take advantage of over Labor Day weekend!  Enjoy this three-day break!  And oh yeah….GO K-STATE! **Get 20% off your Osh Kosh purchase this weekend or 20% off your Carter’s purchase with code LABORDAY…

Read Article

McSocks

 A couple of weeks ago we met some friends at McDonalds for lunch. Not my first choice, but as a before Kindergarten treat, Ally got to choose lunch and so McDonalds it was. Without even thinking, Ally put on her Crocs, which was well and good…

Read Article

Our Journey to Financial Freedom – Part II

So last week, I shared how our financial makeover began.  I left off by sharing that I had to begin a quest on how I could save money on our weekly grocery bill. I had always used coupons.  I would save $0.25 here and $2.00 there.  So, I wasn’t a…

Read Article

Meet KC Wolf

The Chiefs are having an incredible season and they’re going to the Playoffs for the first time since 2006! We recently interviewed the Chiefs Mascot, K.C. Wolf to get the inside scoop on his favorite things about Kansas City and great ad…

Read Article

Playing in the Pumpkin Patch

Playing in the Pumpkin Patch By Tisha Foley Fall is here and the area is brimming with fun activities: festivals, pumpkin patches, craft fairs, haunted houses, hayrides, Halloween parties and more. For my family, weekends quickly fill up …

Read Article

Birthday Freebies

Making great birthday memories isn’t about spending money. In fact, if you know where to go, birthdays can be completely free! Check out these great birthday freebies!

Read Article

A Season for Birds

Watching birds is a great family activity that gives a lifetime of enjoyment. Discover great places for bird watching in Kansas City and ideas to create feeders for your feathered friends.

Read Article

Branson at Christmas

Do you love holiday lights? Plan a visit to Branson through Dec. 31 and enjoy the cornucopia of holiday lights with your family.

Read Article

Lactose Intolerance Can Be Tolerable

Why is it some people can ingest foods containing lactose, while others are plagued by even a trace of it? The American Academy of Pediatrics says, “Lactose intolerance occurs in people who can’t digest lactose. Lactose is the sugar found i…

Read Article

A Day Full of Wonder

Sparking a lifelong love of learning through the power of play is the mission of Wonderscope Children’s Museum of Kansas City—and do they ever live up to their mission! We recently visited after not having been for awhile and I rediscovered…

Read Article

Serve so They See

Adults can have a huge impact on a child’s view of service. I grew up around people who freely gave their time to serve others, and it has undoubtedly affected my thoughts and attitudes about volunteering. Some of the ways I was introduced …

Read Article

Enchanting Excursions for Fairytale Fun

Fairytales and make believe… a world of enchantment and royalty–children love to pretend they are kings and queens, princes and princesses, and knights in shining armor combating fierce dragons. Take your child on an enchanting excursion t…

Read Article

Fun by the Bushels

Few things conjure up autumn’s enticing colors and scents like the season’s favorite fruit, the apple. Head outside to one of Kansas City’s fall gems—a local orchard or cider mill—and take home fresh-picked apples for bushels of homemade fa…

Read Article

Raising Your Tomboy

You won’t catch them wearing dresses or the color pink. Nor will you see them playing with dolls, holding pom-poms or splashing makeup on their cheeks. Instead, you’ll find these girls hanging with the guys, jumping on skateboards, playing …

Read Article

The Truth About Thyroid

The thyroid gland can be difficult to understand. You may be aware that you have a thyroid gland, but you may be unsure of its actual purpose. According to www.WebMD.com, the thyroid gland is what influences the majority of all metabolic pr…

Read Article

5 Great KC Candy Stores

Whether you’re looking for the perfect after dinner treat or a gift that’s sure to tingle the taste buds, we’ve rated our top local candy stores to make you sweet on Kansas City.

Read Article

Traveling Through KC

In addition to getting around by car, bike or foot, there are several creative alternatives for ways to travel out and about. Would your child enjoy traveling by trolley, train or even covered wagon?

Read Article

The Wild West in our Own Backyard

Mention St. Joseph, MO, and folks all around the world will think of Jesse James and the Pony Express. But there is much more to discover in this 1843-founded city just an hour north of Kansas City.

