Lee's Summit, MO February 2026

Lee’s Summit’s Premier Aesthetic Center

Where aging is OPTIONAL

Letter from the Publisher

When I think of February and Valentine’s Day, my mind doesn’t go to grand gestures or over-the-top celebrations. Instead, I think of the quiet beauty of small, thoughtful acts of love—the kind that feel personal, intentional, and sincere.

After the busyness and excess of December— with its packed calendars, overflowing tables, and endless gift lists—February feels like a deep breath. It’s calmer. Softer. A month that invites sweetness in both figurative and literal ways (chocolate absolutely counts). There’s a gentle romance to February, but it extends far beyond traditional Valentine’s Day expectations. It’s a time to notice the subtle ways love shows up in our lives.

This month is about celebrating love in all its forms: friendships that steady us, personal relationships that grow with us, our children who teach us daily, and the local business owners who pour their hearts into serving this community. Love isn’t limited to one day or one person—it’s woven into the everyday moments that connect us.

I encourage you to think beyond February 14 and make this a month of intentional kindness. Hold the door a little longer. Write the note. Support a local business. Do a good deed—not because it’s expected, but because it matters. And maybe even do it when no one is watching.

My husband and I rarely exchange flowers or candy on Valentine’s Day—but you can bet we surprise each other with them randomly and often, especially throughout February. Those unexpected moments always feel more meaningful. This year, I encourage you to try something new on February 14, but save the flowers and chocolate for a day when it isn’t expected. Sometimes the most powerful gestures are the quiet ones.

Here’s to a month of calm, connection, and celebrating everyone we love—near, far, and right here in our community.

With gratitude,

February 2026

PUBLISHER

Laura Paszkiewicz | laura@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Stephanie Williams | stephanie.williams@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Angela Broockerd, LeAnn Parker, Allison Swan

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Janie Jones

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Mary Albers

LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick

The Timeless Comfort and Joy of Chocolate

Chocolate holds a special place in our lives because it is both comforting and celebratory, familiar yet indulgent. From its rich aroma to its smooth, satisfying texture, chocolate has a way of turning small moments into something memorable. It is a treat that feels universal, enjoyed across generations and cultures, which makes it especially meaningful during Valentine’s Day. At its core, the holiday is about sharing kindness and appreciation, and chocolate offers a simple, family friendly way to do just that. Whether tucked into a lunchbox, shared after dinner, or gifted in a heart shaped box, it represents sweetness and thoughtfulness.

Beyond its emotional appeal, chocolate, especially dark chocolate, has notable health benefits when enjoyed in moderation. Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants called flavonoids, which can support heart health by improving blood flow and reducing inflammation. It also contains small amounts of magnesium and iron and may help boost mood by encouraging the release of feel good chemicals in the brain. Together, these qualities make chocolate more than just a treat. It is a small indulgence that brings joy, connection, and a little wellness into everyday life.

Visit A Thyme For Everything for all your chocolate gifting needs at 229B SE Main St in Lee’s Summit.

“Beyond its emotional appeal, chocolate, especially dark chocolate, has notable health benefits when enjoyed in moderation.”

ARTICLE BY ALLISON SWAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

WHEN CAKE BECOMES ART

Birdie James built a career baking wedding cakes so sculptural and striking they felt closer to art than dessert. Over the years, her work earned both national and international recognition, with designs shared and admired far beyond Kansas City.

“My own journey has been shaped by curiosity, creativity, and experience,” says James. “From childhood art classes to architectural photography trips in Kansas City and Chicago, from studying painters and textile patterns to learning the craft of wedding cakes from my beloved aunt, each experience enriched my perspective and shaped how I work. These influences ultimately led me to culinary school, and later, to launching my own wedding cake business. It was this combination of artistic foundation that inspired me to design the architecturally unique wedding cakes that have been liked and shared around the world.”

That artistic foundation became the lens through which she eventually viewed pastry, less as a recipe-driven task and more as a creative discipline.

“Every creative field, whether that be architecture, textiles, or the pastry arts, demands dedication, patience, and a willingness to learn. Baking is no different. To become a true baker or pastry

artist, you must master the fundamentals, study styles of other chefs, and immerse yourself in a wide range of techniques and ingredients from around the world.”

