KCKidsFun

On Saturday, we took the kids to Faulkner’s Ranch for the afternoon.  My son’s second grade class had a back-to-school outing there–and it was FUN!  I had never been to Faulkner’s Ranch, but I definitely plan on returning in October to pick some pumpkins from their pumpkin patch.

Located off I-470 on Raytown Road, the Ranch is family-owned and you can sure tell.  (You can see one of the Faulkners in the red t-shirt; each family member had one on which made it really nice when asking for help.)  You may remember Benjamin Ranch on I-435 at 87th Street–this is the same family, new location.

We gathered in a large-sized covered shelter, and no time was wasted herding the kids into 3 groups.  Each group rotated among various activities.  These included a hayride (you could see the pumpkins starting to grow–getting ready for picking) and a “petting zoo” which featured a bull, pony, rabbits and goats to name a few.  There was also cow milking and pony riding.  The kids loved it!

There was a beautiful barn where people could go to cool off and have a cookie or drink.  This space is also available for private parties, corporate events, etc.  Everything was so CLEAN!  And don’t you just love those horse swings made from old tires?!?  So fun!

We will definitely be going back to Faulkner’s Ranch.  I’ve never been to their pumpkin patch, but if it’s anything like their private events…then count me in!  And speaking of pumpkin patches, you’ll want to keep checking back for our annual Pumpkin Patch guide. It’s coming soon!

Now, this next set of pictures has absolutely NOTHING to do with Faulkner’s Ranch.  Or Kansas City Kid Activities.  But it is so stinkin’ funny!  A little background–now that our daughter has been with us for a full 6 months, she has the sibling rivalry thing down pat with our son.  They fight like cats and dogs and it is so funny!

Last night, I was presented with a small gift from my daughter–a single bloom from my tired, leggy impatiens.

Not one to be outdone, my son disappears and returns about 10 minutes later.  He runs straight to my room, leaving a trail of dirt in his wake.  And he gifts me with an uprooted begonia, tangled roots and all.  The kicker is that the plant came from the neighborhood-owned landscaping.

So, I am beginning my week with a begonia plant in a plastic cup, a bloom from my dying impatiens on the kitchen counter, and the knowledge that kids can be so darn cute.  And I am so lucky to have a son and a daughter who love me… have a good week!

FABULOUS FAMILY ACTIVITY!!!!! You won’t want to miss this–and, it’s for a good cause; all proceeds benefit Children’s TLC. What could be better? The activity is the 12th Annual Crown Center Pumpkin Patch, presented by KPMG. Saturday, October 11 is the date, with Sunday, October 12 being the rain date. The place–Crown Center Square, at 25th and Grand Blvd in KCMO. The time–10am until 4pm. (And don’t forget to wear your costume!!) Now, for the good stuff!!

The whole day will be packed with fun things to do, including a petting zoo, carnival booths, games, inflatables, concessions and live entertainment. And did I mention PUMPKINS? How about 30,000 pounds of them?!? There will be FREE admission and parking at Crown Center Square. At the event, tickets may be purchased for $0.50 each, and these can be used for pumpkins, games, etc.

Here’s the fantastic lineup of LOCAL talent:

• 10:00 am Miller-Marley Performers
• 12:00 pm Berkley Matthews
• 12:30 pm Costume Parade and Contest
• 1:00 pm The Doo Dads
• 2:00 pm Dino O’Dell
• 3:00 pm Oogles ‘n’ Googles

As previously mentioned, this day of family fun benefits one of KCKidsFun’s community partners, Children’s TLC. The mission of CTLC is to provide therapeutic and educational services for children with disabilities in an environment which fosters their independence and celebrates their successes. CTLC was established in Kansas City in 1947 and is located at 31st and Main Street. No child is denied services due to inablity to pay. That’s where WE come in–grab the family, head out to the Crown Center Pumpkin Patch, and support a great cause!!

If you are unable to make it down to Crown Center on the 11th, or, if you just can’t get your fill of pumpkins, check out our comprehensive listing of city-wide pumpkin patches. There’s lots to do in the next few weeks…don’t miss out!

The KC-metro’s best-kept secret (okay, so it really isn’t so secret to families in south Johnson County…) is ready to open on April 1, complete with a brand-new entryway.  Deanna Rose Farmstead, located in south Overland Park at 138th and Switzer, is the city’s premier petting zoo, nature environment, fishing pond, playground, pony ride place!  And did I say FREE admission?  I’ve easily spent 3-4 hours there with little ones in tow and it’s a blast.  I’d suggest taking along the following:  a good-sized handful of quarters to feed the assorted ducks, goats, fish, chickens, etc., a couple bucks for a  pony ride and/or a fishing pole and some worms, sunscreen, some snacks/drinks (there are also some concessions available for purchase) and your walking shoes!   

Your kids can pan for ‘gold’ and check out the new dairy barn.  You won’t want to miss the one-room schoolhouse, either.  There is playground equipment within the Farmstead, as well as a terrific playground just north of the parking lot.  Wear the kids out, I say!

Check the Links! on the right side of this page for additional info on Deanna Rose (i.e. hours of operation, directions).