Read Article

Learning Contentment

As of today, I am still pregnant and waiting to meet our 2nd child and first son. Our doctor thought last Monday that he would probably make his appearance this past weekend. So we cleaned the house, did the laundry, double checked the hospital b…

Read Article

Just Keep Trying…

My daughters and I were watching Little House on the Prairie (one of our favorites), and Ma made new dresses for the girls.
  My five yr old asks, “Mom why don’t you make dresses for us?” “Well sweetheart, I don’t enjoy sewing and I’m not very g…

Read Article

Find Your Stock Up Price

One secret to savvy shopping is knowing when to really stock up on something.  Your “stock up price” for an item should be that magic price at which you will buy enough to last you for a while.  You want to wait for the price to hit rock bottom, …

Read Article

Dance Classes and Leotards

I have known this day was coming for about three-and-a-half years now, but I still wasn’t prepared when it finally arrived. As the father of two young sons, I was prepared for the start of football, baseball, basketball, soccer, and Cub Scouts (…

Read Article

Grade Responsibility

 I was at a meeting earlier in the week for library volunteers at my girlsâ’ school. During the meeting the principal was talking about privacy and the importance of keeping any student information we came across while in the library private. S…

Read Article

Our Journey to Financial Freedom – Part I

This morning, I becan to recall about how my husband and I have been working so hard on becoming financially stable over the past 30 months.  I recalled where we had been, what we’ve accomplished thus far as well as where we have yet to go.  It m…

Read Article

I Can’t Believe I Wasn’t the Last to Know!

A few months ago, Amy Hilbrich Davis of Inspiring Moms, mentioned Groupon to me while I interviewed her for an article.  I’m glad she did. Earlier this summer, I signed up for Groupon.  I started receiving emails of their daily deals.  One day th…

Read Article

Date Night in a Minivan

My husband and I are always looking for new date night ideas, so I thought I’d compose a list of our favorites and hope readers would share their favorites so we can collect new ideas: Murder Mystery Dinner Theater. Recently, we enjoyed an inter…

Read Article

Dinnertime Dilemma

A few weeks ago I went back to work full time.  I also (for some reason unknown to me) decided at that time to re-join Weight Watchers to lose these 10 pounds that  crept on in the last two years.  What has resulted is a major dinnertime dilemma …

Read Article

Motivated By Money

Although they did not know it until recently, I have given each of my children a weekly allowance. Since the day they were born, I have put five dollars a week into their savings accounts. I know this isn’t much, but I wanted to put a little so…

Read Article

Nickelodeon’s Story Time Live

This September, our favorite Nickelodeon Jr. characters are coming to Kansas City in an all new show for preschoolers! We, at KCParent.com, had an exclusive interview with the show Director Sam Scalamoni, who is father of the show’s two big…

Read Article

Different Anxieties

My husband and I are just 3 short weeks (really, maybe a little sooner than that) away from the birth of our second child. My doctor is anticipating end of August/first of September for this little guy to make his debut, so we are in serious “nes…

Read Article

Summer Birthdays vs. Winter Birthdays

   This weekend as we hosted a Birthday Party for my daughter… I got to thinking about the pros and cons of Summer Birthdays. I have three girls with a Summer, Fall, and Winter Birthday between them (our anniversary is in the Spring). From the …

Read Article

Barnum Award

In honor of one of the founders of The Greatest Show On Earth®, Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® announces the call for Kansas City-area nominations for The Barnum Award. The award honors the spirit of P.T. Barnum and his inspirational c…

Read Article

The Lazy Couponer

I am about to admit something to you all.  I have not clipped a coupon in over a month.  I have a huge stack of coupon inserts taunting me at all times, but I can’t get the motivation to sit down and go through them.  It has been a busy month, an…

Read Article

Heart Birthday

 Today we celebrate the 11th anniversary of my brother’s new heart. Friday, August 13, 1999 he received a heart transplant. I remember the events of that time as if it were just yesterday. My brother (Bud) had been on the transplant list for 1…