Success didn’t arrive overnight. James embraced every stage starting with the experimentation, the breakthroughs, and the inevitable setbacks, understanding that each challenge refined her skills and sharpened her vision. That mindset carried her through years of growth and recognition, and ultimately gave her the confidence to move on to new chapters when the time felt right.

Though she no longer bakes professionally, the lessons from that chapter continue to shape how she approaches life and creativity. Baking taught her to trust her instincts, take risks, and pursue what she wants with intention. It’s a philosophy she still carries forward, and one she’s eager to share with home bakers looking to elevate their own creations.

For those baking at home, James believes excellence begins with fundamentals. Precision matters more than many people realize, and one of the simplest upgrades a baker can make is swapping measuring cups for a kitchen scale.

“TO ANYONE CONSIDERING BAKING AS A CAREER, EMBRACE EVERY MOMENT OF THE JOURNEY. BE CURIOUS. EXPERIMENT BOLDLY.”

“Bake by weight. Use a kitchen scale for consistent results. Baking relies on precision, and measuring ingredients by volume, such as scooping flour, can lead to variations from one measurement to the next.”

Equally important is understanding your oven. Many baking frustrations stem not from recipes, but from uneven or inaccurate oven temperatures.

“Ensure your oven is level by placing a level on the oven rack and checking both diagonals. A level oven helps promote even

baking. It’s equally important to verify the temperature. Use an oven thermometer to confirm accuracy and identify any hot spots. This will help you anticipate areas where your baked goods may brown more quickly and allow you to adjust by rotating or repositioning your pan as needed. If your oven runs hot, compensate by lowering the temperature or reducing the baking time.”

James also encourages bakers to think beyond the clock. Paying attention to sensory cues can be far more reliable than baking times.

“Baking times should be treated as guidelines rather than strict rules. Use sensory cues to determine doneness: aroma is often the first indicator, followed by visual signs, such as golden edges.”

Learning to trust these cues builds confidence and leads to better outcomes over time, especially if baking becomes more than just a hobby.

“To anyone considering baking as a career, embrace every moment of the journey. Be curious. Experiment boldly. Celebrate your discoveries, learn from your mistakes, and never stop growing. Every cake you design, every flavor you perfect, and every challenge you overcome will shape you into the baker and the artist you aspire to be.”

Birdie James’s cakes may no longer be stacked in tiers at wedding receptions, but her influence remains in the lessons she shares, the inspiration she offers, and the reminder that creativity, when nurtured with patience and purpose, can take you further than you ever imagined.

Gooseberry and Elderflower Cake

VANILLA CHIFFON SPONGE

All ingredients should be at room temperature before proceeding.

• 85g egg yolks

• 34g sugar (1)

• 34g neutral oil

• 45g milk

• 1 tsp elderflower cordial/syrup

• 86g all-purpose flour

• 1g salt

• 138g egg whites

• 60g sugar (2)

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C) and prepare 2 5 or 6-inch round cake pans by lining the bottom with parchment paper. Note: Do NOT spray the sides of the cake pan.

2. In a bowl, whisk egg yolks, sugar (1), oil, milk, and elderflower cordial until smooth and pale.

3. Sift in the flour and fold until just combined.

4. In another bowl, you are going to make a meringue. Whip the egg whites to soft peaks, gradually adding sugar (2) until medium peaks form.

5. Fold the meringue into the yolk mixture in three additions, being careful not to deflate the batter.

6. Pour the batter evenly between the 2 pans and tap lightly to release any large air bubbles.

7. Bake for about 30 minutes, until golden and springy to the touch. Immediately invert on a wire rack to cool completely.

8. Once cool, run a knife through the edge to release the cake.

GOOSEBERRY COMPOTE

Gooseberries have a high level of pectin which helps create a thick, gel-like consistency.

• 400g gooseberries (fresh or frozen)

• 100g sugar (adjust to taste, tart berries may need additional sugar)

• 30ml water or apple juice (optional - mostly needed with using fresh berries)

• 1 tsp lemon juice

• 1 tsp vanilla

1. Place gooseberries, sugar, and optional liquid, in a saucepan.

2. Cook over medium-low heat until berries release juice and start to break down.

3. Stir in lemon juice and vanilla.

4. Blend the filling for a smooth finish.

5. Transfer to a bowl and let cool to room temp.

6. Cover with plastic wrap directly on the surface to prevent a skin from forming.

SWISS MERINGUE BUTTERCREAM

All ingredients should be at room temperature before proceeding.

