How to Play with Your Kids

It's currently winter time here in Kansas City and for many of us, that means lots of indoor play for our kids. We know this can be challenging for moms who are also trying to balance work, other children or household responsibilities. We start to ask ourselves questions like: How engaged should we be with our kids during play? What kind of play is valuable? How important is independent play, and how do we encourage it? Here to help us with these questions today is Julie Gettings, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is co-owner of a private practice, KC PCIT.   Meet Julie Gettings Julie has worked with children and families for 25 years, 23 of those being at Children's Mercy Hospital. She is now co-owner of the local private practice KC PCIT. They treat children and families with a focus on evidence-based treatments including Parent-Child Interaction Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with Exposure and Response Prevention, SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions),Trauma-Focused CBT and other treatment modalities. Outside of her work, Julie is passionate about her which includes her two kids (ages 21 and 24) and her husband.  She loves helping parents find ways to build a positive relationship with their child that will allow them to stay connected even through the challenging years of tween, teen and beyond. Follow KC PIT on Instagram and Facebook, or visit their webpage. What We're Loving In Kansas City Get Nerfed Get Nerfed is the area's only Nerf Battle Arena and is the newest attraction designed for family fun and entertainment.  From open play to organized events, Get Nerfed is fun for all ages. Best of all, moms don't have to pick up all the darts! Kids get to pick their Nerf gun/equipment and play in a room full of obstacles. There's also an indoor play area with inflatables and other fun options for younger children. Megan's son, Gage, has not stopped talking about this place since they went! Rainbow of the Heartland This is a local favorite for open indoor play in Olathe! Take your kids to check out and play on all the incredible swing sets in the Rainbow show room.  There are also trampolines, a small basketball court, and picnic tables. Open play is available Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. The cost is $7.50 per child cash/check or $8.00 per child credit card. They offer punch cards – 5 Plays for $35 and 10 Plays for $65.  Follow on Facebook for other special offers or changes to open play times and dates! Check out our Indoor Play Guide for more fun ideas! Connect with Megan and Sarah We would love to hear from you! Send us an e-mail or find us on Instagram or Facebook!