Read Article

Saving Money Doesn’t Take a Vacation When You Do

I recently had the chance to travel to New York City to attend a national blogging conference.   Now, I rarely travel – unless you count my 5 minute drive down the road to hit my local Target store.  And somehow, I imagine that probably doesn’t c…

Read Article

Parenthood Connects Us

Parenthood. It’s one of the most challenging, humbling, and absolutely rewarding journeys to travel through. And one beauty of parenthood is realizing that you’re not alone. My husband and I were out at The Legends this past weekend to catch the…

Read Article

Saving Money on Family Outings

We have had one of those weeks where we have been here, there, and everywhere around the city!  It was my last week as a stay-at-home-mom so I was trying to squeeze the life out of this summer before I start work and the kids go to school.  And m…

Read Article

Just Not Old Enough

As the new school year rapidly approaches, I find myself in a quandary. For the past three years, I have been lucky enough to have two different families who were willing to pick my boys up from school and watch them until I can pick them up. I…

Read Article

Back to School

 Itâ’s here-August has come and with it comes back-to-school and it always puts me in a little bit of a funk. I know education is important, but I just love summer! I miss my girls while they are in school and I donâ’t enjoy the fact that the sc…

Read Article

What is the Balance of Extracurricular Activities?

 I’ll admit it; the idea of entering a new stage life with our first school-age child is all but consuming my thoughts right now.  I know Iâ’m probably being a bit dramatic, but it just seems too soon!  Iâ’ve done quite a bit of reminiscing this …

Read Article

How Many Children Should You Have?

  With nearly 1 month left to go until our second child arrives, we are busy preparing for life with two. Getting his room ready, talking to the soon-to-be big sister (who just turned 2) about what all this means for her, discussing how our li…

Read Article

Extracurriculars: Choosing with Care

It’s time to start thinking about which after-school activities your child should sign up for. Soccer? Football? Chess club? Drama? Dance classes? Piano lessons? Art classes? With so many to choose from, how do you decide? –And are they wo…

Read Article

With Faith

A mother shares her story of adoption. Two young boys left hardships in Ethiopia to become members of a loving family in Kansas City.

Read Article

School Lunch or Sack Lunch?

As another school year begins, you may be wondering whether school lunches or sack lunches are a healthier option for your child. A KC mom evaluates the pros and cons.

Read Article

Managing the Mess

If you’ve been tiptoeing past your child’s bedroom door, afraid to peek inside, you’re ignoring one of the crucial steps in the back-to-school dance: getting your kids organized. You can certainly benefit from these timely tips from Kansas …

Read Article

Screamin’ Oaks Farm

Screamin’ Oaks Farm is a sweet little farm filled with big entertainment for children. My kids and I, along with a friend and her son, spent a fun afternoon in Tonganoxie learning about and interacting with many different animals.

Read Article

Bugs & Butterflies in Kansas City

From vibrant butterflies, to creepy crawly insects, to our favorite animated hive-keepers, and GIANT Bugs… Kansas City offers many great family outings for exploring and enjoying bugs & butterflies!

Read Article

Transitioning to Full Day School

It’s August and most area children will soon head back to school. For many children this is exciting, but for others, this time is scary. This might be especially true if your child is going to full day school for the first time.

Read Article

A Shortcut to School

Things aren’t like they were when I grew up, I mused as I kept vigil for Ian’s bus. Instead of being picked up by a bus at my driveway, I walked to and from school. At first, it was luxurious, intoxicating freedom and a chance to prove my indepen…

Read Article

5 Fantastic Ways to Savor Summer

Summer is coming to a close and school is starting. As you bid farewell to lazy days at the pool, relaxed bedtimes and freezers full of popsicles, revel in a few more of summer’s delights.