• 150g egg whites

• 250g granulated sugar

• 450g unsalted butter, cut into large cubes

• 2 tsp elderflower cordial/syrup

• 1/2 tsp salt

1. Place egg whites and sugar in a heatproof bowl. Set over a saucepan (or bain-marie) of gently simmering water. Whisk constantly until the sugar is fully dissolved. I run the mixture between two fingers to test the mixture to ensure everything is dissolved--this should be smooth with no gritty texture.

2. Strain mixture through a sieve into a mixer bowl to remove any possible egg lumps.

3. Add your salt and whip on high speed until the bowl feels cool to the touch. You should have stiff, glossy peaks.

4. Reduce speed to medium and add butter a few cubes at a time. Allowing each piece to incorporate before adding the next. It may look curdled--keep mixing.

5. Once the mixture has come together, add your vanilla. Finish on low speed for 2 minutes to remove air bubbles. You can swap out the whip for a beater to remove even more air bubbles, but not necessary.

ASSEMBLE THE CAKE

Trim the top of the cake to an even height. Halve each cake horizontally to make four layers. Spread a generous layer of compote and and several dollops of buttercream between each sponge layer. Finish by spreading the buttercream over the top and sides of the cake, smoothing to finish. Best served at room temperature. Optional: mix in a little gooseberry compote into the buttercream and use this in between the layers.

Samantha Compton Senior Financial Advisor

Find meaning in your new season.

Life’s transitions are invitations to renewed purpose, contribution, and connection. What if retirement isn’t an ending but the start of a meaningful season? If you’ve wondered what it looks like to approach retirement with intention and invest in your legacy through thoughtful planning, we’d love to guide you. To start the conversation, book a call with Samantha today.

From Wise Wealth to Wealth Enhancement

A Local Wealth Manager With Deep Roots in Lee’s Summit Prioritizing Relationships

Over Transactions

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

In the heart of downtown Lee’s Summit sits a wealth management firm built on clarity, trust, and long standing relationships. The firm’s purpose is straightforward yet powerful: to help individuals and families achieve financial freedom so they can give, serve, and enjoy life with confidence.

That mission has guided the firm since 2007, when founder and president Stephen Stricklin opened Wise Wealth with a simple goal. He wanted to help individuals and families make work optional and design financial plans that supported not just retirement, but a meaningful life. Over time, that approach resonated. Clients stayed, referred friends, and built long term relationships grounded in trust and clarity.

That success did not go unnoticed. In November 2025, Wise Wealth entered a strategic partnership with Wealth Enhancement Group, one of the largest financial planning firms in the country with more than $130 billion in assets under management. Wealth Enhancement became the owner of the firm, while Stricklin retained leadership, control, and an ownership stake in the broader organization.

Today, the firm operates as the GSEL Team at Wealth Enhancement Group. GSEL stands for Give, Serve, Enjoy Life, a philosophy so central to the practice that it is federally trademarked. While the name on the door has evolved, the heart of the firm has not changed. The team remains locally based, locally led, and deeply invested in the Lee’s Summit community.

The partnership brings meaningful benefits. Clients now have access to expanded resources, deeper professional expertise, and a wider range of planning solutions. The team benefits from enhanced support and opportunities, and the community benefits from a local firm with national strength behind it.

Wealth management can feel intimidating, but the GSEL Team works hard to make it approachable. Their philosophy is grounded in a belief that financial planning should support life, not complicate

it. Every recommendation starts with understanding the client’s values, goals, and concerns. The firm is fully comprehensive, offering investment management, insurance based solutions, tax planning and preparation, legacy planning including wills and powers of attorney, Medicare guidance, and long-term care planning. Everything is coordinated so clients are not juggling advice from multiple sources.

Rather than offering one size fits all solutions, the team serves as fiduciaries, tailoring guidance to each stage of life. Young professionals may focus on building strong habits and managing growth.

Families often need help balancing competing priorities. Retirees want confidence that their income will last. In every case, the goal is the same. Clients should have a plan, understand the plan, and feel confident following it.