Read Article

Raise a Selfless Kid

After potty training, one of the hardest things to teach your children can be to think of others before themselves. Yet it is also one of the most important things parents can teach children. As they grow up, they need to learn to serve oth…

Read Article

You Want Fiber with That

Have you ever thought of fiber helping to “clean the cobwebs” out of the bowel system? Dr. Deb Winburn, with Overland Park’s Premier Pediatrics, explains “Soluble fiber (whole grains, fruits and vegetables) not only transport vital nutrient…

Read Article

Mini Savvy Shoppers

As parents we all know that we often hear our own words out of our kids’ mouths.  I have noticed lately that my bargain shopping habits are rubbing off on my kids!  First my mom reported that when she was in a store with my daughter and couldn’t …

Read Article

I Am Not Ready

I am not ready! Really, I am not ready and I am quickly running out of time. I can’t believe it is almost and I have done absolutely nothing to prepare. Seriously, where did this summer go?  
Like most teachers, who have the summer off, I al…

Read Article

Silly Craze

I grew up during the Cabbage Patch years. Somehow I ended up with one, but don’t remember if it was something I had to have or if I just got lucky. I’ve see the Tickle Me Elmo, Zhu Zhus, Beanie Babies and so many others come and go. The current S…

Read Article

Is Couponing Worth It?

There was recently an article posted on Yahoo Finance titled: 8 Reasons Why You Shouldn’t Use Coupons.  If you are someone who never uses coupons, these could be some of your reasons why you don’t.  Of course, those of us who use coupons disagree…

Read Article

Beating the Back to School Morning Blues

 I used to be a morning person.  Then, I had children.  Now, the thought of being anywhere before 9 or 10 a.m. makes me tired.  Iâ’ve loved that all summer weâ’ve only had to be somewhere â”earlyâ” a handful of times.  So, you can imagine it ma…

Read Article

Adapting To The Unexpected

It should go without saying that parenting is anything but predictable. Since I’m in the stage of having young children, I can really only speak from that vantage point. From routines to likes and dislikes, our kids are constantly evolving, and o…

Read Article

“After my meeting, Mom.”

Last week, we enjoyed visits to Kaleidoscope, the fountains at Crown Center, the new spraygrounds in Grandview, a class at Burr Oak Woods Nature Center, a summer movie, and multiple visits with friends. It was a super fun week, but it demanded a …

Read Article

It’s HOT! Stay Cool for Cheap!

In case you have been in some kind of air conditioning-induced coma and haven’t noticed…it’s HOT out there!  Here are some ideas for how to stay cool for FREE for cheap!  Cool off at one of Kansas City’s FREE spraygrounds!  You can find a lis…

Read Article

Book Signing Success

Have you ever been to a book signing? Have you ever been to an event were an author talks about his or her work and then signs copies of their book? I attended my first book signing last Saturday and I didn’t know what to expect. Do authors ta…

Read Article

What Would You Do?

 I’ve seen the following situation several times, and I’m not sure how to handle it. I’ll see a child or a group of children walking and a car pulls over, rolls down the window, says something to the kids and they get in the car. I am in my ca…

Read Article

An Empty Mailbox Is a Good Thing

If you are like me, you pick up your mail to find a mound of trash or junk mail and usually – nothing else!  One part of being frugal is not to waste.  This includes not wasting money, but also in other areas of your life.  Paper mail is already …

Read Article

Sometimes It’s Easy Being Green

 Around our house we dutifully recycle and usually take our reusable shopping bags to the grocery store.  We even started a little garden this year and have the tomatoes to prove it.  However, after being around some family members who are ext…

Read Article

The Value of an Allowance

Recently I was talking with a mom of 4 about how she and her husband were teaching their children the value of money. She had commented that her kids were fairly “money savvy”, and I wondered what they did to foster that. Among simply talking to …

Read Article

Taking Inventory

Back to School Sales are right around the corner and that means great bargains on art supplies, paper, and other materials… but, before shopping I like to “take inventory” and assess what we have and what we need. After reorganizing all the art…

Read Article

Back to School Shopping: How Savvy are You?

Yes, it’s only half way through July, but back-to-school deals are already happening in the stores!  Target has their back to school section in full swing and each week you are likely to find hot specials there and at other stores around town on …

Read Article

Surviving Scout Camp

Earlier this week, I spent three days and two nights at Cub Scout camp with my oldest son and eight of his best friends. As the Den Leader, I was pretty much required to be at camp full-time with the boys, but I was fortunate enough to have four…

Read Article

Nine, Nueve, Neuf, Nove

 No matter how you say it, slice it or dice it, there is no getting around the fact that my baby is turning 9! I am amazed at how the time has flown by. I can close my eyes and see her as a newborn, so tiny and bright-eyed and such an amazingl…

Read Article

Two Days in St. Louis

 We recently left St. Louis already talking about what weâ’d do the next time we visited.  I guess that means it was a successful trip!  In less than two full days, we visited The Magic House, the St. Louis Zoo, and the Gateway Arch.  We wer…

Read Article

Dressing Themselves

My girls LOVE to pick out their own outfits. They select accessories, shoes, socks… every detail must be “just so.” Sometimes that means tutus and tiaras (Daddy’s “favorite” for trips to the hardware store!), other days it means favorite t-shir…

Read Article

Frugal Frenzy: Finding the Time to Bargain Shop

Wouldn’t it be nice if all of us savvy shoppers just had unlimited time to hunt for deals?  Sadly, that is not the case, and bargain hunting can eat up a LOT of time if you let it. Whether we are dealing with a full time job, kids home for the su…

Read Article

Things That Go “Oklahoma City” in the Night

 One thing they need to put in all books for new parents is that you must stock up on batteries of all sizes. Never in my life I have used more “C” batteries than in my career as a mom. In addition to making sure you have an ample supply of ba…

Read Article

Am I Frugal…..or Just Cheap?

Many of us have recently joined the Frugal Revolution.  We are learning how to NOT be a “throw it away” society.  We know how to stretch our dollars, find deals and make do with what we have.  There are still, however, those who still are cheap. …

Read Article

The New Kansas Texting Law

Have you heard about the new Senate Bill 300 that Governor Parkinson signed into law? The new law “prohibits the reading, writing and sending of Text messages while driving,” and teen drivers in Kansas will be required to wear protective equipmen…

Read Article

Target Toy Clearance 101

Target’s summer toy clearance is right around the corner, so I wanted to share with you a “tutorial” on what the toy clearance is all about and how to make the most of it to score some cheap toys!!  It’s pretty lengthy, but hopefully full of valu…

Read Article

Silver Linings

It was the Best of Times. It was the Worst of Times. This pretty much describes our 4th of July weekend. Our family loves holidays as much, or more, than the next person. What’s not to love about the 4th? Celebrating our Independence with firewor…

Read Article

Changing Fourth of July Traditions

Every Fourth of July, my sister-in-law invites each of her brothers and sisters and their families over for a cookout. Once the sun goes down, we head out for the local fireworks display. This works out great because they have a swimming pool in…

Read Article

Addressing Adults

What do your children call other adults? As a child we always referred to another adult by the appropriate title and then last name (Mr. Smith, Mrs. Block, etc). We were taught that this was the proper way to address an adult, with the only excep…

Read Article

Tips to Save at the Grocery Store

Let’s face it, you have to eat.  Your family needs to eat.  However, you actually can follow a few tips to help save even more money when you shop.   Shop coupons with sales.  This is the most obvious and actually where I come in.  It is simple t…

Read Article

Get Reacquainted with Sleep

Sleep has become far too unfamiliar to many local moms. Busy moms often do not make getting a good night’s rest a priority, resulting in negative physical, mental and emotional responses. Dr. Kathy Hauptmann, M.D. is a local pediatrician as…

Read Article

Silly Books

Hearing a child laugh is a gift. Hearing a child tell a joke is hilarious! Check out these books for some serious laughter.

Read Article

How Facebook Is Changing College Applications

The college application process: miles of essays to write, transcripts to request, colleges to visit, recommendation letters to collect and decisions to make. Add something new to that process: protecting and updating your Facebook profile….

Read Article

Jumping off at the National Frontier Trails Museum

Take your family back to a time when it took five months to travel 2,000 miles to reach the “Pacific country.” Embark on an adventure at the National Frontier Trails Museum in Independence, MO, the “jumping off” point for more than 250,000 …

Read Article

S’Mores, Anyone?

When families tighten their budgets, often one of the first things they forgo is the family vacation. Who can afford a lavish resort or a high-priced amusement park?