Trust is central to financial planning, and it is earned over time. The GSEL Team does not work on contracts or set end dates. They work with families across generations, before retirement, through retirement, and beyond. The focus is on relationships, not transactions.

CONTINUED >

That approach is reflected in the office itself. A sign on the wall reads, “Treat others the way you want to be treated.” It sets the tone. Clients are encouraged to ask questions, express uncertainty, and learn at their own pace.

Education is a core value. The firm operates under the principle of “First Wisdom, Then Wealth.” Clients are taught how their strategies work and why they matter. This includes addressing common misconceptions, such as the difference between average and real rates of return and the risks posed by the sequence of market returns.

Many people today share the same concerns. Will my income last through retirement? Will taxes erode what I have built? The GSEL Team addresses these challenges

with a straightforward philosophy. Protect the income. Grow the rest.

Using a simple three bucket planning approach, the firm helps clients reduce uncertainty and make confident decisions. With a clear plan in place, financial choices feel less stressful and more aligned with the life clients want to live.

For those seeking a local wealth manager with national resources and a down to earth approach, the GSEL Team at Wealth Enhancement Group offers something rare. Sophisticated planning, delivered with clarity, care, and a genuine commitment to the community they call home. Contact Wealth Enhancement at  816-246-WISE(9473) or gsel-info@wealthenhancement.com.

THE GIFT OF LETTER WRITING

“I INVITE YOU TO JOIN ME IN HANDWRITING A LETTER TO SOMEONE YOU CARE FOR THIS MONTH.”

There is a lost art in letter writing that I wish to hold onto. In this speedy world where anything can be done lickity-click, a handwritten letter takes time and shows thoughtfulness. Much like a fingerprint, a person's handwriting- as elegant or clumsy as it may be- is as much a piece of them as the color of their eyes or the sound of their voice. The handwriting of a loved one that has passed or the writing of a child that time has aged will forever be treasured because of who they are, not how beautiful the calligraphy.

I invite you to join me in handwriting a letter to someone you care for this month. It could be as short as a sentence, as practical as a favorite recipe, or as light-hearted as a joke. Whatever is written, write it in your own handwriting as a gift to be treasured by the person you give it to.

WAX SEALS

Since a handwritten letter is a gift then the envelope should be treated like wrapping one. Sealing a letter with a wax stamp is a beautiful way to turn a standard paper letter into the gift that it is.

SUPPLIES NEEDED

• Wax Sealing Stick

• Sealing Stamp

• Match or Lighter

HOW TO APPLY A WAX SEAL

1. Light the wick and hold the stick parallel to the work surface.

2. Let wax slowly drip into a coin sized circle onto the paper. It’s tempting to angle the stick down to increase the speed of drips but avoid this as pieces of soot will fall into the wax and discolor it.

3. Blow out the flame and set the stick aside.

4. Press the sealing stamp onto the melted wax. Hold for a few seconds before lifting away. If it sticks, gently rock the seal back and forth to release.

*Wax seals are able to be sent through the mail but you may consider an additional outer envelope to protect it from potential damage.

“A HANDWRITTEN LETTER TAKES TIME AND SHOWS THOUGHTFULNESS.”

DIS COVER THE VALAIS REGION OF SWITZERLAND, WHERE ALPINE TRAILS, THERMAL SPRINGS, AND LOCAL TRADITIONS CREATE RESTORATIVE TRAVEL.

AN ALPINE ESCAPE

In Switzerland’s Valais region, wellness and adventure are always part of the same itinerary. Morning could bring a high-alpine hike, afternoon a soak in mineral-rich springs, and evening a table set with traditional cuisine, always including delicious wine and cheese. For travelers, the best part will be finding the perfect balance between exploring the outdoors and relaxing with wellness-infused activities in the heart of the Swiss Alps.

A CAR-FREE ALPINE ADVENTURE IN ALETSCH ARENA

An easy train ride from Zurich lands visitors in the Aletsch Arena, a high-alpine region on the south side of the Bernese Alps, home to three villages: Riederalp, Bettmeralp, and Fiescheralp. Known for its ski slopes in winter and hiking in summer, the area is entirely car-free, making walking and local buses the main modes of transportation through its quaint chalet-lined streets.