Read Article

Texting Your Teen: Are You in the Loop?

Today’s teens are busy texting instead; typing messages not only to friends, but parents, too. Keeping in touch has never been easier for parents and their teens, but is a mobile parent-teen relationship really a good thing?

Read Article

Seeing Our Parents As People

Somewhere between the teen years and becoming a young adult, my view of who my parents were changed. It wasn’t necessarily drastic, and I’m not implying that all these years they were somehow different than who I now knew them to be. However, whe…

Read Article

Are Couponers “Ripping Stores Off”?

I was recently perusing an internet bulletin board and saw a thread in which retail employees were complaining about couponers.  They were saying things like, “These people are just trying to rip the store off” or “They are working the system and…

Read Article

Hello Muddah, Hello Faddah

This week was spent at girl scout camp. Here are some of the lessons I learned throughout the week:   If, for planning purposes, you’d like to know when the hottest days of the summer in 2011 will be, just check with me to see when we are going …

Read Article

Party on the Prairie

Little House on the Prairie: The Musical is FINALLY here in Kansas City! We’ve been anticipating the show for MONTHS and my girls and I were thrilled to see Laura, Mary, Carrie, Ma, Pa, and of course, Nellie, on stage!
   The entire evening is fi…

Read Article

Peer Into Your Crystal Ball

It seems like every time you turn around, something needs replace or repaired.  Our minivan recently needed new tires.  Our pickup may need to be replaced in a few years.  The house needs painting soon.  The list goes on and one.  The good thing…

Read Article

Handling Those Long Days

 Some days are longer than others.  Of course, they all are made up of 24 hours, but there are days when those hours move oh, so very slowly.  Recently, one of our summer days was a long one.  Between the hot weather and children who woke up o…

Read Article

Outdoor Summer Theatre and Children

  This week is the opening of Little House on the Prairie: The Musical at Starlight AND Annie at Theatre in the Park! Our family has been looking forward to both events for months. Over the years, we’ve learned some tricks to help create a fun …

Read Article

Baseball and Father’s Day

This past week was supposed to be a busy baseball week for my family. We were supposed to have baseball practice last Saturday, which was rained out. We did get practice in on Monday, but our Tuesday night game was rained out. The game was res…

Read Article

A Lesson From Our American Girl Trip

 Last week my mom and I took the girls to the American Girl Place in Chicago. My mom has been planning this trip since she first found out I was having a girl, almost nine years ago. I figured it was time to go as both girls are at the perfect…

Read Article

Go Ahead. SPLURGE!

On June 7th, we celebrated our 7th wedding anniversary.  Now, we usually are very low key when it comes to things like this – being frugal minded like I am.  So, it is normally dinner in, giving one another a loving card and watching our wedding …

Read Article

Thoughts on Swimming with My Children

 On a recent family trip, we were blessed to wake up to a beautiful day of sunshine.  The temperature was about 70 degrees and there was a cool breeze.  It was the perfect weather to enjoy spending time outside hiking or visiting the park.  It…

Read Article

Get Crafting for Father’s Day!

Father’s Day is right around the corner, and unless you are the type of person who is organized and knows exactly what you want to give Dad, there is a good chance that you’re wondering what kind of gifts to give.  For some reason, these days are…

Read Article

Summer Fun with Science

It’s possible to give kids a fun way to keep up with learning by providing engaging books that feature hands-on activities. Three new books from DK Publishing will help kids of all ages fill their summer with science fun.

Read Article

Our Baby Story: Worth the Wait

I know prayer works. There is nothing quite like the joy of answered prayer. Some would say the very best results are the quick answers, the ones you hardly finish asking before they are answered. But what about when the answer seems to nev…

Read Article

SPF and Your Baby

Do you miss the sun throughout the winter but in the summer months feel like you should live in a cave to protect your infant’s delicate skin from the sun? You are not alone in your frustration. A cave may not be necessary, but the American…

Read Article

The Great Diaper Debate

Diapers, whatever their shapes or stripes, are big business–to the tune of some 3,650 diaper changes a year per baby! So cloth or disposable? It pays to reframe the terms of the debate, deciding what the various trade-offs are worth for yo…

Read Article

Have your Second Baby First

You hear it all the time: “My second baby was so much easier than my first.” Veteran parents are more relaxed and prepared than newbies, and why not? They’ve been through it all before. We’d love to bottle that experience and sell it, but i…

Read Article

The Tiny Tot Tourist

Taking a 2-year-old or infant out for the day can be overwhelming, even if it’s good for them and good for mom. Discover Five family friendly outings for preschoolers in Kansas City!