One of the main attractions of the ski-in/ski-out area is the Aletsch Glacier, the longest glacier in the Alps. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the 12-mile glacier is visible from several vantage points, shaping every experience in the area.

WHERE TO STAY

ARTICLE BY GABI DE LA ROSA

Located in the heart of Bettmeralp, Hotel Panorama provides no-fuss accommodations steps away from the picturesque Chapel Maria Zum Schnee. The hotel’s restaurant offers delicious regional cuisine, including raclette paired with Swiss wine. A good bottle of Pinot Noir or Gamay is also easy to come by because the Valais region of Switzerland is one of the largest wine-producing areas in the country, with vineyards dotting the steep slopes of the Rhône Valley. In addition to wine and cheese, eating cholera, a covered vegetable pie invented in the region during the cholera epidemic, is a must.

WHAT TO DO

Begin at Viewpoint Moosfluh, the closest and lowest vantage point of the Aletsch Glacier. From there, trailheads lead to Villa Cassel, once the home of a British financier and now a museum focused on history and conservation. The hike passes through a thousand-yearold forest with views of both the glacier and the Matterhorn.

Walk over Goms Bridge, a nearly 1,000-foot-long suspension bridge that connects two hiking areas over the Rhône River. For a final look at the majestic glacier, take the cable car to Viewpoint Eggishorn. At nearly 10,000 feet above sea level, it offers panoramic views of the Matterhorn, Mont Blanc, Jungfraujoch, or the “Top of Europe,” and the most comprehensive view of the Aletsch Glacier.

HISTORY AND ALPS MEET IN MARTIGNY

A short train ride takes visitors to one of the largest cities in the Valais region of Switzerland. The city is a crossroads between Italy and France, with a history dating back to Roman times. Visitors can tour Roman ruins, including a well-preserved amphitheater, ancient settlements, and Roman baths.

WHERE TO STAY

Martigny Boutique Hotel is minutes from the train station and is one of the few establishments in the city employing people with disabilities. The light and bright hotel provides a comfortable base for exploring the city.

WHAT TO DO

Take the steepest funicular in the world, the Mont-Blanc Express, on a scenic ascent through the Alps. The funicular connects to a smaller train that leads to the Trient Valley on the French-Swiss border, where, at the top, a full day of activity begins. Hiking, biking, zip-lining, or traversing the Emosson Dam, which straddles France and Switzerland, are all options. The crystal clear blue waters of Emosson Lake are perfect for a picnic or a break between adventures.

Back in Martigny, Barryland, the only theme park in the world dedicated to St. Bernard dogs, offers a look at the history of the dog, bred by monks in the 17th century for alpine rescue work. The Barry Foundation, founded in 2005, continues to preserve the breed and educate visitors about it. Guests can watch the dogs train, play, and interact as they learn about their role in the region.

Roman influence remains visible across the city, including at Les Bains Publics at Hotel Borsari, where visitors can soak in cement wine barrels located in the hotel’s spa. The baths sit on the site of a former wine tank factory and offer a circuit of hot and cold pools in a historically inspired, wine-colored setting.

Stronger together: Wealth Enhancement welcomes Wise Wealth

Wealth Enhancement is proud to welcome Wise Wealth, a respected Registered Investment Advisor serving clients from Lee’s Summit and beyond With a mission of helping clients “Give, Serve, and Enjoy Life,” Wise Wealth is now known as the GSEL Team. Under the leadership of Stephen Stricklin, CFP®, CKA®, the GSEL Team is dedicated to providing education-based financial guidance

As part of Wealth Enhancement, the GSEL Team gains deeper resources, expanded capabilities, and the support of the Roundtable™ of financial professionals

Thanks to the shared services provided by Wealth Enhancement, the GSEL Team will be empowered to focus on what they do best: guiding families on a path that makes work optional

“

— Chuck F.

Date Night

AT HOME

THREE CREATIVE IDEAS TO CELEBRATE LOVE

ARTICLE BY BAILEY HALL

Not every date night needs to involve reservations or an elaborate itinerary. With a little creativity, you can create magical moments right at home. Whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day or just want to reconnect, here are three ideas for unforgettable at-home date nights.