Read Article

Bedtime Lament

I tuck my baby into bed and tell her tales in rhyme.
When it’s late, I know my fate:
“Please sing it one more time!”
“Once upon a time, many years ago,
three little pigs and Goldilocks watched a beanstalk grow.
Chicken Little saw skies fall whil…

Read Article

SIDS Prevention

SIDS is the number one cause of death among babies under 12 months, it is also important to know that we have a great resource in our own backyard. SIDS Resources, Inc., is a not-for-profit that provides free educational training as well as…

Read Article

Benefits of Breastfeeding

Choosing to breastfeed your baby is an intensely personal decision, a decision that should not be made without an understanding of the valuable benefits breast milk can provide for you and your infant. After all, the benefits don’t stop whe…

Read Article

Financial Priorities for New Parents

As life changes go, the birth of your first child is right up there with the most stressful financial times in a parent’s life. Excitement, worry and confusion make it difficult to focus your attention and know what to do first. I’ve watche…

Read Article

Happy Summer Feet

Exposed feet are a summer staple, but to maintain healthy feet local women should heed some simple advice to keep theirs pool party ready. Here are some tips from EverydayHealth.com for keeping your feet healthy this summer:

Read Article

Get Connected!

Living in this connected world has made using coupons and savvy shopping so much easier than it used to be!  Information is at your fingertips…all you have to do is USE it!  These are some of my favorite online resources (more than just the sta…

Read Article

The Saga of Skippy

 Two weeks ago, the girls came home from the park with their babysitter and announced, “We found a turtle!” As I have stated in the past, I’m not really a pet person, so I can’t say I was overjoyed to hear the news. I turned to see the aquisit…

Read Article

WAIT!? Didn’t I Already Pay That Bill?

I am sure it has happened to may of us.  You check that telephone bill to see the words “PAST DUE” at the bottom.  You just KNOW you paid it, and check your bank account.  Sure enough, you forgot to pay it.  So of course, you now owe the original…

Read Article

Making Play Dates Work

Most parents would agree that getting their child in on a few play dates with other kids is a socially beneficial experience.  I, too, would share this thought.  Especially since my child is our only right now, the exposure with other children, d…

Read Article

Father’s Day Ideas

From celebrating at the Zoo or a Royals Game, to wonderful homemade projects the kids can make, Kansas City Parent readers know how to make Dad feel special! Read these great ideas.

Read Article

I Fail the Mommy Pop Quiz

   Over the years, I’ve read a lot of articles and books on motherhood and parenting in general… and that only increases now that I work for a Parenting Magazine, but the one article I’ve never read is the one telling new moms that they should …

Read Article

Buyer Beware: When a Sale is not Really a Sale

We’ve all seen the ads in the paper or gotten an email from a retailer heralding a HUGE sale with prices “deeply discounted.”  I love a sale as much as anyone, but there are times when a sale doesn’t really mean a good deal.  Whether on purpose o…

Read Article

Star Light, Star Bright

 Last night we were driving home and I was contemplating what I was going to blog about. My older, Tori, was getting on my nerves with her incessant questioning and back talk, so I was putting together what I was going to say about dealing wit…

Read Article

Shaving Money Off Of Your Utility Bills

It is simple enough to find ways to save on the items you purchase at retailers such as grocery stores and drug stores.  Did you know you can even save on your utilities?  By making a few changes to your lifestyle, you can easily reign in some ex…

Read Article

A Change of Plans

Is it just me or have we had more than our fair share of rain? Okay, I won’t complain about it, however, I will mention that I was a tad disappointed that we had gray weather this weekend.
  On Sunday night, we decided to head out to the Kan…