Transform your backyard or balcony into a dreamy picnic spot! Spread out a cozy blanket, add a few fluffy pillows, and hang string lights or fairy lights for ambiance. A small fire pit or lanterns can also add a romantic glow.

Pack a picnic basket with finger foods and a bottle of wine or sparkling water. Don’t forget a decadent dessert like chocolate-dipped strawberries.

Lay back and stargaze, identifying constellations or making wishes on shooting stars. To make it extra romantic, bring a bluetooth speaker and play soft music.

Unleash your inner artists with one of these three fun and interactive dates. Grab some inexpensive canvases, brushes, and acrylic paints from the craft store. Don’t forget aprons or old clothes to protect against spills!

• Paint each other’s portraits for a mix of laughter and creativity.

• Work on a collaborative paintingeach person adds their own touch to a single canvas.

• Try a themed painting challenge, like recreating your favorite memory together.      Pair this date with a cheese platter and wine and don’t worry about being “good’ at painting - it’s all about enjoying the process together.

Start the day with love by turning breakfast into an indulgent experience. Prepare a tray with a DIY breakfast charcuterie board. Include mini pancakes, waffles, fresh fruit, yogurt, granola, bacon, and pastries. Add small bowls of toppings like syrup, Nutella, or whipped cream.

Mix up mimosas or serve coffee with flavored syrups and whipped cream for a café vibe. Then, snuggle up in bed and watch a favorite movie or TV series.

realty report

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS FEBRUARY 2026

events

FEBRUARY 7TH

Downtown Wine Walk 2026

City Hall 220 SE Green, Lee's Summit | 1:00 PM

Celebrate with your Galentines in Downtown Lee's Summit at our Wine Walk on Saturday, February 7th! Sip on exclusive wine tastings, snack on delicious bites, and enjoy special offers at local boutiques. Your $40 ticket includes everything you need for a fabulous afternoon. Visit downtownls.org/events/

FEBRUARY 12TH

Remembering Lee’s Summit at the History Museum

Lee's Summit History Museum at Bridge Space | 6:30 PM

The Lee’s Summit History Museum invites you to an evening where you will be lost in a world of stories and memories about Lee’s Summit. Come listen to stories from a group of Lee’s Summit’s finest.  leessummitmuseum.com/events-exhibits/

FEBRUARY 14TH

Kiss and Tail

The Kansas City Zoo | 6:00 PM

Celebrate love in the animal kingdom at Kiss & Tail, an adults-only night of all-new hilarious skits by Kansas City’s finest theater actors. Enjoy animal ambassador encounters, fascinating mating rituals, and complimentary Russell Stover chocolates. Choose shows at 6:00pm or 8:30pm, or upgrade to a VIP Aquarium dinner experience supporting Zoo conservation and wildlife protection. Tickets available online: kansascityzoo.org/event/kiss-and-tail

FEBRUARY 15TH

Galentine's Day Plant Party

Colonial Gardens | 12:00 PM

Love is blossoming at Colonial Gardens, and you're invited to our Galentine's Day Plant Party – an unforgettable celebration of friendship, flora, and fun! This free event is packed with delightful activities for you and your besties. For details visit  https://www.colonialgardenskc.com/colonial-gardens-events

FEBRUARY 21ST

KC Brew Fest

Union Station | 12:00 PM

KC Brew Fest returns to historic Union Station for an unforgettable celebration of craft beer. Sample unlimited pours from over 40 breweries featuring 100 beers, plus enjoy Kansas City’s best food trucks. Choose General Admission or Early Admission for rare and limited brews, and raise a glass during one of two lively tasting sessions. Learn more at kansascitybrewfest.com/

FEBRUARY 21ST

Mardi Gras Unmasked: 2026 Chamber Gala

The Pavilion at John Knox Village | 5:00 PM

This vibrant celebration, presented by Saint Luke's Surgicenter - Lee's Summit, will transport attendees straight to the heart of New Orleans, where dazzling décor, rich Mardi Gras traditions, and the soulful sounds of a live jazz band set the tone for an unforgettable evening. Guests will have the opportunity to bid on incredible items during our exciting live and silent auctions, featuring exclusive experiences, luxury packages, and one-of-a-kind treasures.

Helping Kids Navigate Social Pressure and Friendship Challenges

Friendships play a powerful, undeniably important role in a child’s emotional development. Along with those friendships, however, there is often associated social pressure. From wanting to fit in on the playground to coordinating group chats and figuring out which social group is the best match, kids face complex friendship dynamics at every age. Helping kids navigate social pressure is an important part of supporting their mental, emotional, and even physical health.

Why Social Pressure Feels So Big to Kids

Social pressure isn’t new to us as parents or for our kids, but the environment today amplifies that pressure. Peer expectations, academic demands, extracurricular activities, and digital communication all shape how children see themselves and their relationships. Learning how to cope with these pressures is a skill, and like any skill, it develops with guidance and practice. The good news is that you can help your kids at any age or stage.

Helping Kids Navigate Social Pressure in Elementary School

In elementary school, friendships are often fluid and centered around shared activities. While social challenges tend to be simpler at this age, they can still feel very big to a young child. Some common challenges children face now include:

• Feeling left out of games or groups

• Early experiences with teasing

• Difficulty sharing or taking turns

• Big emotions tied to being “best friends” Some tools you can use to assist kids to feel more in control include:

• Name the feelings. Help children put words to emotions, such as disappointment, frustration, or sadness.

• Practice social skills at home. Role-play scenarios kids face, including asking to join a game or responding to teasing.

• Normalize change. Explain that friendships can shift, and that doesn’t mean something is “wrong.”

• Encourage kindness over popularity. Focus on being a good friend, not on having the most friends.

At this stage, helping kids navigate social pressure often means building confidence and emotional vocabulary rather than solving the problem for them.

Middle School: Where Social Pressure Ramps Up

Middle school is a major transition for kids. Along with shifting hormones, social awareness increases, peer approval becomes more important, and comparisons often intensify. In grades six through eight, kids have a desire to fit in and may more often succumb to peer pressure. Group dynamics from elementary school shift and social media takes a bigger role in friendships. While a parent wants to allow children at this age to gain more autonomy, they often need you to guide them in the right direction. To do that:

• Listen more than you fix. This can be challenging to do, but sometimes

kids want validation and not solutions.

• Talk about boundaries. Reinforce that it’s okay to say no, even to friends.

• Discuss online behavior. Help kids understand that digital interactions can carry real emotional consequences.

• Highlight individuality. Reinforce strengths and interests outside peer approval. “Stay weird” is a daily send-off for some parents, and for good reason.

Middle schoolers benefit from knowing they have a safe place to talk—without judgment or immediate correction. They still need their parents, so let them know you’re there for them.

High School: Independence, Identity, and Intense Social Pressure

High school students are developing independence, figuring out their identity, and looking toward future goals, often while managing complex friendships and romantic relationships. As they maneuver the transition from childhood to young adult, they may experience:

• Social comparison and image pressure

• Academic and extracurricular competition

• Romantic relationships and breakups

• Fear of standing out or being excluded

Parents can continue to take an active role in helping kids navigate social pressure while giving them the space to find their own way. Some tools to try include:

• Shift from manager to coach. Ask guiding questions instead of giving directives. Let them know you’re on their side to help.

• Encourage healthy balance. Help teens prioritize sleep, downtime, and activities they genuinely enjoy.

• Talk openly about stress. Normalize that feeling overwhelmed doesn’t mean they’re failing.

• Watch for warning signs. Withdrawal, mood changes, or sudden behavior shifts may signal deeper stress that needs to be addressed. At this age, helping kids navigate social pressure includes empowering teens to trust their values while reminding them they’re not alone.

How Community Choice Pediatrics Can Support Your

Family

At Community Choice Pediatrics, we understand that social pressure and friendship challenges are part of growing up, but they shouldn’t overwhelm your child or family. If you’re concerned about how your child is handling social pressure, we encourage you to reach out. Early support can make a meaningful difference.

Healthier Together, Always.

Pediatric Behavioral Health Services Open!

Is your child struggling with big emotions, worries, or feeling down as the new school year approaches? You’re not alone — and help is here.

Our pediatric behavioral health team is now accepting new patients ages 5–17! We provide compassionate, evidence-based support for concerns like Anxiety, Depression, Emotional outbursts, School stress and more.

Let’s make sure your child feels confident and supported when the first bell rings. Early support can make a big difference.

Making a Difference in Lee’s Summit