Read Article

Focus

Focus They were talking soccerplay positionsand strategies,he’d knelt down next to hercreated a little world ofjust the two of themand their talk.He worked to balance coaching and fathering.She was ecstatic about the upcoming game, “Daddy! Daddy…

Read Article

Affirming Fathers: The Importance of Dads

Five o’clock is a magical hour at our house. The kids, settled from their naps, begin to linger near the garage entry. With the sudden grinding jolt of the garage door, the children stir in a mad rush of anticipation that could shame Pavlov…

Read Article

Bike Safety Rules

The arrival of summer means many families will be dusting off their bicycles. Before your children hop on and pedal off, know how you can help keep them safe.

Read Article

Zoos in Missouri and Kansas

Giraffes licking your hands as you feed them wafers, elephants painting masterpieces, sea lions splashing as they perform tricks, eagles soaring overhead, chimpanzees squealing–all of these memories can be yours with a trip to the zoo… all…

Read Article

Books on Trains

Trains taught my son his colors, his numbers and his love of all things mechanical. Start with the two classics Trains (by Byron Barton) and Freight Train (by Donald Crews). If you see signs of interest, feed the passion with these titles!

Read Article

Putting the Lid on Potty Talk

If you’re sighing in frustration while your child is laughing hysterically, it’s possible potty talk is to blame. Read on to find out how to help put an end to this common behavior.

Read Article

Marooned

“Be still, or no story,” I told the boys. Their freshly scrubbed faces looked up at me in anticipation as they settled down under their covers. I’ve loved stories since my father told bedtime stories to my brother and me when we were presch…

Read Article

Springfield, Missouri: Ozark Country

If you’re traveling South to Branson, Arkansas, or on the way to visit family… you may spend some time in Springfield, Missouri. Springfield boasts many great family-fun activities your kids will love!

Read Article

Year-Round Sports: Are They Worth Cheering For?

Football, hockey, basketball, soccer, baseball, swimming … does your child want to do them all? Say goodbye to mud pies and daydreaming eyes. Year-round sports are the norm for more and more of today’s families, rushing from one practice to…

Read Article

Worry Free Summer

Summer! School is out, schedules are free and the living is easy. Or is it? With a little prep work and a plan in place, you can schedule your summer the way it should be—worry free.

Read Article

Thank You United States Veterans!

“Day is done, gone the sun. From the lake, from the hills, from the sky….”
As I hear Taps played, tears well up.
I remember listening to the familiar military bugle call played six years ago, as my family and I attended the brick dedication c…

Read Article

Memorial Day: Remember and Honor

I’m sure that most of you are enjoying a lovely weekend with your friends and family right now…I am too!!  Memorial Day weekend is such a great way to kick off summer with a long weekend full of fun!  But amidst the fun and relaxation, lets al…

Read Article

It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year!

 Did you hear that sound? Itâ’s me, letting out a huge sigh of relief. The reason? School has ended and summer is here! I LOVE summer break-the relaxed pace, not being a slave to the school schedule, wondering if it is my day for carpool or if …

Read Article

Cash Really Is King

Our family started our Total Money Makeover journey in November, 2007.  The one thing that we first learned about was that paying for cash for as many things as possible was the way to go.  This was, of course, a new way of thinking.  After all, …

Read Article

FREE Summer Fun Ideas in Kansas City

KCParent.com is giving away a VIP Clifford Party, including a $100 Crown Center Gift Certificate and Prize Pack from Toy Time including a stuffed Clifford, Emily Elizabeth doll and 12 books! Enter our contest and learn about 10 more FREE Id…

Read Article

A Pedicure Only a Mom Could Love

 As I look at my feet, I have two thoughts.  One is that Iâ’m really glad my pedicure was free because itâ’s awful.  The other is that I love it.  I suppose that doesnâ’t make much sense unless youâ’re a mom.  You see there is part of me that l…

Read Article

Still can’t get enough of KC fun?

Get even more with our weekly eNewsletter—packed with can’t-miss events, exclusive giveaways, and local family fun. Join 51,000+ KC parents who already subscribe!

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.